cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The carcinogenicity prediction and battery selection (CPBS) method: a Bayesian approach.

Abstract Recently, a large number of relatively inexpensive in vitro short-term tests have been developed to help predict the carcinogenicity of chemicals. The carcinogenicity prediction and battery selection (CPBS) method utilizes the results of such short-term tests to screen for chemicals that are most likely to cause cancer. The method is an integrated approach for analyzing large, often sparsely filled, data bases containing short-term test results, which often have only marginal representation of known non-carcinogens. The CPBS method is developed for the purpose of (i) determining the reliability and predictive capability of individual and batteries of short-term tests, and (ii) developing a strategy for formulating and selecting optimally preferred batteries of short-term tests for screening chemicals for further testing. The term ‘optimally preferred’ connotes the best acceptable combination of tests in terms of trade-offs among the multiple attributes of each test and resulting battery (e.g., cost, sensitivity, specificity, etc.). The CPBS method consists of 5 major tasks: (1) data consolidation, (2) parameter estimation, (3) predictivity calculation, (4) battery selection and (5) risk assessment. Although there is a great need for more research and improvement, the CPBS method at its present stage should add an important method to the maze of the thousands of new chemicals that are introduced into drugs, foods, consumer goods and to the environment every year. This method should also provide an enhanced identification procedure for classifying chemicals more accurately as suspected carcinogens or non-carcinogens.
The influence of posterolateral rotatory instability on ACL reconstruction: comparison between isolated ACL reconstruction and ACL reconstruction combined with posterolateral corner reconstruction.

Background: The purpose of the present retrospective study was to evaluate the influence of posterolateral corner reconstruction on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in terms of anterior laxity and clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that the effects of combined ACL and posterolateral corner reconstruction would be less satisfactory than those of isolated ACL reconstruction in terms of anterior laxity and clinical outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively studied sixty-nine patients who underwent ACL reconstruction from February 2001 to December 2005. Forty-six patients underwent isolated ACL reconstruction (Group I), and twenty-three patients underwent combined ACL and posterolateral corner reconstruction (Group II). Clinical outcomes were determined from data obtained before surgery and at the time of the twenty-four-month follow-up examination. Results: Postoperatively, the mean side-to-side difference (and standard deviation) in anterior tibial translation, measured with a KT2000 arthrometer, was greater for Group I (2.2 ± 1.0 mm) than for Group II (1.6 ± 0.8 mm) (p = 0.031). Seven knees (15.2%) in Group I and two knees (8.7%) in Group II had grade-1 anterior translation. The mean Lysholm score was 93.2 in Group I and 90.1 in Group II (p = 0.392). Thirty-eight knees (82.6%) in Group I and twenty knees (87.0%) in Group II were classified as normal or nearly normal according to the International Knee Documentation Committee scoring system (p = 0.882). Conclusions: On the basis of the evaluation of ligamentous laxity with use of the KT2000 arthrometer, we observed that combined ACL and posterolateral corner reconstruction allows less anterior translation than isolated ACL reconstruction. However, we could not identify significant differences between the two groups in terms of functional outcomes. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The limiting rate of chelation of liver alcohol dehydrogenase.

Abstract The binding rates of two zinc-chelators, bipyridyl and pyrazole, to liver alcohol dehydrogenase have been studied by stopped-flow methods. The pseudo first-order rate constant for binding bipyridyl to liver alcohol dehydrogenase is 228 sec−1 at extrapolated infinite concentrations, while that for binding pyrazole to enzyme-NAD+ complex is 238 sec−1. From these data it is postulated that any coenzyme or substrate which binds to the zinc of LADH cannot be bound at a rate greater than 230 sec−1.
Disaster response: The University of Texas School of Nursing experience

Nurses comprise the largest group of health-care providers and should be key partners for any disaster response in their community. An often untapped resource in many communities is the contingent of nurse faculty, staff and students in schools of nursing across the country. In an effort to provide guidance on how schools and colleges of nursing link with their community and provide real-world experience for students, the present paper: (i) outlines how a Memorandum of Cooperation between the City of Austin and the University of Texas at Austin was created; and (ii) describes an example of how a school of nursing could become organized to respond to a community's call for help.
Melanoma vaccines: Prim and proper presentation

Two new clinically effective melanoma vaccines exploit improvements in the way tumor antigens can be ‘presented’ to the immune system (pages 321–327 and 328–332).
Sociocultural research contributions to alcohol studies: More apparent than real

B. Kissin and H. Begleiter, eds. Social Aspects of Alcoholism. The Biology of Alcoholism. Vol. 4. New York: Plenum Press, 1976. xxiv + 643 pp. List of contributors, contents of earlier volumes, cha...
Association Between Having a Caregiver and Clinical Outcomes 1 Year After Hospitalization for Cardiovascular Disease

Caregivers might represent an opportunity to improve cardiovascular disease outcomes, but prospective data are limited. We studied 3,188 consecutive patients (41% minority, 39% women) admitted to a university hospital medical cardiovascular service to evaluate the association between having a caregiver and rehospitalization/death at 1 year. The clinical outcomes at 1 year were documented using a hospital-based clinical information system supplemented by a standardized questionnaire. Co-morbidities were documented by hospital electronic record review. At baseline, 13% (n = 417) of the patients had a paid caregiver and 25% (n = 789) had only an informal caregiver. Having a caregiver was associated with rehospitalization or death at 1 year (odds ratio [OR] 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.45 to 1.95), which varied by paid (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.96 to 3.09) and informal (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.65) caregiver status. Having a caregiver was significantly (p 1, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or taking ≥9 prescriptions medications. The relation between caregiving and rehospitalization/death at 1 year was attenuated but remained significant after adjustment (paid, OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.26 to 2.12; and informal, OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.44). In conclusion, the risk of rehospitalization/death was significantly greater among cardiac patients with caregivers and was not fully explained by the presence of traditional co-morbidities. Systematic determination of having a caregiver might be a simple method to identify patients at a heightened risk of poor clinical outcomes.
Genetic Analysis of the First and Third Extracellular Loops of the C5a Receptor Reveals an Essential WXFG Motif in the First Loop

The extracellular loops of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) frequently contain binding sites for peptide ligands. However, the mechanism of receptor activation following ligand binding and the influence of the extracellular loops in other aspects of receptor function are poorly understood. Here we report a structure-function analysis of the first and third extracellular loops of the human C5a receptor, a GPCR that binds a 74-amino acid peptide ligand. Amino acid substitutions were randomly incorporated into each loop, and functional receptors were identified in yeast. The first extracellular loop contains a large number of positions that cannot tolerate amino acid substitutions, especially residues within the WXFG motif found in many rhodopsin-like GPCRs, yet disruption of these residues does not alter C5a binding affinity. These results demonstrate an unanticipated role for the first extracellular loop, and the WXFG motif in particular, in ligand-mediated activation of the C5a receptor. This motif likely serves a similar role in other GPCRs. The third extracellular loop, in contrast, contains far fewer preserved residues and appears to play a less essential role in receptor activation.
Space–time correlation of wave fields and intensities in dispersive media generated by random sources on a plane

The space–time correlation of a wave field in a deterministic dispersive medium generated by space–time fluctuations of a scalar disturbance, over the infinite source plane, governed by the Helmholtz equation is investigated. The method of analysis is the spectral representation theorem coupled with Cauchy’s solution of the Helmholtz equation by Fourier transforms. Two cases are studied in detail: lateral correlation and longitudinal correlation. It is shown that the lateral correlation is propagated unchanged even for a dispersive medium, thereby generalizing a previous result of Parrent [ J. Opt. Soc. Am.49, 787 ( 1959)], who dealt with nondispersive media. The longitudinal correlation function varies depending on the interaction of space and time spectra on the source plane. Numerical results are presented for the modulus of the longitudinal wave-field correlation function for both dispersive and nondispersive media. The corresponding intensity correlations are also evaluated for the case in which the space and time fluctuations on the source plane are jointly Gaussian random functions propagating into a dispersive medium as well as the case in which they are non-Gaussian.
Have we come a long way, baby?: women and smoking.

It was in the 60th year of my mother’s life, after she had smoked for four decades, that a routine chest x-ray changed everything. The doctor called to tell her, “There’s a spot on your lung.” Eleven months later, in the early spring of 1990, lung cancer claimed her as one of the 419,000 American casualties attributed to smoking (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 1993). The tobacco company marketing geniuses learned many years earlier how to lure women into their tobacco den. The “may be hazardous to your health” warnings on cigarette packages had been around for 25 years but were easily dismissed. Female consumers were reassured by the new improved low tar, ultra low tar, low nicotine, milder, mentholated, smoother tasting, filtered and “safer” cigarettes. There were stylish, feminine, slim brands of cigarettes marketed for weight control, sex appeal, sophistication, independence and empowerment. Their catchy slogans were everywhere, including You’ve come a long way, baby, It’s a woman’s thing and Find your voice (American Lung Association, 2009). So, my mother and her friends laughed and relaxed and smoked, oblivious to the cancer that patiently stalked her. By the time she died, lung cancer had surpassed breast cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and lung cancer mortality rates were climbing by 600 percent...a trend that continues today (CDC, 2009).
Defoliation of Centaurea solstitialis Stimulates Compensatory Growth and Intensifies Negative Effects on Neighbors

Efforts to arrest the spread of invasive weeds with herbivory may be hindered by weak effects of the herbivores or strong compensatory responses of the invaders. We conducted a greenhouse experiment to study the effects of defoliation and soil fungi on competition between the invasive weed Centaurea solstitialis and C. solstitialis and Avena barbata, a naturalized Eurasian annual grass, and Nassella pulchra, a native California bunchgrass. Surprisingly, considering the explosive invasion of grasslands by C. solstitialis, Avena and Nassella were strong competitors and reduced the invader’s biomass by 80.2% and 80.1% over all defoliation and soil fungicide treatments, respectively. However, our experiments were conducted in artificial environments where competition was probably accentuated. When fungicide was applied to the soil, the biomass of C. solstitialis was reduced in all treatment combinations, but reduction in the biomass of the invader had no corollary impact on the grasses. There was no overall effect of defoliation on the final biomass of C. solstitialis as the invader compensated fully for severe clipping. In fact, the directional trend of the clipping effect was +6.4% over all treatments after eight weeks. A significant neighbor × soil fungicide × clipping effect suggested that the compensatory response was the strongest without soil fungicide and when C. solstitialis was alone (+ 19%). Our key finding was that the compensatory response of C. solstitialis in all treatments was associated with an increase in the weed’s negative effects on Nassella and Avena – there was a significant decrease in the total biomass of both grasses and the reproductive biomass of Avena in pots with clipped C. solstitialis. Our results were obtained in controlled conditions that may have been conducive to compensatory growth, but they suggest the existence of mechanisms that may allow C. solstitialis, like other Centaurea species, to resist herbivory.
The Relationship Between Size of Shoot Apices and Morphological Features of Mature Leaves and Stems of Four Species of Angiosperm Trees

Abstract Shoot apex, leaf and stem growth parameters for four species of deciduous trees were measured. Only in elm was there a correlation between the size of shoot apical meristems and mature leaves. In ash, basswood and cottonwood there was no significant difference between size of shoot apices of sucker and canopy branches, despite significant differences in lamina size. In the sucker branches of all species studied there occurred an early, lateral expansion of the subapical region of the shoot apical meristem. This correlated well with the greater diameter of stem and pith regions of sucker branches. In addition, the season's annual ring of xylem was greater in basswood, cottonwood and elm. Diameters of vessel elements were greater in sucker than canopy branches in three of the four species. Total branch and internode and number of nodes per branch were significantly greater for sucker branches than canopy growth of all species studied. A hypothesis is proposed to explain the development of the very large surface area of leaves on sucker branches. This hypothesis is based on the position of sucker branches in relation to the root system and involves differences in water stress known to be present in all plants.
TREATMENT WITH GLYCEROL OF CEREBRAL ŒDEMA DUE TO ACUTE CEREBRAL INFARCTION

Abstract Thirty-six patients with 37 episodes of cerebral infarction and cerebral œdema were treated with either intravenous (1·2 g. per kg. body-weight) or oral (1·5 g. per kg. body-weight) glycerol. Seventeen other patients with œdema of the central nervous system from commonly accepted causes were also treated with glycerol to confirm its efficacy in reducing œdema. During treatment, mortality of the group with cerebral infarction was 11%, and all deaths were in patients with coma and quadriplegia when treatment was begun. Neurological improvement occurred in all others during and at the end of 4 days of treatment. Glycerol administration decreased cerebrospinal-fluid pressure without rebound. Oral or intravenous (10%) administration of glycerol was nontoxic and caused a diuresis even in patients with advanced cardiorenal disease.
Integration of nano-photonic devices for CMOS chip-to-chip optical I/O

This paper describes an optical interconnect solution based on a monolithic photonic CMOS architecture. A photonic CMOS process enables higher bandwidth and lower energy-per-bit for chip-to-chip optical I/O through integration of electro-optical polymer based modulators, silicon nitride waveguides and polycrystalline germanium (Ge) photodetectors in a CMOS logic process. Experimental results for both the photonic CMOS ring resonator modulators and Ge detectors demonstrate 40 Gb/s performance.
Rethinking Mendelssohn's Historicism: A Lesson from St. Paul

Despite the relative obscurity in which Mendelssohn's St. Paul has languished for most of its existence, few critics would deny the work's significance as a landmark in the emergence of compositional historicism in the nineteenth century., Premiered only a few years after Mendelssohn's revival of Bach's St. Matthew Passion, St. Paul seems an almost polemically thoroughgoing effort to carve out a place in contemporary composition for the musical language of Bach's long-neglected choral works. From the time of the oratorio's premiere, however, it was one of the cornerstones of this stylistic reclamation Mendelssohn's inclusion of chorales-that most trou-
Hormonal alteration of the response of the rat uterus to catecholamines

Abstract The influence of circulating ovarian hormones on the uterine response to catecholamines in the rat has been studied. Uterine smooth muscles from untreated ovariectomized rats, or from ovariectomized rats under the influence of progesterone, are relaxed by norepinephrine. This response is blocked by β-adrenergic blocking drugs. Samples taken from estrogen-dominated rat uteri, on the other hand, are usually stimulated by norepinephrine, a response which can be prevented by α-adrenergic blocking agents. Thus, the response of the rat uterus to norepinephrine appears to depend on a balance between α and β adrenergic receptors in the myometrium, and this balance is in turn regulated by the ovarian hormones.
Existence of critical modules of GK-dimension 2 over elliptic algebras

We show that over an elliptic algebra, critical modules of GelfandKirillov dimension 2 exist in all multiplicities (assuming the ground field is uncountable, algebraically closed). Geometrically, this shows that in a quantum plane there exist "irreducible curve" modules of all possible degrees.
QL-16COST EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS OF GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME THERAPIES

BACKGROUND: Standard of care for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) involves surgical resection plus chemoradiation. We recently published a survival model demonstrating personalized estimates of median survival that vary with patient-specific characteristics. We wished to build an econometric model to assess the costs of therapies for GBM. METHODS: Cost data from publicly available sources were used to construct a cost model based on our personalized predictor of GBM patient survival. We used the model to estimate median survival and cost of therapy for patients of various ages (40-90 years), Karnofsky Performance Scores (50-90), and extents of resection (0-100%). We analyzed surgery plus several adjuvant therapies (steroids, radiotherapy [XRT], temozolamide [TMZ], and XRT + TMZ). Cost effectiveness was calculated as cost per week of survival and cost per quality adjust life year (QALY). RESULTS: For surgery plus steroids, mean survival was 113 days (range 34-291), mean cost was $21,892 (range $15,167-23,782), mean cost per week of therapy was $1,614 (range $572-3,666), and mean cost/QALY was $130,149 (range $33,144-382,305). For surgery + XRT, mean survival was 155 days (range 46-399), mean cost was $35,017 (range $23,702-37,040), mean cost per week of therapy was $1,923 (range $552-4,283), and mean cost/QALY was $155,010 (range $32,009-446,611). For surgery + TMZ, mean survival was 184 days (range 48-476), mean cost was $58,732 (range $33,157-103,840), mean cost per week of therapy was $2,489 (range $1,527-5,440), and mean cost/QALY was $197,842 (range $88,472-472,753). For surgery + XRT + TMZ, mean survival was 253 days (range 76-653), mean cost was $82,018 (range $50,711-143,670), mean cost per week of therapy was $2,542 (range $1,541-4,695), and mean cost/QALY was $202,089 (range $89,283-489,670). CONCLUSION: Cost effectiveness of treatments for GBM is influenced by patient age, functional status, and extent of surgical resection. For many patients the estimated cost/QALY exceeds commonly-stated thresholds for cost-effective care, a finding that may inform future debate on GBM therapy.
Contraction and polymerization cooperate to assemble and close actomyosin rings around Xenopus oocyte wounds

Xenopus oocytes assemble an array of F-actin and myosin 2 around plasma membrane wounds. We analyzed this process in living oocytes using confocal time-lapse (four-dimensional) microscopy. Closure of wounds requires assembly and contraction of a classic “contractile ring” composed of F-actin and myosin 2. However, this ring works in concert with a 5–10-μm wide “zone” of localized actin and myosin 2 assembly. The zone forms before the ring and can be uncoupled from the ring by inhibition of cortical flow and contractility. However, contractility and the contractile ring are required for the stability and forward movement of the zone, as revealed by changes in zone dynamics after disruption of contractility and flow, or experimentally induced breakage of the contractile ring. We conclude that wound-induced contractile arrays are provided with their characteristic flexibility, speed, and strength by the combined input of two distinct components: a highly dynamic zone in which myosin 2 and actin preferentially assemble, and a stable contractile actomyosin ring.
Abstract 5283: Autophagy regulation of angiogenesis in human neuroblastoma

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Neuroblastoma is a progressive solid tumor in infants and children that originates from neural crest and it remains a clinical challenge to treat. It is a highly malignant tumor, in part, because angiogenesis is a key factor in tumor progression of neuroblastoma. We have previously identified that gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP)-receptor-mediated cell signaling is critical to its tumorigenicity. In this study, we hypothesized that increased autophagy via blockage of GRP receptor could potentially inhibit angiogenesis in human neuroblastomas. METHODS. Autophagic key molecular markers were detected with ATG5, Beclin-1 and LC3 antibodies. Phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR and S6R were detected by Western blotting. Angiogenesis were measured using tubule formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) grown on top of Matrigel Matrix Basement Membrane in vitro. They were also determined using a mouse model of the cornea pocket assay in vivo. Autophagy was determined by punctuate localization of GFP-LC3 fusion protein, and observed under a confocal fluorescence microscope in vitro. RESULTS. Levels of phospho-Akt, -mTOR and -S6R were increased in BE(2)-C cells treated with GRP in both time- as well as dose-dependent manner. However, the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway was inactivated in short-hairpin (sh) silenced targeted at GRP receptor in BE(2)-C cells when compared to control shLac cells, indicating that angiogenesis may be reduced. We also observed increased levels of ATG5, Beclin-1 and LC3 proteins, key autophagic mediators, in shGRP receptor-BE(2)-C cells when compared to controls (shLac cells). In particular, overexpression of ATG5 and Beclin-1 also significantly decreased tube formation on HUVECs when treated with exogenous GRP (100 nM). Consistent with the in vitro findings, treatment with GRP receptor antagonist (RC3095) showed a dramatically decrease in angiogenesis in a mouse model of the cornea pocket assay in vivo. CONCLUSIONS. Our results show that enhanced autophagy was associated with a downregulation of angiogenesis signaling pathways, and an increase in characteristic punctuate localization of GFP-LC3 as a marker for autophagy. A better understanding of how autophagic proteins can regulate the angiogenic process may lead to novel therapeutic strategies in the treatment of neuroblastomas or its vascular disorders. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5283. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5283
An autoregulatory loop controls peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α expression in muscle

Skeletal muscle adapts to chronic physical activity by inducing mitochondrial biogenesis and switching proportions of muscle fibers from type II to type I. Several major factors involved in this process have been identified, such as the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV), calcineurin A (CnA), and the transcriptional component peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α). Transgenic expression of PGC-1α recently has been shown to dramatically increase the content of type I muscle fibers in skeletal muscle, but the relationship between PGC-1α expression and the key components in calcium signaling is not clear. In this report, we show that the PGC-1α promoter is regulated by both CaMKIV and CnA activity. CaMKIV activates PGC-1α largely through the binding of cAMP response element-binding protein to the PGC-1α promoter. Moreover, we show that a positive feedback loop exists between PGC-1α and members of the myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) family of transcription factors. MEF2s bind to the PGC-1α promoter and activate it, predominantly when coactivated by PGC-1α. MEF2 activity is stimulated further by CnA signaling. These findings imply a unified pathway, integrating key regulators of calcium signaling with the transcriptional switch PGC-1α. Furthermore, these data suggest an autofeedback loop whereby the calcium-signaling pathway may result in a stable induction of PGC-1α, contributing to the relatively stable nature of muscle fiber-type determination.
A Novel Flow Bioreactor for In Vitro Microvascularization

Although the importance of fluid flow for proper vascular development and function in vivo is well recognized, microvascular formation in response to flow has not been well evaluated in a three-dimensional (3D) environment in vitro. In this study, we developed a novel 3D in vitro perfusion system that allows direct investigation of the effects of shear stress on the development of microvasculature in vitro. This system utilizes a 3D collagen gel for suspension of vascular cells and mesenchymal stem cells, through which flow is directly perfused. We characterized the flow conditions and demonstrate the impact of flow on the development of microvasculature using a coculture of endothelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells. With the unique ability to apply bulk flow through the collagen gels, and to estimate shear stress within the constructs, this perfusion system provides a flexible platform for developing a controllable biomimetic environment that can be adapted for a variety of investigations of microvascularization.
Landau theory of charge-density waves in transition-metal dichalcogenides

A Landau theory is proposed for charge-density waves (CDW) in transition-metal dichalcogenides with the charge density as an order parameter. The theory predicts the sequence of phases, normal-state---incommensurate-CDW---commensurate-CDW with decreasing temperature, separated by first-order phase transitions. The peaks in charge density lie at "lattice sites" of a hexagonal crystal and for the incommensurate case the theory predicts phononlike distortions of the CDW "lattice" as well as dislocations. Impurities pin the charge density wave, broaden the phase transitions, and stabilize the incommensurate state relative to the commensurate state.
Wound healing in response to keratorefractive surgery

Over one million Americans have undergone refractive keratoplasty since the introduction of radial keratotomy into the United States in 1978. There are now a number of alternative techniques available for reshaping the corneal surface to alter ocular refractive errors. Numerous technologic advances in the past decade now enable us to perform these procedures in a safer and more reliable fashion. The ability to control precisely the refractive outcome, however, continues to elude us and appears to be limited, in part, by interindividual variability in the wound healing response. Presently, we review the corneal wound healing response to various keratorefractive approaches and suggest some interventional strategies which might enable us to modulate more precisely our refractive results.
Precise diffraction efficiency measurements of large-area greater-than-99%-efficient dielectric gratings at the Littrow angle.

We have developed improved cavity-finesse methods for characterizing the diffraction efficiencies of large gratings at the Littrow angle. These methods include measuring cavity length with optical techniques, using a Michelson interferometer to calibrate piezoelectric transducer nonlinearities and angle-tuning procedures to confirm optimal alignment. We used these methods to characterize two 20 cm scale dielectric gratings. The values taken from across their surfaces collectively had means and standard deviations of μ=99.293% and σ=0.164% and μ=99.084% and σ=0.079%. The greatest efficiency observed at a single point on a grating was (99.577+/-0.002)%, which is also the most accurate measurement of the diffraction efficiency in the literature of which we are aware. These results prove that a high diffraction efficiency with low variation is achievable across large apertures for gratings. © 2009 Optical Society of America
Crystal structure analysis of sea lamprey hemoglobin at 2 Å resolution

Abstract The crystal structure of the predominant hemoglobin component of blood from the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus, has been determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. Crystals for this analysis were grown from cyanide methemoglobin V as crystal type D2. These crystals are in space group P212121 and have unit cell dimensions of a = 44.57 A , b = 96.62 A and c = 31.34 A . Isomorphous heavyatom derivatives were prepared by soaking crystals in solutions of Hg(CN)2, K2Hg(CNS)4 and KAu(CN)2. Diffracted intensities to as far as 2 A spacings were measured on a diffractometer. Phases were found by means of the isomorphous replacements and anomalous scattering, with supplementary information provided by the tangent formula. An atomic model was fitted to the final electron density map in a Richards optical comparator. The lamprey hemoglobin molecule is generally similar in structure to other globins, but differs in many details. Each molecule is in contact with ten neighboring molecules in the crystal lattice. The nature of the binding of the heavy atoms to lamprey hemoglobin has been interpreted.
Observations on the acquisition of library materials in the People's Rrepublic of China

Abstract The first “People to People” Library and Information Science Delegation to the People's Republic of China spent three weeks touring various types of libraries and presenting papers to Chinese colleagues. Although the size of the group (sixty-seven), logistics, time constraints, and language barriers combined to preclude much in-depth discussion, the rare chance for one-on-one conversations did occur. This information plus observation provides the basis for this report.
A Survey of Power Electronics Applications in Aerospace Technologies

The insertion of power electronics in aerospace technologies is becoming widespread. The application of semiconductor devices and electronic converters, as summarized in this paper, includes the International Space Station, satellite power system, and motor drives in 'more electric' technology applied to aircraft, starter/generators and reusable launch vehicles. Flywheels, servo systems embodying electromechanical actuation, and spacecraft on-board electric propulsion are discussed. Continued inroad by power electronics depends on resolving incompatibility of using variable frequency for 400 Hz-operated aircraft equipment. Dual-use electronic modules should reduce system development cost.
252 Ontogeny of VEGF, IGF-I, and GH in the Rat Retina, Vitreous and Serum

Background/Aim: Growth factors such as VEGF, IGF-I, and GH are implicated in retinal vascular development. Low serum IGF-I and high serum GH has been shown to be associated with ROP. The ocular compartments are protected by the blood-retinal barrier. We hypothesized that levels of growth factors in the ocular and systemic circulation are different and compartment-specific. We examine the ontogeny of VEGF, IGF-I and GH in rat retina, vitreous, and serum from birth (P0) to P21. Methods. Newborn rats (n=3 litters/group; 15 pups/litter) were sacrificed at P0, P7, P14 and P21. Retinal, vitreous and serum VEGF, IGF-I and GH levels were determined. Results: VEGF levels were 10-fold higher in the vitreous than serum at all stages of development. Vitreous and serum VEGF levels declined at P7, P14 and P21 (p<0.05 to p<0.001) compared to P0. In the retina, VEGF levels increased with highest concentrations at P21 (p<0.05 vs P0). IGF-I levels in the vitreous were comparable with serum levels and decreased from P7 through P21 (p<0.05) compared to P0. IGF-I levels in serum and retina increased with advancing postnatal age. Despite 4-fold higher IGF-I levels in the vitreous than retina at P0, equilibration was achieved at P21. GH levels in the vitreous were 10-fold lower than serum levels and were decreased at P14 and P21 (p<0.05 to p<0.001) compared to P0 and P7 in both compartments. GH levels in the retina remained unchanged from P0 through P21. Conclusions: The ontogenic patterns of vitreous VEGF and IGF-I during rat postnatal retinal development imply that the vitreous is a reservoir for these growth factors. VEGF, IGF-I and GH in the retina, vitreous and systemic circulation exhibit compartment-specific differences. These differences should be considered in conditions associated with retinal neovascularization, such as ROP.
Self-Disclosure and Physical Health: In Support of Curvilinearity:

Present evidence suggests that an individual's willingness to self-disclose personal information to others may be related to his physical health status. For 62 undergraduate students, significant c...
Properties of hybrids between Salmonella phage P22 and coliphage lambda.

The temperate bacteriophages P22 of Salmonella typhimurium and λ of Escherichia coli form viable hybrids in which the immunity, early control and DNA replication genes of P22 are substituted for the analogous λ genes. The specificity of the early control and DNA replication genes differs between P22 and λ; the immunity of the hybrid is identical with that of the lambdoid coliphage 21. Implications for the evolution of viruses are discussed.
The Swedish American Press and the American Protective Association

The story of the American Protective Association, a manifestation of narrow nationalism in the closing years of the last century, is an almost forgotten phase of American history. Though a few may be fairly familiar with certain aspects of the history of the American Protective Association, a study of the attitude of the Swedish American press toward the Association, supposedly hostile to the immigrants, may offer some interesting side-lights on general trends of American history from 1890 to 1896.
A review of modern transition-metal nanoclusters: their synthesis, characterization, and applications in catalysis

A literature review of modern transition-metal nanoclusters, with an emphasis on those nanoclusters which are catalytically active, is presented in two parts. Part One presents background information on transition-metal nanoclusters, including an overview of common synthetic routes, a description of how nanoclusters are stabilized, and a brief summary of the multiple characterization techniques used (and the type of information that they can provide). In Part Two, five specific nanocluster case studies are presented, case studies which compare and contrast the syntheses, characterization approaches, and catalytic applications of transition-metal nanoclusters.
Sequence analysis of pqq genes required for biosynthesis of pyrroloquinoline quinone in Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 and the purification of a biosynthetic intermediate

Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 produces pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), the prosthetic group of methanol dehydrogenase. Two gene clusters have been shown to be required for PQQ biosynthesis in this micro-organism and complementation analysis has identified seven pqq genes, pqqDGCBA and pqqEF. The DNA sequence of pqqDGC’ was reported previously. This paper reports the sequence of the genomic region corresponding to pqqC'BA. For consistency, the nomenclature of pqq genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae will be followed. The new nomenclature for pqq genes of M. extorquens AM1 is pqqABCDE and pqqFG. In the genomic region sequenced in this study, two open reading frames were found. One of these encodes PqqE, which showed high identity to analogous pqq genes in other bacteria. PqqE also showed identity to MoaA and NifB in the N-terminal region, where a conserved CxxxCxYC sequence was identified. The sequence of the second open reading frame covered both the pqqC and pqqD regions, suggesting that both functions were encoded by this gene. It is proposed to designate this gene pqqC/D. The deduced amino acid sequence of the pqqC/D product showed identity to PqqC of K. pneumoniae and Pqql of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus in the N-terminal region, and to PqqD of K. pneumoniae and Pqqll of A. calcoaceticus in the C-terminal region. A fragment of M. extorquens AM1 DNA containing only pqqC/D produced a protein of 42 kDa in Escherichia coli, which corresponds to the size of the deduced amino acid sequence of PqqC/D, confirming the absence of a separate pqqD. This genomic region complemented the growth of pqqC mutants of M. extorquens AM1 and Methylobacterium organophilum DSM 760 on methanol. As previously reported for pqq genes of K. pneumoniae, a pqqC mutant of M. extorquens AM1 produced an intermediate of PQQ biosynthesis, which was converted to PQQ by incubation with a crude extract from E. coli cells expressing PqqC/D. The intermediate was found in both crude extract and culture supernatant, and it was purified from the crude extract. The PqqC/D enzyme reaction appeared to require molecular oxygen and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides.
Performance analysis of coarse-grained parallel genetic algorithms on the multi-core sun UltraSPARC T1

The new generation of shared memory multi-core processors with multiple parallel execution paths provides a promising hardware platform for applications with high degree of task-level parallelism (TLP). Genetic Algorithm (GA), a widely-used evolutionary meta-heuristic optimization method, is a unique candidate in this class of applications and demonstrates significant amount of explicit and implicit parallelism. In this paper, we present the performance characteristics of a GA optimizing a placement problem on a Sun UltraSPARC T1 processor. To investigate the behavior of the benchmark, we vary both algorithm-specific parameters as well as the size of the target problem. The system performance is evaluated by monitoring throughput, cycle-per-instruction (CPI) and, the memory access patterns for different core and thread combinations. Our experiments show that for a constant data size, as the number of threads per core increase from 1 to 4, the throughput of the system increases by 84% keeping all cores active. Similarly, as we increase the number of cores in the system, the throughput of the system increases by a factor of 3. The average memory bandwidth is seen to scale in proportion to throughput for both core-scaling and thread-scaling. The overall increase in throughput, either by core-scaling or thread-scaling, in spite of growing memory bandwidth, shows the ability of the multi-threaded multi-core processor to hide long latency memory accesses for the targeted benchmark.
Dimensional change and elastic behavior of layered silicates and Portland cement paste

Abstract The role of water in hydrated Portland cement paste (hpc) is germane to understanding the nature of nanostructure – property relationships of the material. The irreversible dimensional changes of hpc and phase pure C–S–H that occur on wetting and drying are dissimilar to those observed for other silicate minerals of interest to cement science. This irreversibility in hpc is also observed for the modulus of elasticity parameter. Length change, mass change and modulus of elasticity isotherms (including drying–wetting cycles) were determined for specimens of hpc, Ca-montmorillonite and 1.4 nm tobermorite. Length change and modulus of elasticity versus mass loss curves were also obtained for phase pure C–S–H (C/S = 0.8, 1.0 and 1.5). All the isotherms exhibit significant irreversible behavior. Similarities and differences in the nature and character of the isotherms and the relevance of the C–S–H data are discussed. Inferences are made with respect to the nanostructural nature of hpc, its dimensional response in aqueous media and the correspondence in behavior of synthetic C–S–H and that formed in hpc. It is apparent that hpc has unique characteristics that are responsible for stability.
The Flatworm Spliced Leader 3′-Terminal AUG as a Translation Initiator Methionine

Spliced leader (SL) RNA trans-splicing contributes the 5' termini to mRNAs in a variety of eukaryotes. In contrast with some transsplicing metazoan groups (e.g. nematodes), flatworm spliced leaders are variable in both sequence and length in different flatworm taxa. However, an absolutely conserved and unique feature of all flatworm spliced leaders is the presence of a 3'-terminal AUG. We previously suggested that the Schistosoma mansoni spliced leader AUG might contribute a required translation initiator methionine to recipient mRNAs. Here we identified and examined trans-spliced cDNAs from a large set of newly available schistosome cDNAs. 28% of the trans-spliced cDNAs have the SL AUG in-frame with the major open reading frame of the mRNA. We identified over 40 cDNAs (40% of the SL AUG in-frame clones) that require the SL AUG as an initiator methionine to synthesize phylogenetically conserved N-terminal residues characteristic of orthologous proteins. RNA transfection experiments using several schistosome stages demonstrated that the flatworm SL AUG can serve as a translation initiator methionine in vivo. We also present in vivo translation studies of the schistosome initiator methionine context and the effect of the spliced leader AUG added upstream and out-of-frame with the main open reading of recipient mRNAs. Overall, our data have provided evidence that another function of flatworm spliced leader trans-splicing is to provide some recipient mRNAs with an initiator methionine for translation initiation.
Empowering programmability for tangibles

Programming microcontrollers for tangible interfaces can be easier and more accessible than it is now, empowering a broader audience to participate. The first part of this studio will introduce participants to Scratch for Arduino, a graphical programming language for controlling the Arduino hardware platform. The participants will form small groups to create projects using the Arduino in combination with a kit of input and output devices, and program their creations' behavior using Scratch for Arduino. In the second part of the studio, participants will have a chance to get under the hood of the Scratch for Arduino language and its underlying blocks engine, modifying it or extending it to work with other tangible kits. We will close with a discussion about participants' experiences using and modifying Scratch for Arduino and the blocks engine, comparing them to other environments and considering possibilities for future work and collaborations.
Prognostics and advanced diagnostics for improving steady-state and pulse reliability

Achieving high reliability of military platforms is critical for reducing operating costs and increasing operational availability and combat readiness. This paper describes results of a comparative analysis of two approaches to improving platform reliability. The first is based on platform inspections (performed at specific time intervals) and replacement of parts whose remaining life is found to be limited. By selecting appropriate inspection time intervals and fraction of remaining life left, various levels of platform reliability are achieved. The second approach utilizes prognostics capability, which provides estimates of remaining useful life based on platform's health state and the upcoming mission duration. In the analysis, the US Army Abrams M1A1 tank reliability data are utilized. Two operational regimes are considered. A steady-state situation develops after the tanks have been operating sufficiently long, and the average operational availability is not a strong function of time. In contrast, pulse reliability is achieved during a mission of limited duration (pulse). Such situations arise, for example, when tanks are selected for a specific mission that is limited in time, but during which repair or replacement of parts is not possible and high platform reliability is required. The presented results can be used for evaluating the benefits of prognostics approach, determining intelligent maintenance procedures, and developing effective strategies for achieving improved operational readiness and required pulse reliability.
Characterization and correction of data loss in a high bandwidth passive radar system

Passive radar receivers use transmitters of opportunity such as digital television (DTV) broadcast to detect targets. The next generation Manastash Ridge Radar (MRR) is designed without the use of an analog downconverter to observe transmitters up to 1.5 GHz. In addition to fast sampling, the receiver is built around a Xilinx Virtex-5 field programmable gate array (FPGA) for software-defined, flexible, and real-time, low latency processing. The FPGA channelizes data from up to four antennas and streams 8-bit IQ data through a 10 GbE link to a data recorder. Challenging the capacity of this link is extremely desirable, as it will allow the user to save a wide RF spectrum to disk for experimental processing. In the fastest use of this link, we observe up to 10 frequency-adjacent DTV stations simultaneously, however packet loss occurs. We present here characterization of this loss in real data, simulations of how this loss propagates through the processing chain and affects the final data product, suggestions for correcting this loss, and apply these strategies to real detections of aircraft on each of four antennas. The results of the simulations suggest that the radar system can absorb even 50% data loss while losing only 3 dB in detectability of targets and completely recover accurate range and Doppler velocity estimates. The detection of an aircraft with our system in the presence of 12% data loss follows the trends observed in simulation. This encouraging result shows that systems with high processing gain are incredibly robust to noise and the sacrifice of lost data in the face of observing more RF spectrum (more transmitters) is truly not a sacrifice at all.
A handheld magnetic sensing platform for antigen and nucleic acid detection

The core requirements for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics necessitate low-cost, portability, easily integrated sample preparation, and quick measurement time. Frequency-shift based magnetic sensing is a measurement technique utilizing a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) integrated-circuit (IC) chip for magnetic label detection. The sensing scheme leverages the low-cost manufacturing of IC chips while demonstrating the potential for multiplexing capabilities. In this article, we present modifications to this scheme for POC viability. We introduce a handheld reusable reader and a disposable open-well cartridge for the detection of nucleic acids and antigens. The diagnostic system utilizes a novel “magnetic freezing” technique to reduce measurement time, obviates baseline measurement before or during biological assay, and reduces sensor noise. We utilize these enhancements for the room temperature, amplification-free detection of a 31 base-pair DNA oligomer and the interferon-γ (IFN-γ) protein. We have demonstrated reliable measurements down to 100 pM for the DNA assay and 1 pM for the protein.