cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
768 Systemic delivery of a tumor-targeted TLR9 agonist conjugate transforms the tumor immune landscape and induces tumor regression in mice

Background Tumor-localized delivery of Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists is a promising strategy to promote immune activation within the tumor microenvironment (TME) to overcome tumor immunosuppression and induce anti-tumor immune responses. To enable localization to multiple tumor sites following systemic administration, we developed a fully-synthetic tumor-targeting TLR9 agonist and demonstrate its potential to transform the tumor immune microenvironment for effective tumor regression in mice. Methods An engineered synthetic peptide (PIP) that binds to multiple integrin receptors overexpressed in many solid tumors was chemically conjugated to a synthetic CpG oligonucleotide (TLR9 agonist), thereby generating a tumor-targeting immune-stimulant referred to as PIP-CpG. To facilitate clinical translation, PIP-CpG is cross-reactive between mouse, non-human primate, and human. Therapeutic studies were conducted in immune-competent mice bearing breast or pancreatic tumors to evaluate the efficacy of intravenously (IV)-injected PIP-CpG compared to IV-injected unmodified CpG or vehicle (PBS). We then performed mechanistic studies to evaluate the immune response elicited by PIP-CpG therapy. Results Intravenous dosing of PIP-CpG led to tumor regression and prolonged survival, and in some cases cures, relative to vehicle or unmodified CpG therapy in both murine breast (4T1) and pancreatic cancer (KPC-G2) models. This tumor regression was dependent on T cells as T cell depletion resulted in loss of therapeutic response. To study the effect of systemic therapy on the cellular landscape in the TME, we analyzed 4T1 breast tumors by flow cytometry. We found that vehicle and CpG IV-dosed mice had immunosuppressive TMEs comprised mostly of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs; 43–68% of live cells) with minimal infiltrating T cells and B cells (5–16% of live cells). In contrast, the TME of PIP-CpG treated mice was transformed into a lymphocyte-rich “hot” tumor phenotype with massive infiltration by T cells and B cells (92–95% of live cells) and plummeting levels of MDSCs (down to ~1%). In addition, tumor-specific effector CD8+ T cells were generated in response to PIP-CpG therapy, but not CpG dosed IV, indicating that PIP-CpG therapy transforms the TME and elicits a T cell-mediated tumor-specific immune response. Furthermore, PIP-CpG was effective for treating MMTV-PyMT transgenic mice, which spontaneously develop multiple breast tumors. Murine toxicity studies indicated that effects of PIP-CpG were similar to CpG dosed IV or intratumorally, which have been well-tolerated in human clinical trials. Conclusions Tumor-directed systemic delivery of a TLR9 agonist transforms the TME via activated B and T cells and is promising for further development in patients with solid tumors. Ethics Approval All mouse experiments were performed in accordance with protocols approved by the Stanford Administrative Panel on Laboratory Animal Care.
Localization, Mapping, Navigation, and Inspection Methods in In-pipe Robots: A Review

In the oil, gas, and water industries, in-pipe robots have shown promising solutions to reach the inaccessible parts of pipeline networks for condition assessment, leak detection, and fluid quality monitoring. However, the pipeline networks have different sizes and configurations, and there are long lines of pipes that make the operation of in-pipe robots challenging. In this paper, we first categorize the mechanical systems of in-pipe robots and classify them. We then define four missions performed by the in-pipe robots: localization, mapping, navigation, and inspection. Next, we present the core methods used for each mission and list the studies that use the presented methods and the way they are implemented. Since image processing approach is a common way to accomplish task(s) for an in-pipe mission, the team decided to provide a comprehensive categorization of image processing techniques and the required tools. We also list the sensors used in in-pipe robots which would help the researchers select the appropriate sensor or sensor module for a specific technique.
Separation and assisted patterning of hippocampal neurons from glial cells using positive dielectrophoresis

In this work, we describe the separation of embryonic mouse hippocampal neurons from glial cells using a positive dielectrophoresis (DEP) process. Here, we have implemented a cell trapping-favorable, cell suspension solution with low conductivity. It enables positive dielectrophoresis for hippocampal neurons (thereby attracting them to the electrodes), while resulting in negative dielectrophoresis for glial cells (repelling them from the electrodes). We have systematically performed a mathematical simulation and analysis to anticipate the DEP frequency at which hippocampal neurons and glial cells are separated. Simulated DEP crossover frequencies have been experimentally verified, and new, refined glial dielectric and physical properties are suggested that better reflect the experimental results obtained. DEP movements of neurons and glial cells in targeted separation media were experimentally analyzed, under the specified electric signal. Additionally, we have confirmed our modeling results by selectively trapping neurons over electrodes on a custom-made, multi-electrode array (MEA), resulting in active recruitment of neurons over the stimulation and recording sites. This technique is a valuable addition to the toolbox for creating more functional and versatile multi-electrode arrays.
Notes on the Control of the Liouville Equation

In these notes we motive the study of Liouville equations having control terms using examples from problem areas as diverse as atomic physics (NMR), biological motion control and minimum attention control. On one hand, the Liouville model is interpreted as applying to multiple trials involving a single system and on the other, as applying to the control of many identical copies of a single system; e.g., control of a flock. We illustrate the important role the Liouville formulation has in distinguishing between open loop and feedback control. Mathematical results involving controllability and optimization are discussed along with a theorem establishing the controllability of multiple moments associated with linear models. The methods used succeed by relating the behavior of the solutions of the Liouville equation to the behavior of the underlying ordinary differential equation, the related stochastic differential equation, and the consideration of the related moment equations.
A Case Study of the Self-directed Learning of Women Entrepreneurs in the First Four Years of Business Ownership

In this qualitative case study, self-directed learning theory was used as the lens to explore experiences of nine women entrepreneurs during the first four years of business ownership as they sought to acquire skills necessary to run their businesses. Data were collected over six months through in-person 90-minute interviews and follow-up questions posed by telephone and email. Qualitative data software was used for coding and thematic analysis, resulting in five broad conclusions related to learning, with additional unanticipated findings. Study participants engaged in a variety of self-directed learning activities, mostly through trial and error experimentation, and possessed varying motivations for learning. Educational level and reliance on past industry experience limited openness to new experiences and commitment to learning for some, particularly those with high school degrees or limited college experience. The majority of learning was pursued “just-intime” as the need mandated when a challenge presented itself rather than in a pre-planned manner. Learning was heavily reliant on other people: most sought the advice of paid professionals, former co-workers, or friends and family. The use of a mentor for learning was identified by one participant, while three employed business coaches for professional guidance. Much of their learning was highly instrumental in nature, focused on here-andx now problem solving related to managing employees, handling legal issues in establishing the business, and learning to market themselves. While extremely self-confident in their abilities, most of the women struggled with issues of family and work-life balance, and several described guilt over neglecting one aspect of their lives for the other. Study conclusions emphasize the importance of knowing how to learn in the entrepreneurial context and suggest ways entrepreneurs can access knowledge and new experiences for learning, with implications for entrepreneurship programs, government agencies, and educators.
Modified Radioimmunoassay Determination for Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B in Foods

The sensitivity of solid-phase radioimmunoassay for the measurement of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) in foods was decreased by food constituents that react with rabbit anti-SEB with an equivalency of over 2 ng/ml. This activity was minimized by a conditioning step for anti-SEB and by removal of interfering compounds in the sample by extraction. The assay was a sequential solid-phase radioimmunoassay technique in which polystyrene test tubes were initially incubated with antisera and then with bovine serum albumin. The tubes were then conditioned with either a centrifuged aqueous cheese extract or, equally effective, reconstituted nonfat dry milk for 16 h at 4°C. Samples of milk or heat-treated and CHCl3-extracted cheese or chicken salad slurries were incubated in the assay tubes for 6 h at 37°C. The samples were replaced by 125I-labeled SEB and incubated for a further 2 to 4 h before the contents were removed and the tubes were washed and counted. A buffer solution containing known concentrations of toxin served as standards for assaying SEB in the food extracts. The entire assay can be accomplished within 24 h with a sensitivity of 1 ng/ml in milk and in the cheese extract or 1.3 ng/ml in the chicken salad extract.
Cofinality changes required for a large set of unapproachable ordinals below ℵ_{+1}

In V, assume that N ω is a strong limit cardinal and 2 Nω = N ω+1 . Let A be the set of approachable ordinals less than N ω+1 . An open question of M. Foreman is whether A can be non-stationary in some N ω and N ω+1 preserving extension of V. It is shown here that if W is such an outer model, then { k < ω: cf W (N V k ) = N W n } is infinite, for each positive integer n.
Genetic strategies for identification of mitochondrial translation factors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses general strategies employed to study yeast mitochondrial translation genetically. Detailed descriptions of procedures for the isolation of mutants, genetic manipulation of yeast, and phenotypic analysis of mitochondrial functions are described. Although the specific strategies discussed in the chapter are directly applicable only to S. cerevisiae at the present time, it is worth considering how they might be extended to other organisms. The mechanisms of mitochondrial (mt) translation initiation are poorly understood. To a large extent, this is because translation systems of mitochondria have resisted detailed in vitro analysis: although isolated intact organelles carries out protein synthesis, no extract of mitochondria with reproducible mRNA-dependent translational activity is described in the chapter. In the absence of in vitro systems, genetic analysis of mitochondrial translation in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae provides information on organellar gene expression. To date, it has allowed the demonstration of in vivo functional roles for some general translation factors homologous to those of other biological systems and the demonstration of the existence of important regulatory proteins for which no homologs in other systems have been found. This chapter summarizes general strategies employed to study yeast mitochondrial transition genetically.
The Action of Ethyl Alcohol on Gastric Acid Secretion

Summary 1.Ethyl alcohol given intravenously (10 to 40 ml.) to human subjects consistently stimulated both acid and volume of gastric secretion roughly proportional to the amount administered. 2.The site of action of intravenously given alcohol in stimulating gastric secretion was determined by observing the effects of atropine, of hexamethonium and of vagotomy on alcohol-stimulated secretion. It was concluded that alcohol effects stimulation of gastric secretion by acting centrally, as does hypoglycemia, and that the stimulus is mediated through the vagus nerve and not by any direct action on the gastric cell, as is the case with histamine.
A Grain of Salt

An article in this issue of Pediatrics purporting to show the superiority of pediatricians9 management of febrile children compared with that of their family practice colleagues deserves special scrutiny. Caveat lector! Le Duc and Pless (Pediatrics 70:511, 1982) found that when managing acute febrile illness in apparently similar patient groups, residents in family practice obtained three times as many roentgenograms as did pediatric residents whereas pediatricians obtained five times as many cultures and ten times as many "strep screens" as did family practitioners. Despite these dramatically different diagnostic approaches, the patients9 therapy and subsequent courses were remarkably similar: 47% of pediatric patients were treated with antibiotics vs 43% of family practice patients; 92% of pediatric patients were well within six days vs 88% of family practice patients.
Lockup of a client object cache and how to avoid it

This paper presents the problem of client object cache lockup in a distributed object-oriented database system where storage is recovered by garbage collection. If garbage collection is augmented with the ability to discard reachable unmodified versions of persistent objects, cache lockup is greatly reduced. This paper outlines some remaining questions about this technique for managing an object cache. >
The Gods of Yucatán from A.D. 1560 to 1980

This work presents a review of ethnohistorical writings and ethnographic studies (some by the author) in search of Maya deities as they appear in the religious life of the people of Yucatan. This introductory survey spans more than four centuries, from the 1560s to the 1980s. Many of the gods of the early Colonial Period continue living today in the indigenous communities of the Peninsula, while others have disappeared completely. This article traces their presence or absence over time and proposes that their disappearance or survival is a reflection of their role in society. The patron gods of social/civic groups have disappeared while the agricultural gods of the forest and the sky survive today.
The influence of human follicular fluid on the acrosome reaction, fertilizing capacity and proteinase activity of human spermatozoa

The present study was designed to assess physiological and enzymatic changes in human spermatozoa following incubation in human follicular fluid (HFF). Initially, it was determined that infertility patients (n = 29) scored dramatically higher on the hamster egg penetration test (HEPT) when spermatozoa were incubated with HFF (22.9 +/- 4.4%) rather than the standard swim-up alone (4.6 +/- 1.1%). To further evaluate this effect, in experiment I, spermatozoa were obtained from proven fertile individuals and evaluated following exposure to three different HFF samples as well as control treatments (medium, cul de sac fluid and heparin). There were no significant differences in HEPT scores following sperm incubation in the three different follicular fluids although incubation in all the fluids significantly (P less than 0.01) enhanced sperm penetration (%PEN) when compared to the standard swim-up and other control treatments. The absence of an effect of cul de sac fluid on spermatozoa indicates that not all body fluids contain factors which stimulate sperm fertilizing capacity. The effect of HFF was demonstrated in a infertile patient population as well as in donors of proven fertility. In experiment II, the effect of HFF on the acrosome reaction (%AR), sperm fertilizing capacity and changes in sperm proteolytic enzymes were determined. There was no significant difference in the %AR between freshly ejaculated (7.9 +/- 3.1) and medium incubated (9.4 +/- 1.6) spermatozoa; however, in both of these treatments the %AR was less (P less than 0.01) than for spermatozoa treated with HFF (45.6 +/- 4.7). The %PEN following incubation of spermatozoa in HFF (52.2 +/- 6.8) was greatly increased (P +/- 0.01) compared to the standard swim-up (19 +/- 3.9).
Murine Coronavirus Mouse Hepatitis Virus Is Recognized by MDA5 and Induces Type I Interferon in Brain Macrophages/Microglia

The coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) induces a minimal type I interferon (IFN) response in several cell types in vitro despite the fact that the type I IFN response is important in protecting the mouse from infection in vivo. When infected with MHV, mice deficient in IFN-associated receptor expression (IFNAR(-/-)) became moribund by 48 h postinfection. MHV also replicated to higher titers and exhibited a more broad tissue tropism in these mice, which lack a type I IFN response. Interestingly, MHV induced IFN-beta in the brains and livers, two main targets of MHV replication, of infected wild-type mice. MHV infection of primary cell cultures indicates that hepatocytes are not responsible for the IFN-beta production in the liver during MHV infection. Furthermore, macrophages and microglia, but not neurons or astrocytes, are responsible for IFN-beta production in the brain. To determine the pathway by which MHV is recognized in macrophages, IFN-beta mRNA expression was quantified following MHV infection of a panel of primary bone marrow-derived macrophages generated from mice lacking different pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Interestingly, MDA5, a PRR thought to recognize primarily picornaviruses, was required for recognition of MHV. Thus, MHV induces type I IFN in macrophages and microglia in the brains of infected animals and is recognized by an MDA5-dependent pathway in macrophages. These findings suggest that secretion of IFN-beta by macrophages and microglia plays a role in protecting the host from MHV infection of the central nervous system.
Peasants on Plantations: Subaltern Strategies of Labor and Resistance in the Pisco Valley, Peru

Peasants on Plantations: Subaltern Strategies of Labor and Resistance in the Pisco Valley, Peru. Vincent C. Peloso. Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 1999. ix. 251 pp., maps, figures, notes, glossary, bibliography, index.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Mycothione Reductase: pH Dependence of the Kinetic Parameters and Kinetic Isotope Effects†

The recent identification of the enzyme in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of the unique low molecular weight disulfide mycothione, mycothione reductase, has led us to examine the mechanism of catalysis in greater detail. The pH dependence of the kinetic parameters V and V/K for NADPH, NADH, and an active analogue of mycothione disulfide, des-myo-inositol mycothione disulfide, has been determined. An analysis of the pH profiles has allowed the tentative assignment of catalytically significant residues crucial to the mechanism of disulfide reduction, namely, the His444-Glu449 ion pair and Cys39. Solvent kinetic isotope effects were observed on V and V/K(DIMSSM), yielding values of 1.7 +/- 0.2 and 1.4 +/- 0.2, respectively, but not on V/K(NADPH). Proton inventory studies (V versus mole fraction of D(2)O) were linear, indicative of a single proton transfer in a solvent isotopically sensitive step. Steady-state primary deuterium kinetic isotope effects on V have been determined using NADPH and NADH, yielding values of 1.27 +/- 0.03 and 1.66 +/- 0.14, respectively. The pre-steady-state primary deuterium kinetic isotope effect on enzyme reduction has values of 1.82 +/- 0.04 and 1.59 +/- 0.06 for NADPH and NADH, respectively. The steady-state primary deuterium kinetic isotope effect using NADH coincide with that obtained under single turnover conditions, suggesting the complete expression of the intrinsic primary kinetic isotope effect. Rapid reaction studies on the reductive half-reaction using NADPH and NADH yielded maximal rates of 129 +/- 2 and 20 +/- 1 s(-1), respectively, while similar studies of the oxidation of the two-electron reduced enzyme by mycothiol disulfide yielded a maximum rate of 190 +/- 10 s(-1). These data suggest a unique flavoprotein disulfide mechanism in which the rate of the oxidative half-reaction is slightly faster than the rate of the reductive half-reaction.
Low temperature viscoelasticity in nanocrystalline nickel films

Abstract Metals typically do not exhibit viscoelastic deformation. However, grain size effects can render grain boundaries in nanocrystalline metals viscous. Modeling the nanocrystallites as linear elastic elements embedded in a viscous network of grain boundaries, the overall response of nanocrystalline metals can be viscoelastic even at lower temperatures. To investigate this hypothesis, we measured viscoelastic response of 100 nm thick freestanding nickel films at temperatures up to 425 K. Experimental results show about two orders of magnitude lower viscosity compared to the bulk, suggesting that diffusion enhanced mobility of grain boundary atoms may be responsible for such pronounced viscoelasticity.
Endogenous Levels of Circulating Androgens and Risk of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Among Women: A Nested Case–Control Study from the Nurses' Health Study Cohorts

Background: Androgens, which are known to be altered by exogenous hormone use, have recently been linked to alterations of the gut microbiome and mucosal immune function. No study has evaluated the association between circulating levels of androgens and risk of Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods: We conducted a nested case–control study of women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study and Nurses’ Health Study II who provided a blood specimen. Cases of CD and UC were each matched to 2 controls. Prediagnosis plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, and sex hormone–binding globulin were measured. We examined the association of each analyte with risk of CD or UC using conditional logistic regression models. Results: Compared with women in the lowest quintile of testosterone, the multivariable-adjusted odds ratios for CD were 0.86 (95% confidence interval, 0.39–1.90) for women in the second quintile, 0.49 (95% confidence interval, 0.21–1.15) for the third quartile, 0.22 (0.08–0.65) for the fourth quintile, and 0.39 (95% confidence interval, 0.16–0.99) for the highest quintile (Plinear trend ¼ 0.004). In contrast, we did not observe a consistent association between prediagnostic testosterone and risk of UC (Plinear trend ¼ 0.84). We also did not observe any association between plasma levels of sex hormone–binding globulin or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and risk of UC or CD (all Plinear trends . 0.10). Conclusions: Among women, prediagnostic circulating testosterone is associated with a lower risk of CD but not UC. Further studies to understand the biological mechanisms by which endogenous androgens may mediate the etiopathogenesis of CD are warranted. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2015;21:1378–1385)
Assessing Constituent Levels in Smokeless Tobacco Products: A New Approach to Engaging and Educating the Public.

Introduction Providing accurate information about the constituents in nicotine-containing products may help tobacco users make informed decisions about product choices. An experimental study examined a novel approach for presenting accurate constituent information about brands and types of smokeless tobacco (SLT) that could be understood by the general public. Methods Participants were recruited through Amazon's Mechanical Turk and presented information online about 2 constituent dimensions of SLT products-nicotine and/or toxicity (for simplicity, "toxicity" in this study refers to carcinogenic constituents) Participants completed measures of knowledge and tobacco health risks at 2 time points: before and after exposure to constituent information. Results Participants were found to increase their knowledge that toxicity contributes to disease risk and nicotine contributes to addiction, that SLT products vary in their levels of nicotine and toxicity, and that both SLT and cigarette products have higher toxicity than medicinal nicotine replacement therapies (e.g., nicotine lozenges). Study results showed no differences when presenting toxicity information alone versus presenting it in conjunction with nicotine information, and found no misperceptions or confusions about the relative harmfulness of cigarettes, SLT, or nicotine replacement therapy. Conclusions Providing tobacco constituent information to smokers and nonsmokers will improve their knowledge about the relative toxicity across products and variations within a class of tobacco products without compromising the health risks associated with tobacco use.
Funding for Computer-Assisted Instruction Projects.

Getting funding for CAI in the education of health professionals is a tough dollar. For resourceful, scholarly applicants with a scientific approach, support is out there.
Kinetics of antifreeze protein-induced ice growth inhibition

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) depress the freezing temperature of a solution in a non-colligative manner, by arresting the growth of ice crystals. The kinetics of this effect, studied here for the first time using a new technique called temperature gradient thermometry, are consistent with an adsorption-mediated inhibitory mechanism. The results obtained by this approach provide a new experimental basis for understanding AFP interaction with ice.
Of sleep, memories and trauma.

Contrary to the synaptic homeostasis theory, new work finds that reactivating memories during slow-wave sleep enhances learning and hippocampal activation. This may be useful for treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
A synthetic model of Hg(II) sequestration.

Tridentate ligand N-(2-pyridylmethyl)-N-(2-(ethylthiolato)amine (L) forms the novel complex [Hg5(L)6](ClO4)4·toluene (2) with a bicyclo[3.3.3] Hg5S6 core and 4-, 5- and 6-coordinate metal centers; characterization of a solution of 2 by ESI-MS revealed elaborate speciation involving [HgnLn+1(ClO4)n−2]+, [HgnLn(ClO4)n−1]+ and [HgnLn−1(ClO4)n]+ ion families.
Melanin and virulence in Cryptococcus neoformans

Melanin synthesis has been associated with virulence for the human pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans. Recent evidence indicates that C. neoformans cells synthesize melanin during infection and that this pigment protects the fungus against immune defense mechanisms.
BladeCenter midplane and media interface card

This paper describes the electrical architecture and design of the IBM eServerTM BladeCenter® midplane and media interface card. The midplane provides the redundant interconnects among processor blades, switch modules, media interface card, and management modules. It also serves as the redundant power distribution medium from the power modules to all blades and other devices. A major attribute of the BladeCenter electrical design is the redundant nature of the interconnects, which gives this product superior reliability and availability. The media interface card provides the interface between the CD-ROM and floppy disk drives and the blades that share these devices. The sharing of these devices was a key BladeCenter innovation. Also, to ensure that the architecture will be flexible enough to support multiple input/output fabric protocols, SerDes (serialized/deserialized) is used as the internal high-speed communication electrical interface. Since high-speed designs can easily result in higher implementation costs, a significant predesign simulation effort was undertaken to analyze and prioritize design guidelines in order to develop a high-speed midplane at a competitive cost. This paper highlights how we reduced board costs by finding solutions that overcame some of the challenges of 2.5-Gb/s data transmission over multiple printed circuit boards and connectors.
The Power Dynamics of Supervision: Ethical Dilemmas

Supervision is an activity filled with ethical dilemmas related to the power held by the supervisor, a power that should be exercised with care. This article explores some of these dilemmas through the analysis of supervision vignettes viewed from the perspective of social constructionism, in particular, from the insights of French philosopher Michel Foucault. It concludes with suggestions to exercise supervisory power ethically.
Analysis of multiple scattering for (e,2e) experiments on thin films

Abstract The coincidence rate for (e, 2e) scattering from thin films has significant contributions from multiple collisions in contrast to (e, 2e) experiments on gas targets where the multiple scattering rate is negligible. The most likely multiple scattering events involve one or more small angle collisions in addition to the wide angle (e, 2e) scattering. The total coincidence rate can be written as the convolution of a “smearing function” with the (e, 2e) cross section. The smearing function is an infinite series of multiple order, small-angle scattering events and can be determined from the measured, small-angle cross section of the particular material. The (e, 2e) cross section can be deconvoluted from the smearing function by standard techniques. A general expression for the smearing function is derived in this paper and is evaluated for the specific case of amorphous carbon. As an example in applying this analysis, (e, 2e) data on amorphous carbon are deconvoluted from the smearing function by two different methods.
Radiation-induced versus endogenous DNA damage and assays that measure parameters reflecting DNA damage on cell by cell basis: comments on the article by Pollycove and Feinendegen

The article by Pollycove and Feinendegen raises important issues regarding the relative contributions of endogenous and radiation-induced DNA damage to the overall DNA damage burden following low level radiation exposures. Clearly, resolution of the issues raised in their article will have important implications regarding regulatory philosophy. Dose-limiting studies of DNA damage measured on a cell-by-cell basis was used to analyze available data in the context of the proposed model. If one proposes that significant numbers of oxidative DNA lesions are present in cells at a steady state level at any give time, then such damage will be included in the background measure of any DNA damage dependent parameter that is sensitive to these classes of DNA damage. Then the expected number of lesions per cell was compared, prior to X- or gamma-ray exposure, at the dose that gives the minimum statistically significant difference from background, at the dose where the DNA damage dependent parameter is twice background (i.e., the doubling dose). The lesion frequencies predicted from the model by Pollycove and Feinendegen are reasonable for the micronucleus assay and the inhibition of DNA supercoil rewinding, but appear to be inconsistent with results from the comet assay. Possible explanations for the inconsistency between the comet assay dose-response data and the predicted levels of DNA damage predicted by the model are discussed, suggesting that the estimates of the radiation induced damage are too low and those for endogenous damage are too high. The goal in introducing these issues is not to be negative to the article but to present a basis for future discussions and more importantly future experimental work, by which the important issues raised can be resolved.
Sterol metabolism--XLV. Differentiation among monohydroxylated cholesterol derivatives by chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Abstract Twenty monohydroxylated cholesterol derivatives have been characterized by high performance liquid column chromatography and by chemical ionization (CI) mass spectrometry. With ammonia as reagent gas four ions are formed: an ammonium adduct [M + NH 4 ] + , a substitution ion [M + NH 3 -OH] + and elimination ions [M-OH] + and [M-H 2 O-OH] + ]. Thermally stable stenediols exhibit [M + NH 4 ] + as principal ion, less stable allylic or tertiary alcohol derivatives the elimination ions [M-OH] + or [M-H 2 O-OH] + . With methane or isobutane as reagent gas monohydroxylated cholesterols yield five ions: the protonated molecular ion [M + H] + , molecular ion[M] + , hydride abstraction ion [M-H] + , and elimination ions [M-H 2 O + H] + and [M-2H 2 O + H] + , the principal ion uniformly being the [M-H 2 + H] + ion. Methane CI mass spectra of trimethylsilyl ether derivatives of the side-chain hydroxycholesterols exhibit unique fragmentation ions [C n H 2n OSi(CH 3 ) 3 ] + derived from α-cleavages diagnostic of the site of side-chain hydroxylation.
A mixed methods evaluation of an international service learning program in the Dominican Republic.

Objective To examine the impact of an international service learning experience (ISL) using a quantitative and qualitative approach. Design and Sample A descriptive study was used to explore the impact of an ISL experience on global awareness, professional and personal growth with 11 baccalaureate nursing students in the Dominican Republic. Intervention Students participated in a three credit ISL program in the Dominican Republic which included pre- and postexperience seminars and a 2-week, on-site immersion experience. Measures The International Education Survey (IES) was used as the quantitative measure. Content analysis of Critical Reflective Inquiry (CRI) narratives was used as the qualitative method. Results Students reported a high overall impact (M = 5.9) using the IES with high means for the Professional Student Nurse Role (M = 6.10, SD: 0.74), Personal Development (M = 6.08, SD: 0.76), International Perspectives (M = 6.03, SD: 0.71), and a lower mean for Intellectual Development (M = 5.40, SD: 0.69). CRI narratives revealed specific areas of impact, for example, increased empathy and ability to communicate effectively with patients from life situations very different from their own. Conclusions Further exploration of the usefulness of various evaluation tools and methodological designs is warranted to understand this type of pedagogy and its' impact on student learning outcomes short- and long-term.
Unsuspected foreign body in the frontal sinus and anterior cranial fossa

We present the case of a 46-year-old man who was involved in a motor vehicle accident in which his forehead struck the dashboard of his semitractor trailer. A toggle switch penetrated the anterior and posterior tables of his frontal sinus and lodged in the frontal lobe. The foreign body was not found on physical examination at an emergency care facility. The wound was closed, and the patient was sent home. Severe headaches prompted his return the next day. Skull roentgenograms showed the toggle switch, and the patient was referred to our institution for definitive care. This unusual case serves to emphasize the potential for a foreign body to penetrate the frontal sinus with few physical findings.
Parametrized multifield variational principles in elasticity: II. Hybrid functionals and the free formulation

A one-parameter family of d-generalized hybrid/mixed variational principles for linear elasticity is constructed following a domain subdivision. The family includes the d-generalized Hellinger-Reissner and potential energy principles as special cases. The parametrized principle is discretized by independently varied internal displacements, stresses and boundary displacements. The resulting finite element equations are studied following a physically motivated decomposition of the stress and internal displacement fields. The free formulation of Bergan and Nygard is shown to be a special case of this element type, and is obtained by assuming a constant internal stress field. The parameter appears as a scale factor of the higher-order stiffness.
Evaluation of Gravimetric Methods for Dissoluble Matter in Extracts of Environmental Samples

Abstract A number of gravimetric methods were evaluated for the determination of dissolved matter in solvent extracts of combustion samples. The methods described included thermogravimetric analysis, weighing after evaporation under nitrogen, and a microscale evaporation method developed in this study. A well characterized combustion sample, known to consist primarily of alkylated bicyclic and tricyclic aromatic compounds, served as a reference material. Results for the three methods are presented and compared. Although the thermogravimetric analyzer was found to be accurate and versatile, a good compromise between cost, time and accuracy was provided by the microscale evaporation method.
Antibacterial Screening of Secreted Compounds Produced by the Phase I Variant of Photorhabdus luminescens

In this study, antibacterial activity of metabolites secreted by the phase I variant of Photorhabdus luminescens was investigated. Bioactivity of these metabolites was screened against 28 different bacterial species and strains. Bacterial sensitivity was determined by a modified-version of the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion susceptibility method, whereas the phase I variant’s culture permeate was utilized as the “antibacterial” agent. This investigation demonstrates that 11 of the 28 bacterial species tested were sensitive to at least one of the secreted compounds or a combination thereof.
Gauss-Krawtchouk quadrature approximations for moments of multinomial type distributions

SUMMARY An algorithm is given which further simplifies the computation of certain moments defined on multinomial distributions. The algorithm is based on an application of Gaussian quadrature to summation. The statistics are linear combinations of a univariate function of the observed frequencies. The associated set of orthogonal polynomials is an extension to the set of Krawtchouk polynomials. An application to the first four moments of the Neyman-Pearson-Wilks criterion and Shannon's index of diversity is illustrated.
The prompt-feeding program for bleeding gastric and duodenal ulcer: A report on thirty-two cases and an analysis of 1396 recorded cases

1. An analysis of 1396 reported cases of gross bleeding from ulcer of the stomach or duodenum, including 32 personally observed, all treated by a prompt feeding program and a reasonable amount of fluid, shows a gross mortality rate of 3.1 per cent and a net mortality rate of 1.9 per cent. These results are far better than for any other type of treatment, medical or surgical. 2. The type of diet is of secondary importance to the requirement that it be given promptly, irrespective of the degree of bleeding, frequently and in adequate amount. 3. Morphine should be strictly avoided, because of its depressing effect on the tonicity of the musculature of the duodenum, and probably also of the stomach. 4. The prompt feeding program probably is effective because it meets nutritional demands, supplies fluids to counteract shock, neutralizes the gastric acidity, thus preventing further erosion in the ulcer area, and increases intragastric and intraduodenal pressure, thus tending to close the open and bleeding vessel.
Abstract 5117: Cytotoxic effects of hypericum extracts on breast and colorectal tumors

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA The risk of acquiring certain types of cancers has many causes which include age, environment and genetics. There have been advances in the primary treatment options available, which include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, the survival prognosis for many cancer patients remains low. Cancer treatments may involve chemotherapy, which often cause harsh side effects. The Plant kingdom may provide alternative therapy that may have less side effects and possibly more effective. Hypericum perforatum possesses hypericin, which has been been shown to have antitumor effects with invitro studies on specific cell lines. In other Hypericum species, hypericin makes up a smaller percentage of the extract. However, these species contain other phytochemical compounds that may also exert an antitumor effect. The objective of the present study was to assess the cytotoxic potential of H. perforatum cv. topas, H. olympicum, and H. calycinum on breast and colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines. MCF7, SW480, and SW620 cells were treated with varying concentrations dosages of methanolic crude extracts from the plant species. Cytotoxicity was determine by measuring the reduction of Alamar Blue after a 24 hour exposure period of 10,000 cells in 96 well fluorescent plates. The reduction was determine using the Molecular Devices fluorescent spectrophotometer. At the lowest comparable concentrations, H. perforatum cv. topas had a greater reduction in tumor growth than MCF7 and SW40 cells lines. Whereas, H. olympicum demonstrated a greater decrease in SW620 cell growth at the lowest comparable concentration. These results suggest a difference in the phytochemical composition of these plants, which should be evaluated in order to determine what metabolite(s) are having the antitumor effect and their target. Citation Format: Carla Gibbs, Johnette S. Duggans, Erin Malone, Elbert L. Myles. Cytotoxic effects of hypericum extracts on breast and colorectal tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5117. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5117
Image transfer via color-coded projections.

A technique is proposed whereby a 2-D distribution is transmitted via a set of 1-D projections. The color-coded projections are produced by illuminating the object with the dispersed spectrum of a white light source. They are transmitted serially and reconstructed by backprojection.
The relationship between two periodicities observed in Eta Carinae

Abstract An 85-day periodicity in the X-ray emission of Eta Carinae has been reported, while spectrocopic events recur with a period of 5.5 years (Corcoran et al., 1997 [Natur, 390, 587]; Damineli, 1996 [ApJ, 460, L49]). If the hot X-rays are produced by colliding winds in a 5.5-year binary system, then the interval of 85 days between X-ray flares is likely to represent pulsation or rotation of the primary star, or conceivably the orbit of a third object. In a broad class of models, the 85-day recurrence interval is predicted to lengthen drastically in 1998 after the two stars pass periastron. If this effect does occur, then it can give information about the nature of the system. If it does not, then specific types of models are ruled out.
Urokinase is a Positive Regulator of Epidermal Proliferation In Vivo

The epidermis is a self-renewing tissue that must maintain a basal proliferative rate as well as respond to various perturbing stimuli. Regulation of keratinocyte proliferation involves diverse molecules, including growth factors, ions, and hormones. We recently proposed that a proteinase, urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) may be added to this list, based on correlative evidence linking expression of uPA and murine epidermal hyperproliferation. Here we report that, during the first 3 d of life, the epidermis from mice that bear a targeted deletion of the uPA gene has a significantly lower proliferative rate than the epidermis from wild-type mice. In contrast, proliferation in the matrix keratinocytes of the hair follicles is not decreased in neonatal uPA–/– mice. Vertical migration of keratinocytes during terminal differentiation was not affected. We therefore conclude that lack of uPA is associated with a decrease in epidermal proliferation.
Effects of neuroendocrine tissue and cyclic AMP on ovarian growth in vivo and in vitro in the fiddler crab, Uca pugilator

Abstract 1. 1. Thoracic ganglion extracts prepared from female Uca pugilator induced precocious ovarian maturation in intact and eyestalkless crabs. 2. 2. The ability of the thoracic ganglion extracts to induce accelerated ovarian growth varied with respect to the phase of the reproductive cycle. 3. 3. Thoracic ganglia, eyestalk neuroendocrine tissue and cyclic AMP inhibited protein synthesis in previtellogenic ovaries of Uca pugilator in vitro. 4. 4. Eyestalk removal, especially during the breeding season, produced accelerated ovarian growth, as expected. 5. 5. These results support the hypothesis that the ovary of decapod crustaceans is regulated by inhibiting and stimulating hormones.
Adult seafood allergy in the Texas Medical Center: A 13-year experience.

There is a paucity of data regarding prevalence and characteristics of adult seafood allergy in United States cohorts. This study was designed to determine the characteristics of patient-reported s...
Radiation induced processes in the co-polymer, polyethylene-poly(vinyl alcohol)

Abstract We have studied the radiation chemistry of the co-polymer of polyethylene–polyvinyl alcohol, PVA-co-PE, by pulsed radiolysis (2 ns pulses of 0.4 MeV electrons), and by steady state 60Co γ-irradiation at 77 K. The radiolysis is discussed in terms of the radiation chemistry of the pure component polyethylene, PE, and poly(vinyl alcohol), PVA, which have been studied earlier by our techniques. Fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy with the molecular probe pyrene show that the physical properties, i.e. refractive index, dielectric constant, micropolarity, etc., of the co-polymer are intermediate between those of PE and PVA as required for a random co-polymer, while phosphorescence studies show that the rigidity of the polymer is closer to that of PVA. High-energy radiation develops excited states of guest molecules (pyrene) in hydrophobic PE but not in hydrophilic PVA or co-polymer. This is shown to be due to the rapid destruction of the positive hole in the latter two polymers by the OH groups. In radiolysis, the radical ions of guest molecules are developed in all three polymers but the radical cation is only developed in PE. The yields of these reactions are high with G values of the order of unity. In all three polymers the H atom adduct of the probe molecule is developed; in PE via radical reactions, but in PVA and co-polymers via reaction with a proton. Fast spectroscopy at room temperature identifies a large yield (G=2.0) of trapped electrons in the co-polymer, while low temperature ESR studies show that the α-cation radical of the alcohol group is produced in agreement with the PVA studies. A marked feature of the present study is the influence of water in increasing the efficiency of radiation induced crosslinking.
The role of understanding in solving word problems

Abstract Word problems are notoriously difficult to solve. We suggest that much of the difficulty children experience with word problems can be attributed to difficulty in comprehending abstract or ambiguous language. We tested this hypothesis by (1) requiring children to recall problems either before or after solving them, (2) requiring them to generate final questions to incomplete word problems, and (3) modeling performance patterns using a computer simulation. Solution performance was found to be systematically related to recall and question generation performance. Correct solutions were associated with accurate recall of the problem structure and with appropriate question generation. Solution “errors” were found to be correct solutions to miscomprehended problems. Word problems that contained abstract or ambiguous language tended to be miscomprehended more often than those using simpler language, and there was a great deal of systematicity in the way these problems were miscomprehended. Solution error patterns were successfully simulated by manipulating a computer model's language comprehension strategies, as opposed to its knowledge of logical set relations.