cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural features that distinguish kinetically distinct biomineralization polypeptides

AP7 and AP24 are mollusk shell proteins which are responsible for aragonite polymorph formation and stabilization within the nacre layer of the Pacific red abalone, Haliotis rufescens. It is known that the 30-AA N-terminal mineral modification domains of both proteins (AP7N, AP24N) possess identical multifunctional mineralization capabilities within in vitro assays but differ in terms of rate kinetics, with AP24N > AP7N. In this report, we identify previously unreported molecular features of AP24N and contrast the lowest energy polypeptide backbone structures of AP24N (planar configuration) with that of AP7N ("bent paper clip" configuration) using NMR data and simulated annealing molecular dynamics structure refinement. Like AP7N, we find that AP24N possesses an unfolded conformation, can sequester Ca(II) and other multivalent metal ions, can adsorb onto or within calcite crystals, and possesses anionic and cationic electrostatic "pocket" regions on its molecular surfaces. However, AP24N has some unique features: greater conformational responsiveness to Ca(II), the tendency to form a more planar backbone configuration, and longer anionic and hydrogen-bonding donor/acceptor sequence blocks. We conclude that the presence of unfolded polypeptide conformation, electrostatic surface pockets, and interactive sequence clustering endow both AP7N and AP24N with similar features that lead to comparable effects on crystal morphology and nucleation. However, AP24N possesses longer anionic and hydrogen-bonding sequence clusters and exhibits a tendency to adopt a more planar backbone configuration than AP7N does. We believe that these features facilitate peptide-mineral, peptide-ion, or water cluster interactions, thereby enhancing the mineralization kinetics of AP24N over AP7N.
Silver lining to the cloud over anorexogen-related cardiac valvulopathy?

The studies by Weissman and Mast and their colleagues in this issue clarify two important issues concerning anorexogen-induced valvulopathy: that progressive valvulopathy is uncommon and that valvu...
Cell division: The renaissance of the centriole.

Abstract Centrioles are located at the center of the cytoskeleton and duplicate exactly once per cell cycle. Recent studies suggest that centrioles are required for the organization of a functional centrosome and that centriole assembly requires both γ- and δ-tubulin.
Individual value systems, organizational investments, and personal constraints as predictors of organizational commitment: Direct or indirect effects?

This study attempted to determine if individual value systems, organizational investments, and personal constraints affect organizational commitment directly or only indirectly through job satisfaction. Previous research has determined that certain job characteristics exert only indirect effects on the value or affective dimension of organizational commitment. The purpose of this study was to examine whether other categories of antecedents have any direct effects on value commitment. The study used hierarchical regression on data from 270 evening MBA students employed full-time in managerial or professional positions. Results showed that organizational investments and the Protestant Work Ethic both exerted significant direct effects on organizational commitment as predicted. Personal constraints showed a negative relationship with value commitment, opposite to the prediction, while the effect of the Materialistic Work Ethic was nonsignificant. However, job satisfaction showed a substantially higher correlation with value commitment than did any other antecedent.
cofradías and cargos: an historical perspective on the Mesoamerican civil-religious hierarchy

Most accounts of the Mesoamerican civil-religious hierarchy assume either a pre-Hispanic or colonial formation of the system, despite the lack of convincing evidence. This paper presents unpublished archival data on colonial cofradias and civil cargos from four regions of Mexico: Jalisco, central Mexico, the Valley of Oaxaca, and the Sierra Zapoteca of Oaxaca. It is argued that while a civil hierarchy was well developed in colonial times, the civil-religious hierarchy was mainly a post-independence development. Changes in the functions of the hierarchy and its mode of articulation with the larger society are also discussed. [Mesoamerica, peasant society, ethnohistory, religion, political organization]
Absence of Platinophilic Interactions in a Series of Tetracyanoplatinates Incorporating Cyclic Amines

Three novel compounds have been synthesized and structurally characterized: [1,10-Hphen]2Pt(CN)4·2H2O (1a) space group P21/n, a = 8.73070(17) A, b = 15.4609(2) A, c = 9.82661(19) A, β = 103.252(2)°; [2,2′-Hbipy]2Pt(CN)4·2H2O (1b) space group P21/n, a = 7.0859(14) A, b = 12.940(2) A, c = 13.7486(19) A, β = 100.708(16)°; K2[Pt(CN)4]·2phen (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) (2) space group P21/c, a = 8.1393(4) A, b = 20.4050(9) A, c = 8.4085(4) A, β = 105.284°. All three structures contain isolated [Pt(CN)4]2− ions and they all illustrate the absence of Pt⋯Pt interactions due to the presence of bulky cyclic amines or ammoniums. The structures of 1a and 1b contain large organic cations, 2,2′-bipyridinium and 1,10-phenanthrolinium, respectively while compound 2 contains neutral 1,10-phenanthroline molecules co-crystallized between the potassium tetracyanoplatinate framework. The structures are presented for three non-isostructural tetracyanoplatinates all incorporating cyclic amines. All three structures are isolated as salts that lack Pt⋯Pt interactions. Structures 1a and 1b are stabilized through hydrogen bonding while structure 2 is a cocrystal with alternating layers of potassium tetracyanoplatinate and 1,10-phenanthroline.
Using Queer Theory to Explore Lesbian College Students' Multiple Dimensions of Identity

By introducing queer theory to Abes and Jones's (2004) constructivist narrative inquiry of lesbian college students' perceptions of their multiple identities, we retell the developmental narrative of one participant's negotiation of her sexuality, religion, gender, and social class. This queer retelling of a developmental story shows how identities are constantly forming and reforming and challenges heteronormative assumptions underlying student development theory, including the construct of self-authorship. We propose a fluid perspective on student development that accounts for lesbian college students' resistance of heteronormative structures. We also encourage student affairs practice that centers lesbian college students' agency and resistance.
FAST METHOD FOR HIGH-FREQUENCY ACOUSTIC SCATTERING FROM RANDOM SCATTERERS

This paper is concerned with the uncertainty quantification of high-frequency acoustic scattering from objects with random shape in two-dimensional space. Several new methods are introduced to efficiently estimate the mean and variance of the random radar cross section in all directions. In the physical domain, the scattering problem is solved
Immunocytologic Analysis of Cells Obtained from Bronchoalveolar Lavage in a Model of Rat Lung Allograft Rejection

Left lung transplantation (n = 30) between BN rat (RT1n) and LEW rat (RT11) was performed to examine serial changes in the inflammatory cell profile and T-cell subsets occurring in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) obtained after transplantation. Transplanted animals were sacrificed on Days 1 to 7 post-transplantation. Previous studies show that lung allografts between these rat strains were strongly rejected within 7 days. The serial change in the cell profile of BAL showed a marked initial predominance of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, a decrease in macrophages, and a temporary increase in number of eosinophils on Day 2 posttransplantation. A gradual increase in lymphocytes coincident with progression of rejection was also noted. Immunocytologic studies using monoclonal antibodies specific for rat T-cell subsets and interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) showed significant increase in pan-T-cells on Days 3, 4, and 5 and T-suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8 positive) fraction on Days 4 and 5, whereas the T-helper (CD4 positive) fraction peaked on Day 2. The frequency of T-cells expressing IL-2R (55 kDa), indicating activated T-cells, significantly increased as early as Day 2 and maintained its high value thereafter. mRNA levels for IL-2R were detectable in the allografts on Day 2 and peaked on Day 5 post-transplantation. The value of CD4/CD8 T-cell ratios rose initially and then dropped below 1.0 on Days 4 and 5. These values differed markedly from those of syngeneic transplants (Lew → Lew) examined on Day 5 post-transplantation. First, no significant changes in BAL cytology were seen when syngeneic transplants were compared with normal (Lew) lung. However, there were significant differences between syngeneic and allogeneic transplants preformed on Days 1-5 (P < 0.01). All immunocytology parameters (CD4-, CD8-, and IL-2R-positive T-cells) were significantly (P < 0.01) different between syngeneic and allogeneic transplants at each time point examined. No IL-2R mRNA was detectable in syngeneic transplants on Day 5, and none was detected in normal lungs. In summary, the following cellular events in BAL were felt to correlate closely with the histological diagnosis of rat lung allograft rejection: (i) An increase infiltration of T-cells bearing the pan-T-cell marker, OX-19, (ii) an increase in T-cells hearing the CD8 phenotype with a progressive decrease in the CD4/CD8 ratio, (iii) a progressive increased accumulation of mRNA specific for IL-2R and increased expression of IL-2R on graft-infiltrating T cells, (iv) an increase in the number of eosinophils infiltrating the graft.
Prospects for imaging TOF-SIMS: from fundamentals to biotechnology

Abstract Molecular imaging with TOF-SIMS is considered with respect to existing technical challenges and potential applications. The major goal is to improve the sensitivity of measurement since desorption of molecules occurs from an area of much less than 1 μm in diameter and the number of molecules is limited. Improved knowledge of the fundamental aspects of the molecular collision cascade, bombardment with focused beams of cluster ions, laser postionization of neutral molecules and ion correlation techniques are suggested as areas where there may be considerable payoff. Potential applications to biomaterials, single biological cells, rapid screening in genomics and proteomics and molecular electronics are considered.
Fiber-reinforced scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine: use of traditional textile substrates to nanofibrous arrays

Regenerative medicine is a promising therapeutic strategy for the repair and replacement of diseased or injured tissues and organs. The main approach for this method is the fabrication and use of scaffold materials to act as a surrogate framework and promote cell-seeded populations to develop into a mature and functional tissue. Scaffold based strategies for regenerative medicine have focused on the use of three dimensional, biocompatible, biodegradable structures to provide an adequate template for ex vivo cell expansion and maturation, native tissue ingrowth, and restoration of the original tissue qualities with respect to the tissue's biochemical constituents, morphology, form, and function. To achieve this, the use of fiber and/or textile substrates have been used as either the underlying skeleton or reinforcing agents with or without three-dimensional matrices to provide scaffolds that exhibit suitable mechanical properties, high cellularity, and better mimicry of the natural tissue organization and its resulting composition. In this article we discuss (1) fiber reinforcement in natural tissues, (2) literature examples of fiber reinforcement in engineered tissues, and (3) strategies and next steps to expand this field. Fiber reinforcement continues to be an ideal strategy for tissue scaffolds that require mechanical reinforcement while providing high surface volume in a compliant form.
Automated Fault Tree Analysis for Engineering Design Optimization

This paper presents an automated fault tree analysis for engineering design optimization process. Specifically, a novel approach is presented in which Little-JIL, a process programming language, is applied to create a process model of engineering optimization. The process model uses a graphical language in the form of easy-to-understand block diagrams for defining processes that coordinate the activities of autonomous agents and their use of resources during the performance of a task. The use of Little-JIL facilitates agent coordination in the design optimization process and helps to model the order of and the communications between units of sub-processes. The resulting process model is easy to debug and is rigorous for simulation and formal reasoning in engineering design optimization. Furthermore, it enables the development of a clear and precise design optimization process model at different levels of granularity as perhaps preferred by the user. Moreover, since the process model allows for generation of fault trees automatically, it can be expected to be less errorprone than manually generated ones. A case study is shown to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the automated fault tree approach to design optimization and its usefulness in engineering decision making and in improving reliability of engineering design process.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Do patients consistently report comorbid conditions over time?: results from the prostate cancer outcomes study.

Background:Comorbidity is an important dimension of patient health status. However, limited attention has been given to assessing the reliability of patient-reported data on comorbid conditions.Objectives:We sought to evaluate the consistency of self-report of 12 comorbid conditions at 3 distinct ti
Chromatography on Self-Assembled Carbon Nanotubes

Stationary phases that provide high resolutions and are stable at high temperatures are of significant importance in chromatographic analysis. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are known to have high thermal and mechanical stability and have the potential to be high-performance separation media that utilize the nanoscale interactions. Here, we report the first application of self-assembled CNTs in long capillary tubes for the development of gas chromatography columns. A film of CNTs was deposited by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to form the stationary phase in the open tubular format. High-resolution separation of a number of compounds has been achieved. Altering the CVD conditions can vary the thickness and the morphology of the CNT film, which opens the possibility of selectivity tuning. The ability to fabricate long tubes coated with CNTs can be readily employed in other gas- and liquid-phase separations as well.
Quantity-Discount Dependent Consumer Preferences and Competitive Non-Linear Pricing

Producers of consumer packaged-goods often offer several package sizes of the same product, and charge a lower unit price for a larger size. In this paper, we investigate the quantity-discount effect, or the phenomenon that consumers derive transaction utility from the unit price difference between a small and a large package sizes of the same product. We propose a modeling framework composed of a demand-side model and a supply-side model. On the demand side, we develop a choice model to account for such quantity-discount effects while controlling for structural heterogeneity (i.e. consumers may perceive quantity discounts as gains or losses) and preference heterogeneity (i.e. consumers may have different preferences on brand, size, price, etc.). On the supply side, we model profit-maximizing decisions of both manufacturers and retailers. We infer channel members’ interaction relationships and their pricing strategies by estimating and comparing a menu of supply-side specifications. We apply the proposed model to a scanner panel data on consumer light beer purchases. Our empirical results suggest that quantity-discount induced gains/losses have significant impact on consumer buying behavior. We also find a substantial amount of structural heterogeneity, that is, some consumers perceive quantity discounts as gains in making choice decisions, whereas others perceive quantity discounts as losses. On the other hand, the supply-side analysis suggests that manufacturers in our empirical application do not consider quantity-discount effects when setting prices. Through a series of policy experiments, we show that by accounting for quantity-discount dependent consumer preferences, manufacturers can design more effective non-pricing schemes and obtain greater profits.
Chopped ion beams for radiation effects simulation

Abstract The heavy ion source located in the terminal of a 5 MV Van de Graaff has been modified to produce chopped ion-beams useful for studying microstructural phenomena in ion irradiated materials.
Structural Evidence for An Enolate Intermediate in GFP Fluorophore Biosynthesis

The Aequorea victoria green fluorescent protein (GFP) creates a fluorophore from its component amino acids Ser65, Tyr66, and Gly67 through a remarkable post-translational modification, involving spontaneous peptide backbone cyclization, dehydration, and oxidation reactions. Here we test and extend the understanding of fluorophore biosynthesis by coupling chemical reduction and anaerobic methodologies with kinetic analyses and protein structure determination. Two high-resolution structures of dithionite-treated GFP variants reveal a previously uncharacterized enolate intermediate form of the chromophore that is viable in generating a fluorophore (t1/2 = 39 min-1) upon exposure to air. Isolation of this enolate intermediate will now allow specific probing of the rate-limiting oxidation step for fluorophore biosynthesis in GFP and its red fluorescent protein homologues. Such targeted characterizations may lead to the design of faster maturing proteins with enhanced applications in biotechnology and cell biol...
Oxidation of Dihydrotestosterone by Human Cytochromes P450 19A1 and 3A4

Dihydrotestosterone is a more potent androgen than testosterone and plays an important role in endocrine function. We demonstrated that, like testosterone, dihydrotestosterone can be oxidized by human cytochrome P450 (P450) 19A1, the steroid aromatase. The products identified include the 19-hydroxy- and 19-oxo derivatives and the resulting Δ1,10-, Δ5,10-, and Δ9,10-dehydro 19-norsteroid products (loss of 19-methyl group). The overall catalytic efficiency of oxidation was ∼10-fold higher than reported for 3α-reduction by 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, the major enzyme known to deactivate dihydrotestosterone. These and other studies demonstrate the flexibility of P450 19A1 in removing the 1- and 2-hydrogens from 19-norsteroids, the 2-hydrogen from estrone, and (in this case) the 1-, 5β-, and 9β-hydrogens of dihydrotestosterone. Incubation of dihydrotestosterone with human liver microsomes and NADPH yielded the 18- and 19-hydroxy products plus the Δ1,10-dehydro 19-nor product identified in the P450 19A1 reaction. The 18- and 19-hydroxylation reactions were attributed to P450 3A4, and 18- and 19-hydroxydihydrotestosterone were identified in human plasma and urine samples. The change in the pucker of the A ring caused by reduction of the Δ4,5 bond is remarkable in shifting the course of hydroxylation from the 6β-, 2β-, 1β-, and 15β-methylene carbons (testosterone) to the axial methyl groups (18, 19) in dihydrotestosterone and demonstrates the sensitivity of P450 3A4, even with its large active site, to small changes in substrate structure.
Crystallization of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) in complex with the HNF1α promoter element

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily that plays a central role in organ development and metabolic functions. Mutations on HNF4α cause maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), a dominant monogenic cause of diabetes. In order to understand the molecular mechanism of promoter recognition and the molecular basis of disease-causing mutations, the recombinant HNF4α DNA-binding domain was prepared and used in a study of its binding properties and in crystallization with a 21-mer DNA fragment that contains the promoter element of another MODY gene, HNF1α. The HNF4α protein displays a cooperative and specific DNA-binding activity towards its target gene-recognition elements. Crystals of the complex diffract to 2.0 A using a synchrotron-radiation source under cryogenic (100 K) conditions and belong to space group C2, with unit-cell parameters a = 121.63, b = 35.43, c = 70.99 A, β = 119.36°. A molecular-replacement solution has been obtained and structure refinement is in progress. This structure and the binding studies will provide the groundwork for detailed functional and biochemical studies of the MODY mutants.
A new CRL gate as super class of Fredkin gate to design reversible quantum circuits

Conservative reversible logic gate is a reversible logic gate that is reversible in nature and also satisfy the property that there are equal number of 1s in the outputs as in the inputs. In this work, we present a new class of n × n (n inputs and n outputs) conservative reversible logic gate named SCRL (Super Conservative Reversible Logic) gate for the design of reversible quantum circuits. The proposed SCRL gate has 1 control input depending on the value of which it can swap any two n - 1 data inputs, hence is superior to the existing Fredkin gate. In reversible circuits, the constant input bits that are used to realize different logic functions are referred to as ancilla inputs, while the outputs that are neither primary inputs nor contribute to any useful computations are referred to as garbage outputs. As Ancilla inputs and garbage outputs are overhead bits in a reversible circuit, they need to be minimized. Barrel shifter forms an integral component of many computing systems. As an example of using the proposed SCRL gate to design efficient reversible quantum circuits, the design of reversible barrel shifter with zero ancilla inputs and zero garbage outputs is illustrated.
Thermal considerations for the edge guiding of thin magnetic tape in a longitudinal tape transport

Abstract High data rate recording using a longitudinal instrumentation tape transport requires high tape speeds. The need for high volumetric capacity requires thin tapes. The running of thin magnetic tape at high speeds can result in edge damage by excessive heating. In this paper, we have studied flash temperature dependence on tape speed, edge contact pressure, and edge guide material characteristics. For an instrumentation transport, some redesign was found to be needed in order to handle the new generation of thin tapes. In this transport the tape is edge guided to ensure good tracking of narrow data tracks. The edge guiding mechanism was optimized by reducing the guiding forces as much as possible and utilizing a guide with low friction, high thermal conductivity, and its ability to prevent build up of tape (polymeric) deposits. The role of the environment on the tape edge damage is also discussed.
Public goods in relation to competition, cooperation, and spite

Public goods and common-pool resources are fundamental features of biological and social systems, and pose core challenges in achieving sustainability; for such situations, the immediate interests of individuals and the societies in which they are embedded are in potential conflict, involving game-theoretic considerations whose resolution need not serve the collective good. Evolution has often confronted such dilemmas—e.g., in bacterial biofilms—in the challenges of cancer, in nitrogen fixation and chelation, in the production of antibiotics, and in collective action problems across animal groups; there is much to learn from the Darwinian resolution of these situations for how to address problems our societies face today. Addressing these problems involves understanding the emergence of cooperative agreements, from reciprocal altruism and insurance arrangements to the social norms and more formal institutions that maintain societies. At the core are the issues of how individuals and societies discount the future and the interests of others, and the degree that individual decisions are influenced by regard for others. Ultimately, as Garrett Hardin suggested, the solution to problems of the commons is in “mutual coercion, mutually agreed upon,” and hence in how groups of individuals form and how they arrive at decisions that ultimately benefit all.
Membrane targeting of the nucleotide exchange factor Sos is sufficient for activating the Ras signaling pathway

Activation of growth factor receptors results in tyrosine autophosphorylation and recruitment of SH2 domain-containing effectors, including Grb2. Grb2 recruitment mediates activation of the Ras nucleotide exchanger Sos by an unknown mechanism. To examine the role of membrane recruitment, we prepared Sos derivatives containing either myristoylation or farnesylation signals. This resulted in plasma membrane targeting of Sos and stimulation of the Ras signaling pathway, including ERK and AP-1 activities leading to oncogenic transformation. Sos derivatives with nonfunctional myristoylation or farnesylation sequences were inactive. Farnesylation of Sos also activated Ras signaling in yeast. In both mammalian cells and yeast, membrane-targeted Sos derivatives lacking the C-terminal region were considerably more active. Therefore, targeting of Sos to the plasma membrane in the vicinity of Ras appears to be the primary mechanism leading to activation of the Ras pathway. A secondary mechanism could involve relief of the inhibitory effect of the Sos C-terminal region.
Aging with Chinese Characteristics: A Public Policy Perspective

This article reflects on the meaning of aging in China by reviewing issues of population change centering on the baby boomer generation. Family structure, living arrangements, and long-term care needs of the aged as well as societal responses are re-visited under the general public policy framework of an “economic state in transition.” The development of income support, health care, and personal social services for the elderly is examined by reviewing the 2006 government White Paper and the research literature. Employment, education, and lifestyle issues are further investigated under the United Nations policy framework on active aging. Policy, practical, and theoretical issues in achieving the country’s articulated goals are discussed. Adequate preparation for aging is emphasized by considering the roles of individuals, families, practitioners, and policy makers.
In vitro pharmacodynamic characteristics of flucytosine determined by time-kill methods.

Two Candida albicans isolates, three non-albicans Candida isolates (Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, and Candida tropicalis), and one Cryptococcus neoformans isolate were evaluated by time-kill methods to characterize the relationship of flucytosine concentrations to antifungal activity and the duration of the post-antifungal effect (PAE). Against Candida and Cryptococcus isolates, flucytosine at concentrations > 1 × MIC exhibited fungistatic (≤99% reduction in CFU) activity over a 24-h time-period. The rate and extent of fungistatic activity of flucytosine against all isolates was generally not increased when 5-FC concentrations exceeded 4 × MIC. A notable PAE was detected for flucytosine against both Candida and Cryptococcus species that persisted 2 to 4 h. These in vitro data suggest that flucytosine is predominately a concentration-independent fungistatic agent at clinically achieved serum concentrations. This pharmacodynamic characteristic coupled with the persistent PAE and the relatively long half-life of flucytosine in humans (>5 h), suggests lower daily dosing may possible without loss of antifungal efficacy.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Ugandan Infants With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1?Infection

Background . The neurodevelopmental outcomes of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected Ugandan infants of nondrug-using mothers were studied using controlled, prospective methodology. Method . The sample of 436 full-term infants included 79 HIV-infected infants of HIV-1-infected mothers, 241 uninfected infants of HIV-1-infected mothers (seroreverters), and 116 uninfected infants born to HIV-negative mothers. Neurologic status, information processing ability, and motor and mental development were assessed from 6 to 24 months of age. Observations of caretaker-child interaction and home environments were made at 6 and 12 months. All evaluators were blinded to the HIV status of the child and family. Results . Compared with seroreverters and uninfected infants, HIV-infected infants demonstrated greater deficits in motor development and neurologic status, and more frequent and earlier onset of motor and neurologic abnormalities. Compared with controls, HIV-infected infants had more abnormalities in mental development at 6 and 18 months and an earlier onset of abnormalities. By 12 months, 30% of HIV-infected infants demonstrated motor abnormalities and 26% cognitive abnormalities as compared with 11% and 6% among seroreverters and 5% and 6% among seronegative infants. HIV-infected infants (62%) demonstrated a higher probability of developing an abnormal neurologic examination by 12 months, compared with seroreverters (17%) or seronegative infants (15%). Information-processing abilities did not differ as a function of HIV infection. Home environments and infants9 interactions with caretakers were similar across groups. Conclusion . We conclude that HIV infection results in more frequent and earlier abnormalities in infants9 neurologic status and motor development that are not attributable to other biological and environmental risk factors. More frequent mental developmental abnormalities were evident at several ages. However, information-processing abilities, such as recognition memory, may be spared from HIV-related deficits.
Implementation and Usage of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

Whether to solve specific business problems or comply with trading partner mandates, many companies are now engaged in pilot projects using radio frequency identification (RFID). RFID dramatically increases the potential for organizations to collect data about any tagable entity, which has implications for supply chain logistics, customer relationship management, health care systems, human resource management, and privacy/intellectual property policies. However, in many cases the adoption issues and the business case are not well understood for this emerging technology. This mini-track includes three papers on the Implementation and Usage of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in today?s organization and emphasizes the building of an on-going research tradition in this area.
Germline Stem Cell Division and Egg Chamber Development in Transplanted Drosophila Germaria

Germline and somatic stem cells reside within the anterior region (or "germarium") of each ovariole in the Drosophila ovary. When individual germaria were dissected free of developing eggs and sheath tissue and transplanted into the abdominal cavity of a host fly, they regenerated ovariole-like structures and continuously supported the entire process of oogenesis, indicating that the stem cells remained functional. This system allowed us to measure the duration of several stages in oogenesis and to analyze the role of specific germarial cells in providing stem cell function. Laser ablation of presumptive germline stem cells near the apical tip prior to transplantation blocked the production of new germline cysts, but allowed previously initiated cysts to complete development. This confirmed the location of germline stem cells and showed that subsequent development of preexisting cysts did not require continued cyst production. Ablation of a distinct group of somatic cells lying close to the germline stem cells ("the terminal filament") increased the rate of oogenesis by approximately 40%, suggesting that the terminal filament may negatively regulate stem cell division.
Solution of bohr's collective hamiltonian

Abstract The Bohr collective Hamiltonian is diagonalized within the basis set of states corresponding to the quadrupole vibrator around the spherical equilibrium position. The dependence of the solution on the properties of the basis is discussed. Typical computer times used in the application of the method are given. The minimum number of spherical phonons that is needed in order to represent transition and well-deformed nuclei is also obtained.
HIV mutagenesis and the evolution of antiretroviral drug resistance

The development of antiretroviral drug resistance is a major threat to the effective treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. Drug treatment failure is associated with accumulation of drug resistance mutations and the evolution of drug resistance. Studies from microbial systems provide evidence for a correlation between drug resistance development and increased pathogen mutation rates. Recent studies with HIV-1 have shown that drugs targeted against reverse transcriptase (RT) as well as drug-resistant RT can increase HIV-1 mutation frequencies. Furthermore, combinations of drug and drug-resistant RT have been found to increase virus mutation frequencies in a multiplicative manner. The correlation of increased HIV-1 mutation rates with the evolution of antiretroviral drug resistance indicates that drug failure could increase the likelihood of further resistance evolving from subsequent drug regimens.
Random-access stimulated-echo optical cache memory

We describe a new approach to develop a high-speed, high-density random access cache memory. This new technique is based on a novel approach using, in essence, a hybrid of the time domain stimulated echo (SE) concept and the frequency domain scheme. It has been demonstrated that the rare-earth doped crystals, can at low temperatures store large amounts of information for up to 24 hours using SE. The basic approach we have developed is the partitioning of the absorption frequency domain into smaller bins, so that each frequency bin stores a smaller portion of information independently. The bins are distinguishable by their different absorption frequencies and they are accessed by changing the laser frequency (color). However, information is still stored and retrieved using the time-domain pulse sequency used in SE. Specifically, with the laser frequency set at the particular absorption of a frequency bin, the laser is externally modulated by an acousto-optic modulator to produce amplitude modulated pulses representing the digital data, the write pulse, and the read pulse, during the write and retrieve operation, respectively. The advantages of this approach are that memory can be stored in space, time, and frequency domain, allowing us to tailor a flexible memory architecture to match those of the computational processor.
Identification of Novel Inhibitors of Dietary Lipid Absorption using Zebrafish

Pharmacological inhibition of dietary lipid absorption induces favorable changes in serum lipoprotein levels in patients that are at risk for cardiovascular disease and is considered an adjuvant or alternative treatment with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). Here we demonstrate the feasibility of identifying novel inhibitors of intestinal lipid absorption using the zebrafish system. A pilot screen of an unbiased chemical library identified novel compounds that inhibited processing of fluorescent lipid analogues in live zebrafish larvae. Secondary assays identified those compounds suitable for testing in mammals and provided insight into mechanism of action, which for several compounds could be distinguished from ezetimibe, a drug used to inhibit cholesterol absorption in humans that broadly inhibited lipid absorption in zebrafish larvae. These findings support the utility of zebrafish screening assays to identify novel compounds that target complex physiological processes.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Indenoisoquinoline Topoisomerase I Inhibitors Substituted with Nitrogen Heterocycles

In connection with an ongoing investigation of indenoisoquinoline topoisomerase I (Top1) inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents, the pharmacophore possessing di(methoxy) and methylenedioxy substituents was held constant, and new derivatives were synthesized with nitrogen heterocycles appended to the lactam side chain. Compounds were evaluated for Top1 inhibition and for cytotoxicity in the National Cancer Institute's human cancer cell screen. Some of the more potent derivatives were also screened for in vivo activity in a hollow fiber assay. The results of these studies indicate that lactam substituents possessing nitrogen heterocycles can provide highly cytotoxic compounds with potent Top1 inhibition. Molecular modeling of these compounds in complex with DNA and Top1 suggests that some of the lactam substituents are capable of interacting with the DNA base pairs above and below the site of intercalation and/or with Top1 amino acid residues, resulting in increased biological activity.
TU-B-BRA-03: Pros and Cons of Flattening Filter Free IMRT: A Comparison with Conventional IMRT with Flattened Beams

Purpose: A new Varian machine, Trilogy MX with Flattening Filter Free (FFF) delivery mode at 6 MV and 10 MV, was installed at our institution. This study evaluates the performance of IMRTtreatment planning with FFF delivery mode. Method and Materials: The FFF delivery mode of our Trilogy MX is calibrated to deliver 1cGy/MU at the center of the 10×10cm2 field. A number of patients who were treated previously using conventional IMRT with flattened beams were re‐planed on the new machine with the new FFF beams. Both types of plans were done using Eclipse planning system. Step‐and‐shoot mode with 10 intensity levels was used for dose delivery. The isodose distribution, dose volume histogram (DVH), total MUs and total number of segments of the two IMRT plans for each patient were compared. Results:IMRTtreatment plans with FFF were found to be similar compared with conventional delivery for all the three tumor sites. For head and neck cases, slight degradations in dose coverage to tumors were observed, but they may not be clinically significant. For lung and prostate cases, plans with and without flattening filter are almost identical. However, total MUs are much larger for FFF delivery for all the cases due to the non‐flatness of the dose profile. MUs for FFF mode are 10–16% higher for lung and prostate cases, and more than 25% higher for head and neck cases. As much as 10% increase in number of segments was observed in head and neck cases. Conclusion: The quality of IMRTtreatment plans with FFF delivery is comparable to that of the conventional delivery mode, but treatments of large‐sized and complicate‐shaped tumors require more MUs. Treatments of small‐sized tumors benefit more from the use of FFF delivery. Conflict of Interest: Research funding support from Varian Medical System
Regenerating More Than Muscle in Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive muscle-wasting disorder of skeletal and cardiac muscle. Mutations in the dystrophin gene produce DMD, but much is still unknown about the pathophysiology of DMD. Dystrophic muscle is defined by replacement of normal myofibers by connective tissue and adipocytes. Normal skeletal muscle is highly regenerative and, in the face of continued degeneration, muscle regeneration in DMD is robust, although insufficient to match the pace of degeneration. The dystrophin protein is a subsarcolemmal, spectrin repeat–containing protein of skeletal muscle myofibers and cardiomyocytes. Dystrophin associates tightly with a constellation of transmembrane proteins forming the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC). Extracellularly, the DGC binds to laminin 2, and intracellularly, the DGC binds to cytoplasmic γ-actin, a myocyte-specific form of filamin and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Positioned at the plasma membrane, the DGC is a mechanosignaling complex that connects the extracellular matrix with the cytoskeleton, and dystrophin is central to this role.1 When dystrophin is absent, as is the case in DMD, the entire DGC is destabilized. The dissolution of the DGC produces plasma membrane instability associated with increased intracellular calcium and myofiber degeneration. See p 3341 The ongoing and widespread muscle degeneration in DMD produces a number of systemic responses. In the present issue of Circulation , Straino and colleagues2 now show that arteriogenesis is enhanced in mdx mice, a mouse model of DMD. Under ischemic conditions, an increase in hindlimb perfusion was seen in mdx as compared with control mice. As an explanation of increased perfusion, muscle from mdx mice was found to have longer arterioles compared with control muscle. Interestingly, capillary density was not increased, and the observed difference in blood flow was attributed solely to arteriole length differences consistent with enhanced arteriogenesis. Given the prominent regeneration that is a feature of mdx muscle, …
Performance evaluation of a wood-chip based biofilter using solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy–olfactometry

Abstract A pilot-scale mobile biofilter was developed where two types of wood chips (western cedar and 2 in. hardwood) were examined to treat odor emissions from a deep-pit swine finishing facility in central Iowa. The biofilters were operated continuously for 13 weeks at different air flow rates resulting in a variable empty bed residence time (EBRT) from 1.6 to 7.3 s. During this test period, solid-phase microextraction (SPME) PDMS/DVB 65 μm fibers were used to extract volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from both the control plenum and biofilter treatments. Analyses of VOCs were carried out using a multidimentional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–olfactometry (MDGC–MS–O) system. Results indicated that both types of chips achieved significant reductions in p -cresol, phenol, indole and skatole which represent some of the most odorous and odor-defining compounds known for swine facilities. The results also showed that maintaining proper moisture content is critical to the success of wood-chip based biofilters and that this factor is more important than media depth and residence time.
Longitudinal study of radiographic spinal osteoarthritis in a macaque model.

Cross-sectional analyses of naturally occurring spinal osteoarthritis (OA) in primates have shown that age and body mass are significant predictors, but whether or not these relationships hold true in longitudinal evaluations remains unclear. Because spinal OA manifests similarly in humans and monkeys and macaque monkeys age >3 times the rate of humans, macaque models offer opportunities for longitudinal study that are difficult in humans. Our objective was to characterize the longitudinal development over 11 years of spinal OA in 68 Macaca mulatta (41 males, 27 females, aged 11–32 years). Average disc space narrowing (DSN) and osteophytosis (OST) scores were computed for the thoracolumbar spine (T8–L7). Our longitudinal analyses confirmed the cross-sectional results: age and body mass (p < 0.001) significantly predicted 50% and 39% of the variability in OST and DSN, respectively. Rates of change in DSN, but not OST, were associated with age at first radiograph. This study represents the first long-term longitudinal assessment of OA in primates and establishes that the relationship among the covariates in the cross-sectional and longitudinal approaches is similar. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1152–1160, 2011
Gaskinetic Studies On Annular Rocket Plumes

D = diameter, m Kn = Knudsen number n = number density, m Pn = Legendre polynomials R1, R2 = inner and outer nozzle radii, m S0 = nondimensional gas exit speed ratio U0 √ β T = temperature, K U, V,W = macroscopic velocity components, m/s X, Z = coordinates, m β = 1/(2RT ), s/m γ = specific heat ratio θ = angle from plume centerline, nondimensional r, θ, φ = spherical coordinate variables Subscript 0 = exit properties
Compactly Supported, Piecewise Affine Scaling Functions on Triangulations

The methods of using intertwining MRAs to find orthogonal scaling functions have previously been applied to one-dimensional MRAs and are here extended to two-dimensional bases. Two examples are constructed from MRAs consisting of continuous, compactly supported, piecewise affine functions of two variables. The resulting scaling functions can be conveniently restricted to compact domains.
Adult Dispersal of Tenodera aridifolia sinensis (Mantodea: Mantidae)

Adult male and female mantids, Tenodera aridifolia sinensis Saussure, exhibited similar dispersal in a large, natural field population. Distance and frequency of movement of bee-tagged individuals was the same for each sex, and neither sex demonstrated a significant directional bias. Therefore, contrary to the findings of an earlier study, females can move as far on the ground as males can fly during their adult lives under natural circumstances. Neither males nor females moved farther than 70 m from the point at which they were originally tagged, which may explain the disjunct local distribution of this geographically widespread, introduced species.
Altered responses in serum calcium phosphorus and parathyroid hormone to oral calcium load in symptomatic and asymptomatic members of family with idiopathic hypercalcemia

Abstract A family of idiopathic hypercalciuria (IH), 3 symptomatic and 2 asymptomatic, plus 3 normal subjects were given the 1 Gm oral calcium challenge. Biochemical parameters measured included: serum and urinary calcium and phosphate, urinary cyclic AMP, and serum intact and carboxyl-terminal parathyroid hormone. Major differences between the normal control and the family with IH include: (1) higher calcemic response in the family with IH (0.9 vs 0.4 mg/dl); (2) a fall in carboxyl-terminal PTH and urinary cyclic AMP in the IH family in contrast to control subjects in whom there were no changes; (3) a rise in serum phosphorus in the IH family (0.8 vs 0.2 mg/dl, p
Spatial organization of intestinal microbiota in the mouse ascending colon

Complex microbial populations are organized in relation to their environment. In the intestine, the inner lining (mucosa) is a potential focal point for such organization. The proximal murine colon contains mucosal folds that are known to be associated with morphologically distinct microbes. To identify these microbes, we used the technique of laser capture microdissection (LCM) to sample microbes associated with these folds (interfold region) and within the central lumen (digesta region). Using 16S rRNA gene tag pyrosequencing, we found that microbes in the interfold region were highly enriched for the phylum Firmicutes and, more specifically, for the families Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae. Other families such as Bacteroidaceae, Enterococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae were all enriched in the digesta region. This high-resolution system to capture and examine spatial organization of intestinal microbes should facilitate microbial analysis in other mouse models, furthering our understanding of host–microbial interactions.