cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor phosphorylation in rat myotubes by forskolin and cAMP

Abstract The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AcChoR) from rat myotubes prelabeled in culture with [32P]orthophosphate was isolated by acetylcholine affinity chromatography followed by immunoaffinity chromatography. Under basal conditions, the nicotinic AcChoR was shown to be phosphorylated in situ on the beta and delta subunits. Regulation of AcChoR phosphorylation by cAMP-dependent protein kinase was explored by the addition of forskolin or cAMP analogues to prelabeled cell cultures. Forskolin, an activator of adenylate cyclase, stimulated the phosphorylation of the delta subunit 20-fold over basal phosphorylation and induced phosphorylation of the alpha subunit. The effect of forskolin was dose dependent with a half-maximal response at 8 microM in the presence of 35 microM Ro 20-1724, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Stimulation of delta subunit phosphorylation was almost maximal within 5 min, whereas stimulation of alpha subunit phosphorylation was not maximal until 45 min after forskolin treatment. Stimulation of AcChoR phosphorylation by 8-benzylthioadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate was identical to that obtained by forskolin. Two-dimensional thermolytic phosphopeptide maps of the delta subunit revealed a single major phosphopeptide. These results correlate closely with the observed effects of forskolin on AcChoR desensitization in muscle and suggest that cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of the delta subunit increases the rate of AcChoR desensitization in rat myotubes.
Bayesian Variable Selection in Linear Regression

Abstract This article is concerned with the selection of subsets of predictor variables in a linear regression model for the prediction of a dependent variable. It is based on a Bayesian approach, intended to be as objective as possible. A probability distribution is first assigned to the dependent variable through the specification of a family of prior distributions for the unknown parameters in the regression model. The method is not fully Bayesian, however, because the ultimate choice of prior distribution from this family is affected by the data. It is assumed that the predictors represent distinct observables; the corresponding regression coefficients are assigned independent prior distributions. For each regression coefficient subject to deletion from the model, the prior distribution is a mixture of a point mass at 0 and a diffuse uniform distribution elsewhere, that is, a “spike and slab” distribution. The random error component is assigned a normal distribution with mean 0 and standard deviation ...
On the generation of shelves by long nonlinear waves in stratified flows

The phenomenon of shelf generation by long nonlinear internal waves in stratified flows is investigated. The problem of primary interest is the case of a uniformly stratified Boussinesq fluid of finite depth. In analysing the transient evolution of a finite-amplitude long-wave disturbance, the expansion procedure of Grimshaw & Yi (1991) breaks down far downstream, and it proves expedient to follow a matched-asymptotics procedure: the main disturbance is governed by the nonlinear theory of Grimshaw & Yi (1991) in the'inner' region, while the'outer' region comprises multiple small-amplitude fronts, or shelves, that propagate downstream and carry O(1) mass. This picture is consistent with numerical simulations of uniformly stratified flow past an obstacle (Lamb 1994). The case of weakly nonlinear long waves in a fluid layer with general stratification is also examined, where it is found that shelves of fourth order in wave amplitude are generated. Moreover, these shelves may extend both upstream and downstream in general, and could thus lead to an upstream influence of a type that has not been previously considered. In all cases, transience of the main nonlinear wave disturbance is a necessary condition for the formation of shelves.
Radius Breaking Strength and Egg Characteristics of Laying Hens as Affected by Dietary Supplements and Housing

Abstract Three experiments conducted simultaneously on radius breaking strength and egg characteristics, were determined on White Leghorn hens housed 1 or 3 per cage, or in floor pens (Experiment 1, 2 and 3, respectively). Hens were fed diets containing supplements of Ca, P, vitamin D3 or metal proteinates. Hens fed the various supplements, in different combinations in Exp. 1 and 2, showed significant increases in bone strength over those fed the basal diet. Bone strengths from hens in Exp. 3, fed 3.78% Ca and 1.0% P, or 3.22% Ca and 0.65% P (floor pens) averaged 3.05 or 3.18 kg., respectively, and were not significantly different from one another. Bone strengths in Exp. 1 and 2, as a result of the supplements, were essentially equal to those of Exp. 3. Hen-day production, egg weight, albumen height, shell thickness and percent shell did not differ statistically, within the respective experiments, due to the dietary supplements. When the data from the three experiments were combined, production was significantly higher with hens housed 1 per cage than 3 per cage, and both the 1 and 3 per cage had significantly higher production than hens in floor pens. Egg weight and shell thickness of caged birds were significantly greater than those from hens in floor pens. Albumen height and percent shell did not differ significantly as a result of housing.
Manganese potentiates LPS-induced heme-oxygenase 1 in microglia but not dopaminergic cells: role in controlling microglial hydrogen peroxide and inflammatory cytokine output.

Abstract Excessive manganese (Mn) exposure increases output of glial-derived inflammatory products, which may indirectly contribute to the neurotoxic effects of this essential metal. In microglia, Mn increases hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) release and potentiates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and nitric oxide (NO). Inducible heme-oxygenase (HO-1) plays a role in the regulation of inflammation and its expression is upregulated in response to oxidative stressors, including metals and LPS. Because Mn can oxidatively affect neurons both directly and indirectly, we investigated the effect of Mn exposure on the induction of HO-1 in resting and LPS-activated microglia (N9) and dopaminergic neurons (N27). In microglia, 24 h exposure to Mn (up to 250 μM) had minimal effects on its own, but it markedly potentiated LPS (100 ng/ml)-induced HO-1protein and mRNA. Inhibition of microglial HO-1 activity with two different inhibitors indicated that HO-1 is a positive regulator of the Mn-potentiated cytokine output and a negative regulator of the Mn-induced H 2 O 2 output. Mn enhancement of LPS-induced HO-1 does not appear to be dependent on H 2 O 2 or NO, as Mn + LPS-induced H 2 O 2 release was not greater than the increase induced by Mn alone and inhibition of iNOS did not change Mn potentiation of HO-1. However, because Mn exposure potentiated the LPS-induced nuclear expression of small Maf proteins, this may be one mechanism Mn uses to affect the expression of HO-1 in activated microglia. Finally, the potentiating effects of Mn on HO-1 appear to be glia-specific for Mn, LPS, or Mn + LPS did not induce HO-1 in N27 neuronal cells.
The infrared spectrum of the matrix-isolated phenyl radical.

We have measured the infrared absorption spectrum of C6H5, X 2A1, in an Ar matrix at 10 K. The experimental frequencies (cm-1) and polarizations follow. a1 modes: 3086, 3072, 3037, 1581, 1441, 1154, 1027, 997, 976, 605; b1 modes: 972, 874, 706, 657, 416; b2 modes: 3071, 3060, 1624, 1432, 1321, 1283, 1159, 1063, and 587. Three different methods have been used for the production of the phenyl radicals. Infrared absorption spectra of five deuterated isotopomers, C6D5, p-C6H4D, p-C6HD4, o-C6H4D, and m-C6H4D, were recorded to compare experimental frequency shifts with calculated (UB3LYP/cc-pVDZ) harmonic frequency shifts. The use of CO2 or NO as internal standards enabled the experimental determination of absolute infrared intensities. The linear dichroism was measured with photooriented samples to establish experimental polarizations of each vibrational band. True gas-phase vibrational frequencies were estimated by considering the gas-to-matrix shifts and matrix inhomogeneous line broadening. The phenyl r...
Hypercoagulability in cats with cardiomyopathy.

Background: Arterial thromboembolism (ATE) is a common complication of feline cardiomyopathy; however, the pathogenesis of ATE is unknown. Hypothesis: Systemic activation of the coagulation cascade (hypercoagulability) and endothelial injury promote ATE in cardiomyopathic cats. Animals: Healthy cats (n = 30) and 3 groups of cardiomyopathic cats: Group (1) left atrial enlargement only (LAE [n = 11]), ie, left atrial to aortic ratio >1.4; Group (2) LAE with spontaneous echocardiographic contrast, atrial thrombi or both (SEC-T [n = 16]); and Group (3) acute ATE with LAE (n = 16). Methods: Hypercoagulability was defined by 2 or more laboratory abnormalities reflecting coagulation factor excess (high fibrinogen concentration or Factor VIII coagulant activity), inhibitor deficiency (low antithrombin activity), or thrombin generation (high thrombin-antithrombin complex [TAT] and d-dimer concentrations). High von Willebrand factor antigen concentration (vWF : Ag) was considered a marker of endothelial injury. Data were analyzed using nonparametric statistics. Results: The 3 groups of cats with cardiac disease had higher median fibrinogen concentrations than did the healthy cats. Criteria of hypercoagulability were found exclusively in cats with SEC-T (50%) and ATE (56%). Hypercoagulability was not associated with left atrial size or congestive heart failure (CHF). ATE cats had significantly higher median vWF : Ag concentration than did the other groups. Conclusinos and Clinical Importance: Systemic hypercoagulability is evident in many cardiomyopathic cats, often without concurrent CHF or overt ATE. Hypercoagulabilty may represent a risk factor for ATE. High vWF : Ag in ATE cats was attributed to downstream endothelial injury from the occlusive thrombus.
When Should Prophylactic Maze Procedure Be Considered in Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Surgery

Background Some patients are at high risk for late atrial fibrillation (AF) after mitral valve surgery, even without a prior history of arrhythmias. We examined the incidence and predictors of late AF in patients with functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) undergoing mitral valve repair. Methods From March 1995 to December 2005, 573 patients (375 men) with severe mitral regurgitation owing to leaflet prolapse and functional TR underwent mitral valve repair; 75 patients (13%) had greater than mild TR preoperatively. We excluded patients with preoperative AF or other cardiac disease. We assessed late rhythm status, and results were expressed as a time-related event. A separate cohort of patients undergoing tricuspid valve repair was compared. Results Cumulative risk of late AF was 11% at 5 years and 23% at 10 years (>mild preoperative TR, 23% versus p = 0.0007). In a multivariable model, the risk of late AF was independently associated with advanced age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.05), left atrial size greater than 50 mm (HR, 1.06), greater than mild preoperative TR (HR, 2.3), and diabetes (HR, 4.8). Patients undergoing tricuspid valve repair (n = 25) had a similar risk of late AF at 5 years (tricuspid valve surgery, 18% versus no tricuspid valve surgery, 23%; p = 0.439). When analyzed as a time-dependent risk factor, patients with late AF had decreased late survival (HR, 4.01; p = 0.001). Conclusions New, late-onset AF after mitral valve repair for leaflet prolapse is significantly increased in patients with greater degrees of preoperative TR, and late survival is subsequently decreased. To avoid the adverse consequences of late AF, the addition of surgical AF ablation may be warranted.
Proper orthogonal decomposition for reduced basis feedback controllers for parabolic equations

In this paper, we present a discussion of the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) as applied to simulation and feedback control of the one-dimensional heat equation. We provide two examples of input collections to which the POD process is applied. First, we apply POD directly to the finite element basis of linear B-splines. Next, we additionally include time snapshots. We show that although the second case provides better simulations, this POD basis is ill-suited for control problems. We provide a discussion of both the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) problem and the linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) problem.
Isolation and characteristics of a fungal endopeptidase

Abstract A proteolytic enzyme possessing the characteristics of an endopeptidase has been isolated from culture filtrates of the fungus, Phymatotrichum omnivorum . Electrophoretic data and enzymic assays indicate a high degree of homogeneity for the preparations, which contain no detectable exopeptidase activity. The proteinase exerts a higher degree of substrate specificity than is common for fungal proteolytic enzymes. It hydrolyzes esters of N-substituted l -tyrosine and l -phenylalanine, but not the corresponding unsubstituted esters; N-substituted arginine esters are attacked at a much slower rate, and amides of the N-substituted aromatic amino acids are not susceptible. Sequestering agents inhibit activity, which is restored by several divalent metal ions. Diisopropylphosphorofluoridate and phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride inhibit both the esterolytic and proteolytic activities. Ultracentrifugation indicates a molecular weight of approximately 33,000.
Automated and integrated system for high-throughput DNA genotyping directly from blood.

An automated and integrated system for DNA typing directly from blood samples has been developed. The multiplexed eight-array system is based on capillary microfluidics and capillary array electrophoresis. Three short-tandem-repeat loci, vWA, THO1, and TPOX, are coamplified simultaneously in a fused-silica capillary by a hot-air thermocycler. Blood is directly used as the sample for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) without any pretreatment. Modifications of standard protocols are necessary for direct PCR from blood. A programmable syringe pump plus a set of multiplexed liquid nitrogen freeze/thaw switching valves are employed for liquid handling in the fluid distribution network. The system fully integrates sample loading, PCR, addition of an absolute standard, on-line injection of sample and standards, separation and detection. The genotypes from blood samples can be clearly identified in eight parallel channels when the electropherograms are compared with that of the standard allelic ladder by itself. Re...
Effects of MgCl2 on the release and recycling of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in a rat parathyroid cell line

Abstract Divalent cations, such as Mg 2+ , Ba 2+ , and Co 2+ , are known to mimic the effects of Ca 2+ in parathyroid cells, but it is not clear whether the mechanism of their action is the same as that of Ca 2+ . We have shown that extracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] e ) regulates the distribution and recycling of cell-surface heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans in a rat parathyroid cell line; at normal to high [Ca 2+ ] e (e.g., 2 m m ) HS proteoglycans are primarily localized intracellularly, while at low [Ca 2+ ] e (0.05 m m ) they are translocated to the cell surface and rapidly recycle (Takeuchi, Y., Sakaguchi, K., Yanagishita, M., Aurbach, G. D., and Hascall, V. C., 1990, J. Biol. Chem. 265, 13661–13668). We now show that a high concentration of Mg 2+ (8 m m ) reduces the amount of recycling HS proteoglycans in low [Ca 2+ ] e . However, the primary effects of high Ca 2+ and high Mg 2+ on the recycling HS proteoglycans are different. High [Ca 2+ ] e causes translocation of HS proteoglycans to intracellular compartments, while high Mg 2+ stimulates cleavage of their core proteins and subsequent shedding of HS proteoglycans into the medium, thereby depleting the recycling molecules. However, high Mg 2+ does not induce shedding of HS proteoglycans in high [Ca 2+ ] e . The effects of Ba 2+ and Co 2+ were similar to those of Mg 2+ , but Sr 2+ showed no significant effects on HS proteoglycan translocation. Otherwise, 8 m m Mg 2+ did not alter biosynthesis or intracellular catabolism of HS proteoglycans. These observations suggest that the recycling of HS proteoglycans in parathyroid cells is sensitive only to [Ca 2+ ] e , whereas several other divalent cations can deplete the recycling HS proteoglycans by a distinctly different mechanism. Thus, the mechanism by which Ca 2+ regulates the amounts of the recycling HS proteoglycans may be more physiological and play a functional role in parathyroid Cells.
Measuring condensate fraction in superconductors

An analysis of off-diagonal long-range order in superconductors shows that the spin-spin correlation function is significantly influenced by the order if the order parameter is anisotropic on a microscopic scale. Thus, magnetic neutron scattering can provide a direct measurement of the condensate fraction of a superconductor. It is also argued that recent measurements in high-temperature superconductors come very close to achieving this goal. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
Simulators for assessing driving skills in demented patients.

This paper reviews the appropriate use of simulators to assess driving abilities in individuals with dementing illnesses. Several points are addressed: What is a driving simulator? What are the characteristics of a simulator? What are the strengths and weaknesses of various types of simulators? The potential role of driving simulators for predicting future driving safety is discussed. Language: en
Differences in methionyl- and arginyl-tRNA's of larval and adult bullforgs

Abstract Several transfer RNA's from blood cells of larval and adult Rana catesbeiana have been examined by chromatography on methylated albumin-kieselguhr columns. Striking differences between the larval and adult organisms were noted in both arginyl- and methionyl-tRNA's.
Uncoupling of the parathyroid hormone receptor-adenylate cyclase system of canine kidney during dietary phosphorus deprivation.

The mechanisms involved in the renal resistance to the phosphaturic action of PTH during dietary phosphorus deprivation remain ill defined. Previous studies in dogs from our laboratory demonstrated that baseline excretion of cAMP and the increment after administration of parathyroid extract were markedly reduced during dietary phosphorus deprivation. The present studies examine the initial events in the actions of PTH, namely receptor binding and adenylate cyclase activation, in renal cortical membranes from normal and phosphorus-deprived animals. Mongrel dogs were fed a diet deficient in phosphorus for 4–6 weeks. Plasma phosphorus fell from 4.2 ± 0.4 to 1.4 ± 0.3 mg/dl. In renal cortical membranes from these animals, basal adenylate cyclase activity was not different from that in control normal animals. However, PTH-stimulated enzyme activity was markedly reduced (5785 ± 303 pmol cAMP/mg protein-30 min in controls vs. 2612 ± 406 pmol cAMP/mg protein·30 min; P < 0.01). Kact (PTH concentration for half-max...
Enkephalin Convertase Demonstrated in the Pituitary and Adrenal Gland by 3HGuanidinoethylmercaptosuccinic Acid Autoradiography: Dehydration Decreases Neurohypophyseal Levels

[3H]Guanidinoethylmercaptosuccinic acid (GEMSA) autoradiography demonstrates the participate form of a carboxypeptidase B-like peptide processing enzyme, enkephalin convertase (EC 3.4.17.10), in the rat pituitary and adrenal glands. The maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) for [3H] GEMSA is 20 pmol/mg protein in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary, 12.0 pmol/mg protein in the posterior pituitary lobe, 15 pmol/mg protein in the anterior pituitary lobe, 5.8 pmol/mg protein in the adrenal medulla, and less than 0.3 pmol/mg protein in the adrenal cortex. The labeling pattern is homogeneous within each of these regions. Subcellular fractionation of the bovine adrenal medulla demonstrates that [3H]GEMSAbinding sites are localized to chromaffin granules. In Brattleboro rats and dehydrated rats, the level of posterior pituitary [3H] GEMSA binding is less than 25% of that in control animals. This decrease is abolished by arginine vasopressin treatment of Brattleboro rats or rehydration of dehydrated rats. The...
Hydrochemistry and solution rates in gypsum karst: case study from the Western Ukraine

The gypsum karst in the Western Ukraine spreads through a large territory covering more than 20,000 km2 and is represented by a range of stages (evolutionary types), from deep-seated through subjacent to entrenched. Correspondingly, hydrogeological settings of karst development, circulation patterns and chemical characteristics of groundwaters differ substantially between the respective areas. Based on 1,800 analyses, this paper summarises hydrochemistry of the gypsum-hosting Miocene aquifer. The majority of sampling has been performed in conjunction with a study regime of gypsum solution rates by means of standard tablets. In this study, which included 53 tablet stations representing varying conditions of water-rock interaction, 644 weight-loss measurements were made over the period 1984–1992. The highest rates are characteristic of entrenched karst although active dissolution is localised along well-defined sinking streams with short underground courses, rare vertical percolation paths and the water table. Lower but still quite substantial rates are characteristic of subjacent and deep-seated (confined) karst. However, the overall dissolution removal is greater due to higher flow through the gypsum and the larger area of rock-solvent contact. The results are generalised in order to derive the approximate solution rates characterising major situations and to be suitable for modeling purposes.
Genetic analysis of postsynaptic differentiation at the vertebrate neuromuscular junction

As neuromuscular junctions form in vertebrate skeletal muscle, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) become concentrated in the postsynaptic membrane. The nerve directs this redistribution, using multiple signals to regulate AChRs at both transcriptional and post-translational levels. Recent studies in vitro have led to the identification of candidate nerve-derived signaling molecules (such as agrin, ARIA/neuregulin, and calcitonin gene-related peptide) and components of their intramuscular signaling pathways (including dystroglycan, MuSK, erbB kinases, utrophin, and rapsyn). Studies of knock-out mice are now making it possible to test which signals and pathways are responsible for postsynaptic differentiation in vivo.
The stability of inequality

The stability of inequality is a source of distress to all sensitive egalitarians. This stability is particularly distressing in the face of measures which are designed to reduce inequality. In the United States, for instance, there is a strong egalitarian bias, which de Tocqueville pointed out many years ago, in the political and social spirit of the society, but in spite of this the relative distribution both of income and of capital has exhibited remarkable stability, at least in the last 25 years. Figure 1 shows this almost unbelievable stability in the relative income shares. Figure 2 suggests a similar stability in the distribution of capital, though it is harder to get complete data on this; of course if we include human capital, the situation becomes much more complicated.
Intelligence and fertility in the United States: 1912–1982

Abstract Results are presented for the first analysis of the relationship between IQ and completed fertility using a large, representative sample of the U.S. population. Correlations are predominantly negative for cohorts born between 1894 and 1964 but are significantly more positive for cohorts whose fertility was concentrated in the “baby boom” years. Previous studies reporting slightly positive correlations appear to have been biased in their restriction of samples to atypical cohorts.
Effects of biotin deficiency on carbohydrate metabolism

Abstract The interrelationship between insulin deficiency and biotin deficiency and its relation to carbohydrate metabolism has been studied. Severe biotin-deficient animals show no change in blood sugar levels. Administration of equal amount of anti-insulin serum increased the blood sugar levels to the same extent in normal and biotin-deficient animals, indicating insulin levels were unaltered in biotin deficiency. Oxidation of C 14 -glucose to CO 2 is also unaltered. C 14 O 2 incorporation into glucose is slightly decreased in biotin-deficient animals. Anti-insulin serum treated biotin-deficient animals show three- to fourfold increase in C 14 O 2 incorporation into glucose. Incorporation of 2-C 14 -acetate and 2-C 14 -propionate into glucose, glycogen, and CO 2 , and C 14 O 2 into glucose and glycogen is unaltered in biotin-deficient animals. However, there is a significant decrease in the incorporation of these substrates into long-chain fatty acids.
17β-estradiol suppresses expression of long-term depression in aged rats

It has been recently reported that the female steroid hormone 17β-estradiol enhances synaptic transmission and the magnitude of long-term potentiation (LTP) in adult rodent hippocampus. Moreover, 17β-estradiol ameliorates cognitive and memory function in postmenopausal women. Since aging is associated with an alteration of synaptic plasticity (e.g., higher susceptibility to long-term depression [LTD]), we examined whether 17β-estradiol alters the expression of LTD in aged rats. We now report that the induction of LTD recorded from CA1 hippocampal neurons of aged rats is suppressed by 17β-estradiol treatment, which produced only a minimal effect in suppressing LTD in adult rats. These results suggest that estrogen may act to improve memory by suppressing forgetfulness via a synaptic mechanism, such as LTD.
Discrimination of symmetrical and asymmetrical dot patterns by retardates.

Abstract Retarded children performed on a series of 6-trial dot pattern discrimination problems. Each pattern consisted of 16 or 32 dots in a 16 × 16 cell matrix. In constructing the patterns the same basic subpatterns were either mirrored or repeated to produce symmetrical or asymmetrical arrays with equal redundancy. Symmetry produced a strong facilitating effect on discriminability not predicted by conventional statistical measures of information. Alternative redundancy measures are considered. The effect of IQ (range: 29–82) was surprisingly large, but there were no differences due to MA (range: 4–8 yrs.). Interactions of individual differences with experimental factors are discussed.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of corn stunt spiroplasma in plant and insect tissues

An antiserum was prepared in rabbits against an isolate of corn stunt spiroplasma (CSS; I-747). The immunoglobulin of the antiserum was purified and conjugated with alkaline phosphatase by standard procedures and used in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Using ELISA, we were able to detect 0.01 μg of CSS protein/ml in pure culture. A strong color reaction was observed with CSS antiserum and CSS antigens, whereas withSpiroplasma citri and honeybee spiroplasma (AS-576) antigens the color reaction was very weak. No color reaction was observed with four other spiroplasmas,Mycoplasma gallisepticum, andAcholeplasma laidlawii. Antiserum against CSS with ELISA successfully detected CSS in diseased plants and insect vectors. Host plant and vector tissue had no detrimental effect on the reaction. With ELISA,Spiroplasma citri antiserum did not react positively with CSS-infected plant or insect tissue, whereas a positive color reaction was observed withS. citri-infected (“stubborn” disease) citrus plant samples.
SU-FF-T-433: TMR Ratio Method to Correct for SSD Changes in Prostate IGRT with IMRT Delivery

Purpose: In IGRT, couch shifts are needed to align the target to account for organ motion. In some rare cases treatment SSD may differ significantly (up to 1.0 cm) from the plan after these shifts. TMR ratio method is proposed to correct SSD changes so dosimetric accuracy of IGRT with IMRT delivery can be preserved. Method and Materials: A prostate patient CT was contoured in Eclipse TPS (Varian Medical Systems, v7.3) as test body. A bolus was added surrounding the body with either 1.0 cm or 2.0 cm thick bolus, (simulating 1.0 cm and 2.0 cm SSD change, respectively). An IMRT prostate clinical plan using 18 MV photons was exported to each of the three test bodies to create verification plans. TMRs were then read from our clinical data table according to different depths in the three test bodies. The TMR ratios were generated based on the non‐bolus plan. To apply the TMR ratio to the beams, the prescription percent isodose line in each plan was lowered by the corresponding TMR ratios to increase MUs. By doing this, all other treatment parameters, including dynamic MLC configuration were kept the same. The corrected plans were exported to corresponding bodies and doses were calculated. The DVHs of prostate and critical organs were then compared. Results: DVHs for prostate and critical organs were identical for all three scenarios after TMR ratio correction. Conclusion: The TMR ratio method was applicable for IMRT plans to correct for small SSD changes in IGRT. For regular IMRT plans, if SSD changes are caused by other reasons like weight loss, this method is still valid assuming PTV does not change. However, if SSD change is larger than 1.0 cm, it is prudent to re‐CT scan the patient and re‐calculate plan because the PTV might have changed.
Patterns of cerebral atrophy in HIV–1–infected individuals Results of a quantitative MRI analysis

Cerebral atrophy is a common radiologic manifestation of HIV dementia. To evaluate the relationship between cognitive impairment and cerebral atrophy, adjusting for age and immune status, we used standardized planimetry to measure the ventricle-brain ratio (VBR) and the bifrontal (BFR) and bicaudate (BCR) ratios, three measures of cerebral atrophy. We analyzed cranial MRIs of 23 HIV-1-seronegative controls (SN) and 116 HIV-1-infected individuals. Of the HIV-1-seropositive individuals, 37 had HIV dementia (DM group), 40 had neurologic or neuropsychological abnormalities insufficient for HIV dementia (NP+ group), and 39 were neurologically normal (NML group). We performed comparisons using analysis of covariance with correction for multiple comparisons. Both the VBR, a general measure of overall cerebral atrophy, and the BCR, a measure of atrophy in the region of the caudate nucleus, are significantly associated with dementia. The association is stronger for BCR enlargement than for VBR enlargement, suggesting that selective caudate region atrophy is associated with HIV dementia. These results indicate that overall cerebral atrophy and prominent caudate region atrophy are important radiographic features of HIV dementia.
Radionuclide imaging for vesico-renal reflux using intravenous 99mTc-D. T. P. A.

This study shows that Radionuclide imaging provides a simple method for detecting vesico-renal reflux in children, when an intravenous dose of 99mTc-D. T. P. A. is used as radioactive tracer. Forty-eight patients have been studied, of these twenty-eight also had intravenous pyelography with post-micturition films, micturating cystography, and cystoscopy. In this group of 28 patients the radionuclide imaging technique detected 25 refluxing ureters and 9 cases of bilateral vesico-renal reflux. Micturating cystography detected 12 refluxing ureters and only 3 cases were bilateral. Cystoscopy revealed 20 abnormal ureteric orifices and 6 patients had bilaterally abnormal orifices. Radionuclide imaging agreed with both the micturating cystograms and cystoscopic findings that reflux was occuring in 6 ureters. Radionuclide imaging agreed with the impression at cystoscopy that reflux was present in 18 ureters. Only 6 of the ureters diagnosed by micturating cystography as having reflux had abnormal ureteric openings at cystoscopy. The intravenous radionuclide imaging technique avoids the unpleasantness of catheterisation and its attendant risk of introducing infection. A lower dose of radiation is received than during radiological techniques. A renogram is obtained as part of the test. We believe this intravenous radionuclide imaging technique is a more “physiologically correct” test for vesico-renal reflux than any of the methods using catheterisation. Its limitations are that it is not so easy to use in hyperactive toddlers, nor does it give the anatomical definition that radiological techniques provide although improvements are expected with the latest gamma cameras and their associated equipment.
Online Screening and Referral for Postpartum Depression: An Exploratory Study

The fear and stigma associated with postpartum depression (PPD) is a major challenge in the treatment of this disease. Our goal is to develop innovative methods of screening women for the symptoms of PPD to facilitate referral and treatment. This study explores the efficacy of the Internet in reaching out to postpartum women in the convenience and privacy of their own homes, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. An exploratory study design was used to explore the feasibility and acceptability of online screening for PPD with postpartum women in the first 2–3 months after delivery (N = 18). In the first phase, a focus group was conducted with a small group of postpartum women; the second phase consisted of individual interviews of postpartum women in their homes; and in phase three, 10 women participated in the on-line screening intervention. PPD was measured using an online version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) a well-established instrument with reported alpha reliabilities (0.81–0.88) across studies and concurrent validity demonstrated using the gold standard, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition criteria for depression interview. Qualitative data collected from all the participants were also analyzed. The sample included women age 18–29; 70 % White/Caucasian, 50 % low income, and the majority living in rural areas. The EPDS scores ranged from 0 to 13 (mean 8.0; SD 4.76). Participants described the online PPD screening process as easy, straightforward and personalized and provided additional suggestions for improvement.
Volume production of negative hydrogen and deuterium ions in a reflex-type ion source☆

The extraction of negative and positive hydrogen and deuterium ions from a reflex-type negative ion source has been investigated. Extracted positive and negative ion currents were measured as functions of the gas flow rate, the axial magnetic field, and the bias potential of the cylindrical wall of the arc-chamber. By biasing the cylindrical wall several volts negative relative to the anode, a maximum H− current of 9.7 mA (J− ⋍ 100 mA/cm2) and D− current of 4.1 mA (J− ⋍ 42 mA/cm2) were obtained in steady state operation. This result shows a factor of two improvement over previous data. The total impurity negative ion content was less than 1%. When the source was arranged for positive ion extraction, a high proton ratio (90%) was observed. The extracted negative ion current was approximately as large as the positive ion current.
A note on the observation of viruses in the cells of infected plants.

Thin sections of plant tissue infected with two viruses have been examined on the electron microscope. The plants were Datura Stramonium and Brassica Chinensis (Chinese cabbage), infected respectively with tomato bushy stunt and turnip yellow mosaic viruses. Spherical particles of approximately the same size as the two viruses can be observed in the cells. If these particles are the actual virus, then the cells contain extremely large quantities, especially in the case of tomato bushy stunt.
In-house direct supervision by an attending is associated with differences in the care of patients with a blunt splenic injury

Background There continues to be controversy over the added value of direct supervision of residents, particularly its effect on patient outcomes. The purpose of this study was to compare direct and indirect resident supervision for the management of blunt spleen injuries and to evaluate differences in patient care. Methods All patients with blunt splenic injury admitted off hours over a 6.5-year period to a regional level I trauma center were analyzed. Data analyzed included patient demographics, injury characteristics, hospital course, and treatment modality. Direct supervision was defined as the presence of a surgical attending on call in the hospital. Indirect supervision was defined as the surgical attending taking the call from home. Primary analysis consisted of a comparison of outcomes and compliance with a protocol for nonoperative management (NOM) between these groups. Results There were 506 total cases, of which 274 (54%) were directly supervised, 157 (31%) had indirect supervision, and 75 (15%) presented when a fellow was the most senior person in house. The mean injury severity score was 21, patients averaged 34 years of age. The splenic salvage rate was 89.7% and the mortality rate was 8.5%. The primary comparison revealed a significantly higher percentage of patients going to operation with direct supervision. Direct supervision was associated with significantly greater protocol compliance for NOM (82% vs 95%; P Conclusion This study shows that there were significant differences in the management of blunt splenic injury depending on the type of supervision. Indirect supervision was associated with less compliance with a management protocol, fewer patients undergoing initial operation, more ICU use, increased hospital charges, and a greater use of splenic artery embolization without indication. These results emphasize the value of direct supervision in the management of a select group of trauma patients.
On the method of solution of the differential-delay Toda equation

Abstract The method of solution of the Toda differential-delay equation, which is a reduction of the Toda equation in 2+1 dimensions, is described. An important feature of the solution process is to obtain and study a novel Riemann-Hilbert problem. The latter problem requires factorization across an infinite number of strips with a suitable branching structure. Explicit soliton solutions are given.
Thermal infrared analysis of weathered granitic rock compositions in the Sacaton Mountains, Arizona: Implications for petrologic classifications from thermal infrared remote-sensing data

[1] Critical to spectral interpretations of geologic surfaces on the Earth and Mars is an understanding of the relationship between the composition of weathered rock surfaces and whole-rock mineralogy. In this study, thermal infrared spectroscopic and remote-sensing analyses were used to determine the composition of weathered granitoid rock surfaces in the Sacaton Mountains, Arizona. A linear spectral deconvolution approach was employed to determine the mineralogies of naturally exposed, weathered surfaces and artificially exposed, fresh rock surfaces. Deconvolution results from fresh rock surfaces yield similar bulk mineralogy to results from point counting of rock slabs and thin sections. Deconvolution of weathered rock spectra indicate that compared to fresh samples, weathered surfaces are deficient in plagioclase feldspar and are enriched in clay minerals. The differential weathering of feldspar minerals impacts the interpretation of whole-rock mineralogy and the spectral classification of bedrock geology, which, for plutonic rocks, is dependent on the relative proportions of different feldspars. Deconvolutions of multispectral remote-sensing or laboratory data show a deficiency of total feldspar in the weathered rock units but lack sufficient spectral resolution for the discrimination between different feldspars. These results demonstrate that the differential breakdown and removal of primary minerals in rock surfaces due to weathering can affect the interpreted rock petrology from remote-sensing studies. The relationships observed in our granitic samples could be applied to any rock type and may be important to consider for remote sensing of Mars.
President’s Column: Excellence and the Educational Researcher

forts to upgrade the teaching of the poor and the handicapped have been successful. This being so, he suggests, the time has come to shift our sights. One is at first inclined to think of pendulum swings. More seriously, one recalls the many discussions of equality and equity in American education, of the tension between what Green calls the "equal" principle and the "best" principle. Indeed, Green (1980) has suggested by hypothesis that they exist in a dialectical relationship to each other but "are most fully realized in circumstances that are inversely related" (p. 127). Discussing the desire for balance between the two principles, he writes that, on the one hand, we seek the best education for each individual and, on the other hand, the kind of education for some "that is not significantly different from what is provided to all the others." However, if we provide the kind of education that is best for each individual, there is no way of claiming that everyone receives the same education, even though it might conceivably be said that the education each one would receive under such conditions is as good as that which any other person would receive. This is not, obviously, what is ordinarily meant by the equal principle, which is understood to mean that everyone is in some sense entitled to the same education. Secretary Bell, whether he has thought it through in these terms or not, appears to be abandoning the equal principle as commonly understood. Green, being focally concerned about the fair distribution of educational benefits, has a far more complex and formal resolution of what is involved. Clearly, his book is one of a library of diverse studies having to do with equity, equality, and equal opportunity. It must be said, though, that Green's work deals more directly with pluralism, differentiation, and the matter of quality than any of the others. The Secretary of Education might well benefit by taking a look. In any case, this column (for all the writer's continuing preoccupation with the problem of equitable distribution) is not intended as a study of the matter of equity. Rather, it has to do with what is entailed by a concentration on excellence and what might be meant by the "vast renewal of the educatio al establishment" Bell believes might follow from this renewed concern. It is rather startling to see him oppose "maximum competencies" to minimum competency tests, as if those tests and the mastery of "basics" they were meant to assure were themselves inimical to excellence.
Pathobiology of breast cancer--treatment implications

In most patients (approximately 85%), breast cancer at the time of diagnosis is already a systemic disease. Multicentricity (20-40%) and synchronous (5-10%) and metachronous (15-30%) bilaterality are indicative of etiologically similar noxae. Ductal and lobular carcinoma in situ become invasive in approximately 50% of patients. Whereas ductal carcinoma in situ is mainly diagnosed clinically (lumpiness, tissue irregularity), lobular carcinoma in situ, a small, nonpalpable lesion, is usually discovered accidentally following biopsy for fibrocystic disease and/or suspicious mammography. Treatment of in situ and minimal (small invasive) breast cancer (less than or equal to 5 mm in diameter) is controversial, ranging from observation (lobular carcinoma in situ) over segmental excision to simple or radical mastectomy with or without lymphadenectomy and contralateral "mirror-image" biopsies. Long-term survival rates (90-95%) appear similar for patients with treated or untreated lobular carcinoma in situ. Patients with minimal breast cancer have as good a prognosis as those with ductal carcinoma in situ (long-term survival, 80-90%). Presently, a trend from radical to conservative surgery (lumpectomy, segmentectomy) is observed. Especially for in situ carcinoma, modified radical or even simple mastectomy may be considered overtreatment. For invasive carcinomas, lumpectomy and radiotherapy provide as good a chance of survival as radical mastectomy. Such equal survival indicates that although in 25% to 45% of patients with invasive carcinoma multifocal disease (in situ and invasive carcinoma) is left behind, subsequent radiotherapy is effective. Accordingly, patients with carcinoma in situ may be spared mutilating surgery in favor of radiotherapy. Because many patients at extraordinarily high risk of breast cancer cannot accept prophylactic mastectomy, thorough follow-up by clinical examination, mammography, sonography and biopsy is essential.
Direct detection and quantitation of He@C60 by ultrahigh-resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry.

In this paper, we report negative ion microelectrospray Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometry of C60 samples containing ∼1% 3He@C60 or 4He@C60. Resolving 3He@C60− and 4He@C60− from C60 containing 3 or 4 13C instead of 12C atoms is technically challenging, because the target species are present in low relative abundance and are very close in mass. Nevertheless, we achieve baseline resolution of 3He@C60− from 13C312C57− and 4He@C60− from 13C412C56− in single-scan mass spectra obtained in broadband mode without preisolation of the ions of interest. The results constitute the first direct mass spectrometric observation of endohedral helium in a fullerene sample at this (low) level of incorporation. The results also demonstrate the feasibility of determining the extent of He incorporation from the FT-ICR mass spectral peak heights. The present measurements are in agreement with those obtained by the pyrolysis method [1–3]. Although limited in sensitivity, the mass spectral method is faster and easier than pyrolysis.
Reprint of: Development of Arbitrary-Order Hermite Methods for Simulation and Analysis of Turbulent Jet Noise

Abstract In this short note a brief description of Hermite methods is given. Previous and ongoing development of arbitrary order Hermite methods for the simulation of turbulent jets is also presented. In addition we outline how Hermite methods can be hybridized with discontinuous Galerkin methods to handle boundary conditions in a straightforward way.
Day-night differences in the number of pineal “synaptic” ribbons in two diurnal rodents, the chipmunk (Tamias striatus) and the ground squirrel (Spermophilus richardsonii)

Daytime numbers of pineal “synaptic” ribbons higher than reported in the pineal gland of any other mammalian species were observed in two diurnal rodents, the eastern chipmunk and Richardson's ground squirrel. The number of “synaptic” ribbons was lower during the daytime and higher at night in both of these species.
Constituent scale and property effects on fibre ? matrix debonding and pull-out

An improved formulation for the pull-out problem is presented, that accounts for mechanical equilibrium at the embedded fibre end, and frictional interfacial forces in the debonded portion. The externally applied stress required to cause catastrophic pull-out is determined as a function of various parameters including the ratio of interfacial shear strength to the interfacial frictional stress. The effects of fibril bundles on stress transfer and initiation of debonding is also investigated and results are compared with those for single fibres. A comparison is made between the stress needed to cause intermediate non-catastrophic debonding with that needed for catastrophic debonding and subsequent pull-out. Some new results are presented which explain phenomenon from earlier experimental investigations, and which show the importance of the constituent scaling on the micromechanisms of damage under consideration.