cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Encapsulation of Aqueous Components in Solid Fat Beads: Studies of a Model Dye and a Probiotic Culture

Solid fat beads containing aqueous droplets of either a water soluble dye (Brilliant Blue) or a suspension of viable probiotic bacteria (Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis) were produced by dropping a water-in-molten fat emulsion into cold water or onto a cold plate, respectively. Hydrogenated palm stearin beads containing 20 % dye solution were 4.6 ± 0.2 × 2.7 ± 0.4 mm and the average bead weighed 0.0103 ± 0.0003 g. The dye was completely released into an external aqueous phase after 24 h stirring at temperatures above the melting point of the fat but at temperatures where the fat was solid very little dye was released into an external aqueous phase. When a bacterial suspension was used as the internal phase of 20 % hydrogenated palm stearin/80 % palm kernel oil beads, the beads contained 8.44 log CFU/g. The encapsulated organisms were more resistant to acid stress than an unencapsulated control (loss of 0.7 versus 5.75 log CFU/g). This approach offers a way to protect probiotic bacteria during transit through the stomach. Practical application: by encapsulating bacteria in solid fat they become more resistant to acids. Small beads could be added to foods or swallowed as a pill as a way to deliver viable probiotic organisms to the lower digestive tract.
Antecedentes familiares de suicidio consumado y características del trastorno depresivo mayor: Estudio STAR*D (sequenced treatment alternatives to relieve depression)

Objetivo Habitualmente, los medicos formulan preguntas a los pacientes con trastorno depresivo mayor (TDM) no psicotico sobre los antecedentes familiares de suicidio. Sin embargo, se desconoce si los pacientes con un familiar que consumo el suicidio difieren de los que no. Metodo Se recluto a los pacientes para el ensayo multicentrico STAR*D. En el periodo basal, se solicito a los pacientes que refirieran si algun familiar en primer grado habia fallecido por suicidio. Se evaluaron las diferencias en las caracteristicas demograficas y clinicas de pacientes con y sin antecedentes familiares de suicidio. Resultados Entre los pacientes con antecedentes familiares de suicidio (142/4.001; 3,5%), fue mas probable identificar antecedentes familiares de TDM, trastorno bipolar o cualquier trastorno del humor y trastorno familiar por consumo de sustancias, pero no pensamientos suicidas, comparado con aquellos sin dichos antecedentes. El grupo con antecedentes de suicidio de un familiar manifesto una vision mas pesimista del futuro y el TDM se inicio a una edad mas temprana. No se detectaron otras diferencias significativas en los sintomas depresivos, gravedad, recurrencia, subtipo depresivo o funcion diaria. Conclusiones Los antecedentes de suicidio consumado en un miembro de la familia se asociaron con diferencias clinicas minimas en la presentacion transversal de pacientes ambulatorios con TDM. Las limitaciones del presente estudio incluyen la ausencia de informacion sobre familiares que hubieran intentado suicidarse, al igual que la edad de los probandos cuando fallecio el miembro de la familia. Las evaluaciones STAR*D se limitaron a las necesarias para determinar el diagnostico y la respuesta al tratamiento y no incluyeron una variedad mas amplia de medidas psicologicas.
Software reliability in real-time systems

This paper investigates techniques to enhance the continuity of operations of the enroute air traffic control system. First the issues of software reliability and fault tolerance in realtime systems are discussed. Next, a list of problems associated with nonstop operations of flight dataprocessing (FDP) subsystem of the enroute air traffic control system are assumed, based on limited knowledge of the system; and possible solutions are suggested and analyzed. Implementation issues of recovery block scheme such as architecture, design of alternates and acceptance tests, and cost vs. reliability are studied. Four architectures of recovery block scheme are analyzed, and results of a simulation study using flight data processing subsystem as a test case are discussed.
Transgenerational, ultrastructural analysis on the antioxidative effects of tocopherol on early gametogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans grown in 100% oxygen.

Abstract The random, free-radical-mediated oxidations of biological molecules result in membrane degradation leading to cellular deterioration (B. Halliwell, Free Radical Res. Comrnun.9, 1-32, 1990). External oxygen, prooxidants, and internally produced oxygen free radicals (oxyradicals), interact and alter the nature of biomembranes. Antioxidants, e.g., tocopherol (Vitamin E), inhibit such oxidative damage of free radicals. In the present study, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans was grown under hyperoxia (100% oxygen) with or without the addition of Vitamin E to the growth media. The nematodes were viable under such conditions for at least eight generations, although fecundity gradually decreased through successive generations, presumably due to genetic load. Vitamin E was also shown to have a protective effect against paraquat, which is a strong, intracellular, oxidizing agent. Ultrastructural observations of early mejosis showed that the formation of synaptonemal complexes was compromised and that the telomeres failed to attach to the nuclear envelope. Those nematodes grown in 100% oxygen with 200 μg/ml Vitamin E had normal meiotic structures and normal fecundity. Thus, the presence of enhanced levels of intracellular Vitamin E resulted in protection against oxidative stress during gametogenesis.
Induction of neutralizing antibodies in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) after administration of a killed West Nile virus vaccine.

In 2002, West Nile virus (WNV) infection with clinical neurologic disease and encephalomyelitis was described in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus). The susceptibility of reindeer to WNV prompted questions concerning vaccination of reindeer to prevent WNV infection. Between January and April 2003, eleven 2–4-yr-old, castrated male reindeer, some of which had antibody titers suggestive of prior exposure to WNV, were vaccinated three times at 4-wk intervals with a commercially available vaccine approved for use in horses. No adverse reactions to vaccination were noted. All vaccinated reindeer developed high neutralizing antibody titers to WNV, as determined by the plaque reduction neutralization test. Reindeer without antibody titers from previous natural exposure to WNV required a primary vaccination and one or two booster vaccinations for development of neutralizing antibody to WNV. Protective efficacy of vaccination was not evaluated. Vaccination of reindeer for WNV may be warranted in certain circumstances co...
New Insights into the Catalytic Activation of the MAPK Phosphatase PAC-1 Induced by its Substrate MAPK ERK2 Binding

PAC-1 is an inducible, nuclear-specific, dual-specificity mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase phosphatase that has been shown recently to be a transcription target of the human tumor-suppressor protein p53 in signaling apoptosis and growth suppression. However, its substrate specificity and regulation of catalytic activity thus far remain elusive. Here, we report in vitro characterization of PAC-1 phosphatase activity with three distinct MAP kinase subfamilies. We show that the recombinant PAC-1 exists in a virtually inactive state when alone in vitro ,a nd dephosphorylates extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) but not p38a or c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase 2 (JNK2). ERK2 dephosphorylation by PAC-1 requires association of its amino-terminal domain with ERK2 that results in catalytic activation of the phosphatase. p38a also interacts with but does not activate PAC-1, whereas JNK2 does not bind to or cause catalytic activation by PAC-1. Moreover, our structure-based analysis reveals that individual mutation of the conserved Arg294 and Arg295 that likely comprise the phosphothreonine-binding pocket in PAC-1 to either alanine or lysine results in a nearly complete loss of its phosphatase activity even in the presence of ERK2. These results suggest that Arg294 and Arg295 play an important role in PAC-1 catalytic activation induced by ERK2 binding. q 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Estimation of parameters in transcapillary fluid movement by digital simulation.

A modified computer model of the terminal vascular bed is presented. The capillary model consists of two parts; the arterial and venous capillary segments in series with the corresponding resistances. A third segment, in parallel with the capillary, represents the varying volume interstitial space. In addition to equations describing the fluid flow between the various segments, the dynamics of protein-mass flow are described. In contrast to models described by earlier investigators, the plasma osmotic pressure πPL is also a variable. Thus, small changes in πPL due to variations in venous pressure could be detected. The percentage increase in πPL per mm Hg increase in venous pressure has an average value of 0·255% per mm Hg. Finally, a hysteresis phenomenon was demonstrated while increaseing and decreasing extravascular tissue volume; the total simulated energy expenditure was EH=1·542 mm Hgx ml for a venous pressure change from 5 to 20 mm Hg.
A model of properties of compliance‐gaining strategies

This paper intends to induce a set of properties that unify and distinguish compliancegaining strategies and to determine whether coders can reliably classify messages on the basis of the proposed properties. The first goal was accomplished by deriving codified strategies from open‐ended responses of subjects to persuasive situations. Properties that reflected differences in the strategies were induced. The second goal had three coders content‐analyze the original responses in terms of the derived properties. Measures of unitizing and coder reliability and content validity were assessed. In addition, information concerning representational validity was presented. The approach taken in this paper provides us with an assessment of the state of affairs found in a compliance‐gaining strategy.
A Bird's-Eye View of MeCP2 Binding

In this issue of Molecular Cell, work from Skene, Bird, and colleagues reexamines MeCP2 function in the brain by characterizing the abundance and distribution of MeCP2 protein in mouse neurons and its role in regulating chromatin structure (Skene et al., 2010).
A Case Study in the Molecular Interpretation of Optical Kerr Effect Spectra: Instantaneous-Normal-Mode Analysis of the OKE Spectrum of Liquid Benzene†

The ease with which optical Kerr effect (OKE) spectroscopy manages to sample dynamics in the far-infrared would seem to makes it a rather attractive way of doing intermolecular spectroscopy on liquids. However, molecular-level calculations of such spectra are still far less common than microscopically ill-defined phenomenological fits. As a result, there are comparatively few liquids whose OKE spectra have ever been interpreted in any genuinely molecular fashion. In this paper we explore the OKE spectrum of an experimentally well-studied liquid, liquid benzene, at a fully microscopic level by making use of molecular dynamics simulation and an instantaneous-normal-mode analysis. As has often been noted, the long-time tail of the OKE signal is quantitatively accounted for by rotational diffusion (albeit a collective diffusion). Moreover, consistent with the usual expectations, the interaction-induced portion of the remaining signal (which we show to arise almost entirely from center-of-mass translation in this example) appears only at low frequency. However, contrary to the common assumptions, rotational dynamics, often strongly coupled with translational dynamics, contributes over the entire spectral range. The unusual shape of the experimental benzene OKE spectra is shown to arise from the presence of an especially large ratio of rotational to translational bandwidths, an explanation that may account for the similar spectra seen with numerous other planar molecules. Having a molecular-level picture also allows us to point out that there is no need to invoke any kind of hypothetical benzene aggregates in order to explain benzene's OKE spectrum. Benzene and related aromatics are simple liquids whose dynamics, as well as structure, depend largely on repulsive forces and molecular shape.
Intravitreal dexamethasone implant for acute exudative polymorphous vitelliform maculopathy.

PURPOSE Acute exudative polymorphous vitelliform maculopathy is a rare retinal disease characterized by bilateral serous macular detachment and subretinal accumulation of yellowish deposits resembling Best dystrophy lesions. Corticosteroid systemic therapy has been used empirically in the attempt to treat this retinal disorder with mixed results. Thus, the benefit of corticosteroid remains undetermined. To our knowledge, we report the first case of acute exudative polymorphous vitelliform maculopathy (AEPVM) treated in one eye with intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex; Allergan, Inc., Irvine, California, USA). METHODS A 28-year-old man with AEPVM underwent intravitreal dexamethasone implantation in the left eye. RESULTS Compared with the fellow eye, intravitreal dexamethasone implant did not significantly modify the clinical course of the disease. No implant-related complication was experienced during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The lack of response to intravitreal dexamethasone seems to suggest that corticosteroids may be ineffective for the treatment of AEPVM.
Leading for creativity: The role of unconventional leader behavior

Abstract This paper examines the relationship between a leader's unconventional behavior and followers' creative performance at both the individual and group level in an experimental setting. Our results indicate that after transformational leadership and individual intrinsic motivation for creativity are controlled for, unconventional leader behavior (e.g., standing on furniture, hanging ideas on clotheslines) significantly interacts with follower perceptions of the leader as a role model for creativity to explain follower creativity. Results also suggest that unconventional behavior explains variance in group cohesion above and beyond transformational leadership, and that group cohesion interacts with group intrinsic motivation to explain group creative performance. Academic and practitioner implications are discussed, as are avenues for future research in this area.
Multi-dimensional systolic networks, for discrete fourier transform

In this paper the problem of computing the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) in VLSI is considered. We describe an approach to extend the linear systolic array algorithm to the multidimensional systolic network algorithm. The proposed networks is based on the pipeline design and have regular structure. Among them the mesh-connected network matches, with a small factor, the known theoretical Ω(n2) lower bound to the (area × time2) measure of complexity in the planar VLSI.
The Frequency, Variation, and Function of Graphical Representations within Standardized State Science Tests

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent that diagrammatic literacy is necessary for success on standardized science tests at the late-elementary and middle grade levels. Towards this goal, we quantified the frequency, form and function of graphical representations on select state science tests. 985 tests items from 14 states were analyzed with 52.7% of the test items including graphical representations. The majority of these graphics, 79.5%, contained information that was essential for correctly answering the questions. The paper also discussed the trends of graphical representations in grade levels and alignment to national standards, following with teacher-implications.
The primordial abundance of4He: An update

We include new data in an updated analysis of helium in low-metallicity extragalactic H II regions with the goal of deriving the primordial abundance of 4He (YP). We show that the new observations of Izotov et al. are consistent with previous data. However, they should not be taken in isolation to determine YP, owing to the lack of sufficiently low-metallicity points. We use the extant data in a semi-empirical approach to bounding the size of possible systematic uncertainties in the determination of YP. Our best estimate for the primordial abundance of 4He assuming a linear relation between 4He and O/H is YP = 0.230 ? 0.003(stat) based on the subset of H II regions with the lowest metallicity; for our full data set we find YP = 0.234 ? 0.002(stat). Both values are entirely consistent with our previous results. We discuss the implications of these values for standard big bang nucleosynthesis (SBBN), particularly in the context of recent measurements of deuterium in high-redshift, low-metallicity QSO absorption-line systems.
Electron distribution within bis(quinone)ruthenium complexes. Structural characterization on delocalized (bipyridine)bis(quinone)ruthenium and on the localized trans-bis(3-chloropyridine)bis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-1,2-semiquinone)ruthenium(III) cation

Abstract Structural information obtained on complexes containing semiquinone and catecholate ligands has provided insights on charge distribution. Ligand CO lengths found for trans-Ru(4-t-Bupy)2(DBQ)2 averaged 1.321(5) A, midway between values of 1.34 and 1.29 A expected for localized catecholate and semiquinone ligands. This value may arise from crystallographic disorder of a localized RuIII(SQ)(Cat) species or it may result from charge delocalization over both quinone ligands. Crystallographic characterization of Ru(bpy)(Q)2, where Q is the unsubstituted o-quinone ligand, has shown that the complex molecule crystallizes without imposed symmetry on the molecule, in a crystal structure that places both quinone ligands in different solid-state environments. The four independent CO lengths average 1.321(5) A, without significant variation, strongly suggesting charge delocalization over both quinone ligands. Characterization on the trans-Ru(3-Clpy)2(DBQ)2+ cation, formed by one-electron oxidation of a neutral species that would be expected to show ligand charge delocalization, has shown ligand CO lengths of 1.293(4) A, exactly the value expected for semiquinone ligands. Oxidation of the neutral complex appears to occur at a ligand delocalized electronic level to give a ligand localized bis(semiquinone) product, RuIII(SQ)2+.
Extraosseous plasmacytomas causing extrahepatic cholestasis and cardiac tamponade. A unique case of multiple myeloma.

The authors describe an unusual case of multiple myeloma in whom extraosseous plasmacytomas caused extrahepatic cholestasis and cardiac tamponade. As in several other reports of extraosseous plamacytomas, an IgA paraprotein was present and its possible significance is discussed.
Material properties of cobweb silk from the black widow spider Latrodectus hesperus.

Abstract We present the material analysis of scaffolding silk from the cobweb of the black widow spider Latrodectus hesperus. 30 strands were tested from the webs of nine spiders. Strands were stretched at 0.211 mm/s as force and extension were recorded. Cross-sectional area was measured under 1000× oil-immersion light microscopy. The stress–strain curve shows that cobweb silk is a distinct material from other known spider silks. The average breaking point for this cobweb silk is 1.1±0.5 GPa at 0.22±0.05 strain. All samples increased stiffness as they were stretched, but to different extents. Variation in stiffness might be due to differential crystallization or alignment of the silk proteins during stretching.
Mechanical properties of glass fiber composites with an epoxy resin modified by a liquid crystalline epoxy

The effect of liquid crystalline networks on epoxy + glass fiber composites is investigated. The matrix obtained from in-situ curing of liquid crystalline (LC) diglycidyl ether of 4,4-dihydroxybiphenol (DGE-DHBP) with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F (DGEBP-F) by anhydride curing agent was used as the matrix for polymer composites. Impact, tensile, and flexural testing results are compared between the unmodified and modified systems. The interlaminar fracture toughness of commposites in the shear mode was determined by end notch flexure (ENF) tests. Scanning electron microscopy is used to study the fracture surfaces to understand the mechanism of fracture and interphase formation between the fiber and the matrix.
A Relation Between Almost Automorphic and Levitan Almost Periodic Points in Compact Minimal Flows

We establish relations between the notions of almost automorphic, Levitan almost periodic and regularly almost periodic points in compact minimal flows for the case of the acting groups whose all continuous characters have syndetic kernels. In particular, we generalize and give a new proof of a theorem by Bronstein.
In situ Rapid-Scan Spectrophotometry of Solution-Phase Species Generated on the Surface of a Rotating Disk Electrode

A rapid scan spectrophotometer has been coupled to a rotating disk electrode (RDE) to enable acquisition of potential difference near normal incidence UV-visible reflection absorption spectra of electrogenerated species in the diffusion boundary layer. The (correlated) noise associated with the wobbling of the RDE and other imperfections could be eliminated by synchronizing the rotation angle of the disk, with respect to an arbitrary fixed point, and the initiation of each spectral scan. This strategy was implemented by employing a signal generated by an optical sensor coupled to the rotating shaft as a primary source to drive the grating/galvanometer unit of a Harrick rapid scan spectrophotometer
Model helicopter rotor impulsive noise

An investigation of helicopter rotor blade slap was performed on a 1·27 m diameter model rotor. The rotor blades were a NACA 0012 section with a −8° linear twist. The experiments were conducted in the M.I.T. Anechoic Wind Tunnel. The effects of number of blades, blade pitch, advance ratio, and shaft angle on the generation and intensity of blade slap have been investigated. The effect of each parameter was determined by varying the parameter of interest while keeping the other constant. The rotor tip speeds of the tests performed in this study were limited to approximately Mach 0·4. The directivity associated with the blade slap signature was measured. The results of this investigation are based on a subjective definition of blade slap.
Sodium Hydroxide Pretreatment of Switchgrass for Ethanol Production

Lignocellulose-to-ethanol conversion is a promising technology to supplement corn-based ethanol production. However, the recalcitrant structure of lignocellulosic material is a major obstacle to the efficient conversion. To improve the enzymatic digestibility of switchgrass for the fermentable sugar production in hydrolysis, sodium hydroxide pretreatment of the biomass feedstock was investigated. At 121, 50, and 21 °C, raw switchgrass biomass at a solid/liquid ratio of 0.1 g/mL was pretreated, respectively, for 0.25−1, 1−48, and 1−96 h at different NaOH concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0%, w/v). Pretreatments were evaluated based on the yields of lignocellulose-derived sugars in the subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis. At the best pretreatment conditions (50 °C, 12 h, and 1.0% NaOH), the yield of total reducing sugars was 453.4 mg/g raw biomass, which was 3.78 times that of untreated biomass, and the glucan and xylan conversions reached 74.4 and 62.8%, respectively. Lignin reduction was closely related to the ...
Optical Studies of Defect Structures in Cadmium Sulfide and Cadmium Selenide

Several optical techniques have been used to study defect structures in cadmium sulfide and cadmium selenide. The results are compared with corresponding and ancillary electron optical work. A discussion of the etching characteristics of these materials is given. The results suggest coherent phase precipitation in copper-doped samples and support Gilman’s explanation of etch step generation.
Changes in meal frequency alter iron absorption efficiency in rats

Abstract There is no standard procedure in regard to the type or feeding pattern of prestudy diet in studies on determinations of iron bioavailability. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of meal frequency on the absorptive capacity of mucosal cells. Male Wistar rats were assigned to three groups of ten rats each and fed 12 g of diet daily for three days. The food allotment was provided in either one meal (M1) daily (70 mg Fe / kg diet), four meals (M4) daily (70 mg Fe / kg diet), or a single meal for one day (210 mg Fe / kg diet) followed by single low-iron meals (9.4 mg Fe / kg diet) for two days (MX). The rats were then deprived of food for 18 hours, administered 59 Fe by gavage, and killed ten hours later. Absorption was estimated as the 59 Fe retained in carcass without the gastrointestinal tract. Mucosal cells from the duodenum were isolated by mechanical vibration and mucosal ferritin determined by an immunoassay method. The effect of meal frequency on absorption efficiency of 59 Fe was significant and independent of liver iron stores. Absorption of 59 Fe dose was higher in rats fed four meals daily (42.2 ± 5.2%) than those fed one meal daily (27.1 ± 2.7%), but rats fed a single meal for one day then iron-deficient meals for two days absorbed significantly more 59 Fe (64.8 ± 4.8%) than did rats in the other groups. These data indicate that the frequency of iron consumed in a short-term period alter the efficiency of iron absorption in rats. Iron status of mucosal cells alone, as determined by mucosal ferritin, cannot explain the variations in iron absorption.
Differential associations of sex and D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) genotype with negative affect and other substance abuse risk markers in children of alcoholics.

Children of alcoholics have increased risk for substance abuse problems. Self-medication of negative affect may be one developmental path to future substance abuse. Because the 146 young (adolescent) children of alcoholics in the current sample had not used enough abused substances to study substance use directly, the relation of substance abuse risk markers to negative affect was assessed. Because the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) A1 allele has been associated with alcoholism and other substance use disorders, negative affect, measured by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), was determined in four groups of children: boys and girls with the A1+ allele (A1A1 and A1A2 genotypes) and with the A1- allele (A2A2 genotype). The other risk markers were stress, low amplitude of the P300 evoked potential, poor visuospatial functioning, novelty seeking (NS), and harm avoidance (HA). Stress was correlated with BDI scores in all groups. In contrast, low P300 was associated with BDI scores only in boys with the A1+ allele (P = .04), NS was associated with BDI scores only in girls with the A1+ allele (P = .02), and HA was associated with BDI scores only in boys with the A1- allele (P = .01). In addition, boys with the A1+ allele had lower BDI (P = .05) and HA (P = .005) scores than the respective scores for boys with the A1- allele. Girls with the A1- allele had lower HA scores compared with scores for boys with the A1- allele (P = .02). Girls with the A1+ allele had lower visuospatial functioning than that of boys with the A1+ allele (P<.001). Results indicate that both sex and DRD2 genotype modify associations between negative affect and other substance abuse risk markers.
Moist Static Energy Budget of MJO-like Disturbances in the Atmosphere of a Zonally Symmetric Aquaplanet

AbstractA Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO)-like spectral feature is observed in the time–space spectra of precipitation and column-integrated moist static energy (MSE) for a zonally symmetric aquaplanet simulated with Superparameterized Community Atmospheric Model (SPCAM). This disturbance possesses the basic structural and propagation features of the observed MJO.To explore the processes involved in propagation and maintenance of this disturbance, this study analyzes the MSE budget of the disturbance. The authors observe that the disturbances propagate both eastward and poleward. The column-integrated longwave heating is the only significant source of column-integrated MSE acting to maintain the MJO-like anomaly balanced against the combination of column-integrated horizontal and vertical advection of MSE and latent heat flux. Eastward propagation of the MJO-like disturbance is associated with MSE generated by both column integrated horizontal and vertical advection of MSE, with the column longwave heatin...
Material transport in laser‐heated diamond anvil cell melting experiments

A previously undocumented effect in the laser-heated diamond anvil cell, namely, the transport of molten species through the sample chamber, over distances large compared to the laser beam diameter, is presented. This effect is exploited to determine the melting behavior of high-pressure silicate assemblages of olivine composition. At pressures where beta-spinel is the phase melted, relative strengths of partitioning can be estimated for the incompatible elements studied. Iron was found to partition into the melt from beta-spinel less strongly than calcium, and slightly more strongly than manganese. At higher pressures, where a silicate perovskite/magnesiowuestite assemblage is melted, it is determined that silicate perovskite is the liquidus phase, with iron-rich magnesiowuestite accumulating at the end of the laser-melted stripe.
Computational Models for Simulating Multicomponent Aerosol Evaporation in the Upper Respiratory Airways

An effective model for predicting multicomponent aerosol evaporation in the upper respiratory system that is capable of estimating the vaporization of individual components is needed for accurate dosimetry and toxicology analyses. In this study, the performance of evaporation models for multicomponent droplets over a range of volatilities is evaluated based on comparisons to available experimental results for conditions similar to aerosols in the upper respiratory tract. Models considered include a semiempirical correlation approach as well as resolved-volume computational simulations of single and multicomponent aerosol evaporations to test the effects of variable gas-phase properties, surface blowing velocity, and internal droplet temperature gradients. Of the parameters assessed, concentration-dependent gas-phase specific heat had the largest effect on evaporation and should be taken into consideration for respiratory aerosols that contain high volatility species, such as n-heptane, at significant conc...
Abstract IA07: New functions for histone modifying enzymes

Histone modifying enzymes are important creating and maintaining epigenetic programs that regulate cell identity and growth. Mutations or abnormal expression of these proteins are associated with multiple cancers. Our lab uses genetic approaches to define the full spectrum of functions for these enzymes. For example, we have created a series of mutations in the mouse Gcn5 gene in order to define the functions of this histone acetyltransferase (HAT) in a mammalian system. Deletion of Gcn5 led to early embryonic death and to telomere dysfunction. Biochemical studies revealed that depletion of Gcn5 or ubiquitin specific protease 22 (Usp22), which is another bona fide component of the Gcn5-containing SAGA-type complex, increases the turnover of two shelterin proteins, TRF1 and POT1a (Atanassov, 2009). Our studies provided the first indication that Gcn5 and mammalian SAGA influence telomere maintenance and the first demonstration that SAGA affects protein stability. We are now defining the role of Gcn5 and SAGA in maintenance of pluripotency in ES cells and ES cell differentiation. Our data indicate that Gcn5 is an important cofactor for both Myc and E2F family transcription factors. We are also identifying additional USP22 protein substrates and are defining USP22 functions during mouse development. We have also discovered unexpected functions for the Set1 lysine methyltransferase, which is highly homologous with the MLL protein, during mitosis. We found that Set1 methylates kinetochore proteins, such as Dam1, in yeast, and we have determined that H2Bub is required in trans for methylation of this protein. This work provides the first example of cross talk between a histone modification and a modification in a non-histone protein, defining a new mode of “chromatin signaling.” Zhang K, Lin W, Latham JA, Riefler GM, Schumacher JM, Chan C, Tatchell K, Hawke DH, Kobayashi R, Dent SY. The Set1 methyltransferase opposes Ipl1 aurora kinase functions in chromosome segregation. Cell 122(5):723-34, 9/2005. PMCID: PMC1794220 Atanassov BS, Evrard YA, Multani AS, Zhang Z, Tora L, Devys D, Chang S, Dent SY. Gcn5 and SAGA Regulate Shelterin Protein Turnover and Telomere Maintenance. Mol Cell 35(3):352-364, 8/2009. PMCID: PMC2749492. Atanassov BS, Dent SY. USP22 regulates cell proliferation by deubiquitinating the transcriptional regulator FBP1. EMBO Rep 12(9):924-30, 9/2011. e-Pub 9/2011. PMCID: PMC3166460. Latham JA, Chosed RJ, Wang S, Dent SY. Chromatin signaling to kinetochores: Trans-regulation of Dam1 methylation by histone H2B ubiquitination. Cell 146(5):709-19, 9/2011. PMCID: PMC3168986. Citation Format: Sharon Y.R. Dent, Boyko Atanassov, Calley Hirsch, Evangelia Koutelou, John Latham. New functions for histone modifying enzymes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Chromatin and Epigenetics in Cancer; Jun 19-22, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(13 Suppl):Abstract nr IA07.
Material transport during sintering of materials with the fluorite structure

Abstract The sintering rate of thoria powder compacts and of compacts of other fluorite structure materials has been investigated during the initial period of rapid densification. The densification rate, determined as a function of temperature with temperature increasing at controlled rates, increases to a maximum, decreases to a minimum and then rises again. Except under extreme conditions, compacts brought to temperature have a temperature-dependent density despite variations in the heat-up cycle. When the sintering temperature of ThO 2 is raised, the increase in densification rate is much greater than the corresponding increase in the diffusion coefficient of thorium, the slower diffusing species, indicating that bulk diffusion is not the dominant material transport mechanism. The densification behavior is compatible with transport of material by dislocation movement. Prolonged holding at an intermediate temperature before heating to the final sintering temperature results in a curtailment of the densification, suggesting the operation of two or more transport mechanisms which are not contributing to sintering in the same manner.
Effects of fabric target shape and size on the V50 ballistic impact response of soft body armor

Abstract The effects of target shape and size on the V50 ballistic impact response of non-backed woven aramid fabrics is studied by considering 4-sided, circular, and diamond clamped fabrics with cross-sectional areas varying between 5 cm2 and 525 cm2. The fabric targets show an initial very sharp rise in V50 velocity which then plateaus out with increasing fabric areas. At impact velocities around the V50 velocity for each clamped fabric shape, there is a critical fabric size beyond which the projectile residual kinetic energy shows a sharp jump in magnitude, which continues to grow with increasing fabric sizes. Regardless of fabric size, all impacts show sensitivity to the precise projectile impact location with yarn-based impacts generally resulting in greater energy dissipations than gap-based impacts. Over the range of target sizes considered, the V50 velocities of the circular and diamond clamped fabrics were very similar to each other and higher than the 4-sided clamped fabric targets.
CT of pyogenic spine infection

A retrospective review of 19 patients with a diagnosis of pyogenic spine infection evaluated with spine CT was performed. In addition to displaying bone involvement, CT routinely depicted paraspinous and epidural involvement often not apparent on conventional radiographs or nuclear medicine studies. CT proved particularly useful in (1) workup of patients with clinical evidence of infection associated with back pain and neurologic symptoms, (2) evaluation of patients with fever and recurrent back pain following recent spine surgery, (3) guiding diagnostic aspiration of suspected spinal regions for culture and sensitivity, (4) pre-operative planning of debridement surgery.
Primary soft tissue sarcomas of the breast: local-regional control with post-operative radiotherapy

Abstract Purpose : A retrospective analysis was undertaken to determine the efficacy of postoperative radiotherapy in patients with primary sarcoma of the breast. Methods and Materials : Ten patients with high-grade nonmetastatic primary sarcoma of the breast were treated at the National Cancer Institute, NIH, between 1979 and 1989 with mastectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy. Chemotherapy was given to three patients as part of a randomized trial. Results : With a median potential followup of 99 months postoperatively, seven patients remain alive and without evidence of disease 142, 119, 82, 48, 45, 28, and 19 months postoperatively. Three patients died of metastatic disease 7, 25, and 29 months, postoperatively. There were no local or regional failures. Actuarial 5-year disease free and overall survival were 68% and 66%, respectively. Conclusion : Sarcomas of the breast have a prognosis similar to that of extremity sarcomas. When adjuvant radiotherapy is used, excellent local control may be achieved.
Kanamori Receives the Bucher Medal

Hiroo Kanamori was awarded the Walter H. Bucher Medal at the AGU Fall Meeting Honors Ceremony on December 17, 1996, in San Francisco, California. The Bucher Medal recognizes original contributions to the basic knowledge of the Earth's crust. The award citation and Kanamori's response are given here.
International symposium on pediatric neurotransmitter diseases.

The second International Symposium on Pediatric Neurotransmitter Diseases (PNDs), entitled BMedical Management of Pediatric Neurotransmitter Diseases: A Multidisciplinary Approach^, was convened on July 18–19, 2008, in Washington, DC, USA. The meeting was sponsored conjointly by the National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke (NINDS), the Office of Rare Diseases (ORD), the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the PND Association. This second symposium followed almost six years to the day from the first International Symposium (May 18–19, 2002), the proceedings of which were presented in a supplement to Annals of Neurology (Volume 54 Issue S6, pages S1–S109 (2003)). There are currently five rare, inherited disorders that affect central neurotransmission and are housed under the umbrella of the PND Association. These are: succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) deficiency (or g-hydroxybutyric aciduria), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) deficiency, aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase I deficiency (GTP cyclohydrolase, or GTPCH deficiency), and sepiapterin reductase (SR) deficiency. Generally speaking, early presentation with an array of movement dysfunction is the rule in these disorders, and this umbrella is likely to expand as more disorders are recognized, and more parents join the ranks of the PND Association. The conference brought together scientists and clinicians to discuss current and potential treatments for PNDs, and to develop practical guidelines for multidisciplinary treatment of these disorders. The conference was attended by more than sixty medical professionals representing six countries, ten medical professionals from the National Institutes of Health, and more than thirty families whose child (or children) are affected with one of the PNDs. As it was with the first Symposium, the opening talks presented an overview of the phenotypes and metabolic features of the PNDs. The future prospects for gene therapy in this group of disorders was also discussed. As always, the exceptionally insightful comments of Prof. Segawa, who in 1971 first described autosomal-dominant GTP cyclohydrolase deficiency, provided thoughtful discussion for all in attendance. A goal of the second Symposium was to present a Bmultifaceted^ approach to treatment. The corresponding sessions highlighted traditional physiatry, sensory integration intervention and the potential for deep brain stimulation for amelioration of symptoms. These approaches generated lively discussion, and it is probable that these approaches will be discussed in future Symposia. The second Symposium afforded the opportunity for research updates by investigators funded through the PND Association, as well as other investigators who had important new data to present. An impressive update on neuroimaging in AADC deficiency was developed into one of the written contributions to the Symposium proceedings. One of the more rewarding J Inherit Metab Dis (2009) 32:319–320 DOI 10.1007/s10545-009-9961-1
Mechanism and regulation of mycobactin fatty acyl-AMP ligase FadD33.

Mycobacterial siderophores are critical components for bacterial virulence in the host. Pathogenic mycobacteria synthesize iron chelating siderophores named mycobactin and carboxymycobactin to extract intracellular macrophage iron. The two siderophores differ in structure only by a lipophilic aliphatic chain attached on the ϵ-amino group of the lysine mycobactin core, which is transferred by MbtK. Prior to acyl chain transfer, the lipophilic chain requires activation by a specific fatty acyl-AMP ligase FadD33 (also known as MbtM) and is then loaded onto phosphopantetheinylated acyl carrier protein (holo-MbtL) to form covalently acylated MbtL. We demonstrate that FadD33 prefers long chain saturated lipids and initial velocity studies showed that FadD33 proceeds via a Bi Uni Uni Bi ping-pong mechanism. Inhibition experiments suggest that, during the first half-reaction (adenylation), fatty acid binds first to the free enzyme, followed by ATP and the release of pyrophosphate to form the adenylate intermediate. During the second half-reaction (ligation), holo-MbtL binds to the enzyme followed by the release of products AMP and acylated MbtL. In addition, we characterized a post-translational regulation mechanism of FadD33 by the mycobacterial protein lysine acetyltransferase in a cAMP-dependent manner. FadD33 acetylation leads to enzyme inhibition, which can be reversed by the NAD+-dependent deacetylase, MSMEG_5175 (DAc1). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that bacterial siderophore synthesis has been shown to be regulated via post-translational protein acetylation. Background: Fatty acyl-AMP ligase FadD33 is required for mycobactin biosynthesis. Results: FadD33 catalyzes a two-step kinetic mechanism, and FadD33 activity is regulated by post-translational acetylation. Conclusion: Mycobactin FadD33 activity is reversibly regulated by Pat (acetylation) and DAc1 (deacetylation). Significant: Post-translational regulation via acetylation of enzymes can modulate siderophore biosynthesis.
The RNA/protein symmetry hypothesis: experimental support for reverse translation of primitive proteins.

Although the "RNA-world" theory, or the RNA-first theory is renowned for a promising theory of biogenesis, it is also possible that both RNAs and proteins have coevolved forming a stable metabolic complex from the very beginning. I investigated this possibility assuming that the genetic information flowed symmetrically in the era of the origin of life, i.e. the primitive translation machinery worked in both directions (from RNA to protein and from protein to RNA). According to this RNA/protein symmetry theory, the genetic information would have come from existing cellular proteins via reverse translation. This process would have been completed in a short period of time without searching an enormous RNA sequence space. Furthermore, reverse translation would have ensured biological continuity; proteins that were essential for cellular metabolism would have been utilized in the same way as before the protein sequence information would have been transferred into the RNA sequences. I also propose a possible mechanism for the process of reverse translation. The reverse translation would proceed in the 3' to 5' direction using a set of at least 20 reverse transfer RNAs (rtRNAs) that can recognize their specific amino acid residue and carry their corresponding codon. A source of genetic information would be a primary sequence of a protein molecule. Several basic steps of reverse translation were demonstrated using rtRNA(Arg).
Constructing Density Forecasts from Quantile Regressions

The departure from the traditional concern with the central tendency is in line with the increasing recognition that an assessment of the degree of uncertainty surrounding a point forecast is indispensable (Clements 2004). We propose an econometric model to estimate the conditional density without relying on assumptions about the parametric form of the conditional distribution of the target variable. The methodology is applied to the U.S. unemployment rate and the survey of professional forecasts. Specification tests based on Koenker and Xiao (2002) and Gaglianone et al. (2011) indicate that our approach correctly approximates the true conditional density.
Polymerized ionic liquid diblock copolymers with long alkyl side-chain length

Abstract A polymerized ionic liquid (PIL) diblock copolymer with a long alkyl side-chain, poly(MMA- b -MUBIm-Br), was synthesized at various compositions from an ionic liquid monomer, (1-[(2-methacryloyloxy)undecyl]-3-butylimidazolium bromide) (MUBIm-Br), and a non-ionic monomer, methyl methacrylate (MMA). The PIL diblock copolymer was synthesized via post-functionalization from its non-ionic precursor PIL diblock copolymer, poly(MMA- b -BrUMA) (BrUMA = 11-bromoundecyl methacrylate), which was synthesized via the reverse addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization technique. Differential scanning calorimetry reveals two distinct constant glass transition temperatures ( T g s) with a low PIL segment T g . These PIL block copolymers result in easily processable, flexible, transparent films with high mechanical strength. A high bromide ion conductivity of 64.85 mS cm −1 at 80 °C and 90% RH was measured for the PIL diblock copolymer with an ion exchange capacity (IEC) of 1.44 meq/g (23.3 mol% MUBIm-Br). Interestingly, this result was three times higher than its analogous PIL homopolymer (2.75 meq/g; 100 mol% MUBIm-Br) and an order of magnitude higher than a PIL block copolymer from a previous study with similar chemistry, similar IEC, higher water content, but shorter alkyl side-chain length. Ion conductivity did not scale as expected with water content, which is unusual for water-assisted ion transport (e.g., protons, hydroxide, chloride) in ion-containing polymers, and therefore suggests other mechanisms that impact ion transport in PIL block copolymers.
Estimating particle redistribution from launch loads

The development of a simple particle redistribution model for estimating the effect on surface obscuration after particle shed from a neighboring surface during random vibration is discussed. The model uses both spherical and elliptical particles and existing failure data of glass spheres on a metal surface to estimate the critical body force to cause the particles to release from the surface. The resulting obscuration from shedding particles on the shedding surface can then be added to the receiving surface. The model assumes that the force due to gravity exceeds the buoyancy force from venting. Because the redistribution analysis shows that particles 80 µm and larger will shed, and particles 60 µm and larger are verifiable using Visually Clean-II (VC-II) conditions, highly reflective surfaces cleaned to a VC-II level will pose little threat to neighboring surfaces from redistribution at 6-g quasi-static loading.