cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Growth and average growth rates of tanner crab zoeae collected from the plankton

Growth of the two zoeal stages of Tanner crabs, Chionoecetes bairdi and C. opilio, was estimated by changes in total dry weight of individuals sampled from plankton of the southeastern Bering Sea during the springs of 1977, 1978, 1980 and 1981. Since the age of larvae within a stage cannot be determined, approximate beginning and end weights of each stage were used. Epidermal retraction, conspicuous under low magnification of a dissecting microscope, was used to identify larvae presumed to be in advanced stages of growth (biomass) for their respective larval stage. This assumption was corroborated by holding retracted larvae that subsequently molted on board ship, by comparison of dry weight measurements from extensive field sampling, and by the low proportion of larvae showing such conspicuous retraction. An exponential growth model was used to calculate the average daily growth rate based on estimates of stage duration in the field. The adequacy of this model for describing the average rate, rather than the pattern, of growth is discussed. Carbon-specific rates of respiration from discrete measurements and of growth averaged for each zoeal stage indicate average net growth efficiencies comparable to laboratory results for other species. The method used to estimate growth should be applicable to other larval decapods and offers the advantage of estimating this parameter from data gathered from natural populations.
Melatonin: Its Inhibition of Pineal Antigonadotrophic Activity in Male Hamsters

Exposure of male hamsters to short daily photoperiods (1 hour of light and 23 hours of darkness daily for 9 weeks led to total involution of the testes and accessory sex organs (seminal vesicles and coagulating glands). Pituitary levels of immunoreactive prolaction also decreased by about 60 percent after dark exposure. The inhibitory effects of darkness on the reproductive organs were prevented either by pinealectomy or by the subcutaneous implantation of a melatonin-beeswax pellet into the animals each week. Both pinealectomy and melatonin treatment also returned pituitary levels of prolactin toward normal. The results suggest that melatonin is not the pineal antigonadotrophic factor in the male golden hamster.
Percutaneous Myocardial Gene Transfer of phVEGF-2

Gene transfer of phVEGF-2, an endothelial cell mitogen previously shown to promote angiogenesis in preclinical animal studies, is intended to promote collateral vessel development to the ischemic lateral LV wall. The strategy of gene delivery used in this case is designed to exploit the fact that muscle, particularly myocardium, yields relatively higher levels of gene expression than other tissue types; electromechanical mapping was used in this case to guide injection to sites of myocardial ischemia, because ischemic muscle yields even higher levels of gene expression. …
Serological Relationship of Swine Vesicular Disease Virus and Coxsackie B5 Virus

THE recent outbreak of swine vesicular disease (SVD) in England1 has focused attention on the characteristics of the causative virus. The virus belongs to the enterovirus subgroup of the picornaviruses2 and the strains isolated from the first outbreak in Italy in 19662 and later in Hong Kong in 19713 and England in 19721 are serologically related. We describe here the relationship of this porcine enterovirus to a human enterovirus of man, and speculate that the virus might have been transferred from man to swine.
Early effects of estrogen on acid-soluble nucleotides of the rat uterus.

Abstract Estrogen effects on nucleotides ATP, ADP, UTP, UDPG, and UDPAG are the principal labeled nucleotides in the acid-soluble fractions of rat uteri after in vivo administration of orthophosphate-P 32 . Following a single intravenous injection of 17β-estradiol into ovariectomized rats, a dramatic change occurred in the incorporation of P 32 into UTP. Increases of up to 250% at 4 hr. and significant changes at 1 and 2 hr. were observed. Estrogen consistently had less effect on ATP. Equilibration time and specific activity were only slightly affected by estrogen administration; UTP concentration increased an average of 100%. It appears that changes in labeling of UTP were due principally to changes in pool size and not to rate of phosphorylation.
The mathematics education of future primary and secondary teachers : methods and findings from the Teacher Education and Development Study in Mathematics

In 2005, the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA), Michigan State University, and the Australian Council for Educational Research took an important step in advancing the field of education by partnering to develop and implement the first international and comparative study of mathematics teacher education. The study was made possible by the substantial funding received from the National Science Foundation, the IEA, and the collaboration of 17 participating countries. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the methodology used in this major cross-national study of teacher education—the IEA Teacher Education and Development Study in Mathematics, known as TEDS-M—and to share its main findings related to the mathematical preparation of future teachers.
Social discrimination, stress, and risk of unintended pregnancy among young women.

Abstract Purpose Prior research linking young women's mental health to family planning outcomes has often failed to consider their social circumstances and the intersecting biosocial mechanisms that shape stress and depression as well as reproductive outcomes during adolescence and young adulthood. We extend our previous work to investigate relationships between social discrimination, stress and depression symptoms, and unintended pregnancy among adolescent and young adult women. Methods Data were drawn from 794 women aged 18–20 years in a longitudinal cohort study. Baseline and weekly surveys assessed psychosocial information including discrimination (Everyday Discrimination Scale), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression Scale), and reproductive outcomes. Multilevel, mixed-effects logistic regression and discrete-time hazard models estimated associations between discrimination, mental health, and pregnancy. Baron and Kenny's method was used to test mediation effects of stress and depression on discrimination and pregnancy. Results The mean discrimination score was 19/45 points; 20% reported moderate/high discrimination. Discrimination scores were higher among women with stress and depression symptoms versus those without symptoms (21 vs. 18 points for both, p p Conclusions Discrimination was associated with an increased risk of mental health symptoms and unintended pregnancy among these young women. The interactive social and biological influences on reproductive outcomes during adolescence and young adulthood warrant further study.
Early elevations of glycosidase, acid phosphatase, and acid proteolytic enzyme activity in denervated skeletal muscle.

Abstract Evidence is presented that denervation of rat extensor digitorum longus is rapidly followed by selective increases in the activity of glycosidase, acid phosphatase, and acid proteolytic enzymes. A novel double-denervation paradigm was used to demonstrate that the elevation in at least two enzyme activities, β- d -mannosidase and α- l -fucosidase is influenced by something in, or some process mediated by, the nerve. The nature of this elevation in enzyme activity points to a sensitive, neurally influenced control mechanism established in the normal relationship between nerve and muscle, but which is upset by denervation. The possible relationships of increased acid hydrolytic enzyme activity to general muscle atrophy is discussed, and a hypothesis is presented that the early metabolic changes triggered by denervation result in the altered membrane properties of denervated muscle.
Meeting the Needs of the 21st Century Student

This paper will examine the learning needs of millennial students, a generation different from any previous generation, so librarians should adjust their teaching methods to accommodate their needs. Should we, as librarians, consider changing our reference services—the way we present instruction and the materials that we order for the library? Will traditional library methods meet the needs of our current students or will students stop coming to the library in favor of finding their information on Google?
CT angiography for evaluation of coronary artery disease in inner-city outpatients: an initial prospective comparison with stress myocardial perfusion imaging

To evaluate the utility of CT coronary angiography (CTA) for demonstrating coronary artery disease in inner-city outpatients, we prospectively compared CTA with stress SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in an ethnically diverse, gender balanced population. All patients gave written informed consent for this IRB approved, HIPAA compliant study. Sixty-one patients completed both CTA and SPECT. About 67% were ethnic minorities, 51% were women. A stenosis of ≥70% on CTA was considered positive. Results were compared with perfusion defects on SPECT and correlated with clinical endpoints (hospital admissions, cardiovascular events, coronary interventions and deaths). CTA and SPECT data were compared with results of coronary angiography, when performed. There was moderate global agreement of 79% (48/61) between CTA and SPECT, κ = 0.483 (SE ± 0.13, P = 0.0001). With SPECT as the reference standard, CTA had sensitivity of 73% (11/15), specificity of 80% (37/46), negative predictive value of 90% (37/41) and positive predictive value of 55% (11/20). Positive SPECT was associated with positive CTA, (P < 0.0001, OR = 22). Eleven (18%) underwent subsequent cardiac catheterization, which was positive in 91% (10/11). CTA and SPECT had positive predictive values of 90 and 83% compared with catheterization. This study lends preliminary evidence to support to the utility of CTA as an alternative modality for the evaluation of CAD in an ethnically diverse, gender balanced inner-city outpatient population. Similar to more homogenous groups, CTA had a high negative predictive value and demonstrated disease occult to SPECT. Further study is necessary to evaluate the impact of CTA on patient outcomes.
Radionuclides in the assessment of myocardial infarction.

Radionuclides in Cardiology have been used mainly for detection of myocardial infarction’ and assessment of left ventricular function.2 The need for improved detection of myocardial infarction is related to the lack of sensitivity and specificity of the ECG or plasma enzymes in certain clinical conditions.“, a Diagnosis of infarction after cardiac surgery is particularly troublesome since even creatine phosphokinase isoenzymes, specific for myocardial damage, are consistently elevated as a result of the iatrogenic injury., The recent interest in protection of ischemic myocardium6 requires measurement of infarct size and several studies suggest that quantification of infarct images may be possible,‘, 8 which has intensified the search for more appropriate radionuclidesg Four categories of radionuclides have been utilized to identify zones of h (2) metabolic substrates (labeled free fatty acids, 13NH,15; (3) inert gases (s5Kr, *%e)l6,1’; and (4) labeled microspheres or macroaggregates.18, I9 However, radionuclides which accumulate in areas of infarction (“hot
Does the oxidative/glycolytic ratio determine proliferation or death in immune recognition?

: Here we discuss the possibility that the way cells utilize fuel(s) for energy confers the properties that can be recognized by the immune system and, reciprocally, that recognition by the immune system can alter the balance of the cell's energy metabolism. We propose that immune recognition, of somatic cells via MHC can alter the their energy metabolism and induce a metabolic shift. We demonstrate the reciprocal relationship that inducing a shift in metabolism toward glycolysis by supplying glucose and insulin results in the upregulation of immunologically recognizable molecules such as cell surface Fas. Thus, immune recognition can induce metabolic deviation. Metabolic deviation can result in altered immune recognition and ultimately in cell proliferation, cell differentiation, or cell death.
Production and employment of Ph.D.'s in computer science—1976

Statistics are presented on the production and employment of Ph.D.'s in computer science for the calendar year 1975-76. Data include profiles of graduate students and of faculty at 60 Ph.D.-producing departments as well as a breakdown of degrees granted by specialty areas. Significant trends are noted and comparisons with comparable data gathered for the 1974-75 calendar year are made.
Selenate- and selenomethionine-induced leukopenia in ICR female mice.

The investigations reported here were conducted to gain a better understanding of the comparative toxicity of selenium. Sodium selenate and selenomethionine were administered to young adult ICR female mice. Peripheral leukocyte counts and ratios of agranulocyte (Ag) to granulocyte (G) leukocytes were determined from blood that was collected at regularly scheduled intervals. Data indicated that both forms of selenium induced a transient yet marked decrease in the number of circulating leukocytes (leukopenia) following serial injections ( 2 mg Se/ kg/injection) . The leukopenia was more extensive and of a greater duration for selenomethionine-treated mice. For selenate-injected anim als the Ag/ G ratio increased sharply while the ratio shift for selenomethionine-injected mice was significantly less. Data are interpreted in regard to the different possible modes of action of selenate and selenomethionine on peripheral leukocytes causing leukopenia and the variable Ag/G ratio values.
Ranolazine and the myocardial demand-supply balance.

The emergence of ranolazine as an effective antianginal agent ([1,2][1]) has prompted recurring interest in identifying mechanisms by which this agent can favorably affect the imbalance between myocardial oxygen demand and supply underlying anginal episodes. Early studies of ranolazine centered on
Novel pharmacology: asimadoline, a κ-opioid agonist, and visceral sensation

Asimadoline is a potent kappa-opioid receptor agonist with a diaryl acetamide structure. It has high affinity for the kappa receptor, with IC(50) of 5.6 nmol L(-1) (guinea pig) and 1.2 nmol L(-1) (human recombinant), and high selectively with kappa : micro : delta binding ratios of 1 : 501 : 498 in human recombinant receptors. It acts as a complete agonist in in vitro assay. Asimadoline reduced sensation in response to colonic distension at subnoxious pressures in healthy volunteers and in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients without alteration of colonic compliance. Asimadoline reduced satiation and enhanced the postprandial gastric volume (in female volunteers). However, there were no significant effects on gastrointestinal transit, colonic compliance, fasting or postprandial colonic tone. In a clinical trial in 40 patients with functional dyspepsia (Rome II), asimadoline did not significantly alter satiation or symptoms over 8 weeks. However, asimadoline, 0.5 mg, significantly decreased satiation in patients with higher postprandial fullness scores, and daily postprandial fullness severity (over 8 weeks); the asimadoline 1.0 mg group was borderline significant. In a clinical trial in patients with IBS, average pain 2 h post-on-demand treatment with asimadoline was not significantly reduced. Post hoc analyses suggest that asimadoline was effective in mixed IBS. In a 12-week study in 596 patients, chronic treatment with 0.5 mg and 1.0 mg asimadoline was associated with adequate relief of pain and discomfort, improvement in pain score and number of pain-free days in patients with IBS-D. The 1.0 mg dose was also efficacious in IBS-alternating. There were also weeks with significant reduction in bowel frequency and urgency. Asimadoline has been well tolerated in human trials to date.
Cetacean hemoglobins: Electrophoretic findings in nine species☆

Abstract 1. 1. Hemoglobin samples from nine cetacean species (including dolphins, porpoises and whales) were studied by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and starch gel; cellulose acetate patterns are shown. 2. 2. Human hemoglobin SA was used as a standard control to describe the relative migration of the cetacean hemoglobins. All hemoglobin samples were quantitated with a densitometer. 3. 3. Each cetacean species demonstrated an essentially constant electrophoretic pattern. Three species have a single hemoglobin band and six have two hemoglobin bands. The possible relationship of these differences to diving habits, maturation, etc. needs further evaluation.
A rapid method for the quantitative measurement of gene dosage mini f plasmid concentration as a function of cell growth rate

Abstract Determination of plasmid concentration (plasmids/unit volume) is a tedious, time-consuming undertaking when classical procedures are used. Measurement of relative plasmid concentration (plasmids/chromosome equivalent) is quicker but quite inaccurate for very small, low copy number plasmids such as mini-F. Also, one cannot compare validly the plasmid/chromosome equivalents at different growth rates because the amount of chromosome per unit cell volume varies. Therefore, we have devised a method that simultaneously avoids both of these difficulties. We have done this by adapting the Grunstein-Hogness technique [Grunstein, M. and Hogness, D. (1975) Colony hybridization: a method for the isolation of cloned DNAs that contain a specific gene. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 72 3961–3965] of in situ colony lysis with known cell volumes applied to a filter membrane with the aid of a filtration manifold. The amount of specific gene sequence was then determined by hybridization with a radioactive probe. We have succesfully used the technique to measure the concentration of mini-F and native F plasmids that vary in size from 5.0 to 95.0 kb. This method offers several advantages over currently employed techniques. These include: sensitivity, speed, and cost and equipment that is required.
On Traffic Grooming Choices for IP over WDM networks

Traffic grooming continues to be a rich area of research in the context of WDM optical networks. We provide an overview of the optical and electronic grooming techniques available with focus on IP as the client layer. We discuss the various architectural alternatives available: peer, overlay and augmented models. We first provide a survey on the research work in the area of traffic grooming in optical circuit switched networks. We then identify problems with electronic grooming in terms of high speed router design and bring out the merits of optical grooming. Next, we describe the shared wavelength optical network technology called light-trails and compare its performance with electronic grooming networks for both the peer and overlay models. Based on our simulations on random graphs of various diameters, we identify the threshold router speeds at which light-trails can compete with the electronic grooming solution for a given network scenario. We conclude that since the present router capacities are below the threshold speed or such routers are likely to remain expensive for some time, light-trails is an appealing candidate solution.
Epigenetics gets sweeter: O-GlcNAc joins the "histone code".

O-GlcNAcylation has now been added to the growing list of histone modifications making up the multifaceted "histone-code" (Sakabe et al., 2010). The sites of O-GlcNAc-histone modification hint at a role in chromatin remodeling, thus adding to mounting evidence that O-GlcNAc cycling sits atop a robust regulatory network maintaining higher-order chromatin structure and epigenetic memory.
Second-harmonic generation and photon bunching in multimode laser beams.

Second-harmonic generation in multimode laser beams is studied experimentally. A multimode laser beam derived from a laser oscillating simultaneously in many longitudinal modes that have the same transverse profile (${\mathrm{TEM}}_{00}$) is focused into a nonlinear crystal. Noncritical phase matching is utilized to generate the second harmonic. The number of longitudinal modes is systematically varied from 1 to 7 and the dependence of the efficiency of second-harmonic generation on the number of modes in the fundamental beam is studied. Experimental results clearly demonstrate the increasing degree of photon bunching in the fundamental beam as the number of modes increases. Experimental results are discussed and compared with the predictions of theoretical models.
A pelvic implant orthosis in rodents, for spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and for brain machine interface research: construction, surgical implantation and validation.

Abstract Background Rodents are important model systems used to explore spinal cord injury (SCI) and rehabilitation, and brain machine interfaces (BMI). We present a new method to provide mechanical interaction for BMI and rehabilitation in rat models of SCI. New method We present the design and implantation procedures for a pelvic orthosis that allows direct force application to the skeleton in brain machine interface and robot rehabilitation applications in rodents. We detail the materials, construction, machining, surgery and validation of the device. Results We describe the statistical validation of the implant procedures by comparing stepping parameters of 8 rats prior to and after implantation and surgical recovery. An ANOVA showed no effects of the implantation on stepping. Paired tests in the individual rats also showed no effect in 7/8 rats and minor effects in the last rat, within the group's variance. Comparison with existing methods Our method allows interaction with rats at the pelvis without any perturbation of normal stepping in the intact rat. The method bypasses slings, and cuffs, avoiding cuff or slings squeezing the abdomen, or other altered sensory feedback. Our implant osseointegrates, and thus allows an efficient high bandwidth mechanical coupling to a robot. The implants support quadrupedal training and are readily integrated into either treadmill or overground contexts. Conclusions Our novel device and procedures support a range of novel experimental designs and motor tests for rehabilitative and augmentation devices in intact and SCI model rats, with the advantage of allowing direct force application at the pelvic bones.
Localization of Protein-Acetaldehyde Adducts on Cell Surface of Hepatocytes by Flow Cytometry

Acetaldehyde, a highly reactive intermediate of ethanol metabolism, has been shown to form adducts with liver proteins (e.g., a cytosolic 37 kDa protein and the microsomal cytP450IIE1) in rats fed alcohol chronically. In this study, flow cytometry was utilized to test for the presence of protein-acetaldehyde adducts (-AAs) on the surface of hepatocytes and immunotransblot was used to detect for the 37 kDa protein-AA in cytosol as was previously described. For flow cytometric analysis, rabbit anti-hemocyanin-AA IgG and fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated goat anti-rabbit serum IgG were used as the primary and secondary antibodies to label surface protein-AAs on hepatocytes at 0° to 4°C. After labeling and washing, hepatocytes were fixed with paraformaldehyde-cacodylate and analyzed with a flow cytometer. In an experiment wherein hepatocytes isolated from rats pair-fed liquid diets with and without ethanol were treated by adding both the primary and secondary IgGs, some hepatocytes from both alcohol-fed and control rats exhibited positive fluorescence but no significant difference in fluorescence intensity was noted. In another experiment, hepatocytes were isolated from rats pair-fed cyanamide (a selective aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor) with and without ethanol. The number of hepatocytes showing positive fluorescence in the presence of both primary and secondary IgGs was significantly higher in rats fed cyanamide plus ethanol than in rats fed cyanamide only. Of note, the 37 kDa protein-AA could be detected by immunotransblot in liver cytosol of alcohol-fed rats but not in the controls of both experiments with and without cyanamide supplementation. When hepatocytes from rats fed cyanamide plus ethanol were incubated with 0.5% trypsin for 5 min at 37°C after being labeled with fluorochrome, the population of cells with positive fluorescence disappeared. Our data thus indicate that hepatocytes contain surface protein-AAs when in vivo acetaldehyde concentration is elevated by feeding alcohol and cyanamide simultaneously but not by feeding alcohol alone. The implication is that at least in the rat, only high concentrations of acetaldehyde in vivo can lead to presentation of protein-AAs to liver cell surface to serve as neoantigens.
Effects of clamp rise-time on rat brain IIA sodium channels in Xenopus oocytes.

The kinetic properties of wild-type rat brain IIa sodium channels in excised macropatches were studied using step depolarizations and ramp depolarizations to imitate the slow settling-time of voltage in two-electrode voltage clamp. Ramp depolarizations longer than 1 ms produce an increasing suppression of peak sodium current (INa). Two rates of inactivation can be seen in macroscopic sodium current records from excised patches following both step and ramp depolarizations. During slow ramp depolarizations, reduction in peak INa is associated with selective loss of the fastest rate of test-pulse inactivation. This change can be interpreted as resulting from inactivation of a separate sub-population of `fast mode' channels. The slow rate of test-pulse inactivation is relatively unaffected by changing ramp durations. These results are sufficient to explain the typically slow inactivation kinetics seen in two-electrode voltage clamp recordings of sodium channels in Xenopus oocytes. Thus, the kinetics of sodium channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes are not readily characterizable by two-electrode clamp because of the large membrane capacitance and resulting slow clamp settling time which artifactually selects for slow mode channels.
Inverse Problem in Classical Statistical Mechanics

Examples of inverse solutions for the effective additive pair potential from guessed equilibrium pair distribution are given for the Percus-Yevick, hypernetted-chain, and Stillinger-Buff (with an inexact mean-density closure relation) equations. The found potentials depend on density and temperature and the potential for a given guessed distribution predicted by the Percus-Yevick theory is always smaller than that from the hypernetted chain equation. The exact inverse problem of determining the potential from the nonuniform pair distribution is formulated via the Stillinger-Buff equation and the difficulties in solving this problem are indicated. In a related inverse problem we characterize the possible equations of state consistent with the assumption that the potential of mean force of the fluid is directly proportional to the, possibly density dependent, pair potential.
Neonatal isolation enhances maintenance but not reinstatement of cocaine self-administration in adult male rats

Rationale Previously, we demonstrated that neonatal isolation increases acquisition of cocaine self-administration in adult male rats.
Effects of N-doping on the microstructure, mechanical and tribological behavior of Cr-DLC films

Abstract We report on the effects of nitrogen doping on Cr-containing diamond-like carbon (Cr-DLC) films. DLC, Cr-DLC and N-doped Cr-DLC films were deposited on (100) Si substrates using a hybrid plasma-assisted CVD/PVD process. Film microstructure, composition and chemical state of elements were studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Mechanical and tribological properties were investigated using microhardness testing and pin-on-disc experiments. Analysis by TEM and XPS shows that the Cr-DLC films contain a dispersion of amorphous, Cr-rich nanoparticles. In the N-doped films, N combines with C and partly transforms the Cr-rich nanoparticles into chromium carbon nitrides, CrC(N), dispersed in the amorphous DLC matrix. Also, a significant portion of N is incorporated into the C network. The N-doped Cr-DLC films were found to possess higher hardness, lower intrinsic stresses and somewhat higher coefficient of friction and wear rate than Cr-DLC and DLC films. Such influence of the N-doping on the properties is attributed to the formation of CrC(N) nanoparticles and C–N bonds in the DLC matrix.
Incidence of low back injuries among nursing personnel as a function of patient lifting frequency

Occupational back injuries among nursing personnel are common. Although numerous factors affect risk, a widely recognized (but poorly documented) factor is exposure to patient lifting. Due to a lack of adequate documentation in the research literature, this investigation was undertaken to examine the relationship between the frequency of patient lifting and the frequency of back injuries. A major medical center was used to collect retrospective data on three work groups: (a) licensed practical nurses, (b) nurses' aides, and (c) attendants (orderlies). From these employees, two exposure groups were identified: one group exposed to frequent patient lifting and a control group of nursing personnel who infrequently lift patients. The reported back pain incidents of the two groups were then statistically compared. The statistical procedures used were logistic regression and survival analysis. Both comparisons showed significant differences between exposure groups. From this analysis, it appears that patient lifting frequency is indeed a significant causative factor in the production of low back injuries in nursing personnel.
Identification of (12-Ricinoleoylricinoleoyl)diricinoleoylglycerol, an Acylglycerol Containing Four Acyl Chains, in Castor (Ricinus communis L.) Oil by LC-ESI-MS

An acylglycerol (AG) containing four acyl chains, (12-ricinoleoylricinoleoyl)diricinoleoylglycerol (RRRR), was positively identified for the first time in a natural source in castor oil using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). HPLC-purified RRRR from castor oil was subjected to ion trap and high-resolution ESI-MS/MS. The precursor and fragment ions of [RRRR + Na]+ showed the expected masses, and the sodiated fragment ions of both diacylglycerols and fatty acids were detected. Because fragment ions of fatty acids from [AG + NH4]+ adducts cannot be detected by ESI-MS/MS, [AG + Na]+ adducts are more informative. Radiolabeled triricinolein (RRR) was incorporated into RRRR in castor microsomes, indicating that RRRR is biosynthesized in castor bean. This newly identified and biosynthesized RRRR represents a new AG subclass of tetra-acylglycerols (or acylacyldiacylglycerol). Keywords: Castor oil; ricinoleate; acylglycerol; tetra-acylglycerol; acylacyldiacylglycerol; biosynthesis; HPLC;...
INJURIES TO CHILDREN IN AUTOMOBILES IN RELATION TO SEATING LOCATION AND RESTRAINT USE

Abstract Findings in this study are based on 26,971 passengers less than 15 years of age in reported crashes in 1967 and later model year automobiles in North Carolina during calendar years 1973 and 1974. (1) Children least likely to be injured in crashes are restrained and in the back seat; those most likely to be injured are unrestrained and are in the front seat. Unrestrained children in the front right seat have the highest injury rate. (2) More than 90% of the children in the surveyed crashes were found unprotected by restraints—paralleling earlier findings for those in cars in general. (3) Back seat location reduced the injury rate by 28% among unrestrained children and 18% among restrained children. Use of restraints reduced the injury rate by 39% in the front seat and 31% in back. (4) Among unrestrained children, back seat location is advantageous for both males and females, for both younger and older children, and in automobiles of various sizes. The advantage of back seat location is most pronounced in frontal impacts. Laws in several European countries regarding belt use and seating location, by in effect forbidding restraint use by some children, may increase the likelihood that those children will be injured in crashes. It is recommended that in automobiles presently on the road without automatic restraints such as air cushions, children be restrained, preferably in the back seat, and that they never travel unrestrained in the front seat.
Optimized Ionic Wind-Based Cooling Microfabricated Devices for Improving a Measured Coefficient of Performance

This work is a continuation of previous investigations aimed at developing an innovative microfabricated air-cooling technology that employs an electrohydrodynamic corona discharge (i.e. ionic wind pump) [1], [2]. This technology enables the miniaturization of cooling systems for next generation electronics. Our single ionic wind pump element consists of two parallel collecting electrodes between which a single emitting tip is positioned. Two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) simulations using COMSOL Multiphysics™ are additionally employed to predict the temperature distribution, the flow field, and the heat removal capacity of the device in operation. One such model utilizes a small gap between collector and emitter electrodes and demonstrates an improvement in the COP (coefficient of performance) of a single device. Comparisons are made with experimental temperature data on an actual device. The purpose of this work is therefore to optimize the performance of a single microfabricated ionic wind pump to enable the development of an array of these elements for use in larger-scale heat transfer applications.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Qualitative Assessment of Arts Education.

Exploring the complicated issues of assessment in the arts, the authors discuss assessment of arts education and arts programs from a qualitative perspective: experiential, naturalistic, and ethnographic interpretation. With special attention to the practices of teaching, learning, and administration of education in the arts, quality is sought with emphasis on observations and judgment rather than instruments and measurement.
Determinate sentencing and agenda building: A case study of the failure of a reform

Abstract This essay uses an agenda-building model to examine the failure of the movement for determinate sentencing in New York State. Proposals to abolish parole and adopt fixed sentences initially appealed to a wide spectrum of New York policymakers and practitioners, as well as to the New York media. Yet, after more than a decade of flirtation with determinacy, former proponents became opponents when the vague concepts inherent in the determinate model were reduced to a concrete proposal put forward by a sentencing guidelines committee. Data sources include reports of seven blue-ribbon commissions, transcripts from public hearings, editorial coverage by two opposing New York City newspapers, and in-depth interviews with influential policymakers.
Deletion mutations in a long hydrophilic loop in the photosystem II chlorophyll-binding protein CP43 in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

In order to investigate the role and function of the hydrophilic region between transmembrane regions V and CI in the photosystem II core antenna protein CP43, we introduced eight different deletions in psbC of Synechocystis sp; PCC 6803 resulting in a loss of 7–11 codons in evolutionary conserved domains in this region. All deletions resulted in an obligate photoheterotrophic phenotype (requirement of glucose for cell growth) and the absence of any detectable oxygen evolution activity. The various deletion mutations showed a different impact on the amount of CP43 in the thylakoid, ranging from wild-type levels of (a now slightly smaller) CP43 to no detectable CP43 at all. All deletions led to a decrease in the amount of the D1 and D2 proteins in the thylakoids with a larger effect on D2 than on D1. CP47, the other major chlorophyll-binding protein, was present in reduced but significant amounts in the thylakoid. Herbicide binding (diuron) was lost in all but one mutant indicating the PSII components are not assembled into functionally intact complexes. Fluorescence-emission spectra confirmed this notion. This indicates that the large hydrophilic loop of CP43 plays an important role in photosystem II, and even though a shortened CP43 is present in thylakoids of most mutants, functional characteristics resemble that of a mutant with interrupted psbC.
Optical frequency comb generation by direct modulation of CW light

We are investigating optical frequency comb generation by direct modulation of CW light. Our scheme is based on three cascaded modulators; one amplitude modulator and two phase modulators. The modulation scheme is optimized for flatness and power efficiency. A stable optical spectrum has been generated with ~100 comb lines with 0.625 GHz spacing and 3 dB flatness. We also investigate comb generation via phase only modulation.
Manet Localization via Multi-Node TOA-DOA Optimal Fusion

1 - This paper presents a multi-node 2-Dimensional (2D) time-of-arrival (TOA) and direction-of-arrival (DOA) optimal fusion technique. This technique can be applied in ad-hoc networks, especially suitable for the application in the mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs). In this work, positioning error in MANETs would be optimized via TOA-DOA joint estimation and fusion across multiple nodes. In the proposed MANET, we assume two categories of nodes: Those equipped with antenna arrays (base-nodes) and those equipped with omni-directional antennas (target-nodes). All nodes are capable of communicating with other nodes. Base-nodes are capable of positioning (TOA-DOA estimation) other nodes located in their coverage area. A fusion method is proposed to minimize the mean square of the positioning error of a target-node, when more than one base-node estimates its position. The fusion scheme is derived theoretically and compared with simulation results. This paper depicts the capability of the proposed 2D fusion algorithm to considerably reduce the positioning error. The proposed technique has important applications in GPS-denied environments.
Grief and nothingness: Loss and mourning in Robert Lowell's poetry

(1983). Grief and nothingness: Loss and mourning in Robert Lowell's poetry. Psychoanalytic Inquiry: Vol. 3, Themes of death and mourning in art and literature, pp. 451-484.
Uncertainty Segregation and Comparative Evaluation in Groundwater Remediation Designs: A Chance-Constrained Hierarchical Bayesian Model Averaging Approach

AbstractGroundwater remediation designs rely on simulation models that are subjected to various sources of uncertainty. This study introduces a hierarchical Bayesian model averaging (HBMA) method to segregate sources of uncertainty in a hierarchical order and conduct comparative evaluation of BMA models for remediation designs. A BMA tree of models is developed to understand the impact of individual sources of uncertainty in the remediation design. The HBMA method is applied to chance-constrained (CC) formulation for an aquifer remediation design that aims to reduce concentration at a selected control point using scavenger wells. Thirty-six (36) flow and transport models for concentration prediction are developed to analyze the impact of three sources of uncertainty on the remediation design. An essential step in HBMA is to calculate posterior model probabilities as model weights. The best simulation model has the highest model weight. The results show that although using the best simulation model require...
Single click volumetric segmentation of abdominal organs in computed tomography images

Current segmentation techniques require user intervention to fine-tune thresholds and parameters, plot initial contours, refine seed placement, and engage in other optimization strategies. This can cause difficulties for physicians trying to use segmentation tools as they may not have the time or resources to overcome steep learning curves. In order to segment volumetric regions from sequential slices of computed tomography (CT) images with minimal user intervention, we propose an algorithm based on volumetric seeded region growing that employs an adaptive and prioritized expansion. This algorithm requires a user only to identify a voxel in an organ to perform volumetric segmentation. This approach overcomes the need to manually select threshold values for specific organs by analyzing the histogram of voxel similarity to automatically determine a stopping criterion. The homogeneity criterion used for region growth in this approach is calculated from volumetric texture descriptors derived from co-occurrence matrices which consider voxel-pairs in a 3-dimensional neighborhood of a given voxel. Preliminary segmentation results of the kidneys, spleen, and liver were obtained on 3D data extracted from 700 sequential CT images from various studies collected by Northwestern Memorial Hospital. We believe this approach to be a viable segmentation technique that requires significantly less user intervention when compared to other techniques by necessitating only one user intervention, namely the selection of a single seed point.
The aerobic and peroxide-induced coupling of aqueous thiols. II: Reaction mechanisms, model analysis, and a comparison of the model and experimental results

Kinetic results of the preceeding paper are used to formulate the most probable reaction mechanisms for the peroxide-induced and aerobic coupling of aqueous thiols. Parameters in the proposed mechanisms are evaluated for n-propylthiol using the results of independent measurements. A remarkably good agreement is achieved between the model and experimental results. The peroxide reaction, which is not affected by either copper ion or radical scavengers, is shown to be a nucleophilic substitution (SN 2) reaction which proceeds by a two-step mechanism as follows: RS− + H2O2 RSOH + OH− rate-determining RS− + RSOH → RSSR + OH− In the reaction the thiolate anion acts as the nucleophile while hydrogen peroxide and the transient sulfenic acid, RSOH, function as electrophiles. The most plausible mechanism for the copper-catalyzed, aerobic coupling reaction is as follows: Cu+ (RSSR)2+ + RS− (RSSR)Cu+ (RS−) + RSSR (RSSR)Cu+ (RS−) + RS− (RSSR)Cu+ (RS−)2− (RSSR)Cu+ (RS−)2− + O2 Cu+(RSSR)2+ + HO2− rate-determining RS− + H2O2 RSOH + OH− rate-determining RS− + RSOH → RSSR + OH− For the n-propylthiol substrate, the pertinent parameters in the mechanism are 1n (K1) = −11,000 K/T + 33.6, where K1 is dimensionless, 1n (K2) = 4270 K/T −10.5, where K2 is in 1/mol, 1n (k2) = 30.0 − 5260 K/T, and 1n (k2) = 26.8 − 6190 K/T, where k1 and k2 are in 1/(mol min).
Endoscopic vein harvest for infrainguinal arterial bypass.

Background Endoscopic harvest of saphenous vein for infrainguinal arterial bypass decreases incision length and was initially documented to decrease wound complications without adversely affecting patency. However, recent studies have shown lower patency without a wound complication benefit. We sought to further define the wound complication and patency rates of endoscopic harvest compared with open harvest in infrainguinal arterial bypass procedures. Methods Infrainguinal bypasses performed from 2000 to 2011 were analyzed. Only procedures using a single segment of great saphenous vein were included. Cases were grouped according to endoscopic or open harvest and were frequency-matched for body mass index and diabetes. Baseline characteristics were compared. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine correlation of baseline data and harvest method on wound complications and patency. Results The study included 76 bypasses; 35 in the endoscopic harvest group and 41 in the open harvest group. Baseline characteristics between the endoscopic and open harvest groups were not significantly different, with the exception of mean age, which was older in the endoscopic harvest group, and carotid artery disease, which was more common in the open harvest group. There was no significant difference between endoscopic and open harvest in 30-day wound complication rates (29% vs 27%; P = .87) or in the other perioperative variables, aside from decreased narcotic use in the endoscopic harvest group ( P = .01). Mean follow-up was 747 days. There was no significant difference in 3-year primary (47% vs 49%; P = .8), 3-year primary-assisted (88% vs 73%; P = .1), or secondary patency rates (92% vs 76%; P = .09) at 3 years between the endoscopic and open harvest groups. High body mass index improved primary patency in the endoscopic harvest group ( P = .02), but had no effect on patency in the open harvest group ( P = .15). Patients requiring hemodialysis had increased risk for loss of primary assisted patency in both groups (endoscopic, P = .02; open, P = .02) and decreased secondary patency in the open harvest group ( P = .04). Conclusions Endoscopic and open harvest techniques for infrainguinal arterial bypass provide similar rates of wound complications and bypass patency, whereas hemodialysis negatively affects patency after both harvest methods. Endoscopic harvest is associated with the need for less perioperative narcotics, suggesting a potential benefit of endoscopic harvest that deserves further study.
Linear algebra and image processing

We use the computing technology digital image processing (DIP) to enhance the teaching of linear algebra so as to make the course more visual and interesting. Certainly, this visual approach by using technology to link linear algebra to DIP is interesting and unexpected to both students as well as many faculty.
Sef inhibits fibroblast growth factor signaling by inhibiting FGFR1 tyrosine phosphorylation and subsequent ERK activation.

Abstract Signaling through fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) is essential for many cellular processes including proliferation and migration as well as differentiation events such as angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and chondrogenesis. Recently, genetic screens in Drosophila and gene expression screens in zebrafish have resulted in the identification of several feedback inhibitors of FGF signaling. One of these, Sef (similarexpression to fgf genes), encodes a transmembrane protein that belongs to the FGF synexpression group. Here we show that like zebrafish Sef (zSef), mouse Sef (mSef) interacts with FGFR1 and that the cytoplasmic domain of mSef mediates this interaction. Overexpression of mSef in NIH3T3 cells results in a decrease in FGF-induced cell proliferation associated with a decrease in Tyr phosphorylation of FGFR1 and FRS2. As a consequence, there is a reduction in the phosphorylation of Raf-1 at Ser338, MEK1/2 at Ser217 and Ser221, and ERK1/2 at Thr202 and Tyr204. Furthermore, mSef inhibits ERK activation mediated by a constitutively activated FGFR1 but not by a constitutively active Ras and decreases FGF but not PDGF-mediated activation of Akt. These results indicate that Sef exerts its inhibitory effects at the level of FGFR and upstream of Ras providing an additional level of negative regulation of FGF signaling.
Effect of Heat-Treated Titanium Surfaces on Protein Adsorption and Osteoblast Precursor Cell Initial Attachment

The clinical success of dental implants is governed in part by surface properties of implants and their interactions with the surrounding tissues. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of heat-treated titanium surfaces on protein adsorption and osteoblast precursor cell attachmen
Influence of sampling scale on apparent distribution of meiofauna on a sandflat

The effect of sampling scale on apparent distribution of meiofauna was demonstrated by simulating the sampling of a “known” distribution with three different sampling schemes. Small-scale sampling gave better reproduction of the original pattern than larger scales, which tended to homogenize patchiness. My results suggest that for intracommunity meiofaunal research, roughly fifty 0.5–1.0 cm2 cores is a reasonable first guess “optimum” sampling scheme. The position of the cores should be random but their position relative to each other should be noted so the spatial information may be utilized in analysis.