cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analyses of variants of the Ser/Thr dehydratase IlvA provide insight into 2-aminoacrylate metabolism in Salmonella enterica.

RidA is a conserved and broadly distributed protein that has enamine deaminase activity. In a variety of organisms tested thus far, lack of RidA results in the accumulation of the reactive metabolite 2-aminoacrylate (2AA), an obligate intermediate in the catalytic mechanism of several pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzymes. This study reports the characterization of variants of the biosynthetic serine/threonine dehydratase (EC 4.3.1.19; IlvA), which is a significant generator of 2AA in the bacteria Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Two previously identified mutations, ilvA3210 and ilvA3211, suppressed the phenotypic growth consequences of 2AA accumulation in S. enterica. Characterization of the respective protein variants suggested that they affect 2AA metabolism in vivo by two different catalytic mechanisms, both leading to an overall reduction in serine dehydratase activity. To emphasize the physiological relevance of the in vitro enzyme characterization, we sought to explain in vivo phenotypes using these data. A simple mathematical model describing the impact these catalytic deficiencies had on 2AA production was generally supported by our data. However, caveats arose when kinetic parameters, determined in vitro, were used to predict formation of the isoleucine precursor 2-ketobutyrate and model in vivo (growth) behaviors. Altogether, our data support the need for a holistic approach, including in vivo and in vitro analyses, to generate data used in understanding and modeling metabolism.
Differences in the relation between temperament and vocabulary based on children's stuttering trajectories.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the relation between temperament and vocabulary development for children who stutter and persist, children who stutter and recover and children who do not stutter. Methods Participants, aged 3;0–4;11 at the start of the study, were followed for two years. They were classified as persisting (n = 10), recovered (n = 26), and non-stuttering (n = 24) based on multiple assessments of stuttering spaced across study participation. Groups were balanced for age and gender ratios. At each visit, participants completed the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, 4th edition, and the Expressive Vocabulary Test, 2nd edition; caregivers completed the Children’s Behavior Questionnaire. Results For both persisting and recovered groups, higher negative emotionality was associated with lower receptive vocabulary. These associations were both significantly more negative than the non-stuttering group’s association. Conclusion These findings suggest that receptive vocabulary development is differentially linked to temperament based on a child’s stuttering status. As others have speculated (Conture & Walden, 2012), it appears as though there are salient associations between temperament, speech-language development, and childhood stuttering.
Resident bullying in diagnostic radiology.

Abstract Purpose Workplace bullying has been reported in multiple medical specialties outside of diagnostic radiology within the United States. The purpose of this study was to survey diagnostic radiology residents in the United States to determine if: (1) residents had experienced bullying, (2) residents had witnessed bullying of other residents, (3) residents were aware of zero-tolerance policy for workplace bullying at their institution, (4) residents were aware of no retaliation policies for reporting bullying at their institution. Materials and methods In December 2017, a weekly E-mail for 4 weeks was sent to diagnostic radiology residents in the United States (residents) who had attended the July 2017, September 2017 and October 2017 4-week American Institute for Radiologic Pathology (AIRP) resident course to participate in an online, anonymous, voluntary survey. Results 28% of radiology resident respondents reported workplace bullying during their residency. One third of radiology residents have witnessed workplace bullying of another radiology resident at their facility. Approximately one half (48%) of respondents did not know if their institution had a zero-tolerance policy for workplace bullying, and approximately one half (55%) of respondents did not know if their institution had a no retaliation policy for reporting workplace bullying. Conclusion Our survey of diagnostic radiology residents across the United States confirms workplace bullying during residency, and the opportunity for implementation of zero-tolerance and zero retaliation policies for reporting workplace bullying in residency training institutions.
Anatomy and Target Delineation: Definitive and Postoperative Adjuvant Radiation Therapy in Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is a relatively rare, complex tumor site to treat. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy all play a significant role in achieving cure and lasting locoregional control. Due to the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with uncontrolled or recurrent disease, careful attention to target volumes and a good understanding of patterns of spread are crucial in optimizing outcomes for these patients. This chapter provides guidance on the appropriate target volumes, treatment dose, and normal tissue dose constraints for this tumor site.
Sex Differences in the Central Control of Sodium Appetite and Blood Pressure

Abstract High salt intake is one of the major causes of high blood pressure and an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Several large cohort studies have demonstrated lower daily sodium intakes in women compared to men, throughout the world in both developed and underdeveloped countries, making it tempting to associate the lower incidence of cardiovascular disease in women to that of lower sodium intake. Significant changes in salt appetite and sodium intake occur across the female life cycle, in particular during pregnancy and lactation, and, importantly, after menopause. This chapter surveys the existing literature on sex differences in salt consumption and introduces a robust scientific literature examining the phenomenon in animal models. Even in those well-characterized animal models, holes exist in our knowledge and the final motivational site(s) for salt preference remain elusive.
Smokers with opioid use disorder may have worse drug use outcomes after varenicline than nicotine replacement

Abstract Introduction Smokers with opioid use disorder (OUD) have little success with smoking cessation, possibly due to interactions between nicotine and opioid receptor systems. Smokers with OUD versus non-opioid substance use disorders (NOUD) have not been compared for response to smoking treatment. Data to make this comparison came from our previous study of 12 weeks (plus dose run-up) of varenicline (VAR) versus 12 weeks of nicotine patch (NRT), in a double-placebo design. Methods The current study reports secondary analyses comparing smokers with OUD (n = 47) and NOUD (n = 90) on pretreatment smoking, alcohol and drug use, intolerance of physical discomfort, smoking medication adherence, and 3- and 6-month smoking and substance use outcomes (by VAR versus NRT). Results Smokers with OUD did not differ on pretreatment alcohol or smoking measures while reporting significantly more drug use days. Smokers with OUD versus NOUD had significantly fewer days adherent to VAR or placebo capsules but not to patches, and were more tolerant of physical discomfort. While smoking and heavy drinking days at follow-ups did not differ by diagnosis, smokers with OUD had significantly more drug use days in months 4–6 when assigned to VAR (16.4 days) than to NRT (8.1 days). Conclusions NRT might be a better choice than VAR for smokers with OUD due to lower adherence and more drug use days with VAR. However, this novel comparison of smoking pharmacotherapy response in smokers with OUD versus NOUD needs to be confirmed with larger numbers of participants.
Ethical Motivation and Vegetarian Dieting: The Underlying Role of Anti-speciesist Attitudes

ABSTRACTThe most common motivation people have for becoming vegetarian is ethical concern about using animals for food. One ideology called speciesism—which entails assigning different moral worth ...
An EM algorithm to improve the estimation of the probability of clonal relatedness of pairs of tumors in cancer patients

We previously introduced a random-effects model to analyze a set of patients, each of which has two distinct tumors. The goal is to estimate the proportion of patients for which one of the tumors is a metastasis of the other, i.e. where the tumors are clonally related. Matches of mutations within a tumor pair provide the evidence for clonal relatedness. In this article, using simulations, we compare two estimation approaches that we considered for our model: use of a constrained quasi-Newton algorithm to maximize the likelihood conditional on the random effect, and an Expectation-Maximization algorithm where we further condition the random-effect distribution on the data. In some specific settings, especially with sparse information, the estimation of the parameter of interest is at the boundary a non-negligible number of times using the first approach, while the EM algorithm gives more satisfactory estimates. This is of considerable importance for our application, since an estimate of either 0 or 1 for the proportion of cases that are clonal leads to individual probabilities being 0 or 1 in settings where the evidence is clearly not sufficient for such definitive probability estimates. The EM algorithm is a preferable approach for our clonality random-effect model. It is now the method implemented in our R package Clonality, making available an easy and fast way to estimate this model on a range of applications.
Linking pyrometry to porosity in additively manufactured metals

Abstract Porosity in additively manufactured metals can reduce material strength and is generally undesirable. Although studies have shown relationships between process parameters and porosity, monitoring strategies for defect detection and pore formation are still needed. In this paper, instantaneous anomalous conditions are detected in-situ via pyrometry during laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing and correlated with voids observed using post-build micro-computed tomography. Large two-color pyrometry data sets were used to estimate instantaneous temperatures, melt pool orientations and aspect ratios. Machine learning algorithms were then applied to processed pyrometry data to detect outlier images and conditions. It is shown that melt pool outliers are good predictors of voids observed post-build. With this approach, real time process monitoring can be incorporated into systems to detect defect and void formation. Alternatively, using the methodology presented here, pyrometry data can be post processed for porosity assessment.
Electronic Raman Scattering of Overdoped Tl 2 Ba 2 CuO 6+δ in High Magnetic Fields

The excitations across the superconducting gap ( $2\ensuremath{\Delta}$-peak in ${B}_{1g}$-symmetry Raman spectra) in an overdoped ${\mathrm{Tl}}_{2}{\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}{\mathrm{CuO}}_{6+\ensuremath{\delta}}$ single crystal have been studied as a function of temperature and field. The $2\ensuremath{\Delta}$-peak intensity, which we interpret as the density of the superconducting condensate around the gap antinodes, is a linear function of temperature, but a nonlinear function of the field. The latter is attributed to renormalization of quasiparticle spectra in the vicinity of vortex lines in the mixed state. The $2\ensuremath{\Delta}$-peak is present above the irreversibility line and yields a conventional temperature dependence of the effective upper critical field.
Obesity-driven changes in ECM composition promote local invasion and metastasis of breast tumors

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a major component of the tumor microenvironment that supports cellular growth, promotes local invasion from the primary tumor, and contributes to metastatic outgrowth in sites of colonization. Obesity is a systemic disease that causes chronic inflammation which can lead to ECM deposition and ultimately fibrosis in adipose tissues such as the mammary gland. Overweight breast cancer patients have increased metastasis to the lung and liver, exhibit resistance to chemotherapy and have worse outcomes. We found that ECM isolated from the mammary gland of both tumor-bearing and obese mice increased invasion of breast cancer cells and set out to investigate whether obesity-driven changes in ECM could identify novel drivers of invasion and metastasis in breast cancer. We performed proteomics of the mammary fat pads of both lean and obese mice and identified the entire landscape of obesity-driven ECM changes. In particular, we focused on Collagen VI, an ECM protein secreted by adipocytes in mammary tissues. Collagen VI is upregulated in the ECM of obese and tumor-bearing mice and is associated with poor outcome in human breast cancer. We found that Collagen VI drives adhesion, migration and invasion of several human breast cancer cell lines via crosstalk between the adhesion receptor NG2 and the receptor tyrosine kinase EGFR, and activation of MAPK signaling. Overall, these studies demonstrate that obesity can have profound effects on the ECM composition of tissues, which in turn can promote local invasion and metastasis.
Multisensory integration in the mouse cortical connectome using a network diffusion model

Having a structural network representation of connectivity in the brain is instrumental in analyzing communication dynamics and neural information processing. In this work, we make steps towards un...
Virus-Like Particle: Evolving Meanings in Different Disciplines

Virus-like particle (VLP) is a term that has been in use for about 80 years. Usually, VLP has meant a particle that is like a virus, generally by appearance, but without either proven or actual vir...
Acute Ocular Effects of Sphenopalatine Ganglion Nerve Block.

Aim and objective The goal of this study was to measure acute ocular effects in patients undergoing routine sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) nerve block for headache. Projections from the SPG influence blood flow to the eye which may influence intraocular pressure (IOP). There are limited animal and human studies investigating the relationship between the SPG and its effect on the eye. Materials and methods This was a single-site, investigator-initiated, single-visit, prospective study. Participants were aged 18-85 years old who had consented to SPG nerve block for headache. The primary outcome measures were change in near visual acuity (NVA) and IOP pre-procedure to immediately post-procedure. Additional data collected included pupil diameter and presence of any ocular or visual complaints. Results A total of 13 patients were enrolled in the study. Average pre-procedure IOP was 14.2 mm Hg [standard deviation (SD) 3.8] in the right eye and 13.7 mm Hg (SD 3.2) in the left eye. Average post-procedure IOP was 14.8 mm Hg (SD 3.8) in the right eye and 14.2 mm Hg (SD 2.9) in the left eye. Neither the right nor left eye experienced a statistically significant change in IOP after SPG block. There were no statistically significant changes in average NVA or pupil diameter in either eye. There were no adverse events. Conclusion and clinical significance This pilot study suggests no significant acute changes in IOP or other ocular parameters after SPG block for headache disorders and supports the fact that the procedure is safe as it relates to ocular health. The ocular effects of SPG blockade merit further study in a larger cohort of patients. How to cite this article Siegel DT, Ertel MK, Patnaik JL, et al. Acute Ocular Effects of Sphenopalatine Ganglion Nerve Block. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2020;14(2):57-60.
Academic Social Capital of Students from an Alternative School: An Ego Network Perspective

This study looked to explore the access to academic social capital for those who have considering dropping out. The research utilized social network analysis, specifically ego networks, to explore ...
Basal cell carcinoma histopathologic upgrading and Mohs micrographic surgery: a single institution, retrospective review.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) histopathology can differ between original biopsy and wide local excision or Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). We aimed to analyze the rate of difference in BCC subtypes between the original biopsy and MMS frozen section to determine the rate of histopathological upgrading and also to identify risk factors for upgrading. A single institution, retrospective cohort study of patients with BCC treated with MMS was performed at the University of Texas Southwestern. Screening criteria identified 3235 BCCs. Of these, 1289 tumors were identified as having lower-grade pathology on initial biopsy. 291 (22.6%) of the lower-grade pathology tumors were upgraded to a higher-grade pathology. Tumors with an upgraded pathology had significantly greater number of stages performed [mean of 2.5 vs 2.3, p < 0.001], pre-operative size [median of 1.0 cm vs 0.8 cm, p < 0.001], and post-operative size [median of 2.0 cm vs 1.7 cm, p < 0.001]. These tumors were significantly more likely to require more advanced repairs [36.8% (107/291) vs 29.8% (297/998), p = 0.03] and be referred for post-operative radiation [1.7% (5/291) vs 0.0% (0/998), p < 0.001]. In addition, there were a significantly greater number of tumors considered recurrent (received prior surgical or non-surgical treatment) in the upgraded pathology group [8.6% (25/291) vs 3.9% (39/998), p < 0.01]. Our study highlights that a significant proportion of these patients are under-graded on initial biopsy and would benefit from more definitive intervention, such as MMS.
Structural characterization of the Phitsanulok basin, onshore Thailand, and regional tectonic implications

Abstract The Phitsanulok basin is the largest onshore rift basin in Thailand and has been a major hydrocarbon producer for over 30 years. The basin formed in the mid-Cenozoic and was episodically reactivated after the early Miocene from nearby active tectonics, including the India-Asia collision. The basin is formed near a key tectonic transition between north and south Thailand between 16°N and 18°N. Previous studies recognized a north-south variation in structural styles across the Phitsanulok basin that may express deeper basement structures. The northern Phitsanulok basin is predominantly extensional whereas the southern basin shows unconformities, folding, and reverse faults from stronger inversion. Here we systematically characterize structural domains within the Phitsanulok basin from a basin-wide 2D and 3D petroleum industry seismic dataset and examine our observations within the context of regional tectonics. Our analysis includes time structure and isochron maps, spatial fault patterns, fault dip angles, fault throws, and fault azimuths. We find the most dramatic structural changes occur between the northern and southern Phitsanulok basin across 16°50′N latitudes. North of 16°50′N, the Phitsanulok basin has near-planar, steeply-dipping normal faults; arrays of low displacement, cross-cutting synthetic and antithetic extensional faults; and, a thickened and relatively undeformed Sukhothai depression that had up to 1700 ms two-way time (TWT) thickness (~2.3 km) between the Pliocene to Upper Early Miocene strata. In contrast, south of 16°50′N the basin has listric extensional faults; an abruptly thinner stratigraphic section (~400 ms TWT between the Pliocene to Upper Early Miocene strata; ~0.4 km), more gently-dipping faults, and larger fault throws. Our interpreted 16°50′N structural transition occurs near the southern limit of major earthquakes, changes in regional fault trends, and ENE-WSW magnetic lineaments and may highlight deep basement fabrics.
Motion Planning of Mobile Robots for Autonomous Navigation on Uneven Ground Surfaces

AbstractWith the increasing interest in mobile robots for construction applications, autonomous navigation in unstructured and uneven construction sites has become a critical challenge. To ensure t...
Intimate Partner Violence and the Pediatric Electronic Health Record: A Qualitative Study: Intimate Partner Violence and Electronic Health Records

Abstract Objectives To explore expert perspectives on risks associated with the pediatric electronic health record (EHR) for intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors and their children and to identify strategies that may mitigate these risks. Methods We conducted semistructured interviews with multidisciplinary pediatric IPV experts (nursing, physicians, social workers, hospital security, IPV advocates) recruited via snowball sampling. We coded interview transcripts using thematic analysis, then consolidated codes into themes. Results Twenty-eight participants completed interviews. Participants identified the primary source of risk as an abuser's potential access to a child's EHR by legal and illegal means. They noted that abuser's access to multiple pediatric EHR components (eg, online health portals, clinical notes, contact information) may result in escalated violence, stalking, and manipulation of IPV survivors. Suggested risk mitigation strategies included limited and coded documentation, limiting EHR access, and discussing documentation with the IPV survivor. Challenges to using these strategies included healthcare providers’ usual practice of detailed documentation and that information documented may confer both risk and benefit concurrently. Reported potential benefits of the pediatric EHR for IPV survivors included ensuring continuity of care, decreasing need to repeatedly talk about trauma histories, and communication of safety plans. Conclusions Our findings suggest the pediatric EHR may confer both risks and benefits for IPV survivors and their children. Further work is needed to develop best practices to address IPV risks related to the pediatric EHR, to ensure consistent use of these practices, and to include these practices as standard functionalities of the pediatric EHR.
Vinyl alcohol formation via catalytic β-dehydrogenation of ethanol on Ir(100)

Abstract Dehydrogenation of ethanol, CH3CH2OH, on Ir(100) was studied using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. β-dehydrogenation of ethanol to CH2CH2OH has the lowest energy barrier, 0.30eV, among the three pathways. Vinyl alcohol (VA, CH2CHOH), can be formed from dehydrogenation of CH2CH2OH by overcoming an energy barrier of 0.59 eV. The DFT results indicate that ethanol dehydrogenation on Ir(100) to acetaldehyde in a fuel cell environment is most likely through β-dehydrogenation to VA followed by enol-keto tautomerization. Furthermore, the facile VA formation on Ir(100) reveals that polymerization of vinyl alcohol to synthesize polyvinyl alcohol is an intriguing pathway to be further explored.
The Effect of Flight and Configuration Variables on Thermal Stresses in Diamond-Shaped Supersonic Wings

For aircraft traveling at high supersonic speeds, approximate stagnation temperatures exist in the boundary layer surrounding the aircraft. If the aircraft has accelerated rapidly to a high supersonic speed, large transient temperature gradients will be introduced, which may, in turn, cause high thermal stresses. Methods for the determination of the transient temperatures and the stresses resulting from these temperatures are presented for solid diamond-shaped airfoils. Numerical results are given, showing the effects of several flight and configuration variables based on a wing of given specifications. I t is shown that the maximum thermal stresses occurring in the chosen wing are compressive stresses at the leading edge. I t is further shown for the severe flight conditions assumed that these stresses are of large magnitude.
Studies in helminth enzymology. VI. Aminopeptidases from uterine extracts of Ascaris suum.

Abstract Two aminopeptidases which hydrolyze l -leucine-β-naphthyamide were partially purified from uterine extracts of adult Ascaris suum . A 29-fold purification of one aminopeptidase was achieved by ammonium sulfate precipitation, fractionation on carboxymethylcellulose and Sephadex G-100. The other aminopeptidase constituted only a small portion of the total aminopeptidase activity and was prepared by DEAE-cellulose fractionation. Both enzymes were maximally activated by cobalt ion but varied somewhat in activation by other divalent metallic ions. Other characteristics were used to distinguish these aminopeptidases and to differentiate them from the previously purified aminopeptidase from intestinal extracts of Ascaris suum .
Isolation and Characterization of Clostridium botulinum Type B Toxin

A procedure is described for the preparation in homogeneous form of the neurotoxin found in cultures of Clostridium botulinum type B. The toxin is a protein of molecular weight 167,000 and consists of at least two subunits. The molecular weights of the subunits are approximately 59,000 and 104,000. The toxin is irreversibly inactivated by p-chloromercuribenzoate, iodoacetic acid, and iodoacetamide. The protein contains a large proportion of hydrophobic amino acids, especially isoleucine and tryptophan. Fluorescence studies on the toxin show that all of the tryptophan residues are probably located in highly apolar environments.
A measurement-based analysis of the interaction between network layers in TinyOS

There have been a number of recent proposals for link and network-layer protocols in the sensor networking literature, each of which claims to be superior to other approaches. However, a proposal for a networking protocol at a given layer in the stack is typically evaluated in the context of a single set of carefully selected protocols at other layers. Because of the limited data available about interactions between different protocols at various layers of the stack, it is difficult for developers of sensor network applications to select from amongst the range of alternative sensor networking protocols. This paper evaluates the interaction between several protocols at the MAC and network layers measuring their performance in terms of end-to-end throughput and loss on a large testbed. We identify some common sources of poor performance; based on this experience, we propose a set of design principles for the designers of future interfaces.
Professional Skills and Values in Legal Education: The GPS Model

Over the last four decades, a series of studies by the bar and the academy assessed the strengths and weaknesses of legal education and advocated that law schools aim to better prepare students for the profession – the Cramton Report, MacCrate Report, Carnegie Report, and Best Practices Project. Surveys of practicing lawyers in Illinois, Minnesota, Montana, and Arizona identified the professional skills and values important to success in the practice of law. This article briefly summarizes the recommendations of those reports and the survey results. It then offers one model of educating law students in professional skills and values. It describes the development of the General Practice Skills course, a six-credit, required, simulation-based course that directly addresses skills and professionalism. The article makes recommendations for the design and delivery of courses that aim to answer the call for legal education to more fully prepare students for the practice of law.
Remote radio observations of solar wind parameters upstream of planetary bow shocks

Radio emission is frequently produced at twice the electron plasma frequency 2fp in the foreshock region upstream of the terrestrial bow shock. Observations of this emission provide a remote diagnostic of solar wind parameters in the foreshock. Using ISEE-3 radio data, we present the first evidence that the radio intensity is proportional to the kinetic energy flux and to other parameters correlated with solar wind density. We provide a qualitative explanation of this intensity behavior and predict the detection of similar emission at Jupiter by the Ulysses spacecraft.
The Application of the Haddon Matrix to Public Health Readiness and Response Planning

State and local health departments continue to face unprecedented challenges in preparing for, recognizing, and responding to threats to the public's health. The attacks of 11 September 2001 and the ensuing anthrax mailings of 2001 highlighted the public health readiness and response hurdles posed by intentionally caused injury and illness. At the same time, recent natural disasters have highlighted the need for comparable public health readiness and response capabilities. Public health readiness and response activities can be conceptualized similarly for intentional attacks, natural disasters, and human-caused accidents. Consistent with this view, the federal government has adopted the all-hazards response model as its fundamental paradigm. Adoption of this paradigm provides powerful improvements in efficiency and efficacy, because it reduces the need to create a complex family of situation-specific preparedness and response activities. However, in practice, public health preparedness requires additional models and tools to provide a framework to better understand and prioritize emergency readiness and response needs, as well as to facilitate solutions; this is particularly true at the local health department level. Here, we propose to extend the use of the Haddon matrix--a conceptual model used for more than two decades in injury prevention and response strategies--for this purpose.
Acute and Subacute Toxicology and Safety Evaluation of SMA 1440-H Resin

(1977). Acute and Subacute Toxicology and Safety Evaluation of SMA 1440-H Resin. Clinical Toxicology: Vol. 10, No. 2, pp. 255-260.
Effects of hydrostatic pressure on the location of PRODAN in lipid bilayers and cellular membranes

The effects of hydrostatic pressure on the location of 6-propionyl-2-(dimethylamino)naphthalene (PRODAN), an environmentally sensitive fluorescent probe, in phosphatidylcholine lipid bilayers and in goldfish brain synaptic membranes have been studied by fluorescence spectroscopy over the pressure range of 0.001-2 kbar. The emission spectrum of PRODAN in all the membrane systems examined exhibits two local maxima: one centers at around 435 nm and the other at about 510 nm. The intensity ratio of these two peaks, F435/F510, increases as pressure increases; in the particular case of dimyristoyl-L-alpha-phosphatidylcholine multilamellar vesicles [DMPC(MLV)], a dramatic change in F435/F510 appears at the lipid phase transition pressure. As pressure varies, an isoemissive point is seen in both egg yolk phosphatidylcholines and goldfish brain synaptic membranes; however, no isoemissive point is observed in DMPC(MLV). The presence of an isoemissive point is attributed to a pressure-induced relocation of PRODAN from the "polar" disposition (the 510-nm peak) to the "less polar" disposition (the 435-nm peak). The absence of an isoemissive point in the case of DMPC(MLV) is probably due to the lack of void space in the lipid matrix, as a result of tight lipid packing. Apparently, the probe relocation takes place in unsaturated systems, and PRODAN favors a more hydrophobic environment under pressure. However, on the basis of the emission spectra, PRODAN seems to remain more or less at the interfacial region over the pressure range examined. In goldfish brain synaptic membranes, the PRODAN polarization increases with pressure, giving dT/dP values of 15-20 degrees C kbar-1 for both dispositions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Load modeling and voltage optimization using smart meter infrastructure

Voltage - Var Control and Optimization (VVC&O) mechanism in distribution system assisted by local controllers and Distributed Management System (DMS) helps in meeting operating criterion and achieving energy savings. Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) with VVC&O allows reduction in peak load and energy consumption, by having flat voltage profile near lower bound of ANSI Standards (114V), while maintaining power factor within limit. To estimate the energy saving, CVR factor is needed and accurate load modeling is required to estimate CVR factors. In this work, distribution system was modeled and simulated utilizing data from one of the feeder in Pullman, WA. This paper presents the results of the study done on improving the VVC capabilities by integrating Smart Meter Infrastructure. Load Modeling was done by observing the behavior of loads at each house and comparing the smart meter data with the simulation results. Precision of developed load model provides enough information to make a decision on required changes in voltage at a substation at a given time for energy saving without violating operation criterion. Results of VVC&O show that energy saving of 4-5% can be achieved at the typical distribution substation.
Infall of Matter in Galaxies

Arguments based on the existence of intergalactic matter are advanced to show that this matter may interact with and be accreted by galaxies to produce observable consequences. The diversity of the phenomena that results from such processes offers a possible understanding of some of the properties of extragalactic systems.
Cars, Cultures, and Cures@: Environmental Education For K-12

My role as an environmental anthropologist has allowed me to work in many national and international settings. With an interest in culture, technology and the environment, I have focused on environmental issues concerning air pollution and climate change. I have worked with the USEPA managing national surveys and on projects on the US/Mexico border. Most recently, I have worked with the City of Fort Collins, Colorado in an effort to develop an environmental education course that can be delivered to junior high/middle school (preferably 9th grade) students. The purpose of this course is to heighten awareness of personal responsibility as it relates to the automobile and the environment within the context of the American Culture. As an anthropologist, my role was to help the students gain an understanding of the "American Car Culture" and to see how their attitudes and actions reflect their culture and effect their environment. I did this by developing a slide presentation that introduced the concept of the...
Polymer nanocomposite coatings with non-linear elastic response

Abstract We fabricated polymer nanocomposite layered coatings with distinguished, non-linear nanomechanical behavior. The tri-layer film, with a total thickness of 20–30 nm, was composed of a hard topmost layer of a cross-linked poly(dimethacrylate), a compliant rubber interlayer, and a self-assembled monolayer chemically tethered to a silicon substrate. Nanometer scale deformation of this coating produced a non-linear elastic response with high initial resistance followed by more compliant behavior before higher resistance showed up again in highly compressed (about 60% of initial thickness) state. Deformation of the film was completely reversible due to the properties of the rubber interlayer and the grainy microstructure of the topmost layer. Such non-linear surface behavior is quite unique and brings a new prospective in the design of organized surfaces with tailored nanomechanical response.
A review of enteral strategies in infant short bowel syndrome: evidence-based or NICU culture?

Abstract Introduction Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is an increasingly common condition encountered across neonatal intensive care units. Improvements in parenteral nutrition (PN), neonatal intensive care and surgical techniques, in addition to an improved understanding of SBS pathophysiology, have contributed in equal parts to the survival of this fragile subset of infants. Prevention of intestinal failure associated liver disease (IFALD) and promotion of intestinal adaptation are primary goals of all involved in the care of these patients. While enteral nutritional and pharmacological strategies are necessary to achieve these goals, there remains great variability in the application of therapeutic strategies in units that are not necessarily evidence-based. Materials and Methods A search of major English language medical databases (SCOPUS, Index Medicus, Medline, and the Cochrane database) was conducted for the key words short bowel syndrome, medical management, nutritional management and intestinal adaptation. All pharmacological and nutritional agents encountered in the literature search were classified based on their effects on absorptive capacity, intestinal adaptation and bowel motility that are the three major strategies employed in the management of SBS. The Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) classification for levels of evidence was used to develop grades of clinical recommendation for each variable studied. Results We reviewed various medications used and nutritional strategies included soluble fiber, enteral fat, glutamine, probiotics and sodium supplementation. Most interventions have scientific rationale but little evidence to support their role in the management of infant SBS. While some of these agents symptomatically improve diarrhea, they can adversely influence pancreatico-biliary function or actually impair intestinal adaptation. Surgical anatomy and liver function are two important variables that should determine the selection of pharmacological and nutritional interventions. Discussion There is a paucity of research investigating optimal clinical practice in infant SBS and the little evidence available is consistently of lower quality, resulting in a wide variation of clinical practices among NICUs. Prospective trials should be encouraged to bridge the evidence gap between research and clinical practice to promote further progress in the field.
Using array processing to isolate seismic signals from noise and interferers of cultural origin

This paper examines the use of arrays of seismic sensors to enhance signals where multiple sources and an inhomogeneous medium complicate the received signal. Array processing is useful because it offers the opportunity to enhance SNR of the target signal while attenuating noise sources via spatiotemporal filtering. We used an adaptive beamforming algorithm to isolate the particular signal of interest from ambient noise and an interferer. The unpredictable nature of the noise and interferer environment was addressed by having the beamformer adapt to the environment. We present the results of using the beamformer on data from a thirty- geophone array. Initial results indicate inhomogeneities in the vacinity of the seismic sensors caused the significant perturbations to the wavefront. The adaptive algorithm was able to compensate for this and thereby performed better than the traditional delay-and-sum algorithm at isolating the target signal from the interfering signals.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Conversion of δ-(sulfonyl)amino-α-epoxy ketones to bicyclic ketopyrroles via intramolecular conjugate-addition to azoene intermediates. Synthesis of the bicyclic ketopyrrole core of the 1-azafulvene roseophllin

Abstract Reaction of δ-(sulfonyl)amino-α-epoxy ketones with dimethylhydrazine results in cyclization to pyrrolidine-fused β-hydroxy dimethylhydrazones. Hydrolysis, mesylation, and elimination affords dihydropyrroles which can be converted to sulfonyl-protected ketopyrroles via oxidation with NIS; alternatively, treatment with DBU affords NH bearing ketopyrroles.
Inhalation exposure to JP-8 jet fuel alters pulmonary function and substance P levels in Fischer 344 rats

In a simulated military flightline exposure protocol, Fischer 344 rats (F344) were used to investigate the pulmonary effects of JP-8 jet fuel inhalation. Exposures were nose only and for 1 h daily. Groups were exposed for 7 days (7D) or 28 days (28D). Each exposure group had a matched longitudinal control group (LC7 and LC28). Exposure concentrations of 520 mg m-3 caused an increase in dynamic compliance after 7 days of exposure, but compliance changes were not seen with continued exposure (28D, 495 mg m-3). Pulmonary resistance was increased in both 7- and 28-day JP-8-exposed groups. Changes in pulmonary function were accompanied by a decrease in substance P concentrations from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). No significant change was observed in BALF levels of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the stable metabolite of prostacyclin, which is a marker of endothelial cell function. The JP-8-exposed rats gained significantly less weight during the study period than the LC7 and LC28 groups, and the lungs of the 7D group were heavier by wet lung/body weight ratio (WtL/WtB). Alveolar clearance of technetium-labelled diethylenetriamine pentaacetate ([99mTc]DTPA) was increased in jet fuel-exposed groups. Light microscopy showed no pathological evidence of lung injury. Recovery from the early pulmonary effects of JP-8 inhalation occurred with continued exposure, as seen by recovery of pulmonary compliance and WtL/WtB.
Identification and partial characterization of novel genes by differential display of mRNAs in squamous papillomas induced in skin of SENCAR mice

Using the technique of differential display of mRNAs, we isolated 42 differentially expressed cDNAs from squamous papillomas induced in the skin of SENCAR mice by a standard 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene initiation and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate promotion protocol. Thirty-one of the cDNAs were cloned and sequenced and the sequences compared with the catalogued sequences in the GenBank/EMBL DNA databases. Two of the cDNA clones-pJTM-4 and pJTM-12-showed insignificant homology with the known murine DNA and protein sequences and thus are novel gene transcripts. Putative protein product of the cDNA clone pJTM-15 showed homology to a stretch of amino acids (with a difference of two amino acids out of 16 compared) within the coding region of the previously reported murine platelet derived growth factor inducible KC protein cDNA (KC/Gro, a member of small cytokine family). By Northern blot analysis, transcripts of pJTM-4 and pJTM-12 cDNAs were found to be expressed in mRNA samples prepared from similarly induced skin tumors in other mice but were not expressed in the epidermis of either untreated mice or in uninvolved epidermis of the tumor bearing mice. Expression of pJTM-4 and pJTM-12 was also detected in mouse sarcoma and lymphosarcoma cell lines but not in a melanoma cell line. These results suggest possible involvement of these novel genes in non-melanoma skin cancer. Full length sequences of these novel transcripts and characterization of their protein products may provide useful information regarding the molecular events which occur during multistage skin carcinogenesis.
Measurement of extracellular ions in the brain

Abstract The extracellular space of the brain constitutes a restricted microenvironment which amplifies the accumulation and depletion of ions that flow across neuronal membranes. These ionic fluctuations may constitute a communication channel between neuronal groups. The fluctuations can now be studied using ion-selective micropipettes (ISMs) fabricated with liquid ion-exchangers. K + , Na + , Ca 2+ , Cl − and several ions not normally found in the brain can be studied. Generally extracellular potassium concentrations increase whilst those of other intrinsic ions decrease during neuronal activity or spreading depression and anoxia. When intrinsic ions are introduced and their behaviour is studied, new information is obtained on the biophysics of the brain cell microenvironment. Such studies with ISMs are providing a new experimental and conceptual view of the dynamic chemical behaviour of the brain.
Dispositio in the preaching of Hugh Latimer

(1968). Dispositio in the preaching of Hugh Latimer. Speech Monographs: Vol. 35, No. 4, pp. 451-461.
TGF-β in Th17 Cell Development: The Truth Is Out There

As Th17 cell developmental requirements continue to be studied, Gutcher et al. (2011) demonstrate in this issue of Immunity that autocrine TGF-β cytokine promotes Th17 cell development and maintenance.
The Essay Test: A Look at the Advantages and Disadvantages.

Essay tests, at best, are easily constructed, relatively valid tests of higher cognitive processes; but they arehard to score reliably. They can beimproved by using objectives, scoringguides, and other test constructionand scoring aids.
The recall and use of traits and events in social inference processes

Abstract Social inference research needs to more closely examine the kinds of information people actually have available for making social judgments. It is assumed here that the observation of behavioral events results in encoding and storage of both a relatively raw event record and of higher level encodings, such as trait inferences. Several specific hypotheses are advanced concerning the effects of higher level encodings on event recall, and the effects of encoding and memory processes on subsequent judgments about a stimulus person. Consistent with hypotheses, results indicate that higher level encodings do affect recall for stimulus information and do affect judgments of the stimulus person. The possibility that higher level encodings affect judgments solely by introducing bias into recall for the episodic record is considered and discarded in favor of the interpretation that higher level encodings are actually recalled and used in inference processes.
Linkage between isozyme markers and a locus affecting seed size in Phaseolus vulgaris L.

Backcross and F2 progenies were produced between two bean genotypes, ‘XR-235’ and ‘Calima,’ which differ in seed weight by a factor of two. The small-seeded ‘XR-235’ was used as the pistillate and recurrent parent. These genotypes showed polymorphisms at nine isozyme loci and at the phaseolin locus. Seed size parameters (weight, length, width, and thickness) were determined for each BC1 and F2 individual, i.e., for seeds harvested from ‘XR-235’ after pollination with F1 and from the F1 after selfing, respectively. A combination of starch gel electrophoresis and enzyme activity staining was used to determine the genotype of each BC1 and F2 individual at the segregating loci. SDS-PAGE and Coomassie blue staining were used to determine geno-type at the phaseolin locus. Tests for independent assortment using two-way contingency and maximum likelihood tables revealed three linkage pairs: Aco-1 — 20 cM — Dia-1; Adh-1 — 2 cM — Got-2; and Est-2 — 11 cM — Pha. Statistical comparisons were made between the means of genotype classes at each segregating locus for all seed size parameters. The results from two independently obtained BC1s and the F2 consistently indicated that the Adh-1-Got-2 segment was linked to a locus that affected seed size and overcame maternal control over seed size. This locus has been designated Ssz-1. This gene exhibited additive gene action and accounted for 30–50% of the seed size difference between the parents.
Alterations in tissue levels of uridine diphosphate glucose dehydrogenase, uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid pyrophosphatase and glucuronyl transferase induced by substances influencing the production of ascorbic acid.

Abstract Chemical agents known to enhance the production of l -ascorbic acid in animals were studied in vivo to determine their effects on tissue levels of three enzymes which may be concerned with the biosynthesis of the vitamin. The agents were found to have differential effects on the enzymes tested. Barbital and Chloretone, but not other enhancing agents, increase the activity of UDPG dehydrogenase in liver extracts. This alternation in activity is prevented by ethionine and by hypophysectomy. The guinea-pig enzyme was similarly affected by the two drugs, although ascorbic acid is not produced. Carcinogenic hydrocarbons and aminopyrine increase the activity of glucuronyl transferase in liver. The hepatic level of UDP-glucuronic acid pyrophosphatase, on the other hand, does not respond appreciably to the enhancing agents, although ethionine and barbital administered together elevate this enzyme in liver without stimulating ascorbic acid excretion. In vitro, barbiturates have an inhibitory action on the pyrophosphatase. The alterations in enzyme activities are discussed in relation to the possibility that ascorbic acid is synthesized via a pathway involving glucuronyl transferase rather than UDP-glucuronic acid pyrophosphatase.