cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The association between height and prostate cancer grade in the Early Stage Prostate Cancer Cohort Study

We examined the relationship between height and prostate cancer grade. The Early Stage Prostate Cancer Cohort Study is an observational cohort of 1,037 men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, T0–3NxM0. High-grade prostate cancer was defined as a biopsy Gleason score ≥ 7 (4 + 3). Logistic regression models were created to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the cross-sectional relationship between height and prostate cancer grade in the overall cohort and subpopulations. We identified 939 participants with a biopsy Gleason score. High-grade prostate cancer was diagnosed in 138 participants. Overall, participants in the highest quartile of height were more than twice as likely to have a Gleason score ≥ 7 (4 + 3) than participants in the lowest quartile of height, OR 2.14 (95% CI 1.11, 4.14), after multivariate adjustment. Participants in the highest quartile of height were more likely to be diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer than participants in the lowest quartile of height among participants who were black, OR 8.00 (95% CI 1.99, 32.18), and participants who had diabetes mellitus, OR 5.09 (95% CI 1.30, 19.98). Height is associated with increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer overall and perhaps among certain subpopulations.
Genetic Associations with Plasma B12, B6, and Folate Levels in an Ischemic Stroke Population from the Vitamin Intervention for Stroke Prevention (VISP) Trial

B vitamins play an important role in homocysteine metabolism, with vitamin deficiencies resulting in increased levels of homocysteine and increased risk for stroke. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 2,100 stroke patients from the Vitamin Intervention for Stroke Prevention (VISP) trial, a clinical trial designed to determine whether the daily intake of high dose folic acid, vitamins B6 and B12 reduce recurrent cerebral infarction. Extensive quality control (QC) measures resulted in a total of 737,081 SNPs for analysis. Genome-wide association analyses for baseline quantitative measures of folate, Vitamins B12 and B6 were completed using linear regression approaches, implemented in PLINK. Six associations met or exceeded genome wide significance (P≤5x10-08). For baseline Vitamin B12, the strongest association was observed with a non-synonymous SNP (nsSNP) located in the CUBN gene (P=1.76×10-13). Two additional CUBN intronic SNPs demonstrated strong associations with B12 (P= 2.92×10-10 and 4.11×10-10), while a second nsSNP, located in the TCN1 gene, also reached genome-wide significance (P= 5.148×10-11). For baseline measures of Vitamin B6, we identified genome-wide significant associations for SNPs at the ALPL locus (rs1697421; P= 7.06×10-10 and rs1780316; P= 2.25×10-08). In addition to the six genome-wide significant associations, nine SNPs (two for Vitamin B6, six for Vitamin B12, and one for folate measures) provided suggestive evidence for association (P≤10-07). Our GWAS study has identified six genome-wide significant associations, nine suggestive associations, and successfully replicated five of 16 SNPs previously reported to be associated with measures of B vitamins. The six genome-wide significant associations are located in gene regions that have shown previous associations with measures of B vitamins, however four of the nine suggestive associations represent novel finding and warrant further investigation in additional populations.
Measurement of oxygen partial pressure within soybean nodules by oxygen microelectrodes

The internal pO2 of soybean (Glycine max Merr.) nodules was measured with oxygen microelectrodes. For nodules in air at 23°, the pO2 decreased sharply across the nodule cortex, and was too low to measure in the central tissue. At 1° in 1.0 atm O2, the pO2 in the central tissue was measurable, and was approximately uniform from the center to the edge of the central tissue. This uniformity was probably due to the intercellular air spaces of the central tissue, since infiltrating the spaces with water substantially decreased the pO2 in the central tissue. The results strongly suggest that most of the resistance to O2 diffusion into the nodule occurs within the cortex.
Subcellular distribution of large and small hepatitis delta antigen in hepatocytes of hepatitis delta virus superinfected woodchucks

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) encodes only a single protein, the hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg), which is expressed as two molecular forms (large and small) with different functions in viral replication. Compared with small antigen, large antigen has a 19 residue carboxyl terminal extension. Antibodies that recognize a large antigen-specific epitope within this carboxyl extension, or an epitope shared by both large and small antigens (total antigen), were used in immunohistochemical studies of liver sections from superinfected woodchuck carriers of woodchuck hepatitis virus. There were no differences in the subcellular distributions of large and total antigens, with both generally present only in nuclei of hepatocytes. Rare cells demonstrated cytoplasmic staining. Complete or partial granular nucleoplasmic staining with stained nucleoli was the most common pattern observed. Within 31 days of infection, 0.1% to 19% (mean = 7.4%) of all hepatocytes contained antigen. The proportion of these nuclei containing large antigen ranged from 0 to 100% (mean, 39%), and increased during the first month of infection. The number of antigen-positive nuclei and the proportion staining for large antigen were reduced with progression to chronicity, correlating with reductions in the level of viremia. Thus, the large hepatitis delta antigen shares a common subcellular distribution with small antigen and is found in an increasing proportion of the nuclei of infected cells during the course of acute infection.
Recent Charmonium Results from the Beijing Spectrometer Experiment

Recent results from the nearly 4.0 M BESI ψ(2S) event sample, the BESII ψ(2S) scan, and the recent BESII 25 M J/ψ sample are presented.
δ34S isotope values of dissolved sulfate (SO42−) as a tracer for battery acid (H2SO4) contamination in groundwater

The application of sulfur isotope (δ34S) values of sulfate in groundwater provided the information necessary to evaluate the source, transport and fate of battery acid and associated contaminants at the Gulf Coast Recycling (GCR) facility. The chemical and isotopic composition of groundwater beneath the (GCR) property, a battery recycling facility in east Tampa, Florida, varies more than expected for an area of comparable size. Sulfate (SO42−) values, for example, range from 1.2 to 11,500 mg/L and oxygen and hydrogen isotopes do not attenuate towards the weighted annual mean. Those samples that are high in sulfate generally have a low pH, which immediately indicates battery acid (H2SO4) contamination as a potential source for the sulfate. The low pH and high reactivity of the sulfuric acid groundwater cause the formation of hydrogeological microenvironments due to preferential dissolution of carbonate minerals, which in turn causes enhanced recharge and groundwater flow in certain areas; thus, the extreme scatter in the data set. Because of the difficult hydrogeology it is not straightforward to delineate the point-sources of contamination and up to five potential scenarios have to be evaluated: (1) seawater intrusion, (2) upwelling of high-sulfate groundwater, (3) local dissolution of gypsum, (4) an up-gradient contaminant source to the northeast of the GCR property and (5) battery acid contamination.
A Bcl-xL-Drp1 complex regulates synaptic vesicle membrane dynamics during endocytosis.

Recovery of neurotransmitter involves the endocytic retrieval of vesicles from the plasma membrane. Jonas and colleagues show that in hippocampal synapses, the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL enhances the recovery of a vesicle pool. It does this independently of its mitochondrial function, through its calmodulin-stimulated translocation to clathrin-coated pits and recruitment of the dynamin-related protein Drp1.
Ion implantation in semiconductors

Ion implantation is being applied extensively to silicon device technology. Two principle features are utilized- 1) charge control in MOS structures for threshold shift, autoregistration, and complementary wells and 2) distribution control in microwave and bipolar structures. Another feature that has not been extensively exploited is to combine the advantages of the high resolution capabilities of electric beam pattern delineation with the low lateral spread inherent in the implantation process. This talk reviews some of the general features of the characteristics of implanted layers in terms of depth distribution, radiation damage and electron activity. Implantation processes in silicon are reasonably well understood. There remain areas which require further clarification. For compound semiconductors, particularly GaAs, implantation techniques offer attractive possibilities for the fabrication of high frequency devices. In these materials, the substrate temperature during implantation and the dielectric coating required to prevent dissociation during thermal anneal play major roles.
The social validity of an argument supporting a ban on aversive procedures

There is currently a controversy regarding the use of non-aversive and aversive procedures in the treatment of severe behaviour problems in individuals with mental retardation. One specific criticism directed at professionals who support the non-aversive position is that they have taken quotations from scientific articles out of context in order to give the impression of empirical support for their position. The present authors addressed this issue by assessing the social validity of references made to selected scientific articles in support of a specific argument in a monograph by Guess et al. (1987). Three groups of individuals were surveyed in this study: (1) psychologists working with individuals with mental retardation at six state schools in Texas (Group I); (2) selected professionals with expertise in the area of self-injurious behaviour and in the use of behaviour modification techniques with individuals who are mentally retarded (Group II); and (3) the authors of the six journal articles that were selected for the present study (Group III). The study focused on references made to journal articles in support of the 'depersonalization hypothesis' that aversive therapies serve to depersonalize the recipients of these treatments. Results indicate that the authors of the monograph were not completely accurate in their references to the six articles. Sixty per cent of the respondents from Group I, 71% of respondents from Group II, and two out of the three respondents from Group III rated the citations made in the monograph as inaccurate. In addition, the respondents rated the articles as not supportive of the depersonalization hypothesis for which they were cited. Over half of Group I respondents, and all respondents from Groups II and III rated the articles as non-supportive of the depersonalization hypothesis. These findings suggest that the authors of the monograph have used references selectively and incorrectly in support of their views in at least some instances. This emphasizes the importance of critical reading and hypotheses based on bodies of knowledge rather than selected sources. Furthermore, this study indicates the need for operationally defined hypotheses which may be examined empirically. Language: en
Micronuclei induced in round spermatids of mice after stem-cell treatment with chloral hydrate: evaluations with centromeric DNA probes and kinetochore antibodies

The chromosomal effects of chloral hydrate (CH) on germ cells of male mice were investigated using two methods to detect and characterize spermatid micronuclei (SMN): (a) anti-kinetochore immunofluorescence (SMN-CREST) and (b) multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization with DNA probes for centromeric DNA and repetitive sequences on chromosome X (SMN-FISH). B6C3F1 mice received single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of 82.7, 165.4, or 413.5 mg/kg and round spermatids were sampled at three time intervals representing cells treated in late meiosis, early meiosis, or as spermatogonial stem cells. No increases in the frequencies of SMN were detected for cells treated during meiosis using either SMN-CREST or SMN-FISH methods. After spermatogonial stem-cell treatment, however, elevated frequencies of SMN were detected by both methods. With SMN-FISH, dose trends were observed both in the frequencies of spermatids containing micronuclei and in the frequency of spermotids carrying centromeric label. These findings corroborate the recent report by Allen and colleagues [Allen JW et al. (1994): Mutat. Res. 323:81–88] that CH treatment of spermatogenic stem cells induced SMN. Furthermore, our findings suggest that chromosomal malsegregatian or loss may occur in spermatids long after CH treatment of stem cells. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism of action of the CH effect on stem cells and to determine whether similar effects are induced in human males treated with CH. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Reduction kinetics of Fe(III), Co(III), U(VI), Cr(VI), and Tc(VII) in cultures of dissimilatory metal‐reducing bacteria

The reduction kinetics of Fe(III)citrate, Fe(III)NTA, Co(III)EDTA-, U(VI)O(2) (2+), Cr(VI)O(4) (2-), and Tc(VII)O(4) (-) were studied in cultures of dissimilatory metal reducing bacteria (DMRB): Shewanella alga strain BrY, Shewanella putrefaciens strain CN32, Shewanella oneidensis strain MR-1, and Geobacter metallireducens strain GS-15. Reduction rates were metal specific with the following rate trend: Fe(III)citrate > or = Fe(III)NTA > Co(III)EDTA- >> UO(2)(2+) > CrO(4)(2-) > TcO(4)(-), except for CrO(4) (2-) when H(2) was used as electron donor. The metal reduction rates were also electron donor dependent with faster rates observed for H(2) than lactate- for all Shewanella species despite higher initial lactate (10 mM) than H2 (0.48 mM). The bioreduction of CrO(4) (2-) was anomalously slower compared to the other metals with H(2) as an electron donor relative to lactate and reduction ceased before all the CrO(4)(2-) had been reduced. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopic (EDS) analyses performed on selected solids at experiment termination found precipitates of reduced U and Tc in association with the outer cell membrane and in the periplasm of the bacteria. The kinetic rates of metal reduction were correlated with the precipitation of reduced metal phases and their causal relationship discussed. The experimental rate data were well described by a Monod kinetic expression with respect to the electron acceptor for all metals except CrO(4)(2-), for which the Monod model had to be modified to account for incomplete reduction. However, the Monod models became statistically over-parameterized, resulting in large uncertainties of their parameters. A first-order approximation to the Monod model also effectively described the experimental results, but the rate coefficients exhibited far less uncertainty. The more precise rate coefficients of the first-order model provided a better means than the Monod parameters, to quantitatively compare the reduction rates between metals, electron donors, and DMRB species.
The potential of intelligent vehicle highway systems for enhanced traveler security

The author addresses some of the possible security functions that could be applied to transit systems by utilizing the availability of automatic vehicle location systems, broadband digital communication systems, and other IVHS (intelligent vehicle highway systems) functions. Emphasis is placed on the opportunities for security enhancements under the IVHS component for transit, called Advanced Public Transportation Systems (APTS). Attention is given to such security measures as covert open mike, slow-scan TV, electronic fare collection and intermodal facilities. >
The CH3C(O)O2 Radical. Its UV Spectrum, Self-Reaction Kinetics, and Reaction with CH3O2

The reactions of CH3C(O)O2 with itself and with CH3O2 are investigated using flash photolysis combined with time-resolved UV spectroscopy and transient infrared absorption. The UV spectrum of CH3C(O)O2 exhibits two bands; the stronger short wavelength component has a maximum cross section of 6.5 × 10-18 cm2 at 206 nm and the weaker one a cross section of 2.9 × 10-18 cm2 at 250 nm. These bands are used to monitor the disappearance of CH3C(O)O2 and the secondary formation of CH3O2, yielding a self-reaction rate constant of × 10-12 e(504±114)/T cm3 s-1 and a cross reaction rate constant of × 10-13 e(726±75)/T cm3 s-1. Transient IR monitoring of the formation of CH2O reveals CH3C(O)O2 + CH3O2 → CH2O + CH3COOH + O2 to be the dominant channel for the cross reaction over the entire 209−358 K temperature range. This contrasts with previous studies that indicate a steep temperature dependence for the branching ratio, with a channel leading to CH3C(O)O + CH3O + O2 dominant at high temperatures.
Maximal unidirectional perturbation bounds for stability of polynomials and matrices

Abstract Given a stable polynomial or matrix, we consider a class of unidirectional perturbations. In this note, we provide a closed form for the maximal perturbation bounds under which stability is preserved. The results are then used to derive a closed form for the maximal stability box around the coefficients of a nominally stable polynomial.
Abstract 940: Inhibition of androgen receptor activity in refractory prostate cancer cells by the novel Millennium-Takeda compound T-1759243

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Purpose. Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be a leading cause of cancer death in males worldwide. In the prostate, androgens play a crucial role in both normal and cancerous growth by acting through the androgen receptor (AR), a member of the nuclear receptor super-family; hence, the AR has become a target of therapeutic intervention. The standard treatment for advanced PCa is androgen ablation therapy, initially leading to tumor regression through inhibition of AR activity. However, the success of androgen ablation therapy is often terminated by the emergence of castration- recurrent PCa (CRPC), for which there is still no cure. CRPC remains dependent on a functional AR-axis for proliferation and drugs targeting this network are continually being developed. We have examined the effects of Millennium-Takeda investigational compound T-1759243 on both androgen-responsive and androgen-refractory PCa cells in order to assess its therapeutic potential. Methods. We used PCa cell lines LNCaP, LNCaP-C42 and 22RV1 and assessed effects on cell viability and proliferation using MTS and BrdU assays. AR activity was measured using PSA-luciferase reporter constructs and protein levels by western blot. Microarray analysis with the Illumina HT-12 platform was used to identify genes affected by treatment with T-1759243, followed by real-time PCR confirmation. Pathway analysis was performed using MetaCoreTM software. Results. Our studies have revealed that T-1759243 reduces viability in all cell lines examined, regardless of androgen responsiveness. Treatment resulted in decreased proliferation in androgen-responsive cells and increased apoptosis in refractory cells. AR activity, as measured by PSA-luciferase assay, was greatly decreased in all cell lines by 10uM T-1759243 and T-1759243 abrogated the ability of synthetic androgen R1881 to increase AR activity by inhibiting nuclear translocation of the AR in refractory cells. Pathway analysis revealed changes in genes involved in cell-cycle, cell adhesion and cytoskeletal remodeling in addition to genes in androgen target pathways. Conclusions. T-1759243 is a novel AR antagonist that inhibits AR activity in both androgen-dependent and androgen-refractory prostate cancer cells. Additionally, it inhibits the ability of androgen to promote nuclear translocation of the AR and thus stimulate AR activity in castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells. Pathways affected by treatment with T-1759243 are cell-specific and dependent on AR status and may reveal novel gene targets in PCa treatment. This work was supported in part by Grant #35 from Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc the Takeda Oncology Company. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 940. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-940
A workable regime for managing maternal inability to produce adequate volumes of breast milk.

This case study presents a primipara whose milk supply did not meet the needs of her baby. After a failed attempt to increase her milk through additional breastfeeding and electric breast pumping, a plan was formulated to combine breastfeeding and supplementing. This plan allowed this mother-baby couple to have a successful breastfeeding experience.
Quantitative Real-Time PCR Assays for Detection of Human Adenoviruses and Identification of Serotypes 40 and 41

A quantitative real-time TaqMan PCR assay for detection of human adenoviruses (HAdV) was developed using broadly reactive consensus primers and a TaqMan probe targeting a conserved region of the hexon gene. The TaqMan assay correctly identified 56 representative adenovirus prototype strains and field isolates from all six adenovirus species (A to F). Based on infectious units, the TaqMan assay was able to detect as few as 0.4 and 0.004 infectious units of adenovirus serotype 2 (AdV2) and AdV41, respectively, with results obtained in less than 90 min. Using genomic equivalents, the broadly reactive TaqMan assay was able to detect 5 copies of AdV40 (which had zero mismatches with the PCR primers and probe), 8 copies of AdV41, and 350 copies of AdV3 (which had the most mismatches [seven] of any adenovirus serotype tested). For specific detection and identification of F species serotypes AdV40 and AdV41, a second real-time PCR assay was developed using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) probes that target the adenovirus fiber gene. The FRET-based assay had a detection limit of 3 to 5 copies of AdV40 and AdV41 standard DNA and was able to distinguish between AdV40 and AdV41 based on melting curve analysis. Both the TaqMan and FRET PCR assays were quantitative over a wide range of virus titers. Application of these assays for detection of adenoviruses and type-specific identification of AdV40 and AdV41 will be useful for identifying these viruses in environmental and clinical samples.
Introduction to “Sexual Scripts: Origins, Influences and Changes”

Cet article introduit la notion de script sexuel, notion issue des recherches de William Simon et John Gagnon au cours des vingt dernieres annees. Le script sexuel est une importante reconceptualisation de la sexualite en tant que processus social supplantant l'imperatif biologique, et permet une approche sociologique des comportements culturels de la sexualite
Increasing Membrane Tension Decreases Miscibility Temperatures; an Experimental Demonstration via Micropipette Aspiration

It has been hypothesized that cytoskeletal tension prevents large-scale phase separation within cell plasma membranes. Here, we microaspirate giant unilamellar vesicles to determine the effect of mechanical stress on the liquid/liquid miscibility temperature of a membrane composed of a ternary lipid mixture. An increase in tension of 0.1 mN/m induces a decrease in miscibility temperature on the order of a few tenths of a degree K, which validates recent theoretical predictions.
Use of simple clinical and laboratory predictors to differentiate influenza from dengue and other febrile illnesses in the emergency room.

Clinical differentiation of influenza from dengue and other febrile illnesses (OFI) is difficult, and available rapid diagnostic tests have limited sensitivity. We conducted a retrospective study to compare clinical and laboratory findings between (i) influenza and dengue and (ii) influenza and OFI. Of 849 enrolled patients, the mean time between illness onset and hospital presentation was 1.7, 3.7, and 3 days for influenza, dengue, and OFI, respectively. Among pediatric patients (≤18 years) (445 influenza, 24 dengue, and 130 OFI), we identified absence of rashes, no leukopenia, and no marked thrombocytopenia (platelet counts 18 years) (81 influenza, 124 dengue, and 45 OFI), no leukopenia and no marked thrombocytopenia distinguished influenza from dengue, while rhinorrhea and malaise differentiated influenza from OFI. A diagnostic algorithm developed to distinguish influenza from dengue using rash, leukopenia, and marked thrombocytopenia showed >90% sensitivity to identify influenza in pediatric patients. This study identified simple clinical and laboratory parameters that can assist clinicians to distinguish influenza from dengue and OFI. These findings may help clinicians diagnose influenza and facilitate appropriate management of affected patients, particularly in resource-poor settings.
Neonatal myocardial oxygen consumption during ventricular fibrillation, hypothermia, and potassium arrest

Background. Many investigators have examined oxygen consumption in adult hearts under conditions that simulate those encountered during cardiac operations and those that approximate basal metabolism. Few studies, however, have addressed this issue in neonatal myocardium. Methods. Hearts from 3- to 9-day-old piglets were studied in a blood-perfused isolated heart preparation in working, empty beating, fibrillating potassium chloride-arrested (at 37°C and 15°C), and hypothermic (15°C) states. Results. Oxygen consumption (expressed in milliliters of O 2 per 100 g of ventricular tissue per minute; mean ± standard deviation) was 6.69 ± 1.91 for working hearts and fell to 3.19 ± 1.08 for empty-beating hearts, 3.72 ± 0.84 for fibrillating hearts, 1.30 ± 0.34 for potassium-arrested hearts at 37°C, 0.37 ± 0.18 for hypothermic (15°C) hearts, and 0.32 ± 0.10 for potassium-arrested hearts at 15°C. All values were significantly different except the two obtained at 15°C. Conclusions. Vented fibrillating hearts used more oxygen than empty beating hearts. The addition of an arresting concentration of KCl did not lower oxygen consumption below that observed with hypothermia alone at 15°C. If potassium-based cardioplegia is incrementally beneficial in neonatal myocardial protection over that afforded by hypothermia alone, its effects cannot be explained by reduction in oxygen demand.
Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy for cluster and small particle research

Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS) are new methods to investigate atomic arrangements and electronic structures of clusters and small particles of atoms. In this paper we review recent developments in this field, in particular the work from our laboratory. We show studies of single adatoms, small clusters and larger particles of platinum and a trimer of aluminum imaged with atomic resolution on highly-orient ed pyrolytic graphite. We find different isomeric structures for clusters of a specific size. Taking the substrate lattice as reference we determine bond lengths and angles for the clusters. We find that adsorbed Pt-particles have a strong influence on the substrate. Periodic charge density modulations on the graphite lattice surrounding the particles are observed. We also discuss recent STS experiments which showed Coulomb blockade in electron tunneling. A silicon-oxide-graphite tip-junction is used where a mesoscopic insulating area containing trap levels for temporary electron storage is responsible for the blockade of single electron transport. Such an ultra-small insulator capacitor shows large voltage steps in current-voltage characteristics and quantization of the tunneling current.
Schizosaccharomyces malidevorans and Sz. octosporus homologues of Sz. pombe rad9, a gene that mediates radioresistance and cell-cycle progression

Abstract The rad9 gene of Schizosaccharomyces pombe is involved in promoting resistance to ionizing radiation and UV light, as well as regulating cell cycle progression after irradiation. We have isolated functional rad9 cognates from two other fission yeasts, Sz. malidevorans and Sz. octosporus , that can restore radioresistance and the radiation-induced G2 delay response to Sz. pombe rad9::ura4 cells. The Sz. pombe and Sz. malidevorans genes are identical at the nucleotide sequence level, which reflects their close evolutionary relationship. Each bears three introns and codes for a 47464-Da protein that contains 426 amino acids (aa). In contrast, Sz. octosporus rad9 contains five introns and codes for a 48210-Da protein that is 432-aa long. The Sz. pombe rad9 product is only 65% identical and 80% similar to the corresponding Sz. octosporus gene product. All of the strains synthesize a rad9 RNA of approx. 1.6 kb. The presence of a rad9-like gene in these yeasts suggests that the cellular process(es) mediated by rad9 , and used by these organisms to increase survival and transiently delay cycling in G2 after irradiation, are conserved. The isolation, analyses and comparison of rad9 genes from different organisms should aid in elucidating the specific biological role of the corresponding protein and especially help pinpoint regions important for function.
Site-Specific and Regiospecific Installation of Methylarginine Analogues into Recombinant Histones and Insights into Effector Protein Binding

Arginine methylation has emerged as a widespread post-translational modification with influence over myriad cellular processes. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying such methylarginine-dependent phenomena remain unclear. To aid in this research, a facile method was developed to install methylarginine analogues on recombinant protein for use in biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies. Through chemical conjugation of novel α,β-unsaturated amidine precursors with proteins, methylarginine mimics can be displayed with control of methylation site, extent, and regiospecificity. Analogue installation into histones using this strategy produced modified proteins that were recognized by antibodies specific to endogenous methylarginine, and these histones retained the capacity to form mononucleosomes. Moreover, a native methylarginine-specific binding domain was shown to interact with methylarginine analogue-modified substrates. This chemical conjugation method for installing methylarginine analogues...
IQGAP1 integrates Ca2+/calmodulin and B-Raf signaling.

Calmodulin regulates diverse Ca2+-dependent cellular processes, including cell cycle progression and cytoskeletal rearrangement. A recently identified calmodulin-binding protein, IQGAP1, interacts with both actin and Cdc42. In this study, evidence is presented that, in the absence of Ca2+, IQGAP1 bound to Cdc42, which maintained Cdc42 in the active GTP-bound state. Addition of Ca2+ both directly abrogated the effect of IQGAP1 on the intrinsic GTPase activity of Cdc42 and, in the presence of calmodulin, dissociated Cdc42 from IQGAP1. In addition, in vitro binding assays revealed that calmodulin associated with both the calponin homology domain and the IQ motifs of IQGAP1. Moreover, F-actin competed with Ca2+/calmodulin for binding to the calponin homology domain, but not the IQ motifs, of IQGAP1. Analysis of cell lysates revealed that calmodulin bound to IQGAP1 in a ternary complex with Cdc42. Increasing the Ca2+ concentration enhanced the interaction between calmodulin and IQGAP1, with a concomitant decrease in the association of IQGAP1 with Cdc42. Our data suggest that IQGAP1 functions as a scaffolding protein, providing a molecular link between Ca2+/calmodulin and Cdc42 signaling.
Dispersal In the Acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus dirus

Abstract In acanthocephalans, dispersal typically occurs when eggs that have been released in the intestines of definitive hosts are expelled with the feces. We examined whether the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus dirus adopts a strategy of dispersal in which eggs are carried into the environment by gravid females. Using a combination of field surveys and lab-based experiments, we showed that the A. dirus female retained eggs as they passed out of the intestines and that these eggs could develop in intermediate hosts (sediment-dwelling isopods). Lab-based behavioral experiments revealed that the bodies of gravid females were attractive to foraging isopods. We propose that a strategy of egg dispersal could occur in A. dirus in which eggs are carried into the environment by females. This strategy could increase transmission success by dispersing eggs closer to the sediment, rather than in the water column, and by directing the feeding behavior of target hosts.
Determinants of condom use in Zambia: a multilevel analysis.

Research on the determinants of condom use in sub-Saharan Africa has focused on the personal characteristics of individuals and more recently on community characteristics such as levels of development and of contraceptive availability. Two additional community characteristics however--the restraining influence exerted by social networks and traditional community institutions (both theorized to decline with population growth) and the degree of interpersonal communication concerning HIV/AIDS--should also be factored into research. This study uses data from the 2003 Zambia Sexual Behaviour Survey and other surveys to conduct multilevel analyses to assess the influence of each of these various characteristics on condom use in Zambia. The results show that condom use increases with interpersonal communication concerning HIV/ AIDS community infrastructural development and access to condoms and decreases with population growth rate and density. The findings suggest that condom-promotion efforts should be attentive to community-level social norms population trends and informal social relationships and interpersonal communication.
Report of an unusually large ventricular aneurysm.

Abstract The case of a patient with an exceedingly large ventricular aneurysm has been described. A review of the literature indicates that this may be one of the largest aneurysms yet reported.
Task independence, safety, and adequacy among nondisabled and osteoarthritis-disabled older women.

Objective. To examine the constructs of task independence, safety, and adequacy. Method. Fifty-seven nondisabled (ND) and 56 osteoarthritis-disabled (OAK) women were observed performing daily tasks. Results. Intercorrelations among the constructs of independence and adequacy were uniformly high, while the relationship of safety to these constructs was moderate and more variable, although stronger in the OAK group. Task performance of the OAK group was consistently less adequate and independent than that of the ND group; however, the groups were generally equivalent in safety. For individual tasks, adequacy best differentiated between the groups. In both groups, those who performed independently also performed safely, but fewer independent OAK participants also performed totally adequately. Conclusion. The majority of older women who perform tasks independently also perform them safely and adequately; for a clinically significant minority, independence is not always synonymous with safe and adequate performance. Patients may be placed at risk if independence is the only construct used to determine disability.
Stereoselective Synthesis of β-Lactams with Polyaromatic Imines: Entry to New and Novel Anticancer Agents†

We present herein stereoselective synthesis of novel β-lactams using polyaromatic imines following the Staudinger reaction. Consistent mechanisms for these results have been advanced. As a measure of cytotoxicity, some of these compounds have been assayed against nine human cancer cell lines. Structure−activity study has revealed that 1-N-chrysenyl and 1-N-phenanthrenyl 3-acetoxy-4-aryl-2-azetidinones have potent anticancer activity. The presence of the acetoxy group at C3 of the β-lactams has proven to be obligatory for their anticancer activity.
Another take on the matrix: Interactionism

This response to C.R. Snyder and T.R. Elliott's article, “Twenty-First Century Graduate Education in Clinical Psychology: A Four Level Matrix Model” (this issue), focuses on the importance of three types of interactions: between mind and body, humans and machines, and individuals and groups. It is proposed that the clinical psychology training programs of the future will need to ensure that their students are well versed in the relevance of these interactions for understanding human behavior and developing effective treatments. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Simulation of 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of indoles

Linear models are developed to predict the 13C NMR chemical shifts of carbons in indole moieties based on a critical review. These models fill a gap in the spectral simulation database which is used to simulate the 13C NMR spectra of a wide range of organic compounds, illustrating that this is a viable method for the expansion of the database. The models are based on calculated numerical parameters (descriptors) which encode the topological and topological-electronic environments of the eight indole carbons. The 56 indoles in the reference set have a mean r.m.s. error of 0.93 ppm and the 42 indoles in the prediction set have an error of 2.04 ppm. The spectral error for N-substituted indoles is higher than that of N-unsubstituted indoles.
Viscous Sintering of a Bimodal Pore‐Size Distribution

The cylinder model, used previously to analyze the viscous sintering of flame hydrolysis preforms and gels, is shown to be consistent with other models of early- and late-stage sintering. The model is then applied to a bimodal pore-size distribution in which the different shrinkage rates of small and large pores produce local stresses. The effect of these stresses on the sintering rate is determined and shown to be substantial. Initially, the small pores accelerate the densification of the large pores; later, shrinkage of the isolated large pores is resisted by the sintered remains of the small pores. Consequently, the time to reach full density is nearly independent of the initial volume fraction of small pores.
Four-channel parallel 3.125 Gbit/s/ch/s fibre optic receiver/transmitter chip signal detection circuit

A signal detect/loss of signal (SD/LOS) circuit for a four-channel parallel TX/RX chip was designed and fabricated in a 0.35 /spl mu/m SiGe HBT process. The measurement was performed in power supply range (3.0-3.6 V) and case temperatures (0-100/spl deg/C) under the influence of cross-talk from the other RX channels and transmitter channels. The result shows a typical assert level of -20.5 dBm and a de-assert level of -21.5 dBm with a typical hysteresis of 1 dB.
Fluorescence yields from photodissociative excitation of chloromethanes by vacuum ultraviolet radiation

The photoabsorption and fluorescence cross sections of chloromethanes were measured in the 105-220 nm region using synchrotron radiation as a light source. The fluorescence threshold for CCl4 is at 152 nm with a maximum yield of 3 percent at 113 nm. The fluorescence results from the CCl2(A-X) system. For CHCl3, the fluorescence threshold is at 155 nm with a maximum yield of 0.6 percent at 110 nm. For CH2Cl2, the threshold is at 137 nm with a maximum yield of 0.35 percent at 107 nm. The fluorescence yield of CH3Cl is very small with an upper limit of 0.02 percent. The photodissociation processes are discussed in accord with the fluorescence data observed. Vibrational structures in CHCl3 and CH3Cl2 are observed and classified into progressions.
Identification of genetic risk associated with prostate cancer using ancestry informative markers.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignancy and a leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States with African-American (AA) men having the highest incidence and mortality rates. Given recent results from admixture mapping and genome-wide association studies for PCa in AA men, it is clear that many risk alleles are enriched in men with West African genetic ancestry. A total of 77 ancestry informative markers (AIMs) within surrounding candidate gene regions were genotyped and haplotyped using Pyrosequencing in 358 unrelated men enrolled in a PCa genetic association study at the Howard University Hospital between 2000 and 2004. Sequence analysis of promoter region single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to evaluate disruption of transcription factor-binding sites was conducted using in silico methods. Eight AIMs were significantly associated with PCa risk after adjusting for age and West African ancestry. SNP rs1993973 (intervening sequences) had the strongest association with PCa using the log-additive genetic model (P=0.002). SNPs rs1561131 (genotypic, P=0.007), rs1963562 (dominant, P=0.01) and rs615382 (recessive, P=0.009) remained highly significant after adjusting for both age and ancestry. We also tested the independent effect of each significantly associated SNP and rs1561131 (P=0.04) and rs1963562 (P=0.04) remained significantly associated with PCa development. After multiple comparisons testing using the false discovery rate, rs1993973 remained significant. Analysis of the rs156113–, rs1963562–rs615382l and rs1993973–rs585224 haplotypes revealed that the least frequently found haplotypes in this population were significantly associated with a decreased risk of PCa (P=0.032 and 0.0017, respectively). The approach for SNP selection utilized herein showed that AIMs may not only leverage increased linkage disequilibrium in populations to identify risk and protective alleles, but may also be informative in dissecting the biology of PCa and other health disparities.
Epigenomic replication: linking epigenetics to DNA replication.

The information contained within the linear sequence of bases (the genome) must be faithfully replicated in each cell cycle, with a balance of constancy and variation taking place over the course of evolution. Recently, it has become clear that additional information important for genetic regulation is contained within the chromatin proteins associated with DNA (the epigenome). Epigenetic information also must be faithfully duplicated in each cell cycle, with a balance of constancy and variation taking place during the course of development to achieve differentiation while maintaining identity within cell lineages. Both the genome and the epigenome are synthesized at the replication fork, so the events occurring during S-phase provide a critical window of opportunity for eliciting change or maintaining existing genetic states. Cells discriminate between different states of chromatin through the activities of proteins that selectively modify the structure of chromatin. Several recent studies report the localization of certain chromatin modifying proteins to replication forks at specific times during S-phase. Since transcriptionally active and inactive chromosome domains generally replicate at different times during S-phase, this spatiotemporal regulation of chromatin assembly proteins may be an integral part of epigenetic inheritance. BioEssays 25:647–656, 2003. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Urodasys poculostylis sp. nov., a new stylet-bearing gastrotrich (Macrodasyida) from Capron Shoal, Florida

AbstractA new species of marine Gastrotricha, Urodasys poculostylis sp. nov. (Macrodasyida: Macrodasyidae), is described from the sublittoral sediments of Capron Shoal, Florida. The new species is a simultaneous hermaphrodite with a single left testis, a stylet bulb and a frontal organ. The stylet bulb bears a cup-shaped sclerotic stylet up to 20 µm long. Several specimens possessed a large spermatophore within the frontal organ. Urodasys poculostylis sp. nov. can be further distinguished by the presence of three pairs of anterior adhesive tubes distributed in two rows, 14–17 pairs of lateral adhesive tubes with staggered insertions, 5–7 pairs of ventrolateral adhesive tubes, 12–15 pairs of dorsolateral adhesive tubes and two dorsal adhesive tubes.
NIM Fast Logic Modules Utilizing MECL III Integrated Circuits

The design and construction of fast logic modules for nuclear instrumentation has always been a costly and time consuming effort. The demands for and on modules have increased considerably; greater quantities with improved performance capabilities are needed. Improved performance and reduced module cost are obtained by using commercially available emitter-coupled logic and a minimal amount of interface circuitry to form compatible functional circuits which can then be combined to create the various modules necessary for nuclear instrumentation. This paper describes the operation of several functional circuits that have been designed at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory to effectively utilize the Motorola MECL III line of integrated logic circuits in NIM Standard fast logic modules. The modules process pulses with rise and fall times of approximately 1 ns and can operate at pulse repetition rates in excess of 300 MHz, yet their cost is less than half that of commercially available 200 MHz units.
INSTITUTIONAL AND POSTRELEASE BEHAVIOR OF FURMAN-COMMUTED INMATES IN TEXAS*

In 1972, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Furman v. Georgia that the death penalty as administered constituted cruel and unusual punishment. This ruling also invalidated the death sentences of over 600 inmates in the United States, who subsequently had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment. This article examines the institutional and postrelease behavior of the 47 Furman inmates in Texas from 1973 to 1986. Prior to the release of these inmates into the general prisoner population, prison officials and clinicians stated that they were dangerous and constituted a substantial threat to other inmates and to the security staff. The institutional and release behavior of the Furman inmates is compared with that of a cohort of like violent offenders. The Furman inmates committed few serious rule violations. They did not kill other inmates or staff. A minority of inmates in both groups committed the majority of prison rule violations. Of the 31 Furman inmates released on parole, 1 committed a new homicide. No cohort inmate killed again. The conclusion is that the execution of these 47 inmates would not have greatly protected society.
Psychology of the Scientist: LXXVIII. Relevance of a Scientist's Ideology in Communal Recognition of Scientific Merit

Szirnrnary.-A scientist's work product can usuaUy be rationally appraised apart from ideology. "Bad science" includes formal and material fallacies and poor data; nonoprimal judgmenr calls and theorizing refuted by larer knowledge do not count. In bestowing encomiums, a sciendic organizarion with multiple goals may considerwith caution and wide tolerance-social impact where ideological applications abhorrent to most members or unethical conduct qzia scientist become relevant. Members valuing only scientific merit may eirher effect policy change within the organization or join another. A scientist who extrapolates scienthc rheory to make social policy judg
A Mental Health Research Perspective on Marital Rights and Civil Marriage for Lesbians and Gay Men

The mental health of lesbians, gay men, and their families is central to arguments for marriage equality for same-sex couples. This paper examines three areas of research relevant to the inclusion of same-sex couples in the institution of civil marriage. First, recent studies have documented the negative mental health effects of discrimination encoded in marriage denial. Second, marital exclusion denies lesbians and gay men the psychosocial benefits of marriage as described in the general population. Third, research suggests no fundamental difference in the psychological health and attributes of homosexual compared with heterosexual couples or children of homosexual compared with heterosexual parents, thus raising the question of why lesbians, gay men, and their children should be treated differently by the law. This paper concludes with a discussion of limitations inherent in research as a tool for advancing public policy and reflects on the current importance of using research to link mental health and ...