cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blockade of α-methyltyrosine-induced supersensitivity to apomorphine by chronic administration of L-DOPA

Abstract The locomotor stimulating effect of apomorphine was enhanced in mice maintained for 2 weeks on a diet containing α-methyltyrosine suggesting that chronic blockade of catecholamine synthesis increases the sensitivity of central dopaminergic receptors. Cuncurrent administration of L-DOPA with α-methyl-tyrosine effectively restored the α-methyltyrosine-depleted brain catecholamine stores and prevented the enhancement of the response to apomorphine. These data support the concept that the development of α-methyltyrosine-induced supersensitive dopaminergic receptors in the brain results from a chronic deficiency of dopamine at these receptors.
The surface structure of titanium and its interaction with bromine and chlorine

The surface structure and composition of titanium have been studied by electron diffraction and Auger electron spectroscopy in the temperature range 25 to 850 C. Atomically clean, well-defined Ti surfaces were obtained by a combination of argon ion sputtering and thermal treatment at 700 to 800 C. A series of surface superstructures was observed as the crystal temperature was gradually decreased. The development of the superstructures is best explained as due to surface reconstruction as a result of surface relaxation. The interaction of bromine and chlorine vapors with clean Ti surfaces was investigated in the temperature range 25 to 500 C. Bromine exposure at room temperature gave rise to an amorphous surface layer, which on annealing transformed into an epitaxial TiBr2 structure. Chlorine interaction resulted in the formation of an epitaxial TiCl3 on both cold and hot Ti surfaces. Surface impurities inhibited the chemical interaction process on the Ti surface.
Feasibility investigation of oriented straw cable cement composites

Abstract Straw is the plant structure which is left behind after a grain harvest. A new form of composites which utilizes oriented wheat straw fibers is being developed. Wheat straws were bundled in cables and used as reinforcement in cementititous matrix using low strength matrix. Experiments were conducted to obtain preliminary load displacement characteristics and other related behavior of oriented straw specimens. Both compression and tension tests were performed; a total of 27 compression and eight tension tests were completed on limited available samples. It was observed that the straw fiber reinforcement can increase the load carrying capacity of the low strength cementitious matrix material approximately 200–250% in compression comparing the averages of the testing results. Oriented straw fiber composites can be good candidates in building applications where high strength properties are not required.
Direct measurement of hydrogen bonding in DNA nucleotide bases by atomic force microscopy.

Abstract We have used self-assembled purines and pyrimidines on planar gold surfaces and on gold-coated atomic force microscope (AFM) tips to directly probe intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) and thermal programmed desorption (TPD) measurements of the molecular layers suggested monolayer coverage and a desorption energy of about 25 kcal/mol. Experiments were performed under water, with all four DNA bases immobilized on AFM tips and flat surfaces. Directional hydrogen-bonding interaction between the tip molecules and the surface molecules could be measured only when opposite base-pair coatings were used. The directional interactions were inhibited by excess nucleotide base in solution. Nondirectional van der Waals forces were present in all other cases. Forces as low as two interacting base pairs have been measured. With coated AFM tips, surface chemistry-sensitive recognition atomic force microscopy can be performed.
Library Instruction and Information Literacy–1996

This annotated bibliography lists materials dealing with information literacy including instruction in the use of information resources, research, and computer skills related to retrieving, using, and evaluating information. This review, the twenty‐third to be published in RSR, includes items in English published in 1996.
Accuracy of Microscopic Urine Analysis and Chest Radiography in Patients with Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock

Abstract Background Diagnosis of source of infection in patients with septic shock and severe sepsis needs to be done rapidly and accurately to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Objective The purpose of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of two diagnostic studies used in the emergency department (ED) to guide diagnosis of source of infection in this patient population. Methods This was a retrospective review of ED patients admitted to an intensive care unit with the diagnosis of severe sepsis or septic shock over a 12-month period. We evaluated accuracy of initial microscopic urine analysis testing and chest radiography in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections and pneumonia, respectively. Results Of the 1400 patients admitted to intensive care units, 170 patients met criteria for severe sepsis and septic shock. There were a total of 47 patients diagnosed with urinary tract infection, and their initial microscopic urine analysis with counts > 10 white blood cells were 80% sensitive (95% confidence interval [CI] .66–.90) and 66% specific (95% CI .52–.77) for the positive final urine culture result. There were 85 patients with final diagnosis of pneumonia. The sensitivity and specificity of initial chest radiography were, respectively, 58% (95% CI .46–.68) and 91% (95% CI .81–.95) for the diagnosis of pneumonia. Conclusion In patients with severe sepsis and septic shock, the chest radiograph has low sensitivity of 58%, whereas urine analysis has a low specificity of 66%. Given the importance of appropriate antibiotic selection and optimal but not perfect test characteristics, this population may benefit from broad-spectrum antibiotics, rather than antibiotics tailored toward a particular source of infection.
Neuroinflammation and Cognitive Aging

Cognitive aging describes the changes in mental abilities that occur with increasing age. Although experts disagree on the core underlying processes involved, one factor that links many factors associated with cognitive aging is neuroinflammation. Markers of inflammation are associated directly with deficits in cognitive function and with diseases that are risk factors for cognitive decline. Neuroinflammation is also associated with depression and may account for the complex interaction of depression and cognition in older adults. Interventions that reduce inflammation may improve cognition. Understanding how neuroinflammation affects cognition may provide directions for useful interventions to prevent or treat cognitive decline in older adults.
Impact of the ISO 9000 series standards on industrial marketing

Abstract A major focus of industrial marketing research has been industrial buyer behavior. The adoption of the ISO 9000 Standards may have a significant impact on industrial buyer behavior by removing some of the uncertainty in the selection of products and services. International trade has always been complicated due to differences in culture, language, and distance. Artificial barriers have been created to restrict trade by imposing national product and service standards. The International Standards organization was created by 89 member nations to develop product and service standards that would be acceptable to all member nations. Any product or service which met the ISO 9000 Standards could be distributed in all of the member nations without being subjected to other national requirements. Compliance to the ISO 9000 standards by product and service providers must be demonstrated by obtaining certification of their management and quality assurance practices by an independent audit organization.
Edge gradients evaluation for 2D hybrid finite volume method model

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a two-dimensional depth-integrated hydrodynamic flow model using the Finite Volume Method (FVM) on a hybrid unstructured mesh system with a collocated variable arrangement. A new evaluation method for computing the gradients at the cell edges, derived based on the second-order Taylor series expansion, is proposed to improve the solution due to mesh irregularity and non-uniformity. In this method, no interpolation for variables at cell vertices is necessary. The cross-edge flux is evaluated by using the momentum interpolation. The convergence, robustness and accuracy of this model based on the new evaluation method of edge gradients have been demonstrated by several numerical convergence tests and applications to natural rivers with complex geometries and instream structures.
The Magnetic Susceptibilities of Some Common Gases

The Faraday test body method, which had been developed and used by the author for finding the magnetic susceptibility of N${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, has been applied to the measurement of the magnetic susceptibilities of several common gases at room and at liquid air temperatures. The following values \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{6}$ were obtained for the molecular suceptibilities: $\ensuremath{\chi}({\mathrm{H}}_{2})=\ensuremath{-}4.0051$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{He})=\ensuremath{-}1.906$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{Ne})=\ensuremath{-}7.651$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{A})=\ensuremath{-}19.23$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{O}}_{2})=\ensuremath{-}20.88$, $\ensuremath{\chi}({\mathrm{N}}_{2})=\ensuremath{-}11.938$ at room temperatures, and $\ensuremath{\chi}({\mathrm{H}}_{2})=\ensuremath{-}3.98$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{He})=\ensuremath{-}1.91$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{Ne})=\ensuremath{-}7.64$, $\ensuremath{\chi}(\mathrm{A})=\ensuremath{-}19.8$, $\ensuremath{\chi}({\mathrm{O}}_{2})=11830$ at liquid air temperatures. These values are based on the provisional value of $\ensuremath{\chi}({\mathrm{O}}_{2})=3335\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ at 20\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. The results show that the diamagnetic susceptibilities do not vary, within the experimental error, in going from room to liquid air temperatures. This is contrary to the 40 percent change observed for hydrogen by Bitter. The susceptibility of oxygen was found to follow Curie's law to within 2 percent.
Liver biopsy immunotyping to characterize lymphoid malignancies.

To determine the feasibility of liver biopsy immunotyping to characterize hepatic lymphoid malignancies, we employed a panel of monoclonal antibodies on snap-frozen hepatic tissue from 18 patients. Six patients proved to have a histologic diagnosis of lymphoid malignancy. By using free avidin and biotin-blocking reagents to block endogenous biotin, followed by standard immunochemistry, immunotyping was successful in all six cases. Serial section typing allowed delineation of complex B cell phenotypes. Furthermore, architecture was preserved allowing discernment of disease patterns (e.g., sinusoidal, hairy cell leukemia vs. portal, follicular small-cleaved cell lymphoma. Unexpectedly, we found striking expression of common ALL antigen in normal bile canaliculi, which may prove of diagnostic or therapeutic relevance. This study establishes the utility of immunohistochemical techniques applied to hepatic biopsies as a valuable adjunct to histologic diagnosis as well as a tool in revealing the immunobiology of the liver.
Two classes of metabolites from Theonella swinhoei are localized in distinct populations of bacterial symbionts.

The marine spongeTheonella swinhoei (lithistid Family Theonellidae, Order Astrophorida) has yielded many important, bioactive natural products, most of which share structural features with bacterial natural products. The presence of microbial symbionts inT. swinhoei has been reported, and it was originally suggested that the cytotoxic macrolide swinholide A and many of the bioactive cyclic peptides fromT. swinhoei were all produced by symbiotic cyanobacteria. By transmission electron microscopy, we found four distinct cell populations to be consistently present inT. swinhoei: eukaryotic sponge cells, unicellular heterotrophic bacteria, unicellular cyanobacteria and filamentous heterotrophic bacteria. Purification and chemical analyses of each cell type showed the macrolide swinholide A to be limited to the mixed population of unicellular heterotrophic bacteria, and an anti-fungal cyclic peptide occurred only in the filamentous heterotrophic bacteria. Contrary to prior speculation, no major metabolites were located in the cyanobacteria or sponge cells.
A Comparison of the Interactive Systems Framework (ISF) for Dissemination and Implementation and the CDC Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention's Research-to-Practice Model for Behavioral Interventions

Translating evidence-based HIV/STD prevention interventions and research findings into applicable HIV prevention practice has become an important challenge for the fields of community psychology and public health due to evidence-based interventions and evidence-based practice being given higher priority and endorsement by federal, state, and local health department funders. The Interactive Systems Framework (ISF) for Dissemination and Implementation and the Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (DHAP) Research-to-Practice model both address this challenge. The DHAP model and the ISF are each presented with a brief history and an introduction of their features from synthesis of research findings through translation into intervention materials to implementation by prevention providers. This paper describes why the ISF and the DHAP model were developed and the similarities and differences between them. Specific examples of the use of the models to translate research to practice and the subsequent implications for support of each model are provided. The paper concludes that the ISF and the DHAP model are truly complementary with some unique differences, while both contribute substantially to addressing the gap between identifying effective programs and ensuring their widespread adoption in the field.
Ventral paraclinoid carotid aneurysms.

✓ A series of 15 patients with 17 ventral paraclinoid carotid artery aneurysms is presented. With this type of aneurysm the neck is at or just distal to the level of the ophthalmic artery and proximal to the posterior communicating artery on the ventral surface of the carotid artery. There is a high incidence of female patients and multiple aneurysms. At surgery, the aneurysms are hidden by the anterior clinoid process and often have an intracavernous component. The neck of the aneurysm is usually intradural and can be clipped.
The NBS Linac Master Control and Personnel Protection System

The operation of the NBS linear accelerator and its beam handling equipment has been integrated with personnel and equipment protection safeguards and with the occupancy requirements of the linac complex. A mode switch is used to select beam direction and experimental area, and to program the requirements for personnel protection interlocks, beam handling system conditions, building mechanical services, experimental area services, and linac operation. The system includes visual and audible devices to indicate degree of readiness, hazards, faults, interlock information, zone of operation and emergency situations. A forced inspection of potentially dangerous zones, programmed cued taped warning announcements, key interlocks, and flexibility are built-in features. It offers the capability of providing maximum protection to personnel against environmental radiation hazards, and allows utilization of a maximum of laboratory space for varied beam conditions.
Mn(II) Oxidation by Batch Cultures of Pseudomonas putida Strain EC112

AbstractManganese(II) oxidation by a new bacterium isolate, Pseudomonas putida strain EC112, was studied in batch reactors over a range of Mn(II) concentrations (1–26 mg/L) in a chemically defined liquid medium (at pH 6.5 and 30°C). Bacterial Mn(II) oxidation initiated after the exponential growth phase and carbon source consumption. The best fit kinetic oxidation parameters of half-saturation coefficient Ks=1.086±0.029 mg/L and maximum specific substrate utilization rate constant k=0.180±0.003 mg Mn(II)/(mg dry cell mass·h) were obtained using Monod-type kinetics and fitted with the Levenberg-Marquardt nonlinear least-squared algorithm. Additional experiments assessed the potential of Mn(II) oxidation by strain EC112 in the presence of the oxidation products of humic acid (HA) and manganese dioxide (MnO2). Results show enhanced biological Mn oxidation and growth. This suggests MnO2 oxidizes biologically refractory organic matter to substrates that support microorganism growth.
Influence of breakup and reformation of micelles on surfactant diffusion in pure and mixed micellar systems

Abstract Pulsed field gradient (PFG) NMR technique was used to study diffusion of surfactant ions in the following two micellar systems: (i) aqueous solution of an anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and (ii) aqueous solution of a mixture of SDS and a small amount of the cationic surfactant N-dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (C12TAB). PFG NMR measurements provided separate sets of data on diffusion of SDS and C12TAB surfactant ions for a broad range of diffusion times. For each type of surfactants at least two components with different effective diffusivities were observed at sufficiently small diffusion times. The faster component was assigned to the surfactants that experience breakup or reformation of micelles during the diffusion time of the PFG NMR measurement, while the slower component was assigned to the surfactants that did not participate in such events during the diffusion time. The observed changes of the fractions and diffusivities of these components with increasing diffusion time were found to be in a qualitative agreement with such assignment. Fundamental understanding of surfactant diffusion in micellar system is important due to an increasing use of such systems for synthesis of porous materials where micelles are used as templates as well as for many other applications.
Analysis of affinity maps of membrane proteins on individual human embryonic stem cells.

The heterogeneity found in many cell types has greatly inspired research in single-cell gene and protein profiling for discovering the origin of heterogeneity and its role in cell fate decisions. Among the existing techniques to probe heterogeneity, atomic force microscopy (AFM) utilizes an antibody/ligand-modified tip to explore the distribution of a target membrane protein on individual cells in their native environment. In this paper, we establish a practical model to analyze the data systematically, and attempt the quantification of membrane protein abundance on single cells by taking account issues, such as the level of nonspecific interaction, the probe resolution, and the reproducibility of detecting protein distribution. We demonstrated the application in examining the heterogeneous distribution and the local protein abundance of TRA-1-81 antigen on human embryonic stem (hES) cells at the subcellular level. Heterogeneity in TRA-1-81 expression was also detected at the single cell level, suggesting...
Regulation of Directionality in Bacteriophage λ Site-specific Recombination: Structure of the Xis Protein

Abstract Upon induction of a bacteriophage λ lysogen, a site-specific recombination reaction excises the phage genome from the chromosome of its bacterial host. A critical regulator of this process is the phage-encoded excisionase (Xis) protein, which functions both as a DNA architectural factor and by cooperatively recruiting integrase to an adjacent binding site specifically required for excision. Here we present the three-dimensional structure of Xis and the results of a structure-based mutagenesis study to define the molecular basis of its function. Xis adopts an unusual “winged”-helix motif that is modeled to interact with the major- and minor-grooves of its binding site through a single α-helix and loop structure (“wing”), respectively. The C-terminal tail of Xis, which is required for cooperative binding with integrase, is unstructured in the absence of DNA. We propose that asymmetric bending of DNA by Xis positions its unstructured C-terminal tail for direct contacts with the N-terminal DNA-binding domain of integrase and that an ensuing disordered to ordered transition of the tail may act to stabilize the formation of the tripartite integrase–Xis–DNA complex required for phage excision.
The Osmolyte TMAO Stabilizes Native RNA Tertiary Structures in the Absence of Mg2+: Evidence for a Large Barrier to Folding from Phosphate Dehydration

Abstract The stabilization of RNA tertiary structures by ions is well known, but the neutral osmolyte trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) can also effectively stabilize RNA tertiary structure. To begin to understand the physical basis for the effects of TMAO on RNA, we have quantitated the TMAO-induced stabilization of five RNAs with known structures. So-called m values, the increment in unfolding free energy per molal of osmolyte at constant KCl activity, are ∼ 0 for a hairpin secondary structure and between 0.70 and 1.85 kcal mol− 1 m− 1 for four RNA tertiary structures (30–86 nt). Further analysis of two RNAs by small-angle X-ray scattering and hydroxyl radical probing shows that TMAO reduces the radius of gyration of the unfolded ensemble to the same endpoint as seen in titration with Mg2+ and that the structures stabilized by TMAO and Mg2+ are indistinguishable. Remarkably, TMAO induces the native conformation of a Mg2+ ion chelation site formed in part by a buried phosphate, even though Mg2+ is absent. TMAO interacts weakly, if at all, with KCl, ruling out the possibility that TMAO stabilizes RNA indirectly by increasing salt activity. TMAO is, however, strongly excluded from the vicinity of dimethylphosphate (unfavorable interaction free energy, + 211 cal mol− 1 m− 1 for the potassium salt), an ion that mimics the RNA backbone phosphate. We suggest that formation of RNA tertiary structure is accompanied by substantial phosphate dehydration (loss of 66–173 water molecules in the RNA structures studied) and that TMAO works principally by reducing the energetic penalty associated with this dehydration. The strong parallels we find between the effects of TMAO and Mg2+ suggest that RNA sequence is more important than specific ion interactions in specifying the native structure.
Think outside: Advancing risk and protective factor research beyond the intimate-partner-violence box

Objectives: Thinking outside the metaphorical box of extant research on any topic, including intimate partner violence (IPV), has the potential to move a field forward exponentially. Therefore, this commentary aims to stimulate thinking about IPV research specifically related to women's IPV victimization in 2 ways: first, by highlighting selected foci of existing research that may limit the field, and second, by proposing greater foci on topics and approaches less explored that hold promise to generate knowledge with strong implications to improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities, including: studies of protective factors, which may be modifiable with intervention; psychological IPV and an understanding of the co-occurrence of IPV types; multidisciplinary collaborative research that includes community partners; and constructs yet to be measured/explored. Conclusions: Moving toward a comprehensive approach to research that includes examination of both risk and protective factors--particularly those that are modifiable with intervention--will enable us to identify critical factors and begin developing better interventions for improving the lives of so many impacted by IPV. To accomplish the aforementioned, some of us may need to go outside of our comfort zones, and in many cases outside of our disciplines, to conduct research that has the greatest impact. As a field, we are up for the challenge given the tremendous benefits to be gained.
Pituitary function in isolated gonadotrophin deficiency.

Hypothalamic-pituitary function was assessed in 24 individuals with isolated gonadotrophin deficiency (IGD). Thirteen had normal olfaction (Group I) while 11 (Group II) had anosmia (Kallmann's syndrome). In response to a 10 micrograms intravenous (i.v.) bolus of GnRH, the minimal dose required to evoke a consistent gonadotrophin response in normal subjects, the patients responded with significant LH and FSH increases over baseline (P less than 0.01). In Group II patients, large doses (150 micrograms) of GnRH, which elicit maximal release of gonadotrophin in normal subjects did not increase gonadotrophin release beyond that produced by a 10 micrograms bolus. In response to two 10 micrograms GnRH doses, at times 0 and 120 min, the IGD patients responded with similar LH increases to both boluses (both P less than 0.01 compared to baseline). The maximal PRL responses to arginine infusion and to TRH in the male patients were similar to those of normal males. However, in the IGD females, the PRL response to TRH was less than in normal females. The TSH responses to TRH in IGD males and females were similar to each other and similar to normal. The IGD male GH response to arginine infusion was comparable to that in normal males. We conclude that (1) IGD patients appear to retain minimal endogenous GnRH secretion so that the IGD pituitary responds to a minimal dose of GnRH without priming; (2) IGD is a heterogeneous syndrome in which affected individuals with and without normal olfaction represent parts of the spectrum of the same disease; and (3) except for the PRL response in females, the PRL, TSH and GH responses demonstrate that the IGD pituitaries are largely intact.
Influence of a physiological infusion of prostaglandin F2α into postpartum cows with partially suppressed endogenous production of prostaglandins. 1. Uterine and ovarian morphological responses

Abstract On day of parturition (day 0), Brown Swiss cows were assigned to either a control untreated group (n=6) or one of two groups (n = 6/group) in which cows were treated twice daily from days 0 to 6 postpartum with Flunixin Meglumine (FM; 1 g/i.m. injection), a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor. Cows treated with FM received a continuous infusion of either 0.9% saline (FM + saline; days 1 to 10: 46.5 ml/day) or prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) Tham salt (FM + PGF2α; days 1 to 3 and 7 to 10: 33.8 mg/day; days 4 to 6: 67.7 mg/day) into the descending aorta via a catheter inserted into the costoabdominal artery. Rectal palpation was thrice weekly from days 5 to 60 postpartum to assess utero-ovarian morphological changes. Profile of 15-keto-13, -14-dihydro-PGF2α (PGFM) concentrations in peripheral plasma collected between days 1 and 11 was lower (p 0.1) among groups. Compared to control cows, ovarian activity of both ovaries was reduced (p
Seckel's Syndrome with Pseudopolycoria

A case of Seckel's bird headed dwarfism is described in which ultrasonography was performed. Short axial lengths of the globes were measured as well as uniocular flattening of the corneal curvature. Iris holes with pseudopolycoria were also noted. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report on a case in which there is a combination of Seckel's syndrome with pseudopolycoria and in which ultrasonography was performed.
Dynamics and aggregation of the peptide ion channel alamethicin. Measurements using spin-labeled peptides

Two spin-labeled derivatives of the ion conductive peptide alamethicin were synthesized and used to examine its binding and state of aggregation. One derivative was spin labeled at the C-terminus and the other, a leucine analogue, was spin labeled at the N-terminus. In methanol, both the C and N terminal labeled peptides were monomeric. In aqueous solution, the C-terminal derivative was monomeric at low concentrations, but aggregated at higher concentrations with a critical concentration of 23 microM. In the membrane, the C-terminal label was localized to the membrane-aqueous interface using 13C-NMR, and could assume more than one orientation. The membrane binding of the C-terminal derivative was examined using EPR, and it exhibited a cooperativity seen previously for native alamethicin. However, this cooperativity was not the result of an aggregation of the peptide in the membrane. When the spectra of either the C or N-terminal labeled peptide were examined over a wide range of membrane lipid to peptide ratios, no evidence for aggregation could be found and the peptides remained monomeric under all conditions examined. Because electrical measurements on this peptide provide strong evidence for an ion-conductive aggregate, the ion-conductive form of alamethicin likely represents a minor fraction of the total membrane bound peptide.
Improved synthesis of n-octyl-beta-D-glucoside: a nonionic detergent of considerable potential in membrane biochemistry.

An improved synthesis for the nonionic detergent n-octyl-β-D-glucoside (detergent 2) is described. The key modification over earlier methods is the utilization of n-octyl alcohol as the limiting reagent in the condensation between bromide 1 and n-octyl alcohol. A 60-70% overall yield of 2 is obtained without isolation of the intermediate. The β-configuration at the anomeric carbon atom of 2 was confirmed by 100 mHz NMR spectroscopy.
2′, 3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase in the nervous system. Electrophoretic properties and developmental studies

Abstract The activity of 2′, 3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase in the sciatic nerve of rats was determined during the myelination phase of postnatal development. In contrast to the large increase in activity of this enzyme in myelinating cerebrum and cerebellum, the specific activity of the diesterase in sciatic nerve remains constant. It seems unlikely, therefore, that this diesterase is a component of the myelin sheath in sciatic nerve. Determinations of cyclic nucleotide diesterase activity in demyelinated tissue (plaques) of multiple sclerosis patients showed that the enzyme is nearly completely absent from this tissue. These data confirm and support the view that the diesterase is a component of myelin in the CNS. The diesterase was demonstrated in polyacrylamide gels containing the electrophoretically separated rat CNS myelin proteins by staining for enzymatic activity. The enzyme is tentatively identified as a high molecular weight minor protein component of myelin; it does not correspond in its electrophoretic behavior to either the basic (encephalitogenic) protein or the proteolipid protein of myelin.
INTRAUTERINE TREATMENT WITH ESTRADIOL IMPROVES HEMODYNAMICS AND VASCULAR REMODELING IN AN OVINE MODEL OF PULMONARY HYPERTENSION. † 1567

Decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) may contribute to the high pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) which characterizes persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). In experimental PPHN produced by ductus arteriosus (DA) ligation in fetal lambs, eNOS mRNA, protein, and activity are reduced. Because E2 upregulates eNOS in several experimental settings, we hypothesized that estradiol treatment would attenuate the hemodynamic and histologic changes of pulmonary hypertension (PH), and that this effect may be mediated by upregulation of eNOS. We studied the effects of chronic E2 treatment of late gestation (126-128 d; term=147 d) fetal lambs. Immediately following DA ligation and placement of catheters in the main pulmonary artery (MPA) and aorta, fetal lambs were treated with daily infusion of E2 (10 mcg; n=6) or saline (ctrl; n=5) in the MPA. Eight days after the initial surgery, a left pulmonary artery (LPA) flow transducer was placed and lambs were then delivered and mechanically ventilated with FiO2=1.0. Mean pulmonary artery pressure inutero was not different between groups(73±7 vs. 79±3 mm Hg, day 8; E2 vs. ctrl). At delivery, E2 animals had lower PVR, better oxygenation, and higher LPA flow(table; *=p<0.05, E2 vs. ctrl).
Wireless remote-query environmental monitoring using magnetoelastic sensors

Magnetoelastic sensors, made of amorphous metallic glass ribbons or wires, have been used to measure various environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, viscosity, and chemical concentration including pH, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. The parameter of interest is determined by remote detection of the shift in the resonant frequency of the magnetoelastic sensors, which is dependent upon several factors including stress, pressure, temperature, and magnetic field. This paper describes the operating principles of the magnetoelastic sensors and presents several proven applications, as well as methods for optimizing the sensor performance.
Mapping the growth of fungal hyphae: orthogonal cell wall expansion during tip growth and the role of turgor.

By computer-enhanced videomicroscopy, we mapped the trajectory of external and internal cell surface markers in growing fungal hyphae to determine the pattern of cell wall expansion during apical growth. Carbon particles (India ink) were chosen as external markers for tip expansion of Rhizoctonia solani hyphae. Irregularities in the growing apical walls of R. solani served as internal markers. Marker movement was traced in captured frames from the videotaped sequences. External and internal markers both followed orthogonal trajectories; i.e., they moved perpendicular to the cell surface regardless of their initial position in the hyphal apex. We found no evidence that the tip rotates during elongation. The discovery that the cell wall of a growing hypha expands orthogonally has major repercussions on two fronts: 1) It supports the long-held view that turgor pressure is the main force driving cell wall expansion. 2) It provides crucial information to complete the mathematical derivation of a three-dimensional model of hyphal morphogenesis based on the vesicle supply center concept. In three dimensions, the vesicle gradient generated by the vesicle supply center is insufficient to explain shape; it is also necessary to know the manner in which the existing surface is displaced during wall expansion.
The Bulgarian “Nuclear Referendum” of 2013 and the independence of the Bulgarian media

This article analyses the media coverage of the 2013 Bulgarian “nuclear” referendum. We investigate the balance between Yes and No arguments on the construction of the Belene nuclear power plant, n...
Innate immunity in the etiopathology of autoimmunity.

A recent workshop was convened under the auspices of the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) to examine the relationship of the innate immune system to autoimmune disorders.
PksS from Bacillus subtilis is a cytochrome P450 involved in bacillaene metabolism

As part of the pksX gene cluster of Bacillus subtilis strain 168, pksS has been preliminarily annotated as a cytochrome P450 homolog that hydroxylates the polyketide product of this cluster, which was recently shown to be involved in the biosynthesis of bacillaene and dihydrobacillaene. Here we report that there is a frame-shift error in the reported sequence for pksS, and that we have successfully cloned, overexpressed, and purified the protein encoded by the corrected sequence. By utilizing electronic absorption spectrophotometry, we have observed that the ferrous CO complex of PksS absorbs maximally near 450 nm, which confirms the annotation that this protein is a cytochrome P450. We have also established a cell-free system derived from crude cytosolic B. subtilis protein extracts which provides reductase activity essential to sustaining the putative catalytic cycle of PksS. Using LC-MS analysis we have collected data which suggests that the substrate for PksS is dihydrobacillaene.
Finite element modeling of fixture–workpiece contacts: single contact modeling and experimental verification

Abstract Knowledge of workpiece elastic deformation and reaction forces are essential for machining surface error prediction and stability analysis of the fixture–workpiece system. A finite element (FE) model of the fixture–workpiece system is well-suited for predicting workpiece elastic deformation and reaction forces as it can easily account for all sources of compliance in the system. However, the reaction forces and workpiece elastic deformations predicted by the FE model are known to be very sensitive to the boundary conditions used to model the fixture–workpiece contact interface. In this paper, the effects of different FE boundary conditions on the deformation and reaction force predictions for a single fixture–workpiece contact are analyzed. Specifically, frictional contact elements, and nodal force and displacement boundary conditions applied to spherical–planar and planar–planar locator and clamp contact geometries are considered. The effects of workpiece compliance on the prediction accuracy are also evaluated. Based on this study, specific guidelines for FE modeling of locator–workpiece/clamp–workpiece contacts are developed and verified through experiments.
Phase-density distribution of phase-locked loops in cascade

Based upon methods outlined by the author in 1968, he presents in this correspondence the steady-state probability density function of a phase measurement made by two phase-locked loops (PLLs) in cascade. He treats the special case of two first-order loops. However, he expects to report upon the general theory presently under development in a later paper.
Partitioned Royalty: the Evolution of Hausa Chiefs in Nigeria and Niger

Amongst commentators and scholars of the turn-of-the-century partition of Africa, it has become virtually axiomatic to note the ‘artificial’ nature of the boundaries drawn up by the colonial powers. Cutting, as they often did, through otherwise homogeneous ethnic, religious, linguistic, and even geographic clusters, the European remapping of the continent is criticised, at least implicitly, for its allegedly blind or indifferent disregard for indigenous social and cultural systems prevailing at the time of the conquest.
Lossy-to-lossless block-based compression of hyperspectral volumetric data

An embedded, block-based, wavelet transform coding algorithm of low complexity is proposed. Three-dimensional set partitioned embedded block (3D-SPECK) efficiently encodes, hyperspectral volumetric image data by exploiting the dependencies in all dimensions. Integer wavelet transform is applied to enable lossy and lossless decompression from the same bit stream. We demonstrate that 3D-SPECK, a wavelet domain algorithm, like other time domain algorithms, can preserve spectral profiles well. Airborne visible infrared imaging spectrometer (AVIRIS) imagery is used to test the proposed algorithm. Results show that 3D-SPECK, in addition to being very flexible, retains all the desirable features of compared state-of-the-art algorithms and is highly competitive to 3D-SPIHT and better than JPEG2000 multi-component in compression efficiency.
A computational model of direct interstitial infusion of macromolecules into the spinal cord.

Convection-enhanced interstitial infusion can de- liver macromolecular drugs to large tissue volumes of the cen- tral nervous system. To characterize infusion into the spinal cord, an image-based three-dimensional finite element model of the rat spinal cord was developed. The model incorporated convection and diffusion through white and gray matter, includ- ing anisotropic transport due to alignment of white matter tracts. Spatial and temporal distribution of the marker substance albumin within the interstitial space was determined. Consistent with previous experiments, predicted distribution was highly anisotropic. Infusing into the dorsal column, albumin was pri- marily confined to white matter with limited penetration into adjacent gray matter. Distribution was determined primarily by the ratio of fiber-parallel to fiber-perpendicular hydraulic con- ductivity tensor components ( k wm-z /k wm-x), the ratio of trans- verse white and gray matter hydraulic conductivity (k wm-x /k gm), and tissue porosity. Fits to previous experimental measures of axial and transverse spread, distribution volume, and protein recovery yielded an optimum k wm-z /k wm-x of ap- proximately 20 at 0.1 ml/min. k wm-x /k gm of 100 was sufficient to match experimental transverse distribution data. Best fits to data at 0.1 ml/min were achieved by porosities characteristic of moderate edema ~e.g., 0.26!. Distribution also varied with cath- eter placement with more medial placement resulting in greater distribution volumes. © 2003 Biomedical Engineering Soci- ety. @DOI: 10.1114/1.1558032#
Correspondence re: S. Heckl et al., Intracellular visualization of prostate cancer using magnetic resonance imaging. Cancer Res 2003;63:4766-72.

LetterMy colleagues and I read with great interest the paper on magneticresonance imaging of MYC mRNA in prostate cancer xenografts (1).This approach has great potential for noninvasive diagnosis of onco-gene expression. We wonder whether some supplementary material isavailable concerning the chemical characterization of the startingmaterials and the oxidation products between the cysteine amidegroups of TQVKIWFQNRRMKQKK-Cys-NH
Ecology and life history of an Amazon floodplain cichlid: the discus fish Symphysodon (Perciformes: Cichlidae)

The discus fishes of the genus Symphysodon are popular ornamental cichlids that occur in floodplain lakes and flooded forests of the lowland Amazon Basin. These habitats are characterized by extreme seasonal fluctuations in the availability of food, shelter and dissolved oxygen, and also the densities of predators and parasites. Most aspects of discus biology are influenced by these fluctuating conditions. This paper reports an autoecological study of the western Amazonian discus S. haraldi (until recently classified as S. aequifasciatus). This species feeds predominantly on algal periphyton, fine organic detritus, plant mat ter, and small aquatic invertebrates. At high water it forages alone or in small groups in flooded forests. At low water it forms large aggregations in fallen tree crowns along lake margins. Breeding occurs at the beginning of the flood season, ensuring that the progeny are well grown before the next low water period. Symphysodon haraldi is an iteroparous partial spawner, reaches reproductive maturity within a year, and undertakes parental care of its eggs and larvae. The timing of spawning events, and/ or the rate of brood survival, may be influenced by fluctuations in the flood level, resulting in a non-unimodal distribution of size classes for the subsequent 1+ cohort. Os acaras-disco do genero Symphysodon sao peixes ornamentais comumente encontrados em lagos e florestas alagadas das planicies inundadas da Amazonia. Estes habitats sao caracterizados por uma variacao sazonal extrema na disponibilidade de alimento, abrigo e oxigenio dissolvido, e tambem pela densidade de predadores e parasitas. A maioria dos aspectos da biologia do acara-disco sao influenciados por esta variabilidade de condicoes sazonais. Este artigo apresenta um estudo autoecologico de S. haraldi (ate recentemente classificado como S. aequifasciatus) da Amazonia Ocidental. Os acaras-disco alimentam-se predominantemente de perifiton, detritos orgânico, material vegetal, e invertebratos aquaticos pequenos. Durante a estacao da ‘cheia’ eles forrageiam sozinhos ou em pequenos grupos dentro das florestas alagadas. Porem, na estacao da ‘seca’ eles formam grandes cardumes nas coroas de arvores caidas ao longo das margens de lagos. A reproducao ocorre no inicio do periodo das enchentes, assegurando que a prole esteja bem crescida antes da proxima seca. Os acaras-disco sao iteroparos, executam desova parcial, alcancam a maturidade reprodutiva em um ano, e executam cuidado parental dos ovos e alevinos. O inicio da desova, e a taxa de sobrevivencia da prole podem ser influenciados pelas flutuacoes do nivel da agua, resultando em distribuicoes naounimodais das classes de tamanho do subsequente ‘1+ cohort’.
Role of Guidelines on Length of Therapy in Chorioamnionitis and Neonatal Sepsis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Chorioamnionitis (CAM) is a major risk factor for neonatal sepsis. At our institution, neonates exposed to CAM and intrapartum antibiotics are treated with prolonged antimicrobial therapy if laboratory values are abnormal despite a sterile blood culture. Recently, the Committee on the Fetus and Newborn (COFN) recommended a similar strategy for treating neonates exposed to CAM. Our objective was to determine the frequency of abnormal laboratory parameters in term and late-preterm neonates exposed to CAM and evaluate the implication of recent COFN guidelines. METHODS: This retrospective data analysis included late-preterm and term neonates exposed to CAM. Laboratory parameters, clinical symptoms and the number of infants treated with prolonged antibiotics were determined. RESULTS: A total of 554 infants met the inclusion criteria. Eighty-three infants (14.9%) had an abnormal immature to total neutrophil ratio (>0.2) and 121 infants (22%) had an abnormal C-reactive protein level (>1 mg/dL) at 12 hours of age. A total of 153 infants (27.6%) had an abnormal immature to total neutrophil ratio and/or abnormal C-reactive protein level at 12 hours of age. Only 4 (0.7%) of 554 infants had a positive blood culture result. A total of 134 (24.2%) infants were treated with prolonged antibiotics (112 [20.2%] were treated solely based on abnormal laboratory data). Lumbar puncture was performed in 120 (21.6%) infants. CONCLUSIONS: When managed by using a strategy similar to recent COFN guidelines, a large number of term and late-preterm infants exposed to CAM who had sterile blood culture findings were treated with prolonged antibiotic therapy due to abnormal laboratory findings. They were also subjected to additional invasive procedures and had a longer duration of hospitalization.
SPICE models for flicker noise in n-MOSFETs from subthreshold to strong inversion

The two main sources of low-frequency flicker noise are mobility fluctuations and number fluctuations. Our experiments on NMOS noise measurements were done from subthreshold to saturation region of operation for both long-channel (5 /spl mu/m) and short-channel (as small as 0.6 /spl mu/m) NMOS transistors. The results suggest that for both types that in the saturation region, the flicker noise is due to the surface state effect and the noise equations, NLEV=2 and 3, in SPICE, HSPICE, and PSPICE are most appropriate. For short-channel devices, due to the effects of velocity saturation and the resulting nonlinear transconductance (g/sub m/) variation with gate bias voltage, the input-referred voltage noise increases as the gate-source voltage increases instead of staying constant as it does for long-channel devices. In the subthreshold region, the input-referred voltage noise decreases drastically as the gate-source voltage increases for both long-channel and short-channel NMOS devices. Simulations have been done using PSPICE and HSPICE, with noise level (NLEV)=3 and device model level 3 and BSIM 3.2 and 3.3. The results from PSPICE version 8.0 level 7 (BSIM 3.3) and SPICE level 3 compare favorably with the measured noise phenomena for the short-channel and long-channel NMOS devices, respectively.
Molecular mechanisms mediating proliferation/differentiation interrelationships during progressive development of the osteoblast phenotype

I. Introduction A FUNCTIONAL relationship between cell growth and the initiation and progression of events associated with differentiation has been a fundamental question challenging developmental biologists for more than a century. In the case of bone, as observed with other cells and tissue, the relationship of growth and differentiation must be maintained and stringently regulated, both during development and throughout the life of the organism, to support tissue remodeling. For many years, bone was defined anatomically and examined largely in a descriptive manner by ultrastructural analysis and by biochemical and histochemical methods. These studies provided the basis for our understanding of bone tissue organization and orchestration of the progressive recruitment, proliferation, and differentiation of the various cellular components of bone tissue. Now, complemented by an increased knowledge of molecular mechanisms that are associated with and regulate expression of genes encoding phenotypic compone...