cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differential regulation of the pre-C and pregenomic promoters of human hepatitis B virus by members of the nuclear receptor superfamily.

Synthesis of the pre-C and pregenomic RNAs of human hepatitis B virus (HBV) is directed by two overlapping yet separate promoters (X. Yu and J. E. Mertz, J. Virol. 70:8719-8726, 1996). Previously, we reported the identification of a binding site for the nuclear receptor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 (HNF4) spanning the TATA box-like sequence of the pre-C promoter. This HNF4-binding site consists of an imperfect direct repeat of the consensus half-site sequence 5'-AGGTCA-3' separated by one nucleotide; i.e., it is a DR1 hormone response element (HRE). We show here that other receptors, including chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factor 1 (COUP-TF1), human testicular receptor 2 (TR2), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) as heterodimers with retinoid X receptors (RXRs), can also specifically bind this DR1 HRE. Synthesis of the pre-C and pregenomic RNAs was affected both in transfected hepatoma cells and in a cell-free transcription system by the binding of factors to this DR1 HRE. Interestingly, whereas some members of the hormone receptor superfamily differentially repressed synthesis of the pre-C RNA (e.g., HNF4 and TR2) or activated synthesis of the pregenomic RNA (e.g., PPARgamma-RXRalpha), other members (e.g., COUP-TF1) coordinately repressed synthesis of both the pre-C and pregenomic RNAs. Thus, HBV likely regulates its expression and replication in part via this DR1 HRE. These findings indicate that appropriate ligands to nuclear receptors may be useful in the treatment of HBV infection.
BUSTING BLOCKS: APPROPRIATE LEGAL REMEDIES FOR WRONGFUL INCLUSION IN SPAM FILTERS UNDER U.S. LAW

This paper discusses the growth and increasing significance of e-mail in the business and personal environment, and how unsolicited bulk commercial e-mail, also known as spam, has become a significant drain on technical and economic resources. It analyzes the statutory and self-help efforts to combat spam, focusing on block lists and automated spam filters, and how alleged spammers have brought lawsuits in U.S. courts claiming they had been wrongfully included within block lists and filters. Finally, it describes possible claims under U.S. law, then argues for a higher standard of care among block list vendors and the need for recourse to courts when self-help remedies for mistaken block listing fail.
The MOBI-DIK approach to searching in mobile ad hoc network databases

In this chapter, we introduce the mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) database by discussing its definition, historical background and scientific fundamentals. Existing related projects are presented and classified into two main categories, pedestrian and vehicular projects based on their target users. Two main paradigms (i.e., report pulling and report pushing) for answering queries in MANET databases are discussed in details. Then we present the MOBIDIK approach to searching in MANET databases and compare it with alternatives. Finally, the key applications and the future research directions are addressed.
Nucleosomal location of the STE6 TATA box and Mat alpha 2p-mediated repression.

Abstract It has been proposed that yeast MATa cell-specific genes are repressed in MAT alpha cells by the Mat alpha 2p repressor-directed placement of a nucleosome in a position that incorporates the TATA box of the MATa-specific gene close to the nucleosomal pseudodyad. In this study, we address this proposal directly with a series of plasmids designed to place the MATa-specific STE6 TATA box at different locations in a nucleosome and in the internucleosomal linker. These plasmids contain different lengths of synthetic random DNA between the Mat alpha 2p operator and the TATA box of the STE6 promoter, which is located upstream of a lacZ reporter gene in a multicopy plasmid. We show that in MAT alpha cells, a nucleosome is retained in an identical translational frame relative to the Mat alpha 2p operator in all the constructs investigated, irrespective of the sequence of the DNA wrapped onto the histone octamer. This result shows that the nucleosomal organization of the STE6 promoter in MAT alpha cells is not conferred by the sequence of the promoter itself. No expression of the lacZ reporter gene was detectable in MAT alpha cells in any of the constructs, even with the TATA box located in a short internucleosomal linker. These data indicate that repression of MATa-specific genes in MAT alpha cells does not require the precise translational placement of the TATA box close to the nucleosomal pseudodyad; the gene remains repressed when the TATA box is located within the investigated 250-bp region in the organized chromatin domain abutting the Mat alpha 2p operator in MAT alpha cells and may remain repressed with the TATA box located anywhere within this organized repression domain.
Effects of excessive frame loss on scanning tree reconfiguration

The effects of excessive frame loss (presumably due to media speed mismatches and/or heavy congestion) on the frequency of spanning tree reconfiguration are examined. Assuming that the losses of successive bridge protocol data units (BPDUs) are independent, general formulas for the mean time and transient probability of a single node initiating spanning tree reconfiguration (due to loss of successive BPDUs) are derived as a function of its probability of frame loss. The case of n equivalently independent nodes in the network is considered. The mean time to first loss (conditioned and unconditioned on the initial state of the system) given a step increase in utilization to above 1, if the node is modeled as an M/M/1/K system, is determined. Throughout, methods for making the network less susceptible to unnecessary spanning tree reconfiguration are discussed. >
Assessing the nature and mix of offences among serious adolescent offenders

Background Much of the research on specialisation in offending tends to show that offending careers are marked by more versatile than specific criminal activity. One key limitation of this research has been that very few studies have used both official records and self-reports to study the longitudinal mix of offences. Aims This study uses longitudinal data to examine the mixture of offences during mid-adolescence and into early adulthood, a key transitionary period of the life course, using both self-reports and official records. Method Data from 1354 serious adolescent offenders are used to study the mixture of offences over a 7-year period. Results The results point strongly to the conclusion that generality is typical and specialisation is exceptional. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initiation of Staphylococcal Growth in Processed Meat Environments

The probability of staphylococcal growth initiation in laboratory-made cured meats is investigated and compared with growth initiation in broths.
Basal cell carcinoma arising in a nevus sebaceus in a child with facial trichoepitheliomas

Nevus sebaceus (NS) is a congenital skin hamartoma that presents in childhood. Tumors may arise within these lesions over time. Mutations in the PTCH gene have been associated with both NS and some of the developing tumors. Only nine documented cases of basal cell carcinoma arising in nevus sebaceus in childhood are available. We present a case of an 8-year-old male with nevus sebaceus who developed a basal cell carcinoma. Evaluation for constitutional PTCH gene mutation and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) from the BCC within the NS did not reveal an underlying mutation. We further discuss the literature regarding prophylactic excision of NS.
LONG TERM CULTURE OF THYMIC CELLS FROM NEWBORN MOUSE THYMUS FRAGMENTS.

Summary. In vitroCultures of newborn mouse thymic cells were followed for as long as 120 days. Depending on the technique of explantation, two distinct types of cell populations were obtained: whereas in cultures derived from thymic fragments embedded in plasma clot the final result was a pure colony of reticulum cells, in cultures derived from unattached thymus fragments the cell population mainly consisted of lymphocytes, monocytoid cells and plasmacytoid lymphocytes.
Hg Binding on Pd Binary Alloys and Overlays

The vast majority of the mercury released from coal combustion is elemental mercury. Noble metals such as Pd, Au, Ag, and Cu have been proposed to capture elemental mercury. Density functional theory calculations are carried out to investigate mercury interactions with Pd binary alloys and overlays in addition to pure Pd, Au, Ag, and Cu surfaces using a projected augmented wave method with the Perdew-Wang generalized 0 gradient approximation. It has been determined that Pd has the highest mercury binding energy in comparison to other noble metals. In addition, Pd is found to be the primary surface atom responsible for improving the interaction of mercury with the surface atoms in both Pd binary alloys and overlays. Deposition of Pd overlays on Au and Ag enhance the reactivity of the surface by shifting the d-states of surface atoms up in energy. Strong mercury binding causes a significant overlap between the s- and p-states of Pd and the d-state of Mercury.
NFAT5 expression in bone marrow-derived cells enhances atherosclerosis and drives macrophage migration.

Objective: We have previously shown that the transcription factor, nuclear factor of activated T-cells 5 (NFAT5), regulates vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation, but the role of NFAT5 in atherosclerosis is unknown. Our main objective was to determine if NFAT5 expression in bone marrow (BM)-derived cells altered atherosclerotic development and macrophage function. Methods and Results: NFAT5+/-ApoE-/- mice were generated for in vivo atherosclerosis studies. Following high fat diet feeding, en face analysis of the thoracic aorta established that genome-wide NFAT5 haploinsufficiency reduced atherosclerotic lesion formation by 73%. BM transplant studies revealed that transplantation of NFAT5+/-ApoE-/- marrow into NFAT5+/+ApoE-/- mice resulted in a similar 86% reduction in lesion formation. In vitro functional analysis of BM-derived macrophages demonstrated that NFAT5 is required for macrophage migration, which is a key event in the propagation of atherosclerosis. Conclusion: We have identified NFAT5 in BM-derived cells as a positive regulator of atherosclerotic lesion formation and macrophage function in the vasculature.
Ontology-Driven Integration of CAD/CAE Applications: Strategies and Comparisons

In this paper we present a detailed exploration of ontology-driven approaches and strategies for integrating product data between CAD/CAE applications. We structure the ontology model into three layers: General Domain Ontology, Domain Specific Ontology, and Application Specific Ontology. In particular, Application Specific Ontologies are built for PRO/E, CATIA, and a virtual assembly design tool called VADE. This allows the integration processes to be demonstrated for a) two applications in the common domain of product design, and b) two applications in different domains, one in the product design domain and the other in an assembly simulation domain. In addition, these ontology-driven strategies are compared with two other approaches. The first study focuses on the knowledge modeling aspect and compares the ontology approach with a standard modeling language, UML. The second study focuses on data integration and translation aspect and compares the ontology-driven approach with a traditional one. It is concluded that an ontology-driven approach is superior for solving heterogeneous data problems involving multiple applications by managing data on semantic level.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Recovery of uncorrected visual acuity after laser in situ keratomileusis or photorefractive keratectomy for low myopia

Purpose.To compare uncorrected visual acuity and refractive error in patients undergoing photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) between 1 week and 6 months after surgery.Methods.All eyes underwent PRK or LASIK with the VisX StarS2 excimer laser. We retrospectively
Action spectra for C-glucosylflavone accumulation in Hordeum vulgare plumules

Abstract Five-day-old etiolated barley plumules contain the C -glucosylflavones saponarin, lutonarin, and lutonarin 3′-methyl ether. When harvested 24 hr after illumination, increased flavonoid levels were essentially linear with increased energies of monochromatic light at seven wavelengths between 450 and 750 nm. Action spectra for saponarin and for a mixture of lutonarin and its 3′-methyl ether were determined between 380 and 760 nm at 6.6 kerg·cm −2 . The saponarin action spectrum showed distinct peaks at 620 and at 660 nm. These two peaks were similar in their photoreversibility when followed by either 6·6 or 34 kerg·cm −2 of far-red light. Phytochrome is apparently the photoreceptor for the saponarin action spectrum. Lutonarin and its 3′-methyl ether showed peaks at 520 580, 620 and near 660 nm. The 660 nm peak was not photoreversible by 6·6 kerg·cm −1 , but was by 34 kerg·cm −2 , of far-red light. Phytochrome and protochlorophyll are the likely photoreceptors for these 3′-substituted flavonoids.
Ethnic fast foods: The corporate melting pot

(1987). Ethnic fast foods: The corporate melting pot. Food and Foodways: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 1-30.
Cultural Adaptation on the Web: A Study of American Companies' Domestic and Chinese Websites

In the academic literature and the business press, there seems to be a lack of guidance and lack of cross-cultural models to support companies localization strategies on the Web. To address this deficit in literature and to provide marketers and Web designers with insights into website localization, this paper conducted a comparative analysis of the U.S. based international companiesâ€™ domestic websites and their Chinese websites. A framework to measure cultural adaptation on the Web is presented. Forty U.S.-based Fortune 500 companies are surveyed to investigate the cultural adaptation of their Chinese websites. Content analysis of the 80 U.S. domestic and Chinese websites reveals that the web is not a culturally neutral medium, but it is full of cultural markers that give country-specific websites a look and feel unique to the local culture.
Percutaneous Transthoracic Aspiration Needle Biopsy

Abstract An experience based on 1,211 patients has shown aspiration needle biopsy to be a valuable technique for diagnosing bronchogenic carcinoma and other localized intrathoracic lesions that are beyond the reach of the fiberoptic bronchoscope. In 896 patients with malignant intrathoracic neoplasm, the aspirate demonstrated malignant cells in 96%. A false cytological diagnosis of carcinoma occurred in 2 patients, for a true positive rate of 99%. However, the true negative rate was only 87%. In 77% of 31 immunosuppressed patients, the causative agent of a focal infectious process was diagnosed. Pneumothorax was the only notable complication, occurring in 24% of patients, with 14% requiring chest tube drainage. The procedure is relatively simple and rapid, generally causes little patient discomfort, and can be performed in virtually any hospital.
A distance measure for automatic document classification by sequential analysis

Abstract This research has investigated the feasibility of using a distance measure, called the Bayesian distance , for automatic sequential document classification. It has been shown that by observing the variation of this distance measure as keywords are extracted sequentially from a document, the occurrence of noisy keywords may be detected. This property of the distance measure has been utilized to design a sequential classification algorithm which works in two phases. In the first phase keywords extracted from a document are partitioned into two groups—the good keyword group and the noisy keyword group. In the second phase these two groups of keywords are analyzed separately to assign primary and secondary classes to a document. The algorithm has been applied to several data bases of documents and very encouraging results have been obtained.
Synthesis, characterization, and cytocompatibility of elastomeric, biodegradable poly(ester-urethane)ureas based on poly(caprolactone) and putrescine

The engineering of tissue for mechanically demanding applications in the cardiovascular system is likely to require mechanical conditioning of cell-scaffold constructs prior to their implantation. Scaffold properties amenable to such an application include high elasticity and strength coupled with controllable biodegradative and cell-adhesive properties. To fulfill such design criteria, we have synthesized a family of poly(ester-urethane)ureas (PEUUs) from polycaprolactone and 1,4-diisocyanatobutane. Lysine ethyl ester (Lys) or putrescine was used as chain extenders. To encourage cell adhesion, PEUUs were surface modified with radio-frequency glow discharge followed by coupling of Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (RGDS). The synthesized PEUUs were highly flexible, with breaking strains of 660-895% and tensile strengths from 9.2-29 MPa. Incubation in aqueous buffer for 8 weeks resulted in mass loss, from >50% (Lys chain extender) to 10% (putrescine chain extender). Human endothelial cells cultured for 4 days with medium containing the degradation products from PEUUs with either the Lys or putrescine chain extender showed no toxic effects. Cell adhesion was 85% of that measured on tissue-culture polystyrene for unmodified PEUU surfaces (p 160% (p < 0.001) of polystyrene on RGDS-modified PEUUs. These biodegradable PEUUs demonstrate potential for future application as cell scaffolds in cardiovascular tissue-engineering or other soft-tissue applications.
A temporal-spatial theory of consumer behavior

Abstract A theory of household consumption of goods, time and locomotion is proposed in which time allocation theory and urban economic theory are shown to be special cases. The contributions of this temporal-spatial theory in terms of enriching consumer behavior theory and of providing a robust basis for analyzing transportation economics are outlined.
Cornel West, African American Critical Thought, and the Quest for Social Justice

Definissant la justice sociale comme la problematique centrale de la pensee critique afro-americaine, l'A. etudie l'engagement socio-politique de C. West en faveur des plus demunis, qu'ils soient Noirs ou Blancs. Examinant le combat de West contre l'oppression socioeconomique, l'A. rejette cependant la revendication d'un christianisme prophetique et l'adoption d'une critique sociale crypto-marxiste.
Pharmacological effects of intravenous melatonin: comparative studies with thiopental and propofol

Background. Possible utility of high-dose i.v. melatonin as an anaesthetic adjuvant has not been studied. This study compared its effects with thiopental and propofol. Methods. Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to receive bolus or cumulative i.v. doses of melatonin, thiopental or propofol. Righting reflex, hindpaw withdrawal to a noxious stimulus, response to tail clamping and haemodynamic effects were assessed. Results. Melatonin caused a dose-dependent increase in paw withdrawal threshold and the percent of rats displaying loss of the righting reflex. Melatonin was comparable to thiopental and propofol in terms of its rapid onset of hypnosis. The mean ED50 values for loss of righting reflex were 5.4 (sem 1.2), 12.5 (1.1) and 178 (1.1) mg kg–1 for propofol, thiopental and melatonin, respectively. The percent of rats displaying loss of response to tail clamping was greater with propofol than with melatonin (P Conclusion. I.V. melatonin can exert hypnotic effects similar to those observed with thiopental and propofol. Melatonin exhibited significant antinociceptive effects but was less effective in abolishing the response to tail clamping. Br J Anaesth 2003; 90: 504–7
Source-Coupling For Hybrid Focal Planes

32 x 32 and 64 x 64 staring infrared focal plane arrays with epitaxial HgCdTe and InAsSb photovoltaic detectors coupled to surface channel CCD multiplexers have been fabri-cated and characterized. The backside-illuminated detector arrays have bandgaps suitable for operation in either the 3-5 or 8-12 μm region. A source-coupled input circuit with background suppression is utilized. Performance characterization of the multiplexer will be given at cryogenic temperatures. CCD charge transfer efficiency and MOSFET threshold voltages have been measured as functions of temperature. The input circuit 1/f noise will be characterized. The detectivity and noise equivalent temperature of the hybrid focal planes will also be discussed.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Of green monkeys and failed affordances: A case study of a mechanical engineering design course

This article reports on an ethnographic study of a mechanical engineering design class. The findings are based on participant observation of one student design team of three students as they designed, tested and built an engineered solution to a problem over a period of ten weeks. The paper describes the curricular efforts to provide social and material affordances both for learning and doing design, and the failure of students on the observed team to take up those affordances. It offers explanations for failure within a framework of conflicting classroom views and pedagogic issues. It discusses the implications of the observed student behavior for design education in general, and mechanical engineering design, in particular.
Identification and quantification of some elements in the hog roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides suum, and certain tissues of its host.

Abstract Atomic absorption spectrophotometric and fluorometric analyses were utilized for the determination of several elements in the whole bodies of both male and female Ascaris lumbricoides suum and from the muscle and kidney of the swine host. Concentrations of cadmium, calcium, copper, lead, magnesium, manganese, iron, selenium, potassium, and zinc in these tissues are reported. Statistical analysis (Tukey's procedure) of the data indicated no differences in metal concentrations between male and female ascarids. There were three instances in which the metal concentrations were statistically different in worm tissues and both hog tissues.
Thermal Stability of Octadecylsilane Monolayers on Silica: Curvature and Free Volume Effects

The thermal stability and dynamic behavior at elevated temperature (120 °C) of octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on fumed silicas [Aerosil 380(A380), 7 nm primary particle size, and Aerosil OX50 (OX50), 40 nm primary particle size] and nonporous silica beads (106-nm) were investigated using vibrational spectroscopy and calorimetry. In the case of well-ordered SAMs, formed by OTS adsorption on “superhydrated” silica, thermal disordering of the alkyl chains increased with increased surface curvature and thus increased free volume. A melt endotherm was observed only for the high curvature A380 fumed silica. In-situ Raman data at 120 °C supported these results and showed increased conformational disorder and mobility for A380 compared with OX50. The conformational structure of OTS SAMs was found to be largely reversible up to 200 °C, except for “superhydrated” A380. This suggests that, for close-packed SAMs, silanol condensation only occurs when the resulting Si−O−Si bond does no...
Titrimetric determination of hydrogen peroxide in alkaline solution.

Abstract Direct titration of hydrogen peroxide in alkaline bromide media has been accomplished with sodium hypochlorite. The relative standard deviation is 0.2%. A photometric end-point is recommended for the determination of 0.10–1.0 mequiv of peroxide. Larger samples are evaluated by use of Bordeaux Red as visual indicator. The hypochlorite procedure compares favourably with iodometry and permanganate in the analysis of commercial peroxides.
Clostridium difficile infection in horses: A review

Clostridium difficile is considered one of the most important causes of diarrhea and enterocolitis in horses. Foals and adult horses are equally susceptible to the infection. The highly resistant spore of C. difficile is the infectious unit of transmission, which occurs primarily via the fecal-oral route, with sources of infection including equine feces, contaminated soil, animal hospitals, and feces of other animals. Two major risk factors for the development of C. difficile associated disease (CDAD) in adult horses are hospitalization and antimicrobial treatment, although sporadically, cases of CDAD can occur in horses that have not received antimicrobials or been hospitalized. The most common antibiotics associated with CDAD in horses are erythromycin, trimethoprim/sulfonamides, β-lactam antimicrobials, clindamycin, rifampicin, and gentamicin. Clinical signs and intestinal lesions of CDAD infection are not specific and they cannot be used to distinguish infections by C. difficile from infections by other agents, such as Clostridium perfringens or Salmonella sp. The distribution of lesions throughout the intestinal tract seems to be age-dependent. Small intestine is invariably affected, and colon and cecum may or may not have lesions in foals<1-month old. Naturally acquired disease in older foals and adult horses has a more aboral distribution, affecting colon and sometimes cecum, but rarely the small intestine. Detection of toxin A, toxin B or both in intestinal contents or feces is considered the most reliable diagnostic criterion for CDAD in horses. Isolation of toxigenic strains of C. difficile from horses with intestinal disease is highly suggestive of CDAD. A better understanding of pathogenesis, reservoirs of infection, and vaccines and other methods of control is needed. Also further studies are recommended to investigate other possible predisposing factors and/or etiological agents of enteric diseases of horses.
Immunochemical observations of antigen 5, a major venom allergen of hornets, yellowjackets and wasps

Antigen 5 is a venom protein of hornets, yellowjackets and wasps, and it is an important allergen for insect-sensitive patients. Antigen 5s from these insects are found to have similar amino-terminal sequences for their first 20 residues, and to have similar cyanogen bromide cleavage patterns. A partial sequence homology of antigen 5s and scorpion neurotoxins is observed. Antigen 5s from these insects show varying extents of cross reactivity when tested with mouse polyclonal antibodies by enzyme immunoassay and they show limited or no cross reactivity with mouse monoclonal antibodies. Chemically modified antigen 5s shown greatly decreased binding of antigen 5-specific mouse polyclonal antibodies. The modified antigen 5s include its reduced and carboxymethylated
Effect of material non-homogeneity on the inhomogeneous shearing deformation of a Gent slab subjected to a temperature gradient

Abstract It is well known that most rubber-like materials are non-homogeneous due to either imperfect manufacturing conditions or the action of severe thermo-oxidative environments in many practical applications. In this study, within the context of finite thermoelasticity, we theoretically analyze the inhomogeneous shearing deformation of a non-homogeneous rubber-like slab subjected to a thermal gradient across its thickness. The major objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the material non-homogeneity, which is the material-coordinate dependence of the material response functions, on the stress–strain fields for a given temperature gradient. First, we show the existence of a simple shearing deformation from which the generalized shear modulus and the generalized thermal conductivity of the slab could be obtained. Based on this information, the Gent material model is generalized to take the material non-homogeneity and the temperature dependence of the stress into account. To analyze the inhomogeneous shearing deformation of the non-homogeneous slab, deformation and temperature fields are postulated; then the decoupled temperature field is obtained analytically by solving the local energy balance equation. Finally, the static equilibrium equations are solved considering the linear temperature field. Our results show that the spatial pattern and the degree of the material non-homogeneity have profound effects on the stress–strain fields. The shear strain becomes nearly homogeneous and the stresses are relatively small for a certain spatial variation of the material non-homogeneity. This result suggests the possibility of designing a novel class of materials: functionally graded rubber-elastic materials (FGREMs).
Mixed Surfactants as Mobile Phase Additives for the Separations of Organic Compounds by HPLC

A low concentration of a surfactant added to a mobile phase containing 60% acetonitrile (+ 40% water) significantly reduces the capacity factors of organic analytes. An even greater reduction in k‘ resulted from the use of binary additive systems, particularly those containing a cationic and an anionic surfactant. It is believed that an ion pair is formed that is more effective in forming solution complexes with organic analytes than either additive alone. Other binary additive systems included mixtures of a neutral and a charged additive or a mixture of two anionic surfactant additives. A ternary mixture of additives was more effective than any of the binary mixtures in modifying the chromatographic behavior of organic solutes in HPLC.
Solid-state NMR as a probe of amyloid fibril structure.

Abstract Amyloid fibrils are intrinsically noncrystalline, insoluble, high-molecular-weight aggregates of peptides and proteins, with considerable biomedical and biophysical significance. Solid-state NMR techniques are uniquely capable of providing high-resolution, site-specific structural constraints for amyloid fibrils, at the level of specific interatomic distances and torsion angles. So far, a relatively small number of solid-state NMR studies of amyloid fibrils have been reported. These have addressed issues about the supramolecular organization of β-sheets in the fibrils and the peptide conformation in the fibrils, and have concentrated on the β-amyloid peptide of Alzheimer’s disease. Many additional applications of solid-state NMR to amyloid fibrils from a variety of sources are anticipated in the near future, as these systems are ideally suited for the technique and are of widespread current interest.
Rapid amplification of uncharacterized transposon-tagged DNA sequences from genomic DNA

Although the entire DNA sequence of the yeast genome has been determined, the functions of nearly a third of the identified genes are unknown. Recently, we described a collection of mutants, each with a transposon-tagged disruption in an essential gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Identification of these essential genes and characterization of their mutant phenotypes should help assign functions to these thousands of novel genes, and since each mutation in our collection is physically marked by the uniform, unique DNA sequence of the transposable element, it should be possible to use the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify the DNA adjacent to the transposon. However, existing PCR methods include steps that make their use on a large scale cumbersome. In this report, we describe a semi-random, two-step PCR protocol, ST-PCR. This method is simpler and more specific than current methods, requiring only genomic DNA and two pairs of PCR primers, and involving two successive PCR reactions. Using this method, we have rapidly and easily identified the essential genes identified by several of our mutants.
The psychopathology of everyday Vienna: psychoanalysis and Freud's familiars.

This paper examines the parapraxes made by, to or about Jewish-identifi ed individuals discussed by Freud in Psychopathology of everyday life. Each of these errors and slips is occasioned by what he terms a ‘mesalliance’ between a Jew and a Gentile. Such incidents of distorted language betray unresolved ambivalences and unformulated anxieties endemic to Jewish-Gentile interaction in Freud's Vienna. First, the disturbed relationships between German-speaking Gentiles and their threatening Doppelganger, the Jews, are analyzed by means of Freud's analysis of the ‘uncanny’ and an examination of the particular restrictions placed upon the ‘offi cially’ emancipated Jews in the Habsburg Empire, especially with regard to intermarriage. Then, the paper turns to Freud's discussions of explicitly Jewish-identifi ed individuals and their limitation to illustrating parapraxes associated with what should be the most pleasurable and intimate relationships between Jew and Gentile, namely sexual and connubial relations. His focus upon this confl icted conjunction diagnosed the intrinsically problematic character of Jew-Gentile interaction in his Vienna.
Interaction of Single-chain Urokinase and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor Type 1

Urokinase (u-PA) is synthesized and secreted as a single-chain polypeptide (single-chain u-PA, scu-PA), which has such little enzymatic activity in solution that it has been considered essentially enzymatically inert. We found that plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), the major PAI in plasma, demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of this solution-phase scu-PA enzymatic activity. 125I-scu-PA formed complexes with PAI-1 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, as detected by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under reducing conditions. Among a given population of scu-PA molecules, all measurable enzymatic activity was inhibited by a 10-fold molar excess of PAI-1. However, at this stoichiometry, only a minority of 125I-scu-PA molecules formed SDS-stable complexes with PAI-1 (i.e. complexes that formed a covalent bond upon denaturation), even though the uncomplexed PAI-1 molecules remained competent to inhibit u-PA enzymatic activity. Neither the extent nor the time course of complex formation was altered by using PAI-1 that had been pre-incubated with native human vitronectin, compared with native PAI-1 alone. 125I-scu-PA•PAI-1 complexes that would form a covalent bond if denatured were reversible and existed in equilibrium with either non-complexed or loosely complexed reactants. These data suggest that scu-PA has more enzyme-like properties than previously appreciated and raises the possibility that it resembles single-chain tissue type-plasminogen activator in lacking a complete zymogen conformation.
Dimensions of Pediatric Procedural Distress: Children's Anxiety and Pain During Immunizations

The purpose of this study was to isolate and compare children's procedural anxiety and pain. The study was conducted in a school-based pediatric health clinic with 39 fourth graders receiving 3 injection vaccinations over a 6-month period. Child and nurse ratings and an observational scale assessed anxiety and pain. Results suggest that anxiety and pain are highly correlated, however self-report and an observational measure discriminate between these constructs. Self-report and observational measurement indicated more pediatric pain than anxiety, whereas nurse reports did not indicate differences between children's pain and anxiety.
Varying the temperature of the liquid used for high-pressure processing of prerigor pork: effects on fresh pork quality, myofibrillar protein solubility, and frankfurter textural properties.

: The objective was to evaluate high-pressure processing (HPP) with varying liquid (water) temperatures on pork quality and textural properties of frankfurters. HPP pressurization liquid temperatures were 15.5 °C (HPP Low) and 29.4 °C (HPP Med). Analyses were conducted using paired boneless loins and paired boneless hams. Loins were evaluated for pH, purge loss, objective color, subjective color, firmness; and changes in color after a bloom period. Eight independent batches (2 batches each of HPP Low, paired untreated, HPP Med, and paired untreated) of frankfurters were manufactured from the outside portion of the ham and the knuckle. Both HPP treatments resulted in higher (P < 0.05) ultimate pH and less (P < 0.05) purge loss of the loin. Loin tenderness was not different among either HPP treatment temperature groups when compared to untreated controls except HPP Med chops were more tender (P = 0.02) than untreated controls. Salt-soluble protein extractability of inside ham muscles was lower (P < 0.05) for both HPP treatment levels when compared to untreated controls, but was not different between the 2 HPP treatment levels. Textural properties of frankfurters were not different for either HPP treatment group when compared to its respective untreated control for any parameter except springiness. HPP Low frankfurters had lower (P = 0.10) springiness values than untreated controls. Fracturability of HPP Med samples was lower (P = 0.12) than untreated controls. Overall, HPP caused higher ultimate pH and increased water-holding capacity, but did not affect tenderness of fresh meat or textural properties of frankfurters. Practical Application: HPP can be used on prerigor pork as means to improve fresh pork quality. Loins from HPP-treated pork sides had higher ultimate pH values and less package purge loss. Tenderness values were not affected positively or negatively by HPP treatment. The high pH and water-holding capabilities of treated samples have positive implications for further processing applications. Frankfurter textural properties suggest emulsified products can be made with pressurized pork without sacrifice to the textural profile.
The use of intravenous gadopentetate dimeglumine in magnetic resonance imaging of synovial lesions.

Spin echo T1- and T2-weighted images and intravenously administered gadopentetate dimeglumineenhanced T1-weighted images were obtained in 4 normal volunteers and 11 patients (11 joints) with painful, intermittent, or persistent joint swelling of unknown etiology. These studies were retrospectively reviewed to assess the benefits of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating the synovium. Normal synovium and joint fluid showed no visually apparent enhancement on images obtained immediately after intravenous injection of gadopentetate dimeglumine. Abnormal synovium enhanced significantly, allowing the precise identification of equivocal or unsuspected synovial disease processes. These results suggest that, in selected cases, enhanced MRI can be a useful adjunct in the evaluation of suspected synovial disease processes.
Photoelectric energy distributions associated with interconduction band transitions in Cu, Ag and Au

Abstract The photoelectric energy distributions associated with direct transitions between the bulk conduction bands in the three noble metals have been calculated using the interconduction band structures determined in analyses of the piezo-optical response. The good overall agreement between the calculated and observed line shapes strongly corroborates the piezo-optical determinations. However, small discrepancies for initial energies around the Fermi energy are noted which we believe can not be attributed to direct transitions in the bulk.
TRENDS IN INAPPROPRIATE USE OF CARDIAC STRESS TESTING WITH IMAGING AMONG PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS AND CARDIOLOGISTS IN THE UNITED STATES

Appropriate use criteria (AUC) for imaging stress testing address concerns about utilization growth, high costs, and radiation safety. However, differences in test use over time between primary care physicians (PCPs) and cardiologists have not been examined. We analyzed 164,569 ambulatory visits
Using Multivariate, Techniques to Analyze with in-Subject Effects in Univariate Anova Repeated Measures Designs

The purpose of the present paper is to illustrate the use of multivariate techniques to analyze repeated measures ANOVA designs. As compared to a conventional repeated measures ANOVA, such techniques require less strict assumptions about population variances and covariances. A comprehensive illustrative example is given for the case of a three-way design with two factors repeated. Differences between the results for this multivariate analysis and those for a conventional analysis of the same data are discussed. General reasons for such differences are discussed.
Reinforcing effects of contingently administered subcutaneous injections of etonitazene in rats.

Rationale: Response-contingent injections of opioids have been shown to control behavior in various species. Objective: To determine whether s.c. injections of etonitazene (ETZ) could maintain behavior in rats when administered under a single fixed-interval schedule. Methods: Rats were trained to lever press for eight 45-mg food pellets under a single fixed-interval (FI) 10-min schedule of reinforcement: following passage of the 10-min interval, each lever press resulted in a pellet delivery until eight pellets were obtained. Delivery of the reinforcer was signaled by a change in visual stimulus conditions. Once stable responding for the food pellets under the FI 10-min schedule was established, a s.c. injection of 3.2 µg/kg ETZ was administered to the rat by the investigator following schedule completion and delivery of the food pellets. After receiving the drug injection, rats were returned to the experimental chamber for 30 min and exposed to the same stimulus conditions that accompanied food reinforcement. Across sessions, the number of food pellets was decreased until rats were responding solely for the drug. Results: Responding for the s.c. administered drug stabilized and persisted across sessions. When saline vehicle injections were substituted for the drug injections, responses diminished across sessions to levels below that of the drug baseline. Subsequent alternating blocks of ETZ and vehicle injections produced respective increases and decreases in responding. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that response-contingent s.c. injections of a drug can control behavior in rats, systematically replicating a previous experiment that used the i.p. route. Since all pertinent operant behavior is emitted prior to the administration of drug, this procedure can be used for testing the reinforcing effects of a drug without interference from any direct (rate-altering) drug effects. The present findings also extend the conditions under which drugs of abuse may reinforce behavior.
The palpable tendon friction rub

Objective. To evaluate the clinical and prognostic significance of palpable tendon friction rubs in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods. SSc patients evaluated prospectively at the University of Pittsburgh were examined serially for the presence of tendon friction rubs on physical examination. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory features of disease were obtained by patient examination, annual patient questionnaire, and medical record review. Patients were classified as having limited or diffuse scleroderma according to standard definitions. The prognostic significance of the presence of tendon friction rubs was determined using this comprehensive database. Results. The SSc patients (n = 1,305) were first evaluated during 1972 through 1991 and were followed up for a mean of 6.3 years. Tendon friction rubs were detected most frequently in patients who had or who developed diffuse cutaneous involvement. There were strong correlations between the presence of tendon friction rubs and symptoms and signs typical of diffuse scleroderma, including more severe skin thickening, more frequent heart and kidney involvement, and decreased survival. In multiple regression analyses, the presence of 1 or more tendon friction rubs was one of the best predictors of both evolution to diffuse scleroderma and reduced survival. Conclusion. The palpable tendon friction rub is an easily detected, inexpensively obtained physical examination finding which is highly associated with diffuse cutaneous scleroderma and decreased survival. This observation should lead to the early diagnosis of diffuse scleroderma and should identify patients at high risk for serious visceral involvement who are thus candidates for potential disease-modifying therapy.
Electrochemical biosensor based on supported planar lipid bilayers for fast detection of pathogenic bacteria

This paper presents a new ion-channel biosensor based on supported bilayer lipid membrane for direct and fast detection of Campylobacter species. The sensing element of a biosensor is composed of a stainless-steel working electrode, which is covered by artificial bilayer lipid membrane (BLM). Antibodies to bacteria embedded into the BLM are used as channel forming proteins. The biosensor has a strong signal amplification effect, which is defined as the total number of ions transported across the BLM. The total number of (univalent) ions flowing through the channels is 1010 ions s−1. The biosensor showed a very good sensitivity and selectivity to Campylobacter species.
Cardiac Bypass Induced Cardiac Dysfunction Occurs At Onset of Bypass in Hypoxic Newborn Lambs 136

Institution of cardiac bypass has resulted in cardiac dysfunction in some studies of ECMO. We hypothesize that pre-bypass oxygenation level (and possibly antioxidants) determines cardiac effect.
Selenium and Sulfur Content and Activity of Associated Enzymes in Selected Potato Germplasm

Potato plants are being supplemented with selenium (Se) to enrich tubers with Se for health benefits. Se is not an essential nutrient and interferes with the metabolism of sulfur (S) in plants. The objective of the present investigation was to study the activities of Se-independent glutathione peroxidase (Se-Ind-GPx), Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (Se-Dep-GPx), and thioredoxin reductase (TRxR) enzymes in stored potato tubers grown on a non-Se-enriched field; and assess their relationship with tuber Se and S levels. The results indicate that these enzyme activities and the Se and S levels in the tubers were significantly influenced by genotype. Se-Dep-GPx activities were influenced by Se levels in the tubers. S content of tubers of all genotypes tested were below the critical nutrition concentration. In spite of this deficiency, the levels of S (which were very high in comparison with Se) influenced the activities of Se-Ind-GPx and TRxR in the tubers. Tubers of some of the genotypes tested can supply more than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of Se to adult humans.
Dynamic response for motion capture animation

Human motion capture embeds rich detail and style which is difficult to generate with competing animation synthesis technologies. However, such recorded data requires principled means for creating responses in unpredicted situations, for example reactions immediately following impact. This paper introduces a novel technique for incorporating unexpected impacts into a motion capture-driven animation system through the combination of a physical simulation which responds to contact forces and a specialized search routine which determines the best plausible re-entry into motion library playback following the impact. Using an actuated dynamic model, our system generates a physics-based response while connecting motion capture segments. Our method allows characters to respond to unexpected changes in the environment based on the specific dynamic effects of a given contact while also taking advantage of the realistic movement made available through motion capture. We show the results of our system under various conditions and with varying responses using martial arts motion capture as a testbed.