cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A thermodynamic investigation of reactions catalyzed by tryptophan synthase

Abstract Microcalorimetry and high-performance liquid chromatography have been used to conduct a thermodynamic investigation of the following reactions catalyzed by the tryptophan synthase α2β2 complex (EC 4.2.1.20) and its subunits: indole(aq)+ l -serine(aq)= l -tryptophan(aq)+H2O(l); l -serine(aq)=pyruvate(aq)+ammonia(aq); indole(aq)+ d -glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate(aq)=1-(indol-3-yl)glycerol 3-phosphate(aq); l -serine(aq)+1-(indol-3-yl)glycerol 3-phosphate(aq)= l -tryptophan(aq)+ d -glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate(aq)+H2O(l). The calorimetric measurements led to standard molar enthalpy changes for all four of these reactions. Direct measurements yielded an apparent equilibrium constant for the third reaction; equilibrium constants for the remaining three reactions were obtained by using thermochemical cycle calculations. The results of the calorimetric and equilibrium measurements were analyzed in terms of a chemical equilibrium model that accounted for the multiplicity of the ionic states of the reactants and products. Thermodynamic quantities for chemical reference reactions involving specific ionic forms have been obtained. These quantities permit the calculation of the position of equilibrium of the above four reactions as a function of temperature, pH, and ionic strength. Values of the apparent equilibrium constants and standard transformed Gibbs free energy changes ΔrGm′° under approximately physiological conditions are given. Le Châtelier's principle provides an explanation as to why, in the metabolic pathway leading to the synthesis of l -tryptophan, the third reaction proceeds in the direction of formation of indole and d -glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate even though the apparent equilibrium constant greatly favors the formation of 1-(indol-3-yl)glycerol 3-phosphate. © 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Genetics of Clusterin Isoform Expression and Alzheimer's Disease Risk

The minor allele of rs11136000 within CLU is strongly associated with reduced Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. The mechanism underlying this association is unclear. Here, we report that CLU1 and CLU2 are the two primary CLU isoforms in human brain; CLU1 and CLU2 share exons 2–9 but differ in exon 1 and proximal promoters. The expression of both CLU1 and CLU2 was increased in individuals with significant AD neuropathology. However, only CLU1 was associated with the rs11136000 genotype, with the minor “protective” rs11136000T allele being associated with increased CLU1 expression. Since CLU1 and CLU2 are predicted to encode intracellular and secreted proteins, respectively, we compared their expression; for both CLU1 and CLU2 transfected cells, clusterin is present in the secretory pathway, accumulates in the extracellular media, and is similar in size to clusterin in human brain. Overall, we interpret these results as indicating that the AD-protective minor rs11136000T allele is associated with increased CLU1 expression. Since CLU1 and CLU2 appear to produce similar proteins and are increased in AD, the AD-protection afforded by the rs11136000T allele may reflect increased soluble clusterin throughout life.
Vascularized composite islet-kidney transplantation in a miniature swine model

Previous work from this laboratory has demonstrated that transplantation of allogeneic thymic tissue as part of a composite vascularized graft is far more successful in terms of both engraftment and long-term survival than transplantation of thymic tissue or cells alone. We have subsequently extended this concept to transplantation of allogeneic islets, comparing survival of islet cell suspensions to that of vascularized composite islet-kidneys (IK), prepared by injection of autologous islets underneath the renal capsule 2-3 months prior to allogeneic transplantation of the composite organ. We have utilized partially inbred miniature swine with defined MHC loci as the experimental large animals for this study, permitting reproducible transplantation across specific MHC barriers. Composite IK have been transplanted successfully across minor and full MHC mismatch barriers, using treatment regimens previously demonstrated to induce long-term tolerance of kidney allografts across these barriers. IK allografts containing ≥5000 islet equivalents (IE)/kg recipient body weight were found capable of reversing surgically induced diabetes, while injection of comparable numbers of purified islets via the portal vein or under the renal capsule did not. Studies are also being directed toward preparation of autologous “thymo-islet-kidneys” (TIK), for potential use as xenografts, in which the thymic component is intended to induce tolerance and the islets to reverse diabetic hyperglycemia. The use of both types of composite organ transplants may eventually be applicable to the treatment of type I diabetic patients suffering from end-stage diabetic nephropathy.
Anterior instrumentation in thetreatment of lower cervical spine injuries

Abstract Anterior cervical instrumentation is a valuable adjunct to bony fusion techniques in obtaining internal stability to thecervical spine following trauma. Anterior plate fixator may obviate the need for a subsequent posterior procedure in cases of associated posterior cervical ligamentous instability, decrease the potential for loss of alignment or deformity, prevent graft dislodgment, and minimize the need for restrictive external immobilization for easier rehabilitation.
Geometric methods in rational interpolation theory

Abstract This paper studies the minimal rational interpolation problem using algebrogeometric methods. Specifically, we deal in a unified framework with the following problems: scalar and matrix interpolation, and left and right tangential interpolation. While the results we prove are known, our methods of proof are quite different. In addition, our proof shows that these problems can be solved by an application of the Grobner basis algorithm, a popular computational tool in computer algebra.
The Culture of Privilege: Color-blindness, Postfeminism, and Christonormativity

This article argues that the ideology of color-blind racism is part of a broader, overarching ideology of “oppression blindness.” Using an intersectional framework for understanding white privilege, color-blind racism is seen not as a distinct ideology, but one which overlaps with and reinforces other systems of inequality. This article specifically examines the interconnections and similarities among color-blindness, postfeminism, and christonormativity. Examining their similarities, I argue that we should approach each discourse as one strand in a larger tapestry that intertwine and work together to reinforce and defend the culture of privilege.
Integrated marketing communications: New role expectations and performance issues in the client-ad agency relationship

Abstract Marketing client representatives have important work roles to perform in the creation of the advertising agency service. Yet it seems likely that the implementation of integrated marketing and the integrated marketing communications (IMC) approach will inevitably lead to new role expectations and performance issues concerning client and agency representatives. Whereas research on the client-ad agency relationship suggests agencies may have difficulties satisfying their clients because of inadequate or unpredictable client role performance, it also seems likely that implementation of the IMC approach will lead to even greater client role requirements, contributing to role stress, or ambiguity. In this article, (1) the IMC approach and its implications for the client-agency relationship are discussed; (2) an emerging line of theory development in the organization and management literature is reviewed, which views clients as “partial” employees and emphasizes how and when client role performance can be controlled; (3) the likely antecedents and consequences of client representative role ambiguity are discussed; and (4) representative research propositions are presented that focus on the issues emerging from the discussion.
Exercise for Low-Income Patients With Diabetes A Continuous Quality Improvement Project

PurposeThe specific aim of this project was to form a partnership between a community health center (CHC) to improve access to exercise for low-income patients with type 2 diabetes.MethodsEligible participants were members of the Siouxland Community Health Center (SCHC), 19 years of age or older, with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Patients were medically waived and received an invitation to exercise at the Siouxland YMCA. An exercise coach (pharmacist, registered nurse, or medical assistant) met with each patient and scheduled and conducted exercise visits for participating patients 2 times each week. Patients’ baseline clinical variables were taken and assessed quarterly over a 12-month period.ResultsThis collaboration established an ongoing exercise program with a total of 1297 exercise encounters in a 12-month period. Forty-eight of 130 eligible patients (36.9%) visited theYMCA on at least 1 occasion. Patients were categorized as experimental (56.3%), involved (25%), and regular (18.8%) exercisers. N...
Microvascular abnormalities of the portal hypertensive gastric mucosa

Compared with normotensive mucosa, the portal hypertensive gastric mucosa has increased susceptibility to injury by noxious agents such as alcohol and aspirin, but the mechanism of this phenomenon is unclear. Since the microvasculature of the normal gastric mucosa is an important target of injury by these agents, we studied the histologic and ultrastructural features of gastric vasculature and mucosal microvasculature in rats with portal hypertension (produced by staged portal vein ligation) and in sham-operated rats. In portal hypertensive rats, the gastric mucosa was swollen and hyperemic and the endothelial cells of mucosal microvessels had very prominent enlarged cytoplasm obstructing capillary lumina. Quantitative analysis of transmission electron micrographs demonstrated that in portal hypertensive rats the gastric mucosal capillary endothelium had significantly increased cytoplasmic area (236%), increased pinocytic vesicular area (416%) and increased capillary basement membrane thickness (143%) compared to respective parameters in sham-operated control rats. Arterioles in the muscularis mucosae and in submucosa were thickened, and submucosal veins demonstrated features of arterialization. All these findings indicate that portal hypertension produces definite microvascular changes in the gastric mucosa resulting in compromise of the capillary lumina. These changes may be the basis for the observed morphologic and functional abnormalities of the portal hypertensive mucosa and its increased predisposition to injury.
Non‐iterative solution of the energy equation in transparent stagnation‐point shock layers

Two‐point boundary value problems occur frequently in the various disciplines of applied science and engineering. Traditional methods of solving this type of equation rely heavily on iterative methods, such as the shooting technique. When this method is used, the missing initial condition is assumed and the differential equation is integrated as an initial‐value problem until the independent variable reaches the terminal point. The calculated terminal condition is then compared with the given one. If the agreement is not within the specified degree of accuracy, the iterative process is repeated. Although most of these iterative problems can be solved fairly easily using high‐speed computers available at present, the solution procedures are basically inefficient and awkward. In this paper a non‐iterative method is presented. This method is simple and efficient, and the results are accurate. An energy equation of a transparent stagnation‐point shock layer is used to demonstrate the basic concept and solutio...
Storm Water Pollution Source Identification in Washington, DC, Using Bayesian Chemical Mass Balance Modeling

AbstractA Bayesian chemical mass balance (CMB) model was used to identify the sources of heavy metals in a highly urbanized area at the vicinity of the Anacostia River in Washington, DC. This method uses the elemental profiles of potential sources and the storm water runoff samples at two outfalls into the Anacostia River to infer the contribution of each source by providing the joint probability densities of the contribution of each source and the credible intervals of the inference. For this purpose, the potential sources of heavy metals in the urban catchment were identified and multiple samples of each were collected and analyzed by using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique to determine their elemental profiles. Next, a Bayesian CMB method was employed to infer the contribution of various sources to the storm water runoff. The results of the analysis revealed that paved surfaces that accommodate traffic (i.e., street, bridge, and parking lot) are the major contributors to both di...
Single-link characteristics of a mode-seeking clustering algorithm

Abstract This paper demonstrates the similarity between the single-link clustering method and a recently proposed clustering method based on mode-seeking. A user of clustering algorithms should be aware of this fact when attempting to assess clusters from different points of view.
Ultrastructural morphometric features of human sural nerve endoneurial microvessels

We studied the morphometric features of 366 transversely sectioned endoneurial microvessels in sural nerves from 50 healthy volunteers (mean age 34.5 +/- 15.8, range 20 to 66 years). Nerves were obtained and processed by the same techniques and standards used to study biopsied nerves from patients with neuropathy. Endothelial area, basement membrane area, number of endothelial nuclei and junctions, and number of periendothelial nuclei all increase significantly with vessel size as judged by mural area. Periendothelial cell coverage of endothelial perimeter does not correlate with vessel size. Components of endoneurial microvessels, specifically the area containing basement membrane, do not change significantly with age. The present report provides a detailed characterization of the ultrastructural features of endoneurial microvessels with age in humans and provides optimal reference values for study of microvessel pathologic changes in disease.
Killer Robots: Why the US should Lead the Ban

Killer robots are systems that can choose targets without further human intervention. The US should take the lead at the United Nations in creating specific new global norms and clarify expectations and universally agreed behavior. The US is the only country in a strong enough position to take the lead to stop a technology that will mean the loss of humanity in decisions of war and peace. The time to act is now before unpredictable proliferation occurs. A preventive ban on offensive killer robots is the vital first step in setting a principled limit to killing-yielding automation and is a critical tool in the effort to regulate other robotics and nascent technology that could destabilize international peace and security. The potential for fully autonomous weapons systems to be advantageous is unpromising. Fully autonomous weapons systems do not appear to offer military advantages for modern warfare that would be compliant with international law. Four branches of international law require attention here, and examined together, they serve as a foundational bedrock that has historically been used to constrain violence in war: the law of state responsibility, the law on the use of force, international humanitarian law and human rights law.
Analytical models for valence fermions in isotropic traps

Abstract For isotropic confining Ioffe-Pritchard or TOP potentials, a valence fermion trapped with a closed core of other fermions can be described by an analytical effective one-particle model with a physical eigenspectrum. Related constructions exist for Paul and Penning traps. The analytical models arise from quantum-mechanical supersymmetry.
Are the Viking Lander sites representative of the surface of Mars

Global remote sensing data of the Martian surface, collected by earth- and satellite-based instruments, are compared with data from the two Viking Landers to determine if the Lander data are representative of the Martian surface. The landing sites are boulder-strewn and feature abundant fine material and evidence of strong eolian forces. One site (VL-1) is in a plains-covered basin which is associated with volcanic activity; the VL-2 site is in the northern plains. Thermal IR, broadband albedo, color imaging and radar remote sensing has been carried out of the global Martian surface. The VL-1 data do not fit a general correlation observed between increases in 70-cm radar cross-sections and thermal inertia. A better fit is found with 12.5-cm cross sections, implying the presence of a thinner or discontinuous duricrust at the VL-1 site, compared to other higher-inertia regions. A thin dust layer is also present at the VL-2 site, based on the Lander reflectance data. The Lander sites are concluded to be among the three observed regions of anomalous reflectivity, which can be expected in low regions selected for the landings. Recommendations are furnished for landing sites of future surface probes in order to choose sites more typical of the global Martian surface.
Hybridization of an ITS-based macroarray with ITS community probes for characterization of complex communities of fungi and fungal-like protists.

The ability to characterize fungal community structure and dynamics in the environment is constantly challenged by the high levels of diversity that must be confronted. Large-scale oligonucleotide arrays for use in such analytical studies are currently under development; however, the implementation of this approach generally requires substantial time and financial resources. To address the need for a more accessible tool for fungal community profiling and broad diagnostics, we evaluated the potential utility of a reverse dot blot approach utilizing macroarray targets and probes that each consisted of a PCR product of the entire fungal ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 gene region. Samples used to generate the array targets included both culturable and non-culturable fungi and fungal-like protists representing a range of ecological functions. Tests performed using single-species probes within the genus Pythium demonstrated that taxonomic lineages could generally be distinguished when ITS DNA sequence similarity differed by greater than 5‐10 %. An artificially constructed community probe of known composition successfully detected eight of the 10 lineages contained on the array with only one clear false positive in 95 targets. The approach was also successfully applied to environmental samples. Taxa resident in the soil of a local orchard were identified using the array and matched those documented in previous studies. Closely related taxa from a previously uncharacterized and geographically distant orchard soil were also identified by the array and had affinities to Leptodontium, Cadophora, Zalerion, and Geomyces. These taxa were further confirmed to be present in the sample by cloning and DNA sequencing. A minority of lineages had DNA targets with low melting temperatures which were not detected on the arrays except under conditions that compromised specificity. Membrane-based ITS macroarrays coupled with community ITS probes possessed sufficient power to detect multiple genus-level lineages of fungi in complex samples and should have broad applications in the study of fungal communities. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The British Mycological Society.
Tomographic plaque imaging with CT: technical considerations and capabilities

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is widely available in the world and has the ability to provide high-definition, thin-section imaging of any body part. In particular, CT over the past decade has been shown in numerous publications to allow for quantitation of coronary calcification, a proven surrogate for coronary artery atheromatous plaque. Electron beam tomography (EBT) and multidetector CT (MDCT) have been studied for these purposes. However, there are methodological differences between types of CT scanners and precision of calcium scoring is a function of their individual technical capabilities and limitations. These technical aspects are detailed here. Although MDCT has shown considerable improvements in recent years, EBT remains the clinical reference standard for noninvasive definition of atherosclerotic plaque.
Novel animation reactions of dihydrofurano[2,3-d] pyrimidines†

Although alkoxypyrimidines can be aminated to yield aminopyrimidines, monoamination of 2,4- or 4,6-chloroalkoxypyrimidines results in chlorine displacement. Preferential alkoxy displacement in such systems is unusual. We now have evidence of such a displacement in the dihydrofurano[2,3-d] pyrimidines (V). In some cases two types of products, formed by displacement of either the chlorine or alkoxy substituent, were obtained.
THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A HOOP STRUCTURE FOR SWINE PRODUCTION

The thermal performance of a low-cost, hoop-type swine building (3.55 × 5.7 × 10.3 m) was evaluated under the winter weather conditions of Central Japan. The hoop building had two curved roofs made from 2.5 cm diameter tubular steel pipes each covered with a reflective film. There was a 20 cm air space between the inner and outer covers through which the exhaust air flowed. A positive-pressure ventilation fan and an air distribution duct were used to supply the fresh air. The evaluation was conducted for three opening configurations of the air distribution duct (one, two, or four holes on a cross-section of the duct) and presence or absence of an internal curtain. Furthermore, the effect of replacing the reflective film with a PVC film for the east side cover on solar transmission and thus the internal temperature rise was quantified. The building was simulated to house 30 pigs at a body weight of 70 kg. Resistive heating wire was used to simulate the sensible heat generation of the pigs at 131.5 W/pig at 10°C temperature. The inside temperature averaged 6.9°C higher than the outside temperature during the minimum ventilation period. As the exhaust air passed through the double-layer air space, 25.4% of exhaust heat transferred back into the building and 74.6% lost to the outside. When replacing the reflective covers with the PVC film covers on the east side, the internal temperature rise increased to an average of 7.6°C with a maximum of 12.7°C. The magnitude of temperature rise was proportional to the transmitted solar radiation, as evidenced by the higher temperature rise during the day and significantly reduced temperature rise at night. To eliminate the effects of cold, nocturnal radiation, the PVC film cover should be covered by the regular reflective cover at night. One-holed air duct had a tendency to produce drafts in the pig occupied zone (POZ, 1.2 × 0.7 m), whereas four-holed air duct tended to have less mixing effects on the air. In comparison, the combination of two-holed air duct and use of the internal curtain was found to be the best in achieving warmer air temperature and minimizing drafts in POZ.
Apnea duration: Respiratory Inductance Plethysmography (RIP) and Transthoracic Impedance (TTI) Pneumography vs. Polysomnography (PSG) † 1791

Apnea duration: Respiratory Inductance Plethysmography (RIP) and Transthoracic Impedance (TTI) Pneumography vs. Polysomnography (PSG) † 1791
Intrapersonal and Ecodevelopmental Factors Associated with Smoking in Hispanic Adolescents

We examined how relationships among intrapersonal (i.e., attitudes and beliefs about smoking) and ecodevelopmental (i.e., family, school, and peer) factors influence risk for lifetime smoking in immigrant Hispanic adolescents. Our sample was comprised of 223 immigrant Hispanic adolescents and their families and was drawn from 3 middle schools in a single school district. Data collected is a result of adolescent and parent completed questionnaires as well as county school data (i.e., GPA, teacher reported effort and conduct, absences). Results indicated only poor school functioning, peer smoking, and lack of perceived harm concerning smoking were directly related to adolescent lifetime smoking. Poor school functioning and peer smoking mediated the relationship between family functioning and adolescent smoking. Implications of these results for the design of smoking preventive interventions for immigrant Hispanic adolescents are discussed.
γ-Tocopherol abolishes postprandial increases in plasma methylglyoxal following an oral dose of glucose in healthy, college-aged men.

Postprandial hyperglycemia contributes to the risk of cardiovascular disease in part by increasing concentrations of the reactive dicarbonyl methylglyoxal (MGO), a byproduct of glucose metabolism. Oxidative stress increases MGO formation from glucose in vitro and decreases its glutathione-dependent detoxification to lactate. We hypothesized that the antioxidant γ-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, would decrease hyperglycemia-mediated postprandial increases in plasma MGO in healthy, normoglycemic, college-aged men. Participants (n=12 men; 22.3±1.0 years; 29.3±2.4 kg/m(2)) received an oral dose of glucose (75 g) in the fasted state prior to and following 5-day ingestion of a vitamin E supplement enriched in γ-tocopherol (500 mg/day). γ-Tocopherol supplementation increased (P .05). Postprandial MGO concentrations increased in the absence of supplemental γ-tocopherol (P .05). Area under the curve for plasma MGO was significantly (P<.05) smaller with the supplementation of γ-tocopherol than without (area under the curve (0-180 min), -778±1010 vs. 2277±705). Plasma concentrations of γ-carboxyethyl-hydroxychroman, reduced glutathione and markers of total antioxidant capacity increased after supplementation, and these markers and plasma γ-tocopherol were inversely correlated with plasma MGO (r=-0.48 to -0.67, P<.05). These data suggest that short-term supplementation of γ-tocopherol abolishes the oral glucose-mediated increases in postprandial MGO through its direct and indirect antioxidant properties and may reduce hyperglycemia-mediated cardiovascular disease risk.
Smoking and schizophrenia : abnormal nicotinic receptor expression

Abstract Biological and genetic evidence suggests a role for the neuronal nicotinic receptors in the neuropathophysiology of schizophrenia. Nicotine normalizes an auditory evoked potential deficit seen in subjects who suffer from the disease. Nicotinic receptors with both high and low affinity for nicotine are decreased in postmortem brain of schizophrenics compared to control subjects. The chromosomal locus of the human α-7 gene (15q14) is linked to the gating deficit with a lod of 5.3, and antagonists of the α-7 receptor (α-bungarotoxin and methyllycaconitine) induce a loss of gating in rodents. We have cloned the human α-7 gene and found it to be partially duplicated proximal to the full-length gene. The duplication is expressed in both the brain and in peripheral blood cells of normal subjects, but is missing in some schizophrenic subjects. The results of these studies suggest the presence of abnormal expression and function of the neuronal nicotinic receptor gene family in schizophrenia.
Syndecan-1 Expression in the Lung during Pneumocystis Infection

SYNDECAN-1 (Sdc-1) is one of the most abundant heparin sulfate proteoglycans in animals. These glycans are ubiquitous receptors or co-receptors of extracellular ligands, such as fibronectin and thrombospondin-1 (Lebakken and Rapraeger 1996). Syndecan-1 has been shown to act as adhesion and internalization receptors for pathogenic microorganisms (Rostand and Esko 1997). It is a membrane protein, and its ectodomain may shed under certain circumstances. This Sdc-1 ectodomain can inhibit the activity of antimicrobial peptides, such as bactenecins 7 and PR-39 (Park et al. 2001). It has been shown that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may be responsible for Sdc-1 shedding (Endo et al. 2003; Fitzgerald et al. 2000; Li et al. 2002). The expression and function of Sdc-1 during Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP) have not been studied. Our results show that Pneumocystis infection induces the expression and shedding of Sdc-1 and increases mRNA levels of MMP2, MMP12, and MMP14.
Cas9 specifies functional viral targets during CRISPR-Cas adaptation

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) loci and their associated (Cas) proteins provide adaptive immunity against viral infection in prokaryotes. Upon infection, short phage sequences known as spacers integrate between CRISPR repeats and are transcribed into small RNA molecules that guide the Cas9 nuclease to the viral targets (protospacers). Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 cleavage of the viral genome requires the presence of a 5'-NGG-3' protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) sequence immediately downstream of the viral target. It is not known whether and how viral sequences flanked by the correct PAM are chosen as new spacers. Here we show that Cas9 selects functional spacers by recognizing their PAM during spacer acquisition. The replacement of cas9 with alleles that lack the PAM recognition motif or recognize an NGGNG PAM eliminated or changed PAM specificity during spacer acquisition, respectively. Cas9 associates with other proteins of the acquisition machinery (Cas1, Cas2 and Csn2), presumably to provide PAM-specificity to this process. These results establish a new function for Cas9 in the genesis of prokaryotic immunological memory.
Two peptidases that convert 125I-Lys-Arg-(Met)enkephalin and 125I-(Met)enkephalin-Arg6, respectively, to 125I-(Met)enkephalin in bovine adrenal medullary chromaffin granules.

Abstract Two peptidases which convert 125 I-Lys-Arg-ME and 125 I-ME-Arg 6 , respectively, to 125 I-ME, have been identified and characterized in bovine adrenomedullary chromaffin granules. The former is referred to as a secretory granule peptidase (SGP) and the latter as a carboxypeptidase B-like enzyme (CPB-like) [7] which is here further characterized. SGP cleaved 125 I-Lys-Arg-ME to produce only 125 I-ME and was localized in chromaffin granules which contained co 2 + -stimulated CPB-like activity, ME, and catecholamines. Both the SGP and the CPB-like enzymes appear to be thiol-metalloproteases. While the CPB-like enzyme seems likely to be involved in processing the enkephalin precursors [7], SGP may function as a trypsin-like or aminopeptidase enzyme in secretory granules.
Narrowband and wideband coherent THz source generation using three-wave difference frequency mixing and cross-Reststrahlen band dispersion compensation in ultrahigh-purity III-V semiconductor crys

We discuss the Cross-Reststrahlen band phasematching technique for narrow-band three-wave interactions. In GaP, assuming a maximum practical crystal length of 100 millimeters, the calculations predict that with a source wavelength of 0.965 micrometers, a tuning range of greater than 50 GHz is possible around the perfectly phasematched 3.0 THz center frequency. When GaP is pumped with a source wavelength of 1.000 micrometers, the coherence length is at least 100 mm for a frequency range of greater than 600 GHz around the perfectly phasematched 630 GHz center frequency. High Resistivity GaP is available in cylindrical boules that are larger than 50 millimeters in diameter and 75 millimeters in length. GaP has a bandgap cutoff wavelength in the Visible at 0.55 micrometers and a simple phonon absorption spectrum with a single fundamental absorption at approximately 27 micrometers, which indicates a potential for high transmission in both the NIR and FIR. Any remaining FIR absorption can be attributed to free electron absorption and two phonon absorption processes. In this paper, we report new measurements of GaP regarding FIR absorption, optical damage threshold and optical quality. These measurements indicate that undoped, high-resistivity GaP single crystal can be used to generate THz waves.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The role of fluid phase immiscibility in quartz dissolution and precipitation in sub-seafloor hydrothermal systems

Abstract A numerical model describing quartz dissolution and precipitation in sub-seafloor hydrothermal systems has been developed that documents the effects of retrograde quartz solubility and fluid phase immiscibility on the transport and deposition of silica in this environment. Rates of dissolution and precipitation increase with increasing permeability and with increasing maximum temperature at the base of the system. At the most optimal conditions considered in this study (425 °C, permeability of 10 − 13 m 2 ), quartz is precipitated at rates up to 10 − 6 mol/m 3 ·s (equivalent to 700 cm 3 of quartz per cubic meter of rock per year). Immiscibility at the base of the system creates a zone in which large amounts of quartz precipitate as a result of phase separation. The high rate of quartz precipitation at the one-fluid-phase/two-fluid phase boundary is consistent with the location of highly silicified zones found beneath volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits. Rapid quartz deposition at this boundary may affect the heat transfer efficiency at the base of the upflow zone and may contribute to immobilizing the brine layer so that it does not rise towards the surface. The process of rapid quartz precipitation at the base of the upflow zone, and its effects on the dynamics of these systems, is only observed under conditions of liquid–vapor immiscibility.
Alexander Bain and the genesis of paragraph theory

Alexander Bain popularized six rules for paragraph construction within his rhetorical theory. As a result, he is usually called the founder of paragraph theory. His concept of the paragraph appears to be analogically derived from sentence theory. Bain, however, was not the first to theorize about paragraphs and may have been influenced by his predecessors. Furthermore, his compositional theory in general as well as his sentence theory could have influenced his paragraph theory. An examination of his association psychology reveals a logically consistent rationale for the derivation of Bain's paragraph theory.
Biotransformation of Nitrosamines and Precursor Secondary Amines under Methanogenic Conditions

The biotransformation potential of six nitrosamines and their precursor secondary amines by a mixed methanogenic culture was investigated. Among the six nitrosamines tested, N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), N-nitrosomethylethylamine (NMEA), and N-nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR) were almost completely degraded but only when degradable electron donors were available. On the contrary, N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), N-nitrosodipropylamine (NDPA), and N-nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA) were not degraded. Three precursor secondary amines, corresponding to the three biodegradable nitrosamines, were also completely utilized even with very low levels of available electron donors. The secondary amine precursors of the three, nonbiodegradable nitrosamines were also recalcitrant. A bioassay conducted to elucidate the biotransformation pathway of NDMA in the mixed methanogenic culture using H(2) as the electron donor showed that NDMA was utilized as an electron acceptor and transformed to dimethylamine (DMA), which in turn was degraded to ammonia and methane. The H(2) threshold concentration for NDMA bioreduction ranged between 0.0017 and 0.031 atm. Such a high H(2) threshold concentration suggests that in mixed methanogenic cultures, NDMA reducers are weak competitors to other, H(2)-consuming microbial species, such as homoacetogens and methanogens. Thus, complete removal of nitrosamines in anaerobic digestion systems, where the H(2) partial pressure is typically below 10(-4) atm, is difficult to achieve.
Horizontal stress contrast in the shallow marine sediments of the Gulf of Mexico sites Walker Ridge 313 and Atwater Valley 13 and 14 – Geological observations, effects on wellbore stability, and implications for drilling

Abstract Significant horizontal stress anisotropy was encountered in three blocks in the Gulf of Mexico drilled by the Gulf of Mexico gas hydrates Joint Industry Project, namely, Atwater Valley 13, Atwater Valley 14, and Walker Ridge 313. The geological factors responsible for this state of stress and the implications for wellbore stability and drilling operations are explored. In Atwater Valley 13 and 14, stresses at the well sites were perturbed by the underlying salt. In Walker Ridge 313, a combination of thrusting by adjacent salt and material anisotropy associated with the regional minibasin structure caused the maximum horizontal stress to rotate with depth. Horizontal stress anisotropy combined with a lack of heavy mud caused breakouts to form in the well Walker Ridge 313-G (WR313-G). A simple formula to predict the depth at which wells drilled with seawater are prone to breakouts is derived. Evidence is presented that the breakouts in WR313-G produced heavy cavings which were mainly responsible for the tight hole conditions encountered while drilling this well. However, it is shown that bottom hole assembly (BHA) design and drilling practices such as backreaming may have exacerbated these problems. Modifications to drilling practices based on the experience gained from drilling WR313-G helped to improve the quality of the neighboring borehole WR313-H.
Immortal, non-tumourigenic mouse mammary outgrowths express high levels of cyclin B1 and activation of cyclin B1/cdc2 kinase.

. Neoplastic transformation of mouse mammary epithelial cells is the result of several identifiable phenotypic changes which presumably require sequential genetic alterations. In our model system, mammary cells progress from a mortal state (virgin duct) to several morphologically distinct intermediate states. The intermediate states are distinct cell populations that are phenotypically identified as immortal, non-tumourigenic (i.e. EL11), weakly tumourigenic ductal/alveolar hyperplasia (i.e. EL12) and moderately tumourigenic alveolar hyperplasiaa (i.e. TM12) to invasive tumours (i.e. EL12T/TM12T). We have studied the changes in total cyclin A and B1 levels, cyclin A and B1 complexed to cdc2, cyclin B1cdc2 kinase activity and cyclin D proteins in EL11 and EL12 immortalized outgrowth lines. Results revealed increased levels in total cyclin B1(> 5-fold), cyclin B1/cdc2 (3–4-fold) and cyclin B1/cdc2 kinase activity (2–3.5-fold) in EL11 and EL12 phenotypes when compared to control mammary gland (virgin). No changes in the levels of total cyclin A or cycln A associated to cdc2 were observed. Cyclin D1, D2 and D3 protein levels were low in the EL11 immortal ductal outgrowth. Exposure to hormones via a pituitary isograft stimulated the synthesis of cyclin D1 and D2 but not D3 associated to cdk4 as well as total cdk4 proteins. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) labelling indices showed marked increases in immortal ductal outgrowths (EL11 and EL12) when compared to virgin, suggesting that epithelial cells are cycling in these cell populations. Even in the presence of hormone stimulation, EL11 outgrowths were not tumourigenic, suggesting that other events are necessary to drive the cells to a tumourigenic phenotype. The results suggest that increased levels of cyclin B1 and cyclin B1-cdc2 kinase activities are early events and may be an important marker for the immortalized phenotype.
Lung sarcoidosis in etanercept treated rheumatoid arthritis patient: a case report and review of the literature.

We report a 55-year-old female with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis for 10 years who developed large mediastinal and hilar adenopathy while receiving etanercept therapy. Chest high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) showed mediastinal lymph nodes with size of centimeters. Right paratracheal lymph node biopsy showed nonnecrotizing epithelioid granulomata. All infectious studies of pulmonary lymph node tissues were negative. Etanercept was discontinued. Follow-up HRCT 6 months later showed resolution of mediastinal lymph nodes. This report should increase awareness of pulmonary sarcoidosis development in patient treated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha blocking agent, etanercept.
Carbon-13 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrum of Quinacrine

Abstract The natural abundance carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum of quinacrine was determined using the pulse Fourier transform technique. The chemical shift of various carbon resonances have been assigned on the basis of the substituent effects on benzene shifts, multiplicities generated in SFORD spectrum and comparison with structurally related compounds.
Cognitive Workload while Driving and Talking on a Cellular Phone or to a Passenger

Twelve adults experienced in using cellular telephones participated in an investigation of driving and performing a communication task. They navigated a closed serpentine driving course, requiring constant driving activity. Their communication task was responding to a verbal cognitive test battery administered by the passenger or via cellular telephone. The test battery consisted of sentence remembering with read-back and verbal puzzle solving. Baseline treatments were navigating the course without communication and responding to the test battery while parked. Subjects were prompted to report their current level of workload, using the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT), throughout their tasks. Driving speeds were significantly lower when using the phone than they were with the passenger speaking, but the analysis did not reveal a difference in perceived workload between these conditions. Workload ratings were lower in the drive-only condition than they were when the driver used the phone.
Hydrogen induced interfacial polarization at PdSiO2 interfaces

Internal photoemission experiments were performed to study the polarization layer induced by hydrogen at PdSiO2 interfaces. It was found that this polarization layer behaves like a true dipole layer where one monolayer of hydrogen atoms at the interface corresponds to a barrier lowering of 0.5 eV in accordance with earlier measurements on threshold voltage shifts of Pd-SiO2 -Si field effect transistors. Furthermore experiments on AlSiO2 structures indicate that the catalytic dissociation of H2 on metals like Pd and Pt is necessary for the introduction of a hydrogen polarization layer at a metal-SiO2 interface.
Growth rates of hprt and tk mutant CHO cell lines.

Abstract The growth rates of 31 X-ray-induced hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase ( hprt ) deficient mutants of CHO-K1 cells were measured. Mutants had been classified as (1) full-deletion, (2) partial deletion or rearrangement, or (3) unchanged by Southern blot analyses. No relationship between growth rate and deletion type was observed. Even where all hprt -specific bands were missing, proliferation rates in culture were normal. Additionally, in CHO-AT3-2 cells, which are heterozygous at the tk locus, no difference in growth rates between a spontaneous hprt mutant and its parent was observed, although double hprt-tk -/− mutants grew more slowly.
FINNIS ON NATURE, REASON, GOD

It is often claimed that John Finnis's natural law theory is detachable from the ultimate theistic explanation that he offers in the final chapter of Natural Law and Natural Rights. My aim in this paper is to think through the question of the detachability of Finnis's theistic explanation of the natural law from the remainder of his natural law view, both in Natural Law and Natural Rights and beyond. I argue that Finnis's theistic explanation of the natural law as actually presented can be, without too much strain, treated as largely detachable in the way that his readers have by and large supposed it to be; indeed, Finnis's account as actually presented really amounts to no explanation of the natural law at all, theistic or otherwise, and that fact accounts in part for the ease with which Finnis's natural law view can be detached from theism of that final chapter. Nevertheless, the considerations raised in that chapter militate in favor of a much more thoroughgoing, largely nondetachable theistic account. And it is just such an account that we find Finnis affirming in the development of his views after Natural Law and Natural Rights.
Characterization of MgO-TiO 2 -based ceramic materials at W-band

We report characterization of low-loss MgO-TiO 2 system ceramic materials in the 75-110 GHz (W-band) and 0.5-18 GHz frequency ranges. Measurements of the complex permittivity are used to study the dielectric constant, loss tangent, and DC conductivity (low-frequency) behavior of the materials for application in millimeter-wave vacuum electron devices. We investigate the effects of varying ceramic synthesis process parameters on the rf material properties.
Abstract 2512: Extreme value distributions describe cancer age-specific incidence data.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC The incidence of cancers varies with age, if normalized this is called the age-specific incidence. A mathematical model that describes this variation should provide a better understanding of how cancers develop. We suggest that the age-specific incidence should follow an extreme value distribution, based on three widely accepted assumptions: (1) a tumor develops from a single cell, (2) many potential tumor progenitor cells exist in a tissue, and (3) cancer is diagnosed when the first of these many potential tumor cells develops into a tumor. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the predicted distribution to the age-specific incidence data for colon and prostate carcinomas collected by the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results network of 17 cancer registries. We found that colon carcinoma age-specific incidence data is consistent with an extreme value distribution, while prostate carcinomas age-specific incidence data generally follows the distribution. This model indicates that both colon and prostate carcinomas only occur in a subset of the population (22% for prostate and 13.5% for colon.) Because of their very general nature, extreme value distributions might be applicable to understanding other chronic human diseases. Citation Format: Luis Soto-Ortiz, James P. Brody. Extreme value distributions describe cancer age-specific incidence data. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2512. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2512
The optical and magnetic properties of CoO and Co nanocrystals prepared by a facile technique

CoO and Co nanocrystals with cubic crystal structures were prepared by thermal decomposition of cobalt(II) acetate tetrahydrate in a mixture of oleylamine and oleic acid under the protection of nitrogen gas at 300 °C for 2 h. The products of CoO or Co nanocrystals are determined by the relative amount of oleylamine due to its reducibility. The sizes and shapes of CoO or Co can be controlled by the ratio of cobalt : oleylamine : oleic acid due to different binding capabilities of the two capping ligands (oleylamine and oleic acid). A modification of the surface state by surface passivation arising from the capping ligands for CoO nanocrystals leads to the blue shift of the ligand-metal charge transfer (LMCT) absorption. Room temperature ferromagnetism originating from uncompensated surface spins, as well as magnetic moments weakly exchange coupled to the CoO lattice due to defects inside CoO nanoparticles, are observed. The magnetic behaviors of CoO and Co nanoparticles also shed light on the synthesis and the magnetic properties of the antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic nanomaterials.
In-111 Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A simple method of labeling live bacteria with a gamma-emitting radioisotope

We describe a simple and reliable technique for labeling Pseudomonas aeruginosa with a readily available commercial preparation of indium-111 (111In) oxine. Labeling of a heavy bacterial suspension with 500 μCi of commercially prepared 111In-oxine resulted in a yield of 0.0004 μCi of cell-associated 111In per 106 colony-forming units (CFU). The label was 88% bacterially associated and did not effect viability of the organism. Radiolabeling a gram-negative organism with 111In-oxine provides a nontoxic, stable gamma-emitting bacterial tracer.