cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 in laminae of black walnut extract treated horses correlates with neutrophil abundance

We sought to determine whether a correlation exists between neutrophil infiltration and tissue matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) content in digital laminae collected during the prodromal and acute phases of laminitis in horses treated with an aqueous black walnut heartwood extract (BWE). Hoof laminar tissue was obtained at the onset of leukopenia and at the onset of clinical signs of lameness from BWE-treated horses and at equivalent times from control horses. Thin sections of laminae were screened for neutrophils by immunohistochemistry with an anti-CD13 monoclonal antibody and extracts of the same tissues were screened for SDS-renaturable and native MMP-9 activities by denaturing and non-denaturing gelatin zymography. Samples were also screened for MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene expression by RT-qPCR. Control laminae were devoid of both MMP-9 and neutrophils, whereas neutrophils and SDS-renaturable MMP-9 activity were detected in laminae from BWE-treated horses and were strongly correlated at the acute stage of the disease at which time laminar MMP-9 gene expression was significantly (15-fold) elevated. In contrast, BWE-treatment did not significantly elevate MMP-2 gene or protein expression in the laminae. Interestingly, MMP-9 that was present in extracts of laminae from BWE-treated horses at both the prodromal and acute stages of the disease was mainly in the zymogen form, suggesting that the accumulation of the MMP did not contribute to pathology during these stages. However, elevated presence of the MMP-9 zymogen in the tissue would predispose it to catastrophic damage should conditions arise that cleave the regulatory propeptide domain.
Bovine and porcine gelatin sensitivity in children sensitized to milk and meat.

Cross-reactive bovine and porcine gelatin-specific IgE antibody is more common in cow’s milk and beef or pork meat-sensitized individuals than previously known and a potential risk factor for allergic reactions to gelatin-containing products (foods, vaccines).
On recognizing graph properties from adjacency matrices

A conjecture of Aanderaa and Rosenberg [15] motivates this work. We investigate the maximum number C(P) of arguments of P that must be tested in order to compute P, a Boolean function of d Boolean arguments. We present evidence for the general conjecture that C(P) = d whenever P(0d) ≠ P(1d) and P is invariant under a transitive permutation group acting on the arguments. A non-constructive argument (not based on the construction of an “oracle”) settles this question for d a prime power. We use this result to prove the Aanderaa-Rosenberg conjecture: at least v216 entries of the adjacency matrix of a v-vertex undirected graph G must be examined in the worst case to determine if G has any given non-trivial monotone graph property.
Altered reactivity of isolated segmental lumbar arteries of dogs following exposure to ethanol and phenol

Abstract Celiac plexus neurolysis is a useful analgesic technique in patients with upper abdominal cancer. Although complications are infrequent, occasionally celiac neurolysis results in paraplegia. It is hypothesized that paraplegia after celiac neurolysis results from neurolytic drug-induced spasm of lumbar segmental arteries that perfuse the spinal cord, although no data are available to support or refute the idea. Whether drugs used for celiac plexus neurolysis alter the reactivity of dogs' lumbar segmental arteries was studied in vitro. Rings of lumbar segmental arteries, suspended in Krebs-Ringer solution in organ baths, were passively stretched to the optimal point on their length-tension curve. After a 45-min rest the responsiveness of each ring was established by adding an ED 50 concentration of norepinephrine to the bath. Subsequently, Krebs-Ringer solution containing a single concentration of phenol or ethanol was added. Concentrations studied included 1%, 3%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, and 12% phenol; and 3%, 6%, 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 90% ethanol. The magnitude of the phenol-induced contractile response was directly related to concentration, with 8%, 9% and 12% phenol, producing sustained contractile responses compared to norepinephrine-induced control contractile responses. The ethanol-induced contractile response was inversely related to concentration. Ethanol (3% and 6%) produced sustained contractile responses compared to norepinephrine-induced control contractile responses. Studies were then done to further elucidate the agonist properties of phenol and ethanol. The contractions caused by ethanol or phenol did not appear to be mediated through adrenergic, opioid, muscarinic, or serotonin receptors or sodium channels. Addition of procaine eliminated the sustained response to ethanol-induced contraction, while it did not with phenol-induced contractions. It is possible that a concentration of phenol or alcohol of the magnitude found to cause contraction of these vessels could be achieved clinically. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that this study provides no direct evidence that alcohol or phenol will lead to ischemia of the magnitude to cause paraplegia in the clinical setting.
The custom fitting problem and the evolution of developmental systems.

When the complexity of a developmental system evolves to a certain point, appreciable variation must occur in the process. The problem the biologist faces is whether this point constitutes a limit to the evolution of complexity in developmental systems. If not, what mechanisms are employed to cope with the problem ? The problem—essentially one in “custom fitting” of parts, — and the possible solution(s) to it that have evolved are discussed. The antibody producing system appears to be one that “solves” the custom-fitting problem.
Radiobiological considerations in magna-field irradiation

Radiobiological considerations are described for total body irradiation (TBI) as given to patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Although much progress has been made in the use of BMT for refractory leukemias, many patients still die from interstitial pneumonia and relapse. Fractionated TBI has been introduced in order to improve leukemic cell kill, while increasing the degree of normal tissue tolerance. Traditionally, bone marrow stem cells, leukemic cells and immunocytes have been considered as having a limited ability to repair radiation damage while cells of lung tissue and intestinal epithelial cells have a greater capacity. During fractionated radiation therapy or continuous low-dose rate exposure, repair of sublethal damage between fractions allows greater recovery in the cell of lung tissue compared to those in the bone marrow. Clinically, the potential benefit of six fractions over one fraction or low dose-rate TBI has yet to be proved, although there is suggestive evidence for a reduced incidence of interstitial pneumonitis. However, other extraneous factors such as doses to the lung, differences in conditioning regimens, effect of increased delay in BMT for patients receiving fractionated TBI, and the unmeasurable differences between insitutions make definite conclusions impossible. Despite this, a consenus for dose fractionation has developed and most centers are moving away from the use of large single dose TBI.
The safety and efficacy of oral methylnaltrexone in preventing morphine‐induced delay in oral‐cecal transit time

Methylnaltrexone is a quaternary opioid antagonist with limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier that has the potential to antagonize the peripherally mediated gastrointestinal effects of opioids. In recent trials in human volunteers, we demonstrated that intravenous methylnaltrexone prevented morphine-induced changes in gastrointestinal motility and transit, without affecting analgesia. In this study, 14 healthy volunteers were first given three ascending oral doses of methylnaltrexone to obtain safety and tolerance data (phase A study). In phase B, these subjects were then given single-blind oral placebo and intravenous placebo, followed by randomized, double-blind oral placebo and intravenous morphine (0.05 mg/kg) or oral methylnaltrexone (19.2 mg/kg, an established highest and safe dose based on previous administrations of two smaller doses of 0.64 mg/kg and 6.4 mg/kg in phase A) and intravenous morphine (0.05 mg/kg). Oral-cecal transit time was assessed by the pulmonary hydrogen measurement technique after lactulose ingestion. Morphine significantly increased oral-cecal transit time from 114.6 +/- 37.0 minutes (mean +/- SD) to 158.6 +/- 50.2 minutes (p < 0.001). Oral methylnaltrexone (19.2 mg/kg) completely prevented morphine-induced increase in oral-cecal transit time (110.4 +/- 45.0 minutes; not significant compared with baseline; p < 0.005 compared with morphine alone). These sessions were then followed by single-blind evaluations of descending doses of methylnaltrexone. We observed that 6.4 mg/kg oral methylnaltrexone significantly attenuated the morphine-induced delay in oral-cecal transit time (p < 0.005 compared with morphine alone), and a dose-dependent response was obtained. There was no correlation between oral methylnaltrexone effects on the transit time and the drug plasma concentration, suggesting direct preferential luminal effects of oral methylnaltrexone. Oral methylnaltrexone may have a clinical value in the prevention and treatment of constipation induced by long-term opioid use.
Synthesis of cyclic and acyclic partial retro‐inverso modified enkephalins

The cyclic partial retro-inverso modified enkephalins, H-Tyr-cyclo[-D-Glu-Gly-gPhe-D-Leu-] (I), H-Tyr-cyclo[-D-A2bu-Gly-gPhe-R&S-mLeu-] (IIf, IIs), and H-Tyr-cyclo[-D-Glu-Gly-Phe-gLeu-] (III), have been synthesized by solution methodology. In a like manner, their corresponding acyclic analogs Ia-IIIa containing D-Ala2 have also been prepared. Gem-diaminoalkyl residues were generated by conversion of Boc-dipeptide carboxamide to the corresponding gem-diaminoalkyl "dipeptide" salt using [bis(trifluoroacetoxy)iodo] benzene. Cyclizations were achieved at high dilution utilizing diphenylphosphoryl azide as the coupling reagent.
Seasat and Geosat Revisited: Using Sea Level Measurements to Improve Satellite Altimeter Orbits

Global maps of sea surface height can be reconstructed by fitting patterns of satellite altimeter-derived sea level variability to historical tide gauge measurements. The accuracy of these maps is uncertain because of the limited sampling available in the historical record. Reconstructed maps from August 9, 1978 and August 9, 1987 are composed with maps derived from 17-day repeat orbit sampling provided by Seasat and GEOSAT altimetry, respectively, to evaluate the fidelity of the sea level reconstructions. Given sufficiently accurate reconstructed time series, it is shown that it is possible to improve orbit error filtering procedures to better account for oceanographic signals. This could improve the accuracy of the Seasat and GEOSAT orbits and the utility of the altimeter measurements for ocean and ice studies relying on these unique historical altimetric records.
Complete Genome Sequence of a New Circular DNA Virus from Grapevine

ABSTRACT A novel circular DNA virus sequence is reported from grapevine. The corresponding genomic organization, coding potential, and conserved origin of replication are similar to those of members of the family Geminiviridae, but the genome of 3,206 nucleotides is 4% larger than the largest reported geminiviral genome and shares only 50% overall sequence identity.
Measuring Visual Function and Quality of Life in Patients With Cytomegalovirus Retinitis: Development of a Questionnaire

Objective: To develop and test a brief questionnaire designed to assess visual symptoms, visual function in daily activities, and impact of treatment administration in patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis related to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Design: Observational cross-sectional study. Patients were recruited in June and July 1992. Setting: Seven university-based sites participating in the Studies of Ocular Complications of AIDS. Patients: Twenty-six subjects enrolled in a randomized trial that compared foscarnet and ganciclovir for the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis. Main Outcome Measures and Analysis: Distributions of scores, reliability, and validity of newly developed scales to assess visual function, visual symptoms, and global vision. Spearman rank correlations with 95% confidence intervals were used to test hypothesized relationships between scale scores, visual acuity, visual field, and findings from visual examination. Results: The final 18-item self-administered questionnaire required 5 minutes to complete. The new scales had high internal consistency (Cronbach α=.81 to.94). As hypothesized, patient-reported vision scores decreased with greater abnormalities found on ophthalmologic examination. Visual symptoms were most strongly related to findings in the worse eye. Visual function and global vision scores were moderately correlated with findings from visual testing and examination, and less strongly related to general health perceptions. Patients reported considerable impairment: 42% reported blurred vision; 40%, difficulty reading; 44%, difficulty driving; and 40%, that treatment interfered with social activities; 50% reported substantial trouble with their vision. Conclusions: The brief questionnaire developed to assess patient-reported visual function in cytomegalovirus retinitis appears reliable and valid as a measure of performance of vision-related activities, visual symptoms, and the impact of treatment administration. Further research is needed to test its utility as an outcome measure in longitudinal studies of cytomegalovirus retinitis.
Suggested mnemonics for cloned DNA corresponding to enzymes involved in starch metabolism

All known isoforms of ADPglucose synthase are heterotetramers composed of two dissimilar subunits. The deduced primary structures in hand can be divided into five groups based upon fractional identity. The relationship between two proteins in different groups is 50 to 60% identity, while two proteins within a group are 85 to 95% identical. All known enzymes from nonmutant plants contain one subunit from one of the groups of protein and one subunit from one of the other four categories of proteins. We think the database should implicitly indicate this. There are two possibilities for this group.
Clinical characteristics of veterans prescribed high doses of opioid medications for chronic non-cancer pain

Little is known about patients prescribed high doses of opioids to treat chronic non-cancer pain, though these patients may be at higher risk for medication-related complications. We describe the prevalence of high-dose opioid use and associated demographic and clinical characteristics among veterans treated in a VA regional healthcare network. Veterans with chronic non-cancer pain prescribed high doses of opioids (≥ 180 mg/day morphine equivalent; n=478) for 90+ consecutive days were compared to two groups with chronic pain: Traditional-dose (5-179 mg/day; n=500) or no opioid (n=500). High-dose opioid use occurred in 2.4% of all chronic pain patients and in 8.2% of all chronic pain patients prescribed opioids long-term. The average dose in the high-dose group was 324.9 (SD=285.1)mg/day. The only significant demographic difference among groups was race (p=0.03) with black veterans less likely to receive high doses. High-dose patients were more likely to have four or more pain diagnoses and the highest rates of medical, psychiatric, and substance use disorders. After controlling for demographic factors and VA facility, neuropathy, low back pain, and nicotine dependence diagnoses were associated with increased likelihood of high-dose prescriptions. High-dose patients frequently did not receive care consistent with treatment guidelines: there was frequent use of short-acting opioids, urine drug screens were administered to only 25.7% of patients in the prior year, and 32.0% received concurrent benzodiazepine prescriptions, which may increase risk for overdose and death. Further study is needed to identify better predictors of high-dose usage, as well as the efficacy and safety of such dosing.
Morphologies of laser-induced damage in hafnia-silica multilayer mirror and polarizer coatings

Hafnium-silica multilayer mirrors and polarizers were deposited by e-beam evaporation onto BK7 glass substrates. The mirrors and polarizers were coated for operation at 1053 nm at 45{degree} and at Brewster`s angle (56{degree}), respectively. They were tested with a single 3-ns laser pulse. Morphology of the laser-induced damage was characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Four distinct damage morphologies were found: pits, flatbottom pits, scalds, and delaminates. The pits and flat bottom pits (<30{mu}m dia) were detected at lower fluences (as low as 5 J/cm{sup 2}). The pits seemed to result from ejection of nodular defects by causing local enhancement of the electric field. Scalds and delaminates could be observed at higher fluences (above 13 J/cm{sup 2}) and seemed to result from the formation of plasmas on the surface. These damage types often originated at pits and were less than 300 {mu}m diameter; their size increased almost linearly with fluence. Finally, effects of the damage on the beam (reflectivity degradation and phase modulations) were measured.
Effect of housing stress on the formation and development of tumors in rats.

Abstract Tumor induction by 7,12-dimethylbenz[α]anthracene (DMBA) or inoculation with adenocarcinoma cells was studied in rats raised in groups (group G) or individually (group I) as well as in rats raised in groups and switched to individual housing at the beginning of the experiment (group GM I ). The number of DMBA-induced tumors did not differ among the three groups of female rats but tumor weight was lowest in group I, highest in group G I and intermediate in group G. The mean weight of adenocarcinoma cell-induced tumors was highest in group G I and did not differ between groups I and G. Male rats generally showed higher tumor weights than females, the values becoming significant in group G I . The results show that housing and sex can significantly affect tumor growth.
Pollen-specific expression of the Arabidopsis thaliana alpha 1-tubulin promoter assayed by beta-glucuronidase, chloramphenicol acetyltransferase and diphtheria toxin reporter genes.

We have characterized the promoter specificity of theArabidopsis thaliana α1-tubulin (α 1-tub) gene by studying expression patterns of gene fusions between the 2.2 kbp 5′ upstream region of theα 1-tub gene and each of three different reporters: chloramphenical acetyltransferase, β-glucuronidase or the diphtheria toxin chain A gene. Analysis of transgenic tobacco andArabidopsis plants carrying the transgene showed that the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase and β-glucuronidase activities were not detected in any vegetative or reproductive organs except mature pollen. Transgenic tobacco plants carrying the diphtheria toxin chain A gene under the control of theα 1-tub promoter were of normal phenotype but seed fertility was drastically reduced. Furthermore, the transgene could not be transmitted to the next generation through pollen, supporting the observation that theα 1-tub promoter is active only in pollen. It was observed that the promoter activity was most active in mature pollen and decreased significantly duringin vitro pollen germination, indicating that the promoter is inactive or subdued in germinating pollen. The promoter activity was not affected by various plant growth hormones during pollen maturation.
Structural Basis for the Specific Recognition of Dual Receptors by the Homopolymeric Psa Fimbriae of Yersinia Pestis

The pH 6 antigen or Psa fimbriae of Yersinia pestis bind to two receptors, β1-linked galactosyl residues in glycosphingolipids and phosphocholine group in phospholipids. Despite the ubiquitous presence of either moiety on the surface of many mammalian cells, Y. pestis appears to prefer interacting with certain types of human cells such as macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells of the lung. The molecular mechanism of this apparent selectivity is not clear. Site-directed mutagenesis of the consensus choline-binding motif in the sequence of PsaA, the subunit of the Psa fimbrial homopolymer, identified residues that abolish either galactosylceramide or phosphatidylcholine binding or both. The crystal structure of the ternary complex of an in cis donor-strand complemented PsaA, galactose and phosphocholine reveals separate galactose and phosphocholine binding sites that share a common structural motif, thus suggesting potential interaction between the two sites. Mutagenesis of this shared structural motif identified Tyr126, which is part of the choline-binding consensus sequence but is found in direct contact with the galactose in the structure of PsaA, important for both receptor binding. This is the first structural resolution of a fimbrial subunit that forms a polymeric polyadhesin describing a unique arrangement of dual receptor binding sites. These findings move the field forward by providing insights into new types of multiple receptor-ligand interactions and should steer research into the synthesis of dual receptor inhibitor molecules to slow down the rapid progression of plague.
Microfluidics for particle synthesis from photocrosslinkable materials

This paper is a review of microfluidics for particle synthesis from photocrosslinkable materials. Microfluidics for particle synthesis is rapidly gaining attention as a viable method for the synthesis of particles with applications in drug delivery, security, abrasives, rheology, catalysis and other areas. Particle synthesis can follow several schemes, but the focus of this review is particle synthesis from photocrosslinkable materials. In these systems, solid particles are formed by the light-initiated cross-linking of precursor materials. This review begins with a discussion of photocrosslinkable materials, typically synthetic hydrogels for particle synthesis applications. Next, polydimethyl siloxane and glass devices are presented as the primary microfluidic devices for synthesis from photocrosslinkable materials. Then, the review discusses three types of polymeric particles: spherical, spheroidal and Janus. Subsequently, composite particles and metal or metal oxide particles are discussed. The review closes with a discussion of particle throughput and the outlook for the field of particle synthesis from photocrosslinkable materials.
Toward Real Time Data Analysis for Smart Grids

This paper describes the architecture and design of a novel system for supporting large-scale real-time data analysis for future power grid systems. The widespread deployment of renewable generation, smart grid controls, energy storage, plug-in hybrids, and new conducting materials will require fundamental changes in the operational concepts and principal components of the grid. As a result, the whole system becomes highly dynamic and requires constant adjusting based on real time data. Even though millions of sensors such as phase measurement units (PMU) and smart meters are being widely deployed, a data layer that can analyze this amount of data in real time is needed. Unlike the data fabric in other cloud services, the data layer for smart grids has some unique design requirements. First, this layer must provide real time guarantees. Second, this layer must be scalable to allow a large number of applications to access the data from millions of sensors in real time. Third, reliability is critical and this layer must be able to continue to provide service in face of failures. Fourth, this layer must be secure. We address these challenges though a scalable system architecture that integrates the I/O and data processing capability in a devise set of devices. Data process operations can be placed anywhere from sensors, data storage devices, to control centers. We further employ compression to improve performance. We design a lightweight compression customized for power grid data. Our system can reduce end-to-end response time by reduce I/O overhead through compression and overlap compression operations with I/O. The initial prototype of our system was demonstrated with several use cases from PNNL's FPGI and show that our system can provide real time guarantees to a diverse set of applications.
Targeted disruption of LH receptor gene revealed the importance of uterine LH signaling

Abstract Numerous previous studies have demonstrated that LH and hCG can directly regulate several uterine functions. We investigated in the present study, whether uterine phenotype in LH receptor knockout animals resulted also from the absence of direct actions of LH in the uterus. The phenotype consisted of marked growth reduction of uterus, decreased thickness of endometrial and myometrial layers, number of endometrial glands, height of luminal epithelium and vascular space. Analysis of uterine gene expression by mouse genome U74Av2 Affymetrix genechips revealed a differential expression of 155 genes by more than 3-fold (range 3–53-fold) between null and wild-type animals. Of these, 89 genes decreased and 66 increased in uterus of null animals. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR confirmed the differential expression of several selected genes. The decreased genes can be clustered into 18 functional families and the increased into 15 functional families. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry demonstrated a decreased expression of ERβ, PR-A, PR-B and AR in uterus of null animals as compared with wild-type siblings. Twenty-one-day estradiol and progesterone replacement therapy did not normalize the decrease in the number of endometrial glands and several genes that either decreased or increased in expression. The partial success of therapy suggests that direct LH actions could be required to completely normalize the uterus. In summary, findings on the knockout model reaffirm that LH and hCG control uterine functions directly as well as indirectly through increasing ovarian synthesis of steroid hormones and both actions are required for normal uterine biology.
Distribution of Reynolds stress carried by mesoscale variability in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current

Satellite altimeter data collected by the Geosat Exact Repeat Mission were used to investigate turbulent stress resulting from the variability of surface geostrophic currents in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The altimeter measured sea level along the subsatellite track. The variability of the along-track slope of sea level is directly proportional to the variability of surface geostrophic currents in the cross-track direction. Because the grid of crossover points is dense at high latitudes, the satellite data could be used for mapping the temporal and spatial variability of the current. Two and a half years of data were used to compute the statistical structure of the variability. The statistics included the probability distribution functions for each component of the current, the time-lagged autocorrelation functions of the variability, and the Reynolds stress produced by the variability. The results demonstrate that stress is correlated with bathymetry. In some areas the distribution of negative stress indicate that eddies contribute to an acceleration of the mean flow, strengthening the hypothesis that baroclinic instability makes important contributions to strong oceanic currents.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Flow Past a Freely Rotatable Square Cylinder

This work deals with the response of a square cylinder free to rotate in a uniform flow. The two-dimensional, incompressible, time-dependent Navier-Stokes equation for flow around a fixed-cylinder are numerically solved for Reynolds numbers up to 250. The static rotational stability of the cylinder is analysed by considering moments around the fixed cylinder at different angles to the flow. The separation pattern and resulting wake are also investigated. Experiments are conducted on fixed and freely rotatable cylinders in the range of Reynolds number from 1,000 to 10,000. Variation of shedding frequency with cylinder orientation is determined for the fixed cylinder. The rotatable cylinder shows four distinct regimes of motion: a stable position where the cylinder side surfaces are parallel to the flow, periodic oscillations about this position, rotation with reversal of direction, and autorotation. Some of the dynamics of the freely rotatable cylinder can be modelled by a nonlinear, second-order differential equation. Numerical solutions of this simplified equation are compared qualitatively with experimental results.
Low-dose clozapine and diabetic ketoacidosis.

Received March 8, 2002; revision received Sept. 11, 2002; accepted Oct. 4, 2002. From the Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital. Address reprint requests to Dr. Lafayette, Department of Psychiatry, WACC 812, Massachusetts General Hospital, 15 Parkman St., Boston, MA 02114; jlafayette@partners.org (e-mail). Copyright 2003 The Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine. Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic medication, remains the most effective therapy for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Its efficacy has generally outweighed its potential to induce life-threatening agranulocytosis. In recent years, however, glucose intolerance, diabetes, and diabetic ketoacidosis have emerged as serious medical conditions associated with the use of atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine. Hagg and associates reported that 12% of 60 clozapine-treated patients developed non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and Henderson and colleagues reported that 36% of 82 clozapine-treated patients developed diabetes within 5 years. To date, 12 cases of diabetic ketoacidosis (Table 1) and multiple cases of hyperglycemia have been reported in association with clozapine administration. Among the clozapine-treated patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, clozapine doses ranged from 200 mg/day to 500 mg/ day (in one, the dose was unreported). We describe the case of a woman who developed diabetic ketoacidosis while taking low-dose clozapine, and we review the literature on new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis during clozapine administration.
Non-linear optothermal properties of metal-free phthalocyanine

The nonlinear optical properties of metal-free phthalocyanine (MFPC) thin films were examined using the second harmonic at 532 nm from a pulsed Nd:YAG laser, and the cw He-Ne , and Ar+ lasers. The He-Ne laser transmission at fixed input intensity was found to increase temporally within a time scale of twelve hours. The origin of this temporal change of transmission is discussed. The third order nonlinear susceptibilities (chi (exp(3))) by four-wave mixing were measured for films of different thickness. The saturation intensity of MFPC, and its absorption cross section, at 633 nm from a He-Ne laser, are reported. An optical bistability was recorded using a He-Ne laser. An AND logic gate was also demonstrated in the system. These phenomena in the system are attributed to refractive index modulation by thermal excitations.
THE DIFFERENTIAL IN VITRO STIMULATION OF 3',5'- CYCLIC NUCLEOTIDE PHOSPHODIESTERASE BY CALCIUM BINDING PROTEINS

A heterogeneous class of proteins exhibit within their sequence a particular structure, named EF-hand, able to bind calcium with high affinity. These calcium binding proteins have been described in most cells and tissues and are suggested to work as calcium buffers, thereby participating in the regulation of calcium-dependent cellular activity. Recent circumstantial evidences suggest that calcium binding proteins may serve other functions as well, possibly as enzyme modulators. Since 3',5'-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase is a well-known calmodulin-modulated enzyme, in this work we studied the effect in vitro of different purified calcium binding proteins on the activity of this enzyme. Among the proteins tested, calmodulin and recombinant rat brain parvalbumin could stimulate the 3',5'-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity in vitro, whereas rabbit muscle parvalbumin, rat renal and brain calbindin D28K, and bovine brain S-100B were ineffective. Immunoprecipitation with the specific antiserum completely abolished either calmodulin or recombinant brain parvalbumin activation of 3',5'-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. Moreover, while the presence of calcium in the incubation mixture was critical in the calmodulin-mediated stimulation of the enzyme, it did not modify the effect of the recombinant brain parvalbumin. We suggest that, in addition to calmodulin, parvalbumin may be a regulator of 3',5'-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, and possibly of other yet to be identified enzymes in certain tissues.
Mixed crystal infrared study of chain folding in crystalline polyethylene

Infrared spectroscopic studies have been made of mixed crystals of linear polyethylene and perdeuteropolyethylene. On the basis of normal vibration analyses by Tasumi and Krimm it had been shown that the study of crystal splittings of internal chain modes in such mixed crystals could provide information on the geometry of chain folding. The present results, which include a study of n-paraffin (C36) mixed crystals, confirm these predictions. They show that (110) folding predominates in dilute solution grown crystals, and that this is transformed to (200) folding in melt-crystallized polymer. Folding with adjacent re-entry is favored, a random re-entry model being clearly eliminated.
Are desert reptiles different

Ecophysiology of Desert Reptiles. By S.D. Bradshaw. Academic:1987. Pp.324. Hbk £29,$58; pbk£17,$34.
Comparative effects of intravenous dipyridamole and sublingual nitroglycerin on coronary hemodynamics and myocardial metabolism at rest and during atrial pacing in patients with coronary artery disease

The effects of intravenous dipyridamole (20 mg) and sublingual nitroglycerin (0.6 mg) were compared at rest and during rapid atrial pacing in patients with significant coronary obstruction. Dipyridamole, which had no significant effect on resting systolic blood pressure, caused a significant increase in coronary sinus flow (CSF) and reduction of coronary vascular resistance (CVR) and arterial-coronary sinus oxygen difference (AO2CSO2 delta), whereas nitroglycerin reduced resting systolic pressure but had no significant effect on CSF, CVR, or AO2-CSO2 delta. Although theses effects of dipyridamole and nitroglycerin on resting systolic pressure, CSF, CVR, and AO2-CSO2 delta were qualitatively similar during rapid atrial pacing, the onset of chest pain and ischemic ECG changes occurred at a lower heart rate following dipyridamole (136 +/- 5 beats/min) than following nitroglycerin (149 +/- 6 beats/min, p less than 0.01). However, maximal double product and myocardial oxygen consumption achieved during pacing were similar following both dipyridamole and nitroglycerin and were less than control pacing values. Coronary dilatation following dipyridamole appears to reduce tolerance to pacing-induced ischemia probably by maldistribution of coronary flow away from ischemic myocardium. Nitroglycerin differs from dipyridamole by improving tolerance to pacing; however, this difference appears to be due to systemic vasodilator effects of nitroglycerin rather than to enhancement of flow to ischemic myocardium.
SCCRO Expression Correlates With Invasive Progression in Bronchioloalveolar Carcinoma

Abstract Background Overexpression of squamous cell carcinoma–related oncogene (SCCRO) is associated with invasive progression and poor outcomes in non–small cell lung cancer. We assessed the role of SCCRO as a tumor marker in bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC), a subtype of adenocarcinoma exhibiting evidence of histologic tumor progression. We hypothesized that SCCRO expression would correlate with invasive tumor phenotypes and worse survival in BAC. Methods We classified 150 tumors as pure BAC, BAC with focal invasion, or adenocarcinoma with BAC features. A tissue microarray was constructed from areas of benign lung, BAC, and invasive adenocarcinoma in these tumors. Squamous cell carcinoma–related oncogene expression was graded by immunohistochemistry from 0 to 3 (absent, low, moderate, or high), with positive SCCRO phenotype defined as grade 3. Squamous cell carcinoma–related oncogene specificity was determined by Wilcoxon rank test and area under the receiver-operator curve, survival by the Kaplan-Meier method, and correlation with prognostic factors by log-rank test. Results Of the 86.0% (129 of 150) of specimens suitable for analysis, positive SCCRO phenotype was seen in 16.3% (21 of 129) and was 100.0% specific for tumor versus benign tissue (area under receiver-operator curve, 0.92). Positive SCCRO phenotype was greater in tumors with increasing degrees of invasive histologic type (7.0% pure BAC, 13.6% BAC with focal invasion, and 28.6% adenocarcinoma with BAC features; p = 0.02). Low-level SCCRO expression was present in 83.9% (99 of 118) of benign tissues and correlated with tobacco use and poor survival ( p = 0.05). Conclusions Squamous cell carcinoma–related oncogene is a marker of invasive tumor progression in BAC. Low-level expression in adjacent benign lung predicts worse survival, and may represent field cancerization or host–tumor effects.
Molt cycle regulation of nucleotide pyrophosphatase in the hepatopancreas of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun.

Abstract 1. 1. Three substrate specific nucleotide pyrophosphatases are reported in 12,000 g supernatants obtained from the hepatopancreas of the blue crab. 2. 2. The activity of UDPG, UDPGA and UDPNAG nucleotide pyrophosphatase is related to the stage of the molt cycle of the blue crab. UDPGA nucleotide pyrophosphatase rates are relatively low in all stages of the molt cycle except D1–2. 3. 3. Crude eyestalk extract preparations from D3–4 crabs cause a decrease in UDPG nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity and an increase in UDPGA nucleotide pyrophosphatase activity in hepatopancreas enzyme preparations from B-stage crabs. 4. 4. A discussion of the possible relationship of these three enzymes to molt cycle activity is presented.
Isomer combinatorics for acyclic conjugated polyenes: enumeration and beyond

A combinatorial approach to fully conjugated acyclic polyenes (CNHN+2) is considered with a view to the extension of standard enumeration techniques to treat a widened range of chemically interesting features. As a first step, enumerations are made respecting: placement of single and double bonds, the occurrence of cis/trans isomers, and the degree (and type) of “radicality” of such conjugated networks. As a further extension, several structural (graph-theoretic) invariants averaged over various types of isomer classes and sub-classes are made, and then these invariants are utilized to estimate several physicochemical properties averaged over these same classes or sub-classes. The properties currently so considered are heats of formation, indices of refraction, and magnetic susceptibilities. Finally, the asymptotic behaviors of isomer counts and isomer properties in the many-atom limit is elaborated.
Nitrosation by stimulated macrophages. Inhibitors, enhancers and substrates

Macrophages and their immortalized cell lines can be activated to form nitrite and nitrate via oxidation of arginine and this is accompanied by the formation of N-nitroso compounds. The mechanism of nitrosamine formation has been investigated through the use of compounds which are known either to inhibit or enhance acid-catalyzed nitrosation. The range of nitrogen acceptors has been expanded to include ureas as well as amines of varying pKa and structure. The results are consistent with a mechanism in which NO is oxidized to N2O3 and N2O4, which are capable of nitrosating amines, but not ureas or amides, at neutral pH. This is in agreement with a recent observation that macrophage cell-free extracts can oxidize arginine to NO. The effect of ascorbic acid on intact activated macrophages is complex since nitrite formation is enhanced over a very wide range of ascorbate concentrations (5-500 microM) while nitrosation is inhibited at ascorbate concentrations greater than 50 microM.
Landmark routing in ad hoc networks with mobile backbones

A mobile ad hoc network is usually assumed to be homogeneous, where each mobile node shares the same radio capacity. However, a homogeneous ad hoc network suffers from poor scalability. Recent research has demonstrated its performance bottleneck through both theoretical analysis and simulation experiments and testbed measurements. This is further exacerbated by heavy routing overhead of ad hoc routing protocols when the network size is large. In this paper, we present a design methodology to build a hierarchical large-scale ad hoc network using different types of radio capabilities at different layers. In such a structure, nodes are first dynamically grouped into multi-hop clusters. Each group elects a cluster-head to be a backbone node (BN). Then higher-level links are established to connect the BNs into a backbone network. Following this method recursively, a multilevel hierarchical network can be established. Three critical issues are addressed in this paper. We first analyze the optimal number of BNs for a layer in theory. Then, we propose a stable and light overhead clustering scheme to deploy the BNs. Finally landmark ad hoc routing (LANMAR) is extended to operate the physical hierarchy efficiently. We show that the hierarchical LANMAR can incorporate and efficiently utilize backbone links to reach remote destinations (thus reducing the hop distance). Simulation results using GloMoSim confirm that our proposed schemes achieve good performance.
Philosophy of Education as an accidental trickle

This paper recalls a Thomistic dictum quidquid recipitur ad modum recipietis recipitur to the effect that, somewhat, everything is received in the manner of the recipient, and which, for the purposes of the paper shall be rendered to signify that the operations of any thing - en, entis - cannot exceed its nature, and at the level of particulars would mean that the capabilities of any thing cannot exceed those of its essence. Thus, the dictum only served as a reminder to the fact that we know as much of reality as our predispositions allow, and once we have had our "fill," its effect cannot possibly exceed it as cause. Based on an Aristotelean-Thomistic-Gilsonean philosophical framework, and employing an anecdotic, hypothetical quasi scenario-building methodology to visit learning and teaching of philosophy of education and the career-building in the field at our universities, it attempts, through again, a quasi Socratic method, to intimate that the effects cannot possibly exceed their causes, and so, in Africa and in the world at large, philosophy of education will yield as much progress as that of its teachers as its causes and principles. Key words : Philosophy, education, Thomas, Africa, Kenya, university
Type I interferons: key players in normal skin and select cutaneous malignancies.

Interferons (IFNs) are a family of naturally existing glycoproteins known for their antiviral activity and their ability to influence the behavior of normal and transformed cell types. Type I Interferons include IFN-α and IFN-β. Currently, IFN-α has numerous approved antitumor applications, including malignant melanoma, in which IFN-α has been shown to increase relapse free survival. Moreover, IFN-α has been successfully used in the intralesional treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). In spite of these promising clinical results; however, there exists a paucity of knowledge on the precise anti-tumor action of IFN-α/β at the cellular and molecular levels in cutaneous malignancies such as SCC, BCC, and melanoma. This review summarizes current knowledge on the extent to which Type I IFN influences proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immune function in normal skin, cutaneous SCC, BCC, and melanoma.
Ontogenetic shifts in competitive interactions and intra‐guild predation between two wolf spider species

Abstract. 1. The wolf spiders (Araneae: Lycosidae) Hogna helluo (Walckenaer) and Pardosa milvina Hentz co-occur in soybean fields of south-west Ohio, U.S.A. As adults, Hogna is the larger species and has the competitive advantage in most interactions; due to differing phenologies, however, their size-classes frequently overlap and as such there is potential for shifts in competitive ability and intra-guild predation. The hypothesis that competitive interactions and intra-guild predation will favour Pardosa when Pardosa is similar-sized, or has a size advantage over Hogna, was tested in laboratory and field experiments. 2. Studies in laboratory arenas, pairing similar-sized individuals of these species and Hogna spiderlings with larger spiders of both species, revealed that intra-guild predation seldom occurs with similar-sized Hogna and Pardosa, however Pardosa will consume small Hogna individuals in laboratory arenas. 3. Field experiments involved stocking high densities (50 m–2) of Pardosa and Hogna in enclosures placed in soybean fields. In experiments with spiders of similar size, no interspecific effects were uncovered, but an intraspecific effect was found for Pardosa as its survival and weight gain were lower in the presence of more conspecifics. Large Hogna or Pardosa had no effect on the survival or weight gain of Hogna spiderlings. 4. Although Hogna is a better competitor as an adult, it has no advantage over Pardosa when their size-classes overlap, and Pardosa effects on Hogna may be inconsequential under field conditions. Therefore, the co-existence of these species is fostered by the fact that there are few negative interspecific interactions during their ontogeny.
A closed-cycle 1 K refrigeration cryostat

Abstract A 1 K closed-cycle cryostat has been developed to provide continuous cooling to a photon detector below 2 K. A two-stage 4 K pulse tube cryocooler is used to liquefy evacuated vapor from a 1 K pumping port to form a closed-cycle refrigeration loop. A 1 K instrumentation chamber, attached to the 1 K cooling station, is designed to operate with helium inside and provide more uniform cooling. The design of the cryostat has no direct mechanical contact between the pulse tube cryocooler heat exchangers and the 1 K cooling station resulting in almost no vibration transfer to instrumentation chamber. The cryostat can reach a no-load temperature of 1.62 K and provide 250 mW cooling power at 1.84 K.
Thioredoxin reductase from rat liver.

The thioredoxin system was first identified in microorganisms where it participates in redox reactions, such as ribonucleotide reduction, transferring electrons from NADPH to the product formed. It contains two protein components, thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase. A similar hydrogen transport system has now been demonstrated in rat liver. Using the liver thioredoxin previously isolated as a means of assaying thioredoxin reductase this enzyme has now been purified from the same source. A 100-fold-purification of thioredoxin reductase was obtained by treatment at pH 5 and chromatography on Sephadex and on DEAE-cellulose. Thioredoxin reductase was found to be specific for NADPH. Ribonucleotide reductase, thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase constitute a system necessary for the biosynthesis of deoxyribonucleotides. During liver regeneration, the level of ribonucleotide reductase was increased approximately 20-fold. In contrast, the levels of thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase remained constant.
Volcanology: Look up for magma insights

Volcanic plumes can be hazardous to aircraft. A correlation between plume height and ground deformation during an eruption of Grimsvotn Volcano, Iceland, allows us to peer into the properties of the magma chamber and may improve eruption forecasts.