cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sequence-specific interactions between cellular DNA-binding proteins and the adenovirus origin of DNA replication

The adenovirus origin of DNA replication contains three functionally distinct sequence domains (A, B, and C) that are essential for initiation of DNA synthesis. Previous studies have shown that domain B contains the recognition site for nuclear factor I (NF-I), a cellular protein that is required for optimal initiation. In the studies reported here, we used highly purified NF-I, prepared by DNA recognition site affinity chromatography (P. J. Rosenfeld and T. J. Kelly, Jr., J. Biol. Chem. 261:1398-1408, 1986), to investigate the cellular protein requirements for initiation of viral DNA replication. Our data demonstrate that while NF-I is essential for efficient initiation in vitro, other cellular factors are required as well. A fraction derived from HeLa cell nuclear extract (BR-FT fraction) was shown to contain all the additional cellular proteins required for the complete reconstitution of the initiation reaction. Analysis of this complementing fraction by a gel electrophoresis DNA-binding assay revealed the presence of two site-specific DNA-binding proteins, ORP-A and ORP-C, that recognized sequences in domains A and C, respectively, of the viral origin. Both proteins were purified by DNA recognition site affinity chromatography, and the boundaries of their binding sites were defined by DNase I footprint analysis. Additional characterization of the recognition sequences of ORP-A, NF-I, and ORP-C was accomplished by determining the affinity of the proteins for viral origins containing deletion and base substitution mutations. ORP-C recognized a sequence between nucleotides 41 and 51 of the adenovirus genome, and analysis of mutant origins indicated that efficient initiation of replication is dependent on the presence of a high-affinity ORP-C-binding site. The ORP-A recognition site was localized to the first 12 base pairs of the viral genome within the minimal origin of replication. These data provide evidence that the initiation of adenovirus DNA replication involves multiple protein-DNA interactions at the origin.
A Characterization of Graphs with No Octahedron Minor

It is proved that a graph does not contain an octahedron minor if and only if it is constructed from {K1,K2,K3,K4}[{C 2 2n 1 : n � 3} and five other internally 4-connected graphs by 0-, 1-, 2-, and 3-sums.
mTOR and MEK1/2 inhibition differentially modulate tumor growth and the immune microenvironment in syngeneic models of oral cavity cancer

We investigated the effects of mTOR and MEK1/2 inhibition on tumor growth and the tumor microenvironment in immunogenic and poorly immunogenic models of murine oral cancer. In vitro, rapamycin and PD901 inhibited signaling through expected downstream targets, but only PD901 reduced viability and altered function of MOC cells. Following transplantation of MOC cells into immune-competent mice, effects on both cancer and infiltrating immune cells were characterized following rapamycin and/or PD901 treatment for 21 days. In vivo, both rapamycin and PD901 inhibition reduced primary growth of established MOC tumors on treatment. Following withdrawal of PD901, rapid rebound of tumor growth limited survival, whereas durable tumor control was observed following rapamycin treatment in immunogenic MOC1 tumors despite more robust inhibition of oncogenic signaling by PD901. Characterization of the immune microenvironment revealed diminished infiltration and activation of antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells and other immune cells following PD901 but not rapamycin in immunogenic tumors. Subsequent in vitro T-cell assays validated robust inhibition of T-cell expansion and activation following MEK inhibition compared to mTOR inhibition. CD8 cell depletion abrogated rapamycin-induced primary tumor growth inhibition in MOC1 mice. These data have critical implications in the design of combination targeted and immune therapies in oral cancer.
Phosphatidylserine decarboxylase: Analysis of its action towards unsaturated and saturated phosphatidylserine and the effect of triton X-100 on activity

Abstract The membrane-bound enzyme phosphatidylserine decarboxylase ( Tetrahymena pyriformis ) was found to have activity both in a crude, particulate form and when it is in a soluble form in the presence of the nonionic surfactant Triton X-100. This surfactant has routinely been included in the assay of phosphatidylserine decarboxylases from all sources; its effect on the activity of the Tetrahymena enzyme has now been characterized and a detailed consideration of the functioning of this surfactant in the assay of this membrane-bound enzyme is presented. The activity of the enzyme towards natural phosphatidylserine is found to be greater than towards saturated phosphatidylserine, both with and without Triton present; this finding is considered in terms of the effect of the thermotropic phase transition of the saturated material on the physical state of the phospholipid, rather than simply in terms of the specificity of the enzyme for phosphatidylserine containing unsaturated fatty acid groups. At high molar ratios of Triton to phospholipid, the activity of the enzyme is dramatically decreased. The decreased activity of the enzyme toward unsaturated Phosphatidylserine is considered in terms of a surface dilution model and the greatly diminished activity towards the saturated analogue is suggested to be the result of lipid phase separation.
RGS Proteins Determine Signaling Specificity of Gq-coupled Receptors

Regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins accelerate GTP hydrolysis by Galpha subunits, thereby attenuating signaling. RGS4 is a GTPase-activating protein for Gi and Gq class alpha subunits. In the present study, we used knockouts of Gq class genes in mice to evaluate the potency and selectivity of RGS4 in modulating Ca2+ signaling transduced by different Gq-coupled receptors. RGS4 inhibited phospholipase C activity and Ca2+ signaling in a receptor-selective manner in both permeabilized cells and cells dialyzed with RGS4 through a patch pipette. Receptor-dependent inhibition of Ca2+ signaling by RGS4 was observed in acini prepared from the rat and mouse pancreas. The response of mouse pancreatic acini to carbachol was about 4- and 33-fold more sensitive to RGS4 than that of bombesin and cholecystokinin (CCK), respectively. RGS1 and RGS16 were also potent inhibitors of Gq-dependent Ca2+ signaling and acted in a receptor-selective manner. RGS1 showed approximately 1000-fold higher potency in inhibiting carbachol than CCK-dependent signaling. RGS16 was as effective as RGS1 in inhibiting carbachol-dependent signaling but only partially inhibited the response to CCK. By contrast, RGS2 inhibited the response to carbachol and CCK with equal potency. The same pattern of receptor-selective inhibition by RGS4 was observed in acinar cells from wild type and several single and double Gq class knockout mice. Thus, these receptors appear to couple Gq class alpha subunit isotypes equally. Difference in receptor selectivity of RGS proteins action indicates that regulatory specificity is conferred by interaction of RGS proteins with receptor complexes.
TACNET: Mobile ad hoc Secure Communications Network

On the road and during tactical maneuvers, the Blue Force must maintain situational awareness to effectively react and respond. The Tactical Network, or TacNet, is a mobile ad hoc communications network developed by Sandia National Laboratories to provide Blue Force personnel with secure access to critical data, such as real-time maps of resource positions. During development of the system, the Sandia team addressed a variety of issues, including the need for (a) mobile communications without fixed infrastructure and (b) security features, e.g., an access control list. The team considered commercial-off-the-shelf products, but determined that a semi-customized system would better suit its requirements. The final product, TacNet, a field-tested and proven mobile network, incorporates two major systems: (1) an In-Vehicle System, including a graphical user interface, and (2) a Dismounted Solution, also known as Tracker. TacNet employs a line-of-sight mesh radio network, which is self-forming, self-healing, and multi-hopping. Both the In- Vehicle and Tracker systems can be applied in combination or separately to a variety of purposes, including real-time training analysis, targeting capability, and friend or foe identification. This paper describes the development process for TacNet and its future potential, such as extending line-of-sight through unmanned aerial vehicles.
Exsolution enthalpy of water from silicate liquids

Abstract Because water dissolves in silicate melts as at least two species, H2O molecules and OH groups, the exsolution (evaporation) enthalpy of the H2O component from a silicate melt depends on species proportions, which in turn depends on H2O pressure. In this short communication, a formal analysis of the exsolution enthalpy of water from a silicate melt is presented, taking into account of the role of speciation. The exsolution enthalpy from a rhyolitic melt at 850°C is found to increase with pressure at ≤100 bar and this increase is mostly caused by the speciation reaction. Sahagian and Proussevitch [Sahagian, D.L., Proussevitch, A.A., 1996. Thermal effects of magma degassing. J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res. 74, 19–38] also found an increase of the exsolution enthalpy with pressure up to 20 bar for an albitic melt. However, the rate of increase determined from this work is an order of magnitude less than that determined by Sahagian and Proussevitch. It is concluded that the strong pressure dependence of the exsolution enthalpy at low pressures they inferred is probably an artifact of their treatment. The method presented here is general and can be applied to other multi-species components.
11 CHARACTERIZATION OF NOVEL HIGH AFFINITY PURINE BASE TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN S49 CELLS

Mutant cell lines have been isolated from wild type S49 cells that possess a novel high affinity purine base transport system that is not found in parental cells or any other mammalian cell line. These cells are capable of transporting purine bases at a rate 10 to 30-fold greater than wild type cells. The Km value of this novel nucleobase transporter for purine bases is exceptionally low, approximately 10-100 micromolar. The high affinity transporter does not recognize nucleosides or pyrimidine nucleobases and can be distinguished from other previously described nucleobase transporter in mammalian cells on the basis of its high affinity for ligands and its sensitivity to inhibition by DPA and NBMPR. That the expression of this high affinity purine base transport system is independent of the NBMPR- and DPA-sensitive nucleoside transport system has been demonstrated by the insertion of the high affinity nucleobase transport mutation into nucleoside transport-deficient S49 cells. Two classes of high affinity purine base transport mutants were generated that can be differenfiated on the basis of their substrate specificities, affinities for purine bases, and sensitivities to inhibitors of nucleoside transport. The data suggest that the expression of the high affinity transport probably requires the unmasking or alteration of a specific genetic locus that is silent or different in wild type cells.
Systems engineering and systems management for reengineering

Abstract This article presents an overview and perspective on systems engineering and systems management for reengineering and related approaches to organizational and technology revitalization, especially for efforts that involve information technology and software engineering. There are at least three types of reengineering that can be considered: reengineering at the levels of product, process, and systems management. We claim that all three are needed, and an approach at one level only may not be satisfactory. Support for this claim is provided.
Hypoxia/ischemia induces dephosphorylation of rat brain neuromodulin/GAP-43 in vivo.

The in vivo state of phosphorylation and the modification of two Cys residues of neuromodulin/ GAP-43 (Nm) were analyzed by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ES-MS). The protein was purified from rat brain with homogenization buffer containing 1% Nonidet P-40, protease inhibitors, protein phosphatase inhibitors, and sulfhydryl reagent, 4-vinylpyridine. Nm was purified by HPLC and ion-exchange chromatography, and the various fractions were identified by ES-MS as unphosphorylated and mono-, di-, tri-, and tetraphosphorylated species. All of these Nm species contained 2 mol of added 4-vinylpyridine per mol of Nm, suggesting that the two Cys residues are in the reduced form in the brain. In vivo, the majority of Nm is in the phosphorylated form (∼80%), of which the levels of the mono- and diphospho forms are higher than those of the tri- and tetraphospho species. Four in vivo phosphorylation sites, Ser 41 , Thr 95 , Ser 142 , and Thr 172 , were identified by amino acid sequencing and tandem ES-MS of the peptides derived from Lys-C endoproteinase digestion. Among these sites, only Ser 41 is a known target of PKC, whereas the kinases responsible for the phosphorylation of the other three novel sites are unknown. Hypoxia/ischemia caused a preferential dephosphorylation of Ser 41 and Thr 172 , whereas Thr 95 is the least susceptible to dephosphorylation.
A cognitive signal for the proactive timing of action in macaque LIP

Natural movements often occur without any immediate external event to cause them. In contrast to reactive movements, which are directly triggered by external cues, it is less clear how these proactive actions are initiated or when they will be made. We found that single neurons in the macaque's lateral intraparietal area (LIP) exhibit gradual firing rate elevations that reach a consistent value--which may correspond to a threshold--at the time of proactive, but not reactive, arm movements. This activity differs from sensory- and motor-related activity recorded in nearby cortical areas and could provide an internal trigger for action when abrupt external triggers in the visual input are unavailable.
Are modern imaging techniques over diagnosing ureteropelvic junction obstruction

Since the widespread use of real-time ultrasonography in the early 1980s, ureteropelvic junction obstruction has been diagnosed at earlier ages and prenatally on a presumptive basis. However, substantial controversy exists over the diagnosis and treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction. We conducted an epidemiological study to determine if modern imaging techniques are leading to the over diagnosis of ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Records were collected retrospectively from 3 hospitals serving 2 adjacent counties to determine the number of pyeloplasties performed in 1970 to 1992. The 2 university hospitals and 1 large private hospital provide a wide variety of services and choice of urologists, and so it was assumed that most patients requiring pyeloplasty in the area would be captured. Of the 555 pyeloplasties 240 (43%) were performed on children 12 years old or younger. Logistic regression analysis revealed an overall increase of pyeloplasties per year of 56.8% in 23 years, which was not markedly different from the population growth in the area in the same period (49.3%). A statistically significant increase in the number of pyeloplasties performed in the first year of life was noted. This trend appeared to begin in 1981: 8 pyeloplasties were performed in the first year of life between 1970 and 1980 compared to 91 between 1981 and 1992. Pyeloplasties in children 1 to 6 years old increased with time at a much lower rate that was not statistically significant and the number of pyeloplasties decreased in those 7 to 12 years old. Therefore, it appears that modern imaging techniques are not leading to an over diagnosis of ureteropelvic junction obstruction but to detection of the disease at an earlier age.
Smooth pursuit eye movement differences between familial and non-familial schizophrenia

Disrupted smooth pursuit eye tracking characterizes a greater proportion of individuals with schizophrenia than in the normal population. The finding of a similar increased incidence of eye tracking abnormality in first degree relatives of schizophrenics implicates this disorder as a potential biological marker for schizophrenia. To test the assumption that the eye tracking dysfunction of schizophrenics is genetically related, left and right smooth pursuit gain and phase shift were compared between 20 schizophrenics with a family history of schizophrenia or schizophrenia-related disorders, 18 schizophrenics without a family history, as well as for 18 normal controls. Subjects tracked pendular targets on an LED light bar moving at frequencies of 0.2 and 0.7 Hz. Horizontal eye movements were recorded using DC-electro-oculography. Results indicate that schizophrenics with a positive family history had significantly reduced right pursuit gain compared with controls, while right gain for negative family history schizophrenics did not differ from either group. Schizophrenic subjects also were administered neuropsychological tests. Linear regression by groups analyses reveal that neuropsychological measures significantly predicted right gain to slower targets (0.2 Hz) for the positive family history schizophrenics, but not for negative family history schizophrenics.
MAD (Multiagent Delivery) Nanolayer: Delivering Multiple Therapeutics from Hierarchically Assembled Surface Coatings†

We present hydrolytically degradable polymeric multilayer films that can codeliver multiple therapeutics of differing chemical characteristics (charged biomacromolecules and neutral hydrophobic small molecules) from a surface. This multiagent-delivery (MAD) nanolayer system integrates the hydrolytically degradable poly(β-amino ester) as a structural component to control the degradation of the multilayers to release active therapeutic macromolecules as well as hydrophobic drugs imbedded within amphiphilic block copolymer micellar carriers within layer-by-layer (LbL) films, which would otherwise be difficult to include within the multilayers. By varying the anionic therapeutic agents (heparin and dextran sulfate) within the multilayer, we examine how different structural components can be used to control the release kinetics of multiple therapeutics from MAD nanolayers. Controlled release profiles and the in vitro efficacy of the MAD nanolayers in suppressing the growth of human smooth muscle cell lines wer...
LEVEL OF BELIEF IN AFTERLIFE AND FOUR CATEGORIES OF FEAR OF DEATH IN A SAMPLE OF 60+-YEAR-OLDS

Studies investigating a correlation between fear of death and belief in afterlife have reported equivocal results (Martin & Wrightsman, 1964; Lester, 1967). The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between a non-religious belief in afterlife measure and four categories of fear of death in a sample of 60+ year olds. Subjects were contacted through senior centers, social service agencies, and private contact. The sample included 30 females and 10 males, ranging in age from 60 to 82 yr. (M.,. = 67.5) and coming from a middle to upp-r socioeconomic level. Subjects completed the Belief in Afterlife Scale (Osarchuk & Tatz, 1973) and the Collett-Lester Fear of Death Scale (Collett & Lester, 1969), which consists of four subscales: Fear of Death of Self, Fear of Death of Others, Fear of Dying of Self, and Fear of Dying of Others. Product-moment correlations were computed between scores on the Belief in Afterlife Scale and each of the four subscales of the Collect-Lester Fear of Death Scale. No significant correlation was found between level of belief in afterlife and Fear of Death of Self (r = -.08), Fear of Dying of Self (r = .15), or Fear of Dying of Others (r = .05). A significant positive correlation was found between level of belief in afterlife and Fear of Death of Others (r = .44, p < .01). The Fear of Death of Others, of all of the four subscales of the Collett-Lester scale, represents the most concrete manifestation of death. An individual cannot actually experience his or her own death but can experience the loss of another. The older mcmbers of our society, the group sampled here, experience proportionately more deaths of others than do younger age groups. To interpret from the results of this study that the more an individual fears the loss of others the more likely that person is to formulate a higher level of belief in life after death would lend support to Feifel's (1959) belief thar many individuals who strongly fear death may resort to religious values to cope with this fear. This interpretation could gain support from the study by Osarchuk and Tatz (1973), in which viewing a death-threat movie apparently affected one group of subjects such that they elevated their reported Belief in Afterlife Scale scores significantly. The death of another (especially a significant other) can be considered as a personal "death-threat" to an individual. Replications using larger samples and diverse age groups would help clarify these results.
Full potential solutions of three-dimensional supersonic flows

A nonlinear aerodynamic analysis technique based on the full potential equation in conservative form has been enhanced to allow analysis of more complex geometric configurations. Solution procedures for the equations do not require any specific form of geometry or physical grid system. This results in the capability to analyze very complex geometries easily, provided the posed problem lies within the isentropic restrictions of the full potential theory. To treat embedded subsonic flow, characteristic signal propagation theory is used to monitor the type-dependent flow and a conservative switching scheme is employed to transition from the supersonic marching algorithm to a subsonic relaxation procedure and vice versa. An implicit approximate factorization scheme is used to solve the finite difference equations. These modifications now permit analysis of fully three-dimensional flowfields including the interference effects due to lifting surface wakes. Results are presented showing very good correlations with experimental surface pressure data and aerodynamic force data at both design and off-design operating points. Configurations examined include several waverider concepts, an arrow wing-body with wake, and a fighter forebody-canard configuration.
Quantum theory of correlation functions for liquid metals and normal liquids in the zero sound wave range

Abstract The correlation functions of liquid metals and normal liquids in the zero sound wave range are formulated using the quantum-mechanical two-time Green function method, and the classical formula of Bogolyubov-Sadovnikov and Nelkin-Ranganathan for normal liquids is extended to the quantum-mechanical case. The formula obtained clarifies the relation between the coherent-correlation function and the self-correlation function of a free gas, and becomes the quantum-mechanical extension of Kerr's classical formula for the relation. The effective potential obtained classically by Percus and Zwanzig from the direct correlation function is extended to the quantum-mechanical case, and the relation between the effective potential and S ( k, E ) is obtained. The effective potential between ions of liquid metals is formulated by taking into account the contribution from the conduction electrons. And the formula obtained by March is improved by taking into account the electron correlation effect together with the exchange interaction.
Variability in experimental surgical data: methods for its analysis and control.

Abstract A statistical technique used to analyze and control variability in experimental data is illustrated through examples of its application to several problems in surgical research. The advantages of analysis of variance include (1) statistical tests among several sets of measurements, (2) independent evaluation of simultaneously manipulated variables, (3) reduction of error variability, (4) elimination of irrelevant differences among individuals, (5) powerful and independent tests of individual comparisons in a larger experiment, (6) and a general form of regression analysis. The technique is advocated as a systematic guide to efficient and economical experimentation.
A comparison between atomic concentration profiles and defect density profiles in GaAs annealed after implantation with beryllium

Semi-insulating chromium-doped GaAs was implanted with 100 keV Be ions to fluences of 5 × 1013 and 1 × 1015 ions/cm2. Specimens were annealed at 800°C for thirty minutes. Beryllium atomic concentration profiles, as determined by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), were compared to the defect density profiles obtained from transmission electron stereomicroscopy techniques for the annealed samples. A major redistribution of Be was observed compared to the as-implanted distribution after annealing at the higher fluence, whereas only a slight redistribution of Be occurred for the lower fluence. A major difference in the defect density profiles was observed with the fluences used for this study in the region where the annealed specimens were compared. The distribution of defects throughout the implanted-annealed layer was examined in GaAs annealed after implantation with the higher fluence using sectioned specimens. The relationships between the atomic Be concentration profile, the defect density profile, and the distribution of some specific defects were compared in these sectioned layers. The distribution and size of defects appear to be directly influenced by the Be concentration and its associated implantation induced damage.
Histone H3 tail peptides and poly(ethylenimine) have synergistic effects for gene delivery.

This goal of this work was to explore histone H3 tail peptides containing transcriptionally activating modifications for their potential as gene delivery materials. We have found that these H3 tail peptides, in combination with the cationic polymer poly(ethylenimine) (PEI), can effectively bind and protect plasmid DNA. The H3/PEI hybrid polyplexes were found to transfect a substantially larger number of CHO-K1 cells in vitro compared to both polyplexes that were formed with only the H3 peptides and those that were formed with only PEI at the same total charge ratio; however, transfection was similarly high for polyplexes both with and without transcriptionally activating modifications. Transfections with the endolysosomal inhibitors chloroquine and bafilomycin A1 indicated that the H3/PEI hybrid polyplexes exhibited slower uptake and a reduced dependence on endocytic pathways that trafficked to the lysosome, indicating a potentially enhanced reliance on caveolar uptake for efficient gene transfer. In addi...
Cancer prevention in the dental practice: oral cancer screening and tobacco cessation advice.

Objectives In this paper we describe the proportion of US adults who report receiving oral cancer screening and tobacco cessation counseling and assistance from dentists and other health professionals. Methods Data from the 1992 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Cancer Control Supplement, a nationally representative sample of 12,035 adults 18 years of age and older, are analyzed. Results In 1992, less than 10 percent of adults reported oral cancer screening by a dentist or hygienist within the past three years. White adults (10.1%, 95% CI = 9.3, 10.9) reported an oral cancer screening three times more frequently than black (3.2%, 95% CI = 1.9, 4.5) or Hispanic (3.4%, 95% CI = 2.1, 4.7) adults. About half of adult current smokers had seen a dentist within 12 months, and of those only 24.1 percent (95% CI = 21.7, 26.5) had been advised to quit smoking. Heavy smokers (two or more packs a day) were more likely to have been advised to quit than light (pack or less per day) or occasional smokers. A similar proportion (24.3%, 95% CI = 17.6, 31.0) of white adult men who reported using smokeless tobacco products had been told by a dentist to quit using tobacco. Conclusions Results from this population-based survey indicate that cancer screening and tobacco cessation advice are underutilized in the dental practice. Increased patient awareness and implementation of screening and tobacco cessation interventions could improve oral cancer incidence and mortality and have a public health benefit for other tobacco-related morbidity and mortality as well.
Hydrothermal Ion Exchange on Submillimeter-Size Single Crystals of a New Iron(III) Phosphate

Promising ion-transport properties of a newly discovered quaternary compound Cs5-xK4+xFe7(PO4)10 (x = 0.35) were revealed by successful ion exchange directly on single crystals and conventional single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Mild hydrothermal conditions in 1 M ANO3 (A = Li−Cs) solutions at 200 °C were employed. Ion-transport events and the resulting ion distribution in interconnected channels are discussed.
Impact of clothing on exercise in the heat

Clothing targeting the exercise enthusiast has been advertised to keep individuals drier, cooler, and more comfortable during exercise in the heat. The marketing of such clothing has increased dramatically within the last decade. In hot environments, clothing acts as a barrier to thermal balance by inhibiting evaporative and convective cooling. Clothing construction, fit, and fabric are all critical influences on the amount of sweat absorbed from the skin and transported throughout the clothing. The majority of the research analyzing advertised synthetic fabrics has shown no difference in thermoregulation or clothing comfort while exercising in those fabrics in the heat compared to natural fabrics. The influence of clothing construction on thermal balance has received minimal research in regards to exercise. Further research is needed in this area, since it is poorly understood from ecologically valid human testing. Future research should also consider examining the effects of clothing characteristics on comfort during exercise and recovery. The incorporation of protocols that more closely mirror sporting and recreational activity lasting >60 min as well as simulated work-related protocols lasting >120 min is warranted.
ClC-2 chloride secretion mediates prostaglandin-induced recovery of barrier function in ischemia-injured porcine ileum.

Background & Aims Ischemia results in the breakdown of the intestinal barrier, predisposing patients to sepsis and multiple organ failure. Prostaglandins play a critical role in mediating recovery of barrier function in ischemia-injured intestine through a mechanism involving stimulation of Cl− secretion. In the present study, we investigated the contributory role of individual Cl− channels in the recovery of barrier function in ischemia-injured porcine ileum. Methods Ischemia-injured porcine ileal mucosa was mounted in Ussing chambers. Short-circuit current (Isc) and transepithelial resistance (TER) were measured in response to prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and pharmacologic inhibitors of epithelial Cl− channels. Immunoassays were used to assess the expression and localization of ion channels. Results Application of PGE2 to ischemia-injured ileal mucosa stimulated increases in Isc, an indicator of Cl− secretion, that was followed by marked increases in TER, an indicator of barrier function recovery. In vitro studies revealed that although PGE2 induced Cl− secretion via at least 3 distinct secretory pathways, recovery of barrier function was initiated by Cl− secretion via ClC-2 Cl− channels co-expressed with occludin and localized to tight junctions within restituting epithelium. Intravenous administration of furosemide to pigs subjected to 1 hour of ileal ischemia impaired recovery of barrier function, as evidenced by decreased TER and increased mucosal-to-serosal 3H-mannitol flux after a 2-hour reperfusion/recovery period, confirming an important role for Cl− secretory pathways in vivo. Conclusions ClC-2–mediated intestinal Cl− secretion restores TER in ischemia-injured intestine. These data may provide the basis for targeted pharmacologic therapy for diseases associated with impaired barrier function.
Stimulation of phosphoinositide hydrolysis by ibotenic acid in cerebellar neurons via two glutamate receptor subtypes

In primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells, ibotenate produced a dose-dependent biphasic stimulation of phosphoinositide (PI) hydrolysis. The high-affinity component of ibotnate action (EC50 = 100 nM) was characteristic of the metabolotropic glutamate receptor activation. The action of ibotenate, like that of quisqualate, was inhibited by pretreatment of granule cells with pertussis toxin, confirming the participation of a guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-binding protein in ibotenate signal transduction. In contrast, the low-affinity component of ibotenate-stimulated PI hydrolysis (EC50 = 100 μM) exhibited the pharmacology of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. This action was inhibited by NMDA receptor antagonists 3-(2-carboxy-piperazin-4-yl)propyl-1-phosphonic acid (CPP) and (+)5-methyl-10, 11-dihydro-5H-dibenzocyclohepten-5, 10-imine maleate (MK-801) and was potentiated by glycine. Moreover it was inhibited by 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX), acting as an antagonist at the positive modulatory site of the NMDA receptor. The low-affinity component of ibotenate-induced Pl hydrolysis correlated well with the ability of ibotenate to induced 45Ca2+ influx, confirming the action of ibotenate at the ionotropic NMDA receptor. Thus, in cerebellar granule cells, ibotenate appears to stimulate Pl hydrolysis by acting at two distinct glutamate receptor subtypes.
Size-related variations in coal fly ash composition as determined using automated scanning electron microscopy

A new preparation method for fly ash samples has enabled characterization of particles as small as 0.1 μm in diameter, an order of magnitude less than the lower size limit of 1 μm previously used for automated scanning electron microscopy. The method involves freeze-drying an ash dispersion on vitreous carbon, which provides a very-low-contrast background. The smallest particles can thus be imaged and then analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry. Individual particles in this extended size range have been characterized using ash produced through bench-scale combustion of Eagle Butte and Eagle Butte-Kentucky No. 9 blend coals. Distinct size-related compositional variations are evident. Supermicron particles consist largely of calcium- and aluminosilicate-rich minerals. The submicron fraction is dominated by sulfate-, phosphate-, and chloride-rich particles, probably formed through condensation. Their unique composition indicates the importance of including these smallest particles in ash characterization.
Economic assessment of lithography strategies for the 22nm technology node

The unavailability of extreme ultra violet lithography (EUVL) for mass production of the 22nm technology node has created a significant void for mainstream lithography solutions. To fill this void, alternate lithography solutions that were earlier deemed to be technically and economically infeasible, such as double patterning technologies (DPT), source mask optimization (SMO), massively parallel direct write ebeam (MEBM) and Interference assisted lithography (Intf), are being proposed, developed and adopted to ensure the timely deployment of the 22nm technology node. While several studies have been undertaken to estimate the lithography process costs for volume production with the aforementioned technologies, these studies have provided only a partial analysis since they have not taken into account the impact on design density and product yield. In this paper we use the cost-per-good-die metric in order to capture process costs as well as yield and design density. We have developed a framework that estimates the lithography cost-per-good-die for SRAM arrays and have applied it to evaluate the economical feasibility of the various lithography strategies under consideration for the 22nm technology node. Specifically, we compare the cost-per-good-die for different 32MB SRAM arrays, each optimized for a different lithography solution. Our analysis shows that the selection of the best lithography strategy is both layer and volume specific. The use of DPT solutions is recommended for Active and Contact layers. The use of Intf is recommended for layers such as Poly, Metals and Vias in the case of low volume products. For medium to high volume products the use of SMO is recommended for Poly, Metals and Vias. This paper provides quantifies of economic benefit of the proposed lithography strategy.
Study on the Clean Production Process of Basic Chromium Sulphate

The pollution of chromium salt industry is increasingly serious in China and becomes a worldwide problem with the rapid development of chromium salt industry. Then a new clean production process with a high recovery rate of chromium and pollution-free was proposed according to the comprehensive summary of existing processes of basic chromium sulphate. Furthermore, a small amount of slag will be discharged in this short process with lower energy consuming. The design concept is also applicable to the preparation of other chromium salts products, which will eliminate the pollution of Cr6+ during the process of chromium salt production and be helpful to the comprehensive utilization of chromium salt. In addition, the guidance of scholar research and the broad application prospects of this work cannot be neglected.
Physicochemical characterization of corticotrophin releasing factor receptor in rat pituitary and brain.

Abstract The physicochemical characteristics of solubilized crosslinked CRF receptor-ligand complexes were studied in the anterior and intermediate pituitary lobes and brain of the rat. In all tissues studied, there was a major labeled band with a molecular weight of 72 ± 3.5 kDa, (n=15), 71 ± 1.3 (n=6), 73 ± 2.5 (n=7) and 75 ± 3.5 (n=7) kDa in the anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary, amygdala and cerebral cortex, respectively. The density of this band was inhibited by CRF analogs, but not by unrelated peptides. This is consistent with the comparable binding properties of CRF in membrane preparations of these tissues. These results suggest that differences in receptor regulation and the reported ability of CRF to stimulate cAMP is due to differences in ligand receptor processing and coupling to membrane transduction systems, rather than to major differences in the binding protein.
Nicotinate white response of monkey sexual skin—a model for atopic reactivity*

Summary Ian Whimster was a noted pathologist, dermatopathologist, comparative pathologist, anatomist, and creative thinker. He drew analogies between animal variability and human disease with regard to pigmentation, epithelial and vascular changes. Iknow that he would have seen the intriguing fact and probable jest in the equivalent reactivity of the monkey sexual skin and the human atopic skin responses.
Environmental Management in Mainland China.

Summary The author was a consultant, assigned from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to provide technical assistance to China's environmental pollution research and control. His assignment in China from September 1 through October 8, 1983 was filled with visits and meetings at key research institutes, universities, and regulatory agencies in the cities of Beijing (Peiking), Shanghai, Hangchow, Zhuji and Zhiaxing (Fig. 1). Trips to famous historical sites and scenic points in and around those cities were squeezed in between the heavily scheduled meetings.
Determination of the dose of histamine causing maximal gastric acid secretion in the pylorus-ligated rat

1. A dose-response curve for histamine phosphate after 2 hr. in the male Sprague-Dawley pylorus-ligated rat is presented. 2. Peak response in both acid output and gastric juice volume occurred with the subcutaneous administration of histamine in a dose of 50 mg./kg. 3. This dose of histamine was without any discernible systemic toxic effect; the gastric mucosa appeared normal macroscopically. 4. Doses of histamine larger than 50 mg./kg. depressed both acid output and gastric juice volume. 5. There was a close association between total acidity (microequivalents per 2 hr.) and gastric juice volume (milliliters per 2 hr.). The correlation coefficient of the regression line was +0.94, which is highly significant (t=7.8104, n=10, p<0.001).
Infrared and reflectron time-of-flight mass spectroscopic analysis of methane (CH4)–carbon monoxide (CO) ices exposed to ionization radiation – toward the formation of carbonyl-bearing molecules in extraterrestrial ices

Ice mixtures of methane and carbon monoxide were exposed to ionizing radiation in the form of energetic electrons at 5.5 K to investigate the formation of carbonyl bearing molecules in extraterrestrial ices. The radiation induced chemical processing of the mixed ices along with their isotopically labeled counterparts was probed online and in situ via infrared spectroscopy (solid state) aided with reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ReTOFMS) coupled to single photon photoionization (PI) at 10.49 eV (gas phase). Deconvolution of the carbonyl absorption feature centered at 1727 cm−1 in the processed ices and subsequent kinetic fitting to the temporal growth of the newly formed species suggests the formation of acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) together with four key classes of carbonyl-bearing molecules: (i) alkyl aldehydes, (ii) alkyl ketones, (iii) α,β-unsaturated ketones/aldehydes and (iv) α,β,γ,δ-unsaturated ketones/α,β-dicarbonyl compounds in keto-enol form. The mechanistical studies indicate that acetaldehyde acts as the key building block of higher aldehydes (i) and ketones (ii) with unsaturated ketones/aldehydes (iii) and/or α,β-dicarbonyl compounds (iv) formed from the latter. Upon sublimation of the newly synthesized molecules, ReTOFMS together with isotopic shifts of the mass-to-charge ratios was exploited to identify eleven product classes containing molecules with up to six carbon atoms, which can be formally derived from C1–C5 hydrocarbons incorporating up to three carbon monoxide building blocks. The classes are (i) saturated aldehydes/ketones, (ii) unsaturated aldehydes/ketones, (iii) doubly unsaturated aldehydes/ketones, (iv) saturated dicarbonyls (aldehydes/ketones), (v) unsaturated dicarbonyls (aldehydes/ketones), (vi) saturated tricarbonyls (aldehydes/ketones), molecules containing (vii) one carbonyl – one alcohol (viii), two carbonyls – one alcohol, (ix) one carbonyl – two alcohol groups along with (x) alcohols and (xi) diols. Reaction pathways to synthesize these classes were derived as well. The present experiments provide clear evidence for the formation of key organic molecules – acetaldehyde, acetone, and potentially vinylalcohol – which are among the 15 carbonyl containing organic molecules detected in the interstellar medium. Despite numerous previous experimental investigations probing the effect of ionizing radiation on simple astrophysical ice representatives, our results suggest that more complex organic molecules can be formed in extraterrestrial ices than previously suggested. An outlook on further identification of individual isomers is also presented.
The Complex Interstellar Na I Absorption toward h and χ Persei

Recent high spatial and spectral resolution investigations of the diffuse interstellar medium (ISM) have found significant evidence for small-scale variations in the interstellar gas on scales ≤1 pc. To better understand the nature of small-scale variations in the ISM, we have used the Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO) WIYN Hydra multiobject spectrograph, which has a mapping advantage over the single-axis, single-scale limitations of studies using high proper motion stars and binary stars, to obtain moderate-resolution (~12 km s–1) interstellar Na i D absorption spectra of 172 stars toward the double open cluster h and χ Persei. All of the sight lines toward the 150 stars with spectra that reveal absorption from the Perseus spiral arm show different interstellar Na i D absorption profiles in the Perseus arm gas. Additionally, we have utilized the KPNO coude feed spectrograph to obtain high-resolution (~3 km s–1) interstellar Na i D absorption spectra of 24 of the brighter stars toward h and χ Per. These spectra reveal an even greater complexity in the interstellar Na i D absorption in the Perseus arm gas and show individual components changing in number, velocity, and strength from sight line to sight line. If each of these individual velocity components represents an isolated cloud, then it would appear that the ISM of the Perseus arm gas consists of many small clouds. Although the absorption profiles vary even on the smallest scales probed by these high-resolution data (~30'', ~0.35 pc), our analysis reveals that some interstellar Na i D absorption components from sight line to sight line are related, implying that the ISM toward h and χ Per is probably composed of sheets of gas in which we detect variations due to differences in the local physical conditions of the gas.
Determination of hexosamines by gas-liquid chromatography.

Abstract Gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) has provided a powerful technique for the analysis of several types of compounds, e.g., steroids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates. Since GLC of free carbohydrates is limited because of low volatility of the compounds, several volatile derivatives-methyl, ethyl, and trimethylsilyl (TMS)—have been used in GLC analysis (1–3). Of the several derivatives, TMS derivatives (because of rapidity of formation with simple experimental procedures (4, 5)) have been found to be most useful in analysis of carbohydrates. Although most of the neutral monosaccharides, certain disaccharides, and N-acetylhexosamines readily formed volatile TMS derivatives by the procedure described by Sweeley et al. (4), hexosamine hydrochlorides failed to give volatile products for use in GLC (6). Hence, in earlier investigations (6–7), hexosamines were N-acetylated prior to silylation for GLC analysis. In the present investigation, TMS derivatives were analyzed by GLC after direct trimethylsilylation of hexosamines, using hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) in dimethylformamide. Application of this method in the analysis of acid mucopolysaccharides (MPS) has also been investigated.
Usefulness of pipelle endometrial biopsy in the diagnosis of women at risk for ectopic pregnancy.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of endometrial Pipelle (Unimar) biopsy to detect chorionic villi in suspected ectopic pregnancy. Study Design: This was a blinded prospective trial that involved 32 women who were in stable condition with suspected ectopic pregnancy. Endometrial pipelle sampling was performed before uterine dilation and curettage. Pipelle and frozen section results were compared with final disease. Results: Ten of 32 patients (31%) had chorionic villi that was consistent with a miscarriage; 22 of 32 patients (69%) had none detected. Pipelle biopsy had a sensitivity of 30% (95% CI, 6.7-65.2), a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 84.5-100), a positive predictive value of 100% (95% CI, 29.2-100), and a negative predictive value of 76% (95% CI, 56.5-87). Frozen section had a sensitivity of 87.5% (95% CI, 47.3-99.7), a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 83.1-100), a positive predictive value of 100% (95% CI, 59-100), and a negative predictive value of 95.3% (95% CI, 76.1-99.8). Conclusion: In patients with suspected ectopic pregnancy, Pipelle sampling is not a substitute for curettage because the sensitivity and predictive values are unacceptable.