cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Methanococcus vannielii selenium metabolism: Purification and N-terminal amino acid sequences of a novel selenium-binding protein and selenocysteine lyase

Selenium is an essential component of several enzymes and proteins in a number of methane-producing archae. Information concerning accessory proteins that function in selenium transport processes, however, is limited. A novel selenium-binding protein with a potential transport role and a selenocysteine lyase that serves as a selenium delivery protein are present in Methanococcus vannielii. The selenium-binding protein was purified from extracts of 75Se-labeled cells. Although there was gradual loss of 75Se during purification, the isolated protein still could be detected as a radioactive 42 kDa species on native PAGE gels and as a 33 kDa species on SDS PAGE gels. The N-terminal amino acid sequence of residues 1 - 63 of the protein was determined by automated Edman degradative analysis. The only homologous sequence detected in the recorded data base was that of a gene encoding an unknown protein located in the genomic sequence of Methanococcus maripaludis. Cloning and expression of the corresponding gene from M. vannielii are described in a manuscript in press (Self et al.). A 47 kDa selenocysteine lyase isolated from M. vannielii extracts exhibited sequence homology to the NIFS family of proteins that transport sulfur. The purified selenocysteine lyase catalyzed the elimination of an elemental form of selenium from free selenocysteine and delivered this selenium directly to selenophosphate synthetase. The synthetase converted the selenium to selenophosphate in an ATP-dependent reaction.
Structure-toxicity correlations of organic contaminants in aqueous coal-conversion effluents.

Five series of organic contaminants associated with aqueous coalconversion effluents were studied to determine the correlation between their known partition coefficients in the octanol-water system and their toxicity to the ciliateTetrahymena pyriformis. In all five series, toxicity increased and solubility decreased with increased alkyl substitution. Compounds containing the equivalent of two or more methyl groups are more toxic than those with one or no alkyl substitutions.
Tissue distribution of PCB components in swine and sheep fed three different rations containing Aroclors 1242 and 1254.

Growing swine and sheep were fed three dietary variations containing 20 ppm of Aroclors 1242 or 1254 for 13 to 15 weeks. Generally, Aroclor 1254 residues were higher; higher 1242 residues in swine blood, spleen, and ovary are attributed to persistent major components of this Aroclor. Some minor differences in total PCB were observed with varying diets, but peak composition did not vary. Some lower chlorinated components maintained higher levels in the blood relative to other components; other components were selectively accumulated in tissues such as fat and muscle. Blood and fat residues in sheep declined during the last weeks of feeding. Microsomal oxidase levels were elevated in response to PCB and diet in both species, but the response was greater in sheep. Sheep liver microsomes were capable of metabolizing pure analogs and components of Aroclor 1242. Major differences in Aroclor profiles can be demonstrated between swine and sheep residues and total residues can be estimated by measuring selected peaks in blood and backfat. The peaks which provide the most reliable estimate of total PCB residue vary with species and Aroclor.
Factors affecting ability to resume oral nutrition in the oropharyngeal dysphagic individual

Successful oral intake of nutrition depends not only on the patient's ability to swallow efficiently and safely but also a number of cognitive, neurolinguistic, and behavioral variables. This paper reviews these competencies as they are integrated into the act of oral feeding and describes the types of disorders that affect these abilities. Methods of evaluating and treating the abilities needed for successful oral intake are described.
Transverse gauge interactions and the vanquished Fermi liquid.

The interaction between a Fermi liquid and transverse gauge bosons is considered within the framework of the renormalization group. It is shown from an expansion in $\ensuremath{\epsilon}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}3\ensuremath{-}d$, where $d$ is the spatial dimension, that a nontrivial fixed point emerges for dimensions less than three, and that this fixed point signifies a critical Fermi system different from the conventional Landau-Fermi liquid. The dimension $d\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}3$ is the upper critical dimension where the correlation functions contain logarithmic corrections; for $dg3$, the system behaves like a Landau-Fermi liquid. Some of the consequences of this breakdown of Fermi liquid are discussed.
Quantitative comparison of processes of oil- and water-based mud-filtrate invasion and corresponding effects on borehole resistivity measurements

Some laboratory and qualitative studies have documented the influence of water-based mud(WBM)-filtrate invasion on borehole resistivity measurements. Negligible work, however, has been devoted to studying the effects of oil-based mud(OBM)-filtrate invasion on well logs and the corresponding impact on the estimation of petrophysical properties. We quantitatively compare the effects of WBM- and OBM-filtrate invasion on borehole resistivity measurements. We simulate the process of mud-filtrate invasion into a porous and permeable rock formation assuming 1D radial distributions of fluid saturation and fluid properties while other petrophysical properties remain constant. To simulate the process of mud-filtrate invasion, we calculate a time-dependent flow rate of OBM-filtrate invasion by adapting the available formulation of the physics of WBM-filtrate invasion. This approach includes the dynamically coupled effects of mud-cake growth and multiphase filtrate invasion. Simulations are performed with a commercia...
Action of black widow spider venom at insect neuromuscular junctions.

Abstract The most striking action of black widow spider venom on both excitatory and inhibitory neuromuscular junctions of the American cockroach is presynaptic, like the action previously reported for vertebrate neuromuscular junctions. As indicated by post-junctional miniature excitatory and inhibitory endplate potentials, the rate of spontaneous transmitter release increases greatly after venom application and then decreases to zero, at which time the junctions are permanently blocked. The resting potentials of the muscle fibers and the sizes of the last miniatures that occur are essentially unchanged. That the venom also has a post-synaptic action is indicated by 1–2 mV fluctuations of the muscle membrane potential that occur almost immediately after venom application and before there has been any massive release of transmitter.
Selective γ-ketoaldehyde scavengers protect NaV1.5 from oxidant-induced inactivation

Abstract The cardiac sodium channel (SCN5A, NaV1.5) is a key determinant of electrical impulse conduction in cardiac tissue. Acute myocardial infarction leads to diminished sodium channel availability, both because of decreased channel expression and because of greater inactivation of channels already present. Myocardial infarction leads to significant increases in reactive oxygen species and their downstream effectors including lipoxidation products. The effects of reactive oxygen species on NaV1.5 function in whole hearts can be modeled in cultured myocytes, where oxidants shift the availability curve of INa to hyperpolarized potentials, decreasing cardiac sodium current at the normal activation threshold. We recently examined potential mediators of the oxidant-induced inactivation and found that one specific lipoxidation product, the isoketals, recapitulated the effects of oxidant on sodium currents. Isoketals are highly reactive γ-ketoaldehydes formed by the peroxidation of arachidonic acid that covalently modify the lysine residues of proteins. We now confirm that exposure to oxidants induces lipoxidative modification of NaV1.5 and that the selective isoketal scavengers block voltage-dependent changes in sodium current by the oxidant tert-butylhydroperoxide, both in cells heterologously expressing NaV1.5 and in a mouse cardiac myocyte cell line (HL-1). Thus, inhibition of this lipoxidative modification pathway is sufficient to protect the sodium channel from oxidant induced inactivation and suggests the potential use of isoketal scavengers as novel therapeutics to prevent arrhythmogenesis during myocardial infarction.
Food security and the doomsday vault: foresight or fallacy?

In 2008, the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture initiated a Global Seed Vault in Svalbard, Norway, an ex situ collection of the world's domesticated food plants for conservation and research. After examining seed vault policy in the context of shifts in agriculture over the last decades - centralization of seed innovation, seed patenting, and the impact of industrial agriculture on crop diversity - the analysis supports the conclusion that the vault' approach is not an avenue to food security because it accelerates the very system eroding genetic diversity in food crops and marginalizes in situ crop conservation.
Autocrine regulation of epithelial permeability by hypoxia: Role for polarized release of tumor necrosis factor α ☆ ☆☆

Abstract Background & Aims: The intestinal mucosa is lined by a monolayer of protective epithelial cells. This barrier is regulated by immune-derived factors such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ). Because of the high volume of blood flow, the intestine is a primary target for hypoxic damage. We hypothesize that epithelial cytokine responses are regulated by hypoxia. Methods: T84 intestinal epithelial cells were used to assess alterations in permeability, major histocompatibility complex class II induction, cytokine receptor expression, and cytokine release in response to combinations of IFN-γ and cellular hypoxia. Results: Hypoxia potentiated the influence of IFN-γ on epithelial barrier function. Such responses were conferrable in a ≥10-kilodalton conditioned media fraction from hypoxic epithelia. Subsequent experiments identified this factor as epithelium-derived tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Add-back of recombinant TNF-α in combination with IFN-γ to normoxic epithelia recapitulated hypoxia and identified basolaterally polarized TNF-α receptor types I and II on intestinal epithelia. A similar pattern of TNF-α–receptor expression was observed on native intestinal epithelia. Specific inhibition of TNF-α using neutralizing antibody or α- N -phthalimidoglutarimide (thalidomide) resulted in reversal of the hypoxia-evoked responses. Conclusions: These studies indicate that during hypoxia, epithelium-derived mediators such as TNF-α have the potential to regulate permeability through autocrine pathways. GASTROENTEROLOGY 1998;114:657-668
Poverty rankings using noisy data on living standards

Abstract A consistent and robust poverty ranking will be unaffected by the omission of random and identically distributed idiosyncratic determinants of individual welfare. However, ambiguities in ranking due to heterogeneity in error distributions are difficult to resolve on a priori grounds.
Controlling macromolecular structures towards effective antimicrobial polymers

Abstract Drug resistance of pathogenic bacteria is a major global problem leading humanity towards a pre-antibiotic era. Decline in the discovery of novel antibiotics and the lack of a resilient platform to develop novel antimicrobial agents worsens the situation. Amphiphilic antimicrobial polymers, which have roots coming from antimicrobial peptides, show promise as potent antimicrobials having low susceptibility for developing resistance, unlike small molecular antibiotics. This feature article highlights recent advances in the fabrication of membrane-active antimicrobial polymers. The design of various types of macromolecular architectures with control of structural parameters such as hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity balance, molecular weight, and ionic groups will be emphasized in order to achieve strong antimicrobial activities while minimizing toxicity to mammalian cells. Advanced polymeric assemblies with well-defined nanostructures including core/shell shaped nano-objects and polymeric vesicles are also discussed. Lastly, current challenges and future directions in the field of antimicrobial polymers for ensuing practical biomedical applications are presented.
Ion chromatographic analysis of palmes tubes for nitrite

Abstract The conventional spectrophotometric analysis of Palmes tubes has a precision of 300 ppb hr for ambient nitrogen dioxide. A proposed analysis using ion chromatography could have a precision of 4 ppb hr for ambient nitrogen dioxide.
Abstract 464: Methylase meets phosphatase: roles of PRMT and EYA1 in neuroblastoma

High-risk neuroblastoma is a lethal childhood tumor characterized by increased oncoprotein MYCN expression. As strategies for modulation of MYCN function itself have proved challenging, targeting of MYCN9s downstream effectors may provide an alternative option. Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) has been reported as a MYCN target gene in neuroblastoma; high expression of PRMT1 is significantly associated with a poor prognosis. Importantly, PRMT1-deficient cells have been shown to be hypersensitive to chemotherapy-induced DNA damage, suggesting that targeting PRMT1 may overcome drug resistance for patients with advanced neuroblastoma. However, the underlying mechanisms of how PRMT1 contributes to chemoresistance and tumor progression are still largely unknown. We report here that PRMT1 forms a novel complex with EYA1, a phosphatase and transcriptional coactivator that may serve as the crucial determinant of survival versus apoptotic responses to DNA damage through dephosphorylation of histones. Interestingly, we found that EYA1 is highly expressed in advanced neuroblastoma and that PRMT1 physically associates with EYA1 through direct interaction. Further, rendering EYA1 refractory to methylation by PRMT1 abolishes its phosphatase activity. These findings suggest that PRMT1 methylase, EYA1 phosphatase, and PRMT1-EYA1 may be druggable targets for the therapy of neuroblastoma. Citation Format: Xingguo Li, Simeng Wang, Nina F. Schor. Methylase meets phosphatase: roles of PRMT and EYA1 in neuroblastoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 464. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-464
Ozone variability in the upper stratosphere during the declining phase of the solar cycle 22

Recent studies of the solar cycle variation of ozone have shown that the response of ozone in the upper stratosphere to solar UV variation, as inferred from the SBUV (Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet) type measurements, is about a factor of two greater than estimated from 2-D photochemical models. Because of potential errors in accounting for the long term instrument drift in the SBUV type of measurements, the significance of this discrepancy is difficult to quantify. In this paper, ozone measurements from the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) and the solar irradiance measurements from the Solar Stellar Irradiance Comparison Experiment (SOLSTICE) and the Solar Ultraviolet Irradiance Monitor (SUSIM) onboard the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) are analyzed to estimate the upper stratosphere ozone response to changes in the solar UV irradiance. During the three year period of UARS measurements, analyzed here for the declining phase of the solar cycle 22, the solar irradiance in the 200–205 nm range decreased by about 5 % from a near solar maximum to a near solar minimum level. During the same period, ozone mixing ratio measured from the MLS instrument decreased by about 2–4% in the 0.7–3 hPa region. In the upper stratosphere, the general characateristics of the MLS time series are similar to those inferred from the NOAA-11 SBUV/2 measurements. The SBUV/2 trends above 1.5 hPa, however, are significantly greater than those derived from the MLS data. The UARS data suggest that the long term solar UV response of ozone in the upper stratosphere is underestimated by 2-D photochemical models as in previous studies based on the SBUV type measurements.
Crustal fissuring on the crest of the southern East Pacific Rise at 17°15′–40′S

S with the near-bottom DSL-120 andArgo II imaging systems. We observe that the youngest lava flows (on a relative age scale) aresparsely fissured and that there is a cumulative increase in fissure abundance with time thatproduces a strong positive correlation between fissure density and relative age of lava flows.Average fissure widths were used to estimate fissure depths. In the 17 15
Effects of mixtures of sediment contaminants on the marine infaunal amphipod, rhepoxynius abronius

The infaunal amphipod, Rhepoxynius abronius Barnard, was exposed to mixtures of sediment contaminants at concentrations of the individual compounds that produce few or no effects. Combinations of zinc, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (Aroclor® 1254) and fluoranthene produced joint toxicological actions that could be classified as additive or less than additive. To be more ecologically relevant, sediment quality criteria should be expressed in relation to a model of interactive effects. A relatively small decrease in the total volatile solids content of sediment from 1.72 to 1.30% increased the concentration of contaminants in interstitial water and increased sediment toxicity.
Depression and self-reinforcement behavior in hospitalized patients.

Abstract The relationship between depression and self-reinforcement behavior was examined in hospitalized medical patients. Psychological referrals were divided into high and low depression groups and were compared with a control group on a memory task. The high depression group gave themselves fewer self-rewards and more self-punishment than either of the other groups. This was true despite no differences in the number of correct responses. The results are discussed in terms of the possible explanatory role of self-reinforcement in the development and maintenance of depressed behavior.
Two different pathways of interferon mediated suppression of antibody secretion.

Abstract Interferon suppresses a variety of in vitro immune responses by a mechanism which has not been well defined. Both direct suppression and activation of suppressor T cells have been suggested as possible mechanisms of interferon action. In an attempt to examine this question interferon-α (IFNα)-mediated suppression of a plaque forming cell response to a T cell independent antigen by spleen cells or by B cells was examined. Somewhat greater quantities of IFNα were required to suppress plaque forming cell responses by B cells than by spleen cells to the antigen fluoresceinated- Brucella abortus (FITC-BA). However, suppression of spleen cell responses could be blocked by addition of either 2-mercaptoethanol, levamisole or monoclonal antibodies against the lymphokine, soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS), whereas suppression of B cell responses by interferon-α was unaffected by these agents. Each of these agents interferes with SIRS mediated suppression of immune responses. Addition of T cells to B cell cultures stimulated with FITC-BA did not affect the total plaque forming cell response nor the extent of suppression by IFNα, but it did restore 2-mercaptoethanol sensitivity to IFNα-mediated suppression. As few as 1 × 10 5 T cells were effective and it was necessary to add T cells within 3 h of addition of IFNα to confer 2-mercaptoethanol sensitivity to IFNα mediated suppression. These data suggest that IFNα can suppress immune responses by two different pathways and that in the presence of T cells, activation of suppressor T cells is the dominant pathway. The presence of T cells must also prevent direct suppression of B cells by IFNα.
A multi-channel transmitter for the physiological study of birds in flight

This paper describes a light-weight, rugged, multi-channel transmitter designed for telemetering biological data such as tidal volume, electrocardiograms, and body temperature, from birds in flight. The transmitter operates at 230 Mc/s, and uses FM-FM modulation. It measures 3 in. in length, 1 in. dia. and weighs 30 g with two 100-mA hr Silvercel batteries.
Scale-Dependent Statistical Geometry in Two-Dimensional Flow

By studying the shape dynamics of three-particle clusters, we investigate the statistical geometry of a spatiotemporally chaotic experimental quasi-two-dimensional flow. We show that when shape and size are appropriately decoupled, these Lagrangian triangles assume statistically stationary shape distributions that depend on the flow scale, with smaller scales favoring more distorted triangles. These preferred shapes are not due to trapping by Eulerian flow structures. Since our flow does not have developed turbulent cascades, our results suggest that more careful work is required to understand the specific effects of turbulence on the advection of Lagrangian clusters.
Insulin-like Growth Factor-I Liposomal Gene Transfer and Systemic Growth Hormone Stimulate Wound Healing

Many of the anabolic effects of growth hormone (GH) act through insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I). Systemic administration of GH in combination with IGF-I has been shown to stimulate wound reepithelialization, however, it causes hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, respectively. We hypothesize that very low doses of IGF-I in a liposome form will have the same positive wound-healing effect when administered locally as the higher doses of GH plus IGF-I given systemically. To test this hypothesis, rats were given a 40% TBSA full-thickness scald injury and received either placebo IGF-I (5.0 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously), IGF-I liposome (0.9 microgram/kg/week, subcutaneously), or a combination of GH and IGF-I, or IGF-I liposomes for 8 weeks. GH in combination with IGF-I showed a significant increase in postburn weight. Wound reepithelialization, measured by computerized planimetry as percentage original wound area, was significantly increased in rats receiving GH plus IGF-I, GH plus IGF-I liposomes, and IGF-I liposomes when compared to sham, or IGF-I (p < 0.05). Results indicate that small doses of IGF-I, delivered in the form of liposomes, are equally effective in increasing burn wound reepithelialization as the higher doses of GH plus IGF-I, or GH plus IGF-I liposomes.
Nonlinear optical phenomena in silicon waveguides: Modeling and applications

Several kinds of nonlinear optical effects have been observed in recent years using silicon waveguides, and their device applications are attracting considerable attention. In this review, we provide a unified theoretical platform that not only can be used for understanding the underlying physics but should also provide guidance toward new and useful applications. We begin with a description of the third-order nonlinearity of silicon and consider the tensorial nature of both the electronic and Raman contributions. The generation of free carriers through two-photon absorption and their impact on various nonlinear phenomena is included fully within the theory presented here. We derive a general propagation equation in the frequency domain and show how it leads to a generalized nonlinear Schrodinger equation when it is converted to the time domain. We use this equation to study propagation of ultrashort optical pulses in the presence of self-phase modulation and show the possibility of soliton formation and supercontinuum generation. The nonlinear phenomena of cross-phase modulation and stimulated Raman scattering are discussed next with emphasis on the impact of free carriers on Raman amplification and lasing. We also consider the four-wave mixing process for both continuous-wave and pulsed pumping and discuss the conditions under which parametric amplification and wavelength conversion can be realized with net gain in the telecommunication band.
Determination of Capillary Pressure Function from Resistivity Data

A model has been derived theoretically to correlate capillary pressure and resistivity index based on the fractal scaling theory. The model is simple and predicts a power law relationship between capillary pressure and resistivity index (Pc = pe · Iβ) in a specific range of low water saturation. To verify the model, gas-water capillary pressure and resistivity were measured simultaneously at a room temperature in 14 core samples from two formations in an oil reservoir. The permeability of the core samples ranged from 0.028 to over 3000 md. The porosity ranged from less than 8 to over 30. Capillary pressure curves were measured using a semi-permeable porous-plate technique. The model was tested against the experimental data obtained in this study. The results demonstrated that the model could match the experimental data in a specific range of low water saturation. The experimental results also support the fractal scaling theory in a low water saturation range. The new model developed in this study may be deployed to determine capillary pressure from resistivity data both in laboratories and reservoirs, especially in the case in which permeability is low or it is difficult to measure capillary pressure.
Developing an assessment plan to learn about student learning

Abstract When institutions are internally motivated to learn about student learning, assessment moves beyond a periodic activity to an organic and systematic cycle of inquiry involving a shared commitment among faculty, staff, and administrators. The Assessment Guide is designed to assist institutions as they develop and implement a plan to assess their students’ learning and development continuously.
The virtual sandbox

Modern virtual environments are three-dimensional, simulated worlds. Inside of them, avatars live the equivalent of a human life: they walk, talk, and interact with other avatars, thus exposing what is considered to be social behavior. As a result, virtual worlds lend themselves to the study of social behaviors in a laboratory setting. In fact, their technical capabilities provide a number of advantages over real life experimental laboratories. On the downside, however, virtual worlds also add complexity to experiments by clouding the identities of the people who "play" the role of their avatars. Despite these issues, virtual environments can contribute to future experimental research by addressing three generic needs that information systems support: increasing social presence, offering an elaborate visualization tool, and providing a safe haven for simulation, exploration, and innovation.
Changes in Nutrition Knowledge Scores and Calcium Intake in Female Adolescents.

A three-day nutrition education program on calcium nutriture for female adoles cents ages 14–16 was presented at a midwestern high school. The purpose of the program was to increase the adolescents' knowledge of calcium balance and its importance, thus prompting healthy food and lifestyle habits. The study was conducted using a pretest, posttest, and post-posttest one month later. Each testing period consisted of a nutrition examination, lifestyle questionnaire, and 24-hour diet recall. Data were analyzed by a two-way ANOVA with repeated mea sures. Female adolescents were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 29) or a no-treatment control group (n = 20). The findings were: (a) the experimental group's nutrition knowledge scores increased significantly following the program and remained significantly higher 30 days later; (b) calcium and vitamin D intakes increased between the pretest and posttest by 27% and 30%, respectively, in the control group and by 24% and 51%, respectively, in the experimental group; and (c) compared to the control group, the mean intakes for calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus in the experimental group were closer to the RDA for those nutrients, and the calcium:phosphorus ratio was closer to the recommended ratio of 1:1 at the posttest period and at the post-posttest period.
HIV/hepatitis C virus coinfection ameliorates the atherogenic lipoprotein abnormalities of HIV infection.

BACKGROUND Higher levels of small low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subclasses have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The extent to which HIV infection and HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection are associated with abnormalities of lipoprotein subclasses is unknown. METHODS Lipoprotein subclasses were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in plasma samples from 569 HIV-infected and 5948 control participants in the Fat Redistribution and Metabolic Change in HIV Infection (FRAM), Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA), and Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) studies. Multivariable regression was used to estimate the association of HIV and HIV/HCV coinfection with lipoprotein measures with adjustment for demographics, lifestyle factors, and waist-to-hip ratio. RESULTS Relative to controls, small LDL levels were higher in HIV-monoinfected persons (+381 nmol/l, P <0.0001), with no increase seen in HIV/HCV coinfection (-16.6 nmol/l). Levels of large LDL levels were lower (-196 nmol/l, P <0.0001) and small HDL were higher (+8.2 μmol/l, P < 0.0001) in HIV monoinfection with intermediate values seen in HIV/HCV coinfection. Large HDL levels were higher in HIV/HCV-coinfected persons relative to controls (+1.70 μmol/l, P <0.0001), whereas little difference was seen in HIV-monoinfected persons (+0.33, P = 0.075). Within HIV-infected participants, HCV was associated independently with lower levels of small LDL (-329 nmol/l, P <0.0001) and small HDL (-4.6 μmol/l, P <0.0001), even after adjusting for demographic and traditional cardiovascular risk factors. CONCLUSION HIV-monoinfected participants had worse levels of atherogenic LDL lipoprotein subclasses compared with controls. HIV/HCV coinfection attenuates these changes, perhaps by altering hepatic factors affecting lipoprotein production and/or metabolism. The effect of HIV/HCV coinfection on atherosclerosis and the clinical consequences of low small subclasses remain to be determined.
An Experimental Investigation of Complicated Responses of a Two-Degree-of-Freedom Structure

Recent theoretical studies indicate that whereas large excitation amplitudes are needed to produce chaotic motions in single-degree-of-freedom systems, extremely small excitation levels can produce chaotic motions in multi-degree-of-freedom systems if they prossess autoparametric resonances. To verify these results, we conducted an experimental study of the response of a two-degree-of-freedom structure with quadratic nonlinearities and a two-to-one internal resonance to a primary resonant excitation of the second mode. The responses were analyzed using hardware and software developed for performing time-dependent modal decomposition. We observed periodic, quasi-periodic, and chaotic responses, as predicted by theory. Conditions were found under which extremely small excitation levels produced chaotic motions
Rice yields in Nepal: Is the 4-tons per hectare yield goal attainable?

Abstract In recent years, rice production in Nepal has not kept pace with the population growth. As a result, the government of Nepal has called for a rice yield goal of 4-tons per hectare. This is about double the current average yield for the country. In this study, we attempt to determine whether the 4-tons per hectare yield goal is attainable. The inputs required to achieve higher rice yields were estimated from the coefficients of a production function fitted to farm level data collected from two villages, located in the Rupandehi district of western Nepal. The results suggest that the 4-tons per hectare yield is economically feasible in the areas that are 100 percent irrigated. However, it would not be realistic to expect this yield in the areas where irrigated land approaches the national average of only 23 percent. Nevertheless, it should be possible for Nepal to achieve a rice yield increase sufficient to meet the increase in domestic demand in the foreseeable future. ( JEL O13)
Spectroscopic Evidence for Participation of the 1′,4′-Imino Tautomer of Thiamin Diphosphate in Catalysis by Yeast Pyruvate Decarboxylase

Abstract The 1′,4′-iminopyrimidine tautomeric form of the coenzyme thiamin diphosphate (ThDP), implicated in catalysis on the basis of the conformation of enzyme-bound ThDP, has been observed by both ultraviolet absorption and circular dichroism spectroscopy. On yeast pyruvate decarboxylase, the unusual tautomer is observed in an active center variant in which catalysis in the post-decarboxylation regime of the reaction is compromised. In a model system consisting of N1-methyl-4-aminopyrimidinium or N1-methyl-N4- n -butylpyrimidinium salts, on treatment with either NaOH in water, or DBU in DMSO there is an intermediate formed with λ max near 310 nm, and this intermediate reverts back to the starting salt on acidification. Proton NMR chemical shifts are consistent with the intermediate representing the 1-methyl-4-imino tautomer. On the enzyme, the intermediate could be observed by rapid-scan stopped flow with UV detection when reacting holoenzyme of the E477Q active center variant with pyruvate, and by circular dichroism even in the absence of pyruvate. This represents the first direct observation of the imino tautomeric form of ThDP both on the enzyme and in models, although some years ago, this laboratory had already reported some pertinent acid-base properties for its formation [Jordan, F., and Mariam, Y. H. (1978) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 100 , 2534–2541]. The work also represents the first instance in which a rare tautomer implicated in catalysis is identified and suggests that such tautomeric catalysis may be more common in biology than hitherto recognized.
Sino-Orbital and Cerebral Aspergillosis: Cure with Medical Therapy/Sino-Orbital- und Zerebralaspergillose: Ausheilung durch medikamentÖse Therapie

Summary: A patient with sino-orbital and cerebral aspergillosis was successfully treated medically without surgical debridement. Anti-fungal agents, including amphotericin B and flucytosine were given over a fifteen month period with improvement in symptoms, resolution of cerebral abscesses by CT scan, and disappearance of serum precipitins to Aspergillus fumigatus. Success was attributed to the long duration of therapy (received in part as an outpatient), the use of agents to which the organism was known to be susceptible, and the maintenance of therapeutic drug levels. Although surgery is important in the management of chronic sino-orbital and cerebral aspergillosis, in patients unable to undergo extensive debridement medical therapy given for extended periods of time may be successful in eradicating the infection. Zusammenfassung: Eine Patientin mit einer Aspergillose der Nebenhohlen, der Orbita und des Gehirns wurde erfolgreich medikamentos ohne chirurgisches Debridement behandelt. Antimykotika einschlieslich Amphotericin B und Flucytosin wurden uber einen Zeitraum von 15 Monaten verabreicht und fuhrten zu einer Besserung der Symptomatik zu einer Ruckbildung der computertomographisch erfasbaren zerebralen Abszesse und zu einem Verschwinden der Serumprazipitine gegen Aspergillus fumigatus. Der Erfolg wird der langen Dauer der antimykotischen Chemotherapie zugeschrieben (teilweise ambulant verabreicht), ferner der Anwendung von Praparaten mit ausgetesteter Suszeptibilitat des Erregers und der Erzielung und Erhaltung therapeutisch wirksamer Antimykotika-Konzentrationen. Obgleich die Chirurgie in der Behandlung der Aspergillose der Nebenhohlen, der Orbita und des Gehirns das Vorgehen der ersten Wahl ist, kann die medikamentose Therapie bei Patienten, an denen ein extensives chirurgisches Debridement nicht moglich ist, bei Langzeitanwendung die Infektion zum Erloschen bringen.
Studies of the Solid/Solution “Interfacial” Dealumination of Kaolinite in HCl(aq) Using Solid-State 1H CRAMPS and SP/MAS 29Si NMR Spectroscopy

The dealumination of kaolinite by the solid/solution “interfacial” reaction with HCl(aq) at 98 °C was investigated using solid-state 1H CRAMPS and MAS 29Si NMR techniques. The single-pulse (SP)/MAS 29Si NMR spectra of kaolinite-derived solids that are 2−83% dealuminated are observed to be dependent upon the degree of dealumination, showing three resolvable resonances at −89, −100, and −109 ppm. The −89 ppm resonance is due to silicon Q3-type Si(OSi)3(OAl2) sites in unreacted kaolinite, while the latter two resonances are assigned to new Q3-type silica−alumina (Si−OH+−Al) and to Q4-type amorphous silica (Si(OSi)4) sites contained in dealuminated kaolinite solids following partial dealumination. The 1H CRAMPS spectra of these dealuminated solids are also dependent upon the degree of removal of Al3+ ions from the kaolinite Al−OH−Al layer. In addition to a broad proton peak at 4.0 ppm due to structural protons of the intact Al−OH−Al layer in unreacted kaolinite, two new resonances at 0.4 and 7.0 ppm are assig...
Solution for the crisis in electric power supply

New techniques for grid monitoring, protection, and control have been perfected, and their judicious application can help reduce the frequency and severity of catastrophic failures. This article describes the development of an innovative multiagent approach to prevent and control catastrophic failures in large power systems. The research has created understanding of the origin and nature of catastrophic failures. This is achieved by an analysis of hidden failures in protection systems. Vulnerabilities associated with the power system, the information network, and the communication network are also evaluated. The approach is characterized by the extensive use of real-time information from diverse sources, coupled with the development of an evolving dynamic decision event tree. A novel multiagent based platform is used to evaluate system vulnerability to catastrophic events taking in account the market environment and competing entities. Several new concepts associated with wide-area measurements and controls, networked sensors, and adaptive self healing are used to reconfigure the network to minimize the system vulnerability. Approaches developed in this research will provide important solutions for power systems and other interconnected networks of the future.
Avoiding latch formation in regular expression recognizers

Specialized silicon compilers, or module generators, are promising tools for automating the design of custom VLSI chips. In particular, generators for regular language recognizers have many applications. A problem called latch formation that causes regular expression recognizers to be more complex than they would first appear is identified. if recognizers are constructed in the most straightforward way from certain regular expressions, they may contain extraneous latches that cause incorrect operation. After identifying the problem, the article presents a source-to-source transformation that converts regular expressions that cause latch formation into expressions that do not. This transformation allows regular expression recognizers to be simpler, smaller, and faster, thus adding to the advantages of specialized silicon compilers. >
Delayed treatment with nerve growth factor reverses the apparent loss of cholinergic neurons after acute brain damage.

Previous studies have shown that the loss after brain injury of adult rat septal cholinergic neurons whose axons are transected can be prevented by immediate intraventricular nerve growth factor (NGF) administration. This loss of axotomized neurons may be due to a reduction in detectability of neurotransmitter-related enzyme rather than to neuronal death. Here we report that NGF treatment, started after most of the neurons were no longer detectable (i.e., 1, 2, and 3 weeks), induced a dramatic reappearance of the apparently lost cholinergic neurons. These results may have important implications for potential trophic factor treatments of CNS trauma and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's dementia, which are characterized by chronic and progressive losses in the function of specific sets of neurons.
Eigenvalues, Laplacian eigenvalues, and Hamiltonian connectivity of graphs

Abstract Using the eigenvalues or Laplacian eigenvalues of graphs, we present sufficient conditions for Hamiltonian connectivity of graphs.
About coupling constant singularities in quantum electrodynamics

Abstract The contribution of the multibubble insertions in the photon propagator to the anomalous magnetic moment of the electron is reexamined. Using the asymptotic form of the photon propagator one finds a softer singularity than that found in a recent analysis.
Skin rash in a transplant patient receiving multiple drugs.

He is on heparin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cyclosporine, and prednisone. Which one is the culprit, and what should be done?
IMMUNOCYTOCHEMICAL LOCALIZATION OF ANTIGENS IN B. CEREUS T SPORES

The application of immunogold labeling for the localization of antigens on Bacillus cereus T spores is described. Ultrathin cryosections of B. cereus T spores were labeled with rabbit anti-B. cereus T spore serum and protien A-gold conjugate, and viewed in a transmission electron microscope. Antigens were located throughout the spore exosporium and also in the spore coat and protoplast. The higher density of gold particles in the exosporium indicates that the exosporium is very antigenic and was the major antigen when whole, formalin-treated, spores were injected into rabbits. The presence of label in the interior structure suggests spores may have been degraded by the animal upon injection, permitting exposure of interior antigens.
The Group Dynamics of Ego-Action

(1971). The Group Dynamics of Ego-Action. The Journal of Environmental Education: Vol. 3, Communicating Everyman's Ecology, pp. 35-42.
Measuring the true helicity of carbon nanotubes

Electron diffraction patterns from carbon nanotubes have been analyzed for measuring the true helicity of carbon nanotubes. The cylindrical curvature of the tubules causes a large difference between the apparent half twist angle which appears in electron diffraction patterns and the true helical angle of the examined tubule. A direct method has been developed to calculate the cylindrical correction factors, which are vital for accurate deduction of the true helicity from electron diffraction patterns. By combining with measured diameters from real-space images, it is now possible to determine the atomic structure of carbon nanotubes.
Mycobacterium kansasii Infections in Patients Positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus

The experience with Mycobacterium kansasii infections in patients who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas is presented, and the literature on such infections is reviewed. The absolute and relative paucity of reports of M. kansasii infections in HIV-positive patients is emphasized. M. kansasii infections in HIV-positive patients are classified as either pulmonary or disseminated. Evidence of the lack of therapeutic response in patients with disseminated infections and of the potential for therapeutic response in patients with infections limited to the lung is reviewed and documented. Other unresolved diagnostic and therapeutic issues concerning M. kansasii infections in HIV-positive patients are reviewed.
Are bilinguals different? What VOT tells us about simultaneous bilinguals

The evidence for native-like phonological competence in the two languages spoken by simultaneous bilinguals is investigated by measuring their Voice Onset Time (VOT) of stop consonants in Canadian English (CE) and Canadian French (CF). Past research has suggested a correspondence between age of exposure to the second language and native-like production of VOT. This study addresses two questions: (1) do these simultaneous bilinguals maintain monolingual-like phonological contrasts of the stop consonants? and (2) do these speakers produce monolingual-like variation in the VOT values? Three groups of speakers are compared to investigate these questions: simultaneous bilinguals, monolingual CE, and monolingual CF. The bilingual participants produced monolingual-like phonemic contrasts and phonetic variation for all but the English voiced stops. It is proposed that bilinguals strive to maintain acceptable language-specific distinctions while simultaneously reducing the processing load by producing overlap in s...
Linking Spermatid Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) Binding Protein and Retrogene Diversity to Reproductive Success

Spermiogenesis is a postmeiotic process that drives development of round spermatids into fully elongated spermatozoa. Spermatid elongation is largely controlled post-transcriptionally after global silencing of mRNA synthesis from the haploid genome. Here, rats that differentially express EGFP from a lentiviral transgene during early and late steps of spermiogenesis were used to flow sort fractions of round and elongating spermatids. Mass-spectral analysis of 2D gel protein spots enriched >3-fold in each fraction revealed a heterogeneous RNA binding proteome (hnRNPA2/b1, hnRNPA3, hnRPDL, hnRNPK, hnRNPL, hnRNPM, PABPC1, PABPC4, PCBP1, PCBP3, PTBP2, PSIP1, RGSL1, RUVBL2, SARNP2, TDRD6, TDRD7) abundantly expressed in round spermatids prior to their elongation. Notably, each protein within this ontology cluster regulates alternative splicing, sub-cellular transport, degradation and/or translational repression of mRNAs. In contrast, elongating spermatid fractions were enriched with glycolytic enzymes, redox enzymes and protein synthesis factors. Retrogene-encoded proteins were over-represented among the most abundant elongating spermatid factors identified. Consistent with these biochemical activities, plus corresponding histological profiles, the identified RNA processing factors are predicted to collectively drive post-transcriptional expression of an alternative exome that fuels finishing steps of sperm maturation and fitness.
Time-dependent WKB expansions for a class of propagators

A time-dependent variant of the WKB method is developed for propagators which do not have the simple Feynman structure K = jexp(iS/h) with j = j( t). The method is applied to radial propagators for N-dimensional isotropic oscillators. An expansion in ascending powers of h results in an asymptotic series, which sums to a simple form involving a Bessel function. Alternatively, a convergent series for the propagator is obtained by expansion in inverse powers of tr. Semiclassical approximations to propagators are extensively applied in spectroscopy, scattering theory, molecular dynamics, irreversible thermodynamics and elementary-particle theory [ 11. Terms in the WKB expansion involving higher powers of ti are less often considered. In this paper, we develop a time-dependent formulation of the WKB method which can be systematically extended to arbitrary powers of fi. The method is applied to the radial components of the Feymnan propagators for N-dimensional isotropic harmonic oscillators. Consider accordingly anN-dimensional Euclidean space (x1, x2 . . .xN) with the generalized radial variable
Gene expression during multistage hepatocarcinogenesis.

Several multistage models of hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat have now been developed. In one of these models at least three distinct stages—initiation, promotion, and progression—can be delineated. The first and last are irreversible, while that of promotion is reversible. Quantitation of each stage is possible, While several variable marker enzymes have been utilized to identify and characterize preneoplastic lesions during the stage of promotion, preliminary investigations indicate that the transcriptional activation of proto-oncogenes, particularly that of c-raf-l proto-oncogene, may be used as an indicator of those preneoplastic lesions that will potentially develop into malignant neoplasms.