cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE PARATHYROID GLANDS A REVIEW OP THE LITERATURE

andstrom (1880) was the first to describe the (external) parathyroid glands as anatomic entities; his gross and microscopic description of these bodies as found in man and in several types of animals is excellent. He thought that they probably represented undeveloped embryonic thyroid tissue. Sandstrom credited both Remak (1851) and Virchow (1864) with having seen these bodies and briefly described them. Baber, in a second paper on the thjToid publishedin 1881, apparently without knowledge of Sandstrom’s work, devoted a special section to describing under the name of “undeveloped portions of the thyroid” what we now recognize as the external and internal parathyroids. He found no evidence, however, of their later development into thyroid tissue. Unfortunately Baber’s work remained comparatively unknown and the confusion resulting from the failure to recognize an irregular and quite extensive distribution of parathyroid tissue was not completely cleared up until the work of Kohn was published in 1895.
Endothelin-Induced cyclooxygenase-dependent superoxide generation contributes to K+ channel functional impairment after brain injury.

This study determined if endothelin (ET-1) generates superoxide anion (O - 2 ) in a cyclooxygenase-dependent manner and if such production contributes to impairment of dilation to activators of ATP-sensitive K + (K ATP ) and calcium-sensitive K + (K ca ) channels following fluid percussion brain injury (FPI) in newborn pigs equipped with closed cranial windows. Superoxide dismutase (SOD)-inhibitable nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction was determined as an index of O - 2 generation. Under non-brain injury conditions, topical ET-1 (10 -10 M, the concentration present in CSF following FPI) increased SOD-inhibitable NBT reduction from 1 ± 1 to 17 ± 3 pmol/mm 2 . Indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, blunted such NBT reduction (1 ± 1 to 4 ± 1 pmol/mm 2 ), while the ET-1 antagonist BQ123 blocked NBT reduction. BQ123 and indomethacin also blunted the NBT reduction observed after FPI. Under non-brain injury conditions, ET-1 (10 -10 M) coadministered with the K ATP and K ca channel agonists cromakalim and NS1619 (10 -8 , 10 -6 M) diminished dilation to these K + channel agonists, while indomethacin partially prevented such impairment (13 ± 1 and 23 ± 1 vs. 2 ± 1 and 6 ± 1 vs. 6 ± 1 and 14 ± 2% for cromakalim in untreated, ET-1, and ET-1 plus indomethacin-treated piglets, respectively). Cromakalim- and NS1619-induced pial artery dilation was attenuated following FPI, while indomethacin or BQ123 preadministration partially prevented such impairment (13 ± 1 and 23 ± 1, sham control; 1 ± 1 and 4 ± 1, FPI; 8 ± 1 and 16 ± 3%, FPI and indomethacin-pretreated for responses to cromakalim 10 -8 , 10 -6 M, respectively). These data show that ET-1 increased O - 2 production in a cyclooxygenase-dependent manner and contributed to this production after FPI. These data also show that ET-1 blunted K ATP and K ca channel-mediated cerebrovasodilation in a cyclooxygenase dependent manner. These data suggest that ET-1-induced cyclooxygenase-dependent O - 2 generation contributes to K ATP and K ca channel function impairment after FPI.
Updating systems concepts in family businesses: A focus on values, resource flows, and adaptability

This article extends and expands current systems views of family business and provides a framework for interpreting family business holistically. The framework extends the definition of family-first and business-first systems and adds three categories that typify the gradations of firms that represent balanced systems emphases. In addition, this article discusses the goals, resource transfers, strengths, and limitations of each type of system and describes how firm adaptability and resource flows influence and change these family business systems; it argues that to understand family business health, one must understand the values and goals that guide the family, business, and ownership systems, as well as the overall family business system; and it presents an inclusive definition of family and business based on systems membership.
Calorimetric investigation of the interaction of carbon nanotubes with polystyrene

A simple, scalable procedure that does not require covalent modification of the filler or specialized high shear mixers is described for preparing well-dispersed carbon nanotube composites. Excellent particle dispersions of multiple-walled carbon nanotubes (NTs) and carbon black (CB) in polystyrene (PS) are obtained by coating the particles with a <2-nm layer of PS adsorbed from dilute solution, prior to incorporation in the composite. Improved mechanical properties of composites containing coated particles, especially NT, are demonstrated by dynamic mechanical analysis at low frequency and low amplitude. Formation of a partially immobilized region of polymer surrounding the particles is quantified using flow microcalorimetry with ethyl acetate or methyl ethyl ketone vapor to measure the increase in solvation enthalpy in this region. This calorimetric method is applied to both composites and compacted powder mixtures of NT or CB with PS. The response of integral heat of vapor sorption as a function of particle loading in powder mixtures is similar to percolation curves reported for mechanical and electrical properties of composites.
EVIDENCE FOR HORMONAL REGULATION OF MALPIGHIAN TUBULE EXCRETION IN THE INSECT, PERIPLANETA AMERICANA L.

Abstract Malpighian tubules from dehydrated and salt-loaded animals showed in vitro a lower rate of dye uptake when compared with rate of dye uptake by tubules from normal animals. This may indicate that a hyperosmotic condition of the hemolymph brings about a decrease in the rate of dye excretion by the Malpighian tubules. Rate of dye uptake by tubules from normal animals is lowered by extracts of corpora allata from normal animals, but not by corpora allata extracts from dehydrated or salt-loaded animals. Extracts of supraesophageal ganglion (brain) from dehydrated animals also have an inhibitory effect on rate of dye uptake. There were no indications of a stimulatory effect of dye uptake by any of the extracts. The following interpretation is made: An “antidiuretic principle,” which lowers rate of dye excretion by Malpighian tubules, may be produced in the brain, then transported to the corpora allata to be stored, and released when there is a need to conserve water. The absence of the “antidiuretic principle” from corpora allata of dehydrated and salt-loaded animals may indicate that it is utilized as rapidly as it is produced during hyperosmotic stress.
Interaction of pyrene-labeled monosialoganglioside GM1 micelles with cholera toxin.

Abstract Monosialoganglioside GM1 labeled with 1-pyrene-dodecanoic acid was used to monitor interactions between cholera toxin and its receptor. Binding of cholera toxin to labeled ganglioside caused a decrease in pyrene fluorescence intensity at 480 nm concomitant with an increase in fluorescence intensity at 380 and 398 nm. The observed fluorescence changes are similar to those observed when fluorescent ganglioside is moved from an aqueous solvent to an organic solvent. The data are consistant with cholera toxin-bound ganglioside undergoing a process resembling solvent-dependent molecular dispersion.
An X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic Study of Copper Chromite Catalysts

A series of copper chromite catalysts have been studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The data indicate that in the as-received form the copper is present as a mixture of Cu(OH)2 and CuO. After calcination at 500°C only CuO is present. The chromium is present as Cr+3 and Cr+6 when no promoter is added. When a BaO promoter is added, the Cr+6 is stabilized. Calcination at 500°C for varying periods of time alter the relative amounts of Cr+3 and Cr+6 on the catalytic surface. In addition, the relative amounts of the various oxidation states are a function of calcination temperature. At a calcination temperature of 240°C a Cr+5 surface species is reproducibly observed in one of the catalysts.
Report from Bikini

An AIEE member who was present at the recent atomic bomb tests at Bikini reports his reactions to the tests to the Institute. Full texts of the reports of President's Evaluation Commission and the Joint Chiefs of Staff Evaluation Board are included.
Transcripts of three mitochondrial genes in the RNA of sea urchin eggs and embryos

cDNA clones representing mitochondrial 16 S rRNA, and mRNAs for cytochrome oxidase I and an unidentified reading frame were used to measure the prevalence and stability of these transcripts in gastrula stage embryos. The 16 S rRNA is the most prevalent embryo poly(A) RNA, and is synthesized about four times more rapidly than is the mRNA for cytochrome oxidase. The relative prevalence of the two mRNAs is largely determined by their turnover rates.
Bone and joint infections

Abstract Children presenting with a limp pose a diagnostic dilemma for the clinician. Children may present to a number of specialities, hence, confidence in the examination of the joints, and the musculoskeletal system is essential. There should be a high index of clinical suspicion for infection of the bones or joints, in the acute presentation of a child with a painful limp, and particularly, in the non weight-bearing child. This article will discuss the clinical presentations of paediatric bone and joint infections. The approach to clinical assessment, laboratory and radiological investigations, and management of these conditions, will be discussed. Caring for patients with bone and/or joint infections, often involves several specialities; emergency department doctors, general paediatricians, orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists, paediatric rheumatologists, and the paediatric physiotherapy teams. Early and close collaboration between teams will result in prompt investigation and age appropriate care.
Effect of a DNA Tumour Virus on Antibody Forming Cells in Neonatally Infected Hamsters

LEUKAEMOGENIC viruses, such as Friend, Rauscher or Moloney virus, may markedly suppress the immune responses of infected mice, both at the cellular and humoral levels1–10. AKR mice developing spontaneous leukaemia also have a marked suppression of serum antibody formation preceding clinical symptoms11. Several current theories of carcinogenesis suggest that such deficiencies of specific immunological competence may be a necessary but not exclusive prerequisite for tumour development12–16. In this regard, the induction of tumours by viruses other than those associated with murine leukaemia may also depend on an inadequate immune system and/or induction of specific immunological tolerance. Because most tumour viruses induce neoantigens in infected cells, it seems probable that an immunocompetent individual would respond to the virus induced antigens15. Loss of immunological competence could be related to development of the tumours. This study was undertaken to determine if a non-leukaemia DNA tumour virus could affect the immunological responsiveness of experimental animals. For this purpose, SV40 tumour virus was inoculated into newborn hamsters and their subsequent immune response to sheep erythrocytes was determined at the serum and cell level, using the haemolytic plaque assay in agar gel and serological procedures. The responses of non-infected hamsters were determined simultaneously.
Genesis of presolar diamonds: Comparative high-resolution transmission electron microscopy study of meteoritic and terrestrial nano-diamonds

Abstract Nano-diamonds isolated from acid dissolution residues of primitive carbonaceous meteorites (Allende and Murchison) were studied using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. To discriminate among their most likely formation mechanisms, high-pressure shock-induced metamorphism or low-pressure vapor condensation, the microstructures of presolar diamond crystallites were compared to those of (terrestrial) synthesized nano-diamonds. The synthesized diamonds used for comparison in this study were produced by high-pressure shock waves generated in controlled detonations and by direct nucleation and homoepitaxial growth from the vapor phase in low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-type processes. Microstructural features were identified that appear unique to shock metamorphism and to nucleation from the vapor phase, respectively. A comparison of these features to the microstructures found in presolar diamonds indicates that the predominant mechanism for presolar diamond formation is a vapor deposition process, suggesting a circumstellar condensation origin. A new presolar grain component has also been identified in the meteoritic residues, the (2H) hexagonal polytype of diamond (lonsdaleite).
Pyoderma gangrenosum in a patient with collagenous colitis.

Abstract The association between pyoderma gangrenosum and inflammatory bowel disease is well established. Collagenous colitis is one of the microscopic colitides, which are thought to be on the same spectrum of disease as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Before this study there had been no reported cases of pyoderma gangrenosum in the setting of collagenous colitis. We report a case of a 79-year-old woman with symptomatic collagenous colitis and refractory pyoderma gangrenosum.
Social Disorganization Revisited: Mapping the Recent Immigration and Black Homicide Relationship in Northern Miami

Abstract This critical case study assesses the utility of spatial analysis based on maps rather than statistics for evaluating a fundamental premise of the social disorganization perspective: that immigration and ethnic heterogeneity weaken social control and increase community levels of crime. We investigate the relationship between the most recent wave of immigration and community levels of black homicide in the northern part of the city of Miami, an area that has received a large number of recent arrivals from Haiti and contains an established African American community. While quantitative methods have been used to explore this issue as part of an ongoing city-wide analysis, the current focus is on visual representations of the immigration/homicide linkage in the subsection of the city where the theoretically important target populations of African Americans and Haitians reside. Key findings are consistent with previous quantitative analyses that have demonstrated that immigration is not generally asso...
Differences in the acyl composition of the platelet-activating factor (PAF) precursor and other choline phosphoglycerides of the rabbit retinal rod outer segments and neural retina.

Choline phosphoglycerides comprise almost half of vertebrate retinal phospholipids. This lipid pool contains the precursor of the potent lipid mediator, platelet-activating factor. The acyl composition and distribution of the different subclasses of the choline phosphoglycerides (alkylacyl- [or the precursor of platelet-activating factor], alkenylacyl- [or choline plasmalogen] and diacyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine) were studied in intact rabbit retina, neural retina and rod outer segments. Choline phosphoglycerides were isolated by high performance liquid chromatography and derivatized by acetylation after phospholipase C treatment. The derivatives were purified by high performance liquid chromatography and subjected to methanolysis. Fatty acids were analyzed by capillary gas liquid chromatography. In the intact retina and in the neural retina, the alkylacyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine and alkenylacyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine comprise 1.2% and 1.5%, respectively, of the total choline phosphoglycerides, whereas...
Trunk angular kinematics during slip-induced backward falls and activities of daily living

Prior to developing any specific fall detection algorithm, it is critical to distinguish the unique motion features associated with fall accidents. The current study aimed to investigate the upper trunk angular kinematics during slip-induced backward falls and activities of daily living (ADLs). Ten healthy older adults (age = 75 ± 6 yr (mean ± SD)) were involved in a laboratory study. Sagittal trunk angular kinematics were measured using optical motion analysis system during normal walking, slip-induced backward falls, lying down, bending over, and various types of sitting down (SN). Trunk angular phase-plane plots were generated to reveal the motion features of falls. It was found that backward falls were characterized by a simultaneous occurrence of a slight trunk extension and an extremely high trunk extension velocity (peak average = 139.7 deg/s), as compared to ADLs (peak average = 84.1 deg/s). It was concluded that the trunk extension angular kinematics of falls were clearly distinguishable from those of ADLs from the perspective of angular phase-plane plot. Such motion features can be utilized in future studies to develop a new prior-to-impact fall detection algorithm.
Phenylalanine Transport Across the Blood-Brain Barrier as Studied with the In Situ Brain Perfusion Technique

Unidirectional L-phenylalanine transport into six brain regions of pentobarbital-anesthetized rats was studied using the in situ brain perfusion technique. This technique allows both accurate measurements of cerebrovascular amino acid transport and complete control of perfusate amino acid composition. L-Phenylalanine influx into the brain was sodium independent and could be described by a model with a saturable and a nonsaturable component. Best-fit values for the kinetic constants in the parietal cortex equaled 6.9 X 10(-4) mumol/s/g for Vmax, 0.011 mumol/ml for Km, and 1.8 X 10(-4) ml/s/g for KD during perfusion with fluid that did not contain competing amino acids. D-Phenylalanine competitively inhibited L-phenylalanine transport with a Ki approximately 10-fold greater than the Km for L-phenylalanine. There were no significant regional differences in Km, KD, or Ki, whereas Vmax was significantly greater in the cortical lobes than in the other brain regions. L-Phenylalanine influx during plasma perfusion was only 30% of that predicted in the absence of competing amino acids. Competitive inhibition increased the apparent Km during plasma perfusion by approximately 20-fold, to 0.21 mumol/ml. These data provide accurate new estimates of the kinetic constants that describe L-phenylalanine transport across the blood-brain barrier. In addition, they indicate that the cerebrovascular transfer site affinity (1/Km) for L-phenylalanine is three- to 12-fold greater than previously estimated in either awake or anesthetized animals.
HIV-1 Tat promotes monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 secretion followed by transmigration of monocytes.

The mechanism whereby HIV-infected cells transit from the bloodstream into tissues is not well defined. This phenomenon was addressed by studying the effects of HIV-1 Tat, a protein secreted by infected cells, on human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC-Ls). It was found that monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) was released from HMVEC-Ls in a dose- and time-dependent manner after Tat treatment. MCP-1 is a potent β-chemokine that recruits monocytes and T cells and promotes cell adhesion and transmigration across an endothelial monolayer. It was also observed that MCP-1 and the culture medium from Tat-treated HMVEC-Ls were chemotactic for CD14+ monocytes from human peripheral blood and for THP-1, a promonocytic cell line used as a model system. To characterize the signaling pathways underlying the observed induction of MCP-1, HMVEC-Ls were treated with 2 different protein kinase inhibitors: PD98059, a MAP kinase inhibitor, and GF109203X, a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor. MCP-1 release was significantly reduced when PKC was inhibited, and slightly decreased when PI3 kinase was blocked; no effect on MCP-1 release was observed on MAP kinase inhibition. Similarly, transmigration of THP-1 cells was significantly impaired by the PKC inhibitor, but not by the other tested inhibitors. These data indicate that the HIV-1 Tat protein may act as a protocytokine by causing the release of MCP-1 from the endothelial monolayer, and thereby facilitating monocyte transmigration into tissues via a PKC signaling pathway.
Rectal examination in paediatric trauma care.

When providing trauma care, there is a danger that staff might forget what a frightening and confusing experience it can be for the patient, particularly if that patient is a child. As part of an academic exercise in reflection, i recently examined a critical incident involving the trauma care of a 9-year-old boy. In Accident and Emergency (A&E) the doctor inappropriately performed a rectal examination, which I witnessed in horror. The doctor failed to consider the effect of his actions on the child, the legal necessity for consent and the importance of a full explanation. Deeply disturbed by this incident and determined to avoid any repetition, I set out to find documented evidence to support my assertion that no child should be subjected to such intimate examinations, unless absolutely unavoidable. It is hoped that discussion of this incident will serve to raise the awareness of A&E staff working throughout the country with regard to paediatric rectal examination, as has been the case in my own workplace.
Unsteady Navier-Stokes simulation of the canard-wing-body ramp motion

A time-accurate thin-layer Navier-Stokes simulation of the unsteady flowfield is performed for a typical canard-wing-body configuration undergoing ramp motions. The computations are made at a transonic Mach number of 0.90 and for ramp angles from 0 to 15 degrees. Accuracy is determined by comparisons with steady-state experimental data and with spatial and time-step refinement studies. During the ramp motion, the computational results show improved dynamic lift performance and a strong canard-wing interaction for the canard-on configuration. Formation of the canard leading-edge vortex is inhibited in the early stages of the ramp motion. An analysis performed on the transient flowfield after the ramp motion ends shows that the canard vortex rapidly gains strength and vortex breakdown eventually occurs. These characteristics of the canard vortex have significant influences on wing performance.
Three-dimensional micro-optical architecture for chip-level optical interconnects

As processor speeds enter the Gigahertz regime, the disparity between processing time and memory access time plays an increasingly important role in the overall limitation of processor performance. Furthermore, as the components continue to shrink in size, the limitations in interconnect density and bandwidth serve to exacerbate communication bottlenecks. To address these issues, we propose a 3D architecture based on through-wafer vertical optical interconnects. Our system is monolithically fabricated on a single host substrate and preserves the VLSI-scale of integration by using meso-scopic diffractive optical elements for beam fan-out and signal distribution at the chip level.
Vibrational energy transfer in CD3CI

Abstract Infrared fluorescence has been observed from the ν 1 , ν 4 and the ν 3 levels of CD 3 Cl following excitation by a 9.6 μ Q-switch CO 2 laser. A single V—T/R deactivation rate constant of 2.8 ms t-1 torr −1 is reported for the molecule. The rare gas dependence of this rate has also been measured for all the rare gases and found to range between 7.3 and 0.12 ms −1 torr −1 . The activation rate constants were found to be 490 ms −1 torr −1 for the ν 1 , ν 4 and 52 ms −1 torr −1 for the ν 3 levels. The assigned error limits are ± 10% for the deactivation and ± 20% for the activation rate constants. The relative magnitudes of the measured rate constants and the probabilities for their associated processes are discussed in terms of existing V—T/R theories and collisional transfer equations.
Osteogenic oxysterols inhibit the adverse effects of oxidative stress on osteogenic differentiation of marrow stromal cells

The osleoporosis that occurs with aging is associated with reduced number and activity of osteoblastic cells. Aging, menopause, and osteoporosis are correlated with increased oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant defense mechanisms. We previously demonstrated that oxidative stress induced by a variety of compounds such as xanthine/ xanthine oxidase (XXO) and minimally oxidized LDL (MM-LDL) inhibit the osteogenic differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells. Oxysterols are a family of products derived from cholesterol oxidation that have important biological activities. Recently, we reported that a specific oxysterol combination consisting of 22(5)- or 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol and 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol has potent osteogenic properties in vitro when applied to osteoprogenitor cells including M2-10B4 (M2) marrow stromal cells. We now demonstrate that this osteogenic combination of oxysterols prevents the adverse effects of oxidative stress on differentiation of M2 cells into mature osteoblastic cells. XXO and MM-LDL inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of M2 cells, demonstrated by the inhibition of markers of osteogenic differentiation: alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin expression and mineralization. Treatment of M2 cells with osteogenic oxysterol combination 22(S)- and 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol both blocked and reversed the inhibition of osteogenic differentiation produced by XXO and MM-LDL in these cells. The protective effect of the oxysterols against oxidative stress was dependent on cyclooxygenase I and was associated with the osteogenic property ol the oxysterols. These findings further demonstrate the ability of the osteogenic oxysterols to positively regulate osteogenic differentiation of cells, and suggests that the use of these compounds may be a novel strategy to prevent the adverse effects of oxidative stress on osteogenesis.
DNA Damage Modulates Nucleolar Interaction of the Werner Protein with the AAA ATPase p97/VCP

We report a novel nucleolar interaction between the AAA ATPase p97/VCP and the Werner protein (WRNp), a member of the RecQ helicase family. p97/VCP mediates several important cellular functions in eucaryotic cells, including membrane fusion of the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi and ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation. Mutations in the WRN gene cause Werner syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by premature onset of aging symptoms, a higher incidence of cancer, and a high susceptibility to DNA damage caused by topoisomerase inhibitors. We observed that both WRNp and valosin-containing protein (VCP) were present in the nucleoplasm and in nucleolar foci in mammalian cells and that WRNp and p97/VCP physically interacted in the nucleoli. Importantly, the nucleolar WRNp/VCP complex was dissociated by treatment with camptothecin, an inhibitor of topoisomerase I, whereas other WRNp-associated protein complexes, such as WRNp/Ku 80, were not dissociated by this drug. Because WRN syndrome cells are sensitive to topoisomerase inhibitors, these observations suggest that the VCP/WRNp interaction plays an important role in WRN biology. We propose a novel role for VCP in the DNA damage response pathway through modulation of WRNp availability.
Chemoattractant signaling between tumor cells and macrophages regulates cancer cell migration, metastasis and neovascularization.

Tumor-associated macrophages are known to influence cancer progression by modulation of immune function, angiogenesis, and cell metastasis, however, little is known about the chemokine signaling networks that regulate this process. Utilizing CT26 colon cancer cells and RAW 264.7 macrophages as a model cellular system, we demonstrate that treatment of CT26 cells with RAW 264.7 conditioned medium induces cell migration, invasion and metastasis. Inflammatory gene microarray analysis indicated CT26-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages upregulate SDF-1α and VEGF, and that these cytokines contribute to CT26 migration in vitro. RAW 264.7 macrophages also showed a robust chemotactic response towards CT26-derived chemokines. In particular, microarray analysis and functional testing revealed CSF-1 as the major chemoattractant for RAW 264.7 macrophages. Interestingly, in the chick CAM model of cancer progression, RAW 264.7 macrophages localized specifically to the tumor periphery where they were found to increase CT26 tumor growth, microvascular density, vascular disruption, and lung metastasis, suggesting these cells home to actively invading areas of the tumor, but not the hypoxic core of the tumor mass. In support of these findings, hypoxic conditions down regulated CSF-1 production in several tumor cell lines and decreased RAW 264.7 macrophage migration in vitro. Together our findings suggest a model where normoxic tumor cells release CSF-1 to recruit macrophages to the tumor periphery where they secrete motility and angiogenic factors that facilitate tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
Infrared and Raman spectra, conformational stability, vibrational assignment, and ab initio calculations of chloromethyl isocyanate

Abstract The infrared (3200 to 400 cm −1 ) and Raman (3200 to 20 cm −1 ) spectra of gaseous and solid chloromethyl isocyanate, CICH 2 NCO, have been recorded. Also, the Raman spectrum of the liquid and qualitative depolarization values have been obtained. Additionally, infrared spectra have been recorded at various temperatures with the sample dissolved in liquid xenon. An assignment of the fundamental vibrations based on the infrared band contours, depolarization values and group frequencies is given and discussed. This assignment is supported by a normal coordinate analysis utilizing a force field obtained from ab initio calculations with the RHF/6-31G ∗ basis set as well as with electron correlation, MP2/6-31G ∗ . A complete equilibrium geometry has been determined by ab initio gradient calculations employing the RHF/3-21G ∗ , RHF/6-31G ∗ and MP2/6-31G ∗ basis sets. The potential surface governing internal rotation about the C-N bond is calculated to be consistent with a single minimum corresponding to a structure having the chlorine atom cis or near-cis to the NCO moiety. These results are compared with the corresponding quantities for ethyl isocyanate, CH 3 CH 2 NCO, and related compounds.
The Rate of Phosphatase Inactivation in Milk

The phosphatase test over a period of years has proved to be an excellent method of determining whether holder-processed milk is pasteurized properly. Its wide acceptance by industry and health authorities is based on research and the ease and speed with which the results are obtained. In England, where Kay and Graham (10) first introduced the test in 1933, milk must be heated to and held a t 145 ° F for 30 minutes to be considered pasteurized. In addition, the enzyme must be inactivated completely. In areas where the pasteurization temperature may be 142 or 143 ° F with a 30-minute holding period and a partial inactivation of the enzyme is acceptable, the interpretation of the results may vary considerably. Evidence of this is noted readily in the several modifications of the phosphatase test and standards which are recognized and used (1). Kay and Graham (10, 11) and other workers (5, 7, 8, 9, 15, 16) have recognized that the time required to heat the milk to pasteurization temperature may affect the results of the test. This is especially true when higher temperatures of pasteurization are used, as in the flash process. The inactivation effect of the preheating time on flash-pasteurized milk may be great enough to indicate proper pasteurization, even though the milk was not held at the required temperatures for the necessary time. With the exception of a recently published study (8) no data were found in the literature indicating the exclusive effect of preheating time. Herschdorfer (6) published experimental data to show that an inverse relationship exists between the rate of cooling and the rate of phosphatase inactivation in milk. The purpose of this study is to determine the rate of phosphatase inactivation in milk with a minimum influence of either preheating or cooling time.
A Hebrew “sodomite” tale from thirteenth-century Toledo: Jacob Ben El‘azar's story of Sapir, Shapir, and Birsha

The purpose of this article is to provide a close reading of a thirteenth-century Hebrew narrative by Jacob Ben El‘azar of Toledo that recounts the tale of a “sodomite” who meets a violent end. The story focuses on the amorous affair of Sapir, an adult male, his beloved Shapir, a male youth around the age of puberty, and Birsha, a nefarious old man who lures Shapir away from Sapir, though Sapir ultimately seeks out Shapir and is reunited with him. Sapir and Birsha dispute over the boy and ultimately submit their case before a judge. The judge declares that Birsha deserves the death penalty, though he is spared this sentence and ordered only to forfeit the boy. Nevertheless, Sapir and Shapir take the law into their own hands and brutally murder Birsha. At the heart of the narrative is the tension between two models of eroticism between males, epitomized by the relationships of Sapir–Shapir and Birsha–Shapir, one sanctioned and the other condemned. The question that will be dealt with here is to determine w...
Identification of novel anti-apoptotic signals in prostate cancer stem cells

Background: Prostate cancer (PC) remains the second leading cause of male death in Western countries and has been on the rise in Qatar during the last decade. Recent studies established that unlike differentiated PC cells, PC stem cells (PCSC) display high tumorigenic and metastatic potential and become resistant to current therapy. Therefore therapeutic success depends on the ability to effectively kill PCSC. The disease progression to advanced stages is attributed to the development of anti-apoptotic signaling mechanisms in cancer cells activated by several growth factors and neuropeptides. Relatively little is known about the survival signaling mechanisms in PCSC. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the resistance of PCSC to current therapeutic regimens is of immense clinical interest. Objectives: The objectives of this study include the identification in PC stem cells of the anti-apoptotic mechanisms activated by growth factors and neuropeptides that overexpress in advanced PC, and to address how these survival agonists modulate self-renewal of PCSC. Methods: The PCSC were sorted from cancer cell lines and enriched. Apoptosis was induced in PCSC by inhibiting the survival of kinase PI3K using pharmacological inhibitor, LY294002. The cytoprotective and self-renewal effects of growth factors and neuropeptides were assessed. Results: Using stem cell specific markers, we isolated PCSC population (CD44+CD22-) form human PC cell lines, and enriched them by forming prostatospheres using anchorage independent serum free conditions. Treatment with LY induced apoptosis in PCSC, while EGF and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) protected PCSC from apoptosis. We show that the cytotoxic effects of LY are mediated by dephosphorylating a pro-apoptotic BCl-2 family protein BAD, while cytoprotective effects of both EGF and VIP are mediated by inducing re-phosphorylation of BAD. Both EGF and VIP enhanced the self-renewal capacity of PCSC by producing increased numbers of prostatospheres. Conclusions: EGF and VIP not only protect from apoptosis, but also increase self-renewal of PCSC. The BAD seems to act as a signaling node that control both apoptosis and survival, thus qualifies as a better therapeutic target. Attempts are being made to identify mechanisms induced by these survival agonists; and identify the correlation between disease progression and BAD expression/phosphorylation in PC clinical samples.
Na-K-2Cl cotransport in winter flounder intestine and bovine kidney outer medulla: [3H] bumetanide binding and effects of furosemide analogues.

The effects of several sulfamoyl benzoic acid derivatives on Na−K−Cl cotransport were investigated in winter flounder intestine. The relative efficacy (IC50 values) and order of potency of these derivatives were benzmetanide, 5×10−8 m> bumetanide 3×10−7 m>piretanide 3×10−6 m>furosemide 7×10−6 m> amino piretanide 1×10−5 3-amino-4-penoxy-5-sulfamoyl benzoic acid. Binding of [3H] bumetanide was studied in microsomal membranes from winter flounder intestine and compared to that in bovine kidney outer medulla. Binding was also studied in brush-border membranes from winter flounder intestine. The estimated values forK d and number of binding sites (n) were: bovine kidney,K d =1.6×10−7,n=10.5 pmol/mg protein; winter flounder intestine,K d 1.2×10−7,n=7.3 pmol/mg protein, and brush-border membranes from winter flounder,K d =5.3×10−7,n=20.4 pmol/mg protein. The estimatedK d for bumetamide binding to winter flounder brush-border membranes derived from association and dissociation kinetics was 6.8×10−7 m. The similarity in magnitudes of IC50 andK d for bumetanide suggests that the brush-border cotransporter is ordinarily rate-limiting for transmural salt absorption and that bumetanide specifically binds to the cotransporter. Measurement of bumetanide binding at various concentrations of Na, K and Cl showed that optimal binding required all three ions to be present at about 5mm concentrations. Higher Na and K concentrations did not diminish binding but higher Cl concentrations (up to 100mm Cl) inhibited bumetanide binding by as much as 50%. Still higher Cl concentrations (500 and 900mm) did not further inhibit bumetanide binding. Scatchard analysis of bumetanide binding at 5 and 100mm Cl concentrations showed that bothK d andn were lower at the higher Cl concentration (5mm Cl:K d =5.29×10−7 m,n=20.4 pmol/mg protein; 100mm Cl:K d =2.3×10−7 m,n=8.8 pmol/mg protein). These data suggest two possibilities: that bumetanide and Cl binding are not mutually exclusive (in contrast to pure competitive inhibition) and that they each bind to separate sites or that two distinct bumetanide binding sites exist, only one of which exhibits Cl inhibition of binding. This inhibition would then be consistent with a competitive interaction with Cl.
Intelligent Design in the Public School Science Classroom

The ongoing battle to insert intelligent causes into the science classrooms has been met with political approval and scientific rejection. Administrators in the United States need to be aware of the law related to creationism and intelligent design in order to lead in local curricular battles. Although unlikely to appease the ID proponents, there is a purpose for ID in the classroom. ID can be used to illustrate the foundational epistemological structure of science, which requires natural explanations and empirical data as opposed to revelation, tradition, and authority.
Response of human immunodeficiency virus lymphomas to highly active anti-retroviral therapy without chemotherapy: report of four patients and literature review

We report four HIV-related lymphoma patients, and review those from eight other published studies, who responded rapidly and durably to highly-active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) alone. Nine of ...
Synergistic interaction of ozone and respirable aerosols on rat lungs. IV. Protection by quenchers of reactive oxygen species.

In previous studies we have shown interactions between ozone and acidic respirable aerosols as evaluated by sensitive biochemical and quantitative morphological endpoints. In the present paper we have attempted to test the hypothesis that active oxygen species might play a role in lung damage caused by ozone +/- sulfuric acid aerosol. Rats were administered various scavengers of active oxygen species via the intraperitoneal (i.p.) route before and during exposure to 0.12, 0.20, or 0.64 ppm of ozone +/- 0.04, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, or 1.0 mg/m3 of sulfuric acid aerosol. Vitamin E, a lipid-soluble free radical scavenger, beta-carotene (the precursor of vitamin A), a singlet oxygen scavenger, and dimethylthiourea, a hydrogen peroxide scavenger, were tested. Dimethylthiourea at doses of 50-500 mg/kg per day was able to protect rats from the effects of ozone, suggesting a role for hydrogen peroxide in ozone-induced lung damage in vivo. Neither vitamin E nor beta-carotene at 100 mg/kg doses had any protective activity in our experiments, despite documentation of increased lung content of the scavengers in animals receiving these agents. These results suggest that water solubility may play a role in the efficacy of the scavenging agents under our exposure protocols. We conclude that: (1) hydrogen peroxide may be involved in ozone-induced lung damage; and (2) that lung injury by ozone and by ozone + sulfuric acid aerosol may share common pathways.
Quantitative protein sequencing using mass spectrometry: Use of low lonizing voltages in mass spectral analysis of methyl- and phenylthiohydantoin amino acid derivatives

Abstract The mass spectra of eighteen methylthiohydantoin and thirteen phenylthiohydantoin amino acid derivatives have been recorded at electron energies of 11, 20, and 70 electron volts. It is observed that the spectra of the majority of the derivatives studied were considerably reduced in complexity, containing in some cases only the molecular ion. In all the cases with three exceptions, the molecular ion was the base peak of the low-voltage spectrum. The loss of sensitivity at lower ionizing voltages was measured for a number of compounds and the sensitivity as measured by ion abundance was observed to be at a maximum around 20 eV and to decrease rapidly at lower energies. The use of low-energy electron impact ionization is compared to chemical ionization and the advantages and disadvantages discussed.
Anatomic comparison to arbitrary reference notch on Hanau articulators

T he face-bow registers the glenomaxillary relationship in three planes (anteroposteriorly, laterally, and vertically). The anteroposterior and lateral positions are determined by the anatomic relationship between the maxillae and the glenoid fossa. The vertical position, i.e., the anterior reference point, has been determined by various techniques. One recommended method of locating the vertical position when using Hanau articulatorsf is to elevate the maxillary cast while the face-bow is still attached to the articulator until the maxillary incisal edges (or maxillary wax rim) are aligned to the level of a groove on the incisal guide pin. This groove is 30 mm below the horizontal condylar plane (a plane described by the center of the condylar spheres and the infraorbital indicator; see Fig. 5) and is called the in&al reference notch. Unfortunately, the location of this groove bears no relation to the anatomic anterior reference point (orbitale). In other words, the 30 mm measurement is not calibrated to approximate the average distance between the orbitale and the maxillary incisal edges. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the average orbitale-maxillary incisal edge distance and to compare this measurement to the incisal reference notch of the Hanau articulators.
Immunohistochemical examination of lichen nitidus suggests that it is not a localized papular variant of lichen planus.

Background: Lichen nitidus is believed, by some, to be a variant of lichen planus, and by others to be a distinct entity. Objective: We examined five cases of lichen nitidus with immunohistochemical reagents designed to characterize the dermal inflammatory infiltrate in an attempt to resolve the uncertainty. Methods: We stained formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections with the following antibodies: L26, A6, KP1, BerH2, OPD4, and HECA-452. Results: The inflammatory infiltrate was 90% A6+, with few L26+ cells. In contrast to lichen planus, KP1+ macrophages were seen and fewer of the lymphocytes demonstrated HECA452. Fifty percent to 80% of lymphocytes were OPD4 positive, similar to that usually seen in lichen planus. Rare Ki-1+ cells were seen in one case. Conclusion: We believe that the pattern of a mixed cellular infiltrate characterized by macrophages and a helper T cell response with few HECA-452+ cells is somewhat different from the pattern seen in lichen planus, wherein almost all of the cells are CD4+HECA-452+ lymphocytes. This suggests a different immunologic pathogenesis.
Alloreactive T cells respond specifically to multiple distinct peptide-MHC complexes.

The molecular basis underlying the specificity of alloreactive T cells for peptide–major histocompatibility complex ligands has been elusive. Here we describe a screen of 60 I-Ek-alloreactive T cells and 83 naturally processed peptides that identified 9 reactive T cells. Three of the T cells responded to multiple, distinct peptides that shared no sequence homology. These T cells recognized each peptide–major histocompatibility complex ligand specifically and used a distinct constellation of I-Ek contact residues for each interaction. Our studies show that alloreactive T cells have a 'germline-encoded' capacity to recognize multiple, distinct ligands and thus show 'polyspecificity', not degeneracy. Our findings help to explain the high frequency of alloreactive T cells and provide insight into the nature of T cell specificity.
Guidewire-Related Complications during Central Venous Catheter Placement: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Seldinger's technique is widely used to place central venous and arterial catheters and is generally considered safe. The technique does have multiple potential risks. Guidewire-related complications are rare but potentially serious. We describe a case of a lost guidewire during central venous catheter insertion followed by a review of the literature of this topic. Measures which can be taken to prevent such complications are explained in detail as well as recommended steps to remedy errors should they occur.
External L5–S1 joint moments when lifting wire mesh screen used to prevent rock falls in underground mines

Abstract Bolting large sheets of wire mesh screen (WMS) to the roof of underground mines prevents injuries due to rock falls. However, WMS can be heavy and awkward to lift and transport, and may result in significant spinal loading. Accordingly, six male subjects (mean age = 45.8 years + 7.5 SD) were recruited to lift WMS in a laboratory investigation of the biomechanical demands. Biomechanical modeling was used to estimate external moments about L5–S1 for sixteen lifting tasks, using two sizes of WMS. Full-size WMS involved a two-person lift, while half-size WMS involved a one-person lift. Lifts were performed under 168 cm and 213 cm vertical space. Restriction in vertical space increased the maximum L5–S1 extensor moment from 254 to 274 Nm and right lateral bending moment from 195 to 251 Nm. Lifting full sheets of screen (as opposed to half sheets) resulted in an average 33 Nm increase in L5–S1 extensor moment. The L5–S1 extensor moment was increased by an average of 44 Nm (18%) when lifting screens positioned flat on the floor compared to an upright position. Relevance to industry Large flexible materials are commonly lifted in industrial work environments, and may involve the efforts of two or more workers. The current study examines the low back loading associated with lifting large flexible screens and presents recommendations to reduce spine loading.
Pressure Differentials for Radon Entry Coupled to Periodic Atmospheric Pressure Variations

A dedicated research house is used to investigate the interactions of the house, and atmosphere on indoor radon concentrations. Semi-diurnal variations of atmospheric pressure, resulting from atmospheric tides, are observed to produce differential pres- sures capable of driving radon-containing sail gas into slab-on-grade structures built over low permeability soils. These naturally induced pressure differentials could continue to provide major contributions to radon entry when other sources of house pressurization or depressurization, and consequently outdoor air infiltration rates, are small. The observed driving force pressure differentials are well predicted from atmospheric pressure changes by a simple model based on an exponentially damped response of the sub-slab pressures to changes in atmospheric pressure. The observed radon entry rates are in good agreement with the predictions of radon entry models developed by other investigators when time-averaging of the driving forces is applied.