cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 1276: UV radiation interacts with Endothelin 3 and loss of nucleotide excision repair pathway to promote melanomagenesis.

Melanomagenesis is influenced by the interaction of environmental (such as UV radiation) and genetic factors. The Xpa gene is important in the Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) pathway. Similar to humans afflicted with Xeroderma Pigmentosum, which results from mutations in genes that play a role in NER, Xpa deficient mice show high sensitivity to UV light, leading to skin cancer development. However, Xpa deficient mice do not develop melanoma even upon UV exposure. The Endothelin 3 (Edn3) signaling pathway is essential for proliferation, survival and migration of melanocyte precursor cells. In humans, this pathway has also been implicated in melanoma progression and its metastatic potential. The purpose of this study is to develop a UV induced melanoma mouse model that combines Xpa deficiency with the over-activation of the Edn3 pathway. To this end, transgenic mice over-expressing Edn3 under the control of the keratin 5 promoter (K5-Edn3) and carrying a targeted mutation in Xpa were exposed to a single suberythemal neonatal dose of UV radiation. A subgroup of mice was also exposed to a second dose of UV radiation at 6 weeks of age. Histomorphology and immunostaining were used to confirm the melanocytic origin of primary skin tumors and metastases. Melanoma was only found in animals with the K5-Edn3 transgene. High penetrance was observed in animals exposed to one dose of UV radiation that were Xpa null (100%, n=3) when compared to Xpa heterozygous (73%, n=11) or Xpa wild type (43%, n=7). Enlarged and hyperpigmented lymph nodes were present in animals with melanoma skin lesions and these were diagnosed as local metastases. These results indicate that UV radiation exposure, in conjunction with over-activation of the Edn3 pathway is sufficient to lead to melanomagenesis in mice. Citation Format: Ana Paula Benaduce, Deannys Batista, Gabriel Grilo, Karen Jorge, Lidia Kos. UV radiation interacts with Endothelin 3 and loss of nucleotide excision repair pathway to promote melanomagenesis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1276. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1276
OXIDATION OF SO2 IN DROPLETS WHICH CONTAIN SOOT PARTICLES

A laboratory fog chamber was constructed in which water droplets or droplets containing soot particles could be exposed to SO2. For wet particles exposed to 0.007 ppm < [SO2] < 222 ppm, the maximum experimentally observed carbon-normalized rate of particulate sulfate formation was d[SO42−/C]/dt = 8 × 10−6(gSO42−)(gC−1)s−1. The rate expression, −[S(IV)]dt=k[C].α[S(IV)]21+β[S(IV)]+α[S(IV)]2, was determined for the reaction. Under atmospheric conditions, this rate expression indicates that the effective order for the oxidation of S(IV) depends on environmental conditions and ranges between 0.1 and 1.6.
Preferential binding of an odor within olfactory receptors: a precursor to receptor activation.

Using computational methods, which allow mechanistic insights at a molecular level, we explored the olfactory receptor (OR)–odor interactions for 2 mouse ORs, S79 and S86. Both ORs have been previously experimentally, functionally characterized. The odors used were mostly carboxylic acids, which differed in chain length, substituents on the primary carbon atom-chain and degree of unsaturation. These odors elicited varied activation responses from both ORs. Our studies revealed that both receptors have 2 distinct binding sites. Preferential binding in 1 of the 2 sites is correlated with OR activation. The activating odorants: nonanedioic acid, heptanoic acid, and octanoic acid for OR S79 and nonanoic acid for OR S86 preferentially bind in the region bound by transmembranes (TMs [helical domains]) III, IV, V, and VI. The non excitatory odorants heptanol for S79 and heptanoic acid for S86 showed a greater likelihood of binding in the region bound by TMs I, II, III, and VII. Nanosecond-scale molecular dynamics simulations of the physiologically relevant conditions of docked OR–odorant complexes enabled us to quantitatively assess the roles of individual OR amino acids in odor binding. Amino acid–odorant contact maps and distance determinations over the course of the simulations lend support to our conclusions.
Practical Synthesis of a Soluble Schiff Base Catalyst for the Asymmetric Strecker Reaction

Resin-bound catalyst 1awas identified as affordingoptimal enantioselectivity for a model imine hydro-cyanation reaction, and was applied successfully tothe enantioselective synthesis of Strecker adducts onpreparative scale. This polymer-supported catalystdisplayed important practical features, as it could bereisolated readily by simple filtration and recycled re-peatedly.
Myosin II functions in actin-bundle turnover in neuronal growth cones

Retrograde actin flow works in concert with cell adhesion to generate traction forces that are involved in axon guidance in neuronal growth cones. Myosins have been implicated in retrograde flow, but identification of the specific myosin subtype(s) involved has been controversial. Using fluorescent speckle microscopy (FSM) to assess actin dynamics, we report that inhibition of myosin II alone decreases retrograde flow by 51% and the remaining flow can be almost fully accounted for by the 'push' of plus-end actin assembly at the leading edge of the growth cone. Interestingly, actin bundles that are associated with filopodium roots elongated by approximately 83% after inhibition of myosin II. This unexpected result was due to decreased rates of actin-bundle severing near their proximal (minus or pointed) ends which are located in the transition zone of the growth cone. Our study reveals a mechanism for the regulation of actin-bundle length by myosin II that is dependent on actin-bundle severing, and demonstrate that retrograde flow is a steady state that depends on both myosin II contractility and actin-network treadmilling.
Alveolar macrophage phagocytosis is impaired in children with poorly controlled asthma

Background Lower respiratory tract infection is a differentiating feature of children with poorly controlled asthma. Objective Given the role of alveolar macrophages (AMs) in innate immunity, we hypothesized that AM phagocytosis might be impaired in poorly controlled asthma. Methods Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid AMs were isolated from 28 asthmatic children (moderate asthma, n=12; severe asthma, n=16), 10 nonasthmatic children with chronic cough treated with inhaled corticosteroids, and 10 healthy adult control subjects. AMs were stimulated with LPS and exposed to fluorescein isothiocyanate–conjugated Staphylococcus aureus for 2 hours. Phagocytosis was quantified by using a phagocytic index (PI) calculated from the percentage of phagocytic cells multiplied by the relative fluorescence (RFU) units of S aureus per cell. Apoptosis was determined from the percentage of cells positive for poly (adenosine diphosphate–ribose) polymerase. Results Phagocytosis as measured by using the unstimulated PI was decreased in subjects with poorly controlled asthma (healthy control subjects, 9330 ± 3992 RFU; chronic cough, 9042 ± 5976 RFU; moderate asthma, 4361 ± 2536 RFU; severe asthma, 3153 ± 1886 RFU; P P Conclusions AM function is compromised in children with poorly controlled asthma and is characterized by decreased phagocytosis and increased apoptosis.
Uncorrected refractive error

We need to act now to eliminate preventable blindness by the year 2020 In 1997, the World Health Organization set itself an ambitious goal to eliminate avoidable blindness in the world by 2020, with one of the five main priorities being refractive errors.1,2 A recent review of the impact of Vision 2020 on preventable blindness, other than uncorrected refractive errors, indicates that current estimates of global blindness are less than projected, and thus the trend is in the right direction to meet the Vision 2020 goal for the other conditions.3 The article by Fotouhi et al in this month’s issue of BJO (p 534) indicates that we are not doing so well on meeting the goal to eliminate vision impairment caused by uncorrected refractive error in Tehran. At this point, perhaps readers are thinking that the problem of uncorrected refractive error is unique to countries with relatively poorer healthcare systems. Let us consider the paper by Fotouhi et al in the global context of vision impairment caused by refractive errors. A PubMed search in January 2006 using the search strategy “uncorrected refractive error AND epidemiology” and “undercorrected refractive error AND epidemiology” revealed 19 population based studies of uncorrected refractive errors,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16, …
Localized f-electron antiferromagnetism, heavy fermion behavior and mixed valence in Ce(Tl1−xMx)3 with M = Sn and Pb

Abstract The temperature dependence of the specific heat C(T) and the magnetic susceptibility χ ( T ) have been measured for Ce ( Tl 1− x M x ) 3 with M = Sn and Pb, and for 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. The evolution of f-electron behavior from the Kondo lattice regime (CeTl 3 ) to heavy fermion behavior (CePb 3 ) and the mixed valence region (CeSn 3 ) is discussed.
TOWARD RELATIVIZATION OF PSYCHOPHYSICAL "RELATIVITY

Summary.-A paradoxical feature of Weber's law is considered. The law presumably states a principle of psychophysical relativity, yet a pre-relativistic physical measurement model has been traditionally employed. Classical physics, Einsteinian relativity and a newer interpremtion of the relativity concept are discussed. Their relation to psychophysics is examined. The domain wherein Weber's law breaks down is nored as suggestively similar to that in which physicists report relativistic effects. A tenracive hypothesis is offered to stimulate further thought about a more meaningful integration of psychophysics with modern physical science. Weber's law, a cornerstone of psychophysics, is traditionally regarded as expressing a general principle of relativity:
School dropouts: Characteristics and prevention

Abstract Our nation's secondary school dropout rate of 17–25% is at a historic low. Nevertheless, considerable concern exists about the enormous losses to individuals, families, and society associated with not completing high school. School, race, gender, and economic and family qualities associated with dropouts are reviewed briefly. General prevention principals are proposed together with more specific strategies involving youth, schools, family, and community. The goals are two pronged: (a) to provide systems that enable adequate achievement and achievement motivation, passing grades, feelings of affiliation with school and peers, and a stable support systems from peers, family, and the community; and (b) to be free of impediments that diminish suitable educational outcomes, including unsuitable school qualities, premature entrance into adulthood, and qualities that adversely affect students' physical and mental health.
The acidic transcriptional activation domains of VP16 and p53 bind the cellular replication protein A and stimulate in vitro BPV-1 DNA replication

For papillomavirus DNA replication, the E2 enhancer protein cooperatively assists in binding of the E1 helicase to the origin. We report that, at limiting E1 and E2 levels, the enhancer proteins GAL4-VP16 and GAL4-p53(1-73) stimulate BPV in vitro DNA replication. This cell-free system was used to ascertain whether the acidic activation domains have a cellular target important for replication. Cellular extracts were depleted of replication activity by passage through a VP16 affinity column. The protein depleted was the cellular factor replication protein A. The direct interaction between replication protein A and VP16, as well as the activation of replication by VP16, is dependent upon the C-terminus of the VP16 activation domain. E2 and the activation domain of p53 also interact with replication protein A. We suggest that a link between transcription and replication involves factors that help convert a closed DNA complex to an open complex.
Dispersive Temporal Compression of the Energy in Laser Pulses: A Review

Analagous to chirp radar compression schemes, the dispersive temporal compression of “chirped” light pulses has been discussed for many years now. Here we briefly review developments of these optical pulse compression techniques. This scheme can provide pulses so short that they would otherwise be unavailable, and such a scheme has the potential for improving the efficiency of short-pulse laser amplifier chains.
Increased Resistance to Oxidative Stress in Transfected Cultured Cells Overexpressing GlutathioneS-Transferase mGSTA4-4☆

Peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acids in membrane phospholipids is one of the multiple cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation is significant because a single initiating event triggers a chain reaction, thus amplifying the initial stimulus. Many oxidative stress-related pathologies have been linked to lipid peroxidation. Mouse glutathioneS-transferase mGSTA4-4 exhibits high glutathione conjugating activity with toxic products of lipid peroxidation, e.g., 4-hydroxynon-2-enal. In addition, mGSTA4-4 has glutathione peroxidase activity toward phospholipid hydroperoxides. On the basis of these catalytic properties, we have previously proposed that the enzyme may be physiologically important in alleviating the cytotoxic effects of lipid peroxidation. We have now experimentally confirmed this hypothesis by transfecting HepG2 cells withmGSTA4cDNA, and demonstrating a protective effect of expressed mGSTA4-4 protein on cells exposed during plating to H2O2, organic hydroperoxides, and phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide. As compared to cells transfected with insert-free vector, a larger proportion ofmGSTA4-transfected cells was able to attach to the culture dish, and continued to divide in the presence of the above compounds. In addition to alleviating the cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress, mGSTA4-4 may interfere with the subtoxic but cytostatic signals generated by a low-level pro-oxidant state.
Nickel- und Palladiumkatalyse bei der stereoselektiven Synthese funktionalisierter Pyrrolidine: enantioselektive formale Synthese von (+)-α-Allokainsäure

NeuroexcitatorischeNaturstoffe sind aus 1 nach Ni-katalysierter Cyclisierung, Austausch der Schutzgruppe und Pd-katalysierter Reduktion unter Doppelbindungsisomerisierung uber die Zwischenstufe 2 zuganglich. So kann durch diesen schrittweisen Aufbau von Stereozentren die excitatorische Aminosaure (+)-α-Allokainsaure, in der die Substituenten am Pyrrolidinring all-trans angeordnet sind, direkt und hochstereoselektiv erhalten werden. TBS=tert-Butyldimethylsilyl.
Performance and Energy Impact of Locally Controlled NML Circuits

This article quantitatively considers the performance of nanomagnetic logic circuits within the context of realistic drive circuitry. We also demonstrate how one of the five fundamental tenets of digital logic---preventing unwanted feedback---can be satisfied by realistic drive circuitry. More specifically, different types of multiphase clocks are investigated and compared. Initial projections suggest that even with drive circuitry overhead, nanomagnet logic can outperform subthreshold CMOS in terms of energy delay product---and paths to lower power exist.
Novel sesquiterpenoid matrix metalloproteinase-3 inhibitors from an acid mine waste extremophile

Berkeley Pit Lake is a 1500 ft deep abandoned open-pit copper mine filled with 30 billion gallons of acidic, metal-contaminated water. This harsh environment is proving to be a source of unusual, biologically active microorganisms. Bioassay-guided fractionation using signal transduction enzyme assays led to the isolation of three novel bisabolane sesquiterpenes and a novel coumarin. The isolation and characterization of these compounds are reported here.
Panic symptoms in chest pain without coronary artery disease: A comparison with panic disorder

Recent reports have suggested similarities in symptom profiles between patients with persistent chest pain without coronary artery disease (CAD) and patients with panic disorder. However, comparison of chest pain patients with an independent sample of patients presenting with symptoms of panic disorder has been lacking to date. The present study examined three groups of patients for painic symptom presence and severity: a sample with recurrent chest pain (CP, n=22) recruited from cardiologists, screened for normal coronary arteries and not selected a priori for psychiatric diagnoses; a sample of patients with panic disorder (PD, n=26) recruit from psychotherapists; and a sample of normal controls (NC, n=39) recurited from the same community. Compared with normals, both CP and PD patients reported significantly more panic symptoms Both CP and PD patients reported significantly more severe sensations of chest pain, dyspnea, paresthesias, and fear of having a heart attack. The three groups were different on reports of palpitations and dizziness, with the PD group reporting the greatest severity of these symptoms, followed by the CP group. The PD sample alone reported significantly greater severity of all other panic symptomatology, relative to the CP and NC samples. A discriminant function analysis indicated that the three groups could be differentated on the basis of symptom severity. These results suggest that notable differences exist in the nature and severity of symptom reports in these two patient groups, despite similarities between panic states and persistent non-organic chest pain as indicated by prior research.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL FREE-CHOICE LEARNING AND STUDENTS' LEARNING, ATTITUDES, AND POLICY VIEWS ABOUT WATERWAYS

Environmental free-choice learning is a strategy that has been shown to have positive short-term impacts upon participants' attitudes and understanding of desired educational outcomes. However, longitudinal studies in this area are rare due to difficulties inherent in data collection and vast differences in participants in these kinds of educational experiences. This study examined the effectiveness of participation in the Skunk River Navy, a free-choice environmental education experience, 1 - 4 years afterward to determine longitudinal effects of the experience on participants' attitudes toward waterways and content knowledge. Importantly, participants were compared to non-participants who were also biology majors in the same program, completed the same coursework, and who likely shared similar dispositions, interest in biology, and are of similar demographic backgrounds. Results indicate that attitudes toward waterways and content knowledge were higher among participants, but that content knowledge remains lower than desired by program developers. Therefore, when reducing the impact of selection and variance within the study population, longitudinal positive effects can be seen from free-choice learning experiences when they are coupled with formal classroom experiences that address similar concepts.
Potentiation of opioid analgesia by H1 and H2 antagonists.

Abstract The finding that abusers of pentazocine and tripelennamine experience a heroin-like euphoria which neither drug alone can produce prompted this study on the possible potentiation of opioid analgesia by H-antagonists. The reaction to pain in seconds was assessed at the time of peak drug effect by measuring the latency to jump from a hot plate at 55°C after drug administration in male Swiss Webster mice. Several H1 antagonists and the H2 antagonist cimetidine markedly potentiated analgesia of opioids (morphine, fentanyl and nalbuphine). No motor impairment occurred with any of the drugs and drug combinations at the doses studied. It is hypothesized that the H-antagonists may produce these effects by peripheral mechanisms or by a central action.
Social influence predictors of alcohol use among New York Latino youth.

We examined demographic and social influence predictors of adolescent drinking among New York City Latino adolescents, including specific Latino subgroups (i.e., Puerto Rican, Dominican, Colombian, and Ecuadorian). Sixth- and seventh-grade students (N = 3129) who identified themselves as Latino or Hispanic on the survey questionnaire comprised our Latino sample. The survey included self-reported frequency of alcohol use, demographic items, and measures of social influences for drinking. Logistic-regression analyses revealed that social influences (how many friends drink, attitudes of parents and friends toward respondent's drinking) are strong predictors of current drinking (defined as drinking at least once a month) for the overall sample of Latino youth, as well as for Puerto Rican youth and Dominican youth. Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for prevention.
Integrated-optical modulators for bandpass analog links

Integrated-optical interferometric modulators specifically designed and demonstrated for bandpass analog optical systems are described. Techniques such as nondissipative impedance matching for lumped-element modulators and electrooptic phase reversal for traveling-wave devices can provide substantially higher modulator response than conventional baseband designs. Recent results on the use of the polarization-mixing technique to improve modulator linearity at microwave frequencies are also discussed.
Passive sonar recognition and analysis using hybrid neural networks

The detection, classification, and recognition of underwater acoustic features have always been of the highest importance for scientific, fisheries, and defense interests. Recent efforts in improved passive sonar techniques have only emphasized this interest. In this paper, the authors describe the use of novel, hybrid neural approaches using both unsupervised and supervised network topologies. Results are presented which demonstrate the ability of the network to classify biological, man made, and geological sources. Also included are capabilities of the networks to attack the more difficult problems of identifying the complex vocalizations of several fish and marine mammalian species. Basic structure, processor requirements, training and operational methodologies are described as well as application to autonomous observation and vehicle platforms.
Progesterone alters biliary flow dynamics.

ObjectiveTo test the hypothesis that progesterone alters sphincter of Oddi and gallbladder function and, therefore, bile flow dynamics.Summary Background DataAlthough the effects of progesterone on the biliary tract have been implicated in the increased incidence of gallstones among women, the speci
A contingency theory of corruption: The effect of human development and national culture

Abstract Corruption is a world-wide problem that disproportionately affects those with the fewest personal and economic resources. It was hypothesized that human development restricts corruption, and the magnitude of such an effect is contingent upon the conditions of national culture. Measures were gathered for 68 countries that account for 80% of the world's population. Support was found for the main effect of human development on corruption. Consistent with contingency theory, results also indicate that the relation between human development and corruption is moderated by power distance and individualism. Implications for policy making to reduce corruption are discussed.
Microbending-induced crosstalk increase in heterogeneous multi-core fiber

Inter-core crosstalk of a heterogeneous multi-core fiber was experimentally observed to increase more than 10 dB by applying microbending to the fiber. The increase was described theoretically based on bending-radius dependence of the crosstalk.
Plasticity in α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor subunits in the rat dorsal horn following deafferentation

Abstract Immunostaining for GluR1 and GluR2/3 subunits of the α -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor is prominent in laminae I and II of the normal dorsal horn, with much less staining in deeper laminae. Three days after dorsal rhizotomy, image analysis demonstrates a significant decrease in staining density for both antibodies in the superficial dorsal horn. By contrast, staining density is significantly increased in laminae III, IV and the reticulated region of lamina V for GluR1 only. This increase suggests that AMPA receptors contribute to deafferentation or radicular pain by at least two mechanisms: (1) up-regulation of GluR1 subunits of the AMPA receptor in deeper laminae, and (2) enhanced Ca 2+ permeability of dorsal horn neurons because AMPA receptors lacking the GluR2 subunit are Ca 2+ permeable. Glutamate activation of these receptors could initiate or potentiate second messenger cascades that could well contribute to neuronal changes documented in the dorsal horn of deafferented animals.
A force field model for the transition structures of intramolecular nitrile oxide cycloadditions

Abstract A force field model for nitrile oxide cycloadditions accounts for observed diastereoselectivities in inter- and intramolecular reactions controlled by steric factors.
Analysis of an optimal sector design method

An existing Mixed Integer Programming optimal sector design method is implemented, analyzed, and improved. The original model is a powerful and convenient method of designing sectors, but frequently produces geometrically undesirable sector shapes. Also, solutions are sensitive to external parameters not related to the flight data that the solutions are based upon. Near-optimal solutions vary drastically with small changes in objective function value. The model is then altered to reduce this sensitivity and produce sector designs with a more favorable geometry. Additionally, a boundary smoothing method is applied that eliminates jagged boundary edges and produces a more realistic and feasible sector geometry.
Linkage mapping of the highly informative DNA marker D21S156 to human chromosome 21 using a polymorphic GT dinucleotide repeat.

Abstract A (GT)n repeat within the anonymous DNA sequence D21S156 was shown to be highly polymorphic in DNA from members of the 40 CEPH families. At least 12 alleles of this locus were recognized by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels of DNA amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers flanking the (GT)n repeat. The polymorphism information content was 0.82. PCR amplification of DNA from somatic cell hybrid lines mapped D21S156 to human chromosome 21 and linkage analysis localized this marker close to the loci ETS2, D21S3, and HMG14 on chromosomal band 21q22.3. This polymorphism is highly informative and can serve as anchor locus for human chromosome 21.
The influence of contrast agents on hemorrhage produced by lithotripter fields

Ultrasonic contrast agents greatly increase the side effects of low-amplitude lithotripter fields in mice. Using a piezoelectric lithotripter, adult mice were exposed to 200 lithotripter pulses with a peak positive pressure amplitude of 2 MPa. During the exposure period, mice were injected with ∼0.1 mL of the ultrasonic contrast agent Albunex®. For comparison, another group of mice experienced the same lithotripter exposures, but were not injected with contrast agent. Following exposures, animals were sacrificed and observed for hemorrhage in various organs and tissues. Mice exposed to the lithotripter field alone had minimal hemorrhage only in the intestine and lung. In comparison, mice injected with Albunex® during exposure exhibited extensive hemorrhage in the intestine, kidney, muscle, mesentery, stomach, bladder, seminal vesicle and fat.
Direct synthesis of 2,4,5-trisubstituted imidazoles from alcohols and α-hydroxyketones by microwave

This article reports a fast, simple and efficient method to synthesize highly substituted imidazoles. Green organic synthesis is needed to face current environmental pollution. For instance the replacement of hazardous organic compounds by safe alternatives is particularly relevant. Ionic liquids are an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional organic solvents due to their unique physicochemical properties. Substituted imidazoles have been widely used to prepare pharmaceuticals. Many synthetic approaches have been developed to produce substituted imidazoles. However, despite considerable efforts only a few green methods are reported for the synthesis of highly substituted imidazoles. Here a straightforward and atom-economic approach is reported to synthesize a series 2,4,5-trisubstituted imidazoles directly from α-hydroxyketones and alcohols employing 1-methyl-3-H-imidazolium nitrate as a promoter and medium under microwave irradiation. The protocol has several advantages such as high yields of 77–91 %, short reaction times of 6–8 min, easy purification processes, and methodological simplicity due to the formation of carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds in a single step. The methodology has been further extended towards the facile synthesis of Trifenagrel in good yield. This method provides new opportunities for the rapid screening of a wide range of compounds, either for the development of new drugs or total synthesis of natural products.
Teleost Fish Islets: A Potential Source of Endocrine Tissue for the Treatment of Diabetes

Anatomical separation of pancreatic islets in some teleost fish makes them a useful source of pancreatic endocrine tissue. Islets were harvested from tropical Tilapia fish (Oreochromis nilotica) and cultured for 24 hr at 37°C. Eight athymic nude mice were rendered diabetic by streptozotocin (STZ) and transplanted under the kidney capsule with fish islets. After transplantation (Tx), nonfasting blood glucose (n-FBG), which was in all recipients >450 mg/dl, decreased to <100 mg/dl. At 4 and 7 weeks post-Tx, the intraperitoneal (ip) glucose tolerance test was performed in the normoglycemic Tx mice and in six normal controls. In controls, K value (percentage of decline in blood glucose/min) was 1.076 ± 0.383 and in Tx mice it was 0.956 ± 0.336 and 0.869 ± 0.483 at 4 and 7 weeks, respectively (P = n.s.). Nephrectomy raised the n-FBG to pre-Tx levels. On immunohistochemistry, recipient's pancreata showed atrophic islets with no β-cell granules, while the islet-bearing kidneys had distinct β-cells under their capsules. Alginate-embedded fish islets were encapsulated in permselective (25-kDa) cellulose membranes and implanted ip in six STZ-diabetic nude mice. On the following day, all recipients became normoglycemic and their n-FBG remained normal for 7 days. In one animal, the n-FBG was <200 mg/dl for 14 days and subsequent removal of the capsule raised the n-FBG to the pre-Tx level. Finally, it was found that fish islets can be cultured at 37°C for extended periods of time. Even after 22 weeks, well-granulated morphologically intact β-cells were seen on transmission electron microscopy. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that fish pancreatic islets can be maintained in culture for exceptionally prolonged periods of time, that they can successfully be transplanted in mammals, and that there is a potential for their use in the bioartificial pancreas. © 1995 Academic Press, Inc.
SU-GG-T-264: An Infrastructure Towards Better and Safer Radiation Therapy-Quality Assurance Information System (QAIS)

Purpose: To develop an infrastructure to perform digital, automatic, intelligent, process‐oriented, and patient safety‐oriented quality control in radiation oncology. To leverage an electronic infrastructure to use advanced information processing techniques, proactive quality control tools, employ automated and intelligent systems and facilitate standardization, data sharing & benchmarking in radiation oncologyquality control program Method: An web based centralized data management system called Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology Quality AssuranceInformation System ( MIR‐QAIS) was developed to collect manage and analyzequality assurance data. Several tools that could leverage the electronic environment was developed such as automated quality control for patient specific IMRT delivery, electronic chart checking, workflow monitor and manager, status reporting with dashboards, calculation based quality assurance,data mining tools for data informatics, document management component, incident reporting for organizational learning etc. This infrastructure has facilitated us to go completely paperless including all quality assurance tasks. Also all the test that are in developed is to perform quality control rather than quality assurance. The infrastructure was designed for easy record keeping, auditing, and compliance and to facilitate standardization and benchmarking. Results: We have developed a web based infrastructure to practice quality control in radiation oncology. Several tools were developed leveraging this infrastructure. Web‐based QA documents for Machine QA with statistical analysis tools, alerts and warnings, Dynalog based automated patient specific QA, Electronic chart check, automatic QA plan generation through scripts, intelligent review of plan quality, technical aspects of plan and logical consistency using scripts are to name a few. Conclusion: The electronic web based QAIS infrastructure has facilitated and would continue to aid in developing effective quality control program to practice better and safer radiation therapy.
The Lure of a Proposition: The Erotic Nature of the Lord’s Prayer as a Contradiction to Coercive Power

The vision of the kingdom of God (basileia) outlined in Matthew’s version of the Lord’s Prayer is a proposition meant to lure us into greater relationship and more harmonious feeling. The Christian idea that God is love must move beyond simple agapic language and embrace an erotic understanding as well. The desire to be in deeper relationship—the core of erōs—is at the core of the Christian message.
Inhibition of hepatocyte proteolysis and lactate gluconeogenesis by chloroquine

Abstract Chloroquine (50 μ m ) is rapidly taken up by isolated hepatocytes in a temperature-dependent manner. It inhibits glucose synthesis from lactate, but not from pyruvate or dihydroxyacetone. The inhibition is reversed by lysine or ammonia but not by oleate or carnitine. Ammonia inhibits chloroquine uptake by the hepatocytes but lysine does not. Chloroquine also inhibits urea synthesis, the release of ninhydrin-reacting substances, the accumulation of amino acids, and the lactate-dependent accumulation of glutamate. Ethanol oxidation in the presence of lactate is also inhibited, and this too is reversed by lysine. Chloroquine increases the redox state of the cytosolic compartment, as evidenced by lactate-to-pyruvate ratios, of hepatocytes prepared from both 48-h fasted and meal-fed rats. The above findings are consistent with chloroquine entering the lysosomes of the hepatocytes and inhibiting proteolysis by raising the lysosomal pH. Isolated hepatocytes are deficient in amino acids and, chloroquine inhibition of proteolysis prevents replenishment of the amino acid pools. Thus, chloroquine prevents reconstitution of the malate-aspartate shuttle required for the movement of reducing equivalents into the mitochondrion during lactate gluconeogenesis, ethanol oxidation, and glycolysis. The metabolic competency of freshly isolated hepatocytes, therefore, depends on the replenishment of amino acid pools by lysosomal breakdown of endogenous protein. Furthermore, chloroquine uptake may be an index of lysosomal function with isolated hepatocytes.
Recombinant human superoxide dismutase (h-SOD) fails to improve recovery of ventricular function in patients undergoing coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND Animal studies have demonstrated a burst of oxygen free radical generation after reperfusion of ischemic myocardium that could be blocked by administration of the free radical scavenger recombinant human superoxide dismutase (h-SOD). A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was designed to test the hypothesis that free radical-mediated reperfusion injury could be reduced by intravenous administration of h-SOD begun before percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in patients with acute transmural myocardial infarction. METHODS AND RESULTS One hundred twenty patients were randomized to receive placebo (n = 59) or h-SOD (n = 61) given as a 10-mg/kg intravenous bolus followed by a 60-minute infusion of 0.2 mg.kg-1.min-1. Left ventricular function was analyzed via paired contrast left ventriculograms performed before PTCA and after 6 to 10 days and paired radionuclide ventriculograms performed within 24 hours of PTCA and after 4 to 6 weeks. Both h-SOD- and placebo-treated patients showed improvement in global and regional left ventricular function after successful reperfusion. Compared with the placebo group, no additional improvement was observed in the patients treated with h-SOD. CONCLUSIONS The results of this clinical trial failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect of h-SOD on global or regional left ventricular function in patients who underwent successful PTCA for treatment of acute myocardial infarction.
Photocurrents of single retinal rods from Rana pipiens tadpoles

Outer segment membrane current was recorded from single rod photoreceptors of Taylor-Kollros State III and Stage XXIII tadpoles. Response-intensity relations and kinetics of the photocurrent were similar to those of audit amphibian photoreceptors, suggesting that phototransduction is quantitatively similar in developing rods and adult rods. Maximum response amplitude was about 1/3 that of adult rods, probably because of the shorter length of the outer segment in tadpoles (20 vs 50 micrometers).
Remarkable strain-induced magnetic anisotropy in epitaxial Co2MnGa (0 0 1) films

Remarkably large, strain-induced anisotropy is observed in the thin-film Heusler alloy Co 2 MnGa. 30 nm Co 2 MnGa (001) films have been epitaxially grown on different interlayers/substrates with varied strain, and investigated with ferromagnetic resonance. The film grown on ErAs/InGaAs/InP experiences tension strain, resulting in an out-of-plane strain-induced anisotropy (∼1.1 × 10 6 erg/cm 3 ) adding to the effects of shape anisotropy. In contrast, the film grown on ScErAs/GaAs, experiences a compression strain, resulting in an out-of-plane strain-induced anisotropy (∼3.3 x 10 6 erg/ cm 3 ) which almost totally cancels the effects of shape anisotropy, thus rendering the film virtually isotropic. This results in the formation of stripe domains in remanence. In addition, small, but well-defined 2-fold and 4-fold in-plane anisotropy coexist in each sample with weak, but interesting strain dependence. Transport measurement shows small (<1%) magnetoresistance effects in the compression film, but negligible magnetoresistance in the relaxed and tension strained samples.
Self-Identification as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Gambling-Related Perceived Norms and Gambling Behavior

This research was designed to evaluate social influences and perceived social norms on gambling behavior among undergraduate students. Furthermore, this research was designed to replicate and extend previous research demonstrating that young adults overestimate the prevalence of gambling among peers, and that the magnitude of overestimation is positively associated with own use (Larimer and Neighbors, Psychol Addict Behav 17:235-243, 2003). We expected that; (1) gambling college students would identify more strongly with other gambling students compared to other students in general; (2) identification with other gambling students would predict gambling behaviors over and above perceived prevalence of gambling; and (3) identification with other gambling students would moderate the association between perceived social norms and gambling behavior. Participants included 1,486 undergraduate students who completed measures assessing gambling quantity and frequency, gambling-related perceived descriptive norms, and identification with groups. Results revealed that perceived norms for gambling were associated with gambling and revealed that students identified more strongly with other students than either gamblers or student gamblers. However, gambling behavior was more strongly associated with identification with gambling students than students in general. There was consistent support for the perspective that social identity moderates the association between perceived norms for gambling and gambling behavior. This research builds on previous examinations of social influences related to gambling and suggests that it may be important to consider the overall prevalence of a given behavior before considering norms-based intervention approaches. Interventions utilizing social norms for gambling may be advised to consider references other than just the typical student.
Psychometric Properties of the Central Life Interest Inventory

Recent work has questioned the psychometric properties of the Central Life Interest Inventory. This study of 173 subjects ranging from office clerks to corporate vice presidents demonstrated acceptable coefficients of stability for that instrument under a variety of assumptions and methods. An admonition to reassess conceptual and empirical work relying on this instrument may have been premature.
Pharmacokinetic comparison of two triphasic oral contraceptive formulations containing levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol

Abstract The pharmacokinetics of levonorgestrel (LNG) and ethinylestradiol (EE 2 ) were determined in 24 women (aged 21 to 35 years), following the administration of a single tablet from the second phase of two different triphasic preparations (Triphasil (R) and Trinordiol (R) . Each tablet contained 0.075 mg of LNG and 0.040 mg of EE 2 . The data were compared to the pharmacokinetics of LNG and EE 2 obtained following the oral administration of a hydroalcoholic solution (standard) containing the same steroids and dose. The study consisted of a randomized design in which the three formulations were administered to each of the 24 subjects in a three-period crossover pattern. Blood samples were taken at frequent intervals after dosing. Serum levels of LNG and EE 2 were measured by specific radioimmunoassays. The results show that both LNG and EE 2 in the Triphasil and Trinordiol tablets are bioeguivalent with respect to rate and extent of absorption. Furthermore, LNG, but not EE 2 , in both tablet formulations was bioequivalent to the solution dose. The serum concentration-time profiles for the three formulations showed that the range of mean peak levels was 2.3–2.8 ng/ml for LNG and 116–159 pg/ml for EE 2 . These levels were achieved within 2 hours in the majority of subjects. The ranges of mean values calculated for the areas under the curves were 15–16 ng.hr/ml for LNG and 1053–1390 pg.hr/ml for EE 2 . The ranges of mean values calculated for other pharmacokinetic parameters were: volume of distribution: LNG — 1.6–1.8 L/kg, EE 2 — 7.7–9.1 L/kg; clearance: LNG — 84–88 ml/hr/kg, EE 2 — 0.67–0.99 ml/hr/kg; half-life: LNG — 13–15 hr, EE 2 — 7–12 hrs.
A study of subharmonic injection locking for local oscillators

The analysis of a subharmonic injection locked local oscillator introduced here is based on a general nonlinear input-output model for the subharmonic synchronized oscillator. The results show the nth-order subharmonic injection locking oscillator is locked primarily by the nth harmonic output of an injected signal that is generated by the current-voltage nonlinearity of the active device. The measurement of subharmonic injection locking range, at factors of 1/2, 1/3, and 1/4, of a MESFET DRO (dielectric resonator oscillator) verified these results. >
Interspecies Scaling of Regional Drug Delivery

Calculation of the pharmacokinetic advantage of regional drug administration requires knowledge of the relevant intercompartment transport parameter. In a lumped model this is the blood (or plasma) flow rate for intra-arterial drug infusion or the permeability-area product for intraperitoneal or intrathecal administration. It is suggested that the perfusion of many tissues and the intrinsic permeability of the peritoneal surface or the brain-cerebrospinal fluid interface are similar among mammals. This provides a clear allometric basis for interspecies scaling based on organ size or surface areas. Intra-arterial or intrathecal treatment of the brain or meninges is a particularly interesting problem because of the relatively large brain of humans and because increased folding results in a cortical surface area that is almost proportional to brain size. Major unresolved issues remain concerning the distributed character of the processes such as streaming of drug infused into an artery and nonuniform mixing of cerebrospinal fluid.
Promising Results from a Cognitive Stimulation Program in Infancy: A Preliminary Report

The favorable results of the minimal stimulation program here described have important implications for all who provide health services for un derprivileged preschool children. The authors indicate that this project is the first which coordinates compensatory infant education with com plete health care, with the prime educator being a public health nurse.
Girling the girl and boying the boy: the production of adulthood in ancient Mesoamerica

Drawing on the work of Judith Butler, I analyse practices through which lifecycle transitions were marked on the bodies of sixteenth-century Aztec children. Because the production of disciplined adults was socially so significant, it was also profoundly conservative. I examine implications of this ethnohistoric study for earlier societies that formed part of a Mesoamerican longue duree. The interpretation of archaeologically excavated material is transformed when related to the life course. Examples discussed include new perspectives on Formative period (c. 1500-400 BC) costume ornaments, conventions of figural representation, and feasting in domestic quarters.
The Dopamine β‐Hydroxylase Inhibitor, Nepicastat, Reduces Different Alcohol‐Related Behaviors in Rats

Background Recent experimental data indicate that treatment with the selective dopamine β-hydroxylase inhibitor, nepicastat, suppressed different reward-related behaviors, including self-administration of chocolate and reinstatement of cocaine and chocolate seeking, in rats. This study was designed to extend to different alcohol-related behaviors the investigation on the “anti-addictive” properties of nepicastat. Methods Sardinian alcohol-preferring (sP) rats, selectively bred for excessive alcohol consumption, were exposed to different procedures of alcohol drinking and self-administration. Results Repeated treatment with nepicastat (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [i.p.], once daily for 10 consecutive days) produced a stable and dose-related reduction in daily alcohol intake in sP rats exposed to the homecage 2-bottle “alcohol (10% v/v) versus water” choice regimen with unlimited access. Acute treatment with nepicastat (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) completely suppressed the “alcohol deprivation effect” (i.e., the temporary increase in alcohol intake occurring after a period of abstinence; model of alcohol relapse episodes) in sP rats exposed to the 2-bottle choice regimen. Acute treatment with nepicastat (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) dose dependently and selectively reduced oral alcohol self-administration in sP rats trained to lever respond for alcohol (15% v/v) on a fixed ratio 4 schedule of reinforcement. Finally, combination of nepicastat (0, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) and alcohol (2 g/kg, intragastrically) did not alter spontaneous locomotor activity in sP rats. Conclusions Together, these data extend to alcohol the capacity of nepicastat to suppress different behaviors motivated by natural stimuli and drugs of abuse.