cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protease Catalyzed Reaction of Polyamine Incorporation into Protein

Radiolabeled putrescine incorporation into dimethyl casein is widely measured in transglutaminase assays. We assessed the hypothesis that proteases can catalyze this reaction. Acceleration of putrescine incorporation by chymotrypsin, subtilisin, and papain, all purified to homogeneity, was investigated, and all of the samples tested accelerated the reaction. These effects disappeared when the proteases were first boiled. The rate of incorporation was proportional to the enzyme concentration. The amount incorporated when chymotrypsin was tested was proportional to the reaction time. On the basis of these findings, we concluded that some proteases catalyze reactions with putrescine incorporation.
Otomastoiditis-related facial nerve palsy

A 9-year-old girl with persistent otitis media, despite antibiotic therapy developed a facial nerve palsy. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed ipsilateral mastoiditis, prompting admission for intravenous antibiotic and steroid therapies. Acute mastoiditis, uncommon in the post-antibiotic era, is usually diagnosed on physical examination findings, but two variants, masked mastoiditis or silent mastoiditis, may be difficult to appreciate clinically. Patients who present with facial nerve palsy in the setting of persistent otitis media should undergo CT scan for evaluation of intracerebral or extracerebral pathology, including mastoiditis. Failure to identify associated concomitant pathology may result in treatment failure or persistent neurological deficit.
Functional and anatomical evidence for different dopamine dynamics in the core and shell of the nucleus accumbens in slices of rat brain

The characteristics of dopamine (DA) uptake and release were compared in the core and shell of the nucleus accumbens (NAc). DA release was elicited from rat brain slices by local electrical stimulation, and its extracellular concentration was monitored with fast-scan cyclic voltammetry using Nafion-coated, carbon-fiber microelectrodes. The voltammetric results show that the values of DA release and uptake in the shell NAc are approximately one-third of those measured in the core region, and DA uptake in the shell was less sensitive than the core to inhibition by either cocaine or nomifensine. The density of [3H]mazindol binding sites in the NAc was examined by autoradiography and the shell was found to have an average of half the number of DA uptake sites measured in the core region. This combination of anatomical and functional results shows that DA neurotransmission in the shell NAc is distinct from that in the core region. These data are consistent with the view that multiple functional forms of the DA transporter, exhibiting disparate kinetics and pharmacology, exist in different brain regions that exhibit disparate kinetics and pharmacology. Different forms of the transporter, combined with different release kinetics and auto- and heteroreceptor activity, give a vast range of possibilities for regional variation in DA neurotransmission.
Efficient cuts for generating the non-dominated vectors for Multiple Objective Integer Linear Programming

In this paper, a branch and bound multi-objective based method is proposed for reaching the non-dominated set. Two types of nodes are considered in the tree-search. The first type characterises the non-integer solutions found which are transformed to integer solutions by applying a branching procedure. The second type of nodes contains an integer solution and in this case efficient cuts are established in order either to remove dominated integer vectors or to fathom them. The method is compared advantageously with two exact methods of the literature tailored for the general case and also analysed computationally on benchmarks of MCDM library.
Age as a prognostic factor in ovarian carcinoma: The gynecologic oncology group experience

Background. The Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) has completed six major randomized trials in advanced ovarian carcinoma over the 15-year period between 1976 and 1990. This large database of 2123 patients provides a well-studied patient population with which to examine the importance of age as a prognostic factor. Methods. The 2123 patients studied in the six GOG trials were analyzed as a group to determine important prognostic factors. Further analyses were then conducted to examine outcome by decade of life from younger than 40 years old to 70 years old and older and to evaluate the interaction of age with other significant prognostic variables. Results. Three major prognostic factors were identified as exerting an influence on patient outcome in the overall patient population: age, volume of residual disease, and performance status. With regard to the effect of age, patients older than 69 years of age exhibited significantly poorer survival than those younger, even after correction for stage, residual disease, and performance status. This was not altered by variations in drugs, doses, and schedules; but there was no evidence that older patients tolerated intensive schedules less well than younger patients. Conclusions. Two practical conclusions result from this analysis. First, there is no evidence that modification of the drugs and schedules that make up the regimens used can overcome the adverse effect of older age. Second, age does not adversely affect the dose intensity that can be achieved; hence, age in itself is not reason to withhold or attenuate intensive chemotherapy, particularly in light of the fact that older patients have a poorer prognosis.
Mass Balance Model for Enthalpy of Water Binding by a Mixture

A thermodynamic approach was based on sorption data over a wide range of water activity (aw) at each of three temperatures. The hypothesis tested was the total partial enthalpy change for the water of a mixture is equal to the sum of the partial enthalpy changes for the water of the individual ingredients at the same aw. This was tested with sorption data for starch, casein, sucrose, starch:casein (1:l) and starch:sucrose (9:l) at 7.2, 20 and 30°C. Experimental values for the starch:casein mixture were in agreement (±5%) with those calculated from data on the individual ingredients, validating the hypothesis for a mixture of polymers. The starch:sucrose indicated a greater variation as the sucrose concentration increased to saturation.
Cyclic GMP Induces Oscillatory Calcium Signals in Rat Hepatocytes

Abstract The ability of guanosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) to induce increases in the intracellular free calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) was studied at the single cell level in fura-2-loaded rat hepatocytes. Both 8-bromo-cGMP (Br-cGMP) and dibutyryl cGMP (db-cGMP) produced oscillatory [Ca2+]i increases in hepatocytes. In addition, Br-cGMP increased the frequency of agonist-induced spiking or converted [Ca2+]i oscillations into sustained nonoscillatory [Ca2+]i responses. Addition of the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside also produced oscillatory [Ca2+]i increases similar to those generated by cGMP analogues. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, cGMP-induced [Ca2+]i responses were significantly reduced and mainly appeared as single transient [Ca2+]i increases. The effects of cGMP analogues do not appear to be mediated by a secondary increase in cAMP or activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), since [Ca2+]i responses to cGMP analogues were inhibited by the G-kinase inhibitor 8-bromoguanosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-Br-cGMP[S]). Both Br-cGMP and db-cGMP also increased [Ca2+]i in the presence of the PKA inhibitor 8-bromoadenosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-Br-cAMP[S]) and when the cGMP-inhibitable cAMP phosphodiesterase activity was inhibited by pretreatment with siguazodan. Br-cGMP stimulated the Mn2+-induced quench of compartmentalized fura-2 in intact hepatocytes, indicating a site of action at the level of the Ca2+ stores. This locus was further supported by the finding that pretreatment of hepatocytes with Br-cGMP potentiated submaximal inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3)-induced Mn2+ quench in subsequently permeabilized hepatocytes. db-cGMP also decreased PKA-mediated back phosphorylation of the hepatic type-1 InsP3 receptor, indicating that G-kinase phosphorylates the InsP3 receptor at sites targeted by PKA. These data indicate that phosphorylation of the hepatic InsP3 receptor by G-kinase increases the sensitivity to InsP3 for [Ca2+]i release and is associated with the production of [Ca2+]i oscillations in single rat hepatocytes.
The influence of initial pressure and temperature on hydrogen-air-diluent detonations

Abstract We have studied the influence of pressure and temperature on the detonability of hydrogen-air-diluent mixtures diluted with steam or carbon dioxide. Detonation cell width measurements have been obtained from experiments conducted in a 0.43-m-diameter heated detonation tube. Calculations from a Zeldovich-von Neumann-Doring (ZND) model of a detonation with a detailed chemical-kinetic reaction mechanism for hydrogen oxidation are used to correlate the data. The data show a significant reduction in the ability of a diluent (excess air or hydrogen, carbon dioxide, or steam) to inhibit a detonation as the temperature is increased from 293 to 373 K. Only a small decrease in the cell width is observed with increasing pressure between approximately 1 and 3 atm for hydrogen-air mixtures diluted with steam or excess air. For conditions beyond which data exist, calculations based on the model yield results that indicate similar detonabilities of all mixtures considered at low initial pressures or high initial temperatures. Additionally, these results indicate minima in the cell width for variations in the initial pressure and temperature. The cell minima represent approximately the location of a change in a rate-limiting mechanism corresponding to the extended classical second-limit criterion.
Light-induced phosphorylation of rod outer segments by guanosine triphosphate.

Abstract Significant GTP-dependent protein kinase activity is present in isolated photoreceptors of the retina. No transfer of the γ- 32 P group from GTP-γ- 32 P to ATP was detected. Although no stimulation of GTP-kinase activity by cyclic GMP or cyclic AMP was observed, exposure of dark-adapted photoreceptors to light resulted in a 46-fold increase in protein phosphorylation.
Headache and facial pain-the newest section of pain medicine.

This March 2013 issue of Pain Medicine features the introduction of a section dedicated to articles on headache and facial pain. This new section represents an exciting opportunity for headache and facial pain authors to reach clinicians, scientists, and educators with diverse interests within the field of pain. Likewise, inclusion of headache and facial pain manuscripts within the pages of Pain Medicine will expose the current journal readership to articles that they may not otherwise typically read. We hope that the headache and facial pain section will lead to greater interest in the clinical and scientific aspects of headache and facial pain among pain specialists, to stronger collaborations between pain specialists and headache specialists, and ultimately to new scientific advances and improvements in the care of our headache and pain patients. Headache and facial pain exert substantial impacts on individual sufferers and on society. The worldwide prevalence of active headache disorders is approximately 47%, with 3% of the …
Communication: Critical dynamics and nuclear relaxation in lipid bilayers.

Membrane composition fluctuations affect deuterium nuclear magnetic relaxation in lipid bilayers. The time dependence of the fluctuations depends on lipid diffusion. Near a miscibility critical point this diffusion involves an advective hydrodynamic coupling to the aqueous phase. The corresponding diffusion coefficient depends on both the critical length and the fluctuation wavelength. We calculate the effects of these dynamics on transverse deuterium nuclear relaxation in the 0.1o–10o range above the critical temperature.
Sitemaps, storyboards, and specifications: a sketch of Web site design practice

Through a study of web site design practice, we observed that designers employ multiple representations of web sites as they progress through the design process, and that these representations allow them to focus on different aspects of the design. Designers also employ multiple tools during the course of a project, including graphic design, web development, presentation, and word processing software, as well as pen and paper. Sketching on paper is especially important during the design exploration phase of a project, when designers wish to explore many design possibilities quickly without focusing on low-level details. Web site design tools intended to support the early phases of the design process should employ informal interaction techniques, should support multiple site representations, and should integrate well with other applications that designers use regularly.
Responses of wetland plants to effluents in water and sediment

Abstract Responses of two wetland vascular plants, Echinochloa crusgalli and Sesbania macrocarpa, exposed to effluents from a coke plant, a pulp mill and a wastewater treatment plant were measured in three types of tests: seed germination and early growth, seedling survival and growth in hydroponic culture, and seedling survival and growth in sand and synthetic sediments with sand, clay, silt and 3, 5, 7.5 or 10% organic content. There was no effect of effluents on germination. Growth rates were reduced significantly in all tests except for E. crusgalli exposed in sediment to effluent from a wastewater treatment plant; the effluent stimulated growth. Increasing concentrations of organic matter in sediments had little effect on toxicity of effluents.
Effects of feeding endophyte-infected tall fescue seed on reproductive performance in male CD-1 mice by competitive breeding☆

Abstract This study was conducted to determine the effects of feeding endophyte-infected ( Acremonium coenophialum ) tall fescue ( Festuca arundinacea ) seed on the growth and reproductive performance of female CD-1 mice via competitive breeding. One hundred sixty female mice were randomly allocated to groups of ten and fed one of two diets. Diet 1 consisted of 50% mouse chow and 50% noninfected Ky-31 tall fescue seed (w/w). Diet 2 contained 50% chow and 50% tall fescue seed that was 80% infected with A. coenophialum . After 50 d of preconditioning on their respective diets, a single male was introduced into each group of 10 females and allowed to cohabitate for 96 h. The males were removed after the cohabitation period and the females continued through gestation on their respective diets. Body weight of dams and litter weights were recorded at parturition. There were no differences (P>0.05) in pregnancy rates between dietary Treatments 1 and 2 (50% vs 48.8%, respectively). However, the average number of pups born per litter (11.10 pups) and average total litter weight (17.21 g) was greater for those females consuming Diet 1 than for females consuming Diet 2 (9.33 pups per litter and 13.97 g total litter weight). The incidence of dead and cannibalized pups was more frequent with Diet 2 than Diet 1 (0.13 vs 0.0 dead; 0.21 vs 0.03 cannibalized, respectively). The obtained data suggest that although the pregnancy rate was similar between the two dietary treatments, the reproductive capacity (litter size and litter weight) of female CD-1 mice was affected by the consumption of endophyte infected fescue seed.
Polymeric controlled release of dexamethasone in normal rat brain

Abstract Controlled release polymeric implants may improve delivery of anti-edema agents to the central nervous system. Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVAc) matrices containing dexamethasone (35% w/w) were implanted either intracranially or intraperitoneally in Fisher 344 rats. Selective extraction and high performance liquid chromatography were used to quantify tissue concentrations after implantation of the drug-loaded polymer or intraperitoneal injection of an equivalent dose. Dexamethasone was detected in brain for up to 21 days after intracranial polymer implantation, with peak levels of 4.0 ± 0.7 ωg/g tissue measured in the ipsilateral hemisphere. Concentrations in the contralateral hemisphere and peripheral circulation were measurable for the first 12 h only (peak level at 1 h of 0.5 ± 0.2 ωg/g in the contralateral hemisphere). By contrast, intraperitoneal bolus administration of dexamethasone in control animals resulted in minimal brain levels (peak at 1 h of 0.8 ± 0.4 ωg/g) and very high plasma levels (peak at 4 h of 23.6 ± 6.0 ωg/g). No drug was detected in the brains of animals with intraperitoneal dexamethasone-EVAc implants. Measured dexamethasone concentrations were compared to a one-compartment pharmacokinetic model. The experimental results are best described by assuming diffusion-limited release of dexamethasone from the polymer (characteristic release constant of 0.5 ω g h − 1 2 ) and first order drug elimination (half-life of 16 h).
An Analytic Portfolio Approach to System of Systems Evolutions

Abstract The development of large collections of systems or a ‘System-of-Systems (SoS)’ is challenging due to the large number of systems involved, complex dynamics attributed to interdependencies between systems, and inherent technical and programmatic uncertainties. The sheer number of decision variables involved in SoS development exceeds the mental faculties of the SoS practitioner, prompting the need for effective analytical support frameworks. Current frameworks and guidelines in addressing SoSE challenges lack analytical means of objective SoS level decision-making. Research in this paper adopts computational decision support methods from financial engineering that allows SoS practitioners the means to identify optimal ‘portfolios’ of systems based on dimensions of capability, cost and operational risk. The SoS architecture is represented as a hierarchical collection generic nodes that interact to provide the overarching SoS level set of capabilities based on an archetypal set of inter- nodal behaviors. Our research leverages a Conditional Value-at-Risk (CVaR) perspective to managing risks that can incorporate agent based simulation data in the decision-making process. We demonstrate the method using a LCS inspired Naval Warfare Scenario (NWS) as an illustrative case study.
The impact of cigarette and alcohol consumption on weight and obesity. An analysis of 1911 monozygotic male twin pairs.

Background: The objective of this investigation was to examine the relationships among cigarette and alcohol consumption and weight and obesity. Although previous research demonstrated that smoking is associated with reduced weight, data on the relationship between alcohol consumption and weight are conflicting. In addition, the influence of smoking cessation on the risk of obesity at a level that adversely affects health has not been fully examined. Methods: By means of a cotwin-control research design, cigarette and alcohol consumption and weight measurements derived from 1911 male, monozygotic twins were compared with those of their identical siblings. This approach eliminates confounding from a large number of measurable and unmeasurable environmental experiences and the well-documented influence of inherited factors on weight and cigarette and alcohol consumption. Results: After adjustment for a variety of socioeconomic factors, light (one to 19 cigarettes daily), moderate (20 to 29 cigarettes daily), and heavy (>29 cigarettes daily) smokers were an average of 3.2, 2.4, and 4.0 kg lighter, respectively, than nonsmokers. Past smokers demonstrated a 33% higher prevalence of clinically significant obesity (body mass index >27.8 kg/m2) by comparison with their currently smoking siblings (26.5% vs 19.9%, respectively; difference,P Conclusions: Smoking cessation efforts provided by health practitioners to men should consider routinely offering a weight management component to reduce weight gain and further improve the well-documented health benefits of not smoking. It may not be necessary for alcohol treatment programs to adopt a similar policy. (Arch Intern Med. 1993;153:2457-2463)
STRUCTURE OF THE TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI U6 SNRNA GENE PROMOTER

Transcription in vivo of small nuclear and cytoplasmic RNA genes of Trypanosoma brucei was previously shown to require the A and B blocks of a divergently transcribed tRNA or tRNA-like gene located approximately 100 nucleotides (nt) upstream. To understand the functioning of these transcription units, we have used the U6 snRNA/tRNAThr genes as a model system. Saturation mutagenesis revealed that for transcription in vivo three elements are essential and sufficient. In addition to the previously described A and B boxes, sequences in the U6 coding region close to the 5′ end participate in positioning RNA polymerase III at the start site, and thus constitute a third promoter element. We further showed that the function of the upstream A box, but not the B box, is strictly dependent upon its distance to the U6 gene internal control region. Using our recently developed transcription extract we further demonstrated that in vitro U6 transcription requires only the intragenic sequences and the upstream A box of the tRNAThr gene. This apparent discrepancy between the in vivo and in vitro requirements is highly reminiscent of U6 snRNA gene transcription in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and suggests the possibility that similar to the yeast system the B block of the trypanosome U6 snRNA gene promoter might be involved in chromatin organization.
Synthesis and testing of a binary catalytic system for imaging of signal amplification in vivo.

We report a binary targeted enzymatic system that is composed of two covalent monoclonal antibody conjugates for specific labeling of cellular targets in vivo. The system utilizes low-molecular weight peroxidase-reducing substrates synthesized by linking 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) with DTPA (5HT−DTPA) for magnetic resonance and radionuclide imaging or with Cy5.5 for near-infrared optical imaging. Initially, the conjugation reaction conditions were optimized to achieve a low level of antiepidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody (EMD 72000) modification with the N-hydroxysuccinimide ester of 4-hydrazinonicotinate acetone hydrazone (SANH), yielding mAb−HNH conjugate. The resultant modified antibodies were incubated with the periodate-oxidized peroxidase (HRP) or 4-formylbenzoyl-conjugated glucose oxidase (GO), followed by the purification of the resultant mAb−enzyme conjugates by size-exclusion HPLC. The conjugates were further characterized by electrophoresis and were tested by cross-titration ...
DISTRIBUTION OF FOLLISTATIN MESSENGER RIBONUCLEIC ACID IN THE RAT BRAIN : IMPLICATIONS FOR A ROLE IN THE REGULATION OF CENTRAL REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTIONS

Follistatin (FS), which binds to the inhibin/activin beta A- or beta B-subunit is localized with and modulates the biological actions of activin in many systems. However, in contrast to the wide distribution of the activin beta-subunit proteins and messenger RNAs (mRNA) in the brain, demonstration of FS mRNA signal has been limited to the olfactory tubercle and layer II of the frontal cortex. We have hypothesized a more extensive distribution of central FS gene expression and localization in regions coinciding with inhibin/activin beta-subunits and possible activin-mediated effects. In the present study, we examined the central distribution of FS mRNA expression in the normal adult male rat. With in situ hybridization analysis, using a 33P-labeled RNA probe specific for rat FS, gene expression is shown to be widely distributed throughout the brain. Abundant FS mRNA expression is localized in several areas of the olfactory bulb as well as the frontal cortex, a few thalamic nuclei, and in septal regions. Mo...
Implicit finite difference simulation of flow about arbitrary geometries with application to airfoils

Finite difference procedures are used to solve either the Euler equations or the 'thin layer' Navier-Stokes equations subject to arbitrary boundary conditions. An automatic grid generation program is employed, and because an implicit finite difference algorithm for the flow equations is used, time steps are not severely limited when grid points are finely distributed. Computational efficiency and compatibility to vectorized computer processors is maintained by use of approximate factorization techniques. Computed results for both inviscid and viscous flow about airfoils are described and compared to various known solutions.
Theory of saturation velocity and ballistic overshoot for interpreting domain wall oscillation and dynamic bubble collapse experiments in high mobility bubble films

Abstract A theory is presented for the interpretation of domain wall oscillation and dynamic bubble collapse experiments in high mobility bubble materials. The theory is based on Slonczewski's equations of motion for x, the normal wall coordinate, and ψ , the average procession angle of the wall spins. The wall velocity is assumed to be saturated at a constant value for all ψ > 0 , as proposed in an earlier treatment of bubble propagation experiments. The theory predicts oscillations of a wall in a potential well in response to a step or pulse of drive field. The oscillations are radically different from those of an underdamped h harmonic oscillator because they arise from a nonlinear ballistic overshoot effect. Oscillation periods are orders of magnitude larger than those predicted from Doring's classical theory. The periods increase with increasing drive and decrease with increasing period number. The oscillations are typically triangular as a function of time and the oscillation peak die away faster than linearly. These predictions are shown to be in reasonable quantitative agreement with data by Brown et al. and by de Leeuw and Robertson. Applied to the case of dynamic bubble collapse, the theory predicts multiple, sharp peaks in the apparent velocity versus drive curve. If πμ γ ⪢ χ c , where μ is the linear mobility, γ is the gyromagnetic ratio and xc is the distance the wall must go to reach the dynamic collapse radius, very large apparent velocities are shown to be possible, even though the actual saturation velocity may be small. Furthermore, dynamic penetration of the bubble's potential barrier is predicted, i.e. a bias field less than that required for quasistatic collapse can dynamically collapse the bubble. These characteristics are identified semiquantitatively in the earlier experimental data of the author.
Reliability of selected ground reaction force parameters during walking

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the appropriate number of trials to establish a stable mean and the intraday and interday reliability of selected ground reaction force (GRF) parameters during walking. A sequential estimation technique was used to determine that 10 trials were required to establish a stable mean in any block of trials and, as a result, 10-trial mean values for each parameter were generated for each parameter for each subject. Reliability was determined using statistical tests for stability and consistency of the data. ANOVA indicated a high degree of stability in the data both between blocks and days. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients were generated between blocks on each day and between days to test the consistency of the data. Correlation coefficients were generally higher between blocks on days 2 and 3 ( r > 0.82) than on day 1 ( r > 0.71). The correlations between days 2 and 3 were higher ( r > 0.86) than between days 1 and 2 ( r > 0.75). These data imply that: (1) at least 10 trials are necessary for stable GRF data after a 10-trial warm-up in that block; and (2) testing should take place on more than one day using the day-1 results as a practice session.
Effects of diazepam and hydromorphone in triazolam-trained humans under a novel-response drug discrimination procedure.

Seven healthy normal male and female volunteers (21–31 years) were trained to discriminate between the benzodiazepine triazolam (0.32 mg/70 kg, PO; e.g., drug A) and placebo (e.g., drug B) under a three-choice, instructed novel response drug discrimination procedure. Once the criterion for discrimination was met (i.e., >85% correct responding on four consecutive sessions), dose-effect curves were determined for triazolam (0.1–0.56 mg/70 kg), the benzodiazepine diazepam (10–32 mg/70 kg) and the opioid agonist hydromorphone (1–6 mg/70 kg). Subjects met the criterion for discrimination within four to six sessions. Triazolam and diazepam produced dose-related increases in triazolam-appropriate responding and no novel-appropriate responding at any dose tested. In contrast, hydromorphone generally increased novel-appropriate responding in a dose-related manner, with placebo-appropriate responding and some triazolam-appropriate responding at intermediate doses occurring also. Triazolam and diazepam produced qualitatively similar increases on several measures of sedative drug effects; hydromorphone increased ratings of “like novel” and sedative-like effects in subjects who discriminated hydromorphone as novel relative to those who did not. These results indicate that the novel response drug discrimination procedure enhances the specificity of the triazolam-placebo discrimination.
Levels in 110Cd populated in the decay of 69 min 110gIn

Abstract The level structure of 110Cd has been investigated from the decay of 69 min 110gIn. Singles γ-ray spectra were taken with a large-volume, high-resolution Ge(Li) detector. Extensive γ-γ coincidence measurements were made with both NaI-NaI and NaI-Ge(Li) arrangements. From these data it was concluded that levels at 657.5, 1475.2, 1540.9, 1731.5, 1783.3, 1809.0, 2078.8, 2355.5, 2463.1, 2786.5, 2868.3, 2974.1, 3077.9, 3101.4, 3193.8, 3313.3, 3402, 3451.1, 3464.3, 3474, 3596, 3701 and 3770 keV in 110Cd are populated in the decay of 69 min 110gIn. From log ft values determined in this work and from γ-ray intensity information, limits have been placed for the Jπ values of many levels. The half-life of 110gIn has been measured and found to be 69.1 ± 0.5 min.
On the global minimizers of a nonlocal isoperimetric problem in two dimensions

In this article we analyze the minimization of a nonlocal isoperimetric problem (NLIP) posed on the flat 2-torus. After establishing regularity of the free boundary of minimizers, we show that when the parameter controlling the influence of the nonlocality is small, there is an interval of values for the mass constraint such that the global minimizer is exactly lamellar; that is, the free boundary consists of two parallel lines. In other words, in this parameter regime, the global minimizer of the 2d (NLIP) coincides with the global minimizer of the local periodic isoperimetric problem.
Universal Flow in the First Stage of Relativistic Heavy Ion Collisions

In the first moments of a relativistic heavy ion collision explosive collective flow begins to grow before the matter has yet equilibrated. Here it is found that as long as the stress-energy tensor is traceless, the initial growth of the flow is independent of whether the matter is composed of fields or particles, equilibrated or not, or whether the stress-energy tensor is isotropic. By comparing several models, it appears that this equivalence extends for times of the order of 1 fm/c. This is sufficiently long to allow one to initialize the flow in hydrodynamic calculations independently of the early physics, and reduces the uncertainty involved in modeling the collision.
Posterior tuberculous sinuses of vertebral origin; wound revision and closure with streptomycin permitting early spinal fusion.

BEFORE the advent of streptomycin, half the patients having sinuses associated with Pott's disease died. Many procedures were devised and advocated for the control of tuberculous abscesses and sinuses but were uniformly characterized by poor therapeutic response. Aspiration of abscesses and excision of sinuses were followed by recurrence in about 60 per cent of the cases.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 When such foci of soft-tissue infection presented near the site of tuberculous spondylitis, it was rarely possible to perform spinal fusion without considerable risk to the patient. Usually, in the face of this common complication, all thought of spinal fusion was abandoned. The only . . .
Expert Systems in the SDI Environment

Much work is needed to advance technology in order to meet the complexities and challenges posed by the Strategic Defense Initiative. Expert systems are one alternative that have the potential to contribute to the SDI goals. Some of these application areas are discussed, namely software requirements development, multisensor information integration, battle management, and distributed problem solving. More research is needed on how to cope with evolving requirements, weapon/target discrimination, uncertainty, tremendous time constraints, processing speed and computations, and other areas. The SDI environment presents a challenging problem domain for the coming years. Advances in expert systems and artificial intelligence will help meet these challenges.
Influence of bradykinin on isolated canine venous strips.

Abstract The action of the nonapeptide bradykinin was studied on isolated canine venous strips. Bradykinin was found to produce an increase in tension in femoral and mesenteric venous strips which was not inhibited by α- or β-adrenergic receptor blockade. Thus, while bradykinin relaxes arteriolar smooth muscle, it apparently constricts venous smooth muscle. The ability of bradykinin to selectively relax resistance vessels while constricting capacitance vessels would make it an ideal regulator of local blood flow.
Retrotransposition of glycerol kinase-related genes from the X chromosome to autosomes: functional and evolutionary aspects.

Glycerol kinase catalyzes the metabolism of endogenously derived and dietary glycerol. GyK is a member of a small group of kinases termed ambiquitous enzymes, which are found either in the cytosol or as membrane-bound complexes associated with the voltage-dependent anion channel of the mitochondrial outer membrane. In Homo sapiens, the GyK gene family consists of an X-encoded locus and several X-linked and autosomal intronless retroposons, which, apparently, comprise both functional genes and processed pseudogenes. To study the role of the autosomal genes in mammalian physiology, we have isolated two murine GyK-like genes, determined their structures and chromosomal locations, and examined their functions. These sequences are intronless retroposons, which appear to be paralogues of the X-encoded, brain-specific GyK isoform and are expressed only in the testes. Though both retrotransposition events appear to have occurred prior to the primate-rodent divergence of some 65-80 million years ago, only one of the retrotransposed murine gene sequences, based upon its chromosomal location, is conserved with modern H. sapiens. To test the hypothesis that the murine GyK-like genes encode functional GyK activity, transient transfection of the gene sequences into COS7 cells was carried out. While in vitro translation confirmed that the transcripts could direct the synthesis of proteins of the appropriate size, no GyK activity was detected. Such data suggest that the autosomal GyK-like genes have evolved novel, testis-specific functions. A comparison of the human and mouse GyK-like gene sequences demonstrates the evolutionary relationships between each autosomal isoform and its corresponding X-linked ancestral locus.
GPR30: a novel indicator of poor survival for endometrial carcinoma.

Objective This study was undertaken to evaluate the relationship between GPR30, classical steroidal receptor expression, and clinical outcome in patients with endometrial carcinoma. Study Design Immunohistochemistry was used to investigate the expression of GPR30, estrogen, progesterone, epidermal growth factor receptors and Ki-67 in 47 consecutive consenting patients with endometrial carcinoma diagnosed between 1997 and 2001. Results were correlated with clinical and pathologic predictors of adverse outcome and survival. Results GPR30 correlated positively with epidermal growth factor receptor ( P = .005), but negatively with progesterone ( P = .05) receptor expression. GPR30 overexpression occurred more frequently in tumors with deep myometrial invasion, high-grade, biologically aggressive histologic subtypes, and advanced stage. In patients with GPR30 overexpression, survival was significantly poorer (65.2% vs 100%, P = .005). Conclusion GPR30 represents an alternative estrogen-responsive receptor that is overexpressed in tumors where estrogen and progesterone receptors are downregulated, and in high-risk endometrial cancer patients with lower survival rates.
The lipoid, calcium, phosphorus and iron content of rats with hypothalamic and hypophyseal damage.

IN A RECENT preliminary report (1) the results of an analysis of the lipoid,calcium, phosphorus and iron content of rats showing pathological adiposity following theinjection of chromic acid into the hypophysis were described. The histological findings at the base of the diencephalon as well as in the other organs in these animals have already been discussed in a separate paper (2). The recent work by Hetherington and Ranson (3), showing that obesity in the rat can also be produced by the placing of electrolytic lesions in the hypothalamus, has afforded us an opportunity to extend the analytical studiessummarised in the first communication. Smith (4) has reported that fat in his obese rats (produced by hypothalamic injury) made up on the average 50 to 60% of the total body weight, as compared to about 15%for normal specimens. He does not state how the analyses were performed.
Crystal structure of jun a 1, the major cedar pollen allergen from Juniperus ashei, reveals a parallel β-helical core

Pollen from cedar and cypress trees is a major cause of seasonal hypersensitivity in humans in several regions of the Northern Hemisphere. We report the first crystal structure of a cedar allergen, Jun a 1, from the pollen of the mountain cedar Juniperus ashei (Cupressaceae). The core of the structure consists primarily of a parallel β-helix, which is nearly identical to that found in the pectin/pectate lyases from several plant pathogenic microorganisms. Four IgE epitopes mapped to the surface of the protein are accessible to the solvent. The conserved vWiDH sequence is covered by the first 30 residues of the N terminus. The potential reactive arginine, analogous to the pectin/pectate lyase reaction site, is accessible to the solvent, but the substrate binding groove is blocked by a histidine-aspartate salt bridge, a glutamine, and an α-helix, all of which are unique to Jun a 1. These observations suggest that steric hindrance in Jun a 1 precludes enzyme activity. The overall results suggest that it is the structure of Jun a 1 that makes it a potent allergen.
Gender dysphoria in a 39-year-old man.

A 39-year-old married man with a history of depression presents to his primary physician requesting estrogen. He explains that he has felt “more like a girl” since his early teen years and states that he can no longer tolerate living this way. A physical examination shows mild gynecomastia and
ESD protection techniques for high frequency integrated circuits

The high frequency performance characteristics of integrated circuits (ICs) can be severely degraded by the addition of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection networks on input or output pins. However, without protection networks ICs can be extremely sensitive to ESD. This paper will present a review of a number of techniques that have been used to protect ICs without significantly degrading their AC operating performance. Experimental results showing improved ESD performance are included for some of these techniques. Although the emphasis of the paper will be on silicon based circuits, III-V compounds will also be addressed.
Wetting Properties of Some Enamel Glasses and Relation to Impact Resistance

The wetting properties of some enamel glasses on commercially pure enameling iron were determined and compared with correlated impact resistance test results. The rate of change of wetting characteristics with temperature seemed to influence the impact resistance of the enameled metal.
Study of system dynamic range for WLAN radio signal transmission over MMF and coax cable systems

We studied several system scenarios for connecting remote antennas to a central control station in a WLAN 802.11 network by multimode fiber-optic links and coax cable links. The system dynamic range was defined and calculated for the uplink connection. For short distances up to 200 m, passive coax cable links have a ~20 dB higher dynamic range than fiber links at 5.8 GHz, whereas fiber-optic connections utilizing 50 ?m MMF can achieve long distances up to 1000 m. Realistic component parameters based on measurements were used for the analysis.
Local arts agency participation in cultural tourism management.

The tourism literature does not consider the role of the local arts agency in destination management. This paper explores the extent to which local arts agencies engage in programming and partnerships related to the development of tourism. It proposes that participation in cultural tourism management is determined by both organizational and environmental characteristics. Drawing on a national survey of local arts agencies, the analysis compares survey measures of these characteristics to estimate their influence on the likelihood that agencies are involved in cultural tourism programming. Two-thirds of subject local arts agencies report that their organization is currently working or partnering in programming aimed at cultural tourism. Smaller agencies with a range of programs are more likely to have adopted the innovation. Agencies responsible for management of a cultural facility develop audiences through cultivation of tourists.
Adult age differences in cognitive abilities and educational background

A large sample of men and women between the ages of 20 and 79 years were given specially devised, adult-relevant tests of vocabulary and information as well as portions of the ABLE test of educational achievement. The familiar pattern of decline with age was found in the ABLE subtests, but not in the adult-relevant tests, which lends support to the position that age trends in tests of cognitive abilities depend significantly upon test contents.
Chaperonin 60 and the stability of polypeptides synthesized in isolated chloroplasts of Euglena gracilis at moderately elevated temperatures

Summary Chloroplast function and continuity is affected when exponential cultures of Euglena gracilis Z are grown at the moderately elevated temperature of 33°C. Since protein instability could be a key factor in the response of chloroplasts to temperature, we carried out pulse-chase experiments with isolated chloroplasts. We have identified a polypeptide of 20.5 ku (kDa) that is degraded quite rapidly when isolated chloroplasts are pulsed at 33°C and then chased at either 23°C or at 33°C. By contrast, most polypeptides synthesized by isolated chloroplasts do not seem to be degraded during the chase period. We believe that the labile nature of the 20.5 ku is exacerbated at 33°C because the amounts of chaperonin 60 detected in Euglena chloroplasts appear to be low and probably insufficient for protection of newly synthesized proteins at elevated temperatures.
Constituents of Spartina cynosuroides: Isolation and 13C-NMR Analysis of Tricin

Tricin was isolated from the aerial parts of the marsh plant Spartina cynosuroides, which yielded a fraction enriched in antileukemic activity,. The 13C-NMR spectrum of tricin is discussed.
Differential modulation of synaptic strength and timing regulate synaptic efficacy in a motor network.

Neuromodulators modify network output by altering neuronal firing properties and synaptic strength at multiple sites; however, the functional importance of each site is often unclear. We determined...
Nitric oxide activates intradomain disulfide bond formation in the kinase loop of Akt1/PKBα after burn injury

Severe burn injury is an acute inflammatory state with massive alterations in gene expression and levels of growth factors, cytokines and free radicals. During the cata- bolic processes, changes in insulin sensitivity and skeletal muscle wasting (unintended loss of 5-15% of lean body mass) are observed clinically. Here, we reveal a novel molecular mechanism of Akt1/protein kinase Bα (Akt1/PKBα) regu- lated via cross-talking between dephosphorylation of Thr 308 and S-nitrosylation of Cys 296 post severe burn injury, which were characterized using nano-LC interfaced with tandem quadrupole time-of-fight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF) micro tandem mass spectrometry in both in vitro and in vivo studies. For the in vitro studies, Akt1/PKBα was S-nitrosylated with S-nitrosoglutathione and derivatized by three methods. The derivatives were isolated by SDS-PAGE, trypsinized and analyzed by the tandem MS. For the in vivo studies, Akt1/PKBα in muscle lysates from burned rats was immuno- precipitated, derivatized with HPDP-Biotin and analyzed as above. The studies demonstrated that the NO free radical reacts with the free thiol of Cys 296 to produce a Cys 296 -SNO intermediate which accelerates interaction with Cys 310 to form Cys 296 -Cys 310 in the kinase loop. MS/MS sequence analysis indicated that the dipeptide, linked via Cys 296 -Cys 310 , under- went dephosphorylation at Thr 308 . These effects were not observed in lysates from sham animals. As a result of this dual effect of burn injury, the loose conformation that is slightly stabilized by the Lys 297 -Thr 308 salt bridge may be replaced by a more rigid structure which may block substrate access. Together with the findings of our previous report concerning mild IRS-1 integrity changes post burn, it is reasonable to conclude that the impaired Akt1/PKBα has a major impact on FOXO3 subcellular distribution and activities.
Development and characterization of a silicon-based micro direct methanol fuel cell

A silicon-based micro direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) for portable applications has been developed and its electrochemical characterization carried out in this study. Anode and cathode flowfields with channel and rib width of 750 m and channel depth of 400m were fabricated on Si wafers using the microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology. A membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) was specially fabricated to mitigate methanol crossover. This MEA features a modified anode backing structure in which a compact microporous layer is added to create an additional barrier to methanol transport thereby reducing the rate of methanol crossing over the polymer membrane. The cell with the active area of 1.625 cm 2 was assembled by sandwiching the MEA between two micro-fabricated Si wafers. Extensive cell polarization testing demonstrated a maximum power density of 50 mW/cm 2 using 2 M methanol feed at 60 ◦ C. When the cell was operated at room temperature, the maximum power density was shown to be about 16 mW/cm 2 with both 2 and 4 M methanol feed. It was further found that the present DMFC still produced reasonable performance under 8 M methanol solution at room temperature.