cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of commercial inocula in enhancing biodegradation of weathered crude oil contaminating a Prince William Sound beach

In a laboratory study evaluating the effectiveness of 10 commercial products in stimulating enhanced biodegradation of Alaska North Slope crude oil, two of the products provided significantly greater alkane degradation in closed flasks than indigenous Alaskan bacterial populations supplied only with excess nutrients. These two products, which were microbial in nature, were then taken to a Prince William Sound beach to determine if similar enhancements were achieveable in the field. A randomized complete block experiment was designed in which four small plots consisting of a no-nutrient control, a mineral nutrient plot, and two plots receiving mineral nutrients plus the two products were laid out in random order on a beach in Prince William Sound that had been contaminated 16 months earlier from the Exxon Valdez spill. These four plots comprised a ‘block’ of treatments, each oil residue weight and alkane hydrocarbon profile changes. The results indicated no significant differences (P<0.05) among the four treatments in the 27-day time period of the experiment. A statistical power analysis, however, revealed that the variability in the data prevented a firm conclusion in this regard. Failure to detect significant differences was attributed not only to variability in the data but also to the highly weathered nature of the oil and the lack of sufficient time for biodegradation to take place.
High dietary salt does not significantly affect plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations of Sprague Dawley rats

The Dahl salt-sensitive rat, but not the Dahl salt-resistant rat, develops hypertension and hypovitaminosis D when fed a high salt diet. Since the salt-sensitive rat and salt-resistant rat were bred from the Sprague Dawley rat, the aim of this research was to test the hypothesis that salt-resistant and Sprague Dawley rats would be similar in their vitamin D endocrine system response to high salt intake. Sprague Dawley, salt-sensitive, and salt-resistant rats were fed high (80 g/kg, 8%) or low (3 g/kg, 3%) salt diets for three weeks. The blood pressure of Sprague Dawley rats increased from baseline to week 3 during both high and low salt intake and the mean blood pressure at week 3 of high salt intake was higher than that at week 3 of low salt intake (P < 0.05). Mean plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations (marker of vitamin D status) of Sprague Dawley, salt-sensitive, and salt-resistant rats were similar at week 3 of low salt intake. Mean plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations of Sprague Dawley and salt-resistant rats were unaffected by high salt intake, whereas the mean plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration of salt-sensitive rats at week 3 of high salt intake was only 20% of that at week 3 of low salt intake. These data indicate that the effect of high salt intake on the vitamin D endocrine system of Sprague Dawley rats at week 3 was similar to that of salt-resistant rats. The salt-sensitive rat, thus, appears to be a more appropriate model than the Sprague Dawley rat for assessing possible effects of salt-sensitivity on vitamin D status of humans.
Non-percolating nanotube networks for thin film transistors: A pathway to channel length reduction

This study outlines a method to increase the transconductance of thin film transistors (TFTs) by assembling non-percolating random arrays of carbon nanotubes. It represents an effective, simple tool to substantially reduce the transistor channel length, thus increase transconductance, without lessening the on/off ratio. When non-percolating arrays of carbon nanotubes are linked via a semiconducting overlay, the majority of current paths between source and drain follow the highly conducting nanotubes with short, switchable semiconducting links completing the circuit. This field-induced percolating network allows for high transconductance with relatively large source—drain distance. Thus, transistors can be manufactured inexpensively by commercially available techniques using a variety of available semiconductors.
119Sn-NMR spectroscopic study of the 1,3-dichloro- and 1,3-diacetoxytetra-n-butyldistannoxane binary system

Abstract The binary [ n Bu 2 SnCl] 2 O/[ n Bu 2 SnOAc] 2 O (OAc=O 2 CCH 3 ) system is re-examined using 119 Sn-NMR spectroscopy. Binary mixtures of [ n Bu 2 SnCl] 2 O and [ n Bu 2 SnOAc] 2 O reach equilibrium rapidly, producing all five possible mixed distannoxane dimers, differing in the ratio and relative positions of Cl and acetoxy ligands. The rapid formation of the product dimers results from the intermolecular exchange of the ligands one at a time. The 119 Sn-NMR spectral data are consistent with time-averaged ladder structures arising from rapidly interconverting ladder pairs. The equilibrium concentrations of the binary mixtures indicate that positional ordering of the ligands exists in the mixed dimers. A reversible configurational rearrangement is also observed in which the ligands associated with the same exocyclic tin atom undergo mutual exchange via rotation about the oxygen–exocyclic tin bond. The 119 Sn spectral data of the binary system leads to the unambiguous assignment of the tin resonances of {[ n Bu 2 SnOAc] 2 O} 2 : δ exo =−216.1 ppm, δ endo =−227.9 ppm.
Hepatic Decompensation Likely Attributable to Simeprevir in Patients with Advanced Cirrhosis

Background Hyperbilirubinemia is a common side effect of protease inhibitors used to treat chronic hepatitis C (HCV), and most patients do not experience without clinically overt hepatotoxicity. The safety of second-wave protease inhibitors, including simeprevir, has not been well studied in patients with advanced cirrhosis.
Preference and motivation for different diet forms and their effect on motivation for a foraging enrichment in captive Orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica)

Abstract Motivation tests were conducted to assess preference strength for diet form and a cage enrichment device by Orange-winged Amazon parrots ( Amazona amazonica ) held in individual cages, N = 10. Each cage was equipped with two trough-type feeders, one of which had a hinged lid that required lifting to access feeder content; cost of lifting the lid could be increased by the addition of up to 480 g upon it, ∼1.5 times the mass of an Amazon parrot. Motivation tests were conducted using three different diet forms of pellets (regular-sized, 0.16 g/pellet (cylindrical-shaped); large-sized, 3.4 g/pellet (cylindrical); and over-sized, 3–5 g/pellet (cuboid-to-spheroid)) manufactured from the same diet formulation. When regular pellets were concomitantly freely available, birds were still highly motivated to gain access to either large-sized or over-sized pellets, with 7 of 10 birds lifting the maximum weight of 480 g. In motivation tests comparing over-sized vs. large-sized pellets, birds worked more for over-sized pellets (when large-sized pellets were freely available) than vice versa: motivation for over-sized pellets exceeded that for large-sized pellets by approximately 242.67 ± 64.4 g ( F = 14.2, P = 0.0055; Sign Test, P = 0.0078). Additional tests assessed motivation to access 2.5 cm/side wooden cube enrichment devices when regular or over-sized pellets were freely available. Birds removed more cubes when fed regular pellets (Sign Test, P = 0.0078) and lifted an average of 221.33 ± 64.62 g more to access them ( F = 11.73, P = 0.009; Sign Test, P = 0.0063), than when over-sized pellets were freely available, suggesting that enrichment devices may act as foraging substitutes. Likewise, both wooden cubes and over-sized pellets elicited comparable podomandibulation (handling with beak and foot) behavior, and podomandibulation was reduced when parrots were fed regular as opposed to over-sized pellets (58 ± 10 s [mean ± SE] vs. 4.27 min ± 31 s; P F = 120.20, P
Electronic performance of a dual inductive link for a wireless neural recording implant

This paper reports a dual inductive link to provide two-way wireless communication and power for a neural recording system. Particular emphasis is placed on explaining the challenges associated with two inductive links operating in the same space and possible solutions. This system uses a class E converter to sustain a large AC current in an external coil for transcutaneous energy transfer to an implant coil. A telemetry circuit generates a reverse-telemetry carrier frequency using an Integer-N PLL to support multiple outward data channels. Interference from the class E converter fundamental and harmonics is rejected using a differential coil configuration. An approach to filtering harmonic interference from the external power coil is also presented.
In Vitro Detection of Endonuclease IV-Specific DNA Damage Formed by Bleomycin in Vivo

Endonuclease IV of Escherichia coli has been implicated by genetic studies in the repair of DNA damage caused by the antitumor drug bleomycin, but the lesion(s) recognized by this enzyme in vivo have not been identified. We used the sensitive primer activation assay, which monitors the formation of 3'-OH groups that support in vitro synthesis by E.coli DNA polymerase I, to determine whether endonuclease IV-specific damage could be detected in the chromosomal DNA of cells lacking the enzyme after in vivo treatment with bleomycin. Chromosomal DNA isolated after a 1 h bleomycin treatment from wild-type, endonuclease IV-deficient (nfo-) and endonuclease IV-overproducing (p-nfo; approximately 10-fold) strains all supported modest polymerase activity. However, in vitro treatment with purified endonuclease IV activated subsequent DNA synthesis with samples from the nfo- strain (an average of 2.6-fold), to a lesser extent for samples from wild-type cells (2.1-fold), and still less for the p-nfo samples (1.5-fold). This pattern is consistent with the presence of unrepaired damage that correlates inversely with the in vivo activity of endonuclease IV. Incubation of the DNA from bleomycin-treated nfo- cells with polymerase and dideoxynucleoside triphosphates lowered the endonuclease IV-independent priming activity, but did not affect the amount of activation seen after endonuclease IV treatment. Primer activation with DNA from the nfo- strain could also be obtained with purified E.coli exonuclease III in vitro, but a quantitative comparison demonstrated that endonuclease IV was > or = 5-fold more active in this assay. Thus, endonuclease IV-specific damage can be detected after in vivo exposure to bleomycin. These may be 2-deoxy-pentos-4-ulose residues, but other possibilities are discussed.
Kinetics and a Revised Mechanism for the Autocatalytic Oxidation of SCN- by ClO2

The aqueous reaction of chlorine dioxide with excess thiocyanate is known to be autocatalytic at pH 2. We find that under strongly acidic conditions (>0.1 M HClO4) it is pseudo-first-order with respect to [ClO2]. Under these conditions, the rate law is −d[ClO2]/dt = (2k1 + 2k2[H+])[ClO2][SCN-], with 2k1 = 0.42 M-1 s-1 and 2k2 = 0.52 M-2 s-1 at 25 °C and μ = 1 M (LiClO4). Effective activation parameters in 1 M HClO4 are ΔH⧧ = 66.5 kJ/mol and ΔS⧧ = −26.3 J/mol for the temperature range 13.4−52.2 °C. Reaction products were identified by ion chromatography and ion-selective electrodes, which allowed a verification of the stoichiometry, 6ClO2 + 5SCN- + 8H2O → 6Cl- + 5CN- + 5SO42- + 16H+. Direct evidence for a reaction intermediate, thiocyanogen, was obtained through careful analysis of multiwavelength rapid scanning data. This intermediate provides a reactive autocatalytic species OSCN- via hydrolysis equilibrium, and this equilibrium was found to be important to simulations and fits to raw data. A 14-step mec...
Oxidative stress and lipid retention in vascular grafts: comparison between venous and arterial conduits.

Background—Because saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) exhibit greater cellular heterogeneity and worse clinical outcomes than arterial grafts (AGs), we examined oxidative stress and lipid retention in different vascular conduits. Methods and Results—In a porcine model of graft interposition into carotid artery, superoxide anion (·O2−) was measured at 2 weeks after surgery. SVGs demonstrated increased ·O2− production compared with AGs (SOD-inhibitable nitro blue tetrazolium reduction, P<0.01). The NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium (P<0.01) abolished SVG-derived ·O2−, whereas the inhibitors of other pro-oxidant enzymes were ineffective. The change in oxidative stress was also reflected by lower activity of the endogenous antioxidant superoxide dismutase in SVGs than in AGs (P<0.001). SVG remodeling was associated with increased synthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycans and augmented expression of a core protein, versican. These changes were accompanied by SVGs retaining significantly more 125I-labeled ...
Effect of kinetic and electronic energy on the reactions of Ti+ with H2, HD, and D2

Abstract Reactions of atomic titanium ions with H2, HD, and D2 have been examined using guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometry. The a4F ground electronic state and the b4F first excited state of Ti+ are very closely spaced, 0.11 eV, and this makes definitive determination of their relative reactivities difficult. Either both states react efficiently above their thermodynamic thresholds or the a4F state is fairly unreactive. In the reactions of these states with HD, formation of the metal hydride ion and the metal deuteride ion are nearly equal in the threshold region, which indicates a statistically behaved intermediate. Excited states of Ti+ produced by electron impact also appear to react at their thermodynamic threshold with an efficiency about 4 times that of the 4F states. With HD, these states react to form TiH+ preferentially, indicating a direct reaction. These results complement those of other atomic transition metal ions and can be explained by using simple molecular orbital concepts. These data are analyzed to yield a 0 K bond dissociation energy for TiH+ of 2.31 ± 0.11 eV (53.3 ± 2.5 kcal mol−1).
Ion-trapping technique for ion/molecule reaction studies in the center quadrupole of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer

A novel ion-trapping technique has been developed to facilitate the detection of reaction products formed in the central quadrupole of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Ions that are produced by ion/molecule reactions are trapped for a variable period of time in the central quadrupole and are then pulsed toward the detector by means of an extraction lens. Full MS/MS scans using the repetitive trap and pulse technique have been achieved with no changes to the instrument hardware and only minor software changes in a FORTH-based microprocessor data system for the instrument.
Exteroceptive Cueing of Response Force

Food pellet reinforcement for rats was made contingent upon the peak force of a bar-pressing response falling within restricted limits. Two such "bands," 5 to 10 grams and 15 to 20 grams, were established, the momentarily correct "band" indicated by one of two exteroceptive stimulus values. Peak force of response tended to conform to the reinforcement requirements, the two stimulus values setting the occasion for differentiated distributions of response force.
Treatment failure of genital condylomata acuminata in women: role of the male sexual partner

The male sexual partners of women with genital condylomata acuminata are thought to be carriers of human papillomaviruses. It is therefore often recommended that both sexual partners be treated. We studied 360 women with genital warts to test the hypothesis that when the male partners of women with condylomata acuminata are treated, the treatment failure rate decreases. The male sexual partners of 180 of these women were examined and, if indicated, treated (treatment group). The 180 remaining male sexual partners were neither examined nor treated (control group). One hundred twenty-two (68%) men in the treatment group had human papillomavirus-associated lesions. The treatment failure rate of women was 16.7% in the treatment group and 18.9% in the control group. The difference is not statistically significant ( p
Anti-DNA antibodies and the problem of autoimmunity☆

Several different classes of autoreactive antibodies are known to exist: those that are stimulated by bacterial infection (e.g., streptococci/rheumatic fever), those that react with tissue-specific antigens (e.g., thyrotropin receptor/Graves' disease), and those that bind to ubiquitous autoantigens (e.g., DNA/systematic lupus). The origin of the last kind of autoantibody is unknown, but it now seems that their production is an inherent property of the normal immune system. Indeed, it would appear that autoantibodies of the lupus variety actually have a physiological role in normal immunity. The development of the autoimmune disease may occur when there is an "escape" from the normal function of lupus autoantibodies.
Growth rate of an ice crystal in flowing water and salt solutions

The growth rate of an ice crystal in the basal plane has been measured in subcooled water flowing at velocities of 0.04 to 1 cm/s to test a theory of Fernandez and Barduhn (1967). The theory fits the data in pure water at all velocities and subcoolings studied here and at velocities up to 46 cm/s studied previously. The interfacial tension between ice and water calculated from these data is 33 ± 6 ergs/cm2, a value in good agreement with those determined by others. Measured growth rates of ice from solution do not follow the theory and in fact are as much as 150% higher in 0.5 to 1% NaCl solution than in pure water. High subcoolings and low flow velocities accentuate this anomaly.
Early Confucian Philosophy and the Development of Compassion

Metaphors of adorning, crafting, water flowing downward, and growing sprouts appear in the Analects (Lunyu 論語), the Mencius (Mengzi 孟子), and the Xunzi 荀子. They express and guide thinking about what there is in human nature to cultivate and how it is to be cultivated. The craft metaphor seems to imply that our nature is of the sort that must be disciplined and reshaped to achieve goodness, while the adorning, water, and sprout metaphors imply that human nature has an inbuilt directionality toward the ethical that should be protected or nurtured. I argue that all the metaphors capture different aspects of human nature and how one must work with these aspects. There is much in contemporary psychology and neuroscience to suggest that the early Confucians were on the right track. It is also argued that they point to a fruitful conception of ethical development that is relational and holistic.
ON THE PRESENCE OF PROGESTERONE IN BLOOD PLASMA FROM NORMAL WOMEN.

By the criteria of ultraviolet absorbance, retention time in gas-liquid chromatography, infrared spectrometry, isotope dilution derivate analysis and recrystallization to constant specific activity, a tentative isolation and identification of progesterone in pooled blood plasma of nonpregnant women have been made. The concentration of progesterone in μg/100 ml plasma varied throughout the cycle in the following way: days 1–10 less than 0.10, days 11–15 1.60, days 16–20 1.25, and from the 21st day to the first day of the next cycle 0.44. The data are discussed in the light of current methods permitting adequate measurement of plasma progesterone in nonpregnant women.
Comparison of theories for high-speed linear induction motors

Four leading theories of linear induction motors (LIM's) are applied to the analysis of test data on the linear induction motor research vehicle (LIMRV). Computer models are exercised to demonstrate the operating regions over which the different finite size effects become significant. Each model is seen to yield a reasonable description of LIM performance within the limitations imposed by the model boundary assumptions. Variations in the predicted LIM normal force and input phase impedance are traced to different treatments of the finite size effects. Flux studies conducted on the LIMRV in the single-sided configuration demonstrate the presence of large phase belt modulation under static conditions.
The role of suppression in immunoregulation: in vivo analysis using a monoclonal antibody to T suppressor factors

We have used a monoclonal antibody (mAb)-specific for murine T suppressor (Ts) cells (mAb 14-12) to study the role of T cells in tolerance and immunoregulation. We demonstrate that mAb 14-12 can block in vivo Ts cell activity in a variety of experimental systems. It prevents the induction of Ts cells induced by i.v. injection of the water-soluble hapten 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid, and the protein antigen bovine serum albumin. When 14-12 mAb is given prior to the i.v. injection of trinitrophenyl-conjugated spleen cells (TNP-SC) it blocks the induction of Ts cells and sufficiently overcomes suppression so that TNP-SC is able to induce immunity. mAb 14-12 can convert nonresponder mice into responders for the Ir gene-controlled response to the random terpolymer L-glutamic acid60-L-alanine30-L-tyrosine 10 (GAT), and can substitute for cyclophosphamide in overcoming a suppressor barrier in the adoptive transfer of contact sensitivity. Administration of 14-12 mAb just prior to immunization results in the augmentation of contact sensitivity, antibody and plaque-forming cell responses. These results demonstrate the versatility of this reagent for the study of Ts cell activity.
Developing Aspiring Engineers into Budding Entrepreneurs: An Invention and Innovation Course†

Our invention and innovation course for engineering students cultivates an understanding of the entrepreneurship and invention world through a hands-on introduction to product design and development. A pervasive emphasis on team dynamics as well as on the processes of design, invention and innovation fosters an environment that produces successful teams and inventions. This paper describes objectives and components of the elective course, development of high-performance invention teams, course evaluation, assessment tools and results, and lessons learned. Students working in teams design and build an invention of their choice, and explore entrepreneurial topics such as profitability, marketing, sources for capital, and patenting. Creating business feasibility studies leads each team to estimate the manufacturing cost of their product and forecast potential sales revenues and profits. A two-week, low-risk introductory creativity and design project provides an early opportunity for creative expression, as well as insight into individuals' contribution and effectiveness in a team environment. Our course was inspired and initially supported by the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance (NCIIA). Some student teams have subsequently received NCIIA product development funding.
Fast Square-Root Detection Algorithm for V-BLAST

A fast square-root detection algorithm for V-BLAST is proposed to improve the high complexities when conventional square-root detection algorithm detects in MIMO receivers. It simplifies the computing process of conventional square-root detection algorithm and proposes a parallel processing algorithm of decided signal's feedback and received signal's interference cancellation. The detection complexities of the algorithm are reduced 38.24% and 16% compared to the conventional and improved square-root detection algorithm, while the detection performances retain. Under the environment of multiple scattering wireless communication, the simulation experiment results show that compared to the conventional square-root detection algorithm, the detection complexities of the proposed algorithm reduces while the detection performances retain.
Metrology, static and dynamic characterization of microstructures using acousto-optic-modulated-stroboscopic-interferometry

Abstract Mechanical and electro-mechanical advancements to the nano-scale require comprehensive and systematic testing at the micro-scale in order to understand the underlying influences that define the micro/nano device both from a fabrication and operational point of view. In this regard, surface metrology measurements, as well as static and dynamic characteristics will become very important and need to be experimentally determined in order to describe the system fully. These integrated tests are difficult to implement at dimensions where interaction with the device can seriously impact the results obtained. Hence, a characterization method to obtain valid experimental information without interfering with the functionality of the device needs to be developed. In this work, an Acousto Optic Modulated Stroboscopic Interferometer (AOMSI) is presented and employed to obtain surface, static and dynamic properties of micro-scale structures. This method has the advantage of being a high-speed visualization technique that can provide details of surface metrology as well as static/dynamic displacements and modal profiles. In this regard, it is a non-contacting approach that can be implemented without negatively impacting structurally sensitive devices especially at the nano-scale. The experimental setup can incorporate both thermo-mechanical and electro-mechanical loading in order to quantify operational and/or environmental influences. This method has the advantage of obtaining real time vibrating shape modes when compared to single point scanning methods. This approach is applied to cantilever microstructures. Sample test results are presented and compared with theory and are in good agreement.
Poly[tetrakis(μ-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-olato)iron(II)dipotassium].

The title compound, [K2Fe{OCH(CF3)2}4]n, was formed from the reaction of potassium hexa­fluoro­isopropoxide with iron(II) chloride in toluene. The FeII atom has a highly distorted tetra­hedral coordination environment. All four of the non-equivalent hexa­fluoro­isoprop­oxy O atoms link the FeII atoms to one of the K+ atoms in an alternating chain of Fe—O—K—O fused four-membered rings, with K—Fe distances of 3.715 (2) and 3.717 (2) A. This K+ atom is also bridged to eight of the F atoms. The other K+ atom is bonded to only two of the O atoms, but has seven short K⋯F contacts, one of which links the chains into a three-dimensional arrangement. Weak hydrogen bonding between the lone H atoms on the hexa­fluoro­isoprop­oxy groups and F atoms is also present. The crystal studied was refined as an inversion twin.
Urokinase-type plasminogen activator increases hepatocyte growth factor activity required for skeletal muscle regeneration

The plasminogen system plays a crucial role in the repair of a variety of tissues, including skeletal muscle. We hypothesized that urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) promotes muscle regeneration by activating hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which, in turn, stimulates proliferation of myoblasts required for regeneration. In our studies, levels of active HGF and phosphorylation of the HGF receptor c-met were increased after muscle injury in wild-type mice. Compared with wild-type animals, mice deficient in uPA (uPA−/−) had markedly reduced HGF levels and c-met activation after muscle damage. This reduced HGF activity in uPA−/− animals was associated with decreased cell proliferation, myoblast accumulation, and new muscle fiber formation. On the other hand, HGF activity was enhanced at early time points in PAI-1−/− mice compared with wild-type mice and the PAI-1−/− animals exhibited accelerated muscle fiber regeneration. Furthermore, administration of exogenous uPA rescued HGF levels and muscle regeneration in uPA−/− mice, and an HGF-blocking antibody reduced HGF activity and muscle regeneration in wild-type mice. We also found that uPA promotes myoblast proliferation in vitro through its proteolytic activity, and this process was inhibited by an HGF-blocking antibody. Together, our findings demonstrate that uPA promotes muscle regeneration through HGF activation and subsequent myoblast proliferation.
Etch Pits on Calcite Cleavage Faces

THIS communication describes some of the effects observed on calcite cleavage faces after etching with dilute acid. Puchegger1 has reported etch pits which formed a rib-like pattern on either side of scratch marks made on calcite. More striking features are described here.
Hold on to This!: Strategies for Teacher Feedback in Online Dance Courses

AbstractDrawn from current research on web-based learning, this practical article presents applied research and informed applications for online dance educators engaged in undergraduate and graduate dance education course work. With a focus on written assessment feedback, the author provides a review of recent literature, an overview of written feedback types and characteristics, and examples and writing approaches for effective and supportive qualitative feedback. Challenges and unresolved concerns are explored. Given the dearth of published research specifically in online dance education, the article concludes with a series of recommendations and strategies for readers’ consideration.
Abstract 2527: Potent, highly selective peptidomimetic prodrugs targeting the SH2 domain of Stat3 decrease vasculogenic mimicry, invasion, and anchorage independent growth of cancer cells

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) transmits signals from IL-6 family cytokines, EGF and VEGF. Stat3 is constitutively activated in lung, head and neck, breast, and prostate cancers, AML and other malignancies, providing a target for cancer drug design. To uncouple Stat3 from its roles in proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, and invasion, we are targeting its SH2 domain with phosphopeptide mimetics derived from the recognition sequence, pTyr-Leu-Pro-Gln. Molecular modeling indicated that a methyl group attached to the β-position of a pTyr mimic would enhance affinity due to hydrophobic contact. This modification increased affinity 2-3 fold in a series of peptidomimetics based on pCinn-Xxx-Yyy-Gln-NHBn (pCinn = 4-phosphorylcinnamic acid), resulting in IC50 values of 35 − 112 nM in a biochemical fluorescence polarization assay. Conversion of these to bis-pivaloyloxymethyl (POM) protected difluoromethylphosphonate prodrugs resulted in complete inhibition of the phosphorylation of Tyr705 of Stat3 at concentrations of 0.5 − 1 μM in breast, ovarian, and melanoma cells. Prodrugs were selective for Stat3 over other SH2 domain-containing proteins such as Stat1, Stat5, Src, and PI3K p85. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that prodrugs inhibited Stat3-targeted gene expression. Prodrugs were not cytotoxic to cells grown in 2D cultures on plastic dishes. However, potent inhibition of Stat3-driven processes such as vasculogenic mimicry, invasion, and anchorage independent growth in soft agar was observed. Conclusions: 1. peptidomimetic prodrugs are highly potent and selective inhibitors of Stat3; 2. cultured tumor cells do not depend on phosphorylation of Tyr705 of Stat3 for survival; 3. highly selective inhibitors of Stat3 phosphorylation are likely to be effective antitumor agents due to inhibition of invasion and angiogenesis. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2527.
Analysis of the friction (spin)-welding process for thermoplastics

The friction (spin)-welding process for thermoplastics is known to consist of four phases: (1) initial heating of the interface to the melting temperature by Coulomb friction, (2) unsteady melting and flow in the transverse direction, (3) steady-state flow, and (4) unsteady flow and solidification after the spin motion is stopped. Simple analytical models, which are based on an analysis of the vibration welding process, have been developed for the first three phases. These models have been used for analysing spin-welding data for poly (methyl methacrylate), poly(vinyl chloride), acetal and nylon 66. Estimates have been obtained for the film thickness, the film viscosity and the film temperature as functions of the weld process parameters. In particular, it has been shown that an increase in the weld velocity can result in a significant reduction of the film viscosity. The film viscosity is shown to be less sensitive to the weld pressure.
The failed gastrointestinal anastomosis: an inevitable catastrophe?

Abstract Background: There is a great deal of conflicting data regarding risk factors for anastomotic leakage, with most studies being small and looking only at anastomoses performed at one level of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Surgeons have looked at patient and technical variables with inconsistent findings. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence, possible predictive factors, and results of treatment of anastomotic dehiscence in patients undergoing operations at all levels of the GI tract. Study Design: We evaluated the records of 2,842 patients undergoing esophagogastrectomy, total or partial gastrectomy, enterectomy, and partial or subtotal colectomy over a 12-year period. Complete demographic data, comorbidity, and details regarding anastomotic technique were collected on all patients sustaining leaks along with diagnostic methods used, treatment modalities, and outcomes data. Using age and gender-matched case control methodology, we compared patients sustaining an anastomotic leak to those undergoing successful anastomoses. Results: Fifty-one of 2,842 patients (1.8%), ranging from 1.1% of enterectomy patients to 4.8% of total gastrectomy patients, sustained an anastomotic dehiscence. Foregut procedures were accompanied by a significantly increased rate of leakage, and depending on location, diagnosis was made between the 6th and 9th postoperative day. For each procedure, deaths from factors other than leakage far exceeded deaths from leaks. Standard risk stratifiers did not predict occurrence of leakage. Overall, 24% of patients sustaining a leak died, and this complication necessitated multiple reoperations and significantly increased length of hospital stay. Conclusions: In view of these findings, standard preoperative strategies to prepare these patients for operation may prove unsuccessful, because minimizing the incidence of anastomotic leaks will have little overall impact on survival. In addition, efforts to accomplish early hospital discharge may prove hazardous, because many of these patients manifest their leaks later in the postoperative period than is generally assumed. Improved management of GI tract disruption, including aggressive attempts at diagnosis, ICU care, antibiotics, and nutritional support may further increase survival in these patients.
Sympathoadrenergic mechanisms in reduced hemodynamic stress responses after exercise.

BROWNLEY, K. A., A. L. HINDERLITER, S. G. WEST, S. S. GIRDLER, A. SHERWOOD, and K. C. LIGHT. Sympathoadrenergic Mechanisms in Reduced Hemodynamic Stress Responses after Exercise. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 35, No. 6, pp. 978 –986, 2003. Purpose: This study examines the acute effects of moderate aerobic exercise on 1) hemodynamic and sympathetic activity during behavioral stress and 2) -adrenergic receptor responsivity in a biracial sample of 24 sedentary adults. Methods: Before and after exercise, blood pressure (BP), impedance-derived cardiovascular measures, and plasma norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI) were assessed during mental arithmetic and active speech tasks, and -adrenergic receptor responsivity was assessed using a standard isoproterenol challenge procedure. Results: After exercise, BP, NE, and EPI responses to stress were reduced (0.0001 P 0.08), preejection period (PEP) was elongated (P 0.0001), and 1- and 2-receptor responsivity (P 0.02) was enhanced. Approximately 65% of the prepost exercise mean arterial pressure response difference could be accounted for by changes in sympathetic factors, with change in NE and PEP being the single best predictors. Conclusions: Reduced BP responses to stress after acute exercise are strongly linked to a decrease in sympathetic drive, as evidenced by reduced NE responses and elongation of the PEP. Coincident with this overall dampening of the hemodynamic response to stress, increases in cardiac and vascular -adrenergic receptor responsivity occur. These findings may have important implications for future translational studies that seek to articulate the mechanisms through which regular aerobic exercise reduces the risks of hypertensive and coronary heart disease. Key Words: BLOOD PRESSURE, STRESS REACTIVITY, SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM, BETA-ADRENERGIC RECEPTOR, CATECHOLAMINE
Quantum mechanical modeling for the GeX2/GeHX + GeH4 reactions (X = H, F, Cl, and Br)

A systematic theoretical investigation was carried out to study the reactions of various germylenes with germane. Molecular structures of the reactants (GeX2 and GeHX, where X = H, F, Cl and Br) plus GeH4, transition states, and products have been optimized to understand the effects of halo-substituted germylenes. The basis set used is of double-ζ plus polarization quality with additional s- and p-type diffuse functions. Consistent with experiment, the theoretical gas-phase reaction GeH2 + GeH4 → Ge2H6 possesses a negative activation energy. The predicted activation energies reveal interesting trends for both mono- and di- halo-substituted germylenes, −1.5 [GeH2], +20.5 [GeHF], +59.9 [GeF2], +18.0 [GeHCl], +46.8 [GeCl2], +17.3 [GeHBr], and +42.9 kcal mol−1 [GeBr2]. There is a noteworthy relationship between the activation energies and the singlet−triplet splittings of the divalent germylenes. We report for the first time rate constants for the transfer of hydrogen, evaluated using standard transition-stat...
Cardiopulmonary toxicity of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in the anesthetized dog

Abstract Eighteen anesthetized dogs were treated with 0.5 mg/kg Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or control vehicle by iv injection, and cardio-pulmonary responses were determined in intact and vagotomized animals. Blood specimens were examined periodically for pO 2 , pCO 2 , pH, and lactate and pyruvate concentrations. In addition, cardiac output, heart rate, and lung compliance ( C L ) and resistance ( R L ) were measured. Δ 9 -Tetrahydrocannabinol markedly increased R L in intact dogs but not in vagotomized dogs, while C L remained essentially unchanged in both intact and vagotomized animals. The administration of THC had no effect on arterial blood gases in intact or vagotomized dogs as compared to controls. However, intact animals, unlike those vagotomized, exhibited a significant decrease in blood pH. Bradycardia developed in intact animals (28% decrease in heart rate), which could not be completely prevented by vagotomy (17% decrease in heart rate). Cardiac output also decreased in intact and, to a lesser extent, in vagotomized animals. Diminished cardiac output was associated with metabolic acidosis characterized by an increase in blood lactate and in the lactate-pyruvate ratio. The administration of THC in dogs resulted in an increase in R L , which appears to be vagally mediated and is not accompanied by a decrease in C L or blood gas changes.
Loop-again measurement and feedback oscillator design

The feasibility of a technique for the design of feedback oscillators is reported. An intermediate step is presented during which the loop gain of oscillators can be measured and tuned. Results for an oscillator operating at 6 GHz demonstrate that the output frequency and power of feedback oscillators can be predicted with sufficient accuracy using small signal loop-gain measurements together with an empirical equation given by Johnson. >
Dynamic Compensation of a Synthetic Jetlike Actuator for Closed-Loop Cavity Flow Control

Actuation devices are crucial components of closed-loop flow control schemes. Synthetic jetlike actuators, which are commonly employed in cavity flow control, exhibit a dynamic response that, if ignored, may significantly affect the overall characteristics of the closed-loop system. This paper presents the development and implementation of a dynamic compensator for a synthetic jetlike compression driver actuator which has been successfully implemented for feedback control of subsonic cavity flows. A time-delay model of the actuator dynamics is obtained from experimental data using subspace-based identification methods. The model is designed to match the frequency response of the physical system in a frequency range of interest that covers the resonance frequencies of the cavity. The model is then used for the synthesis of a dynamic controller which employs a Smith predictor in conjunction with an H ∞ mixed-sensitivity design. Order reduction is applied to obtain a low-order digital controller amenable to real-time applications. The compensator is retrofitted to an existing cavity flow control architecture, and used to force the actuator output to closely follow the input commands, thereby compensating undesirable actuator dynamics. Experiments show that the integration of the actuator compensator within the cavity control system significantly improves closed-loop performance.
Thermal Fatigue of a Nickel-Base Alloy

The results of conventional (Coffin-type) thermal-fatigue tests of Hastelloy N are reported. The plastic-strains induced by thermal stresses ranged from a hundred micro-units to more than ten-thousand microunits and correlated well with fatigue life. The slope of the plastic-strain fatigue relationship differs from the conventional slope of minus one half being about −0.9. The thermal-fatigue data are in good agreement with the isothermal (1300 and 1500 deg F) strain fatigue data available on this alloy. The same plastic-strain criterion for failure describes the results of tests where plastic flow is produced by yielding and a combination of yielding and stress relaxation. The plastic-strain energy per cycle versus life suggests that a constant plastic work to failure exists for this alloy. The implications of such a criterion are discussed.
Smoking, internalized heterosexism, and HIV disease management among male couples

High rates of cigarette smoking have been observed among HIV-positive individuals. Smoking has been linked to HIV-related medical complications and non-AIDS defining cancers and negatively impacts on immune function and virologic control. Although internalized heterosexism has been related to smoking behaviors, little is known about associations between partners' reports of smoking, internalized heterosexism, and HIV medication management in male couples with HIV. A sample of 266 male couples completed baseline assessments for a cohort study examining relationship factors and HIV treatment. A computer-based survey assessed self-reported smoking behaviors, alcohol use, internalized heterosexism, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. HIV-positive men also provided blood samples to assess viral load. Approximately 30% of the sample reported that they are currently smoking cigarettes. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, men in a primary relationship with a partner who reported currently smoking had more than five-fold greater odds of reporting smoking. Higher levels of internalized heterosexism and financial hardship were each independently associated with greater odds of reporting smoking. Among HIV-positive men on ART (n = 371), having a partner who reported smoking was associated with almost three-fold greater odds of having a detectable viral load. Our findings add new support to the evidence of romantic partners influencing each other's health behaviors, and demonstrate an association between smoking and disease management within male couples. Future research should explore the interpersonal and social contexts of smoking in order to develop interventions that meet the unique needs of male couples.
Endocannabinoid contribution to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol discrimination in rodents

The mechanism through which marijuana produces its psychoactive effects is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. These receptors are normally activated by endogenous lipids, including anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). A logical “first step” in determination of the role of these endocannabinoids in THC׳s psychoactive effects is to investigate the degree to which pharmacologically induced increases in anandamide and/or 2-AG concentrations through exogenous administration and/or systemic administration of inhibitors of their metabolism, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) or monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), respectively, share THC׳s discriminative stimulus effects. To this end, adult male mice and rats were trained to discriminate THC (5.6 and 3 mg/kg, respectively). In Experiment 1, exogenous administration of anandamide or 2-AG did not substitute for THC in mice nor was substitution enhanced by co-administration of the FAAH or MAGL inhibitors, URB597 and N-arachidonyl maleimide (NAM), respectively. Significant decreases in responding may have prevented assessment of adequate endocannabinoid doses. In mice trained at higher baseline response rates (Experiment 2), the FAAH inhibitor PF3845 (10 mg/kg) enhanced anandamide substitution for THC without producing effects of its own. The MAGL inhibitor JZL184 increased brain levels of 2-AG in vitro and in vivo, increased THC-like responding without co-administration of 2-AG. In rats, neither URB597 nor JZL184 engendered significant THC-appropriate responding, but co-administration of these two enzyme inhibitors approached full substitution. The present results highlight the complex interplay between anandamide and 2-AG and suggest that endogenous increases of both endocannabinoids are most effective in elicitation of THC-like discriminative stimulus effects.
An overview of lexicographic choice under uncertainty

This overview focuses on lexicographic choice under conditions of uncertainty. First, lexicographic versions of traditional (von Neumann-Morgenstern) expected utility theory are described where the usual Archimedean axiom is weakened. The role of these lexicographic variants in explaining some well-known “paradoxes” of choice theory is reviewed. Next, the significance of lexicographic choice for game theory is discussed. Finally, some lexicographic extensions of the classical maximin decision rule are described.
Cloning and characterization of the white gene from Anopheles gambiae.

A 14 kb region of genomic DN A containing the X-linked Anopheles gambiae eye colour gene, white, was cloned and sequenced. Genomic clones containing distinct white+ alleles were polymorphic for the insertion of a small transposable element in intron 3, and differed at 1% of nucleotide positions compared. Sequence was also determined from a rare 2914 bp cDNA. Comparison of cDNA and genomic sequences established an intron-exon structure distinct from Drosophila white. Despite a common trend in Anopheles and Drosophila of weak codon bias given low levels of gene expression, codon usage by Anopheles gambiae white was strongly biased. Overall amino acid identity between the predicted mosquito and fruitfly proteins was 64%, but dropped to 14% at the amino terminus. To correlate phenotypically white-eyed strains of A. gambiae with structural lesions in white, five available strains were analysed by PCR and Southern blotting. Although these strains carried allelic mutations, independently generated by gamma radiation (three strains) or spontaneous events (two strains), no white lesions were detected. Significantly, another non-allelic X-linked mutation, causing an identical white-eyed phenotype, has been correlated with a structural defect in the cloned white gene (Benedict et al., 1995). Taken together, these observations suggest that the white-eyed mutants analysed in the present study carry mutations in a second eye colour gene and are most likely white+.