cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NLRC4-driven production of IL-1β discriminates between pathogenic and commensal bacteria and promotes host intestinal defense.

Intestinal phagocytes transport oral antigens and promote immune tolerance, but their role in innate immune responses remains unclear. Here we report that intestinal phagocytes are anergic to Toll-like receptor ligands or commensals, but constitutively express pro-interleukin-1β (proIL-1β). Upon infection with pathogenic Salmonella or Pseudomonas, intestinal phagocytes produce mature IL-1β through the NLRC4 inflammasome, but not tumor necrosis factor or IL-6. Mice deficient in NLRC4 or IL-1 receptor on a Balb/c background were highly susceptible to orogastric but not intraperitoneal infection with Salmonella. Increased lethality was preceded by impaired expression of endothelial adhesion molecules, lower neutrophil recruitment, and poor intestinal pathogen clearance. Thus, NLRC4-dependent IL-1β production by intestinal phagocytes represents a specific response discriminating pathogenic from commensal bacteria and contributes to host defense in the intestine.
Expression of Green Fluorescent Protein Gene in Somatic Chimeric Chickens Produced by Transplantation of Transfected Chicken Embryonic Fibroblasts

To investigate whether the genetically modified somatic cells can survive and express foreign gene for a long time after being transplanted into avian embryo, chicken embryonic fibroblasts (CEFs) as a cell vehicle for delivering foreign protein were transfected with the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene, and were introduced into early chicken embryos via blood vessel microinjection at 65-70h of incubation at 38.5°C. The manipulated eggs were continued to incubate at same condition. The chimerisms of the transplanted CEFs were preliminarily observed under fluorescence microscopy at the different stages in the embryos and the hatchlings. Meanwhile, the chimeric positions of the donor CEFs and the expression of GFP were further examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that fluorescent-labeled CEFs embed in the different organs of the recipients including brain, heart, liver, intestine, muscle, etc. and can survive in post-hatch chickens for at least 134 days and the GFP gene can be expressed normally. Long-term survival of the donor CEFs in recipient and normal expression of the GFP gene imply that this approach can be explored for continuous production of target protein in the host chicken.
An in vitro investigation of the differential cytotoxic responses of human and rat lung epithelial cell lines using TiO2 nanoparticles

The aim of this study was to compare the cytotoxicity endpoints in two different lung epithelial cell lines following in vitro exposures to well characterised nano (or ultrafine) and fine-sized TiO2 particles and, subsequently, compare them to previously reported in vivo lung toxicity data. Cells in culture (human lung epithelial (A549) or rat lung epithelial cells (L2)) were incubated with doses of 0.8, 8.0, or 16.0 ?g/cm? of the following rutile TiO2 particle-types: ultrafine-sized TiO2 particles with an alumina surface coating; ultrafine-sized TiO2 particles with an alumina and amorphous silica surface coating; fine-sized TiO2 particles with an alumina surface coating; or fine-sized TiO2 particles with an alumina and amorphous silica surface coating. Following incubation, the particle-exposed cells were evaluated for cytotoxicity endpoints in the culture media, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, 1-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-3,5-diphenylformazan (MTT) activity, and changes in micro-total protein at post-incubation time points of 1, 4, 24, and 48 h. Results showed that cytotoxicity responses of human lung epithelial cells were similar, but not identical, to responses of rat lung epithelial cells. Generally, the ultrafine TiO2 particles increased the levels of LDH in the culture media of cells more often than the fine TiO2 particle-types. These in vitro findings were not consistent with results measured in previous in vivo studies in the lungs of rats using the same particle-types. In the in vivo system, neither the fine, nor ultrafine, TiO2 particles produced sustained cytotoxic effects in the lung fluids of rats. Further, results indicate that the 48 h time point in the in vitro time course study does not accurately reflect the cytotoxicological response of these nanoparticle-types. In vitro techniques will need to be further developed and validated. Further, other particle-types will need to be tested in order to provide useful screening data for predicting in vivo pulmonary toxicity for a variety of nanoparticles.
A study of the Cu3Au(110) surface structure by RHEED

Abstract The (110) surface of a Cu 3 Au single crystal (precise composition is Cu 71.7 Au 28.3 has been studied by RHEED and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) at a range of temperature in UHV. Surface compositions which result from different annealing times are measured by AES and compared with low energy ion scattering results. Stable 2 × 1 and 4 × 1 surface superstructures are observed. At temperatures lower than 190°C the surface exhibits the 4 × 1 structure, while between 190 and 374°C it has a 2 × 1 structure. We believe that these superstructures are formed by chemical ordering of the surface atoms. A tentative surface atomic model, in which the 2 × 1 structure occurs in the first layer and the 4 × 1 structure occurs in the second layer, is given. By using this model, some experimental observations can be better understood. Some possible evidence of a surface long period structure has also been observed and possible further experiments arc discussed.
Rational Design of Electrocatalytic Interfaces: The Multielectron Reduction of Nitrate in Aqueous Electrolytes

An electrode incorporating two distinct heterogeneous electrocatalysts acting in series was specifically designed to promote the reduction of nitrate beyond the nitrite stage in weakly buffered aqueous solutions (pH = 3) containing Cd2+. This novel interface consists of Au nanoparticles, Au(np), on which underpotentially deposited Cd reduces nitrate predominantly to nitrite, dispersed on a hemin-modified glassy carbon (GC) surface, Hm|GC, where nitrite is further reduced to yield hydroxylamine as the only product detected using a rotating Au(ring)|Hm|Au(np)|GC (disk) electrode. Additional evidence in support of this series mechanism was obtained from numerical simulations in which the bifunctional electrode was regarded as a hexagonal, closed-packed array of coplanar concentric Cd|Au(np) disks and Hm|GC rings (with no insulating gap), using rate constants determined independently from rotating Au and Hm|GC disk electrodes in solutions containing either nitrate or nitrite, respectively.
Attachment and expectations about future relationships: Moderation by accessibility

This article examined the relationship between internal working models of self and other (Bowlby, 1969) and expectations for satisfaction in a future relationship, and how that relationship is moderated by the accessibility of one's internal models. Study one showed that the model of self was predictive of expected satisfaction, but the model of other was not. In study two, the results of study one were replicated. However, using a reaction time task to measure the chronic accessibility of internal models, it was shown that the relationship between model of self and expected satisfaction existed only for people with highly accessible internal models. The implications of these findings for a more cognitive view of attachment-processes is discussed.
Shielding properties of the UPb3 intermetallic compound

The objective of this paper is to illustrate the shielding properties of UPb3. A review of the literature indicated that this composition would be the most desirable of the uranium-lead system for potential use as a shielding material. In calculating the shielding properties, a point source geometry was assumed, and an analytical expression for the dose rate was then derived. The absorption coefficients for the compound were determined from the weight fraction of each component, and its corresponding absorption coefficient. From these coefficients, an equivalent atomic number of 85.2 was found for UPb3. Buildup factors for UPb3 were then determined, using this equivalent atomic number. The results of this analysis demonstrated that UPb3 should be a very effective shield against gamma radiation. In comparison with lead, UPb3 will effect a substantial reduction in both size and weight of a shield. In addition, the high melting point of UPb3 (1220°C) gives it a definite advantage over lead. Although fabrication costs were not included in this analysis, the literature indicates that UPb3 can be produced on a price competitive basis.
Low-Complexity High-Order Vector-Based Mismatch Shaping in Multibit $\Delta\Sigma$ ADCs

This paper presents a new vector-based mismatch-shaping technique for multibit ΔΣ analog-to-digital converters. It has low hardware complexity, which only linearly grows with the number of unit digital-to-analog converter elements. Compared with the existing low-complexity vector-based technique, this technique does not require extra filters and has much better mismatch-shaping effect and stability. Simulations under various conditions prove its validity.
Mutagenicity screening of five methyl carbamate insecticides and their nitroso derivatives using mutants of Salmonella typhimurium LT2.

Abstract The mutagenic activity of five methyl carbamate insecticides — carbaryl, baygon, BUX-Ten, landrin and methomyl — and their nitroso derivatives were investigated using histidine auxotrophs — his TA98, his TA100, his TA1535, his TA1537 and his TA1538 — of Salmonella typhimurium LT2 derived by Ames. The methyl carbamate insecticides did not cause a significant increase in the number of revertant colonies in any of the strains used. In contrast, the nitroso derivatives of the carbamate insecticides greatly increased the number of colonies on plates inoculated with strains his TA100 and his TA1535. We conclude that the nitroso derivatives of the tested methyl carbamate insecticides are potent mutagens; whereas, the parent insecticides are non-mutagenic.
Distributed energy-efficient target tracking with binary sensor networks

Target tracking is a typical and important cooperative sensing application of wireless sensor networks. We study it in its most basic form, assuming a binary sensing model in which each sensor returns only 1-bit information regarding target's presence or absence within its sensing range. A novel, real-time and distributed target tracking algorithm is introduced. The algorithm is energy efficient and fault tolerant. It estimates the target location, velocity, and trajectory in a distributed and asynchronous manner. The accuracy of the algorithm is analytically derived under an ideal binary sensing model and extensive simulations of ideal, imperfect, and faulty sensing models show that the algorithm achieves good performance. It outperforms other published algorithms by yielding highly accurate estimates of the target's location, velocity, and trajectory.
CD2-associated Protein (CD2AP) Enhances Casitas B Lineage Lymphoma-3/c (Cbl-3/c)-mediated Ret Isoform-specific Ubiquitination and Degradation via Its Amino-terminal Src Homology 3 Domains

Ret is the receptor tyrosine kinase for the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family of neuronal growth factors. Upon activation by GDNF, Ret is rapidly polyubiquitinated and degraded. This degradation process is isoform-selective, with the longer Ret51 isoform exhibiting different degradation kinetics than the shorter isoform, Ret9. In sympathetic neurons, Ret degradation is induced, at least in part, by a complex consisting of the adaptor protein CD2AP and the E3-ligase Cbl-3/c. Knockdown of Cbl-3/c using siRNA reduced the GDNF-induced ubiquitination and degradation of Ret51 in neurons and podocytes, suggesting that Cbl-3/c was a predominant E3 ligase for Ret. Coexpression of CD2AP with Cbl-3/c augmented the ubiquitination of Ret51 as compared with the expression of Cbl-3/c alone. Ret51 ubiquitination by the CD2AP·Cbl-3/c complex required a functional ring finger and TKB domain in Cbl-3/c. The SH3 domains of CD2AP were sufficient to drive the Cbl-3/c-dependent ubiquitination of Ret51, whereas the carboxyl-terminal coiled-coil domain of CD2AP was dispensable. Interestingly, activated Ret induced the degradation of CD2AP, but not Cbl-3/c, suggesting a potential inhibitory feedback mechanism. There were only two major ubiquitination sites in Ret51, Lys1060 and Lys1107, and the combined mutation of these lysines almost completely eliminated both the ubiquitination and degradation of Ret51. Ret9 was not ubiquitinated by the CD2AP·Cbl-3/c complex, suggesting that Ret9 was down-regulated by a fundamentally different mechanism. Taken together, these results suggest that only the SH3 domains of CD2AP were necessary to enhance the E3 ligase activity of Cbl-3/c toward Ret51.
Overview of optical rectennas for solar energy harvesting

Although the concept of using optical rectenna for harvesting solar energy was first introduced four decades ago, only recently has it invited a surge of interest, with dozens of laboratories around the world working on various aspects of the technology. An optical rectenna couples an ultra-high-speed diode to a submicron antenna so that the incoming radiation received by the antenna is rectified by the diode to produce a DC power output. The result is a technology that can be efficient and inexpensive, requiring only low-cost materials. Conventional classical rectification theory does not apply at optical frequencies, necessitating the application of quantum photon-assisted tunneling theory to describe the device operation. At first glance it would appear that the ultimate conversion efficiency is limited only by the Landsberg limit of 93%, but a more sober analysis that includes limitation due to the coherence of solar radiation leads to a result that coincides with the Trivich-Flinn limit of 44%. Innovative antenna designs are required to achieve high efficiency at frequencies where resistive losses in metal are substantial. The diode most often considered for rectennas make use of electron tunneling through ultra-thin insulators in metal-insulator-metal (MIM) diodes. The most severe constraint is that the impedances of the antenna and diodes must match for efficient power transfer. The consequence is an RC time constant that cannot be achieved with parallel-plate MIM diodes, leading to the need for real innovations in diode structures. Technologies under consideration include sharp-tip and traveling-wave MIM diodes, and graphene geometric diodes. We survey the technologies under consideration.
Functional properties of cortical feedback projections to the olfactory bulb.

Summary Sensory perception is not a simple feed-forward process, and higher brain areas can actively modulate information processing in "lower" areas. We used optogenetic methods to examine how cortical feedback projections affect circuits in the first olfactory processing stage, the olfactory bulb. Selective activation of back projections from the anterior olfactory nucleus/cortex (AON) revealed functional glutamatergic synaptic connections on several types of bulbar interneurons. Unexpectedly, AON axons also directly depolarized mitral cells (MCs), enough to elicit spikes reliably in a time window of a few milliseconds. MCs received strong disynaptic inhibition, a third of which arises in the glomerular layer. Activating feedback axons in vivo suppressed spontaneous as well as odor-evoked activity of MCs, sometimes preceded by a temporally precise increase in firing probability. Our study indicates that cortical feedback can shape the activity of bulbar output neurons by enabling precisely timed spikes and enforcing broad inhibition to suppress background activity.
Equivalent diffusion coefficient of clay-rich geological formations: comparison between numerical and analytical estimates

Laboratory experiments in rock samples collected from clay-rich formations indicate that the effective molecular diffusion coefficient (D) is a heterogeneous and anisotropic property. Since laboratory measurements of D are representative of a very small volume, upscaling is necessary in order to incorporate these data in large-scale numerical models of diffusive transport. In this work we address the problem of the estimating the equivalent diffusion coefficient (D eq ), in terms of total diffusive flux, in a three-dimensional domain characterized by a heterogeneous and anisotropic spatial distribution of D. D eq was estimated from the results of steady-state diffusive transport simulations through several realizations of the D field. The ensemble averages of D eq from fields with different degrees of heterogeneity and anisotropy were then compared with estimates from analytical upscaling expressions based on stochastic as well as power-averaging approaches. These expressions are largely based on similar expressions developed for calculating the effective hydraulic conductivity in heterogeneous and anisotropic domains. Comparisons showed that stochastic expressions provide accurate estimates of D eq only for fields characterized by low heterogeneity. Within the range of heterogeneity and anisotropy considered, our results showed that a power-averaging expression is very accurate in predicting D eq especially when the parameter p i is estimated through fitting of the numerical results. Nonetheless, the relationship between this parameter and the anisotropy ratio is linear.
Algebraic approach to supergravity in superspace

Abstract The methods of algebraic geometry are used to construct supergravity theories in a homogeneous superspace OSp( N |4) with structure group Sl(2C) ⊗ O N and base supermanifold the coset space OSp ( N |4)/( Sl (2 C )⊗ O N ). The nature and origin of the supersymmetry transformations is completely elucidated. The equations of motion for O 1 and O 2 supergravity are obtained, as the realization of this symmetry on the space-time components h μ of the “supervierbein”.
Psychological Factors Associated with Chronic Dizziness in Patients Aged 60 and Older

This paper investigates the prevalence and character of psychological disorders accompanying chronic dizziness in older patients.
RETROPERITONEAL HEMORRHAGE DURING HEPARIN THERAPY.

Abstract The records of all cases of retroperitoneal hemorrhage seen in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania since 1953 were reviewed. Most cases were postoperative or post-traumatic. In almost one third, however, the hemorrhage occurred in patients on heparin therapy. Heparin in all instances but one had been injected in the thigh or buttock. From these sites heparin and the resultant hematoma could have reached the retroperitoneal space by extending up from the site of injection. The fascia in this area is so arranged as to allow this. The cause of thrombocytopenia in 5 patients is discussed. We suggest that heparin, when injected subcutaneously, be given through a small bore needle (No. 27) into the abdominal fat pad.
Neuroendocrine phenotype alteration and growth suppression through apoptosis by MK-2206, an allosteric inhibitor of AKT, in carcinoid cell lines in vitro

Carcinoids are neuroendocrine malignancies characterized by their overproduction of various bioactive hormones that lead to the carcinoid syndrome. We have shown previously that AKT serves as a key regulator of growth and phenotypic expression of tumor markers in carcinoids by the genetic depletion of AKT expression. However, no small-molecule inhibitor of AKT kinase activity has been developed until recently. MK-2206, a novel allosteric inhibitor of AKT, is currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of solid tumors. In this study, we explored the effect of MK-2206 on carcinoid cell proliferation and bioactive hormone production in vitro in two carcinoid cell lines - pancreatic carcinoid BON and bronchopulmonary H727. Treatment with MK-2206 effectively suppressed AKT phosphorylation at serine 473 and significantly reduced cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Most importantly, MK-2206 treatment resulted in a significant reduction in ASCL1, CgA, and NSE expression, collectively recognized as markers of neuroendocrine tumor malignancy. Furthermore, MK-2206-treated cells showed an increase in levels of cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase-3, with a concomitant reduction in levels of Mcl-1 and XIAP, indicating that the antiproliferative effect of MK-2206 occurs through the induction of apoptosis. In conclusion, MK-2206 suppresses carcinoid tumor growth, and alters its neuroendocrine phenotype, indicating that this drug may be beneficial for patients with carcinoid syndrome. These studies merit further clinical investigation.
An Empirical Investigation of Consumer Concerns About Nutrition, Taste, Price and Chemical Additives During Meat Shopping

Abstract This study revealed that one third of the consumers considered their meat being free from chemical additives as the most beneficial factor when they shopped for meat, comparing to nutritional value, taste of meat, and price of meat. About 20 percent of the consumers expressed the same concern about nutritional value, taste or price, respectively. Furthermore, consumers' demographic and socioeconomic characteristics influenced their concerns about chemical additives, nutrition, taste and price.
Effect of intrauterine iodine infusion on luteal function and blood PGF2a concentration in cycling goats

Abstract Studies were conducted to determine the effect of iodine infusion on the luteal function of goats, as evident by blood progesterone concentration, and on plasma PGF 2a levels. Ten cycling mixed breed goats were synchronized for estrus by PGF 2a (5 mg) and given a single intrauterine iodine infusion on day 5 and on day 15 of the estrous cycle. Iodine infusion on day 5 (group II) resulted in shorter estrous length (8.2 days) and a 7-fold increase in plasma PGF 2a concentration as compared to control animals (group I) given distilled water infusion. Similar infusion on day 15 (group III), on the other hand, failed to alter the estrcus cycle length but induced a moderate increase in PGF 2a concentration which lasted only for a brief period. The progesterone levels declined concomitantly as PGF 2a levels rose after iodine infusion in group II animals but failed to decline until after 24 hours in group III animals. The studies indicate that the endometrium reacts to the chemical stimuli and releases PGF 2a which, in turn, alters the luteal function.
On þ-adic Expansions of Algebraic Integers

It is well known that every rational integer has a finite or periodic p-adic expansion. In this paper a more general notion of Þ-adic expansion is introduced for algebraic integers, where given a number field K and a principal prime ideal Þ in K, a different choice of generator for Þ is allowed in each stage of the expansion. With the notion of Þ-adic expansion, we prove that there is always a finite or periodic Þ-adic expansion for every algebraic integer. Moreover, we prove a bound on the periodicity of the Þ-adic expansion that depends only on the number field K and the prime ideal Þ. The proof yields an algorithm for constructing such a Þ-adic expansion for elements in the ring O of algebraic integers of K, through finding an approximation to the closest vector on the lattice spanned by the unit group of O.As a special case we prove that, similar to rational integers, Gaussian integers are finite or periodic not only in Þ-adic expansion but also in π-adic expansion, where a fixed generator π for Þ is used in each stage of the expansion. Moreover, the time complexity of finding a π-adic expansion for a Gaussian integer is polynomial in the length of input, the period, and p, where p is the rational prime contained in Þ. We implement the algorithm for some quadratic number fields and provide examples which illustrate that the Þ-adic expansion of the elements in O is either finite or periodic.
Heart fatty acid binding protein is upregulated during porcine adipocyte development

Heart fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP) has been associated with intramuscular fat content in pigs. In the current study, we showed that expression of H-FABP mRNA in adipose tissue of adult pigs was 8.5% of that in heart and 30% of that in skeletal muscle, and that H-FABP mRNA level was more than 10% of that of adipocyte fatty acid binding protein mRNA in adipose tissue. Levels of H-FABP mRNA reached a maximum in adipose tissue from 7-d neonates, with no further increase in the adult. Also, H-FABP mRNA was induced during adipogenic differentiation of stromal-vascular cells derived from adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. In conclusion, H-FABP may play a role in adipose tissue development and function in the pig.
A tale of two lipids: Mycobacterium tuberculosis phagosome maturation arrest.

Abstract Mycobacterium tuberculosis persistence in human populations relies on its ability to inhibit phagosomal maturation. M. tuberculosis resides in a pathogen-friendly phagosome escaping lysosomal bactericidal mechanisms and efficient antigen presentation in the host phagocytic cell. M. tuberculosis phagosome maturation arrest includes the action of mycobacterial lipid products, which mimic mammalian phosphatidylinositols, targeting host cell membrane trafficking processes. These products interfere with membrane trafficking and organelle biogenesis processes initiated by Ca2+ fluxes, and ending with host cell Rab GTP-binding proteins and their effectors. The block includes phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and membrane tethering molecules that prepare phagosomes for fusion with other organelles. Understanding these processes could provide new targets for pharmacological intervention in tuberculosis.
SOME PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL RELATIONSHIPS TO THE FISHERIES OF THE LOUISIANA COAST

ABSTRACT Mississippi River alluviation has provided Louisiana with a deltaic coast which contrasts sharply with the remainder of the Gulf littoral. Salient differences lie in coast configuration, hydrographic patterns, water chemistry, sediments, and vegetation. Although the species of marine life are largely the same here as elsewhere in the Gulf area, their ecology is closely governed by and geared to the highly fluctuating deltaic environment. The mud bottoms, decaying marsh grass, and nutrients provided by the Mississippi River are especially favorable for an abundant shellfish population. The very productive fisheries of Louisiana are largely concerned with shellfish production and such plankton feeders as menhaden. The fisheries are concentrated in those coastal areas most actively influenced by the Mississippi drainage.
Abstract C78: A variant of the oncogene RET might be a molecular target in BRAFwt melanoma cells.

Desmoplastic malignant melanomas (DMM) are clinically, pathologically, and molecularly different from other melanomas. Patients with this subset of melanoma are generally older, with tumors exhibiting deeper levels of invasion, a low incidence of nodal involvement, and tend to track along nerves. Previous studies indicate that DMM tumors have a low prevalence of BRAFV600E mutations making them ineligible for targeted therapies with BRAF inhibitors. The oncogene RET is a tyrosine kinase receptor mainly associated with neuroendocrine cancers and is activated by the ligand glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Numerous studies suggest that given the neurotrophic features of DMM, a variant of RET (G691S, designated RETp) may be a potential molecular target. We examined human melanoma cell lines for RETp and the BRAFV600E mutation and demonstrated that these molecular changes were usually discordant suggesting that RETp might be an attractive molecular target in BRAFwt cells. Further we hypothesized that in tumors with the RETp genotype, certain TKIs may be more effective in inhibiting cell growth in environments rich with GDNF. We screened various melanoma cell lines with and without the RETp genotype and determined their response to clinically available small molecular weight inhibitors. The cell viability effects were accessed in the presence and/or absence of the RET co-receptor, GFRa1, and ligand, GDNF. We show that in cell lines carrying the RETp genotype, GDNF alone increases cell proliferation, and certain small molecular weight inhibitors may be more effective at inhibiting melanoma cell growth in environments rich in GDNF. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2011 Nov 12-16; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2011;10(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C78.
Association of short-term exposure to ground-level ozone and respiratory outpatient clinic visits in a rural location - Sublette County, Wyoming, 2008-2011.

Abstract Objective Short-term exposure to ground-level ozone has been linked to adverse respiratory and other health effects; previous studies typically have focused on summer ground-level ozone in urban areas. During 2008–2011, Sublette County, Wyoming (population: ~10,000 persons), experienced periods of elevated ground-level ozone concentrations during the winter. This study sought to evaluate the association of daily ground-level ozone concentrations and health clinic visits for respiratory disease in this rural county. Methods Clinic visits for respiratory disease were ascertained from electronic billing records of the two clinics in Sublette County for January 1, 2008–December 31, 2011. A time-stratified case-crossover design, adjusted for temperature and humidity, was used to investigate associations between ground-level ozone concentrations measured at one station and clinic visits for a respiratory health concern by using an unconstrained distributed lag of 0–3 days and single-day lags of 0 day, 1 day, 2 days, and 3 days. Results The data set included 12,742 case-days and 43,285 selected control-days. The mean ground-level ozone observed was 47±8 ppb. The unconstrained distributed lag of 0–3 days was consistent with a null association (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.990–1.012); results for lags 0, 2, and 3 days were consistent with the null. However, the results for lag 1 were indicative of a positive association; for every 10-ppb increase in the 8-h maximum average ground-level ozone, a 3.0% increase in respiratory clinic visits the following day was observed (aOR: 1.031; 95% CI: 0.994–1.069). Season modified the adverse respiratory effects: ground-level ozone was significantly associated with respiratory clinic visits during the winter months. The patterns of results from all sensitivity analyzes were consistent with the a priori model. Conclusions The results demonstrate an association of increasing ground-level ozone with an increase in clinic visits for adverse respiratory-related effects in the following day (lag day 1) in Sublette County; the magnitude was strongest during the winter months; this association during the winter months in a rural location warrants further investigation.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics induce bacterial biofilm formation

Biofilms are adherent aggregates of bacterial cells that form on biotic and abiotic surfaces, including human tissues. Biofilms resist antibiotic treatment and contribute to bacterial persistence in chronic infections. Hence, the elucidation of the mechanisms by which biofilms are formed may assist in the treatment of chronic infections, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the airways of patients with cystic fibrosis. Here we show that subinhibitory concentrations of aminoglycoside antibiotics induce biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. In P. aeruginosa, a gene, which we designated aminoglycoside response regulator (arr), was essential for this induction and contributed to biofilm-specific aminoglycoside resistance. The arr gene is predicted to encode an inner-membrane phosphodiesterase whose substrate is cyclic di-guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP)-a bacterial second messenger that regulates cell surface adhesiveness. We found that membranes from arr mutants had diminished c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase activity, and P. aeruginosa cells with a mutation changing a predicted catalytic residue of Arr were defective in their biofilm response to tobramycin. Furthermore, tobramycin-inducible biofilm formation was inhibited by exogenous GTP, which is known to inhibit c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase activity. Our results demonstrate that biofilm formation can be a specific, defensive reaction to the presence of antibiotics, and indicate that the molecular basis of this response includes alterations in the level of c-di-GMP.
Explanation of acousto-optic frequency multiplication in amorphous materials

Observed anomalous acousto-optic frequency multiplication in amorphous materials is explained for the first time. Theoretical models reviewed include the nonresonant standing-wave model, the first-order modulation model, and the second-order modulation model. It is found that only the nonresonant standing-wave model provides an explanation for the observed phenomena, and not the Other models. © 1993 John Wiley & sons, Inc.
QUANTITATIVE SPECIFICITY OF THE MNT REPRESSOR

The Mnt protein of Salmonella phage P22 binds site-specifically to its operator. To better understand this binding we used dideoxy DNA sequencing in a quantitative manner to determine the relative binding constants, and hence the relative free energies, of wild-type Mnt protein to a substantial number of variants of its operator. These measurements were supported by experiments which used the SELEX procedure to generate a set of operators from an initially randomized population. In the Discussion we show that the present model of Mnt protein/operator binding, due to Sauer and co-workers, along with the assumption of an independent contribution of each position in the operator to the total binding, provides a reasonably accurate description of the system. We also discuss the use of information content as a measure of DNA-protein binding specificity with the Mnt protein/operator system serving as an example and show again that the assumption of independence supports the current view of this case of site-specific binding.
Reconciliation of Owner and Contractor Views in Heavy Construction Projects

Delay and loss of productivity are the two main types of damage experienced by the contractor when the owner issues a change order. Courts have recognized critical path method schedule analysis as the preferred method of identifying and quantifying critical delays. As for the inefficiency damages, there is no direct way of measuring inefficiency due to its qualitative nature and the difficulty of linking the cause of the productivity loss to the damage. Most of the scholarly work published in this area was based on data supplied by the contractors; and that explains why there are discrepancies between what the contractor asks for and what the owner believes the contractor is entitled to. This study addresses the need for a statistical model to quantify the productivity loss from verifiable site data such as owner’s daily reports, change orders, drawings, and specifications, rather than rely solely on contractor surveys. A model is developed and validated to quantify the productivity loss in pipe work in r...
On the method of puzzles for key distribution

Merkle(1) has shown how keys can be exchanged over a public channel by the use of puzzles. His method gives a work advantage ofO(N2)/O(N). He also posed the problem of finding other methods of using puzzles that give better work advantage. This paper provides a solution to Merkle's problem. A new method of key exchange, called the nested puzzles method, is also introduced.
Role of human HGFIN/nmb in breast cancer

Introduction HGFIN, previously identified as nmb, and its homolog osteoactivin are single transmembrane proteins that are expressed in differentiated immune cells. These proteins exhibit properties that could potentiate tumorigenesis or decrease invasiveness. These seemingly opposing roles of HGFIN suggest that this protein might be central to malignancies and might also behave as a tumor suppressor. Consistent with the reported roles for HGFIN is the fact that this gene is regulated by p53 through multiple binding sites in the 5' flanking region, and is expressed in osteoblasts.
New York State Fire Gas Toxicity Requirements -- Past, Present and Future

In the early 1980s, New York State initiated fire safety legislation in response to great public concern regarding the combustion toxicity of materials used in the modem built environment. By December, 1986, New York had become the first state in the nation to require that combustion tox icity data on specified building materials and finishes be registered and made publicly accessible.
Individual Differences in Working Memory, Nonverbal IQ, and Mathematics Achievement and Brain Mechanisms Associated with Symbolic and Nonsymbolic Number Processing.

Abstract Individual differences in mathematics performance may stem from domain-general factors like working memory and intelligence. Parietal and frontal brain areas have been implicated in number processing, but the influence of such cognitive factors on brain activity during mathematics processing is not known. The relationship between brain mechanisms during symbolic and nonsymbolic number comparison and individual differences in working memory, nonverbal IQ, and mathematics achievement were investigated to determine possible associations with behavior and brain function. A number of brain areas showed correlations with working memory and number processing. For symbolic digits, working memory showed a positive relationship with brain activity in a network of bilateral parietal, temporal, and right frontal regions. For nonsymbolic dot arrays, working memory showed a negative relationship with several parietal and frontal brain areas. This relationship indicates differences between behavioral and brain function measures and points to the importance of working memory and basic number processing.
Methanesulfonyl fluoride enhances one-trial reward learning in mid-aged rats

In previous studies, 18-month-old rats have shown no significant retention 24 hours after the single acquisition trial in a one-trial discriminative reward learning task. In the present study, ten 18-month-old rats pretreated with 0.5 mg/kg MSF IP showed significantly better retention in terms of speed and errors than eleven 18-month-old rats pretreated with injection vehicle alone. However, twelve two-three-month-old rats pretreated with the same dose of MSF failed to show better retention than eleven two-three-month-old rats pretreated with vehicle alone.
Managing pests and their resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis: Can transgenic crops be better than sprays?

Insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can now be deployed either in sprays or transgenic plants. Some entomologists and environmentalists have argued that the sprays are preferable to plants because they are less likely to cause resistance. However Bt sprays are not generally competitive with chemical insecticides and seem unlikely to displace them. In contrast, transgenic plants appear to be sufficiently effective to displace chemicals, making such plants attractive from the standpoint of environmental protection. Further, simulation models using data from the diamondback moth and a laboratory experiment using the Indianmeal moth suggest that wider at least some circumstances, transgenic plants bearing only one Bt gene may be more effective than sprays for delaying resistance to Bt Resistance in a laboratory‐selected strain of the Colorado potato beetle is especially interesting because a strain that can survive Bt sprays and develop to maturity cannot develop successfully on transgenic pl...
The unusual phases of anhydrous and hydrated pinacol.

The structure of highly twinned pinacol (2,3-dimethyl-2,3-butanediol) monohydrate, the existence of which has been known since 1922, has been determined, and the structures of anhydrous pinacol and its two other known hydrates have been reinvestigated. All the phases are unusual. The anhydrous phase [Jeffrey & Robbins (1978). Acta Cryst. B34, 3817–3820] is exceptional among molecular crystals in having molecules located on three different symmetry sites (1, \overline 1 and 2). A hexagonal form of pinacol originally described as a second polymorph [Dahlqvist & Sillanpaa (2000). J. Mol. Struct. 524, 141–149] has been shown to be a solvate of uncertain composition that is very loosely packed. Pinacol hexahydrate, which was originally reported as tetragonal and highly disordered [Kim & Jeffrey (1970). J. Chem. Phys. 53, 3610–3615], appears to be described better as having an orthorhombic structure that is both disordered and twinned; the diffraction pattern at 90 K shows structured diffuse scattering that suggests short-range correlations of disordered molecules. The occurrence of this unusual set of structures is attributed to the combination of the hydrogen-bonding requirements of the pinacol molecule with its small size and limited conformational flexibility.
Amelogenin antigenic domain defined by clonal epitope selection.

To experimentally examine the participation of amelogenins in controlled mineral-phase maturation of mammalian enamel, the identification of the individual proteins and their corresponding gene(s) is required. For this purpose, cDNAs were constructed from polyadenylated RNA from 2-day postnatal murine teeth, molecularly cloned into lambda-gt11 expression vectors and transfected intoE. coli. The cDNA library was screened for amelogenin gene(s) by using either antibody or nucleic acid probes. An amelogenin cDNA clone encoding 79 carboxy-terminal amino acid residues and 100 nucleotides of the 3′ noncoding sequence was demonstrated to contain a major antigenic site for amelogenin protein by immunostaining of specific amelogenin proteins from total extracted enamel protein blots using clonal epitope selected antibody. This is the first report linking amelogenin epitope(s) to a defined DNA sequence, and consequently a defined portion of the amino acid sequence for amelogenins. Secondary structure analysis, based on the relative average linear hydropathy of the amino acid sequence of amelogenin, predicted epitopes in the amino terminus of the molecule rather than the carboxy terminus. Our present data suggest that the carboxy terminus of the amelogenins is sufficiently externalized to be an antigenic domain. These data may be useful in subsequent structural analysis of amelogenin proteins and enhancing our understanding of their physicochemical participation in biomineralization.
The Carbon Lone Pair as Electron Donor. Ionic Hydrogen Bonds in Isocyanides

Hydrogen bond dissociation energies (ΔH°D) in protonated dimer ions containing isocyanides were measured by pulsed high-pressure mass spectrometry, and the interactions were analyzed by ab initio calculations. Strong bonding (80−105 kJ/mol (19−25 kcal/mol)) is observed when the carbon lone pair is the electron donor, i.e. in the complexes of isocyanides with protonated amines and protonated isocyanides (R3NH+···CNR and RNCH+···CNR complexes). The bonding is weaker (60−90 kJ/mol (14−21 kcal/mol)) in the complexes of oxygen bases with protonated isocyanides, i.e. in RNCH+···O-type complexes. Inverse linear correlations between ΔH°D and the proton affinity difference of the components show slopes of −0.22 for R3NH+···CNR- and −0.25 for RNCH+···O-type complexes. The intercepts yield intrinsic bond strengths (ΔPA = 0) of 107.7 (25.7 kcal/mol) and 100.0 kJ/mol (23.9 kcal/mol), respectively. Geometry optimizations were carried out at four calculational levels, the largest of which is MP2/6-31+G(d,p). Single-poin...
Cytosolic NADH redox and thiol oxidation regulate pulmonary arterial force through ERK MAP kinase

An ERK MAP kinase-mediated contractile mechanism previously reported to be activated by peroxide and stretch in bovine coronary arteries is shown in this study to be present in endothelium-denuded ...
Managing at-Risk Juvenile Offenders in the Community: Putting Evidence Based Principles into Practice

More than a half-million juveniles are under community supervision as a result of violent or delinquent behavior. Research has shown that treatment can reduce their risk of reoffending. This articl...
Statistical models of a priori information for image processing: neighboring correlation constraints

A probabilistic formulation of statistical models of a priori source distribution information is presented in terms of global and local correlations of source element strengths. A Bayesian analysis considering both the a priori source distribution probabilistic models and the Poisson statistics of photon detection fluctuations is studied. The Bayesian solution determined by a system of equations that maximizes the a posteriori probability, given the measured data, is presented. A Bayesian image-processing algorithm that obtains the solution iteratively is derived by using an expectation-maximization technique. The iterative Bayesian algorithm is applied to computer-generated ideal data and to experimental phantom imaging data containing Poisson noise. Improvement in image processing with the Bayesian algorithm is demonstrated by comparing the processed images and the convergence performances of objective evaluation test functions obtained by using the Bayesian algorithm with those obtained by using the standard maximum-likelihood algorithm.
Follow-up of neuropsychological function recovery in a 9-year-old girl with anoxic encephalopathy: a window on the brain re-organization processes.

Objective. To investigate comprehensive neuropsychological outcome, disabilities in daily life and individual recovery processes in a case of anoxic encephalopathy.Design. A 9-year-old child's functional outcome after anoxic coma was evaluated in a follow-up study with assessments at 5, 9 and 12 months post-injury. A comprehensive neuropsychological protocol was administered. Qualitative methods of analysis and ecological observation were associated with standard and non-standard quantitative measures.Results. The child presented pervasive functional deficits with prevalence of gnosic, praxic and self-regulatory dysfunction. Dissociated functional recovery was documented in 12 months time. Improvement of self-regulatory abilities was likely a ‘propeller’ of global system re-organization.Conclusion. A descriptive longitudinal study of functional and ecological behavioural changes after anoxic coma provides insight into the re-adaptation processes in the brain connected to post-lesion ecological and trainin...
Nanometer-scale water-soluble macrocycles from nanometer-sized amino acids.

This paper introduces the unnatural amino acids m-Abc2K and o-Abc2K as nanometer-sized building blocks for the creation of water-soluble macrocycles with well-defined shapes. m-Abc2K and o-Abc2K are homologues of the nanometer-sized amino acid Abc2K, which we recently introduced for the synthesis of water-soluble molecular rods of precise length (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2007, 129, 7272). Abc2K is linear (180°), m-Abc2K creates a 120° angle, and o-Abc2K creates a 60° angle. m-Abc2K and o-Abc2K are derivatives of 3′-amino-(1,1′-biphenyl)-4-carboxylic acid and 2′-amino-(1,1′-biphenyl)-4-carboxylic acid, with two propyloxyammonium side chains for water solubility. m-Abc2K and o-Abc2K are prepared as Fmoc-protected derivatives Fmoc-m-Abc2K(Boc)-OH (1a) and Fmoc-o-Abc2K(Boc)-OH (1b). These derivatives can be used alone or in conjunction with Fmoc-Abc2K(Boc)-OH (1c) as ordinary amino acids in Fmoc-based solid-phase peptide synthesis. Building blocks 1a−c were used to synthesize macrocyclic “triangles” 9a−c, “parallelo...