cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Yeast glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase (Gfa1) requires methionine aminopeptidase activity for proper function.

Abstract Methionine aminopeptidase (MetAP) catalyzes the co-translational processing of initiator methionine from nascent proteins. A cellular requirement for MetAP activity is likely due to dysfunction of MetAP substrates that require methionine removal for proper protein function. Glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase (Gfa1) is an essential enzyme in yeast that catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step in hexosamine biosynthesis. The α-amino group of Gfa1 Cys-1 has been proposed to act as a nucleophile in the catalytic mechanism. We used two mutational strategies to evaluate whether removal of initiator methionine, catalyzed by MetAP, is required for Gfa1 function. Our results demonstrate that exposure of the α-amino group of Cys-1 is required for normal Gfa1 function as failure to do so results in decreased enzyme activity and slow growth. Further, either isoform of MetAP in yeast is sufficient for Gfa1 processing in vivo. These results are the first demonstration of an endogenous yeast protein that requires the exposure of the α-amino group by MetAP action for normal function. Additionally, Gfa1 will be a relevant target in therapeutic or physiological applications in which MetAP activity is inhibited.
Crystallization of various complexes in the trp repressor system

The control of L-tryptophan synthesis in E. coli is one of the model systems with which to study sequence-specific protein-DNA interactions and ligand induced allosteric transition. Well ordered crystals of the inactive, unliganded trp aporepressor have been obtained and compared with crystals of active, liganded repressor and inactive, liganded pseudorepressor. The structural difference between specific and nonspecific operator binding conformations of trp repressor seems to have small and local character without effecting the overall shape of the protein. Crystals of the repressor-operator complex have been grown which are suitable for high resolution X-ray analysis. Crystallization experiments do not support a consistent strategy for cocrystallization of protein-DNA complexes.
Ranking irregularities when evaluating alternatives by using some ELECTRE methods

The ELECTRE II and III methods enjoy a wide acceptance in solving multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems. Research results in this paper reveal that there are some compelling reasons to doubt the correctness of the proposed rankings when the ELECTRE II and III methods are used. In a typical test we first used these methods to determine the best alternative for a given MCDM problem. Next, we randomly replaced a non-optimal alternative by a worse one and repeated the calculations without changing any of the other data. Our computational tests revealed that sometimes the ELECTRE II and III methods might change the indication of the best alternative. We treat such phenomena as rank reversals. Although such ranking irregularities are well known for the additive variants of the AHP method, it is the very first time that they are reported to occur when the ELECTRE methods are used. These two methods are also evaluated in terms of two other ranking tests and they failed them as well. Two real-life cases are described to demonstrate the occurrence of rank reversals with the ELECTRE II and III methods. Based on the three test criteria presented in this paper, some computational experiments on randomly generated decision problems were executed to test the performance of the ELECTRE II and III methods and an examination of some real-life case studies are also discussed. The results of these examinations show that the rates of the three types of ranking irregularities were rather significant in both the simulated decision problems and the real-life cases studied in this paper.
EVALUATION OF LABOR REQUIREMENTS FOR BURLEY TOBACCO STALK-NOTCHING HARVESTERS

Stalk-notching harvesters initially received a lot of interest by growers because they were the only reasonably priced commercially available options that actually mechanized the harvest of burley tobacco. Field studies were conducted at four different farms—one with a MarCo harvester and the other three with Kirpy harvesters—observing harvesting and hanging operations. Harvesting labor productivity was fairly consistent for three of the four farms with similar wagon load sizes, and considerably higher at the fourth farm that had a much larger wagon load size. Harvesting labor requirements ranged from about 16 to 27 worker-hours (w-hr)/ha (6.7 to 11 w-hr/ac), compared with 64 w-hr/ha (26 w-hr/ac) for traditional stick harvesting of burley tobacco. Hanging labor requirements ranged from about 55 to 76 w-hr/ha (23 to 31 w-hr/ac), comparable with standard hanging labor requirements for hanging stick tobacco in multitiered traditional barns, but considerably higher than reported for hanging stick tobacco on s...
Influence of Quantifiable Extrinsic Stresses on Tin Whisker Growth

Implementation of Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directives regarding lead (Pb)-free electronics has resulted in the use of Pb-free and tin (Sn)-rich films as board finishes. These films pose serious reliability issues due to spontaneous Sn whisker growth formerly mitigated by the presence of Pb. Tangential compressive stress within thin films has long been cited as a principal cause of whisker growth, but there have been few direct stress measurements reported in the literature. In this study, we have manufactured two precision devices to impose eight known tangential (compressive and tensile) stress levels on Sn/Aluminum (Al) thin film/substrate systems. The results show that large numbers (∼ 103 /cm2 ) of Sn whiskers are present on films subjected to both compressive and tensile extrinsic stresses and the lowest whisker risk occurs in films near the zero stress condition.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Outpatient utilization by infants auto-assigned to Medicaid managed care plans.

To test the hypothesis that infants auto-assigned to a Medicaid managed care plan would have lower primary care and higher emergency department (ED) utilization compared to infants with a chosen plan. Retrospective cohort study. Medicaid administrative data were used to identify all children 0–3 months of age at enrollment in Michigan Medicaid managed care in 2005–2008 with 18-months of subsequent enrollment. Medicaid encounter and state immunization registry data were then acquired. Auto-assigned infants were compared versus chosen plan infants on: (1) well-child visits (WCVs); (2) immunizations; (3) acute office visits; and (4) ED visits. Chi squared and rank-sum tests and logistic and negative binomial regression were used in bivariate and multivariable analyses for dichotomous and count data, respectively. 18 % of infants were auto-assigned. Auto-assigned infants were less likely to meet goal number of WCVs in 18-months of managed care enrollment (32 vs. 53 %, p < 0.001) and to be up-to-date on immunizations at 12 months of age (75 vs. 85 %, p < 0.001). Auto-assigned infants had fewer acute office visits (median: 4 vs. 5, p < 0.001) but were only slightly more likely to have 2 or more ED visits (51 vs. 46 %, p < 0.001) in 18-months of enrollment. All results were significant in multivariable analyses. Auto-assigned infants were less likely to use preventive and acute primary care but only slightly more likely to use emergency care. Future work is needed to understand mechanisms of differences in utilization, but auto-assigned children may represent a target group for efforts to promote pediatric preventive care in Medicaid.
Localization of phosphatidylserine in isolated chick epiphyseal cartilage matrix vesicles with trinitrobenzenesulfonate

The localization of serine and ethanolamine phospholipids in isolated chick epiphyseal cartilage matrix vesicles was studied by time-course labeling with trinitrobenzenesulfonate (TNBS), a probe nonpermeant to most biological membranes. Significant amounts of all four of the primary amine-containing phospholipids in matrix vesicles reacted readily with TNBS, indicating that the vesicle membranes were unusually permeable to the label. We attribute this to the presence of large amounts of lysophospholipids present in the vesicle membranes. However, none of the lipids reacted with TNBS to completion. Plateau labeling values suggested that as much as 70 to 80% of the phosphatidylserine (PS) and 60 to 80% of the lysophosphatidylserine (LPS) are located inside the vesicles, and that 40 to 50% of the ethanolamine phospholipids are internal. The kinetic evidence further suggested that an additional 10 to 15% of these phospholipids are probably also internal. In the presence of chloroform-methanol, 1:1, which totally disrupts membrane structure, only 55 to 60% of the total PS and LPS reacted with TNBS, whereas all of the ethanolamine phospholipids did. We attribute this effect to the presence of PS-Ca-Pi complexes which inhibit the reaction of these lipids with TNBS under these conditions. Thus our findings add further evidence that binding of Ca by acidic phospholipids within the matrix vesicles may be involved in mineral deposition in epiphyseal cartilage.
Epitaxial Waveguiding KNbO3 Thin Films Grown By RF-Sputter Deposition

The physical and optical properties of KNbO3 layers grown on (001) oriented spinel and MgO substrates by planar rf-sputter deposition were studied. Rutherford Backscattering measurements showed that stoichiometric films could be obtained by using K2CO3 enriched targets and 100% argon as a sputtering gas. The x-ray diffraction spectra showed that single crystalline tetragonal films could be obtained at temperatures in the range of 580-610°C. Furthermore, channelling experiments indicated good crystal quality with a χmin of 40%. High resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy of the films revealed epitaxial growth, but also domains with a typical width of 10-20 nm. Moreover, it was possible to excite waveguide modes with losses of only 1.1 dB/cm at λ = 632.8 nm. The nonlinear optical coefficient d31 was determined by the Maker-fringe technique using the 1.06 μm Nd:YAG laser fundamental wavelength. This yielded a d31 value of 5 pm/V. The electro-optic properties was investigated by phase modulation technique in a Michelson interferometer.
Critical bands in the parakeet (Melopsittacus undulatus)

Critical bands (CBs) were measured in the parakeet by obtaining masked thresholds for a pure tone in the presence of noise bands of varying bandwidth. Six test frequencies were used and masked thresholds were estimated for between six and eight bands of noise at each. The CB was determined as the intersection of two regression lines fitted to the masked thresholds; one for those thresholds that were independent of masker bandwidth and the second for those thresholds which were dependent on masker bandwidth (Fig. 2). The critical band was similar to that reported in other species in that it was consistently greater than the critical ratio by about 2.5–3.0 times. The value of the CB at various test frequencies tends to increase at a rate of 3 dB per octave in many other species. In the parakeet however, the size of the CB is relatively constant between 0.25 and 4.0 kHz and then rapidly increases. The unusual shape of the critical band curve suggests that there may be a unique organization of the internal auditory filters that are associated with the CB in this species.
Selective Cytotoxicity of Rhodium Metalloinsertors in Mismatch Repair-Deficient Cells

Mismatches in DNA occur naturally during replication and as a result of endogenous DNA damaging agents, but the mismatch repair (MMR) pathway acts to correct mismatches before subsequent rounds of replication. Rhodium metalloinsertors bind to DNA mismatches with high affinity and specificity and represent a promising strategy to target mismatches in cells. Here we examine the biological fate of rhodium metalloinsertors bearing dipyridylamine ancillary ligands in cells deficient in MMR versus those that are MMR-proficient. These complexes are shown to exhibit accelerated cellular uptake which permits the observation of various cellular responses, including disruption of the cell cycle, monitored by flow cytometry assays, and induction of necrosis, monitored by dye exclusion and caspase inhibition assays, that occur preferentially in the MMR-deficient cell line. These cellular responses provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the selective activity of this novel class of targeted anticancer agents.
Birth intervals of Cercopithecus monkeys of the Kakamega Forest, Kenya

Data on interbirth intervals are reported for two forest-living guenons,Cercopithecus mitis andC. ascanius, from a western Kenyan site. Measured intervals for females whose first offspring survived varied from 24 to 54 months (median 47,N=10) forC. mitis, and from 49 to 60 months (median 52,N=3) forC. ascanius. Intervals were shorter when the first of two offspring died. These results are supported by data on estimated intervals, in which the date of the first of two births was estimated, and incomplete intervals. Our measurements exceed previous estimates of interbirth intervals in wild populations and measured intervals of captive animals. Compared to closely related species inhabiting unpredictable and seasonal environments, these forest guenons breed very slowly indeed.
Erratum to “The reproductive importance of P-type ATPases”

P-type ATPases are integral membrane proteins that use the free energy of ATP hydrolysis to generate transmembrane electrochemical ion gradients to support a variety of cellular processes. They have eight signature motifs, eight or ten transmembrane domains, highly conserved phosphorylation and ATP-binding sites, and similar hydropathic profiles. This review summarizes recent insights in the relationship of P-type ATPases to successful reproduction, and the hormone dependence of some family members. Because protein topology is central to understanding the pump action of this family of enzymes, this review also describes the dramatic change in the primary structure of one family member that may mediate transcription in the uterus. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Salts of p-Acetamidobenzoic Acid*

p -Acetamidobenzoic acid yields atmospherically stable salts with amines which have a tendency to give hygroscopic products with conventionally used acid components. The physical properties of p -acetamidobenzoic acid salts, combined with the innocuous nature and absorption characteristics of the acid, render the latter valuable as a salt-forming agent for pharmaceutical preparations. Procedures for the preparation of p -acetamidobenzoic acid salts are reported.
Gas-phase reactions of Tc+, Re+, Mo+ and Cu+ with alkenes

Organometallic complex ions, denoted as M+–L, where M=Tc, Re, Mo or Cu and L=CcHh, were produced by reacting laser-ablated M+ with alkenes (R=ethene, C2H4; propene, C3H6; cis-2-butene, C4H8; cyclohexene, C6H10 and 1,5-cyclooctadiene, C8H12). The compositions and abundances of the M+–L were determined by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A primary goal was to elucidate gas-phase organotechnetium chemistry and differentiate the behaviors of Re+ and Mo+from that of Tc+. The ion pairs, Tc++Re+and Tc++Mo+, were coablated to provide direct comparisons of reactivities; these M+ were ablated from solid MOx in a copper matrix, which generated Cu+, whose reactivity was also evaluated. For Tc+, Re+ and Mo+, H2-loss from the alkene was the primary reaction channel, and the M+–L yields and extent of multiple H2-loss (i.e. the reactivity) generally paralleled the size of R. Primary products were: M+C2H2 [R=C2H4]; M+C3H4 [R=C3H6]; M+C4H6 and M+C4H4 [R=C4H8]; M+C6H6 and M+{C6H6}2 [R=C6H10] and M+C8H8 and M+C8H6 [R=C8H12]. For cycloalkenes, CC bond cleavage also occurred, e.g. M++C8H12→M+C6H6+C2H6. The reactivity of Re+ was moderately greater than that of Tc+; thus for R=C6H10, the yield of Tc+C6H6 and Re+C6H6 were comparable but Tc+C6H4 was minor relative to Re+C6H4. Less coherent distinctions were observed between Tc+ and Mo+, although Tc+ was apparently slightly more reactive. Where ablated Mo+ were adequately abundant to measure Mo+L products, a greater reactivity, compared with naked M+, was indicated; for R=C6H10 the product yields were: Tc+C6H6/Tc+≈5% and TcO+C6H6/TcO+≈40%. The especially facile reaction, Tc2++C4H8→Tc2+C4Hh+[(8−h)/2]H2 (h=6 or 4), indicated greater reactivity for Tc2+ compared with Tc+. ‘Closed-shell’ (d10s0) Cu+ was relatively inert, generally producing primarily the adduct, Cu+R (condensation was insignificant for other M+). However, Cu+ distinctively produced abundant Cu+C4H6 (butadiene) from C6H10 and C8H12. The observed gas-phase organometallic chemistries of Cu+ and Mo+ are consistent with previous results by other techniques and with other organic substrates, and the reactivities of Tc+ and Re+ are in accord with general predictions.
Patterned mist deposition of tri-colour CdSe/ZnS quantum dot films toward RGB LED devices

In this experiment a technique of mist deposition was explored as a way to form patterned ultra-thin-films of CdSe/ZnS core/shell nanocrystalline quantum dots using colloidal solutions. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of mist deposition as a patterning method for creating multicolour quantum dot light emitting diodes. Mist deposition was used to create three rows of quantum dot light emitting diodes on a single device with each row having a separate colour. The colours chosen were red, green and yellow with corresponding peak wavelengths of 620 nm, 558 nm, and 587 nm. The results obtained from this experiment show that it is possible to create multicolour devices on a single substrate. The peak brightnesses obtained in this experiment for the red, green, and yellow were 508 cd/m, 507 cd/m, and 665 cd/m, respectively. The similar LED brightness is important in display technologies using colloidal quantum dots in a precursor solution to ensure one colour does not dominate the emitted spectrum. Results obtained in-terms of brightness were superior to those achieved with inkjet deposition. This study has shown that mist deposition is a viable method for patterned deposition applied to quantum dot light emitting diode display technologies.
POSSIBLE CHEMICAL MECHANISMS FOR BORON HYDRIDE ACCELERATION OF NITRAMINE DECOMPOSITION : LITERATURE REVIEW

This paper is a summary of observations and possible chemical mechanisms for the acceleration of the thermal decomposition of nitramines octahydro-l,3,5,7-tetranitro-l,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) and hexahydro-l,3,5-trinitro-l,3,5-triazine (RDX), and of propellants derived from them, by salts containing the anions B10H70 and B12H72. Available literature on the thermal behavior of salts containing these anions are reviewed as well as available information on the effects of these salts on the decomposition and combustion of HMX and RDX. The emphasis is on thermal decomposition and salts with alkali metal cations. The pure salts appear stable under vacuum or inert gas to ~700-800°C, but there are reports of H 2 evolution at about 620-650°C. In the presence of air, thermo-oxidative degradation at somewhat lower temperatures (~300-600°C, depending on the nature of the salt) is observed. When the salts are heated together with RDX, considerable enhancement of the decomposition rate of RDX is observed; this begins at the melting temperature of pure RDX and becomes intense, leading to a lower, much sharper decomposition exotherm. These observations seem consistent with an acceleration mechanism involving attack on the nitramine by the B-H hydrogens of the boron hydride salt, but it is difficult to evaluate the role of other processes or the reaction of the accelerant with products, particularly nitrogen oxides.
What information do parents of newborns with cleft lip, palate, or both want to know?

Abstract Background: The unexpected birth of a baby with a cleft lip and palate (CL/P) is a shocking and traumatic experience, generating anxiety for parents as well as the attendant health care team. Parents frequently leave the hospital with many unanswered questions because health care professionals do not educate them adequately. Objective: To determine what information these parents felt was “critical” for them during the immediate newborn period and to determine how the “informer” was perceived during these encounters. Design: Retrospective, self-administered questionnaire. Subjects and Methods: Biologic parents of children with isolated CL/P aged 6 years and younger were surveyed. The questionnaire asked parents whether they remembered discussing diagnosis, prognosis, management, home care, and psychosocial issues. Parents were also asked to rank how “critical” it would have been for the “informer” to have discussed certain issues with them during this first day. Results: Parents gave the highest p...
Computer Models Employed in University Administration: The Stanford Experience

Management science techniques have only lately come to be applied to university planning. This paper describes the use of models to assist in long-range planning at Stanford University. The three areas of application discussed are: 1 faculty tenure analysis; 2 long-range financial planning; and 3 trade-off analysis involving important budget variables. The factors that seem to have contributed to successful implementation also are noted.
Heterogeneity of 125I-labeled epidermal growth factor.

Abstract Highly purified epidermal growth factor (EGF) was iodinated, and the labeled product with the same isoelectric point as underivatized EGF was isolated by isoelectric focusing. When the 125 I-labeled EGF was analyzed by reverse-phase chromatography, the resulting profile of 125 I activity was much broader than the profile obtained with underivatized EGF. Rechromatography of 125 I-EGF fractions indicated that our highly-purified labelled EGF was indeed heterogenous. Analysis of each HPLC column fraction demonstrated that degradation of EGF had not occurred. The column fractions containing 125 I-EGF were pooled into five groups for analysis of cell binding characteristics. Scatchard plot analysis of the five 125 I-EGF pools revealed markedly different binding behaviors. In contrast, they had equal potency in stimulating DNA synthesis, within the sensitivity of our assay. Specific activity measurements indicated that the five HPLC pools of 125 I-EGF had varying numbers of 125 I atoms per EGF molecule. The heterogeneity of the highly purified 125 I-EGF and the binding characteristics of the 125 I-EGF subfractions pose serious implications for all workers who use iodinated ligands for receptor binding studies.
Effects of ethanol and partial reinforcement upon runway acquisition

When injected with a placebo, 50% reward resulted in faster running speeds at the end of training than 100%. No differences were found between 50 and 100% reinforcement for Ss given ethanol. Running speeds in both placebo and alcohol groups dropped when the Ss were shifted to the opposite drug. The data were interpreted as support for the Amsel-Spence frustration hypothesis.
Photochemical Synthesis of Condensed Phosphates

IN the course of unsuccessful attempts to use metanitrophenylphosphate as a photochemical phosphorylating agent1, we noted the appearance of pyrophosphate in a number of our control tubes. Further experiments have shown that ultra-violet irradiation of solutions of phosphoric acid or tetrabutylammonium dihydrogen phosphate in certain pyridine derivatives or in aliphatic ketones leads to the formation of condensed phosphates. In this communication we describe our semi-quantitative observations on these systems. We examined 0.01–0.05 M solutions of phosphate in the following solvents: pyridine, 2-, 3-, and 4-picoline, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, pyruvic acid, acetylacetone, benzaldehyde, acetophenone, anisole, n-butyraldehyde and propionaldehyde. Only in those listed in Table 1 were we able to detect pyrophosphate. (The sensitivity of our method was ≈0.5 per cent conversion.) Irradiations were carried out in a RPR-100 ‘Rayonet’ photochemical chamber using RPR-2537 A lamps for the ketone solution and RPR-3500 A lamps for the pyridine solutions. The solutions were contained in quartz tubes 10 mm in diameter. The temperature of the solutions was 45° ± 5° C.
Twentieth‐century climate change in New England and New York, USA

[1] We have analyzed twentieth-century temperature data from 73 climate stations in New England and New York. Linear regression gives a 100-year temperature change (ΔT100) for each station. All but two stations show an increase over this time, giving a regional area-weighted average ΔT100 of 1.11°C. Average ΔT100 values for each state are all positive, ranging from 0.86°C to 1.86°C. Spatial autocorrelation analysis reveals a southeastern New England cluster of stations with relatively large ΔT100, and a cluster in western New York with low but still positive ΔT100. Thus, at differing spatial scales, temperature in this region increased during the twentieth century, in most cases by more than the global average increase of some 0.6°C during this same period. Our results contrast markedly with the New England Regional Assessment, and may have implications for other regional assessments undertaken under the auspices of the U.S. Global Change Research Program.
Leveraging Resist Chemistry Research for Water Purification Membrane Technology

This paper gives examples of the connection of new research on water purificiation membranes to earlier research on resist chemistry. Two new membrane materials are reported here. The first is a reverse osmosis desalination membrane material based on a new hexafluoro alcohol-modified aromatic polyamide. This polymer is made in a reactive casting operation using interfacial polycondensation. The membrane has intriguing performance with pH-dependent properties. The second membrane presented here is designed to have fouling resistance. We found through the course of this work that the material had intrinsic nanofiltration properties and data is presented that supports this finding. Research experiences in high performance functional materials can accelerate new efforts in other areas of technology, in this case sustainability.
Sol-gel double-layer antireflection coatings for silicon solar cells

Abstract Double-layer thin films of SiO2 and TiO2, applied using the sol-gel process, were utilized as antireflection coatings on silicon solar cells. When coated with these films, the efficiency of a solar cell was increased by 44%, which agrees well with the measured increase in cell solar absorbance of 47%. Modeling of the reflectance properties of the coated cells, using thickness and index of refraction values determined from ellipsometric measurements, was in excellent agreement with the spectral reflectance properties measured from 300 to 1100 nm. Transmission electron microscopy on sectioned samples revealed sharp interfaces between the sol-gel films and thicknesses in good agreement with the ellipsometric values.
Disruption of 12/15-Lipoxygenase Expression in Peritoneal Macrophages ENHANCED UTILIZATION OF THE 5-LIPOXYGENASE PATHWAY AND DIMINISHED OXIDATION OF LOW DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN

Abstract Previously, we isolated the murine “leukocyte-type” 12-lipoxygenase (L-12LO) cDNA from RNA of peritoneal-elicited cells that consisted predominantly of leukocytes (Chen, X.-S., Kurre, U., Jenkins, N. A., Copeland, N. G., and Funk, C. D. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 13979-13987). By in situ hybridization we show that the L-12LO gene is expressed abundantly in a subset of peritoneal macrophages but not in elicited leukocytes, alveolar macrophages, or bone marrow-derived macrophages. L-12LO is highly related to human and rabbit 15-lipoxygenases, enzymes that have been implicated in the maturation process of red blood cells, and the oxidative modification of low density lipoproteins that is implicated in atherogenesis. Accordingly, these enzymes have been referred to as 12/15-lipoxygenases. We have inactivated the L-12LO gene in mice using homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. Macrophage expression of L-12LO was abolished in homozygous deficient mice as was formation of 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE). In zymosan-stimulated cells, there was significant diversion of metabolism to the 5-lipoxygenase products leukotriene C4 and 5-HETE and in A23187-treated cells to 5-HETE only. The enhanced formation of 5-lipoxygenase metabolites was not due to compensatory changes of 5-lipoxygenase or 5-lipoxygenase activating protein but rather an apparent substrate diversion. L-12LO-deficient mice have no obvious abnormalities in reticulocyte or mature red blood cells, which suggest that in mice this pathway is not functionally important for erythrocytic development. Indices for oxidation of low density lipoprotein (measured as either thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances or the oxidant stress marker isoprostane 8-epi-prostaglandin F2α) were identical in incubations with unstimulated wild-type and L-12LO-deficient macrophages, but the zymosan-induced increase observed with wild-type macrophages was abolished in L-12LO-deficient cells. Thus, 12/15-lipoxygenase-deficient mice will be useful for the study of interaction between lipoxygenase pathways and determination of the in vivo role of 12/15-lipoxygenase-catalyzed oxidation of LDL in atherogenesis.
CD34+ Cells in the Peripheral Blood Transport Herpes Simplex Virus DNA Fragments to the Skin of Patients with Erythema Multiforme (HAEM)

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)-associated erythema multiforme (HAEM) is a recurrent disease characterized by the presence and expression of HSV DNA fragments in lesional skin. Our studies examined the mechanism of viral DNA transport to the skin of HAEM patients. CD34+ cells were isolated from the blood of normal subjects and HSV and HAEM patients during acute lesions and at quiescence. They were cultured with cytokines that favor their differentiation into Langerhans cells (LC) precursors (CD1a+/CD14-) and examined for HSV replication, HSV-induced cellular alterations, viral DNA fragmentation, and clearance. CD34+ cells from all study groups were non-permissive for HSV replication but infection favored their differentiation into CD1a+/CD14- LC precursors and upregulated E-cadherin expression, thereby assisting LC targeting to the skin. Only HAEM patients had CD34+ cells that retained viral DNA fragments, notably polymerase DNA, for at least 7 d of in vitro culture. The percentages of circulating CD34+ (and CD34+/CLA+) cells were significantly higher in HAEM patients at the time of acute lesions. A similar increase was not seen for HSV patients. The data are the first report implicating CD34+ cells in HAEM pathogenesis, likely by transporting HSV DNA fragments to lesional skin.
Maximal diversity algebraic space-time codes with low peak-to-mean power ratio

The design requirements for space-time coding typically involves achieving the goals of good performance, high rates, and low decoding complexity. In this paper, we introduce a further constraint on space-time code design in that the code should also lead to low values of the peak-to-mean envelope power ratio (PMEPR) for each antenna. Towards that end, we propose a new class of space-time codes called the "low PMEPR space-time" (LPST) codes. The LPST codes are obtained using the properties of certain cyclotomic number fields. The LPST codes achieve a performance identical to that of the threaded algebraic space-time (TAST) codes but at a much smaller PMEPR. With M antennas and a rate of one symbol per channel use, the LPST codes lead to a decrease in PMEPR by at least a factor of M relative to a Hadamard spread version of the TAST code. For rates beyond one symbol per channel use and up to a guaranteed amount, the LPST codes have provably smaller PMEPR than the corresponding TAST codes. Additionally, with the concept of punctured LPST codes proposed in this paper, significant performance improvement is obtained over the full diversity TAST schemes of comparable complexity. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the advantage of the proposed codes in terms of PMEPR reduction and performance improvement for very high rate wireless communications.
Acculturation and Perceived Intergenerational Differences among Hmong Youth

This study examined the relationship between level of acculturation and perceived intergenerational differences for 29 high school students from Hmong refugee families. Students perceived themselves to be more acculturated than their parents. Higher acculturation was associated with higher perceived intergenerational differences. This association depended on the number of years students had spent in U.S. schools. Greater acculturation of traditional behavior, family relationships, and decision making was also associated with increasing perceived intergenerational differences.
Pancreatic islet isolation after gastric bypass in a rat model: technique and initial results for a promising research tool.

Abstract Background Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) affords a high remission rate of type 2 diabetes mellitus among morbidly obese diabetic patients. We report the use of the isolated islet technique to assess pancreatic function and glucoregulatory mechanisms after RYGB surgery. Methods A total of 15 adult, male, Sprague Dawley diet-induced obese rats were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups: sham, RYGB, and pair-fed, with 5 rats in each group. The body weight was measured at baseline and every week for 4 weeks. Pancreatic islet function was assessed in vitro according to the amount of insulin secreted from isolated islets incubated in 2 mM and 20 mM glucose for 1 hour at 37°C. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1, PYY3-36, and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide were measured at baseline and 28 days after surgery. Results The baseline body weight was 917 ± 61, 831 ± 42, and 927 ± 43 g for the sham, RYGB, and pair-fed groups, respectively. The RYGB group lost 32% body weight compared with 16% for the sham and 24% for the pair-fed groups. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from the isolated islets in the RYGB group was greater than in the comparison groups ( P = .04) at 4 weeks after surgery. Fasting plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 and PYY3-36 were significantly increased at 4 weeks in the RYGB group. Conclusion Islet isolation and stimulation in the present animal model was feasible, affords a direct measurement of pancreatic islet function, and might provide a useful tool to study the effects of RYGB on pancreatic function and the relationship between islet cell function and incretin production after bariatric surgery.
Project teams for international communication: Planning collaborations

This workshop builds upon conversations begun at IPCC 2009 to establish ways to foster international collaboration among academics and professional communicators, with the goal of strengthening academic focus on global communication. Participants are urged to come to the workshop with some specific ideas about an assignment, an exchange, or a communication product. The workshop provides an opportunity to get to know and work with international colleagues to develop plans for specific collaborative team projects involving faculty and/or students and professionals from two or more countries. Project teams are encouraged to submit proposals to share results and best practices at IPCC 2011.
Biodegradable Polysilsesquioxane Nanoparticles as Efficient Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Polysilsesquioxane (PSQ) nanoparticles are crosslinked homopolymers formed by condensation of functionalized trialkoxysilanes, and provide an interesting platform for developing biologically and biomedically relevant nanomaterials. In this work, the design and synthesis of biodegradable PSQ particles with extremely high payloads of paramagnetic Gd(III) centers is explored, for use as efficient contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Two new bis(trialkoxysilyl) derivatives of Gd(III) diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (Gd-DTPA) containing disulfide linkages are synthesized and used to form biodegradable Gd-PSQ particles by base-catalyzed condensation reactions in reverse microemulsions. The Gd-PSQ particles, PSQ-1 and PSQ-2, carry 53.8 wt% and 49.3 wt% of Gd-DTPA derivatives, respectively. In addition, the surface carboxy groups on the PSQ-2 particles can be modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and the anisamide (AA) ligand to enhance biocompatibility and cell uptake, respectively. The Gd-PSQ particles are readily degradable to release the constituent Gd(III) chelates in the presence of endogenous reducing agents such as cysteine and glutathione. The MR relaxivities of the Gd-PSQ particles are determined using a 3T MR scanner, with r1 values ranging from 5.9 to 17.8 mMs−1 on a per-Gd basis. Finally, the high sensitivity of the Gd-PSQ particles as T1-weighted MR contrast agents is demonstrated with in vitro MR imaging of human lung and pancreatic cancer cells. The enhanced efficiency of the anisamide-functionalized PSQ-2 particles as a contrast agent is corroborated by both confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging and ICP-MS analysis of Gd content in vitro.
Calcium enhances binding of Aβ monomer to DMPC lipid bilayer.

Using isobaric-isothermal replica-exchange molecular dynamics and the all-atom explicit-solvent model, we studied the equilibrium binding of Aβ monomers to a zwitterionic dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) bilayer coincubated with calcium ions. Using our previous replica-exchange molecular dynamics calcium-free simulations as a control, we reached three conclusions. First, calcium ions change the tertiary structure of the bound Aβ monomer by destabilizing several long-range intrapeptide interactions, particularly the salt bridge Asp23-Lys28. Second, calcium strengthens Aβ peptide binding to the DMPC bilayer by enhancing electrostatic interactions between charged amino acids and lipid polar headgroups. As a result, Aβ monomer penetrates deeper into the bilayer, making disorder in proximal lipids and bilayer thinning more pronounced. Third, because calcium ions demonstrate strong affinity to negatively charged amino acids, a considerable influx of calcium into the area proximal to the bound Aβ monomer is observed. Consequently, the localizations of negatively charged amino acids and calcium ions in the Aβ binding footprint overlap. Based on our data, we propose a mechanism by which calcium ions strengthen Aβ-bilayer interactions. This mechanism involves two factors: 1) calcium ions make the DMPC bilayer partially cationic and thus attractive to the anionic Aβ peptide; and 2) destabilization of the Asp23-Lys28 salt bridge makes Lys28 available for interactions with the bilayer. Finally, we conclude that a single Aβ monomer does not promote permeation of calcium ions through the zwitterionic bilayer.
Study of copper-refractory metal interfaces via solid-state wetting for emerging nanoscale interconnect applications

Solid-state wetting experiments were carried out to derive the work of adhesion (adhesion energy) of pertinent Cu/liner interfaces via the Young–Dupre equation using contact-angle measurements of the Cu equilibrium crystal shape on Ta and TaNx liners. Four types of liner surfaces were examined: untreated sputtered Ta (uSp-Ta), untreated sputtered TaNx (uSp-TaN), untreated atomic layer deposited (ALD) TaNx (uALD-TaN), and indium surfactant-treated ALD TaNx (tALD-TaN). All Cu-liner stacks were subsequently annealed at 600 °C for 48 h in a forming gas (95% Ar/5% H2) ambient. For Cu/uSp-Ta, the work of adhesion was found to be 2170 mJ/m2, corresponding to an average contact angle of 74°, while for Cu/uSp-TaN, the work of adhesion amounted to 1850 mJ/m2 for an average contact angle of 85°. Alternatively, the work of adhesion for Cu/uALD-TaN was determined to be 1850 mJ/m2, corresponding to an average contact angle of 85°, while for Cu/tALD-TaN, the work of adhesion was 2280 mJ/m2, at an average contact angle of 70°. These findings indicate that the highest degree of surface wetting occurs for the indium surfactant-treated ALD TaNx. It is thus suggested that surfactant treatment causes a reduction in the energy barrier to Cu nucleation, resulting in an enhancement in Cu wetting characteristics and a more uniform concentration of Cu nucleation sites. A critical potential outcome is the formation of atomically smooth Cu-liner interfaces with enhanced adhesion characteristics.
Gas-solid chromatography of methane-helium mixtures: moment analysis of breakthrough curves

A moment analysis method is suggested for calculating parameters of a breakthrough curve generated from a step change of concentration of an adsorbate. The longitudinal diffusion coefficient and the solid-phase diffusion coefficient are determined from the calculated moment. A criterion is given for assessing the relative importance of the longitudinal diffusion coefficient and the solid-phase diffusion coefficient. This criterion also serves as a guide for choosing experimental parameters to determine the solid-phase diffusion coefficients.
interferon regulatory factor-1 mediates the proapoptotic but not cell cycle arrest effects of the steroidal antiestrogen ICI 182,780 (faslodex, fulvestrant).

Antiestrogens induce both cytostasis (cell cycle arrest) and apoptosis, but the relationship between these end points and the signaling that regulates their induction are unclear. We have previously implicated the transcription factor and putative tumor suppressor IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) in acquired antiestrogen resistance (Gu et al., Cancer Res, 62: 3428–3437, 2002). We now show the functional significance of IRF-1 in affecting antiestrogen responsiveness in estrogen receptor-positive antiestrogen-sensitive models (MCF-7, T47D, and ZR-75-1), a model of acquired antiestrogen resistance (MCF7/LCC9; estrogen receptor positive), and a model of de novo antiestrogen resistance (MDA-MB-231; estrogen receptor negative). Basal IRF-1 mRNA expression is lower in MCF7/LCC9 cells when compared with MCF-7, T47D, and ZR-75-1 cells. IRF-1 transcriptional activity in MCF-7/LCC9 cells is 18-fold lower than that seen in the parental cells (MCF-7/LCC1) and is comparable with that in MDA-MB-231 cells. Although IRF-1 mRNA expression is induced by ICI 182,780 in sensitive cells, this regulation is lost in MCF-7/LCC9 and is absent in MDA-MB-231 cells. Loss of IRF-1 regulation appears specific to antiestrogen resistance—resistant cells induce IRF-1 mRNA in response to the cytotoxic drug doxorubicin. A dominant-negative IRF-1 eliminates the ICI 182,780-induced apoptotic response (reduced >4-fold) and reduces MCF-7 and T47D cell sensitivity to the antiproliferative effects of ICI 182,780. This effect is not mediated by changes in cell cycle distribution; rather, dominant-negative IRF-1 reduces ICI 182,780-induced apoptosis. These data identify a novel mechanism of antiestrogen resistance and implicate IRF-1 as a key component in signaling some ER-mediated effects on apoptosis/cell survival.
EFFECT OF Zr, B AND C ADDITIONS ON THE DUCTILITY OF MOLYBDENUM

Abstract Through the addition of Zr, Al, C and B at the parts per million level to molybdenum, a significant improvement in ductility of a molybdenum weldment has been produced. This improvement approaches 20% ductility in gas–tungsten arc weldments in 4.8-mm-thick plate compared to the traditional 3% ductility. This improvement has been achieved by improving the normally low fracture stress of grain boundaries. Atom probe tomography revealed segregation of zirconium, boron and carbon and the depletion of oxygen and nitrogen at the grain boundaries in the base metal.
Large core polymer optical backplanes for fluorescence detection

Multimode polymer waveguides and out-of-plane bends are fabricated to create a waveguide sensor array capable of excitation and detection of fluorescence based sensors.
Politics of Decolonization: Kenya Europeans and the Land Issue 1960-1965

Decolonization in the Third World has most often been approached by tracing the ties of nationalist movements to the attainment of independence. This book attempts to revise the perspective. It presents a model of decolonization centring on the idea that the process was shaped by the reaction of colonial interests to the ascendancy of a nationalist elite. Rather than tracing the upward development of a nationalist movement, it traces the downward manipulation of that movement into a colonial system. The study concludes that instead of being a separating step to remove colonial influence, decolonization in more important respects ensured the continuity of the colonial political economy. The book is of interest to scholars, students and others interested in decolonization, white settles, East African affairs and land reform, as well as the general reader following current events in Africa.
Scripted documents: a hypermedia path mechanism

The concept of a path, or ordered traversal of some links in a hypertext, has been a part of the hypertext notion from its early formation. Although paths can help to solve two major problems with hypertext systems, namely user disorientation and high cognitive overhead for users, their value has not been recognized. Paths can also provide the backbone for computations over a hypertext, an important issue for the future of hypertext. This paper constructs a framework for understanding path mechanisms for hypertext and explores the basic issues surrounding them. Given this framework, it reviews path mechanisms that have been provided by other hypertext systems. Finally, it describes the Scripted Documents system, which has been developed to test the potential of one powerful path mechanism.
Effects of planting spacing and site quality on 25-year growth and mortality relationships of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii)

Abstract Growth and mortality of coast Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii) were studied for 25 years after planting seedlings at 1–6-m spacings on a site of moderate quality in the western Cascade Mountains of Washington. Responses were compared to those from two other studies representing high and low site qualities. Third-year height did not differ among spacings (P = 0.80), providing no evidence that close spacing stimulated early growth. Piecewise regression identified the onset of competition-induced mortality when stand density index (SDI [Reineke, L.H. 1933. Perfecting a stand density index for even-aged forests. Journal of Agricultural Research 46, 627–638]) exceeded 52% (S.E. = 4.6) of the species’ maximum or when average crown ratio (CR) declined below 52% (S.E. = 0.9). For a range of SDI values, CR averaged 2–7% points greater at the high-quality site than at the moderate-quality site. In a regression analysis of combined data from the moderate- and high-quality sites, relative values of average stem diameter and stand volume (% of maximum values observed per site) 23–25 years after planting increased and decreased with planting spacing, respectively (R2 = 0.97 and 0.91, respectively). Intersection of these relationships at 3-m spacing indicated a point of equivalent relative development of tree size and stand yield. For a range of site qualities, stands planted at 3-m spacing: (1) maintained tree vigor (CR ≥ 50%) and stability (average height:dbh ratio
On the inactivation of bacteria by singlet oxygen — another view

Abstract Midden and Dahl, in a recent paper [1], have presented important data on the inactivation of bacteria by singlet oxygen. In analyzing the data, use was made of a theory published earlier by the present author [4]. The purpose of this paper is to point out that theory and experiment can be brought into better agreement by assuming that the interaction of singlet oxygen with the bacteria takes place in an essentially lipid environment rather than aqeous.