cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interdomain Signaling in Glutamine Phosphoribosylpyrophosphate Amidotransferase

The glutamine phosphoribosylpyrophosphate (PRPP) amidotransferase-catalyzed synthesis of phosphoribosylamine from PRPP and glutamine is the sum of two half-reactions at separated catalytic sites in different domains. Binding of PRPP to a C-terminal phosphoribosyltransferase domain is required to activate the reaction at the N-terminal glutaminase domain. Interdomain signaling was monitored by intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence and by measurements of glutamine binding and glutamine site catalysis. Enzymes were engineered to contain a single tryptophan fluorescence reporter in key positions in the glutaminase domain. Trp83 in the glutamine loop (residues 73–84) and Trp482 in the C-terminal helix (residues 471–492) reported fluorescence changes in the glutaminase domain upon binding of PRPP and glutamine. The fluorescence changes were perturbed by Ile335 and Tyr74 mutations that disrupt interdomain signaling. Fluoresence titrations of PRPP and glutamine binding indicated that signaling defects increased theK d for glutamine but had little or no effect on PRPP binding. It was concluded that the contact between Ile335 in the phosphoribosyltransferase domain and Tyr74 in the glutamine site is a primary molecular interaction for interdomain signaling. Analysis of enzymes with mutations in the glutaminase domain C-terminal helix and a 404–420 peptide point to additional signaling interactions that activate the glutamine site when PRPP binds.
Assessing the vulnerability of replicated network services

Client-server networks are pervasive, fundamental, and include such key networks as the Internet, power grids, and road networks. In a client-server network, clients obtain a service by connecting to one of a redundant set of servers. These networks are vulnerable to node and link failures, causing some clients to become disconnected from the servers. We develop algorithms that quantify and bound the inherent vulnerability of a clientserver network using semidefinite programming (SDP) and branch-and-cut techniques. Further, we develop a divide-and-conquer algorithm that solves the problem for large graphs. We use these techniques to show that: for the Philippine Power Grid removing just over 6% of the transmission lines will disconnect at least 20% but not more than 50% of the substations from all generators; on a large wireless mesh network disrupting 5% of wireless links between relays removes Internet access for half the relays; even after any 16% of Tier 2 ASes are removed, more than 50% of the remaining Tier 2 ASes will be connected to the Tier 1 backbone; when 300 roadblocks are erected in Michigan, it's possible to disconnect 28--43% of the population from all airports.
Influence of hypoxia and reoxygenation on cytokine-induced production of proinflammatory mediators in articular cartilage

Objective Articular cartilage is an avascular tissue that functions at a lower oxygen tension than do most tissues. With mobilization, arthritic joints may undergo cycles of hypoxia and reoxygenation. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of hypoxia and reoxygenation on cytokine-induced nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in articular cartilage. Methods Porcine cartilage explants were incubated at 37°C for 72 hours in either 1% O2 (hypoxia) or 20% O2 (normoxia) in media supplemented with interleukin-1α (IL-1α) or tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), with or without the NO synthase 2 (NOS2) selective inhibitor 1400W. Culture media were then removed and replaced with freshly prepared media and incubated for a further 24 hours in normoxia. Results NO levels were significantly higher in explants supplemented with IL-1α and TNFα compared with controls, in both hypoxia and normoxia. Compared with normoxia, hypoxia decreased IL-1α– and TNFα-induced NO production significantly. Reoxygenation of hypoxic explants resulted in sustained significant NO production in response to either cytokine. However, comparably high levels of NO production were not sustained in explants cultured continuously in normoxia. Although IL-1α alone did not significantly increase PGE2 production, significant PGE2 superinduction occurred in cartilage stimulated with IL-1α and the NOS2 inhibitor 1400W compared with stimulation with IL-1α alone in hypoxia, but not in normoxia. Conclusion Oxygen tension significantly affects cytokine-induced proinflammatory mediator production in articular cartilage. Furthermore, hypoxia alters NO mediation of PGE2 production. Hypoxia and reoxygenation can affect cytokine-induced proinflammatory mediator production, suggesting that oxygen tension may influence inflammation associated with cartilage injury and disease.
Transferrin-a modulates hepcidin expression in zebrafish embryos.

The iron regulatory hormone hepcidin is transcriptionally up-regulated in response to iron loading, but the mechanisms by which iron levels are sensed are not well understood. Large-scale genetic screens in the zebrafish have resulted in the identification of hypochromic anemia mutants with a range of mutations affecting conserved pathways in iron metabolism and heme synthesis. We hypothesized that transferrin plays a critical role both in iron transport and in regulating hepcidin expression in zebrafish embryos. Here we report the identification and characterization of the zebrafish hypochromic anemia mutant, gavi, which exhibits transferrin deficiency due to mutations in transferrin-a. Morpholino knockdown of transferrin-a in wild-type embryos reproduced the anemia phenotype and decreased somite and terminal gut iron staining, while coinjection of transferrin-a cRNA partially restored these defects. Embryos with transferrin-a or transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2) deficiency exhibited low levels of hepcidin expression, however anemia, in the absence of a defect in the transferrin pathway, failed to impair hepcidin expression. These data indicate that transferrin-a transports iron and that hepcidin expression is regulated by a transferrin-a–dependent pathway in the zebrafish embryo.
Pressure broadening coefficients of 14N16ON2 gas mixtures

Abstract Pressure broadening coefficients were determined for gaseous 14N16ON2 mixtures at 223, 248, and 294 K using very high-resolution infrared spectroscopy. Particular attention was given to R-branch vibration-rotation transitions of the Δv = 1 ← 0 band of NO for J″ = 7 2 to J″ = 19 2 which absorb infrared radiation in the spectral range from 1890.71 to 1909.78 cm−1. Absolute linestrengths of pure 14N16O were measured at 294 K for most of the R-branch transitions from J″ = 1 2 to J″ = 19 2 and a vibrational band intensity of Sν = 117 ± 3 cm−2 atm−1 at 273 K was calculated. Gas temperatures and pressures used in this study were chosen to simulate conditions of the Earth's stratosphere, where NO is one of the gases known to be present in trace amounts.
The organization of the periodontal membrane fibres of the developing molars of rats.

Abstract Rats, 15–35 days old, were used to study the formation and organization of the periodontal membrane fibres of the molar teeth. Celloidin sections were prepared and stained by differential stains for connective tissue fibres. In the early development of the periodontal membrane there is a definite oblique orientation of the fibroblasts towards the gingival region. At the same time fine collagenous fibres are observed arising from the cementum and running parallel to the cells. These fibres appear to be entrapped by the forming alveolar bone. As the root continues in development, the fibroblasts as well as the fibres maintain this fundamental relationship. As the tooth erupts into the oral cavity and enters clinical occlusion with its opposing tooth the attachment fibres become organized into the functional six groups as usually described. It appears that the stresses of functional occlusion cause a thickening of the fibres.
Monoclonal antibodies that distinguish between free and complexed heterotrimeric G protein β subunits

Heterotrimeric G proteins were purified from bovine brain by immunoaffinity chromatography on immobilized anti G protein monoclonal antibody 3C2. Release of βγ subunits was effectuated by exposure of immobilized trimeric G proteins to MgAlF4. The resultant βγ subunits were pure and biologically active. Following immunization of mice with purified βγ subunits we obtained monoclonal anti β antibodies showing broad species cross-reactivity. Characterization of the epitope recognized by one such monoclonal antibody, ARC9, indicated involvement of the extreme COOH-terminus, as assessed by its reactivity on β subunits lacking the COOH-terminal 15 residues, obtained by in vitro translation. Although we used native βγ subunits as immunogen, all monoclonal antibodies obtained failed to recognize assembled βγ subunits, and were specific for free β subunits. This property is useful in characterizing the assembly of G proteins from their subunits in living cells.
TU-A-BRE-01: The Relative Biological Effectiveness of Proton Beams Relative to Photon Beams

Proton therapy patients receive a 10% lower physical dose than the dose administered using photons, i.e. the proton relative biological effectiveness (RBE) is 1.1 in comparison to high-energy photons. The use of a generic, spatially invariant RBE within tumor targets and normal tissue structures disregards a large body of evidence indicating that proton RBE tends to increase with increasing linear energy transfer (LET). Because the doseaveraged proton LET in the distal edge of a spread out Bragg peak (SOBP) is larger than the LET in the plateau region or proximal edge of a SOBP, the use of a spatially invariant RBE is not well justified from a mechanistic point of view. On the other hand, the available clinical data on local tumor control rates and early or late side effects do not provide strong evidence against the continued use of a constant and spatially invariant clinical RBE. The only potential downside to the ongoing use of a constant RBE of 1.1 seems to be that we are missing a potential opportunity to enhance the therapeutic ratio, i.e., design proton therapy treatments in ways that exploit, rather than mitigate, spatial variations in proton RBE. Speakers in this symposium will: 1-review the laboratory and clinical evidence for and against the continued use of a spatially invariant RBE of 1.1, 2-examine some of the putative mechanisms connecting spatial variations in particle LET to estimates of the proton RBE at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels 3-assess the possible clinical significance of incorporating models for spatial variations in proton RBE into treatment planning systems. 4-discuss treatment planning and delivery techniques that will exploit the spatial variations of RBE within proton beams. Learning Objectives: 1. To review laboratory and clinical evidence for and against the continued use of a constant RBE of 1.1 2. To understand major mechanisms connecting proton LET to RBE at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels. 3. To quantify the potential opportunities and potential pitfalls of neglecting spatial variations in proton RBE in treatment plans 4. To understand the minimum requirements required to design proton treatment plans that benefit from a spatially changing RBE and discuss some of the technological challenges they may require.
Multipole Theory and Algorithms for Target Support Estimation

The inverse problem of estimating the smallest region of localization (minimum source region) of a source or scatterer that can produce a given radiation or scattered field is investigated with the help of the multipole expansion. The results are derived in the framework of the scalar Helmholtz equation. The proposed approach allows the estimation of possibly nonconvex minimum source regions. The derived method is illustrated with an example relevant to inverse scattering.
Posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms among children after Hurricane Katrina: a latent profile analysis

This study utilized latent profile analysis to identify typologies of distress [i.e., patterns of posttraumatic stress (PTS), anxiety, and depression symptoms] among children exposed to Hurricane Katrina. Outcomes and risk factors for these pattern groups were examined. Participants were children (n = 353; ages 8–15 years) affected by Hurricane Katrina. Children were assessed at 3–7 months (Time 1) and 14–17 months (Time 2) post-Katrina. Results identified three pattern groups (No Disturbance, PTS Only, and Mixed Internalizing) at Time 1. Children in the No Disturbance group reported the lowest levels of internal distress, while the Mixed Internalizing group reported the highest levels of internal distress at Time 2. The Mixed Internalizing and the PTS Only groups reported greater school problems than the No Disturbance group at Time 2. Perceived life threat and community violence exposure were risk factors associated with higher likelihood of falling in the PTS Only and Mixed Internalizing groups, compared to the No Disturbance group. Immediate loss and disruption was also a risk factor associated with a higher likelihood of falling in the PTS Only group, compared to the No Disturbance group. Finally, social support from parents or a classmate/friend was a significant protective factor associated with a lower likelihood of falling into a symptomatic pattern group.
Indexing unstructured activities with peripheral cues

A variety of ubiquitous computing systems have been built to automatically capture everyday activities in a number of domains. Many capture systems record streams of information that structure and form indices into the recording, providing users easy access to portions of interest. But this is challenging in very unstructured situations or unpredictable environments. In this paper, we explore introducing structure into the activity through the use of an artificial, unrelated, peripheral stream of information. We investigate the feasibility of this idea by integrating a stream of images into an existing meeting capture system. Our study suggests that this technique may be used effectively in some situations, and reveals similar methods of capturing and using indices that could be explored.
Common Factors in Christian Women's Preferences for Support When Dealing with a Spouse's Sexually Addictive or Compulsive Behaviors: The C.A.V.E.D. Theory

While research exists on many issues relating to wives of sex addicts, there is a void in the literature regarding the kinds of support women find most beneficial when dealing with a spouse's sexually addictive or compulsive behavior. Using a qualitative, grounded theory methodology, 22 Christian women from Canada and the United States were interviewed to identify the types of support they found most beneficial when dealing with this multifaceted problem in a marriage. Additionally, the common factors of support which are summarized by the acronym C.A.V.E.D. (Connection, Advocacy, Validation, Education and Direction) emerged from the analysis of the interviews.
A Privacy Policy Comparison of Health and Fitness Related Mobile Applications

Abstract Many mobile device end users believe that privacy is important when dealing with personal health-related information, but the challenge is to develop privacy policies in a meaningful way so that mobile software application developers can adequately meet the requirements of their intended end users. Comprehensive privacy policies, which meet self-regulatory guidelines of increasing transparency on data collection, are often written in a way that average mobile users cannot understand or completely ignore. This paper provides the results of a privacy policy comparison including application permissions requested and several readability metrics used to assess the current state of privacy policies in the health and fitness mobile application market. Our analysis indicates that developers may not be considering their end-users’ reading comprehension levels and specific application permissions are not adequately addressed when developers are creating their privacy policies.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Cultures of Cecal Anaerobes as Inocula to Reduce Salmonella typhimurium Colonization in Chicks with or Without Dietary Lactose

Abstract The ability of anaerobic cultures from mature chicken cecal material stored at −70 C for 1 or 10 mo to reduce Salmonella typhimurium colonization of the ceca of young chicks was evaluated. Chick treatments consisted of per os inoculation with anaerobic cultures from the cecal materials and providing or not providing the chicks dietary lactose. Chicks were challenged per os at 3 days of age with 106S. typhimurium. Chicks were killed on Day 10, and their cecal contents were analyzed for pH, oxidation-reduction potential, total short-chained volatile fatty acids (VFA), lactic acid, and the number of S. typhimurium per gram of cecal content. Cecal concentration of undissociated VFA was calculated. Dietary lactose produced a .66- to .87-unit decrease in cecal pH, and significant increases in cecal lactic acid concentrations, undissociated cecal acetic and propionic acid concentrations, and cecal oxidation-reduction potentials. The treatment of the combination of cecal anaerobes from the 1 mo-old cecal material and dietary lactose caused a greater reduction in S. typhimurium cecal colonization than any other treatment.
Growth and properties of YBa2Cu3O7-x superconducting thin films

Abstract YBa2Cu3O7−x films have been grown by reactive magnetron sputtering in an Ar + O2 sputtering atmosphere. As-grown films were amorphous and insulating and require a post-deposition annealing to show superconducting transitions on cooling. The best zero-resistance temperature T0 was measured to be 85 K with a transition width of 5 K. Josephson supercurrent tunneling was also observed in these films and was linked to the accumulation of the impurities at the grain boundaries. Cation stoichiometry was found to be dependent on the deposition conditions, especially the presputtering of the target prior to the deposition. Target surface analysis showed that a relatively thick layer has to be removed from the surface of the target before the true bulk composition can be achieved in the films.
Differential expression of nadph diaphorase in functionally distinct prefrontal cortices in the rhesus monkey

Abstract The prefrontal cortex of primates is an integrative centre for sensory, cognitive, mnemonic and emotional processes. The cellular features which contribute to the functional specialization of its subsectors are poorly understood. In this study we determined the distribution of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-diaphorase-positive neurons in structurally and functionally distinct prefrontal cortices in the rhesus monkey. This class of neurons express nitric oxide synthase which is necessary for the production of nitric oxide, a novel neural messenger implicated in learning and memory. The density of diaphorase-positive neurons was approximately four times higher in olfactory areas than in eulaminate areas (areas 9, 10, 12, 46, and 8), and two- to three-times higher in the agranular limbic area PAIL than in eulaminate areas. Positive neurons were concentrated in a deep band (layers V and VI), a superficial band (layers II and upper III), and were sparsely distributed in the central, thalamic recipient zone (deep layer III, layer IV and upper V). The highest densities of positive neurons were observed in the white matter where their prevalence followed the opposite trend than in the corresponding overlying cortices. The distribution of diaphorase-positive neurons was correlated with the regional anatomic and functional specialization of prefrontal cortices. Thus, diaphorase-positive neurons were most densely distributed in orbital and then medial prefrontal limbic cortices which have a low cell density and widespread connections. In contrast, positive neurons were comparatively sparse in eulaminate cortices, which have a high cell density and more restricted connections. These findings indicate that the distribution of diaphorase-positive neurons in prefrontal cortices is not random, but is associated with the structural architecture and functional attributes of these cortices. The preponderance of diaphorase-positive neurons in limbic cortices, which have been implicated in learning and memory, is consistent with the idea that nitric oxide may have a role in synaptic plasticity.
Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulators

This paper discusses the operating characteristics of a new class of spatial light modulators that utilize ferroelectric liquid crystals, and their application to building optoelectronic computing architectures.
Retroactive inhibition and hypnosis.

Resume Deux sujets ont appris des listes de dix numeros, chacun ayant trois chiffres, par la methode d'anticipation. On a employe un processus ordinaire d'inhibition retroactive. La Partie I est un rapport d'une experience pour tester la theorie de l'hypnose appelee theorie de desassociation. Quand la liste interpolee de numeros a ete apprise dans un etat (reveil ou transe) different de celui du premier apprentissage et le reapprentissage, le reapprentissage n'a pas ete meilleur. Ainsi la liste interpolee, quoiqu'apprise dans un etat different, n'a pas ete completement desassociee, mais a eu un effet aussi grand ou plus grand sur le reapprentissage qu'une liste apprise dans le meme etat. La Partie I est un rapport d'une experience pour comparer la memoire dans les etats de transe et de reveil pour des choses relativement sans signification apprises recemment dans l'etat de reveil. Les sujets ont subi 4 cycles, chacun de 16 jours. La memoire n'a pas ete meilleure dans l'etat de transe. Les differences qui ...
Dynamics of homogeneous-heterogeneous reactors

Abstract In many industrial processes both heterogeneous and homogeneous reactions can occur, and these reactions are strongly coupled through heat and mass transfer and reactive intermediates. Surface reactions can heat the boundary layer sufficiently to ignite homogeneous reaction, can deplete the boundary layer of a limiting reactant, and can act as a source or sink of free radicals. We have studied combustion reactions over catalytic foils and in catalytic monoliths for simple oxidations such as CH4 + O2, NH3 + O2, C3H8 + O2, CH4 + NO and NH3 + NO. For most reactions and geometries, we observe heterogeneous and homogeneous ignitions and extinctions and self-sustaining autothermal steady states. The range of compositions for which an autothermal state exists depends sensitively on the inlet gas velocity. For stagnation point flow, reaction over a catalytic foil can be modeled by a one-dimensional boundary value problem in which saddle-node bifurcations correspond to ignitions and extinctions. Computations for a model with simplified kinetics reproduce the experimental dependence on input power to the foil and inlet gas composition. Calculations also show that the dynamics are affected strongly by the inlet gas velocity.
Beyond the demographic transition.

In the past 30 years there has been a decline of death rates in deve loping countries and a rise and subsequent decline in birth rates in some developed countries. The developed countries appear to have gone beyond the demographic transition and to have entered an era in which fertility fluctuates mainly in response to influences other than those that reduced birth rates during the preceding 3 centuries. The principal features of the rise and decline in fertility since the lows of the 1930s were reached are reviewed. It is concluded that improved effectiveness of fertility control within marriage may have facilitated the movement toward younger marriage younger childbearing and higher proportions marrying and having children but that improvements in technology alone are not sufficient to account for these trends. The postwar movement toward younger marriage and childbearing was probably also influenced by improved economic conditions and by the assumption of greater responsibility by national goevernments for many of the costs associated with parenthood. Couples now respond to varying social and economic conditions more by changing the ages at which they marry and have children than by changing the total number of children they have. Countries in Eastern Europe went through the demographic transition late r than did the countries of Western Europe. It may be that the trend toward earlier childbearing is occurring later in Italy Portugal and Spain than in the countries of Northern and Western Europe. Further comparative studies are recommended to gain further information on recent trends in fertility.
Renal pseudoaneurysm: an overview

Renal pseudoaneurysm is a rare vascular lesion that arises when an arterial injury within the kidney leads to contained hemorrhage. The associated hematoma forms outside the arterial wall and is typically surrounded by a layer of fibrous inflammatory tissue and blood clot. These lesions are unstable and their rupture can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage. Renal pseudoaneurysm has been reported to occur in various clinical scenarios, including after renal trauma, surgery and percutaneous procedures, as well as inflammatory and neoplastic processes within the kidney. Endovascular selective angioembolization is the mainstay of treatment, although surgery might be indicated when hemostasis and repair of the arterial wall defect are required. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided embolization is an additional option for patients with unfavorable vascular anatomy, or who cannot tolerate or have contraindications to the use of intravenous contrast agents. Some evidence suggests that these lesions can regress without intervention, although observation alone is not recommended as a management strategy in the vast majority of patients owing to the high risk of rupture. Evaluation and management of patients with renal pseudoaneurysm must take into account each individual's circumstances, due to the difficulty of accurately predicting the probability of spontaneous resolution or rupture.
Requirement for Abl Kinases in T Cell Receptor Signaling

Abstract Background: The c-Abl and Arg proteins comprise a unique family of nonreceptor tyrosine kinases that have been implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation and survival, cytoskeletal reorganization, cell migration, and the response to oxidative stress and DNA damage. Targeted deletion or mutation of c-Abl in mice results in a variety of immune system phenotypes, including splenic and thymic atrophy, lymphopenia, and an increased susceptibility to infection. However, despite the generation of these mice over a decade ago, little is known regarding the mechanisms responsible for these phenotypes or the immune-related consequences of ablation of both the c-Abl and Arg kinases, which are coexpressed in lymphoid tissues. Results: Here, we report that T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation results in activation of the endogenous Abl kinases. We demonstrate that Zap70 and the transmembrane adaptor linker for activation of T cells (LAT) are targets of the Abl kinases, and that loss of Abl kinase activity reduces TCR-induced Zap70 phosphorylation at tyrosine 319. This correlates with diminished LAT tyrosine phosphorylation, as well as reduced tyrosine phosphorylation and recruitment of phospholipase Cγ1 to LAT. Significantly, we show that Abl kinase activity is required for maximal signaling leading to transcription of the IL-2 promoter, as well as TCR-induced IL-2 production and proliferation of primary T cells. Conclusions: We conclude that the Abl kinases have a role in the regulation of TCR-mediated signal transduction leading to IL-2 production and cell proliferation.
New noninvasive tests for Helicobacter pylori gastritis : Comparison with tissue-based gold standard

The current gold standard for diagnosingH. pylori gastritis requires antral biopsy for urease test (eg, CLOtest) and/or histology. We compared this gold standard to a new low-dose capsule-based 1 μCi[14C]urea breath test (UBT) and a rapid serum test for anti-H. pylori antibodies (FlexSure HP) in 50 consecutive patients undergoing upper endoscopy. Antral biopsies within 3 cm of the pylorus were used for CLOtest and were stained with H&E and thiazine. Slides were reviewed by a single, blinded pathologist (Review) and compared to the pathology department report (Report). A true positive was defined as a positive CLOtest or Review. The prevalence ofH. pylori infection by each test was: CLOtest 32%. Review 36%, gold standard 42%, UBT 38%, FlexSure HP 44%, Report 44%. UBT had sensitivity=90%, specificity=96%, positive predictive value=95%, and negative predictive value=93% and accurately determinedH. pylori status in a subgroup of 10 patients who had completed treatment. The one false positive breath test occurred in a patient with 2+chronic inflammation on biopsy and a positive antibody test. There were two false negative breath tests. Each had both negative CLOtests and negative antibody tests. FlexSure HP had sensitivity=74%, specificity=89%, positive predictive value=88%, and negative predictive value=77% in patients not previously treated, but had a high false-positive rate in the 10 patients after treatment. Pathology department Report and blinded pathologist Review had only 84% agreement, kappa=0.67. Both CLOtest and UBT agreed better with Review (86%, 87%, kappa=0.68, 0.73, respectively) than Report (78%, 77%, kappa=0.53, 0.53, respectively) suggesting that Review is more accurate than Report. When biopsy is done, we recommend that a CLOtest be performed followed by histological examination if the CLOtest is negative to ensure adequate sensitivity. However, interpretation of histological slides has significant interobserver variability even in experienced hand and may be inaccurate at times. FlexSure HP has good PPV but inadequate sensitivity to rule out active infection and is not useful in patients after treatment. UBT is an excellent noninvasive test that should be considered in cases where EGD is otherwise not indicated.
Chemical origins of permanent set in a peroxide cured filled silicone elastomer – tensile and 1H NMR analysis

Abstract The aging of a commercial filled siloxane polymeric composite in states of high stress and Co-60 γ-radiation exposure has been studied. DC-745 is a commercially available silicone elastomer consisting of dimethyl, methyl-phenyl, and vinyl-methyl siloxane monomers crosslinked with a peroxide vinyl specific curing agent. It is filled with ∼ 30 wt.% mixture of high and low surface area silicas. This filled material is shown to be subject to permanent set if exposed to radiation while under tensile stress. Tensile modulus measurements show that the material becomes marginally softer with combined radiation exposure and tensile strain as compared to material exposed to radiation without tensile strain. In addition, the segmental dynamics as measured by both uniaxial NMR relaxometry and Multiple Quantum NMR methods indicate that the material undergoes radiatively-induced crosslinking in the absence of tensile strain. In the presence of tensile strain, relaxometry and MQ NMR studies show a strain dependent change in the dynamic order parameter and in the number of polymer chains associated with the filler surface. Solvent swelling measurements indicated no dependence on network crosslink density on strain ratio. Variable tau CPMG echo experiments indicate that a fraction of the polymer chains diffuses through areas of strong magnetic field gradients both at the filler–polymer interface and adjacent to micro-voids within the network. The population of the polymer chains influenced by the field gradients was observed to be dependent on the cumulative dose and degree of tensile strain applied during exposure. The relative change in crosslink density from the NMR and solvent swelling data deviates from that predicted from the Tobolsky model, particularly at higher doses. The likely reasons for this deviation are changes in the filler–polymer interface, increasing deviation from Gaussian chain statistics, and/or the formation of increased numbers of elastically ineffective network chains.
Novel functions of GABA signaling in adult neurogenesis

Neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutiric acid (GABA) through ionotropic GABAA and metabotropic GABAB receptors plays key roles in modulating the development, plasticity and function of neuronal networks. GABA is inhibitory in mature neurons but excitatory in immature neurons, neuroblasts and neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs/NPCs). The switch from excitatory to inhibitory occurs following the development of glutamatergic synaptic input and results from the dynamic changes in the expression of Na+/K+/2Cl- co-transporter NKCC1 driving Cl- influx and neuron-specific K+/Cl- co-transporter KCC2 driving Cl- efflux. The developmental transition of KCC2 expression is regulated by Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. The excitatory GABA signaling during early neurogenesis is important to the activity/experience-induced regulation of NSC quiescence, NPC proliferation, neuroblast migration and newborn neuronal maturation/functional integration. The inhibitory GABA signaling allows for the sparse and static functional networking essential for learning/memory development and maintenance.
Antioxidant contents and activity of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP)-treated ‘Empire’ apples in air and controlled atmosphere storage

Abstract The effect of 1-MCP on ripening and concentrations of total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins and total antioxidant activity of ‘Empire’ apples (Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill var. domestica (Borkh.) Mansf.) was studied. Fruit were stored in air for up to 5 months, and in controlled atmosphere (CA) of 2 and 3 kPa O2 (2 kPa CO2) at 0.5 and 2.2 °C for 4.5 and 9 months. Ripening was delayed by 1-MCP treatment in both air and CA storage as indicated by lower internal ethylene concentrations and slower softening than in untreated fruit. Overall, total phenolic, flavonoid and anthocyanin concentrations as well as antioxidant activity were relatively stable during air and CA storage. In air-stored fruit, total phenolic concentrations were higher in the peel of 1-MCP treated fruit than in the control fruit, but slightly lower in the flesh of 1-MCP treated fruit. In CA-stored fruit, interactions between O2 partial pressures, temperature and storage duration were detected but overall, few consistent trends were observed. However, flavonoid concentrations were higher in the flesh of 1-MCP treated than untreated fruit kept in 2 kPa O2 while anthocyanin concentrations, only measured in the peel, were not affected by 1-MCP treatment. There were no correlations found between total phenolics and antioxidant activity. Ascorbic acid concentrations declined in both peel and flesh tissues of untreated and 1-MCP treated fruit stored in air, while changes of ascorbic acid concentrations in CA-stored fruit were inconsistent.
Familial expression of anti-Escherichia coli outer membrane porin C in relatives of patients with Crohn's disease

Background & Aims: Crohn's disease (CD) is a genetically complex disorder with strong familial aggregation. Pathogenesis appears to involve dysregulation of the immune response to endogenous bacteria. Anti- Escherichia coli outer membrane porin C (anti-OmpC) expression reflects an exaggerated response to commensal bacteria and occurs with higher frequency in CD. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is familial aggregation and genetic determination of anti-OmpC expression in CD families. Methods: Study groups consisted of 787 CD patients, 389 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, 619 unaffected relatives, and 216 healthy controls. Serum anti-OmpC was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: CD patients had a greater percentage of anti-OmpC than UC patients and healthy controls. Anti-OmpC expression was more frequent in unaffected relatives from CD-only or mixed families, compared with healthy controls ( P = .002 and .0001, respectively), and it was more frequent in UC patients from mixed families than those from UC-only families ( P = .02). There was a significant familiality in anti-OmpC expression: P = .02 for qualitative concordance and P P Conclusions: Anti-OmpC is a heritable immunophenotype. Increased anti-OmpC expression in the unaffected family members of CD patients suggests that anti-OmpC may be an immunologic risk marker for CD. That UC patients in mixed families had a higher response to OmpC than those in UC-only families indicates pathophysiologic heterogeneity within UC.
Concepts For Numerical Optical Computers

The approach to the design of an optical computer or processor system has typically been analog in nature in the past. Recently design concepts for a numerical optical processor have evolved in which we see digital techniques implemented with optical devices. This paper describes design concepts for a numerical optical processor which is based on the residue number system.
From social change organizations to social movements

From the Ground Up: Grassroots Organizations Making Social Change, by Carol Chetkovich and Frances Kunreuther. Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell University Press, 2006. 216 pp., $49.95 cloth.
Very Fast Global Motion Estimation using Partial Data

The minimization process of the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (LMA) used in estimating the global motion parameters tends to be very expensive computationally due to the involvement of all the pixels of an image frame. We propose to reduce the computational complexity of the LMA by using only a small portion of the image data in two stages. In the first stage, we seek to reduce the complexity of the initial guess of the transformation parameters, which is critical to the final convergence of the algorithm. The complexity of computing the initial guess can be lowered by using just a small subset of the pixels in the calculation of the translational components. The second stage of the LMA algorithm is to find the final motion parameters in an iterative fashion, based on the coarse estimate of the motion parameters obtained in the previous stage. The LMA in this stage again operates on a subset of the pixels to further reduce the overall computational complexity. Both analytical and simulation results showed that the proposed partial-data algorithm could achieve a speedup factor of over 25 for global motion estimation (GME) with an eight-parameter perspective motion model on several video sequences, without significant loss in the estimation accuracy compared with the conventional LMA on the full image data.
Fibrosarcoma of the Mediastinum

1 A brief review of the literature on mediastinal tumors is offered, with special attention to fibrosarcoma of the mediastinum. 2 Three unusual cases of mediastinal fibrosarcoma are reported. 3 Two of these showed a remarkable degree of mediastinal compression. Superior vena cava obstruction was extreme and pulmonary insufficiency intractable. Triethylenemelamine had a palliative effect in one case. 4 The third case exhibited bilateral hemothorax and died of exsanguination into the pleural space and mediastinal compression.
The antidepressant sertraline improves the phenotype, promotes neurogenesis and increases BDNF levels in the R6/2 Huntington’s disease mouse model

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive movement, psychiatric and cognitive disturbances. Previous studies have indicated that HD pathogenesis may be mediated in part by loss of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Antidepressants selectively blocking serotonin reuptake can increase BDNF levels, and also may increase neurogenesis. Here we report that an SSRI antidepressant, sertraline, prolongs survival, improves motor performance, and ameliorates brain atrophy in the R6/2 HD mouse model. Six-week-old R6/2 mice and nontransgenic control mice were administered either sertraline or vehicle daily. Motor function was assessed in an accelerating rotarod test and evaluated at 10 weeks. R6/2 mice exhibited reduced time on the rod. Sertraline treatment improved the motor performance in R6/2 mice, but did not affect nontransgenic mice. R6/2 mice showed significant striatal atrophy which was reduced by sertraline treatment. These beneficial effects of sertraline are associated with enhanced neurogenesis and increased BDNF levels in brain treated with sertraline. The effective serum and brain levels of sertraline are comparable to the levels achieved in human antidepressant treatment. Our findings provide evidence that sertraline is neuroprotective in this HD model. Successful treatment with sertraline in depressed HD patients has been reported; moreover, sertraline is safe and well-tolerated for long-term administration, including in HD patients. Our findings suggest that a clinical trial of SSRI treatment in order to retard disease progression in human HD may be warranted.
Pinealocyte dense-cored vesicles and synaptic ribbons: a correlative ultrastructural-biochemical investigation in rats and mice.

Dense-cored vesicles (DCV) and synaptic ribbons (SR) were quantified in the pineal gland of the rat (Sprague-Dawley) and mouse (Sasco/ICR strain), and day/night differences in frequency of these organelles correlated with levels of indoles determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). There were significant day/night differences in levels of serotonin (5HT), 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5HIAA), N-acetyl-5HT, and melatonin in the rat gland. Melatonin and N-acetyl-5HT were not detectable in the mouse gland sampled every 4 h over the light:dark cycle. The concentrations of 5HT and 5HIAA (ng/microgram protein) were similar in light-adapted rats and mice, but these indoles did not exhibit a circadian rhythm in the mouse gland. Correlative ultrastructural/biochemical results suggest that DCV do not contain physiologically important stores of 5HT since 1) the mouse gland contains the same number of DCV as the rat during the daytime, but only one-tenth the levels of 5HT, 2) day/night 5HT levels do not vary in the mouse gland, but there is a significant nocturnal decline in DCV numbers, and 3) 5HT levels in the rat gland decline at night when DCV numbers increase. Numbers of SR were significantly elevated at night in the rat and mouse, and the frequency of this organelle was similar in both species. However, ribbon-type SR predominated in rat pinealocytes, whereas SR in the mouse were almost exclusively spherical in shape. Day/night differences in SR numbers in the mouse gland suggest that cellular mechanisms regulating the frequency of this organelle do not involve factors related to indole metabolism. Because of the lack of photoperiodic effects on indole metabolism in the mouse pineal gland, this species is a potentially important model to study the functional relationship of pinealocyte organelles to cyclical changes in pineal products other than indoles (e.g., peptide/protein factors).
Task-specific modulation of adult humans' tool preferences: number of choices and size of the problem.

In two experiments, we examined the effect of modifications to the features of a stick-and-tube problem on the stick lengths that adult humans used to solve the problem. In Experiment 1, we examined whether people’s tool preferences for retrieving an out-of-reach object in a tube might more closely resemble those reported with laboratory crows if people could modify a single stick to an ideal length to solve the problem. Contrary to when adult humans have selected a tool from a set of ten sticks, asking people to modify a single stick to retrieve an object did not generally result in a stick whose length was related to the object’s distance. Consistent with the prior research, though, the working length of the stick was related to the object’s distance. In Experiment 2, we examined the effect of increasing the scale of the stick-and-tube problem on people’s tool preferences. Increasing the scale of the task influenced people to select relatively shorter tools than had selected in previous studies. Although the causal structures of the tasks used in the two experiments were identical, their results were not. This underscores the necessity of studying physical cognition in relation to a particular causal structure by using a variety of tasks and methods.
Mario Van Peebles’s Panther and Popular Memories of the Black Panther Party

The 1995 movie Panther depicted the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense as a vibrant but ultimately doomed social movement for racial and economic justice during the late 1960s. Panther's narrative indicted the white-operated police for perpetuating violence against African-Americans and for undermining movements for black empowerment. As such, this film represented a rare source of filmic counter-memory that challenged hegemonic memories of U.S. race relations. Newspaper reports and reviews of Panther, however, questioned the film's veracity as a source of historical information. An analysis of these reviews and reports indicates the challenges counter-memories confront in popular culture.
Effect of daily injections of growth hormone-releasing factor and thyrotropin-releasing hormone on growth and endocrine parameters in chickens

Abstract The control of growth is a complex mechanism regulated by several metabolic hormones including growth hormone (GH) and thyroid hormones. In avian species, as well as in mammals, GH secretion is regulated by hypothalamic hypophysiotropic hormones. Since thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) are potent GH secretagogues in poultry, we were interested in determining the influence of daily intravenous administration of either peptide or both simultaneously on circulating GH and IGF-I concentrations and whether an improvement in growth rate or efficiency would be obtained. Male broiler chicks were injected once daily for a period of 21 days with either GRF (10 μg/kg), TRH (1 μg/kg) or both GRF and TRH (10 and 1 μg/kg respectively) between four and seven weeks of age. On the last day of the experiment, following intravenous injection of TRH, GRF or a combination of GRF and TRH, plasma GH levels were significantly (P Despite the large elevation in GH concentration each day, growth rate, feed efficiency and circulating IGF-I concentrations were not enhanced. Thus the quantity or secretory pattern of GH secretion induced by TRH or GRF administration was not sufficient to increase plasma IGF-I concentration or growth.
Molecular dynamics study of secondary structure motion in proteins: Application to myohemerythrin

The concept of secondary structure motions is examined in a molecular dynamics simulation of the protein myohemerythrin. We extracted from the simulation a corresponding trajectory of helices and demonstrated that the fluctuations of the protein are dominated by a rigid shift of these secondary structure elements. The relative motions of the helices are irregular, with no clear periodicity. They are bounded by approximately 2 A for the center of mass motions and by 20 degrees for the relative orientations. The potential of mean force for the interactions of the helices was calculated, and the correlations between the different extended motions were investigated. It is shown that the one-dimensional mean force potentials are close to quadratic for most of the helices coordinates. The anharmonicity is reflected by changes in the direction of the normal modes as a function of the energy and by the existence of multiple free energy minima for the helices packing. The multiple conformations are associated with a single type of secondary structure coordinate: the angle that describes the relative orientation of the helices in a plane perpendicular to the line connecting their center of mass.