cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sumoylation of bZIP Transcription Factor NRL Modulates Target Gene Expression during Photoreceptor Differentiation

Development of rod photoreceptors in the mammalian retina is critically dependent on the basic motif-leucine zipper transcription factor NRL (neural retina leucine zipper). In the absence of NRL, photoreceptor precursors in mouse retina produce only cones that primarily express S-opsin. Conversely, ectopic expression of NRL in post-mitotic precursors leads to a rod-only retina. To explore the role of signaling molecules in modulating NRL function, we identified putative sites of post-translational modification in the NRL protein by in silico analysis. Here, we demonstrate the sumoylation of NRL in vivo and in vitro, with two small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) molecules attached to the Lys-20 residue. NRL-K20R and NRL-K20R/K24R sumoylation mutants show reduced transcriptional activation of Nr2e3 and rhodopsin promoters (two direct targets of NRL) in reporter assays when compared with wild-type NRL. Consistent with this, in vivo electroporation of the NRL-K20R/K24R mutant into newborn Nrl−/− mouse retina leads to reduced Nr2e3 activation and only a partial rescue of the Nrl−/− phenotype in contrast to the wild-type NRL that is able to convert cones to rod photoreceptors. Although PIAS3 (protein inhibitor of activated STAT3), an E3-SUMO ligase implicated in photoreceptor differentiation, can be immunoprecipitated with NRL, there appears to be redundancy in E3 ligases, and PIAS3 does not seem to be essential for NRL sumoylation. Our studies suggest an important role of sumoylation in fine-tuning the activity of NRL and thereby incorporating yet another layer of control in gene regulatory networks involved in photoreceptor development and homeostasis.
Heterogeneous expression of two oncodevelopmental antigens, CEA and SSEA-1, in colorectal cancer

Colorectal carcinomas are composed of heterogeneous cell subpopulations which may be instrumental in conferring metastatic potential and therapeutic refractoriness to these tumours. To assess cellular heterogeneity, the expression has been examined of two oncodevelopmental antigens, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (SSEA-1), by double immunofluorescence microscopy on 11 human colorectal carcinomas. Although both antigens were expressed in each tumour, their regional and cellular locations differed considerably. SSEA-1 expression was rarely expressed in poorly differentiated cancers but was enhanced with increasing degrees of differentiation. CEA expression was independent of histological differentiation. SSEA-1 was expressed with similar frequency in cell membranes, cytoplasm, and glandular contents regardless of degree of differentiation. Cytoplasmic staining with CEA however, was limited to more poorly differentiated tumours. In normal mucosa remote from the tumours and transitional mucosa adjacent to them, SSEA-1 stained only a few lower crypts whereas CEA stained a majority of both upper and lower crypts. Although biochemical studies have indicated that the SSEA-1 epitope may reside on CEA molecules, the fact that colon cancer tissues express these two antigens quite heterogeneously suggests differences in antigenic processing which may be dependent upon the degree of cellular differentiation.
Gallium(III) and indium(III) complexes of cross-bridged tetraamine ligands

Abstract Gallium(III) and indium(III) complexes of cross-bridged cyclam and cyclen tetraaza macrocyclic ligands have been prepared and structurally characterized. In the crystalline state, both the GaCl3 (cross-bridged cyclam) and InBr3 (cross-bridged cyclen) complexes feature hexacoordinate cations in cis-folded tetradentate ligand clefts with ancillary cis-dihalides. These represent the first well-characterized gallium and indium halide complexes of tetraazamacrocycles.
Activation of the hexose monophosphate shunt during cold-induced glycerol accumulation by Protophormia terranovae.

Abstract To evaluate the relative contributions made by glycolysis and the hexose monophosphate shunt during cold stress, glucose catabolism by adult Protophormia terranovae (which accumulate glycerol) and Musca domestica (which do not) was examined at 22°C and 2°C. Following injection of [1- 14 C]-glucose, [6- 14 C]-glucose and [3,4- 14 C]-glucose, rates of 14 CO 2 evolution were determined. In addition, the incorporation of label from both [1- 14 C]-glucose and [6- 14 C]-glucose into free glycerol and lipids was monitored. Respirometric studies show that both species increase their rates of glycolysis relative to the TCA-cycle at the lower temperature with P. terranovae exhibiting a slightly greater increment. The rate of the hexose monophosphate shunt relative to the TCA-cycle remains unchanged when M. domestica are shifted from 22°C to 2°C. However, in P. terranovae the rate of this pathway relative to the TCA cycle is doubled by the same temperature shift. The labelling patterns in free glycerol and lipids of P. terranovae support the respirometric data, indicating a significantly increased role for the hexose monophosphate shunt in this species during cold stress. The possible significance of this observation in relation to glycerol accumulation by P. terranovae is discussed.
Retardation in two-photon absorption.

Previous calculations of two-photon absorption and emission in hydrogen have revealed frequencies at which the transition is forbidden, at least within the approximations made. Here we show that if retardation is taken into account these so-called ''transparency frequencies'' are slightly shifted, but the zero transition amplitude persists.
A Method for Partial Purification of Lamellar Granules from Fetal Rat Epidermis

A subcellular fraction enriched with lamellar granules was obtained from homogenates of fetal rat epidermis by means of density gradient fractionation in metrizamide. 62% of organelles in this fraction were bounded by single membranes and measured 80–130 nm in the shorter diameter. About 10% of these had characteristic lamellae. Other structures in this fraction were larger vesicles (20%) or smaller organelles and vesicles (18%). The fraction had a low buoyant density (1.08–1.10) suggesting a high lipid content and contained a sharply localized peak of acid phosphatase activity. The 80–130 am organelles reacted with bismuth after oxidation with periodic acid and were positive for acid phosphatase. Other intracellular organelles (eg., lysosomes, mitochondria, ribosomes) as well as keratin fibrils and keratohyalin were not present. It is concluded that most of this fraction consists of lamellar granules, permitting for the first time detailed investigations of the composition and metabolism of these organelles.
A PIXE method for investigating the time changes of halothane content during anaesthesia

Abstract The PIXE method was applied to determine the time variation of the bromine content in blood during and after anaesthesia. A mathematical model to describe the processes responsible for the bromine distribution is proposed.
Fumonisin B1-induced alterations in cytokine expression and apoptosis signaling genes in mouse liver and kidney after an acute exposure

Fumonisin B(1) (FB(1)), a carcinogenic mycotoxin produced primarily by fungus Fusarium verticillioides in corn, causes several fatal animal diseases. In mice, liver is the primary site of its toxicity. Our previous study showed that maximum induction of interferon gamma (IFNgamma) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) was observed at 4 and 8 h, respectively, after an acute po FB(1) treatment. To further investigate the time-related induction of other cytokines and genes involved in apoptosis signaling, male BALB/c mice were administered orally with either saline or 25 mg/kg of FB(1) and sampled 4 or 8 h after treatment. Expression of various genes was analyzed by ribonuclease protection assay. FB(1) treatment caused increased expression of TNFalpha and interleukin (IL)-1beta in both liver and kidney, whereas IL-1alpha and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) expression was induced only in the liver. Expression of TNFalpha signaling molecules, TNF receptor 55 and receptor interacting protein, was increased in liver and kidney after FB(1) treatment. Caspase 8 expression was increased only in liver with no changes in kidney with FB(1). FB(1) treatment induced expression of Fas in liver and kidney with no alterations in Fas signaling molecules, Fas ligand, Fas-associated death domain and Fas-associated protein factor. Treatment of mice with FB(1) increased the expression of B-Myc, c-Myc and Max, oncogenic transcription factors in the kidney. FB(1) toxicity caused induction of cytokine network in liver with involvement of TNFalpha signaling pathway. Increased expression of caspase 8 involved in the TNFalpha signaling pathway may contribute to the apoptosis, whereas IL-1Ra induction could contribute to the proliferating effects observed in FB(1) toxicity.
Acquisition of meaning through context

Ss, who were shown sentences with nonsense syllables replacing certain words, demonstrated: (a) enhanced syllable recognition, (b) interference in learning incorrectly paired syllables and replaced words, but (c) facilitation for correct pairings and (d) for pairings with associates of replaced words. Findings support the proposition that nonsense materials embedded in contexts with meaning acquire meaning.
Problem-solving deficits in depressed children, adolescents, and adults

Recent research has emphasized the importance of interpersonal problems with depression. It has been hypothesized that deficits in interpersonal problem-solving skills may account for many of these problems. Three studies that examined the relationship between problem-solving skills and depression are reported. Problem-solving skills among children, adolescents, and adults were assessed by the Means-Ends Problem Solving Test. Contrary to prediction, there were no differences in problem-solving skills between depressed and nondepressed groups; these findings were consistent across each age group. The external validity of such paper-and-pencil measures of problem solving is questioned; it is suggested that future research focus on how depressed individuals solve real-life problems.
Nucleotide occupancy of F1-ATPase catalytic sites under crystallization conditions.

Using site-directed tryptophan fluorescence we studied nucleotide occupancy of the catalytic sites of Escherichia coli F1-ATPase, under conditions used previously for crystallization and X-ray structure analysis of the bovine mitochondrial enzyme [Abrahams et al. (1994) Nature 370, 621–628]. We found that only two of the three catalytic sites were filled in the E. coli enzyme under these conditions (250 μM MgAMPPNP plus 5 μM MgADP), consistent with what was reported in the bovine F1 X-ray structure. However, subsequent addition of a physiological concentration of MgATP readily filled the third catalytic site. Therefore the enzyme form seen in the X-ray structure results from the fact that it is obtained under sub-saturating nucleotide conditions. The data show that the X-ray structure is compatible with a catalytic mechanism in which all three F1-ATPase catalytic sites must fill with MgATP to initiate steady-state hydrolysis [e.g. Weber and Senior (1996) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1275, 101–104]. The data further demonstrate that the site-directed tryptophan fluorescence technique can provide valuable support for F1 crystallography studies. © 1997 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.
Enhancement of Heat Transfer with Inclined Baffles and Ribs Combined

Heat transfer enhancement techniques are found in many of today's processes. Devices such as inclined baffles, rib turbulators, jet impingement, etc., are all used in order to augment the thermal transfer of a process. Inclined baffles have been studied, along with the combination of jet impingement techniques. Inclined baffles enhance heat transfer by enhancing large-scale fluid bulk motion and through tripped boundary layer flow separation. Impinging jets, created by perforating the baffle, create additional heat transfer through flow impingement on the heated surface. Rib turbulators create heat transfer augmentation by disturbing the thermal boundary layer, unlike baffles; ribs enhance heat transfer in areas near the heat transfer surface, leaving the core flow largely undisturbed. This paper describes experimental investigation of heat transfer with turbulent flow in a rectangular channel with inclined solid and perforated baffles combined with rib turbulators. Combining ribs with perforated and incl...
Some comments on elastic-plastic analysis

Abstract Definitions of plastic and elastic deformation are discussed which are directly related to the physical characteristics of the phenomena and which provide essential uncoupling of elastic and plastic variables. Using finite deformation kinematics and appropriate strain-rate variables in order to carry out total incremental theory, analysis is presented concerning the fact that the total strain rate is not equal to the sum of elastic and plastic rates as is universally assumed. The consequences of this circumstance are examined. It is shown that a conflicting approach to the finite-deformation kinematics of elastic-plastic theory by Nemat-Nasser[4], which generates summable elastic and plastic strain rates, exhibits undesirable features and in particular the associated kinetics does not permit completion of the objective of developing an elastic-plastic constitutive relation on this basis.
Sample size of parenteral solutions for sterility testing

Two questions have been asked in regard to sampling for sterility testing: “What size of representative sample should be taken?” and “How much should sample size vary with lot size?” Both of these questions can be answered by using some mathematical calculations together with a few assumptions. Recent developments in sampling theory have shown that sometimes tremendous variations in the quality of lots passed are due to chance alone involved in selecting the sample. It has been shown that it is possible to predict the variations and the frequency with which they will occur. The results of the mathematical calculations on a particular sample plan can be shown graphically by means of a curve called an “operating characteristic curve.” Much has been written on sampling; however, Grant (1) and the Statistical Research Group (2) summarize sampling developments quite well.
One-Point Wonders: Using Student Experiences as a Way to Make Ob Theory Come Alive:

Need some good examples of organization behavior (OB) concepts to illustrate course material? Why not ask your students? This article describes how having students write short stories (about one or two paragraphs) about their personal experiences can enhance your OB class in several ways. Students reported reading more of the course material and having an increased interest in the OB class because of this assignment. Being required to submit one incident for each chapter covered in the semester also boosts class attendance. Teaching courses in OB can be made easier, richer, more enjoyable, and more fun by utilizing one-point wonders.
Recent advances in staring hybrid focal plane arrays: comparison of HgCdTe, InGaAs, and GaAs/AlGaAs detector technologies

A comparison of photovoltaic HgCdTe/Al2O3, HgCdTe/CdZnTe, InGaAs/InP and photoconductive GaAs/AlGaAs quantum well infrared photodetector detector technologies has been conducted at Rockwell by exploiting the ability to selectively hybridize disparate mosaic detector arrays to an assortment of silicon multiplexers. Hybrid FPA characteristics are reported as functions of operating temperature from 32.5 K to room temperature and at photon backgrounds from approximately equals 106 to mid-1016 photons/cm2-sec. The staring arrays range in size from about sixteen thousand to over a million pixels. Background-limited detectivities significantly exceeding 1014 cm-(root)Hz/W were achieved.
Metabolism of the Oyster, Crassostrea virginica

SYNOPSIS. The American oyster, Crassostrea virginica , has some metabolic traits typical of marine bivalve molluscs, andsome that are apparently unique. Cvconsumption is rapid when the valves are open, but may become and remain zero for days on closure. Rates of nitrogen-excretion are similar to those of other marine bivalves; the chief end-products are ammonia (65 –70%) and amino acids (5–21 %), but small amounts of urea and uric acid are regularly found. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of marine molluscs has a low content of the base-pair, guanine-cytosine (GC); oyster DN'A has thelowest GC (about 28 %) of nine species studied. There are six sterols, the major one cholesterol, and there is evidence of changes in steroid metabolism with the gonadal cycle. Aminotransferase activities of marine bivalves are proportional to rates of loss of amino acids, suggesting that the enzymes function to assure continuous replenishment. The oyster isunique in its extraordinarily low rate of conversion of alanine to pyruvate. Most of the intermediates and enzymes requiredfor complete oxidation of glucose have been found in some species of Crassostrea , but anaerobic glycolysis produces more succinic than lactic acid. A partial explanation lies in ready reversibility of succinate and laclate oxidoreductases.
Quantum cryptography in free space

The range of quantum cryptography systems using optical fibers is limited to roughly 30 km because amplifiers cannot be used. A fully operational system for quantum cryptography based on the transmission of single photons in free space under daylight conditions has been demonstrated. The feasibility of a global system for quantum cryptography based on a network of ground stations and satellites is discussed.
Quantitation of protein S-glutathionylation by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry: correction for contaminating glutathione and glutathione disulfide.

Abstract Protein S-glutathionylation is a posttranslational modification that links oxidative stimuli to reversible changes in cellular function. Protein–glutathione mixed disulfide (PSSG) is commonly quantified by reduction of the disulfide and detection of the resultant glutathione species. This methodology is susceptible to contamination by free unreacted cellular glutathione (GSH) species, which are present in 1000-fold greater concentration. A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)-based method was developed for quantification of glutathione and glutathione disulfide (GSSG), which was used for the determination of PSSG in biological samples. Analysis of rat liver samples demonstrated that GSH and GSSG coprecipitated with proteins similar to the range for PSSG in the sample. The use of [13C2,5N]GSH and [13C4,5N2]GSSG validated these results and demonstrated that the release of GSH from PSSG did not occur during sample preparation and analysis. These data demonstrate that GSH and GSSG contamination must be accounted for when determining PSSG content in cellular/tissue preparations. A protocol for rinsing samples to remove the adventitious glutathione species is demonstrated. The fragmentation patterns for glutathione were determined by high-resolution mass spectrometry, and candidate ions for detection of PSSG on protein and protein fragments were identified.
Effect of Photosynthetic Intermediates on the Magnesium Inhibition of Oxygen Evolution by Barley Chloroplasts

Millimolar concentrations of Mg2+ inhibited CO2-dependent O2 evolution by barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) chloroplasts and also prevented the activation of NADP-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, ribulose-5-phosphate kinase, and fructose-1,6-diphosphatase by light in intact chloroplasts. When added in the dark, 3-phosphoglycerate prevented the inhibition of O2 evolution by Mg2+ and reduced the Mg2+ inhibition of enzyme activation by light. Fructose 1,6-diphosphate and ribulose 5-phosphate also prevented the inhibition of O2 evolution by Mg2+ whereas glucose 1-phosphate, glucose 6-phosphate, ribulose 1,5-diphosphate, and citrate had no effect. Phosphoenolpyruvate gave an intermediate response. Metabolites that prevented the Mg2+ inhibition of O2 evolution shortened the lag phase of CO2-dependent O2 evolution in the absence of M2+. Loading chloroplasts in the dark with 3-phosphoglycerate reduced both the lag phase of O2 evolution and the inhibition of O2 evolution by Mg2+. The results suggested that Mg2+ inhibition was lessened either by external metabolites that compete with inorganic phosphate for transport into the chloroplast or by a high concentration of internal metabolites.
Combined antegrade and retrograde dilation: A new endoscopic technique in the management of complex esophageal obstruction

Background: Esophageal strictures that cause complete obstruction are often difficult to dilate with standard bougienage techniques. Methods: A new technique was developed and applied, combined antegrade and retrograde dilation, for dilatation of complex esophageal strictures. The stomach is accessed and an endoscope (9.8 mm diameter) is directed under fluoroscopy in a retrograde fashion into the distal esophagus. A guidewire with a hydrophilic coating is advanced through the stricture and then pulled through the mouth with a simultaneously placed proximal endoscope. The guidewire is then used as a guide for antegrade esophageal dilatation. Results: Ten patients with complex esophageal strictures (with and without fistulas) were treated with this technique. Three required a second combined antegrade and retrograde dilation procedure. All strictures were dilated and no perforations occurred. Conclusions: Combined antegrade and retrograde dilation is a safe and effective technique for dilation of complex obstructing esophageal lesions.
The distribution of HLA-A, B, C, DR antigens in Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in Taiwan.

To evaluate the role of genetic factor in hepatocellular carcinoma, HLA-A, B, C and DR locus antigens were typed in 170 Chinese patients. Forty-three HLA-A, B, C, DR-related antigens were assayed by the conventional method. No significant risk antigen can be identified among these antigens. The distribution of each antigen was not related to sex, HBsAg, and alpha-fetoprotein status. The results suggest that there are no specific HLA-A, B, C and DR antigens patterns or frequencies associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Pathogenesis and treatment of endocarditis

The rabbit model has been invaluable for in vivo studies in the pathogenesis and treatment of bacterial endocarditis. Both of the features of the mature bacterial vegetations in this rabbit model, i.e., absence of phagocytosis and decreased metabolic activity, provide evidence to support the concept that a rapidly bactericidal antimicrobial agent provides the optimal approach to the successful treatment of endocarditis. Imipenem, a carbapenem with a very broad spectrum of in vitro activity, has been shown to be rapidly bactericidal in animals and highly effective in the treatment of experimental bacterial endocarditis. In addition, twenty-six patients with endocarditis, caused largely by Staphylococcus aureus, have been successfully treated with imipenem/cilastatin.
Effects of BMI and task parameters on joint angles during simulated small parts assembly

Abstract Functional limitations of persons classified into different obesity categories were evaluated while performing a simulated small parts assembly tasks. Joint angles (measured using electro-goniometers) and maximum forward function reach (MFFR) were used to quantify function limitations, and tasks were completed on three workstations designed for the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentile workers based on anthropometric data tables. Results revealed that BMI category did not significantly affect measured joint angles. Results also indicated that joint angles when working at the 95th percentile workstation configuration were significantly larger than those measured at the 5th percentile workstation configuration. Further, obese class 2 and obese class 3 groups MFFRs were significantly shorter than the normal weight group, which was expected. These results imply that workstation design considerations should include obesity levels, and that work should be placed near the worker and should be elevated to reduce pressure on joint angles while working for larger (obese) individuals. Relevance to industry Obesity is a widespread problem for most leading world nations. In contrast to the comprehensive literature on obesity, there is very little research on the functional limitations of the obese population. There is a need to obtain a better understanding of the musculoskeletal system of the obese, specifically their functional reach limitation and joint angles while working at a standing workstation.
The Relational Self and Pre-existing Depression: Implicit Activation of Significant-other Representations Exacerbates Dysphoria and Evokes Rejection in the Working Self-concept

This research tested the hypothesis that increased dysphoric mood and rejection in the working self-concept would emerge among individuals with pre-existing symptoms of depression—based on implicit activation (vs. not) of a mental representation of a loved-but-rejecting family member (rather than a disliked/rejecting one). Dysphoric college students randomly assigned to anticipate an interaction with a new person resembling a loved significant other showed increases in depressed mood and offered freely listed self-descriptions that were more characterized (according to judges) by a sense of “rejection” (relative to a control condition). No such effects occurred among non-dysphoric individuals. Dysphoric individuals may be especially vulnerable emotionally to expected encounters with new people who resemble loved family members by whom they have felt rejected.
Leap: a “personal information environment” for software engineers

The Leap toolkit is designed to provide Lightweight, Empirical, Anti-measurement dysfunction, and Portable approaches to software developer improvement. Using Leap, software engineers gather and analyze personal data concerning time, size, defects, patterns, and checklists. They create and maintain definitions describing their software development procedures, work products, and project attributes, including document types, defect types, severities, phases, and size definitions. Leap also supports asynchronous software review and facilitates integration of this group-based data with individually collected data. The Leap toolkit provides a "reference model" for a personal information environment to support skill acquisition and improvement for software engineers.
C-C Chemokine Receptor 5 on Pulmonary Fibrocytes Facilitates Migration and Promotes Metastasis via Matrix Metalloproteinase 9

Previously, our group has used a B16-F10 melanoma model to show that C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) knockout (CCR5−/−) mice form fewer pulmonary metastases than wild-type mice. This advantage can be eliminated by injecting CCR5−/− mice with wild-type pulmonary mesenchymal cells before tumor injection. In this article, we present the mechanisms underlying this finding. First, we demonstrate that wild-type mesenchymal cells migrate to CCL4 more efficiently in vitro than CCR5−/− cells. Wild-type mesenchymal cells were also 3.6 (1.85 to 5.85) times more efficient than CCR5−/− cells at migrating into the lung after intravenous injection (P < 0.01). The injection of wild-type but not CCR5−/− mesenchymal cells led to a 7.0 ± 1.6 (P < 0.05)-fold induction of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) in the host lung. Neither wild-type nor CCR5−/− cells caused significant increases in MMP2, MMP3, or MMP8. Inhibition of the gelatinase activity of MMP9 decreased the number of metastases and restored the advantage that CCR5−/− mice have over wild-type mice. Further analysis showed that the CCR5+ mesenchymal cells expressed CD45+ and CD13+ but did not express α-smooth muscle actin. This phenotype is characteristic of a subset of mesenchymal cells called fibrocytes. Together, these data suggest a novel role for CCR5 in the migration of pulmonary fibrocytes and the promotion of metastasis.
A more accurate approach to assessing alcohol use by self-report?

Studies of adolescent alcohol use commonly rely on a small number of self-report survey items used to calculate a quantity-frequency index (QFI). This approach requires respondents to average acros...
An Interactive Exercise: Demonstrating The Positive Side Of Control:

The interactive exercise has participants validate for themselves the need for the appropriate use of control. Participants explore the effectiveness of four managerial archetypes for themselves. One uses neither interactive nor controlling skills; one uses only interactive; one uses only controlling; and the other one uses both sets of skills. This exercise has been validated in both traditional and non-traditional organizations and for both men and women. For comparison, a chart is provided contrasting the commitment, tension and performance of the work units for the four types of managers. Also, the exercise introduces participants to the concept and validity of 360 degree feedback.
Matter-antimatter molecules

Abstract We show that hydrogen-antihydrogen does not form a stable molecule, as it dissociates into seperate proton-antiproton and positronium atoms which have no common bound state.
Multicomponent linchpin coupling of silyl dithianes employing an N-Ts aziridine as the second electrophile: synthesis of (-)-indolizidine 223AB.

An efficient, stereocontrolled assembly of the indolizidine alkaloid, (−)-indolizidine 223AB, exploiting a three-component linchpin coupling employing an N-Ts aziridine as the second electrophile, followed by a one-pot sequential construction of the indolizidine ring system, has been achieved. The longest linear sequence was 10 steps, proceeding in 10% overall yield.
A highly selective route to linear alpha olefins from biomass-derived lactones and unsaturated acids

This work demonstrates the use of Lewis-acid catalysts, such as gamma-alumina and tungstated alumina, for selective production of linear alpha olefins by decarboxylation of lactones and unsaturated carboxylic acids.
Mucous droplets with multiple membranes in the accessory submandibular glands of long-winged bats.

Background: Certain species of bats possess two sets of submandibular glands, namely, principal and accessory. The ultrastructure and histochemistry of the accessory submandibular gland was examined in three species of long-winged bats. Methods: Specimens of Miniopterus schreibersi and M. Magnator were live-trapped in Thailand, and of M. inflatus were live-trapped in Kenya. For electron microscopy, accessory submandibular lands were initially fixed in triple aldehyde-DMSO, postfixed in osmium tetroxide, and embedded in Epon-Maraglas. A portion of the glands collected in Thailand (M. schreibersi and magnator) was fixed in buffered formalin and embedded in paraffin. Sections of the latter material were subjected to a battery of histochemical tests for glycoconjugates. Results: Although in all three species the accessory submandibular glands have normal histological structure, the glands in two, M. schreibersi and M. magnator, were distinguished by possessing mucous droplets of unusual morphology. These droplets, whose identity as mucous was confirmed by histochemical tests for glygoconjugates, are delimited by maniflod membranes: up to 10 in M. Schreibersi and fewer, but still multiple, in M. magnator. In both species, the entire array of surface membranes may fold inward in the fashion of mitochondiral cristae, forming packets of membranes, many of which have the spurious appearance of floating free in the droplet matirix. These multipartite limiting membranes appear to originate simply by Golgi saccules and moderately large, flattened Golgi vesicles repeatedly wrapping themselves around the surface of nascent mucous droplets. During exocytosis, the outermost membrane of each mucous droplet contacts the luminal membrane, this barrie ruptures, then the remainder of the droplet—multiple membranes and matrix—either flow into the lumen or are cast out in toto. In either case, a great deal of membrane phospholipid is added to the salivea. This salivary lipid may permit these bats to consume insects that normally are able to repel predators with chemical defenses that make them unpalatable. The thrid species that we studied, M. inflatus, has mucous droplets of normal appearance, i.e., they have only one limiting membrane. Conclusions: The varying structure of mucous secretory products among the species of Miniopterus provides important clues as to the evolution of this genus as well as to the evolution of secretory cells in general. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
MMS: An autonomic network-layer foundation for network management

Networks cannot be managed without management plane communications among geographically distributed network devices and control agents. Unfortunately, the mechanisms used in commercial networks to support management plane communications are often hard to configure, insufficiently secured, and/or suboptimal in performance. This paper presents the design and implementation of the meta-management system (MMS), a network-layer subsystem that provides robust autonomic support for management plane communications. We demonstrate the practicality of the MMS via a fully functional implementation that runs on commodity hardware, and experimentally show that the MMS is efficient and scalable. The MMS software is freely available.
IDENTITY OF THE ENDOSYMBIONT OF PERIDINIUM FOLIACEUM (PYRROPHYTA): ANALYSIS OF THE rbcLS OPERON1

Extant chromophytic algae have been suggested to have originated via the engulfment of a photo synthetic alga by a colorless protist. The dinoflagellate Peridinium foliaceum (Stein) Biecheler contains a reduced chlorophyll c–containing endosymbiont and, thus, represents an evolutionary intermediate stage in the establishment of chloroplasts. Although the exact phylogenetic relationship of the symbiont to extant algal species is unknown, it had been suggested that the P. foliaceum symbiont was either a diatom or a chrysophyte. Identification of the closest living relative of the P. foliaceum symbiont would provide a free-living model system with which the photosynthetic symbiont could be compared. Nucleotide sequence analysis of rbcL and rbcS (encoding the large and small subunits ofribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) by the P. foliaceum symbiont was performed to provide insights into its identity. Cloned restriction fragments from a chloroplast DNA library were screened, and clones encoding the rbcLS operon were sequenced. Parsimony phylogenetic analysis was performed for each gene. Our data strongly suggest that the symbiont originated from a photosynthetic diatom.
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIPS OF RORSCHACH SCORES, PATTERNS, AND BEHAVIOR TO COPING AND DEFENSE MECHANISMS.

Abstract Relationships were studied between formal Rorschach scores and a set of coping and defense mechanisms which had been rated on the basis of intensive interviews conducted with normal adult subjects. A preliminary study showed that IQ was related to a number of Rorschach scores, so that it was subsequently controlled. The character of the initial results and the attributes of coping functions suggested a second investigation which defined the Rorschach variables more globally. The results of this study very generally follow common expectancies in regard to M, M: FM, and W: M, but A, F extended, and F: Fk + Fc do not follow such trends. Global Rorschach attitudes were found to relate better to coping mechanisms than formal scores.
Changes in Chlorophyll Content and Antioxidant Capacity During Dark to Light Transitions in Etiolated Seedlings: Comparisons of Species and Units of Enzyme Activity

Etiolated seedlings from Triticum aestivum L. (wheat), Zea mays L. (maize), Lens culinaris Medik. (lentil), Pisum sativum L. (pea), and Phaseolus vulgaris L. (bean) were studied during a four day period following transition into light. De-etiolation was expected to induce oxidative stress in seedlings, which would necessitate increased antioxidant enzymes. Triticum and Phaseolus seedlings were relatively quick to increase chlorophyll (chl) levels in light, whereas dark-germinated Zea, Lens, and Pisum seedlings had lower chlorophyll contents compared to light-germinated seedlings after four days of light exposure. The chl a/chl b ratio began significantly higher in light-germinated seedlings compared to dark-germinated seedlings. Chl a/chl b ratios were not significantly different between light- and dark-germinated treatments within two days of light exposure in Triticum and Phaseolus, but were still different in Zea, Lens, and Pisum after four days of light exposure. Leaf ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activi...
Use of electrocochleography in the diagnosis of meniere's disease

Objective: The diagnosis of Meniere's disease has always been a source of confusion. There is no single test that is definitive for the diagnosis. Recent advances have enabled clinicians to noninvasively test the function of the inner ear and its associated neural pathways. The electrocochleogram (ECOG) has been advocated as a reliable test that is diagnostic for Meniere's disease. This study was undertaken to assess the value of ECOG in establishing the diagnosis of Meniere's disease. Study Design: Patients who were suspected of having Meniere's disease were prospectively entered into a study of the diagnostic value of ECOG. Each patient had a complete evaluation including a detailed history, physical examination, laboratory studies, and audiometric tests. Setting: University otolaryngology clinic. Patients: A group of 199 patients who presented to a neurotology clinic and were suspected to have symptoms consistent with Meniere's disease. Intervention: ECOG testing. Main Outcome Measures: Audiometric thresholds, action potential magnitude (AP), summating potential amplitude (SP), AP latency, and clinical evaluations were assessed. Results: The ECOG was found to correlate with historical and audiometric criteria that are used to diagnose the disease. The percentage of abnormal ECOG did not correlate with stage of disease or duration of time that symptoms were present. Conclusions: The ECOG has limited value in the diagnosis of Meniere's disease. It appears to correlate with the length of time patients experience symptoms and their audiometric findings. It was not correlated with the number of symptoms that the patient experienced at the time that the study was conducted.
Childhood Cruelty toward Animals among Criminals and Noncriminals

This paper examines the relationship between childhood cruelty toward animals and aggressive behavior among criminals and noncriminals in adulthood.Data were derived from personal interviews with 152 criminals and noncriminals in Kansas and Connecticut. A standardized, closed, and open-ended interview, requiring approximately 1-2 hours to complete, was administered to all subjects. Aggressiveness was defined by behavioral criteria rather than by reason for incarceration.Childhood cruelty toward animals occurred to a significantly greater degree among aggressive criminals than among nonaggressive criminals or noncriminals. Additionally, the occurrence of more than 40 cases of extreme animal crielty facilitated the development of a preliminary classification of nine distinct motivations for animal cruelty. Finally, family violence, particularly paternal abuse and alcoholism, were significantly more common among aggressive criminals with a history of childhood cruelty toward animals.
Game Theoretic Modeling of Jamming Attacks in Ad hoc Networks

The objective of jamming attack in a network is to deny service to the communicating nodes, thus reducing network throughput and availability. In this paper, we propose a game theoretic framework for detecting jamming attacks in wireless ad hoc networks. We formulate jamming as a two- player, non cooperative game to analyze the interaction between attacker and monitoring nodes in the network. We propose hybrid detection strategies at the monitor node using cross-layer features for attack detection. We solve the game by computing the mixed strategy Nash equilibrium and derive optimal attack and detection strategies. Numerical results show that game theoretic analysis can be used to determine optimal steady state monitoring strategies to provide higher detection accuracy, while balancing the monitoring energy costs.
Phase 0 clinical trials: towards a more complete ethics critique

In efforts to modernise the entire drug-development process, making it more efficient, less costly, and ultimately of real benefit to patients, The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) authorised the use of exploratory IND or early Phase I (Phase 0) studies. Quite different in structure from Phase I, II, and III studies, the Phase 0 construct understandably poses a set of ethical problems not seen in the other research phases and so far not adequately addressed by ethicists. In an effort to deal with this deficiency, this paper proposes an ethics critique, based not on the usual concept of benefit, but on the means-end relation, and placed within an ethic of science derived from the practice of science.
Efficient Scheduling of Nested Parallel Loops on Multi-Core Systems

Parallel loops, such as a parallel DO loop, in Fortran, account for large percentage of the total execution time. Given this, we focus on the problem of how to efficiently schedule nested perfect/non-perfect parallel loops on the emerging multi-core systems. In this regard, one of the key aspects is how to determine the profitability of parallel execution and how to efficiently capture the cache behavior as the cache subsystem is often the main performance bottleneck in multi-core systems. In this paper, we present a novel profile-guided compiler technique for cache-aware scheduling of iteration spaces of such loops. Specifically, we propose a technique for iteration space scheduling which captures the effect of variation in the number of cache misses across the iteration space. Subsequently, we propose a general approach to capture the variation of both the number of cache misses and computation across the iteration space. We demonstrate the efficacy of our approach on a dedicated 4-way Intel Xeon based multiprocessor using several kernels from the industry-standard benchmarks.
Controlling translation via modulation of tRNA levels

Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are critical adaptor molecules that carry amino acids to a messenger RNA (mRNA) template during protein synthesis. Although tRNAs have commonly been viewed as abundant 'house-keeping' RNAs, it is becoming increasingly clear that tRNA expression is tightly regulated. Depending on a cell's proliferative status, the pool of active tRNAs is rapidly changed, enabling distinct translational programs to be expressed in differentiated versus proliferating cells. Here, I highlight several post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms that allow the expression or functions of tRNAs to be altered. Modulating the modification status or structural stability of individual tRNAs can cause those specific tRNA transcripts to selectively accumulate or be degraded. Decay generally occurs via the rapid tRNA decay pathway or by the nuclear RNA surveillance machinery. In addition, the CCA-adding enzyme plays a critical role in determining the fate of a tRNA. The post-transcriptional addition of CCA to the 3' ends of stable tRNAs generates the amino acid attachment site, whereas addition of CCACCA to unstable tRNAs prevents aminoacylation and marks the tRNA for degradation. In response to various stresses, tRNAs can accumulate in the nucleus or be further cleaved into small RNAs, some of which inhibit translation. By implementing these various post-transcriptional control mechanisms, cells are able to fine-tune tRNA levels to regulate subsets of mRNAs as well as overall translation rates.
A Trigger Identification Service for Defending Reactive Jammers in WSN

During the last decade, Reactive Jamming Attack has emerged as a great security threat to wireless sensor networks, due to its mass destruction to legitimate sensor communications and difficulty to be disclosed and defended. Considering the specific characteristics of reactive jammer nodes, a new scheme to deactivate them by efficiently identifying all trigger nodes, whose transmissions invoke the jammer nodes, has been proposed and developed. Such a trigger-identification procedure can work as an application-layer service and benefit many existing reactive-jamming defending schemes. In this paper, on the one hand, we leverage several optimization problems to provide a complete trigger-identification service framework for unreliable wireless sensor networks. On the other hand, we provide an improved algorithm with regard to two sophisticated jamming models, in order to enhance its robustness for various network scenarios. Theoretical analysis and simulation results are included to validate the performance of this framework.
A Position Domain Relative RAIM Method

The GNSS Evolutionary Architecture Study (GEAS) Panel has been evaluating future GNSS-based architectures to provide worldwide instrument approach guidance known as LPV-200 in the 2025 to 2030 time frame. One of the architectures being considered by GEAS is based on a new concept called relative receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (RRAIM). In this architecture RRAIM is implemented in aircraft and is used in conjunction with a system like the satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS), possibly with a reduced number of ground reference stations or an integrity-assured GPS III system that meets all LPV-200 requirements except for the integrity time-to-alert (TTA) requirement. RRAIM fills the time gap between the required TTA and the TTA assured by GPS III (or SBAS augmentation) by propagating the most recent integrity-assured position solution to the current time using accumulated carrier phase single differences of range measurements. RRAIM gives significantly higher service availability than can be obtained with stand-alone absolute RAIM (ARAIM). This paper develops a position domain RRAIM method with an optimization scheme that further improves LPV-200 service availability.
Immortalized human bladder cell line exhibits amiloride-sensitive sodium absorption

We have produced a continuous cell line using retroviral transduction of simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen into epithelial cells grown from a cystoscopic bladder biopsy from a female patient w...
Comparison of Periodontal Inflammatory Disease in Young Adults With and Without Pericoronitis Involving Mandibular Third Molars

Purpose To compare the prevalence and severity of periodontal inflammatory disease in subjects with pericoronitis involving a mandibular third molar and those without pericoronitis. Patients and Methods Data obtained from healthy adults consecutively enrolled in an institutional review board-approved trial with pericoronitis affecting at least 1 mandibular third molar (study group) were compared with data obtained during the same time frame from subjects without pericoronitis enrolled in a longitudinal third molar monitoring study (comparison group). The periodontal status of each subject was classified based on periodontal probing depths (PD): all PD Results Median age of the 56 subjects with pericoronitis was 23.3 years (IQR 21.3-26.0 years). Fifty-five percent were Caucasian, 16% African American, and 22% Asian. Males and females were almost equally represented in the study group and in the comparison group. The 194 subjects enrolled without pericoronitis were significantly older (32.8 years; IQR 27.2-40.0 years; P Conclusion Pericoronitis involving mandibular third molars may reflect more underlying periodontal inflammatory disease in affected young adults than might be found in young adults with retained third molars and no pericoronitis.