cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Allergic colitis in preterm infants. 859

Allergic colitis is seen in young infants as a response to sensitization to cow's milk, soy protein or from dietary antigens transmitted through breast milk. The incidence of allergic colitis in full-term infants is estimated to be 0.5 to 1%. Prematurity is one of a number of risk factors identified. Signs and symptoms of allergic colitis can mimic necrotizing enterocolitis(NEC); therefore, allergic colitis may be under-recognized. This entity has received little attention in the literature. Aim: To review our experience of allergic colitis in preterm infants. Methods: We carried out a 7 year retrospective review of all infants less than 37 weeks gestation with allergic colitis identified by sigmoidoscopic biopsy of the colon demonstrating eosinophilia(>20 per high power field, or with intraepithelial eosinophils). Results: From a total of 14 preterm infants who underwent sigmoidoscopy, 7/14 (50%) were diagnosed with allergic colitis, with increased eosinophils on mucosal biopsy. Sigmoidoscopy was well tolerated under conscious sedation; no complications were reported. Gestational age at birth ranged from 24-36 wks; corrected gestational age at diagnosis was 33 to 42 weeks, (median 36 wks). Symptoms included hematochezia(2/7), emesis/feeding intolerance(4/7), feeding aversion(5/7), irritability(3/7), failure to thrive(3/7). One infant presented with diarrhea leading to hypovolemic shock. The majority of infants had received antibiotics and TPN for suspected NEC. After diagnosis symptoms resolved on semi-elemental formula. Conclusions: Allergic colitis occurs in preterm infants, often without characteristic symptoms. Only a minority have gross blood per rectum. Symptoms often mimic NEC or sepsis, leading to unnecessary antibiotic treatment and fasting. Prompt evaluation with sigmoidoscopy and biopsy is well tolerated and allows for early diagnosis and appropriate dietary management.
Powder characteristics and sintering behavior of Ag-doped YBa2Cu3O7-x produced by aerosol decomposition

YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7{minus}{ital x}} (1-2-3) powders and 1-2-3 powders doped with 14 wt. % Ag (AgYBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7{minus}{ital x}}) were produced using aerosol decomposition of nitrate solutions. Powder produced at {ital T}{gt}900 {degree}C consisted of submicron particles, and had {ital T}{sub {ital c}} {approx}92 K in magnetic susceptibility measurements. As-produced Ag-doped powder was a composite of nearly phase-pure 1-2-3 and crystalline Ag (by x-ray diffraction) for reactor temperatures between 900 {degree}C and 950 {degree}C, whereas powder produced at {ital T}{ge}970 {degree}C contained significant amounts of Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} which were not found in 1-2-3 synthesis in the absence of Ag. This implied that the melting of Ag ({similar to}960 {degree}C) or the Ag--O eutectic ({similar to}940 {degree}C) promoted decomposition of 1-2-3 during powder synthesis. Dilatometry showed that 1-2-3 and Ag/1-2-3 powders densified rapidly between 800 {degree}C and 875 {degree}C, achieving nearly 90% of theoretical density after heating to 875 {degree}C at 5 {degree}C/min in air. Pellets of the Ag-doped powder were also sintered for 2--60 h at 895 {degree}C in air. Scanning electron and optical microscopy revealed that Ag grains remained fine and uniformly distributed, varying in size from {similar to}1 {mu}m after 2 h to 3--7 {mu}mmore » after 60 h, while 1-2-3 grains became plate-shaped with thicknesses of 1--5 {mu}m and lengths of 10--30 {mu}m after 60 h. Thus, the use of aerosol Ag/1-2-3 powders allows the use of lower processing temperatures and shorter times to produce dense ceramics with smaller Ag and 1-2-3 grain sizes than can be obtained using solid-state reaction routes.« less
Differential effects of p63 mutants on transactivation of p53 and/or p63 responsive genes.

p63, known to play a role in development, has more recently also been implicated in cancer progression. Mutations in p63 have been shown to be responsible for several human developmental diseases. Differential splicing of the p63 gene gives rise to p63 isoforms, which can act either as tumor suppressors or as oncogene. In this report, we studied the effects of naturally occurring TAp63γ mutants on the regulation of p53/p63 and p63 specific target genes. We observed significant differences among p63 mutants to regulate the p53/p63 and p63 specific target genes. Additionally, we observed a differential effect of p63 mutants on wildtype-p63-mediated induction of p53/p63 and p63 specific target genes. We also demonstrated that these mutants differentially regulate the binding of wildtype p63 to the promoter of target genes. Furthermore, the effects of these mutants on cell death and survival were consistent with their ability to regulate the downstream targets when compared to wildtype TAp63γ. In summary, our data demonstrate that p63 mutants exhibit differential effects on p63 and p53/p63 specific target genes and on the induction of apoptosis, and provide further insight into the function of p63.
Transmitting Pain and Itch Messages: A Contemporary View of the Spinal Cord Circuits that Generate Gate Control

The original formulation of Gate Control Theory (GCT) proposed that the perception of pain produced by spinal cord signaling to the brain depends on a balance of activity generated in large (nonnociceptive)- and small (nociceptive)-diameter primary afferent fibers. The theory proposed that activation of the large-diameter afferent "closes" the gate by engaging a superficial dorsal horn interneuron that inhibits the firing of projection neurons. Activation of the nociceptors "opens" the gate through concomitant excitation of projection neurons and inhibition of the inhibitory interneurons. Sixty years after publication of the GCT, we are faced with an ever-growing list of morphologically and neurochemically distinct spinal cord interneurons. The present Review highlights the complexity of superficial dorsal horn circuitry and addresses the question whether the premises outlined in GCT still have relevance today. By examining the dorsal horn circuits that underlie the transmission of "pain" and "itch" messages, we also address the extent to which labeled lines can be incorporated into a contemporary view of GCT.
Is gene therapy for the treatment of male infertility feasible

This Viewpoint, which is the first of three articles discussing gene therapy for the treatment of male infertility, considers the feasibility of the approach. Boekelheide and Sigman initially describe the genetic causes of male infertility, and go on to discuss gene therapy approaches, and possible future directions.
Historical shifts in the seed mineral micronutrient concentration of US hard red winter wheat germplasm

The yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell) has greatly improved through breeding, but it is not known how this has affected seed micronutrient content. In the present study, the iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and selenium (Se) content of seed of 14 US hard red winter wheat varieties from production eras spanning more than a century was measured. The seed that was analyzed was obtained from a replicated field trial conducted at two locations in Kansas. The Fe, Zn, and Cu content was obtained by inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy (ICPES) and Se content was obtained by hydride-generated atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-AAS). Significant effects of location on micronutrient content of seed were observed. Similarly, depending on the micronutrient, significant differences in seed micronutrient content between varieties were detected at one or both locations. A significant negative regression of seed Zn content on both yield and variety release date was observed at both locations, while seed Fe content exhibited a significant negative regression on yield and variety release date at one location. Regression of seed Se content on variety release date was significant and negative at one location. These results suggest that genetic gains in the yield of US hard red winter wheat have tended to reduce seed Fe, Zn, and Se concentrations. However, the extent to which this effect manifests itself is influenced by environmental effects. Published in 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Pheromone production and mating behaviour by allatectomized males of the cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea

Abstract Males of Nauphoeta cinerea produce a volatile pheromone which attracts the female for mating. Allatectomy of males either 5 days prior to or within 12 hr following the imaginal ecdysis does not impair pheromone production, pheromone release, nor any observable aspect of mating behaviour. It is proposed that in N. cinerea, and in other cockroach species where the male releases a volatile pheromone to attract the female, pheromone production is not controlled by the corpora allata, and pheromone release is under direct motor control.
CO2 reforming reaction assisted with oxygen permeable Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2Ox ceramic membranes

Abstract The CO2 reforming reaction on Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2Ox (BSCF) oxygen permeable membranes was investigated at 800 °C over a Pt/ZrO2 and a Pt/CeZrO2 (17.5 wt% Ce) catalyst. To determine the effect of oxygen flux on the reaction, both dense and asymmetric BCSF membranes were tested. The results showed that the oxygen permeable membrane effectively increased the activity of the catalyst and the conversion of CH4. Furthermore, the asymmetric membrane had higher oxygen flux compared to the dense BCSF membrane. A mechanism involving steam reforming due to the high oxygen flux and formation of water is proposed which is enhanced by the synergistic relationship between the catalyst and the membrane. The BSCF membranes were found to maintain mechanical stability during the reaction. However, a decrease in CH4 conversion as a function of time was observed for both the Pt/ZrO2 and Pt/CeZrO2 catalysts. This decrease is ascribed to a decrease in the oxygen flux caused by carbonate formation on the surface of the permeate side of the membrane.
Diverse magma flow directions during construction of sheeted dike complexes at fast- to superfast-spreading centers

Abstract Dike intrusion is a fundamental process during upper oceanic crustal accretion at fast- to superfast-spreading ridges. Based on the distribution of magma along fast-spreading centers inferred from marine geophysical data, models predict systematic steep flow at magmatically robust segment centers and shallow magma flow toward distal segment ends. Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) fabrics from 48 fully-oriented block samples of dikes from upper oceanic crust exposed at Hess Deep Rift and Pito Deep Rift reveal a wide range of magma flow directions that are not consistent with such simple magma supply models. The AMS is interpreted to arise from distribution anisotropy of titanomagnetite crystals based on weak shape-preferred orientation of opaque oxide and plagioclase crystals generally parallel to AMS maximum eigenvectors. Most dike samples show normal AMS fabrics with maximum eigenvector directions ranging from subvertical to subhorizontal. The distributions of inferred magma flow lineations from maximum eigenvectors show no preferred flow pattern, even after structural correction. We use a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test (KS-test) to show that the distribution of bootstrapped flow lineation rakes from Pito Deep are not statistically distinct from Hess Deep, and neither are distinguishable from Oman and Troodos Ophiolite AMS data. Magma flow directions in sheeted dikes from these two seafloor escarpments also do not correlate with available geochemistry in any systematic way as previously predicted. These results indicate distinct compositional sources feed melt that is injected into dikes at fast- to superfast-spreading ridges with no preference for subhorizontal or subvertical magma flow. Collectively, results imply ephemeral melt lenses at different along-axis locations within the continuous axial magma chamber and either direct injection or intermingling of melt from other deeper ridge-centered or off-axis sources.
A micromechanical theory of grain-size dependence in metal plasticity

Abstract T he effect of grain-size on the elastoplastic behavior of metals is investigated from the micromechanics standpoint. First, based on the observations that dislocation pile-ups, formation of cell structures, and other inelastic activities influenced by the presence of grain boundary actually take place transcrystallinely, a grain-size dependent constitutive equation is proposed for the slip deformation of slip systems. By means of a modified Hill's self-consistent relation the local stress of a grain is calculated, and used in conjunction with this constitutive equation to evaluate the plastic strain of each constituent grain. The grain-size effect on the plastic flow of polycrystals then can be determined by an averaging process. To check the validity of the proposed theory it was finally applied to predict the stress-strain curves and flow stresses of a copper at various grain-sizes. The obtained results were found to be in good agreement with experimental data.
ECG-based frame selection and curvature-based ROI detection for measuring carotid intima-media thickness

Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) has proven to be sensitive for predicting individual risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The CIMT is measured based on region of interest (ROIs) in end-diastolic ultrasound frames (EUFs). To interpret CIMT videos, in the current practice, the EUFs and ROIs must be manually selected, a process that is tedious and time consuming. To reduce CIMT interpretation time, this paper presents a novel method for automatically selecting EUFs and determining ROIs in ultrasound videos. The EUFs are selected based on the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram (ECG) signal associated with the ultrasound video, and the ROI is detected based on image intensity and curvature of the carotid artery bulb. Once a EUF is selected and its corresponding ROI is determined, our system measures CIMT using the snake algorithm extended with hard constraints [1,6-7] by computing the average thickness and maximum thickness, calculating the vascular age, and generating a patient’s report. In this study, we utilize 23 subjects. Each subject has 4 videos, and 3 EUFs are selected in each video, resulting in a total of 272 ROIs. By comparing with the reference provided by an expert for both frame selection and ROI detection, we achieve 92.96% sensitivity and 97.62% specificity for EUF selection, and 81.25% accuracy in ROI detection.
Saturated and mono-unsaturated long-chain hydrocarbon profiles from Citrus unshiu juice sacs

Abstract Six cultivars of satsuma mandarin—Kawano Wase, Owari, Silverhill, Foley, Sugiyama and Nobilis—were examined for content of saturated and mono-unsaturated long-chain hydrocarbons in their juice sacs. Linear hydrocarbons accounted for more than 53% of the saturates and more than 87% of the monoenes. In the saturated fraction the major linear hydrocarbon was C 25 while in the monoene fraction C 25 and C 29 predominated. The ratios of linear/ iso C 23 and C 25 saturates were greater than in other citrus previously investigated. Kawano Wase had profiles quite different from the other cultivars. Foley and Owari can be differentiated from the other cultivars by their linear monoene profiles. Long-chain hydrocarbon profiles intrinsic to the mandarin species, C. unshiu , were compared with profiles of non-mandarin species.
Design optimization of bowtie nanoantenna for high-efficiency thermophotovoltaics

Summary form only given. The field enhancement and a novel matching technique at the terminals of a bowtie nanoantenna are utilized for developing compact, highly efficient, and flexible thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cells. The bowtie antenna is designed for maximum power transfer to an infra-red band (1μm to 2.2μm) of a TPV cell using Indium Gallium Arsenide Antimonide (InGaAsSb). A nano-meter size block of InGaAsSb with a low bandgap energy of ~0.5eV is mounted at the terminal of the antenna. Such load presents a frequency dependent impedance with high resistance and capacitance at the desired frequency (180THz). For maximum power transform a high impedance bowtie antenna operating at the anti-resonance mode in conjunction with an inductive stub is designed. The inductive stub which is implemented by open-ended transmission line with a length of 140nm is used to compensate the high capacitance of the load. The plasmonic behavior of the metal that tends to reduce the antenna size is to some extent compensated with the extra length needed to achieve anti-resonance condition. The proposed nanoantenna loaded with InGaAsSb block shows a field enhancement of order of ~23.5 at its terminal making this design also suitable for development of very sensitive IR detectors.A novel array configuration of the bowtie nanoantennas is presented that allows for collection of DC currents through an almost arbitrary parallel or series configuration of TPV or IR cells without adversely affecting the IR performance of the individual antennas. In this scheme elements can be arranged to be polarization dependent or independent. It is shown that the performance such thin flexible array can supersede the performance TPV cells of thick bulk InGaAsSb having same area.
Crisis, Ethics, and the American Medical Association 1847 and 1997

American medicine in 1997: the core values of the medical profession are being decided, not by physicians and surgeons acting through medical societies, but by lawyers and judges taking action in courtrooms and by managed care administrators overriding the decisions of trained medical professionals in response to the imperatives of commodified medicine. American medicine is in crisis. To put this crisis in perspective, however, consider the state of medicine in the United States 150 years ago. Licensing laws had been repealed as "elitist" and "antidemocratic." 1(pp43 -63) The New York physician Nathan Smith Davis (1817-1904) reported that, in the absence of minimal licensing standards, "The college that offered to confer [an MD] after attendance on the shortest annual courses of instruction and the lowest college fees could generally draw the largest class." 2 Consequently, as Dr Nathaniel Chapman (1780-1853) of Philadelphia remarked, "The too ready admixture into [medicine] of individuals
Electrical properties and far infrared optical conductivity of boron-doped single-walled carbon nanotube films

Here we report a new approach for producing clean and homogeneous boron-doped single-walled carbon nanotubes. This approach combines the homogeneous dispersion of BnOm + ionic molecules over the nanotube surfaces in a liquid solution, with a high temperature chemical reaction that incorporates the boron atoms into the sp2 carbon network of the nanotube wall. A comparative study of sheet resistance versus optical transmission in nanotube network films with and without boron-doping is also presented. Although electron energy loss spectroscopy revealed very low B-doping levels (<1 at.%), the dc conductivity of doped samples was raised by a factor of 3.4. Changes in the free carrier contribution to the optical conductivity of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films induced by boron-doping was also studied via optical transmission in the far-infrared (IR) (50–7000 cm − 1). A Drude model was fitted to the changes in the far-IR conductivity to quantify the additional free carrier concentration induced by the B-doping.
Cardiovascular Biometrics: Combining Mechanical and Electrical Signals

The electrical signal originating from the heart, the electrocardiogram (ECG), has been examined for its potential use as a biometric. Recent ECG studies have shown that an intersession authentication performance $\sim 2$ % EER. Moreover, in the identification mode, with a testing database containing 200 individuals, the rank-1 accuracy improves from $\sim 80$ % for each individual biometric system, to $\sim 92$ % for the multibiometric system. Although there are implementation issues that would need to be resolved before this combined method could be applied in the field, this report establishes the basis and utility of the method in principle, and it identifies effective signal analysis approaches.
A multilevel investigation of motivational cultural intelligence, organizational diversity climate, and cultural sales: evidence from U.S. real estate firms.

Adopting a multilevel theoretical framework, the authors examined how motivational cultural intelli-gence influences individual cultural salesthe number of housing transactions occurring between peopleof different cultural origins. Data from 305 real estate agents employed at 26 real estate firms in theUnited States demonstrated that an individuals motivational cultural intelligence is positively related tohis or her cultural sales. This positive relationship is enhanced by the firms motivational culturalintelligence and diversity climate. The authors discuss the theoretical and practical implications of theirfindings in a workplace context that involves cross-cultural interpersonal interactions.Keywords: motivational cultural intelligence, diversity climate, cultural sales, multilevelGlobalization has many effects, but one of the most important is thedramatic increase in the opportunity and need to interact with peoplewho are culturally different from ourselves. (D. C. Thomas & Inkson,2009, Preface)Diversity is not a fad. Its not an idea of the month. Its central and itslinked very directly to the business strategy. That is the case in greattimes and in more challenging times. (Eric Foss, Chairman and CEOof the Pepsi Bottling Group, 2009, as cited in Holstein, 2009, p. B2).
Air-Fluid Levels in Emphysematous Bullae

Five cases in which air-fluid levels developed in pre-existing bullae have been described. Carcinoma was responsible in two and pyogenic infection, tuberculosis, and congestive heart failure in the others.
Abstract 4397: A TLR4-interacting peptide (SPA4) reduces the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated NF-kappaB signaling, cytokines and migration of colon cancer cells

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Persistent inflammation in patients with colitis can lead to cancer. However, molecular mechanisms responsible for inflammation-induced cancer are not understood. Activation of TLR4-NF-kappaB signaling is associated with inflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that inhibition of TLR4-NF-kappaB signaling will help reduce inflammatory response and inflammation-induced cancer progression. In this work, we studied the effects of a TLR4-interacting surfactant protein-A-derived (SPA4) peptide on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TLR4-NF-kappaB signaling and cancer progression in colon adenocarcinoma SW480 cells. The SW480 cells were challenged with Escherichia coli-derived LPS. Cells were then treated with varying amounts of SPA4 peptide. Any changes in the expression of TLR4, intracellular-signaling molecules (IKBalpha, p65, phosphorylated IKBalpha, phosphorylated p65, RelB, Cox-2) and cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6), and activity of NF-kappaB were studied by immunocytochemistry, immunoblotting and NF-kappaB reporter assay, respectively. Simultaneously, cell cycle progression, viability and migratory pattern of SW480 cells were followed. We found that the binding of SPA4 peptide to TLR4 inhibits the LPS-induced expression of TLR4, phosphorylated p65, Cox-2, IL-1beta and IL-6, activity of NF-kappaB and migration of SW480 cells. Although there was no significant change in cell cycle progression, the SPA4 peptide significantly inhibited the viability of SW480 cells. In conclusion, our preliminary results suggest that the inhibition of TLR4-NF-kappaB signaling by SPA4 peptide may be useful in prevention and treatment of inflammation and inflammation-induced cancer in patients with colitis. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4397. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4397
Chemical modification of active sites in relation to the catalytic mechanism of F1.

Recent studies of chemically modified F1-ATPases have provided new information that requires a revision of our thinking on their catalytic mechanism. One of the β subunits in F1-ATPase is distinguishable from the other two both structurally and functionally. The catalytic site and regulatory site of the same β subunit are probably sufficiently close to each other, and the interaction between the various catalytic and regulatory sites are probably sufficiently strong to raise the uni-site rate of ATP hydrolysis by several orders of magnitude to that of promoted (multi-site) ATP hydrolysis. Although all three β subunits in F1 possess weak uni-site ATPase activity, only one of them (β′) catalyzes promoted ATP hydrolysis. But all three β subunits catalyze ATP synthesis driven by the proton flux. Internal rotation of the α3β3 or β3 moiety relative to the remainder of the F0F1 complex did not occur during oxidative phosphorylation by reconstituted submitochondrial particles.
Behavioral science research: ethical and policy implications

Problems centered about protection of human subjects in behavioral science research are discussed. Difficulties in obtaining truly informed consent are noted. It is concluded that the risks involved to subjects are minimal in this field of research. The use of deception in psychological research is discussed along with the necessity of appropriately debriefing the subject. The use of institutional committees to protect subjects' rights is contrasted with the bureaucratic review processes of the government. It is concluded that, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, the local institutional review process is likely to induce greater cooperation from investigators in protecting subjects' rights.
Understanding the Anthropology of Immigration and Migration

This literature review features the main theoretical frameworks from which modern anthropological immigration and migration studies have been conducted. It was not until the 1950s and 1960s that immigration/migration became a high-priority area for anthropologists when they noted the high rate of rural-to-urban migration, particularly in Africa and Latin America. In featuring the processes of immigration and migration, this review highlights the major neo-classical theories related to dependency, world systems, and articulation and the transnational theories related to diaspora, border, and feminist perspectives. Anthropologists have made significant contributions to the interdisciplinary field of migration studies. The review concludes with implications for understanding human behavior and the social environment within the context of immigration and migration.
Blueprint Photography by the Cyanotype Process

This activity demonstrates catalysis of chemical reactions by ultraviolet (UV) light using one of the earliest photographic processes, the cyanotype process. The photographic paper for cyanotype photography is easily prepared in the classroom, giving students the opportunity to see that the photographic image is a result of chemical treatment of ordinary drawing paper. The sensitized paper can be handled in visible light. The image is produced by exposure to UV light from direct sunlight or fluorescent black lights.
Calibration and performance of a stirred benthic chamber

Abstract The physical and chemical boundary layer parameters characteristic for a benthic chamber were cross-calibrated by the use of two methods in the laboratory: (1) flush-mounted hot-film sensors, which measure the friction velocity u ∗ , and (2) the alabaster dissolution technique, which measures the equivalent film thickness z. Tests of five stirring devices were made, using both techniques, to improve the stirring mechanism in the MANOP Lander flux chambers. The stirring device that was finally implemented consisted of four rods and produced spatially averaged friction velocities u ∗ ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 cm s−1 (i.e. mean film thickness z from 500 to 180 μm) when running at speeds from 3 to 9 rpm. The friction velocity field at the sediment surface is related to the rpm of the stirring device and the penetration depth of the chamber into the sediments; combinations of both can create z and u ∗ inside the chamber that duplicate those of many natural environments. The log-log calibration relationship found between u ∗ and transfer coefficients K′ also provides a means to predict the mass-transfer resistance of solutes at the sediment-water interface from measurements of mean bottom stress.
Kinetic and physical evidence that the diheme enzyme MauG tightly binds to a biosynthetic precursor of methylamine dehydrogenase with incompletely formed tryptophan tryptophylquinone.

ABSTRACT : Methylamine dehydrogenase (MADH) contains the protein-derived cofactor tryptophantryptophylquinone (TTQ) which is generated by the posttranslational modiﬁcation of two endogenoustryptophan residues. The modiﬁcations are incorporation of two oxygens into one tryptophan side chainand the covalent cross-linking of that side chain to a second tryptophan residue. This process requires atleast one accessory gene, mauG . Inactivation of mauG in vivo results in production of an inactive 119kDa tetrameric R 2 2 protein precursor of MADH with incompletely synthesized TTQ. This precursor canbe converted to active MADH with mature TTQ in vitro by reaction with MauG, a 42 kDa diheme enzyme.Steady-state kinetic analysis of the MauG-dependent conversion of the precursor to mature MADH withcompletely synthesized TTQ yielded values of k cat of 0.20 ( 0.01 s -1 and K m of 6.6 ( 0.6 µ M for thebiosynthetic precursor protein in an in vitro assay. In the absence of an electron donor to initiate thereaction it was possible to isolate the MauG-biosynthetic precursor (enzyme–substrate) complex in solutionusing high-resolution size-exclusion chromatography. This stable complex is noncovalent and could beseparated into its component proteins by anion-exchange chromatography. In contrast to the enzyme–substrate complex, a mixture of MauG and its reaction product, mature MADH, did not elute as a complexduring size-exclusion chromatography. The differential binding of MauG to its protein substrate and proteinproduct of the reaction indicates that signiﬁcant conformational changes in one or both of the proteinsoccur during catalysis which signiﬁcantly affects the protein–protein interactions.Methylamine dehydrogenase (MADH)
Mesh generation for the computation of flowfields over complex aerodynamic shapes

Methods are presented for generating both structured and unstructured meshes about three dimensional shapes. Results for both approaches are shown and their strengths and weaknesses are compared. For relatively simple configurations, such as wing/body combinations, a structured mesh is the preferred approach. For a complete aircraft, however, structured meshes lack the necessary flexibility, but unstructured meshes do offer the opportunity to treat completely general configurations with relative ease.
Inflammation versus Host Defense in Obesity

Obesity is characterized by a state of low-grade, chronic inflammation. Wang et al. (2014) report that immune cells from obese mice have decreased production of IL-22, a cytokine involved in immune responses and inflammation, and reveal therapeutic effects of exogenous IL-22 against obesity-linked metabolic dysfunctions.
Sediment identification using free fall penetrometer acceleration-time histories

Knowledge of physical properties of near-surface sediments is an important requirement for many studies of the seafloor. Dynamic or Free Fall Penetrometers (FFP), instrumented with accelerometers, are widely used to assess the mechanical properties of the sediment by deriving penetration resistance from the deceleration response of the probe as it impacts and embeds the seabed. Other field investigations, a priori knowledge or a very basic description of the type of sediment (such as a description of the sediment as soft, medium or hard) derived from studying the deceleration response (accelerometer-time histories) are used for sediment identification prior to the application of an appropriate strength determination model. In many cases this information is site-specific and in others the penetration resistance is overestimated due to the dilatory effects observed in sediment with an undetected grain fraction. In this study variables affecting a dynamic penetrometer-sediment interaction system are identified. Using data from field investigations and literature we found a relationship among five variables: peak acceleration, embedment depth, total embedment time, velocity of impact and grain size. This is used to formulate a sediment identification model. The model accounts for variables that may vary widely within one deployment and it can be applied to other FFPs with different physical characteristics (such as a different mass or size). This may lead to the increased use of FFP as a deployment tool for rapid in situ characterization of the seafloor.
Ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death

Summary Management strategies for ventricular arrhythmias are guided by the risk of sudden death and severity of symptoms. Patients with a substantial risk of sudden death usually need an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Although ICDs effectively end most episodes of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation and decrease mortality in specific populations of patients, they have inherent risks and limitations. Generally, antiarrhythmic drugs do not provide sufficient protection from sudden death, but do have a role in reducing arrhythmias that cause symptoms. Catheter ablation is likewise important for reducing the frequency of spontaneous arrhythmias and is curative for some patients, usually those with idiopathic arrhythmias and no heart disease. Arrhythmia surgery is now infrequent, offered by only a few specialised centres for refractory arrhythmias. Advances in understanding of genetic arrhythmia syndromes and in technology for mapping and ablation of ventricular arrhythmias, and enhanced algorithms in implantable devices for rhythm management, have contributed to improved outcomes.
Drug interactions of HIV protease inhibitors.

All the currently available protease inhibitors are metabolised by the cyto-chrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system. All are inhibitors of CYP3A4, ranging from weak inhibition for saquinavir to very potent inhibition for ritonavir. Thus, they are predicted to have numerous drug interactions, although few such interactions have actually been documented either in pharmacokinetic studies or in clinical reports. This article reviews the published literature with an emphasis on the magnitude of interactions and on practical recommendations for management.
Power distribution and symmetry in lens systems

Two parameters for quantifying optical power distribution and lens symmetry are proposed as a tool to aid the lens designer in the search of optimum configurations. © 1998 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumenta- tion Engineers. (S0091-3286(98)02903-1)
New satellite derived sea ice motion tracks Arctic contamination

Sea ice has been reported to contain contaminants from atmospheric and nearshore sediment resuspension processes. In this study successive passive microwave images from the 85.5 GHz channels on the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) were merged with drifting buoy trajectories from the International Arctic Buoy Program to compute Arctic sea ice motion in the Russian Arctic between 1988 and 1994. Smooth daily motion fields were averaged to prepare monthly maps making it possible to compute the 7-year mean and mean seasonal ice motions as well as principal components of directional variability of sea ice motion for the entire Arctic and surrounding basins. These mean motion vectors are used to simulate the advection of contaminants deposited on or contained within the sea ice and subsequently transported into the Arctic Ocean in order to predict both their mean trajectories and dispersal over time. The 3-year displacement of contaminants from a number of Russian sites and one American site display various behaviours from substantial displacement and dispersal to almost no movement. This computational procedure could be applied to realtime SSM/I and ice buoy data to provide detailed, all-weather, vector motion maps of ice circulation to predict the path and dispersal of any new substance introduced to the sea ice and transported into the Arctic or Antarctic ocean surface.
Interpretation of hydraulic rock types with resistivity logs in Tertiary deepwater turbidite reservoirs: Pore-scale modeling verified with field observations in the Gulf of Mexico, USA

Well-log-based hydraulic rock typing is critical in deepwater reservoir description and modeling. Resistivity logs are often used for hydraulic rock typing due to their high sensitivity to rock textural attributes such as porosity and tortuosity. However, resistivity logs measured at different water saturation conditions need to be cautiously used for hydraulic rock typing because, by definition, the properties of hydraulic rock types (HRT) are independent of fluid saturation. We compare theoretical models of electrical and hydraulic conductivity of clastic rocks exhibiting different pore-size distributions and originating from different sedimentary grain sizes. When rocks exhibiting similar porosity ranges are fully saturated with high-salinity water, hydraulic conductivity is dominantly controlled by characteristic pore size while electrical conductivity is only marginally affected by the characteristic pore size. As a result, rock types with similar porosity but different characteristic pore sizes cannot be effectively differentiated with resistivity logs in a water-bearing zone. In a hydrocarbon-bearing zone at irreducible water saturation, capillary pressure gives rise to specific desaturation behaviors in different rock types during hydrocarbon migration, thereby causing differentiable resistivity log attributes that are suitable for classifying HRT. Core data and well logs acquired from a deep-drilling exploration well penetrating Tertiary turbidite oil reservoirs in the Gulf of Mexico, verify that inclusion of resistivity logs in the rock classification workflow can significantly improve the accuracy of hydraulic rock typing in zones at irreducible water saturation. Classification results exhibit a good agreement with those obtained from nuclear magnetic resonance logs, but have relatively lower vertical resolution. The detected and ranked HRT exhibit different grain-size distributions, which provide useful information for sedimentary facies analysis.
Suppressor cell function in man: evidence for altered sensitivity of responder cells with age.

Abstract Concanavalin A (Con A)-activated suppressor cell function was evaluated in young and elderly adult human donors. Activated suppressor cells reduced the mitogenic response of autologous peripheral blood lymphocytes more markedly in elderly than in young adults (60.2 ± 4.8 vs 35.3 ± 8.9%, P
US Fusion Reactor Technology Program

Abstract An outline of the current status and future strategy of the US Fusion Reactor Technology Program is presented.
Integrating Simulation in Surgery as a Teaching Tool and Credentialing Standard

The time-honored training methods of surgery are rapidly being replaced with new teaching tools that are being integrated into residency and recredentialing standards. Numerous factors including societal, professional, and legal have all forced surgical training programs to seek alternative methods of training residents. Learning theories that have provided the basis for open surgical skills training have been modified and culminated in the theory of automaticity and the “pretrained” laparoscopic novice. A vast array of simulators exist for training, ranging from inanimate video trainers, human patient simulators, to more recently virtual reality (VR) computer-based trainers. Currently, inanimate trainers are deployed widely throughout surgical training programs and serve as the primary platform for laparoscopic skills training. As technology evolves, VR systems have become available, allowing for more complex skills training with realistic computer-generated anatomic structures. Using the theories of crisis management and crew resource management, simulation is moving from simple skills training to whole-team training in mock operating room environments. Looking to the near future, medical training will continue to evolve to meet the changing demands of society and professional responsibility to ensure patient safety. With the advent of accredited skills-training centers endorsed by the American College of Surgeons, simulation will be the catalyst for these continuing changes.
Pickup Ion Dynamics at the Heliospheric Termination Shock Observed by Voyager 2

The recent Voyager 2 (V2) observations of the termination shock (TS) indicate that it is a plasma shock unlike any other in the heliosphere with the dynamics and structure heavily influenced by the presence of an energized population of pickup ions (PUIs). The unexpected finding of cold plasma downstream of the TS in the heliosheath, corresponding to very little heating of the thermal solar wind (SW), suggests that the energy dissipated by the shock is dominated by the energization of PUIs at the TS. We examine the shock surfing mechanism at the test particle level, where multiply reflected ions (MRIs) gain energy from the motional electric field as a consequence of reflection from the cross-shock potential (CSP), for a model of the TS3 (the third TS crossing measured by V2). The energization of PUI filled-shell distributions at a stationary, perpendicular model of the TS3 indicates that shock surfing can provide both substantial PUI acceleration and a dissipation mechanism at the TS. For a sufficiently strong CSP and sufficiently narrow shock ramp MRI acceleration can account for the missing energy of the downstream SW plasma.
Effect of alloying elements on the physicomechanical properties of copper and tin bronze

The effect of alloying elements (Al, Si, Mn, Zn, Ni, As) on the physicomechanical properties of copper and tin bronze (6 wt % Sn) is studied. These alloying elements are found to increase the hardness and the microhardness of the structural constituents of Cu-X alloys due to hardening the α solid solution and eutectoid, and this effect of alloying elements is most effective in tin bronze. Alloyed copper and tin bronze have a lower thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance as compared to plain copper and tin bronze.
Comparison of bleomycin A2 and talisomycin A specific fragmentation of linear duplex DNA.

Abstract The fragmentation of Hind III digested PM2 DNA by treatment with bleomycin and talisomycin has been compared. As observed by electrophoresis on agarose gels, the ethidium bromide staining band patterns produced following incubation of the Hind III PM2 DNA with the drugs differed for bleomycin and talisomycin. These results show that in this system bleomycin and talisomycin treatment of PM2 DNA resulted in breakage of DNA producing different length DNA fragments and may indicate different site specificities for the two drugs.
Purification and properties of a homodimeric protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase from Rhizobium leguminosarum

Protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase has been purified 100-fold from 4-hydroxybenzoate grown cells of Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viceae. The purification yielded a homogeneous preparation with specific activity of 321 Units · mg-1 protein. The molecular weight of the homodimeric native protein was 120,000, with subunit molecular weight of 62,000. The optimum pH for catalytic activity was 9.5 and the K m for protocatechuate was 20 μM. Physical and catalytic properties of the R. leguminosarum protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase were different from the published characteristics of isofunctional enzymes from Pseudomonas paucimobilis and Comamonas testosteroni.
On the mechanism of control of photosynthetic electron transport by phosphorylation.

It is well established that photosynthetic electron transport can be coupled to energy-requiring reactions such as the phosphorylation of ADP such that the coupling mechanism controls the rate of electron flux. The explanations of this lowering of the electron transport rate which are most commonly encountered deal with the well-documented acidification of the thylakoid’s inner aqueous phase due to electron transport-dependent hydrogen ion accumulations. Thus Rumberg and Siggel [l] suggested that the rate of electron flow is controlled by the effect of internal acidification on the rate of plastohydroquinone oxidation. Bamberger et al. [2] suggested a somewhat more complex dependence of electron transport on the size of the transmembrane pH gradient and the pH of the membrane itself, both of which are combined functions of the internal and external pH values. Bamberger et al. also feel that control is exerted close to photosystem II. A more complete listing of works dealing with the question of electron transport ‘control’ is provided in a recent review by Trebst [3]. One feature which is common to all previous models of photosynthetic electron transport control is the role of the proton activity in the thylakoid’s inner aqueous phase. In this communication we present data which suggest that the pH of the inner aqueous phase has nothing whatever to do with the primary control of electron transport. Recently in this laboratory we have been investigating the characteristics of photo-
ERODING MARKET IMPERFECTIONS, REINTERMEDIATION, AND DISINTERMEDIATION

In this paper a search model of a financial market, generalized to include costly contracting, is employed to demonstrate that: (i) relative cost efficiency for an intermediary is not sufficient to explain a role for intermediation services, and (ii) eroding market imperfections do not produce hypothesized effects on “reintermediation” from traditional depository-type intermediaries to brokerage-type intermediaries and on “disintermediation” from indirect financing to direct financing under a set of justifiable assumptions.
A model of majority voting and growth in government expenditure

In this paper I have developed a mostly new graphical technique for analyzing government expenditure and, particularly, for analyzing how expenditure grows. The analysis assumes that government has the power to set agendas that are straight lines in the space of issues, and that voters choose majority voting equilibria, given these agendas. Government knows individual preferences, and with this knowledge it tailors the agendas so as to maximize the total levels of expenditure of the resulting majority voting equilibria. The process repeats itself, there may be a new agenda and a new vote every year (or whatever period is used), and the process may go on forever. The important results are: If there are two issues, and if preferences remain constant, the process should converge to a point in the issue space that is stable in the sense that the government's optimum agenda will induce voters to vote down other points allowed by the agenda. If there are three or more issues, and if preferences remain constant, the sequence of points {x k} may not converge. However, the increment in total government expenditure δe k will approach zero. If preferences shift, there is a ratchet effect. That is, changes in people's bliss points will generally cause total expenditure to rise, but will never cause it to fall. If bliss points shift out, and then return to their original positions, total expenditure will shift out, and then shift out again. If new voters are enfranchised, total expenditure levels will either remain the same, or rise. If the new voters have bliss points near the origin, or are ‘low spenders,’ total expenditure levels will rise slightly. If the new voters have bliss points near the iso-expenditure line through the reigning stable equilibrium, total expenditure may rise very sharply. If voters are disenfranchised, or leave a jurisdiction, total expenditure levels will either remain the same, or rise. If voters migrate from one jurisdiction to another, total expenditure levels will generally rise in both jurisdictions.