cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel bifunctional peptides as opioid agonists and NK-1 antagonists.

Introduction Inadequate treatment of pain is an important and urgent problem, which needs to be addressed. Opiates are still the drugs of choice for the treatment of moderate to severe acute pain; however their use are generally accompanied by undesired side effects like analgesic tolerance. Several pharmacological studies have suggested the role of substance P, in pain transmission [1]. It has been observed that coadministration of neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists and opioid agonists augmented the acute effects of opioids and also prevented opioid induced tolerance [2]. In view of these and other observations we have designed novel bifunctional peptides with mixed opioid μ/δ agonist activity and neurokinin-1 antagonist activity [3]. Earlier reports of molecules with opioid μ/δ agonist activity and neurokinin-1 antagonist activity did not have balanced activity at both the receptor’s systems [4]. In our studies the opioid pharmacophore chosen has the sequence H-Tyr-DAla-Gly-Phe which is a substructure of biphalin, a highly potent agonist at both δ and μ opioid receptors [5]. A 3,5-(bistrifluoromethyl) benzyl ester of N-acylated tryptophans was chosen as the NK1 pharmacophore [6]. These two pharmacophores were combined with amino acids acting as possible address moieties they could be part of the two pharmacophores. Sequences of some of the bifunctional peptides synthesized are represented below (Fig. 1)
REV-cycle: A MATLAB-based tool for large-data analysis of real-life driving cycles for electric vehicles

Electric vehicles are increasingly being adopted due to environmental awareness and competitive technical performance and reducing prices. Their research and development has sometimes relied on the use of standard driving cycles. However, these cycles cannot reproduce the variations of traffic flow in real world. That is why in this paper we develop a software tool able to analyze real-life driving cycles for electric vehicles. To do so, a driving trajectory process tool is used to obtain large data for vehicles driving in the same stretch of highway. To show the performance of the developed tool, sample cycles are analyzed and simulated for electric vehicles automatically in the REV-Cycle (Real Electric Vehicle Cycle analyzer) software presented.
Hydrodynamically induced preform deformation

Large pressure gradients developed in high-speed liquid composite molding may produce hydrodynamically induced preform deformation. Such deformation away from the mold wall is expected to open new flow channels, creating edge effects and rendering mold filling calculations based on Darcy's law inaccurate. A simple model is proposed to assess the conditions where preform deformation is expected to play a dominant role during mold filling. The model includes preform material properties such as stiffness, permeability, and clamping pressure, as well as the process injection pressure and the mold geometry. The utility of the model is illustrated for two reinforcement materials, a random mat and a 3-dimensional woven fabric.
Rhythmic Banding in Protoplasm

1. The bathing of the protoplasm of slime molds in various salts and acids, or the injection of these into protoplasm, brings about the formation of rhythmic bands through the precipitation of protoplasmic proteins.2. Both the hydrogen ion and the ions of heavy metals produce banded precipitates in protoplasm. 3. The periodic precipitation of concentric rings in protoplasm bears a striking resemblance to the Liesegang phenomenon.4. The more rapid entrance of solutes at certain restricted and isolated points of the plasmodium indicates pronounced differentiation in the permeability of the surface.
Using Propensity Score Analysis for Making Causal Claims in Research Articles

The central role of the propensity score analysis (PSA) in observational studies is for causal inference; as such, PSA is often used for making causal claims in research articles. However, there are still some issues for researchers to consider when making claims of causality using PSA results. This summary first briefly reviews PSA, followed by discussions of its effectiveness and limitations. Finally, a guideline of how to address these concerns is also provided for researchers to make appropriate causal claims using PSA results in their research articles.
Reactions of weak organic acids with oxygen atoms on Ag(100): Facile and selective conversion of cyclohexene to benzene

Abstract The reactions of cyclohexene with atomically adsorbed oxygen on Ag(100) have been examined by both temperature programmed reaction mass spectrometry and electron energy loss vibrational spectroscopy. Cyclohexene reacts with adsorbed oxygen atoms to form benzene and surface hydroxyl groups, with benzene formation complete by 200 K, as evidenced by the vibrational spectra. Benzene formed from cyclohexene dehydrogenation remains chemisorbed on the silver surface until 275 K, when it desorbs. Surface hydroxyls undergo disproportionation at 300 K to form gaseous water and chemisorbed oxygen atoms. Competing with benzene formation is another reaction pathway which leads to cyclohexene combustion. Vibrational spectroscopy indicates that a key intermediate on the pathway to cyclohexene contains an intact C-O bond.
An alternative to ITS, a hypervariable, single-copy nuclear intron in corals, and its use in detecting cryptic species within the octocoral genus Carijoa

Here we report a highly variable nuclear marker that can be used for both soft and stony corals. Primers that amplify a ∼177 bp fragment from the nuclear gene encoding the 54 kDa subunit of the signal recognition particle (SRP54) were developed for the octocoral genus Carijoa. Cloning results from 141 individuals suggest that this hypervariable nuclear locus is a single-copy gene. Sequencing revealed a potential cryptic species previously thought to be Carijoa riisei. Results from an Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) explained 33% of the variation (Fst = 0.54). Using previously reported degenerate primers for SRP54, high levels of sequence variation were found at this locus across both scleractinian and octocorals. For example, pairwise sequence divergence within octocorals was ∼8–13 times greater with SRP54 than with mtDNA, and, up to 2.8% pairwise sequence divergence was found in SRP54 among individuals of Pocillopora whereas no variation at all was found in mtDNA markers. This case study with the octocoral C. riisei shows that variation in SRP54 appears sufficient to address questions of phylogeography as well as systematics of closely related species.
Management In A Government Laboratory: A Case Study

This paper is a case study of a research project in a government laboratory. It follows a protagonist through the inception, selling, and performance of a new field of research. A theoretical framework suggests how the case might be analyzed. The author's conclusion is that managers should establish thresholds at which corrective action is taken, rather than moving with small steps to failure.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Identification of three genetically distinct collagens by cyanogen bromide cleavage of insoluble human skin and cartilage collagen.

Abstract Cyanogen bromide cleavage of insoluble newborn human skin and cartilage in 70% formic acid liberates in good yield peptides derived from collagen. Characterization of these peptides and comparison with those previously derived from soluble human skin collagen permit the identification of an additional type of collagen in skin and yet another type in cartilage. The results further indicate that the new types of collagen are comprised of chains homologous to the α1 chain of soluble human skin collagen.
A global view of air–sea thermal coupling and related non-Gaussian SST variability

Abstract Two recent studies of observed sea surface temperature (SST) variations have provided striking evidence that their non-Gaussian statistics can be understood within the context of linear stochastically forced models in which the amplitude of the noise forcing depends linearly on the SST. One study is based on a general 1-d Langevin model, whereas the other considers an explicitly coupled 2-d model of SST and local surface air temperature, and emphasizes the crucial role of thermal air–sea coupling in generating the non-Gaussian statistics. It is shown here that these studies are not necessarily mutually inconsistent. In particular, it is shown that the 1-d model can be derived from the 2-d model as a special case, in which the air temperature is approximated as comprising a part linearly dependent on SST plus a pure noise part. This version of the 1-d model, however, can only predict positive SST skew given the observed thermal damping and coupling constants over the globe. The fact that the more general 1-d model can also capture the essence of the local SST dynamics in regions of negative SST skew therefore implies that other physical mechanisms not included in simple local thermally coupled models, such as stochasticity in oceanic heat transports, may also be important in those regions.
Sucrose gradient analysis of phospholipid-activated β-glucosidase in type 1 and type 2 Gaucher's disease

Abstract Using sucrose density gradients, differences in delipidated lysosomal β-glucosidase isolated from control spleen and spleen from patients with nonneurologic (type 1) and neurologic (type 2) Gaucher's disease have been examined. The three enzymes differ in sedimentation properties as well as in their responsiveness to activation by phosphatidylserine and heat-stable factor. The control β-glucosidase sedimented as an apparent 45,000-Da species whose activity was dependent upon the inclusion of exogenous sodium taurodeoxycholate in the assay medium. Preincubation with a mixture of phosphatidylserine and heat-stable factor converted the control enzyme to a faster-sedimenting form which exhibited considerable activity in the absence of exogenous bile salt. Spleen β-glucosidase from a patient with type 1 Gaucher's disease exhibited an apparent molecular weight of 154,000 on sucrose gradients. Like the control enzyme, the activity of this form was bile salt dependent. Upon preincubation with phosphatidylserine and heat-stable factor, β-glucosidase from the type 1 case was also converted to a faster-sedimenting form which was more active in the absence of sodium taurodeoxycholate than in the presence of the bile salt. Spleen β-glucosidase from the patient with type 2 Gaucher's disease sedimented as a broad peak of activity in the most dense regions of the sucrose gradients, appearing to be much larger than the β-glucosidase from either the control or the type 1 Gaucher's disease patient. The activity of this large species was strongly dependent upon bile salt, and was not affected by preincubation of the enzyme with phosphatidylserine and heat-stable factor. Using the chaotropic salt, sodium thiocyanate (0.15 m ), the spleen β-glucosidase isolated from the type 1 Gaucher's disease case was converted to a slower-sedimenting species. The control enzyme sedimented slightly farther into the sucrose gradients upon treatment with the NaSCN. Thiocyanate treatment had no effect on the spleen β-glucosidase isolated from the case of type 2 Gaucher's disease.
Evaluation for EAPSM life time by ArF pellicle characteristic

As the nano-lithography technology continues to develop towards advanced generation of ArF immersion lithography, the quality of ArF EAPSM becomes the most valuable factor for worldwide Maskshop. Therefore outturn of ArF EAPMS increase continuously, and people who work in the fields of semiconductor engineering give consequence to good quality of ArF EAPSM until the EUV lithography generation. Because 300mm wafer litho-facility use higher exposure energy, wider shot field and more shots per a wafer for achieving more memory(DRAM or Flash) chips than 200mm exposure facility, photo engineer wants unchanged initial condition of mask quality(CD MTT, CD Uniformity, repeating defect, phase shift and transmittance). In other words, mask manufacturer must focus on the concept of ArF EAPSM 'life time'. We have investigated the influence grade inducing the lithographic variation between the growth of exposure energy based Haze phenomena, thin organic pellicle membrane characteristics, and we have verified that the ArF pellicle durability is one of the most important evidence for improvement of life time of ArF EAPSM. In this study, related with ArF EAPSM life time, we tried to evaluate the influence of ArF pellicle characteristic consisting of pellicle membrane transmittance strength (durability against ArF laser source) and non acid mask condition for the period of non Haze contamination without added re-pellicle → re-cleaning cycle. Metrological inspection and evaluation was conducted with several equipment and analysis including mask inspection, Scatterometer, IC, ArF laser accelerator.
Effect of Mean Pressure Levels on the Dynamic Response Characteristics of the Carotid Sinus Baroceptor Process in Dog

The purpose of this investigation was to delineate the effect of imposed mean pressure levels on the open-loop dynamic response characteristics of the carotid sinus baroceptors in dogs. The experimental design consisted of measuring the intrasinus pressure and the gross baroceptor nerve activity while forcing the isolated sinus with sinusoidal pulse pressures, with peak-to-peak amplitude of 50 mm Hg, superimposed on mean pressures of 75, 125, 175, and 225 mm Hg at frequencies of 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 15 and 20 Hz. With this forcing protocol, we were able to divide the traditional sigmoidal pressurenerve activity relationship into three piecewise linear segments whose input-output (transfer) functions could then be determined by conventional linear system analysis. We found that (a) at each mean pressure level, the transfer function relating nerve activity, N(s), to forcing pressure, P(s), was second order and of the form, N(s)/P(s) = ?(1 + ss + ?s 2 ), and (b) the coefficients ?, s, and ? were all quadratic functions of the mean pressure level, P? Incorporating the equations for each coefficient as a function of mean pressure into the transfer function yielded the nonlinear differential equation, N(t) = k?(P?) [(P(t) - P?) + s(P?) (dp(t)/dt) + ?(P?) (d 2 P(t)/dt 2 )], which describes the dynamic response of the carotid sinus baroceptor nerve, N(t), over the entire pressure range, P(t), studied.
Remarks Made During “Dialogue on Intellectual Diversity,” a Forum Held 11 October 2007 at the University of Missouri–St. Louis

In 2006, a bill was submitted in the Missouri Legislature designed to address issues raised during a lawsuit by a Missouri State University social work student contesting requirements that Missouri public colleges and universities take steps to insure tolerance of diverse perspectives in the classroom and on campus. Although the legislation did not pass, it motivated university administrators among other measures to sponsor a forum on “intellectual diversity,” held on 11 October 2007 on the University of Missouri–St. Louis campus. In his remarks as a faculty panelist, J. Martin Rochester makes five distinct points about the realities and pitfalls of regulating tolerance and the true meaning of diversity on a college campus.
Sequential Stagnation of Kamb Ice Stream, West Antarctica

[1] Ice-penetrating radar data confirm the presence of two relict northern margins of Kamb Ice Stream (KIS), West Antarctica in an area called the Duckfoot. Between the two relict margins, deep layers are preserved and buried crevasses remain at a constant depth until roughly 1.5 km from the innermost (youngest) margin suggesting that this outer portion of the ice stream stagnated suddenly (<10 years). Stagnation was likely accomplished through changes in basal conditions (i.e., reduced lubrication) beneath this outer portion of the ice stream and resulted in a narrowing of the ice stream trunk by 27% and a reduction in flow speed ∼200 years prior to complete stagnation. Flowstripe deformation as a result of Duckfoot stagnation provides an estimate of KIS paleo-velocity of 210 m/a after Duckfoot stagnation.
Meeting the Needs at the National Level for Genetic Evaluation and Health Monitoring

Abstract National dairy data can contribute to improved management decisions. Animals can be ranked nationally for selection decisions, and success of various management practices and environments in supporting profitable production and in minimizing disease incidence can be determined. Baseline information is useful for analyzing farm business status. Genetic evaluations depend on accurate recording of parentage, production, and environmental factors. Epidemiological data should be representative of the entire population. Data collection can be accomplished through periodic contribution of producer records to a central site or by national record keeping through service agencies. In addition to DHIA supervisors, who presently collect most dairy data, consultants and veterinarians also should contribute information. Surveys may be needed for some health and financial data. Collection of data from many sources can be made efficient by standardizing formats for data exchange. Present processing power of personal computers and availability of electronic linkages enable on-farm record processing. Regional processing centers could emphasize accumulation of national summary data and development and support of on-farm systems. With appropriate organization, the cost of contributing on-farm information to a national database should be small. Resulting management, genetic, and health information provided to the dairy industry should provide benefits sufficient to motivate financial and time investments by dairy producers.
Kinetic and thermodynamic characterization of the reaction catalyzed by a polynucleotide kinase ribozyme.

We have previously isolated a series of ribozymes with polynucleotide kinase activity [Lorsch, J.R., & Szostak, J.W. (1994) Nature 371, 31-36]. In order to learn how such newly evolved RNAs effect catalysis, we have determined a number of the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters for the reaction catalyzed by one of these ribozymes. This ribozyme, a class I polynucleotide kinase, catalyzes the transfer of the gamma-(thio)phosphate from ATP(-gamma S) to the 5'-hydroxyl of a 7-mer oligoribonucleotide. The kcat for the reaction with ATP-gamma S is 0.17 min-1 with a Km of approximately 3 mM. The Km for the oligoribonucleotide substrate 5'-HO-GGAACCU-3' is 2 microM, the same as the Kd for this substrate in the presence or absence of ATP-gamma S. Neither the binding of substrates nor the release of products is the rate-limiting step of the reaction. The binding of substrates and release of products appear to occur in a random fashion, with no synergy of binding between the ATP(-gamma S) and oligoribonucleotide substrates. The ribozyme binds the oligoribonucleotide substrate no more strongly than would be expected for the formation of a simple RNA-RNA duplex, suggesting that there are no tertiary contacts between the ribozyme and the RNA substrate. The oligoribonucleotide substrate binding site has been located, and the sequence specificity of the ribozyme could be altered by mutating this binding site. The ribozyme is specific for adenosine triphosphate substrates; GTP-gamma S reacts approximately 650-fold slower than ATP-gamma S. With ATP as the substrate, the Kms remain unchanged, but kcat decreases by a factor of 50, consistent with a rate-limiting chemical step occurring through a dissociative transition state. The pH independence (from pH 5.5 to 8.5) of kcat/Km and of the rate constant for the conversion of the ternary substrate complex into the ternary products complex is also consistent with a dissociative phosphoryl transfer mechanism. These results suggest that this newly evolved catalyst operates in a relatively simple manner, with independent substrate binding sites and without changing the mechanism of the underlying chemical reaction.
Anomalous muscles of the first dorsal compartment of the wrist

Abstract Exertion-induced pain and swelling in the distal forearm and radial aspect of the wrist were seen in two patients. Exploration revealed an anomalous muscle belly extending into the first dorsal compartment in both cases—an anomaly that we believe has not been previously reported. Surgical release of the compartment resulted in complete relief of pain in both patients.
The embrittling effects of hydrogen on a variety of inorganic materials as indicated by acoustic emission

The embrittling effects of hydrogen-bearing environments which were previously shown in detail for a few selected materials, are reported here for a wide variety of inorganic solids including glasses, ceramics, single crystal minerals, rocks, refractory coatings, semiconductors, and metals. Prior work showed the hydrogen effect using several quite different techniques and environments. The measurements for the present survey were restricted to acoustic emission amplitude distributions during drilling under carbon tetrachloride (a hydrogen-free liquid environment) and under water (a source of hydrogen). It is proposed that the hydrogen effect is a universal phenomenon which affects the deformation and fracture behaviour of solids (organic materials may be exceptions).
Surgically defined prognostic parameters in patients with early cervical carcinoma: A multivariate survival tree analysis

BACKGROUND This study was performed to identify a statistical combination of independent pathologic and clinical features that best predict 5-year disease free survival (DFS) in patients with early stage cervical carcinoma treated by radical hysterectomy. The main goal of the study was to identify subsets of patients based on risk factors with maximal differences in DFS. METHODS Three hundred and seventy patients were found for whom complete clinical and pathologic material, including cone and cervical biopsies, were available for analysis. Variables studied included age, weight, race, marital status, economic status, tumor size (TS), depth of invasion (DI), lymph-vascular space involvement (LVSI), cell type, tumor grade, lymph node metastasis (LNM), and number of lymph nodes removed. Patients with LNM, parametrial involvement, and positive or close surgical margins were offered postoperative radiation. After excluding patients with microinvasive and small cell carcinoma, data from the remaining 301 patients were submitted to univariate and multivariate analyses to define those variables that best predict DFS. RESULTS Univariate analysis showed that, ranked by degree of significance, DI, TS, LVSI, LNM, tumor volume (TV) and clinical stage were significant in predicting survival. Significant (P 2 cm), LVSI, age (;ce40 yrs), and LNM were found to be the best combination of risk factors to define prognosis. CONCLUSIONS The multivariate survival tree analysis maximally separates patients with early stage invasive carcinoma of the cervix into 3 subgroups with 5-year DFS of 91%, 68%, and 43%, respectively. The authors excluded patients with microinvasive carcinoma (SGO, Society of Gynecologic Oncologists), who have an excellent DFS of 100%, and patients with small carcinoma, who have a poor DFS of 36.4% based on cell type alone, to define independent risk factors that maximally separate the remaining patients by DSF. The survival tree prognostic scoring system is easy to apply, and only requires DI (mm), LVSI (+, −), LNM, and age to assign an individual patient to one of three risk groups. Cancer 1996;78:1438-46.
Noninvasive spectroscopic diagnosis of superficial ocular lesions and corneal infections

The potential of a rapid noninvasive diagnostic system to detect tissue abnormalities on the surface of the eye has been investigated. The optical scatter signal from lesions and normal areas on the conjunctival sclera of the human eye were measured in vivo. It is possible to distinguish nonpigmented pingueculas from other lesions. The ability of the system to detect malignancies could not be tested because none of the measured and biopsied lesions were malignant. Optical scatter and fluorescence spectra of bacterial and fungal suspensions, and corneal irritations were also collected. Both scattering and fluorescence show potential for diagnosing corneal infections.
Strategic real options under asymmetric information

Abstract This paper studies the effect of private information on the capital allocation decisions of firms who operate under imperfect competition. I analyze two interactive firms, one with private information and the other without, who must decide when to undertake an irreversible and uncertain investment decision. Traditional non-strategic models of irreversible investment under uncertainty involve a single decision maker and result in an optimal period of delay before the investment is undertaken. In a strategic setting, firms must balance their desire to delay against competitive advantages from early investment. I find that an equilibrium may not exist within the standard continuous framework when the private information is over revenues. Moreover, when an equilibrium does exist the competitive pressures from the uninformed firm are weak. This is in contrast to existing models with asymmetric information over costs, where an equilibrium always exists and the competitive pressures remain strong ( Hsu and Lambrecht, 2007 ). This work shows that the investment timing decision, and thus the value of the private information, is highly sensitive to the nature of incomplete information.
Cellular and Subcellular Aspects of Myocardial Stunning

Possible mechanisms of myocardial stunning at the cellular level include oxygen free radical production, neutrophil-induced damage, accelerated degradation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), ischemia-induced myofibrillar damage, and calcium overload due to abnormal sodium/calcium exchange. Although the role of free radicals is generally accepted, their source(s) and clinical importance remain controversial. Similarly, an association of a declining ATP pool with myocardial stunning is well established but may not have clinical relevance as treatments that result in functional recovery do not always increase ATP levels. Little evidence exists for a strong link between myofibril damage and myocardial stunning. In contrast to these mechanisms, altered calcium homeostasis is an attractive hypothesis because: normal hearts perfused with high levels of calcium develop contractile dysfunctions similar to stunning; stunned hearts perfused with low calcium have increased function; calcium overload inhibition attenuates stunning; and reduced calcium ATPase activities have been found in sarcoplasmic reticulum from stunned hearts. Future research efforts should strive to simultaneously evaluate flow, function, and metabolic changes that occur in the stunned heart. Changes in the latter may eventually be studied using the techniques of molecular biology, integrating knowledge at the molecular level with clinical needs.
Canal Wall Reconstruction: A Newer Implantation Technique

An innovative hydroxylapatite canal wall implant underlies a new technique for reconstructing canal wall defects in well-pneumatized "disease-free" mastoid cavities. Previous primary reconstruction involving soft-tissue techniques were not always optimal, depending on the size of the defect. The new hard implant provides lasting canal wall contour, and the implantation technique can be duplicated by other otolaryngologists. Our experience with the implant is described in 11 patients (implant duration 2 to 37 months) using a modification of the technique described by Grote (1986). The implant is biocompatible, being incorporated into surrounding tissues. Indications, contraindications (relative and absolute), and the intraoperative sculpturing method are presented. Long-term and short-term complications are reviewed with suggestions to minimize complications.
The smell of distance: Wallace Stegner’s definition of western non-fiction

Abstract Wallace Stegner has argued that land, scale, and aridness are defining characteristics of both the American West and writings about the West. Stegner’s definition is analyzed using his own works and Mark Twain’s Roughing It .
Preferential Assimilation of Ammonium Ion by Chlorella vulgaris.

It is generally known that, when the culture medium contains ammoniacal nitrogen as well as nitrate and nitrite nitrogen, green algae utilize the ammoniacal nitrogen. However, when the supply of ammoniacal nitrogen is limited, there is a question as to the selectivity of the organism with regard to the nitrogen available. This situation arises when algal cells deplete the medium of the ammoniacal nitrogen originally supplied and are forced to rely on nitrogen in other forms, including those compounds arising from the metabolic activities of the cells.
The Reliability and Factorial Validity of a Scale for Measuring Teachers' Attitudes Towards Mainstreaming.

This paper reports the development of a scale entitled the Educational Attitude Survey (EAS) that was designed to measure teachers' attitudes toward the mainstreaming of handicapped children into regular classrooms. Consisting of 16 items, the EAS yields scores on two factorially determined subscales as well as a total scale score. The psychometric characteristics of the EAS indicate it to be a reliable and factorially valid measure of teachers' attitudes toward mainstreaming. The EAS should provide a useful measure for researchers and educators involved in examining teachers' attitudes toward the integration of handicapped students into regular classrooms.
Life cycle inventory study of the electrical energy production in Romania

Aim, Scope and Background The paper proposes the assessment of the environmental interventions resulting from the electrical energy production in Romania, a Central East European country, using the LCA technique limited to a Life Cycle Inventory study (an LCA without the Life Cycle Impact Assessment phase).
400 A NON-PARALLEL DECREASE IN PANCREATIC ENZYMES IN REO VlRUS TYPE 3 INFECTION OF SUCKLING MICE

A critical phase in the structural and functional maturation of the pancreas takes place in the neonatal period. The response to Reo Virus type 3 in suckling mice was studied after injecting 1×107 PFM into 9 day old animals intraperitoneally. Both control and test animals were sacrificed either 3 or 6 days following viral injection. Histology of the pancreas, after 3 and 6 days of viral infection, revealed a normal architecture, normal acinar cells with only a mild mononuclear infiltration observed in mice after 6 days of infection (F). In the 6 day infected mice, amylase (A), is significantly reduced (p< 0.001) as compared to the control of the same age. Lipase (L) is decreased as well, but to a lesser degree. In contrast, trypsin (T), increased significantly (p<0.02) in 3 day infected, but no difference in activity is seen in 6 day infected mice. Chymotrypsin (CT), was increased significantly (p < 0.02) over the similar control group. Carboxypeptidase A (CPA) & B (CPB) activities were not altered in either the 3 or 6 day infected animals. The enzyme activities can be divided into three groups; the amylase and lipase activities are diminished, the endopeptidases, trypsin and chymotrypsin are increased and the exopeptidases, carboxypeptidase A & B are without change. The effect of the viral infection on the enzyme activities indicate a non-parallel change on the developmental pattern of the pancreatic enzymes. (*units ± S.D. = μ moles/mg protein/min.)
Structure of the bacteriophage lambda cohesive end site: location of the sites of terminase binding (cosB) and nicking (cosN)

The extents of the sites for nicking (cosN) and binding (cosB) of bacteriophage lambda DNA by terminase have been determined by studying cos cleavage and terminase binding in vitro. The cosN site is located in the segment from -22 to +24 bp (numbered from the center of the cohesive end sequence in the circular lambda genome). The cosB site is located in the segment from +51 to +120 (the +120 boundary determined by Miwa and Matsubara, 1983). Additional sequences are necessary for packaging into infectious phage particles, including regions to the left (Rz gene side) of cosN, and between cosN and cosB. Small deletions (7 and 11 bp) between cosN and cosB abolish packaging in vivo without affecting cos binding and cleavage in vitro, whereas a large deletion (26 bp) abolishes packaging in vivo and cleavage in vitro.
Tropical wheat response to irrigation and nitrogen in a Sahelian environment. I. Grain yield, yield components and water use efficiency

Abstract Every year, increasing areas of irrigated land are being planted to tropical wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the Sahel. However, knowledge on how irrigation and nitrogen (N) supply can be simultaneously manipulated to realize maximum yield potential is limited. A 2 year field study was conducted to determine wheat response to differential seasonal irrigation regimes ranging from 300 to 690 mm applied water and 5 N levels of 0 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg N ha−1. Grain yield and all primary yield components increased linearly in response to irrigation in both seasons. Water use generally increased linearly with increased seasonal irrigation and applied N. A quadratic response in grain yield and kernel number m−2 was observed with increasing N levels in all irrigation regimes both seasons. Grain yield, spikes m−2, kernels spike−1, number of kernels m−2 and kernel weight responses to irrigation were greater at the higher N rates. Spikes m−2 were reduced with water deficit. In both years, the average reduction in number of kernels m−2 at the maximum irrigation deficit was 40.6 and 45% at 0 and 160 kg N ha−1, respectively. Similar reduction occurred in kernels−1 spike, where water deficit decreased this component an average of 21.4 and 31.8% at the lowest and highest N rates, respectively. Water deficit over both years reduced kernel weight by 12 and 19.4% at the lowest and highest N rates. This study showed that optimizing irrigation and N supply in a Sahelian environment can produce economic grain yield, and maximize economic return from wheat production. Nitrogen rate must be matched with the irrigation water available to increase water use efficiency and maximize profits.
Classroom climate and pupil characteristics in special classes for the educationally handicapped

Abstract This study related classroom climate to pupil attitude, behavior, and achievement in special classes for the educationally handicapped. A theoretical model based on previous research provided five dimensions believed important to classroom climate. Systematic observation was used to assess the dimensions in 11 special classes containing 117 elementary educationally handicapped pupils. Four climate dimensions- acceptance, (low) rejection, problem centeredness, and control-were significantly related to favorable pupil attitude, productivity, attendance, and arithmetic. The most successful classrooms on a composite of pupil measures had climates of acceptance and control, with medium or low rejection.
No pitiful stories: Looking at the relationship between adult literacy programs and empowerment

Many adult literacy programs promise would‐be students significant increases in their abilities and sweeping changes in their lives, which are described in their promotional materials by words such as control and empowerment. Academic discourse about literacy offers no systematic definition or examination of this alleged phenomenon. This study explores theoretical and methodological frameworks for considering the relationship between adult literacy programs and empowerment. The research question is: How can the experiences of adult learners be systematically presented and theoretically understood in relation to empowerment claims? Evidence offered in the study is a sampling of promotional literature from adult literacy programs and selections from the transcripts of five focus group discussions and 25 personal interviews conducted with adult learners in literacy programs, in Philadelphia, PA. The promotional literature is presented as evidence of the empowerment claims made by literacy‐providing agencies;...
Delayed Oscillation Phenomena in the FitzHugh Nagumo Equation

We study the problem of the slow passage through a Hopf bifurcation point for the FitzHugh Nagumo equation (FHN) vt = Dvxx − ƒ(v) − w + I0 + ϵt, (0.1a)wt = bv − bγw, (0.1b) where ƒ has some properties so that the system has a Hopf bifurcation at I = I− when ϵ = 0 and I = I0 + ϵt is regarded as a parameter independent of t. The experimental results of Jakobsson and Guttman showed that large amplitude oscillations occurred only after I reaches a value well above I− when ϵ is positive and small. The paper of S. M. Baer, T. Erneux, and J. Rinzel (Siam J. Appl. Math.49, 1989, 55-71) studied these phenomena numerically, and produced a prediction of the ignition (jumping) time for the system. In this work, we provide a rigorous proof of the results conjectured by Baer, Erneux, and Rinzel (referenced above). We show that if we start the solution of (0.1) at any point near the frame solution, which is the zero of the right-hand side of (0.1), at any Ii < I−, then the solution stays near the frame solution until I reaches some Iq < I−. Furthermore, for those cases in which Ii is close to I−, we show that the solution moves from the frame solution to become a large amplitude solution after I moves above some Iq < I−.
Synthesis and characterization of InP and InN colloidal quantum dots

InP quantum dots (QDs) with zinc blende structure and InN QDs with hexagonal structure were synthesized from appropriate organometallic precursors in a noncoordinating solvent using myristic acid as a ligand. The QDs were characterized by TEM, the associated energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), electron diffraction, and steady state UV-VIS optical absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy. To our best knowledge, this paper reports synthesis of InN colloidal quantum dots for the first time.
Genetic and Environmental Multidimensionality of Well- and Ill-Being in Middle Aged Twin Men

The goals of the study were to determine the extent to which the underlying structure of different types of well-being was multidimensional and whether well- and ill-being were influenced by similar or different genetic and environmental factors. Participants were 1226 male twins ages 51–60, from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging. Measures included: psychological well-being, Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire Well-Being scale (MPQWB), life satisfaction, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms. A two-orthogonal-factor common pathway model fit the data well. Psychological well-being and self-esteem loaded most strongly on Factor 1, which was highly heritable (h2 = .79). Life satisfaction loaded most strongly on Factor 2, which was only moderately heritable (h2 = .32). Only MPQWB had measure-specific genetic influences. Depressive symptoms loaded on both factors, and only depressive symptoms had measure-specific common environmental influences. All measures had specific unique environmental influences. Results indicate that well-being is genetically and environmentally multidimensional and that ill-being has partial overlap with both latent factors.
Bi-criteria dynamic location-routing problem for patrol coverage

In this paper, we address the problem of dynamic patrol routing for state troopers for effective coverage of highways. Specifically, a number of state troopers start their routes at temporary stations (TS), patrol critical locations with high crash frequencies, and end their shifts at other (or the same) TS so the starting points for the next period are also optimized. We determine the number of state troopers, their assigned routes, and the locations of the TS where they start and end their routes. The TS are selected from a given set of potential locations. The problem, therefore, is a multi-period dynamic location-routing problem in the context of public service. Our objective is to maximize the critical location coverage benefit while minimizing the costs of TS selections, vehicle utilizations, and routing/travel. The multi-objective nature of the problem is handled using an ɛ-constraint approach. We formulate the problem as a mixed integer linear programming model and solve it using both off-the-shelf optimization software and a custom-built, efficient heuristic algorithm. The heuristic, utilizing the hierarchical structure of the problem, is built on the decomposition of location and routing problems. By allowing routing to start from multiple locations, our model improves the coverage by as much as 12% compared with the single-depot coverage model.
Endothelin and endothelin converting enzyme-1 in the fish gill: evolutionary and physiological perspectives.

In euryhaline fishes like the killifish ( Fundulus heteroclitus ) that experience daily fluctuations in environmental salinity, endothelin 1 (EDN1) may be an important regulator molecule necessary to maintain ion homeostasis. The purpose of this study was to determine if EDN1 and the endothelin converting enzyme (ECE1; the enzyme necessary for cleaving the precursor proendothelin-1 to EDN1) are present in the killifish, to determine if environmental salinity regulates their expression, and to examine the phylogenetic relationships among the EDNs and among the ECEs. We sequenced killifish gill cDNA for two EDN1 orthologues, EDN1A and EDN1B , and also sequenced a portion of ECE1 cDNA. EDN1A and ECE1 mRNA are expressed ubiquitously in the killifish while EDN1B mRNA has little expression in the killifish opercular epithelium or gill. Using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, EDN1 was localized to large round cells adjacent to the mitochondrion-rich cells of the killifish gill, and to lamellar pillar cells. In the gill, EDN1A and EDN1B mRNA levels did not differ with acute (<24 h) or chronic (30 days) acclimation to seawater (SW); however, EDN1B levels increased threefold post SW to freshwater (FW) transfer, and ECE1 mRNA levels significantly increased twofold over this period. ECE1 mRNA levels also increased sixfold over 24 h post FW to SW transfer. Chronic exposure to SW or FW had little effect on ECE1 mRNA levels. Based upon our cellular localization studies, we modeled EDN1 expression in the fish gill and conclude that it is positioned to act as a paracrine regulator of gill functions in euryhaline fishes. It also may function as an autocrine on pillar cells, where it is hypothesized to regulate local blood flow in the lamellae. From our phylogenetic analyses, ECE is predicted to have an ancient origin and may be a generalist endoprotease in non-vertebrate organisms, while EDNs are vertebrate-specific peptides and may be key characters in vertebrate evolution.
Probabilistic modelling for estimating gas kinetics and decompression sickness risk in pigs during H2 biochemical decompression.

Abstract We modelled the kinetics of H2 flux during gas uptake and elimination in conscious pigs exposed to hyperbaric H2. The model used a physiological description of gas flux fitted to the observed decompression sickness (DCS) incidence in two groups of pigs: untreated controls, and animals that had received intestinal injections of H2-metabolizing microbes that biochemically eliminated some of the H2 stored in the pigs’ tissues. To analyse H2 flux during gas uptake, animals were compressed in a dry chamber to 24 atm (ca 88% H2, 9% He, 2% O2, 1% N2) for 30–1440 min and decompressed at 0.9 atm min −1 (n=70) . To analyse H2 flux during gas elimination, animals were compressed to 24 atm for 3 h and decompressed at 0.45–1.8 atm min−1(n=58). Animals were closely monitored for 1 h post-decompression for signs of DCS. Probabilistic modelling was used to estimate that the exponential time constant during H2 uptake (τin) and H2 elimination (τout) were 79±25 min and 0.76±0.14 min, respectively. Thus, the gas kinetics affecting DCS risk appeared to be substantially faster for elimination than uptake, which is contrary to customary assumptions of gas uptake and elimination kinetic symmetry. We discuss the possible reasons for this asymmetry, and why absolute values of H2 kinetics cannot be obtained with this approach.
Speed of Movement in Relation to Period of the Electroencephalogram in Normal Children

Movement Time (MT) and simple reaction time (RT) were investigated in relation to period of the electroencephalogram (EEG) in a group of 17 healthy boys aged 8.5–17.2 years. MT and RT were measured by means of a modified version of the dart-throwing game in which S thrust his arm and forefinger forward, as quickly as possible, at a target located 28 cm away. Statistically significant negative correlations between RT and age and between MT and age confirmed previous reports that younger children not only take more time to initiate a response than older children but also move more slowly. RT was positively correlated with EEG period but MT and EEG period were not related. MT and RT were unrelated when age of the Ss in the sample had been taken into account. Overall, findings suggested that while MT and RT in children appear to run similar developmental courses, the speed of initiation and speed of execution of a response are not determined by the same processes.
Insulin activates guanosine 5′-[γ-thio] triphosphate (GTPγS) binding to a novel GTP-binding protein, GIR, from human placenta

A novel GTP-binding protein, G IR , along with insulin receptor (IR), has been partially purified from human placenta. A non-hydrolyzable substrate, GTPγS which is known to bind to GTP-binding proteins with high affinity, reduces insulin binding to IR-G IR fraction by approximately 29% and 100 nM insulin stimulates GTPγS binding to IR-G IR fraction by approximately five-fold. The molecular weight of the protein (may be subunit) that binds to 8-azido-GTP, a photoaffinity label for G-proteins, is approximately 66,000.
On the Vibrations of Polyatomic Molecules

An exact solution of the wave equation is found for a form of one-dimensional potential energy which may be of use in discussing polyatomic molecular vibrational energies. An example of its use is given in an analysis of the vibration of the nitrogen in the ammonia molecule. The potential energy for this atom has two minima a distance $2{x}_{m}$ apart, separated by a "hill" of height $H$. The values of ${x}_{m}$ and $H$ are not known directly from band spectral data, and are needed for a full analysis of the spectrum. By joining two potential curves of the sort dealt with in the first part of this paper in a symmetric manner, a curve simulating that for the nitrogen atom in ammonia was formed. It was found that for certain values of the constants fixing this curve, the allowed vibrational energies were the same as the experimentally determined values for ammonia. The corresponding value of ${x}_{m}$ was 0.38A, and that of $H$ was \textonequarter{} electron-volt. These values are probably near the correct values of ${x}_{m}$ and $H$ for ammonia.
Integrated medical-image system for cancer research and treatment

This paper describes a large, heterogeneous network of supercomputers, workstations, and personal computers for clinicians and researchers at the National Cancer Center in Tokyo. Intended uses of the system include a medical-image database, a patient-record database, visualization of 3D medical images, computer-assisted diagnosis, genome and protein databases, and proof-of-concept synthetic environments. An overview of the system is followed by detailed descriptions of two subsystems: the medical-image-database subsystem and the synthetic-environment subsystem. The medical-image-database subsystem integrates a large number of image-acquisition devices, such as X-ray computed tomography and ultrasound echography equipment. The image database is designed for a high image-data input rate by means of a storage hierarchy and high-speed network connections. The synthetic-environment subsystem includes two prototype applications (a neurosurgery simulator and an anatomy viewer) that explore the possibilities of synthetic-environment technology in medicine.