cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The N-terminal Domain of the Drosophila Mitochondrial Replicative DNA Helicase Contains an Iron-Sulfur Cluster and Binds DNA

The metazoan mitochondrial DNA helicase is an integral part of the minimal mitochondrial replisome. It exhibits strong sequence homology with the bacteriophage T7 gene 4 protein primase-helicase (T7 gp4). Both proteins contain distinct N- and C-terminal domains separated by a flexible linker. The C-terminal domain catalyzes its characteristic DNA-dependent NTPase activity, and can unwind duplex DNA substrates independently of the N-terminal domain. Whereas the N-terminal domain in T7 gp4 contains a DNA primase activity, this function is lost in metazoan mtDNA helicase. Thus, although the functions of the C-terminal domain and the linker are partially understood, the role of the N-terminal region in the metazoan replicative mtDNA helicase remains elusive. Here, we show that the N-terminal domain of Drosophila melanogaster mtDNA helicase coordinates iron in a 2Fe-2S cluster that enhances protein stability in vitro. The N-terminal domain binds the cluster through conserved cysteine residues (Cys68, Cys71, Cys102, and Cys105) that are responsible for coordinating zinc in T7 gp4. Moreover, we show that the N-terminal domain binds both single- and double-stranded DNA oligomers, with an apparent Kd of ∼120 nm. These findings suggest a possible role for the N-terminal domain of metazoan mtDNA helicase in recruiting and binding DNA at the replication fork.
Evaluation of Isaria fumosorosea (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) for control of the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)

A laboratory bioassay was developed to evaluate strains of Isaria fumosorosea Wize, against Diaphorina citri. Up to 100% of adult psyllids were killed at concentrations between 106 and 107 blastospores/ml after 12 days, with derived LC50 values (at 7 days post treatment) between 1.4 × 105 and 2.0 × 106 blastospores/ml for strains ARSEF 3581, FE 9901 and Apopka-97. A significantly higher value (1.5 × 107) was obtained with a conidial formulation of Apopka-97. Average survival times were dosage dependent, i.e. between 10.2 days at 103 blastospores/ml and 3.5 days at 108 blastospores/ml. Rates of mycosis were also dosage dependent, with up to 100% sporulation on cadavers at 108 blastospores/ml but declining at lower concentrations. The Apopka-97 strain (commercially available as PFR-97) was tested against established D. citri infestations in potted citrus in greenhouse cages. Treatments at label rates reduced psyllid populations by approximately 50% over 3 weeks. The combination of PFR-97 with emulsifiable o...
Function and Selectivity of Bromodomains in Anchoring Chromatin-Modifying Complexes to Promoter Nucleosomes

The functions of the SAGA and SWI/SNF complexes are interrelated and can form stable "epigenetic marks" on promoters in vivo. Here we show that stable promoter occupancy by SWI/SNF and SAGA in the absence of transcription activators requires the bromodomains of the Swi2/Snf2 and Gcn5 subunits, respectively, and nucleosome acetylation. This acetylation can be brought about by either the SAGA or NuA4 HAT complexes. The bromodomain in the Spt7 subunit of SAGA is dispensable for this activity but will anchor SAGA if it is swapped into Gcn5, indicating that specificity of bromodomain function is determined in part by the subunit it occupies. Thus, bromodomains within the catalytic subunits of SAGA and SWI/SNF anchor these complexes to acetylated promoter nucleosomes.
NMR studies of hydrogen bonding of phenol with several proton acceptors

Abstract Proton magnetic resonance studies are reported of self-association of phenol in carbon tetrachloride and in cyclohexane, and of hydrogen bonding between phenol and two carbonyl and several phosphoryl compounds. The NMR chemical shift, δ x , of a proton in a hydrogen bond has been found to be dependent on both the temperature and the concentration of the proton acceptor. Furthermore, the chemical shift data at low concentration of proton acceptor suggest the presence of a 2:1 proton donor-acceptor complex in addition to a 1:1 complex. A linear relationship exists between the change in chemical shift and O-H stretching frequency shift upon complexation of phenol with phosphoryl compounds.
Oppositional Discourse in Israeli Media: Reflections of Multiple Cultural Identities in Coverage of the Rabin-Arafat Handshake

Israeli media coverage of a well-known event, the 1993 handshake between Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat, provides a glimpse into the nature of competing collective identities held by Israelis. The potential for multiple interpretations (and therefore multiple perspectives) of the largely nonverbal event allows for these identities to be presented and, in many cases, contrasted. To assess competing identities in the mediated discourse, we reviewed 191 articles/transcripts in the Hebrew-language Israeli media that had been translated into English and in the English-language Israeli media. These texts provided an array of what we argue are dialectics or oppositional forces present in the discussions. Most notable of these dialectics were those that characterized the handshake and the accompanying negotiations as inevitable or impossible, as opening or closing opportunities for Israelis, as resulting in feelings of euphoria or betrayal, and as splintering or unifying the relevant parties. The authors argue t...
Current Utilization of Reconstructive Upper Limb Surgery in Tetraplegia

Despite improved surgical techniques and postoperative management protocols for tetraplegic patients undergoing upper extremity functional reconstruction, recent studies have shown that these procedures are profoundly underutilized in the United States. The complex disabilities of tetraplegic patients limit their ability to independently obtain treatment information and travel to medical destinations to receive reconstructive procedures, thus making them a vulnerable patient population susceptible to physician influence regarding treatment decisions. Based on the results of previous research, we believe that increased collaboration among treating physician specialties will enhance patient access to surgical reconstruction.
Scepticism and Faith in the Philosophy of Pascal

The neglect of Pascal by the English-speaking world today is little short of amazing. Within the last decade France has produced literally scores of studies of his life and thought; but, with the exception of a book by St. Cyres and an essay by Paul Elmer More, there has been scarcely a sign that we were conscious of any special relation between the spirit of our own age and that of this seventeenth-century genius. Yet Pascal is indeed a man of the present, and a study of his multiplex personality has never been more pertinent than it is today. Geometrician, experimental physicist, biting satirist, literary artist, keen-sighted moralist, devout believer, philosophical sceptic, man of the world, ascetic recluse, the problem of the balance and inter-relation of these selves is still waiting a completely satisfactory solution. How was it that the geometrician and experimental physicist could be a pronounced supernaturalist? How was it that the almost cynical man of the world could become the devout recluse? What relation can we find between the sceptical doubt of the possibility of knowledge and the obedient acceptance of the dogmas of the church? With what consistency could the rationalistic critic of Jesuit morality be the challenger of all philosophic creeds? How could all these conflicting interests keep house together in the same frail tenement and present the semblance of a unified life? Perhaps they could not, and his death in his fortieth year was the outcome.
Effect of Particle Size and Adsorbates on the L3, L2 and L1 X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure of Supported Pt Nanoparticles

Pt nano-particles from about 1 to 10 nm have been prepared on silica, alkali-silica, alumina, silica-alumina, carbon and SBA-15 supports. EXAFS spectra of the reduced catalysts in He show a contraction of the Pt–Pt bond distance as particle size is decreased below 3 nm. The bond length decreased as much as 0.13 A for 1 nm Pt particles. Adsorption of CO and H2 lead to a increase in Pt–Pt bond distance to that near Pt foil, e.g., 2.77 A. In addition to changes in the Pt bond distance with size, as the particle size decreases below about 5 nm there is a shift in the XANES to higher energy at the L3 edge, a decrease in intensity near the edge and an increase in intensity beyond the edge. We suggest these features correspond to effects of coordination (the decrease at the edge) and lattice contraction (the increase beyond the edge). At the L2 edge, there are only small shifts to higher energy at the edge. However, beyond the edge, there are large increases in intensity with decreasing particle size. At the L1 edge there are no changes in position or shape of the XANES spectra. Adsorption of CO and H2 also lead to changes in the L3 and L2 edges, however, no changes are observed at the L1 edge. Density Functional Theory and XANES calculations show that the trends in the experimental XANES can be explained in terms of the states available near the edge. Both CO and H2 adsorption result in a depletion of states at the Fermi level but the creation of anti-bonding states above the Fermi level which give rise to intensity increases beyond the edge.
Kiss of the Spider Woman: Native American Storytellers and Cultural Transmission∗

This article explores the role of the aged within First Nation communities, and the impact on those communities of younger people taking on functions traditionally associated with older people. Historically, Native American elders have been storytellers, transmitting cultural knowledge and values to the next generation. However, relatively few Native American children currently have adequate access to elders who do this work. I argue that some contemporary Native American writers' texts take on this role, performing acts of social transmission necessary for cultural survival. A close reading of Louise Erdrich's Last Report on the Miracles at Little No Horse provides specificity and demonstrates that Native Americans' novels can usefully and respectfully assume some of the functions traditionally performed by elders.
Cost-Benefit Evaluation of Seismic Risk Mitigation Alternatives for Older Concrete Frame Buildings

Cost-benefit assessment is used to evaluate the effectiveness of various seismic retrofit strategies to address concerns about earthquake safety and damage to older concrete frame buildings. The be...
Ecological Impact of Bt Cotton

Abstract An overview of the ecological impact of transgenic crops, especially Bt cotton, is given in this paper. Crops expressing insecticidal crystal protein (ICP) genes from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) were among the first transgenic products approved for commercial use in the USA and several other countries. The cotton farming community in the USA embraced the transgenic technology because of potential benefits such as reducing (1) costs of operation and (2) damage to the environment and ground water supply, due to the repeated use of pesticides. However, concerns about genetically modified crops and foods remain in the USA and elsewhere. The transfer of Bt genes to wild relatives and neighboring crops, impact of Bt on non-target organisms, effects on crop yield and the possibility of insect pest populations developing resistance have all been items of concern. Key aspects of these benefits and concerns are summarized here.
A shock harness for rats: Resistance as a function of shock intensity

The efficiency of a harness device for administering consistent electric shocks to rats was evaluated by measuring changes in resistance as a function of shock intensity, both within a single shock and over the course of 15 days. Resistance within a single session was most constant at the highest shock level used (4.25 ma) and did not increase significantly as a function of time at any of the four shock intensities employed.
Reduced expression of IL-12 p35 by SJL/J macrophages responding to Theiler's virus infection is associated with constitutive activation of IRF-3

Abstract Macrophages responding to viral infections may contribute to autoimmune demyelinating diseases (ADD). Macrophages from ADD-susceptible SJL/J mice responding to Theiler's Virus (TMEV) infection, the TLR7 agonist loxoribine, or the TLR4 agonist-LPS expressed less IL-12 p35 but more IL-12/23 p40 and IFN-β than macrophages from ADD-resistant B10.S mice. While expression of IRF-1 and -7 was similar between B10.S and SJL/J TMEV-infected macrophages, SJL/J but not B10.S macrophages exhibited constitutively active IRF-3. In contrast to overexpressed IRF-1, IRF-5, and IRF-7, which stimulated p35 promoter reporter activity, overexpressed IRF-3 repressed p35 promoter activity in response to TMEV infection, loxoribine, IFN-γ/LPS, but not IFN-γ alone. IRF-3 lessened but did not eliminate IRF-1-stimulated p35 promoter activity. Repression by IRF-3 required bp −172 to −122 of the p35 promoter. The data suggest that pre-activated IRF-3 is a major factor in the differences in IL-12 production between B10.S and SJL/J macrophages responding to TMEV.
Inhibition of spinal protein kinase Cα expression by an antisense oligonucleotide attenuates morphine infusion-induced tolerance

Abstract Protein kinase C isoforms including the α isozyme have been implicated in morphine tolerance. In the present study, we examined the effect of intrathecal delivery of an antisense oligonucleotide targeting rat protein kinase Cα mRNA on the expression of spinal protein kinase Cα isozyme and spinal morphine tolerance. Continuous intrathecal infusion of rats with morphine produced an increase in paw withdrawal threshold to thermal stimulation on day 1, which disappeared by day 5. On day 6, a bolus intrathecal injection of morphine (a probe dose) produced significantly less analgesia in morphine-infused rats than in saline-infused rats, suggesting tolerance. Intrathecal treatment with the protein kinase Cα antisense concurrent with spinal morphine infusion not only maintained the analgesic effect of morphine during the 5-day infusion, it also significantly increased responsiveness to the probe morphine dose on day 6. In comparison, the missense used in the same treatment paradigm had no effect. The inhibitory effect of protein kinase Cα antisense on spinal morphine tolerance was dose-dependent, and reversible. Intrathecal treatment with the antisense, but not the missense, in rats decreased expression of spinal protein kinase Cα mRNA and protein, as revealed by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blots. Expression of the γ isozyme was not affected by the oligonucleotides. The antisense also attenuated protein kinase C-mediated phosphorylation in spinal cord. These results demonstrate that selective reduction in the expression of the spinal protein kinase Cα isozyme followed by a decrease of local protein kinase C-mediated phosphorylation will reverse spinal morphine infusion-induced tolerance. This finding is consistent with the view that tolerance produced by morphine infusion is dependent upon an increase in phosphorylation by protein kinase C, and also it emphasizes that the protein kinase Cα isozyme and its activation in spinal cord may specifically participate in the phenomenon of opiate tolerance.
Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo Controlled Study of Neuroprotection With Lidocaine in Cardiac Surgery

Background and Purpose— Cognitive decline after cardiac surgery remains common and diminishes patients’ quality of life. Based on experimental and clinical evidence, this study assessed the potential of intravenously administered lidocaine to reduce postoperative cognitive dysfunction after cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods— After IRB approval, 277 patients undergoing cardiac surgery were enrolled into this prospective, randomized, double-blinded placebo controlled clinical trial. Subjects were randomized to receive: (1) Lidocaine as a 1 mg/kg bolus followed by a continuous infusion through 48 hours postoperatively, or (2) Placebo bolus and infusion. Cognitive function was assessed preoperatively and again at 6 weeks and 1 year postoperatively. The effect of lidocaine on postoperative cognition was tested using multivariable regression modeling; P<0.05 was considered significant. Results— Among the 241 allocated subjects (Lidocaine: n=114; Placebo: n=127), the incidence of cognitive de...
Coloring planar perfect graphs by decomposition

This paper describes a decomposition scheme for coloring perfect graphs. Based on this scheme, one need only concentrate on coloring highly connected (at least 3-connected) perfect graphs. This idea is illustrated on planar perfect graphs, which yields a straightforward coloring algorithm. We suspect that, under appropriate definition, highly connected perfect graphs might possess certain regular properties that are amenable to coloring algorithms.
The Construction of Preference: Constructing Preferences From Memory

Our memories define who we are and what we do. Aside from a few preferences hardwired by evolution, they also define what we like and how we choose. In this chapter, we argue that our view of preference changes if conceptualized explicitly as the product of memory representations and memory processes. We draw on insights about the functions and operations of memory provided by cognitive psychology and social cognition to show that memory plays a crucial role in preference and choice. We examine memory processes in preference and choice at a more "micro" and process-oriented level than previous investigations into the role of memory processes, but at a level that is cognitive and functional, rather than computational. We suggest that a consideration of properties of memory representation and retrieval may provide a unifying explanatory framework for some seemingly disparate preference phenomena.
COMMUNICATIONS INTELLIGENCE AND THE SINKING OF THE U-860, APRIL-JUNE 1944

(1999). COMMUNICATIONS INTELLIGENCE AND THE SINKING OF THE U-860, APRIL-JUNE 1944. The Mariner's Mirror: Vol. 85, No. 1, pp. 68-75.
The effects of bombesin injected into The anterior and posterior hypothalamus on body temperature and oxygen consumption.

Abstract Bombesin was microinjected into the lateral ventricle, preoptic area, and posterior hypothalamus of cold-exposed rats. Preoptic and ventricular injections produced dose-dependent depressions in metabolism with subsequent hypothermia. Furthermore, injections into the preoptic area elicited greater depressions in body temperature than equivalent doses injected into the lateral ventricle. No changes in oxygen consumption or body temperature resulted from posterior hypothalamic administration of the peptide. The data suggest that the preoptic area may be an important site of action for bombesin and that bombesin-induced hypothermia is mediated, at least in part, by a reduction in metabolic rate.
Central Role of the PPARγ Gene Network in Coordinating Beef Cattle Intramuscular Adipogenesis in Response to Weaning Age and Nutrition

Adipogenic/lipogenic transcriptional networks regulating intramuscular fat deposition (IMF) in response to weaning age and dietary starch level were studied. The longissimus muscle (LM) of beef steers on an early weaning (141 days age) plus high-starch diet (EWS) or a normal weaning (NW, 222 days age) plus starch creep-feed diet (CFS) was biopsied at 0 (EW), 25, 50, 96 (NW), 167, and 222 (pre-slaughter) days. Expression patterns of 35 target genes were studied. From NW through slaughter, all steers received the same high-starch diet. In EWS steers the expression of PPARG, other adipogenic (CEBPA, ZFP423) and lipogenic (THRSP, SREBF1, INSIG1) activators, and several enzymes (FASN, SCD, ELOVL6, PCK1, DGAT2) that participate in the process of IMF increased gradually to a peak between 96 and 167 days on treatment. Steers in NW did not achieve similar expression levels even by 222 days on treatment, suggesting a blunted response even when fed a high-starch diet after weaning. High-starch feeding at an early age (EWS) triggers precocious and sustained adipogenesis, resulting in greater marbling.
Distributed containment control for double-integrator dynamics: Algorithms and experiments

This paper studies distributed containment control for double-integrator dynamics in the presence of both stationary and dynamic leaders. In the case of stationary leaders, we propose a distributed containment control algorithm and study conditions on the network topology and the control gains to guarantee asymptotic containment control in any dimensional space. In the case of dynamic leaders, we study two cases: leaders with an identical velocity and leaders with nonidentical velocities. For the first case, we propose a distributed containment control algorithm to solve asymptotic containment control under a switching directed network topology. In particular, asymptotic containment control can be achieved for any dimensional space if the network topology is fixed and for only the one-dimensional space if the network topology is switching. For the second case, we propose a distributed containment control algorithm under a fixed network topology where the communication patterns among the followers are undirected and derive conditions on the network topology and the control gains to guarantee asymptotic containment control for any dimensional space. Experimental results on a multi-robot platform are provided to validate some theoretical results.
Analysis of the behavior of logic-based computation for deductive databases and default reasoning

Abstract One advantage of logic programming is the ability to use formal logic to analyze program behavior. Formal logic provides a basis for demonstrating that a program will behave as the user intends. This paper attempts to present to the non-logician known program behavior results for logic programs in the context of deductive databases. Previous results are extended through an investigation of a class of programs more general than logic programs. Specific attention is given to computational approaches which involve the solution of a finite sequence of progressively larger integer linear programming problems (ILP's). Constraints for such problems are constructed by a form of logical unification. Results indicate that under certain conditions the solution to the last ILP yields a Herbrand model for the original set of statements in logic.
Optimization of the strength-fracture toughness relation in particulate-reinforced aluminum composites via control of the matrix microstructure

The evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties of a 17.5 vol. pct SiC particulate-reinforced aluminum alloy 6092-matrix composite has been studied as a function of postfabrication processing and heat treatment. It is demonstrated that, by the control of particulate distribution, matrix grain, and substructure and of the matrix precipitate state, the strength-toughness combination in the composite can be optimized over a wide range of properties, without resorting to unstable, underaged (UA) matrix microstructures, which are usually deemed necessary to produce a higher fracture toughness than that displayed in the peak-aged condition. Further, it is demonstrated that, following an appropriate combination of thermomechanical processing and unconventional heat treatment, the composite may possess better stiffness, strength, and fracture toughness than a similar unreinforced alloy. In the high- and low-strength matrix microstructural conditions, the matrix grain and substructure were found to play a substantial role in determining fracture properties. However, in the intermediate-strength regime, properties appeared to be optimizable by the utilization of heat treatments only. These observations are rationalized on the basis of current understanding of the grain size dependence of fracture toughness and the detailed microstructural features resulting from thermomechanical treatments.
Effect of Chloride Ions on Adsorption and Permeation of Hydrogen in Iron

Abstract Effects of chloride ions (Cl−) on hydrogen absorption into iron and on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on an iron surface were studied in acid and alkaline solutions at 23°C using th...
The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor in C. elegans

The soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a genetic model organism whose cellular physiology is closely related to that of mammals, with many signaling cascades and second messengers mirroring those found in higher organisms. Due to the genetic, anatomical, and behavioral simplicity of worms, integrative physiological techniques are relatively straightforward and represent a powerful approach to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying more complex system functions. Studies of the nematode inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) have led to advances in our understanding of its role in development and behavior. Unlike mammals, which express three InsP3R isoforms, nematodes express only a single InsP3R coded for by the itr-1 gene. Forward genetic screens have resulted in the generation of conditional loss- and gain-of-function alleles of itr-1, and genetic epistasis analyses have provided insight into how the InsP3R integrates various signals to regulate morphogenesis, sensation, and rhythmic behaviors. Novel techniques in the worm model have helped to define cell-specific regulatory pathways that control InsP3 signaling and have shed light on new roles for the InsP3R itself in systems physiology. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2012,1:321–328. doi: 10.1002/wmts.25 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Structural and biochemical characterization of N5-­carboxyaminoimidazole ribonucleotide synthetase and N5-carboxyaminoimidazole ribonucleotide mutase from Staphylococcus aureus

With the rapid rise of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections, new strategies against S. aureus are urgently needed. De novo purine biosynthesis is a promising yet unexploited target, insofar as abundant evidence has shown that bacteria with compromised purine biosynthesis are attenuated. Fundamental differences exist within the process by which humans and bacteria convert 5-aminoimidazole ribonucleotide (AIR) to 4-carboxy-5-aminoimidazole ribonucleotide (CAIR). In bacteria, this transformation occurs through a two-step conversion catalyzed by PurK and PurE; in humans, it is mediated by a one-step conversion catalyzed by class II PurE. Thus, these bacterial enzymes are potential targets for selective antibiotic development. Here, the first comprehensive structural and biochemical characterization of PurK and PurE from S. aureus is presented. Structural analysis of S. aureus PurK reveals a nonconserved phenylalanine near the AIR-binding site that occupies the putative position of the imidazole ring of AIR. Mutation of this phenylalanine to isoleucine or tryptophan reduced the enzyme efficiency by around tenfold. The K{sub m} for bicarbonate was determined for the first time for a PurK enzyme and was found to be {approx}18.8 mM. The structure of PurE is described in comparison to that of human class II PurE. It is confirmed biochemically that His38 ismore » essential for function. These studies aim to provide foundations for future structure-based drug-discovery efforts against S. aureus purine biosynthesis.« less
Ad libitum feeding: safely improving the cost-effectiveness of pyloromyotomy.

Abstract Background/Purpose: Patients undergoing pyloromyotomy traditionally have been placed on complex postoperative feeding regimens. The authors evaluated the substitution of an ad libitum feeding regimen to determine if it could decrease length of hospital stay and cost without increasing the moribidity rate. Methods: Fifty-six consecutive patients undergoing open pyloromyotomy were evaluated. The initial 31 patients were treated with a traditional protocol, whereas the next 25 patients received ad libitum feeding. Time to first full-strength feeding, amount and time of any emesis, and time to discharge were recorded. Hospital costs and number of readmissions were assessed. Results: Patients in the ad libitum group had a statistically significant shorter time to discharge (25.1 hours versus 38.8 hours), which translated into a savings of $1,290 per patient. Whereas more patients in the ad libitum group experienced postoperative emesis (32% v 26%), this was not statistically significant. There was no other morbidity and there were no readmissions in either group. Conclusions: Postoperative ad libitum feedings resulted in significant decreases in hospital stay and associated costs without increasing morbidity. Ad libitum feeding is safe, simple, and cost effective, and may offer an avenue for short-stay pyloromyotomy in selected patients. J Pediatr Surg 37:1667-1668. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Cerebral abnormalities in the oral-facial-digital syndrome.

This is a report of three cases of the oralfacial-digital (OFD) syndrome with accompanying severe cerebral abnormalities. Among 150 reported cases of this syndrome, 16 had accompanying documented cerebral anomalies including porencephalic cysts, agenesis of the corpus callosum, and cortical hypoplasia. Although mental retardation is a prominent feature of this syndrome, neuroradiologic workup is infrequent.
Axonopathy-Inducing 1,2-Diacetylbenzene Forms Adducts with Motor and Cytoskeletal Proteins Required for Axonal Transport

The aromatic hydrocarbon 1,2-diacetylbenzene (1,2-DAB) is a protein-reactive γ-diketone metabolite of the neurotoxic solvent 1,2-diethylbenzene (1,2-DEB). The effect of neurotoxic 1,2-DAB and its non-neurotoxic isomer 1,3-DAB has been studied on motor proteins and cytoskeletal proteins of rat spinal cord (SC). For in vitro studies, SC slices were incubated with 1, 2, 5, 10 mM of DAB isomers for 30 min at 37°C. For in vivo studies, rats received (i.p.) 20 mg/kg/day of 1,2-DAB or 1,3-DAB, or vehicle (2% acetone in saline), 5 days a week for 2 weeks. Spinal cord and sciatic nerve proteins were subjected to Western blotting using monoclonal mouse antibodies to NF-M, kinesin, dynein, and tau. Proteins were quantified and paired mean comparisons performed to assess concentration-dependent changes in native protein bands. In vitro, 1,2-DAB produced a concentration-dependent decrease of motor and cytoskeletal proteins. While dynein and tau appeared similarly affected by 1,2-DAB, kinesin was most affected by the toxicant. In vivo, 1,2-DAB affected motor and cytoskeletal proteins of sciatic nerves and spinal cord differentially. In general, sciatic nerve proteins were much more affected than spinal cord proteins. The results show that motor proteins that drive axonal transport anterogradely (kinesin) and retrogradely (dynein), cytoskeletal protein NF-M, which is slowly transported in the anterograde direction, and microtubule-associated protein, tau, which is involved in axonal transport, are differentially impacted by 1,2-DAB. By contrast, non-neurotoxic isomer 1,3-diacetylbenzene (1,3-DAB), had no adverse effect on neural proteins either in vitro or in vivo. 2D-Differential in gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) of sciatic nerves from neurotoxic 1,2-DAB and non-neurotoxic 1,3-DAB treated rats revealed 197 and 304 protein spots, respectively.
Cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression emotion regulation strategies in cigarette smokers.

Introduction: Negative affect is an important psychological factor in the promotion and maintenance of cigarette smoking, though the underlying factors that account for this relationship remain to be determined. One possible mechanism may be smokers’ emotion regulation strategies. Preliminary research among adolescents and young adults suggests that greater utilization of expressive suppression versus cognitive reappraisal is associated with higher rates of smoking initiation. There is limited research, however, on the role of emotion regulation strategies in smoking maintenance in adult smokers.
Indirect manifestation of cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis (L.)) predation on pond fish stock

The damage to fisheries caused by cormorant predation pressure consists of losses due to direct predation and subsequent indirect losses elicited by cormorant feeding activities resulting in fish wounding and stress. Hea- led wounds reduce the commercial value of afflicted fish and stress may impact fish body and health condition. Fultons condition coefficient (FCC) was calculated for wounded and healthy two-year old carp originating from five South Moravian (Czech Republic) fishponds. Significant (P = 0.0011) differences in FCC (mean ± s.d.), were found between non-woun- ded (1.48 ± 0.11, n = 19) and wounded mirror common carp, Cyprinus car- pio (1.33 ± 0.14, n = 19). However no differences (P > 0.05) were recorded in scaly common carp between non-wounded (FCC 1.41 ± 0.25, n = 33) and wounded (FCC 1.46 ± 0.47, n = 33) fish of the same age and size ca- tegory. A computer assisted image analysis was applied to describe the extent of such injuries. In the case of two-year old mirror, scaly and bi- ghead carp (Aristichthys nobilis), signs of serious injuries (necroses) were recorded on 1.93, 0.89 and 1.61% of body surface, respectively. Fish with deep wounds and scars, often accompanied with progressive necroses, were subject to parasitological examination. The percentage of wounded fish from total fish harvested was evaluated as ranging between < 1 and 47.4% in five ponds under study. Key-words: piscivorous predators, fish wounding, fish condition, image analysis, carp pond culture
Luteal function in the bitch: changes during diestrus in pituitary concentration of and the number of luteal receptors for luteinizing hormone and prolactin.

The concentration of unoccupied luteal receptors for luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin, and the concentration of these two hormones in the pituitary was determined in 11 groups of bitches (n = 3 or 4/group) representing stages from proestrus through Day 80 of diestrus. Despite dramatic changes in serum concentrations of progesterone, the concentration of luteal receptors for LII and prolactin was quite constant throughout the entire luteal phase. In association with the ovulatory surge of LH, pituitary concentration of LH decreased abruptly from proestrus to Day 2 of diestrus, and was then gradually replenished during the remainder of diestrus. The concentration of prolactin in the pituitary did not vary significantly from proestrus through late
Double diode modeling of time/temperature induced degradation of solar cells

This paper presents a simulation-based analysis of degradation of a solar cell as induced by temperature and/or time. Based on the double diode model (DDM) and using HSPICE, relationships are found between the parameters of the equivalent electrical circuit and efficiency, process variations and optimization in its operation. The results of this paper show that time, temperature and irradiance are of significance in DDM, because they affect the efficiency of a solar cell when degradation occurs.
A STUDY OF NATURAL GROWTH AND OSSIFICATION IN HEREDITARY DWARF MICE1

Hereditary dwarfism in mice has interested geneticists and endocrinologists since 1929, when Snell (1) reported the mutation which behaved as a true Mendelian recessive. However, the dwarfs, being entirely sterile, could be produced only from heterozygous parents. Snell (2) also described their thyroid deficiency, and obtained restorative effects with a thyroid-stimulating extract made from the anterior pituitary which produced body growth and caused fertility in one male. Similar results were obtained by feeding powdered thyroid. The endocrine problem presented by these animals was further outlined and studied by Smith and MacDowell (3, 4), who concluded that no eosinophiles were present in the anterior pituitary, and observed that implants of these pituitaries gave no growth response. Snell (2), MacDowell (5) and MacDowell, Laanes and Smith (6) reported that feeding desiccated thyroid resulted in marked gains in body weight but abnormal growth (fatty subcutaneous and intraperitoneal deposits). Kemp (7),...
The Arabic Online Commentary Dataset: an Annotated Dataset of Informal Arabic with High Dialectal Content

The written form of Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), differs quite a bit from the spoken dialects of Arabic, which are the true "native" languages of Arabic speakers used in daily life. However, due to MSA's prevalence in written form, almost all Arabic datasets have predominantly MSA content. We present the Arabic Online Commentary Dataset, a 52M-word monolingual dataset rich in dialectal content, and we describe our long-term annotation effort to identify the dialect level (and dialect itself) in each sentence of the dataset. So far, we have labeled 108K sentences, 41% of which as having dialectal content. We also present experimental results on the task of automatic dialect identification, using the collected labels for training and evaluation.
Accelerated hematopoietic toxicity by high energy (56)Fe radiation

Purpose: There is little information on the relative toxicity of highly charged (Z) high-energy (HZE) radiation in animal models compared to γ or X-rays, and the general assumption based on in vitro studies has been that acute toxicity is substantially greater.Methods: C57BL/6J mice were irradiated with 56Fe ions (1 GeV/nucleon), and acute (within 30 d) toxicity compared to that of γ rays or protons (1 GeV). To assess relative hematopoietic and gastrointestinal toxicity, the effects of 56Fe ions were compared to γ rays using complete blood count (CBC), bone marrow granulocyte-macrophage colony forming unit (GM-CFU), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay for apoptosis in bone marrow, and intestinal crypt survival.Results: Although onset was more rapid, 56Fe ions were only slightly more toxic than γ rays or protons with lethal dose (LD)50/30 (a radiation dose at which 50% lethality occurs at 30-day) values of 5.8, 7.25, and 6.8 Gy, respectively, with relative biologic ef...
Isolation, partial purification, and characterization of a novel petromyzonol sulfotransferase from Petromyzon marinus (lamprey) larval liver

We have isolated, partially purified, and characterized the 5 alpha-petromyzonol (5 alpha-PZ), (5 alpha-cholan- 3 alpha, 7 alpha, 12 alpha, 24-tetrahydroxy-) sulfotransferase (PZ-SULT) from larval lamprey liver. Crude liver extracts exhibited a PZ-SULT activity of 0.9120 pmol/min/mg in juvenile and 12.62 pmol/min/mg in larvae. Using crude larval liver extracts and various 5 beta-cholan substrates and allocholic acid there was negligible activity, however, with 5 alpha-PZ and 3-keto-5 alpha-PZ the SULT activity was 231.5 pmol/min/mg and 180.8 pmol/min/mg respectively. This established that the sulfotransferase of lamprey larval liver extracts prefers (5 alpha) substrates and it is selective for hydroxyl at C-24. PZ-SULT was purified through various chromatography procedures. Partially purified PZ-SULT exhibited a pH optimum of 8.0, a temperature optimum of 22 degrees C, and activity was linear for 1h. PZ-SULT exhibited a K(m) of 2.5 microM for PAPS and a K(m) of 8 microM for PZ. The affinity purified peak PZ-SULT exhibited a specific activity of 2,038 pmol/min/mg. The peak protein upon SDS-PAGE, correlated to an Mw 47 kDa. Photoaffinity labeling with PAP(35)S, specifically crosslinked the 47 kDa protein, further confirming the identity of PZ-SULT. Partial amino acid sequencing of the putative 47 kDa PZ-SULT protein yielded a peptide sequence (M)SISQAVDAAFXEI, which possessed an overall (approximately 35-40%) homology with mammalian SULT2B1a.
The motion isotropy hypersurface: a characterization of acceleration capability

The study of acceleration capability is concerned with the responsiveness of a manipulator to controller commands. We present a general model for the analysis of end-effector linear and angular accelerations that accounts for the velocity effects. The separate treatment of linear and angular motion directly addresses the inhomogeneities of end-effector motions, avoiding the use of indeterminate scaling factors. The velocity effects considered are the Coriolis and centrifugal forces, as well as the relationships associated with actuator's speed-torque performance curves. This study results in a characterization referred to as the "motion isotropy hypersurface" which describes the relationships between isotropic end-effector linear and angular velocities and accelerations. The utility of this surface and its associated information is demonstrated in a design application involving the PUMA 560 manipulator.
Association of Serum Interleukin-7 Levels With the Development of Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Purpose Morbidity from acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) limits the success of allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) to treat malignancy. Interleukin-7 (IL-7), the principal homeostatic cytokine for T cells, is required for acute GVHD in murine models. In contrast to inflammatory cytokines (eg, IL-2, tumor necrosis factor α), IL-7 has not been studied extensively in the clinical transplant setting relative to its relationship with acute GVHD. Patients and Methods We evaluated the association of serum IL-7 levels with acute GVHD in 31 patients who were uniformly treated in a prospective clinical trial with reduced-intensity allogeneic HSCT from human leukocyte antigen–identical siblings. GVHD prophylaxis consisted of cyclosporine and methotrexate. Serum IL-7 levels and lymphocyte populations were determined at enrollment, the day of transplantation before the allograft infusion, and at specified intervals through 12 months post-transplantation. Results As expected, IL-7 levels were...
Network-Theoretic Approach for Analyzing Connectivity in Air Transportation Networks

Research reported in this paper is motivated by the need to better understand the structure of connectivity in air transportation networks.Theaim istoinvestigateanalysismodelsandtechniquesfrom modernnetworktheoryas a framework to provide both characterization of network structure and a useful systems analysis approach to derive implications from both local and global topology characteristics. Recent developments in network theory establish meanstoquantifytopological structureinamannerthatmayindicateexpectedperformanceandrobustness.Inthis paper, a mathematical footing from network theory is introduced for examining transport networks in the U.S. domestic air transportation system. Using data for the 2004 travel year, the structure of the transport network (service routes between airports) and several subnetworks is exposed in terms of degree distribution, and the importance of airportsis assessed through several networkmeasures. Useful implications are drawn from measures andfurther analysis that directly maps these measures to system performance is presented. The general approachis found to merit further investigation as part of a larger, more comprehensive, and design-oriented systems analysis framework for air transportation.
Interaction of the antiactivator FleN with the transcriptional activator FleQ regulates flagellar number in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Flagellar number in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is controlled by FleN, a putative ATP/GTP binding protein. Disruption of fleN results in multiflagellation of the otherwise monoflagellate strains PAK and PAO1 and is associated with a chemotactic defect. We propose that flagellar number is maintained by the antiactivator FleN, which downregulates flagellar genes by binding to their transcriptional activator, FleQ, an enhancer binding protein belonging to the NifA subfamily. In this report we demonstrate direct interaction of FleN and FleQ in the yeast two-hybrid system. Mutagenesis of the putative ATP/GTP binding motif in FleN24K→Q and truncation of FleN at either the N or C terminus abrogates this interaction. FleN does not inhibit the DNA binding ability of FleQ in vitro, thus indicating that it probably utilizes another mechanism(s) to serve as a FleQ antiactivator.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the airway: a 30-year review at one institution

Abstract Purpose The purpose of the study was to evaluate the treatment results of adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the airway at a single institution during a 30-year period. Materials and methods All cases of ACC of the airway over a 30-year period at one tertiary care institution were reviewed retrospectively. The demographics, treatment modalities, pathologic characteristics, and outcomes were evaluated. Results Eleven patients were treated for ACC of the airway with an age range of 25 to 72 years (median, 48 years). Six patients presented with ACC in the larynx, and 5 patients had ACC of the trachea. All patients underwent surgical excision and radiation; 9 of 11 patients had postoperative external beam radiation, 1 patient had preoperative external beam radiation, and the remaining patient had postoperative neutron beam therapy. Four patients with tracheal ACC and none with laryngeal ACC had microscopic or grossly positive margins after surgery ( P = .048). Eighty percent of patients had perineural invasion on pathology. Two patients with tracheal ACC had local recurrence of disease, which occurred at 1 and 10 months postoperatively. One patient with laryngeal ACC died of distant metastatic disease at 16 months. Follow-up varied from 4 to 168 months (median, 31 months). Conclusions We report high disease-free survival rates for ACC of the airway in patients who underwent definitive surgical resection followed by postoperative radiation. There is a higher risk for local recurrence and positive surgical margins with distal tracheal location. Distant disease ultimately determines survival.
Localization of CD4 and CCR5 in Living Cells

The events preceding human immunodeficiency virus fusion and entry are influenced by the concentration and distribution of receptor and coreceptor molecules on the cell surface. However, the extent to which these proteins colocalize with one another in the cell membrane remains unclear. Using high-resolution deconvolution fluorescent microscopy of living cells, we found that both CD4 and CCR5 accumulate in protruding membrane structures containing actin and ezrin. Although CD4 and CCR5 extensively colocalize in these structures, they do not exist in a stable complex.
Ethics and legal issues

Most individuals who enter the field of medicine are directed by a sense of altruism. Hand in hand with altruism is an ethical sense that is both accepted by the physician and expected by those who seek that physician’s guidance and counsel. Medical ethics are the beacon guiding professional behavior in medicine. Over the years, the medical profession has been held in high esteem in relation to other professions; this is largely due to the personal, intimate, ethical relationship between physician and patient. When physician decisions affect a single patient, maintaining ethical behavior is far simpler than physician decisions affecting the patient’s family and friends or the community at large. Ethical medical behavior is further complicated when decisions have a profound impact, sometimes economic, on a single, highly skilled individual, the individual’s supervisor (or employer), a community of peers (eg, an adoring public), and even the treating physician. Such is the milieu of the team physician. In this setting, seemingly simple medical decisions acquire much more significance. It is this significance that may pressure the physician to veer from a traditional ethical position influenced by the injured athlete, the coach or owner, or the perceived threat of loss of the team physician’s position (ie, status) if ethical but unpopular decisions are made. Ethicists and team physicians have collaborated in this issue of the Clinics in Sports Medicine to present perspectives of the ethical dilemmas confronting team physicians, not to answer unanswerable