cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interfaces in Electrophoresis, Two-Phase Models, and Excitable Media

Three examples of interfaces will be discussed: all of them somewhat away from the mainstream of the conference. They are modelled by “interior transition layers” in solutions of partial differential equations of reaction-diffusion-advection type. It is there fore no surprise that two of the examples are involved with the transport of chemical species in solution; the interface then is formed by the action of competition between a diffusive process, which acts to smooth out the interface, and a force (chemical reaction or applied electric field) which tends to sharpen it. The third example, though not involving chemicals, does have a diffusive type process, related to a Gibbs free energy, and also an aggregative force (a double-well potential wich attempts to force states into one or another of two preferred ones). Interfaces resulting from the balance of diffusive and aggregative forces like this occur in other contexts as well (especially in biology and geophysics). It is hoped therefore that this exposition will serve to be illustrative and also suggestive of phenomena well beyond the confines the specific examples discussed here.
Resistance to pragmatic tendencies in the world of working in the religious finite province of meaning

This essay describes some of the basic pragmatic tendencies at work in the world of working and then shows how the finite provinces of meaning of theoretical contemplation and literature act against those pragmatic tendencies. This analysis prepares the way to see how the religious province of meaning in a similar but also distinctive way acts back against these pragmatic tendencies. These three finite provinces of meaning make it possible to see the world from another center of orientation than that of the ego agens and its proclivity to bring transcendences within reach, thereby freeing oneself to a degree from the fundamental anxiety and revealing the uniqueness of oneself and others, who are no longer subjected to working’s pragmatic imperatives.
Isolation of human synovial-fluid hyaluronate by density-gradient ultracentrifugation and evaluation of its protein content

1. A compound of hyaluronate and protein, called hyaluronate–protein was isolated from pooled human synovial fluids by caesium chloride density-gradient ultracentrifugation. 2. The isolated hyaluronate–protein was labelled with [125I]iodide and the following studies were done. (a) Ultracentrifugation in caesium chloride showed that the protein moiety (125I counts) and hyaluronate (hexuronate) sedimented together in the middle of the gradient. (b) The labelled hyaluronate–protein was treated with trypsin, and ultracentrifugation showed that peptide fragments (125I counts) were dispersed throughout the gradient, indicating proteolytic digestion. Hyaluronate sedimented in the middle of the gradient. (c) The labelled hyaluronate–protein was digested with streptococcal hyaluronidase, and ultracentrifugation showed that hyaluronate fragments were dispersed throughout the gradient, indicating digestion of the polysaccharide. The protein moiety, without attached hyaluronate, now sedimented at the top of the gradient. (d) Ultracentrifugation of labelled hyaluronate–protein in 4m-guanidinium chloride showed that protein and hyaluronate sedimented together. 3. These studies confirm that hyaluronate is combined with a small quantity of protein in normal human synovial fluid. A mild method for the rapid isolation of hyaluronate–protein in good yield is described.
miRNAs and SAMHD1 regulation in vitro and in a model of HIV CNS disease

Pilakka-Kanthikeel et al. recently reported higher levels of the retroviral restriction factor sterile alpha motif and histidine/aspartic acid domain-containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) in astrocytes than in microglia, suggesting that SAMHD1 levels might explain in part the relatively refractory nature of astrocytes to retroviral replication. These findings are consistent with our studies of simian and human immunodeficiency virus infection of astrocytes and macrophages. Similarly, a role for two host microRNAs in post-transcriptional regulation of SAMHD1 agrees with our in vitro results and those of others. However, data from an animal model of HIV neurologic disorders may not be consistent with robust miRNA-mediated regulation of SAMHD1 in vivo.
Self-esteem as a mediator between personality traits and body esteem: path analyses across gender and race/ethnicity.

Prior literature examines the direct relationship between personality traits and body esteem. This article explores the possibility that self-esteem mediates this relationship. 165 undergraduate women and 133 men (age 18–21; 42.6% Hispanic, 28.9% Asian, 28.5% Caucasian) completed items measuring personality traits (Big Five), self-esteem, and body esteem. Path analyses were used to test for mediation. The analyses confirmed that in both men and women self-esteem mediated the relationship between three personality traits and body esteem: higher levels of conscientiousness, emotional stability, and extraversion were associated with higher self-esteem and consequently higher body esteem. Once self-esteem was included in the model the relationships between personality traits and body esteem were not significant, suggesting full mediation. In addition, the analyses revealed several racial/ethnic differences. In Asian American participants, self-esteem mediated the relationship between conscientiousness and body esteem and between emotional stability and body esteem. In Hispanic Americans, self-esteem mediated the relationship between conscientiousness and body esteem and between extraversion and body esteem. And in Caucasian Americans, self-esteem mediated the relationship between emotional stability and body esteem and between extraversion and body esteem. The most important contribution of this study is evidence for an indirect relationship between personality traits and body esteem, with this relationship being mediated by self-esteem. This has important implications for the study of personality and eating disorders in young adults, most particularly implying a need for more emphasis on self-esteem as a predictor of body image problems.
Positive externality, increasing returns, and the rise in cybercrimes

IntroductionThe meteoric rise in cybercrime has been an issue of pressing concern to our society. According to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), nine out of 10 U.S. companies experienced computer security incidents in 2005 which led to a loss of $67.2 billion. A survey conducted by IBM found that U.S. businesses worry more about cybercrimes than about physical crimes. Internet-related frauds accounted for 46% of consumer complaints made to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2005. Total losses of Internet fraud victims reporting to FTC increased from $205 million in 2003 to $336 million in 2005. In a July 2007 interview with USA Today, McAfee CEO reported that his company received 3,000--5,000 threat submissions per day from customers and 10% of them were new.This paper offers an economic analysis to explain cybercrimes' escalation. We define cybercrimes as criminal activities in which computers or computer networks are the principal means of committing an offense. Examples include cyber-theft, cyber-trespass, cyber-obscenity, critical infrastructure attacks and cyber-extortions.6 The most notable features of the cybercrime environment include newness, technology and skill-intensiveness, and a high degree of globalization. Factors such as a wide online availability of hacking tools, information sharing in the cyber-criminal community, availability of experienced hackers' help to less skillful criminals and congestion in law enforcement systems produce externality effects within the cyber-criminal community as well as across society and businesses.We focus on three positive or self-reinforcing feedback systems to examine increasing returns in cybercrime related activities. In this article, we first provide an overview of the positive feedback loops that reinforce cyber-criminals' behavior. Then, we describe mechanisms associated with externality in cybercrime related activities.
Insulin provokes apparent increases in rat adipocyte M-kinase

Abstract Insulin has been shown to stimulate the translocation of protein kinase C (PKC) in rat adipocytes. Presently, we found that decreases in cytosolic 80 kDa PKC were associated with increases in Ca ++ phospholipid -independent protein kinase activity, and increases in a 50 kDa cytosolic protein recognized by anti-PKC antiserum. These findings suggest that insulin provokes increases in M-kinase in rat adipocytes.
Minimizing the lifetime shortfall or shortfall at death

Abstract We find the optimal investment strategy for an individual who seeks to minimize one of four objectives: (1) the probability that his/her wealth reaches a specified ruin level before death, (2) the probability that his/her wealth reaches that level at death, (3) the expectation of how low his/her wealth drops below a specified level before death, and (4) the expectation of how low his/her wealth drops below a specified level at death. Young [Young, V.R., 2004. Optimal investment strategy to minimize the probability of lifetime ruin. N. Am. Actua. J. 8 (4), 105–126] showed that under criterion (1), the optimal investment strategy is a heavily leveraged position in the risky asset for low wealth. In this paper, we introduce the other three criteria in order to reduce the leveraging observed by Young, the above mentioned reference. We discovered that surprisingly the optimal investment strategy for criterion (3) is identical to the one for (1) and that the strategies for (2) and (4) are more leveraged than the one for (1) at low wealth. Because these criteria do not reduce leveraging, we completely remove it by considering problems (1) and (3) under the restriction that the individual cannot borrow to invest in the risky asset.
Passenger seating position and the risk of passenger death or injury in traffic crashes.

Objective: To estimate the association of passenger seat position with the risk of death and serious injury for passengers in traffic crashes. Methods: Using 1993–2000 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Crashworthiness Data System (CDS), the risk ratio for death and serious injury was estimated for rear seat passengers compared with front seat passengers in motor vehicle crashes. Results: The adjusted risk ratio for death of passengers in the rear seat in a crash was 0.61 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46–0.81). Rear seat passenger position was also associated with a decrease in the risk of death and serious injury compared with the front seat passenger position: risk ratio=0.67 (95% CI 0.57–0.78). Conclusion: We estimated that the rear seat passenger position may reduce the risk of death in a motor vehicle crash by about 39% and reduce the risk of death or serious injury in a crash by 33%, compared with the front seat passenger position. If the associations that we report are causal, sitting in the rear seat, compared with the front seat, may prevent about 4 in 10 passenger deaths, or 3 in 10 passenger deaths and injuries, that might otherwise occur.
Selective inhibition of the binding of 3H-(3-MeHis2) thyrotropin releasing hormone to rat amygdala membranes by some naturally occurring cannabinoids.

Abstract The effect of naturally occurring cannabinoids, delta 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN) and cannabidiol (CBD), on the brain receptors for thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) was investigated. TRH receptors were labeled with 3 H-(3-MeHis 2 TRH ( 3 H-MeTRH). 3 H-MeTRH bound specifically to rat brain membranes at a single high affinity site with a B max value of 49.2±0.96fmol per mg protein and a K d value of 3.83±0.12nM. The binding of 3 H-MeTRH to whole brain membranes was inhibited when rats were injected intraperitoneally with 3 to 30 mg/kg of THC. The extent of inhibition in the binding at 10 and 30 mg/kg was similar. THC (10 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the binding of 3 H-MeTRH to amygdala membranes but did not affect the binding to membranes prepared from hippocampus, septum, cortex, striatum and the rest of the brain. THC, CBN and CBD in doses of 3 to 30 mg/kg did not affect the binding of 3 H-MeTRH to hypothalamic membranes. All the three cannabinoids at 30 mg/kg inhibited the binding of 3 H-MeTRH to amygdala membranes. The inhibition in the binding of 3 H-MeTRH by the cannabinoids was due to changes in the K d values but the B max values remained unchanged. It is concluded that both psychotomimetic and nonpsychotomimetic cannabinoids inhibit the binding of 3 H-MeTR to amygdala membranes selectively, which is accomplished by decreases in the affinity of the ligand to receptors, and the amygdala may be an important brain area in some of the actions of cannabinoids.
A note on a block preconditioner

Abstract The well known block preconditioning technique is modified to suit certain ill-conditioned linear systems arising in reservoir modelling, semiconductor simulation and other fields of applications. Incorporated into the conjugate or biconjugate gradients algorithm, the proposed preconditioner gives a significant improvement in the condition number and the resulting convergence rate.
The determination of quartz using differential scanning calorimetry

Abstract Based on the results of this feasibility study, differential scanning calorimetry appears to be a promising technique for determining quartz in powdered samples. The method can avoid interferences, uses relatively inexpensive equipment compared to many of the more conventional techniques, and requires minimal operator skill. For samples containing quartz only, the method has good precision and sensitivity and exhibits a linear response for a wide range (20–10 000 μg) of quartz contents. Although as little as 20 μg of quartz could be detected, the lower limit of detection was not determined. Also, estimates of accuracy and precision for quartz in sample mixtures are still needed. It is likely that optimization of instrumental and sample mounting parameters will result in improved peak response, detection limits, and precision.
Information Technology for Career Assessment on the Internet

Vocational psychology faces a number of challenges in the next century from the globalization of economies to the changing nature of work and the workforce. Many of the changes facing our profession stem from the explosion in communication technologies during the last 20 years. The Internet is perhaps the most visible of these new technologies. If vocational specialists are to embrace this new technology, they must first arm themselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to utilize it responsibly and efficiently. This article provides both an overview of modern Internet technologies and a discussion of their potential benefits to professionals who wish to engage in Internet-based career assessment.
Postmodernism, Urban Ethnography, and the New Social Space of Ethnic Identity

The relentlessly self-reflexive ways of representing reality now fashionably termed "postmodern" are flourishing in an increasingly wide range of domains. In social theory, postmodernism has been used to characterize the diverse philosophical work of such Continental post-structuralist theorists as Baudrillard, Lyotard, Derrida, and Foucault. Commentators have identified a multiplicity of other postmodernisms in architecture, the visual arts, literature, performance, television, video, film, music, and fashion.1 The term has entered the debate on urban form largely by way of the impact of postmodern architecture on the built environment of cities. It has entered the realm of urban theory by way of debates in urban sociology, anthropology, geography, and political science, on the interplay among global socio-spatial restructuring, the cultural transformation of cities, the formation of personal identities, and the politics of collective action.
Calorimetry within hysteresis loops: Application to LaNi5H

Abstract Calorimetric data are reported at 298 K for H2 absorption within the hysteresis gap for the LaNi5H system. Relative partial molar enthalpies for H2 absorption were determined along an absorption hysteresis scan commencing from the desorption pressure plateau and ending near the absorption plateau. These enthalpic data can be explained if H2 absorption consists of two processes: reversible H2 solution into the two coexisting solid phases and formation of some hydride phase. The contribution of the latter to a hysteresis scan increases from essentially zero adjacent to the desorption plateau to a large fraction near the absorption plateau. The enthalpies for H2 solution adjacent to the desorption plateau, the reversible region of the scans, as a function of the overall hydrogen content can provide a useful method for the determination of the relative partial enthalpies for H2 solution in the coexisting single phases. The enthalpies for the reversible solution of H2 must approach the values for the coexisting single phases at the phase boundaries. This method gives for the relative partial molar enthalpies of the single phases values of −13.5 kJ (mol H)−1 and − 16.8 kJ mol−1 for the hydrogen-saturated solid and the hydride phase respectively. Since the enthalpy change for the reaction 1 2 H 2 ( g ) + α → β is −14.8 kJ mol−1, it is clear that small discontinuities in the thermodynamic parameters exist at the phase boundaries. Previously direct measurements in the single-phase regions did not detect these small differences, caused in part by the difficulty in locating the hydride phase boundary. Remeasurement of the partial enthalpies in the primary solubility region (α phase) support the present result from hysteresis scan calorimetry. It is shown that the method of hysteresis scan calorimetry is useful for the determination of thermodynamic parameters for coexisting single phases in structural transformation systems such as LaNi5H.
Continuous congestion control for Differentiated-Services networks?

Network traffic in the transport layer of end-to-end congestion networks plays a vital role in effecting the throughput in the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer. Common queue length management techniques on nodes in such networks focus on servicing the packets based on their Quality of Service (QoS) requirements (e.g., Differentiated-Services, or DiffServ, networks). In this paper, a continuous control strategy is suggested for a DiffServ network to track the desired ensemble average queue length level specified by the network operator. A Lyapunov-based stability analysis is provided to illustrate global asymptotic tracking, and simulations demonstrate the performance and feasibility of the controller, along with showing global asymptotic tracking of the queue lengths in the Premium Service buffer.
High-resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry of humic and fulvic acids by laser desorption/ionization and electrospray ionization

High-field (9.4 T) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectra of standard Suwannee River humic and fulvic acids have been obtained by use of laser desorption (LDI) and electrospray (ESI) ionization. The LDI FT-ICR mass spectrum was similar to those observed previously, with ions at essentially every nominal value, 200 ≤ m/z ≤ 800. In contrast, the ESI FT-ICR mass spectrum, although still containing ions at most values in the 200 ≤ m/z ≤ 800 range, was dominated by a relatively few prominent species. ESI FT-ICR mass spectra of standard humic and fulvic acid isolates were similar. Although many ionic species appeared in both fulvic acid and humic acid ESI FT-ICR mass spectra, the fulvic acid mass spectrum contained more highly charged species. Subfractions of the fulvic acid mixture isolated by an HPLC procedure yielded similar mass spectra. The stability of high-mass ions produced by ESI combined with the high-mass resolution capability of FT-ICR MS allow for precise determination of m...
A reassessment of Normania and Triguera (Solanaceae)

Normania and Triguera comprise two genera of the Solanaceae whose affinities have been uncertain. Normania encompasses two species endemic to Macaronesia; Triguera is monotypic and found in Spain and northwestern Africa. Both have slightly zygomorphic flowers and horned anthers that dehisce by both apical pores and longitudinal slits. Micromorphological similarities include trichotomously colporate pollen grains and seed surface cells with radially thickened extensions. Molecular data from the chloroplast ndh F gene and the nuclear ITS region establish that Normania and Triguera are nested within the large genus Solanum, where together they form a well supported clade. However, the relationship of this clade to other Solanum subgroups is not resolved. Transfer of the Normania and Triguera epithets to Solanum is made, necessitating one new name. The molecular data confirm that the species of Solanum endemic to Macaronesia belong to two distinct clades, each showing an independent evolution of heteromorphic anthers.
Frailty and Multiple Comorbidities in the Elderly Patient with Heart Failure: Implications for Management

Heart failure (HF) in the elderly is a major public health problem, and its prevalence is rising. Outcomes of HF in the elderly have not changed in the past 2 decades despite the introduction of novel HF therapies. This may be due to the combined impact of multiple comorbidities and frailty. The majority of elderly patients with HF are frail with multiple comorbidities. These comorbidities, along with frailty, contribute to the poor outcome of HF in the elderly and pose independent management challenges. More research is needed to better understand the interaction between frailty and multiple comorbidities and the mechanisms by which they impact HF and its management; develop prognostic tools that incorporate frailty and multiple comorbidities and provide more accurate prediction of outcomes; test available treatments in typical elderly patients; and develop and test novel interventions that directly address the adverse impact of multiple comorbidities and frailty.
Self-aligned critical line for LSI yield improvement

This paper proposes a data management method which can characterize a process-stableness efficiently for an LSI yield improvement. Generally, a process capability of a wafer-processing improves day by day, though the yield suddenly degrades by some incidents. Thus, we define a tolerance for each measurement data in a conventional evaluation system, then, we must reduce each tolerance timely after the capability improving.
Identification of Soluble Binding Proteins for an Insect Neuropeptide

A photoaffinity analog of Helicoverpa zea pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (Hez-PBAN) was used to identify PBAN binding proteins in various tissues of the corn earworm moth, H. zea. Synthetic Hez-PBAN was derivatized on Lys-27 with p-benzoyldihydrocinnamoyl-N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (BZDC-NHS ester). The resulting BZDC-PBAN stimulated pheromone production in H. zea isolated abdomens at levels comparable to those of the unmodified peptide. Photoaffinity labeling experiments using [3H]BZDC-PBAN with female moth tissues revealed soluble 100 and 115 kDa proteins in the brain-subesophageal ganglia complex, ventral nerve cord, and thoracic muscle that were specifically labeled with the PBAN analog.
Antifreeze glycoprotein biosynthesis in antarctic fishes

Abstract 1. 1. The synthesis and secretion of antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGP) and other plasma proteins has been examined by 14 C-alanine pulse-labelling in the Antarctic cod ( Dissostichus mawsoni ) at − 1.5°C. 2. 2. Protein synthetic rates (μg/hr per g liver) were estimated to be 130 for intrahepatic proteins, 75 for plasma proteins, and 2 for AFGP polypeptide. 3. 3. Time constants for secretion events have been obtained by kinetic analysis and compared with results in a temperate fish and in mammals.
Chemical pumping of the far infrared HCN laser

Abstract This paper reports the observation of 337 μm and 311 μm stimulated emission from HCN in which the (11 1 0)−(04 0 0) inversion has been established by photopumping of HCN and by chemical pumping with reactions between CN and H 2 or saturated hydrogen-rich organic compounds. Similarities in output pulse behavior between the discharge and chemical versions of the HCN laser are suggestive that the pumping mechanism in the discharge is the chemical reaction, CN + H 2 → HCN † + H. The well-known inefficiency of this laser is then due to the fact that the reaction is a slow one and its exothermicity does not match the energy of the upper lasing level, but depends for inversion on (randomizing) relaxation into (11 1 0) among others. Substantial improvements in the power of the HCN laser cannot be made from this route.
The idea of the medieval in the writing of South Asian history: contexts, methods and politics

The concept of the ‘medieval’ in South Asia has been a long and contested one. From its origins among colonial administrators to its present-day habitation in educational institutions, the study of...
Intramolecular and overall motion of proline: the influence of viscosity on carbon-13 spin-lattice relaxation times.

Nuclear magnetic resonance of 13C is used to probe the overall and internal motions of proline. Spin-lattice relaxation times (T1) are reported for proline monomer dissolved in water/glycerol mixtures. Rates of overall molecular motion and internal motion depend on solvent composition but to different degrees. The effective correlation times (τeff) of the various proton-bearing carbon atoms in proline vary linearly as a function of solvent composition (%v/v) rather than of solution viscosity. The effective correlation time for molecular motion (τeff) is separated into contributions from overall molecular motion (τmol) and internal motion (τint). The γ-carbon of proline shows the smallest dependence of τint on solvent composition. The data indicate a high degree of intramolecular motion for the γ-carbon of proline. Inclusion of anisotropic molecular reorientation in the data analysis was found not to affect the above conclusions. The observed values of τeff indicate that the rotational diffusion model of molecular reorientations should apply to proline. The values of τeff calculated for proline using the Stokes-Einstein relation are larger than those observed; the discrepancy is discussed in terms of solvent-solute interactions.
The Decorated Diagram: Harvard Architecture and the Failure of the Bauhaus Legacy

(1985). The Decorated Diagram: Harvard Architecture and the Failure of the Bauhaus Legacy. Journal of Architectural Education: Vol. 38, No. 2, pp. 30-31.
On the limits of expert systems and engineering models in process control

Abstract The review is based on an analysis of current literature of expert systems and of system engineering models in dynamic process control. It starts with an analysis of the mental operations and cognitive requirements needed for supervisory control. Mental models are discussed as a function of situational requirements as well as of personal strategies. Systems engineering models and expert systems are briefly described and their function as decision support tools evaluated. Criteria are the overall functionality, similarity of knowledge bases and reasoning strategies of the human and the support system, adaptability to the operator's skill level and self-explanation of the support system in the interaction mode. As a result, system engineering models are only of limited value for knowledge-based process control. Expert systems seem to be very valuable tools for augmenting human decision making in process control, if the interaction problem can be solved.
Experimental Investigation of Vibratory Finishing Process

The vibratory finishing process is widely used for finishing metal components. An experimental investigation is reported on the factors affecting the metal removal and resultant surface roughness during vibratory finishing including the influence of chemical solutions. The effect of process parameters such as media size and impact frequency is studied by measuring the contact forces. A method to investigate the effect of chemical solution and to optimize the processing time to achieve desired resultant surface roughness is presented.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Evaluation of a PACS for CT and MR: film system compared to PACS

management system for CT and MRI examinations. This comparison demonstrates that film hardcopy recording can bereduced if the clinical faculty well utilize grayscale monitors in developing diagnostic consultation reporting.1. INTRODUCTIONThe utilization of PACS for intra- and inter-departmental utilization has gained significant attention in the pastyear. Depariments are installing modality specific systems, such as CTand MRI, which provide electronic managementofthe digitalimages. The long-term goals of a PACS are the following: (a) improve patient care; (b) conserve resources;(c) improve access to information; and (d) timeliness of consultation by the radiologists. Typical measurements
Fibroinflammatory Biliary Stricture: A Rare Bile Duct Lesion Masquerading as Cholangiocarcinoma

Introduction Fibroinflammatory biliary stricture (FIBS) is a rare benign tumor-like process of the extrahepatic bile duct that masquerades as cholangiocarcinoma.
Tracheal Compression Caused by Traumatic Thoracic Duct Leak

A man with traumatic thoracic duct injury developed a lymphocele causing upper airway obstruction. Despite drainage of the chylothorax, tracheal compression persisted due to a thoracic duct tear. Operative repair of the tear resulted in resolution of the airway obstruction.
Some aspects of the initiation of protein synthesis in Crithidia fasciculata and Tetrahymena pyriformis

1. 1. The growth of the ciliate, Tetrahymena pyriformis, is inhibited by a number of dipeptides in the presence of suboptimal concentrations of folate. 2. 2. Its growth is also sensitive to chloramphenicol and does not occur in the absence of folate. The reverse is true of the kinetoplastid flagellate, Crithidia fasciculata. 3. 3. It is suggested that the initiation of protein synthesis in the kinetoplast-mitochondrion does not require a formylated species of aminoacyl-tRNA or that the proteins of the organelle may be cytoplasmic in origin.
The induction of STAT1 gene by activating transcription factor 3 contributes to pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and its dysfunction in streptozotocin-treated mice

It is well established that the IFN-gamma/STAT1 pathway plays an important role in the pancreatic beta-cell apoptosis that is observed in STZ-induced type 1 diabetes; however, the upstream regulatory proteins involved have not been understood. Here, we investigated whether activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) affects STAT1-mediated beta-cell dysfunction and apoptosis in streptozotocin-treated mice. To this, STZ (80 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to wild-type and STAT1(-/-) or IFN-gamma(-/-) mice for 5 days and the mice were euthanized after 14 days. STZ-induced beta-cell dysfunction and apoptosis were associated with increased STAT1/IRF-1 and ATF3 expression and were correlated with elevated IFN-gamma levels. Genetic depletion using IFN-gamma(-/-) or STAT1(-/-) mice strongly inhibited the reduction of islet cell mass or insulin synthesis/secretion and the increase of beta-cell apoptosis observed in STZ-treated wild-type mice. ATF3 overexpression, especially the C-terminal domain, strongly enhanced beta-cell dysfunction and apoptosis by enhancing STAT1 activation and its accumulation, which were abolished with an ATF3-specific siRNA or C-terminal-deleted ATF3. The STZ induction of ATF3 was completely depleted in IFN-gamma(-/-) mice, but not in STAT1(-/-) mice. Furthermore, STAT1 did not affect ATF3 expression, but STAT1 depletion or its inactivation inhibited STZ-induced ATF3 nuclear translocation and beta-cell apoptosis. Interestingly, ATF3 also increased STAT1 transcription by directly binding to a putative binding region (-116 to -96 bp) in the STAT1 promoter. Our results suggest that ATF3 functions as a potent upstream regulator of STAT1 and ATF3 may play a role in STZ-induced beta-cell dysfunction by enhancing the steady state abundance of STAT1.
“n-Doping” of Deltahedral Zintl Ions

We report a simple and efficient method for replacing germanium atoms in deltahedral Ge94− clusters with Sb or Bi. While reactions of Ge94− with EPh3 (E = Sb, Bi) at room temperature are known to produce mono- and disubstituted clusters [Ph2E-Ge9-Ge9-EPh2]4− and [Ph2E-Ge9-EPh2]2−, respectively, at elevated temperatures or with sonication they result in exchange of Ge cluster atoms with Sb or Bi. Structurally characterized from such reactions are the novel “n-doped” deltahedral Zintl ions [(EGe8)-(Ge8E)]4−, (Sb2Ge7)2−, and [(SbGe8)-SbPh2]2−.
RNA folding pathways and the self-assembly of ribosomes.

Many RNAs do not directly code proteins but are nonetheless indispensable to cellular function. These strands fold into intricate three-dimensional shapes that are essential structures in protein synthesis, splicing, and many other processes of gene regulation and expression. A variety of biophysical and biochemical methods are now showing, in real time, how ribosomal subunits and other ribonucleoprotein complexes assemble from their molecular components. Footprinting methods are particularly useful for studying the folding of long RNAs: they provide quantitative information about the conformational state of each residue and require little material. Data from footprinting complement the global information available from small-angle X-ray scattering or cryo-electron microscopy, as well as the dynamic information derived from single-molecule Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and NMR methods. In this Account, I discuss how we have used hydroxyl radical footprinting and other experimental methods to st...
BIOSYNTHESIS AND METABOLISM OF (14C)SCLAREOL.

Abstract The incorporation of sodium[2-14C]acetate and [2-14C]mevalonic acid into sclareol and digitonon-precipitable sterol (largely β-sitosterol) of Salvia sclarea was studied over intervals of 4 h to 1 week. The incorporation of both precursors into sclareol at all intervals was practically nil; incorporation into sterol and a partially purified acidic triterpene fraction was low but significant, in agreement with previously published work. The incorporation of [2-14C]mevalonic acid in high percentage into fractions containing the diterpene and sterol, respectively, suggest competition for the labeled substrates by some other (and unknown) terpenoid substances within the plant. A high degree of compartmentalization, restricting access of labeled substrate to the synthetic site, may also account for the low degree of incorporation of [2-14C]mevalonic acid into sclareol. [14C]Sclareol of high specific activity was obtained by exposing plant cuttings to 14CO2. A differential rate of incorporation of 14CO2 into sclareol and β-sitosterol was observed; its significance is not known. Possible metabolism of sclareol to other substance within S. sclarea was indicated by a preliminary experiment.
NEONATAL PHYSIOLOGICAL REGULATION IS ASSOCIATED WITH PERINATAL FACTORS : A STUDY OF NEONATES BORN TO HEALTHY AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN LIVING IN POVERTY

Maternal mental health and prenatal stress are linked with neurobehavioral differences in the offspring. The majority of studies documenting this effect have been conducted using either predominantly European American infants or minority infants exposed to teratogens in utero. In this study, we focus on healthy African American women from low-income environments to investigate the earliest individual differences in biobehavioral regulation, including resting heart rate and variability (HRV). In 87 neonates, HRV was significantly lower in those born to mothers reporting past major depressive disorder (p = .01). The number of maternal life stressors also was associated with lower neonatal HRV (p = .03). Obstetrical complications were not associated with significant differences, but breast- versus bottle-feeding in the first few days of life was related to higher HRV (p = .04). Early variation in physiological regulation may be linked to subsequent individual differences in response to stress. Thus, identifying the earliest point in development when such differences can be reliably measured may result in opportunities for prevention of later deficits in regulating response to stress.
Calculation of z-coordinates and orientational restraints using a metal binding tag.

We introduce a new simple methodology allowing the measurement of 1H-15N residual dipolar couplings, dipolar shifts, and unpaired electron−amide proton distances. This method utilizes a zinc finger...
Ultramicrodetection of Amino Acids by GLC

Abstract A method has been developed for the separation and qualitative detection of 11 amino acids at the picogram level, which uses a derivatization new to the area of gas-chromatographic analysis. Phosphorus-containing derivatives were selected to allow selective and hypersensitive determination with a modified version of the alkali-flame detector. This method comprises the formation of the N-diethyl phosphate amino acid methyl esters and subsequent gas-chromatographic separation and analysis. The minimum detectable limit for alanine (response-noise, 2:1) was found to be ca. 5 × 10−12 g injected. The method should be applicable to the investigation of very small amounts of naturally occurring amino acids and peptides, as was shown with gramicidin-S. A gas-chromatographic analysis of 250 pg of gramicidin-S was found to yield clearly discernible peaks for valine, leucine, proline, and phenylalanine.
“Alfonse, you have a message!”

Synchronization of multiple threads in a Java program using the built-in features of the language has serious pitfalls for the programmer, particularly if a thread is interrupted while waiting inside a monitor. These concerns have lead to a movement to avoid Java monitors altogether and use message passing instead. This paper visits the field of concurrent programming to show that replacing all Java monitors with message passing is an overreaction to these problems.
On the Feasibility of Scheduling Lot Sizes for Two Products on One Machine

We are concerned with scheduling several products that, require processing or a single machine. Routine application of the economic lot size formula to each product separately, often yields an infeasiable schedule in the sense that there are times when it specifies simultaneous production of two or more products. Feasibility is guaranteed if a common cycle length and thus equal set-ups per year per product is chosen. However it is possible to find schedules by allowing variations in the number of set-ups among the products which cost less than the cost of the common cycle length schedule. In this paper we present a necessary and sufficient condition for the feasibility of scheduling two products, when the number of set-ups for each product are givers. Also a method of constructing the schedules is discussed.
Theoretical-Experimental Studies of Electric Field-Induced Cell Responses

Tissue injury results in induction of endogenous electric field (EF) that mediates biophysical interactions in the ionic wound environment, which play a crucial role in tissue repair. Externally applied EF may therefore provide a promising therapeutic approach for wound healing; however, information on EF-cell interactions in the wound is limited. This research presents a combined theoretical-experimental approach to study EF interactions with fibroblasts (FBs) in vitro. The cell is modeled as a membrane-enclosed hemisphere surrounded by electrolyte. Maxwell's equations are solved numerically (ANSYS-HFSS) to obtain 3D EF distribution inside and near the cell subjected to an externally applied EF. Experimentally, FBs were exposed to the EF in a parallel-plate capacitor for 72 hours; cell morphology, proliferation and expression of pro-angiogenic growth factors were assessed. Theoretical results demonstrate the spatially-varying EF distribution in the cell membrane, where induced potential may be sufficient to regulate voltage-gated ion channel activation. Cell exposure to the EF resulted in significantly increased expression of placenta growth factor but no change in other parameters. Ongoing studies will determine the role of EF-mediated activation of voltage-gated channels in the cellular response, contributing to development of EF-based therapies for tissue repair.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
MICHAEL POLANYI'S DARING EPISTEMOLOGY AND THE HUNGER FOR TELEOLOGY

Abstract. The linking of Michael Polanyi's name with a center (now changed to another name) at Baylor University that espoused intelligent-design theory calls for examination of Polanyi's teleology. This examination attempts to put Polanyi's epistemology in the perspective of his total philosophical work by looking at the clarification of teleology in philosophy of biology and in the framework of three major features of Polanyi's thought: open and truth-oriented, purposive but open to truth, and transcendent yet intelligible. The conclusion is that Polanyi would not support intelligent design according to the nature of his own theory.
Sickle cell patient with an acute chest syndrome and a negative chest X-ray: potential role of the ventilation and perfusion (V/Q) lung scan.

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) in sickle cell disease is caused by thromboemboli in the pulmonary vasculature. The diagnostic criteria include the presence of pulmonary infiltrate(s) on chest x-ray. This case report suggests that a V/Q scan may play a diagnostic role in sickle cell patients with symptoms of ACS and a negative chest x-ray.
Reversal of Soft-tissue Anesthesia in Asymptomatic Endodontic Patients: A Preliminary, Prospective, Randomized, Single-blind Study

Abstract Introduction Phentolamine has been reported to be an effective local anesthetic reversal agent for soft tissue but has not been studied in endodontics. The purpose of this preliminary, prospective, randomized, single-blind study was to evaluate the reversal of soft-tissue anesthesia using phentolamine in asymptomatic endodontic patients. Methods Eighty-five adult subjects having a maxillary or mandibular asymptomatic tooth requiring endodontic therapy received either phentolamine or sham treatment(s) at the end of the endodontic treatment appointment. Soft-tissue anesthesia was monitored by subjects every 15 minutes for 5 hours. Subjects reported postoperative injection site pain and tooth pain using a Heft-Parker visual analog score every 30 minutes for the first 2 postoperative hours and every hour for 3 hours. Results There was a statistically significant difference in time to return-to-normal sensation for the maxillary lip/cheek and mandibular lip. Subjects who received phentolamine experienced an 88-minute decrease in time to return-to-normal maxillary lip/cheek sensation and a 47-minute decrease in time to return-to-normal mandibular lip sensation. The administration of phentolamine was not significantly more painful than administration of a sham treatment, and patients who received phentolamine did not experience significantly more postoperative pain at the injection site. Postoperative complications were minimal, and no clinically significant adverse reactions to the phentolamine were reported. Conclusions Phentolamine would be beneficial for asymptomatic endodontic patients who would like to experience a faster return-to-normal soft-tissue function and sensation after the administration of local anesthesia.
Chloride channel 7 (ClCN7) gene mutations and autosomal dominant osteopetrosis, type II.

ADO2 is an uncommon sclerosing bone disorder with incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. Positional candidate studies were performed to identify the gene responsible for ADO2. In 11 of 12 kindreds, five different missense mutations were identified in the ClCN7 gene, indicating the genetic basis and possible dominant negative mechanism for ADO2. Introduction: Autosomal dominant osteopetrosis, type II (ADO2) is an uncommon sclerosing bone disorder with a distinct radiographic appearance and unique clinical characteristics. We present the results from our genetic studies designed to identify the ADO2 gene through a positional candidate approach. Methods: Having identified 12 families with ADO2, we initially performed linkage studies in our seven largest kindreds and observed a summed maximum LOD score of 15.91 at marker D16S521 on chromosome 16p13.3. Critical meiotic recombination events further narrowed the putative gene region to a 7.6-cM area, which contains the candidate genes ATP6L and chloride channel 7 (ClCN7). We screened affected individuals from each ADO2 family for mutations in these genes using direct sequencing. Identified mutations were subsequently confirmed through direct sequencing or restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. We then calculated the overall disease penetrance rate after all available at-risk family members were assessed for ClCN7 gene mutations. Results: No ATP6L mutations were identified in affected subjects. Subsequently, as ClCN7 gene mutations were being reported, we identified two novel (L213F, R762L) and three known (G215R, R286W, R767W) missense mutations in 11 kindreds. In our large sample, disease penetrance was 66% (62 clinically affected individuals/94 subjects with the gene mutation). To date, nine different mutations have been discovered in the ClCN7 gene in 22 of 23 ADO2 families studied. Conclusions:We conclude that mutations in the ClCN7 gene are responsible for ADO2 and that genetic heterogeneity is unlikely to exist in this disorder. Based on the preponderance of missense mutations and the knowledge that chloride channels probably function as dimers, it seems that heterozygous ClCN7 gene mutations may cause ADO2 through a dominant negative mechanism.
Cell type- and cell cycle-specific anti-mitogenesis by cicaprost

Abstract Stents eluting anti-proliferative drugs limit restenosis, but drugs commonly used to date are relatively non-specific cytostatic agents which inhibit proliferation of intimal endothelial cells as well as medial smooth muscle cells and may thereby contribute to the clinical complications associated with angioplasty. In an effort to identify a more specific anti-proliferative agent, we compared the effects of rapamycin to those of cicaprost, a mimetic of the naturally occurring anti-mitogen, PGI 2 . Rapamycin and cicaprost were both strongly anti-mitogenic in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). But unlike rapamycin, cicaprost did not inhibit mitogenesis in aortic endothelial cells even when used at concentrations >10-fold higher than its ED 50 for VSMCs. Similarly, both rapamycin and cicaprost have been reported to regulate levels of the cdk inhibitor, p27 kip1 . But rapamycin remained anti-mitogenic in p27 kip1 -null VSMCs whereas the anti-mitogenic effect of cicaprost was completely dependent on p27 kip1 . We conclude that stable PGI 2 mimetics may be highly specific inhibitors of p27 kip1 -dependent VSMC proliferation after vascular injury.