cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prostaglandin F2alpha Upregulates Uterine Immune Defenses in the Presence of the Immunosuppressive Steroid Progesterone

Problem Uterine infections often develop in some livestock species during the first luteal phase postpartum. Exogenous prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) induces luteolysis, reduces progesterone, and enables the uterus to resolve infections. However, the effects of PGF(2alpha) on luteal function and on immune functions are confounded. These effects must be disentangled to determine whether alternatives to antibiotic treatments can be successfully developed. Method of study Treatments were in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Main effects were ovariectomy or sham on day 0 (i.e. estrus), exogenous progesterone or sesame oil from day 0 to 11, and exogenous PGF(2alpha) or saline on day 9. Intrauterine inoculations with Arcanobacterium pyogenes and Escherichia coli were administered on day 6. Results Ewes treated with exogenous PGF(2alpha) either did not have uterine infections, infections were less severe, or infections were resolving when uteri were examined on day 12, despite increased progesterone. Conclusions Exogenous PGF(2alpha) has effects on the resolution of uterine infections that are independent of its effects on luteal progesterone production.
URINARY ŒSTROGEN PROFILES AND ÆTIOLOGY OF BREAST CANCER

Abstract The hypothesis set out here explores the relationship between breast cancer and urinary œstrogen profile. An earlier hypothesis, propounded by other workers, embodied the concept that œstriol was non-carcinogenic but that œstradiol and œstrone were carcinogenic: thus ratios of urinary levels of œstriol to œstradiol plus œstrone might be indicative of cancer risk. But this idea totally neglected a role for hormones of the anterior pituitary. It is suggested here that œstrogenic profiles might indeed yield useful information, not because of any direct carcinogenic effect but because of the interaction of these hormones with the trophic hormones of the anterior pituitary. Epidemiological evidence of a role for œstrogenic activity in the aetiology of breast cancer (the low risk in women undergoing oophorectomy before the age of 40, the low risk associated with first pregnancy before the age of 20, and the relatively low risk in Japanese women) is reconsidered with the whole ovarian/pituitary axis in mind.
Chemotherapeutic Sensitization of Leptomycin B Resistant Lung Cancer Cells by Pretreatment with Doxorubicin

The development of novel targeted therapies has become an important research focus for lung cancer treatment. Our previous study has shown leptomycin B (LMB) significantly inhibited proliferation of lung cancer cells; however, p53 wild type lung cancer cells were resistant to LMB. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a novel therapeutic strategy to sensitize LMB-resistant lung cancer cells by combining LMB and doxorubicin (DOX). Among the different treatment regimens, pretreatment with DOX (pre-DOX) and subsequent treatment with LMB to A549 cells significantly decreased the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) as compared to that of LMB alone (4.4 nM vs. 10.6 nM, P<0.05). Analysis of cell cycle and apoptosis by flow cytometry further confirmed the cytotoxic data. To investigate molecular mechanisms for this drug combination effects, p53 pathways were analyzed by Western blot, and nuclear proteome was evaluated by two dimensional-difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) and mass spectrometry. In comparison with control groups, the levels of p53, phospho-p53 (ser15), and p21 proteins were significantly increased while phospho-p53 (Thr55) and survivin were significantly decreased after treatments of pre-DOX and LMB (P<0.05). The 2D-DIGE/MS analysis identified that sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/p62) had a significant increase in pre-DOX and LMB-treated cells (P<0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that drug-resistant lung cancer cells with p53 wild type could be sensitized to cell death by scheduled combination treatment of DOX and LMB through activating and restoring p53 as well as potentially other signaling pathway(s) involving sequestosome 1.
Phase transformation during hot-pressing of cubic SiC

Abstract The polytypic transformations occurring during hot-pressing from 1600 to 2100°C of cubic silicon carbide containing 2 wt.% Al 2 O 3 have been studied by x-ray diffraction. The 6H and 4H polytypes are formed at 1800 and 1900°C respectively. Above 2000°C, the cubic (3C) phase is not stable and disappears. Theoretical patterns of the 3C, 2H, 4H and 6H polytypes were generated by computer and used in the analysis of the experimental data.
Differential regulation of a CLC anion channel by SPAK kinase ortholog-mediated multisite phosphorylation

Shrinkage-induced inhibition of the Caenorhabditis elegans cell volume and cell cycle-dependent CLC anion channel CLH-3b occurs by concomitant phosphorylation of S742 and S747, which are located on a 175 amino acid linker domain between cystathionine-β-synthase 1 (CBS1) and CBS2. Phosphorylation is mediated by the SPAK kinase homolog GCK-3 and is mimicked by substituting serine residues with glutamate. Type 1 serine/threonine protein phosphatases mediate swelling-induced channel dephosphorylation. S742E/S747E double mutant channels are constitutively inactive and cannot be activated by cell swelling. S742E and S747E mutant channels were fully active in the absence of GCK-3 and were inactive when coexpressed with the kinase. Both channels responded to cell volume changes. However, the S747E mutant channel activated and inactivated in response to cell swelling and shrinkage, respectively, much more slowly than either wild-type or S742E mutant channels. Slower activation and inactivation of S747E was not due to altered rates of dephosphorylation or dephosphorylation-dependent conformational changes. GCK-3 binds to the 175 amino acid inter-CBS linker domain. Coexpression of wild-type CLH-3b and GCK-3 with either wild-type or S742E linkers gave rise to similar channel activity and regulation. In contrast, coexpression with the S747E linker greatly enhanced basal channel activity and increased the rate of shrinkage-induced channel inactivation. Our findings suggest the intriguing possibility that the phosphorylation state of S742 in S747E mutant channels modulates GCK-3/channel interaction and hence channel phosphorylation. These results provide a foundation for further detailed studies of the role of multisite phosphorylation in regulating CLH-3b and GCK-3 activity.
Using a model-driven transformational approach and service-oriented architecture for service delivery management

IT (information technology) service providers often assume that efficient and effective service delivery can be achieved by migrating to a standard set of tools. This assumption is true only if the service provider has monolithic control over the scope and architecture of the customer environment. The trend, however, is toward selective outsourcing, customer control over the architecture of IT solutions, and retention of legacy tools. Target environments are extremely heterogeneous, and the ability of the service provider to control them is diminishing. Consequently, there is a need for a new approach to IT service workflow automation and a new generation of service-delivery management systems that support heterogeneity and collaboration. This paper introduces a new approach to automating complex and variable workflows, applies this approach to IT service delivery management (SDM), presents an SDM architecture based on this approach, and discusses an SDM implementation driven by this architecture. Our implementation architecture leverages service-oriented architecture (SOA) principles by defining loosely coupled service components and a service fulfillment pattern that dynamically integrates them. We discuss the modeling of performance metrics for service delivery and describe how the monitoring and management of key performance indicators (KPIs) are supported as an integral part of our SDM platform.
A NEW METHOD FOR PARENTERAL CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS ADMINISTRATION IN THE NEWBORN

The low solubility of calcium phosphate makes it difficult to maintain normal bone mineralization in low birthweight infants during prolonged parenteral alimentation. We postulated that alternating calcium(Ca) and phosphate(P) administration at short intervals might permit substantial accretion of both without excessive fluctuations in serum concentration. We used two solutions of 2.1% amino acid in 5% dextrose; one had 50mEq of calcium per liter and the other 28mEq of phosphorus per liter. These were given alternately for one hr periods by infusion pump to anesthesized lambs. Serum calcium and phosphorus were measured hourly in 5 lambs, weighing 2.3-4.0 kg for a total of 33 periods. Ca was given at 5-10 mg/kg/hr and P at 4-8mg/kg/hr. Serum Ca changed less than 1.2 mg/dl during 15 Ca infusions and 15 P infusions. During one phosphorus period Ca decreased 1.4 mg/dl. Serum phosphorus was not significantly changed by either Ca or P infusions. Urine Ca analyses indicated that 87% of the Ca given was retained. Ca infusion at 10 mg/kg/hr for 12 hrs daily would thus give a balance of 120 mg/kg/d x .87=104 mg/kg/d accretion rate.
Quantification of PCR amplification products of Brugia Hha I repeat DNA using a semiautomated Q-PCR system

Abstract The sensitive, rapid and species-specific diagnosis of Brugia infections in humans or animal models is important in determining the level of parasitemia and the efficacy of chemotherapy or vaccinations. The Hha I family of highly repeated DNA sequences from Brugia have been useful in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnosis of brugian filarial infections in blood samples and in mosquitoes. A PCR assay was developed using a biotinylated primer, a non-biotinylated primer and a species-specific chemiluminescent probe [tris{2,2′bipyridine} ruthenium (II) chelate, TBR] to detect PCR amplified Hha I family repeats. Individual blood samples from jirds infected with Brugia malayi or B. pahangi and with different levels of microfilaremia were tested in this assay. Known concentrations of Brugia DNA and DNA from the blood of uninfected control jirds were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The PCR products generated by this method were analyzed using a semi-automated quantitative (Q)-PCR system. The levels of parasite DNA can be calculated from the luminosity units generated. Significant amounts of parasite DNA were detected in blood samples from infected jirds, and these values were correlated with the levels of microfilaremia. In contrast, reductions in circulating microfilaria following treatment with ivermectin correlated with low levels of measurable DNA. Using this system, we were also able to detect Hha I repeat DNA in the spleens of B. pahangi - infected jirds at 56 days post-infection when circulating microfilariae were not readily detectable. The results indicate that the species-specific Hha I Q-PCR detection and quantification method is rapid and sensitive, is useful in the detection of Brugia DNA in blood and other tissues and is suited for use in clinical settings because it does not require radioactive isotopes and gel-based protocols.
Optimization of process variables for the preparation of ibuprofen coprecipitates with Eudragit S100

Abstract The objective of this study was to optimize the technique used to prepare extended release coprecipitates of ibuprofen with Eudragit S100. The technique involved dissolution of ibuprofen and Eudragit S100 in alcohol USP followed by the addition of cold water with agitation for a specified length of time. A four-factor full factorial design with agitation time and speed and volumes of alcohol and water was used for optimization. The dependent variables were percent recovery of ibuprofen, flowability index and geometric mean diameter of the coprecipitated granules. Mathematical relationships and response surface plots were obtained to relate the dependent and independent variables. Optimization was performed by the grid search and computer methods.
How the cerebellum could memorise movements.

THE neurones of the cerebellum are arranged in an extremely regular fashion and their synaptic connections are known in detail1; this has led to considerable speculation about the functioning of these neuronal circuits. In particular, following a proposal that the cerebellum is involved in the learning of movements2, there have been a number of theories about how the cerebellar circuitry could be used in this way3–5. These theories are all based on the postulate that the signals relating to motor output which are to be stored in the cerebellum have been computed in the cerebral cortex, and transmitted from there to the cerebellum for storage. They assume that the initial learning process, during which the animal learns to produce motor outputs with favourable consequences for itself, takes place somewhere in the cerebral cortex and not in the cerebellum: only after the cerebral cortex has learned how to generate these motor outputs is the information for their production stored in the cerebellum. Recent results suggest, however, that this postulate is incorrect, and that the cerebellum is directly involved in the learning of motor actions which have satisfactory consequences for the animal. To account for these results I describe a new way by which the cerebellum could be used for storing information relating to movements.
Morphological diversity of freshwater bacteria belonging to the Blastocaulis-planctomyces group as observed in natural populations and enrichments

The nonprosthecate, stalked, budding, aquatic bacteria presently thought to belong to theBlastocaulis-Planctomyces group are morphologically quite diverse—as can be seen in high resolution transmission electron micrographs of these organisms as they occur in freshwater samples and enrichments prepared from them. Stalk fine structure is of several different types: some of these organisms possess flattened (in some cases, possibly tubular) ribbon-like stalks made up of parallel arrays of subunit fibrils of varying dimensions; others have stalks composed of twisted (ropelike) bundles of relatively coarse individual fibrils. Diversity exists in various other appendages (flagella, spires, fimbriae, holdfasts), cell envelope features (including the peculiar crateriform structures), degree of rosette formation, and cell shape. Based on this diversity, four morphotypes have been delineated among the members of this group. The axenic cultures we have isolated are being characterized within the morphotype framework.
Persistence pays off: Sir Charles Oatley and the scanning electron microscope

Shortly after World War II, Sir Charles Oatley initiated research at the Cambridge University engineering laboratories on what has evolved into the modern scanning electron microscope. While much of the research was actually conducted by research students under Oatley’s supervision, he continually provided ideas, resources, and encouragement. He then was instrumental in having this instrument commercialized. His students often continued in the field for some time, making contributions both to the instrument and to its applications that led to improved performance and wider acceptance. This article attempts to capture some of the accomplishments of Sir Charles Oatley as seen by those who worked closely with him. The author believes that Sir Charles deserves the title: ‘‘Father of the Modern Scanning Electron Microscope.’’
Binding of Tetrodotoxin and Saxitoxin to Sodium Channels

A useful first step in any chemical characterization of the sodium channels in nerve membrane would clearly be the identification of some measurable property of the channel that does not depend on the intactness of the tissue. To this end, tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin, which bind specifically to sodium channels, have been tritiated and their binding to rabbit, lobster and garfish non-myelinated nerve fibres examined. In each case, a component of the binding curve was found that saturated at concentrations of a few nanomolar. In addition, non-specific binding, indicated by a linear dependence of the amount bound on concentration, occurred. A solubilized membrane preparation from garfish nerve shows the same specific binding component as that of the intact nerve. The saturable component of binding seems to reflect the sodium channel density in nerve, and this is extremely small, being about 27/ $\mu$ m $^2$ in the rabbit nerve and as small as 6/ $\mu$ m $^2$ in the garfish nerve.
Effect of glucagon on blood glucose homeostasis in infants of diabetic mothers.

Thirty infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) were randomly selected and divided into 3 groups of 10 babies each. Group A were used as controls. Group B received glucagon 300 mug/kg i.m. and Group C received glucagon 300 mug/kg i.v. at birth. Hypoglycemia developed in 6 infants in Group A and 4 infants in Group B. None of the infants in Group C had hypoglycemia. Mean blood glucose was higher in Group C in the first 3 hours than Group A, and higher in Group B in the first (/2-1 hour. I.v. glucshon, 300 mug/kg when given in the first 15 minutes after birth prevented hypoglycemia in IDM in the first hours of life.
Entrapment of enzymes and carbon nanotubes in biologically synthesized silica: glucose oxidase-catalyzed direct electron transfer.

Abstract : This work demonstrates a new approach for building bio-inorganic interfaces by integrating biomimetically-derived silica with single-walled carbon nanotubes to create a conductive matrix for immobilization of enzymes. Such a strategy not only allows simple integration into bio-devices but presents an opportunity to intimately interface an enzyme and manifest direct electron transfer features. Biologically-templated silica/carbon nanotube/enzyme composites were evaluated electrochemically and characterized by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Voltammetry of the composites displayed stable oxidation and reduction peaks at an optimal potential close to that of the FAC/FADS(sub 2) cofactor of immobilized glucose oxidase. The immobilization stabilized enzyme activity for a period of one month and retained catalytic activity towards the oxidation of glucose. It was demonstrated that the resulting composite can be successfully integrated into functional bio-electrodes for biosensor and biofuel cell applications.
Multiscale fluid transport theory for swelling biopolymers

Fluid flow through a (bio) polymeric matrix has multiscale characteristics and is affected by the relaxation of surrounding polymers. Models developed in the past were either single scale (Polymer (1982) 23 (4) 529; Chemical Engineering Science (1992) 47 (12) 3037) or were limited to systems with a short memory (Achanta, 1995; Moisture transport in shrinking gels during drying, Ph.D. thesis, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN). To address these limitations, we use the generalized Darcy's law equations of Singh (Effect of viscoelastic relaxation on fluid and species transport in biopolymeric materials, Ph.D. thesis) and the mass balance equations of Bennethum and Cushman (International Journal of Engineering Science (1996) 34 (2) 125) to develop a multiscale fluid transport model. The effect of viscoelastic relaxation of solid polymers on the flow of vicinal (adsorbed) fluid is considered at the mesoscale. At the macroscale two bulk fluids are incorporated, one of which is identical to the vicinal fluid. The mass balance equations for the vicinal fluid and its bulk counterpart are coupled via source/sink terms. The resulting fluid transport equation includes a novel integral term related to viscoelastic properties of the biopolymeric matrix. This term incorporates viscoelastic effects with both short and long memory. The model can describe both Darcian (Fickian) and non-Darcian (non-Fickian) modes of fluid transport. The model suggests fluid transport is Darcian in the rubbery and glassy states when the biopolymers are sufficiently far from the glass transition region. In the proximity of glass transition the flow of fluids is anomalous or non-Darcian. These predictions are in agreement with the experimental observations of Kim et al. (Chemical Engineering Science (1996) 51 (21) 4827). In spite of its multiscale characteristics, the resulting transport equation is simple and can be easily solved. The experimental parameters needed to solve the equation are the effective diffusivity, a sorption or drying curve and viscoelastic properties of the material.
Adsorption at liquid interfaces: The generalized langmuir isotherm and interfacial structure

The thermodynamics of adsorption of amphiphilic surface-active compounds at the interface between two immiscible liquids is considered. At the interface, these molecules are supposed to replace a few of the adsorbed molecules of both solvents. Classical isotherms of adsorption (Frumkin, Langmuir, Henry) were based on the model of nonpenetrable interface, where an adsorbate can substitute only molecules of one solvent. However, at the interface between two immiscible electrolytes, like nonpolar oil-water interfaces, or liquid membrane amphiphilic molecules can substitute molecules of both solvents; therefore, classical isotherms are not applicable in these cases. The generalization of Langmuir and Frumkin isotherms for permeable and nonpermeable interfaces, known as the Markin-Volkov (MV) isotherm, gives the possibility to analyze adsorption and the interfacial structure in a general case. In the present paper, the adsorption isotherms of pentafluorobenzoic acid at the octane-water interface at various pH were measured by the drop-weight method. The thermodynamic parameters of pentafluorobenzoic acid (PFBA) adsorption at the octane-water interface were found. From the measurements of PFBA adsorption, the structure of the octane-water interface was determined. Substitution of one adsorbed octane molecule requires approximately three adsorbed PFBA molecules. This result shows that the orientation of solvent molecules at the interface is different from the bulk solution. Adsorbed octane molecules have a lateral orientation with respect to the interface. Gibbs free energy of adsorption equilibrium and thermodynamic parameters of PFBA adsorption show that the adsorption of PFBA at the octane-water interface is accompanied by a reduction in the attraction between adsorbed PFBA molecules as the pH decreases to the acidic region.
Identifying Work-Related Motor Vehicle Crashes in Multiple Databases

Objective: To compare and estimate the magnitude of work-related motor vehicle crashes in Utah using 2 probabilistically linked statewide databases. Methods: Data from 2006 and 2007 motor vehicle crash and hospital databases were joined through probabilistic linkage. Summary statistics and capture–recapture were used to describe occupants injured in work-related motor vehicle crashes and estimate the size of this population. Results: There were 1597 occupants in the motor vehicle crash database and 1673 patients in the hospital database identified as being in a work-related motor vehicle crash. We identified 1443 occupants with at least one record from either the motor vehicle crash or hospital database indicating work-relatedness that linked to any record in the opposing database. We found that 38.7 percent of occupants injured in work-related motor vehicle crashes identified in the motor vehicle crash database did not have a primary payer code of workers’ compensation in the hospital database and 40.0 p...
The cyclic-di-GMP signaling pathway in the Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi

In nature, the Lyme disease spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi cycles between the unrelated environments of the Ixodes tick vector and mammalian host. In order to survive transmission between hosts, B. burgdorferi must be able to not only detect changes in its environment, but also rapidly and appropriately respond to these changes. One manner in which this obligate parasite regulates and adapts to its changing environment is through cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) signaling. c-di-GMP has been shown to be instrumental in orchestrating the adaptation of B. burgdorferi to the tick environment. B. burgdorferi possesses only one set of c-di-GMP-metabolizing genes (one diguanylate cyclase and two distinct phosphodiesterases) and one c-di-GMP-binding PilZ-domain protein designated as PlzA. While studies in the realm of c-di-GMP signaling in B. burgdorferi have exploded in the last few years, there are still many more questions than answers. Elucidation of the importance of c-di-GMP signaling to B. burgdorferi may lead to the identification of mechanisms that are critical for the survival of B. burgdorferi in the tick phase of the enzootic cycle as well as potentially delineate a role (if any) c-di-GMP may play in the transmission and virulence of B. burgdorferi during the enzootic cycle, thereby enabling the development of effective drugs for the prevention and/or treatment of Lyme disease.
No delayed temporal response to sample concentration changes during enhanced microdialysis sampling using cyclodextrins and antibody-immobilized microspheres

The temporal response to concentration changes external to a microdialysis probe containing trapping agents in the perfusion fluid was studied. Native β-cyclodextrin and a water-soluble β-cyclodextrin polymer were used as trapping agents in the microdialysis perfusion fluid to study the temporal concentration response to carbamazepine, a hydrophobic analyte. The temporal response of microdialysis probes containing antibody-immobilized microspheres against five different cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, and IL-5) to concentration changes outside of the probe was also determined. In both cases, no delayed temporal response of enhanced microdialysis was observed for either carbamazepine or the cytokines as compared to standard microdialysis sampling procedures.
Self-trapping of a light particle in a dense fluid: Application of scaled density-functional theory to the decay of orthopositronium.

The localization of a light particle (e.g., electron, positron, or positronium atom) in a fluid is known as self-trapping. In an earlier paper (B. N. Miller and T. L. Reese, Phys. Rev. A 39, 4735 (1989)) we showed that (1) the density-functional theories (DFT's) of self-trapping could be derived from a mesoscopic model that employs a quantum-mechanical description of the light particle and a classical description of the fluid, and (2) the application of scaling to the simplest variant of DFT results in a universal model for all fluids that obey the principle of corresponding states. In this paper we apply the fully scaled theory to the pickoff annihilation of orthopositronium. Predictions of three different versions of the theory are compared with the experimental measurements of McNutt and Sharma on ethane (J. Chem. Phys. 68, 130 (1978)) and Tuomisaari, Rytsola, and Hautojarvi on argon (Phys. Lett. 112A, 279 (1988)). Best agreement is obtained from a model that incorporates transitions between localized and extended states.
Causation, Vioxx, and legal issues.

In the article on the first Vioxx trial, “Vioxx verdict: too little or too much science?” (News Focus, 2 Sept., p. [1481][1]), A. Lawler writes that one commentator attributed the jury's verdict for the plaintiff to the evidence about Merck covering up the problems with its drug. This occurred
Pt agglomeration and entombment in single channel zeolites: Pt/LTL

Abstract This paper presents a transmission electron microscopy study of the role of Pt agglomeration and channel blockage in the deactivation of Pt/K-zeolite L aromatization catalysts. A Z-contrast imaging study of Pt particle size distributions shows that there is an increase in the number of channel blockages by Pt with increasing catalyst reaction time. Modeling shows that when agglomeration proceeds so that there is a likelihood of two or more blockages per channel, significant quantities of Pt become entombed. This problem is exacerbated by long zeolite L channel lengths. Conversely, if the channels are too short, Pt seepage to the external surfaces becomes significant and the rate of coke production increases, again resulting in loss of accessible Pt. Ideally, the best Pt/KL catalysts have all of the Pt inside the channels in a finely dispersed state. It is argued that there exists an optimum `length-loading' window for Pt/KL catalysts: 0.25≤wl≤0.5 where w is the percentage of Pt by weight in the zeolite, and l is the channel length (μm). The upper limit minimizes the deleterious effects of multiple channel blockages by ensuring that, on average, there is not enough Pt in the channels to form two or more blockages. The lower limit guards against Pt seepage to the exterior surfaces when channel lengths are too short.
Single Molecule Tracking of Elongation Factor Tu (EF-Tu) in Live E. Coli

Translation requires efficient peptidyl transfer to support the cellular needs. Of the factors that facilitate the peptide elongation, elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu) is crucial in helping the correct aminoacyl-tRNA to be incorporated into the protein. It also acts as an energy carrier to move aminoacyl-tRNA near to P site peptides, forming a new peptide bond. Here, we investigated diffusive motions of translationally fused EF-Tu (TufA and TufB) with mEos2 via single particle tracking photoactivation localization microscopy (spt-PALM) on live E. coli cells. The mean diffusion coefficient of EF-Tu tracked at 100 Hz was 0.15 um∧2/s. The spatial distribution of EF-Tu is reminiscent of that of translating ribosomes and its diffusion coefficient is five times faster than 70S diffusion (0.03 um∧2/s). However, this is still much slower compared to the expected diffusion of free EF-Tu-size proteins such as GFP (5 um∧2/s). This suggests that EF-Tu spends most of the time on ribosome or/and on a large complex. We will further investigate the cause of slow diffusive motion via antibiotic treatments and mutations on translation machinery.
Oncogene transcription in normal human IMR-90 fibroblasts: Induction by serum and tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate

We report studies of oncogene transcription induced by the addition of serum to quiescent cultures of human IMR-90 fibroblasts. Oncogene messenger RNAs for c-myc, c-erbB and c-ras were increased in a specific temporal sequence after the addition of serum. Compounds that are proposed to exert their actions by the stimulation of cell growth were tested for their effect on oncogene transcription in IMR-90 fibroblasts. The tumor promoter tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate (TPA) was found to selectively induce the transcription of c-myc without observable effect on the transcription of the other oncogenes studied, and without inducing cell division. The inactive analog, phorbol didecanoate (PDD), and two complete carcinogens dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) and 4-nitro quinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) were without effect on the transcription of the genes studied. These results suggest that the complete ordered sequence of gene transcription is necessary to achieve the physiologic response of cell division, and that classical promoters and complete carcinogens achieve their effects through different pathways.
Cross-relaxation dynamics between laser-polarized xenon and a surface species using a simple three-spin model

Abstract We present an analysis of the cross-relaxation dynamics between optically polarized 129 Xe and surface 13 C and 1 H spins in methanol adsorbed on a SiO 2 surface. Analytical expressions for the 13 C polarization are derived, which show that the 13 C polarization is determined by cross-relaxation with both 129 Xe and 1 H spins. The 1 H spins act as a polarization sink; however, saturation of the protons results in a further increase in signal intensity. Replacing the 1 H spin reservoir with 2 H increases the 13 C signal by a factor of 12 (25 as compared to room-temperature data). Further improvements are anticipated using higher-powered lasers.
Holography: Origin, development, and beyond

We shall discuss the origin, the development, and the future of holography. We shall show that basically there are two types of holography, namely the transmission-type of Leith and the reflection-type of Denisyuk. Although the original purpose for developing holography was to produce 3D imageries, it has a much wider domain of application far beyond the legacy.
Use of an Extended Kalman Filter and development of an automated system for xylose fermentation by a recombinant Escherichia coli

An automated system was developed for on-line monitoring and control of xylose fermentation by a recombinantEscherichia coli. A 7-L fermenter was interfaced with a personal computer. Control circuits were constructed and a software was developed to estimate the states of the fermentation using an Extended Kalman Filter. The automated system combined with the Extended Kalman Filter provided a satisfactory way to obtain on-line information regarding estimation of fermentation parameters.
Bacteria and Acidic Drainage from Coal Refuse: Inhibition by Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Benzoate

The application of an aqueous solution of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium benzoate to the surface of high-sulfur coal refuse resulted in the inhibition of iron-and sulfur-oxidizing chemoautotrophic bacteria and in the decrease of acidic drainage from the refuse, suggesting that acid drainage can be abated in the field by inhibiting iron- and sulfur-oxidizing bacteria.
Fatty pancreas: a factor in postoperative pancreatic fistula.

Objective: To determine whether patients who develop a pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy are more likely to have pancreatic fat than matched controls. Background: Pancreatic fistula continues to be a major cause of postoperative morbidity and increased length of stay after pancreatoduodenectomy. Factors associated with postoperative pancreatic fistula include a soft pancreas, a small pancreatic duct, the underlying pancreatic pathology, the regional blood supply, and surgeon's experience. Fatty pancreas previously has not been considered as a contributing factor in the development of postoperative pancreatic fistula. Methods: Forty patients with and without a pancreatic fistula were identified from an Indiana University database of over 1000 patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy and matched for multiple parameters including age, gender, pancreatic pathology, surgeon, and type of operation. Surgical pathology specimens from the pancreatic neck were reviewed blindly for fat, fibrosis, vessel density, and inflammation. These parameters were scored (0-4+). Results: The pancreatic fistula patients were less likely (P < 0.05) to have diabetes but had significantly more intralobular (P < 0.001), interlobular (P < 0.05), and total pancreatic fat (P < 0.001). Fistula patients were more likely to have high pancreatic fat scores (50% vs. 13%, P < 0.001). Pancreatic fibrosis, vessel density, and duct size were lower (P < 0.001) in the fistula patients and negative correlations (P < 0.001) existed between fat and fibrosis (R = -0.40) and blood vessel density (R = -0.15). Conclusions: These data suggest that patients with postoperative pancreatic fistula have (1) increased pancreatic fat and (2) decreased pancreatic fibrosis, blood vessel density, and duct size. Therefore, we conclude that fatty pancreas is a risk factor for postoperative pancreatic fistula.
Pulsation effects on single- and two-rotor turbine meters

Abstract The natural gas industry is particularly in need of a technology and a method which will assis tin identifying pulsation-related problems at field measurement sites. This paper describes results of a research programme sponsored by the Gas Research Institute (GRI) which has investigated the response of single- and two-rotor turbine meters to pulsations and has identified a practical diagnostic technique which may meet industry's needs. Both single- and two-rotor turbine meters have been tested in the GRI Meeting Research Facility (MRF) in pulsating flow over a range of frequencies and amplitudes typical of those seen in gas industry applications. The pulsation frequencies and amplitudes cover the normal field conditions with velocity modulations from a few to 20% of the mean flow rate. Flow rates investigated in the 100 mm test meters include from 15% to nearly 100% of the meter's capacity. Test results show that pulsation modes which produce a strong velocity modulation at the meter have the most influence on measurement accuracy, while pressure pulsation amplitude at the meter has little influence. Furthermore, results show that pulsations which influence meter registration also affect rotor speed in a detectable manner. It has been demonstrated that by monitoring modulation of the time period between turbine rotor pulses, a measurement can be derived to detect the presence of pulsations and identify the frequency and, potentially, the amplitude of pulsation-induced errors.
An Analysis of Money Demand and Inflation in the Islamic Republic of Iran

This study examines money demand and inflation dynamics in the Islamic Republic of Iran using quarterly data for the period 1990/91-2001/02 and tests whether the disinflation during 2000/01-2001/02 represents a structural break in the data. A long-run money market equilibrium condition is identified and the short-run behavior of the inflation, measured in terms of non-administered component of the consumer price index (CPI) is modeled conditional on the disequilibria in the money market. Estimation results indicate that the stabilization of the exchange rate on account of strong oil revenues during 2000/01-2001/02 buoyed the demand for domestic money and contributed to the decline in inflation. Tests of model stability do not point to a structural shift in the inflation equation during the period of analysis.
Aerosolization of Particles from a Bubbling Liquid: Characteristics and Generator Development

ABSTRACT A new aerosol generator is introduced in which particles suspended in a liquid are aerosolized by gentle bubble bursting. Tangential injection of dry air to the bubbling surface dries the airborne droplets immediately after aerosolization so that they rapidly shrink in size and are carried out from the generator by inward and upward swirling air motion. The new generator has been evaluated with monodisperse PSL particles in the size range of 0.73–5.1 μm and with a saline solution using a time-of-flight aerodynamic particle size spectrometer (Aerosizer). It was found that, in contrast to pneumatic nebulization (e.g., with a Collison nebulizer), the new generator's output in undesirable liquid droplets is very small, while its output in dry PSL particles is high. When using the new aerosol generator, a minimum number of the nebulized droplets is returned to the liquid pool, thus optimizing the number of particles available as test aerosols. The aerosol concentration was found to be constant and sta...
Superconductivity in the metallic elements at high pressures

Abstract Although the highest superconducting critical temperature, T c , found in an elemental solid at ambient pressure is 9.2 K (niobium), under the application of ultra-high pressures, several elements exhibit T c values near or above 20 K. This review includes a survey of the occurrence and understanding of pressure-induced superconductivity in the subset of elements that are metallic at ambient pressure. A particular focus is directed towards those elements that display the highest superconducting critical temperatures or exhibit substantial increases in T c with pressure. A separate article in this issue by Shimizu will cover pressure-induced superconductivity in elements that are insulating at ambient pressure.
Gravity detection through bifurcation.

Abstract Bifurcation is a phenomenon in which a physical system is forced to make a choice between one of the several possible states to which it can evolve. In this process the system can become extremely sensitive to very small influences — smaller than the size of the fluctuations— that favor one of the states. A general theory of this sensitivity and a simple model for gravity detection is presented. The difference between systems in thermodynamic equilibrium and those that are far from equilibrium is also discussed.
Motor unit number estimate of distal and proximal muscles in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease

In order to determine the utility of motor unit number estimation (MUNE) in assessing axonal loss in chronic inherited neuropathies, we determined MUNEs in 54 patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease (29 patients with CMT-1A, 13 with CMT-X, and 12 with CMT-2) by using spike-triggered averaging (STA) of the ulnar-innervated abductor digiti minimi/hypothenar muscles (ADM) and the musculo-cutaneous innervated biceps/brachialis (BB) muscles. MUNEs were analyzed in relationship to the corresponding compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitudes as well as to clinical strength. Proximal muscles, which appeared strong clinically, had evidence of chronic denervation/reinnervation, although to a lesser extent than weak distal hand muscles, supporting the concept that axonal loss in CMT occurs in a length-dependent fashion. The reduction in ADM-MUNE strongly correlated with clinical weakness in the hand. Both the ADM-MUNE and BB-MUNE were abnormal more often than CMAP amplitude, probably reflecting extensive motor unit reconfiguration and enlargement that maintains CMAP amplitude despite severe motor unit loss. This study suggests that MUNE can assess motor unit loss in CMT and may better reflect axonal loss than CMAP amplitude. The STA technique of MUNE may be useful in longitudinal studies of proximal and distal motor unit changes in CMT.
Context and the commons

Despite the grim view of resource overexploitation and the collapse famously described in Hardin's (1) much-cited “Tragedy of the Commons,” we now know that local governance institutions have the potential to overcome common pool resource dilemmas. A growing literature (2, 3), including Chhatre and Agrawal's analysis of forest commons (4) in this issue of PNAS, demonstrates the conditions of successful commons governance. This body of research augurs well for our ability to design decision-making processes that facilitate both environmental and economic sustainability and thus is of immense practical importance.
Critical phenomena and relativistic gravitational collapse

Recent calculations have shown the existence of critical phenomena in general relativity associated with the collapse of wavepackets of massless fields that are near, in parameter space, the onset of black hole formation (the critical point). Two physically distinct systems have been explored: collapse of spherically-symmetric massless scalar field and collapse of vacuum, axisymmetric gravitational waves. Nonlinear effects dominate near the critical point. Black-hole mass serves as an order parameter and has a power-law dependence on critical separation in the supercritical region of parameter space. Remarkably, the values of the critical exponent of the power law are nearly identical in the two systems. The nonlinearity induces the fields to oscillate. Each successive oscillation is an echo, obeying a spatial and temporal scaling relation.
Risk factors for lack of recent exercise in adults with self-reported, professionally diagnosed arthritis.

Background It is important to identify predictors of exercise/physical activity in adults with arthritis. Objective The objective of this study was to estimate the association between selected factors and recent exercise/physical activity in adults with self-reported, professionally diagnosed arthritis. Methods Using population-based survey data from the 2004 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS), we classified respondents according to their arthritis status, race, age, general health, education, body mass index, limitations resulting from joint symptoms, whether or not they received weight management and/or exercise advice from health professionals, and whether or not they engaged in exercise/physical activity within the past month. Results Over one third (34.7%) of U.S. adults who completed the BRFSS Arthritis Burden Module reported having professionally diagnosed arthritis and 68% of those respondents reported engaging in exercise/physical activity within the past month. Respondents who were more likely to have engaged in recent exercise/physical activity were men, those with higher levels of education, those who were advised by a health professional that exercise/physical activity might benefit their arthritis, and those who have taken an arthritis education course. Older age, black race, overweight or obesity, poorer self-reported general health, and limitations resulting from joint symptoms were associated with not engaging in recent exercise/physical activity. Conclusions Several demographic, behavioral, and disease characteristics associate with whether or not adults with arthritis engaged in exercise/physical activity during the past month. These should be considered by clinicians to appropriately encourage continued activity among physically active patients while assessing and addressing barriers to activity for less active populations. Findings such as these might also inform efforts to develop targeted physical activity interventions to promote increased activity in subgroups that tend to be most sedentary.
The nuclear fibrous lamina of alveolar bone cells.

The nuclear fibrous lamina, a structure of unknown composition and function, is described in alveolar bone cells of squirrel monkeys. Osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoprogenitor cells contain nuclear envelopes with prominent fibrous laminas measuring up to 800° A. in width, while osteoclasts have nuclei with poorly developed laminas. The fibrous lamina is an amorphous or fine-textures, moderaly electron dense layer directly applied on its external surface to the inner nuclear membrane. Its interior surface is bordered by beads of heterochromatin. At nuclear pore sites the lamina is either absent or markedly attenuated.
Parity nonconservation in atoms and elastic electron scattering caused by nuclear parity violation

Abstract We demonstrate, on the basis of gauge invariance, hermiticity, and time-reversal invariance, that there can be no long range transmission of nuclear parity violation to electrons in an atom or in elastic electron scattering. It follows that the ratio of the nuclear induced parity violation in atoms or in elastic electron scattering to that due to weak neutral currents (Z-boson exchange) remains of the order of the fine structure constant, even in the limit of zero momentum transfer.
Wind observations of the electron foreshock

Observations in the electron foreshock by the WIND/SWE investigation are presented. Between November 30–December 28, 1994, WIND made repeated back and forth crossings of the leading edge of the electron foreshock. We present observations during one five hour interval from this period. Foreshock crossings are readily identified in the SWE data by the onset of an enhanced flux of backstreaming electrons and by a reversal of the electron heat flux. The measured velocity distribution functions indicate that both magnetic reflection from the bow shock and upstream leakage through the shock are responsible for the backstreaming electrons measured upstream. Resolved bumps are frequently observed on reduced velocity distributions and are shown to be associated with an increased electric field intensity measured by the WIND/WAVES experiment.