cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Disruption of the 290-342 salt bridge is not responsible for the secretory defect of the PiZ alpha 1-antitrypsin variant.

Abstract Crystallographic studies have previously suggested that Lys290 forms a salt bridge with Glu342 in the serine protease inhibitor alpha 1-antitrypsin. Disruption of the formation of this structural feature by a Glu to Lys substitution at residue 342 in the PiZ variant has been implicated in causing the defective secretion of this mutant protein from hepatocytes (10-15% of normal). To test the validity of this hypothesis, mutant human alpha 1-antitrypsin cDNA constructs coding for specific amino acid substitutions at residues 290 and 342 were generated and the corresponding mutant proteins were expressed in mouse hepatoma cells. When the potential to form the salt bridge was reestablished by a Lys290 to Glu290 substitution in the PiZ variant, its secretion was increased to only 38% of normal. Furthermore, disruption of this structural feature by a Lys290 to Glu290 substitution in the normal inhibitor failed to reduce the secretion of alpha 1-antitrypsin to the extent observed for the PiZ variant (73% of normal). Finally, substitution of the neutral amino acid Gln at residue 342 only reduced the secretion of alpha 1-antitrypsin to 55% of normal. Of all mutant proteins tested, those bearing Lys at position 342 were secreted at the lowest levels. These findings demonstrate that although disruption of the 290-342 salt bridge does affect the secretion of alpha 1-antitrypsin, it is the substitution of Lys at residue 342 that causes the dramatic secretory defect of the PiZ variant.
A density-controlled scaffolding strategy for covalent functionalization of carbon-fiber microelectrodes

Trace metal detection is of great importance in environmental and biological systems. It is crucial to develop a portable and sensitive device that can determine levels of trace metals in real time. Recently, we described a method for ultrafast and sensitive detection of Cu(II) and Pb(II) in aqueous environmental samples using fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) at carbon-fiber microelectrodes (CFMs). However, the application of this technique to more complex samples is limited by analytical selectivity. In this paper, we describe a scaffolding strategy for covalent modification of CFMs as a platform for creating selective adsorption sites. We create a monolayer of acetylene-terminated scaffolds on CFMs through the electrochemical reduction of alkynyl aryl diazonium salts bearing sterically differentiated silyl groups, which control the density of the scaffolds. Desilylation reveals the alkyne for further functionalization via Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). As a proof of principle, we optimized the conditions for azidomethyl ferrocene to be grafted with the alkynes. All the surface variations of CFMs are electrochemically verified. This innovative strategy provides the groundwork for a broadly applicable method to generate analyte-selective CFMs. The generalized approach offers the potential to attach azide-appended recognition groups to different electrodes in a high throughput manner. This technology will ultimately allow real-time ultra-selective FSCV analysis of metals in complex ecological and biological systems.
Socialization to Work in Late Adolescence: The Role of Television and Family

This survey of college freshmen examines the role of television and family in anticipatory socialization to work. Findings indicate that both sources play a role in the development of work-related values and aspirations, but contribute in different ways. Wishful identification was higher for characters perceived to have higher paying jobs and stronger extrinsic (but not intrinsic) work values. Although causal direction cannot be shown, results suggest that respondents internalized the intrinsic and extrinsic work values they perceived in their parents' jobs, but derived mainly extrinsic work values and desire for easy work from observing their favorite characters at work.
Effect of timing of communicator identification and level of source credibility on attitude

O'Keefe's (1987) meta‐analysis concluded that the relative advantage for a high credible source was diminished when the identification of the source occurred after the message. Two replications using 1945 subjects and a total of 12 messages confirm this finding but provide a smaller estimate (r = .093 for this investigation while O'Keefe reports an average correlation of .352). Theoretically, the associationist position is not supported while a model suggesting a more sophisticated view of message processing is required. At a practical level, the findings suggest that highly credible message authors benefit from early identification whereas message authors evaluated as less credible benefit from delayed identification.
Distributed nested decomposition of staircase linear programs

This article considers the application of a primal nested-decomposition method to solve staircase linear programs (SLPs) on distributed-memory, multiple-instruction-multiple-data computers. Due to the coupling that exists among the stages of an SLP, a standard parallel-decompositon algorithm for these problems would allow only a subset of the subproblem processes to overlap with one another at any give time. We propose algorithms that seek to increase the amount of overlap among the processes as well as utilize idle time beneficially. Computational results testing the effectiveness of our algoritms are reported, using a standard set of test problems.
On Garg's solution of Biot's equations for wave propagation in a one-dimensional fluid-saturated elastic porous solid

Garg's approximate analytical solutions of Biot's equations for wave propagation in a fluid-saturated elastic porous solid of infinite extent subjected to a velocity boundary condition of a Heaviside function at one end are examined for small and large drag. Garg's approximations were apparently introduced to facilitate exact inversion of Laplace transforms of certain quantities. The approximate solutions are compared with carefully evaluated numerical inverses of the Laplace transform solutions for different soils with widely varying properties. It is seen that for most soils (clays, silts and, sands) the error in Garg's approximate solutions in insignificant, and the solutions can be used as benchmarks for verifying numerical analysis procedures such as finite element codes.
Soy isoflavone supplementation in healthy men prevents NF-κB activation by TNF-α in blood lymphocytes

Abstract Dietary intake of soy has been associated with a decreased risk of cancer. Soy isoflavones have been postulated to be the protective compounds in soybeans; however, the precise mechanism by which soy isoflavones prevent human cancer is not known. The major soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, are antioxidant compounds, therefore one possible mechanism of action is through their antioxidant effect. We have previously demonstrated that the soy isoflavone, genistein, inhibits the activation of the redox-sensitive transcription factor, NF-κB, in prostate cancer cells in vitro. In this study, we have demonstrated that genistein, but not daidzein, inhibits TNF-α-induced NF-κB activation in cultured human lymphocytes. Additionally, we investigated the in vivo effect of soy isoflavone supplementation on NF-κB activation induced by TNF-α in vitro in peripheral blood lymphocytes of six healthy men. We show that healthy male subjects receiving 50 mg isoflavone mixture (Novasoy) twice daily for 3 weeks are protected from TNF-α induced NF-κB activation. Additionally, we observed a reduction of 5-hydroxymethyl-2′-deoxyuridine (5-OHmdU), a marker for oxidative DNA damage, following isoflavone supplementation. The inhibitory effect of soy isoflavones was no longer present 3 months after the supplementation. This preliminary study demonstrates that soy isoflavone supplementation may protect cells from oxidative stress-inducing agents by inhibiting NF-κB activation and decreasing DNA adduct levels.
Beam-induced composition changes in “melted” GaAs

Abstract Analytical electron microscopy (AEM) has been used to study the “melting” behavior of GaAs crystals under strong illumination with an electron beam. It is found that the chemical composition of the GaAs has been changed to Ga:As≈2:1 after being “melted”. The decrease of the As atoms in GaAs is interpreted as being due to evaporation of As into the vacuum.
High‐fat dairy product consumption increases Δ9c’ 11t−18∶2 (rumenic acid) and total lipid concentrations of human milk

Conjugated octadecadienoic acids (18∶2’ conjugated linoleic acids) have been shown to be anticarcinogenic and may influence growth and nutrient partitioning. The Δ9c’ 11t−18∶2 isomer (rumenic acid’ RA) is most common in both food sources and human tissues. To determine if maternal diet can influence milk RA concentration’ breastfeeding women (n=16) were enrolled in a 3-wk crossover study. Women initially consumed minimal amounts of food containing RA during week 1’ then were assigned randomly to consume diets rich in high-fat dairy foods (and thus RA) during week 2 or 3. Milk was collected by complete breast expression twice during each experimental week. Current and chronic RA intakes were estimated by 3-d dietary records and food frequency question-naires’ respectively. Estimated chronic RA intakes ranged from 49 to 659 mg/d. Dietary RA intake was greater during the high compared to the low dairy period (291±75 vs. 15±24 mg/d’ respectively; P<0.0001). Milk contained more RA during the high than the low dairy period (13.5±0.1 vs. 8.2±0.4 μmol/g lipid’ respectively; P<0.0001). Milk lipid concentration was influenced by diet’ such that lipid concentration was greater during the high than the low dairy period (46.6±5.0 vs. 38.3±1.6 mg/g milk’ respectively; P<0.05). Additionally’ multiple regression analyses suggested that body mass index was the primary predictor of milk RA and lipid concentrations. In summary’ these data indicate that both lipid and RA concentrations of human milk can be influenced by diet.
The intermolecular potential and its angular dependence for two H2 molecules

The potential energy surface in the non-reactive region has been determined theoretically for the H2-H2 system. The procedure consists of a non-orthogonal configuration interaction calculation using the individual SCF orbitals of the separate molecules. The potential function is expressed as a 5-term sum of Legendre functions, and analytical expressions are given for the R dependence of the terms. The calculated depth of the spherically averaged Van der Waals well is -2·96 meV, which is in essentially complete agreement with the experimental value of -3·00 meV. the position of the minimum is at 3·49 A both theoretically and experimentally. The value of C 6 for dispersion forces obtained in this calculation is 12·97 a.u.
A critical condition for the cost density in the circular city model

In regard to the problem of determining minimal-cost routes in a region with variable cost density, it has been shown elsewhere that, for a radially symmetric cost density which is inversely proportional to the distance from a central point O, the minimal cost between two pointsP1 andP2 which are equidistant from O is attained along a circular arc. This is not true in general for an arbitrary, radially symmetric cost density. In the present paper, critical conditions for determining when a circular arc will be a relative minimal-cost path are derived. These criteria are then employed to examine a class of special cases in which the cost density is constant outside the city limits.
Interpersonal and Dispositional Influences on Problem-Related Interactions☆

Abstract Verbal behaviors in problem-related interactions were identified employing two theoretical frameworks: a functional social support framework and a framework consisting of emotion-focused strategies (transformational versus assimilative) and one emotion-avoidant strategy. Dispositional need for emotional support (an aspect of affiliative need) was related to greater levels of emotionally supportive interaction behaviors (functional support). Interpersonal skill was associated with greater levels of emotion-focused transformational behavior. Transformational behaviors were related to positive changes in perceptions of one's problem. Emotion-focused and functional support behaviors in general were related to more positive perceptions of the interaction partner. The link among personality variables, interaction behaviors, and problem-related perceptions is important in understanding the exact processes by which coping and social support exert beneficial effects on well-being.
Lung cancer metastasis to the scapula and spine: a case report

Background The objective of this case report is to describe the clinical presentation of a patient who complained of shoulder pain and was diagnosed with carcinoma of the scapula and spine that metastasized from the lung.
Cooperative Problem Solving in Mathematics: Beginning the Process

(1991). Cooperative Problem Solving in Mathematics: Beginning the Process. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 65, No. 1, pp. 14-18.
Selective review of boundary element modelling for the interaction of deformable structures with water waves

Abstract A review was conducted of the use of the boundary element method as a solution technique for the nonlinear interaction of deformable structures and finite amplitude waves. The review concentrated on those areas in which modelling difficulties are anticipated: boundaries, waves, time domain analysis, fluid-structure interaction and a coupled finite element and boundary element model. Very little information was uncovered on the nonlinear fluid-structure interaction, although it is anticipated that the fluid domain would be modelled with a boundary element model and the structure would be modelled with a finite element model. The boundary element method appears to be a viable solution technique for the nonlinear interaction of deformable structures and finite amplitude waves.
Detection of B- and T-cell-specific gene rearrangements in 13 cell lines and 50 clinical specimens using the BIOMED-2 and the original InVivoScribe primers.

The diagnosis of clonality by molecular techniques generally depends on the detection of unique molecular events such as specific gene rearrangements in a small percentage of malignant cells in the...
Studies on uterine collagenase in tissue culture. II. Effect of steroid hormones on enzyme production.

Abstract Cultures of post-partum rat uterus normally synthesize and release into the culture medium a specific neutral collagenase. When progesterone is added to the medium of these cultures at a concentration of 5 · 10 −5 M, collagenase activity is completely abolished. This concentration of steroid corresponds to a tissue concentration of 1 · 10 −8 M. Progesterone itself has no direct inhibitory effect on collagenase activity. The potent progesterone analogue 6α-methyl, 17α-acetoxy progesterone completely inhibits the appearance of collagenase activity at 1 · 10 −6 M in culture. Neither estradiol nor testosterone diminishes collagenase activity in vitro . The appearance of hydroxyproline-containing peptides in the medium of the progesterone cultures is diminished by 85% relative to controls, indicating that collagen catabolism in the tissue is prevented at the same time that collagenase activity is undetectable. The ability of progesterone to suppress collagenase activity is stimulated by the presence of estradiol in the culture medium, suggesting the possibility that a specific progesterone receptor mediates this effect of progesterone in the uterus.
Genetic variation of Glucose Transporter-1 (GLUT1) and albuminuria in 10,278 European Americans and African Americans: a case-control study in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

Evidence suggests glucose transporter-1(GLUT1) genetic variation affects diabetic nephropathy and albuminuria. Our aim was to evaluate associations with albuminuria of six GLUT1 single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs), particularly XbaI and the previously associated Enhancer-2(Enh2) SNP. A two-stage case-control study was nested in a prospective cohort study of 2156 African Americans and 8122 European Americans with urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio(ACR). Cases comprised albuminuria(N = 825; ≥ 30 μg/mg) and macroalbuminuria(N = 173; ≥ 300 μg/mg). ACR < 30 μg/mg classified controls(n = 9453). Logistic regression and odds ratios(OR) assessed associations. The evaluation phase(stage 1, n = 2938) tested associations of albuminuria(n = 305) with six GLUT1 SNPs: rs841839, rs3768043, rs2297977, Enh2(rs841847) XbaI(rs841853), and rs841858. Enh2 was examined separately in the replication phase(stage 2, n = 7340) and the total combined sample (n = 10,278), with all analyses stratified by race and type 2 diabetes. In European Americans, after adjusting for diabetes and other GLUT1 SNPs in stage 1, Enh2 risk genotype(TT) was more common in albuminuric cases(OR = 3.37, P = 0.090) whereas XbaI (OR = 0.94, p = 0.931) and remaining SNPs were not. In stage 1, the Enh2 association with albuminuria was significant among diabetic European Americans(OR = 2.36, P = 0.025). In African Americans, Enh2 homozygosity was rare(0.3%); XbaI was common(18.0% AA) and not associated with albuminuria. In stage 2(n = 7,340), Enh2 risk genotype had increased but non-significant OR among diabetic European Americans(OR = 1.66, P = 0.192) and not non-diabetics(OR = 0.99, p = 0.953), not replicating stage 1. Combining stages 1 and 2, Enh2 was associated with albuminuria(OR 2.14 [1.20-3.80], P = 0.009) and macroalbuminuria(OR 2.69, [1.02-7.09], P = 0.045) in diabetic European Americans. The Enh2 association with macroalbuminuria among non-diabetic European Americans with fasting insulin(OR = 1.84, P = 0.210) was stronger at the highest insulin quartile(OR = 4.08, P = 0.040). As demonstrated with type 1 diabetic nephropathy, the GLUT1 Enh2 risk genotype, instead of XbaI, may be associated with type 2 diabetic albuminuria among European Americans, though an association is not conclusive. The association among diabetic European Americans found in stage 1 was not replicated in stage 2; however, this risk association was evident after combining all diabetic European Americans from both stages. Additionally, our results suggest this association may extend to non-diabetics with high insulin concentrations. Rarity of the Enh2 risk genotype among African Americans precludes any definitive conclusions, although data suggest a risk-enhancing role.
Achromatic color categories.

Sternheim and Boynton’s (1966) continuous judgmental color-naming technique was used to assess the elemental nature of achromatic colors. Results from three subjects indicate that the names “black” and “white” are necessary and sufficient to describe achromatic test lights associated with the name “gray.” On the basis of the criteria that establishes a color as elemental, black and white were confirmed as elemental, whereas gray was not. These findings support the assumption of various opponent processing models that there are only two elemental achromatic sensations. In addition, the results support Hering’s (1920) view that black and white differ from the paired-chromatic opponent colors in that they are not mutually exclusive.
Coupling of charge stabilization, torsion and bond alternation in light-induced reactions of visual pigments

Abstract The effect of external charges on the potential surfaces of protonated Schiff bases of retinal is reexamined. It is found that coupling of charge stabilization, torsion and bond alternation may account for the occurrence of intermediates in reactions of visual and purple membrane pigments. The calculations indicate that the light energy may be used not only for cis - trans isomerization about double bonds but also for trapping charge stabilized intermediates. This suggests the intriguing possibility that prelumirhodopsin might be still in the cis configuration.
Interactions Responsible for Secondary Structure Formation during Folding of Equine β-Lactoglobulin

Equine beta-lactoglobulin forms a compact intermediate at an acidic pH (A state). It also forms an expanded and helical conformation at low temperatures (C state). The structure of a single disulfide mutant C66A/C160A is similar to the A state in the presence of salts, while it is similar to the C state at low anion concentrations. We have investigated the temperature-dependent change in the secondary structure using circular dichroism and proline scanning mutagenesis. At low anion concentrations, the helical content increased linearly as temperature decreased. In the presence of salts, the A state was cooperatively transformed into the C state at low temperatures. This suggests the importance of hydrophobic interactions for stabilizing the A state. Peptides encompassing native-like and non-native alpha-helices were synthesized to investigate the interactions responsible for helix formation in the A and C states. These did not form stable helices, indicating that not only the helices in the A state but also the helices in the C state are stabilized by long-range interactions. A longer fragment, CHIBL, which encompasses the structured region in the A and C states, showed a helical structure. Proline-substituted mutants of CHIBL showed CD spectral changes similar to the corresponding mutants of the full-length protein in the C state. Therefore, CHIBL has a structure similar to the corresponding region of the full-length protein in the C state. This result indicates that interactions responsible for helix formation in the C state reside in the sequence of CHIBL, and that the sequences outside CHIBL are essential for secondary structure formation in the A state.
PREDICTORS OF EXPATRIATE ADJUSTMENT

This study used a sample of 190 expatriates who worked for five multi‐national corporations to test part of a model of adjustment developed by Black, Mendenhall, and Oddou. The model is based on the theory that high levels of uncertainty lead to lower levels of adjustment. The study found that several variables—premove attitudes toward an international move, job satisfaction, role novelty, management's views on the effect of an international assignment on one's career, assurance of a job upon return, the cultural toughness of the host country, and the spouses' adjustment—were significant predictors of the expatriates' general adjustment, showing support for Black, Mendenhall, and Oddou's model. Findings from the study suggest that organizations could have a positive impact on assignment completion and expatriates' adjustment by assessing their organizations' positions and policies related to these variables.
The Micro in the Classroom

Microcomputers are becoming essential tools in urban planning This paper out lines a set of topics which are important to the understanding of the role of the micro in planning and which can be introduced into the classroom. These topics include electronic spreadsheets, programming languages, and data base management systems The topics are discussed in terms of class use and student response
The Course of Chronic Bullous Disease of Childhood

We followed three children who met the clinical, histologic, and immunologic criteria for chronic bullous disease of childhood (linear IgA dermatosis). All patients were able to discontinue therapy after two months to two years. Two have continued to experience transient mild episodes of blistering that have not required reinstitution of systemic therapy. In our opinion, children with this condition have a benign course with disease-free remissions and can be expected to discontinue all therapy eventually.
Polyhedral Combinatorics and Network Reliability

This paper studies the reliability of systems comprised of variables which must satisfy a set of linear equalities and nonnegativity constraints, and which are subject to random failure. A major example, which will be given special emphasis, is the reachability source-to-all connectedness reliability problem for stochastic networks. We show how properties of convex polyhedra, and their network counterparts, are useful in determining properties of the reliability polynomial for these systems. In particular, we show how recent results by Stanley and by Billera and Lee concerning the face numbers of convex polytopes and polyhedra can be applied to provide good upper and lower bounds on reliability in linear systems, and we apply these bounds in the network examples.
Monoamine innervation of the forebrain: Collateralization

Abstract The forebrain is characterized by a dense, localized dopamine (DA) innervation pattern, a diffuse, widespread norepinephrine (NE) innervation pattern, and a serotonin (5-HT) innervation intermediate between the DA and NE patterns. These innervation patterns have implied that basic differences exist in the way DA, NE and 5-HT axons collateralize to different brain structures; that is, DA axons are thought to be poorly collateralized and NE and 5-HT axons are presumed to be more highly collateralized. In the present study, we used injections of retrograde labeling fluorescent dyes into various forebrain regions in order to determine axonal branching patterns from nuclei that contain DA, NE and 5-HT neurons, namely the substantia nigra-ventral tegmental area (SN-VTA), locus coeruleus (LC) and raphe nuclei (DR-MR). The results suggest that at least two subpopulations of neurons can be defined in each monoamine nucleus with respect to the way their axons collateralize. Each area contains a centrally located nuclear area with highly collateralized neurons, and more peripherally situated areas with less highly collateralized neurons. Thus, previous suppositions of the branching of monoamine axons must be revised to account for the existence of cells exhibiting totally different Collateralization patterns within each monoamine nucleus.
Tribological studies of thermally and chemically modified vegetable oils for use as environmentally friendly lubricants

Abstract Boundary lubrication in a dynamic mechanical system is primarily governed by the formation of a stable tribochemical film. Polar functional groups in the triacylglycerol molecule of vegetable oil in conjunction with oil–additive–metal interaction during the metal rubbing process can significantly improve the wear resistance and extreme-pressure lubrication. Increasing the polar functionality of vegetable oil structure has a positive impact on wear protection resulting from stronger adsorption on metal surface as well as greater lateral interaction between the ester chains. The results reveal that ester groups of triacylglycerol molecule react with phosphate groups to form a protective fatty-phosphite layer. Antimony impregnation into the metal surface following strong complexation reaction with metal sulfide results in significant improvement in extreme-pressure characteristics due to alteration in surface metallurgy. In this case, seizure is averted even when the fluid adsorbed layer and phosphite coating is removed because of antimony induced surface hardness. The difference can be observed by analyzing the metal surface using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Selected bio fluids viz. soybean oil (SBO), thermally modified soybean oil (TMSBO) and chemically modified soybean oil (CMSBO) were investigated for potential application as industrial fluids.
Symmetries, dimensional reduction, and topological quantum order

We prove sufficient conditions for Topological Quantum Order at zero and finite temperatures. The crux of the proof hinges on the existence of low-dimensional Gauge-Like Symmetries, thus providing a unifying framework based on a symmetry principle. All known examples of Topological Quantum Order display Gauge-Like Symmetries. Other systems exhibiting such symmetries include Hamiltonians depicting orbital-dependent spin exchange and Jahn-Teller effects in transition metal orbital compounds, short-range frustrated Klein spin models, and p+ip superconducting arrays. We analyze the physical consequences of Gauge-Like Symmetries (including topological terms and charges) and, most importantly, show the insufficiency of the energy spectrum, (recently defined) entanglement entropy, maximal string correlators, and fractionalization in establishing Topological Quantum Order. Duality mappings illustrate that not withstanding the existence of spectral gaps, thermal fluctuations may impose restrictions on suggested topological quantum computing schemes. Our results allow us to go beyond standard topological field theories and engineer new systems with Topological Quantum Order.
Fabrication of multiple fiber-Bragg gratings on one SMF using a single phase-mask

UV light from an Excimer laser operating at 248 nm with fluence of 800 mJ/cm 2 per pulse at 30 Hz repetition rate is used for writing process of a fiber Bragg Grating (FBG). Multiple FBGs with different center wavelength and reflectivity are produced by varying strain and exposure time on a single strand of a SMF where 1552.75 nm is the center wavelength of the unstretched FBG. The in-situ measurement of the reflectivity, bandwidth and center wavelength of each Bragg grating will be described. We will also present an RF technique for measuring the separation between two adjacent FBGs.
Raman-noise-induced noise-figure limit for Χ(3) parametric amplifiers

The nonzero response time of the Kerr [χ3] nonlinearity determines the quantum-limited noise figure of χ3 parametric amplifiers. This nonzero response time of the nonlinearity requires coupling of the parametric amplification process to a molecular-vibration phonon bath, causing the addition of excess noise through Raman gain or loss at temperatures above 0 K. The effect of this excess noise on the noise figure can be surprisingly significant. We derive analytical expressions for this quantum-limited noise figure for phase-insensitive operation of a χ3 amplifier and show good agreement with published noise-figure measurements.
Spin−Orbit Splittings in Mg+−Neutral Complexes

Potential energy curves for the , A2Π1/2,3/2, and states of the Mg+−RG type complexes (where RG = Ar, Xe) were generated using relativistic spin−orbit configuration-interaction calculations based o...
Neonatal ventriculosubgaleal shunts.

Objective We report on 32 neonates treated with ventriculosubgaleal (VSG) shunts to determine VSG shunt survival and associated complications. Methods Between 1993 and 1997, 37 VSG shunts were placed in 32 neonates when the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or the abdomen was considered unsuitable for ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. In each child, a ventricular catheter was attached to 3 cm of a closed-end peritoneal tube via a right-angle connector, which drained into a surgically created subgaleal pocket. Results The causes of hydrocephalus were as follows: intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in 20 neonates, meningitis/ventriculitis in 6, IVH and infection in 2, and other causes in 4. The mean postconception age at the time of VSG shunt insertion was 37.2 weeks (33.1 wk in the IVH group), and the mean weight was 2227 g (1724 g in the IVH group). The average preoperative head circumference was 33.6 cm. The average survival of these 37 VSG shunts (five children had two VSG shunts) was 35.1 days. The complications were as follows: one CSF leakage occurred when sutures were removed; one catheter fell into the ventricle and required removal, and one child died immediately after VSG shunt revision. There were no VSG shunt infections. All surviving children followed for a minimum of 4 months after insertion of a VSG shunt (n = 24) have required a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Mean follow-up from the time of first VSG shunt insertion was 21.6 months. Four children died as a result of causes unrelated to the VSG shunt. Conclusion VSG shunts offer a simple, effective, and relatively safe means of temporizing hydrocephalus, and they avoid the need for external drainage or frequent CSF aspiration in these medically unstable infants until the CSF characteristics and abdomen are acceptable for ventriculoperitoneal shunting.
Murine immune responses to herpes simplex virus-1 in relation to nutrition

We have observed significantly different immune responses for mice maintained on two different diets. These differences correlate with earlier observed differences in survival rates of mice following infection with herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV). The diets, presumably nutritionally complete, were a Purina laboratory chow, and a Teklad egg white diet. This investigation examined both cell-mediated and humoral immunity to determine what responses aid in resistance to herpes infection in relation to nutrition. An infectious center assay using cultured peritoneal adherent cells demonstrated that macrophages from Teklad-fed mice inhibited viral replication to a greater extent than macrophages form Purina-fed animals. Macrophages from Teklad-fed mice were more efficient at phagocytizing latex beads. Interferon titers from plasma, spleen and cultured macrophages from Teklad-fed mice were significantly higher in response to stimulation by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid or inactive HSV than Purina-fed animal titers. Antibody titers following immunization with inactive HSV were equivalent for the dietary groups. We conclude that early, non-specific responses are in large part responsible for resistance to HSV infection and that the Teklad diet enhances these responses. The macrophage is important for ingestion of virus, inhibition of replication and interferon production.
A near-upstream element in a plant polyadenylation signal consists of more than six nucleotides

A plant polyadenylation signal consists of three distinct components: a far-upstream element (FUE) that can control utilization of several polyadenylation sites, one or more near-upstream elements (NUEs) that control utilization of each site in a transcription unit, and polyadenylation site (CSs) themselves. NUEs have previously been suggested to be related to the mammalian polyadenylation signal AAUAAA. However, many plant genes do not contain AAUAAA-like motifs near their polyadenylation sites. To better understand the nature of NUEs, we conducted a systematic analysis of the NUE for one polyadenylation site (site 1) in the pea rbcS-E9 gene; this NUE lacks an AAUAAA motif. Linker substitution studies showed that the NUE for site 1 in this gene resides in the sequence AAAUGGAAA. Single-nucleotide substitutions in this domain had modest effects on the functioning of this NUE. Replacement of part of this sequence with the sequence AAUAAA increased the efficiency of this NUE. However, alteration of nucleotides immediately 3' of the AAUAAA reversed this effect. Our results indicate that the NUE for site 1 consists of as many as 9 nucleotides, that these 9 bases do not include an element that is intolerant of single base changes, that the sequence AAUAAA can function as a NUE for site 1, and that sequences flanking AAUAAA can affect the efficiency of functioning as a NUE.
Thioacetamide II: Substitute for Hydrogen Sulfide in the Quantitative Analysis of Medicinal Chemicals

Assay procedures utilizing thioacetamide and hydrogen sulfide gas have been compared. The advantages of using thioacetamide are discussed.
Angiopoietin-like proteins stimulate ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells.

Successful ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) would greatly benefit the treatment of disease and the understanding of crucial questions of stem cell biology. Here we show, using microarray studies, that the HSC-supportive mouse fetal liver CD3+ cells specifically express the proteins angiopoietin-like 2 (Angptl2) and angiopoietin-like 3 (Angptl3). We observed a 24- or 30-fold net expansion of long-term HSCs by reconstitution analysis when we cultured highly enriched HSCs for 10 days in the presence of Angptl2 or Angptl3 together with saturating levels of other growth factors. The coiled-coil domain of Angptl2 was capable of stimulating expansion of HSCs. Furthermore, angiopoietin-like 5, angiopoietin-like 7 and microfibril-associated glycoprotein 4 also supported expansion of HSCs in culture.
Overexpression of GDNF induces and maintains hyperinnervation of muscle fibers and multiple end-plate formation.

This study examined the role of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in synaptic plasticity at the developing neuromuscular junction. Transgenic mice overexpressing GDNF in skeletal muscle under the myosin light chain-1 promoter were isolated. Northern blot and ELISA at 6 weeks of age indicated that GDNF mRNA and protein levels were elevated threefold in the lateral gastrocnemius muscle (LGM) of the GDNF-transgenic animals. Histochemical examination of LGM tissue sections at 6 weeks of age revealed a 70% increase in the number of cholinesterase-positive end plates without changes in end-plate area. Multiple end plates on a single muscle fiber were also observed, in addition to multiple axonal processes terminating on individual end plates. No change in the number of spinal motoneurons, overall LGM size, or muscle type composition was observed. Finally, overexpression of GDNF in muscle caused hypertrophy of neuronal somata in dorsal root ganglia without affecting their number. These findings demonstrate that overexpression of a single neurotrophic factor in skeletal muscle induces multiple end-plate formation and maintains hyperinnervation well beyond the normal developmental period. We suggest that GDNF, a muscle-derived motoneuron neurotrophic factor, serves an important role in the regulation of synaptic plasticity in the developing and adult neuromuscular junction.
Primary and secondary prevention among adults: an analysis with comments on screening and health education.

A review of the literature relating to a variety of diseases afflicting adults shows that only a small number is preventable by risk factor modification, and in the majority, the risk factors are the societal intoxicants alcohol and tobacco. There is also only a small number of diseases in which there is clear evidence that detection in the early presymptomatic stages results in an outcome different from that observed if the disease is detected when symptoms occur. If primary (risk factor modification) or secondary (early intervention) approaches to medicine are to be effective, health education efforts will have to be augmented markedly. An analysis of health knowledge and patterns of licit and illicit intoxicant use in four schools or school systems suggests that current health education programs are not achieving their stated objectives. A review of current screening practices for asymptomatic persons suggests that the battery of tests used might be significantly altered in order to focus efforts on those diseases that present data show reasonably convincingly can be modified by secondary prevention. A 10-point program of selective screening and risk factor modification is proposed which is believed to be achievable, practical, and acceptable to consumers.
Anti-plane shear deformations of anisotropic sandwich structures: End effects

Abstract Saint-Venant decay lengths for self-equilibrated edge loads in symmetric sandwich structures are examined in the context of anti-plane shear for linear anisotropic elasticity. The most general anisotropy consistent with a state of anti-plane shear is considered. Anti-plane or longitudinal shear deformations are one of the simplest classes of deformations in solid mechanics. The resulting deformations are completely characterized by a single out-of-plane displacement that depends only on the in-plane coordinates. In linear elasticity, Saint-Venant's principle is used to show that self-equilibrated loads generate local stress effects that decay away from the loaded end of a structure. For homogeneous isotropic linear elastic materials this is well-documented. Selfequilibrated loads area class of load distributions that are statically equivalent to zero, i.e., have zero resultant force and moment. When Saint-Venant's principle is valid, pointwise boundary conditions can be replaced by more tractable resultant conditions. It is shown in the present study that material inhomogeneity and anisotropy significantly affects the practical application of SaintVenant's principle to sandwich structures.
Dynamics of Differential Rotating Sphere and Pulsar

The dynamics of the differential rotating sphere is worked out. In view of the results, a theory for producing the pulse of pulsars is proposed.
Extrapineal N-acetyltransferase activity in rat brain.

Abstract An extrapineal enzyme that N-acetylates a variety of indole and catechol alkylamines, including the psychoactive drugs mescaline and d-amphetamine, has been partially purified from rat brain. This enzymatic activity has a distinct pH optimum, is linear with incubation time and protein concetration, and is abolished by heating. Purification is approximately ten fold with ammonium sulfate precipitation and column chromatography, yielding a specific activity of 7936 pmoles of product per mg of protein per hour with tryptamine as substrate.
Design for a multiple target system for a medical cyclotron

A novel target system has been designed for a compact cyclotron. The system permits one of three or more targets to be selected remotely for bombardment, permits all target and chemical operations to be controlled remotely, causes no change in beam energy or beam current, occupies a limited space, and is simple to construct and maintain. The targets are mounted to a flexible bellows-multiple port manifold assembly, supported on a fan-shaped turntable. A motor moves the system to align the target to be bombarded with the main beam axis. Designs for two subassemblies are also presented. These are a retractable target chamber for water and a remotely controlled variable collimator.
Amplifying Btk's Signal

Abstract The Tec kinase Btk is an important regulator of antigen receptor activation of phospholipase C-γ (PLC-γ). Data from Carpenter and colleagues (Saito et al., 2003, this issue of Immunity ) now suggest that Btk also activates phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K), thereby stimulating a positive feedback loop that generates PI(4,5)P 2 , the substrate for both phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and PLC-γ.
Carpal tunnel syndrome as the initial manifestation of scleroderma

Two cases of scleroderma (systemic sclerosis) in which carpal tunnel syndrome was the initial manifestation are described. The development of persistent bilateral swelling of the hand after division of the transverse carpal ligament was a clue to the underlying disorder.
Religion and Foreign Policy Attitudes Exploring the Effects of Denomination and Doctrine

The effects of religious memberships and beliefs on general foreign policy orientations and on attitudes toward aspects of the Gulf War are examined. Although the effects of religion on foreign pol...
Older adults' early disability following a cardiac event.

Using the disablement model, the authors examined the following questions in adults 70 years of age and older during the 6 weeks following hospitalization for a cardiac event: (a) What are the patt...
The proton-proton reaction and related reactions in an intense magnetic field

The reaction rates for the proton-proton reaction and the related electron capture reaction in a strongly magnetized relativistic electron gas of arbitrary degree of degeneracy are computed. The proton-proton reaction rates are unaffected by the presence of the magnetic field for field strengths up to the critical valueH q =m2c3/eħ=4.414×1013G. For fields greater thanH q , the proton-proton reaction rates are enhanced linearly with Θ (Θ=H/H q ).
GLP-1 PROMOTES ANGIOGENESIS IN A DOSE-DEPENDENT MANNER, THROUGH THE PI3K/AKT, PKC AND NITRIC OXIDE PATHWAYS

GLP-1 is secreted by the intestinal L-cells and has been proposed to have a beneficial role in the cardiovascular system. Novel anti-diabetic medications that mimic or augment its function improve cardiovascular risk factors in diabetics. GLP-1 has recently been proposed to have a direct
Periocular inflammation after retrobulbar chlorpromazine (thorazine) injection.

PURPOSE Retrobulbar chlorpromazine injection is a relatively recently described method of pain control in nonseeing eyes. This report illustrates severe sterile inflammation as a potential complication. METHODS In this university-based, retrospective, small case series, we reviewed the records of 2 female patients and 1 male patient (ages, 13 to 89 years) who developed severe inflammation after retrobulbar chlorpromazine injection. RESULTS Three patients had development of severe periocular edema after retrobulbar chlorpromazine injection. Two had development of chemosis, limited extraocular motility, proptosis, and incomplete eyelid closure, necessitating temporary tarsorrhaphy. The third patient had development of facial edema involving the ipsilateral eyelids, forehead, and cheek. Strikingly, it extended to the contralateral face. All 3 patients denied discomfort. In each case, swelling was first noted the day after injection and progressed for 1 week. All were treated with topical lubrication and two with temporary tarsorrhaphy. Resolution occurred within 3 weeks in each case. CONCLUSIONS Severe periocular inflammation can result from retrobulbar chlorpromazine injection and may manifest as chemosis, proptosis, limited ocular motility, and facial swelling that may extend well beyond the eyelids. Awareness of this potential adverse reaction is important both for patient counseling before injection and subsequent treatment. Specifically, a sterile inflammatory response should be differentiated from infection to avoid inappropriate therapy.
Role of protein kinase a in LPS-induced activation of NF-κB proteins of a mouse macrophage-like cell line, J774☆

The electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) with the use of the synthetic HIV-1 NF-kappa B motif as a probe, showed that LPS-treatment of J774 cells (a mouse macrophage cell line) leads to the activation of the fast-moving (denoted as B1) and the slow-moving NF-kappa B (denoted as B2). The binding of both B1 and B2 to the NF-kappa B probe was inhibited specifically by either unlabelled NF-kappa B, or competitor probes, but not by unrelated probes. LPS-induced activation of NF-kappa B was inhibited by a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor (H-89), but not by a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor (H-7). PMA itself failed to activate NF-kappa B and the depletion of PKC did not prevent LPS-induced activation of NF-kappa B. The pre-treatment of J774 cells with dibutyric cAMP, forskolin, prostaglandin E2 or cholera toxin resulted in NF-kappa B activation. Thus, these data suggested a probable involvement of PKA in LPS-induced NF-kappa B activation in macrophages.
Malignant giant-cell tumor of the parietal bone: case report and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: Giant-cell tumors (GCTs) are primary bone tumors that involve long bones in 75 to 90% of patients. They seldom develop in the cranium and are very rare in patients older than 60 years of age. A GCT rarely occurs with Paget's disease; when it does, however, it is most commonly associated with the polyostotic form and tends to involve the craniofacial bones. Pagetic GCTs are less aggressive than GCTs that are not associated with Paget's disease. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We report the case of an 81-year-old woman with a painless left parietal mass and asymptomatic monostotic parietal Paget's disease. INTERVENTION: Surgical resection was performed, and histological examination of the lesion demonstrated Paget's disease with a malignant GCT. An incidental, low-grade, small-cell lymphocytic lymphoma also was noted. The patient experienced local recurrence of the malignant GCT and eventually died after developing pulmonary metastases of the malignant GCT. CONCLUSION: This case is the first reported example of a patient with a malignant GCT of the cranium associated with monostotic Paget's disease. It provides evidence that not all pagetic GCTs in the cranium are benign, as has been reported.