cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Creatine kinase activity in normal and Duchenne muscular dystrophy fibroblasts

Cultured human skin fibroblasts from 9 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and 8 normal age- and sex-matched controls were examined for creatine kinase (CK) activity. Both the normal and the DMD fibroblasts were found to have significant levels of CK activity (approximately 10 x 10(-3) IU per milligram of fibroblast protein). The control cells had slightly higher CK activity than the DMD lines, but this difference was not significant (0.2 less than P less than 0.1). The MM (muscle) isozyme, the BB (brain) isozyme, and the MB (hybrid) isozyme, of CK were found to be present in fibroblasts. The isozymes were separated by electrophoresis and the relative amount of each was determined for both normal and DMD cells. In normal fibroblasts, approximately 48% of the total CK activity was of the MM type, 40% was of the BB type, and 12% was of the MB type with no significant differences apparent between normal and DMD groups. The presence in human fibroblasts of significant levels of CK activity with a characteristic isozyme profile is an important consideration for studies of this "marker" enzyme in the pseudohypertrophic muscle of DMD.
Shift invariant spaces inL 2

If e is a complex, separable Hilbert space, letL 2 (e) denote theL 2-space of functions defined on the unit circle and having values in e. The bilateral shift onL 2(e) is the operator (U e f)(λ)=λf(λ). A Hilbert spaceH iscontractively contained in the Hilbert spaceK ifH⊂K and the inclusion mapH−K is a contraction. We describe the structure of those Hilbert spaces, contractively contained inL 2(e), that are carried into themselves contractively byU e. We also do this for the subcase of those spaces which are carried into themselves unitarily byU e.
Closed‐cycle cryogenic pump suitable for sounding rockets use

We have successfully used a closed‐cycle cryogenic cooling system as a high‐speed UHV pump for instruments carried into the upper atmosphere on board sounding rockets. The device utilizes a commercially available, Sterling‐cycle refrigerator that has proven to be rugged and simple to use under field conditions.
Galanin and vasoactive intestinal peptide messenger RNAs increase following axotomy of adult sympathetic neurons

The adult rat superior cervical ganglion (SSG) contains low levels of galanin- and vasoactive intestinal peptide-(VIP) like immunoreactivity, with very few immuno-stained principal neurons. Immunoreactivity for both neuropeptides increases in these neurons after explanation or postganglionic axotomy in vivo. Northern blot analysis had demonstrated concomitant increases in mRNAs encoding these peptides. To localize cells in axotomized ganglia which increase their expression of these mRNAs, we performed in situ hybridization studies. In control SCG, only a few principal neurons contained mRNA for either galanin or VIP. After 48 h in organ culture, galanin mRNA was expressed in the majority of principal neurons. At 48 h after in vivo axotomy of both postganglionic trunks of the SCG, the internal and external carotid nerves, the distribution and number of neurons expressing galanin mRNA increased similarly to that seen in culture. Lesioning either trunk alone produced increases in galanin mRNA localized to those regions of the ganglion containing neurons that project into the lesioned trunk. Transection of the predominantly preganglionic cervical sympathetic trunk increased galanin mRNA expression in a small population of neurons that nerve trunk. The distributions of these labeled neurons, together with previous neuroanatomical studies, suggests that they had been axotomised by the lesions. Similar studies examining VIP mRNA expression demonstrated that although considerably fewer VIP mRNA expressing neurons than galanin mRNA expressing neurons were present after axotomy, the distribution of neuropeptide mRNA-positive cells were similar in both cases. These observations suggest that increases in the peptide galanin and VIP after nerve transection result from changes in the levels of their mRNAs in those neurons that have been axotomized. 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Principal centered professional development

(1986). Principal centered professional development. Theory Into Practice: Vol. 25, Developing Administrative Leadership, pp. 156-160.
HIV/AIDS in the Southern USA: A disproportionate epidemic

This research synthesis examined HIV/AIDS surveillance and health care financing data and reviewed relevant research literature to describe HIV epidemiology, outcomes, funding, and contributing factors to the HIV epidemic in the Southern USA with particular focus on a group of Southern states with similar demographic and disease characteristics and comparable HIV epidemics (Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Los Angeles, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas). These states are hereafter referred to as "targeted Southern states." Eight of the 10 states with the highest HIV diagnosis rates in 2011 were in the Southern USA; six were targeted states. Forty-nine percent of HIV diagnoses were in the South in 2011, which contains only 37% of the US population. The targeted states region had the highest HIV diagnosis rate than any other US region in 2011. The South was also found to have the highest HIV-related mortality and morbidity rates in the USA. The high levels of poverty, HIV-related stigma, and STDs found in the South, particularly in the targeted Southern states, likely contribute to greater HIV incidence and mortality. The disproportionate impact of HIV in the South, particularly among targeted states, demonstrates a critical need to improve HIV prevention and care and address factors that contribute to HIV disease in this region.
Narcotics Anonymous: Its History, Structure, and Approach

Although Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is the oldest and largest self-help group for the support of drug abusers, it has received little study. This paper provides an overview of the history, structure, philosophy, and activities of the NA fellowship based on interviews with members, a survey of the NA literature, and observation at a residential therapeutic community employing the NA approach. The latter data provide a means of analyzing the relationship between NA and those implementing its program. Suggestions for research are advanced in recognition of Narcotics Anonymous as both underground social movement and major treatment modality for drug abusers.
Enhancing Literacy in the Second Grade: Five Related Studies Using the Register Music/Reading Curriculum

The purpose of these five related studies was to ascertain the effects of a music curriculum designed to enhance reading skills of second-grade students. The dependent variables were subtest scores on the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Test administered pre and post the music/reading intervention. Results showed that the total test gain scores of children receiving the music/reading curriculum were somewhat higher than those for control conditions in four of the five studies, but not significantly so. At the second site, gain scores were basically the same. All sites informally observed teacher and pupil enthusiasm for the music for reading curriculum. Though postreading scores were statistically equivalent among groups, it should be noted that in most sites, the music/reading curriculum time replaced reading instruction time. The value of this project is that it demonstrates the general benefits of music as a viable methodology for teaching reading skills at a comparable level while promoting enjoyment in an i...
Water-dependent reactions of diiron(II) carboxylate complexes.

Carboxylate-rich diiron(II) compounds with varying numbers of water ligands have been characterized, including the first complex with a {Fe2(μ-OH2)2(μ-O2CArTol)}3+ unit. The isolation of these complexes reveals how water can alter the structural properties of carboxylate-bridged diiron(II) core similar to those that occur in a variety of dioxygen-activating metalloenzyme cores. Mossbauer and variable temperature, variable field magnetic susceptibility experiments indicate that the compound [Fe2(μ-OH2)2(μ-O2CAr4F-Ph)(O2CAr4F-Ph)3(THF)2(OH2)] has a high-spin diiron(II) core with little significant magnetic exchange coupling.
Additive Manufacturing of Ti-6Al-4V Using a Pulsed Laser Beam

Microstructural development in directed-energy additive manufacturing of metal components is a complex process that produces parts with materials whose microstructure and properties are influenced by multiple heating and cooling cycles. Much work has been undertaken to correlate microstructural development with processing conditions, such as laser power and processing speed. Here, the microstructure and indentation hardness of a Ti-6Al-4V component processed with a pulsing laser beam and a continuous wave (CW) laser beam are investigated. It is found that the pulsed-beam build showed no statistically significant variation in lath width or indentation hardness with build height while the build deposited with the CW beam showed a statistically significant decrease in hardness and an increase in lath width near the middle of the build. The reduction in variability with beam pulsing is attributed to rapid cooling rates within the melt pool, a greater degree of melt pool stirring, and reduced aging during part build-up.
Morphology of migrating trigeminal motor neuroblasts as revealed by horseradish peroxidase retrograde labeling techniques

Abstract The trigeminal motor sensory roots were severed in chick embryos on days 2.5 4.5 of incubation and horseradish peroxidase applied to the wound. This procedure retrogradely labels developing trigeminal motor neuroblasts whose axons are at the level of the incision. In day 2.5 embryos, migrating and lateral trigeminal motor neuroblasts were labeled only when the incision was 8 μm from the metencephalon. Migrating cells did not have somatic processes whereas cells of the lateral nucleus had one dendritc-like process extending dorsally. No cells of the medial column, a cluster of premigratory trigeminal motor neuroblasts, were labeled at this age. In the 3-, 3.5-, 4- and 4.5-day embryos, medial column cells, migratory cells and lateral nucleus cells were retrogradely labeled by this procedure. At all these ages, medial column cells tend to have few somatic filopodia migratory cells tend to have increased filopodia as they proceed laterally, and lateral nucleus cells arc characterized either by a single, long dendrite-like process dorsally directed, or a radiation of short, stubby processes. Axons of medial column and migratory cells take a sinuous course across the metencephalon and frequently exhibit small branches and localized swellings. Axons of lateral nucleus cells rarely have branches within the brain stem and usually enter the motor root at an acute angle from their origin at the soma. The central processes of the trigeminal ganglion cells are also labeled with this procedure. In all embryos these fibers were confined to the trigeminal spinal tract at the level of the trigeminal motor nucleus. Caudally, small fibers were observed to exit this tract in the presumed region of the developing trigeminal spinal nucleus. This study demonstrates that axonal outgrowth into the periphery precedes somatic migration and translocation in the trigeminal motor nucleus During their migration, trigeminal motor neuroblasts appear to be in proximity to axons of adjacent migrating cells. Considerable differentiation occurs during this process.
A Fast, Network-based, Hybrid Heuristic for the Assignment of Students to Schools

In an era of declining and fluctuating enrolments, the determination of appropriate school sizes and student assignments poses difficult problems for administrators. For two decades, researchers have worked with variants of a linear programming districting model which minimizes total weighted distance as all students are assigned to schools constrained by both capacity and racial balance limitations. This model could aid in the generation of districting alternatives, but is difficult to solve in realistic applications with generalized solution procedures because of overall problem size. This has prompted the development of fast, network-based models, solvable with special algorithms and codes. We show, however, that these approaches all contain major shortcomings. We present a fast, hybrid heuristic based upon two network representations. Computational results demonstrate this to be a very fast solution approach for the general case of this districting problem.
Quorum Sensing-Dependent Biofilms Enhance Colonization in Vibrio cholerae

Vibrio cholerae is the causative agent of the diarrheal disease cholera. By an incompletely understood developmental process, V. cholerae forms complex surface-associated communities called biofilms. Here we show that quorum sensing-deficient mutants of V. cholerae produce thicker biofilms than those formed by wild-type bacteria. Microarray analysis of biofilm-associated bacteria shows that expression of the Vibrio polysaccharide synthesis (vps) operons is enhanced in hapR mutants. CqsA, one of two known autoinducer synthases in V. cholerae, acts through HapR to repress vps gene expression. Vibrio biofilms are more acid resistant than planktonic cells. However, quorum sensing-deficient biofilms have lower colonization capacities than those of wild-type biofilms, suggesting that quorum sensing may promote cellular exit from the biofilm once the organisms have traversed the gastric acid barrier of the stomach. These results shed light on the relationships among biofilm development, quorum sensing, infectivity, and pathogenesis in V. cholerae.
Ovarian endodermal sinus tumor with intestinal differentiation

A 12-year-old girl was admitted to the hospital for evaluation of an abdominal mass. A preoperative computed tomography scan showed a large tumor in the pelvis. The serum alpha-fetoprotein level was 2,170,000 ng/ml. A 3000-g left ovarian neoplasm was resected. It was encapsulated and showed focal microcystic degeneration, necrosis, and hemorrhage. Microscopically, it was composed of gland-like spaces containing mucin-positive material and surrounded by scant fibrovascular tissue. The epithelial cells were low columnar with immature oval, basophilic nuclei. Immunoperoxidase staining for alpha-fetoprotein and alpha1-antitrypsin were positive. Enzyme histochemistry was negative for alkaline phosphatase and positive for alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase. Electron microscopy, including freeze-fracture analysis, showed desmosomes and tight junctions. No gap junctions were identified. Actin filaments, glycogen, and microvilli were abundant. This is the first case of an ovarian endodermal sinus tumor with exclusive enteric differentiation.
ANTIGEN-SPECIFIC ENHANCEMENT OF THE HUMAN ANTIBODY RESPONSE BY A SUBSTITUTED NUCLEOSIDE: 71

The antigen-specific primary antibody response of human lymphocytes in vitro was studied with respect to dependency upon interleukin 2 (IL-2) and subsequent modulation by C8-substituted guanine ribonucleosides. The specific response to sheep erythrocytes was shown to be dependent upon IL-2. Addition of optimal concentrations of the nucleoside, 7-methyl-8-oxoquanosine (7m8oGuo), to cultures containing antigen and IL-2, caused marked amplification of the underlying antibody response. Synergy between 7m8oGuo and IL-2 was antigen-dependent and could not be accounted for by the independent antigen-specific and nonspecific components. That IL-2 itself was responsible for both the specific response to antigen and synergy with 7m8oGuo was confirmed by use of recombinant IL-2. 7m8oGuo enhanced the response to antigen in a dose-dependent fashion. Kinetic studies demonstrated that this nucleoside acts in the context of an ongoing immune response, because its addition could be delayed up to 3 days without loss of activity. The ability of 7m8oGuo to bypass the requirement for intact T cells in this response was substantiated by investigating the ability of B cell-enriched populations to respond to the T-dependent antigen, SRBC, in the presence and absence of 7m8oGuo. T cell-depleted populations were capable of responding to antigen in the presence of 7m8oGuo so long as IL-2 was also present. These data demonstrate that a simple nucleoside analog can amplify the human antibody response in an antigen-specific manner and may act as an alternate source of T cell help.
Effects of plasma treated water on plants

Summary form only given. Water quality, its mineralization and chemical composition, particularly pH and nitrogen compounds, play crucial role in plant's development and growth. Treatment of water with plasma results in change of its properties and chemical composition, which in turn may affect plant growth process and subsequently agriculture produce quality.
Genotype-adjusted familial correlation analysis using three generalized estimating equations.

We analyze familial correlation of a memory score from Caribbean Hispanic families that have multiple family members affected with Alzheimer's disease, adjusting for having at least one APOE-e4 allele, as well as other confounders. To enhance the efficiency of correlation model, this paper proposes an alternative approach for three generalized estimating equations proposed by Yan and Fine (Statist. Med. 2004; 23:859–874). The efficiency of correlation model is evaluated through the asymptotic relative efficiency computation and simulations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting tree frequencies from pollen frequency: an attempt to validate the R value method

SUMMARY Pollen-tree correction factors are presented using regression analysis of pre-settlement tree and pollen frequency data from 32 small lakes (1–10 ha) in Wisconsin. Regression results using vegetation samples from various sized areas around each lake for Fagus grandifolia (Ehrh.) and Tsuga canadensis (Carr.), are consistent with my initial design of using vegetation data for the single township in which a lake was found to compute the regression results. Pollen-tree correction factors from pre-settlement and modern data were compared for all major pollen types. Notable differences were found between pre-settlement data and modern data sets for Wisconsin in Betula spp, T. canadensis, and Quercus spp. Little difference was observed in the fit of the regressions for these data sets. Estimations of pre-settlement relative tree frequencies, derived from the application of modern correction factors on pre-settlement pollen frequencies, were compared to measurements of pre-settlement vegetation. The reconstruction of pre-settlement vegetation was incongruous with measurements of pre-settlement tree frequencies. It is unclear, given minor differences in the data sources for modern and pre-settlement data, whether the observed differences in regression results are artifacts of the data sets, or reflect differences in pollen-tree representation between the two time periods sampled. Regardless, the error associated with prediction of tree frequencies from pollen frequencies is shown here to preclude any assurance of accuracy with normal pollen count levels.
Comparison of methodologies to measure human lung histamine.

Abstract The measurement of histamine in samples obtained from human lung is important in determining the roles of histamine and mast cells in normal and disease states. We, therefore, compared different assays for the measurement of histamine in human lung samples. Both a single isotope enzymatic assay and a radioimmunoassay (RIA) were capable of accurately measuring the low concentrations of histamine (0.05–2.0 ng/ml) normally found in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The RIA was also able to measure histamine levels up to 1500 ng/ml in human lung tissue samples. Moreover, the RIA measurement of high levels of histamine in lung samples compared favorably to an automated spectrofluorometric method. Unlike either the single isotope enzymatic assay or the automated spectrofluorometric assay which have effective capabilities at less than and greater than 2 ng/ml, respectively, the RIA can accurately measure histamine levels from 0.05 to 1500 ng/ml. Since the RIA is easier to perform, less costly, and has a wider range of effectiveness, this assay should prove valuable in assessing histamine levels from a variety of human lung samples, thereby, providing an avenue to elucidate the roles of histamine and mast cells in lung functions.
Sporicidal activity of tertiary butyl hydroperoxide

Tertiary butyl hydroperoxide (t-BOOH) was found to be sporicidal for Bacillus megaterium ATCC19213. Sporicidal action was very temperature dependent, and the potency of t-BOOH increased about tenfold for each increase in temperature of 15 °C over the range from 30° to 70 °C. At still higher temperatures, heat and μmolar levels of t-BOOH were mutually potentiating for killing. Vegetative cells and germinated spores were some thousand times less resistant to t-BOOH than dormant spores. The order of resistance for spores was: Bacillus stearothermophilus ATCC7953 > Bacillus subtilis var. niger = Bacillus megaterium ATCC33729 > Bacillus megaterium ATCC19213. Killing was not enhanced by decoating and occurred without germination or loss of refractility of the spores. Spore resistance to t-BOOH was lower at more acid pH values and was decreased also by demineralization. Spores could be protected by the chelator o-phenanthroline, especially in association with Fe2+. Overall, it seemed that killing was associated with nonmetabolic formation of alkyl peroxyl radicals, which are thought to be responsible for killing of vegetative cells by organic hydroperoxides.
A physical understanding of the noise performance of MOS transistors for wireless and lightwave applications in the giga-bit regime (Invited Paper)

Functional requirements for modern narrow-band and wide-band wireless and lightwave communication systems place stringent demands on speed and noise behavior of circuits and devices used to design them. MOS technology in the nanometer regime continues to be the low-cost high-performance workhorse driving innovations for these applications. In this paper, we trace the developments in the modeling of noise in MOS transistors as the device channel lengths shrink by a factor or a thousand from tens of micrometers to tens of nanometers. The impact of scaling on classical noise mechanisms is explained. Also, generation of new noise sources as a result of scaling are also described. This leads to a better physical understanding of the noise behavior of these devices. Methods of eliminating some of these noise sources by suitable choice of materials and modifications in device structure are explained. Application of this understanding to the practical design and layout of low-noise high-performance circuits is illustrated. As a result, the noise performance of MOS devices has improved by almost an order of magnitude making them an ideal choice for low-noise communication electronics design. Research continues as the channel lengths shrink further.
Space-based visible sensor on midcourse space experiment (MSX) satellite

Lincoln Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology has built and tested the space-based visible (SBV) sensor to be flown on the Ballistic Missile Defense Office's Midcourse Space Experiment spacecraft. SBV, one of a group of sensors on the spacecraft, is designed to perform above-the-horizon surveillance experiments and acquire visible/VNIR band data (450 to 950 nm) on targets and backgrounds. This paper describes the flight configuration of SBV and some calibration results.
Improved Bremsstrahlung Cross Sections for Transport Calculations

The cross section for the emission of bremsstrahlung by electrons in the field of the atomic nucleus has been evaluated by the synthesis of various theoretical results. The synthesis has been carried out for the cross section differential in emitted photon energy, and is based on (a) results of exact phase-shift calculations by Pratt, Tseng, and collaborators; (b) analytical results derived by Davies, Bethe, Maximon and Olsen in the high-energy approximation; (c) the Coulomb correction factor of Elwert; and (d) the results for the high-frequency limit of Jabbur and Pratt. Cross sections are presented here for the bremsstrahlung produced in aluminum and gold by electrons with energies from 1 keV to 1000 MeV.
Intracellular gate opening in Shaker K + channels defined by high-affinity metal bridges

Voltage-gated potassium channels such as Shaker help to control electrical signalling in neurons by regulating the passage of K+ across cell membranes. Ion flow is controlled by a voltage-dependent gate at the intracellular side of the pore, formed by the crossing of four α-helices—the inner-pore helices. The prevailing model of gating is based on a comparison of the crystal structures of two bacterial channels—KcsA in a closed state and MthK in an open state—and proposes a hinge motion at a conserved glycine that splays the inner-pore helices wide open1. We show here that two types of intersubunit metal bridge, involving cysteines placed near the bundle crossing, can occur simultaneously in the open state. These bridges provide constraints on the open Shaker channel structure, and on the degree of movement upon opening. We conclude that, unlike predictions from the structure of MthK, the inner-pore helices of Shaker probably maintain the KcsA-like bundle-crossing motif in the open state, with a bend in this region at the conserved proline motif (Pro-X-Pro) not found in the bacterial channels. A narrower opening of the bundle crossing in Shaker K+ channels may help to explain why Shaker has an approximately tenfold lower conductance than its bacterial relatives.
Fournier's gangrene: A general surgery problem

Fournier's gangrene is a specific form of synergistic gangrene involving the scrotum and perineum. The disease may follow a variety of clinical conditions or occur without an apparent precipitating cause. It is associated with severe systemic toxicity and a significant mortality rate, and it demands prompt recognition and urgent, aggressive surgical intervention. Its treatment calls on the full armamentarium of the general surgeon. Preoperative resuscitation is often required. Operative debridement can be extensive, involving the buttocks and on occasion the upper thighs and abdominal wall. Postoperative management consists of wound care with eventual grafting or flap rotations. Colostomy may be required. Three cases illustrating the salient features of this disease are presented, together with a review of the literature.
Fabrication and properties of monolithic laser diode arrays

Monolithic arrays of planar diffused GaAs injection lasers have been fabricated using diffusion masking and photolithography to delineate the junction area. After contact metallization, the arrays are soldered to a sapphire wafer which serves as a heat sink and carries the contacts for each junction. The diodes operate cw at 78 K and the threshold current density, Jth = 700 to 1100 A cm-2. The dc power output is linear at least to 5 × Jth and the power efficiency, ηP is about 40%. Threshold and power output are quite uniform across the array but the beam polarization varies at random from one unit to the next.
Prasugrel: A New Thienopyridine Inhibitor

The objective of this review is to report the pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic properties of prasugrel, the potential advantages and disadvantages over the other agent in its class, clopidogrel, and the clinical data establishing its efficacy in the management of patients with acute coronary syndromes receiving stent implantation. A MEDLINE (1966 to May 2008) search using the key word prasugrel was performed to identify pertinent literature. Additional references were selected from the bibliographies of the articles cited. Searches were not limited by time or human subject. Preclinical studies evaluating the pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic properties of prasugrel in humans were selected for review. Clinical trials assessing the efficacy of prasugrel for the treatment of patients with acute coronary syndromes receiving percutaneous coronary intervention were included as long as they were randomized, blinded, and controlled. The authors concluded that prasugrel is a thienopyridine antiplatelet agent with...
Black carbon emissions in gasoline vehicle exhaust: A measurement and instrument comparison

A pilot study was conducted to evaluate the performance and agreement of several commercially available black carbon (BC) measurement instruments, when applied to the quantification of BC in light-duty vehicle (LDV) exhaust. Samples from six vehicles, three fuels, and three driving cycles were used. The pilot study included determinations of the method detection limit (MDL) and repeatability. With respect to the MDL, the real-time instruments outperformed the time-integrated instruments, with MDL = 0.12 mg/mi for the AE51 Aethalometer, and 0.15 mg/mi for the Micro Soot Sensor (MSS), versus 0.38 mg/mi for the IMPROVE_A thermal/optical method, and 0.35 mg/mi for the OT21_T Optical Transmissometer. The real-time instruments had repeatability values ranging from 30% to 35%, which are somewhat better than those of the time-integrated instruments (40–41%). These results suggest that, despite being less resource intensive, real-time methods can be equivalent or superior to time-integrated methods in terms of sen...
Genetic and Biochemical Analysis of High Iron Toxicity in Yeast IRON TOXICITY IS DUE TO THE ACCUMULATION OF CYTOSOLIC IRON AND OCCURS UNDER BOTH AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC CONDITIONS

Iron storage in yeast requires the activity of the vacuolar iron transporter Ccc1. Yeast with an intact CCC1 are resistant to iron toxicity, but deletion of CCC1 renders yeast susceptible to iron toxicity. We used genetic and biochemical analysis to identify suppressors of high iron toxicity in Δccc1 cells to probe the mechanism of high iron toxicity. All genes identified as suppressors of high iron toxicity in aerobically grown Δccc1 cells encode organelle iron transporters including mitochondrial iron transporters MRS3, MRS4, and RIM2. Overexpression of MRS3 suppressed high iron toxicity by decreasing cytosolic iron through mitochondrial iron accumulation. Under anaerobic conditions, Δccc1 cells were still sensitive to high iron toxicity, but overexpression of MRS3 did not suppress iron toxicity and did not result in mitochondrial iron accumulation. We conclude that Mrs3/Mrs4 can sequester iron within mitochondria under aerobic conditions but not anaerobic conditions. We show that iron toxicity in Δccc1 cells occurred under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Microarray analysis showed no evidence of oxidative damage under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that iron toxicity may not be solely due to oxidative damage. Deletion of TSA1, which encodes a peroxiredoxin, exacerbated iron toxicity in Δccc1 cells under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, suggesting a unique role for Tsa1 in iron toxicity.
NK cell receptor gene of the KIR family with two IG domains but highest homology to KIR receptors with three IG domains.

The killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIRs) are surface glycoproteins expressed by natural killer (NK) cells and some T cells. They recognize polymorphic human HLA class I molecules. Two families of KIRs have been identified and named p58 and p70. The p58 family of genes encode type I membrane proteins with two extracellular immunoglobulin (Ig) domains, while the p70 genes have three Ig domains. We here report the cloning and characterization of a novel KIR cDNA obtained from tumor cell lines with NK reactivity (YT and NK-92). This gene is also expressed in the normal cell line NK 3.3 and in NK cells obtained from some but not all normal donors. The clone, KIR103AS, has an open reading frame consistent with a KIR with two extracellular Ig domains, a transmembrane region and a 114 amino acid long cytoplasmic domain containing a single src homology 2 (SH2) binding motif. The membrane distal Ig domain of KIR 103AS has highest homology with the first Ig domain of p70 KIRs and differs significantly from the first Ig domain of p58 KIRs. The second, membrane proximal Ig domain of KIR103AS has similar and high homology with the membrane proximal Ig domains of both p70 and p58 KIRs. The extracellular domains of KIR 103AS therefore share characteristic features with both p70 and p58 genes: the domain structure is identical to p58 KIRs but the sequence homology matches closely with p70 KIRs. The putative transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains are distinctly different from all previously reported KIR cDNAs.
Review: several factors are associated with the performance of D-dimer assays for detecting deep venous thrombosis

Source Citation Heim SW, Schectman JM, Siadaty MS, Philbrick JT. D-dimer testing for deep venous thrombosis: a metaanalysis. Clin Chem. 2004;50:1136-47. 15142977
A formula giving the known relative invariants for homogeneous linear differential equations

Each of the known relative invariants has been found by selecting a suitable combination of particular semi-invariants of the first kind in order to obtain an expression that is both a semi-invariant of the first kind and a semi-invariant of the second kind. Because this procedure has been severely limited by computational difficulties, we have used results from [Z] to establish Theorem 2.3 and thereby significantly improve the situation. Our new procedure enables us to verify that: for any integers m, s satkfying 3 <s < 10 and s < m, the polynomial I,,,, in (1.23) is a relative invariant of weight s for homogeneous linear differential equations of order m. We have established that (1.23) yields all of the basic relative invariants previously known and it yields new relative invariants for s= 8 dnz, s=9 dm, and s= 1Odm. The relationship of (1.23) to an important direction for new research is described in Section 6. Throughout, we suppose that the coefficients c,(z), . . . . c,(z) for the manic m th order homogeneous linear differential equation
Anterior cruciate ligament fibroblast response to changes in polymer nanofiber scaffold composition

Ruptures and tears of soft tissues are among the most commonly reported injuries in the United States. Upwards of 100,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are performed each year[1], with repair procedures involving grafting, implantation, or suturing of partially torn tissue[2]. Our long term goal is to develop a functional scaffold system that will guide ligament tissue formation while also possessing both biomimetic structural and mechanical properties. Specifically, scaffold mechanical properties must adequately match those of the bulk tissue, while also providing an environment that promotes matrix deposition and withstands physiological loading of the tissue construct. Polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds have been suggested as a means of enabling functional ACL repair{ref}. In particular, scaffolds fabricated from polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) and poly-e-caprolactone (PCL) have been evaluated for a variety of orthopaedic applications [3]. Although the biocompatibility of these polymers has been previously evaluated, it is currently unknown how the composition-dependent mechanical properties of these scaffolds (Table 1) affect cellular response. Therefore, in order to optimize this system (which system?? optimal scaffold for ACL?), the objective of this study was to evaluate the biosynthesis, proliferation, and gene expression of ACL fibroblasts when cultured on both PLGA and PCL nanofibers. It was hypothesized that the nanofiber matrix will support ligament fibroblast growth and differentiation, while substrate composition and mechanical properties will affect cellular response.
Dirty dealing: hepatic vagal afferents reshuffle fat distribution.

To evaluate the role of hepatic peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ 2 in the control of energy balance, Uno and colleagues examined the metabolic effects of overexpression of PPAR γ 2 selectively in mouse and rat liver. Mice demonstrated a surprising degree of hepatic steatosis accompanied by significant reductions in peripheral adiposity. This crosstalk between liver and adipose tissue appears to be mediated by both the sensory component of the hepatic vagus nerve and sympathetic efferents. These data suggest a novel hepatic-adipose neuraxis that regulates the distribution of stored fat.
Evaluation of a revised U.S. Food and Drug Administration method for the detection of Cronobacter in powdered infant formula: a collaborative study.

A revised U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) method for the isolation and detection of Cronobacter from powdered infant formula was recently developed, which combines real-time PCR, chromogenic agars, and RAPID ID 32E biochemical tests. This method provides an expedient analysis within 24 to 48 h. A collaborative validation study involving four different laboratories was conducted to compare the revised FDA method with the reference FDA method using casein- and soy-based powdered infant formula inoculated with different Cronobacter strains. Valid results from 216 test portions and controls from collaborating laboratories were obtained and showed that the revised FDA method performed significantly better than the reference FDA method. Newly revised PCR protocols and VITEK 2 were also evaluated to be integrated into the complete detection procedure.
Gene expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors and effect of heparin on their expression in mice with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension

The balance between cell proliferation and cell quiescence is regulated delicately by a variety of mediators, in which cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) and CDK inhibitors (CDKI) play a very important role. Heparin which inhibits pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation increases the levels of two CDKIs, p21 and p27, although only p27 is important in inhibition of PASMC growth in vitro and in vivo. In the present study we investigated the expression profile of all the cell cycle regulating genes, including all seven CDKIs (p21, p27, p57, p15, p16, p18, and p19), in the lungs of mice with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. A cell cycle pathway specific gene microarray was used to profile the 96 genes involved in cell cycle regulation. We also observed the effect of heparin on gene expression. We found that (a) hypoxic exposure for two weeks significantly inhibited p27 expression and stimulated p18 activity, showing a 98% decrease in p27 and 81% increase in p18; (b) other CDKIs, p21, p57, p15, p16, and p19 were not affected significantly in response to hypoxia; (c) heparin treatment restored p27 expression, but did not influence p18; (d) ERK1/2 and p38 were mediators in heparin upregulation of p27. This study provides an expression profile of cell cycle regulating genes under hypoxia in mice with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension and strengthens the previous finding that p27 is the only CDKI involved in heparin regulation of PASMC proliferation and hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension.
Associations Between Vrs1 Alleles and Grain Quality Traits in Spring Barley Hordeum vulgare L

ABSTRACT Barley head row type is a major trait affecting end-use quality. Six-rowed forms emerged due to mutations in the Vrs1 gene in two-rowed barleys. Whether barley is two (Vrs1) or six rowed (vrs1) directly affects a wide range of morphological traits related to seed yield and grain quality. Vrs1 has been cloned and encodes a homeodomain transcription factor with a linked leucine zipper motif. To test the association between Vrs1 alleles and grain quality, we characterized the Vrs1 alleles among a well-described collection of 81 spring barley accessions selected for divergence in head type and dry matter digestibility (DMD). The results indicated that the majority of two-rowed barleys have the Vrs1.b3-1 allele and the majority of six-rowed barleys carry the vrs1.a1-8 allele. In comparison with two-rowed barleys, six-rowed barleys were more variable in grain hardness. This divergence in hardness values was associated with specific vrs1 alleles, with barley accessions carrying the less severe amino aci...
Bite Wound Infections

Animal bites are a frequent reason for visits to the emergency department. Bite injuries are particularly important in pediatrics as more than half of victims are children. Although most bite wounds heal uneventfully, infectious complications are common. Emergency physicians should be familiar with the approach to the assessment and management of bite wounds and the treatment of infections that may occur. This article will review the epidemiology, management, and prevention of animal bite infections, including those from humans, dogs, cats, and other vertebrates.
Flight Safety Issues of an All-Electric Aircraft

Flight safety issues of an all-electric aircraft include flight control system reliability, protection from electromagnetic interference and lightning, and protection from design errors (primarily in software) and handling qualities when failures occur if the all-electric aircraft does not have traditional aerodynamic stability. Some of these questions already have partial answers, but others remain open. The Federal Aviation Administration expects that discussions with experts in the aviation industry, the military services, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and foreign regulatory authorities for civil aircraft will be necessary to resolve these issues.
Distance metric-based forest cover change detection using MODIS time series

Abstract More than 12 years of global observations are now available from NASA's Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). As this time series grows, the MODIS archive provides new opportunities for identification and characterization of land cover at regional to global spatial scales and interannual to decadal temporal scales. In particular, the high temporal frequency of MODIS provides a rich basis for monitoring land cover dynamics. At the same time, the relatively coarse spatial resolution of MODIS (250–500 m) presents significant challenges for land cover change studies. In this paper, we present a distance metric-based change detection method for identifying changed pixels at annual time steps using 500 m MODIS time series data. The approach we describe uses distance metrics to measure (1) the similarity between a pixel's annual time series to annual time series for pixels of the same land cover class and (2) the similarity between annual time series from different years at the same pixel. Pre-processing, including gap-filling, smoothing and temporal subsetting of MODIS 500 m Nadir BRDF-adjusted Reflectance (NBAR) time series is essential to the success of our method. We evaluated our approach using three case studies. We first explored the ability of our method to detect change in temperate and boreal forest training sites in North America and Eurasia. We applied our method to map regional forest change in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, and in tropical forests of the Xingu River Basin in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Results from these case studies show that the method successfully identified pixels affected by logging and fire disturbance in temperate and boreal forest sites. Change detection results in the Pacific Northwest compared well with a Landsat-based disturbance map, yielding a producer's accuracy of 85%. Assessment of change detection results for the Xingu River Basin demonstrated that detection accuracy improves as the fraction of deforestation within a MODIS pixel increases, but that relatively small changes in forest cover were still detectable from MODIS. Annually, over 80% of pixels with >20% deforested area were correctly identified and the timing of change showed good agreement with reference data. Errors of commission were largely associated with pixels located at the edges of disturbance events and inadequate characterization of land cover changes unrelated to deforestation in the reference data. Although our case studies focused on forests, this method is not specific to detection of forest cover change and has the potential to be applied to other types of land cover change including urban and agricultural expansion and intensification.
Selected ion monitoring assay for biogenic amine metabolites and probenecid in human lumbar cerebrospinal fluid

Abstract Details are presented of an improved selected ion monitoring assay for the major biogenic amine metabolites and probenecid in human lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The metabolites and probenecid are simultaneously extracted with ethyl acetate from an acidified aqueous phase, and are simultaneously converted to pentafluoropropionyl esters by reaction with pentafluoropropionic anhydride and pentafluoropropanol. The esters of the metabolites are analyzed following a single injection of the derivatized sample onto the gas chromatographic column, while the ester of probenecid is analyzed following a separate injection onto the gas chromatographic column. Quantitation is achieved using for internal standards deuterated analogues of the metabolites and a chemical analogue of probenecid. Data are presented on the concentration of free and conjugated forms of the metabolites in lumbar CSF taken from healthy volunteers.
Rapid-scan Fourier Transform Infrared Studies Of High-Rate Pyrolysis Of Hydroxylammonium Nitrate (HAN) and HAN-d4

The IR spectral assignments for HAN and HAN-d4 were reexamined and found to be more con-sistent with earlier rather than more recent interpretations. High-rate thermolysis of HAN at elevated pressure reveals an oscillating reaction in the initial stage.
Evidence for a neurotensin receptor in rat serosal mast cells

Objective and Design: The ability of neurotensin (NT) at nmolar levels to stimulate exocytosis of the mast cell suggested that it could play a role in neuro-immune-endocrine interactions. The inhibition by a specific receptor antagonist of NT’s mast cell stimulation suggested the presence of a specific mast cell NT receptor. We have here employed several probes to determine if a specific neurotensin receptor was present on rat serosal mast cells.¶Material: Serosal mast cells were isolated from the peritoneal and pleural cavities of male Sprague-Dawley rats.¶Methods: Immunocytochemistry with an antibody raised against the C-terminal peptide of the neurotensin receptor was utilized. The same antibody was employed in immunoblotting following SDS gel electrophoresis of mast cell extracts. An RNA probe for ribonuclease protection assays (RPA) was prepared using the rat brain neurotensin receptor cDNA and polymerase chain reaction was carried out using primers based on the rat brain neurotensin receptor sequence.¶Results: Mast cells showed specific staining with the anti-neurotensin receptor antibody and this same antibody revealed a protein on SDS gels migrating as a 70 kDa species. Ribonuclease protection assays revealed the predicted protected fragment at approximately 450 bp while PCR amplification gave a major product at 843 bp.¶Conclusions: These results indicate that a specific neurotensin receptor is present on the rat mast cell.