A study of the continuum flux and the line structure in the IUE spectrum of Beta Lyrae

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aydin, C.; Engin, S.; Brandi, E.; Ferrer, O. E.; Hack, M.

1988-01-01

A study of the available archival IUE images of Beta Lyrae has led to the following results: (1) for lambda in the range of 1250 - 1500 A, the eclipse depth at second conjunction is slightly larger than the eclipse depth at primary conjunction; they are equal at about 1670 A; (2) the profiles of the resonance lines of SiIV (and the same seems to be true for NV and CIV) can be described as composite, formed by the superposition of a stationary P Cygni profile that suggests a velocity of approach of -170 km/s and a broad, less strong, emission that seems to yield a velocity distribution in antiphase with the velocity curve of the B8 II component of the system; and (3) the emission lines of the intercombination doublet of semiforbidden N II at about 2140 A suggest a velocity of about -130 km/s. The interpretation of the latter composite profile appears similar to the one suggested by Sahade (1966) to describe H-alpha and He I 5876 and He I 6678, and by Batten and Sahade (1973) to describe H-alpha.

In vitro fermentation of oat flours from typical and high beta-glucan oat lines.

PubMed

Kim, Hyun Jung; White, Pamela J

2009-08-26

Two publicly available oat (Avena sativa) lines, "Jim" and "Paul" (5.17 and 5.31% beta-glucan, respectively), and one experimental oat line "N979" (7.70% beta-glucan), were used to study the effect of beta-glucan levels in oat flours during simulated in vitro digestion and fermentation with human fecal flora obtained from different individuals. The oat flours were digested by using human digestion enzymes and fermented by batch fermentation under anaerobic conditions for 24 h. The fermentation progress was monitored by measuring pH, total gas, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. Significant effects of beta-glucan on the formation of gas and total SCFA were observed compared to the blank without substrate (P < 0.05); however, there were no differences in pH changes, total gas, and total SCFA production among oat lines (P > 0.05). Acetate, propionate, and butyrate were the main SCFA produced from digested oat flours during fermentation. More propionate and less acetate were produced from digested oat flours compared to lactulose. Different human fecal floras obtained from three healthy individuals had similar patterns in the change of pH and the production of gas during fermentation. Total SCFA after 24 h of fermentation were not different, but the formation rates of total SCFA differed between individuals. In vitro fermentation of digested oat flours with beta-glucan could provide favorable environmental conditions for the colon and these findings, thus, will help in developing oat-based food products with desirable health benefits.

X-RAY EMISSION LINE PROFILES FROM WIND CLUMP BOW SHOCKS IN MASSIVE STARS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ignace, R.; Waldron, W. L.; Cassinelli, J. P.

2012-05-01

The consequences of structured flows continue to be a pressing topic in relating spectral data to physical processes occurring in massive star winds. In a preceding paper, our group reported on hydrodynamic simulations of hypersonic flow past a rigid spherical clump to explore the structure of bow shocks that can form around wind clumps. Here we report on profiles of emission lines that arise from such bow shock morphologies. To compute emission line profiles, we adopt a two-component flow structure of wind and clumps using two 'beta' velocity laws. While individual bow shocks tend to generate double-horned emission line profiles,more » a group of bow shocks can lead to line profiles with a range of shapes with blueshifted peak emission that depends on the degree of X-ray photoabsorption by the interclump wind medium, the number of clump structures in the flow, and the radial distribution of the clumps. Using the two beta law prescription, the theoretical emission measure and temperature distribution throughout the wind can be derived. The emission measure tends to be power law, and the temperature distribution is broad in terms of wind velocity. Although restricted to the case of adiabatic cooling, our models highlight the influence of bow shock effects for hot plasma temperature and emission measure distributions in stellar winds and their impact on X-ray line profile shapes. Previous models have focused on geometrical considerations of the clumps and their distribution in the wind. Our results represent the first time that the temperature distribution of wind clump structures are explicitly and self-consistently accounted for in modeling X-ray line profile shapes for massive stars.« less

The implementation of non-Voigt line profiles in the HITRAN database: H2 case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wcisło, P.; Gordon, I. E.; Tran, H.; Tan, Y.; Hu, S.-M.; Campargue, A.; Kassi, S.; Romanini, D.; Hill, C.; Kochanov, R. V.; Rothman, L. S.

2016-07-01

Experimental capabilities of molecular spectroscopy and its applications nowadays require a sub-percent or even sub-per mille accuracy of the representation of the shapes of molecular transitions. This implies the necessity of using more advanced line-shape models which are characterized by many more parameters than a simple Voigt profile. It is a great challenge for modern molecular spectral databases to store and maintain the extended set of line-shape parameters as well as their temperature dependences. It is even more challenging to reliably retrieve these parameters from experimental spectra over a large range of pressures and temperatures. In this paper we address this problem starting from the case of the H2 molecule for which the non-Voigt line-shape effects are exceptionally pronounced. For this purpose we reanalyzed the experimental data reported in the literature. In particular, we performed detailed line-shape analysis of high-quality spectra obtained with cavity-enhanced techniques. We also report the first high-quality cavity-enhanced measurement of the H2 fundamental vibrational mode. We develop a correction to the Hartmann-Tran profile (HTP) which adjusts the HTP to the particular model of the velocity-changing collisions. This allows the measured spectra to be better represented over a wide range of pressures. The problem of storing the HTP parameters in the HITRAN database together with their temperature dependences is also discussed.

Observations of H-beta and He II lambda 4686 lines in the spectra of flares of UV Cet-type stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chugainov, P. F.; Petrov, P. P.; Scherbakov, A. G.

The main results of 45.4 hours of continuous spectroscopic and photoelectric B-band observations of AD Leo, DT Virgo, and YZ CMi are discussed. In two AD Leo flares and two YZ CMi flares, an increase of the central intensity of H-beta was observed 10-20 min before the maximum B-band brightness. The spectra of one AD Leo flare and one YZ CMi flare definitely indicate the formation of broad wings of H-beta occurring mainly during flare maximum. These flares surpass the other four in total optical energy. The Stark effect seems to be the most appropriate explanation for the origin of the wings. The upper limit of the equivalent widths of the He II wavelength 4686 line was higher than that in the quiet state. The equivalent width values cannot be explained by the cascade recombination mechanism if the ratio of optical and X-ray luminosities is nearly the same for all flares of UV Cet-type stars.

FFT Deconvultion of Be Star Hα Line Profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, S. J.

2005-12-01

We have been monitoring the spectroscopic variability of Be stars using the UCA Fiber Fed Spectrograph. The spectra are 0.8 Angstrom/pixel resolution of the Hα line. The observed line profiles are a convolution of the actual profile and the instrumental profile. A Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method has been used to deconvolve the observed profiles, given the instrument profile obtained by observing the narrow lines from the HgNe wavelength calibration lamp. The long-term monitoring of the spectroscopic variability of Be stars is crucial for testing the various Be star models. Deconvolved H-α line profiles, velocities, and variability are shown for gamma Cas, delta Sco, chi Oph, eta PsA, 48 Lib, and upsilon Sgr (HD181615). Funding has been provided by the UCA University Research Council and the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium.

Hydrogen Balmer alpha intensity distributions and line profiles from multiple scattering theory using realistic geocoronal models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, D. E., Jr.; Meier, R. R.; Hodges, R. R., Jr.; Tinsley, B. A.

1987-01-01

The H Balmer alpha nightglow is investigated by using Monte Carlo models of asymmetric geocoronal atomic hydrogen distributions as input to a radiative transfer model of solar Lyman-beta radiation in the thermosphere and atmosphere. It is shown that it is essential to include multiple scattering of Lyman-beta radiation in the interpretation of Balmer alpha airglow data. Observations of diurnal variation in the Balmer alpha airglow showing slightly greater intensities in the morning relative to evening are consistent with theory. No evidence is found for anything other than a single sinusoidal diurnal variation of exobase density. Dramatic changes in effective temperature derived from the observed Balmer alpha line profiles are expected on the basis of changing illumination conditions in the thermosphere and exosphere as different regions of the sky are scanned.

Balmer line profiles for infalling T Tauri envelopes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calvet, Nuria; Hartmann, Lee

1992-01-01

The possibility that the Balmer emission lines of T Tauri stars arise in infalling envelopes rather than winds is considered. Line profiles for the upper Balmer lines are presented for models with cone geometry, intended to simulate the basic features of magnetospheric accretion from a circumstellar disk. An escape probability treatment is used to determine line source functions in nonspherically symmetric geometry. Thermalization effects are found to produce nearly symmetric H-alpha line profiles at the same time the higher Balmer series lines exhibit inverse P Cygni profiles. The infall models produce centrally peaked emission line wings, in good agreement with observations of many T Tauri stars. It is suggested that the Balmer emission of many T Tauri stars may be produced in an infalling envelope, with blue shifted absorption contributed by an overlying wind. Some of the observed narrow absorption components with small blueshifts may also arise in the accretion column.

The Mg II h and k lines. II - Comparison with synthesized profiles and Ca II K. [solar spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ayres, T. R.; Linsky, J. L.

1976-01-01

Measured high-dispersion center and limb profiles of the solar Mg II h and k resonance lines are compared with synthetic spectra computed with a partial-redistribution formalism and based on several upper-photosphere and lower-chromosphere temperature distributions. Profiles of the analogously formed Ca II K resonance line are also synthesized for the same atmospheric models. The spectrum-synthesis approach is outlined, and the collisional and fixed radiative rates appropriate to the adopted model atoms and solar atmosphere are discussed. It is found that the HSRA and VAL models predict systematically lower intensities in the h, k, and K inner wings than observed and that models with a somewhat higher minimum temperature (about 4450 K) can reproduce the measured inner wings and limb darkening. A 'Ca II' solar model with a minimum temperature of 4450 K is proposed as an alternative to the class of models based on continuum observations.

Discovery of olodaterol, a novel inhaled beta2-adrenoceptor agonist with a 24 h bronchodilatory efficacy.

PubMed

Bouyssou, Thierry; Hoenke, Christoph; Rudolf, Klaus; Lustenberger, Philipp; Pestel, Sabine; Sieger, Peter; Lotz, Ralf; Heine, Claudia; Büttner, Frank H; Schnapp, Andreas; Konetzki, Ingo

2010-02-15

Compound 4p was identified from a series of 6-hydroxy-4H-benzo[1,4]oxazin-3-ones as potent agonist of the human beta2-adrenoceptor with a high beta1/beta2-selectivity. A complete reversal of acetylcholine-induced bronchoconstriction which lasted over the whole study period of 5h was demonstrated for 4p in a guinea pig in vivo model without any signs of cardiovascular effects up to 10-fold above the first dose reaching 100% bronchoprotection. The enantiomerically pure (R)-form of 4p exerted a bronchodilatory efficacy over 24 h in dogs and guinea pigs in the absence of systemic pharmacodynamic effects. Formoterol which was tested as comparator in the same in vivo models of acetylcholine-induced bronchoconstriction did not retain efficacy after 24 h. In summary, the preclinical profile of compound (R)-4p (olodaterol, also known as BI 1744 CL) suggests a potential for once-daily dosing in man accompanied with an improved safety profile. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aggregation and lack of secretion of most newly synthesized proinsulin in non-beta-cell lines.

PubMed

Zhu, Yong Lian; Abdo, Alexander; Gesmonde, Joan F; Zawalich, Kathleen C; Zawalich, Walter; Dannies, Priscilla S

2004-08-01

Myoblasts transfected with HB10D insulin secrete more hormone than those transfected with wild-type insulin, as published previously, indicating that production of wild-type insulin is not efficient in these cells. The ability of non-beta-cells to produce insulin was examined in several cell lines. In clones of neuroendocrine GH(4)C(1) cells stably transfected with proinsulin, two thirds of (35)S-proinsulin was degraded within 3 h of synthesis, whereas (35)S-prolactin was stable. In transiently transfected neuroendocrine AtT20 cells, half of (35)S-proinsulin was degraded within 3 h after synthesis, whereas (35)S-GH was stable. In transiently transfected fibroblast COS cells, (35)S-proinsulin was stable for longer, but less than 10% was secreted 8 h after synthesis. Proinsulin formed a concentrated patch detected by immunofluorescence in transfected cells that did not colocalize with calreticulin or BiP, markers for the endoplasmic reticulum, but did colocalize with membrin, a marker for the cis-medial Golgi complex. Proinsulin formed a Lubrol-insoluble aggregate within 30 min after synthesis in non-beta-cells but not in INS-1E cells, a beta-cell line that normally produces insulin. More than 45% of (35)S-HB10D proinsulin was secreted from COS cells 3 h after synthesis, and this mutant formed less Lubrol-insoluble aggregate in the cells than did wild-type hormone. These results indicate that proinsulin production from these non-beta-cells is not efficient and that proinsulin aggregates in their secretory pathways. Factors in the environment of the secretory pathway of beta-cells may prevent aggregation of proinsulin to allow efficient production.

ASYMMETRIC ABSORPTION PROFILES OF Ly{alpha} AND Ly{beta} IN DAMPED Ly{alpha} SYSTEMS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lee, Hee-Won, E-mail: hwlee@sejong.ac.kr

2013-08-01

Damped Ly{alpha} systems observed in the quasar spectra are characterized by a high neutral hydrogen column density, N{sub HI} > 2 x 10{sup 20} cm{sup -2}. The absorption wing profiles are often fitted using the Voigt function due to the fact that the scattering cross section near the resonant line center is approximately described by the Lorentzian function. Since a hydrogen atom has infinitely many p states that participate in the electric dipole interaction, the cross section starts to deviate from the Lorentzian in an asymmetric way in the line wing regions. We investigate this asymmetry in the absorption linemore » profiles around Ly{alpha} and Ly{beta} as a function of the neutral hydrogen column density N{sub HI}. In terms of {Delta}{lambda} {identical_to} {lambda} - {lambda}{sub {alpha}}, we expand the Kramers-Heisenberg formula around Ly{alpha} to find {sigma}({lambda}) {approx_equal} (0.5f{sub 12}){sup 2}{sigma}{sub T}({Delta}{lambda}/{lambda}{sub {alpha}}){sup -2}[1 + 3.792({Delta}{lambda}/{lambda}{sub {alpha}})], where f{sub 12} and {sigma}{sub T} are the oscillator strength of Ly{alpha} and the Thomson scattering cross section, respectively. In terms of {Delta}{lambda}{sub 2} {identical_to} {lambda} - {lambda}{sub {beta}} in the vicinity of Ly{beta}, the total scattering cross section, given as the sum of cross sections for Rayleigh and Raman scattering, is shown to be {sigma}({lambda}) {approx_equal} {sigma}{sub T}(0.5f{sub 13}){sup 2}(1 + R{sub 0})({Delta}{lambda}{sub 2}/{lambda}{sub {beta}}){sup -2}[1 - 24.68({Delta}{lambda}{sub 2}/{lambda}{sub {beta}})] with f{sub 13} and the factor R{sub 0} = 0.1342 being the oscillator strength for Ly{beta} and the ratio of the Raman cross section to Rayleigh cross section, respectively. A redward asymmetry develops around Ly{alpha}, whereas a blue asymmetry is obtained for Ly{beta}. The absorption center shifts are found to be almost proportional to the neutral hydrogen column density.« less

SPECTRAL OPTICAL MONITORING OF THE NARROW-LINE SEYFERT 1 GALAXY Ark 564

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shapovalova, A. I.; Burenkov, A. N.; Popovic, L. C.

2012-09-15

We present the results of a long-term (1999-2010) spectral optical monitoring campaign of the active galactic nucleus (AGN) Ark 564, which shows a strong Fe II line emission in the optical. This AGN is a narrow-line Seyfert 1 (NLS1) galaxy, a group of AGNs with specific spectral characteristics. We analyze the light curves of the permitted H{alpha}, H{beta}, optical Fe II line fluxes, and the continuum flux in order to search for a time lag between them. Additionally, in order to estimate the contribution of iron lines from different multiplets, we fit the H{beta} and Fe II lines with amore » sum of Gaussian components. We find that during the monitoring period the spectral variation (F{sub max}/F{sub min}) of Ark 564 is between 1.5 for H{alpha} and 1.8 for the Fe II lines. The correlation between the Fe II and H{beta} flux variations is of higher significance than that of H{alpha} and H{beta} (whose correlation is almost absent). The permitted-line profiles are Lorentzian-like and do not change shape during the monitoring period. We investigate, in detail, the optical Fe II emission and find different degrees of correlation between the Fe II emission arising from different spectral multiplets and the continuum flux. The relatively weak and different degrees of correlations between permitted lines and continuum fluxes indicate a rather complex source of ionization of the broad-line emission region.« less

Application of the Hartmann-Tran profile to analysis of H2O spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lisak, D.; Cygan, A.; Bermejo, D.; Domenech, J. L.; Hodges, J. T.; Tran, H.

2015-10-01

The Hartmann-Tran profile (HTP), which has been recently recommended as a new standard in spectroscopic databases, is used to analyze spectra of several lines of H2O diluted in N2, SF6, and in pure H2O. This profile accounts for various mechanisms affecting the line-shape and can be easily computed in terms of combinations of the complex Voigt profile. A multi-spectrum fitting procedure is implemented to simultaneously analyze spectra of H2O transitions acquired at different pressures. Multi-spectrum fitting of the HTP to a theoretical model confirms that this profile provides an accurate description of H2O line-shapes in terms of residuals and accuracy of fitted parameters. This profile and its limiting cases are also fit to measured spectra for three H2O lines in different vibrational bands. The results show that it is possible to obtain accurate HTP line-shape parameters when measured spectra have a sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratio and span a broad range of collisional-to-Doppler line widths. Systematic errors in the line area and differences in retrieved line-shape parameters caused by the overly simplistic line-shape models are quantified. Also limitations of the quadratic speed-dependence model used in the HTP are demonstrated in the case of an SF6 broadened H2O line, which leads to a strongly asymmetric line-shape.

The EndoC-βH1 cell line is a valid model of human beta cells and applicable for screenings to identify novel drug target candidates.

PubMed

Tsonkova, Violeta Georgieva; Sand, Fredrik Wolfhagen; Wolf, Xenia Asbæk; Grunnet, Lars Groth; Kirstine Ringgaard, Anna; Ingvorsen, Camilla; Winkel, Louise; Kalisz, Mark; Dalgaard, Kevin; Bruun, Christine; Fels, Johannes Josef; Helgstrand, Charlotte; Hastrup, Sven; Öberg, Fredrik Kryh; Vernet, Erik; Sandrini, Michael Paolo Bastner; Shaw, Allan Christian; Jessen, Carsten; Grønborg, Mads; Hald, Jacob; Willenbrock, Hanni; Madsen, Dennis; Wernersson, Rasmus; Hansson, Lena; Jensen, Jan Nygaard; Plesner, Annette; Alanentalo, Tomas; Petersen, Maja Borup Kjær; Grapin-Botton, Anne; Honoré, Christian; Ahnfelt-Rønne, Jonas; Hecksher-Sørensen, Jacob; Ravassard, Philippe; Madsen, Ole D; Rescan, Claude; Frogne, Thomas

2018-02-01

To characterize the EndoC-βH1 cell line as a model for human beta cells and evaluate its beta cell functionality, focusing on insulin secretion, proliferation, apoptosis and ER stress, with the objective to assess its potential as a screening platform for identification of novel anti-diabetic drug candidates. EndoC-βH1 was transplanted into mice for validation of in vivo functionality. Insulin secretion was evaluated in cells cultured as monolayer and as pseudoislets, as well as in diabetic mice. Cytokine induced apoptosis, glucolipotoxicity, and ER stress responses were assessed. Beta cell relevant mRNA and protein expression were investigated by qPCR and antibody staining. Hundreds of proteins or peptides were tested for their effect on insulin secretion and proliferation. Transplantation of EndoC-βH1 cells restored normoglycemia in streptozotocin induced diabetic mice. Both in vitro and in vivo, we observed a clear insulin response to glucose, and, in vitro, we found a significant increase in insulin secretion from EndoC-βH1 pseudoislets compared to monolayer cultures for both glucose and incretins. Apoptosis and ER stress were inducible in the cells and caspase 3/7 activity was elevated in response to cytokines, but not affected by the saturated fatty acid palmitate. By screening of various proteins and peptides, we found Bombesin (BB) receptor agonists and Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptides (PACAP) to significantly induce insulin secretion and the proteins SerpinA6, STC1, and APOH to significantly stimulate proliferation. ER stress was readily induced by Tunicamycin and resulted in a reduction of insulin mRNA. Somatostatin (SST) was found to be expressed by 1% of the cells and manipulation of the SST receptors was found to significantly affect insulin secretion. Overall, the EndoC-βH1 cells strongly resemble human islet beta cells in terms of glucose and incretin stimulated insulin secretion capabilities. The cell line has an active

A new method for the identification of non-Gaussian line profiles in elliptical galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Van Der Marel, Roeland P.; Franx, Marijn

1993-01-01

A new parameterization for the line profiles of elliptical galaxies, the Gauss-Hermite series, is proposed. This approach expands the line profile as a sum of orthogonal functions which minimizes the correlations between the errors in the parameters of the fit. This method also make use of the fact that Gaussians provide good low-order fits to observed line profiles. The method yields measurements of the line strength, mean radial velocity, and the velocity dispersion as well as two extra parameters, h3 and h4, that measure asymmetric and symmetric deviations of the line profiles from a Gaussian, respectively. The new method was used to derive profiles for three elliptical galaxies which all have asymmetric line profiles on the major axis with symmetric deviations from a Gaussian. Results confirm that elliptical galaxies have complex structures due to their complex formation history.

Be Star Hα Line Profile Variability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, S. J.; Dunlap, B.; Franklin, M.; Hoggard, T.; Hoskins, J. S.

2004-12-01

The monitoring of the spectroscopic variability of Be stars is crucial for testing Be star models. Motivated by this, a Be star monitoring project was developed for undergraduate student research involvement. We have been obtaining 0.8 Angstrom/pixel resolution Hα line profiles for several bright Be stars since 2003 June. These spectra were acquired using the UCA Fiber Fed Spectrograph used at the UCA Observatory and the Nubbin Ridge Observatory in Royal, AR. H-α line profiles, velocities, and variability are shown for Delta Sco, Chi Oph, Eta PsA, 48 Lib, and Upsilon Sgr (HD181615). Funding has been provided by the UCA University Research Council and the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium.

Rovibrational line-shape parameters for H2 in He and new H2-He potential energy surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thibault, Franck; Patkowski, Konrad; Żuchowski, Piotr S.; Jóźwiak, Hubert; Ciuryło, Roman; Wcisło, Piotr

2017-11-01

We report a new H2-He potential energy surface that, with respect to the previous one [Bakr et al.(2013)], covers much larger range of H2 stretching and exhibits more accurate asymptotic behavior for large separations between H2 and He. Close-coupling calculations performed on this improved potential energy surface allow us to provide line shape parameters for H2 between 5 and 2000 K for Raman isotropic Q lines and anisotropic Q lines (or electric quadrupole lines) and for vibrational bands from the ground up to v = 5 and rotational quantum numbers up to j = 5 . The parameters provided include the usual pressure -broadening and -shifting coefficients as well as the real and imaginary part of Dicke contribution to the Hess profile. The latter parameters can be readily implemented in other line-shape profiles like the most recent one of Hartmann and Tran.

Analytic H I-to-H2 Photodissociation Transition Profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bialy, Shmuel; Sternberg, Amiel

2016-05-01

We present a simple analytic procedure for generating atomic (H I) to molecular ({{{H}}}2) density profiles for optically thick hydrogen gas clouds illuminated by far-ultraviolet radiation fields. Our procedure is based on the analytic theory for the structure of one-dimensional H I/{{{H}}}2 photon-dominated regions, presented by Sternberg et al. Depth-dependent atomic and molecular density fractions may be computed for arbitrary gas density, far-ultraviolet field intensity, and the metallicity-dependent H2 formation rate coefficient, and dust absorption cross section in the Lyman-Werner photodissociation band. We use our procedure to generate a set of {{H}} {{I}}{-}{to}{-}{{{H}}}2 transition profiles for a wide range of conditions, from the weak- to strong-field limits, and from super-solar down to low metallicities. We show that if presented as functions of dust optical depth, the {{H}} {{I}} and {{{H}}}2 density profiles depend primarily on the Sternberg “α G parameter” (dimensionless) that determines the dust optical depth associated with the total photodissociated {{H}} {{I}} column. We derive a universal analytic formula for the {{H}} {{I}}{-}{to}{-}{{{H}}}2 transition points as a function of just α G. Our formula will be useful for interpreting emission-line observations of H I/{{{H}}}2 interfaces, for estimating star formation thresholds, and for sub-grid components in hydrodynamics simulations.

Uranus' (3-0) H2 quadrupole line profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trafton, L.

1987-01-01

Spectra of Uranus' S3(0) and S3(1) H2 quadrupole lines, obtained during the 1978-1980 apparitions, are analyzed, and are found to require the presence of a deep cloud. Modifications of the Baines and Bergstralh (1986) standard model, including an additional haze layer above the 16-km-am H2 level which contains strongly absorbing particles, are needed to fit the observations. For a Rayleigh phase function, such a haze (uniformly mixed with the gas above this level) would have an absorption optical depth of 0.16 and a single scattering particle albedo of 0.30. This modification would imply a fraction of normal H2 equal to 0.25 + or - 0.10, in agreement with the Baines and Bergstralh standard model.

Fiber Optic Picosecond Laser Pulse Transmission Line for Hydrogen Ion Beam Profile Measurement

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Yun; Huang, Chunning; Aleksandrov, Alexander V

2013-01-01

We present a fiber optic laser pulse transmission line for non-intrusive longitudinal profile measurement of the hydrogen ion (H-) beam at the front-end of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) accelerator. The 80.5 MHz, 2.5 ps, multi-killowatt optical pulses are delivered to the accelerator beam line through a large mode area polarization maintaining optical fiber to ensure a high measurement stability. The transmission efficiency, output laser beam quality, pulse jitter and pulse width broadening over a 100-ft fiber line are experimentally investigated. A successful measurement of the H- beam microbunch (~130 ps) profile is obtained. Our experiment is the first demonstrationmore » of particle beam profile diagnostics using fiber optic laser pulse transmission line.« less

Ultraviolet observations of cool stars. VI - L alpha and Mg II emission line profiles /and a search for flux variability/ in Arcturus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcclintock, W.; Moos, H. W.; Henry, R. C.; Linsky, J. L.; Barker, E. S.

1978-01-01

High-precision, high-resolution profiles of the L alpha and Mg II k chromospheric emission lines from Arcturus (alpha Boo) obtained with the Princeton Experimental Package aboard the Copernicus satellite are presented. Asymmetries seen in the profiles of these lines are probably intrinsic to the star, rather than the result of interstellar absorption. In contrast to previous observations of the Ca II K emission line, no evidence is found during a three-year period for variability in the profiles or in the total fluxes from these lines on time scales ranging from hours to months. Also presented is a flux profile of the O I 1302 line and flux upper limits for L beta, O VI 1032, Si III 1206, and O V 1218.

The TGF-beta-induced gene product, betaig-h3: its biological implications in peritoneal dialysis.

PubMed

Park, Sun-Hee; Choi, Soon-Youn; Kim, Mi-Hyung; Oh, Eun-Joo; Ryu, Hye Myung; Kim, Chan-Duck; Kim, In-San; Kim, Yong-Lim

2008-01-01

TGF-beta is involved in peritoneal changes during long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). TGF-beta induces betaig-h3 in several cell lines, and betaig-h3 may be a marker for biologically active TGF-beta. However, no study has reported induction of betaig-h3 in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) or its involvement in PD-related peritoneal membrane changes. We used cultured HPMCs to investigate the biological roles of betaig-h3 during mesothelial cell injury and repair, employing the adhesion, spreading, scratching and cell migration assays. Changes in betaig-h3 expression after high glucose exposure in vivo were also evaluated using an animal chronic PD model. In vitro, TGF-beta1 induced betaig-h3 in cultured HPMCs, and betaig-h3-mediated mesothelial cell adhesion occurred via alphavbeta3 integrin. betaig-h3 enhanced mesothelial cell adhesion and migration and, in part, wound healing during mesothelial cell injury. The animal study demonstrated that compared to the control group, betaig-h3 concentrations in the dialysate effluent increased in the dialysis group with alterations in peritoneal structure and function during PD, and betaig-h3 positively correlated with peritoneal solute transport. Immunohistochemical and immunoblotting results showed that betaig-h3 localizes in the mesothelium and submesothelial matrix of the parietal peritoneum, and in the vascular endothelium of omentum. betaig-h3 protein expression was higher in the dialysis group. In vitro, betaig-h3 induced by TGF-beta1 in HPMCs improved adhesion and migration of HPMCs during wound healing. In the chronic infusion model of PD, betaig-h3 played a role in the functional deterioration of the peritoneal membrane, which is associated with fibrosis.

Candidate Water Vapor Lines to Locate the H2O Snowline through High-dispersion Spectroscopic Observations. III. Submillimeter H2 16O and H2 18O Lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Notsu, Shota; Nomura, Hideko; Walsh, Catherine; Honda, Mitsuhiko; Hirota, Tomoya; Akiyama, Eiji; Millar, T. J.

2018-03-01

In this paper, we extend the results presented in our former papers on using ortho-{{{H}}}2{}16{{O}} line profiles to constrain the location of the H2O snowline in T Tauri and Herbig Ae disks, to include submillimeter para-{{{H}}}2{}16{{O}} and ortho- and para-{{{H}}}2{}18{{O}} lines. Since the number densities of the ortho- and para-{{{H}}}2{}18{{O}} molecules are about 560 times smaller than their 16O analogs, they trace deeper into the disk than the ortho-{{{H}}}2{}16{{O}} lines (down to z = 0, i.e., the midplane). Thus these {{{H}}}2{}18{{O}} lines are potentially better probes of the position of the H2O snowline at the disk midplane, depending on the dust optical depth. The values of the Einstein A coefficients of submillimeter candidate water lines tend to be lower (typically <10‑4 s‑1) than infrared candidate water lines. Thus in the submillimeter candidate water line cases, the local intensity from the outer optically thin region in the disk is around 104 times smaller than that in the infrared candidate water line cases. Therefore, in the submillimeter lines, especially {{{H}}}2{}18{{O}} and para-{{{H}}}2{}16{{O}} lines with relatively lower upper state energies (∼a few 100 K) can also locate the position of the H2O snowline. We also investigate the possibility of future observations with ALMA to identify the position of the water snowline. There are several candidate water lines that trace the hot water gas inside the H2O snowline in ALMA Bands 5–10.

Plasma Membrane Protein Profiling in Beta-Amyloid-Treated Microglia Cell Line.

PubMed

Correani, Virginia; Di Francesco, Laura; Mignogna, Giuseppina; Fabrizi, Cinzia; Leone, Stefano; Giorgi, Alessandra; Passeri, Alessia; Casata, Roberto; Fumagalli, Lorenzo; Maras, Bruno; Schininà, M Eugenia

2017-09-01

In the responsiveness of microglia to toxic stimuli, plasma membrane proteins play a key role. In this study we treated with a synthetic beta amyloid peptide murine microglial cells metabolically differently labelled with stable isotope amino acids (SILAC). The plasma membrane was selectively enriched by a multi-stage aqueous two-phase partition system. We were able to identify by 1D-LC-MS/MS analyses 1577 proteins, most of them are plasma membrane proteins according to the Gene Ontology annotation. An unchanged level of amyloid receptors in this data set suggests that microglia preserve their responsiveness capability to the environment even after 24-h challenge with amyloid peptides. On the other hand, 14 proteins were observed to change their plasma membrane abundance to a statistically significant extent. Among these, we proposed as reliable biomarkers of the inflammatory microglia phenotype in AD damaged tissues MAP/microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 3 (MARK3), Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3), Annexins A5 and A7 (ANXA5, ANXA7) and Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), all proteins known to be involved in the inflammation processes and in microtubule network assembly rate. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

An investigation of the rapid spectral variability of the AP stars 53 Cam, 41 Tau, and Beta CrB on the basis of the K CA II and H-delta lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuvshinov, V. M.; Plachinda, S. I.

The flux is shown to vary with the phase of the period of axial rotation. For 53 Cam and Beta CrB, this variability is smooth and is well correlated with the intensity of the mean surface magnetic field. It is pointed out that in the case of 53 Cam, an analogous dependence between the equivalent width of the K Ca II line and the phase of the period of rotation was obtained by Faraggiana (1973). It is considered significant that the correlations between the flux in the K line and the intensity of the mean surface magnetic field for 53 Cam and Beta CrB have the same sign. With 41 Tau, as with the effective magnetic field, no smooth relationship is found between the fluxes in the K Ca II and H-delta lines and the phase of the period of rotation.

The pore-lining region of shaker voltage-gated potassium channels: comparison of beta-barrel and alpha-helix bundle models.

PubMed Central

Kerr, I D; Sansom, M S

1997-01-01

Although there is a large body of site-directed mutagenesis data that identify the pore-lining sequence of the voltage-gated potassium channel, the structure of this region remains unknown. We have interpreted the available biochemical data as a set of topological and orientational restraints and employed these restraints to produce molecular models of the potassium channel pore region, H5. The H5 sequence has been modeled either as a tetramer of membrane-spanning beta-hairpins, thus producing an eight-stranded beta-barrel, or as a tetramer of incompletely membrane-spanning alpha-helical hairpins, thus producing an eight-staved alpha-helix bundle. In total, restraints-directed modeling has produced 40 different configurations of the beta-barrel model, each configuration comprising an ensemble of 20 structures, and 24 different configurations of the alpha-helix bundle model, each comprising an ensemble of 24 structures. Thus, over 1300 model structures for H5 have been generated. Configurations have been ranked on the basis of their predicted pore properties and on the extent of their agreement with the biochemical data. This ranking is employed to identify particular configurations of H5 that may be explored further as models of the pore-lining region of the voltage-gated potassium channel pore. Images FIGURE 7 FIGURE 12 PMID:9251779

X-shooter spectroscopy of young stellar objects. VI. H I line decrements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antoniucci, S.; Nisini, B.; Giannini, T.; Rigliaco, E.; Alcalá, J. M.; Natta, A.; Stelzer, B.

2017-03-01

Context. Hydrogen recombination emission lines commonly observed in accreting young stellar objects represent a powerful tracer for the gas conditions in the circumstellar structures (accretion columns, and winds or jets). Aims: Here we perform a study of the H I decrements and line profiles, from the Balmer and Paschen H I lines detected in the X-shooter spectra of a homogeneous sample of 36 T Tauri objects in Lupus, the accretion and stellar properties of which were already derived in a previous work. We aim to obtain information on the H I gas physical conditions to delineate a consistent picture of the H I emission mechanisms in pre-main sequence low-mass stars (M∗< 2 M⊙). Methods: We have empirically classified the sources based on their H I line profiles and decrements. We identified four Balmer decrement types (which we classified as 1, 2, 3, and 4) and three Paschen decrement types (A, B, and C), characterised by different shapes. We first discussed the connection between the decrement types and the source properties and then compared the observed decrements with predictions from recently published local line excitation models. Results: We identify a few groups of sources that display similar H I properties. One third of the objects show lines with narrow symmetric profiles, and present similar Balmer and Paschen decrements (straight decrements, types 2 and A). Lines in these sources are consistent with optically thin emission from gas with hydrogen densities of order 109 cm-3 and 5000 < T < 15 000 K. These objects are associated with low mass accretion rates. Type 4 (L-shaped) Balmer and type B Paschen decrements are found in conjunction with very wide line profiles and are characteristic of strong accretors, with optically thick emission from high-density gas (log nH > 11 cm-3). Type 1 (curved) Balmer decrements are observed only in three sub-luminous sources viewed edge-on, so we speculate that these are actually type 2 decrements that are reddened

Synthesis and cytotoxic analysis of some disodium 3beta,6beta-dihydroxysterol disulfates.

PubMed

Cui, Jianguo; Wang, Hui; Huang, Yanmin; Xin, Yi; Zhou, Aimin

2009-01-01

Disodium 3beta,6beta-dihydroxy-5alpha-cholestane disulfate (1) was synthesized in 4 steps with a high overall yield from cholesterol. First, cholesterol (4a) was converted to cholest-4-en-3,6-dione (5a) via oxidation with pyridinium chlorochromate (PCC) and then 5a was reduced by NaBH(4) in the presence of NiCl(2) to produce cholest-3beta,6beta-diol (6a). The reaction of 6a with the triethylamine-sulfur trioxide complex generated diammonium 3beta,6beta-dihydroxy-5alpha-cholestane disulfate (7a) and the treatment of 7a by cation exchange resin 732 (sodium form)(Na(+)) yielded the target steroid 1. Disodium 24-ethyl-3beta,6beta-dihydroxycholest-22-ene disulfate (2) and disodium 24-ethyl-3beta,6beta-dihydroxycholestane disulfate (3) were synthesized using a similar method. The cytotoxicity of these compounds against Sk-Hep-1 (human liver carcinoma cell line), H-292 (human lung carcinoma cell line), PC-3 (human prostate carcinoma cell line) and Hey-1B (human ovarian carcinoma cell line) cells was investigated. Our results indicate that presence of a cholesterol-type side chain at position 17 is necessary for their biological activity.

An Analysis of Water Line Profiles in Star Formation Regions Observed by SWAS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ashby, Matthew L. N.; Bergin, Edwin A.; Plume, Rene; Carpenter, John M.; Neufeld, David A.; Chin, Gordon; Erickson, Neal R.; Goldsmith, Paul F.; Harwit, Martin; Howe, J. E.

2000-01-01

We present spectral line profiles for the 557 GHz 1(sub 1,0) yields 1(sub 0,1) ground-state rotational transition of ortho-H2(16)O for 18 galactic star formation regions observed by SWAS. 2 Water is unambiguously detected in every source. The line profiles exhibit a wide variety of shapes, including single-peaked spectra and self-reversed profiles. We interpret these profiles using a Monte Carlo code to model the radiative transport. The observed variations in the line profiles can be explained by variations in the relative strengths of the bulk flow and small-scale turbulent motions within the clouds. Bulk flow (infall, outflow) must be present in some cloud cores, and in certain cases this bulk flow dominates the turbulent motions.

Fabry-Perot Observations of [OI]6300, Hα, H-Beta, and NH2 Emissions from Comet Hyakutake C/1996B2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scherb, F.; Roesler, F. L.; Tufte, S.; Haffner, M.

1996-05-01

During the period 16-23 March 1996, observations of Comet Hyakutake were carried out with the new WHAM facility at the University of Wisconsin Pine Bluff Observatory, near Madison. WHAM is a second-generation double-Fabry-Perot/CCD spectrometer that is more than ten times as efficient as our previous large-aperture Fabry-Perot instruments. Specifications of WHAM in the spectral mode are: a 1-degree field of view (FOV) on the sky, 10 km/sec velocity resolution, 200 km/sec range, and 20 sigma detection of a 1-Rayleigh H-alpha emission line in about 30 seconds. WHAM can also operate in a mode in which an image of an emission source over a 1-degree FOV can be obtained at a spectral resolution of about 10 km/sec. Spectra of cometary [OI]6300, H-alpha, H-beta, and NH2 emissions were obtained with the FOV centered on the comet head and also located 3/4 degree sunward of the comet head, repectively. This was the first time that cometary H-beta emission has been detected. Images of cometary [OI]6300 and NH2 emissions were obtained with the FOV centered on the comet head. The interpretation of these observations using coma gas dynamic and photochemical models yields values of the H2O production rate from both the [OI]6300 and H-alpha data. Comparison of the cometary H-alpha and H-beta intensities provides unique ground-based information on the EUV solar Lyman-beta and Lyman-gamma emission lines. These results will be presented.

Multiperiodicity in the Light Variations of the Beta Cephei Star Beta Crucis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuypers, J.; Aerts, C.; Buzasi, D.; Catanzarite, J.; Conrow, T.; Laher, R.

2002-01-01

High-resolution spectroscopic observations have led recently to the discovery that the beta Cephei star beta Crucis (Mimosa) is multiperiodic with at least three non-radial pulsation modes. Data obtained by the star tracker of the WIRE satellite have now allowed us to confirm this multiperiodicity in the light variations. A total of 5 million observations covering 17 days was analyzed and the three main periods we find in this work are in perfect agreement with the results derived from the line profile variations. The photometric amplitudes are small (3, 2.7 and 0.6 millimag for the dominant modes), but this is not surprising in view of the mode identifications derived earlier from the line profiles. Additional periods of low-amplitude modes (between 0.2-0.3 mmag) are also derived, including one suggested earlier by the radial velocity data.

Ten tandem repeats of {beta}-hCG 109-118 enhance immunogenicity and anti-tumor effects of {beta}-hCG C-terminal peptide carried by mycobacterial heat-shock protein HSP65

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang Yankai; Yan Rong; He Yi

2006-07-14

The {beta}-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin ({beta}-hCG) is secreted by many kinds of tumors and it has been used as an ideal target antigen to develop vaccines against tumors. In view of the low immunogenicity of this self-peptide,we designed a method based on isocaudamer technique to repeat tandemly the 10-residue sequence X of {beta}-hCG (109-118), then 10 tandemly repeated copies of the 10-residue sequence combined with {beta}-hCG C-terminal 37 peptides were fused to mycobacterial heat-shock protein 65 to construct a fusion protein HSP65-X10-{beta}hCGCTP37 as an immunogen. In this study, we examined the effect of the tandem repeats of this 10-residuemore » sequence in eliciting an immune by comparing the immunogenicity and anti-tumor effects of the two immunogens, HSP65-X10-{beta}hCGCTP37 and HSP65-{beta}hCGCTP37 (without the 10 tandem repeats). Immunization of mice with the fusion protein HSP65-X10-{beta}hCGCTP37 elicited much higher levels of specific anti-{beta}-hCG antibodies and more effectively inhibited the growth of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) in vivo than with HSP65-{beta}hCGCTP37, which should suggest that HSP65-X10-{beta}hCGCTP37 may be an effective protein vaccine for the treatment of {beta}-hCG-dependent tumors and multiple tandem repeats of a certain epitope are an efficient method to overcome the low immunogenicity of self-peptide antigens.« less

Double-peaked broad line emission from the LINER nucleus of NGC 1097

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Storchi-Bergmann, Thaisa; Baldwin, Jack A.; Wilson, Andrew S.

1993-01-01

We report the recent appearance of a very broad component in the H-alpha and H-beta emission lines of the weakly active nucleus of the Sersic-Pastoriza galaxy NGC 1097. The FWZI of the broad component is about 21,000 km/s, and its profile is double-peaked; the presence of a blue, featureless continuum in the nucleus is also suggested. The broad component was first observed in H-alpha in November 2, 1991, and confirmed 11 months later. The H-alpha profile and flux did not change in this time interval. Comparison with previously published spectral data indicates that the broad lines have only recently appeared. Together with the relatively high X-ray luminosity and the compact nuclear radio source, our results characterize the presence of a Seyfert 1 nucleus in a galaxy which had previously shown only LINER characteristics. Obscuring material along our line of sight to the nucleus appears to have recently cleared, permitting a direct view of the active nucleus. We discuss two possible structures for the broad line region, biconical outflow and an accretion disk, that could give rise to the observed profile.

The H,K-ATPase beta-subunit can act as a surrogate for the beta-subunit of Na,K-pumps.

PubMed

Horisberger, J D; Jaunin, P; Reuben, M A; Lasater, L S; Chow, D C; Forte, J G; Sachs, G; Rossier, B C; Geering, K

1991-10-15

Na,K-ATPase and H,K-ATPase are the only members of the P-type ATPases in which a glycosylated beta-subunit is part of the purified active enzyme. In this study, we have followed the synthesis and the posttranslational processing of the beta-subunit of H,K-ATPase (beta HK) in Xenopus oocytes injected with beta HK cRNA and have tested whether it can act as a surrogate for the beta-subunit of Na,K-ATPase (beta NaK) to support the functional expression of Na,K-pumps. In Xenopus oocytes, beta HK is processed from an Endo H-sensitive 51-kDa coreglycosylated form to an Endo H-resistant 71-kDa fully glycosylated form. Similar to beta NaK, beta HK can stabilize and increase the trypsin resistance of alpha-subunits of Na,K-ATPase (alpha NaK). Finally, expression of beta HK together with alpha NaK leads to an increased number of ouabain binding sites at the plasma membrane accompanied by an increased Rb+ uptake and Na,K-pump current. Our data suggest that beta HK, similar to beta NaK, can assemble to alpha NaK, support the structural maturation and the intracellular transport of catalytic alpha NaK, and ultimately form active alpha NaK-beta HK complexes with Na,K-pump transport properties.

Energy dependence of polarization across broad deexcitation gamma-ray line profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werntz, Carl; Lang, F. L.

1998-04-01

The energy profiles of deexcitation gamma-ray lines from recoiling inelastically scattered nuclei exhibit detailed structure. MeV-wide gamma-ray lines from the direction of the Orion nebula have been detected (H. Bloemen, et al., Astr. and Astrophys. L5, 281 (1994).) by COMPTEL whose source is postulated to be cosmic ray carbon and oxygen nuclei shock accelerated near supernova remnants colliding with ambient hydrogen and helium. Even when the heavy ion velocity distributions are isotropic, structure characteristic of the multipolarity of the gamma transition remains (A. M. Bykov et al, Astr. and Astrophys. 607, L37 (1996); B. Kozlovsky et al, Astrophys. J. 484, (1997).). In experiments in which the energy dependent structure of the deexcitation gamma-ray profiles is not resolved, the gammas display a high degree of linear polarization that rapidly changes with gamma-beam angle. We calculate the polarization, both linear and circular, as a function of gamma-ray energy across the laboratory line profiles of C12*(4.44) and O16*(6.13) inelastically excited by protons and alphas. We then investigate the polarization in the surviving structures for isotropic energetic ions colliding with ^1H and ^4He.

Lack of mixed agonist-antagonist properties of [Gln8-Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2 and [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP in the rat vas deferens neuroeffector junction: studies with naloxone, beta-funaltrexamine and ICI 174,864.

PubMed

Valenzuela, R; Li, C H; Huidobro-Toro, J P

1989-02-01

The 1-27 truncated fragment of beta h-endorphin (beta h-EP) as well as [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2 or [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP exhibited opiate agonist activity in the rat vas deferens bioassay; the potency of these peptides was 3 to 6 times less than that of beta h-EP. None of these compounds exhibited any degree of antagonism towards the inhibitory action of beta h-EP. Naloxone antagonized and reversed the inhibitory action of beta h-EP and its analogues though with varying potencies. The apparent naloxone-pA2 value for beta h-EP was 8.94; that for [Gln8-Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2 was 8.08 and that for [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP was 8.38. beta-Funaltrexamine (beta-FNA) potently antagonized the inhibitory action of beta h-EP following non-equilibrium kinetics. Tissue preincubation with 10 nM beta-FNA for 60 min followed by extensive washing caused a 10-fold increase in the beta h-EP IC50. However, 10 nM beta-FNA caused only a 1.2 increase in the IC50 of [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2 and a 4.1-fold increase in the IC50 of [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP. In contrast, preincubation of the tissue with 3 microM ICI 174,864 did not modify the potency of beta h-EP or its structural analogues. However, a 60 min pretreatment with 10 microM beta-FNA followed by the addition of 3 microM ICI 174,864 revealed a further decrease in the potency of the opiopeptins compared with tissues exposed to beta-FNA alone or ICI 174,864 alone. In conclusion, the inhibitory action of these peptides is remarkably sensitive to beta-FNA antagonism; in addition the peptides act as pure opiate agonists in marked contrast with the agonist-antagonist properties described in the CNS.

Mode identification in Beta Cephei stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aizenmen, M. L.; Lesh, J. R.

1980-01-01

The essential observational characteristics related to mode identification are summarized. Major emphasis is placed on the following: both light and velocity amplitudes; typical periods in both light and radial velocity; the light curve for Beta Cephei stars in comparison to the classical Cepheids and RR Lyrae stars; the van Hoof effect with respect to the radial velocity curves in many Beta Cephei stars; and the line profiles of many Beta Cephei stars.

Investigation of thermodynamic equilibrium in laser-induced aluminum plasma using the H{sub α} line profiles and Thomson scattering spectra

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cvejić, M., E-mail: marko.cvejic@ipb.ac.rs, E-mail: krzysztof.dzierzega@uj.edu.pl; Faculty of Physics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001; Dzierżęga, K., E-mail: marko.cvejic@ipb.ac.rs, E-mail: krzysztof.dzierzega@uj.edu.pl

2015-07-13

We have studied isothermal equilibrium in the laser-induced plasma from aluminum pellets in argon at pressure of 200 mbar by using a method which combines the standard laser Thomson scattering and analysis of the H{sub α}, Stark-broadened, line profiles. Plasma was created using 4.5 ns, 4 mJ pulses from a Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm. While electron density and temperature were determined from the electron feature of Thomson scattering spectra, the heavy particle temperature was obtained from the H{sub α} full profile applying computer simulation including ion-dynamical effects. We have found strong imbalance between these two temperatures during entire plasma evolution whichmore » indicates its non-isothermal character. At the same time, according to the McWhirter criterion, the electron density was high enough to establish plasma in local thermodynamic equilibrium.« less

Flux variability in the K CA II and H-gamma lines of the AP stars 53 Cam, 41 Tau, Beta CrB, and Alpha(2) CVn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuvshinov, V. M.; Plachinda, S. I.

The rapid variability of the relative fluxes in the nuclei of the K Ca II and H-gamma lines of four typical Ap stars, 53 Cam, 41 Tau, Beta CrB, and Alpha(2) CVn, was studied during the period December 1979 - June 1980. Observations were carried out using the scanner-magnetograph of the 2.6-m reflector of the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory. In addition to relative flux variations with the phase of the axial rotation period of the stars, fluctuations of relative fluxes with characteristic times of several minutes to several hours were detected. The upper probability limit for such fluctuations, which are mostly irregular, is estimated at 35 percent for 53 Cam (K Ca II) and 56 percent for Alpha(2) CVn (H-gamma).

Establishment and characterization of a dairy goat mammary epithelial cell line with human telomerase (hT-MECs).

PubMed

Shi, Huaiping; Shi, Hengbo; Luo, Jun; Wang, Wei; Haile, Abiel B; Xu, Huifen; Li, Jun

2014-07-01

Although research on dairy goat mammary gland have referred extensively to molecular mechanisms, research on lines of dairy goat mammary epithelial cells (MECs) are still rare. This paper sought to establish an immortal MEC line by stable transfection of human telomerase. MECs from a lactating (45 days post-parturition) Xinong Saanen dairy goat were cultured purely and subsequently transfected with a plasmid carrying the sequence of human telomerase. Immortalized MECs by human telomerase (hT-MECs) exhibited a typical cobblestone morphology and activity and expression levels of telomerase resembled that of MCF-7 cells. hT-MECs on passage 42 grew vigorously and 'S' sigmoid curves of growth were observed. Moreover, hT-MECs maintained a normal chromosome modal number of 2n=60, keratin 8 and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) were evidently expressed, and beta-casein protein was synthesized and secreted. Beta-casein expression was enhanced by prolactin (P<0.05). Lipid droplets were found in hT-MECs, and messenger RNA levels of PPARG, SREBP, FASN, ACC and SCD in hT-MECs (passage 40) were similar to MECs (passage 7). In conclusion, the obtained hT-MEC line retained a normal morphology, growth characteristics, cytogenetics and secretory characteristics as primary MECs. Hence, it can be a representative model cell line, for molecular and functional analysis, of dairy goat MECs for an extended period of time. © 2014 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

Deletion of the human beta-globin LCR 5'HS4 or 5'HS1 differentially affects beta-like globin gene expression in beta-YAC transgenic mice.

PubMed

Fedosyuk, Halyna; Peterson, Kenneth R

2007-01-01

A 213 kb human beta-globin locus yeast artificial chromosome (beta-YAC) was modified by homologous recombination to delete 2.9 kb of cross-species conserved sequence similarity encompassing the LCR 5' hypersensitive site (HS) 4 (Delta5'HS4 beta-YAC). In three transgenic mouse lines, completion of the gamma- to beta-globin switch during definitive erythropoiesis was delayed relative to wild-type beta-YAC mice. In addition, quantitative per-copy human beta-like globin mRNA levels were similar to wild-type beta-YAC transgenic lines, although beta-globin gene expression was slightly decreased in the day 12 fetal liver of Delta5'HS4 beta-YAC mice. A 0.8 kb 5'HS1 fragment was similarly deleted in the YAC. Three Delta5'HS1 beta-YAC transgenic lines were established. epsilon-globin gene expression was markedly reduced, approximately 16 fold, during primitive erythropoiesis compared to wild-type beta-YAC mice, but gamma-globin expression levels were unaffected. However, during the fetal stage of definitive erythropoiesis, gamma-globin gene expression was decreased approximately 4 fold at day 12 and approximately 5 fold at day 14. Temporal developmental expression profiles of the beta-like globin genes were unaffected by deletion of 5'HS1. Decreased expression of the epsilon- and gamma-globin genes is the first phenotype ascribed to a 5'HS1 mutation in the human beta-globin locus, suggesting that this HS does indeed have a role in LCR function beyond simply a combined synergism with the other LCR HSs.

On the determination of Te by radio erecombination lines in H II regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guzmán, F.

2017-11-01

Radio recombination alpha and beta lines originate in high-n Rydberg levels of H I and He I are used to determine temperatures and densities of H II regions and galactic abundance gradients. Calculations of the departures from local thermodynamical equilibrium are very important for the determination of intensities, opacities, and abundances. I will show how uncertainties in atomic collisions are translated to large changes in emissivities and absorption coefficients in H II regions. I will show how these predictions can be tackled using the new GTM/LMT facility.

Kinetic-Energy Distribution of D(2p) Atoms from Analysis of the D Lyman-Alpha Line Profile

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ciocca, M.; Ajello, Joseph M.; Liu, Xianming; Maki, Justin

1997-01-01

The kinetic-energy distribution of D(2p) atoms resulting from electron-impact dissociation of D2 has been measured. A high-resolution vacuum ultraviolet spectrometer was employed for the first measurement of the D Lyman-alpha (D L(alpha)) emission line profiles at 20- and 100-eV excitation energies. Analysis of the deconvoluted line profile of D L(alpha) at 100 eV reveals the existence of a narrow line central peak of 29+/-2 mA full width at half maximum and a broad pedestal wing structure about 190 mA wide. The wings of the line can be used to determine the fast atom distribution. The wings of D L(alpha) arise from dissociative excitation of a series of doubly excited states that cross the Franck-Condon region between 23 and 40 eV. The fast atom distribution at 100-eV electron impact energy spans the energy range from 1 to 10 eV with a peak value near 6 eV. Slow D(2p) atoms characterized by a distribution function with peak energy near 100 meV produce the central peak profile, which is nearly independent of the impact energy. The deconvoluted line profiles of the central peak at 20 eV for dissociative excitation of D2 and H2 are fitted with an analytical function for use in calibration of space flight instrumentation equipped with a D/H absorption cell. The kinetic-energy and line profile results are compared to similar measurements for H2. The absolute cross sections for the line center (slow atoms) and wings (fast atoms) and total emission line profile were measured from threshold to 400 eV. Analytical model coefficients are given for the energy dependence of the measured slow atom cross section.

Structure and spectra of H/sub 2/O in hydrated. beta. -alumina

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bates, J.B.; Dudney, N.J.; Brown, G.M.

1982-11-15

The structure and spectra of hydrated Li and Na ..beta..-alumina were investigated using neutron diffraction, infrared absorption, and Raman scattering. The dimensions of the hexagonal unit cell of a hydrated Li ..beta..-alumina crystal containing 1.55 H/sub 2/O molecules per unit cell are a = 5.591 A and c = 22.715 A. The oxygen atoms of the water molecules are located in the conduction plane between the mO, and the aBR sites; the protons, located above the below the plane, form bent hydrogen bonds with the O(4) oxygen ions. The HOH bond angle of water in Li ..beta..-alumina is 114/sup 0/more » and the Vertical BarO--HVertical Bar bond distance is 0.992 A. Based on polarized infrared spectra, H/sub 2/O adopts a similar structure and orientation in Na ..beta..-alumina. Spectra of absorbed H/sub 2/O, D/sub 2/O, and HDO species show that water molecules dissociate in Li ..beta..-alumina to form OH/sup -/ and H(H/sub 2/O)/sup +//sub n/ species. No evidence was found for the dissociation of water in Na ..beta..-alumina. The absorption coefficients determined for OH/sup -/ and H/sub 2/O in Li ..beta..-alumina include local field corrections. A large local field anisotropy at the protons of H/sub 2/O is responsible for the large ratio of the intensities of ..nu../sub 3/ and ..nu../sub 1/ observed for water in Li and Na ..beta..-alumina.« less

Spectral Line-Shape Model to Replace the Voigt Profile in Spectroscopic Databases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lisak, Daniel; Ngo, Ngoc Hoa; Tran, Ha; Hartmann, Jean-Michel

2014-06-01

The standard description of molecular line shapes in spectral databases and radiative transfer codes is based on the Voigt profile. It is well known that its simplified assumptions of absorber free motion and independence of collisional parameters from absorber velocity lead to systematic errors in analysis of experimental spectra, and retrieval of gas concentration. We demonstrate1,2 that the partially correlated quadratic speed-dependent hardcollision profile3. (pCqSDHCP) is a good candidate to replace the Voigt profile in the next generations of spectroscopic databases. This profile takes into account the following physical effects: the Doppler broadening, the pressure broadening and shifting of the line, the velocity-changing collisions, the speed-dependence of pressure broadening and shifting, and correlations between velocity- and phase/state-changing collisions. The speed-dependence of pressure broadening and shifting is incorporated into the pCqSDNGP in the so-called quadratic approximation. The velocity-changing collisions lead to the Dicke narrowing effect; however in many cases correlations between velocityand phase/state-changing collisions may lead to effective reduction of observed Dicke narrowing. The hard-collision model of velocity-changing collisions is also known as the Nelkin-Ghatak model or Rautian model. Applicability of the pCqSDHCP for different molecular systems was tested on calculated and experimental spectra of such molecules as H2, O2, CO2, H2O in a wide span of pressures. For all considered systems, pCqSDHCP is able to describe molecular spectra at least an order of magnitude better than the Voigt profile with all fitted parameters being linear with pressure. In the most cases pCqSDHCP can reproduce the reference spectra down to 0.2% or better, which fulfills the requirements of the most demanding remote-sensing applications. An important advantage of pCqSDHCP is that a fast algorithm for its computation was developedab4,5 and allows

Non-LTE hydrogen-line formation in moving prominences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heinzel, P.; Rompolt, B.

1986-01-01

The behavior of hydrogen-line brightness variations, depending on the prominence-velocity changes were investigated. By solving the NON-Local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) problem for hydrogen researchers determine quantitatively the effect of Doppler brightening and/or Doppler dimming (DBE, DDE) in the lines of Lyman and Balmer series. It is demonstrated that in low-density prominence plasmas, DBE in H alpha and H beta lines can reach a factor of three for velocities around 160 km/sec, while the L alpha line exhibits typical DDE. L beta brightness variations follow from a combined DBE in the H alpha and DDE in L alpha and L beta itself, providing that all relevant multilevel interlocking processes are taken into account.

A {beta}{sub 2}-microglobulin cleavage variant fibrillates at near-physiological pH

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Corlin, Dorthe B.; Johnsen, Christina K.; Nissen, Mogens H.

2009-04-03

{beta}{sub 2}-microglobulin ({beta}{sub 2}m) deposits as amyloid in dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA), predominantly in joints. The molecular mechanisms underlying the amyloidogenicity of {beta}{sub 2}m are still largely unknown. In vitro, acidic conditions, pH < 4.5, induce amyloid fibrillation of native {beta}{sub 2}m within several days. Here, we show that amyloid fibrils are generated in less than an hour when a cleavage variant of {beta}{sub 2}m-found in the circulation of many dialysis patients-is exposed to pH levels (pH 6.6) occurring in joints during inflammation. Aggregation and fibrillation, including seeding effects with intact, native {beta}{sub 2}m were studied by Thioflavin T fluorescence spectroscopy,more » turbidimetry, capillary electrophoresis, and electron microscopy. We conclude that a biologically relevant variant of {beta}{sub 2}m is amyloidogenic at slightly acidic pH. Also, only a very small amount of preformed fibrils of this variant is required to induce fibrillation of native {beta}{sub 2}m. This may explain the apparent lack of detectable amounts of the variant {beta}{sub 2}m in extracts of amyloid from DRA patients.« less

Arachidonic Acid-Induced Expression of the Organic Solute and Steroid Transporter-beta (Ost-beta) in a Cartilaginous Fish Cell Line

PubMed Central

Hwang, Jae-Ho; Parton, Angela; Czechanski, Anne; Ballatori, Nazzareno; Barnes, David

2008-01-01

The organic solute and steroid transporter (OST/Ost) is a unique membrane transport protein heterodimer composed of subunits designated alpha and beta, that transports conjugated steroids and prostaglandin E2 across the plasma membrane. Ost was first identified in the liver of the cartilaginous fish Leucoraja erinacea, the little skate, and subsequently was found in many other species, including humans and rodents. The present study describes the isolation of a new cell line, LEE-1, derived from an early embryo of L. erinacea, and characterizes the expression of Ost in these cells. The mRNA size and amino acid sequence of Ost-beta in LEE-1 was identical to that previously reported for Ost-beta from skate liver, and the primary structure was identical to that of the spiny dogfish shark (Squalus acanthias) with the exception of a single amino acid. Ost-beta was found both on the plasma membrane and intracellularly in LEE-1 cells, consistent with its localization in other cell types. Interestingly, arachidonic acid, the precursor to eiconsanoids, strongly induced Ost-beta expression in LEE-1 cells and a lipid mixture containing arachidonic acid also induced Ost-alpha. Overall, the present study describes the isolation of a novel marine cell line, and shows that this cell line expresses relatively high levels of Ost when cultured in the presence of arachidonic acid. Although the function of this transport protein in embryo-derived cells is unknown, it may play a role in the disposition of eicosanoids or steroid-derived molecules. PMID:18407792

Three-dimensional modeling of the Ca II H and K lines in the solar atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bjørgen, Johan P.; Sukhorukov, Andrii V.; Leenaarts, Jorrit; Carlsson, Mats; de la Cruz Rodríguez, Jaime; Scharmer, Göran B.; Hansteen, Viggo H.

2018-03-01

Context. CHROMIS, a new imaging spectrometer at the Swedish 1-m Solar Telescope (SST), can observe the chromosphere in the H and K lines of Ca II at high spatial and spectral resolution. Accurate modeling as well as an understanding of the formation of these lines are needed to interpret the SST/CHROMIS observations. Such modeling is computationally challenging because these lines are influenced by strong departures from local thermodynamic equilibrium, three-dimensional radiative transfer, and partially coherent resonance scattering of photons. Aim. We aim to model the Ca II H and K lines in 3D model atmospheres to understand their formation and to investigate their diagnostic potential for probing the chromosphere. Methods: We model the synthetic spectrum of Ca II using the radiative transfer code Multi3D in three different radiation-magnetohydrodynamic model atmospheres computed with the Bifrost code. We classify synthetic intensity profiles according to their shapes and study how their features are related to the physical properties in the model atmospheres. We investigate whether the synthetic data reproduce the observed spatially-averaged line shapes, center-to-limb variation and compare this data with SST/CHROMIS images. Results: The spatially-averaged synthetic line profiles show too low central emission peaks, and too small separation between the peaks. The trends of the observed center-to-limb variation of the profiles properties are reproduced by the models. The Ca II H and K line profiles provide a temperature diagnostic of the temperature minimum and the temperature at the formation height of the emission peaks. The Doppler shift of the central depression is an excellent probe of the velocity in the upper chromosphere.

Density-dependent induction of apoptosis by transforming growth factor-beta 1 in a human ovarian carcinoma cell line.

PubMed

Mathieu, C; Jozan, S; Mazars, P; Côme, M G; Moisand, A; Valette, A

1995-01-01

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 inhibited proliferation of a human ovarian carcinoma cell line (NIH-OVCAR-3). The inhibition of NIH-OVCAR-3 cell proliferation was accompanied by a decrease in clonogenic potential, evidenced by the reduced ability of TGF-beta 1-treated NIH-OVCAR-3 cells to form colonies on a plastic substratum. This rapid decrease of clonogenic potential, which was detected 6 h after addition of TGF-beta 1 was dose-dependent (IC50 = 4 pM). Fluorescence microscopy of DAPI-stained cells supported by electron-microscopic examination showed that TGF-beta 1 induced chromatin condensation and nuclear fragmentation. In addition, oligonucleosomal-sized fragments were detected in the TGF-beta 1-treated cells. These features indicated that TGF-beta 1 induced NIH-OVCAR-3 cell death by an apoptosis-like mechanism. This TGF-beta 1 apoptotic effect was subject to modulation by cell density. It was observed that an increase in cell density (up to 20 x 10(3) cells/cm2) protected NIH-OVCAR-3 cells against apoptosis induced by TGF-beta 1. Conditioned medium from high-density cultures of NIH-OVCAR-3 cells did not inhibit apoptosis induced by TGF-beta 1 on NIH-OVCAR-3 cells cultured at low density, suggesting that the protective effect of cell density was not related to the cell secretion of a soluble survival factor.

Optical spectrophotometry of Comet P/Giacobini-Zinner and emission profiles of H2O+

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strauss, M. A.; Mccarthy, P. J.; Spinrad, H.

1986-01-01

Two-dimensional CCD spectrograms were obtained of Comet P/Giacobini-Zinner (1984e) on five occasions between July and October 1985. Spatial emission profiles of H2O+ were extracted at 6198 angstroms (the strongest ionic line in the visible spectrum). This emission line traces the extent of the ion, or plasma, tail. The spectrographic slit was placed approximately along the trajectory of the ICE spacecraft on September 11, 1985; the resulting H2O+ profile has a full-width-half-maximum of about 5700 km, about three times that of the plasma density profile measured by ICE, and has a full-width-zero-intensity of about 30,000 km, very similar to the ICE values. H2O production rates for the comet are derived and compared with those of Comet P/Halley (1982i).

Synthetic peptides corresponding to human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH)-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) induce uptake of 45Ca++ by liposomes: evidence for calcium-conducting transmembrane channel formation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Grasso, P.; Santa-Coloma, T.A.; Reichert, L.E. Jr.

1991-06-01

We have previously described FSH receptor-mediated influx of 45Ca++ in cultured Sertoli cells from immature rats and receptor-enriched proteoliposomes via activation of voltage-sensitive and voltage-independent calcium channels. We have further shown that this effect of FSH does not require cholera toxin- or pertussis toxin-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding protein or activation of adenylate cyclase. In the present study, we have identified regions of human FSH-beta-subunit which appear to be involved in mediating calcium influx. We screened 11 overlapping peptide amides representing the entire primary structure of hFSH-beta-subunit for their effects on 45Ca++ flux in FSH receptor-enriched proteoliposomes. hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) inducedmore » uptake of 45Ca++ in a concentration-related manner. This effect of hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) was also observed in liposomes lacking incorporated FSH receptor. Reducing membrane fluidity by incubating liposomes (containing no receptor) with hFSH-beta-(1-15) or hFSH-beta-(51-65) at temperatures lower than the transition temperatures of their constituent phospholipids resulted in no significant (P greater than 0.05) difference in 45Ca++ uptake. The effectiveness of the calcium ionophore A23187, however, was abolished. Ruthenium red, a voltage-independent calcium channel antagonist, was able to completely block uptake of 45Ca++ induced by hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) whereas nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker specific for L-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels, was without effect. These results suggest that in addition to its effect on voltage-sensitive calcium channel activity, interaction of FSH with its receptor may induce formation of transmembrane aqueous channels which also facilitate influx of extracellular calcium.« less

Metallic line profiles of the AOV star Vega

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fletcher, J. Murray; Gulliver, Austin F.; Adelman, Saul J.; Crowley, Charles R.

1990-01-01

High dispersion ultrahigh signal to noise Reticon spectra of Vega were obtained with the coude spectrograph of the 1.2 m telescope. A mean signal to noise ratio of 2500 over the spectral region lambdas from 3825 to 5435 was achieved. Examination of the line profiles confirmed the presence of two different types of profiles which were previously seen in IIIaJ and lower signal to noise Reticon spectra. The profiles of the strong lines are essentially classical rotational profiles with enhanced wings which are slightly stronger than expected while those of weak lines are clearly flat-bottomed resulting in a trapezoidal appearance. A few possible theoretical explanations are presented.

An Explanation of Remarkable Emission-line Profiles in Post-flare Coronal Rain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacatus, Daniela A.; Judge, Philip G.; Donea, Alina

2017-06-01

We study broad redshifted emission in chromospheric and transition region lines that appears to correspond to a form of post-flare coronal rain. Profiles of Mg II, C II, and Si IV lines were obtained using IRIS before, during, and after the X2.1 flare of 2015 March 11 (SOL2015-03-11T16:22). We analyze the profiles of the five transitions of Mg II (the 3p-3s h and k transitions, and three lines belonging to the 3d-3p transitions). We use analytical methods to understand the unusual profiles, together with higher-resolution observational data of similar phenomena observed by Jing et al. The peculiar line ratios indicate anisotropic emission from the strands that have cross-strand line center optical depths (k line) of between 1 and 10. The lines are broadened by unresolved Alfvénic motions whose energy exceeds the radiation losses in the Mg II lines by an order of magnitude. The decay of the line widths is accompanied by a decay in the brightness, suggesting a causal connection. If the plasma is ≲99% ionized, ion-neutral collisions can account for the dissipation; otherwise, a dynamical process seems necessary. Our work implies that the motions are initiated during the impulsive phase, to be dissipated as radiation over a period of an hour, predominantly by strong chromospheric lines. The coronal “rain” we observe is far more turbulent than most earlier reports have indicated, with implications for plasma heating mechanisms.

Fludarabine plus alemtuzumab (FA) front-line treatment in young patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and an adverse biologic profile.

PubMed

Mauro, Francesca R; Molica, Stefano; Laurenti, Luca; Cortelezzi, Agostino; Carella, Angelo M; Zaja, Francesco; Chiarenza, Annalisa; Angrilli, Francesco; Nobile, Francesco; Marasca, Roberto; Musolino, Caterina; Brugiatelli, Maura; Piciocchi, Alfonso; Vignetti, Marco; Fazi, Paola; Gentile, Giuseppe; De Propris, Maria S; Della Starza, Irene; Marinelli, Marilisa; Chiaretti, Sabina; Del Giudice, Ilaria; Nanni, Mauro; Albano, Francesco; Cuneo, Antonio; Guarini, Anna; Foà, Robin

2014-02-01

In 45, ≤ 60 years old patients with CLL and an adverse biologic profile, a front-line treatment with Fludarabine and Campath (Alemtuzumab(®)) was given. The overall response rate was 75.5%, the complete response rate (CR) 24.4% with the lowest CR rates, 16.7% and 8.3%, in 11q and 17p deleted cases. The 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival were 42.5% and 79.9%, respectively. PFS was significantly influenced by CLL duration, beta2-microglobulin, and improved by post-remissional stem cell transplantation. Front-line fludarabine and alemtuzumab showed a manageable safety profile and evidence of a benefit in a small series of CLL patients with adverse biologic features. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Release of IL-1beta via IL-1beta-converting enzyme in a skin dendritic cell line exposed to 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene.

PubMed

Matos, Teresa J; Jaleco, Sara P; Gonçalo, Margarida; Duarte, Carlos B; Lopes, M Celeste

2005-08-14

We used a mouse fetal skin dendritic cell line (FSDC) to study the effect of the strong allergen 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) on interleukin (IL)-1beta release and IL-1beta receptor immunoreactivity. Stimulation with DNFB (30 minutes) increased IL-1 release without changing the mRNA levels of the protein. Furthermore, DNFB increased transiently the interleukin-1beta-converting enzyme (ICE) activity, as measured with its fluorogenic substrate Z-Tyr-Val-Ala-Asp-AFC. The ICE inhibitor Z-YVAD-FMK prevented the release of IL-1beta evoked by DNFB. Incubation of the cells with DNFB (30 minutes) strongly increased IL-1beta receptor immunoreactivity. The rapid effect of DNFB on the release of mature IL-1beta, without inducing an increase of IL-1beta mRNA in FSDC, suggests a posttranslational modification of pro-IL-1beta by ICE activity.

Lactose digestion by yogurt beta-galactosidase: influence of pH and microbial cell integrity.

PubMed

Martini, M C; Bollweg, G L; Levitt, M D; Savaiano, D A

1987-02-01

Lactase-deficient subjects more effectively digest lactose in yogurt than lactose in other dairy products, apparently due to yogurt microbial beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) which is active in the GI tract. We evaluated the effects of buffering capacity of yogurt, gastric pH, and microbial cell disruption on beta-gal activity and lactose digestion. Three times more acid was required to acidify yogurt than to acidify milk. Yogurt beta-gal was stable at pH 4.0 but inactivated at lower pH. When yogurt was sonicated to disrupt microbial cell structure, only 20% activity remained after incubation at pH 4.0 for 60 min. In vivo gastric pH remained greater than 2.7 for 3 h after ingestion of yogurt. Acidified milk alone or with disrupted yogurt microorganisms caused twice as much lactose malabsorption as did acidified milk containing intact yogurt microorganisms. The results provide a possible explanation for the survival of beta-gal activity from yogurt in the GI tract.

[High non-specific binding of the beta(1) -selective radioligand 2-(125)I-ICI-H].

PubMed

Riemann, B; Law, M P; Kopka, K; Wagner, St; Luthra, S; Pike, V W; Neumann, J; Kirchhefer, U; Schmitz, W; Schober, O; Schäfers, M

2003-08-01

As results of cardiac biopsies suggest, myocardial beta(1) -adrenoceptor density is reduced in patients with chronic heart failure. However, changes in cardiac beta(2)-adrenoceptors vary. With suitable radiopharmaceuticals single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) offer the opportunity to assess beta-adrenoceptors non-invasively. Among the novel racemic analogues of the established beta(1)-selective adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 89.406 the iodinated 2-I-ICI-H showed high affinity and selectivity to beta(1)-adrenoceptors in murine ventricular membranes. The aim of this study was its evaluation as a putative sub-type selective beta(1)-adrenergic radioligand in cardiac imaging. Competition studies in vitro and in vivo were used to investigate the kinetics of 2-I-ICI-H binding to cardiac beta-adrenoceptors in mice and rats. In addition, the radiosynthesis of 2-(125)I-ICI-H from the silylated precursor 2-SiMe(3)-ICI-H was established. The specific activity was 80 GBq/ micro mol, the radiochemical yield ranged from 70 to 80%. The unlabelled compound 2-I-ICI-H showed high beta(1)-selectivity and -affinity in the in vitro competition studies. In vivo biodistribution studies apparently showed low affinity to cardiac beta-adrenoceptors. The radiolabelled counterpart 2-(125)I-ICI-H showed a high degree of non-specific binding in vitro and no specific binding to cardiac beta(1)-adrenoceptors in vivo. Because of its high non-specific binding 2-(125)I-ICI-H is no suitable radiotracer for imaging in vivo.

The Ly(alpha) Line Profiles of Ultraluminous Infrared Galaxies: Fast Winds and Lyman Continuum Leakage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Crystal L.; Dijkstra, Mark; Henry, Alaina L.; Soto, Kurt T.; Danforth, Charles W.; Wong, Joseph

2015-01-01

We present new Hubble Space Telescope Cosmic Origins Spectrograph far-ultraviolet (far-UV) spectroscopy and Keck Echellete optical spectroscopy of 11 ultraluminous infrared galaxies (ULIRGs), a rare population of local galaxies experiencing massive gas inflows, extreme starbursts, and prominent outflows. We detect Ly(alpha) emission from eight ULIRGs and the companion to IRAS09583+4714. In contrast to the P Cygni profiles often seen in galaxy spectra, the Ly(alpha) profiles exhibit prominent, blueshifted emission out to Doppler shifts exceeding -1000 km/s in three H II-dominated and two AGN-dominated ULIRGs. To better understand the role of resonance scattering in shaping the Ly(alpha) line profiles, we directly compare them to non-resonant emission lines in optical spectra. We find that the line wings are already present in the intrinsic nebular spectra, and scattering merely enhances the wings relative to the line core. The Ly(alpha) attenuation (as measured in the COS aperture) ranges from that of the far-UV continuum to over 100 times more. A simple radiative transfer model suggests the Ly(alpha) photons escape through cavities which have low column densities of neutral hydrogen and become optically thin to the Lyman continuum in the most advanced mergers. We show that the properties of the highly blueshifted line wings on the Ly(alpha) and optical emission-line profiles are consistent with emission from clumps of gas condensing out of a fast, hot wind. The luminosity of the Ly(alpha) emission increases nonlinearly with the ULIRG bolometric luminosity and represents about 0.1-1% of the radiative cooling from the hot winds in the H II-dominated ULIRGs.

DNA profiling analysis of endometrial and ovarian cell lines reveals misidentification, redundancy and contamination.

PubMed

Korch, Christopher; Spillman, Monique A; Jackson, Twila A; Jacobsen, Britta M; Murphy, Susan K; Lessey, Bruce A; Jordan, V Craig; Bradford, Andrew P

2012-10-01

Cell lines derived from human ovarian and endometrial cancers, and their immortalized non-malignant counterparts, are critical tools to investigate and characterize molecular mechanisms underlying gynecologic tumorigenesis, and facilitate development of novel therapeutics. To determine the extent of misidentification, contamination and redundancy, with evident consequences for the validity of research based upon these models, we undertook a systematic analysis and cataloging of endometrial and ovarian cell lines. Profiling of cell lines by analysis of DNA microsatellite short tandem repeats (STR), p53 nucleotide polymorphisms and microsatellite instability was performed. Fifty-one ovarian cancer lines were profiled with ten found to be redundant and five (A2008, OV2008, C13, SK-OV-4 and SK-OV-6) identified as cervical cancer cells. Ten endometrial cell lines were analyzed, with RL-92, HEC-1A, HEC-1B, HEC-50, KLE, and AN3CA all exhibiting unique, uncontaminated STR profiles. Multiple variants of Ishikawa and ECC-1 endometrial cancer cell lines were genotyped and analyzed by sequencing of mutations in the p53 gene. The profile of ECC-1 cells did not match the EnCa-101 tumor, from which it was reportedly derived, and all ECC-1 isolates were genotyped as Ishikawa cells, MCF-7 breast cancer cells, or a combination thereof. Two normal, immortalized endometrial epithelial cell lines, HES cells and the hTERT-EEC line, were identified as HeLa cervical carcinoma and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, respectively. Results demonstrate significant misidentification, duplication, and loss of integrity of endometrial and ovarian cancer cell lines. Authentication by STR DNA profiling is a simple and economical method to verify and validate studies undertaken with these models. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Logo recognition in video by line profile classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

den Hollander, Richard J. M.; Hanjalic, Alan

2003-12-01

We present an extension to earlier work on recognizing logos in video stills. The logo instances considered here are rigid planar objects observed at a distance in the scene, so the possible perspective transformation can be approximated by an affine transformation. For this reason we can classify the logos by matching (invariant) line profiles. We enhance our previous method by considering multiple line profiles instead of a single profile of the logo. The positions of the lines are based on maxima in the Hough transform space of the segmented logo foreground image. Experiments are performed on MPEG1 sport video sequences to show the performance of the proposed method.

An Emission Measure Analysis of Stars Near the Transition Region Dividing Line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linsky, Jeffery L.

We request high dispersion, short wavelength IUE spectra for three of the stars beta Gem (K0III), alpha Tau (K5III), epsilon Gem (G81b) and beta Cam (G0Ib) with exposure times of 16 hours or greater. These data will allow the measurement of line profiles, widths and Doppler shifts as well as density sensitive and opacity sensitive line ratios. Models of chromospheric and transition region structure will be calculated by emission measure techniques and model atmosphere computations for optically thick resonance lines such as MgII h and k, including partial redistribution radiation transfer. The chromospheric models will be used to investigate the energy balance of the atmosphere and the nature of the energy deposition processes. These results will be considered in relation to the evolutionary status of the stars, and will be compared with the atmospheric model properties of other stars previously studied by the authors and their collaborators.

Metabolomic and proteomic analysis of a clonal insulin-producing beta-cell line (INS-1 832/13).

PubMed

Fernandez, Céline; Fransson, Ulrika; Hallgard, Elna; Spégel, Peter; Holm, Cecilia; Krogh, Morten; Wårell, Kristofer; James, Peter; Mulder, Hindrik

2008-01-01

Metabolites generated from fuel metabolism in pancreatic beta-cells control exocytosis of insulin, a process which fails in type 2 diabetes. To identify and quantify these metabolites, global and unbiased analysis of cellular metabolism is required. To this end, polar metabolites, extracted from the clonal 832/13 beta-cell line cultured at 2.8 and 16.7 mM glucose for 48 h, were derivatized followed by identification and quantification, using gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS). After culture at 16.7 mM glucose for 48 h, 832/13 beta-cells exhibited a phenotype reminiscent of glucotoxicity with decreased content and secretion of insulin. The metabolomic analysis revealed alterations in the levels of 7 metabolites derived from glycolysis, the TCA cycle and pentose phosphate shunt, and 4 amino acids. Principal component analysis of the metabolite data showed two clusters, corresponding to the cells cultured at 2.8 and 16.7 mM glucose, respectively. Concurrent changes in protein expression were analyzed by 2-D gel electrophoresis followed by LC-MS/MS. The identities of 86 spots corresponding to 75 unique proteins that were significantly different in 832/13 beta-cells cultured at 16.7 mM glucose were established. Only 5 of these were found to be metabolic enzymes that could be involved in the metabolomic alterations observed. Anticipated changes in metabolite levels in cells exposed to increased glucose were observed, while changes in enzyme levels were much less profound. This suggests that substrate availability, allosteric regulation, and/or post-translational modifications are more important determinants of metabolite levels than enzyme expression at the protein level.

The Loopy Ultraviolet Line Profiles of RU Lupi: Accretion, Outflows, and Fluorescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herczeg, Gregory J.; Walter, Frederick M.; Linsky, Jeffrey L.; Gahm, Gösta F.; Ardila, David R.; Brown, Alexander; Johns-Krull, Christopher M.; Simon, Michal; Valenti, Jeff A.

2005-06-01

We present far-ultraviolet (FUV) spectra of the classical T Tauri star RU Lup covering the 912-1710 Å spectral range, as observed by the Hubble Space Telescope STIS and the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer satellite. We use these spectra, which are rich in emission and absorption lines, to probe both the accreting and outflowing gas. Absorption in the Lyα profile constrains the extinction to AV~0.07 mag, which we confirm with other diagnostics. We estimate a mass accretion rate of (5+/-2)×10-8 Msolar yr-1 using the optical-NUV accretion continuum. The accreting gas is also detected in bright, broad lines of C IV, Si IV, and N V, which all show complex structures across the line profile. Many other emission lines, including those of H2 and Fe II, are pumped by Lyα. RU Lup's spectrum varies significantly in the FUV; our STIS observations occurred when RU Lup was brighter than several other observations in the FUV, possibly because of a high mass accretion rate.

Metallic line profiles of the AO V star Vega

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gulliver, Austin F.; Adelman, Saul J.; Cowley, Charles R.; Fletcher, J. M.

1991-01-01

High dispersion ultrahigh signal to noise Reticon spectra of Vega were obtained with the coude spectrograph of the 1.2 m telescope. A mean signal to noise ratio of 2500 over the spectral region lambdas from 3825 to 5435 was achieved. Examination of the line profiles confirmed the presence of two different types of profiles which were previously seen in IIIaJ and lower signal to noise Reticon spectra. The profiles of the strong lines are essentially classical rotational profiles with enhanced wings which are slightly stronger than expected while those of weak lines are clearly flat-bottomed resulting in a trapezoidal appearance. A few possible theoretical explanations are presented.

Origin of warm and hot gas emission from low-mass protostars: Herschel-HIFI observations of CO J = 16-15. I. Line profiles, physical conditions, and H2O abundance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kristensen, L. E.; van Dishoeck, E. F.; Mottram, J. C.; Karska, A.; Yıldız, U. A.; Bergin, E. A.; Bjerkeli, P.; Cabrit, S.; Doty, S.; Evans, N. J.; Gusdorf, A.; Harsono, D.; Herczeg, G. J.; Johnstone, D.; Jørgensen, J. K.; van Kempen, T. A.; Lee, J.-E.; Maret, S.; Tafalla, M.; Visser, R.; Wampfler, S. F.

2017-09-01

Context. Through spectrally unresolved observations of high-J CO transitions, Herschel Photodetector Array Camera and Spectrometer (PACS) has revealed large reservoirs of warm (300 K) and hot (700 K) molecular gas around low-mass protostars. The excitation and physical origin of this gas is still not understood. Aims: We aim to shed light on the excitation and origin of the CO ladder observed toward protostars, and on the water abundance in different physical components within protostellar systems using spectrally resolved Herschel-HIFI data. Methods: Observations are presented of the highly excited CO line J = 16-15 (Eup/kB = 750 K) with the Herschel Heterodyne Instrument for the Far Infrared (HIFI) toward a sample of 24 low-mass protostellar objects. The sources were selected from the Herschel "Water in Star-forming regions with Herschel" (WISH) and "Dust, Ice, and Gas in Time" (DIGIT) key programs. Results: The spectrally resolved line profiles typically show two distinct velocity components: a broad Gaussian component with an average FWHM of 20 km s-1 containing the bulk of the flux, and a narrower Gaussian component with a FWHM of 5 km s-1 that is often offset from the source velocity. Some sources show other velocity components such as extremely-high-velocity features or "bullets". All these velocity components were first detected in H2O line profiles. The average rotational temperature over the entire profile, as measured from comparison between CO J = 16-15 and 10-9 emission, is 300 K. A radiative-transfer analysis shows that the average H2O/CO column-density ratio is 0.02, suggesting a total H2O abundance of 2 × 10-6, independent of velocity. Conclusions: Two distinct velocity profiles observed in the HIFI line profiles suggest that the high-J CO ladder observed with PACS consists of two excitation components. The warm PACS component (300 K) is associated with the broad HIFI component, and the hot PACS component (700 K) is associated with the offset HIFI

What Sets the Line Profiles in Tidal Disruption Events?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roth, Nathaniel; Kasen, Daniel

2018-03-01

We investigate line formation in gas that is outflowing and optically thick to electron scattering, as may be expected following the tidal disruption of a star by a supermassive black hole. Using radiative transfer calculations, we show that the optical line profiles produced by expanding TDE outflows most likely are primarily emission features, rather than the P-Cygni profiles seen in most supernova spectra. This is a result of the high line excitation temperatures in the highly irradiated TDE gas. The outflow kinematics cause the emission peak to be blueshifted and have an asymmetric red wing. Such features have been observed in some TDE spectra, and we propose that these may be signatures of outflows. We also show that non-coherent scattering of hot electrons can broaden the emission lines by ∼10,000 km s‑1, such that the line width in some TDEs may be set by the electron scattering optical depth rather than the gas kinematics. The scattering-broadened line profiles produce distinct, wing-shaped profiles that are similar to those observed in some TDE spectra. The narrowing of the emission lines over time in these observed events may be related to a drop in density rather than a drop in line-of-sight velocity.

Analysis of interleukin (IL)-1 beta and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta-induced signal transduction pathways in IL-2 and TGF-beta secretion and proliferation in the thymoma cell line EL4.NOB-1.

PubMed

Siese, A; Jaros, P P; Willig, A

1999-02-01

In the present study we investigated the interleukin (IL)-1beta and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1)-mediated proliferation, and production of IL-2 and TGF-beta, in the murine T-cell line, EL4.NOB-1. This cell line is resistant to TGF-beta concerning growth arrest but not autoinduction or suppression of IL-1-induced IL-2 production. When cocultured with IL-1beta, TGF-beta showed growth-promoting activity that could be antagonized by adding the phosphatidyl choline-dependent phospholipase C (PC-PLC) inhibitor, D609. Using specific enzyme inhibitors of protein kinases (PK) C and A, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), phosphatidylinositol-dependent (PI)-PLC and PC-PLC, we showed that IL-1beta-induced IL-2 synthesis was dependent on all investigated kinases and phospholipases, except PC-PLC. TGF-beta1 was able to inhibit IL-2 synthesis by the activation of PKA and MAPK. The same kinases are involved in TGF-beta autoinduction that is accompanied by a secretion of the active but not the latent growth factor and is antagonized by IL-1beta. Addition of the PI-PLC inhibitor, ET 18OCH3, or the PLA2 inhibitor (quinacrine) alone, resulted in secretion of latent TGF-beta and, in the case of ET 18OCH3, active TGF-beta. These data implicate a role for PI-PLC and PLA2 in the control of latency and secretion. Analysis of specific tyrosine activity and c-Fos expression showed synergistic but no antagonistic effects. These events are therefore not involved in IL- and TGF-beta-regulated IL-2 and TGF-beta production, but might participate in IL-1/TGF-beta-induced growth promotion.

Time Variations of Observed H α Line Profiles and Precipitation Depths of Nonthermal Electrons in a Solar Flare

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Falewicz, Robert; Radziszewski, Krzysztof; Rudawy, Paweł

2017-10-01

We compare time variations of the H α and X-ray emissions observed during the pre-impulsive and impulsive phases of the C1.1-class solar flare on 2013 June 21 with those of plasma parameters and synthesized X-ray emission from a 1D hydrodynamic numerical model of the flare. The numerical model was calculated assuming that the external energy is delivered to the flaring loop by nonthermal electrons (NTEs). The H α spectra and images were obtained using the Multi-channel Subtractive Double Pass spectrograph with a time resolution of 50 ms. The X-ray fluxes and spectra were recorded by RHESSI . Pre-flare geometric andmore » thermodynamic parameters of the model and the delivered energy were estimated using RHESSI data. The time variations of the X-ray light curves in various energy bands and those of the H α intensities and line profiles were well correlated. The timescales of the observed variations agree with the calculated variations of the plasma parameters in the flaring loop footpoints, reflecting the time variations of the vertical extent of the energy deposition layer. Our result shows that the fast time variations of the H α emission of the flaring kernels can be explained by momentary changes of the deposited energy flux and the variations of the penetration depths of the NTEs.« less

Activation of the canonical beta-catenin pathway by histamine.

PubMed

Diks, Sander H; Hardwick, James C; Diab, Remco M; van Santen, Marije M; Versteeg, Henri H; van Deventer, Sander J H; Richel, Dick J; Peppelenbosch, Maikel P

2003-12-26

Histamine signaling is a principal regulator in a variety of pathophysiological processes including inflammation, gastric acid secretion, neurotransmission, and tumor growth. We report that histamine stimulation causes transactivation of a T cell factor/beta-catenin-responsive construct in HeLa cells and in the SW-480 colon cell line, whereas histamine did not effect transactivation of a construct containing the mutated response construct FOP. On the protein level, histamine treatment increases phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3-beta in HeLa cells, murine macrophages, and DLD-1, HT-29, and SW-480 colon cell lines. Furthermore, histamine also decreases the phosphorylated beta-catenin content in HeLa cells and murine macrophages. Finally, pharmacological inhibitors of the histamine H1 receptor counteracted histamine-induced T cell factor/beta-catenin-responsive construct transactivation and the dephosphorylation of beta-catenin in HeLa cells and in macrophages. We conclude that the canonical beta-catenin pathway acts downstream of the histamine receptor H1 in a variety of cell types. The observation that inflammatory molecules, like histamine, activate the beta-catenin pathway may provide a molecular explanation for a possible link between inflammation and cancer.

The BUSS spectrum of Beta Lyrae. [Balloon-borne Ultraviolet Stellar Spectrograph

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hack, M.; Sahade, J.; De Jager, C.; Kondo, Y.

1983-01-01

The spectrum of Beta Lyrae from about 1975 to 3010 A taken with the Balloon-borne ultraviolet Stellar Spectrograph experiment in May 1976 at phase 0.61 P is analyzed. Results show the presence of N II semi-forbidden emission and provide evidence for about the same location, in the outer envelope of the system, of the layers responsible for the resonance Mg II doublet emissions and for the "narrow" H-alpha emission. In addition, three sets of absorption lines, P Cygni profiles of Fe III and broad Beals Type III emissions of Mg II, are found to be present.

Alkaline pH induces IRR-mediated phosphorylation of IRS-1 and actin cytoskeleton remodeling in a pancreatic beta cell line.

PubMed

Deyev, Igor E; Popova, Nadezhda V; Serova, Oxana V; Zhenilo, Svetlana V; Regoli, Marì; Bertelli, Eugenio; Petrenko, Alexander G

2017-07-01

Secretion of mildly alkaline (pH 8.0-8.5) juice to intestines is one of the key functions of the pancreas. Recent reports indicate that the pancreatic duct system containing the alkaline juice may adjoin the endocrine cells of pancreatic islets. We have previously identified the insulin receptor-related receptor (IRR) that is expressed in islets as a sensor of mildly alkaline extracellular media. In this study, we show that those islet cells that are in contact with the excretory ducts are also IRR-expressing cells. We further analyzed the effects of alkaline media on pancreatic beta cell line MIN6. Activation of endogenous IRR but not of the insulin receptor was detected that could be inhibited with linsitinib. The IRR autophosphorylation correlated with pH-dependent linsitinib-sensitive activation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), the primary adaptor in the insulin signaling pathway. However, in contrast with insulin stimulation, no protein kinase B (Akt/PKB) phosphorylation was detected as a result of alkali treatment. We observed overexpression of several early response genes (EGR2, IER2, FOSB, EGR1 and NPAS4) upon alkali treatment of MIN6 cells but those were IRR-independent. The alkaline medium but not insulin also triggered actin cytoskeleton remodeling that was blocked by pre-incubation with linsitinib. We propose that the activation of IRR by alkali might be part of a local loop of signaling between the exocrine and endocrine parts of the pancreas where alkalinization of the juice facilitate insulin release that increases the volume of secreted juice to control its pH and bicabonate content. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. and Société Française de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Eclipsing and density effects on the spectral behavior of Beta Lyrae binary system in the UV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanad, M. R.

2010-01-01

We analyze both long and short high resolution ultraviolet spectrum of Beta Lyrae eclipsing binary system observed with the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) between 1980 and 1989. The main spectral features are P Cygni profiles originating from different environments of Beta Lyrae. A set of 23 Mg II k&h spectral lines at 2800 Å, originating from the extended envelope [Hack, M., 1980. IAUS, 88, 271H], have been identified and measured to determine their fluxes and widths. We found that there is spectral variability for these physical parameters with phase, similar to that found for the light curve [Kondo, Y., McCluskey, G.E., Jeffery, M.M.S., Ronald, S.P., Carolina, P.S. McCluskey, Joel, A.E., 1994. ApJ, 421, 787], which we attribute to the eclipse effects [Ak, H., Chadima, P., Harmanec, P., Demircan, O., Yang, S., Koubský, P., Škoda, P., Šlechta, M., Wolf, M., Božić, H., 2007. A&A, 463, 233], in addition to the changes of density and temperature of the region from which these lines are coming, as a result of the variability of mass loss from the primary star to the secondary [Hoffman, J.L., Nordsieck, K.H., Fox, G.K., 1998. AJ, 115, 1576; Linnell, A.P., Hubeny, I., Harmanec, P., 1998. ApJ, 509, 379]. Also we present a study of Fe II spectral line at 2600 Å, originating from the atmosphere of the primary star [Hack, M., 1980. IAUS, 88, 271H]. We found spectral variability of line fluxes and line widths with phase similar to that found for Mg II k&h lines. Finally we present a study of Si IV spectral line at 1394 Å, originating from the extended envelope [Hack, M., 1980. IAUS, 88, 271H]. A set of 52 Si IV spectral line at 1394 Å have been identified and measured to determine their fluxes and widths. Also we found spectral variability of these physical parameters with phase similar to that found for Mg II k&h and Fe II spectral lines.

Recommended Isolated-Line Profile for Representing High-Resolution Spectroscoscopic Transitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tennyson, J.; Bernath, P. F.; Campargue, A.; Császár, A. G.; Daumont, L.; Gamache, R. R.; Hodges, J. T.; Lisak, D.; Naumenko, O. V.; Rothman, L. S.; Tran, H.; Hartmann, J.-M.; Zobov, N. F.; Buldyreva, J.; Boone, C. D.; De Vizia, M. Domenica; Gianfrani, L.; McPheat, R.; Weidmann, D.; Murray, J.; Ngo, N. H.; Polyansky, O. L.

2014-06-01

Recommendations of an IUPAC Task Group, formed in 2011 on "Intensities and line shapes in high-resolution spectra of water isotopologues from experiment and theory" (Project No. 2011-022-2-100), on line profiles of isolated high-resolution rotational-vibrational transitions perturbed by neutral gas-phase molecules are presented. The well-documented inadequacies of the Voigt profile, used almost universally by databases and radiative-transfer codes to represent pressure effects and Doppler broadening in isolated vibrational-rotational and pure rotational transitions of the water molecule, have resulted in the development of a variety of alternative line profile models. These models capture more of the physics of the influence of pressure on line shapes but, in general, at the price of greater complexity. The Task Group recommends that the partially-Correlated quadratic-Speed-Dependent Hard-Collision profile should be adopted as the appropriate model for high-resolution spectroscopy. For simplicity this should be called the Hartmann-Tran profile (HTP). This profile is sophisticated enough to capture the various collisional contributions to the isolated line shape, can be computed in a straightforward and rapid manner, and reduces to simpler profiles, including the Voigt profile, under certain simplifying assumptions. For further details see: J. Tennyson et al, Pure Appl. Chem., 2014, in press.

A (1)H-NMR study on the effect of high pressures on beta-lactoglobulin.

PubMed

Belloque, J; López-Fandiño, R; Smith, G M

2000-09-01

1H NMR was used to study the effect of high pressure on changes in the structure of beta-lactoglobulin (beta-Lg), particularly the strongly bonded regions, the "core". beta-Lg was exposed to pressures ranging from 100 to 400 MPa at neutral pH. After depressurization and acidification to pH 2.0, (1)H NMR spectra were taken. Pressure-induced unfolding was studied by deuterium exchange. Refolding was also evaluated. Our results showed that the core was unaltered at 100 MPa but increased its conformational flexibility at >/=200 MPa. Even though the core was highly flexible at 400 MPa, its structure was found to be identical to the native structure after equilibration back to atmospheric pressure. It is suggested that pressure-induced aggregates are formed by beta-Lg molecules maintaining most of their structure, and the intermolecular -SS- bonds, formed by -SH/-SS- exchange reaction, are likely to involve C(66)-C(160) rather than C(106)-C(119). In addition, the beta-Lg variants A and B could be distinguished in a (1)H NMR spectrum from a solution made with the AB mixed variant, by the differences in chemical shifts of M(107) and C(106); structural implications are discussed. Under pressure, the core of beta-Lg A seemed to unfold faster than that of beta-LgB. The structural recovery of the core was full for both variants.

Evaluating cell lines as tumour models by comparison of genomic profiles

PubMed Central

Domcke, Silvia; Sinha, Rileen; Levine, Douglas A.; Sander, Chris; Schultz, Nikolaus

2013-01-01

Cancer cell lines are frequently used as in vitro tumour models. Recent molecular profiles of hundreds of cell lines from The Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia and thousands of tumour samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas now allow a systematic genomic comparison of cell lines and tumours. Here we analyse a panel of 47 ovarian cancer cell lines and identify those that have the highest genetic similarity to ovarian tumours. Our comparison of copy-number changes, mutations and mRNA expression profiles reveals pronounced differences in molecular profiles between commonly used ovarian cancer cell lines and high-grade serous ovarian cancer tumour samples. We identify several rarely used cell lines that more closely resemble cognate tumour profiles than commonly used cell lines, and we propose these lines as the most suitable models of ovarian cancer. Our results indicate that the gap between cell lines and tumours can be bridged by genomically informed choices of cell line models for all tumour types. PMID:23839242

Escherichia coli FtsH (HflB) degrades a membrane-associated TolAI-II-beta-lactamase fusion protein under highly denaturing conditions.

PubMed

Cooper, K W; Baneyx, F

2001-03-01

TolAI--II--beta-lactamase, a fusion protein consisting of the inner membrane and transperiplasmic domains of TolA followed by TEM--beta-lactamase associated with the inner membrane but remained confined to the cytoplasm when expressed at high level in Escherichia coli. Although the fusion protein was resistant to proteolysis in vivo, it was hydrolyzed during preparative SDS-polyacrylamide electrophoresis and when insoluble cellular fractions unfolded with 5 M urea were subjected to microdialysis. Inhibitor profiling studies revealed that both a metallo- and serine protease were involved in TolAI--II--beta-lactamase degradation under denaturing conditions. The in vitro degradation rates of the fusion protein were not affected when insoluble fractions were harvested from a strain lacking protease IV, but were significantly reduced when microdialysis experiments were conducted with material isolated from an isogenic ftsH1 mutant. Adenine nucleotides were not required for degradation, and ATP supplementation did not accelerate the apparent rate of TolAI--II--beta-lactamase hydrolysis under denaturing conditions. Our results indicate that the metalloprotease active site of FtsH remains functional in the presence of 3--5 M urea and suggest that the ATPase and proteolytic activities of FtsH can be uncoupled if the substrate is sufficiently unstructured. Thus, a key role of the FtsH AAA module appears to be the net unfolding of bound substrates so that they can be efficiently engaged by the protease active site. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Multiperiodicity in the Light Variations of the Beta Cephei Star Beta Crucis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuypers, J.; Aerts, C.; Buzasi, D.; Catanzarite, J.; Conrow, T.; Laher, R.

2002-01-01

High-resolution spectroscopic observations have led recently to the discovery that the P Cephei star Beta Crucis (Mimosa) is multiperiodic with at least three non-radial pulsation modes. Data obtained by the star tracker of the WIRE satellite have now allowed us to confirm this multiperiodicity in the light variations. A total of five million observations covering 17 days was analyzed and the three main periods we find in this work are in perfect agreement with the results derived from the line profile variations. The photometric amplitudes are small (3, 2.7 and 0.6 millimag for the dominant modes), but this is not surprising in view of the mode identifications derived earlier from the line profiles. Additional periods of low-amplitude modes (between 0.2-0.3 mmag) are also derived, including one suggested earlier by the radial velocity data.

Active core profile and transport modification by application of ion Bernstein wave power in the Princeton Beta Experiment-Modification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LeBlanc, B.; Batha, S.; Bell, R.; Bernabei, S.; Blush, L.; de la Luna, E.; Doerner, R.; Dunlap, J.; England, A.; Garcia, I.; Ignat, D.; Isler, R.; Jones, S.; Kaita, R.; Kaye, S.; Kugel, H.; Levinton, F.; Luckhardt, S.; Mutoh, T.; Okabayashi, M.; Ono, M.; Paoletti, F.; Paul, S.; Petravich, G.; Post-Zwicker, A.; Sauthoff, N.; Schmitz, L.; Sesnic, S.; Takahashi, H.; Talvard, M.; Tighe, W.; Tynan, G.; von Goeler, S.; Woskov, P.; Zolfaghari, A.

1995-03-01

Application of Ion Bernstein Wave Heating (IBWH) into the Princeton Beta Experiment-Modification (PBX-M) [Phys. Fluids B 2, 1271 (1990)] tokamak stabilizes sawtooth oscillations and generates peaked density profiles. A transport barrier, spatially correlated with the IBWH power deposition profile, is observed in the core of IBWH-assisted neutral beam injection (NBI) discharges. A precursor to the fully developed barrier is seen in the soft x-ray data during edge localized mode (ELM) activity. Sustained IBWH operation is conducive to a regime where the barrier supports large ∇ne, ∇Te, ∇νφ, and ∇Ti, delimiting the confinement zone. This regime is reminiscent of the H(high) mode, but with a confinement zone moved inward. The core region has better than H-mode confinement while the peripheral region is L(low)-mode-like. The peaked profile enhances NBI core deposition and increases nuclear reactivity. An increase in central Ti results from χi reduction (compared to the H mode) and better beam penetration. Bootstrap current fractions of up to 0.32-0.35 locally and 0.28 overall were obtained when an additional NBI burst is applied to this plasma.

THE LICK AGN MONITORING PROJECT: REVERBERATION MAPPING OF OPTICAL HYDROGEN AND HELIUM RECOMBINATION LINES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bentz, Misty C.; Walsh, Jonelle L.; Barth, Aaron J.

2010-06-20

We have recently completed a 64-night spectroscopic monitoring campaign at the Lick Observatory 3 m Shane telescope with the aim of measuring the masses of the black holes in 12 nearby (z < 0.05) Seyfert 1 galaxies with expected masses in the range {approx}10{sup 6}-10{sup 7} M{sub sun} and also the well-studied nearby active galactic nucleus (AGN) NGC 5548. Nine of the objects in the sample (including NGC 5548) showed optical variability of sufficient strength during the monitoring campaign to allow for a time lag to be measured between the continuum fluctuations and the response to these fluctuations in themore » broad H{beta} emission, which we have previously reported. We present here the light curves for the H{alpha}, H{gamma}, He II {lambda}4686, and He I {lambda}5876 emission lines and the time lags for the emission-line responses relative to changes in the continuum flux. Combining each emission-line time lag with the measured width of the line in the variable part of the spectrum, we determine a virial mass of the central supermassive black hole from several independent emission lines. We find that the masses are generally consistent within the uncertainties. The time-lag response as a function of velocity across the Balmer line profiles is examined for six of the AGNs. We find similar responses across all three Balmer lines for Arp 151, which shows a strongly asymmetric profile, and for SBS 1116+583A and NGC 6814, which show a symmetric response about zero velocity. For the other three AGNs, the data quality is somewhat lower and the velocity-resolved time-lag response is less clear. Finally, we compare several trends seen in the data set against the predictions from photoionization calculations as presented by Korista and Goad. We confirm several of their predictions, including an increase in responsivity and a decrease in the mean time lag as the excitation and ionization level for the species increases. Specifically, we find the time lags of the

Cell cycle-related metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics in a replication-competent pancreatic beta-cell line.

PubMed

Montemurro, Chiara; Vadrevu, Suryakiran; Gurlo, Tatyana; Butler, Alexandra E; Vongbunyong, Kenny E; Petcherski, Anton; Shirihai, Orian S; Satin, Leslie S; Braas, Daniel; Butler, Peter C; Tudzarova, Slavica

2017-01-01

Cell replication is a fundamental attribute of growth and repair in multicellular organisms. Pancreatic beta-cells in adults rarely enter cell cycle, hindering the capacity for regeneration in diabetes. Efforts to drive beta-cells into cell cycle have so far largely focused on regulatory molecules such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). Investigations in cancer biology have uncovered that adaptive changes in metabolism, the mitochondrial network, and cellular Ca 2+ are critical for permitting cells to progress through the cell cycle. Here, we investigated these parameters in the replication-competent beta-cell line INS 832/13. Cell cycle synchronization of this line permitted evaluation of cell metabolism, mitochondrial network, and cellular Ca 2+ compartmentalization at key cell cycle stages. The mitochondrial network is interconnected and filamentous at G1/S but fragments during the S and G2/M phases, presumably to permit sorting to daughter cells. Pyruvate anaplerosis peaks at G1/S, consistent with generation of biomass for daughter cells, whereas mitochondrial Ca 2+ and respiration increase during S and G2/M, consistent with increased energy requirements for DNA and lipid synthesis. This synchronization approach may be of value to investigators performing live cell imaging of Ca 2+ or mitochondrial dynamics commonly undertaken in INS cell lines because without synchrony widely disparate data from cell to cell would be expected depending on position within cell cycle. Our findings also offer insight into why replicating beta-cells are relatively nonfunctional secreting insulin in response to glucose. They also provide guidance on metabolic requirements of beta-cells for the transition through the cell cycle that may complement the efforts currently restricted to manipulating cell cycle to drive beta-cells through cell cycle.

Raman-Scattering Line Profiles of the Symbiotic Star AG Peg

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Seong-Jae; Hyung, Siek

2017-06-01

The high dispersion Hα and Hβ line profiles of the Symbiotic star AG Peg consist of top double Gaussian and bottom components. We investigated the formation of the broad wings with Raman scattering mechanism. Adopting the same physical parameters from the photo-ionization study of Kim and Hyung (2008) for the white dwarf and the ionized gas shell, Monte Carlo simulations were carried out for a rotating accretion disk geometry of non-symmetrical latitude angles from -7° < θ < +7° to -16° < θ < +16°. The smaller latitude angle of the disk corresponds to the approaching side of the disk responsible for weak blue Gaussian profile, while the wider latitude angle corresponds to the other side of the disk responsible for the strong red Gaussian profile. We confirmed that the shell has the high gas density ˜ 109.85 cm-3 in the ionized zone of AG Peg derived in the previous photo-ionization model study. The simulation with various HI shell column densities (characterized by a thickness ΔD × gas number density nH) shows that the HI gas shell with a column density Hhi ≈ 3 - 5 × 1019 cm-2 fits the observed line profiles well. The estimated rotation speed of the accretion disk shell is in the range of 44 - 55 kms-1. We conclude that the kinematically incoherent structure involving the outflowing gas from the giant star caused an asymmetry of the disk and double Gaussian profiles found in AG Peg.

A first-line nurse manager's goal-profile.

PubMed

Johansson, Gunilla; Pörn, Ingmar; Theorell, Töres; Gustafsson, Barbro

2007-01-01

The aim of this case study was to acquire understanding concerning the first-line nurse manager's goal-profile, i.e. prioritization of goals in her work as a first-line nurse manager, through use of an action-theoretic and confirmatory theory. The first-line nurse manager's pivotal role regarding quality of care and development in relation to on-going changes in the health care sector is stressed by many researchers and the transition from nurse to manager is described as a demanding challenge for the first-line nurse manager. The case study described in this paper concerns a first-line nurse manager in an actual working environment in care of older people. Data collection comprised interviews, observations, a job description and policy documents. A hermeneutic interpretation was used for data analysis. The results showed that the first-line nurse manager had three goals in her goal-profile, in the following order of priority: (i) a nurse goal that she had strongly accepted and in which she had excellent control, (ii) an administrator goal that she had accepted and in which she had control, (iii) a leadership goal that she had not accepted and in which she did not have control. Both the administrator and leadership goals were based on her job description, but the nurse goal was a personally chosen goal based on her own self-relation/goal-fulfillment. The first-line nurse manager's prioritized self-identity, based on successful realization of goals in her goal-profile, was decisive in the manifestation of her work. This study contributes to a new understanding of the first-line nurse manager's self-identity related to work in terms of goal acceptance and goal control of prioritized goals. This action-theoretic approach could be a valuable 'key' for understanding leadership (or lack of leadership) in clinical practice.

Rigidity and pH dependent Morphology of Beta-Lactoglobulin Spherulites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gayetsky, Lisa; Armstead, Douglas

2008-03-01

Beta-Lactoglobulin is a milk protein that will denature in acidic solution (less than 2.0 pH) and if heated for extended periods (greater than 18 hours) it will form radial structures called Spherulites. Spherulites, along with the amyloid fibrils that compose them, are of practical importance because they form in the human body and cause the amyloidosis diseases. Different amyloidosis are caused by different types of denatured proteins occurring in different parts of the body. Since it is believed that Spherulite formation is a generic protein characteristic, Beta-Lactoglobulin is a legitimate and easy to use protein to study these structures. In this study we are quantifying the shape of Beta-Lactoglobulin Spherulites to determine if the pH of the protein solution has an impact on the morphology due to side chain interactions or other causes. We are also testing the rigidity of these structures to determine the relevance of small shape changes.

GSK-3beta inhibition enhances sorafenib-induced apoptosis in melanoma cell lines.

PubMed

Panka, David J; Cho, Daniel C; Atkins, Michael B; Mier, James W

2008-01-11

Glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta) can participate in the induction of apoptosis or, alternatively, provide a survival signal that minimizes cellular injury. We previously demonstrated that the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib induces apoptosis in melanoma cell lines. In this report, we show that sorafenib activates GSK-3beta in multiple subcellular compartments and that this activation undermines the lethality of the drug. Pharmacologic inhibition and/or down-modulation of the kinase enhances sorafenib-induced apoptosis as determined by propidium iodide staining and by assessing the mitochondrial release of apoptosis-inducing factor and Smac/DIABLO. Conversely, the forced expression of a constitutively active form of the enzyme (GSK-3beta(S9A)) protects the cells from the apoptotic effects of the drug. This protective effect is associated with a marked increase in basal levels of Bcl-2, Bcl-x(L), and survivin and a diminution in the degree to which these anti-apoptotic proteins are down-modulated by sorafenib exposure. Sorafenib down-modulates the pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member Noxa in cells with high constitutive GSK-3beta activity. Pharmacologic inhibition of GSK-3beta prevents the disappearance of Noxa induced by sorafenib and enhances the down-modulation of Mcl-1. Down-modulation of Noxa largely eliminates the enhancing effect of GSK-3 inhibition on sorafenib-induced apoptosis. These data provide a strong rationale for the use of GSK-3beta inhibitors as adjuncts to sorafenib treatment and suggest that preservation of Noxa may contribute to their efficacy.

New frontiers in H-Beta auroral photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Unick, C.; Donovan, E.; Connors, M. G.; Spanswick, E.; Jackel, B. J.; Greffen, M. J.; Wilson, C.; Little, J.; Chaddock, D.; Schofield, I.; MacRae, A.; Chen, S.; Crowther, A.; James, S.; Read, A.; Willis, T.

2013-12-01

The proton aurora provides valuable information about magnetotail structure and dynamics. For example, the location of the equatorward boundary of the proton aurora is a robust indicator of magnetotail stretching. Also, proton auroral luminosities combined with in situ ion measurements provide important information about magnetic mapping between the inner CPS and the auroral ionosphere. In this paper, we present a new and innovative proton-auroral (H-Beta) meridian-scanning photometer (MSP) capable of higher spatial and temporal resolution than has been achieved in the past. This H-Beta MSP is the first of a new dual-wavelength (signal/background) MSP design with a single scanning mirror and no other moving parts. The novel filtering architecture allows for a near 100% duty cycle with a 30-second meridian scan and configurable operating modes. The new design is significantly more sensitive than the legacy CANOPUS MSPs. The increased SNR can be employed in a variety of ways, such as to achieve significantly higher time resolution. Here, we present the new instrument design, test data from a commissioning campaign in Athabasca, and some thoughts on how the enhance proton auroral capability can increase the science value of these measurements.

Sodium D-line emission from Io - Comparison of observed and theoretical line profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carlson, R. W.; Matson, D. L.; Johnson, T. V.; Bergstralh, J. T.

1978-01-01

High-resolution spectra of the D-line profiles have been obtained for Io's sodium emission cloud. These lines, which are produced through resonance scattering of sunlight, are broad and asymmetric and can be used to infer source and dynamical properties of the sodium cloud. In this paper we compare line profile data with theoretical line shapes computed for several assumed initial velocity distributions corresponding to various source mechanisms. We also examine the consequences of source distributions which are nonuniform over the surface of Io. It is found that the experimental data are compatible with escape of sodium atoms from the leading hemisphere of Io and with velocity distributions characteristic of sputtering processes. Thermal escape and simple models of plasma sweeping are found to be incompatible with the observations.

[Preparation of coated tablets of glycyrrhetic acid-HP-beta-cyclodextrin tablets for colon-specific release].

PubMed

Cui, Qi-Hua; Cui, Jing-Hao; Zhang, Jin-Jin

2008-10-01

To prepare coated tablets of glycyrrhetinic acid and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (GTA-HP-beta-CYD) inclusion complex tablets for colon-specific release. In order to improve the solubility of GTA, the GTA-HP-beta-CYD inclusion complex was prepared by ultrasonic-lyophilization technique and its formation were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction profiles and infrared spectrometry. The effects of inclusion condition on the inclusion efficiency and stability coefficient of inclusion complex were investigated, respectively. After prepared GTA-HP-beta-CYD tablets by powder direct compression, the pH dependant polymer Eudragit III and/or mixed with Eudragit II were used for further coating materials in fluid-bed coater. The influences of coating weight on the GTA release in different pH conditions were evaluated to establish the method for prepering colon specific delivery tablets with pulsed release properties. The formation of inclusion complexes were proved by X-ray powder diffraction profile and phase solubility curve. The effect of pH value of solvent was played critical role on the preparation of GTA- HP-beta-CYD inclusion complex. And the inclusion efficiency of GTA was 9. 3% and the solubility was increased to 54. 6 times at optimized method. The Eudragit III coated GTA- HP-beta-CYD tablets with coating weight 10% and 16% were showed pH dependant colon specific release profiles with slow release rate. The release profile of tablets coated with the mixture of Eudragit II and Eudragit III (1:2) were indicated typical pH dependant colon specific and pulsed release properties while the coating weight was 17%. The preliminary method for preparation of colon specific release tablets containing glycyrrhetinic acid with improved solubility was established for further in vivo therapeutic experiment.

Dual fluorescence of N-phenylanthranilic acid: Effect of solvents, pH and beta-cyclodextrin.

PubMed

Rajendiran, N; Balasubramanian, T

2007-11-01

Spectral characteristics of N-phenylanthranilic acid (NPAA) have been studied in different solvents, pH and beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) and compared with anthranilic acid (2-aminobenzoic acid, 2ABA). In all solvents a dual fluorescence is observed in NPAA, whereas 2ABA gives single emission. Combining the results observed in the absorption, fluorescence emission and fluorescence excitation spectra, it is found that strong intramolecular hydrogen bonding (IHB) interactions present in NPAA molecule. The inclusion complex of NPAA with beta-CD is analysed by UV-vis, fluorimetry, FT-IR, (1)H NMR, scanning electron microscope and AM 1 method. The above spectral studies show that NPAA forms a 1:1 inclusion complex with beta-CD and COOH group present in the beta-CD cavity. A mechanism is proposed to explain the inclusion process.

Bucindolol, a nonselective beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, decreases beta-adrenergic receptor density in cultured embryonic chick cardiac myocyte membranes.

PubMed

Asano, K; Zisman, L S; Yoshikawa, T; Headley, V; Bristow, M R; Port, J D

2001-06-01

Bucindolol and carvedilol, nonselective beta1- and beta2-adrenergic receptor antagonists, have been widely used in clinical therapeutic trials of congestive heart failure. The aim of the current study was to investigate long-term effects of bucindolol or carvedilol on beta-adrenergic receptor protein and gene expression in cardiac myocytes. Embryonic chick cardiac myocytes were cultured and incubated with bucindolol (1 microM), carvedilol (1 microM), or norepinephrine (1 microM) for 24 h. 125I-iodocyanopindolol binding assays demonstrated that incubation with norepinephrine or bucindolol, but not carvedilol, significantly decreased beta-adrenergic receptor density in crude membranes prepared from the myocytes. Neither bucindolol nor carvedilol significantly stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in membranes from drug-untreated cells. Unlike by norepinephrine, the receptor density reduction by bucindolol incubation was not accompanied by a change in beta1-adrenergic receptor messenger RNA abundance. A decrease in membrane beta-adrenergic receptor density without a change in cognate messenger RNA abundance was also observed in hamster DDT1 MF2 cell line incubated with bucindolol (1 microM, 24 h). We conclude that incubation with bucindolol, but not carvedilol, results in true reduction of beta-adrenergic receptor density in chick cardiac myocyte membranes by mechanisms that are distinct from those responsible for receptor density reduction by the agonist norepinephrine.

Circadian rhythms, Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and PPAR alpha/gamma profiles in diseases with primary or secondary cardiac dysfunction

PubMed Central

Lecarpentier, Yves; Claes, Victor; Duthoit, Guillaume; Hébert, Jean-Louis

2014-01-01

Circadian clock mechanisms are far-from-equilibrium dissipative structures. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR alpha, beta/delta, and gamma) play a key role in metabolic regulatory processes, particularly in heart muscle. Links between circadian rhythms (CRs) and PPARs have been established. Mammalian CRs involve at least two critical transcription factors, CLOCK and BMAL1 (Gekakis et al., 1998; Hogenesch et al., 1998). PPAR gamma plays a major role in both glucose and lipid metabolisms and presents circadian properties which coordinate the interplay between metabolism and CRs. PPAR gamma is a major component of the vascular clock. Vascular PPAR gamma is a peripheral regulator of cardiovascular rhythms controlling circadian variations in blood pressure and heart rate through BMAL1. We focused our review on diseases with abnormalities of CRs and with primary or secondary cardiac dysfunction. Moreover, these diseases presented changes in the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and PPARs, according to two opposed profiles. Profile 1 was defined as follows: inactivation of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway with increased expression of PPAR gamma. Profile 2 was defined as follows: activation of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway with decreased expression of PPAR gamma. A typical profile 1 disease is arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, a genetic cardiac disease which presents mutations of the desmosomal proteins and is mainly characterized by fatty acid accumulation in adult cardiomyocytes mainly in the right ventricle. The link between PPAR gamma dysfunction and desmosomal genetic mutations occurs via inactivation of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway presenting oscillatory properties. A typical profile 2 disease is type 2 diabetes, with activation of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and decreased expression of PPAR gamma. CRs abnormalities are present in numerous pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, sympathetic/parasympathetic dysfunction, hypertension, diabetes

Implications of high-velocity interstellar H I absorption features

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cowie, L.; York, D. G.; Laurent, C.; Vidal-Madjar, A.

1979-01-01

Contributions to the interstellar H I column density at high velocities from immediate postshock gas and from the cooling gas behind a shock are compared. The detection of high-velocity H I in L-epsilon and L-delta for Iota Ori is reported and interpreted as cooling gas behind a shock of 100 km/s velocity. The immediate postshock gas should be observable for shock velocities greater than 200 km/s and permits direct determination of the velocities of adiabatic shocks in the interstellar medium. It is pointed out that interstellar L-alpha and L-beta lines may not have purely Lorentzian profiles if high-velocity H I is a widespread phenomenon.

ExoMol molecular line lists - XXVII: spectra of C2H4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mant, Barry P.; Yachmenev, Andrey; Yurchenko, Jonathan Tennyson Sergei N.

2018-05-01

A new line list for ethylene, 12C21H4 is presented. The line list is based on high level ab initiopotential energy and dipole moment surfaces. The potential energy surface is refined by fitting to experimental energies. The line list covers the range up to 7000 cm-1(1.43 μm) with all ro-vibrational transitions (50 billion) with the lower state below 5000 cm-1included and thus should be applicable for temperatures up to 700 K. A technique for computing molecular opacities from vibrational band intensities is proposed and used to provide temperature dependent cross sections of ethylene for shorter wavelength and higher temperatures. When combined with realistic band profiles (such as the proposed three-band model), the vibrational intensity technique offers a cheap but reasonably accurate alternative to the full ro-vibrational calculations at high temperatures and should be reliable for representing molecular opacities. The C2H4 line list, which is called MaYTY, is rmade available in electronic form from the CDS (http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr) and ExoMol (www.exomol.com) databases.

2'-Deoxy-3,7-dideazaguanosine and related compounds. Synthesis of 6-amino-1-(2-deoxy-beta-D-erythro-pentofuranosyl) and 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c]pyridin-4(5H)-one via direct glycosylation of a pyrrole precursor.

PubMed Central

Girgis, N S; Cottam, H B; Larson, S B; Robins, R K

1987-01-01

The synthesis of two new analogs of 2'-deoxyguanosine, 6-amino-1-(2-deoxy-beta-D-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c] pyridin-4(5H)-one (8) and 6-amino-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c]-pyridin-4(5H)-one (13) has been accomplished by glycosylation of the sodium salt of ethyl 2-cyanomethyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxylate (4c) using 1-chloro-2-deoxy-3,5-di-O-p-toluoyl-alpha-D-erythro-pentofuranose( 5) and 1-chloro-2,3,5-tri-O-benzyl-alpha-D-arabinofuranose (9), respectively. The resulting blocked nucleosides, ethyl 2-cyanomethyl-1-(2-deoxy-3,5-di-O-p-toluoyl-beta-D-erythro- pentofuranosyl)-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxylate (6) and ethyl 2-cyanomethyl-1-(2,3,5-tri-O-benzyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)- 1H-pyrrole-3-carboxylate, were ring closed with hydrazine to form 5-amino-6-hydrazino-1-(2-deoxy-beta-D-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-1H- pyrrolo[3,2-c]-pyridin-4(5H)-one (7) and 5,6-diamino-1-(2,3,5-tri-O-benzyl-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)-1H- pyrrolo[3,2-c]pyridin-4(5H)-one (11), respectively. Treatment of 7 with Raney nickel provided the 2'-deoxyguanosine analog 8 while reaction of 11 with Raney nickel followed by palladium hydroxide/cyclohexene treatment gave the 2'-deoxyguanosine analog 13. The anomeric configuration of 8 was assigned as beta by proton NMR, while that of 13 was confirmed as beta by single-crystal X-ray analysis of the deblocked precursor ethyl 2-cyanomethyl-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxylate (10a). PMID:3593477

Numerical Evaluation of Parameter Correlation in the Hartmann-Tran Line Profile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adkins, Erin M.; Reed, Zachary; Hodges, Joseph T.

2017-06-01

The partially correlated quadratic, speed-dependent hard-collision profile (pCqSDHCP), for simplicity referred to as the Hartmann-Tran profile (HTP), has been recommended as a generalized lineshape for high resolution spectroscopy. The HTP parameterizes complex collisional effects such as Dicke narrowing, speed dependent narrowing, and correlations between velocity-changing and dephasing collisions, while also simplifying to simpler profiles that are widely used, such as the Voigt profile. As advanced lineshape profiles are adopted by more researchers, it is important to understand the limitations that data quality has on the ability to retrieve physically meaningful parameters using sophisticated lineshapes that are fit to spectra of finite signal-to-noise ratio. In this work, spectra were simulated using the HITRAN Application Programming Interface (HAPI) across a full range of line parameters. Simulated spectra were evaluated to quantify the precision with which fitted lineshape parameters can be determined at a given signal-to-noise ratio, focusing on the numerical correlation between the retrieved Dicke narrowing frequency and the velocity-changing and dephasing collisions correlation parameter. Tran, H., N. Ngo, and J.-M. Hartmann, Journal of Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer 2013. 129: p. 89-100. Tennyson, et al., Pure Appl. Chem. 2014, 86: p. 1931-1943. Kochanov, R.V., et al., Journal of Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer 2016. 177: p. 15-30. Tran, H., N. Ngo, and J.-M. Hartmann, Journal of Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer 2013. 129: p. 199-203.

Bulk soil and rhizosphere bacterial community PCR-DGGE profiles and beta-galactosidase activity as indicators of biological quality in soils contaminated by heavy metals and cultivated with Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke.

PubMed

Martínez-Iñigo, M J; Pérez-Sanz, A; Ortiz, I; Alonso, J; Alarcón, R; García, P; Lobo, M C

2009-06-01

The biological quality of two heavy metal contaminated soils (soil C: Typic Calcixerept, pH 8.3 and soil H: Typic Haploxeraf, pH 7.3) was investigated after growing the metal-tolerant plant Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke for two vegetative periods. The activity of the enzyme beta-galactosidase, which is sensitive to the presence of contaminants in soil, and the polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) profiles of 16S rRNA gene fragments of culturable bacteria from bulk soil and rhizosphere were determined. The microbial enzymatic activity was higher in planted soils than in bare soils at the contamination level of 600 mg of total heavy metals kg(-1) soil. After growing S. vulgaris, beta-galactosidase activity was almost recovered in the calcareous soil. In this soil new bands appeared in the PCR-DGGE profiles of the rhizosphere bacterial community as a response to the exposure to heavy metals.

beta-Endorphin-induced analgesia is inhibited by synthetic analogs of beta-endorphin.

PubMed

Nicolas, P; Hammonds, R G; Li, C H

1984-05-01

Competitive antagonism of human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP)-induced analgesia by synthetic beta h-EP analogs with high in vitro opiate receptor binding to in vivo analgesic potency ratio has been demonstrated. A parallel shift of the dose-response curve for analgesia to the right was observed when either beta h-EP or [ Trp27 ] -beta h-EP was coinjected with various doses of [Gln8, Gly31 ]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP, or [ Cys11 ,26, Phe27 , Gly31 ]-beta h-EP. It was estimated that the most potent antagonist, [Gln8, Gly31 ]-beta h-EP-Gly-NH2, is at least 200 times more potent than naloxone.

beta-Endorphin-induced analgesia is inhibited by synthetic analogs of beta-endorphin.

PubMed Central

Nicolas, P; Hammonds, R G; Li, C H

1984-01-01

Competitive antagonism of human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP)-induced analgesia by synthetic beta h-EP analogs with high in vitro opiate receptor binding to in vivo analgesic potency ratio has been demonstrated. A parallel shift of the dose-response curve for analgesia to the right was observed when either beta h-EP or [ Trp27 ] -beta h-EP was coinjected with various doses of [Gln8, Gly31 ]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP, or [ Cys11 ,26, Phe27 , Gly31 ]-beta h-EP. It was estimated that the most potent antagonist, [Gln8, Gly31 ]-beta h-EP-Gly-NH2, is at least 200 times more potent than naloxone. PMID:6328494

A qualitative interpretation of 7 August 1972 impulsive phase flare H alpha line profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canfield, R. C.

1982-01-01

The considered investigation shows that existing models of the formation of the H-alpha line during flares appear to provide clear qualitative evidence that heating of the H-alpha forming regions of the flare chromosphere in the bright H-alpha kernels observed during the impulsive phase of solar flares is not due primarily to heating by Coulomb collisions of a power-law distribution of 10-100 keV electrons with chromospheric material. It appears rather that some shorter-range process, involving possibly conduction or optically thick radiative transfer, is favored. Such a conclusion is clearly relevant to collisionless confinement modelling. However, much work remains to be done before there will be a basis for quantitatively testing the consistency of the considered picture with chromospheric diagnostics.

The neuroendocrine phenotype, genomic profile and therapeutic sensitivity of GEPNET cell lines

PubMed Central

Hofving, Tobias; Arvidsson, Yvonne; Almobarak, Bilal; Inge, Linda; Pfragner, Roswitha; Persson, Marta; Stenman, Göran; Kristiansson, Erik; Johanson, Viktor; Nilsson, Ola

2018-01-01

Experimental models of neuroendocrine tumour disease are scarce, and no comprehensive characterisation of existing gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (GEPNET) cell lines has been reported. In this study, we aimed to define the molecular characteristics and therapeutic sensitivity of these cell lines. We therefore performed immunophenotyping, copy number profiling, whole-exome sequencing and a large-scale inhibitor screening of seven GEPNET cell lines. Four cell lines, GOT1, P-STS, BON-1 and QGP-1, displayed a neuroendocrine phenotype while three others, KRJ-I, L-STS and H-STS, did not. Instead, these three cell lines were identified as lymphoblastoid. Characterisation of remaining authentic GEPNET cell lines by copy number profiling showed that GOT1, among other chromosomal alterations, harboured losses on chromosome 18 encompassing the SMAD4 gene, while P-STS had a loss on 11q. BON-1 had a homozygous loss of CDKN2A and CDKN2B, and QGP-1 harboured amplifications of MDM2 and HMGA2. Whole-exome sequencing revealed both disease-characteristic mutations (e.g. ATRX mutation in QGP-1) and, for patient tumours, rare genetic events (e.g. TP53 mutation in P-STS, BON-1 and QGP-1). A large-scale inhibitor screening showed that cell lines from pancreatic NETs to a greater extent, when compared to small intestinal NETs, were sensitive to inhibitors of MEK. Similarly, neuroendocrine NET cells originating from the small intestine were considerably more sensitive to a group of HDAC inhibitors. Taken together, our results provide a comprehensive characterisation of GEPNET cell lines, demonstrate their relevance as neuroendocrine tumour models and explore their therapeutic sensitivity to a broad range of inhibitors. PMID:29444910

Velocity profiles of high-excitation molecular hydrogen lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhouse, A.; Brand, P. W. J. L.; Geballe, T. R.; Burton, M. G.

1990-01-01

Profiles of three lines of molecular hydrogen near 2.2 microns, originating from widely spaced energy levels, have been measured at a resolution of 32 km/s at Peak 1 in the Orion molecular outflow. The three lines, 1 - 0 S(1), 2 - 1 S(1), and 3 - 2 S(3), are found to have identical profiles. This result rules out any significant contribution to the population of the higher energy levels of molecular hydrogen at Peak 1 by fluorescence, and is generally consistent with emission from multiple J-type shocks.

RNA interference of Arabidopsis beta-amylase8 prevents maltose accumulation upon cold shock and increases sensitivity of PSII photochemical efficiency to freezing stress.

PubMed

Kaplan, Fatma; Guy, Charles L

2005-12-01

It has been suggested that beta-amylase (BMY) induction during temperature stress in Arabidopsis could lead to starch-dependent maltose accumulation, and that maltose may contribute to protection of the electron transport chain and proteins in the chloroplast stroma during acute stress. A time-course transcript profiling analysis for cold shock at 4 degrees C revealed that BMY8 (At4g17090) was induced specifically in response to cold shock, while major induction was not observed for any of the other eight beta-amylases. A parallel metabolite-profiling analysis revealed a robust transient maltose accumulation during cold shock. BMY8 RNAi lines with lower BMY8 expression exhibited a starch-excess phenotype, and a dramatic decrease in maltose accumulation during a 6-h cold shock at 4 degrees C. The decreased maltose content was also accompanied by decreased glucose, fructose and sucrose content in the BMY8 RNAi plants, consistent with the roles of beta-amylase and maltose in transitory starch metabolism. BMY8 RNAi lines with reduced soluble sugar content exhibited diminished chlorophyll fluorescence as F(v)/F(m) ratio compared with wild type, suggesting that PSII photochemical efficiency was more sensitive to freezing stress. Together, carbohydrate analysis and freezing stress results of BMY8 RNAi lines indicate that increased maltose content, by itself or together through a maltose-dependent increase in other soluble sugars, contributes to the protection of the photosynthetic electron transport chain during freezing stress.

Establishment and characterization of scleroderma fibroblast clonal cell lines by introduction of the hTERT gene.

PubMed

Kapanadze, Bagrat; Morris, Erin; Smith, Edwin; Trojanowska, Maria

2010-05-01

Lack of an adequate experimental model has hindered the ability to fully understand scleroderma (SSc) pathogenesis. Current SSc research is based on the study of cultured fibroblasts from skin biopsies. In depth characterization of the SSc fibroblast phenotype is hindered by the limited lifespan and heterogeneity of these cells. The goal of this study was to isolate high collagen-producing fibroblasts from SSc biopsies and extend their lifespan with hTERT immortalization to enable characterization of their phenotype. Fibroblasts from two pairs of closely matched normal and SSc biopsies were infected with an hTERT lentivirus. Infected colonies were isolated, cultured into clonal cell lines and analysed with respect to profibrotic gene expression. The mRNA levels of nine profibrotic genes were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Protein levels were assessed by Western blot. The hTERT SSc clones were heterogeneous with regards to expression of the profibrotic genes measured. A subset of the SSc clones showed elevated expression levels of collagen I, connective tissue growth factor and thrombospondin 1 mRNA, while expression of other genes was not significantly changed. Elevated expression of collagen I protein and mRNA was correlative with elevated expression of connective tissue growth factor. Several hTERT clones expressed high levels of pSmad1, Smad1 and TGF-betaRI indicative of altered TGF-beta signalling. A portion of SSc clones expressed several profibrotic genes. This study demonstrates that select characteristics of the SSc phenotype are expressed in a subset of activated fibroblasts in culture. The clonal SSc cell lines may present a new and useful model to investigate the mechanisms involved in SSc fibrosis.

HuH-7 reference genome profile: complex karyotype composed of massive loss of heterozygosity.

PubMed

Kasai, Fumio; Hirayama, Noriko; Ozawa, Midori; Satoh, Motonobu; Kohara, Arihiro

2018-05-17

Human cell lines represent a valuable resource as in vitro experimental models. A hepatoma cell line, HuH-7 (JCRB0403), has been used extensively in various research fields and a number of studies using this line have been published continuously since it was established in 1982. However, an accurate genome profile, which can be served as a reliable reference, has not been available. In this study, we performed M-FISH, SNP microarray and amplicon sequencing to characterize the cell line. Single cell analysis of metaphases revealed a high level of heterogeneity with a mode of 60 chromosomes. Cytogenetic results demonstrated chromosome abnormalities involving every chromosome in addition to a massive loss of heterozygosity, which accounts for 55.3% of the genome, consistent with the homozygous variants seen in the sequence analysis. We provide empirical data that the HuH-7 cell line is composed of highly heterogeneous cell populations, suggesting that besides cell line authentication, the quality of cell lines needs to be taken into consideration in the future use of tumor cell lines.

Tumor-associated antigen human chorionic gonadotropin beta contains numerous antigenic determinants recognized by in vitro-induced CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes.

PubMed

Dangles, Virginie; Halberstam, Ilan; Scardino, Antonio; Choppin, Jeannine; Wertheimer, Mireille; Richon, Sophie; Quelvennec, Erwann; Moirand, Romain; Guillet, Jean-Gérard; Kosmatopoulos, Kostas; Bellet, Dominique; Zeliszewski, Dominique

2002-02-01

The beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG beta) is markedly overexpressed by neoplastic cells of differing histological origin including those present in colon, breast, prostate and bladder tumors. We have previously shown that some patients with hCG beta-producing urothelial tumors have circulating T cells that proliferate in response to hCG beta. To make a comprehensive study of hCG beta as a potential target for cancer immunotherapy, we investigated whether hCG beta peptides could induce CD4+ or CD8+ T-cell responses in vitro. By stimulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from three donors with mixtures of overlapping 16-mer synthetic peptides analogous to portions of either the hCG beta 20-71 or the hCG beta 102-129 region, we established six CD4+ T-cell lines that proliferated specifically in response to five distinct determinants located within these two hCG beta regions. Three antigenic determinants (hCG beta 52-67, 106-121 and 114-125) were presented by HLA-DR molecules, while the two other antigenic determinants (hCG beta 48-63 and 56-67) were presented by HLA-DQ molecules. Interestingly, one T-cell line specific for peptide hCG beta 106-121 recognized hCG beta peptides comprising, at position 117, either an alanine or an aspartic acid residue, with the latter residue being present within the protein expressed by some tumor cells. In addition, three other hCG beta-derived peptides that exhibited HLA-A*0201 binding ability were able to stimulate CD8+ cytotoxic T cells from two HLA-A*0201 donors. These three immunogenic peptides corresponded to regions hCG beta 40-48, hCG beta 44-52 and hCG beta 75-84. Our results indicate that the tumor-associated antigen hCG beta possesses numerous antigenic determinants liable to stimulate CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, and might thus be an effective target antigen for the immunotherapy of hCG beta-producing tumors.

A Novel Dimeric Ni-Substituted beta-Keggin Silicotungstate: Structure and Magnetic Properties of K(12)[{beta-SiNi(2)W(10)O(36)(OH)(2)(H(2)O)}(2)].20H(2)O.

PubMed

Kortz, Ulrich; Jeannin, Yves P.; Tézé, André; Hervé, Gilbert; Isber, Samih

1999-08-09

The novel dimeric polyoxometalate [{beta-SiNi(2)W(10)O(36)(OH)(2)(H(2)O)}(2)](12)(-) (1) has been synthesized and characterized by IR spectroscopy, polarography, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and magnetic measurements. An X-ray single-crystal analysis was carried out on K(12)[{beta-SiNi(2)W(10)O(36)(OH)(2)(H(2)O)}(2)].20H(2)O, which crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P2(1)/n, with a = 13.701(4) Å, b = 24.448(11) Å, c = 13.995(5) Å, beta = 99.62(3) degrees, and Z = 4. The anion consists of two [beta-SiNi(2)W(10)O(36)(OH)(2)(H(2)O)] Keggin moieties linked via two OH bridging groups, leading to a planar Ni(2)(OH)(2) unit. The two half-units are related by an inversion center and each contain one Ni atom in the rotated triad. The formation of the new anion involves insertion, isomerization, and dimerization. Magnetic measurements show that the central Ni(4) unit exhibits ferromagnetic (J' = 4.14 cm(-)(1)) as well as weak antiferromagnetic (J = -0.65 cm(-)(1)) Ni-Ni exchange interactions.

Kinematical line broadening and spatially resolved line profiles from AGN.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schulz, H.; Muecke, A.; Boer, B.; Dresen, M.; Schmidt-Kaler, T.

1995-03-01

We study geometrical effects for emission-line broadening in the optically thin limit by integrating the projected line emissivity along prespecified lines of sight that intersect rotating or expanding disks or cone-like configurations. Analytical expressions are given for the case that emissivity and velocity follow power laws of the radial distance. The results help to interpret spatially resolved spectra and to check the reliability of numerical computations. In the second part we describe a numerical code applicable to any geometrical configuration. Turbulent motions, atmospheric seeing and effects induced by the size of the observing aperture are simulated with appropriate convolution procedures. An application to narrow-line Hα profiles from the central region of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 7469 is presented. The shapes and asymmetries as well as the relative strengths of the Hα lines from different spatial positions can be explained by emission from a nuclear rotating disk of ionized gas, for which the distribution of Hα line emissivity and the rotation curve are derived. Appreciable turbulent line broadening with a Gaussian σ of ~40% of the rotational velocity has to be included to obtain a satisfactory fit.

Investigation on the individual contributions of N-H...O=C and C-H...O=C interactions to the binding energies of beta-sheet models.

PubMed

Wang, Chang-Sheng; Sun, Chang-Liang

2010-04-15

In this article, the binding energies of 16 antiparallel and parallel beta-sheet models are estimated using the analytic potential energy function we proposed recently and the results are compared with those obtained from MP2, AMBER99, OPLSAA/L, and CHARMM27 calculations. The comparisons indicate that the analytic potential energy function can produce reasonable binding energies for beta-sheet models. Further comparisons suggest that the binding energy of the beta-sheet models might come mainly from dipole-dipole attractive and repulsive interactions and VDW interactions between the two strands. The dipole-dipole attractive and repulsive interactions are further obtained in this article. The total of N-H...H-N and C=O...O=C dipole-dipole repulsive interaction (the secondary electrostatic repulsive interaction) in the small ring of the antiparallel beta-sheet models is estimated to be about 6.0 kcal/mol. The individual N-H...O=C dipole-dipole attractive interaction is predicted to be -6.2 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol in the antiparallel beta-sheet models and -5.2 +/- 0.6 kcal/mol in the parallel beta-sheet models. The individual C(alpha)-H...O=C attractive interaction is -1.2 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol in the antiparallel beta-sheet models and -1.5 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol in the parallel beta-sheet models. These values are important in understanding the interactions at protein-protein interfaces and developing a more accurate force field for peptides and proteins. 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Co-culture of clonal beta cells with GLP-1 and glucagon-secreting cell line impacts on beta cell insulin secretion, proliferation and susceptibility to cytotoxins.

PubMed

Green, Alastair D; Vasu, Srividya; Moffett, R Charlotte; Flatt, Peter R

2016-06-01

We investigated the direct effects on insulin releasing MIN6 cells of chronic exposure to GLP-1, glucagon or a combination of both peptides secreted from GLUTag L-cell and αTC1.9 alpha-cell lines in co-culture. MIN6, GLUTag and αTC1.9 cell lines exhibited high cellular hormone content and release of insulin, GLP-1 and glucagon, respectively. Co-culture of MIN6 cells with GLUTag cells significantly increased cellular insulin content, beta-cell proliferation, insulin secretory responses to a range of established secretogogues and afforded protection against exposure cytotoxic concentrations of glucose, lipid, streptozotocin or cytokines. Benefits of co-culture of MIN6 cells with αTC1.9 alphacells were limited to enhanced beta-cell proliferation with marginal positive actions on both insulin secretion and cellular protection. In contrast, co-culture of MIN6 with GLUTag cells plus αTC1.9 cells, markedly enhanced both insulin secretory responses and protection against beta-cell toxins compared with co-culture with GLUTag cells alone. These data indicate important long-term effects of conjoint GLP-1 and glucagon exposure on beta-cell function. This illustrates the possible functional significance of alpha-cell GLP-1 production as well as direct beneficial effects of dual agonism at beta-cell GLP-1 and glucagon receptors. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. and Société française de biochimie et biologie Moléculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Line profile variations in M giants - Clues to mass-loss and chromospheric heating mechanisms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Judge, P. G.; Luttermoser, D. G.; Neff, D. H.; Cuntz, M.; Stencel, R. E.

1993-01-01

Analysis is presented of time-series, high dispersion spectra of the Mg II, k, Ca II H, and K lines of the semiregular giants Rho Per (M4 II-III, periodicity of about 50 days), R Lyr (M5 III, period of about 46 days), and g Her (M6 III, period of about 90 days). The fine error sensor on the IUE satellite and ground based UBV photometry was used to relate line profile variations to photospheric variations. The above mentioned stars were selected to study the relative importance of convective motions and global stellar pulsations in determining the structure of the outer atmospheres. Small amplitude changes, but substantial changes in the profiles of Mg II and Ca II lines were detected. It is contended that the observed variability is due to changes in chromospheric conditions and not variations within the circumstellar shell. The picture of a steady state chromosphere, which is modulated on long time scales, is corroborated by these observations. Localized heating is found in g Her.

Integrated analysis of drug-induced gene expression profiles predicts novel hERG inhibitors.

PubMed

Babcock, Joseph J; Du, Fang; Xu, Kaiping; Wheelan, Sarah J; Li, Min

2013-01-01

Growing evidence suggests that drugs interact with diverse molecular targets mediating both therapeutic and toxic effects. Prediction of these complex interactions from chemical structures alone remains challenging, as compounds with different structures may possess similar toxicity profiles. In contrast, predictions based on systems-level measurements of drug effect may reveal pharmacologic similarities not evident from structure or known therapeutic indications. Here we utilized drug-induced transcriptional responses in the Connectivity Map (CMap) to discover such similarities among diverse antagonists of the human ether-à-go-go related (hERG) potassium channel, a common target of promiscuous inhibition by small molecules. Analysis of transcriptional profiles generated in three independent cell lines revealed clusters enriched for hERG inhibitors annotated using a database of experimental measurements (hERGcentral) and clinical indications. As a validation, we experimentally identified novel hERG inhibitors among the unannotated drugs in these enriched clusters, suggesting transcriptional responses may serve as predictive surrogates of cardiotoxicity complementing existing functional assays.

Integrated Analysis of Drug-Induced Gene Expression Profiles Predicts Novel hERG Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Babcock, Joseph J.; Du, Fang; Xu, Kaiping; Wheelan, Sarah J.; Li, Min

2013-01-01

Growing evidence suggests that drugs interact with diverse molecular targets mediating both therapeutic and toxic effects. Prediction of these complex interactions from chemical structures alone remains challenging, as compounds with different structures may possess similar toxicity profiles. In contrast, predictions based on systems-level measurements of drug effect may reveal pharmacologic similarities not evident from structure or known therapeutic indications. Here we utilized drug-induced transcriptional responses in the Connectivity Map (CMap) to discover such similarities among diverse antagonists of the human ether-à-go-go related (hERG) potassium channel, a common target of promiscuous inhibition by small molecules. Analysis of transcriptional profiles generated in three independent cell lines revealed clusters enriched for hERG inhibitors annotated using a database of experimental measurements (hERGcentral) and clinical indications. As a validation, we experimentally identified novel hERG inhibitors among the unannotated drugs in these enriched clusters, suggesting transcriptional responses may serve as predictive surrogates of cardiotoxicity complementing existing functional assays. PMID:23936032

The (BETA) Pictoris Phenomenon Among Herbig Ae/Be Stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grady, C. A.; Perez, M. R.; Talavera, A.; Bjorkman, K. S.; deWinter, D.; The, P.-S.; Molster, F. J.; vandenAncker, M. E.; Sitko, M. L.; Morrison, N. D.;

Non-LTE profiles of the Al I autoionization lines. [for solar model atmospheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finn, G. D.; Jefferies, J. T.

1974-01-01

A non-LTE formulation is given for the transfer of radiation in the autoionizing lines of neutral aluminum at 1932 and 1936 A through both the Bilderberg and Harvard-Smithsonian model atmospheres. Numerical solutions for the common source function of these lines and their theoretical line profiles are calculated and compared with the corresponding LTE profiles. The results show that the non-LTE profiles provide a better match with the observations. They also indicate that the continuous opacity of the standard solar models should be increased in this wavelength region if the center-limb variations of observed and theoretical profiles of these lines are to be in reasonable agreement.

Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidin-5(1H)-ones as a novel series of beta isoform selective phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors.

PubMed

Lin, Hong; Erhard, Karl; Hardwicke, Mary Ann; Luengo, Juan I; Mack, James F; McSurdy-Freed, Jeanelle; Plant, Ramona; Raha, Kaushik; Rominger, Cynthia M; Sanchez, Robert M; Schaber, Michael D; Schulz, Mark J; Spengler, Michael D; Tedesco, Rosanna; Xie, Ren; Zeng, Jin J; Rivero, Ralph A

2012-03-15

A series of PI3K-beta selective inhibitors, imidazo[1,2-a]-pyrimidin-5(1H)-ones, has been rationally designed based on the docking model of the more potent R enantiomer of TGX-221, identified by a chiral separation, in a PI3K-beta homology model. Synthesis and SAR of this novel chemotype are described. Several compounds in the series demonstrated potent growth inhibition in a PTEN-deficient breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-468 under anchorage independent conditions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Proposed rocket experiments to measure the profile and intensity of the solar He1584A resonance line

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Judge, D. L.

1978-01-01

The intensity and profile of the helium resonance line at 584 A from the entire disc of the sun was investigated using a rocket-borne helium-filled spectrometer and a curve of growth technique. The line profile was found to be accurately represented by a Gaussian profile with full width at half maximum of 122 plus or minus 10m A while the integrated intensity was measured to be (2.6 plus or minus 1.3) x 10 to the 9th power/photons sec sq cm at solar levels of F sub 10.7 = 90.8 x 10 to the minus 22th power/sq m H sub z and R sub z = 27. The measured linewidth is in good agreement with previous spectrographic measurement but the integrated intensity is larger than most previous photoelectric measurements. However, the derived line center flux of (2.0 plus or minus 1.0) x 10 to the 10th power/photons sec sq cm A is in good agreement with values inferred from airglow measurements.

CS Line Profiles in Hot Cores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bayet, E.; Yates, J.; Viti, S.

2011-02-01

We present a theoretical study of CS line profiles in archetypal hot cores. We provide estimates of line fluxes from the CS(1-0) to the CS(15-14) transitions and present the temporal variation of these fluxes. We find that (1) the CS(1-0) transition is a better tracer of the Envelope of the hot core whereas the higher-J CS lines trace the ultracompact core (UCC); (2) the peak temperature of the CS transitions is a good indicator of the temperature inside the hot core; (3) in the Envelope, the older the hot core the stronger the self-absorption of CS; (4) the fractional abundance of CS is highest in the innermost parts of the UCC, confirming the CS molecule as one of the best tracers of very dense gas.

An atlas of synthetic line profiles of Planetary Nebulae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morisset, C.; Stasinska, G.

2008-04-01

We have constructed a grid of photoionization models of spherical, elliptical and bipolar planetary nebulae. Assuming different velocity fields, we have computed line profiles corresponding to different orientations, slit sizes and positions. The atlas is meant both for didactic purposes and for the interpretation of data on real nebulae. As an application, we have shown that line profiles are often degenerate, and that recovering the geometry and velocity field from observations requires lines from ions with different masses and different ionization potentials. We have also shown that the empirical way to measure mass-weighted expansion velocities from observed line widths is reasonably accurate if considering the HWHM. For distant nebulae, entirely covered by the slit, the unknown geometry and orientation do not alter the measured velocities statistically. The atlas is freely accessible from internet. The Cloudy_3D suite and the associated VISNEB tool are available on request.

Automated on-line SPE LC-MS/MS method to quantitate 6beta-hydroxycortisol and cortisol in human urine: use of the 6beta-hydroxycortisol to cortisol ratio as an indicator of CYP3A4 activity.

PubMed

Barrett, Yu Chen; Akinsanya, Billy; Chang, Shu-Ying; Vesterqvist, Ole

2005-07-25

A sensitive method for quantitation of urinary 6beta-hydroxycortisol (6beta-HC) and cortisol using on-line SPE and LC-MS/MS was developed and validated. Human urine samples were injected directly onto an on-line solid phase extraction apparatus, Prospekt-2, followed by HPLC separation and electrospray triple quadrupole LC-MS/MS detection. The inter-day precision for the 6beta-HC:cortisol ratio was 7-9%. The lower limit of quantitation was 1 and 0.2 ng/mL for 6beta-HC and cortisol, respectively. Using the method we observed a diurnal variation on the 6beta-HC:cortisol ratio in healthy volunteers with the maximal ratio observed in the 2-10 pm urine collection period.

Beta3 subunits promote expression and nicotine-induced up-regulation of human nicotinic alpha6* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors expressed in transfected cell lines.

PubMed

Tumkosit, Prem; Kuryatov, Alexander; Luo, Jie; Lindstrom, Jon

2006-10-01

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) containing alpha6 subunits are typically found at aminergic nerve endings where they play important roles in nicotine addiction and Parkinson's disease. alpha6* AChRs usually contain beta3 subunits. beta3 subunits are presumed to assemble only in the accessory subunit position within AChRs where they do not participate in forming acetylcholine binding sites. Assembly of subunits in the accessory position may be a critical final step in assembly of mature AChRs. Human alpha6 AChRs subtypes were permanently transfected into human tsA201 human embryonic kidney (HEK) cell lines. alpha6beta2beta3 and alpha6beta4beta3 cell lines were found to express much larger amounts of AChRs and were more sensitive to nicotine-induced increase in the amount of AChRs than were alpha6beta2 or alpha6beta4 cell lines. The increased sensitivity to nicotine-induced up-regulation was due not to a beta3-induced increase in affinity for nicotine but probably to a direct effect on assembly of AChR subunits. HEK cells express only a small amount of mature alpha6beta2 AChRs, but many of these subunits are on the cell surface. This contrasts with Xenopus laevis oocytes, which express a large amount of incorrectly assembled alpha6beta2 subunits that bind cholinergic ligands but form large amorphous intracellular aggregates. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were made to the alpha6 and beta3 subunits to aid in the characterization of these AChRs. The alpha6 mAbs bind to epitopes C-terminal of the extracellular domain. These data demonstrate that both cell type and the accessory subunit beta3 can play important roles in alpha6* AChR expression, stability, and up-regulation by nicotine.

The Zeeman effect or linear birefringence? VLA polarimetric spectral line observations of H2O masers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jun-Hui; Goss, W. M.; Diamond, P.

We present line profiles of the four Stokes parameters of H2O masers at 22 GHz observed with the VLA in full polarimetric spectral line mode. With careful calibration, the instrumental effects such as linear leakage and the difference of antenna gain between RCP and LCP, can be minimized. Our measurements show a few percent linear polarization. Weak circular polarization was detected at a level of 0.1 percent of the peak intensity. A large uncertainty in the measurements of weak circular polarization is caused by telescope pointing errors. The observed polarization of H2O masers can be interpreted as either the Zeeman effect or linear birefringence.

DNA methylation profiles of ovarian epithelial carcinoma tumors and cell lines.

PubMed

Houshdaran, Sahar; Hawley, Sarah; Palmer, Chana; Campan, Mihaela; Olsen, Mari N; Ventura, Aviva P; Knudsen, Beatrice S; Drescher, Charles W; Urban, Nicole D; Brown, Patrick O; Laird, Peter W

2010-02-22

Epithelial ovarian carcinoma is a significant cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide and in the United States. Epithelial ovarian cancer comprises several histological subtypes, each with distinct clinical and molecular characteristics. The natural history of this heterogeneous disease, including the cell types of origin, is poorly understood. This study applied recently developed methods for high-throughput DNA methylation profiling to characterize ovarian cancer cell lines and tumors, including representatives of three major histologies. We obtained DNA methylation profiles of 1,505 CpG sites (808 genes) in 27 primary epithelial ovarian tumors and 15 ovarian cancer cell lines. We found that the DNA methylation profiles of ovarian cancer cell lines were markedly different from those of primary ovarian tumors. Aggregate DNA methylation levels of the assayed CpG sites tended to be higher in ovarian cancer cell lines relative to ovarian tumors. Within the primary tumors, those of the same histological type were more alike in their methylation profiles than those of different subtypes. Supervised analyses identified 90 CpG sites (68 genes) that exhibited 'subtype-specific' DNA methylation patterns (FDR<1%) among the tumors. In ovarian cancer cell lines, we estimated that for at least 27% of analyzed autosomal CpG sites, increases in methylation were accompanied by decreases in transcription of the associated gene. The significant difference in DNA methylation profiles between ovarian cancer cell lines and tumors underscores the need to be cautious in using cell lines as tumor models for molecular studies of ovarian cancer and other cancers. Similarly, the distinct methylation profiles of the different histological types of ovarian tumors reinforces the need to treat the different histologies of ovarian cancer as different diseases, both clinically and in biomarker studies. These data provide a useful resource for future studies, including those of potential

ExoMol molecular line lists XIX: high-accuracy computed hot line lists for H218O and H217O

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polyansky, Oleg L.; Kyuberis, Aleksandra A.; Lodi, Lorenzo; Tennyson, Jonathan; Yurchenko, Sergei N.; Ovsyannikov, Roman I.; Zobov, Nikolai F.

2017-04-01

Hot line lists for two isotopologues of water, H218O and H217O, are presented. The calculations employ newly constructed potential energy surfaces (PES), which take advantage of a novel method for using the large set of experimental energy levels for H216O to give high-quality predictions for H218O and H217O. This procedure greatly extends the energy range for which a PES can be accurately determined, allowing an accurate prediction of higher lying energy levels than are currently known from direct laboratory measurements. This PES is combined with a high-accuracy, ab initio dipole moment surface of water in the computation of all energy levels, transition frequencies and associated Einstein A coefficients for states with rotational excitation up to J = 50 and energies up to 30 000 cm-1. The resulting HotWat78 line lists complement the well-used BT2 H216O line list. Full line lists are made available online as Supporting Information and at www.exomol.com.

The Lick AGN Monitoring Project 2011: Spectroscopic Campaign and Emission-line Light Curves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barth, Aaron J.; Bennert, Vardha N.; Canalizo, Gabriela; Filippenko, Alexei V.; Gates, Elinor L.; Greene, Jenny E..; Li, Weidong; Malkan, Matthew A.; Pancoast, Anna; Sand, David J.;

Determination of the vinyl fluoride line intensities by TDL spectroscopy: the object oriented approach of Visual Line Shape Fitting Program to line profile analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tasinato, Nicola; Pietropolli Charmet, Andrea; Stoppa, Paolo; Giorgianni, Santi

2010-03-01

In this work the self-broadening coefficients and the integrated line intensities for a number of ro-vibrational transitions of vinyl fluoride have been determined for the first time by means of TDL spectroscopy. The spectra recorded in the atmospheric window around 8.7 µm appear very crowded with a density of about 90 lines per cm-1. In order to fit these spectral features a new fitting software has been implemented. The program, which is designed for laser spectroscopy, can fit many lines simultaneously on the basis of different theoretical profiles (Doppler, Lorentz, Voigt, Galatry and Nelkin-Ghatak). Details of the object oriented implementation of the application are given. The reliability of the program is demonstrated by determining the line parameters of some ro-vibrational lines of sulphur dioxide in the ν1 band region around 9 µm. Then the software is used for the line profile analysis of vinyl fluoride. The experimental line shapes show deviations from the Voigt profile, which can be well modelled by using a Dicke narrowed line shape function. This leads to the determination of the self-narrowing coefficient within the framework of the strong collision model.

L alpha, L beta /of H I/, K and H /of MG II/, K and H /of CA II/ observations in a quiescent prominence with the OSO-8 LPSP instrument

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vial, J. C.; Martres, M. J.; Salm-Platzer, J.

1981-04-01

A sequence of images taken at different positions in the resonance lines of Ca II, Mg II, and H I was obtained over a quiescent prominence with the LPSP instrument on OSO-8. Ca II K (and H) profiles are reconstructed at different locations in the prominence with a (10 × 5) arc sec2 resolution. Significant variations of FWHM and line shifts are found: FWHM range from 0.14 Å to 0.5 Å; blue shifts reach about 14 km s-1. The ratio of K to H absolute intensities shows a large spread around the average value of 1.2. The same ratio for the Mg II lines in the whole prominence is higher (1.7), a fact already noticed at the edge of an active prominence (Vial et al., 1979). The ionization degree, as measured by the Lα/Ca K ratio, shows noticeable variations within the prominence. The La intensity is about 0.3 times the intensity measured in the quiet Sun, and the Lα/Lβ ratio is less than one half the disk value. These results indicate important variations of the thermal conditions inside the prominence.

HIFI Spectroscopy of H2O Submillimeter Lines in Nuclei of Actively Star-forming Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, L.; Weiß, A.; Perez-Beaupuits, J. P.; Güsten, R.; Liu, D.; Gao, Y.; Menten, K. M.; van der Werf, P.; Israel, F. P.; Harris, A.; Martin-Pintado, J.; Requena-Torres, M. A.; Stutzki, J.

2017-09-01

We present a systematic survey of multiple velocity-resolved H2O spectra using Herschel/Heterodyne Instrument for the Far Infrared (HIFI) toward nine nearby actively star-forming galaxies. The ground-state and low-excitation lines (E up ≤ 130 K) show profiles with emission and absorption blended together, while absorption-free medium-excitation lines (130 K ≤ E up ≤ 350 K) typically display line shapes similar to CO. We analyze the HIFI observation together with archival SPIRE/PACS H2O data using a state-of-the-art 3D radiative transfer code that includes the interaction between continuum and line emission. The water excitation models are combined with information on the dust and CO spectral line energy distribution to determine the physical structure of the interstellar medium (ISM). We identify two ISM components that are common to all galaxies: a warm ({T}{dust}˜ 40{--}70 K), dense (n({{H}})˜ {10}5{--}{10}6 {{cm}}-3) phase that dominates the emission of medium-excitation H2O lines. This gas phase also dominates the far-IR emission and the CO intensities for {J}{up}> 8. In addition, a cold ({T}{dust}˜ 20{--}30 K), dense (n({{H}})˜ {10}4{--}{10}5 {{cm}}-3), more extended phase is present. It outputs the emission in the low-excitation H2O lines and typically also produces the prominent line absorption features. For the two ULIRGs in our sample (Arp 220 and Mrk 231) an even hotter and more compact (R s ≤ 100 pc) region is present, which is possibly linked to AGN activity. We find that collisions dominate the water excitation in the cold gas and for lines with {E}{up}≤slant 300 K and {E}{up}≤slant 800 K in the warm and hot component, respectively. Higher-energy levels are mainly excited by IR pumping.

Ultraviolet imaging telescope and optical emission-line observations of H II regions in M81

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hill, Jesse K.; Cheng, K.-P.; Bohlin, Ralph C.; Cornett, Robert H.; Hintzen, P. M. N.; O'Connell, Robert W.; Roberts, Morton S.; Smith, Andrew M.; Smith, Eric P.; Stecher, Theodore P.

1995-01-01

Images of the type Sab spiral galaxy M81 were obtained in far-UV and near-UV bands by the Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UIT) during the Astro-1 Spacelab mission of 1990 December. Magnitudes in the two UV bands are determined for 52 H II regions from the catalog of Petit, Sivan, & Karachentsev (1988). Fluxes of the H-alpha and H-beta emission lines are determined from CCD images. Extinctions for the brightest H II regions are determined from observed Balmer decrements. Fainter H II regions are assigned the average of published radio-H-alpha extinctions for several bright H II regions. The radiative transfer models of Witt, Thronson, & Capuano (1992) are shown to predict a relationship between Balmer Decrement and H-alpha extinction consistent with observed line and radio fluxes for the brightest 7 H II regions and are used to estimate the UV extinction. Ratios of Lyman continuum with ratios predicted by model spectra computed for initial mass function (IMF) slope equal to -1.0 and stellar masses ranging from 5 to 120 solar mass. Ages and masses are estimated by comparing the H-alpha and far-UV fluxes and their ratio with the models. The total of the estimated stellar masses for the 52 H II regions is 1.4 x 10(exp 5) solar mass. The star-formation rate inferred for M81 from the observed UV and H-alpha fluxes is low for a spiral galaxy at approximately 0.13 solar mass/yr, but consistent with the low star-formation rates obtained by Kennicutt (1983) and Caldwell et al. (1991) for early-type spirals.

COMPLEX VARIABILITY OF THE H{alpha} EMISSION LINE PROFILE OF THE T TAURI BINARY SYSTEM KH 15D: THE INFLUENCE OF ORBITAL PHASE, OCCULTATION BY THE CIRCUMBINARY DISK, AND ACCRETION PHENOMENA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hamilton, Catrina M.; Johns-Krull, Christopher M.; Mundt, Reinhard

2012-06-01

We have obtained 48 high-resolution echelle spectra of the pre-main-sequence eclipsing binary system KH 15D (V582 Mon, P = 48.37 days, e {approx} 0.6, M{sub A} = 0.6 M{sub Sun }, M{sub B} = 0.7 M{sub Sun }). The eclipses are caused by a circumbinary disk (CBD) seen nearly edge on, which at the epoch of these observations completely obscured the orbit of star B and a large portion of the orbit of star A. The spectra were obtained over five contiguous observing seasons from 2001/2002 to 2005/2006 while star A was fully visible, fully occulted, and during several ingressmore » and egress events. The H{alpha} line profile shows dramatic changes in these time series data over timescales ranging from days to years. A fraction of the variations are due to 'edge effects' and depend only on the height of star A above or below the razor sharp edge of the occulting disk. Other observed variations depend on the orbital phase: the H{alpha} emission line profile changes from an inverse P-Cygni-type profile during ingress to an enhanced double-peaked profile, with both a blue and a red emission component, during egress. Each of these interpreted variations are complicated by the fact that there is also a chaotic, irregular component present in these profiles. We find that the complex data set can be largely understood in the context of accretion onto the stars from a CBD with gas flows as predicted by the models of eccentric T Tauri binaries put forward by Artymowicz and Lubow, Guenther and Kley, and de Val-Borro et al. In particular, our data provide strong support for the pulsed accretion phenomenon, in which enhanced accretion occurs during and after perihelion passage.« less

The effect of pH and triethanolamine on sulfisoxazole complexation with hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin.

PubMed

Gladys, Granero; Claudia, Garnero; Marcela, Longhi

2003-11-01

A novel complexation of sulfisoxazole with hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HP-beta-CD) was studied. Two systems were used: binary complexes prepared with HP-beta-CD and multicomponent system (HP-beta-CD and the basic compound triethanolamine (TEA)). Inclusion complex formation in aqueous solutions and in solid state were investigated by the solubility method, thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and dissolution studies. The solid complexes of sulfisoxazole were prepared by freeze-drying the homogeneous concentrated aqueous solutions in molar ratios of sulfisoxazole:HP-beta-CD 1:1 and 1:2, and sulfisoxazole:TEA:HP-beta-CD 1:1:2. FT-IR and thermal analysis showed differences among sulfisoxazole:HP-beta-CD and sulfisoxazole:TEA:HP-beta-CD and their corresponding physical mixtures and individual components. The HP-beta-CD solubilization of sulfisoxazole could be improved by ionization of the drug molecule through pH adjustments. However, larger improvements of the HP-beta-CD solubilization are obtained when multicomponent systems are used, allowing to reduce the amount of CD necessary to prepare the target formulation.

Involvement of H- and N-Ras isoforms in transforming growth factor-{beta}1-induced proliferation and in collagen and fibronectin synthesis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Martinez-Salgado, Carlos; Fuentes-Calvo, Isabel; Instituto 'Reina Sofia' de Investigacion Nefrologica, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca

2006-07-01

Transforming growth factor {beta}1 (TGF-{beta}1) has a relevant role in the origin and maintenance of glomerulosclerosis and tubule-interstitial fibrosis. TGF-{beta} and Ras signaling pathways are closely related: TGF-{beta}1 overcomes Ras mitogenic effects and Ras counteracts TGF-{beta} signaling. Tubule-interstitial fibrosis is associated to increases in Ras, Erk, and Akt activation in a renal fibrosis model. We study the role of N- and H-Ras isoforms, and the involvement of the Ras effectors Erk and Akt, in TGF-{beta}1-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and proliferation, using embrionary fibroblasts from double knockout (KO) mice for H- and N-Ras (H-ras {sup -/-}/N-ras {sup -/-}) isoforms andmore » from heterozygote mice (H-ras {sup +/-}/N-ras {sup +/-}). ECM synthesis is increased in basal conditions in H-ras {sup -/-}/N-ras {sup -/-} fibroblasts, this increase being higher after stimulation with TGF-{beta}1. TGF-{beta}1-induced fibroblast proliferation is smaller in H-ras {sup -/-}/N-ras {sup -/-} than in H-ras {sup +/-}/N-ras {sup +/-} fibroblasts. Erk activation is decreased in H-ras {sup -/-}/N-ras {sup -/-} fibroblasts; inhibition of Erk activation reduces fibroblast proliferation. Akt activation is higher in double KO fibroblasts than in heterozygotes; inhibition of Akt activation also inhibits ECM synthesis. We suggest that H- and N-Ras isoforms downregulate ECM synthesis, and mediate proliferation, in part through MEK/Erk activation. PI3K-Akt pathway activation may be involved in the increase in ECM synthesis observed in the absence of H- and N-Ras.« less

Asymptotic expansions of the kernel functions for line formation with continuous absorption

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hummer, D. G.

1991-01-01

Asymptotic expressions are obtained for the kernel functions M2(tau, alpha, beta) and K2(tau, alpha, beta) appearing in the theory of line formation with complete redistribution over a Voigt profile with damping parameter a, in the presence of a source of continuous opacity parameterized by beta. For a greater than 0, each coefficient in the asymptotic series is expressed as the product of analytic functions of a and eta. For Doppler broadening, only the leading term can be evaluated analytically.

Time scale variation of NV resonance line profiles of HD203064

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strantzalis, A.

2012-01-01

Hot emission star, such as Be and Oe, present many spectral lines with very complex and peculiar profiles. Therefore, we cannot find a classical distribution to fit theoretically those physical line profiles. So, many physical parameters of the regions, where spectral lines are created, are difficult to estimate. Here, in this poster paper we study the UV NV (λλ 1238.821, 1242.804 A) resonance lines of the Be star HD203064 at three different dates. We using the Gauss-Rotation model, that proposed the idea that these complex profiles consist of a number of independent Discrete or Satellite Absorption Components (DACs, SACs). Our purpose is to calculate the values of a group of physical parameters as the apparent rotational, radial, and random velocities of the thermal motions of the ions. Also the Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) and the column density, as well as the absorbed energy of the independent regions of matter, which produce the main and the satellite components of the studied spectral lines. In addition, we determine the time scale variations of the above physical parameters.

Geocoronal structure. 3. Optically thin, Doppler-broadened line profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bishop, James; Chamberlain, Joseph W.

1987-11-01

Theoretical line profiles, applicable to the analysis of geocoronal Hα prifile measurements, are presented for illustrative cases. While retaining a number of simplifications (classical exobase and diffusive equilibrium plasmasphere conditions), distinctive spectral signatures of mechanisms governing the geocorona are isolated. Examining the consequences of solar radiation pressure dynamics is the main point here. In the prototype evaporative case, radiation pressure acts to form narrow profiles via the creation of an extensive quasi-satellite component. Comparison with a simple extension of the earlier analytic theory discloses the influence of an exopause in this regard. The main modifications to evaporative spectral shapes in the geocoronal application, for shadow heights greater than 2 RE, are predicted to be (1) a blueward ``shift'' or bias near line center, for look directions parallel to the antisolar axis, generated by loss mechanisms acting over the time of flight of exospheric constituents (for example, solar ionization) and (2) an enhanced redward wing at spectral displacements exceeding that defined by the shadow height escape speed, produced by plasmaspheric charge exchange collisions. Implications of these results for recent observations of geocoronal Hα line profiles are briefly discussed.

Non-LTE profiles of strong solar lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneeberger, T. J.; Beebe, H. A.

1976-01-01

The complete linearization method is applied to the formation of strong lines in the solar atmosphere. Transitions in Na(I), Mg(I), Ca(I), Mg(II), and Ca(II) are computed with a standard atmosphere and microturbulent velocity model. The computed profiles are compared to observations at disk center.

PRESSURE SHIFT AND GRAVITATIONAL REDSHIFT OF BALMER LINES IN WHITE DWARFS: REDISCUSSION

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Halenka, Jacek; Olchawa, Wieslaw; Madej, Jerzy

2015-08-01

The Stark-induced shift and asymmetry, the so-called pressure shift (PS) of H{sub α} and H{sub β} Balmer lines in spectra of DA white dwarfs (WDs), have been examined in detail as masking effects in measurements of the gravitational redshift in WDs. The results are compared with our earlier ones from a quarter of a century ago. In these earlier papers, the standard, symmetrical Stark line profiles, as a dominant constituent of the Balmer line profiles but shifted as a whole by the PS effect, were applied to all spectrally active layers of the WD atmosphere. At present, in each ofmore » the WD layers, the Stark line profiles (especially of H{sub β}) are inherently asymmetrical and shifted due to the effects of strong inhomogeneity of the perturbing fields in plasma. To calculate the Stark line profiles in successive layers of the WD atmosphere we used the modified Full Computer Simulation Method, able to take adequately into account the complexity of local elementary quantum processes in plasma. In the case of the H{sub α} line, the present value of Stark-induced shift of the synthetic H{sub α} line profile is about half the previous one and it is negligible in comparison with the gravitational redshift. In the case of the H{sub β} line, the present value of Stark-induced shift of the synthetic H{sub β} line profile is about twice the previous one. The source of this extra shift is the asymmetry of H{sub β} peaks.« less

Observations and analysis of O(1D) and NH2 line profiles for the coma of comet P/Halley

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smyth, William H.; Combi, Michael R.; Roesler, Fred L.; Scherb, Frank

1995-01-01

A set of high-resolution Fabry-Perot measurements of the coma of comet P/Halley was acquired in the (O I) 6300 A and NH2 6298.62 A emission lines. These high-resolution measurements provide the first optical observations capable of studying directly the photochemical kinetics and dynamic outflow of the coma. The observations were analyzed by a Monte Carlo Particle Trajectory Model. The agreement of the model and observed line profiles was excellent and verified the underlying dynamics, exothermic photodissociative chemistry, and collisional thermalization in the coma. The somewhat wider intrinsic line profile width for the O(1D) emission in 1986 January compared to 1986 May, is, for example, produced by the larger outflow speeds and gas temperatures nearer perihelion in January. The January O(1D) profile, which is wider than the January NH2 profile, is indicative of the photochemical kinetics in the dissociation of the parent molecules H2O and OH in the coma. The absolute calibration of the observations in 1986 January allowed the production rates for H2O and the NH2-parent molecules to be determined. The average daily water production rates derived from the O(1D) emission data for January 16 and 17 are presented. These very large water production rates are consistent with the extrapolated (and 7.6 day time variable) water production rates determined from the analysis of lower spectral resolution observations for O(1D) and H-alpha emissions that covered the time period up to January 13. The large production rates on January 16 and 17 establish that the maximum water production rate for comet Halley accurred pre-perihelion in January. Implications drawn from comparison with 18 cm radio emission data in January suggest that the peak water production rate was even larger. The average production rate for NH3 determined from the NH2 emission data for January 17 was (1.48 +/- 0.10) x 10(exp 28) molecules/s, yielding an NH3/H2O production rate ratio of 0.55%.

Universal Representation of the H-like Spectral Line Shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bureyeva, L.

2009-05-01

A universal approach for the calculation of Rydberg atom line shapes in plasmas is developed. It is based on analytical formulas for the intensity distribution in radiation transitions n→n' between highly excited atomic states with large values of principal quantum numbers n, n'≫1, with Δ n = n-n'≪n, and on the Frequency Fluctuation Model (FFM) to account of electron and ion thermal motion effects. The theory allows to describe a transition from the static to the impact broadening domains for every hydrogen spectral line. A new approach to extremely fast line shape calculations with account of charged particle dynamic effect was proposed. The approach is based on the close analogy between the static-impact broadening transition in the spectral line shape theory and the Doppler-Lorentz broadening in the Dicke narrowing effect theory. The precision of the new approach was tested by the comparison of hydrogen-alpha and beta line shapes calculations with the FFM results. The excellent agreement was discovered, the computer time decreased two orders of magnitudes as compared with the FFM.

TGF-beta1 inhibits expression and activity of hENT1 in a nitric oxide-dependent manner in human umbilical vein endothelium.

PubMed

Vega, José L; Puebla, Carlos; Vásquez, Rodrigo; Farías, Marcelo; Alarcón, Julio; Pastor-Anglada, Marçal; Krause, Bernardo; Casanello, Paola; Sobrevia, Luis

2009-06-01

We studied whether transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) modulates human equilibrative nucleoside transporters 1 (hENT1) expression and activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). hENT1-mediated adenosine transport and expression are reduced in gestational diabetes and hyperglycaemia, conditions associated with increased synthesis and release of nitric oxide (NO) and TGF-beta1 in this cell type. TGF-beta1 increases NO synthesis via activation of TGF-beta receptor type II (TbetaRII), and NO inhibits hENT1 expression and activity in HUVECs. HUVECs (passage 2) were used for experiments. Total and hENT1-mediated adenosine transport was measured in the absence or presence of TGF-beta1, NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, NO synthase inhibitor), S-nitroso-N-acetyl-L,D-penicillamine (SNAP, NO donor), and/or KT-5823 (protein kinase G inhibitor) in control cells and cells expressing a truncated form of TGF-beta1 receptor type II (TTbetaRII). Western blot and real-time PCR were used to determine hENT1 protein abundance and mRNA expression. SLC29A1 gene promoter and specific protein 1 (Sp1) transcription factor activity was assayed. Vascular reactivity was assayed in endothelium-intact or -denuded umbilical vein rings. TGF-beta1 reduced hENT1-mediated adenosine transport, hENT1 protein abundance, hENT1 mRNA expression, and SLC29A1 gene promoter activity, but increased Sp1 binding to DNA. TGF-beta1 effect was blocked by L-NAME and KT-5823 and mimicked by SNAP in control cells. However, TGF-beta1 was ineffective in cells expressing TTbetaRII or a mutated Sp1 consensus sequence. Vasodilatation in response to TGF-beta1 and S-(4-nitrobenzyl)-6-thio-inosine (an ENT inhibitor) was endothelium-dependent and blocked by KT-5823 and ZM-241385. hENT1 is down-regulated by activation of TbetaRII by TGF-beta1 in HUVECs, a phenomenon where NO and Sp1 play key roles. These findings comprise physiological mechanisms that could be important in diseases where TGF-beta

Magnetospheric accretion models for T Tauri stars. 1: Balmer line profiles without rotation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartmann, Lee; Hewett, Robert; Calvet, Nuria

1994-01-01

We argue that the strong emission lines of T Tauri stars are generally produced in infalling envelopes. Simple models of infall constrained to a dipolar magnetic field geometry explain many peculiarities of observed line profiles that are difficult, if not impossible, to reproduce with wind models. Radiative transfer effects explain why certain lines can appear quite symmetric while other lines simultaneously exhibit inverse P Cygni profiles, without recourse to complicated velocity fields. The success of the infall models in accounting for qualitative features of observed line profiles supports the proposal that stellar magnetospheres disrupt disk accretion in T Tauri stars, that true boundary layers are not usually present in T Tauri stars, and that the observed 'blue veiling' emission arises from the base of the magnetospheric accretion column.

Calbindin-D(28k) controls [Ca(2+)](i) and insulin release. Evidence obtained from calbindin-d(28k) knockout mice and beta cell lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sooy, K.; Schermerhorn, T.; Noda, M.; Surana, M.; Rhoten, W. B.; Meyer, M.; Fleischer, N.; Sharp, G. W.; Christakos, S.

1999-01-01

The role of the calcium-binding protein, calbindin-D(28k) in potassium/depolarization-stimulated increases in the cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and insulin release was investigated in pancreatic islets from calbindin-D(28k) nullmutant mice (knockouts; KO) or wild type mice and beta cell lines stably transfected and overexpressing calbindin. Using single islets from KO mice and stimulation with 45 mM KCl, the peak of [Ca(2+)](i) was 3.5-fold greater in islets from KO mice compared with wild type islets (p < 0.01) and [Ca(2+)](i) remained higher during the plateau phase. In addition to the increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in response to KCl there was also a significant increase in insulin release in islets isolated from KO mice. Evidence for modulation by calbindin of [Ca(2+)](i) and insulin release was also noted using beta cell lines. Rat calbindin was stably expressed in betaTC-3 and betaHC-13 cells. In response to depolarizing concentrations of K(+), insulin release was decreased by 45-47% in calbindin expressing betaTC cells and was decreased by 70-80% in calbindin expressing betaHC cells compared with insulin release from vector transfected betaTC or betaHC cells (p < 0.01). In addition, the K(+)-stimulated intracellular calcium peak was markedly inhibited in calbindin expressing betaHC cells compared with vector transfected cells (225 nM versus 1,100 nM, respectively). Buffering of the depolarization-induced rise in [Ca(2+)](i) was also observed in calbindin expressing betaTC cells. In summary, our findings, using both isolated islets from calbindin-D(28k) KO mice and beta cell lines, establish a role for calbindin in the modulation of depolarization-stimulated insulin release and suggest that calbindin can control the rate of insulin release via regulation of [Ca(2+)](i).

Fibronectin regulates the activation of THP-1 cells by TGF-beta1.

PubMed

Wang, A C; Fu, L

2001-03-01

To determine how fibronectin regulates the immunomodulatory effects of transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta on THP-1 cells. THP-1 monocytic cell line. THP-1 cells were primed for 48 h in the presence or absence of 250 pM TGF-beta1. Assays or assessments carried out, together with statistical test applied. We found that adherence to fibronectin dramatically modulates the effects of TGF-beta1 on the human monocytic cell line THP-1. TGF-beta did not significantly affect constitutive interleukin (IL)-8 secretion or IL-1beta-induced IL-8 secretion from suspended cells. In contrast, TGF-beta stimulated IL-8 secretion as well as augmented IL-1beta-induced IL-8 secretion from adherent cells. The differential effects of TGF-beta1 on IL-8 secretion from suspended and adherent cells could not be explained by differences in IL-1 receptor antagonist production. The effects of fibronectin on TGF-beta1 induced IL-8 secretion from THP-1 cells were mimicked by adhesion to immobilized anti-a4beta1 integrin antibody and to a fibronectin fragment containing the CS-1 domain. These results indicate that alpha4beta1-mediated adhesion to fibronectin may play a key role during inflammation by profoundly influencing the effects of TGF-beta1 on monocytes.

Fundamental Parameters Line Profile Fitting in Laboratory Diffractometers

PubMed Central

Cheary, R. W.; Coelho, A. A.; Cline, J. P.

2004-01-01

The fundamental parameters approach to line profile fitting uses physically based models to generate the line profile shapes. Fundamental parameters profile fitting (FPPF) has been used to synthesize and fit data from both parallel beam and divergent beam diffractometers. The refined parameters are determined by the diffractometer configuration. In a divergent beam diffractometer these include the angular aperture of the divergence slit, the width and axial length of the receiving slit, the angular apertures of the axial Soller slits, the length and projected width of the x-ray source, the absorption coefficient and axial length of the sample. In a parallel beam system the principal parameters are the angular aperture of the equatorial analyser/Soller slits and the angular apertures of the axial Soller slits. The presence of a monochromator in the beam path is normally accommodated by modifying the wavelength spectrum and/or by changing one or more of the axial divergence parameters. Flat analyzer crystals have been incorporated into FPPF as a Lorentzian shaped angular acceptance function. One of the intrinsic benefits of the fundamental parameters approach is its adaptability any laboratory diffractometer. Good fits can normally be obtained over the whole 20 range without refinement using the known properties of the diffractometer, such as the slit sizes and diffractometer radius, and emission profile. PMID:27366594

Kinetic Energy Distribution of H(2p) Atoms from Dissociative Excitation of H2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ajello, Joseph M.; Ahmed, Syed M.; Kanik, Isik; Multari, Rosalie

1995-01-01

The kinetic energy distribution of H(2p) atoms resulting from electron impact dissociation of H2 has been measured for the first time with uv spectroscopy. A high resolution uv spectrometer was used for the measurement of the H Lyman-alpha emission line profiles at 20 and 100 eV electron impact energies. Analysis of the deconvolved 100 eV line profile reveals the existence of a narrow line peak and a broad pedestal base. Slow H(2p) atoms with peak energy near 80 meV produce the peak profile, which is nearly independent of impact energy. The wings of H Lyman-alpha arise from dissociative excitation of a series of doubly excited Q(sub 1) and Q(sub 2) states, which define the core orbitals. The fast atom energy distribution peaks at 4 eV.

The effect of TGF-beta2 on MMP-2 production and activity in highly metastatic human bladder carcinoma cell line 5637.

PubMed

Dehnavi, Ehsan; Soheili, Zahra-Soheila; Samiei, Shahram; Ataei, Zahra; Aryan, Hajar

2009-06-01

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily regulates matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), which intrinsically regulate various cell behaviors leading to metastasis. We investigated the effect of TGF-beta(2) on MMP-2 regulation in human bladder carcinoma cell line 5637. Zymography, ELISA, and real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that TGF-beta(2) stimulated MMP-2 production, but the transcription of its gene remained unchanged. Wortmannin could not inhibit MMP-2 secretion and activity and conversely the amount of the protein and its enzymatic activity were increased. These data suggest that TGF-beta(2) increased MMP-2 at the posttranscriptional level and this upregulation was independent of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathway.

Size–strain separation in diffraction line profile analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Scardi, P.; Ermrich, M.; Fitch, A.

Separation of size and strain effects on diffraction line profiles has been studied in a round robin involving laboratory instruments and synchrotron radiation beamlines operating with different radiation, optics, detectors and experimental configurations. The studied sample, an extensively ball milled iron alloy powder, provides an ideal test case, as domain size broadening and strain broadening are of comparable size. The high energy available at some synchrotron radiation beamlines provides the best conditions for an accurate analysis of the line profiles, as the size–strain separation clearly benefits from a large number of Bragg peaks in the pattern; high counts, reliable intensitymore » values in low-absorption conditions, smooth background and data collection at different temperatures also support the possibility to include diffuse scattering in the analysis, for the most reliable assessment of the line broadening effect. However, results of the round robin show that good quality information on domain size distribution and microstrain can also be obtained using standard laboratory equipment, even when patterns include relatively few Bragg peaks, provided that the data are of good quality in terms of high counts and low and smooth background.« less

Size–strain separation in diffraction line profile analysis

DOE PAGES

Scardi, P.; Ermrich, M.; Fitch, A.; ...

2018-05-29

Separation of size and strain effects on diffraction line profiles has been studied in a round robin involving laboratory instruments and synchrotron radiation beamlines operating with different radiation, optics, detectors and experimental configurations. The studied sample, an extensively ball milled iron alloy powder, provides an ideal test case, as domain size broadening and strain broadening are of comparable size. The high energy available at some synchrotron radiation beamlines provides the best conditions for an accurate analysis of the line profiles, as the size–strain separation clearly benefits from a large number of Bragg peaks in the pattern; high counts, reliable intensitymore » values in low-absorption conditions, smooth background and data collection at different temperatures also support the possibility to include diffuse scattering in the analysis, for the most reliable assessment of the line broadening effect. However, results of the round robin show that good quality information on domain size distribution and microstrain can also be obtained using standard laboratory equipment, even when patterns include relatively few Bragg peaks, provided that the data are of good quality in terms of high counts and low and smooth background.« less

N(h) profile data at World Data Centers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, J. H.; Conkright, R.; Bilitza, D.; Feldstein, A. IA.; Willis, D. M.

1990-01-01

The data base for ionospheric electron density profiles at the World Data Centers is assessed. Past and future N(h) profiling from ionograms and profiles from incoherent scatter radar measurements are considered.

Hb Molfetta [beta126(H4)Val-->Leu, GTG-->CTG]: a new, silent, neutral beta chain variant found in an Italian woman.

PubMed

Qualtieri, Antonio; Le, Pera Maria; Pedace, Vera; Magariello, Angela; Brancati, Carlo

2002-02-01

We have identified a new neutral hemoglobin variant in a pregnant Italian woman, that resulted from a GTG-->CTG replacement at codon 126 of the beta chain, corresponding to a Val-->Leu amino acid change at position beta126(H4). Thermal and isopropanol stability tests were normal and there were no abnormal clinical features. Routine electrophoretic and ion exchange chromatographic methods for hemoglobin separation failed to show this variant, but reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography revealed an abnormal peak eluting near the normal beta chain. No abnormal tryptic peptide was revealed on the high performance liquid chromatographic elution pattern of the total globin digest. The mutation was determined at the DNA level by amplification of the three beta exons by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing of one exon that showed an abnormal migration on single strand conformational polymorphism analysis.

In vitro and ex vivo distribution of [3H]harmane, an endogenous beta-carboline, in rat brain.

PubMed

Anderson, Neil J; Tyacke, Robin J; Husbands, Stephen M; Nutt, David J; Hudson, Alan L; Robinson, Emma S J

2006-03-01

The endogenous beta-carboline, harmane, has been shown to bind to monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) and a separate, high affinity, non-MAO site. Research in our laboratory has shown that harmane is an active component of clonidine-displacing substance (CDS), the proposed endogenous ligand for imidazoline binding sites (IBS). In the present study we have investigated the distribution of [3H]harmane in rat brain, and related the binding profile to the distribution of the MAO-A selective ligand [3H]Ro41-1049 and the I2BS ligand [3H]2-BFI. The in vivo distribution of [3H]harmane following intravenous administration was also investigated. Receptor autoradiography revealed a highly significant correlation for the distribution of [3H]harmane and [3H]Ro41-1049, and a significant correlation for [3H]harmane and the I2BS ligand [3H]2-BFI. The in vivo distribution of [3H]harmane suggests that the ligand accumulates in the adrenal gland and throughout the brain with the primary route of excretion occurring via the duodenum. In conclusion, these studies have shown that [3H]harmane labels a population of binding sites that reflect the distribution of MAO-A. Further evidence for a non-MAO, IBS [3H]harmane population has not been shown but the high level of expression of the MAO-A site is likely to have masked the much smaller population of I2BS.

GSK-3Beta-Dependent Activation of GEF-H1/ROCK Signaling Promotes LPS-Induced Lung Vascular Endothelial Barrier Dysfunction and Acute Lung Injury.

PubMed

Yi, Lei; Huang, Xiaoqin; Guo, Feng; Zhou, Zengding; Chang, Mengling; Huan, Jingning

2017-01-01

The bacterial endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leads to the extensive vascular endothelial cells (EC) injury under septic conditions. Guanine nucleotide exchange factor-H1 (GEF-H1)/ROCK signaling not only involved in LPS-induced overexpression of pro-inflammatory mediator in ECs but also implicated in LPS-induced endothelial hyper-permeability. However, the mechanisms behind LPS-induced GEF-H1/ROCK signaling activation in the progress of EC injury remain incompletely understood. GEF-H1 localized on microtubules (MT) and is suppressed in its MT-bound state. MT disassembly promotes GEF-H1 release from MT and stimulates downstream ROCK-specific GEF activity. Since glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3beta) participates in regulating MT dynamics under pathologic conditions, we examined the pivotal roles for GSK-3beta in modulating LPS-induced activation of GEF-H1/ROCK, increase of vascular endothelial permeability and severity of acute lung injury (ALI). In this study, we found that LPS induced human pulmonary endothelial cell (HPMEC) monolayers disruption accompanied by increase in GSK-3beta activity, activation of GEF-H1/ROCK signaling and decrease in beta-catenin and ZO-1 expression. Inhibition of GSK-3beta reduced HPMEC monolayers hyper-permeability and GEF-H1/ROCK activity in response to LPS. GSK-3beta/GEF-H1/ROCK signaling is implicated in regulating the expression of beta-catenin and ZO-1. In vivo , GSK-3beta inhibition attenuated LPS-induced activation of GEF-H1/ROCK pathway, lung edema and subsequent ALI. These findings present a new mechanism of GSK-3beta-dependent exacerbation of lung micro-vascular hyper-permeability and escalation of ALI via activation of GEF-H1/ROCK signaling and disruption of intracellular junctional proteins under septic condition.

Low Temperature Flux Growth of 2H-SiC and Beta-Gallium Oxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, N. B.; Choa, Fow-Sen; Su, Ching-Hua; Arnold, Bradley; Kelly, Lisa

2016-01-01

We present brief overview of our study on the low temperature flux growth of two very important novel wide bandgap materials 2H-SiC and Beta-gallium oxide (Beta-Ga2O3). We have synthesized and grown 5 millimeter to 1 centimeter size single crystals of Beta-gallium oxide (Beta-Ga2O3). We used a flux and semi wet method to grow transparent good quality crystals. In the semi-wet method Ga2O3 was synthesized with starting gallium nitrate solution and urea as a nucleation agent. In the flux method we used tin and other metallic flux. This crystal was placed in an alumina crucible and temperature was raised above 1050 degrees Centigrade. After a time period of thirty hours, we observed prismatic and needle shaped crystals of gallium oxide. Scanning electron microscopic studies showed step growth morphology. Crystal was polished to measure the properties. Bandgap was measured 4.7electronvolts using the optical absorption curve. Another wide bandgap hexagonal 2H-SiC was grown by using Si-Al eutectic flux in the graphite crucible. We used slight AlN also as the impurity in the flux. The temperature was raised up to 1050 degrees Centigrade and slowly cooled to 850 degrees Centigrade. Preliminary characterization results of this material are also reported.

H2O2 recycling during oxidation of the arylglycerol beta-aryl ether lignin structure by lignin peroxidase and glyoxal oxidase.

PubMed

Hammel, K E; Mozuch, M D; Jensen, K A; Kersten, P J

1994-11-15

Oxidative C alpha-C beta cleavage of the arylglycerol beta-aryl ether lignin model 1-(3,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-2-phenoxypropane-1,3-diol (I) by Phanerochaete chrysosporium lignin peroxidase in the presence of limiting H2O2 was enhanced 4-5-fold by glyoxal oxidase from the same fungus. Further investigation showed that each C alpha-C beta cleavage reaction released 0.8-0.9 equiv of glycolaldehyde, a glyoxal oxidase substrate. The identification of glycolaldehyde was based on 13C NMR spectrometry of reaction product obtained from beta-, gamma-, and beta,gamma-13C-substituted I, and quantitation was based on an enzymatic NADH-linked assay. The oxidation of glycolaldehyde by glyoxal oxidase yielded 0.9 oxalate and 2.8 H2O2 per reaction, as shown by quantitation of oxalate as 2,3-dihydroxyquinoxaline after derivatization with 1,2-diaminobenzene and by quantitation of H2O2 in coupled spectrophotometric assays with veratryl alcohol and lignin peroxidase. These results suggest that the C alpha-C beta cleavage of I by lignin peroxidase in the presence of glyoxal oxidase should regenerate as many as 3 H2O2. Calculations based on the observed enhancement of LiP-catalyzed C alpha-C beta cleavage by glyoxal oxidase showed that approximately 2 H2O2 were actually regenerated per cleavage of I when both enzymes were present. The cleavage of arylglycerol beta-aryl ether structures by ligninolytic enzymes thus recycles H2O2 to support subsequent cleavage reactions.

RNA-seq reveals distinctive RNA profiles of small extracellular vesicles from different human liver cancer cell lines.

PubMed

Berardocco, Martina; Radeghieri, Annalisa; Busatto, Sara; Gallorini, Marialucia; Raggi, Chiara; Gissi, Clarissa; D'Agnano, Igea; Bergese, Paolo; Felsani, Armando; Berardi, Anna C

2017-10-10

Liver cancer (LC) is one of the most common cancers and represents the third highest cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Extracellular vesicle (EVs) cargoes, which are selectively enriched in RNA, offer great promise for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of LC. Our study analyzed the RNA cargoes of EVs derived from 4 liver-cancer cell lines: HuH7, Hep3B, HepG2 (hepato-cellular carcinoma) and HuH6 (hepatoblastoma), generating two different sets of sequencing libraries for each. One library was size-selected for small RNAs and the other targeted the whole transcriptome. Here are reported genome wide data of the expression level of coding and non-coding transcripts, microRNAs, isomiRs and snoRNAs providing the first comprehensive overview of the extracellular-vesicle RNA cargo released from LC cell lines. The EV-RNA expression profiles of the four liver cancer cell lines share a similar background, but cell-specific features clearly emerge showing the marked heterogeneity of the EV-cargo among the individual cell lines, evident both for the coding and non-coding RNA species.

Specific radioimmunoassay for human. beta. -lipotropin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jeffcoate, W.J.; Rees, L.H.; Lowry, P.J.

1978-07-01

A homologous RIA for human ..beta..-lipotropin (..beta..hLPH) has been developed. At a final dilution of 1:24,000, the antiserum employed shows cross-reaction with ..beta..hLPH but none with human ..beta..-MSH (..beta..hMSH), and it is concluded that the antigenic determinant lies within the N-terminal 1 to 36 region of ..beta..hLPH. With extraction of 3-ml plasma samples, the assay is sufficiently sensitive to measure circulating ..beta..hLPH levels in normal individuals at 0900 h (25 to 200 pg/ml). There is a circadian variation with levels falling to (less than 20 to 80 pg/ml) at 2300 h. ..beta..hLPH levels rise after metyrapone and after insulin-induced hypoglycemia,more » and fall after administration of dexamethasone. In patients with a variety of diseases of the pituitary-adrenal axis, levels of ..beta..hLPH follow immunoreactive ACTH levels, although the two are not always secreted on a 1:1 molar basis.« less

MafK/NF-E2 p18 is required for beta-globin genes activation by mediating the proximity of LCR and active beta-globin genes in MEL cell line.

PubMed

Du, Mei-Jun; Lv, Xiang; Hao, De-Long; Zhao, Guo-Wei; Wu, Xue-Song; Wu, Feng; Liu, De-Pei; Liang, Chih-Chuan

2008-01-01

Evidences indicate that locus control region (LCR) of beta-globin spatially closes to the downstream active gene promoter to mediate the transcriptional activation by looping. DNA binding proteins may play an important role in the looping formation. NF-E2 is one of the key transcription factors in beta-globin gene transcriptional activation. To shed light on whether NF-E2 is involved in this process, DS19MafKsiRNA cell pools were established by specifically knocked down the expression of MafK/NF-E2 p18, one subunit of NF-E2 heterodimer. In the above cell pools, it was observed that the occupancy efficiency of NF-E2 on beta-globin gene locus and the expression level of beta-globin genes were decreased. H3 acetylation, H3-K4 methylation and the deposition of RNA polymerase II, but not the recruitment of GATA-1, were also found reduced at the beta-globin gene cluster. Chromosome Conformation Capture (3C) assay showed that the cross-linking frequency between the main NF-E2 binding site HS2 and downstream structural genes was reduced compared to the normal cell. This result demonstrated that MafK/NF-E2 p18 recruitment was involved in the physical proximity of LCR and active beta-globin genes upon beta-globin gene transcriptional activation.

Line profiles and turbulence generated by acoustic waves in the solar chromosphere. II - Contours of the Ca II and Mg II K lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shine, R. A.; Oster, L.

1973-01-01

Making use of the time-averaged absorption profiles derived by Oster and Ulmschneider, non-LTE line formation in the context of a two-level atom is investigated for an isothermal atmosphere and for the Ca II and Mg II K lines in the solar chromosphere as represented by the Harvard-Smithsonian Reference Atmosphere. Source functions and emergent line profiles are computed for a variety of assumptions concerning the acoustically broadened profiles and the solar velocity fields.

Maternal serum free beta-hCG and PAPP-A in fetal sex chromosome defects in the first trimester.

PubMed

Spencer, K; Tul, N; Nicolaides, K H

2000-05-01

We have studied maternal serum free beta-hCG and PAPP-A, and fetal nuchal translucency (NT) in a series of 46 cases of fetal Turner's syndrome, 13 cases of other sex chromosomal anomalies and compared these with 947 control pregnancies in the first trimester. In cases of Turner's syndrome (45,X) the median fetal NT was significantly higher than in controls (4.76 MoM), the median PAPP-A was significantly lower (0.49 MoM), whilst the free beta-hCG was not significantly different (1.11 MoM). For NT, 93% (43/46) of cases were equal to or greater than the 95th centile of controls, for PAPP-A 35% (16/46) of cases were less than or equal to the 5th centile of controls and for free beta-hCG 15% (7/46) of cases were equal to or greater than the 95th centile of controls. For other sex chromosomal anomalies (47XXX, XXY, XYY) the median NT was increased (2.07 MoM) whilst PAPP-A was not significantly decreased (0.88 MoM) and free beta-hCG was not significantly different (1.07 MoM) from controls. Using a previously derived multivariate risk algorithm for trisomy 21, incorporating NT, PAPP-A, free beta-hCG and maternal age, 96% of the Turner's cases and 62% of the other sex chromosomal anomalies would have been identified. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The region of formation of the ultraviolet high temperature resonance lines in the eclipsing binary Beta Persei (Algol)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandi, E.; Garcia, L. G.; Kondo, Y.; Sahade, J.

1989-01-01

A new series of IUE observations of Beta Persei has shown that the high temperature resonance lines of Si IV and C IV arise in a region that surrounds the brighter, early-type component of the system. The continuum spectrum corresponds to that of a B8V object, and the value of E(B-V) that yielded the best match between the two IUE regions was 0.06, the value quoted for Beta Per in Jamar et al.'s (1976) Catalog.

High LET Radiation Can Enhance TGF(Beta) Induced EMT and Cross-Talk with ATM Pathways

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Minli; Hada, Megumi; Huff, Janice; Pluth, Janice M.; Anderson, Janniffer; ONeill, Peter; Cucinotta, Francis A.

2010-01-01

The TGF(Beta) pathway has been shown to regulate or directly interact with the ATM pathway in the response to radiation in mammary epithelial cells. We investigated possible interactions between the TGF(Beta) and ATM pathways following simulated space radiation using hTERT immortalized human esophageal epithelial cells (EPC-hTERT), mink lung epithelial cells (Mv1lu), and several human fibroblast cell lines. TGF(Beta) is a key modulator of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), important in cancer progression and metastasis. The implication of EMT by radiation also has several lines of developing evidence, however is poorly understood. The identification of TGF(Beta) induced EMT can be shown in changes to morphology, related gene over expression or down regulation, which can be detected by RT-PCR, and immunostaining and western blotting. In this study, we have observed morphologic and molecular alternations consistent with EMT after Mv1lu cells were treated with TGF(Beta) High LET radiation enhanced TGF(Beta) mediated EMT with a dose as low as 0.1Gy. In order to consider the TGF(Beta) interaction with ATM we used a potent ATM inhibitor Ku55933 and investigated gene expression changes and Smad signaling kinetics. Ku559933 was observed to reverse TGF(Beta) induced EMT, while this was not observed in dual treated cells (radiation+TGF(Beta)). In EPC-hTERT cells, TGF(Beta) alone was not able to induce EMT after 3 days of application. A combined treatment with high LET, however, significantly caused the alteration of EMT markers. To study the function of p53 in the process of EMT, we knocked down P53 through RNA interference. Morphology changes associated with EMT were observed in epithelial cells with silenced p53. Our study indicates: high LET radiation can enhance TGF(Beta) induced EMT; while ATM is triggering the process of TGF(Beta)-induced EMT, p53 might be an essential repressor for EMT phenotypes.

Contribution of oligosaccharides to protection of the H,K-ATPase beta-subunit against trypsinolysis.

PubMed

Crothers, James M; Asano, Shinji; Kimura, Tohru; Yoshida, Ayumi; Wong, Aline; Kang, Jung Wook; Forte, John G

2004-08-01

The proton-pumping H+,K+-adenosinetriphosphatase (H,K-ATPase), responsible for acid secretion by the gastric parietal cell, faces a harshly acidic environment, with some pepsin from neighboring chief cells, at its luminal surface. Its large catalytic alpha-subunit is mostly oriented cytoplasmically. The smaller beta-subunit (HKbeta), is mainly extracellular, with one transmembrane domain and a small cytoplasmic domain. Seven N-linked oligosaccharides in the extracellular domain of HKbeta are thought to contribute to protection of the H,K-ATPase, since previous work has shown that their complete removal, by peptide N-glycosidase F (PNGase F), greatly increased susceptibility of HKbeta to proteolysis. The possibility of graded protection by different numbers of oligosaccharides was investigated here with the use of mutant HKbeta cDNA, having various N-glycosylation sites mutated (Asn to Gln), transfected into HEK-293 cells. Membrane preparations, two days after transfection, were solubilized in 1% Triton X-100 and subjected to trypsinolysis (pH 8, 37 degrees C, trypsin:protein 1:10-1:25). Relative amounts of HKbeta remaining after 20 min trypsin were determined, after sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and probing of Western blots with an antibody to the HKbeta extracellular domain, by chemiluminescent development of blots and densitometry of resulting films. Maturely glycosylated HKbeta was made significantly more susceptible to trypsin than wild type when at least five oligosaccharides were deleted, while the high-mannose form (pre-beta), from the endoplasmic reticulum, became significantly more susceptible than wild-type pre-beta with removal of only two or more oligosaccharides. For each mutant, and wild type, pre-beta was consistently more susceptible than the mature form. While the number, and kind, of oligosaccharides seem to affect protection for HKbeta against trypsinolysis, other aspects of protein maturation, including

Spectral characteristics of ortho, meta and para dihydroxy benzenes in different solvents, pH and beta-cyclodextrin.

PubMed

Stalin, T; Devi, R Anitha; Rajendiran, N

2005-09-01

Spectral characteristics of ortho, meta and para dihydroxy benzenes (DHB's) have been studied in different solvents, pH and beta-cyclodextrin. Solvent study shows that: (i) the interaction of OH group with the aromatic ring is less than that of amino group both in the ground and excited states, (ii) in absorption, the charge transfer interaction of OH group in para position is larger than ortho and meta positions. pH studies reveals that DHB's are more acidic than phenol. The higher pK(a) value of oDHB (monoanion-dianion) indicates that the formed monoanion is more stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonding. DHB's forms a 1:1 inclusion complex with beta-CD. In beta-CD medium, absorption spectra of DHB's mono and dianions shows unusual blue shifts, whereas in the excited state, the spectral characteristics of DHB's follow the same trend in both aqueous and beta-CD medium.

Diagnostics of red-shifted H-alpha line emission from a C-class flare with full non-LTE radiative and hydrodynamic approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Druett, M. K.; Zharkova, V. V.; Scullion, E.; Zharkov, S.; Matthews, S. A.

2016-12-01

We analyse H-alpha line profiles with strong redshifts during the C1.8 flare on 1st July 2012 obtained from the Swedish Solar Telescope (SST) closely resembling the previous observations (Wuelser and Marti, 1989). The flare has a magnetic field configuration with two levels of loop structures. The kernels with red shifts are observed in one of the H-alpha ribbons in the south-west location formed after the main impulse recorded in the north-east. The locations of H-alpha kernels with red shifts reveal close temporal and spatial correlation with weaker HXR signatures and coincide with the locations of coronal jets observed with AIA/SDO. For interpretation we apply a revised 1D hydrodynamic and non-LTE (NLTE) radiative model for 5 level plus continuum model hydrogen atom (Druett & Zharkova, 2016) considering radiative, thermal and non-thermal excitation and ionisation by beam electrons with the updated beam densities (Zharkova & Dobranskis, 2016) and analytical excitation/ionisation rates (Zharkova& Kobylinskijj, 1993). We find the simultaneous solutions of steady state and radiative transfer equations in all optically-thick lines and continua. The electron and ion temperatures, ambient density and macrovelocity of the ambient plasma are derived from a 1D hydrodynamic model with initial condition of the pre-flaring photosphere for the two fluid ambient plasma heated by beam electrons (Zharkova & Zharkov, 2007). We simulate distributions over precipitation depth of ionisation and departure coefficients for all the hydrogen atom transitions including the deviation of ionisation from Saha equation affected by non-thermal electron beams. We show that in the very first seconds after the beam onset Balmer line profiles are sensitive to the effect of beam electrons. The combination of the additional ionisation caused by beam electrons leading to a very strong Stark effect in Balmer lines with the hydrodynamic heating and formation of a low temperature shock in the

K-H2 line shapes for the spectra of cool brown dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allard, N. F.; Spiegelman, F.; Kielkopf, J. F.

2016-05-01

Observations of cooler and cooler brown dwarfs show that the contribution from broadening at many bars pressure is becoming important. The opacity in the red optical to near-IR region under these conditions is dominated by the extremely pressure-broadened wings of the alkali resonance lines, in particular, the K I resonance doublet at 0.77 μm. Collisions with H2 are preponderant in brown dwarf atmospheres at an effective temperature of about 1000 K; the H2 perturber densities reach several 1019 even in Jupiter-mass planets and exceed 1020 for super-Jupiters and older Y dwarfs. As a consequence, it appears that when the far wing absorption due to alkali atoms in a dense H2 atmosphere is significant, accurate pressure broadened profiles that are valid at high densities of H2 should be incorporated into spectral models. The opacity tables are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/589/A21

The Role of Serum Beta hCG in Early Diagnosis and Management Strategy of Ectopic Pregnancy.

PubMed

Surampudi, Kameswari; Gundabattula, Sirisha Rao

2016-07-01

The presentation of Ectopic Pregnancy (EP) can be highly variable and serum Beta hCG estimation plays an important role in early diagnosis. Aim of the study was to determine the trends of hCG levels in EP and to explore the role of hCG in decisions related to management and follow-up of EPs. A retrospective study of women who had EPs from January 2006 to December 2012 at an advanced tertiary care centre in southern India was carried out. These women had undergone treatment based on the hospital protocol. The study identified 337 women with EP. Thirty one surgically confirmed cases were diagnosed below the discriminatory zone of 1500 mIU/ml. Among women who had Beta hCG estimations 48 hours apart, plateauing was observed in 22.5% while decrease >15% was noted in 26.8%. Almost half (47.9%) of the cases had an increase >15% and a few (2.8%) demonstrated an initial fall followed by a rise in titres. In 23.9% of these women, there was a rise >53% similar to intrauterine pregnancy. The average pre-treatment Beta hCG was 429.8, 3866.2 and 12961.5 mIU/ml for those who received expectant, medical and direct surgical treatment respectively. 43 women with relative contraindications received medical management and 39 were lost to follow-up after medical and expectant management. Excluding them, the success rate of these two modalities was 76.6% and 85.0% respectively. No single level of Beta hCG is diagnostic of EP and serial levels can demonstrate atypical trends in some cases. Hence, interpretation of these results should be done in conjunction with clinical and sonographic findings to arrive at a correct diagnosis.

Interleukins 1alpha and 1beta secreted by some melanoma cell lines strongly reduce expression of MITF-M and melanocyte differentiation antigens.

PubMed

Kholmanskikh, Olga; van Baren, Nicolas; Brasseur, Francis; Ottaviani, Sabrina; Vanacker, Julie; Arts, Nathalie; van der Bruggen, Pierre; Coulie, Pierre; De Plaen, Etienne

2010-10-01

We report that melanoma cell lines expressing the interleukin-1 receptor exhibit 4- to 10-fold lower levels of mRNA of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF-M) when treated with interleukin-1beta. This effect is NF-kappaB and JNK-dependent. MITF-M regulates the expression of melanocyte differentiation genes such as MLANA, tyrosinase and gp100, which encode antigens recognized on melanoma cells by autologous cytolytic T lymphocytes. Accordingly, treating some melanoma cells with IL-1beta reduced by 40-100% their ability to activate such antimelanoma cytolytic T lymphocytes. Finally, we observed large amounts of biologically active IL-1alpha or IL-1beta secreted by two melanoma cell lines that did not express MITF-M, suggesting an autocrine MITF-M downregulation. We estimate that approximately 13% of melanoma cell lines are MITF-M-negative and secrete IL-1 cytokines. These results indicate that the repression of melanocyte-differentiation genes by IL-1 produced by stromal cells or by tumor cells themselves may represent an additional mechanism of melanoma immune escape.

A CANDELS WFC3 Grism Study of Emission-Line Galaxies at Z approximates 2: A mix of Nuclear Activity and Low-Metallicity Star Formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trump, Jonathan R.; Weiner, Benjamin J.; Scarlata, Claudia; Kocevski, Dale D.; Bell, Eric F.; McGrath, Elizabeth J.; Koo, David C.; Faber, S. M.; Laird, Elise S.; Mozena, Mark;

ExoMol line lists XXIV: a new hot line list for silicon monohydride, SiH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yurchenko, Sergei N.; Sinden, Frances; Lodi, Lorenzo; Hill, Christian; Gorman, Maire N.; Tennyson, Jonathan

2018-02-01

SiH has long been observed in the spectrum of our Sun and other cool stars. Computed line lists for the main isotopologues of silicon monohydride, 28SiH, 29SiH, 30SiH and 28SiD are presented. These line lists consider rotation-vibration transitions within the ground X 2Π electronic state as well as transitions to the low-lying A 2Δ and a 4Σ- states. Ab initio potential energy (PECs) and dipole moment curves along with spin-orbit and electronic angular momentum couplings between them are calculated using the multireference configuration interaction level of theory with the MOLPRO package. The PEC for the ground X 2Π state is refined to available experimental data with a typical accuracy of around 0.01 cm-1 or better. The 28SiH line list includes 11 785 rovibronic states and 1724 841 transitions with associated Einstein-A coefficients for angular momentum J up to 82.5 and covering wavenumbers up to 31 340 cm-1 (λ < 0.319 μm). Spectra are simulated using the new line list and comparisons made with various experimental spectra. These line lists are applicable up to temperatures of 5000 K, making them relevant to astrophysical objects such as exoplanetary atmospheres and cool stars and opening up the possibility of detection in the interstellar medium. These line lists, called SiGHTLY, are available at the ExoMol (www.exomol.com) and CDS data base websites.

The generalization of upper atmospheric wind and temperature based on the Voigt line shape profile.

PubMed

Zhang, Chunmin; He, Jian

2006-12-25

The principle of probing the upper atmospheric wind field, which is the Voigt profile spectral line shape, is presented for the first time. By the Fourier Transform of Voigt profile, with the Imaging Spectroscope and the Doppler effect of electromagnetic wave, the distribution and calculation formulae of the velocity field, temperature field, and pressure field of the upper atmosphere wind field are given. The probed source is the two major aurora emission lines originated from the metastable O(1S) and O(1D) at 557.7nm and 630.0nm. From computer simulation and error analysis, the Voigt profile, which is the correlation of the Gaussian profile and Lorentzian profile, is closest to the actual airglow emission lines.

Rapid measurement of 3J(H N-H alpha) and 3J(N-H beta) coupling constants in polypeptides.

PubMed

Barnwal, Ravi Pratap; Rout, Ashok K; Chary, Kandala V R; Atreya, Hanudatta S

2007-12-01

We present two NMR experiments, (3,2)D HNHA and (3,2)D HNHB, for rapid and accurate measurement of 3J(H N-H alpha) and 3J(N-H beta) coupling constants in polypeptides based on the principle of G-matrix Fourier transform NMR spectroscopy and quantitative J-correlation. These experiments, which facilitate fast acquisition of three-dimensional data with high spectral/digital resolution and chemical shift dispersion, will provide renewed opportunities to utilize them for sequence specific resonance assignments, estimation/characterization of secondary structure with/without prior knowledge of resonance assignments, stereospecific assignment of prochiral groups and 3D structure determination, refinement and validation. Taken together, these experiments have a wide range of applications from structural genomics projects to studying structure and folding in polypeptides.

RNA-seq reveals distinctive RNA profiles of small extracellular vesicles from different human liver cancer cell lines

PubMed Central

Berardocco, Martina; Radeghieri, Annalisa; Busatto, Sara; Gallorini, Marialucia; Raggi, Chiara; Gissi, Clarissa; D’Agnano, Igea; Bergese, Paolo; Felsani, Armando; Berardi, Anna C.

2017-01-01

Liver cancer (LC) is one of the most common cancers and represents the third highest cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Extracellular vesicle (EVs) cargoes, which are selectively enriched in RNA, offer great promise for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of LC. Our study analyzed the RNA cargoes of EVs derived from 4 liver-cancer cell lines: HuH7, Hep3B, HepG2 (hepato-cellular carcinoma) and HuH6 (hepatoblastoma), generating two different sets of sequencing libraries for each. One library was size-selected for small RNAs and the other targeted the whole transcriptome. Here are reported genome wide data of the expression level of coding and non-coding transcripts, microRNAs, isomiRs and snoRNAs providing the first comprehensive overview of the extracellular-vesicle RNA cargo released from LC cell lines. The EV-RNA expression profiles of the four liver cancer cell lines share a similar background, but cell-specific features clearly emerge showing the marked heterogeneity of the EV-cargo among the individual cell lines, evident both for the coding and non-coding RNA species. PMID:29137313

Spectroscopy of an unusual emission line M star

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, Donald P.; Greenstein, Jesse L.; Schmidt, Maarten; Gunn, James E.

1991-01-01

Moderate-resolution spectroscopy of an unusual late-type faint emission-line star, PC 0025 + 0047, is reported. A very strong (greater than 250 A equivalent width) an H-alpha emission line was detected by the present automated line search algorithm. The spectrum was found to have two unresolved emission lines (H-alpha and H-beta) near zero velocity, superposed on the absorption spectrum of a very red M dwarf which has strong K I, and relatively weak bands of TiO. From the weakness of the subordinate lines of Na I (8192 A) and other spectral features, it is inferred that it is definitely a cooler, and probably fainter, analog of LHS 2924. The strength of the emission lines indicates that PC 0025 + 0447 is very young and may be a fading predecessor brown drawf at an estimated M(bol) approaching 14m at a distance of about 60 pc.

Far-ultraviolet and optical spectrophotometry of X-ray selected Seyfert galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clarke, J. T.; Bowyer, S.; Grewing, M.

1986-01-01

Five X-ray selected Seyfert galaxies were examined via near-simultaneous far-ultraviolet and optical spectrophotometry in an effort to test models for excitation of emission lines by X-ray and ultraviolet continuum photoionization. The observed Ly-alpha/H-beta ratio in the present sample averages 22, with an increase found toward the high-velocity wings of the H lines in the spectrum of at least one of the Seyfert I nuclei. It is suggested that Seyfert galaxies with the most high-velocity gas exhibit the highest Ly-alpha/H-beta ratios at all velocities in the line profiles, and that sometimes this ratio may be highest for the highest velocity material in the broad-line clouds. Since broad-lined objects are least affected by Ly-alpha trapping effects, they have Ly-alpha/H-beta ratios much closer to those predicted by early photoionization calculations.

High Dispersion Line Profile Studies of TW HYA and Other Pre-Main Sequence Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linsky, Jeffrey L.

1984-07-01

We propose to extend our study of line profiles in T Tauri stars by obtaining a 16 hour SWP-HI spectrum of TW Hya and 6-8 hour LWP-HI spectra of TW Hya, AK Sco, CoD -35 10525 and CoD -33 10685. High dispersion spectra of pre-main sequence (PMS) stars provide unique information on line widths, shifts, and asymmetries, as well as evidence for mass outflow, circumstellar absorption, and diagnostics for the temperature structure of the outer atmosphere layers of these complex yet incredibly important objects. We have previously obtained and studied line profiles in RU Lupi and the prototype star T Tau. RU Lupi has line profiles that are dominated by the wind expansion, for example the MgII and FeII multiplet UV1 profiles are unique in that they have a classical P Cygni shape, whereas T Tau has more symmetric emission profiles indicative of a chromosphere and hotter layers not dominated by expansion. TW Hya is different from these two previously studied stars in that it may be the brightest known example of a post-T Tauri star, and hence less active and older than the other PMS stars. We intend to compare its line profiles with those of RU Lupi and T Tauri in order to understand the differences in the non-thermal mass motions, wind expansion, and thermal structures of these three very different T Tau stars. The requested LWPHI spectra are to obtain MgII and FeII multiplet UV1. profiles of 4 different T Tauri objects so as to infer the expansion and thermal structure in their chromospheric layers.

5Beta,6beta-epoxy-17-oxoandrostan-3beta-yl acetate and 5beta,6beta-epoxy-20-oxopregnan-3beta-yl acetate.

PubMed

Pinto, Rui M A; Salvador, Jorge A R; Paixão, José A

2008-05-01

In the title compounds, C(21)H(30)O(4), (I), and C(23)H(34)O(4), (II), respectively, which are valuable intermediates in the synthesis of important steroid derivatives, rings A and B are cis-(5beta,10beta)-fused. The two molecules have similar conformations of rings A, B and C. The presence of the 5beta,6beta-epoxide group induces a significant twist of the steroid nucleus and a strong flattening of the B ring. The different C17 substituents result in different conformations for ring D. Cohesion of the molecular packing is achieved in both compounds only by weak intermolecular interactions. The geometries of the molecules in the crystalline environment are compared with those of the free molecules as given by ab initio Roothan Hartree-Fock calculations. We show in this work that quantum mechanical ab initio methods reproduce well the details of the conformation of these molecules, including a large twist of the steroid nucleus. The calculated twist values are comparable, but are larger than the observed values, indicating a possible small effect of the crystal packing on the twist angles.

Fenoterol, a beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist, inhibits LPS-induced membrane-bound CD14, TLR4/CD14 complex, and inflammatory cytokines production through beta-arrestin-2 in THP-1 cell line.

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Xu, Ming; Zhang, You-yi; He, Bei

2009-11-01

To investigate the molecular mechanism and signaling pathway by which fenoterol, a beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)-AR) agonist, produces anti-inflammatory effects. THP-1, a monocytic cell line, was used to explore the mechanism of beta(2)-AR stimulation in LPS-induced secretion of inflammatory cytokines and changes of toll-like receptors (TLRs). We labeled TLR4 and CD14 using monoclonal anti-TLR4 PE-conjugated and anti-CD14 FITC-conjugated antibodies in THP-1 cells stimulated by beta(2)-AR in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and small, interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of beta-arrestin-2, and then analyzed their changes in distribution by flow cytometry, Western blotting and confocal analysis. LPS-induced membrane-bound CD14, TLR4/CD14 complex levels and elevation of inflammatory cytokines were all significantly reduced by pre-incubation of fenoterol (P<0.05). However, the total level of CD14 and TLR4 was not significantly changed. Interestingly, confocal microscopy revealed redistribution of CD14 and TLR4/CD14 complex under beta(2)-AR stimulation. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated knockdown of beta-arrestin-2 eliminated the anti-inflammatory effects and redistribution of CD14 and TLR4/CD14 complex stimulated by beta(2)-AR. beta(2)-AR agonist exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by down-regulating TLR signaling in THP-1 cells, potentially resulting from beta-arrestin-2 mediated redistribution of CD14 and TLR14/CD14 complex.

The human chondrosarcoma HCS-2/8 cell line is responsive to BMP-7, but not to IL-1beta.

PubMed

Saas, Joachim; Gebauer, Matthias; Jacobi, Carsten; Haag, Jochen; Takigawa, Masaharu; Aigner, Thomas

2005-05-01

Cultures of primary chondrocytes as in vitro model systems for studying the cellular behavior of chondrocytes are notoriously difficult to cultivate and propagate. One way to circumvent these problems appears to be the use of immortalized/immortal chondrocytic cell lines. In the present study, we were interested whether the chondrosarcoma derived HCS-2/8 cells are suitable for studying major cellular reaction pattern in response to key anabolic (BMP-7) and catabolic (IL-1beta) factors. Therefore, we used cDNA array and real-time PCR technology in order to evaluate gene expression triggered by stimulation with IL-1beta (0,1-100 ng/ml) and BMP-7 in confluent monolayer cultures. HCS-2/8 cells hardly responded to IL-1beta, but showed good responsiveness to BMP-7. We found 12 genes up- and 17 significantly down-regulated by BMP-7 (out of 340 investigated genes). Besides the expected activation of anabolic genes chondrocytic cells after BMP-stimulation try to neutralize activation of the BMP-signalling cascade by expressing intra- and extracellular BMP-antagonists. Chondrosarcoma derived cell lines are a potential substitute for primary articular chondrocytes promising consistent expression of a differentiated chondrocyte phenotype with sufficient proliferative capacity. However, as shown by this study one needs to carefully select the cell line depending on the effects which one intends to study. In this respect, HCS-2/8 cells are a validated tool for studying BMP-effects on chondrocytes, but not e.g. effects of interleukin-1.

Steps Toward Determination of the Size and Structure of the Broad-Line Region in Active Galactic Nuclei XVI: A 13 Year Study of Spectral Variability in NGC 5548

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peterson, B. M.; Berlind, P.; Bertram, R.; Bischoff, K.; Bochkarev, N. G.; Burenkov, A. N.; Calkins, M.; Carrasco, L.; Chavushyan, V. H.

2002-01-01

We present the final installment of an intensive 13 year study of variations of the optical continuum and broad H beta emission line in the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 5548. The database consists of 1530 optical continuum measurements and 1248 H beta measurements. The H beta variations follow the continuum variations closely, with a typical time delay of about 20 days. However, a year-by-year analysis shows that the magnitude of emission-line time delay is correlated with the mean continuum flux. We argue that the data are consistent with the simple model prediction between the size of the broad-line region and the ionizing luminosity, r is proportional to L(sup 1/2)(sub ion). Moreover, the apparently linear nature of the correlation between the H beta response time and the nonstellar optical continuum F(sub opt) arises as a consequence of the changing shape of the continuum as it varies, specifically F(sub opt) is proportional to F(sup 0.56)(sub UV).

Genetic aspects of auto-immune profiles of healthy chickens.

PubMed

Parmentier, Henk K; van der Vaart, Priscilla S; Nieuwland, Mike G B; Savelkoul, Huub F J

2017-09-01

Auto-antibody profiles binding liver antigens differed between chicken lines divergently selected for specific antibody responses to SRBC, and were affected by ageing suggesting both genetic and environmental effects. Presence and levels of IgM and IgG antibodies binding chicken liver cell lysate (CLL) fragments in plasma at 5 weeks of age from 10 individual full sibs and their parents from 5 H srbc and 5 L srbc line families was studied to reveal genetic relations. Non-genetic maternal effects were studied by comparing auto-antibody profiles of 36 weeks old hens from 2 other unrelated lines with the profiles from their chicks at hatch. IgM and IgG antibodies from parents and progeny from both H srbc and L srbc lines bound CLL fragments. Significant line and generation differences and their interactions were found for both isotypes. Higher staining of CLL fragments was usually found for H srbc line birds. Lines were clustered by auto-antibody profiles, but staining by birds of both lines in both generations was very individual for IgG and IgM. The current data with full sibs therefore not supported a genetic basis for auto-antibody profiles. IgG but not IgM auto-antibody profiles of chicks correlated with maternal auto-antibody profiles. The results suggest that the auto-antibody repertoire of healthy chickens is largely stochastically initiated and may be affected by environmental challenges during ageing, but genetic mechanisms may underlie staining intensity of individual bound CLL fragments. The present results suggest that identification of fragments or profiles to be used at early age for genetic selection for health traits is not feasible yet. Secondly, the IgM profile of neonatal chickens seems non-organised independent of the maternal profile, but the neonatal IgG profile is much more related with the maternal profile. Consequences of these findings for disease susceptibility or breeding for optimal health are discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All

Lyman alpha line shapes from electron impact H2 dissociative processes in the Jovian auroral zone

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waite, J. H., Jr.; Gladstone, G. R.

1992-01-01

Over the past two years several Lyman alpha line profile spectra of Jupiter were obtained using the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) telescope. Several different regions of the planet were observed including the auroral zone, the low and mid latitudes, and the equatorial region which includes the Lyman alpha bulge region. These results have presented a very interesting picture of atomic hydrogen on Jupiter with explanations that range from ion outflow in the auroral zone to large thermospheric winds at low and mid latitudes. New data are needed to address the outstanding questions. Almost certainly, high resolution spectra from the Hubble Space Telescope will play a role in new observations. Better data also require better models, and better models require new laboratory data as inputs. The purpose of this program is two-fold: (1) to introduce a method by which new laboratory electron impact measurements of H2 dissociation can be used to calculate both the slow and fast H(S-2) and H(P-2) fragments in an H2 atmosphere; and (2) to determine the predicted Lyman alpha line shape that would result from electron impact production of these dissociative fragments in the Jovian auroral zone.

New life to an old treatment: pegylated Interferon beta 1a in the management of multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Ortiz, Miguel Angel; Espino-Paisan, Laura; Nunez, Concepcion; Alvarez-Lafuente, Roberto; Urcelay, Elena

2018-02-25

In the 1990s, the betainterferons and glatiramer acetate were introduced for treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. These medications have a demonstrated record of efficacy and safety, although they require frequent administration via injection and are only partially effective. The optimization of treatment in patients who do not respond adequately to this first-line therapy is essential for attaining the best long-term outcomes. Switching to the recently approved emergent therapies is a strategy to consider for treatment of patients with a suboptimal response. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action, clinical benefits, and safety profiles of current multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies, including highly efficacious monoclonal antibodies or convenient oral therapies. Although the first-line interferon beta exhibits a favorable benefit-to-risk profile, treatment compliance is compromised potentially due to its known adverse events and frequent injectable administration. Less frequent dosing and improved pharmacological properties have been achieved by reaction of interferon beta with chemically activated polyethylene glycol. Provided that none of the available therapies shows better effectiveness for all outcomes and their safety in clinical practice is a fundamental concern, the pegylated form of interferon beta seems to keep its place as a competitive therapeutic option. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Self-absorption characteristics of measured laser-induced plasma line shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parigger, C. G.; Surmick, D. M.; Gautam, G.

2017-02-01

The determination of electron density and temperature is reported from line-of-sight measurements of laser-induced plasma. Experiments are conducted in standard ambient temperature and pressure air and in a cell containing ultra-high-pure hydrogen slightly above atmospheric pressure. Spectra of the hydrogen Balmer series lines can be measured in laboratory air due to residual moisture following optical breakdown generated with 13 to 14 nanosecond, pulsed Nd:YAG laser radiation. Comparisons with spectra obtained in hydrogen gas yields Abel-inverted line shape appearances that indicate occurrence of self-absorption. The electron density and temperature distributions along the line of sight show near-spherical rings, expanding at or near the speed of sound in the hydrogen gas experiments. The temperatures in the hydrogen studies are obtained using Balmer series alpha, beta, gamma profiles. Over and above the application of empirical formulae to derive the electron density from hydrogen alpha width and shift, and from hydrogen beta width and peak-separation, so-called escape factors and the use of a doubling mirror are discussed.

Extracellular heat shock protein HSP90{beta} secreted by MG63 osteosarcoma cells inhibits activation of latent TGF-{beta}1

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Suzuki, Shigeki; Kulkarni, Ashok B., E-mail: ak40m@nih.gov

2010-07-30

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-{beta}1) is secreted as a latent complex, which consists of latency-associated peptide (LAP) and the mature ligand. The release of the mature ligand from LAP usually occurs through conformational change of the latent complex and is therefore considered to be the first step in the activation of the TGF-{beta} signaling pathway. So far, factors such as heat, pH changes, and proteolytic cleavage are reportedly involved in this activation process, but the precise molecular mechanism is still far from clear. Identification and characterization of the cell surface proteins that bind to LAP are important to our understandingmore » of the latent TGF-{beta} activation process. In this study, we have identified heat shock protein 90 {beta} (HSP90{beta}) from the cell surface of the MG63 osteosarcoma cell line as a LAP binding protein. We have also found that MG63 cells secrete HSP90{beta} into extracellular space which inhibits the activation of latent TGF-{beta}1, and that there is a subsequent decrease in cell proliferation. TGF-{beta}1-mediated stimulation of MG63 cells resulted in the increased cell surface expression of HSP90{beta}. Thus, extracellular HSP90{beta} is a negative regulator for the activation of latent TGF-{beta}1 modulating TGF-{beta} signaling in the extracellular domain. -- Research highlights: {yields} Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-{beta}1) is secreted as a latent complex. {yields} This complex consists of latency-associated peptide (LAP) and the mature ligand. {yields} The release of the mature ligand from LAP is the first step in TGF-{beta} activation. {yields} We identified for the first time a novel mechanism for this activation process. {yields} Heat shock protein 90 {beta} is discovered as a negative regulator for this process.« less

Spectroscopic characteristics of H α /OI atomic lines generated by nanosecond pulsed corona-like discharge in deionized water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pongrác, Branislav; Šimek, Milan; Člupek, Martin; Babický, Václav; Lukeš, Petr

2018-03-01

Basic emission fingerprints of nanosecond discharges produced in deionized water by fast rise-time positive high-voltage pulses (duration of 6 ns and amplitude of  +100 kV) in a point-to-plane electrode geometry were investigated by means of time-resolved intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) spectroscopy. Time-resolved emission spectra were measured via ICCD kinetic series during the discharge ignition and later phases over the 350-850 nm spectral range with fixed, either 3 ns or 30 ns, acquisition time and with 3 ns or 30 ns time resolution, respectively. The luminous phase of the initial discharge expansion and its subsequent collapse was characterized by a broadband vis-NIR continuum emission evolving during the first few nanoseconds which shifted more toward the UV with further increase of time. After ~30 ns from the discharge onset, the continuum gradually disappeared followed by the emission of H α and OI atomic lines. The electron densities calculated from the H α profile fit were estimated to be of the order of 1018-1019 cm-3. It is unknown if the H α and OI atomic lines are generated even in earlier times (before ~30 ns) because such signals were not detectable due to the superposition with the strong continuum. However, subsequent events caused by the reflected HV pulses were observed to have significant effects on the emission spectra profiles of the nanosecond discharge. By varying the time delay of the reflected pulse from 45 to 90 ns after the primary pulse, the intensities of the H α /OI atomic lines in the emission spectra of the secondary discharges were clearly visible and their intensities were greater with shorter time delay between primary and reflected pulses. These results indicate that the discharges generated due to the reflected pulses were very likely generated in the non-relaxed environment.

Conversion of Human Steroid 5[beta]-Reductase (AKR1D1) into 3[beta]-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase by Single Point Mutation E120H: Example of Perfect Enzyme Engineering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Mo; Drury, Jason E.; Christianson, David W.

2012-10-10

Human aldo-keto reductase 1D1 (AKR1D1) and AKR1C enzymes are essential for bile acid biosynthesis and steroid hormone metabolism. AKR1D1 catalyzes the 5{beta}-reduction of {Delta}{sup 4}-3-ketosteroids, whereas AKR1C enzymes are hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSDs). These enzymes share high sequence identity and catalyze 4-pro-(R)-hydride transfer from NADPH to an electrophilic carbon but differ in that one residue in the conserved AKR catalytic tetrad, His120 (AKR1D1 numbering), is substituted by a glutamate in AKR1D1. We find that the AKR1D1 E120H mutant abolishes 5{beta}-reductase activity and introduces HSD activity. However, the E120H mutant unexpectedly favors dihydrosteroids with the 5{alpha}-configuration and, unlike most of the AKR1Cmore » enzymes, shows a dominant stereochemical preference to act as a 3{beta}-HSD as opposed to a 3{alpha}-HSD. The catalytic efficiency achieved for 3{beta}-HSD activity is higher than that observed for any AKR to date. High resolution crystal structures of the E120H mutant in complex with epiandrosterone, 5{beta}-dihydrotestosterone, and {Delta}{sup 4}-androstene-3,17-dione elucidated the structural basis for this functional change. The glutamate-histidine substitution prevents a 3-ketosteroid from penetrating the active site so that hydride transfer is directed toward the C3 carbonyl group rather than the {Delta}{sup 4}-double bond and confers 3{beta}-HSD activity on the 5{beta}-reductase. Structures indicate that stereospecificity of HSD activity is achieved because the steroid flips over to present its {alpha}-face to the A-face of NADPH. This is in contrast to the AKR1C enzymes, which can invert stereochemistry when the steroid swings across the binding pocket. These studies show how a single point mutation in AKR1D1 can introduce HSD activity with unexpected configurational and stereochemical preference.« less

H3 K79 dimethylation marks developmental activation of the beta-globin gene but is reduced upon LCR-mediated high-level transcription.

PubMed

Sawado, Tomoyuki; Halow, Jessica; Im, Hogune; Ragoczy, Tobias; Bresnick, Emery H; Bender, M A; Groudine, Mark

2008-07-15

Genome-wide analyses of the relationship between H3 K79 dimethylation and transcription have revealed contradictory results. To clarify this relationship at a single locus, we analyzed expression and H3 K79 modification levels of wild-type (WT) and transcriptionally impaired beta-globin mutant genes during erythroid differentiation. Analysis of fractionated erythroid cells derived from WT/Delta locus control region (LCR) heterozygous mice reveals no significant H3 K79 dimethylation of the beta-globin gene on either allele prior to activation of transcription. Upon transcriptional activation, H3 K79 di-methylation is observed along both WT and DeltaLCR alleles, and both alleles are located in proximity to H3 K79 dimethylation nuclear foci. However, H3 K79 di-methylation is significantly increased along the DeltaLCR allele compared with the WT allele. In addition, analysis of a partial LCR deletion mutant reveals that H3 K79 dimethylation is inversely correlated with beta-globin gene expression levels. Thus, while our results support a link between H3 K79 dimethylation and gene expression, high levels of this mark are not essential for high level beta-globin gene transcription. We propose that H3 K79 dimethylation is destabilized on a highly transcribed template.

O-star parameters from line profiles of wind-blanketed model atmospheres

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Voels, S.A.

1989-01-01

The basic stellar parameters (i.e. effective temperature, gravity, helium content, bolometric correction, etc...) of several O-stars are determined by matching high signal-to-noise observed line profiles of optical hydrogen and helium line transitions with theoretical line profiles from a core-halo model of the stellar atmosphere. The core-halo atmosphere includes the effect of radiation backscattered from a stellar wind by incorporating the stellar wind model of Abbott and Lucy as a reflective upper boundary condition in the Mihalas atmosphere model. Three of the four supergiants analyzed showed an enhanced surface abundance of helium. Using a large sample of equivalent width data frommore » Conti a simple argument is made that surface enhancement of helium may be a common property of the most luminous supergiants. The stellar atmosphere theory is sufficient to determine the stellar parameters only if careful attention is paid to the detection and exclusion of lines which are not accurately modeled by the physical processes included. It was found that some strong lines which form entirely below the sonic point are not well modeled due to effects of atmospheric extension. For spectral class 09.5, one of these lines is the classification line He I {lambda}4471{angstrom}. For supergiant, the gravity determined could be systematically low by up to 0.05 dex as the radiation pressure due to lines is neglected. Within the error ranges, the stellar parameters determined, including helium abundance, agree with those from the stellar evolution calculations of Maeder and Maynet.« less

Impurity profiling of liothyronine sodium by means of reversed phase HPLC, high resolution mass spectrometry, on-line H/D exchange and UV/Vis absorption.

PubMed

Ruggenthaler, M; Grass, J; Schuh, W; Huber, C G; Reischl, R J

2017-09-05

For the first time, a comprehensive investigation of the impurity profile of the synthetic thyroid API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) liothyronine sodium (LT 3 Na) was performed by using reversed phase HPLC and advanced structural elucidation techniques including high resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS) and on-line hydrogen-deuterium (H/D) exchange. Overall, 39 compounds were characterized and 25 of these related substances were previously unknown to literature. The impurity classification system recently developed for the closely related API levothyroxine sodium (LT 4 Na) could be applied to the newly characterized liothyronine sodium impurities resulting in a wholistic thyroid API impurity classification system. Furthermore, the mass-spectrometric CID-fragmentation of specific related substances was discussed and rationalized by detailed fragmentation pathways. Moreover, the UV/Vis absorption characteristics of the API and selected impurities were investigated to corroborate chemical structure assignments derived from MS data. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Tumor suppression function of the Big-h3 gene in radiation carcinogenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Y.; Piao, C.; Hei, T.

Interaction between cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Using an immortalized human bronchial epithelial (BEP2D) cell model, we show here that expression of Big-h3 gene, a secreted adhesion molecule induced by transforming growth factor- beta (TGF-beta ), is markedly decreased in independently generated, high LET radiation-induced tumor cell lines (TL1-TL5) relative to parental BEP2D cells. Expression of this gene was restored to control level in fusion cell lines between the tumorigenic and parental BEP2D cells that were no longer tumorigenic in nude mice. Transfection of Big-h3 gene into tumor cells resulted in a significant reduction of tumor growth. While integrin receptor alpha 5/beta 1 was overexpressed in tumor cells, its expression was corrected to the level of control BEP2D cells after Big-h3 transfection. These data suggest that Big-h3 is involved in tumor progression by regulating integrin receptor alpha 5/beta 1. . WWee We further show that down regulation of Big-h3 results from loss of expression of TGFbeta1 in tumor cells. The findings provide strong evidence that the Big-h3 gene has tumor suppressor function in radiation induced tumorigenic human bronchial epithelial cells and suggest a potential target for interventional therapy.

Beta-Endorphin: dissociation of receptor binding activity from analgesic potency.

PubMed

Li, C H; Tseng, L F; Ferrara, P; Yamashiro, D

1980-04-01

Biological activities of synthetic camel beta-endorphin and human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP) have been measured by the radioreceptor binding assay, using [Tyr27-3H]-beta h-EP as the primary ligand and by the tail-flick test for analgesic potency. Four synthetic analogs of beta h-EP, namely [Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-NH2, [Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, and [CH3(CH2)4NH231]-beta h-EP, have also been assayed by the same procedures. Results indicate a clear dissociation of radioreceptor binding activity from analgesic potency.

The species origin of the cellular microenvironment influences markers of beta cell fate and function in EndoC-βH1 cells.

PubMed

Jeffery, N; Richardson, S; Beall, C; Harries, L W

2017-12-15

Interaction between islet cell subtypes and the extracellular matrix influences beta-cell function in mammals. The tissue architecture of rodent islets is very different to that of human islets; cell-to-cell communication and interaction with the extracellular matrix may vary between species. In this work, we have compared the responses of the human EndoC-βH1 cell line to non-human and human-derived growth matrices in terms of growth morphology, gene expression and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). EndoC-βH1 cells demonstrated a greater tendency to form cell clusters when cultured in a human microenvironment and exhibited reduced alpha cell markers at the mRNA level; mean expression difference - 0.23 and - 0.51; p = 0.009 and 0.002 for the Aristaless-related homeobox (ARX) and Glucagon (GCG) genes respectively. No differences were noted in the protein expression of mature beta cell markers such as Pdx1 and NeuroD1 were noted in EndoC-βH1 cells grown in a human microenvironment but cells were however more sensitive to glucose (4.3-fold increase in insulin secretion following glucose challenge compared with a 1.9-fold increase in cells grown in a non-human microenvironment; p = 0.0003). Our data suggests that the tissue origin of the cellular microenvironment has effects on the function of EndoC-βH1 cells in vitro, and the use of a more human-like culture microenvironment may bring benefits in terms of increased physiological relevance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Asymmetries of solar oscillation line profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duvall, T. L., Jr.; Jefferies, S. M.; Harvey, J. W.; Osaki, Y.; Pomerantz, M. A.

1993-01-01

Asymmetries of the power spectral line profiles of solar global p-modes are detected in full-disk intensity observations of the Ca II K Fraunhofer line. The asymmetry is a strong function of temporal frequency being strongest at the lowest frequencies observed and vanishing near the peak of the power distribution. The variation with spherical harmonic degree is small. The asymmetry is interpreted in terms of a model in which the solar oscillation cavity is compared to a Fabry-Perot interferometer with the source slightly outside the cavity. A phase difference between an outward direct wave and a corresponding inward wave that passes through the cavity gives rise to the asymmetry. The asymmetry is different in velocity and intensity observations. Neglecting the asymmetry when modeling the power spectrum can lead to systematic errors in the measurement of mode frequencies of as much as 10 exp -4 of the mode frequency. The present observations and interpretation locate the source of the oscillations to be approximately 60 km beneath the photosphere, the shallowest position suggested to date.

Molecular rotational line profiles from oxygen-rich red giant winds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Justtanont, K.; Skinner, C. J.; Tielens, A. G. G. M.

1994-01-01

We have developed a radiative transfer model of the dust and gas envelopes around late-type stars. The gas kinetic temperature for each star is calculated by solving equations of motion and the energy balance simultaneously. The main processes include viscous heating and adiabatic and radiative cooling. Heating is dominated by viscosity as the grains stream outward through the gas, with some contribution in oxygen-rich stars by near-IR pumping of H2O followed by collisional de-excitation in the inner envelope. For O-rich stars, rotational H2O cooling is a dominant mechanism in the middle part of the envelope, with CO cooling being less significant. We have applied our model to three well-studied oxygen-rich red giant stars. The three stars cover a wide range of mass-loss rates, and hence they have different temperature structures. The derived temperature structures are used in calculating CO line profiles for these objects. Comparison of the dust and gas mass-loss rates suggests that mass-loss rates are not constant during the asymptotic giant branch phase. In particular, the results show that the low CO 1-0 antenna temperatures of OH/IR stars reflect an earlier phase of much lower mass-loss rate.

Synthesis, Characterization, In Vitro Evaluation, and Preclinical Profiling of beta-Cyclodextrin Polyrotaxane Families for Use As Potential Niemann-Pick Type C Therapeutics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, Christopher J.

Niemann-Pick Disease Type C (NPC) is a rare, autosomal recessive genetic disorder featuring a loss of proteins responsible for unesterified cholesterol (UC) trafficking through the late endosomes/lysosomes (LE/LY) of every cell of the body. Disruption of this pathway leads to abnormal accumulation and storage of UC and other lipids. A broad range of visceral and neurological symptoms result from this accumulation exhibiting a variable age of onset and a disease progression that is ultimately fatal. The disease has an incidence of approximately 1 in 120,000 live births and has no known effective treatment. beta-Cyclodextrin (beta-CD) are natural small molecules macrocycles composed of glucose units with a hydrophobic inner cavity and hydrophilic outer rims. beta-CD derivatives have recently been shown to be effective therapeutics for NPC in cellular and animal models. In the mouse model of the disease, beta-CD therapy increases overall lifetime by as much as 50% and slows the progression of neurodegeneration. The progress has led to the initiation of a National Institutes of Health phase I clinical trial. A main drawback of beta-CD administration is the poor pharmacokinetic profile characterized by rapid renal clearance of the drug through the urine. Libraries of beta-CD derivative carrying high molecular weight polyrotaxane (PR) systems have been designed to prevent glomerular filtration of the injected beta-CD dose. An initial family of unmodified beta-CD PRs was synthesized, characterized, and their therapeutic efficacy was tested in NPC fibroblasts. This was followed by screening of PRs consisting of mixed beta-CD derivative threading featuring charged sulfobutylether beta-CD. Finally, we sought to define PR structure-property effects on in vivo pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, toxicity, immunogenicity, and protein hard corona composition. This was accomplished using a family of gadolinium carrying PRs composed of triblock Pluronic co-polymers of varying

Beta-Endorphin: dissociation of receptor binding activity from analgesic potency.

PubMed Central

Li, C H; Tseng, L F; Ferrara, P; Yamashiro, D

1980-01-01

Biological activities of synthetic camel beta-endorphin and human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP) have been measured by the radioreceptor binding assay, using [Tyr27-3H]-beta h-EP as the primary ligand and by the tail-flick test for analgesic potency. Four synthetic analogs of beta h-EP, namely [Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-NH2, [Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, and [CH3(CH2)4NH231]-beta h-EP, have also been assayed by the same procedures. Results indicate a clear dissociation of radioreceptor binding activity from analgesic potency. PMID:6246537

Divergent expression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 11beta-hydroxylase genes between male morphs in the central nervous system, sonic muscle and testis of a vocal fish.

PubMed

Arterbery, Adam S; Deitcher, David L; Bass, Andrew H

2010-05-15

The vocalizing midshipman fish, Porichthys notatus, has two male morphs that exhibit alternative mating tactics. Only territorial males acoustically court females with long duration (minutes to >1h) calls, whereas sneaker males attempt to steal fertilizations. During the breeding season, morph-specific tactics are paralleled by a divergence in relative testis and vocal muscle size, plasma levels of the androgen 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) and the glucocorticoid cortisol, and mRNA expression levels in the central nervous system (CNS) of the steroid-synthesizing enzyme aromatase (estrogen synthase). Here, we tested the hypothesis that the midshipman's two male morphs would further differ in the CNS, as well as in the testis and vocal muscle, in mRNA abundance for the enzymes 11beta-hydroxylase (11betaH) and 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD) that directly regulate both 11KT and cortisol synthesis. Quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated male morph-specific profiles for both enzymes. Territorial males had higher 11betaH and 11betaHSD mRNA levels in testis and vocal muscle. By contrast, sneaker males had the higher CNS expression, especially for 11betaHSD, in the region containing an expansive vocal pacemaker circuit that directly determines the temporal attributes of natural calls. We propose for territorial males that higher enzyme expression in testis underlies its greater plasma 11KT levels, which in vocal muscle provides both gluconeogenic and androgenic support for its long duration calling. We further propose for sneaker males that higher enzyme expression in the vocal CNS contributes to known cortisol-specific effects on its vocal physiology. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cleavage of beta,beta-carotene to flavor compounds by fungi.

PubMed

Zorn, H; Langhoff, S; Scheibner, M; Berger, R G

2003-09-01

More than 50 filamentous fungi and yeasts, known for de novo synthesis or biotransformation of mono-, sesqui-, tri-, or tetraterpenes, were screened for their ability to cleave beta,beta-carotene to flavor compounds. Ten strains discolored a beta,beta-carotene-containing growth agar, indicating efficient degradation of beta,beta-carotene. Dihydroactinidiolide was formed as the sole conversion product of beta,beta-carotene in submerged cultures of Ganoderma applanatum, Hypomyces odoratus, Kuehneromyces mutabilis, and Trametes suaveolens. When mycelium-free culture supernatants from five species were applied for the conversions, nearly complete degradation of beta,beta-carotene was observed after 12 h. Carotenoid-derived volatile products were detected in the media of Ischnoderma benzoinum, Marasmius scorodonius, and Trametes versicolor. beta-Ionone proved to be the main metabolite in each case, whereas beta-cyclocitral, dihydroactinidiolide, and 2-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexanone were formed in minor quantities. Using a photometric bleaching test, the beta,beta-carotene cleaving enzyme activities of M. scorodonius were partially characterized.

Critical analysis of the discrepancy between V(beta) and V(ss) for drugs exhibiting different two-compartment disposition profiles.

PubMed

Sobol, Eyal; Bialer, Meir

2005-03-01

It is well known that in the two-compartment open body model the values of apparent volume of distribution (V(beta)) and volume of distribution at steady state (V(ss)) are never identical. There are at least two conditions when V(beta) significantly overestimates V(ss). The first is when most of a drug is eliminated relatively rapidly but a small fraction of the dose persists and gives rise to an extremely long half-life. The second is when a drug is rapidly cleared from the central compartment with a short half-life. The primary purpose of the current paper was to investigate how different two-compartment disposition profiles affect the magnitude of difference between V(beta) and V(ss). Novel equations have been developed that relate the V(beta)/V(ss) ratio to f1 (fraction of drug elimination associated with the distributive phase) and to beta/alpha (ratio of the exponential coefficients). This paper demonstrates mathematically that an increasing value of f1 is associated with a greater divergence between V(beta) and V(ss). A similar relationship was also found for the divergence between the terminal half-life (t(1/2beta)) and the mean residence time (MRT). An increase in the beta/alpha ratio results in a substantial decrease of this discrepancy and provides a maximal possible value, or an upper limit to the V(beta)/V(ss) ratio. The newly derived equations along with their graphical presentation may serve as an excellent predictive tool for checking the accuracy of the experimentally obtained values of V(beta) and V(ss). Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Heterozygous Hb Hope [beta136(H14)Gly --> Asp] in association with heterozygous beta0-thalassemia with apparent homozygous expression, in a Spanish patient.

PubMed

Beneitez, David; Carrera, Alícia; Duran-Suárez, Joan Ramón; Paz, Victoria; León, Antonio; García Talavera, Juan

2006-01-01

Hb Hope [beta136(H14)Gly --> Asp (GGT --> GAT)] has been found alone or in combination with other globin gene mutations in several African-American families, as well as in Japanese, Thai, Laotian, Cuban and Mauritanian families. We report the hematological and molecular characteristics of a heterozygous association of Hb Hope with beta0-thalassemia (thal) in a Spanish patient, in whom the level of expression of abnormal hemoglobin (Hb) by cation exchange high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electrophoresis suggested initially a homozygous expression of the abnormal Hb, although sequencing of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified beta-globin gene demonstrated a heterozygous genotype for Hb Hope. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of a case of Hb Hope in a Spanish family.

Winds from T Tauri stars. II - Balmer line profiles for inner disk winds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calvet, Nuria; Hartmann, Lee; Hewett, Robert

1992-01-01

Results are presented of calculations of Balmer emission line profiles using escape probability methods for T Tauri wind models with nonspherically symmetric geometry. The wind is assumed to originate in the inner regions of an accretion disk surrounding the T Tauri star, and flows outward in a 'cone' geometry. Two types of wind models are considered, both with monotonically increasing expansion velocities as a function of radial distance. For flows with large turbulent velocities, such as the HF Alfven wave-driven wind models, the effect of cone geometry is to increase the blue wing emission, and to move the absorption reversal close to line center. Line profiles for a wind model rotating with the same angular velocity as the inner disk are also calculated. The Balmer lines of this model are significantly broader than observed in most objects, suggesting that the observed emission lines do not arise in a region rotating at Keplerian velocity.

A search for FeH in M and S giants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis-Locanthi, D.

1980-01-01

The strongest lines of FeH in the visible spectrum fall in the domain of TiO and ZrO bands. Analysis exists for TiO, but nothing is yet available for the weak but important ZrO lines. Using plate measurements and microphotometer tracings, high dispersion spectra of the following cool stars have been searched for FeH lines: Beta Peg, Mu UMa, Alpha Her, Omicron Cet, Chi Cyg, HR 105, HR 8714, R And, R Cyg, R Cam, T Sgr, R CMi, Cy Cyg, and RU Cam. The strongest FeH lines are unimpressive in R Cyg, where the strong infrared bands of FeH have already been identified. Identification of the blue-green FeH lines in other spectra must be considered inconclusive until a rotational analysis of the FeH spectrum is available.

31P-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in vivo of six human melanoma xenograft lines: tumour bioenergetic status and blood supply.

PubMed Central

Lyng, H.; Olsen, D. R.; Southon, T. E.; Rofstad, E. K.

1993-01-01

Six human melanoma xenograft lines grown s.c. in BALB/c-nu/nu mice were subjected to 31P-nuclear magnetic resonance (31P-NMR) spectroscopy in vivo. The following resonances were detected: phosphomonoesters (PME), inorganic phosphate (Pi), phosphodiesters (PDE), phosphocreatine (PCr) and nucleoside triphosphate gamma, alpha and beta (NTP gamma, alpha and beta). The main purpose of the work was to search for possible relationships between 31P-NMR resonance ratios and tumour pH on the one hand and blood supply per viable tumour cell on the other. The latter parameter was measured by using the 86Rb uptake method. Tumour bioenergetic status [the (PCr + NTP beta)/Pi resonance ratio], tumour pH and blood supply per viable tumour cell decreased with increasing tumour volume for five of the six xenograft lines. The decrease in tumour bioenergetic status was due to a decrease in the (PCr + NTP beta)/total resonance ratio as well as an increase in the Pi/total resonance ratio. The decrease in the (PCr + NTP beta)/total resonance ratio was mainly a consequence of a decrease in the PCr/total resonance ratio for two lines and mainly a consequence of a decrease in the NTP beta/total resonance ratio for three lines. The magnitude of the decrease in the (PCr + NTP beta)/total resonance ratio and the magnitude of the decrease in tumour pH were correlated to the magnitude of the decrease in blood supply per viable tumour cell. Tumour pH decreased with decreasing tumour bioenergetic status, and the magnitude of this decrease was larger for the tumour lines showing a high than for those showing a low blood supply per viable tumour cell. No correlations across the tumour lines were found between tumour pH and tumour bioenergetic status or any other resonance ratio on the one hand and blood supply per viable tumour cell on the other. The differences in the 31P-NMR spectrum between the tumour lines were probably caused by differences in the intrinsic biochemical properties of the tumour

Beta-blockers for hypertension.

PubMed

Wiysonge, C S; Bradley, H; Mayosi, B M; Maroney, R; Mbewu, A; Opie, L H; Volmink, J

2007-01-24

Two recent systematic reviews found first-line beta-blockers to be less effective in reducing the incidence of stroke and the combined endpoint of stroke, myocardial infarction, and death compared to all other antihypertensive drugs taken together. However, beta-blockers might be better or worse than a specific class of drugs for a particular outcome measure so that comparing beta-blockers with all other classes taken together could be misleading. In addition, these systematic reviews did not assess the tolerability of beta-blockers relative to other antihypertensive medications. We thus undertook this review to re-assess the place of beta-blockade as first-line therapy for hypertension relative to each of the other major classes of antihypertensive drugs. To quantify the effectiveness and safety of beta-blockers on morbidity and mortality endpoints in adults with hypertension. We searched eligible studies up to June 2006 in the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Medline, Embase, and reference lists of previous reviews, and by contacting hypertension experts. We selected randomised controlled trials which assessed the effectiveness of beta-blockers compared to placebo, no therapy or other drug classes, as monotherapy or first-line therapy for hypertension, on mortality and morbidity endpoints in men and non-pregnant women aged 18 years or older. At least two authors independently applied study selection criteria, assessed study quality, and extracted data; with differences resolved by consensus. We expressed study results as relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and conducted quantitative analyses with trial participants in groups to which they were randomly allocated, regardless of which or how much treatment they actually received. In the absence of significant heterogeneity between studies (p>0.1), we performed meta-analysis using a fixed effects method. Otherwise, we used the random effects method and investigated the cause of heterogeneity

Synthesis of line profiles from models of structured winds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Puls, J.; Feldmeier, A.; Springmann, U. W. E.; Owocki, S. P.; Fullerton, A. W.

1994-01-01

On the basis of a careful analysis of resonance line formation (both for singlets and doublets) in structured winds, present time dependent models of the line driven winds of hot stars are shown to be able to explain a number of observational features with respect to variability and structure: they are (in principle) able to reproduce the black and broad troughs (without any artificial 'turbulence velocity') and the 'blue edge variability' observed in saturate resonance lines: they might explain the 'long lived narrow absorption components' often observed in unsaturated lines at high velocities; they predict a relation between the 'edge velocity' of UV-lines and the radiation temperature of the observed X-ray emission. As a first example of the extent to which theoretical models can be constrained by comparisons between observations and profiles calculated by spectrum synthesis from structured winds, we show here that models with deep-seated onset of structure formation (approximately greater than 1.1 R(sub *)) produce resonance lines which agree qualitatively with observational findings; in contrast, the here presented models with structure formation only well out in the wind (approximately greater than 1.6 R(sub *) fail in this respect.

IFN-beta1b augments glucocorticoid-induced suppression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha production by increasing the number of glucocorticoid receptors on a human monocytic cell line.

PubMed

Uitdehaag, B M; Hoekstra, K; Koper, J W; Polman, C H; Dijkstra, C D

2001-03-01

We studied the effect of recombinant interferon-beta1b (IFN-beta1b) on the sensitivity to glucocorticoids (GC) and on the number of GC receptors (GCR) in the human monocytic cell line THP-1. We found that IFN-beta1b augments the suppressive effect that dexamethasone has on the stimulated production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), most likely related to the increased number of GCR observed after exposure to IFN-beta1b. This provides a possible clue to the mechanism of action of IFN-beta in multiple sclerosis.

Spectral line profiles for a planetary corona

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chamberlain, J. W.

1976-01-01

The Lyman and Balmer emissions of a planetary corona depend on the exospheric temperature, the integrated column density of solar-illuminated hydrogen, and the region of phase space occupied by particles. Measurements of the intensity alone are incapable of defining the exosphere unambiguously. Line profiles with high spectral resolution can show whether a nonthermal component of the escaping hydrogen is present and can indicate at what altitude orbits of hydrogen atoms are depleted. It is necessary, however, to plan the observations carefully if they are to be fitted usefully to a model.

Inactivation of chloroplast H(+)-ATPase by modification of Lys beta 359, Lys alpha 176 and Lys alpha 266.

PubMed

Horbach, M; Meyer, H E; Bickel-Sandkötter, S

1991-09-01

Treatment of isolated, latent chloroplast ATPase with pyridoxal-5-phosphate (pyridoxal-P) in presence of Mg2+ causes inhibition of dithiothreitol-activated plus heat-activated ATP hydrolysis. The amount of [3H]pyridoxal-P bound to chloroplast coupling factor 1 (CF1) was estimated to run up to 6 +/- 1 pyridoxal-P/enzyme, almost equally distributed between the alpha- and beta-subunits. Inactivation, however, is complete after binding of 1.5-2 pyridoxal-P/CF1, suggesting that two covalently modified lysines prevent the activation of the enzyme. ADP as well as ATP in presence of Mg2+ protects the enzyme against inactivation and concomittantly prevents incorporation of a part of the 3H-labeled pyridoxal-P into beta- and alpha-subunits. Phosphate prevents labeling of the alpha-subunit, but has only a minor effect on protection against inactivation. The data indicate a binding site at the interface between the alpha- and beta-subunits. Cleavage of the pyridoxal-P-labeled subunits with cyanogen bromide followed by sequence analysis of the labeled peptides led to the detection of Lys beta 359, Lys alpha 176 and Lys alpha 266, which are closely related to proposed nucleotide-binding regions of the alpha- and beta-subunits.

Spatial analysis and source profiling of beta-agonists and sulfonamides in Langat River basin, Malaysia.

PubMed

Sakai, Nobumitsu; Mohd Yusof, Roslan; Sapar, Marni; Yoneda, Minoru; Ali Mohd, Mustafa

2016-04-01

Beta-agonists and sulfonamides are widely used for treating both humans and livestock for bronchial and cardiac problems, infectious disease and even as growth promoters. There are concerns about their potential environmental impacts, such as producing drug resistance in bacteria. This study focused on their spatial distribution in surface water and the identification of pollution sources in the Langat River basin, which is one of the most urbanized watersheds in Malaysia. Fourteen beta-agonists and 12 sulfonamides were quantitatively analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). A geographic information system (GIS) was used to visualize catchment areas of the sampling points, and source profiling was conducted to identify the pollution sources based on a correlation between a daily pollutant load of the detected contaminant and an estimated density of human or livestock population in the catchment areas. As a result, 6 compounds (salbutamol, sulfadiazine, sulfapyridine, sulfamethazine, sulfadimethoxine and sulfamethoxazole) were widely detected in mid catchment areas towards estuary. The source profiling indicated that the pollution sources of salbutamol and sulfamethoxazole were from sewage, while sulfadiazine was from effluents of cattle, goat and sheep farms. Thus, this combination method of quantitative and spatial analysis clarified the spatial distribution of these drugs and assisted for identifying the pollution sources. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

20. GEOLOGY, PLAN AND PROFILE, SHOWING LINED AND UNLINED SECTIONS, ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

20. GEOLOGY, PLAN AND PROFILE, SHOWING LINED AND UNLINED SECTIONS, AND DETAILED TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONS. Leeds, Hill, Barnard & Jewett drawing, no number, revised 3-20-42. - Salinas River Project, Cuesta Tunnel, Southeast of U.S. 101, San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, CA

Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin is a superantigen reactive with human T cell receptors V beta 6.9 and V beta 22

PubMed Central

1992-01-01

Candidate superantigens were screened for their ability to induce lysis of human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen class II-positive targets by human CD8+ influenza-specific cytotoxic T cell (CTL) lines. Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPET) induced major histocompatibility complex unrestricted killing by some but not all CTL lines. Using "anchored" polymerase chain reactions, CPET was shown to selectively stimulate peripheral blood lymphocytes bearing T cell receptor V beta 6.9 and V beta 22 in five healthy donors. V beta 24, V beta 21, V beta 18, V beta 5, and V beta 6.1-5 appeared to be weakly stimulated. Antigen processing was not required for CPET to induce proliferation. Like the staphylococcal enterotoxins, CPET is a major cause of food poisoning. These data suggest that superantigenic and enterotoxigenic properties may be closely linked. PMID:1512551

Overexpression of hTERT increases stem-like properties and decreases spontaneous differentiation in human mesenchymal stem cell lines

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

To overcome loss of stem-like properties and spontaneous differentiation those hinder the expansion and application of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), we have clonally isolated permanent and stable human MSC lines by ectopic overexpression of primary cell cultures of hMSCs with HPV 16 E6E7 and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) genes. These cells were found to have a differentiation potential far beyond the ordinary hMSCs. They expressed trophoectoderm and germline specific markers upon differentiation with BMP4 and retinoic acid, respectively. Furthermore, they displayed higher osteogenic and neural differentiation efficiency than primary hMSCs or hMSCs expressed HPV16 E6E7 alone with a decrease in methylation level as proven by a global CpG island methylation profile analysis. Notably, the demethylated CpG islands were highly associated with development and differentiation associated genes. Principal component analysis further pointed out the expression profile of the cells converged toward embryonic stem cells. These data demonstrate these cells not only are a useful tool for the studies of cell differentiation both for the mesenchymal and neurogenic lineages, but also provide a valuable source of cells for cell therapy studies in animal models of skeletal and neurological disorders. PMID:20670406

Novel porphyrin conjugates with a potent photodynamic antitumor effect: differential efficacy of mono- and bis-beta-cyclodextrin derivatives in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Kralova, Jarmila; Synytsya, Alla; Pouckova, Pavla; Koc, Michal; Dvorak, Michal; Kral, Vladimir

2006-01-01

In the present study we investigated the photosensitizing properties of two novel mono- and bis-cyclodextrin tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin derivatives in several tumor cell lines and in BALB/c mice bearing subcutaneously transplanted syngeneic mouse mammary carcinoma 4T1. Both studied sensitizers were localized mainly in lysosomes and were found to induce cell death by triggering apoptosis in human leukemic cells HL-60. In 4T1 and other cell lines both apoptotic and necrotic modes of cell death occurred depending on drug and light doses. Mono-cyclodextrin porphyrin derivative P(beta-CD)1 exhibited stronger in vitro phototoxic effect than bis-cyclodextrin derivative P(beta-CD)2. However, in vivo P(beta-CD)2 displayed faster tumor uptake with maximal accumulation 6 h after application, leading to complete and prolonged elimination of subcutaneous tumors within 3 days after irradiation (100 J cm(-2)). In contrast, P(beta-CD)1 uptake was slower (48 h) and the reduction of tumor mass was only transient, reaching the maximum at the 12 h interval when a favorable tumor-to-skin ratio appeared. Thus, P(beta-CD)2 represents a new photosensitizing drug displaying fast and selective tumor uptake, strong antitumor activity and fast elimination from the body.

MICROLENSING OF QUASAR BROAD EMISSION LINES: CONSTRAINTS ON BROAD LINE REGION SIZE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guerras, E.; Mediavilla, E.; Jimenez-Vicente, J.

2013-02-20

We measure the differential microlensing of the broad emission lines between 18 quasar image pairs in 16 gravitational lenses. We find that the broad emission lines are in general weakly microlensed. The results show, at a modest level of confidence (1.8{sigma}), that high ionization lines such as C IV are more strongly microlensed than low ionization lines such as H{beta}, indicating that the high ionization line emission regions are more compact. If we statistically model the distribution of microlensing magnifications, we obtain estimates for the broad line region size of r{sub s} = 24{sup +22} {sub -15} and r{sub s}more » = 55{sup +150} {sub -35} lt-day (90% confidence) for the high and low ionization lines, respectively. When the samples are divided into higher and lower luminosity quasars, we find that the line emission regions of more luminous quasars are larger, with a slope consistent with the expected scaling from photoionization models. Our estimates also agree well with the results from local reveberation mapping studies.« less

Profiles of spectral lines, magnetic fields, and thermodynamical conditions in the X17.2/4B solar flare of 2003 October 28

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lozitsky, V. G.; Baranovsky, E. A.; Lozitska, N. I.; Tarashchuk, V. P.

2018-06-01

We analyse the peak phase of the exclusively powerful solar proton flare of 2003 October 28,which had originated in the active region NOAA 0486. For studying the physical conditions in the flare, we used 12 spectral lines including lines from Fe I, Fe II, and the H α, H β, H γ, H δ lines observed with the Echelle spectrograph of the horizontal solar telescope of the Astronomical Observatory of the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. We found that this flare had a unique Balmer decrement, with the record ratio I (H β)/I(H α) = 1.68 of H β and H α intensities, which is unprecedented for all flares observed. In a place outside sunspots, the effective magnetic field measured by splitting `center of gravity' I ± V profiles was found within the range of 0-200 G in the middle photosphere, till 1200 G in the upper photosphere and the temperature minimum zone and up to 500 G in the chromosphere. The essential broadening of the Fe I 5250.2 line versus the Fe I 5247.1 one was found indicating the presence of a strong (800-1100 G) `turbulent' field in the middle photosphere. A semi-empirical model of the chromosphere constructed using the algorithms in PANDORA code has an interesting peculiarity, namely three discrete layers with an increased concentration and/or temperature, including a very dense and thin layer with the following parameters: the concentration of hydrogen nH = 1018 cm3, the thickness Δh = 3-5 km, and a height of h ≈ 1200 km above the photosphere.

Resolution of the discrepancy between Balmer alpha emission rates, the solar Lyman beta flux, and models of geocoronal hydrogen concentration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levasseur, A.-C.; Meier, R. R.; Tinsley, B. A.

1976-01-01

New satellite Balmer alpha measurements and solar Lyman beta flux and line profile measurements, together with new measurements of the zodiacal light intensity used in correcting both ground and satellite Balmer alpha measurements for the effects of the Fraunhofer line in the zodiacal light, have been used in a reevaluation of the long-standing discrepancy between ground-based Balmer alpha emission rates and other geocoronal hydrogen parameters. The solar Lyman beta line center flux is found to be (4.1 plus or minus 1.3) billion photons per sq cm per sec per angstrom at S(10.7) equals 110 and, together with a current hydrogen model which has 92,000 atoms per cu cm at 650 km for T(inf) equals 950 K, gives good agreement between calculated Balmer alpha emission rates and the ground-based and satellite measurements.

Relative quantification of beta-casein expression in primary goat mammary epithelial cell lines.

PubMed

Ogorevc, J; Dovč, P

2015-04-15

Primary mammary epithelial cell cultures were established from mammary tissue of lactating and non-lactating goats to assess the expression of beta-casein (CSN2) in vitro. Primary cell cultures were established by enzymatic digestion of mammary tissue and characterized using antibodies against cytokeratin 14, cytokeratin 18, and vimentin. The established primary cell lines in the second passage were grown in basal medium on plastic and in hormone-supplemented (lactogenic) medium on plastic and on an extracellular matrix-covered surface, respectively. CSN2 gene expression was evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The presence of CSN2 transcripts was detected in all samples, including cells originating from non-lactating goat, grown in basal medium. The presence of CSN2 protein was confirmed using immunofluorescence. Response to the hormonal treatment and cell morphology differed between the cell lines and treatments. In 2 cell lines supplemented with lactogenic hormones in the medium, CSN2 expression was increased, while CSN2 levels in one of the cell lines remained constant, regardless of the treatment. Addition of extracellular matrix showed positive effects on CSN2 transcription activity in 1 of the cell lines, while in the other 2 showed no statistically significant effects. CSN2 expression appeared to depend on subtle differences in physiological state of the starting tissue material, growth conditions, cell types present in the culture, and methods used for cell culture establishment. Further studies are necessary to identify factors that determine hormone-responsiveness and transcriptional activity of milk protein genes in goat primary mammary cell cultures.

Mycophenolate mofetil modulates adhesion receptors of the beta1 integrin family on tumor cells: impact on tumor recurrence and malignancy

PubMed Central

Engl, Tobias; Makarević, Jasmina; Relja, Borna; Natsheh, Iyad; Müller, Iris; Beecken, Wolf-Dietrich; Jonas, Dietger; Blaheta, Roman A

2005-01-01

Background Tumor development remains one of the major obstacles following organ transplantation. Immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus directly contribute to enhanced malignancy, whereas the influence of the novel compound mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) on tumor cell dissemination has not been explored. We therefore investigated the adhesion capacity of colon, pancreas, prostate and kidney carcinoma cell lines to endothelium, as well as their beta1 integrin expression profile before and after MMF treatment. Methods Tumor cell adhesion to endothelial cell monolayers was evaluated in the presence of 0.1 and 1 μM MMF and compared to unstimulated controls. beta1 integrin analysis included alpha1beta1 (CD49a), alpha2beta1 (CD49b), alpha3beta1 (CD49c), alpha4beta1 (CD49d), alpha5beta1 (CD49e), and alpha6beta1 (CD49f) receptors, and was carried out by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Results Adhesion of the colon carcinoma cell line HT-29 was strongly reduced in the presence of 0.1 μM MMF. This effect was accompanied by down-regulation of alpha3beta1 and alpha6beta1 surface expression and of alpha3beta1 and alpha6beta1 coding mRNA. Adhesion of the prostate tumor cell line DU-145 was blocked dose-dependently by MMF. In contrast to MMF's effects on HT-29 cells, MMF dose-dependently up-regulated alpha1beta1, alpha2beta1, alpha3beta1, and alpha5beta1 on DU-145 tumor cell membranes. Conclusion We conclude that MMF possesses distinct anti-tumoral properties, particularly in colon and prostate carcinoma cells. Adhesion blockage of HT-29 cells was due to the loss of alpha3beta1 and alpha6beta1 surface expression, which might contribute to a reduced invasive behaviour of this tumor entity. The enhancement of integrin beta1 subtypes observed in DU-145 cells possibly causes re-differentiation towards a low-invasive phenotype. PMID:15644133

THE FORMATION OF IRIS DIAGNOSTICS. II. THE FORMATION OF THE Mg II h and k LINES IN THE SOLAR ATMOSPHERE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leenaarts, J.; Pereira, T. M. D.; Carlsson, M.

NASA's Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) small explorer mission will study how the solar atmosphere is energized. IRIS contains an imaging spectrograph that covers the Mg II h and k lines as well as a slit-jaw imager centered at Mg II k. Understanding the observations requires forward modeling of Mg II h and k line formation from three-dimensional (3D) radiation-magnetohydrodynamic (RMHD) models. This paper is the second in a series where we undertake this modeling. We compute the vertically emergent h and k intensity from a snapshot of a dynamic 3D RMHD model of the solar atmosphere, and investigate whichmore » diagnostic information about the atmosphere is contained in the synthetic line profiles. We find that the Doppler shift of the central line depression correlates strongly with the vertical velocity at optical depth unity, which is typically located less than 200 km below the transition region (TR). By combining the Doppler shifts of the h and k lines we can retrieve the sign of the velocity gradient just below the TR. The intensity in the central line depression is anti-correlated with the formation height, especially in subfields of a few square Mm. This intensity could thus be used to measure the spatial variation of the height of the TR. The intensity in the line-core emission peaks correlates with the temperature at its formation height, especially for strong emission peaks. The peaks can thus be exploited as a temperature diagnostic. The wavelength difference between the blue and red peaks provides a diagnostic of the velocity gradients in the upper chromosphere. The intensity ratio of the blue and red peaks correlates strongly with the average velocity in the upper chromosphere. We conclude that the Mg II h and k lines are excellent probes of the very upper chromosphere just below the TR, a height regime that is impossible to probe with other spectral lines. They also provide decent temperature and velocity diagnostics of the middle

The Promiscuity of [beta]-Strand Pairing Allows for Rational Design of [beta]-Sheet Face Inversion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Makabe, Koki; Koide, Shohei

2009-06-17

Recent studies suggest the dominant role of main-chain H-bond formation in specifying {beta}-sheet topology. Its essentially sequence-independent nature implies a large degree of freedom in designing {beta}-sheet-based nanomaterials. Here we show rational design of {beta}-sheet face inversions by incremental deletions of {beta}-strands from the single-layer {beta}-sheet of Borrelia outer surface protein A. We show that a {beta}-sheet structure can be maintained when a large number of native contacts are removed and that one can design large-scale conformational transitions of a {beta}-sheet such as face inversion by exploiting the promiscuity of strand-strand interactions. High-resolution X-ray crystal structures confirmed the success ofmore » the design and supported the importance of main-chain H-bonds in determining {beta}-sheet topology. This work suggests a simple but effective strategy for designing and controlling nanomaterials based on {beta}-rich peptide self-assemblies.« less

Comparative proteome analysis of drought-sensitive and drought-tolerant rapeseed roots and their hybrid F1 line under drought stress.

PubMed

Mohammadi, Payam Pour; Moieni, Ahmad; Komatsu, Setsuko

2012-11-01

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), which is the third leading source of vegetable oil, is sensitive to drought stress during the early vegetative growth stage. To investigate the initial response of rapeseed to drought stress, changes in the protein expression profiles of drought-sensitive (RGS-003) and drought-tolerant lines (SLM-003), and their F1 hybrid, were analyzed using a proteomics approach. Seven-day-old rapeseed seedlings were treated with drought stress by restricting water for 7 days, and proteins were extracted from roots and separated by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the sensitive rapeseed line, 35 protein spots were differentially expressed under drought stress, and proteins related to metabolism, energy, disease/defense, and transport were decreased. In the tolerant line, 32 protein spots were differentially expressed under drought stress, and proteins involved in metabolism, disease/defense, and transport were increased, while energy-related proteins were decreased. Six protein spots in F1 hybrid were common among expressed proteins in the drought-sensitive and -tolerant lines. Notably, tubulin beta-2 and heat shock protein 70 were decreased in the drought-sensitive line and hybrid F1 plants, while jasmonate-inducible protein and 20S proteasome subunit PAF1 were increased in the F1 hybrids and drought-tolerant line. These results indicate that (1) V-type H(+) ATPase, plasma-membrane associated cation-binding protein, HSP 90, and elongation factor EF-2 have a role in the drought tolerance of rapeseed; (2) The decreased levels of heat shock protein 70 and tubulin beta-2 in the drought-sensitive and hybrid F1 lines might explain the reduced growth of these lines in drought conditions.

Extending the validation of multi-mode model for anomalous transport to high beta poloidal tokamak scenario in DIII-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pankin, A. Y.; Kritz, A. H.; Rafiq, T.; Garofalo, A. M.; Holod, I.; Weiland, J.

2018-05-01

The Multi-Mode Model (MMM7.1) for anomalous transport is tested in predictive modeling of temperature profiles of a high beta poloidal DIII-D discharge. This new H-mode plasma regime, with high beta poloidal and high bootstrap currents, has been studied in DIII-D tokamak discharges [A. Garofalo et al., Nucl. Fusion 55, 123025 (2015)]. The role of instabilities that can drive the anomalous transport described by MMM7.1 is investigated. The temperature profiles for a high beta poloidal DIII-D discharge are computed using the NCLASS model for the neoclassical transport and the Weiland and Electron Temperature Gradient (ETG) components of the MMM7.1 model for the anomalous transport. The neoclassical transport is found to be the main contributor to the ion thermal transport in the plasma core. The contributions from the ion temperature gradient driven modes are found to be important only outside of the internal transport barrier. The magnitudes of the predicted temperature profiles are found to be in a reasonable agreement with experimental profiles. The simulation results approximately reproduce the internal transport barrier in the ion temperature profile but not in the electron temperature profile due to a weak dependence of the ETG driven transport on the Shafranov shift in the ETG component of MMM7.1. Possible effects that can contribute to stabilization of these modes, for example, effects associated with the large beta poloidal such as the Shafranov shift stabilization in the MMM7.1 model, are discussed. It is demonstrated that the E × B flow shear has a relatively small effect in the formation of the internal transport barrier in the high beta poloidal DIII-D discharge 154406. The Shafranov shift (alpha stabilization) and small or reversed magnetic shear profiles are found to be the primary reasons for quenched anomalous transport in this discharge.

The chromospheres of late-type stars. I - Eridani as a test case of multiline modelling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thatcher, John D.; Robinson, Richard D.; Rees, David E.

1991-01-01

A new model of the lower chromosphere of the dwarf K2 star Epsilon Eridani is derived by matching flux profiles of the Ca IR triplet lines 8498 and 8542 A H-alpha and H-beta lines and the Na D lines (all observed simultaneously at the AAT), and the Ca II K line. The coupled non-LTE equations of statistical equilibrium and radiative transfer are solved under the constraint of hydrostatic equilibrium using the Carlsson (1986) code. Within the framework of the model, the Na D lines are an important photospheric diagnostic, and the Ca IR triplet lines can be used to locate the temperature minimum. The computed H-alpha and H-beta depths are highly sensitive constraints on the transition zone gradients and base pressures allowing us to derive a pressure at the base of the transition zone of 0.9 dyn/cm.

The Beta Pictoris circumstellar disk. XV - Highly ionized species near Beta Pictoris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deleuil, M.; Gry, C.; Lagrange-Henri, A.-M.; Vidal-Madjar, A.; Beust, H.; Ferlet, R.; Moos, H. W.; Livengood, T. A.; Ziskin, D.; Feldman, P. D.

1993-01-01

Temporal variations of the Fe II, Mg II, and Al III circumstellar lines towards Beta Pictoris have been detected and monitored since 1985. However, the unusual presence of Al III ions is still puzzling, since the UV stellar flux from an A5V star such as Beta Pic is insufficient to produce such an ion. In order to better define the origin of such a phenomenon, new observations have been carried out to detect faint signatures of other highly ionized species in the short UV wavelength range, where the stellar continuum flux is low. These observations reveal variations not only near the C IV doublet lines, but also in C I and Al II lines, two weakly ionized species, not clearly detectable until now. In the framework of an infalling body scenario, highly ionized species would be created in the tail, far from the comet head, by collisions with ambient gas surrounding the star, or a weak stellar wind. Spectral changes have also been detected near a CO molecular band location, which, if confirmed, would provide the first molecular signature around Beta Pictoris.

Beta-agonists and animal welfare

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The use of beta-agonists in animal feed is a high profile topic within the U.S. as consumers and activist groups continue to question its safety. The only beta-agonist currently available for use in swine is ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC). This is available as Paylean™ (Elanco Animal Health – FDA a...

High beta-N experiments at JET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Challis, Clive

2007-11-01

JET has investigated the performance potential and limitations of highly triangular plasmas relevant to fully non-inductive tokamak operation. The q-profile shape has been varied from cases with highly negative core magnetic shear to low shear with q0 close to 1, allowing the effect on confinement and stability to be studied. Operation with beta-N above the no-wall `limit' has been demonstrated for durations comparable with the resistive time and direct measurements of the no-wall beta have been developed as a tool for systematic performance optimization. Regimes have been developed with ITBs at reduced plasma current and toroidal field (1.2-1.5MA/2.3-2.7T) to obtain high values of beta-N and beta-P with either impurity seeding or quasi-double-null plasma configurations used to mitigate ELMs. The importance of the q-profile shape for performance optimization has been demonstrated in plasmas without ITBs (1.2MA/1.8T) with low values of minimum q (1-2) providing access to the highest beta-N (above 3).

Determination of beta emitters ( 90Sr, 14C and 3H) in routine measurements using plastic scintillation beads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarancón, A.; García, J. F.; Rauret, G.

2004-01-01

Plastic scintillation has recently been shown to be a powerful alternative to liquid scintillation and Cherenkov techniques in radionuclide determination due to the good values obtained for the measurement parameters and the low amount of wastes generated. The present study evaluated the capability of plastic scintillation beads and polyethylene vials for routine measurements of beta emitters ( 90Sr, 14C, 3H). Results show that high- and medium-energetic beta emitters can be quantified with relative errors less than 5% in low-activity aqueous samples, whereas low-energetic beta emitters can only be quantified in medium-activity samples.

STELLAR SURFACE MAGNETO-CONVECTION AS A SOURCE OF ASTROPHYSICAL NOISE. I. MULTI-COMPONENT PARAMETERIZATION OF ABSORPTION LINE PROFILES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cegla, H. M.; Shelyag, S.; Watson, C. A.

2013-02-15

We outline our techniques to characterize photospheric granulation as an astrophysical noise source. A four-component parameterization of granulation is developed that can be used to reconstruct stellar line asymmetries and radial velocity shifts due to photospheric convective motions. The four components are made up of absorption line profiles calculated for granules, magnetic intergranular lanes, non-magnetic intergranular lanes, and magnetic bright points at disk center. These components are constructed by averaging Fe I 6302 A magnetically sensitive absorption line profiles output from detailed radiative transport calculations of the solar photosphere. Each of the four categories adopted is based on magnetic fieldmore » and continuum intensity limits determined from examining three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic simulations with an average magnetic flux of 200 G. Using these four-component line profiles we accurately reconstruct granulation profiles, produced from modeling 12 Multiplication-Sign 12 Mm{sup 2} areas on the solar surface, to within {approx} {+-}20 cm s{sup -1} on a {approx}100 m s{sup -1} granulation signal. We have also successfully reconstructed granulation profiles from a 50 G simulation using the parameterized line profiles from the 200 G average magnetic field simulation. This test demonstrates applicability of the characterization to a range of magnetic stellar activity levels.« less

Characterization of a beta-lactamase produced in Mycobacterium fortuitum D316.

PubMed Central

Amicosante, G; Franceschini, N; Segatore, B; Oratore, A; Fattorini, L; Orefici, G; Van Beeumen, J; Frere, J M

1990-01-01

A beta-lactamase from Mycobacterium fortuitum D316 was purified and some physico-chemical properties and substrate profile determined. On the basis of its N-terminal sequence and of its sensitivity to beta-iodopenicillanate inactivation, the enzyme appeared to be a class A beta-lactamase, but its substrate profile was quite unexpected, since nine cephalosporins were among the eleven best substrates. The enzyme also hydrolysed ureidopenicillins and some so-called 'beta-lactamase-stable' cephalosporins. Images Fig. 1. PMID:2123098

Deuterium and the Local Interstellar Medium: Properties for the Procyon and Capella Lines of Sight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linsky, Jeffrey L.; Diplas, Athanassios; Wood, Brian E.; Brown, Alexander; Ayres, Thomas R.; Savage, Blair D.

1995-01-01

We present Goddard High-Resolution Spectrograph observations of the interstellar H I and D I Ly-alpha lines and the Mg II and Fe II resonance lines formed along the lines of sight toward the nearby stars Procyon (3.5 pc, l = 214 deg, b = 13 deg) and Capella (12.5 pc, l = 163 deg, b = 5 deg). New observations of Capella were obtained at orbital phase 0.80, when the radial velocities of the intrinsic Ly-alpha emission lines of each star were nearly reversed from those of the previous observations at phase 0.26. Since the intrinsic Ly-alpha line of the Capella system (the 'continuum' against which the interstellar absorption is measured) has different shapes at phases 0.26 and 0.80, we can derive both the intrinsic stellar profiles and the interstellar absorption lines more precisely by jointly analyzing the two data sets. For the analysis of the Procyon line of sight, we first assumed that the intrinsic Ly-alpha line profile is a broadened solar profile, but this assumption does not lead to a good fit to the observed D I line profile for any value of D/H. We then assumed that (D/H)(sub LISM) = 1.6 x 10(exp -5), the same value as for the Capella line of sight, and we modified the broadened solar profile to achieve agreement between the simulated and observed line profiles. The resulting asymmetric intrinsic stellar line profile is consistent with the shapes of the scaled Mg II line profiles. We believe therefore that the Procyon data are consistent with (D/H)(sub LISM) = 1.6 x 10(exp -5), but the uncertainty in the intrinsic Ly-alpha emission-line profile does not permit us to conclude that the D/H ratio is constant in the local interstellar medium (LISM). The temperature and turbulence in the Procyon line of sight are T = 6900 +/- 80 (+/- 300 systematic error) K and zeta = 1.21 +/- 0.27 km/s. These properties are similar to those of Capella, except that the gas toward Procyon is divided into two velocity components separated by 2.6 km/s and the Procyon line of sight

Errors associated with fitting Gaussian profiles to noisy emission-line spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lenz, Dawn D.; Ayres, Thomas R.

1992-01-01

Landman et al. (1982) developed prescriptions to predict profile fitting errors for Gaussian emission lines perturbed by white noise. We show that their scaling laws can be generalized to more complicated signal-dependent 'noise models' of common astronomical detector systems.

Mid- and North Atlantic multichannel seismic reflection profiles, 7, 8 A, B, and C, 12 E, F, G, H, I, and J, and 13 A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

1979-01-01

Available are four multichannel profiles collected by Digicon Geophysical Corporation in 1975 using a 48-channel streamer (3600 m long), and a 27.9 cubic liter airgun array. They were processed in Denver on the Phoenix "I" by William C. Petterson. The processing includes demultiplexing and resampling, geometry and common-depth-point, definition, velocity analysis noise muting, band-pass filtering, time-variant filtering, time-variant deconvolution, and automatic gain control (AGC) sealing, prior to the final profile playout.The release includes pares of or all of four lines off the eastern United States (see map) over the Georges Bank basin and the Long Island platform and upper continental rise. These profiles were collected as a part of a regional arid over the offshore Atlantic sedimentary basins as a part of a continuing program to assess the resource potential using non-proprietary data. Lines 7 and 8 are cross-shelf profiles (280 ken and 400 km long respectively) taken across Georges Basin George Bank, the continental slope and rise east of Massachusetts. A five kilometer gap exists in line 8C near the outer edge of the shelf because the high concentration of lobster pots there prevented a continous traverse through the area. Line 12 (shotpoint 5988 - 14380, parts E, F, G, H, I and J) is along-the-shelf profile, and stretches from the vicinity of Husdon Channel (mid-shelf east of New Jersey) to Browns Bank, 100 km southeast of Nova Scotia, terminating in the vicinity of the Shell Mohawk (B-93) hole. Line 13 (shotpoint 83-11295, 1120 km) traverse the upper Continental rise between Cape Hatteras and Georges Bank.These profiles including velocity scans and shot point maps, may be viewed at U. S. Geological Survey Office, Bldg. B, Quissett Campus, Woods Hole, MA., and U. S. Geological Survey Office, Bldg. 25 at the Denver Federal Center. Copies of maps, scans and profiles can be purchased from the National Geophysical Solar-Terrestrial Data center, Environmental

TGF-beta inhibits IL-1beta-activated PAR-2 expression through multiple pathways in human primary synovial cells.

PubMed

Tsai, Shin-Han; Sheu, Ming-Thau; Liang, Yu-Chih; Cheng, Hsiu-Tan; Fang, Sheng-Shiung; Chen, Chien-Ho

2009-10-23

To investigate the mechanism how Transforming growth factor-beta(TGF-beta) represses Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta)-induced Proteinase-Activated Receptor-2 (PAR-2) expression in human primary synovial cells (hPSCs). Human chondrocytes and hPSCs isolated from cartilages and synovium of Osteoarthritis (OA) patients were cultured with 10% fetal bovine serum media or serum free media before treatment with IL-1beta, TGF-beta1, or Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). The expression of PAR-2 was detected using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting. Collagen zymography was performed to assess the activity of Matrix metalloproteinases-13 (MMP-13). It was demonstrated that IL-1beta induces PAR-2 expression via p38 pathway in hPSCs. This induction can be repressed by TGF-beta and was observed to persist for at least 48 hrs, suggesting that TGF-beta inhibits PAR-2 expression through multiple pathways. First of all, TGF-beta was able to inhibit PAR-2 activity by inhibiting IL-1beta-induced p38 signal transduction and secondly the inhibition was also indirectly due to MMP-13 inactivation. Finally, TGF-beta was able to induce CTGF, and in turn CTGF represses PAR-2 expression by inhibiting IL-1beta-induced phospho-p38 level. TGF-beta could prevent OA from progression with the anabolic ability to induce CTGF production to maintain extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity and to down regulate PAR-2 expression, and the anti-catabolic ability to induce Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) production to inhibit MMPs leading to avoid PAR-2 over-expression. Because IL-1beta-induced PAR-2 expressed in hPSCs might play a significantly important role in early phase of OA, PAR-2 repression by exogenous TGF-beta or other agents might be an ideal therapeutic target to prevent OA from progression.

Absorption line profiles in a companion spectrum of a mass losing cool supergiant

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodrigues, Liliya L.; Boehm-Vitense, Erika

1990-01-01

Cool star winds can best be observed in resonance absorption lines seen in the spectrum of a hot companion, due to the wind passing in front of the blue star. We calculated absorption line profiles that would be seen in the ultraviolet part of the blue companion spectrum. Line profiles are derived for different radial dependences of the cool star wind and for different orbital phases of the binary. Bowen and Wilson find theoretically that stellar pulsations drive mass loss. We therefore apply our calculations to the Cepheid binary S Muscae which has a B5V companion. We find an upper limit for the Cepheid mass loss of M less than or equal to 7 x 10(exp -10) solar mass per year provided that the stellar wind of the companion does not influence the Cepheid wind at large distances.

PDR MODEL MAPPING OF OBSCURED H{sub 2} EMISSION AND THE LINE-OF-SIGHT STRUCTURE OF M17-SW

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sheffer, Y.; Wolfire, M. G.

2013-09-01

We observed H{sub 2} line emission with Spitzer-IRS toward M17-SW and modeled the data with our photon-dominated region (PDR) code. Derived gas density values of up to few times 10{sup 7} cm{sup -3} indicate that H{sub 2} emission originates in high-density clumps. We discover that the PDR code can be utilized to map the amount of intervening extinction obscuring the H{sub 2} emission layers, and thus we obtain the radial profile of A{sub V} relative to the central ionizing cluster NGC 6618. The extinction has a positive radial gradient, varying between 15-47 mag over the projected distance of 0.9-2.5 pcmore » from the primary ionizer, CEN 1. These high extinction values are in good agreement with previous studies of A{sub V} toward stellar targets in M17-SW. The ratio of data to PDR model values is used to infer the global line-of-sight structure of the PDR surface, which is revealed to resemble a concave surface relative to NGC 6618. Such a configuration confirms that this PDR can be described as a bowl-shaped boundary of the central H II region in M17. The derived structure and physical conditions are important for interpreting the fine-structure and rotational line emission from the PDR.« less

Evidence of redshifts in the average solar line profiles of C IV and Si IV from OSO-8 observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roussel-Dupre, D.; Shine, R. A.

1982-01-01

Line profiles of C IV and Si V obtained by the Colorado spectrometer on OSO-8 are presented. It is shown that the mean profiles are redshifted with a magnitude varying from 6-20 km/s, and with a mean of 12 km/s. An apparent average downflow of material in the 50,000-100,000 K temperature range is measured. The redshifts are observed in the line center positions of spatially and temporally averaged profiles and are measured either relative to chromospheric Si I lines or from a comparison of sun center and limb profiles. The observations of 6-20 km/s redshifts place constraints on the mechanisms that dominate EUV line emission since it requires a strong weighting of the emission in regions of downward moving material, and since there is little evidence for corresponding upward moving materials in these lines.

Evaluation of partial beta-adrenoceptor agonist activity.

PubMed

Lipworth, B J; Grove, A

1997-01-01

A partial beta-adrenoceptor (beta-AR) agonist will exhibit opposite agonist and antagonist activity depending on the prevailing degree of adrenergic tone or the presence of a beta-AR agonist with higher intrinsic activity. In vivo partial beta-AR agonist activity will be evident at rest with low endogenous adrenergic tone, as for example with chronotropicity (beta 1/beta 2), inotropicity (beta 1) or peripheral vasodilatation and finger tremor (beta 2). beta-AR blocking drugs which have partial agonist activity may exhibit a better therapeutic profile when used for hypertension because of maintained cardiac output without increased systemic vascular resistance, along with an improved lipid profile. In the presence of raised endogenous adrenergic tone such as exercise or an exogenous full agonist, beta-AR subtype antagonist activity will become evident in terms of effects on exercise induced heart rate (beta 1) and potassium (beta 2) responses. Reduction of exercise heart rate will occur to a lesser degree in the case of a beta-adrenoceptor blocker with partial beta 1-AR agonist activity compared with a beta-adrenoceptor blocker devoid of partial agonist activity. This may result in reduced therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of angina on effort when using beta-AR blocking drugs with partial beta 1-AR agonist activity. Effects on exercise hyperkalaemia are determined by the balance between beta 2-AR partial agonist activity and endogenous adrenergic activity. For predominantly beta 2-AR agonist such as salmeterol and salbutamol, potentiation of exercise hyperkalaemia occurs. For predominantly beta 2-AR antagonists such as carteolol, either potentiation or attenuation of exercise hyperkalaemia occurs at low and high doses respectively. beta 2-AR partial agonist activity may also be expressed as antagonism in the presence of an exogenous full agonist, as for example attenuation of fenoterol induced responses by salmeterol. Studies are required to investigate whether

Distinct spatio-temporal profiles of beta-oscillations within visual and sensorimotor areas during action recognition as revealed by MEG.

PubMed

Pavlidou, Anastasia; Schnitzler, Alfons; Lange, Joachim

2014-05-01

The neural correlates of action recognition have been widely studied in visual and sensorimotor areas of the human brain. However, the role of neuronal oscillations involved during the process of action recognition remains unclear. Here, we were interested in how the plausibility of an action modulates neuronal oscillations in visual and sensorimotor areas. Subjects viewed point-light displays (PLDs) of biomechanically plausible and implausible versions of the same actions. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG), we examined dynamic changes of oscillatory activity during these action recognition processes. While both actions elicited oscillatory activity in visual and sensorimotor areas in several frequency bands, a significant difference was confined to the beta-band (∼20 Hz). An increase of power for plausible actions was observed in left temporal, parieto-occipital and sensorimotor areas of the brain, in the beta-band in successive order between 1650 and 2650 msec. These distinct spatio-temporal beta-band profiles suggest that the action recognition process is modulated by the degree of biomechanical plausibility of the action, and that spectral power in the beta-band may provide a functional interaction between visual and sensorimotor areas in humans. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A long-term study of H(alpha) line variations in FK Comae Berenices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Welty, Alan D.; Ramsey, Lawrence W.; Iyengar, Mrinal; Nations, Harold L.; Buzasi, Derek L.

1993-01-01

We present observations of H(alpha) V/R ratio variations in FK Comae Berencies obtained during several observing seasons from 1981 to 1992. The raw H(alpha) emission profile is always observed to be double peaked due to the stellar-absorption component. During the most years the V/R ratio varies regularly with the period of the photometric light curve. The V/R periodicity is most obvious when time spans no longer than several stellar rotations are considered. We propose that the bulk of the emission component of the H(alpha) line arises in corotating circumstellar material that may be similar to that of a quiescent solar prominence. The lifetime of these structures appears to be on the order of weeks. A weak contribution from a circumstellar disk is evident and chromospheric emission may also be present. The appearance or disappearance of circumstellar structures over periods longer than a few weeks, or the total absence of such structures, blurs the more regular variations in H(alpha) seen over short time scales. Other more stochastic activity, such as flares, also clearly occurs. Phase shifts of the V/R ratio from year to year rule out the hypothesis that mass tranfer in a close binary system is responsible for the V/R variations.

Measurement of the profile and intensity of the solar He I lambda 584-A resonance line

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maloy, J. O.; Hartmann, U. G.; Judge, D. L.; Carlson, R. W.

1978-01-01

The intensity and profile of the helium resonance line at 584 A from the entire disk of the sun was investigated by using a rocket-borne helium-filled spectrometer and a curve-of-growth technique. The line profile was found to be accurately represented by a Gaussian profile with full width at half maximum of 122 + or - 10 mA, while the integrated intensity was measured to be 2.6 + or - 1.3 billion photons/s per sq cm at solar activity levels of F(10.7) = 90.8 x 10 to the -22nd per sq m/Hz and Rz = 27. The measured line width is in good agreement with previous spectrographic measurements, but the integrated intensity is larger than most previous photoelectric measurements. However, the derived line center flux of 20 + or - 10 billion photons/s per sq cm/A is in good agreement with values inferred from airglow measurements.

ExoMol line lists XXVIII: The rovibronic spectrum of AlH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yurchenko, Sergei N.; Williams, Henry; Leyland, Paul C.; Lodi, Lorenzo; Tennyson, Jonathan

2018-06-01

A new line list for AlH is produced. The WYLLoT line list spans two electronic states X 1Σ+ and A 1Π. A diabatic model is used to model the shallow potential energy curve of the A 1Π state, which has a strong pre-dissociative character with only two bound vibrational states. Both potential energy curves are empirical and were obtained by fitting to experimentally derived energies of the X 1Σ+ and A 1Π electronic states using the diatomic nuclear motion codes DPOTFIT and DUO. High temperature line lists plus partition functions and lifetimes for three isotopologues 27AlH, 27AlD and 26AlH were generated using ab initio dipole moments. The line lists cover both the X-X and A-X systems and are made available in electronic form at the CDS and ExoMol databases.

Characterization of beta-turn and Asx-turns mimicry in a model peptide: stabilization via C--H . . . O interaction.

PubMed

Thakur, A K; Kishore, R

2006-04-15

The chemical synthesis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of a model peptide, Boc-Thr-Thr-NH2 (1) comprised of proteinogenic residues bearing an amphiphilic Cbeta -stereogenic center, has been described. Interestingly, the analysis of its molecular structure revealed the existence of a distinct conformation that mimics a typical beta-turn and Asx-turns, i.e., the two Thr residues occupy the left- and right-corner positions. The main-chain torsion angles of the N- and C-terminal residues i.e., semiextended: phi = -68.9 degrees , psi = 128.6 degrees ; semifolded: phi = -138.1 degrees , psi = 2.5 degrees conformations, respectively, in conjunction with a gauche- disposition of the obligatory C-terminus Thr CgammaH3 group, characterize the occurrence of the newly described beta-turn- and Asx-turns-like topology. The preferred molecular structure is suggested to be stabilized by an effective nonconventional main-chain to side-chain Ci=O . . . H--Cgamma(i+2)-type intraturn hydrogen bond. Noteworthy, the observed topology of the resulting 10-membered hydrogen-bonded ring is essentially similar to the one perceived for a classical beta-turn and the Asx-turns, stabilized by a conventional intraturn hydrogen bond. Considering the signs as well as magnitudes of the backbone torsion angles and the orientation of the central peptide bond, the overall mimicked topology resembles the type II beta-turn or type II Asx-turns. An analysis of Xaa-Thr sequences in high-resolution X-ray elucidated protein structures revealed the novel topology prevalence in functional proteins (unpublished). In view of indubitable structural as well as functional importance of nonconventional interactions in bioorganic and biomacromolecules, we intend to highlight the participation of Thr CgammaH in the creation of a short-range C=O . . . H--Cgamma -type interaction in peptides and proteins. Copyright 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Gene expression profiling of breast cancer cell lines treated with proton and electron radiations.

PubMed

Bravatà, Valentina; Minafra, Luigi; Cammarata, Francesco Paolo; Pisciotta, Pietro; Lamia, Debora; Marchese, Valentina; Manti, Lorenzo; Cirrone, Giuseppe Ap; Gilardi, Maria Carla; Cuttone, Giacomo; Forte, Giusi Irma; Russo, Giorgio

2018-06-11

Technological advances in radiation therapy are evolving with the use of hadrons, such as protons, indicated for tumors where conventional radiotherapy does not give significant advantages or for tumors located in sensitive regions, which need the maximum of dose-saving of the surrounding healthy tissues. The genomic response to conventional and non conventional Linear Energy Transfer exposure is a poor investigated topic and became an issue of radiobiological interest. The aim of this work was to analyze and compare molecular responses in term of gene expression profiles, induced by electron and proton irradiation in breast cancer cell lines. We studied the gene expression profiling differences by cDNA microarray activated in response to electron and proton irradiation with different Linear Energy Transfer values, among three breast cell lines (the tumorigenic MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 and the non tumorigenic MCF10A), exposed to the same sub-lethal dose of 9 Gy. Gene expression profiling pathway analyses showed the activation of different signaling and molecular networks in a cell line and radiation type-dependent manner. MCF10A and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were found to induce factors and pathways involved in the immunological process control. Here we describe in a detailed way the gene expression profiling and pathways activated after electron and proton irradiation in breast cancer cells. Summarizing, although specific pathways are activated in a radiation type-dependent manner, each cell line activates overall similar molecular networks in response to both these two types of ionizing radiation. Advances in knowledge: In the era of personalized medicine and breast cancer target-directed intervention, we trust that this study could drive radiation therapy towards personalized treatments, evaluating possible combined treatments, based on the molecular characterization.

Down-regulation of the CSLF6 gene results in decreased (1,3;1,4)-beta-D-glucan in endosperm of wheat.

PubMed

Nemeth, Csilla; Freeman, Jackie; Jones, Huw D; Sparks, Caroline; Pellny, Till K; Wilkinson, Mark D; Dunwell, Jim; Andersson, Annica A M; Aman, Per; Guillon, Fabienne; Saulnier, Luc; Mitchell, Rowan A C; Shewry, Peter R

2010-03-01

(1,3;1,4)-beta-d-Glucan (beta-glucan) accounts for 20% of the total cell walls in the starchy endosperm of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and is an important source of dietary fiber for human nutrition with potential health benefits. Bioinformatic and array analyses of gene expression profiles in developing caryopses identified the CELLULOSE SYNTHASE-LIKE F6 (CSLF6) gene as encoding a putative beta-glucan synthase. RNA interference constructs were therefore designed to down-regulate CSLF6 gene expression and expressed in transgenic wheat under the control of a starchy endosperm-specific HMW subunit gene promoter. Analysis of wholemeal flours using an enzyme-based kit and by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography after digestion with lichenase showed decreases in total beta-glucan of between 30% and 52% and between 36% and 53%, respectively, in five transgenic lines compared to three control lines. The content of water-extractable beta-glucan was also reduced by about 50% in the transgenic lines, and the M(r) distribution of the fraction was decreased from an average of 79 to 85 x 10(4) g/mol in the controls and 36 to 57 x 10(4) g/mol in the transgenics. Immunolocalization of beta-glucan in semithin sections of mature and developing grains confirmed that the impact of the transgene was confined to the starchy endosperm with little or no effect on the aleurone or outer layers of the grain. The results confirm that the CSLF6 gene of wheat encodes a beta-glucan synthase and indicate that transgenic manipulation can be used to enhance the health benefits of wheat products.

Expression of modified tocopherol content and profile in sunflower tissues.

PubMed

Del Moral, Lidia; Fernández-Martínez, José M; Pérez-Vich, Begoña; Velasco, Leonardo

2012-01-30

Alpha-tocopherol is the predominant tocopherol form in sunflower seeds. Sunflower lines that accumulate increased levels of beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherol in seeds as well as lines with reduced and increased total seed tocopherol content have been developed. The objective of this research was to evaluate whether the modified tocopherol levels are expressed in plant tissues other than seeds. Lines with increased levels of beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherol in seeds also possessed increased levels of these tocopherols in leaves, roots and pollen. Correlation coefficients for the proportion of individual tocopherols in different plant tissues were significantly positive in all cases, ranging from 0.68 to 0.97. A line with reduced tocopherol content in seeds also showed reduced content in roots and pollen. Genetic modifications producing altered seed tocopherol profiles in sunflower are also expressed in leaves, roots and pollen. Reduced total seed tocopherol content is mainly expressed at the root and pollen level. The expression of tocopherol mutations in other plant tissues will enable further studies on the physiological role of tocopherols and could be of interest for early selection for these traits in breeding programmes. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

Geocoronal Balmer α line profile observations and forward-model analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mierkiewicz, E. J.; Bishop, J.; Roesler, F. L.; Nossal, S. M.

2006-05-01

High spectral resolution geocoronal Balmer α line profile observations from Pine Bluff Observatory (PBO) are presented in the context of forward-model analysis. Because Balmer series column emissions depend significantly on multiple scattering, retrieval of hydrogen parameters of general aeronomic interest from these observations (e.g., the hydrogen column abundance) currently requires a forward modeling approach. This capability is provided by the resonance radiative transfer code LYAO_RT. We have recently developed a parametric data-model comparison search procedure employing an extensive grid of radiative transport model input parameters (defining a 6-dimensional parameter space) to map-out bounds for feasible forward model retrieved atomic hydrogen density distributions. We applied this technique to same-night (March, 2000) ground-based Balmer α data from PBO and geocoronal Lyman β measurements from the Espectrógrafo Ultravioleta extremo para la Radiación Difusa (EURD) instrument on the Spanish satellite MINISAT-1 (provided by J.F. Gómez and C. Morales of the Laboratorio de Astrofisica Espacial y Física Fundamental, INTA, Madrid, Spain) in order to investigate the modeling constraints imposed by two sets of independent geocoronal intensity measurements, both of which rely on astronomical calibration methods. In this poster we explore extending this analysis to the line profile information also contained in the March 2000 PBO Balmer α data set. In general, a decrease in the Doppler width of the Balmer α emission with shadow altitude is a persistent feature in every night of PBO observations in which a wide range of shadow altitudes are observed. Preliminary applications of the LYAO_RT code, which includes the ability to output Doppler line profiles for both the singly and multiply scattered contributions to the Balmer α emission line, displays good qualitative agreement with regard to geocoronal Doppler width trends observed from PBO. Model-data Balmer

Estimation of Mass-Loss Rate for M Giants from UV Emission Line Profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carpenter, Kenneth G.; Robinson, R. D.; Fisher, Richard R. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The photon-scattering winds of M giants produce absorption features in the strong chromospheric emission lines. These provide us with an opportunity to assess important parameters of the wind, including flow and turbulent velocities, the optical depth of the wind above the region of photon creation, and the star's mass-loss rate. We have used the Lamers et al. (1987) Sobolev with Exact Integration (SET) radiative transfer code, along with simple models of the outer atmospheric structure and wind, to determine the wind characteristics of two M-giant stars, gamma Cru (M3.4) and mu Gem (M3IIIab). The SET code has the advantage of being computationally fast and allows a great number of possible wind models to be examined. The analysis procedure involves specifying wind parameters and then using the program to calculate line profiles for the Mg II (UV1) lines and a range of unblended Fe II lines. These lines have a wide range of wind opacities and therefore probe different heights in the atmosphere. The assumed wind properties are iterated until the predicted profiles match the observations over as many lines as possible. We present estimates of the wind parameters for these stars and offer a comparison to wind properties previously-derived for low-gravity K stars using the same technique.

Cross-class resistance to non-beta-lactam antimicrobials in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae.

PubMed

Procop, Gary W; Tuohy, Marion J; Wilson, Deborah A; Williams, Delisa; Hadziyannis, Emilia; Hall, Gerri S

2003-08-01

Extended spectrum beta-lactamases are modified beta-lactamase enzymes that impart resistance to third-generation cephalosporins and make all beta-lactam antibiotics and cephalosporins useless for therapy. We compared the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing and non-ESBL-producing isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae. The ESBL producers had significantly diminished susceptibility compared with the non-ESBL producers for gentamicin (P < .001), tobramycin (P < .001), amikacin (P < .005), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (P < .01), ciprofloxacin (P < .001), and nitrofurantoin (P < .001). All isolates were susceptible to imipenem. ESBL-producing K pneumoniae may also be resistant to non-beta-lactam antibiotics. Therefore, susceptibility testing of these isolates is critical for guiding therapy.

Precision Fe K-Alpha and Fe K-Beta Line Spectroscopy of the Seyfert 1.9 Galaxy NGC 2992 with Suzaku

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yaqoob, Tahir; Murphy, Kendrah D.; Griffiths, Richard E.; Haba, Yoshito; Inoue, Hajime; Itoh, Takeshi; Kelley, Richard; Kokubun, Motohide; Markowitz, Alex; Mushotzky, Richard;

Infrared Spectroscopy of Pa-beta and [Fe II] Emission in NGC 4151

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knop, R. A.; Armus, L.; Larkin, J. E.; Matthews, K.; Shupe, D. L.; Soifer, B. T.

1996-01-01

We present spatially resolved 1.24-1.30 micron spectroscopy with a resolution of 240 km/s of the Seyfert 1.5 galaxy NGC 4151. Broad Pa-beta, narrow Pa-beta, and narrow [Fe II] (lambda = 1.2567 micron) emission lines are identified in the spectrum. Additionally, a spatially unresolved narrow component probably due to [S ix] (lambda = 1.25235 micron) is observed on the nucleus. The narrow Pa-beta and [Fe II] lines are observed to be extended over a scale of 5 sec. The spatial variation of the velocity centers of the Pa-beta and [Fe II] lines show remarkable similarity, and additionally show similarities to the velocity structure previously observed in ground based spectroscopy of [O III] emission in NGC 4151. This leads to the conclusion that the [Fe II] emission arises in clouds in the Seyfert narrow line region that are physically correlated with those narrow line clouds responsible for the optical emission. The [Fe II] emission line, however, is significantly wider than the Pa-beta emission line along the full spatial extent of the observed emission. This result suggests that despite the correlation between the bulk kinematics of Pa-beta and [Fe II], there is an additional process, perhaps fast shocks from a wind in the Seyfert nucleus, contributing to the [Fe II] emission.

Side effects of beta-blocker treatments as related to the central nervous system.

PubMed

Dahlöf, C; Dimenäs, E

1990-04-01

During the last decade beta-adrenoceptor antagonists have become one of the first-line treatments for hypertension. Generally, they have been shown to be safe with a low frequency of serious side effects. However, minor subjective symptoms, usually considered to be CNS-related, have been reported for all beta-blockers used. Thus, all beta-blockers on the market seem to have a high benefit:risk ratio; independent of their physicochemical properties and pharmacodynamic profile, however, they seem to cause CNS-related side effects to about the same extent. These minor side effects, the mechanisms of which are unclear, consist of subtle effects on general well being, decreased initiative, a depressed frame of mind, and disturbed sleep. Generally, however, beta-blockers in therapeutic dosages do not affect the qualitative functions of the brain. The results so far available have been obtained primarily by using objective methods. Further comparison has now been initiated using documented subjective methods to investigate whether the objectively documented differences are of any clinical relevance to the patient's quality of life. Although it cannot be claimed with certainty, nonselective beta-blockers seem to cause CNS-related side effects to a greater extent than beta 1-selective blockers. Differences in the degree of hydrophilicity of the beta-blocker are apparently of no clinical relevance in this respect. Rather, the plasma concentration of the beta-blocking drug (degree of beta-blockade) seems to be the major determinant of whether or not CNS-related symptoms appear in susceptible patients.

Proteomic profiling of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells upon TGF-beta stimulation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Daojing; Park, Jennifer S.; Chu, Julia S.F.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into different types of cells, and have tremendous potential for cell therapy and tissue engineering. Transforming growth factor {beta}1 (TGF-{beta}) plays an important role in cell differentiation and vascular remodeling. We showed that TGF-{beta} induced cell morphology change and an increase in actin fibers in MSCs. To determine the global effects of TGF-{beta} on MSCs, we employed a proteomic strategy to analyze the effect of TGF-{beta} on the human MSC proteome. By using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and electrospray ionization coupled to Quadrupole/time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometers, we have generated a proteome reference mapmore » of MSCs, and identified {approx}30 proteins with an increase or decrease in expression or phosphorylation in response to TGF-{beta}. The proteins regulated by TGF-{beta} included cytoskeletal proteins, matrix synthesis proteins, membrane proteins, metabolic enzymes, etc. TGF-{beta} increased the expression of smooth muscle (SM) {alpha}-actin and decreased the expression of gelsolin. Over-expression of gelsolin inhibited TGF-{beta}-induced assembly of SM {alpha}-actin; on the other hand, knocking down gelsolin expression enhanced the assembly of {alpha}-actin and actin filaments without significantly affecting {alpha}-actin expression. These results suggest that TGF-{beta} coordinates the increase of {alpha}-actin and the decrease of gelsolin to promote MSC differentiation. This study demonstrates that proteomic tools are valuable in studying stem cell differentiation and elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms.« less

Synthesis, cytotoxic effect and antiviral activity of 1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)-5-bromo-N4-substituted cytosine and 1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)-5-bromo-4-methoxypyrimidin-2(1H)-one derivatives.

PubMed

Saladino, R; Mezzetti, M; Mincione, E; Palamara, A T; Savini, P; Marini, S

1999-01-01

A convenient and mild synthesis of 5-bromo-N4-substituted-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine and 5-bromo-O4-methyl-1-(beta-D-arabinofuranosyl)pyrimidin-2(1H)-one derivatives by selective oxyfunctionalization of the corresponding 4-thionucleosides with 3,3-dimethyldioxirane is reported. The cytotoxicity and the antiviral activity against parainfluenza 1 (Sendai virus) of all new synthesized products are also reported.

Energetic ion, atom, and molecule reactions and excitation in low-current H2 discharges: H(alpha) Doppler profiles.

PubMed

Petrović, Z Lj; Phelps, A V

2009-12-01

Absolute spectral emissivities for Doppler broadened H(alpha) profiles are measured and compared with predictions of energetic hydrogen ion, atom, and molecule behavior in low-current electrical discharges in H2 at very high electric field E to gas density N ratios E/N and low values of Nd , where d is the parallel-plate electrode separation. These observations reflect the energy and angular distributions for the excited atoms and quantitatively test features of multiple-scattering kinetic models in weakly ionized hydrogen in the presence of an electric field that are not tested by the spatial distributions of H(alpha) emission. Absolute spectral intensities agree well with predictions. Asymmetries in Doppler profiles observed parallel to the electric field at 4H atoms directed toward the cathode and diffusely reflected from the cathode. (1 Td=10(-21) V m(2)) The effects of reflection of hydrogen particles and of changes with cathode material are modeled accurately without adjustable parameters. Maximum measured wavelength shifts result from acceleration of H+ ions and charge transfer to fast H atoms. The Doppler profiles are consistent with models of reactions among H+, H2+, H3 , H, and H2 leading to fast H atoms and then fast excited H(n=3) atoms.

[Changes in levels of chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and its subunit alpha and beta in pregnancy complicated by diabetes (GDM)].

PubMed

Olszewski, J; Szczurowicz, A; Wójcikowski, C

1995-02-01

The aim of the study was estimation of endocrinological function of placenta in pregnancy complicated by GDM. The study were performed on a group 13 women with GDM and 14 women in normal pregnancy. All women with GDM were treat by diet and intensive insulinotherapy with self monitoring levels of glucose. In women with GDM level of fructosamine and HbAlc were significant higher but in normal range. In 28 and 36 week of pregnancy were determined levels of hCG, alpha hCG, beta hCG, in serum. Level of hCG in control group and in women with GDM were respectively 97.29 U/ml vs. 29.29 U/ml, p < 0.01 in 28 week of pregnancy and 77.23 U/ml vs. 37.93 U/ml, p < 0.05 in 36 week. Level of alpha hCG was lower and beta hCG was higher in group with GDM.

The alpha Centauri Line of Sight: D/H Ratio, Physical Properties of Local Interstellar Gas, and Measurement of Heated Hydrogen (The 'Hydrogen Wall') Near the Heliopause

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linsky, Jeffrey L.; Wood, Brian E.

1996-01-01

We analyze high-resolution spectra of the nearby (1.34 pc) stars alpha Cen A (G2 V) and alpha Cen B (K1 V), which were obtained with the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph on the Hubble Space Telescope. The observations consist of echelle spectra of the Mg II 2800 A and Fe II 2599 A resonance lines and the Lyman-alpha lines of hydrogen and deuterium. The interstellar gas has a velocity (v = - 18.0 +/- 0.2 km/s) consistent with the local flow vector proposed for this line of sight by Lailement & Berlin (1992). The temperature and nonthermal velocity inferred from the Fe II, Mg II, and D I line profiles are T = 5400 +/- 500 K and xi = 1.20 +/- 0.25 km/s, respectively. However, single-component fits to the H I Lyman-alpha lines yield a Doppler parameter (b(sub HI) = 11.80 km/s) that implies a significantly warmer temperature of 8350 K, and the velocity of the H I absorption (v = - 15.8 +/- 0.2 km/s) is redshifted by about 2.2 km/s with respect to the Fe II, Mg II, and D I lines. The one-component model of the interstellar gas suggests natural logarithm N base HI = 18.03 +/- 0.01 and D/H = (5.7 +/- 0.2) x 10(exp -6) . These parameters lead to a good fit to the observed spectra, but this model does not explain the higher temperature and redshift of H I relative to the other interstellar lines. The most sensible way to resolve the discrepancy between H(I) and the other lines is to add a second absorption component to the H(I) lines. This second component is hotter (T approx. equals 30,000 K), is redshifted relative to the primary component by 2-4 km/s, and has a column density too low to be detected in the Fe(II), Mg(II), and D(I) lines. We propose that the gas responsible for this component is located near the heliopause, consisting of the heated H I gas from the interstellar medium that is compressed by the solar wind. This so-called 'hydrogen wall' is predicted by recent multifluid gasdynamical models of the interstellar gas and solar wind interaction. Our data

The alpha Centauri Line of Sight: D/H Ratio, Physical Properties of Local Interstellar Gas, and Measurement of Heated Hydrogen (The 'Hydrogen Wall') Near the Heliopause

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linsky, Jeffrey L.; Wood, Brian E.

1996-05-01

We analyze high-resolution spectra of the nearby (1.34 pc) stars alpha Cen A (G2 V) and alpha Cen B (K1 V), which were obtained with the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph on the Hubble Space Telescope. The observations consist of echelle spectra of the Mg II 2800 A and Fe II 2599 A resonance lines and the Lyman-alpha lines of hydrogen and deuterium. The interstellar gas has a velocity (v = - 18.0 +/- 0.2 km/s) consistent with the local flow vector proposed for this line of sight by Lailement & Berlin (1992). The temperature and nonthermal velocity inferred from the Fe II, Mg II, and D I line profiles are T = 5400 +/- 500 K and xi = 1.20 +/- 0.25 km/s, respectively. However, single-component fits to the H I Lyman-alpha lines yield a Doppler parameter (bHI = 11.80 km/s) that implies a significantly warmer temperature of 8350 K, and the velocity of the H I absorption (v = - 15.8 +/- 0.2 km/s) is redshifted by about 2.2 km/s with respect to the Fe II, Mg II, and D I lines. The one-component model of the interstellar gas suggests natural logarithm N base HI = 18.03 +/- 0.01 and D/H = (5.7 +/- 0.2) x 10-6 . These parameters lead to a good fit to the observed spectra, but this model does not explain the higher temperature and redshift of H I relative to the other interstellar lines. The most sensible way to resolve the discrepancy between H(I) and the other lines is to add a second absorption component to the H(I) lines. This second component is hotter (T approx. equals 30,000 K), is redshifted relative to the primary component by 2-4 km/s, and has a column density too low to be detected in the Fe(II), Mg(II), and D(I) lines. We propose that the gas responsible for this component is located near the heliopause, consisting of the heated H I gas from the interstellar medium that is compressed by the solar wind. This so-called 'hydrogen wall' is predicted by recent multifluid gasdynamical models of the interstellar gas and solar wind interaction. Our data provide the

Identification of 17,20beta,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one as an oocyte maturation-inducing steroid in black porgy, Acanthopagrus schlegeli.

PubMed

Yueh, Wen-Shiun; Thomas, Peter; Chang, Ching-Fong

2005-02-01

The identity of the maturation-inducing steroid (MIS) in black porgy, Acanthopagrus schlegeli, a marine protandrous teleost, is unknown. Previous studies demonstrated that two teleost MISs, the progestins 17,20beta,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (20beta-S) and 17,20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP) can induce maturation of black porgy oocytes in vitro. The purpose of the present study was to identify the major progestin produced during oocyte maturation (OM) in black porgy and investigate whether its secretion increases during this process. Females were injected twice with a LHRH analog to induce OM. Ovarian follicles undergoing OM were incubated in vitro with tritiated [3H]pregnenolone precursor and the tritiated products were extracted, purified, and identified by HPLC, TLC, acetylation, and recrystallization. Significant amounts of tritiated products were biosynthesized from [3H]pregnenolone that co-migrated with 20beta-S but not with DHP on HPLC and TLC. Similar TLC profiles were obtained with the tritiated products isolated from the HPLC/TLC 20beta-S fraction and standard 20beta-S after the acetylation reaction. The identity of the tritiated products as 20beta-S was confirmed by recrystallization. 20beta-S had a slightly higher potency than DHP in the inducing in vitro final oocyte maturation. Plasma 20beta-S concentrations increased significantly during the oocyte maturation after injection with a LHRH analog. The present data suggest that 20beta-S is the MIS in black porgy.

Extrapolation of the DIII-D high poloidal beta scenario to ITER steady-state using transport modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McClenaghan, J.; Garofalo, A. M.; Meneghini, O.; Smith, S. P.

2016-10-01

Transport modeling of a proposed ITER steady-state scenario based on DIII-D high βP discharges finds that the core confinement may be improved with either sufficient rotation or a negative central shear q-profile. The high poloidal beta scenario is characterized by a large bootstrap current fraction( 80%) which reduces the demands on the external current drive, and a large radius internal transport barrier which is associated with improved normalized confinement. Typical temperature and density profiles from the non-inductive high poloidal beta scenario on DIII-D are scaled according to 0D modeling predictions of the requirements for achieving Q=5 steady state performance in ITER with ``day one'' H&CD capabilities. Then, TGLF turbulence modeling is carried out under systematic variations of the toroidal rotation and the core q-profile. Either strong negative central magnetic shear or rotation are found to successfully provide the turbulence suppression required to maintain the temperature and density profiles. This work supported by the US Department of Energy under DE-FC02-04ER54698.

Modelling supernova line profile asymmetries to determine ejecta dust masses: SN 1987A from days 714 to 3604

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bevan, Antonia; Barlow, M. J.

2016-02-01

The late-time optical and near-IR line profiles of many core-collapse supernovae exhibit a red-blue asymmetry as a result of greater extinction by internal dust of radiation emitted from the receding parts of the supernova ejecta. We present here a new code, DAMOCLES, that models the effects of dust on the line profiles of core-collapse supernovae in order to determine newly formed dust masses. We find that late-time dust-affected line profiles may exhibit an extended red scattering wing (as noted by Lucy et al. 1989) and that they need not be flux-biased towards the blue, although the profile peak will always be blueshifted. We have collated optical spectra of SN 1987A from a variety of archival sources and have modelled the Hα line from days 714 to 3604 and the [O I] 6300,6363 Å doublet between days 714 and 1478. Our line profile fits rule out day 714 dust masses >3 × 10-3 M⊙ for all grain types apart from pure magnesium silicates, for which no more than 0.07 M⊙ can be accommodated. Large grain radii ( ≥ 0.6 μm) are generally required to fit the line profiles even at the earlier epochs. We find that a large dust mass (≥0.1 M⊙) had formed by day 3604 and infer that the majority of the present dust mass must have formed after this epoch. Our findings agree with recent estimates from spectral energy distribution fits for the dust mass evolution of SN 1987A and support the inference that the majority of SN 1987A's dust formed many years after the initial explosion.

The surface pH of glass ionomer cavity lining agents.

PubMed

Woolford, M J

1989-12-01

It is considered that acid release from the surface of glass ionomer (polyalkenoate) cements may be associated with early pulpal sensitivity following the use of these materials. This study was carried out to examine the surface pH of different types of glass ionomer lining cements using a flat-ended pH electrode. It was found that the surface pH remains low for this group of materials during the first hour of setting. Different types of glass ionomer lining cement were also shown to behave differently when considering acid release from the surface. Conclusions regarding the behaviour of glass ionomers should only be made with reference to the specific material tested.

Investigation of MHD instabilities and control in KSTAR preparing for high beta operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Y. S.; Sabbagh, S. A.; Bialek, J. M.; Berkery, J. W.; Lee, S. G.; Ko, W. H.; Bak, J. G.; Jeon, Y. M.; Park, J. K.; Kim, J.; Hahn, S. H.; Ahn, J.-W.; Yoon, S. W.; Lee, K. D.; Choi, M. J.; Yun, G. S.; Park, H. K.; You, K.-I.; Bae, Y. S.; Oh, Y. K.; Kim, W.-C.; Kwak, J. G.

2013-08-01

Initial H-mode operation of the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) is expanded to higher normalized beta and lower plasma internal inductance moving towards design target operation. As a key supporting device for ITER, an important goal for KSTAR is to produce physics understanding of MHD instabilities at long pulse with steady-state profiles, at high normalized beta, and over a wide range of plasma rotation profiles. An advance from initial plasma operation is a significant increase in plasma stored energy and normalized beta, with Wtot = 340 kJ, βN = 1.9, which is 75% of the level required to reach the computed ideal n = 1 no-wall stability limit. The internal inductance was lowered to 0.9 at sustained H-mode duration up to 5 s. In ohmically heated plasmas, the plasma current reached 1 MA with prolonged pulse length up to 12 s. Rotating MHD modes are observed in the device with perturbations having tearing rather than ideal parity. Modes with m/n = 3/2 are triggered during the H-mode phase but are relatively weak and do not substantially reduce Wtot. In contrast, 2/1 modes to date only appear when the plasma rotation profiles are lowered after H-L back-transition. Subsequent 2/1 mode locking creates a repetitive collapse of βN by more than 50%. Onset behaviour suggests the 3/2 mode is close to being neoclassically unstable. A correlation between the 2/1 mode amplitude and local rotation shear from an x-ray imaging crystal spectrometer suggests that the rotation shear at the mode rational surface is stabilizing. As a method to access the ITER-relevant low plasma rotation regime, plasma rotation alteration by n = 1, 2 applied fields and associated neoclassical toroidal viscosity (NTV) induced torque is presently investigated. The net rotation profile change measured by a charge exchange recombination diagnostic with proper compensation of plasma boundary movement shows initial evidence of non-resonant rotation damping by the n = 1, 2 applied

THE SDSS-III APOGEE SPECTRAL LINE LIST FOR H-BAND SPECTROSCOPY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shetrone, M.; Bizyaev, D.; Chojnowski, D.

We present the H-band spectral line lists adopted by the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment (APOGEE). The APOGEE line lists comprise astrophysical, theoretical, and laboratory sources from the literature, as well as newly evaluated astrophysical oscillator strengths and damping parameters. We discuss the construction of the APOGEE line list, which is one of the critical inputs for the APOGEE Stellar Parameters and Chemical Abundances Pipeline, and present three different versions that have been used at various stages of the project. The methodology for the newly calculated astrophysical line lists is reviewed. The largest of these three line lists containsmore » 134,457 molecular and atomic transitions. In addition to the format adopted to store the data, the line lists are available in MOOG, Synspec, and Turbospectrum formats. The limitations of the line lists along with guidance for its use on different spectral types are discussed. We also present a list of H-band spectral features that are either poorly represented or completely missing in our line list. This list is based on the average of a large number of spectral fit residuals for APOGEE observations spanning a wide range of stellar parameters.« less

CANDIDATE WATER VAPOR LINES TO LOCATE THE H{sub 2}O SNOWLINE THROUGH HIGH-DISPERSION SPECTROSCOPIC OBSERVATIONS. I. THE CASE OF A T TAURI STAR

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Notsu, Shota; Ishimoto, Daiki; Nomura, Hideko

2016-08-20

Inside the H{sub 2}O snowline of protoplanetary disks, water evaporates from the dust-grain surface into the gas phase, whereas it is frozen out onto the dust in the cold region beyond the snowline. H{sub 2}O ice enhances the solid material in the cold outer part of a disk, which promotes the formation of gas-giant planet cores. We can regard the H{sub 2}O snowline as the surface that divides the regions between rocky and gaseous giant planet formation. Thus observationally measuring the location of the H{sub 2}O snowline is crucial for understanding the planetesimal and planet formation processes, and the originmore » of water on Earth. In this paper, we find candidate water lines to locate the H{sub 2}O snowline through future high-dispersion spectroscopic observations. First, we calculate the chemical composition of the disk and investigate the abundance distributions of H{sub 2}O gas and ice, and the position of the H{sub 2}O snowline. We confirm that the abundance of H{sub 2}O gas is high not only in the hot midplane region inside the H{sub 2}O snowline but also in the hot surface layer of the outer disk. Second, we calculate the H{sub 2}O line profiles and identify those H{sub 2}O lines that are promising for locating the H{sub 2}O snowline: the identified lines are those that have small Einstein A coefficients and high upper state energies. The wavelengths of the candidate H{sub 2}O lines range from mid-infrared to sub-millimeter, and they overlap with the regions accessible to the Atacama Large Millimeter/sub-millimeter Array and future mid-infrared high-dispersion spectrographs (e.g., TMT/MICHI, SPICA).« less

A study of polarized spectra of magnetic CP stars: Predicted š. observed Stokes IQUV profiles for beta CrB and 53 Cam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagnulo, S.; Wade, G. A.; Donati, J.-F.; Landstreet, J. D.; Leone, F.; Monin, D. N.; Stift, M. J.

2001-04-01

We present a comparison of observed and calculated Stokes IQUV spectra of two well-known magnetic chemically peculiar stars, beta Coronae Borealis and 53 Camelopardalis. The observed Stokes spectra were recently described by Wade et al. (\\cite{wad00a}), and have been complemented with additional circularly polarized spectra obtained at the Special Astrophysical Observatory. The calculated spectra represent the predictions of new and previously published magnetic field models derived from the analysis of some surface averaged field estimates (e.g., longitudinal field, magnetic field modulus, etc.). We find that these magnetic models are not sufficient to account fully for the observed Stokes profiles - particularly remarkable is the disagreement between the predicted and observed Stokes Q and U profiles of 53 Cam. We suggest that this should be interpreted in terms of magnetic morphologies which are significantly more complex than the second-order multipolar expansions assumed in the models. However, it is clear that some of our inability to reproduce the detailed shapes of the Stokes IQUV profiles is unrelated to the magnetic models. For many metallic ions, for both stars, we found it impossible to account for the strengths and shapes of the observed spectral line profiles when we adopted a unique value for the individual ion abundance. We suggest that this results from strongly non-uniform distributions of these ions as a function of optical depth (i.e., chemical stratification), a hypothesis that is supported by comparison with simple chemically stratified models. Based on observations obtained with the 2 m Bernard Lyot telescope of the Pic-du-Midi Observatory, the 1 m telescope of the Special Astrophysical Observatory, and the 0.9 m telescope of the Osservatorio Astrofisico di Catania.

Inefficiency in GM2 ganglioside elimination by human lysosomal beta-hexosaminidase beta-subunit gene transfer to fibroblastic cell line derived from Sandhoff disease model mice.

PubMed

Itakura, Tomohiro; Kuroki, Aya; Ishibashi, Yasuhiro; Tsuji, Daisuke; Kawashita, Eri; Higashine, Yukari; Sakuraba, Hitoshi; Yamanaka, Shoji; Itoh, Kohji

2006-08-01

Sandhoff disease (SD) is an autosomal recessive GM2 gangliosidosis caused by the defect of lysosomal beta-hexosaminidase (Hex) beta-subunit gene associated with neurosomatic manifestations. Therapeutic effects of Hex subunit gene transduction have been examined on Sandhoff disease model mice (SD mice) produced by the allelic disruption of Hexb gene encoding the murine beta-subunit. We demonstrate here that elimination of GM2 ganglioside (GM2) accumulated in the fibroblastic cell line derived from SD mice (FSD) did not occur when the HEXB gene only was transfected. In contrast, a significant increase in the HexB (betabeta homodimer) activity toward neutral substrates, including GA2 (asialo-GM2) and oligosaccharides carrying the terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues at their non-reducing ends (GlcNAc-oligosaccharides) was observed. Immunoblotting with anti-human HexA (alphabeta heterodimer) serum after native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (Native-PAGE) revealed that the human HEXB gene product could hardly form the chimeric HexA through associating with the murine alpha-subunit. However, co-introduction of the HEXA encoding the human alpha-subunit and HEXB genes caused significant corrective effect on the GM2 degradation by producing the human HexA. These results indicate that the recombinant human HexA could interspeciesly associate with the murine GM2 activator protein to degrade GM2 accumulated in the FSD cells. Thus, therapeutic effects of the recombinant human HexA isozyme but not human HEXB gene product could be evaluated by using the SD mice.

A comparative 2-year study of the effects of sequential regimens of 1 mg 17beta-estradiol and trimegestone with a regimen containing estradiol valerate and norethisterone on the bleeding profile and endometrial safety in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Koninckx, P R; Spielmann, D

2005-08-01

To compare the bleeding profiles and endometrial protection of two sequential regimens of 17beta-estradiol (17beta-E2) and trimegestone (TMG) with a sequential estradiol valerate (E2V)/norethisterone (NET) regimen. This was a randomized, double-blind, multicenter study conducted in eight countries in healthy, postmenopausal women with an intact uterus. A total of 1218 women were enrolled into the initial 1-year study (13 cycles), and subsequently 531 of these received treatment for a further year (26 cycles). Treatment regimens were 1 mg 17beta-E2 on days 1-14 and 1 mg 17beta-E2/0.125 mg TMG or 1 mg 17beta-E2/0.25 mg TMG on days 15-28, and 1 mg E2V on days 1-16 and 1 mg E2V/1 mg NET on days 17-28. Mean percentage of women reporting onset of withdrawal bleeding episodes during the week following discontinuation of progestogen was higher in the 1 mg 17beta-E2/0.25 mg TMG group than in the other two treatments, showing a more efficient progestogen effect on the endometrium and good predictability of bleeding onset with this treatment. The mean numbers and average lengths of bleeding episodes were similar in the three treatment groups. Overall, the bleeding profile was more favorable with 1 mg 17beta-E2/0.25 mg TMG than with the lower-dose TMG preparation. Both of the TMG regimens demonstrated a good protective effect on endometrial proliferation, with the 0.25 mg TMG dose showing a lower incidence of proliferative endometrium. The 1 mg 17beta-E2/0.25 mg TMG regimen showed an adequate protection of the endometrium, with an overall favorable bleeding profile.

Finite Beta Boundary Magnetic Fields of NCSX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grossman, A.; Kaiser, T.; Mioduszewski, P.

2004-11-01

The magnetic field between the plasma surface and wall of the National Compact Stellarator (NCSX), which uses quasi-symmetry to combine the best features of the tokamak and stellarator in a configuration of low aspect ratio is mapped via field line tracing in a range of finite beta in which part of the rotational transform is generated by the bootstrap current. We adopt the methodology developed for W7-X, in which an equilibrium solution is computed by an inverse equilibrium solver based on an energy minimizing variational moments code, VMEC2000[1], which solves directly for the shape of the flux surfaces given the external coils and their currents as well as a bootstrap current provided by a separate transport calculation. The VMEC solution and the Biot-Savart vacuum fields are coupled to the magnetic field solver for finite-beta equilibrium (MFBE2001)[2] code to determine the magnetic field on a 3D grid over a computational domain. It is found that the edge plasma is more stellarator-like, with a complex 3D structure, and less like the ordered 2D symmetric structure of a tokamak. The field lines make a transition from ergodically covering a surface to ergodically covering a volume, as the distance from the last closed magnetic surface is increased. The results are compared with the PIES[3] calculations. [1] S.P. Hirshman et al. Comput. Phys. Commun. 43 (1986) 143. [2] E. Strumberger, et al. Nucl. Fusion 42 (2002) 827. [3] A.H. Reiman and H.S. Greenside, Comput. Phys. Commun. 43, 157 (1986).

beta-Endorphin: synthesis of analogs modified at the carboxyl terminus with increased activites.

PubMed Central

Li, C H; Yamashiro, D; Tseng, L F; Chang, W C; Ferrara, P

1979-01-01

Three analogs of human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP) have been synthesized: [Gly31]beta h-EP, [Gly31]beta h-endorphinamide, and [Gly31]beta h-endorphinylglycine. All are more active than beta h-EP in both the guinea pig ileum bioassay and the opiate receptor binding assay. The last two analogs are about twice as active as beta h-EP in an assay for analgesia. Modification at position 31 and extension at the COOH terminus may afford a route toward analogs with even greater biological activity. PMID:226965

beta-Endorphin: synthesis of analogs modified at the carboxyl terminus with increased activites.

PubMed

Li, C H; Yamashiro, D; Tseng, L F; Chang, W C; Ferrara, P

1979-07-01

Three analogs of human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP) have been synthesized: [Gly31]beta h-EP, [Gly31]beta h-endorphinamide, and [Gly31]beta h-endorphinylglycine. All are more active than beta h-EP in both the guinea pig ileum bioassay and the opiate receptor binding assay. The last two analogs are about twice as active as beta h-EP in an assay for analgesia. Modification at position 31 and extension at the COOH terminus may afford a route toward analogs with even greater biological activity.

Spectral and Temporal Properties of the Alpha and Beta Subunits and (alpha Beta) Monomer Isolated from Nostoc SP. Using Picosecond Laser Spectroscopy.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dagen, Aaron J.

1985-12-01

The fluorescence decay profiles, relative quantum yield and transmission of the (alpha), (beta) and ((alpha)(beta)) complexes from phycoerythrin isolated from the photosynthetic antenna system of Nostoc sp. and measured by single picosecond laser spectroscopic techniques is studied. The fluorescence decay profiles of all three complexes are found to be intensity independent for the intensity range investigated ((TURN)4 x 10('13) to (TURN)4 x 10('15) photons-cm('-2) per pulse). The apparent decrease in the relative quantum yield of all three complexes as intensity increases is offset by a corresponding increase in the relative transmission. This evidence, along with the intensity independent fluorescence kinetics, suggests that exciton annihilation is absent in these complexes. The decay profiles are fit to models assuming energy transfer amongst fluorescing chromophores. The intraprotein transfer rate is found to be 100 ps in the (alpha) subunit, 666 ps in the (beta) subunit. Constraining these rates to be identical in the monomer results in explaining the monomer kinetics by an increase in the nonradiative rate of the f(,(beta)) chromophore, an apparent result of aggregation effects.

Characterization and inhibition of beta-adrenergic receptor kinase in intact myocytes.

PubMed

Laugwitz, K L; Kronsbein, K; Schmitt, M; Hoffmann, K; Seyfarth, M; Schömig, A; Ungerer, M

1997-08-01

beta-Adrenergic receptor kinase (beta ARK) phosphorylates and thereby inactivates agonist-occupied beta-adrenergic receptors (beta AR). beta ARK is thought to play an important role in the regulation of cardiac function. Therefore, we studied beta ARK activation and its inhibition in intact smooth muscle cells and in cardiomyoblasts. beta AR agonist-stimulated translocation of beta ARK was monitored by immunofluorescence labelling with specific antibodies and confocal laser scanning microscopy in DDT-MF 2 hamster smooth muscle cells and in H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts. In unstimulated cells. beta ARK was mainly located in the cytosol. After beta AR agonist stimulation, the beta ARK signal was partially translocated to the membranes. Liposomal gene transfer of the COOH-terminus of beta ARK ('beta ARKmini') as a beta ARK inhibitor led to functional expression of this protein in both cell lines with high efficiency. Western blots with beta ARK antibodies showed a gene concentration-dependent immunoreactivity of the 'beta ARKmini' protein. 'beta ARKmini'-transfected myocytes demonstrated reduced membrane targeting of the beta ARK immuno-fluorescence signal. Additionally, the effect of 'beta ARKmini' on beta AR-induced desensitization of myocytic cAMP accumulation was investigated. In control cells, desensitization with isoproterenol led to a subsequent reduction of beta AR-induced cAMP accumulation. In 'beta ARKmini'-transfected myocytes, this beta AR-induced desensitization was significantly diminished, whereas normal beta AR-induced cAMP accumulation was unaffected. A gene concentration of 2 micrograms 'beta ARKmini' DNA/100,000 cardiomyoblasts, and of 0.7 microgram 'beta ARKmini' DNA/100,000 DDT-MF2 smooth muscle cells led to approximately 5.9- and approximately 5.6-fold overexpressions of 'beta ARKmini' vs. native beta ARK, respectively. These gene doses proved sufficient to attenuate beta-adrenergic desensitization significantly. (1) beta ARK translocation was

Measurement of temperature profiles in flames by emission-absorption spectroscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simmons, F. S.; Arnold, C. B.; Lindquist, G. H.

1972-01-01

An investigation was conducted to explore the use of infrared and ultraviolet emission-absorption spectroscopy for determination of temperature profiles in flames. Spectral radiances and absorptances were measured in the 2.7-micron H2O band and the 3064-A OH band in H2/O2 flames for several temperature profiles which were directly measured by a sodium line-reversal technique. The temperature profiles, determined by inversion of the infrared and ultraviolet spectra, showed an average disagreement with line-reversal measurements of 50 K for the infrared and 200 K for the ultraviolet at a temperature of 2600 K. The reasons for these discrepancies are discussed in some detail.

Beta1-integrin and IL-1alpha expression as bystander effect of medium from irradiated cells: the pilot study.

PubMed

Osterreicher, Jan; Skopek, Jirí; Jahns, Juta; Hildebrandt, Guido; Psutka, Jan; Vilasová, Zdenka; Tanner, Judith Maria; Vogt, Jürgen; Butz, Tilman

2003-01-01

Bystander effects have been proposed as a third action pathway of ionising radiation besides direct and indirect effects. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether expression of interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) and beta1-integrin is elevated in bystander cells as a marker for bystander effects in comparison with classical markers such as the clonogenic assay, apoptosis and the presence of micronuclei. The hybrid cell line E.A. hy.926 obtained by fusion of HUVEC cells with the epithelial cell line A 459 was irradiated with 0-5 Gy. Bystander effects were established via medium transfer at 45 min and 4 h after irradiation from irradiated to nonirradiated cell populations. In order to exclude effects of the irradiated medium itself, irradiated medium only was also used for transfer to nonirradiated cells. Then, cells were fixed at 1, 2, 6, and 24 h after irradiation or medium transport and IL-1alpha and beta1-integrin were detected and evaluated. A higher number of beta1-integrin-positive cells was observed in both irradiated and bystander cell populations than in the control group at 1 and 24 h after irradiation with 1 Gy or medium transfer. Significantly higher numbers of IL-1alpha-positive cells were found at 1, 2, and 6 h after irradiation with 1 Gy or medium transfer as well as at 2 and 6 h after irradiation with 5 Gy or medium transfer. Clonogenic survival decreased dependently on the dose in irradiated cells but did not show any significant difference between the bystander cell populations and sham-irradiated cells. The irradiated medium itself did not have any effect. It is concluded that beta1-integrin and IL-1alpha expression may serve as more sensitive markers of post-irradiation responses in bystander cell populations than the classical radiobiological markers. Moreover, overexpression of beta1-integrin and IL-1alpha may induce increased susceptibility to inflammation of bystander cells.

Thiazolidinedione, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma ligand, modulates the E-cadherin/beta-catenin system in a human pancreatic cancer cell line, BxPC-3.

PubMed

Ohta, Tetsuo; Elnemr, Ayman; Yamamoto, Miyuki; Ninomiya, Itasu; Fushida, Sachio; Nishimura, Gen-Ichi; Fujimura, Takashi; Kitagawa, Hirohisa; Kayahara, Masato; Shimizu, Koichi; Yi, Shuangqin; Miwa, Koichi

2002-07-01

Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma induces terminal differentiation and growth inhibition associated with G1 cell cycle arrest in some cancer cells. The multifunctional molecule beta-catenin performs important roles in intercellular adhesion and signal transduction. However, no report has focused on actions of PPAR-gamma in regulating the E-cadherin/beta-catenin system. We examined whether thiazolidinedione (TZD), a potent PPAR-gamma ligand, could modulate the E-cadherin/beta-catenin system in a human pancreatic cancer cell line, BxPC-3, that has been found to express PPAR-gamma. According to Western blotting, TZD markedly increased differentiation markers including E-cadherin and carcinoembryonic antigen, while beta-catenin did not change significantly. In untreated cells, fluorescence immunostaining demonstrated beta-catenin predominantly in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus; in TZD-treated cells, beta-catenin localization had dramatically shifted to the plasma membrane, in association with increased E-cadherin at this site. Thus, a PPAR-gamma ligand appears to participate not only in induction of differentiation in pancreatic cancer cells, but also in the regulation of the E-cadherin/beta-catenin system. Such ligands may prove clinically useful as cytostatic anticancer agents.

High-resolution H -band Spectroscopy of Be Stars with SDSS-III/APOGEE. II. Line Profile and Radial Velocity Variability

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chojnowski, S. Drew; Holtzman, Jon A.; Wisniewski, John P.

2017-04-01

We report on the H -band spectral variability of classical Be stars observed over the course of the Apache Point Galactic Evolution Experiment (APOGEE), one of four subsurveys comprising SDSS-III. As described in the first paper of this series, the APOGEE B-type emission-line (ABE) star sample was culled from the large number of blue stars observed as telluric standards during APOGEE observations. In this paper, we explore the multi-epoch ABE sample, consisting of 1100 spectra for 213 stars. These “snapshots” of the circumstellar disk activity have revealed a wealth of temporal variability including, but not limited to, gradual disappearance ofmore » the line emission and vice versa over both short and long timescales. Other forms of variability include variation in emission strength, emission peak intensity ratios, and emission peak separations. We also analyze radial velocities (RVs) of the emission lines for a subsample of 162 stars with sufficiently strong features, and we discuss on a case-by-case basis whether the RV variability exhibited by some stars is caused by binary motion versus dynamical processes in the circumstellar disks. Ten systems are identified as convincing candidates for binary Be stars with as of yet undetected companions.« less

Development of an in vitro skin sensitization test using human cell lines; human Cell Line Activation Test (h-CLAT). II. An inter-laboratory study of the h-CLAT.

PubMed

Sakaguchi, H; Ashikaga, T; Miyazawa, M; Yoshida, Y; Ito, Y; Yoneyama, K; Hirota, M; Itagaki, H; Toyoda, H; Suzuki, H

2006-08-01

Recent regulatory changes have placed a major emphasis on in vitro safety testing and alternative models. In regard to skin sensitization tests, dendritic cells (DCs) derived from human peripheral blood have been considered in the development of new in vitro alternatives. Human cell lines have been also reported recently. In our previous study, we suggested that measuring CD86 and/or CD54 expression on THP-1 cells (human monocytic leukemia cell line) could be used as an in vitro skin sensitization method. An inter-laboratory study among two laboratories was undertaken in Japan in order to further develop an in vitro skin sensitization model. In the present study, we used two human cell lines: THP-1 and U-937 (human histiocytic lymphoma cell line). First we optimized our test protocol (refer to the related paper entitled "optimization of the h-CLAT protocol" within this journal) and then we did an inter-laboratory validation with nine chemicals using the optimized protocol. We measured the expression of CD86 and CD54 on the above cells using flow cytometry after a 24h and 48h exposure to six known allergens (e.g., DNCB, pPD, NiSO(4)) and three non-allergens (e.g., SLS, tween 80). For the sample test concentration, four doses (0.1x, 0.5x, 1x, and 2x of the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50))) were evaluated. IC(50) was calculated using MTT assay. We found that allergens/non-allergens were better predicted using THP-1 cells compared to U-937 cells following a 24 h and a 48 h exposure. We also found that the 24h treatment time tended to have a better accuracy than the 48 h treatment time for THP-1 cells. Expression of CD86 and CD54 were good predictive markers for THP-1 cells, but for U-937 cells, expression of CD86 was a better predictor than CD54, at the 24h and the 48 h treatment time. The accuracy also improved when both markers (CD86 and CD54) were used as compared with a single marker for THP-1 cells. Both laboratories gave a good prediction of allergen

Line Profile Measurements of the Lunar Exospheric Sodium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliversen, Ronald J.; Mierkiewicz, Edwin J.; Line, Michael R.; Roesler, Fred L.; Lupie, Olivia L.

2012-01-01

We report ongoing results of a program to measure the lunar sodium exospheric line profile from near the lunar limb out to two lunar radii (approx 3500 km). These observations are conducted from the National Solar Observatory McMath-Pierce telescope using a dual-etalon Fabry-Perot spectrometer with a resolving power of 180,600 (1.7 km/s) to measure line widths and velocity shifts of the Na D2 (5889 950 A) emission line in equatorial and polar regions at different lunar phases. The typical field of view (FOV) is 3 arcmin (approx 360 km) with an occasional smaller 1 arcmin FOV used right at the limb edge. The first data were obtained from full Moon to 3 days following full Moon (waning phase) in March 2009 as part of a demonstration run aimed at establishing techniques for a thorough study of temperatures and velocity variations in the lunar sodium exosphere. These data indicate velocity displacements from different locations off the lunar limb range between 150 and 600 m/s from the lunar rest velocity with a precision of +/- 20 to +/- 50 m/s depending on brightness. The measured Doppler line widths for observations within 10.5 arcmin of the east and south lunar limbs for observations between 5 deg and 40 deg lunar phase imply temperatures ranging decreasing from 3250 +/- 260K to 1175 +/- 150K. Additional data is now being collected on a quarterly basis since March 2011 and preliminary results will be reported.

UBV and H. beta. photometry of faint early-type stars in Crux and Centaurus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Muzzio, J.C.; Feinstein, A.; Orsatti, A.M.

1976-08-01

UBV and H..beta.. photoelectric observations of faint early-type stars in a small region in Crux near the open cluster Hogg 15 and another in Centaurus are presented. The data suggest large absorption in Crux and small absorption in Centaurus. The spread in the distance moduli of the observed stars seems to be in agreement with the view that a spiral arm is seen tangentially near l = 305/sup 0/.

3D Hydrodynamic & Radiative Transfer Models of HETG Line Profiles from Colliding Winds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Russell, Christopher

2016-09-01

Chandra has invested 2.52 Ms of HETG observations into 4 colliding-wind binary (CWB) systems. WR140 and eta Car are massive-star binaries with long periods that produce X-rays in a 3D, warped shock cone, while delta Ori A and HD150136 are short-period systems that show line profile changes due to embedded-wind-shock emission in the primary wind being partially evacuated by the secondary wind. HETG observations resolve the velocity structure in both types of systems. We propose 3D line-profile radiative-transfer calculations on existing 3D hydrodynamic simulations of these 4 CWBs. This is the first confrontation of these data with this level of modeling, and will provide greater understanding of their stellar, wind, and orbital properties, as well as the underlying CWB shock physics.

CAPABILITY TO RECOVER PLUTONIUM-238 IN H-CANYON/HB-LINE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fuller, Kenneth S. Jr.; Smith, Robert H. Jr.; Goergen, Charles R.

2013-01-09

Plutonium-238 is used in Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) to generate electrical power and in Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) to produce heat for electronics and environmental control for deep space missions. The domestic supply of Pu-238 consists of scrap material from previous mission production or material purchased from Russia. Currently, the United States has no significant production scale operational capability to produce and separate new Pu-238 from irradiated neptunium-237 targets. The Department of Energy - Nuclear Energy is currently evaluating and developing plans to reconstitute the United States capability to produce Pu-238 from irradiated Np-237 targets. The Savannah River Site hadmore » previously produced and/or processed all the Pu-238 utilized in Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) for deep space missions up to and including the majority of the plutonium for the Cassini Mission. The previous full production cycle capabilities included: Np-237 target fabrication, target irradiation, target dissolution and Np-237 and Pu-238 separation and purification, conversion of Np-237 and Pu-238 to oxide, scrap recovery, and Pu-238 encapsulation. The capability and equipment still exist and could be revitalized or put back into service to recover and purify Pu-238/Np-237 or broken General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) pellets utilizing existing process equipment in HB-Line Scrap Recovery, and H-anyon Frame Waste Recovery processes. The conversion of Np-237 and Pu-238 to oxide can be performed in the existing HB-Line Phase-2 and Phase-3 Processes. Dissolution of irradiated Np-237 target material, and separation and purification of Np-237 and Pu-238 product streams would be possible at production rates of ~ 2 kg/month of Pu-238 if the existing H-Canyon Frames Process spare equipment were re-installed. Previously, the primary H-Canyon Frames equipment was removed to be replaced: however, the replacement project was stopped. The spare

Synthesis and antitumoral activity of novel 3-(2-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl) and 3-(5-substituted-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl) beta-carboline derivatives.

PubMed

Formagio, Anelise S Nazari; Tonin, Lilian T Düsman; Foglio, Mary Ann; Madjarof, Christiana; de Carvalho, João Ernesto; da Costa, Willian Ferreira; Cardoso, Flávia P; Sarragiotto, Maria Helena

2008-11-15

Several novel 1-substituted-phenyl beta-carbolines bearing the 2-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl and 5-substituted-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl groups at C-3 were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity. The assay results pointed thirteen compounds with growth inhibition effect (GI(50)<100 microM) for all eight different types of human cancer cell lines tested. The beta-carbolines 7a and 7h, bearing the 3-(2-metylthio-1,3,4-oxadiazol-5-yl) group, displayed high selectivity and potent anticancer activity against ovarian cell line with GI(50) values lying in the nanomolar concentration range (GI(50)=10 nM for both compounds). The 1-(N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(5-thioxo-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl) beta-carboline (8g) was the most active compound, showing particular effectiveness on lung (GI(50)=0.06 microM), ovarian and renal cell lines. The potent anticancer activity presented for synthesized compounds 7a, 7h, and 8g, together with their easiness of synthesis, makes these compounds promising anticancer agents.

Line profile variation in delta-Orionis A, l-Orionis A, and 15 Monocerotis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grady, C. A.; Snow, T. P.; Cash, W. C.

1984-01-01

The results of a monitoring program with IUE and Einstein are presented for three stars, delta-Ori A, l-Ori A, and 15 Mon. Line profile variability is observed in the UV profiles accessible to IUE and the relation between the variation in the different ions suggests that the ionization level is varying in the winds of these stars. This is consistent with Einstein observations of soft X-ray variability for two of the stars.

Investigation Of In-Line Monitoring Options At H Canyon/HB Line For Plutonium Oxide Production

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sexton, L.

2015-10-14

H Canyon and HB Line have a production goal of 1 MT per year of plutonium oxide feedstock for the MOX facility by FY17 (AFS-2 mission). In order to meet this goal, steps will need to be taken to improve processing efficiency. One concept for achieving this goal is to implement in-line process monitoring at key measurement points within the facilities. In-line monitoring during operations has the potential to increase throughput and efficiency while reducing costs associated with laboratory sample analysis. In the work reported here, we mapped the plutonium oxide process, identified key measurement points, investigated alternate technologies thatmore » could be used for in-line analysis, and initiated a throughput benefit analysis.« less

Receptor-binding region in human choriogonadotropin/lutropin. beta. subunit

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Keutmann, H.T.; Charlesworth, M.C.; Mason, K.A.

1987-04-01

Synthetic fragments have not been widely used thus far to evaluate structure-activity relations in the glycoprotein hormones. The authors prepared a series of peptides representing the intercysteine loop sequence (residues 38-57) in human choriogonadotropin (hCG) and lutropin (hLH) ..beta.. subunits, anticipating that it might be oriented toward the surface and accessible to receptors. The peptides were characterized chemically and tested for bioactivity by binding to rat ovarian membrane receptor and stimulation of Leydig cell testosterone production. The hCG..beta..-(38-57) and hLH..beta..-(38-57) peptides inhibited binding of /sup 125/I-labeled hCG half-maximally at 1.51 x 10/sup -4/ and 2.03 x 10/sup -5/ M, respectively,more » while other peptide hormones and fragments from elsewhere in the ..beta.. subunit were inactive. Both peptides stimulated testosterone production, with half-maximal responses at 3.55 x 10/sup -5/ M (hCG) and 2.18 x 10/sup -5/ M (hLH). By radioimmunoassay with an antibody to thyroglobulin-conjugated hCG..beta..-(38-57) peptide, native hCG and ..beta.. subunit were highly reactive, as were the reduced and carboxymethylated subunit and peptide. These results indicate that the 38-57 region of ..beta.. subunit is exposed on the surface and constitutes a component in the receptor-binding domain for hCG and hLH. A region of amphipathic-helical structure in the 38-57 sequence may promote hormone-receptor interactions in a manner proposed for several other peptide hormones.« less

Absorption profiles of the potassium 4s-4p and 4p-5s lines perturbed by helium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allard, N. F.

2011-12-01

An accurate determination of the complete profile including the extreme far wing is required to model the contribution of strong alkali resonance lines to brown dwarf spectra. A unified theory of collisional line profiles has been applied for the evaluation of the absorption coefficients of potassium perturbed by helium. Results are reported here from the optical range to the near-infrared.

Fe K Line Profile in Low-Redshift Quasars: Average Shape and Eddington Ratio Dependence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inoue, Hirohiko; Terashima, Yuichi; Ho, Luis C.

2007-06-01

We analyze X-ray spectra of 43 Palomar-Green quasars observed with XMM-Newton in order to investigate their mean Fe K line profile and its dependence on physical properties. The continuum spectra of 39 objects are well reproduced by a model consisting of a power law and a blackbody modified by Galactic absorption. The spectra of the remaining four objects require an additional power-law component absorbed with a column density of ~1023 cm-2. A feature resembling an emission line at 6.4 keV, identified with an Fe K line, is detected in 33 objects. Approximately half of the sample show an absorption feature around 0.65-0.95 keV, which is due to absorption lines and edges of O VII and O VIII. We fit the entire sample simultaneously to derive average Fe line parameters by assuming a common Fe line shape. The Fe line is relatively narrow (σ=0.36 keV), with a center energy of 6.48 keV and a mean equivalent width (EW) of 248 eV. By combining black hole masses estimated from the virial method and bolometric luminosities derived from full spectral energy distributions, we examine the dependence of the Fe K line profile on the Eddington ratio. As the Eddington ratio increases, the line becomes systematically stronger (EW=130-280 eV) and broader (σ=0.1-0.7 keV), and peaks at higher energies (6.4-6.8 keV). This result suggests that the accretion rate onto the black hole directly influences the geometrical structure and ionization state of the accretion disk.

Discordant changes in plasma ACTH and beta-lipotropin/beta-endorphin levels in Cushing's disease patients with depression.

PubMed

Starkman, M N; Schteingart, D E; Schork, M A

1992-11-01

Cushing's Disease is often associated with a depressive syndrome, with mood, vegetative, and cognitive abnormalities of variable severity. In 11 patients with (pituitary ACTH-dependent) Cushing's disease (10 women, 1 man), we studied the relationship between severity of the depressive syndrome and concordance of changes in ACTH and beta-lipotropin/beta-endorphin (beta-LPH/beta-E) levels at baseline and in response to metyrapone and dexamethasone. For each condition, blood samples were drawn at 0800h, 1200h, 1600h, and 2200h. Six patients were categorized as mildly depressed (mean [+/- SD] depressed mood score = 0.17 +/- 0.4; modified Hamilton Depression scale score = 7.6 +/- 4.5) and five as severely depressed (mean depressed mood score = 2.4 +/- 0.5; modified Hamilton Depression scale score = 15 +/- 5.6) (p < 0.05). ACTH and beta-LPH/beta-E were measured by radioimmunoassay. For each experimental condition, changes in levels were scored as concordant if the two peptides moved in parallel between sampling points. There was a relationship between greater severity of depression and more frequent discordant changes in ACTH and beta-LPH/beta-E levels: The six patients with mild depression exhibited 23 concordant and 3 discordant change patterns, while the five patients with severe depression showed 8 concordant and 15 discordant patterns. The mean percentage of concordant patterns per patient differed significantly between the two groups (mildly depressed = 90.0 +/- 16.7; severely depressed = 34.6 +/- 8.7 (p < 0.001). When each study condition was examined separately, differences in the frequency of concordance between the groups reached significance during the post-metyrapone phase and with 8.0 mg dexamethasone administration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Physics-model-based nonlinear actuator trajectory optimization and safety factor profile feedback control for advanced scenario development in DIII-D

DOE PAGES

Barton, Justin E.; Boyer, Mark D.; Shi, Wenyu; ...

2015-07-30

DIII-D experimental results are reported to demonstrate the potential of physics-model-based safety factor profile control for robust and reproducible sustainment of advanced scenarios. In the absence of feedback control, variability in wall conditions and plasma impurities, as well as drifts due to external disturbances, can limit the reproducibility of discharges with simple pre-programmed scenario trajectories. The control architecture utilized is a feedforward + feedback scheme where the feedforward commands are computed off-line and the feedback commands are computed on-line. In this work, firstly a first-principles-driven (FPD), physics-based model of the q profile and normalized beta (β N) dynamics is embeddedmore » into a numerical optimization algorithm to design feedforward actuator trajectories that sheer the plasma through the tokamak operating space to reach a desired stationary target state that is characterized by the achieved q profile and β N. Good agreement between experimental results and simulations demonstrates the accuracy of the models employed for physics-model-based control design. Secondly, a feedback algorithm for q profile control is designed following a FPD approach, and the ability of the controller to achieve and maintain a target q profile evolution is tested in DIII-D high confinement (H-mode) experiments. The controller is shown to be able to effectively control the q profile when β N is relatively close to the target, indicating the need for integrated q profile and β N control to further enhance the ability to achieve robust scenario execution. Furthermore, the ability of an integrated q profile + β N feedback controller to track a desired target is demonstrated through simulation.« less

Influence of in vivo growth on human glioma cell line gene expression: Convergent profiles under orthotopic conditions

PubMed Central

Camphausen, Kevin; Purow, Benjamin; Sproull, Mary; Scott, Tamalee; Ozawa, Tomoko; Deen, Dennis F.; Tofilon, Philip J.

2005-01-01

Defining the molecules that regulate tumor cell survival is an essential prerequisite for the development of targeted approaches to cancer treatment. Whereas many studies aimed at identifying such targets use human tumor cells grown in vitro or as s.c. xenografts, it is unclear whether such experimental models replicate the phenotype of the in situ tumor cell. To begin addressing this issue, we have used microarray analysis to define the gene expression profile of two human glioma cell lines (U251 and U87) when grown in vitro and in vivo as s.c. or as intracerebral (i.c.) xenografts. For each cell line, the gene expression profile generated from tissue culture was significantly different from that generated from the s.c. tumor, which was significantly different from those grown i.c. The disparity between the i.c gene expression profiles and those generated from s.c. xenografts suggests that whereas an in vivo growth environment modulates gene expression, orthotopic growth conditions induce a different set of modifications. In this study the U251 and U87 gene expression profiles generated under the three growth conditions were also compared. As expected, the profiles of the two glioma cell lines were significantly different when grown as monolayer cultures. However, the glioma cell lines had similar gene expression profiles when grown i.c. These results suggest that tumor cell gene expression, and thus phenotype, as defined in vitro is affected not only by in vivo growth but also by orthotopic growth, which may have implications regarding the identification of relevant targets for cancer therapy. PMID:15928080

Topographic antigenic determinants recognized by monoclonal antibodies on human choriogonadotropin beta-subunit

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bidart, J.M.; Troalen, F.; Salesse, R.

1987-06-25

We describe a first attempt to study the antibody-combining sites recognized by monoclonal antibodies raised against the beta-subunit of human choriogonadotropin (hCG). Two groups of antibodies were first defined by their ability to recognize only the free beta-subunit or the free and combined subunit. Antibodies FBT-11 and FBT-11-L bind only to hCG beta-subunit but not to hCG, whereas antibodies FBT-10 and D1E8 bind to both the beta-subunit and the hormone. In both cases, the antigenic determinants were localized to the core of the protein (residues 1-112), indicating the weak immunogenicity of the specific carboxyl-terminal extension of hCG-beta. Nine synthetic peptidesmore » spanning different regions of hCG-beta and lutropin-beta were assessed for their capacity to inhibit antibody binding. A synthetic peptide inclusive of the NH2-terminal region (residues 1-7) of the hCG beta-subunit was found to inhibit binding to the radiolabeled subunit of a monoclonal antibody specific for free hCG-beta (FBT-11). Further delineation of the antigenic site recognized by this antibody provided evidence for the involvement of fragment 82-92. Moreover, monoclonal antibody FBT-11 inhibited the recombination of hCG-beta to hCG-alpha, indicating that its antigenic determinant might be located nearby or in the hCG-beta portion interacting with the alpha-subunit. Binding of monoclonal antibody FBT-10, corresponding to the second antigenic determinant, was weakly inhibited by fragment 82-105 and did not impair the recombination of the hCG beta-subunit to the hCG alpha-subunit. Its combining site appeared to be located in a region of the intact native choriogonadotropin present at the surface of the hormone-receptor complex.« less

Discovery of a narrow line quasar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stocke, J.; Liebert, J.; Maccacaro, T.; Griffiths, R. E.; Steiner, J. E.

1982-01-01

A stellar object is reported which, while having X-ray and optical luminosities typical of quasars, has narrow permitted and forbidden emission lines over the observed spectral range. The narrow-line spectrum is high-excitation, the Balmer lines seem to be recombinational, and a redder optical spectrum than that of most quasars is exhibited, despite detection as a weak radio source. The object does not conform to the relationships between H-beta parameters and X-ray flux previously claimed for a large sample of the active galactic nuclei. Because reddish quasars with narrow lines, such as the object identified, may not be found by the standard techniques for the discovery of quasars, the object may be a prototype of a new class of quasars analogous to high-luminosity Seyfert type 2 galaxies. It is suggested that these objects cannot comprise more than 10% of all quasars.

Expression profile of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase and activation of telomerase in human ovarian surface epithelial cells undergoing immortalization.

PubMed

Litaker, J R; Pan, J; Cheung, Y; Zhang, D K; Liu, Y; Wong, S C; Wan, T S; Tsao, S W

1998-11-01

Senescence is a specific physiological stage of cells characterized by long population doubling time. It accounts for the inability of normal somatic cells to undergo indefinite cell division. As the number of population doublings increase, cell cycle regulatory mechanisms come into play and signal cells to exit the cell cycle and become senescent. Senescence has been implicated in the aging process and may function as a tumor suppressor mechanism in human cells. The ability to measure the degree of cellular senescence is important in understanding the biological processes regulating cell aging and immortalization. Senescent cells exhibit an enzyme termed senescence-associated histochemical staining. Cells immortalized by viral oncogenes often enter a stage of crisis at the early phase of immortalization. The cells at crisis have a long population doubling time. Cells at the crisis stage resemble senescent cells and the expression of SA- beta-Gal may be used to monitor the process of immortalization. In this study the expression profile of SA-beta-Gal was examined in human ovarian surface epithelial cells (HOSE 6-3) undergoing immortalization by the human papilloma viral oncogene E6 and E7 (HPV E6 and E7). Our results showed a low percentage (12.0%) of HOSE 6-3 cells expressing SA-beta-Gal activity at the pre-crisis stage. The percentage of HOSE 6-3 cells expressing SA-beta-Gal activity was highest (39.2%) at the crisis stage. When HOSE 6-3 cells achieved immortalized status there was a sharp decrease in cells (1. 3%) expressing SA-beta-Gal activity. In addition, an inverse relationship between the expression of SA-beta-Gal activity and telomerase activity was noted in cells undergoing immortalization. The results confirm that the SA-beta-Gal enzyme is a good marker for monitoring the population of cells undergoing senescence at different stages of immortalization and that telomerase activation is a characteristic feature of post-crisis cells.

Probing the N˜Z line via β decay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oinonen, Markku

1999-11-01

This contribution reports several beta-decay studies performed at ISOLDE On-line Mass Separator at CERN recently for nuclei close to N=Z line. Beta decay of 58Zn provides a possibility to compare Gamow-Teller strength extracted from complementary beta-decay studies and charge-exchange reactions. Measurement on beta-decay half-life of 70Kr shows importance of experimental information in modelling the path of the astrophysical rp process. Decay of 71Kr is an example of a mirror beta decay and extends the systematics of these particular decays towards highly deformed region close to A=80.

Optical and UV spectroscopy of the peculiar RS CVn system RT Lacertae

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huenemoerder, D. P.; Barden, S. C.

1986-01-01

H-alpha and H-beta spectra of the peculiar double-lined RS CVn binary RT Lacertae have been obtained using the IUE, together with a ground-based coude-feed telescope at KPNO. The ground-based spectra show an asymmetry related to the orbital phase in the H-alpha profile. H-beta profiles showed excess emission in one hemisphere and excess absorption in the other, with a broad Gaussian emission component superposed on the excess H-alpha line. A radial velocity curve was derived to estimate the mass ratio and geometry of the system. It is shown that the component of RT Lac fills 80-90 percent of the equilibrium Roche surface. Low-resolution ultraviolet data show that the supposed cooler component is bluer than its companion, suggesting evidence of a scattering shell or a cloud produced by the splash of a gas stream. The phase behavior of the low resolution ultraviolet data support the conclusion that RT Lac is a mass transfer system and that mass transfer is the primary cause of its activity.

Complexity in pH-Dependent Ribozyme Kinetics: Dark pKa Shifts and Wavy Rate-pH Profiles.

PubMed

Frankel, Erica A; Bevilacqua, Philip C

2018-02-06

Charged bases occur in RNA enzymes, or ribozymes, where they play key roles in catalysis. Cationic bases donate protons and perform electrostatic catalysis, while anionic bases accept protons. We previously published simulations of rate-pH profiles for ribozymes in terms of species plots for the general acid and general base that have been useful for understanding how ribozymes respond to pH. In that study, we did not consider interaction between the general acid and general base or interaction with other species on the RNA. Since that report, diverse small ribozyme classes have been discovered, many of which have charged nucleobases or metal ions in the active site that can either directly interact and participate in catalysis or indirectly interact as "influencers". Herein, we simulate experimental rate-pH profiles in terms of species plots in which reverse protonated charged nucleobases interact. These analyses uncover two surprising features of pH-dependent enzyme kinetics. (1) Cooperativity between the general acid and general base enhances population of the functional forms of a ribozyme and manifests itself as hidden or "dark" pK a shifts, real pK a shifts that accelerate the reaction but are not readily observed by standard experimental approaches, and (2) influencers favorably shift the pK a s of proton-transferring nucleobases and manifest themselves as "wavy" rate-pH profiles. We identify parallels with the protein enzyme literature, including reverse protonation and wavelike behavior, while pointing out that RNA is more prone to reverse protonation. The complexities uncovered, which arise from simple pairwise interactions, should aid deconvolution of complex rate-pH profiles for RNA and protein enzymes and suggest veiled catalytic devices for promoting catalysis that can be tested by experiment and calculation.

Spectral and temporal properties of the alpha and beta subunits and (alpha beta) monomer isolated from Nostoc sp. using picosecond laser spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dagen, A. J.

1985-12-01

The fluorescence decay profiles, relative quantum yield and transmission of the alpha, beta and (alpha beta) complexes from phycoerythrin isolated from the photosynthetic antenna system of Nostoc sp. and measured by single picosecond laser spectroscopic techniques is studied. The fluorescence decay profiles of all three complexes are found to be intensity independent for the intensity range investigated (approx. 4x10 to the 13th power to 4x10 to the 15th power photons/sq cm per pulse). The apparent decrease in the relative quantum yield of all three complexes as intensity increases is offset by a corresponding increase in the relative transmission. This evidence, along with the intensity independent fluorescence kinetics, suggests that exciton annihilation is absent in these complexes. The decay profiles are fit to models assuming energy transfer amongst fluorescing chromophores. The intraprotein transfer rate is found to be 100 ps in the alpha subunit, 666 ps in the beta subunit. Constraining these rates to be identical in the monomer results in explaining the monomer kinetics by an increase in the nonradiative rate of the f beta chromophore, an apparent result of aggregation effects.

OBSERVATIONS AND SIMULATIONS OF THE Na i D{sub 1} LINE PROFILES IN AN M-CLASS SOLAR FLARE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuridze, D.; Mathioudakis, M.; Jess, D. B.

2016-12-01

We study the temporal evolution of the Na i D{sub 1} line profiles in the M3.9 flare SOL2014-06-11T21:03 UT, using observations at high spectral resolution obtained with the Interferometric Bidimensional Spectrometer instrument on the Dunn Solar Telescope combined with radiative hydrodynamic simulations. Our results show a significant increase in the intensities of the line core and wings during the flare. The analysis of the line profiles from the flare ribbons reveals that the Na i D{sub 1} line has a central reversal with excess emission in the blue wing (blue asymmetry). We combine RADYN and RH simulations to synthesize Na imore » D{sub 1} line profiles of the flaring atmosphere and find good agreement with the observations. Heating with a beam of electrons modifies the radiation field in the flaring atmosphere and excites electrons from the ground state 3s {sup 2}S to the first excited state 3p {sup 2}P, which in turn modifies the relative population of the two states. The change in temperature and the population density of the energy states make the sodium line profile revert from absorption into emission. Furthermore, the rapid changes in temperature break the pressure balance between the different layers of the lower atmosphere, generating upflow/downflow patterns. Analysis of the simulated spectra reveals that the asymmetries of the Na i D{sub 1} flare profile are produced by the velocity gradients in the lower solar atmosphere.« less

The role of IL-1beta in reduced IL-7 production by stromal and epithelial cells: a model for impaired T-cell numbers in the gut during HIV-1 infection.

PubMed

Thang, P H; Ruffin, N; Brodin, D; Rethi, B; Cam, P D; Hien, N T; Lopalco, L; Vivar, N; Chiodi, F

2010-08-01

Interleukin (IL)-7 is a key cytokine in T-cell homeostasis. Stromal cells, intestinal epithelial cells and keratinocytes are known to produce this cytokine. The mechanisms and cellular factors regulating IL-7 production are still unclear. We assessed whether IL-1beta and interferon (IFN)-gamma, cytokines produced during inflammatory conditions, may impact on IL-7 production. We used human intestinal epithelial cells (DLD-1 cell line) and bone marrow stromal cells (HS27 cell line), known to produce IL-7; IL-7 production was evaluated at the mRNA and protein levels. To assess whether treatment of HS27 cells with IL-1beta and/or IFN-gamma leads to changes in the gene expression of cytokines, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and chemokines, we analysed gene expression profiles using the whole-genome microarray Human Gene 1.0 ST. We found that IFN-gamma enhanced the expression of IL-7 mRNA (P < 0.001) in both cell lines. IL-1beta treatment led to a significant down-regulation (P < 0.001) of IL-7 mRNA expression in both cell lines. The IL-7 concentration in supernatants collected from treated DLD-1 and HS27 cell cultures reflected the trend of IL-7 mRNA levels. The gene profiles revealed dramatic changes in expression of cytokines and their receptors (IL-7/IL-7R alpha; IL-1alpha,IL-1beta/IL-1R1; IFN-gamma/IFN-gammaR1), of IFN regulatory factors (IRF-1 and 2), of TLRs and of important chemo-attractants for T cells. The microarray results were verified by additional methods. Our results are discussed in the setting of inflammation and T-cell survival in the gut compartment during HIV-1 infection where stromal and epithelial cells may produce factors that contribute to impaired IL-7 homeostasis and homing of T cells.

Simultaneous measurement of stratospheric O3, H2O, CH4, and N2O profiles from infrared limb thermal emissions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abbas, M. M.; Glenn, M. J.; Kunde, V. G.; Brasunas, J.; Conrath, B. J.; Maguire, W. C.; Herman, J. R.

1987-01-01

Thermal emission measurements of the earth's stratospheric limb were made with a cryogenically cooled high-resolution Michelson interferometer on a balloon flight launched from Palestine, TX, on Nov. 6, 1984. Infrared spectra for complete limb sequences were obtained over portions of the 700-1940/cm range with an unapodized spectral resolution of 0.03/cm for tangent heights varying from 13 to 39 km. The observed data from 1125 to 1425/cm have been analyzed for simultaneous measurement of O3, H2O, CH4, and N2O profiles. The analysis employs line-by-line and layer-by-layer radiative-transfer calculations, including curvature and refraction effects. The optimum use of geometric and spectral effects is made to obtain sharply peaked weighting functions. Contributions from stratospheric aerosol are included by measuring the light extinction within the window regions of the observed spectra. The retrieved constituent profiles are compared with measurements made with a variety of techniques by other groups. The comparison shows good agreement with the published data for all gases, indicating the capability of retrieving trace gas profiles from high-resolution thermal emission limb measurements.

Anatomy of an amyloidogenic intermediate: conversion of beta-sheet to alpha-sheet structure in transthyretin at acidic pH.

PubMed

Armen, Roger S; Alonso, Darwin O V; Daggett, Valerie

2004-10-01

The homotetramer of transthyretin (TTR) dissociates into a monomeric amyloidogenic intermediate that self-assembles into amyloid fibrils at low pH. We have performed molecular dynamics simulations of monomeric TTR at neutral and low pH at physiological (310 K) and very elevated temperature (498 K). In the low-pH simulations at both temperatures, one of the two beta-sheets (strands CBEF) becomes disrupted, and alpha-sheet structure forms in the other sheet (strands DAGH). alpha-sheet is formed by alternating alphaL and alphaR residues, and it was first proposed by Pauling and Corey. Overall, the simulations are in agreement with the available experimental observations, including solid-state NMR results for a TTR-peptide amyloid. In addition, they provide a unique explanation for the results of hydrogen exchange experiments of the amyloidogenic intermediate-results that are difficult to explain with beta-structure. We propose that alpha-sheet may represent a key pathological conformation during amyloidogenesis. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Collision Induced Velocity Changes from Molecular Dynamic Simulations. Application to the Spectral Shape of the Q(1) Raman Lines of H{_2}/H{_2}

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tran, H.; Hartmann, J. M.

2011-06-01

Collision induced velocity changes for pure H{_2} have been computed from classical dynamic simulations. The results have been compared with the Keilson-Storer model from four different points of view. The first involves various autocorrelation functions associated with the velocity. The second and third give more detailed information, and are time evolutions of some conditional probabilities for changes of the velocity modulus and orientation and the collision kernels themselves. The fourth considers the evolutions, with density, of the half widths of the Q(1) lines of the isotropic Raman (1-0) fundamental band and of the (2-0) overtone quadrupole band. These spectroscopic data enable an indirect test of the models since velocity changes translate into line-shape modifications through the speed dependence of collisional parameters and the Dicke narrowing of the Doppler contribution to the profile. The results indicate that, while the KS approach gives a poor description of detailed velocity-to-velocty changes, it leads to accurate results for the correlation functions and spectral shapes, quantities related to large averages over the velocity. It is also shown that the use of collision kernels directly derived from MDS lead to an almost perfect prediction of all considered quantities (correlation functions, conditional probabilities, and spectral shapes). Finally, the results stress the need for very accurate calculations of line-broadening and -shifting coefficients from the intermolecular potential to obviate the need for experimental data and permit fully meaningful tests of the models. H. Tran, J.M. Hartmann J. Chem. Phys. 130, 094301, 2009.

Seasonal Variations in the CO Line Profile and the Retrieved Thermal/Pressure Structures in the Atmosphere of Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khayat, Alain; Villanueva, G. L.; Mumma, M. J.; Riesen, T. E.; Tokunaga, A. T.

2013-10-01

We report retrievals of temperature vertical profiles up to 100 km over Tharsis and Syrtis regions on Mars obtained by inverting the strong rotational (3-2) line of carbon monoxide (CO) at 346 GHz. Observations of CO were made from mid Northern Spring to early Northern Summer on Mars (Ls= 36°-108°, 23 Nov, 2011 - 13 May, 2012) using the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory's (CSO) high-resolution heterodyne receiver (Barney) on top of Mauna Kea, Hawai'i. The temperature profiles were derived using our radiative transfer model that considers the latest spectroscopic constants for CO collisionally broadened by CO2. We observe notable changes of the line profile for different dates, which are directly related to seasonal variations in the thermal/pressure structure of the atmosphere. The seasonal variability of the martian CO line profile, the extracted temperature profiles, and comparisons with modeled profiles from the Mars Climate Database (Lewis et al, 1999) will be presented. We gratefully acknowledge support from the NASA Planetary Astronomy Program , NASA Astrobiology Institute, Planetary Atmospheres programs. This material is based upon work at the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory, which is operated by the California Institute of Technology under cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation, grant number AST-0838261.

Theoretical quasar emission-line ratios. VII - Energy-balance models for finite hydrogen slabs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hubbard, E. N.; Puetter, R. C.

1985-01-01

The present energy balance calculations for finite, isobaric, hydrogen-slab quasar emission line clouds incorporate probabilistic radiative transfer (RT) in all lines and bound-free continua of a five-level continuum model hydrogen atom. Attention is given to the line ratios, line formation regions, level populations and model applicability results obtained. H lines and a variety of other considerations suggest the possibility of emission line cloud densities in excess of 10 to the 10th/cu cm. Lyman-beta/Lyman-alpha line ratios that are in agreement with observed values are obtained by the models. The observed Lyman/Balmer ratios can be achieved with clouds whose column depths are about 10 to the 22nd/sq cm.

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta1) promotes IL-2 mRNA expression through the up-regulation of NF-kappaB, AP-1 and NF-AT in EL4 cells.

PubMed

Han, S H; Yea, S S; Jeon, Y J; Yang, K H; Kaminski, N E

1998-12-01

Transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) has been previously shown to modulate interleukin 2 (IL-2) secretion by activated T-cells. In the present studies, we determined that TGF-beta1 induced IL-2 mRNA expression in the murine T-cell line EL4, in the absence of other stimuli. IL-2 mRNA expression was significantly induced by TGF-beta1 (0.1-1 ng/ml) over a relatively narrow concentration range, which led to the induction of IL-2 secretion. Under identical condition, we examined the effect of TGF-beta1 on the activity of nuclear factor AT (NF-AT), nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB), activator protein-1 (AP-1) and octamer, all of which contribute to the regulation of IL-2 gene expression. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that TGF-beta1 markedly increased NF-AT, NF-kappaB and AP-1 binding to their respective cognate DNA binding sites, whereas octamer binding remained constant, as compared with untreated cells. Employing a reporter gene expression system with p(NF-kappaB)3-CAT, p(NF-AT)3-CAT and p(AP-1)3-CAT, TGF-beta1 treatment of transfected EL4 cells induced a dose-related increase in chloramphenicol acetyltransferase activity that correlated well with the DNA binding profile found in the electrophoretic mobility shift assay studies. These results show that TGF-beta1, in the absence of any additional stimuli, up-regulates the activity of key transcription factors involved in IL-2 gene expression, including NF-AT, NF-kappaB and AP-1, to help promote IL-2 mRNA expression by EL4 cells.

Optimized formation of detergent micelles of beta-carotene and retinal production using recombinant human beta,beta-carotene 15,15'-monooxygenase.

PubMed

Kim, Nam-Hee; Kim, Yeong-Su; Kim, Hye-Jung; Oh, Deok-Kun

2008-01-01

The formation of beta-carotene detergent micelles and their conversion into retinal by recombinant human beta,beta-carotene 15,15'-monooxygenase was optimized under aqueous conditions. Toluene was the most hydrophobic among the organic solvents tested; thus, it was used to dissolve beta-carotene, which is a hydrophobic compound. Tween 80 was selected as the detergent because it supported the highest level of retinal production among all of the detergents tested. The maximum production of retinal was achieved in detergent micelles containing 200 mg/L of beta-carotene and 2.4% (w/v) Tween 80. Under these conditions, the recombinant enzyme produced 97 mg/L of retinal after 16 h with a conversion yield of 48.5% (w/w). The amount of retinal produced, which is the highest ever reported, is a result of the ability of our system to dissolve large amounts of beta-carotene.

Economical Emission-Line Mapping: ISM Properties of Nearby Protogalaxy Analogs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monkiewicz, Jacqueline A.

2017-01-01

Optical emission line imaging can produce a wealth of information about the conditions of the interstellar medium, but a full set of custom emission-line filters for a professional-grade telescope camera can cost many thousands of dollars. A cheaper alternative is to use commercially-produced 2-inch narrow-band astrophotography filters. In order to use these standardized filters with professional-grade telescope cameras, custom filter mounts must be manufactured for each individual filter wheel. These custom filter adaptors are produced by 3-D printing rather than standard machining, which further lowers the total cost.I demonstrate the feasibility of this technique with H-alpha, H-beta, and [OIII] emission line mapping of the low metallicity star-forming galaxies IC10 and NGC 1569, taken with my astrophotography filter set on three different 2-meter class telescopes in Southern Arizona.

In-line height profiling metrology sensor for zero defect production control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snel, Rob; Winters, Jasper; Liebig, Thomas; Jonker, Wouter

2017-06-01

Contemporary production systems of mechanical precision parts show challenges as increased complexity, tolerances shrinking to sub-microns and yield losses that must be mastered to the extreme. More advanced automation and process control is required to accomplish this task. Often a solution based on feedforward/feedback control is chosen requiring innovative and more advanced in line metrology. This article concentrates first on the context of in line metrology for process control and then on the development of a specific in line height profiling sensor. The novel sensor technology is based on full field time domain white light interferometry which is well know from the quality lab. The novel metrology system is to be mounted close to the production equipment, as required to minimize time delay in the control loop, and is thereby fully exposed to vibrations. This sensor is innovated to perform in line with an orders of magnitude faster throughput than laboratory instruments; it's robust to withstand the rigors of workshops and has a height resolution that is in the nanometer range.

The gaseous component of the disk around Beta Pictoris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hobbs, L. M.; Vidal-Madjar, A.; Ferlet, R.; Albert, C. E.; Gry, C.

1985-01-01

Optical spectra of alpha Lyr, alpha PsA, and beta Pic have been obtained at a velocity resolution of 3 km/s. No circumstellar absorption lines of Ca II or Na I are detected toward alpha Lyr or alpha PsA at sensitive limits. In the favorable case of beta Pic, where the circumstellar disk imaged by Smith and Terrile (1984) is seen nearly edge-on, a strong, narrow, circumstellar Ca II K absorption line previously reported by Slettebak (1982) and weaker, still narrower circumstellar Na I D lines are detected. Negative results of high sensitivity also are obtained for the Ca I 4226 A and CH(+) 4232 A lines, along with upper limits on the Zn II 2026, 2062 A doublet from archival IUE spectra. Under assumptions which agree with other well-established observations of the gaseous abundances of calcium and zinc, the total gaseous column density of hydrogen along a radius of the circumstellar disk is between 10 to the 18th and 4 x 10 to the 20th/sq cm. Within the boundaries of the dust disk detected by Smith and Terrile (1984) the total gaseous mass then is less than about 2, or less than 1 percent of the mass of the planetary system. A simplified model of the density distribution in the gaseous disk yields a characteristic total density n(H) of about 100,000/cu cm, which exceeds that of all interplanetary gas at earth's position by a factor of about 10,000.

Metabolic Profile of Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cell Lines Relies on a Higher Demand of Lipid Metabolism in Metastatic Cells

PubMed Central

Sant’Anna-Silva, Ana Carolina B.; Santos, Gilson C.; Campos, Samir P. Costa; Oliveira Gomes, André Marco; Pérez-Valencia, Juan Alberto; Rumjanek, Franklin David

2018-01-01

Tumor cells are subjected to a broad range of selective pressures. As a result of the imposed stress, subpopulations of surviving cells exhibit individual biochemical phenotypes that reflect metabolic reprograming. The present work aimed at investigating metabolic parameters of cells displaying increasing degrees of metastatic potential. The metabolites present in cell extracts fraction of tongue fibroblasts and of cell lines derived from human tongue squamous cell carcinoma lineages displaying increasing metastatic potential (SCC9 ZsG, LN1 and LN2) were analyzed by 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy. Living, intact cells were also examined by the non-invasive method of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) based on the auto fluorescence of endogenous NADH. The cell lines reproducibly exhibited distinct metabolic profiles confirmed by Partial Least-Square Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) of the spectra. Measurement of endogenous free and bound NAD(P)H relative concentrations in the intact cell lines showed that ZsG and LN1 cells displayed high heterogeneity in the energy metabolism, indicating that the cells would oscillate between glycolysis and oxidative metabolism depending on the microenvironment’s composition. However, LN2 cells appeared to have more contributions to the oxidative status, displaying a lower NAD(P)H free/bound ratio. Functional experiments of energy metabolism, mitochondrial physiology, and proliferation assays revealed that all lineages exhibited similar energy features, although resorting to different bioenergetics strategies to face metabolic demands. These differentiated functions may also promote metastasis. We propose that lipid metabolism is related to the increased invasiveness as a result of the accumulation of malonate, methyl malonic acid, n-acetyl and unsaturated fatty acids (CH2)n in parallel with the metastatic potential progression, thus suggesting that the NAD(P)H reflected the lipid catabolic

Buffer salt effects in off-line coupling of capillary electrophoresis and mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Marák, Jozef; Stanová, Andrea

2014-05-01

In this work, the impact of buffer salts/matrix effects on the signal in direct injection MS with an electrospray interface (DI-ESI-MS) following pITP fractionation of the sample was studied. A range of buffers frequently used in CE analyses (pH 3-10) was prepared containing 10, 50, and 90% v/v of ACN, respectively. The sets of calibration solutions of cetirizine (an antihistaminic drug with an amphiprotic character) within a 0.05-2.0 mg/L concentration range were prepared in different buffers. The greatest enhancements in the MS signal (in terms of change in the slope of the calibration line) were obtained for the beta-alanine buffer (pH 3.5) in positive ionization and for the borate buffer (pH 9.2) in negative ionization, respectively. The procedure was successfully applied to the analysis of buserelin (a peptidic drug). The slope of the calibration line for solutions containing the beta-alanine buffer with 50% of ACN was 4 times higher than for water or urine, respectively. This study clearly demonstrates that the buffer salt/matrix effects in an offline combination of pITP and DI-ESI-MS can also play a positive role, as they can enhance the signal in MS. A similar influence of the above effects can also be presumed in the CE techniques combined on-line with ESI-MS.

First direct comparison of high and low ionization line kinematics in active galactic nuclei

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sulentic, J. W.; Marziani, P.; Dultzin-Hacyan, D.; Calvani, M.; Moles, M.

1995-01-01

We present first results of a comparison of emission line shift properties for the high (HILs) and low (LILs) ionization lines in 43 low-reshift quasars. We identify a core sample of C IV lambda 1549 and hydrogen beta profiles with a wide distribution of red- and blueshifts (less than or equal to +/- 1000 km/sec). We also identify two tails in this distribution: one with large hydrogen beta redshifts (greater than or equal to 2000 km/sec) and another with large C IV blueshifts (greater than or equal to 1500 km/sec). The tails are mutually exclusive. All objects with extreme hydrogen beta redshift are radio loud, and all objects with extreme C IV blueshift are radio quiet. The core samples of smaller shifts can be most simply divided into: (1) hydrogen beta - a redshifted radio-loud population (related to the tail) and a radio-quiet population with mean shift near zero, and (2) C IV - a blueshifted radio-quiet population (related to the tail) and a radio-loud population with mean shift near zero. The results suggest fundamentally different kinematics for the HILs and LILs. They also suggest very different kinematics for radio-loud and radio-quiet active galactic nuclei. They also favor a predominance of radial motion in a large fraction of the sample.

A Virtual Sky with Extragalactic H I and CO Lines for the Square Kilometre Array and the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Obreschkow, D.; Klöckner, H.-R.; Heywood, I.; Levrier, F.; Rawlings, S.

2009-10-01

We present a sky simulation of the atomic H I-emission line and the first 10 12C16O rotational emission lines of molecular gas in galaxies beyond the Milky Way. The simulated sky field has a comoving diameter of 500 h -1 Mpc; hence, the actual field of view depends on the (user-defined) maximal redshift z max; e.g., for z max = 10, the field of view yields ~4 × 4 deg2. For all galaxies, we estimate the line fluxes, line profiles, and angular sizes of the H I and CO-emission lines. The galaxy sample is complete for galaxies with cold hydrogen masses above 108 M sun. This sky simulation builds on a semi-analytic model of the cosmic evolution of galaxies in a Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology. The evolving CDM distribution was adopted from the Millennium Simulation, an N-body CDM simulation in a cubic box with a side length of 500 h -1 Mpc. This side length limits the coherence scale of our sky simulation: it is long enough to allow the extraction of the baryon acoustic oscillations in the galaxy power spectrum, yet the position and amplitude of the first acoustic peak will be imperfectly defined. This sky simulation is a tangible aid to the design and operation of future telescopes, such as the Square Kilometre Array, Large Millimeter Telescope, and Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array. The results presented in this paper have been restricted to a graphical representation of the simulated sky and fundamental dN/dz analyses for peak flux density limited and total flux limited surveys of H I and CO. A key prediction is that H I will be harder to detect at redshifts z gsim 2 than predicted by a no-evolution model. The future verification or falsification of this prediction will allow us to qualify the semi-analytic models. -SAX-Sky"

The profiles of Fe K α line from the inhomogeneous accretion flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Xiao-Di; Ma, Ren-Yi; Li, Ya-Ping; Zhang, Hui; Fang, Tao-Tao

2018-05-01

The clumpy disc, or inhomogeneous accretion flow, has been proposed to explain the properties of accreting black hole systems. However, the observational evidence remains to be explored. In this work, we calculate the profiles of Fe K α lines emitted from the inhomogeneous accretion flow through the ray-tracing technique, in order to find possible observable signals of the clumps. Compared with the skewed double-peaked profile of the continuous standard accretion disc, the lines show a multipeak structure when the emissivity index is not very steep. The peaks and wings are affected by the position and size of the cold clumps. When the clump is small and is located in the innermost region, due to the significant gravitational redshift, the blue wing can overlap with the red wing of the outer cold disc/clump, forming a fake peak or greatly enhancing the red peak. Given high enough resolution, it is easier to constrain the clumps around the supermassive black holes than the clumps in stellar mass black holes due to the thermal Doppler effect.

Elucidation of solution state complexation in wet-granulated oven-dried ibuprofen and beta-cyclodextrin: FT-IR and 1H-NMR studies.

PubMed

Ghorab, M K; Adeyeye, M C

2001-08-01

The effect of oven-dried wet granulation on the complexation of beta-cyclodextrin with ibuprofen (IBU) in solution was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and molecular modeling. Granulation was carried out using 5 mL of three different granulating solvents; water, ethanol (95% v/v), and isopropanol and the granules were oven-dried at 60 degrees C for 2 h. The granules were compared to oven-dried physical mixture and conventionally prepared complex. Phase solubility study was performed to investigate the stability of the granulation-formed complexes in solution. FT-IR was used to examine the complexation in the granules while 1H NMR, and molecular modeling studies were carried out to determine the mechanism of complexation in the water-prepared granules. The solubility studies suggested a 1:1 complex between IBU and betaCD. It also showed that the stability of the complex in solution was in the following order with respect to the granulating solvents: ethanol > water > isopropanol. The FT-IR study revealed a shift in the carboxylic acid stretching band and decrease in the intensities of the C-H bending bands of the isopropyl group and the out-of-plane aromatic ring, of IBU, in granules compared to the oven-dried physical mixture. This indicated that granules might have some extent of solid state complexation that could further enhance dissolution and the IBU-betaCD solution state complexation. 1H NMR showed that water prepared oven-dried granules had a different 1H NMR spectrum compared to similarly made oven-dried physical mixture, indicative of complexation in the former. The 1H NMR and the molecular modeling studies together revealed that solution state complexation from the granules occurred by inclusion of the isopropyl group together with part of the aromatic ring of IBU into the betaCD cavity probably through its wider side. These results indicate that granulation process induced

Mass loss from alpha Cyg /A2Ia/ derived from the profiles of low excitation Fe II lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hensberge, H.; De Loore, C.; Lamers, H. J. G. L. M.; Bruhweiler, F. C.

1982-01-01

The low-excitation Fe II lines in the spectral region 2000-3000 A are studied in the spectrum of alpha-Cyg. The profiles of the resonance lines are described by four representative parameters, and a preliminary model is derived from the dependence of these parameters on theoretical line strength, taking into account the influence of blending photospheric lines in an overall and qualitative way. At least 11% of all iron in the wind is once ionized, unless a non-thermal heating source enhances the fraction Fe(++) without destroying much Al(+). It is shown that the contribution of blending photospheric absorption lines to weaker P Cygni profiles has been previously largely underestimated. The mass loss rate corresponding to the model is derived, and is smaller by a factor of 500 than the one derived from the infrared excess by Barlow and Cohen (1977).

Mid Infrared Hydrogen Recombination Line Emission from the Maser Star MWC 349A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Howard A.; Strelnitski, V.; Miles, J. W.; Kelly, D. M.; Lacy, J. H.

1997-01-01

We have detected and spectrally resolved the mid-IR hydrogen recombination lines H6(alpha)(12.372 micrometers), H7(alpha)(19.062 micrometers), H7(beta)(l1.309 micrometers) and H8(gamma)(12.385 micrometers) from the star MWC349A. This object has strong hydrogen maser emission (reported in the millimeter and submillimeter hydrogen recombination lines from H36(alpha) to H21(alpha)) and laser emission (reported in the H15(alpha), H12(alpha) and H10(alpha) lines). The lasers/masers are thought to arise predominantly in a Keplerian disk around the star. The mid-IR lines do not show evident signs of lasing, and can be well modeled as arising from the strong stellar wind, with a component arising from a quasi-static atmosphere around the disk, similar to what is hypothesized for the near IR (less than or equal to 4 micrometers) recombination lines. Since populations inversions in the levels producing these mid-IR transitions are expected at densities up to approximately 10(exp 11)/cu cm, these results imply either that the disk does not contain high-density ionized gas over long enough path lengths to produce a gain approximately 1, and/or that any laser emission from such regions is small compared to the spontaneous background emission from the rest of the source as observed with a large beam. The results reinforce the interpretation of the far-IR lines as true lasers.

Transcriptional profiling reveals regulated genes in the hippocampus during memory formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donahue, Christine P.; Jensen, Roderick V.; Ochiishi, Tomoyo; Eisenstein, Ingrid; Zhao, Mingrui; Shors, Tracey; Kosik, Kenneth S.

2002-01-01

Transcriptional profiling (TP) offers a powerful approach to identify genes activated during memory formation and, by inference, the molecular pathways involved. Trace eyeblink conditioning is well suited for the study of regional gene expression because it requires the hippocampus, whereas the highly parallel task, delay conditioning, does not. First, we determined when gene expression was most regulated during trace conditioning. Rats were exposed to 200 trials per day of paired and unpaired stimuli each day for 4 days. Changes in gene expression were most apparent 24 h after exposure to 200 trials. Therefore, we profiled gene expression in the hippocampus 24 h after 200 trials of trace eyeblink conditioning, on multiple arrays using additional animals. Of 1,186 genes on the filter array, seven genes met the statistical criteria and were also validated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. These genes were growth hormone (GH), c-kit receptor tyrosine kinase (c-kit), glutamate receptor, metabotropic 5 (mGluR5), nerve growth factor-beta (NGF-beta), Jun oncogene (c-Jun), transmembrane receptor Unc5H1 (UNC5H1), and transmembrane receptor Unc5H2 (UNC5H2). All these genes, except for GH, were downregulated in response to trace conditioning. GH was upregulated; therefore, we also validated the downregulation of the GH inhibitor, somatostatin (SST), even though it just failed to meet criteria on the arrays. By during situ hybridization, GH was expressed throughout the cell layers of the hippocampus in response to trace conditioning. None of the genes regulated in trace eyeblink conditioning were similarly affected by delay conditioning, a task that does not require the hippocampus. These findings demonstrate that transcriptional profiling can exhibit a repertoire of genes sensitive to the formation of hippocampal-dependent associative memories.

Spatially-Resolved HST GRISM Spectroscopy of a Lensed Emission Line Galaxy at Z to approximately 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frye, Brenda L.; Hurley, Mairead; Bowen, David V.; Meurer, Gerhardt; Sharon, Keren; Straughn, Amber; Coe, Dan; Broadhurst, Tom; Guhathakurta, Puragra

2012-01-01

We take advantage of gravitational lensing amplification by Abell 1689 (z=0.187) to undertake the first space-based census of emission line galaxies (ELGs) in the field of a massive lensing cluster. Forty-three ELGs are identified to a flux of i(sub 775)=27.3 via slitless grism spectroscopy. One ELG (at z=0.7895) is very bright owing to lensing magnification by a factor of approx = 4.5. Several Balmer emission lines detected from ground-based follow-up spectroscopy signal the onset of a major starburst for this low-mass galaxy (M(sub star) approx = 2 x 10(exp 9)Solar Mass) with a high specific star formation rate (approx = 20/ Gyr). From the blue emission lines we measure a gas-phase oxygen abundance consistent with solar (12+log(O /H)=8.8 +/- O.2). We break the continuous line-emitting region of this giant arc into seven approx 1 kpc bins (intrinsic size) and measure a variety of metallicity dependent line ratios. A weak trend of increasing metal fraction is seen toward the dynamical center of the galaxy. Interestingly, the metal line ratios in a region offset from the center by -lkpc have a placement on the blue HI! region excitation diagram with f([OIII]/ f(H-Beta) and f([NeIII/ f(H-Beta) that can be fit by an AGN. This asymmetrical AGN-like behavior is interpreted as a product of shocks in the direction of the galaxy's extended tail, possibly instigated by a recent galaxy interaction.

Non-Maxwellian Analysis of the Transition-region Line Profiles Observed by the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dudík, Jaroslav; Dzifčáková, Elena; Polito, Vanessa

2017-06-10

We investigate the nature of the spectral line profiles for transition-region (TR) ions observed with the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) . In this context, we analyzed an active-region observation performed by IRIS in its 1400 Å spectral window. The TR lines are found to exhibit significant wings in their spectral profiles, which can be well fitted with a non-Maxwellian κ distribution. The fit with a κ distribution can perform better than a double-Gaussian fit, especially for the strongest line, Si iv 1402.8 Å. Typical values of κ found are about 2, occurring in a majority of spatial pixels wheremore » the TR lines are symmetric, i.e., the fit can be performed. Furthermore, all five spectral lines studied (from Si iv, O iv, and S iv) appear to have the same full-width at half-maximum irrespective of whether the line is an allowed or an intercombination transition. A similar value of κ is obtained for the electron distribution by the fitting of the line intensities relative to Si iv 1402.8 Å, if photospheric abundances are assumed. The κ distributions, however, do not remove the presence of non-thermal broadening. Instead, they actually increase the non-thermal width. This is because, for κ distributions, TR ions are formed at lower temperatures. The large observed non-thermal width lowers the opacity of the Si iv line sufficiently enough for this line to become optically thin.« less

4beta-Hydroxywithanolide E from Physalis peruviana (golden berry) inhibits growth of human lung cancer cells through DNA damage, apoptosis and G2/M arrest.

PubMed

Yen, Ching-Yu; Chiu, Chien-Chih; Chang, Fang-Rong; Chen, Jeff Yi-Fu; Hwang, Chi-Ching; Hseu, You-Cheng; Yang, Hsin-Ling; Lee, Alan Yueh-Luen; Tsai, Ming-Tz; Guo, Zong-Lun; Cheng, Yu-Shan; Liu, Yin-Chang; Lan, Yu-Hsuan; Chang, Yu-Ching; Ko, Ying-Chin; Chang, Hsueh-Wei; Wu, Yang-Chang

2010-02-18

The crude extract of the fruit bearing plant, Physalis peruviana (golden berry), demonstrated anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the cellular mechanism involved in this process is still unknown. Herein, we isolated the main pure compound, 4beta-Hydroxywithanolide (4betaHWE) derived from golden berries, and investigated its antiproliferative effect on a human lung cancer cell line (H1299) using survival, cell cycle, and apoptosis analyses. An alkaline comet-nuclear extract (NE) assay was used to evaluate the DNA damage due to the drug. It was shown that DNA damage was significantly induced by 1, 5, and 10 microg/mL 4betaHWE for 2 h in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.005). A trypan blue exclusion assay showed that the proliferation of cells was inhibited by 4betaHWE in both dose- and time-dependent manners (p < 0.05 and 0.001 for 24 and 48 h, respectively). The half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 4betaHWE in H1299 cells for 24 and 48 h were 0.6 and 0.71 microg/mL, respectively, suggesting it could be a potential therapeutic agent against lung cancer. In a flow cytometric analysis, 4betaHWE produced cell cycle perturbation in the form of sub-G1 accumulation and slight arrest at the G2/M phase with 1 microg/mL for 12 and 24 h, respectively. Using flow cytometric and annexin V/propidium iodide immunofluorescence double-staining techniques, these phenomena were proven to be apoptosis and complete G2/M arrest for H1299 cells treated with 5 microg/mL for 24 h. In this study, we demonstrated that golden berry-derived 4betaHWE is a potential DNA-damaging and chemotherapeutic agent against lung cancer.

Capability to Recover Plutonium-238 in H-Canyon/HB-Line - 13248

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fuller, Kenneth S. Jr.; Smith, Robert H. Jr.; Goergen, Charles R.

2013-07-01

Plutonium-238 is used in Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) to generate electrical power and in Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) to produce heat for electronics and environmental control for deep space missions. The domestic supply of Pu-238 consists of scrap material from previous mission production or material purchased from Russia. Currently, the United States has no significant production scale operational capability to produce and separate new Pu-238 from irradiated neptunium-237 targets. The Department of Energy - Nuclear Energy is currently evaluating and developing plans to reconstitute the United States capability to produce Pu-238 from irradiated Np-237 targets. The Savannah River Site hadmore » previously produced and/or processed all the Pu-238 utilized in Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) for deep space missions up to and including the majority of the plutonium for the Cassini Mission. The previous full production cycle capabilities included: Np- 237 target fabrication, target irradiation, target dissolution and Np-237 and Pu-238 separation and purification, conversion of Np-237 and Pu-238 to oxide, scrap recovery, and Pu-238 encapsulation. The capability and equipment still exist and could be revitalized or put back into service to recover and purify Pu-238/Np-237 or broken General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) pellets utilizing existing process equipment in HB-Line Scrap Recovery, and H-Canyon Frame Waste Recovery processes. The conversion of Np-237 and Pu-238 to oxide can be performed in the existing HB-Line Phase-2 and Phase- 3 Processes. Dissolution of irradiated Np-237 target material, and separation and purification of Np-237 and Pu-238 product streams would be possible at production rates of ∼2 kg/month of Pu-238 if the existing H-Canyon Frames Process spare equipment were re-installed. Previously, the primary H-Canyon Frames equipment was removed to be replaced: however, the replacement project was stopped. The spare

Microbial Community Profile of a Lead Service Line Removed from a Drinking Water Distribution System▿

PubMed Central

White, Colin; Tancos, Matthew; Lytle, Darren A.

2011-01-01

A corroded lead service line was removed from a drinking water distribution system, and the microbial community was profiled using 16S rRNA gene techniques. This is the first report of the characterization of a biofilm on the surface of a corroded lead drinking water service line. The majority of phylotypes have been linked to heavy-metal-contaminated environments. PMID:21652741

MicroRNA-320a suppresses human colon cancer cell proliferation by directly targeting {beta}-catenin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sun, Jian-Yong; State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, 710032 Xi'an; Huang, Yi

2012-04-20

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer miR-320a is downregulated in human colorectal carcinoma. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Overexpression of miR-320a inhibits colon cancer cell proliferation. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer {beta}-Catenin is a direct target of miR-320a in colon cancer cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer miR-320a expression inversely correlates with mRNA expression of {beta}-catenin's target genes in human colon carcinoma. -- Abstract: Recent profile studies of microRNA (miRNA) expression have documented a deregulation of miRNA (miR-320a) in human colorectal carcinoma. However, its expression pattern and underlying mechanisms in the development and progression of colorectal carcinoma has not been elucidated clearly. Here, we performed real-time PCR to examine the expression levels of miR-320a in colonmore » cancer cell lines and tumor tissues. And then, we investigated its biological functions in colon cancer cells by a gain of functional strategy. Further more, by the combinational approaches of bioinformatics and experimental validation, we confirmed target associations of miR-320a in colorectal carcinoma. Our results showed that miR-320a was frequently downregulated in cancer cell lines and colon cancer tissues. And we demonstrated that miR-320a restoration inhibited colon cancer cell proliferation and {beta}-catenin, a functionally oncogenic molecule was a direct target gene of miR-320a. Finally, the data of real-time PCR showed the reciprocal relationship between miR-320a and {beta}-catenin's downstream genes in colon cancer tissues. These findings indicate that miR-320a suppresses the growth of colon cancer cells by directly targeting {beta}-catenin, suggesting its application in prognosis prediction and cancer treatment.« less

Steroids from the leaves of Chinese Melia azedarach and their cytotoxic effects on human cancer cell lines.

PubMed

Wu, Shi-Biao; Ji, Yan-Ping; Zhu, Jing-Jing; Zhao, Yun; Xia, Gang; Hu, Ying-He; Hu, Jin-Feng

2009-09-01

Three new (1-3) and several known (4-6) steroids were isolated from the leaves of Chinese Melia azedarach. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by means of spectroscopic methods including 2D NMR techniques and mass spectrometry to be (20S)-5,24(28)-ergostadiene-3beta,7alpha,16beta,20-tetrol (1), (20S)-5-ergostene-3beta,7alpha,16beta,20-tetrol (2), and 2alpha,3beta-dihydro-5-pregnen-16-one (3). The cytotoxicities of the isolated compounds against three human cancer cell lines (A549, H460, U251) were evaluated; only compounds 1, 2, and (20S)-5-stigmastene-3beta,7alpha,20-triol (4) were found to show significant cyctotoxic effects with IC(50)s from 12.0 to 30.1 microg/mL.

Constraints on Porosity and Mass Loss in O-star Winds from the Modeling of X-ray Emission Line Profile Shapes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leutenegger, Maurice A.; Cohen, David H.; Sundqvist, Jon O.; Owocki, Stanley P.

2013-01-01

We fit X-ray emission line profiles in high resolution XMM-Newton and Chandra grating spectra of the early O supergiant Zeta Pup with models that include the effects of porosity in the stellar wind. We explore the effects of porosity due to both spherical and flattened clumps. We find that porosity models with flattened clumps oriented parallel to the photosphere provide poor fits to observed line shapes. However, porosity models with isotropic clumps can provide acceptable fits to observed line shapes, but only if the porosity effect is moderate. We quantify the degeneracy between porosity effects from isotropic clumps and the mass-loss rate inferred from the X-ray line shapes, and we show that only modest increases in the mass-loss rate (40%) are allowed if moderate porosity effects (h(sub infinity) less than approximately R(sub *)) are assumed to be important. Large porosity lengths, and thus strong porosity effects, are ruled out regardless of assumptions about clump shape. Thus, X-ray mass-loss rate estimates are relatively insensitive to both optically thin and optically thick clumping. This supports the use of X-ray spectroscopy as a mass-loss rate calibration for bright, nearby O stars

Evaluation of thrombogenicity of beta-propiolactone/ultraviolet (beta-PL/UV) treated PPSB in chimpanzees

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kotitschke, R.; Stephan, W.; Prince, A.M.

1983-05-01

The thrombogenicity of beta-PL/UV-treated PPSB (factor IX concentrate) was evaluated in chimpanzees. PPSB isolated from beta-propiolactone-treated and UV-irradiated plasma was injected into chimpanzees at a dose of approximately 100 units/kg body weight. An FDA licensed PPSB preparation served as the negative control, and a preparation containing activated as well as precursor clotting factors served as the positive control. 15 minutes, 1 h, 4 h, and 24 h after the PPSB application the following parameters were determined in the chimpanzee blood: factors II, VII, IX, X, VIII, fibrinogen, AT III, thrombin coagulase, Quick value, APTT and platelet count. Neither the untreatedmore » control preparation, nor the PPSB isolated from beta-propiolactone-treated and UV-irradiated plasma, showed signs of thrombogenicity in the chimpanzee model. The positive control indicated that the chimpanzee is a suitable model for the thrombogenicity testing of activated clotting factors.« less