cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The meaning of the body : aesthetics of human understanding

In "The Meaning of the Body", Mark Johnson continues his pioneering work on the exciting connections between cognitive science, language, and meaning first begun in the classic "Metaphors We Live By". Johnson uses recent research into infant psychology to show how the body generates meaning even before self-consciousness has fully developed. From there he turns to cognitive neuroscience to further explore the bodily origins of meaning, thought, and language and examines the many dimensions of meaning - including images, qualities, emotions, and metaphors - that are all rooted in the body's physical encounters with the world. Drawing on the psychology of art and pragmatist philosophy, Johnson argues that all of these aspects of meaning-making are fundamentally aesthetic. He concludes that the arts are the culmination of human attempts to find meaning and that studying the aesthetic dimensions of our experience is crucial to unlocking meaning's bodily sources.Throughout, Johnson puts forth a bold new conception of the mind rooted in the understanding that philosophy will matter to nonphilosophers only if it is built on a visceral connection to the world.
Editor’s Page: Trigger Warnings

As another semester approaches, faculty members are busy tweaking courses in preparation for first-time and returning college students. Hot topics, like MOOCS and helicopter parents, are discussed as faculty members plan for an increasingly diverse student body. While not entirely new in higher education, Btrigger warnings^ are another hot topic. Trigger warnings are alerts placed on texts to give students advance warning that instructional materials may remind students of a past traumatic experience and could Btrigger^ a strong emotional response. A quick search of the Chronicle of Higher Education revealed a number of opinion pieces on the topic in 2014 and continuing attention by journalists in 2015. A discussion of trigger warnings and their appropriateness has also garnered attention in the Times Higher Education; The Huffington Post; the New Republic; and only a few days ago in Australia’s most widely circulated national newspaper, The Australian, to name only a few of the outlets. Some writers suggest that texts that deal with issues such as racism, sexism, sexual violence, and poverty (to name a few) may be potentially offensive and could trigger an extreme reaction based on a student’s prior experience. Therefore, students should be alerted to these potential triggers by placing an advance warning on the course syllabus, if not directly on the text. The interest in trigger warnings in higher education gained momentum when four students at Columbia voiced their concerns about a fellow student’s reaction to Ovid’s Metamorphoses and the treatment of rape in the text. At about the same time, students at the University of California at Santa Barbara passed a resolution calling for mandatory trigger warnings, and an office at Oberlin College in Ohio issued guidelines on the use of trigger warnings. It seems that the momentum has subsided, but not disappeared. Advocates for trigger warnings believe that an increasing number of students enter college with troubled histories or some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD usually associated with returning veterans), which can be triggered by instructional materials that touch on their past traumas. Thus, trigger warnings would give these students an opportunity to opt out of class during troubling discussions and to avoid materials that could trigger a reaction. Weighing in, some mental health professionals have noted that trigger warnings may actually Innov High Educ (2015) 40:373–374 DOI 10.1007/s10755-015-9342-7
A robust adaptive controller for rigid robots

Robust adaptive control schemes for robot manipulators are introduced. A new concept for the adaptive controller guarantees improved performance by gain dynamics relating to the small-gain adaptive mechanism. A control component in the driving acceleration input is exploited. It relates to Riccati equations. New gain dynamics and a linear feedback component increase the exponential convergence rate of a Lyapunov function. Unmodeled dynamics and bounded disturbances are considered in order to deal with the robustification issues. It is possible to adjust the region within which the tracking error is bounded by using design-parameters associated with a Riccati equation and the gain dynamics. This region is a ring-shaped area or a disk-shaped area in which the tracking errors and their derivatives remain. The suggested adaptive control is optimal in that it minimizes a performance index. Simulation results demonstrate the robustified property of the adaptive controller for rigid robots. >
Externalities and the Coase Theorem: A Diagrammatic Presentation

In intermediate microeconomic textbooks the reciprocal nature of externalities is presented using numerical examples of costs and benefits. This treatment of the Coase theorem obscures the fact that externality costs and benefits are best understood as being on a continuum where costs vary with the degree of intensity of the externality. When these cost-and-benefit functions are portrayed as continuous, it is possible to analyze optimal levels of the externality. Total costs and benefits can be observed so that efficiency can be evaluated under conditions of zero transactions costs, positive transactions costs, and auction bidding for property rights. This approach also reinforces several other general principles of microeconomic theory.
Response of Pinniped Populations to Directed Harvest, Climate Variability, and Commercial Fishery Activity: A Comparative Analysis

Hypotheses concerning the decline of Steller sea lions in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) were evaluated based on comparison of data to three other ecosystems that had similar environmental and commercial fishery characteristics. We focus on examining the effects of commercial pinniped harvest, commercial fisheries, and environmental changes. Of the four pinniped species included in this study, only the Steller sea lion population has exhibited a sharp decline in population number. Comparative analysis indicated that the Gulf of Alaska pinniped population has not experienced any unique large-scale perturbations compared to the other ecosystems. Commercial pinniped harvest occurred in all four ecosystems. The history of harvest was shortest for GOA Steller sea lions and the numbers taken were lower than in the Barents Sea and Benguela Current ecosystems. Exploitation rates, though only calculated for years when both harvest numbers and total population size were available, also indicated that the Steller sea lion...
Selection and recombination in populations containing tandem multiplet genes

Computer simulation for selective conditions that may apply in nature yielded three generalizations for prokaryotic organisms with recombinant mechanisms. (1) Selective forces can suffice to maintain a tandem gene family with the nearly optimum number of genes with little variance within the population. (2) Tandem genes will occur within the population unless the population is frequently cloned or unless the function due to a single copy is capable of over-providing the needs of the organism. (3) Even when there is no selective advantage or disadvantage due to extra gene copies, the population distribution becomes more skewed with time; and organisms with only single copies of the gene comprise a progressively larger fraction of the total. This may be the case with genes that function under strong cellular regulation. Evolutionary implications of these calculations are that the occurrence of unequal recombination of tandem genes would greatly slow evolution via duplication of genetic material. This difficulty and its possible resolutions are discussed.
Extended industrial revolution and climate change

The earth's climate has changed noticeably within man's recorded history and much more dramatically during that longer period whose record we must examine in the geology of earth's crustal rock. To plan an intelligent use of our resources, we must frame our plans in a total environment; and the earth's climate is perhaps the determinant factor in this environment. We must understand how the climate is going to change and whether man's activities can influence climate. It is clear that if our activities are of sufficient scale to cause the climate to deteriorate, then they might also be made to improve it, at least for some minority of the earth's population. Understanding is also important on the part of those whose interest might be restraining such experiments.
The interrelationships of the gut microbiome and inflammation in colorectal carcinogenesis.

The etiology of colorectal cancer (CRC) is multifactorial with genetic, molecular, inflammatory, and environmental risk factors. Recently, the gut microbiota is recognized as a new environmental contributor to CRC in both animal models and human studies. An additional interplay of the gut microbiome with inflammation is also evident in studies that have demonstrated that inflammation alone or the presence of bacteria/bacterial metabolites alone is not enough to promote tumorigenesis. Rather, complex interrelationships with the gut microbiome, inflammation, genetics, and other environmental factors are evident in colorectal tumor progression.
Time series analysis of a predator–prey system: Application of VAR and generalized impulse response function

Abstract The maintenance of population densities requires information as to how organisms react to intended as well as unintended changes. This paper demonstrates the usefulness of multiple-equation and innovation accounting time series techniques that are well-suited for analyzing the responses of variables to unexpected changes (i.e., shocks) in other variables. The analysis is conducted within the context of a predator–prey system. A vector autoregression is estimated. The time series model characterizes the interactions and dynamics inherent in a system of two freshwater organisms. The recently developed method of generalized impulse response analysis is used to simulate the responses of the organisms to disturbances. The results indicated that there are significant responses of the population density growth rate of the predator (prey) to shocks in the growth rate of the prey (predator) population density that are not captured by standard interpretation of the multiple equation model results. This method provides insight into the transmission of shocks in the predator–prey relationship.
Aldosterone production during dietary sodium restriction and beta-adrenergic blockade.

Aldosterone production during dietary sodium restriction and beta-adrenergic blockade. The role of the renin-angiotensin system in mediating the aldosterone response to sodium depletion was examined by administration of propranolol during dietary sodium restriction. The beta-adrenergic antagonist prevented the expected increase of plasma renin activity in response to sodium restriction in six of twelve studies. Plasma angiotensin II concentration failed to increase in four of five subjects in whom the renin response was abolished. Despite unchanged or decreased plasma renin activity and plasma angiotensin II concentration, plasma aldosterone concentration increased significantly in response to dietary sodium restriction. The increase in aldosterone production could not be attributed to changes in plasma sodium or potassium concentration or increased ACTH secretion. It is suggested that the aldosterone response to sodium restriction is mediated not only by increased plasma renin activity and angiotensin II concentration, but also by another mechanism, possibly related to increased adrenal sensitivity to angiotensin during sodium depletion. Production d'aldosterone au cours de la restriction de sodium alimentaire et de l'administration de beta-bloquants. Le role du systeme renine-angiotensine dans la mediation de la reponse de la secretion d'aldosterone a la depletion en sodium a ete etudie au moyen de l'administration de propranolol au cours de la restriction de sodium alimentaire. Le beta-bloquant empeche l'augmentation de l'activite renine plasmatique en reponse a la restriction de sodium au cours de six sur douze des etudes ainsi conduites. La concentration plasmatique d'angiotensine II n'a pas augmente chez quatre des cinq sujets chez lesquels la reponse de la renine etait abolie. Malgre l'activite renine plasmatique et la concentration plasmatique d'angiotensine II inchangees ou diminuees la concentration plasmatique d'aldosterone a augmente significativement en reponse a la restriction du sodium alimentaire. L'augmentation de la production d'aldosterone ne peut pas etre attribuee a des modifications des concentrations plasmatiques du sodium ou du potassium ou a une augmentation de la secretion d'ACTH. Il est suggere que la reponse de l'aldosterone a la restriction du sodium a pour mediateur non seulement l'augmentation de l'activite renine plasmatique et de la concentration d'angiotensine II mais aussi un autre mecanisme qui pourrait etre lie a une augmentation de la sensibilite de la surŕnale a l'angiotensine au cours de la depletion en sodium.
Urinary free cortisol levels in anxiety.

Abstract Levels of urinary free cortisol (UFC) were determined in 22 patients who met Research Diagnostic Criteria for anxiety disorder (after one week of placebo washout) and in a control group of 22 nonanxious volunteers. Nonsignificant differences were found in the mean cortisol levels, which generally were within normal limits. In this study chronic moderate to severe anxiety did not give rise to hypersecretion and result in high levels of UFC.
Crack propagation in an elastic solid subjected to general loading—II. Non-uniform rate of extension

Abstract The stress intensity factor of a half-plane crack extending non-uniformly in an isotropic elastic solid subjected to general loading is determined. The loading is applied in such a way that a state of plane strain exists and that crack extension takes place in Mode I. The crack tip is initially at rest and then moves in an arbitrary way in the plane of the crack. In the process of obtaining the stress intensity factor, the complete elastic field is determined for a crack which starts from some initial position, extends at a constant rate for some time, and then suddenly stops. Once the stress intensity factor is known for arbitrary motion of the crack tip, the Griffith fracture criterion is applied to obtain an equation of motion for the crack tip which is consistent with the assumptions of this criterion. Numerical results are included for the stress intensity factor and for the velocity-dependent term in the equation of motion.
Sensory Characteristics of Milk Chocolate with Lactose from Spray‐Dried Milk Powder

Dry whole-milk powders with 0-70% nominal lactose prepared by spray-drying alone (containing amorphous lactose) or combined with post-drying crystallization (containing crystalline lactose) were incorporated into milk chocolate to give 0-50% substitution of lactose for sucrose. No significant differences occurred in sweet, bitter, and thickness of melt (P > 0.10) based on milk powder preparation method or lactose concentration. As lactose increased, hardness and onset of melt increased regardless of milk powder preparation method; but, chocolates containing crystalline lactose were softer than those containing amorphous lactose. Higher chocolate, milk and caramel flavors were perceived in milk chocolates containing crystalline lactose. Graininess of milk chocolate increased at the highest level of added lactose.
Unusual Surgical Lesions Affecting the Optic Nerves and Chiasm

Six uncommon cases of tumor are described with ophthalmological features in all and necropsy findings in two. From The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
OPTIMAL DESIGN OF A PNEUNOTACHOGRAPH HEAD WITH RESPECT TO DEAD SPACE AND RESISTANCE

In pneumotachography, the inclusion of a pneumotachograph head in the respiratory pathway increases the apparatus dead space and the resistance to breathing. There is a strong relationship between dead space and total resistance of a pneumotachograph head at given flow and differential pressure (measuring resistance). Low total resistance compared to the measuring resistance leads to a large cross-section and a big volume of the head and vice versa. We developed a mathematical method for the exact dimensioning of a pneumotachograph head (Spirorezeptor) for relevant differential pressures and flows. One fabricated high linearity, small dead space Spirorezeptar for use in infants offers many advantages compared with the Fleisch head NEO from PEDS unit. The parameters at V' = 8 1/min are:
Arctic tundra ice-wedge landscape characterization by active contours without edges and structural analysis using high-resolution satellite imagery

In this letter, we present a semi-automated approach to identify and classify Arctic polygonal tundra landscape components, such as troughs, ponds, rivers and lakes, using high spatial resolution satellite imagery. The approach starts by segmenting water bodies from an image, which are then categorized using shape-based classification. Segmentation uses combination of multispectral bands and is based on the active contours without edges technique. The segmentation is robust to noise and can detect objects with weak boundaries, which is important for the extraction of troughs. Classification of the regions is accomplished by utilizing distance transform and regional structural characteristics. The approach is evaluated using 0.6 m resolution WorldView-2 satellite image of ice-wedge polygonal tundra. The segmentation user’s and producer’s accuracies are approximately 92% and 97%, respectively. Visual inspection of the classification results has demonstrated qualitatively accurate object categorization.
Controlling Chua's global unfolding circuit family

The self-unified and conventional feedback control strategy developed by the present author and his colleagues for the control of chaotic dynamical systems is extended from the Chua's circuit to its global unfolding, driving the circuit dynamics from chaotic attractors to any desirable trajectories such as unstable limit cycles. A simple and realistic sufficient condition for such controllability of the global unfolding is derived. A similar sufficient condition for the controllability of the whole family of nonlinear dynamical systems that are topologically equivalent to the Chua global unfolding is also established. >
The relationship of geophysical measurements to engineering and construction parameters in the Straight Creek Tunnel pilot bore, Colorado

Abstract Seismic-refraction and electrical-resistivity measurements made along the walls of the Straight Creek Tunnel pilot bore indicate that both a low-velocity and a high-resistivity layer exist in the disturbed rock surrounding the excavation. Seismic measurements were analyzed to obtain the thickness and seismic velocity of rock in the low-velocity layer, the velocity of rock behind the layer and the amplitude of seismic energy received at the detectors. Electrical-resistivity measurements were analyzed to obtain the thickness and electrical resistivity of the high-resistivity layer and the resistivity of rock behind the layer. The electrical resistivity and the seismic velocity of rock at depth, the thickness of rock in the low-velocity layer, and the relative amplitude of seismic energy were correlated against the following parameters, all of which are important in tunnel construction: height of the tension arch, stable vertical rock load, rock quality, rate of construction and cost per foot, percentage of lagging and blocking, set spacing, and type and amount of steel support required, The correlations were statistically meaningful, having correlation coefficients ranging in absolute value from about 0·7 to nearly 1·0. This finding suggests the possibility of predicting parameters of interest in tunnel construction from geophysical measurements made in feeler holes drilled ahead of a working face. Predictions might be based on correlations established either during the early stages of construction or from geophysical surveys in other tunnels of similar design in similar geologic environments.
Specific labelling of ganglion cells in the cat retina by a monoclonal antibody

The introduction of monoclonal antibody technology has made it possible to produce specific markers for various retinal cell types. We report here on a monoclonal antibody, AB5, which specifically labels the retinal ganglion cells of the cat. The labelled cells could be categorized as either alpha, beta or gamma subtype based on morphological criteria. This antibody will be useful for studies of the morphology, localization and synaptic connectivity of ganglion cells in the cat retina.
The effective use of heat transfer additives for steam condensation

Abstract Reported herein are the results of the experimental investigations on the effect of small amounts of heat transfer additives (C add ppm ) on steam condensation in a bundle of horizontal tubes that are internally cooled. The condenser was designed with 12 tubes in an array of three horizontals and four verticals with a 2-in. horizontal and 1.5-in. vertical in-line pitch. By using effective additives, the condensation heat transfer rate can be augmented as much as 30% as compared with heat transfer that operated without additives under the same operating condition. The steam condensation, which occurred in our experiments while using effective additives, was mostly dropwise like. When heat transfer additives function effectively, the condensate-droplets become more dispersed and have a smaller shape than those produced without additives. These droplets, unlike traditional turbulence, start at the top portion of the condenser tubes and cover most of the tubes. Such a flow behavior can be explained by the Marangoni effect (in terms of thermodynamic equilibrium) in connection with obtained surface tension data. Furthermore, we extend our discussion to the dynamic effect of surface tension in the steam condensation process and propose a general criterion for selecting effective additives. In our experiments, we noted that the use of heat transfer additives such as 2-ethyl-1-hexanol for steam condensation was highly effective.
Upstream genomic sequence of the human connexin26 gene

Abstract Human connexin 26 (Cx26) has been considered to be a candidate suppressor gene in mammary epithelial cells. To gain insight into the transcriptional regulation of this gene, we have cloned and sequenced the 5′ portion of the gene, which extends 4.8 kb upstream from the ATG translation start site. The 3′ end of the non-coding exon 1 (160 bp) is located at 3149 bp upstream from the 5′ end of exon 2. Comparison between the human Cx26 gene and the mouse gene reveals a highly conserved promoter region with 81% homology. In addition to six GC boxes and two GT boxes, a TTAAAA box is located at −24 to −19 bp upstream of the transcription start point. Analogous to the mouse β-casein gene, the promoter region of the human Cx26 gene also contains a YY1-like binding site and a consensus mammary gland factor binding site.
Multifunctional proteins: one gene-more than one enzyme

Abstract In some eukaryotic multienzyme complexes, different enzymes are linked covalently, probably as discrete domains of a single polypeptide chain. Covalent linkage will assure coordinately controlled synthesis of each enzyme and, in the complicated environment of the cell, will stabilize the complexes more effectively than non-covalent associations.
Multiple algorithm solution to the artificial intelligence design challenge

This paper responds to the Artificial Intelligence Design Challenge at the 1987 AIAA Guidance, Navigation, and Control Conference. It describes a computer program that solves a variation of the classical traveling salesman problem that is representative of problems encountered in complex guidance and control systems. The problem is to find a tour connecting some or all of 11 cities that maximizes the total value of the cities visited while meeting a travel budget constraint. The solution procedure used was to construct several candidate tours using a variety of approaches, then adjust the highest-value tour found by solving the traveling salesman problem to find the optimal city ordering. An efficient bounding procedure was used to reduce the number of computations required to evaluate the stochastic budget constraint. The program consistently produced in a small amount of time the best answers known on 25 data sets designed to test the program's robustness.
A translating computer interface for a network of heterogeneous interactive information retrieval systems

The need for a network of heterogeneous interactive bibliographic information retrieval systems is projected from the facts of wide acceptance and growing demand for these systems and the limitations of their use caused by limited online data base size. Because of the established characters of the different I-R systems and unlikelihood that a standardized I-R system leading directly to the ultimate uniform network will soon be generally adopted, we propose an intermediate solution in which computer interfaces would provide the networking capability by translating and converting among the diverse languages and data bases of existing systems.We have begun work on such a network in which the computer interface is based on the concept of a common language for commands, indexing vocabularies, and data base structures. In particular, the common language for commands and data base structures is based on identifying the basic or primitive I-R functions and bibliographic data base elements. The conversion among indexing vocabularies is based on the concept of a Master Index and Thesaurus containing the conglomerate thesaurus information from the separate data bases. In addition, the phrase decomposition and stemming of the individual words in the search request and subject index phrases are used as further techniques for automated conversion among diverse vocabularies. An initial experimental interface is described which interconnects the M.I.T. Intrex system, the MEDLINE retrieval system, and the TYMNET computer network using the ARPANET Terminal Interface Processors for intercomputer communication.
Quantifying Medicinal Plant Knowledge among Non–Specialist Antanosy Villagers in Southern Madagascar

Quantifying Medicinal Plant Knowledge among Non–Specialist Antanosy Villagers in Southern Madagascar. Medicinal plant knowledge among non–specialist Antanosy villagers of southeastern Madagascar was investigated in a two–stage study. First, free–listing was used to collect the names of medicinal plants most familiar to local people. Data were organized by habitat and frequency into a short list of the 42 most frequently listed plants by habitat. A second group of interviewees were asked to name health conditions that could be treated with plants on the short list. Age, gender, and dwelling proximity to the forest were tested across the general habitat in which medicinal plants were found: in or near the village, in disturbed buffer areas between the village and the forest, or in the forest itself. Neither age nor gender was significant in free–listing. Naming health conditions treated with specific plants showed that knowledge increases with age and that for all but the oldest age group, women knew more plant uses than men. Women knew more plants from the village and buffer areas, and fewer from the forest than men. The proximity of the home to the forest had no influence on medicinal plant knowledge. The non–specialists interviewed named an average of 14 medicinal plants and most knew an average of 37 uses for 9 of the 42 most common medicinal plants. The most common conditions for people knew of plant treatments were stomach ache, babies’ fevers, and several unlisted conditions. Both exotic and endemic plant species were known to the non–specialists indicating that medicinal plant knowledge is being sustained and adapted to changes affecting both the people and their environment.
The RAG1 and RAG2 Proteins Establish the 12/23 Rule in V(D)J Recombination

V(D)J recombination requires a pair of signal sequences with spacer lengths of 12 and 23 base pairs. Cleavage by the RAG1 AND RAG2 proteins was previously shown to demand only a single signal sequence. Here, we established conditions where 12- and 23-spacer signal sequences are both necessary for cleavage. Coupled cutting at both sites requires only the RAG1 and RAG2 proteins, but depends on the metal ion. In Mn2+, a single signal sequence supports efficient double strand cleavage, but cutting in Mg2+ requires two signal sequences and is best with the canonical 12/23 pair. Thus, the RAG proteins determine both aspects of the specificity of V(D)J recombination, the recognition of a single signal sequence and the correct 12/23 coupling in a pair of signals.
Heat Transfer Characteristics of Gas Spacer Cables

Heat transfer characteristics of the Gas Spacer Cable (GSPC) was investigated using a model cable. This paper presents the formulae which can be used to calculate the heat transfer of both a 3-core type GSPC and a 1-core type. This paper also describes the effect of gas pressure and gas mixture on the heat transfer characteristics.
Tailoring treatment with dual-career couples

Abstract Clinicians are increasingly consulted by couples whose conflicts arise from or are exacerbated by a dual-career relationship. Therapy with these couples can be greatly aided when treatment is tailored to the unique needs of their relational system. A protocol for tailoring treatment based on a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment is described and illustrated with case material.
Lower serum osteocalcin in ethanol‐fed rats

Serum osteocalcin was remarkably and significantly (-34 and −41% in two separate experiments; p < 0.001) lower in rats fed an 8% (w/v) ethanol liquid diet (ELD) for 1 week than in rats fed an isocaloric control liquid diet (CLD). In a longer experiment that spanned 4 weeks, the ELD rats were given 6% ethanol on day 4, increased stepwise to 8% by day 9, and then maintained at 8% until day 28, when the experiment was terminated. Again, serum osteocalcin was much lower (-32%, p < 0.001) in the ELD-fed rats than in CLD-fed rats. Even in rats fed only a 6% ELD for 12 days, serum osteocalcin was lower (-33%, p < 0.001) than in controls. Also, the femora were weaker, more compliant, and more ductile in ELD- than in CLD-fed rats, findings that confirmed our earlier, related work. The fall in serum osteocalcin in ELD-fed rats is associated with a fall in femur ash weight and bone strength. There were significant correlations between serum osteocalcin and bone strength (r = 0.80; p < 0.001) and between serum osteocalcin and bone stiffness (r = 0.83; p < 0.001). Serum ionized calcium, like osteocalcin, was consistently lower in rats given ethanol for 1 or 4 weeks than in controls. From these experiments we conclude that excessive ethanol consumption inhibits osteoblastic activity as indicated by the reduced serum osteocalcin. The inhibition is also associated with other deleterious effects of ethanol on bone, including ash weight, bone strength, and bone stiffness. These results in rats suggest that serum osteocalcin may be a useful biologic marker of bone status in alcoholic patients.
Pharmacokinetics of methotrexate and 7-hydroxy-methotrexate in rabbits after intravenous administration

The pharmacokinetics of methotrexate (MTX) and 7-hydroxy-methotrexate (7-OH-MTX), a major metabolite, were investigated in rabbits after intravenous bolus injection and infusion using a specific HPLC assay. The arterial sampling (from the carotid artery) was used in all the studies since peculiar and significant arterial-venous differences in the plasma concentration of MTX and 7-OH-MTX were found following bolus administration of the drug. The disposition kinetics of MTX appeared polyexponential with a small terminal phase having a half-life of 10.2-27.5 hr. Extensive formation of 7-OH-MTX occurred at the two dose levels (15 and 50 mg/kg). Nonlinear disposition of MTX was reflected in several aspects of data analysis. A disproportionate increase in the AUC with dose was observed. An increase in dose not only reduced the mean total body clearance (7.49 vs. 4.26 ml/min/kg) and renal clearance (4.89 vs. 2.76 ml/min/kg), but also prolonged the mean residence time (26.2 vs. 43.3 min). The steady-state volume of distribution (Vss) of MTX was estimated to range from 0.16 to 0.25 L/kg. More than 90% of the dose was excreted as MTX and 7-OH-MTX within 8 hr after dosing. Renal clearances decreased with the increasing plasma levels, suggesting active tubular secretion as one of the excretion mechanisms. A similar pattern for renal clearance of 7-OH-MTX was obtained. Infusion studies of 7-OH-MTX revealed that this metabolite had a longer residence time and a larger Vss as compared with MTX, which were in accordance with its physicochemical properties. Essentially complete doses of 7-OH-MTX could be recovered in the rabbit urine.
Autopsy demonstration of intramyocardial polymer gel emboli associated with a giant-cell reaction following cardiac catheterization: a case report

Abstract Background Foreign body type granulomatous vasculitis has been reported in blood vessels of the brain, lungs, and skin of the foot following intravascular instrumentation with devices coated with hydrophilic polymer gel. We report a case of intramyocardial polymer gel emboli associated with granulomatous vasculitis following cardiac catheterization. Method Autopsy observations in a 77-year-old woman are presented. The patient experienced an acute myocardial infarction requiring catheterization and coronary stenting. The patient returned with a pseudoaneurysm at the site of catheterization and shortly after suffered a fatal arrhythmia. Results Microscopically, multiple small vessels within the myocardium were noted to contain a basophilic, amorphous, focally lamellated, focally granular material. A granulomatous inflammatory response was noted in the vessels containing the foreign material. Conclusions Our case is the first to our knowledge to document intramyocardial vessel gel emboli following a cardiac catheterization with stenting. Although the microscopic finding of emboli within vessels does not seem to be the immediate cause of death in our case, it is highly possible that it contributed to the patient's demise.
The eruption of Mount St. Helens, March–September 1980

The violent eruptions of Mount St. Helens in 1980 have dramatically brought volcanism to public attention. Scientists of many disciplines have been provided an unparalleled opportunity to study explosive volcanism and its effects. A brief summary of the eruptions and of the varied research on its processes and products follows. After a week of local seismicity, Mount St. Helens began to eject steam and ash on March 27, breaking 123 years of quiet. The eruption was the first in the contiguous United States since the 1914–1917 activity of Mt. Lassen, California. Pulses of steam and ash rose as much as 3 km above the summit of Mount St. Helens during the first 10 days, producing slight ashfalls as far away as Spokane, 500 km to the east-northeast. By April 8, two initially separate active vents had coalesced into a single crater at least 500 m long by 350 m wide. Explosions decreased in both size and ash content through April, and by late month, episodic explosions had been replaced by continuous steaming. No fresh magma was identified in any of the March-April ejecta.
Latin American Ports: Results and Determinants of Private Sector Participation

The Latin American major ports are no longer inefficient state-run public monopolies. Common user ports tend to be concessioned under a landlord scheme, whereas specialised ports and terminals are more often privately owned or leased. New infrastructure is still being constructed, and regional and international private port companies participate in the port operations. The most renowned successes are Panama, Argentina, Mexico, and Colombia, but not all countries have advanced equally. The demand for private sector participation depends on the desire of the public sector to promote foreign trade and the need to reduce its fiscal burden. The supply of private sector participation by port operating companies appears to depend on the port's hinterland and the perceived country risk. Perceived corruption, illiteracy, and a pending broader structural reform seem to have a negative impact on both demand and on supply. The same socio-economic situation that, up to now, has acted as an obstacle to port reform in the poorest Latin American countries should be considered as motivation to proceed with the necessary reforms in the future. Privatised port operations may help the urgently needed general structural reform of the economy, including better education and more stable public institutions – which in turn will reduce the remaining obstacles for port privatisation. The challenge for policy makers is to initiate this virtuous cycle.
The assessment of paranoid features

Abstract Paranoid features are among the most dramatic and serious disturbances in psychiatry and medicine. Yet the term paranoid refers to a variety of behaviors that are difficult to define, often not psychopathologic, and not necessarily related to schizophrenia. Hence, use of the term paranoid is generally vague and confusing. The author suggests a clarification to guide clinical assessment and differential diagnosis. Cases illustrating these problems are discussed.
Biochemical analysis of the diverse functions of the HTLV-1-encoded oncoprotein Tax

The human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus, type I (HTLV-I)-encoded Tax protein is a potent transcription factor and oncoprotein. Therefore, studies on Tax function have provided critical insights into fundamental mechanisms of transcriptional activation and clues to the process of malignant transformation. Biochemical analysis of recombinant, purified Tax has yielded significant insights into many of its diverse functions, despite the absence of potentially important post-translational modifications. We will present evidence demonstrating the potent transcriptional activation function of Tax in vitro, including dissection of the interactions between Tax and specific cellular transcription factors that led to the discovery of Tax-mediated disruptions in chromatin architecture. This presentation will also describe several important findings regarding the molecular defect in Tax M47, which carries point mutations in the activation domain that render the Tax mutant defective for HTLV transcription. Comparison of the physical and functional properties of wild-type and mutant Tax reveals similar profiles in size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and nearly identical affinity profiles in activator/co activator complex formation; paradoxical observations given the pronounced defect in the ability of Tax M47 to activate HTLV-1 transcription. Importantly, proteolysis assays revealed that TaxM47 produces a distinct digestion pattern relative to wild-type Tax, suggesting that M47 folds into a distinct tertiary structure that is not detected in SEC analysis. Together, these findings further underscore the outstanding potential of native and recombinant Tax to probe the molecular basis of transcriptional activation in higher eukaryotes, as well as the significant potential of Tax in uncovering diverse, yet fundamental, cellular processes.
Wind persistence from 2-18 km using a wind profiler

Existing techniques for quantifying the effects of temporal wind variability on launch vehicles employ very limited sets of wind profile pairs derived from rising balloons. Variability due to spatial differences between the drifting balloon and a vehicle trajectory are traditionally ignored. The authors developed a technique to extract high quality wind profiles at frequent time intervals from a Doppler Radar Wind Profiler. This technique was applied to a limited number of data sets gathered from December 1990 through March 1992 at the Kennedy Space Center using the NASA 50 Mhz Wind Profiler. The authors then used these derived wind profiles to demonstrate techniques for quantifying the effects of temporal and spatial variability.
Pattern of diversity in the genomic region near the maize domestication gene tb1.

Domesticated maize and its wild ancestor (teosinte) differ strikingly in morphology and afford an opportunity to examine the connection between strong selection and diversity in a major crop species. The tb1 gene largely controls the increase in apical dominance in maize relative to teosinte, and a region of the tb1 locus 5′ to the transcript sequence was a target of selection during maize domestication. To better characterize the impact of selection at a major “domestication” locus, we have sequenced the upstream tb1 genomic region and systematically sampled nucleotide diversity for sites located as far as 163 kb upstream to tb1. Our analyses define a selective sweep of ≈60–90 kb 5′ to the tb1 transcribed sequence. The selected region harbors a mixture of unique sequences and large repetitive elements, but it contains no predicted genes. Diversity at the nearest 5′ gene to tb1 is typical of that for neutral maize loci, indicating that selection at tb1 has had a minimal impact on the surrounding chromosomal region. Our data also show low intergenic linkage disequilibrium in the region and suggest that selection has had a minor role in shaping the pattern of linkage disequilibrium that is observed. Finally, our data raise the possibility that maize-like tb1 haplotypes are present in extant teosinte populations, and our findings also suggest a model of tb1 gene regulation that differs from traditional views of how plant gene expression is controlled.
Loss of Vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) Activity in Yeast Generates an Iron Deprivation Signal That Is Moderated by Induction of the Peroxiredoxin TSA2*

Vacuolar H+-ATPases (V-ATPases) acidify intracellular organelles and help to regulate overall cellular pH. Yeast vma mutants lack V-ATPase activity and allow exploration of connections between cellular pH, iron, and redox homeostasis common to all eukaryotes. A previous microarray study in a vma mutant demonstrated up-regulation of multiple iron uptake genes under control of Aft1p (the iron regulon) and only one antioxidant gene, the peroxiredoxin TSA2 (Milgrom, E., Diab, H., Middleton, F., and Kane, P. M. (2007) Loss of vacuolar proton-translocating ATPase activity in yeast results in chronic oxidative stress. J. Biol. Chem. 282, 7125–7136). Fluorescent biosensors placing GFP under transcriptional control of either an Aft1-dependent promoter (PFIT2-GFP) or the TSA2 promoter (PTSA2-GFP) were constructed to monitor transcriptional signaling. Both biosensors were up-regulated in the vma2Δ mutant, and acute V-ATPase inhibition with concanamycin A induced coordinate up-regulation from both promoters. PTSA2-GFP induction was Yap1p-dependent, indicating an oxidative stress signal. Total cell iron measurements indicate that the vma2Δ mutant is iron-replete, despite up-regulation of the iron regulon. Acetic acid up-regulated PFIT2-GFP expression in wild-type cells, suggesting that loss of pH control contributes to an iron deficiency signal in the mutant. Iron supplementation significantly decreased PFIT2-GFP expression and, surprisingly, restored PTSA2-GFP to wild-type levels. A tsa2Δ mutation induced both nuclear localization of Aft1p and PFIT2-GFP expression. The data suggest a novel function for Tsa2p as a negative regulator of Aft1p-driven transcription, which is induced in V-ATPase mutants to limit transcription of the iron regulon. This represents a new mechanism bridging the antioxidant and iron-regulatory pathways that is intimately linked to pH homeostasis.
Ischemic preconditioning of skeletal muscle mitigates remote injury and mortality.

Background Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) mitigates ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in experimental models. However, the clinical significance of this protection has been unclear and a mortality reduction has not been previously reported in noncardiac models. This study examined the local and remote protection afforded by skeletal muscle IPC and sought to determine the significance of this protection on mortality. Methods Mice subjected to 2 h hindlimb ischemia/24 h reperfusion (standard I/R injury) were compared with those undergoing a regimen of two 20-min cycles of IPC followed by standard I/R injury. Local injury was assessed via gastrocnemius histology, and remote injury was evaluated via intestinal histology and pulmonary neutrophil infiltration ( n = 7). Mortality was compared in parallel groups for 1 week ( n = 6). Groups were analyzed using an unpaired Student's t- test for gastrocnemius and pulmonary injury, and a Mann-Whitney rank sum test for intestinal injury. Mortality differences were interpreted through a hazard ratio. Results Significant protection was observed in preconditioned animals. There was a 35% local injury reduction in skeletal muscle (71.2% versus 46.0%, P versus 1.1, P versus 8.5, P Conclusions We have developed a murine model of IPC that demonstrates local and remote protection against I/R injury, and exhibits significant mortality reduction. This model demonstrates the powerful effect of IPC on local and remote tissues and will facilitate further study of potential mechanisms and therapies.
Survey of Nutritional Problems Encountered in Children with Neuromotor Disorders

A survey of 200 patients ranging in age from 5-21 yr was undertaken in 3 facilities in central Pennsylvania: state- (100), county- (13), and privately-operated (66), together with 21 children being cared for at home. Their diagnoses included chromosomal, metabolic, and anatomic abnormalities, and other encephalopathies. The following nutritional problems were identified: 1) inadequate nutrient intake due to feeding technique, swallowing difficulties, or regurgitation; 2) obesity and low activity level; 3) constipation; 4) nutrient-drug interactions and allergies; and 5) inadequate standards with which to compare growth and adequacy of nutrient intake. The nutritional problems encountered in these pediatric patients with neuromotor disorders warrant management by a physician-nutritionist team skilled in nutritional assessment and techniques of providing nutritional support.
On the number of positive solutions of nonlinear systems

Abstract We prove that appropriate combinations of superlinearity and sublinearity of f(u) with respect to Φ at zero and infinity guarantee the existence, multiplicity, and nonexistence of positive solutions to boundary value problems for the n-dimensional system ( Φ ( u ′ ))′+λ h (t) f(u) =0, 0 Φ is defined by Φ ( u ′ )=(ϕ(u 1 ′),…,ϕ(u n ′)), where u =(u 1 ,…,u n ) and ϕ covers the two important cases ϕ(u′ )=u′ and ϕ(u′ )=|u′| p−2 u′ , p>1. Our methods employ fixed point theorems in a cone.
Isoelectric focusing analysis of soluble immune complexes bound to protein A-Sepharose.

Abstract Soluble immune complexes were studied by a newly developed procedure which consisted of precipitation at 2.5% polyethylene glycol, binding to immobilized Protein A, and subjecting to isoelectric focusing (pH 3 to 10). In a model system, bovine serum albumin: anti-bovine serum albumin complexes bound to immobilized Protein A were desorbed from the Protein A matrix and dissociated into antigen and antibody. The antigen and antibody components were separated based upon differences in isoelectric points. By this approach, IgG-type immunoglobulins and putative antigens can be detected from biological fluid of human specimens.