cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Protein Kinase A Activity by p90 Ribosomal S6 Kinase 1

Previously, we reported that the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKAc) binds to the active p90 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (RSK1) (Chaturvedi, D., Poppleton, H. M., Stringfield, T., Barbier, A., and Patel, T. B. (2006) Mol. Cell. Biol. 26, 4586–4600). Herein, by overexpressing hemagglutinin-tagged RSK1 fragments in HeLa cells we have identified the region of RSK1 that is responsible for the interaction with PKAc. PKAc bound to the last 13 amino acids of RSK1, which overlaps the Erk1/2 docking site. This interaction between PKAc and RSK1 required the phosphorylation of Ser-732 in the C terminus of RSK1. Depending upon its phosphorylation status, RSK1 switched interactions between Erk1/2 and PKAc. In addition, a peptide corresponding to the last 13 amino acids of RSK1 with substitution of Ser-732 with Glu (peptide E), but not Ala (peptide A), decreased interactions between endogenous active RSK1 and PKAc. RSK1 attenuated the ability of cAMP to activate PKA in vitro and this modulation was abrogated by peptide E, but not by peptide A. Similarly, in intact cells, cAMP-mediated phosphorylation of Bcl-xL/Bcl-2-associated death promoter on Ser-115, the PKA site, was reduced when RSK1 was activated by epidermal growth factor, and this effect was blocked by peptide E, but not by peptide A. These findings demonstrate that interactions between endogenous RSK1 and PKAc in intact cells regulate the ability of cAMP to activate PKA and identify a novel mechanism by which PKA activity is regulated by the Erk1/2 pathway.
Minimally invasive cholecystostomy in the dog: evaluation of placement techniques and use in extrahepatic biliary obstruction.

Objective— To evaluate 4 methods of cholecystostomy catheter placement and to report on laparoscopic (Lap) cholecystostomy for the management of extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) in 3 dogs. Study Design— Experimental study and clinical report. Animals— Cadaveric dogs (n=20); 2 canine and 1 feline patient. Methods— Pigtail cholecystostomy catheters were inserted in 20 canine cadavers using ultrasound (US) or Lap guidance. Insertion routes were either transperitoneal or transhepatic. Methods studied included Lap-transperitoneal, US-transperitoneal, US-transhepatic, and US-Seldinger (n=5 dogs/group). Insertion success, pleural penetration, and insertion site leakage (Lap-transperitoneal group) were evaluated. Three clinical EHBO cases were treated by Lap-transperitoneal technique. Results— Insertion success was 100% by Lap-transperitoneal but 0% with US-transperitoneal and US-Seldinger methods. US-transhepatic yielded 3 of 5 successful placements. The pleura was penetrated in all US-transhepatic and US-Seldinger insertions. Leakage pressure for Lap-transperitoneal catheters averaged 75 cm H2O (±20 cm H2O). Lap-transperitoneal cholecystostomy resulted in marked improvement in 2 dogs, but the catheter became obstructed in the cat. One dog spontaneously regained common bile duct patency and the remaining 2 animals had successful cholecystoenterostomy. Conclusions— In cadaver testing, the Lap-transperitoneal cholecystostomy method was superior based on high insertion success with no pleural penetration. In 2 clinical cases, Lap-transperitoneal placement successfully provided biliary drainage for patient stabilization. Clinical Relevance— The role for temporary cholecystostomy has yet to be established, but may aid patient stabilization and mortality reduction in EHBO.
Microsolvation effects on the electron binding energies of halide anions

Ab initio electron propagator calculations in the partial third order (P3) and P3+ approximations were performed to obtain vertical electron detachment energies (VEDEs) of fluoride and chloride clusters with one through three molecules of water. Larger clusters of F− and Cl− with six water molecules were also treated with and without the polarisable continuum model (PCM). For the smaller clusters, good agreement between calculated VEDEs and peak positions in photoelectron spectra is achieved. Large shifts in VEDEs are observed for both hexameric fluoride–water and chloride–water complexes when the PCM is applied. Significant changes in coordination geometries about the chloride anion also occur in this model. In all fluoride complexes, Dyson orbitals for the lowest VEDEs are delocalised over oxygen atoms. On the contrary, for the case of chloride–water clusters, the Dyson orbitals corresponding to the lowest VEDEs are localised on the anion.
Vitamin D and pelvic floor disorders in women: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

OBJECTIVE:To estimate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in women with pelvic floor disorders and to evaluate possible associations between vitamin D levels and pelvic floor disorders.METHODS:Using 2005–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data, we performed a cross-sectional an
Closed-cell polymer foams for corrosion control in confined metal spaces

Abstract The use of closed-cell plastic polymer foams to control corrosion in hollow, irregular cavities of preexisting metallic structures or assemblages was explored. The method involved blocking...
Joining the Nazi Party Explaining the Political Geography of NSDAP Membership, 1925-1933

The relative strength of competing explanations of Nazism is examined by using a sample of Nationalist Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP) members joining from 1925 to 1933, culled from the Berlin Document Center. Results of a national multivariate model, regressing NSDAP membership rate at the Kreise (county) level on key indicators of competing theories, lends support to what recent analysts have concluded about the Nazi electorate. The NSDAP is best characterized as a catchall party with strongest membership support found in Bavaria and Northwest Germany. Tests for spatial autocorrelation reveal spatial clustering. A spatial-effects model is estimated and results support the political-confessionalism thesis, with mass-society and lower-middle-class explanations invalidated. The spatial lag term is significant, which may represent the importance of preexisting networks to Nazi mobilization and the likelihood that the joining process was one of hierarchical diffusion. Finally, results from regional models emphasize the varied political geography of Nazi membership.
Totalitarian language: Orwell's newspeak and its nazi and communist antecedents

(1994). Totalitarian language: Orwell's newspeak and its nazi and communist antecedents. History of European Ideas: Vol. 18, No. 3, pp. 441-443.
Prediction of Pavement Materials' Impedance Using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity

ABSTRACT There are many factors that influence tire/pavement noise such as road friction and acoustic absorption as well as pavement texture. Highway noise is addressed through several models such as Traffic Noise Model (TNM) developed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) of the United States. The TNM computer program is capable of predicting highway noise, but currently does not take into account the pavement type, or specifically allow the input of pavement material properties. The objective of this study was to develop a mathematical model to calculate the acoustic absorption (impedance) of pavement materials. The model developed was based on mix volumetrics for the specific pavement type. Knowing the volume of each component in the pavement mixture, dampening properties such as the Ultrasonic Pulse Time (UPT) for acoustic wave transmission and the Effective Flow Resistivity (EFR) through the material can be obtained. The scope of work included the evaluation of the dampening properties of diff...
Commentary on Hewapathirane et al. (in vivo imaging of seizure activity in a novel developmental seizure model) seizure-induced brain damage: From tadpoles to children

0014-4886/$ – see front matter © 2008 Elsevier Inc. Al doi:10.1016/j.expneurol.2008.05.005 Epilepsy, a condition characterized by repeated, unprovoked seizures, is unfortunately quite common, affecting approximately 1% of the population (Hauser, 1994), Epilepsy is most common in the first year of life and approximately 75% of epilepsy begins during childhood. The underlying mechanisms responsible for this increased excitability during this period of life are not completely understood but are clearly age-dependent. During the early postnatal period, at a time when the immature brain is highly susceptible to seizures (Jensen et al., 1992; Jensen and Baram, 2000; Khazipov et al., 2004), GABA exerts paradoxical excitatory action, indicating that in the young brain enhanced excitability is due to the excitatory rather than inhibitory actions of GABA (Dzhala and Staley, 2003; Khazipov et al., 2004). The lack of an efficient time-locked inhibition, the delayed maturation of postsynaptic GABA(B)-mediated currents and the high input resistance of small and densely packed neurons also facilitates the generation of action potentials and synchronized activities (Gaiarsa et al., 1995; McLean et al.,1996). As the brainmatures, enhanced excitatory neurotransmission may play an additional role in the propensity for the immature brain to seize as there is an overabundance of excitatory receptors (AMPA and NMDA) (Insel et al., 1990; McDonald et al., 1990; Miller et al., 1990; Brennan et al., 1997). With further maturation, axonal collaterals and attendant synapses regress (Swann et al., 1990, 1991). While seizures are common in children there is controversy regarding whether seizures result in neurological sequelae. It is known that neonatal seizures are often associated with long-term neurological consequences including post-neonatal epilepsy, behavioral problems, and mental retardation (Scher et al., 1989, 1993; Brunquell et al., 2002). While it iswidely recognized that the etiologyof the seizures is a primary determinant of outcome, there remains controversy regarding whether the occurrence of seizures themselves in the young children contribute
What makes real-world interruptions disruptive? evidence from an office setting

With the constant barrage of cell phone calls, emails, instant messages, calendar reminders, and more, interruptions have become a common and consistent occurrence in our daily lives. The majority of the literature on interruptions to date has been based on controlled laboratory experiments and it is not yet completely clear how these results will translate into naturalistic settings and/or if there are certain features of interruptions and resumption that are not observable in the controlled setting. The current study is an exploratory study of how interruptions manifest in the naturalistic environment. We found that when working on computer-based tasks in real-world environments, external interruptions are more disruptive than internal interruptions. However, no reliable difference was shown in resumption time when resuming from multiple interruptions as opposed to single interruptions, and when resuming a different task as opposed to resuming the same task that was interrupted.
Metallic phases of cobalt-based catalysts in ethanol steam reforming: The effect of cerium oxide

Abstract The catalytic activity of cobalt in the production of hydrogen via ethanol steam reforming has been investigated in its relation to the crystalline structure of metallic cobalt. At a reaction temperature of 350 °C, the specific hydrogen production rates show that hexagonal close-packed (hcp) cobalt possesses higher activity than face-centered cubic (fcc) cobalt. However, at typical reaction temperatures (400–500 °C) for ethanol steam reforming, hcp cobalt is transformed to less active fcc cobalt, as confirmed by in situ X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The addition of CeO2 promoter (10 wt.%) stabilizes the hcp cobalt structure at reforming temperatures up to 600 °C. Moreover, during the pre-reduction process, CeO2 promoter prevents sintering during the transformation of Co3O4 to hcp cobalt. Both reforming experiments and in situ diffuse-reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) showed that the surface reactions were modified by CeO2 promoter on 10% Ce–Co (hcp) to give a lower CO selectivity and a higher H2 yield as compared with the unpromoted hcp Co.
Mechanical properties of aluminum-rich AlFeGd metallic glass

Determination a temperature ambiante de la resistance a la rupture par traction et du module de Young dans les alliages Al 87 Fe 8,7 Gd 4,3 , Al 87 Fe 6,7 Gd 6,3 et Al 87 Fe 7,7 Gd 5,3 . Analyse par microscopie electronique a balayage des surfaces de rupture. Influence des petites differences de composition chimique et de la structure transformee partiellement pour les deux premiers alliages
Through-silicon-via aware interconnect prediction and optimization for 3D stacked ICs

Individual dies in 3D integrated circuits are connected using through-silicon-vias (TSVs). TSVs not only increase manufacturing cost, but also incur silicon area, delay, and power overhead. However, the effects of TSV overheads have not been studied thoroughly in the literature. In this paper, we analyze the impact of TSVs on silicon area and wirelength. We derive a new 3D wirelength distribution model considering TSV size. Based on this new prediction model, we explain the impact of several design parameters newly introduced in 3D ICs. We also present a case study to show how the model can help make early design decisions for 3D ICs.
Induction of glucose 6-phosphatase in cultured hepatoma cells by dexamethasone

The synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, induced high levels of glucose 6-phosphatase in a line of cultured hepatoma cells (2S FAZA). This conflicts with current theory that glucocorticoids induce a microsomal translocase, specific for glucose 6-phosphate, but not the hydrolase itself. The earlier conclusion was based on experiments with rat livers in vivo in which cortisone was the inducing agent. In the present study, 5×10−6 M dexamethasone induced a tenfold increase in glucose 6-phosphatase activity in “intact” as well as disrupted microsomes using either glucose 6-phosphate or mannose 6-phosphate as substrate. This induction was blocked by cycloheximide (50 μg/ml). The broad pH maxima between 5.5 and 7.0 were similar for both “intact” and disrupted microsomes.
Oxygen consumption rates of white sturgeon under commercial culture conditions

Abstract Oxygen consumption rates of white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) were measured under commercial culture conditions. Mean fish size ranged from 0.09 to 3.8 kg (0.2–8.4 lbs). Mean daily values of oxygen consumption rates ranged from 70–330 mg kg fish−1 h−1. Peak oxygen consumption rates were measured to be as much as twice the mean daily values and were seen to occur in response to feeding for fish fed a ration of less than 2.6% body mass per day. With higher feed rations, peak oxygen consumption rates were a smaller percentage of the mean daily value. Multiple regression analysis showed that 93% of the variations in measured oxygen consumption rate values could be attributed to variations in feed ration.
Reduction of Shp-2 expression by small interfering RNA reduces murine embryonic stem cell-derived in vitro hematopoietic differentiation.

Shp-2 is a member of a small family of cytoplasmic Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatases. Although Shp-2 has been shown to be necessary for hematopoiesis using a mouse model expressing a mutant residual protein (Shp-2Δ/Δ), we used small interfering RNA (siRNA) to reduce Shp-2 expression and examined the consequences on embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived hemangioblast, primitive, and definitive hematopoietic development. We found that at a concentration of 50 nM, Shp-2 siRNA effectively diminished Shp-2 expression in differentiating embryoid bodies. Hemangioblast, primitive, and definitive hematopoietic progenitor formation was decreased significantly after transfection with Shp-2 siRNA but not with scrambled siRNA. Because Shp-2 is involved in signals emanating from the basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) receptor, we asked whether Shp-2 functions in bFGF-mediated hemangioblast development. Reduction of Shp-2 expression using siRNA, but not scrambled siRNA, blocked the bFGF-induced increase in hemangioblast development. Using siRNA as an independent method of reducing Shp-2 function, in contrast to the mutant mouse model (Shp-2Δ/Δ) previously used, we demonstrate that Shp-2 is required in hemangioblast, primitive, and definitive progenitor hematopoietic development and that Shp-2 is integrally necessary for bFGF-mediated hemangioblast production.
Vapour pressure measurements on 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134a) from 180 to 350 K

Measurements of vapour pressures were made for 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134a) from 180 to 350 K by using a static cell. Temperatures were measured with a platinum resistance thermometer to within an accuracy of ±0.03 K. Pressures were measured with calibrated oscillating quartz-crystal pressure transducers with uncertainties estimated to range from 0.02 to 1.8 kPa.
The Burden of Dealing with Poor Performers Wear and Tear on Supervisory Organizational Engagement

Using Albert Hirschman's (1970) theory of exit, voice, loyalty, and neglect as measures of organizational effectiveness, this study examines the response of supervisors to dealing with poor performers. In recent years, the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board has focused its Merit Principles Surveys (MPS) on issues directly linked to its role—prohibited practices, retention, grievance and discipline, and so on—and the role supervisors play in their cause and remedy. In the 2000 MPS, there are a number of items that address supervisory efforts in dealing with “poor performers.” These run the gamut from identifying performance discrepancies through providing feedback and developmental opportunities to seeking removal. There are also items that assess the supervisors' perceptions of difficulties in engaging in these activities. Using regression analyses, the author examines these factors with respect to their impact on individual supervisors' perceptions of their own organizational engagement. The performance...
Reflections on Iris Marion Young's Justice and the Politics of Difference

In this brief contribution, we highlight some of the ways Iris Marion Young's Justice and the Politics of Difference has served as both a touchstone and a challenge to feminist political theorists struggling to deal with the complexities of “equality” and community. We look briefly at three seemingly different cases, showing how Young's critique of impartiality in this book helps to illuminate what is wrong with the recent Supreme Court decision in Parents Involved in Community Schools vs. Seattle School District No. 1 et al. It also helps us clarify our thinking about how to remedy unequal access to reproductive technologies and shows how the recognition of group difference is an important counterweight to a false universality.
Examining SeaWiFS chlorophyll variability along the Louisiana coast using wavelet analysis

Multiyear time-series satellite derived chlorophyll a concentrations (Chi) were used to examine the dominant scales of Chi variability with distance offshore from the coast in waters influenced by the discharge from the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Wavelet analysis was applied to almost ten years (1998–2007) of 15-day averaged, 2 km resolution Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS) along three zones influenced by the two large rivers. River discharge and monthly-mean fields of QuikSCAT satellite derived wind stress superimposed on SeaWiFS Chi distributions provided additional insights on the Chi variability in the region. In a zone immediately west of the Mississippi delta at the 20-m isobath, seasonal maxima in peak Chi variance were associated with seasonal peaks in river discharge with maxima in 1999 and 2004. Offshore at the 500 m isobath, similar peaks occurred with less regularity with interannual maxima in Chi variance occurring in 1998, 2003 and 2007 that appeared to be influenced mainly by the offshore wind stress that transported river plume waters with elevated Chi offshore. Although similar, Chi variability was generally lower in the zone off the Atchafalaya River than off the Mississippi River. Periods of Chi variance were generally of longer duration offshore than nearshore. In a zone west of the Atchafalaya River where Hurricane Rita made landfall, a significant peak in Chi variance appeared to be associated with the effects of the Hurricane.
The role of immune activation in contributing to vascular dysfunction and the pathophysiology of hypertension during preeclampsia

Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal death and perinatal morbidity and still the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease remain largely unknown. The most well accepted hypothesis for the genesis of the disease is that placental ischemia/hypoxia results from inadequate remodeling of the maternal uterine spiral arteries, which leads to a decrease in uteroplacental blood flow. Subsequently factors are released from the ischemic placenta showering the maternal vascular endothelium. These factors include a host of molecules such as the soluble VEGF receptor-1 (sFlt-1), the angiotensin II type-1 receptor autoantibody (AT1-AA), and cytokines such as TNF-a and Interleukin 6 which in turn generate widespread dysfunction of the maternal vascular endothelium. This dysfunction results in elevated circulating endothelin (ET-1), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and augmented vascular sensitivity to angiotensin II as well as decreased formation of vasodilators such as nitric oxide and prostacyclin. These alterations in vascular function lead to hypertension with multi-organ dysfunction, especially in cases of early onset preeclampsia. Therefore, identifying the connection between placental ischemia and maternal cardiovascular abnormalities is an important area of investigation.
Changes In Speech Production In An Early Deafened Adult With A Cochlear Implant

Background and Aims: The current study is a first investigation reporting the speech production characteristics of an early deafened adult cochlear implant user after a course of speech–language treatment.Methods and Procedures: The participant is culturally deaf and received the cochlear implant when she was 43 years old. A 24‐week ABCABC single‐subject treatment programme was conducted addressing articulation, the oral production of printed words, and voice production, with two 4‐week segments for each area.Outcomes and Results: Treatment‐specific progress, revealed by untrained stimuli, was made in areas of articulation and oral production of printed words, but not voice production. Formal measures also confirmed the patient's progress.Conclusions: These results were discussed in relation to how long‐term reduction of general auditory input and under‐use of the speech production mechanisms can be remediated by technological and behavioural treatment.
Long-lived crowded litter mice have an age-dependent increase in protein synthesis to DNA synthesis ratio and mTORC1-substrate phosphorylation

Increasing mouse litter size [crowded litter (CL)] presumably imposes a transient nutrient stress during suckling and extends lifespan through unknown mechanisms. Chronic calorically restricted and rapamycin-treated mice have decreased DNA synthesis and mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling but maintained protein synthesis, suggesting maintenance of existing cellular structures. We hypothesized that CL would exhibit similar synthetic and signaling responses to other long-lived models and, by comparing synthesis of new protein to new DNA, that insight may be gained into the potential preservation of existing cellular structures in the CL model. Protein and DNA synthesis was assessed in gastroc complex, heart, and liver of 4- and 7-mo CL mice. We also examined mTORC1 signaling in 3- and 7-mo aged animals. Compared with controls, 4-mo CL had greater DNA synthesis in gastroc complex with no differences in protein synthesis or mTORC1 substrate phosphorylation across tissues. Seven-month CL had less DNA synthesis than controls in heart and greater protein synthesis and mTORC1 substrate phosphorylation across tissues. The increased new protein-to-new DNA synthesis ratio suggests that new proteins are synthesized more so in existing cells at 7 mo, differing from 4 mo, in CL vs. controls. We propose that, in CL, protein synthesis shifts from being directed toward new cells (4 mo) to maintenance of existing cellular structures (7 mo), independently of decreased mTORC1.
Cassini plasma spectrometer thermal ion measurements in Saturn's inner magnetosphere

represented by two anisotropic Maxwellian distributed species, H + and a water group ion, W + . Saturn’s magnetospheric plasma is shown to subcorotate by 15–30% below rigid corotation within this region, with a minimum in fractional lag between 7 and 9 RS. There is a suggestion of a small radial outflow, but the selection of data for this study precluded the inclusion of interchange injection events. Ion densities are in excellent agreement with the Cassini plasma wave instrument, giving confidence in the forward modeling technique. Plasma moments including density, temperatures, and velocities are presented, along with empirical models for density and azimuthal velocity. Water group temperature anisotropies T?/Tk have values between 3 and 8 near 5.5 RS, becoming less anisotropic as distance increases, but are still not isotropic by 10 RS. The implications of these results for mass loading in the Saturnian magnetosphere are discussed, with the conclusion that an important fraction of the plasma source is located inside of the 5.5 RS boundary of this study.
Spectroscopy of positively charged multiple acceptors

Experimental results from far-infrared photoconductive spectroscopy of positively charged multiple acceptors in germanium, i.e. those with three or four bound holes, will be explained in terms of a theoretical model. The fundamental concept is that of the pseudo-atom, making use of pseudo-electrons with spin quantum number s=32. This allows up to four-fold occupation of the (1s)-like ground state spatial envelope function. Optical pumping and stress experiments for the case of Ge:Be demonstrate the qualitative features of the model. Satisfactory agreement is obtained for the energy levels of the positively charged double acceptors using an effective Rydberg approach. A new physical system which does not exist in isolated atoms has been studied for the first time, for which the binding of a third (or fourth) particle for Z=2 (or 3) becomes possible.
Post-transfusion thrombocytopenic purpura: a case report.

Post-transfusion thrombocytopenic purpura (PTTP) is a rare syndrome which was first brought to widespread attention by Shulman et al. Eighteen cases have been reported. The present report describes an additional patient, a multiparous female who developed petechiae 7 days after blood transfusion. The patient's serum contained anti-PIA1 antibodies and her own platelets were PIA1-negative. She was treated with prednisone and recovered spontaneously without exchange transfusion of whole blood or plasma.
A Spatially-Explicit Reconstruction of Historical Fire Occurrence in the Ponderosa Pine Zone of the Colorado Front Range

A key issue in ecosystem management in the western U.S. is the determination of the historic range of variability of fire and its ecological significance prior to major land-use changes associated with Euro-American settlement. The present study relates spatial variation in historical fire occurrence to variation in abiotic and biotic predictors of fire frequency and severity across the elevational range of ponderosa pine in northern Colorado. Logistic regression was used to relate fire frequency to environmental predictors and to derive a probability surface for mapping purposes. These results indicate that less than 20% of the ponderosa pine zone had an historic fire regime (pre-1915) of relatively frequent fires (mean fire intervals, MFI, <30 years). More than 80% is reconstructed to have had a lower frequency (MFI ‡ 30 years), more variable severity fire regime. High fire frequency is clearly associated with low elevations. Lower and more variable fire frequencies, associated with high and moderate severities, occur across a broad range of elevation and are related to variations in other environmental variables. Only a small part of the ponderosa pine zone fits the widespread view that the historic fire regime was characterized mainly by frequent, low-severity that maintained open conditions. Management attempts to restore historic forest structures and/or fire conditions must recognize that infrequent severe fires were an important component of the historic fire regime in this cover type in northern Colorado.
Polymorphism of the Pa gene.

PROBLEM: This study was undertaken to identify the number of alleles of the Pa gene at the DNA level and to correlate the presence of the different alleles with the ability of a strain to elicit an anti-Pa antibody response when mated with a WF female. The Pa gene is present in both Pa + and Pa − strains of rats, but it has unique restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) in the two types of strains: 1.7 kb in Pa− and 1.8 kb in Pa + Xbal digests using a probe derived from the Pa gene. RESULTS: Examination of DNA from a variety of strains using different enzymes showed that there were characteristic RFLP patterns for Pa+ and Pa−strains. Strains of the b haplotype, however, had an intermediate RFLP pattern, and all of these strains had a relatively low level of reactivity with anti-Pa antibody. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, there are three alleles of the Pa gene based on their level of expression: Paa, high; Pab, low; and Pa−, none.
Video views and reviews: neurulation and the fashioning of the vertebrate central nervous system.

The central nervous system (CNS) is the first adult organ system to appear during vertebrate development, and the process of its emergence is commonly called neurulation. Such biological “urgency” is perhaps not surprising given the structural and functional complexity of the CNS and the importance of neural function to adaptive behavior and individual survival. Soon after an egg is fertilized, it is subdivided into many cells, and those cells are rearranged in a process called gastrulation, which begins the formation of the CNS. In fact, neurulation seems to begin before gastrulation is completed, and the two processes appear seamlessly joined, suggesting that many of the cells and underlying mechanisms are involved in both processes. Thus, students wishing to understand neurulation should begin their study with a review of gastrulation and its mechanisms using one of several text books (e.g., Gilbert, 2003) or an excellent monograph (Stern, 2004). They might also find useful a recent review of videos and published papers dealing with the subject (Watters, 2005).
Transient expression of the ectodomain of matrix protein 2 (M2e) of avian influenza A virus in plants

We have previously reported an expression system based on the capsid protein gene (CP) of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) placed under transcriptional control of a potato virus X (PVX)-based vector. PVX-expressed CMV CP formed virus-like particles, which served as carriers for heterologous antigens of the Newcastle disease virus (NDV). In this work, we applied our expression tool toward the development of plant-derived vaccine candidate against avian influenza A virus. Twenty-three amino acid-long extracellular domain of the viral M2 protein (M2e) was engineered into the internal motif 5 of CMV CP and the recombinant gene then was transiently expressed in plants through a PVX vector. Chimeric CMV capsids reacted with specific antibodies produced to synthetic M2e epitope of the H5N1 strain of the virus. In addition, CMV CP-M2e protein was expressed to high levels in Escherichia coli bacterial cells and was recognized by antibodies to both CMV and M2e. This initial study demonstrates the feasibility of using plant virus-based vectors for expression of antigenic epitopes of H5N1 avian influenza in plants.
A mechanistic explanation for selectivity in the conversion of methanol to 2,2,3-trimethylbutane (triptane): Moderate acidity allows kinetic control to operate

Methanol is converted to hydrocarbons by reaction with ZnI2 or InI3 at 200 °C, with surprisingly high selectivity (yields on the order of 20%) to a single highly branched alkane, 2,2,3-trimethylbutane (triptane). Mechanistic studies demonstrate that the previously proposed mechanism, which proceeds via a carbocation-based route that involves methylation of olefins and hydride transfer to carbocations, can account quantitatively for the selectivity. Differences in product distribution between the Zn- and In-based systems represent quantitative, not qualitative, differences in behavior, and can be attributed to the slightly higher effective acidity of the latter.
Immunodiagnosis of Ehrlichia canis Infection with Recombinant Proteins

Ehrlichia canis causes a potentially fatal rickettsial disease of dogs that requires rapid and accurate diagnosis in order to initiate appropriate therapy leading to a favorable prognosis. We recently reported the cloning of two immunoreactive E. canis proteins, P28 and P140, that were applicable for serodiagnosis of the disease. In the present study we cloned a new immunoreactive E. canis surface protein gene of 1,170 bp, which encodes a protein with a predicted molecular mass of 42.6 kDa (P43). The P43 gene was not detected in E. chaffeensis DNA by Southern blot, and antisera against recombinant P43 (rP43) did not react with E. chaffeensis as detected by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assay. Forty-two dogs exhibiting signs and/or hematologic abnormalities associated with canine ehrlichiosis were tested by IFA assay and by recombinant Western immunoblot. Among the 22 samples that were IFA positive for E. canis, 100% reacted with rP43, 96% reacted with rP28, and 96% reacted with rP140. The specificity of the recombinant proteins compared to the IFAs was 96% for rP28, 88% for P43 and 63% for P140. The results of this study demonstrate that the rP43 and rP28 are sensitive and reliable serodiagnostic antigens for E. canis infections.
A Quick-Freeze Method for Making Smear Slides Permanent

Many types of smear slides can be made permanent rapidly and effectively by substituting for the usual dehydration series a single-step process of freezing the slide on a block of dry ice, placing it immediately in 95% or absolute alcohol, and then mounting it. Advantages of the technic are its speed, the ease of separation of cover slip from slide with a minimum loss of cells, and the superiority of the resulting permanent slides.
Simplifying Federal Taxes: The Advantages of Consumption-Based Taxation

This year’s $1.35 trillion tax cut reduced income tax rates and modestly liberalized the tax rules for retirement saving plans. However, the new tax law did not slow the progression of the tax code toward increasing levels of complexity. In fact, the law made 441 changes to the tax code and created a complicated series of phase-in periods for tax changes. Meanwhile, the congressional Joint Committee on Taxation released a 1,300-page study cataloging the excessive complexity of federal taxes but providing only limited proposals for reform.Minor simplification reforms will not be enough. The tax system is caught in a spiral of continual change and nonstop growth in rules. Since the mid-1980s there have been 7,000 federal tax code changes and a 74 percent increase in the number of pages of tax rules. Complying with federal tax requirements wastes 6 billion hours each year as families and businesses fill out tax forms, keep records, and learn tax rules.The key factor that causes rising income tax complexity is that the tax base is inherently difficult to measure. The Haig-Simons measure of income favored by many academic theorists is economically damaging and too impractical to use in the real world. As a result, policymakers have fallen back on ad hoc and inconsistent rules to define the income tax base. That intensifies complexity and creates instability as policymakers gyrate between different definitions of the tax base. In addition, the lack of a consistently defined tax base increases the use of the tax code for special-interest tax breaks, thus further adding to the system’s complexity.The complexity and inefficiency of the individual and corporate income taxes have led to great interest in replacing them with a consumption-based tax. The leading consumption-based tax proposals, including the national retail sales tax and the Hall-Rabushka flat tax, could dramatically simplify federal taxation. Those tax systems would eliminate many of the most complex aspects of federal taxation, including depreciation accounting and capital gains taxation.Imposing the largest federal tax on income was a historic mistake: no simple, efficient, and stable measure of income has been found in nine decades of the income tax. It is time to recognize this mistake and replace the income tax with a consumption-based alternative.
The Emergent Reversal of Coagulopathies Encountered in Neurosurgery and Neurology: A Technical Note

It is imperative for neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neurointensivists to know how to stop life-threatening hemorrhage in both surgical and non-surgical patients. However, knowing how to medically correct a coagulopathy has become increasingly challenging as more contemporary and sophisticated anticoagulation agents are developed and prescribed. In a time-sensitive and life-threatening situation, where there is little margin for error, the neurosurgeon may not have ready access to information about the drug or condition that caused the coagulopathy or the information on how to treat it. This thorough review of the literature provides a comprehensive overview of the medications and conditions that can lead to persistent and/or life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage.
Thermodynamics of dilute solutions of neptunium in liquid magnesium

The activity coefficient of neptunium in liquid magnesium, at 650° and 700°C, was obtained from measurements of the distribution of neptunium between a 50 mole pct MgCl2-30 mole pct NaCl-20 mole pet KC1 molten-salt solution and liquid Cd-Mg alloys. For dilute solutions of neptunium in liquid magnesium (0.04 at. pct Np) the activity coefficient of neptunium was 23.3 at 650°C and 16.0 at 700°C. The solubility of neptunium in liquid magnesium is estimated to be 4.4 at. pct (31 wt pct) at 650°C. These data are used to estimate the activity coefficient of neptunium in liquid zinc and copper.
Determination of arsenite and arsenate by differential pulse polarography

Arsenate was determined by differential pulse polarography in acidic solutions in the presence of polyhydroxy compounds. The best medium was found to be 2.0 M aqueous HClO4 containing 4.5 g d-mannitol in 50 ml solution. The peak heights measured at −0.55 V gave linear calibration curves in the concentration range 20 μg/l to 160 mg/l As. Arsenite was similarly determined with mannitol at −0.34 V or without mannitol at −0.42 V. When arsenite and arsenate were present in solution, the simultaneous determination of these compounds in the presence of mannitol was generally not possible because the peak heights at −0.34 V and −0.55 V were influenced by arsenite as well as arsenate. In these cases arsenite was determined at −0.42V in the absence of mannitol. After oxidation of arsenite to arsenate by chlorine water and addition of mannitol, total inorganic arsenic was determined as arsenate at −0.55 V. The arsenate concentration in the sample was found as the difference between the concentrations of total inorganic arsenic and arsenite. The detection limit for arsenite and arsenate was found to be approximately 10 μg/l As. This method was successfully used to determine arsenite and arsenate in a synthetic river water sample and some arsenic-containing drinking water samples.
On Parallel Streams through the Mouse Dorsal Lateral Geniculate Nucleus.

The mouse visual system is an emerging model for the study of cortical and thalamic circuit function. To maximize the usefulness of this model system, it is important to analyze the similarities and differences between the organization of all levels of the murid visual system with other, better studied systems (e.g., non-human primates and the domestic cat). While the understanding of mouse retina and cortex has expanded rapidly, less is known about mouse dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN). Here, we study whether parallel processing streams exist in mouse dLGN. We use a battery of stimuli that have been previously shown to successfully distinguish parallel streams in other species: electrical stimulation of the optic chiasm, contrast-reversing stationary gratings at varying spatial phase, drifting sinusoidal gratings, dense noise for receptive field reconstruction, and frozen contrast-modulating noise. As in the optic nerves of domestic cats and non-human primates, we find evidence for multiple conduction velocity groups after optic chiasm stimulation. As in so-called ‘visual mammals’, we find a subpopulation of mouse dLGN cells showing non-linear spatial summation. However, differences in stimulus selectivity and sensitivity do not provide sufficient basis for identification of clearly distinct classes of relay cells. Nevertheless, consistent with presumptively homologous status of dLGNs of all mammals, there are substantial similarities between response properties of mouse dLGN neurons and those of cats and primates.
Intimate Partner Violence Among Men With Disabilities: The Role of Health Care Providers:

Men with disabilities experience higher rates of interpersonal violence (IPV) than either women or men without disabilities, yet research exploring this problem is limited. This retrospective descriptive study examines the clinical files of male survivors of IPV with disabilities who received services from the Secret Garden, a disability-specific nonresidential IPV program located in New York City. These data inform the role health care providers may fill in helping address IPV against men with disabilities. Abuse history, medical and mental health service utilization, and the channels through which men accessed IPV assistance were areas of focus for analysis. Data were analyzed descriptively and outcomes reported as frequencies and percentages. Results indicate that more than half of study participants were abused by an intimate partner (66.2%) and nearly two-thirds described an act of physical abuse as the most serious type of abuse perpetrated (71.7%). Nearly half (40.8%) had previous contact with medical providers due to abuse. The high prevalence of physical abuse in this sample has critical physical and mental health implications, and could further exacerbate already precarious health statuses. While nearly half reported previous contact with health care providers due to abuse, only 15.8% were referred for IPV assistance by a health care provider, indicating a missed opportunity to identify signs of abuse and direct survivors to additional resources.
Identification of Senescent Cells in the Bone Microenvironment

Cellular senescence is a fundamental mechanism by which cells remain metabolically active yet cease dividing and undergo distinct phenotypic alterations, including upregulation of p16Ink4a , profound secretome changes, telomere shortening, and decondensation of pericentromeric satellite DNA. Because senescent cells accumulate in multiple tissues with aging, these cells and the dysfunctional factors they secrete, termed the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), are increasingly recognized as promising therapeutic targets to prevent age-related degenerative pathologies, including osteoporosis. However, the cell type(s) within the bone microenvironment that undergoes senescence with aging in vivo has remained poorly understood, largely because previous studies have focused on senescence in cultured cells. Thus in young (age 6 months) and old (age 24 months) mice, we measured senescence and SASP markers in vivo in highly enriched cell populations, all rapidly isolated from bone/marrow without in vitro culture. In both females and males, p16Ink4a expression by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (rt-qPCR) was significantly higher with aging in B cells, T cells, myeloid cells, osteoblast progenitors, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. Further, in vivo quantification of senescence-associated distension of satellites (SADS), ie, large-scale unraveling of pericentromeric satellite DNA, revealed significantly more senescent osteocytes in old compared with young bone cortices (11% versus 2%, p < 0.001). In addition, primary osteocytes from old mice had sixfold more (p < 0.001) telomere dysfunction-induced foci (TIFs) than osteocytes from young mice. Corresponding with the age-associated accumulation of senescent osteocytes was significantly higher expression of multiple SASP markers in osteocytes from old versus young mice, several of which also showed dramatic age-associated upregulation in myeloid cells. These data show that with aging, a subset of cells of various lineages within the bone microenvironment become senescent, although senescent myeloid cells and senescent osteocytes predominantly develop the SASP. Given the critical roles of osteocytes in orchestrating bone remodeling, our findings suggest that senescent osteocytes and their SASP may contribute to age-related bone loss. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Poor Prognosis of Patients Treated for Periprosthetic Joint Infection

The study by Gomez et al., "The Fate of Spacers in the Treatment of Periprosthetic Joint Infection," evaluates the clinical course and success rate of treatment of periprosthetic joint infection with two-stage revision with spacer placement in the interim period. The current review critically analyzes the findings of this study and examines how these findings may influence patient care in the field of hip and knee replacement. Gomez et al. report sobering results of two-stage revision with spacer placement for periprosthetic joint infection. Nearly 20% of patients in their study who had a spacer placed never went on to get a new prosthesis and nearly 20% of those who did get a new prosthesis ultimately failed treatment. The authors reported a 7.5% mortality rate in the interstage period after resection arthroplasty. This study provides valuable information for counseling patients about the outcomes of treatment using spacers for infection after total joint arthroplasty. The results of this study also highlight the need for future investigation into better treatments for periprosthetic joint infections.
The species of the Hypostomus cochliodon group (Siluriformes: Loricariidae)

The Hypostomus cochliodon group consists of eight species that were formerly recognized as Cochliodon Kner: H. cochliodon Kner, H. hondae (Regan), H. levis (Pearson), H. oculeus (Fowler), H. plecostomoides (Eigenmann), H. pospisili (Schultz; a synonym of H. hondae ), H. pyrineusi (Miranda-Ribeiro), and H. taphorni (Lilyestrom) and four additional species described herein: H. ericius , H. hemicochliodon, H. pagei, and H. sculpodon . The species occur in four phenetic groups: the intermediate group of H. hemicochliodon and H. sculpodon that appear to be transitional species between other Hypostomus and the H. cochliodon group in terms of diet and tooth shape, a monotypic group containing H. cochliodon , a group characterized by an odontodeless opercle that contains H. ericius, H. levis, H. oculeus , H. pyrineusi , and H. taphorni, and an undifferentiated northern group that contains H. hondae, H. pagei, and H. plecostomoides .