cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anandamide Attenuates Th-17 Cell-Mediated Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity Response by Triggering IL-10 Production and Consequent microRNA Induction

Endogenous cannabinoids [endocannabinoids] are lipid signaling molecules that have been shown to modulate immune functions. However, their role in the regulation of Th17 cells has not been studied previously. In the current study, we used methylated Bovine Serum Albumin [mBSA]-induced delayed type hypersensitivity [DTH] response in C57BL/6 mice, mediated by Th17 cells, as a model to test the anti-inflammatory effects of endocannabinoids. Administration of anandamide [AEA], a member of the endocannabinoid family, into mice resulted in significant mitigation of mBSA-induced inflammation, including foot pad swelling, cell infiltration, and cell proliferation in the draining lymph nodes [LN]. AEA treatment significantly reduced IL-17 and IFN-γ production, as well as decreased RORγt expression while causing significant induction of IL-10 in the draining LNs. IL-10 was critical for the AEA-induced mitigation of DTH response inasmuch as neutralization of IL-10 reversed the effects of AEA. We next analyzed miRNA from the LN cells and found that 100 out of 609 miRNA species were differentially regulated in AEA-treated mice when compared to controls. Several of these miRNAs targeted proinflammatory mediators. Interestingly, many of these miRNA were also upregulated upon in vitro treatment of LN cells with IL-10. Together, the current study demonstrates that AEA may suppress Th-17 cell–mediated DTH response by inducing IL-10 which in turn triggers miRNA that target proinflammatory pathways.
Epidermal growth factor induces ornithine decarboxylase in SV40‐immortalized human keratinocytes

The effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the activity of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) was evaluated and partially characterized in SV40-transformed, immortalized cultured human keratinocytes. It was observed that the addition of fresh complete medium to confluent cultures resulted in a 10-fold increase in ODC activity. Characterization of this activity using serum-free medium revealed that the increase in ODC activity was primarily due to the presence of EGF (10 ng/ml). A dose-dependent increase in ODC activity was observed when cultures were treated with EGF. Although near maximal induction occurred with EGF concentrations as low as 2.5–10 ng/ml, maximal induction of ODC (25-fold) occurred with an EGF concentration of 50 ng/ml. The peak time for ODC induction was 10 hours following the addition of EGF to keratinocyte cultures. The induction of ODC by EGF was inhibited by pretreatment of cultures with either cycloheximide or actinomycin D, suggesting that both protein synthesis and gene transcription are important in the FGF induction of ODC. EGF significantly increased the steady stale levels of ODC mRNA with a peak at 4 hours, preceding the peak in observed enzyme activity as expected. Pretreatment of cultures with retinoic acid (10−5–10−7M) significantly inhibited the induction of ODC by EGF. Retinoic acid decreased the steady-state levels of ODC mRNA. These data demonstrate that ODC is an enzyme that is induced by EGF in human keratinocytes; this induction probably involves both gene transcription and protein synthesis. Retinoic acid partially prevents the EGF induction of ornithine decarboxylase activity through a presently undefined mechanism(s), but appears to have effects that result in decreased ODC mRNA levels.
The Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Sertraline Reduces Excessive Alcohol Consumption in Nonhuman Primates: Effect of Stress

Many monkeys that are reared without adult influence, with only peers, voluntarily consume alcohol in amounts producing intoxication on a relatively regular basis. Using a cross-over design, eight adolescent, peer-reared rhesus monkeys were allowed unfettered access to an 8.4% ethanol solution and treated with 20 mg/kg/24 h of sertraline during three phases: home-cage, social separation, and reunion with cage-mates. Although there was no immediate effect, sertraline reduced alcohol consumption beginning the second week of home-cage treatment, but only in subjects that consumed large amounts of alcohol. Initially, the social separation stress caused the sertaline-treated subjects' alcohol consumption rates to return to baseline levels, but when the stress was repeated, alcohol consumption fell below baseline and placebo levels. Sertraline treatment was ineffective in reducing consumption during the stressful period of home-cage reunion, a period characterized by high levels of aggressive behavior. Behaviorally, sertraline reduced aggression and anxiety-like self-directed behaviors. Our findings provide evidence that sertraline may be an effective pharmacological treatment for excessive alcohol consumption and aggression. On the other hand, stress during treatment may reduce sertraline's effectiveness as a treatment for excessive alcohol consumption.
Bed‐Sediment transportation in open channels

The laws governing sediment-transportation are receiving more and more attention from hydraulic laboratories and hydraulic engineers, as a knowledge of them is fundamental to both river-models and river-construction work. These require two distinct applications of the same principles. In river-models a sediment must be used which will respond to the flow in such a manner that geometrical similarity is maintained, whereas in river-work the cross-sections must be designed to suit the sediment from which they are composed. In both cases the same laws are applicable.
Structural and syntactic pattern recognition (SSPR 2008) and statistical techniques in pattern recognition (SPR 2008)

The joint workshops aim at promoting interaction and collaboration not only among researchers working directly in areas covered by TC1 and TC2 but also among those in other fields who use statistical, structural or syntactic techniques extensively. We welcome mathematicians, statisticians, researchers in machine learning and practitioners alike who, at present, work outside the pattern recognition community.
Genetic and Environmental Influences on Individual Differences in Masculinity, Femininity, and Gender Diagnosticity: Analyzing Data From a Classic Twin Study

Analyzing data from Loehlin and Nichols's (1976) classic twin study, we computed measures of Masculine Instrumentality (M), Feminine Expressiveness (F), and Gender Diagnosticity (GD). Quantitative genetic modeling analyses of within-sex individual differences in M, F, and GD indicated that: (1) Additive genetic factors contribute significantly to individual differences in M, F, and GD. (2) The environmental effects on M, F, and GD tend to be nonshared. (3) The genetic and environmental components of individual differences in M, F, and GD tend not to show gender differences. Finally, (4) the estimated within-sex heritability of GD (.53) is significantly greater than the estimated within-sex heritabilities of either M (.36) or F (.38).
Activation of nicotinic receptors triggers exocytosis from bovine chromaffin cells in the absence of membrane depolarization.

Abstract The traditional function of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels is to induce rapid changes in electrical activity. Channels that are Ca(2+)-permeable, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors at depolarized membrane potentials, can have a broader repertoire of consequences, including changes in synaptic efficacy, developmental plasticity, and excitotoxicity. Neuronal nicotinic receptors for acetylcholine (nAChRs) are usually less Ca(2+)-permeable than N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors but have a significant Ca2+ permeability, which is greater at negative potentials. Here we report that in neuroendocrine cells, activation of nAChRs can trigger exocytosis at hyperpolarized potentials. We used whole-cell patch-clamp recordings to record currents and the capacitance detection technique to monitor exocytosis in isolated bovine chromaffin cells. Stimulation of nAChRs at hyperpolarized potentials (-60 or -90 mV) evokes a large current and a maximal capacitance increase corresponding to the fusion of approximately 200 large dense-core vesicles. The amount of exocytosis is controlled both by the Ca2+ influx through nAChRs and by a contribution from thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ sequestering stores. This is a form of neurotransmitter action in which activation of nAChRs triggers secretion through an additional coupling pathway that coexists with classical voltage-dependent Ca2+ entry.
Ectodermal dysplasia: aggressive treatment of oligodontia versus non-intervention?

Prosthodontists can serve as productive members of the craniofacial team and can help coordinate multidisciplinary treatment of patients with congenital anomalies. Often there are few, if any, evidence-based criteria to assist them in developing “correct” clinical protocols. When syndromes involve hypodontia, oligodontia, or anodontia, coordinating prosthetic treatment through phases of three-dimensional growth and development can be daunting. Early implant intervention with anodontia patients is acceptable in some treatment centers. Correcting previously untreated adolescent oligodontia can be extremely challenging and removal of strategic teeth with immediate implant placement is surely controversial. Understanding the morbidity of grafting in these patients and the questionable long-term survival of overdenture abutment teeth will lend to an active discussion of the advocated aggressive therapeutic approach.
Eimeria tenella, Eimeria necatrix, and Eimeria adenoeides: Peripheral blood leukocyte response of chickens and turkeys to strains adapted to the turkey embryo

Abstract The peripheral blood leukocyte responses of chickens and turkeys inoculated with one of three strains of a chicken Eimeria species adapted to the turkey embryo with their respective parent lines, or with E. adenoeides of the turkey were studied. The adapted lines tended to cause hematological changes in chickens and turkeys similar to those caused by E. adenoeides . These parasites caused the most significant increases in large mononuclear white blood cells = (monocytes) in both chickens and turkeys. These results provide further evidence for a monocyte/macrophage effector mechanism in the rejection of heterologous species of Eimeria from a nonspecific host. The results also agree with previous studies that show that increases in mononuclear white blood cells during parent E. tenella and E. necatrix infections in chickens occur during the periods of greatest tissue damage (3–4 days after inoculation). The generally unaffected lymphocyte numbers and increases in mononuclear white blood cells during infections with the adapted lines probably explain the reduced pathogenicity and the lack of immunogenicity seen previously in chickens inoculated with these three lines. Possibly, monocytes/macrophages play a role in the host specificity of the parasites.
Feeling unreal: a depersonalization disorder update of 117 cases.

Background Despite a surge of interest and literature on depersonalization disorder in recent years, a large series of individuals with the disorder has not been described to date. In this report, we systematically elucidate the phenomenology, precipitants, antecedents, comorbidity, and treatment history in such a series. Method 117 adult subjects with depersonalization disorder (DSM-III-R/DSM-IV criteria) consecutively recruited to a number of depersonalization disorder research studies were administered structured and semistructured diagnostic interviews and the Dissociative Experiences Scale. Data were gathered from 1994 to 2000. Results The illness had an approximately 1:1 gender ratio with onset around 16 years of age. The course was typically chronic and often continuous. Illness characteristics such as onset, duration, and course were not associated with symptom severity. Mood, anxiety, and personality disorders were frequently comorbid, but none predicted depersonalization severity. The most common immediate precipitants of the disorder were severe stress, depression, panic, marijuana ingestion, and hallucinogen ingestion, and none of these predicted symptom severity. Negative affects, stress, perceived threatening social interaction, and unfamiliar environments were some of the more common factors leading to symptom exacerbation. Conversely, comforting interpersonal interactions, intense emotional or physical stimulation, and relaxation tended to diminish symptom intensity. There were no significant gender differences in the clinical features of the disorder. In this sample, depersonalization tended to be refractory to various medication and psychotherapy treatments. Conclusion The characteristics of depersonalization disorder found in this sample, the largest described to date, are in good accord with previous literature. The study highlights the need for novel therapeutic approaches to treat depersonalization disorder. Novel medication classes, as well as novel psychotherapeutic techniques that build on the reported symptom fluctuation factors, may prove helpful in the future.
Calibrated probabilities and the epistemology of disagreement

This paper assesses the comparative reliability of two belief-revision rules relevant to the epistemology of disagreement, the Equal Weight and Stay the Course rules. I use two measures of reliability for probabilistic belief-revision rules, calibration and Brier Scoring, to give a precise account of epistemic peerhood and epistemic reliability. On the calibration measure of reliability, epistemic peerhood is easy to come by, and employing the Equal Weight rule generally renders you less reliable than Staying the Course. On the Brier-Score measure of reliability, epistemic peerhood is much more difficult to come by, but employing the Equal Weight rule always renders you more reliable than Staying the Course. I conclude with some normative lessons we can draw from these formal results.
Differential responses to defoliation frequency in little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) in tallgrass prairie: implications for herbivory tolerance and avoidance

Plant responses to herbivory are complex. In grasses, relative growth rate (RGR), seed, and vegetative reproduction, resource allocation, and architecture vary differentially and often nonlinearly with grazing intensity. High grazing tolerance may be achieved through compensatory photosynthesis and leaf growth, or through demographic mechanisms such as activation of a belowground dormant bud bank. This study assessed the relationship between grazing frequency and responses of Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) in a tallgrass prairie, and examined the roles of tiller growth, reproduction, and bud (meristem) populations in its persistence under grazing. Genets were subjected to varying simulated grazing frequencies for a period of 2 years. Strong differential responses were observed among plant traits. RGR, biomass, and flowering showed strong nonlinear reductions in response to increasing clipping frequency, with no evidence of threshold effects. However, meristem density was unaffected, and plants maintained a large bud bank across all clipping treatments. Tiller natality decreased initially, but increased with >4 clippings, suggesting that declines in tiller RGR are partially offset by increasing tiller natality, and that variation in genet size is driven more by demography than by variation in individual tiller growth. Increased grazing frequency also resulted in differential activation of buds at different positions (emerging within vs. outside the subtending leaf sheath), explaining the shift to a more prostrate growth form observed in many caespitose grasses under persistent grazing. Thus, although this grass species lacks the capacity for compensatory foliage re-growth, the maintenance of a large dormant bud bank and the differential activation of buds in different positions contribute to its grazing tolerance and avoidance, respectively, and its long-term persistence in grazed grasslands.
A fundamental theory for slow crack growth in polyethylene

Abstract The following theoretical equation has been obtained for measuring the rate of slow crack growth in polyethylene in terms of the crack opening displacement rate δ: δ = α y (1−y 2 ) 2 ηd o E 2 α 2 c K 4 Here δy is the yield point, K is the stress intensity, η is the intrinsic viscosity of the fibrils in the craze, E is Young's modulus, δc is the stress to produce a craze, d0 is the primordial thickness from which the craze originates and γ is Poisson's ratio. The theoretical equation agrees with the experimental observation: δCK4e-−Q/RT Thus, for the first time, the dependence of δ on stress and notch depth have been derived in fundamental terms and the physical parameters that constitute the factor C have been identified. The intrinsic viscosity η can be calculated from the theory using specific experimental data. For example at 42°C, the fibrils in a craze in a homopolymer have an intrinsic viscosity of 3 × 1011 Pas. This is much larger than the melt viscosity of the amorphous region, which is about 105–106 Pas. Thus, the resistance of polyethylene to slow crack growth is governed by the crystals and not by the amorphous region.
Four Systems for Emotion Activation: Cognitive and Noncognitive Processes

The significant role of emotions in evolution and adaptation suggests that there must be more than 1 mechanism for generating them. Nevertheless, much of current emotion theory focuses on cognitive processes (appraisal, attribution, and construal) as the sole, or primary, means of eliciting emotions. As an alternative to this position, the present model describes 4 types of emotion-activating systems, 3 of which involve noncognitive information processing. From an evolutionary-developmental perspective, the systems maybe viewed as a loosely organized hierarchical arrangement, with neural systems, the simplest and most rapid, at the base and cognitive systems, the most complex and versatile, at the top. The emotion-activating systems operate under a number of constraints, including genetically influenced individual differences. The hierarchical organization of the systems for generating emotions provides an adaptive advantage.
Solubility and in vitro transdermal permeation of nifedipine

Abstract The solubilities of a hydrophobic drug, nifedipine, in a diverse panel of solvent and cosolvent systems were determined experimentally at room temperature. The observed solubilities were examined for deviations from regular solution solubilities as calculated by the Hildebrand and Scott Equation. When presented graphically, the observed solubilities showed a pattern of positive deviations from ideality. The influence of solubilities in a cosolvent system on nifedipine permeation through hairless mouse skin was evaluated in the four binary cosolvent systems. The solubility of nifedipine was measured in four dimethyl isosorbide (DMI)-based cosolvent mixtures and the theoretical skin:vehicle partition coefficients were calculated. The amounts of nifedipine permeated at 24 h post application from the representative donor systems administered as suspensions were measured across hairless mouse skin in vitro. For the systems studied, it was concluded that: (1) nifedipine solubility was enhanced in moderately polar cosolvent systems; (2) there was no correlation between the steady-state flux and drug solubility; and (3) nifedipine permeation was higher from systems that contain solvents known to readily pass the skin.
Computational aspects of one-dimensional shape memory alloy modeling with phase diagrams*

Abstract A constitutive model for martensitic solid—solid phase transformations is developed. Specifically, we investigate and model the one-dimensional behavior of shape memory alloys, with the purpose of capturing both the shape memory effect and the pseudoelasticity effect which are uniquely exhibited by this class of alloys. The model is of the popular phase space type and an appropriate numerical approximation of the constitution is developed which robustly handles arbitrary one-dimensional thermomechanical loading. Heuristics are provided for treating two types of non-uniqueness issues that have been identified to arise with such models. Representative simulations demonstrate the ability of the formulation to capture the essential macroscopic behavior of shape memory alloys. In particular, examples are shown solving truss bar and beam finite element problems.
Determination of the effectiveness of UV radiation as a means of disinfection of metalworking fluids

Microbial contamination of metalworking fluids (MWFs) causes biofouling and degradation and is also associated with several health hazards. Development of an effective control method is therefore essential to reduce microbial loading in MWFs. The present study investigated the efficacy and rapidity of UV radiation as a means of disinfection of MWFs under laboratory conditions to determine parameters that could be used to design an in-line UV reactor for enclosed machines. High and low concentrations (104–107 CFU/mL) of three indicator bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescens, P. oleovorans subsp. lubricantis and Mycobacterium chelonae, were evaluated both as pure cultures and in combinations. The target organisms were irradiated with a high intensity (192 μW/cm2, 55 W) UV lamp for different exposure time under both static and mixed conditions. For these Pseudomonas species with high concentrations of cells under static conditions, only a 56 % reduction was observed within 10 min of exposure, whereas under mixed condition, a 99 % reduction was achieved within 2 min of exposure. In contrast only 74 % reduction was observed for M. chelonae. However, with low concentrations of cells under mixed conditions, a 99.99 % and 82 % reduction in viable count was observed for the Pseudomonas sp. and M. chelonae, respectively. Similar results were observed for mixed culture combinations. Based on these observations high intensity UV in combination with mixing could be successfully used as a means of disinfection of MWFs within a short exposure time and the parameters obtained from the study could be implemented to design a plug flow UV reactor.
The application of age response functions to the optimization of treatment schedules.

A computer-based technique is described for calculating the survival of normal and malignant cell populations during and after chemotherapy or radiotherapy. For exponentially growing cells, cell sensitivity as a function of the position in the cell cycle (age response function) is considered and survival calculated by means of a method discussed previously (Hahn, 1966; Hahn & Kallman, 1967). It is shown how the age response function is obtained from experimental data. Two examples of the application of the computer-based technique are given. As one example, the technique is used to ‘optimize’ the scheduling of fractionated irradiations to differentially kill one cell line over another using as a basis for optimization differences in their age response functions. the second example illustrates the use of the technique to determine the relative advantage of different chemotherapy protocols. Here the survival of cycling and noncycling bone marrow stem cells, and resistant and sensitive malignant cells, is calculated. It is suggested that the technique may have direct relevance for the chemotherapy of some leukemias.
Hydrodynamic particle removal from surfaces

A critical particle Reynolds number approach for analyzing the hydrodynamic removal of micron-scale particles from surfaces was presented and tested experimentally. A model system involving polydisperse polystyrene spheres adhering to a quartz surface and subject to laminar channel flow of an aqueous solution was considered. An experimentally validated adhesion model was used to predict an adhesion force distribution for the adherent spheres based on the size of the spheres and the morphological characteristics of the spheres and quartz. This force distribution was combined with the critical particle Reynolds number approach to predict particle removal and the predictions were compared to experimental observations. Results indicate that when variations in particle size, adhesion force, and point around which rolling occurs are taken into account, particle removal from surfaces can be described quantitatively.
Is Australia on a sustainability path? Interpreting the clues

Genuine savings is a conceptually valid one-sided indicator as to whether Australia is on a weak sustainability path (negative GS would warn that current welfare is unsustainable). The World Bank's adjusted net savings (ANS) data summarise the available evidence, and by this indicator Australia is muddling along, at best. ANS misses some important pieces of the picture – net depletion of water, soil and biodiversity, and most kinds of pollution damage – and thus overstates Australia's genuine savings performance. Weak sustainability can be promoted by getting the prices right, and piecemeal efforts are underway via regulatory approaches and resource/environmental markets of various kinds. Nevertheless, particular resource problems – habitat conservation, biodiversity, climate change and dryland salinity – are likely to also require strong sustainability approaches. A sustainable future involves pushing weak sustainability as far as the body politic permits, invoking precautionary instruments for specific resource crises, and nurturing policy processes that encourage the consensus-building that will be necessary to get it done.
The bus stop effect revisited

We revisit the question as to how cross sections for direct reactions, caused by a projectile of positive charge interacting with an atom at asymptotic velocities, heal to the first Born approximation. Finite Hilbert basis calculations indicate that for protons the cross section approaches the Born result from above. We can confirm this result for shorter range Yukawa potentials by using Response Theory but not for the Coulombic problem of direct interest.
Scaling of turbulent spike amplitudes in the complex Ginzburg-Landau equation

Abstract We study numerically the scaling of spikes in the complex Ginzburg-Landau (CGL) equation, A = RA + (1+iv)▵A - (1+iμ)∣A∣ 2q A , in one dimension with periodic boundary conditions on [0, 1]. Rigorous upper bounds on spatial averages and pointwise norms derived by Bartuccelli et al.[Physica D 44 (1990) 421] suggest that when Dq D is the spatial dimension, only “weak” turbulence can occur, but when Dq ⩾2 “strong” turbulence characterized by large fluctuations may occur. We study the one-dimensional case with increasing nonlinearity. We find that the spikes produced by the CGL do not generally attain the scaling suggested by the upper bound by Bartuccelli et al. Rather, if R is varied with v and μ fixed, their amplitudes scale robustly as R 1 2q . If R is fixed, effectively fixing the size of the system, we find that the peaks of the spikes increases at a much lesser rate than the bounds allow as we move out into the μ, υ plane. The regularity of this scaling suggests that the spike saturation mechanism may be amenable to analysis.
Fatality following right atrial perforation by a screw-in pacemaker electrode

This paper describes the first reported fatality from right atrial perforation complicating the insertion of a screw-in right atrial pacemaker electrode. The patient was an 84-year-old woman with the sick sinus syndrome who also had hepatic cirrhosis.
Efferent sympathetic and vagal innervation of the canine right ventricle.

BACKGROUNDThe functional pathways of efferent sympathetic and vagal innervation to the right ventricle (RV) might be important in a variety of disease states that involve the RV wall. The purpose of this study was to investigate those pathways.METHODS AND RESULTSWe determined the effects of phenol and endocardial radiofrequency ablation applied to the RV anterolateral wall and outflow tract on effective refractory period (EPR) shortening during bilateral ansae subclaviae stimulation and ERP lengthening during bilateral vagal stimulation. We found that efferent sympathetic axons to the RV are located in the superficial subepicardium and that lateral sites receive sympathetic innervation predominantly from the lateral margin of the RV near the AV groove. Medial sites close to the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) receive sympathetic innervation from both the right lateral atrioventricular (AV) groove and regions near the LAD. At the RV outflow tract, some sympathetic fibers are located intramur...
Measuring critical components of digital literacy and their relationships with learning

Abstract The growing prominence of the Internet, and other digital environments, as educational tools requires research regarding learners' digital literacy. We argue that two critical aspects of digital literacy are the ability to effectively plan and monitor the efficacy of strategies used to search and manage the wealth of information available online, and the knowledge to appropriately vet and integrate those information sources. Therefore, digital literacy requires effective self-regulated learning (SRL) skills, and availing epistemic cognition (EC). Although numerous researchers and scholars have examined the role of SRL in online learning (e.g., Efklides, 2011 ; Lee and Tsai, 2010 , Williams and Hellman, 2004 , Winters et al., 2008 ), there is a need for additional empirical research on how SRL and EC interact, and relate to learning in digital environments. In this study, we used a powerful, but little-used data collection methodology, think-aloud protocol (TAP) analysis, to investigate the relations among SRL, EC, and learning gains with 20 college students who studied vitamins on the Internet. We also contributed to the literature by exploring alternative techniques for preparing, analyzing, and representing these data, accounting for the strengths and challenges of TAPs. We found that, on average, participants did increase their understanding as a result of learning with the Internet, and that a data-driven approach to understanding relations among SRL, EC, and learning yielded the most powerful representation of these phenomena. Our study has implications for future research on digital literacy using TAPs, as well as the relative contribution of SRL and EC, as aspects of digital literacy, to online learning.
Metal complex induced changes in DNA conformation and template activity

Abstract It is now well-known that the interaction of metal ions with DNA leads to dramatic changes in nucleic acid structure [1] and recently it has become apparent that even the handedness of the double helix [2] and its compaction into aggregates [3, 4] is affected by such interaction. As recently demonstrated, DNA can exist in left-handed (Z) as well as the familiar right-handed conformations. The Z-structure is produced by DNA molecules containing alternating guanine (G) and cytosine (C) bases [poly(dGdC)· poly(dGdC) [5]. Compacted states have been known for some time to exist in vivo, and it is believed that these as well as left-handed conformations may be involved in the control of genetic information transfer. It is therefore important to understand how transitions between the DNA conformers take place, and whether such transitions affect the biological activities of DNA. We have addressed both of these problems. We have found that [Co(NH3)6]Cl3 brings about reversible transitions in the structure of poly(dGdC)· poly(dGdC) so that the right-handed B-form is first converted to Z-DNA and then to another structure that resembles A-DNA and finally to the highly compacted ψ-DNA [6]. The metal complex is thus able to induce three transitions among four conformers of DNA. By manipulating the concetrations of [Co(NH3)6]Cl3 and poly(dGdC)·poly(dGdC), as well as other factors such as reaction time and temperature, each of these conformations can be stabilized, and identified by its circular dichroism spectrum; or labilized and converted into another structure. We believed that the mechanism for these interconversions depends on the fact that increasing concentrations of the Co(III) complex stabilize conformations in which the phosphate groups of DNA are closer together. Conformational change in DNA, as demonstrated for the B → Z conversion leads to the biologically important consequence that the ability of the DNA to act as a template for RNA synthesis is affected. Figure 1 illustrates the correlation of the B → Z transition of poly(dGdC)·poly(dGdC) which occurs at ∼60 μM Co(NH3)63+, with a decrease in RNA synthesis to ∼ 1 2 the original rate, in the presence of E. coli RNA polymerase. A decrease in RNA synthesis also accompanies the conversion of a similar double helix in which the guanines are methylated, poly(dGdm5C)·poly(dGdm5C), from the B to the Z form, even though this transition occurs at a much lower (∼3 μM) Co(III) concentration. Clearly the metal complex has profound effects on the DNA conformation, and the DNA conformation affects the ability of the DNA to act as a template for RNA synthesis.
Influence of local and remote sea surface temperatures on precipitation as inferred from changes in boundary-layer moisture convergence and moist thermodynamics over global oceans

A comprehensive method of estimating the influences of local versus remote sea surface temperatures (SSTs) on precipitation is developed. The method was applied to two ten-year simulations made with a general circulation model (GCM) and forced with prescribed SSTs. The simulation period spanned from 1 January 1982 to 31 December 1991. The first simulation (called Cs) was forced with naturally varying SSTs taken from the analysis of observations and the second simulation (called Cc) was forced with monthly mean climatology of SSTs used in Cs. Monthly data of evaporation, precipitation, mean vertical velocity and atmospheric moisture convergence were binned by 1 °C SST intervals and plotted as bin means and within-bin standard deviations. The plots showed that (i) binning captured the averaged trend of SST influences on the monthly fields, but with large standard deviations; (ii) all bin-averaged SST dependences were remarkably similar in the two simulations as well as in the single El Nino Southern Oscillation year of 1987; (iii) evaporation increased monotonically with SST up to about 27 °C after which it plateaued; and (iv) precipitation correlated much more with the vertical velocity than with the local SST. Monthly precipitation fields were doubly binned with respect to SSTs and boundary-layer moisture convergence (BLqC); data binned in this way were used to compute the partial derivatives of precipitation with respect to SST and BLqC. Together with the total rate of change of BLqC with local SSTs, the rate of change of precipitation with local SST was computed. The remaining precipitation differences were lumped together as all other remote effects. Simulation Cc was used to infer the natural variability of the precipitation required for the statistical significance of the local SST and/or remotely caused changes in precipitation. This analysis categorized all precipitation anomalies into four types: (i) where the local SST influences were significant, (ii) where the remote SSTs influences were significant, (iii) where both influences were significant, and (iv) where the natural variability was larger than both influences. Most of the precipitation responses to SSTs were as expected, while their seasonal behaviour revealed that local SSTs contribute to a number of features of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) including the double ITCZ in March–April–May. Published in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein: A novel LH-induced mitochondrial protein required for the acute regulation of steroidogenesis in mouse leydig tumor cells

The acute response of steroidogenic cells to hormone stimulation is the mobilization of cholesterol from cellular stores and the outer mitochondrial membrane to the inner mitochondrial membrane and the cholesterol side-chain cleavage complex (CSCC) where the first enzymatic reaction occurs. It has been well established that the translocation of cholesterol from the outer to the inner mitochondrial membrane requires de novo protein synthesis and that this process is the rate-limiting, regulated step in steroidogenesis. We have purified a novel mitochondrial protein (named StAR) from the MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells which we have previously proposed represents a strong candidate for the newly synthesized regulatory protein in steroidogenesis. The cDNA for StAR was cloned and we have demonstrated that expression of the StAR protein in MA-10 cells in the absence of hormone stimulation results in a 3 fold increase in progesterone production compared to mock transfected cells. These studies indicate a direct indicate a direct relationship between StAR expression and steroidogenesis, therefore, we conclude that StAR is required in the acute regulation of steroidogenesis.
Verbal self-reports of delayed matching to sample by humans.

Undergraduates participated in two experiments to develop methods for the experimental analysis of self-reports about behavior. The target behavior was the choice response in a delayed-matching-to-sample task in which monetary reinforcement was contingent upon both speed and accuracy of the choice. In Experiment 1, the temporal portion of the contingency was manipulated within each session, and the presence and absence of feedback about reinforcement was manipulated across sessions. As the time limits became stricter, target response speeds increased, but accuracy and reinforcement rates decreased. When feedback was withheld, further reductions in speed and reinforcement occurred, but only at the strictest time limit. Thus, the procedures were successful in producing systematic variation in the speed, accuracy, and reinforcement of the target behavior. Experiment 2 was designed to assess the influence of these characteristics on self-reports. In self-report conditions, each target response was followed by a computer-generated query: “Did you earn points?” The subject reported by pressing “Yes” or “No” buttons, with the sole consequence of advancing the session. In some cases, feedback about reinforcement of the target response followed the reports; in other cases it was withheld. Self-reports were less accurate when the target responses occurred under greater time pressure. When feedback was withheld, the speed of the target response influenced reports, in that the probability of a “Yes” report increased directly with the speed of accurate target responses. In addition, imposing the self-report procedure disrupted target performance by reducing response speeds at the strictest time limit. These results allow investigation of issues in both behavioral and cognitive psychology. More important, the overall order in the data suggests promise for the experimental analysis of self-reports by human subjects.
Helping parents decide on ADHD treatment for their children

In the United States, medication is often the first intervention used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Yet psychosocial interventions with both parents and teachers working together to shape the child's behavior can also be an effective approach, enabling smaller amounts of medication to be used with fewer side effects. An overview of behavioral interventions is provided with a focus on parent training in child behavior management and teacher training in classroom management. Key nursing interventions on behalf of children with ADHD include assessing parental knowledge about treatment, listening supportively to parents, and promoting partnerships among parents, teachers, and providers.
Homeostatic regulation of cellular energy metabolism

During the past years a comprehensive model for the regulation of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation has been developed. The model can account for the observed relationship among the cellular energy supply ([ATP][ADP][Pi]) the intramitochondrial reducing power ([NAD + ][NADH]) and the cellular respiratory rate.
Gender-based differences in cytokine production after burn injury: a role of interleukin-6.

Background Gender-specific differences have been found in the survival of patients after a burn injury. Using a murine model of burn injury, suppression of cell-mediated immunity occurs in a gender-specific manner. Immunosuppression correlated with elevated circulating interleukin-6. This study examines gender differences in cytokine production after injury and the role of interleukin-6. Study Design A murine model of dorsal scald injury was used to examine differences in splenocyte production of interleukin-2, interleukin-4, and interferon-γ in male versus female mice, and cytokine production in interleukin-6−deficient male mice. Results At 24 hours after burn injury, there was substantially greater suppression of T-helper 1 cytokine production in male mice than in female mice. Interleukin-6−deficient male mice had improved cytokine production relative to wild-type mice. Conclusions Suppression of the cell-mediated immune response in male mice correlated with lower T-helper 1 cytokine production, compared with female mice. Additionally, immune response and cytokine production is improved by interleukin-6 deficiency.
Testosterone induces expression of transforming growth factor-beta1 in the murine thymus

Castration of adult male mice results in enlargement of the thymus and diminution of peripheral suppressor T cell function. Replacement therapy with physiologic doses of androgens reverses these phenomena. Although the mediators involved are unknown, these effects of androgens on the thymus and peripheral immune system are reminiscent of those reported for transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta 1). We examined expression of TGF-beta 1 mRNA and bioactive protein in thymuses from castrate and androgen-replaced animals. Steady-state levels of thymic TGF-beta 1 mRNA fell slightly after castration, but rose 2.3-fold after testosterone replacement. Bioactive TGF-beta 1 production by cultured thymic explants also fell following castration to approx. 50% of the levels observed in intact animals. Following 1 week of testosterone replacement in castrate animals, TGF-beta 1 bioactivity produced in culture was restored to levels indistinguishable from those observed with explants from intact animals. Reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction amplification of RNA revealed that thymocytes are a source of the androgen-modulated TGF-beta 1. These results suggest that TGF-beta 1 may mediate effects of androgens on the immune system.
Changes of ticagrelor formulary tiers in the USA: targeting private insurance providers away from government-funded plans.

Context: Ticagrelor (Brilinta®) is a new oral reversible antiplatelet agent approved by the FDA in July 2011 based on the results of the PLATO (Platelet Inhibition and Patient Outcomes) trial. However, despite very favorable and broad indications, the current clinical utilization of ticagrelor is woefully small. Objective: We aimed to compare ticagrelor formulary tiers for major private (n = 8) and government-funded (n = 4) insurance providers for 2012-2013. Results: Over the last year, ticagrelor placement improved, becoming a preferred drug (from Tier 3 in 2012 to Tier 2 in 2013) for Medco, moving from Tier 4 (with a prior approval requirement) to Tier 3 (no prior approval) for the United Health Care Private Plan and achieving Tier 3 status for Apex in 2013. In contrast, ticagrelor placement did not improve for New York Medicaid, retaining Tier 3 status. In addition, many Medicare Part D formularies have significantly worse coverage than most private plans. For example, Humana Medicare Part D has Tier 3 status requiring step therapy and quantity limits, SilverScript (CVS Caremark) Part D is Tier 3 and the American Association of Retired Persons (United Health Care) Medicare Part D is Tier 4 requiring prior approval. Conclusions: Ticagrelor formulary placement is significantly better for most private providers than for government-funded plans, which may possibly be due to the selective targeting of private insurance providers and the simultaneous avoidance of government-funded plans.
Multiple imputation in quantile regression.

SUMMARY We propose a multiple imputation estimator for parameter estimation in a quantile regression model when some covariates are missing at random. The estimation procedure fully utilizes the entire dataset to achieve increased efficiency, and the resulting coefficient estimators are root-n consistent and asymptotically normal. To protect against possible model misspecification, we further propose a shrinkage estimator, which automatically adjusts for possible bias. The finite sample performance of our estimator is investigated in a simulation study. Finally, we apply our methodology to part of the Eating at American’s Table Study data, investigating the association between two measures of dietary intake.
Effect of dietary sulfur upon the production and absorption of lactate in sheep.

Abstract Studies in vitro indicated that microorganisms from sheep fed a sulfur-free' purified diet produced large quantities of lactate from substrates of either glucose or the diet on which the animal is fed. This lactate did not appear to be converted to the volatile fatty acids to any appreciable extent. There was only a temporary accumulation of lactate when microorganisms from the sheep fed the sulfur-adequate diet fermented glucose or the diet. Results in vitro and in vivo illustrated that these rumen microorganisms form primarily D -lactate, but gradually a greater proportion of the L form appears. The blood lactate of the sheep fed the sulfur-free diet was higher than that of the sheep fed the sulfur-adequate diet. Good agreement was obtained between values for total lactate and L -lactate in the blood of the sheep fed the sulfur-adequate diet, but there was a discrepancy between those values obtained for lactate in the blood of the sheep fed the sulfur-free diet, indicating the presence of the D form of lactate. The elevated lactate levels in the blood and urine and the presence of D -lactate in the blood of the sheep fed the sulfur-free diet were taken as evidence for lactate absorption. The blood glucose of the sheep fed the sulfur-free diet was about twice that of the control sheep.
Solvent regeneration of activated carbon

Abstract Nineteen solvents were evaluated in batch tests involving the desorption of a representative organic adsorbate (phenol) from activated carbon. Three of the better solvents which also possess complete miscibility with water (acetone, dimethylformamide, methanol) were tested further in fixed-bed runs. The effects of solvent temperature and solvent flow rate on phenol desorption were evaluated. In addition, the recovery of phenol adsorption capacity by an activated carbon bed operated cyclically using a sequence of phenol adsorption, desorption with methanol, and rinsing with water was determined. It was found that solvent temperature and flow rate are not critical variables. Solvent volume and type were the most important factors in phenol desorption. A modest volume of methanol restored 88% of the fixed-bed adsorption capacity for phenol after 1 regeneration, and the capacity essentially leveled off after 5 regenerations at a value of 81% of the capacity of fresh carbon. Methanol regeneration is effective, easy to perform and offers convenient solvent recovery. Thus, it is an attractive alternative to thermal regeneration methods.