cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Linoleic Acid Hydroperoxide on Endothelial Cell Calcium Homeostasis and Phospholipid Hydrolysis

Abstract The relationship between intracellular free calcium ion concentrations ([Ca 2+ ] i ) and release of arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids following peroxidation was examined in rabbit aortic endothelial cells treated with linoleic acid hydroperoxide (LOOH). LOOH (0.1–0.4) μmol/10 6 cells) caused a rapid and dose-dependent transient increase in [Ca 2+ ] i in the presence of extracellular Ca 2+ that remained elevated over baseline for 15 to 30 s. In the absence of extracellular Ca 2+ , LOOH also evoked a transient increase in [Ca 2+ ] i of lesser magnitude which immediately returned to basal (or below basal) levels. In this regard, the rise in intracellular Ca 2+ after LOOH or vasopressin (AVP) treatments involved, at least in part, related intracellular pools that in each case was followed by influx of extracellular Ca 2+ . The intracellular membrane sources of Ca 2+ remain unidentified as common sources known to be affected by vasopressin were not directly involved. Most notably, the LOOH evoked rise in [Ca 2+ ] i was not associated with release of IP 3 , suggesting that the source of intracellular Ca 2+ is not IP 3 -sensitive pools. However, pretreatment with LOOH strongly inhibited the rise in [Ca 2+ ] i upon subsequent addition of AVP or LOOH and the extent of such inhibition was dependent on the availability of free intracellular Ca 2+ and presence of extracellular Ca 2+ . These findings suggest that reuptake of Ca 2+ into intracellular membrane pools is reduced in the presence of LOOH and/or the availability of Ca 2+ from agonist-sensitive sites is inhibited by LOOH. An increase in free 20:4 levels was found after LOOH treatment that was only partly prevented using intracellular Ca 2+ chela tors which maintained [Ca 2+ ] i at basal levels after LOOH treatment. These findings suggest that LOOH induction of phospholipid hydrolysis proceeds following small transients in [Ca 2+ ] i that are considerably less than that evoked by agents such as AVP, approximating basal Ca 2+ concentrations. Inhibition of LOOH-induced lipid peroxidation by vitamin E also prevented the rise in [Ca 2+ ] i and 20:4 release indicating that phospholipid hydrolysis is dependent, at least in part, on membrane lipid peroxidation. Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) completely blocked LOOH-induced release of 20:4 but had little effect on the LOOH-induced rise in [Ca 2+ ] i , suggesting an indirect rela- tionship between LOOH-induced membrane Ca 2+ signalling events, with intervention via PKC-mediated induction of phospholipid hydrolysis. A rapid and progressive translocation of PKC to the membrane fraction was evident after LOOH addition over the time course corresponding to the maximal release of 20:4 which was also inhibited by vitamin E. The findings are discussed in terms of possible mechanisms underlying the stimulation of phospholipase(s), purportedly phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 ) activity, by peroxidation of cell membrane phospholipids and enhancement of protein kinase activity.
De novo design of native proteins: characterization of proteins intended to fold into antiparallel, rop-like, four-helix bundles.

ABSTRACT : The de noVo design and characterization of a series of 51-residue helix-turn-helix peptidesintended to dimerize into antiparallel four-stranded coiled coils is described. The sequence is based ona coiled coil heptad repeat N cap -(A a Z b Z c L d Z e Z f Z g ) 3 -turn- (X a Z b Z c L d Z e Z f Z g ) 3 -C cap -CONH 2 , where X iseither Val or Ala. The overall topology was intended to be similar to that found in the Escherichia coliprotein ROP. The design strategy included consideration of geometric complementarity of the packingof side chains within the hydrophobic core as well as the use of specific interfacial interactions, both ofwhich were intended to favor the desired ROP-like topology. Additionally, the sequence was designedto destabilize potential alternative structures that might compete with the desired topology. The peptides(RLP-1, RLP-2, and RLP-3) assemble into stableR-helical dimers and exhibit the hallmarks of a nativeprotein as judged by its spectroscopic properties, and the lack of binding to hydrophobic dyes. Also, theenthalpy and heat capacity changes upon denaturation were determined by measuring the temperaturedependence of the CD spectra and confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The valuesdetermined by the two methods are in excellent agreement and are in the range of those of naturallyoccurring proteins of this size. These results suggest that it is now possible to design native-like helicalproteins that should serve as templates for the further design of functional proteins.Significant progress has been achieved in the design ofproteins from first principles (Nautiyal et al., 1995; Olofssonet al., 1995; Raleigh et al., 1995; Betz & DeGrado, 1996).Recently, we described a series of fundamental principlesfor the hierarchic de noVo design of R-helical bundles (Betz& DeGrado, 1996). Three principles guide the designprocess and include (i) the use of complementary packingwithin the hydrophobic core, (ii) the use of specific interfacialinteractions to promote interhelical association, and (iii) theuse of both core and interfacial interactions to destabilizepotential alternate conformations.Here, we describe the design and characterization ofhelix-turn-helix peptides designed to dimerize into a four-helix bundle that mimics the topology found in the Escheri-chia coli protein ROP (Banner et al., 1987). ROP iscomposed of two 63-residue peptides that form an antiparallelfour-stranded coiled coil in which the two connecting loopsare on opposite sides of the structure (Figure 1). The proteinsdescribed here are designed to be an abstraction of thatstructure and have the sequence N
Heat tolerance in tuber bearingSolanum species: A protocol for screening

Three hundred nineteen accessions of 59 tuber bearing species ofSolanum were screened for heat tolerance. The ability to produce shoot growth at high temperature (30 to 40 C) was tested initially. Since shoot growth is affected by tuberization, plants were grown at 18-h photoperiods to minimize tuber induction in all accessions. Fifty-one accessions of seven species were screened in three separate years to assess the stability of the estimates of heat tolerance. Shoot fresh weights at the high temperature were significantly correlated (r=0.7) from year to year, as were ratings for plant vigor at the high temperature (r=0.5). Accessions that showed good shoot growth at the high temperature were screened again for tuberization under short days and high temperature (30 to 40 C). In general, tuberization was highly variable, but a few species and a few accessions showed consistent tuberization at 30 to 40 C.
Simple compact tree storage of a multidimensional array

Abstract Algorithms are described for storing and retrieving an array having a large and variable number of indices, each of which takes on values which are usually small integers, but whose maximum size is unknown. Such arrays are extremely common in physical problems, where the indices may be quantum numbers (describing the electrons in a many-electron atom, for example) or point separations on a lattice (as in the case of lattice Green functions). Usual methods for storing such arrays are very wasteful of space, and the resulting large memory requirements are often the limiting factor in the quality of physical calculations. The “trie” structure described here is conservative of memory. We have written a set of FORTRAN subroutines which allow a user to store and retrieve array elements efficiently without a detailed understanding of the tree structure; these are described in an accompanying write-up.
Platelet-derived Growth Factor-specific Regulation of theJE Promoter in Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells

Abstract JE is a member of the family of “immediate early” genes induced by growth factors and cytokines.JE encodes a low molecular weight secretory glycoprotein analogous to the human monocyte chemoattractant protein, MCP-1. JE and MCP-1 proteins are thought to play an important role in inflammation and in the recruitment of monocyte/macrophages to the vessel wall during the development of atherosclerosis. We have previously reported that the induction of JE in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) was specific to platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and was not seen with other growth agonists. Using a luciferase reporter system and transient transfection assays of rat aortic SMC, we now report the identification of a region in the proximal rat JE promoter that is responsive to PDGF but not to other growth factors (angiotensin II and α-thrombin) or cytokines (interleukin 1-β and tumor necrosis factor-α). The full response to PDGF (∼6-fold) requires the cooperative activity of two potentially novel cis-acting elements, at positions −146 to −128 and −84 to −59. While each element produces a different pattern in electrophoretic mobility shift assays, they appear to bind the same PDGF-responsive species. Further analysis of these regions should provide important insights into PDGF-specific responses in vascular SMC.
Liquid and Chemical Fluxes in Precipitation, Throughfall and Stemflow: Observations from a Deciduous Forest and a Red Pine Plantation in the Midwestern U.S.A.

Wet deposition (WD), throughfall (TF) and stemflow (SF) measurements undertaken in a deciduous forest show 85% of the WD liquid flux is observed as TF and approximately 2% as SF. TF and SF were observed to be enriched in base cations and accordingly had an average pH of 6.1 and 5.9, respectively relative to a WD pH of 5.1. The seasonal variability of TF pH below the deciduous canopies was more pronounced than that of WD though both exhibited a growing season maximum, and there is evidence that the seasonal variability of TF pH below the pines is inverted relative to the deciduous canopies likely due to enhanced dust capture and buffering by calcium carbonate. TF ion concentrations differed significantly between deciduous and pine canopies during the growing season, and there is some evidence that variation in sky view factor of 0.18–0.22 is sufficient to manifest statistically differing TF composition below sugar maples. The total atmospheric flux of inorganic nitrogen to the forest is approximately 14–18 kg-N ha−1 yr−1 with approximately half taken up by the canopy. Associated experiments designed to quantify uncertainties in the nutrient fluxes included laboratory tests of the Aerochem automated wet-dry sampler. These experiments indicate the delay in initiating sample collection is less than half a minute for rainfall rates above 1 cm h−1, but may increase substantially for lower precipitation rates.
Making Self-Care a Priority for Women At Risk of Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema:

Estimates suggest that between 41% and 94% of breast cancer survivors may develop the chronic condition of secondary lymphedema at some point during their lifetimes. Self-care is critical for effective lymphedema management and risk-reduction. At the same time, women in general have been characterized as engaging in self-sacrificing behaviors in which they choose other-care over self-care. This study explored the self-care experiences of women with breast cancer within the contexts of complex and demanding familial and work-related responsibilities. Participants (N=14) were enrolled in a behavioral-educational intervention aimed at lymphedema risk-reduction. This feminist family theory-informed secondary analysis of qualitative data focused on women's familial roles and the balance or lack of balance between self-sacrifice and self-care. Findings included participants' struggles with time management and prioritizing self-care over care of others as well as making a commitment to self-care. Findings have implications for patient and family-level education and research with regard to gender role-based barriers to self-care and self-care within complex social contexts.
Softening Up: Making Conflicts More Amenable to Diplomacy

In this paper, we explore the process by which initially reluctant protagonists come to accept diplomacy to resolve their conflicts; we refer to this as “softening up.” Although some studies exploring mediation and negotiation initiation have identified a number of important factors, they have produced largely modest results. These modest findings may reflect the fact that the conditions that promote diplomacy do so only after disputants have been softened up, thereby producing results that are statistically significant, but not substantively strong, unless one controls for a softening effect. In this paper, we develop and test a model of softening up. We do so by studying all pairs of rival states in the period 1946–1995.
Pauromys and other small Sciuravidae (Mammalia: Rodentia) from the middle Eocene of Texas

ABSTRACT The southernmost Uintan (middle to late middle Eocene) vertebrate faunas in North America occur in Trans-Pecos Texas and in the Texas Gulf Coast province at Laredo. Small rodents, mainly represented by isolated teeth, are among the most abundant faunal elements. These rodent faunas show high endemism and a Uintan refugium in Texas for some forms which fail to persist in the better-known coeval faunas of the Northern Interior. Two new species of Pauromys (P. texensis, sp. nov. and P. simplex, sp. nov.) are described, as well as other small Sciuravidae, extending the known range of Pauromys southward to the Gulf Coast and late into the Uintan. Pauromys was the ecological equivalent of modern Peromyscus or Mus in being small, abundant, and with several syntopic species.
Continuity and chaos in discrete dynamical systems

We study the map ω: I × C(I, I) → K given by (x, f) → ω (x, f) that takes a point x in the unit interval I = [0, 1] and f a continuous self-map of the unit interval to the ω-limit set ω (x, f) that together they generate. We characterize those points (x, f) ∈I × C(I, I) at which ω : I × C(I, I) → K is continuous, and show that ω: I × C(I, I) → K is in the second class of Baire. We also consider the trajectory map τ : I × C(I, I) → l∞ given by (x, f) → τ (x, f) = {x, f(x), f(f(x)), ... } and find that both ω: I × C(I, I) → K and τ : I × C(I, I) → l∞ are continuous on a residual subset of I × C(I, I). We show that the Hausdorff s-dimensional measure of an ω-limit set is typically zero for every s > 0.
Prevalence of oiled plumage of terns and skimmers on western long island, New York: Baseline data prior to petroleum exploration

Abstract Observations at Long Island seabird colonies during the period 1969 to 1978 revealed a more or less constant prevalence of oiling of less than 1% for adult common terns and nearly 2% for adult black skimmers. Oiling was usually light (1–2 on a scale of 5) and very few heavily oiled birds were seen either at the colonies or elsewhere on Long Island's beaches. Currently oiling of seabirds on the Atlantic Coast of North America is not a widespread or serious problem compared with its prevalence on parts of the Pacific and Gulf Coasts of North America and in Europe. Data presented here provide a baseline for comparison with future years, since oil exploration began off Long Island during 1978 and large-scale exploitation is planned.
New algorithms and lower bounds for the parallel evaluation of certain rational expressions

This paper presents new algorithms for the parallel evaluation of certain polynomial expression. In particular, for the parallel evaluation of xn,we introduce an algorithm which takes two steps of parallel division and [log2n] steps of parallel addition, while the usual algorithm takes [log2n] steps of parallel multiplication. Hence our algorithm is faster than the usual algorithms when multiplication takes more time than addition. Similar algorithm for the evaluation of other polynomial expressions are also introduced. Lower bounds on the time needed for the parallel evaluation of rational expressions are given. All the algorithms presented in the paper are shown to be asymptotically optimal. Moreover, we prove that by using parallelism the evaluation of any first order rational recurrence, e.g., [equation], and any non-linear polynomial recurrence can be sped up at most by a constant factor, no matter how many processors are used.
Time-dependent model for hemoglobin and allosteric enzymes. I. General formulation.

A previous equilibrium model is generalized to study time-dependent behavior of hemoglobin and allosteric enzymes. An exact solution for two interacting subunits (e.g., diheme) is given, and a general method for solving the resulting set of differential equations is outlined. At half saturation (equilibrium) concentration, the model takes a particularly simple form which suggests an experiment to determine the number of subunits of an allosteric enzyme, or in particular to distinguish diheme from ordinary hemoglobin. The relation between the present model and other kinetic models is also discussed.
Sulfur-donor ligand ortho-metalated complexes of ruthenium

Abstract Thiobenzophenones react with triruthenium dodecacarbonyl [Ru 3 (CO) 12 ] in toluene to afford novel sulfur-donor ligand ortho -metalated complexes in high yield.
Do monomeric vs dimeric forms of MAO-A make a difference? A direct comparison of the catalytic properties of rat and human MAO-A’s

The recent crystallographic structures of human MAO-A and rat MAO-A have shown that human MAO-A is monomeric whereas rat MAO-A is a dimer, even though they share ∼90% sequence identity. The functional significance of this structural difference is unknown. Therefore, biochemical approaches in this paper were performed to investigate the influence of oligomeric state on functional properties of human and rat MAO-A’s. The data show that 1) dimerization of MAO-A increases its structural stability; 2) the differences in kinetic properties may be caused by differences in active site structures as a result of differences in oligomeric states of the human and the rat enzymes; 3) QSAR studies show rat MAO-A as well as human MAO-A catalysis occur via proton abstraction mechanisms, and the binding of substrates is similar for both enzymes.
Effect of daylight saving time on lighting energy use : A literature review

The principal reason for introducing (and extending) daylight saving time (DST) was, and still is, projected energy savings, particularly for electric lighting. This paper presents a literature review concerning the effects of DST on energy use. Simple estimates suggest a reduction in national electricity use of around 0.5%, as a result of residential lighting reduction. Several studies have demonstrated effects of this size based on more complex simulations or on measured data. However, there are just as many studies that suggest no effect, and some studies suggest overall energy penalties, particularly if gasoline consumption is accounted for. There is general consensus that DST does contribute to an evening reduction in peak demand for electricity, though this may be offset by an increase in the morning. Nevertheless, the basic patterns of energy use, and the energy efficiency of buildings and equipment have changed since many of these studies were conducted. Therefore, we recommend that future energy policy decisions regarding changes to DST be preceded by high-quality research based on detailed analysis of prevailing energy use, and behaviours and systems that affect energy use. This would be timely, given the extension to DST underway in North America in 2007.
Geometric tolerancing: 1. Virtual boundary requirements

We examine the representation of geometric tolerances in solid-geometric models from the perspective of two classes of functional requirements. The first class deals with positioning of parts with respect to one another in an assembly, and the second with maintaining material bulk in critical portions of parts. Both are directly relatable to the geometry of the parts. Through examples, we demonstrate that these functional requirements can be captured in a specific form of tolerances designated as virtual boundary requirements (VBRs). We further demonstrate that the only proposed theory of tolerances in solid models, and the current dimensioning and tolerancing standards in industrial practice, are both inadequate for dealing with VBRs. Accordingly, we develop a theoretical basis for the rigorous statement and interpretation of VBRs.
Minimally Invasive Valve Surgery

Cardiac valve surgery is life saving for many patients. The advent of minimally invasive surgical techniques has historically allowed for improvement in both postoperative convalescence and important clinical outcomes. The development of minimally invasive cardiac valve repair and replacement surgery over the past decade is poised to revolutionize the care of cardiac valve patients. Here, we present a review of the history and current trends in minimally invasive aortic and mitral valve repair and replacement, including the development of sutureless bioprosthetic valves.
Gas flow problem: solving non-linear BVP with given lower-upper solutions interactively

Modelling the unsteady isothermal flow of a gas through a semi-infinite porous medium results in a sensitive non-linear two-point boundary value problem (BVP) over an infinite interval for which the lower and upper solutions have been established analytically. We present an interactive solution procedure based on the lower and upper solutions (LUSOL) for this BVP whose conversion to an initial value problem (IVP) without making use of the LUSOL is usually not numerically possible. In other words, the gas flow problem considered here is an excellent example of a case where knowledge of easily computable LUSOL is extremely important if one does not want to land in a situation in which all non-LUSOL-based methods fail.
Lithistid Sponges: Star Performers or Hosts to the Stars.

Extremely careful separation of the symbiotic bacteria from the cells of lithistid sponges has provided evidence that in the case of Theonella swinhoei the chemically diverse and biologically active metabolites, swinholide A and theopalauamide (1), are produced by symbionts. Marine sponges of the order Lithistida contain a diverse range of exotic natural products with valuable biological and pharmacological activities.
Spray Vaccination : A Method for the Immunization of Fish

An economical, efficacious vaccine delivery system for immunizing fish has been developed which employs a liquid spray apparatus operated at pressures up to 7.0 kg/cm2 (0 to 100 lb/in2). A bacterin consisting of formalin-killed Vibrio anguillarum culture was both antigenic and immunogenic when sprayed on coho salmon(Oncorhynchus kisutch)and rainbow trout(Salmo gairdneri). The technique, referred to as spray(shower)vaccination, was found to confer higher levels of immunity against virulent V. anguillarum than oral vaccination.
Long-term outcome after liver transplantation.

Liver transplantation is a life-saving therapy for patients with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, and liver tumors. Over the past 4 decades, improvements in surgical techniques, peritransplant intensive care, and immunosuppressive regimens have resulted in significant improvements in short-term survival. Focus has now shifted to addressing long-term complications and improving quality of life in liver recipients. These include adverse effects of immunosuppression; recurrence of the primary liver disease; and management of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, renal dysfunction, osteoporosis, and de novo malignancy. Issues such as posttransplant depression, employment, sexual function, fertility, and pregnancy must not be overlooked, as they have a direct impact on the liver recipient's quality of life. This review summarizes the latest data in long-term outcome after liver transplantation. Mt Sinai J Med 79:169–189, 2012.© 2012 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Fertility as a Priority among At-Risk Adolescent Males Newly Diagnosed with Cancer and Their Parents

Purpose Infertility is a frequent consequence of cancer therapy and is often associated with psychological distress. Although adult survivors prioritize fertility and parenthood, this issue remains unexplored among adolescent males. This study examined future fertility as a priority (relative to other life goals) at time of diagnosis for at-risk adolescents and their parents.
Phosphoinositide hydrolysis, Gαq, phospholipase C, and protein kinase C in post mortem human brain: Effects of post mortem interval, subject age, and alzheimer's disease

Abstract Influences of post mortem time interval, subject age and Alzheimer's disease were investigated on several components of the phosphoinositide second messenger system, including stimulation of [ 3 H]phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis by GTP[S] and several receptor agonists and the levels of Gαq, β, δ and γ subtypes of phospholipase C, and five protein kinase C isoforms, in membranes prepared from post mortem human prefrontal cortex. Most of these components were stable with post mortem delays in the range of 5–21 h, but decreases of Gαq and the α and ζ protein kinase C subtypes were detected. Within the subject age range of 19–100 years, G-protein- and agonist-induced [ 3 H]phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis decreased, as did levels of Gαq, but the levels of phospholipase C and protein kinase C subtypes were generally unchanged. In Alzheimer's disease, compared with age- and post mortem interval-matched controls, there was a decrease in [ 3 H]phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis stimulated by G-proteins and by several receptor agonists, but the levels of Gαq and most of the phospholipase C and protein kinase C isoforms were unaffected. The greatest deficits, which were >50%, occurred with GTP[S]- and carbachol-induced [ 3 H]phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis, indicating that this G-protein function and the response to cholinergic stimulation are significantly impaired in Alzheimer's disease. In summary a comprehensive assessment of several components of the phosphoinositide second messenger system was made in post mortem human brain. Most elements were stable within the post mortem interval range of 5–21 h, lending validity to measurements using these tissues. Significant age-related reductions in several components were identified, indicating loss of responses with increasing age. Most importantly, severe reductions in responses to several stimuli were found in Alzheimer's disease brain, deficits in signal transduction which may contribute to impaired cognition and to the limited therapeutic responses to drugs, such as those used to activate cholinergic receptors coupled with the phosphoinositide system.
Mechanical behaviour of apricot pit under compression loading

The mechanical properties of apricot pit were determined in terms of average rupture force, deformation and toughness (energy absorbed by the pit per unit volume). Samples at various moisture contents were compressed along the X-, Y-, and Z-axes. The X-axis is the loading axis through the length dimension, while the Y-axis is the transverse axis containing the minor dimension (width) at right angles to the X-axis, and Z-axis is the transverse axis containing the minimum dimension (thickness). Physical characteristics of apricot pit and its kernel such as mass, dimensions and geometric mean diameter were determined. The experiments have shown that rupture force, deformation and toughness generally decreased in magnitude with an increase in moisture content from 6.38% to 39.33% db. The highest rupture force, deformation and toughness in all moisture content levels were obtained for apricot pit loaded along the X-axis. Compression along the Y-axis required less compressive force to extract the kernel as compared to other two compression axes. In this study, it was observed that there was no kernel breakage for loading along the X- and Y-axes. Especially, at higher moistures, there was always the tendency of the kernel breakage for loading along the Z-axis. The results provide useful data to be used by engineers in the design of suitable apricot pit cracking machine.
Rationale for the water hole

Abstract A band of frequencies extending from 1400 to 1700 MHz and embracing the hydrogen and hydroxyl spectral lines has been dubbed the “water hole” and is considered to be a prime band for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). This paper gives the physical and psychological basis for this belief.
Novel chemical methods for the infiltration of opal particles with electrically conductive polyaniline polymers

Chemical methods for successfully coating opal particles with electrically conducting polyaniline (PANi) polymers were studied. Two different routes were proven successful. First was the in situ chemical doping reaction of PANi with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) and camphorsulfonic acid dopants. The other method was placement of opal particles in a low concentration of a conducting PANi/DBSA solution in chloroform. Ultraviolet analyses of opal samples showed typical spectra for doped PANi with delocalized polarons. The electrical resistance of coated opal was measured to be 0.75 × 103 Ω. Morphological studies of the fractured surface by scanning electron microscopy indicated successful coating. Cyclic voltammetry studies confirmed the percolating behavior of infiltrated PANi. Also, a selective electroactive behavior toward the type of dopant was observed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 788–793, 2002
Bronchoconstriction caused by Florida red tide toxins.

Abstract D. G. Baden , T. J. Mende , G. Bikhazi and I. Leung . Bronchoconstriction caused by Florida red tide toxins. Toxicon20, 929–932, 1982.—T17, a toxin purified from laboratory cultures of Florida's redtide organism, Ptychodiscus brevis (formerly Gymnodinium breve), produces bronchoconstriction in anesthetized artificially-ventilated guinea pigs. Bronchoconstriction, measured as a resistance to mechanical pulmonary inflation, was antagonized by atropine, but not by interruption of vagal nerve stimulation or diaphragm dissection.
Computational problems on composite grids

Most currently used algorithms for the numerical solution of the partial differential equations encountered in fluid flow problems can be implemented on composite grid systems. Finite volume formulations are easier to derive on composite grids, and may in principle be derived for partial differential equations of all types. Except when using Alternating Difference Implicit-type schemes, the overlapping of grids is an alternative to the more common grid construction procedure where grid lines continue smoothly from one subregion to the next. In the solution of model problems, the correct choice of an interpolation formula has been found able to reduce errors by a factor of two.
Formation and characterization of YBa2Cu3O7-δ high-Tc thin films by MOCVD with single mixed precursor

Abstract In view of the promising role of the MOCVD technique in the advance of YBCO high- T c superconducting thin films grown for device applications, a simplified chemical vapor deposition system with a single mixed organometallic precursor was built and tested. Single phase YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ films with T c values around 90 K were readily obtained on (100) YSZ and (100) MgO substrates with a normal precursor mass transport. Investigations indicate that, in addition to the gas phase stoichiometry as a major factor, the phase composition and crystallite orientations of the YBCO films were considerably affected by the oxidation agent (partial pressure and concentration) as well as the substrate temperature. The films could be either highly oriented (00 l ) or (100) and / or (110) orientation dominated. A single phase Y 2 Cu 2 O 5 film with (002) orientation was obtained from a Ba deficient gas phase. The variation in superconducting behavior of the YBCO thin films deposited under different conditions was not only related to these phases but also to the growth orientation. The film uniformity and flatness are examined and discussed in terms of the gas flow pattern in the reactor.
The E2 Ubiquitin-conjugating Enzyme UBE2J1 Is Required for Spermiogenesis in Mice

ER-resident proteins destined for degradation are dislocated into the cytosol by components of the ER quality control machinery for proteasomal degradation. Dislocation substrates are ubiquitylated in the cytosol by E2 ubiquitin-conjugating/E3 ligase complexes. UBE2J1 is one of the well-characterized E2 enzymes that participate in this process. However, the physiological function of Ube2j1 is poorly defined. We find that Ube2j1−/− mice have reduced viability and fail to thrive early after birth. Male Ube2j1−/− mice are sterile due to a defect in late spermatogenesis. Ultrastructural analysis shows that removal of the cytoplasm is incomplete in Ube2j1−/− elongating spermatids, compromising the release of mature elongate spermatids into the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. Our findings identify an essential function for the ubiquitin-proteasome-system in spermiogenesis and define a novel, non-redundant physiological function for the dislocation step of ER quality control.
Hot-mix asphalt pavement frictional resistance as a function of aggregate physical properties

Aggregates were tested for acid insolubility, differential wear (DW), and frictional resistance and along with physical data were correlated to aggregate frictional resistance. Physical data included bulk specific gravity, per cent absorption, per cent loss from impact, and per cent loss from brine freeze/thaw. It was observed that the aggregates used had a negligible amount of insoluble material and therefore had an insignificant effect on the frictional resistance. Terminal frictional resistance increased with decreasing bulk specific gravity, and increased with increasing per cent absorption and per cent loss from impact. Correlation between terminal frictional resistance and brine loss was moderate. DW measurements were taken on stone–slag aggregate blends to determine the effectiveness of blends used in pavement mixtures. DW results indicated that the high-friction component of each blend could be improved by blending with softer carbonate aggregates, which also may be more cost effective.
A Historical Gem from Vito Volterra.

Sometime during the junior or senior year, most undergraduate mathematics students first examine the theoretical foundations of the calculus. Such an experience-whether it's called "analysis," "advanced calculus," or whatever introduces the precise definitions of continuity, differentiability, and integrability and establishes the logical relationships among these ideas. A major goal of this first analysis course is surely to consider some standard examples-perhaps of a "pathological" nature-that reveal the superiority of careful analytic reasoning over mere intuition. One such example is the function defined on (0,1] by
Cytological Study and Hybridization in Two Sections of Verbena

The species of Verbena studied here fall into two cytological classes, one wich a basic number n=5 chromosomes, the other wich n=7. The chromosomes of the n=7 dass were approximately half to one sixth as large as those of the n=5 dass. This classification was found to correspond to taxonomical classification. The genus is divided taxonomically into two sections: Glandularia and Verbenaca. The species of the latter seetion are further divided into two series: Pachystachyae and Leptostachyae. All the species with n=5 and n=15 chromosomes belong to the Glandularia section. The polyploid forms of the n=7 dass and V hispida, a diploid form, are classified under Pachystachyae, and the other diploid species under Leptostachyae of the Verbenaca section.Hybridization was attempted between all the species under investigation. Hybrids were obtained, first between the species with n=5 chromosomes and between the species wich n=5 and n=15 chromosomes; secondly, between any two species wich n=7 chromosomes and between the species with n=7 and n=14 chromosomes, but not between n=7 and n=21, nor between n=14 and n=21 chromosomal species. Hybrids were not obtained from crossing species of the two classes referred to above with a basic difference of n=5 and n=7 chromosomes. In all Gases the hybrid plants were intermediate in general characteristics between their parent plants.A diploid and a hexaploid species in Glandularia section were crossed resulting in a tetraploid hybrid which was highly sterile. In the section Verbenaca successful Grosses were made between a diploid and two tetraploid species. In one Gase (V. hispida×V. bonariensis) the hybrid plants were triploid while in another (V. hispida×V. litoralis) only pentaploid hybrids were obtained, a total of five plants, two of which resembled closely the female parent and three the male parent.Hybrids were obtained between V hybrida and V. erinoides each with n=5 chromosomes. The chromosomes in the former are somewhat Tonger than in the latter. These differences could be observed both in root-tip sections and meiotic preparations.Suggestions are presented as to the mode of origin of tetraploid and hexaploid species.Two types of Gell size differences are presented, in one of which increase in volume appears to be physical, in the Sense Navaschin has described, and the other genetical.
Endogenous neurotrophic factors enhance neurite growth by bag cell neurons of Aplysia.

Mechanisms that regulate neurite outgrowth are phylogenetically conserved, including the signaling molecules involved. Here, we describe neurotrophic effects on isolated bag cell neurons (BCNs) of substrate-bound growth factors endogenous to the sea slug Aplysia californica. Sheath cells dissociated from the pleural-visceral connectives of the Aplysia CNS and arterial cells dissociated from the anterior aorta enhance neurite outgrowth when compared to controls, i.e., BCNs grown in defined medium alone. In addition, the substrate remaining after sheath cells or arterial cells are killed significantly enhances growth, relative to all other conditions tested. For instance, primary neurites are more numerous and greater in length for BCNs cultured on substrate produced by arterial cells. These results suggest that sheath and arterial cells produce growth-promoting factors, some of which are found in the substrates produced by these cell types. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), we found that Aplysia collagen-like peptides are produced by dissociated arterial cells, and therefore likely contribute to the observed growth effects. Collagen-like peptides and other factors produced by sheath and arterial cells likely influence neurite growth in the Aplysia CNS during development, learning and memory, and regeneration after injury.
Hybrid Extrinsic Silicon Focal Plane Architecture

Large-area focal planes require mechanical assembly techniques which must be compatible with optical alignment, minimum deadspace, and cryogenic requirements in order to achieve optimum performance. Hybrid extrinsic silicon has been found particularly suitable for such an application. It will be shown that by choosing a large-area extrinsic silicon detector array which is hybrid-mated to a multiplicity of multiplexers a very cost-effective and high-density focal plane module can be assembled. Other advantages of this approach are inherent optical alignment and excellent performance.
Feature extraction algorithms for constrained global optimization I. Mathematical foundation

Nonconvex mixed integer nonlinear programming problems arise quite frequently in engineering decision problems, in general, and in chemical process design synthesis and process scheduling applications, in particular. These problems are characterized by high dimensionality and multiple local optimal solutions. In this work, a novel approach is developed for determining the global optimum in nonlinear continuous and discrete domains. The mathematical foundations of the feature extraction algorithm are presented and the properties of the algorithm discussed in detail. The algorithm uses a partition and search strategy in which the problem domain is successively partitioned and a statistical approximation approach is used to characterize the objective function values and the constraint feasibility over a partition. Specifically, the general joint distribution function representing the objective function values is relaxed to a separable form and approximated using an expansion in terms of Bernstein functions. The coefficients of the expansion are determined by solving a small linear program. Feasibility is established by computing upper and lower bounds for the inequality constraint functions, while equality constraints are explicitly or numerically eliminated. Estimates of the volume averaged values of objective function and constraint feasibility are used to select efficient partitions for further investigation. These are refined successively so as to focus the search on the most promising decision regions. An alternative, constant resolution partitioning strategy is also developed using a suitably modified genetic search algorithm. Illustrative examples are used to demonstrate the key computational features of the method.
Rhinitis associated with pesticide use among private pesticide applicators in the agricultural health study.

Farmers commonly experience rhinitis but the risk factors are not well-characterized. The aim of this study was to analyze cross-sectional data on rhinitis in the past year and pesticide use from 21,958 Iowa and North Carolina farmers in the Agricultural Health Study, enrolled 1993–7, to evaluate pesticide predictors of rhinitis. Polytomous and logistic regression models were used to assess association between pesticide use and rhinitis while controlling for demographics and farm-related exposures. Sixty-seven % of farmers reported current rhinitis and 39% reported three or more rhinitis episodes. The herbicides glyphosate [Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.09, 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) = 1.05–1.13] and petroleum oil (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.05–1.19) were associated with current rhinitis and increased rhinitis episodes. Of the insecticides, 4 organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, diazinon, dichlorvos, and malathion), carbaryl and use of permethrin on animals were predictors of current rhinitis. Diazinon was significant in the overall polytomous model and was associated with an elevated OR of 13+ rhinitis episodes (13+ episodes OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.09–1.38). The fungicide captan was also a significant predictor of rhinitis. Use of petroleum oil, malathion, permethrin and the herbicide metolachlor were significant in exposure-response polytomous models. Specific pesticides may contribute to rhinitis in farmers; agricultural activities did not explain these findings.
An investigation of the empirical distribution of bond returns

Abstract This is a study of the distribution of bond returns. We demonstrate the use of bootstrap procedures to provide statistical inferences on the estimated characteristic components of the empirical distribution of bond returns. It is found that the mixture of stable distributions hypothesis provides a more accurate description of the empirical distribution of bond returns. The results imply that (1) the bond portfolio applications studies have to consider more than mean and variance and (2) the bond market seasonal effects studies need to incorporate tests that are robust to nonnormality and heteroskedasticity.
Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Eyelids: A Long-Term Follow-up Study

A total of 273 basal cell carcinomas involving the eyelids, treated surgically and confirmed pathologically, were reviewed. This is a disease of the Caucasian race, with no sex predilection. It occurs most frequently in the sixth decade and predominantly involves the lower lids. The clinical diagnosis was correct in 60% of these cases. The surgical procedure in 80% of the cases was simple excision. Exenteration was required in eight patients. Follow-up information was obtained on 209 patients. Complications, excluding recurrences, were noted in 18%. The recurrence rate was 12%. One half of those patients requiring exenteration developed subsequent recurrence. There was a tumor death rate of 2%.
Using a New Zealand Performance Specification to Evaluate U.S. Chip Seal Performance

This paper reports the results of a chip seal research project in Texas where the researchers are using both quantitative and qualitative means to evaluate chip seal performance on rural roads. The team is making specific use of the Transit New Zealand (TNZ) T/3 “sand circle” test to measure the change in average texture depth over time and applying those measurements to the TNZ P/17 performance specification for allowable surface texture deterioration over the first year of chip seal performance. The results demonstrate the value of quantitatively characterizing the preseal surface condition as a benchmark against which to compare new chip seal performance. Those roads that had poor preseal surface conditions as exhibited by low macrotexture as measured by the T/3 sand circle test showed early loss of macrotexture and premature flushing after a new seal had been applied and failed the specified P/17 1-year texture loss performance criteria. Thus, the paper concludes that not only is having a quantitative metric essential to be able to accurately assess the performance of new seals but also that the use of the TNZ T/3 sand circle test furnishes an easy, cost-effective means to quantitatively characterize preseal surface texture.
Selective vascular permeability to digoxin and the inhibition of Na+, K+ adenosine triphosphatase in the brain stem.

Abstract The purpose of the present investigation was to provide evidence that the area postrema served as a portal of entry into the caudal medulla for cardiac glycosides. In [studies utilizing] young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, indicator-dilution experiments suggested that digoxin, at cardiotoxic doses of 3 mg/kg, did not cross the blood-brain barrier. Assays of [3H]digoxin uptake, however, demonstrated significantly higher concentrations of digoxin in the brain stem compared with the cerebral hemisphere. In addition, microchemical assays of sodium-potassium activated adenosine triphosphatase (Na+,K+ATPase) activity, after intramuscular injection of digoxin (3 mg/kg), showed significant inhibition only in the brain stem. Finally, microchemical assays of Na+,K+ATPase activity were carried out in serial frozen sections of medulla in digoxin-treated rats. Only sections of medulla at the level of the area postrema showed significant inhibition of Na+,K+ATPase activity. Inhibition of Na+,K+ATPase activity has been used as a marker of cardiac glycoside binding to plasma membrane-bound proteins, and neurons possess a relatively high density of high-affinity receptors for cardiac glycosides with Na+,K+ATPase activity. Therefore, these studies suggest that the modified blood-brain barrier in area postrema serves as a portal of entry for cardiac glycosides into the caudal medulla, allowing them to bind to Na+,K+ATPase on the plasma membrane of neurons which, at least in part, play an important role in chronotropic regulation of cardiac function.
Admissible Orders of Jordan Loops

A commutative loop is Jordan if it satisfies the identity x2(yx) = (x2y)x. Using an amalgam construction and its generalizations, we prove that a nonassociative Jordan loop of order n exists if and only if n≧ 6 and n≠ 9. We also consider whether powers of elements in Jordan loops are well-defined, and we construct an infinite family of finite simple nonassociative Jordan loops. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 103–118, 2009