cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function in pubertal male and female siblings with glucocorticoid-treated nonsalt-wasting 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia

We report pubertal maturation and dynamic studies of gonadotropin and gonadal hormone secretion in long term glucocorticoid-treated siblings with nonsalt-wasting classic adrenal and gonadal 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta HSD) deficiency. The 18-yr-old female siblings spontaneously developed thelarche and menarche at 10 and 12 yr, respectively, and manifested irregular menses, hirsutism, and polycystic ovaries at 17 yr. The 16-yr-old male sibling spontaneously developed secondary sex characteristics at age 11 yr and exhibited Tanner IV-V pubic hair, a 6.5 x 3.0-cm surgically repaired penis, and enlarged nonnodular testes. Overnight (2200-0700 h) plasma gonadotropin (every 20 min) and gonadal steroid levels (every 2 h) under ACTH adrenal suppression revealed the following. In the male sibling, there were overall normal Tanner V male LH (3-21 mIU/mL) and FSH (1.2-13 mIU/mL) levels, normal peak frequency and amplitude of LH (70 +/- 62 min and 15 +/- 3 mIU/mL, respectively) and FSH (65 +/- 28 min and 13 +/- 3 mIU/mL), and low normal Tanner V testosterone (T) levels (11.4-17.9 nmol/L). In the female sibling, there were normal follicular phase range LH (10-28 mIU/mL) and FSH (5.1-17.2 mIU/mL) levels, normal peak frequency and amplitude of LH (96 +/- 17 min and 22 +/- 4.5 mIU/mL, respectively) and FSH (62 +/- 27 min, 13 +/- 4 mIU/mL), and early follicular phase estradiol (E2) levels (100-170 pmol/L). The LH-releasing hormone-stimulated LH response was in the normal adult range in the male and normal for the early follicular phase in the female. In contrast, ACTH and adrenal delta 5-steroid responses to CRH administration were elevated in each sibling. Gonadal suppression via Norlutin administration (30 mg/day for 3 days) after prolonged adrenal suppression by dexamethasone resulted in suppression of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and E2 in the female and DHEA and T in the male. Gonadal stimulation via hCG administration (5000 IU/day for 3 days, im) during continuous adrenal suppression resulted in a low E2 response in the female (200 pmol/L; control, 295-660 pmol/L) and a low T response in the male (15.3 nmol/L; control, 17-39 nmol/L), whereas delta 5-17-hydroxypregnenolone and DHEA levels rose 2- to 4.7-fold in each sibling. In conclusion, despite partial gonadal 3 beta HSD deficiency, the dynamics of gonadotropin and gonadal hormone secretion in these siblings indicate the absence of increased LH secretion, in contrast to the markedly increased ACTH secretion resulting from adrenal 3 beta HSD deficiency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Focusing Attention on Substance Abuse in the Workplace: A Comparison of Three Workplace Interventions

This research examined aspects of adult work life that influence alcohol risk perception (ARP) and consumption in three different worksite interventions. Health-attitude survey and self-reported alcohol consumption data were compared across three worksites included in a common funding initiative. Among at-risk drinkers, two studies showed decreases in alcohol consumption in the intervention groups, although the numbers in each group were small. These changes were seen with no change in ARP, which was quite high at baseline. Findings across worksites suggest that worksite characteristics influence drinking norms and behavior. ARP appeared to be an influencing factor only when interventions helped focus attention on the personal significance of risky behaviors. Interventions that focus on health promotion show high participation as well as greater improvement in drinking risk than those focusing on punitive sanctions.
Relating Passive 37-GHz Scattering to Radar Profiles in Strong Convection

Abstract Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager and precipitation radar measurements are examined for strong convective systems. Storms having similar values of minimum 37-GHz polarization-corrected temperature (PCT) are grouped together, and their vertical profiles of maximum radar reflectivity are composited. Lower 37-GHz PCT corresponds to stronger radar profiles (high reflectivity through a deep layer), but characteristic profiles for a given 37-GHz PCT are different for deep tropical ocean, deep tropical land, subtropical ocean, and subtropical land regions. Tropical oceanic storms have a sharper decrease of reflectivity just above the freezing level than storms from other regions with the same brightness temperature. Storms from subtropical land regions have the slowest decrease of reflectivity with height and the greatest mixed-phase-layer ice water content (IWC). Linear fits of 37-GHz PCT versus IWC for each region are used to scale the brightness temperatures. Counts of storm...
Fluctuations in the statistical model of relativistic heavy ion collisions

Abstract Fluctuations in the statistical model of heavy ion collisions are studied. The role of statistics, relativity, constraints, decaying resonances and branching processes are investigated using this model. Also studied are thermodynamic properties related to these fluctuations with specific concerns centered around the behavior of the specific heat.
A Comparison of Several Component-Testing Plans For A Parallel System

We consider a parallel (1-out-of-n:G) system of n components with constant failure rates and treat three different classes of component testing procedures all of which guarantee that the given consumer and producer risks are not exceeded. It is necessary to impose certain restrictions on the magnitude of the unknown failure rates for guaranteeing the producer risk. The three classes of component test procedures use Type-I censoring and use decision rules based on: A) the total number of component failures during the testing periods, B) the number of failures for each individual component, and C) the maximum likelihood estimate of system reliability. Based on the requirement that both the consumer and producer risks lie within specified levels, class A plans exhibit lower testing costs in the selected numerical examples.
The PIRLA project: Paleoecological investigations of recent lake acidification

The PIRLA project is a broadly interdisciplinary paleolimnological investigation of five to fifteen comparable watershed/lake systems from each of four low-alkalinity regions in North America that are currently receiving acid deposition. The areas are the Adirondack Mountains (N.Y.), northern New England, northern Great Lakes states, and northern Florida. The primary objective of the study is to provide a detailed reconstruction of the recent acidification histories of a representative suite of lakes from each of the regions. The study will increase our understanding of the timing, rates, and magnitude of acidification (and other chemical changes), and the regional and inter-regional patterns of lake acidification.
Resonances in helium atoms associated with the N= 4 and N=5 He + thresholds

Some doubly excited autoionising states of helium atoms converging on theN=4 andN=5 He+ thresholds are calculated by use of a method of complex-coordinates. States withL≧2 and with parities of (−1) L and (−1)L+1 are calculated by using products of Slater-orbital type wave functions with expansion lengths up to 319 terms. Resonance parameters (both resonance energy and autoinoisation width) are calculated for states with angular momentum up toL=7 forN=4 resonances, andL=8 forN=5 resonances.
Analyzing proximity matrices: The assessment of internal variation in combinatorial structure ☆

Abstract A data analysis strategy is discussed for evaluating the degree to which a subset D of a larger object set S satisfies a particular algebraic property. Based on a set measure f(D) and a proximity function on S × S, two separate evaluation tasks, referred to as confirmatory and exploratory, are considered. In a confirmatory task the subset D is identified a priori and f(D) is compared against the distribution of f(·) over all subsets containing the same number of objects. The exploratory task, on the other hand, treats f(·) as an objective function to be optimized over all subsets of a given size. Examples of these two notions include the assessment of symmetry, cluster compactness, and the extent to which D satisfies the error-free conditions for a hierarchical model or a unidimensional scale.
Newer approaches to the radiolabeling of monoclonal antibodies by use of metal chelates

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) radiolabeled by use of metal chelators are being investigated in the laboratory for use in clinical trials. 111In is presently employed for diagnostic scintigraphy, but its applications are limited by substantive and persistant uptake of radiometal in the liver. Much current research is focused on performing cancer therapy with 90Y and 212Bi chelate-linked mAbs. This report chronicles the development and evaluation of chelating agents for 111In-radioimmunoimaging and 90Y-and 212Bi-radioimmunotherapy.
Reducing infant immunization distress through distraction.

Infant procedural distress is largely understudied, and there is a dearth of empirically supported interventions in the child health psychology literature. This study examined nurse-directed distraction for reducing infant immunization distress. Ninety infants and their parents were randomly assigned to a distraction condition (i.e., nurses used stimuli to divert infants' attention) or a typical care condition. Outcome measures were an observational scale, parent and nurse ratings, and infant heart rate. Results indicated that infants engaged in distraction and that distraction reduced their behavioral distress; however, ratings and heart rate were inconclusive. Analyses of procedural phases indicated that infants exhibited elevated distress immediately prior to and during an injection, but this distress was fleeting.
Short sale restrictions, differences of opinion, and single-country, closed-end fund discount

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to study the closed-end fund discount in Miller's (1977) framework. Miller's theory states that in the simultaneous presence of (1) short sale restrictions and (2) dispersion of investors' opinions, securities become overvalued. We show that discounts of single-country, closed-end funds are related to Miller's two conditions. Consistent with theoretical predictions, we find that neither dispersion of investor opinion nor short sale restrictions alone are positively related to the discount. However, when both conditions exist simultaneously, fund discounts increase.
Mineralization of Bacteria

A variety of viable and non-viable bacteria became mineralized with hydroxyapatite when implanted in dialysis bags in the peritoneal cavities of rats. The microscopic pattern of mineral deposition appeared analogous to that in the formation of oral calculus. Since nonviable organisms were mineralized at an accelerated rate, bacterial metabolic processes may not be essential for mineralization.
Dynamic active-site protection by the M. tuberculosis protein tyrosine phosphatase PtpB lid domain.

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein tyrosine phosphatase PtpB shows resistance to the oxidative conditions that prevail within an infected host macrophage, but the mechanism of this molecular adaptation is unknown. Crystal structures of PtpB revealed previously that a closed, two-helix lid covers the active site. By measuring single-molecule Forster-type resonance energy transfer to probe the dynamics of two helices that constitute the lid, we obtained direct evidence for large, spontaneous opening transitions of PtpB with the closed form of both helices favored ~3:1. Despite similar populations of conformers, the two helices move asynchronously as demonstrated by different opening and closing rates under our experimental conditions. Assuming that lid closure excludes oxidant, the rates of opening and closing quantitatively accounted for the slow observed rate of oxidative inactivation. Increasing solvent viscosity using glycerol but not PEG8000 resulted in higher rates of oxidative inactivation due to an increase in the population of open conformers. These results establish that the rapid conformational gating of the PtpB lid constitutes a reversible physical blockade that transiently masks the active site and retards oxidative inactivation.
Foliar herbivory triggers local and long distance defense responses in maize

Many studies have documented the induction of belowground defenses in plants in response to aboveground herbivory and vice versa, but the genes and signaling molecules mediating systemic induction are not well understood. We performed comparative microarray analysis on maize whorl and root tissues from the insect resistant inbred Mp708 in response to foliar feeding by fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) caterpillars. Although Mp708 has elevated jasmonic acid (JA) levels prior to herbivory, genes involved in JA biosynthesis were up-regulated in whorls in response to fall armyworm feeding. Alternatively, genes possibly involved in regulating ethylene (ET) perception and signaling were up-regulated in roots following foliar herbivory. Transcript levels of genes encoding proteins involved in direct defenses against herbivores were enhanced both in roots and leaves, but transcriptional factors and genes involved in various biosynthetic pathways were selectively down-regulated in the whorl. The results indicate that foliar herbivory by fall armyworm changes root gene expression pathways suggesting profound long distance signaling. Tissue specific induction and suppression of JA and ET signaling pathway genes provides a clue to their possible roles in signaling between the two distant tissue types that eventually triggers defense responses in the roots in response to foliar herbivory.
Evidence for the Neoplastic Transformation of Von-Meyenburg Complexes

Von-Meyenburg complexes (VMC) are seen frequently in the liver and are largely considered to be innocuous, with only 11 cases reported in the literature of neoplastic transformation of VMCs. The authors report three cases of cholangiocarcinoma, each occurring in a background of fibrosis and nodularity that was reported initially as micronodular cirrhosis. Although the livers showed cirrhosis, the central veins were often preserved, and regenerative activity was patchy and focal. Histologic examination revealed many VMCs, and a gradual transition from VMCs to hyperplastic or adenomatous lesions and cholangiocarcinoma. The adenomatous lesions consisted of extensive replacement of the parenchyma by tumor-like nodules of ductular proliferations without obvious features of malignancy. All three patients were older than 60 years of age and had portal hypertension. Computed tomographic scans showed multiple, small renal cysts in one patient. Immunohistochemical staining showed positivity for epithelial membrane antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, and keratins (AE1/AE3 and CAM5.2) in tumor cells, consistent with cholangiocarcinoma. The pattern of fibrosis and nodularity in these cases is not typical of either congenital hepatic fibrosis or usual cirrhosis. The authors propose that these patients represent another aspect in the spectrum of ductal plate malformations that may be modified by other factors such as alcohol, drugs, or infection. To their knowledge, neoplastic transformation of VMCs in the background of such changes has never been reported before.
Tumor Formation Dependent on Proteoglycan Biosynthesis

The role proteoglycans play in tumor formation was examined by measuring the tumorigenicity of proteoglycan-deficient Chinese hamster ovary cell mutants in nude mice. When 10(7) cells were injected subcutaneously, mutants with less than about 15% of the wild-type level of proteoglycan synthesis did not produce tumors. Mutants defective in the synthesis of heparan sulfate proteoglycans also did not form tumors, whereas mutants with altered chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans were tumorigenic. Tumors arose from mixtures of wild-type and nontumorigenic mutant cells and contained both cell types, suggesting that wild-type cell proteoglycans enabled mutant cells to survive. The failure of heparan sulfate-deficient mutants to form tumors depended on the ability of the host to mount a B cell-mediated immune reaction.
Neighbourhood economic deprivation explains racial/ethnic disparities in overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in the USA

Background Low-income and some racial and ethnic subpopulations are more likely to suffer from obesity. Inequities in the physical and social environment may contribute to disparities in paediatric obesity, but there is little empirical evidence to date. This study explored whether neighbourhood-level socioeconomic factors attenuate racial and ethnic disparities in obesity among youth in the USA and whether individual-level socioeconomic status (SES) interacts with neighbourhood deprivation. Methods This analysis used data from 17 100 youth ages 2–18 years participating in the 2001–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey linked to census tract-level socioeconomic characteristics. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to examine neighbourhood deprivation in association with odds of obesity (age-specific and sex-specific body mass index percentile ≥95). Results The unadjusted prevalence of obesity was 15% among non-Hispanic white children and 21% among non-Hispanic black and Mexican-American children. Adjustment for individual-level SES neighbourhood deprivation and the interaction between these two factors resulted in a 74% attenuation of the disparity in obesity between non-Hispanic black and non-Hispanic white children and a 49% attenuation of the disparity between Mexican-American and non-Hispanic white children. There was a significant interaction between individual-level SES and neighbourhood deprivation where higher individual-level income was protective for children living in low-deprivation neighbourhoods, but not for children who lived in high-deprivation areas. Conversely, area deprivation was associated with higher odds of obesity, but only among children who were above the poverty threshold. Conclusions Future research on disparities in obesity and other health outcomes should examine broader contextual factors and social determinants of inequities.
Surveys and Mesoamerican Archaeology: The Emerging Macroregional Paradigm

This article is a review of regional archaeological surveys in Mexico, emphasizing published full-coverage surveys from the last 20 years. The geographic focus is non-Maya Mexico terminating at the Tropic of Cancer. The temporal focus is the 3000-year period from the earliest settled villages to the Spanish conquest (A.D. 1521), with emphasis on long-term evolutionary trajectories. The main argument is that explanations of regional-scale settlement patterns are proving to be incomplete now that archaeologists are confronted with site distributions on the macroregional scale. Implications of the emerging macroregional paradigm are discussed for current debates in Mesoamerican archaeology.
Müllerian adenosarcoma of the uterus with pure angiosarcoma: case report.

We report a case of mullerian adenosarcoma of the uterus with benign endometrioid epithelial component and histologically pure angiosarcoma. This seemingly unique sarcomatous ingredient, among uterine and extrauterine adenosarcomas reported in the English literature, is considered to be a homologous component of the tumor. The patient, a 71-year-old woman with a several-month history of intermittent vaginal bleeding, was found at abdominal hysterectomy to have a large polypoid intrauterine tumor with superficial extension into the myometrium. The patient was treated with 6,000 rad of adjuvant radiation but died a few months after of what clinically appeared to be massive abdominal bleeding. The literature regarding uterine tumors classified as angiosarcoma or malignant hemangioendothelioma is briefly reviewed.
The preparation and properties of some tertiary phosphine and phosphine chalcogenide adducts of BI3 and BBr3

Abstract The adducts of BI3 and BBr3 with various tertiary phosphines and their chalcogenide derivatives are described. The proton and boron-11 NMR spectra of many of these compounds are reported for the first time. Although the methyl proton-phosphorus-31 coupling constants are nearly identical in the (CH3)3PBX3 (X = F, Cl, Br, I) series, the boron-phosphorus coupling constant, JBP, is anomalously low for (CH3)3PBI3 (116 Hz) relative to other members of the series. The phosphine adducts of BBr3 and BI3 are white, air and water insensitive solids, whereas the phosphine chalcogenide adducts are quite moisture sensitive. The BI3 adducts with phosphine chalcogenides lose iodine fairly readily to form intractable material.
Effect of Oxidation Agent on Pickling of 430 Stainless Steel

430 stainless steel is used as raw material and pickling in HCl-based electrolytes is adopted, and the effect of oxidation agent on removal behavior of the oxide layer on stainless steel is systematically studied; study found that the oxide layer of stainless steel after heat treatment in the lab is composed of iron oxide and chromium oxide, and outer oxide layer has dense structure while inner layer has multihole structure; with the increasing oxidation agent addition, corrosion potential of stainless steel after heat treatment increased; under 1.0% oxidation agent addtion condition, only few inner oxide remained and removal tendency of oxide layer is obvious when pickled for 200s; oxide on surface totally got removed, and a smooth surface obtained after pickled for 400s.
Targeting the eIF4A RNA helicase blocks translation of the MUC1-C oncoprotein

The oncogenic MUC1 C-terminal subunit (MUC1-C) subunit is aberrantly overexpressed in most human breast cancers by mechanisms that are not well understood. The present studies demonstrate that stimulation of non-malignant MCF-10A cells with epidermal growth factor (EGF) or heregulin (HRG) results in marked upregulation of MUC1-C translation. Growth factor-induced MUC1-C translation was found to be mediated by PI3KAKT, and not by MEKERK1/2, signaling. We also show that activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) pathway decreases tumor suppressor programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4), an inhibitor of the eIF4A RNA helicase, and contributes to the induction of MUC1-C translation. In concert with these results, treatment of growth factor-stimulated MCF-10A cells with the eIF4A RNA helicase inhibitors, silvestrol and CR-1-31-B, blocked increases in MUC1-C abundance. The functional significance of the increase in MUC1-C translation is supported by the demonstration that MUC1-C, in turn, forms complexes with EGF receptor (EGFR) and promotes EGFR-mediated activation of the PI3KAKT pathway and the induction of growth. Compared with MCF-10A cells, constitutive overexpression of MUC1-C in breast cancer cells was unaffected by EGF stimulation, but was blocked by inhibiting PI3KAKT signaling. The overexpression of MUC1-C in breast cancer cells was also inhibited by blocking eIF4A RNA helicase activity with silvestrol and CR-1-31-B. These findings indicate that EGF-induced MUC1-C expression is mediated by the PI3KAKT pathway and the eIF4A RNA helicase, and that this response promotes EGFR signaling in an autoinductive loop. The findings also indicate that targeting the eIF4A RNA helicase is a novel approach for blocking MUC1-C overexpression in breast cancer cells.
Reversibility of X irradiation-induced effects in dry biological systems†

The dry bacterial spore has revealed that there are many ways in which this cell responds to radiation. Even the single biological effect measured here is accomplished in a number of different ways. The fast, oxygen-independent portion can be subdivided into two effects. The fast oxygen dependent portion appears at the present time to be a single entity, and the long-lived free radical class may be divisible into three different subunits, a possible total of 6 currently recognized components of radiation-induced effects that precede and lead to biological damage. It has been revealed also that some of these elements may act independently and behave differently under different circumstances, and thus contribute to the biological effect to different degrees at various times. Fortunately one can isolate them to measure their independent behaviors, thus allowing the study of their interactions with one another when they act at the same time. It is shown that with the knowledge of the independent behavior of the components of radiation damage, one can explain the response of a population of cells in which the biological effect is the result of the actions of all.
LiMPETS: Long-term Monitoring Program and Experiential Training for Students

We have developed a program for middle school, high schools and other volunteer groups to monitor rocky intertidal, sandy beach and offshore areas of the five west coast National Marine Sanctuaries - Olympic Coast, Cordell Bank, Gulf of the Farallones, Monterey Bay and Channel Islands. LiMPETS, Long-term Monitoring Program and Experiential Training for Students, is a collaborative monitoring effort with staff from the five west coast marine Sanctuaries partnering with the California Sea Grant Program, the Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association, and University of California, Santa Cruz researchers. The intertidal and offshore habitats of the west coast Sanctuaries are among the most diverse and productive of any region in the world. Despite their ecological significance and protected status, these habitats, along with sandy beaches, are being increasingly impacted by human activities (directly by harvesting and trampling, indirectly through pollution and litter). In addition, there are dramatic geological and climatic disruptions along Sanctuary shores (earthquakes, severe storms, El Nino events, global warming) that could generate change in the biota. Awareness by the local communities of these phenomena and how they influence these habitats and their inhabitants is vital if these ecosystems are to continue receiving the protection they deserve. The Sanctuaries and partners are establishing a rigorous program to monitor the abundance and distribution of major intertidal biota, sand crabs, and selected offshore species to increase awareness and stewardship of these ecosystems. Protocols to monitor rocky intertidal, sandy beach and offshore areas have been established and used by numerous school groups to date. There are various procedures used to collect data, including but not limited to transects, random quadrat counts, total organism counts, sex determination and size measurements. Several sites are selected within each Sanctuary for the rocky intertidal and sandy shore monitoring. Species were chosen to be monitored if they had certain characteristics, namely: 1. Ecological importance, 2. Easily recognized, studied and identified in the field, 3. Sensitivity to disturbance, pollution or environmental changes. Data are collected so that long-term changes can be followed by interested groups working with the Sanctuaries' education staff. Protocols, species, site descriptions, directions and more are currently posted on the web. All of the information in the LiMPETS website limpets.noaa.gov is public and free to be used. However, please credit the National Marine Sanctuary Program when information or photographs are used by other websites or in publications.
Primate Natal Coats: A Preliminary Analysis of Distribution and Function

Pelage coloration of infants was compiled for 138 species of primates. Three functional hypotheses—alloparental, infant defense, and paternity cloak—for primate natal coats are tested. Neonatal pelage con- trasted with adult pelage in over half of the species examined. Subtle or inconspicuous contrast was more common than flamboyant contrast. Natal coats began to change at 5.7 weeks and disappeared by 18.0 weeks postpar- tum on average. The first body part to lose natal coloration was the head and/or dorsum in the majority of species. Functional analyses provided no support for the only published hypothesis—alloparental—while providing partial support for two new hypotheses—infant defense and paternity cloak. A significant association between testes weight and natal coat contrast supports a link between mating system and infant contrast. This is discussed in terms of infanticide avoidance. Natal coats are proposed to be categorically differen- tiated into inconspicuous and flamboyant types, not differentiated by a continuous gradation, such as color. Subspecific differentiation and pat- terns of shared ancestry are assessed. Am J Phys Anthropol 104:47-70, 1997. r 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Using net conferencing to facilitate cancer care and education

ABSTRACT Web-based technologies in general, and Net Conferencing in specific, have provided new opportunities to enhance communication among health care professionals, human services providers, and clients and patients in the field of oncology. This article explores the use of Net Conferencing to enhance cancer education and training, planning, and strategic planning, and examines potential benefits and costs related to its use. Recommendations for future studies are presented, with a focus on formal evaluation research on the use of Net Conferencing in comparison to other forms of communication technology.
A detailed single molecule spectroscopy study of the vibronic states and energy transfer pathways of the conjugated polymer MEH-PPV

Abstract The low energy onset of the optically accessible density of electronic states (OADOS) of the conjugated polymer MEH-PPV has been investigated by low temperature fluorescence single molecule spectroscopy (SMS). The first extensive set of high signal-to-noise SMS data have been acquired for MEH-PPV samples as a function of molecular weight confirming the previously reported bimodal energy gap distribution . These data have been acquired under sample and radiation conditions that inhibit photophysical dynamics that have distorted previous SMS studies. A molecule by molecule vibronic analysis has yielded an experimentally determined spectral density of the S 0 –S 1 energy gaps for the individual chromophores for MEH-PPV. The SMS data has also led to new insights on the energy transfer pathways for conjugated polymers, and on the molecular nature of the “blue” and “red” sites of conjugated polymers. Finally, a combined analysis of the new SMS data with the previously obtained bulk absorption and emission data for MEH-PPV has offered clear evidence that the low energy onset of the OADOS for MEH-PPV, in analogy to the emission spectral density, confirms the existence of a bimodal energy gap distribution .
Role of Smad4 on TGF-β–induced extracellular matrix stimulation in mesangial cells

Role of Smad4 on TGF-β–induced extracellular matrix stimulation in mesangial cells. Background The best characterized signaling pathway employed by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is the Smad pathway; however, its role in matrix production in mesangial cells is unclear. We focused on Smad4, as Smad4 is essential for the activation of Smad-dependent target genes. Methods To investigate the function of Smad4 in extracellular matrix (ECM) production, we generated several stably transfected mesangial cell lines (MMC) that have a deletion in the linker region (Smad4ΔM4: Δ275-322) or have a deletion in MH1 of Smad4 (Smad4N4: Δ1-136). The ECM genes, α1 type I collagen (COL1A1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and fibronectin (FN) were assessed in wild-type mesangial cells and stably transfected Smad4-DN cell lines in the absence and presence of TGF-β. Results As compared to wild-type MMC that had a 10.8-fold stimulation of TGF-β–induced p3TP-Lux activity, MMC stably transfected with Smad4ΔM4 and Smad4N4 had only a 2.0-fold and 1.3-fold stimulation, respectively, indicating that they had dominant-negative effects on TGF-β signaling. Basal and TGF-β–induced COL1A1 expression in Smad4 dominant-negative cells were dramatically reduced to very low levels. The early (2 hours) TGF-β–induced PAI-1 mRNA expression was inhibited; however, the sustained (24 to 48 hours) TGF-β–induced expression was not affected in Smad4 dominant-negative cells. For FN, TGF-β–induced expression was maintained in Smad4-dominant negative cells. Conclusion These results indicate that Smad4 is essential for basal and TGF-β–induced COL1A1 expression, and contributes to the early, but not sustained TGF-β–induced PAI-1 expression in mesangial cells. However, TGF-β–induced FN expression is independent of Smad4. In conclusion, Smad4 has a discriminate effect in mediating specific ECM molecules stimulated by TGF-β in mesangial cells.
Lack of standardization of the journal title data element in databases

The problem of data element representation is more extensive than most perceive. The number of standards (internal, national, and international) is large, but the use of standards within databases is not widespread. The result is a significant lack of standardization both within and across databases. The result of nonstandardization becomes apparent when one attempts an exhaustive search on a particular data element in multiple databases. The journal title element was studied in eight databases, and four measures (“Number of forms of an element in a database,” “Percent retrievability by element form,” “Number of noncontiguous entry points in a sorted list,” and “Percent retrievability by best form of an element”) were developed to show the extent of standardization within a database and some of its implications for searching.
MUSCLE FIBER LENGTH AND MOMENT ARM COORDINATION DURING DORSI- AND PLANTARFLEXION IN THE MOUSE HINDLIMB

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that muscle fiber length and joint moment arm are combined in such a way that maximum muscle force is produced during locomotion. Plantarflexor (soleus, SOL and medial gastrocnemius, MG) and dorsiflexor (extensor digitorum longus, EDL and tibialis anterior, TA) muscle architecture in the mouse was measured along with their associated moment arms. Fiber length varied significantly between muscles ranging from 5.7 ± 0.2 mm (MG) to 7.6 ± 0.2 mm (TA). Plantarflexor moment arms were over twice as large as dorsiflexor moment arms (1.88 ± 0.06 mm vs. 0.84 ± 0.03 mm) suggesting a greater muscle length change with joint angle for plantarflexors compared to dorsiflexors. Using a simple muscle-joint model, the active sarcomere length range in these muscle groups was calculated and proved to be quite similar between functional groups. The active range for dorsiflexors was 2.2-2.4 µm, while the active range for plantarflexors was 2.2-2.5 µm, indicating that both muscle groups operate primarily near the plateau of their length tension-relation. Finally, when calculating force produced by muscles during locomotion, the combination of moment arm and fiber length measured in all muscle groups yielded muscle-joint systems that produced near maximal forces at the velocities modeled. These data indicate that fiber length and moment arm appear to be coordinated to yield the greatest possible force production during locomotion.
Invasive species management restores a plant–pollinator mutualism in Hawaii

The management and removal of invasive species may give rise to unanticipated changes in plant-pollinator mutualisms because they can alter the composition and functioning of plant-pollinator interactions in a variety of ways. To utilize a functional approach for invasive species management, we examined the restoration of plant-pollinator mutualisms following the large-scale removal of an invasive nectar thief and arthropod predator, Vespula pensylvanica. We reduced V. pensylvanica populations in large plots managed over multiple years to examine the response of plant-pollinator mutualisms and the fruit production of a functionally important endemic Hawaiian tree species, Metrosideros polymorpha. To integrate knowledge of the invader's behaviour and the plant's mating system, we determined the efficacy of V. pensylvanica as a pollinator of M. polymorpha and quantified the dependence of M. polymorpha on animal pollination (e.g. level of self-compatibility and pollen limitation). The reduction of V. pensylvanica in managed sites, when compared to unmanaged sites, resulted in a significant increase in the visitation rates of effective bee pollinators (e.g. introduced Apis mellifera and native Hylaeus spp.) and in the fruit production of M. polymorpha. Apis mellifera, following the management of V. pensylvanica, appears to be acting as a substitute pollinator for M. polymorpha, replacing extinct or threatened bird and bee species in our study system. Synthesis and applications. Fruit production of the native M. polymorpha was increased after management of the invasive pollinator predator V. pensylvanica; however, the main pollinators were no longer native but introduced. This research thus demonstrates the diverse impacts of introduced species on ecological function and the ambiguous role they play in restoration. We recommend incorporating ecological function and context into invasive species management as this approach may enable conservation managers to simultaneously minimize the negative and maximize the positive impacts (e.g. taxon substitution) of introduced species. Such novel restoration approaches are needed, especially in highly degraded ecosystems. Fruit production of the native M. polymorpha was increased after management of the invasive pollinator predator V. pensylvanica; however, the main pollinators were no longer native but introduced. This research thus demonstrates the diverse impacts of introduced species on ecological function and the ambiguous role they play in restoration. We recommend incorporating ecological function and context into invasive species management as this approach may enable conservation managers to simultaneously minimize the negative and maximize the positive impacts (e.g. taxon substitution) of introduced species. Such novel restoration approaches are needed, especially in highly degraded ecosystems. © 2012 British Ecological Society.
Pyridine Nucleotide Metabolism in Imaginal Discs of Drosophila melanogaster

The pyridine nucleotide metabolism of imaginal discs of Drosophila melanogaster has been studied in vitro by incubating discs with labeled nicotinic acid in the presence and absence of ecdysterone. The major labeled compounds found within the discs are NAD, NADP, and nicotinic acid. There is preferential uptake of nicotinamide over nicotinic acid, although the Priess-Handler pathway is used exclusively. The presence of ecdysterone produces a small increase in the NADP/NAD ratio, and an increase in NAD synthesis, probably to compensate for increased NAD turnover.
Adaptive Bandwidth Choice for Kernel Regression

Abstract A data-based procedure is introduced for local bandwidth selection for kernel estimation of a regression function at a point. The estimated bandwidth is shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal as an estimator of the (asymptotic) optimal value for minimum mean square estimation. Simulation studies indicate satisfactory behavior of the new bandwidth estimator in finite samples. The findings are improvements over a global bandwidth estimator. The same methodology works for local linear regression and extends easily to weighted local polynomial fits.
Molecular Functions of the SMN Complex

The SMN complex is essential for the biogenesis of spliceosomal small nuclear ribonucleoproteins and likely functions in the assembly, metabolism, and transport of a diverse number of other ribonucleoproteins. Specifically, the SMN complex assembles 7 Sm proteins into a core structure around a highly conserved sequence of ribonucleic acid (RNA) found in small nuclear RNAs. The complex recognizes specific sequences and structural features of small nuclear RNAs and Sm proteins and assembles small nuclear ribonucleoproteins in a stepwise fashion. In addition to the SMN protein, the SMN complex contains 7 additional proteins known as Gemin2-8, each likely to play a role in ribonucleoprotein biogenesis. This review focuses on the current understanding of the mechanism of the role of the SMN complex in small nuclear ribonucleoprotein assembly and considers the relationship of this function to spinal muscular atrophy.
Halomethyl-metal compounds XX. An improved synthesis of phenyl(trihalomethyl)mercury compounds

Abstract The preparation of PhHgCClnBr3−n (n = 0–2) in good yield can be accomplished by the reaction of phenylmercuric chloride, the respective haloform and the tert-butanol monosolvate of commercial, unsolvated potassium tert-butoxide in ca. 1/1/1.4 molar ratio in tetrahydrofuran solution at -25°. This represents a significant improvement over the previous procedure (ref. 7) in that a high speed stirring apparatus is not required, commercial potassium tert-butoxide may be used and large excesses of the haloform are not necessary.
Survey of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator genotypes in primary sclerosing cholangitis

A variety of cholestatic liver diseases appear to primarily affect the biliary epithelium, including cystic fibrosis (CF). CF results from a defect in the chloride channel protein, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Although the majority of CF patients have a genomic deletion in δF508, other mutations of CFTR may result in less severe clinical presentations and outcomes. Recently, CFTR has been shown to be involved in secretin-stimulated choleresis in intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cells. Cholestasis in cystic fibrosis appears to result from defective chloride transport across the biliary epithelium and is the only cholestatic disease of bile ducts for which a cellular defect has been identified. Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a cholestatic disease with histological and cholangiographic features similar to CF. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore whether there is an increased prevalence of CFTR gene mutations in PSC. Nineteen patients with PSC were screened for 32 CFTR mutations. Two patients exhibited mutations in one allele, yielding a carrier rate of 10.6%, not statistically different from the general U.S. population carrier rate of 4%.
Rare event selection of fetal nucleated erythrocytes in maternal blood by flow cytometry

A noninvasive method of prenatal genetic diagnosis requires fetal cell selection from the maternal circulation that allows efficient recovery for analysis by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We have solved several problems that negatively affect the isolation and FISH analysis of fetal nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs) in the maternal circulation. The use of glycophorin A (Gly A) antibodies (Abs) for selection is problematic because all five monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) tested caused agglutination of non-nRBCs, thereby changing both light scatter and fluorescence properties of cells by flow cytometry. Because the number of non-nRBCs is variable after Ficoll separation, isolation of nRBCs could be compromised severely by agglutination of nucleated cells with nonnucleated cells, causing them to shift light scatter and fluorescence properties. Several methods for the removal of unwanted maternal white blood cells with CD45 mAbs were also evaluated. Magnetic bead depletion was found to interfere with FISH detection because of residual bead debris after sorting. By contrast, removal of CD45+ cells by a panning technique eliminated this problem. Positive selection methods based on CD71, CD45, and LDS-751 staining and detection of fetal cells by gamma globin expression were also analyzed. Fetal cells were detected by FISH in 11 of 19 (CD71 selection) and in 13 of 15 (gamma selection) random pregnancies. These data support the possibility of a noninvasive method for isolation and analysis of fetal cells for prenatal diagnosis.
A Look Between the Cardiomyocytes: The Extracellular Matrix in Heart Failure

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the heart dynamically interacts with various cellular components of the myocardium, including the myocytes and connective tissue cells. With the development and progression of heart failure, left ventricular (LV) myocardial remodeling occurs. The progression of LV remodeling is accompanied by alterations in the structure and function of the ECM that occur after injury resulting from neurohormonal activation, changes in LV loading conditions, and alterations in myocardial perfusion and metabolism and is secondary to a host of nonmyocyte signaling pathways that affect repair and remodeling of the myocardium as a whole. This article attempts to review some of these processes and their interactions and to provide a focus to the often overlooked contribution of the ECM to the development and progression of heart failure and thereby its potential role as a target for therapy for heart failure.
SYSTEMATIC WONDER: THE RHETORIC OF SECULAR RELIGIONS

"Whatever the truth about these deep conceptual issues, the universe must have come into existence somehow, and quantum physics offers the only branch of science in which the concept of an event without a cause makes sense.... For millenia mankind has believed that nothing can come out of nothing. Today we can argue that everything has come out of nothing. Nobody needs to pay for the universe. It is the ultimate free lunch."Paul Davies, Superforce: The Search for a Grand Unified Theory of Nature (pp. 203, 205).
Provision of step-level public goods: effects of inequality in resources

Dans le cadre d'un jeu de dilemme concernant 12 groupes de 5 joueurs sont examines les determinants des choix de donner ses gains monetaires pour contribuer a un gain collectif
Integrated control of silicon-photonic micro-resonator wavelength via balanced homodyne locking

We present a new method for active control of optical micro-resonator modulator and filter wavelength that is insensitive to environmental and optical perturbations and readily integrated on-chip. Experimental results demonstrating precise, long-term filter locking are shown.