cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reproductive Biology of the Cownose Ray in the Charlotte Harbor Estuarine System, Florida

Abstract The Cownose Ray Rhinoptera bonasus is an abundant species in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico, but its reproductive biology is not completely known because of the difficulty of obtaining year-round samples in large portions of its range where the species is migratory. To address this knowledge gap, Cownose Rays were studied in a subtropical estuarine system where rays are available year-round. Size at maturity and reproductive cyclicity were assessed using 140 females and 151 males. For females, the size at 50% maturity was 701 mm disk width (DW) based on ovary length and weight, maximum follicle diameter, and mating wounds and scars; the size at 100% maturity was 712 mm DW. For males, the size at 50% maturity was 681 mm DW based on clasper morphology, testis length and weight, and epididymis width; the size at 100% maturity was 712 mm DW. Overall testis size (length and weight) and mean testis lobe diameter peaked up to 2 months prior to ovary size and maximum follicle di...
Outsourcing HR Functions: When-And When Not-To Go Outside

Deciding whether and what to outsource is not as patently obvious as some managers might think. This paper examines issues HR executives should consider before outsourcing HR activities. The findings are based on published research and is supported by the experience of the members of the International Personnel Association, which represents 60 of the top 100 multinationals in the U.S. and Canada.
Cerebral protein synthesis inhibition and discrimination training. Effects of extent and duration of inhibition.

Anisomycin, an inhibitor of cerebral protein synthesis, impaired memory in mice measured 5, 7, or 14 days after discrimination training. A large dose of anisomycin (210 mg/kg) impaired memory to a greater extent than a smaller dose (30 mg/kg) and inhibited cerebral protein synthesis more completely. The impairment produced by the smaller dose was not increased by maintaining protein synthesis inhibition for at least 13 1/2 hr beyond training with repeated injections (30 mg/kg). Moreover, memory was not measurably impaired by a prolonged period of inhibition, beginning 1-1/2 hr after training. The amnesic effects of the large dose could not easily be explained by illness or by state-dependent effects. The results suggest that, in the case of discrimination training, the amnesic effects of cerebral protein synthesis inhibition are determined largely by the extent of inhibition at the time of training, rather than by the duration of inhibition. For discrimination habits, sufficient protein synthesis for the establishment of long-term memory appears to occur close to the time of training.
Distribution of Be, Al, Se and Bi in the surface waters of the western North Atlantic and Caribbean

Abstract The mixed layer distributions of several trace elements have been determined along a detailed transect from Rhode Island to the Panama Canal. When taken together with a new and existing profile data from the North Atlantic and North Pacific, some general inferences emerge as to the processes controlling their concentrations in the surface waters. The large enrichments in Be observed in the upper waters of the North Atlantic relative to the North Pacific appear to be sustained mainly by fluvial inputs. Those of Se are derived from atmospheric transport. Aluminium and Bi also appear to have an aeolian source in the Sargasso Sea. However, in the tropical eastern Pacific, the Al input may be fluvial On this cruise, Be, Al and the Se species were analyzed on board ship within a few hours of collection. The demonstration that this is feasible opens up the prospect of the application of large-scale chemical hydrography to the study of the processes controlling the distribution and water column variability of trace elements in the oceans.
Open Networks of Queues with Blocking: Split and Merge Configurations:

Abstract Split and merge configurations of open networks of queues with blocking are analyzed approximately. The approximation procedure developed decomposes these queue networks into individual queues with revised queue capacity and revised arrival and service processes. These individual queues are then analyzed in isolation. The results obtained seem to have an acceptable error level. Stability conditions for these two configurations are also obtained.
Beyond the real/apparent world: From signs to imaging in Nietzsche

While partaking of nature’s nourishing play of light and shadows, an imaging comes to Nietzsche. It is not imagined, not a mere product of fancy, but comes as an imaging in the liberating space -time of light’s aimless play. With the imaging, Nietzsche’s solitary identity is altered-‘he’ becomes two. There are two sides to good and evil. On one side, there is authority, obedience, and the domination of established significations. Here the struggle that established the significations no longer images between signifier and signified. There is everywhere, on this side of good and evil, a terrible and swift violence maintaining the normalcy of signification. On the other side, there is the innocence of becoming. Two sides, without dialectical mediation-which is to say that the violence maintaining the normalcy of authority and obedience is powerless to appropriate the innocence of becoming. But within its dominion, the image of authority rules as the graven image of mastery. The good and the just reflect the graven image of mastery; they do the Lord’s work. They also make sure that the case of Nietzsche-Zarathrustra is understood as imaginative-schizophrenic, artistic fancy, or both. They work to insure that it is understood as Nietzsche’s Zarathrustra but never NietzscheZarathrustra. Normalization subjectifies, imposing its reflected image of mastery on all ‘things’. The master rules his subjects, who, as the good and the just, reflect and project this rule universally. Nietzsche-Zarathrustra normalized is Nietzsche the author of all ‘his’ voices. But even this imposition of authority does not effectively prevent the ‘author’s’ voices from becoming real beings:
Some Thoughts on the Measurement of Acculturation among Mexican American Elders

This article examines a subset of acculturation items pertaining to language fluency and use and to interpersonal relationships. This study included 3,050 Mexican American elders aged 65 to 99, ran...
Testicular Maturation Arrest to Testis Cancer: Spectrum of Expression of the Vitamin D Receptor and Vitamin D Treatment In Vitro

Purpose: We investigated the qualitative distribution of vitamin D receptor in human testis pathologies and performed an in vitro study of vitamin D receptor expression in a human testis cancer cell line model.Materials and Methods: Qualitative immunohistochemical analysis of vitamin D receptor in testis tumors, normal testis and specimens from infertile patients was performed. The human embryonal carcinoma cell line NT2/D1 (American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, Virginia) was cultured. Vitamin D receptor expression was examined by Western immunoblot analysis after incubating the cells with 250 to 800 nM vitamin D, 10 to 70 nM testosterone, 2 nM calcium or a combination of the 3 products.Results: Negative controls, synctiotrophoblasts and interstitial stroma did not stain positive for vitamin D receptor. Spermatogenic, Sertoli’s, Leydig and tumor cells stained positive in all specimens. Embryonal carcinoma demonstrated more nuclear and cytoplasmic staining than other tumors. Vitamin D receptor expres...
Correlation of 1- to 10-Hz Earthquake Resonances with Surface Measurements of S-wave Reflections and Refractions in the Upper 50 m

Resonances observed in earthquake seismograms recorded in Seattle, Washington, the central United States and Sherman Oaks, California, are correlated with each site's respective near-surface seismic velocity profile and reflectivity determined from shallow seismic-reflection/refraction surveys. In all of these cases the resonance accounts for the highest amplitude shaking at the site above 1 Hz. These results show that imaging near-surface reflections from the ground surface can locate impedance structures that are important contributors to earthquake ground shaking. A high-amplitude S -wave reflection, recorded 250-m northeast and 300-m east of the Seattle Kingdome earthquake-recording station, with a two-way travel time of about 0.23 to 0.27 sec (about 18- to 22-m depth) marks the boundary between overlying alluvium ( V S < 180 m/sec) and a higher velocity material ( V S about 400 m/sec). This reflector probably causes a strong 2-Hz resonance that is observed in the earthquake data for the site near the Kingdome. In the central United States, S -wave reflections from a high-impedance boundary (an S -wave velocity increase from about 200 m/sec to 2000 m/sec) at about 40-m depth corresponds to a strong fundamental resonance at about 1.5 Hz. In Sherman Oaks, strong resonances at about 1.0 and 4 Hz are consistently observed on earthquake seismograms. A strong S -wave reflector at about 40-m depth may cause the 1.0 Hz resonance. The 4.0-Hz resonance is possibly explained by constructive interference between the first overtone of the 1.0-Hz resonance and a 3.25- to 3.9-Hz resonance calculated from an areally consistent impedance boundary at about 10-m depth as determined by S -wave refraction data.
Semiclassical Theory for Tunneling of Electrons Interacting with Media

The exact semiclassical wave function for a tunneling electron, coupled to the degrees of freedom of a host medium, is constructed. This permits a description of electron dynamics within the barrier. As a specific application, the result is used to calculate the tunneling amplitude for the electron interacting with the single vibrational mode of the medium. In agreement both with experiment and with previous numerical study two regimes of tunneling, i.e., polaron-type vibronic transport and superexchange, are found depending on the relationship of the Buttikker−Landauer tunneling time and the vibrational period. The evolution of the media interacting with the tunneling particle is described.
Regulation of cAMP Responses by the G12/13 Pathway Converges on Adenylyl Cyclase VII

Regulation of intracellular cAMP by multiple pathways enables differential function of this ubiquitous second messenger in a context-dependent manner. Modulation of Gs-stimulated intracellular cAMP has long been known to be modulated by the Gi and Gq/Ca2+ pathways. Recently, the G13 pathway was also shown to facilitate cAMP responses in murine macrophage cells. We report here that this synergistic regulation of cAMP synthesis by the Gs and G13 pathways is mediated by a specific isoform of adenylyl cyclase, AC7. Furthermore, this signaling paradigm exists in several hematopoietic lineages and can be recapitulated by exogenous expression of AC7 in HEK 293 cells. Mechanistic characterization of this synergistic interaction indicates that it occurs downstream of receptor activation and it can be mediated by the α subunit of either G12 or G13. Our results demonstrate that AC7 is a specific downstream effector of the G12/13 pathway.
The new enterprise knowledge management© Gartner, Inc.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explain how knowledge management (KM) is an essential part of an information management (IM) initiative. IM and KM leaders must be aware of the challenges of fusing KM and IM.Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on observation of numerous KM and IM projects, and on discussions with expert practitioners and senior management.Findings – Executives want as close to real time decision support as they can get and they want business context around the data. For the information technology organization this means integrating structured data with unstructured content and building collaboration into analytic tools so that analysts across the company can share what they know. It means building KM into IM projects.Originality/value – Chief information officers and senior business managers who are implementing IM projects for decision support will get more value by including KM initiatives that provide for context and collaboration.
Altered grooming responses to stress in rats exposed prenatally to ethanol.

The effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on grooming, locomotion, and rearing in response to stress were examined in adult rats whose mothers consumed a liquid diet containing 35% ethanol-derived calories (EDC). Offspring of both pair-fed 0% EDC mothers and ad libitum chow-fed mothers were included as controls. In Experiment 1, females groomed more than males following placement into a novel test chamber, but no differences due to prenatal treatment were observed. Ethanol-exposed animals groomed more than controls following the stress of a forced 1-min swim (Experiment 2), but when rats tested in Experiment 1 were observed again after forced swim stress (Experiment 3), no differences due to prenatal treatment or sex were observed. Experiment 4 examined the effects of pretreatment with 1 mg/kg naloxone on novelty-induced grooming and as in Experiment 1 prenatal treatment did not affect grooming responses. Females again groomed significantly more than males and naloxone reduced grooming equally for all groups. The results suggest that novelty-induced grooming is a sex-influenced behavior, with females grooming more than males, and that animals exposed prenatally to alcohol and tested as adults may have altered responses to certain stressors (i.e., forced swim) under specific conditions. The altered grooming response of alcohol-exposed rats to swim stress can be eliminated by preexposing them to novelty stress.
Field theory for growth kinetics

We present a new field-theory method for growth-kinetics problems which describes the entire time evolution of the system from the early stage after the quench until final equilibrium is attained. The method is developed for a scalar order parameter (conserved or nonconserved) with dynamics of the Langevin type and a systematic low-temperature perturbation scheme is constructed. The main results obtained in lowest order are as follows: (i) a reduced singlet probability distribution which evolves from a Gaussian at early times to a bimodal distribution at late times; (ii) the dynamical separation of two characteristic lengths L(t) and \ensuremath{\xi}(t) associated, respectively, with the domain size and with the correlation length of fluctuations within a domain; (iii) scaling behavior for the structure factor at long times and a growth law L(t)\ensuremath{\sim}${t}^{n}$ with n=(1/4 for conserved order parameter and n=(1/2 for nonconserved order parameter; and (iv) the realization of the exact equilibrium state, free of spurious Nambu-Goldstone modes, as t\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}. First-order corrections to the structure factor are computed and it is found that they lead to no change in the growth law and to the appropriate first-order temperature corrections in the final equilibrium quantities. Finally the implications of these results for future work are briefly discussed.
Identification of adult hepatic progenitor cells capable of repopulating injured rat liver

Oval cells appear and expand in the liver when hepatocyte proliferation is compromised. Many different markers have been attributed to these cells, but their nature still remains obscure. This study is a detailed gene expression analysis aimed at revealing their identity and repopulating in vivo capacity. Oval cells were activated in 2-acetylaminofluorene–treated rats subjected to partial hepatectomy or in D-galactosamine–treated rats. Two surface markers [epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and thymus cell antigen 1 (Thy-1)] were used for purification of freshly isolated cells. Their gene expression analysis was studied with Affymetrix Rat Expression Array 230 2.0, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescent microscopy. We found that EpCAM+ and Thy-1+ cells represent two different populations of cells in the oval cell niche. EpCAM+ cells express the classical oval cell markers (alpha-fetoprotein, cytokeratin-19, OV-1 antigen, a6 integrin, and connexin 43), cell surface markers recently identified by us (CD44, CD24, EpCAM, aquaporin 5, claudin-4, secretin receptor, claudin-7, V-ros sarcoma virus oncogene homolog 1, cadherin 22, mucin-1, and CD133), and liver-enriched transcription factors (forkhead box q, forkhead box a2, onecut 1, and transcription factor 2). Oval cells do not express previously reported hematopoietic stem cell markers Thy-1, c-kit, and CD34 or the neuroepithelial marker neural cell adhesion molecule 1. However, oval cells express a number of mesenchymal markers including vimentin, mesothelin, bone morphogenetic protein 7, and Tweak receptor (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 12A). A group of novel differentially expressed oval cell genes is also presented. It is shown that Thy-1+ cells are mesenchymal cells with characteristics of myofibroblasts/activated stellate cells. Transplantation experiments reveal that EpCAM+ cells are true progenitors capable of repopulating injured rat liver. Conclusion: We have shown that EpCAM+ oval cells are bipotential adult hepatic epithelial progenitors. These cells display a mixed epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype that has not been recognized previously. They are valuable candidates for liver cell therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.)
Phagosome Maturation Proceeds Independently of Stimulation of Toll-like Receptors 2 and 4

Toll-like receptors modulate many aspects of the innate immune response. Recent reports suggest that the maturation of phagosomes following particle uptake is modulated through signaling of Toll-like receptors. In the current study, the kinetics of phagosome maturation was evaluated quantitatively by ratio fluorometry to determine the lumenal pH of the phagosomes and a FRET-based technique to determine the degree of phagosome/lysosome fusion. Profiles generated for phagosomes containing experimental particles with or without the TLR ligands Pam3Cys-Ser-(Lys)4 or LPS failed to reveal a difference in maturation despite activating TLR-signaling pathways. Moreover, while macrophages defective in individual TLRs generated phagosome maturation profiles identical to wild-type macrophages, MyD88-deficient macrophages exhibited a marked depression in phagosome/lysosome fusion that appears independent of short-term TLR-mediated effects. The results demonstrate that the rate of maturation of phagosomes proceeds independently of TLR signaling pathways.
W-boson-top-quark background to heavy-Higgs-boson production.

Relevant to {ital WW} physics and heavy-Higgs-boson detection through its decay {ital H}{r arrow}{ital W}{sup +}{ital W}{sup {minus}}{r arrow}{ital l}{nu}+2 jets at the Superconducting Super Collider is the subprocess {ital bg}{r arrow}{ital Wt}. We study this process over the invariant-mass region {ital M}{sub {ital W}{ital t}}{gt}850 with respect to a 1-TeV Higgs boson using top-quark masses of {ital m}{sub {ital t}}=100 and 175 GeV. The cross sections in this region give a signal-to-background ratio of about 1:20. After applying further restrictions at the hadronic level for eliminating top quarks in conjunction with some basic parton level cuts, we find this ratio can be improved to 1:1. Polarization properties are also discussed.
Searching for the Cognitive Locus of Foreign Language Learning Difficulties: Linking First and Second Language Learning

motivation (35; 36) and high levels of anxiety (44; 53), and, more recently, learning style differences and inefficient language learning strategies (74; 75). In an article published in the 1991 Modern Language Journal (97), we proposed an alternative to affective explanations for FL learning problems. The alternative, the FL Linguistic Coding Deficit Hypothesis (LCDH), posits native language difficulties as a possible cause of FL difficulties. The connection between L1 and L2 learning, though inferred in the foreign language research literature of the 1950s and 1960s (e.g., Carroll, 13-19; Pimsleur, 78; 80-82), has not been emphasized in recent years, nor have difficulties with L1 explicitly been stated as a cause of L2 learning problems.2 The LCDH derives from native language research on reading disabilities by Vellutino and Scanlon, who examined the role of the linguistic "codes"--phonology, syntax, and semantics-among good and poor readers. Vellutino and Scanlon found that poor readers had difficulties with both phonology and syntax, although phonological coding was particularly weak.3 Considerable empirical evidence has been generated supporting the importance of phonological coding for efficient reading (7; 8; 60; 77; 105; 117), and poor readers have been found to lack "phonological awareness," or the ability to segment phonemes within words (often referred to as "phoneme segmentation"). In our own research on high school and college FL learners, we have found support for the LCDH, and that difficulty using a phonological code, in particular, seems to be the most common problem among unsuccessful FL learners who are otherwise successful in school.
Intracardiac echocardiography in humans using a small-sized (6F), low frequency (12.5 MHz) ultrasound catheter. Methods, imaging planes and clinical experience.

Abstract Objectives. This study was designed to determine the clinical utility and feasibility of using 12.5-MHz ultrasound catheters for intracardiac echocardiography. Background. Intracardiac echocardiography is a potentially useful technique of cardiac imaging and monitoring in certain settings. The feasibility of intracardiac echocardiography using 20-MHz ultrasound catheters in patients has been demonstrated. High resolution images of normal cardiac structures as well as cardiac abnormalities have been obtained. However, imaging has been limited by the shallow depth of field inherent in high frequency ultrasound imaging. Methods. Intracardiac echocardiography with 12.5-MHz catheters was performed in eight mongrel dogs and 92 patients. Catheters were introduced percutaneously in 86 patients studied in the catheterization laboratory and directly into the heart in 12 patients in the operating room. Right heart imaging was performed in 68 patients and arterial and left heart imaging in 35 patients. Results. When these catheters were introduced into the venous system, the right atrium, tricuspid valve, right ventricle, pulmonary valve and pulmonary artery were visualized. Pericardial effusion, intracardiac masses and atrial septal defects were correctly identified. The left ventricle, left atrium, mitral valve, aortic valve, aorta and coronary arteries could be imaged from the arterial circulation. Diseases identified included valvular aortic stenosis, subvalvular aortic stenosis and Kawasaki disease. Average imaging time was 10 min. No complications occurred as a result of intracardiac echocardiography. Conclusions. Intracardiac echocardiography with 12.5-MHz ultrasound catheters is safe and feasible; it also provides anatomic and physiologic information. This feasibility study provides a foundation for wider clinical use of intracardiac echocardiography.
The impact of an interventional vascular specialty team on institutional endovascular aneurysm repair outcomes.

Abstract Background Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a technically demanding, resource-intensive procedure associated with a significant learning curve. In July 2002, the Department of Defense allocated nearly $5,000,000 for “Advances in Medical Practice” (AMP) and EVAR within the six major military medical centers in the United States Army. We sought to determine the impact of several institutional changes associated with the use of these funds. Methods We performed a single-institution, retrospective comparison of our early EVAR outcomes in physiologically similar patients before and after the use of AMP capital and the acquisition of a trained and equipped endovascular operative team. Morbidity, mortality, and operative variables were the main outcomes. Mean follow-up interval was 17.6 months. Results As of November 2004, a total of 114 conventional open and endovascular AAA repairs were performed at our institution since our first EVAR in May 2000. Ten of 51 (20%) total AAA patients were treated with EVAR by a general vascular surgical team before the addition of an endovascular specialty team to the service in July 2002. An additional 28 of 63 (44%) patients have been treated with EVAR since that time for a total of 38 repairs. During the first year evaluated, 20% of aneurysms were repaired with EVAR versus 83% during the most recent year. Devices from four different manufacturers were used during the study interval. Patients treated by the endovascular team had significantly less mean estimated blood loss (EBL), packed red blood cells (PRBCs) transfused, intravenous (IV) contrast used, and shorter operative times. Morbidity, mortality, endoleaks, and other variables were similar. In linear regression analysis adjusting for complex, time-consuming repairs that required adjunctive procedures outside the realm of normal EVAR, endovascular team EVAR was independently associated with decreased mean operative time, EBL, PRBCs transfused, and IV contrast used. Conclusions At a major military medical center, EVAR has become the preferred technique for the repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms. EVAR by a dedicated endovascular surgical team favorably impacts several important operative variables and may improve overall outcomes. Some of these operative variables may be device specific.
Regional population differentiation in the morphologically diverse, elevationally widespread Nearctic skipper Polites sabuleti

Aim To evaluate three phylogeographical models associated with the presence of mountains (montane vicariance, sky island and parapatry) as drivers of intraspecific diversification in the sandhill skipper, Polites sabuleti (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae), a morphologically variable species found in a variety of habitats from sea level to the alpine zone. Location Western North America. Methods The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit II region was sequenced in 189 P. sabuleti individuals. Mitochondrial sequences were used in a spatial analysis of molecular variance (SAMOVA) to evaluate geographical population structure. AFLP markers were also generated for 347 individuals in order to estimate admixture proportions and examine population differentiation based on the nuclear genome. Results Twenty-five mitochondrial haplotypes and 42 anonymous AFLP loci were found across 36 collection localities. Mitochondrial variation suggests a degree of regional population structure, although at least one of the inferred population groups extends over nearly the entire geographical range of the species. Analyses of nuclear data (AFLPs) identified five genetic clusters, including one restricted to high elevations in the Sierra Nevada. Main conclusions The distribution of genetic variation within Polites sabuleti, a species with a broad elevational range, does not strictly support either mountain-associated vicariance or ‘sky island’ isolation as the dominant process. Instead, we find complex population structure, including evidence for divergence between high- and low-elevation populations in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The linear-quadratic-gaussian problem for singularly perturbed systems†

Abstract This paper addresses the general formulation of the linear-quadratic-gaussian (LQG) problem for stochastic singularly perturbed systems. It has been found that the time-Scale phenomena between the fast state variable and the stochastic variable plays a crucial role in formulating a meaningful LQG problem for the above system. A well-posed LQG problem for the stochastic singularly perturbed linear system with the fast state having a white noise component has been presented.
Functional and biochemical evidence for G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels composed of GIRK2 and GIRK3

G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K(+) (GIRK) channels are widely expressed in the brain and are activated by at least eight different neurotransmitters. As K(+) channels, they drive the transmembrane potential toward E(K) when open and thus dampen neuronal excitability. There are four mammalian GIRK subunits (GIRK1-4 or Kir 3.1-4), with GIRK1 being the most unique of the four by possessing a long carboxyl-terminal tail. Early studies suggested that GIRK1 was an integral component of native GIRK channels. However, more recent data indicate that native channels can be either homo- or heterotetrameric complexes composed of several GIRK subunit combinations. The functional implications of subunit composition are poorly understood at present. The purpose of this study was to examine the functional and biochemical properties of GIRK channels formed by the co-assembly of GIRK2 and GIRK3, the most abundant GIRK subunits found in the mammalian brain. To examine the properties of a channel composed of these two subunits, we co-transfected GIRK2 and GIRK3 in CHO-K1 cells and assayed the cells for channel activity by patch clamp. The most significant difference between the putative GIRK2/GIRK3 heteromultimeric channel and GIRK1/GIRKx channels at the single channel level was an approximately 5-fold lower sensitivity to activation by Gbetagamma. Complexes containing only GIRK2 and GIRK3 could be immunoprecipitated from transfected cells and could be purified from native brain tissue. These data indicate that functional GIRK channels composed of GIRK2 and GIRK3 subunits exist in brain.
Veratridine and ouabain stimulate calcium-dependent prolactin release.

We have investigated the effects of veratridine, a Na+ channel activator, and ouabain, an inhibitor of Na+-K+- ATPase, on short term (1-h) PRL release from primary cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells and from the rat anterior pituitary cell line GH4C1 in culture. Both compounds should increase intracellular Na+. Veratridine (20-500 MM) and ouabain (0.1-3 mM) stimulated PRL release from normal cells. The stimulation was inhibited by the omission of Ca++ from the release buffer or by preincubation with the calcium channel blocker D600 (20- 500 μM), suggesting a role for Ca++ in the action of these compounds. Ouabain (1 mm), but not veratridine (200 μM), stimulated PRL release from GH4Ci cells, an effect that was also inhibited by calcium channel blockers. In the presence of the dopaminergic agonist bromocriptine (30 nM), the amount of stimulated release by veratridine (200 μM) and ouabain (1 mM) was reduced by 50%. The veratridine effect was only partially inhibited by preincubation of the cells with t...
PLD1 Regulates mTOR Signaling and Mediates Cdc42 Activation of S6K1

Abstract Background: The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) regulates cell growth and proliferation via the downstream targets ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1). We have identified phosphatidic acid (PA) as a mediator of mitogenic activation of mTOR signaling. In this study, we set out to test the hypotheses that phospholipase D 1 (PLD1) is an upstream regulator of mTOR and that the previously reported S6K1 activation by Cdc42 is mediated by PLD1. Results: Overexpression of wild-type PLD1 increased S6K1 activity in serum-stimulated cells, whereas a catalytically inactive PLD1 exerted a dominant-negative effect on S6K1. More importantly, eliminating endogenous PLD1 by RNAi led to drastic inhibition of serum-stimulated S6K1 activation and 4E-BP1 hyperphosphorylation in both HEK293 and COS-7 cells. Knockdown of PLD1 also resulted in reduced cell size, suggesting a critical role for PLD1 in cell growth control. Using a rapamycin-resistant S6K1 mutant, Cdc42's action was demonstrated to be through the mTOR pathway. When Cdc42 was mutated in a region specifically required for PLD1 activation, its ability to activate S6K1 in the presence of serum was hindered. However, when exogenous PA was used as a stimulus, the PLD1-inactive Cdc42 mutant behaved similarly to the wild-type protein. Conclusions: Our observations reveal the involvement of PLD1 in mTOR signaling and cell size control, and provide a molecular mechanism for Cdc42 activation of S6K1. A new cascade is proposed to connect mitogenic signals to mTOR through Cdc42, PLD1, and PA.
NUTRITION SUPPORT PRACTICES IN A PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

A.S.P.E.N. and others have recommended early enteral nutrition (EN) as the optimal route for nutrition support. We reviewed our experience with 100 children admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) to assess what proportion of children received early EN and whether they achieved their caloric goal (Recommended Dietary Allowance [RDA]) within the first 72 hours of admission to the PICU. By the end of their third day in the PICU, 86% of subjects received some form of nutrition. EN was the predominant form of nutrition support started (72%). However, only half the subjects received ≤50% of RDA by the end of their third PICU day. Subjects who did not achieve 50% of their caloric goal received less total fluid and less fluid with nutritional value than those children who achieved at least half their goal. Attention to nutritional content of total fluids administered and systematic advancement of rate of EN administration is warranted.
Activation of CaMKII and ERK1/2 contributes to the time-dependent potentiation of Ca2+ response elicited by repeated application of capsaicin in rat DRG neurons

When capsaicin is applied repeatedly to dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons for brief periods (10–15 s) at short intervals (5–10 min), the evoked responses rapidly decline, a phenomenon termed tachy...
tRNAs: cellular barcodes for amino acids

The role of tRNA in translating the genetic code has received considerable attention over the last 50 years, and we now know in great detail how particular amino acids are specifically selected and brought to the ribosome in response to the corresponding mRNA codon. Over the same period, it has also become increasingly clear that the ribosome is not the only destination to which tRNAs deliver amino acids, with processes ranging from lipid modification to antibiotic biosynthesis all using aminoacyl-tRNAs as substrates. Here we review examples of alternative functions for tRNA beyond translation, which together suggest that the role of tRNA is to deliver amino acids for a variety of processes that includes, but is not limited to, protein synthesis.
The effects of prolonged endurance exercise on the neurological system in horses

Horses compete routinely in endurance-type activities. Many of the various pathophysiological mechanisms which arise during endurance exercise have implications for the health and function of the neurological system. The development of centrally-mediated fatigue is a normal homeostatic physiological event with several possible mechanisms. Development of pathophysiological phenomena such as cerebral oedema may be near-terminal events during or after endurance exhaustion. Cellular damage resulting in cytotoxic cerebral oedema may result from decreases in circulating blood volume (dehydration), blood pressure, oxygen, and glucose, or increases in brain temperature. Vasogenic cerebral oedema arises from changes in cerebral vascular perfusion, tone, and permeability. Increased vascular permeability results from increased brain temperature, poor vascular integrity due to severe dehydration, disseminated intravascular coagulation due to hemoconcentration or endotoxemia, and iatrogenic overhydration during therap...
Pulmonary Atresia, Intact Ventricular Septum, Right Ventricle-Dependent Coronary Artery Circulation, and Systemic Collateral Arteries Supplying the Left Coronary Artery

We present a 14-day-old with pulmonary artery atresia with intact ventricular septum, right ventricle-dependent coronary circulation, a single aortic root coronary ostia (left), congenital collateral arterial supply to the left coronary artery from the left internal mammary artery, and bilateral paravertebral arteries, with obstructive coronary artery lesions.
Molecularly derived mesoscale modeling of an epoxy/Cu interface (Part IV): The effect of Filler

Mesoscale models (parameterized from molecular models) have been previously reported [1-2] which simulate interfacial failure of both flat and rough epoxy-copper oxide interfaces, and demonstrate how coarsegrained models could be used to predict interfacial properties and mechanical failure. The work was targeted at understand molding compound failure [3-4]; however, all molding compounds are highly filled and the aspect of the filler had not yet been addressed. The current paper reports the continued efforts to explore the use of mesoscale models by adding in the effect of the filler on the mechanical response of the epoxy. This work was supported in part by the NanoInterface Consortium funded from the Seventh Framework Program for Research and Technological Development (FP7) of the European Union (NMP3-SL-20080214371).
Clinical Issues in the Management of Patients with Myelodysplasia

The management of patients with myelodysplasia (MDS) can be quite complex and varies according to both the clinical manifestations in individual patients as well as complicating medical conditions. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is the only curative treatment, but because of the older age of the patient population must be applied selectively, particularly in those with lower risk MDS as well as in patients whose clinical course is more frankly "preleukemic." Issues pertinent to the use of 5-azacytidine, decitabine and lenalidomide in patients with both higher and lower International Prognostic Staging System (IPSS) stage disease are discussed.
Iodolactamization: 8‐exo‐Iodo‐2‐Azabicyclo[3.3.0]Octan‐3‐One

Iodolactamization: 8-exo-iodo-2-azabicyclo[3.3.0]octan-3-one intermediate: 2-Cyclopentene-1-acetamide intermediate: 8-exo-Iodo-2-azabicyclo[3.3.0]octan-3-one Keywords: acylation; addition, to CC; annulation, heterocyclic-[M,N]; cyclization, miscellaneous; replacement reactions, halogen by amino; replacement reactions, hydroxy by amino; replacement reactions, hydroxy by halogen; silylation; silylation; stereoselective reactions, stereospecific; pentane; toluene; triethylamine; ammonia; oxalyl chloride, toxicity; trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate, corrosive, highly toxic
Death and taxes: The case of the depletion of pearl oyster beds in sixteenth-century Venezuela.

: Interdisciplinary approaches have been used not only to interpret past patterns of natural resource utilization but also to provide useful tools for conservation biology and resource management. I report here the depletion of the pearl oyster ( Pinctada imbricata ) beds off the coast of Cubagua, Venezuela, in the sixteenth century and the replacement of the oyster by the turkey-wing mussel ( Arca zebra ). I used historical tax data to conclude that the rapid depletion of this resource was the result not only of overexploitation in a short period of time but also of the ecology of the place used by humans to carry out such activity. Under conditions of ecological stress generated by overexpoloitation, the turkey-wing mussel outcompeted the pearl oyster, thus preventing its recovery. Finally, I propose that the exploitation of the pearl oyster beds directly influenced the demographic, social, and cultural conditions of the indigenous human populations in the Caribbean and, to a certain extent, in Africa. Resumen: Se han utilizado enfoques interdisciplinarios no solo para interpretar patrones historicos de uso de recursos naturales, sino tambien para proporcionar herramientas utiles a la biologia de la conservacion y el manejo de recursos. Aqui reporto el agotamiento de los bancos de ostras perliferas ( Pinctada imbricata ) en la costa de Cubagua, Venezuela, en el siglo XVI y el reemplazo de esta ostra por el mejillon ( Arca zebra ). Utilice datos historicos de impuestos para concluir que el rapido agotamiento de este recurso fue resultado no solo de la sobreexplotacion en un corto periodo de tiempo sino tambien de la ecologia del sitio utilizado por humanos para llevar a cabo tal actividad. Bajo condiciones de estres ecologico generados por la sobre explotacion, el mejillon desplazo competitivamente a la ostra, evitando asi su recuperacion. Finalmente, propongo que la explotacion de los bancos de ostras perliferas influyo directamente sobre las condiciones demograficas, sociales y culturales de las poblaciones humanas indigenas en el Caribe y, hasta cierto punto, en Africa.
Developing an Effective Validation Strategy for Genetic Programming Models Based on Multiple Datasets

Genetic programming (GP) is a parallel searching technique where many solutions can be obtained simultaneously in the searching process. However, when applied to real-world classification tasks, some of the obtained solutions may have poor predictive performances. One of the reasons is that these solutions only match the shape of the training dataset, failing to learn and generalize the patterns hidden in the dataset. Therefore, unexpected poor results are obtained when the solutions are applied to the test dataset. This paper addresses how to remove the solutions which will have unacceptable performances on the test dataset. The proposed method in this paper applies a multi-dataset validation phase as a filter in GP-based classification tasks. By comparing our proposed method with a standard GP classifier based on the datasets from seven different NASA software projects, we demonstrate that the multi-dataset validation is effective, and can significantly improve the performance of GP-based software quality classification models
Multi-Bit Distributed MEMS Inductors

This paper presents multi-bit MEMS inductors that operate from 5-40GHz. Tunability is achieved by the individual actuation of cantilever beams suspended on the center conductor and ground planes of coplanar waveguide. Inductance ratios of 1.2-3.0 were achieved over frequency with the inductance value ranging from 0.24nH to 0.73nH at 40GHz.
Social Dominance and Social Identity in Lebanon: Implications for Support of Violence Against the West

We examined various group identifications among Lebanese Muslims and Christians after the events of September 11 2001 and how these identifications related to social dominance orientation (SDO) and support for violence against the West. We expected stronger identification with less powerful groups to be associated with lower SDO (i.e. greater desires for group equality), and stronger support for terrorist organizations and violent acts against powerful nations. Consistent with these expectations, we found that SDO related negatively to identification with Arabs, and this group identification related positively to support for terrorist organizations and feelings that the September 11 attack was justified. Furthermore, we found that the direct negative effect of SDO on support for terrorism was mediated by Arab identification. Efforts to reduce conflict are discussed in terms of recognizing the anti-dominance elements of Arab identification in Lebanon, and the powerful implications that this subordinate gro...
Creation and optimization of vertical-cavity X-modulators

We have developed a photon conserving, reversible optoelectronic intensity modulator. The device works by using quantum wells in a slightly asymmetric InGaAs-AlGaAs QW Fabry-Perot cavity to direct an incident optical beam to transmit through the device or to be reflected from the device depending upon the state of the switching element. The first experimental device simultaneously switches reflectivity and transmission from 6% to 60% and 60% to 6%, respectively. We also examine the cavity design parameter space and effects of incident angle on device performance. Furthermore, experimental results from combinations of stacked devices are discussed. A theoretical analysis of the X-modulator design parameter space is given as is an analysis of the system response of our two element stacked devices. Finally, a thorough theoretical treatment of crossbar switches using symmetric X-modulators is provided.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Molecular Markers in Renal Cell Carcinoma

Purpose: We reviewed the contemporary literature on molecular biomarkers in renal cell carcinoma and their prognostic significance.Materials and Methods: Articles published during 1981 to 2007 in English on renal cell carcinoma were surveyed using the MEDLINE®/PubMed® database. The subject headings included were genetics, biomarkers, prognosis and risk models of renal cell carcinoma. We present a synthesis of currently known renal cell carcinoma biomarkers at various stages of development and their clinical significance, and prognostic nomograms incorporating biomarkers.Results: The beneficiary role of biomarkers in renal cell carcinoma is challenged by the relatively low prevalence of the disease. Even if a biomarker for renal cell carcinoma had 100% sensitivity and 99.4% specificity, the positive predictive value of the marker in men older than 65 years would be only 10%. Several biomarkers are being investigated in renal cell carcinoma, of which many relate to pathogenic molecular changes that are curr...
Short-term effects of bottom trawling and a storm event on soft-bottom benthos in the eastern Bering Sea

A Before–After Control– Impact (BACI) experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of a commercial bottom trawl on benthic invertebrates in a sandy and previously untrawled area of the eastern Bering Sea. Six pairs of experimental and control corridors were sampled with a research trawl before and after four consecutive tows with the commercial otter trawl. A major storm event occurred during the experiment, and it was possible to differentiate its effect from that of the trawling using the BACImodel. Species composition changed very little;Asterias amurensis and Paralithodes camtschaticus comprised over 80% of the total invertebrate biomass (kg ha) during each year of the study. In general, the commercial trawl did not significantly affect the biomass of the benthic invertebrate populations. The trawling effect after 4–14 dwas statistically significant in three of the 24 taxa that were analysed, which was, as expected, because of nothing more than random variation with a 1⁄4 0.10. Biomass immediately after the trawling disturbance was lower for 15 of the taxa and higher for the other nine, with a median change of 214.2%. Similarly, the effect of trawling on invertebrate biomass after one year was not statistically significant for any of the taxonomic groups (p ≥ 0.23), indicating no evidence of a delayed response to the commercial-trawl disturbance. Further analysis suggests that storms have an overall greater effect on the benthos than do bottom trawls at this location. Both the numbers of taxa significantly affected by trawling and the storm (3 vs. 12), as well as the median sizes of these effects 214.2% vs. 222.0%), were greater for the storm event. Results from this study are combined with those from a related investigation of chronic trawling effects to propose an adaptive management strategy for the study region, including rotating area closures to mitigate for temporary trawling effects.
Titans/Planners, Bohemians/Revolutionaries: Male Empowerment in the 1930S

While William Leuchtenburg is certainly correct in concluding that the sha dow of both FDR and the New Deal is receding,1 the decade of the 1930s is still regarded as the acme of progressive reform in America. Although the memories of the 1930s are fading and the reforms of the decade have been contested, in this narrative the achievements of the New Deal are still heroic.2 In many respects I do not challenge this assessment. However, an important aspect of this heroic narrative deserves r??valuation. Robert McElvaine, in his analysis of the decade in 1984, argues that the loss of economic status by men in the Great Depression resulted in a "femi nization" of cultural norms: "The self-centered, aggressive, competitive male 'ethic' of the 1920s was discredited. Men who lost their jobs became dependent in ways that women had been thought to be. " As men