cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acute effects of S-carboxymethylated human growth hormone on insulin resistance in the obese (ob/ob) mouse.

Chronic treatment of obob mice with growth hormone (GH) increases plasma insulin and blood glucose concentrations, and enhances insulin resistance in peripheral tissues. The purpose of the present study was: (1) to determine the length of time required for the development of increased circulating insulin concentration and adipose tissue insulin resistance in response to GH in the obob mouse, (2) to examine the relationship between the rise in insulin concentration and the development of insulin resistance, and (3) to test whether the hormone derivative could enhance insulin resistance in isolated adipose tissue when added in vitro. Female obob mice were injected intraperitoneally (ip) with either saline or 200 μg of S-carboxymethylated human GH (RCM-hGH), a diabetogenic GH derivative, which lacks significant insulinlike or growth-promoting activities. A threefold increase in plasma insulin concentration was observed three and six hours after RCM-hGH injection, but increased hyperglycemia was evident only after six hours. The in vitro stimulatory effect of insulin on [14C]glucose oxidation by parametrial adipose tissue was unchanged at three hours but suppressed six hours following administration of RCM-hGH. When the plasma insulin level of obob mice was increased threefold by the administration of neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin, the in vitro stimulatory effect of insulin on [14C]glucose oxidation by adipose tissue isolated from these animals was not altered, suggesting that insulin-induced receptor or postreceptor changes do not account for the increased insulin resistance produced by RCM-hGH. When segments of parametrial fat were incubated for up to six hours in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer or cultured for up to 24 hours in Earle's medium 199 in the presence of RCM-hGH or biosynthetic methionyl-hGH (met-hGH), subsequent insulin-stimulated [14C]glucose oxidation was not affected, suggesting that GH does not enhance insulin resistance in adipose tissue directly.
Cowles Changes Allegiance: From Empiricism to Cognition as Intuitive Statistics

Does neoclassical economic theory embody a specific politics? A century of uneasy bromides have done little to seriously clarify the issue, perhaps because of a tendency to confuse the various levels of specificity at which an answer might be tendered and defended. At its most abstract and general, the response must surely be: a few equations imperfectly cribbed from rational mechanics need have no special affinity with any political position whatsoever, as long as sufficient ingenuity is expended in their interpretation and elaboration. Yet, at a slightly less elevated level, the question as to whether individual neoclassical economists put forth arguments that supported various political programs cannot be answered in any other manner but the airmative. Walras thought it underwrote a limited conception of state ownership of land; Pareto thought it resonated with a sour cynicism about the circulation of elites; Hayek began by thinking it helped explain an anti-statist position; Milton Friedman believed it the economics of Dr. Pangloss. But this raises the further question: Is there anything intrinsic to the doctrine that biases it toward one political orientation or another? This question can only be addressed at the very specific level of individual cultural formations at well-demarcated historical junctures.
The effects of parental alcoholism on perception of control and imposter phenomenon

The present study examined the differences in internal and external locus of control and imposter phenomenon among persons with alcoholic and non-alcoholic parents. The subjects were 48 college students and 21 members of local Adult Children of Alcoholic groups. The students were further divided into those with alcoholic parents and non-alcoholic parents. The subjects were administered the following three instruments: the Nowicki-Strickland Internal-External Control Scale for Adults (Nowicki & Duke, 1973), the Imposter Test (Chance & O’Toole, 1987), and a family history survey. Analysis of locus of control scores revealed a highly significant (p<.01) difference for externality, with Adult Children being most external and students with non-alcoholic parents least external. Similarly, internality scores differed significantly (p<.0001), with Adult Children being least, and the non-alcoholic group being most internally oriented. Analysis of variance for imposter phenomenon revealed a significant (p<.05) difference among the three groups, with the Adult Children of Alcoholics group having the highest scores and students with non-alcoholic parents having the lowest. These findings are consistent with the idea that parental alcoholism interferes with nurturing and consistent reinforcement, and with the development of personal adaptability.
Protein Quantity on the Air–Solid Interface Determines Degradation Rates of Human Growth Hormone in Lyophilized Samples

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) was lyophilized with various glass-forming stabilizers, employing cycles that incorporated various freezing and annealing procedures to manipulate glass formation kinetics, associated relaxation processes, and glass-specific surface areas (SSAs). The secondary structure in the cake was monitored by infrared and in reconstituted samples by circular dichroism. The rhGH concentrations on the surface of lyophilized powders were determined from electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis. Glass transition temperature (Tg ), SSAs, and water contents were determined immediately after lyophilization. Lyophilized samples were incubated at 323 K for 16 weeks, and the resulting extents of rhGH aggregation, oxidation, and deamidation were determined after rehydration. Water contents and Tg were independent of lyophilization process parameters. Compared with samples lyophilized after rapid freezing, rhGH in samples that had been annealed in frozen solids prior to drying, or annealed in glassy solids after secondary drying retained more native-like protein secondary structure, had a smaller fraction of the protein on the surface of the cake, and exhibited lower levels of degradation during incubation. A simple kinetic model suggested that the differences in the extent of rhGH degradation during storage in the dried state between different formulations and processing methods could largely be ascribed to the associated levels of rhGH at the solid-air interface after lyophilization.
Intraosseous lipoma of the calcaneus: A review and report of four cases

Intraosseous lipomas have been reported as rare tumors in the lower extremity. They have been identified in the tibia, fibula, metatarsals, and calcaneus. They are frequently misdiagnosed as other tumors, especially unicameral bone cysts or aneurysmal bone cysts when found within the calcaneus. A detailed description of intraosseous calcaneal lipomas and their treatment is given. Surgical technique and four case reports are presented. One of the cases involved a pathologic calcaneal fracture, a finding to the authors' knowledge that has not been previously reported.
Non-Contact Microrheology of Monolayers and Membranes

Understanding the mechanics/rheology of surface monolayers and lipid bilayers is of fundamental biological importance. One technique used to explored these questions is membrane microrheology, in which the observed thermal fluctuations of a tracer particle in the monolayer is used to extract the rheological data. This technique is challenging for at least two reasons. On the one hand, in fragile monolayer systems the presence of the tracer can locally perturb the monolayer. On the other hand, in sufficiently stiff monolayers/membranes it has proved problematic to embed the particle in it. In this talk, we develop a noncontact microrheological approach to avoid these issues by exploring the effect membrane rheology on the thermal fluctuations of a bead in the fluid near the monolayer.Specifically, we develop the theory of the force response function of a spherical particle submerged below either a Langmuir monolayer or a lipid bilayer. We show that one can use the observed thermal fluctuations of that submerged particle to extract rheological properties of the essentially two-dimensional monolayer or membrane. We also present experimental results on application of this technique to surfactant monolayers and monolayers bound to an F-actin network on the aqueous side of the Langmuir monolayer.
The Effect of Flexible Learning Delivery Format on Online Learners' Learning, Application, and Instructional Perception.

Instructional condition has been an important area of study to improve learner satisfaction and learning outcomes within public and private organizations. Among various types of learning methods sa...
Post-purchase evaluation of U.S. consumers’ preferences for chestnuts

A regional study of consumer satisfaction and preferences for various chestnut attributes was conducted in 2009. Surveys were distributed to five chestnut growers/sellers in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Ohio and Illinois to accompany chestnut sales to their individual customers. Returned surveys represented consumers from 18 states, mainly the U.S. Midwest but also from the East and West coasts. The survey measured consumer satisfaction with the chestnuts purchased (by using affective, cognitive and behavioral constructs), assessed consumer’s general knowledge about chestnuts, frequency of consumption and familiarity with cooking. The survey also included a choice-based conjoint analysis to evaluate the effects of origin, production process and price on consumer preferences for chestnuts. Results show that high satisfaction with chestnuts purchased increases the likelihood of future purchase. Most consumers who buy chestnuts know that chestnuts need to be refrigerated but more educational effort is needed regarding the low fat content of chestnuts as compared to other nuts and the gluten-free attribute of chestnut flour. Conjoint analysis of chestnut attributes (origin, production process and price) confirmed results of past studies. Holding other attributes constant, chestnut origin is the most important attribute influencing purchases, consumers strongly preferring locally grown chestnuts over U.S. grown or imported. Chestnuts grown organically or pesticide free were preferred over conventional production. Price also has a significant influence on the purchase decision but its relative effect was lowered when bundled with the other product attributes.
Drinking Problems of Native American and White Youth

The consequences of alcohol consumption by teenagers in general and Indian youth in particular have long been of concern in the United States. Nevertheless, there have been few empirical studies of problems experienced by adolescents subsequent to drinking, and none which have provided comparative data on drinking related problems of white and Native American youth. The findings presented here are based on a self-report study of high school students in the Wind River Reservation area of Wyoming. With regard to feeling high, getting drunk, being sick, passing out, suffering a brief loss of memory, being stopped by the police, having an automobile accident and getting into trouble with parents, Indian youth of both sexes tend to experience more serious consequences of drinking than do white youth from the same area.
Mitochondrial KATP channels and cardioprotection

Since its identification in 1983, the myocardial ATP-sensitive potassium channel (K ATP channel) has been recognized as an important ion channel that couples the cellular energy status to electrical activity in ischemic or hypoxic myocytes, and early studies with selective potassium channel openers suggested that opening this channel may result in cellular protection. This concept was strengthened in 1992, when it was shown that this channel was an integral part of ischemic preconditioning (IPC), a phenomenon in which one or several short periods of coronary artery occlusion were shown to protect the heart from a more prolonged coronary artery occlusion. Endpoints of injury, which have been used as indices to demonstrate the efficacy of IPC, include a reduction in myocardial infarct size, a reduction in contractile dysfunction after brief periods of ischemia (myocardial stunning), and a decrease in the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias during coronary artery occlusion and/or reperfusion. Since the seminal observation of a myocrdial K ATP channel, two K ATP channels have been identified: one in the sarcolemmal membrane (sarc K ATP ) and one in the inner mitochondrial membrane (mito K ATP ). There is evidence to support a role for both channels in mediating cardioprotection; however, the majority of recent evidence suggests that the mito K ATP channel is the major channel responsible for cardioprotection after IPC or the administration of K ATP opener drugs. This review will summarize the evidence supporting a role for the mito K ATP channel in both acute and delayed preconditioning produced by ischemia. The review will also summarize, from a pharmacological viewpoint, the potential mechanisms responsible for the cardioprotection observed and the potential clinical implications of developing drugs that are selective mito K ATP channel openers.
A BRCA1 mutation carrier with three breast primaries and childhood ionizing radiation treatments: A possible gene/environment interaction

A BRCA1 mutation carrier with three breast primaries and childhood ionizing radiation treatments: A possible gene/environment interaction
Phase Transformations in the High‐Temperature Form of Pure and TiO2‐Stabilized Ta2O5

The high-temperature forms of undoped tantalum pentoxide (H-100Ta2O5) and TiO2–modified Ta2O5 (H-92Ta2O5–8TiO2) were investigated by in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering measurements. Two unquenchable and reversible phase transformations were observed in pure H-Ta2O5, while only one was detected for TiO2-stabilized H-Ta2O5. Diffraction studies were consistent with displasive transformations, but hot-stage Raman spectroscopy indicated the existence of transient intermediate forms during the transformations. Use of complementary techniques enabled the reinterpretation of phase transformations in light of a newly proposed crystal structure model for H-Ta2O5,1 and emphasized the structural contributions of the oxygen sublattice.
Independent predictors of liver fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) may present with increased hepatic fibrosis progressing to end-stage liver disease. No factors that determine increasing fibrosis and histologically advanced disease have been recognized, thus, liver biopsy is recommended in all patients for diagnosis and prognosis. Our aim was to identify independent predictors of severe hepatic fibrosis in patients with NASH. One hundred and forty-four patients were studied. All patients underwent liver biopsy. Clinical and biochemical variables were examined with univariate and multivariate analysis. Thirty-seven (26%) patients had no abnormal fibrosis, 53 (37%) had mild fibrosis, 15 (10%) had moderate fibrosis, 14 (10%) had bridging fibrosis, and 25 (17%) had cirrhosis. In multivariate analysis, older age (P = .001), obesity (P = .002), diabetes mellitus (P = .009), and aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase (AST/ALT) ratio greater than 1 (P = .03) were significant predictors of severe liver fibrosis (bridging/cirrhosis). Body mass index (P = .003) was the only independent predictor of the degree of fat infiltration. Increased transferrin saturation correlated positively with the severity of fibrosis (P = .02) in univariate analysis, and there was a trend for more female patients among those with more advanced fibrosis (P = .09). However, iron studies or gender were not significant when controlled for age, obesity, diabetes, and AST/ALT ratio. In conclusion, older age, obesity, and presence of diabetes mellitus help identify those NASH patients who might have severe liver fibrosis. This is the subgroup of patients with NASH who would be expected to derive the most benefit from having a liver biopsy and considering investigational therapies.
LEGISLATIVE PROFESSIONALISM AND INFLUENCE ON STATE AGENCIES

This research focuses on the relationship between state legislative professionalism and legislative influence in state agencies. Principal-agent theory, which provides the theoretical underpinning for this research, suggests that there should be a positive relationship between legislative professionalism and legislative influence. King's (2000) legislative professionalism measure, along with a 1995 survey of state administrators in 15 states, are used to test this theory. The results of this analysis show that while there is a statistically significant relationship between legislative professionalism and legislative influence in agencies, the relationship is not in the expected direction. Additionally, legislative professionalism is not the strongest of the examined predictors of legislative influence. While the increased legislative capability of more professionalized legislatures may make them better able to influence agencies, based on these findings they do not appear to be particularly interested in exerting more influence over agencies. Potential reasons for which are discussed.
In vitro evaluation of red and green lettuce (Lactuca sativa) for functional food properties

Abstract Lettuce ( Lactuca sativa ) is an important leafy vegetable consumed fresh or in salad mixes. We have compared the functional food properties of selected commercial red and green lettuce varieties grown under field conditions. Both lettuce cultivars were extracted with water at biological (38 °C) and room temperatures (22 °C) at pH 2. The residues from each extraction were further extracted, sequentially with methanol and ethyl acetate. The extracts were evaluated for their in vitro lipid peroxidation (LPO) and cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX) inhibitory activities. Amongst the extracts tested, all three extracts of red lettuce showed higher LPO and COX-1 and -2 enzyme inhibitory activities than did the green lettuce extracts. Red lettuce contained a single anthocyanin, cyanidin-3- O -(6″-malonyl-β-glucopyranoside) ( 1 ), which immediately converted to cyanidin-3- O -(6″-malonyl-β-glucopyranoside methyl ester) ( 2 ) and cyanidin-3- O -β-glucopyranoside ( 3 ) under laboratory conditions. Anthocyanins 1 and 2 inhibited LPO by 88% and 91.5%, respectively, at 0.25 μM concentration. Also, they inhibited COX-2 enzyme by 78.9% and 84.3% and COX-1 by 64% and 65.8%, respectively, at 5 μM. The chicoric acid ( 4 ), amongst other phenolics, such as quercetin glucoside, ferulic and caffeic acids, isolated from both green and red lettuce, showed 85.6%, 45.6% and 94% of LPO, COX-1 and -2 enzyme inhibitions at 50 μM, respectively. This is the first report of the LPO, COX-1 and -2 enzyme inhibitory activities of compounds 1 , 2 and 4 . The variation of phenolics in the red and green lettuces, and specifically the lack of anthocyanins in green lettuce, might account for the higher biological activity obtained with the red variety in our study.
Basement membrane changes in psoriatic patients on long-term topical corticosteroid therapy

Summary It has been observed that the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects of topical steroids in psoriasis are counteracted by increasing instability of the disease, with rebound phenomena associated with the cessation of these drugs. We report the occurrence of multi-layered fragmentation and disorganization of the basal laminae in active, untreated psoriatic lesions, resolving and uninvolved, inadvertently steroid-treated psoriatic skin, as well as in a variety of non-psoriatic dermatoses treated with fluorinated topical steroids for prolonged periods. These changes, which were associated with a moderate to severe loss of dermal collagen, were not found in untreated and treated psoriatic controls, with or without concomitant α1-antitrypsin deficiency, who had not received steroids, suggesting that they were probably the consequence of prolonged fluorinated steroid use. This conclusion is supported by the observation that the largest number of layers (10-15) of fragmented basal laminae was noted in the patients who had received fluorinated steroids for 6 years or more, while those on 4 years or less of fluorinated steroid therapy exhibited only three to seven layers of fragmented basal laminae. In psoriatic lesions, the fragmentation of the basal lamina was associated with the presence of basal keratinocyte herniations (BKH), the frequency of which has been shown to parallel clinical psoriatic activity. The persistence of these electron-microscopic markers of psoriatic activity (i.e. BKH) in psoriatic plaques treated with prolonged fluorinated steroids suggests that loss of integrity of the basement membrane, as indicated by the presence of multi-layered fragmentation of the basal lamina, may account for the instability of the psoriatic lesions treated with prolonged topical fluorinated steroids.
Screening for kidney disease in adults with diabetes and prediabetes.

Purpose of reviewWorldwide, we are facing an increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, the number one cause of end-stage renal disease. It is imperative that chronic kidney disease among adults with diabetes mellitus be detected early when interventions are most effective in preventing end-stage r
Safe passage campaign to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSIs) in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)

ISSUE: Inconsistent use of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for prevention of CR-BSIs as well as lack of clear, concise communication between members of the healthcare team can result in CR-BSIs. Due to fluctuating CRBSI rates, a multiphased “safe passage” campaign was launched in our 50-bed NICU to address both issues. PROJECT: A teamwork and safety culture survey was conducted to provide a baseline measure. This was followed by a central line education and competency program. Each clinician received his or her own copy of a unit-produced DVD entitled “Safe Passage” which demonstrated hand hygiene, maximal sterile barrier precautions, and appropriate catheter site care. Once viewed, competency observation was required. Communication strategies consisted of coaching sessions for nurses and utilization of a standardized clinical communication tool known as SBAR (situation-background-assessment- recommendation/request). The tool helps set the expectation that relevant clinical information is going to be communicated each time the patient is discussed. RESULTS: More than 60% of eligible participants responded to the survey. Over half indicated a positive climate. Low-scoring items pertained to problem resolution and inability to express disagreement. Most clinical staff viewed the DVD and successfully completed the competency. Additional variations in central line management were discovered and eliminated as a result of the program. Coaching sessions for 60 nurses were conducted using theater-based communication tools for “finding-your-voice.” Sessions consisted primarily of role play around difficult clinical scenarios and challenging communications. Participation was followed by individual action plans and selection of a “buddy” for feedback and support. Evaluations have been extremely positive. SBAR scenarios pertaining to central line care and management were written. The scenarios were tested with and without the use of the tool. Communication tended to be more concise and factual and less narrative when the tool was used. Individual nurse training using the tool begins in February. LESSONS LEARNED: Eliminating variation in the use of CDC central line guidelines and successful nurse-physician communication is critical for the safe, efficient, and effective patient care. This project outlines a multifaceted, practical approach that we plan to replicate and spread to other areas of our organization.
Old fractures caused rare 8.6 magnitude earthquake

The 8.6 magnitude earthquake that occurred on 11 April 2012 100 kilometers off the coast of Sumatra was unusual in that it originated within the plate rather than at a plate boundary. In fact, it is the largest such earthquake in observed human history. The quake originated under the Wharton Basin in the Indian Ocean, where hundreds of kilometers of rock were under crushing tension, causing the plate to deform at its base. However, this deforming zone also absorbed tension as two plates, the Indian and Australian plates, rotated toward each other.
Aortic valve fibroelastoma presenting with myocardial infarction

Fibroelastoma is a rare, benign cardiac tumor. It is the second most common primary cardiac tumor and the most common primary cardiac valvular tumor. Nonvalvular endocardial location is rare and may be difficult to differentiate from thrombus and myxoma. Fibroelastoma consists of a small, highly papillary, pedunculated, and avascular tumor which is covered by a single layer of endothelium. It contains fine elastic fibrils arranged in whorls in a hyaline stroma. Fibroelastoma is mostly found incidentally at the time of echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, surgery, or autopsy. Symptomatic patients present with various clinical presentations, mainly cardiovascular in nature.
What does the consumer want from a DMO website? A study of US and Canadian tourists' perspectives.

Destination marketing organisations (DMOs) are facing intriguing challenges to provide quality information online in an era of information overload. Insufficient knowledge of tourist's online information preferences and search behaviour has hindered them from effective information management. This research aimed to examine consumers' perspectives of the information role of the DMOs and their preferences and attitudes towards what constitute engaging and relevant Web contents and functionalities for a DMO website. The results suggested that tourists' preference of information content varied across the different levels of DMO websites (country, state/province and city). In addition, the study revealed that travellers' information needs and behaviour change over the entire information consumption process, which include the before, during and post-trip period. Implications for DMOs were discussed at the end. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Lp inequality for ‘self-reciprocal’ polynomials

Abstract A polynomial f of degree at most n is said to be ‘self-reciprocal’ if f ( z ) ≡ z n f ( 1 / z ) . In this paper we discuss the growth of the integral means of such polynomials on | z | = R , as R → ∞ .
Evaluation of Instructional Technologies in Cyberspace Economics Teaching: Does Hyperlink Really Matter?

This paper examines the impact from one of the most commonly used online instructional technologies, simulation and reference hyperlinks, on the learning outcomes over varied course assessments in MBA Economics online courses. The empirical results confirm the positive impact of effective hyperlink insertion on both overall performance and individual student’s performance over exams and discussion board. The learning pattern of voluntary hyperlink usage is also explored. For the average learning outcome improvement, a compulsory usage of hyperlinks should be designed. The evaluation of appropriate usage in the case can be of significant practice to school administrators seeking to implement a required instructional technology in a rigorous and pedagogically sound manner.
Flightin is necessary for length determination, structural integrity, and large bending stiffness of insect flight muscle thick filaments.

Abstract Despite the fundamental role of thick filaments in muscle contraction, little is known about the mechanical behavior of these filaments and how myosin-associated proteins dictate differences between muscle types. In this study, we used atomic force microscopy to study the morphological and mechanical properties of fully hydrated native thick filaments isolated from indirect flight muscle (IFM) of normal and mutant Drosophila lacking flightin ( fln 0 ). IFM thick filaments from newly eclosed (0–1 h old) wild-type flies have a mean length of 3.04 ± 0.05 μm. In contrast, IFM thick filaments from newly eclosed fln 0 flies are more variable in length and, on average, are significantly longer (3.90 ± 1.33 μm) than wild-type filaments from flies of the same age. In the absence of flightin, thick filaments can attain lengths > 300% of wild-type filaments, indicating that flightin is required for setting the proper filament length in vivo . Filaments lacking flightin are structurally compromised, and filament preparations from fully matured 3- to 5-day-old adult fln 0 IFM yielded fragments of variable length much shorter than 3.20 ± 0.04 μm, the length obtained from wild-type flies of similar age. The persistence length, an index of bending stiffness, was calculated from measurements of filament end-to-end length and contour length. We show that the presence of flightin increases persistence length by more than 40% and that wild-type filaments increase in stiffness with age. These results indicate that flightin fulfills an essential role in defining the structural and mechanical properties of IFM thick filaments.
Transport of microbial biomass through the North Inlet ecosystem.

Tidal fluctuations and transports of total microbial biomass (measured as adenosine triphosphate [ATP]) were investigated at three marsh creeks comprising the major transfer points between the North Inlet marsh and the adjoining aquatic ecosystems. Two creeks, Town Creek and North Jones Creek, form the inlet mouth and are the only marsh-ocean exchange points. The third creek, South Jones Creek, connects to a brackish water embayment. The creeks were simultaneously sampled every 1.5 hours for 50 consecutive hours during neap tides (four tidal cycles) and 50 consecutive hours during spring tides of each season. At the inlet, ATP concentration fluctuated in phase with the tide during winter and fall and out of phase with the tide during the spring. Fluctuation patterns at South Jones Creek were irregular. The highest ATP concentrations were during the spring (mean=2.17 mg of ATP per m3) and the lowest concentrations were during the winter (mean=0.65 mg of ATP per m3). Net transports of ATP varied from tidal cycle to tidal cycle with regard to direction of transport (import or export) and magnitude. Net transports were small compared to large instantaneous transports and only 4 of 22 determinations of net transport were different from zero transport.
Characterization and functional analysis of a pollen-specific gene st901 in Solanum tuberosum

A pollen-specific gene, sb401, which was isolated from a cDNA library of in vitro geminated pollen of the diploid potato species Solanum berthaultii, belongs to the class of genes expressed late during pollen development. Using sb401 as a probe, a pollen-specific gene st901 was isolated from the genomic library of a potato species Solanum tuberosum cv. Desiree. Sequencing and RT-PCR analysis showed that the st901 genomic gene is 2,889 bp long, contains three exons and two introns, and encodes a putative polypeptide of 217 residues. The predicted protein sequence contains four imperfect repeated motifs of V–V–E–K–K–N/E–E; the core sequence of the repeats (K–K–N/E–E) resembles a microtubule-binding domain of the microtubule-associated protein MAP1B from mouse. The examination of a promoter–reporter construct in transgenic potato plants revealed that the st901 is expressed exclusively in mature pollen grains, which is consistent with the results of Northern blot and RT-PCR. For analysis of the function of st901, transgenic plants harboring antisense copies of st901 cDNA driven by a native st901 promoter were generated. Suppression of st901 gene in potato resulted in aberrant pollen at maturation and pollen viability of transgenic plants ranged from 4.4 to 14.8%, while that of control plants were more than 90%. These results strongly suggest that st901 has an essential role in pollen development.
Removal of FeO during Foaming of CaO-Al2O3-SiO2-FeO Slags by Low Carbon-Iron Melts

Removal of FeO from CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-FeO slags by low carbon-iron melts has been investigated experimentally at 1723 K. The rates of FeO removal were estimated using experimentally measured rate of pressure rise in the reactor due to evolution of CO (g). Several flash X-ray images were obtained during the course of these experiments. The experiments were conducted by dropping a small amount (10-90g) of slag over an Fe-C melt weighing 400g. Based on the rates of reduction of FeO dissolved in CaO-SiO2-Al2O3 slags by two types of Fe-C (1.3 and 2.2%) melts, it was determined that the reactions were independent of carbon concentration and followed first order rate kinetics with respect to FeO concentration. The reactions did not stop until metal and slag phases reached thermodynamic equilibrium with respect to the iron oxide in the slag. The calculated value for the rate constant was 7.34×10-4m/s and it was independent of slag weight or foam volume. Therefore, it was concluded that the presence of foam on the matal bath did not influence the mechanism of FeO removal from slag by Fe-C melts. Maximum height, hf, of the foam generated was established to be a linear function of slag weight, ws, present on the Fe-C melt surface and the relationship was given by hf=11.69+1.993ws
Neuronal activity and stress differentially regulate hippocampal and hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone expression in the immature rat

Corticotropin-releasing hormone, a major neuromodulator of the neuroendocrine stress response, is expressed in the immature hippocampus, where it enhances glutamate receptor-mediated excitation of principal cells. Since the peptide influences hippocampal synaptic efficacy, its secretion from peptidergic interneuronal terminals may augment hippocampal-mediated functions such as learning and memory. However, whereas information regarding the regulation of corticotropin-releasing hormone's abundance in CNS regions involved with the neuroendocrine responses to stress has been forthcoming, the mechanisms regulating the peptide's levels in the hippocampus have not yet been determined. Here we tested the hypothesis that, in the immature rat hippocampus, neuronal stimulation, rather than neuroendocrine challenge, influences the peptide's expression. Messenger RNA levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone in hippocampal CA1, CA3 and the dentate gyrus, as well as in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, were determined after cold, a physiological challenge that activates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal system in immature rats, and after activation of hippocampal neurons by hyperthermia. These studies demonstrated that, while cold challenge enhanced corticotropin-releasing hormone messenger RNA levels in the hypothalamus, hippocampal expression of this neuropeptide was unchanged. Secondly, hyperthermia stimulated expression of hippocampal immediate-early genes, as well as of corticotropin-releasing hormone. Finally, the mechanism of hippocampal corticotropin-releasing hormone induction required neuronal stimulation and was abolished by barbiturate administration. Taken together, these results indicate that neuronal stimulation may regulate hippocampal corticotropin-releasing hormone expression in the immature rat, whereas the peptide's expression in the hypothalamus is influenced by neuroendocrine challenges.
Virtual Reality Visualization of Microscopic Traffic Simulations

Traditional microscopic traffic simulations visualize simulation results in two dimensions. Visualization in three dimensions provides additional versatility to these simulations and allows the utilization of their results for additional purposes. An approach to visualization of CORSIM simulations in three dimensions with the use of a personal computer-based virtual reality package is presented. The key to this approach is translation of the network geometry and traffic data, which is done by a specially designed middleware program. A practical simulation problem is presented to demonstrate the visualization procedure and its assessment. Potential improvements over the current work are discussed.
Prevalence of Glomerulopathies in Autopsies of Patients Infected with the Hepatitis C Virus

ABSTRACT Background Several reports have shown hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection to be associated with various extrahepatic manifestations, including certain forms of glomerulopathy. The most frequently reported glomerulonephritis in patients infected with HCV is either membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) or cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis, and HCV has been directly implicated in their pathogenesis. Other investigators have reported a higher prevalence of HCV infection in patients with membranous glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). However, the prevalence of these glomerulopathies in patients infected with HCV is unknown. Methods We conducted a 5-year retrospective review to determine prevalence of glomerulopathies in autopsies of patients infected with HCV. The renal histology on the autopsy reports was carefully reviewed for appropriate diagnosis of glomerulonephritis. Results Of the 114 autopsies of patients infected with HCV during this period, the majority had been incarcerated and had state-mandated autopsies. The mean age of the patients was 46.8 ± 10 years (± SD; range, 19–87). Of the 114 patients, 46 were white, 37 were African American, and 31 were Hispanic. The glomerulopathies seen were 3 MPGN, 2 membranous, 3 HIV-associated nephropathy, 1 idiopathic FSGS, 1 minimal change glomerulonephritis, and 3 diabetic nephropathy. Conclusion We conclude that although HCV is reported to be associated with membranoproliferative and membranous glomerulonephritis, their prevalence in these patients is not common.
Metabolism of dichlorobiphenyls by hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450.

In vitro rat hepatic microsomal metabolism of the monochlorobiphenyls (MCBs) 2-, 3- and 4-chlorobiphenyl, has been investigated as a model for the metabolism of polychlorinated biphenyl pollutants. MCB metabolism was catalyzed by cytochrome P-450, as indicated by a dependence on NADPH and O(2), inhibition by 2-diethylaminoethyl-2,2-diphenylpropylacetate (SKF 525-A), metyrapone and CO, and the formation of type I difference spectra, on the addition of MCBs to microsomes. All MCBs yielded a 4'-monohydroxy MCB as the major metabolite, as determined by mass and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, dechlorination to 4-hydroxybiphenyl, and high-pressure liquid chromatography retention times. Minor monohydroxy and dihydroxy metabolites were also produced from the MCBs. The regioselectivity of control cytochrome P-450 for metabolism of MCBs at the 4' position was not altered by preinduction of cytochrome P-450 with 2,4,2',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (TCB) or cytochrome P-448 with 3,4,3', 4'-TCB. 2-Chlorobiphenyl was metabolized only by control and induced cytochrome P-450; 3- and 4-chlorobiphenyl were metabolized by control and by induced cytochrome P-450 and P-448. Thus, the regioselectivity of metabolism of MCBs is independent of the chlorine position or the form of the induced cytochrome involved, but the extent of metabolism of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is determined by induction of the hepatic cytochromes P-450.
Public relations and health diplomacy

Abstract Authors have noted the convergence of public relations and public diplomacy, yet public relations scholars have ignored an important aspect of public diplomacy–health diplomacy. Health diplomacy involves activities that improve global health while strengthening relationships between the United States and peoples abroad. This article encourages greater public relations involvement in health diplomacy.
Polymerization conditions and electrooptic properties of polymer-stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystals

Electrooptic and optical characteristics of polymer-stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystal (PSFLC) materials prepared under different conditions were characterized. Polymerization behavior and segregation properties were also investigated. The rate of polymerization during formation of PSFLCs increases significantly as the order of the LC phase increases and the temperature decreases for the monomers employed. Although the polymerization behavior is similar for these different monomers, trends in electrooptic behavior are considerably different. For C6M and p-phenylene diacrylate PSFLCs polymerized in ordered liquid crystalline phases, the temperature of polymerization and the corresponding liquid crystalline phase in which the polymerization occurs have little impact on the ultimate electrooptic and optical properties. The electrooptic properties of 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA) PSFLC systems, on the other hand, show a large dependence on the polymerization temperature. Both the ferroelectric polariz...
Evaluation of Paired-End Sequencing Strategies for Detection of Genome Rearrangements in Cancer

Paired-end sequencing is emerging as a key technique for assessing genome rearrangements and structural variation on a genome-wide scale. This technique is particularly useful for detecting copy-neutral rearrangements, such as inversions and translocations, which are common in cancer and can produce novel fusion genes. We address the question of how much sequencing is required to detect rearrangement breakpoints and to localize them precisely using both theoretical models and simulation. We derive a formula for the probability that a fusion gene exists in a cancer genome given a collection of paired-end sequences from this genome. We use this formula to compute fusion gene probabilities in several breast cancer samples, and we find that we are able to accurately predict fusion genes in these samples with a relatively small number of fragments of large size. We further demonstrate how the ability to detect fusion genes depends on the distribution of gene lengths, and we evaluate how different parameters of a sequencing strategy impact breakpoint detection, breakpoint localization, and fusion gene detection, even in the presence of errors that suggest false rearrangements. These results will be useful in calibrating future cancer sequencing efforts, particularly large-scale studies of many cancer genomes that are enabled by next-generation sequencing technologies.
Selective expression of protein F1/(GAP-43) mRNA in pyramidal but not granule cells of the hippocampus.

Abstract Protein F1/GAP-43 is a protein kinase C substrate associated with axonal growth and synaptic plasticity. We used in situ hybridization in rat brain to determine the cellular distribution of its gene expression. Throughout the septotemporal axis of the adult hippocampus, pyramidal cells express F1/GAP-43 mRNA, but granule cells do not. To determine if F1/GAP-43 expression in granule cells ever occurs, we studied its expression in development during mossy fiber outgrowth, when expression should be maximal. Quantitation of relative hybridization levels in the hippocampus revealed a modest increase in granule cell F1/GAP-43 mRNA coincident with mossy fiber outgrowth. But even the peak hybridization in granule cells on day 16 was 75% less than in pyramidal cells. The distribution of grains was over the entire granule cell layer at day 9, but was restricted by day 20 to the inner aspect of the layer, the site of the youngest cells which are still sending out axonal processes. Cell-selective expression of F1/GAP-43 within a particular brain structure was not restricted to the hippocampus. In cerebellum, F1/GAP-43 hybridization was detected in granule cells but not Purkinje cells; in olfactory bulb, mitral cells but not internal granule cells; in habenula, cells in the lateral but not medial nucleus; in substantia nigra, pars compacta cells but not cells in pars reticulata. Neurons containing biogenic amines exhibited intense F1/GAP-43 hybridization: substantia nigra pars compacta (dopamine), the locus coeruleus (norepinephrine), and dorsal raphe (serotonin). In contrast, cholinergic neurons exhibited little (basal forebrain) or no (medial habenula) hybridization. F1/GAP-43 expression is not restricted to a specific cell type and is not correlated with axon length. High F1/GAP-43 expression is apparent in many neurons having either neuromodulatory or memory storage functions. We propose that F1/GAP-43 is important for accelerating process outgrowth and synaptic remodeling, rather than directing growth itself.
Sulfonamides in the Control of Pullorum Disease I. Methods of Infection

Abstract PULLORUM disease is of great economic importance to the poultryman. Much progress has been made in the control and eradication of this disease by means of the blood test; however, outbreaks of the disease still occur indicating that the materials used in testing and/or testing methods must be improved. In order to aid the poultryman where acute outbreaks of pullorum disease occur various sulfonamides which may be of benefit have been investigated. Severens, Roberts and Card (1945) found that 0.5 percent sulfamerazine or 2 percent sulfadiazine protected a high percentage of chicks exposed to artificial inoculation of Salmonella pullorum. Mullen (1946) reported that 0.5 percent sulfamerazine in the feed reduced the mortality in turkey poults naturally infected with S. pullorum. Anderson (1946) reported that 0.5 percent sulfamerazine in the feed reduced the mortality in chicks that were naturally infected with S. pullorum. Mattis, et al. (1946) found that no significant . . .
Variable-focus method for characterizing general astigmatic laser beams

We demonstrate a variable-focus technique for characterizing the beam quality of general astigmatic (twisted) laser beams. There are no moving parts, only a focus-tunable lens. Measurements with this method match those made by the standard technique.
Multiple domains mediate heme control of the yeast activator HAP1

The activity of the yeast activator HAP1in vivo requires heme. A heme responsive domain of HAP1 was identified previously. It is adjacent to the DNA-binding domain, and appears to block DNA binding in the absence of heme. Here we describe a novel genetic selection which yielded mutants of HAP1 that are independent of heme when assayed for activation. These mutants define a second region of HAP1, close to the activation domain, which also controls its response to heme.
Monoterpene concentrations in fresh, senescent, and decaying foliage of singleleaf pinyon (Pinus monophylla Torr. & Frem.: Pinaceae) from the western Great Basin.

Senescent foliage from pines is potentially a large contributor to the total monoterpene content of the litter layer, and the availability of these compounds as phytotoxins may result from release of these compounds into the vapor phase. In order to determine the fate of several monoterpene hydrocarbons in the natural environment, we examined their concentrations in fresh, senescent, and decaying needles from 32 single-leaf pinyon pine (Pinus monophylla Torr. & Frem.: Pinaceae) trees growing at two different locations. Total monoterpene content was highest in the fresh needles (mean=5.6 ± 2.2 mg/g extracted air dry weight), but also remained relatively high in senescent needles (mean=3.6 ±1.8 mg/g extracted air dry weight), either still attached to the tree or forming the freshest layer of understory litter. Decaying needles within a dark decomposing layer of litter material 5–20 cm from the surface were found to contain much lower amounts of total monoterpenes (average: =0.12 ±0.06 mg/g extracted air dry weight). Further investigation of the fate of these compounds in the pinyon understory is required to determine if these hydrocarbons are indeed exerting phytotoxic characteristics.