cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Soluble CD14 and CD14 Variants, Other Inflammatory Markers, and Glucose Dysregulation in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study

OBJECTIVE Experimental studies have implicated soluble (s)CD14, an effector of lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation, in insulin resistance, but its role in human metabolic endotoxemia has not been studied. We evaluated sCD14 in relation to dysglycemia in older adults and how this compares to other markers of inflammation. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We investigated associations of sCD14, interleukin-6 (IL-6), CRP, and white blood cell (WBC) count with insulin resistance (quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index and HOMA 2 of insulin resistance) and incident type 2 diabetes in a population-based cohort of older adults. We also assessed the causal role of sCD14 in insulin resistance using an instrumental variable approach by Mendelian randomization. RESULTS After adjustment for conventional risk factors, each of the four biomarkers showed positive cross-sectional associations with both insulin resistance measures. These associations persisted after mutual adjustment for all markers except sCD14. Over a median follow-up of 11.6 years, 466 cases of diabetes occurred. All biomarkers except sCD14 were positively associated with diabetes, although only WBC count remained associated (hazard ratio 1.43 per doubling [95% CI 1.07, 1.90]) after mutual adjustment. Instrumental variable analysis did not support a causal role for sCD14 in insulin resistance. CONCLUSIONS Among older adults, sCD14 was associated with insulin resistance, but this disappeared after adjustment for other biomarkers, showed no evidence of a causal basis, and was not accompanied by a similar association with diabetes. IL-6, CRP, and WBC count were each associated with insulin resistance and diabetes, WBC count most robustly. These findings do not support a central role for sCD14, but highlight the preeminence of WBC count as an inflammatory measure of diabetes risk in this population.
Engineering a Virus-Like Particle as an Antigenic Platform for a Pfs47-Targeted Malaria Transmission-Blocking Vaccine

We recently characterized Pfs47, a protein expressed on the surface of sexual stages and ookinetes of Plasmodium falciparum, as a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) target. Mice immunization induced antibodies that conferred strong transmission-reducing activity (TRA) at a concentration of 200 μg/mL. Here, we sought to optimize the Pfs47 vaccine to elicit higher titers of high-affinity antibodies, capable of inducing strong TRA at a lower concentration. We report the development and evaluation of a Pfs47-based virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine generated by conjugating our 58 amino acid Pfs47 antigen to Acinetobacter phage AP205-VLP using the SpyCatcher:SpyTag adaptor system. AP205-Pfs47 complexes (VLP-P47) formed particles of ~22 nm diameter that reacted with polyclonal anti-Pfs47 antibodies, indicating that the antigen was accessible on the surface of the particle. Mice immunized with VLP-P47 followed by a boost with Pfs47 monomer induced significantly higher antibody titers, with higher binding affinity to Pfs47, than mice that received two immunizations with either VLP-P47 (VLP-P47/VLP-P47) or the Pfs47 monomer (P47/P47). Purified IgG from VLP-P47/P47 mice had strong TRA (83–98%) at concentrations as low as 5 μg/mL. These results indicate that conjugating the Pfs47 antigen to AP205-VLP significantly enhanced antigenicity and confirm the potential of Pfs47 as a TBV candidate.
Teacher voices from an online elementary mathematics community: examining perceptions of professional learning

This study compares web usage data with interviews from 41 participants, who are members of an online professional development site called the Everyday Mathematics Virtual Learning Community (VLC), to explore how elementary school teachers learn from classroom video. Web usage data reveal that the commentary surrounding video posted to the VLC is sparse and surface level, possibly indicating a lack of serious attention to the videos. Interview data, however, indicate that participants felt they learned from this resource. Participants reported that the videos provided them with the opportunity to view and reflect on model lessons, plan curricula, and consider student thinking, among other learning outcomes. Participants also identified key factors that prevented them from posting comments to the site to convey their learning. These results can be used to understand not only how teachers perceive their own learning from classroom video, but also to redesign online professional development experiences to promote expression of that learning.
The State of American Federalism 2019–2020: Polarized and Punitive Intergovernmental Relations

The state of American federalism is characterized by polarization and punitiveness. As in previous years, political polarization continues to shape intergovernmental relations. But we also identify punitiveness as an increasingly prevalent aspect of vertical power sharing. Punitive federalism describes the national government’s use of threats and punishment to suppress state and local actions that run contrary to its policy preferences. In this Annual Review of American Federalism overview article, we introduce the concept of punitive federalism and discuss its application to contemporary public policy. We also highlight federalism implications concerning the COVID-19 pandemic; discuss recent policy developments concerning the environment, gender identity, health care, immigration, reproductive choice, and sexual orientation; and review recent Supreme Court decisions that impact intergovernmental relations.
Photoreactivity of LY277359 maleate, a 5-hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist, in solution.

Compound LY277359 maleate undergoes a photoinduced solvolysis reaction in water to generate the corresponding hydroxylated product and release chloride. Attempts to stabilize a parenteral formulation of the compound led to an investigation of possible reaction mechanisms. The data are consistent with a mechanism involving homolytic cleavage of the aryl–chloride bond followed by electron transfer to give an aryl cation intermediate. The cation thus formed reacts with surrounding nucleophiles to give the substituted product. A kinetic expression for reaction rate was derived from the mechanism, and various components of the rate constant were evaluated experimentally. The reaction is slowed with the addition of chloride, presumably via a common ion effect (enhanced retroreaction). In the absence of added chloride, the reaction can be described kinetically by an initiation term. An inner filter effect is also observed, where increasing amounts of the hydroxylated product slow the reaction. Experimental data for observed rate constants as a function of starting concentration and light intensity are fit with good correlation to an equation describing the filter effect. Additional studies evaluated the effects of various structural features of the parent compound on the rate of the reaction in glass containers. It was determined that reactivity was dependent on two features: (1) the ortho positioning of the carboxyl and ether groups, which shifted an absorption band above the container cutoff; and (2) the para orientation of the chloro group to the ether, which is para activating in the photoexcited state.
Olfactory neuron turnover in adult Drosophila

Sustained neurogenesis occurs in the olfactory epithelium of several species, including humans, to support olfactory function throughout life. We recently developed a modified lineage tracing method to identify adult neurogenesis in Drosophila. By applying this technique, here we report on the continuous generation of Olfactory Sensory Neurons (OSN) in the antennae of adult Drosophila. New neurons develop sensory dendrites and project axons targeting diverse glomeruli of the antennal lobes in the brain. Furthermore, we identified sustained apoptosis of OSN in the antennae of adult flies, revealing unexpected turnover in the adult olfactory system. Our results substantiate Drosophila as a compelling platform to expedite research about mechanisms and compounds promoting neuronal regeneration, circuit remodeling and its contribution to behavior in the adult.
Histomorphometrical study of the testis in the desert Rodent, Gerbillus tarabuli, sexually immature and adult during the annual reproductive cycle.

Our interest in the testicular study of the desert rodent, Gerbillus tarabuli, would provide a better comprehension of the seasonality of spermatogenesis in rodents. We thus performed a biometric, histomorphometric and statistical analyses in Gerbillus tarabuli sexually immature and adult during the annual reproductive cycle (active and regressed states of gonadal activity). For that, fixed testes were embedded in paraffin. Sections were stained using the modified Heidenhain Azan and then were subjected to morphometric measurements at the light microscopic level. The biometric study revealed a positive correlation between the body weight and the maturity state only, with an average of 20.8 ± 2.92 g in sexually immature Gerbils, 37.40 ± 1.86 g in the sexually quiescent adults (p .05), while the testes weight (sexually immatures = 0.02 ± 0.003 g, sexually quiescent adults = 0.13 ± 0.01 g; p < .001 and sexually active adults = 0.27 ± 0.01 g; p < .001) and the gonadosomatic index (sexually immatures = 0.09 ± 0.02%, sexually quiescent adults = 0.36 ± 0.04%; p < .01 and sexually active adults = 0.68 ± 0.07%; p < .01) varied according to the maturity state and as well as to the season in the adults. Through the histomorphometric study, the tubular diameter showed a continuous increase from sexually immature Gerbils (72.83 ± 7.57 μm) to sexually quiescent adults (99.45 ± 4.34 μm) p < .05 then to sexually active adults (182.58 ± 5.22 μm); p < .001, this is explained by the appearance of a large lumen after puberty in the quiescent (26.32 ± 1.28 μm); p < .001 and the enlargement of the seminiferous epithelium in actives (75.11 ± 1.81 μm); p < .001. Besides, the nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio of Leydig cells (sexually immatures = 0.5 ± 0.02) diminishes significantly after puberty in the rest period (0.42 ± 0.03); p < .05 and then during the active period (0.24 ± 0.01); p < .001. These striking biometric and morphometric differences in Gerbillus tarabuli testis between sexually immature Gerbils, sexually quiescent and active adults, follow the photoperiod-induced changes in endocrine and exocrine functions and prove that Gerbillus tarabuli is a useful model to study histo-physiological relationships in the testis in order to develop a more complete understanding of spermatogenesis phenomenon.
Human health risk from consumption of aquatic species in arsenic-contaminated shallow urban lakes.

Abstract Arsenic (As) causes cancer and non-cancer health effects in humans. Previous research revealed As concentrations over 200 μg g−1 in lake sediments in the south-central Puget Sound region affected by the former ASARCO copper smelter in Ruston, WA, and significant bioaccumulation of As in plankton in shallow lakes. Enhanced uptake occurs during summertime stratification and near-bottom anoxia when As is mobilized from sediments. Periodic mixing events in shallow lakes allow dissolved As to mix into oxygenated waters and littoral zones where biota reside. We quantify As concentrations and associated health risks in human-consumed tissues of sunfish [pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus)], crayfish [signal (Pacifastacus leniusculus) and red swamp (Procambarus clarkii)], and snails [Chinese mystery (Bellamya chinensis)] from lakes representing a gradient of As contamination and differing mixing regimes. In three shallow lakes with a range of arsenic in profundal sediments (20 to 206 μg As g−1), mean arsenic concentrations ranged from 2.9 to 46.4 μg g−1 in snails, 2.6 to 13.9 μg g−1 in crayfish, and 0.07 to 0.61 μg g−1 in sunfish. Comparatively, organisms in the deep, contaminated lake (208 μg g−1 in profundal sediments) averaged 11.8 μg g−1 in snails and 0.06 μg g−1 in sunfish. Using inorganic As concentrations, we calculated that consuming aquatic species from the most As-contaminated shallow lake resulted in 4–10 times greater health risks compared to the deep lake with the same arsenic concentrations in profundal sediments. We show that dynamics in shallow, polymictic lakes can result in greater As bioavailability compared to deeper, seasonally stratified lakes. Arsenic in oxygenated waters and littoral sediments was more indicative of exposure to aquatic species than profundal sediments, and therefore we recommend that sampling methods focus on these shallow zones to better indicate the potential for uptake into organisms and human health risk.
The Campaign Finance Safeguards of Federalism

This article provides the first systematic account of the relationship between campaign finance and federalism. Federalism — a fundamental characteristic of the constitutional structure — depends for its stability on political mechanisms. States and their advocates and representatives in Congress, federal agencies, political parties, intergovernmental lobbying groups, and other political forums work together to check federal interference with state governments. Entire normative theories of federalism depend on the assumption that this system of political safeguards is working effectively in the background. But the federalism and constitutional theory literatures lack a rigorous account of the effects of dramatic political change on pro-federalism political dynamics. Building that account is particularly timely now. Political safeguards work only if states retain significant political influence. But, as recent elections vividly demonstrate, Citizens United has created a new class of political operators — of which Super PACs are emblematic — whose potential political influence may be limitless. This article’s thesis is that Super PACs have the capacity to undermine all conventional political safeguards of federalism, pushing states far enough down the hierarchy of political influence to dramatically reshape the our system of government. This highlights the underappreciated extent to which Citizens United may have long-term structural consequences other than its effects on democratic representation. These developments have significant normative implications for federalism theory — at a minimum, they require reexamining the common assumption, central to numerous normative claims, that national political process is a durable channel for state self-defense. They also suggest new normative claims concerning campaign finance doctrine. If sustaining federalism is a compelling governmental interest, then federalism problems may justify new campaign spending restrictions despite the First Amendment and the reasoning of Citizens United, which otherwise appear to preclude further reforms.
Prosthetic Salvage of Surgical Misadventures in Implant Placement

Summary Both the diagnosis and correction of problematic fixture positions have been enhanced in recent years with the evolution of components specifically designed for compromised situations. Whereas slight or severe fixture angulations may require custom component construction, premachined, angled abutments for hexagonal based implants can be effective in correcting moderate fixture angulation with excellent esthetic potential.
HIV knowledge, risk perception, and testing behaviors among college students in South Carolina.

Objective: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a critical public health challenge and disproportionately affects young adults, racial minorities, and residents of the Southern United States....
Meloxicam with Filgrastim may Reduce Oxidative Stress in Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells during Mobilization of Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cells in Patients with Multiple Myeloma.

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a potentially curative therapy but requires collection of sufficient blood stem cells (PBSC). Up to 40 % of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) fail to collect an optimum number of PBSC using filgrastim only and often require costly plerixafor rescue. The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam mobilizes PBSC in mice, nonhuman primates and normal volunteers, and has the potential to attenuate mobilization-induced oxidative stress on stem cells. In a single-center study, we evaluated whether a meloxicam regimen prior to filgrastim increases collection and/or homeostasis of CD34+ cells in MM patients undergoing ASCT. Mobilization was not significantly different with meloxicam in this study; a median of 2.4 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg were collected in the first apheresis and 9.2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg were collected overall for patients mobilized with meloxicam-filgrastim, versus 4.1 × 106 in first apheresis and 7.2 × 106/kg overall for patients mobilized with filgrastim alone. CXCR4 expression was reduced on CD34+ cells and a higher CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio was observed after mobilization with meloxicam-filgrastim. All patients treated with meloxicam-filgrastim underwent ASCT, with neutrophil and platelet engraftment similar to filgrastim alone. RNA sequencing of purified CD34+ cells from 22 MM patients mobilized with meloxicam-filgrastim and 10 patients mobilized with filgrastim only identified > 4,800 differentially expressed genes (FDR < 0.05). Enrichment analysis indicated significant attenuation of oxidative phosphorylation and translational activity, possibly mediated by SIRT1, suggesting meloxicam may counteract oxidative stress during PBSC collection. Our results indicate that meloxicam was a safe, low-cost supplement to filgrastim mobilization, which appeared to mitigate HSPC oxidative stress, and may represent a simple means to lessen stem cell exhaustion and enhance graft quality.
Chapter 30. Vitamin D Metabolites and Their Analogs

Publisher Summary Hormones responsible to regulate calcium and phosphorus metabolism have received considerable attention in the treatment of such disorders as hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, vitamin D-resistant rickets, and its possible application in the treatment of steroid and postmenopausal osteoporosis. Vitamin D undergoes its first obligatory metabolic activation reaction in the liver. Two hepatic vitamin D-25-hydroxylases functions are: (1) a microsomal enzyme is specifically responsible for the hydroxylation of vitamin D to 25- hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) and (2) in addition to 1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 , another major metabolite of vitamin D is synthesized in the kidney. This compound has been chemically identified as 4R, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 (24R, 25-(OH) 2 D 3 ). Its role remains controversial, but it is synthesized under conditions where the 1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 synthesis is repressed. To assess the biological activity of the metabolites of vitamin D and its analogs, the systems that have been used are stimulation of intestinal calcium transport in vivo ; stimulation of calcium mobilization from bone in vivo ; mineralization of rachitic bone in vivo ; in vitro binding to chick intestinal cytosol receptor; in vitro resorption of embryonic bone; and stimulation of intestinal calcium binding protein synthesis in embryonic intestine in culture. The most active of the known vitamin D analogs is 24, 24-F 2 -1, and 25-(OH) 2 D 3 . This compound has been prepared in an attempt to examine the importance of 24-hydroxylation in the function of vitamin D.
Anomalous Transport in Current Sheets

A review of several microinstabilities that have been suggested as possible anomalous transport mechanisms in current sheets is presented. The specific application is to a ‘field reversed plasma’ which is relevant to the so-called ‘diffusion region’ of a reconnection process. The linear and nonlinear properties of the modes are discussed, and each mode is assessed as to its importance in reconnection processes based upon these properties. It is concluded that the two most relevant instabilities are the ion acoustic instability and the lower-hybrid-drift instability. However, each instability has limitations as far as reconnection is concerned, and more research is needed in this area.
Propagation of pacemaker activity in the guinea-pig antrum.

Cyclical periods of depolarization (slow waves) underlie peristaltic contractions involved in mixing and emptying of contents in the gastric antrum. Slow waves originate from a myenteric network of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC-MY). In this study we have visualized the sequence and propagation of Ca2+ transients associated with pacemaker potentials in the ICC network and longitudinal (LM) and circular muscle (CM) layers of the isolated guinea-pig gastric antrum. Gastric antrum was dissected to reveal the ICC-MY network, loaded with Fluo-4 AM and activity was monitored at 37°C. Ca2+ waves propagated throughout the ICC-MY network at an average velocity of 3.24 ± 0.12 mm s−1 at a frequency of 4.87 ± 0.16 cycles min−1 (n= 4). The propagation of the Ca2+ wave often appeared ‘step-like’, with separate regions of the network being activated after variable delays. The direction of propagation was highly variable (Δ angle of propagation 44.3 ± 10.9 deg per cycle) and was not confined to the axes of the longitudinal or circular muscle. Ca2+ waves appeared to spread out radially from the site of initiation. The initiating Ca2+ wave in ICC-MY was correlated to secondary Ca2+ waves in intramuscular interstial cells of Cajal, ICC-IM, and smooth muscle cells, and the local distortion (contraction) in a field of view. TTX (1 μm) had little effect on slow wave or pacemaker potential activity, but 2-APB (50 μm) blocked all Ca2+ waves, indicating a pivotal role for intracellular Ca2+ stores. Nicardipine (2 μm) eliminated the Ca2+ transient generated by smooth muscle, but did not affect the fast upstroke associated with ICC-MY. These results indicate that slow waves follow a sequence of activation, beginning with the ICC-MY and ICC-IM network, followed later by a sustained Ca2+ transient in the muscle layers that is responsible for contraction.
Deactivation of tannin in high tannin milo by treatment with urea.

Abstract Experiments were conducted to determine the effectiveness of urea in deactivating tannin in high tannin milo. High tannin milo (Pioneer B 815, 3.4±.3% tannin) was reconstituted with aqueous urea solutions to give combinations of 26, 30, and 34% moisture with 2, 3, and 4% urea (percentage of urea per dry weight of milo). All treatments were maintained at 25°C and were effective in deactivating tannin with no differences among moisture or urea content. The average rate of tannin deactivation was 68±2% d −1 . Temperature affected rate of tannin deactivation in milo reconstituted to 30% moisture and 3% urea when stored at 25 or 60°C. Rate of tannin deactivation was 44±5 and 89±18% d −1 at 25 and 60°C, respectively. Tannin in high tannin milo can be deactivated rapidly and completely by reconstitution with aqueous urea. These studies demonstrate that tannin is deactivated completely under conditions where urea is an effective preservative of high moisture milo.
Deregulated Expression of c-myc in Megakaryocytes of Transgenic Mice Increases Megakaryopoiesis and Decreases Polyploidization

Platelets, essential for vascular integrity and hemostasis, fragment from polyploid megakaryocytes, characterized by their endomitotic cell cycle. We studied the influence of overexpression of c-myc oncogene on megakaryopoiesis and endomitosis in vivo, using transgenic mice carrying c-myc fused to the estrogen receptor under the control of the platelet factor 4 (PF4) megakaryocyte-specific promoter. The rationale behind this strategy was to obtain controlled overexpression of an active c-Myc, depending on the estrogen level in the mouse circulation. Analysis of these transgenic mice revealed that the bone marrow of female transgenic mice or of estrogen-injected male transgenic mice, but not of age-matched transgenic males nor nontransgenic females, contained frequent immature myeloid cells and an increased number of megakaryocytes. Deregulated expression of c-Myc shifted the normal ploidy profile of megakaryocytes due to a significant increase in proliferating megakaryocytes and a decrease in the fraction of ploidizing cells. These transgenic mice represent a novel in vivo model for a Myc-induced myeloproliferative disorder which can be controlled.
A Fast Evolution Strategies Based Approach To Image Registration

An image registration approach based on Evolution Strategies is proposed. In image registration, an invariant reference needs to be established within each source image, which is unavailable in many cases. To solve this problem, feature configuration (which is defined as the cluster of feature vectors on an image representing homogeneous feature distribution,) is employed to describe the object inside the scene. Instead of finding the correspondence of the entire image, the spatial relationships of the feature configuration in every source image are discovered with Evolution Strategies (ES). While one approach, even this one, may not be suitable for every image domain, the ES approach has many advantages. Compared to some methods, it is computationally effective; compared to other, it is capable of discovering transformations of larger scope (e.g., greater rotation angles or translation distances etc.) The search structure we use is an ellipsoid. The results from various images prove it to be an efficient and effective method.
Sibling Relationships in Middle and Older Adulthood: A Review of the Literature

Research on various aspects of the sibling relationship in adulthood, with a focus on middle and older adulthood, will be reviewed. Attachment theory, which has often been utilized to explain relationships among siblings, will be discussed. Equity theory, as it relates to siblings' roles as caregivers, will also be examined. Closeness among siblings, social support, elderly siblings, and death of a sibling are among the specific topics that will be addressed. A number of factors contributing to the quality of the sibling relationship will also be considered. These include the gender and marital status of the siblings. Finally, future research ideas concerning adult siblings will be suggested.
Stereospecific Hydration of the Δ9 Double Bond of Oleic Acid

Abstract A soluble (105,000 x g supernatant) enzyme preparation from a pseudomonad has been obtained which catalyzes the interconversion of oleic acid and 10d-hydroxystearic acid. Evidence compatible with a mechanism involving a hydration of the double bond is presented. The crude enzyme preparation also catalyzes the formation of Δ10-trans-octadecenoic acid from either oleic acid or 10d-hydroxystearic acid. The enzyme also catalyzes the formation of 10-hydroxypalmitic acid from palmitoleic acid. The enzyme did not catalyze the formation of an olefinic acid from 9d-hydroxystearic acid.
Neurologist consistency in interpreting information provided by an interactive visualization software for deep brain stimulation postoperative programming assistance.

Introduction Post-operative programming in deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy for movement disorders can be challenging and time consuming. Providing the neurologist with tools to visualize the electrode location relative to the patient’s anatomy along with models of tissue activation and statistical data can therefore be very helpful. In this study, we evaluate the consistency between neurologists in interpreting and using such information provided by our DBS programming assistance software.
Fast content-based multimedia retrieval technique using compressed data

In this paper, we present a novel technique that can be used for fast similarity-based indexing and retrieval of both image and video databases in distributed environments. We assume that image or video databases are stored in the compressed form using standard techniques such as JPEG for images, and M-JPEG or MPEG for videos. The existing techniques, proposed in the literature, use computationally intensive features and cost functions for content-based image and video retrieval and indexing. The proposed algorithm uses an innovative approach based on histograms of DC coefficients only, and therefore is computationally less expensive than the other approaches.
Palimpsest Drainage and Chungchou Photogeologic Anomaly, Taiwan: GEOLOGICAL NOTES

Aerial photographs of an area in the western coastal plain of Formosa showed the superposition of a radial drainage pattern on the normal dendritic drainage developed on the gently west-dipping regional slope. Comparison with topographic maps of the area confirmed the existence of a small north-south-trending topographic high, and available geophysical data showed that the photogeologic anomaly is located at the south end of a buried anticlinal structure. Recent and perhaps continuing deformation is probably responsible for the doming and diversion of drainage.
Cadmium exposure affects mitochondrial bioenergetics and gene expression of key mitochondrial proteins in the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica Gmelin (Bivalvia: Ostreidae)

Cadmium is a ubiquitous and extremely toxic metal, which strongly affects mitochondrial function of aquatic organisms in vitro; however, nothing is known about the in vivo effects of sublethal concentrations of this metal on mitochondrial bioenergetics. We have studied the effects of exposure to 0 (control) or 25 microg L-1 (Cd-exposed) Cd2+ on mitochondrial function and gene expression of key mitochondrial proteins in the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica. Cadmium exposure in vivo resulted in considerable accumulation of cadmium in oyster mitochondria and in a significant decrease of ADP-stimulated respiration (state 3) by 30% indicating impaired capacity for ATP production. The decrease in state 3 respiration was similar to the level of inhibition expected from the direct effects of cadmium accumulated in oyster mitochondria. On the other hand, while no effect on proton leak was expected based on the mitochondrial accumulation of cadmium, Cd-exposed oysters in fact showed a significant decline of the proton leak rate (state 4+respiration) by 40%. This suggested a downregulation of proton leak, which correlated with a decrease in mRNA expression of a mitochondrial uncoupling protein UCP6 and two other potential uncouplers, mitochondrial substrate carriers MSC-1 and MSC-2. Expression of other key mitochondrial proteins including cytochrome c oxidase, adenine nucleotide transporter and voltage dependent anion channel was not affected by cadmium exposure. Adenylate energy charge (AEC) was significantly lower in Cd-exposed oysters; however, this was due to higher steady state ADP levels and not to the decrease in tissue ATP levels. Our data show that adjustment of the proton leak in cadmium-exposed oysters may be a compensatory mechanism, which allows them to maintain normal mitochondrial coupling and ATP levels despite the cadmium-induced inhibition of capacity for ATP production.
Heparin and acidic fibroblast growth factor interact to decrease prostacyclin synthesis in human endothelial cells by affecting both prostaglandin H synthase and prostacyclin synthase

Prostaglandin production by cultured human endothelial cells varies with growth conditions. We observed a marked diminution in both spontaneous and inducible production of prostacyclin (PGI2) by human umbilical vein and saphenous vein endothelial cells when they were cultured in the presence of the heparin-binding growth factor, acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) and heparin, compared with PGI2 production during culture in medium lacking these factors. Decreased PGI2 production was related to duration of exposure of the cells to aFGF and heparin and depended on the concentration of both substances. Heparin (1-100 micrograms/ml) strongly potentiated the effects of aFGF but had a limited and variable effect alone. The decrease in PGI2 production correlated with a reduction in the cellular content of immunoreactive prostaglandin H synthase and prostacyclin synthase. Arachidonate deacylation was not decreased. In addition, the eicosanoid profile of endothelial cells was changed by exposure to aFGF and heparin. These studies indicate that heparin acts as a modulator of prostaglandin synthesis in endothelial cells through its interaction with aFGF, mediated by alterations in two key enzymes in the arachidonate metabolic pathway.
On Defining Normative Consistency: The Case of Sex-Stereotyping

Reanalysis of data on norms of role-assignment shows that between 1953 and 1976 mothers increasingly expressed the view that certain, traditionally sex-segregated, household tasks should be done by children of both sexes. Dividing the overall variance into variance due to substantive (attitudinal) effects and variance due to trends in attitude over time, we find that 61% of the trend variance is attributable to simple shift toward desegregation of tasks. The attitudinal variance is dominated by a tendency toward ideological consistency, that is, by a generalized belief either in segregated or in joint assignment of tasks. This accounts for 73% of the substantive variance. These simple conclusions are arrived at by taking a multiway frequency distribution, and instead of fitting the usual row, column and interaction effects, subjecting those effects to orthogonal rotation, thereby arriving at meaningful axes.
Developing a U.S. research strategy for marine polymetallic sulfides

Abstract Marine polymetallic sulfides (MPS) are recently discovered mineral occurrences of hydrothermal origin. Design of an appropriate research strategy to investigate the MPS deposits is a policy issue that the paper seeks to help resolve. The paper describes the relevant nature of MPS, reviews what has happened in the early stages of MPS research, and examines market conditions to help specify a scientifically and economically effective research strategy. This strategy is examined in several key dimensions: science versus research and development (RD role of government and private industry, geographic concentration; focus in time; and the locus of responsibility and scope of participation. Because of the early stage of work on MPS and the scant scientific evidence available, expected results of R&D are extremely uncertain. In this context, a sequential scientific approach is favored for government support. The strategy suggested by the paper's analysis would permit geographically varied work sites ...
Susceptibility of Cyclooxygenase-2-Deficient Mice to Pulmonary Fibrogenesis

The cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 enzyme has been implicated as an important mediator of pulmonary fibrosis. In this study, the lung fibrotic responses were investigated in COX-1 or COX-2-deficient (−/−) mice following vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) exposure. Lung histology was normal in saline-instilled wild-type and COX-deficient mice. COX-2−/−, but not COX-1−/− or wild-type mice, exhibited severe inflammatory responses by 3 days following V2O5 exposure and developed pulmonary fibrosis 2 weeks post-V2O5 exposure. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry showed that COX-1 protein was present in type 2 epithelial cells, bronchial epithelial cells, and airway smooth muscle cells of saline or V2O5-exposed wild-type and COX-2−/− mice. COX-2 protein was present in Clara cells of wild-type and COX-1−/− terminal bronchioles and was strongly induced 24 hours after V2O5 exposure. Prostaglandin (PG) E2 levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from wild-type and COX-1−/− mice were significantly up-regulated by V2O5 exposure within 24 hours, whereas PGE2 was not up-regulated in COX-2−/− BAL fluid. Tumor necrosis factor-α was elevated in the BAL fluid from all genotypes after V2O5 exposure, but was significantly and chronically elevated in the BAL fluid from COX-2−/− mice above wild-type or COX-1−/− mice. These findings indicate that the COX-2 enzyme is protective against pulmonary fibrogenesis, and we suggest that COX-2 generation of PGE2 is an important factor in resolving inflammation.
Organized cerebral heterotopia in the ethmoid sinus. A case report

Abstract A 60-year-old woman afflicted with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea was found to have a heterotopia consisting of well-differentiated neurons organized in layers in the lamina propria of the mucosa of the ethmoid sinus. This heterotopic cerebral anlage is best classified within the spectrum of “nasal gliomas”. The origin of this malformation is a failure of closure of the anterior neuropore which delays the ingrowth of the mesoderm that is destined to form the skull and dura beyond the 10th week of gestation, leaving behind trapped cerebral tissue. The presentation of this congenital malformation late in life is attributed to the development of sinusitis.
Generation of a two-center overlap integral over Slater orbitals of higher principal quantum numbers

The expressions for two-center overlap integrals between angular s, p, and d Slater orbitals of arbitrary, higher principal quantum number are explicitly listed. The expressions obtained are extremely compact and independent of the coordinate system. It is further shown that the numerical values of the integrals obtained in this way are free from any numerical instability.
Maleimide-mediated protein conjugates of a nucleoside triphosphate gamma-S and an internucleotide phosphorothioate diester

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the gamma-S of nucleoside thiotriphosphates and the non-bridging sulfur of internucleotide phosphorothioate diesters possess sufficient thiol character to form adducts with maleimides. Adenosine triphosphate gamma-S (ATPS) and thymidyl-PS-thymidine (TPST) were each reacted with the reporter molecule N-1 pyrene maleimide (PM) and the fluorescence intensity was recorded. The observed reactivity of the phosphorothioate nucleotides towards maleimide was used as a basis for preparing covalent protein-nucleotide conjugates of ATPS and of the internucleotide phosphorothioate diester, deoxyadenylyl-PS-deoxy-adenylyl-PS-deoxyadenosine (dA3(PS)2). The absorbance spectra of bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugates of ATPS and of dA3(PS)2 showed the formation of protein-nucleotide conjugates, with absorbance maxima near 260 nm. The degree of conjugation was 1.69 nucleotides (nt)/BSA molecule for ATPS and 0.44 nt/BSA molecule for dA3(PS)2. The extent of conjugation of the gamma-S of the nucleoside thiotriphosphate and of the non-bridging sulfur of the internucleotide phosphorothioate diester with maleimide-derivatized protein agreed with their relative reactivity towards PM. Both the gamma-S of the nucleoside thiotriphosphate and the internucleotide phosphorothioate diester were found to possess sufficient thiol character to permit formation of maleimide-mediated protein conjugates.
Self-Identity as a Helping Professional: An Exploratory Study

640 respondents to a statewide telephone survey were asked if they consider their jobs or occupations to be one of the helping professions. Two-thirds of the respondents answered affirmatively. The...
Developmental perspectives on reflective practices of elementary science education students

Instructors of elementary science methods classes have long lamented the significant difficulties their students exhibit when trying to understand the many complexities of teaching science. As noted by some researchers and practicing teachers, preservice teachers often fail to developmentally function at desired levels with respect to constructivism and constructivist practices. Many reasons exist for continuing to consider developmental perspectives when trying to understand student learning, or lack thereof. Developmental learning theories have matured substantially from Piaget’s (1969) original four stage model of child development, or the model later proposed by Kohlberg (1984). However, neither is ideal for understanding the development of perspectives in teacher education students. A model proposed by Perry (1970) examined adult development within the context of college students’ thinking and its progression throughout the college experience. In this study, Perry’s scheme has been applied to the development of constructivist perspectives in a group of preservice elementary education majors. Results revealed 28 of the 38 students held perceptions in the lowest level (dualism) of Perry’s scheme. This calls into question the efficacy of science methods instruction premised on the basis of students functioning at stages above that of dualism.
A study of mitochondrial-extramitochondrial interactions in giant tissue culture cells by microfluorimetry-microelectrophoresis

1. The microfluorimetry-microelectrophoresis technique allows the study of pyridine nucleotide fluorescence under the influence of microelectrophoretically introduced metabolites, in various intracellular compartments (mitochondria, nucleus and cytoplasm) of single giant tissue culture ascites cells (EL2 giants). The ultimate goal of such experiments is the study of interactions between compartments. 2. In starved EL2 giants, the mitochondrial and extramitochondrial compartments respond by a fluorescence increase to microelectrophoretic addition of Krebs cycle intermediates and glycolytic intermediates, respectively. 3. Although the mitochondrial and extramitochondrial compartments respond independently to their respective substrates they are also interdependent. a) With various microelectrophoretic mixtures containing a mitochondrial substrate (glutamate) + a glycolytic substrate (G6P), the main fluorescence response is extramitocondrial, the mitochondrial response to glutamate is suppressed or depressed. b) In glucose-fed cells the mitochondrial response to glutamate and isocitrate is suppressed, the main response to glutamate is extramitochondrial (the same for glutamate in Amytal-treated cells). c) After microelectrophoretic addition of TCA cycle intermediates to starved cells, the extramitochondrial fluorescence response to glucose is totally suppressed.
Effects of Castration on Peritoneal Fluid in the Horse

Abstract Twenty-four clinically normal horses were castrated by routine methods. Peritoneal fluid was collected prior to castration and at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days postcastration. Peritoneal fluid was collected on days 9 and 11 if nucleated cell (NC) counts were still markedly elevated on day 7. Peritonitis, defined as NC counts greater than 10,000/microliters, was evident in 15 horses following castration. Mean NC counts peaked on day 5 but were less than 10,000/microliters for 74% of the horses by day 7, and 90% of the horses by day 9. One horse had a NC count greater than 60,000/microliters on day 11 when sampling ended. Postcastration peritoneal fluid was obviously blood-tinged in 21 horses. Peak RBC counts occurred on day 3 but markedly decreased by day 5. Elevated peritoneal RBC counts correlated well with elevated NC counts (P less than 0.001). Horses with peritonitis tended to have fever (P less than 0.05). Other clinical signs of peritonitis were not apparent.
Multi-dimensional liquid chromatography in proteomics—A review

Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteins, particularly their expression, structures and functions. This still-emerging combination of technologies aims to describe and characterize all expressed proteins in a biological system. Because of upper limits on mass detection of mass spectrometers, proteins are usually digested into peptides and the peptides are then separated, identified and quantified from this complex enzymatic digest. The problem in digesting proteins first and then analyzing the peptide cleavage fragments by mass spectrometry is that huge numbers of peptides are generated that overwhelm direct mass spectral analyses. The objective in the liquid chromatography approach to proteomics is to fractionate peptide mixtures to enable and maximize identification and quantification of the component peptides by mass spectrometry. This review will focus on existing multidimensional liquid chromatographic (MDLC) platforms developed for proteomics and their application in combination with other techniques such as stable isotope labeling. We also provide some perspectives on likely future developments.
SMART solutions for composite structures

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) that uses integrated sensor network to provide real-time monitoring of in-service structures can improve the safety and reliability of the structures significantly. Acellent Technologies' SHM systems based on SMART technology consists of the integrated sensor network, diagnosis hardware platform and the diagnosis software. This paper introduces the latest SMART damage detection hardware platform - ScanGenie and the new analysis software for damage detection in composite and metal structures. The ScanGenie is a portable high-performance hardware that provides many features such as through-transmission, pulse-echo, temperature measurement, self-diagnosis, sensor diagnosis, etc. The new analysis software is based on the ScanGenie hardware to provide functions such as temperature compensation, auto-gain adjustment, impedance-based diagnosis and probability of detection. The system can be used for damage detection in most composite and metal structures such as aircraft, spacecraft and civil infrastructures.
Apolipoprotein E and Alzheimer's Disease

: The specific molecular pathway by which apolipoprotein E modifies the expression of Alzheimer's disease remains elusive. Isoform- specific interactions of apolipoprotein E with other molecules determine the outcome from other neurologic disorders and may provide more tractable model systems.
Caspase-3 activation induced by inhibition of mitochondrial complex I is facilitated by glycogen synthase kinase-3β and attenuated by lithium

The compound 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP) is a selective inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I, and is widely used in model systems to elicit neurochemical alterations that may be associated with Parkinson's disease. In the present study treatment of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells with MPP resulted in a time- and concentration-dependent activation of the apoptosis-associated cysteine protease caspase-3, and caused morphological changes characteristic of apoptosis. To test if the activation state of the cell survival-promoting phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway affects MPP-induced caspase-3 activation, PI3K was inhibited with LY294002, or activated with insulin-like growth factor-1. MPP-induced caspase-3 activation was increased by inhibition of PI3K, and decreased by stimulation of PI3K, indicative of anti-apoptotic signaling by the PI3K/Akt pathway. To test if glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK3beta), a pro-apoptotic kinase that is inhibited by Akt, is involved in regulating MPP-induced apoptosis, overexpression of GSK3beta and lithium, a selective inhibitor of GSK3beta, were used to directly alter GSK3beta activity. MPP-induced caspase-3 activity was increased by overexpression of GSK3beta. Conversely, the GSK3beta inhibitor lithium attenuated MPP-induced caspase-3 activation. To test if these regulatory interactions applied to other mitochondrial complex I inhibitors, cells were treated with rotenone. Rotenone-induced activation of caspase-3 was enhanced by inhibition of PI3K or increased GSK3beta activity, and was attenuated by inhibiting GSK3beta with lithium. Overall, these results indicate that inhibition of GSK3beta provides protection against the toxic effects of agents, such as MPP and rotenone, that impair mitochondrial function.
Race/Ethnicity, Gender, Parentification, and Psychological Functioning Comparisons Among a Nationwide University Sample

Childhood parentification has been reported to have enduring effects on psychological, relational, and physical functioning across the life span. Few studies have examined the implications of race/...