cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of "H-2K,D-like structures" on MM2 X mouse L cell hybrids. I. "H-2K,D-like" alloantigen encoded by the D region and/or to the right of the D region of the H-2 gene complex.

It was found that anti-MM2 serum, which had been prepared by immunizing C3H/He mice with syngeneic MM2 mouse mammary ascites tumor, detected molecules of 44–46,000 and 12,000 daltons on EL4 leukemic cells and on C57BL/6 lymph node cells, as well as on somatic cell hybrids between the MM2 and mouse L cells. Experiments with a known rabbit anti-mouse β2-microglobulin serum showed that the two molecules detected by anti-MM2 serum were hydrophobically associated with each other in membrane extracts; thus, the antigen detected by anti-MM2 serum was structurally similar to H-2K and D antigens. Preclearing of lysates from C57BL/6 lymph node cells with a mixture of anti-H-2.2, anti-H-2.33, and anti-H-2.28 sera did not remove the ‘H-2-like’ antigen, indicating that the antigen was distinct from the H-2Kb and Db molecules. Neither C3H/He nor B10. BR lymph node cells expressed the ‘H-2-like’ antigen, but B10. A(4R) and B10. AM lymph node cells did possess the antigen. Absorption of anti-MM2 serum with EL4 cells abolished the capacity of the absorbed serum to precipitate the ‘H-2-like’ antigen activity on C57BL/6 lymph node cell extracts and reduced the ‘H-2-like’ radioactive peaks of the hybrid cells. These results indicate that there are at least two components being recognized by the anti-MM2 serum in hybrid cells between MM2 tumor and mouse L cells, both of which had originated in the C3H/He mouse (H-2k). One is the same as or cross-reactive with an ‘H-2-like’ alloantigen of normal C57BL/6 lymph node cells (H-2d) and the other is another ‘H-2-like’ antigen. Experiments with recombinant mice show that the ‘H-2-like’ alloantigen on lymph node cells is coded for by the D region and/or to the right of the D region of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC).
Strong influence of the littoral zone on sedimentary lipid biomarkers in a meromictic lake

Planktonic sulfur bacteria growing in zones of photic zone euxinia (PZE) are important primary producers in stratified, sulfur-rich environments. The potential for export and burial of microbial biomass from anoxic photic zones remains relatively understudied, despite being of fundamental importance to interpreting the geologic record of bulk total organic carbon (TOC) and individual lipid biomarkers. Here we report the relative concentrations and carbon isotope ratios of lipid biomarkers from the water column and sediments of meromictic Mahoney Lake. The data show that organic matter in the central basin sediments is indistinguishable from material at the lake shoreline in both its lipid and carbon isotopic compositions. However, this material is not consistent with either the lipid profile or carbon isotope composition of biomass obtained directly from the region of PZE. Due to the strong density stratification and the intensive carbon and sulfur recycling pathways in the water column, there appears to be minimal direct export of the sulfur-oxidizing planktonic community to depth. The results instead suggest that basinal sediments are sourced via the littoral environment, a system that integrates an indigenous shoreline microbial community, the degraded remains of laterally rafted biomass from the PZE community, and detrital remains of terrigenous higher plants. Material from the lake margins appears to travel downslope, traverse the strong density gradient, and become deposited in the deep basin; its final composition may be largely heterotrophic in origin. This suggests an important role for clastic and/or authigenic minerals in aiding the burial of terrigenous and mat-derived organic matter in euxinic systems. Downslope or mineral-aided transport of anoxygenic, photoautotrophic microbial mats may have been a significant sedimentation process in early Earth history.
Religiosity, National Identity and Legitimacy: Israel as an Extreme Case

This article investigates the relationship between religiosity and contemporary national identities by using Israel as a case study and comparing it to other countries. Survey data from the ISSP 2003 (ZA 3910) module and the Jewish Religious Behaviour in Israel study (2000)1 are used to evaluate the level of national sentiments among people with different degrees of religiosity. It is found that secular Jewish Israelis are significantly less proud in almost every dimension of national pride than other Jewish Israeli groups. A similar pattern was noticed in other countries, but the gap in national pride between religious and less religious people in Israel is the highest among the 17 majoritarian ethnic groups examined.These findings point to the difficulty of stripping ethnic symbols from their religious origin, as well as to the special quest of Israeli Jews for legitimacy, which can be achieved more easily via religious justifications.
An exploration of the moderating role of buyer corporate culture in industrial buyer-seller relationships

In this study, the authors examine industrial buyer-seller relationships, exploring the influence of buyer perceptions of their relationships on their repurchase intentions. In particular close relationships as opposed to pure transactions, are examined. Using data collected from buyers of industrial goods and services, the authors examine the association between buyers' perceptions of relationship quality and repurchase intentions and the moderating effect of the corporate culture of the buying firms. The results suggest a significant relationship between buyer perceptions of the relationship and their repurchase intentions, as well as a significant moderating effect of buyer firm corporate culture. The implications of these findings for the study of marketing relationships, as well as for marketing practice, are also offered.
Asian Outbound Tourism: Cross Cultural Models

Globalization and the expanding economies of Asian nations are generating a huge potential tourism market for Europe and the United States. The initial projection came from World Tourism Organization in Vision 2020 (1998), and in 2000 WTO sponsored additional research on Japan and South Korea. These manuals quantitatively describe the visitor potential but provide very little qualitative information about visitor preferences in destinations and activities. European and American tour operators have had many years of experience providing hospitality domestically and with each other but not to Asian visitors. Who is coming to our shores and what are the implications?
In situ polymerization of bisphenol-A-carbonate cyclic oligomers in miscible blends with a styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer: phase separation dynamics and the influence of phase dispersion on ductility

Abstract The in situ polymerization of bisphenol-A-carbonate cyclic oligomers (BPACY)/styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer (SAN) blends has been demonstrated to yield PC/SAN blends with morphologies unattainable via conventional melt blending. Extremely fine phase dispersion can be obtained by this method of blend preparation. Domain-coarsening kinetics have been shown to be quite sensitive to the volume fraction of the dispersed phase. The ‘pinning’ of domain coarsening, unique to polymer systems, can be attributed to the extreme barriers to diffusive coarsening mechanisms in these systems. Thus, phase coarsening is arrested when percolation ceases or domains no longer form local clusters. The dispersed phase size has been shown to have a dramatic effect on high-stress deformation in systems where a brittle phase is dispersed in a more compliant ductile matrix. The increased ductility of blends with finer phase dispersions has been rationalized based on a lower tendency for smaller brittle phases to craze and crack in addition to the influence of complex local stress fields in heterogeneous materials.
Organic carbon accumulation and preservation in surface sediments on the Peru margin

Concentrations and characteristics of organic matter in surface sediments deposited under an intense oxygen-minimum zone on the Peru margin were studied in samples from deck-deployed box cores and push cores acquired by submersible on two transects spanning depths of 75 to 1000 m at 12° and 13.5°S. The source of organic matter to the seafloor in these areas is almost entirely marine material as confirmed by the narrow range of of organic carbon obtained in the present study (−20.3 to −21.6‰; PDB) and the lack of any relationship between pyrolysis hydrogen index and carbon isotope composition. Organic carbon contents are highest (up to 16%) on the slope at depths between 75 and 350 m in sediments deposited under intermediate water masses with low dissolved oxygen concentrations (<5 μmol/kg). Even at these low concentrations of dissolved oxygen, however, the surface sediments that were recovered from these depths are dominantly unlaminated. Strong currents (up to 30 cm/s) associated with the poleward-flowing Peru Undercurrent were measured at depths between 160 and 300 m on both transects. The seafloor in this range of water depths is characterized by bedforms stabilized by bacterial mats, extensive authigenic mineral crusts, and (or) thick organic flocs. Constant advection of dissolved oxygen, although in low concentrations, active resuspension of surficial organic matter, activity of organisms, and transport of fine-grained sediment to and from more oxygenated zones all contribute to greater degradation and poorer initial preservation of organic matter than might be expected under oxygen-deficient conditions. Dissolved-oxygen concentrations ultimately may be the dominant affect on organic matter characteristics, but reworking of fine-grained sediment and organic matter by strong bottom currents and redeposition on the seafloor in areas of lower energy also exert important controls on organic carbon concentration and degree of oxidation in this region.
An Ecologically Based Model of Alcohol-Consumption Decision Making: Evidence for the Discriminative and Predictive Role of Contextual Reward and Punishment Information

OBJECTIVE: Using insights from Ecological Systems Theory and Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory, the current study assessed the utility of a series of hypothetical role-based alcohol-consumption scenarios that varied in their presentation of rewarding and punishing information. METHOD: The scenarios, along with measures of impulsive sensation seeking and a self-report of weekly alcohol consumption, were administered to a sample of alcohol-dependent and non-alcohol-dependent college-age individuals (N = 170). RESULTS: The results showed scenario attendance decisions were largely unaffected by alcohol-dependence status and variations in contextual reward and punishment information. In contrast to the attendance findings, the results for the alcohol-consumption decisions showed alcohol-dependent individuals reported a greater frequency of deciding to drink, as well as indicating greater alcohol consumption in the contexts of complementary rewarding or nonpunishing information. Regression results provided evidence for the criterion-related validity of scenario outcomes in an account of diagnostic alcohol problems. CONCLUSIONS: The results are discussed in terms of the conceptual and predictive gains associated with an assessment approach to alcohol-consumption decision making that combines situational information organized and balanced through the frameworks of Ecological Systems Theory and Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory. Language: en
Observations of Lyα absorption in a triple quasar system

We have obtained follow-up observations of the quasar pair LBQS 0107-025A and B and new observations of the nearby quasar LBQS 0107-0232 with the Hubble Space Telescope Faint Object Spectrograph. Extended wavelength coverage of LBQS 0107-025A and B using the G270H grating was also obtained. This triple system is unique in providing sensitivity to coherent Lyα absorption on transverse scales of approximately 1 Mpc at z < 1. Monte Carlo simulations were used to establish the confidence level for matches between absorption features in different lines of sight as a function of velocity separation. Pairwise, there are 8, 9, and 12 lines that match between spectra. Three instances of matches between all three lines of sight were found with velocity separations of less than 550 km s -1. Two of the pairings have coincident lines within |Δv| < 200 km s-1 that would occur with less than 10% probability by chance. Taking into account the equivalent widths of the lines, one of these triple coincidences is significant at the 99.99% confidence level based on Monte Carlo simulations with random line placements. Matches with strong lines preferentially have small velocity separations. These same simulations are used to demonstrate that the distribution of matches for a population of absorbers randomly distributed in velocity space is peaked toward |Δv| = 0, which has implications for the statistical significance of matches. One of the triple coincidences appears to be a strong absorber with a sheetlike, but inhomogeneous, geometry and a coherence length approaching or exceeding 1 Mpc.
Comparison of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene metabolism and DNA binding in mammary epithelial cells from three rat strains with differing susceptibilities to mammary carcinogenesis

The capacity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) to induce mammary carcinomas has been studied in three rat strains. Wistar/Furth (WF) rats are highly susceptible to DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis, Copenhagen (Cop) rats are completely resistant, and Fischer 344 (F344) rats have an intermediate susceptibility. We have previously shown that WF rats possess 'enhancer genes', which enhance susceptibility to induced mammary cancer. Cop rats, however, possess a single 'suppressor' gene which confers complete resistance to mammary cancer. Both gene types are apparently absent in F344 rats. In order to determine possible mechanisms of action of these enhancer and suppressor genes, we have examined DMBA metabolism and DNA binding in mammary epithelial cells isolated from each rat strain. Quantitative analyses of both metabolism and DNA binding indicate no significant differences among the strains. In addition, HPLC analyses of DMBA metabolites and DMBA-DNA adducts were essentially identical. These data suggest that the genes controlling susceptibility and resistance to mammary carcinogenesis in these rat strains are likely to be active at later stages of the carcinogenic process.
Integrated Geothermal-CO2 Reservoir Systems: Reducing Carbon Intensity through Sustainable Energy Production and Secure CO2 Storage☆

Large-scale geologic CO2 storage (GCS) can be limited by overpressure, while geothermal energy production is often limited by pressure depletion. We investigate how synergistic integration of these complementary systems may enhance the viability of GCS by relieving overpressure, which reduces pore-space competition, the Area of Review, and the risks of CO2 leakage and induced seismicity, and by producing geothermal energy and water, which can defray parasitic energy and water costs of CO2 capture.
SPLINE FUNCTIONS AND THE PROBLEM OF GRADUATION.

The aim of this note is to extend some of the recent work on spline interpolation so as to include also a solution of the problem of graduation of data. The well-known method of graduation due to E. T. Whittaker suggests how this should be done. Here we merely describe the idea and the qualitative aspects of the new method, while proofs and the computational side will be discussed elsewhere.
Complex permittivity and permeability measurements of ferrite powders at millimeter waves

We present the complex dielectric permittivity and magnetic permeability characteristics of barium and strontium ferrite powders of different specific gravity in the Q-, V- and W-band frequency ranges. The measurements have been done using free-space quasi-optical millimeter wave spectrometer with a backward-wave oscillator as a tunable source of coherent radiation. Dielectric and magnetic parameters of the ferrite powders have been calculated by matching the theoretical curves to the experimental transmittance spectra using a best-fit method. The magnetic properties of the ferrite powders as a function of frequency have been analyzed.
Pregnancy associated pancreatitis revisited

Summary Objectives To evaluate the demographics, risk factors and outcomes of pregnancy associated pancreatitis (PAP). Study design A retrospective chart review was done using ICD-9 Code 577.0 (acute pancreatitis) from January 2005 through December 2009. Women aged 18 to 45 years, who were pregnant and 6 months after delivery were considered for the study. For each case, two women of the same age (± 4 years) with no history of pancreatitis were matched as control. Demographics, etiology, diagnostic modality and intervention were obtained. Results During the 5 years of study, 29 cases of PAP occurred among 25,600 total hospital deliveries, yielding prevalence of 0.001%: Hispanics 48%, Caucasians 24%, African Americans 17.2%, and Asian/Pacific Islanders 13% ( P 2 had PAP, versus 24% with BMI between 25 and 30 kg/m 2 and 10% with BMI less than 25 kg/m 2 ( P Conclusion Gallstone disease is the most frequent etiology for PAP and tends to occur more often in Hispanics in New Jersey.
Methods to reduce the variability of EMG power spectrum estimates

Three methods that can significantly reduce the variability of the EMG power density spectrum (PDS) variable by eliminating artifactual components are described. Two methods, one that allows the subtraction of power line noise in the time domain and one which allows the subtraction of system noise in the frequency domain from the EMG, were shown to be effective in helping to accurately estimate the median frequency (MF) of the PDS, and especially during low level contractions (0-25% maximal voluntary contraction, MVC) when the signal-to-noise ratio is unfavorable. The techniques eliminate the artifactual effects of system and power line noises from the EMG recordings throughout the force range (0-100% MVC) while preserving the native EMG power at all frequencies. It was also shown that if a technique to train subjects to produce their true MVC is employed, the absolute force/torque produced could be as much as 30% higher than in untrained MVC. The effect of true MVC production was also shown to be significant when interpretation of PDS variables are correlated to the processes which produce contraction.
Charting the Research on the Policies and Politics of Coaching.

Facing relentless pressure to improve student achievement, many states and districts are using coaching as a policy lever to promote changes in practice. This special issue centers on the policies and politics of coaching, and this editorial commentary highlights what we know about the role of coaches and coaching in the field of education. Then I introduce and synthesize the special issue’s seven empirical contributions. Taken together, these papers, using qualitative and quantitative methods, attend to the implementation of diverse coaching models. These papers surface novel findings on the coaching of both teachers and principals and have implications for scholars, reformers, and practitioners. Finally, I make recommendations for future research on coaching that is grounded in theory and which would advance our understanding of both educational policy and change.
The Sex Offender Next Door: An Analysis of Recidivism, Risk Factors, and Deterrence of Sex Offenders on Probation:

Nearly 60% of convicted sex offenders serve a term of felony probation or parole. Using data for 917 convicted male sex offenders on probation in 17 states, this study examines the efficacy of community supervision for this population. Offenders’ social demographics and baseline criminality were studied in conjunction with formal and informal social controls to determine their collective deterrent impact. The overall recidivism rate was 16%. However, only 4.5% of offenders committed a new sex crime during probation. Regression analyses indicate that factors readily available to court personnel can accurately predict non-sexual recidivism among sex offenders on probation. However, accurately predicting additional sexual violence proved a more dubious task. The only significant predictor of chronic sex offending was the imposition of a jail term as a condition of probation. Results indicate that under the right set of conditions, probation is the most appropriate criminal sanction for some types of sex offe...
NF-κB in Cancer: A Matter of Life and Death

Activation of NF-κB has been linked to various cellular processes in cancer, including inflammation, transformation, proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, chemoresistance, and radioresistance. Although acute inflammation mediates innate and humoral immunity, chronic inflammation has been linked to tumorigenesis. Thus, inhibition of NF-κB has therapeutic potential in sensitization of tumors to chemotherapeutic agents; however, generalized suppression of NF-κB can result in serious host toxicity with minimum effect on the tumor.
Architectural techniques for eliminating critical feedback paths

The authors demonstrate architectural techniques, for small-state feedback circuits that significantly improve the throughput without requiring circuit design efforts or advanced technologies. The method is flexible in terms of achievable implementations and speedups. The authors discuss a new high-throughput solution for systems with finite-level feedback values. As an example, the authors consider coding and signal processing systems for optical communications, which usually have very simple feedback. The authors demonstrate the method by realizing a 2 micron CMOS layout of a bimode 3B4B line coder. Simulation results show that, using standard cell design, the chip achieves a coding rate of 1.4 Gb/s. Other design options are discussed. >
Chronic Critical Illness: The Growing Challenge to Health Care

The chronically critically ill (CCI) comprise a rapidly growing population of patients who have survived acute critical illness, only to be left with ongoing organ dysfunctions requiring high levels of specialized care for months or years. In many ways, CCI is an “iatrogenic” process, reflecting the ability of modern life support technologies to keep patients alive for prolonged periods of time despite ongoing life threatening illness. Venues of care for the CCI patient include acute care hospitals (both ICU and step-down facilities), specialized long term acute care hospitals, and, less commonly, skilled nursing facilities, or even the home. Importantly, CCI patients transition among these venues frequently, reflecting the nature of CCI to be punctuated with episodes of acute critical illness. Management of the CCI population requires a special combination of intensive care and rehabilitative skills.
Calmodulin mediates norepinephrine-induced receptor-operated calcium entry in preglomerular resistance arteries.

Although L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels play a major role in mediating vascular smooth muscle cell contraction in the renal vasculature, non-L-type calcium entry mechanisms represent a s...
Constitutive neutrophil apoptosis: Mechanisms and regulation

Neutrophil constitutive death is a critical cellular process for modulating neutrophil number and function, and it plays an essential role in neutrophil homeostasis and the resolution of inflammation. Neutrophils die due to programmed cell death or apoptosis. In this article, we review recent studies on the mechanism of neutrophil apoptosis. The involvement of caspase, calpain, reactive oxygen species, cellular survival/death signaling pathways, mitochondria, and BCL-2 family member proteins are discussed. The fate of neutrophils can be influenced within the inflammatory microenvironment. We summarize the current understanding regarding the modulation of neutrophil apoptotic death by various extracellular stimuli such as proinflammatory cytokines, cell adhesion, phagocytosis, red blood cells, and platelets. The involvement of neutrophil apoptosis in infectious and inflammatory diseases is also addressed.
Up-regulation of O-GlcNAc transferase with glucose deprivation in HepG2 cells is mediated by decreased hexosamine pathway flux

O-Linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is a post-translational modification of proteins that functions as a nutrient sensing mechanism. We have previously shown a significant induction of O-GlcNAc modification under conditions of glucose deprivation. Increased O-GlcNAc modification was mediated by increased mRNA for nucleocytoplasmic O-linked N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (ncOGT). We have investigated the mechanism mediating ncOGT induction with glucose deprivation. The signal does not appear to be general energy depletion because no differences in AMP-dependent kinase protein levels or phosphorylation were observed between glucose-deprived and normal glucose-treated cells. However, treatment of glucose-deprived cells with a small dose (1 mm) of glucosamine blocked the induction of ncOGT mRNA and subsequent increase in O-GlcNAc protein modification, suggesting that decreased hexosamine flux is the signal for ncOGT up-regulation. Consistent with this, treatment of glucose-deprived cells with an inhibitor of O-GlcNAcase (O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-d-glucopyranosylidene) amino N-phenyl carbamat) completely prevented the subsequent up-regulation of ncOGT. Glucosamine treatment also resulted in a 40% rescue of the down-regulation of glycogen synthase activity normally seen after glucose deprivation. We conclude that deglycosylation of proteins within the first few hours of glucose deprivation promotes ncOGT induction. These findings suggest a novel negative feedback regulatory loop for OGT and O-GlcNAc regulation.
Analysis of Genotype-by-Environment Interaction in Wheat Using a Structural Equation Model and Chromosome Substitution Lines

The presence of genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) complicates selection of superior geno types and an understanding of environmental and genotypic causes of signifi cant GEI is important in all stages of plant breeding. We present a systematic approach for understanding GEI of complex interrelated traits by combining chromosome substitution lines that allowed us to study the effects of genes on a single chromosome with a structural equation model that approximated the complex processes involving genes, environmental conditions, and traits. We applied the approach to recombinant inbred chromosome wheat lines grown in multiple environments. The fi nal model explained 74% of the yield GEI variation and we found that spikes per square meter (SPSM) GEI had the highest direct effect on yield GEI and that the genetic markers were mostly sensitive to temperature and precipitation during the vegetative and reproductive periods. In addition, we identifi ed a number of direct and indirect causal relationships that described how genes interacted with environmental factors to affect GEI of several important agronomic traits which would not have been possible with previously used methods.
The malignancy of metastatic ovarian cancer cells is increased on soft matrices through a mechanosensitive Rho–ROCK pathway

Although current treatments for localized ovarian cancer are highly effective, this cancer still remains the most lethal gynecological malignancy, largely owing to the fact that it is often detected only after tumor cells leave the primary tumor. Clinicians have long noted a clear predilection for ovarian cancer to metastasize to the soft omentum. Here, we show that this tropism is due not only to chemical signals but also mechanical cues. Metastatic ovarian cancer cells (OCCs) preferentially adhere to soft microenvironments and display an enhanced malignant phenotype, including increased migration, proliferation and chemoresistance. To understand the cell–matrix interactions that are used to sense the substrate rigidity, we utilized traction force microscopy (TFM) and found that, on soft substrates, human OCCs increased both the magnitude of traction forces as well as their degree of polarization. After culture on soft substrates, cells underwent morphological elongation characteristic of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which was confirmed by molecular analysis. Consistent with the idea that mechanical cues are a key determinant in the spread of ovarian cancer, the observed mechanosensitivity was greatly decreased in less-metastatic OCCs. Finally, we demonstrate that this mechanical tropism is governed through a Rho–ROCK signaling pathway.
Demonstration of injection locking a diode laser using a filtered electro-optic modulator sideband

Many experiments in atomic physics require two laser beams with a controllable difference in frequencies. In this paper, we report on realizing this goal using a technique where an electro-optic modulator sideband is filtered through a cavity and injected into a diode laser, in a novel configuration yielding very high feedback isolation without sacrificing access to the output power of the diode laser. The advantages of this approach over alternative techniques for injection locking are discussed.
Comparative advantages of mechanical biosensors

Mechanical interactions are fundamental to biology. Mechanical forces of chemical origin determine motility and adhesion on the cellular scale, and govern transport and affinity on the molecular scale. Biological sensing in the mechanical domain provides unique opportunities to measure forces, displacements and mass changes from cellular and subcellular processes. Nanomechanical systems are particularly well matched in size with molecular interactions, and provide a basis for biological probes with single-molecule sensitivity. Here we review micro- and nanoscale biosensors, with a particular focus on fast mechanical biosensing in fluid by mass- and force-based methods, and the challenges presented by non-specific interactions. We explain the general issues that will be critical to the success of any type of next-generation mechanical biosensor, such as the need to improve intrinsic device performance, fabrication reproducibility and system integration. We also discuss the need for a greater understanding of analyte–sensor interactions on the nanoscale and of stochastic processes in the sensing environment.
The effects of repeated cycles of weight loss and regain in rats

Abstract This study examined the metabolic effects of weight cycling, i.e., repeated periods of weight loss followed by regain. There were three groups of adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats: (1) Chow Controls (a normal weight control group fed chow throughout); (2) Obese Controls (animals fed a high-fat diet throughout); and (3) Obese Cycling (obese animals cycled through two bouts of caloric restriction and refeeding). The cycled animals showed significant increases in food efficiency (weight gain/kcal food intake) in the second restriction and refeeding periods compared to the first, i.e., weight loss occurred at half the rate and regain at three times the rate in the second cycle. Several physiological changes were associated with this cycling effect. At the end of the experiment, cycled animals had a four-fold increase in food efficiency compared to obese animals of the same weight who had not cycled. These data suggest that frequent dieting may make subsequent weight loss more difficult. The possible metabolic and health consequences of “yo-yo” dieting are discussed.
Restorative justice as reflective practice and applied pedagogy on college campuses

Restorative justice (RJ) is both a methodology for dealing with conflict and a process for modeling more positive human relations after social harm. As both method and process, the benefits of developing restorative practices on college campuses go well beyond just the many positive community-oriented outcomes of facilitated conflict resolution processes. We argue that the opportunities for reflective pedagogy and learning for student facilitators outpace the pragmatic benefits to the parties in conflict. By explaining the reflective learning and theoretical interaction that has blossomed between and among students and teachers during the implementation of a RJ initiative in DePauw University’s Conflict Studies Program (CSP), this paper problematizes the role of student engagement and practice in analytical learning about conflict and conflict resolution. The CSP/RJ project, a liberal arts practice initiative, provides a space and structure for undergraduate students to apply conflict theory and learn thr...
Complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy

The emergence of laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a viable alternative to traditional cholecystectomy has been greeted with enthusiasm by the surgical community. This new technique is not without complications, both potential and real. The complications associated with diagnostic laparoscopy are well documented, as are those associated with traditional cholecystectomy. All of these may also be seen with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The incidence of their occurrence, however, may vary. It remains too early to evaluate the complication rates from this new procedure, as reports of large series are just beginning to emerge. Early reports are encouraging but caution that bile duct injury, hemorrhage, and even death may occur. Early enthusiasm for this new method must be tempered with care in its practice if complication rates are to be maintained at an acceptable level and the procedure is to earn a permanent place in the armamentarium of the surgeon.
Effective nearly lossless compression of digital video sequences via motion-compensated filtering

We present a non-linear filtering technique for digital video to enable improved nearly lossless compression. In contrast to preprocessing techniques, our technique uses the compression algorithm for both filtering and compression in one step, by exploiting the property that random noise is hard to compress. >
Parvalbumin‐, calbindin‐, and calretinin‐immunoreactive hippocampal interneuron density in autism

Lawrence YA, Kemper TL, Bauman ML, Blatt GJ. Parvalbumin-, calbindin-, and calretinin-immunoreactive hippocampal interneuron density in autism. Acta Neurol Scand: 2010: 121: 99–108. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard. Background – There has been a long-standing interest in the possible role of the hippocampus in autism and both postmortem brain and neuroimaging studies have documented varying abnormalities in this limbic system structure. Aims – This study investigates the density of subsets of hippocampal interneurons, immunostained with the calcium binding proteins, calbindin (CB), calretinin (CR) and parvalbumin (PV) to determine whether specific subpopulations of interneurons are impacted in autism. Materials and methods – Unbiased stereological techniques were used to quantify the neuronal density of these immunoreactive subpopulations of gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic (GABAergic) interneurons analyzed in the CA and subicular fields in postmortem brain material obtained from five autistic and five age-, gender- and postmortem interval-matched control cases. Results – Results indicate a selective increase in the density of CB-immunoreactive interneurons in the dentate gyrus, an increase in CR-immunoreactive interneurons in area CA1, and an increase in PV-immunoreactive interneurons in areas CA1 and CA3 in the hippocampus of individuals with autism when compared with controls. Discussion/conclusions – Although our sample size is small, these findings suggest that GABAergic interneurons may represent a vulnerable target in the brains of individuals with autism, potentially impacting upon their key role in learning and information processing. These preliminary findings further suggest the need for future more expanded studies in a larger number of postmortem brain samples from cases of autism and controls.
MUTAGENESIS OF CULTURED PLANT CELLS

Experiments were designed to study the effectiveness of the chemical mutagens ethylmethane sulfonate and nitrosoguanidine on plant cells growing in liquid suspensions. Mutation frequency was defined as the number of colonies appearing on selective plates divided by the number of colonies growing on non-selective plates. The compounds tested usually increased mutation frequency by one order of magnitude over the spontaneously occurring rate, although the increase ranged from one to 140-fold. Cell killing was found to be directly correlated with mutation frequency.
CDPKs are dual‐specificity protein kinases and tyrosine autophosphorylation attenuates kinase activity

Abstract Although calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs or CPKs) are classified as serine/threonine protein kinases, autophosphorylation on tyrosine residues was observed for soybean CDPKβ and several Arabidopsis isoforms (AtCPK4 and AtCPK34). We identified Ser-8, Thr-17, Tyr-24 (in the kinase domain), Ser-304, and Ser-358 as autophosphorylation sites of His6-GmCDPKβ. Overall autophosphorylation increased kinase activity with synthetic peptides, but autophosphorylation of Tyr-24 appears to attenuate kinase activity based on studies with the Y24F directed mutant. While much remains to be done, it is clear that several CDPKs are dual-specificity kinases, which raises the possibility that phosphotyrosine signaling may play a role in Ca2+/CDPK-mediated processes. Structured summary of protein interactions GmCDPKβ phosphorylates GmCDPKβ by protein kinase assay ( View interaction )
Lack of Improvement in Renal Allograft Survival Despite a Marked Decrease in Acute Rejection Rates Over the Most Recent Era

Acute rejection is known to have a strong impact on graft survival. Many studies suggest that very low acute rejection rates can be achieved with current immunosuppressive protocols. We wanted to investigate how acute rejection rates have evolved on a national level in the U.S. and how this has impacted graft survival in the most recent era of kidney transplantation. For this purpose, we analyzed data provided by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients regarding all adult first renal transplants between 1995 and 2000. We noted a significant decrease in overall acute rejection rates during the first 6 months, during the first year, and also in late rejections during the second year after transplantation. Despite this decrease in the rate of acute rejection, there was no significant improvement in overall graft survival; furthermore, we noted a statistically significant trend towards worse deathcensored graft survival. There was also a trend for a greater proportion of rejection episodes to fail to recover to previous baseline function after treatment. Our data suggest that decreasing acute rejection rates between 1995 and 2000 have not led to an increase in long-term graft survival. Part of this discordance might be related to a higher proportion of acute rejections which have not resolved with full functional recovery in more recent years. However, the etiology of this concerning trend for worse death censored graft survival in recent years will warrant further investigation.
Insulin-Induced Protein Tyrosine Phosphorylation Cascade and Signalling Molecules Are Localized in a Caveolin-Enriched Cell Membrane Domain

The cellular localisation of time- and temperature-dependent 125 I-insulin binding, insulin-sensi- tive signalling proteins and the insulin-induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation cascade were assessed in subcel- lular fractions isolated on Iodixanol gradients from control and insulin-treated H35 hepatoma cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the concentrations of IRS-1, Shc, GRB-2, SOS, Syp, PI 3-kinase, MAP kinase and Gia were at least 10-fold higher in cell surface-derived, caveolin-enriched fraction than in a cell surface-derived, caveolin-poor fraction (i.e., the plasma membranes). Insulin treatment caused a 15-fold increase in tyrosine phos- phorylation of IRS-1 in the caveolin-enriched fraction in 5 min at 378C compared with a 3-fold increase in plasma membranes and a 6-fold increases in the cytosol and endosomes. Insulin also increased tyrosine phosphor- ylation of both a 72-kDa protein and the 46-kDa Shc isoform only in the caveolin-enriched fraction. Insulin treatment did not change the concentrations of insulin receptors or Shc but increased IRS-1 in the caveolin- enriched fraction, possibly recruited from the cytosolic pool. Insulin also increased the concentrations of insulin receptors, IRS-1 and Shc in endosomes, suggesting insulin-induced internalization of the insulin receptors and proteins activated with them. Electron microscopic analysis, with the use of a combination of colloidal gold- labelled insulin to label the insulin receptor and immunolabelling to detect caveolin or IRS-1, demonstrated the co-localisation of insulin receptors in caveolin- and IRS-1-containing vesicular structures. Differences in the in- sulin-induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation and concentrations of these proximal signalling proteins in the caveolin-enriched fraction, plasma membranes, and cytosol suggest that insulin receptors in the caveolae play a major role in initiating insulin's signal transduction processes. cell signal 10;5:355-362, 1998. © 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.
Epithelial injury induces Egr-1 and Fos expression by a pathway involving protein kinase C and ERK

The signaling pathways activated in response to gastrointestinal injury remain poorly understood. Previous work has implicated the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein kinase as a mediator of wound-signal transduction and a possible regulator of epithelial restitution. Monolayer injury resulted in rapid activation of p42 and p44 ERK. Injury-induced ERK activation was blocked by protein kinase C inhibition or by disruption of the cell cytoskeleton. Significant increases in Fos and early growth response (Egr)-1 mRNA levels were stimulated by injury, peaking by 20 min. ERK activation and the induction of Egr-1 mRNA were inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion with PD-98059. Fos mRNA expression was partially blocked by PD-98059. Western blot analysis demonstrated strong expression and nuclear localization of Fos and Egr after wounding. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated that nuclear extracts contained a protein that specifically bound double-stranded oligonucleotides containing the Egr consensus binding element. Gel supershift assays demonstrated that the protein-DNA complexes were recognized by anti-Egr antibody. Inhibition of injury-induced ERK activation by PD-98059 or direct interference with Egr by expression of a dominant negative mutant led to significantly reduced in vitro monolayer restitution.
Salt Accumulation and Potato Tuber Yield Response to Historical Dairy Manure Applications in South-Central Idaho

Dairy manure applications are common practice in southern Idaho. Questions have arisen regarding the salt accumulations commonly associated with dairy manure applications on salt-sensitive crops like potatoes. The objective of this 2-year study was to evaluate the impact of dairy manure, dairy compost, dairy lagoon water and fertilizer application on salt accumulation and tuber yields in south-central Idaho based on grower-reported nutrient applications and yields. Soil samples and grower-reported tuber yield information were collected midseason (during time period of July 1st-July 30th) from 84 cooperator potato fields in south-central Idaho in both 2009 and 2010. Soil samples were collected to a 30 cm depth and analyzed for soil electrical conductivity (EC), soluble K, Na, Ca, Mg, and pH. Information on manure application, cultural management practices, and total tuber yield was collected for each field. Average reported application rates (wet basis) of these amendments were: 128 Mg ha−1 dairy manure (28 fields), 29 Mg ha−1 dairy compost (11 fields), 415,000 l ha−1 dairy lagoon water (9 fields), or no manure applied (33 fields) over the 4 year period prior to the study. Mean soil soluble K for dairy manure (1.6 mmolc L−1) and dairy lagoon water fields (1.4 mmolc L−1) were significantly greater than dairy compost (0.6 mmolc L−1) or fertilizer fields (0.4 mmolc L−1). Manure application history had no significant treatment effect on soil electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soluble Na, Ca, or K, soil pH, or grower-reported total tuber yield. These overall findings suggest that current dairy manure, compost, and lagoon water application practices to potato production systems in south-central Idaho are not significantly influencing tuber yield or soil salt accumulations. However, significant soluble K accumulations in the soil suggest that dairy manure and dairy lagoon water applications should still be monitored to avoid potential salt accumulations and yield losses.
Biology and Immature Stages of Parydra quadrituberculata (Diptera: Ephydridae)

Adults of Paryda quadrituberculata , distributed in North America east of the Rocky Mountains, occur most abundantly in mud- and sand-shore habitats where they feed upon stranded motile, benthic diatoms. Adults use the labellar canalicular processes for scooping and fanning diatoms into the mouth, or prestomum, whereas larvae use their rapidly protracting and retracting mouthhooks to dislodge and move diatoms close to the mouth into which they are sucked by cibarial action. Adults exhibit a definite activity rhythm consisting of searching/feeding, cleaning, and resting with intervening periods of copulation and oviposition during the daylight period followed by “roosting,” or sheltering upon vegetation or prominent objects at twilight. Heavy rain during daylight elicits “roosting” activity. Eggs are laid on emergent objects in conterminal masses of 2–16 and covered by a thin, uniform, green or yellow-green fecal layer, which turns white in old egg masses. Sparsity of emergent objects on mud flats frequently leads to extensive, multiparental encrustations of egg masses. The incubation period lasts 2–5 days. Serial longitudinal sections of 24 second- and 3rd-instar larvae revealed guts packed with diatoms. The larval stadia total 10–23 days and the puparial phase lasts 5–9 days (or much longer in overwintering forms). Pupation occurs in mud with the postanal elongation bent upward and the bifurcated posterior tracheospiracular siphons projecting slightly above the mud surface. At moderate latitudes, both puparia and adults overwinter, but winter collecting indicates that the adult is the main overwintering stage. The adults typically shelter deep in shoreline grass and sedge hummocks. Some gravid females overwinter and adults in general feed and fly during still, sunlit winter days when the air temperature is above 3.3°C. The primary mortality agents are believed to be parasitic Hymenoptera, weather, and shore birds. Urolepis rufipes (Pteromalidae), Hexacola spp. (Cynipidae), Asobara sp. (Braconidae) were reared from puparia. Aggregation of larvae in isolated, drying mud pools was frequently observed, and it is surmised that this aggregation facilitates parasitization. The egg, 3 larval instars, and puparium are described and illustrated.
Absorption of Carbon Dioxide in Aqueous Morpholine Solutions

Mass transfer coefficients for CO2 absorption by aqueous 4 M, 5 M, and 6 M morpholine (MOR) solution at 30 °C under carbon loaded conditions are presented. Measurements were performed using a wetted wall column under simulated flue gas conditions for postcoal combustion CO2 capture. Similar to other major amines, it was found that the amine concentration has a positive impact on the overall mass transfer coefficient at lean loading while at rich loading the difference between each concentration is within experimental uncertainty. It was also observed that the viscosity increases more dramatically with amine concentration in MOR than monoethanolamine (MEA) within the studied carbon loading range due to different hydrogen-bond structures. The calculation of physical mass transfer resistance in the liquid film revealed that the reaction resistance dominates at lean loadings while the physical mass transfer takes a large portion at the rich loadings. The rate constant of the pseudo-first-order reaction of MOR...