cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibin Is an Antagonist of Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling

Inhibins are endogenous antagonists of activin signaling, long recognized as important regulators of gonadal function and pituitary FSH release. Inhibin, in concert with its co-receptor, betaglycan, can compete with activin for binding to type II activin receptors and, thus, prevent activin signaling. Because bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) also utilize type II activin receptors, we hypothesized that BMP signaling might also be sensitive to inhibin blockade. Here we show that inhibin blocks cellular responses to diverse BMP family members in a variety of BMP-responsive cell types. Inhibin abrogates BMP-induced Smad signaling and transcription responses. Inhibin competes with BMPs for type II activin receptors, and this competition is facilitated by betaglycan. Betaglycan also enables inhibin to bind to and compete with BMPs for binding to the BMP-specific type II receptor BMPRII, which does not bind inhibin in the absence of betaglycan. Betaglycan can confer inhibin responsiveness on cells that are otherwise insensitive to inhibin. These findings demonstrate that inhibin, acting through betaglycan, can function as an antagonist of BMP responses, suggesting a broader role for inhibin and betaglycan in restricting and refining a wide spectrum of transforming growth factor β superfamily signals.
Growth Of 23-24 Week Gestation Babies Successfully Extubated Very Early To Nasal CPAP. 857

Placing tiny babies on nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) at about one week of age may decrease BPD by minimizing barotrauma, but there is concern that this will require too many calories for breathing and cause poor growth. We have seen good weight gain in such babies.
Structural Dynamics of F-Actin: II. Cooperativity in Structural Transitions

Abstract A large body of biochemical evidence suggests that the F-actin filament can have internal cooperativity. We have observed large cooperative effects on the low-resolution structure of actin filaments under three very different conditions. First, when G-Ca2+-actin is polymerized by both Mg2+and KCl, filaments may be found in two different populations, with two discrete positions seen for subdomain 2. When G- Ca2+actin is polymerized by only Mg2+, a single F-Mg2+-actin population is seen. The structural data suggest that an entire filament exists with subdomain 2 in one state or the other when there is a heterogenous mixture of Mg2+and Ca2+-actin. Second, when actin filaments are nucleated from gelsolin there is a conformational change that can be observed throughout the filament that is consistent with a large shift in the actin C terminus. There must be a large cooperative propagation of this effect throughout the filament from the nucleation piont. Third, we have used phalloidin to stabilize F-actin in which two C-terminal residues have been proteolytically removed by trypsin. It has been shown biochemically that this stabilization occurs at substoichometric amounts of phalloidin. Phalloidin, at either a 1:1 or a 1:20 molar ratio with actin, restores the connectivity between the long-pitch helical strands. F-actin's internal cooperativity will have large implicationsin vivo, particularly in muscle.
The hydrolysis of 1,5-gluconolactone: semi-empirical methods and 13C NMR confirmation

Abstract The hydrolysis of 1,5-gluconolactone is investigated by semi-empirical (MNDO-PM3) methods and 13 C NMR spectroscopy. The theoretical methods predict acyl-oxygen scission at C1 as the preferred point of hydrolytic attack. This result is confirmed by a 13 C NMR study using H 2 18 O.
Unstable growth of thermally induced interacting cracks in brittle solids

Abstract The growth and stability of thermally induced equally spaced parallel cracks in a half-plane consisting of a homogeneous isotropic linearly elastic brittle material are studied. At the initial time, the uniform temperature of the half-plane is reduced at its surface by a large increment, T 0 , and then kept constant (at the surface). Because of heat conduction and possible heat convection due to fluid flow, a temperature gradient forms close to the surface and penetrates into the half-plane. Thermal contraction results in the formation of cracks perpendicular to the free surface. It is shown that if the cracks are initially parallel and equally spaced, and if the possibility of branching is excluded, then they grow in time until a critical state is reached. At this state alternate cracks stop growing, while the others begin to grow at a much faster rate. This process continues until another critical state is attained, where the cracks which had stopped growing (together with some other cracks, depending on the temperature profile), suddenly close, while the cracks which have continued growing, suddenly “snap” into a finitely longer length. At this state the crack spacing is doubled (or quadrupled, depending on the temperature profile). The whole process then repeats itself. Applications to geothermal energy extraction from hot dry rock masses is mentioned.
Foam separation of active carbon

An experimental investigation is presented of the foam separation of powdered active carbon, equilibriated with an aqueous, synthetic waste water containing phenol and a cationic (ethylhexadecyldimethylammonium bromide (EHDA-Br)), anionic (dodecyl sodium sulphate), or non-ionic (alkyl phenoxy polyethoxy ethanol) surfactant. The effect of surfactant, of pH, of initial carbon concentration, and of initial surfactant concentration on the flotation of carbon is investigated. At pH 3, 7, and 10, the cationic surfactant yields the best flotation of carbon, which increases with increasing pH. At pH 7, a suspension containing 800 mg/1 carbon can be reduced to 24 mg/1 in 10 min. with 0·37 mM EHDA-Br. The relative concentrations of carbon and of surfactant must be controlled carefully to yield sufficient free surfactant to obtain a foam but not excessive free surfactant to impair the foam separation process. Foam volumes are controlled by free (non-adsorbed) surfactant.
Sissy Boy Mothering: Male Child Mother Figures in Middle-Grade Fantasy Literature.

As Amanda Diekman and Sarah Murnen (2004) note, studies of “nonsexist” children’s books tend to focus on girls performing stereotypically masculine behaviors without consideration of how boy characters perform gender (p. 381); however, this narrow focus on girl figures in the identification of nonsexist works has two side-effects: appearing to devalue traits traditionally considered feminine and losing sight of male characters’ subversive gender performances. The field of performance studies, focusing on codified performative acts rather than on physical traits such as biological sex, presents a new avenue for understanding how works challenge a sexist hegemony. For example, by examining characters’ performance of food-sharing, traditionally encoded as feminine/motherly, it is possible to identify nuanced performances that enrich our understanding of how gender operates in children’s literature. In Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and Bruce Coville’s Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher, such an examination draws attention to two boy characters, Will Parry and Jeremy Thatcher, who perform a similar combination of feminine/motherly and more traditionally masculine behaviors. Further explorations of this type present the possibility of identifying new sites of gender subversion that further expand our definitions of masculinity and femininity, and of what it means to be nonsexist.
Study of Phase Separation in a Critical Binary Liquid Mixture: Spinodal Decomposition

Light scattering has been used to study phase separation near the critical point in a binary mixture of methanol and cyclohexane. The intensity measurements are in conformity with the spinodal decomposition theory of Cahn. Measurements were also made of the spectral width of the scattered light in the phase separation process.
Notes on the Melanorosauridae, a family of large Prosauropod Dinosaurs (Saurischia: Sauropodomorpha)

Abstract The femur of the anchisaurid (= plateosaurid) prosauropoddinosaur Euskelosaurus brownii Huxley , 1866 from the lower Elliot Formation (Upper Triassic) of South Africa is sigmoidal in posterior view with the fourth trochanter well removed from the medial edge. The sympatric Melanorosaurus readi Haughton , 1924 is not a junior synonym of Euskelosaurus brownii because the femur is straight in posterior view with the fourth trochanter close to the medial edge. In addition to Melanorosaurus, the Melanorosauridae Huene , 1929 includes Camelotia borealis nov. gen. and nov. sp. from the Upper Triassic of England, Riojasaurus incertus Bonaparte , 1969 from the Upper Triassic of Argentina, and possibly some of the posteranial material referred to the? rauisuchian the codontian Sinosaurus triassicus Young , 1948 from the Lower Jurassic of China.
The vanadium effect in nitrogen fixation by azotobacter.

Abstract In some strains of Azotobacter vanadium will substitute for the Mo requirement of N 2 -fixing cell cultures. This V effect was studied using two strains of Azotobacter: A. vinelandii OP and A. chroococcum ATCC 480. Growth rate determinations showed that V could be about 50% as effective as Mo in stimulating growth on N 2 . However, determination of nitrogenase activity in actively growing cultures indicated that the V effect produces only about 10% of the activity of Mo-grown cells. The specific activity, and stability toward storage, air, and heat, of the nitrogenase in cell-free extracts of V-grown Azotobacter cultures were intermediate between those of Mo-grown and Mo-starved cell-free extracts. Purification of V-nitrogenase revealed V to be incorporated into the nitrogenase enzyme as part of a Mo-Fe like type protein which contained V and Mo. On the basis of the activity to Mo ratios in extracts from Mo-limited cultures we conclude that the Mo contained in V-nitrogenase substantially accounts for its observed activity. We propose that the V effect is due to V incorporation into the nitrogenase complex with consequent stabilization of the enzyme and more effective utilization of the small amount of Mo found in Mo-starved cells.
Do Representatives Represent

A LTHOUGH POLITICAL SCIENTISTS have devoted considerable attention to questions concerning the extent to which representatives in legislative bodies actually represent their constituents, there are few opportunities to determine by objective tests whether votes of legislators are consistent with the wishes of their constituents. Partisan factors, ideological principles, complex questions concerning the intensity of interested groups, and problems of interpreting polling results often make it difficult for observers to state with certainty whether a representative has represented his constituents in a given situation. Some developments in Wisconsin in 1957, however, have made possible a test of the extent to which representatives represent which has an objectivity which can seldom be found for political science case studies.' Wisconsin legislators were faced, with a bill in February, 1957, which would establish daylight saving time, subject to the approval of the voters in a referendum to be conducted during the non-partisan and local elections of April, 1957.2 The bill itself would establish daylight time, but would require the approval of the majority of voters to become operative. Most legislators regarded their votes on this bill as votes for or against daylight time. Their votes were, therefore, matters of greater concern than votes for a purely advisory referendum bill, which those legislators who, were in doubt could have easily voted for with the intention of determining what their constituents did want. A larger study of the 1957 Wisconsin Assembly, the lower house of the Wisconsin Legislature, enabled the author to determine something about the extent to which assemblymen represented their constituents on this issue and to determine how assemblymen per-
A novel analytical model for the UTC-TW photo detector for generation of sub-MM wave signals

Generation of sub-MM waves and THz signals is a difficult challenge, which is being addressed by several research groups. We are using the approach of heterodyning two optical signals in a photo detector. The UTC-TW photo detector has been identified as the device of choice for high frequencies. In this paper we present a novel analytical model, which we have developed as a design tool for the above device. The model was validated for a 60 GHz device, and a new 120 GHz device has been designed. In addition performance limits for the UTC-TW PD are calculated by the new model, and it is shown that this device has the potential of delivering more than 1 mW of power at frequencies approaching 1 THz.
Specific absorption rate (SAR) in models of the human head exposed to hand-held UHF portable radios

Specific absorption rate (SAR) was measured in models of the human head exposed to hand-held portable radios (''transceivers'') transmitting at frequencies in the 800-MHz band. An isotropic implantable electric-field probe was used to measure internal fields induced in the head models, and SARs were determined by calculation. As well as determining representative values and distributions for SARs under various conditions, it was shown that antenna type and orientation with respect to the head are important factors affecting energy absorption.
Calmodulin Kinase Inhibition Prevents Development of the Arrhythmogenic Transient Inward Current

Abstract—Although it is widely accepted that afterdepolarizations initiate arrhythmias when action potentials are prolonged, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that action potential prolongation would raise intracellular calcium and thereby activate the arrhythmogenic transient inward current (Iti). Furthermore, given that Iti can be activated by sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release, we tested the hypothesis that inhibition of calmodulin (CaM) kinase would prevent Iti. Isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes were studied with whole-cell–mode voltage clamp. Stimulation with a prolonged action potential clamp, under near-physiological conditions, increased [Ca2+]i. Iti was reproducibly induced in 60 of 60 cells, but Iti was not seen with the use of a shorter action potential waveform (n=12). Iti was associated with a secondary elevation in [Ca2+]i. When [Ca2+]i buffering was enhanced by dialysis with BAPTA (20 mmol/L, n=9), no Iti was present. The Na+/Ca2+ exchanger w...
Positive roles for negative regulators in the mating response of yeast

All cells must detect and respond to changes in their environment, often through changes in gene expression. The yeast pheromone pathway has been extensively characterized, and is an ideal system for studying transcriptional regulation. Here we combine computational and experimental approaches to study transcriptional regulation mediated by Ste12, the key transcription factor in the pheromone response. Our mathematical model is able to explain multiple counterintuitive experimental results and led to several novel findings. First, we found that the transcriptional repressors Dig1 and Dig2 positively affect transcription by stabilizing Ste12. This stabilization through protein–protein interactions creates a large pool of Ste12 that is rapidly activated following pheromone stimulation. Second, we found that protein degradation follows saturating kinetics, explaining the long half-life of Ste12 in mutants expressing elevated amounts of Ste12. Finally, our model reveals a novel mechanism for robust perfect adaptation through protein–protein interactions that enhance complex stability. This mechanism allows the transcriptional response to act on a shorter time scale than upstream pathway activity.
Energy resolution and energy–light response of CsI(Tl) scintillators for charged particle detection

This article describes the crystal selection and quality control utilized to develop and calibrate a high-resolution array of CsI(Tl) scintillator crystals for the detection of energetic charged particles. Alpha sources are used to test the light output variation due to thallium doping gradients. Selection of crystals with better than 1% non-uniformity in light output is accomplished using this method. Tests with a 240 MeV alpha beam reveal that local light output variations within each of the tested CsI(Tl) crystals limit the resolution to about 0.5%. Charge and mass dependences in the energy}light output relationship are determined by calibrating with energetic projectile fragmentation beams. ( 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Discrepancy Between Preference and Actual Adjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer

Abstract Purpose Pretreatment preferences for adjuvant therapy were examined and compared with actual treatment received. Patients and Methods Before definitive surgery, women with node-negative breast cancer were asked to indicate their preference for adjuvant therapy in response to 3 different clinical scenarios. The scenarios provided precise risk, benefit, and side effect information with low-, moderate-, or high-risk risk of death from breast cancer. Contingency table and Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used to examine associations. Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests were used for group comparisons, with the Friedman rank sum test being used for correlated samples. Results A total of 75 women enrolled between February 2002 and April 2005; 24% were aged > 65 years. After definitive surgery, 21% of women had ductal carcinoma in situ, and 89% had receptor-positive disease. There was a significant correlation between risk of recurrence and aggressiveness of treatment preferred ( P P = .004). In the 51 women with invasive receptor-positive tumors, there was a significant difference ( P = .002) in aggressiveness of treatment received based on risk of recurrence. Only 45% of the women received what they had preferred for the level of their risk before surgery. Women were more likely to receive a less aggressive therapy than they preferred initially ( P = .0002). Conclusion This study is among the first to correlate pretreatment preference for therapy with the actual therapy received. Less than half of women received their indicated preference before definitive surgery, with most women receiving less aggressive therapy. Future studies will need to examine this discrepancy.
Energy impact of emerging mobile internet applications on LTE networks: issues and solutions

Mobile Internet applications run on devices such as smartphones and tablets, and have dramatically changed the landscape of applicationgenerated network traffic. The potent combination of millions of such applications and the instant accessibility of high-speed Internet on mobile devices through 3G and now LTE technology has also changed how users themselves interact with the Internet. Specifically, the radio states in LTE such as RRC_Connected and RRC_Idle were designed with more traditional applications such as web browsing and FTP in mind. These traditional applications typically generated traffic only during Active (Connected) state, and once the user session ended, usually the traffic ended too, thus allowing the radio to move to Inactive (Idle) state. However, newer applications such as Facebook and Twitter generate a constant stream of autonomous and/or user generated traffic at all times, thus erasing the previously clear demarcation between Active and Inactive states. This means a given mobile device (or user equipment, in LTE parlance) often ends up moving between Connected and Idle states frequently to send mostly short bursts of data, draining device battery and causing excessive signaling overhead in LTE networks. This problem has grown and attracted the research community's attention to address the negative effects of frequent back and forth transitions between LTE radio states. In this article, we first explore the traffic characteristics of these emerging mobile Internet applications and how they differ from more traditional applications. We investigate their impact on LTE device power and air interface signaling. We then present a survey of state-of-the-art solutions proposed in literature to address the problems, and analyze their merits and demerits. Lastly, we discuss the solutions adopted by 3GPP including the latest developments in Release 11 to handle these issues, and present potential future research directions in this field.
Separation of hazardous organics by reverse osmosis membranes

Extensive experimental studies showed that thin-film, composite membranes can be used effectively for the separation of selected hazardous organic compounds. This waste treatment technique offers definite advantages in terms of high solute separations at low pressures (<2 MPa) and broad pH operating range, and the use of charged membrane would allow the selective separation of some organics from feeds containing high salt concentrations. In addition, feed pre-ozonation of selected organics has been shown to provide significant improvement in flux and rejection characteristics for both charged and uncharged membranes due to formation of ionizable organic acid intermediates during the ozonation that do not interact as strongly with the membrane. It has been shown that the overall ozonation–membrane process could be greatly effective in producing permeate water of high quality while minimizing the volume of waste that must be further treated. Batch adsorption studies were also utilized to understand the membrane flux drop phenomena in non-ozonated solutions.
Treatment of Pediatric Status Epilepticus

Status epilepticus is characterized by a prolonged, self-sustaining seizure or repeated seizures without return to baseline. The clinical manifestations of status epilepticus in children and adults range from overt generalized convulsions to more subtle behavioral manifestations, including unresponsiveness in the setting of the intensive care unit. Status epilepticus is the most common neurologic emergency of childhood. A large proportion of these episodes are the result of a prolonged febrile seizure or an acute symptomatic etiology. Fortunately, status epilepticus occurs without consequence for many children, but for others, it is correlated with long-term neurologic dysfunction or death. Treatment of status epilepticus should commence promptly upon its recognition, using predefined treatment protocols. The goal of treatment is the rapid termination of the seizure, to minimize the acute and chronic effects of this emergency and to allow for the prompt assessment and management of the underlying precipitant. Currently, the drug class of first choice in the in-hospital and out-of-hospital treatment of status epilepticus is the benzodiazepines, which may need to be quickly followed by a next-line agent, as the efficacy of the benzodiazepines is negatively correlated with seizure duration. Traditionally, these next-line agents have included phenobarbital and phenytoin, but emerging evidence supports the use of intravenous formulations of other antiepileptic drugs. If the first two agents fail, high-dose intravenous midazolam or anesthetic therapy should be rapidly initiated. This paper reviews the current treatment options and strategies for pediatric patients with status epilepticus.
Studies with Purple Adenine Mutants in Neurospora Crassa. IV. Lack of Complementation between Different Ad-3a Mutants in Heterokaryons and Pseudowild Types.

Heterokaryon tests on a series of 13 genetically unmarked ad-3A strains of independent origin showed no evidence for interallelic complementation in any pairwise combination. The possibility that such negative results might be inconclusive was investigated with forced heterokaryon tests on genetically marked strnins. No evidence for interallelic complementation in any pairwise combination of these mutants was found in forced heterokaryons grown on unsupplemented medium or medium supplemented with suboptimal levels of adenine. The recovery of true wild type progeny from crosses of different ad-3A mutants with a marked strain of mutant A2 suggest that the ad-3A region consists of an undetermined number of mutable sites, but the lack of asymmetry in marker segregation among the adenine-independent progeny did not permit an ordering of the mutamts with reference to mutant A2 and the adjacent markers hist-2 and nic-2. The failure to recover pseudowild type progeny involving both ad-3A parental chromosomes from the fertile intercrosses provides further evidence for the absence of interallelic complementation in these combinations. The present experiments firmly substantiate the original interpretation of the negative heterokaryon tests with genetically unthe adjacent markers hist-2 and nic-2. The failure to recover pseudowild type progeny involving both ad-3A parental chromosomes from themore » fertile intercrosses provides further evidence for the absence of interallelic complementation in these combinations. The present experiments firmly substantiate the original interpretation of the negative heterokaryon tests with genetically unmarked but isogenic ad-3 mutants: that, under the experimental conditions used, such results are significant and provide evidence for the absence of complementation. The present data are consistent with the ad-3A locus being a one-cistron locus with an undetermined number of recombinable, mutable sites. (auth)« less
Combining genetic and geospatial analyses to infer population extinction in mygalomorph spiders endemic to the Los Angeles region

Although hyperdiverse groups like terrestrial arthropods are almost certainly severely impacted by habitat fragmentation and destruction, few studies have formally documented such effects. In this paper, we summarize the results of a multifaceted research approach to assess the magnitude and importance of anthropogenic population extinction on the narrowly endemic trapdoor spider genus Apomastus. We used geographical information systems modeling to reconstruct the likely historical distribution of Apomastus, and used molecular phylogeographic data to discern population genetic structure and detect genetic signatures of population extinction. In combination, these complementary lines of inference support direct observations of population extinction, and lead us to conclude that population extinction via urbanization has played an important role in defining the modern-day distribution of Apomastus species. This population loss implies coincident loss of genetic and adaptive diversity within this genus, and more generally, suggests a loss of ground-dwelling arthropod population diversity throughout the Los Angeles Basin. Strategies for minimizing this loss are proposed.
Processing and Testing of RE2Si2O7 Fiber–Matrix Interphases for SiC–SiC Composites

Rare-earth disilicates (RE2Si2O7) are investigated for use as oxidation-resistant alternatives to carbon or BN fiber–matrix interphases in ceramic matrix composites (CMC). Dense α, β, γ-Y2Si2O7, and γ-Ho2Si2O7 pellets were formed at 64 MPa and 1050°C–1200°C for 1 h using the field-assisted sintering technique (FAST). Pellet modulus was measured using nanoindentation, and Vickers hardness was measured at loads of 100, 500, and 1000 g. The sliding stress of SCS-0 SiC fibers incorporated in α-, β-, and γ-RE2Si2O7 matrices were measured by fiber push-out. Deformation of RE2Si2O7 after indentation and after fiber push-out was characterized by TEM. Implications of the results for use of RE2Si2O7 as a fiber–matrix interphase in CMCs are discussed.
Identification of the Gene Encoding the Tryptophan Synthase β-Subunit from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

We report the isolation of a Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cDNA that encodes the beta-subunit of tryptophan synthase (TSB). This cDNA was cloned by functional complementation of a trp-operon-deleted strain of Escherichia coli. Hybridization analysis indicated that the gene exists in a single copy. The predicted amino acid sequence showed the greatest identity to TSB polypeptides from other photosynthetic organisms. With the goal of identifying mutations in the gene encoding this enzyme, we isolated 11 recessive and 1 dominant single-gene mutation that conferred resistance to 5-fluoroindole. These mutations fell into three complementation groups, MAA2, MAA7, and TAR1. In vitro assays showed that mutations at each of these loci affected TSB activity. Restriction fragment-length polymorphism analysis suggested that MAA7 encodes TSB. MAA2 and TAR1 may act to regulate the activity of MAA7 or its protein product.
Ligation of RNA Oligomers by the Schistosoma mansoni Hammerhead Ribozyme in Frozen Solution

The interstitial liquid phase within frozen aqueous solutions is an environment that minimizes RNA degradation and facilitates reactions that may have relevance to the RNA World hypothesis. Previous work has shown that frozen solutions support condensation of activated nucleotides into RNA oligomers, RNA ligation by the hairpin ribozyme, and RNA synthesis by a RNA polymerase ribozyme. In the current study, we examined the activity of a hammerhead ribozyme (HHR) in frozen solution. The Schistosoma mansoni hammerhead ribozyme, which predominantly cleaves RNA, can ligate its cleaved products (P1 and P2) with yields up to ~23 % in single turnover experiments at 25 °C in the presence of Mg(2+). Our studies show that this HHR ligates RNA oligomers in frozen solution in the absence of divalent cations. Citrate and other anions that exhibit strong ion-water affinity enhanced ligation. Yields up to 43 % were observed in one freeze-thaw cycle and a maximum of 60 % was obtained after several freeze-thaw cycles using wild-type P1 and P2. Truncated and mutated P1 substrates were ligated to P2 with yields of 14-24 % in one freeze-thaw cycle. A pool of P2 substrates with mixtures of all four bases at five positions were ligated with P1 in frozen solution. High-throughput sequencing indicated that 70 of the 1024 possible P2 sequences were represented in ligated products at 1000 or more read counts per million reads. The results indicate that the HHR can ligate a range of short RNA oligomers into an ensemble of diverse sequences in ice.
Effects of endotoxin in the lungs of neonatal rats : age-dependent impairment of the inflammatory response

Age-dependent maturation of the intrapulmonary inflammatory responses to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was studied because nosocomial gram-negative infections cause morbidity in newborn infants. Escherichia coli LPS or live E. coli were injected into the airways of neonatal or adult rats; intrapulmonary recruitment of leukocytes was measured 6 h later. Neonates showed age- and dose-dependent impairment of intrapulmonary neutrophil recruitment after intratracheal administration of LPS or live E. coli that persisted for the first 28 days of life. Neonatal and adult alveolar macrophages released similar amounts of neutrophil chemotactic activity and tumor necrosis factor in response to incubation with LPS in vitro. Treatment of neonates with intratracheal or systemic interferon-gamma did not augment the response to LPS. Thus, intrapulmonary inflammatory responses to LPS and gram-negative bacteria are impaired early in life and do not approach adult levels until approximately 4 weeks of age.
Multiphasic insulin response to arginine.

SummaryAlthough arginine is known to release insulin, the mechanism is poorly understood. Recently, it has been suggested that glucose-stimulated insulin release involves multiple mechanisms or pools. To determine if similar mechanisms are involved in arginine-induced insulin release, the immediate and more prolonged effects of arginine infusion were investigated in puppies. With intravenous arginine pulses, plasma immunoreactive insulin (IRI) rose dramatically (693% ± 121 of mean control), returning to base line levels within 30 min. With arginine infusions, an initial transient surge of IRI was again noted, but in contrast to the pulse, levels remained elevated throughout the infusion period. The two phases of insulin release observed during prolonged arginine infusion suggest that arginine, like glucose, stimulates insulin release by more than one mechanism.
Distribution of Female Sex Pheromone in the Gut of Periplaneta americana (Orthoptera: Blattidae)

Sturckow and Bodenstein (1966) reported that the severed head of female American cockroaches, Periplaneta americana (L.), elicited a stronger sexual response from males than the thorax and abdomen and suggested that the probable site of production of the sex pheromone was the head; however, their attempts to locate an obvious source by examining sections of the head with the light microscope were unsuccessful. Furthermore, extracts of attractive heads caused less response in males than might be anticipated if the head were the principal source of the pheromone. Then additional investigation showed that considerable amounts of pheromone were present in the feces of female cockroaches. The divisions of the alimentary tract were therefore tested extensively to determine whether the attractant first appears in a specific area of the tract as the insect becomes sexually mature. The results are reported here.
Crystal and molecular structure ofmer-trichlorotris(pyridme)chromium(III), CrCl3(C5H5N)3

The crystal and molecular structure of 1,2,6-trichlorotris(pyridine)chromium(III) is discussed. Monoclinic crystals were indexed in the nonstandard space group, P21/n (No. 14). The unit cell contains four molecules:a=9.088(1) A,b=12.442(1) A,c=15.557(1) A, andβ=91.33°;dx=1.49 g cm−3,dm=1.49 g cm−3. A total of 4056 unique reflections was recorded on a Syntex automated four-circle diffractometer usingMo Kα radiation. After the appropriate Lorentz and polarization corrections were made, the structure was solved by standard Patterson techniques. Least-squares refinement and difference Fourier analysis revealed all other atoms. The final agreement factors areR=0.062 andRw=0.052. The nearly planar pyridine ring systems were found to pivot in a fan-blade arrangement about the plane described by the three nitrogen atoms and one chlorine atom. The geometry about the central chromium atom agrees with the expected octahedral configuration.
Plastic Surgery Case Review: Oral Board Study Guide

Albert S. Woo, ed. Plastic Surgery Case Review: Oral Board Study Guide . New York, NY: Thieme, 2014. ISBN-10: 1604068205, ISBN-13: 978-1604068207, $89.99. ![Graphic][1] Plastic Surgery Case Review: Oral Board Study Guide (edited by Albert Woo, MD) is exactly what the title suggests, a short study guide outlining 50 cases which could be encountered for the plastic surgery oral boards. Each case begins with a classic board-style photo, followed by a one- to two-page description of key points for the work-up, treatment, possible complications, and critical errors. The authors of each chapter (primarily residents, fellows, and faculty at Washington University in St. Louis) developed this book based on the “mock oral” resident examinations from their institution, primarily as a resource for those preparing for the exam. The book's chapters are written concisely, mostly in a bullet-point format and with critical points emphasized in bolded font. The format is clear and easy to follow, with good … Corresponding Author: Dr Angela Cheng, 1365 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322. E-mail: angela.cheng2{at}emory.edu [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
RJR Nabisco and the Runaway Canon

In last Term’s RJR Nabisco, Inc. v. European Community, the Court finished transforming the presumption against extraterritoriality from a tool meant to effectuate congressional intent into a tool for keeping Congress in check. In the hands of the RJR Nabisco majority, the presumption has become less a method for interpreting statutes than a pronouncement on the proper scope of access to U.S. courts, a pronouncement that Congress must labor to displace. Besides the worrisome implications for separation of powers, the majority’s opinion was also disappointing on practical grounds. By applying the presumption too aggressively, the Court missed an opportunity to provide much-needed guidance to judges on how to interpret statutes that rebut it. This Essay thus concludes with suggestions for judges about how to interpret statutes that do indicate Congress’s extraterritorial intent.
Nanoparticle-linked antagonist for leptin signaling inhibition in breast cancer.

Aim To develop a leptin peptide receptor antagonist linked to nanoparticles and determine its effect on viability of breast cancer cells. Methods The leptin antagonist, LPrA2, was coupled via EDAC [1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide] to iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP-LPrA2) to increase its efficacy. IONP-LPrA2 conjugation was confirmed by Western blot and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Human triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-231, HCC1806 and estrogen receptor positive (ER+) MCF-7 cells were analyzed for the expression of the leptin receptor, Ob-R. The effects of leptin and antagonist on levels of leptin-induced STAT3 phosphorylation and cyclin D1, cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, and tumorsphere formation in breast cancer cells were determined. Doses of the chemotherapeutics [cisplatin (Cis), cyclophosphamide (CTX), doxorubicin (Dox) and paclitaxel (PTX)] to effectively reduce cell viability were calculated. The effects of combination treatments of IONP-LPrA2 and chemotherapeutics on cell viability were determined. Results Western blot analysis of coupling reaction products identified IONP-LPrA2 at approximately 100 kD. IONP-LPrA2 significantly decreased leptin-induced pSTAT3 levels in HCC1806 cells and drastically decreased cyclin D1 levels in all cell lines. IONP-LPrA2 significantly reduced leptin-induced S phase progression and cell proliferation in all breast cancer cell lines and the formation of tumorspheres in MDA-MB-231 cells. Also, IONP-LPrA2 showed an additive effect on the reduction of breast cancer cell survival with chemotherapeutics. Cis plus IONP-LPrA2 produced a significant reduction in the survival of MDA-MB-231 and HCC1806 cells. CTX plus IONP-LPrA2 caused a significant decrease in the survival of MDA-MB-231 cells. Dox plus IONP-LPrA2 caused a marked reduction in the survival of HCC1806 cells. Although, PTX plus IONP-LPrA2 did not have a major effect on the viability of the breast cancer cells when compared to PTX alone. Conclusion Present data indicate that IONP-LPrA2 may be a useful adjuvant for chemotherapeutic treatment of breast cancer, particularly for TNBC which lacks targeted therapeutic options.
Spatially selective binding of green fluorescent protein on designed organosilane nanopatterns prepared with particle lithography.

A practical approach for preparing protein nanopatterns has been to design surface templates of nanopatterns of alkanethiols or organosilanes that will selectively bind and localize the placement of biomolecules. Particle lithography provides a way to prepare millions of protein nanopatterns with a few basic steps. For our nanopatterning strategy, organosilanes with methoxy and sulfhydryl groups were chosen as a surface template. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) was selected as a model for patterning. Areas of 2-[methoxy (polyethyleneoxy)6-9propyl]trichlorosilane (MPT-silane) are effective as a matrix for resisting the attachment of proteins, whereas nanopatterns with sulfur groups provide reactive sites for binding linker groups to connect proteins. A protocol with particle lithography was designed to make a surface template of nanopatterns of (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) surrounded by a methoxy terminated matrix. The sulfhydryl groups of the MPTMS nanopatterns were activated with a sulfosuc...
Design and construction of a high-energy photon polarimeter

Abstract We report on the design and construction of a high-energy photon polarimeter for measuring the degree of polarization of a linearly-polarized photon beam. The photon polarimeter uses the process of pair production on an atomic electron (triplet production). The azimuthal distribution of scattered atomic electrons following triplet production yields information regarding the degree of linear polarization of the incident photon beam. The polarimeter, operated in conjunction with a pair spectrometer, uses a silicon strip detector to measure the recoil electron distribution resulting from triplet photoproduction in a beryllium target foil. The analyzing power Σ A for the device using a 75 μ m beryllium converter foil is about 0.2, with a relative systematic uncertainty in Σ A of 1.5%.
Transformation of Normal Astrocytes Into a Tumor Phenotype

Genetic alterations leading to changes in cell cycle regulation and growth factor signaling transform astrocytes into a tumor phenotype. This chapter describes four grades of astrocytic tumors, discusses how genetic alterations lead to astrocyte transformation, and stresses how growth factor and cell cycle signaling networks contribute to this transformation. Finally we discuss cell lines and animal models pertinent to the study of astrocytic tumors.
Dehydration Increases Angiotensin At1a But not At1b Mrna in Mouse Brain

P3 Previous study showed that dehydration in mice produced an increase in brain ANG AT1 receptors. Because the receptor-binding assay can not distinguish the two AT1 receptors, AT1a and AT1b, we usedin situ hybridization methods to distinguish the ANG receptor mRNAs. Specific oligonucleotides probes from the 5’ or 3’ untranslated region of cDNA sequences were used. The objective was to determine the effect of 48-hr dehydration on AT1 mRNA expression in mouse brain. Plasma osmolality and hematocrit were increased after dehydration (349.6±6.1 vs 314.3±4.4 mOsm, p 35 S labeled probes. Analysis was conducted using a phosphor-imaging system and emulsion coated slides. There was specific labeling of areas known to contain Ang AT1 mRNA in rats, anteroventral third ventricle(AV3V), subfornical organ (SFO) and parvicellular paraventricular nucleus (PVN). The pattern of expression was similar for AT1a and AT1b. Dehydration produced an increase in AT1a mRNA in SFO, AV3V and PVN with no changes noted in lateral septal and anterodorsal nucleus. Dehydration produced no effect on AT1b expression. Results show 1) the localization pattern of Ang receptor subtypes in mouse brain with evidence for both AT1a and AT1b and 2) the specific effect of dehydration on AT1a mRNA.
Agra Fabricius (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Harpalinae: Lebiini: Agrina), Arboreal Beetles of Neotropical Forests: The Rare, Non-Neotropical Texas Species at the Generic Northern Limit, with Notes on Their Way of Life

Abstract Two species occurring in southeastern Texas, USA, of the predominately tropical genus Agra Fabricius, 1801 are described as new: oblongopunctata group - Agra rileyi Erwin, new species (type locality: Cameron County, Paloma Blanca Road, near Sabal Palm Sanctuary); and truquii group - Agra wickhami Erwin, new species (type locality: Cameron County, Brownsville). Both species are presently known from extreme southeast Texas in Cameron County, and A. rileyi was also found in Hidalgo and Starr Counties. Agra rileyi adults are associated with sabal palms (Sabal mexicana Mart., Arecaceae) and sugar hackberry trees (Celtis laevigata Willd., Ulmaceae). Agra wickhami is also known from the Yucatan peninsula. Adults of both species have been incorrectly identified in the past in collections and in the literature as Agra oblongopunctata Chevrolat, which occurs only in southern Mexico and Guatemala. A new group, truquii species-group, is established. Many specimen labels studied indicate that “beating vegetat...
Spatial Analyticity on the Global Attractor for the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky Equation

For the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation with L-periodic boundary conditions we show that the radius of space analyticity on the global attractor is lower-semicontinuous function at the stationary solutions, and thereby deduce the existence of a neighborhood in the global attractor of the set of all stationary solutions in which the radius of analyticity is independent of the bifurcation parameter L. As an application of the result, we prove that the number of rapid spatial oscillations of functions belonging to this neighborhood is, up to a logarithmic correction, at most linear in L.
Effect of Shoulder Compliance on Peak High Bar Forces During the Giant Swing

When a female gymnast model does not include shoulder compliance, a simulated optimal performance of a giant swing on the uneven parallel bars is limited by the maximum force that can be exerted on the hands without slipping from the bar (Sheets and Hubbard 2005). To determine the effect of shoulder compliance on hand force, two four-segment gymnast models including an arm, a torso/head and two leg segments are compared: one in which the shoulder is a rigid pin joint, and one which includes shoulder compliance. Experimental values of shoulder stiffness and damping are determined to best describe 1-D vertical damped oscillations of the gymnast/bar system. Optimum shoulder and hip motions during the swing are calculated to complete the most dismount flight revolutions prior to the mass center (CM) passing a specified landing height. Optimization constraints include maximum bar/hand force, physiologic joint limitations, low bar avoidance, and minimum landing distance from the bar. Shoulder and hip motions result from time varying joint torques that are limited by joint angle, angular velocity, isometric strength, and activation factors. Bar release time and joint torque activations at ten nodes equally spaced throughout the swing are optimized using the downhill simplex method. Joint torque activations at all other times are approximated by cubic splines fit to the ten nodes. Performance limitations due to the slipping constraint are not reduced in the compliant model, even though it is active for a shorter period. The compliant shoulder model also produced fewer flight revolutions than the rigid one, 1.417 vs. 1.478, because the shoulder dissipated energy during the swing and stored it at bar release.
Local Context and National Consequences: Homicide Variations Across Time

National concern over the impact of immigration on crime reappeared in 1980 after “Mariel” Cuban refugees landed in southern Florida. This event eventually energized largely dormant anti-immigrant groups and commentators who soon claimed “Hispanic immigrants” threatened “American” society by avoiding assimilation and created national security issues, among other problems (Huntington, 2004; Portes & Stepick, 1993). Immigrant opponents had long focused primarily on the consequences of Mexican border crossers on local economies and crime in the southwestern United States. But, “Mariel” soon generated opposition to the Cuban exodus, galvanized nativists, and nationalized the immigration issue by drawing attention to large numbers of newcomers outside of the Rio Grande area (Huntington, 2004). Unfortunately the immigrant/crime connection was not seriously considered throughout most of the 1980s, and the relevance of studying the effects of immigration on crime was not apparent until recent demographic transformations sparked research in this area.