cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cytosolic extensions directly regulate a rhomboid protease by modulating substrate gating

Intramembrane proteases catalyse the signal-generating step of various cell signalling pathways, and continue to be implicated in diseases ranging from malaria infection to Parkinsonian neurodegeneration. Despite playing such decisive roles, it remains unclear whether or how these membrane-immersed enzymes might be regulated directly. To address this limitation, here we focus on intramembrane proteases containing domains known to exert regulatory functions in other contexts, and characterize a rhomboid protease that harbours calcium-binding EF-hands. We find calcium potently stimulates proteolysis by endogenous rhomboid-4 in Drosophila cells, and, remarkably, when rhomboid-4 is purified and reconstituted in liposomes. Interestingly, deleting the amino-terminal EF-hands activates proteolysis prematurely, while residues in cytoplasmic loops connecting distal transmembrane segments mediate calcium stimulation. Rhomboid regulation is not orchestrated by either dimerization or substrate interactions. Instead, calcium increases catalytic rate by promoting substrate gating. Substrates with cleavage sites outside the membrane can be cleaved but lose the capacity to be regulated. These observations indicate substrate gating is not an essential step in catalysis, but instead evolved as a mechanism for regulating proteolysis inside the membrane. Moreover, these insights provide new approaches for studying rhomboid functions by investigating upstream inputs that trigger proteolysis.
Socially Responsible Marketing (SRM)

Companies practice socially responsible marketing when they accurately communicate to consumers about their positive social and environmental practices. Many corporations engage in the opposite practice, greenwashing, by falsely presenting themselves as committed to ecological sustainability and/or social justice issues. While the former is preferable, the latter has become increasingly sophisticated and dominant in the marketplace. Keywords: business ethics; consumerism; consumption; human rights; sociology of
cis-acting sequences required for expression of the divergently transcribed Drosophila melanogaster Sgs-7 and Sgs-8 glue protein genes.

The Sgs-7 and Sgs-8 glue genes at 68C are divergently transcribed and are separated by 475 bp. Fusion genes with Adh or lacZ coding sequences were constructed, and the expression of these genes, with different amounts of upstream sequences present, was tested by a transient expression procedure and by germ line transformation. A cis-acting element for both genes is located asymmetrically in the intergenic region between -211 and -43 bp relative to Sgs-7. It is required for correct expression of both genes. This element can confer the stage- and tissue-specific expression pattern of glue genes on a heterologous promoter. An 86-bp portion of the element, from -133 to -48 bp relative to Sgs-7, is shown to be capable of enhancing the expression of a truncated and therefore weakly expressed Sgs-3 fusion gene. Recently described common sequence motifs of glue gene regulatory elements (T. Todo, M. Roark, K. Vijay Raghavan, C. A. Mayeda, and E.M. Meyerowitz, Mol. Cell. Biol. 10:5991-6002, 1990) are located within this 86-bp region.
On scientific inference in geophysics and the use of numerical simulations for scientific investigations

Scientific knowledge is acquired in geophysics generally without the benefit of controlled experiments. In this paper, we discuss how scientific inference based on observations occurs in geophysical contexts. We develop a specific approach that uses approximate simultaneity of proposed cause and effect phenomena to infer causality. The approach applies equally well to effect phenomena that follow the cause with a known time delay. We find that, in general, establishing a causal relationship between two phenomena based on simultaneity requires knowledge of how often simultaneity of these phenomena occurs in the absence of causality. We then extend the discussion to using numerical simulations in the scientific inference process. Numerical simulations of physical processes, because they can simulate the values of observations, are often used to infer what physical processes are occurring in nature. We discuss agreement between model output and observations as a basis for inferring the physical processes underlying the observations. We find that an important factor to consider, which we here call the “confusion factor,” is how often it may occur that insufficient model representations of the physical processes nevertheless lead to agreement between model computations and observations. We suggest that models of intermediate or low complexity may have a significant role to play when using geophysical simulations to reach scientific conclusions.
Trace-Element Analysis in Hair: An Evaluation

The use of hair as an index to the concentration of certain elements in tissues has been evaluated with regard to the effect of prior cosmetic and sample-washing treatments on the results. Untreated rat-hair samples were subjected to selected grooming or cosmetic products and then washed by various commonly cited sample-preparation procedures. The hair samples were then analyzed for Ca, Mg, Cu, and Zn, and the concentrations found were compared to those in untreated samples. The results indicate that the values observed can be greatly altered by typical treatments given to human hair, and that such changes are not corrected by the commonly used sample-wash procedures. Thus, obtainable samples of human hair, including pubic hair, cannot be expected to indicate accurately the concentration of these metals that would otherwise be present. Other elements should be similarly studied before confidence can be placed in the validity of data for them.
ALTERING THE NEAR-MISS EFFECT IN SLOT MACHINE GAMBLERS

This study investigated the potential for recreational gamblers to respond as if certain types of losing slot machine outcomes were actually closer to a win than others (termed the near-miss effect). Exposure to conditional discrimination training and testing disrupted this effect for 10 of the 16 participants. These 10 participants demonstrated high percentages of conditional discrimination testing performance, and the remaining 6 participants failed the discrimination tests. The implications for a verbally based behavioral explanation of gambling are presented.
Acetylcarnitine and Cholinergic Receptors

Acetylcarnitine, a naturally occurring compound found in high concentration in heart and skeletal muscle of vertebrates, bears structural resemblance to acetylcholine, and studies have shown that it has slight cholinergic properties. Acetylcarnitine was subjected to conformational analysis by extended Huckel theory (EHT) and complete neglect of differential overlap (CNDO/2) molecular orbital methods. The preferred conformations were examined with respect to their similarity to the Kier and Chothia-Pauling models of cholinergic receptor patterns. The preferred conformations of both isomers did not fit the receptor pattern described by Kier's model, although energy barriers to rotation are low enough to permit accommodation. The Chothia-Pauling model predicts activity for the S-isomer only. These studies partially explain the low cholinergic activity found for acetylcarnitine and the higher activity of (S)-acetylcarnitine compared to the R-isomer.
Electrical characteristics of lossy interconnections for high-performance computer applications

This paper discusses the maximum usable length (''max) for high-speed pulse propagation and its dependence on signal line resistance (R) for a range of wiring technologies. As an example we present results from measurements and analyses of experimental interconnection structures and their agreement is highlighted. The analysis is based on a transmission line model which includes frequency-dependent losses such as skin-effect and dielectric dispersion. The paper addresses the problems found on lossy lines such as reflections rise-time slow down increased delay attenuation and crosstalk. A wide bandwidth test system that relies on novel high frequency and high impedance coaxial probes which was developed to characterize our test structures is described. The limiting factors that affect circuitto- circuit path delays in high-performance computers are then discussed and guidelines are given for maintaining distortion-free propagation of high-speed signals. Simulations of resistive interconnections in a practical digital environment are presented.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Calculations with the nuclear firestreak model.

A model is presented which is capable of calculating simultaneously the spectra of pions, nucleons, and light nuclei from the collision of relativistic heavy ions. It is based on the nuclear thermodynamics of Mekjian and Kapusta. Maximum use is made of the conservation laws for baryon number, charge, energy, momentum, and angular momentum. Single particle inclusive cross sections were calculated and compared with experiment for a wide range of beam energies and observed fragments. Except for some conflicting normalizations and high-energy pions good agreement is found. The density at which hadrons effectively cease to interact, which is the only parameter in the model, is determined to be 0.12 hadrons/${\mathrm{fm}}^{3}$.NUCLEAR REACTIONS Relativistic heavy ions; firestreaks, hadronic thermal equilibrium; calculated differential cross sections of ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$, $p$, $d$, $t$, $^{3}\mathrm{He}$, $^{4}\mathrm{He}$; comparisons with experiment.
THE MODE OF ACTION OF TESTOSTERONE PROPIONATE ON THE FEMALE GENITAL TRACT

IT HAS BEEN demonstrated that menstruation and ovulation are inhibited in monkeys (1, 2) by the administration of testosterone propionate and that its injection into laboratory animals prevents follicular and luteinizing changes in the ovary (12). Browman (3) reported the suppression of the vaginal estrous cycle in rats by injections of testosterone propionate, a finding Papanicolaou (4) has been able to duplicate in women after androgenic therapy. On the basis of these laboratory and clinical investigations the use of testosterone propionate for certain gynecologic conditions, especially functional uterine bleeding, has been advocated and reports (5, 6, 10, 11) as to its value have appeared in the literature. Geist and his coworkers rapidly controlled functional bleeding in 23 of 25 women treated with testosterone propionate in dosages varying from 300 to 1000 mg. per month. They found that regression of the endometrium to a state of hypoplasia or atrophy occurred when large amounts were given and that, ...
Stochastic identification of elastic constants for anisotropic materials

This paper presents an energy-based characterization technique that stochastically identifies the elastic constants of anisotropic materials by modeling the measurement noise and removing its effect unlike conventional deterministic techniques, which deterministically identify the elastic constants directly from noisy measurements. The technique recursively estimates the elastic constants at every acquisition of measurements using Kalman Filter. Owing to the non-linear expression of the measurement model, a Kalman gain has been newly derived and achieves optimal estimation. Since the variances in addition to the means are computed, the proposed technique can not only identify the elastic constants but also describe their certainty as an additional advantage. The validity of the proposed technique and its superiority to the conventional technique were first demonstrated via parametric studies of low-dimensional problems. The proposed technique was then successfully applied to the identification of elastic constants of an anisotropic material. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Southern Analysis of the 230-kD Bullous Pemphigoid Antigen Gene in Normal Humans, Animals, and Patients with Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa

Abstract To begin to characterize the 230-kD bullous pemphigoid antigen (BPA) gene, we performed Southern analysis on genomic DNA with probes derived from 7 kb of cDNA that spans most of the coding region of this hemidesmosomal plaque protein. When hybridized to a 1-kb fragment of this BPA cDNA, normal human genomic DNA digested with EcoRI, BamHI, PstI, HindIII, or EcoRV showed only a single band, which was unique for each enzyme, indicating a single human gene for BPA. To determine if a related gene exists in animals, we used probes covering the full 7 kb of cDNA for Southern analysis of genomic DNA from various vertebrates. A related gene was detected in other mammals (monkey, cow, dog, rabbit, mouse, and rat) but not in chicken, frog, or fish. Under these same hybridization conditions a probe for human β-actin could detect an actin gene in all these species. Furthermore, immunofluorescence showed that an antibody raised against portions of the 230-kD BPA bound to the epidermal basement membrane of mammals but not that of a bird or amphibian. Finally, because most patients with junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB) have defective hemidesmosomes in ultrastructure, and probably function, we analyzed genomic DNA from these patients. No restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) were detected when the DNA from 11 normals and 8 JEB patients (representing 16 possible defective genes) was digested with BamHI, EcoRI, or PstI and hybridized to any part of the cDNA. These findings indicate that 1) there is a single BPA gene in humans; 2) a closely related gene exists in other mammals but not birds, amphibia, or fish; and 3) gross abnormalities of the BPA gene are not characteristic of JEB patients.
Spinal cord astrocytomas: long-term results comparing treatments in children

Technology enabling radical resection has expanded treatment options for children with spinal cord astrocytomas. Comparison of long-term survival and neurological function after complete tumor removal with more conservative treatment may determine whether radical surgery can improve outcome in well-differentiated and anaplastic spinal cord astrocytomas. In all, 18 children with spinal cord astrocytomas were initially treated between 1976 and 1992 with biopsy in 6, subtotal removal in 7, and complete resection in 5. Seven had anaplastic tumors. Nine children treated before 1988 received radiotherapy. Survival after a median follow-up of 11 years was 82% (9/11). Five patients with anaplastic tumors are alive between 12 and 18 years after treatment. No patient relapsed after total resection, whereas more than two-thirds treated with other than complete resection relapsed within 3 years (P=0.029). All but 1 patient with symptomatic relapse received radiotherapy (P=0.059). Magnetic resonance imaging more than 3 years postoperatively showed no recurrences in 13 of the 15 survivors and asymptomatic progression in the other 2. Although excellent long-term survival was seen, frequent relapse was associated with either incomplete resection or radiotherapy. Prolonged relapse-free survival was observed in all patients treated with complete resection, including 3 with anaplastic tumors.
The role of alkali cations in zeolite synthesis from silicate solutions containing N,N,N-trimethyl-1-adamantammonium cations

Zeolite synthesis from aqueous N,N,N-trimethyl-1-adamantammonium (TMAA+)-alkali (Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+) silicate mixtures is studied using X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and29Si magic angle spinning (MAS),1H-13C cross-polarization (CP) MAS and1H-29Si CP MAS NMR spectroscopies. SSZ-24 forms in the presence of potassium cations, and SSZ-31 crystallizes in the presence of sodium cations. This is the first report of SSZ-31 synthesis from Na-TMAA silicate mixtures. Unknown silicates form in the presence of rubidium and cesium cations, whereas no crystalline material is observed in synthesis mixtures devoid of alkali cations. The alkali cations do not appear to serve as templates or void fillers during zeolite crystallization, nor do they stabilize soluble silicate anions which serve as building blocks during zeolite crystallization. Rather, the alkali cations appear to regulate the transformation of the amorphous synthesis gel into either crystalline zeolite or other silicate phases.
Studies on a 32S component of nuclear RNA

Abstract An RNA component having a sedimentation constant of 32S has been isolated from nuclei of rat liver and Novikoff hepatoma cells in tissue culture in good yield. Pulselabeling studies in vivo and in vitro indicated that this species of nuclear RNA does not bear a precursor relationship to other ribosomal components, suggesting that it is a relatively stable component of nuclear RNA. This RNA was shown to have slightly higher adenine.+ uridine:guanine + cytosine base ratios than the 28S ribosomal RNA by means of 32 P labeling in vivo . The possible functions of such a relatively stable nuclear RNA component are discussed.
3D vacuum ARC breakdown simulation: Many challenges and some solutions

Summary form only given. We present our current capabilities and plans targeting the simulation of 3D vacuum arc discharge in realistic geometries. Vacuum arc discharge is an incredibly challenging problem due to the enormous dynamic changes in plasma growth, collisional processes, and time scales. Our simulation model targets a co-planar Cu-Cu vacuum breakdown experiment. We will estimate the computational requirements for this physically relevant breakdown system assuming a fully kinetic description. A fully kinetic description is required to accurately capture the initial breakdown. Progress on unstructured mesh collisional PIC methodology, dynamic particle weighting, managing multiple temporal and spatial scales, electrode models, and efficient parallel scaling will be addressed.
Bayesian Estimation of Random Coefficient Dynamic Factor Models

Dynamic factor models (DFMs) have typically been applied to multivariate time series data collected from a single unit of study, such as a single individual or dyad. The goal of DFMs application is to capture dynamics of multivariate systems. When multiple units are available, however, DFMs are not suited to capture variations in dynamics across units. The aims of this study are (a) to propose a random coefficient DFM (RC-DFM) to statistically model variations of dynamics across multiple units using the Bayesian method, (b) to illustrate the use of the proposed procedure by applying RC-DFMs to affect data collected from multiple dyads in romantic relationships, and (c) to evaluate the performance of the RC-DFMs with Bayesian estimation through simulation analyses. The results from the simulation analyses show that the Bayesian estimation of RC-DFMs works well in recovering parameters including both fixed and random effects. A number of practical considerations are provided to guide future research on usin...
A completion functor on modules and algebras

A useful method in the study of an Abelian group is consideration of its completions with respect to various popular topologies, e.g., p-adic topologies. A flaw in this method is that it is not always applicable; a group may fail to be Hausdorff and thus have no completion. In this paper we define the “completion” of a group G (more generally, of a module over a Dedekind ring R) as Ext(Q/R, G), and we observe that this construction has properties reminiscent of metric completions. These results are really folklore, based on results of Harrison [j’] and Nunke [9] (see also Matlis [S]), and are compiled in Section 2. In the next section, axioms are given for the module Ext(Q/R, G) and for the functor Ext(Q/R, ). Section 4 makes the topological analogy precise by furnishing modules with a topology (in which, unfortunately, addition need not be jointly continuous, but which is TX if and only if the module is reduced). The “completions” defined algebraically as Ext’s are exactly those modules which are complete in the sense that they are closed whenever they are imbedded as submodules. The next section gives some applications to groups. The final section shows that if one completes the underlying R-module of an R-algebra (where R is Dedekind), the resulting completion is an R-algebra. For a large class of algebras, the completion is faithfully flat.
Computed tomography scans as an objective measure of disease severity in chronic rhinosinusitis.

ObjectivesA truly objective method of measuring disease severity in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has only recently existed. We evaluated computed tomography (CT) scans of CRS patients using this novel objective 3D computerized system and compared results with a novel 2D computerized analysis of a single coronal slice through the osteomeatal complex (OMC) and subjective methods including Lund-Mackay and Zinreich’s modified Lund-Mackay.Study DesignProspective multicenter study.SettingTwo academic tertiary referral centers.Subjects and MethodsForty-six adults with a diagnosis of CRS underwent CT examination and received an intramuscular triamcinolone injection, dosage weight dependent, followed by CT scan 4 to 5 weeks later. Recruitment lasted 21 months. Scans were evaluated with all 4 scoring methods over 5 months.ResultsThe Lin’s concordance class correlation (CCC) of the OMC method revealed the best correlation to the 3D volumetric computerized values (0.915), followed by the Zinreich (0.904) and Lund-Mac...
Density simulations in magnetic fluid-based separators

The effect of magnet pole design on the magnetic field distribution in a magnet gap for a magnetic fluid-based separator was analyzed by simulation, using a finite element software package for magnet design, and the results were compared to measured values. Good agreement was obtained between the simulated and experimental values. The effective densities of the magnetic fluid within the separation zone were modeled by combining magnetic field gradient values and fluid magnetization data. These results also compared well with the observed values. Moreover, the results confirmed the existence of density gradients within the separation zone. Simulation studies were used to demonstrate that non-uniformity in the effective density of the magnetic fluid could be reduced by magnet shape modification.
Continuity and change in the social competence of children with autism, down syndrome, and developmental delays

The aims of this longitudinal study were: (1) to assess the continuity and change in diagnosis, intelligence, and language skills in children with autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental delays, (2) to specify the deficits in social competence and language skills in these children, and (3) to identify precursors in the preschool period of gains in language skills and of peer engagement in the mid-school years. The initial sample consisted of 70 children with autism, 93 children with Down syndrome, 59 children with developmental delays, and 108 typically developing children, with the first three groups of children studied when they were between 2 and 6 years of age. At follow-up, 51 children with autism, 71 children with Down syndrome, and 33 children with developmental delays were assessed at mean ages around 10-13 years. The long-term follow-up showed little change in the diagnosis of autism but sizeable improvements in intellectual and language abilities within the autistic group, a pattern that was not seen in the children with Down syndrome. Unique deficits in joint attention, some forms of representational play, responsiveness to the emotions of others, and initiation of peer engagement were identified in the autistic children, whereas the children with Down syndrome seemed to have a specific deficit only in language. Joint attention skills were concurrently associated with language abilities in all groups and predicted long-term gains in expressive language for the children with autism. Children with autism, regardless of their level of functioning, were less socially engaged with classmates than the other developmentally disabled children because they infrequently initiated and accepted play bids, not because they were rebuffed by peers. Early nonverbal communication and play skills were predictors of the frequency of initiations of peer play for the children with Down syndrome as well as the extent of peer engagement of the children with autism. These results suggest that improvements in early communication and play skills may have long-term consequences for later language and social competence in these groups of children.
Assessing and teaching what we value: The relationship between college-level writing and critical thinking abilities

Washington State University (WSU), has developed two large-scale assessment programs to evaluate student learning outcomes. The largest, the Writing Assessment Program, diagnoses student writing abilities at entry and mid-career to determine the type of support needed to navigate the expectations of our writing-rich curriculum. The second, the Critical Thinking Project, has developed an assessment instrument, the WSU Guide to Rating Critical Thinking, adaptable by faculty to their instructional and evaluative methodologies, which we can employ across the curriculum to evaluate student critical thinking outcomes. The development of these two measures has provided insights into limitations of each measure and the student learning outcomes produced. Further, the results of our studies question current mainstream writing assessment practices, common assumptions about writing and critical thinking, and several aspects of higher education classroom and curricular praxis.
Molecular Characterization of a Second Mouse Pancreatic Polypeptide Receptor and Its Inactivated Human Homologue

Abstract The family of mammalian neuropeptide Y (NPY)/peptide YY (PYY)/pancreatic polypeptide (PP) receptors comprises several G protein-coupled receptors, i.e. Y1, Y2, and Y4/PP1. We now report cloning of a novel member of this family named PP2. The coding region of the mouse PP2 gene reveals no introns and predicts a seven transmembrane domain (TM) receptor of 371 amino acids. Percent identities of the mouse PP2 to mouse Y1, mouse Y4/PP1 and human Y2 receptors are 53, 42, and 31, respectively. The mouse PP2 receptor expressed in COS cells binds rat 125I-PP with high affinity, i.e. IC50 = 65 pM. Pharmacological characterization of 125I-PP binding shows a rank order of potency of PP ≫ PYY ≥ NPY, which is similar to that of the mouse Y4/PP1 receptor. Mouse PP2 transcripts were not detectable by Northern analysis in adult tissues and in 11-, 15-, and 17-day-old embryos. However, a 9.8-kb PP2 transcript was detectable in 7-day-old mouse embryo, i.e. prior to the organogenesis of pancreas and the onset of PP production. We have also cloned the human homologue of PP2, which is a single copy gene and maps to human chromosome 5q31. Surprisingly, the human PP2 cDNAs and gene sequences display a single base deletion in the coding region. This frameshifting mutation predicts a truncated receptor of 290 amino acids without TM7. Transfection of COS-7 cells with several different human PP2 expression constructs failed to confirm any specific binding of 125I-PP, 125I-PYY, or 125I-NPY to cell membranes. These data suggest that in mouse there are at least two PP receptors, Y4/PP1 and PP2, whereas in humans, PP2 is either functionally inactive or it has acquired a PP-independent function.
Mycorrhizal status of hemiparasitic vascular plants in Montana, U.S.A.

The mycorrhizal status of 22 species of vascular plants from different habitats in Montana was assessed using standard techniques. All species from the Scrophulariaceae were essentially non-mycorrhizal, but Comandra umbellata (Santalaceae) showed moderate levels of VAM infection. Possible mechanisms for the lack of mycotrophy in hemiparasitic Scrophulariaceae are discussed.
An argument for traditional posterior cervical fusion techniques: evidence from 35 cases.

Abstract Background For patients with adequate preservation of the cervical lordotic curvature, focal laminectomy (1-3 levels), and multilevel posterior fusion offer decompression with immediate stabilization. For lateral mass/pedicle screw techniques, CT-guided cadaveric studies document a 13.4% incidence of noncritical, and 10.6% frequency of critical pedicle breaches. Without CT guidance, fewer critical breaches (1.4%-9%) occur in patients who exhibit even fewer neurovascular injuries. Alternatively, for 35 patients undergoing focal laminectomy with posterior fusions using spinous process-based wiring techniques, no screw-related neurovascular injuries occurred, whereas 100% of patients fused. Methods Patients averaged 65 years of age (22 men and 13 women) and exhibited severe myelopathy (Nurick grade 4.1). Dynamic x-ray and MR/CT studies documented preserved cervical lordotic curvatures and cord compression (stenosis, OPLL, OYL, olisthy). Patients required, on average, 2 level laminectomies (range, 1-3) and 7 level posterior fusions. Fusions used spinous process-based wiring techniques with iliac autograft/bone graft expanders. One-year SF-36 and 2-year fusion (dynamic x-rays/2D-CT) rates and Odom's criteria were assessed. Results Two years postoperatively, patients exhibited mild radiculopathy (Nurick grade 0.3). Complications included 2 transient root injuries (diabetic patients), 2 wound infections, 1 wound breakdown, no cord injuries, and no mortalities. Fusion occurred in 100% of patients an average of 5.2 months postoperatively. Odom's criteria revealed 29 good/excellent and 6 fair/poor outcomes, whereas SF-36 data revealed improvement on all 8 health scales. Conclusions Focal cervical laminectomies using multilevel posterior fusions, based on spinous process wiring techniques, resulted in high fusion rates with limited morbidity.
Interaction of xenobiotics with estrogen receptors α and β and a putative plasma sex hormone-binding globulin from channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

Abstract Estrogens are important regulators of physiological functions. Although environmental contaminants (xenoestrogens) which interfere with estrogen signaling are of increasing concern, there is only limited information about their ability to interact with estrogen-binding proteins (SHBG) or receptors (ER). Recombinant ERα and β were obtained after transient transfection of COS-7 cells with channel catfish ER cDNA. Plasma from adult female channel catfish was the source of SHBG. Tritiated estradiol (3H-E2) was used in standard radioligand-binding assays to characterize the binding properties of channel catfish SHBG (ccfSHBG) and to estimate the inhibition constants for various estrogenic compounds. Binding of 3H-E2 to ccfSHBG was saturable and of high affinity with a Kd (±SE) of 1.9 ± 0.14 nM and a Bmax of 14.3 ± 2.4 pmol/mg protein (n=3 assays). Additionally, ccfSHBG displayed binding specificity for androgens and estrogens. Endosulfan, 4-nonylphenol, and 4-octylphenol displaced 3H-E2 binding to ccfSHBG albeit only at very high concentrations, whereas dieldrin and atrazine showed little displacement activity even at the highest concentrations used. The synthetic estrogen ethynylestradiol had higher affinity than E2 for ccfSHBG. This finding differs from results with human and rainbow trout SHBG. The alkylphenolic compounds (4-octylphenol and 4-nonylphenol) displayed some ability to displace 3H-E2 binding from ERα and β at high concentrations, but dieldrin and atrazine had little binding activity for both ER subtypes and endosulfan for ERβ. The xenobiotics tested generally showed equivalent or greater affinity for ERα than ERβ, whereas natural estrogens had much greater affinity for ERβ than ERα. These observations suggest that results of studies using fish tissue ER extracts must be interpreted with caution, since both ER subtypes may be present, and that the binding of xenoestrogens to SHBG must be taken into account for proper assessment of endocrine disruption caused by environmental contaminants.
Health and access to care: Perspectives of homeless youth in Baltimore City, U.S.A.

Homeless youth suffer from high rates of health problems, yet little is known about their perceptions of or context for their own health issues. In this study, a combination of qualitative techniques from participatory rural appraisal and rapid assessment procedures was used to investigate the perceptions of health needs of shelter-based youth in Baltimore, MD in the U.S.A. The most common youth-identified health problems included STDs, HIV/AIDS, pregnancy, depression, drug use and injuries. These correlate well with more objective health status data for the same youth. The youth spoke of environmental safety threats of violence and victimization by adults, as well as racism and sexism in their lives. Youth reported that trusted adult figures such as grandmothers are important sources of health advice. Many homeless youth from less than ideal family situations remain in contact with and continue to seek advice from parents and other family members. Health interventions with urban street youth need to acknowledge the primacy of the social context for these youth, as well as the reality of violence as a daily health threat.
IMRT verification using a radiochromic/optical-CT dosimetry system

This work represents our first experiences relating to IMRT verification using a relatively new 3D dosimetry system consisting of a PRESAGETM dosimeter (Heuris Inc, Pharma LLC) and an optical-CT scanning system (OCTOPUSTM TM MGS Inc). This work builds in a step-wise manner on prior work in our lab.
Digital Modeling and Digital Redesign of Analog Uncertain Systems Using Genetic Algorithms

Genetic algorithms (GAs) are utilized to e nd the equivalent discrete-time uncertain model of a continuoustime uncertain system for digital simulation and digital design of the continuous-time uncertain system. The developed digitalinterval model providesless conservativeresults than thoseobtained by the conventionalbilinear transform method. Also, the global optimization searching technique provided in the GAs is used to determine the digital control law, taking into account the intersample behavior and implementation errors, for digital control of continuous-time parametric uncertain systems. The developed digitally redesigned control law is able to optimally match the states of the analogously controlled uncertain system and those of the digitally controlled sampleddata uncertain system. Moreover, it produces less conservative results than those obtained by the existing interval method. An illustrative example is included to demonstrate the proposed method.
Metabolism of glucose and glycogen in Limulus polyphemus in vivo.

1. 1. As much as 70% of Tritium administered on C-6 of glucose is excreted as 3H2O within 3 hr, showing an extensive, rapid glycolytic degradation of glucose in Limulus. About 80% of the 14C found in Limulus blood one hour after injection of glucose-14C is in the anionic fraction. 2. 2. Preferential loss of carbon from C-1 of glucose prior to incorporation into glycogen in paired in vivo experiments indicates a significant occurrence of the oxidative (pentose phosphate) pathway of glucose metabolism. 3. 3. Glucose is more rapidly and extensively incorporated into glycogen of muscle than into that of hepatopancreas, indicative of the relative importance of muscle in metabolic turnover in Limulus. Maximum incorporation into leg muscle glycogen of a large individual Limulus was seen at about 4–6 hr after a single injection of glucose-14C. 4. 4. Little gluconeogenesis from lactate or pyruvate was observed. 5. 5. The glucose of Limulus blood, occurring normally at levels of only about 3–5 mg per 100 ml, undergoes rapid metabolic changes and utilization.
The liver in Crigler-Najjar syndrome, protoporphyria, and other metabolic disorders.

The liver may be involved in metabolic disorders in two ways, (i) Due to its critical role in several metabolic pathways, the liver may be the major site of expression of a biochemical abnormality. For example, in Type I Crigler-Najjar syndrome, absence of hepatic bilirubin glucuronyl transferase activity causes severe unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia which invariably leads to death from kernicterus. (ii) The liver may also be structurally damaged by the metabolic disorder. Several patients with protoporphyria have died in hepatic failure due to liver damage caused by protoporphyrin deposition. Numerous other metabolic disorders can be sited in which significant liver involvement occurs. In many of these disorders, there is no effective medical therapy.
Adversarial inferencing for generating dynamic adversary behavior

ABSTRACT In the current world environment, the rapidly changing dynamics of organizational adversaries are increasing the difficulty for Military Analysts and Planners to accurately predict potential actions. As an integral part of the planning process, we need to assess our planning strategies against the range of potential adversarial actions. This dynamic world environment has established a necessity to develop tools to assist in establishing hypotheses for future adversary actions. Our research investigated the feasibility to utilize an adversarial tool as the core element within a predictive simulation to establish emergent adversarial behavior. It is our desire to use this intelligent adversary to generate alternative futures in performing Course of Action (COA) analysis. Such a system will allow planners to gauge and evaluate the effectiveness of alternative plans under varying actions and reactions. This research focuses on one of many possible techniques required to address the technical challenge of generating intelligent adversary behaviors. This development activity addresses two research components. First, establish an environment in which to perform the feasibility experiment and analysis. The proof of concept performed to analyze and assess this feasibility of utilizing an adversarial inferencing system to provide emergent adversary behavior is discussed. Second, determine if the appropriate interfaces can be reasonably established to provide integration with an existing force structure simulation framework. The authors also describe the envisioned simulation system and the software development performed to extend the inferencing engine and system interface toward that goal. The experimental results of observing emergent adversary behavior by applying the simulated COAs to the adversary model will be discussed. The research addresses numerous technological challenges in developing the necessary methodologies and tools for a software-based COA analysis framework utilizing intelligent adversarial intent. Keywords : Predictive Battlespace Simulation, Adversary Behavior, Inferred Behavior, Course of Action Analysis
The absence of positive feedback between estrogen and luteinizing hormone in sexually immature girls.

Extract: The development of estrogen-mediated luteinizing hormone (LH) release (positive feedback) was studied in prepubertal, pubertal, and adult females. The optimum means of eliciting positive feedback was established by administering graded doses of 17β-estradiol (E2) for 5 days to 11 women during the early follicular phase of 14 menstrual cycles. Three groups of adult subjects were formed based on the peak levels of E2 in plasma attained: 100–200 pg/ml, 200–300 pg/ml, and >300 pg/ml. In all groups, LH values in plasma fell to a nadir at a mean time of 2 days after the initiation of injections and then rose sharply while plasma E2 levels in plasma still remained elevated. The magnitude of the LH elevations appeared to relate to the levels of E2 in plasma. In contrast to the results in adult women, three prepubertal girls and an 11-year-old girl with gonadal dysgenesis did not evidence positive feedback when given similar estrogen courses. Levels of E2 in plasma in the prepubertal subjects ranged between 100 and 300 pg/ml and both LH and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) remained suppressed. One early pubertal girl displayed a small increment in LH in the presence of elevated exogenous estrogen levels. One midpubertal, premenarchal girl with adult levels of gonadotropins and precocious puberty due to an hypothalamic cyst revealed a large LH rise during E2 administration both before and after drainage of the cyst. Finally, a 14-year-old girl with gonadal dysgenesis and adult castrate levels of gonadotropins also displayed positive feedback. Speculation: Puberty in women is a multistage process which involves alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. A change in sensitivity of the negative feedback system is associated with rising gonadotropin levels early in the course of sexual maturation. Ovulatory potential is dependent on the development of positive feedback, an event which occurs later in the course of pubescence.
Five-year outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.

Abstract Background Evidence of the positive effects of gastric banding on patients with diabetes has continued to increase. The long-term follow-up of such patients, however, has been limited. The purpose of the present study was to provide the long-term outcomes of patients with diabetes undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding at our institution. Methods From January 2002 through June 2004, 102 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. The study parameters included preoperative age, gender, race, body mass index, duration of diabetes before surgery, fasting glucose level, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and medications used. Preoperative data from all patients were collected prospectively and entered into an institutional review board-approved database. Beginning in 2008, efforts were made to collect the 5-year follow-up data. Results Of the 102 patients, 7 were excluded because they had not reached the 5-year follow-up point (2 patients had had the band removed early and 5 patients had died; 2 of cancer and 3 of unknown causes), leaving 95 patients for the present study. The mean preoperative age was 49.3 years (range 21.3–68.4). The mean preoperative body mass index was 46.3 kg/m 2 (range 35.1–71.9) and had decreased to 35.0 kg/m 2 (range 21.1–53.7) by 5 years of follow-up, yielding a mean percentage of excess weight loss of 48.3%. The mean duration of the diabetes diagnosis before surgery was 6.5 years. Of 94 patients, 83 (88.3%) were taking medications preoperatively, with 14.9% overall taking insulin. At 5 years postoperatively, 33 (46.5%) of 71 patients were taking medications, with 8.5% taking insulin. The mean fasting preoperative glucose level was 146.0 mg/dL. The glucose level had decreased to 118.5 mg/dL at 5 years postoperatively ( P = .004). The mean HbA1c level was 7.53 preoperatively in 72 patients and was 6.58 at 5 years postoperatively in 64 patients ( P Conclusion Our data have demonstrated that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding results in a substantial sustained positive effect on diabetes in morbidly obese patients, with a significant reduction in HbA1c and an 80% overall rate of improvement/remission.
What is so exciting about non-linear viscous flow in glass, molecular dynamics simulations of brittle fracture and semiconductor–glass quantum composites

Abstract Results of recent research are reported in the areas of: (1) non-linear viscous flow in glass, (2) molecular dynamics of brittle fracture and (3) optical properties of semiconductor–glass quantum composites. In all three areas, a fundamental understanding of the underlying behavior of materials has emerged from key experiments or computer simulations. These are described here: (1) The non-linear viscosity studies have established the behavior of viscosity at high strain rates in silicate glasses. Results of measurements show marked shear thinning associated with changes in the glass structure at high shear rates. A strain-rate-dependent (SRD) viscosity equation is presented which describes well the behavior of silicate glasses. (2) Molecular dynamics computer simulations of amorphous and crystalline silica have examined brittle fracture under applied uniaxial strain. Their results begin to reveal the underlying atomic processes that take part in free surface formation and fracture. For example, an examination of the atomic dynamics at the crack tip reveals that cracks form by the coalescence of pre-existing voids in the glass structure and that fracture surfaces are formed as silicon ions are shielded from the surface by oxygen ions resulting in a predominance of oxygen ions on the fracture surface. The results also suggest a mechanism for the formation of mirror, mist and hackle regions in the fractography of fractured surfaces. (3) Experimental studies of the optical properties of semiconductors formed in a glass matrix were conducted to examine the effect of size confinement on the electronic bandgap of the semiconductors. The results reveal differences in behavior between direct-gap semiconductors (CdS, CdSe and CdTe) and indirect-gap semiconductors (Si and Ge). An analysis of the data shows that the expected blue shift in bandgap energy of direct-gap semiconductors that results from reduced crystal sizes saturates at very small sizes due to the mixing of states between conduction band side valleys and the central valley. This effect does not appear to dominate indirect-gap semiconductors allowing their size-induced bandgap blue shift to cover the entire range of visible wavelengths. This effect suggests the use of quantum confined indirect-gap materials such as Si and Ge in stacks of films with different bandgaps to produce solar cells with increased theoretical efficiency.
Nonlinear vortex trail dynamics

The nonlinear evolution of periodic disturbances on vortex trails is considered. In addition to following small initial perturbations, large amplitude initial disturbances of the vortex trails are also studied. It is shown that the equations support a rich variety of essentially nonlinear solutions including unbounded and quasisteady ones. These solutions are found to correspond to various modes of vortex clustering in the physical plane. At the close of the paper, comparisons of these results with recent numerical and experimental findings on the wakes behind stationary cylinders, and also transversely oscillating bluff objects, are made.
Evaluating vitality and predicting mortality in spot prawn, Pandalus platyceros, using reflex behaviors

Abstract Evaluating vitality and predicting mortality in commercially exploited crustaceans is increasingly important for reducing discard mortality and for improving handling and shipping for live markets. A suite of 10 reflex actions were identified in spot prawns ( Pandalus platyceros ) that vary in sensitivity to injury and type of stressor. After establishing a baseline for stereotypic reflexes, prawns were subjected to physiological stress (emersion up to 60 min) and physical trauma (dropping). The prawns were tolerant of air exposure up to 40 min, but susceptible to injuries from dropping and the results within treatments were variable. However, mortality of individuals over a 30-day recovery period was closely related to a simple reflex impairment score calculated as the sum of reflexes lost (range = 0–10) and the effects of different injuries were additive. Logistic regression indicated that reflex impairment was an excellent predictor of delayed mortality (87.5% correct predictions) across prawn size (35–48 mm carapace length) and treatment types. A sigmoid curve describing the relationship between impairment and mortality was termed a Reflex Action Mortality Predictor. This RAMP approach should be a valuable tool in practical experiments related to both discard mortality and handling live crustaceans without the need for tagging or long-term holding.