cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Worry about Skin Cancer Mediates the Relation of Perceived Cancer Risk and Sunscreen Use

Preventive health behaviors are believed to be motivated in part by a person’s perception of risk for a particular health problem. Risk contains a cognitive component, beliefs about the chances of a health problem occurring, and an affective component, fear or worry about the health problem. Although both have been shown to influence behavior, the nature of their interrelation as an influence on behavior has not been examined. Data from the 2005 Health Information National Trends Survey, a US nationally-representative telephone survey was analyzed. Participants reported perceived absolute and comparative risk for skin cancer, feelings of worry about skin cancer, and sunscreen use behavior. Analyses examined main effects models for the relation between perceived risk, worry, and sunscreen use, as well as both moderated and mediated models. For both absolute and comparative risk, the relation between cognitively-based perceived risk for skin cancer and sunscreen use was fully mediated by feelings of worry, as evidenced by significant direct effects of worry (bs > 0.046, ps 0.19, ps < 0.01). When worry was included in the models, direct effects of risk perceptions were non-significant (bs < 0.11, ps < 0.10). No evidence was found for moderated effects of worry on the relation between risk and behavior. While cognitive risk appraisals do influence decision making and may be addressed by interventions, these findings demonstrate that affectively-based risk components play a key role in behavior regulation. Affectively-based risk might be an effective target for interventions and should be incorporated more fully in decision-making models.
Long-term microfluidic cultures of myotube microarrays for high-throughput focal stimulation

We have developed a microfluidic cell culture method that allows for the formation of linear isolated myotubes organized in a parallel microarray. Attachment and spreading of cells are confined within microtracks of cell-adherent proteins separated by a protein-repellent coating. Signaling molecules or other molecules of interest can be focally delivered to the myotubes using heterogeneous microfluidic streams. We have used the method to focally deliver agrin (a molecule implicated as a postsynaptic organizer), which leads to localized acetylcholine receptor clustering. These techniques can be modified to accommodate other cell types and can be adapted to virtually any bioactive molecule such as signaling factors or drugs. This protocol features two major techniques that can be utilized simultaneously or independently to (i) micropattern cells using surface chemical modification and (ii) use a microfluidic platform for culturing and focal stimulation of cells with molecules of interest. Device design, fabrication and assembly can be completed in 3 days.
Oxidation of Fat in Model Systems Related to Dehydrated Foods.a II. Composition and Position of Dispersed Lipid Components and Their Effect on Oxidation Rates

SUMMARY Oxidation rates at elevated temperatures of model dehydrated systems containing dispersed lipids are influenced by concentration of the components, type of dispersing medium, and position of the lipid film with respect to the dispersing medium. Generally, the proteins decreased, and polymeric carbohydrates accelerated, oxidation rates. Arginine and lysine salts of safflower fatty acids were extremely stable. Phospholipids had a stabilizing influence when dispersed with the fat and the dispersing medium prior to freeze-drying or when applied as a film between the dry medium and the fat film. When the positions of the fat and the phospholipid films were reversed, the protective action of the phospholipids on the stability of the system decreased markedly.
CFTR-regulated chloride transport at the ocular surface in living mice measured by potential differences.

PURPOSE To define the role of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in Cl(-) secretion at the mouse ocular surface in vivo. METHODS Open-circuit potential differences (PDs) across the fluid-bathed ocular surface were measured in anesthetized wild-type and cystic fibrosis (CF) mice in response to Cl(-) ion substitution and transport agonists and inhibitors. RESULTS Basal ocular surface PD was -23 +/- 1 mV (SE; 20 wild-type mice), depolarizing to -16 +/- 2 mV after amiloride, then hyperpolarizing to -34 +/- 3 mV after low Cl(-). CFTR activation by forskolin or a selective activator caused further sustained hyperpolarization to -50 to -60 mV. UTP produced a comparable but transient hyperpolarization. The CFTR inhibitors CFTR(inh)-172 and GlyH-101 largely reversed agonist- but not low Cl(-)-induced hyperpolarizations. PD in CF mice hyperpolarized by 2.1 mV after low Cl(-) and was insensitive to CFTR activators or inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS CFTR provides a major pathway for mouse ocular surface Cl(-) secretion, suggesting the application of CFTR activators as therapy for dry eye. Amiloride-sensitive Na(+) transporters facilitate Na(+) absorption. PD measurements provide a robust and reproducible means of assessing ocular surface ion transporting mechanisms.
SIMULATION GAMING OR LECTURE DISCUSSION FOR AN ECONOMICS SURVEY COURSE: AN EXPERIMENT

ABSTRACT This study investigated the impact of four student characteristics and the instructors on the relative abilities of a simulation‐gaming method and the lecture‐discussion method to increase the economic knowledge and retention of economic knowledge. The study indicated that the simulation‐gaming method was superior for the students with low pre‐course economic knowledge, low Scholastic Aptitude Test scores, and no previous high school economic instruction. The lecture‐discussion method, however, was superior for students with high pre‐course economic knowledge, high Scholastic Aptitude Test scores, and previous high school economic training.
Cervicothoracic junction thrust manipulation in the multimodal management of a patient with temporomandibular disorder

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a common condition that can be difficult to manage in physical therapy. A number of interventions, such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education have typically been used in some combination. However, the evidence regarding thrust manipulation of not only the local but also adjacent segments is sparse. Specifically, the use of cervicothoracic (CT) junction thrust manipulation has not previously been described in the management of individuals with TMD. In this case report, CT junction thrust manipulation, in addition to locally directed manual therapy, exercise, and postural education, was associated with immediate improvements in neck and jaw symptoms and function in a complex patient with TMD. The patient was seen for seven visits over the course of 2 months and demonstrated clinically significant changes in the neck disability index (NDI), the numeric rating of pain scale (NPRS), and the global rating of change (GROC) scale. The purpose of this re...
Pb isotope measurements of sanidine monitor standards: implications for provenance analysis and tephrochronology

Abstract Samples of Fish Canyon and Cobb Mountain sanidine monitor standards, irradiated and fused with 7 W of CO2 laser power for 40 Ar / 39 Ar geochronology analyses, give Pb isotope composition and Pb concentrations that are indistinguishable from unprocessed aliquots of the same monitors. The absence of measurable change in Pb isotope composition indicates the feasibility of measuring the Pb isotope composition of feldspar grains that have been previously analyzed for their 40 Ar / 39 Ar ages. Therefore, it should be possible to fingerprint datable volcanic ash layers for purposes of correlating noncontiguous layers with similar ages. Application of this combined technique to detrital feldspar grains (most detrital grains would not be sanidine, so further tests are necessary) should also improve the sensitivity of provenance analysis.
Maize endopeptidase: genetic control, chemical characterization, and relationship to an endogenous trypsin inhibitor.

A single form of endopeptidase (EP-1) was found to be present at all stages of development and differentiation in all tissues of inbred maize. This endopeptidase occurs as two electrophoretically distinct variants which exist in different inbred maize lines. The gene coding for this endopeptidase has been tentatively located at or near the Y1 locus on chromosome 6. The EP-1 variants are under the control of two codominant alleles (Ep1A and Ep1B) at the Ep1 locus. The two endopeptidase variants are similar with respect to molecular weight, heat stability, Km, and metal ion inhibition, but are distinguishable by distinct isoelectric points as well as by different mobilities on starch gel electrophoresis. All attempts to hybridize the variants for purposes of determining subunit structure have failed. The endopeptidase is not inhibited by endogenous maize bovine trypsin inhibitor. During the development of seedlings, the endopeptidase is most active in immature liquid endosperm and in scutella, while the maize trypsin inhibitor is highest in starchy endosperm of mature kernels.
Influence of supplemental tryptophan and zeranol implantation on performance, carcass composition, serum hormones and nutrient utilization by lambs

Abstract In Expt. 1, treatments were two levels zeranol (0, 12 mg implant) and three levels tryptophan (TRP: 0, 0.5, and 1% DM of diet) in a factorial design. Tryptophan and zeranol interacted (P 0.10) for daily gain, feed efficiency, and serum melatonin concentration. Zeranol increased (P 0.10) for DMI, digestibility, and N balance. Lambs fed TRP had lower (P
Fibrin-mediated lentivirus gene transfer: implications for lentivirus microarrays.

Abstract We employed fibrin hydrogel as a bioactive matrix for lentivirus mediated gene transfer. Fibrin-mediated gene transfer was highly efficient and exhibited strong dependence on fibrinogen concentration. Efficient gene transfer was achieved with fibrinogen concentration between 3.75 and 7.5 mg/ml. Lower fibrinogen concentrations resulted in diffusion of virus out of the gel while higher concentrations led to ineffective fibrin degradation by target cells. Addition of fibrinolytic inhibitors decreased gene transfer in a dose-dependent manner suggesting that fibrin degradation by target cells may be necessary for successful gene delivery. Under these conditions transduction may be limited only to cells interacting with the matrix thereby providing a method for spatially-localized gene delivery. Indeed, when lentivirus-containing fibrin microgels were spotted in an array format gene transfer was confined to virus-containing fibrin spots with minimal cross-contamination between neighboring sites. Collectively, our data suggest that fibrin may provide an effective matrix for spatially-localized gene delivery with potential applications in high-throughput lentiviral microarrays and in regenerative medicine.
Rich Flavor Discrimination in Ice Cream by Theory of Signal Detection

Abstract Twenty-seven ice cream samples varying in fat (10, 12, and 14%), overrun (78, 90, and 102%) and vanilla extract (none, normal, and three times normal) were presented to an observer panel for rich flavor discrimination evaluation. The experimental design was based on the theory of signal detection. The panel could discriminate between the rich flavor intensity. A brief richness-ingredient cost analysis was made. The richest ingredient combination with least cost contained 14% fat, 102% overrun, and normal flavor. The least richest combination with lowest cost had 10% fat, 102% overrun, and no flavor.
Nonocollagenous Proteins of Dentin. Isolation and Partial Characterization of Rat Dentin Proteins and Proteoglycans using a Three-step Preparative Method

The purpose of this study was to develop a method for fractionation of dentin proteins and proteoglycans into pools. The sequential procedure consisted of: (1) addition of 1.0 M CaCl2 to solutions of EDTA extracts of rat dentin in the presence of protease inhibitors to form a CaCl2 precipitate (Fraction I), (2) dialysis of the resultant supernatant against 0.1 M formic acid to form an acid precipitate (Fraction II), and (3) passage of the 0.1 M formic acid supernatant over a Sephadex G-50 column to obtain a high molecular weight, excluded peak (Fraction III) and a lower molecular weight, included peak (Fraction IV). Each of the four fractions was characterized by amino acid analysis, slab gel electrophoresis and ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. Fraction I contained almost exclusively phosphoproteins while Fraction II consisted of several acidic proteins, albumin, proteoglycans and a protein with a relatively low level of organic phosphate. A unique glycoprotein with an apparent Mr = 95,000 was found in Fraction III along with smaller amounts of other proteins, including albumin and a phosphoprotein with a relatively low level of organic phosphate. Fraction IV contained several low molecular weight, gamma-carboxyglutamate-containing proteins similar to those found in bone. The data show that the method selectively fractionates the proteins and proteoglycans of rat dentin. Furthermore the method is rapid and allows preparative steps to be performed in the presence of protease inhibitors. This new procedure should be a useful step in the comprehensive isolation of dentin proteins in experiments designed to study their detailed chemical nature and metabolism.
Phospholipid Content of the Chicken Shell Gland and Its Relationship to Egg Shell Strength

Abstract Egg shell strength declines during the latter part of the laying cycle. Shell gland (uterine) lipids have been postulated to be associated with this decline. A membrane-bound Ca2+-adenosine triphosphate (ATP)ase has been shown to require phospholipids for maximum activity. It is hypothesized that the age-associated decline in shell strength is the result of alterations in shell gland phospholipids. Shell strength, as assessed by shell surface density, of eggs from two commercial strains of hens in their first cycle of lay was monitored during the latter half of the laying cycle and following an induced molt. Significant differences were not detected in abdominal fat weight, oviduct weight, or total lipid concentration of the shell gland of hens that produced premolt strong egg shells (SES) and weak egg shells (WES). The SES hens had higher concentrations of shell gland phosphatidylcholine (PC) and lower concentrations of shell gland phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) than WES hens. The ratio of PC:PE was significantly lower in WES hens in the premolt than in the postmolt phase. An improvement in shell strength after the induced molt was associated with an increase in shell gland PC:PE ratio. These results indicate that the weak egg shells produced towards the end of lay are laid by hens whose shell gland contains less PC and a lower ratio of PC:PE. The differential response after an induced molt supports the hypothesis of a cause and effect relationship. These alterations could affect the function of Ca2+-ATPase and egg shell calcification.
The 'Tyranny of choices' in the ingestion-controlling network.

Background: Currently used antiobesity remedies offer only a modest weight reduction, and have untoward effects that can complicate treatment efforts. Motivated by the needs of the pharmacotherapy of obesity, the study explored the role of neuropeptide Y, leptin, and corticotrophin-releasing hormone. Method: The study used Ingenuity Pathway Analysis which is a tool for automated discovery and visualization of molecular interactions. Results: In ingestion-controlling networks, neuropeptide Y, leptin, and corticotrophin-releasing hormone molecules are commonly combined into the units designated as ‘maximal motifs’. The analysis of this triad allowed suggesting that maximal motifs are not more than a compendium of admission rules and transmission alternatives of their nodes catalogued in the dataset. Nonetheless, these options seem to endow them with the flexibility needed to respond dynamically as a functional unit to changing internal (metabolic) conditions or environmental challenges. Conclusion: Thus far, each peptide represents a separate target for pharmaceutical interventions (as judged by US patents scanned). The study concludes with predictions regarding designs of ‘multitargeted’ antiobesity agents since only by hitting a combination of targets can an appropriate therapeutic effect be achieved.
Concurrent disappearance of N-acylethanolamine glycerophospholipids and phagolysosomes enriched in N-acylethanolamine glycerophospholipids as Dictyostelium discoideum cells aggregate.

As the cellular slime mold, Dictyostelium discoideum, undergoes development, a phospholipid fraction containing 80% N-acylethanolamine glycerophospholipids (NAEGPs) and 20% acylphosphatidylglycerol (APG) disappears during the aggregation stage. In this study, the subcellular distribution of that NAEGP phospholipid fraction and the precise time period of disappearance of the fraction were determined. The content of the NAEGP fraction was determined in aggregating cells at 2-h intervals from the beginning of the developmental phase through 14 h, when the cells were completely aggregated. The NAEGP fraction comprised about 8% of the phospholipids in amoebae just starting the development cycle and about 12% in cells between 2 and 6 h of development; then its level decreased until it could not be detected at 12 and 14 h of development. The mole percentage of the total lipid phosphate in the NAEGP fraction was determined in isolated subcellular organelles. The phagolysosomes were enriched in the NAEGP fraction 1.7–2-fold over the level found in the amoebae and about 8-fold over the level in fractions highly enriched in the plasma membrane, mitochondria or peroxisomes. The content of phagolysosomes was determined by electron microscopy of aggregating cells. The amoebae contained large amounts of phagolysosomes up to 6 h of development, and then they gradually disappeared between 6 and 12 h of development. This combination of quantitative phospholipid analysis, subcellular organelle isolation and electron microscopy has revealed that in D. discoideum amoebae, the phagolysosomes were selectively enriched in the NAEGP fraction and both the NAEGP-enriched phagolysosomes and the NAEGPs disappeared concurrently between 6 and 12 h of development.
The role of postnatal testosterone in the development of sexually dimorphic behaviors in DBA/1Bg mice

The DBA/1 Y chromosome causes an increment in aggression and pubertal testosterone levels. The purpose of the following experiments was to determine whether pubertal testosterone is necessary for the normal development of both aggression and copulation in males. If it is, then the effect of the DBA/1 Y chromosome may be mediated by its influence on pubertal testosterone. Individuals were either castrated at 30 days of age (CAS30) or sham operated (Sham or CAS50). At 50 days of age, the CAS30 individuals were sham operated and replaced with testosterone, while the CAS50 group was castrated and replaced with the same quantity of testosterone. The shams were sham operated at 50 days of age. CAS30 individuals were less aggressive than the CAS50 group, while they were no less aggressive than the sham operated group. Additionally, no groups differed in male copulatory behaviors. The results are discussed in relation to Y chromosomal and developmental mechanisms of sexually dimorphic behaviors.
Classroom Groups: Inclusion of Students With Disabilities

Abstract The inclusion of students with disabilities in the regular classroom group is discussed. The structure of the classroom group is analyzed to determine its receptivity to students with disabilities. Special problems that might be encountered during inclusion and possibilities for improving classroom group skills are presented.
Attraction in the Field What We Need to Acknowledge and Implications for Research and Teaching

Physical or sexual attraction plays an important role in shaping a wide range of relationships and in myriad ways. Our primary interest here is in how attraction shapes the qualitative research exp...
Barriers and facilitators to delivering effective mental health practice strategies for youth and families served by the child welfare system

Abstract While the gap between need for and access to mental health services is well documented among children of color in foster care, little is known about why they are sustained. To illuminate barriers of service delivery, thirty-six caseworkers participated in one of five focus group meetings in a large urban Mid-Atlantic City. Ground Theory Methods revealed that there are barriers and facilitators at the macro, meso, and micro practice orientations. At the macro-level, development of effective practice strategies and proximity to effective services are likely to influence dissemination of effective practices. Secondly, at the meso-level, job support is needed to facilitate awareness, but for case managers to feel supported, they need effective training and opportunities to facilitate interagency collaboration. Finally, at the micro-level, cultural competence largely impacts implementation of effective practices. However, increased awareness around the social ills of stigma and the salience of “insider work” are needed to increase cultural competence. A “downstream” effect in which there are numerous barriers identified at the macro level has a direct negative impact on organizational capacity and readiness to deliver and engage youth and families in mental health services served by the child welfare system. Findings underscore the need for child welfare agencies to build supports at the macro, meso, and micro practice levels to ameliorate mental health service disparities.
Collecting correlated information from a sensor network

A fundamental problem in the study of sensor networks is collecting data to a central server from a set of k distributed sensor nodes. A considerable amount of recent research in this area attempts to reduce the number of bits sent by the nodes by taking advantage of correlations between the data items collected from different nodes. In this paper, we study this problem in the following model: let D be a probability distribution over k binary strings of length n. A sample X is drawn from D and the k strings of X are revealed to the nodes, one string per node. The goal is to inform the server of all k strings of X. Our primary objective is to minimize the total number of bits sent by the nodes, but we also seek to minimize both the bits sent by the server and the number of rounds required. This problem is a natural parallelization of the model introduced in [2], and is also well motivated by recent work on distributed source coding for sensor networks. Our main result is a protocol that allows the server to correctly determine X. In this protocol, the nodes send O(H(D) + k) bits in expectation, where H(D) is the binary entropy of D; this is asymptotically optimal. The server sends O(kn + H(D) log n) bits in expectation, and the number of rounds is O(1 + log[H(D)]) in expectation. We also demonstrate that if the server is allowed to produce an incorrect result with probability up to Δ, then the expected number of bits sent by the server can be reduced to O(k log(nk/Δ) + H(D) log n), without increasing the other measures of performance.
A review of apatites, iron and manganese minerals and their roles as indicators of biological activity in black shales

Abstract Biological contribution to the formation of minerals has become more than a descriptive area in geological thought and research. Mechanisms of specific mineral accumulation and deposition in oceancs, lakes, and even desert environment, are studied using interdisciplinary approaches and applied in the interpretation of earth processes. Phosphorus, iron and manganese, are, and probably were, essential elements in life forms. The common minerals of these elements, apatite, and magnetite, for example, can be found in a variety of sedimentary environments, both ancient and modern, where they could be useful indicator minerals to interpret geologic environments. The crystal morphological, structural and chemical (including isotopic) attributes of these usually fine-grained minerals can be compared with bulk chemical and stratigraphic information to augment our understanding of the mechanisms of formation and diagenesis in sediments such as black shales.
Topology change in string theory

Abstract We study the distance in the space of couplings of two-dimensional quantum field theories, as specified by the Zamolodchikov metric. We show that for world-sheet supersymmetric theories, the Witten index (target space Euler number) cannot be changed while moving a finite distance, and illustrate this for N = 1 and N = 2 minimal series as well as for Calabi-Yau manifolds.
Chiral separation of nipecotic acid amides.

Abstract 1-Decyl-3-(N,N-diethylcarbamoyl)piperidine (1) and α,α′-bis[3-(N-benzyl-N-methylcarbamoyl)piperidinol]- p -xylene (2) represent mono-N-substituted and bis-N-substituted carbamoylpiperidines, or nipecotic acid amides, respectively. Initially, several attempts were made to resolve these compounds using β-cyclodextrin, cellulose carbamate and Pirkle-type columns. However, the interactions of the stereoisomers of the two compounds with these stationary phases did not differ enough to permit satisfactory separations. Baseline resolution was achieved using an α 1 -acid glycoprotein (AGP) chiral column. The mobile phase was phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). Tetrabutylammonium (TBA) was used as the cationic modifier and ethanol as the unchanged modifier. Circular dichroism was used to identify the enantiomers. Compound 1 was resolved into positive and negative enantiomers and 2 into positive and negative enantiomers and a meso diastereomer. The influence of pH, buffer ionic strength, cationic and unchanged modifier concentrations on retention, chiral selectivity and resolution were evaluated. Based on the results, it is suggested that both ionic and hydrophobic interactions may be responsible for retention and resolution.
Identification of Nucleotide-Level Changes Impacting Gene Content and Genome Evolution in Orthopoxviruses

Poxviruses are composed of large double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genomes coding for several hundred genes whose variation has supported virus adaptation to a wide variety of hosts over their long evolutionary history. Comparative genomics has suggested that the Orthopoxvirus genus in particular has undergone reductive evolution, with the most recent common ancestor likely possessing a gene complement consisting of all genes present in any existing modern-day orthopoxvirus species, similar to the current Cowpox virus species. As orthopoxviruses adapt to new environments, the selection pressure on individual genes may be altered, driving sequence divergence and possible loss of function. This is evidenced by accumulation of mutations and loss of protein-coding open reading frames (ORFs) that progress from individual missense mutations to gene truncation through the introduction of early stop mutations (ESMs), gene fragmentation, and in some cases, a total loss of the ORF. In this study, we have constructed a whole-genome alignment for representative isolates from each Orthopoxvirus species and used it to identify the nucleotide-level changes that have led to gene content variation. By identifying the changes that have led to ESMs, we were able to determine that short indels were the major cause of gene truncations and that the genome length is inversely proportional to the number of ESMs present. We also identified the number and types of protein functional motifs still present in truncated genes to assess their functional significance. IMPORTANCE This work contributes to our understanding of reductive evolution in poxviruses by identifying genomic remnants such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and indels left behind by evolutionary processes. Our comprehensive analysis of the genomic changes leading to gene truncation and fragmentation was able to detect some of the remnants of these evolutionary processes still present in orthopoxvirus genomes and suggests that these viruses are under continual adaptation due to changes in their environment. These results further our understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms that drive virus variation, allowing orthopoxviruses to adapt to particular environmental niches. Understanding the evolutionary history of these virus pathogens may help predict their future evolutionary potential.
Unusually stable chromium(V) perfluoropinacolate complexes

Abstract Ligand substitution of chromyl chloride with the chelating dilithium perfluoropinacolate Li2(PFP) does not afford the desired chromyl perfluoropinacolate O2Cr(PFP) as previously reported. Instead a facile reductive di-substitution of O2CrCl2 occurs to yield bis(perfluoropinacolato)oxochromate(V), OCr (PFP)2−, and its structure is established as the pyridinium-pyridine salt II by X-ray crystallography. The selective hydrolysis of II affords an unusual binuclear bis-μ-oxochromate(V) salt V, the X-ray crystal structure of which consists of unique chains of binuclear chromium(V) dianions [OCr(PFP)-μ-O]22− that are linked by aquo-lithium ion bridges. The relationship of these unusually stable oxochromate(V) salts to the previously reported simple alkali salts of OCr(PFP)2− and potassium bis(2-hydroxy-2-methyl- butyrato)oxochromate(V) is discussed.
Effect of hypophysectomy on some enzymes involved in lipid metabolism of the domestic chicken (gallus domesticus)

1. Lipogenesis from glucose-U-14C and profiles of enzymes involved in lipogenesis indicate that the obesity following hypophysectomy in the domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus) is not due to increased lipogenesis. 2. Following hypophysectomy citrate cleavage enzyme remains unaffected, while NADP-linked malic enzyme is drastically depressed. Glycerokinase showed a significant (P<0·05) increase in hypophysectomized birds. 3. Lipoprotein lipase in the adipose tissue of hypophysectomized cockerels remains unaffected up to 63 days after surgery and then falls gradually. 4. There is an increased hepatic concentration of glycerol in hypophysectomized birds while the concentration of α-glycerophosphate is lowered.
Our evolving conceptual model of the coastal eutrophication problem

A primary focus of coastal science during the past 3 decades has been the question: How does anthropogenic nutrient enrichment cause change in the structure or function of nearshore coastal ecosystems? This theme of environmental science is recent, so our conceptual model of the coastal eutrophication problem continues to change rapidly. In this review, I suggest that the early (Phase I) con- ceptual model was strongly influenced by limnologists, who began intense study of lake eutrophication by the 1960s. The Phase I model emphasized changing nutrient input as a signal, and responses to that signal as increased phytoplankton biomass and primary production, decomposition of phytoplankton- derived organic matter, and enhanced depletion of oxygen from bottom waters. Coastal research in recent decades has identified key differences in the responses of lakes and coastal-estuarine ecosystems to nutrient enrichment. The contemporary (Phase II) conceptual model reflects those differences and includes explicit recognition of (1) system-specific attributes that act as a filter to modulate the responses to enrichment (leading to large differences among estuarine-coastal systems in their sensitivity to nu- trient enrichment); and (2) a complex suite of direct and indirect responses including linked changes in: water transparency, distribution of vascular plants and biomass of macroalgae, sediment biogeochem- istry and nutrient cycling, nutrient ratios and their regulation of phytoplankton community composition, frequency of toxic/harmful algal blooms, habitat quality for metazoans, reproduction/growth/survival of pelagic and benthic invertebrates, and subtle changes such as shifts in the seasonality of ecosystem functions. Each aspect of the Phase II model is illustrated here with examples from coastal ecosystems around the world. In the last section of this review I present one vision of the next (Phase III) stage in the evolution of our conceptual model, organized around 5 questions that will guide coastal science in the early 21st century: (1) How do system-specific attributes constrain or amplify the responses of coastal ecosystems to nutrient enrichment? (2) How does nutrient enrichment interact with other stressors (toxic contaminants, fishing harvest, aquaculture, nonindigenous species, habitat loss, climate change, hydro- logic manipulations) to change coastal ecosystems? (3) How are responses to multiple stressors linked? (4) How does human-induced change in the coastal zone impact the Earth system as habitat for humanity and other species? (5) How can a deeper scientific understanding of the coastal eutrophication problem be applied to develop tools for building strategies at ecosystem restoration or rehabilitation?
The cryptoendolithic microbial environment in the Antarctic cold desert: Temperature variations in nature

In the Antarctic cold desert, cryptoendolithic microorganisms live under the surface of porous sandstone rocks. During the austral summer, the environment of the near-surface rock layers colonized by organisms is characterized by two kinds of temperature oscillations, both occurring across the freezing point. Low-frequency (diurnal) and large-amplitude (up to about 20 degrees C) oscillations on the sunlit surface of rocks result in a daily freeze-thaw cycle. This is a result of the diurnal changes in the sun altitude and angle with respect to the rock surface. The biological effect of this oscillation is the regulation of the onset and cessation of metabolic activity. The high-frequency (few minutes) oscillations occur only under certain weather conditions (sunny days with light winds) and are superimposed on the low-frequency oscillations. They are caused by the cooling effect of wind gusts on rock surfaces that are much warmer than ambient air temperatures. High-frequency oscillations result in a rapid freeze-thaw cycle on the surface, which, however, does not reach the microbial zone. These high-frequency freeze-thaw oscillations are probably the cause of the abiotic nature of the rock surface. Both oscillations seem to have an effect on rock weathering.
Pathophysiology, Management and Outcome of Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn: a Clinical Review

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN) results from the failure of relaxation of the pulmonary vasculature at birth, leading to shunting of non-oxygenated blood from the pulmonary to the systemic circulation. More often, full term and near-term infants are affected, however it is not uncommon to see PPHN in preterm infants who have respiratory distress syndrome. In some infants pulmonary vascular remodeling is present at birth, pointing toward the prenatal onset of the disease process. Regardless of the etiology, PPHN should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible to avoid hypoxia related short term and long-term morbidities. The mainstay therapy is the treatment of the underlying condition along with several promising therapeutic modalities such as oxygen supplementation, mechanical ventilation, nitric oxide, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, prostaglandins analogs, endothelin receptor antagonists, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The optimal approach to the management of PPHN remains controversial. After discharge from the NICU, infants with PPHN warrant long-term follow up since they are at risk for neurodevelopmental disabilities and chronic health conditions.
Translocation in rhizomorphs ofArmillaria mellea

Abstract The uptake and transport of exogenously applied [U-14C]glucose and32PO4 by the root-like structures termed rhizomorphs of the fungusArmillaria mellea were studied. Rhizomorphs were grown in petri dishes from a defined medium, across and air space, into either defined medium or water agar. Uptake of label and transport of absorbed label from bases to tips of rhizomorphs occurred in cultures growing aerobically. Label was present in all segments sampled along the lengths of such rhizomorphs with the concentration of label generally decreasing with increasing distance from the base to which isotope has been applied. The air space eliminated background due to diffusion of isotope directly through agar. Control experiments revealed that translocated compounds do not diffuse on the surface of rhizomorphs or their cells, but instead, are carried within the cells of the rhizomorphs. Both absorption and transport of label were eliminated by glutaraldehyde fixation. Rhizomorphs living under anaerobic conditions absorbed, but did not transport, label. This suggests a mechanism of transport that is dependent upon aerobic respiration. Essentially no transport of label was observed in the reverse direction from tip to base of rhizomorphs under the experimental conditions used.
Cost of pelvic organ prolapse surgery in the United States

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To estimate the annual direct cost to society of pelvic organ prolapse operations in the United States. METHODS: We multiplied the number of pelvic organ prolapse operations identified in the 1997 National Hospital Discharge Survey by national average Medicare reimbursement for physician services and hospitalizations. Although this reimbursement does not estimate the actual cost, it is a proxy for cost, which estimates what society pays for the procedures. RESULTS: In 1997, direct costs of pelvic organ prolapse surgery were $1012 million (95% confidence interval [CI] $775, 1251 million), including $494 million (49%) for vaginal hysterectomy, $279 million (28%) for cystocele and rectocele repair, and $135 million (13%) for abdominal hysterectomy. Physician services accounted for 29% ($298 million) of total costs, and hospitalization accounted for 71% ($714 million). Twenty-one percent of pelvic organ prolapse operations included urinary incontinence procedures ($218 million). If all operations were reimbursed by non-Medicare sources, the annual estimated cost would increase by 52% to $1543 million. CONCLUSION: The annual direct costs of operations for pelvic organ prolapse are substantial.
Effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on cell growth and the secretion of the estrogen-induced 34-, 52- and 160-kDa proteins in human breast cancer cells.

Abstract The effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on the growth of estrogen-responsive MCF-7 human breast cancer cells in the presence of 17β-estradiol was determined. After treatment with 17β-estradiol (1 nM), TCDD (10 nM) and 17β-estradiol (1 nM) plus TCDD (10 nM) the cells were monitored daily for cell growth and DNA content for 7 days. The results showed that TCDD inhibited cell proliferation and DNA content of untreated cells and inhibited the 17β-estradiol-stimulated cell proliferation and increase in cellular DNA content. In contrast, TCDD did not effect the growth of estrogen non-responsive MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. TCDD (0.1–10 nm) also caused a concentration-dependent decrease in the 17β-estradiol-induced proliferation in MCF-7 cells. The effects of TCDD on the 17β-estradiol-induced secretion of the 52-kDa protein (i.e. procathepsin D), the 34-kDa (cathepsin D) and 160-kDa proteins were also determined in the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines. The levels of the proteins were determined by autoradiographic analysis of the incorporation of [ 35 S]methionine into the secreted proteins which were separated by denaturing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Treatment of MCF-7 cells with 17β-estradiol (1 nM), TCDD (10 and 100 nM) and 17β-estradiol (1 nM) plus TCDD (10 nM) resulted in levels of the 52-kDa protein which were 497, 63.6, 98.1 and 66.3%, respectively, of the corresponding levels observed in control (untreated) cells. Using the same concentrations, the levels of the 34-kDa protein secreted into the media were 372, 42.3, 64.0 and 43.8% of control values, respectively, and the corresponding levels of the 160-kDa protein were 381, 52.9, 71.2 and 76.6% of the control values, respectively. In contrast, treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with 17β-estradiol (1 nM), TCDD (10 and 100 nM) and 17β-estradiol (1 nM) plus TCDD (10 nM) resulted in a 31–39% reduction in the secretion of the 52-kDa protein however these effects were not statistically different from the control values. In addition, the treatments did not cause any significant effects on the secretion of the 34- and 160-kDa proteins by MDA-MB-231 cells. These results clearly confirm and extend the range of antiestrogenic effects caused by TCDD in estrogen-responsive MCF-7 cells and indicate that the MDA-MB-231 cells are not responsive to the antiestrogenic effects of TCDD.
ADP-ribosyl cyclase: an enzyme that cyclizes NAD+ into a calcium-mobilizing metabolite

Cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) is a metabolite of NAD+ that is as active as inositol trisphosphate (IP3) in mobilizing intracellular Ca2+ in sea urchin eggs. The activity of the enzyme responsible for synthesizing cADPR is found not only in sea urchin eggs but also in various mammalian tissue extracts, suggesting that cADPR may be a general messenger for Ca2+ mobilization in cells. An aqueous soluble enzyme, thought to be an NADase, has been purified recently from the ovotestis of Aplysia californica (Hellmich and Strumwasser, 1991). This paper shows that the Aplysia enzyme catalyzes the conversion of NAD+ to cADPR and nicotinamide. The Aplysia enzyme was purified by fractionating the soluble extract of Aplysia ovotestis on a Spectra/gel CM column. The purified enzyme appeared as a single band of approximately 29,000 Da on SDS-PAGE but could be further separated into multiple peaks by high-resolution, cation-exchange chromatography. All of the protein peaks had enzymatic activity, indicating that the enzyme had multiple forms differing by charge. Analysis of the reaction products of the enzyme by anion-exchange high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) indicated no ADP-ribose was produced; instead, each mole of NAD+ was converted to equimolar of cADPR and nicotinamide. The identification of the product as cADPR was further substantiated by proton NMR and also by its Ca(2+)-mobilizing activity. Addition of the product to sea urchin egg homogenates induced Ca2+ release and desensitized the homogenate to authentic cADPR but not to IP3. Microinjection of the product into sea urchin eggs elicited Ca2+ transients as well as the cortical exocytosis reaction. Therefore, by the criteria of HPLC, NMR, and calcium-mobilizing activity, the product was identical to cADPR. To distinguish the Aplysia enzyme from the conventional NADases that produce ADP-ribose, we propose to name it ADP-ribosyl cyclase.
Illusory-Contour Formation Affected by Luminance Contrast Polarity

We report a new type of illusory contour (Illusory-O) whose formation is contingent upon the contrast polarity of its juxtaposed inducing elements being similar, i.e. both elements must either be positive or negative in contrast sign. To test the hypothesis that this contingency is primarily dictated by factors that determine amodal surface completion (occlusion) between the inducing elements we conducted a series of experiments employing known spatial properties of the amodal completion mechanism, to show that spatial conditions unfavorable to occlusion lead to a concurrent weakening of the Illusory-O formation. For instance, we found that when the juxtaposed inducing elements (solid rectangles) were spatially misaligned, or when their spatial separation increased, our observers rated the perception of the Illusory-O as reduced. We also showed that, in addition to using solid-form inducing elements, the Illusory-O can be induced by line terminals, as long as these lines respect the requirements of the amodal completion mechanism such as similar contrast polarity and spatial alignment. Then we demonstrated that the role of the amodal completion mechanism is not limited to our particular arrangement of inducing elements by showing that the formation of the illusory Necker cube also relies on similar contrast polarity. Finally, to explain why some illusory contours like the Illusory-O are dependent on contrast polarity while others (e.g. Kanizsa square) are not, we propose that the key rests upon the visual system's presumption of occlusion. That is, in forming the illusory contour, if the visual system infers that it is a byproduct of the inducing elements being occluded, then having inducing elements of similar contrast polarity becomes a prerequisite. This assumption can be traced to the occurrence in the real world where partially occluded objects usually have visible parts (on both ends) with similar contrast polarity. Along this line of thinking, we suggest a plausible neural circuitry that may be implemented to form both contrast polarity sensitive and insensitive types of illusory contours.
Determinants of the revival of dissection of the human body in the Middle Ages

The author reviews the causes of the rebirth of human dissection in the Middle Ages after a hiatus of 1500 years, that is, after the practice was abandoned in the time following Herophilus of Alexandria in the third century BC. It is concluded that three main factors determined the rebirth: the removal of obstacles (i.e., the devaluation of the body), the stimulus to proceed (i.e., the resuming of the slow progress of medicine toward the scientific mode), and the different value attributed to cadavers of different people, that is, the correspondence between life deeds and the importance of the cadaver (which made the corpses of executed criminals available and pedagogical dissection possible).
A novel nanoparticle-based disposable electrochemical immunosensor for diagnosis of exposure to toxic organophosphorus agents

A novel disposable electrochemical immunosensor for highly selective and sensitive detection of organophosphorylated butyrylcholinesterase (OP-BChE), a specific biomarker for exposure to toxic organophosphorus agents, is presented. In this new approach, zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2) were employed to selectively capture the OP moiety of OP-BChE adducts, followed by quantum dot (QD)-tagged anti-BChE antibodies for amplified quantification. The captured CdSe-QD tags can be sensitively detected by stripping voltammetry using an in situ bismuth-plating method. The OP agent, diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP), was selected to prepare OP-BChE adducts in various matrices. The formation of OP-BChE adducts in plasma sample was confirmed using mass spectroscopy. The developed electrochemical immunosensor demonstrates a highly linear voltammetric response over the range of 0.1 to 30 nM OP-BChE, with a detection limit of 0.03 nM (based on signal/noise = 3), coupled with a good reproducibility (relative standard deviation 4.5%). Moreover, the immunosensor has been validated with biomonitoring of OP-BChE adducts in the plasma samples. This novel nanoparticle-based electrochemical immunosensor thus provides an alternative way for designing a sensitive and cost-effective sensing platform for on-site screening/evaluating exposure to a variety of OP agents.