cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mineral homeostasis in very premature infants: serial evaluation of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, serum minerals, and bone mineralization.

This study was designed to evaluate the role of vitamin D sufficiency, as reflected in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) concentrations, on serum minerals and bone mineralization in very premature infants. Seventy-two infants (mean±SD gestation 30.1±2.5 weeks, mean±SD birth weight 1178±278 gm) were observed serially for the first 3 months of life. Mean serum calcium and phosphorus values, but not magnesium, remained low prior to 12 weeks. The percentage of infants with moderate to severe hypomineralization was 75% at 3 weeks, 55% at 6 weeks, 54% at 9 weeks, and 15% at twelve weeks. Low serum calcium and phosphorus values, high alkaline phosphatase activity, and moderate-severe hypomineralization were more frequent in infants weighing
Corrosion of ferritic-martensitic steel HT9 in supercritical water

Abstract The oxidation of a 12% Cr ferritic–martensitic steel, HT9 has been examined after exposure to supercritical water (SCW) at 500 °C with two different dissolved oxygen contents, 25 wppb and 2 wppm, for exposure periods of up to 505 h. Samples exposed to the higher oxygen content SCW showed Cr-rich blades and generally a much finer oxide grain structure than samples exposed to the lower oxygen content SCW which have a porous surface oxide structure. A double-layer oxide structure developed on all samples exposed in 25 wppb oxygen content SCW, consisting specifically of an Fe-rich outer magnetite layer and a Cr-rich inner oxide layer composed of spinel and ferrite. An outer hematite layer was also found for samples exposed to 2 wppm oxygen content SCW. Samples whose surface was pre-implanted with oxygen and then exposed to SCW with 25 wppb oxygen content for 505 h showed a slightly lower weight gain compared to the untreated samples. This difference in weight gain appears to be associated with a preferred orientation in the outer oxide layer.
effects of CRL 41034 on the adrenergic neuroeffector interaction in the canine saphenous vein

Experiments were designed to determine the effect of CRL 41034, a buflomedil analogue, on the adrenergic responsiveness of canine veins. Rings of saphenous vein (without endothelium) were suspended for isometric tension recording in modified Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate solution at 37 degrees C. CRL 41034 produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of the contractions evoked by the alpha adrenergic agonists norepinephrine, phenylephrine and UK 14304 which was insensitive to the blockade of neuronal uptake by cocaine. CRL 41034 was more potent in inhibiting the concentration-dependent contractions evoked by UK 14304 than those by phenylephrine and the antagonism it caused against the response to UK 14304 fulfilled the criteria for competitivity. CRL 41034, at 10(-5) M significantly depressed, and at 10(-4) M abolished the contractions induced by electrical stimulation of the adrenergic nerves and those evoked by the indirect sympathomimetic amine tyramine. Strips of canine saphenous vein were superfused after incubation with [3H] norepinephrine. During sympathetic nerve activation, CRL 41304 increased the stimulation-evoked overflow of [3H] norepinephrine and 3-methoxy-4-dihydroxyphenylglycol; in the presence of rauwolscine the compound only increased the stimulation-evoked overflow of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol. These experiments suggest that the major vascular effects of CRL 41034 in canine veins are blockade of alpha 2-adrenoceptors on vascular smooth muscle, and inhibition of prejunctional alpha 2-adrenoceptors on adrenergic nerve endings.
Evolution of ply cracks in multidirectional composite laminates

Abstract This paper treats evolution of ply cracks in multidirectional composite laminates subjected to a quasi-static tensile load in the longitudinal direction. Starting with pre-existing ply cracks in off-axis plies, the formation of additional cracks is analyzed by an energy-based approach. A critical laminate energy parameter associated with formation of these cracks is defined and is evaluated using experimental data for a reference cross-ply laminate. The modeling approach requires crack surface displacements, which are calculated by a three-dimensional finite element (3-D FE) analysis performed on a suitable representative volume of the given cracked laminate. The model predictions agree well with experimental data for [ 0 / ± θ 4 / 0 1 / 2 ] s and [ 0 / 90 / ∓ 45 ] s laminates. A parametric study is conducted to evaluate effects of ply thickness and ply stacking sequence on damage evolution in [ 0 m / 90 n / ∓ θ p ] s laminates.
Indium 111-labeled platelet deposition in woven and knitted Dacron bifurcated aortic grafts with the same patient as a clinical model

A study was designed to compare platelet deposition between knitted and woven Dacron grafts in the same patient. Twenty patients received aortoiliac or aortofemoral bifurcated Dacron grafts, each composed of one woven and one double-velour knitted limb. External nuclear graft imaging was carried out after injection of autologous platelets labeled with indium 111. The patients were studied postoperatively in time periods ranging from 6 days to 42 months. Platelet accumulation was almost identical in knitted and woven limbs in all patients. This study appears to indicate that there is no difference in thrombogenicity between knitted and woven bifurcated Dacron grafts in the aortoiliac or aortofemoral positions measured by platelet accumulation.
Mechanics of DNA Flexibility Visualized by Selective 2′-Amine Acylation at Nucleotide Bulges

Abstract We used selective acylation of 2′-amine-substituted nucleotides to visualize local backbone conformations that occur preferentially at bulged sites in DNA duplexes. 2′-Amine acylation reports local nucleotide flexibility because unconstrained 2′-amino nucleotides more readily reach a reactive conformation in which the amide-forming transition state is stabilized by interactions between the amine nucleophile and the adjacent 3′-phosphodiester group. Bulged 2′-amine-substituted cytidine nucleotides react ∼20-fold more rapidly than nucleotides constrained by base-pairing at 35 °C. In contrast, base-paired 2′-amine-substituted nucleotides flanked by a 5′ or 3′ bulge react two- or six-fold more rapidly, respectively, than the perfectly paired duplex. The relative lack of 2′-amine reactivity for nucleotides adjacent to a DNA bulge emphasizes, first, that structural perturbations do not extend significantly into the flanking duplex structure. Second, the exquisite sensitivity towards very local perturbations in nucleic acid structure suggests that 2′-amine acylation can be used to chemically interrogate deletion mutations in DNA. Finally, these data support the mechanical interpretation that the reactive ribose conformation for 2′-amine acylation requires that the base lies out of the helix and in the major groove, a mechanistic insight useful for designing 2′-amine-based sensors.
The hippocampus as a common target of neurotoxic agents

The hippocampus (HPC) is in a strategic position to process information derived from the polymodal association areas of the neocortex and to redistribute it to cortical and subcortical regions involved in the modulation of complex behavioral processes. Several converging lines of evidence indicate that the HPC and its cholinergic input are an important neurobiological substrate for learning and memory processes. Destruction of the HPC proper, its afferent projections, and its cholinergic innervation, produces a persistent impairment in cognitive function. Since alterations in learning and memory are a common consequence of toxicant exposure it is possible that the HPC is an important target site for neurotoxicity. In fact, the HPC has been shown to be preferentially susceptible to a wide variety of toxic insults and disease states. For example, the HPC is damaged by a number of environmental toxicants (heavy metals and their alkyl derivatives), metabolic perturbations, neuroactive viruses, cerebrovascular insufficiency, and neurodegenerative diseases. The susceptibility of this structure to a broad spectrum of insults and its involvement in higher order cognitive processes makes it an important focal point for studies of behavioral and neurological toxicity. Neurobiological characteristics of the HPC that might make this structure uniquely susceptible to toxic insult are discussed.
Survival and incidence of appropriate shocks in implantable cardioverter defibrillator recipients who have no detectable structural heart disease

Prognosis of patients with episodes of hypotensive ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) in the absence of structural heart disease is poorly defined. To solve this problem, this study analyzed a subgroup of 25 such patients chosen from 468 consecutive patients who had an initial implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) inserted between May 1984 and May 1990 in 9 medical centers and were followed up for at least 1 year. The patient group consisted of 17 men and 8 women, aged 8 to 75 years. Cardiac arrest occurred in 20 patients, 3 patients had recurrent VT, and 2 patients had both. Left ventricular ejection fraction ranged from 50% to 70%. During electrophysiologic study, a specific response was seen in 13 patients, defined as monomorphic VT (5 patients), or VF in those who had a history of VF (8 patients). In 8 patients, only a nonspecific response was seen. No arrhythmia could be induced in 4 patients. Of the 13 patients with a specific response, antiarrhythmic drug was tested in 9; in 3 of them the arrhythmia was suppressed. Within the first year, 6 of the 25 patients (24%) received appropriate shock. In the remaining 436 patients who had organic heart disease, 155 (36%) received appropriate ICD shock (p = NS). Therefore, ICD implantation appears to be warranted in patients with a history of life-threatening arrhythmias, not only in the presence but also in the absence of demonstrable structural heart disease.
Immunoelectron microscopy of type X collagen: supramolecular forms within embryonic chick cartilage.

Abstract To determine the supramolecular forms in which avian type X collagen molecules assemble within the matrix of hypertrophic cartilage, we performed immunoelectron microscopy with colloidal gold-labeled monoclonal antibodies. In addition double-labeled analyses were performed for the molecule and type II collagen, employing two monoclonal antibodies attached to different size gold particles. Both in situ limb cartilages and the extracellular matrix of chondrocyte cultures were examined. We observed in both systems that type X collagen is present in two forms. One is as fine filaments (
Instability in a delay-PDE model of earthquake occurrence

Ductile deformation prior to brittle fracture in rocks causes fracture to take place with a time delay after the critical stress for fracture is reached, in the presence of an increasing load stress. We discuss the stability of a stochastic model of interactive earthquake occurrence under the influence of time delays resulting from the ductile process. A threshold for oscillatory behavior is found for large enough coupling and discrete time delays. The system is stable if the time delays are spread over a broad time interval, even for large coupling.
Stress and coping in the elderly

Abstract Changing demographics indicate a significant increase in the number of surviving elderly, a decrease in the number of children in each family, and an increase in the number of surviving generations. Four guidelines are offered for minimizing the stress and maximizing the coping strategies of the elderly and their families: a) aging must be viewed as a life-span developmental experience, b) aging is a biopsychosocial phenomenon, c) supportive others can occupy critical positive or negative roles in the adaptation process, and d) the elderly and their families must develop proactive, anticipatory strategies for coping with the exigencies of age. These guidelines are offered to help the elderly face the challenge of aging successfully.
Mapping of disease-associated variants in admixed populations.

Recent developments in high-throughput genotyping and whole-genome sequencing will enhance the identification of disease loci in admixed populations. We discuss how a more refined estimation of ancestry benefits both admixture mapping and association mapping, making disease loci identification in admixed populations more powerful. High-throughput genotyping and sequencing will enable refined estimation of ancestry, thus enhancing disease loci identification in admixed populations
Progestins in the Hippocampus of Female Rats Have Antiseizure Effects in a Pentylenetetrazole Seizure Model

Summary: Purpose: Progestins can have profound effects on seizure processes. However, the effects and mechanisms of progestins to modulate seizures have not been systematically investigated. The present studies were designed to characterize the effects of progestins to modulate pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures in female rats. Methods: In Experiment 1, ictal activity and plasma and hippocampal progesterone (P) and 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP) levels of proestrous rats were compared with those of diestrous and ovariectomized (ovx) rats. Experiments 2 and 3 examined effects of ovx and replacement with vehicle, P, or 3α,5α-THP, systemically (Experiment 2) or to the hippocampus (Experiment 3) on seizures and plasma and hippocampal P and 3α,5α-THP concentrations. Results: Proestrous rats had reduced ictal activity and increased levels of P and 3α,5α-THP in plasma and hippocampus compared with diestrous or ovx rats (Experiment 1). Rats administered systemic P or 3α,5α-THP had significantly reduced ictal activity and increased plasma and hippocampal P and 3α,5α-THP levels compared with vehicle-administered rats (Experiment 2). Administration of P or 3α,5α-THP to the hippocampus of ovx rats significantly reduced seizure activity and increased hippocampal, but not plasma, levels of P and 3α,5α-THP compared with vehicle administration (Experiment 3). Conclusions: Together, these data suggest that P can have antiseizure effects, and these effects may be due in part to actions of its metabolite, 3α,5α-THP, in the hippocampus.
Exploring the amount and type of writing instruction during language arts instruction in kindergarten classrooms

The objective of this exploratory investigation was to examine the nature of writing instruction in kindergarten classrooms and to describe student writing outcomes at the end of the school year. Participants for this study included 21 teachers and 238 kindergarten children from nine schools. Classroom teachers were videotaped once each in the fall and winter during the 90 min instructional block for reading and language arts to examine time allocation and the types of writing instructional practices taking place in the kindergarten classrooms. Classroom observation of writing was divided into student-practice variables (activities in which students were observed practicing writing or writing independently) and teacher-instruction variables (activities in which the teacher was observed providing direct writing instruction). In addition, participants completed handwriting fluency, spelling, and writing tasks. Large variability was observed in the amount of writing instruction occurring in the classroom, the amount of time kindergarten teachers spent on writing and in the amount of time students spent writing. Marked variability was also observed in classroom practices both within and across schools and this fact was reflected in the large variability noted in kindergartners’ writing performance.
Harrison chairs annual meetings

Fostering the development of interdisciplinary ideas at AGU meetings is the primary goal of AGU's new Meetings Chairman, Christopher G. A. Harrison. “The strength of AGU is the broadness of disciplines represented [within it],” Harrison explained. Harrison is a professor of geophysics at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at the University of Miami. The upcoming 1986 Spring Meeting is the first for which Harrison is serving as chairman, and his term will end after the 1988 Fall Meeting. He succeeds H. Frank Eden, who had been Meetings Chairman since late 1982.
‘Respect for Law and Sausages’: How Parliament Made Section 31 of the Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 on the Sale of Employment Rights

The Parliamentary debates on the clause which became section 31 of the Growth and Enterprise Act 2013 (allowing employees to agree to sign away employment rights for shares in the employing company) show that scrutiny by the House of Commons is very poor, and that scrutiny by the House of Lords is intense and very well-informed. If the Government loses the argument on a Bill in the House of Lords, it will lose the vote. However, during Parliamentary ping-pong (the back-and-forth process of amendment of a Bill between the two Houses) the Commons, and the Government, will normally get their way, however weak the policy proposal, provided that concessions on detail are made, unless the issue is regarded by the Lords as one of fundamental principle.
Identification of interacting regions within the coiled coil of the Escherichia coli structural maintenance of chromosomes protein MukB.

Abstract MukB, a divergent structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) protein, is important for chromosome segregation and condensation in Escherichia coli and other γ-proteobacteria. MukB and canonical SMC proteins share a common five-domain structure in which globular N- and C-terminal regions combine to form an ABC-like ATPase domain. This ATPase domain is connected to a central, globular dimerization domain, commonly called the “hinge” domain, by a long antiparallel coiled coil. Although the ATPase and hinge domains of SMC proteins have been the subject of extensive investigation, little is known about the coiled coil, in spite of its clear importance for SMC function. This limited knowledge is primarily due to a lack of structural information. We report here the first experimental constraints on the relative alignment of the N- and C-terminal halves of the MukB coiled coil, obtained by a combination of limited proteolysis and site-directed cross-linking approaches. Using these experimental constraints, phylogenetic data, and coiled-coil prediction algorithms, we propose a pairing scheme for the discontinuous segments in the coiled coil. This structural model will not only facilitate the study of the physiological role of this unusually long and flexible antiparallel coiled coil but also help to delineate the boundaries between MukB domains.
Is Federalism a Political Safety Valve? Evidence from Congressional Decision Making, 1960–2005

American federalism is often described as a system that contains "political safety valves," or institutional mechanisms that ensure that major policy reforms can be created, even during periods of intense political conflict. By granting discretion to the states, for example, scholars claim that Congress can ensure that diverse constituencies receive their preferred policies. In this article, we examine Congress's pattern of delegating discretion to sub-national institutions in the postwar period, systematically assessing how the political conditions under which a broad sample of landmark legislation passed are related to the delegation of administrative authority to the states. Contrary to the "safety valve" image of federalism, we find very little evidence to suggest that Congress grants more discretion to sub-national governments under periods of intense political conflict.
Three-Dimensional Geometric Nonlinear Analysis of Composite Cable-Stayed Bridges Using a Refined Double-Beam Model

In this paper, a refined double-beam finite-element model is constructed for composite cable-stayed bridges. Using this refined model, the authors aimed at performing more accurate three-dimensional (3D) analyses of cable-stayed bridges by considering all the geometric nonlinearities, including large 3D rotation issues, using catenary cable elements for cables, and taking into account member eccentricities between cable anchor points with the deck and member neutral axes. To consider member eccentricities and avoid using rigid links to connect the eccentricities, a validated two-step procedure is developed to transfer member forces and stiffness from the fluctuating neutral axis lines to a straight reference line. Through a numerical example, the effect of member eccentricity is discussed, and it is clearly shown that member eccentricity has a larger influence on displacements and bending moments than on modal responses. Through a detailed comparison example with previous research and existing software, the refined model presented in this paper demonstrates higher accuracy.
Coordinate activation of intracellular signaling pathways by insulin-like growth factor-1 and platelet-derived growth factor in rat hepatic stellate cells.

Proliferation of activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) is an important event in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has been shown to be mitogenic for HSC, but the intracellular signaling pathways involved have not been fully characterized. Thus, the aims of the current study were to examine the roles of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (P13-K) and p70-S6 kinase (p70-S6-K) signaling pathways in IGF-1- and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced mitogenic signaling of HSC and to examine the potential crosstalk between these pathways. Both IGF-1 and PDGF increased ERK, P13-K and p70-S6-K activity. When evaluating potential crosstalk between these signaling pathways, we observed that P13-K is required for p70-S6-K activation by IGF-1 and PDGF, and is partially responsible for PDGF-induced ERK activation. PDGF and IGF-1 also increased the levels of cyclin D1 and phospho-glycogen synthase kinase-30. Coordinate activation of ERK, P13-K and p70-S6-K is important for perpetuating the activated state of HSC during fibrogenesis.
Recreational physical activity, leisure sitting time and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoid neoplasms in the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study II Cohort.

Results of studies that examined the relationship between physical activity and non-Hodgkin lymphoid neoplasms (NHL) are inconsistent, and only one study to date examined time spent sitting in relation to NHL. We examined recreational physical activity and leisure-time sitting in relation to risk of NHL in the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort. Between 1992 and 2007, 2,002 incident cases were identified among 146,850 participants who were cancer-free at enrollment. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) while adjusting for potential confounders. Women who sat for at least 6 hr/day were at 28% higher risk of NHL compared to women who sat for fewer than 3 hr/day. In analyses of specific subtypes, sitting time was associated with risk of multiple myeloma only (6+ vs. 3 hr/day sitting: HR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.45–3.97). Women who engaged in any recreational physical activity had a nonsignificant 20%–30% lower risk of NHL (p-trend = 0.05) compared to women who reported no recreational physical activity. Neither leisure-time sitting nor recreational physical activity was associated with risk of NHL or major NHL subtype in men. There was no evidence of statistical interaction between physical activity and sitting time, or between body mass index and physical activity or sitting time. Further research is needed to confirm an association between sitting time and multiple myeloma and explore a possible association between physical activity and NHL.
Long strands of DNA synthesized in vitro by Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I

Abstract A portion of the single-stranded DNA product of oligonucleotide-primed synthesis, with Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I and M13 DNA template, has a molecular weight several times that of template. This is not the result of a rolling circle mechanism but, instead, utilizes linear templates from broken circles. The mechanism probably involves a form of self-copying; however, there also is evidence for some preferential copying of the M13 viral DNA template.
Regionally selective alterations in expression of the α1D subunit (Cav1.3) of L-type calcium channels in the hippocampus of aged rats

Abstract Calcium currents through the L-type voltage-sensitive calcium channel (L-VSCC) are increased in neurons of area CA1 of the hippocampus in aged rats and rabbits. Furthermore, increases in mRNA for the pore forming subunit α1D (Cav1.3) have been observed in the hippocampus of aged rats. We have studied the protein expression of the two pore forming subunits, α1C (Cav1.2) and α1D, of L-VSCCs in the hippocampus of young and aged rats. Here we report selective age-related changes in expression of α1D in the hippocampus. Specifically, we find that α1D protein is increased in area CA1 of aged rats while it is decreased in area CA3. Our data suggest that the altered calcium currents seen in aged animals may be due, at least in part, to alterations in the expression of the α1D subunit of the L-type calcium channel. These findings contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for changes in calcium homeostasis during aging.
Reaction of phenobarbital with diphenhydramine

Abstract A compound of low water solubility, consisting of pheno- barbital-diphenhydramine in a 1:1 ratio and mp 109.5-110.5° was isolated from a prescription which had been dispensed as a clear solution and later returned with a white sediment. The information obtained suggested that it was either an easily dissociated complex or a salt.
Surface texturing of large area multicrystalline silicon solar cells using reactive ion etching method

Abstract A reactive ion etching method has been applied to form a surface texture of multicrystalline silicon solar cells in order to reduce the surface reflectance. This surface texture has a pyramid-like shape, and aspect ratio of which can be easily controlled by the gas flow ratio. 15 cm × 15 cm multicrystalline silicon solar cells have been fabricated using this texturing method and maximum conversion efficiency of 17.1% has been achieved.
Pharmacokinetics and adhesion of the Agile transdermal contraceptive patch (AG200-15) during daily exposure to external conditions of heat, humidity and exercise

Abstract Background This study compares the pharmacokinetic profile, adhesion and safety of the AG200-15 Agile Patch (AP), a novel contraceptive patch releasing low-dose ethinyl estradiol (EE) and levonorgestrel (LNG), during wear under external conditions of heat, humidity and exercise versus normal activities. Study Design This open-label, three-period, five-treatment, crossover study randomized 24 healthy women to one of six external condition sequences. Each sequence included one normal wear and two external conditions periods. Participants wore the AP for 7 days under normal conditions or conditions of daily sauna, treadmill, whirlpool or cool water immersion, with a 7-day washout between treatments. Blood samples were collected for pharmacokinetic evaluations. Results Twenty-four subjects completed the study. For EE, the mean maximum concentration level ( C max ), area under the plasma concentration���time curve from time 0 to 168 h (AUC 0���168 ) and area under the plasma concentration���time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC 0���inf ) were higher during normal conditions compared with all external conditions (geometric means ratio range: 80%���93%), except cool water. Mean steady-state concentrations ( C ss ) of EE were highest under normal conditions, followed by cool water, sauna, whirlpool and treadmill. The LNG mean C max , AUC 0���168 , AUC 0���inf and C ss were higher under normal wear versus all other conditions (geometric means ratios: 75%���82%), with the exception of AUC 0���168 , AUC 0���inf and C ss for cold water. Median times to maximum concentration ( T max ) for EE and LNG were comparable across conditions. Patch adhesion was excellent under all conditions. Adverse events were mild, with none serious or leading to discontinuation. Conclusions Although slightly lower mean drug concentration levels were observed for whirlpool, treadmill and sauna, drug concentrations under all conditions were well within therapeutic ranges established for the AP during normal wear and within ranges reported for low-dose combination oral contraceptives. Patch adhesion was excellent; the AP was safe and well tolerated under all conditions.
Some Pharmacological Characteristics of Bacitracin.

SummaryThe acute, intraperitoneal toxicity of bacitracin concentrates was greater in rats than in mice. The subcutaneous LD50 in mice was 4-7 times the intraperitoneal LD50. Lethal results were produced only with immense oral doses. Damage to the renal tubules, with tubular necrosis after very large doses, was observed in mice whereas in rats there was little kidney involvement. The toxicity of bacitracin, as measured by the LD50, appeared to be independent of the antibiotic activity. Concentrates of the antibiotic contained a minute amount of an histamine-like substance which was not responsible for the definite depressor effect caused by the intravenous injection of 10 mg (300 units) per kg into the dog.
Effect of calcitonin gene-related peptide on the neuroeffector mechanism of sympathetic nerve terminals in rat vas deferens

Abstract In order to evaluate the mode of action of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) on the neuroeffector mechanism of peripheral sympathetic nerve fibers, the effects of CGRP were tested on the electrical stimulated and the non-stimulated preparations of the isolated rat vas deferens. The contractile responses, which were mediated predominantly by activation of postganglionic noradrenergic nerve fibers, were dose-dependently inhibited by CGRP in concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 nM. The inhibitory response produced by CGRP in high concentrations ( >2 nM ) usually returned to the control level at 20–30 min and were rarely tachyphylactic. The inhibitory action of CGRP was not modified by pretreatment with 10 −7 M propranolol or 10 −7 M atropine. Contractions produced by exogenous norepinephrine (NE) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in unstimulated preparations were not affected by pretreatment with CGRP in a low concentration ( nM ). On the other hand, the contractions were slightly reduced 1 min after pretreatment with CGRP in high concentrations ( >5 nM ), which recovered in 15 min after constant flow washout. High concentrations of CGRP also caused a concentration-dependent relaxation on the precontracted preparations produced by high potassium (60 mM K + ) solution. These results suggest that (1) CGRP in high concentrations ( >5 nM ) may have a non-specific inhibitory action on the postsynaptic plasma membrane of the smooth muscle cell and (2) a postulated CGRP receptor exists presynaptically in the rat vas deferens and that CGRP may inhibit the release of NE during adrenergic nerve stimulation.
Sinkhole detection using 2D full seismic waveform tomography

We have developed an application of 2D time-domain waveform tomography for detection of embedded sinkholes and anomalies. The measured seismic surface wavefields were inverted using a full-waveform inversion (FWI) technique, based on a finite-difference solution of 2D elastic wave equations and the Gauss-Newton inversion method. The key advantage of this approach is the ability to generate all possible wave propagation modes of seismic wavefields (body waves and Rayleigh waves) that are then compared with measured data to infer complex subsurface properties.The pressure-wave (P-wave) and shear-wave (S-wave) velocities are inverted independently and simultaneously. The FWI was applied to one synthetic and two real experimental data sets. The inversion results of synthetic data showed the useful capability of the waveform analysis in identifying an embedded void. The inversion results of real data sets showed that the waveform analysis was able to delineate (1) an embedded concrete culvert and (2) a complex profile with an embedded void and highly variable bedrock laterally and vertically. An independent invasive test (standard penetration test) was also conducted to verify the seismic test results.
Unstable Behavior of the Laurentide Ice Sheet over Deforming Sediment and Its Implications for Climate Change

Geologic records of fluctuations of the Laurentide ice sheet margin following the most recent glacial maximum (ca. 20,000 14C yr B.P.) identify fundamental differences in ice-sheet behavior depending on subglacial bed conditions. Rapid and irregular icemargin fluctuations occurred only over areas of deforming sediment, indicating nonclimatic forcing controlled by the inherent instability of coupled ice sheet-deforming sediment dynamics. In contrast, largely uninterrupted ice-margin retreat with no evidence of significant readvance occurred over rigid-bed areas, indicating stable behavior. Unstable ice-sheet behavior was most pronounced from 15,000 until 10,000 14C yr B.P., by which time most of the ice margin had retreated onto a rigid bed. Unstable ice-sheet behavior would have been an integral component in controlling variable fluxes of icebergs and meltwater, as well as meltwater routing, to the North Atlantic, thus affecting thermohaline circulation. The abrupt climate oscillations in the North Atlantic region that ended at 10,000 14C yr B.P. may thus have their origin in the inherently unstable behavior of the Laurentide ice sheet overriding deforming sediment.
Beyond the Gym: Increasing Outside of School Physical Activity through Physical Education

The purpose of physical education is to guide youngsters to become and remain physically active for life. Research on correlates and determinants of physical activity has shown the importance of developing intrinsic motivation in students so that they will choose to be physically active in their leisure time. When the physical education curriculum is considered a physical activity intervention, learning outcomes, instructional tasks, and activities then target known correlates of physical activity. This article presents teaching strategies and curriculum outcomes that specifically target six correlates of physical activity among children and adolescents. By directing efforts toward known correlates of physical activity during physical education, teachers can help youth become more physically active outside of school.
Prototype microrobots for micro-positioning and micro-unmanned vehicles

The design and performance of two prototype microrobots are presented in this paper. The microrobots were implemented by surface micromachining arrays of 270 μm long, polycrystalline silicon legs across the surface of a silicon chip. The method of motion of the microrobots is designed to mimic the way six-legged insects walk. One microrobot leg design has two degrees-of-freedom motion, and the other leg design has one degree-of-freedom motion. Both microrobot designs are able to transport objects across their bellies while lying on their backs. The microrobot with one degree-of-freedom motion is able to support several times its own weight, making available the option to carry an autonomous power supply (such as a solar cell), microprocessor, control circuitry, test equipment, and sensing or surveillance devices. Results of the self-assembly of the microrobot legs using the surface tension of molten indium are also presented.
Replacement of Beef Fat with Partially Hydrogenated Plant Oil in Lean Ground Beef Patties

Partially hydrogenated plant oils (corn, cottonseed, palm, peanut and soybean) were substituted (in part) for beef fat in lean (10% fat) ground beef patties to improve nutrient content of ground beef. Effects of such addition on composition and consumer acceptability were evaluated. Addition of hydrogenated plant oils had little effect on composition of raw or cooked patties. Those containing hydrogenated corn or palm oil were not different (P>0.05) from all-beef patties in cooking loss or overall acceptability. Therefore substitution of hydrogenated oils for beef fat in production of lean ground beef patties may be feasible.
Carbon Isotope Geochemistry of the Orinoco Basin

Abstract Stable carbon isotope ratios have been used to study the sources of particulate organic carbon (POC) and total dissolved inorganic carbon in the Orinoco Basin. The isotopic composition of total dissolved inorganic carbon shows a range of from -8·1 to -23·0 ppt, an indication of dominance of biological processes. The isotopic composition of POC exhibits a range of from -24·1 to -34·6 ppt with little seasonal variation. The isotopic evidence indicates that the POC is predominantly of terrestrial origin rather than a result of in situ planktonic production. The similarity of isotopic composition of POC and coastal sediments suggests that riverine organic detritus has been transported 30-50 km offshore in a direction parallel to the Orinoco river channel.
Agricultural drought in a future climate: results from 15 global climate models participating in the IPCC 4th assessment

This study examines the impact of greenhouse gas warming on soil moisture based on predictions of 15 global climate models by comparing the after-stabilization climate in the SRESA1b experiment with the pre-industrial control climate. The models are consistent in predicting summer dryness and winter wetness in only part of the northern middle and high latitudes. Slightly over half of the models predict year-round wetness in central Eurasia and/or year-round dryness in Siberia and mid-latitude Northeast Asia. One explanation is offered that relates such lack of seasonality to the carryover effect of soil moisture storage from season to season. In the tropics and subtropics, a decrease of soil moisture is the dominant response. The models are especially consistent in predicting drier soil over the southwest North America, Central America, the Mediterranean, Australia, and the South Africa in all seasons, and over much of the Amazon and West Africa in the June–July–August (JJA) season and the Asian monsoon region in the December–January–February (DJF) season. Since the only major areas of future wetness predicted with a high level of model consistency are part of the northern middle and high latitudes during the non-growing season, it is suggested that greenhouse gas warming will cause a worldwide agricultural drought. Over regions where there is considerable consistency among the analyzed models in predicting the sign of soil moisture changes, there is a wide range of magnitudes of the soil moisture response, indicating a high degree of model dependency in terrestrial hydrological sensitivity. A major part of the inter-model differences in the sensitivity of soil moisture response are attributable to differences in land surface parameterization.
Organic material and calories in the egg of the brown pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis.

Abstract 1. 1. The ratio of yolk-egg-white was 28:72 in terms of wet weight, 40:60 in terms of organic material and 54:46 in terms of calories. 2. 2. The differences in proportions are due to the lower level of water and inorganic material and the higher level of lipid in the yolk. 3. 3. The relative energy content of the pelican egg (149 kcal/100 g) is less than that reported for eggs of most other bird species, although the absolute energy content (127 kcal/egg) is high. 4. 4. The levels of lipid, carbohydrate and protein in the pelican egg are similar to those reported for eggs of other bird species.
Statistical learning of social signals and its implications for the social brain hypothesis

The social brain hypothesis implies that humans and other primates evolved “modules” for representing social knowledge. Alternatively, no such cognitive specializations are needed because social knowledge is already present in the world — we can simply monitor the dynamics of social interactions. Given the latter idea, what mechanism could account for coalition formation? We propose that statistical learning can provide a mechanism for fast and implicit learning of social signals. Using human participants, we compared learning of social signals with arbitrary signals. We found that learning of social signals was no better than learning of arbitrary signals. While coupling faces and voices led to parallel learning, the same was true for arbitrary shapes and sounds. However, coupling versus uncoupling social signals with arbitrary signals revealed that faces and voices are treated with perceptual priority. Overall, our data suggest that statistical learning is a viable domain-general mechanism for learning social group structure. Keywords: social brain; embodied cognition; distributed cognition; situated cognition; multisensory; audiovisual speech; crossmodal; multimodal
A multivariate test of association

Summary: Although genetic association studies often test multiple, related phenotypes, few formal multivariate tests of association are available. We describe a test of association that can be efficiently applied to large population-based designs. Availability: A C++ implementation can be obtained from the authors. Contact: manuel.ferreira@qimr.edu.au Supplementary information: Supplementary figures are available at Bioinformatics online.
Upper bound on the rate of entropy increase accompanying noise power flow through linear systems

An upper bound is established for the rate of entropy increase due to noise power flow in a nonisothermal linear network containing n independent noise sources. The bound depends on the net power flows to (or from) the noise sources collectively, the lowest noise temperature in the network, and the efficiency of a Carnot heat engine operating between the highest and the lowest noise temperature occurring in a system. The author's example demonstrates that for a two port, the upper bound is actually reached and therefore a tighter bound cannot be found in general. Based on this example, a previously published bound is interpreted as the statement that the rate of entropy increase in the given n-port system cannot exceed that in a two port, in which the terminations are at the maximum and the minimum temperatures and the power flow equal the net value. >
Carbon and oxygen isotope analysis of leaf biomass reveals contrasting photosynthetic responses to elevated CO 2 near geologic vents in Yellowstone National Park

Abstract. In this study we explore the use of natural CO2 emissions in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) in Wyoming, USA to study responses of natural vegetation to elevated CO2 levels. Radiocarbon (14C) analysis of leaf biomass from a conifer (Pinus contortus; lodgepole pine) and an invasive, non-native herb (Linaria dalmatica; Dalmation toadflax) was used to trace the inputs of vent CO2 and quantify assimilation-weighted CO2 concentrations experienced by individual plants near vents and in comparable locations with no geologic CO2 exposure. The carbon and oxygen isotopic composition and nitrogen percent of leaf biomass from the same plants was used to investigate photosynthetic responses of these plants to naturally elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The coupled shifts in carbon and oxygen isotope values suggest that dalmation toadflax responded to elevated CO2 exposure by increasing stomatal conductance with no change in photosynthetic capacity and lodgepole pine apparently responded by decreasing stomatal conductance and photosynthetic capacity. Lodgepole pine saplings exposed to elevated levels of CO2 likewise had reduced leaf nitrogen concentrations compared to plants with no enhanced CO2 exposure, further suggesting widespread and dominant conifer down-regulated photosynthetic capacity under elevated CO2 levels near geologic vents.
Biomarker selection and sample prediction for multi-category disease on MALDI-TOF data

Motivation: Diseases normally progress through several stages. Therefore, biomarkers corresponding to each stage may exist. To deal with such a multi-category problem, including sample stage prediction and biomarker selection, we propose methods for classification and feature selection. The proposed classification method is based on two schemes: error-correcting output coding (ECOC) and pairwise coupling (PWC). The final decision for a test sample prediction is an integration of these two schemes. The biomarker pattern for distinguishing each disease category from another one is achieved by the development of an extended Markov blanket (EMB) feature selection method. Results: In this study, a liver cancer matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) dataset was used, which comprises hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cirrhosis, and healthy spectra. Peak patterns were discovered for distinguishing pairwise categories among the three classes. Importance and reliability of individual peaks were presented by the measurements of certain weight values and frequencies. The classification capability of the proposed approach was compared with classical ECOC, random forest, Naive Bayes, and J48 methods. Availability: Supplementary materials are available at http://visionlab.uta.edu/biomarker/bioinfo.htm Contact: gao@uta.edu
A Prospective Investigation of the Relationship Between Just-World Beliefs and the Desire for Revenge After September 11, 2001

We prospectively examined the relationship between individuals' belief in a just world and their desire for revenge against the perpetrators of the September 11 terrorist attacks against the United States. Eighty-three undergraduate students who had completed a measure of just-world beliefs prior to the terrorist attacks were assessed approximately 2 months following the attacks. The more strongly they had endorsed just-world beliefs prior to the attacks, the more distressed they felt about the attacks and the more they desired revenge. Furthermore, the relationship between belief in a just world and the desire for revenge was mediated by feelings of distress in response to the terrorist attacks. The results point to the importance of justice beliefs in understanding responses to the terrorist attacks.
Haptic system to alert users before impending human errors

High performance cognitive environments such as surgery or driving pose extensive constraints on efficient perception of salient information. In such environments it is beneficial to track physiological signals from the operator and predict errors and their type before they occur and alert the operator to take preventive action. The challenge lies in interpreting complex neural data obtained through sensors such as EEG signals and subsequently alerting the subject to possible errors. This paper presents a EEG based analysis system coupled with a haptic glove and visual feedback based alert system to provide such functionality. The haptic glove was made from six vibratory motors placed on fingers and palm. The EEG system consisted of a Bluetooth EEG cap that monitored attention distraction and drowsiness. Results show that the hand based system for delivering visio-haptic signals to alert users to impending errors can help in avoiding human errors.
Work in progress - flexible learning environments to improve interdisciplinary creativity and team interactions

This paper reports preliminary results from a semester-long case study of interdisciplinary student engineering design teams that use a classroom with flexible features in order to examine the impact of team interaction and flexible environment on creativity. Twenty-one students recruited from a senior-level interdisciplinary class consisted of five self-formed teams with computer engineering, marketing, communication and industrial design majors. They were tasked with a “Smart Dorm Room” design project for students with special needs. Team meetings were observed and interviews and questionnaires were administered to examine student perception of the impact of physical environment and tools as well as team interaction levels and creativity of the teams. Preliminary findings confirm the positive impact of flexible environment as well as interdisciplinary team interactions on creativity.