cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isoniazid induced seizures and cerebral cortical and cerebellar energy metabolism

Isoniazid is a useful chemical convulsant in that metabolic events associated with the preseizure state can be easily examined. In the present study, net levels of glucose, glycogen, ATP, and phosphocreatine were measured using enzymatic techniques in control mice, and in those injected with isoniazid. Results from this study showed a differential effect of isoniazid on cells from the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum. In the preseizure stage, the high energy phosphates ATP and phosphocreatine were decreased in layer 1 and the pyramidal cell layer of the cerebral parietal cortex, but were unchanged in the cerebellum. At the onset of seizures, metabolites were decreased not only in cortical layers, but in the molecular layer and Purkinje cell rich layer of the cerebellum as well. The somewhat delayed response of the cerebellum emphasizes the differential nature of metabolism in various brain regions. Such a delay in cerebellar energy response to perturbation may be conducive to the seizure state. In another series of mice, either sodium valproate or clonazepam was administered prior to isoniazid, and metabolite studies repeated. Results showed that at a time when each anticonvulsant acted to eliminate overt seizure activity, the reduction in ATP and phosphocreatine was not as great as it was in seizing mice treated with isoniazid alone.
The Impact of Bispectral Index Monitoring on Rates of Propofol Administration

The purpose of this article is to examine the efficacy of Bispectral Index (BIS) monitoring as a tool for adjusting the amount of propofol patients receive to maintain a safe and adequate level of sedation in a neurocritical care setting. The BIS monitor is utilized as an adjunct for anesthesia monitoring in the operating room setting and is currently being investigated as a tool for objective sedation monitoring in the critical care setting. 1-6 Sedation is discussed in terms of patient safety and comfort. A secondary data analysis was used to test the hypothesis that BIS monitoring provides a more objective form of sedation assessment that will lead to a decrease in overall rates of propofol administration and fewer incidences of oversedation. Data were abstracted from a quality improvement study of propofol use adjusted to BIS values in patients whose sedation levels were previously adjusted to a goal Ramsay score. The results suggest that there are potential benefits to incorporating BIS into routine sedation assessment in the neurocritical care setting.
The zeros of the Artin l-series of a cubic field on the critical line

Denote by ψ(s) the Artin L-series of the non-abelian cubic field K. Let N0(T) be the number of zeros of ψ(12 + it) for 0 0, there exists a positive constant T0, such that for T > T0: N0(T) > T12(log23T(loglogT)13+ϵ)−1
Tracer diffusion in systems exhibiting enhanced local composition

Abstract Diffusion coefficients for the solute phenol blue in several binary liquid solvent mixtures were measured at 298 K. The solvents were binary mixtures of cyclohexane + acetone, cyclohexane + benzophenone, and cyclohexane + toluene. Certain experiments were comopromised because phenol blue strongly adsorbed on stainless steel when the solvent was cyclohexane-rich. In contrast, high local compositions of acetone, benzophenone, or toluene around the solute prevented solute adsorption during the experiment.
Comparison of leaf and pod disease reactions of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) inoculated by different methods with strains of Xanthomonas campestris pv. Phaseoli (Smith) dye

Common blight disease in beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli, reduces crop yield and seed quality. Information is needed on the variation of leaves and pods disease reaction to strains of the bacterium after different inoculation methods. Phaseolus vulgaris cultivars ‘Red Kidney Charlevoix’, ‘GN Harris’, ‘GN 1140’, and ‘GN Emerson’ were inoculated with three different strains of Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli at two inoculum concentrations (108 and 106 bacterial cells/ml) using water soaking, multiple needle, and razor blade inoculation on leaves, and razor blade scratch, dissecting needle, and razor blade cut inoculation on pods. Differential cultivar disease reactions of leaves, pods, or both to the bacterial strains were observed in some cases. Significant interactions among cultivars, inoculation methods, strains, and inoculum concentrations (leaves) were found. A rapid leaf chlorosis developed 6 to 7 days after inoculation. Strains of bacteria did not show specificity in inducing this reaction, but rapid leaf chlorosis was associated with high inoculum concentration and with the water soaking and multiple needle methods. Another experiment was conducted to count the number of living bacterial cells deposited in the leaf tissue after inoculation by different methods. The number of bacteria deposited by water soaking or multiple needle was higher than that deposited by razor blade.
Unusual Pathogens Causing Cellulitis and Bacteremia in Hemodialysis Patients

Cellulitis in immunocompetent hosts is usually caused by skin organisms and responds to oral antibiotics. In immunocompromised hosts, such as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients, unusual organisms with variable pathogenicity can cause infections. We present two cases with isolates that are usually encountered in coastal waters. Case 1. A 71-year old African-American ESRD patient presented with a painful lesion on the right leg for 3 weeks, and fever and chills for 2 days. He sustained a right leg wound 4 weeks prior to presentation. During that period a tropical storm flooded his house contaminating his open wound with salt water. He had a 3 cm erythematous and tender ulcer on his right leg. Blood cultures grew Vibrio alginolyticus. He was successfully treated with a 4-week course of Gentamicin. Case 2. A 70 year-old Caucasian male ESRD patient presented with severe tenderness and erythema of his left forearm after an injury on a shrimp boat 10 hours prior to presentation. He was hypotensive, febrile, and required intensive care for vasopressor support and intravenous antibiotics. His blood cultures grew Vibrio vulnificus and he was treated successfully with doxycyclin and ceftazidime. Vibrio species are halophilic marine gram-negative bacteria. Vibrio alginolyticus was the causative agent of cellulitis and bacteremia in our first hemodialysis patient, who was exposed to flood waters. V. alginolyticus, a non-lactose fermenting gram-negative bacillus, has rarely been isolated from blood. Vibrio vulnificus was isolated from our first patient presenting with cellulitis and subsequent septicemia. V. vulnificus belongs to the lactose positive vibrio group, which is likely to produce severe localized or systemic disease. Both patients were successfully treated with appropriate antibiotics after obtaining the antibiotic sensitivities. In both cases, the common features were immunosuppression and exposure to marine environments. These two cases of life-threatening cellulitis and bacteremia are presented as an example of environmental pathogens common to a selected environment, i.e., marine vibrio species, and the imperative need of rapid identification and treatment in immunocompromised hosts.
Video Game Characters and the Socialization of Gender Roles: Young People’s Perceptions Mirror Sexist Media Depictions

Video game characters are icons in youth popular culture, but research on their role in gender socialization is rare. A content analysis of images of video game characters from top-selling American gaming magazines showed male characters (83%) are more likely than female characters (62%) to be portrayed as aggressive. Female characters are more likely than male characters to be portrayed as sexualized (60% versus 1%), scantily clad (39% versus 8%) and as showing a mix of sex and aggression (39 versus 1%). A survey of teens confirmed that stereotypes of male characters as aggressive and female characters as sexually objectified physical specimens are held even by non-gamers. Studies are discussed in terms of the role media plays in socializing sexism.
Construction of Peptidase-Resistant Substrates for Kinases

Peptides composed entirely of native amino acids are used extensively in the biomedical community as substrates in assays for kinase activity. However, the usefulness of peptides is limited when kinase activity is measured in cell lysates or intact cells due to hydrolysis of the peptide bonds by peptidases. Replacement of native amino acids has been of high utility in the development of peptidase-resistant peptides for use as enzyme inhibitors as well as for therapeutic applications. Past efforts at creating peptidase-resistant substrates for kinases using a similar strategy have not generally met with success. The primary reason is that peptides with non-native residues are often very poor substrates for kinases. This work focuses on the development of degradation-resistant, peptide-based substrates for BCR-ABL and Akt (PKB). To understand which peptide bonds were most susceptible to hydrolysis, fluorescently tagged peptides were incubated in cell lysates and capillary electrophoresis was utilized to monitor peptide cleavage over time. All possible peptide fragments were synthesized and used as standards to identify the peptide bonds most vulnerable to cleavage. The residues adjacent to these fragmentation sites were replaced with non-native residues in an iterative fashion to stabilize the peptide. In a cell lysate, a modified BCR-ABL reporter possessed a half-life of 19 minutes, compared to 2 minutes for the unmodified reporter. Furthermore, this modified peptide retained activity as a substrate for BCR-ABL. Similar iterative replacement of non-native amino acids into an Akt substrate yielded a peptide with an extended lifetime in cell lysates which remained suitable for phosphorylation by Akt. Future work includes characterization of the native and modified reporters in single cells utilizing capillary electrophoresis.
Effect of NOx control processes on mercury speciation in utility flue gas

The speciation of Hg in coal-fired flue gas can be important in determining the ultimate Hg emissions as well as potential control options for the utility. The effects of NOx control processes, such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR), on Hg speciation are not well understood but may impact emissions of Hg. EPRI has investigated the reactions of Hg in flue gas at conditions expected for some NOx control processes. This paper describes the methodology used to investigate these reactions in actual flue gas at several power plants. Results have indicated that some commercial SCR catalysts are capable of oxidizing elemental Hg in flue gas obtained from the inlets of SCR or air heater units. Results are affected by various flue gas and operating parameters. The effect of flue gas composition, including the presence of NH3, has been evaluated. The influence of NH3 on fly ash Hg reactions also is being investigated.
New method for estimating the impact of heterogeneous forcing on atmospheric circulations

[1] In this study, a new method for estimating the impact of heterogeneous forcing on atmospheric circulations is discussed. This new method is similar to the commonly used model-based sensitivity studies in that the impact of forcing is diagnosed by a suitable measure of differences between atmospheric states with and without forcing, but it differs in the way the atmospheric states are evaluated: by combining standard atmospheric data analysis, observationally based estimates of the forcing, atmospheric observations, and general circulation model (GCM) ensemble simulations. A new numerical technique, derived from the ensemble Kalman filter data assimilation approach, is used for objective estimation of the atmospheric state not affected by the forcing. Using a tutorial example, numerical experiments were conducted varying an asymmetric thermal forcing as a proxy for the heterogeneous forcing. Results show that the method is capable of producing skilled estimates of the impact of the forcing. Strategies for application of the method with real-world data and GCMs are discussed. This new method is expected to produce more realistic estimates of the forcing impact than the standard model sensitivity approach because of the explicit use of the observationally based estimates of atmospheric states and forcing.
Optical antenna design for nanophotodiodes

Guidelines for designing an optical antenna for optimizing the performance of a nanophotodiode are proposed. A nanopatch design is simulated with over 70% absorption efficiency using germanium as the absorber.
Stereotactic hypofractionated accurate radiotherapy of the prostate (SHARP), 33.5 Gy in five fractions for localized disease: First clinical trial results

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and toxicity of stereotactic hypofractionated accurate radiotherapy (SHARP) for localized prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: A Phase I/II trial of SHARP performed for localized prostate cancer using 33.5 Gy in 5 fractions, calculated to be biologically equivalent to 78 Gy in 2 Gy fractions (α/β ratio of 1.5 Gy). Noncoplanar conformal fields and daily stereotactic localization of implanted fiducials were used for treatment. Genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity were evaluated by American Urologic Association (AUA) score and Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC). Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) values and self-reported sexual function were recorded at specified follow-up intervals. Results: The study includes 40 patients. The median follow-up is 41 months (range, 21–60 months). Acute toxicity Grade 1–2 was 48.5% (GU) and 39% (GI); 1 acute Grade 3 GU toxicity. Late Grade 1–2 toxicity was 45% (GU) and 37% (GI). No late Grade 3 or higher toxicity was reported. Twenty-six patients reported potency before therapy; 6 (23%) have developed impotence. Median time to PSA nadir was 18 months with the majority of nadirs less than 1.0 ng/mL. The actuarial 48-month biochemical freedom from relapse is 70% for the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology definition and 90% by the alternative nadir + 2 ng/mL failure definition. Conclusions: SHARP for localized prostate cancer is feasible with minimal acute or late toxicity. Dose escalation should be possible.
Flow properties of suspensions with high solids concentration

Equations were developed for evaluating the laminar flow behavior of high-solids suspensions from the physical properties of the liquid and solid components. A technique was developed for calculating suspension flow rates as a function of pressure drop. The technique is applicable to the design of pipe lines. Flow measurements were made in pipe-line viscometers of a unique design that minimized entrance and exit effects. Experimental flow data were obtained for suspensions consisting of nickel, alumina, copper, or glass solids in sodium, xylene, or glycerine vehicles with solids concentrations of 28 to 55 vol. %. The basis for the correlation of the data was an analytical investigation of the flow behavior that considered the particle-particle interaction that takes place in a settled suspension. The correlation equations fit all systems investigated. They take into account the effects of liquid viscosity, liquid and solid densities, particle size, size distribution, particle surface area, volume fraction of solids in the suspension, and volume fraction of solids at maximum settled conditions.
Effect of departure delays on manned Mars mission selection

This study determines the effect on the initial mass in low Earth orbit (IMLEO) of delaying departure from Mars and Earth by 5, 15, and 30 days, once a nominal mission to Mars has been selected. Additionally, the use of a deep-space maneuver (DSM) is considered in order to alleviate the IMLEO penalties. Three different classes of missions are analyzed, using chemical and nuclear thermal propulsion systems in the 2000-2025 time frame: opposition, conjunction, and fast-transfer conjunction. The results indicate that Mars and Earth delays can lead to large IMLEO penalties. Opposition and fast-transfer conjunction-class missions have the highest IMLEO penalties, upwards of 432.4 and 1977.3 metric tons (mt), respectively. Conjunction-class missions, on the other hand, tend to be insensitive to Mars and Earth delays, having IMLEO penalties under 103.5 mt. As expected, nuclear thermal propulsion had significantly lower IMLEO penalties than chemical propulsion. The use of a DSM does not significantly reduce the penalties. The results of this study can enable mission designers to incorporate the influence of off-nominal departure conditions of the interplanetary trajectory in the overall conceptual design of a Mars transfer vehicle.
Developments in correlated fermions

Abstract This manuscript is based on the Summary and Overview talk given at the “The International Conference of Strongly Correlated Electronic Systems” (SCES’04), July 26–30, at Karlsruhe, Germany. After highlighting some of the principal new experimental developments in heavy fermions presented at the conference, I turn to two kinds of theoretical questions: (1) What is understood of the fermi-liquid state of the heavy fermions and what is not, but may reasonably well be understood by systematic calculations. (2) The profound issues raised by the observed correlations near the quantum critical points in the heavy fermions. The numbers and letters in the parenthesis in the text refer to the listing of the talks in the “Program and Abstracts” book of the conference.
Repeated restraint stress-induced increase in baroreceptor reflex sensitivity: role of corticotropin-releasing factor.

The effect of central administration of a corticotropin-releasing factor antagonist on repeated restraint stress-induced changes in the baroreceptor reflex response to phenylephrine was examined in male Wistar-Kyoto rats. Rats were instrumented with intracerebroventricular guide cannula and femoral arterial and venous catheters. On each of 5 consecutive days, two groups received either a central infusion of saline or an infusion of the corticotropin-releasing factor antagonist, astressin. One saline- and one astressin-treated group experienced 20 min of restraint stress 10 min after each infusion. The other saline- and astressin-treated groups served as non-stressed controls. Twenty-four hours later, each rat received 3 doses of phenylephrine which produced equivalent increases in mean arterial pressure in each of the 4 treatment groups. Reflex bradycardia was significantly greater in the saline-treated/repeated restraint group than in the saline-treated/no restraint group. This effect of repeated restraint on the baroreceptor reflex was attenuated by administration of astressin prior to each session of restraint. A single 20 min session of restraint stress failed to alter baroreceptor reflex sensitivity. However, repeated central infusions of exogenous CRF failed to alter BRR sensitivity. In a separate experiment, astressin failed to attenuate the increases in mean arterial pressure and heart rate which occurred during each session of restraint stress and, in fact, diminished habituation of the blood pressure response in the last session. The results suggest that repeated stress increases thesensitivity of the baroreceptor reflex and that corticotropin-releasing factor has a role in this stress-induced change.
Numerical simulation of reversed-field pinch rising current operation

One of the most interesting reversed‐field pinch (RFP) experimental results occurs in discharges where the toroidal current is slowly raised after toroidal field reversal is established. These discharges exhibit the RFP dynamo effect in its most unambiguous form showing the strong nonlinear coupling of the external poloidal and toroidal magnetic field circuits via the plasma‐magnetic‐field configuration. Three‐dimensional, single‐fluid resistive magnetohydrodynamic simulations of these discharges are reported. It is found that the appropriate nonlinear coupling needed to explain the experimental observations is provided by one or more helical resistive modes of long wavelength.
Activation of the integrin alpha v beta 3 involves a discrete cation-binding site that regulates conformation.

"Activation" of integrins is involved in the dramatic transition of leukocytes and platelets from suspension to adhesion. The integrin alpha v beta 3 is not known to take part in this sort of transition, even though it shares its beta subunit with alpha IIb beta 3, the activable integrin on platelets. In the context of a constitutively adhered cell, changes in activation state may be more subtle in their effects, but nonetheless important in regulating cell behavior. We hypothesized that alpha v beta 3 can undergo conformational changes analogous to those associated with alpha IIb beta 3 activation. Accordingly, we examined alpha v beta 3 on the surface of M21 cells (a human melanoma cell line) and found that, like alpha IIb beta 3, it can undergo conformational changes upon binding of a ligand analog and can be activated for ligand binding and migration by a monoclonal antibody directed against beta 3. Modulation of the binding of this activating antibody, AP5, ligand binding, and antibody-mediated activation all are associated with a discrete cation-binding site shared in both alpha IIb beta 3 and alpha v beta 3. Based on a measured Ki, this site has an apparent Kd for calcium of approximately 20 microM. At physiological levels of calcium, about 40% of the total alpha v beta 3 on a cell's surface is in a conformation detected by AP5. The data suggest a model for both alpha v beta 3 and alpha IIb beta 3 function in which the molecule can exist in either of (at least) two conformational states, one stabilized either by AP5 or ligand binding, refractory to calcium binding, and enhanced for ligand recognition, the other stabilized by calcium binding and refractory to AP5 and ligand binding. Functional analysis suggests that AP5 activates alpha v beta 3 by preventing occupation of this calcium site, and that the activated form of alpha v beta 3 differs functionally from the basal form. The active form is more conducive to migration and the basal to tight adhesion.
Developmental determinants of word and nonsense anagram solution

Solution-time differences for word and nonsense anagrams occur for 5-letter but not 3- or 4-letter anagrams. Word and nonsense solution-time differences are found for 12- and 14-year-old Ss but not for Ss 8 and 10 years old. With greater anagram lengths, performance of younger Ss becomes more clearly differentiated from that of older Ss. A dual-process developmental theory of anagram problem-solving is offered to account for the date.
LSGermOPA, a custom OPA of 384 EST-derived SNPs for high-throughput lettuce ( Lactuca sativa L.) germplasm fingerprinting

To deploy a high-throughput genotyping platform in germplasm management, we designed and tested a custom OPA (Oligo Pool All), LSGermOPA, for assessing the genetic diversity and population structure of the USDA cultivated lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) germplasm collection using Illumina’s GoldenGate assay. This OPA contains 384 EST (expressed sequence tag)-derived SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) markers selected from a large set of SNP markers experimentally validated and mapped by the Compositae Genome Project. Used for genotyping were DNA samples prepared from bulked leaves of five randomly-selected seedlings from each of 380 lettuce accessions. High-quality genotype data were obtained from 354 of the 384 SNPs. The reproducibility of automatic genotype calls was 99.8% as calculated from the four pairs of duplicated DNA samples in the assay. An unexpectedly high percentage of heterozygous genotypes at the polymorphic loci for most accessions indicated a high level of heterogeneity within accessions. Only 148 homogenous accessions, collectively comprising all five horticultural types, were used in subsequent analyses to demonstrate the usefulness of LSGermOPA. The results of phylogenetic relationship, population structure and genetic differentiation analyses were consistent with previous reports using other marker systems. This suggests that LSGermOPA is capable of revealing sufficient levels of polymorphism among lettuce cultivars and is appropriate for rapid assessment of genetic diversity and population structure in the lettuce germplasm collection. Challenges and strategies for effective genotyping and managing lettuce germplasm are discussed.
The surface tension of liquid uranium from its melting point, 1406°K to 1850°K

Abstract The surface tension of liquid uranium was measured from its melting point (1406°K) to 1850°K by the maximum bubble pressure method with a probable error of 40 dyn/cm, or 2·5 per cent at the melting point. Impervious aluminium oxide tubes having a tip measuring 2 mm o.d. × 0·3 mm wall × 5 mm long were immersed in the liquid uranium which was held in a thorium dioxide crucible contained in a molybdenum tube under argon. Extrapolation of the data to the melting point (1406°K) gave a preliminary value of 1550 dyn/cm. From the experimental points and the relationship Δσ ΔT = σ m.·p. (T c − T m.·p. ) −1 , the following tentative equations for the surface tension of liquid uranium were determined. σ dyn/cm = 1747 − 0·14 T(° K ) or σ dyn/cm = 1550 − 0·14(T − 1406° K )
Production of succinate by the canine whipworm Trichuris vulpis

Abstract Succinic acid has been identified as a fermentation product of the intestinal nematode Trichuris vulpis by melting point determination and by infrared spectrophotometry of the di-p-bromphenacyl ester. The significance of succinate formation as a possible source of energy for anaerobic organisms is discussed.
Genes and networks expressed in perioperative omental adipose tissue are correlated with weight loss from Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Gastric bypass surgery is the most commonly performed bariatric surgical procedure in the United States. Variable weight loss following this relatively standardized intervention has been reported. To date, a method for reliable profiling of patients who will successfully sustain weight loss for the long term has not been established. In addition, the mechanisms of action in accomplishing major weight loss as well as the explanation for the variable weight loss have not been established. To examine whether gene expression in perioperative omental adipose is associated with gastric bypass-induced weight loss. Cross-sectional study of gene expression in perisurgical omental adipose tissues taken/available at the time of operation and total excess weight loss (EWL). Fifteen overweight individuals who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery at the University of California Davis Medical Center (BMI: 40.6–72.8 kg/m2). Body weight before and following weight stabilization 18–42 months after surgery. Perioperative omental adipose RNA isolated from 15 subjects was hybridized to Affymetrix HG-U133A chips for 22 283 transcript expression measurements. Downstream analysis identified a set of genes whose expression was significantly correlated with RYGB-induced weight loss. The significant individual genes include acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1 (ACOX1), phosphodiesterase 3A cGMP-inhibited (PDE3A) and protein kinase, AMP-activated, beta 1 non-catalytic subunit (PRKAB1). Specifically, ACOX1 plays a role in fatty acid metabolism. PDE3A is involved in purine metabolism and hormone-stimulated lipolysis. PRKAB1 is involved in adipocytokine signaling pathway. Gene network analysis revealed that pathways for glycerolipid metabolism, breast cancer and apoptosis were significantly correlated with long-term weight loss. This study demonstrates that RNA expression profiles from perioperative adipose tissue are associated with weight loss outcome following RYGB surgery. Our data suggest that EWL could be predicted from preoperative samples, which would allow for informed decisions about whether or not to proceed to surgery.
Vitamin D Deficiency Modulates Graves’ Hyperthyroidism Induced in BALB/c Mice by Thyrotropin Receptor Immunization

TSH receptor (TSHR) antibodies and hyperthyroidism are induced by immunizing mice with adenovirus encoding the TSHR or its A-subunit. Depleting regulatory T cells (Treg) exacerbates thyrotoxicosis in susceptible BALB/c mice and induces hyperthyroidism in normally resistant C57BL/6 mice. Vitamin D plays an important role in immunity; high dietary vitamin D intake suppresses (and low intake enhances) adaptive immune responses. Vitamin D-induced immunosuppression may enhance Treg. Therefore, we hypothesized that decreased vitamin D intake would mimic Treg depletion and enhance hyperthyroidism induced by A-subunit adenovirus immunization. BALB/c mice had a reduced ability vs. C57BL/6 mice to generate the active metabolite of vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3). Vitamin D deficiency induced subtle immune changes in BALB/c (not C57BL/6) mice. Compared with mice fed regular chow, vitamin D-deprived BALB/c mice had fewer splenic B cells and decreased interferon-gamma responses to mitogen and lacked memory T-cell responses to A-subunit protein. However, vitamin D deficiency did not alter TSHR antibody responses measured by ELISA, TSH binding inhibition, or cAMP generation from TSHR-expressing cells. Unexpectedly, compared with vitamin D-sufficient mice, vitamin D-deficient BALB/c mice had lower preimmunization T(4) levels and developed persistent hyperthyroidism. This difference was unrelated to the immunological changes between vitamin D-deficient or -sufficient animals. Previously, we found that different chromosomes or loci confer susceptibility to TSHR antibody induction vs. thyroid function. Our present studies provide evidence that an environmental factor, vitamin D, has only minor effects on induced immunity to the TSHR but directly affects thyroid function in mice.
MOCHE SUBSTYLES: KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING MOCHE POLITICAL ORGANIZATION

Las variantes en la ceramica fina Moche han sido generalmente atribuidas a la evolucion estilistica a traves del tiempo. Este articulo propone una explicacion alternativa: que diferentes entidades politicas dentro del territorio Moche produjeron deliberadamente sus propias variantes o subestilos de ceramica fina, como una manera de expresar su identidad. Cada subestilo tuvo su propio centro de produccion, asi como su propio inicio, florecimiento y declive. La cronologia de los subestilos no fue secuencial, con uno comenzando cuando otro terminaba. En cambio, hubo una historia mucho mas compleja, con subestilos frecuentemente traslapados en el tiempo. El reconocimiento de distintos subestilos Moche puede proveer importantes aproximaciones a la civilizacion Moche. En la medida de que los subestilos esten definidos y su produccion identificada geografica y temporalmente, sera posible identificar a las entidades politicas y evaluar su relativa fortaleza durante su desarrollo y declive.
Expression of cholinergic muscarinic receptor subtypes mRNA in rat blood mononuclear cells

Abstract The cholinergic system plays a role in the neuroimmune network. White blood cells have been found to express muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors as well as acetylcholinesterase on their surface, and cholinergic agents have been shown to modulate immune functions. Although the presence of muscarinic receptors on white blood cells has been well documented by binding and functional studies, the subtype(s) of muscarinic receptor present on these cells is still unknown. We have previously shown the absence of m2 muscarinic receptor subtype mRNA in rat mononuclear cells (Costa et al., 1994). The expression of m1, m3, m4 and m5 mAChR mRNA was analyzed in this study in rat peripheral blood mononuclear cells by Northern blotting hybridization experiments and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Only mRNA of the m3 subtype was detected in rat mononuclear cells, at levels about 100 times lower than in brain. Traces of m4 subtype mRNA were found in lymphocytes, at levels about 10 000 times lower than the cerebral cortex, while m5 mRNA was undetectable.
Impact of Pattern of Admission on ICH Outcomes

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with the highest mortality of all strokes. Admission to a Neurosciences Critical Care Unit (NCCU) compared to a general ICU has been associated with reduced mortality following ICH. Such association has led to several hospitals transferring ICH patients to Neuro-ICUs in tertiary care centers. However, delays in optimizing ICH management prior to and during transfer can lead to deleterious consequences. To compare functional outcomes in ICH patients admitted to our NCCU directly from the ED versus inter-hospital transfer admissions. Records of consecutive spontaneous supratentorial ICH patients admitted to The Johns Hopkins Hospital NCCU were reviewed. Patients with ICH related to trauma or underlying lesions (brain tumors, aneurysms, AVM) were excluded. We compared outcomes at discharge in patients admitted directly from the ED and inter-hospital transfers (IHT) using dichotomized modified Rankin Scale (Good outcomes: mRS 0-3). Other factors potentially impacting outcomes such as age, ICH volume, IVH volume, and admission GCS were included in the multiple logistic regression analysis. 125 patients were included in the analysis (ED 61.6%; IHT 38.4%). There were no significant differences between the two groups in mean age (ED 63.4 ± 13.1; IHT 63.4 ± 15.2, P = 0.96), ICH volume (ED 31.4 ± 37.6; IHT 33.5 ± 42.8, P = 0.76), IVH volume (ED 6.0 ± 11.2; IHT 8.0 ± 14.5, P = 0.38), and GCS (ED 11.3 ± 3.7, IHT 10.9 ± 3.5; P = 0.44). 57.2% ED patients had good outcomes (mRS 0-3) at discharge compared to 37.5% IHT. This difference was statistically significant following univariate (P = 0.034, 95% CI .2151–.9416) and multivariate analysis (P = 0.028, 95% CI .1338–.8896). Odds (adjusted) of ED admissions having good outcomes was three times higher than IHT. Neurological deterioration (GCS decline 2 or more) was more common in IHT and, in subgroup analysis of IHT patients with warfarin-associated ICH, hematoma enlargement was significantly more likely than in direct ED admissions. Patients with ICH brought directly to our ED had significantly better outcomes than IHT; we hypothesize this may be caused by delays in optimizing management prior to arrival at the facility with a dedicated Neuro-ICU. Nevertheless, other equally plausible hypotheses need to be prospectively tested.
Experience With Testis Sparing Surgery for Testicular Teratoma

ABSTRACTPurpose: Testicular teratoma is a rare neoplasm affecting the pediatric population and has classically been reported to be the second most common testis tumor in children behind yolk sac tumors. Testicular teratomas are benign and partial orchiectomy may be considered. We describe our single institution experience with testicular teratoma and definitive treatment with testis preserving surgery.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the pathology records at our institution for all testicular and paratesticular tumors diagnosed between 1976 and November 2002 in males younger than 18 years. We specifically examined the prepubertal incidence of teratoma, including epidermoid cysts, and our experience with testis preserving surgery. Preoperative and postoperative ultrasonography images were used to calculate the atrophy index following surgery. Patients were contacted for long-term followup.Results: Of 77 primary testicular and paratesticular tumors 38 were diagnosed in prepubertal boys (age younger than 1...
Temptation Bias: Can Self-enhancement Limit the Influence of Gender Stereotypes?

Temptation bias is the tendency to see oneself as better than others at resisting temptation. To understand the influence of self-enhancement and gender stereotypes on temptation bias, 215 undergraduates from a university located in the southwest region of the United States compared their ability to resist ten sexually tempting scenarios to that of others in general, and to their romantic partner (Study 1). An additional 151 undergraduates from the same university rated their own or their partner’s ability to resist seven sexually tempting scenarios compared to other men and women (Study 2). Results revealed that temptation bias was present but reduced when romantic partners were the comparison targets; and when comparing themselves to others, women displayed temptation bias regardless of the gender of the referent while men displayed temptation bias only when comparing themselves to men.
Antihyperlipidemic activity of sesquiterpene lactones and related compounds

Some naturally occurring pseudoguaianolides and germacranolides as well as synthetic related compounds were observed to be antihyperlipidemic agents in mice. Several of these compounds at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day resulted in lowering of serum cholesterol by ∼30% and of serum triglycerides by ∼25%. Thiol-bearing enzymes of lipid synthesis, i.e., acetyl-CoA, citrate-lyase, acetyl-CoA synthetase, and β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, were inhibited by these agents in vitro, supporting the premise that these agents alkylate thiol nucleophiles by a Michael-type addition. The α-methylene-γ-lactone moiety, the β-unsubstituted cyclopentenone ring, and the α-epoxycy-clopentanone system of these compounds appeared to be responsible for the lowering of serum lipids.
The influence of long term beta-mimetic drug administration during pregnancy on blood loss postpartum.

Abstract Early blood loss after delivery was measured in all prematurely ending singleton pregnancies (amenorrhea 29–38 wk) during which the patients had been treated with betamimetics (ritodrine or fenoterol) for the prevention of premature labor, during a 4 yr study period (1975–1978) ( n = 129). For comparison, postpartum blood loss was measured in the same way in all other (not treated) patients who delivered with the same gestational ages during the first 2 yr of the investigation ( n = 176). Only vaginal deliveries were included and some patient categories were excluded. Placental weight and episiotomy status were found to effect the amount of early postpartum blood loss at a significant level. Blood loss after delivery was found not to be increased by chronic beta-mimetic treatment, even when this treatment ended less than 24 h before delivery. Moreover, when the treatment—delivery interval exceeded 24 h, the average amount of blood loss by treated patients was less than that of the untreated patients in some comparison categories. No difference in the amount of blood loss was found according to the specific drug that had been used.
In silico Analysis and Experimental Verification of OSR1 Kinase - Peptide Interaction

The oxidative-stress-responsive kinase 1 (OSR1) and the STE20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase (SPAK) are key enzymes in a signaling cascade regulating the activity of Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporters (NKCC1-2) and Na(+)-Cl(-) cotransporter (NCC). Both kinases have a conserved carboxyl-terminal (CCT) domain, which recognizes a unique peptide motif present in OSR1- and SPAK-activating kinases (with-no-lysine kinase 1 (WNK1) and WNK4) as well as their substrates (NKCC1, NKCC2, and NCC). Utilizing various modalities of the Rosetta Molecular Modeling Software Suite including flexible peptide docking and protein design, we comprehensively explored the sequence space recognized by the CCT domain. Specifically, we studied single residue mutations as well as complete unbiased designs of a hexapeptide substrate. The computational study started from a crystal structure of the CCT domain of OSR1 in complex with a hexapeptide derived from WNK4. Point mutations predicted to be favorable include Arg to His or Trp substitutions at position 2 and a Phe to Tyr substitution at position 3 of the hexapeptide. In addition, de novo design yielded two peptides predicted to bind to the CCT domain: FRFQVT and TRFDVT. These results, which indicate a little bit more freedom in the composition of the peptide, were confirmed through the use of yeast two-hybrid screening.
A Huge Marketing Research Task-Birth Control

Increasing the amount of family planning in less-developed countries is crucial to their economic development and is basically a marketing job. Much important marketing research has been done in this area; its history is described here. But much more needs to be done. (authors)
Revision of the Nearctic Liodessus affinis (Say 1823) species group (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini)

North American members of the Liodessus affinis (Say 1823) species complex are revised. The species group comprises four species. Two new species are described: L. noviaffinis (type locality: Gainesville Forest Insect Lab, Alachua Co., Florida) and L. saratogae (type locality: Saratoga Springs, San Bernardino County, California). Liodessus obscurellus (LeConte 1852), formerly considered a junior subjective synonym of L. affinis, is given specific status. The following synonymies are established: L. affinis microreticulatus (Hatch 1928), L. charlottii (Clark 1862), L. emilianus (Clark 1862), L. erythrostomus (Mannerheim 1852), L. macularis (LeConte 1852), and L. nigrinus (Casey 1884) = L. obscurellus. All of these names were previously treated as junior subjective synonyms of L. affinis. Also, L. youngi (Larson & Roughley 1990) = L. abjectus (Sharp 1882). Lectotypes are designated for L. abjectus, L. charlottii, L. erythrostomus, L. emilianus, L. macularis, L. nigrinus, and L. obscurellus. A neotype is designated for L. affinis. Liodessus nanus (Aube 1838) is considered a species name of uncertain status, but is probably a subjective synonym of L. affinis. A key is provided for the nine known species of North American Liodessus Guignot. The genus Liodessus is diagnosed, and its taxonomic history and questionable status as a natural group are discussed. The L. affinis complex is diagnosed, and its taxonomic history and natural history are discussed. Male genitalia are the only consistently useful structures known for differentiating species in the L. affinis complex. Females are not distinguishable based on currently known morphological features but may be identified using geographic information. Characters used previously, including coloration, punctation and general shape are too variable within and between species to be useful for species diagnosis or delimitation. For each species in the complex the following are provided: a bibliography of the species, discussion of type specimens, taxonomic history and synonymy, diagnosis, variation, etymology (for new species), geographic relationships, natural history, and geographic distribution. Distribution maps and illustrations of important structural features are provided for all species of the complex. For other Nearctic species of Liodessus the following are provided: a brief bibliography of the species, diagnosis, distribution, remarks about bionomics and/or taxonomy, and illustrations of important structural features.
Automobile driving as psychophysical discrimination.

The driver tries to keep the car in the center of the lane. If the car is too near the left edge, this causes the driver to make a “corrective” right turn. If the car is near the right edge, a “corrective” left turn is made. Therefore, a quantity which decreases with increasing distance ΔL from the left edge may be considered as a stimulusSR producing the reactionRR of turning to the right. A similar situation holds for the distance ΔR from the right edge. When the car is in the center of the lane, ΔL = ΔR andSR=SL, the stimuli are equal. We thus have here a situation analogous to the one studied by H. D. Landahl in his theory of psychophysical discrimination. In general a reactionRR (resp.RL) will occur only ifRR−RL≥h* (resp.RL−RR≥h*) whereh* is a threshold. Applying Landahl’s theory to this situation, we find thath* determines the distance from the edge, at which a corrective turn is made. This distance is not constant, but a function of the speedv of the car. The requirement that a corrective turn should be madebeforre the car runs off the road leads to an expression for the maximum safe speed. Because of the transcendency of the equations involved, closed solutions cannot be obtained. It is, however, shown that the expression for maximum safe speed, given in a previous paper (Bull. Math. Biophysics,21, 299–308, 1959), is a rough first approximation to the expressions found now.
Microsomal drug-metabolizing enzyme activity inlivers of bats

Abstract 1. 1. Hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activities in two species of eastern American bats ( Myotis lucifugus and Plecotus rafinesquii ) wwere found to be qualitatively similar to, but quantitatively distinct from, most other mammals. 2. 2. Ethylmorphine N-demethylase and NADPH cytochrome c reductase activities in bats were only about 20–25 per cent those in other mammals while microsomal protein and cytochrome P-450 levels were only slightly less in bats. 3. 3. Ultrastructurally, liver cells of bats showed abundant mitochondria, many of which showed distinct configurational differences. Endoplasmic reticulum in bat liver cells was very sparse relative to most mammals. 4. 4. Electron micrographs of microsomal suspensions from bats demonstrated a relative lack of smooth membranes and the microsomes from M. lucifugus exhibited an uncommon non-versiculated appearance.
Relationship between Ca2+ uptake and catecholamine secretion in primary dissociated cultures of adrenal medulla.

: Carbachol or elevated K+ stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake into chromaffin cells two- to fourfold. The uptake was stimulated by cholinergic drugs with nicotinic activity, but not by those with only muscarinic activity. Ca2+ uptake and catecholamine secretion induced by the mixed nicotinic-muscarinic agonist carbachol were inhibited by the nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine, but not by the muscarinic antagonist atropine. Significant Ca2+ uptake occurred within 15 s of stimulation by carbachol or elevated K+ at a time before catecholamine secretion was readily detected. At later times the time course of secretion induced by carbachol or elevated K+ was similar to that of Ca2+ uptake. There was a close correlation between Ca2+ uptake and catecholamine secretion at various concentrations of Ca2+. The concentration dependencies for inhibition of both processes by Mg2+ or Cd2+ were similar. Ca2+ uptake saturated with increasing Ca2+ concentrations, with an apparent Km for both carbachol-induced and elevated K+-induced Ca2+ uptake of approximately 2 mM. The Ca2+ dependency, however, was different for the two stimuli. The studies provide strong support for the notion that Ca2+ entry and a presumed increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration respectively initiates and maintains secretion. They also provide evidence for the existence of saturable, intracellular, Ca2+- dependent processes associated with catecholamine secretion. Ca2+ entry may, in addition, enhance nicotinic receptor desensitization and may cause inactivation of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels.
A nonparametric method to estimate a technical change effect on marginal abatement costs of U.S. coal power plants

The literature usually assumes that technical change reduces marginal abatement cost; however, recent results suggest that precisely the opposite occurs. This paper proposes a nonparametric method to determine the effect of technical change on marginal abatement cost. The method decomposes NOx marginal abatement cost changes in 2000–2004 and in 2004–2008 for 325 boilers operating in 134 U.S. bituminous coal power plant into technical and non-technical change effects. We find that technical change reduces the NOx marginal cost about 28.3% in 2000–2004 and 26.5% in 2004–2008. However, more stringent regulations enacted the NOx budget program results in lower NOx emission levels as plant operators install more advanced NOx abatement equipment which in turn causes an overall increase in marginal abatement cost.