cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Th2 Cytokine IL-4 Is Not Required for the Progression of Antibody-Dependent Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis

Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG), a disorder of the neuromuscular junction, is mediated by autoantibodies against muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR). The roles of IFN-gamma (Th1) and IL-4 (Th2) cytokines in the initiation and progression of this disease are not fully understood. Recently, we have demonstrated that IFN-gamma is necessary for the initiation of tAChR-induced EAMG in mice. However, the role of IL-4 in the progression of clinical EAMG remained undetermined. In this study we have addressed the contribution of IL-4 in the disease progression in IL-4(-/-) C57BL/6j mice whose IL-4 gene has been disrupted. Following immunization with Torpedo (t) AChR, the IL-4(-/-) mice readily developed signs of muscle weakness and succumbed to clinical EAMG with kinetics similar to the susceptibility of IL-4(+/+) mice. The tAChR-primed lymph node cells from IL-4(-/-) mice vigorously proliferated to tAChR and to its dominant alpha146-162 sequence associated with disease pathogenesis. However, these T cells secreted higher levels of IFN-gamma and IL-2, suggesting the development of a Th1 default pathway in these mice. Nevertheless, the IL-4 mutation had no effect on the recruitment of CD4+ Vbeta6+ T cells specific to the dominant tAChR alpha146-162 sequence in vivo. Immune sera from IL-4(-/-) mice showed a dramatic increase in mouse AChR-specific IgG2a levels followed by a concomitant decrease in IgG1 levels, but these mice did not exhibit an accelerated disease. In conclusion, we have demonstrated for the first time that IL-4 is not required either for the generation of a pathogenic anti-AChR humoral immune response or for progression of clinical EAMG in mice.
Applying a Mixture Design for Consumer Optimization of Black Cherry, Concord Grape and Pomegranate Juice Blends

Expanding interest in the nutraceutical market inspires sensory- and nutraceutical-oriented optimization methods. Black cherry (BlkCh), Concord grape (Con) and pomegranate (Pom) juices were blended according to a mixture design (seven juice treatments) and evaluated by descriptive and consumer panels. Consumers (n = 100) evaluated estimated overall liking (OL), pre- and post-antioxidant information OL, appearance OL, just-about-right (JAR) attributes, purchase intent and familiarity to determine an optimum juice formulation and the influence of consumer characteristics on acceptance of nutraceutical-rich juices. Descriptive (n = 10) and consumer (n = 100) data showed that Con juice attributes (sweetness, Concord flavor, caramelized flavor) were positive, and that the attributes of BlkCh and Pom juices were negative. Post-antioxidant information OL was high for Con juice (7.48) and low for BlkCh juice (5.01) and Pom juice (5.01). Using the desirability function, juice blend solutions were generated based on OL for pre-antioxidant-information (77% Con + 3% Pom + 20% BlkCh) and post-antioxidant information (75% Con + 12% Pom + 13% BlkCh). Pom juice had the most antioxidants, and the post-antioxidant information solution had a higher level of Pom. JAR analysis showed that 33% Con + 33% Pom + 33% BlkCh juice had fewer nonoptimal attributes than 100% Pom or 100% BlkCh juice, but had more antioxidants than 100% Con juice. Evaluating consumer OL, diagnostic and descriptive data provided a comprehensive understanding of how products could be adjusted to maximize consumer acceptance. Practical Applications Black cherry, Concord grape and pomegranate juice blends are prime candidates for the nutraceutical juice market because of their inherent health-oriented characteristics and portable convenience. Consumer-driven approaches to balance the nutraceutical and sensory quality of products are necessary to optimize consumer utility. Merely applying instrumental measures of nutraceutical levels to optimization models does not incorporate how consumers value those attributes; thus, an optimization that applied consumer value of antioxidants in juice products was used, the principle of which could aid in the future development of nutraceutical beverages.
Land Titles and Land Plots Turnover Structure in Russia in 2010

This paper deals with the issues of land titles and land turnover in Russia in 2010. The author focuses on the structure of land turnover in Russian regions.
Mandibular advancement and reduction genioplasty

This case report is presented in accordance with the specifications of the American Board of Orthodontics. Before treatment, the patient had a unilateral transverse discrepancy and dentoskeletal Class II malocclusion. Clinically, however, the profile was acceptable. She was treated with an orthodontic and orthognathic surgical approach. Interesting treatment-planning considerations included the existence of an eight-unit bridge and incisor periapical pathosis.
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate and Isoform-specific Activation of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase β EVIDENCE FOR DIVERGENCE AND CONVERGENCE OF RECEPTOR-REGULATED ENDOTHELIAL NITRIC-OXIDE SYNTHASE SIGNALING PATHWAYS

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a platelet-derived sphingolipid that elicits diverse biological responses, including angiogenesis, via the activation of G protein-coupled EDG receptors. S1P activates the endothelial isoform of nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS), associated with eNOS phosphorylation at Ser-1179, a site phosphorylated by protein kinase Akt. We explored the proximal signaling pathways that mediate Akt activation and eNOS regulation by S1P/EDG receptors. Akt is regulated by the lipid kinase phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K). We found that bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) express both α and β isoforms of PI3-K, while lacking the γ isoform. S1P treatment led to the rapid and isoform-specific activation of PI3-Kβ in BAEC. PI3-Kβ can be regulated by G protein βγ subunits (Gβγ). The overexpression of a peptide inhibitor of Gβγ attenuated S1P-induced eNOS enzyme activation, as well as S1P-induced phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt. In contrast, bradykinin, a classical eNOS agonist, neither activated any PI3-K isoform nor induced eNOS phosphorylation at Ser-1179, despite activating eNOS in BAEC. Vascular endothelial growth factor activated both PI3-Kα and PI3-Kβ via tyrosine kinase pathways and promoted eNOS phosphorylation that was unaffected by Gβγ inhibition. These findings indicate that PI3-Kβ (regulated by Gβγ) may represent a novel molecular locus for eNOS activation by EDG receptors in vascular endothelial cells. These studies also indicate that different eNOS agonists activate distinct signaling pathways that diverge proximally following receptor activation but converge distally to activate eNOS.
Terms of Trade and Domestic Distribution: Export Led Growth with Abundant Labor Supply

A general equilibrium macro model is constructed to explore effects of export-led growth policies on the terms of trade and the domestic distribution of a developing region with abundant labour. This region, the South, trades with another, the North; they have different technologies and supplies of factors. It is shown that under certain conditions of dualism in the production of goods and of abundant labour supply in the South, an increase in the volume of exports from the South may bring about at sustained worsening of the South's terms of trade with the North even if this increase in exports is due to a positive shift in demand from the North. This change in the terms of trade is accompanied by a sustained loss of purchasing power of wages within the South. These results take plane in a Walrassian stable market. When technologies are more homogeneous and labour less abundant, the results are reversed: increased exports will take place together with improvements in terms of trade and a tendency to equalise factor prices between the regions. The results argue for coordination of domestic and international policies with special attention to technologies and labour markets.
Metformin improves endothelial function in aortic tissue and microvascular endothelial cells subjected to diabetic hyperglycaemic conditions

The cellular mechanisms whereby metformin, the first line drug for type 2 diabetes (T2DM), mediates its antidiabetic effects remain elusive, particularly as to whether metformin has a direct protective action on the vasculature. This study was designed to determine if a brief 3-h exposure to metformin protects endothelial function against the effects of hyperglycaemia. We investigated the protective effects of metformin on endothelial-dependent vasodilatation (EDV) in thoracic aortae from T2DM db/db mice and on high glucose (HG, 40 mM) induced changes in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling in mouse microvascular endothelial cells (MMECs) in culture. Exposure of aortae from db+/? non-diabetic control mice to high glucose (HG, 40 mM) containing Krebs for 3-h significantly (P<0.05) reduced acetylcholine (ACh)-induced EDV compared to ACh-induced EDV in aortae maintained in normal glucose (NG, 11 mM) Krebs. The reduction of EDV was partially reversed following a 3-h exposure to 50 μM metformin; metformin also improved ACh-induced EDV in aortae from diabetic db/db mice. Immunoblot analysis of MMECs cultured in HG versus NG revealed a significant reduction of the ratio of phosphorylated (p-eNOS)/eNOS and p-Akt/Akt, but not the expression of total eNOS or Akt. The 3-h exposure of MMECs to metformin significantly (P<0.05) reversed the HG-induced reduction in phosphorylation of both eNOS and Akt; however, no changes were detected for phosphorylation of AMPK or the expression of SIRT1. Our data indicate that a 3-h exposure to metformin can reverse/reduce the impact of HG on endothelial function, via mechanisms linked to increased phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt.
Streptococcus mutans Adherence: Presumptive Evidence for Protein-Mediated Attachment Followed by Glucan-Dependent Cellular Accumulation

Adherence of Streptococcus mutans to smooth surfaces has been attributed to the production of sucrose-derived d-glucans. However, several studies indicate that the bacterium will adhere in the absence of sucrose. The present data confirmed that S. mutans adherence to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite beads in the absence of sucrose is described by the Langmuir equation. The nature of the sucrose-independent adherence was studied with the Persea americana agglutinin as a selective adherence inhibitor. Pretreatment of the bacterium with P. americana agglutinin caused a 10-fold reduction in adherence, and the inhibition was not reversed with the addition of sucrose. Pretreatment of S. mutans with proteases also reduced adherence, regardless of the sucrose content, whereas periodate oxidation and glucanohydrolase treatment of the bacteria reduced sucrose-mediated adherence to the levels found for sucrose-independent adherence. The P. americana agglutinin, glucanohydrolase, and pepsin pretreatment of the cells did not eliminate sucrose-induced agglutination. Scanning electron microscopy showed that short streptococcal chains were bound to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite crystals in the sucrose-independent system, whereas the presence of sucrose caused larger bacterial clumps to be found. A two-reaction model of S. mutans adherence was developed from these data. It is proposed that one reaction is attachment to the tooth pellicle which is mediated by cell-surface proteins rather than glucans or teichoic acids. The other reaction is cellular accumulation mediated by sucrose-derived d-glucans and cell surface lectins. A series of sequential adherence experiments with P. americana agglutinin as a selective inhibitor provided presumptive evidence for the validity of our model of S. mutans adherence. Images
Molecular evolution of the plant R regulatory gene family

Anthocyanin pigmentation patterns in different plant species are controlled in part by members of the myc-like R regulatory gene family. We have examined the molecular evolution of this gene family in seven plant species. Three regions of the R protein show sequence conservation between monocot and dicot R genes. These regions encode the basic helix-loop-helix domain, as well as conserved N-terminal and C-terminal domains; mean replacement rates for these conserved regions are 1.02 x 10(-9) nonsynonymous nucleotide substitutions per site per year. More than one-half of the protein, however, is diverging rapidly, with nonsynonymous substitution rates of 4.08 x 10(-9) substitutions per site per year. Detailed analysis of R homologs within the grasses (Poaceae) confirm that these variable regions are indeed evolving faster than the flanking conserved domains. Both nucleotide substitutions and small insertion/deletions contribute to the diversification of the variable regions within these regulatory genes. These results demonstrate that large tracts of sequence in these regulatory loci are evolving at a fairly rapid rate.
A framework for modeling microbial transport and dynamics in the subsurface

Abstract A framework and specific models are presented for modeling microbial transport and dynamics in the subsurface. To create a more widely applicable model, spatial heterogeneity and various rescalings need to be incorporated. Rescalings occur when a change in some variable changes the structure of the model. Microbes at high abundance can cause a rescaling of transport flow paths, thereby causing a rescaling of standard transport equations. We present a two-stage modeling approach for dealing with these rescalings. At fine scales, percolation modeling of particle transport can allow the interactions of soil heterogeneity and microbial behaviors to be represented. The results at this scale can be used to derive effective parameters for coarser scale simulations. Percolation models are again used at the coarser scale to define flow paths. Regions within the subsurface are modeled as chemostats. Combining these two approaches yields a chemostat-network percolation modeling framework. This framework can be used for scaling up laboratory studies to the field, for modeling heterogeneous systems, for studying colonization and persistence, and for studying selection processes, among other applications.
Human motives and the concept of the self.

In order to understand how human motives affect human conduct it is necessary to deal with the question of how problems arising by the so-called defense-mechanisms or mechanisms of adjustment influence us. In reviewing the mechanisms of adjustment in motivational theory the author points out the lack of systematic treatment, and the paucity of carefully formulated experimentation. The assumption is made that "all the mechanisms imply a self-reference, and that the mechanisms are not understandable unless we adopt a concept of the self." Three aspects of the concept of the self are discussed. (1) The mechanisms and the self. (2) The self present in awareness. (3) The inferred self. The establishment of laboratories for the study of psychodynamics is recommended. Psychologists who work in these laboratories will stem from heterogeneous backgrounds, yet they will be united in their scientific research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Search for the Neutron Disappearance using the KamLAND Detector

Data from the Kamioka Liquid scintillator Anti-Neutrino Detector (KamLAND) have been analyzed to search for the signature of neutrons disappearing to invisible channels. Improved limits have recently been set by KamLAND on these nucleon decay lifetimes. This poster presented the data analysis that resulted in these limits, as well as the ongoing research that aims to improve the calibrations and efficiency estimates for further nucleon decay searches with KamLAND.
Mucosal targeting of a BoNT/A subunit vaccine adjuvanted with a mast cell activator enhances induction of BoNT/A neutralizing antibodies in rabbits.

Background We previously reported that the immunogenicity of Hcβtre, a botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT/A) immunogen, was enhanced by fusion to an epithelial cell binding domain, Ad2F, when nasally delivered to mice with cholera toxin (CT). This study was performed to determine if Ad2F would enhance the nasal immunogenicity of Hcβtre in rabbits, an animal model with a nasal cavity anatomy similar to humans. Since CT is not safe for human use, we also tested the adjuvant activity of compound 48/80 (C48/80), a mast cell activating compound previously determined to safely exhibit nasal adjuvant activity in mice. Methods New Zealand White or Dutch Belted rabbits were nasally immunized with Hcβtre or Hcβtre-Ad2F alone or combined with CT or C48/80, and serum samples were tested for the presence of Hcβtre-specific binding (ELISA) or BoNT/A neutralizing antibodies. Results Hcβtre-Ad2F nasally administered with CT induced serum anti-Hcβtre IgG ELISA and BoNT/A neutralizing antibody titers greater than those induced by Hcβtre + CT. C48/80 provided significant nasal adjuvant activity and induced BoNT/A-neutralizing antibodies similar to those induced by CT. Conclusions Ad2F enhanced the nasal immunogenicity of Hcβtre, and the mast cell activator C48/80 was an effective adjuvant for nasal immunization in rabbits, an animal model with a nasal cavity anatomy similar to that in humans.
Modeling macroscopic transport of superoxide radicals through nonoheterogeneous biosensor film

We develop a mathematical model to represent the transport phenomena and electrochemical reaction kinetics during amperometric measurement of superoxide radical concentration using ZnO-polymer nanocomposite sensor. This model assumes a logarithmic normal distribution for the nanoparticles immobilized in the polymer matrix and an empirical relation for the diffusion coefficient of superoxide radicals as a function of pore volume fraction. A kinetic with secondary order rate constant is used to represent the electrochemical reactions of electron transfer from the superoxide radicals to nanoparticles. The predicted results include the effect of diffusion coefficient on concentration and electrical conductivity.
Lightness Constancy in the Presence of Specular Highlights

Visible surfaces in a natural environment often have multiple components of reflectance, including a diffuse component, by which light is scattered isotropically in all possible directions, and a specular component, by which light is reflected anisotropically within a limited range of directions. The research described in the present article was designed to investigate how these different components of reflectance influence the perception of lightness. Human observers were presented with shaded images of smoothly curved surfaces and asked to compare the relative lightness of different surface regions whose diffuse and specular components of luminance were independently manipulated. The results revealed that observers are able to discount the presence of specular highlights so that the relative lightness among different regions is determined almost entirely by the diffuse component of surface reflectance.
Secular change in solar activity derived from ancient varves and the sunspot index

The Hale solar period, τH(1) ≃22 yr, and its second harmonic, τH(2)≃11 yr, which characterize the sunspot index and are thus hydromagnetic, are imprinted in certain varved rocks of Archaean1 to late Precambrian2 age, but the varves record climate and thus are sensitive to solar insolation2,3. We report here apparent collective behaviour of the two kinds of data. The 22-yr/11-yr amplitude spectral density (ASD) ratio, βi (i = 1) of the sunspot index (which is a measure of solar-cycle asymmetry), plotted together with βis from three ancient varve thickness sequences against the age for each βi, results in a remarkably close fit to a decreasing exponential with time constant τ≃2 Gyr. These varves and the sunspot index appear to link solar luminosity and the solar field, implying that a common forcing mechanism affects luminosity and the dynamo periods through the common decay time, τ.
The molecular and population genetics of cyclodiene insecticide resistance.

Abstract Cyclodiene resistance has accounted for over 60% of reported cases of insecticide resistance. Understanding of this resistance can therefore help us answer questions relating to the mechanism and origin of representative resistance-associated mutations, questions fundamental to the molecular and populations genetics of pesticide resistance. The cyclodiene resistance gene Rdl ( resistance to dieldrin ) was cloned from a mutant of the model insect Drosophila resistant to cyclodienes and picrotoxinin. Rdl codes for a subunit of a novel class of GABA gated chloride ion channels and resistance is correlated with replacement of the same amino acid residue in a wide range of species from different insect orders. This single amino acid replacement Ala 302 > Ser, within the proposed lining of the chloride ion channel, also confers insensitivity to the blocking action of cyclodienes and picrotoxinin on GABA gated chloride ion channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The resistance mechanism involves both changes in cyclodiene binding site affinity and also a change in the rate of receptor desensitization which destabilizes the cyclodiene-favored conformation. Documentation of the resistance associated mutation has allowed for the design of a PCR based molecular monitoring technique. This technique gives more accurate estimates of resistance gene frequency from smaller sample sizes and has shown the frequency of resistance in apparently unselected populations of Drosophila to be as high as 1%. We are still uncertain as to why resistance persists in the apparent absence of selection pressure and any severe reduction in the fitness of resistant strains, besides a paralytic phenotype at high temperature, remains undocumented.
AEROSOL COMPOSITION OF URBAN PLUMES PASSING OVER A RURAL MONITORING SITE

A field study conducted at a ground site 100 km north of St. Louis, Mo., to measure the aerosol composition and gaseous concentrations of urban plumes passing the site is discussed. Coarse and fine aerosol elemental concentrations, height scattering, meteorological data and concentrations of SO/sub 2/, CO, O/sub 3/, and NO-NO/sub x/ were measured and then analyzed together with data from associate investigators on fluorocarbon-11, total hydrocarbons, and size distributions. The results show that: (1) gaseous and elemental aerosol concentrations at the ground site 100 km from the St. Louis urban area were clearly influenced by the St. Louis urban plume, (2) the urban plumes of Chicago and Indianapolis, 350 km from the ground site, may have been detected, (3) sulfur compounds, presumably sulfates, accounted for 30-40% of the mass loading within the St. Louis urban plume, and resided almost entirely within the size range below 2.5 microns, (4) the most reliable urban-plume tracers in this study were fine Pb, fluorocarbon-11, total nonmethane hydrocarbons, and CO, and (5) over a period of several days, there may have been a regional buildup of fine S, light scattering, aerosol mass, O/sub 3/, and NO/sub x/ and, to a lesser extent, CO andmore » fluorocarbon-11.« less
Oxyhemoglobin inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity

The effects of human oxyhemoglobin (HbO2), human methemoglobin (MetHb), and porcine serum albumin (PSA) on the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) isolated from Electrophorus electricus were examined. HbO2 produced a dose-dependent reduction in AChE activity. Fifty percent of activity was obtained at 5 microM HbO2, while 95% inhibition was obtained at 50 microM. In this concentration range MetHb and PSA had little effect on esterase activity.
Pressure broadening in the 6190 Å vibration-rotation band of methane

Abstract A tunable dye laser coupled with photoacoustic detection has been utilized to obtain the pressure broadening coefficient of the 6196.82 A line in the 6190 A vibration-rotation band of CH4. The pressure broadening coefficient was found to be 0.086 ± 0.006 cm−1/atm. This is in close agreement with similar lines in the fundamental and lower overtone bands of CH4 and provides some information about trends in collisional interactions with increasing vibrational excitation.
Competing roles of microstructure and flaw size

Historically, engineers have relied on macroscopic properties, e.g. hardness and tensile strength to predict fatigue limits as analytical tools to model the process did not exist. Consequently, many empirical modifications to the fatigue limit have been made to account for variables, e.g. surface roughness, state of stress, inclusion content, environmental effects, etc. A mechanistic model is proposed to quantify the effects of these parameters on the fatigue limit of metals, specifically steels. Fatigue resistance, i.e. the threshold condition of a non-propagating crack, is determined by two parameters: non-propagating defect or crack size; and the strength of the barrier to crack propagation. The concept of three defect types associated with three different flaw-dominated fatigue regimes is introduced. Furthermore, application of the model to fatigue mechanisms in high-strength steels, synergistic effects of surface finish and intergranular cracks, competition between surface and subsurface fatigue nucleation, tempering, and scatter in fatigue behaviour is demonstrated. The model can be implemented in material screening, selection and processing, as well as a guide for future material research and design. Overall, the model is proven as a simple and robust tool for qualifying and statistically quantifying material behaviour.
Two models of a cryptography and computer security class in a liberal arts context

The critical need for computer security concepts to be taught in the undergraduate computer science curriculum is evident from current news stories, curricular guidelines, and government initiatives. Beginning to teach a standalone computer security course can be daunting, especially for instructors with little or no background or formal education in computer security. An elective course in cryptography and computer security was developed that matched the talents of the professor and the resources and context of the two Universities and departments in which it was taught. Two models of the course evolved: an elective semester-long computer science and mathematics cross-listed course, and an elective summer computer science course with significant hands-on laboratory exercises. Either course may be used as a model for an accessible course offering involving computer security.
Brain ANG II and prostaglandins mediate the pressor response after central blockade of nitric oxide synthase.

Central inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 150 microg/5 microl) to conscious rats produced a biphasic pressor response characterized by an initial transient increase within 5 min, and a delayed response starting between 60-90 min. The effect was stereospecific, as D-NAME (250 microg/5 microl) did not modify the resting arterial blood pressure, nor did L-arginine (323 microg/5 microl, i.c.v.), indicating the substrate for NOS is not rate-limiting. Intracerebroventricular pretreatment with losartan (25 microg/5 microl), a non-peptide antagonist of the angiotensin II AT1 receptor subtype, or indomethacin (100 microg/5 microl), a blocker of cyclooxygenase, however, prevented the initial increase in blood pressure without affecting the delayed pressor response. In contrast, neither intravenous losartan (10 mg/kg b.wt) nor prazosin, an alpha1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, at doses of 5 microg/5 microl (i.c.v.) or 0.3 mg/kg b.wt (i.v.) were effective in altering the pressor responses. These results indicate that centrally produced NO maintains the resting arterial blood pressure at least partially through modulation of the brain angiotensin system and prostaglandins.
Mechanical Behaviors of Woven Fabrics

This paper introducing some recent research progress consists of two parts: the shear deformation analysis and Poisson’s ratios for woven fabrics. The analytical methods of the shear moduli and Poisson’s ratios for woven fabrics will enable more rigorous studies on such important issues of fabric bending and draping behaviors. A new mechanical model is proposed in this paper to evaluate the shearing properties for woven fabrics during the initial slip region. Compared to the existing mechanical models for fabric shear, this model involves not only bending but also torsion of curved yarns. Analytical results show that this model provides better agreement with the experiments for both the initial shear modulus and the slipping angle than the existing models. Furthermore, another mechanical model for a woven fabric made of extensible yarns is developed to calculate the fabric Poisson’s ratios. Theoretical results are compared with the available experimental data. A thorough examination on the influences of various mechanical properties of yarns and structural parameters of fabrics on the Poisson’s ratios of a woven fabric is given.© 2004 ASME
Identification of a subtelomeric gene family expressed during the asexual-sexual stage transition in Plasmodium falciparum.

For malaria transmission, the parasite must undergo sexual differentiation into mature gametocytes. However, the molecular basis for this critical transition in the parasites life cycle is unknown. Six previously uncharacterized genes, Pfg14.744, Pfg14.745, Pfg14.748, Pfg14.763, Pfg14.752 and Pfg6.6 that are members of a 36 gene Plasmodium falciparum-specific subtelomeric superfamily were found to be expressed in parasites that are committed to sexual development as suggested by co-expression of Pfs16 and Pfg27. Northern blots demonstrated that Pfg14.744 and Pfg14.748 were first expressed before the parasites differentiated into morphologically distinct gametocytes, transcription continued to increase until stage II gametocytes were formed and then rapidly decreased. Immunofluorescence assays indicated that both proteins were only produced in the subpopulation of ring stage parasites that are committed to gametocytogenesis and both localized to the parasitophorous vacuole (PV)b of the early ring stage parasites. As the parasites continued to develop Pfg14.748 remained within the parasitophorous vacuole, while Pfg14.744 was detected in the erythrocyte. The 5′ flanking region of either gene alone was sufficient to drive early gametocyte specific expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP). In parasites transfected with a plasmid containing the Pfg14.748 5′ flanking region immediately upstream of GFP, fluorescence was observed in a small number of schizonts the cycle before stage I gametocytes were observed. This expression pattern is consistent with commitment to sexual differentiation prior to merozoite release and erythrocyte invasion. Further investigation into the role of these genes in the transition from asexual to sexual differentiation could provide new strategies to block malaria transmission.
Malabsorption of protein-bound cobalamin but not unbound cobalamin during cimetidine administration

The suppressive effects of cimetidine on acid, pepsin, and intrinsic factor secretion have been well documented; however, the effect of cimetidine on cobalamin absorption has not been assessed. The absorption of both unbound [57Co] cyanocobalamin and protein-bound [57Co] cyanocobalamin was evaluated in 12 patients with duodenal ulcer disease during and after discontinuation of cimetidine therapy. Cimetidine administration did not lead to malabsorption of unbounds cobalamin but caused malabsorption of protein-bound cobalamin (0.22±0.08%, [mean±1sem] versus 2.3±0.10% in control subjects,P<0.01). This malabsorption was reversible upon discontinuation of cimetidine. Patients on cimetidine therapy malabsorb protein-bound cobalamin and, during long-term treatment, are at risk for developing cobalamin deficiency. This malabsorption of protein-bound cobalamin is not detectable by the usual tests of cobalamin absorption which employ unbound cobalamin.
Interleukin-4 induces both lgg4 and ige secretion by peripheral blood b cells

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy nonallergic donors were cultured with recombinant interleukin-4 (rIL-4), and the Ig of different isotypes was quantitated in the culture supernatants by radioimmunoassays. Recombinant IL-4 induced IgG4 and IgE secretion in a dose-dependent manner, whereas it had no consistent effect on the secretion of the other isotypes. In the absence of rIL-4, B cells in the PBMC preparations secreted less than 1 ng IgE/ml and a mean of 5 ng IgG4/ml. In the presence of the optimal dose of 100 U rIL-4/ml, PBMCs from five donors secreted a mean +/- SEM of 37 +/- 8 ng IgE/ml and 66 +/- 25 ng IgG4/ml. In kinetic studies, no IgG4 or IgE secretion was detected during the first 5 days of culture, and approximately 50% of the IgG4 and IgE secreted by day 15 was detected in supernatants on day 7. Cycloheximide, actinomycin-D, and mytomycin-C completely inhibited the rIL-4-induced IgG4 and IgE secretion, indicating that de novo protein, RNA, and DNA synthesis was required. As shown by Percoll buoyant density centrifugation, rIL-4 induced B cells in the high-density fraction to secrete IgG4 and IgE, whereas it inhibited spontaneous IgG4 secretion by low-density B cells. Interferon-gamma inhibited IL-4-induced IgG4 and IgE secretion. The data demonstrate that IL-4 induces small, dense, peripheral blood B cells to secrete not only IgE but also IgG4, which parallells the IL-4-induced IgE and IgG1 secretion by murine B cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Balloon expandable stents facilitate right renal artery reconstruction during complex open aortic aneurysm repair.

Objective Patients undergoing repair of thoracoabdominal (TAA) or visceral aortic segment aneurysms typically require reconstruction of the renal arteries. The use of balloon expandable stents (BES) has been proposed as an alternative to endarterectomy or bypass for renal artery reconstruction (RAR) during open aortic aneurysm repair. We report technical aspects and long-term patency data for this method of right RAR during complex open aortic aneurysm repair. Methods During the interval July 1, 2005 to December 31, 2007, a total of 67 patients underwent right RAR using a BES during concomitant TAA (type I: n=2 [2.9%], type II: n=8 [11.9%], type III: n=13 [19.4%], and type IV: n=22 [32.8%]), juxtarenal (n = 9 [13.4%]) or suprarenal (n = 13 [19.4%]) AAA repair. Indications for RAR were orificial stenosis (n = 21 [31%]) and/or technical considerations referable to the proximal aortic suture line. Patency of the renal stent was evaluated in patients with computed tomography angiography using three-dimensional reconstruction or with abdominal duplex evaluation at follow-up. Results The mean patient age was 75.1 years, 54.4% were male, and 18% of operations were in nonelective circumstances. Twenty-seven (39%) out of 67 patients had a preoperative creatinine level ≥1.4 mg/dL. Two patients (2.9%) developed permanent renal failure postoperatively (neither related to renal artery occlusion). Mean radiologic follow-up was 405 days (11-1281) with 98% stent patency noted. One patient had an early stent occlusion noted at 1 month. An additional patient was noted to have a nonflow-limiting dissection distal to the renal stent, and another was noted to have distal migration of the stent beyond the renal ostium; however, these findings were clinically silent. Conclusions The use of BES during complex open aortic aneurysm repair affords a rapid and durable mode of RAR, obviating the need for endarterectomy and its associated technical complications.
A portrait of modern Texas politics: The regional geography of the 1990 governor's race

The 1990 governor's race in Texas provided a unique opportunity to analyze the state's regional geography. Moderate Democrat Ann Richards' defeat of conservative Republican Clayton Williams permitt...
Local Proper Orthogonal Decomposition based on space vectors clustering

This paper presents a new method to make the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) more accurate for reducing the order of nonlinear systems. POD fails to capture the nonlinear degrees of freedom in highly nonlinear systems because it assumes that data belongs to a linear space. In this paper, the solution space is grouped into clusters where the behavior has significantly different features. Although the clustering idea is not new, it has been implemented only on snapshots clustering where a snapshot is the solution over the whole space at a particular time. In this paper, we show that clustering the space domain into the same number of clusters is more efficient. We call it space vectors clustering where a space vector is the solution over all times at a particular space location. This result is consistent with the fact that for infinite dimensional systems described by partial differential equations, the huge number of states comes from the discretization of the space domain of the PDE, not the time domain.
Roles of polymerization dynamics, opposed motors, and a tensile element in governing the length of Xenopus extract meiotic spindles

Metaphase spindles assemble to a steady state in length by mechanisms that involve microtubule dynamics and motor proteins, but they are incompletely understood. We found that Xenopus extract spindles recapitulate the length of egg meiosis II spindles, by using mechanisms intrinsic to the spindle. To probe these mechanisms, we perturbed microtubule polymerization dynamics and opposed motor proteins and measured effects on spindle morphology and dynamics. Microtubules were stabilized by hexylene glycol and inhibition of the catastrophe factor mitotic centromere-associated kinesin (MCAK) (a kinesin 13, previously called XKCM) and destabilized by depolymerizing drugs. The opposed motors Eg5 and dynein were inhibited separately and together. Our results are consistent with important roles for polymerization dynamics in regulating spindle length, and for opposed motors in regulating the relative stability of bipolar versus monopolar organization. The response to microtubule destabilization suggests that an unidentified tensile element acts in parallel with these conventional factors, generating spindle shortening force.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF BALANCE THROUGH TIME

We present methods for establishing the amount of reciprocity, transitivity and group balance (a generalization of structural balance) in sociometric structures. These methods are applied to the second time series of sociometric data provided by the Newcomb (1961) study. The amount of reciprocity was above chance levels at the outset and showed no systematic variation thereafter. Transitivity has a very different time scale. It climbed steadily through the first nine weeks and remained stable thereafter. While consistent with chance at the beginning of the study period, it grew to above chance levels at week 3. Group imbalance declined throughout the entire period. The reasons for these different time scales are discussed.
Co-oxidation of xenobiotics: Lipid peroxyl derivatives as mediators of metabolism

Systems which carry out peroxyl-dependent oxidations can serve as activation systems for carcinogenic compounds. Some function via classical peroxidase reactions in which an enzyme-derived oxidant performs the electron abstraction from or oxygen donation to the oxidizable substrate. This mechanism applies to the peroxidative activation of aromatic amines and of the phenolic compound diethylstilbestrol. These classical peroxidase reactions may be initiated by hydrogen peroxide or by organic peroxides, including lipid hydroperoxides. A different mechanism is involved in the oxygenation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and of aflatoxin B1. In these cases the oxidant is a peroxyl radical, and the reaction occurs by the direct, non-enzymatic interaction of the peroxyl radical and the oxidizable substrate. Most peroxyl radicals in biological systems are lipid-derived. The key reaction which distinguishes the peroxyl radical-dependent oxidations from the classical peroxidase reactions is the ability of the former to epoxidize activated carbon-carbon double bonds. The epoxidation of benzo[a]pyrene derivatives has been studied extensively in subcellular and whole cell and tissue systems, and is discussed as a model for this class of reaction. Determining the generality of this activation path and its role in vivo present the major questions to be answered in regard to the importance of these reactions in chemical carcinogenesis.
Coalition Politics: Insurgent Union Political Action Builds Ties Between Labor and the Community

Discussions for revitalizing the labor movement include a frequent call for build ing labor-community coalitions as well as reactivating a more activist brand of electoral politics. This paper illustrates how unions have used aggressive political action to establish lasting coalitions with the community. Our examples draw from the work of the fledgling New Party, Connecticut's Legislative and Electoral Ac tion Program, and the mushrooming living wage movement. Through these new forms of political action unions have begun to redefine their agenda, build bridges to the community, mobilize their membership, and lay the foundation of a broad- based movement for economic democracy.
Simulation Training Improves Resident Performance in Hand-Sewn Vascular and Bowel Anastomoses

Background Surgical training has recently emphasized simulation-based training of core surgical skills and tasks such as bowel and vascular anastomoses. This may increase efficiency of training within the operating room. Objective data regarding the effectiveness of instruction or monitoring progress in simulating vascular and bowel anastomoses are lacking. The aim of this study is to provide subjective and objective assessments of simulation-based training among residents in hand-sewn vascular and bowel anastomoses. Methods Residents received vascular and bowel anastomoses training. Each resident fashioned anastomoses on both cadaveric saphenous veins and small bowel. The residents repeated the anastomoses 1 week later. Performances were assessed subjectively and objectively by questionnaire, operative time, objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) score, and leak pressures of the finished anastomosis. Results Of 14 residents, 12 felt more confident with bowel anastomoses after the laboratory session, and 10 were more confident with vascular anastomoses. For vascular anastomoses, the operating time decreased (15.4 vs 14.2 minutes, p = 0.3), OSATS scores improved (14.9 vs 15.6, p = 0.15), and leak pressures improved (38.9 vs 71.8 psi, p = 0.001) from the first to the second workshop. For bowel anastomoses, the operating time decreased (23 vs 18 minutes, p Discussion After simulation-based training, residents performed vascular and bowel anastomoses more adeptly, quickly, and with a higher quality end product. Laboratory training can effectively improve residents’ ability to perform anastomoses, which may result in increased efficiency of teaching in the operating room.
Improving the performance of ITO thin films by coating PEDOT:PSS

This work studies the effect of PEDOT:PSS on electrical, optical and mechanical properties of ITO glass. Various thickness PEDOT:PSS films are deposited on ITO glass by spin coating. The sheet resistance, transmittance, surface roughness, residual stress, friction, and critical load of the coated specimens are tested in sequence. We find that PEDOT:PSS films not only improve the electric performance but also increase the adhesion of ITO glass. The experimental results show that the PEDOT:PSS film improves the surface roughness and then results in a lower electric resistance. It also increases the adhesion and reduces the residual stress of the ITO films. Furthermore, only 1% transmittance is lost due to the PEDOT:PSS film, showing the potential in the applications of organic photovoltaic cells and light-emitting diodes.
The Rhetoric of Heteroglossia in Flannery O'Connor's "Wise Blood.".

Mikhail Bakhtin's concept of heteroglossia is central to his concept of dialogism and the way discourse achieves meaning. Bakhtin ‘s catalog of kinds of heteroglossia in the novel offers a method for describing the narrative discourse in Flannery O'Connor's Wise Blood, a novel that has evoked disagreement about its quality and its effects. Bakhtin's concept has greater explanatory power than other theories used to explore the rhetorical effects of the novel and the values embodied in its language. In turn, the application of Bakhtin's theory suggests that some kinds of heteroglossia play a larger role in establishing ideology than even Bakhtin claimed.
Inhibition of glutamate uptake in the rostral ventrolateral medulla enhances baroreflex-mediated bradycardia in conscious rats.

Abstract The current investigation tested the hypothesis that inhibition of l -glutamate uptake in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVL) enhances the baroreceptor-mediated heart rate responses. In conscious freely moving rats, unilateral microinjection of the l -glutamate uptake blocker p-chloromercuriphenylsalfonic acid (PCMS, 0.1 nmol) elicited a 45% increase in the baroreflex-mediated bradycardic response tested by i.v. phenylephrine (−2.0 ± 0.1 vs − 2.9 ± 0.2beats/min/mmHg). In the same rats, evidence for the ability of PCMS to inhibit l -glutamate uptake at the site of its microinjection in the RVL was obtained. PCMS microinjected into the RVL did not influence basal blood pressure and heart rate. However, the cardiovascular responses elicited by l -glutamate (5 nmol) microinjected into the RVL were significantly enhanced by PCMS pretreatment. The pressor and bradycardic responses to l -glutamate increased 53% (from 28.3 ± 2.4 to 43.4 ± 4.7mmHg) and 68% (from −59.6 ± 13.1 to −100.0 ± 7.2beats/min), respectively after PCMS. An equal volume of ACSF microinjected into the RVL had no effect on BRS (−2.1 ± 0.2 vs −1.9 ± 0.1beats/min/mmHg), nor on the pressor (29.9 ± 7.4 vs 30.6 ± 4.4mmHg) and bradycardic (−50.3 ± 12.0 vs −43.3 ± 12.0beats/min) responses elicited by l -glutamate. These findings suggest that: (i) glutamatergic pathways in the RVL serve a facilitatory role in processing the baroreceptor information, and (ii) l -glutamate uptake mechanisms exert a restraining influence on BRS and the cardiovascular effect of l -glutamate.
Pasting and rheological behavior of soy protein-based pudding

Abstract Pasting and rheological behavior of pastes made from different commercial soy proteins and starches were investigated for the development of soy protein-based pudding system. Commercial starch Novation ® 2300 and soy protein concentrate Alpha ® 5812 were found to exhibit the most desirable pasting properties. The yield stress values of commercial puddings were in the range of 27.1–59.6 Pa, Consistency index ( K ) values in the range of 6.57–18.63 (Pa s n ) and flow behavior index ( n ) values in the range of 0.4192–0.6558. The K , and n values for soy protein-based puddings were found to be comparable to those for the commercial puddings. During 2 weeks of refrigeration, both G ′ and G ″ increased for all the puddings. Neither water separation nor net syneresis were observed for soy protein-based puddings during 2 weeks of storage at 5 °C. Further adjustments of the formulation that was more comparable to the commercial pudding were achieved.