cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Male-produced postejaculatory 22-kHz vocalizations and the mating behavior of estrous female rats.

The role of male-produced 22-kHz postejaculatory vocalization in the mating patterns of estrous female rats was investigated by monitoring the distance maintained by the females from the male following ejaculation in the presence and absence of these signals. All females were tested with tethered muted males (with and without tape-recorded 22-kHz vocalizations presented after ejaculation) and with tethered intact vocalizing males. Previously demonstrated findings of an increase in preejaculatory darting activity in the presence of intact vocalizing males were confirmed, but no evidence of an effect of postejaculatory vocalizations on the distance that the female maintained from the male was found. Thus, these results do not support the hypothesis that the postejaculatory 22-kHz vocalizations function to influence the female to avoid contact with the male during the postejaculatory refractory period.
343. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Prevents Bone Marrow Derived-Mesenchymal Stem Cell Senescence In Vitro

Currently, adult bone marrow derived-mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is under investigation as a possible alternative for treatment of myocardial infarction. However, the effect of in vitro MSC expansion, which is necessary to generate a sufficient number of cells for injection in vivo, remains unclear. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been reported to prevent stress-induced apoptosis of muscle and endothelial cells and promote their growth. Thus, we examined the hypothesis that in vitro culture could modify the regenerative properties of MSCs and VEGF could protect against these culture-induced alterations. Mouse MSCs were harvested from tibias and femurs using the plastic adherent method, cultured to passage 10, and lysates collected at each passage for western blot analysis with markers for cell cycle inhibition (p16, p27, and p21), apoptosis (p19), and telomere function (telomere repeat binding factor 2, TRF2). Three groups of MSCs at passage 10 were treated with VEGF peptide, infected with retroviral vectors with CMV promoter driving expression of VEGF, or infected with retroviral vectors driving LacZ expression as control. Results demonstrated that in vitro expanded MSCs increased expression of p16 and p27 starting at passage 4 and p21 and p19 at passage 6, as compared to passage 2, indicating changes in cell cycle regulation and apoptosis stimulation. MSCs also exhibited a decrease in TRF2 expression at passage 5, which suggests telomere instability in vitro. In contrast, VEGF-treated MSCs expressed lower p16 and p21 and higher TRF2 than untreated cells, indicating decreased cell senescence and increased telomere function, respectively. Similarly, VEGF retroviral vector- infected MSCs expressed more TRF2 than uninfected or LacZ- infected MSCs. In conclusion, VEGF can protect against senescence of MSCs in culture. Thus, combining VEGF in the form of protein or gene therapy with MSCs may increase their survival in vivo and overall therapeutic effectiveness for myocardial infarction.
Sex differences in stereotyped behavior in the rat

Abstract Neurologically intact female rats exhibited more intense and more prolonged stereotyped behavior in response to 5 mg/kg doses of d-amphetamine than males. They also displayed greater stimulation of activity in response to 1.5 mg/kg doses of the drug. Prior treatment with intrastriatal injections of 6-hydroxydopamine (6HDA) eliminated the sex difference in response to 5 but not to 1.5 mg/kg amphetamine. Neither intact nor 6HDA treated rats differed in the amount of stereotyped behavior elicited by the dopamine agonist apomorphine suggesting that the sex difference in amphetamine-elicited stereotypy is not the result of differences in strial receptor mechanisms. The present results could arise from sex differences in amphetamine uptake and metabolism which have been described recently although other explanations are possible.
A review of the research on conjugal bereavement: Impact on health and efficacy of intervention

Abstract This review of the literature on spousal bereavement centers on several specific topics: prevalence, mortality, morbidity, and predictors of adjustment including intervention. Studies have shown that there is great variation in the pattern of response to this life event. Widows and widowers are at greater risk for physical illness. Men who have lost their spouse have higher mortality rates than nonbereaved controls. The fact that a significant proportion of persons suffer ill health following the death of their spouse has motivated investigators to search for individual or situational variables that would predict adjustment. The variable that has been found to be most consistently predictive of better adjustment is the perception of greater social support. Studies that assess the efficacy of psychotherapy, self-help groups, and widow-to-widow programs have demonstrated a moderate effect in reducing distress and accelerating recovery from loss.
β-Catenin levels influence rapid mechanical responses in osteoblasts

Mechanical loading of bone initiates an anabolic, anticatabolic pattern of response, yet the molecular events involved in mechanical signal transduction are not well understood. Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been recognized in promoting bone anabolism, and application of strain has been shown to induce β-catenin activation. In this work, we have used a preosteoblastic cell line to study the effects of dynamic mechanical strain on β-catenin signaling. We found that mechanical strain caused a rapid, transient accumulation of active β-catenin in the cytoplasm and its translocation to the nucleus. This was followed by up-regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin target genes Wisp1 and Cox2, with peak responses at 4 and 1 h of strain, respectively. The increase of β-catenin was temporally related to the activation of Akt and subsequent inactivation of GSK3β, and caveolin-1 was not required for these molecular events. Application of Dkk-1, which disrupts canonical Wnt/LRP5 signaling, did not block strain-induced nuclear translocation of β-catenin or up-regulation of Wisp1 and Cox2 expression. Conditions that increased basal β-catenin levels, such as lithium chloride treatment or repression of caveolin-1 expression, were shown to enhance the effects of strain. In summary, mechanical strain activates Akt and inactivates GSK3β to allow β-catenin translocation, and Wnt signaling through LRP5 is not required for these strain-mediated responses. Thus, β-catenin serves as both a modulator and effector of mechanical signals in bone cells.
Intravesical therapy for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder: the community practice

Abstract Objectives. To assess how the community urologist employs intravesical therapy in patients with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder because most data on intravesical therapy reflect the experience of major referral centers. Methods. The medical records of 234 consecutive patients with TCC were reviewed. Sixty-nine patients received intravesical treatment before referral. The initial pathologic findings, the indication for treatment (eg, grade and stage, initial versus recurrent tumor), the schedule of intravesical therapy, and the drug selected for each course of treatment were assessed. Results. A total of 139 courses of intravesical treatment were given to 69 patients; thus, the avarage number of courses was 2.02 per patient. The drug used was bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) in 81 (58%), mitomycin C in 34 (24%), thiotepa in 16 (12%), Adriamycin in 4 (3%), and unknown in 4 (3%). Intravesical treatment was given after transurethral resection of the initial tumor in 33 patients; the initial pathologic finding was high grade (ie, grade 3 or carcinoma in situ) and/or Stage T1 in 22, TaG1-G2 in 9, and unknown in 2. One course of treatment was administered to 34 patients (49%) and two or more courses to 35 patients (51%). Eleven patients with TaG1-2 tumors were treated repetitively despite failure, with an average of 3.5 courses per patient; the drug used was BCG in 44%. Nineteen percent of patients received maintenance therapy. Intravesical therapy had to be discontinued in 10 patients because of side effects; 8 patients (12%) developed small contracted bladders and severe irritative symptoms, 3 required cystectomy despite the lack of bladder cancer. Conclusions. Intravesical therapy in community practice conforms with the generally accepted indications for high-grade and T1 disease. However, the use of BCG for low-grade TCC appears to be quite common. Repeated courses may result in significant side effects. We emphasize that excessive treatment should be avoided for low-grade, Ta lesions and BCG reserved for patients with TaG3, carcinoma in situ, or T1 TCC.
Mechanism-based partial inactivation of glutathione S-transferases by nitroglycerin: tyrosine nitration vs sulfhydryl oxidation

Liver glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) are responsible for the detoxification of electrophiles, and specifically for the metabolism of orally administered organic nitrates such as nitroglycerin (NTG). Recent studies showed that reactive nitrogen species produced by tetranitromethane (TNM), peroxynitrite, or the myeloperoxidase/H2O2/nitrite system can inactivate GST. It is not known whether NTG can similarly inactivate liver GSTs, and if shown, by what mechanism(s). We incubated purified GSTs with NTG, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), TNM, or vehicle (5% dextrose, D5W), followed by determination of GST activity. Incubation of GST with NTG and TNM caused significant decreases in GST activity whereas no changes were observed with SNAP or D5W. The relative GST activity (vs preincubation) was 73+/-14% for NTG, 37+/-8% for TNM, 98+/-13% for SNAP, and 98+/-9% for D5W, respectively. Exogenous glutathione (GSH) prevented both NTG- and TNM-induced changes in GST activity, consistent with the observed oxidative modification of GST, such as -SH oxidation and dimerization of oxidized GST. In contrast, NTG and TNM exhibited substantial differences in their ability to nitrate tyrosine (TYR) sites in GST. These results demonstrated that NTG can reduce the activity of its own metabolizing enzyme such as GST and this inhibitory effect of NTG was unlikely to be mediated through NO, as such, since SNAP had no effect on GST activity. The partial inactivation of GST by NTG appeared to involve -SH oxidation, but not TYR nitration. These findings provided the first evidence of mechanism-based protein inactivation by NTG, and may lend insight into the hepatic metabolism of NTG and other organic nitrates after repeated oral exposure.
An accurate sparse matrix based framework for statistical static timing analysis

Statistical Static Timing Analysis has received wide attention recently and emerged as a viable technique for manufacturability analysis. To be useful, however, it is important that the error introduced in SSTA be significantly smaller than the manufacturing variations being modeled. Achieving such accuracy requires careful attention to the delay models and to the algorithms applied. In this paper, we propose a new sparse-matrix based framework for accurate path-based SSTA, motivated by the observation that the number of timing paths in practice is sub-quadratic based on a study of industrial circuits and the ISCAS89 benchmarks. Our sparse-matrix based formulation has the following advantages: (a) It places no restrictions on process parameter distributions; (b) It embeds accurate polynomial-based delay model which takes into account slope propagation naturally; (c) It takes advantage of the matrix sparsity and high performance linear algebra for efficient implementation. Our experimental results are very promising.
Acute cocaine induced deficits in cognitive performance in rhesus macaque monkeys treated with baclofen

Rationale Acute and/or chronic exposure to cocaine can affect cognitive performance, which may influence rate of recovery during treatment.
Parameter identification and modeling of longitudinal aerodynamics

Using a comprehensive flight test database and a parameter identification software program produced at NASA Ames Research Center, a math model of the longitudinal aerodynamics of the Harrier aircraft was formulated. The identification program employed the equation error method using multiple linear regression to estimate the nonlinear parameters. The formulated math model structure adhered closely to aerodynamic and stability/control theory, particularly with regard to compressibility and dynamic manoeuvring. Validation was accomplished by using a three degree-of-freedom nonlinear flight simulator with pilot inputs from flight test data. The simulation models agreed quite well with the measured states. It is important to note that the flight test data used for the validation of the model was not used in the model identification.
SALT LOADING AS A POSSIBLE FACTOR IN THE PRODUCTION OF POTASSIUM DEPLETION, RHABDOMYOLYSIS, AND HEAT INJURY

Abstract The benefits of supplementary salt in unacclimatised people performing physical labour in humid heat are well known: without suitable quantities of salt and water there is a risk of hypertonic dehydration and cardiovascular collapse. Features of potassium depletion, including hypokalaemia, pitressin-resistant polyuria, and possibly rhabdomyolysis, occur in a number of young men with heat injury. Those who seem to constitute a high-risk group are military recruits or football players undergoing training or conditioning in the summer months. Acclimatisation to heat is accompanied by increased aldosterone excretion and an expanded extracellular fluid space. Since salt loading may not suppress aldosterone production in the heat-acclimatising individual, salt loading may well lead to serious potassium depletion. The widespread practice of vigorous salt supplementation in military and athletic training programmes may thus induce significant potassium losses in these individuals. Evidence is presented which suggests that potassium depletion may constitute an important factor in the production of certain forms of injury observed in those undergoing strenuous exertion in hot climates.
The matched pairs problem with exponential variates

Two classes of tests for the hypothesis of bivariate symmetry are studied. For paired exponential survival times (t1j, t2j), the classes of tests are those based on t1j-t2j and those based on log t1j–log t2j. For each class the sign, signed ranks, t and likelihood ratio tests are compared via Pitman's criterion of asymptotic relative efficiency (ARE). For tests based on t1j — t2j, it is found that: (1) the efficacy of the paired t depends on the coefficient of variation (CV) of the pair means, (2) the signed rank test has the same ARE to the sign test as for the usual location problem. For tests based on log t1j — log t2j, the ARE comparisons reduce to the well-known results for the one-sample location problem for samples from a logistic density. Hence, the signed rank test is asymptotically efficient. Furthermore, analyses based on log t1j — log t2j are not complicated by the underlying pairing mechanism.
Effects of dietary cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol on catfish

Abstract In separate feeding trials, channel catfish fingerlings were fed 0, 1000, 4000, 8000, 20,000, 50,000, and 0, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 I.U./kg diet of cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol for 28 weeks. The supplemental requirement for maximal growth was between 1000 and 4000 I.U. of supplemental cholecalciferol/kg diet. At supplemental levels of 1000 I.U./kg diet or less, the growth responses to ergocalciferol were equal to those obtained from equivalent levels of cholecalciferol. However, at higher supplemental levels of ergocalciferol, the weight gains were significantly less than those obtained from 2000 to 20,000 I.U./kg of cholecalciferol. Weight gains were significantly reduced when 50,000 I.U./kg of cholecalciferol were fed. Vertebrae bone ash values were not affected by dietary vitamin D levels. Reduced weight gains and feed efficiency were the only signs of vitamin D deficiency or hypervitaminosis D.
An intelligent CAMAC module for ACNET to GPIB interface

Abstract A number of GPIB-based instruments have been acquired for the antiproton production facility at Fermilab. In order to integrate such instruments into the accelerator control computer network (ACNET), a 68000-based CAMAC module has been designed and produced. ACNET commands and data are converted to ASCII strings by a software package called GAG residing in the module and are then sent from the module to instruments on the GPIB.
Gestalt perspectives on cognitive science and on experimental psychology.

At the 1st author's request, the 2nd author was interviewed on Gestalt psychology's origins and utility for modern experimental psychology. Wertheimer's connections with Gestalt psychologists Max W...
Evidence for increased cardiovascular disease risk in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Purpose of reviewChronic kidney disease is becoming recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Recent publications on cardiovascular disease risk in chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease risk factors in chronic kidney disease and clinical trials for cardiovascular di
The ongoing telmisartan alone and in combination with ramipril global endpoint trial program

Abstract The renin–angiotensin system evolved to maintain volume homeostasis and blood pressure and to prevent ischemia during acute volume loss. But in the present age, these mechanisms are redundant, and the clinical significance of angiotensin II results from its pathologic effects, which are mediated by the angiotensin II type 1 (AT 1 ) receptor. Activation of AT 1 receptors has been linked to pathologic processes that contribute to atherosclerosis and ischemic events, including oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol trafficking, and prothrombotic states. The Ongoing Telmisartan Alone and in Combination with Ramipril Global Endpoint Trial (ONTARGET) program will compare the efficacy of the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) telmisartan, the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor ramipril, and combination therapy with telmisartan plus ramipril for reducing cardiovascular risk. The ARB telmisartan is distinguished by its long duration of action, which compares favorably with some other ARBs and conventional antihypertensives. Ramipril was shown in the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) study to reduce the risk for myocardial infarction (MI) and other cardiovascular events in patients at high risk for cardiovascular events but without heart failure or a low ejection fraction. The ONTARGET program consists of 2 randomized, double-blind, multicenter international trials: a principal trial, ONTARGET, and a parallel trial, Telmisartan Randomized Assessment Study in ACE-I Intolerant Patients with Cardiovascular Disease (TRANSCEND). The treatment arms for the principal ONTARGET study are telmisartan 80 mg, ramipril 10 mg, and combination therapy with telmisartan 80 mg plus ramipril 10 mg; for the parallel study TRANSCEND, the treatment arms are telmisartan 80 mg and placebo. Both trials will assess cardiovascular outcomes in patients at high risk using the same criteria as that of the HOPE study, with a single exception: the TRANSCEND trial will enroll patients who do not tolerate ACE inhibitor treatment. The primary end points in both ONTARGET and TRANSCEND are death caused by cardiovascular disease, acute MI, stroke, and hospitalization because of congestive heart failure. The secondary end points include newly diagnosed heart failure, revascularization, new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus, nephropathy, cognitive decrease and dementia, and newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation; these will be used for hypothesis generation.
Magnetic properties of N,N′-diglycylethylenediamine chelates of nickel(II)☆

Abstract Magnetic susceptibilities of aqueous solutions containing a 1:1 molar ratio of nickel(II) to diglycyclethylenediaminedihydrochloride, H2L2+, were measured as a function of “a” (moles of added base per mole of metal ion). A plot of molar magnetic susceptibilities as a function of “a” indicates stoichiometric conversion of paramagnetic NiL2+ to diamagnetic NiH−2L without the formation of paramagnetic intermediates.
Determination of total 17-hydroxycorticoids in plasma.

A Drenocoptical steroids are presumably secreted as free, unconjugated compounds. Their urinary metabolites, however, have to a major extent undergone conjugation with glucuronic acid or other substances. Conjugation of the free steroids occurs at least in part in the liver and results in compounds with different physical and chemical characteristics. It is clear that studies of variations in adrenocortical secretion should ideally include measurements of both free and conjugated adrenocortical steroids in both blood and urine.
The Physics of Early Nova Spectra

We discuss the physical effects that are important for the formation of the early spectra of novae. Nova atmospheres are optically thick, fast expanding shells with flat density profiles, leading to geometrically very extended atmospheres. We show that the properties of early nova spectra can be understood in terms of this basic model and discuss some important effects that influence the structure and the emitted spectrum of nova atmospheres, e.g., line blanketing, NLTE effects, and the velocity field. The proper modeling of nova atmospheres is discussed and we give some computational details.
EFFICIENT MATERIAL ALLOCATIONS IN HIGH-MIX LOW-VOLUME MANUFACTURING

Today's globalization market drives industries toward increased expectations on lean production and quick response to the customers. These expectations have put industries under pressure to become more agile under highly dynamic market and uncertain manufacturing environment. An efficient material allocation becomes critical due to dynamics and uncertainty in the manufacturing systems. This research addresses the optimization needs for effective material allocations in high-mix low-volume manufacturing. Multi-constraint based genetic algorithm and intelligent simulation are used for efficient material allocation. The proposed effective material allocation is validated through real-world application in electronics manufacturing.
15-Lipoxygenase-1 suppression of colitis-associated colon cancer through inhibition of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway

The IL-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway is a critical signaling pathway for colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-δ, a lipid nuclear receptor, up-regulates IL-6. 15-Lipoxygenase-1 (15-LOX-1), which is crucial to production of lipid signaling mediators to terminate inflammation, down-regulates PPAR-δ. 15-LOX-1 effects on IL-6/STAT3 signaling and CAC tumorigenesis have not been determined. We report that intestinally targeted transgenic 15-LOX-1 expression in mice inhibited azoxymethane- and dextran sodium sulfate-induced CAC, IL-6 expression, STAT3 phosphorylation, and IL-6/STAT3 downstream target (Notch3 and MUC1) expression. 15-LOX-1 down-regulation was associated with IL-6 up-regulation in human colon cancer mucosa. Reexpression of 15-LOX-1 in human colon cancer cells suppressed IL-6 mRNA expression, STAT3 phosphorylation, IL-6 promoter activity, and PPAR-δ mRNA and protein expression. PPAR-δ overexpression in colonic epithelial cells promoted CAC tumorigenesis in mice and increased IL-6 expression and STAT3 phosphorylation, whereas concomitant 15-LOX-1 expression in colonic epithelial cells (15-LOX-1-PPAR-δ-Gut mice) suppressed these effects: the number of tumors per mouse (mean ± sem) was 4.22 ± 0.68 in wild-type littermates, 6.67 ± 0.83 in PPAR-δ-Gut mice (P = 0.026), and 2.25 ± 0.25 in 15-LOX-1-PPAR-δ-Gut mice (P = 0.0006). Identification of 15-LOX-1 suppression of PPAR-δ to inhibit IL-6/STAT3 signaling-driven CAC tumorigenesis provides mechanistic insights that can be used to molecularly target CAC.
Local segmentation of noisy images

Images whose properties are spatially variant must often be processed locally. Statistical techniques may be required to do this if the image is noisy. These may be difficult to apply when local regions are so small that means, variances, and similar quantities are unstable. We demonstrate how a practical statistical segmentation algorithm may be constructed which operates locally and gives satisfactory global results. The size of the local area over which computations are made has an important effect on the segmentation quality.
In vitro maturation of ovine oocytes in a portable incubator

Abstract Immature ovine oocytes were collected from ovaries obtained from an abattoir and assigned to one of three treatment groups for in vitro maturation. For Treatment 1 (T1), oocytes were matured in a conventional incubator, in tissue culture wells in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 and air. Maturation medium consisted of bicarbonate buffered Tissue Culture Medium 199 (TCM199) supplemented with fetal calf serum (FCS), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and penicillin/streptomycin (pen/strep). For Treatment 2 (T2), oocytes were matured in a portable incubator, in plastic tubes containing the same medium as T1. The medium was equilibrated with 5% CO2 and overlayed with oil. For Treatment 3 (T3) oocytes were matured in the portable incubator without CO2 equilibration, in tubes containing HEPES buffered TCM 199 supplemented as in T1. After 24 hours at 39 °C, the percentage of oocytes undergoing normal nuclear maturation was 72.55, 68.14 and 66.96% for T1, T2 and T3, respectively (P >0.05). In a second experiment oocytes were matured in the 3 treatments described, then fertilized in vitro using frozen-thawed ram sperm. Fertilization rates were 44.09, 58.62 and 55.69% for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. T1 and T2 were significantly different (P 0.05). The results of these experiments indicate that maturation, fertilization, and developmental rates of ovine oocytes matured in the portable incubator are similar to those of oocytes matured in a conventional incubator. This technique shows promise for transportation of oocytes to laboratories where abattoirs are not in close proximity, and holds promise for transportation of oocytes from non-domestic animals collected in the field or remote locations, to facilities capable of utilizing and preserving the gametes.
Mere addition and the best of all possible worlds

The quantitative argument against the notion of a best possible world claims that, no matter how many worthwhile lives a world contains, another world contains more and is, other things being equal, better. Parfit's ‘Mere Addition Paradox’ suggests that defenders of this argument must accept his ‘Repugnant Conclusion’: that outcomes containing billions upon billions of lives barely worth living are better than outcomes containing fewer lives of higher quality. Several responses to the Paradox are discussed and rejected as either inadequate or unavailable in a theistic context. The quantitative argument fails if some world is such that addition to it is not possible, i.e., if it is intensively infinite, as Liebniz claimed. If the notion of such a world is incoherent, then no world is quantitatively best and the quantitative argument succeeds, but only at the cost of embracing the Repugnant Conclusion.
The Sky Oracle: immersive flowchart representation for the annexation of Tibet

The Sky Oracle on the University of Florida's Second China Island in Second Life applies an interactive, immersive aesthetic to the representation of structured information in the form of a control-flow diagram (a representation of both information and software). The diagram captures two different time periods in the history of Tibetan annexation, with a two-way branch flow indicating two different perspectives labeled Chinese vs. US. An example of aesthetic computing, this "walk-through" flowchart presents a novel approach for interacting with behavioral information by combining a sense of audio, and visual presence to explore the concept of cognitive dissonance.
Endogenous Angiotensin II-induced p44/42 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Activation Mediates Sodium Appetite but not Thirst or Neurohypophysial Secretion in Male Rats

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system makes a critical contribution to body fluid homeostasis, and abnormalities in this endocrine system have been implicated in certain forms of hypertension. The peptide hormone angiotensin II (AngII) regulates hydromineral homeostasis and blood pressure by acting on both peripheral and brain targets. In the brain, AngII binds to the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) to stimulate thirst, sodium appetite and both arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OT) secretion. The present study used an experimental model of endogenous AngII to examine the role of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) as a signalling mechanism to mediate these responses. Animals were given a combined treatment of furosemide and a low dose of captopril (furo/cap), comprising a diuretic and an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, respectively, to elevate endogenous AngII levels in the brain. Furo/cap induced p44/42 MAPK activation in key brain areas that express AT1R, and this effect was reduced with either a centrally administered AT1R antagonist (irbesartan) or a p44/42 MAPK inhibitor (U0126). Additionally, furo/cap treatment elicited water and sodium intake, and irbesartan markedly reduced both of these behaviours. Central injection of U0126 markedly attenuated furo/cap-induced sodium intake but not water intake. Furthermore, p44/42 MAPK signalling was not necessary for either furo/cap- or exogenous AngII-induced AVP or OT release. Taken together, these results indicate that p44/42 MAPK is required for AngII-induced sodium appetite but not thirst or neurohypophysial secretion. This result may allow for the discovery of more specific downstream targets of p44/42 MAPK to curb sodium appetite, known to exacerbate hypertension, at the same time as leaving thirst and neurohypophysial hormone secretion undisturbed.
Early events in sea urchin metamorphosis, description and analysis†

The larval epithelium of the sea urchin, Lytechinus pictus, consists of squamous cells and bands of columnar epithelial cells bearing cilia. During metamorphosis this tissue undergoes a series of rapid, complex changes. Through the scanning and transmission electron microscope, we describe and analyse these changes. The changes can be divided into three steps. (1) The larval arms bend away from the left side of the larva, exposing the urchin rudiment. Cells which are identical to smooth muscle cells are in a position to bring about this bending. (2) The squamous epithelial cells assume a cuboidal shape. This change in shape results in the collapse of the larval epithelium onto the presumptive aboral surface. These cells possess a subapical band of microfilaments. The cellular shape change but not the bending of the arms is reversibly inhibited by Cytochalasin B. These observations suggest a mechanism for this change. (3) The former lining of the vestibule of the urchin rudiment comes to lie over the collapsed larval tissue and forms the adult epithelium. At this point, after only one hour, the larva has assumed the external shape of an adult sea urchin.
Genesis of the primate neostriatum: [3H]thymidine autoradiographic analysis of the time of neuron origin in the rhesus monkey

The time of neuron origin and the spatio-temporal pattern of neuronal distribution in the caudate nucleus and putamen were examined in autoradiograms from 2- to 5- month-old monkeys that were exposed to a single pulse of [3H]thymidine on various embryonic or early postnatal days. Heavily labeled neurons, representing cells that entered their last cell division at the time of [3H]thymidine injection, were found in both the caudate and putamen in the animals injected between embryonic days 36 and 80, but not in monkeys injected at earlier or later stages. A peak in neuronal proliferation occurs between embryonic days 43 and 50. Thus, all of the neurons that ultimately compose the neostriatum are generated during a 45-day period in the first half of gestation, which lasts 165 days in the Rhesus monkey. Two classes of neurons, distinguished by their size and morphology, were discernible in autoradiograms stained with toluidine blue: small neurons with maximum cell body diameters ranging from 13 to 22 μm and larger cells with maximum diameters of 25–40 μm. The larger cells are generated over the first 7–8 days of striatal neurogenesis, while small cells are produced throughout the entire period. In agreement with previous [3H]thymidine autoradiographic studies in rodents, no spatio-temporal gradient related to the time of neuron origin was found in the primate neostriatum. However, small neurons generated on a given day were usually arranged in scattered clusters which, in a single coronal section, consisted of 5 to over 40 labeled neurons. These isochronously generated cell aggregates may represent a basic structural unit of the neostriatum.
A tooth at the border of two morphogenetic fields

A tooth at the border between two morphogenetic fields (mandibular canine and honing premolar) may become morphologically similar to and/or functionally incorporated with the teeth of either field. In light of this, observations of the morphology and occlusion of female anthropoid C1s from 58 extant species are presented to assess whether and to what extent they exhibit incisor-like form and function. Female C1s in 74% of the taxa observed exhibit well developed incisor-like traits which may reflect field border phenomena. In another 9%, incisor traits are present but they are not examples of field border phenomena. Interspecies variation in female C1 morphology is related to behavior, function, natural selection and phyletic inertia. A selection model, derived from the data, is used to explain C1 sexual dimorphism and the evolution of male and female human canines. The data's relevance to the field vs clone theory debate is also discussed.
The immunopathogenesis of retroviral diseases: No immunophenotypic alterations in T, B, and NK cell subsets in SIVmac239‐challenged rhesus macaques protected by SIVΔnef vaccination

Immunophenotype analysis was used to characterize circulating lymphocyte subset levels in both rhesus monkeys that were chronically infected with SIVmac239 and in those that had resisted SIVmac239 infection as a result of prior vaccination with an attenuated SIV strain. Alterations in T, NK, and B cell subsets were compared with those previously identified in humans chronically infected with HIV [8-11, 14, 22]. The well-known decrease in CD4+ cell levels was observed in the SIVmac239-infected animals. However, these animals had relatively little activation of circulating CD8+ T cells as compared with uninfected monkeys. This contrasts with chronically HIV-infected humans who have substantial activation of circulating CD8+ cells as evidenced by elevated HLA-DR and CD38 antigen expression on CD8+ cells as well as substantially increased percentages and numbers of total CD8+ cells. NK cells of the SIVmac239-infected animals, on the other hand, demonstrated the same changes recently described in HIV-infected humans, i.e., a decrease in circulating percentages and a decreased amount of FcRIII (CD16). B cell percentages were markedly increased in the SIVmac239-infected animals, a finding also noted in some children with HIV infection but not in HIV-infected adults. SIV delta nef-vaccinated/SIVmac239-challenged animals showed none of the immune alterations found in the SIVmac239-infected monkeys, providing further confirmation of lack of SIV disease in these vaccinated animals.
Sequestration, fluorometric detection, and mass spectroscopy analysis of lanthanide ions using surface modified magnetic microspheres for microfluidic manipulation.

Several methods for rapid sequestration, fluorometric detection, and the subsequent mass spectroscopic analysis of lanthanide ions using surface modified polystyrene magnetic microspheres are demonstrated. Mixed-ligand antenna complexes of Eu{sup 3+} in which one of the ligands is attached to the surface of the microspheres have been used as a means for the sequestration, immobilization, and detection of these ions. Using the ion-exchange properties of these microspheres, this scheme has been extended to the detection of nonluminescent ions. The principles of these assays form the basis for operation of a portable microfluidic device for general analytical and nuclear forensics applications and indicate the manner in which the established methods of analytical chemistry, such as liquid-liquid extraction and ion-exchange chromatography, can be adapted for such miniature devices.
The expression and regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase gene differ in macrophages from chickens of different genetic background

It has been previously reported that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages from Cornell K-Strain chickens (B15B15) and a transformed cell line, MQ-NCSU, (broiler origin) produced significantly higher levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA than macrophages isolated from GBI (B13B13) and GB2 (B6B6) chickens. The purpose of this study was to determine the basis of such differential iNOS gene expression and to study the relationship of high or low expression of iNOS mRNA with iNOS enzyme activity in macrophages from GB2 (low iNOS mRNA expresser), K-strain and MQ-NCSU (high iNOS mRNA expressers). The enzyme activity in lysates from LPS-stimulated macrophages was lower in GB2 (range: 23 to 41 microM, P < 0.05) as compared with the K-strain and MQ-NCSU macrophages that exhibited intermediate (range: 27 to 59 microM) and the highest (range: 144 to 217 microM) activity, respectively. Total RNA collected from LPS-treated macrophages at various time-points post-actinomycin D treatment revealed comparable iNOS mRNA levels in MQ-NCSU, GB2, and K-strain macrophages, suggesting that post-transcriptional regulation mechanism(s) do not account for the difference in iNOS mRNA expression. To determine if differences in the transcription rate are the basis of the differential iNOS gene expression, macrophages were stimulated with or without LPS and nuclei-isolated. Inducible NOS mRNA probes were generated and hybridized with immobilized iNOS cDNA (reverse Northern blot). The resulting lumigraph yielded enhanced transcriptional activity from K-strain and MQ-NCSU macrophages whereas this activity was lower in GB2 macrophages. Therefore, these studies suggest that the previously reported genetically-based difference in iNOS mRNA expression further translates into differences in iNOS enzyme activity, and that the iNOS gene in chickens is transcriptionally regulated.
The role of properly structured public-private partnerships in promoting economic development

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to find the characteristics that determine the success of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in promoting economic development and specifically to determine the long- and short-term public involvement. Design/methodology/approach – A grounded theory approach is utilized, involving desk research and a review of the current literature, as well as examining case studies. This reduction in data collection was based on the availability of literature and case studies which can be assimilated to develop theoretically justifiable conclusions. Findings – In less-than-developed countries (LDC), the lack of private investment capital severely hinders economic development. In developed countries it is often high risk factors and very large capital investment that slows economic development. In both cases, an input from the public sector is needed. The findings suggest that government involvement should be time limited, so that to achieve long-term success, a public sector exit s...
Finding a less toxic stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis

Comment on Zappia et al, page [1755][1] Unlike autologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have an innate immune-modulating effect that suppresses autoimmunity without using a chemotherapy preparative regimen. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT
Conservation programs can cut load-growth uncertainty for electric utilities

Abstract Electric utilities face a variety of uncertainties that complicate their long-term planning. Load forecasting models are used to assess the likely range in future load growth as a way to help manage uncertainties. A complementary approach involves implementation of strategies that inherently reduce uncertainty. Conservation programs that improve efficiency of new residential, commercial, and industrial facilities can both provide cost-effective resources and reduce uncertainties associated with future load growth. Because standards and rebates have different effects on consumer efficiency decisions, standards reduce uncertainty more than do rebates.
Filter migration to right heart.

Inferior vena caval filter migration is a rare complication that may occur spontaneously or as the result of guidewire entanglement. When feasible, percutaneous retrieval or repositioning is typically pursued, especially if the filter has migrated to a precarious position, such as into the right heart.
Jonah's Crisis: Commentary on Paper by Avivah Gottlieb Zornberg

In discussing Zornberg's paper, Jonah's Flight, the author uses Zornberg's multifaceted midrashic analysis as a portal to offer an alternative reading of the Jonah text. Using Relational and British Object Relations psychoanalytic theories, the author explores Jonah's state of mind, focusing on his profound despair. Most notably she finds that his despair is indicative of traumatic disappointment stemming from the sense of not being recognized by God, experiencing an acute disconnection. Jonah is then seen as being in crisis: incapable of self-reflection, caught in a dissociated self-state, and unable to inhabit and struggle with his own feelings. The result is alienation from himself, incapacity to feel concern for others and estrangement from God. Using the spiritual writings of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who believes that God is in search of man, the author suggests that it is the need for an intersubjective relationship with God that is at the core of this Biblical story.
Nanoscale Characterisation of Salivary Pellicle

Salivary pellicle is an organic biofilm formed by the physisorption of proteins and carbohydrates onto the surface of dental enamel exposed to the oral environment. The pellicle has several key roles in oral physiology including lubrication and reduction of friction between teeth during mastication, as well as chemical protection of the enamel against acidic solutions. However, pellicle proteins are known to react with dietary compounds to cause extrinsic staining on the tooth surface. In this study, nanoindentation and AFM have been used in vitro to examine the acquired salivary pellicle formed in vivo on dental enamel. The mechanical properties, growth, structure and morphology of pellicle grown in vivo on human enamel surfaces have been analysed. In addition, the effects of dietary agents such as polyphenols on the pellicle's morphology and properties have been studied. It was found that initial adsorption of proteins on the enamel surface occurred within 30 seconds of exposure to the oral cavity, with full growth achieved within 2 hours. Differences in the properties of the pellicles such as surface adhesion, and time dependent effects due to polyphenol interaction were measured using nanoindentation. It was seen that the polyphenol interaction has a significant effect on these properties. These results suggest that the stained pellicle is mechanically stiffer, but also less viscous and more fluid like. This could explain why traditional tooth brushing techniques do not efficiently remove this layer.
The Social System in Outdoor Adventure Education Programs

Many components of the social system interact with one another to produce group-level behavior that determines the functionality of the small group in outdoor adventure education (OAE). This article synthesizes the contemporary literature and theory regarding eight aspects of the OAE social system: (a) Macro Contextual Factors, (b) Student Factors, (c) Instructor Factors, (d) Goals, (e) Group Factors, (f) Group Outcomes, (g) Group Dependent Individual Outcomes, and (h) Time. Directions for future research and implications for OAE are discussed.
Receive antenna selection for closely-spaced antennas with mutual coupling

We investigate the achievable rate of receive antenna selection MIMO systems in the presence of mutual coupling and spatial correlation. For that, we assume the antenna array to consist of dipole antennas placed side-by-side in a linear pattern and in a very limited physical space. In a first step, we will assume perfect channel state information at the receiver side only and a negligible training overhead compared with the payload. We will demonstrate that in contrast to what might be expected based on results for cases without mutual coupling, MIMO receive antenna selection can achieve higher data rates than the system using all antennas provided that the total number of receive antennas is larger than a critical value that we will further discuss. We then propose an optimal antenna selection processing that ensures rate maximization regardless of the number of antennas used. In a later step, we will address the impact of training overhead on the system achievable rate when the training overhead is considerable. We will show that such a rate is reduced dramatically due to the large amount of training overhead arising from the presence of mutual coupling. To overcome this problem, we will thus propose a novel channel estimation method, which reduces the training overhead greatly and improves the system achievable rate performance.
Attachment in adolescence: A move to the level of emotion regulation:

The early adolescent's state of mind in the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) is more closely linked to social interactions with peers, who are unlikely to serve as attachment figures, than it is to (i) qualities of the adolescent's interactions with parents, (ii) the AAI of the adolescent's mother, or (iii) the adolescent's prior Strange Situation behavior. This unexpected finding suggests the value of reconceptualizing AAI autonomy/security as a marker of the adolescent's capacity for emotion regulation in social interactions. Supporting this, we note that the AAI was originally validated not as a marker of attachment experiences or expectations with one's caregivers, but as a predictor of caregiving capacity sufficient to produce secure offspring. As such, the AAI may be fruitfully viewed as primarily assessing social emotion regulation capacities that support both strong caregiving skills and strong skills relating with peers.
Securing information assets: The great information game

In today's competitive environment, organizations succeed or fail based on how well they manage information. To address this reality, organizations spend millions, if not billions, on securing their information advantages. New information technologies and methodologies are adopted, while old ones are dismantled or upgraded. To win, the information manager must constantly seek to outperform his or her competition. In this article the author asks how he or she does it? Perhaps by acquiring the best new technologies, hiring the most intelligent information professionals, and continuously keeping a watchful eye on the future. But, he asks, does having the best information, the best information systems, and the best information professionals, really pay off? Is there victory in sight? Or, is this just a continuous game with no clear winners?