cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elevation of Intracellular cAMP Inhibits RhoA Activation and Integrin-dependent Leukocyte Adhesion Induced by Chemoattractants

Chemoattractant receptors of the serpentine, heterotrimeric Gαi protein-linked family can activate leukocyte integrins and in this role regulate leukocyte traffic and cell-cell interactions in immune and inflammatory responses. Using a mouse lymphoid cell line transfected with human formyl peptide or interleukin-8 receptors and normal human neutrophils as models, we show that cAMP functions as a gating element on the chemoattractant-induced rho-dependent signaling pathway leading to leukocyte integrin activation and adhesion. cAMP, acting through protein kinase A, inhibits chemoattractant-triggered integrin-dependent leukocyte adhesion. cAMP also prevents guanine nucleotide exchange on RhoA, a small GTP-binding protein of the rho subfamily, which is activated in seconds by chemoattractants. In contrast, chemoattractant-triggered intracellular calcium elevation is unaffected by cAMP, and cAMP has no effect on rho-dependent adhesion and RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange triggered through the independent protein kinase C pathway. These data suggest that cAMP-induced inhibition of rho activation may be responsible for the anti-adhesive effect of cAMP and may contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of cAMP elevating agonists and drugs. Moreover, the findings extend the concept of cyclic nucleotide gating as a broadly important mechanism in the regulation of intracellular signaling pathways and the cellular activities they control.
ABO (H) cell surface antigens in benign and malignant parotid neoplasms.

Twenty-two inflammatory, benign, or malignant parotid lesions were studied by means of the specific red cell adherence test (SRCA), a modification of the Coombs' mixed cell agglutination reaction. In 22 normal parotid tissues the acinar structures were devoid of red cell agglutination, but it was present in ductal epithelium. Findings were similar in 2 cases of parotitis, 11 benign mixed tumors, and 1 malignant mixed tumor. All lacked red cell agglutination in areas of neoplastic change. Benign Warthin's tumors (4 cases) demonstrated antigenicity in the co-lumnar epithelial component of the tumor, but lacked red cell agglutination in areas of the lymphoid component. One malignant Warthin's tumor showed agglutination in areas of normal columnar epithelium but not in areas of malignant dedifferentiation. Undifferentiated carcinoma (1 case) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (2 cases) did not possess detectable ABO (H) antigens in neoplastic areas of the gland. The absence of ABO antigens in normal acinar glands supports their suggested myoepithelial or mesenchymal derivation, as the absence of antigen in benign and malignant mixed tumors supports their proposed mesenchymal derivation. Ductular epithelium and the epithelial components of benign Warthin's tumors have ABO (H) antigens, while the loss of antigen in the epithelial portion of the malignant Warthin's tumor is characteristic of epithelial neoplastic dedifferentiation. Loss of antigen in adenoid cystic and undifferentiated carcinomas of the parotid supports the concept that antigen is absent in epithelially derived malignant neoplasms.
Art and Delusion: Unreality in Art School.

I teach painting in a Master of Fine Arts program at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Typically, the students have anywhere from $60,000 to $100,000 of student loan debt that by law must be repaid. Because of mismanagement of the college’s finances in the 1970s and 1980s (there is practically no endowment); only a pittance is available for graduate scholarships. Most students have to pay the entire $29,900 yearly tuition. What do they get for their money? Or, to pose the question in a more general way, what is the value of an MFA degree? The answer is complicated, for it involves among other things student expectations, educational trends, a changing art world, and the state of the U.S. economy. Each fall semester I ask my students why they have come to Pratt and what they want to do when they graduate. The common answer is to develop as artists and find a commercial gallery to show and sell their work. Some want the MFA degree so they can teach on a college level. I look at these young adults and see hope and ambition. For many, the two years they spend in school will be the best years of their lives. They can experiment with media, don multiple styles, and hone their message—all in an extraordinarily supportive environment that keeps the outside world at bay. They will finish up with a thesis exhibition showcasing their best work. At their openings they will beam with pride and accept the accolades of the faculty. And then, after they’ve earned their diplomas, most will fail to have successful careers as artists. Acad. Quest. (2010) 23:117–124 DOI 10.1007/s12129-009-9143-5
Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor therapy and fetal risk: a systematic literature review

Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (anti-TNFs) are effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) recalcitrant to conventional medical therapy. As the peak incidence of IBD overlaps with the prime reproductive years, it is crucial to establish pharmacologic regimens for women of childbearing age that achieve effective disease control without posing significant fetal harm. A systematic literature review was performed to identify all human studies with birth outcomes data after maternal exposure to infliximab, adalimumab, or certolizumab pegol within 3 mo of conception or during any trimester of pregnancy. Live births, spontaneous abortions or stillbirths, preterm or premature births, low birth weight or small for gestational age infants, and congenital abnormalities were recorded. Fifty selected references identified 472 pregnancy exposures. The subsequent review includes general information regarding anti-TNF therapy in pregnancy followed by a summary of our findings. The benefits of biologic modalities in optimizing disease control during pregnancy must be weighed against the potential toxicity of drug exposure on the developing fetus. Although promising overall, there is insufficient evidence to prove absolute safety for use of anti-TNFs during pregnancy given the limitations of available data and lack of controlled trials.
Effect of Carbon Tetrachloride on Hepatic Transport of Ouabain in Developing Rats

SummaryCC14 depressed hepatic excretory function in adult and developing rats. In this regard, plasma ouabain concentrations were significantly higher and biliary (intestinal) ouabain was significantly lower in the treated animals. Of particular interest was the observation that hepatic ouabain was significantly lower than controls in CCI4 treated young rats (decreased uptake into liver), but significantly higher than controls in treated older rats (decreased secretion from liver into bile). These results suggest that the “site” of altered biliary function following CCI4-induced liver damage is age dependent.This investigation was supported in part by National Institute of Health Grant ES00560. S.Z.C. was supported by a predoctoral fellowship from the Eli Lilly Co. The authors acknowledge the technical assistance of Ms. Harriett Sherman.
Science, religion, and the fossils at Big Bone Lick

In 1739, Baron de Longueiul, a pioneer explorer of the Ohio River Valley, discovered a spectacular phenomenon: in an area surrounding a salt spring in northern Kentucky, the physical remains of extinct Pleistocene mammals protruded from the ground. The site soon became known as Big Bone Lick and attracted the attention of both American and European scientists. The idea of extinction posed a difficult problem for the scientific community during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. An examination of a fossilized shark discovered in Italy in 1666 led Niels Stensen and Robert Hooke to theorize that fossils were of organic origin. While the Stensen-Hooke position was logical from an anatomical point of view, it threatened to unravel the cosmology of both Christian and deist.
Propagation constant determination in microwave fixture de-embedding procedure

An improper choice of dimensions for the standards used in the microwave de-embedding procedure will cause errors in the determination of the propagation constant. This leads to unrealistic values for the attenuation constant, which in turn causes errors in the de-embedded results. Proper selection of dimensions is made to minimize such errors. Physically realistic values are obtained with this selection. >
A Further Study of Oscillatory Circuits Having Periodically Varying Parameters

Abstract This paper presents the results of an extensive investigation of a circuit containing resistance, inductance, and a periodically varying capacitance. The problem is important in connection with: frequency modulation in radio transmitters; warble tone generation in electro-acoustics; certain systems in mechanical and acoustical engineering where the elastance or mass parameter varies periodically; and, possible other uses of the circuit in both communications and power engineering as its properties become better understood. The oscillations of this circuit may be classified as: (1) natural ; (2) spontaneous ; and (3) forced . Type (I) is the usual exponentially decaying oscillation; type (z) is an oscillation induced by the periodic capacitance variation and has either an exponentially increasing amplitude or a constant one; type (3) is the steady state current produced by an impressed a.-c. voltage. All three types of oscillations were thoroughly explored with the result that several new phenomena were observed and quantitative data were obtained for a wide range of circuit conditions. In some instances, the method used was mathematical. One result secured in this way was the development of a method for calculating the steady state current forced by an a.-c. voltage. Machine solutions were made with the M. I. T. Differential Analyzer and a series of curves of the instantaneous values of charge and current were obtained for representative circuit adjustments. An experimental investigation of the behavior of actual circuits was also made. Striking results were: the generation of electrical power in excess of one kilowatt by means of spontaneous oscillations; the discovery of the properties of quasi-resonance and of phase sensitivity in varying parameter circuits. Several applications of these circuit properties to electrical machinery are discussed.
Fine structural changes in cat L7 ventral horn neurones after chronic sub LD50 DFP

The fine structural changes in the ventral anterior horn of spinal segment L7, have been studied in adult cats after single and chronic sub LD50 (0.1 to 0.75 mg/kg SC with a cumulative range of 1.3 mg/kg to 10.5 mg/kg) low dose exposure to diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP). Only the motoneurons of the chronically treated animals show an increase in the number of lysosomes, neurofilaments and vesicle-like structures. A large number of coated vesicles is observed within axons and axon terminals of both acute and chronically treated animals. Morphological evidence of axon and terminal degeneration is seen only in chronically treated animals. The present study shows that chronic sub LD50 low dose administration of DFP over periods from 5 to 21 days results in degenerative changes of presynaptic terminals and axons, with the severity of the changes being dependent on dose and duration of treatment. The data are interpreted by comparison with single high dose exposure reported in the literature with a discussion of acute and delayed neurotoxic effects of DFP, on the central nervous system.
On the viscosity of a concentrated suspension of solid spheres

Abstract An asymptotic technique is used to derive the functional dependence of effective viscosity on concentration for a suspension of uniform solid spheres, in the limit as concentration approaches its maximum value. This result, containing no empirical constants, is intended to complement the classical Einstein formula which is valid only at infinite dilution. Good agreement is found between the asymptotic solution and available data, provided that the maximum concentration is determined from the data themselves.
Assessing depressional wetland quantity and quality using a probabilistic sampling design in the Redwood River watershed, Minnesota, USA

Accurate characterization of wetland condition at a regional or watershed scale requires an assessment that includes both a quantity and quality component. A probabilistic sampling design can facilitate the implementation of such assessments through its ability to extrapolate results from a random sample of wetlands to the entire population of wetlands over a large geographic area. In 2003 an assessment of the quantity and quality of depressional wetlands in the Redwood River watershed was conducted using a probabilistic sampling design. The number and cumulative area of depressional wetlands in the watershed was estimated relative to the National Wetland Inventory (NWI) by evaluating 146 randomly selected sites. However, limitations of the study design only allowed quantification of wetland loss over the ∼20-year period (c.1980–2003) following the acquisition of aerial imagery used to produce the NWI in this region. Wetland quality was assessed in 40 randomly selected sample sites using plant and macroinvertebrate indices of biological integrity (IBI). Depressional wetlands included in the NWI have experienced an estimated 56% reduction in number, equivalent to a 21% decrease in area, in the watershed over the last 20 years. Of the remaining wetland area, an estimated 91% was impaired. Thus, management practices with the goal of increasing suitable habitat for native wetland plant and animal communities should focus on restoration of drained wetlands as well as improvement of existing wetlands to maximize outcomes.
Bodies of Thought. Science, Religion and the Soul in the Early Enlightenment

Ann Thomson, (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008), 320 pp., £60.00 (hb), ISBN 13: 978‐0‐19‐923619‐0 This is a useful study of late seventeenth and eighteenth‐century materialism, and particularl...
SPR executive committee meeting report

The executive committee of the Solar-Planetary Relationships Section met the afternoon of May 7, just before the AGU 1989 Spring Meeting began. The purpose of the meeting was for members of the different SPR and Union committees, editors and officers to exchange information on issues of concern to the section and to plan for the future. It was announced that R. J. Walker had just been appointed chairman of the AGU Information Technology Committee. Members who have suggestions about how AGU should proceed in this area may contact him directly.
Modeling of queuing networks with finite capacity queues

A model is presented for the blocking phenomena associated with queuing networks with finite capacity queues. The basic idea behind the model is the calculation of the average length of time the cells are in the “blocked” state, i.e., their downstream queue is filled to capacity. The model was tested and verified against an actual simulation for a simple network. Excellent agreement for the average quantities is demonstrated between the model and the simulation for both the downstream and upstream effects resulting from blocking. The model is quite general in its applicability to M/M/c queuing networks and is casy to implement.
Effect of Dispersants on the Rheological Behavior of Zirconia-Wax Suspensions

Three types of fatty acids-namely, stearic acid, oleic acid, and 12-hydroxystearic acid-were used as dispersants for stabilization of highly concentrated zirconia-wax suspensions. Rheological properties such as viscosity and yield stress of the suspensions were determined over a temperature range of 65°-85°C. Experimental results indicated that better suspension stabilization was achieved when the 12-hydroxystearic acid was used. Adsorption behavior revealed a greater affinity at the solid/liquid interface that occurred for the 12-hydroxystearic acid than for stearic acid or oleic acid. This observation suggests that the adsorption of 12-hydroxystearic acid may lead to a better packing (or surface concentration) of the acid molecules onto the solid surface than others and also results in a better suspension fluidity and processability. Attractive interparticle interaction was estimated quantitatively by using the Vold model and resulting analysis showed a linear correlation between the yield stress and the attractive potential for the suspensions.
High-performance liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous detection of malonaldehyde, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acetone and propionaldehyde to monitor the oxidative stress in heart.

Abstract Lipid peroxidation (LPO) is the oxidative deterioration of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) with the production of lipid hydroperoxides, cyclic peroxides, cyclic endoperoxides, and finally fragmentation to ketones and aldehydes (including malonaldehyde, MDA). Estimation of LPO through MDA formation measured by assaying thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactive products remains the method of choice to study the development of oxidative stress in tissues. However, MDA estimation by TBA reactive products is non-specific and often gives erroneous results. In this report we describe a method using high-performance liquid chromatographic separation to estimate MDA, formaldehyde (FDA), acetaldehyde (ADA), acetone, and propionaldehyde (PDA), the degradation products of oxygen-derived free radicals (ODFR) and PUFA, as presumptive markers for LPO. Oxidative stress was induced in the tissue by perfusing an isolated rat heart with hydroxyl radical generating system (xanthine + xanthine oxidase + FeCl3 + EDTA). The coronary effluents were collected, derivatized with 2,4-dinitrophenyl-hydrazine (DNPH), and extracted with pentane. Aliquots of 25 μl in acetonitrile were injected onto a Beckman Ultrasphere C18 (3 μm) column. The products were eluted isocratically with a mobile phase containing acetonitrile-water-acetic acid (40:60:0.1, v/v/v), measured at three different wavelengths (307, 325 and 356 nm) using a Waters M-490 multichannel UV detector and collected for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The peaks were identified by cochromatography with DNPH derivatives of authentic standards, peak addition, UV pattern of absorption at the three wavelengths, and by GC-MS. The retention items of MDA, FDA, ADA, acetone, and PDA were 5.3, 6.6, 10.3, 16.5, and 20.5 min, respectively. The results of our study indicated progressive increase of all five lipid metabolites as a function of the duration of ODFR perfusion. Hydroxyl radical scavengers, superoxide dismutase plus catalase, completely inhibited the formation of these lipid metabolites, demonstrating that the release of lipid metabolites from the isolated heart was indeed in response to oxidative stress. Since MDA, FDA, ADA, acetone, and PDA are the products of ODFR-PUFA interactions, this method allows proper estimation of LPO which monitors the oxidative stress developed during the reperfusion of ischemic myocardium.
Myelin-associated glycoprotein in myelin and expressed by Schwann cells inhibits axonal regeneration and branching.

The mammalian CNS does not regenerate after injury due largely to myelin-specific inhibitors of axonal growth. The PNS, however, does regenerate once myelin is cleared and myelin proteins are down-regulated by Schwann cells. Myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), a sialic acid binding protein, is a potent inhibitor of neurite outgrowth when presented to neurons in culture. Here, we present additional evidence that strongly supports the suggestion that MAG contributes to the overall inhibitory properties of myelin. When myelin from MAG-/- mice is used as a substrate, axonal length is 100 and 60% longer for neonatal cerebellar and older DRG neurons, respectively, compared to MAG+/+ myelin. The converse is true for neurites from neonatal DRG neurons, which are twice as long on MAG+/+ relative to MAG-/- myelin, consistent with MAG's dual role of promoting axonal growth from neonatal DRG neurons but inhibiting growth in older DRG and all other postnatal neurons examined. Furthermore, desialylating neurons reverses inhibition by CNS myelin by 45%. Contrary to previous reports, under these conditions PNS myelin is also inhibitory for axonal regeneration. Importantly, results using PNS MAG-/- myelin as a substrate suggest that MAG contributes to this inhibition. Finally, when Schwann cells not expressing MAG and permissive for axonal growth are induced to express MAG by retroviral infection, not only is axonal outgrowth greatly inhibited by these cells but so also is neurite branching. This suggests for the first time that MAG not only affects axonal regeneration but may also play a role in the control of axonal sprouting.
A generalized method for optimization of active noise controllers in three-dimensional spaces

In this investigation, the formulation of an optimal active noise controller for harmonic, enclosed sound fields is derived using an indirect boundary element method. The optimal active noise controller is defined as the volume velocity secondary source strengths which minimize the sound pressure level at a number of discrete interior locations. In addition, the formulation of an optimal active noise controller which minimizes the free field power radiated from a generalized, distributed noise source is presented. Representative results are provided for each formulation. For the enclosure problem, results are given for global control, local control, and passive wall treatments using a rectangular cavity. For the free field radiation problem, the effects of secondary source location and quantity on active noise controller performance are investigated. The relative merits of each formulation are discussed.
CYTOCHEMISTRY OF PHOSPHATASES OF THE SARCOPLASMIC RETICULUM : I. Biochemical Studies

A microsomal fraction was isolated from rabbit psoas muscle by a modification of Muscatello's method. The fraction contained a Mg-dependent ATPase which had a pH optimum of 7.5. Activity was further stimulated by addition of Na or K or other monovalent cations to the reaction mixture, but synergistic activation by Na and K, and ouabain inhibition, could not be demonstrated. The enzyme hydrolyzed only ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and ITP (inosine triphosphate) at appreciable rates, but Na or K stimulated activity only when ATP was used as substrate. Activity was inhibited by Ca and by low concentrations of Na deoxycholate, and was sensitive to inhibition by thiol group reagents. The enzyme could be distinguished from another enzyme, also present in the fraction, which was Ca-activated, and which exhibited a wider substrate specificity, different pH activation characteristics, lower specific activity, lack of stimulation by Na or K, and less sensitivity to inhibition by deoxycholate and by thiol group reagents. These findings formed the basis for demonstration of the Mg-dependent ATPase in situ.
Scattered circular polarization Raman optical activity

Abstract The first measurements of scattered circular polarization (SCP) Raman optical activity (ROA) are reported in which the degree of circular polarization of the scattered light is determined. The SCP ROA spectra are relatively simple to measure and confirm theoretical predictions of their relation to incident circular polarization (ICP) ROA, the only previously measured form of ROA.
The pathophysiology of labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inflammatory response within the membranous inner ear structures in response to infection. It is a generally short-lived minor illness that has the potential to cause temporary or permanent disablement in terms of hearing loss. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, pain in the affected ear, vertigo, and fever. Subsequently, it is an illness commonly diagnosed by health care practitioners working in the community setting. Understanding the pathophysiological development and the inflammatory and immune response to such an illness enables the clinician to comprehend the underlying processes of the presenting signs and symptoms, and to treat accordingly.
The Impact of Positive and Negative Item Stems on the Validity of a Computer Anxiety Scale

For a sample of 270 high school students, the differences between positive and negative item stems are studied using three forms of a computer anxiety scale (original scale, negated items, and mixed stems) to ascertain if the items for each form tended to define a single construct or two different constructs. Internal-consistency estimates of reliability for each form yielded alpha coefficients which ranged from .73 for the mixed-stem format to .95 for the original format. Confirmatory factor analysis (LISREL VI) was employed to test the hypothesis that, for high school students, negative and positive item stems are indicative of different latent variables. The findings tended to support the hypothesis and were consistent with those obtained by other researchers (Benson, 1987 Benson and Hocevar, 1985; Schmitt and Stults, 1985). It was concluded that one should view results with caution when the instrument includes mixed stems, as the two sets of items do not appear to define a single construct.
Effect of Ethanol and Acetaldehyde on Liver and Brain Monoamine Oxidase

Maynard and Schenker1 have reported that monoamine oxidase from mouse liver is inhibited by ethanol in vitro; however, these authors could not obtain similar inhibition of monoamine oxidase of mouse brain. The fact that the liver of mammals contains alcohol dehydrogenase suggests that the inhibition of liver monoamine oxidase may occur via the transformation of ethanol to the reactive acetaldehyde, which is responsible for the observed effects. Further, the level of inhibition observed by Maynard and Schenker is low and requires what amounts to be substrate concentrations of ethanol (0.022 M–0.087 M). The absence, or a low level, of alcohol dehydrogenase in brain would account for the failure to observe inhibition of monoamine oxidase from this source by ethanol.
Novel thermoelectric materials

Abstract Several new approaches to the design of improved thermoelectric materials have stimulated a resurgence of interest in this very old field. Within the past two years materials have been developed that validated one or more of these new ideas. Perhaps the most significant development is the concept and realization of materials that conduct electricity like a crystalline solid but heat like a glass. In these materials a weakly bound atom or molecule ‘rattler’ is used to lower the thermal conductivity of the solid without severely affecting electronic conduction, thus leading to improved thermoelectric efficiency.
Location of iron and porphyrin in the liver in porphyria cutanea tarda

Summary Porphyrin and iron distributions in the liver biopsies of patients with Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) were investigated by comparison of composite photographs from fluorescence microscope and after iron stain. Three distinct areas are visible: 1. red fluorescent areas with porphyrins; 2. blue areas corresponding to iron; 3. areas with neither iron nor porphyrin. The areas with iron or porphyrin do not overlap, therefore, this experiment indicates lack of direct correlation between iron and porphyrin distribution in livers of PCT patients.
TEM Annular Objective Apertures Fabricated by FIB

Annular objective transmission electron microscope (TEM) apertures have been used in the past for different reasons such as texture determination in crystalline samples (selected-zone dark-field electron microscopy) [1,2] and contrast improvement [1,3]. Annular apertures allow electrons to pass through given symmetric zones within the objective lens of the microscope. One can select zones with a large semi-angle (approximately 50 mrad) in which electron scattering is dominated by Rutherford scattering [4]. The electron scattering cross sections for this mechanism are proportional to Z (with Z being the atomic number) and thus the recorded signal amplifies chemical differences. So far, fabrication of such apertures has been hindered because of their small dimensions. However, due to the relative ease of aperture fabrication using a focused ion beam (FIB) system, a variety of novel and smaller aperture designs becomes achievable.
THERMAL EFFECTS ON THE ENERGETICS OF LIZARD EMBRYOS: IMPLICATIONS FOR HATCHLING PHENOTYPES

In many ectotherms, incubation temperature has profound effects on the timing of hatching and size of hatchlings, but the mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly understood. We studied the energetics of embryonic development and growth in the lizard Sceloporus undulatus. Eggs were incubated at six constant temperatures, ranging from 288 to 388C, and embryonic metabolism, incubation period, and body size at hatching were determined. The duration of embryonic development decreased significantly from 55 da t 28 8 to 40 da t 32 8C but did not differ significantly between 328 and 348C. Embryos incubated at temperatures above 348C did not survive to hatching. Metabolic rate at specific stages of development (percentage of total incubation period) did not differ among embryos incubated at 288 ,3 0 8, and 348C. As a result, the total amount of energy expended during the incubation period at 288C (2.0 kJ) was greater than that at 308-348C (1.7-1.8 kJ). However, the difference in energy expenditure did not affect body size at hatching; neither snout-vent length nor body mass varied significantly with incubation temperature, and both were the same as those of hatchlings collected in the field. Thus, there was no apparent trade-off between hatching date and body size of lizards at hatching. In a natural population in New Jersey, USA, we quantified soil temperatures at potential nesting sites and studied the thermoregulatory behavior of gravid females to examine the possible consequences of female behavior for hatchling phenotypes. In females and at potential nest sites, embryos would experience temperatures that resulted in high mortality in the laboratory experiment ( .328C). Gravid females had a field body temperature of 33.98C (95% CI 5 0.88C) and selected a body temperature of 33.38C (95% CI 5 1.08C) when placed in thermal gradients in the laboratory. Soil temperatures rose above 328C for several hours each day. Embryos must be able to survive intermittent exposure to tem- peratures that were lethal under conditions of chronic exposure in the laboratory. Selection of relatively high body temperatures by gravid females, coupled with tolerance of acute exposure to relatively high soil temperatures, would reduce the incubation period without a concomitant reduction in body size at hatching.
The use of antibodies against the IL-2 receptor in transplantation.

Abstract Humanized monoclonal antibodies that recognize the α chain of the IL-2 receptor (e.g. daclizumab) have been used to prevent allograft rejection, since this chain is expressed by T cells participating in allograft rejection but not by resting T cells. In a randomized trial, when added to standard cyclosporin-based immunosuppression, daclizumab significantly reduced the frequency of acute rejection of renal transplants.
Guanylyl cyclase and protein kinase G mediate nitric oxide suppression of 5-lipoxygenase metabolism in rat alveolar macrophages

We have previously demonstrated that exogenous nitric oxide (NO) directly inhibits alveolar macrophage (AM) cell-free activity of the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), thereby inhibiting metabolism of arachidonic acid to the important proinflammatory lipid mediators, leukotrienes (LT). Here, we explored the possibility that NO indirectly inhibited AM LT synthesis via activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) in rat AM. The selective sGC inhibitor, LY83583, abrogated the suppression of cellular LT synthesis elicited by either exogenous or endogenous NO. A non-NO-dependent activator of sGC, YC-1, also inhibited macrophage LT synthesis. We next determined if sGC-mediated suppression of AM LT synthesis was dependent on protein kinase G (cGK). The selective cGK inhibitor, KT5823, reversed the suppression of cellular 5-LO metabolism following treatment with exogenous NO and YC-1. cGK1 activation resulted in phosphorylation of 5-LO. In contrast to peritoneal macrophages, AM exhibited localization of sGC, cGK1 and cGKII to the cell nucleus. In summary, in addition to its direct effects, NO-induced suppression of 5-LO action can be mediated indirectly through activation of the sGC and cGK pathways in AM. The nuclear localization of enzymes sGC, CGK1 and cGKII in the AM, which also demonstrates preferential nuclear 5-LO expression, may confer tighter regulation of LT synthesis.
On the functional diversity of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase: biochemical mechanisms and regulatory control.

Abstract Background New studies provide evidence that glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is not simply a classical glycolytic protein of little interest. Instead, it is a multifunctional protein with significant activity in a number of fundamental cell pathways. GAPDH is a highly conserved gene and protein, with a single mRNA transcribed from a unique gene. Control mechanisms must exist which regulate its functional diversity. Scope of review This review focuses on new, timely studies defining not only its diverse activities but also those which define the regulatory mechanisms through which those functions may be controlled. The reader is referred to the author's prior review for the consideration of past reports which first indicated GAPDH multiple activities (Sirover, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1432 (1999) 159–184.) Conclusions These investigations demonstrate fundamental roles of GAPDH in vivo, dynamic changes in its subcellular localization, and the importance of posttranslational modifications as well as protein:protein interactions as regulatory control mechanisms. General significance GAPDH is the prototype “moonlighting” protein which exhibits activities distinct from their classically identified functions. Their participation in diverse cell pathways is essential. Regulatory mechanisms exist which control those diverse activities as well as changes in their subcellular localization as a consequence of those new functions.
Nominal bargaining power, selection protocol, and discounting in legislative bargaining

The effects of changes in nominal bargaining power, the proposal selection rule and discounting in legislative bargaining outcomes are investigated. The comparative static predictions of the Baron-Ferejohn (1989) model better organize behavior than does Gamson’s Law (1961). However, proposer power is not nearly as strong as predicted under Baron-Ferejohn as coalition partners refuse to take the small shares given by the continuation value of the game in favor of a behavioral focal point. Regression results similar to those employed in Þeld data provide some support for Gamson’s Law. This is largely accounted for here (and we suspect in Þeld data as well) by the selection protocol, which recognizes voting blocks in proportion to the number of votes controlled. Discounting pushes behavior in the right direction but has a much smaller effect than predicted. ∗ Kagel and Morelli gratefully acknowledge support from the National Science Foundation. We received valuable comments from Eyal Winter.
Biochemical a Genetic Engineering In Marine Aquaculture: The Role Of Modern Biotechnology In The Production Of Food From The Oceans

Intensification of production, modernization of techniques, and improvement of cultivars are needed to increase the economic efficiency of marine aquaculture industries in the United States and many other countries, to make these industries compatible with contemporary economic reality.Recently developed methods of biochemical and genetic engineering can be adapted for control of those biological processes which intrinsically limit the efficiency and yield of aquaculture production, to help achieve these necessary improvements. As illustrated by results obtained with abalones and other commercially valuable marine molluscs described here, critical life-cycle stages which thus far have proved amenable to improved control by these methods include:reproduction, larval settlement, metamorphosis, and the acceleration of early growth.
Albert and Whetten Revisited: Strengthening the Concept of Organizational Identity:

The objective of this article is to formulate the concept of organizational identity in such a way that it can be distinguished analytically from related concepts, such as organizational culture and image, and can be used operationally to identify bona fide organizational identity claims referents and associated identity-referencing discourse. The proposal amounts to a stronger version of Albert and Whetten (1985), in that the implicit links between the elements of their composite, tripartite, formulation are made explicit and their treatment of organizational identity as a defined construct is emphasized. Although the proposal eschews conceptions of organizational identity formulated from the perspective of individuals, it treats organizational identity as an analogue of individual identity, drawing attention to the parallel functions identity plays for both individual and collective social actors, as well as the parallel distinguishing structural features of individual and organizational identity refere...
The incidence of pulmonary embolism in unexplained sudden cardiac arrest with pulseless electrical activity

Abstract PURPOSE: The cause of many cases of sudden cardiac arrest from pulseless electrical activity is unknown. We hypothesized that pulmonary embolism was responsible for a substantial proportion of these cases and used transesophageal echocardiography to identify pulmonary embolism among patients with sudden cardiac arrest. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We performed a prospective study at a tertiary care, university-operated county hospital, with a level 1 trauma center. Consecutive patients (n = 36) who were admitted with (n = 20) or unexpectedly developed (n = 16) sudden cardiac arrest of unknown cause were studied with transesophageal echocardiography during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We determined the presence of central pulmonary embolism, right ventricular enlargement, and other causes of sudden cardiac arrest (such as myocardial infarction and aortic dissection) using prospectively defined criteria. RESULTS: Of the 25 patients with pulseless electrical activity as the initial event, 9 (36%) had pulmonary emboli (8 seen with transesophageal echocardiography and 1 diagnosed at autopsy) compared with none of the 11 patients with other rhythms, such as asystole or ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation ( P = 0.02). Of the 8 patients who had pulmonary embolism diagnosed by transesophageal echocardiography, 2 survived to hospital discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Mortality from massive pulmonary embolism is high, particularly if patients present with sudden cardiac arrest. Earlier diagnosis of pulmonary embolus may permit wider use of thrombolytic agents or other interventions and may potentially increase survival.
Tunable diode-laser-pumped solid state LNA laser for helium spectroscopic experiments

We have designed, built, and tested a compact, integrated, single-mode solid state LNA laser pumped by a semiconductor laser array for exciting the He resonance line at λ = 1.083 μm. The laser’s three major components are mounted on a single aluminum base, and the diode laser and its beam shaping optics are mounted on a separate stage. This compact and stable structure provides good frequency stability and nearly pure TEM00 transverse mode operation. The laser can be tuned around the metastable He resonance transition in a single longitudinal mode with linewidth ≅ 5 MHz using a solid, 60% coated intracavity 0.25-mm thick etalon. Saturated absorption signals on this transition have been used to measure the stability and tuning range. We have measured the properties for several crystals and calculated the expected performance characteristics to compare with the measured ones.
The Regulation of forkhead/HNF-3β Expression in the Ciona Embryo

The Ciona forkhead/HNF-3beta gene (Ci-fkh) is expressed in the primary axial tissues of the developing tadpole, including the notochord, endoderm, and rudimentary floor plate of the CNS. In an effort to determine the basis for this complex pattern of expression we have conducted a detailed analysis of the Ci-fkh 5'-regulatory region. Different 5' sequences were attached to a lacZ reporter gene and analyzed in electroporated Ciona embryos. A short regulatory sequence (AS) located approximately 1.7 kb upstream of the transcribed region is shown to be essential for expression in all three axial tissues. The proximal 20 bp of the AS contains overlapping Snail repressor elements and a T-box motif. Deleting these sequences causes the loss of reporter gene expression in the endoderm, as well as expanded expression in the neural tube. These results suggest that a T-box gene such as Ci-VegTR activates Ci-fkh expression in the endoderm, while the Ci-Sna repressor excludes expression from the lateral ependymal cells and restricts the Ci-fkh pattern to the rudimentary floor plate in ventral regions of the neural tube. We also present evidence for Ci-fkh positive autofeedback, whereby the Ci-Fkh protein binds to critical activator sites within the Ci-fkh 5'-regulatory region and helps maintain high levels of expression. We discuss these results with respect to forkhead/HNF-3beta regulation in vertebrates.
Polarization/radiometric based material classification

A technique for identifying the material properties of objects in an image using multiple images taken through a polarizing lens at various rotations in front of a stationary camera (only the filter moves). Using these images, it is possible to obtain the classification of material surfaces at all points on a spectacular highlight. The algorithm is demonstrated on laboratory images. The authors assume a point source, the theory can only be applied at points where specular reflection dominates. Extensions of the theory to deal with extended light sources, which greatly increase the portion of the image giving rise to specular reflection, are also considered. >
Podocyte-specific expression of organic cation transporter PMAT: implication in puromycin aminonucleoside nephrotoxicity

Plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT) is a novel polyspecific organic cation transporter that transports organic cations and the purine nucleoside, adenosine. PMAT is expressed in the kidney, but the specific localization and function of this transporter in renal cells are unclear. In this study, we developed a polyclonal antibody toward a 14-amino acid sequence in the last intracellular loop of PMAT and determined the precise cellular localization of PMAT in human and rat kidneys. Surprisingly, we found that the PMAT protein was predominantly expressed in the glomerulus with minimal expression in tubular cells. Within the glomerulus, dual-color immunofluorescence labeling showed that the PMAT protein was specifically localized to the visceral glomerular epithelial cells, i.e., podocytes. There was no significant PMAT immunoreactivity in mesangial or glomerular endothelial cells. We further showed that puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN), a classic podocyte toxin that induces massive proteinuria and severe glomerulopathy, is transported by PMAT. Expression of PMAT in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells significantly increased cell sensitivity to PAN. Decynium 22, a potent PMAT inhibitor, abolished PAN toxicity in PMAT-expressing cells. Together, our data suggest that PMAT is specifically expressed in podocytes and may play an important role in PAN-induced kidney injury.
A multi-scale approach to designing therapeutics for tuberculosis

Approximately one third of the world's population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Limited information about how the immune system fights M. tuberculosis and what constitutes protection from the bacteria impact our ability to develop effective therapies for tuberculosis. We present an in vivo systems biology approach that integrates data from multiple model systems and over multiple length and time scales into a comprehensive multi-scale and multi-compartment view of the in vivo immune response to M. tuberculosis. We describe computational models that can be used to study (a) immunomodulation with the cytokines tumor necrosis factor and interleukin 10, (b) oral and inhaled antibiotics, and (c) the effect of vaccination.
Levels of urinary total and speciated arsenic in the US population: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2004

To provide levels of total and speciated urinary arsenic in a representative sample of the US population. For the first time, total arsenic and seven inorganic and organic arsenic species were measured in the urine of participants (n=2557) for the 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Data were compiled as geometric means and selected percentiles of urinary arsenic concentrations (μg/l) and creatinine-corrected urinary arsenic (μg/g creatinine) for total arsenic, dimethylarsinic acid, arsenobetaine, and a sum of the inorganic related species. Arsenic acid, arsenous acid, arsenocholine, and trimethylarsine oxide were detected in 7.6%, 4.6%, 1.8%, and 0.3% of the participants, respectively (the limits of detection of 0.6–1.2 μg/l). Monomethylarsonic acid was detected in 35% of the overall population. For all participants aged ≥6 years, dimethylarsinic acid (geometric mean of 3.71 μg/l) and arsenobetaine (geometric mean of 1.55 μg/l) had the greatest contribution to the total urinary arsenic levels. A relatively greater percentage contribution from arsenobetaine is seen at higher total urinary arsenic levels and from dimethylarsinic acid at lower total urinary arsenic levels. For all participants aged ≥6 years, the 95th percentiles for total urinary arsenic and the sum of inorganic-related arsenic (arsenic acid, arsenous acid, dimethylarsinic acid, and monomethylarsonic acid) were 65.4 and 18.9 μg/l, respectively. For total arsenic and dimethylarsinic acid, covariate-adjusted geometric means demonstrated several slight differences due to age, gender, and race/ethnicity. The data reflect relative background contributions of inorganic and seafood-related arsenic exposures in the US population. Arsenobetaine and dimethylarsinic acid are the major arsenic species present with arsenobetaine, accounting for a greater proportion of total arsenic as total arsenic levels increase.
A framework for Lyapunov certificates for multi-vehicle rendezvous problems

In this paper, we present a dynamical systems representation for multi-agent rendezvous on the phase plane. We restrict our attention to two agents, each with scalar dynamics. The problem of rendezvous is cast as a stabilization problem, with a set of constraints on the trajectories of the agents, defined on the phase plane. We also describe a method to generate control Lyapunov functions that when used in conjunction with a stabilizing control law, such as Sontag's formula, makes sure that the two-agent system attains rendezvous. The main result of this paper is a Lyapunov-like certificate theorem that describes a set of constraints, which when satisfied are sufficient to guarantee rendezvous.