cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental population genetics of meiotic drive systems. I. Pseudo-Y chromosomal drive as a means of eliminating cage populations of Drosophila melanogaster.

The experimental population genetics of Y-chromosome drive in Drosophila melanogaster is approximated by studying the behavior of T(Y;2),SD lines. These exhibit "pseudo-Y" drive through the effective coupling of the Y chromosome to the second chromosome meiotic drive locus, Segregation distorter (SD). T(Y;2),SD males consequently produce only male offspring. When such lines are allowed to compete against structurally normal SD+ flies in population cages, T(Y;2),SD males increase in frequency according to the dynamics of a simple haploid selection model until the cage population is eliminated as a result of a deficiency in the number of adult females. Cage population extinction generally occurs within about seven generations.—Several conclusions can be drawn from these competition cage studies: (1) Fitness estimates for the T(Y;2),SD lines (relative to SD+ ) are generally in the range of 2–4, and these values are corroborated by independent estimates derived from studies of migration-selection equilibrium. (2) Fitness estimates are unaffected by cage replication, sample time, or the starting frequency of T(Y;2),SD males, indicating that data from diverse cages can be legitimately pooled to give an overall fitness estimate. (3) Partitioning of the T(Y;2),SD fitnesses into components of viability, fertility, and frequency of alternate segregation (Y + SD from X + SD+) suggests that most of the T(Y;2),SD advantage derives from the latter two components. Improvements in the system might involve increasing both the viability and the alternate segregation to increase the total fitness. While pseudo-Y drive operates quite effectively against laboratory stocks, it is less successful in eliminating wild-type populations which are already segregating for suppressors of SD action. This observation suggests that further studies into the origin and rate of accumulation of suppressors of meiotic drive are needed before an overall assessment can be made of the potential of Y-chromosome drive as a tool for population control.
Vascular oxidative metabolism under different metabolic conditions.

Control of respiration in vascular smooth muscle was examined while the metabolic state of the tissue was manipulated. During KCl-induced contractures in the presence of 5 mM glucose, oxygen consumption increased by 10 nmol/per min g without any decrease in phosphocreatine (PCr) or ATP as determined by 31P-NMR indicating a control of respiration which does not involve changes in high-energy phosphates (e.g., ADP, phosphorylation potential). However, when aortae with resting tone in the absence of substrate were then provided with 5 mM 2-deoxyglucose as the sole substrate, oxygen consumption increased 7.4 nmol/min per g while PCr decreased by more than 50% (resulting in a 2-fold increase in the calculated free ADP) with no change in tension from resting tone. During a subsequent KCl induced contracture in the presence of 2-deoxyglucose, oxygen consumption increased an additional 7.2 nmol/min per g while PCr continued to decline. Therefore, at least two mechanisms of respiratory control may exist in sheep aorta, one dependent and the other independent of changes in high-energy phosphates.
Possible evidence for gravitational Bohr orbits in double galaxies.

It is suggested that a double galaxy may be the cosmic analog of a hydrogen atom, in the sense that quantum mechanics applies to both. An empirica approach is suggested to explore a possible Bohr model for double galaxies and some preliminary calculations are presented. The calculations provide cautious support for gravitational Bohr orbits in double galaxies.
Generalized P, Q and G conditions

The N-Representability Problem entails characterizing the set of second order reduced states that are contractions of N-electron states of the Fermion Fock algebra. This problem is formulated in the form of finding the conditions that a positive linear functional defined on a subspace of this algebra must satisfy in order to be extended to the whole algebra. As this algebra is a w*-algebra one can utilize a theorem by Kadison that shows it is sufficient to consider the values of linear functionals on projectors contained in the subspace in order to determine whether they have positive extensions. Thus we find the form of projectors belonging to the subspace of one and two particle operators and subsequently show that the extension conditions needed in the N-Representability Problem correspond to generalized P, Q and G conditions plus the additional constraints that the functionals be dispersion free on the number operator and their values on one particle operators determined by their values on two particle operators.
Petroleum Patriarchy? A Response to Ross

The notion of a “resource curse” has been most commonly applied in explaining why many countries apparently blessed with abundant reserves of nonrenewable mineral resources, such as Nigerian oil, Democratic Republic of Congo gold, or Sierra Leone diamonds, in fact, are commonly blighted with less transparency and probity, economic stability, economic diversification, social equality, and investment in human capital. In these conditions, the heightened danger of state capture and rent seeking by ruling elites generate poorer prospects for the transition from autocracy and the consolidation of stable democracies (Auty 1993; Boix 2003; Dunning 2008; Jensen and Wantchekon 2004; Ross 2001). Lootable mineral resources, in particular, are thought to make a country particularly vulnerable to civil war, insurgency, and rebellion (Collier and Sambanis 2005; Humphreys 2005; Ross 2004, 2006; Snyder 2006).
Risk of colorectal neoplasia in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Studies implicating primary sclerosing cholangitis as a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia in patients with ulcerative colitis have been limited by small sample size and referral bias. The aim of this study was to determine the relative risk and cumulative incidence of colorectal neoplasia in a large sample of patients with sclerosing cholangitis. METHODS: A sample of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (n = 178), stratified by geographic area of residence, was identified and followed up to determine survival and development of colorectal neoplasia. The relative risk of colorectal cancer was determined using age- and sex-specific incidence rates of colorectal cancer in the U.S. general population as well as rates in patients with ulcerative colitis from central Sweden. RESULTS: The relative risk of colorectal cancer was elevated 10-fold (standardized morbidity ratio, 10.3; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-30) compared with the general population for exposure to both sclerosing cholangitis and colitis but not cholangitis alone (standardized morbidity ratio, 4.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-27). The observed number of cancers was similar to that expected on the basis of rates in Swedish patients with ulcerative colitis. CONCLUSIONS: If primary sclerosing cholangitis is an additional risk factor for neoplasia in ulcerative colitis, the clinical significance of the risk seems to be low. (Gastroenterology 1996 Feb;110(2):432-40)
Peptides in urine of DCA-treated and figure-of-8 rats.

SummaryA peptide material has been extracted from rat urine which decreases blood pressure of normal rats, raises blood pressure of rats with sympathetic system blocked, and causes contraction of uterine muscle. The activity of the extract is greatly increased in rats treated several weeks with DCA, but there is no clear relationship between the increase in the active substance and the onset of the hypertension. In renal hypertension pressor activity of the urine extract was not increased, even after hypertension had developed. It is highly probable that 2 or more peptides are involved. Anephrotensin, bradykinin and or kallidin may be the active agents, or the activity may be due to some as yet undescribed substance or substances. The possibility that angiotensin or vasopressin is the active component has been ruled out.
Apartheid brasileiro: raça e segregação residencial no Rio de Janeiro

Neste artigo descrevo os eventos politicos principais que, em julho de 2001, levaram a instalacao de portoes e câmeras em volta do Jacarezinho, a segunda maior favela do Rio de Janeiro, e as imediatas reacoes negativas a essas medidas na imprensa - especialmente jornais e redes de TV. Analiso essas reacoes a partir de dados etnograficos que tenho coletado desde junho de 2001 no Rio de Janeiro, quando iniciei um trabalho de colaboracao com ativistas negras/os que, com a ajuda de ex-membros do grupo Panteras Negras (EUA), ousaram desafiar a policia, os traficantes de drogas e, de fato, setores mais amplos da sociedade. Atraves da analise da cobertura dos jornais sobre o "condominio-favela" e dos debates publicos que se seguiram, demonstro como tais discursos, ainda que de forma frequentemente tacita, desumanizam negras/os ao associa-las/os ao crime, a corrupcao e as favelas - bairros das classes trabalhadoras considerados como o local onde futuras geracoes de negras/os perigosas/os continuarao a aterrorizar a imaginacao e a vida daquelas pessoas que nao moram em favelas. Concluo o artigo com uma avaliacao da literatura academica sobre cidades brasileiras e sugiro que e necessario dar atencao as formas como raca e espaco urbano interagem se a pesquisa nessa area pretende compreender e dialogar com ativistas moradores de favelas que nao tem outra saida a nao ser confrontar sua continua desumanizacao.
Diazepam and its Anomalous p-Chloro-derivative Ro 5-4864: Comparative effects on mouse neurons in cell culture

Abstract The actions of diazepam and itsp-chloro-derivative Ro 5-4864 were compared on mouse spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion neurons in cell culture. Diazepam enhanced but Ro 5-4864 reduced iontophoretic GABA responses in a concentration-dependent manner. Both diazepam and Ro 5-4864 limited sustained, high frequency repetitive firing of spinal cord neurons but diazepam was more potent. Ro 5-4864 was, however, more potent than diazepam in inhibiting spontaneous neuronal activity of spinal cord neurons and reducing the duration of calcium-dependent action potentials of dorsal root ganglion neurons. The differeing actions of diazepam and Ro 5-4864 may account for the contrasting pharmalogical spectra of the two benzodiazepines.
The researcher in Italy: A profession in search of recognition

Abstract This article deals with the “teething, problems” of the profession of researchers in Italy. This group of professionals in fact has grown very rapidly over the last two decades, but they still seem to be striving to find their proper place in the organization they work in and recognition from society in general. At the same time they have acquired a sufficiently self-awareness as an emerging group and started claiming their own “rights”. The article examines some problems researchers encounter in their specific working setting (industry, university, public research agencies), such as mobility, status, and career prospects. Mobility within the Italian science and technology (ST it is also asserted that the delay in granting recognition is due to the organizations and institutions.
Immunization with DNA coding for gp100 results in CD4+ T-cell independent antitumor immunity

Abstract Background: Xenogeneic DNA immunization can exploit small differences in expressed protein sequence resulting in immune recognition of self-molecules. We hypothesized that immunizing mice with xenogeneic DNA coding for the human melanosomal membrane glycoprotein gp100 would overcome immune ignorance or tolerance and result in tumor immunity. We also investigated the immunologic mechanisms of the antitumor immunity. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were immunized with DNA coding for human gp100, mouse gp100, or control vector by gene gun. After immunization, mice were challenged with a syngeneic melanoma expressing gp100, and tumor growth was analyzed. Mice deficient in major histocompatibility complex class I or class II molecules were similarly studied to assess the immunologic mechanism of the tumor protection. Results: There was significant tumor protection after vaccination with xenogeneic human gp100 DNA. Class I, but not class II, major histocompatibility complex molecules were required for tumor immunity. In addition, mice immunized with human gp100 demonstrated autoimmunity manifested as coat color depigmentation. Conclusions: Immunization with xenogeneic DNA coding for the melanosomal glycoprotein gp100 results in tumor protection and autoimmune depigmentation. These results show that xenogeneic DNA vaccines can lead to cancer immunity without CD4+ T-cell help with potential implications for rational vaccine design. (Surgery 2000;128:273-80.)
Utilizing Focus Groups with Potential Participants and Their Parents: An Approach to Inform Study Design in a Large Clinical Trial.

Background: In the recent literature, there has been some evidence that exposure of children to anesthetic procedures during the first 2 years of life may impair cognitive function and learning in later life. We planned a clinical study to quantify this risk, a study involving testing 1,000 children for neurodevelopmental deficits. As a part of this planning, we conducted focus groups involving potential participants and their parents to elicit information regarding three issues: communications with the community and potential participants, recruitment and consent processes, and the return of neurodevelopmental testing results. Methods: Three focus groups were conducted with the parents of potential participants and one focus group was conducted with a group 18 years old; each group consisted of 6–10 participants. The moderated discussions had questions about recruitment, consenting issues, and expectations from the study about return of both overall trial findings and individual research test results. Re...
Kinesin-14: A League of their Own

Kinesin-14 represents a subfamily of kinesins that are nonprocessive, promote microtubule (MT) minus-end-directed force generation, and contain C-terminal motor domains that are dimerized through an N-terminal coiled-coil. Unlike the well-known N-terminal motor domain kinesins that use an asymmetric hand-over-hand mechanism for MT plus-end-directed processive stepping, Kinesin-14s use a MT minus-end-directed powerstroke to generate force to crosslink and slide one MT relative to another. While most Kinesin-14s are homodimers like Drosophila Ncd, S. cerevisiae Kar3Vik1 is a heterodimer. The C-terminal domain of Vik1 exhibits the structural fold of a kinesin motor domain, binds MTs independent of Kar3, yet lacks a nucleotide-binding site. Furthermore, Kar3Vik1 binds across adjacent MT protofilaments, a non-canonical MT binding configuration. The results indicate that Kar3Vik1 collides with the MT through Vik1, promoting MT binding by Kar3. The tight binding of Kar3 destabilizes the Vik1 interaction with the MT, positioning Kar3Vik1 for the start of the powerstroke. Rapid ATP binding to Kar3 is associated with the rotation of the coiled-coil stalk, and post-powerstroke ATP hydrolysis is independent of Vik1 providing additional evidence that Vik1 rotates with the coiled-coil during the powerstroke. Detachment of Kar3Vik1 from the MT completes the cycle and allows the motor to return to its initial conformation. Supported by NIH GM54141.
Terpene biosynthesis by nasute termite soldiers (Isoptera: Nasutitermitinae)

Solutions of the labelled precursors [U14C]-d-glucose, [1-14C]-sodium acetate, [2-14C]-sodium acetate, [2-14C]-RS-mevalonic acid sodium salt and [3-14C]-R--mevalonic acid sodium salt were injected into the abdomens of soldiers of the Neotropical termite Nasutitermes octopilis (Banks) (Isoptera: Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae). Crude hexane extracts of the soldier heads showed a 0.9–5.0% incorporation of radioactivity into defence secretions, with only 0.2–1.3% incorporation into abdominal hexane-extractable material. Chromatographic isolation of pure mono- and di-terpenoid compounds unambiguously demonstrated incorporation of labelled precursors into the soldier defence secretions in vivo. It is noteworthy that the soldier biosynthetic enzymes operate independent of any metabolic assistance from worker termites.
A Comparison of 2-part and 3-part Nanoparticle-Based Sensors

There has long been a drive to produce sensors with ever-increasing sensitivity and selectivity, while also achieving robustness and ease of use. Nanoparticle-based sensing approaches have generated a great deal of attention and excitement, because they possess such qualities. For these assays to function properly, it requires the integration of molecular recognition motifs and materials with outstanding optical properties. Aptamers are DNA or RNA sequences that bind analytes with high specificity, which makes them a suitable choice as recognition elements. Changes in the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of gold nanoparticles (AuNPS) as a function of interparticle distance, has been used as an optical signal to detect the presence of different species in solution by the naked eye. In this work, we coated gold nanoparticles with short oligonucleotides and aptamers for the design of sensors that can be used under different conditions, including salt concentration, pH and temperatures. Three aptamer sensors were developed using this approach 1) riboflavin, as a general indicator of biological activity, 2) ricin, a toxin that is of broad interest, and 3) theophylline, an adenosine antagonist. Our designs are based on two approaches, the first method consisted of the use of two sets of AuNPs, each coated with a short oligonucleotide complementary to a different part of the sequence of the aptamer of interest. Hybridization of the DNA-coated particles (DNA-AuNPs) with the free aptamer produced aggregates, i.e. 3-part design. The second approach consisted of the use of only two sets of DNA-AuNPs, one coated with an aptamer that contains a thiol group in its 5′ end, and the second set of AuNPs coated with a sequence complementary to part of the aptamer. Hybridization of these two sets of particles produced aggregates, i.e. 2-part design. In both cases, the presence of the analyte promoted a change in the conformation of the aptamer, which caused the dehybridization of the complementary sequences. This conformational change of the aptamer upon binding of the analyte produced the dissociation of the nanoparticle aggregates, which is translated into a change in the color of the suspensions from blue to red. In this presentation, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages associated with a 3-part versus a 2-part nanoparticle-oligonucleotide reporting assay.
The separative self in Sylvia Plath's the bell jar

Plath's novel The Bell Jar dramatizes the collusion between the notion of a separate and separative self (or bounded, autonomous subject) and the cultural forces that have oppressed women. The pervasive imagery of dismemberment conveys the alienation and self‐alienation leading to Esther Greenwood's breakdown and suicide attempt; the recovery which Plath constructs for her heroine merely reenacts the dismemberments obsessively imaged in the first half of the novel. This “recovery” denies the relationality of the self and leaves Esther to define herself unwittingly and unwillingly in relation to culturally‐ingrained stereotypes of women. Contemporary feminist theory has questioned the validity of the separative model of selfhood, but literary critics have brought to the novel the same assumptions about the self which inform Plath's book. Thus they have failed to recognize what the novel has to teach about the destructive effects — at least for women — of our cultural commitment to that model.
Ecological bases of interactions between weeds and organisms in other pest categories

Interactions between weeds and organisms in other pest categories are inevitable. Weeds are plants and therefore ecologically are producers. All other pest organisms are consumers; they are herbivores or pathogens and can thus use weeds directly as a food source. Beneficial organisms are primary carnivores that feed on herbivores; weeds can support beneficials indirectly when they feed on herbivores living on weeds. Weeds can also serve to mask crop plants from herbivore pests; the mechanisms by which this occurs are still debated. Presence of a weed canopy modifies ecosystem microclimate and provides shelter for pests and beneficials that would otherwise not survive. Tactics used to control pests can have impacts on nontarget organisms in other pest categories. Changes in tillage for weed control can impact population development of other pests. Pesticides can affect nontarget organisms resulting in unanticipated changes in crop tolerance and pest control. Development of true integrated pest management programs requires a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates interactions between organisms in different pest categories.
Impaired cutaneous wound healing after sensory denervation in developing rats: effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis.

The role of sensory nociceptor nerves in cutaneous wound healing was investigated following full-thickness 4-mm diameter dorsal cutaneous excision wounding of rats on postnatal day 12. In rats with intact innervation, wounds at 3 days contained large numbers of TUNEL- and BRDU-labeled nuclei, consistent with inflammatory cell death and granulation cell proliferation. Wound area and volume decreased through 11 days in concert with a transient appearance of α-smooth muscle actin-immunoreactive myofibroblasts, declining rates of cell division, and increased occurrence of apoptotic cells. Sensory denervation by capsaicin injections on postnatal days 2 and 9 reduced calcitonin gene-related peptide-immunoreactive wound innervation persistently by up to 43%. This was associated with increased wound surface area and volume, and delays in scab loss and re-epithelialization. Relative to control wounds, granulation tissue showed increased myofibroblast content at 5–7 days. Capsaicin-treated rats had more BRDU-labeled cells, including myofibroblasts, through day 7. Numbers of TUNEL apoptotic cells per unit area of tissue section were reduced by denervation in both early and late stages of healing. We conclude that partial loss of sensory innervation impairs cutaneous wound healing in developing rats, as manifested by delayed re-epithelialization and failure of the wound area to decrease normally through at least 21 days. This is associated with an abnormally enlarged wound tissue volume resulting from increased granulation cell proliferation without proportionate increases in apoptosis. These findings suggest that nociceptor innervation plays a critical role in wound healing by regulating wound cellularity.
A spheroid weighted-axis converter of vestibular schwannoma size: maximum diameter and cisternal volume.

ObjectivesTo evaluate spheroid models of vestibular schwannoma (VS) size for bidirectional conversion of maximum diameter in the cistern and 3-dimensional volume.Study DesignMethodological study.SettingAcademic tertiary referral center.Subjects and MethodsMagnetic resonance imaging studies from 91 patients with VS from 2003 to 2011 were analyzed. Linear measurements defining meatal and cisternal components were extracted. Geometrically based conformal models of tumor volume were compared with measured tumor volume using a semiautomated computerized tracing method. Models were inverted to predict maximum axial cisternal length at the level of the internal auditory canal (IAC).ResultsA spheroid-weighted axis converter (SWC) of VS size was identified by minimizing input measurement parameters while maximizing output prediction performance. Computation steps of tumor volumes were (1) meatal—measure tumor lengths along the IAC and at the porus acusticus and take the average of a cone and cylinder and (2) ciste...
A Generalization of the Momentum Mapping Construction for Quaternionic Kahler Manifolds

We present a method of reduction of any quaternionic Kahler manifold with isometries to another quaternionic Kahler manifold in which the isometries are divided out. Our method is a generalization of the Marsden-Weinstein construction for symplectic manifolds to the non-symplectic geometry of the quaternionic Kahler case. We compare our results with the known construction for Kahler and hyperKahler manifolds. We also discuss the relevance of our results to the physics of supersymmetric non-linear σ-models and some applications of the method. In particular, we show that the Wolf spaces can be obtained as theU(1) andSU(2) quotients of quaternionic projective spaceHP(n). We also construct an interesting example of compact riemannianV-manifolds(orbifolds) whose metrics are quaternionic Kahler and not symmetric.
NOAA'S NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY RESOURCES AND UNDERSEA THREATS DATABASE: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

ABSTRACT Recent incidents within our National Marine Sanctuaries (NMS), throughout the United States, and around the world have led the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to begin to look proactively at catastrophic hazardous material releases from submerged sources. Not knowing and understanding the reality of the ecological and economic impacts associated with submerged threats (such as vessels, pipelines, abandoned wellheads, ammunition, and chemical weapon dumpsites) is no longer an option for the nation'S leading ocean agency. Reactive strategies for addressing these threats after a release incident have proved to be ineffective and costly. For example, the decade-long release of heavy fuel oil from the MIV Jacob Luckenbach off the coast of California not only caused the loss of thousands of seabirds, but also cost the nation upwards of $20 million dollars to mitigate and remove the oil from the sunken cargo ship. We know there are potential threats out there and the National Mari...
Human vascular endothelial cells synthesize and release 24- and 26-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids

Abstract Vascular endothelial cells from human umbilical vein readily incorporate [ 14 C]eicosatrienoate (20:3 ( n −6)) and desaturate it to synthesize [ 14 C]arachidonate (20:4) and [ 14 C]docosatetraenoate (22:4). Both substrate and metabolites are extensively esterified in cellular phospholipids and triacylglycerol. After these cells are incubated for 24–48 h with 4.5 μM [ 14 C]20:3 in culture medium plus 10% fetal bovine serum, the medium contains a number of radiolabeled free fatty acids. In addition to arachidonate and docosatetraenoate, these include still longer-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. We have identified these as 24:4, 24:5, 26:4 and 26:5 by both radio-gas chromatography and HPLC. Although the 24- and 26-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids represent a negligible percentage of cellular 14 C-labeled fatty acids, they are each present in the medium at a concentration of 10–40 nM, whereas [ 14 C]arachidonate is 60–100 nM. In particular, products of Δ 4 desaturation are a significant component of radiolabeled polyunsaturated fatty acids in medium but not in the cells. Since docosapolyenoic fatty acids have recently been shown to give rise to biologically active oxygenated derivatives, the selective release and possible subsequent metabolism of even longer polyunsaturated fatty acids warrants further investigation.
Fluorescence labeling of mouse alloantibodies.

Mouse alloantibodies can be readily labeled with fluoresceinyl thioureido caproic acid and tetramethylrhodaminylthiourido caproic acid, which are new derivatives of fluorescein or tetramethylrhodamine, containing a caproic acid residue as a spacer. The ω-carboxyl group will establish an amide bond with amino groups of portein in a mild condensation reaction with water-soluble carbodiimides. Antibody activity is fully retained, and binding to fixed or unfixed cells yields specific fluorescence of a practical intensity.
Fuzzy algorithms for learning vector quantization: generalizations and extensions

This paper presents a general methodology for the development of fuzzy algorithms for learning vector quantization (FALVQ). These algorithms can be used to train feature maps to perform pattern clustering through an unsupervised learning process. The development of FALVQ algorithms is based on the minimization of a fuzzy objective function, formed as the weighted sum of the squared Euclidean distances between an input vector, which represents a feature vector, and the weight vectors of the map, which represent the prototypes. This formulation leads to the development of genuinely competitive algorithms, which allow all prototypes to compete for matching each input. The FALVQ 1, FALVQ 2, and FALVQ 3 families of algorithms are developed by selecting admissible generalized membership functions with different properties. The efficiency of the proposed algorithms is illustrated by their use in codebook design required for image compression based on vector quantization. © (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Social Comparison Processes in Sexual Self-Perceptions

Abstract A study was conducted to investigate whether the inferences that individuals make about their sexuality are influenced by social comparison processes. Forty-four male and 54 female research participants were given bogus survey information about the sexual experience of others. The survey indicated the percentage of college freshmen (same sex as the participants) who had engaged in sexual intercourse by the time they entered college. We manipulated the percentage (high-75%, or low-10%) presented in the survey. The participants were then asked to rate themselves on a number of sexual traits and to indicate the number of sexual activities they had engaged in. The results showed that participants' ratings of their sexuality were influenced by the survey information. As predicted by social comparison theory, those who read the survey indicating a high percentage of participation in sexual intercourse rated themselves lower on a number of sexual traits than those who read the survey indicating a low pe...
Cyclic nucleotide regulation of interleukin-1β induced nitric oxide synthase expression in vascular smooth muscle cells

Abstract Experiments were performed to examine the effect of cyclic nucleotides on the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) treated rat aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC). Treatment of vascular SMC with IL-1β stimulated iNOS mRNA expression and the subsequent release of nitrite, a stable oxidation product of nitric oxide (NO). Similarily, lipophilic analogues of cAMP also induced both iNOS mRNA expression and nitrite release. The addition of IL-1β and cAMP derivatives resulted in a synergystic enhancement of both iNOS mRNA production and of nitrite formation. In contrast, lipophilic analogues of cGMP did not induce iNOS expression. The addition of cGMP derivatives modestly increased IL-1β-induced SMC nitrite generation without affecting the production of iNOS mRNA. The capacity of cyclic nucleotides to positively modulate the induction of iNOS activity may play an important role in regulating the release of NO in vivo.
Ability of Subjective Linear Scores to Represent Cow Differences in Objective Body Measurements

Abstract Body measurements, experimental linear descriptive scores, and Holstein descriptive codes on nearly 300 lactating cows in five herds were used 1) to compare the effectiveness of the later two subjective systems at depicting cow differences, and 2) to quantitate the loss of accuracy from reducing the 50 point linear scale to 25, 10, and 5 classes. Indirect selection differentials were calculated for various percentages saved (1 to 40%) when selection was based on linear scores and descriptive codes and compared with direct selection differentials. Indirect selection on linear stature and udder depth scores was nearly as useful as direct selection for stature and distance from rear udder to hock. Selection differential for linear scores for rear udder width were intermediate. For the measurements of chest depth, hip width, and thurl width, linear scores were only slightly better than descriptive scores. Reducing the number of linear classes to 25 had little impact on any of the traits studied. Reducing classes to 5 had a larger impact on explaining cow differences in chest depth (especially at the extreme), hip width, thurl width, and rear udder width. Where comparable, 10 to 25 classes of linear scores explain most of the cow differences that can be measured objectively.
Bother arising from urinary frequency in women.

Patients commonly express bother with the symptom of frequent urination. The relationship between actual voiding frequency and this symptom is undocumented. We reviewed records of 200 women who had completed 24-hour frequency-volume charts, and had indicated their degree of bother with urinary frequency utilizing the short form of the Urogenital Distress Inventory. The degree of bother was correlated with daytime and nighttime voiding frequency, maximum functional capacity, mean voided volume, and demographic variables. Among 200 women, 180 (90%) indicated at least a minor degree of bother with urinary frequency. A voiding frequency of eight or more times in 24 hours was reported by 166 (83%) of women. Among the 34 women voiding fewer than eight times/24 hours, 26 (76%) reported bother with urinary frequency. There was large variation in the degree of bother reported at a given voiding frequency. Postmenopausal women without hormone replacement therapy (HRT) recorded more nighttime voids than those on HRT. Among postmenopausal women without HRT, mean voided volume and maximum functional capacity were inversely related to patient age. Our study suggests that the currently utilized cutoff value of eight daily voids to define urinary frequency, may not be helpful in the management of women in this country. A racially diverse study of the voiding habits of asymptomatic North American women is mandated.
Dielectric constants of complex pharmaceutical solvent systems II. Water–ethanol–sucrose and water–ethanol–sorbitol

Dielectric constants of water–ethanol–sucrose and water–ethanol–sorbitol systems have been experimentally determined. Dielectric constant values in these systems were generally found to be a complex function of composition expressed as weight per cent. Data are presented which will allow generation of dielectric constant—composition relationships over a dielectric constant range between 40 and 70.
Pathogenesis of Chronic Viral Hepatitis: Differential Roles of T cells and NK cells

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections account for 57% of cases of liver cirrhosis and 78% of cases of primary liver cancer worldwide and cause a million deaths per year. Although HBV and HCV differ in their genome structures, replication strategies and life cycles, they have common features, including their noncytopathic nature and their capacity to induce chronic liver disease, which is thought to be immune mediated. However, the rate of disease progression from chronic hepatitis to cirrhosis varies greatly among infected individuals, and the factors that regulate it are largely unknown. This review summarizes our current understanding of the roles of antigen-specific and nonspecific immune cells in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B and C and discusses recent findings that identify natural killer cells as regulators of T cell function and liver inflammation.
Cell-free study of F plasmid partition provides evidence for cargo transport by a diffusion-ratchet mechanism

Increasingly diverse types of cargo are being found to be segregated and positioned by ParA-type ATPases. Several minimalistic systems described in bacteria are self-organizing and are known to affect the transport of plasmids, protein machineries, and chromosomal loci. One well-studied model is the F plasmid partition system, SopABC. In vivo, SopA ATPase forms dynamic patterns on the nucleoid in the presence of the ATPase stimulator, SopB, which binds to the sopC site on the plasmid, demarcating it as the cargo. To understand the relationship between nucleoid patterning and plasmid transport, we established a cell-free system to study plasmid partition reactions in a DNA-carpeted flowcell. We observed depletion zones of the partition ATPase on the DNA carpet surrounding partition complexes. The findings favor a diffusion-ratchet model for plasmid motion whereby partition complexes create an ATPase concentration gradient and then climb up this gradient toward higher concentrations of the ATPase. Here, we report on the dynamic properties of the Sop system on a DNA-carpet substrate, which further support the proposed diffusion-ratchet mechanism.
Bifunctional fusion proteins of the human engineered antibody domain m36 with human soluble CD4 are potent inhibitors of diverse HIV-1 isolates

Currently used antiretroviral therapy is highly successful but there is still a need for new effective and safe prophylactics and therapeutics. We have previously identified and characterized a human engineered antibody domain (eAd), m36, which exhibits potent broadly neutralizing activity against HIV-1 by targeting a highly conserved CD4 binding-induced (CD4i) structure on the viral envelope glycoprotein (Env) gp120. m36 has very small size (∼15 kDa) but is highly specific and is likely to be safe in long-term use thus representing a novel class of potentially promising HIV-1 inhibitors. Major problems with the development of m36 as a candidate therapeutic are possible short serum half life and lack of effector functions that could be important for effective protection in vivo. Fusion of m36 to human IgG1 Fc resulted in dramatically diminished neutralization potency most likely due to the sterically restricted nature of the m36 epitope that limits access of large molecules. To confer effector functions and simultaneously increase the potency, we first matured m36 by panning and screening a mutant library for mutants with increased binding to gp120. We next fused m36 and its mutants with the first two domains (soluble CD4, sCD4) of the human CD4 using a polypeptide linker. Our results showed that the selected m36 mutants and the sCD4 fusion proteins exhibited more potent antiviral activities than m36. The m36-sCD4 fusion proteins with human IgG1 Fc showed even higher potency likely due to their bivalency and increased avidity although with a greater increase in molecular size. Our data suggest that m36 derivatives are promising HIV-1 candidate therapeutics and tools to study highly conserved gp120 structures with implications for understanding mechanisms of entry and design of vaccine immunogens and small-molecule inhibitors.
Association between Myopia and Glaucoma in the United States Population

RESULTS: Odds of self-reported glaucoma were not significantly increased in mild (OR 0.90, CI 0.56-1.45), moderate (OR 1.40, CI 0.62-3.16), or severe (OR 0.26, CI 0.08-0.80) myopes compared to emmetropes. Odds of vertical cup-to-disc ratio ≥0.7 were not significantly increased in mild (OR 0.84, CI 0.31-2.25), moderate (OR 0.37, CI 0.04-3.57), or severe (OR 0.85, CI 0.09-8.42) myopes compared to emmetropes. Odds of any visual field defects were significantly increased in mild (OR 2.02, CI 1.28-3.19), moderate (OR 3.09, CI 1.42-6.72) and severe (OR 14.43, CI 5.13-40.61) myopes compared to emmetropes. The χ2 test indicated a significant difference (p=0.001) in the distribution of subjects with each category of visual field status across subjects with each refractive status; the proportion of subjects with worse visual field defects increased with worsening myopia severity. CONCLUSIONS: The association between myopia and visual field defects may represent an increased risk of glaucoma among myopes, and the lack of association with self-reported glaucoma may suggest a need for greater glaucoma surveillance in this population.
Implant-guided vertical bone growth in the mini-pig

Objective: To attain and describe guided vertical bone regeneration around titanium (Ti) and titanium zirconium (Ti–Zr) dental implants utilizing non-glycosylated recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (ng/rhBMP-2), biomaterial scaffolds and a scaffold retainer. Materials and methods: Thirty-two modified Straumann TE implants were partially embedded in the mandibles of eight adult mini-pigs. Pre-shaped resorbable scaffolds were placed around the implant and shielded and stabilized with a newly developed Ti custom scaffold retainer (umbrella) or wide-neck (WN) healing caps to stabilize the scaffold. Ng/rhBMP-2 (50 μg) was applied to the supracrestal portion of the implant or incorporated within the scaffold. At 9 weeks, soft tissue healing was assessed. Vertical bone regeneration outcomes including bone height, bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and bone volume were assessed by micro-computed tomography and histology. Results: Soft tissue healing at the test sites (+ng/rhBMP-2/+scaffold) appeared to be substantially better than the control sites (−ng/rhBMP-2/−scaffold). Bone height, BIC percentage and bone volume were all similar regardless of whether WN healing caps or umbrella scaffold stabilization was used for all biomaterial scaffolds tested. WN healing cap test sites showed greater new bone height and BIC as compared with aggregate data from the control sites (P=0.05). Comparison of aggregate data from the umbrella test sites showed greater BIC and new bone volume as compared with aggregate data from the control sites(P=0.05). Conclusion: Vertical bone regeneration was successfully attained utilizing ng/rhBMP-2, biomaterial scaffolds and a scaffold retainer.
Neural substrates of vocalization feedback monitoring in primate auditory cortex

Vocal communication involves both speaking and hearing, often taking place concurrently. Vocal production, including human speech and animal vocalization, poses a number of unique challenges for the auditory system. It is important for the auditory system to monitor external sounds continuously from the acoustic environment during speaking despite the potential for sensory masking by self-generated sounds. It is also essential for the auditory system to monitor feedback of one's own voice. This self-monitoring may play a part in distinguishing between self-generated or externally generatedauditory inputs and in detecting errors in our vocal production. Previous work in humans and other animals has demonstrated that the auditory cortex is largely suppressed during speaking or vocalizing. Despite the importance of self-monitoring, the underlying neural mechanisms in the mammalian brain, in particular the role of vocalization-induced suppression, remain virtually unknown. Here we show that neurons in the auditory cortex of marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus) are sensitive to auditory feedback during vocal production, and that changes in the feedback alter the coding properties of these neurons. Furthermore, we found that the previously described cortical suppression during vocalization actually increased the sensitivity of these neurons to vocal feedback. This heightened sensitivity to vocal feedback suggests that these neurons may have an important role in auditory self-monitoring.
Metallogenesis in Southeast Pacific Ocean: Nazca Plate Project: ABSTRACT

The Nazca Plate Project is a detailed and systematic geological, geochemical, and geophysical investigation of a distinct and tectonically active lithospheric plate of the southeast Pacific Ocean basin. Major tectonic boundaries of the Nazca plate are defined by the East Pacific Rise on the west, along which new oceanic crust of basalt is being generated; the Peru-Chile Trench on the east, where older oceanic crust is being consumed by subduction beneath the overriding South American plate; and the Galapagos spreading center and the Chile Rise on the north and south, respectively. The motion of this plate relative to the Pacific plate is estimated to be eastward at more than 16 cm/yr, as documented by stratigraphic, structural, paleontologic, magnetic, and seismic evidenc . Normal sediments of the deep-sea floor cover basaltic basement rocks over much of the plate, but are locally dominated by a metal-rich component on and near the East Pacific Rise and within the Bauer Deep. These metalliferous sediments, which are composed of crystalline ferromanganese hydroxyoxides (goethite, psilomelane, etc) and Fe-montmorillonite, contain anomalously high concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, Ni, Zn, and other transition metals. Elemental abundances and ratios, extraordinary high rates of sedimentation, lead-isotope ratios, and statistical analysis of the data suggest that Fe, Mn, Cu, and possibly other metals were deposited by hydrothermal fluids emanating from sources of basaltic magmatism along the East Pacific Rise. However, isotopic abundances of O, Sr, S, and C and di tribution patterns of the rare-earth elements imply that deposition of the metalliferous sediments occurred at normally low temperatures of the ocean floor and that the nonmetallic components were derived from and/or equilibrated with seawater.
Intramyocardial Fibroblast Myocyte Communication

Cardiac fibroblasts are emerging as key components of normal cardiac function, as well as the response to stressors and injury. These most numerous cells of the heart interact with myocytes via paracrine mechanisms, alterations in extracellular matrix homeostasis, and direct cell-cell interactions. It is possible that they are a contributor to the inability of adult myocytes to proliferate and may influence cardiac progenitor biology. Furthering our understanding of how cardiac fibroblasts and myocytes interact may provide an avenue to novel treatments for heart failure prevention. This review discusses the most recent concepts in cardiac fibroblast-myocyte communication and areas of potential future research.
Validity and Validation in the Making in the Context of Qualitative Research

In this article, I focus on two ways of conceptualizing validity and validation, by using reductionist and (e)pistemological approaches, respectively. I question some common understandings of reductionist validation and describe an (e)pistemological standpoint that provides an alternative to reductionist views. In addition, I argue that validity and validation, as concepts, are tools rather than reflections of truth. Furthermore, fallibility, which is embedded in all views of validity and validation, can be compensated with pluralism, as well as acceptance, coexistence, and collaboration with the Other.
Design of a Wideband Vivaldi Antenna Array

Phased arrays for use in future multifunction systems require wideband elements capable of wide angle scanning. Here we describe the design of a Balance Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna for use in large phased array antenna apertures. The BAVA element height and the array lattice spacing are about λ/2 at the high frequency end of a grating-lobe free operating band. BAVA elements do not require connection with adjacent elements and are therefore attractive for use in phased arrays with modular construction.