cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interactions of phosphorus, magnesium and zinc on the yield and nutrient content of maize

Five Zn-deficient soils designated A–E (pH 7·3–7·7) and a reference soil F (pH 7·6) were used in a glasshouse study on maize in which five fertilizer treatments: 75 μg P/g alone and together with all combinations of 0 and 5 μg/g of Mg and Zn and with 10 μg Mg + 5 μg Zn/g and a control were applied. The forage yield of soils A–E ranged from 2·5 to 2·9 g when no Zn was applied and from 5·1 to 5·6 g with added Zn, showing that Zn was the major limiting nutrient. Applied Mg significantly increased yield, the main exceptions being soils D and E which had the highest exchangeable Mg.Addition of Mg to a P but not PZn treatment significantly increased P concentration and uptake. For soils B and E, Zn addition significantly depressed P concentration in maize. The P treatment significantly depressed Zn concentration but increased Mg concentration and uptake by maize. Although Mg application either depressed or had no effect on Mg content of maize, it caused a significant increase in Zn concentration and uptake. The correlation coefficient (r) between Zn and Mg in maize was – 0·61 (P < 0·001). Possibly, Mg was replacing Zn in the clay lattice or in its metallo-protein complex within the root.
Measuring pain as the 5th vital sign does not improve quality of pain management

BACKGROUND: To improve pain management, the Veterans Health Administration launched the “Pain as the 5th Vital Sign” initiative in 1999, requiring a pain intensity rating (0 to 10) at all clinical encounters.
Climate response of the South Asian monsoon system to anthropogenic aerosols

The equilibrium climate response to the total effects (direct, indirect and semi-direct effects) of aerosols arising from anthropogenic and biomass burning emissions on the South Asian summer monsoon system is studied using a coupled atmosphere-slab ocean model. Our results suggest that anthropogenic and biomass burning aerosols generally induce a reduction in mean summer monsoon precipitation over most parts of the Indian subcontinent, strongest along the western coastline of the Indian peninsula and eastern Nepal region, but modest increases also occur over the north western part of the subcontinent. While most of the noted reduction in precipitation is triggered by increased emissions of aerosols from anthropogenic activities, modest increases in the north west are mostly associated with decreases in local emissions of aerosols from forest fire and grass fire sources. Anthropogenic aerosols from outside Asia also contribute to the overall reduction in precipitation but the dominant contribution comes from aerosol sources within Asia. Local emissions play a more important role in the total rainfall response to anthropogenic aerosol sources during the early monsoon period, whereas both local as well as remote emissions of aerosols play almost equally important roles during the later part of the monsoon period. While precipitation responses aremore » primarily driven by local aerosol forcing, regional surface temperature changes over the region are strongly influenced by anthropogenic aerosols from sources further away (non-local changes). Changes in local anthropogenic organic and black carbon emissions by as much as a factor of two (preserving their ratio) produce the same basic signatures in the model's summer monsoon temperature and precipitation responses.« less
An unusual case of cardiac amyloidosis

To the Editors:—The authors described an unusual case of cardiac amyloidosis and proposed a diagnostic algorithm that investigates amyloid deposition in other organs and cardiac assessment by echocardiography and endomyocardial biopsy. We note that in the proposed diagnostic work up of patients with suspected cardiac amyloidosis, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) was not included. We believe that CMR should be considered in the armamentarium of clinical available noninvasive imaging techniques that is worth mentioning. Cardiac amyloidosis can be diagnostically challenging, and our group has pioneered and investigated the role of CMR in detecting noninvasively amyloid deposition in the myocardium.1 Because of its unique capability of tissue characterization after the injection of gadolinium-chelate contrast agent, CMR shows a characteristic pattern of distribution of global subendocardial myocardial enhancement of the left ventricle. This finding corresponds to the transmural histologic distribution of amyloid protein confirmed at autopsy (dominantly subendocardial).1 The role of CMR in cardiac amyloidosis has been confirmed by other groups.2,3 Serum amyloid P component (SAP) scan is considered an effective noninvasive tool for diagnosis systemic AL amyloidosis but is not adequate for evaluating cardiac involvement.4 CMR is not available at all centers and requires experienced personnel, and therefore, biopsy remains the gold standard technique to diagnose amyloidosis in most centers. Ideally, a biopsy guided to the gadolinium-enhanced areas might reduce the potential of false negative biopsy result in these patients. Unfortunately, the patient discussed in the case description had a pacemaker, which represents one of few contraindications for a CMR scan.
Drosophila fushi tarazu: a gene on the border of homeotic function

Abstract Background: Hox genes specify cell fate and regional identity during animal development. These genes are present in evolutionarily conserved clusters thought to have arisen by gene duplication and divergence. Most members of the Drosophila Hox complex (HOM-C) have homeotic functions. However, a small number of HOM-C genes, such as the segmentation gene fushi tarazu ( ftz ), have nonhomeotic functions. If these genes arose from a homeotic ancestor, their functional properties must have changed significantly during the evolution of modern Drosophila . Results: Here, we have asked how Drosophila ftz evolved from an ancestral homeotic gene to obtain a novel function in segmentation. We expressed Ftz proteins at various developmental stages to assess their potential to regulate segmentation and to generate homeotic transformations. Drosophila Ftz protein has lost the inherent ability to mediate homeosis and functions exclusively in segmentation pathways. In contrast, Ftz from the primitive insect Tribolium (Tc-Ftz) has retained homeotic potential, generating homeotic transformations in larvae and adults and retaining the ability to repress homothorax , a hallmark of homeotic genes. Similarly, Schistocerca Ftz (Sg-Ftz) caused homeotic transformations of antenna toward leg. Primitive Ftz orthologs have moderate segmentation potential, reflected by weak interactions with the segmentation-specific cofactor Ftz-F1. Thus, Ftz orthologs represent evolutionary intermediates that have weak segmentation potential but retain the ability to act as homeotic genes. Conclusions: ftz evolved from an ancestral homeotic gene as a result of changes in both regulation of expression and specific alterations in the protein-coding region. Studies of ftz orthologs from primitive insects have provided a "snap-shot" view of the progressive evolution of a Hox protein as it took on segmentation function and lost homeotic potential. We propose that the specialization of Drosophila Ftz for segmentation resulted from loss and gain of specific domains that mediate interactions with distinct cofactors.
MPS specific physical symptom score and daily living skills in MPS VI

understanding of the role of the patient's medical problems in their quality-of-life and psychological status and for use as a treatment outcome measure. We have developed a Physical Symptom Score (PSS) by quantifying the medical history, and validated the PSS with qualityof-life (QOL) and daily living skills (DLS) measures. We hypothesize that a summative history of medical problems in multiple organ systems as reflected in the PSS is associatedwith ability to carry out daily living skills and with quality-of-life outcomes. Our subjects, all participants in an MPS longitudinal study, were 43MPS I patients (Hurler syndrome= 26, attenuated= 17) aged 5.3 to 25.5 years, and treated with either hematopoietic cell transplant or enzyme replacement therapy. Medical and treatment histories were taken by the first author using the study medical history case report forms. Clinical files were reviewed to check accuracy and obtain additional medical information. A scoring system was devised to include frequency and severity of the organ system involvement in four medical domains: skeletal/orthopedic, vision, hearing, and cardio-respiratory. The scoring system also quantified the patient's number of surgical procedures using general anesthesia, and the absence or presence of hydrocephalus, with or without shunt placement. To validate the PSS, assessment tools called the Child Health Questionnaire Parent Form 50 (CHQ-PF50) and the Vineland Adaptive Behavioral Scales (VABS) Second Edition were administered as proxies for the daily living skills and quality-of-life domains. To document the inter-rater reliability of the MPS Specific Physical Symptom Score, a second examiner independently scored, and the inter-rater score agreement was 100%. The PSS of the 43 MPS I patients was negatively correlated with DLS (r= -0.67) and QOL (r = -0.52) in the MPS attenuated patient group. For the Hurler patient group the PSS was slightly negatively correlated with QOL (r = -0.33), but was uncorrelated with DLS. We have demonstrated the reliability of the PSS and the validity of the scale for MPS attenuated patients. While a small negative correlation was found with the QOL in Hurler syndrome, no relationship was found with DLS. Explanations might include: 1) the medical problems occurred mostly around the time of hematopoietic cell transplant, with more subsequent elapsed time than in the attenuated patients; 2) differing expectations of parents between the two groups; and 3) hematopoietic cell transplant yields more medical stability over time. The next step is to include a larger MPS I sample to see whether these results can be replicated, and to examine the role of parental expectations and long-term medical symptom stability. (Supported by the Lysosomal Disease Network, NIH U54NS065768).
Macroscopic shape change and evolution of crystallographic texture in pre-textured FCC metals

Abstract T he accuracy of a Taylor-type constitutive model and computational procedures for polycrystalline materials in predicting the deformation response of initially pre-textured OFHC copper is evaluated. An approximate procedure for the characterization of the state of pre-textured fcc materials is developed. This procedure, when applied to a pre-textured OFHC copper, produced a characterization of the state of this material which is of reasonable accuracy for engineering purposes. Our mathematical models and procedures use this characterization of the initial state of the pre-textured copper to predict the macroscopic stress-strain behavior, crystallographic texture evolution and macroscopic shape change in subsequent nominally homogeneous and non-homogeneous experiments. The predictions from our mathematical procedures are found to be in good first-order accord with corresponding experimental measurements for this fcc material.
Synchronous motors for special loads

The field of the synchronous motor can be considerably widened by variations in the design of normal motors of this type. Special requirements in starting current and in starting, pull-in, and pull-out torque can be met without resorting to unusual forms of motor design.
Isolation and assay of corn root membrane vesicles with reduced proton permeability

Abstract Conditions promoting the formation of sealed membrane vesicles from corn roots with reduced proton permeability were examined using the probe 9-aminoacridine as a rapid indicator of pH gradient formation and dissipation. Plasma membrane vesicles isolated by differential and density gradient centrifugation were leaky to protons and rapidly equilibrated when exposed to artificially imposed pH gradients. The leaky plasma membrane vesicles showed reduced proton permeability when incubated with calcium or with excess phospholipids. However, these vesicles were unable to form ATP-induced pH gradients. Sealed vesicles isolated by discontinuous Ficoll gradient centrifugation of a microsomal fraction displayed reduced proton permeability and were osmotically active. In contrast to purified plasma membrane vesicles, the microsomal-derived vesicles were more suitable for studies of active proton transport.
Cutting rectangles avoiding rectangular defects

Abstract In the real world (i.e., steel industry) we can find cutting problems where rectangles are to be cut by guillotine cuts from master rectangles such that rectangular defect areas are to be avoided. The classical solution of the maximum empty rectangle problem is often not sufficient for these real world problems. The aim of this paper is therefore to find all usable restricted rectangles and not the maximum empty rectangle only.
The molecular and cellular biology of thrombopoietin: the primary regulator of platelet production

The term thrombopoietin (TPO) was first coined in 1958 and used to describe the humoral substance responsible for causing the platelet count to rise in response to thrombocytopenic stimuli. Despite much progress during the 1980s in the purification and characterization of the humoral regulators of lymphocyte, erythrocyte, monocyte and granulocyte production, the successful search to purify and molecularly clone thrombopoietin did not begin until the oncogene v-mpl was discovered in 1990. Since that time the proto-oncogene c-mpl was identified and, based on homology arguments, believed to encode a hematopoietic cytokine receptor, a hypothesis later proven when the cytoplasmic domain was linked to the ligand binding domain of the IL-4 receptor and shown to support the IL-4 induced growth of hematopoietic cells (Skoda et al., 1993). Finally, two different strategies using c-mpl lead to the identification of a novel ligand for the receptor in 1994 (de Sauvage et al., 1994; Lok et al., 1994; Bartley et al., 1994), a protein that displays all the biologic properties of TPO. This review attempts to distill what has been learned of the molecular and cellular biology of TPO and its receptor during the past several years, and links this information to several new insights into human disease and its treatment.
Influence of the Embryonic Axis on Protein Hydrolysis in Cotyledons of Cucurbita maxima

Four-day time course studies of the hydrolysis of cotyledonal storage protein were conducted on intact seeds, seed cotyledons detached from their embryonic axes and on detached cotyledon pairs germinated in the presence of three excised embryonic axes of Cucurbita maxima Duch., cv. Chicago Worted Hubbard. Detached cotyledons germinated alone showed little hydrolysis of the storage protein. However, the amount of protein hydrolysis of the detached cotyledon pairs germinated in the presence of three excised embryonic axes was comparable to the amount hydrolyzed in the cotyledons of intact germinating seeds. Visual growth differences among these treatments were also evident. The size and yellow color intensity of the fourth day treatments were shown to increase in the following order: detached cotyledon pairs alone, intact seedlings, detached cotyledon pairs in the presence of three excised axes. The growth of the hypocotyl and radical was also modified by removal of the cotyledons. These findings suggest that storage protein degradation and cotyledonal growth are controled by the axis. They also indicate that the cotyledons have some influence on the growth of the axes. Time-course studies were made on the hydrolysis of storage protein in the cotyledons of squash and on the distribution of the hydrolytic products during the germination of light- and dark-grown plants. The storage protein was not hydrolyzed during the first 24 hours. It was hydrolyzed at a uniform rate from 1 to 5 days and at a slightly decreased rate from 5 to 7 days. Most of the hydrolytic products were transported to the axial tissue. Proteinase activity in the cotyledons rapidly increased during germination to a maximum level at 2 to 3 days. This was followed by a decline to about the initial value after 7 days.
Intestinal absorption of fat

Divergent views on the mechanism of fat absorption that prevailed during the past 100 years have recently narrowed to a concept in which most investigators concur. This subject has been recently reviewed (Johnston 1963, Clement 1964, Senior 1964). The distinct (phases of the digestion and absorption of fats will be discussed in the following sections.
Parallel algorithm for target recognition using a multiclass hash database

A method for recognition of unknown targets using large databases of model targets is discussed. Our approach is based on parallel processing of multi-class hash databases that are generated off-line. A geometric hashing technique is used on feature points of model targets to create each class database. Bit level coding is then performed to represent the models in an image format. Parallelism is achieved during the recognition phase. Feature points of an unknown target are passed to parallel processors each accessing an individual class database. Each processor reads a particular class of hash data base and indexes feature points of the unknown target. A simple voting technique is applied to determine the best match model with the unknown. The paper discusses our technique and the results from testing with unknown FLIR targets.
A New Approach to the Assay of Alkaloidal Crude Drugs. II. Ipecac

Abstract A new method is proposed for the assay of ipecac. The alkaloids are extracted, puri-fied, and separated into phenolic and nonphenolic fractions by means of ion exchange resins. The method is simple and gives results which are appreciably higher than those obtained by the official procedure.
Background changes delay information represented in macaque V1 neurons.

In natural behavioral situations, saccadic eye movements not only introduce new stimuli into V1 receptive fields, they also cause changes in the background. We recorded in awake macaque V1 using a ...
Do Student Learning Styles Translate to Different ''Testing Styles''?

Professors seem to be more aware of different student learning styles than ever before and are utilizing various teaching techniques in order to appeal to different students in their classes. Unfortunately, presenting materials is only one side of the coin, while the other side—assessment—has not received the same amount of attention. After all, if teachers can agree that students have different methods for learning, does it not stand to reason that they have different methods of reproducing this knowledge as well? This article makes a case for more diverse assessment techniques within the same course, connecting our knowledge on individual learning styles to a theory of “testing styles.” By allowing students to choose between different formats for participation, exams, and other assignments, educators acknowledge students' individual styles and allow them to show what they really know as opposed to how well they take tests. The author's major claims are supported by the results of an experimental design ...
POLYCULTURE OF FRESHWATER PRAWNS, TILAPIA, CHANNEL CATFISH AND CHINESE CARPS

Juvenile freshwater prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii), fingerling channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), young-of-the-year tilapia (Tilapia spp.), F-1 hybrid Chinese carp (female Aristichthys nobilis x male Hypopthalmichthys molitrix), and grass carp (Ctenopharynqodon idella) were costocked into four replicate 0.05-ha earthen ponds in 1983 and 1984 and cultured for 124–150 days, respectively. Stocking densities of prawns (20,000/ha), tilapia (2,500/ha), and grass carp (120/ha) were held constant during both years. However, in 1984 stocking densities of channel catfish and hybrid carp were reduced to 7,500/ha and 160/ha, respectively. Throughout each study, a commercial floating catfish feed containing 32% protein was broadcast into the ponds daily at 1600 hours. Feeding rates were adjusted daily to a maximum of 56 kg/ha/day in 1983 and 41 kg/ha/day in 1984. Average net production figures were strikingly similar during both years–3,180 kg/ha in 1983 and 3,150 kg/ha in 1984. Mean feed conversion values for all species combined were 1.4:1.0 and 1.0:1.0 in 1983 and 1984, respectively. Net production and mean individual weights of component species during 1983 were: prawns (445 kg/ha, x = 30 g), channel catfish (1,411 kg/ha, x = 180 g), tilapia (653 kg/ha, x = 284 g), hybrid carp (546 kg/ha, x = 1,186 g), and grass carp (127 kg/ha, x = 1,337 9). Net production and mean individual weights in 1984 were: prawns (287 kg/ha, x = 19 g), channel catfish (1,698 kg/ha, x = 263 g), tilapia (522 kg/ha, x = 291 g), hybrid carp (389 kg/ha, x = 4,430 g), and grass carp (253 kg/ha, x = 2,924 g). Mean survival of component species ranged from a low of 72.9% for tilapia in 1984 to 100% for grass carp in 1983 and 1984.
Use of hop (Humulus lupulus) agricultural by-products for the reduction of aqueous lead(II) environmental health hazards.

Abstract The agricultural by-products of the hop plant ( Humulus lupulus L.) were investigated to determine their potential for use in the removal of heavy lead(II) ions from contaminated aqueous solutions. Separate batch laboratory experiments were performed to establish the optimal binding pH, time exposures, and capacity of the metal adsorption for lead(II) ions by dried and ground hop leaves and stems biomass. Results from these studies have shown a pH dependent binding trend from pH 2–6, with optimum binding occurring around pH 5.0. Time dependency experiments showed a rapid adsorption of lead(II) ions within the first 5 min of contact. Binding capacity experiments demonstrated that 74.2 mg of lead(II) were bound per gram of leaf biomass. Similarly overall capacity was seen for the leaves and stems. Desorption of 99% of the bound lead(II) ions was achieved by exposing the metal laden biomass to 0.5 M sodium citrate. Further experiments were performed with silica-immobilized hop tissues to determine the lead(II) binding ability under flow conditions. Comparison studies were performed with ion-exchange resins to evaluate the binding ability and to gain further insight into the metal binding mechanism. X-ray absorption spectroscopy experiments were also utilized to gain further insight into the possible lead(II) binding mechanism by the hop plant tissue. Results from these studies indicate that carboxyl ligands are involved in the binding of lead(II) from aqueous solution. These findings show that the use of hop agricultural waste products may be a viable alternative, for the removal and recovery of aqueous lead(II) ions from contaminated waters.
Verification of an Atmospheric Mixed-Layer Model for a Coastal Region

Abstract An evaluation of the ability of an integrated (slab) marine atmospheric boundary-layer (MABL) model to predict changes in the inversion and mixed-layer temperature and humidity using data from the Los Angeles-San Diego Basin is described. The model microphysics and initialization methods are evaluated separately. The Stage and Businger stratocumulus entrainment closure formulation is used. Standard radiative flux approximations (e.g., delta-Eddington) are employed with up-to-date cloud microphysical parameterizations. The assumption of well-mixed properties is relaxed to permit a constant vertical gradient that is a function of the surface flux and the entrainment rate. Initialization of the subsidence rate receives considerable attention and is analyzed using data from suitably spaced multiple stations and from a single station. Two cases, a cloud covered and a clear sky period, are examined. In both cases the island and shoreline data are from regularly reporting locations and from a research s...
Fiber laser drilling of Ni46Mn27Ga27 ferromagnetic shape memory alloy

Abstract The interest in ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (SMAs), such as NiMnGa, is increasing, thanks to the functional properties of these smart and functional materials. One of the most evident properties of these systems is their brittleness, which makes attractive the study of unconventional manufacturing processes, such as laser machining. In this work the interaction of laser beam, once focalized on the surface of Ni46Mn27Ga27 [at%] alloy, has been studied. The experiments were performed with a single laser pulse, using a 1 kW continuous wave fiber laser. The morphology of the laser machined surfaces was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy, coupled with energetic dispersion spectroscopy for the measurement of the chemical composition. The results showed that the high quality of the laser beam, coupled with great irradiances available, allow for blind or through holes to be machined on 1.8 mm plates with a single pulse in the order of a few ms. Holes were produced with size in the range of 200–300 μm; despite the long pulse duration, low amount of melted material is produced around the hole periphery. No significant variation of the chemical composition has been detected on the entrance surfaces while the exit ones have been characterized by the loss of Ga content, due to its melting point being significantly lower with respect to the other alloying elements.
Augmentative Releases of Metaphycus sp. nr flavus Against Citricola Scale on Oranges in the San Joaquin Valley of California: Are Early Releases Better Than Late Ones?

Abstract We conducted an augmentative release trial with the encyrtid parasitoid Metaphycus sp. nr flavus (Howard) against citricola scale, Coccus pseudomagniolarum (Kuwana), in three citrus orchards in the San Joaquin Valley of California. Three parasitoid release timings (14 October–13 November, 4 January–5 February, and 26 February–16 March; hereinafter “early,” “intermediate,” and “late”) were compared with a no-release check. Approximately 2,400 female parasitoids were released per central release tree. Late releases were associated with reduced scale survival on the release trees but no evidence of scale suppression was found on adjacent trees. Early and intermediate releases resulted in less pronounced scale suppression than late releases. Intermediate and late, but not early, releases were associated with an increase in the numbers of recovered female M. sp. nr flavus. Early releases, however, increased the numbers of recovered male Metaphycus spp. Thus, at the time of early releases, the scales m...
Physically based sensitivity derivatives for finite-element programs

Attention is given to a virtual-work approach to the definition of sensitivity in terms of physical quantities; sensitivity fields are treated as a solution to loadings that consist of body forces, initial strains, and initial stresses. The method can accordingly be implemented in a finite element package, with only minimal knowledge of its programming detail and without access to its source code. The application of the approach to one- and two-dimensional problems is demonstrated. The sensitivity of the structural response for truss structures was computed with respect to the cross-sectional areas of the members.
Model to Estimate Pavement Structural Number at Network Level with Rolling Wheel Deflectometer Data

Nondestructive testing provides key information about the structural integrity and the capacity of in-service pavements. The rolling wheel deflectometer (RWD) was introduced to support existing nondestructive testing techniques by providing a screening tool for structurally deficient pavements at the network level. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a direct and simple model for determining the pavement structural number (SN) by using RWD deflection data. To achieve this objective, the relationship between the average RWD surface deflection and the peak falling weight deflectometer (FWD) deflection was investigated. The developed model correlated pavement SN with three RWD-measured properties: average and standard deviation of RWD deflection and RWD index. The developed model was fitted to RWD data collected in 16 road sections (each 1.5 mi long), referred to as research sites, in Louisiana. The model was then validated on the basis of data from the FWD and RWD collected on 52 road se...
Role Of The Retinex

The retinex is the name given to each of four independent systems. Each of these uses a liaison between the whole area of the retina, the pathway to the cortex, and the cortex to generate what we call objects in the outer world. Each of the systems is rigorously independent of the others although the band of wavelengths used by each overlaps rather broadly the bands used by the others. The colors of the objects generated are determined by the comparison, presumably cortical, of the four different constructs produced by the four retinexes. Each of the retinexes associated with the left eye has a sister retinex associated with the right eye, and these pairs impose a geometric rigidity on the space created by the retinal-cortical system.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Lack of ventricular remodeling in non-Q-wave myocardial infarction

We prospectively examined 45 patients with serial echocardiography to measure left ventricular end-diastolic volume index within 1 week and at 6 weeks after infarction. Left ventricular volume increased in patients with Q-wave infarction but not in those with non-Q or in control patients without recent infarction. Peak creatine phosphokinase levels were greater in Q-wave infarction compared with those in non-Q-wave infarction. There was a strong correlation between the change in the left ventricular end-diastolic index and the peak creatine phosphokinase level. After correcting for infarct size, there was still a difference between the two groups. Our data indicate that ventricular remodeling does not occur in non-Q-wave as opposed to Q-wave infarcts, and this may be related both to the limited amount of myocardial necrosis and to the nontransmural extent of the necrosis.
Depletion of serotonin using p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) and reserpine protects against the neurotoxic effects of p-chloroamphetamine (PCA) in the brain

The present study attempts to determine whether the neurotoxicity of p-chloroamphetamine (PCA) is dependent on a releasable pool of serotonin (5-HT). Rats treated with PCA alone or with reserpine and PCA exhibit a profound loss of 5-HT innervation in cerebral cortex after a 2-week survival period. However, depletion of 5-HT by combined treatment with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) and reserpine provides substantial protection against the neurotoxic effects of PCA. These results indicate that release of 5-HT is a necessary step in the neurotoxicity of PCA and that a peripheral source of 5-HT is involved. We suggest that 5-HT release from platelets into the peripheral circulation may result in the formation of a neurotoxic 5-HT metabolite.
Consistency of Maximum Likelihood Parameter Estimation for Bivariate Markov Chains

A bivariate Markov chain comprises a pair of random processes which are jointly, but not necessarily individually, Markov. We are interested in continuous-time finite-alphabet bivariate Markov chains. Only one of the two processes of the bivariate Markov chain is observable. The observable process, and the other underlying process, may jump simultaneously. Examples of bivariate Markov chains include the Markov modulated Poisson process, and the batch Markovian arrival process, when suitable modulo counts are applied. An Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm for maximum likelihood estimation of the parameter of a bivariate Markov chain was recently developed. Here we prove strong consistency of maximum likelihood parameter estimation for the bivariate Markov chain. We extend the proofs developed by Leroux for hidden Markov processes and by Ryden for Markov modulated Poisson processes, to bivariate Markov chains. Such chains do not generally have a hidden Markov process representation.
Evaluation of drought and heat stressed grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) for ethanol production

Abstract Sorghum is one of the most drought-tolerant grain crops and is used in biofuel production. Since sorghum is often exposed to drought and high temperature (heat) stress, this study investigated the effect of stress applied at different phenological stages of crop development on the glucose levels in grain and subsequent ethanol production. Short season sorghum hybrid DK-28E grown under controlled environment was exposed to drought and heat stress at five different stages of growth, namely: (1) pre-flowering (boot leaf emergence) to flowering, (2) flower to seed-set, (3) seed-set to early seed-fill, (4) early seed-fill to mid seed-fill, and (5) mid seed-fill to late seed-fill stage. Drought stress at any of the growth stages did not statistically affect either the glucose content or the ethanol production compared to the control (337 mg/g), although the ethanol yield increased up to 4.5% (352 mg/g) in flowering to seed-set stage. Heat stress, on the other hand, significantly reduced the glucose release and ethanol yield compared to the control (322 mg/g). Marginal ethanol yield reduction by 9% (293 mg/g) and 8.3% (295 mg/g) was seen in plants stressed during early seed-fill to mid seed-fill and mid seed-fill to late seed-fill stages, respectively. The results suggest that the phenological stage when sorghum is exposed to stress affects the ethanol yield. Overall, from the point of ethanol yield, it appears that grain sorghum cultivated in semi-arid regions where heat and drought stress are prevalent can be used for biofuel production. However, economic viability of ethanol production, especially of grain sorghum from high temperature stress needs to be investigated.
Olfactory response characteristics and tuning structure of placodes in the honey bee Apis mellifera L

On sait peu de choses concernant la detection des odeurs non pheromonales par les neurones sensoriels de l'abeille parce que: - isoler l'activite individuelle des neurones recepteurs olfactifs est techniquement difficile et que - la majorite des etudes portant sur l'olfaction des insectes s'est focalisee sur les questions relatives a la detection des pheromones sexuelles ou d'agregation plutot qu'a celle des odeurs ordinaires. Nous discutons ici de la detection des odeurs ordinaires dans un contexte general
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplants for Multiple Myeloma

Standard chemotherapy with melphalan-prednisone or a combination of alkylating agents has not extended the overall survival of patients with multiple myeloma during the last 30 years and strictly defined complete remissions (CR) are exceedingly rare. The early mortality with conventional therapy varies between 2 and 10 percent. A substantial increase in the dose of melphalan (100–140 mg/m2) has resulted in a 30–45% CR rate in newly diagnosed patients and an overall survival advantage of approximately 1 year. However, treatment related morbidity and mortality, due to prolonged cy-topenia was unacceptably high. Based on these findings the dose intensity was further increased by either escalating melphalan to 200 mg/m2 or by adding total body irradiation, while at the same time providing stem cell support to shorten the duration of cytopenia. Autologous transplants, especially with peripheral blood stem cells and hematopoietic growth factors, can now be performed safely up to the age of 70 with a low transpl...
Image restoration using the damped Richardson-Lucy method

The Richardson-Lucy iteration (also known as the EM iteration for image restoration with Poisson statistics) is the most widely used image restoration technique for optical astronomical data. Like all maximum likelihood methods, it suffers from noise amplification in the restored images. Previously suggested methods for dealing with this problem (stopping the iteration early or smoothing the final image) have serious drawbacks for astronomical applications. This paper describes a new image restoration iteration based on the RL method that reduces noise amplification. The method is based on a modified form of the Poisson likelihood function that is flatter in the vicinity of a good fit. The resulting iteration is very similar to the RL iteration, but includes a new spatially adaptive damping factor that prevents noise amplification in regions of the image where a smooth model provides an adequate fit to the data; thus, I call this the `damped Richardson-Lucy iteration.' The damped iteration converges more rapidly than the RL method and can be accelerated using the same techniques as the standard RL iteration. Results are shown for both simulated data and Hubble Space Telescope images.
Measurement of π- and π+ photoproduction in deuterium at large momentum transfer for E = 1.7-5.6 GeV

Single-π − and -π + photoproduction from deuterium has been measured at energies E = 1.7−5.6 GeV and momentum transfers |t|= 0.4−5.6 (GeV/c)2. The ratio π −/π + for data taken at E = 3.4 GeV is presented. Also the ratio of the π + from hydrogen to the π + from deuterium is extracted to examine the nucleon spectator assumption used in the cross-section ratio analysis. Results are discussed in conjunction with the existing measurements with frameworks ranging from a hadronic description to parton constituent models which successfully characterize the scaling behaviors observed in the exclusive measurements.
Life events occurring in families of children with recurrent abdominal pain

Abstract Thirty children with recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) were compared to 67 behaviorally disordered (BD) children and 42 healthy children on number of life events experienced within the last 12 months and on amount of readjustment necessitated by these life events. The parents of these children were also compared on these variables as well as on a subjective rating of stress which they assigned to the life events. The results revealed that the children in the RAP and BD groups had significantly more life events and more stress associated with them than did the healthy children. However, the children in the RAP and BD groups differed in type of life events, with the RAP group more likely to have experienced life events related to illness, hospitalization, and death. There were no significant differences between the parents in the RAP group and the parents of the two comparisons groups. Due to methodological limitations of the study, caution should be exercised in drawing conclusions from these findings until such time that future research provides confirmatory data.
Ultracentrifugation Studies of Milk Heated to Sterilization Temperatures

Summary The effect of heating milk on the sedimentation of protein particles was studied. Pictures taken of sediment during ultracentrifugation were measured to determine sedimentation constants in Svedberg units which were calculated for the last measured fractions of sediment thrown from solution at 10,000G. Heating was done as follows : A. Milk was preheated at 180±0.5° F. for 30min., then in 2.08sec. heated to 300±0.5° F., and held for 2.08sec., homogenized, and cooled. B. Same as A, except milk was sterilized at 285±0.5° F. C. Milk was preheated to 180° F. in 2.08sec., then heated to 300 ±. 0.5° F. in 2.08sec., and held for 2.08sec., homogenized, and cooled. D. Same as C, except milk was sterilized at 285±0.5° F. Constants for raw milk and the same milk with increasing heat treatments were, respectively, 440; 630; 844; 1,355; and 2,277×10 −13 . Corresponding constants for the first half of sediment were 1,900; 2,700; 3,700; 3,800; and 6,600×10 −13 . After storage at 40° F. for 72 days, the maximum volume of sediment was approximately 10% greater; whereas, the volume of sediment from the same milks stored at 70 and 100° F. the same length of time was less than the initial sediment. After storage for 71 days at 100° F., sedimentation constants for volumes of sediment equal to the respective volumes upon which constants for the first half of the sediment were calculated in freshly processed milks were 1,100, 1,300, 2,200, and 3,700×10 −13 , indicating the degree of dissociation of the larger particles during storage.
A survey of interfering shoulder pain in United States competitive swimmers

The prevalence of shoulder pain in United States competitive swimmers has not been extensively surveyed but is perceived as common. To evaluate this concern, a questionnaire survey was conducted on 1262 United States swimmers: 993 age group, 198 senior development, and 71 national team athletes. We sought to identify the incidence of interfering shoulder pain in this population and how it is influenced by various training tasks. The prevalence of current shoulder pain in these groups varied between 10% (age group) to 26% (national team) and increased with time in the sport. In those athletes with a painful shoulder, weight training, use of hand paddles, kickboard use, stretching, and various resistance activities aggravated the painful shoulder. This survey has identified that interfering shoulder pain is present in a substantial number of competitive swimmers.
Reaction cross sections of 85Rb(n, γ) 86mRb, 87Rb(n, γ) 88Rb, and 89Y(n, γ) 90mY between 0·16 MeV and 1·5 MeV

Abstract Fast neutron capture cross sections of 85 Rb( n , γ) 86 m Rb, 87 Rb( n , γ) 88 Rb and 89 Y(n, γ) 90 m Y have been measured by the activation technique as a function of neutron energy between 160 keV and 1·5 MeV. These cross sections were measured relative to both the 235 U( n, f ) and the 197 Au( n , γ) 198 Au cross section. Neutrons were produced by the 7 Li( p, n ) 7 Be reaction from a Van de Graaff accelerator. The data of the 87 Rb( n , γ) 88 Rb reaction have been compared to calculations based upon the statistical compound nucleus model of nuclear reactions. For this case, the theory is able to fit the experimental data very accurately.
Interactive Visual Data Abstraction in a Declarative Visual Programming Language

Abstract Visual data abstraction is the concept of data abstraction for visual languages. In this paper, first we discuss how the requirements of data abstraction for visual languages differ from the requirements for traditional textual languages. We then present a declarative approach to visual data abstraction in the language Forms/3. Within the context of this system, issues of particular importance to declarative visual languages are examined. These issues include enforcing information hiding through visual techniques, supporting abstraction while preserving concreteness, conceptual simplicity and specification of a type's appearance and interactive behavior as part of its definition. Interactive behavior is seen to be part of the larger problem of event-handling in a declarative language. A significant feature is that all programming and execution are done in a fully-integrated visual manner, without requiring other languages or tools for any part of the programming process.
Condillac and the History of Rhetoric

Abstract: Four decades after the publication of Locke9s Essay Concerning Human Understanding (5th ed.), a French text appeared which attempted to revise and perfect Lockean theory. This text, the 1746 Essay on the Origin of Human Understanding by Etienne Bonnot, Abbee de Condillac (1714r––80), and several later works by the same author add to Lockean theory what Locke himself suggests but never fully carries out, a developmental account of understanding. But Condillac9s developmentalism results in dual rhetorics——an aesthetic, expressive rhetoric and an empirical, referential rhetoric. This article discusses aesthetic expressivism in Condillac in relation to his speculations about the origins of language, with that discussion linked to the familiar opposition of referential scientific and expressive literary language.
Abuse of HIV/AIDS-relief funds in Mozambique.

This letter discusses the increase in corruption in Mozambique with the millions of dollars in funds from US Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. It explains that the corruption results in identity theft of HIV-positive people for their benefits prevention programme funds being pocketed as well as an inaccurate picture of progress in HIV/AIDS prevention results.
Effects of a combination hemoglobin based oxygen carrier-hypertonic saline solution on oxygen transport in the treatment of traumatic shock.

Abstract Background Logistics complicate fluid resuscitation of traumatic shock on the battlefield. Traumatic shock can result in oxygen debt (O 2 D) accumulation that is fatal. However, the ability of fluid strategies to repay O 2 D are not commonly reported. This pilot study examined various resuscitation fluids, including a combination of PEGylated bovine hemoglobin and hypertonic saline (AfterShock™) on their ability to repay O 2 D in traumatic shock. Methods 41 anesthetized swine underwent hemorrhage to an O 2 D of 80mL/kg. Animals received one of the following: 500mL whole blood, 500mL AfterShock™, 500mL hypertonic (7.2%) saline, 250mL hypertonic (7.2%) saline, 500mL Hetastarch (6%), or 500mL lactated Ringer's. Oxygen transport variables (O 2 D, oxygen consumption, oxygen delivery, central venous hemoglobin oxygen saturation, oxygen extraction ratios), lactate clearance, and survival were monitored for 3h after treatment. Data were analyzed using mixed-model ANOVA and comparisons were made to the performance of whole blood. Results Only animals receiving AfterShock™, 500mL hypertonic saline, and 500mL Hetastarch survived to 180min. While not statistically significant AfterShock™ demonstrated trends in improving the repayment of O 2 D and in improving oxygen transport variables despite having lower levels of global oxygen delivery compared to whole blood, Hetastarch and 500mL hypertonic saline groups. Conclusion Use of 500mL AfterShock™, 500mL of 7.2% saline or 500mL of Hetastarch resulted in improved short-term survival. While not statistically significant, AfterShock™ demonstrated trends in improving O 2 D. These findings may have implications for designing resuscitation fluids for combat casualty care.
Extraglandular manifestations of primary Sjögren's syndrome.

Sjogren syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that typically affects the salivary and lacrimal glands. Aside from the common glandular signs and symptoms, Sjogren syndrome may also cause mononuclear infiltration and immune complex deposition involving extraglandular sites producing several extraglandular manifestations (EGM). The prevalence of EGMs varies greatly depending on the particular manifestation. This article examines the ways that EGMs may present in patients with primary Sjogren syndrome. The focus is on the more prevalent and significant EGMs including involvement of the nervous system, pulmonary manifestations, vasculitis associated with primary Sjogren syndrome, and arthropathy.