cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of cholecystokinin in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility

Cholecystokinin, a hormone released from endocrine cells of the upper small intestine in response to amino acids and fatty acids in chyme, has potent effects on gut smooth muscle contractility. Depending on the region of the gut, the effect of cholecystokinin may be neurally mediated, direct, or both. Neurally-mediated effects may be relaxant or contractile depending on the transmitter released by cholecystokinin. Based on mimicry by infusion of cholecystokinin to postprandial levels and the ability of specific cholecystokinin receptor antagonists to abolish effects of endogenous cholecystokinin released in response to a meal, three physiological effects of cholecystokinin, all of which are neurally-mediated, have been identified: contraction of the gallbladder mediated by cholecystokinin-induced release of acetylcholine, relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi mediated by cholecystokinin-induced release of vasoactive intestinal peptide and inhibition of gastric emptying mediated by cholecystokinin-induced activation of an inhibitory vago-vagal reflex involving vasoactive intestinal peptide-induced relaxation of the gastric fundus. Gallbladder contraction and relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi regulate the flow of bile, and inhibition of gastric emptying regulates the flow of chyme into the duodenum. Combined with the potent stimulation of pancreatic enzyme secretion by cholecystokinin, these effects insure optimal conditions for digestion and absorption of nutrients by the intestine.
Thermodynamical properties of a paired nucleus with a fixed number of quasi-particles☆

Abstract The general formalism for the description of the properties of a paired system with fixed number of quasi-particles has been developed. The number of quasi-particles has been introduced into the pairing Hamiltonian by means of a Lagrange multiplier. The grand partition function and all the other thermodynamical functions have been derived. The formalism has been applied to the uniform model. The properties of the system in the limit of zero temperature have been obtained analytically. It has been found that for temperatures smaller than the critical temperature of the unrestricted system, a first order phase transition from the paired to the unpaired phase occurs when the quasi-particle number is increased isothermally. Above the critical temperature the transition becomes of the second order. The model also predicts that at a fixed quasi-particle number the pairing correlation increases with increasing temperature. In particular, at the highest excitation, and at small quasi-particle number, the pairing correlation is as strong as in the ground state. A rapid decrease and aa eventual disappearance of pairing occurs as the system is allowed to relax towards its equilibrium number of quasi-particles.
Degradation of tissue collagen by hot trichloroacetic acid extraction.

Abstract Hot trichloroacetic acid (TCA) extraction of aortic homogenates causes significant degradation of tissue collagen to low molecular weight polypeptides. The common practice of dialyzing the hot TCA extract before assaying hydroxyproline content may result in a significant loss of tissue collagen and thus affect interpretation of experimental data.
Frequency of spontaneous fragmentation of ova in unbred gilts.

SummaryUnfertilized ova were recovered from the reproductive tracts of 31 gilts, 2-10 days after estrus. Examination of the ova revealed that 80% of ova recovered from uterine horns were fragmented. The proportion of fragmented ova increased directly with post-ovulatory age of the ova.
Ready, set, relax: biofeedback-assisted relaxation training (BART) in a pediatric psychiatry consultation service.

Background Biofeedback-assisted relaxation training (BART) can treat several common pediatric presentations, including chronic pain and anxiety. Its effectiveness, applicability to a variety of conditions, and equipment portability make it an ideal treatment approach for use in an inpatient pediatric consultation-liaison service. Objective Since there is a paucity of published research on the utility of BART in this setting, we studied pediatric patients (≥8y), medically-admitted to Boston Children's Hospital, and referred to the Psychiatry Consultation Service for assistance in managing pain, anxiety or both. Methods The patients received at least 1 session of BART. In addition to heart rate variability and skin temperature data collection, participants completed the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale and a brief mood/affective state rating scale (Youth Feelings Scale) before and after the BART sessions. Results A total of 152 sessions were conducted with 66 patients across 11 referring services. BART was successfully used 61% of the time on the medical floor with common barriers involving patient unavailability or refusal. The patients completed an average of 1.57 sessions per admission. The post-BART session pain and mood ratings significantly improved over the presession ratings. Patients with both pain and anxiety reported the greatest changes across sessions in comparison with those with only pain or anxiety. Higher heart rate variability was observed in the "pain-only" group. Conclusions The use of BART in a consultation-liaison setting demonstrates promising utility in working with patients with pain, anxiety, or a combination of symptoms. BART was well-received by patients with subjective reports of benefit across sessions.
Modification of "A Least Mean Squares Cubic Algorithm for On-Line Differential of Sampled Analog Signals"

Modification of the original algorithm by Allum1yields a computationally efficient algorithm. The computational improvement, nominally 20 percent, is significant when real-time digital signal processing applications are involved.
OUTBREAK OF PSEUDOMONAS CEPACIA INFECTION DUE TO CONTAMINATED ANÆSTHETICS

Abstract Topical tetracaine and cocaine contaminated with Pseudomonas cepacia produced an outbreak of nosocomial respiratory-tract infection which lasted approximately a year. The source of the contamination was thought to be deionised tap-water used to dilute the anaesthetics. Ps. cepacia is becoming a frequent cause of hospital- acquired infection and its isolation should prompt investigation by hospital infection surveillance units.
A CONVENIENT METHOD FOR THE FORMOL TITRATION.

The formol titration, as described by Srrensen, 1 has been most useful in the determination of amino-acids and especially in following the course of hydrolysis of proteins. The method as originally described could not be used for accurate determinations of small quantifies of amino-acids owing to the difficulty of determining the exact end-point. The value obtained also depends on the point at which the titration is started. In the light of our present knowledge the success of the method depends upon the fact that in the presence of formalin the titration curve is displaced to the acid side to such an extent that the end-point of the titration is reached at a pH of about 9.0, where a sharp end-point is easily obtained, instead of at about 12.0, where the end-point is very indefinite owing to the buffer effect of the alkali itself. With a solution of a pure amino-acid or peptide, therefore, the titration gives directly the alkali equivalent of the compound. In the case of an unknown solution, however, it is necessary to select some arbitrary pH as the starting point. I t so happens that practically all the amino-acids and peptides whose titration curves have been studied, have an isoelectric zone around pH 6 to 7, and that the proteins also have a flat place in the titration curve in this region although it is not the isoelectric point. In practically all solutions of proteins and their split products, therefore, it is possible to obtain a sharp end-point in this range of pH. I t is, consequently, a convenient point from which to start the titration. The difficulty with the alkaline end-point is largely due to the fact that the formalin affects the color of the indicators so that it is difficult to match the standard exactly. This may be overcome by taking advantage of the property of a one color indicator which makes it possible to vary the end-point
A time‐series approach to the determination of savings rates

Time series analysis is used to study the savings rate and its determinants. The real effective exchange rate is introduced as a new independent variable in the savings function. Borrowing constraints, the current account balance, real rate of interest, macroeconomic stability, and age dependency are shown to be significant determinants of the savings rate. In addition, the real effective exchange rate is found to be significant across countries. Violations of Purchasing Power Parity are shown to explain some of the differences in savings rates between Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Inhibition of endothelial cell migration by thrombospondin-1 type-1 repeats is mediated by β1 integrins

The anti-angiogenic effect of thrombospondin-1 has been shown to be mediated through binding of the type-1 repeat (TSR) domain to the CD36 transmembrane receptor. We now report that the TSR domain can inhibit VEGF-induced migration in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), cells that lack CD36. Moreover, we identified β1 integrins as a critical receptor in TSR-mediated inhibition of migration in HUVEC. Using pharmacological inhibitors of downstream VEGF receptor effectors, we found that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3k) was essential for TSR-mediated inhibition of HUVEC migration, but that neither PLCγ nor Akt was necessary for this response. Furthermore, β1 integrins were critical for TSR-mediated inhibition of microvascular endothelial cells, cells that express CD36. Together, our results indicate that β1 integrins mediate the anti-migratory effects of TSR through a PI3k-dependent mechanism.
Pediatric Blood Volumes: A One-Page Reference Guide

At our institution, a multidisciplinary team met to work out a blood volume policy for our pediatric patients' laboratory testing. Because we are a cancer center, many of our patients are on protocols and/or are in the hospital for an extended period of time. These factors result in multiple blood draws. It is important to manage the volumes used so that we do not compromise the hematological status of our pediatric patients. The concerns of nurses and laboratory technologists were discussed and a three-tiered system was designed consisting of adult volumes, volumes for < 20-kg patients, and volumes for < 10-kg patients. Each tier consists of less blood than the one above it but the cost for such a procedure is increased. Time to conduct the draw, the cost of equipment to do the draw, and inflexibility to verify or add to the original order without resticking the patient increase at each tier. It is imperative to the overall quality of care for all patients that discretion is used when following these guidelines. When it is medically prudent to restrict the blood volumes taken from any patient, it should be done. However, when it is not medically necessary, the increased costs and potential decrease in the quality of laboratory service outweighs the desire to use smaller blood volumes.
STUDIES ON WHEAT STARCH AND WHEAT FLOUR MODEL PASTE SYSTEMS

A Brabender Visco/amylo/Graph model VA-V modified to accommodate higher torque was used to study gelatinization of wheat flour and wheat flour components in limited water concentration (solid concentration between 50.2 and 59.7%). Other solid ingredients in the mixture were sugar and molasses. Effect of ingredient variables (starch content of flour components, fraction of flour components or flour in the flour-sugar mixture, and moisture contents of the mixture) and cooking variables (rpm of the cooker, temperature above the pasting temperature, and duration of cooking after reaching the pasting temperature) on maximum consistency and consistency of the paste at the end of cooking and moisture loss during cooking were investigated. Second order polynomial equations expressing relationships between ingredient and processing parameters are developed from the experimental results. Water content, flour content of solids, and starch content of flour all affect the consistency of the flour-sugar-water paste. The pasting temperature of starch or flour in sugar solution is a function of sugar concentration.
Identification of a soluble protein stimulator of plasmalogen biosynthesis and stearoyl-coenzyme a desaturase

Abstract Stimulation of the desaturation of 1-alkyl-2-acyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (GPE), which forms ethanolamine plasmalogens, by a component of the 105,000 g supernatant has been previously reported. We have isolated the stimulatory protein and identified it as catalase. Purified rat liver catalase or commercial bovine liver catalase is as effective in stimulating microsomal 1-alkyl-2-acyl-GPE desaturation as the soluble proteins. The stimulatory effect of these proteins is eliminated by catalase inhibitors. It appears that catalase stimulates the desaturation of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-GPE by preventing inactivation of the enzyme system by H 2 O 2 or a decomposition product of H 2 O 2 . The cytochrome b 5 content and NADH oxidation are depressed in Fischer R-3259 sarcoma microsomes by H 2 O 2 ; this effect is eliminated by catalase. However, since measurable inhibition of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-GPE desaturase by H 2 O 2 still occurred in the presence of catalase, the inhibition by H 2 O 2 cannot be explained solely on the basis of cytochrome b 5 inactivation. The desaturation of stearoyl-coenzyme A, a reaction analogous in many respects to 1-alkyl-2-acyl-GPE desaturation, was also found to be stimulated by catalase.
EMG responses to an unexpected load in fast movements are delayed with an increase in the expected movement time.

When moving an object, the motor system estimates the dynamic properties of the object and then controls the movement using a combination of predictive feedforward control and proprioceptive feedba...
Effect of Different Feeding Regimes on Performance of Broiler Chickens Reared Sexes Separate or Combined

Abstract Broiler-type chickens were fed practical starter and finisher diets for different periods of time and marketed at 49 or 56 days of age. Each floor pen group of 124 birds was individually weighed at termination in order to determine variation in body weights among the sex groups. The 3 × 4 factorial arrangement included three sex groups (male, female, and combined) and four feeding regimes (1) starter 0–28 days, finisher 28–49 days; (2) starter 0–35 days, finisher 35–49 days; (3) starter 0–28 days, finisher 28–56 days; and (4) starter 0–35 days, finisher 35–56 days. Three replicate pens were placed on each treatment group. Final weights were slightly lower in the groups fed the starter diet to 35 days of age compared with those receiving it to 28 days of age, with the same trend in each sex group. Average final weights by feeding regimes were (grams): 1507, 1488, 1809, and 1785 for regimes 1 through 4, respectively; and by sex groups were 1468, 1644, and 1831 for females, combined, and males, respectively. Feed conversions in female groups were poorest overall and showed the least difference among feeding regimes, while the male groups were most efficient but showed the greatest differences among feeding regimes.
Co-occurrence of developmental disabilities with birth defects.

This article begins with a discussion of the concepts of comorbidity and co-occurrence of diseases and health conditions. These concepts are then applied to the literature on the population-based prevalence of developmental disabilities and birth defects. Most of the existing literature focuses on co-occurrence and obtains data from both clinical and administrative sources. Developmental disabilities occur more frequently in children with multiple, rather than with isolated, birth defects. More research, with more sophisticated study designs, will be necessary to further elucidate the contributions of birth defects to the etiology of developmental disabilities, control for other risk factors, and to identify strategies for prevention and intervention services.
Nitric oxide production is enhanced in rat brain before oxygen-induced convulsions.

Central nervous system oxygen toxicity (CNS O2 toxicity) is preceded by release of hyperoxic vasoconstriction, which increases regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). These increases in rCBF precede the onset of O2-induced convulsions. We have tested the hypothesis that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) stimulates NO production in the brain that leads to hyperemia and anticipates electrical signs of neurotoxicity. We measured rCBF and EEG responses in rats exposed at 4 to 6 atmospheres (ATA) of HBO2 and correlated them with brain interstitial NO metabolites (NOx) as an index of NO production. During exposures to hyperbaric oxygen rCBF decreased at 4 ATA, decreased for the initial 30 min at 5 ATA then gradually increased, and increased within 30 min at 6 ATA. Changes in rCBF correlated positively with NOx production; increases in rCBF during HBO2 exposure were associated with large increases in NOx at 5 and 6 ATA and always preceded EEG discharges as a sign of CNS O2 toxicity. In rats pretreated with l-NAME, rCBF remained maximally decreased throughout 75 min of HBO2 at 4, 5 and 6 ATA. These data provide the first direct evidence that increased NO production during prolonged HBO2 exposure is responsible for escape from hyperoxic vasoconstriction. The finding suggests that NO overproduction initiates CNS O2 toxicity by increasing rCBF, which allows excessive O2 to be delivered to the brain.
Objective measures of physical activity, white matter integrity and cognitive status in adults over age 80

The neuroprotective effects of physical activity (PA) are consistently shown in older adults, but the neural substrates, particularly in white matter (WM), are understudied, especially in very old adults with the fastest growth rate and the highest risk of dementia. This study quantified the association between PA and WM integrity in adults over 80. The moderating effects of cardiometabolic conditions, physical functional limitations and WM hyperintensities were also examined, as they can affect PA and brain integrity. Fractional anisotropy (FA) from normal-appearing WM via diffusion tensor imaging and WM hyperintensities were obtained in 90 participants (mean age = 87.4, 51.1% female, 55.6% white) with concurrent objective measures of steps, active energy expenditure (AEE in kcal), duration (min), and intensity (metabolic equivalents, METs) via SenseWear Armband. Clinical adjudication of cognitive status, prevalence of stroke and diabetes, systolic blood pressure, and gait speed were assessed at time of neuroimaging. Participants were on average sedentary (mean ± SD/day: 1766 ± 1345 steps, 202 ± 311 kcal, 211 ± 39 min, 1.8 ± 1.1 METs). Higher steps, AEE and duration, but not intensity, were significantly associated with higher FA. Associations were localized in frontal and temporal areas. Moderating effects of cardiometabolic conditions, physical functional limitations, and WM hyperintensities were not significant. Neither FA nor PA was related to cognitive status. Older adults with a sedentary lifestyle and a wide range of cardiometabolic conditions and physical functional limitations, displayed higher WM integrity in relation to higher PA. Studies of very old adults to quantify the role of PA in reducing dementia burden via WM integrity are warranted.
Mothers' arms--the past and future locus of neonatal care?

With the advent of neonatal intensive care, medical professionals inserted themselves between the baby and its family. Even for healthy newborn, the mother could only get to her infant with permission from the medical staff and then only for limited periods and in a very restricted manner. Family-centered care restored the family's right to full access to their baby, but as generally practiced (and certainly as NICUs are currently designed) medical professionals still view the infant as a solitary individual who sleeps most of the time in a bed. Future NICU design should recognize that the baby must spend most of its time in its mother's arms to get the full benefit of her sensory environment as experienced throughout our evolution. NICUs must therefore be planned to facilitate this extended proximity as much as possible (ie, not just providing for parents at the bedside with the bed as the locus of care, but transforming the preferred and predominant locus of care from the bed to the parents' arms, with the design changes inherent to that concept). Designing our units to facilitate this interaction will not assure that it will always occur, but it will guarantee that we have not created permanent structural features that interfere with this crucial relationship.
Observation and analysis of fundamental bending mode of T2O

Abstract The absorption spectrum of the ν 2 band of T 2 O vapor has been observed at 0.04 cm −1 resolution. A total of 549 transitions has been assigned; 474 of these have been used to evaluate the rotational constants A , B , and C as well as the fourth-order and sixth-order distortion constants and one eighth-order constant for the upper vibrational state.
Realizability of Graphs in Three Dimensions

This paper concludes the characterization of 3-realizable graphs begun by Belk and Connelly. A graph is 3-realizable if, for every configuration of its vertices in EN with N ≥ 3, there exists a corresponding configuration in E3 with the same edge lengths. In this paper the two graphs V8 and C5 × C2 are shown to be 3-realizable. As shown by Belk and Connelly, this means that the forbidden minors for 3-realizability are K5 and K2,2,2.A graph is d-realizable if, for every configuration of its vertices in EN, there exists a another corresponding configuration in Ed with the same edge lengths.
Porous silica AR coating for use at 248 nm or 266 nm

A porous silica antireflection coating usable at laser wavelengths of 248 and 266 nm has been produced. The transmission of the coating as a function of wavelength was measured and compared to model calculations. Procedures for producing and stabilizing the coating are briefly discussed.
Single and superimposed bedforms: a synthesis of San Francisco Bay and flume observations

Abstract Tidal currents with maximum depth-averaged velocities ranging up to 250 cm/sec have generated ripples, two- and three-dimensional sand waves, and upper flat beds on the floor of central San Francisco Bay. Determination of the hydraulic conditions under which the observed beds exist, indicates that the bed configuration at any point in the bay is a function of the local velocity, sediment size, and depth. The bay observations, for flows up to 85 m deep, were combined with shallow-flow observations and a single set of bed-phase boundaries was determined for the combined data. Critical shear velocities calculated for the transitions from ripples to sand waves and from sand waves to upper flat beds, in flows tens of meters deep, are within 10% of critical shear velocities observed for the same transitions in flume flows only tens of centimeters deep. Comparison of bedform sequences suggests that, for flows up to tens of meters deep, beds of 0.25–0.50 mm sand respond to increasing flow velocities by forming ripples, two-dimensional sand waves, three-dimensional sand waves, and flat beds. At any constant depth, equilibrium sand waves increase in height and migration rate as flow velocity increases. The wavelength and maximum height of both two- and three-dimensional sand waves increase with depth also, but migration rates decrease. Because the maximum size of both kinds of bedforms varies with depth, classification schemes based on size arbitrarily separate genetically similar bedforms. In the bay, in contrast to flumes, sand waves having the largest height-to-depth ratios occur in relatively coarse sand. Tidal and seasonal velocity fluctuations are interpreted to be more destructive to finer-grained sand waves, because in finer grain sizes sand waves are stable at a relatively narrow range of velocities. Ripples, sand waves, and upper and lower flat beds are commonly superimposed on larger bedforms. Small bedforms can exist in equilibrium on the larger bedforms because the large bedforms generate boundary layers in which the small bedforms are locally stable. The distribution of small bedforms superimposed on larger bedforms reflects lateral and vertical variations in shear velocity in flow over large bedforms.
The diagnostic accuracy of Q3 and related electrocardiographic items for the detection of patients with posterior wall myocardial infarction.

Abstract The diagnostic significance of a prominent Q 3 and ten related electrocardiographic items was statistically evaluated from the distribution in a group of 90 normal subjects with a prominent Q 3 and 150 patients with posterior wall myocardial infarct. The evidence of a prominent Q wave in 170 normal men increased from 12 per cent in young men to 20 per cent in 250 older men. There was no significant difference in the distribution of most items in three different phases of infarct (acute, subacute, chronic). The diagnostic accuracy was expressed as the ratio of diagnostic errors (false abnormal plus missed patients) to the number of correct diagnoses of infarct. The calculations were performed for three population groups: (a) random population of middle-aged men, with an estimated 1 per cent incidence of old infarct, (b) hospital mixed population with an estimated 5 per cent incidence of old infarct, and (c) hospital male population with an estimated 10 per cent incidence of infarct. The estimates of the posterior wall infarct incidence in hospital populations is based on surveys in Minneapolis hospitals. The calculations were made with different discriminating values, for the single ten ECG items as well as various combinations of items. Those values which were satisfactory for the normal group (i.e., the 95 to 98 per cent normal range limits) did not always give the lowest ratio of diagnostic errors. This demonstrates that both normal and abnormal distribution are necessary to determine the diagnostic accuracy of any method. It was shown that the diagnostic accuracy of any item depends on the composition of the population group, within which the patients have to be diagnostically differentiated. In general, the diagnostic accuracy improves with the incidence of patients, it is lowest in the random population (a). The best diagnostic accuracy for single items was obtained in population (c) with a QR ratio of 25 per cent in aV F , but even with this item for four correct diagnoses three diagnostic errors will be made. Combination of various items improved the diagnostic accuracy for random population, but not for hospital population.
Photochemically induced cortical infarction in the rat. 1. Time course of hemodynamic consequences.

Alterations in local CBF (LCBF) were assessed autoradiographically in the rat at several time points following photochemically induced cortical infarction. Cortical infarction of consistent size and location was produced by irradiating the brain with green light through the intact skull for 20 min following the systemic injection of rose bengal. A consistent pattern of altered LCBF was recorded in both ipsilateral and contralateral brain regions over the course of the study. At 30 min, a severely ischemic zone surrounded by regions of cortical hyperemia was apparent. LCBF was also depressed relative to control values in ipsilateral cortical regions remote from the irradiated area, while contralateral cortical structures were mildly hyperemic. By 4 h, the zone of severe ischemia had enlarged and its margins were no longer hyperemic. Ipsilateral cortical and some subcortical structures demonstrated significantly depressed levels of LCBF. At 5 days, LCBF throughout both ipsilateral and contralateral cortices...
Development of hafnium based high-k materials—A review

Abstract The move to implement metal oxide based gate dielectrics in a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor is considered one of the most dramatic advances in materials science since the invention of silicon based transistors. Metal oxides are superior to SiO 2 in terms of their higher dielectric constants that enable the required continuous down-scaling of the electrical thickness of the dielectric layer while providing a physically thicker layer to suppress the quantum mechanical tunneling through the dielectric layer. Over the last decade, hafnium based materials have emerged as the designated dielectrics for future generation of nano-electronics with a gate length less than 45 nm, though there exists no consensus on the exact composition of these materials, as evolving device architectures dictate different considerations when optimizing a gate dielectric material. In addition, the implementation of a non-silicon based gate dielectric means a paradigm shift from diffusion based thermal processes to atomic layer deposition processes. In this report, we review how HfO 2 emerges from all likely candidates to become the new gold standard in the microelectronics industry, its different phases, reported electrical properties, and materials processing techniques. Then we use specific examples to discuss the evolution in designing hafnium based materials, from binary to complex oxides and to non-oxide forms as gate dielectric, metal gates and diffusion barriers. To address the impact of these hafnium based materials, their interfaces with silicon as well as a variety of semiconductors are discussed. Finally, the integration issues are highlighted, including carrier scattering, interface state passivation, phonon engineering, and nano-scale patterning, which are essential to realize future generations of devices using hafnium-based high- k materials.
Gonadotroph-specific expression of metallothionein fusion genes in pituitaries of transgenic mice

Transgenic mice expressing a metallothionein-somatostatin fusion gene contain high concentrations of somatostatin in the anterior pituitary gland, a tissue that does not normally produce somatostatin. Immunoreactive somatostatin within the anterior pituitaries was found exclusively within gonadotrophs. Similarly, a metallothionein-human growth-hormone fusion gene was also expressed selectively in gonadotrophs. It is proposed that sequences common to the two fusion genes are responsible for the gonadotroph-specific expression.
Reflectivity measurements of water and dioxane mixtures using a 100 GHz Gunn diode source

Terahertz (THz) sensing has shown potential as a novel imaging modality in medical applications due to its high water sensitivity. The design of medical THz sensing systems and their successful application to in vivo settings has attracted recent interest to the field, and highlighted the need for improved understanding of the interaction of THz waves with biological tissues. This paper explores the modeling of composite materials which combine strongly-interacting water with weakly-interacting species such as those that are common to biological tissues. The Bruggeman, Maxwell-Garnett, and power law effective media models are introduced and discussed. A reflection-mode 100 GHz Gunn diode sensing system was used to measure the reflectivity of solutions of water and dioxane as a function of relative concentration, and the results were compared with the predictions of the Maxwell-Garnett, power law, and Bruggeman mixing theories. The Maxwell-Garnett model fit poorly to experimental data on near-equal mixtures of water and dioxane and improved when the concentration of water exceeded ~55% or was below ~15%. The first-order power law model fit poorly to experimental data across the entire range except at nearpure solutions. Power law models employing 1/2 and 1/3 terms improved goodness of fit, but did not match the accuracy of the Bruggeman model. The Bruggeman provided the best fit to experimental data model as compared to Maxwell-Garnett and the power models and accurately predicted the solution reflectivity through the whole range of concentrations. This analysis suggests that the Bruggeman model may offer improved accuracy over more conventional dielectric mixing models when developing simulation tools for THz reflectometry of hydrated biological tissues.
A Pyrrolyl-Based Triazolophane: A Macrocyclic Receptor With CH and NH Donor Groups That Exhibits a Preference for Pyrophosphate Anions

A pyrrolyl-based triazolophane, incorporating CH and NH donor groups, acts as a receptor for the pyrophosphate anion in chloroform solution. It shows selectivity for this trianion, followed by HSO4− > H2PO4− > Cl− > Br− (all as the corresponding tetrabutylammonium salts), with NH−anion interactions being more important than CH−anion interactions. In the solid state, the receptor binds the pyrophosphate anion in a clip-like slot via NH and CH hydrogen bonds.
Is There a Role for Adjuvant High-Dose Interferon-α-2b in the Management of Melanoma?

The knowledge that melanoma is susceptible to attack by the host's immune system has resulted in the testing of a variety of immunotherapies. Interferon-alpha-2b, which has several anti-tumour mechanisms including an antiproliferative effect, an anti-angiogenesis effect, the enhancement of natural-killer cell activity and the upregulation of tumour antigen presentation, has shown tremendous potential. Early trials using low-dose and intermediate-dose regimens demonstrated no benefit to survival. However, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group trial EST 1684, showed that a high-dose regimen involving an induction phase of intravenous interferon-alpha-2b 20 MU/m(2) 5 days a week for 4 weeks, followed by a maintenance phase of subcutaneous 10 MU/m(2) 3 days a week for the remainder of a year, led to significant improvements in both disease-free and overall survival compared with observation. On the basis of these results, the US FDA approved high-dose interferon-alpha-2b for the post-surgical adjuvant therapy of high-risk melanoma. Unfortunately, the results of subsequent trials involving high-dose interferon-alpha-2b have not been as clear, and its role in the adjuvant treatment of melanoma remains controversial. Concerns remain regarding the design and interpretation of the clinical trials, the cost and toxicity of treatment, and the appropriate selection of patients who should be treated. This article reviews the existing data and attempt to address the arguments for and against a role for adjuvant high-dose interferon-alpha-2b in the management of melanoma.
Are molecular weights of proteins determined by superose 12 column chromatography correct

Our research on several proteins indicates that accurate molecular weights cannot be determined by Superose 12 column chromatography. In support of this statement, we present data on molecular weights of purified red kidney bean alpha-amylase inhibitor (RKB alphaAI) and white kidney bean alpha-amylase inhibitor (WKB alphaAI) to document this problem. The molecular weight of purified RKB alphaAI determined by Sephadex G-100 gel filtration, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Superose 12 gel filtration and cDNA were 49.0, 51.0, 22.9, and 49.805 kDa (not glycosylated), respectively. The molecular weights of WKB alphaAI by several methods were as follows: Sephadex G-100 gel filtration, 51.0 kDa; Superose 12 gel filtration in 0.2 M NaCl buffer, 23.1 kDa; polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), 51.0 kDa; sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), 45.0 kDa; multiangle laser light scattering (MALLS), 49.940 kDa; laser-assisted time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LATOFMS), 56.714 kDa; and cDNA sequence (with 12.2% carbohydrate), 55.9 kDa. The data indicate there is ionic interaction between proteins and the matrix of Superose 12 in low ionic strength buffers and hydrophobic interaction at higher ionic strength buffers. Researchers should be cautious when using Superose 12 columns for molecular weight determinations.
On the giant sea-salt particles in the atmosphere: I. General Features of the Distribution

Some observational data of giant sea-salt particles in the atmosphere, now available from many references, were examined to find mechanisms that would explain their distribution. The first part concerns the vertical distribution over the sea. It is shown that the average decrease of the concentration with height, as a function of particle weight, is quantitatively explained by a combination of sedimentation, diffusion, and convection processes. It is also suggested that the frequent observation of a maximum concentration at some level above the sea surface may be explained by the presence of a boundary layer of a thickness of several meters over the sea surface, where relative humidity steeply changes, in a nonsteady state. In the second part, the distribution over the continent is discussed. The vertical distribution inland is characterized by a low concentration near the ground which may be ascribed mainly to impaction on ground obstacles, an effect which is much greater than dry fallout. This type of distribution is analytically expressed, and some relations have been formulated; for example, the ratio between the maximum and the ground concentrations as related to an efficiency of the impaction by ground obstacles, also the height where the maximum concentrations appear as related to the factor representing the exponential decrease of the concentration with height in an equilibrium distribution at sea. These expressions are used with available data of the actual distribution in order to examine values of the included factors. Transition from the distribution over the sea to that over the continent is also discussed. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1965.tb00202.x
True incidence of common bile duct calculi at laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Choledocholithiasis occurs in 3.5% of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Of these patients, more than one-third pass the calculi spontaneously and may be spared ERCR This supports a short-term expectant approach in the management of patients with choledocholithiasis.
A feasibility study of bihormonal closed-loop blood glucose control using dual subcutaneous infusion of insulin and glucagon in ambulatory diabetic swine.

Background:We sought to test the feasibility and efficacy of bihormonal closed-loop blood glucose (BG) control that utilizes subcutaneous (SC) infusion of insulin and glucagon, a model-predictive control algorithm for determining insulin dosing, and a proportional-derivative control algorithm for determining glucagon dosing.Methods:Thirteen closed-loop experiments (∼7–27 h in length) were conducted in six ambulatory diabetic pigs weighing 26–50 kg. In all experiments, venous BG was sampled through a central line in the vena cava. Efficacy was evaluated in terms of the controller's ability to regulate BG in response to large meal disturbances (∼5 g of carbohydrate per kilogram of body mass per meal) based only on regular frequent venous BG sampling and requiring only the subject's weight for initialization.Results:Closed-loop results demonstrated successful BG regulation to normoglycemic range, with average insulin-to-carbohydrate ratios between ∼1:20 and 1:40 U/g. The total insulin bolus doses averaged ∼6...
An immersion-type electrical conductivity probe for anisotropic plasmas.

From a numerical solution of the Maxwell equations, the impedance variation of a miniature coil is predicted for an anisotropic plasma. Such a plasma is created behind the reflected shock in an expansion-driven li-in.-diam shock tube by applying a uniform, quasi-steady axial magnetic field to obtain Hall coefficients of the order of 2. Tensor conductivities and Hall coefficient of the plasma are calculated through an adaptation of Shkarofsky's plasma kinetic theory and are used as a basis for comparison with experiments. An optimized parallel-T bridge, followed by two phase-sensitive detectors, channeling the information from both resistive and reactive change of the coil impedance, proved instrumental in achieving good decoupling and adequate sensitivity. The device exhibits very good time and space resolution and does not require any known electrical conductivity standards for calibrating purposes. The generally good agreement between predicted and observed probe response demonstrates the usefulness of such a diagnostic tool for many important applications involving Hall effect and electrical plasma conductivity.
A comparative study of wearout mechanisms in state-of-art microprocessors

In this work, we perform a comparative study of different wearout mechanisms affecting the state-of-art microprocessor systems. Taking into account the detailed thermal and electrical stress profiles, we present a methodology to accurately estimate the lifetime due to each mechanism. The lifetime-limiting wearout mechanisms are highlighted using standard benchmarks along with the reliability-critical microprocessor functional units.
Remission in depressed outpatients: more than just symptom resolution?

Abstract Objective In treatment studies of depression remission is defined according to scores on symptom severity scales. Normalization of functioning has often been mentioned as an important component of the definition of remission, though it is not used to identify remitted patients in studies of treatment efficacy. Conceptually, the return of normal functioning should be as fundamental to the concept of remission as is symptom resolution because the presence of both symptoms and impaired functioning are core constructs in the diagnosis of mental disorders. In the present report from the Rhode Island Methods to Improve Diagnostic Assessment and Services (MIDAS) project we examined the independent and additive association between level of severity of depressive symptoms and functional impairment in predicting depressed patients’ subjective evaluation of their remission status. Methods Five hundred and fourteen depressed psychiatric outpatients filled out a questionnaire on which they rated the severity of the symptoms of depression, the level of impairment due to depression, and their quality of life. Results Symptom severity, functional impairment from depression, and quality of life were significantly and highly intercorrelated, and each was significantly associated with remission status. The results of a logistic regression analysis indicated that each of the three variables was a significant, independent, predictor of remission status. Discussion In treatment studies of depression remission is narrowly defined in terms of symptom resolution. Our results support broadening the concept of remission beyond symptom levels to include assessments of functioning and quality of life.
The vanishing-off subgroup

Abstract In this paper, we define the vanishing-off subgroup of a nonabelian group. We study the structure of the quotient of this subgroup and a central series obtained from this subgroup.
Are Pediatric Offices “Supportive” of Breastfeeding? Discrepancies between Mothers’ and Healthcare Professionals’ Reports

According to previous research, pediatricians describe themselves as being "supportive" of breastfeeding, yet demonstrate suboptimal knowledge and skills when evaluated. Mothers also report dissatisfaction with receiving poor information and support from healthcare professionals (HCPs). To understand the depth of breastfeeding support problems within pediatric clinics, focus groups with mothers and individual interviews with HCPs were completed in 2000 to 2001 at a pediatric practice in a Midwest state. Results from interviews suggest that HCPs and mothers have different perceptions of "support." Existing literature hypothesizes that improvements in support provision could increase breastfeeding durations; this will ultimately involve reconciling mothers' and HCPs' definitions of breastfeeding "support."
Cupri observations of PMSE during Salvo B of NLC‐91: Evidence of both partial reflection and turbulent scatter

During the first rocket sequence (called Salvo B) of the NLC-91 campaign, the Cornell University Portable Radar Interferometer (CUPRI) observed two simultaneously occurring layers of Polar Mesophere Summer Echoes (PMSE). during the time of the Turbo B flight, the high time-resolution CUPRI Doppler spectra exhibited sawtooth-like discontinuities in the lower layer which we interpret to be a distorted partial reflection layer which was advected across the radar beam. The upper layer, on the other hand, appeared to be caused by turbulent scatter and we estimate the turbulence energy dissipation rate in the upper layer at the time of the Turbo B flight to have been approximately 0.04 W/kg. Futhermore, a shift in the antenna beam direction from vertical to 8 deg off zenith revealed an aspect sensitivity of approximately 5 dB in the lower layer but none in the upper layer. We conclude that, at this particular time, turbulent scatter was responsible for the upper layer while some form of partial reflection was dominant in the lower layer.
Storage and export of organic matter in a headwater stream: responses to long-term detrital manipulations

Riparian habitats provide organic matter inputs that influence stream biota and ecosystem processes in forested watersheds. Over a 13-yr period, we examined the effects of litter exclusion, small- and large-wood removal, and the addition of leaf species of varying detrital quality on organic matter standing crop and export of organic and inorganic particles in a high-gradient headwater stream. Using eight pretreatment years of export data and two pretreatment years of particulate organic matter (POM) standing crop data, we report on 21 and 15 years of continuous export and POM standing crop results, respectively. Litter exclusion resulted in the elimination of leaf standing crop by the end of year three. Wood and fine benthic organic matter (FBOM) standing crops declined significantly during the exclusion and wood removal periods, but never completely disappeared. Following the introduction of artificial wood structures for retention, the addition of fast, slow, and mixed breakdown leaves in the treatment stream resulted in significantly increased mean annual leaf standing crops. After five years of leaf addition, FBOM standing crop and fine particulate organic matter (FPOM) export remained below pre-treatment levels. The reduction in leaf standing crop in the treatment stream resulted in significant increases in FPOM (23), fine inorganic particulate (33), and gravel export (103). After small wood removal we observed significant increases in export of fine inorganic particulates (23) and gravel (73) from the treatment stream. A greater proportion of coarse and FBOM standing crop was exported from the treatment stream during the litter exclusion and small wood removal periods than from the reference stream. Following the addition of slow and mixed leaves this trend was reversed, demonstrating the importance of leaf standing crop in the retention of POM. Our long-term experiment demonstrates that the quantity and type of riparian inputs to forested headwater streams will affect POM standing crop and export of POM and sediments to downstream ecosystems, and that small wood is more critical to retaining sediments and POM in small streams than previously recognized.