cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Catalase mRNA expression in the male rat reproductive tract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to impair sperm function. The actions of ROS are reduced by antioxidant enzymes, including catalase. Although catalase-like activity has been demonstrated in semen, there has been no localization or characterization of catalase mRNA expression in the male reproductive tract. Catalase mRNA levels were evaluated by northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization from the male reproductive organs of normal 60-day-old rats, testes of 10- to 90-day-old rats, and testes of rats subjected to efferent duct ligation. Radioactive DNA probes were synthesized using a Klenow polymerase-based specific primer synthetic procedure with a known published sequence for rat catalase. All tissues demonstrated a single transcript of 2.5 kilobases (kb). Low levels of catalase mRNA were detected in the normal testis, epididymis, vas deferens, and prostate. No expression was detectable with northern analysis in seminal vesicle. The levels of catalase mRNA in reproductive organs were compared with the high levels of expression detectable in rat liver. In the testis, catalase expression was primarily localized to peritubular and interstitial cells. In the epididymis and prostate, mRNA was detected in the epithelium. The observed decrease in catalase mRNA levels in the maturing rat testis is consistent with its interstitial localization. The increase in testicular catalase mRNA levels seen in parallel with progressive thinning of the germinal epithelium after efferent duct ligation is also in keeping with a peritubular or interstitial cell localization. The relatively low levels of catalase mRNA expression in the normal adult male reproductive tract undermine the role of catalase as a major antioxidant enzyme in these tissues. The low levels of catalase mRNA in the testis, and the undetectable levels in the seminiferous epithelium, however, imply that the germinal epithelium is predisposed to an oxidative state. These findings may help to explain the known susceptibility of the testis to oxidative stress.
Graph Cuts with Interacting Edge Costs - Examples, Approximations, and Algorithms

We study an extension of the classical graph cut problem, wherein we replace the modular (sum of edge weights) cost function by a submodular set function defined over graph edges. Special cases of this problem have appeared in different applications in signal processing, machine learning, and computer vision. In this paper, we connect these applications via the generic formulation of "cooperative graph cuts", for which we study complexity, algorithms, and connections to polymatroidal network flows. Finally, we compare the proposed algorithms empirically.
Open resections for congenital lung malformations.

Aim: Pediatric lung resection is a relatively uncommon procedure that is usually performed for congenital lesions. In recent years, thoracoscopic resection has become increasingly popular, particularly for small peripheral lesions. The aim of this study was to review our experience with traditional open lung resection in order to evaluate the existing gold standard. Materials and Methods: We carried out a retrospective analysis of all children having lung resection for congenital lesions at our institution between 1997 and 2004. Data were collected from analysis of case notes, operative records and clinical consultation. The mean follow-up was 37.95 months. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: Forty-one children (13 F/28 M) underwent major lung resections during the study period. Their median age was 4.66 months (1 day-9 years). The resected lesions included 21 congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations, 14 congenital lobar emphysema, four sequestrations and one bronchogenic cyst. Fifty percent of the lesions were diagnosed antenatally. Twenty-six patients had a complete lobectomy while 15 patients had parenchymal sparing resection of the lesion alone. Mean postoperative stay was 5.7 days. There have been no complications in any of the patients. All patients are currently alive, asymptomatic and well. None of the patients have any significant chest deformity. Conclusions: We conclude that open lung resection enables parenchymal sparing surgery, is versatile, has few complications and produces very good long-term results. It remains the gold standard against which minimally invasive techniques may be judged.
Differential effect of cerivastatin and L-arginine on the vascular function of human radial and left internal thoracic arteries.

BACKGROUND There are a number of strategies to restore/preserve endothelial function. We have compared the effects of Cerivastatin (CS) to those of L-arginine (L-ARG) supplementation on the endothelial function of human arterial grafts. METHODS During coronary artery bypass grafting, specimens of radial artery (RA) and left internal thoracic artery (LITA) were obtained. Specimens were divided into vascular rings, which were incubated with either 10(-6) mol/L CS, 10(-3) mol/L L-ARG, or vehicle (control) for 2 or 24 hours. Endothelial function was examined with acethylcholine (10(-9) to 10(-5) mol/L) following contraction by 3 x 10(-8) mol/L endothelin-1. RESULTS Although no significant differences were observed in the RA at 2 hours, after 24 hours incubation, endothelium-dependent vasodilatation was significantly higher in CS group (68.4 +/- 5.0%; n = 6) compared to L-ARG group (49.9 +/- 5.4%; n = 7, p < 0.05) and control group (33.8 +/- 2.9%; n = 13, p < 0.0001). In addition, there was a significant increase in L-ARG group compared to control (p < 0.01). After 2 hours incubation of the LITA, CS failed to enhance endothelium-dependent vasodilatation compared to control (44.1 +/- 4.9%; n = 9, vs. 40.0 +/- 5.2%; n = 16, respectively, NS), while L-ARG increased it (64.7 +/- 4.9%; n = 7, p < 0.05 vs. CS and p < 0.01 vs. control). However, this increase disappeared at 24 hours although there was a higher trend of endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in CS group (30.3 +/- 3.7%; n = 8 in L-ARG, 56.5 +/- 8.8%; n = 9 in CS and 41.0 +/- 5.5%; n = 18 in control). CONCLUSIONS CS preserved endothelium-dependent vasodilatation of RA greater than L-ARG. These findings suggest that the use of statins may be an effective therapeutic strategy to preserve endothelial function in the RA grafts, and could have important implications in the clinical practice.
Transcatheter Closure of a Peripheral Arteriovenous Fistula: A Unique Use of a Covered Stent in a Child with Complex Congenital Heart Disease

Introduction. This report describes the use of a covered stent to occlude a surgical arteriovenous fistula in a child with complex cyanotic heart disease. Method. A single case report. Results. An Atrium iCAST covered stent was delivered percutaneously to the left axillary artery in an 8-year-old child with a failing single-lung Fontan who had undergone the creation of a surgical axillary arteriovenous fistula to augment pulmonary blood flow. The covered stent completely occluded the fistula, without complications or compromise of arterial flow to the upper extremity. The patient subsequently experienced significant improvement in peripheral edema, ascites and pleural effusions. Conclusion. Although a single case report, this experience suggests a potentially important role for covered stents in the management of children with complex congenital heart disease.
Bilateral simultaneous breast reconstruction with SGAP flaps.

Background: Two work-horse approaches to postmastectomy breast reconstruction are the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap and the superior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP) flap [and its variation, the lateral septocutaneous superior gluteal artery perforator flap]. Our purpose was fourfold: 1) to analyze our experience with the SGAP flaps for simultaneous bilateral breast reconstruction; 2) to analyze our experience with lateral septocutaneous superior gluteal artery perforator flaps for that procedure; 3) to compare our results with those in the literature; and 4) to highlight the importance of preoperative three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography. Methods: A retrospective chart review was completed for 23 patients who underwent breast reconstruction between December 2005 and January 2010 via an SGAP flap (46 flaps). We reviewed flap weight, ischemia time, length of stay, overall flap survival, fat necrosis development, and emergency re-exploration. Results: Mean weights were 571.2 ± 222.0 g (range 186–1,117 g) and 568.0 ± 237.5 g (range 209–1,115 g) for the left and right buttock flap, respectively. Mean ischemia time was 129.1 ± 15.7 and 177.7 ± 24.7 minutes for the first and second flap, respectively. Mean hospital stay was 5.3 ± 2.5 days. All flaps survived. Fat necrosis developed in five flaps (10.8%), and emergency re-exploration was required in three patients (three flaps). Conclusions: When harvesting abdominal tissue is a poor option, the SGAP flap is an efficacious procedure for patients desiring autologous breast reconstruction, and bilateral procedures can be performed simultaneously. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
INFLUENCE OF SODIUM SALICYLATE UPON THE ARTHRITIS OF RABBITS INOCULATED WITH NON-HEMOLYTIC STREPTOCOCCI

1. Rabbits inoculated intravenously with non-hemolytic streptococci, while under the influence of full therapeutic doses of sodium salicylate, developed almost as many inflamed joints as the untreated controls similarly inoculated. 2. The salicylated rabbits, on the other hand, had a much higher proportion of mildly inflamed Joints than did the controls. 3. This anti-inflammatory action was most evident in the animals inoculated with streptococci of the lowest virulence, and could not be demonstrated in animals inoculated with hemolytic streptococci.
Germanium X-ray phase plates for the production of circularly polarized X-rays

Abstract We have constructed an X-ray phase plate to produce linearly and circularly polarized X-rays at discrete energies between 20 keV and 88 keV. The plate is a monolithic two-crystal design, constructed from germanium. We have measured the degree of circular polarization at 65 keV to be 90%±4%, which is significantly better than that produced by silicon phase plates. This radiation was used to measure the magnetic Compton profile for Fe, which was found to be in good agreement with theory and previous work. The underlying X-ray optics and the characterization of the device between 62 keV and 93 keV at the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source are presented.
Visual Perception of Relative Mass in Dynamic Events

Two experiments are reported which examine how the dynamic property of relative mass in collision events is specified by kinematic properties of a visual motion display. In most cases observers are accurate at detecting the 'heavier' of two objects, although they do not take advantage of the completely general optic information that is available. Instead, they rely on limited information that breaks down at extreme values of elasticity and relative initial velocity. In addition, observers appear to utilize different information for relative mass with different types of collisions. It is suggested that reliance on such limited information may be appropriate for perceivers operating in the restricted context of a terrestrial environment.
Patency of the ductus arteriosus after birth: a new theory.

even though in most cases the pressures of the lesser circulation are normal or slightly elevated.8’ #{176} 10 While his interpretation could be applied to the presence of isolated, uncomplicated ductus, there is no stage of normal development which corresponds to the conditions found in ductus with pulmonary hypertension. Kennedy�’ in 1942 stated that “uncomplicated persistent patency of the ductus should not be regarded as malformation, but should be attributed to defective oxygenation of the blood during birth or shortly after.” Several subsequent publications’2’ 13. 14, 1� demonstrated fetal distress at birth and shortly after birth in a great number of the cases of patent ductus which were investigated. In statistical studies performed by Alzamora and co-workers,’5 the occurrence of patent ductus in children born above 9,000 feet is strikingly high. Experimental studies also give’�’ 12 good evidence that asphyxia at birth may delay the closure of the ductus. Undoubtedly, as Record and McKeown’2 state: “these observations . . . do not dispose of the objection that closure might be expected to follow relief of embarrassment unless the possibility of closure is limited to a short period after birth.” It has been shown that the ductus may be obliterated many months after birth, even in the presence of anoxia, like in cases of tetralogy of Fallot,17 but this observation may not have direct bearing on the normal mechanism of closure. Spontaneous closure of the ductus has been described by several observers many months, and even years, after birth.’8’ � 20
Calculus, radio dials and the straight-line frequency variable capacitor

Most often radio dials of analogue radios are not uniformly graded; the frequencies are cramped on the left side or on the right side. This makes tuning more difficult. Why are dials made this way? We shall see here that simple calculus can help understand this problem and solve it.
Fitting In: Socio‐Economic Attainment Patterns of Foreign‐Born Egyptians in the United States

This paper analyzes socio-economic attainment patterns of foreign-born Egyptians in the United States, as tabulated in the 1980 U. S. Census. This is achieved first through an examination of their earnings, followed by an analysis of the rate at which their human capital characteristics are converted into wages. The findings suggest that this more recent immigrant group has likely attained higher earnings largely because of their skills and educational levels. Thus, while assimilation theory posits the crucial importance of time as a linkage to higher socio-economic attainment, this may not necessarily be the case for these immigrant men and women.
A model for rate-dependent hysteresis in piezoceramic materials operating at low frequencies

This paper addresses the modeling of certain rate-dependent mechanisms which contribute to hysteresis inherent to piezoelectric materials operating at low frequencies. While quasistatic models are suitable for initial material characterization in some applications, the reduction in coercive field and polarization values which occur as frequencies increase must be accommodated to achieve the full capabilities of the materials. The model employed here quantifies the hysteresis in two steps. In the first, anhysteretic polarization switching is modeled through the application of Boltzmann principles to balance the electrostatic and thermal energy. Hysteresis is then incorporated through the quantification of energy required to translate and bend domain walls pinned at inclusions inherent to the materials. The performance of the model is illustrated through a fit to low frequency data (0.1 Hz - 1 Hz) from a PZT5A wafer.
Moving forward on cultural learning

Tomasello, Kruger & Ratner make the very interesting and valid point that the transmission of culture must depend on understanding others' minds. Culture is shared among a people and is passed on to progeny. The sharing of culture implies that the purpose of (and therefore the meaning behind) any given cultural element (behavioral tradition, word, or artifact) is understood. Because meaning or purpose emanates from minds, something about others' minds must be understood in order to truly learn some element of a culture. It thus makes sense that cultural learning should depend on social-cognitive skills. But what exactly is cultural learning?There are two rival interpretations of the term cultural learning. In the first, one would define a given type of cultural learning by the type of social-cognitive skill it entails. For example, imitative learning would be defined as any learning of a cultural element in which another's goals or intentions are taken into account. This definition of cultural learning, however, would force Tomasello et al.'s argument into a circle: Imitative learning relies on this social-cognitive skill because imitative learning is defined as learning that relies on this social-cognitive skill. Such a circular definition does not do their argument justice.
Study of OPC for AAPSM reticles using various mask fabrication techniques

AAPSM masks require OPC correction through pitch in order to print a linear dark line response vs the design CDs. The masks also require correction for the clear intensity imbalance caused by the phased etched Qz wall edge. The clear intensity can be balanced by two approaches;(or a combination of the two) data biasing or wet undercut etching of the Qz etched opening. IC manufacturers would like to use one OPC model that will work for any mask fabrication approach. This paper shows that there is no OPC difference observed in either the aerial image or the printed image of several OPC learning patterns. The study includes CD through pitch for dense (1:1) L/S Patterns and Isolated Line CD vs line-space ratio. The images were analyzed for the dark line linearity, the clear CD balance though pitch, and the clear CD balance with focus (phase error effects -PES).
Risk factors for primary graft failure after pediatric cardiac transplantation: importance of recipient and donor characteristics.

Abstract Background Primary graft failure, or circulatory insufficiency immediately after transplantation, frequently occurs after pediatric cardiac transplantation and is the most common cause of death after infant transplantation. Risk factors for pediatric primary graft failure are poorly defined. Methods We retrospectively reviewed donor, procedural and recipient characteristics for primary graft failure in 165 pediatric cardiac transplant recipients (median age at transplant 1.1 years) by multivariatle logistic regression. Primary graft failure was defined as the need for mechanical circulatory support or use of multiple intravenous inotrope/pressors, including epinephrine, for circulatory support within the first 24 hours after transplantation. Results Primary graft failure occurred in 54 patients (33%); 24 patients (15%) required mechanical support for their graft failure; and primary graft failure was the cause of death or graft loss in 10 patients. Recipient risk factors associated with an increased risk of primary graft failure included diagnosis of congenital heart disease and a need for mechanical support before transplantation. Ventilator support before transplantation and maximal pulmonary vascular resistance index were risk factors for the development of isolated right ventricular graft failure. Donor risk factors associated with an increased risk for primary graft failure included increasing donor recipient weight and body surface area ratios; increasing donor ischemic time; anoxia as a cause of death; and increasing cardiopulmonary resuscitation time. Donor blood type O + and hyperdynamic donor systolic function were associated with a decreased risk of primary graft failure. Conclusions Multiple donor, recipient and procedural risk factors, including the type and severity of heart disease in the recipient before transplantation, are associated with primary graft failure after pediatric cardiac transplantation. Avoidance of matching high-risk donors to high-risk recipients may improve morbidity and mortality after transplantation.
Ethnobiology for A Diverse World Defining New Disciplinary Trajectories: Mixing Political Ecology with Ethnobiology

That which we assume to be a distinct scholarly discipline today may not be so tomorrow; boundaries shift, and territories become redefined in academia just as they do in geopolitics. And so, it would not be surprising to see within just a few decades the methodological pretexts of ethnobiological inquiries once again overhauled as they have been several times already. We anticipate and in fact welcome the re-delineation of the boundaries of this discipline as a result of advances made in political ecology and in other fields as well. Although the term ‘‘political ecology’’ was first used in print more than 80 years ago (Thone 1935), it has been more widely used over the last 30 years in a particular manner by cultural ecologists and human geographers. Since anthropologist Eric R. Wolf published his seminal article entitled ‘‘Ownership and Political Ecology,’’ social scientists have used the concept of political ecology to balance their understanding of ‘‘the pressures emanating from the larger society and the exigencies of the local ecosystem’’ (Wolf 1972:202). As noted a quarter century ago by applied anthropologist Thomas Sheridan (1988:xvi), this is because it has become increasingly necessary to ‘‘wed the approaches of political economy, which focus upon society’s place in a region, nation, or ‘‘world sphere,’’ with those of cultural ecology, which examine adaptations to local environmental and demographic factors.’’ We are of the opinion that there is also a need to wed insights from political ecology with ethnobiology, which has largely ignored the global and macroeconomic pressures on the so-called ‘‘traditional’’ agricultural, fishing, hunting and foraging cultures with which ethnobiologists have characteristically been engaged. Despite the broad use of both the concepts and methodologies of political ecology in geography, anthropology and history, articles in the Journal of Ethnobiology have seldom used this term, and it is even in less currency in Economic Botany, the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and the Journal of Ethnobiology
Attempts to produce deciduomata in the pregnant rat.

A TEAUMATIC stimulus to the uterus of the pregnant rat from the 4th to the 7th day of pregnancy produces a local endometrial reaction known as deciduoma (Allen, 1931). Stimulation after the 7th day does not elicit this response (Allen 1931; Selye and McKeown, 1935). Selye and McKeown (1935) have claimed that this loss of sensitivity is due to a “specific” placental inhibition because after “cesarean section” they were able to obtain deciduomata. Atkinson and Leathern (1945) have suggested that, more specifically, the maternal placenta (the decidual tissue associated with the placenta) is the source of the “inhibitory” factor responsible for this loss of sensitivity. Since we have recently demonstrated that the presence of decidual tissue does not prevent the formation of deciduomata (Peckham and Greene, 1947, in press) the subject was reinvestigated. METHODS AND RESULTS Sensitivity of the pregnant rafs endometrium to the traumatic stimulus.
Unpacking cultural factors in adaptation to type 2 diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND. Race and ethnicity are used as predictors of outcome in health services research. Often, however, race and ethnicity serve merely as proxies for the resources, values, beliefs, and behaviors (ie, ecology and culture) that are assumed to correlate with them. "Unpacking" proxy variables-directly measuring the variables believed to underlie them-would provide a more reliable and more interpretable way of looking at group differences. OBJECTIVE. To assess the use of a measure of ecocultural domains that is correlated with ethnicity in accounting for variance in adherence, quality of life, clinical outcomes, and service utilization. DESIGN. A cross-sectional observational study. PARTICIPANTS. Twenty-six Hispanic and 29 non-Hispanic white VA primary care patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. MEASURES. The independent variables were patient ethnicity and a summed score of ecocultural domains representing patient adaptation to illness. The outcomes were adherence to treatment, health-related quality of life, clinical indicators of disease management, and utilization of urgent health care services. RESULTS. Patient adaptation was correlated with ethnicity and accounted for more variance in all outcomes than did ethnicity. The unique variance accounted for by adaptation was small to moderate, whereas that accounted for by ethnicity was negligible. CONCLUSIONS. It is possible to identify and measure ecocultural domains that better account for variation in important health services outcomes for patients with type 2 diabetes than does ethnicity. Going beyond the study of ethnic differences alone and measuring the correlated factors that play a role in disease management can advance understanding of the phenomena involved in this variation and provide better direction for service design and delivery.
Barriers to Addressing Substance Abuse in Domestic Violence Court

Substance abuse commonly co-occurs with intimate partner violence among both perpetrators and survivors. Specialized courts that focus on intimate partner violence provide a unique opportunity to address both problems simultaneously, but research has yet to identify whether this happens. In this qualitative study of a domestic violence court in a large midwestern metropolitan area, key informants were interviewed to understand how the Court treats substance abuse. Results indicate that substance abuse typically is not identified among perpetrators or survivors going through the Court unless it is mentioned in a police report. Barriers to such identification are the organization of the Court, bounded definition of actors’ roles in the Court, limited resources, and negative attitudes towards survivors. These results suggest that specialized courts that attend to only one problem may overlook the possibility of addressing issues that commonly co-occur.
Fluorescence imaging with one-nanometer accuracy (fiona)

Fluorescence imaging with one-nanometer accuracy (FIONA) is a simple but useful technique for localizing single fluorophores with nanometer precision in the x-y plane. Here a summary of the FIONA technique is reported and examples of research that have been performed using FIONA are briefly described. First, how to set up the required equipment for FIONA experiments, i.e., a total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM), with details on aligning the optics, is described. Then how to carry out a simple FIONA experiment on localizing immobilized Cy3-DNA single molecules using appropriate protocols, followed by the use of FIONA to measure the 36 nm step size of a single truncated myosin Va motor labeled with a quantum dot, is illustrated. Lastly, recent effort to extend the application of FIONA to thick samples is reported. It is shown that, using a water immersion objective and quantum dots soaked deep in sol-gels and rabbit eye corneas (>200 µm), localization precision of 2-3 nm can be achieved.
Acid-base indicator transition ranges in pyridine

The transition ranges of thirteen acid-base indicators in pyridine have been measured by visual and by photometric means. The transition ranges are given in terms of potentials measured with a glass - modified calomel electrode system. These data permit the selection of a suitable indicator for the titration in pyridine of any acid or acid mixture which does not give highly coloured products and has a good potentiometric break at the equivalence point.
l -DOPA exacerbates amphetamine-induced dopamine depletion

Administration of L-DOPA to Parkinson patients has been suggested to exacerbate "functional denervation" of the nigrostriatal system. Therefore, experiments were conducted to determine if L-DOPA combined with the DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor, Ro4-4602 (benserazide hydrochloride) would potentiate amphetamine-induced neurotoxicity. Mice received two injections of saline or benserazide + L-DOPA (25.0 or 100.0 mg/kg) interspersed with four injections of amphetamine (15.0 mg/kg) at 2-h intervals. Significant depletion of striatal dopamine, DOPAC, and HVA was evident 1 wk following amphetamine administered with or without 25.0 mg/kg L-DOPA + benserazide, whereas 100.0 mg/kg L-DOPA + benserazide potentiated amphetamine-induced depletion of striatal dopamine (17 vs 28% of control values). This enhanced toxicity may be consequent to increased dopamine turnover following L-DOPA (360 vs 231%), a situation akin to that observed in compromised dopaminergic nigrostriatal systems of parkinsonian patients. Furthermore, striatal 5-HT was not altered by amphetamine alone, whereas concurrent administration of L-DOPA/ benserazide depleted 5-HT to 82% of control values. No changes were evident in the frontal cortex following amphetamine with or without concurrent L-DOPA/benserazide; however, L-DOPA/benserazide administered alone reduced 5-HT and 5-HT turnover to 58% of control values.
Effect of polar particles on polymer composite dielectrics

This work focused on the interaction of polar ceramic particles with the hosting polymers to improve the distribution of particles and the dielectric properties of polymer composites. Polymers incorporating polar ceramic particles were shown to exhibit improved dielectric properties. Both computation and experimental observation were conducted to enhance the understanding of composite dielectric engineering. The electric field was found to be localized at the particle? polymer interface, likely contributing to the polarization of polar particles.
Nitrogen and phosphorus in the sediments of a tidal, freshwater marsh in Massachusetts

Total organic nitrogen (TON) and phosphorus (TOP) were measured as a function of depth in 14 cores taken from a New England, tidal, freshwater marsh. TON and TOP ranged from 1.56 to 1.97% and 0.11 to 0.30% of dry weight sediments, respectively. The variation in both pool sizes over time was small and TON varied inconsistently with depth; however, TOP decreased regularly down to 20 cm. Consequently, the TON: TOP ratio increased linearly from 14∶1 at the surface to 32∶1 at 20 cm, then was nearly constant to 70 cm. This pattern may be a general feature of marsh sediments and may indicate 1) that phosphorus is recycled less efficiently than nitrogen, 2) that over time proportionately more introgen than phosphorus is incorporated into recalcitrant compounds, or 3) that phosphorus is more mobile than nitrogen in these marsh sediments. The total inorganic nitrogen pool was measured in this marsh also and was dominated by ammonium (97% of total). The annual average free ammonium concentration was 3.70±0.64 mg N per 1 at the surface and decreased to 0.92±0.18 mg N per 1 at 20 to 22 cm in the sediments. Sorptiondesorption studies showed that, on a fresh sediment volume basis, sediment sorbed ammonium was roughly equivalent to free porewater ammonium (K=0.8). The relationship between free and sorbed ammonium was linear between 0.4 and 24.0 mg NH4·N per 1 of pore water. The depth distribution of ammonium in these sediments is probably maintained by a dynamic balance between net microbial mineralization of litter, plant uptake, transpiration, diffusion, and porewater advection.
Functional Importance of Tyrosine 294 and the Catalytic Selectivity for the Bis-Fe(IV) State of MauG Revealed by Replacement of This Axial Heme Ligand with Histidine,

The diheme enzyme MauG catalyzes the posttranslational modification of a precursor protein of methylamine dehydrogenase (preMADH) to complete the biosynthesis of its protein-derived tryptophan tryptophylquinone (TTQ) cofactor. It catalyzes three sequential two-electron oxidation reactions which proceed through a high-valent bis-Fe(IV) redox state. Tyr294, the unusual distal axial ligand of one c-type heme, was mutated to His, and the crystal structure of Y294H MauG in complex with preMADH reveals that this heme now has His-His axial ligation. Y294H MauG is able to interact with preMADH and participate in interprotein electron transfer, but it is unable to catalyze the TTQ biosynthesis reactions that require the bis-Fe(IV) state. This mutation affects not only the redox properties of the six-coordinate heme but also the redox and CO-binding properties of the five-coordinate heme, despite the 21 A separation of the heme iron centers. This highlights the communication between the hemes which in wild-type Mau...
Widely Tunable Continuous-Wave Mid-Infrared Laser Source Based on Difference-Frequency Generation in AgGaS(2).

We demonstrate difference-frequency generation in the 6.8–12.5-μm range by mixing two high-power single-frequency laser diodes in a type II AgGaS2 crystal. This compact all-solid-state scheme provides maximum output powers that exceed 1 μW and permits continuous adjustment-free scans larger than 2 cm-1 across the entire tuning range.
Cell surface heterogeneity of human blood neutrophils and monocytes.

Summary. Until recently, human blood neutrophils (PMN) and monocytes have been considered to be homogeneous cell populations. However, much evidence has accumulated on their functional heterogeneity. This functional heterogeneity suggests the existence of different subsets of myeloid cells analogous to T and B subsets of lymphoid cells. The goal of this study was to investigate this question of myeloid subsets by examining myeloid cells for cell surface reactivity for IgG and complement (C). Normal PMN and monocytes were examined from 60 subjects for the presence of two types of IgG-Fc receptors and two activated C components, C3b and C3d. Most PMN and monocytes showed Fc receptor reactivity for rabbit IgG (Fc-R). In addition, the majority of monocytes but very few PMN reacted with human IgG (anti-Rh0) coated Rh-positive erythrocytes (Fc-H). Most PMN and monocytes showed C receptor reactivity for C3b, but only a minor subpopulation of both myeloid cells had C3d receptors. These data provide evidence that human blood myeloid cells may be composed of subsets with different membrane marker reactivities.
X-Ray Expansion and Coloration of Undoped and Impurity-Doped NaCl Crystals

Expansion and coloration measurements of undoped and impurity-doped single crystals of NaCl have been made under x-ray irradiation (43 kvp and 20 ma) for intervals up to three hours. Expansion was measured in a direction normal to the x-ray beam with a sensitive capacitive dilatometer that was designed to compensate automatically for thermal fluctuations. It was found that the initial rate of creation of $F$ centers exceeds the rate of creation of vacancy pairs as computed from the expansion data; however, after continued irradiation the rates of $F$-center and vacancy-pair production are approximately evenly matched. This suggests that the initial production of $F$ centers results from both vacancies originally contained in the crystal and vacancies created during irradiation, while the later coloration is due essentially to vacancies that are created in the irradiation process. Within the framework of this interpretation it is possible to estimate the initial negative-ion vacancy concentration of a number of crystals. This concentration ranges from 1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{16}$/${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$ for a Harshaw crystal to a value larger than 6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{17}$/${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$ for a calcium-doped crystal grown at NRL. Although the presence of a large initial concentration of negative-ion vacancies in calcium-doped NaCl explains its enhanced color sensitivity to x-rays without a corresponding enhancement of x-ray-induced expansion, this explanation is not in accord with simple expectations of charge compensation and the law of mass action.
Pancreas and Liver Resection in Jehovah's Witness Patients: Feasible and Safe

Background Jehovah's Witness (JW) patients undergoing liver or pancreas surgery represent a challenging ethical and medical problem, with few reports about their optimal management. Study Design To analyze the perioperative outcomes of JW patients submitted to hepatic or pancreatic resection, clinicopathologic data of JW patients who underwent surgical exploration for a hepatic or pancreatic tumor between March 1996 and July 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. Results Clinicopathologic data of 27 patients, 28 explorations, and 25 resections were included. Median age was 58 years (range 28 to 75 years) and 20 patients were female. Three patients were explored and deemed unresectable. Fifteen hepatic resections (9 segmentectomy or bi/trisegmentectomy, 6 hemi-hepatectomy or extended hepatectomy) and 10 pancreatic resections (6 pancreaticoduodenectomy, 4 distal pancreatectomy/splenectomy) were reviewed; additional organs were resected in 5 patients (2 gastrectomy, 1 colectomy, 1 nephrectomy, 1 adrenalectomy, 1 salpingoophorectomy). Median estimated blood loss for the hepatectomies was 400 mL (range 100 to 1,500 mL) and for the pancreatectomies was 400 mL (range 250 to 1,800 mL). Six patients received preoperative erythropoietin; hemodilution was used in 9 patients and 3 had Cell Saver–generated autotransfusions. Median preoperative hemoglobin was 12.5 g/dL (range 9.5 to 14.4 g/dL) and median postoperative hemoglobin was 10.4 g/dL (range 9 to 12.4 g/dL). In-hospital mortality was 0%. One patient required re-exploration for decreasing hemoglobin and refusal of transfusion; a total of 11 complications developed in 7 other patients (5 wound infection/breakdown, 1 urinary tract infection, 1 ileus, 1 nausea/vomiting, 1 lymphedema, 1 ascites, and 1 ARDS). Median hospital stay was 7 days (range 4 to 23 days). Conclusions Pancreatic and liver resection can be done safely in selected JW patients who refuse blood products by using a variety of blood-conservation techniques to help spare red cell mass.
Microwave measurements on the heavy fermion superconductors UPt3 and UBe13

The complex microwave impedance at ∼11.5 GHz was measured in the superconducting state of two well characterized heavy fermion single crystals, UPt 3 and UBe 13 . This microwave photon energy is about 30% and 20% of the zero-temperature energy gap, respectively, and is higher than previous measurements. The results for UBe 13 seem to be well described by the Mattis-Bardeen theory in the dirty-limit for a conventional superconductor. However, the behavior in UPt 3 deviates from this conventional theory even when paramagnetic impurity scattering effects are taken into account.
Retransplantation in a patient with type 2 Jeune's syndrome

Abstract Jeune's syndrome is a rare inherited cause of kidney failure associated with skeletal dysplasia in children. We report the case of a 20-year-old girl who had Jeune's syndrome type 2 and underwent a second kidney transplant after failure of the first allograft. The patient had 16 years of good allograft function with the first transplant and successfully received a second cadaveric graft. © 2002 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
Characterization of a Macrofiber Piezoelectric Composite

Macrofiber piezoelectric composites are thin rectangular patches made of polyimide film, epoxy and a single layer of rectangular lead zirconium titanate fibers and are commercially available. As a basis for this consideration, the useful life of the MFC is being characterized to determine the effect of loading condition on the performance of the material as it is fatigued by cyclical piezoelectric excitation. The test specimen consists of the MFC laminated to a cantilevered stainless steel beam using epoxy and is actuated at the first resonant frequency of the beam laminate by the cyclic application of 1000 volts. Strain and beam tip displacement measurements are used as a basis for determining the performance of the MFC as it is cyclically actuated under varying beam thicknesses.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Farnesoid X Receptor Responds to Bile Acids and Represses Cholesterol 7α-Hydroxylase Gene (CYP7A1) Transcription

Abstract Cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase gene (CYP7A1) transcription is repressed by bile acids. The goal of this study is to elucidate the mechanism of CYP7A1transcription by bile acid-activated farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in its native promoter and cellular context and to identify FXR response elements in the gene. In Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with retinoid X receptor α (RXRα)/FXR, only chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) were able to stimulate a heterologous promoter/reporter containing an ecdysone response element. In HepG2 cells, all bile acids (25 μm) were able to repressCYP7A1/luciferase reporter activity, and only CDCA and DCA further repressed reporter activity when cotransfected with RXRα/FXR. The concentration of CDCA required to inhibit 50% of reporter activity (IC50) was determined to be approximately 25 μm without FXR and 10 μm with FXR. Deletion analysis revealed that the bile acid response element located between nucleotides −148 and −128 was the FXR response element, but RXRα/FXR did not bind to this sequence. These results suggest that bile acid-activated FXR exerts its inhibitory effect onCYP7A1 transcription by an indirect mechanism, in contrast to the stimulation and binding of FXR to intestinal bile acid-binding protein gene promoter. Results also reveal that bile acid receptors other than FXR are present in HepG2 cells.
What foods are US supermarkets promoting? A content analysis of supermarket sales circulars.

Abstract This study compared the types of foods advertised in supermarket newspaper circulars across geographic region (US Census regions: northeast [n = 9], midwest [n = 15], south [n = 14], and west [n = 13]), obesity-rate region (i.e., states with CDC adult obesity rates of
Aging in the Lumbar Spine. II. L1 and L2

The bodies of the first and second lumbar vertebrae, like those of L3 and L4, show a significant trend toward lowering and broadening with age. Superior, inferior, and midbody transverse breadths increase, but there is little or no increase in endplate "flaring" with age. There is essentially no change in the relationship between anterior and posterior heights, but as reported for L3 and L4, there is a sexual difference in the amount and type of wedging of the bodies of L1 and L2. Posterior wedging (posterior height less than anterior height) of these vertebrae is about twice as common in females as in males. Whites of both sexes show a statistically significant relationship between age and increased biconcavity of the endplates. Black females, but not the males, show a similar trend, especially in L1.
Anti-parallel operation of four high-efficiency avalanche diodes

A new method of combining the power output of an even number of high-efficiency avalanche diodes will be described. Four diodes operated in a microstrip circuit have generated a power of 620 W at 1.026 GHz.
The Essential Elements of Communication in the GRIT Strategy

Two experiments were carried out to evaluate the components of the GRIT strategy for promoting cooperation in mixed-motive conflict. A modified Prisoner's Dilemma game was used. In the first experiment, the presence or absence of an opening general announcement of intention was crossed, in a 2 by 2 design, with the presence or absence of specific announcements of individual acts. The results indicated that the general announcement was both necessary and sufficient, whereas the specific messages were ineffective. In the second experiment, the results indicated that subjects responded more cooperatively to the conciliatory initiatives of the simulated other when the general announcement included an invitation to work together toward a common objective. The effect was not considered strong, however. The GRIT recommendations to include specific announcements of individual acts and an invitation to join in conciliation may have greater usefulness in more complex social interactions.
A Historical Overview of the Ozone Exposure Problem

Ozone can be found in essentially all locations in the troposphere. Too much exposure of vegetation and humans to this potent oxidizing gas can prove toxic. Reports of human toxicity to ozone first appeared in the 1800's from accidental occupational exposures when ozone was first discovered. Ozone was recognized as damaging field vegetation with a report of altered leaf morphology in grapes in the 1950s. Ozone is the major oxidant component in photochemical smog, and is produced by reactions of volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen with sunlight present. Soon after the inception of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), the Agency set a general “oxidants” standard (which included ozone) in 1971. A primary standard was created to protect human health and a secondary standard to protect against agricultural losses, ecological damage, and other losses. Ozone concentrations have decreased steadily over the last two decades in some areas of the U.S., but have increased in other areas. S...
Mass spectra of N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-1,4-phenylenediamine using nitrogen laser and electron impact ionization

Abstract Mass spectra are reported for N,N,N′,N′ -tetramethyl-1,4-phenylenediamine (TMPD). Both electron impact ionization (19 eV and 50 eV electrons) and nitogen laser photoionization (λ = 337 nm) were utilized, and the respective spectra are discussed and compared. In addition, a particularly curious ionization behavior observed under conditions of concurrent laser illumination and electron impact is described; it is proposed that these observations may reflect a cooperative process of electron impact ionization of photoexcited TMPD.
Spectral reflectance of rice seedlings

The spectral reflectance of young rice plants was measured in the visible and near-IR region of the spectrum using a commercially available fiber optic contact probe and miniature spectrometer. This work aims to identify an empirical spectral index which changes when rice is exposed to increased levels of chloride anions in the irrigation water and soil. The ratio of near IR reflectance to that of green, R750/555 is known to be a quantitative measure of chlorophyll content in the leaf but int his study does not show a consistent shift for sample which are exposed to chloride levels equal to or less than 0.1 percent by mass of soil. However, leaf contact spectral reflectance measurements did reveal a significant and consistent increase in R750/555 along the length of the leaves, and this variation should represent an important factor in modeling remote and proximal sensing data.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rating Faculty Collegiality

Most position descriptions for college and university faculty include benchmarks that indicate assumptions about collegiality. For instance, many include within the teaching or service components o...
Potential Impact of Seatbelt Use on the Spectrum of Ocular Injuries and Visual Acuity Outcomes after Motor Vehicle Accidents with Airbag Deployment

Purpose To investigate the association between seatbelt use and (1) the spectrum of ocular injuries and (2) visual acuity outcomes after motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) with airbag deployment. Design Single-center retrospective observational case series. Participants Forty-seven patients involved in MVAs with airbag deployment. Methods Medical record review of all patients evaluated after an MVA with airbag deployment between January, 1997, and August, 2005, at a single level 1 trauma center. Main Outcome Measures Type of ocular injury and visual acuity at 3 months after an MVA. Results Seventy-one percent of patients who did not wear seatbelts experienced type III ocular injuries compared with 31% who wore seatbelts ( P P >0.10); a visual acuity worse than 20/200 was measured in 14% and 0% of patients in the 2 groups, respectively ( P Conclusions In the current study, the use of seatbelts was associated with less severe ocular injuries and better visual outcomes.