cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Studies of Stand-Alone Lance Concepts for Nanoinjection of DNA

Nanoinjection is an innovative approach for the electromechanical injection of DNA into cells, in which DNA is electrically attracted to a lance, inserted into a cell, and repelled by reversing the electrical polarity. In previous work, the lance has been micromachined as part of an on-chip microelectromechanical system. This work investigates a Stand-Alone Lance concept, where the lance and other components are independent of a common substrate. The Stand-Alone Lance may make nanoinjection more accessible to researchers and be more compatible with lab equipment commonly available in transgenic facilities. Required parameters for the electrode are investigated using a mathematical computer model. Different materials and fabrication processes for the metal lance are also considered. Additional testing was performed using tungsten probes, including mock injections on mouse egg cells. Based upon the optimistic cell viability rate, it is recommended to further investigate the use of the Stand-Alone Lance to perform nanoinjections.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Functional determination of oxytocin affinity in near-term pregnant rat myometrium: effect of chronic hypoxia.

Abstract We designed the present study to determine: (1) if phenoxybenzamine can be used as an irreversible blocker for oxytocin receptors, and as such to determine oxytocin affinity, (2) if prolonged hypoxic exposure alters oxytocin receptor coupling efficacy of oxytocin receptors to post-receptor mediated mechanisms in the rat myometrium. Rats were exposed to room air (control), or to continuous hypoxia (10.5% O 2 ) from day 19 through day 21 (2-day exposure). On day 21, one uterine horn was removed and used for in vitro study of myometrial contractile responses to oxytocin, while the other was used for oxytocin receptor analysis. In normoxic tissues, phenoxybenzamine (20 μM) decreased the maximum contractile response ( E MAX ) to oxytocin (155±17 vs. 66±19 g s/cm 2 ) and oxytocin binding sites ( B MAX : 253±35 vs. 114.9±21.3 fmol/mg protein). A similar degree of reduction in E MAX and B MAX were observed in hypoxic tissues. The oxytocin dissociation constant ( K A ) in the normoxic rat was 2.8±0.7 nM, which was not different from the chronic hypoxic rat (3.3±0.9 nM). Analysis of receptor occupancy–response curves indicated no oxytocin receptor reserve in both normoxic and hypoxic myometrium. However, for a given fraction of the total oxytocin receptors occupied, hypoxic tissue elicited a lower contractile response to oxytocin. We conclude that: (1) phenoxybenzamine is a useful tool to functionally study oxytocin receptor kinetics, (2) prolonged hypoxic exposure does not affect the oxytocin affinity, (3) no spare receptors for oxytocin are present in the rat myometrium, and (4) prolonged exposure to hypoxia decreases oxytocin receptor–effector coupling efficiency in rat myometrium.
Fully Integrated Impedance Spectroscopy Systems for Biochemical Sensor Array

With rapid progress in the miniaturization of biosensors, array microsystems utilizing impedance spectroscopy (IS) are of emerging interest. Focused on the electronics portion of such IS microsystems, this paper analyzes FFT-based and frequency response analyzer (FRA)-based approaches and compares them for hardware efficiency in array applications. For the chosen FRA-based approach, two possible systems are described and their circuit-level realizations are presented, one targeting high accuracy applications and the other prioritizing rapid interrogation.
The wireless tightrope: an economical, secure, and user friendly approach for the wireless campus

Integrating a new medium for reading emails, accessing the internet, and student data wirelessly in our existing campus environment seemed to be an insurmountable endeavor. The criteria for accomplishing this feat included the following three key elements; let's do it cheap, let's make it secure, and let's make it easy to use for students and staff of all skill levels. The ultimate goal was to achieve this balance, while covering 7 "Hot Spots", 74 buildings, and 61 classrooms which encompass all 34 sq acres of our campus. Another goal of our wireless initiative was to make it useable for PC, MAC, and Linux clients. For a school of our size (1000+ students) we would have to proceed diligently.This is where the tightrope appears, how are we able to protect our students and staff, while offering a system that is easy and affordable. Most "CLOSED" wireless networks require special hardware (smartcards, or specifics NIC's) or 3rd party software installed on the client. Most "OPEN" wireless networks run on insecure protocols such as WEP.This paper will detail our traversal of this tightrope, and how we achieve this fine balance of security, usability, and cost effectiveness. We will outline the survey, authentication, roaming, security, cryptography, back-end services, and the myriad of hardware choices for access-points. The goal of this paper is to tell our story of the good, bad, and ugly of the wireless tightrope.
Plans For Keck Telescope Instrumentation

We present an overview of the current plans for the development of optical and infrared instrumentation for the Keck Telescope. The physical and optical properties of the telescope are summarized. We also discuss the instrument module concept developed for rapid instrument change. Preliminary descriptions of the instruments currently under consideration are given.
Sugars and starch of wheat bran mash and steam-pellets.

Abstract PELLETING poultry rations has been known for almost 40 years. Reports from England (Molyneaux, 1930) and the U. S. (Patton et al., 1937) were among the first to show increased body weight in chicks after pellet feeding when compared to mash feeding. Since that time, considerable research has been carried out in this field, but no adequate reasons have been discovered to completely account for the phenomenon (Calet, 1965). The obvious advantages and disadvantages of feeding pellets or mash have been listed (Calet, 1965; Arscott, 1967), but it is difficult to cite the actual physical or chemical changes that occur during the steam-pelleting process that account for the large differences found experimentally in metabolizable energy (M.E.) values (Cave et al., 1965). This laboratory is studying the factors which contribute to these differences in observed M.E. values. One factor which seems to be involved is the rupture of aleurone cells during…
ProMED global monitoring of emerging diseases: design for a demonstration program

The emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases, as the result of recent and ongoing social and environmental changes, urgently calls for a global surveillance system, so that unusual outbreaks can be recognized and controlled at an early stage. ProMED, an international non-governmental group of infectious disease experts, was organized by the Federation of American Scientists to promote the establishment of a global Program to Monitor Emerging Diseases. ProMED proposes the establishment of a demonstration program by prioritizing a small number of strategically-located institutions in the developing world, mainly those least in need of upgrading, for development as sentinel centers. In this way a functional, although limited, network with capabilities for monitoring both endemic and emerging diseases could be rapidly established at minimal cost. The network would serve as an experimental model for future expansion. Initially, each center would develop its own local/regional network with which it would exchange information and assistance, and through which it would collect clinical data and specimens for monitoring the emergence of a limited number of defined syndromes. A central program office would provide protocols, assistance, training, quality assurance, communications, etc. and would coordinate fundraising and program activities. If successful, the syndromes monitored would be expanded and additional institutions strengthened to become new network centers.
Influence of Fiber Roughness on the Sliding Behavior of Sapphire Fibers in TiAl and Glass Matrices

Push-out experiments on sapphire fibers in both glass and γ-TiAl matrices show a sinusoidal modulation in the load–displacement trace that is identical in wavelength to the surface roughness of the sapphire fibers. A model, presented in a previous paper, is used to describe the push-out behavior, and is shown to agree with experiment. The results quantitatively validate the key role of fiber surface roughness during fiber sliding.
Status of Photovoltaic Solar Energy Converters

Solar cells will dominate the spacecraft power generation field into the 1970's. Power requirements have increased from the few hundred milliwatts of Vanguard I to the one kilowatt of the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory. This paper discusses the state of the art in solar cells and their modules and mountings; discusses improvements needed, and estimates the future for these devices.
Solvent and concentration effects on 13CH coupling constants and chemical shifts in some dihaloethylenes

Abstract Studies of NMR spectra of several dihaloethylenes over a range of concentrations in cyclohexane and dimethylformamide indicate that both the directly bonded 13CH coupling parameters and corresponding chemical shifts vary with both solvent and concentration, while the vicinal HH couplings are constant within experimental error. Certain qualitative similarities are noted with medium effects on the CX stretching frequencies. General dielectric effects alone appear not to provide a complete explanation. Some form of specific interaction, affecting the halogen substituent, is indicated as a prominent factor in these solvent effects.
Experience with an On-Line Computing System in Low-Energy Nuclear Physics Experiments

During the past three years, an online computing system has been designed, installed and used extensively in connection with low-energy nuclear physics experiments. The system is used by experimenters and both the 4.5 MeV Van de Graaff and the 12 MeV Tandem accelerators at Argonne National Laboratory. At the heart of the system are two inter-connected small computers (ASI 210 and 2100). These machines have fast operation times and both have 8192 words of core memory. Peripheral devices include punched card and paper tape equipment, typewriters, line-printers, two magnetic tape units, and a display oscilloscope with a "light pen." ASI 210 is interfaced to a 4096-channel pulse-height analyzer and to 4 ADC units in the Tandem experimental area. The ASI 2100 has long-line links to the 4 MeV Van de Graaff and to the laboratory's CDC 3600 central processor. Experiments at both accelerators can interrupt the 3600 and use its high computing power to great advantage. The system is currently being augmented by the addition of the large external core memory (98,304 words) addressable by both small computers. The chief function of this memory is to act as a large two-parameter pulse-height analyzer and as additional storage for program. A special on-line data-handling program has been developed which greatly facilitates the acquisition and manipulation of experimental data. A brief description of the entire system will be given together with a description of the various ways in which it has been used.
Argon laser angioplasty with a laser probe.

Abstract A preliminary basic study of argon laser angioplasty with the use of a specially designed probe is presented. Arterial specimens were harvested from 10 amputated lower extremities. The studies included (1) the evaluation of coaxial laser angioplasty in 10 partially or totally occluded arteries; (2) the observation of the effect of perpendicularly applied laser energy on 35 thrombi, 54 soft and 10 hard atherosclerotic, and 51 normal arterial walls; (3) the comparison of laser energy requirements for coaxial vessel lumen enlargement or recanalization vs. perpendicular penetration in 10 occluded, hard atherosclerotic arteries; and (4) the spectrographic analysis of calcium density gradient in two specimens. The results showed that the power required for vessel lumen enlargement was 10 ± 6 J/mm of atherosclerotic vessel (mean ± standard deviation). The probe followed the original arterial lumen, did not perforate the vessel wall, and created a smooth, enlarged path. The power required to penetrate perpendicularly to a similar depth for thrombi, soft and hard atherosclerotic plaques, and normal arterial walls was 15 ± 4, 30 ± 15, 65 ± 32, and 246 ± 123 J/mm, respectively. In the hard calcified specimens, laser energy required for coaxial lumen enlargement or recanalization was significantly less than that for perpendicular penetration (p
Byte-precision level of detail processing for variable precision analytics

I/O bottlenecks in HPC applications are becoming a more pressing problem as compute capabilities continue to outpace I/O capabilities. While double-precision simulation data often must be stored losslessly, the loss of some of the fractional component may introduce acceptably small errors to many types of scientific analyses. Given this observation, we develop a precision level of detail (APLOD) library, which partitions double-precision datasets along user-defined byte boundaries. APLOD parameterizes the analysis accuracy-I/O performance tradeoff, bounds maximum relative error, maintains I/O access patterns compared to full precision, and operates with low overhead. Using ADIOS as an I/O use-case, we show proportional reduction in disk access time to the degree of precision. Finally, we show the effects of partial precision analysis on accuracy for operations such as k-means and Fourier analysis, finding a strong applicability for the use of varying degrees of precision to reduce the cost of analyzing extreme-scale data.
Gene‐specific mechanisms of p53 transcriptional control and prospects for cancer therapy

The regulation of gene-specific activation is critical to the tumor suppressor function by p53. p53 is a well-characterized transcription factor that responds to DNA damage and other genotoxic stresses by the activation of downstream targets that are involved with repair, differentiation, senescence, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Sequence-specific binding to DNA, conformation, post-translational modifications, cofactor binding, stability, and subcellular localization all influence the performance of p53. The purpose of this review is to define features that play a key role in gene-specific activation and to show that these are often incapacitated in cancer cells. Using such knowledge to design selective strategies for the restoration of p53 wild-type function in cancer cells represents a promising cancer therapy.
The Two Worlds of School: Differences in the Photographs of Black and White Adolescents

A growing body of literature indicates that the socialization experiences of blacks causes them to focus onpeople stimuli while Whites learn to focus onobjects. If so, these differences may impact on school performance. This study sought to determine whether the photographs of school taken by black and white adolescents attending three middle schools would reflect race differences in people vs. object orientation. And they did. Moreover, the analyses of the photographs revealed significant race differences in who were included within them, type taken, where they were taken, and the themes they represented. Black students were found to have less affective attachment to school, including teachers, than did whites. Implications for educators are drawn from these findings.
Peripheral nerve stimulation for chronic pain

Electrical stimulation has been used since ancient times to treat painful conditions. Electrotherapy for pain was largely consigned to the realm of quackery until the introduction of the Gate Control Theory by Melzack and Wall in 1965 provided a rationale for direct stimulation of peripheral nerves. Since that time, peripheral nerve stimulation has been applied to the treatment of painful conditions throughout the body, beginning with the major nerves of the extremities and culminating today in precise subcutaneous field stimulation targeted to specific areas of neuropathic pain. This article reviews the history, development, and current areas of interest in peripheral nerve stimulation for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Treatment of dissecting aneurysms of the aorta: Current status

Abstract During the past 7 yr, definitive corrective surgery for acute as well as chronic dissecting aneurysms has developed to the point where, in experienced hands, successful results in the range of 75% can be anticipated. The same 7 yr has seen the introduction and establishment of intensive drug therapy as the initial therapy of choice in all dissecting aneurysms, the primary therapy of choice in many dissecting aneurysms, and a useful adjunctive type of therapy in those patients where definitive surgery is indicated. Definitive diagnosis utilizing aortography to identify the site of the intimal tear and the extent of the dissecting hematoma plus evaluation of the general condition of the patient are the keys to the best use of those two modes of therapy and should lead to a success rate of 90% or better in the near future.
The quest for method: the legacy of Peter Ramus

Over the last five centuries, successive generations of educators have engaged in a re‐evaluation of curriculum and pedagogy in an effort to reveal the mechanisms that underlie the mysteries of the...
The tissue concentration of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine modulates the stimulatory effect of insulin on skeletal muscle glucose uptake

To delineate the biochemical mechanism by which increased availability of GlcN impairs insulin action on skeletal muscle glucose uptake, we replenished the uridine pool during GlcN administration. Co-infusion of uridine with GlcN prevented the GlcN-induced fall in skeletal muscle UDP-glucose levels (24.9 +/- 5. 3 versus 10.1 +/- 2.9 nmol/g; p < 0.01) and further increased the skeletal muscle UDP-GlcNAc levels (198.4 +/- 26.3 versus 96.0 +/- 8. 4 nmol/g; p < 0.01). Greater reductions in the rates of glucose infusion ( approximately 53%), glucose uptake ( approximately 43%), and glycogen synthesis ( approximately 60%) were observed with the addition of uridine. Similarly, the infusion of uridine alone markedly increased the skeletal muscle levels of both UDP-glucose (55.2 +/- 14.2 versus 17.8 +/- 6.1 nmol/g; p < 0.01) and UDP-GlcNAc (86.8 +/- 8.8 versus 35.9 +/- 8.4 nmol/g; p < 0.05) and induced marked insulin resistance. The decrease in insulin action on peripheral glucose uptake was highly correlated with the increase in skeletal muscle UDP-GlcNAc levels. Finally, immunoisolation of GLUT4-containing vesicles revealed that the rate of labeled GlcN incorporation was approximately 100-fold greater following GlcN compared with saline infusions (p < 0.01). We suggest that the marked reduction in insulin action induced by GlcN and uridine is mediated by increased accumulation of muscle UDP-N-acetylhexosamines, perhaps via altered glycosylation of protein(s) in GLUT4-containing vesicles.
Syntheses, structures, and properties of the bis(cyclopentadienyl) rare-earth imidodiphosphinochalocogenido compounds Cp2Ln[N(QPPh2)2] (Ln = La, Gd, Er, or Yb for Q = Se; Ln = Yb for Q = S).

The compounds Cp2Ln[N(QPPh2)2] (Ln = La (1), Gd (2), Er (3), or Yb (4) for Q = Se, Ln = Yb (5) for Q = S) have been synthesized from the corresponding rare-earth tris(cyclopentadienyl) compound and H[N(QPPh2)2]. The structures of compounds 1, 2, 3, and 5, as determined by X-ray crystallography, consist of a Cp2Ln fragment, coordinated eta 3 through two chalcogen atoms and an N atom of the imidodiphosphinochalcogenido ligand [N(QPPh2)2]-. In compound 4, the Cp2Yb moiety is coordinated eta 2 through the two Se atoms of the [N(SePPh2)2]-ligand. 31P and 77Se (for 1) NMR spectroscopies lend insight into the solution nature of these species. Crystal data: 1, C34H30LaNP2Se2, triclinic, P1, a = 9.7959(10) A, b = 12.4134(13) A, c = 13.9077(14) A, alpha = 88.106(2) degrees, beta = 88.327(2) degrees, gamma = 68.481(2) degrees, V = 1572.2(3) A3, T = 153 K, Z = 2, and R1(F) = 0.0257 for the 5947 reflections with I > .2 sigma(I); 2, C34H30GdNP2Se2, triclinic, P1, a = 9.7130(14) A, b = 12.2659(17) A, c = 13.953(2) A, alpha = 88.062(2) degrees, beta = 87.613(2) degrees, gamma = 69.041(2) degrees, V = 1550.7(4) A3, T = 153 K, Z = 2, and R1(F) = 0.0323 for the 5064 reflections with I > 2 sigma(I); 3, C34H30ErNP2Se2, triclinic, P1, a = 9.704(2) A, b = 12.222(3) A, c = 13.980(4) A, alpha = 88.230(4) degrees, beta = 87.487(4) degees, gamma = 69.107(4) degrees, V = 1547.4(7) A3, T = 153 K, Z = 2, and R1(F) = 0.0278 for the 6377 reflections with I > 2 sigma(I); 4, C34H30NP2Se2Yb.C4H8O, triclinic, P1, a = 12.087(4) A, b = 12.429(4) A, c = 23.990(7) A, alpha = 89.406(5) degrees, beta = 86.368(5) degrees, gamma = 81.664(5) degrees, V = 3558.8(18) A3, T = 153 K, Z = 4, and R1(F) = 0.0321 for the 11,883 reflections with I > 2 sigma(I); and 5, C34H30NP2S2Yb, monoclinic, P21/n, a = 13.8799(18) A, b = 12.6747(16) A, c = 17.180(2) A, beta = 91.102(3) degrees, V = 3021.8(7) A3, T = 153 K, Z = 4, and R1(F) = 0.0218 for the 6698 reflections with I > 2 sigma(I).
Using coarse filters to encode intensity and color information

Inspired by models of natural vision processing, intensity and color information are encoded and successfully decoded using coarse coding. Primate photoreceptors are known to include one rod and three cones, each with a unique spectral absorption curve. Although the curves overlap significantly, vision systems are capable of incredible chromatic acuity and spatial luminous acuity. A proof of concept is demonstrated here using simulated absorption curves and an algorithm representing a cursory model of vision processing. The color and intensity of objects within test images are successfully retrieved after passing through only two coarse filters arranged in a checkerboard fashion. A consequence of such a filter is a natural edge enhancement of the objects within the image.
Family of crack-tip fields characterized by a triaxiality parameter—II. Fracture applications

Abstract C entral to the J-based fracture mechanics approach is the concept of J-dominance whereby J alone sets the stress level as well as the size scale of the zone of high stresses and strains. In Part I the idea of a J Q annulus was developed. Within the annulus, the plane strain plastic near-tip fields are members of a family of solutions parameterized by Q when distances are normalized by J σ 0 , where σ0is the yield stress, J and Q have distinct roles: J sets the size scale over which large stresses and strains develop while Q scales the near-tip stress distribution and the stress triaxiality achieved ahead of the crack. Specifically, negative (positive) Q values mean that the hydrostatic stress is reduced (increased) by Qσ0 from the Q = 0 plane strain reference state. Therefore Q provides a quantitative measure of crack-tip constraint, a term widely used in the literature concerning geometry and size effects on a material's resistance to fracture. These developments are discussed further in this paper. It is shown that the J Q approach considerably extends the range of applicability of fracture mechanics for shallow-crack geometries loaded in tension and bending, and deep-crack geometries loaded in tension. The J Q theory provides a framework to organize toughness data as a function of constraint and to utilize such data in engineering applications. Two methods for estimating Q at fully yielded conditions and an interpolation scheme are discussed. The effects of crack size and specimen type on fracture toughness are addressed.
Cellular resolution volumetric in vivo retinal imaging with adaptive optics–optical coherence tomography

Ultrahigh-resolution adaptive optics-optical coherence tomography (UHR-AO-OCT) instrumentation allowing monochromatic and chromatic aberration correction was used for volumetric in vivo retinal imaging of various retinal structures including the macula and optic nerve head (ONH). Novel visualization methods that simplify AO-OCT data viewing are presented, and include co-registration of AO-OCT volumes with fundus photography and stitching of multiple AO-OCT sub-volumes to create a large field of view (FOV) high-resolution volume. Additionally, we explored the utility of Interactive Science Publishing by linking all presented AO-OCT datasets with the OSA ISP software.
The Challenge of Religious Pluralism: The Association Between Interfaith Contact and Religious Pluralism

This research contributes to increasing understanding of the ways in which Christians think about religious pluralism in the United States. It does so by empirically uncovering the relationship between inter-faith contact and the willingness of white Christians to support tenets of religious pluralism. To that end, this study largely intimates that religious identity reinforces a dualistic world view. For white Christians, it is likely that contact with Jews and not Muslims is salient to their religious pluralist understandings. Nonetheless, more so than other Christians, Evangelicals tend to embrace a theology that views their belief system as being in conflict and competition with non-Christians. To that end, it is plausible that even when Christians have positive contact experiences with Jews and Muslims, Evangelicals are less willing than are other Christians to recognize them as members of the American religious polity.
Cellular correlates of classical conditioning in identified light responsive pedal neurons of hermissenda crassicornis

Abstract Cellular correlates of classical conditioning were examined in two recently identified light responsive pedal neurons. The correlates of conditioning consisted of significant decreases in the pedal cells' responses to light (conditioned stimulus) recorded from conditioned animals compared to random controls. Pedal cell P7, which exhibits an inhibitory response to light in naive animals, showed significantly less inhibition during a 5 min light step in conditioned animals as compared to random controls. Pedal neuron P9, which exhibits an excitatory response to light in naive animals, showed significantly less excitation during a 10 s light step conditioned animals as compared to random controls. The changes in the response to light recorded from pedal neurons P7 and P9 in conditioned animals were not accompanied by any significant changes in membrane potential, action potential amplitude or dark-adapted spike frequency.
Comparison of the capsid protein cistron from serologically distinct strains of sweetpotato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV)

Complementary DNA clones corresponding to the 3′ terminus of sweetpotato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV) strains RC and C were synthesized and sequenced. An open reading frame followed by a 3′ terminal non-coding region of 222 nucleotides and a terminal polyadenylation track was present in clones from both strains. Putative N-terminal capsid protein cleavage sites were identified for both strains 945 nucleotides 5′ of the first stop codon. Sequence comparisons of these strains show 98% nucleic acid identity in the last 351 nucleotides of the capsid protein cistron and 100% in the corresponding amino acids. This relatively short homologous sequence element near the C terminus is responsible for the wide spectrum hybridization among SPFMV strains using in vitro transcribed antiviral RNA probes (riboprobes). The sequence similarity in the remaining N terminal 645 nucleotides is only 62% and 65% for their predicted amino acids. A tendency of decreasing nucleotide mismatches in the alignment from 5′ to 3′ end of both capsid protein cistrons was detected. Although the alignment of the predicted amino acid sequence of the SPFMVRC capsid protein with those of other potyviruses showed significant homology, hybridization with riboprobes from both the 5′ and 3′ regions of the capsid protein cistron of SPFMV was virus-specific.
Temperature Measurements in Alternating Current Cross-Flow Arcs

Using optical techniques appropriate to columns having non-circular cross-section, temperature distributions within an alternating current cross-flow arc column have been obtained. Experiments were conducted upon a 61.1 A rms, 840 Torr argon AC plasma (having 11.2 mm electrode spacing) in a crossflow of 1.1 m/s. Isotherm distributions, obtained in horizontal planes, were generally non-circular with major axis in the direction of flow. Column deflections increased as arc current was reduced. The (characteristic) temperature-time history showed that temperature reached a minimum following current zero.
Methylxanthine treatment of rats reduces 2,5-oligoadenylate synthesis in liver nuclei

The in vivo effects of methylxanthines on 2’,5'‐oligoadenylate (2,5An) synthetase activity, an interferon‐inducible enzyme, were investigated in rat liver nuclei. Caffeine given at 50 mg/kg ip or theobromine given at 80 mg/kg sc twice daily for 5 d resulted in a 60% reduction (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) of 2,5An synthetase activity in liver nuclei. Theophylline given at 80 mglkg sc by the same regimen reduced the enzyme activity by 42% (p < 0.05). Nuclear 2'‐phosphodiesterase activity, which catalyzes the degradation of 2,5An, remained low and unchanged following the drug treatments. When animals receiving caffeine were also given the interferon inducer poly(l)poly(C) at 500 μg/kg ip once daily for the last 2 d of caffeine treatment, it resulted in the same fourfold increase in 2,5An synthetase activity as shown with poly(l)poly(C) alone. These results suggest that methylxanthines may interact with interferon‐mediated actions. The reason for the inhibitory effect of methylxanthines on the basal ...
Trichinella spiralis: Genetics of worm expulsion in inbred and F1 mice infected with different worm doses

Abstract The nematode Trichinella spiralis is rejected from the intestine at a time that is characteristic for each inbred strain of mouse. Previous work (R. G. Bell et al. 1982a) had empirically identified strong, intermediate, and weak phenotypes (NFR, C H He , and C57 10 mice, respectively) in mice infected with 400 muscle larvae. It is shown that this classification applies to another eight inbred strains: SWR, DBA 2 , DBA 1 , LP, Bub Bn —all intermediate, and NZB BIN , C57L, A, and Mus molossinus—all weak. This phenotypic classification consistently applies with infections of 400–800 muscle larvae. Below doses of 300 muscle larvae, the strain designation of phenotype does not consistently apply. By this it is meant that the relative rejection rate changes for certain strains so that eventually some strains that were strong (NFR) or intermediate (AKR) responders to 400 muscle larvae become weak responders to 50 muscle larvae. Other strains increase their relative rejection time (B10 · BR, B10 · Q) while many do not change (NFS, C 3 Heb Fe , DBA 2 , DBA 1 ). The phenomenon is most apparent in inbred parental strains rather than in F1 crosses, and it represents a phenotypic variation in rejection time that is dependent on dose. It is also demonstrated that time of rejection is directly proportional to dose in all inbred and F1 mouse strains that we have examined. Analysis of F1 crosses shows that most have the rejection time of the strongest responding parental line, suggesting simple genetic control of strong, intermediate, and weak responses. Two F1 crosses invalidated this theory. The DBA 1 × C3 H He (intermediate × intermediate) showed a strong response. The additive effects of parental rejection phenotype indicated that these lines could not be genetically identical for intermediate responsiveness. Similarly, the NFR (strong) × B10 · BR (weak) F1 showed intermediate rejection, indicating partial dominance of C 57 B 1 10 genes over the strong responder NFR strain. Neither the primary expulsion time phenotype, phenotypic variation to low doses, or the rejection characteristics of F1 crosses could be ascribed to genes linked to the major histocompatibility complex.
In vivo voltammetric determination of the kinetics of dopamine metabolism in the rat.

Abstract In vivo voltammetry at carbon paste electrodes placed in the striatum of chloral hydrate-anesthetized rats was used to monitor changes in extracellular 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) following 1-min periods of electrical stimulation of the ascending nigro-striatal pathways. Statistical analysis of resultant changes in DOPAC allows simultaneous determination of the rate constants for the turnover of both dopamine (DA) (0.046/min) and DOPAC (0.053/min). The data demonstrate that there are substantial temporal differences between neuronal release of DA and changes in striatal DOPAC levels. This should be considered when metabolite measurements are used as an index of neurotransmitter activity.
Is there a role for probiotics in irritable bowel syndrome

This brief review appraises the current evidence of the efficacy of probiotics, including lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and VSL#3, in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The mechanisms potentially important will be evaluated, with specific reference to immune function, effects on motility and intraluminal milieu. These experimental and clinical observations suggest that probiotics may play a role in the management of IBS.
Terminal differentiation in human promyelocytic leukaemic cells in the absence of DNA synthesis.

Some phorbol diesters, the most potent of which is 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), exert two different effects on the differentiation of leukaemic cells in vitro: they reversibly inhibit the differentiation in Friend mouse erythroleukaemia cells1,2 and mouse myeloid leukaemia M1 cells3, and they induce differentiation in other mouse erythroleukaemia cells4, mouse myeloid leukaemia cells5, human promyelocytic leukaemia cells5–9 and cells of patients with myeloid and myelomonocytic leukaemia10. The effect on human leukaemic cells is both irreversible and independent of the continuous presence of the drug7. We report here that TPA-induced differentiation of human promyelocytic leukaemia cells (HL60) need not be preceded by a round of DNA synthesis, and that the majority of TPA-treated cells accumulate in the G1 phase of the cell cycle.
Consideration of the ICRP 2006 revised tissue weighting factors on age-dependent values of the effective dose for external photons

The effective dose recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) is the sum of organ equivalent doses weighted by corresponding tissue weighting factors, w(T). ICRP is in the process of revising its 1990 recommendations on the effective dose where new values of organs and tissue weighting factors have been proposed and published in draft form for consultation by the radiological protection community. In its 5 June 2006 draft recommendations, new organs and tissues have been introduced in the effective dose which do not exist within the 1987 Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) phantom series (e.g., salivary glands). Recently, the investigators at University of Florida have updated the series of ORNL phantoms by implementing new organ models and adopting organ-specific elemental composition and densities. In this study, the effective dose changes caused by the transition from the current recommendation of ICRP Publication 60 to the 2006 draft recommendations were investigated for external photon irradiation across the range of ICRP reference ages (newborn, 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, 15-year and adult) and for six idealized irradiation geometries: anterior-posterior (AP), posterior-anterior (PA), left-lateral (LLAT), right-lateral (RLAT), rotational (ROT) and isotropic (ISO). Organ-absorbed doses were calculated by implementing the revised ORNL phantoms in the Monte Carlo radiation transport code, MCNPX2.5, after which effective doses were calculated under the 1990 and draft 2006 evaluation schemes of the ICRP. Effective doses calculated under the 2006 draft scheme were slightly higher than estimated under ICRP Publication 60 methods for all irradiation geometries exclusive of the AP geometry where an opposite trend was observed. The effective doses of the adult phantom were more greatly affected by the change in tissue weighting factors than that seen within the paediatric members of the phantom series. Additionally, dose conversion coefficients for newly identified radiosensitive organs--salivary glands, gall bladder, heart and prostate--were reported, as well as the brain, which was originally considered in ICRP Publication 60 as a member of the remainder category of the effective dose.
The Proportion of Volatile Aerosols on the Island of Hawaii.

Abstract Nephelometry, in conjunction with a tube furnace and an Aitken nuclei counter, has been applied to the investigation of the volatile component of the aerosol budget at Cape Kumukahi, Hilo. and Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii. It was found that heating of the incoming air sample resulted in a decrease in light scattering above 100C due to the loss of organics and other easily volatilized compounds, and a drastic increase in Aitken nuclei counts at temperatures above 150C in the presence of ammonium sulfate. In the marine aerosol, a decrease in light mattering at about 45C was observed which is probably due to the loss of moisture during the phase transition from droplet to crystal. A second decrease near 120C is probably caused by the volatilization of organics from the droplet aerosol. In heating to 150C, the amount of light-scattering decrease was found to depend on the air mass. On occasions when volcanic effluent was apparently present, an increase in Aitken nuclei was noted in the heated air. T...
Feasibility of Storing Natural Gas in Hydrates Commercially

: A study to determine the feasibility of using gas hydrates to store natural gas for peak-load use in electric power plants and other commercial applications gives new impetus for practical utilization of unique gas-hydrate storage properties. Laboratory apparatus was constructed to evaluate storage capacity attainable with hydrates and to achieve formation/decomposition rates of the hydrates at a level allowing commercial use. A fiber optics-camera system was installed to view the action inside the hydrate test cell; photographs are presented that give insight into hydrate formation at the gas/liquid interface, as well as the formation mechanism and packing density. From a quiescent water solution in a cell that contained 286 ppm sodium dodecyl sulfate, storage capacity of 155 vol/vol of natural gas in hydrates was achieved at a constant pressure of 3.89 MPa (550 psig) and a temperature of 276 K (37°F); 86% of the theoretical maximum storage capacity was achieved within 2.5 hours of hydrate initiation; hydrate particles were adsorbed on the vessel walls; interstitial water of the particles formed hydrates to give high-density packing. Formation rates and process simplification were such that a complete formation/decomposition cycle of commercial scale could be achieved within a 24-hour period. The work suggests the possibility of storing gas in hydrates industrially by means of a simple, quiescent system that rapidly forms the hydrates and packs the mass for storage.
Compartment syndrome performance improvement project is associated with increased combat casualty survival.

Abstract : BACKGROUND: In 2008, we showed that incomplete or delayed extremity fasciotomies were associated with mortality and muscle necrosis in war casualties with limb injury. Subsequently, we developed an education program focused on surgeon knowledge gaps regarding the diagnosis of compartment syndrome and prophylactic fasciotomy. The program included educational alerts, classroom training, video instruction, and a research publication. We compared casualty data before and after the program implementation to determine whether the education altered outcomes. METHODS: Similar to the previous study, a case series was made from combat casualty medical records. Casualties were US military servicemen with fasciotomies performed in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Germany between two periods (periods 1 and 2). RESULTS: In both periods, casualty demographics were similar. Most fasciotomies were performed to the lower leg and forearm. Period 1 had 336 casualties with 643 fasciotomies, whereas Period 2 had 268 casualties with 1,221 fasciotomies (1.9 vs. 4.6 fasciotomies per casualty, respectively; p G 0.0001). The mortality rate decreased in Period 2 (3%, 8 of 268 casualties) from Period 1 (8%, 26 of 336 casualties; p = 0.0125). Muscle excision and major amputation rates were similar in both periods (p 9 0.05). Rates of casualties with revision fasciotomy decreased to 8% in Period 2, (22 of 268 casualties) versus 15% in Period 1 (51 of 336 casualties; p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Combat casualty care following implementation of a fasciotomy education program was associated with improved survival, higher fasciotomy rates, and fewer revisions. Because delayed fasciotomy rates were unchanged, further effort to educate providers may be indicated.
Effects of glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin) on pulmonary vascular pressures in standing Thoroughbred horses

Strenuously exercising Thoroughbreds exhibit a dramatic increase in pulmonary capillary blood pressure, which contributes to stress failure of pulmonary capillaries resulting in exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH). One strategy to prevent EIPH is, therefore, to lower the pulmonary capillary blood pressure of exercising horses. Recent work in several species suggests that nitric oxide plays a significant role in maintaining low vascular resistance in the pulmonary circulation; however, the effects of nitrovasodilators (which work via the same mechanism as nitric oxide) on equine pulmonary circulation have not been examined. The present study examined the effects of glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin) on right atrial and pulmonary vascular pressures in 7 healthy sound Thoroughbred horses. Freshly prepared nitroglycerin solution was infused for 240 s into the right atrium of quietly standing Thoroughbreds at dose rates of 350, 700, 1400 and 2100 g/min in a randomised manner. All infusions were performed in duplicate. Heart rate, right atrial, pulmonary artery, pulmonary capillary and pulmonary artery wedge pressures were determined preinfusion, at 30 s intervals during nitroglycerin infusions and at 60 s post infusion. Measurements were made using catheter mounted manometers whose in vivo signals had been matched with fluid-filled systems referenced at the level of the point of the shoulder. It was observed that nitroglycerin infusions caused a dose related increase in heart rate while dose related reductions occurred in the mean right atrial, pulmonary artery, pulmonary artery wedge and pulmonary capillary pressures. At 2100 micrograms/min, nitroglycerin induced reduction in pulmonary artery wedge pressure was significantly greater than that in the pulmonary artery pressure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
On-Chip Delay Measurement Based Response Analysis for Timing Characterization

We present techniques for response analysis for timing characterization, i.e., delay test and debug of Integrated Circuits (ICs), using on-chip delay measurement of critical paths of the IC. Delay fault are a major source of failure in modern ICs designed in Deep Sub-micron technologies, making it imperative to perform delay fault testing on such ICs. Delay fault testing schemes should enable detection of gross as well as small delay faults in such ICs to be efficient. Additionally there is a need for performing efficient and systematic silicon debug for timing related failures. The timing characterization techniques presented in this paper overcome the observability limitations of existing timing characterization schemes in achieving the aforementioned goals, thus enabling quick and efficient timing characterization of DSM ICs. Additionally the schemes have low hardware overhead and are robust in face of process variations.
Kionaster petersonae , n. gen. and sp. (Asteroidea), the first fossil occurrence of the Asterodiscididae, from the Miocene of Florida

Kionaster petersonae, n. gen. and sp., from the Miocene Chipola Formation of Florida, is the first-known fossil member of the extant family Asterodiscididae Rowe. Although abactinal and marginal expressions clearly serve to distinguish the Asterodiscididae, the family was recognized only relatively recently, in part perhaps because assigned genera are few and these occur in traditionally less heavily collected areas. The original inferred presence of reduced numbers of marginal ossicles in the family is rejected. Phylogenetic analysis suggests close affinities between asterodiscidids and Goniaster L. Agassiz, 1836 (Goniasteridae). Kionaster appears closest to the eastern Pacific asterodiscidids rather than Asterodiscides itself, which is widely distributed farther west in the Pacific. Distinctive characters of Kionaster suggest a once-greater diversity within the family. Although data are limited, morphologic similarities and biogeographic distributions suggest familial origin in a low-latitude Western Hemisphere setting and the Atlantic Ocean prior to the closing of the Isthmus of Panama.
Oriental fruit fly 1 and melon fly 1 : Biological and chemical studies of smoke produced by males 2

Abstract A substance visible as “smoke”; is emitted by males of both the oriental fruit fly, Dacus dorsalis Hendel, and the melon fly, D. cucurbitae Coquillet, at dusk, the period associated with the mating of these tephritids. The emanations were attractive to virgin females. Light‐yellow and bright‐orange deposits were obtained on Millipore filters used to trap smoke produced by males of D. dorsalis and D. cucurbitae, respectively. Chemical analysis indicated that large amounts of trisodiunt phosphate and other phosphorus salts were present in the smoke of both species. Melon fly smoke also contained unbranched C25, C27, and C29 saturated hydrocarbons, as well as a lactone, while oriental fruit fly smoke contained heptacosane, N‐(2‐methylbutyl)‐propionamide and a small amount of several high‐molecular weight substances.
Porphyromonas gingivalis short fimbriae are regulated by a FimS/FimR two-component system

Porphyromonas gingivalis possesses two distinct fimbriae. The long (FimA) fimbriae have been extensively studied. Expression of the fimA gene is tightly controlled by a two-component system (FimS/FimR) through a cascade regulation. The short (Mfa1) fimbriae are less understood. The authors have recently demonstrated that both fimbriae are required for formation of P. gingivalis biofilms. Here, the novel finding that FimR, a member of the two-component regulatory system, is a transcriptional activator of the mfa1 gene is promoted. Unlike the regulatory mechanism of FimA by FimR, this regulation of the mfa1 gene is accomplished by FimR directly binding to the promoter region of mfa1.
Prevention of Child Maltreatment

Pediatricians and other health care providers can play several important roles in the prevention of child maltreatment. This article aims to help pediatricians incorporate child abuse prevention into their practice. Resources for systematizing anticipatory guidance and screening for risk factors in child maltreatment are described. The modalities, strengths, and weaknesses of community-based prevention programs are discussed, and tools with which providers can identify the effectiveness of available community-based programs are offered. On a broader level, ways whereby pediatricians can advocate at the local, state, and national levels for policies and programs that support families and children are described.