cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cerebral venous and arterial blood volumes can be estimated separately in humans using magnetic resonance imaging.

Approaches to obtain quantitative, noninvasive estimates of total cerebral blood volume (tCBV) and cerebral venous blood volume (vCBV) separately in humans are proposed. Two sequences were utilized, including a 3D high-resolution gradient-echo (GE) sequence and a 2D multi-echo GE/spin-echo (MEGESE) sequence. Images acquired by the former sequence provided an estimate of background magnetic field variations (ΔB), while images obtained by the latter sequence were utilized to obtain separate measures of tCBV and vCBV with and without contrast agent. Prior to the calculation of vCBV and tCBV, the acquired images were corrected for signal loss induced by the presence of ΔB. vCBV and tCBV were estimated to be 2.46% ± 0.28% and 3.20% ± 0.41%, respectively, after the ΔB correction, which in turn provided a vCBV/tCBV ratio of 0.77 ± 0.04, in excellent agreement with results reported in the literature. Our results demonstrate that quantitative estimates of vCBV and tCBV can be obtained in vivo. Magn Reson Med 48:583–588, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Improving health care for underserved infants, children, and adolescents. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's experience.

Improving the health care of this nation's infants, children, and adolescents has been a priority of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation since its inception as a national philanthropy in 1972. The foundation has awarded grants totaling almost $243 million, approximately 22% of the foundation's overall grant-making to date, to programs whose aim is to improve the health of infants, children, and adolescents. The foundation has used three major strategies in its child health efforts: service demonstrations to develop and test new models of care, research to improve the knowledge base and assess the efficacy of its service demonstrations, and training to better prepare health care providers to address common child health problems. Given the foundation's mission to improve the health care system, and particularly its long-standing interest in improving access to care, more than two thirds of its child health funding has supported service projects targeting underserved children. The foundation's
Aging and demographic plasticity in response to experimental age structures in honeybees (Apis mellifera L)

Honeybee colonies are highly integrated functional units characterized by a pronounced division of labor. Division of labor among workers is mainly age-based, with younger individuals focusing on in-hive tasks and older workers performing the more hazardous foraging activities. Thus, experimental disruption of the age composition of the worker hive population is expected to have profound consequences for colony function. Adaptive demography theory predicts that the natural hive age composition represents a colony-level adaptation and thus results in optimal hive performance. Alternatively, the hive age composition may be an epiphenomenon, resulting from individual life history optimization. We addressed these predictions by comparing individual worker longevity and brood production in hives that were composed of a single-age cohort, two distinct age cohorts, and hives that had a continuous, natural age distribution. Four experimental replicates showed that colonies with a natural age composition did not consistently have a higher life expectancy and/or brood production than the single-cohort or double-cohort hives. Instead, a complex interplay of age structure, environmental conditions, colony size, brood production, and individual mortality emerged. A general tradeoff between worker life expectancy and colony productivity was apparent, and the transition from in-hive tasks to foraging was the most significant predictor of worker lifespan irrespective of the colony age structure. We conclude that the natural age structure of honeybee hives is not a colony-level adaptation. Furthermore, our results show that honeybees exhibit pronounced demographic plasticity in addition to behavioral plasticity to react to demographic disturbances of their societies.
Eimeria Spp.: Influence of coccidia on digestion (amylolytic activity) in broiler chickens

Abstract Loss in pancreatic weight and an overall decrease in amylolytic activity in the pancreas were seen in broiler chickens infected with Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, and E. necatrix. Only E. acervulina and E. maxima reduced amylolytic activity in the surface mucosa of the regions they infected. Surface-bound amylolytic activity decreased as the severity of infection (as measured by lesion score) with E. acervulina increased. This decrease in activity was not related to the decreased feed consumption in infected birds. Little decrease in amylase activity was found in the lumenal contents with the exception of E. acervulina in the jejunum. When the effect of pH on enzyme activity was studied in vitro, a marked reduction in amylolytic activity was observed as the pH went below 5.0.
Motions of a swinging Atwood's machine

2014 The Lagrangian L03BC (r, 03B8) = 1/2(1 + 03BC)r2 + 1 2r203B82r(03BC cos 03B8) with 1 03BC ~ 3.1 is studied using a surface of section map. Regular and chaotic behaviour is exhibited. The numerical evidence suggests the motion is integrable for 03BC = 3. Integrability is proved by explicitly exhibiting a first integral. J. Physique 46 (1985) 1495-1500 SEPTEMBRE 1985, Classification Physics Abstracts 02.30 03.20
Simple technique of left heart bypass

Left heart bypass is typically established by left atrial appendage cannulation. We report a technique using inferior pulmonary vein cannulation, which is technically simpler. We have used this technique in 20 cases with reliable venous inflow.
Variable Expression of PIK3R3 and PTEN in Ewing Sarcoma Impacts Oncogenic Phenotypes

Ewing Sarcoma is an aggressive malignancy of bone and soft tissue affecting children and young adults. Ewing Sarcoma is driven by EWS/Ets fusion oncoproteins, which cause widespread alterations in gene expression in the cell. Dysregulation of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, particularly involving IGF-1R, also plays an important role in Ewing Sarcoma pathogenesis. However, the basis of this dysregulation, including the relative contribution of EWS/Ets-dependent and independent mechanisms, is not well understood. In the present study, we identify variable expression of two modifiers of PI3K signaling activity, PIK3R3 and PTEN, in Ewing Sarcoma, and examine the consequences of this on PI3K pathway regulation and oncogenic phenotypes. Our findings indicate that PIK3R3 plays a growth-promotional role in Ewing Sarcoma, but suggest that this role is not strictly dependent on regulation of PI3K pathway activity. We further show that expression of PTEN, a well-established, potent tumor suppressor, is lost in a subset of Ewing Sarcomas, and that this loss strongly correlates with high baseline PI3K pathway activity in cell lines. In support of functional importance of PTEN loss in Ewing Sarcoma, we show that re-introduction of PTEN into two different PTEN-negative Ewing Sarcoma cell lines results in downregulation of PI3K pathway activity, and sensitization to the IGF-1R small molecule inhibitor OSI-906. Our findings also suggest that PTEN levels may contribute to sensitivity of Ewing Sarcoma cells to the microtubule inhibitor vincristine, a relevant chemotherapeutic agent in this cancer. Our studies thus identify PIK3R3 and PTEN as modifiers of oncogenic phenotypes in Ewing Sarcoma, with potential clinical implications.
Outcomes of second-trimester pregnancy terminations with misoprostol: comparing 2 regimens.

Objective The purpose of this study was compare outcomes of second-trimester pregnancy terminations with misoprostol between our previous low- (200 μg every 12 h) and present high-dose (400 μg every 6 h) regimens. Study design This was an historic cohort study that was conducted from June 1996 to February 2004 on women undergoing medical termination of pregnancy at 13 to 27 weeks. Exclusion criteria were multiple gestation, placenta previa, and primary use of another medication. Results The cohort consisted of 147 women. For the low- (n=100) and high-dose (n=47) groups, respectively, median times to delivery were 22.5 vs 13.25 hours ( P =.001). More patients in the high-dose group were delivered vaginally within 24 (81% vs 54%; P =.002) and 48 hours (98% vs 84%; P =.014). Fewer patients in the high-dose group required a second abortifacient (6% vs 27%; P =.004). Clinical chorioamnionitis was more common in the high-dose group ( P =.03). One patient experienced a uterine rupture and is included in the analysis. Side effects were uncommon and did not differ between groups. Conclusion Our present high-dose regimen for misoprostol terminations of pregnancy effects delivery more rapidly without an appreciable increase in side effects or complications.
Urbanicity, race, and psychological distress

Data from random samples of 645 rural White respondents, 398 rural Black respondents, and 700 urban residents of Nashville, Tennessee (375 White, 326 Black participants), are presented that address urbanicity and race differences in depressive symptoms, psychophysiologic symptoms, and general well-being. After demographic controls, significant urban-rural differences were found only on depressive symptoms, with greater distress in rural areas. Black participants had significantly higher depression scores than White respondents, though race differences were reversed on psychophysiologic symptoms and general well-being. Interaction effects were striking. Urban-rural differences were specific to Black participants—rural Black residents had higher depressive symptom scores than urban Black residents. These differences were reversed on psychophysiologic symptoms and well-being. Race differences were specific to the rural sample; rural Black respondents manifested more depressive symptoms than did rural White participants, though rural White residents had more psychophysiologic symptoms and lower well-being. These findings withstood further controls for migration/length of residence. Implications of these findings for stress models of urbanicity and race differences are considered.
Resistance to the Angoumois Grain Moth in Some Varieties of Rough Rice from the USDA World Collection

Seed from 111 rice varieties from the USDA World Collection appeared resistant to Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) in an unreplicated screening study. These varieties were propagated in Beaumont, TX, in 1974 and 1975 and used in replicated trials. The world collection lines were generally less susceptible to infestation than 6 commercial varieties, and 32 world collection lines showed strong indication of resistance.
Reprogramming of gene expression during preimplantation development

A fundamental problem in early mammalian development is the transformation of the highly differentiated oocyte into the totipotent blastomeres by the 2-cell stage. This remarkable transformation probably entails reprogramming the pattern of gene expression. The maternal-to-zygotic transition occurs during the 1-cell stage, i.e., 1-cell embryo is transcriptionally active. DNA replication is a likely locus of regulation, since DNA replication, with consequent nucleosome displacement, would serve to facilitate the access of maternally derived transcription factors to their cis-acting DNA-binding sequences. In fact, the first round of DNA replication is essential for the expression of two genes, eIF-1A and the transcription-requiring complex (TRC), as well as global transcription. A growing body of evidence suggests that a transcriptionally repressive state develops during the 2-cell stage. Interestingly, inhibiting the second round of DNA replication inhibits the decrease in expression of both the TRC and eIF-1A, as well as total endogenous gene expression. This repression may be linked to a change in chromatin structure, since treatment of 2-cell embryos with histone deacetylase inhibitors prevents the decrease in expression of the TRC and eIF-1A, and also inhibits the development of the transcriptionally repressive state for global gene expression. The findings that histone deacetylases can be targeted to chromatin provide a mechanism to link histone deacetylation with repression of gene expression. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 285:276-282, 1999.
Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the myocardium : A case report, review of the literature, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study

Abstract We report the case of a primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) arising in the heart of a 63-year-old man. The neuroectodermal nature of this tumor was confirmed by the immunohistochemical positivity for 013 (CD99) (the p3032MIC2 gene product) neuron specific enolase (monoclonal and polyclonal), synaptophysin and vimentin. Other markers, such as actin, desmin, myoglobin, chromogranin, keratin, and leukocyte common antigen were negative. The diagnosis was made on an endomyocardial biopsy and was confirmed in sections from the myocardial tumor found within the heart excised during cardiac transplant. Primitive neuroectodermal tumors have been reported in a variety of sites, most commonly in the extremities. No case has ever been reported within the myocardium, although one has been reported in the pericardium. In addition to morphological similarities, PNET and extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma have been shown to possess the same chromosomal translocation, t11; 22, and the same cell surface antigen, P 3032. Separation of this case from extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma was possible because of the absence of PAS positivity, as well as the immunohistochemical positivity for at least two neural markers, as extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma is only positive for neuron specific enolase.
Use of Biplane Grids for On-site Studies of Hurricanes

For the interactive study of a hurricane after its landfall, a fleet of remotely operated, identical vehicles is proposed to be stationed in its path. Each vehicle would support two biplane grids placed parallel to one another. The positions and orientations of the vehicles would be remotely controlled to steer the frontal area of each grid to be nearly perpendicular to the wind’s direction. The paper discusses the expected role of the grids in affecting the mixing of different flow regimes of the hurricane and the decay of its power.
Republished: Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care Expert Consensus Statement: Anesthetic Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke*

Literature on the anesthetic management of endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is limited. Anesthetic management during these procedures is still mostly dependent on individual or institutional preferences. Thus, the Society of Neuroscience in Anesthesiology and Critical Care (SNACC) created a task force to provide expert consensus recommendations on anesthetic management of endovascular treatment of AIS. The task force conducted a systematic literature review (up to August 2012). Because of the limited number of research articles relating to this subject, the task force solicited opinions from experts in this area. The task force created a draft consensus statement based on the available data. Classes of recommendations and levels of evidence were assigned to articles specifically addressing anesthetic management during endovascular treatment of stroke using the standard American Heart Association evidence rating scheme. The draft consensus statement was reviewed by the Task Force, SNACC Executive Committee and representatives of Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery (SNIS) and Neurocritical Care Society (NCS) reaching consensus on the final document. For this consensus statement the anesthetic management of endovascular treatment of AIS was subdivided into 12 topics. Each topic includes a summary of available data followed by recommendations. This consensus statement is intended for use by individuals involved in the care of patients with acute ischemic stroke, such as anesthesiologists, interventional neuroradiologists, neurologists, neurointensivists and neurosurgeons.
The development of gene therapy for the treatment of cancer

Objective The authors sought to develop new treatments for patients with cancer based on the genetic modification of immune lymphocytes and tumor cells designed to increase the host immune reaction against growing cancers. Methods Retroviral-mediated gene transduction was used to introduce genes into tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), and these genetically altered TIL were administered to patients with cancer. Genes coding for cytokines were introduced into tumor cells, and these cells were used to immunize patients against their autologous cancers. Results In initial studies, the gene for neomycin phosphotransferase was introduced into the TIL of ten patients with advanced cancer to study the survival and distribution of TIL in humans
The analysis of eosinophil and lymphocyte phenotype following single dose of high‐dose methylprednisolone in two siblings with marked hypereosinophilia

The effect of single high-dose methylprednisolone (HDMP) on eosinophil and lymphocyte phenotype in two siblings with marked hypereosinophilia was investigated. Since conventional dose steroids failed to produce a haematological and clinical response in case one, both children were given HDMP (20 mg/kg/day). Eosinophils and lymphocytes showed an activated state before treatment, characterized by marked expression of CD11b, CD18, CD45RO on eosinophils and increased HLA-DR, CD95, CD18, CD38 on lymphocytes. Twenty-four hours after administration of HDMP a dramatic reduction in peripheral blood eosinophil count was observed in both patients associated with phenotypic changes characterized by decreased expression of CD11b, CD18, CD13 and increased CD95 expression in one. Furthermore, HDMP treatment induced a drop in the expression of CD95 and CD18 on lymphocytes. These changes may suggest a suppressive role for HDMP on eosinophil and lymphocyte activation which may have contributed to the haematological and clinical response.
Inhibitors of sterol synthesis. Hypocholesterolemic action of dietary 5α-cholest-8(14)-en-3β-ol-15-one in rats and mice

Abstract 5α-Cholest-8(14)-en-3β-ol-15-one, at a level of 0.1% in a low cholesterol diet has been shown to have a profound hypocholesterolemic effect in rats. In one experiment the mean serum cholesterol level (mg per 100 ml ± S.E.M.) decreased from 71.2 ± 0.9 to 36.9 ± 3.3 after 7 days on the diet. In a second experiment the mean serum cholesterol value decreased from 86.4 ± 1.2 to 33.4 ± 3.9 after 8 days on the ketone-containing diet. The effects of the 15-ketosterol on serum cholesterol levels were significantly (p
Using stable and radioactive isotopes to trace atmospherically deposited Pb in montane forest soils.

Atmospheric deposition of lead (Pb) throughout the 1900s resulted in elevated amounts of this toxic metal even in remote forest soils of the northeastern United States. Soils can act as a net sink for metals and thus minimize groundwater and surface water contamination. Recent studies utilizing forest floor temporal data and models of total Pb in precipitation, surface soils, and streams have estimated the time scale of Pb release from soils. However, due to the limited availability and spatial variability of forest floor survey data, other methods for quantifying anthropogenic Pb movement are needed. This study uses the isotopic composition (206Pb/207Pb) of soil Pb and measurements of 210Pb and 226Ra to directly trace the transit of atmospherically deposited Pb in the soil profile. We also report on the recovery of an enriched 207Pb dose applied in 1984 to the surface of a soil plot in the coniferous forest at Camels Hump in Vermont. The isotopic composition of soil Pb in low elevation deciduous forests ...
Transformative Mediation; A New Current in the Mainstream

Robert A. Baruch Bush and Joseph P. Folger, The Promise of Mediation; Responding to Conflict Through Empowerment and Recognition Chris Maser, Resolving Environmental Conflict; Towards Sustainable Community Development
A divergent response of innate regulatory T-cells to sepsis in humans: Circulating invariant natural killer T-cells are preserved

Abstract Background Sepsis is associated with severe immunosuppression, evidenced by loss and dysfunction of CD3 + lymphocytes and γδ-TCR + T-cells. There is limited data addressing changes in the invariant natural killer T-( i NKT) cell population with sepsis, and whether such changes correlate with clinical outcomes. Specifically, septic geriatric patients have marked mortality. How γδ-TCR + T-cells and i NKT-cells are altered in the settings of sepsis and advanced age, and how these changes correlate with mortality are unknown. Methods 49 young (18–50 years) and 55 geriatric (>65 years) ICU patients with confirmed sepsis were enrolled. Blood was stained with antibodies to detect the percentage and absolute number of CD3 + (T-cells), γδ-TCR + T-cell, TCR-Vα-24 + ( i NKT-cells), and CD69 + (marker of cell activation). Blood from 10 healthy controls was also collected. Results Septic patients displayed marked leukocytosis, decreased CD3 + lymphocytes, and γδ-TCR + T-cells, and increased percentage and number of i NKT-cells. Young and geriatric patients had similar degree of leukocytosis, along with percentage, number, and %CD69 + CD3 + T-cell and γδ-TCR + T-cells; however, percentage, number, and %CD69 + i NKT-cells were most markedly elevated in geriatric patients. Geriatric non-survivors had higher percentage and number of, but decreased %CD69 + , i NKT-cells vs survivors. Conclusions i NKT-cells are increased in sepsis, suggesting that they typify an evolving morbid state. This is most pronounced in geriatric non-survivors, a group demonstrating dysfunctional regulatory i NKT-cell phenotype.
Outcomes after laparoscopic surgery in neonates with hypoplastic heart left heart syndrome

Abstract Background/Purpose Laparoscopy has advanced the care of children for a variety of pediatric surgical diseases. However, complication rates for laparoscopic interventions in neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) have not been well described. The purpose of this study is to present the largest reported series of laparoscopic surgery performed in patients with HLHS. Methods We conducted a single-institution, retrospective chart review for all neonates with HLHS who underwent a laparoscopic procedure from September 2002 to March 2005. Data regarding patient characteristics, intraoperative monitoring, previous cardiac surgery, perioperative complications, and postoperative mortality were assessed. Results Twelve patients with HLHS underwent a total of 13 operations during the study period (8 combined Nissen fundoplication and gastrostomy tubes, 3 isolated gastrostomy tubes, 1 Ladd procedure, and 1 combined Nissen fundoplication and gastrocutaneous fistula closure). All cases were completed laparoscopically. Patients had undergone palliative cardiac surgery but were not completely corrected; therefore, they were cyanotic. Perioperative complications were observed in 6 patients (3 gastrostomy tube site infections, 1 small bowel obstruction, 1 postoperative sepsis, and 1 urinary tract infection). There was no mortality in this series. Conclusions From this experience, it appears that laparoscopy can be performed safely and with satisfactory outcomes in patients with HLHS. However, a multidisciplinary approach, including the availability of a skilled and experienced cardiac anesthesia team, is believed to be critical to optimize outcomes in these critically ill children.
Regional Landslide-Hazard Evaluation Using Landslide Slopes, Western Wasatch County, Utah

Landsliding has historically been one of the most damaging geologic hazards in western Wasatch County, Utah. Accordingly, we mapped and analyzed landslides (slumps and debris slides) in the area to provide an empirical basis for regional landslide-hazard evaluation. The 336 landslides in the 250-sq-mi (650-km 2 ) area involve 20 geologic units, including Mississippian- to Quaternary-aged rock and unconsolidated deposits. Landsliding in western Wasatch County is characterized by a strong correlation between geologic material and landslide-slope inclination. From a simple statistical analysis of overall slope inclinations of late Holocene landslides, we determined “critical” slope inclinations above which late Holocene landsliding has typically occurred and used these as the primary basis for defining relative landslide hazard. The critical slopes vary for individual geologic units and range from 15 to 50 percent (9°–27°). The critical slope values and landslide locations were used in conjunction with geologic and slope maps to construct qualitative landslide-susceptibility maps for use by county planners. The maps delineate areas of low, moderate, and high relative hazard and indicate where studies should be completed prior to development to evaluate site-specific slope-stability conditions. Critical slopes as determined in this study provide a consistent empirical reference that is useful for evaluating relative landslide hazard and guiding land-use-planning decisions in large, geologically complex areas.
Effect of increased intraabdominal pressure on lower esophageal sphincter pressure.

This study evaluates the effect of intraabdominal pressure increases on lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure in normal subjects and in patients with reflux esophagitis. Intraabdominal and intragastric pressure were increased by abdominal compression, the Valsalva maneuver, and leg raising. In normal subjects changes in pressure recorded from the LES equaled the changes in gastric pressure induced by abdominal compression and Valsalva. Consequently the LES-gastric pressure gradient remained unchanged. During leg raising, pressure recorded from the LES increased more than gastric pressure, thereby increasing the LES-gastric pressure gradient. Although statistically significant, the LES pressure increases associated with leg raising were modest, unrelated to initial sphincler pressure, and unaffected by atropine. When individuals demonstrating a “common cavity” phenomenon were excluded, LES pressure changes during abdominal compression were similar in patients with esophagitis and in normal volunteers. Consequently, response of the LES to abdominal compression generally does not separate patients with esophagitis from normal subjects. We believe that the LES responses to increased intra-abdominal pressure observed in this study are better accounted for by mechanical factors than by a physiologic adaptive response of intrinsic LES tone.
Diffusion mechanisms relevant to metal crystal growth : Pt/Pt(111)

Abstract We have studied theoretically diffusion processes relevant to metal crystal growth, focusing on the Pt(111) system. Using an EAM-type potential function to describe the atomic interactions, we have determined minimum energy paths and evaluated activation energy barriers for various adatom hop and exchange diffusion mechanisms. We find a surprisingly wide range of activation energies for descent of adatoms from atop islands, with the energy barriers not scaling simply with the energy of the initial and final states. Short and irregular island edges can have an order of magnitude lower descent barriers than long, straight edges, primarily due to the presence of corner atoms. However, heptamers and smaller islands with only corner atoms at the island edge have very high barriers for descent. With this exception, our results support the hypothesis made earlier by Kunkel, Poelsema, Verheij and Comsa [Phys. Rev. Lett. 65 (1990) 733] that small and irregular islands provide lower barriers for adatom descent, which helps explain the observed reentrant layer-by-layer growth. We have also studied the approach of adatoms towards descending and ascending steps and find the adatom is in both cases attracted towards the step edge, resulting in trapping at low temperature.
Human visual motion sensitivity: Evidence against a ratio theory of sensory coding

Luminance thresholds for downward moving contours were measured under several conditions of adaptation. Included was one condition which desensitized visual mechanisms responsive to downward motion. Another condition exerted equal effects on both up- and down-sensitive mechanisms. Thresholds for moving contours were unaffected by exposure to contours which moved in the opposite direction. This indicates that the perception of motion does not depend upon the relative activity in oppositely tuned, directionally selective visual mechanisms.
Theory of the melting transition of synthetic polynucleotides: Evaluation of the stacking free energy

Expressions are derived for the expected form of the helix-coil transitions of certain types of synthetic polynucleotides. The steepness of the transition is related to the “stacking free energy” in the helix; this can be thought of as the free energy gained when base pairs are stacked on each other in the helical configuration. Applying the theory to the results of Inman & Baldwin (1964) on dAT† and mixtures of dC and dI, we estimate the stacking free energy to be about 7 kcal, per mole of base pairs. The stacking free energy must therefore be the source of a major part of the free energy stabilizing the helix.
Effects of grazing on cold desert shrubs: A simulation model based on relative growth rate

Abstract A generalized mathematical model for plant growth was developed to simulate primary productivity and response to grazing of cold desert shrubs. The model simulates root, shoot, and carbohydrate reserve biomass for periods of 5–20 y using a weekly time step and equations based on the principles of growth analysis. The effect of soil water on plant growth is simulated by an empirical relationship between average soil water content and annual production. A separate evaporation model simulates weekly soil water content using precipitation data. The plant model requires weekly average and maximum air temperatures. Other data requirements have been reduced so that the model can be adapted to different species and different sites. The effect of shoot removal on productivity of Atriplex confertifolia, Artemisia tridentata and Ceratoides lanata growing in the Curlew Valley in northern Utah was simulated. When productivity was simulated for 20 y with 25% removal in the spring or 50% removal in the winter, the shrubs were able to maintain themselves. But they were not able to maintain themselves when simulated removal in the spring was 50%. The response to simulated grazing appeared to be consistent with field observations of effects of defoliation on survival.
Toward cleaner production of hydrogen peroxide in China

Abstract Industrial production of hydrogen peroxide by anthraquinone (AO) process in China was briefly introduced. The pathways for cleaner production of hydrogen peroxide were discussed in detail from the viewpoint of process development and design, these included the replacement of Raney-Ni catalyst by highly active and highly selective Pd/Al 2 O 3 catalyst, the reduction of raw materials, steam and power consumption, the usage of high boiling point, low water-soluble and low toxic solvents, the regeneration of degradations, the proper treatment of waste gas, water and solids. Because of these innovations and improvements, the AO process with Pd/Al 2 O 3 catalyst for producing hydrogen peroxide was certified as a cleaner production technology by the Chinese government.
The psychology of the scientist

ion involved: the more powerful the theory the greater the time required to discover its appUcation. However, the prejudices of the pure and applied scientist toward each other may represent necessary occupa tional equipment. If the pure scientist is too much concerned with practice, he will never get his work sufficiently removed from practice to discover anything which may be practiced; and if the appUed scientist is too much concerned with theory his work will fail to be practical also. Both the theorist and the practitioner need the removal of the theorist from the
Three Views of the Pacific Century

During the past decade the extraordinary growth of the East and South east Asian economies, along with the crumbling of Cold War certain ties, has refocused American attention on the Asia-Pacific region. Ever higher numbers of Asian immigrants, tourists, investors, consumer products, not to mention sushi bars and Thai restaurants, have trans formed the "average" American's perception of what is now popu larly called the "Pacific Rim" more rapidly than anyone could have predicted. After all, barely twenty-five years ago the United States remained committed to the containment of "Red China" and the de
Granulomatous interstitial nephritis associated with bone marrow transplantation

We describe two brothers with severe combined immunodeficiency, who presented with systemic granulomatous disease, with granulomatous interstitial nephritis as the main feature, several years following bone marrow transplantation. Neither brother had an apparent drug-induced, infectious disease or autoimmune source for the granulomatous interstitial nephritis. Both patients’ renal function improved following treatment with corticosteroids. This report implicates granulomatous interstitial nephritis as a complication of bone marrow transplantation for severe combined immunodeficiency.
Peer- and self-grading compared to faculty grading

Objectives. To determine the reliability and value of peer- and self -reported evaluations in the grading of pharmacy students.Methods. Mean student peer- and self- reported grades were compared to...
The Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 7 (mGluR7) Allosteric Agonist AMN082 Modulates Nucleus Accumbens GABA and Glutamate, but not Dopamine, in Rats

Abstract The group III metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 (mGluR7) has been implicated in many neurological and psychiatric diseases, including drug addiction. However, it is unclear whether and how mGluR7 modulates nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine (DA), l -glutamate or γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), important neurotransmitters believed to be involved in such neuropsychiatric diseases. In the present study, we found that systemic or intra-NAc administration of the mGluR7 allosteric agonist N,N′-dibenzyhydryl-ethane-1,2-diamine dihydrochloride (AMN082) dose-dependently lowered NAc extracellular GABA and increased extracellular glutamate, but had no effect on extracellular DA levels. Such effects were blocked by (R,S)-α-methylserine-O-phosphate (MSOP), a group III mGluR antagonist. Intra-NAc perfusion of tetrodotoxin (TTX) blocked the AMN082-induced increases in glutamate, but failed to block the AMN082-induced reduction in GABA, suggesting vesicular glutamate and non-vesicular GABA origins for these effects. In addition, blockade of NAc GABAB receptors by 2-hydroxy-saclofen itself elevated NAc extracellular glutamate. Intra-NAc perfusion of 2-hydroxy-saclofen not only abolished the enhanced extracellular glutamate normally produced by AMN082, but also decreased extracellular glutamate in a TTX-resistant manner. We interpret these findings to suggest that the increase in glutamate is secondary to the decrease in GABA, which overcomes mGluR7 activation-induced inhibition of non-vesicular glutamate release. In contrast to its modulatory effect on GABA and glutamate, the mGluR7 receptor does not appear to modulate NAc DA release.
Effects of Dimetridazole and Antibiotics on Growth and Reproduction in Turkeys

Abstract THE efficacy of dimetridazole against histomonosis in turkeys has been amply demonstrated (Lucas, 1961, 1962; and McGuire et al., 1964). The effect of this drug on growth rates of healthy poults and reproduction in turkey breeders has not been extensively investigated. However Condren et al. (1963) and Lucas et al. (1967, 1968) have presented data indicating that the drug is well tolerated by both growing poults and breeder hens and has no adverse effect on reproduction. Because some blackhead preventive drugs are often included in the rations of growing poults, not necessarily infected with blackhead, and because some of these poults are later kept for breeders, it is important that as much as possible be known about the drugs’ effects on healthy poults and also on later reproductive performance. The experiments to be reported were designed to test dimetridazole singly and in conjunction with several commonly used antibiotics in the…
Are Meniscus and Cartilage Injuries Related to Time to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: Functional instability after anterior cruciate ligament injury can be successfully treated with ligament reconstruction. However, the associated meniscus and cartilage lesions often cannot be repaired and may have long-term detrimental effects on knee function.Purpose: The authors used the large database within the Kaiser Permanente Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Registry to evaluate time to surgery, age, and gender as risk factors for meniscus and cartilage injury and associations with meniscus repair rates in patients.Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods: A retrospective review of the Kaiser Permanente Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Registry was performed. The associations between time to surgery, age, and gender with meniscus and cartilage lesions and meniscus repair were analyzed using binary logistic regression modeling to calculate odds ratios (ORs) while adjusting for potential confounding variables.Results: A total of 1252 patients met...
The ins and outs of G protein-coupled receptor trafficking.

Abstract All cells are faced with the complexity of converting a myriad of extracellular stimuli to intracellular signals and appropriate biological responses. This process involves a series of highly orchestrated molecular events, many of which occur at the plasma-membrane interface. Endocytosis is one such event, and functions to transport numerous small molecules and protein cargo. For G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), endocytosis serves as a mechanism to regulate cell-surface-receptor levels, thereby, contributing to the regulation of hormonal responsiveness. The trafficking of GPCRs through the endocytic pathway involves three main steps: recruitment of receptors to discrete endocytic sites, internalization and intracellular sorting. Many recent studies have advanced our understanding of these steps. Novel mechanistic insight into the recruitment of GPCRs to sites of endocytosis has been gained and the discovery of novel protein–protein interactions, which define more clearly the processes of internalization and endocytic sorting, have been characterized. In addition, a role for ubiquitin in internalization and sorting to the degradative pathway has emerged.
Inflammation and anti-inflammatory therapy in chronic prostatitis

Abstract Anti-inflammatory medications have been used for the treatment of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), given that inflammation and pain are traditionally associated with this condition. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) classification divides category III into (1) category IIIA—patients with white blood cells (WBCs) in their expressed prostatic secretions, post–prostate massage urine (voided bladder urine-3 [VB 3 ]) or semen; and (2) category IIIB—those without WBCs. However, recent studies indicate that the ability of WBC count alone to distinguish men with symptoms from those without appears limited. Other markers of inflammation, such as cytokines, may correlate better with clinical findings. The mechanisms of inflammation continue to be investigated, including contributions from reactive oxygen species, autoimmune response, neurogenic inflammation, and even endocrine dysfunction. There have been few controlled studies of anti-inflammatory therapy for chronic prostatitis. In the only randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, the NIH-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (CPSI) total, domain, and pain scores significantly decreased from baseline in all groups, but the difference was not statistically significant. Other medications that have some theoretic anti-inflammatory properties have shown promising early results. Further study of currently available anti-inflammatory medications may be warranted, especially in longer trials, which may allow resolution of the significant placebo effect commonly seen in the short term in men with CPPS. Further discussion is needed to either validate, modify, or abolish the distinction between category IIIA and IIIB in the NIH classification.
Level sets in finite distributive lattices of breadth 3

Abstract A level set in a distributive lattice consists of all elements of a certain fixed rank r. In this note we give a characterization of maximal level sets in distributive lattices of breadth 3. Several applications are given, one of which shows that if a distributive lattice L of breadth 3 is generated by a level set A of maximal cardinality, then A consists of all elements for which the rank is equal 1 2 times the rank of the largest element of L.
Selection of obstetrics and gynecology residents on the basis of medical school performance.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether United States Medical Licensing Examination scores during medical school predict resident-in-training examination scores and whether other criteria of medical student performance correlate with the faculty's subjective evaluation of resident performance. Study Design: United States Medical Licensing Examination step I and II scores for 24 residents were compared to their scores on in-training examinations. Faculty evaluated 20 graduated residents by rating both their cognitive and noncognitive clinical performance. Scores from these evaluations were compared with several criteria of their medical school performance. Statistical analysis for all comparisons was linear regression. Results: United States Medical Licensing Examination scores positively correlated with in-training examination scores. United States Medical Licensing Examination scores, honor grades in student clinical rotations, and student interview scores did not correlate with the faculty evaluation of resident performance. Conclusion: Standardized tests of medical student cognitive function predict the resident's performance on standardized tests. Selection criteria that are based on other medical school achievements do not necessarily correlate with overall performance as residents in obstetrics and gynecology. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1091-4.)
Studies on carbohydrate localization in human γM-globulin

Abstract Human γM globulin contains at least three chemically distinct carbohydrate groups. Two are on the heavy chain and one is on the light chain. To further localize the heavy chain carbohydrate groups, the heavy chain was fractionated by CNBr. The two carbohydrate moeties were found on separate CNBr fragments. One fragment, which contained the largest carbohydrate subunit, contained 84 residuesincluding the H-L disulfide bond. This was determined by selectively labeling this bond with 14C-iodoacetamide. This carbohydrate also was probably located in the Fc portion, which makes the Fc of macroglobulin approximately 25 per cent carbohydrate. The other carbohydrate group was found on a large CNB fragment which contained 148 residues. This fragment is probably in the Fd portion of the heavy chain.
Spatially averaged quantum inequalities do not exist in four-dimensional spacetime

We construct a particular class of quantum states for a massless, minimally coupled free scalar field which are of the form of a superposition of the vacuum and multi-mode two-particle states. These states can exhibit local negative energy densities. Furthermore, they can produce an arbitrarily large amount of negative energy in a given region of space at a fixed time. This class of states thus provides an explicit counterexample to the existence of a spatially averaged quantum inequality in four-dimensional spacetime.
Mammals on mountainsides : elevational patterns of diversity

The four major papers in this special feature present and interpret data from field studies on the distributions and diversity of small mam? mals in elevational gradients on mountains in the Philippines, Borneo, southern Mexico and west? ern United States. In the introductory paper, Lomolino places these studies in the context of historical, methodological and conceptual themes in contemporary biogeography. In this final paper, I focus on some important similarities and interest? ing differences among the four case studies. All of the studies provide evidence for the influence of ecological factors, such as climate, productivity and habitat heterogeneity, on mammalian diversity. All also provide evidence for the influence of historical dispersal, extinction, and speciation events. Perhaps the most interesting result is the documentation of a frequent, but not universal, peak in species diversity at some elevation intermediate between the base and peak of a mountain. Efforts to understand the mechanistic basis for this pattern ? and why it differs from the continuous decrease in diversity from the equator to the poles ? promise to contribute to developing a general theoretical explanation for the major patterns of biodiversity on earth.
Periodic traveling waves in SIRS endemic models

Mathematical models are used to determine if infection wave fronts could occur by traveling geographically in a loop around a region or continent. These infection wave fronts arise by Hopf bifurcation for some spatial models for infectious disease transmission with distributed-contacts. Periodic traveling waves are shown to exist for the spatial analog of the SIRS endemic model, in which the temporary immunity is described by a delay, but they do not exist in a similar spatial SIRS endemic model without a delay. Specifically, we found that the ratio of the delay @w in the recovered class and the average infectious period 1/@c must be sufficiently large for Hopf bifurcation to occur.
Computerized Image Dynamics Analysis

A significant factor in the design of space and aircraft borne optical imaging systems is the image-object dynamic relationship. Image motions arise from two basic causes: apparent ground motion and camera rotation. Compensation for the effect of these motions is accomplished by controlled camera and optical rotations and image plane translations. System configuration choices and design optimizations are strongly influenced by image motion compensation requirements and implementation.© (1970) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Development and Manifestation of Altruistic Caring: A Qualitative Inquiry

Qualitative, phenomenological research provides rich information about the constructive, life span perspectives of the manifestation and development of altruism. Using an interpretive phenomenological approach, this study investigated altruism as described by 34 older persons in a continuing care retirement community. The findings identified 13 overarching, common, emergent themes related to this construct. Implications are provided for helping professionals.
Is There a Critical Period for Semantics

This article reviews recent research on the second language acquisition of meaning with a view of establishing whether there is a critical period for the acquisition of compositional semantics. It is claimed that the functional lexicon presents the most formidable challenge, while syntax and phrasal semantics pose less difficulty to learners. Findings from the neurofunctional imaging (PET, fMRI) and electrophysiology (ERPs) of L2 comprehension are reviewed and critically examined. Since it is argued that experimental tasks suggesting differential acquisition of L2 syntax and semantics are in need of linguistic refinement, further evidence is marshalled from behavioural studies of L2 acquisition of semantics to fill in the current gap in L2 comprehension modelling. The 15 studies reviewed here point to no apparent barrier to ultimate success in the acquisition of phrasal semantics.