cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sevoflurane preconditioning attenuates the fall in adenosine triphosphate levels, but does not alter the changes in sodium and potassium levels during hypoxia in rat hippocampal slices.

BACKGROUND Sevoflurane preconditioning improves recovery after hypoxia. Sevoflurane administered before and during hypoxia improved recovery and attenuated the changes in intracellular sodium, potassium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels during hypoxia. In this study, the authors examine the effects of sevoflurane applied only before hypoxia on sodium, potassium, and ATP. METHODS Hippocampal slices from adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated with 4% sevoflurane, washed, and then subjected to hypoxia (n≥8 animals/group). The cornus ammonis 1 regions of the hippocampal slices were micro-dissected and sodium, potassium, and ATP concentrations measured. RESULTS Pretreatment with sevoflurane for 15 or 60 min did not attenuate the increase in intracellular sodium or the decrease in intracellular potassium during hypoxia. After 60 min of preconditioning and 5 min of hypoxia, sodium increased 57% (vs. nonpreconditioned hypoxia 54% increase) and potassium decreased 31% (vs. 26%). These changes were not statistically significant versus untreated hypoxia. The 60-min sevoflurane preconditioning group had statistically significant higher ATP levels at 5 min of hypoxia (3.8 nmol/mg dry wt.) when compared to untreated hypoxic tissue (2.1 nmol/mg). There was no significant difference in ATP levels between the sevoflurane preconditioned and the untreated tissue before hypoxia (8.9 vs. 8.5 nmoles/mg, respectively). CONCLUSION Preconditioning with sevoflurane for 60 min before hypoxia does not alter changes in intracellular sodium and potassium during hypoxia but does attenuate the fall in intracellular ATP levels during hypoxia. Thus, there are differences between anesthetic preconditioning and when anesthetics are present before and during hypoxia.
The use of a clock reaction to measure the porosity of coatings on iron

Methode basee sur la mesure du temps au bout duquel apparait une coloration bleue due a une reaction catalysee par les ions Fe(II), la diminution de duree de cette reaction etant proportionnelle a la quantite de fer en contact avec les reactifs, c'est-a-dire a la porosite du revetement
Structural Influences on Activism and Crime: Identifying the Social Structure of Discontent

By applying and extending the logic of Peter Blau's theory of social structure, this article identifies structural features of U.S. counties that are associated with high levels of crime, the presence of activist organizations as ideologically diverse as civil rights organizations and antiabortion groups, and low levels of voter turnout. Key empirical findings include positive effects of ethnic heterogeneity, religious heterogeneity, and income inequality on both the crime rate and the number of activist organizations in counties. Educational inequality diminishes the positive effect of income inequality on activism and has a strong negative effect on the crime rate. Many structural conditions associated with high numbers of activist organizations and a high crime rate decrease voter turnout rates.
High-Cycle Fatigue of Nickel-Based Superalloy ME3 at Ambient and Elevated Temperatures: Role of Grain-Boundary Engineering

High-cycle fatigue (HCF), involving the premature initiation and/or rapid propagation of cracks to failure due to high-frequency cyclic loading, remains a principal cause of failures in gas-turbine propulsion systems. In this work, we explore the feasibility of using “grain-boundary engineering” as a means to enhance the microstructural resistance to HCF. Specifically, sequential thermomechanical processing, involving alternate cycles of strain and annealing, was used to increase the fraction of “special” grain boundaries and to break up the interconnected network of “random” boundaries, in a commercial polycrystalline Ni-based superalloy (ME3). The effect of such grain-boundary engineering on the fatigue-crack-propagation behavior of large (∼8 to 20 mm), through-thickness cracks at 25 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C was examined. Although there was little influence of an increased special boundary fraction at ambient temperatures, the resistance to near-threshold crack growth was definitively improved at elevated temperatures, with fatigue threshold stress intensities some 10 to 20 pct higher than at 25 °C, concomitant with a lower proportion (∼20 pct) of intergranular cracking.
EQUATION OF STATE OF METALS FROM SHOCK WAVE MEASUREMENTS

Shock wave pressure magnitudes from about 150 to 500 kilobars have been attained for metals by using high explosives. A photographic technique for the nearly simultaneous determination of shock and free surface velocities is presented, and measurements for aluminum, copper, and zinc are given.
Hyaluronidase activity of macaque sperm assessed by an in vitro cumulus penetration assay.

A model system consisting of cynomolgus macaque sperm and ovulated hamster ova-cumulus complexes (OCCs) was utilized to study the role of the sperm protein PH-20 in cumulus penetration. The hyaluronidase activity of solubilized macaque sperm PH-20 was evaluated using an ELISA-like microplate assay prior to and following the addition of the hyaluronidase inhibitors heparin (0-100 microg/ml) and apigenin (250 microM), as well as the Ig fraction of a polyclonal antibody raised against purified recombinant macaque PH-20 (R10; 10-400 microg/ml). Sperm motility following exposure to enzyme inhibitors was evaluated using computer-aided sperm motility analysis. Macaque sperm were labeled with the permeant fluorescent nuclear dye, Hoechst 33342, and were coincubated with ovulated hamster OCCs for 30 min at 37 degrees C. The addition of heparin, apigenin, or R10 antibody to solubilized sperm extracts resulted in a linear dose-dependent decrease in hyaluronidase activity (P < .01). In the heterologous cumulus penetration assay, fluorescently labeled macaque sperm that were pretreated with heparin (1-100 microg/ml), apigenin (250 microM), or R10 antibody (Ig fraction, 10-400 microg/ml) demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in the ability to penetrate hamster OCCs (P < 0.01), in the absence of effects on sperm motility. In the homologous assay, experiments using macaque OCCs and fluorescently labeled macaque sperm confirmed that the same concentrations of heparin and R10 antibody similarly suppressed spermatozoal cumulus penetration (P < .01). These results suggest that macaque sperm PH-20-derived hyaluronidase participates in cumulus penetration in this species, and that this model system is useful for further studies into primate gamete interaction.
Towards automatic security management: a model-based approach

This paper introduces a security management approach that integrates system monitoring, intrusion detection, and automatic control in order to detect, classify and protect against security attacks automatically. The model-based controller computes the most effective control action to protect the system based on the system measurements, the current and the expect level of future system utilization. In this paper, we implemented the security management framework on a multi-tier enterprise system comprising a set of routers, front virtual machines and hosts and test it with respect to various forms of denial of service attacks (DoS). Throughout the experiment, the security management approach correctly detects and protects the system from these attacks. The paper presents the simulation results and discusses possible extensions of the proposed structure for other forms of DoS and network attacks.
Integrating the management of patient three-dimensional treatment planning and image data

The management of data for three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D CRT) is a multifaceted enterprise that includes image data transfer and format conversion, the safeguarding and distribution of treatment planning data, and the construction of efficient and secure user environments. Because 3D radiation therapy is so closely tied to computational methods for processing and presenting images, attention to these issues is essential for developing practical systems for 3D CRT.
Independent dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate stimulation of human chorionic gonadotropin and estrogen secretion by malignant trophoblast cells in vitro.

ABSTRACT Human malignant trophoblast cells in continuous culture were employed to investigate the causal relationship between N6,O2′-dibutyryl cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphoric acid. (dbcAMP) stimulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secretion and dbcAMP stimulation of estrone and 17β-estradiol (E) secretion. The cells secreted up to 25 times more hCG when propagated in medium containing 10% serum, compared to growth in the absence of serum. By contrast, serum had little effect on E secretion. In the presence of serum, dbcAMP resulted in marked stimulation of hCG and E secretion; both processes were potentiated by theophylline. When cells were incubated with various concentrations of dbcAMP or theophylline, stimulation of hCG secretion was disproportionately greater than the stimulation of E secretion. Furthermore, the relative stimulation of secretion of the two hormones was not constant. The rate of hCG, but not of E, secretion was elevated for at least 2 days following a 7-hr pulse with dbc...
GANGS, GUNS, AND DRUGS: RECIDIVISM AMONG SERIOUS, YOUNG OFFENDERS*

Research Summary: The primary goal of this study is to understand the factors that best explain recidivism among a sample of 322 young men aged 17 to 24 years released from prison in a Midwestern state. Specific attention is paid to the predictive validity of gang membership, gun use, and drug dependence on the timing of reconviction and the current research on desistance frames the analyses. Results from a series of proportional hazard models indicate that race, gang membership, drug dependence, and institutional behavior are critical factors in predicting the timing of reconviction. Contrary to expectations, gun use was not related to postrelease involvement in the criminal justice system. Policy Implications: Much of current violence policy has focused on the identification and enhanced prosecution of individuals deemed to be serious and chronic offenders; particular emphasis has been placed on gun offenders. The findings presented here indicate that preprison weapon involvement is not significantly associated with recidivism, likely because gun use is prevalent among young, serious offenders. Although policies aimed at the incapacitation of young, violent offenders may reduce community levels of crime in the short term, the chances for recidivism are likely to increase in the long term if factors like gang membership and drug use, and the deficits that these behaviors engender for social and emotional capital, are not addressed. More broadly, the strong, significant effect of the institutional misconduct measure signals the salience of accounting for institutional behavior when making release decisions. Institutional misconduct may be an important marker of sustained gang membership, making institutional programming and appropriate aftercare services a priority for this group of offenders.
Optical Management in Strabismus: Simple, Advanced, and Unconventional Techniques

The relationship between prisms and lenses can be an asset in the management of strabismus. Relief from diplopia in incomitant strabismus is challenging and may be complicated by large refractive errors or ill-fitting spectacles. Practical optical techniques include crossing and splitting incorporated prisms, using slab-off lenses or oblique prisms, and combining contact lenses with a spectacle correction or prisms. Spectacle frame selection and fit may induce an ocular deviation or influence an existing one. Selecting an appropriate frame, particularly if prisms will be incorporated, contributes to binocular comfort.
Permeation of protons, potassium ions, and small polar molecules through phospholipid bilayers as a function of membrane thickness

Two mechanisms have been proposed to account for solute permeation of lipid bilayers. Partitioning into the hydrophobic phase of the bilayer, followed by diffusion, is accepted by many for the permeation of water and other small neutral solutes, but transient pores have also been proposed to account for both water and ionic solute permeation. These two mechanisms make distinctively different predictions about the permeability coefficient as a function of bilayer thickness. Whereas the solubility-diffusion mechanism predicts only a modest variation related to bilayer thickness, the pore model predicts an exponential relationship. To test these models, we measured the permeability of phospholipid bilayers to protons, potassium ions, water, urea, and glycerol. Bilayers were prepared as liposomes, and thickness was varied systematically by using unsaturated lipids with chain lengths ranging from 14 to 24 carbon atoms. The permeability coefficient of water and neutral polar solutes displayed a modest dependence on bilayer thickness, with an approximately linear fivefold decrease as the carbon number varied from 14 to 24 atoms. In contrast, the permeability to protons and potassium ions decreased sharply by two orders of magnitude between 14 and 18 carbon atoms, and leveled off, when the chain length was further extended to 24 carbon atoms. The results for water and the neutral permeating solutes are best explained by the solubility-diffusion mechanism. The results for protons and potassium ions in shorter-chain lipids are consistent with the transient pore model, but better fit the theoretical line predicted by the solubility-diffusion model at longer chain lengths.
Nonrefractory Slurries in the ICP: Size Control and Recovery

Direct injection of slurries into plasmas for elemental analysis is a means by which sample preparation effort and time are minimized. Sample slurries must meet certain criteria if solutions are to be used for calibration. First, the analyte from the sample slurry must be physically transported into the plasma with the same efficiency as is the analyte from the calibrating solutions. Generally, this means that a slurry particle must be smaller than the droplet that transports it. Although there is some disagreement with respect to the maximum particle size that can be transported into the plasma, it is generally agreed that particles less than about 10 μm in diameter will be transported with virtually 100% efficiency.
Solar array string characteristics in strange places

Solar cell string characteristics are well documented when operating in the fourth quadrant of the characteristic curve under illumination (insolation). However, there is little consolidated documentation on the characteristics of strings/arrays operating under shadow or short circuit conditions. These conditions cause operation in the first or third quadrants of the device characteristic curve. This paper attempts to regress this long-standing injustice. The subject matter is addressed in the following order: (1) a description of the device behavior in each quadrant; (2) a discussion of the conditions which cause the device to operate in quadrants I and III; (3) a discussion of the impacts to the system resulting from operation under these conditions; and (4) discussion of the resulting design implications.
Inferior Vena Cava Stenting: A Safe and Effective Treatment for Intractable Ascites in Patients with Polycystic Liver Disease

We performed a retrospective study of seven patients with polycystic liver disease who underwent stenting of the inferior vena cava for intractable ascites. All patients had symptomatic ascites and inferior vena cava stenosis demonstrable by venography. The mean pressure gradient across the inferior vena cava stenosis before stenting was 14.5 mm Hg (range 6-25 mm Hg) and significantly decreased to a mean pressure gradient of 2.8 mm Hg (range 0-6 mm Hg, p = 0.008) after stenting. Two patients also had stenting of hepatic venous stenoses after unsuccessful inferior vena cava stenting. After a mean follow-up of 12.2 months (range 0.5-39.1 months), five of the seven patients have had maintained clinical improvement, defined as decreased symptoms, diuretic requirements, and frequency of paracentesis. Four patients have required no further intervention. The other patient was lost in follow-up. Patients with clinical improvement had an overall larger mean pressure gradient before stenting (19.2 vs. 9.8 mm Hg) and a larger Delta pressure gradient (15.8 vs. 7.8 mm Hg) compared to those in whom stenting was unsuccessful. These results suggest inferior vena cava stenting is safe and effective and should be considered as a first-line intervention in the treatment of medically intractable ascites in select patients with polycystic liver disease.
Apparent superconducting energy gap in lead from ultrasonic measurements

The apparent superconducting energy gap in lead was obtained from ultrasonic measurements in the range of $\mathrm{kl}\ensuremath{\le}1$. The gap parameter is about $5.0{k}_{b}{T}_{c}$ and is approximately frequency-independent over the range from 50 to 1050 Mc/sec.
What is dynamic programming

Sequence alignment methods often use something called a 'dynamic programming' algorithm. What is dynamic programming and how does it work?
Comments on the spontaneous strain and polarization of polycrystalline ferroelectric ceramics

A framework to calculate the spontaneous strain and polarization of a polycrystalline ferroelectric is presented, and various applications are discussed.
Efficient radiometrically accurate synthetic representation of IR scenes

A technique is developed for synthesizing a high spectral resolution IR ship signature image, for use in an imaging IR Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM) model, from an IR scene database provided by the ship signature model NTCS/ShipIR. This synthesized IR ship image is generated for use over ranges representative of an ASCM engagement. The technique presented focuses on the application of in-band averaged transmittance to the source ship signature as a means of reducing the spectral calculations required by the cruise missile model. In order to achieve this reduction in computation, while preserving the fidelity of the apparent ship signature, the idea of sub-banding is introduced. Sub-banding describes the manner in which the IR band is partitioned into smaller bandwidths, such that the error produced in the ship's average contrast radiance due to the use of in-band averaged transmittance is minimized over range. The difference between the average contrast radiance of an IR ship image generated using in-band averaging and the average contrast radiance of a spectrally generated IR ship image is the metric for this minimization. This choice is based on measured data collected from the recent NATO SIMVEX trial, which used high quality IR measurements of the CFAV Quest in an effort to refine the NTCS/ShipIR model. The technique is general and applicable to any band(s) of interest. Results are presented which verify that the use of in-band averaged transmittance over an IR band (3.5-5.0 μm), partitioned using three optimal sub-bands, produces an IR ship image with an average contrast radiance within the desired error bar of a spectrally generated ship image's average contrast radiance.
Augmentation and Combination Strategies in Resistant Depression

A minority of patients with depression achieves remission with first-line antidepressant treatment; consequently, a second medication is often added to enhance the effects of the initial agent. The second medication may or may not be another antidepressant. Clinical trials have assessed the efficacy of many agents commonly used for augmentation or combination therapy, but well-designed, large trials with a clear definition of treatment resistance are needed.
Phototube testing for CDF

Abstract Photomultiplier tubes for the Collider Detector at Fermilab were subjected to preinstallation testing for stability, linearity and other properties. An apparatus is described which provided computer control of light sources, monitoring of environmental conditions and data logging of responses from up to 48 photomultipliers simultaneously. Statistical summaries of the test results are included for 1041 tubes for the central electromagnetic calorimeter and 687 tubes for the endwall hadron calorimeter.
Transient surfactant protein B deficiency in a term infant with severe respiratory failure

A 38-day-old male infant with persistent pulmonary hypertension and respiratory failure since birth was found to have a complete absence of surfactant protein B (SP-B) along with an aberrant form of SP-C in his tracheal aspirate fluid, findings consistent with the diagnosis of hereditary SP-B deficiency. Surprisingly, SP-B and SP-B messenger ribonucleic acid were present in lung biopsy tissue. However, DNA sequence analysis demonstrated a point mutation in exon 5 of one of the SP-B gene alleles. The infant's mother was found to be a carrier of this mutation. The infant's other SP-B allele did not differ from the published DNA sequence for the SP-B gene. We conclude that this patient had a transient deficiency of SP-B, in contrast to that of previously described infants with irreversible respiratory failure caused by hereditary SP-B deficiency. We recommend that infants with suspected SP-B deficiency have serial analysis of tracheal fluid samples for both SP-B and SP-C before lung biopsy, along with genetic analysis for the known SP-B mutations. We speculate that the new mutation found in one of this patient's SP-B genes was in part responsible for the transient deficiency of SP-B.
Comparative bioethics in bipolar and epilepsy research

Conclusions: The FDA initially requires add-on studies with new AEDs due to the risk of seizures during the placebo phase. The author argues that bipolar research warrants similar add-on studies to prove efficacy because the risk of suicide and increased long-term morbidity in the bipolar population is as significant as the risk of seizures in the epilepsy population. Although the number of patients needed to prove statistical efficacy would increase, the safety of such research would also markedly increase. The author further concludes that with the risk of suicide during bipolar research, ethical considerations require increased frequency of patient contact with a significant other co-signing the informed consent for research and serving as a contact for the coordinator. c 2001 BEA Trading Ltd
Preantral intra-ovarian oocyte release in the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus

Adult white-footed mice, Peromyscus leucopus, were kept either in long photoperiod (LP; LD 16:8) or in short photoperiod (SP; LD 8∶16) for six weeks. Ovaries were serially sectioned and examined histologically. Preantral follicles were observed to release their oocyte into the ovarian stroma. This phenomenon is termed “preantral intra-ovarian oocyte release (PIOR)”. The first step in PIOR appeared to be the interruption of the basal membrane and the thecal layer. PIOR was considered incomplete when the oocyte was retained in the follicular compartment. PIOR was complete when granulosa cells were seen to be herniated and the oocyte released either into the interstitial cortical tissue or into a corpus luteum. During incomplete PIOR signs of atresia were increased, whereas during complete PIOR they were decreased. Resumption of meiosis was not seen. PIOR was observed in 19.5 % of the ovaries after LP and in 18.8 % of the ovaries after SP. PIOR is regarded as a sign of follicular atresia.
Punishment in the goldfish as a function of electrode orientation

For each response to a nipple from which they were trained to take liquid food, goldfish were punished with a brief ac shock administered through a pair of stainless steel electrodes placed either to the right and left of the animal, over and under it, or in front and back of it. As anticipated, on the assumption that the aversiveness of shock is a function of the potential difference across the animal's body, the right-left orientation of the electrodes was found to produce the least suppression of feeding and the front-back orientation the most.
A perspective on judgment and choice: Mapping bounded rationality.

Early studies of intuitive judgment and decision making conducted with the late Amos Tversky are reviewed in the context of two related concepts: an analysis of accessibility, the ease with which thoughts come to mind; a distinction between effortless intuition and deliberate reasoning. Intuitive thoughts, like percepts, are highly accessible. Determinants and consequences of accessibility help explain the central results of prospect theory, framing effects, the heuristic process of attribute substitution, and the characteristic biases that result from the substitution of nonextensional for extensional attributes. Variations in the accessibility of rules explain the occasional corrections of intuitive judgments. The study of biases is compatible with a view of intuitive thinking and decision making as generally skilled and successful.
Real-Time Detection of Colour and Surface Defects of Maize Kernels Using Machine Vision

Abstract Real-time feature extraction algorithms were developed using a Matrox IM-1280 real-time image processing board and an Image-RTP real-time processor. On-board hardware operations and parallel statistical look-up table (LUT) mapping were used for high-speed feature extraction. Algorithms were developed to acquire and process geometric features for an artificial intelligence-based automated on-line maize quality inspection system. Maize quality-related features included average colour in red, green, and blue (RGB) and hue, saturation, and intensity (HSI) colour discriminations for specific regions of kernels. Maize quality-related features also included a Fourier profile shape descriptor, which distinguished between shapes of whole and broken kernels. Primitive features can be extracted in a processing time of less than 1 s for one object. With increasing numbers of objects, the processing time needed decreased to 2 s for 12 objects. With proper calibration, primitive feature measurements are faster and can be more accurate than measurements determined by a micrometer. For the RGB colour discrimination, the blue component provides the most separation between the white and yellow maize kernels. The green component provides some separation and the red component provides the least separation between white and yellow maize kernels. For the HSI colour discrimination, the best separation between the white and the yellow maize varieties is provided by the hue component. The processing time was about 1·3 s. Based on the Fourier profile descriptor, the breakage classifier had an accuracy of 95% in classifying whole kernels as whole and 96% in classifying broken kernels as broken. The processing time of the breakage inspection programme was about 1·5 s.
Aspirin-Induced Hepatic Injury

Excerpt Old drugs are like old friends. One knows their faults and potential for creating problems. The incidence and gravity of adverse effects of pharmacologic old friends can be weighed against ...
Activation of caudal brainstem cell groups during the exercise pressor reflex in the cat as elucidated by 2-[14C]deoxyglucose

Cell groups of the caudal brainstem were labeled with 2-[14C]deoxyglucose during the pressor response evoked by contraction of hindlimb muscles (exercise pressor reflex). The nuclear groups which were labeled in excess of control levels included: the lateral reticular nucleus, the inferior olive (medial accessory olive), and the lateral tegmental field (adjacent to the lateral reticular nucleus).
Amplitude-independent chaotic synchronization and communication

One problem with using chaotic synchronization to communicate is that the response system is nonlinear, so that any variation in the amplitude of the chaotic driving signal degrades synchronization of the response system to the drive system. In this work it is shown that it is possible to design a response system that reproduces a scaled version of the chaotic driving signal when the drive signal is attenuated or amplified. A simple communications system is demonstrated to show that this type of synchronization is useful, and the effects of noise on the communications system are studied.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Superfluid turbulence in converging and diverging rectangular channels

We have extended the earlier work of Kafkalidis, Klinich, and Tough (KKT) on the effect of nonuniform flow on superfluid turbulence. The same high aspect ratio rectangular cross section flow channel is used as before, but now reversed to produce converging flow. Temperature difference data are obtained as a function of heat current for eight different positions along the channel, at four bath temperatures. After all of the data had been obtained, the channel was removed from the apparatus and cut into sections so that the actual geometry could be determined. Although designed to have a uniform height, it was found that the channel actually had a substantial height variation along its length. Incorporating this new information, we are able to show that the Schwarz theory of homogeneous turbulence in uniform flow can be simply extended to fit the weakly nonuniform flow in our channel. Data from both converging and diverging flow agree with calculations based upon the Schwarz theory applied locally but using a slightly modified value of the vortex line parameterc L . The correction toc L is about 10% independent of temperature and independent of flow direction.
Lactation Studies. II. Comparison of Techniques to Measure True Milk and Fat Secretion Rates in Dairy Cattle as Applied to Between-Milking Intervals of Various Lengths of Time,

Summary Twenty cows were used over a 2-yr. period to compare three techniques of measuring rates of milk and fat secretion. Apparent secretion rates (pounds of milk obtained at normal milking times divided by hours in the between-milking intervals to get pounds per hour) were compared to true secretion rates which where determined by two methods, using oxytocin to obtain complementary milk. Oxytocin was used at four consecutive milkings and at four milkings spaced so as to effect recovery between injections. Three milkings schedules were employed, i.e., (10–14), (11–13), and (12-12). Actual secretion rates were computed and these also were converted to relative rates which expressed the relation between day-time and night-time secretion rates. The true secretion rate measurement which was most consistent was the one in which oxytocin was injected at consecutive milkings. It was necessary to consider differences in complementary milk left in the udder after milkings, even when a 12-12 hr. milking schedule was used, in order to measure true secretion rates. True secretion rates of milk and fat on a within-interval basis were increased significantly by decreasing the between-milking interval by 4 hr. relative to the other interval in the same day (14 and 30% higher for milk and fat, respectively). The milk and fat secretion rates were higher by 5 and 10%, respectively, during the 11-hr. intervals, as compared to the 13-hr. intervals, but were not statistically different. It was not possible to ascertain whether the 24-hr. rate was affected by changes in milking schedule, because schedule and lactation trend effects were confounded.
A combination neutron and gamma ray spectrometer

Abstract An instrument has been developed to measure neutron and gamma ray spectra simultaneously in a mixed radiation field. The method utilizes a single stilbene scintillation crystal with a pulse-shape discrimination cricuit. The system routes pulses due to electrons to one output and those due to protons to another output. The spectra are then independently accumulated and analyzed. The response of the spectrometer to neutrons and gamma rays is included. The gamma ray efficiency of the stilbene crystal (1 1 2 o dia. × 1 1 2 o high ) varied from approximately 20% at 1 MeV down to 7% at 10 MeV (counts per incident particle). The gamma ray resolution of the complete spectrometer system, including unfolding, is 31% at 0.322 MeV and 14% at 1.84 MeV. The neutron efficiency of the crystal varied from approximately 48% at 1 MeV down to 13% at 10 MeV (counts per incident particle). The neutron resolution of the spectrometer is 17.4% at 2.0 MeV and 5.2% at 15.5 MeV. Measured neutron and gamma ray spectra from a PuBe neutron source are presented. The total neutron output of the source, measured by the National Bureau of Standards, is 1.00 × 107 n/sec. The output measured with the stilbene spectrometer is 1.09 × 107 n/sec. The agreement is within 10%.
Inhibition of the 17β-estradiol-induced and constitutive expression of the cellular protooncogene c-fos by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in the female rat uterus

Abstract Acute administration of 17β-estradiol (5 μg/rat) to 25-day-old female Sprague-Dawley rats resulted in an increase of uterine mRNA for the cellular oncogene c- fos . The c- fos mRNA levels were significantly elevated 12 and 24 h after exposure to the hormone (232 and 164% of control values) and the elevation was not observed after 48 h. In contrast, treatment of the animals with either 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD) or 6-methyl-1,3,8-trichlorodibenzofuran (MCDF) resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in constitutive uterine c- fos mRNA levels. In rats co-treated with 17β-estradiol plus TCDD or MCDF, it was apparent from the results that the halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons significantly inhibited the estrogen-induced increases in uterine c- fos mRNA levels. These observations further extend the diverse spectrum of antiestrogenic effects caused by TCDD and related compounds and also show an interaction between TCDD and the constitutive expression of the c- fos protooncogene in the female rat uterus.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Lipopolysaccharide in Escherichia coli PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF HEPTOSYLTRANSFERASE I

Heptosyltransferase I, encoded by the rfaC(waaC) gene of Escherichia coli, is thought to add L-glycero-D-manno-heptose to the inner 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonic acid (Kdo) residue of the lipopolysaccharide core. Lipopolysaccharide isolated from mutants defective in rfaC lack heptose and all other sugars distal to heptose. The putative donor, ADP-L-glycero-D-manno-heptose, has never been fully characterized and is not readily available. In cell extracts, the analog ADP-mannose can serve as an alternative donor for RfaC-catalyzed glycosylation of the acceptor, Kdo2-lipid IVA. Using a T7 promoter construct that overexpresses RfaC approximately 15,000-fold, the enzyme has been purified to near homogeneity. NH2-terminal sequencing confirms that the purified enzyme is the rfaC gene product. The subunit molecular mass is 36 kDa. Enzymatic activity is dependent upon the presence of Triton X-100 and is maximal at pH 7.5. The apparent Km (determined at near saturating concentrations of the second substrate) is 1.5 mM for ADP-mannose and 4.5 microM for Kdo2-lipid IVA. Chemical hydrolysis of the RfaC reaction product at 100 degrees C in the presence of sodium acetate and 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate generates fragments consistent with the inner Kdo residue of Kdo2-lipid IVA as the site of mannosylation. The analog, Kdo-lipid IVA, functions as an acceptor, but is mannosylated at less than 1% the rate of Kdo2-lipid IVA. The purified enzyme displays no activity with ADP-glucose, GDP-mannose, UDP-glucose, or UDP-galactose. Mannosylation of Kdo2-lipid IVA catalyzed by RfaC proceeds in high yield and may be useful for the synthesis of lipopolysaccharide analogs. Pure RfaC can also be used together with Kdo2-[4'-32P]lipid IVA to assay for the physiological donor (presumably ADP-L-glycero-D-manno-heptose) in a crude, low molecular weight fraction isolated from wild type cells.
In situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of Al2O3/GaSb interface evolution

Abstract GaSb(0 0 1) was treated with (NH 4 ) 2 S x and the evolution of the interfacial chemistry was investigated, in situ , with monochromatic X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), following heat treatment and exposure to trimethylaluminum (TMA) and deionized water (DIW) in an atomic layer deposition reactor. Elemental Sb (Sb–Sb bonding) as well as Sb 3+ and Sb 5+ chemical states were initially observed at the native oxide/GaSb interface, yet these diminished below the XPS detection limit after heating to 300 °C. No evidence of Ga–Ga bonding was observed whereas the Ga 1+ /Ga–S chemical state was robust and persisted after heat treatment and exposure to TMA/DIW at 300 °C.
Bilinear optimal control of a Kirchhoff plate

Abstract We consider the problem of optimal control of a Kirchhoff plate. A bilinear control is used as a force to make the plate close to a desired profile taking into the account, a quadratic cost of control. We prove the existence of an optimal control and characterize it uniquely through the solution of an optimality system.
Post-operative Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Complications Following Colorectal Surgery

Abstract Introduction The neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) correlates with serial organ dysfunction scores in colorectal surgical patients in critical care units. We hypothesised that the NLR on the first day after an elective colorectal resection would identify patients at increased risk of subsequent complications. Methods With Ethics Committee approval, 100 patients were recruited to a prospective cohort study. Pre-operative test results and the full blood count on the first post-operative day were noted for all patients. The development of any pre-defined post-operative complications was recorded. Results Elective colorectal resection was associated with an increase in mean NLR from 3.5 to 11.6 ( p Conclusion NLR ≥9.3 on the first post-operative day is associated with an increased risk of complications. This simple derivation of routinely available data helps to identify patients at high-risk of complications, allowing targeted preventive measures.
Genetic alterations in uveal melanoma

Melanoma arising in the uveal tract (choroid, ciliary body and iris) is the most common intraocular malignant tumor [1]. The incidence of uveal melanoma (UM) in the US population is approximately f...
Chemistry of NO2 and SO2 on Ice Layers and H2O/Zn Interfaces: Photoemission Studies on the Formation of Acid Water and Metal Corrosion

Synchrotron-based photoelectron spectroscopy was used to study adsorption of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide on ice multilayers deposited on zinc. The formation of acid water (H2O/HxSO4 or H2O/HxNO3) and the corrosion of the underlying Zn metal were investigated. Small amounts of dosed SO2 react with an ice multilayer at 100 K producing sulfuric acid-like species (HxSO4) on the surface. Extensive dosing leads to a condensed SO2 multilayer which is thermally unstable and desorbs upon mild heating to 130−150 K. Above 170 K, when also the ice multilayer desorbs, the only sulfur species on the Zn surface is HxSO4. The {H2O/HxSO4} mixture eventually oxidizes the metal, and the adsorbed SO4 groups are stable to at least 350 K. At 100 K, the initial stage of a NO2 adsorption on ice is nonreactive. NO2 reacts with ice only at higher exposures, producing a small amount of nitric acid-like species (HxNO3), followed by condensation of an O2N−NO2 multilayer. The N2O4 multilayer partially desorbs at temperatures a...
The Dynamics of Battering Revisited

There is no agreement on the theories that attempt to explain the abuse of women by their partners or spouses. Thus, interventions vary, depending on individual practitioners' conceptualizations of...
Skeletal muscle sodium current is reduced in hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP), described a recent issue of PNAS by Jurkat-Rott and colleagues (1), has great scientific and clinical interest because its pathophysiology touches on several important properties of skeletal muscle. Besides providing the force for movement, skeletal muscle is an electrically excitable tissue and an important endocrine target organ as the largest protein store for humans (2). Jurkat-Rott et al. (1) defined some of the abnormalities in surface membrane ionic currents that are responsible for the phenotype of HypoPP. HypoPP is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by episodic attacks of muscle paralysis usually associated with hypokalemia. Paralysis is caused by membrane depolarization triggering sodium channel inactivation, which renders the membrane inexcitable (3–5). Membrane hyperexcitability, such as myotonia, is never associated with HypoPP. Insulin administration may trigger a paralytic attack without appreciable hypokalemia (3–5). The first recognized linkage of HypoPP was to chromosome 1Q31–32 (6–8). The defective gene (CACNA1S) encodes a skeletal muscle dihydropyridine-sensitive or L-type calcium channel. Two mutations have been described in segment 4 of domain 2 (D2/S4, Arg-528→His) and D4/S4 (Arg-1239→His) of the α-subunit of the skeletal muscle L-type calcium channel. A third less common mutation also involves D4/S4 (Arg-1239→Gly) (5, 7, 9, 10). Two recent studies demonstrated that point mutations in the SCN4A gene affecting D2/S4 of the α-subunit of the mature innervated and tetrodotoxin-sensitive isoform of the skeletal muscle sodium channel can produce the phenotype of HypoPP. Bulman et al. (11) described one family with an Arg-669→His mutation. In this issue, Jurkat-Rott et al. (1) described five families, each of which had one of two mutations Arg-672→His or Arg-672→Gly.
The Dimensions of 1 X 1 Rib Fabrics: Part I : Literature Survey

A literature review of the various fabric geometry studies of single-jersey and rib-knit fabrics is presented, and compila tion and comparison of some of the results for the latter are given. Fabric shrinkage is discussed briefly in light of the loop length, shape changes, and degree of intermeshing changes.
The effects of endothelin-1 on collagen type I and type III synthesis in cultured porcine coronary artery vascular smooth muscle cells.

Abstract Restenosis is the single most important factor limiting a favorable long-term outcome following mechanical revascularization. The vascular endothelium, through the release of key regulatory compounds, may regulate vascular structure by exerting fundamental control over collagen synthesis following injury to the vessel wall. We tested the hypothesis that endothelin (ET-1), an endothelium-derived peptide previously shown to be increased in pathological states, differentially stimulates porcine coronary vascular smooth muscle cell collagen types I and III synthesis. Monocultures of porcine coronary vascular smooth muscle were exposed to varying concentrations of endothelin over a 24 –96-h time period. The medium was assayed for soluble collagen types I and III using a sensitive and specific ELISA method. Experiments were also done with the ET-1 antagonists PD 145065 and BQ123. Cell counts and viability were serially monitored. Experiments were also conducted with angiotensin II (A-II). A-II and ET-1 stimulated cell proliferation. ET-1 maximally stimulated collagen type I synthesis at 48 h at an optimal concentration of 10 −8 m , with no significant stimulation of collagen type III synthesis. The ET A specific antagonist BQ123 significantly inhibited the stimulatory effects of ET-1. A-II also stimulated collagen type I synthesis above basal levels, but was less efficacious than endothelin (95 ±5 %, A-II, v 189 ±14 % ET-1). In contrast to ET-1, A-II stimulated collagen type III synthesis (31 ±6 % above basal, compared to −4 ±5 % for ET-1). Results are also reported using smooth muscle cells from porcine aorta. The data demonstrate that ET-1 and A-II stimulate collagen synthesis by coronary artery vascular smooth muscle, and that they exert a differential effect over the two types of collagen that are present in the intima following balloon injury. Thus, the over expression of key regulatory compounds by endothelium following balloon injury could enhance collagen deposition and, consequently, play an integral role in intimal hyperplasia and restenosis.
Production Traits of Leghorn Pullets in Controlled Temperatures

Abstract Production traits, including sexual maturity, egg production, egg weight, shell strength, body weight, and feeding efficiency were studied with four strains of Leghorn pullets exposed to temperatures of 10°, 23°, and 36°C. The effect of abruptly changing these temperatures at 4-week intervals and of diurnally cyclic temperatures was investigated in avian bioclimatic chambers. The experiments started when birds were 20 weeks of age, and continued for 24 weeks. Abrupt changes to a temperature of 36°C. resulted in mortality, and susceptibility to heat-stroke increased with age. Egg production was highest in the low temperature for the control groups of birds, whereas feed efficiency tended to be best in the high or cyclic temperature groups. With the petite strain, egg production and feed efficiency were best in the medium temperature. Shifting the birds at intervals of 4 weeks tended to lower the overall egg production. When pullets were shifted from 22° to 34°C. they consistently lost weight, which was regained when the birds were shifted from 34° to 10°C. Egg weight and shell thickness was greatest in the low-temperature group. The percentage of blood spots was very high in two of the strains tested, and tended to be reduced at high temperature. Length of the toe nails varied directly with ambient temperature.
Glycine receptor mechanism elucidated by electron cryo-microscopy

The strychnine-sensitive glycine receptor (GlyR) mediates inhibitory synaptic transmission in the spinal cord and brainstem and is linked to neurological disorders, including autism and hyperekplexia. Understanding of molecular mechanisms and pharmacology of glycine receptors has been hindered by a lack of high-resolution structures. Here we report electron cryo-microscopy structures of the zebrafish α1 GlyR with strychnine, glycine, or glycine and ivermectin (glycine/ivermectin). Strychnine arrests the receptor in an antagonist-bound closed ion channel state, glycine stabilizes the receptor in an agonist-bound open channel state, and the glycine/ivermectin complex adopts a potentially desensitized or partially open state. Relative to the glycine-bound state, strychnine expands the agonist-binding pocket via outward movement of the C loop, promotes rearrangement of the extracellular and transmembrane domain 'wrist' interface, and leads to rotation of the transmembrane domain towards the pore axis, occluding the ion conduction pathway. These structures illuminate the GlyR mechanism and define a rubric to interpret structures of Cys-loop receptors.