cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of synthesis of 15α-hydroxylated steroids in males of four North American lamprey species

Abstract Recent studies have provided evidence that 15α-hydroxytestosterone (15α-T) and 15α-hydroxyprogesterone (15α-P) are produced in vitro and in vivo in adult male sea lampreys ( Petromyzon marinus ), and that circulatory levels increase in response to injections with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). We examined four species from the Petromyzontidae family including silver lampreys ( Ichthyomyzon unicuspis ), chestnut lampreys ( I. castaneus ), American brook lampreys ( Lethenteron appendix ), and Pacific lampreys ( Entosphenus tridentatus ) to determine if these unusual steroids were unique to sea lampreys or a common feature in lamprey species. In vitro production was examined through incubations of testis with tritiated precursors, and 15α-T and 15α-P production was confirmed in all species through co-elution with standards on both high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and thin layer chromatography. In vivo production was proven by demonstrating that HPLC-fractionated plasma had peaks of immunoreactive 15α-T and 15α-P that co-eluted with standards through using previously developed radioimmunoassays for 15α-T and 15α-P. The possible functionality of 15α-T and 15α-P was further examined in silver and Pacific lampreys by investigating the effect of injection of either type of lamprey GnRH on plasma concentrations of 15α-T and 15α-P. Injections with exogenous GnRH did not affect circulatory levels of either steroid in silver lampreys, and only GnRH III elicited higher levels of both steroids in Pacific lampreys. The 15α-hydroxylase enzyme(s) for steroids appeared to present in adult males of all species examined, but the question of whether 15α-hydroxylated steroids are functional in these lamprey species, and the significance of the 15-hydroxyl group, requires further research.
Effects of Surface Roughness, Freestream Turbulence, and Incidence Angle on the Performance of a 2-D Compressor Cascade

The effects of surface roughness, freestream turbulence, and incidence angle on the performance of a two-dimensional compressor cascade were investigated. The test section consisted of seven NACA 65-A506 airfoils arranged in a linear cascade. Four different surface roughness conditions were applied to the first 25 percent chord on the suction surface of each of the five middle blades in the cascade. Freestream turbulence levels of approximately one and seven percent were used. Incidence angles of −3, zero and +3 degrees were investigated. Of the three parameters tested, freestream turbulence exerted the largest influence on blade performance. The total pressure loss coefficient increased with increased roughness and was reduced for large turbulence. Changes in flow incidence had a lesser effect on the performance of the blade.Copyright © 1990 by ASME
Blood—Brain Barrier Permeability and Brain Concentration of Sodium, Potassium, and Chloride during Focal Ischemia:

Brain edema formation during the early stages of focal cerebral ischemia is associated with an increase in both sodium content and blood-brain barrier (BBB) sodium transport. The goals of this study were to determine whether chloride is the principal anion that accumulates in ischemic brain, how the rate of BBB transport of chloride compares with its rate of accumulation, and whether the stimulation seen in BBB sodium transport is also seen with other cations. Focal ischemia was produced by occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO) in anesthetized rats. Over the first 6 h after MCAO, the amount of brain water in the center of the ischemic cortex increased progressively at a rate of 0.15 +/- 0.02 (SE) g/g dry wt/h. This was accompanied by a net increase in brain sodium (48 +/- 12 mumol/g dry wt/h) and a loss of potassium (34 +/- 7 mumol/g dry wt/h). The net rate of chloride accumulation (16 +/- 1 mumol/g dry wt/h) approximated the net rate of increase of cations. Three hours after MCAO, the BBB permeability to three ions (22Na, 36Cl, and 86Rb) and two passive permeability tracers ([3H]alpha-aminoisobutyric acid ([3H]AIB) and [14C]urea) was determined. Permeability to either passive tracer was not increased, indicating that the BBB was intact. The rate of 36Cl influx was 3 times greater and the rate of 22Na influx 1.8 times greater than their respective net rates of accumulation in ischemic brain.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Asymptomatic Congenital Subclavian Steal in a Young Male Patient with Right Aortic Arch

The clinical and angiographic features of a patient with right aortic arch and isolation of the left subciavian artery from the aorta were described. This young male patient showed no symptoms and signs of the insufficiency of both brain and left-arm blood flow, in spite of the congenital left subciavian steal. (Chest 1990; 97:481–82)
Algorithm for subpixel edge positioning and part sizing under coherent projection

Abstract An approach for subpixel edge positioning and part sizing by coherent shadow projection is described. Templates matching the Fresnel diffraction pattern at the shadow borders are used to locate precisely the edges by an iterative cross- correlation procedure. A similar procedure is followed to compensate for longitudinal displacements by monitoring their effects on the diffraction pattern. The performance is analysed in the presence of mechanical, optical and electronic perturbations. A resolution of nearly 0.015 pixels and an accuracy of 0.15 pixels have been obtained.
Damage by Larvae of the Corn Earworm to Grain Sorghum

The 1st and 2nd instars of the corn earworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie), preferred to feed on the flowering stage of sorghum; the remaining 4 instars preferred the milk stage. The 5th instar accounted for 17.4 and the 6th instar 65.6% of the grain consumed. Third-instar larvae placed on sorghum heads in the flowering stage and allowed to complete larval development accounted for 95% of grain consumed. When corn earworm larvae were caged on RS 610 sorghum heads, cach larva decreased the yield about 3.9 g per head at harvest. Yield reductions per larva were similar for heads of different sizes and for levels of infestations of 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 larvae per head. About 20 corn earworm larvae per 10 heads would be considered an economically damaging population where the space between heads was an average of 8 inches and row spacing 40 inches.
Versatility of Percutaneous Pedicular Screw Fixation in Metastatic Spine Tumor Surgery: A Prospective Analysis

Posterior percutaneous spinal fixation (PPSF) has evolved to address the problems associated with metastatic spinal disease (MSD). This study was designed to evaluate the feasibility and spectrum of application of PPSF in the management of MSD, highlighting its clinical advantages. Twenty-seven consecutive patients with MSD treated with PPSF in our institution from January 2011 to June 2014 were studied. After a multidisciplinary assessment, all patients were considered for surgical intervention due to clinical presentation of either neural deficit, skeletal instability, or both. Some of these patients belonged to the poor prognostic category based on survival prognostic scoring systems. The patients were categorized into seven groups depending on the modality of PPSF used. Demographic data, operative details, and clinical outcomes were investigated for each category and compared pre- and postoperatively. The median age was 60 years (range 49–78 years). Generally, all patients either maintained or improved their neurological status and achieved pain alleviation. Ambulatory status and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores were improved using any modality of PPSF. The pure-stabilization group had the lowest amount of mean blood loss, shortest operative time, and intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays, while the long-construct group was observed to have the greatest amount of blood loss, and longest operative time and ICU stay. For patients with MSD, even with predicted poor prognosis on survival prognostic scoring systems, it is possible to improve functional outcomes and quality of life with PPSF, keeping surgical morbidity to a minimum. PPSF allows patients with pure spinal instability to be addressed successfully with least morbidity.
Moral Courage and Facing Others

Abstract Moral courage involves acting in the service of one’s convictions, in spite of the risk of retaliation or punishment. I suggest that moral courage also involves a capacity to face others as moral agents, and thus in a manner that does not objectify them. A moral stand can only be taken toward another moral agent. Often, we find ourselves unable to face others in this way, because to do so is frightening, or because we are consumed by blinding anger. But without facing others as moral subjects, we risk moral cowardice on the one hand and moral fanaticism on the other.
Slow equilibration of micellar detergent solutions

Abstract Several properties of aqueous solutions of iso-nonyloctadecyldimethylammonium nitrate and bromide have been found to undergo a slow change with time. The electrical conductance increases approximately twofold in about 24 hours after the solid has been dissolved. The turbidity of the nitrate solution (measured from the light scattering at 90°) decreases by one-third during a period of similar duration. The viscosity also undergoes a large decrease in several hours. These results suggest a slow disaggregation of the detergent micelles. The corresponding chloride undergoes rapid equilibration in conductance and turbidity. Light scattering vs. concentration data for water solutions of the nitrate and chloride indicate that considerably larger micelles are formed by the nitrate. In acetone and in acetone-water mixtures, the change with time is either absent or is very small for solutions of iso-nonyloctadecyldimethylammonium chloride in water, and of the nitrate in dilute acetone-water mixtures, which indicates that a small decrease in the tendency to form micelles has a large effect on the rate of disaggregation.
Spectrophotometry of Pluto from 3500 to 7350 Å

Spectra of Pluto have been obtained on six nights during February 1979 by the use of the Cassegrain Digicon spectrograph on the 2.1-m Struve reflector and the IDS spectrograph on the 2.7-m reflector of McDonald Observatory. These spectra, with nominal resolution of 6-7 A, have been reduced to relative fluxes. Relative albedos were then calculated using the solar irradiances of Arvesen et al. (1969). The spectra taken in the blue show no indication of the upturn in albedo at wavelengths less than 3800 A previously reported by Fix, et al. (1970). The lack of a UV upturn cannot be interpreted in terms of a Rayleigh scattering atmosphere unless the albedo of the underlying surface is known. From the lack of methane absorption at the wavelength of the 6190- or 7270-A methane bands, an upper limit of 1-3 m-am of gaseous CH4 is derived. The albedo curve has a constant slope between 3500 and 7300 A. The only other solar system body which has this feature is an S-type asteroid.
A phosphatase activity in Xenopus oocyte extracts preferentially dephosphorylates the MPM-2 epitope

MPM-2 antigens are a large family of mitotic phosphoproteins that contain similar phosphoepitopes recognized by the anti-phosphoepitope antibody MPM-2 (MPM-2 epitopes). These proteins are phosphorylated during M phase induction and dephosphorylated from the onset of anaphase through interphase. Since biochemical characterization of the MPM-2 epitope phosphatase requires a specific assay for its activity, we tested different methods for measurement of the MPM-2 epitope phosphatase activity in crude cell lysates. First, an ELISA-based assay was designed that measured the phosphatase-induced reduction of the MPM-2 reactivity in crude M phase cell lysates. Using this assay to follow the phosphatase activity during sequential chromatography of Xenopus oocyte extracts, one predominant peak of phosphatase activity was detected which was separated from the majority of PP1 and PP2A activities. This phosphatase activity dephosphorylated the MPM-2 epitope on multiple MPM-2 antigens. The second method measured dephosphorylation of cdc25, a known MPM-2 antigen. Two major peaks of cdc25 dephosphorylating activities were detected during the sequential chromatography, one that copurified with the major peak of MPM-2 epitope phosphatase activity, and the other with the major peak of PP2A activity. Finally, we examined whether GST-MPM2, a fusion protein between glutathione S-transferase and a 19-residue peptide that contained two representative MPM-2 epitope sequences, could be dephosphorylated efficiently and specifically by the major MPM-2 epitope phosphatase activity in Xenopus oocyte extracts. Neither the crude extract nor the partially purified MPM-2 epitope phosphatase activity efficiently dephosphorylated the MPM-2 epitope on GST-MPM2. These results demonstrate that the ELISA-based assay preferentially detects the MPM-2 epitope phosphatase activity in crude cell lysates which may represent a physiological MPM-2 epitope phosphatase.
Proximity relationship in the binary complex formed between troponin I and troponin C

We have determined six molecular distances among four sites in the binary complex formed between troponin C (TnC) and troponin I (TnI) by fluorescence resonance energy transfer between donor and acceptor probes that were either an intrinsic fluorophore (Trp158 of TnI) or extrinsic probes attached to the sites. The three extrinsic probes were dansylaziridine (DNZ), N'-(iodoacetyl)-N'-(8-sulfo-1-naphthyl)ethylenediamine (IAEDANS) and 5-(iodoacetamido)eosin (IAE). The four fluorophores provided four donor-acceptor pairs: DNZ----IAE, Trp----IAEDANS, IAEDANS----IAE, and Trp----DNZ. They allowed determinations of separations between specific sites from measurements of energy transfer from (1) Met25 (DNZ) to Cys98 (IAE) in TnC, (2) Trp158 to Cys133 (IAEDANS) in TnI, (3) Cys98 (IAEDANS) of TnC to Cys133(IAE) of TnI, (4) Trp158 of TnI to Cys98(IAEDANS) of TnC, and (6) Met25(DNZ) of TnC to Cys133(IAE) of TnI. Distance (1) in TnC was little affected when the isolated protein was complexed with TnI, whereas distance (2) in TnI increased by 6A (29%) when TnI was incorporated into the binary complex. In the presence of EGTA, the six donor-acceptor separations (R) in the complex were in the range 28 to 57 A based on kappa 2 = 2/3. Mg2+ had only small effects on R, but Ca2+ induced substantial increases or decreases of R in five of the six distances. These changes were not accompanied by significant changes in the axial depolarization of the fluorophores. The results indicate global structural perturbations of regions of the two proteins in the complex by Ca2+ binding to the TnC, and suggest that large-scale movements of domains of troponin subunits may be the initial molecular events that occur in the transmission of the Ca2+ signal in the regulation of contraction by calcium.
FREEZE-DRYING OF ALGAE: CHLOROPHYTA AND CHRYSOPHYTA1

Thirty-nine of 106 algal strains tested were successfully lyophilized using at least one of the following as suspending agents: 20% (w/v) skim milk, 12% (w/v) sucrose, 100% lamb serum and 100% horse serum. The majority of the Chlorella and Scenedesmusstrains tested (27/40) were amenable to freeze-drying. Much less success (3/18) occurred with the Chlamydomonas strains tested. At least one strain of Ankistrodesmus, Bracteacoccus, Characium, Trebouxia, Haematococcus, Coccomyxa, Interfilum, Hormidium and Nephrodiella were also recovered. More strains were recovered with 20% skim milk as the protective agent than with 12% sucrose; however, 12% sucrose generally provided higher yields. Freeze-drying appears to be an effective method of preservation far some algal strains.
The hematopoietic toxicity of regional radiation therapy. Correlations for combined modality therapy with systemic chemotherapy.

Using circulating granulocyte-monocyte precursor colony-forming units in culture (CFUc) numbers as a probe along with standard blood count (CBC), the authors have quantitatively examined the hematopoietic toxicity of conventionally fractionated radiation therapy (RT) when combined with concurrent systemic chemotherapy or when used alone. Among 20 patients with limited stage small cell lung cancer receiving systemic chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, CCNU, and methotrexate, the addition of involved field chest RT resulted in increased hematopoietic toxicity as judged by increased need for platelet transfusion (P less than 0.05) and decreased frequency of measurable CFUc (P less than 0.04). Among 22 patients receiving regional radiotherapy alone consistent hematopoietic toxicity was also observed. This toxicity, although generally of only mild to moderate clinical significance, was detected earlier and to a greater degree in patients who required radiation to larger treatment volumes, who had significant amounts of bone marrow in the port, and who had a high percentage of cardiac output flowing through the port. These data suggest that the hematopoietic toxicity of regional radiotherapy may be additive to that of concurrent systemic chemotherapy and may occur more promptly and to a greater degree when treatment volumes are larger or incorporate increased amounts of marrow volumemore » or cardiac output.« less
Sex and the genome.

The genetic composition of sex chromosomes has been deciphered, in part, through large-scale gene expression studies in different species. A new study in mice adds a missing piece of the puzzle: the composition of the X chromosome in mammals is influenced by inactivation of the sex chromosomes during male meiosis.
Laboratory aids in the diagnosis of malabsorption in pediatrics

Standard methods employed for evaluation of the absorption of fat are considered impractical for widespread clinical use. The Lipiodol absorption test has been modified to provide a reliable means of establishing the presence or absence of steatorrhea. The test is practical enough for outpatient use and simple enough to permit widespread application with minimum laboratory equipment. Complete agreement was found between the results of the modified Lipiodol absorption test and four day fat balances in patients with various types of malabsorption and in control subjects. Although the test is not specific for any single disease, the reliability and simplicity of the methods and materials involved recommend the use of this method of testing for steatorrhea.
“Natural” economic blocs: an alternative formulation

This article offers an alternative to what has become a conventional definition of “natural” regional grouping. Instead of focusing on the total value of intraregional trade or its share in the region's total trade, it focuses on the pattern of trade prior to integration. It formulates a method for assessing the degree to which joining a regional bloc would distort the ranking of a country's industries by comparative advantage. A “natural” grouping is one that would largely preserve the comparative advantage of the constituent countries. It occurs if each of the constituent countries’ exports to the world as a whole has a commodity mix similar to its exports to the integrating region.
Oxygen deprivation as a drive state in an aquatic insect: Family Dytiscidae

Thirty aquatic diving beetles,Rhantus atncolor, of the family Dytiscidae, were subjected to 1-, 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 25-min levels of oxygen deprivation. The level of deprivation was procured by submerging the Ss under water for the allotted period of time. A control group receiving no oxygen deprivation was also tested. The results clearly established oxygen deprivation as a drive state capable of increasing the general level of activity in aquatic Coleoptera as measured by swimming speed in the runway. Significant differences were also found between these deprivation levels.
Transforming growth factor-β1 enhances the interferon-γ-dependent, interleukin-12-independent pathway of T helper 1 cell differentiation

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, a pleiotropic cytokine that has multiple effects on immune responses, has been shown to inhibit interleukin (IL)-4/GATA-3 expression as well as T helper 2 (Th2) differentiation. Consistent with these reports, we found that priming T cells from DO11.10 transgenic mice with antigen in the presence of TGF-beta inhibited GATA-3 expression and the development of IL-4-producing T cells. Unexpectedly, the inhibition of Th2 development was accompanied by a substantial increase in the number of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)-producing cells. T cells primed with TGF-beta secreted IFN-gamma in response to both T-cell receptor ligation and IL-12/IL-18 stimulation, and expressed high levels of T-bet and low levels of GATA-3. The TGF-beta-mediated enhancement of T helper 1 (Th1) priming was independent of IL-12 and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-4, but required endogenous IFN-gamma. TGF-beta-mediated enhancement of the IFN-gamma-dependent, IL-12-independent pathway of Th1 priming was mediated primarily by the inhibition of IL-4 produced by memory/activated T cells in the unfractionated CD4+ responder population. Nevertheless, TGF-beta did not inhibit this pathway of Th1 differentiation when purified naive CD4+ T cells were used as responders. These data have important implications for strategies being considered for the use of TGF-beta-producing T cells for the treatment of autoimmune disorders.
Speed of information processing in academically gifted youths.

Abstract A group of bright-average 7th grade junior-high-school students was contrasted with a group of manifestly academically gifted students of comparable age who were taking college-level courses in mathematics and science. The groups differed significantly and markedly (showing an overall mean difference of 1.34 SD) on every one of the nine different reaction-time (RT) tasks measuring the speed with which persons perform various elementary cognitive processes. The results indicate that: (1) various RT measurements discriminate about as much between intellectually average and superior groups as past studies have found RT measurements to discriminate between average and subnormal groups: and (2) the academically gifted differ from their nongifted age-peers in more than just scholastic knowledge and advanced problem-solving skills—they differ fundamentally in speed of information processing on extremely simple cognitive tasks with average response latencies of between 0.3 and 1.5 sec.
Properties of an In Vitro Selected Pb2+ Cleavage Motif+

The addition of Pb2+ to a small RNA molecule consisting of an asymmetric internal loop of six nucleotides results in site-specific cleavage followed by hydrolysis of the 2',3'-cyclic phosphate intermediate [Pan, T., & Uhlenbeck, O.C. (1992) Nature 358, 560-563]. Here we show that the reaction is highly specific for Pb2+ and the cleavage rate increases exponentially with pH from 5.5 to 7.0, both in the presence and in the absence of Mg2+. This suggests that the reaction mechanism involves Pb2+ hydroxide acting as a base. Several sequence variants of the RNA are found to be equally active in both steps of the reaction, suggesting that they fold into a similar structure.
Purification and some enzymic properties of a fungal carboxypeptidase.

Abstract A carboxypeptidase has been purified approximately 100-fold from culture filtrates of the phytopathogenic fungus Phymatotrichum omnivorum . The procedure eliminated the endopeptidase, the aminopeptidase, and the pigments produced by this organism and yielded a final product that appeared essentially homogeneous. The carboxypeptidase possessed both peptidase and esterase activities toward certain synthetic substrates with free carboxyl groups. Among several N-blocked dipeptides, the enzyme was most active against carbobenzoxyglycyl- l -phenyalanine, and did not hydrolyze substrates with C-terminal basic amino acids, proline, or dicarboxylic amino acids. The fungal carboxypeptidase was maximally active over the range pH 6–8 and was relatively insensitive to ionic strength. Chelating agents reduced activity, which could be restored by addition of certain divalent metal ions.
The Corporate Role

In its quest for increased access to the media big business is supporting the development of a Fourth Network and other programming alternatives.
Ground state energy and width of He-7 from Li-8 proton knockout

The ground state energy and width of $^{7}\mathrm{He}$ has been measured with the Modular Neutron Array (MoNA) and superconducting dipole Sweeper magnet experimental setup at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory. $^{7}\mathrm{He}$ was produced by proton knockout from a secondary $^{8}\mathrm{Li}$ beam. The measured decay energy spectrum is compared to simulations based on Breit-Wigner line shape with an energy-dependent width for the resonant state. The energy of the ground state is found to be 400(10) keV with a full-width at half-maximum of $125({}_{\ensuremath{-}15}^{+40})$ keV.
Evaluation of the CASSI-DD hyperspectral compressive sensing imaging system

Compressive Sensing (CS) systems capture data with fewer measurements than traditional sensors assuming that imagery is redundant and compressible in the spatial and spectral dimensions. We utilize a model of the Coded Aperture Snapshot Spectral Imager-Dual Disperser (CASSI-DD) CS model to simulate CS measurements from HyMap images. Flake et al's novel reconstruction algorithm, which combines a spectral smoothing parameter and spatial total variation (TV), is used to create high resolution hyperspectral imagery. 1 We examine the e ect of the number of measurements, which corresponds to the percentage of physical data sampled, on the delity of simulated data. The impacts of the CS sensor model and reconstruction of the data cloud and the utility for various hyperspectral applications are described to identify the strengths and limitations of CS.
Changes in Plasma Concentrations of Luteinizing Hormone, Progesterone, and Testosterone in Turkey Hens during the Ovulatory Cycle☆

Abstract Changes in luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone, and testosterone concentrations were determined in blood samples taken every 10 min for 26 hr during an ovulatory cycle in laying turkey hens. During the 26-hr sampling period, one peak of both LH and progesterone and numerous peaks of testosterone were detected. The concentration of LH in plasma increased from basal level (2.44–4.0 ng/ml) to maximum level (8.57–24.3 ng/ml) over 1 to 2 hr and then declined over 3 to 5 hr to a basal level. The duration of the descending portion of the peak was about double that of the ascending portion. The concentration of progesterone increased rapidly from a basal level of 1.18–1.65 ng/ml to a peak of 6.18–11.87 ng/ml and then maintained a plateau before rapidly declining to basal level. The concentration of testosterone increased from a basal level of 0.06–0.09 ng/ml to a peak level of 0.13–0.30 ng/ml. All maximum levels of testosterone preceded those of LH, and all maximum levels of LH preceded those of progesterone. The durations of the progesterone peaks were longer than those of the LH peaks. Progesterone concentrations returned to basal level after LH had returned to basal level, although the initial increase in progesterone concentration was earlier, later, or at the same time as LH. Peak durations of testosterone were variable. The preovulatory surges of LH and progesterone of five of nine sets of samples started at the end of the scotophase and ended during the beginning portion of the photophase. In three of nine sets both the start and the end occurred during the scotophase and in one of nine sets during the photophase. It was concluded from this study that the patterns of secretion of LH, progesterone, and testosterone were similar in that the preovulatory surge was superimposed on a relatively stable basal level, while the temporal relationships of the ovulatory surges of these hormones were variable. The preovulatory surges were more tightly associated with ovulation rather than with photoperiod. Neither progesterone nor testosterone might be an initiator of the LH surge prior to ovulation.
Atopic irritable bowel syndrome: a novel subgroup of irritable bowel syndrome with allergic manifestations

Background Mast cells have a primary role in atopy. Mast cells may play a unique role in a subgroup of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This observation suggests a link between atopic disorders and IBS. Objective To determine whether there is an association between atopic disorders and IBS. Methods We undertook a prospective study using structured questionnaires. We administered questionnaires to 125 consecutive patients seen in the following clinics from July 1 through October 31, 2001: allergy/immunology (AI) (n = 39), gastroenterology (n = 36), and general medicine (n = 50). The survey included questions detailing gastrointestinal and allergic symptoms. Diagnosis of IBS was based on Rome II criteria. Diagnosis of atopy was based on clinical parameters. Results The AI clinic reported a significantly ( P = .015) higher rate of IBS than the general medicine clinic. The IBS incidence reported in the AI clinic was similar to that reported in the gastroenterology clinic. The likelihood of IBS was significantly higher in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (2.67 times; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-6.49; P = .03), patients with allergic eczema (3.85 times; 95% CI, 1.72-8.60; P = .001), and patients with depression (2.56 times; 95% CI, 1.05-6.14; P = .04). Patients reporting atopic symptoms (seasonal allergic rhinitis, allergic eczema, and asthma) were 3.20 times (95% CI, 1.20-8.50) ( P = .02) more likely to fulfill the criteria for IBS. Conclusions Adults with atopic symptoms report a high incidence of IBS, suggesting a link between atopy and IBS. We proposed a subgroup of patients with IBS (atopic IBS) who have typical IBS symptoms in association with atopic manifestations. Identifying atopic vs nonatopic IBS may help in identifying the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms and therapeutic options.
Magnetic white dwarf stars

Three aspects of magnetic white dwarf stars are studied to aid in the understanding of stellar evolution. A survey of ~ 50 DC white dwarf stars was conducted in circular spectropolarimetry to search for magnetic fields >~ 30 kG. Four DC stars were discovered with magnetic fields above 30 kG: G 111-49 with Be ~ -220 MG, G 183-35 with Be= +6.8 ± 0.5 MG, G 256-7 with Be= +4.9 ± 0.5 MG, and G 234-4 with Be=+39.6 ± 11.6 kG. A new magnetic DB white dwarf was also discovered, LB 8827 with Be= 1.0 ± 0.5 MG. A total of 15% of the white dwarfs in the survey have a magnetic field > 30 kG. This value is far larger than the 2% of DA stars, but more than half of the DC stars were originally misclassified. Only 5% of the re-classified DC stars have magnetic fields above 30 kG. Three magnetic stars from the DC white dwarf survey were re-observed to investigate the possibility of rotation. Two are definitely rotating: LHS 1734 with 16 min <~ P < 1 yr and G 158-45 (=LHS 1044) with a probable period P ~ 4.44hr but a definite period P The isolated magnetic white dwarfs G 99-47, KUV 813-14 (KUV 23162-1220), and G 227-35 were observed in linear and circular spectropolarimetry and then compared to calculated theoretical spectra to find a model for the magnetic field strength and structure. The comparisons were to Stokes' V/I (circular polarization) spectra in addition to total flux Flambda, and these add many constraints to the possible solutions. An off-centered dipole or a dipole+quadrupole configuration best fits the observations. The results of the survey and the modeling are consistent with the theory that the magnetic Ap stars are the predecessors of magnetic white dwarfs.
Genetic Control of Heat Sensitivity and Activity Level of Murine Arylsulfatase B

BALB/c male mice possess twofold higher kidney p-nitrocatechol-SO4 arylsulfatase B than do A/HeJ male mice; however, their liver arylsulfatase activities are comparable. Twentyfold-purified kidney arylsulfatases B from these two strains have similar Michaelis constants, electrophoretic mobilities, pH optima, and inhibitor profiles; however, the BALB/c enzyme is more heat stable than the A/HeJ enzyme. BALB/c, C3H/HeJ, DBA/2J, and SWR/J mice share an autosomal allele, As-1 a, which apparently determines the heat-stable arylsulfatase B, while A/HeJ and C57BL/6J mice possess the As-1 ballele, which determines the heat-sensitive enzyme. A second autosomal locus, Asr-1, determines liver arylsulfatase B activity. C57BL/6J mice carry the Asr-1 a allele, which results in high liver activities, while C3H/HeJ mice are homozygous for the low-activity allele, Asr-1 b. Male mice generally have 30–40% higher kidney activities than females; however, female kidney arylsulfatase activities rise and actually surpass those of males during late pregnancy and lactation.
Quantification of Particulate Matter from Commercial Building Excavation Activities Using Life-Cycle Approach

AbstractConstruction activities generate large amounts of differing emissions, including particulate matter (PM). These particles are of various aerodynamic diameters—between 10 and 2.5 μm (PM10–2.5), or coarse particulates, and smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5), or fine particulates. Coarse particulates are more commonly associated with fugitive dust releases, whereas fine particulates are generally from the combustion of fossil fuels. The combination of construction equipment and diesel fuel combustion emissions and excavated and then exposed earth on a construction site is of particular concern with respect to PM emissions. This research developed a life-cycle assessment model to quantitatively evaluate PM emissions at different scales. An illustrative case study is used to explore the excavation phase of an urban high-rise. The excavation phase includes excavation and hauling of soil, mobilizing and demobilizing of equipment, workers commuting, delivery of fuel, handling of soil at the soil disposal site an...
Separation of the tryptic peptides from reduced, alkylated hen egg white lysozyme by high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract We describe high-performance liquid chromatographic systems for the separation of the tryptic peptides of reduced, alkylated hen eggwhite lysozyme. The resolved peptides which contained 3–23 amino acid residues were identified by determination of amino acid composition. Gradients of acetonitrile with aqueous ammonium acetate or ammonium chloride were employed to elute from a reversed-phase C 18 column, monitoring absorbance at 205 nm, 212 nm or 280 nm. Peptides containing S-carboxymethyl-cysteine eluted more rapidly than the corresponding S-ethylsuccinimido peptides.
Tyrosine phosphorylation in T cells is regulated by phosphatase activity: studies with phenylarsine oxide.

Abstract Activation of T cells induces rapid tyrosine phosphorylation on the T-cell receptor zeta chain and other substrates. These phosphorylations can be regulated by a number of protein-tyrosine kinases (ATP: protein-tyrosine O-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.112) and protein-tyrosine-phosphatases (protein-tyrosine-phosphate phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.48). In this study, we demonstrate that phenylarsine oxide can inhibit tyrosine phosphatases while leaving tyrosine kinase function intact. We use this reagent to investigate the effect of tyrosine phosphatase inhibition in a murine T-cell hybridoma. Increasing concentrations of phenylarsine oxide result in an increase in tyrosine phosphate on a number of intracellular substrates in unstimulated T cells, suggesting that a protein-tyrosine kinase is constitutively active in these cells. The effect of phenylarsine oxide on T cells stimulated with an anti-Thy 1 monoclonal antibody is more complex. At low concentrations of drug, there is a synergistic increase in the level of tyrosine phosphate on certain cellular substrates. At higher concentrations, anti-Thy 1-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation is inhibited. These results indicate that tyrosine phosphorylation in T cells is tightly regulated by tyrosine phosphatases. Partial inhibition of these enzymes results in enhanced substrate phosphorylation. Inhibition of all stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation by high doses of phenylarsine oxide suggests that tyrosine kinase activity is regulated by tyrosine phosphatases.
Motivational interviewing as a mechanism for change in men who batter: a randomized controlled trial

The present study reports on the potential effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) in changing the way batterers think about their violent behavior. Thirty-three domestic violence offenders who were court-mandated to treatment were randomly assigned to MI or a control condition before attending their first mandated treatment group. Consistent with predictions, the MI group demonstrated generally more improvement on stages of change subscales than the control group. Further, the MI group demonstrated a significantly greater decrease in the extent to which they blamed their violence on external factors. Current data indicate that MI has the potential to increase batterers' motivation to change, although validation trials with larger sample sizes and more refined measures are required.
Functions of Memory Sharing and Mother-Child Reminiscing Behaviors: Individual and Cultural Variations

This study examined maternal beliefs about the functions of memory sharing and the relations between these beliefs and mother-child reminiscing behaviors in a cross-cultural context. Sixty-three European American and 47 Chinese mothers completed an open-ended questionnaire concerning their beliefs about the functions of parent-child memory sharing. They also engaged in a joint-reminiscing task with their child. European American mothers were more likely than Chinese mothers to report social (conversational and relationship maintenance) and teaching/problem solving functions. In addition, conversational functions were associated with increased maternal elaborativeness and evaluations during reminiscing, independent of culture. Results are discussed in light of the functional and cultural contexts of early autobiographical memory development.
Creatinine for estimation of glomerular filtration rate.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the plasma creatinine concentration (PCr) and creatinine clearance (CCr) for estimation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Inulin clearance (Cin) was used as the reference standard for GFR. Thirty-nine concurrentCin andCCr studies provided data for comparingCin with the measuredCCr and with the calculatedCCr (calc-CCr). (Calc-CCr=k·L/PCr, where L=height in centimeters and k is the proportionality constant.) Thirty-one children 5.3–20.8 years of age, withCin ranging from 2.8 to 138.8 ml/min per 1.73 m2, participated in these studies at The Children's Mercy Hosptial. The measuredCCr was 16.7±10.3 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (P<0.001) greater than theCin, and the calc-CCr overestimatedCin by a mean of 31.6±20.8 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (P<0.001). Although there is good correlation betweenCin andCCr (r=0.96), andCin and calc-CCr (r=0.90), the 95% confidence intervals are quite broad. Hence, theCCr and the calc-CCr, derived using Schwartz values for k, consistently overestimate GFR. However, if the k value in the equation GFR=k·L/PCr is derived from k=Cin/L, rather than from k=CCr·PCr/L, a more accurate estimate of GFR may be obtained.
Improved design and control of proportional resonant controller for three-phase voltage source inverter

This paper presents an improved current control technique for a three-phase grid-connected DC/AC inverter using proportional resonant (PR) control. The proposed PR current control strategy is designed with tracking the reference current produced by an instantaneous power-based current reference generation method. In the controller the instantaneous power-based current reference generation method eliminates the delay in average power-based current reference generation methods, so a fast controller is required to maximize power delivery. The prosed PR controller also provides solutions for the drawbacks associated with conventional PI controllers that have slow dynamics and high distortion in the control feedback signal. For validation, simulation results of this grid-side control method are presented.
Color heterogeneity in visual search

Distractor color heterogeneity refers to a condition in which a target is presented among distractors of different chromaticities. In the present study, the amount distractor color heterogeneity was varied systematically to determine how efficiently the visual system processes displays composed of search elements of multiple colors. Distractor color heterogeneity was expressed by selecting distractor chromaticities from sectors of various angles in a cone-based normalized color space. The generalizability of the measurements was tested using two different visual search paradigms. An accuracy search task was used in which the search displays were presented as brief flashes and the dependent variable was search accuracy. A latency search task was used in which the display presentation time was under the participant's control and the dependent variable was reaction time. Compared to a homogeneous condition with distractors of a single color, distractor color heterogeneity had a deleterious effect on search performance in both paradigms. In normalized units, the measurements were similar across participants, target chromaticities, and tasks, but the same measurements expressed in non-normalized units showed clear and systematic individual differences. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2011
Thumb trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis: partial trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and interposition costochondral allograft.

Qualitative and quantitative outcomes were assessed clinically and radiographically in 41 patients (46 thumbs) with thumb basal joint arthritis limited to the trapeziometacarpal joint treated with hemiresection arthroplasty of the trapezium, flexor carpi radialis ligament reconstruction, and allograft costochondral interposition graft. Results of the validated Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire at a mean follow-up time of 42 months (range, 24-48 months) revealed that 90% of the patients had a high level of function with minimal symptoms. Important improvements in web space with increased palmar and radial abduction and grip and pinch strength measurements were observed. The trapeziometacarpal space had decreased 21% after surgery while trapeziometacarpal subluxation was 16% compared with 21% before surgery. There was an inverse correlation between the loss of trapezial height and subluxation and clinical outcome. The results of this study demonstrate that although the preoperative trapezial height was not maintained, the reconstructed thumbs remained stable, with little subluxation and improved clinical outcomes. (J Hand Surg 2000; 25A:61-76.
Optimization of cellular solids for energy absorption

Analysis of equations governing specific energy absorption for cellular solids indicates that silicate glass-based materials should outperform other cellular solids, including metallic foams. Quasi-static compression tests of silicate glass cellular materials fabricated by thermally bonding hollow spheres above the glass transition temperature (Tg) experimentally supports the analysis. Materials with some of the highest energy-absorbing capacities in the literature (14.8 MJ m−3 or 26.5 kJ kg−1) are reported. Fabrication techniques are generalizable to any amorphous hollow spheres with thermal stability above Tg.
The spectrum of skeletal changes associated with long-term administration of 13-cis-retinoic acid

The roentgenographic changes noted in 13 patients, who had been treated with long-term 13-cis-retinoic acid for inherited scaling disorders, are presented. These patients were aged 13–16 years and had received this therapy for 16–87 months (mean, 58 months). The most pronounced abnormality was osteophyte formation, particularly in the cervical spine. Other changes which were noted included ossification of the anterior longitudinal and atlanto-occipital ligaments, proliferative enthesopathies, diminished bone density, premature fusion of epiphyses, and modeling abnormalities. Six of the 13 patients were asymptomatic and the osseous manifestations of this therapy were identified only by roentgenographic evaluation.
Fecundity of Neomysis Mercedis Holmes in Lake Washington (Mysidacea)

[La fecondite du crustace mysidace Neomysis mercedis a ete etudiee sur une periode de 20 mois dans le lac Washington, Seattle. Une cohorte de femelles de grande taille portent au printemps et au debut de l'ete des embryons qui donnent une nouvelle cohorte de femelles de petite taille, lesquelles deviennent gravides a la fin de l'ete et en automne. Dans trois des quatre cohortes de femelles gravides etudiees le nombre des embryons croissait avec la taille de la femelle. Les differences dans la quantite de zooplancton disponible au cours des mois precedant la reproduction n'expliquent pas les differences d'une annee sur l'autre dans la pente de la droite de regression nombre d'embryons/taille de la femelle., La fecondite du crustace mysidace Neomysis mercedis a ete etudiee sur une periode de 20 mois dans le lac Washington, Seattle. Une cohorte de femelles de grande taille portent au printemps et au debut de l'ete des embryons qui donnent une nouvelle cohorte de femelles de petite taille, lesquelles deviennent gravides a la fin de l'ete et en automne. Dans trois des quatre cohortes de femelles gravides etudiees le nombre des embryons croissait avec la taille de la femelle. Les differences dans la quantite de zooplancton disponible au cours des mois precedant la reproduction n'expliquent pas les differences d'une annee sur l'autre dans la pente de la droite de regression nombre d'embryons/taille de la femelle.]
The case of Robert Herrlinger: a unique postwar controversy on the ethics of the anatomical use of bodies of the executed during National Socialism.

Summary Historical evidence shows that German anatomists used bodies of executed victims of the National Socialist (NS) regime for anatomical purposes. However, there has been little direct information on these anatomists’ thoughts and motivations, and a public discussion of their activities and ethics only started in the late 1980s. The present study documents a unique postwar controversy surrounding the promotion of the anatomist and medical historian Robert Herrlinger at the university of Wurzburg in the late 1950s. This intramural debate had originally been mentioned by Goetz Aly in 1987. Herrlinger's files record his career as a representative of the discipline of medical history at the university of Wurzburg from 1951 to 1960. He never worked there as an active anatomist. When the university senate applied for his appointment as full professor in 1957, the internist Ernst Wollheim, the pediatrician Joseph Stroder, and the psychiatrist Heinrich Scheller strongly opposed this move in a dissenting opinion based on Herrlinger's anatomical work on bodies of executed NS-victims. They claimed that he lacked the moral prerequisites required in a teacher of medical ethics. A highly controversial debate followed and was remarkable for addressing most of the questions of the ethical and political attitudes and responsibilities of anatomists in NS-Germany that are still being discussed today and are relevant for modern anatomy. It was also significant that Wollheim, Stroder and Scheller objected to Herrlinger in his role as a medical historian, not as an anatomist. The senate finally rejected the dissenting opinion and Herrlinger was promoted.