cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regional blood flow in transected rat spinal cord during hypothermia

Regional blood flow (RBF) increases in the spinal cord and sciatic nerve of acutely hypothermic rats. To determine whether cord transection affects this response, we measured RBF in rat spinal cord and sciatic nerve 2 h after cord transection at vertebrae T8 (n = 18 rats) and T11 (n = 18 rats) using [14C]butanol distribution. Nine in each group were normothermic controls. In T11 transection-hypothermia (25-27 degrees C rectal temperature), RBF increased in the three rostral cord segments by 28-40% (P less than 0.05); caudally, cord RBF was depressed in two segments (P less than 0.05), unchanged in the other; RBF fell in nerve (P less than 0.05). In T8 transection-hypothermia, RBF was unchanged in the two rostral cord segments; caudally, RBF was depressed in one cord segment (P less than 0.05) and unchanged in the others; RBF was unchanged in nerve. We conclude that RBF does not rise in caudal spinal cord segments or in sciatic nerve during hypothermia in rats with prior spinal cord transection.
The Algebraic Theory of Context-Free Languages*

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the several classes of sentence-generating devices that are closely related, in various ways, to the grammars of both natural languages and artificial languages of various kinds. By a language it simply mean a set of strings in some finite set V of symbols called the vocabulary of the language. By a grammar a set of rules that give a recursive enumeration of the strings belonging to the language. It can be said that the grammar generates these strings. The chapter discusses the aspect of the structural description of a sentence, namely, its subdivision into phrases belonging to various categories. A major concern of the general theory of natural languages is to define the class of possible strings; the class of possible grammars; the class of possible structural descriptions; a procedure for assigning structural descriptions to sentences, given a grammar; and to do all of this in such a way that the structural description assigned to a sentence by the grammar of a natural language will provide the basis for explaining how a speaker of this language would understand this sentence.
Reconstruction of Target Speed for the Guidance of Pursuit Eye Movements

We studied how object speed is reconstructed from the responses of motion-selective cells for the generation of a behavior that is tightly linked to the speed of visual motion. In theory, the speed of an object could be estimated either from the speed tuning of the active population of motion-selective cells or from the rate of displacement of activation across the cortical map of visual space. We measured the pursuit eye movements evoked by stimuli containing two conflicting motion components: a local component designed to excite motion-selective cells with a particular speed tuning and a displacement component designed to excite cells with a sequence of spatial receptive fields. Pursuit eye movements were driven primarily by the local-motion component and were affected to only a small degree by the rate of target displacement across visual space. Extracellular single-unit recordings using the same stimuli revealed that the responses of cells in the middle temporal visual area (MT) depended primarily on the local-motion component but were influenced by the displacement component to the same degree as were pursuit eye movements. We conclude that the initiation of pursuit is consistent with a reconstruction of target speed based on the speed tuning of the active population of MT cells.
Laparoscopic Clam Shell Partial Fundoplication Achieves Effective Reflux Control With Reduced Postoperative Dysphagia and Gas Bloating

Background We describe a novel laparoscopic "clam shell" partial fundoplication, incorporating a modified Toupet with an anterior fundic flap for the management of medically recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease. We hypothesize that this clam-shell–like mechanism allows a dynamic rather than rigid circumferential antireflux barrier allowing effective reflux control (compared with partial fundoplication) with reduced occurrence of postoperative dysphagia, gas bloating and vagal nerve injury (compared with Nissen fundoplication). Methods Between November 2002 and May 2006, 140 patients (82 female; mean age, 53 years) underwent this laparoscopic clam shell fundoplication procedure for medically recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease (n = 94) or large paraesophageal hernias (n = 46). Preoperative invasive studies (endoscopy, manometry, pH monitoring) and noninvasive studies (barium swallow and radionuclide gastroesophageal motility) revealed esophageal dysmotility in 26 patients. Routine barium swallow and radionuclide studies were performed 6 months postoperatively and then at yearly intervals. Results There was no mortality or conversions to open procedures. Mean operative time was 45 minutes; median hospital stay was 1 day (range, 1 to 4). Overall control of reflux symptoms was seen in 95% of patients. Postoperative gas bloating and significant dysphagia occurred in only 11% and 6% of patients, respectively. Three patients (2%) experienced postoperative complications (pneumonia, 2; pleural effusion requiring drainage, 1). Postoperative studies demonstrated reflux in 8 patients (5%) and the presence of small hiatal hernias in 5 patients (4%) during a mean follow-up 19 months (range, 7 to 42). Twenty five patients (17%) underwent postoperative esophageal dilation (median dilations, 1; range, 1 to 3) for dysphagia (11 of these patients had preoperative esophageal dysmotility). Five patients underwent repeat fundoplication (recurrent reflux, 2; gas bloating, 1; dysphagia, 2). Conclusions Clam shell near-circumferential fundoplication may be considered as an attractive alternative antireflux approach to Nissen fundoplication, particularly among patients at risk for postoperative dysphagia or gas bloating.
Magnetic monopoles and non-Abelian gauge theories

We review some properties of magnetic monopoles in non-Abelian gauge theories. Removal of Dirac string singularities and generalizations of the Wu-Yang solution that follow from this procedure are described. A discussion of the possible relevance of monopoles in strong interaction models and their role in quark confinement schemes is given. The magnetic monopole soliton discovered by 't Hooft and Polyakov, the first order formalism developed by Bogomolny, and extensions of these ideas are illustrated.
Design and implementation of fuzzy logic control systems with application to a ball balancing system

A fuzzy logic control (FLC) implementation of a ball balancing system (BBS) is presented in this paper. A ball balancing system is built. Fuzzification of the input and output is accomplished. A set of the rules among measurements and control output are established. A multi-region method is proposed to provide a nonlinear compensation output and obtain better control results. A comparison with LQR control is made.
9-Hydroxyazafluorenes and Their Use in Thrombin Inhibitors

Optimization of a previously reported thrombin inhibitor, 9-hydroxy-9-fluorenylcarbonyl-l-prolyl-trans-4-aminocyclohexylmethylamide (1), by replacing the aminocyclohexyl P1 group provided a new lead structure, 9-hydroxy-9-fluorenylcarbonyl-l-prolyl-2-aminomethyl-5-chlorobenzylamide (2), with improved potency (Ki = 0.49 nM for human thrombin, 2× APTT = 0.37 μM in human plasma) and pharmacokinetic properties (F = 39%, iv T1/2 = 13 h in dogs). An effective strategy for reducing plasma protein binding of 2 and improving efficacy in an in vivo thrombosis model in rats was to replace the lipophilic fluorenyl group in P3 with an azafluorenyl group. Systematic investigation of all possible azafluorenyl P3 isomers and azafluorenyl-N-oxide analogues of 2 led to the identification of an optimal compound, 3-aza-9-hydroxyfluoren-9(R)-ylcarbonyl-l-prolyl-2-aminomethyl-5-chlorobenzylamide (19b), with high potency (Ki = 0.40 nM, 2× APTT = 0.18 μM), excellent pharmacokinetic properties (F = 55%, T1/2 = 14 h in dogs), and ...
Ablation of the secondary heart field leads to tetralogy of Fallot and pulmonary atresia

Recent studies in chick and mouse embryos have identified a previously unrecognized secondary heart field (SHF), located in the ventral midline splanchnic mesenchyme, which provides additional myocardial cells to the outflow tract as the heart tube lengthens during cardiac looping. In order to further delineate the contribution of this secondary myocardium to outflow development, we labeled the right SHF of Hamburger-Hamilton (HH) stage 14 chick embryos via microinjection of DiI/rhodamine and followed the fluorescently labeled cells over a 96-h time period. These experiments confirmed the movement of the SHF into the outflow and its spiraling migration distally, with the right side of the SHF contributing to the left side of the outflow. In contrast, when the right SHF was labeled at HH18, the fluorescence was limited to the caudal wall of the lengthening aortic sac. We then injected a combination of DiI and neutral red dye, and ablated the SHF in HH14 or 18 chick embryos. Embryos were allowed to develop until day 9, and harvested for assessment of outflow alignment. Of the embryos ablated at HH14, 76% demonstrated cardiac defects including overriding aorta and pulmonary atresia, while none of the sham-operated controls were affected. In addition, the more severely affected embryos demonstrated coronary artery anomalies. The embryos ablated at HH18 also manifested coronary artery anomalies but maintained normal outflow alignment. Therefore, the myocardium added to the outflow by the SHF at earlier stages is required for the elongation and appropriate alignment of the outflow tract. However, at later stages, the SHF contributes to the smooth muscle component of the outflow vessels above the pulmonary and aortic valves which is important for the development of the coronary artery stems. This work suggests a role for the SHF in a subset of congenital heart defects that have overriding aorta and coronary artery anomalies, such as tetralogy of Fallot and double outlet right ventricle.
The restoration or preservation of sensation in the oral cavity following ablative surgery.

The importance of sensory feedback from the oral cavity is evaluated in the context of functional rehabilitation following ablative surgery using three techniques that restore or preserve sensation. Nerve grafts to restore the continuity of sensory nerves interrupted during ablative surgery, as well as the role of sensate flaps and the protection of palatal sensation following soft palate resection or total glossectomy, are discussed. (Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1995;121:607-612)
Cloning and characterization of cDNA encoding the rabbit tRNA-guanine transglycosylase 60-kilodalton subunit.

Eukaryotes synthesize queuosine (nucleoside Q) by the irreversible base-for-base exchange of queuine (Q base) for guanine at tRNA position 34, a reaction catalyzed by tRNA-guanine transglycosylase (TGT). The physiological role of Q remains unknown but the tRNA of tumor cells often is undermodified with respect to Q. Toward an understanding of the function of Q in normal and neoplastic cells we have isolated and characterized the cDNA for rabbit TGT. Rabbit erythrocyte TGT was reported previously to be a dimer of 60- and 43-kDa subunits (N. K. Howes and W. R. Farkas, 1978,J. Biol. Chem.253, 9082–9078). Here we present the cDNA sequence for the apparent 60-kDa subunit; it contains an open reading frame encoding a 493-residue protein. The rabbit TGT 60-kDa subunit shares significant sequence similarity with the deubiquitinating enzyme family (F. R. Papa and M. Hochstrasser, 1993,Nature366, 313–319), especially with sequence elements that include conserved Cys and His residues.
Solving nonlinear differential equations having periodic solutions

A technique is proposed that permits solving to within 15 or more decimal places, in explicit form, initial value problems for nonlinear ordinary differential equations having oscillatory periodic solutions. The technique is elementary and relies on employing a numerical solver to generate a solution having a high degree of precision, estimating the period of the numerical solution, and then estimating the Fourier series coefficients of the numerical solution. Using the computer algebra system Mathematica, its routine NDSolve
An historical study of the underlying assumptions for United States food guides from 1917 through the Basic Four Food Group Guide

Abstract Using an historical approach, we studied United States food guides with the intention of identifying the assumptions underlying their construction. In analyzing food guides up to and including the Basic Four Group Guide, we identified five categories of assumptions; these related to food and nutrient needs, economics, food habits and taste, the food supply, and nutrition education.
The not-quite non-atomic game: Homogeneous games on two measures

The space of continuous, piecewise smooth homogeneous functions of degree one in two variables can be generated by linear functions and by functions which are the minimum of two linear expressions. This permits a representation of the value for homogeneous games on two measures in terms of the values of additive games and of “shoe-like” games. We treat several examples in detail.
Antioxidants attenuate early up regulation of retinal vascular endothelial growth factor in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Aims/hypothesis: A strong positive correlation has been found between lipid peroxidation product and vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in the vitreous of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. To establish a causal relation between diabetes-associated enhanced oxidative stress and vascular endothelial growth factor production, we evaluated two antioxidants, dl-α-lipoic acid and taurine, on retinal vascular endothelial growth factor protein and mRNA expression and on parameters of oxidative stress in streptozotocin-diabetic rats.
Histologic grade and extent of resection are associated with survival in pediatric spinal cord ependymomas

Prognostic factors affecting outcomes in pediatric spinal cord ependymomas are limited. We sought to investigate potential associations between extent of resection and histologic grade on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify pediatric patients who underwent surgical resection for spinal cord ependymomas. Only manuscripts with clearly defined age, tumor grade, extent of resection, and clinical follow-up were included. A total of 80 patients were identified with a histologic distribution as follows: 36 % myxopapillary (grade I), 54 % classical (grade II), and 10 % anaplastic (grade III). There was no association between tumor grade and PFS. The only factor associated with improved PFS was gross total resection (GTR), which remained significant in a multivariate model (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.248, p = 0.022). Moreover, older age (HR = 0.818, p = 0.026), GTR (HR = 0.042, p = 0.013), and anaplastic grade (HR = 19.847, p = 0.008) demonstrated a significant association with OS in a multivariate model. Among pediatric patients with spinal cord ependymomas, PFS did not differ across histologic grades but was prolonged among patients who underwent GTR. Age, extent of resection, and tumor grade were all significantly associated with survival.
Cell-surface expression of CD4 reduces HIV-1 infectivity by blocking Env incorporation in a Nef- and Vpu-inhibitable manner

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection decreases the cell-surface expression of its cellular receptor, CD4, through the combined actions of Nef, Env and Vpu. Such functional convergence strongly suggests that CD4 downregulation is critical for optimal viral replication, yet the significance of this phenomenon has so far remained a puzzle. RESULTS: We show that high levels of CD4 on the surface of HIV-infected cells induce a dramatic reduction in the infectivity of released virions by the sequestering of the viral envelope by CD4. CD4 is able to accumulate in viral particles while at the same time blocking incorporation of Env into the virion. Nef and Vpu, through their ability to downregulate CD4, counteract this effect. CONCLUSIONS: The CD4-mediated 'envelope interference' described here probably explains the plurality of mechanisms developed by HIV to downregulate the cell-surface expression of its receptor.
Effects of optical beam size on diffusion length measured by the surface photo-voltage method

Abstract A study of the effect of optical beam size on the “effective diffusion length” as measured by the SPV technique has shown that use of a small beam size ( d L ) results in an apparent increase in diffusion length. Lateral diffusion of carriers from illuminated to unilluminated regions and subsequent recombination is believed to cause the observed effect. An experimental curve has been determined to apply an appropriate correction. Results of this study are used to determine a correlation between dislocation density and diffusion length in silicon ribbons.
JNK3 Signaling Pathway Activates Ceramide Synthase Leading to Mitochondrial Dysfunction

A cardinal feature of brain tissue injury in stroke is mitochondrial dysfunction leading to cell death, yet remarkably little is known about the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial injury in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR). Ceramide, a naturally occurring membrane sphingolipid, functions as an important second messenger in apoptosis signaling and is generated by de novo synthesis, sphingomyelin hydrolysis, or recycling of sphingolipids. In this study, cerebral IR-induced ceramide elevation resulted from ceramide biosynthesis rather than from hydrolysis of sphingomyelin. Investigation of intracellular sites of ceramide accumulation revealed the elevation of ceramide in mitochondria because of activation of mitochondrial ceramide synthase via post-translational mechanisms. Furthermore, ceramide accumulation appears to cause mitochondrial respiratory chain damage that could be mimicked by exogenously added natural ceramide to mitochondria. The effect of ceramide on mitochondria was somewhat specific; dihydroceramide, a structure closely related to ceramide, did not inflict damage. Stimulation of ceramide biosynthesis seems to be under control of JNK3 signaling: IR-induced ceramide generation and respiratory chain damage was abolished in mitochondria of JNK3-deficient mice, which exhibited reduced infarct volume after IR. These studies suggest that the hallmark of mitochondrial injury in cerebral IR, respiratory chain dysfunction, is caused by the accumulation of ceramide via stimulation of ceramide synthase activity in mitochondria, and that JNK3 has a pivotal role in regulation of ceramide biosynthesis in cerebral IR.
A new preparation of disulfur decafluoride

Abstract A facile and high yield preparation of disulfur decafluoride (S 2 F 10 ) by the photochemical reaction of pentafluorosulfur bromide (SF 5 Br) is described.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors and leiomyosarcomas.

Only recently has gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) been recognized as the most frequent GI mesenchymal neoplasm. Prior to the use of KIT staining, most GI stromal tumors were identified as leiomyosarcoma (LMS). For primary GIST, surgery remains the principal treatment and adjuvant imatinib may improve outcomes. Multimodality therapy may also be effective in patients with metastatic GIST. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology, clinicopathologic features, natural history, and clinical management of LMS and GIST. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:350–359. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Space radiation accelerator experiments – The role of neutrons and light ions

Abstract The importance of neutrons and light ions is considered when astronauts spend considerable time in thickly shielded regions of a spacecraft. This may be relevant for space missions both in and beyond low Earth orbit (LEO). In addition to heavy ion experiments at accelerators, it is suggested that an increased emphasis on experiments with lighter ions may be useful in reducing biological uncertainties.
Evolution to eosinophilic leukemia with a t(5:11) translocation in a patient with idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome

The idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) comprises a diverse group of diseases that may ultimately lead to multiorgan dysfunction and death. We present a case of a man who was followed for over 9 years with HES that underwent malignant transformation to acute leukemia with eosinophilic features. The patient's clinical acceleration was accompanied by the development of a malignant clone that was identified with banding techniques as 46,XY,t(5:11)(p15;q13). Electron microscopy reaffirmed findings reported in earlier cases of eosinophilic leukemia. At no time during his illness were cytotoxic drugs administered. In addition to delineating the natural evolution and cytostructural details of the case, we emphasize the role of cytogenetics in the predicting of malignant variants of the hypereosinophilic syndrome and in identifying eosinophilic leukemia.
Chlorpheniramine. II. Effect of the first-pass metabolism on the oral bioavailability in dogs

The pharmacokinetics of chlorpheniramine has been studied in six dogs by following the time course of plasma concentration of the drug after intravenous and oral administration of its maleate salt in solution form. After intravenous dosing the decline in chlorpheniramine plasma concentration was typically biexponential. The drug distributed rapidly and extensively to the extravascular tissues. The mean distribution phase halflife was 12.5 min, and the mean apparent volume of distribution, Vdβ, was 525% ofthe body weight in four dogs with normal hematocrits. The mean half-life of elimination was 1.7hr. The percent absolute availability following oral administration of the drug in the aqueous solution form was found to be dose dependent. At 100-mg dose, in six dogs, an average of 36% of the orally administered dose was found to be systemically available. At 50-mg dose, in one of the four dogs studied, no measurable plasma levels of chlorpheniramine were obtained, and the average bioavailability was only 9.4%. The average availability in four dogs at 200-mg dose was 39.4%. Even at 200-mg oral dose, the dogs did not show any signs of sedation and remained alert all through the experiment. Saturable first-pass gut and/or hepatic elimination has been postulated. The possible implications of these findings on the therapeutic effectiveness of the usual dosing regimen of chlorpheniramine in dogs are discussed.
A New Approach Using Homogenization of Cream in the Manufacture of Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese. 2. Microstructure, Fat Globule Distribution, and Free Oil

Abstract The microstructure, fat globule distribution, and free oil content of reduced fat Cheddar cheese were evaluated. Five replicates of skim milk, used to manufacture reduced fat Cheddar cheese, were standardized to 1.65% fat with cream homogenized at first and second stage pressures of 17.3 and 3.4 MPa, respectively. Four treatments were employed: homogenized cream, low moisture; control, low moisture; homogenized cream, high moisture; and control, high moisture. Fat and moisture contents of the cheese were 17.8 and 45.7%, 18.1 and 44.2%, 17.8 and 47.1%, and 17.7 and 46.0%, respectively. The microstructure of cheese made with homogenized cream consisted of a large number of small, evenly dispersed fat globules, and, in the control cheeses, the protein matrix was dispersed with fewer fat globules. The low percentage of free oil and free oil on a fat basis in cheese made with homogenized cream also suggested better emulsification of fat than in control cheeses. Homogenization of cream decreased fat globule size and helped improve the body and texture of reduced fat Cheddar cheese.
Nanofilter array chip for fast gel-free biomolecule separation

We report here a microfabricated nanofilter array chip that can size-fractionate sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-protein complexes and small DNA molecules based on the Ogston sieving mechanism. Nanofilter arrays with a gap size of 40–180 nm were fabricated and characterized. Complete separation of SDS-protein complexes and small DNA molecules were achieved in several minutes with a separation length of 5 mm. The fabrication strategy for the nanofilter array chip allows further increasing of the nanofilter density and decreasing of the nanofilter gap size, leading, in principle, to even faster separation.
The policy of exclusive franchising in cable television

Despite deregulation of cable television systems by a decade‐long string of federal actions, the typical municipality issues an exclusive cable franchise. This practice, which is now under serious legal challenge as an abuse of the First Amendment, is widely defended by local governments as efficient and necessary regulation of a “natural monopoly.” This essay critiques this proconsumer view of franchising, examines the economic, social, and political costs of regulation, and suggests an alternative explanation for monopolistic cable franchising by local governments.
Utilization of ruminally infused acetate or propionate and abomasally infused casein by lactating goats.

Abstract Four lactating Toggenberg goats (40 kg) were in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with the following treatments: 1) abomasally infused casein + ruminally infused propionate, 2) abomasally infused casein + ruminally infused acetate, 3) abomasally infused saline + ruminally infused propionate, 4) abomasally infused saline + ruminally infused acetate. An average of 1194 g/day of a 70% Kentucky bluegrass and 30% concentrate diet containing 14.4% crude protein was fed in hourly proportions. The diet plus infusates was formulated to meet energy requirements for maintenance and lactation. Experimental periods consisted of a 5-day preliminary period followed by a 5-day collection period during which feces, milk, and urine were collected. Digestibility of nitrogen and urinary nitrogen excretion were increased significantly by casein infusions. Retained nitrogen tended to be greater for casein treatments. Milk production was increased significantly by infusion of casein. Propionate infusions decreased and acetate infusions increased milk fat. Milk protein yield tended to be larger because of infusion of casein. Yields of milk fat and 4% fat-corrected milk were larger on casein-acetate than saline-acetate treatment, suggesting synergism between casein infused abomasally and acetate infused ruminally.
Electron diffraction from carbon nanotubes

The properties of a carbon nanotube are dependent on its atomic structure. The atomic structure of a carbon nanotube can be defined by specifying its chiral indices, (u, v), that specify its perimeter vector (chiral vector), with which the diameter and helicity are also determined. The fine electron beam available in a modern transmission electron microscope (TEM) offers a unique probe to reveal the atomic structure of individual nanotubes.This review covers two aspects related to the use of the electron probe in the TEM for the study of carbon nanotubes: (a) to understand the electron diffraction phenomena for inter-pretation of the electron diffraction patterns of carbon nanotubes and (b) to obtain the chiral indices, (u, v), of the carbon nanotubes from the electron diffraction patterns.For a nanotube of a given structure, the electron scattering amplitude from the carbon nanotube is first described analytically in closed form using the helical diffraction theory. From a known structure as given by the chiral indices (u, v), its electron diffraction pattern can be calculated and understood.The reverse problem, i.e. assignment of the chiral indices from an electron diffraction pattern of a carbon nanotube, is approached from the relationship between the electron scattering intensity distribution and the chiral indices (u, v). We show that electron diffraction patterns can provide an accurate and unambiguous assignment of the chiral indices of carbon nanotubes. The chiral indices (u, v) can be read indiscriminately with a high accuracy from the intensity distribution on the principal layer lines in an electron diffraction pattern.The symmetry properties of electron diffraction from carbon nanotubes and the electron diffraction from deformed carbon nanotubes are also discussed in detail. It is shown that 2mm symmetry is always preserved for single-walled carbon nanotubes, but it can break down for multiwalled carbon nanotubes under some special circumstances.Finally, determination of the handedness of carbon nanotubes using electron diffraction is reviewed and discussed with both theoretical analysis and experimental examples.
EFFECT OF MEDIUM-CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES (MCT) ON BILIARY EXCRETION OF CARNITINE IN THE NEONATAL PIG. † 1402

EFFECT OF MEDIUM-CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES (MCT) ON BILIARY EXCRETION OF CARNITINE IN THE NEONATAL PIG. † 1402
Remplacement percutané des valves sigmoïdiennes. Revue de la littérature

Surgery is no longer the only technique to replace a cardiac valve. New percutaneous procedures allow aortic or pulmonary valve implantation. Even if the feasibility of these procedures has been proved, cases reported are very rare and selected. This emergent technology is still at an early stage of development and new prospective studies will be necessary to evaluate these procedures correctly before concluding their clinical benefit. At this time surgery remains the gold standard in terms of cardiac valve replacement.
Synthesis of highly-active single-crystalline TiO2 nanorods and its application in environmental photocatalysis

Abstract Highly-active anatase TiO 2 nanorods have been successfully synthesized via a simple two-step method, hydrothermal treatment of anatase/rutile titanium dioxide nanoparticle powder in a composite-hydroxide eutectic system of 1:1 M KOH/NaOH, followed by acid post-treatment. The morphology and crystalline structure of the obtained nanorods were characterized using XRD, TEM, SEM/EDX and BET surface area analyzer. The obtained TiO 2 nanorods have a good crystallinity and a size distribution (about 4–16 nm); with the dimensions of 200–300 nm length and of 30–50 nm diameter. Compared with its precursor anatase/rutile TiO 2 nanoparticles and the titanate nanotubes, the pure anatase TiO 2 nanorods have a large specific surface area with a mesoporous structure. The photocatalytic performance of the prepared nanorods was tested in the degradation of the commercial Cibacrown Red (FN-R) textile dye, under UV irradiation. Single-crystalline anatase TiO 2 nanorods are more efficient for the dye removal.
The Great Plains IDEA Gerontology Program: An Online, Interinstitutional Graduate Degree

The Great-Plains IDEA Gerontology Program is a graduate program developed and implemented by the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA). The Great Plains IDEA (Alliance) originated as a consortium of Colleges of Human Sciences ranging across the central United States. This Alliance's accomplishments have included faculty development in online distance education, development of cooperative approaches to graduate education among faculty and institutions, and development of quality graduate programming. In this article, the process of developing a national model for collaboration is discussed, the barriers that the program overcame are highlighted, and the lessons learned through implementing a graduate program in gerontology are presented. The outcomes of the assessment conducted across seven states to determine interest in an online gerontology graduate program and the findings from program evaluation efforts are presented.
Estimation of the kinetic constants for binding of epinephrine to β-adrenergic receptors of the S49 cell

Abstract The dissociation constant (Kd) for the binding of epinephrine to β-adrenergic receptors of the S49 cell is 2 μM, which is the ratio of the rate constants for dissociation (koff) and association (kon), Kd = koff/kon. Although the Kd is known by direct measurement, the individual rate constants kon an koff are unknown since they are both too large to be measured by conventional experimental methods. We present here an analysis in which a minimum value for these constants is calculated. The analysis uses a “transiently private receptor” model for coupling of receptors to G protein/adenylate cyclase that is based on the limits prescribed by the known empirical relationship between the β-adrenergic receptor occupancy by epinephrine (characterized by Kd) and their coupling to adenylate cyclase (characterized by ec 50 = 10 nM ) as a function of epinephrine concentration. The model makes only the assumption (based on previous evidence) that a receptor cannot activate more than one cyclase during the course of one cycle of binding and unbinding of an epinephrine molecule. In such a model, and with such a large separation between the Kd and the ec 50, the rate of G protein/adenylate cyclase activation by epinephrine-bound receptors can be related to the frequency of receptor binding at low concentrations of epinephrine, from which minimum values for the rate constant for association can be derived. This gives the estimates kon > 108/M/min and koff > 280/min at 37°. The on-rate constant is comparable to the on-rate constants that have been measured for other β-adrenergic receptor ligands. This result supports the transiently private receptor coupling model as an explanation for the previously observed contribution of the frequency of epinephrine binding to the rate of activation of adenylate cyclase in the S49 cell.
Amino terminus and the first four membrane-spanning segments of the Arabidopsis K+ channel KAT1 confer inward-rectification property of plant-animal chimeric channels.

Abstract The Arabidopsis hyperpolarization-activated (inward-rectifying) K channel KAT1 is structurally more similar to animal depolarization-activated (outward-rectifying) K channels than to animal hyperpolarization-activated K channels. To gain insight into the structural basis for the opposite voltage dependences of plant inward-rectifying and animal outward-rectifying K channels, we constructed recombinant chimeric channels between the hyperpolarization-activated K channel KAT1 and a Xenopus depolarization-activated K channel. We report here that two of the chimeric constructs, which contain the first third of the KAT1 sequence, including the first four membrane-spanning segments (S1-S4) and the linker sequence between the fourth and fifth membrane-spanning segments, express functional channels that retain activation by hyperpolarization, but not depolarization. These two chimeric channels are no longer selective for K. The chimeras are selective for cations over anions and are permeable to Ca. Therefore, unlike animal hyperpolarizationactivated K channels, in which the carboxyl terminus is important for inward rectification induced by Mg and polyamine block, the plant KAT1 channel has its major determinants for inward rectification in the amino-terminal region, which ends at the end of the S4-S5 linker.
Release of Isolated Single Kinesin Molecules from Microtubules

Previous studies on the motor enzyme kinesin suggesting that the enzyme molecule tightly binds to a microtubule by only one of its two mechanochemical head domains were performed with multiple kinesin molecules on each microtubule, raising the possibility that interactions between adjacent bound molecules may interfere with the binding of the second head. To characterize the microtubule-bound state of isolated single kinesin molecules, we have measured the rates of nucleotide-induced dissociation of the complex between microtubules and bead-labeled single molecules of the dimeric kinesin derivative K448-BIO using novel single-molecule kinetic methods. Complex dissociation by <2 μM ADP displays an apparent second-order rate constant of 1.2 × 104 M-1 s-1. The data suggest that only one of the two heads is bound to the microtubule in the absence of ATP, that binding of a single ADP to the complex is sufficient to induce dissociation, and that even lengthy exposure of kinesin to the microtubule fails to produ...
Experimental hexamitiasis in the oyster Crassostrea virginica

Abstract In vitro growth characteristics of Hexamita sp. and course of experimental hexamitiasis initiated in oysters via the oral and intracardial route were used in an attempt to analyze the controversial issue of whether Hexamita is an oyster pathogen. In culture, the growth of Hexamita is temperature-dependent; the flagellate multiplies 1000 times at 6° and 12°C in 15 and 6 days, respectively. At 18° and 25° its growth is limited to 100 times to 10 times in 3 to 4 days. When 3.2 × 10 6 Hexamita were injected into the oyster intracardially at 6°C, the flagellates increased in numbers after a lag period of 8 days and all oysters died within 18 days. After injection of 4.0 × 10 5 Hexamita per oyster at 12°C 9 of 10 died within 20 days. In the one survivor, the count of Hexamita in heart blood decreased steadily after the crisis on the 8th day as the oyster overcame the infection. When the dosage injected was reduced to 1.0 × 10 3 Hexamita per oyster and the oysters were kept at 12°C, half survived. At 18°C when 8.8 × 10 5 Hexamita were inoculated into the oyster, not even a patent infection was observed in the 2-week period. No conclusive results were obtained from a series of experiments designed to ascetain whether Hexamita sp. introduced into the oyster via the oral route was able to breach the epithelial barrier. However, implications are discussed. The data demonstrate conclusively that physiological conditions of the oyster, the reproductive capacity and the pathogenicity of the microorganism, and the proper manipulation of experimental conditions (e.g., ambient temperature, size of inoculum, route of entry, etc.) can alter the course of infection.
Geomorphic and environmental effects of instream gravel mining

Abstract Instream gravel mining involves the mechanical removal of gravel and sand directly from the active channel of rivers and streams. Active channel deposits are desirable as construction aggregate because they are typically durable (weak materials having been eliminated in river transport), well-sorted, and frequently located near markets or on transportation routes. Instream gravel mining commonly causes incision of the channel bed, which can propagate upstream and downstream for kilometers. As a result, bridges and other structures may be undermined, spawning gravels lost and alluvial water tables lowered. In analyzing the effects of instream gravel mining, a sediment budget analysis sheds light on the relative magnitude of gravel supply, transport and extraction. Computer models of sediment transport are simplifications of complex natural processes; they can be useful components of a sediment budget analysis but should not be relied upon alone. A historical analysis of channel change and sediment supply is needed to understand the underlying processes responsible for present conditions. While instream gravel mining can be a useful tool in flood control and river stabilization in aggrading rivers, most rivers in the developed world (certainly the vast majority below reservoirs) are not aggrading and are more prone to incision-related effects of instream gravel mining.
Effect of Mooring Line Arrangement on the Dynamics of Spread Mooring Systems

A design methodology is formulated to reveal the dependence of nonlinear slow motion dynamics of Spread Mooring Systems (SMS) on mooring line arrangement. For a given SMS configuration, catastrophe sets are developed in the parametric design space showing the dependence of stability boundaries and singularities of bifurcations on design variables. This approach eliminates the need for nonlinear simulations. For general SMS design, however, the designer relies on experience rather than scientific understanding of SMS nonlinear dynamics, due to the high number of design variables. Several numerical applications are used to demonstrate counterintuitive ways of improving SMS dynamics. The SMS design methodology formulated in this paper aims at providing fundamental understanding of the effects of mooring line arrangement and pretension on SMS horizontal plane dynamics. Thus, the first guidelines are developed to reduce trial and error in SMS design. The methodology is illustrated by comparing catastrophe sets for various SMS configurations with up to three mooring lines. Numerous examples for a barge and a tanker SMS which exhibit qualitatively different nonlinear dynamic behaviour are provided.
EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE ON GROWTH RATE OF CULTURED MAMMALIAN CELLS (L5178Y)

L5178Y cells were cultured in vitro at various temperatures. When the cells were in the exponential growth phase, the cells were in the "steady state of growth," i.e., the fraction of cells in the G1, S, G2, and M stages and the durations of each stage were constant. The life cycle analysis of the cells in the steady state of growth demonstrated that the G1 stage and the S stage were affected the most by variation of temperature, and suggested that these two stages have considerable influence on the growth rate of the L5178Y cells. The calculated activation energies were positive in each stage of the life cycle, whereas the entropies of activation were negative throughout. The possible significance of these findings in our search for the regulatory mechanisms of cell growth is discussed.
Specification of nonverbal behaviors for clinical assessment

Nine categories of nonverbal behavior (extremity movements, self-manipulations, facial expression, posture, orienting, gestures, voice quality/tone, speech rate/pressure, and sense of timing) were tested in a standardized role play situation of social skills. Each category was judged using a new “midi-level” system of assessment which permitted specification of component behaviors but allowed observers to make single ratings at the ends of videotaped episodes. The midi-level measurements were as reliable and practical as more traditional global measures of social skill and social anxiety. Midis were superior to globals (i.e., single overall ratings of skill and anxiety) in terms of predicting physiological indices of social anxiety. Voice quality/tone and sense of timing appeared to be the best predictors of criterion social skill measures and self-manipulations, extremity movements, and gestures had the highest weights in predicting criterion measures of social anxiety.
Very High Serum CA 19-9 Levels: A Contraindication to Pancreaticoduodenectomy?

Aim To assess the outcome of patients with resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PA) associated with high serum CA 19-9 levels.
Inhibition of intracellular multiplication of human strains of Chlamydia trachomatis by nitric oxide.

Abstract It was previously shown that murine T cell clones could inhibit the intracellular growth of the mouse strain of Chlamydia trachomatis by cytokine-mediated induction of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) system in epithelial cells, an effect enhanced by direct epithelial-T cell interaction via specific adhesion molecules. These findings and other recent reports showing that human mucosal epithelial cells secrete nitric oxide (NO) via iNOS expression would suggest that mucosal epithelial-derived NO may be involved in mucosal defense against Chlamydia and other pathogens that infect epithelial cells. As an initial approach to investigating whether NO contributes to chlamydial control in humans, the present studies evaluated the susceptibility of human isolates of C. trachomatis to NO delivered by chemical donors or via induction of the epithelial iNOS system by a cytokine-secreting T cell clone. It was found that a chlamydial-specific, cytokine-secreting, murine T lymphocyte clone (clone 2.14-0) could inhibit the intraepithelial growth of human strains of Chlamydia trachomatis (serovar E and H, and Lymphogranuloma venerum type L2) via the iNOS pathway when the clone was co-cultured with chlamydial-infected epithelial cells. Furthermore, treatment of infected epithelial cells with 50 μM of the NO donor, S-nitroso-L-glutathione, resulted in significant inhibition (approximately 70%) of chlamydial multiplication, while the NO scavenger, myoglobin plus ascorbate, could reverse the effect, demonstrating that NO could directly inhibit human strains of Chlamydia. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that the IFN-γ-inducible iNOS pathway can contribute to chlamydial control in humans.
A Controversial Treatise — Baillet's De la Dévotion à la Sainte Vierge

ADRIEN BAILLET, an erudite priest who was librarian and preceptor in the house of the distinguished magistrate ChretienFranqois de Lamoignon from I68o till the time of his death in 1706, was one of the most prolific writers of his time. A Cartesian and a Jansenist, the author of substantial biographies and histories, voluminous critical compendiums on both secular and theological subjects, and provocative religious treatises, and the center of some of the stormiest quarrels of the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, he is today unknown to nearly everyone except specialists in his period. Many of the latter, moreover, are acquainted only with his massive biography of Descartes (1691) and his nine volume compendium Jugemens des scavans (1684-1686), an incomplete composition calculated to evaluate the principal works composed in all fields of human endeavor since earliest times as well as the judgments of their critics. The present study concerns one of the most obscure and at the same time most explosive of Baillet's works, his treatise on the cult of the Virgin Mary. During the month of December I692 Baillet heard Pere Bourdaloue, the celebrated Jesuit orator, deliver a sermon on the conception of the Virgin. Mme. de Lamoignon, whom he had accompanied to the service, asked her husband's librarian to comment on what they had heard. Baillet declined to discuss so important a subject without first giving it his serious consideration, but promised her an answer in writing. Baillet was as good as his word. During the next weeks he composed a brief treatise De La D6votion a la sainte Vierge et du culte qui lui est dui, which he dedicated to Mme. de Lamoignon. Completed by February I693, it was published in April of the same year.'
Implementation of Occupational Health Service Improvements through Application of Total Quality Management Processes

The occupational health services department for a manufacturing division of a high-technology firm was redesigned from an outsourced model, in which most services were provided by an outside clinic vendor, to an in-house service model, in which services were provided by an on-site nurse practitioner. The redesign and implementation, accomplished by a cross-functional team using Total Quality Management processes, resulted in a comprehensive occupational health services department that realized significant cost reduction, increased compliance with regulatory and company requirements, and improved employee satisfaction. Implications of this project for occupational health nurses are discussed.