cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ca2+ agonists on cytosolic Ca2+ in isolated hepatocytes and on bile secretion in the isolated perfused rat liver

The effects of increases in cytosolic Ca2+ on hepatocyte bile secretion are unknown. A number of agents that alter levels of cytosolic Ca2+ in the hepatocyte also produce hepatic vasoconstriction and activate protein kinase C, which complicates interpretations of their effects on bile secretion. To better understand the role of cytosolic Ca2+ in bile secretion, we examined the effect of the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 (0.1 mumol/L), the Ca2+ agonist vasopressin (10 nmol/L) and the Ca(2+)-mobilizing agent, 2,5-di(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (25 mumol/L) on cytosolic Ca2+ in isolated hepatocytes and on bile flow in the isolated perfused rat liver, using vasodilators and inhibitors of protein kinase C and Ca2+ influx. Single-pass perfused livers were used, and cytosolic Ca2+ was measured by luminescent photometry in isolated hepatocytes loaded with the Ca(2+)-sensitive photoprotein aequorin. After A23187 perfusion, a sustained 74% +/- 10% (mean +/- S.D.) decrease in bile flow and a sustained 271% +/- 50% increase in perfusion pressure was observed. Simultaneous pretreatment with the vasodilator papaverine (25 mumol/L) and the protein kinase C inhibitor H-7 (50 mumol/L) abolished the pressure increase but not the decrease in bile flow, whereas pretreatment with Ni2+ (25 mumol/L) to block the influx of extracellular Ca2+ markedly reduced both the pressure increase and the decrease in bile flow. Vasopressin produced a transient (mean = 6 min) 75% +/- 4% decrease in bile flow and a sustained 7% +/- 4% increase in perfusion pressure. Pretreatment with H-7 alone corrected the vasopressin-induced pressure increase but also failed to eliminate the decrease in bile flow, whereas pretreatment with Ni2+ decreased the magnitude of the decrease by two-thirds without affecting the increase in perfusion pressure, 2,5'-di(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone produced a transient 65% +/- 20% decrease in bile flow and a transient 56% +/- 15% increase in perfusion pressure. In isolated hepatocytes, bromo-A23187, the nonfluorescent form of the ionophore, produced a sustained 56% +/- 32% increase in the cytosolic Ca2+ signal, whereas vasopressin resulted in a transient 241% +/- 75% increase and 2,5-di(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone resulted in a sustained 149% +/- 66% increase. The ionophore-induced increase in Ca2+ was abolished completely by pretreatment of the hepatocytes with Ni2+, whereas the vasopressin-induced increase was reduced by 38%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Phase relations of a simulated lunar basalt as a function of oxygen fugacity, and their bearing on the petrogenesis of the Apollo 11 basalts

Abstract A glass of Apollo 11 basalt composition crystallizing at 1 atm at low ƒ 0 2 showed the following crystallization sequence; ferropseudobrookite at 1210°C, olivine at 1200°C, ilmenite and plagioclase at 1140°C, clinopyroxene at 1113°C. Ferropseudobrookite and olivine have a reaction relation to the melt. This sequence agrees with that assumed on textural grounds for some Apollo 11 basalts. It also indicates that the Apollo 11 basalts cannot have been modified by low-pressure fractionation.
Health Insurance Regain after a Spell of Uninsurance: A Longitudinal Comparison of Youth with and without Disabilities Transitioning into Adulthood

Abstract Purpose To examine insurance regain among youth with no, nonsevere, and severe disabilities. Methods The data source for this study was the Survey of Income and Program Participation 2001. We examined insurance regain among youth with no, nonsevere, and severe disabilities between the ages of 15 and 25 using a longitudinal design. Kaplan-Meier survival functions provided estimates of uninsurance spell durations measured in waves, or 4-month intervals. We conducted a discrete time survival analysis adjusting for personal characteristics. Results This study includes 1,310 youth who entered the SIPP with insurance and became uninsured. 985 youth (75%) regained insurance. Based on SIPP waves, median duration of uninsurance was two waves (between 5 and 8 months) for youth with severe disabilities and three waves (between 9 and 12 months) for youth with nonsevere disability. Youth with nonsevere disabilities had decreased odds of regaining health insurance compared to youth without disabilities (odds ratio .73; 95% confidence interval: .57, .92; p =.01). Conclusions Youth with severe disabilities and youth without disabilities had similar odds of and durations to insurance regain. In contrast, youth with nonsevere disabilities had lower odds of regaining insurance and experienced longer durations of uninsurance compared to peers without disabilities. We recommend additional research into the implications of Medicaid eligibility pathways and employment barriers for youth with nonsevere disabilities.
On the dynamic non-equivalence of tariffs and quotas in the monetary model of the balance of payments: Comment

Abstract This comment uses a simple monetary model of the balance of payments to demonstrate that adjustment speed is higher under a tariff than under the quota which is equivalent to it in longrun equilibrium if and only if the tariff is less than the maximum expenditure tariff. This result contradicts the conclusion of Blejer and Hillman that adjustment under the tariff is always faster.
The effects of the epidermis on the collagenous basement lamella of Anuran larval skin.

Abstract The influence of the epidermis on wound healing in anuran tadpole skin and on the addition of protein and polysaccharide to the basement lamella of the skin was examined. Fragments of wounded skin that had healed in situ for 10 days were removed and cultured in vitro with or without epidermis. At the end of the culture period, the amount of healing was assessed electron microscopically by determining the number of orthogonal plies of collagen fibrils laid down in the wound area. In skin fragments with their epidermis intact, approximately 7 plies formed during the culture period. No plies were developed during this period in skin from which epidermis had been stripped. It was concluded that the continuous presence of epidermis is necessary for this aspect of wound healing to occur; it is not sufficient for epidermis to be present only in the initial stages. Two additional studies were performed: (1) experiments in which skin fragments with and without epidermis were incubated in radioactive proline, after which amounts of lamellar protein, and proline and hydroxyproline were measured; and (2) recombination experiments in which epidermis labeled with radioactive proline or glucosamine was cultured with unlabeled dermal cells and lamella in a reconstituted skin piece, after which the amount of label in the lamella was measured. In the experiments where skin was incubated in proline- 14 C, the level of radioactivity in the lamella of intact skin was about twice that of skin lacking epidermis. The ratio of proline to hydroxyproline was substantially the same in such lamella (ca 1.9). In recombination experiments the epidermis added little protein to the lamella, but did add polysaccharide. Apparently the dermal cells add both collagen and noncollagen protein to the lamella; the latter may turn over rapidly.
Role models in academic radiology: current status and pathways to improvement.

Purpose The aim of this study was to determine residents' attitudes about the influence and characteristics of academic radiology role models. Method A Web-based survey was sent to the 35 residents in the 2007 Siemens AUR Radiology Resident Academic Development (SARRAD) program and to all other residents at their institutions. The survey contained questions regarding experiences with and desirable characteristics of role models, as well as the influence of role models in career decisions. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Mann-Whitney tests were used to assess associations between responses and expressed career choice. Results Thirty of 35 SARRAD participants (85%) plus 103 non-SARRAD participants responded. Only 46% felt that there were enough role models at their institutions and 56% that there were sufficient role models in academic radiology. More than two-thirds of residents surveyed stated that they would be more likely to stay in academic radiology if there were more role models. The most desired characteristics of role models included availability, enthusiasm, integrity, and a positive attitude toward residents. Residents stating that they would choose academic careers were more likely to be research track ( P = .0001), have more publications ( P = .01), be less concerned with salary ( P = .003), and be less concerned about politics ( P = .047). Level of debt was not different between residents planning to choose academic careers and those with other career plans ( P = .80). Conclusion Role models in academic radiology play an important role in influencing residents to stay in academic radiology. Increasing the number of role models in academic radiology with characteristics valued by residents will encourage residents to stay in academic medicine.
A QUANTITATIVE ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDY OF THE PLEOMORPHIC ADENOMA (MIXED TUMOR) OF HUMAN MINOR SALIVARY GLANDS

A quantitative ultrastructural comparison has been made of the cells of seven pleomorphic adenomas and of five normal minor salivary glands. Criteria were adopted for the recognition of different cell types and calibration between observers was carried out. The relative volumes of cells in both normal and tumor material were obtained by the stereologic method of point counting. In normal glands, duct cells occupied 2.696, myoepithelial cells 6.2%, acinar cells 77.896, and other tissue elements 13.4% of tissue volume. By contrast, in the pleomorphic adenomas, duct cells occupied 61.596, myoepithelial cells 4.996, acinar cells 4.4%, and other tissue elements 29.2%. The differences between percentage volumes of cell types in tumor and normal gland were highly significant (p < 0.001). The higher proportion by volume of cells of duct origin in the pleomorphic adenomas than in normal glands indicates that these cells, rather than myoepithelial cells, are the major cells of the tumor in these glands. Cancer 34~1631-1641, 1974.
Chemoembolization of hepatic malignancy

Treatment of primary and secondary hepatic malignancies with transarterial chemoembolization represents an essential component of interventional oncology. This article discusses patient selection, procedure technique, results, and complications associated with transarterial chemoembolization.
Effect of moisture content on ethylene glycol retention by clay minerals

Abstract For the accurate determination of ethylene glycol retention by soil minerals, precision in moisture removal is extremely important. One percent decrease in moisture appears to increase the ethylene glycol retention by 10 to 12 mg/g of sample. Drying samples over P2O5 is tedious and requires considerable care. An alternate method that is precise and easy is presented. By this method, an air-dried Ca-saturated subsample suspected of containing irreversibly dehydrating clays is saturated and equilibrated with ethylene glycol. The retention values are determined on a moisture-free weight basis calculated from a duplicate subsample dried in an oven at 105°C. Ethylene glycol retention of samples that do not contain irreversibly dehydrating clays is determined directly by saturation and equilibration of 105°C oven-dried samples.
A high-resolution monochromator for inelastic nuclear resonant scattering experiments using

Abstract We report a silicon crystal monochromator with an angular acceptance of 14.1 μrad and an energy bandwidth of 3.6 meV at 23.880 keV X-ray energy – an energy resolution δE / E of 1.5×10 −7 . In combination with an undulator source, the monochromator is used to measure the partial phonon density of states of Sn in 119 SnO 2 by the method of inelastic nuclear resonant scattering using the 23.880 keV nuclear transition of 119 Sn .
Binocular combination of contrast signals from orthogonal orientation channels

In a series of psychophysical experiments, observers compared the apparent contrast of a dichoptic stimulus (contrast edges of orthogonal orientations in the two eyes) and a monocular stimulus ( a pie pattern in one eye and a blank field in the other eye). When the contrast of the dichoptic stimulus was low (2-3%) the two orthogonal edges were perceived as a stable pie pattern and its apparent contrast matched with that of a monocular pie pattern whose contrast was twice the contrast of the dichoptic stimulus. The dichoptic contrast gain (monocular/dichoptic contrast ratio) decreased with increasing dichoptic contrast. Although the observers showed an inability to discriminate the apparent contrasts of the dichoptic and the monocular pie patterns, they were able to tell which stimulus was the dichoptic one in a forced choice paradigm. A binocular contrast preservation model was proposed for binocular combination of contrast signals from orthogonal orientation channels.
‘A Theatre of Disputes’: The East India Company Election of 1764 as the Founding of British India

The East India Company stockholders' election of its Court of Directors for the upcoming year in 1764 crystallised the basic factional and ideological divisions that characterised the ‘India Question’ in the crucial first decade and a half of the post-Plassey era. Scarcely noted by historians, who have failed to seriously address the political constitution of the empire in India, the Company election of 1764 arguably merits pride of place over other near contemporaneous events, such as the 1764 Battle of Buxar or the 1765 acceptance by the Company of the diwani, the right to collect the revenues of Bengal, as the true founding of the British Empire in India. Certainly neither the Battle of Buxar (and the subsequent conquest Awadh) nor the acceptance of the diwani can be fully understood apart from a recognition of the very different politics behind each. Recognising the importance of the 1764 Company election in this sense involves understanding that politics emanating from Britain, and not simply the sub...
Significantly Enhanced Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Dispersion Stability in Mixed Solvent Systems

Research on the dispersion of pristine single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is mostly focused on measuring the dispersion limit in various organic solvents, yet little attention has been paid to the dispersion stability of SWCNTs in viable organic solvents. We have studied SWCNT dispersion stability for mixtures of the organic solvents N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP). Our results show that mixing DMF and NMP can yield dispersion stabilities that are 60–115% greater than the pure solvents with a 50/50 mixture (v/v). SWCNT aggregation is described by a physical model that combines the Maxwell–Boltzmann energy distribution function and DLVO theory for quantitative comparison between solvent systems.
The Ultraviolet Spectrum of a Face-on Shock Wave in the Vela Supernova Remnant

Ultraviolet emission lines in supernova remnants (SNRs) provide important clues to the shock velocities, densities, grain destruction, and thermal structure of the cooling regions in these objects. However, several of the brightest ultraviolet emission lines seen in SNRs, including C II ?1335, C IV ?1550, and O VI ?1034, are resonance lines whose brightnesses will be reduced by scattering if the column density along the line of sight is sufficiently large. Scattering is particularly important in the bright filaments of SNRs because these shock waves are seen nearly edge-on. To assess the importance of resonant scattering in the UV, we have taken advantage of the enormous diffuse source sensitivity of the Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope to observe the UV emission from a face-on shock in the Vela supernova remnant. The position chosen is seen in projection near the center of the remnant and corresponds to a bright soft X-ray region. A 165 km s-1 shock with a 30% carbon depletion matches most of the line intensities, but the weakness of the N V ?1240 line may suggest a departure from the simple shock models. We compare the spectrum of the face-on shock to that of a nearby bright filament and find some differences in shock velocity as well as in resonance-line scattering. We also derive the ram pressure of the shock from Fabry-Perot observations, and find that it greatly exceeds the thermal pressure derived from the [S II] doublet. This result strongly suggests pressure support by magnetic fields or cosmic rays.
A comparative study of swingers and nonswingers: Attitudes and beliefs

Using cognitive dissonance theory it was hypothesized that swingers would be more liberal on items which directly relate to sex and sexual “deviance.” As the issues become less relevant to sex, however, this liberalism was hypothesized to disappear. Swingers and nonswingers completed a questionnaire containing groups of items ranging from directly relevant to totally irrelevant to sex. Results indicated general support for the hypotheses, with the biggest differences between the two groups occurring on the sexual items (premarital sex, birth control, abortion, homosexuality, pornography, sex on TV, and satisfaction with own sex life). Differences also appeared on issues related to marriage and the family (divorce, interracial marriage, and sex) and religion. Three questions relevant to women's roles produced contradictory results. Eleven items concerning political and economic issues revealed four significant differences. Here, swingers were more liberal on the legalization of marijuana but more conservative on capital punishment, welfare, and controlling business. Finally, a breakdown on all the items by sex revealed the females to be more satisfied with their friends and their sex life, and the males to be more in favor of the women staying at home.
History and future of animal welfare science.

It is suggested that Mench give credit to the books that started the farm animal welfare movement--Harrison's (1964) Animal Machines and, arriving 1 year later, Huxley's (1965) Brave New Victuals. Huxley covered the use of chemicals on the land and "factory fanning," a phrase coined by Harrison. They both discussed the rearing of animals indoors in huge numbers, closely confined, artificially lit, mechanically supplied with food, and treated with drugs and hormones to prevent disease and to speed growth. Are intensive methods necessarily cruel to animals? Are agricultural and industrial chemical residues contaminating the environment? What is the influence of new methods on the quality of food and what are the effects on the human organism? These were relevant questions back then, and almost 30 years later Harrison (1988, 1993) wondered how much real progress has been made in answering them.
The correlation and level of agreement between end-tidal and blood gas pCO2 in children with respiratory distress: a retrospective analysis

To investigate the correlation and level of agreement between end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) and blood gas pCO2 in non-intubated children with moderate to severe respiratory distress. Retrospective study of patients admitted to an intermediate care unit (InCU) at a tertiary care center over a 20-month period with moderate to severe respiratory distress secondary to asthma, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia. Patients with venous pCO2 (vpCO2) and EtCO2 measurements within 10 minutes of each other were eligible for inclusion. Patients with cardiac disease, chronic pulmonary disease, poor tissue perfusion, or metabolic abnormalities were excluded. Eighty EtCO2-vpCO2 paired values were available from 62 patients. The mean ± SD for EtCO2 and vpCO2 was 35.7 ± 10.1 mmHg and 39.4 ± 10.9 mmHg respectively. EtCO2 and vpCO2 values were highly correlated (r = 0.90, p < 0.0001). The correlations for asthma, bronchiolitis and pneumonia were 0.74 (p < 0.0001), 0.83 (p = 0.0002) and 0.98 (p < 0.0001) respectively. The mean bias ± SD between EtCO2 and vpCO2 was -3.68 ± 4.70 mmHg. The 95% level of agreement ranged from -12.88 to +5.53 mmHg. EtCO2 was found to be more accurate when vpCO2 was 35 mmHg or lower. EtCO2 is correlated highly with vpCO2 in non-intubated pediatric patients with moderate to severe respiratory distress across respiratory illnesses. Although the level of agreement between the two methods precludes the overall replacement of blood gas evaluation, EtCO2 monitoring remains a useful, continuous, non-invasive measure in the management of non-intubated children with moderate to severe respiratory distress.
Growth and differentiation of wild type amoebae of Physarum polycephalum in liquid culture

A method for growing wild type amoebal strains of Physarum polycephalum in two-membered liquid culture is presented. The medium is a simple buffered salts solution. We found that a minimal level of divalent cation was required for growth. All amoebal strains tried to date have grown under our conditions in stationary culture. Growth under gyratory conditions was only successful at 60 rpm or less and consistent growth required a period of adaptation over several transfers. Differentiation of two apogamic strains, CL and CH1, were compared. Contrary to the results seen on agar plates, the time of onset for the first committed amoebae was identical for both strains in liquid culture. Attempts to demonstrate mating between two genetically compatible amoebal strains grown together in liquid culture were not successful.
15-Substituted Lanosterols: Post-transcriptional Suppressors of 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase

Abstract The oxolanosterol oxime 3β-hydroxylanost-7-en-15-one 15-oxime and the structurally similar 3β-hydroxylanost-7-en-15-one are dual-action inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis which cause both inhibition of lanesterol 14α-methyl demethylase and suppression of the rate-limiting enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR). This report examines the mechanism by which these compounds lower HMGR protein levels in Chinese hamster ovary fibroblasts. Data are presented which suggest that both sterols reduce the translational efficiency of the HMGR mRNA as well as increase the rate of enzyme degradation. The effect of these sterols on the concentration of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) in normal human fibroblasts was also determined. In these cells, both lanosterol analogs lowered HMGR protein levels without affecting LDLR concentration. This in contrast to the previously reported coordinate transcriptional regulation of these two genes by the C27-sterol 25-hydroxy-cholesterol. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that different sterols regulate HMGR activity through distinct mechanisms.
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade with 80 and 160 mg valsartan in healthy, normotensive subjects.

Abstract Background: An 80-mg dose once or twice daily is the dose of valsartan frequently administered for treatment of hypertension. The target dose selected for the Val-HeFT trial in patients with chronic heart failure is 160 mg twice daily. The level and time course of angiotensin II type 1 (AT 1 )-receptor blockade achieved by 160 mg valsartan have not been reported. Methods and Results: Seven normotensive healthy subjects were assigned in random order to receive a single dose of placebo, 80 mg valsartan, and 160 mg valsartan at 7- to 10-day intervals. AT 1 -receptor blockade level (%) was determined by the pressure response to administration of exogenous angiotensin II. The pressure response to angiotensin II was measured at baseline and 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours after oral administration of placebo, 80 mg valsartan, and 160 mg valsartan. Eighty and 160 mg valsartan resulted in a significant and similar level of AT 1 -receptor blockade at 2 and 6 hours compared with placebo. The 160-mg dose resulted in a significantly greater level of AT 1 -receptor blockade than 80 mg at 12 and 24 hours. Conclusions: During the first 6 hours after oral administration of 80 and 160 mg valsartan the level of AT 1 -receptor blockade is similar. However, only 160 mg valsartan provides sustained AT 1 -receptor blockade over 24 hours.
Dynamics of Spanish-Language Neighborhoods in Chicago and Atlanta: 1990–2000

This study examines and compares how the spatial arrangements of Spanish speakers have changed over time in a traditional immigrant gateway, Chicago, and in an emerging immigrant gateway, Atlanta. Using the 1990 and 2000 U.S. Census data, spatial autocorrelation analysis confirms that Spanish-language neighborhoods continue to be in the city and the suburbs of Chicago. Atlanta’s Spanish-language neighborhoods, on the other hand, are mainly located in the suburbs where major growth took place over the decade. However, Spanish-language neighborhoods in both the city and suburbs of Atlanta and Chicago share similar characteristics: higher percentages of residents who are foreign-born and limited English proficient, and households with low levels of income. While the model of spatial assimilation is still relevant to our understanding of residential patterns among contemporary immigrants and their descendants, the interpretation of findings, including those for new destinations such as Atlanta where large-scale immigration occurred after suburbanization, should place less emphasis on the central city/suburb distinction and suburban homogeneity. The growing diversity in language use among residents necessitates the provision of accessible social services and information.
Adenosine mediates tubuloglomerular feedback

variations of NaCl concentration in the macula densa region of the tubule between ∼20 and 60 mM/l cause inverse changes in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) that, for the most part, are the result of a progressive increase in afferent arteriolar resistance and a subsequent fall in glomerular
Olfactory and solitary chemosensory cells: two different chemosensory systems in the nasal cavity of the American alligator, Alligator mississippiensis.

Background The nasal cavity of all vertebrates houses multiple chemosensors, either innervated by the Ist (olfactory) or the Vth (trigeminal) cranial nerve. Various types of receptor cells are present, either segregated in different compartments (e.g. in rodents) or mingled in one epithelium (e.g. fish). In addition, solitary chemosensory cells have been reported for several species. Alligators which seek their prey both above and under water have only one nasal compartment. Information about their olfactory epithelium is limited. Since alligators seem to detect both volatile and water-soluble odour cues, I tested whether different sensory cell types are present in the olfactory epithelium.
Transcatheter Endocardial Ablation: Acute Effects of Direct Current Countershock on Regional Myocardial Blood Flow

Effect of DC Shock Ablation on Myocardial Blood Flow. Introduction: High energy direct current ablative shocks delivered through endocardial electrode catheters have been used as a treatment for various cardiac arrhythmias including ventricular tachycardia. Frequently, these shocks result in depression of myocardial function, at least transiently. Methods and Results: This study assessed the effect of a 200-joule direct current shock delivered endocardially to the apex of the heart in ten adult mongrel dogs. Arterial blood pressures were monitored continuously. Myocardial contraction was monitored via two-dimensional echocardiography. Regional myocardial blood flows were measured using radionuclide labeled microspheres before delivery of the shock, 30 seconds after delivery of the shock, and at 5 and 10 minutes after the shock. The results of the study demonstrated that there was a marked drop in arterial blood pressure immediately after the shock that gradually recovered over a 20-minute period. Regional myocardial blood flow at the site of catheter ablation was severely depressed immediately after the shock. The degree of myocardial blood flow depression was inversely related to the distance from the site of ablation. At 5–10 minutes after ablation there was a marked hyperemic response in areas that suffered from depressed flow immediately after the shock. Two- dimensional echocardiography demonstrated depressed contractile function immediately after the shock with gradual recovery over a 10- to 20-minute period. The catheter shock also generated prominent echo densities within the myocardium surrounding the ablative site. In contrast to the intracavitary echo densities that cleared quickly, the intramyocardial densities cleared much more slowly. Conclusion: The results of the study confirm the clinical observation that human left ventricular function is depressed acutely following a high-energy ablative shock delivered to the left ventricular endocardium. Our results also demonstrated for the flrst time the effect of such ablative shocks on regional myocardial blood flow. Such depressions of blood flow may help explain the sudden drop in contractile function of the heart. The persistent intramyocardial echoes seen after the shock probably represented generation of intramyocardial bubbles that could obstruct arterial flow as well as disrupt cellular function. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 3, pp. 40–47, February 1992)
Photoaffinity labelling of P-glycoprotein catalytic sites

Photoaffinity labelling of hamster P-glycoprotein was carried out after trapping of radioactive Mg-8-azido-ADP in the catalytic sites by vanadate or beryllium fluoride. With either trapping agent the same labelled peptide was obtained in homogeneous form, with the sequence -FNEVVFNxPTRPDI-, corresponding to residues 1034–1037 in the C-terminal nucleotide binding site. The missing residue `x' corresponds to Tyr-1041, which is therefore a primary reaction target of 8-azido-ADP. This tyrosine is conserved in all hamster, mouse and human P-glycoproteins. A second major labelled peptide fraction was also identified. The major sequence in this fraction was -NIHFSxPSR-, corresponding to residues 393–401 of hamster P-glycoprotein, where `x' corresponds to Tyr-398 in the N-terminal nucleotide binding site. Therefore Tyr-398, which is also conserved in other P-glycoproteins, is also a reaction target for 8-azido-ADP. In sequence alignment of the two nucleotide binding sites, Tyr-398 exactly corresponds to Tyr-1041. The data indicate that these two tyrosines lie close to the adenine ring of bound substrate MgATP in the respective catalytic sites of P-glycoprotein.
Housing crisis after natural disaster: the aftermath of the November 1980 southern Italian earthquake

Abstract The problems of mass-homelessness created by the earthquake of 23 November 1980 in southern Italy were tackled by the Italian government in two phases, respectively involving resettlement of the survivors in temporary prefabricated homes and reconstruction of permanent housing. This paper firstly describes and evaluates the programme of temporary shelter provision, showing that, although it was successful in rehousing survivors, it has helped to alter the urban layout and architectural style of villages in the disaster area and, coupled with indiscriminate demolition of damaged buildings, has reduced the emphasis on permanent reconstruction. Special powers adopted by the government to achieve the resettlement are also evaluated. Next, the main reconstruction laws, which were passed about 6 months after the disaster, are examined. Large-scale financial provision for the reconstruction process is shown to have been tempered by bureaucratic delays, legal complexities and a certain amount of inequity in the distribution of funds. Aftershocks and subsequent earthquakes are described in terms of how they prolonged the psychological and physical emergency and helped to stimulate official preparedness for disaster relief. Finally, landslides, floods and other natural disasters occurring during the aftermath of the 1980 earthquake are shown to have had a cumulative effect that resulted in the formation, in 1982, of a Ministry for Civil Protection and the belated strengthening of national measures for disaster relief and prevention.
Chlordiazepoxide displaces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) binding

Abstract Numerous compounds were tested for their ability to displace [ 3 H](3MeHis 2 )TRH binding. It was found that some, but not all, benzodiazepines displaced [ 3 H](3MeHis 2 )TRH from its binding site. The most potent benzodiazepine was chlordiazepoxide, which had an IC 50 value of 5 μM in brain tissue and an IC 50 of 290 nM in pituitary tissue. Analysis of the effect produced by chlordiazepoxide showed it to be apparently noncompetitive in brain tissue but competitive in pituitary tissue. In brain tissue the Hill coefficient was less than one, whereas in pituitary tissue the Hill coefficient was approximately 1.0. In both tissues the effect was reversible and unaffected by the presence of 10 −4 M GABA or 10 −4 M flunitrazepam. These data indicate that three exists some differences between the brain and pituitary TRH receptor complex, that the inhibition produced by chlordiazepoxide is not mediated via a classical benzodiazepine receptor and the effect of chlordiazepoxide may be of pharmacological relevance.
Massive collapse of volcano edifices triggered by hydrothermal pressurization

Catastrophic collapse of steep volcano flanks threatens lives at stratovolcanoes around the world. Although destabilizing shallow intrusion of magma into the edifice accompanies some collapses (e.g., Mount St. Helens), others have occurred without eruption of juvenile magmatic materials (e.g., Bandai). These latter collapses can be difficult to anticipate. Historic collapses without magmatic eruption are associated with shallow hydrothermal groundwater systems at the time of collapse. Through the use of numerical models of heat and groundwater flow, I evaluate the efficacy of hydrothermally driven collapse. Heating from remote magma intrusion at depth can generate temporarily elevated pore-fluid pressures that propagate upward into an edifice. Effective-stress deformation modeling shows that these pressures are capable of destabilizing the core of an edifice, resulting in massive, deep-seated collapse. Far-field pressurization only occurs with specific rock hydraulic properties; however, data from numerous hydrothermal systems illustrate that this process can transpire in realistic settings.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Detection of Aqueous Cyanide

Cyanide ion (CN-) has been the subject of numerous studies probing the mechanisms underlying the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) phenomenon. This work examines various aspects critical to application of SERS for direct detection of trace cyanide in groundwater and in wastewater streams. A new method for direct quantitation of cyanide in aqueous electrolyte has been developed that uses an ex situ oxidation-reduction cycle to precondition a planar silver electrode. Cyanide ion can be detected in 0.1 M KCI with a linear response between 100 ppm and 10 ppb. The estimated limit of detection is approximately 8 ppb. The effects of pH, electrolyte level, and two common background ions, nitrate (NO3-) and sulfate (SO42-), have been characterized. Cyanide response was found to be sensitive to pH, with optimal performance observed at neutral to basic pH. Electrolyte concentrations of 0.001 M reduced response to cyanide by a factor of five, while levels above 0.1 M had no significant effect. The addition of 10-ppm sulfate ion decreased response approximately 40%, while the presence of nitrate ion at concentrations up to 100 ppm had a negligible effect on SERS response. These results suggest that cyanide ion can be detected directly in high-ionic-strength aqueous solutions, such as groundwater.
Probing Single-Cell Micromechanics In Vivo: The Microrheology of C. elegans Developing Embryos

Cells are not directly accessible in vivo and therefore their mechanical properties cannot be measured by methods that require a direct contact between probe and cell. Here, we introduce a novel in vivo assay based on particle tracking microrheology whereby the extent and time-lag dependence of the mean squared displacements of thermally excited nanoparticles embedded within the cytoplasm of developing embryos reflect local viscoelastic properties. As a proof of principle, we probe local viscoelastic properties of the cytoplasm of developing Caenorhabditis elegans embryos. Our results indicate that unlike differentiated cells, the cytoplasm of these embryos does not exhibit measurable elasticity, but is highly viscous. Furthermore, the viscosity of the cytoplasm does not vary along the anterior-posterior axis of the embryo during the first cell division. These results support the hypothesis that the asymmetric positioning of the mitotic spindle stems from an asymmetric distribution of elementary force generators as opposed to asymmetric viscosity of the cytoplasm.
Clinical experience with pancreaticoduodenal transplantation.

Three cases of human pancreaticoduodenal allografting are reported. One of the three patients showed no rejection of her transplanted pancreas for a period of ten months at which time she was killed in an automobile accident. She received no insulin following her transplant and maintained normal blood glucose and amylase levels. There was no evidence of progression of vascular disease during this period of successful transplantation. The other two patients rejected their duodenal pancreases at five and six weeks, respectively. Clear rejection of a transplanted pancreas should be followed by prompt removal of the transplant. Management of pancreatic rejection in this way should preclude significant morbidity or loss of life due to the procedure. Further human pancreas transplantation appears to be warranted utilizing the lessons learned.
Reliability study on rapid thermal processed metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors

Abstract Device reliability is an important issue when a new process technology is introduced. In this paper, we present our experimental results on the performance and reliability of semiconductor devices fabricated by rapid thermal processing (RTP). It is found that the characteristics of fresh n-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) fabricated by RTP are comparable to the conventional furnace processed ones. These characteristics tend to be improved with an increase in RTP temperature, but degraded with an increase in RTP time. Higher substrate current and the charge trapping in the gate oxide of RTP processed devices cause slightly higher device instability as compared to the furnace annealed devices after accelerated stress.
Use of a soft tissue expander in alveolar ridge augmentation: a preliminary report.

The use of an intraoral alveolar ridge soft tissue expander to aid in recon-struction of the alveolar ridge is described, and the results in five cases are reported. The technique was found to be reliable and efficient, and patient acceptance was uniformly good.
Rapid Prototyping of Ceramic Based Photonic Bandgap Structures

A three-dimensional photonic bandgap (PBG) structure was fabricated from CAD models using a method based on lost wax rapid prototyping and ceramic gelcasting. The inverse PBG mold was constructed from a low melting point thermoplastic using a high precision Sanders Rapid Toolmaker. An aqueous stable slurry (200-300 cp) containing 50-75wt% of the ceramic powders (BaSrTiO 3 , MgO), a 15wt% solution of monomer (Methacylamide) and crosslinker (Poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate), and a free radical initiator (2,2'Azobis(2-amidino-propane) dihydrochloride) was cast into the mold. A polymerization reaction was thermally activated at 50°C to immobilize the ceramic powders. The wax mold was then removed by drying the green body in a high humidity oven at 120°C. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of the unfired part showed that atmosphere hampered the polymerization reaction at the surface of the part. The green density, sintered density, and permittivity all increased as the solids loading increased. In order to optimize the dielectric properties and minimize cracking and warping in the sintered part, the solids loading had to be greater than 80 wt%. This study investigated several steps in the lost mold / gelcasting procedure including stabilizing the ceramic suspension, the correlation between the solids loading and the green and sintered densities, binder removal, and the effect of shrinkage during sintering on the net shape.
Donor age affects fibrosis progression and graft survival after liver transplantation for hepatitis C.

Background The use of liver allografts from an older donor (OD) (age >50 years) is a widespread strategy to manage the disparity between supply and demand of organs for liver transplantation. This study determines the effect of OD allografts on fibrosis progression and graft survival after liver transplantation in patients with and without infection caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). Methods. All patients undergoing liver transplantation at our center from March 1998 to December 2001 were analyzed. Protocol liver biopsies were performed at 1, 16, and 52 weeks after transplantation and yearly thereafter. One liver pathologist scored all biopsy specimens for modified hepatic activity index (0-18) and fibrosis (0-6). Results. A total of 402 patients (167 with HCV and 235 without HCV) underwent liver transplantation during the study period. Among patients with HCV, baseline characteristics of OD recipients were similar to younger donor (YD) (age <50 years) recipients. In patients with HCV, graft survival was shorter in OD graft recipients than in YD recipients (P<0.001). In patients without HCV, graft survival was independent of donor age. In patients with HCV, a fibrosis score of 3 or greater was present in 17% of OD recipients at 4 months and in 26% at 12 months after transplantation, compared with 8% of YD recipients at 4 months and 13% at 12 months (P<0.001). Conclusions. Liver transplantation with OD grafts is associated with rapid progression of fibrosis and decreased graft survival in patients with HCV, but not in patients without HCV. OD grafts should be considered preferentially for patients without HCV.
Analysis of nucleolar transcription and processing domains and pre-rRNA movements by in situ hybridization

We have examined the cytological localization of rRNA synthesis, transport, and processing events within the mammalian cell nucleolus by double-label fluorescent in situ hybridization analysis using probes for small selected segments of pre-rRNA, which have known half-lives. In particular, a probe for an extremely short-lived 5′ region that is not found separate of the pre-rRNA identifies nascent transcripts within the nucleolus of an intact active cell, while other characterized probes identify molecules at different stages in the rRNA processing pathway. Through these studies, visualized by confocal and normal light microscopy, we (1) confirm that rDNA transcription occurs in small foci within nucleoli (2) show that the nascent pre-rRNA transcripts and most likely also the rDNA templates are surprisingly extended in the nucleolus, (3) provide evidence that the 5′ end of the nascent rRNA transcript moves more rapidly away from the template DNA than does the 3′ end of the newly released transcript, and (4) demonstrate that the various subsequent rRNA processing steps occur sequentially further from the transcription site, with each early processing event taking place in a distinct nucleolar subdomain. These last three points are contrary to the generally accepted paradigms of nucleolar organization and function. Our findings also imply that the nucleolus is considerably more complex than the conventional view, inferred from electron micrographs, of only three kinds of regions—fibrillar centers, dense fibrillar components, and granular components—for the dense fibrillar component evidently consists of several functionally distinct sub-domains that correlate with different steps of ribosome biogenesis.
Complications nearly double the cost of care after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Abstract Background Despite considerable data focused on the morbidity of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), the financial impact of complications has been infrequently analyzed. This study evaluates the impact of the most common complications associated with PD on the cost of care. Additionally, we identified cost centers that were significantly affected by complications. Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospective database in a network of community-based teaching hospitals was performed. All patients (n = 145) who underwent PD were included for years 2005 to 2009. Of these, 144 had complete in-hospital cost data. Complications were assessed and classified into major and minor categories according to Dindo et al. Forty-nine cost centers were analyzed for their association with the cost of complications. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed. Significance was reported for P Results The median cost for PD was $30,937. Patients with major complications had significantly higher median cost compared with those without ($56,224 vs $29,038; P P Conclusions This study identified the major complications of PD, which are significantly associated with a higher cost. Substantial cost center increases were associated with major complications, particularly in pharmacy ($33,850). Measures aimed at limiting complications through centralization of care or care pathways may reduce the overall cost of care for patients after pancreatic resection.
Yeast infections of the lower urinary tract 1. in vitro studies of the tissue phase of Candida albicans

Candida albicans and Torulopsis glabrata are found in large quantities in clean catch urine specimens, usually as saprophytes. Where these yeasts reside in the lower urinary tract is not known although studies of catheterized specimens indicate that they are not in the bladder.Acid rabbit urine supports the growth of C. albicans, but in the absence of tissue the yeast form only is seen. C. albicans did not develop hyphae when grown in urine at an alkaline pH in the presence of tissue.Although yeast may appear in the urinary tract in the absence of antibiotic therapy, there is some indication that these drugs may induce their appearance either by suppression of Enterobacteriaceae that may be present or by some other unknown factor.It is thought that host tissue may produce a substance that will cause the yeast form of Candida, in the presence of an acid urine, to convert to the hyphal form in the absence of disease.
Ability of edentulous subjects to reproduce mandibular border tracings

A pilot study has been described in which edentulous subjects were examined for their ability to reproduce lateral border movements, as measured by the PRI. The results of this study suggest that edentulous subjects, utilizing stabilized baseplates to support a pantograph, are capable of making reproducible lateral border movements as measured by the PRI.
Naloxone and asymptomatic ischemia: Failure to induce angina during exercise testing

Endorphins and endorphin receptors are believed to modulate pain perception. To investigate whether naloxone, a specific antagonist, could initiate anginal pain during exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in asymptomatic patients with angiographically defined coronary artery disease, a single-blind trial was conducted in 10 men with prior positive exercise electrocardiograms. Multistage treadmill exercise tests were performed twice within a week. On the second test, patients received naloxone, 2 mg intravenously, by a syringe infusion pump. Exercise was terminated because of fatigue in 6 patients and completion of the protocol in 4. No patient reported chest pain during exercise. Naloxone did not significantly alter exercise duration, heart rate, blood pressure and ST-segment changes compared with control testing. It is concluded that endorphins do not play a significant role in the recognition of anginal pain in patients who have asymptomatic exercise-induced ischemia.