cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influenza virus neuraminidase alters allogeneic T cell proliferation.

Abstract Influenza virus elicits good cellular and humoral immune responses. Unlike the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response to many other antigens, the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response to influenza virus is CD4 + T cell independent, suggesting that viral infection of antigen-presenting cells may alter their capacity to stimulate T cell responses. To clarify the role of influenza virus in these functional alterations, we compared T cell responses to uninfected and A/PR/8/34-infected dendritic cells (DC). DC were prepared from the bone marrow of C57BL/6 (H2 b ) mice and used to stimulate in vivo and in vitro alloreactive T cell responses. In both cases, influenza virus infection increased the capacity of DC to stimulate T cell proliferation. This enhancement was blocked by antibodies specific for neuraminidase (NA), but not hemagglutinin. Infection was not required to observe enhanced T cell proliferation, showing that NA from exogeneous virus particles can facilitate this effect. These results are the first to show that influenza virus alters the capacity of DC to stimulate T cell proliferation through mechanisms mediated by viral NA.
Transcutaneous transfacial approaches to the anterior skull base

The six-level anatomic classification scheme of transfacial approaches used by the multidisciplinary skull base surgery team at the Barrow Neurological Institute and discussed extensively in these articles is an excellent way to systematically discuss approaches to the anterior and central skull base. Choosing among these options usually involves selecting the best angle of approach in order to minimized brain retraction, as well as optimizing accessibility to structures requiring resection while limiting aesthetic and functional side effects. Have we advanced to the point that we can usually avoid visible transcutaneous facial incisions while not sacrificing the primary goals of tumor resection and minimization of side effects? In this article we will briefly overview the role of transcutaneous approaches to the anterior skull base.
Influence of intracisternal injection of somatostatin analog receptor subtypes 2, 3 and 5 on gastric acid secretion in conscious rats

Abstract Somatostatin (SST) and its analogs injected into the CSF induce different gastric acid response patterns. Five SST receptors have been characterized (SSTR-1 to -5). We studied the influence of selective SSTR-2, -3 and -5 ligands on basal gastric acid secretion after intracisternal (i.c.) injection in conscious rats equipped with chronic gastric and i.c. cannulae. Compared with pre-injection level, the SSTR-3 agonist, BIM-23056 (1 μg) increased acid secretion by 274 ± 43% while the SSTR-2 agonist, DC 32–87 (1 μg) inhibited acid secretion by 50.7 ± 13.3%. SST-14 (1 μg), the SSTR-5 agonist, BIM-23052, (0.5–1 μg), SSTR-3 (0.5 μg) and −2 (0.5 μg) or vehicle injected i.c. did not modify basal acid secretion. These results show that the activation of brainstem SSTR-3 receptors stimulate and SSTR-2 inhibit basal gastric acid secretion in conscious rats with chronic gastric fistulae.
Altered MHC class I expression in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of nonsmoker patients with schizophrenia

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a psychiatric disease with plausible neurodevelopmental etiology. Although genetic studies show significant association of immune molecules loci such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I with SZ, it is not clear whether these immune molecules are involved in the pathology observed in SZ brains. MHC class I and the classical pathway components of complement system (C1q and C3) have been shown to regulate brain neuronal maturation and function. We have examined the expression of MHC class I and complement protein C3 in two frontal cortical regions of postmortem brains of SZ patients. Since cigarette smoking may modulate MHC class I protein expression and a higher rate of smoking is observed in SZ patients, we studied the expression of MHC class I and C3 in relation to the presence of smoking. We found that MHC class I protein expression is reduced in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) but not in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) of nonsmoker SZ patients. We did not observe SZ-associated changes in C3 mRNA expression. Our exploratory research suggests a potential involvement of MHC class I in SZ and implies that smoking might modulate its expression.
Moving Griffith crack in an orthotropic material

Abstract In this paper, an integral transform technique is employed to solve the plane elastodynamic problem of a crack of fixed length propagating at a constant speed in a uniformly stressed medium. It is assumed that the crack is located in a plane of elastic symmetry of the material. The stresses and strains ahead of the crack tip are determined explicitly and the conditions governing the initial growth of the crack are investigated using two current theories of fracture (Maximum normal stress and Minimum strain-energy density). Based on these theories, it appears that, depending upon the particular orthotropy of the material, the crack may extend in a straight line for all velocities or may immediately branch out at low velocities (compared to the shear wave velocity of the material) or may start propagating along its initial position for small velocities and then, as the velocity increases, may curve and branch out.
Ultra-slow dynamics of an ultra- fast laser

The population transfer between the two pulses in a mode locked ring laser is a direct analogy of the population oscillation (Rabi cycle) in a two-level atom.
The c-wave of the electroretinogram recorded under clinical conditions from rabbits

To determine whether large and repeatable c-waves can be recorded from rabbits with equipment already in use in clinical electroretinographic laboratories, the Burian-Allen electrode, connected bipolarly or monopolarly, was used to record electroretinograms from pigmented rabbits. The Jet electrode was also used. The c-waves elicited by long-duration (4-second) stimuli were compared to those elicited by stroboscopic stimuli. In addition, the c-waves recorded with direct-coupled amplification were compared to those recorded with condenser-coupled amplification (one-half-amplitude bandpass=0.1 Hz). The b-wave amplitude was not altered by the amplifier coupling or by the two stimulus durations. The largest c-waves were elicited by 4-second-duration stimuli and recorded with direct-coupled amplification. Although the c-wave amplitude was reduced by stroboscopic stimuli and by condenser coupling, large and repeatable c-waves were elicited by stroboscopic stimuli and recorded with condenser-coupled amplification. A comparison of stimulus duration and amplifier coupling showed that the stimulus duration was more important in recording large-amplitude c-waves. Similar results were obtained with the Jet electrode. We conclude that repeatable and large c-waves can be elicited by a stroboscopic stimuli and can be recorded with condenser-coupled amplification with good low-frequency response from rabbits.
Incidence and management of esophageal stricture formation, ulcer bleeding, perforation, and massive hematoma formation from sclerotherapy versus band ligation

Incidence and management of esophageal stricture formation, ulcer bleeding, perforation, and massive hematoma formation from sclerotherapy versus band ligation
The Contribution of Radiative Feedbacks to Orbitally Driven Climate Change

AbstractRadiative feedbacks influence Earth's climate response to orbital forcing, amplifying some aspects of the response while damping others. To better understand this relationship, the GFDL Climate Model, version 2.1 (CM2.1), is used to perform idealized simulations in which only orbital parameters are altered while ice sheets, atmospheric composition, and other climate forcings are prescribed at preindustrial levels. These idealized simulations isolate the climate response and radiative feedbacks to changes in obliquity and longitude of the perihelion alone. Analysis shows that, despite being forced only by a redistribution of insolation with no global annual-mean component, feedbacks induce significant global-mean climate change, resulting in mean temperature changes of −0.5 K in a lowered obliquity experiment and +0.6 K in a NH winter solstice perihelion minus NH summer solstice perihelion experiment. In the obliquity experiment, some global-mean temperature response may be attributable to vertical...
Frost growth and densification on a flat surface in laminar flow with variable humidity

Abstract Experiments are performed concerning frost growth and densification in laminar flow over a flat surface under conditions of constant and variable humidity. The flat plate test specimen is made of aluminum-6031, and has dimensions of 0.3 m × 0.3 m × 6.35 mm. Results for the first variable humidity case are obtained for a plate temperature of 255.4 K, air velocity of 1.77 m/s, air temperature of 295.1 K, and a relative humidity continuously ranging from 81 to 54%. The second variable humidity test case corresponds to plate temperature of 255.4 K, air velocity of 2.44 m/s, air temperature of 291.8 K, and a relative humidity ranging from 66 to 59%. Results for the constant humidity case are obtained for a plate temperature of 263.7 K, air velocity of 1.7 m/s, air temperature of 295 K, and a relative humidity of 71.6%. Comparisons of the data with the author's frost model extended to accommodate variable humidity suggest satisfactory agreement between the theory and the data for both constant and variable humidity.
Enigmatic cohabitation in bowl and doily spiders, Frontinella pyramitela (Araneae, Linyphiidae)

Abstract Although some spiders are social and associate in groups for long periods of time, most are solitary, coming together only to court and mate, and then only for a very brief time. Among solitary web-building spiders, adult males typically cease web construction and become vagabonds while adult females continue their web-borne lives, at some time(s) hosting and mating with the wandering males. The visits of male bowl and doily spiders to females' webs are highly variable in duration and much longer, usually, than the time required for courtship and mating. This study attempted to determine what variables were responsible for the large variability in cohabitation durations in bowl and doily spiders, and why cohabitations were prolonged beyond the time necessary for copulation. Female identity, female reproductive status (i.e. virginity), presence or absence of a female, time of day, relative humidity, recent intrusion by a second male, and recent prey capture by the male were tested. Only the first and last of these influenced, though mildly, the duration of cohabitations, and none of these variables could account for the large variability in cohabitation durations. Further analysis of the data showed that the departures of males from females' webs were governed by stochastic processes within the spiders, not by responses to environmental variables or to individual histories. These processes are readily modelled by a pair of dierolling strategies, one apparently resident in the male and the other a product of the interaction of both male and female.
Prolactin secretion after bromocryptine in the hypophysial stalk-transected gilt

Blood samples were collected by jugular vein cannula from 6 hypophysial stalk-transected (HST) and 4 intact (INTACT) crossbred gilts at 0800, 0830 and 0900 h. Immediately after the 0900 h sample, thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) was injected i.v. to determine anterior pituitary gland response via release of prolactin (PRL). Blood was collected every 15 min for 1 h and every 30 min for an additional 2 h. All gilts received the dopamine (DA) agonist, bromocriptine (CB-154), s.c. at 1600 h and blood sampling and TRH challenge was repeated beginning at 0800 h the next day. Mean serum PRL concentration at 0800, 0830 and 0900 h was termed basal PRL for each day. Before CB-154, basal PRL for HST gilts was greater (P < .01) than for INTACT gilts, whereas, after CB-154, basal PRL were similar among HST and INTACT gilts. Before CB-154, TRH caused peak secretion of PRL of similar magnitude within 15 minutes in both HST and INTACT gilts; PRL decreased to basal concentration by 120 min after TRH in both groups. However, after CB-154, PRL response to TRH was blunted similarly in all gilts. These results indicate that suppression of DA pathways is an antecedent to the physiological mechanism by which a secretagogue, such as TRH, stimulates PRL secretion in the intact pig.
Stimulative effects of elemental sulfur in the presence of ammonium on chile and broccoli growth in calcareous soils

Abstract The chile pepper plant seldom responds to N and P fertilizers on fertile soils. Surplus industrial H2SO4 and elemental S have created interest in “mining”; calcareous soils for additional supplies of P, Ca, Mg and micronutrients. The effect of variable S, on the growth of chile and broccoli was evaluated holding other nutrients constant. Growth of chile and broccoli plants was significantly increased in the greenhouse and chile yield increased in the field. Incremental S additions increased the water extractable and desorbable Ca + Mg and P contents of soil. The total N and K content of chile plant grown in the greenhouse increased, and then decreased, P decreased, as S rates increased. Yield of dry red chile with constant N peaked at 16.5 g S m‐2 and then decreased with increasing S in the field. Rroccoli responded more to S application than to directly applied foliar micronutrient solutions (Fe and 7n), and responded much better to (NH4)2SO4 + S than to Ca(NO3)2 at equivalent N rates. Increased...
Exploiting publicly available cartographic resources for aerial image analysis

Cartographic databases can be kept up to date through aerial image analysis. Such analysis is optimized when one knows what parts of an aerial image are roads and when one knows locations of complex road structures, such as overpasses and intersections. This paper proposes self-supervised computer vision algorithms that analyze a publicly available cartographic resource (i.e., screenshots of road vectors) to, without human intervention, identify road image-regions and detects overpasses.Our algorithm segments a given input image into two parts: road- and non-road image regions. It does so not by learning a global appearance model of roads from hand-labeled data, but rather by approximating a locally consistent model of the roads' appearance from self-obtained data. In particular, the learned local model is used to execute a binary classification. We then apply an MRF to smooth potentially inconsistent binary classification outputs.To detect overpasses, our method scrutinizes screenshots of road vector images to approximate the geometry of the underlying road vector and use the estimated geometry to localize overpasses.Our methods, based on experiments using inter-city highway ortho-images, show promising results. Segmentation results showed on average over 90% recall; overpass detection results showed 94% accuracy.
Social status study

Constructed subscales designed to measure composition of social status factors in personal adjustment. The Social Status Study consists of 200 items and was designed to sample role-playing in the 10 specific social status areas: (1) Citizen; (2) Social Person; (3) Social Class; (4) Parent and Family; (5) Financial Manager; (6) Sex Partner; (7) Worker; (8) Marriage Partner; (9) Leader-Follower; and (10) Political.
Numerical simulation of single crystal growth by submerged heater method

Abstract A novel method of crystal growth which utilizes an axial submerged heater is proposed and numerically simulated. Single crystals should be grown by directional solidification in vertical bottom seeded crucibles. Submerged in the melt, the heater supplies the heat axially downward, enclosing and stratifying a small active portion of the melt.
Christian Prayer and Song in a Post-Holocaust Church

Because liturgy also is ritual and rite through which patterns of linguistic, homiletic, musical, and embodied practices are repeated over time and by which Christian persons are formed, we must pay close attention to the subtle ways in which the “liturgy of supersessionism” persists in our churches. To this end, this article explores questions about the Christian use of the Tetragrammaton in prayer and song; the distinction, or lack thereof, between Sabbath and Sunday; the relationship between the dating of Easter and Passover; and the ways in which Christian prayer and song portray the relationship between Israel and the Church.
Simulation of Simultaneous Muscle Strength and Balance Constraints during One and Two Handed Lifting

This paper addresses the complex issues affecting the postures people choose to use when attempting moderate load lifting exertions. In essence, lifting exertions are known to require a person to utilize muscle strength capabilities at each joint while also maintaining balance. As loads in the hand are located further away from the person both muscle and balance requirements increase. By setting population limits to accommodate both a 90%tile muscle strength capability and a functional balance capability within the University of Michigan's 3D Static Strength Prediction Program, it was possible to run a set of trials which demonstrate the importance of both constraints when lifting loads in one and both hands placed at different horizontal distances away from the body. A small study showing the effects of one handed bracing was also performed. Results indicate that subtle changes in body postures and or hand bracing can affect the maximum distance a moderate load can be lifted. This demonstrates the genera...
The permatron-a magnetically controlled industrial tube

THE Permatron is a new gas-filled control tube in which the initiation of a discharge may be controlled by an externally applied magnetic field. The possibility of this type of control has been recognized during the past few years,1 but little attention has been paid to proper design or to the interesting applications of tubes built specifically for magnetic control. The present paper has been written as the result of research work which has shown that magnetic-control tubes are a reliable and useful addition to the field of electronics. The trademark “Permatron” has been chosen to indicate the use of magnetic control.
An ETL Metadata Model for Data Warehousing

Metadata is essential for understanding information stored in data warehouses. It helps increase levels of adoption and usage of data warehouse data by knowledge workers and decision makers. A metadata model is important to the implementation of a data warehouse, the lack of a metadata model can lead to quality concerns about the data warehouse. A highly successful data warehouse implementation depends on consistent metadata. This article proposes adoption of an ETL (extracttransform-load) metadata model for the data warehouse that makes subject area refreshes metadata-driven, loads observation timestamps and other useful parameters, and minimizes consumption of database systems resources. The ETL metadata model provides developers with a set of ETL development tools and delivers a user-friendly batch cycle refresh monitoring tool for the production support team.
Effects of Caffeine and Diphenhydramine on Auditory Evoked Cortical Potentials

Caffeine and diphenhydramine are known to affect cognitive functioning in vigilance tasks. In this study, long-latency auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) obtained during concomitant performance of a visual vigilance task were examined for changes in response to administration of caffeine (200 mg) and diphenhydramine (25 mg). The AEPs were also analyzed for changes over time for up to two hours postdrug administration. Significant increases in N1 and P2 latencies and decreases in amplitude voltage were exhibited over time. The P2-N2 amplitude was significantly lower throughout testing after taking caffeine. A significant increase was seen in the P2-N2 amplitude 40 min. after diphenhydramine ingestion. These changes in amplitude may be the result of the auditory stimulus acting as a diversion to the participants while performing the visual vigilance task. Diphenhydramine was more likely to impair participants' vigilance, resulting in greater attention paid toward the auditory stimulus, whereas caffeine seemed to help participants maintain their focus of attention on the visual vigilance task.
A Methodology for Quantifying Deformations in Stented Coronary Arteries Based on Three-Dimensional Angiography

Coronary arteries possess a curvilinear shape as observed in all vascular trees and undergo a cyclical deformation due to their attachment to the myocardium. Implanted stents result in a permanent alternation of the curvilinearity of the artery. It has been hypothesized that the frequently observed straightening effect of stents implies an uneven distribution of forces within the arterial wall, potentially augmenting the injury reaction of the vessel wall and thereby increasing the rate of restenosis. When a target vessel is very tortuous or its shape changes dramatically during the cardiac cycle, the implanted stent may fracture due to complex bending forces induced from the artery movement. Stent fractures have been reported in coronary and pulmonary artery stenting, aortic coarctation, and peripheral vascular stenting such as femoropopliteal artery, renal artery, common iliac artery, and subclavian artery or even nonvascular stenting such as gastrointestinal tract. It is believed that stent fracture is likely to be affected by a large flexion induced from body movement (e.g., such as knee bending or leg crossing) or cyclic flexion subject to cardiac motion. Additionally, stent fracture might be also associated with the high incidence of target lesion revascularization. It is the intent of this paper to propose a methodology to quantify artery deformation subject to cardiac motion and shape alternation caused by device implantation that are applicable today and also generic to other vascular trees created from the same or different imaging modalities. In experiments, two typical human coronary arterial trees are presented, and the validation study by use of intra-coronary marker wires is reported.
Dynamic loads on twin jet exhaust nozzles due to shock noise

Acoustic near field data were collected with model single and twin jet nozzles to determine if closely spaced nozzles produce higher acoustic loading than do single nozzles. The tests were spurred by structural failure of the B-1 exhaust nozzle external flaps and similar damage on the F-15. The test was performed using two 5/8 in. ID pipes machined and placed side-by-side to mimic B-1 nozzles. A microphone mounted on the internozzle fairing measured acoustic levels near the nozzle exit plane. The nozzles oscillated significantly more than did a single nozzle over a wide range of nozzle pressure ratios. Acoustic levels in the dual jets exceeded single jet noise by as much as 20 dB, making acoustic resonance a definite candidate for structural damage in the twin jet configuration.
Heterozygotes and homozygotes genotypes human red blood cells response to trap and drag Force

We have studied the relative difference in the deformability of human red blood cells (RBCs) with heterozygotes (sickle cell trait) and homozygotes (sickle cell anemia) genotypes using infrared laser trap and drag shear force
Gear defect modeling of a multiple-stage gear train

This study demonstrates the transient and steady state dynamic loading on teeth within a two-stage gear transmission arising from backlash and geometric manufacturing errors by utilizing a nonlinear multibody dynamics software model. Backlash between gear teeth which is essential to provide better lubrication on tooth surfaces and to eliminate interference is included as a defect and a necessary part of transmission design. Torsional vibration is shown to cause teeth separation and double-sided impacts in unloaded and lightly loaded gearing drives. Vibration and impact force distinctions between backlash and combinations of transmission errors are demonstrated under different initial velocities and load conditions. The backlash and manufacturing errors in the first stage of the gear train are distinct from those of the second stage. By analyzing the signal at a location between the two stages, the mutually affected impact forces are observed from different gear pairs, a phenomenon not observed from single pair of gears. Frequency analysis shows the appearance of side band modulations as well as harmonics of the gear mesh frequency. A joint time-frequency response analysis during startup illustrates the manner in which contact forces increase during acceleration.
Single crystal studies of tetra-n-butylammoniumnickel (o-benzene-diselenolate)2 and related transition metal complexes: possible synthetic metal precursors

Abstract Preliminary low temperature X-ray diffraction studies of single crystals of the tetra-n-butylammonium salt of nickel (o-benzenediselenolate (bds)) 2 confirm the presence of a low temperature crystalline phase transition. At 155(±2) K, a superlattice forms along the c crystalline axis. Variable temperature single crystal ESR studies reveal a very sharp change (i.e., less than 1 K in width) in two of the principal components of the g-tensor at 155(±2) K for the (n-Bu) 4 N + Ni(bds) 2 − salt. Neither single crystal or polycrystalline ESR studies of the corresponding sulfur substituted salt gives evidence for a crystalline phase transition between 80 and 300 K. Although both salts are isomorphic at room temperature. Temperature dependent ESR studies of single crystals of (n-Bu) 4 N + Ni s 2 − and tetra-n-butylammonium nickel (o-benzenedithiolate(bdt) 2 reveal that the g-tensors for both the bds and bdt salts are orthorhombic. Whereas, ESR studies on polycrystalline samples suggest that the bdt salt is orthorhombic and the bds salt is axial. The two sets of measurements are consistent due to the poorer ESR spectral resolution possible when studying polycrystalline samples.
Single-period inventory models with demand uncertainty and quantity discounts: behavioral implications and a new solution procedure

Quantity discounts are considered in the context of the single-period inventory model known as “the newsboy problem.” It is argued that the behavioral implications of the all-units discount schedule are more complex and interesting than the literature has suggested. Consideration of this behavior and the use of marginal analysis lead to a new method for solving this problem that is both conceptually simpler and more efficient than the traditional approach. This marginal-cost solution procedure is described graphically, an algorithm is presented, and an example is used to demonstrate that this solution procedure can be extended easily to handle complex discount schedules, such as some combined (simultaneously applied) purchasing and transportation cost discount schedules.
A factorization on the semi-infinite interval I: General theory

Abstract This paper extends the methods of special factorization to treat a class of factorization problems on the half-line. Factorizations involving integral operators with stationary and nonstationary kernels are presented. A simple “time domain” connection between the factorization problem and the stable regulator problem in Hilbert space is developed.
SENSITIVITY OF PHYTOPLANKTON SIMULATIONS TO VARIATIONS IN THE HALF SATURATION CONSTANTS

In many impoundment dynamic water quality models, the growth of two or more ecologic groups of phytoplankton may be simulated. These ecologic groups are differentiated by growth rates, temperature tolerances, settling rates, and the Michaelis-Menten half saturation constants for necessary nutrients. In this investigation, the effect of variations in the Michaelis-Menten half saturation constant for the limiting nutrient when two competing ecologic groups of algae are simulated is examined. In an idealized case, it is demonstrated that uncertainty in the half saturation constant for the limiting nutrient for one ecologic group of algae can significantly affect the simulation results and in some cases could lead to a poorly designed impoundment restoration program.
Oxygen electro-reduction catalysts for self-assembly on supports

A new strategy for making low cost, catalytic electrodes is being developed for fuel-cells and electrochemical sensors. The strategy is to synthesize a macrocyclic catalyst derivatized with a functional group (like phosphate or carboxylate), which has affinity for a metal-oxide/metal surface. The purpose of the functional group is to anchor the modified catalyst to the metal surface, thereby promoting the formation of a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of catalyst on a metal support. Syntheses are given for new ferrocene compounds and metallo porphyrins with anchor groups. The ferrocenes, which are relatively easy to synthesize, were made to learn how to form a stable SAM on a metal-oxide/metal surface. The metallo porphyrins were made for catalyzing oxygen electro-reduction with no platinum. Strategies for attaining an ideal catalytic electrode are discussed.
Transoral approach to the superomedial parapharyngeal space.

OBJECTIVES: To present our early experience with the transoral approach to the superomedial parapharyngeal space (PPS) and describe our technique for removal of these neoplasms.STUDY DESIGN: Consecutive case series by one author (Y.D.). METHODS: Eight patients with various neoplasms of the superomedial PPS were retrospectively reviewed for type of neoplasm, size, success with the transoral approach, need for conversion to another approach, length of hospitalization, and complications.RESULTS: The transoral approach described herein safely allowed for en bloc resection of benign neoplasms with intraoperative control and exposure of the internal carotid artery. The most common pathology encountered was that of schwannoma. All patients were started on liquid diet on postoperative day 1. Average length of stay was 3.2 days (range, 2 to 5). Mean tumor size was 3.3 cm (range, 1.5 to 7 cm). No significant complications were felt to be related to the approach itself and visualization was felt to be excellent in e...
Performance of juvenile steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) produced from untreated and cryopreserved milt

Abstract Despite the expanding use of milt cryopreservation in aquaculture, the performance of fish produced from this technique has not been fully explored beyond initial rearing stages. We compared the performance of juvenile steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss produced from untreated (UM) and cryopreserved milt (CM) and reared for 4–9 months. For the 1996 brood, CM alevins were heavier (∼ 1.7%, P P P > 0.05) for 1997 brood alevins and percent yolk was similar for both broods ( P > 0.34). In growth and survival experiment I (GSE-I, 1996), UM and CM juveniles reared in separate tanks and fed to satiation (130 days) showed no significant differences in survival, length or weight ( P > 0.05) between milt groups. In contrast, for UM and CM siblings reared in the same tank for 210 days on a low food ration (GSE-II), survival was similar ( P > 0.05), but length (UM 4% > CM, P CM, P = 0.08), were influenced by cryopreservation. Fish from the 1997 brood (GSE-III) were reared for 313 days in a repeat of GSE-II and no differences were found in survival ( P = 0.47), length ( P = 0.75) or weight ( P = 0.76) suggesting considerable heterogeneity between broods. Performance of the 1996 brood was also tested for response to stress and a disease challenge. Cortisol responses of juveniles exposed to acute stress were not significantly different ( P = 0.19), but mean cortisol was consistently and significantly greater ( P Listonella anguillarum , we found similar mortality proportions ( P = 0.72) for UM and CM fish. Variable juvenile performance for the parameters tested indicated significant differences among broods and families and suggests a cautionary approach to the widespread use of cryopreservation for steelhead.
Antegrade and retrograde continuous warm blood cardioplegia: a 31P magnetic resonance study.

Background. Retrograde normothermic blood cardioplegia has been shown to provide myocardial protection during certain bypass procedures. However, a number of animal studies have shown less than optimal myocardial protection with this technique. Methods. Isolated, beating porcine hearts were perfused antegradely (aortic root pressure=75 to 95 mm Hg) for 30 minutes. Arrest was induced and maintained for 60 minutes with high K + blood cardioplegia delivered either antegradely (n = 8) or retrogradely (n = 8) (coronary sinus pressure=35 to 55 mm Hg). Perfusate was switched to normokalemic blood for recovery of sinus rhythm (30 minutes). Intracellular pH, creatine phosphate, inorganic phosphate, and adenosine triphosphate were monitored continuously and noninvasively with phosphorus 31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy throughout the experiment, and functional variables (rate—pressure product and the positive and negative first derivatives of left ventricular pressure) were assessed concurrently. Results. Antegrade cardioplegia maintained high-energy metabolites, intracellular pH, and myocardial function. Retrograde normothermic blood cardioplegia resulted in an increase in inorganic phosphate (197% ± 15% of control) and a decrease in creatine phosphate (51% ± 6% of control). There was no significant difference in myocardial function between the two groups ( p > 0.05). The magnetic resonance spectroscopy data indicate ischemia occurred within 2 minutes of the initiation of retrograde perfusion. Conclusions. This study suggests that retrograte normothermic blood cardioplegia causes a transition of the myocardium to ischemic metabolism in the normal porcine heart.
Evaluation of automated glucose oxidase methods for serum glucose: Comparison to hexokinase of a colorimetric and an electrometric method

Abstract Two automated glucose oxidase methods have been evaluated with respect to accuracy, precision, recovery, linearity and various potential interferences. Trinder's method on an AutoAnalyzer II had a between-day coefficient of variation (C.V.) of 2.6% (mean 228 mg/dl), was linear to 500 mg/dl, and produced a mean recovery of 99.7%. Comparison of Trinder's method with a manual, blanked hexokinase method yielded the regression equation: TR = − 1.95 + HEX (1.04); Spearman's rho correlation coefficient was: 0.974. The Beckman System I glucose method had a between-day C.V. of 1.6% (mean 198 mg/dl), was linear to 500 mg/dl, and recovered an average of 98.0% of added glucose. Comparison with the same hexokinase method yielded: SYI = 1.27 + HEX (1.02): Spearman's rho = 0.991. None of the possible interfering compounds tested caused significant deviation of results by either method within the range of concentrations encountered physiologically. Trinder's method on the AutoAnalyzer II and the System I method are accurate, precise methods and are highly recommended for routine use in the clinical laboratory.
Pheochromocytoma induced cardiogenic shock with rapid recovery of ventricular function.

Pheochromocytoma is a rare cause of secondary hypertension. It may present atypically as cardiogenic shock with significant morbidity and mortality. We present a patient in cardiogenic shock dependant on an intra-aortic balloon pump and vasopressor support who completely recovered cardiac function within 96 h of hospitalization.
Correlates of self-rated health in the elderly.

The relationship between self-rated health status and age group, gender, self-reported number of physical symptoms, functional capacity and level of activity was explored in a group of 133 elderly subjects ranging in age from 57 to 85 years. Self-rating of health was found to be a useful measure of health status, which is highly related to a number of physical symptoms and evidence of disruption in everyday functioning due to health problems. Women’s overall ratings of health were interpreted as reflecting a more optimistic appraisal of their self-ratings of health. (Aging 3: 73-77,1991)
The Plagiarism Project

Plagiarism has been a problem plaguing academia for centuries. The Internet has made it easier than ever to copy material from one electronic document and paste it into another. Many cases are unintentional, as writers are unaware of the rules regarding plagiarism. This paper provides an overview of plagiarism and describes a project in which librarians partnered with the assistant dean of a graduate science program to educate students about the perils of plagiarism and encourage ethical writing practices.
What's Ub chain linkage got to do with it?

Ubiquitination—the covalent conjugation of ubiquitin (Ub) to other cellular proteins—regulates a wide range of cellular processes. Often, multiple Ub molecules are added to the substrate to form a Ub chain. Distinct outcomes have been observed for substrates modified with multi-Ub chains linked through particular lysine residues. However, recent studies suggest that Ub chain linkages may not be the key determinant for substrate fate. Here, we review evidence suggesting that Ub-binding proteins play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of substrate ubiquitination. In fulfilling their functions in proteasome-mediated proteolysis or signaling, Ub receptors link ubiquitinated proteins to downstream molecules through protein-protein interactions. Studies of Ub-binding factors may therefore hold the key to understanding the diverse functions of the Ub molecule.
He-3, Pierre Morel and Me—Early Work on Anisotropic Superfluidity

The idea that there are alternative, anisotropic solutions of BCS equations, which might apply to He-3, surfaced independently in at least three places, one of which was Pierre Morel’s thesis project (for the ENS, under me at Bell Labs) I was skeptical of quantitative estimates of transition temperatures and instead focused, with Pierre, on conceptual and experimental properties of such states.
In situ Sea Ice Experiments in McMurdo Sound: Cyclic Loading, Fracture, and Acoustic Emissions

The breakup of first-year sea ice plays an important role in the dynamics and thermodynamics of polar ice covers. A recent research program has studied the in situ mechanical properties of the annual ice in Antarctica to support the development of physically based models of the breakup process. As part of this effort, two field trips were conducted to McMurdo Sound, and the present paper describes the experimental work and presents selected results. The in situ experiments investigated the constitutive and fracture behavior of edge-notched, square plate specimens of first-year ice and involved a detailed characterization of the physical properties and thermal state of the ice. Acoustic emissions, which are generated by microcracking, were monitored in the crack tip vicinity and provide insight regarding the size of the process zone. The paper describes the physical properties and microstructure of the sheet, the cyclic-loading response, and the acoustic emissions activity from an extensive series of experiments conducted on one of the in situ specimens. Varying the cyclic-loading frequency and amplitude provided a means to examine rate effects on the anelastic and viscous components of strain and the extent of microcracking near the crack tip. The viscous deformation rate estimated from the experiments exhibited an increasing power-law exponent with values between one and three. Acoustic emissions monitoring indicated that microcracking occurred in a process zone near the crack tip, and the size of the process zone increased with decreasing cyclic loading frequency. Practical aspects of the experiments are considered, and the results are put into context with the overall modeling goals of the project.
Fabrication and control of an electrostatically levitated rotating gyro

There are significant efforts to develop gyroscopes using MEMS technology; accuracies of gyroscopes varying from rate-grade, through tactical-grade, to inertial grade. The random walk varies from 0.5 °/√h through 0.05 °/√h to 0.001 °/√h. The most common approach is to use vibratory gyros, which use mechanical elements (proof-mass) to sense the rotation. There are several types of vibratory gyroscopes now commercially available from Robert Bosch, BEI Syrtron Donner, Silicon Sensing Systems, MEMSens, and Analog Devices. Any higher accuracy gyroscopes require a rotating disk which is electrostatic levitated and spun. This device also does not have bearings and with large spinning velocity very high accuracy can be obtained. There are two publicly known attempts to develop MEMS rotating gyroscopes, one in Japan by the group associated with Tokimec and a similar concept is being developed in Europe led by M. Kraft. The European approach has more theoretical character. At AMNSTC we developed and fabricated another rotating gyroscope, which differs from the Tokimec design in several ways: three instead of four levitation electrodes are used, new 6 phase or 4 phase spinning concepts are implemented, better layout of vertical electrodes was used, new concept of vias were developed, and new fabrication method was developed, which used standard MEMS processing with as few as 5 masking steps, allowing the realization of low cost inertial measurement systems. Several batches of gyroscopes were fabricated and measured.
Solution, interfacial, and membrane properties of gramicidin A.

Abstract On the basis of the calculated magnitude of the unidirectional flux through a gramicidin channel, it was predicted that a single conducting event should be sufficient to release trapped 22 Na + or 42 K + from phospholipid vesicles with a consequent apparent loss of K + Na + ion selectivity. In support of this prediction, the introduction of gramicidin to the bathing solution of phospholipid vesicles containing trapped 22 Na + or 42 K + led to a release of vesicle contents which was consistent with the expectation that, for each gramicidin dimer present, the contents of approximately one vesicle are released. The predicted apparent loss of K + Na + selectivity was also observed. Evidence was also presented suggesting some movement of gramicidin from vesicle to vesicle. The fluorescent intensity of gramicidin decreases with time when added to aqueous solutions at very low concentrations. It is proposed that this is a consequence of the extremely low solubility of gramicidin in water. On the basis of area per molecule calculations at the air-water interface, it was argued that the most likely conformation of gramicidin existing at the air-water interface, of those proposed in the literature, was that of Π L,D 6 helix.
Pharmacokinetics of oral pimobendan in healthy cats.

Abstract Objective To describe the pharmacokinetics of oral pimobendan in healthy cats. Animals 18 purpose-bred cats. Methods In 10 cats, blood samples were collected before, and at multiple time points after, a single oral dose of pimobendan (0.28 ± 0.04 mg/kg). In 8 cats, blood samples were collected at 3 various time points on the first and third days of twice daily oral dosing of pimobendan for a total of 7 doses (0.31 ± 0.04 mg/kg). Plasma concentrations of pimobendan were quantified by high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Results A 1-compartment open model with first order absorption in and elimination from the central compartment with a lag time best describes the disposition of pimobendan. Two cats were removed from final pharmacokinetic descriptive analysis due to delayed minimal absorption from gastrointestinal adverse effects. After a lag time (0.3 ± 0.06 h), pimobendan was rapidly absorbed (absorption half-life = 0.2 ± 0.08 h) and eliminated (elimination half-life = 1.3 ± 0.2 h). Maximum plasma concentrations (34.50 ± 6.59 ng/mL) were high and were predicted 0.9 h after drug administration. Apparent volume of distribution at steady state (per bioavailability) was large (8.2 ± 2.5 L/kg). The multi-dose study showed the pharmacokinetic model to be robust. Conclusion When administered a similar dose on a per weight basis, pimobendan has a substantially longer elimination half-life and maximal drug plasma concentration in cats as compared to those previously reported in dogs.
Automation of Linear Tolerance Charts and Extension to Statistical Tolerance Analysis

Manual construction of tolerance charts is a popular technique for analyzing tolerance accumulation in parts and assemblies. But this technique has some limitations: (1) it only deals with the worst-case analysis, and not statistical analysis (2) it is time-consuming and errorprone (3) it considers variations in only one direction at a time, i.e. radial or linear. This paper proposes a method to automate 1-D tolerance charting, based on the ASU GD&T global model and to add statistical tolerance analysis functionality to the charting analysis. The automation of tolerance charting involves automation of stackup loop detection, automatic application of the rules for chart construction and determination of the closed form function for statistical analysis. The automated analysis considers both dimensional and geometric tolerances defined as per the ASME Y14.5 – 1994 standard at part and assembly level. The implementation of a prototype charting analysis system is described and two case studies are presented to demonstrate the approach.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Closing the Global Water Vapor Budget with AIRS Water Vapor, MERRA Reanalysis, TRMM and GPCP Precipitation, and GSSTF Surface Evaporation

AbstractThe authors investigate if atmospheric water vapor from remote sensing retrievals obtained from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder/Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit (AIRS) and the water vapor budget from the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Modern Era Retrospective-analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) are physically consistent with independently synthesized precipitation data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) or the Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) and evaporation data from the Goddard Satellite-based Surface Turbulent Fluxes (GSSTF). The atmospheric total water vapor sink (Σ) is estimated from AIRS water vapor retrievals with MERRA winds (AIRS–MERRA Σ) as well as directly from the MERRA water vapor budget (MERRA–MERRA Σ). The global geographical distributions as well as the regional wavelet amplitude spectra of Σ are then compared with those of TRMM or GPCP precipitation minus GSSTF surface evaporation (TRMM–GSSTF and GPCP–GSSTF P − E, respectively)....
Bioprospecting for Microbial Endophytes and Their Natural Products

Endophytic microorganisms are to be found in virtually every plant on earth. These organisms reside in the living tissues of the host plant and do so in a variety of relationships, ranging from symbiotic to slightly pathogenic. Because of what appears to be their contribution to the host plant, the endophytes may produce a plethora of substances of potential use to modern medicine, agriculture, and industry. Novel antibiotics, antimycotics, immunosuppressants, and anticancer compounds are only a few examples of what has been found after the isolation, culture, purification, and characterization of some choice endophytes in the recent past. The potential prospects of finding new drugs that may be effective candidates for treating newly developing diseases in humans, plants, and animals are great.