cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Androgen-induced norepinephrine release mediating guinea pig seminal vesicle smooth muscle proliferation: potential role of pre-synaptic alpha2-adrenoceptors.

BACKGROUND Recent studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that androgen-induced basal norepinephrine (NE) release is responsible for the onset of proliferation in seminal vesicle smooth muscle (SVM) cells during early puberty. With subsequent sexual maturation, SVM was irreversibly differentiated to an androgen-resistant-amitotic state in which basal NE release remained elevated and resistant to androgen withdrawal or repletion. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that this irreversible elevation of basal NE release during pubertal development is caused, at least in part, by the down-regulation of pre-synaptic NE feedback inhibition, secondary to irreversible reduction in the expression of neuronal (pre-synaptic) α2-adrenoceptors. Functional α2-adrenoceptors are selectively localized to pre-synaptic sites in SVM. METHODS To test this hypothesis, we employed ligand binding techniques with [3H]RX821002, an antagonist which labeled all α2-adrenoceptor sub-types. Initial experiments focused on analysis of competitor specificity to identify the predominant α2-adrenoceptor sub-type in SVM. Subsequently, we quantified the changes in the receptor concentration (Bmax) for [3H]RX821002 at the point of maximal dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced change in basal NE release. RESULTS Based on competitor specificity for [3H]RX821002, the α2D-adrenoceptor sub-type predominated in SVM. We treated pre-pubertal castrate animals with DHT for 7 days, which was previously demonstrated to maximally induce basal NE release. This treatment reduced the pre-synaptic α2-adrenoceptor Bmax 4-fold. In animals which had been castrated as adults, the Bmax for [3H]RX821002 remained irreversibly suppressed. CONCLUSIONS The DHT-dependent reduction in the α2-adrenoceptor concentration is consistent with the developmental pattern of increased basal NE release. These findings support the hypothesis that the down-regulation of pre-synaptic NE feedback is mechanistically involved in the irreversible elevation of basal NE release. NE mediates proliferation in SVM in early pubertal development. Thus, the androgen-dependent pubertal growth of smooth muscle cells may be indirectly controlled at the level of neurotransmission. Prostate 57: 51–56, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Secular changes in standards of bodily attractiveness in women: tests of a reproductive model.

Objective Since success at work is favored by a more slender body build while reproduction is favored by curvaceousness, standards of women's bodily attractiveness should be predictable from economic and reproductive variables. Method: This hypothesis was tested in a replication and extension of a study by Silverstein, Perdue, Peterson, Vogel, and Fantini (1986) which looked at correlates of curvaceousness of Vogue models over time. Results: As economic prosperity increased, and as women's participation in the economy, and higher education, increased, curvaceousness of the standards declined. As the proportion of single women to men, both aged 20–24 years, increased, and as the birth rate declined, curvaceousness was reduced. Discussion: Results suggest that cultural standards of attractiveness are influenced by an evolved psychology of mate selection. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 23: 449–454, 1998.
Targeting Intergovernmental Aid to Local Schools: an Analysis of Federal and State Efforts

Students of public policy have long been interested in redistribution. Especially in a political system permitting some degree of decentralization, the question often becomes which level of government should assist the poor (Ladd and Doolittle 1982). Economic theory favors the national government, with its broader geographic scope and more progressive tax system. Yet many argue that the states are closer to local problems and thus best suited to reallocate financial resources. Although a growing body of research has begun to address this issue (see, for example, Dye and Hurley 1978; Rafter 1985; Stephens and Olson 1981; Ward 1981), very little appears comparing the relative targeting effectiveness of the national government and the states in the area of aid to local public schools. The purpose here is to help fill this research gap by comparing state and federal targeting of intergovernmental assistance to a large number of local school districts across the United States.
Influence of boundary conditions, specimen geometry and material heterogeneity on model calibration from triaxial tests

The recent capability of measuring full-field deformations using advanced imaging techniques provides the opportunity to improve the predictive ability of computational soil mechanics. This paper investigates the effects of imperfect initial specimen geometry, platen-soil and apparatus compliance, and material heterogeneity on the constitutive model calibration process from triaxial tests with nonlubricated platens. The technique of 3D-Digital Image Correlation (3D-DIC) was used to measure, from digital images, full-field displacements over sand specimen surfaces throughout triaxial compression tests, as well as actual specimen initial shape, and deformations associated with platen and apparatus compliance and bedding settlement. The difference between predicted and observed 3D specimen surface deformations served to quantify an objective function in the optimization algorithm. Four different three-dimensional finite element models (FEMs), each allowing varying degrees of material variability in the solution of the inverse problem, were used to study the effect of material heterogeneity. Results of the parametric study revealed that properly representing the actual initial specimen geometry significantly improves the optimization efficiency, and that accounting for boundary compliance can be critical for the accurate recovery of the full-field experimental displacements. Allowing for nonsymmetric material variability had the most significant impact on predicted behavior. A relatively high coefficient of variation in model parameters was found among a statistical ensemble of tests, underscoring the importance of conducting multiple tests for proper material characterization. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Circadian Nature of a Rhythm Expressed by an Invertaseless Strain of Neurospora crassa

A new strain of Neurospora crassa which exhibits a rhythm of conidiation when growing along an agar surface in a growth tube is described. The rhythm has been shown to be circadian for it meets the following criteria: A) the period under constant environmental conditions in the dark is about 24 hours (22.7 hours at 25°); B) the period is relatively temperature-independent (Q10 is between 0.95 and 1.21 for temperature range of 18 to 35°); C) the rhythm persists in continuous darkness at constant temperature for a minimum of 14 days without damping out; and D) the phase of the rhythm can be shifted by a single brief exposure to light. The sensitivity of this strain to light has been demonstrated further by the entrainment of the rhythm to a period of 24.0 hours using a suitable light-dark regime, and by the inhibition by light of the appearance of a rhythm; i.e., continuous conidiation occurs when the strain is subjected to continuous light. The new strain is compared to 2 other strains of Neurospora which also express a rhythm, patch and clock.
Dimensions in the development of bipolar disorder.

n the past decade, convergent findings from neuroimaging, asic, postmortem, and behavioral research have advanced nderstanding of the cortico-limbic neural circuitry involved in ipolar disorder (BD). The amygdala, ventral striatum, and entral prefrontal cortex (VPFC) emerge as important in the isorder’s core disturbances in the regulation of emotions and otivated behavior. Deficits have also been reported in conected structures, including hippocampus and dorsolateral prerontal cortex, which are implicated in the mnemonic and xecutive dysfunction present in some individuals with BD. uring the past 10 years, as indicated by Blader and Carlson pages 107–114, in this issue), rates of diagnosing BD have also ncreased sharply especially in youth. This underscores the mportance of directing research efforts toward the challenging linical issues of BD, including the need for markers that might elp to differentiate BD from other psychiatric disorders and the dentification of factors that contribute to shifts in illness expresion over the lifespan, heterogeneity of symptoms, and high rates f comorbidity. In response, an intensive effort in the field of euroimaging research is aimed at understanding the developent of cortico-limbic abnormalities in BD and how genetic and nvironmental factors might influence the development of speific features of the illness. The developmental trajectory for expression of regional brain bnormalities in BD might help to reveal their underlying athophysiological mechanisms and how these differ from other isorders. Structural and functional abnormalities in the subcorical amygdala and ventral striatum have been reported in hildren and adults with BD, with amygdala volume deficits in dolescents with BD among the most consistent findings reorted in BD (Blumberg et al. 2003a, 2003b; Chang et al. 2005; hen et al. 2004; Delbello et al. 2004; Dickstein et al. 2005). owever, both increases and decreases in amygdala volume ave been reported in adults with BD (Altshuler et al. 2000; lumberg et al. 2003a; Pearlson et al. 1997; Strakowski et al. 999). One explanation for this discontinuity is that adolescentnset BD may be a separable phenotype associated with amygala volume deficits. It is, however, also possible that amygdala bnormalities are consistent early abnormalities in the disorder ut that episodes and/or exposures may influence amygdala olumes over time. The VPFC findings in BD present a contrastng pattern of more consistent findings in adults than adolescents ith the disorder. Although age-dependent inferences about BD ust be viewed cautiously, because they have been drawn rimarily from cross-sectional studies, Blumberg et al. (2003b, 006) suggest that disturbances in the development of VPFC uring adolescence might lead to an increasing divergence in its tructure and function during this epoch that contributes to the dult phenotype. This model suggests that BD might be espeially difficult to differentiate from other disorders of affect and mpulse regulation in childhood, because the full, prototypical
Social-Unit Analysis as a Framework for Research in Environmental and Social Psychology

The present discussion examines some of the theoretical assumptions implicit in Altman's (1976) concept of social-unit analysis. These assumptions are considered in relation to Miller, Galanter, and Pribram's (1960) "TOTE" model of human behavior and the concept of human-environment optimization (Stokols, in press). An attempt is made to specify certain core concerns of the environ ment and behavior field, and to examine the potential contribution of social psychology to an analysis of these concerns.
Water and Radiation Use Efficiencies in Sorghum

Increasing water and radiation use efficiencies (WUE and RUE, respectively) are critical to enhance crop production. Exploring genetic variability in WUE and RUE is necessary to improve these traits. The objectives of this research were to evaluate eight sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] genotypes for biomass production, WUE, and RUE and to test whether the differences in WUE among sorghum genotypes were associated with increased biomass production or decreased water use under field conditions. The WUE was estimated as the slope of the regression of aboveground biomass on cumulative water use for specified sampling intervals. The RUE was estimated as the slope of the regression of aboveground biomass on cumulative intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (IPAR). Sorghum genotypes showed significant differences in biomass production, WUE, and RUE. The WUE varied from 3.39 ± 0.80 to 5.42 ± 0.80 g kg⁻¹ in 2009 and from 4.04 ± 0.58 to 7.63 ± 0.58 g kg⁻¹ in 2010. Similarly, RUE varied from 2.13 ± 0.33 to 3.53 ± 0.31 g MJ⁻¹ IPAR in 2009 and from 2.08 ± 0.35 to 3.83 ± 0.33 g MJ⁻¹ IPAR in 2010. Among the eight sorghum genotypes tested in this study, IS 27111 and IS 27150 had the largest biomass production, WUE, and RUE. The WUE was more strongly correlated to biomass production than to water use. This result implies that it is possible to improve WUE without compromising biomass production. The sorghum genotypes evaluated for biomass production, WUE, and RUE in this study offer useful plant materials for identifying the mechanisms causing differences in these traits.
Productivity and Staffing of Hospital Units with Uncertainty in the Demand for Service

Abstract Many hospital departments have the unique problem that they have to get all of their work done on the day it is ordered, but have no control over demand. Methodologies which are readily understandable to Finance and Management Engineering professionals are presented to determine, under a number of policies concerning wage rates, fringe benefits, overtime, fixed or variable staffing and staff size, the expected productivity and weekly budgets.
Transforming growth factor beta induces caspase 3-independent cleavage of alphaII-spectrin (alpha-fodrin) coincident with apoptosis.

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a potent growth inhibitor and inducer of cell death in B-lymphocytes and is essential for immune regulation and maintenance of self-tolerance. In this report the mouse immature B cell line, WEHI 231, was used to examine the mechanisms involved in TGF-β-mediated apoptosis. Induction of apoptosis is detected as early as 8 h after TGF-β administration. Coincident with the onset of apoptosis, the cytoskeletal actin-binding protein, αII-spectrin (α-fodrin) is cleaved into 150-, 115-, and 110-kDa fragments. The broad spectrum caspase inhibitor (Boc-D-fmk (BD-fmk)) completely abolished TGF-β-induced apoptosis and αII-spectrin cleavage. Caspase 3, although present in WEH1 231 cells, was not activated by TGF-β, nor was its substrate, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. These results identify αII-spectrin as a novel substrate that is cleaved during TGF-β-induced apoptosis. Our data provide the first evidence of calpain and caspase 3-independent cleavage of αII-spectrin during apoptosis and suggests that TGF-β induces apoptosis and αII-spectrin cleavage via a potentially novel caspase. This report also provides the first direct evidence of caspase 3 activation in WEH1 231 cells and indicates that at least two distinct apoptotic pathways exist.
Comparison of nerve regeneration in vascularized and conventional grafts: nerve electrophysiology, norepinephrine, prostacyclin, malondialdehyde, and the blood-nerve barrier.

We compared the efficacy of vascularized (VASC) and conventional (CONV) sciatic nerve grafts in restoring nerve blood flow (NBF). conduction, the blood-nerve barrier, norepinephrine (NE), and 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (6-KPGF; the stable prostacyclin metabolite) in the sciatic nerve of the rat. We also measured malondialdehyde (MDA) content. NBF was much greater in VASC grafts, but the increase was confined to non-nutritive flow. There was a statistically non-significant increase in nerve action potential amplitude in the grafted segments of VASC nerves at 1 and 2 months post graft. The [14C]sucrose permeability surface area (PA) product was increased in both CONV and VASC at 1 and 3 months and was not different to each other. NE and 6-KPGF, the major vasoconstrictor and dilator of nerve microvessels were better restored in VASC than CONV reaching statistically significance for 6-KPGF (P < 0.001). MDA used as an index of oxygen free radical generation was not significantly different in the 3 groups. The better restoration of 6-KPGF and perhaps NE suggest that VASC grafts may be more effective in restoring vasoreactivity of peripheral nerve following graft.
Biodegradation during Contaminant Transport in Porous Media. 2. The Influence of Physicochemical Factors

The biodegradation of contaminants in the subsurface has become a topic of great interest. In systems wherein biodegradation is coupled with transport, the magnitude and rate of biodegradation is influenced not only by microbial properties but also by physicochemical properties. The purpose of this work is to systematically evaluate the impact of coupled physicochemical factors (residence time, substrate concentration, and electron-acceptor concentra tion) on the biodegradation of contaminants during transport in porous media. A suite of miscible-displacement experiments was conducted with different residence times and initial contaminant concentrations, using a petroleum-contaminated aquifer material and benzoate as a model compound. The results were evaluated using a framework developed from a mathematical analysis of the nondimensional parameters that control biodegradation during transport. The results show that the type of transport behavior observed is dependent upon system conditions and is predict...
Tarsocrural Arthroscopy for Osteochondrosis Dissecans: Clinical Features of a Referral Hospital Population and Prevalence of Abnormalities within the Plantar Pouch

Reasons for performing study There is limited information on tarsocrural arthroscopy for osteochondrosis dissecans lesions (OCD) in Great Britain, and routine examination of the plantar pouch has not been described. Objectives To describe clinical features of cases undergoing tarsocrural arthroscopy for OCD and estimate the prevalence of abnormalities within the plantar pouch. Study design Retrospective case review. Methods Case records of all horses that had tarsocrural arthroscopy for OCD at Rossdales Equine Hospital between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2013 were included (n = 99). Descriptive data and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were constructed in Microsoft Excel. Results Warmbloods/Warmblood-crosses were significantly over-represented compared to the normal hospital population, comprising 42.4% (CI 32.7–52.2%) of the study (P<0.001), followed by Thoroughbreds/Thoroughbred-crosses (33.7%, CI 25.0–43.7%), 22 other horse breeds and one pony. Cases were predominantly male (70.7%, CI 63.6–81.3%) with 48.5% geldings, 19.2% colts and 3.0% stallions. Median age was 2.9 years (0.1–13.5 years) and median weight was 523 kg (112–919 kg). Most were nonracing sports horses (40.4%, CI 30.7–50.1%), or unbroken (27.0%, CI 18.5–36.0%) with the remainder used for breeding, general purpose or racing. Reasons for presentation were lameness (52.7%, CI 42.5–63.0%), effusion (36.3%, CI 26.4–46.1%), or survey radiographs (11.0%, CI 4.6–17.4%). Tarsocrural arthroscopy was most frequently performed bilaterally (41.8%, CI 32.1–51.6%), followed by left hind (35.7%, CI 26.2–45.2%), then right hind (22.4%, CI 14.2–30.7%). Irrespective of pathology in the dorsal pouch, examination of the plantar pouch was performed in 70 joints (50 horses), and in 78.0% (CI 66.5–89.5%) abnormalities were found. Of these, 10 required removal of organised fibrinous debris or osteochondral fragments (25.6% CI 11.9–39.3%), none of which were recorded using diagnostic imaging presurgery. Conclusions Investigation of the plantar pouch is indicated in routine tarsocrural arthroscopy for OCD as it often reveals additional pathology, which may necessitate surgical intervention. Further work will evaluate how plantar pouch pathology may influence prognosis. Ethical animal research: Ethical approval obtained, project number AHT48-2013. Explicit informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: C.E.W. is supported by The Margaret Giffen Trust. Competing interests: None.
State-Space Modeling of Dynamic Psychological Processes via the Kalman Smoother Algorithm: Rationale, Finite Sample Properties, and Applications

This article presents a state-space modeling (SSM) technique for fitting process factor analysis models directly to raw data. The Kalman smoother via the expectation-maximization algorithm to obtain maximum likelihood parameter estimates is used. To examine the finite sample properties of the estimates in SSM when common factors are involved, a Monte Carlo study is conducted. Results indicate that the estimates of factor loading matrix, transition matrix, and unique variances were asymptotically normal, accurate, precise, and robust, especially for moderate and long time series. The estimates of state residual variances were positively biased for shorter time series, but as the length of series increased, these estimates became accurate and precise. To illustrate the application of SSM the technique is applied to empirical multivariate time-series data on daily affect collected from 2 individuals in a dating couple.
Sensitivity of the Patient-rated Forearm Evaluation Questionnaire in Lateral Epicondylitis

The purpose of this study was to examine the sensitivity, reliability, and concurrent validity of the Patient-rated Forearm Evaluation Questionnaire (PRFEQ). Reliability on three consecutive days was evaluated with 22 of 94 subjects who had chronic lateral epicondylitis (LE) and who concomitantly participated in an outcome study. The PRFEQ results were compared with results of the Visual Analogue Scale; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire; the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey; and the pain-free grip strength measurement. Questionnaires were completed at baseline, six weeks, and 12 weeks. Reliability was excellent using variance components and interclass correlation coefficients (PRFEQ function subscale, 0.92; PRFEQ pain subscale, 0.96; PRFEQ total scale, 0.96). Generally, correlations were moderate between the PRFEQ subscales and total scale and the other outcome scales. Effect size and standardized response mean were good in many outcome scales, being slightly higher in the PRFEQ than in the other outcome measures. The PRFEQ is reliable, reproducible, and sensitive for assessment of LE. It is at least as sensitive to change as the other outcome tools tested. The PRFEQ should be a standard primary outcome measure in LE research.
Universal binding-energy relation in chemisorption

We have discovered a universal relationship between chemisorbed-atom\char22{}metal-substrate interaction energies and separation distances. For a variety of adatoms and substrates, the adatom binding energy as a function of the distance between the adatom and metal surface has been accurately determined by a simple scaling of the universal relationship. We also reveal an accurate, simple relationship between the electron-number density distributions at jellium surfaces and the bulk electron density.
Time-resolved fluorescence spectra and energy-resolved decays of vibronically coupled electronic states: effects of solvent relaxation on the excited-state dynamics of thioxanthone

Abstract Time-resolved fluorescence spectra and energy-resolved fluorescence decays of thioxanthone in fluid solutions are presented which demonstrate the importance of solvent relaxation in determining photophysical properties of thioxanthone via its effect on S 2 (nπ * )-Si(ππ * ) vibronic coupling.
Thermal oxidation of InAs

Abstract The growth rate and chemical composition of thermally grown oxides on 〈111〉 InAs are presented. The oxide was found to grow very slowly at 350°C but the growth was rapid at 450 °C. The oxides grown at 350 °C contained approximately equal concentrations of As2O3 and In2O3 and no detectable elemental arsenic. The As2O3 concentration decreased and the elemental arsenic concentration increased with increasing growth temperature. The oxides were amorphous unless the growth temperature was 475 °C or above.
Evaluating the gains from international risksharing

Abstract Cross-country evidence on consumption, income, saving, and investment indicates that there remain opportunities for international risksharing. One explanation for the lack of global risksharing is that the gains are not sufficient to offset even small frictions. This paper evaluates the utility gains from risksharing under different assumptions about market structure, country size, technology, and preferences. I find that the gains from risksharing range from zero to two percent of lifetime consumption. When countries are able to “self-insure” by adjusting labor supply and investment, the gains from risksharing are insignificantly different from zero.
On group assessment of utility and worth attributes using interpretive structural modeling

Abstract This paper develops a special purpose interpretive structural modeling methodology to determine single sink digraph tree structures for attribute assessment. Rather than force group response into a single sink structure the procedure allows a group to adapt a set of initially defined set of attribute elements to one for which a single sink structure is acceptable to the group. The single sink digraph structure is a vitally important one for decision and policy analysis as well as project selection and other areas. The results in this paper appear to be more efficient in utilization of group effort in determination of a structure for these important problems as contrasted with previous efforts using a general form of interpretive structural modeling.
Quadriceps femoris electromyogram during concentric, isometric and eccentric phases of fatiguing dynamic knee extensions

Abstract The objective of this study was to examine the superficial quadriceps femoris (QF) muscle electromyogram (EMG) during fatiguing knee extensions. Thirty young adults were evaluated for their one-repetition maximum (1RM) during a seated, right-leg, inertial knee extension. All subjects then completed a single set of repeated knee extensions at 50% 1RM, to failure. Subjects performed a knee extension (concentric phase), held the weight with the knee extended for 2 s (isometric phase), and lowered the weight in a controlled manner (eccentric phase). Raw EMG of the vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL) and rectus femoris (RF) muscles were full-wave rectified, integrated and normalized to the 1RM EMG, for each respective phase and repetition. The EMG median frequency ( f med ) was computed during the isometric phase. An increase in QF muscle EMG was observed during the concentric phase across the exercise duration. VL EMG was greater than the VM and RF muscles during the isometric phase, in which no significant changes occurred in any of the muscles across the exercise duration. A significant decrease in EMG across the exercise duration was observed during the eccentric phase, with the VL EMG greater than the VM and RF muscles. A greater decrease in VL and RF muscle f med during the isometric phase, than the VM muscle, was observed with no gender differences. The findings demonstrated differential recruitment of the superficial QF muscle, depending on the contraction mode during dynamic knee extension exercise, where VL muscle dominance appears to manifest across the concentric–isometric–eccentric transition.
Functional mandibular reconstruction of patients with oral cancer

For the patient with oral cancer who has undergone quadrant resection, mandibular reconstruction provides normalization of the lower facial contour, regained architectural support, and reestablishment of occlusal relationships. Reconstruction with vascularized bone offers the most rapid rehabilitation. Replacement of dentition provides improved deglutition, mastication, and speech. In eligible patients the use of osteointegrated implants can provide rigid stabilization for dental prostheses. In previous studies these implants were placed in a secondary procedure. In the present study microvascular mandibular reconstruction was combined with primary placement of osteointegrated implants in the treatment of seven patients. Preliminary results indicate that the combination of procedures can provide more rapid and effective rehabilitation for the patient with cancer. Issues for further study are also identified.
Immunochemical characterization of polylysine conjugates containing reductively aminated cellulose oligosaccharides

Neoglycoproteins prepared by direct reductive amination of cellobiose, cellotetraose and cellopentaose to polylysine, were found to be effective antigens in rabbits, and the antisera were found by quantitative inhibition techniques to be predominantly hapten specific. Several analogs incorporating various structural features of the carbohydrate hapten were synthesized and examined as inhibitors of the precipition reaction between the neoglycoproteins and homologous antisera in order to identify those structural features of the hapten important in antibody recognition. Antibodies to the reductively aminated cellobiose-polylysine conjugate were found to recognize the terminal β-glucopyranosyl residue, theacyclic reduced glucose residue, and the secondary ammonium linkage and methylene arm of the lysyl residue of the hapten. Antibodies to the cellotetraose-polylysine conjugate, in contrast, displayed no recognition for the secondary ammonium linkage region; they were found to recognize the non-reducing terminal β-glucopyranosyl residue, the two internal β1,4-linked glucopyranosyl residues, and the reducing end glucose residue in anacyclic orcyclic form. Inhibition studies with antisera to the cellopentaose-polylysine conjugate again established that there was no recognition of the secondary ammonium linkage region, and demonstrated that the upper limit to the size, of the antibody combining site was four β1,4-linked glucopyranosyl residues.
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of risperidone augmentation for patients with difficult-to-treat unipolar, non-psychotic major depression.

Objective Patients (30–50%) with non-psychotic major depression will not respond despite an adequate trial of antidepressant medication. This study evaluated risperidone as an augmenting agent for patients who failed or only partially responded to an adequate trial of an antidepressant medication.
Systems for Monte Carlo work

With the proliferation of computers has come a proliferation of simulation. Monte Carlo experiments can now be run by a vast range of programs from simple. Basic environments to spreadsheets: yet little attention has been paid to the problem of designing a system to do Monte Carlo problems. The ideas for a system described in this paper not only simplifies the problem of programming a Monte Carlo experiment but also attempts to maintain standards of experimental design and to encourage careful analysis.
Selenocysteine-containing proteins from rat and monkey plasma

This investigation was carried out to determine whether a selenium-containing plasma protein in rat and monkey (Macaca mulata) plasma might be involved in selenium transport. Injection of [75Se]selenite or [75Se]selenomethionine was used to label a plasma protein. The native molecular weight of the protein from rat and monkey plasma was determined by gel filtration to be about 80 000. The molecular weight of a selenium-containing polypeptide prepared from the protein was about 45 000, as determined by gel filtration in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Selenium was attached to both the rat and monkey plasma protein in the form of the amino acid selenocysteine. The proportion of plasma selenium normally bound to the rat protein in vivo was less than 5%, and the half-life of selenium bound to the protein was a few hours. These findings are consistent with a selenium-transport function for this protein.
Accuracy of casts generated from dual-arch impressions

Abstract Statement of problem. Dual-arch trays are often used to make simultaneous impressions of a prepared tooth and the opposing teeth. Many dentists are concerned with the accuracy of the casts generated from this type of impression. Purpose. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the accuracy of stone casts of a prepared tooth generated using 2 types of dual-arch impression tray/impression material combinations. Material and methods. The maxillary left first molar on a dentoform mounted on an articulator was prepared for a full-coverage gold crown. Ten impressions were made with either a plastic (P) or metal (M) tray and a polyether (PE) or vinyl polysiloxane (VPS) impression material. Each impression was cast in improved dental stone, and the buccolingual dimension of the die was measured at the midpoint of the buccal and lingual gingival margins. The prepared tooth (T) served as the control. The data were analyzed using a 2-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) α=.05. Results. The P/VPS combination (10.673 mm) produced the largest die, followed by P/PE (10.602), T (10.508), M/PE (10.484), and M/VPS (10.472). The 2-factor ANOVA showed a significant difference between the tray types but not between the impression materials. Conclusion. The metal trays produced dies smaller than the tooth, and the plastic trays produced dies that were larger. (J Prosthet Dent 2000;84:403-7.)
A novel multifunctional labeling reagent for enhanced protein characterization with mass spectrometry

Individual peptides with lysine at the C-terminus as well as protein tryptic digests were reacted with 2-methoxy-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole, converting lysine residues to their 4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl derivatives. The mass spectra of derivatized digests exhibit a greater number of more intense features than their underivatized counterparts, thus increasing the information obtained in peptide mapping experiments. Additionally, MS/MS spectra of the derivatized peptides are greatly simplified in comparison to their native species, yielding primarily an easily interpretable series of y-ions. Finally, this novel label also enables differential quantitation studies, as a stable isotopic form containing four deuterium atoms can readily be produced.
A deep knowledge planning decision support system for aiding nuclear waste transportation decisions

Abstract Planners and public policy makers in recent years have become increasingly concerned with issues related to nuclear waste transportation. Rational planning and policy for nuclear waste transportation depends upon systematically assimilating into a coherent and meaningful whole, diverse information at several levels of analysis. The authors describe and demonstrate the rudiments of a deep knowledge architecture for evaluating alternative nuclear waste transshipment possibilities.
Cryptic miliary tuberculosis with a clinical prodrome resembling pancreatitis

Summary The diagnosis of miliary tuberculosis (TB) may be a challenging task for the physician. Pancreatitis is an extremely rare presentation of miliary TB. A healthy 31-year-old American male was admitted because of severe nausea, anorexia, malaise and night sweat for 4 days. He was febrile and his physical examination was unremarkable. The chest X-ray (CXR) was normal and the computed tomographic (CT) evaluation of the abdomen was consistent with pancreatitis. On the 12th day in the hospital, he complained of dyspnea and his chest CT showed bilateral ground-glass opacities. Subsequent bronchoscopy was not diagnostic. Open lung biopsy (OLBx) revealed multiple necrotizing granulomas. The patient responded to antituberculous therapy and was discharged home 3 weeks later. Miliary TB is a curable disease, which can take many forms. A high index of clinical suspicion and diagnostic persistence are required for diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment of miliary TB nurtures better outcomes.
Tumor suppressor activity of neural cell adhesion molecule in colon carcinoma

Abstract Background and Aims Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule (NCAM) is a well-characterized member of the immunoglobin superfamily. The structure of NCAM is similar to the tumor suppressor Deleted in Colon Carcinoma (DCC). NCAM has been found in some epithelial tissues and plays a role in tumorigenesis of some cancers. The purpose of the present study was to determine if NCAM is present in normal human colon. Once its presence was established, its function as a tumor suppressor was investigated. Methods: Colon tumors and normal proximal margins were processed for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of the NCAM-180 message. Immunohistochemistry of the tissue was performed to determine the distribution of NCAM. Results RT-PCR analysis demonstrated the presence of the NCAM-180 kD isoform in normal colonic epithelia. Immunohistochemistry showed NCAM on the basolateral surface of colonic epithelial cells of the villous tips. Tumors from 15 patients followed up for 4 years were studied. All seven tumors expressing NCAM-180 were from patients having a benign clinical course. Seven of eight tumors that lacked NCAM-180 were associated with aggressive clinical behaviors (presenting with obstruction, perforation or metastatic disease, or patient death within 18 months of presentation). The sole exception was in a villous adenoma excised from a patient who has had multiply recurrent polyps on follow-up. Conclusion We conclude that like DCC, NCAM is an important colonic adhesion molecule that functions as a tumor suppressor.
Complete nucleotide sequence of the Marek's disease virus ICP4 gene.

Abstract The Marek's disease virus (MDV) gene encoding a homologue to the ICP4 protein of herpes simplex virus has been mapped to Bam HI fragment A based on the physical map of the MDV genome (Fukuchi et al. , 1984). The gene lies completely within the inverted repeat flanking the unique short region of the genome. The complete nucleotide sequence of the MDV ICP4 gene has been determined. The coding region is 4245 nucleotides long and has an overall G + C content of 52%. The MDV ICP4 protein is predicted to have a structure similar to that of ICP4-like proteins of other herpesviruses in that it has five distinct regions, the second and fourth of which are highly conserved. In addition, the protein contains the characteristic run of serine residues located toward its amino terminus. The MDV ICP4 gene is expressed in MDV-infected chicken embryo fibroblasts.
Identification and expression profile of the ID gene family in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Abstract ID proteins are negative regulators of basic helix–loop–helix transcription factors governing growth and development in mammals. However, little is known about the ID gene function and expression in fish. We report the identification and characterization of two new rainbow trout ID genes (ID1D and ID2B) and extend our expression analyses of two previously identified ID genes (ID1A and ID2A). Phylogenetic analyses indicate an evolutionary relationship between ID1A and ID1D and between ID1B and ID1C, suggesting a mechanism of divergence throughout salmonid evolution. To access the expression of these genes in adult and developing fish, we measured the relative transcript abundance of four ID1 and two ID2 genes by real-time PCR. ID1 transcripts were expressed in a variety of tissues and the ID1 paralogues showed similar patterns of expression, whereas the ID2 paralogues were differentially expressed. To access the role of the ID genes during embryonic development, gene expression was measured at early (day 0 and day 2), mid (day 9 and day 18) and late (day 30 and day 50) embryonic development. ID1A and ID1D expression remained unchanged throughout embryonic development, while ID1B and ID1C were lowest during early, highest at mid, and decreased during late embryonic development. The ID2 transcripts revealed the highest expression in unfertilized eggs and day 2 embryos, and remained low throughout the remainder of embryonic development. The sequence analyses and gene expression patterns implicate gene and genome duplication in rainbow trout ID gene evolution and suggest an extensive role for the IDs in rainbow trout growth and development.
Influence of magnesium ion on the ultraviolet absorption of aqueous solutions of salicylic acid and related compounds.

Abstract The influence of magnesium ion on the ultraviolet absorption of salicylic acid and related compounds has been studied. Both salicylic acid and methyl salicylate are affected by the presence of magnesium ions. There is an increase in the absorption maximum, and the maximum shifts to longer wavelengths. This effect is marked only at higher pH values.
Optomechanical beam steering by surface plasmon nanoantenna

Controlling the far field pattern of the electromagnetic (EM) waves has many applications including wireless communications, radar detection, and industrial applications. The dynamic control of EM patterns is called beam steering. Despite advantages in each technique, the speed, angular range, and spectral range of beam steering is limited due to mechanical and optical properties of such systems. Here we present a beam steering method by means of an array of optomechanical nanoantennas in which the generated optical force of each antenna results in changes to the antenna response due to mechanical reconfiguration. As a result, the antenna far field phase is changed due to the mechanical movement generated by the optical force. Depending on the mechanical properties of the movable component of the antenna, the phase of the antenna can be tailored for a given optical source power. FDTD simulations are used to calculate the optical response of antenna. A phase array of optomechanical nanoantennas is used to do beam steering. The main far field lobe is steered by 0.5 degrees as a result of the mechanical reconfiguration of the phased array.
The amino acid requirements of a permanent strain of altered uterine fibroblasts (U12-705).

A permanent line of altered human fibroblasts, strain U12-705, was found to require arginine, cystine, glutamine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine for growth in a defined medium supplemented with 2.5% (v/v) dialyzed chick embryo extract and 5% dialyzed horse serum. In the absence of any of the essential amino acids the cells not only fail to proliferate but undergo degenerative changes which increased with time. The omission of alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, hydroxyproline, and proline either separately or collectively does not alter the rate of growth or result in changes in the appearance of the cells. Cysteine and glutathione are equally as effective as cystine in promoting the growth of U12-705. None of the D-enantiomorphs of the essential amino acids will effectively replace the corresponding L-isomer. Single D-amino acids are not inhibitory when added to the medium in 5 times the concentration of the L-amino acid. Th...
Transient stability enhancement by bridge type fault current limiter considering coordination with optimal reclosing of circuit breakers

Abstract This paper proposes the coordinated operation of the bridge type fault current limiter (BFCL) and optimal reclosing of circuit breakers to enhance the transient stability of a multi-machine power system. The transient stability performance of the proposed method is compared with that of the thyristor controlled series capacitor (TCSC) and the dc resistive fault current limiter (RFCL) considering the same optimal reclosing technique. The total kinetic energy (TKE) of the generators in the system is used to determine the transient stability enhancement index. Also, the critical clearing time has been presented as a stability limit. Simulations are performed by using the Matlab/Simulink software. Simulation results for both permanent and temporary faults at different points in the IEEE 30 bus power system and single-machine power system indicate that the coordinated operation of the BFCL and optimal reclosing of circuit breakers can enhance the transient stability of the system well. Also, the performance of the proposed method is better than that of the TCSC and RFCL considering the optimal reclosing technique.
The oxidation of bituminous COAL—II experimental kinetics and interpretation

Abstract An experimental kinetic study was made on the oxidation of bituminous coal and the results were used to test the mathematical model presented in Part I. Satisfactory agreement was observed between the data and the derived rate expressions, which included a proposed mechanism change above 230°C. The CO2/CO ratio at each temperature was found to be constant over a wide range of operating conditions.
Frequency analysis and the critical band

The objective of the study was to examine the performance of two groups of Ss on an auditory frequency analysis task. The groups were differentiated in terms of musical training and background. Predictions based on the assumption that frequency analysis is dependent upon the critical band were derived from two synthetically produced inharmonic complex stimuli. Results indicate that nonmusicians are inferior to professional musicians in their ability to analyze complex waveforms. The results suggest that musicians possess critical bands which are rectangular in shape and approximately 20% narrower in width than published values.
Immunofluorescent study of placental bed vessels in pre-eclampsia of pregnancy

Abstract Anti-gamma globulin and anticomplement fluorescent stains of decidual vessel lesions were positive in women with pre-eclampsia. The lesions may represent an immunopathologic process which could lead to diminished perfusion of the placenta.
Electron induced scintillation testing of commercially available optical fibers for space flight

A test to verify the performance of several commercial and military optical fibers available on the market today was conducted, via usage of an electron accelerator, to monitor radiation induced scintillation or luminescence. The test results showed that no significant effects could be detected with the PMT (Photomultiplier Tube) system used, above a noise floor of 50 photons/sec that were due to optical fiber scintillation. Although some data appeared to show events taking place, noise scan results have correlated these events to arcing inside the electron accelerator facility. This test was to simply characterize for space flight, which optical fiber candidates were the largest scintillators among the eighteen optical fiber candidates tested.
The design of a family of high-current switches with over-current and over-temperature protection

This paper describes the design and manufacture of a family of five high-current, high-voltage dc switches with over-current and over-temperature protection. The capacity of the switches ranged from 5 A, 163 V to 100 A, 400 V. Steps were taken to achieve stability in over-current and over-temperature trip thresholds with changes in supply voltage and ambient temperature. A small physical size was achieved, and the design of a ceramic and Kovar package is described. Difficulties arose in measuring circuit parameters while testing performance due to induced magnetic and electric noise, and solutions to these difficulties are discussed. In addition, difficulties achieving some of the design goals and subsequent solutions are described. Thick-film hybrid circuit processing was the chosen technology for circuit fabrication. Thermal management was a major area of design emphasis, and the use of aluminum nitride substrates in some of the networks offered a solution in maintaining output FET junction temperatures at a safe level. Suggestions for improvements are offered. It is clear that switching of many tens of kilowatts of power at high voltages with over-temperature and over-current protection is obtainable in a small package at a reasonable cost.