cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semiautomatic segmentation of brain exterior in magnetic resonance images driven by empirical procedures and anatomical knowledge

Abstract This work demonstrates encouraging results for increasing the automation of a practical and precise magnetic resonance brain image segmentation method. The intensity threshold for segmenting the brain exterior is determined automatically by locating the choroid plexus. This is done by finding peaks in a series of histograms taken over regions specified using anatomical knowledge. Intensity inhomogeneities are accounted for by adjusting the global intensity to match the white matter peak intensity in local regions. Automated results are incorporated into the established manually guided segmentation method by providing a trained expert with the automated threshold. The results from 20 different brain scans (over 1000 images) obtained under different conditions are presented to validate the method which was able to determine the appropriate threshold in ∼80% of the data.
Pumpless evaporative cooling of actively heated surfaces

Abstract In this paper we study the ability of a passive, evaporative pumping system to dissipate thermal energy from a constant heat flux source. For that, an instrumented experimental setup was built wherein a thin, flat porous membrane was placed on top of a circular copper made heater. Evaporation from the membrane continually drew distilled water from a reservoir through the system. The tests aimed to parametrically determine the effect of the heat flux dissipated by the membrane on the evaporation rate, heater temperature, and the suction pressure created by evaporation. The maximum suction pressure can ultimately be used to estimate the maximum pumping height differential between the evaporative surface and the free water surface of the reservoir. The results obtained indicated that there was a direct relationship between the heater power and the evaporation rate, within the range of parameters investigated. Also, the results showed that for a heat flux up to 2220 W/m2, which is more than twice the terrestrial solar irradiation, the heater temperature was roughly 45 °C, 28 °C below the temperature of an equivalent surface cooled purely by natural convection.
Modification of the ceramide moiety of isoglobotrihexosylceramide on its agonist activity in stimulation of invariant natural killer T cells.

Isoglobotrihexosylceramide (iGb3) is an endogenous antigen of mammalian cells and can stimulate invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells to evoke autoimmune activities by the release of T helper 1 (Th1) and Th2 cytokines. Th1 cytokines are correlated with the antitumor and antiviral response, while Th2 cytokines are correlated with the amelioration of autoimmune diseases. iGb3 is a very weak agonist compared to the exogenous α-galactosylceramide; however, modification of the ceramide moiety has been advocated as one of the approaches to improve its stimulatory activity and to change the bias of release of Th1 and Th2 cytokines. Two analogues of iGb3, 2H-iGb3 and HO-iGb3 with different ceramide moieties, were synthesized. Bioassay results showed that HO-iGb3 was much more effective in stimulating iNKT cells than iGb3 at low concentration. The assay also showed that the CD1d/2H-iGb3 complexes are remarkably efficient in stimulating iNKT cells.
Extraction and characterisation of pectin methylesterase from black carrot (Daucus carota L.)

Abstract This study was carried out to determine some of the biochemical properties of pectin methylesterase (PME) from black carrot. The enzyme showed very high activity in a broad pH range of 6.5–8.5, with the optimum pH occurring at 7.5. The optimum temperature for maximal PME activity was found to be 55 °C. NaCl enhanced PME activity, particularly at 0.2 M. K m and V max values for black carrot PME using apple pectin as substrate were found to be 2.14 mg/ml ( r 2 = 0.988) and 3.75 units/ml, respectively. The enzyme was stable between the temperatures of 30–50 °C/5 min whereas it lost nearly all of its activity at 70 °C/5 min. E a and Z values were found to be 196.8 kJmol −1 ( r 2 = 0.996) and 2.16 °C ( r 2 = 0.995), respectively.
Design and Manufacture of a Gas Turbine Rotor for Temperature and Vibration Measurements

A special gas turbine test rotor has been manufactured to measure compressor blade vibrations and turbine rotor temperatures. This will be used to provide experimental verification of design calculations. The design and manufacture of thermocouple and strain gage instruments are described.Copyright © 1977 by ASME
Herniology: past, present, and future

Introduction Despite herniorrhaphy being performed frequently, most surgeons consider it to be a minor procedure. However, a few surgeons’ views differed.
High resolution inelastic gamma-ray measurements with a white neutron source from 1 to 200 MeV

Measurements of prompt gamma rays following neutron-induced reactions have recently been made at the spallation neutron source at the WNR target area of LAMPF using germanium detectors. These experiments provide extensive excitation function data for inelastic neutron scattering as well as for other reactions such as (n,{alpha}), (n,n{alpha}), (n,p), (n,np), (n,nnp) and (n,xn) for 1 {le} {times} {le} 11. The continuous energy coverage available from 1 MeV to over 200 MeV is ideal for excitation function measurements and greatly extends the energy range for such data. The results of these measurements will provide a database for interpretation of gamma-ray spectra from the planned Mars Observer mission, aid in radiation transport calculations, allow verification of nuclear reaction models, and improve the evaluated neutron reaction data base.
A unique lateral displacement of a Gaussian beam transmitted through a slab with negative permittivity and permeability

This Letter demonstrates a unique negative lateral shift of a Gaussian beam transmitted through a slab with both negative permittivity and permeability, which is distinctly different from a shift caused by a regular dielectric slab. The incident beam is modeled as a tapered wave with a Gaussian spectrum. The waves inside and outside the slab are solved analytically from Maxwell's equations by matching the boundary conditions at the interfaces. It is shown that the field values in all regions can be unambiguously determined. Numerical simulations are presented and the field values as well as the power densities are computed for all regions. A dramatic negative lateral shift is observed when both e and μ are negative. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 33: 136–139, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10255
An opponent-process interpretation of the anxiolytic effects of single inhalations of large concentrations of carbon dioxide

Ten anxiety-disorder outpatients and 10 controls were monitored for heart rate and self reports of anxiety approximately 1 min before and 1 min after a single full-capacity inhalation of a gas consisting of either 65% CO2 + 35% O2 or compressed air. Under the CO2 + O2 condition, patients and controls showed almost identical reductions in anxiety and parallel reductions in heart rate. From an opponent-process point of view, these reductions were explained by the acute negative affective state being followed by the hedonically pleasant state that follows dissipation of CO2. Under the compressed air condition, only patients showed reductions of anxiety presumably because in them breathing an unknown gas via an inhalation mask, raised anxiety, followed by an opponent-process to anxiety after withdrawal of the mask.
Activation of Endothelial Cells in Preeclampsia: Increased Neutrophil-Endothelial Adhesion Correlates With Up-regulation of Adhesion Molecule P-selectin in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Isolated From Preeclampsia

Increased endothelial activation has been suggested to be important in the pathophysiology for preeclampsia. Our objective was to examine whether in preeclampsia neutrophil adherence to endothelial cells is increased and whether endothelial cell-surface adhesion molecule expression is up-regulated. Endothelial cells were isolated from normal (n = 10) and preeclamptic (n = 9) human umbilical veins (HUVECs). Neutrophils were isolated from normal, healthy, nonpregnant female volunteers. Freshly isolated neutrophils were labeled with 51Cr, and labeled neutrophils were coincubated with confluent normal and preeclamptic endothelial monolayers. Adhesion assays were then performed. To determine whether in preeclampsia endothelial cellular-surface adhesion molecules are responsible for increased neutrophil-endothelial adhesion, cellular adhesion molecule expression of P-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cellular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin were examined by an enzyme-linked binding assay. Furthermore, adhesion assays were also performed on HUVECs pretreated with antibodies against P-selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin. Neutrophil adhesion to the HUVECs from preeclamptic pregnancies was significantly increased compared with neutrophil adhesion to the HUVECs from normal pregnancies (P < .01). Expression of cellular-surface adhesion molecule of P-selectin was significantly higher (P < .01) and ICAM-1 was significantly lower (P < .05) in HUVECs isolated from preeclampsia than from normal controls, whereas there was no difference for VCAM-1 and E-selectin expression between HUVECs from normal and preeclamptic pregnancies. No differences were found for neutrophil-endothelial adhesion on normal HUVECs pretreated with anti-P-selectin, anti-ICAM-1, anti-VCAM-1, and anti-E-selectin compred with the untreated cells. However, pretreatment of preeclampsia HUVECs with anti-P-selectin, anti-ICAM-1, anti-VCAM-1, and anti-E-selectin completely or partially blocked the neutrophil-endothelial adhesion compared to the untreated cells. There is a significant increase in neutrophil adhesion to HUVECs that are isolated from preeclamptic pregnancies compared with normal controls. This increase appears to be a result of up-regulation of the cell-surface adhesion molecule P-selectin. Elevated P-selectin expression may play a significant role in neutrophil-endothelial hyperadhesiveness and contribute to vascular complications associated with preeclampsia.
Optical and photoelectric effects in insulators and semiconductors

Abstract A description will be given of recent work on the absorption and reflectivity spectra of certain materials in the vacuum ultraviolet. In particular, measurements of the absorption spectrum of LiF in the region between 1500 A and 200 A and the reflectivity of selenium in the region 500 A–1000 A will be discussed. In addition, an experiment on the photoemission of single crystals of PbS in the region between 2000 A and 1000 A will be described.
Endocytosis of ligand-human parathyroid hormone receptor 1 complexes is protein kinase C-dependent and involves beta-arrestin2. Real-time monitoring by fluorescence microscopy.

Endocytosis and intracellular trafficking of the human parathyroid hormone receptor subtype 1 (hPTH1-Rc) and its ligands was monitored independently by real-time fluorescence microscopy in stably transfected HEK-293 cells. Complexes of fluorescence-labeled parathyroid hormone (PTH)-(1–34) agonist bound to the hPTH1-Rc internalized rapidly at 37 °C via clathrin-coated vesicles, whereas fluorescent PTH-(7–34) antagonist-hPTH1Rc complexes did not. A functional C terminus epitope-tagged receptor (C-Tag-hPTH1-Rc) was immunolocalized to the cell membrane and, to a lesser extent, the cytoplasm. PTH and PTH-related protein agonists stimulated C-Tag-hPTH1-Rc internalization. Relocalization to the cell membrane occurred 1 h after removal of the ligand. Endocytosis of fluorescent PTH agonist-hPTH1-Rc complexes was blocked by the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor staurosporine but not by the specific protein kinase A inhibitorN-(2-(methylamino)ethyl)-5-isoquinoline-sulfonamide. Fluorescent PTH antagonist-hPTH1-Rc complexes were rapidly internalized after PKC activation by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate or thrombin, but not after stimulation of the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway by forskolin. In cells co-expressing the hPTH1-Rc and a green fluorescent protein-β-arrestin2 fusion protein (β-Arr2-GFP), PTH agonists stimulated β-Arr2-GFP mobilization to the cell membrane. Subsequently, fluorescent PTH-(1–34)-hPTH1Rc complexes and β-Arr2-GFP co-localized intracellularly. In conclusion, agonist-activated hPTH1-Rc internalization involves β-arrestin mobilization and targeting to clathrin-coated vesicles. Our results also indicate that receptor occupancy, rather than receptor-mediated signaling, is necessary, although not sufficient, for endocytosis of the hPTH1-Rc. Activation of PKC, however, is absolutely required.
Cellular Import Mediated by Nuclear Localization Signal Peptide Sequences

The cellular delivery of therapeutic agents and their localization within cells is currently a great challenge in medicinal chemistry. A few cationic peptides have shown a strong propensity to cross the cytoplasmic membrane and enter cells. Nuclear localization signal (NLS) sequences are a class of highly cationic peptides that may be exploited for cellular import of linked cargo. A series of NLS sequence peptides were investigated for entry into different cancer cell lines by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. All NLS peptides demonstrated rapid accumulation within cells when added to the cellular media. Covalent adducts of proteins and oligonucleotides with NLS peptides were also effectively imported within cells. An understanding of the structural and mechanistic properties of these sequences will provide great potential for the rational design of efficient and selective peptidic delivery systems.
Quadratically convergent algorithms and one-dimensional search schemes

In this paper, the performances of three quadratically convergent algorithms coupled with four one-dimensional search schemes are studied through several nonquadratic examples. The algorithms are the rank-one algorithm (Algorithm I), the projection algorithm (Algorithm II), and the Fletcher-Reeves algorithm (Algorithm III). The search schemes are the exact quadratic search (EQS), the exact cubic search (ECS), the approximate quadratic search (AQS), and the approximate cubic search (ACS). The performances are analyzed in terms of number of iterations and number of equivalent function evaluations for convergence. From the numerical experiments, the following conclusions are found: (a) while the number of iterations generally increases by relaxing the search stopping condition, the number of equivalent function evaluations decreases; therefore, approximate searches should be preferred to exact searches; (b) the numbers of iterations for ACS, ECS, and EQS are about the same; therefore, the use of more sophisticated, higher order search schemes is not called for; the present ACS scheme, modified so that only the function, instead of the gradient, is used in bracketing the minimal point, could prove to be most desirable in terms of the number of equivalent function evaluations; (c) for Algorithm I, ACS and AQS yield almost identical results; it is believed that further improvements in efficiency are possible if one uses a fixed stepsize approach, thus bypassing the one-dimensional search completely; (d) the combination of Algorithm II and ACS exhibits high efficiency in treating functions whose order is higher than two and whose Hessian at the minimal point is singular; and (f) Algorithm III, even with the best search scheme, is inefficient in treating functions with flat bottoms; it is doubtful that the simplicity of its update will compensate for its inefficiency in such pathological cases.
II. The three-dimensional rearrangement of mammalian sarcoplasmic reticulum after contraction

We reported recently that a modified Golgi stain, in conjunction with stereoscopic techniques, gives striking views of the elusive network of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and transverse tubules (TT) in avian skeletal muscle [Scales, D. J., and Yasumura, T. (1982) J. Ultrastruct. Res. 78 , 193–205]. In this report we use the same techniques to study the arrangement of SR and TT in mammalian skeletal muscle. After impregnating the SR and TT with silver chromate, unstained 1-μm-thick sections are observed at 80 kV and stereo views are obtained by tilting the specimen and recording two images. Some specimens were stretched before chemical fixation to simulate the relaxed state. The SR of these specimens consists of a complex three-dimensional network over the I band but “flat” longitudinal tubules over the A band with a “flat” fenestrated region at the M line. We compare these with other specimens that were not stretched but were fixed in a contracted state. These specimens show a rearrangement of the SR only among the longitudinal tubules of the A band. The shape of the I-band SR remains unchanged and also maintains its alignment with the Z disc. In addition, the fenestrated region remains aligned with the M line. These results are evidence of connections between the filaments of the contractile apparatus and the neighboring membranes involved in excitation of this apparatus. Our observations support the hypothesis that Z disc-SR and M line-SR linkages maintain crucial filament-membrane alignments.
Connections of the limbic network: a corticocortical evoked potentials study.

Abstract Papez proposed a network for higher brain function, which is termed the limbic network. However, the in vivo human limbic network has not been established. We investigated the connectivity of the human limbic system using corticocortical evoked potential (CCEP). This retrospective analysis included 28 patients with medically intractable focal epilepsy who underwent stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) and CCEP. Alternating 1 Hz electrical stimuli were delivered to parts of the limbic system [anterior and posterior hippocampus, temporal pole, parahippocampal gyrus (PHG), amygdala, anterior (ACG) and posterior cingulate gyrus (PCG), medial and lateral orbitofrontal cortex (OF)]. A total of 40–60 stimuli were averaged in each trial to obtain CCEP responses. CCEP distributions were evaluated by calculating the root mean square (RMS) of CCEP responses. Anterior hippocampal stimulation elicited prominent CCEP responses in medial and lateral temporal structures, PCG, medial OF and insula over the ipsilateral hemisphere. Posterior hippocampal stimulation induced CCEP responses in the ipsilateral medial and lateral temporal structures and PCG. The findings also revealed connections from temporal pole to the ipsilateral medial temporal structures, and connections from PHG to the ipsilateral hippocampus and PCG. The amygdala projected to broad areas including the ipsilateral medial and lateral temporal structures, medial and lateral frontal areas, the cingulate gyrus, insula and inferior parietal lobule. ACG and PCG showed connections to the ipsilateral medial fronto-parietal areas and connections to bilateral medial temporo-parieto-occipital and lateral parieto-occipital areas, respectively. Medial and lateral OF stimulation induced responses in the adjacent cortices. This study revealed that various regions within the limbic network are intimately connected in reverberating circuits and are linked to specific ipsilateral and contralateral regions, which may reflect distinct functional roles.
A Modified Ballistic Aggregation Model

Abstract The standard ballistic aggregation model assumes that the particles that are added to a growing agglomerate follow straightline trajectories. The finite viscosity of real fluids, however, biases the flow of liquid around, rather than through, the agglomerate. The result is that the particles, which follow streamlines in the fluid, will tend to be deposited near the periphery of the growing agglomerate. A modification is made to the ballistic aggregation model to account for this effect, and the geometry of the resultant structures is characterized. The simulation results suggest that even under conditions where convection dominates particle motion, branched open structures are likely to be formed.
Multiresolution Wavelet Analysis of Heartbeat Intervals Discriminates Healthy Patients from Those with Cardiac Pathology

We applied multiresolution wavelet analysis to the sequence of times between human heartbeats ( $R\ensuremath{-}R$ intervals) and have found a scale window, between 16 and 32 heartbeat intervals, over which the widths of the $R\ensuremath{-}R$ wavelet coefficients fall into disjoint sets for normal and heart-failure patients. This has enabled us to correctly classify every patient in a standard data set as belonging either to the heart-failure or normal group with 100% accuracy, thereby providing a clinically significant measure of the presence of heart failure from the $R\ensuremath{-}R$ intervals alone. Comparison is made with previous approaches, which have provided only statistically significant measures.
San Andreas Fault Geometry at Desert Hot Springs, California, and Its Effects on Earthquake Hazards and Groundwater

Abstract The Mission Creek and Banning faults are two of the principal strands of the San Andreas fault zone in the northern Coachella Valley of southern California. Structural characteristics of the faults affect both regional earthquake hazards and local groundwater resources. We use seismic, gravity, and geological data to characterize the San Andreas fault zone in the vicinity of Desert Hot Springs. Seismic images of the upper 500 m of the Mission Creek fault at Desert Hot Springs show multiple fault strands distributed over a 500 m wide zone, with concentrated faulting within a central 200 m wide area of the fault zone. High-velocity (up to 5000 m/sec) rocks on the northeast side of the fault are juxtaposed against a low-velocity ( M >6.0) earthquakes in the area (in 1948 and 1986) occurred at or near the depths (∼10 to 12 km) of the merged (San Andreas) fault. Large-magnitude earthquakes that nucleate at or below the merged fault will likely generate strong shaking from guided waves along both fault zones and from amplified seismic waves in the low-velocity basin between the two fault zones. The Mission Creek fault zone is a groundwater barrier with the top of the water table varying by 60 m in depth and the aquifer varying by about 50 m in thickness across a 200 m wide zone of concentrated faulting.
Near elimination of hepatitis B virus infections among Hawaii elementary school children after universal infant hepatitis B vaccination.

OBJECTIVES. Hawaii implemented routine infant hepatitis B vaccination in 1992 and required it for school entry in 1997. Previously, in 1989, a serologic survey among Hawaii school children in grades 1 to 3 indicated that 1.6% had chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and 2.1% had resolved infection. We conducted a follow-up survey to examine changes in hepatitis B virus infection rates. PATIENTS AND METHODS. This study was performed in Oahu, Hawaii, during the 2001–2002 school year among children in grades 2 and 3. Consenting parents/guardians provided demographic information including place of birth. Participants were tested for serologic evidence of hepatitis B virus infection and their vaccination status was determined by reviewing school records. Rates of symptomatic acute hepatitis B among persons aged ≤19 years were calculated from cases reported from Hawaii to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention between 1990 and 2004. RESULTS. Completed hepatitis B vaccination series were documented for 83% of the 2469 participants by age 18 months and for 97% by age 5 years. Past or present hepatitis B virus infection was detected among 6 participants (0.24%), including 1 (0.04%) with chronic infection and 5 (0.20%) with resolved infections. Compared with the 1989 survey, these prevalences represent declines of 97% and 90% in chronic and resolved hepatitis B virus infections, respectively. The incidence of symptomatic acute hepatitis B in Hawaii children and adolescents aged ≤19 years decreased from 4.5 cases per 100000 in 1990 to 0.0 during 2002–2004. To date, the last reported case in a child aged CONCLUSIONS.. Hepatitis B virus infection has nearly been eliminated in Hawaii children born after universal infant hepatitis B vaccination was implemented. These findings suggest that hepatitis B prevention goals are being met through routine immunization and related prevention programs among US children.
Local atmospheric decoupling in complex topography alters climate change impacts

Supplementary material included in separate file. This article was originally published in International Journal of Climatology and is copyrighted by the Royal Meteorological Society
Critical concentration for ferromagnet-spin-glass transition in (Eu)x(Sr)1-x chalcogenide-like systems

Abstract The zero temperature magnetic critical concentration in the mixed fcc system, (Eu)x(Sr)1-xS, and similar systems on other cubic lattices, is computed as a function of the ratio of the second-neighbour to nearest-neighbour exchange coupling. On comparison with the recent experiments of Maletta and coworkers, it is concluded that this ratio in (Eu-Sr)S remains approximately constant.
FETAL HEART RATE AUSCULTATION: CURRENT AND FUTURE PRACTICE

Intermittent auscultation (IA) has been reported as equivalent to electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) as a fetal surveillance method in terms of neonatal outcomes based on randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. Despite recommendations to include IA as a primary method for fetal evaluation, EFM use predominates. Understanding the equipment, method, benefits and limitations, and strategies for implementing IA may assist nurses in providing informed choices for low-risk pregnant women.
Histopathology of renal failure after heart transplantation: A diverse spectrum

Background Chronic kidney disease occurs frequently after heart transplantation and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Herein we describe the histopathology associated with renal failure in a cohort of heart transplant recipients. Methods Over a 4-year period all patients with an estimated GFR 2 or significant proteinuria were referred to the kidney transplant clinic for clinical evaluation. A percutaneous renal biopsy was performed as part of a standardized evaluation. Results Eighteen patients underwent renal biopsy 5.8 ± 4.1 years after transplantation. Hypertension (88.9%), Type 2 diabetes (55.6%) and allograft vasculopathy (38.9%) were prevalent. All patients were receiving calcineurin inhibitors. Mean creatinine was 2.9 ± 1.2 mg/dl with an estimated GFR 27.9 ± 9.1 ml/min/1.73 m 2 . Eight patients (44%) had proteinuria >1 g per 24 hours. The major histologic findings were nephrosclerosis plus diabetic glomerulopathy (50%), nephrosclerosis and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (22.2%) and nephrosclerosis alone (22.2%). One patient had direct CNI toxicity consisting of nodular sub-adventitial hyalinosis. Eleven patients (61.1%) had glomerular disease and 11 patients (61.1%) had moderate or severe tubular atrophy. During follow-up, 5 patients (27.8%) started hemodialysis, 4 (22.2%) died, and 2 (11.1%) received a renal transplant. Conclusions We observed diverse histologic patterns in this series of renal biopsies suggesting that chronic kidney disease after heart transplantation has a complex and varied pathologic basis. Further defining the renal injuries that precede heart transplantation and predispose to the progression of kidney disease after transplant may assist in treating this population.
Fluorescence polarization study of a human IgA myeloma protein: absence of segmental flexibility.

Fluorescence polarization measurements of dansyl‡ conjugates of an IgA myeloma protein (DWY) revealed no independent internal rotations of Fab regions within the immunoglobulin molecule. Rotational correlation time (\gf) calculated from time-average emission anisotropy (Ā) in sucrose solutions was 147 nsec. A kinetic plot of fluorescence polarization anisotropy (A(t)) following a nanosecond pulse of excitation of dansyl-DWY was linear with time in contrast with the corresponding plot reported for anti-dansyl IgG antibodies (Yguerabide, Epstein & Stryer, 1970). Rotational correlation time (φ) of dansyl-DWY obtained from time dependence of A(t) was 493 nsec. The discrepancy between φ and \gf may be attributed to rapid depolarizations of covalently bound dansyl groups perhaps due to independent rotations of amino-acid side chains or of small flexible regions of the DWY molecule.
Effect of phagocytosis on guinea pig granulocyte membrane markers.

The internalization of membrane markers during phagocytosis was followed in guinea pig granulocytes as a function of the extent of particle ingestion. The plasmalemma was carefully labeled with diazotized 35S-sulfanilate, or by treatment with periodate and sodium 3H-borohydride. These treatments provided general membrane markers. More specific markers used were 5′-nucleotidase, neuraminidase-releasable membrane sialate, and concanavalin A binding sites. In all cases except the last, internalization of membrane was directly determined on isolated phagosomes; disappearance of binding sites from the cell surface was followed in the last instance. Both phagosomal levels and disappearance from the surface were measured in the case of 5′-nucleotidase, permitting balance studies. Phagocytosis was determined as uptake of paraffin emulsions labeled with Oil-Red 0. “Marker/particle” ratios were determined as the percent external marker internalized per mg paraffin ingested. The “marker/particle” ratios for cells with chemically labeled membranes were considered to reflect random internalization of membrane entities. Colchicine had no effect on those ratios. Internalization of 5′-nucleotidase and neuraminidase-releasable sialate gave “marker/particle” ratios similar to those of the random markers, and these increased in the presence of colchicine. Concanavalin A binding sites did not appear to be removed from the cell surface in the absence of colchicine, but disappearance was observed in its presence. Control experiments indicated that these changes due to colchicine must be very cautiously interpreted. Our results differ from those obtained by others, and the reasons due to species, cell type, experimental design, etc. are discussed. Maximal particle uptake was computed to require internalization of one-fifth to one-third of the total external membrane of the cells—based on the assumption of random internalization of markers.
Spatiotemporal Image Correlation Spectroscopy Reveals Arp2/3-Complex-Driven Cytoplasmic Streaming in Mouse Oocytes, Maintaining Meiotic Cortical Spindle Positioning

We use spatio-temporal correlation methods with transmitted light microscopy to demonstrate a novel pattern of internal-to-cortical circular cytoplasmic flow in meiosis II mouse oocytes. This flow is responsible for poising the spindle near the cortex for completion of meiosis II and successful oocyte fertilization. We show that this flow is driven by a balance of Arp2/3-complex-induced actin nucleation at the cortex and myosin-II-driven contraction of the cortex. STICS analysis of EGFP-Utrophin-labeled actin fibers shows cortical outflows with velocities consistent with those required to drive the cytoplasmic streaming. Inhibition of the Arp2/3-complex with CK-666 reverses this flow and leads to internal movement of the spindle away from the cortex. Interestingly, neither inhibition of actin polymerization, myosin-II contraction, nor microtubule depolymerization resulted in spindle internalization or large changes in cytoplasmic streaming. Kymograph analysis of the cortex stained with fluorescent Concavalin A demonstrates cortical contraction that is eliminated upon inhibition of myosin-II. Combined inhibition of myosin and Arp2/3-complex results in elimination of reversed cytoplasmic streaming.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Importance of subsyndromal symptoms of depression in elderly patients.

Objective There is a debate about the importance of subsyndromal symptoms of depression (SSD). The current study examined the cross-sectional and longitudinal significance of SSD in geriatric subjects both with and without a past history of major depression. Methods Elderly primary-care subjects with SSD, both with (SSD+; N=54) and without (SSD–; N=204) a history of major depression, were compared with subjects with major depression (MDD; N=111), minor depression (MinD; N=74), and symptom-free comparison subjects (N = 59). Assessment domains included physical and psychological disability, health-care utilization, hopelessness, death and suicidal ideation, and a diagnostic evaluation at a 3-month follow-up. Results Both subjects with SSD+ and SSD− differed from the symptom-free comparison subjects on measures of psychological disability, hopelessness, and death ideation, with SSD+ subjects being more severely psychologically disabled than SSD− subjects. There were few differences between SSD+ and MinD subjects or those with MDD, except on measures of psychological disability. Finally, more than 24% of SSD+ subjects progressed to meet criteria of MDD, MinD, or dysthymia over a 3-month period. Utilization of outpatient services did not differ among any of the depression groups or comparison subjects. Conclusions SSD (with or without a past history of MDD) is associated with significant disability. Moreover, the risk of developing a diagnosis of MDD, MinD, or dysthymia is substantially elevated in subjects with a past history of MDD.
Convergence properties of APW wavefunctions and matrix elements

The convergence properties of both APW wavefunctions and various matrix elements calculated from these wavefunctions have been studied using Cu and Gd metals as examples. The authors find that s-p-like states converge much faster than d-like states in local properties (e.g. the discontinuity in slope at the muffin-tin sphere radius); surprisingly however, even the d-like states converge rapidly for integrated properties (e.g. the charge density and optical matrix elements). The authors conclude that for the materials and matrix elements studied, there is no need to utilize methods involving the matching of basis function derivatives at the APW sphere boundary; and that matrix elements can converge faster than the energy eigenvalue using the wavefunctions from the standard APW method.
The assignment problem under categorized jobs

Abstract This note considers a special case of the assignment problem when n jobs are to be grouped together into a set of m categories ( m > 3). Solving this particular case through the available transportation or assignment algorithms would entail a heavy computational burden, particularly in problems involving dense matrices. A preprocessing technique requiring sorting of ( 2 m ) n -arrays once is outlined, which is capable of reducing the dimension and eliminating several arcs for such a problem. The procedure offers an overall computational advantage over the other available algorithms applied directly. An illustrative example is included.
The α-Subunit of the Heterotrimeric G Protein G13Activates a Phospholipase D Isozyme by a Pathway Requiring Rho Family GTPases *

G13 belongs to the G12 family of heterotrimeric G proteins, whose effectors are poorly defined. The present study was designed to test if phospholipase D (PLD) is regulated by G13 and if Rho-type small GTPases are involved. Expression of the constitutively active Q226L mutant of the α-subunit of G13 in COS-7 cells stimulated the activity of a rat brain phospholipase D isozyme (rPLD1) co-expressed in the cells. Wild type Gα13 was ineffective unless the cells were incubated with AlF4−. rPLD1 was previously shown to be activated by constitutively active V14RhoA in COS-7 cells (Park, S. K., Provost, J. J., Bae, C. D., Ho, W. T., and Exton, J. H. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 29263–29272). When the endogenous Rho proteins of the cells were inactivated by treatment with C3 exoenzyme fromClostridium botulinum, the ability of Gα13Q226L to activate rPLD1 was greatly attenuated. Co-transfection of dominant negative N19RhoA and N17Rac-1, but not N17Cdc42Hs or N17Ras, also inhibited the activation. Expression of constitutively active Gαq in COS-7 cells also activated rPLD1, but constitutively active forms of Gαi2 and Gαs were without effect. These findings support an effector role for PLD in G13 signaling and demonstrate a requirement for Rho GTPases in this response.
The development and hormonal response of the autotransplanted interpubic joint in mice.

The ventral portion of the immature pelvis of 12-day-old female mice, consisting of the interpubic cartilage and the angles of the pubic bones, was excised and either autoimplanted into its original pelvic site or autotransplanted to the thoracic region. Half the number of mice with pelvic implants and half with thoracic transplants received subcutaneous injections of estrogen and relaxin prior to necropsy. All were sacrificed at 63 days of age. All the pelvic implants and the majority of thoracic transplants were present at necropsy. The grafts from the untreated mice were similar to the intact pubic symphysis ofa 63-day-old mature mouse both in size and morphology. The grafts from the hormone-treated mice had undergone a pregnancy-type response of cartilage transformation to ligamentous tissue and resorption of the medial ends of the pubic bones. The possible significance of the cells of the interpubic joint in its response to hormones is discussed.
System for Automating and Multiplexing Soil Moisture Measurement by Time-Domain Reflectometry

It is often necessary to measure soil water content at multiple points in space and time. Our goal was to develop an automated and multiplexed measurement system using time-domain reflectometry (TDR). Two systems are described; the first (A) uses an analog TDR unit, in which voltage signals sent from the TDR to a datalogger convey the shape of the waveform. The second (D) uses a digital TDR that communicates a digital representation of the oscilloscope wave to a personal computer. Both systems use the same multiplexing strategy, in which the TDR transmission line connects through a 12-position rotary switch to various waveguides positioned in the soil and to further rotary switches. The switches are turned by stepping solenoids that are activated by the datalogger in System A and the computer in System D. System D uses software to automatically analyze the incoming waveforms and calculate volumetric water content. Some of the possible uses of each system include observation of infiltration at multiple points within a field and measurement of unfrozen water content as a function of space and time during freezing and thawing. The system has also been used to estimate the reproducibility of water content measurement by TDR, which was found to be in the range of ±0.006 to ±0.008. The systems described should be useful for field research on many subjects, including studies of transport and biological processes in soil, and validation of root water-uptake models.
Stresses in a perforated ribbed cylindrical shell subjected to internal pressure

Abstract This paper deals with an experimental determination of stresses in a perforated ribbed cylindrical shell subjected to internal pressure. Brittle coating, electrical strain gages, photoelasticity, and micrometers were used for the analysis. The results obtained were compared with a theoretical solution.
The Interaction between Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury: A Neuroscience perspective

The occurrence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and psychological health issues in the current theater of military operations has become a major factor in planning for the long-term healthcare of our wounded warriors. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can co-exist with brain injury in military members who have been exposed to blasts. Specific areas of the brain may be more susceptible to damage from blasts. In particular, damage to the prefrontal cortex can lead to disinhibition of cerebral structures that control fear and anxiety. Reactive systemic inflammatory processes related to TBI may also impair psychological health. Impaired psychological health may lead to increased psychological distress that impedes brain repair due to the release of stress-related hormones. Since the external environment has been shown to exert a significant influence on the internal environment of the organism, enriching the external environment may well reduce anxiety and facilitate the neuroplasticity of brain cells, thu...
Contracting on real option payoffs

Abstract We consider the design of contracts that pay managers on the basis of a project's payoff. We show that a contract that induces appropriate timing of project investment by a privately informed risk neutral manager will not offer proper incentives to forgo perk consumption at the time of investment. Under the firm's optimal contract within the class of payments that do not depend on time of investment, the manager waits too long to invest. The optimal contract can be implemented with a call option on the project payoff.
The phase system CaO-CO(NH2)2-N2O5-H2O at 25°C

Isotherms in the acidic region of the phase system CaO-CO(NH)2-N2O5-H2O at 25°C were determined. In this region, CO(NH2) · HNO3 occupies the largest field of the diagram with small encompassing fields for CO(NH2)2, Ca(NO3)2 · 4CO(NH2)2, Ca(NO3)2 · 4H2O, Ca(NO3)2 · 2H2O, and Ca(NO3)2.
Estimating homographies without normalization

Existing linear methods for estimating homographies, rely on coordinate normalization, to reduce the error in the estimated homography. Unfortunately, the estimated homography depends on the choice of the normalization. The proposed extension to the (linear) Taubin estimator is the perfect substitute for such methods, as it does not rely on coordinate normalization, and produces homographies whose error is consistent with existing methods. Also, unlike existing linear methods, the proposed Taubin estimator is theoretically unbiased, and unaffected by similarity transformations of the correspondences in the two views. In addition, it can be adapted to estimate other quantities such as trifocal tensors.
Nitric oxide-releasing polyurethane-PEG copolymer containing the YIGSR peptide promotes endothelialization with decreased platelet adhesion

Thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia are the principal causes of small-diameter vascular graft failure. To improve the long-term patency of polyurethane vascular grafts, we have incorporated both poly(ethylene glycol) and a diazeniumdiolate nitric oxide (NO) donor into the backbone of polyurethane to improve thromboresistance. Additionally, we have incorporated the laminin-derived cell adhesive peptide sequence YIGSR to encourage endothelial cell adhesion and migration, while NO release encourages endothelial cell proliferation. NO production by polyurethane films under physiological conditions demonstrated biphasic release, in which an initial burst of 70% of the incorporated NO was released within 2 days, followed by sustained release over 2 months. Endothelial cell proliferation in the presence of the NO-releasing material was increased as compared to control polyurethane, and platelet adhesion to polyethylene glycol-containing polyurethane was decreased significantly with the addition of the NO donor.
Six recent additions to the history of physiology in the USSR.

At present there is in Russian no book-length account of the general history of physiology similar to that of K. E. Rothschuh.I This gap will soon be filled by a book being written by Professor Evgenii B. Babskii and his coworkers. The interested reader may have a taste of this magnum opus by perusing the chapter on the development of physiology in the new edition of the standard Russian textbook of physiology, edited by Babskii.2 Also relevant, in varying degrees, to the history of physiology, are the volumes forming part of the new Handbook of Physiology (Rukovodstvo po ftziologii). Here I shall consider two volumes concerned with conditioned reflexes and a vanrety of other aspects of Pavlovian physiology of behavior,3 and a volume on vision.4 In addition, I shall comment on two new volumes devoted to the life and work of I. P. Pavlov.5. 6
Relaxin Secretion into Human Semen is Independent of Gonadotropin Stimulation

To investigate the control of relaxin (Rlx) secretion in men, we studied seminal plasma RIx concentrations after physiologic and supraphysiologic gonadal stimulation. In the first experiment, 14 men with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism provided semen samples at various time points before and during therapy with pulsatile GnRH. These data were compared to seminal plasma Rlx values in 5 normal men. In a second experiment, pharmacologic doses of hCG were administered in a fashion similar to that previously shown to have stimulated Rlx secretion from the CL of women. In men with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, no relationship was detected by linear regression analysis between seminal plasma Rlx and testosterone, testicular volume, ejaculate volume, or the appearance of sperm in the ejaculate. Rlx concentrations varied considerably between subjects (6-120 ng/ml) but remained fairly consistent within the same individual over time. Supraphysiologic gonadal stimulation with hCG similarly failed to alter seminal plasma Rlx (n = 5, mean ± SEM; 48 ± 9 ng/ml, 42 ± 7 ng/ml, and 56 ± 9 ng/ml on Days 1, 3, and 6, respectively; p > 0.05) in normal men despite dramatic increases in serum testosterone (763 ± 25 ng/dl, 1702 ± 136 ng/dl, and 1494 ± 97 ng/dl on Days 1, 3, and 6, respectively; p < 0.05 vs. Day 1). Taken together, these data suggest that Rlx in men is secreted independently from direct gonadotropin control.