cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast and slow depolarizing responses of guinea-pig coeliac ganglion cells to 5-hydroxytryptamine.

Abstract Responses to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) applied by pressure ejection to guinea-pig coeliac ganglion cells were recorded intracellularly in vitro. Three types of responses were observed: a fast depolarization (43% of cells), a slow depolarization (25%) and a biphasic response comprising an initial fast followed by a slow depolarization (30%). Fast depolarizations had a mean duration of 6.4 s and were associated with a decrease in membrane input resistance. On hyperpolarizing the membrane, responses increased in amplitude; the mean reversal potential was −23 mV. Fast responses were nearly eliminated in a Na-free medium but were unaffected by low Ca/high Mg solution or by low Cl medium. Fast responses were depressed by MDL 72222, quipazine, metoclopramide, and by relatively high concentrations of d -tubocurarine, but unaffected by methysergide. Slow responses had a mean duration of 62 s and were associated either with no change or a slight fall in membrane resistance. On hyperpolarizing the membrane, slow responses were increased in most but not all cells tested. Slow depolarizations were depressed by methysergide but unaffected by agents that suppressed the fast responses. The biphasic response displayed electrophysiological and pharmacological characteristics of both the fast and slow depolarizations. It is concluded that guinea-pig coeliac ganglion cells display either a rapid depolarization, a slow depolarization or a biphasic response to 5-HT, that the fast depolarization appears to be mediated by a conductance increase to Na and K, while a different mechanism appears to underlie the slow depolarization, and that the two responses are mediated by different kinds of 5-HT receptor.
Acute anorectic effect of single and combined drugs in mice using a non-deprivation protocol.

Rationale: Studies of the effect of anorectic drugs such as fenfluramine in mice have indicated the desirability of using experimental protocols that do not involve deprivation. Objective: We have developed a non-deprivation or "dessert" protocol for use in mice that are maintained in standard housing conditions, and examine the effects of a serotonergic agent dexfenfluramine (DFEN), a dopaminergic agent phentermine (PHEN), and a selective norepinephrine uptake inhibitor thionisoxetine (TNIX) alone and in combination. Methods: Female C57BL/6J mice were adapted to 30 min daily presentation of a gelatinized form of sweetened milk using a holder that hooks over the side of the cage during tests; food spillage and contamination are minimal. Dose-inhibition curves were determined for DFEN, PHEN, and TNIX alone and for fixed ratio combinations of DFEN with either PHEN or TNIX. Results: Each drug produced a near linear dose-inhibition curve with the 50% inhibitory doses (DI50) of 5.6, 3.2 and 12.2 mg/kg, respectively. By isobolographic analysis, the effects of the drug combinations were strictly additive. Conclusion: The procedure described is highly suitable for testing anorectic drugs in mice and is adaptable to a variety of housing conditions and diets. The DFEN+PHEN combination was additive, which contrasts with its reported supra-additive effect in rats.
Modeling of ambipolar a-Si:H thin-film transistors

Ambipolar hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin-film transistors are capable of both n- and p-channel device operation. Essential to the fabrication of such devices are ohmic source-drain contact regions and a high-quality low fixed charge gate insulator. A simple model has been developed to describe the output drain current versus drain voltage characteristics of these ambipolar devices, The model involves only the numerical integration of an interpolated sheet conductance function. By using the appropriate flat-band voltage, the model accurately predicts the experimental output drain current characteristics for both n- and p-type operation.
Detection of Negative Ions formed by Charge Transfer

WE have reported recently the results of a series of measurements of the electron loss cross-section for hydrogen atoms of 5–40 keV. energy in various gases1,2. The method employed is capable of some precision, and the cross-sections obtained are accurate, we believe, to within 2–3 per cent. As a result we have been able to determine that in hydrogen and in carbon monoxide the cross-section does not vary smoothly with energy, but has a number of large fluctuations. In the carbon monoxide cross-section, for example, there are nine maxima in the region 8–40 keV. The magnitude of the oscillations is of the order of 10−16 cm.2 in a total cross-section of the order of 1–5 × 10−16 cm.2.
Effects of Impactor Size on Impact Damage-Growth and Residual Properties in an SMC-R50 Composite

An experimental investigation was carried out to study effects of impactor size on the damage-growth and the degree of damage in SMC-R50 composite plates. Plane- ended cylindrical steel impactors of 9.7 mm in diameter were chosen to inflict impact damage in the impact energy range from 15 to 52 N-m using a gas gun facility. The im pact velocity range was adjusted for each impactor corresponding to their sizes (25.4, 38.1 and 50.8 mm long) such that the impact energy levels can be maintained constant. The damage-zone size as well as the tensile strength and stiffness are found to be strongly dependent on the impactor size. Impact energy is found not to be a governing parameter for damage-growth and degree of damage that can take into account the im pactor size.
Mobile device protection from loss and capture

Mobile devices play a critical role in assistive environments. How to authenticate and secure communications among them has become more important especially against loss and capture of the devices. In this paper, we present an approach to protect signing keys of mobile devices based on mediated RSA introduced by Dan Boneh and others. The important property of our scheme is transparent self-resilience. In other words, in case a device is lost or captured and at the risk of being compromised and impersonated, our scheme can disable the device instantly and the replacement will be transparent to other users. In this way, if an attacker captures a mobile device, he has limited time to use it because it will become soon invalid. If he wants to break our scheme, he must compromise the device and its mediator simultaneously.
The Roles of Mean Meridional Motions and Large-Scale Eddies in Zonally Averaged Circulations

Abstract A hierarchy of zonally averaged atmospheric models is used to study the role of mean meridional motions and large-scale eddies in determining the zonal climate. Five models are developed: a radiative-convective equilibrium model (no large-scale motion), a zonally uniform model (no longitudinal asymmetries), an energy balance model (parameterized energy transport), a model that combines the physics of the two previous models, and a full statistical-dynamic model (with parameterizations of eddy momentum transport as well as eddy sensible heat transport). In the most complete model, the zonally averaged primitive equations are solved after parameterizing the eddies, friction and the diabatic heating rates. All the models have two layers in the vertical and a latitudinal grid resolution of 5°. For simplicity, we treat a “dry earth” case and calculate annual-average equilibrium states with each of the five models. We find that in the tropics a parameterized energy transport commonly used in energy bal...
Effects of chronic lead ingestion on reproductive characteristics of ringed turtle doves Streptopelia risoria and on tissue lead concentrations of adults and their progeny

Ringed turtle doves Streptopelia risoria received 0 or 100 μg ml−1 lead in their drinking water for two weeks prior to pairing and throughout a breeding cycle. Lead treatment did not increase the time required to produce eggs, did not disrupt egg production, and disruptions in fertility of eggs were not detected. Testes weights were lower (p < 0·05) in lead treated birds where spermatozoan numbers tended to be lower. Bone lead was higher (p < 0·05) in doves ingesting lead, and females had more than ten times the bone lead concentrations of males. Lead was transmitted from adults to juveniles via the egg and probably by feeding young with crop milk. Progeny of lead-treated parents had higher (p < 0·05) lead concentrations in bones, livers and primary feathers than progeny of controls. Packed cell volumes and body weight gains of juveniles were not disturbed by lead treatment of parents.
Toxic effect of zinc on NF-κB, IL-2, IL-2 receptor α, and TNF-α in HUT-78 (Th0) cells

Zinc deficiency decreased cellular immune response. Zinc supplementation reverses this response. High concentration of zinc intake is reported to alter immune response. We hypothesize that higher concentration of zinc adversely affects T-cell immune response. In this study, we examined whether higher concentration of zinc affects expression of IL-2, IL-2Ralpha, and TNF-alpha, and NF-kappaB activation in HUT-78 (Th(0)) cells. The results show that HUT-78 cells incubated in 15, 50, and 100 microM zinc medium had significantly higher intracellular zinc contents and faster growth after 4 days of incubation, compared to the cells incubated in 1 microM zinc medium. After PMA/PHA stimulation, 1 microM zinc showed significant decreases in NF-kappaB activation, and in the levels of IL-2, IL-2Ralpha, and TNF-alpha production and mRNAs compared to 15 microM zinc. The cells incubated in higher concentrations of zinc (50 and 100 microM zinc) showed mild to moderate decreases in the levels of IL-2, IL-2Ralpha, and TNF-alpha production and mRNAs, and in NF-kappaB activation compared to those incubated in 15 microM zinc medium. These data indicate that not only low level of zinc, but also high levels of zinc decrease Th1 function.
Use of Liver Function Tests to Predict the Magnitude of an Outbreak of Hepatitis A

The results of liver function tests allowed local and state public health professionals in Alaska to accurately predict the magnitude of an outbreak of hepatitis A.
Cytogenetic study of 11 gastric adenocarcinomas

We describe the cytogenetic findings in 11 gastric cancer cases. Nine cases showed a variable number of numerical and structural aberrations, while two cases had a normal karyotype. The chromosomes most frequently involved are chromosome 3 in six cases, 6 in four cases, and 13 in three cases. They mainly exhibited structural aberrations. An additional segment on chromosome 3p was observed in three cases, while two cases had a del(3q). A der(5) chromosome resulting from a translocation between chromosomes 3 and 5 was observed in two cases. Both cases had also a del(6q), a der(12), and an add(17p) chromosome as common abnormalities. Deletion of 6q chromosome distal to band 6q21 was observed in three cases. Trisomy 8 as a sole anomaly was found in one case. Our cytogenetic findings are discussed in relation to the reported in the literature data.
Clock distribution in application specific integrated circuits

Application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) have rapidly reached VLSI dimensions, offering to a large community of system designers the possibility to develop their own ICs (10K–100K gates) in a highly secure CAD/CAE environment. However, they bring specific design problems, one of which is the distribution of the clock signals to a large number of sequential elements. This article presents an optimisation method resulting in the minimum delay on the clockpath. The efficiency of the optimisation algorithm is evaluated via an example.
Energy Evaluation for Applications with Different Thread Affinities on the Intel Xeon Phi

The Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor offers high parallelism on energy-efficient hardware to minimize energy consumption while maintaining performance. Dynamic frequency and voltage scaling is not accessible on the Intel Xeon Phi. Hence, saving energy relies mainly on tuning application performance. One general optimization technique is thread affinity, which is an important factor in multi-core architectures. This work investigates the effects of varying thread affinity modes and reducing core utilization on energy and execution time for the NASA Advanced Supercomputing Parallel Benchmarks (NPB). Energy measurements are captured using the micsmc utility tool available on Xeon Phi. The measurements are checked against total power captured using Watts up power meters. The results are compared to the system-default thread affinity and granularity modes. Mostly positive impacts on performance and energy are observed: When executed at the maximum thread count on all unoccupied cores, all the benchmarks but one exhibited energy savings if a specific affinity mode is set.
Intramolecular azide cycloaddition (IAC) reactions in the indole series - an approach to clavicipitic acid

Abstract The intramolecular [3+2] cycloaddition of azide to olefin has been explored as a possible route to the structurally unique alkaloid clavicipitic acid.
On the optimization properties of the correntropic loss function in data analysis

Similarity measures play a critical role in the solution quality of data analysis methods. Outliers or noise often taint the solution, hence, practical data analysis calls for robust measures. The correntropic loss function is a smooth and robust measure. In this paper, we present the properties of the correntropic loss function that can be utilized in optimization based data analysis methods.
Complexity in Graduate Medical Education: A Collaborative Education Agenda for Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine

Internal medicine residents today face significant challenges in caring for an increasingly complex patient population within ever-changing education and health care environments. As a result, medical educators, health care system leaders, payers, and patients are demanding change and accountability in graduate medical education (GME). A 2012 Society of General Internal Medicine (SGIM) retreat identified medical education as an area for collaboration between internal medicine and geriatric medicine. The authors first determined a short-term research agenda for resident education by mapping selected internal medicine reporting milestones to geriatrics competencies, and listing available sample learner assessment tools. Next, the authors proposed a strategy for long-term collaboration in three priority areas in clinical medicine that are challenging for residents today: (1) team-based care, (2) transitions and readmissions, and (3) multi-morbidity. The short-term agenda focuses on learner assessment, while the long-term agenda allows for program evaluation and improvement. This model of collaboration in medical education combines the resources and expertise of internal medicine and geriatric medicine educators with the goal of increasing innovation and improving outcomes in GME targeting the needs of our residents and their patients.
Praise the lord and say no to men: Older women empowering themselves in Samia, Kenya.

In rural western Kenya, older Samia women, often victims of forced marriage in youth, are refusing traditional widow inheritance (remarriage) and renewed male domination after a husband's death. They make their refusals in the strategic public discourse of funeral speeches. The ability of older women to bring about change in female roles and power is related to their positions in extended families and support from ‘saved’ Christians. Examination of Samia women's everyday resistance to patriarchal power reveals the dynamics of gender relations within the overlapping power structures of kinship hierarchies, marriage, and religion (Christianity). It is also an example of religious renewal as a force in social change.
CH 4 , H 2 , CO and N 2 O in submarine hydrothermal vent waters

Hydrothermal circulation systems of mid-ocean ridges profoundly influence the chemistry of the oceans and the oceanic crust1–3. This has been demonstrated for several major and minor constituents of seawater4 and trace metals5. In addition, several volatile compounds including helium6,7 as well as methane and hydrogen8–11 are introduced to the sea floor in concentrations greatly exceeding that of ambient bottom water. We present here our measurements of concentrations of methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide in the hydrothermal vent waters from the Galapagos Spreading Centre (GSC). The relationships of these constituents to silicon were unique for each vent field, with nitrous oxide at East of Eden being the only instance of negative correlation. These gases could serve as important energy sources, in addition to hydrogen sulphide, for the chemosynthetic bacteria which support the extensive and diverse animal population living in these environments12,13.
Reactions of ethylaluminum chlorides with Sodium Sulfate

Abstract Reactions of diethylaluminum chloride, ethylaluminum dichloride and ethylaluminum sesquichloride with sodium sulfate were carried out. Diethylaluminum chloride exchanges quantitatively chlorine for sulfate with sodium sulfate,and forms a n-heptane-soluble organometallic compound having the empirical formula (C 2 H 5 ) 4 Al 2 SO 4 and a molecular weight of about 2300 in benzene. Two kinds of reaction are observed between ethylaluminum dichloride and sodium sulfate: formation of a complex which is insoluble in n-heptane and the dismutation reaction to diethylaluminum chloride. Reactions of ethylaluminum sesquichloride with sodium sulfate can be explained in forms of separate reactions of sodium sulfate with diethylaluminum chloride, and ethylaluminum dichloride.
The determination of some insecticidal residues in soils by bioassay

Soil samples having received heavy applications of DDT, toxaphene, dieldrin and BHC were bioassayed for residues. Extracts were obtained from 0 to 3 and 3 to 6 inch levels by use of a 4: 1 solution of hexane and acetone. A photomigration technique, employing the use of mosquito larvae, was followed for making the analyses. A comparison is made of the amounts of residues of the insecticides recovered.
A Community Divided: Defense Attorneys and the Ethics of Death Row Volunteering

When death row inmates elect to waive appeals and proceed directly to execution a series of problematic legal and ethical questions are raised. This article examines the ethics of volunteering from the perspective of death row inmates'defense attorneys. Studying attorneys is important for two reasons: since they are charged with protecting their clients' interests they must resolve the difficult question of whether death is ever in someone's best interest; and perhaps more important, most death row defense attorneys are themselves against the death penalty and must thus negotiate between their clients' desire for execution and their own personal value systems. Interviews were conducted with 20 attorneys who have participated in representing would-be volunteers. Qualitative analysis suggests that most are faced with profound ethical dilemmas, both professional and personal, when a client elects to waive appeals. This article explores how attorneys interpret, experience, and resolve those dilemmas.
Comment on ‘‘Calculating the weak scale in supergravity models’’

Kappen's ``\ensuremath{\Lambda}-space'' approach to radiative symmetry breaking in supergravity models is discussed. It is shown that this approach does not sum the leading-logarithmic radiative corrections. It is also pointed out that the threshold effects in the conventional renormalization-group (RG) approach are much smaller than apprehended by Kappen. It is finally argued that the threshold effects at the ultrahigh scale cannot be determined in the ``\ensuremath{\Lambda}-space'' approach, and that this definition of scalar masses contains the same ambiguities as the RG approach.
A rare cause of chest pain and ventricular fibrillation

Aman in his late 50s presented with sudden-onset chest pain followedbyashockfromhis implantablecardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). His history included a cardiac arrest secondary to ventricular fibrillation resulting in ICD implantation 1yearprior, chronicobstructivepulmonarydisease,hypertension,andactivetobaccoandalcoholabuse. Therewas no history of hyperlipidemia or family history of coronary arterydisease.His initial symptomwasparesthesia in the righthand, whichprogresseduphisarmandwasfollowedbychest tightnessand dyspnea.Notably,hehad6similarpresentations intheprecedingyear, butmyocardial infarction hadbeen ruled out by serial electrocardiograms (ECGs) and cardiac biomarker results on all occasions. On arrival to the hospital, his blood pressure was 109/77 mmHg, heart ratewas 66 beats/min, and blood oxygen saturation was97%while breathing roomair. Hewas admitted to thehospital and received3 additional shocks fromhis ICD in the emergencydepartment. EachshockwasprecededbychestpainandECGchanges that resolved after administration of sublingual nitroglycerin. One of theseECGs is shown inFigure 1,whichprompted immediatecoronary angiography. Questions: What is the etiology of his chest pain? Why did his ICD fire? Patient Course Coronary angiography showed no obstructive coronary artery disease, with only a 30% stenosis in his circumflex coronary artery. Initial views showed diffuse vasospasm of both the right and left coronary arteries, which resolved with administration of intracoronary nitroglycerin (Figure 2). Tests for serum creatine kinase and troponin T had negative results. His lipid panel results were notable for total cholesterol of 127 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of 67 mg/dL (to convert to millimoles per liter, multiply by 0.0259). Interrogation of the ICD revealed 4 episodes of ventricular fibrillation with appropriate treatment (Figure 3), each preceded by chest pain. He received a diagnosis of coronary vasospasm leading to ventricular fibrillation and was treated with a statin, antiplatelet therapy, long-acting nitrate, and amlodipine besylate (dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers). He continued to have recurrent episodes of chest pain and ST-segment elevation while receiving amlodipine, so he was switched to verapamil hydrochloride (phenylalkylamine class of calcium channel blockers), after which he had no recurrence of chest pain or ST-segment elevation on ECG. He was exhorted to cease tobacco and alcohol use and discharged home.
Degeneration of mammalian PNS and CNS axons is accelerated by incubation with protein synthesis inhibitors

Abstract Protein synthesis inhibitors (PSIs) increase the rate of degeneration, as measured by compound action potential (CAP) conduction, in segments of rat PNS and CNS axons. Sciatic axonal segments maintained in vitro in Krebs at 37–38 °C generate CAPs for 24 h compared to 8 h for axons exposed to Krebs containing two PSIs, 100 μM anisomycin and/or 35 μM cycloheximide. Spinal axonal segments at 37–38 °C generate CAPs for 3 h compared to 2 h for axons exposed to Krebs containing PSIs. While cooling (6–9 °C) slows degeneration rate, cooled sciatic axons exposed to PSIs exhibit lower peak CAPs compared to cooled control segments ( P
Environmental conditions influence the content and yield of anthocyanins and total phenolics in purple- and red-flesh potatoes during tuber development

Changes in content and yield of anthocyanins (ACY) and total phenolics (PHEN) during development of purple- and red-flesh potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) were studied in cultivars grown in Texas and Colorado. In both locations, the ACY and PHEN content (mg/100 g tissue) decreased with tuber growth and maturity, while tuber weight (kg), total yield (Ton ha-1) and compound yields (kg ha-1) increased. Longer days and cooler temperatures in Colorado favored about a 2.5- and 1.4-times higher ACY and PHEN content, respectively, than in Texas-grown tubers. Harvesting potatoes at later maturity stages maximized compound yields while minimizing the glycoalkaloid content. This information can be useful to potato breeders and producers in selecting appropriate growing conditions for the enhancement of natural colorant and antioxidant yields in purple- and red-flesh potatoes for the nutraceutical and food industry.
Application of Optimal Control Theory in Solid-State NMR. Time-Suspension Multiple-Pulse Sequences

Abstract Optimal control theory (computer-aided design and optimization) is applied in a search for new time-suspension pulse sequences which scale both linear and bilinear spin interactions to zero. This computer-aided approach allows one to rapidly examine and assess the characteristics of different time-suspension pulse sequences. The objective of our search is to find a sequence which operates effectively at modest RF field strengths. The initial result of this search is a simple semiwindowless, four-pulse sequence. The basic structure of this sequence is similar to that of a semiwindowless WAHUHA sequence, but with different pulse tip angles and delays resulting from the requirements for maximum overall scaling of the homonuclear dipole-dipole and chemical-shift Hamiltonians. Theoretical results are presented on how this sequence behaves with regard to resonance offsets and spin system parameters (couplings and chemical shifts). The experimental line-narrowing performance of this sequence as a function of RF field strength and resonance offset is examined and its performance is compared to those of two other time-suspension pulse sequences as well as the theoretical predictions. At moderate RF field strengths and small resonance offsets, this new sequence is found to perform reasonably well, but line-narrowing performance improves at higher RF field strengths or large resonance offsets. The experimental results corroborate the theoretical expectations. Possible applications for the use of this sequence, in particular solid-state imaging, are discussed.
Fabrication of C/SiC composites by an electrodeposition/sintering method and the control of the properties

Carbon fibre reinforced SiC matrix composites (C/SiC composites) were fabricated using an electrodeposition/sintering method and the control of properties such as flexural strength. Young's modulus and thermal expansion coefficient was investigated in order to fabricate C/SiC-based functionally gradient materials. By means of choosing the condition of electrodeposition and sintering, C/SiC composites with volume fraction of fibre (Vf) ranging from 45 to 78% were fabricated. Maximum flexural strength and Young's modulus were 185 MPa and 47.5 GPa with Vf of 75%, but both properties decreased with the decrease in Vf. Conversely, the thermal expansion coefficient increased with the decrease in Vf; the value varied from 0.2 to 2.75 × 10−6K−1.
Slaves by nature? Domestic animals and human slaves

(1994). Slaves by nature? Domestic animals and human slaves. Slavery & Abolition: Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 89-99.
A fuzzy multi-criteria approach for evaluating biofuels feedstocks

In this paper, we develop a fuzzy holistic approach evaluating the conventional and advanced biofuels feedstocks in meeting multiple economic, environmental and social criteria of the biofuels policies and capturing the uncertainties of policy evaluation and design processes. We use a multi-criteria approach PROMETHEE (Preference Ranking Organization METHod for Enrichment Evaluations) and fuzzy set theory to show how missing information, fuzziness, and ambiguity in decision making processes can be internalized in the process of creating a sustainable biofuels policy.
On the Use of QuikSCAT Scatterometer Measurements of Surface Winds for Marine Weather Prediction

The value of Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) measurements of 10-m ocean vector winds for marine weather prediction is investigated from two Northern Hemisphere case studies. The first of these focuses on an intense cyclone with hurricane-force winds that occurred over the extratropical western North Pacific on 10 January 2005. The second is a 17 February 2005 example that is typical of sea surface temperature influence on low-level winds in moderate wind conditions in the vicinity of the Gulf Stream in the western North Atlantic. In both cases, the analyses of 10-m winds from the NCEP and ECMWF global numerical weather prediction models considerably underestimated the spatial variability of the wind field on scales smaller than 1000 km compared with the structure determined from QuikSCAT observations. The NCEP and ECMWF models both assimilate QuikSCAT observations. While the accuracies of the 10-m wind analyses from these models measurably improved after implementation of the QuikSCAT data assimilation, the information content in the QuikSCAT data is underutilized by the numerical models. QuikSCAT data are available in near–real time in the NOAA/NCEP Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (N-AWIPS) and are used extensively in manual analyses of surface winds. The high resolution of the QuikSCAT data is routinely utilized by forecasters at the NOAA/NCEP Ocean Prediction Center, Tropical Prediction Center, and other NOAA weather forecast offices to improve the accuracies of wind warnings in marine forecasts.
Quantitative determination 0f glucose and galactose in gangliosides by gas-liquid chromatography

Abstract 1. 1. During 1963 and 1964, Sweeley et al . 8,15 reported the use of trimethylsilyl ether derivatives for the separation of polyhydroxy compounds by gas-liquid chromatography. This basic procedure has been used and a method developed for the quantitative determination of glucose and galactose from sub-milligram amounts of ganglioside. 2. 2. The samples are prepared for analysis by adding a known amount of mannitol to the ganglioside sample, and converting the hexoses to the glycosides by a simple methanolysis procedure. Interfering materials are removed from the reaction mixture by ion exchange and extraction techniques. The mannitol and glycosides are then converted to the trimethylsilyl ether derivatives for gas-liquid chromatography analysis. 3. 3. The absolute quantities of glucose and galactose can be calculated from the peak areas of the individual components. 4. 4. The method allows the determination of glucose and galactose in gangliosides with an accuracy of 5–6%.
Commentary on: labioplasty: anatomy, etiology, and a new surgical approach.

Although still uncommon, cosmetic alteration is increasingly being sought by women unhappy with the size, shape, and/or appearance of their external genitalia. Aesthetic labioplasty, primarily reduction of the labia minora, is by far the most frequently performed female external genital cosmetic procedure today.1 Despite its increasing incidence, many plastic surgeons have little or no experience in performing aesthetic labioplasty. In “Labioplasty: Anatomy, Etiology, and a New Surgical Approach,” Dr. Tepper and his coauthors review the anatomy of the labia minora, the etiologies of labia minora hypertrophy, and the history of labioplasty, in addition to describing previously-published aesthetic labioplasty surgical techniques. They also offer a new labioplasty technique, the modified double-wedge resection (or “star” labioplasty), reviewing their experience with the technique in eight cases. Tepper …
Luminescence of Cu+ centers in SrCl2

Abstract Absorption, excitation and emission spectra have been obtained for Cu+-doped single crystals of SrCl2, and the emission lifetimes have been determined for this system. It was found that, in this host lattice, microcrystals of CuCl from whose spectroscopic properties (including excitonic absorption and emission) are similar to those of bulk CuCl. A broad-band, efficient luminescence was observed and attributed to Cu+ dimers. It was possible to observe absorption and emission spectra due to isolated Cu+ ions by quenching the Cu-doped SrCl2 crystals from high temperature.
Isochoric Heat Capacity for Toluene near Phase Transitions and the Critical Point

New measurements of isochoric heat capacity CV for toluene near phase transitions and the critical point are presented. Measurements were made with a high-temperature, high-pressure, adiabatic calorimeter of nearly constant volume. The inner volume of the calorimeter is (104.441 ± 0.002) cm3 at 297.15 K and 0.1 MPa. The heat capacity of the empty calorimeter C0 was measured by use of a reference fluid (helium-4) with a well-known heat capacity (uncertainty of 0.1%). The temperature of the sample was measured with a 10 Ω PRT with an uncertainty of 10 mK. Uncertainties of the heat capacity measurements are estimated to be 2% to 3%. Measurements were made in the single- and two-phase regions. The experimental values of phase transition temperatures TS(ρ) and single- and two-phase isochoric heat capacities (CV1, CV2) on each measured isochore were determined by use of a quasi-static thermogram method. Measurements were made along 12 isochores between (199.3 and 525.0) kg·m-3 in the temperature range from (411...
E-commerce quality and adoptive elements of e-ticketing for entertainment and sporting events

The present study is an attempt to discover some of the statistically significant outlines motivations and factors that influence the quality in e-ticketing, which affects customers' perceptions, preferences, and intentions. Consumers, especially business professions - the subjects of this study - are constantly demanding higher quality e-commerce services. All three hypotheses were found to be highly significant and positively related to promoting the perceived value of e-ticketing technologies, especially for sport-related events. Based on technology adoption models, e-ticketing does provide significant levels of perceived value and its linkage to customer satisfaction are important factors as well as operational costs. It seems obvious that box office staffs will become smaller in size as more e-ticketing devices and acceptance increases. Technological applications should continue to grow, and eventual acceptance of ticket kiosks, wireless ticket purchases, will undoubtedly change from being an industry rarity to an industry standard.
Partial nephrectomy for renal cancer: Part I.

Kidney Cancer Is The Third Most Common Genitourinary Tumour With 57 760 New Cases And 12 980 Deaths Expected In 2009 [1]. There Are Currently Two Distinct Groups Of Patients With Kidney Cancer. The First Consists Of The Symptomatic, Large, Locally Advanced Tumours Often Presenting With Regional Adenopathy, Adrenal Invasion, And Extension Into The Renal Vein Or Inferior Vena Cava. Despite Radical Nephrectomy (Rn) In Conjunction With Regional Lymphadenectomy And Adrenalectomy, Progression To Distant Metastasis And Death From Disease Occurs In = 30% Of These Patients. For Patients Presenting With Isolated Metastatic Disease, Metastasectomy In Carefully Selected Patients Has Been Associated With Long-term Survival [2]. For Patients With Diffuse Metastatic Disease And An Acceptable Performance Status, Cytoreductive Nephrectomy Might Add Several Additional Months Of Survival, As Opposed To Cytokine Therapy Alone, And Prepare Patients For Integrated Treatment, Now In Neoadjuvant And Adjuvant Clinical Trials, With The New Multitargeted Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (Sunitinib, Sorafenib) And Mtor Inhibitors (Temsirolimus, Everolimus) [3,4].
A model for clay filter cake properties

Abstract Clay filter cake properties, such as porosity, compressibility and permeability, have been studied by means of a structural network model. The electric double layer repulsion and Van der Waals attraction forces together with the equilibrium conditions of the network structure are shown to be fundamental in simulating the properties of filter cakes. The factors which affect the properties of filter cakes, such as clay particle size, salt concentration, and surface charge density have also been investigated. Results from the model show that the porosity, compressibility and permeability are predictable functions of compression pressure. The porosity of a filter cake is very sensitive to the degree of aggregation of clay particles. The compressibility of filter cakes is most sensitive to the size of clay particles and to the salt concentration. Salt concentration is also a sensitive factor influencing the permeability of filter cakes and its dependence on applied pressure. The porosity, compressibility and permeability are obtained as a function of compression pressure and can be used in static or dynamic filtration calculations.
Personal characteristics, relationship quality, and social support perceptions and behavior in young adult romantic relationships

This study investigated three questions: (1) Do both personal characteristics and perceived qualities of romantic relationships contribute to partners’perceptions of support? (2) Do these variables predict supportive behavior in partner interactions that can be observed by others? (3) How do situational characteristics affect the predictors of observed supportive behavior? Eighty-six university undergraduates and their romantic partners completed a questionnaire packet and participated in a structured videotaped interaction that included a stress-inducing intervention. Participants’perceived support from the relationship was predicted by participants’own personal characteristics and view of the relationship, as well as by partners’personal characteristics. Observed supportive behavior in a somewhat familiar task was related to personal characteristics of both partners and their views of the relationship. Supportive behavior after an experimenter-administered stressor was predicted only by the couple's personal characteristics. Results demonstrate how study of social support in close relationships can advance understanding of relations between support perception and support receipt.
Generating and Generalizing Knowledge about Psychotherapy from Pragmatic Case Studies

An epistemological case is made for how single subject psychotherapy research provides unique and untapped opportunities for generating and generalizing scientific knowledge about psychotherapy. The epistemological claim asserts that it is essential that problem and method be aligned in psychotherapy research. Examples of misalignment in experimental and correlational contexts are given and their consequences discussed. Both Molenaar and Valsiner's (2005) genetic metaphor of phenotypes and genotypes and Lewin's (1931) concept of Aristotelian and Galileian thinking provides further epistemological grounds for the value of single subject research. Several suggestions are made for how to reconcile the epistemological problems discussed. Finally, examples are given of how a database generated by the PCSP journal process might serve as a tool to generate and generalize psychotherapy knowledge.
Lithium‐stimulated proliferation and alteration of phosphoinositide metabolites in MCF‐7 human breast cancer cells

Lithium, which is used to treat bipolar psychiatric disorders, can stimulate proliferation of a number of cells in tissue culture. Proliferation of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells, which also respond to EGF and estrogens, was stimulated by LiCl (1-5 mM) within the concentration range that is encountered during human therapy with lithium. Stimulation of growth was specific for lithium; rubidium, potassium, and sodium showed no such effect. In the presence of antiestrogen, lithium stimulated the growth of hormone-dependent breast cancer cells MCF-7, ZR-75-1, and T47D but not hormone-independent MDA-MB-231 cells or an estrogen-independent clone of MCF-7 cells. Lithium-stimulated proliferation was limited by cytotoxicity which could be moderated by added potassium chloride (5-20 mM) in the medium. Each of the mitogens lithium, 17 beta-estradiol, and EGF increased the rate of uptake of myo-inositol into MCF-7 cells. Whether normalized to inositol lipids, to protein, or to DNA, steady-state levels of inositol phosphates were elevated by each of the mitogens including lithium, which inhibits the breakdown of inositol phosphates in the phosphoinositide signaling pathway. These data indicate that therapeutic concentrations of lithium can stimulate the proliferation of human breast cancer cells by a mechanism that may involve the phosphoinositide pathway.
Designing Discontinuity Regions in Structural Concrete with Computer-Based Strut-and-Tie Methodology

The strut-and-tie method (STM) was introduced in 1994 in the AASHTO load and resistance factor design specifications. Within the strut-and-tie design approach, an internal truss, consisting of concrete struts and steel ties, carries the loadings through the D-region to its supports or boundaries. To create this truss, reinforcing or prestressing steel is selected to serve as the ties, whereas dimensions for struts and joints (nodal zones) are chosen so that they have sufficient strength. The STM design process typically requires selecting an appropriate internal truss, adjusting and refining the truss, and conducting multiple truss analyses, for different load combinations. Completing this design process by hand can be time consuming. The computer-aided strut-and-tie (CAST) design tool is being developed to overcome this challenge. CAST provides a single graphical interface that enables the designer to sketch and analyze the idealized truss, to select member dimensions and tie reinforcement, to readily adjust all design variables, and to create a printout of the final design.
Old world monkey vocalizations: adaptation to the local habitat?

Abstract Twenty-one representative vocalizations of two species of rain forest monkeys (blue monkeys, Cercopithecus mitis, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, Cercocebus albigena) and two species of savanna monkeys (vervet monkeys, Cercopithecus aethiops, and yellow baboons, Papio cynocephalus) were broadcast in both rain forest and savanna habitats. Broadcast signals were re-recorded at distances of 12·5 and 100 m, digitized, and analysed on a supercomputer to measure the magnitude of distortion of the vocal repertoires of the savanna and forest monkeys in both the ‘appropriate’ and ‘inappropriate’ habitats. Independent distortion analyses were conducted in the time and frequency domains. The results showed that (1) distortion was strong following transmission distances of only 12·5 m in both habitats, (2) distortion scores were further increased, but only by a modest amount, when transmission distance was increased (3) distortion scores were greater in the savanna habitat than in the rain forest habitat, (4) rain forest monkey calls were distorted less in the ‘appropriate’ rain forest habitat than in the ‘inappropriate’ savanna habitat, but (5) savanna monkey calls were similarly distorted in both habitats. The results were consistent with the idea that the rain forest environment is generally more favourable for high-fidelity sound propagation, and that selection for reduced distortion has more strongly influenced the physical form of the vocal repertoire of the two rain forest species than that of the two savanna species.
On languages with a certain prefix property

A languageL has theprefix property if for allx, y ∈ L, eitherx is a prefix ofy ory is a prefix ofx. It is shown that for certain classes of languages, if a language in the class has the prefix property, then it is a regular set. The results provide new distinctions between classes as well as new profs of previously known distinctions.
"Culture Fatigue": The State and Minority Rights in Botswana

The circulation and intersection of supranational rights, discourses, and practices with local struggles have contributed to victories, disappointments, and in many instances, new articulations and understandings of rights for local people. In Botswana, the ever-increasing interaction of minority groups with international institutions, laws and conventions, nongovernmental groups (NGOs), and the Botswana courts has created a dialectic that continues to reshape vernacular rights discourses. The state has also been a party in this evolving dialectic and has found new means of intervening in the process. The Botswana state prides itself on its liberal practices and has received international acclaim as a result. The state’s success in promoting individual-based human rights provides a context for minorities to self-identify, recognize their oppression, and safely challenge the state. Initially disarmed by minority demands and legal action, the state has now attempted to redefine the goals of minorities and to reduce the substance and redress of justice claims to support for and celebration of minority groups' dance, food, and costume. This has produced, in the words of minority activists, “culture fatigue.” This paper will examine these processes; consider the conflicting and converging discourses and practices resulting from the mutual absorption of rights dialogue on the part of local groups, international bodies, and the state; and discuss the ways in which these have supported, clashed with, strengthened, or distorted the positions and outcomes of the various actors and their projects.
Osmoregulation in three hermit crab species, Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc), Pagurus longicarpus say and P. Pollicaris say (Crustacea: Decapoda; Anomura)☆

Abstract 1. 1. For transfers from 25 to 10%o salinity, three hermit crab species were able to re-establish osmotic equilibrium after 12 hr exposure to the new medium. 2. 2. The blood of Pagurus longicarpus Say and P. pollicaris Say was isosmotic to the external medium over the entire salinity range tested (5 to 40%). 3. 3. Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc) was an isoconformer at salinities of 25%o and higher, and a hyper-regulator below 25%o salinity. 4. 4. No differences were found between cold (15°C) and warm (25°C) acclimated crabs.
Evaluation of satellite rainfall estimates over Ethiopian river basins

Abstract. High resolution satellite-based rainfall estimates (SREs) have enormous potential for use in hydrological applications, particularly in the developing world as an alternative to conventional rain gauges which are typically sparse. In this study, three SREs have been evaluated against collocated rain gauge measurements in Ethiopia across six river basins that represent different rainfall regimes and topography. The comparison is made using five-year (2003–2007) averages, and results are stratified by river basin, elevation and season. The SREs considered are: the Climate Prediction Center morphing method (CMORPH), Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information Using Neural Networks (PERSIANN) and the real-time version of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) 3B42RT. Overall, the microwave-based products TMPA 3B42RT and CMORPH outperform the infrared-based product PERSIANN: PERSIANN tends to underestimate rainfall by 43 %, while CMORPH tends to underestimate by 11 % and TMPA 3B42RT tends to overestimate by 5 %. The bias in the satellite rainfall estimates depends on the rainfall regime, and, in some regimes, the elevation. In the northwest region, which is characterized mainly by highland topography, a humid climate and a strong Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) effect, elevation has a strong influence on the accuracy of the SREs: TMPA 3B42RT and CMORPH tend to overestimate at low elevations but give reasonably accurate results at high elevations, whereas PERSIANN gives reasonably accurate values at low elevations but underestimates at high elevations. In the southeast region, which is characterized mainly by lowland topography, a semi-arid climate and southerly winds, elevation does not have a significant influence on the accuracy of the SREs, and all the SREs underestimate rainfall across almost all elevations.