cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of Oxidative Stress, Autophagy and Apoptosis in the I4895T RyR1 Knockin Mice

I4898T mutation in the skeletal muscle ryanodine receptor (RyR1) in humans has been suggested to underlie Central Core Disease (CCD). CCD is the congenital myopathy characterized by muscle weakness of lower extremities leading to delayed attainment of motor skill milestones. We created mice with a corresponding RyR1 I4895T mutation. Although no central cores were observed in the muscle of these mice, this uncoupling mutation dramatically reduces voluntary running. The soleus muscle from the I4895T mice displays decreased ability to generate force, increased oxidative stress, decreased antioxidant capacity and decreased cytochrome c oxidase activity (suggesting mitochondrial damage). We also find evidence of both autophagy and apoptosis in the mutant muscle since Atg5, Atg6 (Beclin1), Atg9, Atg12, Bcl2, caspase family members, C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) are all upregulated in the soleus. Upregulation of several ER stress related proteins (BiP, IRE1α, and PDI) was also observed. We propose that the I4895 mutation is associated with the oxidative stress, an unfolded protein response (UPR), autophagy and apoptosis, all of which may contribute to mitochondrial destruction associated with this disease.
A macroscopic model for shear-thinning flow in packed beds based on network modeling

Abstract The flow of non-Newtonian fluids in packed beds and other porous media is important in several applications such as polymer processing, filtration, and enhanced oil recovery. Expressions for flowrate versus pressure gradient are desirable for a-priori prediction and for substitution into continuum models. In this work, physically representative network models are used to model the flow of shear-thinning fluids, including power-law and Ellis fluids. The networks are used to investigate the effects of fluid rheology and bed morphology on flow. A simple macroscopic model is developed for the flow of power-law and Ellis fluids in packed beds using results from the network model. The model has the same general functionality as those developed using the popular bundle-of-tubes approach. The constant β , which appears in these models, is often directly derived from the tortuosity and a simple representation of the porous media. It is shown here that this can lead to incorrect and ambiguous values of the constant. Furthermore, the constant is a weak function of the shear-thinning index, indicating that no single bundle-of-tubes could ever properly model flow for a wide variety of shear-thinning fluids. The macroscopic model is compared to experimental data for shear-thinning fluids available in the literature. The model fits the data well when β is treated as an experimental parameter. The best-fit values of β vary, which is expected because even the constant C in the Blake–Kozeny equation varies depending on the source consulted. Additionally, physical effects, such as adsorption and filtration, as well as rheological effects such as viscoelasticity may affect the value of β . We believe that in the absence of these effects, β equals approximately 1.46 for packed beds of uniform spheres at relatively moderate values of the shear-thinning index ( > 0.3 ) .
The effects of cations on the structure and photochemistry of the photosystem II core complex

Abstract We have studied the effects of cations and detergents on the structure (molecular weight) and photochemistry of Triton X-100 Photosystem II subchloroplast particles (TSF-IIa). The effect of Mg2+ ions on activity depended on the Triton X-100 content of the preparation. If the residual Triton X-100 was not removed prior to assay, MgCl2 increased the rate of electron transport, acting at a site on the reducing side of Photosystem II. Lowering the pH also increased the rate of electron transport. If the Triton X-100 was removed from the particles, both MgCl2 and NaCl caused a decrease in the rate of electron transport. Addition of Triton X-100 caused a reversible decrease in the number of active Photosystem II reaction centers. Both cations and Triton X-100 had a profound effect on the molecular weight of the Photosystem II particles as determined by gel filtration. At 20 °C, addition of 0.05% Triton X-100 decreased the molecular weight from a high value (≥800,000) to 250,000. At 4 °C, addition of 1 m m MgCl2 or 100 m m NaCl increased the molecular weight of the complex. In the absence of these salts 67% of the protein eluted with a molecular weight of 460,000 (the rest was >800,000-in the void volume). In the presence of these salts all of the material had a molecular weight of ≥800,000. A similar effect was observed when the pH was lowered from 8 to 6. Further work is needed to determine whether there is a correlation between the changes in molecular weight and activity.
Interaction of Survival and Death Signaling in Basal Forebrain Neurons: Roles of Neurotrophins and Proneurotrophins

Proneurotrophins bind with high affinity to p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and lack the capacity to bind Trk receptors, suggesting that proneurotrophins can elicit apoptosis via p75NTR even in cells expressing survival-promoting Trk receptors. In the CNS, basal forebrain (BF) neurons are particularly vulnerable to degeneration in Alzheimer's disease, and are among the few populations of brain neurons that express p75NTR throughout life. These neurons also express Trk receptors and may be concomitantly exposed to both proneurotrophins and mature neurotrophins during development, disease, or after injury. We investigated the interaction of mature and proneurotrophin signaling in these CNS neurons. Kainic acid-induced seizures elicited production of pro-NGF by BF astrocytes before caspase activation in p75NTR-positive BF neurons, demonstrating local production of proneurotrophins under pathological conditions and suggesting apoptotic signaling in vivo. Mechanisms of proneurotrophin-induced death were analyzed in cultured BF neurons, and required both p75NTR and its coreceptor sortilin. Surprisingly, exposure to both mature neurotrophins and proneurotrophins demonstrated that Trk phosphorylation did not prevent pro-NGF-induced apoptosis via p75NTR. However, activation of PI3K (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase)/Akt and MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase)/Erk pathways prevented pro-NGF-induced apoptosis, revealing a novel critical checkpoint in survival versus apoptotic signaling downstream of Trk activation, and suggesting that pro-NGF blocks survival signaling by preventing Akt and Erk activation. This study shows that proneurotrophins are produced in the brain under pathological conditions, and can elicit apoptosis of BF neurons even when Trk receptors are activated.
Mass-radius relationships and constraints on the composition of Pluto. II

With the new upper limit of Pluto's mass, an upper limit for Pluto's density of 1.74 g/cu cm has been found. Assuming Pluto to be 100% methane, available methane density data can be used to set a lower limit of 0.53 g/cu cm on Pluto's density, thus placing an absolute upper limit of 1909 km on the radius and a lower limit of 0.32 on the albedo. The results of 280 computer models covering a wide range of composition ratios of rock, water ice, and methane ice are reported. Limits are placed on Pluto's silicate content, and a simple spacecraft method for determining Pluto's water content from its density and moment of inertia is given. The low thermal conductivity and strength of solid methane suggest rapid solid-state convection in Pluto's methane layer.
Sensitization of Austenitic Stainless Steels, I. Controlled Purity Alloys

Abstract This paper presents a study of the effects of carbon, nitrogen, molybdenum, and manganese on the sensitization of high-purity austenitic stainless steels of composition similar to Type 304. The modified Strauss test (ASTM-A262-E), the oxalic acid etch test (ASTM-A262A) and analytical electron microscopy were used to determine the degree and nature of sensitization in the steels. The alloy compositions are considered in terms of effective chromium content, and from plots of this parameter versus sensitization time a strong effect of carbon content is seen. Additions of nitrogen, molybdenum, and manganese are found to delay sensitization at any given carbon concentration. In the case of nitrogen, the amount of improvement depends on both the carbon content and the sensitization temperature. Strong evidence is presented that nitrogen acts to retard the nucleation and/or growth of carbides at grain boundaries and hence increase the time necessary for sensitization. Molybdenum appears to increase the ...
Prolonged FGF signaling is necessary for lung and liver induction in Xenopus

Background FGF signaling plays numerous roles during organogenesis of the embryonic gut tube. Mouse explant studies suggest that different thresholds of FGF signaling from the cardiogenic mesoderm induce lung, liver, and pancreas lineages from the ventral foregut progenitor cells. The mechanisms that regulate FGF dose in vivo are unknown. Here we use Xenopus embryos to examine the hypothesis that a prolonged duration of FGF signaling from the mesoderm is required to induce foregut organs.
Hurricane wind speed and rain rate measurements using the airborne Hurricane Imaging Radiometer (HIRAD)

Microwave remote sensing of surface wind speed and rain rate in hurricanes is critical to predict their growth and movement as they develop and make landfall. The Hurricane Imaging Radiometer (HIRAD) is an experimental airborne microwave radiometer developed by NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to provide ocean surface wind speed and rain rate measurements in hurricanes. It is intended to expand the current NOAA and US Air Force hurricane surveillance capability, particularly by extending the operational Stepped Frequency Microwave Radiometer (SFMR) measurement to a large swath. HIRAD also has potential for space applications. This paper will describe the HIRAD instrument and its flight history, to date, and present wind speed and rain rate retrievals from observed brightness temperatures (Tb's) in a flight over Hurricane Earl in 2010 as part of NASA's GRIP mission. A comparison between HIRAD and SFMR retrievals will be shown.
Induction of molting in Crustacea by an insect molting hormone.

Abstract Molting in a terrestrial isopod, Armadillidium vulgare , and in a fresh water crayfish, Procambarus sp. can be induced by an insect steroid hormone, ecdysterone. This is the first demonstration of induction of molting in a crustacean by a specific chemical. Arguments are presented that steroid hormones evolved in pre-Cambrian times, more than 600 million years ago.
Effects of surgical induction of endometriosis on response properties of preoptic area neurons in rats.

Abstract Subfertility and severe pelvic pains are symptoms associated with endometriosis (ENDO), a common condition among women that is characterized by the growth of the uterine endometrium on the surface of organs within the pelvic region and abdominal cavity. The contribution of the CNS to symptoms associated with ENDO is not known. In the present study, the preoptic area (POA) of the hypothalamus was investigated, as this region of the forebrain is known to play an important role in the neuroendocrine control of the reproductive cycle, mating behavior, and antinociception. Female rats were either induced for ENDO by autotransplantation of uterine tissue ( n = 20) or uterine fat for surgical sham controls ( n = 11). Terminal extracellular electrophysiological recordings (urethane anesthesia) were conducted in the POA six weeks post-ENDO induction when the rats were in either the proestrus or metestrus stages of their estrous cycle. Significant differences were found between the ENDO versus SHAM groups of animals for the proportion of inhibitory responses as well as the percentage of neurons responding to stimulation of the abdominal branches of the vagus, which innervates portions of the female reproductive tract, including the ovaries. The endometriotic cysts were found to be significantly larger in proestrus rats (stage when hormones are elevated). These data demonstrate that the responses of POA neurons are influenced by the presence of endometriotic cysts in the abdominal cavity. Since the POA is known to be part of the neural circuitries that mediate nociception and fertility, any deviation from its normal activity under ENDO conditions could contribute to the constellation of symptoms that ensue.
An MBoC Favorite: Axonal membrane proteins are transported in distinct carriers: a two-color video microscopy study in cultured hippocampal neurons

Neuronal cell bodies supply the axon and nerve terminal with organelle precursors, such as synaptic vesicle precursors, by means of membrane-bound carriers propelled by motors mounted on cytoskeletal tracks. Several neurodegenerative diseases, such as CharcotMarie-Tooth type 2 disease and hereditary spastic paraplegia, involve the defective delivery of organelles from the cell body and impaired bidirectional trafficking in long axons. The diversity of causative genetic mutations affecting, for example, endosome traffic proteins, such as the WASH complex, molecular motors and their cargo adaptors, and the shared clinical features of axonal degeneration suggest a corresponding diversity of precursor organelles that traffic in axons. In 2000, Kaether et al. were among the first to show that more than one type of precursor organelle is delivered to nerve terminals (Kaether et al., 2000). This seminal study directly demonstrated the sorting and bidirectional transport of two fluorescent-tagged axonal membrane proteins, amyloid precursor protein and synaptophysin, into different membrane-bound carriers in hippocampal neurons. These carriers possess morphological features and transport speeds that clearly differentiate them. Thus, diverse precursor carriers share a common function of providing axonal and synaptic compartments with their constituents.
A new mechanistic model for prediction of instantaneous coal outbursts - Dedicated to the memory of Prof. Daniel D. Joseph

Abstract An instantaneous coal outburst is a sudden and violent simultaneous ejection of large amounts of coal and gas (methane, carbon dioxide) from the working coalface during underground mining. The occurrence of such an outburst usually leads to a gas explosion and pollution of the mine. Despite extensive research efforts in the past 150 years, the physical mechanisms causing coal outbursts are still poorly understood. Here we present a new model combining fracture mechanics, gas dynamics and rock mechanics to elucidate the physical mechanisms leading to instantaneous outbursts. This model suggests a domino effect that leads to a catastrophic failure of the coal and an instantaneous outburst. The model identifies a critical condition for the onset of instantaneous outbursts, and it successfully predicts all of the observed phenomena preceding outbursts, most of which are explained for the first time. The model also predicts a fracture aperture size effect which is confirmed by the existing observation-based fracture classification scheme used to assess outburst proneness.
Sample derivatization and structure analysis by field desorption mass spectrometry. Peptide methylation—methanolysis

Analysis by field desorption mass spectrometry of reaction product mixtures produced by treatment of peptides with methanol and hydrogen chloride augments significantly structural data derived by direct field desorption mass spectrometry analysis of the peptides. Analyses of data obtained by three peptides, beta-Ala-HisOH, p-Glu-Ser-GlyOH and Glu-Ser-Gly-AspOH are used for illustration. Data from field desorption mass spectrometry of peptide methylation-methanolysis product mixtures are used to (a) distinguish [M]+- from [M + H]+ in peptide field desorption mass spectrometry spectra, (b) ascertain the number of carboxyl groups present in a peptide, (c) identify a pyro-glutamyl N-terminus and (d) derive peptide sequence information. Definitive assignments of ion relationships are facilitated by use of methanol and deuteromethanol in paired experiments.
Evidence for Acoustic Streaming in the Nematic Acousto-Optic Effect

Abstract In an effort to understand the acousto-optic effect in nematic liquid crystals both the velocity and the flow pattern in a disc-shaped sample of ordinary fluid have been experimentally determined. The hydrodynamic equations for an acoustically excited fluid disc are solved to second order and shown to agree with the experimental velocity measurements of the ordinary fluid disc as well as the observed light transmission pattern for a nematic disc.
Suppression of boll weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) infestations on south Texas cotton by augmentative releases of the parasite Catolaccus grandis (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae).

Abstract Augmentative releases of Catolaccus grandis (Burks) were conducted in a series of south Texas cotton fields during 1992 (April 30-June 29) in an attempt to suppress infestations of boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman. Within each of three release sites, the average incidence of mortality occurring among susceptible host stages (94.4-96.4% and 86.1-96.6% apparent mortality among third-stage larvae and pupae, respectively) was substantially greater than that occurring among these same stages in controls devoid of parasites (2.2-9.6% and 1.8-7.9% apparent mortality, respectively). Such differential mortality produced two important effects: (1) a significant reduction in densities of adult boll weevils produced in release sites relative to controls (0.0-0.1 and 0.3-1.6 unemerged adults/m2, respectively), and (2) a concomitant reduction in the incidence of damaged bells during the postbloom period (0.2-0.4% and 48.3-91.7% in release and control sites, respectively). These results conclusively demonstrated the ability of C. grandis to suppress and maintain boll weevil infestations at subeconomic levels when augmented in sufficient quantities during the period in which the first and second host generations normally develop on cultivated cotton. The potential for augmentative biological control of boll weevil in the south Texas cotton environment is discussed.
Pre-treatment effects of trichloroethylene on the dermal absorption of the biocide, triazine.

Abstract Triazine is often added to cutting-fluid formulations in the metal-machining industry as a preservative. Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a solvent used for cleaning the cutting fluid or oil from the metal product. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of TCE on the dermal absorption of triazine in an in vitro flow-through diffusion cell system. Skin sections were dosed topically with aqueous mixtures containing mineral oil or polyethylene glycol (PEG) spiked with 14 C-triazine. Some skin sections were simultaneously exposed to TCE while other skin sections were pre-treated with TCE daily for 4 days in vivo and then exposed to these mixtures in vitro. TCE pre-treatment almost doubled triazine permeability, but this pre-treatment had no effect on triazine diffusivity. The pre-treatment effects of TCE on triazine permeability appear to be more important in PEG-based mixtures than in the mineral oil-based mixtures. Simultaneous single exposure to TCE had little or no effect on triazine absorption. TCE absorption was significantly less than triazine absorption; however, cutting fluid additives had a more significant effect on TCE absorption than on triazine absorption. In summary, this study demonstrated that TCE pre-treatment can significantly alter the dermal permeability to triazine, and workers who are chronically exposed to this or similar cleansers may be at increased risk of absorbing related skin irritants.
Properties of Two-Species Bose Condensates

We present theoretical studies of a two-species Bose condensate. Using a new numerical method, we have calculated ground state wave functions and show that, due to interspecies interactions, the condensate mixture displays novel behavior not found in a pure condensate. We compared our results with those of the Thomas-Fermi approximation (TFA) and find that under a broad range of conditions the TFA can be reliably used to predict many qualitative features of the condensates. Using our technique, we have modeled a recent JILA experiment on dual spin-state ${}^{87}\mathrm{Rb}$ condensate. Finally, collective excitations of double condensates are discussed.
Surgical Management of Complications of Percutaneous Coronary Rotational Atherectomy Interventions

Percutaneous coronary interventions have progressed from angioplasty and intracoronary stents to the more aggressive rotational atherectomy devices. These technically complex procedures are typically performed on the more diseased anatomy, which causes the likelihood of complications to be more common. In this report, we present our experience with three unusual complications and their surgical management.
Digital microfluidic three-dimensional cell culture and chemical screening platform using alginate hydrogels

Electro wetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) digital microfluidics (DMF) can be used to develop improved chemical screening platforms using 3-dimensional (3D) cell culture. Alginate hydrogels are one common method by which a 3D cell culture environment is created. This paper presents a study of alginate gelation on EWOD DMF and investigates designs to obtain uniform alginate hydrogels that can be repeatedly addressed by any desired liquids. A design which allows for gels to be retained in place during liquid delivery and removal without using any physical barriers or hydrophilic patterning of substrates is presented. A proof of concept screening platform is demonstrated by examining the effects of different concentrations of a test chemical on 3D cells in alginate hydrogels. In addition, the temporal effects of the various chemical concentrations on different hydrogel posts are demonstrated, thereby establishing the benefits of an EWOD DMF 3D cell culture and chemical screening platform using alginate hydrogels.
Catenary soil relationships in the Çukurova Region, southern Turkey

Abstract A catenary sequence from the north to the south of the Cukurova Region was studied using pedo-geomorphological criteria. The catena studied is typical for the Mediterranean coastal areas covering surfaces — geomorphic units — formed by neotectonic activity and the following processes related to pedology. Each geomorphic unit was determined to comprise soils at different stages of development. However a trend showing increase of age with increasing elevation was found from the south to the north of the region. Soils occurring on Fluvio-Marine Terraces are Mollisols and Alfisols; on the Bajadas are Vertisols, Entisols and Inceptisols; on the River Terraces are Entisols; on the Bottom Lands are Entisols, Vertisols, Inceptisols; on the Delta are Vertisols, and Inceptisols; on the Coastal sand Dunes are Entisols; and on the Uplands are Entisols and Mollisols.
Variable C : N : P stoichiometry of dissolved organic matter cycling in the Community Earth System Model

Abstract. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) plays an important role in the ocean's biological carbon pump by providing an advective/mixing pathway for ~ 20% of export production. DOM is known to have a stoichiometry depleted in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) compared to the particulate organic matter pool, a fact that is often omitted from biogeochemical ocean general circulation models. However the variable C : N : P stoichiometry of DOM becomes important when quantifying carbon export from the upper ocean and linking the nutrient cycles of N and P with that of carbon. Here we utilize recent advances in DOM observational data coverage and offline tracer-modeling techniques to objectively constrain the variable production and remineralization rates of the DOM C : N : P pools in a simple biogeochemical-ocean model of DOM cycling. The optimized DOM cycling parameters are then incorporated within the Biogeochemical Elemental Cycling (BEC) component of the Community Earth System Model (CESM) and validated against the compilation of marine DOM observations. The optimized BEC simulation including variable DOM C : N : P cycling was found to better reproduce the observed DOM spatial gradients than simulations that used the canonical Redfield ratio. Global annual average export of dissolved organic C, N, and P below 100 m was found to be 2.28 Pg C yr−1 (143 Tmol C yr−1, 16.4 Tmol N yr−1, and 1 Tmol P yr−1, respectively, with an average export C : N : P stoichiometry of 225 : 19 : 1 for the semilabile (degradable) DOM pool. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) export contributed ~ 25% of the combined organic C export to depths greater than 100 m.
Adult degenerative scoliosis: a review.

OBJECTIVE: To review and define principles and features of treatment for adult degenerative scoliosis, the most common cause of adult spinal deformities. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a comprehensive review of the literature and our clinical experience. METHODS: A systematic review of Medline was conducted, including journal articles published in March 2007 and before. We searched for articles related to adult spinal deformities (scoliosis) and treatments. CONCLUSION: Degenerative scoliosis is a complex disorder. The primary surgical aims are to decompress the neural elements, normalize both sagittal balance and coronal and rotational deformity, fixate to the sacrum/ilium when appropriate, and optimize conditions for osteogenesis and fusion.
Isomerization and Decomposition Reactions in the Pyrolysis of Branched Hydrocarbons: 4-Methyl-1-pentyl Radical

The kinetics of the decomposition of 4-methyl-1-pentyl radicals have been studied from 927-1068 K at pressures of 1.78-2.44 bar using a single pulse shock tube with product analysis. The reactant radicals were formed from the thermal C-I bond fission of 1-iodo-4-methylpentane, and a radical inhibitor was used to prevent interference from bimolecular reactions. 4-Methyl-1-pentyl radicals undergo competing decomposition and isomerization reactions via beta-bond scission and 1, x-hydrogen migrations (x = 4, 5), respectively, to form short-chain radicals and alkenes. Major alkene products, in decreasing order of concentration, were propene, ethene, isobutene, and 1-pentene. The observed products are used to validate a RRKM/master equation (ME) chemical kinetics model of the pyrolysis. The presence of the branched methyl moiety has a significant impact on the observed reaction rates relative to analogous reaction rates in straight-chain radical systems. Systems that result in the formation of substituted radical or alkene products are found to be faster than reactions that form primary radical and alkene species. Pressure-dependent reaction rate constants from the RRKM/ME analysis are provided for all four H-transfer isomers at 500-1900 K and 0.1-1000 bar pressure for all of the decomposition and isomerization reactions in this system.
Foucault currents in cylindrical shells and ribbons

This article deals with the currents set up in thin-walled cylinders by two-dimensional field variation in the plane of the section, and is applied particularly to the problem of the distribution of alternating currents in strip conductors, a matter of some technical importance.
Cell populations and morphogenetic movements underlying formation of the avian primitive streak and organizer.

The cell populations and morphogenetic movements that contribute to the formation of the avian primitive streak and organizer-Hensen's node-are poorly understood. We labeled selected groups of cells with fluorescent dyes and then followed them over time during formation and progression of the primitive streak and formation of Hensen's node. We show that (1) the primitive streak arises from a localized population of epiblast cells spanning the caudal midline of Koller's sickle, with the mid-dorsal cells of the primitive streak arising from the midline of the epiblast overlying Koller's sickle and the deeper and more lateral primitive streak cells arising more laterally within the epiblast overlying the sickle, from an arch subtending about 30 degrees; (2) convergent extension movements of cells in the epiblast overlying Koller's sickle contribute to formation of the initial primitive streak; and (3) Hensen's node is derived from a mixture of cells originating both from the epiblast just rostral to the incipient (stage 2) primitive streak and later from the epiblast just rostral to the elongating (stage 3a/b) primitive streak, as well as from the rostral tip of the progressing streak itself. Collectively, these results provide new information on the formation of the avian primitive streak and organizer, increasing our understanding of these important events of early development of amniotes.
New Institutionalism and Minority Protection in the National Legislatures of Finland and Denmark

The individual camps within the new institutionalist paradigm generally argue that every political actor operates within a specific framework of opportunities and that the physical environment in which bargaining takes place is very important to understanding political outcomes. This article uses three of the new institutionalisms to answer two important questions concerning minority-protecting institutions in the national constitutions of Denmark (Article 42) and Finland (Section 66). First, why were such institutions developed? Second, why were these institutions ultimately removed in Finland, but not in Denmark? For both countries, it is argued in this article that historical and discursive institutionalism are useful for understanding why such protections were originally considered necessary by particular political groups in society: the rise of socialism during the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries compelled non-reformist parties to push strongly for constitutional change that would legalize powerful procedural tools that could delay and potentially reverse policy decisions passed in parliament. However, the article invokes rational choice institutionalism to explain why the outcomes in terms of the use of such institutions differed over time in the two countries: differences concerning the scope and timing of the relevant procedures compelled opposition parties to utilize them differently. As a result, the legislative process was often stalemated in Finland (and the procedures were subsequently removed in 1992), while in Denmark, the procedures contributed to a parliamentary culture based on consensus and pre-legislative bargaining and hence, still remain.
P‐144: Low Voltage, High Contrast Ratio, and Wide Viewing Angle TN LCD's for Microdisplay, Mobile Phone and PDA Mobile Video Applications

The modeled contrast ratio of a twisted nematic liquid crystal display (TN/LCD) was improved by over a factor of 2 to greater than 500:1 at applied voltages of 2 to 4 volts via the addition of a thin negative birefringence optical film with a retardation value up to 50nm and the optical axis parallel to the surface. Combining wide-viewing-angle compensation films with this thin negative birefringence optical film can lead to significantly improve viewing angle as well. This performance improvement is important for high performance microdisplay HMD's, mobile phone, PDA mobile video TV's, and 3D applications.
Hematocolpos secondary to imperforate hymen

A previously healthy 12-year-old female was sent to the Emergency Department by her pediatrician for workup of severe suprapubic abdominal pain radiating to her lower back. She reported having waxing and waning pain for 1 month that had awoken her from sleep the previous evening. The patient denied nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but reported mild urinary retention. Per history she was premenarchal. Her vital signs were heart rate (HR), 83; blood pressure, 129/85 mmHg; temperature, 36.1 oC. Physical exam revealed a healthy adolescent female with signs of both thelarche and adrenarche. Her abdomen was soft and non-tender, but notable for a palpable pubic mass. All blood and urine laboratory tests, including β-HCG, were normal. Ultrasound examination revealed a 13.7 × 8.0 × 8.8-cm complex fluid-filled structure extending inferiorly from the uterus, obscuring visualization of the cervicovaginal junction. A genitourinary exam revealed an imperforate hymen. A diagnosis of hematocolpos secondary to imperforate hymen was made and surgically confirmed. Imperforate hymen occurs in approximately 1 in 1,000 females [1], and found incidentally on physical exam (43%), it is treatable and does not cause significant morbidity [2]. If not screened for and treated early, patients present at menarche with a history of cyclical pelvic or abdominal pain and urinary retention due to hematocolpos. Physical exam findings may include a palpable abdominal mass and an intact bulging blue hymen [3, 4]. Potential complications of delayed diagnosis include retrograde menstruation and rarely ruptured hematosalpynx [5]. Diagnosis is supported by history, physical exam, and ultrasound findings, and should prompt immediate consultation with a gynecologist [3] (Figs. 1, ​,22 and ​and33). Fig. 1 Sagittal US view Fig. 2 Sagittal US view Fig. 3 Transverse US view
Utilization of Visual Stimulation during Sensory Deprivation

those who were able to complete their tour of S.D. (72 hr.), and those who demanded an early release. (The chamber was provided with a "panic button" by which S could signal for release.) A t test showed that Ss (Group I) who "panicked" utilized the viewer significantly more (P < .01) than did those (Group 11) who completed the confinement. Group I1 operated the viewer more during the second and third day of S.D. but scill accumulated less viewing time than did Group I which was confined only about half as long. REFERENCE
Preliminary Studies of the Effects of Dichromate Ion On Survival and Oxygen Consumption of Daphnia Pulex (L.)

[Les effets du polluant qu'est le dichromate de sodium (Na2Cr2O7) sur la survie et la consommation d'oxygene de Daphnia pulex ont ete etudies pour differents âges et avec des densites variables. Avec une densite d'1 Daphnia pour 1 ml, et avec des concentrations superieures a 0,10 mg/l, la mort survenait dans les 24 heures a chaque fois. Avec des concentrations de 0,01 mg/l et inferieures a ce taux, il n'y a pas de difference importante entre les taux de controle de mortalite et les animaux exposes au dichromate a raison de trois densites. Les taux de mortalite mesures pour les deux âges soumis aux tests (6 jours et 12 jours) ne presentent pas de difference appreciable. La mort tend a survenir plus tard avec des densites plus faibles de Daphnia. Ceci peut etre du a une consommation superieure d'oxygene chez chaque animal, quand les densites sont plus faibles; il y aurait ainsi une acclimatation plus rapide a de faibles concentrations de substances toxiques. Les consommations d'oxygene de D. pulex expose a un taux de 0,01 mg/l de dichromate etaient considerablement plus elevees que les valeurs de controle obtenues. Ces differences etaient dues en partie a la presence d'une progeniture dans les poches incubatrices des animaux exposes au dichromate. Cependant, le developpement plus rapide des jeunes chez les animaux exposes au dichromate etait en lui-meme probablement du a la consommation d'oxygene accrue provoquee par l'exposition au dichromate., Les effets du polluant qu'est le dichromate de sodium (Na2Cr2O7) sur la survie et la consommation d'oxygene de Daphnia pulex ont ete etudies pour differents âges et avec des densites variables. Avec une densite d'1 Daphnia pour 1 ml, et avec des concentrations superieures a 0,10 mg/l, la mort survenait dans les 24 heures a chaque fois. Avec des concentrations de 0,01 mg/l et inferieures a ce taux, il n'y a pas de difference importante entre les taux de controle de mortalite et les animaux exposes au dichromate a raison de trois densites. Les taux de mortalite mesures pour les deux âges soumis aux tests (6 jours et 12 jours) ne presentent pas de difference appreciable. La mort tend a survenir plus tard avec des densites plus faibles de Daphnia. Ceci peut etre du a une consommation superieure d'oxygene chez chaque animal, quand les densites sont plus faibles; il y aurait ainsi une acclimatation plus rapide a de faibles concentrations de substances toxiques. Les consommations d'oxygene de D. pulex expose a un taux de 0,01 mg/l de dichromate etaient considerablement plus elevees que les valeurs de controle obtenues. Ces differences etaient dues en partie a la presence d'une progeniture dans les poches incubatrices des animaux exposes au dichromate. Cependant, le developpement plus rapide des jeunes chez les animaux exposes au dichromate etait en lui-meme probablement du a la consommation d'oxygene accrue provoquee par l'exposition au dichromate.]
Inflammation-induced increase in nicotinic acetylcholine receptor current in cutaneous nociceptive DRG neurons from the adult rat.

Abstract The goals of the present study were to determine (1) the properties of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) currents in rat cutaneous dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons; (2) the impact of nAChR activation on the excitability of cutaneous DRG neurons; and (3) the impact of inflammation on the density and distribution of nAChR currents among cutaneous DRG neurons. Whole-cell patch-clamp techniques were used to study retrogradely labeled DRG neurons from naive and complete Freund’s adjuvant inflamed rats. Nicotine-evoked currents were detectable in ∼70% of the cutaneous DRG neurons, where only one of two current types, fast or slow currents based on rates of activation and inactivation, was present in each neuron. The biophysical and pharmacological properties of the fast current were consistent with nAChRs containing an α7 subunit while those of the slow current were consistent with nAChRs containing α3/β4 subunits. The majority of small diameter neurons with fast current were IB4− while the majority of small diameter neurons with slow current were IB4+. Preincubation with nicotine (1 μM) produced a transient (1 min) depolarization and increase in the excitability of neurons with fast current and a decrease in the amplitude of capsaicin-evoked current in neurons with slow current. Inflammation increased the current density of both slow and fast currents in small diameter neurons and increased the percentage of neurons with the fast current. With the relatively selective distribution of nAChR currents in putative nociceptive cutaneous DRG neurons, our results suggest that the role of these receptors in inflammatory hyperalgesia is likely to be complex and dependent on the concentration and timing of acetylcholine release in the periphery.
In Vivo Gene Transfer of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase to Carotid Arteries From Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits

Background and Purpose— Hypercholesterolemia is associated with endothelial dysfunction. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is upregulated in atherosclerotic vessels. However, its role in the regulation of vascular function is not completely understood. We examined the effect of adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of iNOS to the hypercholesterolemic rabbit carotid artery in vivo. Methods— Rabbits were fed a high-cholesterol or chow diet for 10 weeks. Two doses (1×108 and 1×109 plaque-forming units [pfu]/mL) of adenoviral vectors encoding iNOS (AdiNOS) or β-galactosidase (Adβgal) were luminally delivered to the carotid arteries from chow- and cholesterol-fed animals. Vascular reactivity and superoxide levels were assessed in Adβgal- and AdiNOS-transduced vessels from chow- and cholesterol-fed animals after 3 days. Results— Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was impaired in the carotid artery from cholesterol-fed animals. In AdiNOS-transduced arteries, transgene expression was demonstrated by positive i...
Evolutionary sequence comparisons using high-density oligonucleotide arrays.

We explored the utility of high-density oligonucleotide arrays (DMA chips) for obtaining sequence information from homologous genes in closely related species. Orthologues of the human BRCA1 exon 11, all approximately 3.4 kb in length and ranging from 98.2% to 83.5% nucleotide identity, were subjected to hybridization-based and conventional dideoxysequencing analysis. Retrospective guidelines for identifying high-fidelity hybridization-based sequence calls were formulated based upon dideoxysequencing results. Prospective application of these rules yielded base-calling with at least 98.8% accuracy over orthologous sequence tracts shown to have approximately 99% identity. For higher primate sequences with greater than 97% nucleotide identity, base-calling was made with at least 99.91 % accuracy covering a minimum of 97% of the sequence. Using a second-tier confirmatory hybridization chip strategy, shown in several cases to confirm the identity of predicted sequence changes, the complete sequence of the chimpanzee, gorilla and orangutan orthologues should be deducible solely through hybridization-based methodologies. Analysis of less highly conserved orthologues can still identify conserved nucleotide tracts of at least 15 nucleotides and can provide useful information for designing primers. DMA-chip based assays can be a valuable new technology for obtaining high-throughput cost-effective sequence information from related genomes.
Radioimmunoassay of a glycoprotein associated with malignancy

Abstract A glycoprotein associated with malignancy was purified from the 0.6 m perchloric acid-soluble fraction of serum obtained from cancer patients. The purified glycoprotein contained sialic acid, which was reponsible for binding to wheat-germ agglutinin-Sepharose. Gel electrophoresis showed one band with an apparent M r of 50 000–55 000, and the isoelectric point was 4.4±0.1. The glycoprotein could be distinguished from carcinoembryonic antigen and α-fetoprotein. Iodination of this material with chloramine-T permitted development of a radioimmunoassay.
Mapping the Local Galactic Halo. I. Optical Photometry of Cool Subdwarf Candidates

Optical (BVRI) photometric measurements of a sample of 564 candidate cool subdwarfs in the nearby halo are presented. The stars generally span the color range 0.4 < (B - V) < 1.8; hence, the sample is composed of early F- through early M-type stars on the subdwarf sequence. The sample is selected from the revised NLTT catalog of Gould and Salim and Salim and Gould via a reduced proper motion diagram. The photometry is precise and accurate; in particular, for stars with 9 < V < 13.5 the photometry is accurate to 0.013, 0.015, 0.012, and 0.013 mag in V, B - V, V - R, and V - I, respectively. For stars with 13.5 < V < 16 the photometry is accurate to 0.022, 0.018, 0.013, and 0.018 mag in the same bands.
Family Study and Nursing Research

The development of this paper was supported in part by a National Research Service Fellowship Award, US PHS No. NU-05805-01. The author would like to thank the following for their valuable feedback during the development of this manuscript: Marilyn Savedra, R.N., D.N.S.; Katharyn May, R.N., D.N.S.; Bonnie Holaday, R.N., D.N.S.; and Catherine Gillis, R.N., DNS.
Opportunity, Mobility and Satisfaction within an Industrial Organization

The relationship of mobility and satisfactions among an older generation of men in an industrial organization is examined. Mobility as measured by ranks-climbed has no consistent effect on job or promotion satisfactions. However, when both rank and initial organizational opportunity are used, a positive association is found. High-opportunity supervisors failing to reach upper management are least satisfied. This suggests that mobility per se is most salient for high-opportunity men. Data on the pacing of mobility support this hypothesis. "Early" promotions among high-opportunity men enhance job satisfaction-although not promotion satisfaction. Recent mobility encourages promotion satisfaction in the same group-but has little effect on job satisfaction. C omplex organizations must offer a variety of inducements to their members to elicit their willingness to participate in the organization and to cooperate in the pursuit of its goals. Should these inducements fail to be effective, then an erosion of motivation and a rise of alienation will follow. A decline in commitment to the organization, in turn, results in a decline in the performance of organizational roles. If these role behaviors fall below an adequate minimum, then the effective operation of the organization and, perhaps even its very survival, are in jeopardy.1 An important indicator of the level of commitment of the members to their organizational roles is the extent of their satisfaction with these roles. Therefore, the maintenance of member satisfaction is a problem with which all complex organizations must grapple to insure effective operation as well as survival. The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the mechanisms within an industrial organization which affect satisfaction among its members.2 Specifically, attention is focused on how the process of intra-organizational mobility affects organizational satisfactions.3 Why did we give * The study reported here is based on data from a larger series of investigations of social mobility and coronary heart disease by the Division of Human Ecology of the Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry of Cornell University Medical College. This paper is written with the support of USPHS Grant # HE-07796. I wish to acknowledge the cooperation of Dr. Lawrence E. Hinkle, Jr., director of the Division. I would like to thank Amitai Etzioni, Ethna Lehman and Jay Schulman for the comments on earlier versions of this manuscript, as well as Mrs. Ruth Graff for editorial and typing assistance. The data reported here are taken from Edward W. Lehman, "Mobility and Satisfaction in an Industrial Organization," unpublished Ph.D. dissertation, Columbia University,
Permanent-Magnet Generators

Based on the theory of permanent-magnet generators piresented in Part I,1 design equations are derived for the short-circuit stabilized generator, and it is shown that the design may be optimized to yield the smallest machine for given specifications. A relationship between short-circuit current and inherent voltage regulation is given. The influence of some design parameters is discussed and recommendations are made for trial values.
Soldier and Citizen in the Seventeenth-Century English East India Company

This article examines the role of fortifications, garrisons, and militia service in the English East India Company’s early settlements in Asia and the Atlantic. Affecting everything from the physical space of such a settlement to the status and rights of its inhabitants, the institutions and ideologies of a variety of forms of military service revealed the degree to which Company leadership had early on come to understand their settlements in Asia not as mere trading factories, but as colonial plantations, and their role as a government in Asia. Even if their lofty ambitions rarely met expectations, the Company sought within them to cultivate law, jurisdiction, and a robust civic life that could in turn ensure an active, obedient, and virtuous body of subjects and, in a sense, citizens. The attitudes toward and policies concerning soldiering also revealed the degree to which the Company’s seventeenth-century regime, so often treated as unique amongst English overseas ventures and Europeans in Asia, in fact drew and innovated upon models of governance across Europe, the Atlantic, and Asia.