cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Particle surface characteristics may play an important role in phytotoxicity of alumina nanoparticles

The phytotoxicity of alumina nanoparticles loaded with and without phenanthrene (Phen) was investigated by means of root elongation (RE) experiments in this study. Five plant species, Zea mays (corn), Cucumis sativus (cucumber), Glycine max (soybean), Brassica oleracea (cabbage), and Daucus carota (carrot) were used in our study of phytotoxicity by root elongation experiments. The surface characteristics of Phen-loaded and Phen-nonloaded nanoparticles were investigated using the Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy technique. It was found that when loaded with 10.0%, 100.0%, or 432.4% monomolecular layer (MML) of Phen, the degree of the root elongation inhibition caused by the particles was reduced. The loading of Phen leads to the appearance of a vibrational mode in the region of 850-1050 cm(-1), which was assigned to the surface characteristics of the particles and arises from the disappearance of free hydroxyl groups according to an earlier study. When mixed with a known free hydroxyl radical scavenger, DMSO (0.5% and 1.0%), the non-loaded particles also showed decreased inhibition of root elongations. We supposed that the surface characteristics of the particles play an important role in the phytotoxicity of alumina nanoparticles.
Upwelling and Coastal Jets in a Continuously Stratified Ocean

Abstract A simple, linear, two-dimensional, f-plane model of coastal upwelling in a continuously stratified ocean is investigated. The transient response of the fluid to an impulsively applied alongshore wind stress, the nature of the approach to a steady state, and the final steady state flow are studied. Particular attention is given here to an examination, in the continuously stratified case, of the interrelation of upwelling and the phenomenon of a baroclinic coastal jet. The coastal jet is a feature which has appeared in studies of the transient response of two-layer fluid models near a coast. The stratification parameter S = (δN/f)2, where δ = II/L is the aspect ratio, H the depth, L a characteristic horizontal scale, N the Brunt-Vaisala frequency, and f the Coriolis parameter, is assumed to lie in the range O(Ev½)<S≤O(1), where λ = Ev/EH and where EH and Ev are respectively the horizontal and vertical Ekman numbers. It is also assumed that L is large enough that S≪1 and λ≫1. These are the condition...
The selectionand administration of perioperative intravenous fluids for the pediatric patient

The perioperative administration of intravenous fluids and the maintenance of fluid homeostasis is essential in the comprehensive care of the pediatric patient. Intravascular fluid balance is influenced by a number of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative circumstances. The pediatric patient is not simply a small adult, and therefore cannot be treated as such with respect to intravenous fluid administration. The restoration and maintenance of the smaller pediatric intravascular volume is crucial to optimize cardiac output and ensure tissue oxygen delivery.
Moderate changes in energy balance combined with exercise do not alter insulin-like growth factor I or insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3

Abstract This study was designed to investigate the impact of negative (NEG) and positive (POS) energy balance (BAL) on serum concentrations of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-1 and relative amounts of serum IGFBP-3 during 5 days of physical activity. Eleven men (23.6 ± 0.7 years) were assigned to 1 of 3 trials in a random, crossover design. Trials consisted of varying energy intake (NEG, −2092; BAL, balanced; POS, +2092 kJ/d) but with equal proportions of carbohydrates (50%), protein (30%), and fat (20%). Each subject ran daily on a treadmill at 65% to 70% of Vo 2 max for approximately 30 minutes. Blood samples were obtained each morning for the measurement of serum concentrations of IGF-I, IGFBP-1, and relative amounts of serum IGFBP-3. Body weight changes were significantly different from zero during the NEG and POS trials but not for BAL (NEG, −0.5 ± 0.1 kg [ P = .03]; POS, 0.6 ± 0.2 kg [ P = .05]; BAL, 0.2 ± 0.2 kg). Baseline serum concentrations of IGF-I were not different among trials (NEG, 188.7 ± 8.8 ng/mL; BAL, 169.7 ± 8.8 ng/mL; POS, 175.7 ± 8.8 ng/mL) nor were they different after the diet intervention (NEG, 155.7 ± 10.0 ng/mL; BAL, 172.4 ± 8.8 ng/mL; POS, 165.4 ± 8.8 ng/mL). Relative amounts of serum IGFBP-3 at baseline were not different between treatments for the 52-kDa IGFBP-3 isoform (NEG, 0.94 ± 0.05; BAL, 0.88 ± 0.05; POS, 0.81 ± 0.05 ADU) or for the 47-kDa IGFBP-3 isoform (NEG, 0.94 ± 0.02; BAL, 0.83 ± 0.02; POS, 0.79 ± 0.02 ADU) and were not different after 5 days of exercise and diet. Alterations in energy BAL resulted in no difference in IGFBP-1 concentrations between trials IGFBP-1 (PRE—NEG, 20.3 ± 3.3 ng/mL; BAL, 23.3 ± 4.9 ng/mL; POS, 21.2 ± 2.9 ng/mL) (POST—NEG, 27.6 ± 4.8 ng/mL; BAL, 24.9 ± 3.8 ng/mL; POS, 19.72 ± 2.2 ng/mL). However, the change in IGFBP-1 was significantly different from zero during the NEG trial but not for the POS or BAL trials (NEG, 8.9 ± 3.2 ng/mL [ P = .03]; BAL, 0.97 ± 3.0 ng/mL; POS, −1.7 ± 3.8 ng/mL). An energy deficit or surplus of 2092 kJ in conjunction with daily aerobic exercise is not sufficient to impact serum concentrations of IGF-I or IGFBP-3, but a 2092-kJ deficit may alter serum concentrations of IGFBP-1 levels in healthy, college-aged men.
Delegation and control in organizations with varying degrees of decentralization

The concepts of decentralization, delegation, control, participation, and responsibility are defined operationally for the analysis of hierarchically structured large organizations or service systems. These include hospitals, libraries, or governmental agencies, all of which involve the coordination of several resources or activities. Costs and benefits are examined from a client centered point of view. We take into account cost-benefit considerations for the organization or service agency and for its clients, as well as for the larger community by which the agency may be sustained. Delegation of certain classes of decisions to a particular agent or echelon is translated into providing this agent with the means to make decisions at tolerable levels of error and delay. That is, the agent must have adequate communication channels, memory facilities and other information processing capacities. The change in the utility of the decision performance of the organization after the delegation has been made is compared to the change in costs caused by providing or shifting the requisite facilities. The effects of a long-term increase in service loads upon the optimum levels of decentralization and delegation are examined. Eight dimensions of decentralization are specified and four general principles are proposed.
A study of the 19F(6Li, d)23Na reaction at 36 MeV

Abstract The reaction 19 F( 6 Li, d) 236 Na has been studied at a 6 Li energy of 36 MeV and a finite range distorted wave analysis assuming a direct cluster transfer has been used to extract from the data α-particle spectroscopic strengths for levels populated below 5 MeV of excitation. The ground state strength is very weak relative to the corresponding 16 O( 6 Li, d) result and is in good agreement with the pure symmetry SU(3) prediction. However, relative a-particle spectroscopic strengths to excited states disagree with the SU(3) predictions probably because of very low absolute strengths.
Specific brain lesions producing nonspecific (generalized) learning impairments in weanling rats

Recent studies suggest that lesions to the globus pallidus, lateral thalamus, ventrolateral thalamus, parafascicular thalamus, substantia nigra, or midbrain central gray in adult rats are associated with a nonspecific (generalized) learning impairment. The present study showed that lesions to any one of the foregoing structures, except the ventrolateral and parafascicular thalamus, in 21-day-old rats likewise produce a generalized learning impairment, as evidenced by significant deficits on a white-black discrimination, a nonvisual 11-deg incline-plane discrimination, and a 3-cul maze. A possible brain-injured animal model of mental retardation is discussed.
Evolution of Devonian carbonate-shelf margin, Nevada

The north-trending, 550-km-long Nevada segment of the Devonian carbonate-shelf margin, which fringed western North America, evidences the complex interaction of paleotectonics, eustasy, biotic changes, and bolide impact–related influences. Margin reconstruction is complicated by mid-Paleozoic to Paleogene compressional tectonics and younger extensional and strike-slip faulting. Reports published during the past three decades identify 12 important events that influenced development of shelf-margin settings; in chronological order, these are: (1) Early Devonian inheritance of Silurian stable shelf margin, (2) formation of Early to early Middle Devonian shelf-margin basins, (3) progradation of later Middle Devonian shelf margin, (4) late Middle Devonian Taghanic onlap and continuing long-term Frasnian transgression, (5) initiation of latest Middle Devonian to early Frasnian proto-Antler orogenic forebulge, (6) mid-Frasnian Alamo Impact, (7) accelerated development of proto-Antler forebulge and backbulge Pilot basin, (8) global late Frasnian semichatovae sea-level rise, (9) end-Frasnian sea-level fluctuations and ensuing mass extinction, (10) long-term Famennian regression and continent-wide erosion, (11) late Famennian emergence of Antler orogenic highlands, and (12) end-Devonian eustatic sea-level fall. Although of considerable value for understanding facies relationships and geometries, existing standard carbonate platform-margin models developed for passive settings elsewhere do not adequately describe the diverse depositional and structural settings along the Nevada Devonian platform margin. Recent structural and geochemical studies suggest that the Early to Middle Devonian shelf-margin basins may have been fault bound and controlled by inherited Precambrian structure. Subsequently, the migrating latest Middle to Late Devonian Antler orogenic forebulge exerted a dominant control on shelf-margin position, morphology, and sedimentation.
Optical methods for the detection of nitric oxide

Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly reactive molecule that is synthesized by a variety of biological tissues. It plays a major role in the regulation of blood pressure, in nerve cell communication, in the destruction of pathogens, and it has been implicated in numerous other physiological process in ways yet to be elucidated. The need to understand how or when this molecule participates in a chemical pathway in vivo , has made it necessary to develop methods for its detection in biological matrices and fluids. In this lecture we review some of the optical methods that have gained acceptance in the biological community, the controversies that they have engendered, and some of the technical challenges that lie ahead for this area of research.© (2004) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Characterization of the expressed CIITA allele in the class II MHC transcriptional mutant RJ2.2.5

Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are regulated in a coordinate manner. A set of conserved upstream elements termed the W/Z/S, X1, X2, and Y boxes are found 5{prime} to class II genes, the R gene, and the HLA-DM genes. These conserved elements are required for tissue-specific and IFN{gamma}-mediated regulation of these genes. The DNA-binding proteins RFX, X2BP, and NFY have been found to specifically interact with the X1, X2, and Y box elements, respectively, as well as with each other. A role for an additional factor was recently demonstrated by the cloning of a gene that could complement the MHC class H gene-specific transcriptional deficiency in the mutant cell line RJ2.2.5 as well as cell lines isolated from patients exhibiting the bare lymphocyte syndrome. This gene was termed the class II transactivator or CIITA. While both genetic and biochemical studies have indicated interactions between the DNA-binding proteins described above, direct interactions with CIITA have not been described. 23 refs., 3 figs.
BIOSYNTHESIS OF COLLAGEN Biochemical and Physicochemical Characterization of Collagen-Synthesizing Polyribosomes

Synthesis of collagen on polyribosomes has been demonstrated in vitro in chick embryo corium by radioisotope incorporation, zone centrifugation through sucrose gradients, and analytical ultracentrifugation. Collagen synthesis was associated with polyribosomes ranging in size, as reflected by their sedimentation constants, from about 180S to approximately 1600S. Most of the newly formed collagen, hydroxyproline, was present on the largest polyribosome aggregates (∼ 350–1600S), but small polyribosomes (∼180–200S) also contained collagen. On the basis of the proline-14C/hydroxyproline-14C ratios and the disrupting effect of collagenase, the proposal is made that the 350–1600S polyribosomes from this tissue are involved predominantly in collagen synthesis. The large polyribosomes are disrupted extensively by collagenase but only partially by ribonuclease and trypsin. Therefore, it appears that they are stabilized by the interaction of newly forming collagen chains. Evidence is presented consistent with the hypothesis that these large polyribosomes are formed by the aggregation of small polyribosomes (180–200S) through the interaction of collagen polypeptides. It is suggested that these small polyribosomes might be involved in the synthesis of subunits of the collagen alpha chain.
Sexual patterns of protein metabolism in liver and plasma of hagfish, Eptatretus stouti with special reference to vitellogenesis

Abstract 1. 1. In the Pacific hagfish, Eptatretus stouti , the specific radioactivities of the total proteins in liver and plasma of vitellogenic females were considerably higher than in nonvitellogenic females or males after injection of [ 14 C]glycine. 2. 2. Much of the higher level of radioactivity in the plasma proteins of vitellogenic females was immunoprecipitable by use of rabbit anti-hagfish yolk serum. 3. 3. A yolk protein was identified by immunodiffusion, specifically limited in occurrence to the plasma of vitellogenic females, but absent from nonvitellogenic females or males. 4. 4. The concentrations of total plasma protein were comparable among the different treatment groups. 5. 5. This finding, together with the fact that vitellogenic females have considerably higher levels of radioactive newly-labeled protein in plasma compared to males or nonvitellogenic females, indicates that the circulating vitellogenic protein concentrations are small in amount relative to nonvitellogenic plasma proteins.
Fatigue Response of Fabric-reinforced Polymeric Composites

Mechanical fatigue response of fiber-reinforced polymeric (FRP) composites is essential to better understand the durability of composite materials systems and to develop design specifications. Curr...
Performance and energy-efficiency improvement through modified CPL in organic transistor integrated circuits

We study two logic families, complementary metal oxide semiconductor logic (CMOS) and complementary pass gate logic (CPL) in organic transistor technologies. In nanometer silicon technologies, CMOS logic family generally outperforms CPL in most of the simple gates. However, a significant strength imbalance between p- and n-channel transistors in currently-available organic technologies challenges the use of CMOS logic gates. Direct use of conventional CPL gates is also problematic due to the lack of good inverters for isolations. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a modified CPL logic family with optimized buffers, which can substantially improve both performance and energy efficiency for organic transistor integrated circuits. Benchmark simulations with 8b ripple carry adder also confirm that the modified CPL logic style improves performance and energy efficiency by ~3.2× and ~2.66×, compared to CMOS. We also investigate the impacts of prospective n-channel transistor improvements on the advantages of logic families.
Why Coca Leaf Should Be Available as a Recreational Drug

(1977). Why Coca Leaf Should Be Available as a Recreational Drug. Journal of Psychedelic Drugs: Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 75-78.
Synthesis of 11C-labeled chlorpromazine directly from [11C]carbon dioxide

Abstract Radiolabeled chlorpromazine was prepared by carboxylation of the N-trimethylsilyl derivative of norchlorpromazine with [11C]carbon dioxide, followed by in situ lithium aluminum hydride reduction. Radiochemical yields of 22–24% and radiochemical purities in the range of 93–98% were achieved.
A comparison of smectic phase induction in a series of isostructural two‐ring esters by tail fluorination and tail elongation

The effectiveness of smectic phase induction in a series of isostructural two‐ring nematic esters 1 by chain extension (2) or partial fluorination (3) of the pentyloxy group was investigated. Results show that the introduction of five fluorine atoms to 1 is more effective than the chain length doubling in suppressing nematic phases in favour of smectic phases in bicyclo[2.2.2]octane (1B), cyclohexane (1C) and benzene (1D) derivatives. Surprisingly, these structural transformations were ineffective in induction of smectic behaviour in the carborane ester 1A. Both chain modifications, i.e. tail fluorination and chain length doubling, increased the clearing point only for the benzene derivative 1D.
Two New Marine Amphipods From Massachusetts, U.S.a

Descriptions de deux nouveaux Amphipodes marins, Microprotopus raneyi et Lisitriella barnardi, captures au sud-est de l'etat de Massachusetts, Etats Unis de l'Amerique.
Long-term results of bone-retinaculum-bone autograft for scapholunate instability.

Purpose To report long-term follow-up of scapholunate interosseous ligament reconstruction with bone-retinaculum-bone autograft in patients with dynamic scapholunate instability. Methods Of the 14 patients from the previously reported cohort who had bone-retinaculum-bone autograft for dynamic instability, 6 returned for clinical examination and radiographs, 3 were reached by telephone, and 2 were lost to follow-up. The remaining 3 had salvage procedures (2 total wrist arthrodeses and 1 proximal row carpectomy) between the prior report and the current study and thus reached an endpoint, at 2 to 4 years. For the 6 who returned, outcome measurements included scapholunate angle and gap, radiographic evidence of secondary arthritis, wrist extension and flexion, grip strength, and Mayo wrist score. Results Follow-up averaged 11.9 years (range, 10.7–14.1 y). Clinical and radiographic outcomes deteriorated moderately from the prior report. Mayo wrist score averaged 83. There were 3 failures, resulting in 1 proximal row carpectomy and 2 total wrist arthrodeses. Findings at repeat surgery in the failed group included an intact graft without any apparent abnormalities, a partially ruptured graft (after a subsequent re-injury), and a completely resorbed graft. Conclusions Bone-retinaculum-bone autograft reconstruction is a viable treatment option for dynamic scapholunate instability in which the scaphoid and lunate can be reduced. Results may deteriorate but are similar to those reported previously from other techniques. Problems with graft strength or stiffness may necessitate further surgery. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
An Investigation of Numerical Modeling of Transient Heat Conduction in a One-Dimensional Functionally Graded Material

This article presents a closed form analytical solution for one-dimensional transient heat conduction in a material where the thermal conductivity varies linearly through the thickness but the thermal diffusivity is held constant. This solution is used to validate the results from finite-difference and finite-element approximations that account for this variation at the element level. This was motivated by a suggested limitation on the minimum time step used in the commercial finite-element software code ABAQUS for quadratic elements. Good agreement was found between the analytical and numerical approximations, indicating that conventional numerical techniques may be sufficiently robust to analyze heat conduction problems in functionally graded materials without the use of special elements. The minimum time step constraint was found to be unnecessary for a convective boundary condition for the one-dimensional elements and property variation used in this study.
Duodenal duplication cyst and recurrent pancreatitis in the setting of duodenal atresia

We report a case of recurrent pancreatitis caused by a duodenal duplication cyst with aberrant pancreatic ductal communication in a \(2{\raise0.5ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 1$}\kern-0.1em/\kern-0.15em\lower0.25ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 2$}}\)-year-old female who had been previously treated for duodenal atresia. The evaluation of the pancreas included a computed tomography scan, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, intraoperative ultrasound, and intraoperative cholangiogram. In the setting of duodenal atresia, this case underscores the complex embryology of pancreatic, duodenal, and biliary development. Any infant with recurrent pancreatitis should have a complete evaluation in order to identify a potentially correctable lesion. The surgical options remain defined by the anatomy and include resection, marsupialization, or internal drainage.
The Effect of Spanwise Width on Rectangular Jets With Sidewalls

A CFD study on the effect of spanwise width on a rectangular jet with sidewalls is conducted using a standard k-ɛ model with wall functions. An order of magnitude analysis reveals the role played by spanwise turbulent shear terms, arising from the wall bounded flow, as the aspect ratio is decreased at high streamwise distances. A comparative study involving experimental data and other turbulence models is also presented to validate the k-ɛ model for this confined jet flow. It is found that the effect of bounding walls is negligible up to a streamwise distance of at least 105 jet diameters for an aspect ratio of 40, however this distance, within which the flow can be approximated as two-dimensional, decreases with decrease in aspect ratio.
Patient-centered surgical outcomes: the impact of goal achievement and urge incontinence on patient satisfaction one year after surgery.

Objective The purpose of this study was to assess factors that influence patient satisfaction 1 year after pelvic reconstructive surgery. Study design We previously reported the objective success, goals, and expectations of a cohort of 78 patients 3 months after surgery. A second blinded independent physician investigator contacted the same patients by phone to reassess these items 1 year after surgery. Data were analyzed with the Spearman correlation, the Mann-Whitney test, the chi-squared test of association, and the Friedman test. Results Seventy patients (89%) of the original cohort completed the second assessment. Although group satisfaction and goal achievement were stable ( P P = .006). Fifty-six percent of patients reported urge incontinence symptoms after surgery (44% de novo and 12% persistent). Urge incontinence was the most common reason for patient dissatisfaction after surgery ( P = .04). Conclusion Symptoms of urge incontinence and reduced achievement of subjective surgical goals are associated with decreased long-term patient satisfaction after reconstructive pelvic surgery.
Formation of Physically Stable Amorphous Drugs by Milling with Neusilin

Each of four drugs (ketoprofen, indomethacin, naproxen, and progesterone) was milled with Neusilin (amorphous magnesium aluminosilicate) to effect conversion from crystalline to amorphous states, and the physical stability of the resultant drugs was investigated. Ball milling the drugs alone for 48 h resulted in no amorphization. X-ray powder diffractometry (XPD), birefringence, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data indicated amorphization of all the four drugs on ball milling with Neusilin. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) data showed a reduction in the absorbance of the free and the hydrogen-bonded acid carbonyl peaks accompanied by a corresponding increase in the absorbance of the carboxylate peak, indicating an acid-base reaction between the carboxylic acid-containing drugs and Neusilin on milling. On storage of milled powders (at 40 degrees C and 75% RH for 4 weeks), XPD, birefringence, and DSC data showed the absence of reversion to the crystalline state, and FTIR data revealed continued absence of the carbonyl peaks. Whereas the carboxylic acid-containing drugs convert from their crystalline acid form to amorphous salt form on milling with Neusilin, progesterone seems to interact with Neusilin via hydrogen bonding. The amorphous Neusilin-bound states of all four drugs were physically stable during storage. The water of adsorption seems to mediate the conversion of the crystalline state to an amorphous Neusilin-bound state.
Medical Imaging Systems Using Bio-Inspired Fluidic Lenses

We discuss fluidic lens imaging systems for minimally invasive and image-guided cancer surgery. The system offers many unique capabilities such as optical zoom, macro and microscopic functions, high sensitivity, hyper spectral imaging, etc.
Interspecific hierarchy at an artifical food source

Abstract An interspecific hierarchy of eight species of southern California birds and mammals was observed at a seed bait station. Species ranking was basically determined by size, but between certain species the status of an individual interspecifically was also correlated with its ability to supplant, or be supplanted, intraspecifically. Interspecific dominance hierarchies can be quite complex as reactions among individuals may depend on both intra- and interspecific factors. Assessment of species' nichebreadth may be complicated by differential responses of conspecifics with individuals of other species.
Conformational Coupling of the Nucleotide-Binding and the Transmembrane Domains in ABC Transporters

Basic architecture of ABC transporters includes two transmembrane domains (TMDs) and two nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs). Although the transport process takes place in the TMDs, which provide the substrate translocation pathway across the cell membrane and control its accessibility between the two sides of the membrane, the energy required for the process is provided by conformational changes induced in the NBDs by binding and hydrolysis of ATP. Nucleotide-dependent conformational changes in the NBDs, therefore, need to be coupled to structural changes in the TMDs. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we have investigated the structural elements involved in the conformational coupling between the NBDs and the TMDs in the Escherichia coli maltose transporter, an ABC importer for which an intact structure is available both in inward-facing and outward-facing conformations. The prevailing model of coupling is primarily based on a single structural motif, known as the coupling helices, as the main structural element for the NBD-TMD coupling. Surprisingly, we find that in the absence of the NBDs the coupling helices can be conformationally decoupled from the rest of the TMDs, despite their covalent connection. That is, the structural integrity of the coupling helices and their tight coupling to the core of the TMDs rely on the contacts provided by the NBDs. Based on the conformational and dynamical analysis of the simulation trajectories, we propose that the core coupling elements in the maltose transporter involve contributions from several structural motifs located at the NBD-TMD interface, namely, the EAA loops from the TMDs, and the Q-loop and the ENI motifs from the NBDs. These three structural motifs in small ABC importers show a high degree of correlation in motion and mediate the necessary conformational coupling between the core of TMDs and the helical subdomains of NBDs. A comprehensive analysis of the structurally known ABC transporters shows a high degree of conservation of the identified 3-motif coupling elements only in the subfamily of small ABC importers, suggesting a distinct mode of NBD-TMD coupling from the other two major ABC transporter folds, namely large ABC importers and ABC exporters.
Effects of protein kinase C inhibitors on ethanol-induced contractions in isolated rat aorta.

Abstract The activation of intracellular contractile proteins induces vascular contraction mediated through signal transduction mechanisms. Protein kinase C (PKC) is involved in this signal transduction. The purpose of the present study was designed to investigate the role of PKC on EtOH-, KCl- and phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu)-induced contractions in isolated rat aorta through the use of several different PKC inhibitors. Prior exposure to staurosporine inhibited both EtOH- and KCl-induced contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. The EtOH-induced contractions were completely inhibited by staurosporine (5 × 10−6 M) but complete inhibition of KCl-induced contractions was not observed. Staurosporine (10−7 M) also significantly inhibited the contractile response to single doses of both EtOH and PDBu. Bisindolylmaleimide (10−6 M) effectively inhibited contractile responses to both EtOH- and KCl, added cumulatively, and single doses of PDBu. Chelerythrine (10−7 M) inhibited maximal EtOH-induced contractions. These results suggest that PKC activation plays an important role in the mechanism(s) involved in the contractile activation of rat aorta smooth muscle by EtOH, KCl and PDBu. However, further work is required to elucidate the precise molecular mechanism.
Rewriting Techniques in the Constraint Solver

The constraint solver is a symbolic cryptographic protocol security analysis tool that is based on a unique term rewriting approach. Several of the design characteristics of this tool, and the reasons for them, are discussed and placed in perspective with other approaches. The constraint solver uses a free message algebra and a bounded-process network model with a Dolev-Yao attacker. These choices yield simplicity and decidability.
Noninvasive Blood Perfusion Measurement on the Liver of an Anesthetized Rat

Blood perfusion is the local, non-directional blood flow through living tissue. It is measured as the volumetric flow rate of blood per volume of tissue and a large range of perfusion values have been reported for human tissue (i.e. 0.002–0.5 ml/ml/s). This large range is thought to be due to measurement sensitivity, environmental factors, and tissue type and location.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Cerebral Ischemia in Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Mixed Cryoglobulinemia

We describe two women (ages 35 and 36 years) with cerebral ischemia, hepatitis C virus, and mixed cryoglobulinemia. One patient (case 1) was in otherwise good health when left parietal cerebral infarction developed, and she was found to have narrowing of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery siphon, anterior cerebral artery A1, and middle cerebral artery Ml segments bilaterally. Subsequent evaluation revealed abnormal liver enzymes, mixed cryoglobulinemia (type III), hypocomplementemia, and a high positive test result for rheumatoid factor. In the other patient (case 2), cerebral ischemia and seizures developed in the setting of previously documented mixed cryoglobulinemia (type II), membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and hypocomplementemia. In this patient, a brain biopsy demonstrated cerebral infarction. Hepatitis C virus infection was confirmed in both patients by polymerase chain reaction detection of hepatitis C virus RNA. These two cases document the occurrence of cerebral ischemia in patients with hepatitis C virus infection and mixed cryoglobulinemia. Testing for hepatitis C virus and cryoglobulins should be considered in selected patients with cerebral ischemia of inobvious cause.
On the topological entropy of transitive maps of the interval

The topological entropy of a continuous map of the interval is the supremum of the topological entropies of the piecewise linear maps associated to its finite invariant sets. We show that for transitive maps, this supremum is attained at some finite invariant set if and only if the map is piecewise monotone and the set contains the endpoints of the interval and the turning points of the map.
Suspended solids analysis using ERTS-A data

Abstract The magnetic digital tapes of the imagery obtained by ERTS-A on September 23, 1972, have been analyzed for selected areas of the Potomac River. A statistical analysis of all four bands has been carried out. The results show that band III is useful in determining the water-to-land interface. Data on bands II suggest the existence of three distinct types of water—those having low, medium, and high reflecti vity. From previously published results and ground truth measurements the areas of hight reflectivity were identified as containg high concentrations of suspended solids. Areas of low reflectivity were identified as having relatively lower concentrations of suspended solids. A commonly used computer technique with some additional refinements has been used to generate thematic maps which identify the above areas and show their geographical distribution.
Maternal feeding practices associated with food neophobia.

The current study examined the associations between children’s and mother’s food neophobia and parental feeding practices. Eighty-five mothers of 3- to 12-year old children (M = 5.7 years; 52% girls) completed a questionnaire online about food neophobia and feeding practices. Mothers with children high in food neophobia used more restriction for health and less monitoring. Mothers with food neophobic children and mothers who were themselves food neophobic also reported that they do not make healthy foods readily available for their children. Mothers high in food neophobia also used more restriction for weight. This study is a starting point for understanding the link between neophobia and feeding practices, but future longitudinal work is needed in order to determine direction of effects. However, interventions could be created to help parents understand the importance of feeding practices for promoting children’s food acceptance.
Results of a new test of local Lorentz invariance: A search for mass anisotropy in Ne 21

We have performed a test of Lorentz invariance by searching for a time-dependent quadrupole splitting of Zeeman levels in $^{21}\mathrm{Ne}$. A component of the splitting at a twice the Earth's sidereal frequency (${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{\mathrm{S}}$) would suggest a preferred direction which affects the local physics of the $^{21}\mathrm{Ne}$ nucleus. The technique employs polarized $^{21}\mathrm{Ne}$ and $^{3}\mathrm{He}$ gases produced by spin exchange with laser optically pumped Rb. Both species are contained in the same glass cell, the $^{3}\mathrm{He}$ providing magnetometry and a monitor of systematic effects. Data from two runs produce an upper limit at the 1\ensuremath{\sigma} confidence level of 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}21}$ eV (0.45\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}6}$ Hz) on the Lorentz-invariance violating contribution to the binding energy. This result is comparable to that of the most precise previous experiment.
Involvement of hypothalamic compounds in the expression of estrus in the pig

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to investigate the involvement of hypothalamic compounds in the expression of estrus in ovariectomized gilts treated with estradiol benzoate. In the first experiment, three gilts that were actively immunized against gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and three unimmunized control gilts were given 1 mg estradiol benzoate (EB). Serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were nondetectable in GnRH-immunized gilts, but control gilts showed normal negative and then positive feedback responses. Concentrations of serum estradiol levels, number of gilts showing estrus, interval from EB to beginning of estrus and duration of estrus were not different between the two groups. In the second experiment, seven ovariectomized gilts immunized against GnRH and seven ovariectomized control gilts were given each of the following six treatments: 2.5 μg EB/kg body weight (BW); 1.25 μg EB/kg BW; 2.5 μg EB/kg BW and 1 mg morphine/kg BW at 36 and 48 h and 0.8 mg morphine/kg BW at 60 h after EB; 1.25 μg EB/kg BW and 1 mg naloxone/kg BW at 48 and 52 h after EB; 1.25 μg EB/kg BW and 50 μg GnRH agonist at 48 h after EB; and 2.5 μg EB/kg BW. Treatments were given at 4-week intervals and estrus was checked twice daily after each treatment. In addition, estrus was checked every 2 h from 47 to 60 h after EB when gilts were given naloxone or GnRH agonist. The proportion of gilts exhibiting estrus was not influenced by treatment. The duration of estrus was significantly shorter in gilts given morphine. The results indicate that the elimination of GnRH and gonadotropins from peripheral circulation did not alter estrous expression. Administration of a potent GnRH agonist did not potentiate estrus in estrogen-primed gilts. Naloxone, an antagonist of the endogenous opioid peptides (EOPs), did not cause estrus in estrogen-primed gilts, but morphine, an agonist of the EOPs, shortened the duration of estrus.
Short-term response of woody plants to fire in a Rio Grande riparian forest, Central New Mexico, USA.

Abstract Both fire frequency and severity have increased in riparian vegetation in the southwestern United States in recent years, but the role of fire in these ecosystems is still not well understood. I monitored short-term responses of riparian vegetation to a wildfire at two established study sites. Fire severity reflected the amount of organic debris present before the fire, which reflected flooding history at the two sites: severity was lower at the site with a more extensive flooding history. Only native cottonwoods Populus deltoides located in an area that had been regularly flooded retained viable above-ground tissue 2 years after the fire, but 40–80% of trees at both sites produced shoot sprouts. No other woody species retained viable above-ground tissue. Seventy-three percent of willows Salix gooddingii were sprouting four months after the fire, but only about 55% of exotic saltcedars Tamarix ramosissima were sprouting. Sprouting of native shrubs was higher at the site with the lower fire severity. Reducing current fuel load, either by restoring flooding or by mechanical removal, is needed to lessen the impact of fires on riparian forests along the Rio Grande.
A hybrid vortex-in-cell finite-difference method for shear layer computation

A hybrid numerical scheme is presented to compute turbulent shear flows. The equations of motion are assumed to be the vorticity and continuity equations and are to be solved in a given domain. The scheme divides the domain into two regions and uses a Lagrangian method in one region and an Eulerian method in the other. The two regions interact through the boundary separating them and the influence of the vorticity field in one region on the other region is accounted for by solving for the stream function in the entire domain. This scheme has been tested by simulating the interactions of two vortices in a square box. The solution obtained with this new method agrees with the solutions obtained using an Eulerian method, a vortex-in-cell method, and a grid-free vortex method. A two-dimensional mixing layer is simulated using this new method. Vortex formation and pairing are observed. The growth of the momentum thickness is found to be linear with the downstream distance. Self-similarity of the mean velocity and turbulence intensities profiles is observed. Comparison of these profiles with experimental data shows good agreement.
Optimal number of beds and occupancy to minimize staffing costs in an obstetrical unit

Purpose: We describe how the science of analyzing patient arrival and discharge data can be used to determine the optimal number of staffed OB beds to minimize labour costs.
Experiencias de pesca con red de enmalle en las islas Robinson Crusoe y Santa Clara, Chile

The gillnet fishing survey was conducted around Robison Crusoe and Santa Clara islands (Juan Fernandez archipelago, Chile) in January-February 1997. A total ...
Laying a foundation for the criminological examination of Right-wing, Left-wing, and Al Qaeda-inspired extremism in the United States

Despite several overlaps between crime and terrorism, criminological examinations of terrorism to date have been limited. To fill this gap in the research, we examine several individual and contextual socio-demographic characteristics of a diverse sample of extremists operating in the United States who have committed violent crimes. In addition, we provide a comparative analysis to explain and understand differences between extremists who have committed violent crimes while active in either far-Right, far-Left (including environmental and animal rights extremists), or Al Qaeda and affiliated movements. To assess the impact of external factors on the nature of domestic extremist violence, we also comparatively examine these three types of domestic extremists before and after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. We find several similarities across domestic extremists but many important suspect- and county-level differences as well. We end the paper with suggestions for future research that could extend...
Stochastic global optimization methods. part 11: multi level methods

In Part II of our paper, two stochastic methods for global optimization are described that, with probability 1, find all relevant local minima of the objective function with the smallest possible number of local searches. The computational performance of these methods is examined both analytically and empirically.
Experiences with scanning laser vibrometry in automotive industries

For nearly ten years Volkswagen has been applying scanning laser vibrometry for analyzing vibrations and structure-born noise of auto parts, like engines, auxiliaries, gearboxes, and the whole body as well. Compared with holographic interferometry the scanning vibrometry offers the great advantage of measuring operation mode shapes. Operating modes or 'real motions' are unharmonic motions, consisting of more than one frequency component. By applying an FFT- algorithm it is possible to analyze the frequency spectrum of the vibrating structure. This measurement of multiple mode shapes is obtained by only one scanning process, a very time saving procedure. In this paper we present (1) applications of this technique in automotive development, (2) a detailed description of the measurement procedure, (3) a discussion of advantages and disadvantages, and a (4) comparison of specific features of commercially available vibrometers and our own prototype, called SOVAS.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The facile addition of fluorosulfuric acid to an epoxide

Abstract Fluorosulfuric acid, a very poor nucleophile, was found to add to several epoxides, yielding 1,3,2-dioxathiolane 2,2-dioxides. These cyclic sulfates could also be obtained by reacting the epoxides with sulfur trioxide. The intermediacy of the fluorosulfate of a 1,2-diol, which readily cyclized in base, has been demonstrated in one case.
NONINVASIVE ASSESSMENT OF CEREBRAL COLLATERAL BLOOD SUPPLY THROUGH THE OPHTHALMIC ARTERY

We assessed the potential of 2-MHz pulsed-wave transorbital Doppler ultrasonography to delineate the role of the ophthalmic artery as a source of collateral cerebral blood supply by comparing oculopneumoplethysmography, transorbital Doppler ultrasonography, periorbital continuous-wave Doppler ultrasonography, and transcranial Doppler ultrasonography in 25 patients with unilateral internal carotid artery occlusion and five controls with 10 normal internal carotid arteries. Systolic ophthalmic artery blood velocity was reduced ipsilateral to an internal carotid artery occlusion (38.2 +/- 10.2 cm/sec) compared with the contralateral and control velocities (46.0 +/- 10.3 and 47.5 +/- 6.8 cm/sec, respectively; p less than 0.05). Ophthalmic systolic pressure measured by oculopneumoplethysmography was 94.7 +/- 13.2 mm Hg ipsilateral to an internal carotid artery occlusion compared with 108.4 +/- 15.3 mm Hg on the contralateral side (p less than 0.01). Transorbital and periorbital Doppler ultrasonography detected reversed ophthalmic artery blood flow ipsilateral to an internal carotid artery occlusion in 44.0% and 40.0% of the patients, respectively. Systolic middle cerebral artery blood velocity was 55.2 +/- 22.3 cm/sec ipsilateral to an internal carotid artery occlusion compared with 79.4 +/- 23.5 cm/sec on the contralateral side (p less than 0.05) and 101.2 +/- 18.9 cm/sec in the controls (p less than 0.05). Reversed ophthalmic artery blood flow was associated with a low middle cerebral artery blood velocity and lack of major intracerebral collaterals. Transorbital Doppler ultrasonography permits noninvasive evaluation of the ophthalmic artery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Risk factors for secondary substance use disorders in people with childhood and adolescent-onset bipolar disorder: Opportunities for prevention

Abstract Background Compared to other mental illnesses, bipolar disorder is associated with a disproportionately high rate of substance use disorders (SUDs), and the co-occurrence is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of primary bipolar disorder may provide opportunities for SUD prevention, but little is known about the risk factors for secondary SUD among individuals with bipolar disorder. The purposes of this study were to describe the population of people with childhood and adolescent-onset primary bipolar disorder, and to identify risk factors for secondary SUD in this population. Methods Using data collected from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication study, we identified 158 individuals with childhood-onset ( Results Compared to adolescent-onset, people with childhood-onset bipolar disorder had increased likelihoods of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (adjusted odds ratio = 2.81) and suicide attempt (aOR = 3.61). Males were more likely than females to develop SUD, and did so at a faster rate. Hazard ratios of risk factors for SUD were: lifetime oppositional defiant disorder (2.048), any lifetime anxiety disorder (3.077), adolescent-onset bipolar disorder (1.653), and suicide attempt (15.424). SUD was not predicted by bipolar disorder type, family history of bipolar disorder, hospitalization for a mood episode, ADHD or conduct disorder. Conclusions As clinicians struggle to help individuals with bipolar disorder, this study provides information that might be useful in identifying individuals at higher risk for SUD. Future research can examine whether targeting these risk factors may help prevent secondary SUD.
Phase relations in the system: Sodium stearate-cetane

Abstract The system sodium stearate-cetane has been investigated with a polarizing microscope in a specially designed hot stage, and a partial phase, diagram constructed from these data. The change from synerectic to non-synerectic systems, together with the accompanying change in rheological properties, has been shown to be related to the existence of a unique phase transition. An attempt is made to correlate these effects with the internal structure of the phases.