cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prenatal chlordane exposure: effects on plasma corticosterone concentrations over the lifespan of mice

Developmental exposure to nonteratogenic doses of the organochlorine pesticide Chlordane has been reported to alter endocrine function of apparently normal offspring evaluated at 101 days of age (J. S. Cranmer, D. L. Avery, R. R. Grady, and J. S. Kitay, 1978, J. Environ. Pathol. Toxicol. 2, 357–369). The long-term study reported here was conducted in cohort groups of identically treated mice to determine if prenatal exposure to Chlordane had a persistent effect on endocrine function over the lifespan of the exposed offspring as determined by alterations in plasma concentrations of corticosterone at 400 and 800 days of age. Dihybrid female mice were exposed throughout gestation to 0.16 or 8.00 mg/kg/day Chlordane and endocrine function of offspring was evaluated at three timepoints in their lifespan. Adrenal production and liver reduction capacity for corticosterone (the primary glucocorticoid in rodents) and plasma concentration of corticosterone were measured at 101 days. In this and three previous studies, changes in plasma levels of corticosterone proved to be a reliable indicator of changes in adrenal and/or liver function, thus, only plasma concentrations of corticosterone were determined at 400 and 800 days of age. Plasma corticosterone concentrations of male mice prenatally exposed to the lower Chlordane dose were significantly (P < 0.01) elevated when measured at 101 days of age. This abnormal elevation (P < 0.05) was recorded in both dose groups when male mice were examined at 400 days of age. At 800 days of age, no differences from control were found for male offspring in the lower dose group; insufficient numbers of offspring in the higher dose group survived to be evaluated. An effect of Chlordane on corticosterone metabolism in female offspring was observed only in the 0.16 mg/kg dose group at 400 days of age when plasma concentrations of corticosterone were significantly (P < 0.05) increased. Results suggest that prenatal exposure to nonteratogenic doses of Chlordane (1) had a significant effect on endocrine function (corticosterone control), (2) affected males more than females, and (3) produced changes (increased plasma corticosterone levels) which were detectable at adulthood and persisted into middle age. The mechanisms responsible for these persistent changes in corticosterone metabolism remain to be elucidated.
Run-time monitoring of system performance: A goal-oriented and system architecture simulation approach

The performance of a software system has been a major concern of the information technology services industry since its inception in the early 1960's. Up to now, simulation has been a key technique for gaining an understanding of the performance characteristics of the system during development time, while software tools, possibly together with manual operations, have been used to monitor some performance characteristics of the system during run-time. Simulation models, by and large, have not been tied closely (not easily traceable) to the requirements; neither have they been tied to the run-time monitoring. In the past, simulation models were constructed and used in design and simply ignored during run-time. In this paper, we propose a goal-oriented framework (implemented as a softgoal interdependency graph to record goals, development alternatives, design rational and linkage to functional requirements) and a system architecture simulation approach to realize and monitor the run-time performance characteristics of the system. This approach treats performance requirements as softgoals: a system architecture is constructed that meets the softgoals, a simulation model is constructed and experiments analyzed to consider varying workloads, resource consumptions, and run-time capacities. A good-enough system architecture is then used to implement the system and help monitor if the run-time behavior of the system indeed matches the performance requirements. Alternative actions, to solve performance miss-matches, can be evaluated using the simulation model. The approach is illustrated using a previously underperforming government tax-payer system.
Comparison of class I‐ and II‐restricted T cell recognition of the identical peptide

There is structural and functional evidence that both class I- and II-restricted T cells recognize short processed peptides bound to MHC molecules. Although the structural conformation of bound peptides remains unknown, no evidence of distinct structural motifs of class I- or class II-restricted peptides has been described. Conversely, two algorithims proprosed to predict T cell epitopes, and based on primary amino acid sequence or tertiary structure, are both compatible with many observed class I- and class II-restricted peptides. We previously identified eight class I-restricted peptides which were also recognized by class II-restricted T cells. Based on functional and direct binding studies, additional examples of peptides with both class I and II restrictions have been identified. In this study, we have directly compared the fine specificity of T cell recognition of a single epitope in a single mouse strain in the context of both class I- and class II-restricted responses. Based on a panel of analogue peptides with amino acid substitutions and peptides of various lengths, we observed several striking similarities in the recognition patterns of both class I- and class II- restricted T cells. In addition, some characteristics of recognition were different in the two systems indicating that the recognition processes were similar but not identical.
The Sense Organs Employed By Cockroaches in Mating Behavior

In Nauphoeta cinerea, Leucophaea maderae, and Byrsotria fumigata, female sexual behavior (mounting and "feeding" on the male's terga) is released by a male sex pheromone. The antennae serve as distance receptors for the male odor. The female's ability to detect and respond to the male rapidly can be correlated with distribution of thin-walled chemoreceptive sensilla on certain segments of the antennae. The mounting and feeding response of N. cinerea females to extracts of males was similarly correlated with the distribution of antennal chemoreceptive sensilla. In females of N. cinerea and L. maderae sensilla on the terminal segments of the maxillary and labial palps are capable of detecting the male in the absence of antennae. In B. fumigata females the antennae alone appear capable of detecting the male. Pycnoscelus surinamensis is unique in that headless females can mate. This is explained by the fact that the females do not feed on the male's terga prior to copulation. After ablation of various sense organs, the behavior of males of N. cinerea, L. maderae, and B. fumigata, differs from that of the females in that it is impossible to eliminate mating. The antennae bear the receptors which provide information promoting a rapid response to females. However, the maxillary and labial palps, and the cerci (except in B. fumigata) also play a role; the importance of these organs is shown only by combined removal with the antennae. The difficulty in eliminating mating in males of N. cinerea and L. maderae may be partly due to the fact that release of male courtship is not dependent upon stimuli from the female; these males may be induced to court by contact with other males. However, this is rare in B. fumigata and other sense organs (e.g., on the mouthparts other than the palps) may possibly be stimulated by the female sex pheromone. In P. surinamensis, the olfactory response to female sex pheromone is clearly correlated with distribution of chemoreceptive sensilla on the male's antennae. However, after bilateral antennectomy. the maxillary palps are capable of detecting the female on contact.
CDSEM focus/dose monitor for product applications

Advanced 193 nm lithographic processes will require defocus control for product wafers in order to meet CD and profile requirements in the future. Dose control is already required. The interaction of product wafer materials with lithography requires additional controls beyond tool monitoring. While scatterometry has demonstrated excellent ability to extract effective defocus and dose information from monitor wafers, the addition of product film stacks introduces several issues for this technique. The additional complexity of model generation and the sensitivity to under-layer thickness and optical property variation are among these. A CDSEM technique for lithography focus monitoring overcomes these issues provided it has sufficient precision and relative accuracy. In this paper, we report on comparative studies of two CDSEM techniques. One technique uses angled e-beam to better view the sidewall for edge width measurement. The angle of the beam from normal incidence is considerably larger than previously explored thereby enabling sensitive measurements on shallower structures. The other technique introduces new target designs particularly suited to CDSEM measurement that have enhanced sensitivity to focus and dose. Implementation of these techniques requires expanded sampling during the course of a single measurement in order to suppress roughness. The small target size of these structures enables applications with targets in product kerf and embedded within the circuit. In summary, these methods enable the measurement of dose and focus variations on product wafers.
An enzymic method for the measurement of inorganic phosphate.

Abstract An enzymic method is described for measuring inorganic phosphate. The successive enzyme steps are those catalyzed by glycogen phosphorylase, phosphoglucomutase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. TPNH is finally produced from TPN + in proportion to the inorganic phosphate present, and is measured by its fluorescence or light absorption. The method has two advantages: ( 1 ) The analytical reaction takes place at neutrality thereby permitting measurement of inorganic phosphate in the presence of very unstable organic phosphates. ( 2 ) The method is very sensitive. In terms of concentration the sensitivity is limited mainly by the degree to which phosphate can be removed from the reagents. In terms of amount, there is no real sensitivity limit since the TPNH formed can be measured by enzymic cycling.
Alar Rim Reconstruction Utilizing a Perinasal Transposition Flap Overlying a Hinged “Turn-Down” Flap

Construction of the alar rim is an extremely challenging problem. Utilizing supradefect nasal tissue as a hinged "turn-down" flap combined with perinasal tissue mobilized as an inferiorly-based transposition flap allowed the formation of a thin and properly contoured rim configuration.
Tl-201 stress tests and homeland security

Background This study estimates the length of time a patient might trigger security radiation detection devices after thallium 201 cardiac imaging. The US Department of Homeland Security is supporting the purchase and deployment of radiation detection pagers and portal monitors. Concurrently, there are an increasing number of cardiac perfusion imaging studies being performed using Tl-201. Therefore there is a higher probability that patients who have undergone nuclear medicine procedures could trigger alarms resulting in security questions. Methods and Results The length of time patients could trigger such devices is estimated based on the radiopharmacokinetics of Tl-201 and potential radioactive contaminants as well as the capabilities of current sensitive radiation detection devices, assuming the radioactive sources are distributed in and attenuated by the patient. It is estimated that patients may trigger portable pager devices for up to 33 days and may trigger portal detectors for up to 51 days after studies using Tl-201. This is much longer than length of time for a patient to trigger such alarms after technetium 99m myocardial imaging tests, which is potentially up to 6 days. Conclusions It should be standard practice for patients to be issued information cards that indicate the potential time for triggering security radiation detectors after diagnostic cardiac procedures involving the use of Tl-201 or other radiopharmaceuticals.
Accidental Exposures to Known Food Allergens: Lessons from Pediatric Emergency Departments and Urgent Care Centers

U E S D A Y 813 Are There Symptoms and Signs Related to a Positive Oral Cow's Milk Challenge in Brazilian Suspected Children? Ana Carolina Rozalem, MD, Renata R. Cocco, Lucila Camargo, MD, Marcia Mallozi, MD, Dirceu Sole, MD, PhD, FAAAAI; Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Federal University of S~ao Paulo, UNIFESP, S~ao Paulo, Brazil, Federal University of S~ao Paulo, S~ao Paulo, Brazil. RATIONALE: Cow’sMilk (CM) is the main cause of food allergy (FA) in children. The aim of this study was searching for main symptoms that could predict a positive CM food challenge (CMFC). METHODS: 154 Children with suspected CM allergy (CMA) were undergone to 175 CMFC and comprised 2 groups according to the result: negative test (NG, n5132) and positive test (PG, n540). Both groups were analyzed regarding to age at first reaction, gender, nutritional status, breastfeeding, familial history of FA, symptoms reported, presence of atopic diseases and results of skin prick test (SPT). PG was analyzed according to required amount of CM to react, symptoms and severity of reaction. RESULTS: Comparing groups, PG was significantly associated with patient’s reports of urticaria (77.5%x42.4%, OR54.7, 95%IC:2.1-10,6; p50.0001), pruritus (47.5%x7.6%, OR511,1, 95%IC:4.5-27; p<0.0001), vomiting (57.5%x31.1%, OR53.0, 95%IC:1.4-6.2, p50.04) and to have had at least 3 systems affected (47.5%x25%, OR52.7, 95%IC:1,3-5,6; p50,01). Age at 1 reaction was significantly lower on PG (average 3.8x9.5months; p50.03). Just 8% of all children were underweight. The median amount of CM to have a positive CMFC was 15mL, boys significantly reacted with less than 15mL (14x5, OR53.7, 95%IC:0.99-14.2; p50,06) and children who had referred to have diarrhea presented symptoms with more than 16mL (5x10, OR50.2, 95%IC:0,05-0,77; p0,02). During CMFC, half of FG patients presented with urticaria and 15%, anaphylaxis. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high number of suspected children, just 1/3 really confirmed the diagnosis. Although there are some suggestive symptoms for CMA, they’re not specific enough to dismiss CMFC.
Representations of atomic virtual orbitals for use in semi-empirical molecular orbital calculations

Abstract In semi-empirical molecular orbital calculations it is frequently desirable to include in the basis set of atomic obitals low energy virtual atomic orbitals. Criteria for representing the spectroscopically observed virtual orbitals by single Slater-type orbitals (STO) are discussed. Representations for atoms through polonium (excluding the lanthanide series) are proposed.
Order estimates for irreducible projections in L2 of a nilmanifold

Let π be an irreducible representation occurring in L2(Г⧹N), where N is a nilpotent Lie group and Γ is a discrete, cocompact subgroup. The projection onto the π-equivariant subspace is given by convolution against a distribution Dπ. For certain π, we obtain an estimate on the order of Dπ. The condition on π involves an extension of the “canonical objects” associated to elements of the Kirillov orbit of π; there does not appear to be an example in the literature where it is not satisfied.
RAPID CLONING OF ANY REARRANGED MOUSE IMMUNOGLOBULIN VARIABLE GENES

Immunoglobulins (Ig) have been the focus of extensive study for several decades and have become an important research area for immunologists and molecular biologists. The use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology has accelerated the cloning, sequencing, and characterization of genes of the immune system. However, cloning and sequencing the Ig variable (V) genes using the PCR technology has been a challenging task, primarily due to the very diverse nature of Ig V region genes. We have developed a simple, rapid, and reproducible PCR-based technique to clone any rearranged mouse Ig heavy or light chain genes. A close examination of all Ig heavy and light chain V gene families has resulted in the design of 5' and 3' universal primers from regions that are highly conserved across all heavy or light chain V gene families, and the joining or constant regions, respectively. We present our strategy for designing universal primers for Ig V gene families. These primers were able to rapidly amplify the rearranged Ig V genes, belonging to diverse Ig V gene families from very different cell lines, i.e., J558, MOPC-21, 36-60, and a chicken ovalbumin specific B-cell hybridoma. In addition, the present study provides the complete alignment of nucleotide sequences of all heavy and light chain variable gene families. This powerful method of cloning Ig V genes, therefore, allows rapid and precise analysis of B-cell hybridomas, B-cell repertoire, and B-cell ontogeny.
Density, transitivity, and diffuse status in task-oriented groups

Small-group researchers recently have been concerned with how diffuse status characteristics such as race and gender combine with verbal and nonverbal cues to structure relations in task groups. In this paper we investigate the structure of precedence relations in such groups, including whether these relations are dense, whether they are transitive, and whether they are structured in any obvious way by diffuse status characteristics. Using transcript data on six-person mixed-gender discussion groups, we found relational density in about 55 percent of the dyads, transitivity in about 75 percent of the completed triads, and no clear pattern by gender. Each of these findings is contrary to assumptions contained in a formal participation model by Fisek, Berger, and Norman for which these authors reported strong empirical support. To investigate this apparent contradiction, we designed and carried out Monte Carlo simulations, creating simulated data with a known underlying structure, and applying Fisek et al.'s research methodology to our simulated evidence. Although the simulated data, by design, systematically violate Fisek et al.'s density and diffuse status assumptions, their model actually fits these data better than it fits the empirical Smith-Lovin data. We discuss both theoretical and methodological implications of our empirical and Monte Carlo results.
SU-E-T-696: Registry Based Framework for Plan Quality Improvement: A Head-And-Neck Radiotherapy Application Improving Simultaneous Integrated Boost Treatments

Purpose: To systemically evaluate the dosimetric plan quality and consistency for multiple IMRT delivery techniques to further improve guidelines for head‐and‐neck (H&N) irradiation. Method: One hundred consecutive H&N patients from our patient registry were selected and analyzed retrospectively. Simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) IMRT treatment were generated with the same prescription dose of 69.3/62.7/56.1Gy on TomoTherapy(Tomo, Accuray), TrueBeam(TB, Varian) using fixed‐field IMRT(TB_IMRT) or RAPIDARC(TB_RAPIDARC) or Siemens Oncor (Siemens_IMRT, Siemens). The contouring was performed by the same physicians delineating targets and normal structures. The standard in house dose‐volume objectives were used as planning guideline for all cases for all techniques. A Matlab based dose‐volume extraction and analysis tool was developed to export dose‐volume endpoints for each patient. A more specific guideline was proposed for future planning purpose. Results: While all techniques yielded comparable target coverage, the doses to the critical structures differed. In average, the percent volumes receiving greater than 26Gy (V26 and standard deviation) for the total parotid were 37.8±0.1, 46.1±0.2, 44.3±0.2 and 41.8±12.9%, the V65 for mandible were 4.7±5.6, 6.3±11.1, 3.0±5.3 and 8.0±7.3 % with the mean mandible doses of 42.5±6.1, 41.4±8.2, 37.4±10.7 and 46.6±8.7 Gy for Tomo, TB_IMRT, TB_RAPIDARC and Siemens_IMRT plans respectively. ANOVA analyses showed significant difference for the maximum dose of cord but no significant difference was found for other selected structures among four IMRT techniques. Based on current dataset, the projected constraints (at 95% confidence level) for future H&N IMRT plans for cord maximum doses were established at 34.0±2.9, 42.7±2.5, 43.3±2.3, and 45.4±2.4Gy for the evaluated techniques, respectively. The refined dosimetric constraints may improve plan quality and consistency. Conclusion: Patient registry based processes enable easy access of systematic dosimetric monitoring of the plan quality and consistency. The self‐evolving real‐time dosimetric evaluation and ensuing guidelines will help to continuously improve plan quality, resulting in better clinical outcome.
Planar waveguide LED illuminator with controlled directionality and divergence

We present a versatile illumination system where white light emitting diodes are coupled through a planar waveguide to periodically patterned extraction features at the focal plane of a two dimensional lenslet array. Adjusting the position of the lenslet array allows control over both the directionality and divergence of the emitted beam. We describe an analytic design process, and show optimal designs can achieve high luminous emittance (1.3x10⁴ lux) over a 2x2 foot aperture with over 75% optical efficiency while simultaneously allowing beam steering over ± 60° and divergence control from ± 5° to fully hemispherical output. Finally, we present experimental results of a prototype system which validate the design model.
Compositional Heterogeneity in Parenteral Lipid Emulsions after Sedimentation Field Flow Fractionation

This study examines the size and compositional heterogeneity of particles in a commercial lipid emulsion (Intralipid) before and after equilibration with penclomedine, a highly lipophilic cytotoxic agent. Emulsions were fractionated by sedimentation field-flow fractionation (sedFFF), and particle sizes of the monodisperse fractions were determined by photon correlation spectroscopy. The triglyceride (TG), phosphatidylcholine (PC), and penclomedine (in drug loaded emulsions) contents in each fraction were determined by HPLC. The aqueous-entrapped volume within Intralipid was determined to be ≈ 10% by size-exclusion chromatography using [3H]mannitol. Thirteen sedFFF fractions collected from the drug free emulsions yielded particles ranging in size from 154 to 423 nm. Total channel recoveries were 89% and 95% for TG and PC, respectively. Apparent particle densities varied significantly with size, suggesting heterogeneity in composition as confirmed by PC/TG mass ratios which varied dramatically. Computer fits of the distribution profiles suggested populations of phospholipid vesicles and oil droplets containing excess phospholipid in addition to classical emulsion droplets. Drug loading induced a significant shift of the predominant triglyceride containing population to a larger particle size. The penclomedine distribution profile closely mimicked that of the TG rather than the PC fraction. These studies suggest the need to consider not only size distribution but also compositional distribution in characterizing parenteral emulsions.
Deletion of an enhancer near DLX5 and DLX6 in a family with hearing loss, craniofacial defects, and an inv(7)(q21.3q35)

Precisely regulated temporal and spatial patterns of gene expression are essential for proper human development. Cis-acting regulatory elements, some located at large distances from their corresponding genes, play a critical role in transcriptional control of key developmental genes and disruption of these regulatory elements can lead to disease. We report a three generation family with five affected members, all of whom have hearing loss, craniofacial defects, and a paracentric inversion of the long arm of chromosome 7, inv(7)(q21.3q35). High resolution mapping of the inversion showed that the 7q21.3 breakpoint is located 65 and 80 kb centromeric of DLX6 and DLX5, respectively. Further analysis revealed a 5,115 bp deletion at the 7q21.3 breakpoint. While the breakpoint does not disrupt either DLX5 or DLX6, the syndrome present in the family is similar to that observed in Dlx5 knockout mice and includes a subset of the features observed in individuals with DLX5 and DLX6 deletions, implicating dysregulation of DLX5 and DLX6 in the family’s phenotype. Bioinformatic analysis indicates that the 5,115 bp deletion at the 7q21.3 breakpoint could contain regulatory elements necessary for DLX5 and DLX6 expression. Using a transgenic mouse reporter assay, we show that the deleted sequence can drive expression in the inner ear and developing bones of E12.5 embryos. Consequently, the observed familial syndrome is likely caused by dysregulation of DLX5 and/or DLX6 in specific tissues due to deletion of an enhancer and possibly separation from other regulatory elements by the chromosomal inversion.
Understanding, Deriving, and Computing Buffer Capacity

The concept of buffer capacity appears in varied disciplines, including bio-, geo-, analytical, and environmental chemistry, physiology, medicine, dentistry, and agriculture. Unfortunately, however, derivation and systematic calculation of buffer capacity is a topic that seems to be neglected in the undergraduate analytical chemistry curriculum. In this work, we give an account of the development of the buffer capacity concept and derive the buffer capacity contribution equations for buffer systems containing mono-, di-, and triprotic weak acids (and their conjugate bases) and aluminum(III), which undergoes hydrolysis. A brief review of pH is provided because pH is involved in applying buffer capacity to the real world. In addition, we discuss evaluation of the equations, numerical approximation of buffer capacity when an analytic solution is not derived, and the mathematical properties of the buffer capacity expressions.
Did the Housing Price Bubble Clobber Local Labor Market Job and Worker Flows When It Burst

We use the Census Bureau's Quarterly Workforce Indicators and the Federal Housing Finance Agency's House Price Indices to study the effects of the housing price bubble on local labor markets. We show that the 35 MSAs in the top decile of the house price boom were most severely impacted. Their stable job employment fell much more than the national average. Their real wage rates did not fall as fast as the national average. Accessions fell much faster than average while separations were constant. Job creations fell substantially while destructions rose slightly.
Dynamic evaluation of CMAQ part II: Evaluation of relative response factor metrics for ozone attainment demonstrations

Abstract The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides guidelines on the use of air quality models for projecting whether an emission reduction strategy will lead to future pollutant levels that are at or below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The EPA's guidance document for ozone attainment demonstrations recommends an attainment test for the 8-h ozone NAAQS based on using the ratio of output from “future” and “base” model simulations through the calculation of location-specific Relative Response Factors (RRF). The 2007 guidance document as well as other related studies have recommended the use of retrospective evaluation studies in order to evaluate the ability of an air quality model to represent a change in air quality (dynamic evaluation) rather than relying solely on operational evaluation of model predictions under base line conditions. Here simulations from the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) modeling system were conducted for 2002 and 2005, a time period characterized by significant emissions reductions associated with the EPA's Nitrogen Oxides State Implementation Plan Call (NOx SIP Call) as well as mobile sources. These simulations were used to evaluate the performance of different forms of the RRF metric for projecting 2002 to 2005 against 2005 observed ozone levels. The evaluation study showed that the current form of the RRF calculation is generally well designed for predicting the future 8-hr ozone “design value” metric used for determining attainment. Specifically, the methodology of using air quality model simulations in a relative sense provided better estimates of future ozone design values than using the modeled future year simulation alone. Alternative forms of the RRF metric were found to be very similar to the current methodology in terms of evaluation metrics. However, alternative RRF metrics were sensitive to the number of days used in the calculation of the RRF. Approaches which used more days in the RRF calculation (relative to the 2007 guidance approach) had slightly higher bias and error in predicting 2005 design values compared to approaches using only a subset of high ozone days.
Comparison of Two Methods of Estimation of the Effective Moisture Diffusivity from Drying Data

The effective moisture diffusivity (D) in starch materials was estimated by the method of slopes of the drying curve and a computer simulation technique. Drying data (moisture vs time) were obtained on slabs and spherical samples of hydrated and gelatinized starches in an air-dryer operated at 60-100 degrees C and air velocity 2 m/sec. The two methods gave similar results in high-amylopectin starch gels of low porosity, where liquid diffusion might predominate during drying. Considerable differences between the two methods were found in hydrated granular starches and in porous high-amylose gels, where vapor diffusion might be the main water transport mechanism.
Counseling Implications of Genetic Research: A Dialogue With Thomas Bouchard

Thomas Bouchard is a leading researcher of identical twins reared apart. In this interview he describes the major themes in the Minnesota twin research. Although the genetic influence is central, he also pleads for the impact of environmental factors in optimal human development. Included in the interview are the surprises he has experienced, his current focus, and his plans for the future research.
Regulation of Activated Lipolysis by Albumin, Glucose, and H+.

SummaryIsolated fat cells were incubated in two Krebs-Ringer media containing normal and low phosphate buffer concentrations with 1 g/100 ml albumin. When lipolysis was activated with 10-5 M NE, a marked acidosis (final pH = 6.6) occurred in the medium of low buffer capacity and the lipolytic activity was significantly inhibited as compared to lipolysis in the medium with normal buffer capacity. This inhibition was partially reversed when theophylline 10-2 M was added. When fat cells were incubated in these two media, but with glucose present or an albumin concentration of 5 g/100 ml, lipolysis proceeded at a similar rate independently of the buffer capacity of the medium.
FINITE GEOMETRIES AND IDEAL BOSE GASES.

It is shown that the lack of condensation in partially finite geometries is not dependent on the use of periodic boundary conditions or the symmetry-breaking technique for a class of independent-particle Bose-gas models. Condensation in an ideal Bose gas in a finite geometry is studied for one-, two-, and three-dimensional systems. Explicit expressions for the chemical potential in terms of the number of particles, the temperature, and the dimensions of the system are obtained by using a contour-integration technique to express sums as integrals plus corrections. Even though there is no true condensation, the range of the reduced density matrix for an ideal Bose gas in a thick slab (${L}_{1}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{L}_{2}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{L}_{3}$ with ${L}_{1}$, ${L}_{2}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$ and $\ensuremath{\infty}g{L}_{3}\ensuremath{\gg}{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{T}=\mathrm{the}\mathrm{thermal}\mathrm{wavelength}$) is found to go from order $\frac{{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{T}{T}_{\mathrm{cB}}}{(T\ensuremath{-}{T}_{\mathrm{cB}})}$ to order ${L}_{3}\mathrm{exp}{\frac{1}{2}\sqrt{\ensuremath{\pi}}{\ensuremath{\zeta}}_{\frac{3}{2}}(\frac{{L}_{3}}{{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{T}})[{(\frac{{T}_{\mathrm{cB}}}{T})}^{\frac{3}{2}}\ensuremath{-}1]}$ as the temperature is lowered through the bulk critical temperature ${T}_{\mathrm{cB}}\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}({\ensuremath{\zeta}}_{\ensuremath{\chi}} \mathrm{is}\mathrm{the}\mathrm{Riemann} \ensuremath{\zeta} \mathrm{function}.)$ The range exhibits a spatial asymmetry. The onset of this extremely long-range order is found to be reflected in PVT diagrams and the specific heat in a manner very similar to that in bulk condensation. It is conjectured that in calculations for infinite systems the existence of a long- but finite-range order may be a more relevant criterion for superfluidity and superconductivity than the usual criterion of an infinitely long-range order.
Presynaptic dopamine D2 and muscarine M3 receptors inhibit excitatory and inhibitory transmission to rat subthalamic neurones in vitro

Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were made from subthalamic nucleus (STN) neurones in brain slices from rats. Stimulation with bipolar electrodes evoked synaptic currents mediated by glutamate (EPSCs) and GABAA (IPSCs) receptors. Dopamine reversibly reduced the amplitude of GABAA IPSCs by up to 48 % with an IC50 value of 3.4 +/- 0.8 microM. The dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole, but not the D1 receptor agonist SKF 82958, also inhibited GABAA IPSCs. This effect was completely reversed by the D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride but not by SCH 23390, a D1 antagonist. Muscarine reversibly reduced the amplitude of GABAA IPSCs by up to 70 % with an IC50 value of 0.6 +/- 0.1 microM. Inhibition of IPSCs by muscarine was completely blocked by scopolamine (10 microM), a muscarinic receptor antagonist. The M3 muscarinic receptor antagonist 4-DAMP effectively reversed muscarine-induced inhibition of IPSCs with an IC50 of 0.11 +/- 0.03 microM. Although the M1 receptor antagonist pirenzepine also reversed the inhibition of IPSCs by muscarine, this effect was only observed at relatively high concentrations (IC50 = 21.7 +/- 9.4 microM). Dopamine and muscarine both increased the paired-pulse ratio of GABAA IPSCs. Neither agent produced sustained changes in postsynaptic holding current. Glutamate EPSCs were also inhibited reversibly by dopamine (by up to 29%; IC50 = 16 +/- 3 microM) and muscarine (by up to 41%; IC50 = 1.0 +/- 0.4 microM). However, both agents were more potent and efficacious for reducing GABA IPSCs compared with glutamate EPSCs. These results suggest that the most significant effect of dopamine and muscarine in the STN is to reduce inhibitory synaptic input by acting at presynaptic dopamine D2 and muscarinic M3 receptors, respectively.
A Note on the Growth of Primary Particles in Agglomerate Structures by Coalescence

Aerosol particles at high concentrations grow by collisions and coalescence. If coalescence is faster, particles remain individual and spherical, and primary particle growth is determined by the collision rate. When collisions are faster, dendritic agglomerates consisting of a large number of primary particles form. Primary particle growth is then determined by the coalescence rate. In this Note a model is given for predicting primary particle growth based on the linear decay law for the surface area of a coalescing structure. In the collision-limited primary particle growth regime, the linear decay law is applied to the coalescing pairs of particles. In the coalescence-limited regime large agglomerates are present, and the linear decay law is applied to subregions of the agglomerates.
Gauss' method of measuring the horizontal component of the Earth's Magnetic Field, A discussion of fundamentals in the light of the actions of the International Electrotechnical Commission

This paper makes use of a discussion of Gauss' method of measuring the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field as a means for presenting those ideas concerning the natures of magnetic quantities which have been promulgated by the International Eleetrotechnical Commission. Reference is also made to the actions taken or initiated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (hereafter abbreviated IEC) relative to the fundamentals of measurements of mechanic, electric, and magnetic quantities.
How teacher and students study ‘all that matters’ in high school chemistry

This study focuses on the relationships between meanings of science constructed in classrooms and sociocultural precepts of the wider society. Research presented is part of a larger study of the negotiation of knowledge and roles in high school science classrooms. The data presented document that what goes on in classrooms reflects and recreates societal attitudes towards work, in general, and teachers’ work, in particular. The teacher in this study reduces his demands for academic work in return for students’ cooperation and as a means of coping with negative aspects of teaching. Students, in turn, are not concerned about the specific subject matter of chemistry. What matters to them are the academic credentials that lead to success in the college and employment arenas. As a result, teacher and students construct school chemistry to be what you‐get‐through‐as‐you‐get‐along. The interdependence of the roles and actions of teachers and students suggests changes in policy and practice.
Modification of the Zonal Elution Method for Detection of Transient Protein–Protein Interactions Involving Ligand Exchange

A new affinity chromatography method was developed by modifying a zonal elution method. The new method targets transient protein-protein interactions, such as those encountered during direct ligand transfer between the ligand transporter and its cognate receptor. A ligand-loaded transport protein is immobilized on the solid support, and a plug containing a putative receptor is flowed through the column. Elution profiles of proteins not interacting with the immobilized transporter can be approximated with a simple Gaussian curve, while the elution profiles of cognate receptors show significant delay and exhibit complex shape. Ligand transfer from the immobilized transporter molecules to the receptors is verified by both UV absorbance measurements and mass spectrometry. The sensitivity of the method is demonstrated using retinoic acid (RA) transfer from various isoforms of cellular RA binding proteins (CRABPs) and RA receptor γ (RARγ). Although these interactions have been hypothesized long ago to proceed via direct mechanism (i.e., via transient docking of the receptor and the transporter), the existing biophysical techniques failed to detect the presence of the transporter-receptor complexes. However, the modified zonal elution method provides unequivocal evidence of direct interaction between RARγ and one of the CRABP isoforms (CRABP II) during the ligand transfer to the receptor.
Structure and thermal expansion in solid deuterium

Neutron-diffraction measurements are reported on a strain-free polycrystalline deuterium sample with a J=1 concentration x=0.46 between 0.20 and 14.0 K. The lattice remains simple hcp down to the lowest temperature studied. No new reflections or changes in diffuse scattering are observed as the sample is cooled. The molar volume has been determined from the lattice constants. Our results are consistent with measurements of ${C}_{v}$ and (\ensuremath{\partial}P/\ensuremath{\partial}T${)}_{V}$. Our diffraction data showed no evidence for a transition to a glassy phase as suggested by the NMR experiments.
Observation of multimode vibronic interference effects in 2E1g benzene

This paper presents the first experimental demonstration of multimode vibronic interference effects arising from the interaction of topologically inequivalent vibrational modes with a two‐level electronic degeneracy. The system is that of the E1g molecular ion core of benzene Rydberg states. The interacting modes are the Jahn–Teller active e2g, ring bend, ν6, and the Renner, out‐of‐plane e2u ring bend, ν16. The nature of the interaction is seen as a coupling of the angular momenta of the two modes individually to the electronic angular momentum, producing new quantization conditions, within which interference interactions can be approximated perturbatively. Such a treatment explains qualitatively all splitting patterns observed in experimental spectra. Small quantitative deviations point the way to higher order couplings.
Production of gastric ulcers in dogs on protein depletion regime.

SummaryDogs maintained in the anemic state by phlebotomy with intravenous injection of amounts of iron equivalent to that removed in hemoglobin and concomitantly fed a low protein diet, are quite rapidly depleted of their protein reserves and the circulating plasma proteins are markedly altered. Weight loss is invariably considerable. In these animals the incidence of peptic ulcer is extremely high with a large percentage developing perforating ulcers causing death.
Etoposide therapy for testicular cancer

During the past two decades, dramatic strides have been made in the treatment of metastatic testicular cancer. In the early 1970s, cisplatin, vinblastine, and bleomycin (PVB) produced durable complete remissions (CR) in approximately 70% of treated patients. In the early 1980s, etoposide emerged as the only drug with single-agent activity in cisplatin-refractory patients. Based on preclinical data demonstrating synergy of cisplatin plus etoposide, the two-drug combination proved to be a useful salvage therapy, curing approximately 25% of such patients. Further evaluation of etoposide as part of initial therapy by the Southeastern Cancer Study Group (SECSG) compared PVB with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) in previously untreated patients with metastatic germ cell tumors. Not only did BEP have significantly less toxicity, it proved to be superior to PBV in patients with advanced disease. Varying the dose and schedule of etoposide also may provide patients with potentially useful avenues of treatment. High-dose etoposide plus carboplatin in drug-refractory patients has produced durable CR in a cohort of treated patients; it is currently being evaluated as part of initial salvage therapy. The schedule dependency of etoposide in small cell lung cancer led us to evaluate daily oral administration of etoposide in patients refractory to previous etoposide therapy; objective response rates of approximately 15% to 25% were observed. In summary, etoposide remains an integral part of the treatment regimen for testis cancer. However, the incorporation of innovative dose and schedule combinations for etoposide may further improve its therapeutic index for this disease.
Psychometric properties of the State and Trait Food Cravings Questionnaires among overweight and obese persons.

Abstract A crucial problem in studies involving food cravings is the lack of a psychometrically sound measure for use among overweight and obese populations. The degree to which the Food Cravings Questionnaires-Trait (FCQ-T) and State (FCQ-S) evidenced acceptable psychometric properties among overweight and obese participants was assessed. In study 1, 109 participants completed the FCQ-T and FCQ-S. Item-total correlations, test–retest reliability, internal consistency, and factor structures were examined. Results indicate good internal consistency and partially support the factor structures. In study 2, the construct and predictive validity of the FCQ-S were examined. Twenty-eight women completed the FCQ-S 15 min after finishing a standardized breakfast and then twice more, 90 min apart. Subsequent ad libitum food intake was recorded. Results suggest that the FCQ-S is sensitive to state changes in food cravings, but that the magnitude of the changes was moderate. The FCQ-S was not a good predictor of subsequent food intake. The FCQ-T and FCQ-S may be useful in studies that examine triggers of and interventions for excessive food intake.
DEMONSTRATION OF 16α-HYDROXYLASE IN THE HUMAN OVARY*†

The presence of 16α-hydroxylase in the human ovary was demonstrated by conversion of 4-C14-progesterone to 6α-hydroxyprogesterone in incubations with tissue minces. Increased 16-hydroxylase activity was found in tissues abundant in follicular and thecal elements. There is suggestive evidence that Stein-Leventhal ovarian tissue contains more enzymatic activity than does normal ovarian tissue.
Optimal Hankel-norm approximation approach to model reduction of large-scale Markov chains

A model reduction problem of certain large-scale Markov chains under an optimal criterion for Hankel-norm approximation is discussed. The multi-dimensional Markov chain under investigation is assumed to have a finite-dimensional stationary state-transition matrix, which is first reformulated as a multi-input/multi-output (MIMO) linear time-invariant (LT1) stochastic system. Consequently, the resulting large-scale MIMO LTI stochastic system has a closed-form best approximant in the Hankel-norm from a specified class of stable lower-dimensional MIMO LTI systems.
Basement membrane of central nervous system capillaries lacks ruthenium red-staining sites

We used the cationic dye ruthenium red to examine the distribution of anionic macro-molecules (presumably proteoglycans) in the basement membranes of the fenestrated capillaries and epithelium of the choroid plexus, and of the continuous capillaries forming the blood-brain barrier. Both the endothelial and epithelial basement membranes of choroid plexus displayed discrete, 10- to 20-nm-diameter, electron-dense sites after exposure to ruthenium red. These sites were similar in size, appearance, and distribution to those found in the vascular and epithelial basement membranes of a variety of tissues outside the central nervous system. In contrast, the basement membranes of continuous, blood-brain barrier capillaries did not display electron-dense sites following exposure to ruthenium red, even after measures had been taken to enhance penetration of the dye across the endothelial cells. The lack of discrete ruthenium red staining in the basement membrane of continuous blood-brain barrier capillaries could be due to a relative paucity of anionic macromolecules, or may be the result of the compact architecture of this particular basement membrane. Regardless of the final explanation, these findings suggest that the basement membrane of the blood-brain barrier, like its endothelium, is structurally (and perhaps functionally) unique.
The use of dynamic positron emission tomography imaging for evaluating the carcinogenic progression of intestinal metaplasia to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Background: In this study, we investigate the use of PET scanning in the carcinogenic progression of reflux esophagitis to Barrett's esophagus to high grade dysplasia to esophageal adenocarcinoma, and correlate the uptake levels of 18F-FDG related to histological changes, and the rates of proliferation and apoptosis. Methods: An established esophagoduodenal anastomsis rat model in conjunction with micro-PET scanning at 1 week, 1 month, 3 month, and 6 month after procedure was performed. Results: Increased uptake levels of 18F-FDG were observed in the esophagi after EDA procedure. The higher level of 18F-FDG uptake within esophageal epithelium was identified in intestinal metaplastic transformation and esophagoduodenal adenocarcinoma by histological examination. Conclusions: Dynamic PET scanning represents a powerful tool in analyzing morphological carcinogenic transformation non-invasively in the esophagus. 18F- FDG accumulation was a sensitive marker in reflux esophageal injury carcinogenic progression f...