cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hepatic Glutathione Homeostasis in the Rat: Efflux Accounts for Glutathione Turnover

Hepatic glutathione turnover and the efflux of glutathione from the liver into bile and blood were measured in male Sprague-Dawley rats in vivo. In fed rats the efflux of glutathione into blood, calculated from the hepatic arteriovenous concentration gradient and hepatic blood flow, amounted to 12.4 +/- 1.4 nmoles min X gm liver. Together with the excretion of glutathione into bile (3.4 +/- 0.4 nmoles per min X gm liver) total efflux accounted for the hepatic turnover of glutathione of 15.2 +/- 0.9 nmoles per min X gm liver. Fasting animals for 48 hr markedly increased hepatic glutathione turnover to 26.4 +/- 1.2 nmoles per min X gm liver. Increased efflux into blood rather than increased intrahepatic catabolism accounted for this increased turnover. The systemic clearance of glutathione was 3.22 +/- 0.51 ml per min X 100 gm body weight. The efflux of glutathione from liver therefore was calculated to contribute over 90% of total glutathione inflow into the circulation, as determined from the clearance and the arterial concentration of glutathione. Thus, the liver is the major source of plasma glutathione, and turnover of hepatic glutathione in the basal state is accounted for almost entirely by efflux of glutathione from the liver. During fasting, the plasma clearance of exogenous glutathione increased to 5.32 +/- 0.35 ml per min X 100 gm body weight, and the utilization of methionine for glutathione synthesis increased markedly. The increased extrahepatic catabolism during fasting results in a decrease in plasma glutathione, which in turn may account for the observed increase in sinusoidal glutathione efflux with concomitant stimulation of the rate of hepatic glutathione turnover and of synthesis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Tripolar concentric ring electrode electroencephalography using Signa gel for impedance matching

Our goal is to develop a high-spatial resolution and high signal-to-noise electroencephalography (EEG) recording system. Conventional scalp EEG is contaminated by noise represented by non-brain electrical activity such as ocular artifacts, scalp muscle potentials, electrocardiogram, etc. Conventional disc EEG recordings also have reference electrode problems. To overcome the problems of the disc electrodes (Fig. 1. A) we have developed the tripolar concentric ring electrode (TCRE). The TCRE consists of three electrode elements - outer ring, middle ring, and the central disc (Fig. 1, B). In the past we have always used Ten20 paste to attach the TCREs and match skin to electrode impedances. For many electrodes, say 64 or more, it would be time consuming to use Ten20 paste. In this study we demonstrate that Signa gel on TCREs acts as an effective means to match electrode impedances to the scalp. We recorded physiological brain signals using Signa gel and our 10 mm diameter TCREs. The EEG signals we recorded with the TCREs (tEEG) originated from alpha wave activity. A conventional disc electrode (CDE) next to the TCRE was used to record EEG for comparison. We believe that 10 mm TCREs, and gel used for impedance matching, are appropriate when many TCREs are needed for high spatial sampling.
Probabilistic aspects of machine decomposition theory

Results obtained concern the likelihood that randomly chosen machines admit nontrivial decompositions of their state behavior.
Improved lithium–sulfur cells with a treated carbon paper interlayer

A simple, low-cost modification of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) cells by placing a treated carbon paper between the sulfur electrode and the separator has been investigated to significantly improve the performance of Li–S cells. The treated carbon paper was prepared by an alcohol-alkaline/thermal treatment of a commercial Toray carbon paper, introducing hydroxyl functional groups and micro-cracks on the carbon fibers in the carbon paper, which enhances the hydrophilicity and increases surface areas of the carbon paper matrix. The modified Li–S cells deliver a higher initial capacity of 1651 mAh g−1 at 1.5–2.8 V at a rate of C/5 compared to the cells without any interlayer or with an untreated carbon paper interlayer. The cells with the treated carbon paper offer additional improvement in performance when the discharge cut-off voltage is raised to 1.8 V: 1057, 1002, and 929 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles, respectively, at C/5, C/2, and 1 C rates. The improved cell performance is attributed to the 3D architecture of the carbon paper interlayer, serving as a conductive skeleton for trapping and depositing dissolved sulfur-containing active materials, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The novel configuration presented here offers a low-cost approach to overcome the persistent problems of Li–S cells.
Progression of T1 bladder tumors: better staging or better biology?: reply

See editorial counterpoint on pages 908–9 andreferenced original article on pages 1035–43.Dr. Bostwick is now at Bostwick Laboratories,6722 Patterson Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226.E-mail: bostwick@bostwicklaboratories.comAddress for reprints: Liang Cheng, M.D., Depart-ment of Pathology and Urology, UH 3465, IndianaUniversity School of Medicine, 550 North Univer-sity Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202. E-mail:lcheng@iupui.eduReceived June 9, 1999; accepted June 9, 1999.
Notes on the Deprived Institution: Illustrations from a State Mental Hospital

(1965). Notes on the Deprived Institution: Illustrations from a State Mental Hospital. The Sociological Quarterly: Vol. 6, No. 1, pp. 3-20.
Cellular Adapations of the Myocardium to Chronic Exercise

The heart responds positively to programs of chronic dynamic exercise. Hallmark adaptations of the heart include a training bradycardia, increases in end-diastolic dimension and maximal stroke volume, and a general improvement in ventricular performance and contractile function. Of considerable clinical significance are the general observations that chronic exercise renders the myocardium less susceptible to the deleterious effects of acute ischemic episodes and can effectively prevent and/or reverse many of the cardiac functional deficits that are known to occur in settings of chronic hypertension, advanced age, and myocardial infarction. In the text that follows, information gathered over the last 25 to 30 years has been reviewed in an attempt to identify cellular myocardial adaptations, both known and hypothetical, that are responsible for the observed effects of chronic dynamic exercise on the function and morphology of the heart in both normal and selected pathophysiologic settings. Finally, a variety of unresolved issues regarding the ability of chronic exercise to elicit adaptive cardiocyte responses has been identified. In so doing, it is hoped that creative thought and future work in the area will be stimulated.
Phase transitions in artificial intelligence systems

Abstract We predict that large-scale artificial intelligence systems and cognitive models will undergo sudden phase transitions from disjointed parts into coherent structures as their topological connectivity increases beyond a critical value. These situations, ranging from production systems to semantic net computations, are characterized by event horizons in space-time that determine the range of causal connections between processes. At transition, these event horizons undergo explosive changes in size. This phenomenon, analogous to phase transitions in nature, provides a new paradigm with which to analyze the behavior of large-scale computation and determine its generic features.
Thyroid carcinoma: molecular pathways and therapeutic targets

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine system. The most frequent type of thyroid malignancy is papillary carcinoma. These tumors frequently have genetic alterations leading to the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Most common mutations in papillary carcinomas are point mutations of the BRAF and RAS genes and RET/PTC rearrangement. These genetic alterations are found in >70% of papillary carcinomas and they rarely overlap in the same tumor. Most frequent alterations in follicular carcinomas, the second most common type of thyroid malignancy, include RAS mutations and PAX8-PPARγ rearrangement. RET point mutations are crucial for the development of medullary thyroid carcinomas. Many of these mutations, particularly those leading to the activation of the MAPK pathway, are being actively explored as therapeutic targets for thyroid cancer. A number of compounds have been studied and showed antitumor effects in preclinical studies and are being tested in ongoing clinical trials.
Intestinal lymphatic transport of absorbed cholesterol.

SummaryExogenous cholesterol after its intestinal absorption was found to be conveyed into the systemic circulation by the lymph of the thoracic duct. Little or no transport occurred via the portal venous system.
Cyclic plasticity near a cracklike elliptical flaw

Abstract An elastic-plastic analysis of a cracklike elliptical flaw under cyclic tensile loading is discussed. A highly efficient numerical approach combining aspects of the finite element and boundary collocation methods was developed to allow accurate solution detail in the root region of the flaw. Conditions of localized yielding at the flaw root is the focus of the work with applied stress levels small relative to yield stress and plastic zone dimensions comparable to the root radius of curvature. The flaw is considered isolated in an infinite sheet under plane strain constraint. Numerical results are given for the stress and strain distributions and the plastic zone changes during a constant amplitude cyclic loading. These elastic-plastic results are compared with the predictions of elastic and fully plastic analysis and also with sharp crack solutions.
Family Caregivers for Seniors in Rural Areas

In this article, the demographic characteristics of family caregivers for seniors in rural communities are assessed to examine whether their circumstances could facilitate or impede their well-being. Services available in rural communities for family members providing ongoing care to frail seniors is examined, particularly those that provide health and social services. How families access these services and whether there are specific barriers in service provision are analyzed based on current social work practice and the research literature. Trends for future services are identified as well as whether these trends support new roles for social workers in rural settings.
Early neogene continental sedimentation in the vallecito and fish creek mountains, Western Salton Trough, California

Abstract Lower Neogene sedimentary rocks in the Vallecito and the Fish Creek Mountains, along with locally intercalated basalts, were deposited in a half-graben Basin-and-Range setting. Three depositional environments are recognized: (1) braided stream; (2) alluvial fan; and (3) landslide. A Platte-type braided stream system, with local accumulation of seif dunes, drained a westward-tilted pediment surface. Coarse sand was deposited as transverse and linguoid bars, sand dunes and flat beds, and gravel was deposited as longitudinal bars, modified by tractive flow, in broad, shallow channels. This system joined a Donjek-type northward-flowing axial drainage characterized by channels with marked topographic relief. Deep channel reaches were infilled with longitudinal gravel bars and massive granular, very coarse sand from concentrated dispersions. Giant sand waves were rarely present in deeper channel reaches. In shallower channel tracts, coarse sand was deposited as transverse bars, sand dunes and flat beds, and gravel was deposited as small longitudinal bars. The alluvial fan deposits accumulated along the faulted western margin of the basin and prograded eastward over the axial drainage. They consist of debris flow, sheetflood and Donjek-type channel-fill deposits. Subenvironments are defined by the distribution of these deposits and their bedding geometries. The upper fan (above the intersection point) is characterized by debris flow and channel-fill deposits with numerous internal erosional contacts and laterally discontinuous beds. The middle fan (below the intersection point) is marked by crudely developed thickening-upward cycles of laterally continuous, repetitively interbedded, very thick debris flow and thinner bedded sheetflood deposits. The lower fan is represented by interbedded debris flow and sheetflood deposits that are thinner bedded and less organized than the middle fan subfacies. The landslide deposits locally top the sequence. They are massive, laterally continuous sedimentary megabreccias containing clasts that are up to 5 m in diameter and display a distinctive jigsaw-puzzle texture. These breccias formed as two cataclysmically emplaced, air-cushioned landslides. One was dislodged from the Vallecito Mountains and traveled eastward, while the other was released from the Fish Creek Mountains and traveled westward.
The Freshman Effect and Voting Alignments A Reexamination of Judicial Folklore

This article examines a frequently cited feature of judicial behavior known as the "freshman effect." Recent studies of contemporary justices have concluded that, contrary to the freshman effect hy...
Innovation, Agglomeration and Regional Competition – Edited by Charlie Karlsson, Borje Johansson, and Roger R. Stough

A review of the book "Innovation, Agglomeration and Regional Competition," edited by Charlie Karlsson, Borje Johansson, and Roger R. Stough is presented.
Targeting malignant mitochondria with therapeutic peptides

The current status of peptides that target the mitochondria in the context of cancer is the focus of this review. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy used to kill tumor cells are principally mediated by the process of apoptosis that is governed by the mitochondria. The failure of anticancer therapy often resides at the level of the mitochondria. Therefore, the mitochondrion is a key pharmacological target in cancer due to many of the differences that arise between malignant and healthy cells at the level of this ubiquitous organelle. Additionally, targeting the characteristics of malignant mitochondria often rely on disruption of protein–protein interactions that are not generally amenable to small molecules. We discuss anticancer peptides that intersect with pathological changes in the mitochondrion.
Neuroendocrine lung cancer: a receptor-mediated disease?

Neuroendocrine lung cancer is traditionally subclhssified into small cell cancer, atypical carcinoids, and carcinoids [1] . Among these, small cell cancer is one of the most common pulmonary neoplasms found in humans and occurs almost exclusively in~people who smoke [2]i A similar exposure-disease association has nor been esoabLished for the carcinoids, possibly because these rumors are relatively rare [1, 21 . Small cell cancer is an extremely aggressive rumor that tends to metastasize extensively at an early stage . Although~ an initial response to radiotherapy and chemotherapy is common, the rumors usually develop drug resistance and survival beyond 12 months of diagnosis is rare [3]. In contrast, carcinoids are generally slow-growing, more benign lesions with~only low-metastatic potential and a low-recurrence rate after surgical reseeZion [1, 3] . Despite their profound differences in clinical behavior, all~ three types of neuroendocrine lung rumors express one or several neuroendocrine markers . Among these, secretion of the peptides mammalian bombesin (1VIB) and calcitoni.n (CT) and expression of neuron specific enolase (NSE), [.-dopa decarboxylase, and electron-dense neuroendocrine secretion granules are the most common [3] . For decades, scientists have wondered why a type of rumor that demonstrates such convincing epidemiologic link with smoking seemed to be nonreproducible in animal' experimentations, all~ of'~ which attempted to mimic ex-
Analysis of the Role of the EnvZ Linker Region in Signal Transduction Using a Chimeric Tar/EnvZ Receptor Protein, Tez1

Tez1 is a chimeric protein in which the periplasmic and transmembrane domains of Tar, a chemosensor, are fused to the cytoplasmic catalytic domain of EnvZ, an osmosensing histidine kinase, through the EnvZ linker. Unlike Taz1 (a similar hybrid with the Tar linker), Tez1 could not respond to Tar ligand, aspartate, whereas single Ala insertion at the transmembrane/linker junction, as seen in Tez1A1, restored the aspartate-regulatable phenotype. Analysis of the Ala insertion site requirement and the nature of the insertion residue on the phenotype of Tez1 indicated that a junction region between the transmembrane domain and the predicted helix I in the linker is critical to signal transduction. Random mutagenesis revealed that P185Q mutation in the Tez1 linker restored the aspartate-regulatable phenotype. Substitution mutations at Pro-185 further demonstrated that specific residues are required at this site for an aspartate response. None of the hybrid receptors constructed with different Tar/EnvZ fusion sites in the linker could respond to aspartate, suggesting that specific interactions between the two predicted helices in the linker are important for the linker function. In addition, a mutation (F220D) known to cause an OmpCc phenotype in EnvZ resulted in similar OmpCc phenotypes in both Tez1A1 and Tez1, indicating the importance of the predicted helix II in signal propagation. Together, we propose that the N-terminal junction region modulates the alignment between the two helices in the linker upon signal input. In turn helix II propagates the resultant conformational signal into the downstream catalytic domain of EnvZ to regulate its bifunctional enzymatic activities.
Decomposition of Sodium Mucate by Aerobacter cloacae

ConclusionAerobacter cloacœ is able to decompose sodium mucate (in the synthetic liquid basic medium of Koser) and thus there is no apparent difference from the rest of the coliform group in ability to attack sodium mucate.
Search for spin-slip lockins using tailored impurity layers

We have searched for spin-slip lockins with impurity layers introduced into Ho and Er as artificial superlattice perturbations. The locking interaction with the impurities appears to be weak or nonexistent.
Couplers for fiber-in-the-loop systems

Couplers will play an important role in the deployment of fiber-in-the-loop (FITL) systems. Corning is currently using a planar integrated optics technology to manufacture couplers that are well-suited for FITL applications.
Diffusion in a pure, high-vacancy-content crystal

The idea that vacancies can follow a nonrandom walk in a solid has been developed and put into a quantitative form for diffusion in a pure, high-vacancy-content crystal. Intrinsic and tracer diffusion in a metal have been analyzed, and the electrical mobility in an ionic solid has been expressed in terms of the tracer diffusion coefficient and the separate correlation factors for atoms and vacancies. The description uses classical methods of diffusion theory, and generalized results that account for nonrandom vacancy walk have been shown to reduce to those obtained by Howard and Lidiard in a system where the vacancy moves randomly as an isolated point defect. Experimental data for carbon diffusion in fcc iron have been examined to illustrate an interstitial-vacancy analogy that was used in this analysis, and the general result has been applied specifically to discuss vacancy diffusion in ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}\mathrm{S}$.
Considerations in the effective teaching of object-to-symbol matching

This case study presents findings from an initial phase of a communication program for a man with severe mental retardation. A matching-to-sample procedure was used to teach relations between objects and abstract symbols (lexigrams). It was found that the configuration of the teaching trials greatly influenced the speed of initial acquisition of the relations. Specifically, acquisition did not occur with the lexigram in the sample position, but acquisition occurred rapidly with the object in the sample position. Once the problem was learned with this configuration, reversing the positions of lexigrams and objects did not disturb the acquired relationship. The next problem was learned rapidly with objects as samples and lexigrams as choice stimuli. High accuracy was maintained when stimuli from these two problems were combined within the same session, regardless of whether objects or lexigrams served as samples. These findings verify the usefulness of the matching-to-sample procedure as a means of teaching...
Estimating Trace Element Availability in Soils with a Seasonal Water Table using Commercially Available Protocols

The soil accumulation of metals and other elements as a result of human activities is a global concern. This investigation involves the use of commercially available extractions to estimate elemental abundance and availability. The need exists, especially in poor nations, to have cost-effective analytical capabilities to perform an initial screening of a soil resource to determine if a problem exists. Three extraction protocols are proposed: (i) an aqua regia digestion to estimate a baseline geochemistry, (ii) a pyrophosphate extraction to estimate elemental abundances associated with the soil organic fraction, and (iii) a water extraction to estimate the most available fraction. If the soil resource is impacted, then more refined and traditional methods are required to document the extent of impact for possible remediation. The three extraction protocols were applied to soils with little impact to illustrate the assessment potential for selected metals and p-block elements.
The National Library of Medicine's Role in Biomedical Communications

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Influence of nitrapyrin on N2O losses from soil receiving fall-applied anhydrous ammonia.

Abstract Fertilizer application in crop production agriculture has been identified as a major source of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide. Thus, management strategies that increase fertilizer N use efficiency will reduce N2O emission. Anhydrous ammonia applied to cropland in the fall is recognized as a management practice that increases the risk of N loss from the rooting zone, however, this practice is still common in the U.S. Midwest Corn Belt. The nitrification inhibitor, nitrapyrin has been shown to decrease soil N losses during the fall and spring, and maintain fertilizer N availability to the crop. Additionally, nitrification inhibitors have shown promise in reducing soil N2O emissions. However, there have been no studies evaluating the effectiveness of nitrapyrin to reduce annual N2O emissions from land receiving fall-applied anhydrous ammonia. This study was conducted over 2 years to measure N2O emissions from corn plots with fall-applied anhydrous ammonia with and without nitrapyrin. Based on soil NO3 and NH4 analyses, we observed that nitrapyrin delayed nitrification, and in 1 year, reduced late fall/early spring N2O emission. However, annual N2O emissions were not significantly reduced. Significantly higher corn grain yields were observed in the nitrapyrin treatment in both years.
Epigenetics of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA expression, have been reported widely in the literature to play a major role in the genesis of lung cancer. The goal of this review is to summarize the common epigenetic changes associated with lung cancer to give some clarity to its etiology, and to provide an overview of the potential translational applications of these changes, including applications for early detection, diagnosis, prognostication, and therapeutics.
The red face: Historical considerations

Abstract The vasomotor phenomenon of which the red face of blushing is a part is first mentioned in Genesis . 1 It occurs in the story of the sons of Jacob and their dealings with their brother Joseph, who had been sold into slavery in Egypt and had risen to the become Pharaoh's second in command. Charles Brim, student of Biblical medicine who attempted to apply the principles of the renowned Biblical scholar Rashi to the study of Old Testament medicine, described the situation: When Joseph saw his brother Benjamin after an absence of twenty-two years he became nervous and fidgety, vaymaher and, trying to conceal his emotional reaction, he blushed, nichm'roo rachmov —his emotions heated up his skin; he felt like crying, y'vakesh livkoss . So he retired to an antechamber and sobbed there. 2 Other authors, including the scholars of King James, translate this passage less freely. Be that as it may, the red face of blushing is a commonplace embedded in the literature and records of all peoples who have passed along readable accounts, considered usually as a response associated with embarrassment or modesty, two conditions often closely allied. "Blushing," Charles Darwin remarked in 1872, "is the most peculiar and the most human of all expressions." 3 Mark Twain topped him with this: "Man is the only animal that blushes. Or ought to." 4 But our favorite quote among the dozens available on the subject is to be found in Edmund Spenser's Faerie Queen (1589) 5 ; it shows the instinctive feel of the true poet for matters autonomic: Her pure, and eloquent blood Spoke in her cheeks, and so distinctly wrought That one might almost say her body thought The obvious relationship between emotional state and red face has inspired a voluminous literature on the psychosomatic aspects of skin diseases, particularly those affecting the flush areas of the face, the "rosacea oval," as John Stokes called it. 6 Studies of this nature reached a peak in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, and are summarized in scholarly fashion by Maximilian Obermayer in his milestone publication, Psychocutaneous Medicine (1955). 7 Unfortunately the amorphous nature of the data in most of these studies does not lend itself readily to rigorous proof, a fact acknowledged frankly by many of the investigators themselves. The renewed interest evident now in the subject, accompanied by the application of modern techniques and new methods of neurologic and psychiatric quantification, brings with it the promise of a closer approximation of the truth.
Culture and Diverging Views of Social Events

The authors compared East Asians’ and Americans’ views of everyday social events. Research suggests that Americans tend to focus more on the self and to have a greater sense of personal agency than East Asians. The authors assessed whether, compared to East Asians, Americans emphasize main characters even when events do not involve the self and whether they see more agency or intentionality in actions, even when the actions are not their own. Whether East Asians would observe more emotions in everyday scenarios than would Americans also was investigated. In Study 1, Chinese and Americans read alleged diary entries of another person. Americans did focus more on main characters and on characters’ intentionality. Study 2 replicated these results comparing Taiwanese and Americans on free recall of events concerning the self and of narratives and videos concerning others. Study 2 also found that Taiwanese made more comments about the emotional states of characters.
Viewer preferences for adaptive playout

Adaptive media playout techniques are used to avoid buffer underflow in a dynamic streaming environment where the available bandwidth may be fluctuating. In this paper we report human perceptions from audio quality studies that we performed on speech and music samples for adaptive audio playout. Test methods based on ITU-R BS. 1534-1 recommendation were used. Studies were conducted for both slow playout and fast playout. Two scales - a coarse scale and a finer scale was used for the slow and fast audio playout factors. Results from our study can be used to determine acceptable slow and fast playout factors for speech and music content. An adaptive media playout algorithm could use knowledge of these upper and lower bounds on playback speeds to decide its adaptive playback schedule.
UVB-dependent modulation of epidermal cytokine network: roles in UVB-induced depletion of Langerhans cells and dendritic epidermal T cells.

The epidermis of mice consists of three cellular components, i.e., keratinocytes, Langerhans cells (LC), and dendritic epidermal T cells (DETC). Each epidermal subpopulation produces a different set of cytokines, thereby forming a unique cytokine milieu. These cytokines, in turn, support the survival and growth of LC and DETC and regulate their immunological functions. LC and DETC play important, but distinct, effector roles in protective immunity against antigens that are generated in or penetrate into the epidermis. Acute or chronic exposure of mice to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is known to impair this cutaneous immunity, as evidenced by the failure to induce T cell-mediated immune reactions, by the generation of antigen-specific immunological unresponsiveness, and by the development of skin cancers. Importantly, these changes are associated with reduced densities of LC and DETC in UVB-exposed skin, suggesting that the deficiency in these epidermal leukocytes may account for some of the deleterious influences of UVB radiation on skin. Here I will review the recent advance in our understanding of the mechanisms by which UVB radiation may deplete LC and DETC from epidermis. More specifically, I will discuss the following possibilities: a) UVB-mediated suppression of the production of relevant growth factors for LC and DETC, b) UVB-induced abrogation of surface expression of growth factor receptors, and c) UVB-triggered apoptotic cell death in epidermal leukocytes.
Periodate oxidation of marine high molecular weight dissolved organic matter : Evidence for a major contribution from 6-deoxy-and methyl sugars

Abstract Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy has been used to infer that marine high molecular weight dissolved organic matter (HMWDOM) is a mixture of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. However, acid and base catalyzed hydrolysis of HMWDOM followed by molecular level analyses using gas and liquid chromatography provide only low to modest yields of simple sugars, amino acids, and lipids. Here we use periodate over-oxidation to investigate the composition of HMWDOM. Our analyses show that the oxidation of HMWDOM carbohydrate consumes more periodate per carbon on a molar basis (1.3:1) than simple sugars (0.8:1) or linear polysaccharides (1.0:1), and that HMWDOM is highly branched. We also recover acetic acid and methanol as major oxidation products. Methanol and acetic acid are derived from the oxidation of methyl and 6-deoxy sugars, and our analyses suggest these sugars are major components of HMWDOM. Periodate over-oxidation shows that lipids are not major constituents of HMWDOM, and that most of the alkyl carbon observed in the 13CNMR spectra between 0–45 ppm that has been previously assigned to lipids is due to the methyl carbons of acetamide and 6-deoxy sugars.
Absence of negative environmental effects of increased soil P levels in cattle congregation zones

Determining soil nutrient distribution in pasture with beef cattle operation is critical to identifying which area is at risk of nitrogen or phosphorus buildup and loading. Characterizing spatial variability of soil nutrients in relations to landscape location is important for understanding the effects of future land use change on soil nutrients and water pollution. We hypothesized that cattle congregation site may have higher concentrations of phosphorus and nitrogen than in the pasture and grazing site or the adjoining forest site. This study assessed levels of Mehlich-1 extractable P, total inorganic N, and soil P saturation in relation to landscape locations in subtropical beef cattle pasture. Soil samples were collected during the spring and fall of 2005 to 2007 from three 19 adjoining landscape sites that are associated with beef cattle operation. These sites consisted of three locations: congregation, grazing, and forest sites. The levels of extractable P, total inorganic N, and P saturation in soils varied with landscape location. Congregation site had the highest concentration of extractable P of 36.1 mg kg−1, followed by grazing site of 17.7 mg kg−1, and forest site of 8.2 mg kg−1. Spatial distribution of total inorganic nitrogen across the landscape was higher for congregation site (2.3 mg kg−1) than forest site (0.9 mg kg−1) and grazing site (0.7 mg kg−1). The overall spatial distribution of extractable P from congregation site to forest site can be described by P = −4.2x + 45.8; (R 2 = 0.97**); the best-fit models for total inorganic N was 0.04x 2 − 0.6x + 3.5; (R 2 = 0.89**) and for soil P saturation was −3.6x + 36.2; (R 2 = 0.92**). Results show that the levels of extractable P, total inorganic nitrogen, and soil phosphorus saturation were decreasing from the congregation site to forest site. Although our results may have had supported our hypothesis that congregation site typical on Florida ranchers have greater concentrations of extractable P than in grazing site and forest site, the average extractable P at all three landscape locations did not exceed the crop requirement threshold of 36 mg kg−1 and the water quality protection threshold of 150 mg kg−1. Our current pasture management including cattle rotation in terms of grazing days and current fertilizer application had thus no negative environmental impact on landscape with cow–calf operation.
The influence of infections of nuclear-polyhedrosis virus on adult cabbage loopers and their progeny

Abstract The longevity, mating, and oviposition of adult cabbage loopers ( Trichoplusia ni ) infected with nuclear-polyhedrosis virus were not affected, even when high titers of virus were used; infection occurred only when the virus was injected into the hemocoel. Histological examination of diseased adults revealed infected nuclei in the tracheal matrix cells but rarely in the fat body, hypodermis, or other tissues that are infected at the larval stage. Viability of eggs was significantly reduced (to less than 10%) the first few days after treatment when 1-day-old female moths were injected with the virus, but this effect decreased with dilution. Also, the effect was less when the female was older at the time of infection. Examination of dead eggs showed that embryological development had commenced. The large numbers of progeny reared from moths that were injected with the virus rarely showed infection, indicating that transovarian transmission of the virus did not occur. In contrast, progeny of moths fed the polyhedra were often infected though the effect was unpredictable and could be eliminated by surface-sterilization of the eggs.
Shear induced transformation toughening in ceramics

Abstract There is experimental evidence that the tetragonal to monoclinic transformation in zirconia (ZrO2) can be triggered not only by hydrostatic pressure but also by shear stresses. In this paper we consider the implications of a transformation criterion which depends on both mean stress and shear stress on transformation toughening in ceramics reinforced with zirconia inclusions. We treat zirconia toughened ceramics (ZTC) as dilute composites of randomly oriented inclusions in an elastic matrix and develop the constitutive model for the composite from the behaviour of single inclusions by orientation averaging. We thenstudy quasistatic crack propagation and predict the transformation zone, distribution of transformed inclusions and toughness enhancement.
Diffraction Efficiency Of Strong Volume Holograms

We investigate the diffraction efficiency of strong volume holograms in which the coupling parameter is several times that needed for maximum diffraction efficiency. We discuss the implications of our findings on photorefractive implementations of various neural network systems.
The molecular mechanism of sulfated carbohydrate recognition by the cysteine-rich domain of mannose receptor.

The mannose receptor (MR) binds foreign and host ligands through interactions with their carbohydrates. Two portions of MR have distinct carbohydrate recognition properties. One is conferred by the amino-terminal cysteine-rich domain (Cys-MR), which plays a critical role in binding sulfated glycoproteins including pituitary hormones. The other is achieved by tandemly arranged C-type lectin domains that facilitate carbohydrate-dependent uptake of infectious microorganisms. This dual carbohydrate binding specificity enables MR to bind ligands by interacting with both sulfated and non-sulfated polysaccharide chains. We previously determined crystal structures of Cys-MR complexed with 4-SO_4-N-acetylglucosamine and with an unidentified ligand resembling Hepes (N-[2-hydroxyethyl]piperazine-N′-[2-ethanesulfonic acid]). In continued efforts to elucidate the mechanism of sulfated carbohydrate recognition by Cys-MR, we characterized the binding affinities between Cys-MR and potential carbohydrate ligands using a fluorescence-based assay. We find that Cys-MR binds sulfated carbohydrates with relatively high affinities (K_D=0.1 mM to 1.0 mM) compared to the affinities of other lectins. Cys-MR also binds Hepes with a K_D value of 3.9 mM, consistent with the suggestion that the ligand in the original Cys-MR crystal structure is Hepes. We also determined crystal structures of Cys-MR complexed with 3-SO_4-Lewis^x, 3-SO_4-Lewis^a, and 6-SO_4-N-acetylglucosamine at 1.9 A, 2.2 A, and 2.5 A resolution, respectively, and the 2.0 A structure of Cys-MR that had been treated to remove Hepes. The conformation of the Cys-MR binding site is virtually identical in all Cys-MR crystal structures, suggesting that Cys-MR does not undergo conformational changes upon ligand binding. The structures are used to rationalize the binding affinities derived from the biochemical studies and to elucidate the molecular mechanism of sulfated carbohydrate recognition by Cys-MR.
Utility of CT angiography for evaluation of living kidney donors

We reviewed our initial experience with helical computed tomography (CT) angiography in the evaluation of living kidney donors which, until now, has necessitated arteriography. Nineteen donors (12 women, 7 men) have had their renal anatomy evaluated solely by CT angiography preoperatively. All scans demonstrated normal collecting systems and single ureters. Five donors (26%) had supernumerary renal arteries. Fourteen donors had single, 4 donors had two, and 1 donor had three renal arteries. Helical CT demonstrated small polar vessels in several donors. Two donors (10%) had supernumerary renal veins. Accuracy of vascular anatomy defined on CT was 90% when confirmed at operation. Anatomically all CT findings were consistent with operative findings except in 1 donor who was found to have a 0.8 cm lesion near the renal hilum. At our institution, the total charges for selective renal arteriography are $3845 and for helical CT with three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction are $1546. The amount of contrast dye (approximately 100 mL) is equivalent. Patients uniformly reported that the CT scan was a convenient and painless procedure. The accuracy of helical CT angiography is equivalent to arteriography in assessing renal vascular anatomy (with the additional benefit of imaging venous and parenchymal anatomy). Charges for helical CT are 59% less. There is greater patient acceptance and potentially less morbidity associated with the non-invasive nature of helical CT. We believe that CT angiography is the radiologic procedure of choice for the assessment of renal anatomy in potential living kidney donors.
BRINGING TAYLOR POLYNOMIALS TO THE FOREFRONT OF DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

ABSTRACT Taylor polynomials ordinarily are introduced towards the end of second semester calculus. In this note we propose introducing them very early in the course, as an extension of linear approximations, and allowing them to weave various threads of differential calculus into a coherent fabric. Calculators and computers operating on these polynomials allow the interplay of geometrical, numerical and algebraic aspects of problems to reinforce the concepts. An example motivating the need for mathematical theory is also discussed.
Refining and expanding the role of small, dense low-density lipoproteins.

The heterogeneity of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, s characterized by variation in size, density, and chemical comosition, is well established [1]. Most epidemiological studies, ave demonstrated that a predominance of small, dense LDL paricles is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease CVD), although this association is not always independent of ther lipid levels, due to correlations of LDL size with levels of lasma triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol HDL-C) [2,3]. This combined lipid profile of small, dense LDL, ncreased TG and decreased HDL-C, has been termed the “atheroenic lipoprotein phenotype” (ALP) or “lipid triad” [4,5]. Although everal atherogenic mechanisms for small, dense LDL have been roposed, including reduced affinity to the LDL-receptor binding ite, increased uptake into the arterial wall due to its smaller diamter, and increased oxidative susceptibility [6], much remains to e learned about the role of small, dense LDL in cardiovascular isease. In this issue of Atherosclerosis, two reports refine and expand ur understanding of the roles of small, dense LDL in risk for disase. Vekic et al. [7] describe a study of apparently healthy Serbian remenopausal women, menopausal women and men (average ges 37, 53 and 48 years, respectively) examining concentrations f cholesterol and apolipoprotein B in small, dense LDL particles sdLDL-C and sdLDL-apoB, respectively) using a technique develped by Hirano et al. in Japan [8], with LDL size determined by radient gel electrophoresis [9] and traditional lipid measures. lthough the study sample size is limited, the authors were able to
Ddecay of Re188

Abstract The gamma rays in Os 188 following beta decay of 18-h Re 188 have been studied using coincidence and directional correlation techniques. The results agree with the principal features of the decay scheme proposed by Johns et al. 1 ). A number of new, weak transitions are observed and an additional level is proposed at 1.750 MeV. Directional correlation measurements were made on six cascades. From the directional correlation measurements, spins 2, 2, 0, 2, 0, 2 are assigned to the levels at 0.155 MeV, 0.633 MeV, 1.086 MeV, 1.461 MeV, 1.765 MeV and 1.941 MeV, respectively. The 0.478-MeV gamma ray is a dipole--quadrupole mixture with Q ≦ 99%. The 0.828-MeV and 1.308-MeV gamma rays are pure dipole.
The pharmacokinetics of metronidazole and its metabolites in critically ill patients

We evaluated the disposition of metronidazole and its two major metabolites in 14 critically ill patients with liver and renal dysfunction. Patients received 500 mg of metronidazole iv for periods of 2-13 days and were studied either during therapy or after their final dose. The metronidazole half-life ranged between 4.95 and 42.4 h. Patients with obstructive liver disease exhibited the longest half-lives (9.15-42.4 h) and lowest clearances (0.281-1.17 ml/min/kg). The presence of obstructive liver disease or renal impairment appeared to prolong the elimination of the hydroxymetabolite. We conclude that the pharmacokinetics of metronidazole and its metabolites are significantly affected in critically ill patients with liver and renal dysfunction.
Efficient method for SRAF rule determination

Depth of focus has always been of great concern in lightography as a result of processes optimized for specific feature dimensions and pitches. Insertion of sub-resolution assist features (SRAFs) or scatter bars ois a common technique used to equalize DOF through the variety of geometries used in a design. SRAFs can be inserted into the layout by a variety of means ranging from methods based on simple rule-tables to full-fledged layout simulations. Various tools are available from electronic design automation (EDA) vendors that are capable of placing srafs based on elaborate simulations of the design layout, but, a tool that can determine rule-table is not available. Each resolution enhancement technique (RET) engineer has his/her own methodology of extracting rules based on simulation of a large layout with design and sraf rule variations. Significant computational resources are required to carry-out these extensive simulations affecting the time required to formulate the rule table and restricting the variation that can be considered for the simulations. In this paper, we discuss an efficient method which overcomes this problem by searching in the design and dsraf rule domain to obtain a comprehensive set of sraf rules, thereby resulting in a better rule-set by using significantly lesser computational resources.
Reproductive responses to variation in temperature and food supply by house mice: II. Lactation.

Lactating HS/Ibg house mice housed at 21 degrees C and 5 degrees C were assigned to 3 feeding regimes: ad libitum, daily rations of 80% of ad libitum, or 60% of ad libitum beginning on the day that they bore litters. Significant interaction between temperature and food restriction was found for litter survivorship, pup survivorship, litter size, female body weight, and cumulative biomass production. The interaction was due to a magnification of the effects of food restriction at the colder temperature: i.e. mice fed ad libitum were similar at the two temperatures, mice fed the 80% ration differed, and mice fed the 60% ration differed to a greater extent. The dominant response to food restriction was cannibalism by females, which might be associated with the rate of loss in body weight by the female on the days preceding cannibalism of one or more pups. Incidents of cannibalism tended to involve a limited number of pups and to be repeated until a sustainable litter size was reached. In 3 of the food-restricted treatments, females weaned relatively large litters of relatively small pups, but in the most severe treatment (in the group fed the 60% ration at 5 degrees C), the females weaned small litters of large pups. The patterns of cannibalism and variable relative investment in individual pups reflect the aggressive breeding strategy of this classic colonizing species.
Skin temperature biofeedback : evaluation of non-clinical children's responses

Abstract The present study evaluated the extent to which children are able to learn to increase skin temperature with biofeedback training. Forty-nine children (ages 7–16) were randomly assigned to either standard biofeedback, novel biofeedback or control groups, which met for 16, 16, and 5 sessions, respectively. Results indicated children in the novel biofeedback group significantly increased their skin temperature as compared with the control group. The biofeedback groups exhibited significant skin temperature control during feedback. Results provide normative data on what to expect from children receiving skin temperature biofeedback.
Blood pressure, ocular perfusion pressure, and body mass index in glaucoma patients.

PurposeTo investigate relationships between blood pressure (BP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), and intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) of different body mass in...