cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Column separation of motile sperm from stallion semen

: Subfertility in stallions is common, and methodologies are needed to increase the fertility in these animals. In other species, removal of the dead sperm from semen increases the quality and fertility of semen. With horse semen we evaluated 48 combinations of column separation techniques using micro-spin chromatography columns. The greatest improvement in motility was observed with glass wool, whereas glass beads exhibited the greatest recovery of motile sperm. Although centrifugation time did not influence recovery rate or percent motility, a column length of 2 cm was superior for recovery of motile sperm. In scale-up experiments using 2-cm columns of glass beads in 50-ml syringe barrels, centrifugation proved to be superior to gravity flow, suction, and syringe plunger as extraction methods for drawing semen through the column; however, gravity flow produced acceptable results and may be more suitable for use in a field setting. When the volume of semen for separation was increased from 10 ml to 20 ml, the recovery rate of motile sperm was also increased. Further increasing the volume of semen for separation did not improve the recovery rate, and for volumes greater than 50 ml the column had a tendency to “clog.” Thus, a suitable method for column separation of equine sperm utilizes a 2-cm column of glass beads in a 50-ml syringe casing. Centrifugation is the ideal extraction method; however, gravity flow is an acceptable extraction method suited to the field setting, using a maximum semen volume of 50 ml.
Organosilicon compounds : XII. Anhydride, acid halide and chloroformate cleavage of the siliconcarbon bond of 2-silylsubstituted pyridines

Abstract Cleavage of the siliconcarbon bond of 2-(trimethylsilyl)pyridine has been affected by benzoyl chloride, phthalic anhydride, and ethyl chloroformate as well as benzaldehyde to provide a novel pathway to heterocyclic ketones, keto-acids, esters and alcohols. A cyclic four-membered transition state is proposed in which the polarity of both the siliconaromatic bond and the attacking reagent are stressed.
Adsorption and oxidation of carbon monoxide on {100} nickel: II. Combined LEED and mass spectrometer measurements☆

Abstract Observations of CO adsorption on {100} nickel made previously by Park and Farnsworth have been repeated with a combined LEED and mass spectrometer (MS) system. The results confirm the previous observations and are in disagreement with those of Lichtman, Kirst, and McQuistan. Possible causes of the discrepancy are indicated. CO adsorption on the surface subsequent to prolonged heat treatment was greatly reduced due to diffusion of contamination from the bulk. No desorption of O2 or O was observed even when a CO-covered surface was exposed to O2 and heated subsequently, but only large desorptions of CO2 and CO with a c2 × 2-O structure remaining on the surface. Also, heating a surface, which had been exposed to O2 only, produced desorption of CO but no trace of O2 or O was found.
The University of Virginia and the Creation of the American Campus

Abstract : The history of collegiate architecture and planning in the United States is a complicated story that ranges from Thomas Jefferson’s University of Virginia which is widely hailed as one of the most cohesive and influential designs ever completed in North American to the opposite extreme of a miscellaneous collection of buildings lacking any overall order. From the initial beginning of American higher education in the 17th century to the present, colleges and universities have grown in size and complexity and have been analyzed in many books and studies. Jefferson’s original design of a large U shaped common ground planted with trees and bordered by rows of columns—larger in from the professor’s pavilions and smaller Tuscan order in front of the student dormitories, and capped by a large domed structure known as the Rotunda at one end still inspires. To understand the significance of Jefferson’s “Academical Village” at the University of Virginia and its impact one must consider the broader context and background of American institutions of higher learning and some of the issues and the special terminology employed. Key Words : Campus, Architecture, University of Virginia, planning, names of architects. Resumen : La historia de la arquitectura academica y su planificacion en los Estados Unidos es una historia complicada que arranca de la Universidad de Thomas Jefferson de Virginia, ampliamente considerado como uno de los disenos mas cohesionados e influyentes jamas realizados en America del Norte. Desde los comienzos de la educacion superior en Estados Unidos en el siglo XVII hasta la actualidad, las universidades han crecido en tamano y complejidad y se han analizado en muchos libros y estudios. El diseno original de Jefferson de un gran terreno comun en forma de U, con arboles, bordeado por hileras de columnas y coronado por una gran estructura en forma de cupula conocida como la rotonda aun hoy sirve de inspiracion. Para entender el significado de lo que Jefferson llamo “Ciudad Universitaria” y, en concreto, su diseno de la Universidad de Virginia debemos considerar el contexto, el funcionamiento y objetivos de las instituciones estadounidenses de educacion superior y la terminologia empleada. Palabras clave : Campus, arquitectura, Universidad de Virginia, planificacion, arquitectos
Treatment of Severe Spell Syndrome in Congenitial Heart Disease

An infant with pulmonary atresia with a ventricular septal defect, developed a severe prolonged spell associated with a possible gastrointestinal hemorrhage of unknown etiology. Arterial blood studies revealed an extremely low oxygen tension, a markedly reduced pH and slightly reduced carbon dioxide tension. Intravenous infusion of sodium bicarbonate solution was associated with dramatic improvement of the child's condition, and a return of arterial blood pH to normal levels although arterial oxygen tension had improved only slightly.
High frequency AC response, DC resistivity and magnetic studies of holmium substituted Ni-ferrite: A novel electromagnetic material

Abstract Nanoparticles of holmium substituted nickel ferrites (NiHoxFe2−xO4) with x ranging from 0.0 to 0.15 have been prepared by the sol–gel auto-combustion method. Structural and morphology studies have been performed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). XRD patterns revealed the formation of pure spinel phase ferrites without any impurity phase. Lattice parameter increases along with a decrease in crystallite size with increasing the concentration of Ho3+ in the parent nickel ferrite due to large ionic radius of Ho3+ (0.901 A) as compared to Fe3+ (0.67 A). SEM shows the spherical, uniformly distributed homogenous nanoparticles grown by controlled reaction parameters of the sol–gel method. Complex permittivity (e*) and complex electric modulus (M*) have been studied for the present nanoferrites in the frequency ranges of 1 MHz–1 GHz. Frequency dependent dielectric parameters (relative permittivity (e′), dielectric loss (e″), dielectric loss tangent (tan δ)) decreases due to holmium substitution in nickel ferrites, showing the electrical conduction is decreasing in the nickel holmium ferrites with increase in the concentration of holmium. Complex modulus plots shows the poorly resolved semi circles and relaxation of nanoferrite is studied in the high frequency region. Also the relaxation time increases due to increase in x (0.0–0.15). DC electrical resistivity increases (107 Ω-cm–1010 Ω-cm) due to holmium ions substitution in nickel ferrites. Magnetic behavior was also characterized using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) under an applied magnetic field of 10 kOe and shows that magnetization decreases with increase in composition of holmium in nickel ferrites. High frequency behavior, low losses and very high DC electrical resistivity made the material a novel one for electromagnetic devices.
Evaluation of interfacial normal strength in a SCS-0/epoxy composite with cruciform specimens

In this study, the cruciform geometry is utilized to evaluate the interfacial normal strength in unidirectional SCS-0/epoxy composites by using single-fiber specimens. These model specimens are incrementally loaded in tension to failure with a specially built loading device mounted on the straining stage of a microscope. The initiation and location of interfacial debonding is observed in situ by microscopic examination and inspection of photoelastic fringe patterns. The model specimens are also loaded to failure in an MTS machine while strain and acoustic emission activity are continuously monitored. Analytical modeling by the 3-D finite-element method reveals that the radial stress at the interface is the dominant stress component and remains fairly constant (within 10%) over two-thirds of the central loading region. As a result, interface debonding always occurs in the interior of the sample (region initially free of stress singularities), thus avoiding the influence of free-edge effects on measured debond strengths.
Ecohydrological response to a geomorphically significant flood event in a semiarid catchment with contrasting ecosystems

[1] Climate and topographic conditions in a first-order semiarid catchment in central New Mexico have given rise to opposing hillslopes characterized by different soil profile, vegetation and landform characteristics. In this study, we present the differential response of these two hillslope ecosystems to a geomorphically significant (GS) flood event based upon field observations of rainfall, soil moisture and peak channel discharge. We illustrate the role played by slope position, soil properties and vegetation on soil moisture dynamics and runoff production. Furthermore, we document observed geomorphic changes in the opposing slopes. Analysis of the hillslope and channel response to this exceptional event provides insights on the terrain-soil-vegetation interactions acting on the movement of water and sediments through the semiarid system.
Uncertainty in retained austenite measurements applied to individual crystallographic orientations

A technique to measure the phase volume fraction of an individual orientation and the uncertainty in the measurement is demonstrated in this paper. The technique of complete pole figure averaging using neutron diffraction was used to assess the phase fraction of retained austenite in transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) steels and quantify the uncertainty in the phase fraction. In parallel, an ensemble of orientation distribution functions was calculated to assess crystallographic volume fractions of particular orientations and the uncertainty of these volume fractions using Monte Carlo techniques. These methods were combined to measure the retained austenite phase volume fraction of an individual orientation.
Effects of secondary variables on infiltration rate of open refrigerated vertical display cases with single-band air curtain

Abstract Recently the authors of this work reported the effects of several primary variables that can affect the performance of a circulated air curtain in protecting open refrigerated vertical display cases against infiltration of outside warm air. Those variables were either associated with the dynamics of the air curtain flow or were geometrical variables. There were a few other variables that were thought to have lesser impact on infiltration or relatively much harder to manage and vary; therefore, they were categorized as, so-called, secondary variables and decided to be studied separately in a complimentary investigation. These variables were not included in the permutations of the primary variables as they would drastically increase the number of experiments in the published primary -variables study. Due to using a few simplified assumptions or ideal conditions in the primary study, the secondary variables’ effects were incorporated as several correction functions to modify the infiltration rate obtained from the primary study. The four secondary variables studied here are turbulence intensity of the air curtain jet at its discharge nozzle, average percentage of the space between the shelves that was filled with food products, difference between the temperatures of ambient air and the jet at the discharge nozzle, as well as the relative humidity between the aforementioned locations. For the ranges of the variables commonly used in typical medium-temperature display cases, it was found that the temperature and relative humidity changes are of little or no importance, while the turbulence intensity changes infiltration rate almost linearly and the food level varies it in a nonlinear manner.
Content and perception of weight-related maternal messages communicated to adult daughters

This study examined communication between mothers and overweight daughters on weight or weight-related behaviors through the perspective of adult daughters. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to analyze in-depth individual interviews conducted with 15 adult daughters. Mothers who actively engaged in weight management behaviors, such as dieting and exercising regularly, transmitted these behaviors through modeling and served as continuous sources of verbal guidance on the topic. Weight management was discussed frequently and explicitly. Daughters relied on mothers for motivation in the form of supportive statements consisting of specific recommendations on weight management practices, encouragement to attempt or continue weight management practices, empathy with the struggle of managing weight, and affirmation of practices conducive to weight management. Mothers who did not engage in weight management behaviors were not viewed as credible sources for advice on diet and exercise. Daughters did most of the advice giving and modeling on weight management behaviors. Weight management was discussed infrequently and cautiously. Daughters perceived weight-related messages from mothers as unsolicited and critical. The results suggest that shared lifestyle goals among family members are important for facilitating supportive communication and engagement in health-promoting behaviors and have implications for family-based weight management interventions.
SU-E-T-372: Optimal Selection of Plane and Alignment Based on Quantitative Evaluation Using Three-Dimensional (3D) Dose Data for IMRT and VMAT Dosimetry

Purpose: Gamma, DTA and dose difference (DD) evaluations could take into account only the two axes on the evaluation plane for IMRT and VMAT plan verification dosimetry. However, some steep dose gradient region on another axis with the errors of measurement setup and the laser alignment can decrease the agreement between the calculation and measurement on the plane. In this study, we developed an optimal selection method of finding optimal plane of the evaluation and adequate alignment of the measurement data using three‐dimensional dose data. Methods: After the isocenter alignment of the measurement data manually, the optimal selection engine reconstructs dose planes at certain locations on the axis perpendicular to the evaluation plane from the 3D data of dose calculation. then, the calculation planes are compared with the measurement plane using gamma evaluation in order to choose the candidates of the best plane of the evaluation. Using the candidates with the combinations with rotations and shifts, DD evaluation is conducted to find out the best plane and the best combination of shift and rotation. To assess the effectiveness of the method, a head and neck IMRT plan measurement was performed and the path ratios of gamma evaluation (3%/3mm criteria) were measured with optimal selection and non‐optimal selection method, respectively. Results: Average pass ratio of gamma evaluation with the optimal selection method was14.2%‐better than with the non‐optimal selection method. Additionally, the method found 0.5mm‐ and 1.5mm‐deviations in the two‐axis on the evaluation plane, respectively. 1.0mm‐deviation was also measured on the axis perpendicular to the plane. Conclusions: IMRT and VMAT verification measurement with the method could provide us not only the dosimetric check of the plan with better result but also the mechanical test of isocenter laser alignment.
The influence of parents and peers on adolescent indoor tanning behavior: Findings from a multi-city sample

Background Indoor tanning is common among adolescents. Objective Our purpose was to examine the influence of parents and peers on adolescent indoor tanning. Methods Telephone interviews were conducted with 5274 teen-parent pairs in the 100 largest US cities. Random coefficient regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between parental and peer factors and adolescent indoor tanning. Results Teens' report of whether their parents allow them to tan indoors was the strongest predictor (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 5.6), whereas parents' modeling (aOR: 1.2), attitudes (aOR: 1.1), and concern about teen tanning (aOR: 1.9) were significantly but less strongly associated. Teens thinking most of their peers like to be tan (aOR: 1.7) and perceived percentage of peers who tan indoors (aOR: 1.0) also were significantly associated. Limitations The cross-sectional design was a limitation of this study. Conclusion Interventions targeting adolescent indoor tanning should address both family- and peer-related factors.
Absence of glomerular injury or nephron loss in a normotensive rat remnant kidney model

Absence of glomerular injury or nephron loss in a normotensive rat remnant kidney model. Severe reduction in renal mass (>50%) in the rat uniformly results in progressive glomerular injury and loss of remnant nephrons postulated to be due to increases in glomerular function (hyperfiltration) and/or size (hypertrophy). Reduction in renal mass in the rat also leads to the development of systemic and/or glomerular hypertension. To examine the independent contributions of systemic hypertension and glomerular hyperfiltration and/or hypertrophy to progressive glomerular injury, a normotensive rat remnant kidney model was developed in the Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) strain. Of the 34 WKY rats that underwent 5/6 nephrectomy, 25 remained normotensive and without evidence of morphologic glomerular injury and/or nephron loss for up to 14 to 16 weeks, despite glomerular hyperfiltration and hypertrophy comparable to that previously observed in other rat strains. Micropuncture studies at ∼six weeks after reduction in renal mass demonstrated markedly increased SNGFR in remnant nephrons of normotensive rats as compared to controls (66 ± 7 vs. 25 ± 4 nl/min, P GC ) estimated from stop flow pressures were only slightly increased (52.7 ± 1 vs. 47.3 ± 1mm Hg, P GC required for adaptive hyperfiltration, may not be sufficient to initiate progressive glomerular injury and nephron loss.
Measurement of fiber bundle volume in reprocessed dialyzers.

BACKGROUND Fiber bundle volume (FBV) is an important determinant of dialyzer re-use efficiency. This measurement is performed after the dialyzer has been pressure cleaned and may underestimate the degree of clotted fibers a patient actually encounters while on dialysis. METHODS Real-time online measure of FBV has been validated using an ultrasound dilution method and the Transonic HD01 monitor (Ithaca, NY, USA). Thirty-one stable chronic hemodialysis patients were studied during the first hour and then during the last 30 minutes of a typical dialysis session. Ultrasound velocity curves using a saline bolus were recorded by flow dilution sensors placed directly on the blood tubing using methods described previously. Blood volume within the dialyzer compartment was determined using a mathematical extrapolation of the measured transit time for a bolus of saline to pass through the dialyzer. These data were compared to FBV obtained using a Seartronics DRS4 (Fresinius, Walnut Creek, CA, USA) reprocessing machine both before and after the same dialysis session. RESULTS At onset of treatment mean FBV by ultrasound was 100.0 +/- 2.7 ml and was unchanged at the end of the session at 100.0 +/- 3.1 ml (p = 0.49). Before a dialysis session, mean FBV measured on the DRS4 reprocessing machine was 123.5 +/- 2.1 ml and was unchanged following cleaning after dialysis at 121.7 +/- 2.0 ml (p = 0.20). The correlation coefficient between methods was 0.78. CONCLUSIONS FBV did not change during a dialysis session using an online real-time measure. The results of this study do not support concerns that hemodialysis patients may experience considerably less efficient dialysis than standard FBV determination would suggest due to undetected clotting.
Evaluation of an optical beam-position-monitor system with closed-loop steering capabilities

Abstract Imaging the synchrotron source profile onto the entrance slit of a monochromator provides a stable and reproducible energy calibration which is independent of the absolute position and drift of the electron beam. Potential electron-beam motions occurring during a fill result in a loss of flux through the beamline. We have implemented two independent beam position monitors which can be used as sensors to steer the vertical entrance mirror in order to maintain a maximum flux through a spherical grating varied line-spacing monochromator beamline. The system consists of a slotted plate photodiode which intercepts 2 mrad of synchrotron radiation next to the entrance mirror and a detector utilizing the photocurrents generated at the jaws of the entrance-slit assembly. Both monitors have a wide linear response range with a vertical position resolution of μ m. The combination of two independent beam position monitors allows an easy check on the mechanical and thermal stability of the entrance optical system as well as on the reproducibility and long-term fluctuations of the electron-beam source during user shifts. We will discuss the performance of the optical beam-position-monitor system and its implementation as a sensor in a closed-loop feedback system to maintain maximum flux through the beamline.
Conantokin-G antagonism of the NMDA receptor subtype expressed in cultured cerebellar granule cells

Abstract Conantokins are peptide antagonists of the N- methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) subclass of excitatory amino acid receptors. We compared conantokin-G and AP5 antagonism of NMDA receptor activity expressed in cultures of neonatal rat cerebellar granule cells, using the fluorescent calcium indicator dye fura-2. The results were consistent with the binding of two molecules of agonist (NMDA) for channel activation and one antagonist molecule (AP5) for inhibition. However, conantokin-G antagonism was more complex: the peptide inhibited only ∼70% of the elevation of intracellular free calcium produced by NMDA. These results, when combined with previous ones [8], suggest that conantokin-G may have different affinities for, and functional effects on, different subtypes of NMDA receptor complexes expressed in the mammalian CNS.
Novel Cr4+-based tunable solid state lasers

Spectroscopic and laser properties of chromium-doped forsterite (Cr:Mg2SiO4) are reviewed and future directions in development of other Cr(4+)-doped tunable solid-state lasers are discussed. The unique property of chromium-doped forsterite is that the lasing center was identified as tetravalent chromium (Cr(4+)) substituting for tetrahedrally coordinated Si(4+). Development of chromium-doped forsterite laser may stimulate the generation of a new class of tunable solid state lasers based on tetravalent chromium as a laser active ion for the near-IR eyesafe spectral range. The criteria for the development of new Cr(4+)-based tunable solid-state laser crystals are discussed. We also present current research efforts to identify potential low field host crystals, such as silicates, titanites, and germanates, that may be doped with Cr(4+) as an active ion. These new laser materials are expected to cover the wavelength region from 1 - 2 microns, which may be of great technological importance.
A procedure for the kinetic colorimetric determination of serum cholinesterase activity.

Abstract A choline oxidase-peroxidase coupled enzyme procedure is proposed for the determination of cholinesterase activity in human serum. This system is not only kinetic and colorimetric but is also relatively quick and simple to perform. The initial comparisons suggest that this method correlates well with a commonly used propionylthiocholine-dinitrobis-(nitro-benzoic acid) technique. Large amounts of bilirubin in the sample appear to have only minor deleterious effects on the assay. Since there are only two reagents that may be premixed, the procedure appears to be amenable to automation. The use of a mixture of sodium 2-hydroxy-3,5-dichlorobenzenesulfonate and 4-aminoantipyrene in the peroxidase catalyzed indicator reaction provides for a marked increase in sensitivity over previously reported 4-aminoantipyrene-phenol systems. This augmented sensitivity provides for a relatively large reagent to sample ratio. In addition, the reagents lend themselves toward lyophilization or ‘dry-fill’.
An Appraisal of Research Literature Dealing with Loose and Conventional Dairy Cattle Housing: A Review

Summary This examination of research on dairy cattle housing has brought out the points for and against loose housing relative to conventional barns. On some farms loose housing may be a solution to problems of labor efficiency and building expansion. Loose housing, however, is not the solution for every operator, even though it appears to be a low-cost, efficient, functional housing unit. Selection of the type of barn must depend on the relative advantages and disadvantages of alternative barn systems in relation to particular farm situations. Conclusions evaluating the various phases of the loose and conventional housing question are presented either as a part of the research cited or immediately following each section of this paper.
Posterior longitudinal ligament ossification myelopathy and hypothyroidism

Two elderly white women with a long history of hypothyroidism and myelopathy showed ossification in posterior longitudinal ligament at their cervical spine. Case histories are presented and the reported association of PLLO with other conditions discussed.
The Reserve Capacity Model as a Framework for Understanding Psychosocial Factors in Health Disparities

Substantial research has identified a robust, linear association between socioeconomic status (SES) and health, across many different populations and outcomes. Among myriad influences, psychosocial factors may contribute to SES-related gradients in health. In the current manuscript, we describe the Reserve Capacity Model (Gallo & Matthews, 2003) as a potential framework through which to examine psychosocial pathways in health disparities. The model posits that SES is connected to health, in part through associations with stress and concomitant negative emotions, and their subsequent links with bio-behavioral functioning. In addition, low SES may predict enhanced emotional and physiological reactivity to stress due to a deficiency in resilient psychosocial resources (i.e. "reserve capacity") and limited opportunities to replenish resource reserves. In addition, resources might represent a direct mediational pathway from SES to health. We describe several studies in which we have examined various tenets of the Reserve Capacity Model, and comment on future research directions to better understand the roles of psychosocial variables in health disparities.
Designing irregular parallel algorithms with mutual exclusion and lock-free protocols

Irregular parallel algorithms pose a significant challenge for achieving high performance because of the difficulty predicting memory access patterns or execution paths. Within an irregular application, fine-grained synchronization is one technique for managing the coordination of work; but in practice the actual performance for irregular problems depends on the input, the access pattern to shared data structures, the relative speed of processors, and the hardware support of synchronization primitives. In this paper, we focus on lock-free and mutual exclusion protocols for handling fine-grained synchronization. Mutual exclusion and lock-free protocols have received a fair amount of attention in coordinating accesses to shared data structures from concurrent processes. Mutual exclusion offers a simple programming abstraction, while lock-free data structures provide better fault tolerance and eliminate problems associated with critical sections such as priority inversion and deadlock. These synchronization protocols, however, are seldom used in parallel algorithm designs, especially for algorithms under the SPMD paradigm, as their implementations are highly hardware dependent and their costs are hard to characterize. Using graph-theoretic algorithms for illustrative purposes, we show experimental results on two shared-memory multiprocessors, the IBM pSeries 570 and the Sun Enterprise 4500, that irregular parallel algorithms with efficient fine-grained synchronization may yield good performance.
Emerging interpersonal norms of text messaging in India and the United States

This study examines whether there are emerging interpersonal norms of text messaging—an etiquette (“textiquette”) of texting—that guide its use in India and the United States. One hundred and thirty-seven participants recorded multiple text messages sent and received in specially designed text logs. Each log secured data on the following dimensions: (1) the context in which a text was sent and received/read; (2) who each participant was with—and the reaction of this person(s)—when the participant sent or received/read a text message; and (3) what constitutes impolite text messaging behavior. Results reveal emerging interpersonal norms of text messaging in both countries that vary significantly across cultures on all three dimensions. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Metagenome Plasticity of the Bovine Abomasal Microbiota in Immune Animals in Response to Ostertagia Ostertagi Infection

Infections in cattle by the abomasal nematode Ostertagia ostertagi result in impaired gastrointestinal function. Six partially immune animals were developed using multiple drug-attenuated infections, and these animals displayed reduced worm burdens and a slightly elevated abomasal pH upon reinfection. In this study, we characterized the abomasal microbiota in response to reinfection using metagenomic tools. Compared to uninfected controls, infection did not induce a significant change in the microbial community composition in immune animals. 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic analysis identified 15 phyla in the bovine abomasal microbiota with Bacteroidetes (60.5%), Firmicutes (27.1%), Proteobacteria (7.2%), Spirochates (2.9%), and Fibrobacteres (1.5%) being the most predominant. The number of prokaryotic genera and operational taxonomic units (OTU) identified in the abomasal microbial community was 70.8±19.8 (mean ± SD) and 90.3±2.9, respectively. However, the core microbiome comprised of 32 genera and 72 OTU. Infection seemingly had a minimal impact on the abomasal microbial diversity at a genus level in immune animals. Proteins predicted from whole genome shotgun (WGS) DNA sequences were assigned to 5,408 Pfam and 3,381 COG families, demonstrating dazzling arrays of functional diversity in bovine abomasal microbial communities. However, none of COG functional classes were significantly impacted by infection. Our results demonstrate that immune animals may develop abilities to maintain proper stability of their abomasal microbial ecosystem. A minimal disruption in the bovine abomasal microbiota by reinfection may contribute equally to the restoration of gastric function in immune animals.
Calculation of Defect Properties of NiTi and FeTi

The energies and configurations of interstitials and vacancies in the B2 ordered compounds NiTi and FeTi were calculated using atomistic simulation. The stable configuration of a vacancy after the removal of an Ni atom was a vacant Ni site; similarly, the removal of an Fe atom in FeTi resulted in a vacant Fe site. Removal of a Ti atom in both compounds, however, resulted in a vacant Ni or Fe site and an adjacent antisite defect. The effective vacancy formation energies in NiTi and FeTi were calculated to be 1.48 and 1.07 eV, respectively. Interstitials in NiTi formed split {l angle}111{r angle} configurations consisting of a Ni-Ni dumbbell oriented in the {l angle}111{r angle} direction with one or two adjacent antisite defects. The Fe interstitial in FeTi had a similar configuration, except the dumbbell contained Fe atoms. The Ti interstitial in FeTi formed an {l angle}110{r angle} Fe-Fe dumbbell. 8 refs., 2 tabs.
Electrochemical Biosensing Using Amplification-by-Polymerization

A novel signal amplification strategy for electrochemical detection of DNA and proteins based on the amplification-by-polymerization concept is described. Specifically, a controlled radical polymerization reaction is triggered after the capture of target molecules on the electrode surface. Growth of long chain polymeric materials provides numerous sites for subsequent aminoferrocene coupling, which in turn significantly enhances electrochemical signal output. Activators generated electron transfer for atom transfer radical polymerization (AGET ATRP) is used in this study for its high efficiency in polymer grafting and better tolerance toward oxygen in air. 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) are examined to provide excess hydroxyl or epoxy groups for aminoferrocene coupling. A limit of detection of 15 pM and 0.07 ng/mL is demonstrated for DNA and ovalbumin, respectively. More than 7-fold signal enhancement in ovalbumin detection has been achieved comparing to the unamplified...
Intra- and interobserver error in craniometry: a cautionary tale.

This study investigates intra- and interobserver measurement error in craniometry. Data consists of 72 craniometric measurements taken on a series of 28 Sadlermuit Eskimo crania. Utermohle measured the series twice; Zegura measured it once. Statistical procedures used to demonstrate measurement imprecision include the mean difference, the method error statistic, two-way anova without replication, the t-test for paired comparisons, Fisher's distribution-free sign test, and the t-test for independent samples. The results indicate less intraobserver repeatability than expected as well as an alarming lack of interobserver reproducibility for many of these craniometric measurements. We hope these results will serve as a caution against the widespread belief that craniometric measurements are always produced with a high degree of precision by experienced craniometrists. In addition, these results suggest that investigators employing craniometric measurements to study population affinities, functional morphology, forensics, fossil primates, and human microevolution might profit from conducting a measurement error analysis as an important baseline for the interpretation of the biological significance of their results.
Confirmation of linkage of oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy to chromosome 14q11.2-q13

Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is a late-onset, autosomally dominant disorder characterized by progressive ptosis, dysphagia, and extremity weakness. Linkage of oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy to 14q11.2-q13 has been reported in a series of French Canadian families. Haplotype analysis in these data shows a single segregating disease chromosome, suggesting a founder effect in this population. We ascertained and sampled for linkage studies 5 multigenerational American families with oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy. Four of the 5 families have known French Canadian ancestry while the fifth is of English/Scottish origin. A peak multipoint lod score of 6.30 was obtained for the marker MYH7.1 in the families, confirming linkage to 14q11.2-q13. The English/Scottish family exhibited a different chromosomal haplotype for the oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy alleles than did the families of French Canadian origin. These data suggest that this family may represent a second, possibly independent mutation in this disorder.
Purinergic receptor modulation of LPS-stimulated signaling events and nitric oxide release in RAW 264.7 macrophages:

Purinergic receptors of the P2 class are cell surface receptors which are sensitive to extracellular adenine nucleotides, such as ATP and ADP. This class of receptors is divided into the P2Y family of G protein-coupled receptors and the P2X family of ligand-gated ion channels. The P2X receptors, seven of which have been cloned, are thought to possess two transmembrane domains and function as multimeric complexes. Numerous studies have suggested a role for P2 receptors in activation of macrophages by Gram-negative bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide; LPS). LPS is thought to exert its toxic effects, in large part, by inducing macrophages to release inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-1 (IL-1) and nitric oxide (NO). Although multiple signal transduction pathways are activated by LPS in macrophages, the proximal mechanisms by which LPS exerts these effects remain unclear. The current study examines the role of the P2X7/P2Z purinergic receptor in LPS signaling events ...
Subcutaneous emphysema after extraction of maxillary teeth: report of a case.

Inappropriate use of dental equipment that is powered by highly compressed air may directly lead to the formation of subcutaneous emphysema.
Nuclear magnetic resonance spectral study of 2-acetylpyridine4 N-alkylthiosemicarbazones and their cobalt(III) complexes

1H and13C n.m.r. spectra are reported for a series of 2-acetylpyridine4 N-alkylthiosemicarbazones in order to study the effect of increased size of the alkyl function on the ratio of isomers present in solution. Similarly, n.m.r. data for the bis(thiosemicarbazone)cobalt(III) complexes are included, as well as these complexes' ligand field parameters.
Ionic conductivity in a quantum lattice gas model with three-particle interactions

A system of mesoscopic ions with dominant three-particle interactions is modeled by a quantum lattice liquid on the planar kagome lattice. The two-parameter Hamiltonian contains localized attractive triplet interactions as potential energy and nearest neighbor hopping-type terms as kinetic energy. The dynamic ionic conductivity σ(ω) is theoretically investigated for 'weak hopping' via a quantum many-body perturbation expansion of the thermal (Matsubara) Green function (current-current correlation). A simple analytic continuation and mapping of the thermal Green function provide the temporal Fourier transform of the physical retarded Green function in the Kubo formula. Substituting pertinent exact solutions for static multi-particle correlations known from previous work, Arrhenius relations are revealed in zeroth-order approximation for the dc ionic conductivity σdc along special trajectories in density–temperature space. The Arrhenius plots directly yield static activation energies along the latter loci. Experimental possibilities relating to σdc are discussed in the presence of equilibrium aggregation.This article is part of 'Lattice models and integrability', a special issue of Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and Theoretical in honour of F Y Wu's 80th birthday.
Temporal production of the two Bacillus anthracis siderophores, petrobactin and bacillibactin.

Bacillus anthracis secretes two siderophores, petrobactin (PB) and bacillibactin (BB). These siderophores were temporally produced during germination and outgrowth of spores (the usual infectious form of B. anthracis) in low-iron medium. The siderophore PB was made first while BB secretion began several hours later. Spore outgrowth early in an infection may require PB, whereas delayed BB production suggests a role for BB in the later stages of the infection. Incubation of cultures (inoculated as vegetative cells) at 37°C, as compared to 2°C, increased PB production and decreased secretion of BB, suggesting that the production of PB and BB responded to the host temperature signal. The dual siderophores of B. anthracis may fulfill independent roles in the life cycle of B. anthracis.
Iron deficiency in one-year-old infants: comparison of results of a therapeutic trial in infants with anemia or low-normal hemoglobin values.

The purpose of this study was to determine the Hgb response to a therapeutic trial of iron in infants with anemia compared to those with low-normal hemoglobin values. Hgb was determined in 1,128 one-year-old infants. The 278 infants (25%) who had an Hgb anemic range (Hgb lownormal range (11.0 to 11.4 gm/dl), 28% had a ≥1.0 gm/dl Hgb response. Despite the lower rate of response in the low-normal group, almost half of the infants with a ≥1 gm/dl response would have been missed by using the generally accepted cutoff value of 11 gm/dl for a therapeutic trial. Because of the low cost and simplicity of a therapeutic trial, we favor including the low-normal Hgb group for a therapeutic trial of iron in order to avold missing iron-responsive individuals among groups of infants with a similarly high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia.
MASKED INFUNDIBULAR PULMONARY OBSTRUCTION IN VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT WITH PULMONARY HYPERTENSION.

Recent observations have suggested that infundibular pulmonary obstruction may exist in association with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary hypertension but not be apparent because of greater obstruction in the pulmonary arterial bed which "masks" the more proximal infundibular obstruction. Following the administration of the pulmonary vasodilator tolazoline to patients with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary hypertension, pullback tracings have revealed infundibular obstruction where none was apparent in control studies. An analysis of the catheterization findings in those patients with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary hypertension revealed 32 subjects who had received and responded to tolazoline. Twenty-seven of these patients had gradients after tolazoline ranging from 8 to 73 mm. Hg. The findings suggest that in the presence of pulmonary hypertension, infundibular obstruction is present from birth and continues to develop, becoming apparent or "unmasked" by virtue of a reduction...
Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species and Reduction of Ferric Chelates by Microsomes in the Presence of a Reconstituted System Containing Ethanol, NAD+ and Alcohol Dehydrogenase

Many of the toxic metabolic actions of ethanol on the liver have been ascribed to the enhanced cellular production of NADH, which arises as a consequence of the oxidation of ethanol by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). Experiments were conducted to evaluate whether NADH generated from a reconstituted system containing ethanol plus NAD+ plus ADH could interact with ferric chelates to promote microsomal lipid peroxidation and generation of a hydroxyl radical (OH)-like species. In the presence of the reconstituted system and iron, microsomes produced • OH as assessed by the oxidation of • OH scavenging agents. This oxidation was inhibited by catalase and competitive • OH scavengers but not by superoxide dismutase. The ADH-dependent microsomal production of • OH was effectively catalyzed by ferric-EDTA and -diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (-DTPA), but not by ferric-ATP or -citrate. However, all these ferric chelates were reduced by the microsomes in the presence of the reconstituted system. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was produced in the presence of ADH and appeared to be a limiting factor for the production of • OH. The reconstituted system also catalyzed microsomal lipid peroxidation, and the pattern of effectiveness of ferric chelates was opposite that of catalysis of • OH production. There was little effect by catalase, superoxide dismutase or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on the ADH-dependent microsomal lipid peroxidation. The reconstituted system was characterized with respect to dependence on NAD+ and ADH; ethanol could be replaced by other alcohols, which are substrates for ADH. Pyrazole, a potent inhibitor of ADH, blocked the ability of the reconstituted system to interact with iron and microsomes to produce reactive oxygen species. The overall pattern of response of the ADH-dependent reactions with respect to rates of reactions, catalytic effectiveness of ferric chelates and sensitivity to radical scavengers is similar to that found with a NADPH-generating system. In view of the effectiveness of NADH derived from the oxidation of ethanol by ADH in reducing ferric chelates and promoting microsomal generation of reactive species, increased availability of cellular NADH as a consequence of ethanol oxidation could contribute to the development of oxidative stress and play a role in the toxic actions of ethanol to the liver.
Enhanced free radical generation of FALS-associated Cu,Zn-SOD mutants.

Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) is an inherited disorder of motor neurons, which is associated with missense mutations in the Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD) gene. Mice from the G93A transgenic line were reported to develop a syndrome of FALS. The fact that the symptoms occurred against a background of normal mouse Cu,Zn-SOD activity suggests that dominant, gain-of-function mutations in SOD play a role in the pathogenesis of FALS. We investigated the nature of this gain-of-function of FALS mutants. We have previously reported that Cu,Zn-SOD has the free radical-generating function in addition to normal dismutation activity. These two enzymic activities were compared by using mutants (G93A and A4V) and the wild-type Cu,Zn-SOD prepared by recombinant method. Our results showed that the wild-type, G93A, and A4V enzymes have identical dismutation activity. However, the free radical-generating function of the G93A and A4V mutants, as measured by the spin trapping and EPR method, is enhanced relative to that of the wild-type enzyme (wild type G93A > A4V. The catalytic activity to generate free radicals is correlated to the clinical severity of the disorder induced by these mutant enzymes. Furthermore, we found that intact FALS mutants failed to enhance tyrosine nitration. Together our results indicate that the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis symptoms are not caused by the reduction of Cu,Zn-SOD dismutation activity with the mutant enzymes; rather, it is induced in part by enhancement of the free radical-generating function.
Can Electronic Performance Monitoring Be Fair? Exploring Relationships Among Monitoring Characteristics, Perceived Fairness, and Job Performance

With the increased use of technology in all areas of human resource management, many organizations are using electronic and computerized means for monitoring and assessing employee performance. We ...
Chiral Limit of Nuclear Physics

We study nuclear physics in the chiral limit (m{sub u}, m{sub d}=0) in which the pion mass vanishes. We find that the deuteron mass is changed little, but that P-wave nucleon-nucleon scattering volumes are infinite. This motivates an investigation of the possibilities that there could be a two-nucleon {sup 3}P{sub 0} bound state, and that the nuclear matter ground state is likely to be a condensed state of nucleons paired to those quantum numbers. However, the short distance repulsion in the nucleon-nucleon potential is not affected by the chiral limit and prevents such new chiral possibilities. Thus the chiral limit physics of nuclei is very similar to that of nature. Using the chiral limit to simplify QCD sum rule calculations of nuclear matter properties seems to be a reasonable approximation. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}