cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modulatory effects of norepinephrine, acting on alpha1 receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, on behavioral and neuroendocrine responses to acute immobilization stress

The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is a component of the limbic fear-anxiety circuit, and has also been implicated in regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axis. The CeA receives dense noradrenergic innervation, and is rich in expression of alpha(1)-adrenergic receptors. We hypothesized that norepinephrine (NE), acting on alpha(1) receptors in CeA, may modulate stress-induced anxiety-like behavioral responses and HPA activation. To investigate the role of alpha(1) adrenergic receptors in CeA on stress-induced behavioral reactivity, the alpha(1) antagonist benoxathian was microinjected bilaterally into CeA of male Sprague-Dawley rats, and anxiety-like behavioral responses to acute immobilization stress were measured on the Social Interaction (SI) test and on the Elevated Plus-maze (EPMZ). Benoxathian dose dependently blocked the reduction in SI time induced by immobilization stress, whereas beta-receptor antagonists had no effect, consistent with an absence of beta-receptors in CeA. By contrast, in separate experiments, benoxathian had no effect on stress-induced reduction in open-arm exploratory behavior on the EPMZ, nor on stress-induced plasma ACTH secretion. These results confirm that the SI test and EPMZ measure different aspects of behavioral stress reactivity that can be modulated independently, and likewise, that noradrenergic modulation of behavioral stress reactivity can occur independently of modulation of the HPA axis.
Lipid peroxidation products mediate the formation of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine in DNA

Abstract Membrane lipid peroxidation processes yield products that may react with DNA to cause oxidative modifications. We have investigated this possibility and have found that calf thymus DNA exposed to autoxidized lipids causes the formation of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG). 8-OH-dG formation in DNA was measured using high-pressure liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Methyl linolenate oxidized for different lengths of time was exposed to DNA. The amount of 8-OH-dG formed in DNA was proportional to the amount of lipid peroxidation as measured by the thiobarbituric reactive substances present. The formation of 8-OH-dG in DNA by autooxidized methyl linolenate was dependent on the presence of the transition metal ions Cu or Fe and was inhibited by various scavengers, including superoxide dismutase and catalase. This implicates the involvement of oxygen free radicals in the process. Liposomes formed from phosphatidylcholine (82%) and methyl arachidonate (18%) were peroxidized for different lengths of time and then exposed to DNA, 8-OH-dG was formed in DNA by exposure to Cu(II) and peroxidized liposomes. Under these conditions, Fe(III) was slightly less effective than Cu(II) in mediating 8-OH-dG formation. These observations clearly show that 8-OH-dG formation in DNA may result from processes that may occur during intracellular lipid peroxidation.
On the electronic current flowing when an n-type AIII Bv semiconductor is dissolved

Abstract On anodic dissolution of n-GaAs and n-GaP in an oxidizing electrolyte solution electronic injection currents into the conduction band were measured externally. They varied with the oxidizing agent, and above all with the pH value of the solution. The electron current rose on adsorption of Ru or te ions, showing that the injected electrons are partly thermally generated. Factors favouring an increase in electron currents also favour an increased surface state density as determined by our C-U measurements.
Smooth muscle cells improve endothelial cell retention on polytetrafluoroethylene grafts in vivo.

Abstract Objective We investigated the influence of smooth muscle cells (SMC) on endothelial cell (EC) retention on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts and the effect of SMC seeding on intimal hyperplasia in vivo in a rabbit model. Methods Fibronectin-coated PTFE grafts (4 mm diameter) were seeded with either EC alone, SMC alone, or SMC followed 24 hours later by EC. The grafts were connected to an extracorporal aortic shunt for 1 hour or were individually implanted for 1, 30, and 100 days into the infrarenal aorta as an end-to-side bypass graft. The number of retained cells was compared at 1 hour and at 1 day after implantation. Neointimal thickness was measured 30 and 100 days after implantation. Results After 1-hour exposure to blood flow, EC retention rate was greater ( P P P = .09) from EC-seeded grafts (79 ± 48 μm; n=3) after 100-day implantation. Conclusion EC retention on PTFE grafts in vivo is improved if seeded over a layer of SMC. Further studies are needed to determine whether overlying EC modulate proliferation of underlying SMC.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) practitioners’ readiness for tobacco intervention training: Development and psychometric properties of a new measure

Abstract Objective Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) practitioners are an important potential resource for expanding the use of tobacco cessation brief interventions. Training these practitioners to conduct such interventions has been hampered, however, by a lack of tools for assessing the practitioners’ tobacco intervention behaviors and interest, and openness to non-CAM tobacco cessation aids (e.g., medications, quitlines). Recognizing this, we developed a new measure: the CAM Readiness for Training in Tobacco Intervention (CAM RTTI) questionnaire. Methods Together with a key informant group of CAM experts, we constructed 18 questionnaire items. For structured review and face validity assessment, the items were submitted to a national panel of CAM practitioners and tobacco cessation experts, and revised according to their comments. The items were then administered to a sample of 97 CAM practitioners (30 chiropractors, 26 licensed acupuncturists, 41 licensed massage therapists). Exploratory factor analysis and internal reliability tests were used to examine the items’ psychometric properties. Results Three underlying factors were indicated: current tobacco cessation activity, motivation/confidence regarding the conduct of tobacco cessation activity, and comfort providing patients/clients with information about non-CAM tobacco interventions. Acceptable internal validity was indicated for the factor-based subscales (Cronbach's alphas ranged .71–.81). Responses differed substantially across the factors/subscales. The practitioners indicated little current engagement in tobacco-cessation activities (factor 1), but were well-motivated to begin doing so (factor 2). Level of comfort with non-CAM tobacco interventions (factor 3) had pronounced dispersion from negative to positive. Conclusions CAM RTTI assessed three factors that can be critical to implementing effective tobacco intervention trainings for a CAM practitioner: (1) current tobacco intervention activity, (2) motivation/confidence and (3) comfort with non-CAM interventions. Moreover, it assessed these factors using language appropriate to CAM practitioners, providing the first measure, to our knowledge, specific to the development of tobacco intervention training for this group.
Child Care Preferences of Foreign-Born Immigrant Groups in California

This study using California Health Interview Survey 2005 Child Survey data presents disparities among three major immigrant groups' child care preferences. Asian immigrant families used a grandparent or a relative care and a preschool more than Latino and European immigrant families. Latino immigrant families used child care from a nonfamily member in the provider's home and Head Start more than Asian and European immigrant families. To understand the predictors of time spent in child care by California's immigrant children, a multiple regression analysis was run. Being a child from an Asian immigrant family, child's age, being a girl, and being a child from a single mother-headed immigrant family emerged as predictors explaining 17.2% of the variance in the amount of time spent in child care. Variations in child care usage among immigrant groups warrant concern and suggest a need for culturally sensitive child care programs for immigrants.
The Application of Saturable Magnetics in the EMP Protection of High Power, RF Transmitters

A unique and innovative all solid state, self recovery HESA design concept was developed for Kilowatt RMS level, RF transmitters using existing metal oxide varistor and saturable magnetic device technologies. This design concept, which is based on a two element hybrid protective device approach, has the dual capability to provide high voltage/fast rise time and long pulse/high current threat protection. The first element provides delay-free protection against the fast rise time HEMP threat and was implemented using metal oxide varistor technology which General Electric developed. The second element provides the high energy relief for the first element, and was implemented using saturable magnetics. Detailed magnetic device and varistor models and analytical design equations were derived and extensive material characteristics were experimentally obtained in support of this development. Much of this work involved the generation of singular information which was required to support the solutions to the design problems encountered in meeting the design challenge using existing materials technology. This paper addresses the saturable magnetics portion of this work.
Luminance, disparity, and range statistics in 3D natural scenes

Range maps have been actively studied in the last few years in the context of depth perception in natural scenes. With the availability of co-registered luminance information, we have the ability to examine and model the statistical relationships between luminance, range and disparity. In this study, we find that a onesided generalized gaussian distribution closely fits the prior of the range gradient. This finding sheds new light on statistical modeling of 2D and 3D image features in natural scenes.
Diel variation of nitrogen fixation in Lake Valencia, Venezuela

During 1981 the authors examined the diel variations of nitrogen fixation in Lake Valencia, Venezuela. Four species of heterocyst-bearing blue-green algae were common but subdominant in the phytoplankton. In samples taken from and incubated at 0.5 m, the rate of nitrogen fixation per unit volume of water was lowest at night, increased from dawn until early afternoon, and then diminished between late afternoon and the first hour of darkness. This pattern was caused partly by diel changes in light intensity and partly by diel migrations of heterocystous blue-green algae. The heterocyst-specific nitrogen fixation rates at 0.5 m were much less variable than the nitrogen fixation rates per unit volume of water. Heterocyst-specific rates rose rapidly in early morning and fell slowly in the evening, but were almost constant over much of the day. Heterocyst-specific nitrogen fixation rates were very close to those predicted by a model based on the light dependency of nitrogen fixation.
The connection between chromatin motion on the 100 nm length scale and core histone dynamics in live XTC-2 cells and isolated nuclei.

The diffusive motion of DNA-containing chromatin in live cells and isolated nuclei is investigated using a two-photon standing wave fluorescence photobleaching experiment with 100 nm spatial resolution. The chromatin is labeled using the minor groove binding dye Hoechst 33342. In live cells, the mean diffusion rate is 5 × 10−4 μm2/s, with considerable cell-to-cell variation. This diffusion is highly constrained and cannot be observed in a standard, single beam fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiment. To determine the chemical origin of the diffusion, we study motion in isolated nuclei and vary the strength of the histone-DNA interactions by changing the ionic strength and using chemical and photocross-linking experiments. At higher NaCl concentrations, we see increased chromatin diffusion as the histone-DNA interaction is weakened due to ionic screening, whereas photocross-linking the core histones to the DNA results in a complete absence of diffusive motion. These trends are consistent with the 100 nm scale motion being correlated with the interactions of histone proteins with the DNA. If chromatin diffusion is connected to the nucleosomal dynamics on much smaller length scales, this may provide a way to assay biochemical activity in vivo based on larger scale macromolecular dynamics observed via fluorescence microscopy.
Evidence of the Participation of Remote Residues in the Catalytic Activity of Co-Type Nitrile Hydratase from Pseudomonas putida

Active sites may be regarded as layers of residues, whereby the residues that interact directly with substrate also interact with residues in a second shell and these in turn interact with residues in a third shell. These residues in the second and third layers may have distinct roles in maintaining the essential chemical properties of the first-shell catalytic residues, particularly their spatial arrangement relative to the substrate binding pocket, and their electrostatic and dynamic properties. The extent to which these remote residues participate in catalysis and precisely how they affect first-shell residues remains unexplored. To improve our understanding of the roles of second- and third-shell residues in catalysis, we used THEMATICS to identify residues in the second and third shells of the Co-type nitrile hydratase from Pseudomonas putida (ppNHase) that may be important for catalysis. Five of these predicted residues, and three additional, conserved residues that were not predicted, have been con...
Aorto-Coronary Vein Fistula: A Complication of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

We report two cases of the inadvertent insertion of a saphenous vein bypass graft into the anterior cardiac vein creating an aortocoronary vein fistula. The clinical recognition, evaluation, and management are discussed. Suggestions on surgical technique to help minimize or eliminate this potential complication daring saphenous vein bypass surgery are proposed.
Using the quadratic Box-Cox for flexible functional form selection and unconditional variance computation

A quadratic Box-Cox methodology is presented for choice of flexible functional form that includes consistent computation of variance estimates. Empirical viability of the procedure is investigated by specifying a dual profit function using highly aggregated U.S. agricultural data. Conditional and unconditional variance estimates for the parameters are compared and contrasted. Like-lihood ratio tests are utilized to discriminate among the generalized Leontief, normalized quadratic, translog, and square-rooted quadratic functional forms. Statistical results indicate that the squarerooted quadratic is the preferred choice of functional form for these data, followed by the normalized quadratic.
miRiad roles for the miR-17-92 cluster in development and disease

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) encoded by the miR-17-92 cluster and its paralogs are known to act as oncogenes. Expression of these miRNAs promotes cell proliferation, suppresses apoptosis of cancer cells, and induces tumor angiogenesis. New work reveals essential functions for these miRNAs not only in tumor formation but also during normal development of the heart, lungs, and immune system.
Contrast Guided Two-Dimensional Echocardiography for Needle Localization During Pericardiocentesis: A Case Report

The authors present a case of pericardial effusion that was percutaneously drained using agitated saline for echocardiographic contrast guidance. This technique can safely confirm the location of a pericardiocentesis needle in the pericardial space prior to tract dilation and insertion of the pericardial drainage catheter. In this instance, this technique prevented the inadvertent placement of the pericardiocentesis catheter in the right ventricle.
Voice authentication using short phrases: Examining accuracy, security and privacy issues

This paper examines a novel security model for voice biometrics that decomposes the overall problem into bits of “biometric identity security,” bits of “knowledge security,” and bits of “traditional encryption security.” This is the first paper to examine balancing security gained from text-dependent and text-independent voice biometrics under this model. Our formulation allows for text-dependent voice biometrics to address both what you know and who you are. A text-independent component is added to defeat replay attacks. Further, we experimentally examine an extension of the recently introduced Vaulted Voice Verification protocol and the security tradeoffs of adding these elements. We show that by mixing text-dependent with text-independent voice verification and by expanding the challenge-response protocol, Vaulted Voice Verification can preserve privacy while addressing the problematic issues of voice as a remote/mobile biometric identifier. The resulting model supports both authentication and key release with the matching taking place client side, where a mobile device may be used. This novel security model addresses a real and crucial problem: that of security on a mobile device.
Can scratch tests give fracture toughness

Abstract Recently Akono and Ulm [1] and Akono et al. [2] , employing the linear elastic fracture mechanics framework, proposed that scratch tests could be used for determining fracture toughness. They applied the proposal to cement paste and sandstone, among other materials. This study shows that such a claim is in general not valid for a quasibrittle material like rock using the method they proposed. Firstly, it is demonstrated that rock scratch test data are well described by Bažant’s simple size effect law, which immediately points to the fact that linear elastic fracture mechanics is only applicable asymptotically when depth of cut is fairly deep. Secondly, their proposal requires cracks induced by cuts to be horizontal, and this is shown not necessarily true both from experiments and from FEM analysis. Finally, an interpretation of the data contradicts the rationale that was the basis of the original claim of determining the fracture toughness.
Temperature dependence of polymer/fullerene organic solar cells

Abstract The temperature dependence of bulk heterojunction organic solar cells fabricated from poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) was studied in detail. Individual materials as well as blends and solar cell devices were examined. Light absorption, photoluminescence, quantum efficiency, total efficiency, and current–voltage characteristics were studied from temperatures −10 to 140 °C. A method and apparatus for testing these parameters at various temperatures is described. Parameters were measured for both unannealed and annealed samples to give insight into the annealing process. It was found that absorption and photoluminescence of devices shift both position and intensity with varying temperatures. Quantum efficiency and total efficiency were monitored as they increased with annealing. Once annealed, device efficiency peaked at temperatures from 10 to 60 °C because of competing temperature dependent effects of the materials. The temperature dependence study provides valuable information on device properties and thermal annealing.
Effect of Properties of Various Activated-Carbon Supports and Supported Fe−Mo−Cu−K Catalysts on Metal Precursor Distribution, Metal Reduction, and Fischer−Tropsch Synthesis

The physical and surface chemistry properties of four activated carbons (ACs) have been studied, and the effects of these properties on the distribution and reduction of metal precursors of Fischer−Tropsch (FT) catalysts have been noted. The four ACs used have been derived from peat, generic wood, pecan, and walnut. The catalysts used are Fe with Mo−Cu−K additives, supported on the various ACs, successfully used earlier for selective production of C1−C34 hydrocarbons. Characterization techniques used include Brunauer−Emmett−Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), surface pH, temperature-programmed desorption−mass spectrometry (TPD−MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and temperature-programmed reduction (TPR). The BET and SEM results show that the four ACs have similar overall pore-size distributions qualitatively. All ACs contain 75−94% micropores. The four ACs differ considerably in their surface morphology, surface area, and amounts of micro-, mes...
MMPI differences among patients with depression, panic, and mixed panic and depression: A cluster analytic approach

Abstract The MMPIs provided by 69 subjects diagnosed as suffering from panic, depression, or mixed panic and depression were cluster analyzed. Four clusters emerged. Both the likelihood of belonging to any cluster and specific cluster assignment were associated with diagnosis. The MMPIs of those with pure panic or depression were more likely to be assigned to one of the four clusters than those with both panic and depression. Patients with depression were most likely to fall into a cluster characterized by elevations on scales 2 and 7, while those with panic were more likely to fall into a cluster characterized by elevations on scales 1 and 3. Those with both panic and depression produced MMPIs that were more heterogeneous, but also had more clinical scales with T scores greater than 70, an indication of greater disturbance. The findings suggest that diagnostically differentiated groups differ in psychological correlates as well as in symptom complexes.
Liquid chromatographic method for the separation and quantification of prominent flavonoid aglycones

Many beneficial health effects have been attributed to flavonoids, which are prevalent in plant-based foods. The literature is replete with chromatographic systems which are capable of measuring flavonoid content across one, two, and even three of the five common subclasses of flavonoids found in foods. However many foods and mixed diets, in particular, contain members of all five subclasses of flavonoids. We have developed an HPLC system for the separation and quantification of seventeen flavonoids, as their aglycones, which represent all five subclasses and are expected to be prominent in commonly consumed foods. Representative foods with significant concentrations of flavonoids from each of these subclasses were analyzed employing the new system.
Purification and partial characterization of protein 35/7.7 a cytosol protein that is abundant in rapidly growing hepatomas.

Abstract Protein 35 7.7 is an abundant cytosol protein of Morris hepatoma 3924A and Novikoff hepatoma which was not found in normal liver. Protein 35 7.7 was isolated from the cytosol of Novikoff hepatoma ascites cells by ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE-cellulose chroma tography. It migrated as a single major spot on two-dimensional isoelectric focusing-SDS polyacrylamide gels. The N-terminal hexapeptide is Val-Asx-Pro-Thr-Val-Phe and its carboxyl-terminal amino acid is phenylalanine.
Distribution and initiation of seizure activity in a rat brain with subcortical band heterotopia.

Summary: Purpose: Misplaced (heterotopic) cortical neurons are a common feature of developmental epilepsies. To better understand seizure disorders associated with cortical heterotopia, the sites of aberrant discharge activity were investigated in vivo and in vitro in a seizure-prone mutant rat (tish) exhibiting subcortical band heterotopia. Methods: Depth electrode recordings and postmortem assessment of regional c-fos mRNA levels were used to characterize the distribution of aberrant discharge activity during spontaneous seizures in vivo. Electrophysiologic recordings of spontaneous and evoked activity also were performed by using in vitro brain slices from the tish rat treated with proconvulsant drugs (penicillin and 4-aminopyridine). Results: Depth electrode recordings demonstrate that seizure activity begins almost simultaneously in the normotopic and heterotopic areas of the tish neocortex. Spontaneous seizures induce c-fos mRNA in normotopic and heterotopic neocortical areas, and limbic regions. The threshold concentrations of proconvulsant drugs for inducing epileptiform spiking were similar in the normotopic and heterotopic areas of tish brain slices. Manipulations that blocked communication between the normotopic and heterotopic areas of the cortex inhibited spiking in the heterotopic, but not the normotopic, area of the cortex. Conclusions: These findings indicate that aberrant discharge activity occurs in normotopic and heterotopic areas of the neocortex, and in certain limbic regions during spontaneous seizures in the tish rat. Normotopic neurons are more prone to exhibit epileptiform activity than are heterotopic neurons in the tish cortex, and heterotopic neurons are recruited into spiking by activity initiated in normotopic neurons. The findings indicate that seizures in the tish brain primarily involve telencephalic structures, and suggest that normotopic neurons are responsible for initiating seizures in the dysplastic neocortex.
One-dimensional sensor modulation transfer function, revisited

In this theoretical study the modulation transfer function (MTF) of an ideal one-dimensional image sensor array is calculated using computer simulations and simple mathematical concepts. These calculations take into account the finite size of the pixels, the discrete and periodic arrangement of the pixels, and the effect of the phase shift between the pixel array and the signal incident on the imager. It is found that the actual MTF of the sensor is more feature rich than implied by the Sinc function. In particular, when imaging periodic patterns on the sensor, for example to measure the resolution, phase shift between the incident pattern and the sensor and the spatial frequency can dramatically affect the results. An exact formula for the phase averaged MTF is derived.
Evidence for destruction of PCBs by the OH radical in urban atmospheres.

Abstract Evidence for reaction of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners with the hydroxyl (OH) radical in the troposphere was observed in diurnal variations in ambient gas-phase PCB concentrations at three urban sampling sites located in the Chicago, IL; Baltimore, MD; and Jersey City, NJ urban/industrial areas. The magnitude of the depletion of individual PCB congeners decreased by about 10–20% for each additional chlorine substituent, reflecting slower reaction rates for higher MW congeners with the OH radical. Octa- and nonachlorobiphenyls, which are largely unreactive with the OH radical, were used as tracers to investigate the effects of dilution on diurnal variation. The environmental rate constants for disappearance of the PCBs range from about 1.0 day−1 for trichlorobiphenyls to about 0.3 day−1 for hexachlorobiphenyls. Assuming a OH radical concentration of 3×106 molecules cm−3, the second-order rate constants for reaction of specific congeners with the OH radical are consistent with laboratory measurements. More importantly, the relative reactivity of PCB homologues agrees well with the relationship predicted by other researchers from laboratory measurements, suggesting that losses of PCBs during daytime tropospheric transport are due at least in part to reactions with the OH radical.
Why Are Retirement Benefits in the United States So Complicated?: An Overview of How We Got Here

Most of us focus on one or a few retirement income programs and a single retiree health benefit plan at a time, as benefit professionals, policy makers, current or future recipients of these benefits or scholars. We seldom step back and view the larger picture. We often see the trees and miss the forest. And in doing so, we also miss the extraordinary complexity and interrelatedness of the numerous laws and programs that comprise the U.S. retirement benefit structure. This article is an overview of retirement benefit laws and programs. It examines their origins, evolution and, to some extent, their current requirements. It portrays the collage of retirement benefits that now exists in an effort to provide perspective.
Immunomodulation of caprine lentiviral infection by interleukin-16

Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is a proinflammatory cytokine produced by a variety of cells including lymphocytes, macrophages, mast cells, and eosinophils. We have shown in our previous studies increased expression of IL-16 mRNA and protein in caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus (CAEV)-infected goats blood. In this study, we determined the immunomodulatory effects of IL-16 in vitro using cells derived from CAEV infected and uninfected goats. Human recombinant IL-16 (rhIL-16) significantly increased chemotaxis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of both control and CAEV-infected goats. Pretreatment of PBMC with anti-goat CD4 monoclonal antibody inhibited IL-16-induced chemotaxis of PBMC of control and infected goats suggesting that IL-16 exerts its action in goats primarily by binding to CD4. The CAEV proviral DNA was less in caprine monocytes treated with rhIL-16 infected in vitro with CAEV. These data suggest inhibitory effect of IL-16 on viral integration. Flow cytometric studies indicated a trend toward IL-16-induced increased expression of lymphocyte activation markers. Combined with our previously reported data, these experiments suggest that increased IL-16 expression during CAEV infection may inhibit viral integration.
Spinal pharmacology of tactile allodynia in diabetic rats

1. Rats develop tactile allodynia to stimulation of the plantar surface of the hindpaw with von Frey filaments within days of the onset of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. This is prevented by insulin and alleviated by systemic lignocaine, but the aetiology is unknown. 2. Using indwelling lumbar intrathecal catheters to deliver pharmacological agents, we have investigated whether tactile allodynia in streptozotocin-diabetic rats is dependent on mechanisms associated with spinal sensitization, by assessing the efficacy of agents that inhibit specific components of spinal nociceptive processing. 3. Dose-dependent inhibition of tactile allodynia in diabetic rats was noted with the N-type calcium channel antagonist SNX 239, the alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist dexmedetomidine, the mu-opioid receptor agonist morphine, the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist AP5 and the non-NMDA receptor antagonist NBQX. 4. No effect on tactile allodynia was noted after intrathecal administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor ketorolac, the L-type calcium channel inhibitor diltiazem or any vehicle. 5. These data suggest that the tactile allodynia of diabetic rats involves spinal glutamatergic pathways but is not associated with spinal release of nitric oxide or prostaglandins.
Managing Foliar Diseases of Processing Sweet Corn in New York with Strobilurin Fungicides.

ABSTRACT Processing sweet corn (Zea mays) growers in New York are more concerned about the cost effectiveness of fungicide use against foliar fungal diseases (common rust and Northern corn leaf blight) and less about whether such sprays will reduce disease intensity. To address this concern, field trials were done in 2006 and 2007 with three processing sweet corn hybrids (Jubilee, Bold, and GH 9597) that differed in susceptibility to common rust and Northern corn leaf blight, and two strobilurin fungicides (azoxystrobin and pyraclostrobin). Single strobilurin applications were applied in response to foliar disease severity thresholds of 1, 10, and 20%. Single fungicide applications did reduce foliar disease severities. Applications were most cost effective when made in response to the 1 and 10% foliar severity thresholds, and generally only in the susceptible hybrid Bold. Spraying at the 20% severity threshold did reduce final foliar disease severity but was not cost effective. Azoxystrobin and pyraclostr...
Potential effects on clinical management of treatment algorithms on the basis of apolipoprotein-B/A-1 and total/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratios.

Background Apolipoprotein-B/A-1 (apoB/A-R) and total/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratios (TC/HDL-R) outperform non−high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (non-HDL-C) suggested by Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III guidelines for predicting cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. Objective To evaluate the potential effects that implementing our proposed apoB/A-R and TC/HDL-R treatment algorithms would have on clinical management. Methods We performed a chart review of all patients referred to the University of Michigan Lipid Clinic from January 2004 to June 2010. ATP III guidelines, including Framingham Risk Scores, were used to determine whether patients met non-HDL-C goals upon referral. Next, we evaluated whether subsequent management would differ if algorithms based upon potential apoB/A-R or TC/HDL-R targets derived from the literature were followed. Results Among patients (n = 692), mean non-HDL-C, apoB/A-R, and TC/HDL-R were 192.2 ± 85.8 mg/dL, 0.92 ± 0.64, and 6.7 ± 8.0, respectively. Although moderately well correlated with apoB (r = 0.56, P P P 20%, cardiovascular disease or risk equivalent; n=307) meeting non-HDL-C goal ( Conclusions Most high- and many intermediate-risk patients at non-HDL-C goals would require more aggressive treatment to reach the suggested apoB/A-R or TC/HDL-R targets. Whether this strategy yields superior outcomes merits future investigation.
Phase and Dispersion of Cylindrical Surface Waves

Most theoretical and experimental work on surface waves does not take into account dispersion. When propagating along a flat planar half space, surface waves are known as Rayleigh waves and are not dispersive. When the radii of curvature are large, surface waves behave like Rayleigh waves. However, when the radii are small, dispersion becomes a contributing factor. Experimental measurements indicate that along with dispersion, there appears to be a strong phase shift effect as the wave propagates along the circumferential path of cylindrical specimens. The phase shift effect is observed even under conditions where dispersion is not detected. Classical theories provide the velocity-frequency equations, which represent the dispersion relationships, for surface waves. An alternate theoretical approach is discussed in this article that demonstrates the phase-dispersion relationship for cylindrical surface waves. Experimental data support the theoretical conclusions and indicate phase shift is directly related...
Self-pulsations, bistability, and intracavity quantum well absorber modulation of VCSELs

We have constructed a novel VCSEL structure in which a voltage biased quantum well absorber is embedded in the mirror stack. Several applications for these devices are demonstrated. The devices exhibit regimes of negative differential resistance in the absorber under varying laser bias conditions. By choosing the absorber bias conditions such that the operating load line intersects the absorber IV trace three times, the laser can be made to exhibit optical bistability. The magnitude of the bistability and consequent hysteresis loop can be controlled by adjusting the absorber bias. If the bias conditions are adjusted so that the load line is tangential to the portion of the absorber IV exhibiting negative differential resistance, then the device can be made to self-pulsate. Self-pulsations at frequencies as high as 2 GHz with 700 kHz rf linewidth FWHM (full-width at half-maximum) have been obtained using these devices. Furthermore, the self-pulsation frequency can be tuned over 700 MHz by adjusting the bias conditions, representing a substantial advance over existing self- pulsating VCSELs. We have also demonstrated a novel modulation scheme using these devices, in which the drive signal is applied to the bias voltage across the absorber. Theoretical analysis of the chirping mechanism leads us to expect that this technique will minimize the chirp at high modulation frequencies, while still providing substantial modulation depth and high speeds. We achieved a minus 3 dB bandwidth of 9 GHz; the bandwidth increases with the laser bias current at a rate of 7 GHz/(root)mA.
TIME OF RELEASE OF PITUITARY GONADOTROPIN INDUCED BY ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE RABBIT BRAIN.

The release of progestin into the ovarian vein has been employed as an indicator of the release of pituitary ovulating hormone in the rabbit. The principal progestin found in the ovarian venous effluent of this reflexly ovulating species is 20α-hydroxypregn- 4-en-3-one, which is readily measured by physicochemical methods. Following coitus or intravenous administration of luteinizing hormone, there is an immediate preovulatory synthesis and release of this progestational steroid. In sexually mature rabbits, bipolar concentric electrodes were implanted chronically in various parts of the hypothalamus and in the temporal lobes, and these sites were excited electrically under chloralosane anesthesia while blood was being collected from the ovarian vein. Electrical excitation of the posterior median eminence and basal tuberal region of the hypothalamus or the medial amygdala at parameters which subsequently induced ovulation usually produced an immediate increase in ovarian progestin output which continued to...
Climate change: what future for small, vulnerable states?

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are not only among the smallest countries in the world, they are also among the most vulnerable. Prime amidst the challenges that result from such vulnerability and that constrain the sustainable development efforts of SIDS is climate change, which represents the most immediate threat to their future. Although SIDS are among the least responsible for climate change, they are the hardest hit by its effects. Impacts are already being experienced in terms of environmental degradation, loss of infrastructure, increasing health risks, economic stress and national security, all of which contribute to increasing poverty levels and diminishing the quality of life. The objective of this paper is to shed new light on the complex relationship between SIDS and climate change, with a view to better understanding the current vulnerabilities, future projections and possible impacts, as well as to outline proposed courses of action. In order to achieve its objective, this paper will ...
Same players, different game: how better rules make better politics

In this essay, I summarize a whole area of inquiry associated with constitutional political economy. I first try to outline the elements of political structure, the political rules that clearly influence the outcomes of the process. I look, briefly, at a range of specific structures that, taken together, will shape the constitution of any organized democratic polity. This constitution will, in its turn, influence the pattern of collective outcomes that may be observed. I argue that the disparate success of differing political communities in achieving objectives that seem to be commonly shared may be primarily due to the mix of elements in the basic structure of rules, and not to the differences as among the political players.
Structural gene regions of Rhodobacter sphaeroides involved in CO2 fixation.

From studies conducted in both our laboratory and by Gibson, Tabita and colleagues, as well as drawing on the recent studies with Alcaligenes eutrophus, we describe two genetic regions which have been identified on the chromosome of Rhodobacter sphaeroides which code for a number of enzymes involved in CO2 fixation. One region was found to contain the genes coding for fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase (fbpA), phosphoribulokinase (prkA), a 37 kDa polypeptide (cfxA), and form I ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (rbcL, S). These genes appear to be expressed in the same transcriptional direction and are tandomly arranged. A second, apparently unlinked region of the chromosome contains a duplicate (with respect to functionality of gene products) but not identical set of these same four genes. Although the gene order in both regions is apparently identical, there is approximately 4 kb of DNA separating the 3′-end of prkB and the beginning of cfxB. The specific genetic organizations and proposed roles of these two genetic regions are discussed.
Effects of organic and conventional production systems on quality and nutritional parameters of processing tomatoes

BACKGROUND:Theimpactoforganic andconventionalproductionsystemsonqualityandnutritionalparametersof fruitsand vegetables is still under discussion. The objective of this study is to determine whether the production system has a significant effect on the quality and nutritional content of one variety of processing tomatoes grown on a commercial scale by comparing three different growers for two production years. RESULTS: Conventional tomatoes appeared to be more mature at time of harvest as determined by visual inspection of color. Total and soluble solids were significantly higher and consistency was greater in organic tomatoes. Differences in nutrientcontentwere notstatisticallysignificantbetweenproduction systems.Glutamate,glutamine,andtyrosinelevelswere significantly higher in conventional tomatoes, as were total nitrogen and ammoniumconcentrations. CONCLUSION:Resultsfrom thisstudyshowthatnutritionalandqualityparametersvary greatlyby grower,production system, and year for the same tomato cultivar. Significantly higher average soluble solids content and consistency in organic tomatoes are especially important to the processing tomato industry. The apparent slower development of organic tomatoes may be responsible for many of the significant findings in this study and may explain some of the conflicting reports in previous literature. c � 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
R-mode factor analysis applied to uranium exploration in the Montrose quadrangle, Colorado

Abstract R-mode factor analysis is used to describe the relationships among 18 remotely sensed and geochemical data sets (variables) for the Montrose 1° × 2° quadrangle, Colorado, a region that covers 19 000 km 2 . The data sets contain reconnaissance-scale information and include Landsat imagery, airborne geophysical information (eU, eTh, K40, aeromagnetics), elevation, and hydrogeochemical and stream sediment analyses. The elements U, K, Dy, Hf, V, Th, Ca and Ba in sediments and U in waters were selected. The results of the factor analysis for the entire quadrangle are compared to the results for a 50 km × 50 km test area containing several known uranium occurrences. Four factors account for 70.0% of the total variance in the data. These are interpreted as a felsic factor, Landsat factor, economic or mineralization factor (in terms of uranium mineralization and potential mineralized areas), and a volcanic factor. Graphical representations (maps) of the raw data, factor approximations, residuals for each data set, and the four-factor model greatly aid interpretation of the analytic results. We find that data integration techniques and R-mode factor analysis can be used with some success in uranium resource appraisal.
Oxidation of beryllium in CO2 by autoradiographic techniques

Abstract Because of the proposed use of beryllium as a fuelcladding material in a CO2-cooled reactor, the compatibility of beryllium and CO2 at elevated temperatures is of interest. The reported breakaway or nonprotective oxidation of beryllium in CO2 under certain test conditions and the proposed relation of this phenomenon to carbon absorbed during the oxidation stimulated a brief study to determine the reaction products formed and their location. A limited number of tests have been run in 200 Torr pressure of C14O2 at temperatures between 593 and 815° C for times up to 500 h. The specimens were examined after test using metallography, autoradiography, and surface counting techniques. It was found that the reaction products of the beryllium with CO2 were BeO and Be2C. The reaction proceeded along preferred longitudinal directions which seemed to be influenced by the voids present in the as-received material. The reaction advanced more rapidly in the longitudinal than in the transverse direction. Three possible mechanisms have been proposed to account for the greater rate in the longitudinal direction based upon an excess concentration of vacancies in the oxide film from the voids, the segregation of impurity atoms around the voids, and the inability of the material to deform plastically in certain directions due to preferred orientations of the grains. It was found that the beryllium specimens increased in carbon content during exposure to CO2. The carbon was found to remain associated with the reaction product and did not diffuse into the beryllium.
Finding Optimized Conditions of Slit-Slat and Multislit-Slat Collimation for Breast Imaging

In order to develop a breast-imaging system for Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) using slit-slat and multislit-slat collimators, we searched for optimized geometric parameters of the collimators. For this study, we employed two independent metrics to validate each result: 1)Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) based on the Cramer-Rao lower Bound (CRB) and 2) contrast at the same noise level from an ensemble. We calculated SNR values using forward-projection data of an anthropomorphic digital phantom containing two lesions in the breast (one at the chest wall and the other at the center) with a simulated slit-slat collimator as a function of the collimator's geometric parameters. We also calculated contrast values from reconstructed images with noise. Based on the results from the slit-slat case, we investigated angular range, SNR, and contrast for the multislit-slat. We saw similar trends of the two metrics. One interesting property of the multislit-slat is that the imaging performance depends on the orientation of the field of view (FOV) of the side slits. When we compared the metric values for the slit-slat and multislit-slat, improvement was seen only when the lesion was in the FOV of the side slits. Therefore, tuning the parameters of the multislit-slat to optimally detect lesions at the chest wall might be a sensible option since the slit-slat already provides good image quality for center and superficial lesions.
Informed Consent for BRCA1 and BRCA2 Testing

While the cloning of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in 1994 and 1995 engendered great enthusiasm from cancer patients, their families and physicians, concerns about potential problems faced by those undergoing genetic testing were also evident. Although much can be learned from previous research on informed consent for testing and research for predictive genetic testing in diseases other than cancer, there are some specific issues related to cancer that make the questions more pressing, more difficult, and of larger social concern. Organizations such as the National Advisory Council for Human Genome Research, the American Society for Human Genetics, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the Task Force for Genetic Testing have presented recommendations about informed consent for cancer susceptibility testing. However, many unanswered questions remain concerning the informed consent process. This review provides background on informed consent, summarizes studies that have been conducted in the area of genetic testing, with a focus on testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2, and details recommendations for achieving informed consent for genetic testing for cancer susceptibility and research on cancer genetics.