cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
β-Endorphin in male rat reproductive organs

Abstract β-Endorphin and related peptides have been detected within the male rat reproductive system. The β-endorphin immunoreactivity of testis exhibits parallelism with synthetic human β-endorphin on serial dilution and coelutes with β-endorphin on Sephadex G-50 and reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography. Sephadex G-50 chromatography also indicates the presence of β-lipotropin. β-Endorphin concentrations in rat seminal vesicles and prostate were approximately 25% of that in testis.
The influence of prenatal tactile and vestibular stimulation on auditory and visual responsiveness in bobwhite quail: A matter of timing.

The fact that the sensory systems do not become functional at the same time during prenatal development raises the question of how experience in a given modality can influence functioning in other sensory modalities. The present study exposed groups of bobwhite quail embryos to augmented tactile and vestibular stimulation at times that either coincided with or followed the period of onset of function in the later-developing auditory and visual modalities. Differences in the timing of augmented prenatal stimulation led to different patterns of subsequent auditory and visual responsiveness following hatching. No effect on normal visual responsiveness to species-typical maternal cues was found when exposure to tactile and vestibular stimulation coincided with the emergence of visual function (Days 14–19), but when exposure took place after the onset of visual functioning (Days 17–22), chicks displayed enhanced responsiveness to the same maternal visual cues. When augmented tactile and vestibular stimulation coincided with the onset of auditory function (Days 9–14), embryos subsequently failed to learn a species-typical maternal call prior to hatching. However, when given exposure to the same type and amount of augmented stimulation following the onset of auditory function (Days 14–19), embryos did learn the maternal call. These findings demonstrate that augmented stimulation to earlier-emerging sensory modalities can either facilitate or interfere with perceptual responsiveness in later-developing modalities, depending on when that stimulation takes place. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 43: 71–81, 2003.
Localization of infectious virus and viral antigen in chick fibroblasts during successive stages of infection with Rous sarcoma virus.

Abstract The time of appearance and the localization of Rous sarcoma virus antigen were studied with fluorescent antibodies in chicken fibroblasts infected in vitro . After infection with a relatively high concentration of virus the antigen was detectable at 2 days along the borders of an occasional cell. By the third day groups of cells were seen with viral antigen at the cell membrane and within the cytoplasm. At least part of the viral antigen was shown to be at the outer surface of the cell membrane, since it was accessible to antibody even in unfixed cells and could be removed from intact cells with trypsin treatment. Furthermore, much of the infective virus associated with intact cells could be neutralized by antiserum. The transformation of the elongated fibroblast into the more rounded Rous sarcoma cell was accompanied by detachment of viral antigen from the cell membrane. A portion of the detached antigen remained a matrixlike substance around the cell. After the detachment of viral antigen, a high proportion of the cells began synthesizing large amounts of the antigen within the cytoplasm. In parallel with the studies of viral antigen, a number of infectivity measurements were made. Within the broad limits of these measurements, the time of onset of infective virus production and release and the number of cells actively engaged in production of infective virus agreed with the appearance and release of viral antigen.
A dye tracer reveals cross-shelf dispersion and interleaving on the Oregon shelf

[1] A fluorescent dye tracer was injected into the pycnocline on the Oregon shelf at a depth of 9–10 m. It spread rapidly cross-shelf as two distinct layers, one above the other in the water column, split by interleaving dye-free water. The vertical scale of these layers, and associated density steps, was 1–2 m, and the horizontal extent of interleaving exceeded 1.6 km after an inertial period. The upper dye layer was sharply peaked and embedded in a strong vertical density gradient. The lower layer was slab-like and associated with weak stratification. Both layers were inclined slightly in density space. It is proposed that internal wave-induced mixing and the lateral collapse of mixing patches were important mechanisms. Analogies can be drawn between these dye structures and frequently-observed thin planktonic layers. By approximating the dye dispersion as a Fickian process, estimated isopycnal and diapycnal eddy diffusivities of κx = 4.1 m2 s−1 and κz = 1.4 × 10−5 m2 s−1 are obtained.
Sulfur and temperature effects on the spatial distribution of reactions inside a lean NOx trap and resulting changes in global performance

Abstract We experimentally studied the influence of temperature and sulfur loading on the axial distribution of reactions inside a commercial lean NOx trap (LNT) catalyst to better understand the global performance trends. Our measurements were made on a monolith core, bench-flow reactor under cycling conditions (60-s lean/5-s rich) at 200, 325, and 400 °C with intra-catalyst and reactor-outlet gas speciation. Postmortem elemental and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) analyses of the catalyst also supplemented our gas species measurements. For the unsulfated catalyst, the NOx storage/reduction (NSR) reactions were localized in the front (upstream) portion of the monolith, whereas oxygen storage/reduction reactions were distributed more evenly along the entire catalyst length. As a result, two axially distinct reaction zones were developed inside the working catalyst: an upstream “NSR zone” where both NOx and oxygen storage/reduction took place and a downstream oxygen storage capacity (OSC)-only zone where the NSR reactions did not penetrate. The NSR zone involved less than half the LNT at 325 and 400 °C, but it included almost the entire length at 200 °C. Sulfation poisoned both the NSR and OSC reactions beginning at the catalyst upstream edge, with the NSR degradation occurring more rapidly and distinctly than the OSC. As sulfation proceeded, a third zone (the sulfated zone) developed and the NSR zone moved downstream, with a concomitant decrease in both the OSC-only zone and global NOx conversion. The sulfation impact on NOx conversion was greatest at 200 °C, when the NSR zone was largest. Ammonia selectivity increased with sulfation, which we attributed to a shortened OSC-only zone and resultantly reduced consumption of NH3, slipping from the NSR zone, by downstream OSC. Lower temperatures also increased NH3 selectivity. Nitrous oxide selectivity also increased with decreasing temperature but showed little dependence on sulfation. We proposed explanations for these trends in NH3 and N2O selectivity based on shifts in competing reaction rates in the three zones.
CT contrast extravasation in the upper extremity: Strategies for management

Abstract Introduction Extravasation of CT scan contrast media into upper extremity subcutaneous tissue is a relatively frequent complication of injection. Potential sequelae of extravasation include compartment syndrome, skin sloughing, and necrosis. Many institutions institute protocols requiring inpatient plastic surgery consultations immediately following extravasation injury to the upper extremity. We hypothesize that conversion to non-ionic contrast media for contrast CT studies has greatly reduced the incidence of severe extravasation injuries, and may alleviate the need for routine hand surgery consultations. Methods Records from 102 consecutive CT contrast media extravasation injuries were identified. Data acquired from a single institution included type and amount of contrast extravasated, anatomic location, post-procedural clinical symptoms, whether consult was obtained, and final recommendations and outcome. Results In 102 consecutive cases, immediate surgical therapy was necessary in 0. Non-ionic medium was used in 94% of these cases, and ionic dye was used in 6%. Extravasation of less than 100cc occurred in 90%, and only 10% were greater. Plastic surgery consultation was immediately obtained in 42% of cases. Factors prompting consultation included extravasation >30cc, and the presence of erythema or induration. Trends for consultation remained without discernable pattern when patients were stratified by age, amount of extravasate, or anatomic location. Conservative management was recommended in all cases. This included elevation of the extremity, frequent pulse and sensation exams, local message, and temporary splinting. There were no secondary complications requiring surgical intervention. Conclusions Extravasation of non-ionic CT contrast media appears to be innocuous and can be treated with conservative therapy. Plastic surgery consultation should be obtained when there are obvious signs of skin and soft tissue compromise or symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Flow Rate-Pressure Drop Relation in Coronary Angioplasty: Catheter Obstruction Effect

Quantitative methods to measure the hemodynamic consequences of various endovascular interventions including balloon angioplasty are limited. Catheters measuring translesional pressure drops during balloon angioplasty procedures can cause flow blockage and thus inaccurate estimates of pre- and post-intervention flow rates. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of the presence and size of an angioplasty catheter on measured mean pressure gradients across human coronary artery stenoses. Analytical flow modeling and in vitro experimental evidence, coupled with angiographic data on the dimensions and shape of stenotic vessel segments before and after angioplasty, indicated significant flow blockage effects with the catheter present.
Interaction of Anticancer Drugs with Hepatic Monooxygenase Enzymes

(1989). Interaction of Anticancer Drugs with Hepatic Monooxygenase Enzymes. Drug Metabolism Reviews: Vol. 20, No. 2-4, pp. 395-439.
Living Skin Equivalents for the Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Foot ulceration remains the leading diabetic complication requiring hospitalization (1). Treatment of the diabetic foot ulcer is often a complex process that involves a multidisciplinary approach. Despite best efforts, failure to heal a diabetic foot ulcer can lead to amputation (2). As the incidence of diabetes in the general population is expected to rise, the prevalence of ulcerations and amputations will follow. The resulting cost to society can be measured in direct costs attributed to treatment, as well as indirect costs in lost productivity. The total cost of diabetic foot ulcerations in the United States has been estimated to approach $4 billion annually, as extrapolated from the costs of ulcer care and amputations (3). However the costs are measured, diabetic foot ulcerations represent a major public health challenge of growing proportions.
Effects of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I in experimental heart failure.

Summary These studies suggest that IGF-1 and GH have generally favourable effects on the failing heart. They further demonstrate the ability of the severely depressed and failing heart to respond to the trophic and inotropic effects of GH. There is, however, a need for a better understanding of the mechanism of the contractility effect, the character of the hypertrophy observed (whether it is a more favourable type than that secondary to mechanical overload) and the vascular actions, both trophic and vasodilatory. In addition, the degree to which high-dose ACE inhibition or angiotensin II receptor blockade may inhibit some of these effects requires further study. Finally, it is clear that additional experimental studies and clinical trials are needed to investigate the long-term effects of GH on morbidity and mortality in heart failure, as well as the possible side-effects and other actions, such as the potential of GH to enhance skeletal muscle size and strength.
Phantom Maps in the Stable Module Category

Abstract We study phantom maps in the stable module category StMod (kG), wherekis a field andGis a finite group. In this article we almost exclusively deal with maps out of countably generated modules. We show that the space Ph kG(M, N) of stabilized phantom maps M → N has an expression as a lim 1 ← space which allows some control on its vanishing. Then we present a situation where all maps are phantom and need not be trivial. We provide explicit details for such a particular situation. Finally we construct a universal phantom map. We use it to show that the composite of two phantom maps is trivial and to characterize the modules with no nontrivial outbound phantom maps.
Social and Academic Effects of Varying Types of Early Schooling Experiences.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of early educational experiences on the academic achievement and social skills of a sample of 91 inner city first‐grade students. The Integrated Assessment System (IAS) was used to measure children's achievement in mathematics and language arts, and the Social Skills rating system (Gresham & Elliott, 1990) was administered to measure children's social skills. Data analyses were conducted after controlling for first‐grade teachers' instructional practices and beliefs about developmentally appropriate practices. Children with prekindergarten experience had higher scores in the areas of mathematics (holistic and mathematical procedures) and language (response to reading). Similarly, prekindergarten experience was associated with higher social skills at the end of first‐grade. In addition, there were different patterns of academic achievement and social skills for students who attended first‐grade in the same school as the one where they received their earl...
Impairment of driving abilities in patients with supraventricular tachycardias.

Abstract From a practical viewpoint, the findings of this study are that, whereas syncope may occur and can result in impairment in driving ability, voluntary restriction of driving is uncommon. Additionally, no clinical or electrophysiologic characteristic other than a history of syncope was particularly helpful in identifying patients potentially at risk. Physicians encountering patients with supraventricular tachycardias and symptoms, such as syncope or presyncope, are encouraged to inquire specifically about impairment of driving abilities and participation in other activities where transient loss of consciousness is likely to result in harm to the patient and others. Fortunately, curative therapy with radiofrequency catheter ablation appears to be highly successful in preventing recurrence of symptoms in this group of patients.
A unified approach to synthesis of linear systems

A simple procedure for direct synthesis of linear feedback systems which is applicable to either continuous or sampled data processes is derived. Given the transfer function of the process to be controlled and constraints on desired closed-loop dynamics, the procedure yields an exact analytical solution for the transfer function of the required compensator without recourse to graphical techniques. Suitable constraints include specification of any or all closed-loop poles and/or specification of the position, velocity, or acceleration error constant. Design for specified rise time, overshoot, mean-squared error, etc., may be accomplished by using an iterative routine. The procedure is ideally suited for implementation by digital computer and has been applied to a simulated adaptive flight control system which required that the entire compensator design procedure be executed by a computer without the aid of human intervention.
Cutting through the silence: A sociological construction of self-injury

This project provides a sociological perspective on self-injury by assessing whether cutting is a learned behavior and whether practitioners use stigma management techniques. In-depth interviews via e-mail with self-reported self-injurers indicate cutting is learned from the self or from outside sources. Interviewees also discussed the stigma management techniques they use and whether they choose to disclose their behavior. The findings point to a potential increase in learned cutting from outside sources, and the potential for outside sources to help cutters maintain their behavior by providing each other with support.
Infants' understanding of object-directed action.

When and in what ways do infants recognize humans as intentional actors? An important aspect of this larger question concerns when infants recognize specific human actions (e.g. a reach) as object-directed (i.e. as acting toward goal-objects). In two studies using a visual habituation technique, 12-month-old infants were tested to assess their recognition that an adult's reach is directed toward its target object. Infants in the experimental condition were habituated to a display in which an actor reached over a wall-like barrier with an arcing arm movement, to pick up a ball. After habituation infants saw two test displays, for which the barrier was removed. In the direct test event the actor reached directly for the ball, the arm tracing a visually new path, but the action consistent with attempting to reach for the object as directly as possible. In the indirect test event the actor traced the old path, reaching over in an arc, even though the wall was no longer present. This arm movement was identical to that in habituation but no longer displayed a reach going directly to its object. In a control condition infants saw the same movements but in a situation with no goal-object. In the experimental conditions, with a goal object present, infants looked longer at the indirect test event in comparison to the direct test event. In the control conditions infants looked equally at both indirect and direct test events. We conclude that sensitivity to human object-directed action is established by 12-month-olds and compare these results to recent findings by [Gergely, G., Nadasdy, Z., Csibra, G., & Biro S. (1995). Taking the intentional stance at 12 months of age. Cognition, 56, 165–193] and [Woodward, A. (1998). Infants selectively encode the goal object of an actor's reach. Cognition, 69, 1–34].
Wave Propagation in Micromorphic Ferroelectric Solids

The balance laws of mass, microinertia, linear momentum, moment of momentum, energy, and entropy for microcontinuum are integrated with the Maxwell’s equations. The general constitutive theory for micromorphic electromagnetic thermoelastic solid is constructed. Linear constitutive equations of specialized micromorphic theory for ferroelectric solids with axis symmetry are derived. The frequency-wave-vector relations of wave propagating in perovskites parallel and perpendicular to its c-axis are obtained.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Suppression of Hyperandrogenism Does not Improve Peripheral or Hepatic Insulin Resistance in the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) have significant insulin resistance and are at risk to develop noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. It remains controversial, however, whether hyperandrogenism directly decreases insulin action. Hence, we performed 2-h euglycemic glucose (approximately 772 pmol/L steady state insulin levels) clamps in nine PCO women with insulin resistance basally and after the 12th week of therapy with a superagonist GnRH analog (40 micrograms every 8 h, sc). Diet, activity, and weight were kept constant. Despite significant decreases in plasma testosterone and androstenedione levels (both P less than 0.05), there was no significant change in insulin-mediated glucose disposal, plasma insulin levels, or hepatic glucose production. The sample size was adequate to detect a clinically significant change in insulin-stimulated glucose disposal (i.e. approximately 3.3 mumol/kg.min; P less than or equal to 0.05). We conclude that suppressing androgen levels into the normal range did not result in significant changes in insulin resistance in PCO. Thus, controlling hyperandrogenemia is not a clinically effective modality to improve insulin action and thereby decrease the risk of noninsulin-dependent diabetes in PCO.
Wavelength dependence of micro-EHL pressure rippling with random surface-roughness profiles

This paper studies line-contact elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) between two rough surfaces of random roughness profiles. A transient micro-EHL model is used to simulate the problems. Numerical results are obtained for a range of practical operating conditions and for relatively small specific film thicknesses (i.e., the A-values). The study reveals the wavelength dependence of micro-EHL pressure rippling. For the same A-value, the size of the pressure rippling is shown to be significantly smaller than those predicted earlier using more idealized system models. Furthermore, the pressure distribution is essentially unaffected by the short-wavelength components in the random surface-roughness profiles, except under near rolling conditions. It is shown that lubricant non-Newtonian shear-thinning is the mechanism that suppresses the short-wavelength pressure ripples. With a Newtonian lubricant, sharp pressure rippling is generated by the small-scale surface roughness textures. Since EHL lubricants exhibit...
72. Social stress enhances immature neutrophil release from bone marrow in murine Aspergillus fumigatus-induced allergic airway inflammation

It is well established that stress enhances inflammation and exacerbates symptoms in diseases including asthma. Nonetheless, the mechanisms by which stress influences disease progression are unknown. Clinical cases of “severe” asthma have been associated with increased neutrophil trafficking to the lung and increased insensitivity of immune cells to the anti-inflammatory and apoptotic effects of glucocorticoids. We hypothesize that these symptoms can be exacerbated by stress and are potential mechanisms by which patients can become refractory to standard treatment and present with prolonged or dysregulated inflammation. To address this issue, we used a murine repeated social defeat (RSD) paradigm that models stress-induced exacerbation of inflammation and immune cell glucocorticoid insensitivity. For instance, previous studies in an Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) allergic airway inflammation paradigm indicate that RSD increased trafficking of glucocorticoid insensitive immune cells, increased inflammation, and delayed the resolution of inflammation in the lung. Here, we show that RSD increased production of bone marrow-derived granulocytes and increased neutrophil trafficking to the lung. Several distinct populations of neutrophils were quantified including immature neutrophils (CD16int/CD49d-), which were significantly increased in the circulation and lung of RSD and Af challenged mice. Taken together, our data indicate that the stress-induced neutrophilia in the context of allergic airway inflammation may not simply be a marker of disease, but a major factor contributing to RSD exacerbation of pulmonary inflammation and disease pathogenesis.
Synthesis of dye-impregnated sol-gel glasses for fiber optic chemical sensing

The polarity of the silica cage has been investigated by entrapping organic dyes in a silica gel. pH dyes of bromocresol purple and bromocresol green were selected for this study. The influence of pH on the polarity of the silica cage was determined by measuring the spectral shift of the dye. The pH dye- impregnated silica films show a red-shift in an acidic environment and a blue shift in basic environment, compared to those dissolved in water. This implies that the polarity of a silica cage varies after being treated by different pH solutions. The cage shows higher polarity in a basic solution than in an acidic solution.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Introduction to the Special Issue on the Legacy of Charles Tilly: Framework and Range of Tilly’s Later Work

This special issue on the work and legacy of Charles Tilly (1929-2008) focuses on the analytical framework and the remarkable range of his later work, featuring review essays as well as "intellectual brokerage" (Tilly 2002:156) with previously unconnected or weakly connected traditions, as Tilly would put it. The papers emerged in connection with a panel at the 2009 conference of the Social Science History Association (SSHA).1 In response to the SSHA conference theme "Agency and Action," this panel investigated the work and legacy of Charles Tilly by focusing on his shift from structure to action and process in his later work. While his close attention to action and interaction reaches at least as far back as to 1977 when he first formulated the idea of "repertoires" of contention (Tilly 1977), he realized the eminently cultural notion of this idea only much later. "After years of denial," as he once put it (Tilly 2002:5), he proceeded with his own cultural turn in the 1990s. He arrived at a conversational understanding of culture as shared understandings and their representations in symbols, objects, and practices, which both constrain social interaction and alter as a consequence of social interaction (Tilly 2008b: 183). In striking resemblance to classic American Pragmatism, Tilly's later work suggested that if one understands the recurrent causal mechanisms and processes, one can put things right. Social scientists need to provide "superior stories" which
MMG and EMG responses during fatiguing isokinetic muscle contractions at different velocities

The purpose of this study was to determine mechanomyographic (MMG) and electromyographic (EMG) responses of the superficial quadriceps muscles during repeated isokinetic contractions in order to provide information about motor control strategies during such activity, and to assess uniformity in mechanical activity (MMG) between the investigated muscles. Ten adults performed 50 maximal concentric muscle contractions at three randomly selected contraction velocities (60, 180, and 300 degrees.s(-1)) on different days. Surface electrodes and an MMG sensor were placed on the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), and vastus medialis (VM). EMG and MMG amplitude and peak torque (PT) were calculated for each contraction, normalized, and averaged across all subjects. The results demonstrated that MMG amplitude more closely tracked the fatigue-induced decline in torque production at each velocity than did EMG amplitude. This indicates that MMG amplitude may be useful for estimating force production during fatiguing dynamic contractions when a direct measure is not available, such as during certain rehabilitative exercises. MMG amplitude responses of the VL, RF, and VM were not uniform for each velocity or across velocities, indicating that it may be possible to detect the individual contribution of each muscle to force production during repeated dynamic contractions. Therefore, MMG amplitude may be clinically useful for detecting abnormal force contributions of individual muscles during dynamic contractions, and determining whether various treatments are successful at correcting such abnormalities.
Questions related to gas chromatographic systems with glass open-tubular columns

Abstract Questions related to the sample introduction system, the column system including its connecting lines, and glass open-tubular columns are discussed. An injector using a pre-column and a pneumatically controlled split point is described. The role of the connecting lines and fittings on column performance is demonstrated. The characteristics of the glass open-tubular columns are illustrated, and the column-to-column consistency and reproducibility of columns produced under industrial manufacturing conditions are investigated.
Isoflavones in retail and institutional soy foods.

A national sampling plan was developed to select the most widely used isoflavone-containing foods in the United States. Foods were selected based on their retail volume and sampled in five geographical areas representing seven metropolitan areas. Isoflavones were analyzed from composite samples, raw and cooked, and reported by brand. Quality control measures were evaluated throughout the study. Isoflavone levels ranged from 1 μg/g in soy sauces to 540 μg/g in tempeh. Soymilk and tofu represented the major portion of soy foods evaluated. These data will appear in the electronic version of USDA Handbook No. 8 of Food Composition Data in 1999. Keywords: Phytoestrogens; genistein; glycitein; daidzein; biochanin A; formononetin
The heterologous expression of the cytochromes P450: a new approach for the study of enzyme activities and regulation.

The superfamily of cytochrome P450s encompasses a vast arena of biologically important reactions. The ever-increasing numbers of P450s and the diversity of their enzymatic properties dictate the need to develop new approaches for studying their chemical, physical and catalytic properties. The heterologous expression of P450s in various cell systems (e.g., COS cells, yeast, E. coli, etc.) now provides a means of producing recombinant proteins for such studies. The example is presented of the expression of P450(17)alpha in COS cells and the use of this technique for the comparison of the enzymatic properties of the rat, bovine and human enzymes. Further, studies are described whereby cotransfection results in the simultaneous expression of more than one P450 permitting the construction of 'designer membranes' for assessing protein-protein interactions and the reconstruction of complex pathways of metabolism. Recent advances with genetically engineered systems point to the power of the transfection technique for the study of structure-function relationships with this class of important hemoproteins.
Radiotherapy treatment planning using ultrasound‐sonic graph pen‐computer system

We have developed an on-line, interactive, computer-based radiotherapy planning system, employing a modified ultrasound device with gray scale, two sonic graph pen digitizers for data acquisition, and a multicolor video monitor for output display. Information on patient anatomy is extracted by the ultrasound device and displayed in one color. After determining the location and volume to be treated, the information regarding plan of irradiation is specified using the sonic graph pen. The computed isodose curves are displayed in a second color, superimposed on the ultrasound- and computer-drawn image of the anatomical structures. The treatment plan is modified until satisfactory, and the final plan is recorded on paper or color film. The patient, remaining in treatment position on the simulator table, is marked in reference to the accepted plan displayed on the video screen. The system enables the therapist to develop the treatment strategy firsthand and thereby meaningfully adapt specific requirements to the individual patient.
The Isolated Bovine Adrenomedullary Chromaffin Cell: A Model of Neuronal Excitation-Secretion

A method is described for the isolation of functional chromaffin cells from bovine adrenal medulla. The procedure involves dispersion of minced medullary tissue with a mixture of crude collagenase and hyaluronidase in calcium-free medium, combined with constant movement of the mince over nylon cloth. Dispersed cells were separated from larger tissue fragments by filtration through nylon cloth and glass filters of successively decreasing mesh size. Cells were collected and simultaneously removed from cell fragments and dispersion medium by centrifugation through a concentrated solution of bovine serum albumin. The isolated cells have been identified as chromaffin cells by a histochemical fluorescence technique which converts intracellular catecholamines to fluorescent condensation products with gaseous formaldehyde. This method has been combined with subsequent Giemsa staining of the smears to demonstrate that less than 1% of contaminating cells are present. Isolated cells were viable as indicated by exclu...
Safety aspects and pharmacokinetics of inhaled aerosolized gadolinium

This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics and potential toxicity of inhaled aerosolized gadopentetate dimeglumine. The pharmacokinetics were evaluated with in vitro relaxometry of the lungs, blood, urine, and liver before and for up to 36 hours after a 5-minute inhalation of aerosolized gadopentetate dimeglumine (0.25 mol/L). For assessment of potential toxicity, hemodynamic variables were monitored during and for 10 minutes after inhalation. Extravascular lung water was measured before and after exposure. Finally, the potential for tissue damage was evaluated histologically. Pulmonary clearance of aerosolized gadopentetate dimeglumine was monoexponential with a half-time of 2.16 hours. Aerosolized gadopentetate dimeglumine was excreted through the kidneys, as shown by the decrease in urinary T1. Renal elimination was completed by 30 hours. No acute hemodynamic effect, histologic change, or induction of edema was demonstrated. This study shows that inhalation of aerosolized gadopentetate dimeglumine is well tolerated in rats and favors the further evaluation of this administration route, including clinical trials.
Modulating the Er:YAG laser.

Background and Objectives In the past 2 years, there has been some controversy about the optimal laser system, or combination of systems, for cutaneous resurfacing. Initially, it seemed that the Er:YAG laser would have significant advantages over the CO2 laser. In practice, some of those who jumped early onto the Er:YAG bandwagon have been unimpressed with the degree of skin tightening that can be achieved with this system. Also, the excessive bleeding induced by the Er:YAG lasers prevented deeper vaporization. During the past 18 months, three new “modulated” Er:YAG lasers have been produced that are said to be able to achieve CO2 laser-like effects, while maintaining the Er:YAG laser advantages. The purpose of this article is to examine these new systems and to discuss their potential benefits, if any, over the “conventional” Er:YAG lasers, and the CO2 lasers. Study Design/Materials and Methods The author has collected data from his own experience and that of his colleagues in the department of dermatology at University of California at San Francisco. The author has used all three types of modulated Er:YAG laser on patients presenting for cosmetic laser resurfacing and the treatment of many benign conditions over an 18-month period. Results All three modulated forms of Er:YAG lasers have been demonstrated to provide better coagulation than the conventional Er:YAG lasers. The Derma-K and the Contour Er:YAG lasers were able to induce tissue contraction/desiccation similar to the CO2 laser. The author and his colleagues have induced only two cases of permanent hypopigmentation in over 50 cases during the past 18 months while using the Er:YAG laser, significantly less than might be expected with the CO2 lasers. Conclusions If a laser surgeon is happy with the results obtained with a high-energy, short-pulse CO2 laser, then there seems little reason to consider changing to an Er:YAG laser. The modulated Er:YAG lasers have definite advantages over the conventional Er:YAG lasers. They exhibit better control of hemostasis and can ablate tissue to a greater depth than the conventional Er:YAG lasers. The Er:YAG lasers might induce less permanent hypopigmentation than the CO2 lasers. Lasers Surg. Med. 26:223–226, 2000 © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Calcium Alginate Nanoparticles Synthesized Through a Novel Interfacial Cross-Linking Method as a Potential Protein Drug Delivery System

The goal of this research work was to develop a novel technique to synthesize calcium alginate nanoparticles using pharmaceutically relevant microemulsions. Stable microemulsion-based reactors were prepared using aqueous sodium alginate, aqueous calcium chloride, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DOSS), and isopropyl myristate. The reactor microemulsions were characterized via conductivity and dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiments. The conductivity data indicated composition- and reagent-dependent variations in electrical conductivity when the aqueous phase containing reagents were present at or above a Wo (Wo = [DOSS]/[water]) value of 14. The reactor microemulsions were of approximately 6 nm sized droplets. When the reactor microemulsions were mixed and sonicated for 1 h approximately, 350-nm-sized calcium alginate nanoparticles were produced, as indicated by DLS measurements. The particles were isolated and characterized via low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy. The electron micrographs corroborate the DLS results. The nanoparticles were evaluated as a drug delivery system by incorporating bovine serum albumin (BSA) and performing in vitro release and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) studies. The BSA release profile was characterized by an initial burst release followed by a sustained-release phase. SDS-PAGE studies indicated that the incorporated protein did not suffer covalent aggregation or degradation via fragmentation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 101:2177–2184, 2012
Extraction and isolation of the One-electron Oxidized [(Zr6Be)Cl18]5− and [(Zr6Be)Cl18]4− Clusters from solid state precursors†

One-electron oxidized zirconium chloride clusters were obtained from solid state precursors Rb5Zr6Cl18B and K3Zr6Cl15Be by dissolution in CH3CN in the presence of Et4NCl and isolated as the salts (Et4N)4Zr6Cl18B · 2 CH3CN and (Et4N)5Zr6Cl18Be · 3 CH3CN. (Et4N)4Zr6Cl18B · 2 CH3CN crystallizes in the space group P1 (#2) with a = 12.329(5) A, b = 12.657(6) A, c = 13.136(8) A, α = 118.28(4)°, β = 93.45(4)°, γ = 105.54(3)°, V = 1696(2) A3, and Z = 1. (Et4N)5Zr6Cl18Be · 3 CH3CN was refined in the space group C2/c (# 15) with a = 24.166(11) A, b = 13.265(6) A, c = 25.86(2) A, β = 104.21(4)°, V = 8037(7) A3, and Z = 4; the space group reflects the pseudo-symmetry of the crystal, the true symmetry of the structure is lower. The removal of one electron from the ZrZr bonding HOMO of both clusters results in cluster expansion of similar magnitude in both compounds. Moisture from the added Et4NCl is the likely oxidant, but the possibility that acetonitrile may be reduced by [(Zr6Be)Cl18]6− is not ruled out. Extraktion und Isolierung der um ein Elektron oxidierten Cluster [(Zr6Be)Cl18]5− und [(Zr6Be)Cl18]4− aus Festkorper-Vorstufen Um ein Elektron oxidierten Zirconiumchlorid-Cluster wurden aus den Festkorper-Vorstufen Rb5Zr6Cl18B und K3Zr6Cl15Be durch Losen in CH3CN in Gegenwart von Et4NCl erhalten und in Form der Salze Et4N4Zr6Cl18B · 2 CH3CN und (Et4N)5Zr6Cl18Be · 3 CH3CN isoliert. (Et4N)4Zr6Cl18B · 2 CH3CN kristallisiert in der Raumgruppe P1 (Nr. 2) mit a = 12,329(5), b = 12,657(6), = 13,136(8) A, α = 118,28(4)°, β = 93,45(4)°, γ = 105,54(3)°, V = 1696(2) A3 und Z = 1. (Et4N)5Zr6Cl18Be · CH3CN wurde in der Raumgruppe C2/c (Nr. 15) mit a = 24,166(11), b = 13,265(6), c = 25,86(2) A, β = 104,21(4)°, V = 8037(7) A3 und Z = 4 verfeinert. Die Raumgruppe zeigt Pseudosymmetrie des Kristalls – die „wahre” Symmetrie der Struktur ist niedriger. Die Entfernung eines Elektrons aus dem ZrZr-bindenden HOMO des Clusters fuhrt zu einer ahnlichen Expansion des Clusters in beiden Verbindungen. Feuchtigkeit aus dem zugegebenen Et4NCl ist wahrscheinlich das Oxidationsmittel, was aber die Moglichkeit der Reduktion von Acetonitril durch [(Zr6Be)Cl18]6− nicht ausschliest.
Changes in Gill Raker Morphology for Three Age Classes of Kokanee

ABSTRACT We used gill raker measurements of kokanee salmon and zooplankton body dimensions to assess how gill raker structure and prey retention probabilities change with fish age. Cumulative proportion of filtering area between gill rakers and retention probabilities for smaller zooplankton decreased with increasing age of kokanee. Assuming strict filter feeding, only the largest of zooplankters would be retained by age-3 kokanee.
A Poverty of Imagination: George W. Bush's Policy in Latin America

Washington's challenge during George W. Bush's presidency was to define a new relationship with Latin America beyond free trade and neoliberal economics – a relationship responsive to the region's demand for social and economic justice. Preoccupied by the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Bush administration failed this challenge. The president left his Latin American policy in the hands of conservative cold warriors who reacted with hostility to the election of ‘new left’ socialists and populists. As a result, Washington's reputation and relations in Latin America deteriorated dramatically.
High Frequency Optoelectronic Oscillator Operation via Photonic Filtering with an Ultra-High Finesse Fabry-Perot Etalon

A Fabry-Perot etalon with 1.498 GHz free spectral range and 100,000 finesse is used for photonic filtering in an optoelectronic oscillator. Oscillations at multiples of its FSR are produced at 10.49 GHz and 50.9 GHz.
On a Covering Problem for Partially Specified Switching Functions

We consider the problem of finding the minimum number K(n,c) of total switching functions of n variables necessary to cover the set of all switching functions which are specified in at most c positions. We find an exact solution for K(n,2) and an upper bound for K(n,c) which is better than a previously known upper bound by an exponential factor.
Methods and challenges in quantifying mid-spatial frequencies

Mid-spatial frequencies (MSFs) are of increasing importance in optical applications. We discuss common means for specifying and evaluating MSFs, as well as some of the concerns in measuring them.
Social and Behavioral Factors in Transmission and Response to Shigellosis

Biomedical approaches to shigellosis tend to emphasize unique etiologic and clinical features of the disease, e.g., those related to the development of vaccines or case management. The biologic characteristics of the organism and sociocultural responses to it imply that it is unlikely that a purely technologic solution (vaccine) to shigellosis will be found soon. Infrastructural development (protected water supply and sanitary disposal of feces) may be too expensive to be feasible due to the economic, environmental, and demographic conditions in developing countries. Behavioral change to reduce the risk of transmission may be a more effective preventive strategy. Case management in developing countries will require prompt, appropriate action when symptoms of shigellosis occur. A general model of health-seeking behavior suggests patients' parents or guardians (anyone responsible for care of the child and for overseeing the child's health, e.g., older siblings or grandparents) will take no action if the symptoms are not recognized or are perceived as normal or if the condition is not evaluated as serious or treatable. It is not necessary for patients' parents or guardians to learn about etiologic models from medical practitioners to behave in ways that will reduce the risk of infection or to seek effective treatment. For example, hand washing may be promoted on the basis of symbolism. Agreement between potential patients or their guardians and health care providers on signs of potentially severe disease may be enough to bring them into effective contact.
Protein molecules in 3D: complex behavior from simple local geometry plus weak interactions

Protein structures in 3D are large. elegant, complex, and subtle enough that their prediction and understanding still largely eludes us. In contrast, their local building blocks are quite simple: to a good approximation their connectivity is a tree graph of backbone and sidechains, and the atoms are connected with specific, near-invariant covalent bond-length and bond-angle geometry. However, the connections are mostly tetrahedral, with essentially no right angles and thus no independent, orthogonal degrees of freedom. Also, the non-local interactions such as van der Waals, hydrophobicity, and hydrogen bonds are very much weaker than the covalent bonds and produce the compact, semi-rigid "native" structure only collectively by their great numbers. These two factors are major causes of the cooperativity of protein folding, allostery, and function, and help guide the evolution of a protein sequence to achieve just one or a few equilibrium 3D structures. We will explore several ways in which geometrical analysis - or sometimes even a geometrical metaphor - has illuminated some facet of protein folding, conformation, or mobility. A final message is that the currently most successful algorithms in structure prediction and design attack the complexity by global energetics evaluated using unabashed brute-force computation. There may yet be opportunity for developing more efficient solutions by hierarchical buildup of cleaner and more intuitive geometrical understanding.
Minimum Tax, Recapture and Choice of Depreciation Methods*

This paper examines the problem of the trade-off between the possible minimum tax consequences of accelerated depreciation, the recapture of excess depreciation, and the choice of depreciation methods for maximizing investor wealth. The model is simulated for various ranges of the inputs to which the depreciation selection decision is sensitive. The results indicate that for high marginal tax rates, reasonably long holding periods, and reasonably high discount rates, the investor should select the accelerated methods after considering the minimum tax and recapture consequences.
Process variation aware SRAM/cache for aggressive voltage-frequency scaling

this paper proposes a novel Process Variation Aware SRAM architecture designed to inherently support voltage scaling. The peripheral circuitry of the SRAM is modified to selectively allow overdriving a wordline which contains weak cell(s). This architecture allows reducing the power on the entire array; however it selectively trades power for correctness when rows containing weak cells are accessed. The cell sizing is designed to assure successful read operations. This avoids flipping the content of the cells when the wordline is overdriven. Our simulations report 23% to 30% improvement in cell access time and 31% to 51% improvement in cell write time in overdriven wordlines. Total area overhead is negligible (4%). Low voltage operation achieves more than 40% reduction in dynamic power consumption and approximately 50% reduction in leakage power consumption.