cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seismic Cross Sections of the Upper Mantle

Surface wave tomography is being used to map the seismic velocity and anisotropy of the upper mantle on a global basis [Nataf et al., Anisotropy and shear-velocity heterogeneities in the upper mantle, Geophys. Res. Lett., 11, 109-112, 1984]. The color figure shows cross sections of the upper 670 km of the mantle. (Note previous example published on the cover of Eos, April 17, 1984.) VSV is the velocity of vertically polarized shear waves, averaged with respect to azimuth. The orange regions are slow, presumably hot, regions of the mantle, although VSV can below due to crystal orientation, or anisotropy, as well as to high temperature. The ambiguity is removed by studying the anisotropy. The parameter XI is related to VSH-VSV, the difference in velocity between the two polarizations of shear waves. Olivine crystals oriented with the fast axis in the horizontal plane would give positive XI. This would be the expected situation for horizontal flow. Vertical flow is expected to give negative XI for an olivine-rich mantle. The cross sections for XI, with this interpretation, would be orange in regions of ascending and descending flow.
Effect of grain boundary migration on apparent boundary diffusion coefficients

Abstract The effect of grain boundary migration on the tracer concentration depth profiles that develop during a diffusion experiment is evaluated. An expression for the average tracer concentration within a plane at depth x and time t for a boundary migrating with velocity V is derived. This average concentration is compared to that expected for a stationary boundary. Results indicate that considerable errors in both the magnitude and temperature dependence of the apparent diffusion coefficient may arise if grain boundary migration is neglected.
Decoherence and programmable quantum computation.

When coherent states of the electromagnetic field are used to drive the evolution of a quantum computer, a decoherence results due to the back reaction from the qubits onto the fields. We show how to calculate this effect. No assumptions about the environment are necessary, so this represents a useful model to test the fidelity of quantum error correcting codes. We examine two cases of interest. First, the decoherence from the Walsh-Hadamard transformations in Grover's search algorithm is found [Phys. Rev. Lett. 79, 325 (1997)]. Interference effects, and decoherence-dependent phases, are present that could be useful in reducing the decoherence. Second, Shor's fault-tolerant controlled-NOT gate is examined, utilizing frequency-selective pulses [Proceedings, 35th Annual Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science (IEEE Press, New York, 1994), pp. 56--65]. This implementation is found not to be optimal in regards to fault-tolerant quantum computation.
Analysis of carbon-based interconnect breakdown

Current-induced breakdown phenomena of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) for future on-chip interconnect applications are presented. The effect of heat dissipation via the underlying substrate is studied using different experimental configurations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques are utilized to study the structural damage by current stress. While the measured maximum current density in the suspended CNF in air is inversely proportional to nanofiber length and independent of diameter, SiO 2 -supported CNFs improves their current capacity, which implies effective heat dissipation to the oxide. The correlation between maximum current density and electrical resistivity confirms the importance of local Joule heating, showing strong coupling between electrical and thermal transport in CNFs.
Supramolecular SNARE assembly precedes hemifusion in SNARE-mediated membrane fusion

Formation of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex facilitates intracellular membrane fusion. A single SNARE complex is thought to be insufficient; multiple copies of SNARE complexes must work cooperatively. However, the mechanism by which such a higher-order SNARE protein structure is assembled is unknown. EPR and fluorescence analyses show that at least three copies of target-membrane SNARE proteins self-assemble through the interaction between the transmembrane domains (TMDs), and this multimeric structure serves as scaffolding for trans-SNARE assembly. SNARE core formation in solution induces oligomerization of the TMDs of vesicle-associated SNAREs in the apposing membrane, transiently forming a supramolecular protein structure spanning two membranes. This higher-order protein intermediate evolves, by involving lipid molecules, to the hemifusion state. Hemifusion is subsequently followed by distal leaflet mixing and formation of the cis-SNARE complex.
Anticholinesterase activity of elapid venoms.

Abstract Of 16 elapid venoms from Naja, Bungarus, Ophiophagus, Dendroaspis, Hemachatus and Notechis species, only Notechis scutatus venom totally lacked anticholinesterase activity while N. nigricollis, M. fulvius, D. jamesoni, D. polylepis and D. angusticeps lacked acetylcholinesterase activity. Zinc ions were necessary for anticholinesterase activity; cobaltous ions being less effective in restoring anticholinesterase activity, while magnesium, nickelous, stannous and manganous ions were inactive. Notechis scutatus and to a lesser extent Dendroaspis jamesoni venom enhanced the acetylcholinesterase activity of Bungarus fasciatus venom when incubated together in the presence of zinc.
Malignant lymphoma, lymphoblastic

Among the malignant lymphomas of the diffuse, poorly differentiated lymphocytic type, a cytologically distinctive form can be recognized. It is composed of immature lymphoid cells that are indistinguishable from the cells of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Although these neoplasms usually have been classified as malignant lymphoma, lymphoblastic type, they contain, in addition to lymphoblasts, prolymphocytes in varying proportions. On the basis of the nuclear morphology, malignant lymphoma of the lymphoblastic type, (MLLB) can be further divided into those with and those without convoluted nuclei. In our series both groups had the following clinical features in common: 1) frequent occurrence in children and adolescents; 2) clinical presentation with mediastinal masses in 50% of cases; 3) a high incidence of bone marrow and perpheral blood involvement during the course of the disease; and 4) rapid progression of the disease with a median survival of 8 months. Our observations indicate that nuclear convolutions are helpful but not essential for the recognition of a clinicopathologic entity which is histologically and cytologically characterized by 1) the immaturity of the lymphoid cells indistinguishable from the lymphoblasts and prolymphocytes of ALL and 2) a high mitotic index. Because of the frequency with which MLLB progresses into ALL, systemic therapy may be indicated even before this progression is hematologically evident. This indicates the need for morphologic recognition of this malignant lymphoma regardless of the presence of nuclear convolution, age of the patient, and site of presentation.
Death anxiety, coping resources, and comfort with dying patients among nurses in AIDS care facilities

437 nursing staff members in seven AIDS residential health care facilities in New York City were asked to complete a questionnaire consisting of the Death Anxiety Scale, the Coping Resources Inventory, the Comfort with Dying Patients Scale, and a Demographic Section. 197 usable questionnaires were returned. There were statistically significant racial or ethnic differences in scores on physical coping resources, with African-Americans reporting the fewest resources. No significant relations were found between scores on death anxiety, coping resources, and comfort with dying patients. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to assess the interaction of the Nursing group (professional or paraprofessional nurses), Death anxiety, and Coping resources with Comfort with dying patients. There were no statistically significant differences for death anxiety, coping resources, and comfort with dying patients by the Nursing group.
MUSCLE EXTRACELLULAR MEMBRANE IMMUNOFLUORESCENCE AND HLA AS POSSIBLE MARKERS OF PREDIABETES

Abstract Markers for prediabetes were sought in a study of 29 non-diabetic sibs of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, 18 of whom were HLA-identical, and 11 non-HLA identical, to their diabetic sibs, and 47 controls. HLA-identical sibs had higher mean plasma glucose levels than controls at 60, 90, and 120 min during oral glucose tolerance tests (GTT). Similarly, mean serum insulin levels were higher in HLA-identical sibs than in controls at 60 and 90 min during the GTT. Non-HLA-identical sibs had higher glucose and insulin levels only at 60 min when compared to controls, but they were not different from HLA-identical sibs at any time during the GTT. HLA-identical sibs had significantly more intense immunofluorescent (IF) staining of albumin in the skeletal muscle extracellular membrane than either non-HLA-identical sibs or controls. IF staining for IgG in the skeletal muscle extracellular membrane was significantly more intense in both sib groups than in the controls. Muscle capillary basement thickness was normal in both sib groups. There were no significant differences among the three groups for glycosylated haemoglobin and cytoplasmic islet-cell antibodies. Since HLA identity with the proband is likely to be a marker for prediabetes in diabetic families, the abnormal IF staining of muscle extracellular membrane for protein is likely to be an expression of the prediabetic state and may be related to mild, possibly intermittent, glucose intolerance.
Bilateral lucency of the globus pallidus complicating methylmalonic acidemia

A child was seen because of encephalopathy and metabolic ketoacidosis at 19 months. She was found to have a cobalamin-responsive form of methylmalonic acidemia of the cbl A complementation group. However, after treatment with cyanocobalamin and a protein-restricted diet, with recovery from the encephalopathy, she was found to have a tremor and bilateral dystonic posturing in association with lucencies in the globus pallidi shown by computed tomographic scan.
How should we describe the radiobiologic effect of extracranial stereotactic radiosurgery: Equivalent uniform dose or tumor control probability?

Extracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (ESR) is now undergoing clinical investigation at numerous institutions as a treatment for solitary malignant lesions. Because there is no standard ESR technique, the same minimum dose might be applied through widely variable target dose-volume histograms. For multicenter trials of ESR or interinstitutional comparisons, a reliable index of radiobiological dose equivalency might facilitate the evaluation of dose-response relationships. Equivalent uniform dose (EUD) and tumor control probability (TCP) were considered for this application. While EUD appears more robust for the prospective description of ESR, TCP is expected to remain more valuable for a post hoc estimation of radiosensitivity parameters.
Myosin remodelling in the contracting A7r5 smooth muscle cell.

AIM: Using confocal microscopy and standard immunohistochemical techniques, changes in the structure of alpha-actin and beta-actin as well as the distribution of myosin II were studied in the contracting A7r5 smooth muscle cell. RESULTS: Prior to stimulation, each of the three proteins were incorporated into filamentous structures extending the length of the cell body. At 30 min after stimulation by phorbol 12, 13 dibutyrate (PDBu), the system of densely packed beta-actin fibres was retained. By comparison, alpha-actin and myosin were observed to undergo significant remodelling, characterized by loss in fibre structure and the formation of brightly fluorescing peripheral bodies. Co-immunoprecipitation of alpha-actin and myosin II suggested an association between the proteins. Consistent with this observation, dual immunostaining for alpha-actin and myosin revealed strong co-localization of the two proteins prior to stimulation. Following PDBu stimulation myosin II was observed to partially disassociate from alpha-actin structure but showed significant co-localization with alpha-actin filaments and peripheral bodies throughout the interval of contraction. The use of cytochalasin B to block actin polymerization or the selective dissolution of alpha-actin cable structure by thapsigargin produced similar patterns of change in alpha-actin structure and the localization of myosin II. CONCLUSION: The results support the concept of myosin liability and potential for remodelling. The results suggest that myosin undergoes extensive relocalization in association with alpha-actin remodelling which may be an important determinant of contractile function in the A7r5 smooth muscle cell.
Cell Wall Characteristics of Gamma-Radiated Refrigerated Cucumber Pickles

The effect of gamma radiation (0, 0.5, and 1.0 kGy) on firmness and changes in cell wall polysaccharides of mesocarp tissue from refrigerated cucumber pickles was examined. Softening of mesocarp tissue of pickles exposed to 1.0 kGy was a response associated with altered solubility characteristics of pectic substances. Ionizing radiation reduced nonsoluble and alkali soluble pectic substances, while levels of water and chelator soluble pectic substances were increased. Radiation reduced the degree of esterification of pectic substances and increased the amount of bound calcium. Except for a small reduction in galactose caused by 1.0 kGy, levels of other neutral sugars in the cell wall were not significantly affected by any of the treatments.
Transamination in Leptospira biflexa.

SummaryWhole cells and cell-free extracts of Leptospira biflexa have been used to demonstrate a series of transamination reactions. Dialysis against versene was used to show that pyridoxal phosphate served as a coenzyme. The possible importance of transamination in leptospiral metabolism is discussed.
Biphasic increase in circulating and renal TNF-α in MRL-lpr mice with differing regulatory mechanisms

Biphasic increase in circulating and renal TNF-α in MRL- lpr mice with differing regulatory mechanisms. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α: contributes to expansion of lymphocytes in neonatal mice and can accelerate renal injury. T cells induced by the lpr gene promote renal injury. However, the lpr gene alone is insufficient to cause renal damage, since MRL- lpr , but not C3H- lpr mice develop lupus nephritis. In this study, we examined the temporal expression of TNF-α in the kidney and circulation of mice (MRL and C3H) with the lpr gene and their congenic counterparts (++). We measured a bioactive TNF-α using L929 cells and tissue expression with an avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase method. A biphasic increase in circulating TNF-α in MRL- lpr mice was detected. There was an initial peak in neonatal mice (703 ± 208 pg/ml) which normalized by two months of age (87 ± 13 pg/ml) and reascended proportional to the severity of renal injury (non-proteinuric 570 ± 87, proteinuric; 1255 ± 135 pg/ml). In addition, there was only a single peak in neonatal C3H- lpr mice (1270 ± 318 pg/ml) with a nadir by six weeks of age (434 ± 52 pg/ml). In contrast, serum TNF-α was low in MRL-++ and C3H-++ mice (80 ± 3 and 95 ± 30 pg/ml), respectively. TNF-α expression in kidneys paralleled the serum pattern in MRL- lpr mice. Enhanced TNF-α expression was restricted to tubular epithelial cells (TEC) in neonatal MRL- lpr and C3H- lpr mice, and not detected in congenics. In adult mice, intrarenal TNF-α expression was more ubiquitous and was detected in glomeruli, vascular smooth muscle and perivascular infiltrating cells as well as TEC. In addition, TNF-α expression intensified in the kidneys in proportion to the severity of proteinuria. TNF-α was absent in age matched C3H- lpr , C3H-++ and MRL-++ mice. Additional studies indicated that: (1) neither MRL- lpr or C3H-++ TEC constitutively secreted substantial amounts of TNF-α and required a cytokine stimulation; and (2) the clearance of TNF-α via TNF-α receptors was similar in MRL-lpr, MRL-++ and C3H-++ mice, suggesting the increase of serum TNF-α was not a result of a defect in clearance. Thus, these results indicate two distinct mechanisms of TNF-α regulation in MRL- lpr mice: (1) neonatal up-regulation related to the lpr gene; and (2) an increase in mature mice proportional to the severity of lupus nephritis.
The use of phonological, orthographic, and contextual information during reading: a comparison of adults who are learning to read and skilled adult readers

The purpose of this study was to assess the role that phonological, orthographic, and contextual sources of information play in a group of adults who were learning to read compared to adult skilled readers. Participants read short paragraphs that contained a correct homophone, an incorrect homophone, or a spelling control. Target words were orthographically similar or dissimilar, and they appeared in context that predicted the target or was neutral with respect to the target. The pattern of data obtained for skilled readers was consistent with past work (Rayner et al., Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition 24(2), 476–497, 1998). Skilled readers showed no reading time differences between the correct homophone and the incorrect homophone, as long as the two were orthographically similar, but reading times on these words were faster than the spelling control condition. The pattern of data for the adults who were learning to read was different. These readers were actually better at noticing that an incorrect version of the homophone was present. Importantly, we did find consistent significant differences between the incorrect homophone condition and the spelling control condition. This suggests the adults who were learning to read use phonological codes during word recognition, but they do so less efficiently than skilled readers.
Effects of stress and ebiratide (Hoe-427) on free-choice ethanol consumption: Comparison of lewis and Sprague-Dawley rats

The effects of immobilization stress, isolation stress and administration of Hoe-427 on free-choice consumption of ethanol by Lewis and Sprague-Dawley rats were studied. The animals were offered two-bottle choice consumption of 0.2% saccharin and 10% ethanol/0.2% saccharin, then exposed to 4 days of immobilization stress or isolation stress on an irregular, unpredictable schedule or 4 days of i.p. doses of Hoe-427 at 1800 hours. Both stresses resulted in significant decreases in ethanol consumption during the stress period. Hoe-427 produced a significant decrease in ethanol consumption, in a dose-dependent manner. Saccharin consumption was not significantly affected by any of the treatments. The ability to correlate the Lewis and Sprague-Dawley rat response further aids in supporting the role of the adrenocorticotropic peptide in the development of ethanol consumption.
A unique monitoring and control system for laboratory fermenters

An interfacing network utilizing RS-232, analog, and digital input-output was designed for laboratory fermenters. It is unique due to its ability to communicate with more than two RS-232 devices, and can be expanded by the addition of other devices utilizing any communication protocol.
AGVSim2-a development tool for AGVS controller design

SUMMARY This paper presents a vehicle system simulator, AGVSim2, to be used in the evaluation of control strategies of real-time free-ranging vehicle supervisory controllers. The C-based discrete-event simulator is designed to be flexible so that many system configurations can be modelled. Also, the simulator allows for complex free-ranging vehicle manoeuvres, bidirectional flow, multiple vehicle types, and multiple loads on a vehicle. Instead of modelling the vehicle controller logic, the simulator is linked directly to the vehicle supervisory controller software. The simulator reports a variety of performance statistics and a trace of the system activities so that the performance of the supervisory controller can be evaluated. To improve the evaluation procedure, the simulator is also designed to be linked to an animation module that graphically displays the vehicle movements.
Accuracy and reliability of linear cephalometric measurements from cone-beam computed tomography scans of a dry human skull.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of 3-dimensional craniofacial measurements obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of a dry human skull. Methods Seventeen landmarks were identified on the skull. CBCT scans were then obtained, with 2 skull orientations during scanning. Twenty-nine interlandmark linear measurements were made directly on the skull and compared with the same measurements made on the CBCT scans. All measurements were made by 2 operators on 4 separate occasions. Results The method errors were 0.19, 0.21, and 0.19 mm in the x-, y- and z-axes, respectively. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed no significant intraoperator or interoperator differences. The mean measurement error was –0.01 mm (SD, 0.129 mm). Five measurement errors were found to be statistically significantly different; however, all measurement errors were below the known voxel size and clinically insignificant. No differences were found in the measurements from the 2 CBCT scan orientations of the skull. Conclusions CBCT allows for clinically accurate and reliable 3-dimensional linear measurements of the craniofacial complex. Moreover, skull orientation during CBCT scanning does not affect the accuracy or the reliability of these measurements.
Agrammatic and non-brain-damaged subjects' verb and verb argument structure production

This study examined verb and verb argument structure production in 10 agrammatic aphasic and 10 non-brain-damaged subjects. Production of six types of verbs was examined in two conditions-a confrontation and an elicited condition; and production of verb arguments was examined in a sentence condition in which each target verb was elicited with all possible argument structure arrangements. Results showed statistically significant differences between the aphasic and non-brain-damaged subjects in all conditions, but no significant differences were found between confrontation and elicited labelling conditions for either subject group. The aphasic subjects, however, produced obligatory one-place verbs correctly significantly more often than three-place or complement verbs in the elicited condition and a consistent hierarchy of verb difficulty was found in both the confrontation and elicited conditions, For both subject groups sentence production was influenced by the number of arguments or participant roles and by the type of arguments required by the verb. In addition, the complexity of the verb (i.e. the number of possible argument structure arrangements) influenced sentence production with simple verbs produced correctly with their arguments more often than complex ones. Finally, obligatory arguments were produced correctly more often than optional ones, even when production of the optional arguments was requested. These data indicate that the argument structure properties of verbs are important dimensions of lexical organization that influence both verb retrieval and sentence production in agrammatic aphasic subjects.
Crystal Structure of Titanium and Chromium

Precision measurements of the crystal structure of these two metals in very pure form have been made. For chromium (99.8 percent) a body-centered cubic structure, with ${a}_{0}=2.872$A, is found; for titanium (99.9 percent) an hexagonal close-packed structure, with ${a}_{0}=2.951$A; axial ratio $c=1.590$. These structures are of the type previously assigned by A. W. Hull, but differ slightly in numerical values. They were measured in comparison with copper using Davey's value of ${a}_{0}=3.597$A for pure copper. The densities computed from these results come out 4.49 for Ti and 7.23 for Cr. Heat treatment had no effect on the crystal form for Ti, merely changing the size of the crystals.
Reply to Levine and Wu

En reponse aux critiques emises par Levine dans le present numero a propos de la methode de l'assortiment optimal en analyse sequentielle, l'A. plaide en faveur d'une technique encore jeune mais prometteuse. Par ailleurs, il recuse les critiques methodologiques formulees par Wu a propos des algorithmes de la replication et de la succession temporelle
Dissociation equilibria of protonated hydroxybenzamides and alkoxybenzamides: water as a reactant

In previous work, the Hammett acidity function, H0, was used to describe the prototropic reactions of unsubstituted carboxamides. In that treatment, it was necessary to take into account the hydration requirements of the prototropic reactions of those carboxamides relative to the hydration requirements of the dissociations of the primary amines used as indicators to establish the H0 scale. In this work, the same approach was applied to the prototropic reactions of the hydroxybenzamides and their alkyl ethers in order to determine the influence of water, as a reactant, on these reactions. It was found that the hydration requirements for the prototropic reactions of the hydroxybenzamides and their alkyl ethers were the same as the hydration requirements for the prototropic reactions of the unsubstituted carboxamides. Secondly, it was found that the differences between the basicities of the compounds studied here may be explained by the inductive and electromeric effects of the hydroxy group. Thirdly, it was found that the intramolecular hydrogen-bond in salicylamide is weak, does not occur in all salicylamide molecules and plays a much less dramatic role than does the intramolecular hydrogen-bond of salicylic acid in its chemistry.
The demise of leadership: Positivity and negativity biases in evaluations of dead leaders

Five studies compared evaluations of living versus dead leaders. In Studies 1 and 2, participants displayed a death positivity bias, forming more favorable impressions of dead leaders than of equivalent living leaders. Study 3 demonstrated the death positivity bias in evaluations of real-world leaders in politics, sports, and entertainment. Study 4 showed that death polarizes morality judgments: Moral leaders were posthumously judged as more moral while immoral leaders were posthumously judged as more immoral. Study 5 demonstrated the St. Augustine effect: Dead leaders who had changed from sinners to saints were judged more favorably than living leaders who had undergone the same change. The implications of these findings for theory and research on leadership legacy and organizational impression management are discussed.
Differential action of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on endogenous estrogen-responsive genes and on a transfected estrogen-responsive reporter in MCF-7 cells.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are common environmental pollutants that have been extensively studied for multiple toxicological endpoints in both laboratory animals and humans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the estrogenicity of PAHs in the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. We investigated 14 PAHs for their ability to bind either the estrogen receptor (ER) or the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and to activate target gene expression. PAHs were tested in a human recombinant estrogen receptor (hrER) competitive binding assay, and in both an estrogen response element (ERE)- and xenobiotic response element (XRE)-mediated reporter gene assay. We used quantitative RT-PCR to examine selected PAHs that showed activity in the ERE reporter gene assay for their ability to upregulate estrogen-responsive genes HEM45, progesterone receptor, and pS2, and the aryl hydrocarbon-responsive CYP1A1 gene. None of the 14 PAHs bound the hrER, but five of the PAHs (anthracene, B[a]A, chrysene, B[b]F, and B[a]P) induced ER-reporter activity. This activity was dependent on the metabolism of PAHs in MCF-7 cells via the AhR pathway, which resulted in the formation of metabolites that bound the ER. None of the five PAHs that induced the ER-reporter were found to upregulate estrogen-responsive genes, yet four of the five PAHs induced AhR-dependent CYP1A1 gene expression. In contrast, a metabolite of B[a]P, 3′OH-B[a]P, and a PCB metabolite, 4′OH-2,4,6-BP, did weakly upregulate all three estrogen-responsive genes. Data from these studies indicate that induction of ER-reporter activity alone does not necessarily parallel endogenous gene transcription, and that the reporter gene assay may detect interactions that are not functional in vivo.
Hypoxia induced by Na2S2O4 increases [Na+]i in mouse glomus cells, an effect depressed by cobalt. Experiments with Na+-selective microelectrodes and voltage-clamping

Abstract The intracellular sodium concentration ([Na + ] i ) and resting potential ( E m ) of cultured mouse glomus cells (clustered and isolated) were simultaneously measured with intracellular Na + -sensitive and conventional, KCl-filled, microelectrodes. Results obtained in clustered and isolated cells were similar. During normoxia (PO 2 122 Torr), [Na + ] i was 12–13 mM corresponding to a Na + equilibrium potential ( E Na ) of about 58 mV. Em was about −42 mV. Hypoxia, induced by Na 2 S 2 O 4 1 mM (PO 2 10 Torr), depolarized the cells by about 20 mV, [Na + ] i increased by 21 mM and E Na dropped to about 35 mV. One millimolar of CoCl 2 depressed, or blocked, the effects of Na 2 S 2 O 4 on [Na + ] i but did not affect hypoxic depolarization. Voltage-clamping at −70 mV, while delivering pulses of different amplitudes, produced only small (about 10 pA) and slow TTX-insensitive inward currents. Fast and large (TTX-sensitive) inward currents were not detected. The cell conductance (measured with voltage ramps) was less than 1 nS. It was not affected by hypoxia but was depressed by cobalt. Voltage ramps elicited small inward currents in control and hypoxic solutions that were much smaller than those induced by barium (presumably enhancing calcium currents). Also, normoxic and hypoxic currents had lower thresholds and their troughs were at more negative voltages than in the presence of Ba 2+ . All currents were blocked by 1 mM CoCl 2 suggesting that, at this concentration, cobalt exerted a nonspecific effect on glomus membrane channels. Hypoxia induced a large [Na + ] i increase (presumably through inflow), but very small voltage-gated inward currents. Thus, Na + increases (inflow) probably occurred by disturbing a Na + /K + exchange mechanism and not by activation of voltage-gated channels.
A Chamber Designed for Studying the Effects of Photoperiod on Insect Development

We designed a photoperiod cabinet offering several advantages over published types. It has front access to facilitate entry and manipulation of insects. Large dimensions make it suitable for photoperiod work with immature stages of insects which require large quantities of rearing media and which must remain with the production media for sustenance. The light compartment is separated from the test chamber by 2 layers of glass, has a blower for continuous air exchange, and has a black polyethylene top, all of which minimize the effect of heat generated during the light phase. When used in series, the test compartments are connected by a common, light-shielded, air-exchange system that circulates a common stream of air among all chambers to further minimize temperature and humidity fluctuations. When 3 chambers were set on different photoperiods in a temperature and humidity-controlled room, maximum variation between chambers was ±0.5°F and ±2% RH.
Estolide production with modified clay catalysts and process conditions

The 20% yields of estolides prepared from oleic acid and meadowfoam oil fatty acids are improved when the montmorillonite clay catalysts are modified to increase their activity. Changes we explored included acidifying the clay, treating to increase the surface area of clay to introduce new active sites, and decreasing the ionic character of the clay surface to enhance adsorption of the fatty acids. We also evaluated the use of higher levels of clay in the reactions. Clays treated with Fe3+ salts increase the estolide yield from 21 to 27%, a 28% increase. Clay catalysts were also treated with surface-active reagents. The most active were cationic surfactants, and montmorillonite clays treated with cetyltrimethylammonium chloride increased the estolide yield to 30%. Estolide yields could not be improved beyond 30% by increasing the amount of clay. However, nitrogen sparging increases the efficiency of stirring and increased the estolide yield to 35% estolide.
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis in Five Chihuahua Dogs

An acute to chronic idiopathic necrotizing meningoencephalitis was diagnosed in 5 Chihuahua dogs aged between 1.5 and 10 years. Presenting neurologic signs included seizures, blindness, mentation changes, and postural deficits occurring from 5 days to 5.5 months prior to presentation. Cerebrospinal fluid analyses from 2 of 3 dogs sampled were consistent with an inflammatory disease. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain of 2 dogs demonstrated multifocal loss or collapse of cortical gray/white matter demarcation hypointense on T1-weighted images, with T2-weighted hyperintensity and slight postcontrast enhancement. Multifocal asymmetrical areas of necrosis or collapse in both gray and white matter of the cerebral hemispheres was seen grossly in 4 brains. Microscopically in all dogs, there was a severe, asymmetrical, intensely cellular, nonsuppurative meningoencephalitis usually with cystic necrosis in subcortical white matter. There were no lesions in the mesencephalon or metencephalon except in 1 dog. Im...
Rearing experience, stress and adrenocorticosteroids in the rhesus monkey ☆

Abstract Baseline cortisol levels and adrenocortical response to ACTH administration and chair-restraint stress were measured in rhesus monkeys reared under partial social isolation, total social isolation, and jungle conditions, 3–4 years after the rearing treatments. In contrast to expectations derived from the rodent literature on early treatment effects, no pituitary-adrenocortical effects of rearing condition were found in the monkey. From these and other data, it seems that such effects which may appear shortly after rearing treatment in the monkey are transient, and there is no long-term modification of a hormonostat mechanism regulating basal cortisol levels or adrenocortical responsivity. Other effects of stress were observed; additionally, some sex differences were noted. Adrenocortical secretion apparently fell to zero soon after termination of stress and did not recommence within the next 2 hr, indicating a rapid and complete poststress reset of some feedback mechanism for control of plasma cortisol levels. Finally, plasma levels of injected, radioactive cortisol were decreased during stress, but recovered poststress, compared with baseline conditions, suggesting a stress-induced shift in cortisol compartmentalization ratios.
FDPases of the castor bean endosperm and leaf: properties and partial purification.

Abstract Two FDPases 1 have been partially purified and characterized from castor bean endosperm and a third from the leaf of the mature plant. FDPase I, a neutral FDPase isolated from the ungerminated bean endosperm, is AMP-sensitive, and exhibits competitive inhibition kinetics between AMP and FDP. FDPase II, also a neutral FDPase, is synthesized in the endosperm during germination, is AMP-insensitive, and has high ribulose-1, 5-diphosphatase activity. FDPase III is the photosynthetic carbon cycle FDPase and has been isolated from the mature leaf; however, it is also present in the cotyledons. This latter enzyme is an alkaline FDPase and is insensitive to AMP. An extensive literature survey of the FDPases which have been characterized is included.
A novel cable-driven robotic training improves locomotor function in individuals post-stroke

A novel cable-driven robotic gait training system has been tested to improve the locomotor function in individuals post stroke. Seven subjects with chronic stroke were recruited to participate in this 6 weeks robot-assisted treadmill training paradigm. A controlled assistance force was applied to the paretic leg at the ankle through a cable-driven robotic system. The force was applied from late stance to mid-swing during treadmill training. Body weight support was provided as necessary to prevent knee buckling or toe drag. Subjects were trained 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Overground gait speed, 6 minute walking distance, and balance were evaluated at pre, post 6 weeks robotic training, and at 8 weeks follow up. Significant improvements in gait speed and 6 minute walking distance were obtained following robotic treadmill training through a cable-driven robotic system. Results from this study indicate that it is feasible to improve the locomotor function in individuals post stroke through a flexible cable-driven robot.
The role of PPARγ in carbon nanotube-elicited granulomatous lung inflammation

Although granulomatous inflammation is a central feature of many disease processes, cellular mechanisms of granuloma formation and persistence are poorly understood. Carbon nanoparticles, which can be products of manufacture or the environment, have been associated with granulomatous disease. This paper utilizes a previously described carbon nanoparticle granuloma model to address the issue of whether peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a nuclear transcription factor and negative regulator of inflammatory cytokines might play a role in granulomatous lung disease. PPARγ is constitutively expressed in alveolar macrophages from healthy individuals but is depressed in alveolar macrophages of patients with sarcoidosis, a prototypical granulomatous disease. Our previous study of macrophage-specific PPARγ KO mice had revealed an intrinsically inflammatory pulmonary environment with an elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines profile as compared to wild-type mice. Based on such observations we hypothesized that PPARγ expression would be repressed in alveolar macrophages from animals bearing granulomas induced by MWCNT instillation. Wild-type C57Bl/6 and macrophage-specific PPARγ KO mice received oropharyngeal instillations of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) (100 μg). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells, BAL fluids, and lung tissues were obtained 60 days post-instillation for analysis of granuloma histology and pro-inflammatory cytokines (osteopontin, CCL2, and interferon gamma [IFN-γ] mRNA and protein expression. In wild-type mice, alveolar macrophage PPARγ expression and activity were significantly reduced in granuloma-bearing animals 60 days after MWCNT instillation. In macrophage-specific PPARγ KO mice, granuloma formation was more extensive than in wild-type at 60 days after MWCNT instillation. PPARγ KO mice also demonstrated elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in lung tissue, laser-microdissected lung granulomas, and BAL cells/fluids, at 60 days post MWCNT exposure. Overall, data indicate that PPARγ deficiency promotes inflammation and granuloma formation, suggesting that PPARγ functions as a negative regulator of chronic granulomatous inflammation.
A disk-based join with probabilistic guarantees

One of the most common operations in analytic query processing is the application of an aggregate function to the result of a relational join. We describe an algorithm for computing the answer to such a query over large, disk-based input tables. The key innovation of our algorithm is that at all times, it provides an online, statistical estimator for the eventual answer to the query, as well as probabilistic confidence bounds. Thus, a user can monitor the progress of the join throughout its execution and stop the join when satisfied with the estimate's accuracy, or run the algorithm to completion with a total time requirement that is not much longer than other common join algorithms. This contrasts with other online join algorithms, which either do not offer such statistical guarantees or can only offer guarantees so long as the input data can fit into core memory.
Topically Administered Clindamycin in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris and Other Dermatologic Disorders

Clindamycin is a macrolide antibiotic that has been used orally and topically in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Unfortunately, oral administration is associated with pseudomembranous colitis in up to 10% of patients; consequently, it is no longer a generally accepted form of acne therapy. Topical application is an effective, safer alternative. Topical formulations may be extemporaneously prepared or purchased as a pre-mixed hydroalcoholic solution. Adverse effects associated with topical preparations are few and mostly minor. Topical clindamycin is also used in the treatment of erythrasma, rosacea, periorificial facial dermatitis, and folliculitis.
7. Abortion Conflict as a Predictor of Lifetime Abortion and Multiple Abortions in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence and Reproductive Coercion

analytic sample included 77 sexually experienced males to date. Patients reported on SRHC receipt by doctor assessed here with 4 composite scores summed across items within each domain: sexual history taking (practices, partner number and gender, protection, past STD andHIV test, sexual identity, plans for children); counseling (reducing STD/HIV risk, correct condom use); materials provided (condoms, lubrication); and screening tests (HIV, urine-based STD). Higher scores represent greater quality of service receipt. Patient characteristics assessed included: age; race/ethnicity; sexual attraction; visit reason (annual, STD, other); time since last visit (first visit, <2 years, 2 years); and doctor’s gender. Multivariate Poisson regression analyses examined associations between patient characteristics with each SRHC composite score accounting for clinics in cluster design. This study was IRB approved. Results: Mean (SD) participant age was 20.0 (2.5); 83% were non-Hispanic Black and 8% Hispanic (29% completed Spanish ACASI). Patients were diverse in reports of sexual attraction (77% to females, 16% males, 4% both, 4% not sure); visit reason (88% annual/STDrelated, 12% other); and time since last visit (36% first visit, 56% <2 years, 8% 2 years). 25% were seen by male doctor. Although some patients reported SRHC receipt (all sexual history questions asked (21%), topics counseled (43%), materials provided (31%), tests performed (48%), respectively),many reported suboptimal SRHC receipt (no sexual history questions asked (9%), topics counseled (21%), materials provided (43%), tests performed (21%), respectively), and only 7% received all SRHC. After controlling for patient characteristics, higher sexual history taking receipt was associated with patients being non-Hispanic Black and white (vs. Hispanic) (aRR [95% CI]1⁄41.60 [1.17-2.19] & 1.70 [1.20-2.41], respectively); attracted to both sexes (vs. females only) (1.24 [1.06-1.44]); and seen for annual/ STD visit (vs. other) (2.04 [1.40-2.95]). Counseling receipt was associated with patients being attracted to females only and males only (vs. both sexes) (1.98 [1.26-3.11] & 2.41 [1.36-4.28], respectively); and 2 years since last visit (vs. <2 years) (1.36 [1.08-1.70]). Material receipt was associated with patients being seen by male doctor (vs. female) (1.66 [1.32-2.08]). STD/HIV screening receipt was associated with patients being attracted to females only and males only (vs. both sexes) (2.18 [1.71-2.76] & 2.84 [2.02-3.99], respectively); and seen for annual/STD visit (vs. other) (2.36 [1.21-4.61]). Conclusions: Study findings confirm suboptimal delivery of SRHC to all males and highlights disparities of SRHC delivery among male sub-populations (Hispanics & males attracted to both sexes). Future workneeds to improveproviders’deliveryofqualitySRHCtoallmales. Sources of Support: CDC1H25PS003796 (Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund).
Pacemaker lead malfunction following superior vena cava stenting.

A 68-year-old man was seen in consultation for pacemaker malfunction 3 years after implantation. Four months earlier, a metal stent (WALLSTENT® Endoprosthesis: 12 mm × 40 mm) was placed for occlusion of the superior vena cava (SVC). Device interrogation revealed impaired atrial sensing, pacing thresholds, and impedance [>2000 ohms (previously 480 ohms)].The ventricular lead function was normal. Previous device interrogation …
The Role of Fluconazole in the Early Treatment and Prophylaxis of Experimental Invasive Aspergillosis

The efficacy of fluconazole against Aspergillus fumigatus was assessed in an immunosuppressed temporarily leukopenic rabbit model of invasive aspergillosis. Therapy with fluconazole at 60 or 120 mg/kg/day was begun 24 h after lethal challenge and compared to that with amphotericin B at 1.5 mg/kg/day. Fluconazole reduced mortality compared with that in untreated controls and at 120 mg/kg/day reduced the tissue burden of A. fumigatus 10- to 100-fold in liver, kidney, and lung. However, amphotericin B was more effective in sterilizing tissues. Both fluconazole and amphotericin B dramatically decreased or eliminated circulating aspergillus antigen. Prophylaxis with fluconazole, begun 48 h before sublethal challenge, sterilized liver and kidney tissues and significantly reduced the tissue burden in lung. Early treatment with fluconazole reduced mortality and reduced antigenemia but did not sterilize tissues. Fluconazole prophylaxis at these doses prevented dissemination of invasive aspergillosis. Fluconazole was shown to have activity in the early treatment and prophylaxis of experimental invasive aspergillosis.
A comparison of measured and calculated FTIR spectral radiance

Data from the ETL ground-based Fourier Transform Infrared Radiometer (FTIR) were taken during the FIRE II (Coffeyville, Kansas, 1991) and PROBE (Kavieng, Papua New Guinea, 1993) experiments. In this paper calibration problems encountered during the two experiments are discussed. The FTIR spectral measurements are compared with model (FASCODE) predictions. The model agrees with the measurements with a maximum uncertainty of 8 K of the equivalent brightness temperature. >
Recognition of a hybrid HLA-DP-associated determinant by a human T lymphocyte clone

Alloreactive, human T cell clones were derived from an HLA-DPw1-specific primed lymphocyte typing cell line by limiting dilution. The specificities of the clones were analyzed with allogeneic stimulator cells and in family segregation studies. One clone, TLC 56.94, recognized some, but not all, DPw1-positive stimulator cells and in two families, failed to proliferate in response to stimulatory cells from DPw1-homozygous individuals. The simplest explanation for these results is that TLC 56.94 recognizes a hybrid alloantigen produced by transcomplementation or transassociation between an element of DPw1 and some other gene product.
Patterns in the Offering of Hepatitis B Prophylaxis by US Emergency Department Physicians

US emergency department physicians surveyed were more likely to offer hepatitis B prophylaxis to patients after unknown hepatitis B status needlestick injuries than sexual exposures, especially consensual sex. There was no difference in willingness to offer prophylaxis with respect to patient occupation or age or with respect to ED physicians' demographic and professional characteristics.
Disorderly Discourse: Narrative, Conflict, and Inequality.

Disorderly Discourse: Narrative, Conflict, and Inequality. Charles L. Briggs. ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 1996. 248 pp.