cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stimulation of renin release by 6-oxo-prostaglandin E1 and prostacyclin.

Abstract 1 Renin release induced by 6-oxo-prostaglandin E1 (6-oxo-PGE1) was compared to release in response to prostacyclin (PGI2) and 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha in slices of rabbit renal cortex. 2 Krebs-Ringer medium bathing slices of renal cortex was collected for renin assay after four successive 20 min intervals (periods I-IV). Renin release did not increase during periods I to IV in untreated slices. Agonists were added, only once, at the beginning of period III. Between periods III and IV, the incubation solution was aspirated and replaced with fresh medium. 3 PGI2 increased renin release during period III while 6-oxo-PGE1 stimulated release during periods III and IV. 6-oxo-PGE1 stimulated renin release (24%-74%) in concentrations ranging from 1-33 microM while PGI2 stimulated release at 10 microM (60%) but not at 5 microM. 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha, 10 microM, did not release renin during period III (period III, 9%), but caused a small rise in period IV (29%). 4 6-oxo-PGE1, unlike PGI2, was stable under the incubation conditions (pH 7.4, 37 degrees C) as indicated by recovery of undiminished platelet anti-aggregatory material after 20 min. 5 In the rabbit kidney, activity of 9-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase was greatest in the cortex and negligible in the papilla, corresponding to the zonal distribution of renin. 6 The prominent and sustained in vitro renin releasing effect of 6-oxo-PGE1, as well as the cortical localization of enzyme activity capable of generating this stable prostacyclin metabolite, suggest that formation of 6-oxo-PGE1 may contribute to PGI2-induced renin release and may explain the delayed stimulation caused by 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha.
Conformal field theories and modular invariant partition functions for parafermion field theories

Abstract Parafermion conformal field theories with D2N discrete symmetry are examined in detail. The structure of field space of parafermion field theories is studied with the help of a projection operator G. Characters of the representations of the twist sector of parafermion algebra and projected characters are given. A new class of modular invariant partition functions, therefore conformal field theories, for parafermion theories are found. We argue that the principal theories correspond to the generic critical SOS models of Andrew, Baxter and Forrest.
Sphingomyelinase and ceramide analogs induce vasoconstriction and leukocyte-endothelial interactions in cerebral venules in the intact rat brain: Insight into mechanisms and possible relation to brain injury and stroke

This study was designed to test the hypothesis that the sphingomyelin-ceramide signaling pathway may be important in proinflammatory-like responses in the intact brain. Effects of neutral sphingomyelinase (N-SMase), ceramide analogs, phosphorylcholine and ceramide metabolites were studied on rat brain cerebral (cortical) venule lumen sizes, leukocyte rolling, velocity and endothelial cell wall adhesion, microvessel permeability, microvessel rupture and focal hemorrhages using in vivo high resolution TV microscopy. Perivascular and close intra-arterial administration of N-SMase, C(2)-, C(8)-, and C(16)-ceramide, but not either phosphorylcholine, C(6)-ceramide, nervonic (C(24):1) ceramide, lignoceric (C(24):0) ceramide, C(8)-ceramide-1-phosphate, glucosylceramide or 1-0-acylceramide, resulted in potent, concentration-dependent constriction (and spasm) of cortical venules, followed by increased leukocyte rolling, decreased leukocyte velocities, increased leukocyte-endothelial wall adhesion, increased venular wall permeability, postcapillary venule rupture and, often, micro-hemorrhaging at high concentrations; angiotensin II, serotonin and PGF(2alpha) didn't demonstrate these characteristics. Pretreatment with either one of three different antioxidants, including inhibitors of NF-kappaB activation, or two different Ca(2+) channel blockers either prevented or attenuated the adverse venular effects of N-SMase and the ceramides. Likewise, pretreatment with either a PKCalpha-beta antagonist or a MAP kinase antagonist also attenuated the adverse venular effects. These results suggest that N-SMase and several ceramides can result in potent venular cerebrovasospasm, leukocyte-endothelial chemoattraction, and microvessel wall permeability changes in the intact rat brain. These proinflammatory-like actions suggest that N-SMase and ceramides could produce brain-vascular damage by reperfusion injury triggering lipid peroxidation, release of reactive oxygen species and activation of diverse signaling pathways: PKCalpha-beta isozymes, MAP kinase and NF-kappaB.
Mutation of Cys672 allows recombinant expression of activatible macrophage-stimulating protein.

Abstract We readily produced recombinant pro-macrophage stimulating protein in a mammalian expression system, but it was only weakly active after proteolytic activation. Active macrophage stimulating protein is a disulfide-bonded heterodimer, but in our hands, the subunits of recombinant macrophage stimulating protein were mostly not disulfide bonded. Molecular modeling of the serine proteinase domain of macrophage stimulating protein based on homology to human trypsin suggested that macrophage stimulating protein, but not plasminogen or hepatocyte growth factor, has a Cys residue (672) in close proximity to the Cys residue (578) that forms the intersubunit disulfide link with the other subunit. We hypothesized that Cys672 might interfere with intersubunit disulfide formation by forming an intrasubunit disulfide with Cys578 and therefore mutated Cys672 to Ala. After kallikrein activation, the subunits of Cys672 → Ala macrophage stimulating protein were fully disulfide linked, and the mutant macrophage stimulating protein had 10–20-fold higher specific activity than the wild type recombinant macrophage stimulating protein.
Characteristics of Bitcoin users: an analysis of Google search data

The anonymity of Bitcoin prevents analysis of its users. We collect Google Trends data to examine determinants of interest in Bitcoin. Based on anecdotal evidence regarding Bitcoin users, we construct proxies for four possible clientele: computer programming enthusiasts, speculative investors, Libertarians and criminals. Computer programming and illegal activity search terms are positively correlated with Bitcoin interest, while Libertarian and investment terms are not.
Equation of state composition dependence

Abstract This paper discusses the status of an ongoing investigation of equation of state composition dependence. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of various plausible approximations which can be introduced into the statistical mechanical expressions for fluid mixture thermodynamic properties. The resultant composition dependence is compared with that observed for experimental data. The initial results demonstrate that neither the mean density approximation (MDA) nor the van der Waals one fluid model (VDW1) is capable of describing the composition dependence of PVTx data for the methane-normal heptane system. A modified mean density approximation (MMDA) based on the composition dependence of the virial equation is discussed.
Thermodynamic properties of the ϵ-Cr2N phase

Abstract Experimentally determined pressure-temperature-composition data for the ϵ-Cr 2 N phase have been analyzed to yield the composition variation of the partial enthalpy and entropy of the N-atoms in the subnitride. The partial thermodynamic functions have been shown to be in accord with a simple statistical model based on first order mixing behavior.
The use of class-I HLA tetramers for the detection of hepatitis C virus NS3-specific CD8+ T cells in patients with chronic infection

Abstract Background/aims: New methods to detect virus-specific T-cell responses have recently been developed. Several human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-peptide tetramers for the detection of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific CD8+ T cells are under evaluation. Methods: Evaluation of one HLA class I-tetramer (HCVNS3-2) for the detection of HCV NS3-specific CD8+ T cells in a series of 38 HLA-A2+ chronically infected patients. Results: Almost half (42%) of the patients had detectable NS3-specific CD8+ T cells. The frequencies of such cells ranged from 0.01% to 0.22% of total CD8+ T cells. No significant differences in clinical features or mean viral load were detected between patients with or without tetramer+CD8+ T cells. Conclusions: The tetramer HCVNS3-2 may be very useful for the study of the HCV-specific CD8+ immune response. Combination of this reagent with other tetramers based on other HCV peptides may help in the understanding of the immune response to the virus. However, a panel of tetramers based on several parts of the HCV polyprotein may be a mandatory requirement to explore the whole breadth of the CD8+ T-cell response against HCV and to detect that response in the majority of patients with chronic infection.
Role of arthroscopy in treating anterior instability of the athlete's shoulder.

Introduction Shoulder arthroscopy continues to use minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat the athlete's shoulder. Instability can result from trauma or repetitive forceful movements. Arthroscopy stabilization includes multiple quadrant surgery, proper capsular tensioning, and allows dynamic evaluation of the anatomic repair without disruption of the subscapularis. Methods/materials Bone deficits may limit soft tissue stabilization procedures. The arthroscope is helpful in determining the amount of glenoid bone loss, Hill-Sachs impression, positions of engagement, and associated soft tissue laxity that may compromise or alter treatment. Results A series of 450 patients are presented to review repairs-including 20 first-time dislocators, 24 revision surgeries, 330 suture anchor repairs, and 120 capsular repairs. Successful stabilization occurred in 93% of the patients studied. Conclusion Successful management of the unstable athlete's shoulder includes early intervention, near-normal range of motion, absent apprehension, and normal strength and function. Anatomic repairs provide the best opportunity for the athlete to return to their sport.
Roads, rivers, and obstacles: optimal two-dimensional path planning around linear features for a mobile agent

This paper appeared in International Journal of Robotics Research, 9, no. 6 (December 1990), pp. 67-74. Equations were redrawn in 2008.
Substance P receptor antagonist inhibits murine IgM expression in developing schistosome granulomas by blocking the terminal differentiation of intragranuloma B cells.

Abstract Schistosome granulomas make substance P (SP). CP96,345 is a nonpeptide SP receptor antagonist active in vivo. Granulomas that form in the presence of SP receptor blockade produce little IgM as compared to normal lesions. The objective of this study was to determine how CP96,345 modulates granuloma IgM production. Schistosome ova were embolized to the lungs of infected mice to induce granulomas of synchronous age. Animals received CP96,345 (50 mg/kg/day) for 4 days following egg embolization. Then granulomas were isolated from tissue and dispersed into single-cell preparations. The dispersed granuloma cells were cultured in vitro to measure IgM and cytokine secretion. Also, granuloma B cells were studied using an IgM ELISPOT assay and flow cytometry. As expected, mice treated with CP96,345 formed granulomas that secreted little IgM. Granulomas from CP96,345-treated mice, as compared to buffer-treated animals, contained few IgM-secreting B lymphocytes, but had appropriate numbers of B cells expressing surface IgM. Also decreased was the capacity of the granulomas to make IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-6. CP96,345 treatment did not affect splenocyte IgM or cytokine synthesis. These data suggest that CP96,345 inhibits granuloma IgM secretion by blocking intragranuloma B cell maturation at a terminal stage of B cell differentiation. Moreover, SP receptor antagonist affects a variety of cytokine circuits that could influence IgM B cell maturation in vivo.
HIV, HAART, and lipoprotein particle concentrations in the Women's Interagency HIV Study.

HIV infection has been associated with pro-atherogenic lipid profiles, including elevated triglycerides (TG) and decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), but also with decreased low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in both men and women [1-3]. These alterations may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) reported in HIV-infected persons [4]. Assessment of the concentrations of lipoprotein particles (which transport cholesterol and TG) may provide information regarding CVD risk beyond the standard lipid panel [5, 6], since individuals with the same LDL-C or HDL-C level may have different concentrations of LDL particles (LDL-p) or HDL particles (HDL-p). Greater small LDL-p has been associated with increased CVD risk in some studies from the general population [7, 8], while lower HDL-p (especially small HDL-p) has been associated with CVD risk [9, 10]. Few studies have examined whether HIV and HAART use are associated with lipoprotein particle concentrations after adjusting for standard lipids. A small study from the pre-HAART era found that the association of HIV with small LDL-p was attenuated after adjustment for TG [11]. The few studies from the HAART era that have found an association between HIV and lipoprotein particle concentrations did not adjust for standard lipids [12, 13]; this adjustment is desirable as elevations in TG are common after HAART initiation [2]. Using a large cohort of HIV-infected and uninfected women, we quantified the association HIV infection and current HAART use had with LDL-p and HDL-p, and examined whether any relationships found persisted after adjustment for standard lipids. To quantify particle concentrations, we employed the same nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy technique used by published HIV studies in the HAART era so that our findings could be compared to other studies.
Benchmark study on glyphosate-resistant cropping systems in the United States. Part 3: Grower awareness, information sources, experiences and management practices regarding glyphosate-resistant weeds.

BACKGROUND: A survey was conducted with nearly 1200 growers in US states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Nebraska and North Carolina) in 2005 with the objective in part of determining the awareness of the potential for development of glyphosate resistance, the experience with glyphosate-resistant (GR) weeds and the sources of information that growers had utilized for information on glyphosate resistance. Growers were asked a series of questions to determine the level of glyphosate resistance awareness and to list the sources of information used to learn about glyphosate resistance issues. RESULTS: The majority of the growers (88%) were aware of a weed's potential to evolve resistance to herbicide, while 44% were aware of state-specific documented cases of GR weeds, and 15% reported having had personal experience with GR weeds. Among sources of information concerning glyphosate resistance issues, farm publications, dealers/retailers and university/extension were the most frequent responses (41, 17 and 14% respectively). Based on a 1-10 effectiveness scale, growers ranked tillage the least effective practice (5.5) and using the correct label rates of herbicides at the proper timing for the size and type of weeds present the most effective practice (8.6) with respect to how effectively the practices mitigated the evolution of GR weeds. CONCLUSION: Results from this survey can be used by researchers, extension specialists and crop advisors further to bridge the information gap between growers and themselves and better to disseminate information concerning glyphosate resistance and glyphosate resistance management practices through more targeted information and information delivery methods.
Synthesis of 3-C-(hydroxymethyl)erythritol and 3-C-methylerythritol.

Abstract 3-C-(Hydroxymethyl)erythritol was prepared from 3-C-(hydroxymethyl)-2,3-O-isopropylidene- d -erythro-tetrofuranose (4) by hydrolysis followed by reduction, or by reduction followed by hydrolysis. Monotosylation of 4, followed by reduction with lithium aluminum hydride and hydrolysis, afforded 3-C-methylerythritol.
Adrenocortical suppression and other endocrine effects of etomidate

(+/-) Etomidate is a short-acting general anaesthetic given by the intravenous route. It has strong adrenal suppression capability initially shown in the rat and then observed in man. At present, the drug seems the most effective adrenocortical inhibitor on a molar basis in vitro. 11 beta-hydroxylase is the most sensitive target enzyme; 16 alpha-, 17 alpha-hydroxylase and cholesterol side-chain cleavage are inhibited by higher concentrations. (+) Etomidate was more active than the (+/-) and far more than the (-) stereoisomer. Etomidate blood concentrations greatly exceed those needed to block adrenal steroidogenesis both when used inappropriately by infusion for long-term sedation (such previously unrecognized drug-induced adrenal suppression has often proved fatal in severely-injured patients) and also when given in very low doses as an induction anaesthetic. Reactive ACTH increase is currently observed. Etomidate, in vivo, does not appear to affect testicular steroidogenesis although it shares an imidazole moiety with fungicide phenylimidazoles endowed with such an action. However, testosterone production may be reduced by high concentrations in vitro. Other gonadal hormones seem unchanged. Both basal and stress-induced blood prolactin levels are lowered by etomidate in the rat but probably not in man arguably through interference at brain level where the GABA-benzodiazepine receptor complex could be directly involved. Hence, endocrine and neuroendocrine interferences are unique non-anaesthetic effects of etomidate.
Prominent reduction in pyramidal neurons density in the orbitofrontal cortex of elderly depressed patients.

Background Elderly depressed patients have more vascular hyperintensities in frontal white matter and basal ganglia than elderly control subjects. Cell pathology that might be related to increased vascular hyperintensities has not been examined. Methods Postmortem samples from the orbitofrontal cortex (ORB) were collected in 15 elderly subjects with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 11 age-matched control subjects. Cell packing density of neurons and glia, density of pyramidal and nonpyramidal neurons, and cortical and laminar width were measured. Results The overall (layers I–VI) packing density of ORB neurons with pyramidal morphology was markedly decreased in MDD (by 30%) as compared with control subjects. Further laminar analysis of pyramidal neurons density revealed significant reductions in layers IIIc and V in MDD. In contrast, in MDD the density of nonpyramidal neurons and glia and cortical and laminar width were comparable to control values. Conclusions In elderly subjects with depression, the density of pyramidal neurons in the ORB was particularly low in cortical layers V and III, the origin of prefronto-striatal and prefronto-cortical and prefronto-amygdalar projections. Degeneration of neurons furnishing these projections might be related to the white matter hyperintensities previously observed. Neuronal pathology seems to be more severe in elderly than in younger subjects with MDD.
A review of remote sensing methods for biomass feedstock production.

Abstract Monitoring and maximization of bioenergy yield from biomass feedstock has recently become a critically important goal for researchers. Remote sensing represents a potential method to monitor and estimate biomass so as to increase biomass feedstock production from energy crops. This paper reviews the biophysical properties of biomass and remote sensing methods for monitoring energy crops for site-specific management. While several research studies have addressed the agronomic dimensions of this approach, more research is required on perennial energy crops in order to maximize the yield of biomass feedstock. Assessment of established methods could lead to a new strategy to monitor energy crops for the adoption of site-specific management in biomass feedstock production. In this article, satellite, aerial and ground-based remote sensing’s were reviewed and focused on the spatial and temporal resolutions of imagery to adopt for site-specific management. We have concluded that the biomass yield prediction, the ground-based sensing is the most suitable to establish the calibration model and reference for aerial and satellite remote sensing. The aerial and satellite remote sensing are required for wide converge of planning and policy implementations of biomass feedstock production systems.
Structured tutoring for at risk children in the early years

Abstract I estimate the effects of a program of one-to-one instruction (tutoring) in reading and language for at-risk children in grades 1–3. Thirty college and graduate students tutored more than 100 elementary school students during Spring, 1991. Tutors were trained in the techniques used by Reading Recovery and Success for All. Program effects were large and positive. Across all tutored students, 10 hours of tutoring increased ITBS scores by .25–.30 of a grade-equivalent. Students with above-average attentiveness and participation during tutoring averaged a gain of .66 of a grade-equivalent after 10 hours tutoring. Tutoring also showed a positive effect on teachers' judgment of students' conduct. I conclude that, properly trained, nonprofessional tutors offer a cost-effective means to increase the reading performance of at-risk children in the early grades.
Origin and Genesis of Fracture Porosity in Viola Limestone (Ordovician): ABSTRACT

Analysis of surface exposures of the Viola Limestone is important to understanding Viola oil and gas production trends in the Marietta basin of southern Oklahoma. Surface exposures of the Viola Limestone in the Arbuckle Mountains and Criner Hills of Oklahoma indicate a critical dependence of fracture development on structural position and lithology. Maximum fracturing occurs in tensional zones along fold crests, rather than in areas characterized by intense compressional stress. Fracturing also appears to be related to lithology. The basal, cherty unit has a fracture density approximately two to four times greater than that of the upper, more calcareous units. These relationships could be important to understanding oil and gas occurrence in the Viola Limestone, because th same controls may dictate distribution of fracture porosity in the subsurface. End_of_Article - Last_Page 411------------
A theoretical approach to exciton trapping in systems with arbitrary trap concentration

Abstract A simple approach to the trapping of moving quasiparticles in solids, valid for arbitrary concentration of traps, is developed. While the analysis is presented in the context of Frenkel excitons in molecular crystals, its applicability is general. A central result is that observable quantities such as the liminescence intensity, the quantum yield, and also the surviving number of quasiparticles can be obtained from exact expressions valid for a single trap by replacing the self-propagator by a sum over propagation in the trap-influenced region. Arbitrary concentrations and arbitrary nature of motion including arbitrary degree of coherence can thus be addressed within a unified framework of exciton dynamics.
Possible mechanism(s) for permeability recovery of venules during histamine application.

Abstract Histamine is known to cause a substantial increase in the permeability of venules to both water and proteins. However, this increase is transient, i.e. , the initially elevated permeability returns toward control levels, or “recovers,” even during continuous histamine stimulation. In this investigation, we attempted to identify the possible chemical signal(s) initiating the permeability recovery process in single venules of rat mesentery. Specifically, we tested whether histamine's binding to H2 receptors and/or the production of prostacyclin by endothelial cells was involved in this process. To achieve this aim, the time course of histamine-induced changes in permeability to α-lactalbumin was measured in the presence of H2 receptor antagonist (cimetidine) or of prostacyclin synthetase inhibitor (tranylcypromine), respectively. Permeability of individually perfused microvessels was measured using fluorescence microscopy. The results demonstrated that permeability recovery was not affected by the H2 receptor antagonist but was suppressed or even abolished by the prostacyclin synthesis inhibitor. Therefore, these results suggest that the production of prostacyclin by endothelial cells might serve as one chemical signal to initiate the permeability recovery process, whereas histamine's binding to H2 receptors is not involved in this phenomenon.
Penile prosthetic implant for the treatment of organic impotence

Summary Seventeen patients with organic impotence were treated by implantation of a prosthetic device into the penis. Surgical results were excellent in fifteen, and the prosthesis was removed in two because of infection. One patient requested that the prosthesis be removed two years after implantation. Those benefiting most were sexually active prior to either major surgery or accidental trauma, and patients who have much to gain from this procedure are often under the primary care of a surgeon. Knowledge of the effectiveness of a penile prosthesis can greatly add to the total care and happiness of the impotent patient.
Dimerizations of methylenecyclopropanes

Abstract The thermal [2+2] dimerization of methylenecyclopropanes, including methylenecyclopropane itself, is discussed. The effects of structural features on the ability of this reaction to occur are discussed in terms of the probable mechanism.
Electrochemical reduction of bisulfite in mildly acidic buffers: Kinetics of sulfur dioxide - Bisulfite interconversion

The reduction of bisulfite on a bismuth rotating disk electrode (RDE) was studied in aqueous buffered electrolytes over the pH range 3−6. Clearly defined limiting currents were observed in all solutions examined; however, their magnitudes were not only smaller than those expected for a process limited by the diffusion of bisulfite from the bulk solution, but were also found to decrease as the media became less acidic. This behavior was attributed to a preceding homogeneous process that generates sulfur dioxide, the actual electroactive species. UV−visible absorption−reflection spectroscopy measurements at a RDE showed that in the potential region in which such limiting currents are observed, dithionite is produced with 100% faradaic efficiency. Results of rotation rate staircase scan amperometric RDE experiments were found to be consistent with the conversion of bisulfite into SO2 proceeding via a general acid catalysis mechanism, and allowed values for the rate constants for the following reactions to be...
Attenuation by 4-aminopyridine of delayed vasorelaxation by troglitazone

Troglitazone and other thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are thought to relax arterial smooth muscle by directly inhibiting calcium channels in smooth muscle cell membranes. However, until recently such inhibition was only examined acutely, ie, within only seconds or minutes after administration of these agents to arterial smooth muscle preparations. Recently, a novel experiment was reported in which troglitazone caused a 2-phase relaxation of perfused resistance arteries, namely, an acute relaxation (within the first 20 minutes of treatment), which was blocked by a nonselective calcium channel blocker and a delayed relaxation (after 2 hours), which was not. We sought to determine if any of the 4 major potassium (K) channels in vascular smooth muscle play a role in the delayed relaxation. We incubated vascular contractile rings prepared from ventral tail arteries of rats with physiological buffer containing either 0 or 4 μmol/L troglitazone for 3 hours (4 μmol/L is typical of plasma levels from diabetic patients). Different K channel inhibitors (1 mmol/L 4-aminopyridine [4AP]; 1 mmol/L tetraethylammonium [TEA]; 5 μmol/L glyburide; 20 μmol/L barium) were coadministered with each level of troglitazone in additional preparations. Then these arterial rings were contracted with either norepinephrine (NE), arginine vasopressin (AVP), or high-K buffer. All contractions were significantly relaxed by troglitazone (P < .05). Only 4AP significantly attenuated troglitazone’s relaxation of NE and AVP contractions (P < .05), though not high-K-induced contractions. TEA, glyburide, and barium had no such influence. Thus, for both adrenergic (NE) and nonadrenergic (AVP) contractions, the delayed arterial vasorelaxation by troglitazone may be mediated at least in part by activation of 4AP-sensitive K channels. Furthermore, the specific subtype of the channels involved is most likely those bound in the outer cell membrane where their effectiveness in terms of mediating relaxation would depend on an intact transmembrane K ion gradient.
Present methods of drying and conditioning wood for use

This has been a broad, and necessarily rather superficial, review of the ways in which wood is dried in various forms and for various uses. Much of the field of wood drying is not radically new or different from what it was many years ago. Yet the search for new approaches and new techniques goes on, as does the search for a better basic understanding of the relationship between wood and water and of the drying process itself,. I do not look for any revolution in wood drying in the next few years—but this does not mean that exciting progress is not being made. Our modern age demands an improved technology of wood drying, just as technologies of many kinds are developing and improving to make materials of all kinds more useful to man. The current decade was labelled at its onset as “ The Golden Sixties” and the time of the “ Second Industrial Revolution.” Certainly in wood drying, no less than in other areas of industrial processing, we must work to realize the implications and potential of this age. Wood is one of our oldest raw materials, and through this development it can also continue to be one of our most useful and valuable raw materials.
Contributing Factors in Trafficking from South Asia

This pioneering research in the field of human trafficking from South Asia is an important study as the subject population has not been studied in social work literature. Victims of trafficking who were working as exotic dancers in South Asian bars in the United States were studied qualitatively. The method of recruiting, transporting, putting to work, and maintaining victims within the trafficking system is explored through interaction and observation revealing victims' personal accounts. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo and experts' analysis. The study results support a dynamic theoretical framework in which social exchanges and choice of migration networks increase South Asian women's vulnerability to trafficking.
Narrative Politics in Historical Fictions for Children

In "Narrative Politics in Historical Fictions for Children," John Streamas points out that narrative theory and ethnic studies need to ask each other basic questions before a reading of race in children's literature can be useful. Is the literature merely a reflection of the experience of adult writers and parents? That is, must we read the literature as nostalgic, reflecting a developmental bias? Or does it engage children on their own contemporary terms? Are children themselves capable of racism, even if only as extensions of adult racial imaginations? Certainly the growing number of children's books written by writers of color promises progress, Streamas writes, but the constraints of Western narrative traditions, especially the centering of individual characters and the decentering of setting, may thwart that progress. Critics who would dodge the trap of essentializing in analyses of adult culture still fall into the trap when discussing children's narratives. Streamas argues that children's culture cannot aim for enlightenment until their stories replace narratives of individual development with narratives of cause and context. John Streamas, "Narrative Politics in Historical Fictions for Children." page 2 of 7 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 10.2 (2008): Thematic Issue, Racialized Narratives for Children. Ed. C. Richard King and John Streamas
Efficacy of acacia, pectin, and guar gum-based fiber supplementation in the control of hypercholesterolemia

Abstract We examined the lipid-lowering effects of an acacia, pectin, and guar gum-based product marketed as a fiber supplement, in 50 adults (mean age= 55.4 years) who had an LDL-C ⩾ 4.1 mmol/l (160 mg/dl), or ⩾ 3.4 mmol/l (130 mg/dl) if at least two coronary risk factors were present. All subjects were instructed on a Step I diet not to exceed 30% calories in fat, and half of subjects were randomly assigned to receive 2 packets of the fiber product, containing a total of 9g of fiber. Baseline lipids, medical history, and dietary factors were similar in the two groups. Analysis of covariance adjusted for age, weight change, saturated fat and cholesterol intake, and baseline lipids, demonstrated reductions of 0.4 mmol/l (15.7 mg/dl) in both total (p=0.03) and LDL-cholesterol (p=0.01) after four weeks among those in the fiber supplement group, relative to the diet-only group. A trend of greater lipid reductions and weight loss in the fiber supplement group continued after 12 weeks on the prescribed regimen. Compliance to the prescribed packet count averaged 83% in those completing four weeks (n=21) and 94% in those completing 12 weeks (n=18) on the product. Gastrointestinal discomfort was the most common side effect, documented in 15 (60%) of those initially assigned to the product. Fiber nutrient supplementation with a commercially available acacia, pectin, and guar gum-based product may provide modest short-term benefits in reducing total and LDL-cholesterol, beyond that achieved by a standard cholesterol-lowering diet. The long-term benefits of such products await the conduct of larger, longer-term studies.
From the growth cone surface to the cytoskeleton: one journey, many paths.

The mechanisms that guide axons through a complex cellular landscape to reach appropriate target cells are central to our understanding of neural development. Decades of work suggest that guidance information is interpreted by signaling machinery that controls the complex and dynamic cytoskeleton at the growth cone leading edge. Recent insights from the areas of signal transduction and cell biology have identified a number of key components that play central roles in this chain of command, including members of the Ena/VASP and WASP family of proteins. Although our understanding of the precise mechanism by which these proteins control actin assembly is still incomplete, these players are emerging as potential sites of integration that translate convergent signals into directional cell movement. This brief review explores some of the most recent articles on this topic.
An energy-efficient MAC protocol for underwater wireless acoustic networks

We propose a distributed, scalable, energy-efficient MAC protocol that works despite long, unknown propagation delays of the underwater acoustic medium. This protocol can be used for delay-tolerant applications such as underwater ecological sensor networks between energy-limited nodes. Our protocol differs significantly from ALOHA, MACA, and MACAW protocols in that energy is the main performance metric in our case rather than bandwidth utilization. It is shown that under a realistic underwater sensor network scenario, our proposed MAC protocol wastes only 3 percent of the transmit energy due to collisions, when an average number of 1-hop neighbors is 5, and the duty cycle is 0.004. This distributed, scalable MAC protocol has the potential to serve as a primer for the development of energy-efficient MAC protocols for future underwater sensor networks
Generation and reactivity of sterically hindered bicyclo[3.1.0]hex-1-enes

Abstract 2-t-butylbicyclo[3.1.0]hex-1-ene dimerizes primarily by a [σ+ π] way, whereas 2,5-di-t-butylbicyclo[3.1.0]hex-1-ene undergoes an unusual hydrogen shift reaction to 1,3-di-t-butyl-2-methylcyclopentadiene.
Solid freeform fabrication of designer scaffolds of hyaluronic acid for nerve tissue engineering

The field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine will tremendously benefit from the development of three dimensional scaffolds with defined micro- and macro-architecture that replicate the geometry and chemical composition of native tissues. The current report describes a freeform fabrication technique that permits the development of nerve regeneration scaffolds with precisely engineered architecture that mimics that of native nerve, using the native extracellular matrix component hyaluronic acid (HA). To demonstrate the flexibility of the fabrication system, scaffolds exhibiting different geometries with varying pore shapes, sizes and controlled degradability were fabricated in a layer-by-layer fashion. To promote cell adhesion, scaffolds were covalently functionalized with laminin. This approach offers tremendous spatio-temporal flexibility to create architecturally complex structures such as scaffolds with branched tubes to mimic branched nerves at a plexus. We further demonstrate the ability to create bidirectional gradients within the microfabricated nerve conduits. We believe that combining the biological properties of HA with precise three dimensional micro-architecture could offer a useful platform for the development of a wide range of bioartificial organs.
Trace element distribution in the rat cerebellum

Abstract Spatial distributions and concentrations of trace elements (TE) in the brain are important because TE perform catalytic and structural functions in enzymes which regulate brain function and development. We have investigated the distributions of TE in rat cerebellum. Structures were sectioned and analyzed by the Synchrotron Radiation Induced X-ray Emission (SRIXE) method using the NSLS X-26 white-light microprobe facility. Advantages important for TE analysis of biological specimens with X-ray microscopy include short time of measurement, high brightness and flux, good spatial resolution, multielemental detection, good sensitivity, and nondestructive irradiation. Trace elements were measured in thin rat brain sections of 20 μm thickness. The analyses were performed on sample volumes as small as 0.2 nl with Minimum Detectable Limits (MDL) of 50 ppb wet weight for Fe, 100 ppb wet weight for Cu, and Zn, and 1 ppm wet weight for Pb. The distribution of TE in the molecular cell layer, granule cell layer and fiber tract of rat cerebella was investigated. Both point analyses and two-dimensional semiquantitative mapping of the TE distribution in a section were used. All analyzed elements were observed in each structure of the cerebellum except mercury which was not observed in granule cell layer or fiber tract. This approach permits an exacting correlation of the TE distribution in complex structure with the diet, toxic elements, and functional status of the animal.
HLA-A2 homozygosity but not heterozygosity is associated with Alzheimer disease.

AD is associated with the A2 allele of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA). However, it is not currently known whether there is any difference between A2 homozygotes and A2 heterozygotes. The authors studied 458 patients with AD and found that A2 homozygotes had earlier onset of AD than either A2 heterozygotes (5.4 years, p = 0.002) or those without A2 (5.2 years, p = 0.003). The “recessive” nature of this association suggests that loss of function at the HLA-A locus or a closely linked gene is associated with AD.
Combined radioimmunoassay of four steroids in one ml of plasma: II. Androgens

Using partially specific antisera combined with a 1 step celite microcolumn chromatography, androstenedione (A), 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), testosterone (T), and androst-5-ene-3beta, 17beta-diol (delta 5-diol) could be measured in the same 1 ml aliquot of plasma. The chromatographic step removed known interfering steroids and conferred specificity to the assay. After correction for recovery the sensitivities, expressed as ng/ml of plasma, were respectively: 0.025 for A, 0.05 for DHT, 0.025 for T, and 0.1 for delta5-diol. Recovery experiments, using steroid-free plasma to which various amounts of each steroid were added and then measured in the assay in 12 replicates, confirmed adequate accuracy and precision. The ability to measure multiple androgens in small volumes of plasma should permit comprehensive evaluation of the role of these steroids in health and disease.
The Ways of PARP

Two papers in this issue of Cell describe two roles of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in modulating chromatin structure: as a structural component replacing linker histone (Kim et al., 2004) and as a constituent of a corepressor complex poised to dismiss repression upon receipt of an activating signal (Ju et al., 2004).
Geochemistry of surface water in alpine catchments in central Colorado, USA: Resolving host-rock effects at different spatial scales

The US Geological Survey is conducting a study of surface-water quality in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado, an area of approximately 55,000 km 2 . Using new and existing geologic maps, the more than 200 rock formations represented in the area were arranged into 17 groups based on lithologic similarity. The dominant regional geologic feature affecting water quality in central Colorado is the Colorado mineral belt (CMB), a NE-trending zone hosting many polymetallic vein or replacement deposits, and porphyry Mo deposits, many of which have been mined historically. The influence of the CMB is seen in lower surface-water pH (<5), and higher concentrations of SO
A More Rational Climatic Moisture Index

A climatic moisture index (Im) used extensively by C. W. Thornthwaite and others is examined, and a modified version of the index is proposed. Arbitrary limits [−100 ≤ Im≤ 100 (∞− 1)], combined with its dimensionless property, make the original index difficult to interpret. Our refined version also is dimensionless, but the limits have been recast so that −1 ≤ Im≤ 1. Wet climates have positive values of Im while dry climates are negative, and the index is symmetric about zero. The spatial distribution of our modified annual-average moisture index over the world's continents is mapped and described.
Discordant Comrades: Identities and Loyalties on the South African Left By Allison Drew. Aldershot, Hampshire: Ashgate, 2000. 282p. $74.95

Drawing on a wealth of new information made available by the opening of the Comintern archives, Drew sheds the light of hindsight on the relationship between the Communist Party of South Africa (CPSA) and, in turn, the Soviet Comintern, the South African liberation movement, and the white and black trade union movements in the first half of the twentieth century. This rich book makes a unique contribution to our understanding of ties between the Comintern and its satellite parties as well as the early history of the South African antiapartheid movement. There are only two other major books on this period of party history, and both are memoirs of party members who try to establish a particular version of the record. Drew contests the teleology of their accounts of communist party history and instead weaves a contingent narrative that identifies major turning points that narrowed the possibility for a radical reorientation of the party (p. 281). It was not inevitable that the party would split and finally dissolve in the way it did—other outcomes were possible, almost until the end. That they were not taken was the layered result of personal and ideological rivalries and party alliances that made socialism, and socialists, perpetually weak and vulnerable in the context of South African politics.
Measurements of the Flowfield Interaction Between Tandem Cylinders

This paper presents the most recent measurements from an ongoing investigation of the unsteady wake interference between a pair of circular cylinders in tandem. The purpose of this investigation is to help build an in-depth experimental database for this canonical flow configuration that embodies the effects of component interaction in landing gear noise. This new set of measurements augments the previous database at the primary Reynolds number (based on tunnel speed and cylinder diameter) of 1.66 105 in four important respects. First, better circumferential resolution of surface pressure fluctuations is obtained via cylinder "clocking". Second, higher resolution particle image velocimetry measurements of the shear layer separating from the cylinders are achieved. Third, the effects of simultaneous boundary layer trips along both the front and rear cylinders, versus front cylinder alone in the previous measurements, are studied. Lastly, on-surface and off-surface characteristics of unsteady flow near the "critical" cylinder spacing, wherein the flow switches intermittently between two states that are characteristic of lower and higher spacings, are examined. This critical spacing occurs in the middle of a relatively sudden change in the drag of either cylinder and is characterized by a loud intermittent noise and a flow behavior that randomly transitions between shear layer attachment to the rear cylinder and constant shedding and rollup in front of it. Analysis of this bistable flow state reveals much larger spanwise correlation lengths of surface pressure fluctuations than those at larger and smaller values of the cylinder spacing.
Work in progress - building a Learning Community using computer gaming

Many universities are interested in integrating interdisciplinary programs. Perhaps a first step is to implement interdisciplinary learning communities into existing curricula. Learning communities can provide senior level students with pre-professional experience through interdisciplinary projects. Furthermore, seniors are more engaged in their disciplines and capable of the critical thinking required. Several senior classes are currently participating in building a multi-user networking game. Gaming is an ideal theme because it is fun, cross disciplinary and has real-world application. All of the major games currently released are the product of large, multi-disciplinary teams. Nicholls anticipates that replicating that team in a university setting will motivate students and increase learning. Students and faculty will decide the nature of the game, the goals for the class, and boundaries of the assignment. This paper describes current work and plans, so that future educators can replicate and improve upon these processes.