cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neurotransmitter synthesis, storage and release by aggregating cell cultures of rat brain

Abstract Rotation-mediated aggregating cell cultures of mechanically dissociated fetal (15–16 days gestation) rat brains between 25 and 35 days in vitro were examined for their ability to synthesize neurotransmitters and putative neurotransmitters from radioactively labeled precursors added to the culture medium. Cultures derived from whole brain synthesized [3H]acetylcholine from [3H]choline, [3H]γ-aminobutyric acid from l -[3H]glutamic acid, [3H]dopamine from l -[3H]tyrosine, [3H]dopamine and [3H]norepinephrine from l -[3H]dihydroxyphenylalanine, and [3H]serotonin from l -[3H]tryptophan. Veratridine increased and tetrodotoxin decreased the rate of [3H]-dopamine synthesized by aggregates derived from midbrain plus hindbrain. In chase experiments in which aggregates were incubated for 4 h with radioactively labeled precursors and then for 4 h with non-radioactively labeled precursors, addition of veratridine (50 μM) during the second 4 h incubation significantly decreased the amounts of radioactively labeled acetylcholine, l -glutamic acid, dopamine and serotonin recovered from aggregates. Tetrodotoxin (5 μM) present during the chase significantly increased the amounts of [3H]acetylcholine and [3H]dopamine recovered from the aggregates. In addition, reserpine (4 μM) markedly depleted [3H]dopamine from aggregates in these experiments. These results indicate that these cultured cells synthesized neurotransmitters and in addition suggest that some of these compounds are stored by and released from electrically active cells within the aggregates.
Global Fit of Rotational Transitions in the Ground Torsional State of Methanol

Abstract We have carried out a global fit of a ν t = 0 and J ≤ 20 methanol data set containing some 730 microwave lines ( K ≤ 12) and 1320 Fourier-transform far-infrared transitions ( K ≤ 14), using a theoretical model and computer program successfully applied previously to acetaldehyde torsion-rotation levels below the barrier. Microwave lines were assigned a measurement uncertainty of either 4 kHz (supersonic jet Fourier-transform measurements) or 50 kHz. Far-infrared lines were assigned a measurement uncertainty of 0.0002 cm −1 . A very satisfactory fit was obtained with 43 adjusted and 3 fixed parameters, yielding an overall weighted standard deviation of 1.04. (It must be noted, however, that microwave measurements with K ≥ 13 had to be excluded from the fit.) We conclude that the existing model is capable of fitting ν t = 0 methanol rotational transitions to experimental accuracy, provided that K values are restricted as stated above. We believe that interactions of high- K ν t = 0 levels with low- K ν t = 1 levels, leading to level shifts on the order of a few MHz, is the cause of our high- K fitting difficulties.
Therapeutic Options in Managing Hyponatremia: Focus on Arginine Vasopressin Receptor Antagonists

PurposeTo describe the available and emerging treatment options for acute and chronic hyponatremia, including the efficacy, safety, and recommendations regarding appropriate use, monitoring, and treatment individualization.SummaryArginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor antagonists provide an opportunity to address some of the unmet medical needs of patients with hyponatremia. Traditional therapies, including diuretics, fluid restriction, and saline infusions, have variable effects, potential toxicities, and issues with patient adherence. Furthermore, these therapies are not specific to the underlying pathophysiology causing the hyponatremia. The recently approved AVP receptor antagonists target the underlying abnormal release of AVP that is very likely at the core of the physiology.ConclusionManagement of hyponatremia requires balancing the benefits of therapeutic intervention for the restoration of normal serum sodium against the potential risks. The data available indicate that this new class of medications...
Apoptosis in cardiac development.

Cell degeneration, as a phenomenon accompanying developmental processes, was originally described over a century ago. Apoptosis, a term introduced approximately three decades ago, has occupied investigators particularly with respect to cell and tissue kinetics, emphasizing its role in the disposal of supernumerary, mal-instructed or damaged cells. Although apoptosis is mostly related to developmental processes, evidence has been gathered indicating that it may also perform other roles. In this review, which concentrates on cardiac development, we examine focal apoptosis and subsequent signal cascades in combination with timed morphogenetic events. Apoptosis mainly occurs in the non-myocardial compartment of the embryonic heart, a compartment that consists of cells derived from the endocardium, the epicardium and the neural crest. The last-mentioned population invades the outflow tract and the atrioventricular endocardial cushions. The signalling cascade seems to involve the activation of latent transforming growth factor beta, resulting in cardiomyocyte migration and subsequent myocardialization of the endocardial cushions. Aberrant apoptosis accompanies cardiac anomalies. Furthermore, an apoptotic population is found surrounding the developing conduction system. A possible role for differentiation is suggested.
The Hamiltonian Structure of the Spin 4 Operator Algebra

Abstract We discuss the general relation between the operator content of two-dimensional conformal field theories and the algebraic structures of integrable nonlinear differential equations. As an application, we use the Gel'fand-Dickey algebra of formal pseudodifferential operators to write down the commutation relations of the spin-4 operator algebra that arises in conformal field theory.
Fluoroarterenol: a Fluorine Isostere of Norepinephrine

IN an investigation of the enzymatic methylation of norepinephrine, certain of the isosteres of this neurohormone, designed as antagonists of this system, have been synthesized. This communication deals with D,L-3,4-dihydroxy-(α-fluoromethyl)benzylalcohol, fluoroarterenol, its synthesis and biological properties.
Internationally comparable health indices.

One of the most intractable problems in international health research is the lack of comparability of health measures across countries or cultures. We develop a cross-country measurement model for health in which functional limitations, self-reports of health, and a physical measure are interrelated to construct health indices. To establish comparability across countries, we define the measurement scales by the physical measure while other parameters vary by country to reflect cultural and linguistic differences in response patterns. We find significant cross-country variation in response styles of health reports along with variability in genuine health that is related to differences in national income. Our health indices achieve satisfactory reliability of about 80% and their gradients by age, income, and wealth for the most part show the expected patterns. Moreover, the health indices correlate much more strongly with income and net worth than self reported health measures.
Science and religion: Getting ready for the future

I explore three challenges for the current dialogue between science and religion: the challenges from hermeneutics, feminisms, and postmodernisms. Hermeneutics, defined as the practice and theory of interpretation and understanding, not only deals with questions of interpreting texts and data but also examines the role and use of language in religion and in science, but it should not stop there. Results of the post-Kuhnian discussion are used to exemplify a wider range of hermeneutical issues, such as the ideological potential of scientific concepts, the dynamics of interdisciplinarity, and the significance of the socioeconomic situatedness of science and religion. Feminist research analyzes the consequences of the interplay of masculine, feminine, and gender typologies in religion and science. Examples from the history of science as well as current scientific conceptualizations indicate that beliefs in the inferiority of woman form part of our inherited scientific, religious, and metaphysical framework. It is argued that postmodernism in its most constructive form shares the best fruits of modernity, especially of the Enlightenment, while avoiding some of its most serious mistakes. In conclusion, reflecting on the three publics engaged in the dialogue between science and religion—academe, religious communities, and societies—I offer constructive suggestions and critical observations concerning the future of this dialogue.
Nuclide imaging and computed tomography in cerebral vascular disease

This report presents our experience with computed tomographic and radionuclide scans in 224 patients with ischemic or hemorrhagic infarcts or intracerebral hematomas secondary to cerebral occlusive vascular diseases. The results vary according to the site of vascular occlusion. The radionuclide angiograms and static scintigrams show four distinct patterns in cases of occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. Computed tomographic scans exhibit less variation in appearance and have a higher sensivitity in cases of recent ischemic infarction. The "tentorial confluence sign" is an important finding on static scintigrams in patients with occipital infarction; if this sign is not present, this diagnosis should be suspect. Earlier reports have established the value of computed tomography and radionuclide scans in the evaluation of cerebral infarction. 1–3 In individual cases, however, each of these modalities may render nondiagnostic or false negative findings; combining both types of examinations and comparing results yield a greater likelihood of an accurate diagnosis of cerebrovascular disease. Computed tomography is clearly more valuable than radionuclide scans in the diagnosis and follow-up of hemorrhagic infarcts or parenchymal hematomas.
Systemic Osteoprotegerin Gene Therapy Restores Tumor-induced Bone Loss in a Therapeutic Model of Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis

Enhanced production of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and its binding to RANK on the osteoclasts have been associated with osteolysis in breast cancer bone metastasis. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a decoy receptor that prevents RANKL–RANK interaction. This study determined the effects of sustained expression of OPG using a recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vector in mouse model of osteolytic breast cancer. Bone metastasis was established by intracardiac injection of the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-435. Following this, mice were administered a one-time intramuscular injection of rAAV encoding either OPG.Fc (OPG) or green fluorescent protein (GFP). Mice were killed 1 month later and the effects of therapy on tumor growth and bone remodeling were evaluated. Bioluminescence imaging showed significant reduction of tumor growth in bone of OPG.Fc-treated mice. Micro-computed tomography (μCT) analysis and histomorphometry of the tibia indicated significant protection of trabecular and cortical bones after OPG.Fc therapy. Despite the prevention of bone loss and tumor growth in bone, OPG.Fc therapy failed to provide long-term survival. OPG.Fc-treated mice developed more bone than age-matched normal mice, indicating a requirement for regulated transgene expression. Results of this study indicate the potential of rAAV-OPG therapy for reducing morbidity and mortality in breast cancer patients with osteolytic bone damage.
Annual Production by the Slimy Sculpin Population in a Small Minnesota Trout Stream

Abstract Annual production by the slimy sculpin, Cottus cognatus Richardson, was estimated at 59.4 kg/hectare wet weight for the period July, 1970, to July, 1971, in Valley Creek, Minnesota. Mark-and-recapture population estimates made by electrofishing and aging with otoliths were the bases for determining mean biomass and instantaneous growth rates. Annual turnover ratio, i.e., ratio of annual production to mean standing crop, was 1.2. Unusual silt and turbidity conditions, occurring in 1971, reduced the 1971 year class drastically, but had less serious effects on total production by all age groups. Food of the sculpins was similar in most respects to that of the brook trout inhabiting the same stream. Young sculpins fed heavily on small dipterans, mainly chironomids; older sculpins fed mainly on Gammarus and Trichoptera larvae. Comparisons with annual production estimates for brook (Salvelinus fontinalis) and rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri), made previously in Valley Creek for comparable time periods, ...
Another angry adolescent: another boxer's fracture?

Hand injuries are a common chief complaint in the pediatric population presenting for emergency care. Adolescents, in particular, often present with trauma to their hands after punching objects. The most frequent result of this action is a fracture to one or more of their metacarpals, also known as a boxer's fracture. However, we present a case with this common mechanism that resulted in an uncommon injury, carpometacarpal joint dislocations. Language: en
Electron transfer rates from time-dependent correlation functions. Wavepacket dynamics, solvent effects, and applications

Abstract The golden-rule expression for the non-adiabatic electron-transfer rate constant in donor/acceptor system is analyzed using a Fourier (time-dependent) representation. The rate constant is written in terms on an evolving overlap of wavepackets on initial and final state potential-energy surfaces. By the following the explicit time-dependence of these functions, we can obtained both standard results of electron-transfer theory for the specific case of a standard polaron-type model (including inverted-region behavior, temperature dependence, nuclear tunneling effects, energy sharing) and some important generalizations, including situations of breakdown of the Condon approximation, analysis of the effects of the frequency changes, and simplifications of the relevant vibrational modes due to solvent, to intra-molecular vibrations, or to both. The correlation-function method is briefly described, and results of a number of calculations are discussed. Analysis includes the effect of inhomogeneous broadening and energy flow into solvent and vibrational degrees of freedom. Analysis of two particular cases, subjects of recent elegant experimental investigation, are included to show the applicability of the technique.
The thermodynamics and solubility of hydrogen in FeAl

Abstract The solubility of hydrogen in FeAl in equilibrium with gas as a constant pressure was measured in the temperature range 513–1301 K. The solubility data have been analyzed in terms of a statistical model in which the interstitial atoms are distributed through the three distinct sites in the B2 lattice.
THERMOLUMINESCENCE DATING: RADIOACTIVITY IN QUARTZ

Alpha activities measured for four quartz extracts indicate that, in some samples, the alpha dose-rate to the quartz due to radioactivity within the quartz can be significant. Uranium mapping of the quartz by neutroninduced fission tracks shows that the radioactivity is not homogeneously distributed.
Electron irradiation of poly (tetrafluoroethylene) : effect on adhesion and comparison with X-rays

Electron irradiation of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) at energies from 0.5 to 3.0 keV is shown to protect against chemical etching used to prepare the surface for bonding. This etching protection is interpreted in terms of known radiation-induced cross-linking and/or branching. For a 2-keV electron dose of ≃5 μA•s/cm 2 , the adhesion strength to epoxy, after etching, is reduced to less than 3% of the nonirradiated value. A 5-μA•s/cm 2 dose is shown to be roughly equivalent to 1.6×10 −4 electron/CF 2 . The adhesion results are comparable to those obtained with Mg Kα X-ray treatment, provided that only the fraction of photons absorbed in the same depth as electrons in considered
Urban transformation of river landscapes in a global context

Abstract Over the past 50 years considerable progress has been made in understanding the impacts of urban development on river processes and forms. Such advances have occurred as urban population growth has accelerated around the world. Using a compilation of research results from more than 100 studies conducted in a range of areas (58 addressing morphological change), this paper describes how urbanization has transformed river landscapes across Earth’s surface, emphasizing the distribution of impacts in a global comparative context. Urban development induces an initial phase of sediment mobilization, characterized by increased sediment production (on the order of 2–10 times) and deposition within channels, followed by eventual decline that couples with erosion from increased runoff to enlarge channels. Data from humid and temperate environments around the world indicate that channels generally enlarge to 2–3 times and as much as 15 times the original size. Although research has emphasized temperate environments, recent studies of tropical areas indicate a tendency for channel reduction resulting from strong sediment erosion and deposition responses because of intense precipitation and highly weathered soils. Embryonic research in arid environments further suggests variable river responses to urbanization that are characterized by rapid morphological change over short distances. Regardless of location, the persistence of the sediment production phase varies from months to several years, whereas several decades are likely needed for enlarging channels to stabilize and potentially reach a new equilibrium. Urbanizing streams pose particular challenges for management given an inherent changing nature. Successful management requires a clear understanding of the temporal and spatial variations in adjustment processes.
A two-DOF manipulator with adjustable compliance capabilities and comparison with the human finger

This article addresses compliance control issues and develops an actuator that modulates the stiffness and independently sets the angular positioning of a revolute joint. The capability to decouple the position from the compliance modulations is instrumental in a wide range of robotic contact operations. It is shown that a five input control scheme fully characterizes the position and compliance of a two-DOF manipulator. In an effort to characterize the control capabilities of a human finger, the compliance values of the proximal and middle joints are assessed experimentally. The results of the experiment show that a five input control is evidently within the human finger capabilities. In an effort to enhance the compliance capabilities of robotic systems, the authors believe that the newly developed actuation scheme will impact the automation of manufacturing tasks in which contact operations are inevitable. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Chemical reaction rates and solvent friction

The role of the dynamic solvent friction in influencing the rates of chemical reactions in solution is described. Features considered include (a) the bias of the reaction coordinate toward a direction of lesser friction in the diffusive limit, (b) the importance of frequency-dependent friction in atom transfers, tunneling reactions and isomerizations, (c) the dynamic nonequilibrium solvation in charge transfers which leads to a polar solvent molecule reorientation time dependence for the rate, and (d)the importance of internal degrees of freedom in the location of the Kramers turnover for isomerizations.
Psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents six-to-twelve months after mild traumatic brain injury.

Short-term psychiatric morbidity associated with mild traumatic brain injury in children occurs more commonly than previously reported and is related to both pre-injury social factors and concurrent neurocognitive functioning.
Characterizing bio-optical and ecological features of algal bloom waters for detection and tracking from space

The detection and monitoring of harmful algal blooms using in-situ field measurements is both labor intensive and is practically limited on achievable temporal and spatial resolutions, since field measurements are typically carried out at a series of discrete points and at discrete times, with practical limitations on temporal continuity. The planning and preparation of remedial measures to reduce health risks, etc., requires detection approaches which can effectively cover larger areas with contiguous spatial resolutions, and at the same time offer a more comprehensive and contemporaneous snapshot of entire blooms as they occur. This is beyond capabilities of in-situ measurements and it is in this context that satellite Ocean Color sensors offer potential advantages for bloom detection and monitoring. In this paper we examine the applications and limitations of an approach we have recently developed for the detection of K. brevis blooms from satellite Ocean Color Sensors measurements, the Red Band Difference Technique, and compare it to other detection algorithm approaches, including a new statistical based approach also proposed here. To achieve more uniform standards of comparisons, the performance of different techniques for detection are applied to the same specific verified blooms occurring off the West Florida Shelf (WFS) that have been verified by in-situ measurements.
Automated long-term tracking of freely moving animal and functional brain imaging based on fiber optic microscopy

In this study, we demonstrate an automated data acquisition/analysis platform for both long-term motion tracking and functional brain imaging in freely moving mice. Our system utilizes a fiber-bundle based fluorescence microscope for 24 hours imaging of cellular activities within the brain while also monitoring corresponding animal behaviors using a NIR camera. Synchronized software and automation of analysis allow quantification of all animal behaviors and their brain activities over extended periods of time. Our platform can be used for interrogation of the brain activities in different behavioral states and is also well-suited for longitudinal studies of cellular activities in freely moving animals.
Resistance to barley yellow‐dwarf‐virus disease in derivatives of crosses between hexaploid wheat and species of Lophopyrum (Triticeae; Poaceae)

Among the wheatgrasses that are possible sources of genetic resistance for wheat to barley yellow-dwarf-virus disease (BYD) are those that have been commonly subsumed under the name Agropyron elongatum (Host) P. Beauv. Two of these wheatgrass species are the diploid Lophopyrum elongatum (Host) A. Love (2n = 2x = 14) and the decaploid L. ponticum (Podp.) A. Love (2n = 10x = 70). These two species, the addition and substitution lines of L. elongatum chromosomes in hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and derivatives of hybrids between hexaploid wheat and L. ponticum, were screened for resistance to BYD, as defined by visual symptoms in field-grown plants. The two species, an amphiploid derived from L. elongatum × 'Chinese Spring' wheat, and the derivatives involving L. ponticum chromosomes were all highly resistant. The substitution and addition lines of L. elongatum chromosomes in 'Chinese Spring' revealed that the genetic control of resistance in L. elongatum must be complex, with more than one critical locus involved. Chromosomes 2E and 5E are involved and there are lesser contributions to resistance from the remaining wheatgrass chromosomes. One highly resistant derivative was determined to have only three pairs of L. ponticum chromosomes. It has a wheat-like morphology and shows promise for further characterization.
Least Squares Shadowing sensitivity analysis of chaotic limit cycle oscillations

Abstract The adjoint method, among other sensitivity analysis methods, can fail in chaotic dynamical systems. The result from these methods can be too large, often by orders of magnitude, when the result is the derivative of a long time averaged quantity. This failure is known to be caused by ill-conditioned initial value problems. This paper overcomes this failure by replacing the initial value problem with the well-conditioned “least squares shadowing (LSS) problem”. The LSS problem is then linearized in our sensitivity analysis algorithm, which computes a derivative that converges to the derivative of the infinitely long time average. We demonstrate our algorithm in several dynamical systems exhibiting both periodic and chaotic oscillations.
Intercepting Binge Drinkers in Medical Settings: A View from California

The argument for universal alcohol screening in primary care is based on the assumption that most heavy drinkers routinely visit a doctor. This study examines whether drinking status is associated with higher or lower odds of visiting a doctor in the past year among California adults. As a point of comparison, the study also examines whether drinking status is associated with the odds of visiting an emergency room. Data came from the 2007 California Health Interview Survey. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the odds of visiting a doctor and an emergency room for abstainers, moderate drinkers, monthly binge drinkers, and weekly binge drinkers. After controlling for demographics, health coverage, and health status, binge drinkers had the same odds of visiting a doctor and the emergency room as moderate drinkers. Among binge drinkers, female gender, health coverage, and high blood pressure were associated with visiting a primary care doctor.
Anomalous Electron Scattering in Dilute Magnetic Alloys

Recently Kondo explained the resistance minimum in dilute alloys by the s-d scattering model. He showed that the second-order Born approximation to the scattering cross section contains a log T term which gives a good fit to the observed resistance at low temperatures. This term arises as a consequence of the dynamical properties of the spin operators and the sharp variation in electron population at the Fermi level. In this paper the Kondo theory is extended to show that the resistance anomaly is independent of other scatterings in the system and that the magneto-resistance contains a term like log H in strong enough fields. The effect of higher-order scattering on superconductivity is also studied. It is found that the inclusion of the Kondo term does not modify the qualitative conclusions of the existing theory.
Growth and maintenance respiration in stems of Quercus alba after four years of CO2 enrichment

Atmospheric CO2 enrichment is increasingly being reported to inhibit leaf and whole-plant respiration. It is not known, however, whether this response is unique to foliage or whether woody-tissue respiration might be affected as well. This was examined for mid-canopy stem segments of white oak (Quercus alba L.) trees that had been grown in open-top field chambers and exposed to either ambient or ambient + 300 µmol mol−1 CO2 over a 4-year period. Stem respiration measurements were made throughout 1992 by using an infrared gas analyzer and a specially designed in situ cuvette. Rates of woody-tissue respiration were similar between CO2 treatments prior to leaf initiation and after leaf senescence, but were several fold greater for saplings grown at elevated concentrations of CO2 during much of the growing season. These effects were most evident on 7 July when stem respiration rates for trees exposed to elevated CO2 concentrations were 7.25 compared to 3.44 µmol CO2 m−2 s−1 for ambient-grown saplings. While other explanations must be explored, greater rates of stem respiration for saplings grown at elevated CO2 concentrations were consistent with greater rates of stem growth and more stem-wood volume present at the time of measurement. When rates of stem growth were at their maximum (7 July to 3 August), growth respiration accounted for about 80 to 85% of the total respiratory costs of stems at both CO2 treatments, while 15 to 20% supported the costs of stem-wood maintenance. Integrating growth and maintenance respiration throughout the season, taking into account treatment differences in stem growth and volume, indicated that there were no significant effects of elevated CO2 concentration on either respiratory process. Quantitative estimates that could be used in modeling the costs of woody-tissue growth and maintenance respiration are provided.
A robust ratio metric method for analysis of Zap-70 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Since Zap-70 expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells correlates with a lack of somatic mutation of the immunoglobulin variable heavy chain (IgVH) genes, it has been proposed as a surrogate marker for disease prognosis. However, published studies of Zap-70 expression have used different commercial antibodies and analytic strategies. This study was undertaken to determine if any strategy was broadly applicable in a clinical flow cytometry laboratory. Expression of Zap-70 was determined in 37 CLL patients using four different commercial antibodies. T, NK, and CLL cells were identified by immunophenotyping along with Zap-70 expression. Data was analyzed in terms of both percent of CLL cells expressing Zap-70 and the ratio of Zap-70 expression in CLL cells compared to that in T + NK cells. Three Zap-70 antibodies showed wide ranges of Zap-70 expression as a percentage of tumor cells, while a fourth gave consistently elevated results. Comparing the percent Zap-70 expression with any two antibodies gave poor correlations (r2 = 0.45–0.63). Our results indicated that the previous analytical strategies were not reproducible. A ratio metric is proposed, which gave better correlations (r2 as high as 0.95) and would allow separation of CLL patients with elevated or decreased Zap-70 expression. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Knockdown of TFIIS by RNA silencing inhibits cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis

Background A common element among cancer cells is the presence of improperly controlled transcription. In these cells, the degree of specific activation of some genes is abnormal, and altering the aberrant transcription may therefore directly target cancer. TFIIS is a transcription elongation factor, which directly binds the transcription motor, RNA Polymerase II and allows it to read through various transcription arrest sites. We report on RNA interference of TFIIS, a transcription elongation factor, and its affect on proliferation of cancer cells in culture.
Effects of Sunlight or Shade on Maturity and Optical Density in Blueberries

SUMMARY Sensing of maturity in blueberries (Vaccinium darrowi L.) using optical density measurements has long been known and used by researchers. This past year a large sample of berries (540) were visually selected with six levels of maturity; Green, White, Red, Just-Ripe, Ripe, and Over-Ripe. Subsequently, spectrographs of individual berries were obtained from about 400 nm to 900 nm. Each berry was chemically assayed for soluble solids (SS), pH, and titratable acidity (Acids). One interesting observation was that the SS/Acids ratios within each of the six carefully selected levels of maturity varied greatly and overlapped between the maturity categories. This study was initiated by one primary question. Is there an effect on the SS/Acids ratio of an individual berry if the berry is allowed to mature in either the presence or absence of sunlight? A secondary issue of investigation was: If there is a sun/shade effect on a berry's SS/Acids ratio, can this effect be observed by measuring the optical density...
S-Arachidonoyl-2-thioglycerol synthesis and use for fluorimetric and colorimetric assays of monoacylglycerol lipase.

Abstract We report the first synthesis of 2-thioglycerol and S-arachidonoyl-2-thioglycerol (the thioester analog of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol) in an eight or nine step procedure with a yield of ∼25% and establish the use of this substrate for maleimide-based fluorescent and dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid)-based colorimetric assays of human recombinant monoacylglycerol (MAG) lipase (hMAGL) and human brain membrane MAG hydrolase activity. Inhibitor structure–activity relationships observed here for hMAGL and 2-ATG correlate well (r2 = 0.93, n = 9) with earlier findings for mouse brain MAG hydrolase with non-thiol substrates.
Fetal Tissue Derived From Spontaneous Pregnancy Losses Is Insufficient for Human Transplantation

Objective To determine if sufficient fetal tissue with desirable transplant characteristics can be obtained from spontaneous abortions. Methods A survey of fetal tissues collected from newly diagnosed spontaneous pregnancy losses from three Indianapolis hospitals was conducted from December 1992 to September 1993. Forty-nine of 356 mothers (13.8%) with spontaneous abortions or ectopic pregnancies consented to the evaluation of their products of conception by gross and microscopic pathologic examination, bacterial culture, cytogenetic analysis, cell culture, and maternal serologic tests. Results Forty-nine pregnancies (gestational age range 5–30 weeks) provided four identifiable embryos, 12 secondtrimester fetuses, and one third-trimester fetus. Nine samples (18.4%) were of excellent or good quality on pathologic grading. Twenty-five of 38 samples tested (66%) grew pathogenic bacteria. Maternal serologic tests were negative for antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus, human T-cell lymphotropic virus, syphilis, and hepatitis B in all cases. One of 43 sera was reactive for hepatitis C, and 33 (77%) were positive for cytomegalovirus. Cytogenetic abnormalities were found in 25% of cultured samples. Five fetal brain samples had cell viabilities of 50% or more. Few viable fetal hepatocytes were found. Only two fetal brain samples (4.1%) were potential candidates for human transplantation. Conclusion Spontaneous pregnancy losses yield minimal usable tissue for human transplantation because of a lack of embryonic or fetal tissues, delayed collection, decomposition, genetic abnormality, and bacterial contamination. (Ob-stet Gynecol 1995;85:619-24)
Equity Measures for Irrigation Performance Evaluation

ABSTRACT This paper deals with the analytical issues involved in developing and using practical measures of equity for irrigation project performance evaluation. Deriving from the economic literature on equity in income distribution, the paper discusses the usefulness of seven different axioms for equity measures in evaluating the robustness of seven different positive measures of equity such as the range, the relative mean deviation, the variance, the coefficient of variation, the standard deviation of logarithms, the Gini coefficient and Theil's information measure. Based on the fulfillment/non-fulfillment of different axioms, the paper discusses the relative merits/demerits of the above-mentioned seven different measures and concludes on the basis of this critical evaluation that Theil's information measure is more useful than the rest since it fulfills many of the important axioms in addition to its being amenable for decomposition analysis.
Invasive Aspergillosis in Liver Transplant Recipients: Association with Candidemia and Consumption Coagulopathy and Failure of Prophylaxis with Low-Dose Amphotericin B

Invasive aspergillosis developed in three (5%) of 55 adult liver transplant recipients at our institution. All three of our patients had concomitant candidemia and consumption coagulopathy, and invasive aspergillosis developed while they were receiving therapy with intravenous amphotericin B (0.5 mg/[kg.d]). The simultaneous occurrence of candidemia and invasive aspergillosis in liver transplant recipients may reflect a common defect in the host-defense mechanism against Candida and Aspergillus organisms (i.e., impaired phagocytic and mononuclear macrophage function) and liver disease per se. These three cases suggest that such low-dose intravenous amphotericin B will likely be ineffective if used as antifungal prophylaxis for invasive aspergillosis.
Morphology and Ultrastructure of Prismatic Calcified Cartilage

The skeleton of sharks, rays and their relatives is composed of a hyaline-like cartilage covered with a thin, highly mineralized calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite) layer of tiles called tesserae (Fig. 1). Tesserae are believed to form from the fusion of vesicles with high mineral content, secreted by chondrocytes at the mineralizing face [2, 3]. The resultant globular calcospherites merge to form a layer that gradually transforms by further mineralization into prismatic cartilage. This succession occurs as a calcification gradient from the underlying hyaline cartilage to the tesserae. However, the fine-scale morphological and chemical transformations involved in this process have not been studied at the high-resolution electron microscopy level due to the difficulty of sample preparation. This research examines the interface between calcified and uncalcified cartilage in order to develop adequate methodology and elucidate the processes involved in cartilage calcification.
Changing site distribution patterns of colorectal cancer at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Analyzed data from an earlier reported experience with colorectal cancer at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, compared with findings observed and analyzed from 1959 to 1977 indicate a changing pattern of distribution of colorectal cancers. These changes lead to therapeutic conclusion that fiberoptic flexible sigmoidoscopy is the preferred diagnostic tool.
Putting the "community" back into "mental health": the challenge of a great crisis in the health and well-being of children and families.

For more than a generation, the levels of anxiety, depression, and misconduct among young people in the United States have been steadily increasing. So too have isolation, alienation, mistrust, and boredom, with the result that ongoing social support has been diminishing, particularly for young people. These trends constitute a national public health crisis affecting young people in general, those already defined as having mental health problems, and their families. To respond adequately, the child mental health system must change dramatically—away from the provision of units of service defined by protocols, time, and professionals’ presence and toward the engagement of primary community institutions in the creation and maintenance of new norms of giving and receiving help. Initial evidence suggests that such a shift requires massive effort but that it is feasible and potentially effective.
Interpolation error-based a posteriori error estimation for two-point boundary value problems and parabolic equations in one space dimension

I derive a posteriori error estimates for two-point boundary value problems and parabolic equations in one dimension based on interpolation error estimates. The interpolation error estimates are obtained from an extension of the error formula for the Lagrange interpolating polynomial in the case of symmetrically-spaced interpolation points. From this formula pointwise and $H^1$ seminorm a priori estimates of the interpolation error are derived. The interpolant in conjunction with the a priori estimates is used to obtain asymptotically exact a posteriori error estimates of the interpolation error. These a posteriori error estimates are extended to linear two-point boundary problems and parabolic equations. Computational results demonstrate the convergence of a posteriori error estimates and their effectiveness when combined with an hp-adaptive code for solving parabolic systems.
XAFS spectroscopic characterization of elements in combustion ash and fine particulate matter

X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy is a powerful non-destructive, direct technique for determining the speciation of environmentally important elements in products derived from combustion of fossil fuels. Such information is potentially important (i) for assessing the threat to human health posed by specific forms and oxidation states of such elements in combustion products (ash) or in combustion-derived airborne particulate matter (PM), and (ii) for possible source identification and apportionment in PM investigations. The specific examples discussed include the speciation of various elements classified as hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) in ash products from combustion of coal (As and Cr), residual oil (Ni and Cr), and biomass (Cd and Zn) and in airborne PM collected on a PM10 filter (S, Cl, Cr and As). Chromium and arsenic, which could exist in these materials in different oxidation states, were typically found predominantly in less toxic oxidation states, Cr(III) and As(V). All metal species (Cr, Ni, Cd, Zn, As) were shown to be present in the combustion ashes in predominantly oxidic environments (i.e., oxides, sulfates, arsenates, etc.). Most of the sulfur in the PM10 filter sample was present as sulfate, but minor organosulfur forms (thiophene) were also identified. For comparison with the data obtained for elements on the PM10 filter, XAFS data are also presented for the corresponding elements in two National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) particulate matter Standard Reference Materials (SRMs): Urban PM (SRM 1648), and Diesel PM (SRM 1650).
f-Electron materials: a reservoir of novel electronic states and phenomena

Abstract f-Electron materials exhibit a rich variety of strongly correlated electron states and phenomena. Two examples, non-Fermi liquid (NFL) behavior at low temperatures and superconductivity in the vicinity of quantum critical points, are discussed in this article. Non-Fermi liquids are characterized by weak power law or logarithmic temperature dependences of the electrical resistivity, specific heat, and magnetic susceptibility at low temperatures, as well as a dynamical susceptibility whose imaginary part scales with frequency ω divided by T. These NFL characteristics were first established in chemically substituted f-electron materials and later observed in stoichiometric f-electron compounds, suggesting that the NFL behavior is a general phenomenon whose underlying mechanism(s) is (are) not primarily associated with atomic disorder. In certain antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic f-electron intermetallic compounds, superconductivity has been observed in the vicinity of the critical pressure Pc where the Neel or Curie temperature vanishes. We discuss recent experiments on the ferromagnetic compound UGe2 and suggest that superconductivity, which is found to occur within the ferromagnetic phase below Pc in this compound, may have s-wave character and coexist in a spatially inhomogeneous manner with the ferromagnetism.
Use of touch preps for intraoperative diagnosis of sentinel lymph node metastases in breast cancer.

Background: Intraoperative touch prep (TP) is highly accurate for determining positive breast cancer margins and thereby reducing the need for second surgeries. It also may be useful in determining the status of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) during the initial surgical resection. The objective of this study was to test the ability of intraoperative TP to predict metastatic disease and, thus, the necessity for axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) at the time of SLN biopsy.
The DHX33 RNA Helicase Senses Cytosolic RNA and Activates the NLRP3 Inflammasome

The NLRP3 inflammasome plays a major role in innate immune responses by activating caspase-1, resulting in secretion of interleukin-18 (IL-18) and IL-1β. Although cytosolic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and bacterial RNA are known to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, the upstream sensor is unknown. We investigated the potential function of DExD/H-box RNA helicase family members (previously shown to sense cytosolic DNA and RNA to induce type 1 interferon responses) in RNA-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Among the helicase family members tested, we found that targeting of DHX33 expression by short hairpin RNA efficiently blocked the activation of caspase-1 and secretion of IL-18 and IL-1β in human macrophages that were activated by cytosolic poly I:C, reoviral RNA, or bacterial RNA. DHX33 bound dsRNA via the helicase C domain. DHX33 interacted with NLRP3 and formed the inflammasome complex following stimulation with RNA. We therefore identified DHX33 as a cytosolic RNA sensor that activates the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Paradigm Consistency and the Depiction of Stiltedness: The Case of than I versus than me

Close adherence to prescriptive rules of grammar can sometimes produce stilted language, which can impart to language a pompous or stuffy impression. It is ironic that an island of potential unacceptability can arise within what is regarded as Standard English. In instances where prescriptive grammaticality and sociolinguistic appropriateness are in opposition, disagreements over language use can occur. Despite its impact, stiltedness has received little scholarly attention, probably because it is an intangible, subjective phenomenon. This paper investigates an indirect way to depict stiltedness through a quantitative measure. The example selected to demonstrate this approach is the rule of bare pronouns in comparative sentences. With tangible quantitative measurements of paradigm consistency and inconsistency, stiltedness may perhaps be understood more effectively.
Flyspec: A simple method of unfolding neutron energy spectra measured with NE213 and stilbene spectrometers

Abstract We have developed a simple method for unfolding recoil proton pulse height spectra obtained with NE213 and stilbene detectors to obtain neutron energy spectra. The derivative method used is not new, but its present implementation allows fast data reduction in primitive computers such as the LSI-11. It has been used in a portable field instrument which displays environmental neutron energy spectra, and it allows an array of primitive parallel processors to reduce data from many spectrometers simultaneously as is required in plasma diagnostics. The present implementation is in FORTRAN, but a PASCAL version is nearly completed. We compared our results to those obtained with more sophisticated data-reduction codes and found that our method provides nominally the same unfolded results on a variety of input spectra.
Factor Growth, Urban Unemployment and Welfare Under Variable Returns to Scale

This paper analyzes the welfare implications of factor growth (i.e., labor growth and capital accumulation), in the mobile-capital Harris-Todaro (H-T) model by allowing the presence of variable returns to scale (VRS). It is shown that in contrast to the constant returns to scale (CRS) case, factor growth under VRS may lower the welfare of a small country and can affect the urban unemployed-employed ratio and the factor prices. Further, under VRS, the Rybczynski-type of factor endowment-output response requires much more stringent conditions (vis-a vis the CRS case). [F12, O41]
Implementation of glycemic control – problems and solutions

Glycaemic control is another example of protocol-driven therapy in intensive care medicine to improve outcome in critically ill patients. While the advantage of this approach seems to be obvious, little is known about the problems of implementing such a protocol. The intention of this study was to evaluate problems of implementation and to develop strategies to overcome them.
An In Vitro Method for Identifying Postattachment Striga Resistance in Maize and Sorghum

Breeding for durable Striga resistance requires identifi cation and stacking of multiple genetic barriers to parasitism in crops. Th is task would be greatly aided by having screening tools for identifying in parent sources and breeding populations resistance traits that function at various stages in the parasitic association. In this study, we describe a root observation system called the sand packed titer plate assay (SPTPA) used to study early postattachment development of Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth. on two maize (Zea mays L.) and two sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] inbred lines selected for fi eld resistance and susceptibility to Striga. Th e resistant maize and sorghum lines had fewer Striga attachments and these showed delayed parasitic development, and higher mortality compared to those on susceptible cultivars. Th e SPTPA was useful in identifying specifi c resistance reactions to S. hermonthica in maize and sorghum and refl ected results from fi eld studies of these varieties. Th is assay would complement fi eld testing during development of Striga-resistant varieties.