cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Women and Indigenous Religions

Women and Indigenous Religions, edited by Sylvia Marcos, Praeger: Santa Barbara, California, 2010, x + 256 pp. ISBN 978 0 27599 157 9, US$44.95 (hardback) The academic field of women and religion b...
Robotic and laparoscopic high extended pelvic lymph node dissection during radical cystectomy: technique and outcomes.

Abstract Background With the increasing use of laparoscopic and robotic radical cystectomy (RC), there are perceived concerns about the adequacy of lymph node dissection (LND). Objective Describe the robotic and laparoscopic technique and the short-term outcomes of high extended pelvic LND (PLND) up to the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) during RC. Design, setting, and participants From January 2007 through September 2009, we performed high extended PLND with proximal extent up to the IMA ( n =10) or aortic bifurcation ( n =5) in 15 patients undergoing robotic RC ( n =4) or laparoscopic RC ( n =11) at two institutions. Surgical procedure We performed robotic extended PLND with the proximal extent up to the IMA or aortic bifurcation. The LND was performed starting from the right external iliac, obturator, internal iliac, common iliac, preaortic and para-aortic, precaval, and presacral and then proceeding to the left side. The accompanying video highlights our detailed technique. Measurements Median age was 69 yr, body mass index was 26, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class ≥3 was present in 40% of patients. All urinary diversions, including orthotopic neobladder ( n =5) and ileal conduit ( n =10), were performed extracorporeally. Results and limitations All 15 procedures were technically successful without need for conversion to open surgery. Median operative time was 6.7h, estimated blood loss was 500ml, and three patients (21%) required blood transfusion. Median nodal yield in the entire cohort was 31 (range: 15–78). The IMA group had more nodes retrieved (median: 42.5) compared with the aortic bifurcation group (median: 20.5). Histopathology confirmed nodal metastases in four patients (27%), including three patients in the IMA group and one patient in the aortic bifurcation group. Perioperative complications were recorded in six cases (40%). During a median follow-up of 13 mo, no patient developed local or systemic recurrence. Limitations of the study include its retrospective design and small cohort of patients. Conclusions High extended PLND during laparoscopic or robotic RC is technically feasible. Longer survival data in a larger cohort of patients are necessary to determine the proper place for robotic and laparoscopic surgery in patients undergoing RC for high-risk bladder cancer.
Cytology and autoradiography of estrogen-induced differentiation of avian endosteal cells

The endosteal reaction, the initial step in the formation of medullary bone, was investigated in femurs of estrogen-treated male Japanese quail. Morphologically, the endosteal cells were in an undifferentiated state until 30 h after estrogen treatment and showed characteristics resembling those of resting cells. Many preosteoblasts were seen on the endosteum at 33 h, whereas mitotic figures and fully differentiated osteoblasts were recognized at 36 h after estrogen. The mitotic figures were observed among the preosteoblasts on the endosteum. Autoradiographs showed that the number of endosteal cells labeled by [3H]thymidine injected 1 h before sacrifice was maximal 27 h after the estrogen administration and decreased markedly by 30 h. When a single injection of [3H]thymidine was given at 26 h after estrogen, the highest percent of labeled endosteal cells was observed 1 h later (27 h after estrogen). Labeled preosteoblasts and osteoblasts were observed at 7 h (33 h after estrogen) and 10 h (36 h after estrogen), respectively. Our results show that under the influence of estrogen, endosteal cells are induced to maximally synthesize DNA about 27 h after estrogen. These cells appear to modulate into preosteoblasts in about 6 h and then divide via mitosis to become osteoblasts within an additional 3 h. The development of medullary bone induced by estrogen occurs in a sequential and predictable manner, which makes it a useful system for studying basic problems on bone cell differentiation.
Callosal disconnection and limb-kinetic apraxia

According to Liepmann, patients with limb-kinetic apraxia (LKA) have a loss of upper limb deftness-dexterity. Prior studies have revealed in right-handed patients that, whereas injury of the left hemisphere induces an ipsilesional LKA, injury to the right hemisphere does not induce an ipsilesional LKA. There are at least two possible means by which the left hemisphere may influence the deftness of the left hand, either by callosal connections or by ipsilesional corticospinal projections. The purpose of this study was to learn whether a patient with a focal lesion of the corpus callosum had a callosal disconnection LKA. This 57-year-old right-handed man had a memory impairment, and upon brain imaging, was found to have a septum pellucidum cyst, which was causing mild ventricular obstruction to the occipital and temporal horns. He underwent an endoscopic-assisted fenestration of the septum pellucidum. Postoperative imaging revealed a lesion of the mesial portion of his corpus callosum and an assessment of praxis revealed that he had both a limb-kinetic and ideomotor apraxia of his left but not his right hand. The observation that this man had a callosal disconnection LKA of his left hand suggests that in some people it is the left hemisphere's premotor or motor cortex that enables the right hemisphere's motor system to program deft movements of the left hand.
Characterization of Electrical Failure Modes in Chip-on-Board Assemblies for Extreme Temperature Environments

Future space missions to Mars and the outer planets will have to operate on the planet surface in temperatures that range from −200°C to 40°C. These missions will require sensors, instruments and motors to operate for extended periods that exceed the duration of any planetary surface mission to date. Currently the Mars Science Laboratory rovers planned for 2009 will be required to survive a mission life of about 500 Martian sols. The Martian solar day is called a sol and is equal to 24 hours and 39 minutes of an Earth day. This extended mission requirement is beyond the reliability threshold of present electronic materials and interfaces such as those used on the Mars Exploration Rovers. The combination of correct materials, electrical interconnection and packaging design are critical to ensuring long life when the range between minimum and maximum temperatures approach or exceed 200°C. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory as part of the Mars Technology program is performing a series of designed experiments to determine the best electronic packaging materials that would survive 500 Martian sols in the temperature range of −120°C to 85°C. This technology development is part of the preparation effort to design and build survivable electronics for the Mars Science Laboratory rovers and related future outer planet missions. This technology development program is called Temperature Cycle Resistant Electronics (TCRE) and is a 3 year design for electrical interface reliability activity. The experiment team assembled 27 different types of test vehicles which are the result of a full factorial designed experiment. There were 10 samples of each type assembled for statistical confidence to yield a total of 270 test vehicles. The basic test vehicle design consists of silicon die mounted to a substrate with gold wire bond electrical interconnects. Continuous electrical paths were designed into the substrate and the dice. The basic experiment consists of assembling three different types of substrates, three different types of die attach materials and three different types of over coat material. The test vehicles were subjected to 1500 thermal cycles (three times required mission life) from −120°C to 85°C over nine months. Open electrical circuits were observed over time due to material interactions over this temperature range that created electrical failures. This paper summarizes the failure results and identifies the material sets that survived this phase of the experiment for 1500 extreme temperature cycles.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Aesthetics as Weapons in the “War of Ideas:” Exploring the Digital and Typographic in American Conservative Web Sites

Through a rhetorical analysis of three conservative Web sites, this essay explores how media aesthetics relate to political struggle, particularly within today's information economy. A Burkean reading reveals how selected sites exploit the digital aesthetic to promote identification; and, following the historical analogue of yellow journalism, position their users as activists against a “dominant liberal media.” Yet, by presenting themselves as “yellow” activists, conservatives risk alienating traditionalist patrons who value truth and authority. The essay considers how David Horowitz's FrontPageMag.com promotes identification by blending yellow spectacle with typographic austerity, uniting the conservative movement on-line. By conducting close readings of Web site aesthetics, the essay concludes communication scholars may further develop the meaning of “interactivity,” particularly as it assists political movements.
Effects of a pressure target on laryngeal airway resistance in children

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an intraoral air pressure target on estimation of laryngeal airway resistance (LAR) in normal children. Ten children produced the syllable /pi/ (a) with self-determined normal loudness, (b) with increased loudness, and (c) at a predetermined intraoral air pressure level of 6.5 to 7.5 cm of water. The target pressure level was selected because it was expected to result in estimated subglottal pressures that were lower than those associated with self-determined loudness levels. Results indicated significant differences in estimated subglottal pressure among the three conditions. As expected, estimated subglottal pressures were highest during loud speech and lowest during the pressure target task. LAR values associated with normal loudness were similar to values previously reported for children. The use of the pressure target resulted in LAR values that were reduced by 31% from normal loudness. These resistance values, however, were still greater than those reported for adult speakers at similar subglottal pressure levels. The results are explained relative to preferred loudness levels and vocal tract size differences in children and adults. It is suggested that use of a pressure target during estimation of LAR in children may provide additional data that more accurately reflect the aerodynamic integrity of the larynx. Implications for clinical assessment are discussed.
Iron Deficiency Decreases dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in rat brain

Iron deficiency (ID) in early life is known to alter neurological development and functioning, but data regarding specific effects on dopamine biology are lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the extent of functional alterations in dopamine receptors in two dopaminergic tracts in young, growing, iron-deficient rats. Forty male and 40 female weanling Sprague–Dawley rats were fed either an iron-deficient (ID) diet or control (CN) diet for 6 weeks. ID decreased densities of D1 and D2 receptors in the caudate–putamen and decreased D2 receptor densities in the nucleus accumbens. There were no apparent effects of ID on the affinities for the ligands in either receptor in several brain regions. In situ hybridization studies for both dopamine receptors revealed no significant effect of ID on mRNA expression for either receptor. Iron-deficient rats had a significantly higher ED50 for raclopride-induced hypolocomotion in male and female rats compared to control rats of each sex. The loss of iron in the striatum due to dietary ID was significantly correlated with the decrease in D2 receptor density; however, this relationship was not apparent in other brain regions. These experiments thus demonstrate abnormal dopamine receptor density and functioning in several brain regions that are related to brain regional iron loss. Importantly, the impact of ID on dopamine was more pronounced in males than females, demonstrating sex-related different sensitivities to nutrient deprivation.
Deadly ethnic conflict and the imperative of power sharing: Could a consociational federalism hold in Rwanda?

Principles of consociationalism and federalism have been successfully adopted by the strategic elites in a number of countries, including some in Africa, turning their once volatile politics into a more amicable order. It is proposed that the best hope for a less conflictual politics in Rwanda resides in an elite disposition towards political accommodation and the adoption of the non-majoritarian political arrangements associated with consociational federalism. This agenda is discussed in light of both the structural dimensions of consociationalism and federalism and, more briefly, of relevant African examples of their utilisation. Application of appropriately configured consociational and federal arrangements is presented as an imperative in such a deeply divided polity, where power commands monopolistic access to available resources and where those in power often employ violence and exclusion to safeguard their interests.
Metal-citrate complex uptake and CitMHS transporters: From coordination chemistry to possible vaccine development

Abstract This paper presents a brief review of metal-citrate coordination chemistry and its relevance to secondary metal-citrate transporters, a recently discovered family of proteins, designated as CitMHS. The potential role of CitMHS in gram positive immunology, for example in treatment of MRSA, is also discussed.
Systematic review: Is there excessive use of proton pump inhibitors in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease?

Summary Background : Proton-pump inhibitors are often recommended for continuous use in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, but this may not be necessary in all patients. Aim : To ascertain the level of evidence for alternative strategies for proton-pump inhibitor treatment in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Methods : We searched for observational or interventional studies examining alternatives to continuous proton-pump inhibitor treatment in gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Results : Non-randomized studies suggest that some patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, including some with erosive oesophagitis, may be adequately maintained on proton-pump inhibitor therapy given less frequently than once daily. However, the results may not be generalizable. Four high quality randomized-controlled trials compared ‘on-demand’ proton-pump inhibitor and placebo treatment in endoscopy-negative reflux disease; all found this effective for most patients. One high quality randomized-controlled trial found intermittent courses of a proton-pump inhibitor or H2-receptor antagonist in erosive oesophagitis or endoscopy-negative reflux disease adequate for almost half of the patients studied. Up to 80% of patients on continuous high-dose proton-pump inhibitor treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease can be ‘stepped down’ to less intensive therapy. Conclusions : On-demand proton-pump inhibitor treatment may be appropriate in endoscopy-negative reflux disease. In gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, patients taking more than once daily or high-dose proton-pump inhibitor treatment, a step down to once daily or standard dose therapy should be attempted.
Photorespiratory properties of protoplasts from C3-C4 intermediate species of moricandia

Abstract Protoplasts were isolated from leaves of the C3-C4 intermediate species, Moricandia arvensis (L.) DC. and Moricandia spinosa Pomel. Analysis by light and transmission electron microscopy indicated that these purified preparations contained both mesophyll protoplasts (MP) and bundle-sheath protoplasts (BSP). Conventional density gradient centrifugation procedures failed to yield separations of pure protoplasts from each cell-type. With these heterogeneous suspensions of MP and BSP, values measured for (i) the percentage inhibition of photosynthetic CO2 fixation by O2, (ii) the apparent Km(CO)2 of photosynthesis, and (iii) dark/light ratios of the rate of 14CO2 evolution during decarboxylation of exogenous [1-14C] glycine were not significantly different from those determined for protoplast preparations from related or representative C3 plants, including M. foetida, Nicotiana tabacum, and Triticum aestivum. In contrast, previous comparisons with C3 species, using intact leaf tissue from M. arvensis, have shown a reduced sensitivity of net photosynthesis to inhibition by O2 [Holaday et al., Plant Sci. Lett., 27 (1982) 181] and an enhanced capacity for the photosynthetic refixation of CO2 evolved during decarboxylation of exogenous photorespiratory substrates [Holbrook et al., Plant Physiol., 77 (1985) 578]. We conclude that these photosynthetic properties, associated with reduced photorespiration by M. arvensis and M. spinosa, are dependent upon the integrity of the anatomical and ultrastructural arrangement of bundle-sheath and mesophyll cells in these C3-C4 intermediate species.
Current status and future directions in induction chemotherapy for head and neck cancer.

Abstract As a component of multimodal therapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer, induction chemotherapy represents a strategy to reduce tumor burden and target distant metastases prior to definitive treatment. Although the addition of taxanes to the cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil induction regimen (TPF) has greatly benefitted outcomes in comparison with PF alone, recent phase III trials have not shown a survival advantage for TPF induction followed by chemoradiotherapy vs. chemoradiotherapy alone. While these trials may have been underpowered to demonstrate a survival benefit, additional phase III trials are ongoing, with highly anticipated results. “Next-generation” sequential regimens that include targeted agents such as cetuximab are emerging as an approach to increase activity while decreasing toxicity. In addition, patient selection based on individual disease characteristics may identify ideal candidates for induction therapy. These developments may result in personalized therapeutic regimens that improve clinical outcomes.
Teaching Photosynthesis with ELL Students

ABSTRACT Although the teaching of photosynthesis occurs yearly in elementary classrooms, one thing that makes it challenging is the inclusion of English language learners (ELLs). This article presents several activities for teaching and assessing of photosynthesis in a third grade classroom. The activities incorporate the photosynthesis content, teaching strategies, and assessment techniques appropriate for ELLs, as well as for English-speaking students.
Atomic-Level Visualization of Smooth Muscle Activation by Phosphorylation of the Myosin Regulatory Light Chain

We have engineered site-directed probe pairs in the regulatory light chain (RLC) for exchange into smooth muscle heavy meromyosin (HMM) and subfragment-1 (S1), in order to examine the phosphorylation-induced changes in RLC structural states using time-resolved FRET (TR-FRET). Phosphorylation of the RLC is required for activation of contraction in smooth muscle and modulates force in striated muscle. Force development in smooth muscle is triggered by phosphorylation of the RLC's N-terminal phosphorylation domain (PD) at Ser19, alleviating inhibitory interactions between the two heads. Since crystal structures of the RLC lack the PD, the mechanism by which RLC phosphorylation allosterically triggers disruption of HMM auto-inhibition remains unresolved. Our site-directed FRET probe pairs resolved intramolecular atomic distance measurements between the RLC core and the dynamic PD. Smooth muscle RLC assumes two structural states in both states of activation: phosphorylation shifts the equilibrium of these two structural states from primarily occupying the compact closed state to favoring the extended open state of the PD, relative to the RLC core. Compared to single-headed S1 (Kast et al., PNAS., 2010), the open state RLC conformation of unphosphorylated HMM is more compact, presumably due to head-head or RLC-RLC interactions. All-atom MD simulations corroborate our TR-FRET studies, and reveal specific salt-bridges that stabilize each structural state. The hypotheses generated from our MD simulations are being tested experimentally by TR-FRET via site-directed mutagenesis to manipulate charge. These studies offer the first atomic-resolution insight into the structural dynamics of RLC phosphorylation, and a similar approach should be applicable to striated muscle. Spectroscopy was performed in the Biophysical Spectroscopy Center at the University of Minnesota. This work was funded by NIH grants to DDT (R01 AR32961, P30 AR0507220, T32 AR007612).
Survival benefit of induction immunosuppression in cystic fibrosis lung transplant recipients

Abstract Background Despite resistant microbes, induction immunosuppression is used in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) undergoing lung transplantation (LTx). Methods To evaluate the effect of induction immunosuppression on survival, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) was queried restricting analysis to transplant patients 6–55years old from 2001 to 2012, who received induction agents (INDUCED) or did not (NONE). Results A total of 1721 CF patients who underwent LTx were included in the analysis; of these 791 (46%) were INDUCED. Of the INDUCED patients, 65% received basiliximab, 10% alemtuzumab, and 25% thymoglobulin/anti-lymphocyte globulin/anti-thymocyte globulin. Mean age was 28.0years (SD=9.7) and 28.5 (SD=9.5) for the INDUCED and NONE groups, respectively. The median survival in the INDUCED group was 93.8months (95% CI: 73.8, --) compared to 61.8months (95% CI: 55.8–73.8) for the NONE group (log rank p-value Conclusions Antibody-based induction immunosuppression had a survival benefit in CF patients undergoing LTx.
Application of latex microspheres in the isolation of plasma membranes. Affinity density perturbation of erythrocyte membranes.

Abstract Immunolatex spheres, originally developed as visual markers for scanning electron miscroscopy, were employed as membrane density perturbation reagents. Methacrylate spheres were bound to antibody molecules and used to label antigens on erythrocytes. Ghosts prepared from labeled cells were subjected to isopycnic centrifugation on continuous sucrose and dextran gradients. It was found that the labeled erythrocyte membranes had a substantially higher density than unlabeled membranes. The extent to which the membrane density was shifted on a given gradient depended on the number, size and density of the latex spheres and could be closely predicted by theory. These results suggest that the reagents and techniques described here have potential application for the isolation of plasma membranes from more complex cell types.
Nonlinear quantitative structure-activity relationship for the inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase by pyrimidines

A novel method for quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis is presented. The method, which does not assume any particular functional form for the QSAR, develops nonlinear relationships between parameters describing a set of molecules and the activity of the molecules. For the QSAR of the inhibition of Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase by 2,4-diamino-5-(substituted benzyl)pyrimidines, the method compares favorably to other nonlinear methods. Cross-validation trials demonstrate that the predictive ability is as accurate as other methods, and the method is simpler and faster than neural network and machine-learning methods. Consequently, its implementation is much easier, and interpretation of the generated QSAR is more straightforward.
Impact shock and penetration fragmentation in porous media

In this paper, we discuss experimental, analytical, and computational techniques for studying the high velocity interaction of solid bodies with low density media. We assume that the velocity of the interaction is such that compressible effects in the solid are important. We are particularly interested in the dynamic mechanisms of deformation, erosion, and breakup which dominate the solid response at these high velocities. This is a problem of considerable current interest. Applications include the atmospheric propagation of high velocity aerosols, such as those that might be created in certain kinds of nuclear reactor accidents and explosive weapon accidents. An even more novel application is to the study of the impact of astrophysical bodies, such as meteors, asteroids, and comet fragments into planetary atmospheres. There is significant concern over the threats posed by impacts of these kinds on the earth. We will discuss the application of our methodology to understanding these impacts. In particular, we suggest that the experimental technique we present is applicable to scaled laboratory simulations of some of the phenomena that are believed to be important in atmospheric impacts.
Design and performance of a laser guide star system for the Keck II telescope

A laser system to generate sodium-layer guide stars has been designed, built and delivered to the Keck Observatory in Hawaii. The system uses frequency doubled YAG lasers to pump liquid dye lasers and produces 20 W of average power. The design and performance results of this laser system are presented.
The Write Stuff: Teaching the Introductory Public Relations Writing Course.

Abstract This article provides guidance for an instructor looking to develop or to refine a basic or introductory public relations writing course. The objectives of the public relations writing course are presented along with assignments designed to meet these objectives. A sample grading rubric is provided along with an evaluation of the major public relations writing textbooks and how they cover the various communication tactics used in public relations.
Chemical osmosis, reverse chemical osmosis, and the origin of subsurface brines (reply to a comment by F. M. Phillips)

Abstract The osmotic inefficiency of shales makes it possible for the aquathermal pressuring below shale insulators in thick sedimentary sequences to drive reverse chemical osmosis. Topographic relief will also be effective in many localities. The latter mechanism is helpful in explaining the observed substitution for marine water molecules of fresh-water ones in the pore fluids of marine sedimentary sequences.
High power tunable femtosecond visible and infrared light from a synchronized Ti:sapphire/Nd:YAG laser system by difference frequency mixing

Abstract High power, 20 Hz repetition rate difference frequency mixing of externally synchronized femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser radiation with harmonics of a phase locked picosecond Nd:YAG laser, in a BBO crystal, is shown to produce femtosecond pulses in the visible (666 nm) and infrared (1.77 μm) regions. Using 50 μJ of 760 nm amplified Ti:sapphire light, outputs of tens of microjoules at 666 nm, or several microjoules at 1.77 μm, were achieved. This technique can be used to extend the tuning range (720–1000 nm) of the Ti:sapphire laser into the visible (550–700 nm) and the infrared (1.1–2.0 μm) regions of the spectrum.
9-Nitrocamptothecin Liposome Aerosol Treatment of Human Cancer Subcutaneous Xenografts and Pulmonary Cancer Metastases in Mice

The purpose of this study was to test the anticancer properties of the water-insoluble derivative of camptothecin, 9-nitrocamptothecin (9NC), administered in a liposome formulation (L-9NC) in aerosol to mice with subcutaneous xenografts of three human cancers and in mice with murine melanoma and human osteosarcoma pulmonary metastases. The drug was formulated with dilauroylphosphatidylcholine and nebulized in particle sizes of 1.2-1.6 microns mass median aerodynamic diameter and a geometric standard deviation of 2.0. The aerosol was generated with the nebulizer flowing at 10 l/min and delivered to mice in sealed plastic cages or in a nose-only exposure chamber. Aerosol was administered for 15 min to 2 hr daily, delivering deposited doses in the respiratory tract of 8.1-306.7 micrograms of 9NC/kg. With subcutaneous tumors, growth was greatly inhibited or tumors were undetectable after several weeks of treatment. We also showed that oral dosage with L-9NC had no detectable effect on cancer growth, and thus the benefit from aerosol treatment was due to pulmonary deposition and not the larger fraction of drug deposited in the nose of mice during aerosol treatment which is promptly swallowed. Intramuscular L-9NC in slightly larger doses than given in the aerosol had detectable anticancer activity, but it was significantly less than in mice receiving the drug by aerosol. With metastatic pulmonary cancers, treated animals showed highly significantly less cancer growth than control animals. L-9NC aerosol showed a major therapeutic benefit in the treatment of subcutaneous human cancer xenografts in nude mice, suggesting that cancers at systemic sites might be responsive to this treatment. In addition, the strong anticancer effect of L-9NC aerosol on pulmonary metastases offers a therapeutic approach for treatment of pulmonary cancers. Thus, L-9NC aerosol may have applicability in the treatment of cancers throughout the body.
Cardiac muscle: changes in optimal length during inotropic interventions.

Des courbes exprimant le rapport longueurtension dans le muscle papillaire du chat furent etudiees en comparant des changements successifs de longueur. En traitant la preparation avec des substances inotropes, on produisit souvent des modifications marquees de la longueur optimale. Ces modifications peuvent avoir une importance dans la relation volume-pression du cœur intact.
The role of visual cues in the facilitation of growth in a schooling fish

This study tested the hypothesis that visual contact between fish may result in enhanced rates of growth in a schooling fish. Juvenile chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta, were held singly and reared in isolation or in visual contact with conspecifics. Fish were fed at either a low (6% body weight d−1) or high (20% body weight d−1) ration for 42d. Specific rates of weight gain were 18% greater at low ration and 38% greater at high ration for fish in visual contract with conspecifics than for those held in isolation. The results demonstrate a selective advantage of visual cues associated with schooling behavior and suggest that the efficacy of growth models for schooling fishes may be enhanced by the consideration of social interactions which may facilitate growth.
Lipoprotein subclasses and particle size determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in systemic lupus erythematosus

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have accelerated atherosclerosis, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The size and number of lipoprotein particles may be better predictors of atherosclerosis than conventional cholesterol measurements. We measured lipoprotein subclasses by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), coronary artery calcification by electron beam computed tomography, and insulin resistance by homeostasis model assessment in 105 patients with SLE and 77 control subjects. VLDL particles were larger (50.0 ± 8.5 versus 47.7 ± 8.5 nm, P = 0.01) and concentrations of large high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles lower (10.1 ± 5.3 versus 11.3 ± 5.1 nmol/L, P = 0.03) in patients with SLE than controls. In patients with SLE, small LDL concentration was associated with body mass index (rho = 0.27), insulin resistance (rho = 0.34), C-reactive protein (CRP; rho = 0.30), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; rho = 0.20); all P < 0.05. Large HDL concentration was inversely associated with insulin resistance (rho = −0.29), disease activity (rho = −0.23), and ESR (rho = −0.39); all P < 0.05. VLDL concentrations correlated with CRP (rho = 0.22), ESR (rho = 0.24), disease damage (rho = 0.20), and corticosteroid exposure (rho = 0.29); all P < 0.05. Neither the concentration of lipoprotein subclasses nor particle size was associated with coronary artery atherosclerosis. There were only minor differences in the NMR lipid profiles of patients with SLE and controls. Lipoprotein subclasses were associated with metabolic variables, inflammatory markers, and corticosteroid use but not with coronary artery atherosclerosis in SLE.
Histopathologic effects of JP-4 aviation fuel on fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas).

The objective of this preliminary study using fathead minnows was to determine which tissues and organs are affected by acute exposure to the water soluble fraction (WSF) of JP-4 aviation fuel. The results suggest that the olfactory rosette and possibly the pseudobranch and gill of the fathead minnow are injured by acute exposure to WSF JP-4. These observations are in accordance with results other researchers have found studying the toxic effect of hydrocarbon fuels on teleosts. It is believed that these selected tissues should be examined when utilizing fish for environmental toxicological research involving hydrocarbons.
Agricultural technology and farm-nonfarm growth linkages

Abstract Agricultural growth stimulates rural nonfarm activity by boosting demand for production inputs and consumer goods. But different kinds of agricultural technology promote different patterns of nonfarm linkages. To explore how key features of agricultural technology affect growth in the rural nonfarm economy, this paper reviews an array of cross-section and time-series evidence bearing on the dynamics of the rural nonfarm economy. Then, using consumption and production parameters associated with different agricultural technologies, it introduces a simple model which isolates the effects of different technologies on nonfarm growth linkages.
School Consultation: A Review of Research on Issues Unique to the School Environment

ABSTRACT Objective To provide clinicians with current information to assist in their consultations to schools on 4 major topics that are unique to the school environment and of serious concern to educators: absenteeism, disciplinary referrals, retention (nonpromotion), and dropping out. Method Computer literature searches and the major journals of the various school disciplines were used to identify empirically based articles with sound methodology. Information on each of the 4 issues is presented as general characteristics, characteristics of psychopathology, prevention and treatment, and implications for consultation. Results Findings are largely general, with little specific information on level of intelligence, learning disorders, psychopathology, or family stressors. Students under each topic have varied presentations. However, many pupils with absenteeism, disciplinary referrals, or retention appear to be characterized by chronic and serious academic and/or behavior problems, all of which can predate dropping out. Conclusions Considerable research is still needed on all 4 school issues, especially psychopathology. Nevertheless, consultants can reasonably first help schools to identify students at risk for the 4 outcomes, followed by appropriate screening/evaluation to indicate more clearly their true intervention needs. The ongoing process can further educate school staff about psychiatric disorders in their most problematic students.
Forearm interosseous membrane imaging and anatomy

To determine the regional thickness variation of the interosseous membrane (IOM) along the forearm and validate magnetic resonance imaging of the IOM with laser micrometry. Axial thickness measurements of 12 cadaver forearms were obtained using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at radial, central, and ulnar locations. The specimens were dissected, and IOM thickness measured using a laser micrometer. MRI and laser measurements of the main and oblique IOM bundles were compared. An axial thickness profile was plotted versus forearm length, and radial, central, and ulnar positions were compared. The main bundle thickness was 2.18±0.20 mm using laser micrometry, which was not significantly different from MRI measurements (1.86±0.25 mm, p=0.11, power = 0.84). The dorsal oblique bundle thickness was not significantly different between measurement methods (2.93±0.77 mm and 3.30±1.64 mm using laser micrometry and MRI respectively, p=0.75, power = 0.04). Both methods demonstrated a progressive increase in thickness proximally within the forearm. MRI measurements demonstrated a significantly greater thickness increase in the radial location compared to the central location (slope = 2.26 and 1.05, r2=0.31 and 0.12 respectively, p 0.05). Our findings describe the varying IOM anatomy using MRI, and determined the location of the clinically important IOM fiber bundles. This study confirms the accuracy of MR imaging of the IOM by comparison with a laser micrometer, and demonstrates the thickness variation along the forearm. This information may be used to identify changes in IOM anatomy with both acute IOM injury and chronic fiber attenuation.
Genetic Population Structure of Cagle's Map Turtle (Graptemys caglei) in the Guadalupe and San Marcos Rivers of Texas—A Landscape Perspective

We investigated genetic variability in 101 individuals of the Cagle's Map Turtle (Graptemys caglei) collected from across most of its extant distribution in the Guadalupe River and from a site on the San Marcos River of Texas. Analyses of allelic variation in microsatellite loci indicated individuals from the San Marcos River were genetically similar to conspecifics from the middle Guadalupe River. Turtles from the upper Guadalupe River, on the other hand, were genetically divergent from middle Guadalupe River individuals. Isolation by distance appears to play a major role in genetic structuring within the Guadalupe River. Anthropogenic features (e.g., dams and reservoirs), while they may be expected to restrict gene flow, appear to have had little impact on genetic structure.
Effects of trimethyltin on the immune system of rats

Abstract Treatment with trimethyltin (TMT) induced atrophy of the thymus, spleen and lymph nodes within 2 days, but no changes in the bone marrow were observed. Atrophy of thymus and spleen did not occur in adrenal-ectomized rats treated with TMT. Antibody responses to sheep erythrocytes (SRBC) and proliferative responses of spleen lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A (ConA) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were suppressed significantly in treated rats. Delayed hypersensivity to oxazalone, natural killer (NK) cell activity and the phagocytic activity of peritoneal macrophages (PEM) were not affected significantly.
The Genus Chrysomya (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the New World

Four Chrysomya species have recently become established in the Americas and are spreading rapidly. Chrysomya albiceps and C. putoria (= C. chloropyga form putoria ) in Peru, C. putoria in Colombia, are reported for the first time. Previously unrecognized specimens of Chrysomya taken in South America in the late 1800's and in 1961 in Puerto Rico are proof of past unsuccessful introductions. Estimated maximum dispersal rates for C. rufifacies (3.2 km/day) and C. albiceps and C. putoria (1.8 km/day), enhanced by their hitchhiking habits and synanthropy, account for their rapid spread in South America. On the eastern slope of the Peruvian Andes, C. putoria occurs mainly below 1000 m, while C. albiceps flourishes from 1000 to 3100 m in areas with an annual median temperature range of 11–23 °C. Data are presented on synanthropy, endophily, and bait preferences for C. putoria and C. albiceps in Peru. Sampling the same Peruvian localities in 1977, 1980, and 1981 has demonstrated that Cochliomyia macellaria is suppressed as populations of C. putoria and C. albiceps increase. At 1000 m, near San Ramon, where C. putoria and C. albiceps are equally numerous, Co. macellaria plummeted in 18 months from 89 to 0.2% of the total blow fly population. At 200 m, near Pto. Bermudez, where C. albiceps is rare, Co. macellaria suppresssion has been less severe (45.5 to 1 1.3%). Bionomic and other factors favoring displacement of Co. macellaria are discussed.
Interaction of benzo[a]pyrene diol-epoxide with nuclei and isolated chromatin

Abstract Chicken erythrocyte chromatin and nuclei were labeled with benzo[ a ]pyrene (B[ a ]P) diol-epoxide (anti) and digested with micrococcal nuclease to mono- and dinucleosomes. Analysis of the distribution of the carcinogen showed that the internucleosomal region bound 3–4 times more carcinogen per unit DNA than did nucleosomes. The enhanced binding of the ‘ultimate’ carcinogen to the internucleosomal region was similar when isolated chromatin or nuclei were used for in vitro labeling. Furthermore, isolation of the histone core proteins, H2A, H2B, H3 and H4, revealed that only 15% of the carcinogen was associated with the histones and that the majority of the carcinogen was bound to chromosomal DNA. Fluorography of purified nucleosomal histones showed that the covalent association of the carcinogen was mainly with histones H3 and H2B.
Disease-specific alterations in glutamatergic neurotransmission on inhibitory interneurons in the prefrontal cortex in schizophrenia.

Glutamatergic modulation of inhibitory interneurons plays a crucial role in shaping the flow of information in the cerebral cortex. In a cohort of postmortem human brains from schizophrenia (n=20), bipolar disorder (n=20) and normal control (n=20) subjects, we colocalized the mRNA for the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor NR2A subunit, labeled with [35S], and the mRNA for the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) synthesizing enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)67, labeled with digoxigenin. We found that the density of GAD67+ neurons in layers 2–5 of the prefrontal cortex was decreased by 27–36 % in both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In addition, the density of the GAD67+/NR2A+ neurons was decreased by 57 % and 49 % in layers 3 and 4, respectively, in schizophrenia, but it was unchanged in bipolar disorder. These findings raise the possibility that glutamatergic innervation of inhibitory interneurons via the NMDA receptor in the prefrontal cortex may be selectively altered in schizophrenia.
Smoking withdrawal is associated with increases in brain activation during decision making and reward anticipation: a preliminary study

Rationale Acute nicotine abstinence is associated with disruption of executive function and reward processes; however, the neurobiological basis of these effects has not been fully elucidated.
Effect of Dietary Vitamin E Supplementation and Refrigerated Storage on Quality of Rainbow Trout Fillets

Rainbow trout were fed a low vitamin E (200 mg/kg; LVE) or a high vitamin E (5000 mg/kg; HVE) diet for 9 wk to characterize the effect of vitamin E supplementation at 5000 mg/kg on fillet quality. Fish were sampled at 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 9 wk of the trial. Fillets were stored at 2 °C for 0, 7, and 14 d, and analyzed for pH, psychrotrophic counts, color, cook yield, shear force, crude fat and moisture content, α-tocopherol, fatty acid composition, and lipid oxidation. There was a significant feeding duration by fillet storage time interaction for psychrotrophic counts, crude fat content, cook yield, and shear force. Fillet L* value was not affected by diet, feeding duration or storage time. Fillet a* was lowest at 14-d storage, and b* values increased with fillet storage time. High vitamin E diet increased fillet α-tocopherol from 33 to 155 mg/kg. High vitamin E decreased palmitic acid and increased linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids. Feeding through 9 wk increased the relative proportions of unsaturated, polyunsaturated, and omega-3 fatty acids, and decreased saturated and omega-6 fatty acids. At 0-d storage, HVE diet did not affect thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) at any sampling week, and fasted fish generated fewer TBARS compared to non-fasted fish.
The effects of terbium on the cellular accumulation of cisplatin in MDA-MB-231 human breast tumor cells.

Purpose: Cisplatin (DDP) is an effective antitumor agent limited in its efficacy by the development of tumor cell resistance. The defective accumulation of DDP has been shown to be a prominent feature in many DDP-resistant cell lines. In an effort to circumvent this problem, we examined the cellular accumulation of DDP in the presence of terbium (Tb3+). We also examined the effects of verapamil on the cellular accumulation of DDP in order to delineate the specific interaction of Tb3+ and DDP. All experiments were performed on DDP-sensitive or DDP-resistant MDA-MB-231 human breast tumor cells. Methods: The cellular accumulation of DDP and verapamil were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Time-resolved luminescence spectroscopy was used to obtain equilibrium binding constants for the Tb3+/MDA cell complexes. Results: We found that 100 μM Tb3+ increased DDP accumulation in the parent MDA cell line, 5.7-fold resistant MDA/A13 and 10-fold resistant MDA/CH cells by 56.2±7.4, 71.9±9.4 and 50.8±9.4%, respectively (P<0.0001 for all MDA cell types). In contrast, 20 μM verapamil had no significant effect on DDP accumulation in the MDA cell lines. In addition, a positive correlation between the membrane binding of Tb3+ and the cellular accumulation of DDP was found to exist in the parent cell line and sublines (r=0.9). Conclusions: In agreement with earlier studies, the plasma membrane of MDA cell lines contain a specific Tb3+-binding protein. Our findings suggest that the Tb3+-binding protein may be intimately associated with the accumulation of DDP in breast tumor cells.
A new goat adenovirus isolate proposed as the prototype strain for goat adenovirus serotype 1

A virus isolated from the brain of a 3-year-old goat with encephalitis was identified as an adenovirus based on morphological and physicochemical characteristics. Neutralization tests and restriction endonuclease analysis comparing the caprine adenovirus with the prototype ovine and bovine adenovirus serotypes indicated that the caprine isolate was antigenically different and produced a unique restriction pattern and may represent a new adenovirus species. A limited seroepidemiologic study using adult goat and sheep sera collected from around the Unites States indicated that approximately 60 and 80 percent, respectively, had specific antibody for this isolate.
High-Affinity Triple Helix Formation by Synthetic Oligonucleotides at a Site within a Selectable Mammalian Gene

Specific recognition of duplex DNA by a single-stranded oligonucleotide via the formation of triplex DNA is a rational approach for targeting specific regions of a genome. By screening a number of potential target sites for triple helix formation within mammalian genes that allow genetic selection in cell culture, we have identified a site within intron 1 of the hamster adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT) gene that specifically binds a triplex-forming oligodeoxyribonucleotide (TFO) with high affinity. Under optimal conditions for triplex formation, the equilibrium dissociation constant is in the nanomolar range (Kd = 7 x 10(-10) M). This high-affinity binding is very specific, as a 10(5)-fold excess of genomic DNA reduced triplex formation less than 10-fold, and within a 6928-bp plasmid bearing the APRT gene, only restriction fragments containing the intron 1 site were found to bind the TFO. Results of DNase I protection assays were consistent with the TFO binding in an antiparallel orientation via reverse Hoogsteen hydrogen bonds in the major groove of the duplex. We have examined the kinetics of triplex formation as well as the effects of ionic composition and chemical modifications of the TFO on triplex formation. While divalent cations were not required for triplex formation, Mg2+ stabilized the triplex apparently through inhibition of TFO dissociation, with a mean bound lifetime of > 17 h for the triplex at Mg2+ concentrations above 5 mM.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)