cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fetal myelomeningocele repair: short-term clinical outcomes.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The study was undertaken to evaluate short-term clinical outcomes with antenatal myelomeningocele (MMC) repair. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review of 50 fetuses that underwent open fetal MMC closure was performed. Inclusion criteria included less than 26 weeks' gestation, thoracic to S1 level defect, absent clubfoot deformity, Arnold-Chiari malformation, ventriculomegaly less than 17 mm, normal karyotype, and no other anomalies. RESULTS: Perinatal survival was 94% (47/50 fetuses). Mean age at delivery was 34 weeks 3 days. All fetuses demonstrated reversal of hindbrain herniation. Forty-three percent of the 50 fetuses have required ventriculoperitoneal shunting compared with 100% thoracic, 88% lumbar, and 68% sacral (85% overall) in 297 historic controls. Better-than-predicted leg function was seen in 57% of thoracic and lumbar level lesion patients. CONCLUSION: Early experience with fetal MMC repair suggests a decreased need for ventriculoperitoneal shunting, arrest or slowing of progressive ventriculomegaly, and consistent resolution of hindbrain herniation. However, further long-term follow-up is needed to evaluate neurodevelopment and bladder and bowel function.
NLRB v. Health Care & Retirement Corporation of America, Inc.: A challenge for the nursing profession

In May 1994 the United States Supreme Court delivered a ruling with a negative impact on the quality and integrity of nursing practice. Equally problematic is that the inherent lack of clarity of existing practice boundaries within the nursing profession itself may have perpetuated the decision.
Structural insights of non-canonical U•U pair and Hoogsteen interaction probed with Se atom

Unlike DNA, in addition to the 2'-OH group, uracil nucleobase and its modifications play essential roles in structure and function diversities of non-coding RNAs. Non-canonical U•U base pair is ubiquitous in non-coding RNAs, which are highly diversified. However, it is not completely clear how uracil plays the diversifing roles. To investigate and compare the uracil in U-A and U•U base pairs, we have decided to probe them with a selenium atom by synthesizing the novel 4-Se-uridine ((Se)U) phosphoramidite and Se-nucleobase-modified RNAs ((Se)U-RNAs), where the exo-4-oxygen of uracil is replaced by selenium. Our crystal structure studies of U-A and U•U pairs reveal that the native and Se-derivatized structures are virtually identical, and both U-A and U•U pairs can accommodate large Se atoms. Our thermostability and crystal structure studies indicate that the weakened H-bonding in U-A pair may be compensated by the base stacking, and that the stacking of the trans-Hoogsteen U•U pairs may stabilize RNA duplex and its junction. Our result confirms that the hydrogen bond (O4(…)H-C5) of the Hoogsteen pair is weak. Using the Se atom probe, our Se-functionalization studies reveal more insights into the U•U interaction and U-participation in structure and function diversification of nucleic acids.
Clear air turbulence avoidance using an airborne microwave radiometer

The avoidance of Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) is theoretically possible by selecting flight levels that are a safe distance from the tropopause and inversion layers. These favored sites for CAT generation can be located by an 'airborne microwave radiometer' (AMR) passive sensor system that measures altitude temperature profiles. A flight evaluation of the AMR sensor shows that most CAT could be avoided by following sensor-based advisories. Some limitations still exist for any hypothetical use of the sensor. The principal need is to augment the sensor's 'where' advisories to include useful 'when' forecasts.
THE REVENGE OF HEAVEN: A BRIEF METHODOLOGICAL ACCOUNT

A chronological account is provided of the psychopolitical research that led to The Revenge of Heaven, an idiographic study of China's Cultural Revolution, including the problems encountered and th...
Scalar mesons and rare radiative decays of the φ meson

Abstract The scalar mesons, the f o (980) and the a o (980), have been receiving much attention of late. The low values of their masses and widths bring into question their assignment to the 3 P 0 q q scalar nonet and recent Crystal Barrel results have uncovered scalar states with more appropriate masses and widths. It has been suggested that the f o (980) and the a o (980) are molecules or 4-quark states. This talk will review recent results from BNL (Brookhaven AGS) experiment E852 in which the f o (980) and the a o (980) are produced in the ππ and πη channels, respectively, in π − induced reactions. Hadroproduction characteristics of these states may reveal their nature. The a o (980) is also observed in f 1 (1285) → ηππ . At JLAB (formerly CEBAF), an experiment is under construction to look for the rare radiative decays φ → f o (980) γ and φ → a o (980) γ . The ratio of these branching ratios is also expected to provide information on the substructure of these scalars. These measurements are feasible since intense photon beams will yield a high rate of φ's. The possibility also exists of studying low-mass ππ and πη scattering in η ′ → ηππ at BNL and JLAB.
A fatal reaction caused by implantation of adult parental spleen tissue in irradiated F1 mice.

Implantation into irradiated F/sub 1/ hybrids of viable spleen cells from non-irradiated adult mice of the parental strains caused death within 2 to 4 weeks. The fatal reaction occurred even after sublethal doses of radiation or when the recipients were also injected with marrow cells from isologous hybrids or from mice of the same strain as that from which the parent-strain spleen tissue was obtained. The deaths are ascribed to the formation by the implanted cells of antibodies against the recipient. (auth)
Giant Solitary Osteochondroma of the Inferior Medial Calcaneal Tubercle: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Small osteophytes are frequently encountered in the foot and ankle, and are not to be confused with true osteochondromas, which are relatively uncommon in this region. They most often affect long bones of the appendicular skeleton but may involve flat bones as well. Osteochondromas are benign osseous neoplasms with a distinct hyaline cartilage cap originating from the physis and cease growing with skeletal maturity. Osteochondroma are often treated conservatively unless they become symptomatic, painful, demonstrate rapid or new growth, enlarge after skeletal maturity, and/or exhibit signs of malignant transformation. In this report, we present a case of a giant (8 cm × 4.2 cm × 2.1 cm) osteochondroma in an adult occurring on the inferior medial tubercle of the calcaneus that underwent excision, with 3.5 years of follow-up without recurrence. To our knowledge this is the largest osteochondroma affecting the inferior medial tubercle of the calcaneus. This case demonstrates that large osteochondromas may occur in the foot, and also confirms that benign osteochondroma growth may occur in adulthood. A detailed review of osteochondroma occurrence in the foot is presented along with a review of the diagnostic work-up to evaluate for malignant transformation. Level of Clinical Evidence: 4
Disruption of mitochondrial DNA replication in Drosophila increases mitochondrial fast axonal transport in vivo.

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA polymerase (pol γ) cause several progressive human diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alper's syndrome, and progressive external ophthalmoplegia. At the cellular level, disruption of pol γ leads to depletion of mtDNA, disrupts the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and increases susceptibility to oxidative stress. Although recent studies have intensified focus on the role of mtDNA in neuronal diseases, the changes that take place in mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial axonal transport when mtDNA replication is disrupted are unknown. Using high-speed confocal microscopy, electron microscopy and biochemical approaches, we report that mutations in pol γ deplete mtDNA levels and lead to an increase in mitochondrial density in Drosophila proximal nerves and muscles, without a noticeable increase in mitochondrial fragmentation. Furthermore, there is a rise in flux of bidirectional mitochondrial axonal transport, albeit with slower kinesin-based anterograde transport. In contrast, flux of synaptic vesicle precursors was modestly decreased in pol γ−α mutants. Our data indicate that disruption of mtDNA replication does not hinder mitochondrial biogenesis, increases mitochondrial axonal transport, and raises the question of whether high levels of circulating mtDNA-deficient mitochondria are beneficial or deleterious in mtDNA diseases.
Interested in a career as a clinician-scientist?

> The clinician-scientist is uniquely well positioned to determine when an animal disease model is a true representative of a human disease I wave to the graduate student at the door to come in, and continue discussing a patient problem over the phone with my nurse. I need to meet with the student
Spinal cholinergic inhibition of the pressor response to skeletal muscle activation

The purpose of this study was to delineate the role of the cholinergic pathway within the spinal cord in the reflex cardiovascular responses to muscle activity. Based on dose-response experiments, we microdialyzed a 0.1 mM solution of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine into the L7 level of the dorsal horn of anesthetized cats to determine its effects on the mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) responses to static muscle contraction or passive stretch. The peak responses to 1-min contractions and stretches were reduced from control levels after 1 h of drug administration. In four experiments, the cardiovascular responses returned to control levels after a 2-h recovery period. Perfusion of the cholinergic receptor antagonist atropine accentuated the peak MAP response to muscle contraction. By contrast, atropine administration had no effect on the peak MAP adjustment to passive muscle stretch. These data support the hypothesis that increased acetylcholine (ACh) concentrations in the spinal cord inhibit the reflex cardiovascular responses to static muscle contraction. Further, the results suggest that the spinal cholinergic system is activated by metabolic changes in skeletal muscle, but likely unaffected by mechanical muscle changes.
Peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations in sarcoidosis.

Abstract We have determined the numbers of thymus-derived (T) and bone marrow-derived (B) lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of 20 patients with sarcoidosis and 15 healthy controls. T cells were estimated from the number of lymphocytes forming rosettes in vitro with unsensitized sheep red blood cells, and B cells were enumerated by immunofluorescent assesssment of membrane-bound immunoglobulins. The total lymphocyte count was lower in patients with sarcoidosis owing to a depletion of T lymphocytes from the blood. Nonetheless, the relative and absolute numbers of B lymphocytes were significantly increased. These alterations in lymphocyte subpopulations did not show any consistent correlation with the duration of the disease, clinical stage, activity, or treatment. Changes in the subpopulations may be related to both decreased cellular immunity and increased reactivity of the antibody-forming system as commonly seen in sarcoidosis.
Comparison of DNA decatenation by Escherichia coli topoisomerase IV and topoisomerase III: implications for non-equilibrium topology simplification

Type II topoisomerases are essential enzymes that regulate DNA topology through a strand-passage mechanism. Some type II topoisomerases relax supercoils, unknot and decatenate DNA to below thermodynamic equilibrium. Several models of this non-equilibrium topology simplification phenomenon have been proposed. The kinetic proofreading (KPR) model postulates that strand passage requires a DNA-bound topoisomerase to collide twice in rapid succession with a second DNA segment, implying a quadratic relationship between DNA collision frequency and relaxation rate. To test this model, we used a single-molecule assay to measure the unlinking rate as a function of DNA collision frequency for Escherichia coli topoisomerase IV (topo IV) that displays efficient non-equilibrium topology simplification activity, and for E. coli topoisomerase III (topo III), a type IA topoisomerase that unlinks and unknots DNA to equilibrium levels. Contrary to the predictions of the KPR model, topo IV and topo III unlinking rates were linearly related to the DNA collision frequency. Furthermore, topo III exhibited decatenation activity comparable with that of topo IV, supporting proposed roles for topo III in DNA segregation. This study enables us to rule out the KPR model for non-equilibrium topology simplification. More generally, we establish an experimental approach to systematically control DNA collision frequency.
Nucleotide sequence analysis of the capsid genes and the right-hand terminal palindrome of porcine parvovirus, strain NADL-2.

Abstract The genome of the porcine parvovirus, strain NADL-2, has been cloned and the sequence of map units 28 to 100, which is 3670 by in length and contains the capsid coding regions and the right-hand terminal palindrome, has been determined. The sequence shows extensive homology with other parvoviruses such as MVM, H-1, CPV, and FPV in the capsid coding region. Given the information available from these sequences, the regulatory and capsid coding regions for PPV have been proposed and the amino acid sequences of capsid proteins compared. The right end, which has a 188-nucleotide-long imperfect palindromic sequence, has an organization similar to that of other parvoviruses and the homologies in this region with other parvoviruses correspond to the homologies observed in the rest of the respective genomes.
Monte carlo simulations of scattering of waves by a random rough surface with the finite element method and the finite difference method

The finite element and the finite difference methods are applied to Monte Carlo simulations of random rough surface scattering. The advantages of these methods are the banded nature of matrix and the reduction of computer time. These results are also compared with those of Kirchhoff approximation and those of small perturbation theory when applicable.
High-intensity focused US: A potential new treatment for GI bleeding

Abstract Background: High-intensity focused US has been shown to achieve hemostasis in lacerated large veins and arteries. High-intensity focused US was studied as a potential endoscopic treatment for GI bleeding. Methods: A segment of the auricular vein of the rabbit was lacerated longitudinally and then treated with a high-intensity focused US transducer driven at 3.9 MHz (focal intensity of 750 W/cm 2 ) in 15 animals until hemostasis was achieved. Sham treatment was delivered to 3 vessels. Rabbits were euthanized on days 0, 2, 7, 14, and 28 to allow for histologic evaluation of the response to treatment. Results: Hemostasis was achieved in all treated vessels and in none of the sham treatments. Mean treatment time was 13 seconds. Histology initially demonstrated acute thermal injury with subsequent thrombus formation and chronic inflammation leading to replacement of the vessel by fibrous scar tissue. Conclusions: High-intensity focused US causes hemostasis in acutely bleeding veins and results in occlusion of treated vessel with subsequent granulation tissue formation.
Water use by legumes and its effect on soil water status

Legume crops used 10 to 25% more seasonal water than wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) across environments, but WUE (kg dry matter ha −1 mm −1 of water) of legumes was 0 to 25% greater than that of wheat. Green-manure and forage legumes generally had greater water use and WUE than grain legumes, and this was associated with their longer growing season and higher dry matter production. Cumulative water depletion during June to September by green-manure, forage, and grain legumes was 70, 63, and 43 mm greater, respectively, than that of a fallow check, and was not significantly different from that of wheat in two of four environments
Efficiency of some iron-thionine photogalvanic cells

Rabinowitch has suggested that the photogalvanic effect might be used to convert sunlight into electricity. In order to explore this suggestion, some photogalvanic cells using the iron-thionine system as the photosensitive fluid were built and tested. The observed maximum power conversion efficiency was 3 × 10−4 per cent, based on light absorbed. The principal reason for the low efficiency was shown to be polarization of the polished platinum electrodes. Coating the electrodes with platinum black reduced polarization sufficiently, so that it appeared possible to achieve an efficiency of 6 × 10−2 per cent, although this value was not actually observed. In principle, it appeared possible to make further increases in efficiency by increasing electrode area and decreasing the electrolyte resistance. Aside from electrode polarization, the major problem encountered was the rapid loss of the photochemical activity of the dye. No further progress can be made until this problem is solved.
An Immunopathologic Study of Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis Associated with an Ocular Prosthesis

A 21-year-old woman, whose left eye had been enucleated when she was 2 years old, developed giant papillary conjunctivitis and experienced ocular discomfort and increased tearing when she wore her prosthesis. Cultures grew normal flora, and topical antibiotics failed to relieve her symptoms. Immunopathologic studies of a conjunctival biopsy specimen disclosed plasma cells of all five classes of immunoglobulins in the substantia propria and many IgE-containing cells. Russell bodies found in some of the plasma cells were of the IgM and IgG types. The patient was treated with a 2% solution of cromolyn sodium, applied four times a day. Within one month, her symptoms had resolved, there was less conjunctival congestion, and the papillae were much less prominent. Our findings suggested that there may be a heterogenous humoral response in giant papillary conjunctivitis along with a strong immediate (Type I) hypersensitivity component.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PHOTOPERIOD AND AUTOGENY IN CULEX TARSALIS (DIPTERA, CULICIDAE)1

The effect of day length on autogenous expression was tested with a non-selected Washington strain, and an autogeny-selected California strain of Culex tarsalis. When conducted at 2-hour increments, a plateau of maximum response was seen between 10 and 16 hours, with a decline below and above this range. Using paired comparisons at 8 and 16 hours, the long photoperiod group nearly always had a higher proportion of autogeny as well as increased numbers of mature oocytes per autogenous female. This response was also noted when only adults were exposed to diverse photoperiods. Photoperiod is discussed as a significant factor in rate of increase of populations, in addition to the well known effect of higher temperature. Zusammenfassung DIE BEZIEHUNGEN ZWISCHEN PHOTOPERIODE UND AUTOGENIE BEI CULEX TARSALIS (DIPTERA, CULICIDAE). Die Wirkung der Tageslange auf die Expressivitat der Autogenie wurde an einem nicht selektieren Washingtoner Stamm und an einem auf Autogenie ausgelesenen Kalifornischen Stamm von Culex tarsalis untersucht. Bei Prufung in zweistundigen Abstanden ergab sich ein Gleichbleiben der maximalen Reaktion zwischen 10 und 16 Stunden Licht je Tag und eine Abnahme unterhalb und oberhalb dieses Bereichs. Bei paarweisem Vergleich von 8 und 16 Stunden Licht ergaben die langen Photoperioden fast immer einen hoheren Prozentsatz an Autogenie sowie eine gesteigerte Anzahl reifer Oocyten in den autogenen Weibchen. Diese Reaktion wurde auch beobachtet, wenn nur die Imagines den verschiedenen Photoperioden ausgesetzt wurden. Die Tageslange wird als entscheidender Faktor bei der Zuwachsrate der Populationen behandelt, zusatzlich zu der wohlbekannten Wirkung hoherer Temperatur.
An Estimate of the Gas Transfer Rate from Oceanic Bubbles Derived from Multibeam Sonar Observations of a Ship Wake

[1] Measurements of gas transfer rates from bubbles have been made in the laboratory, but these are difficult to extrapolate to oceanic bubbles where populations of surfactants and particulate matter that inhibit gas transfer are different. Measurements at sea are complicated by unknown bubble creation rates that make it difficult to uniquely identify and observe the evolution of individual bubble clouds. One method that eliminates these difficulties is to measure bubbles in a ship wake where bubble creation at any given location is confined to the duration of the passing ship. This method assumes that the mechanisms slowing the gas dissolution of naturally created bubbles act in a similar manner to slow the dissolution of bubbles in a ship wake. A measurement of the gas transfer rate for oceanic bubbles using this method is reported here. A high-frequency upward-looking multibeam echosounder was used to measure the spatial distribution of bubbles in the wake of a twin screw 61-m research vessel. Hydrodynamic forcing functions are extracted from the multibeam data and used in a bubble cloud evolution model in which the gas transfer rate is treated as a free parameter. The output of model runs corresponding to different gas transfer rates is compared to the time-dependent wake depth observed in the data. Results indicating agreement between the model and the data show that the gas transfer rate must be approximately 15 times less then it would be for surfactant-free bubbles in order to explain the bubble persistence in the wake.
A sphenolith in the Terlingua District, Texas

Foreword—The Terlingua Quicksilver Mining District in the Big Bend of the Rio Grande in southwestern Texas (Fig. 1) contains numerous small intrusive masses of diverse shapes and compositions. Some of these have approximately the characteristics of sphenoliths as defined by C. Burckhardt (Geologie de la Sierra de Mazapil et Santa Rosa, Guide des excursions du X Congres Geologique International, Mexico, 1906, Part 26, pp. 33–36, 1906). They are roughly sill-like bodies which are irregularly wedge-shaped and appear to have made way for themselves in part by pushing aside the strata encountered. The intrusion of this character which forms Study Butte in the eastern part of the Terlingua District has been penetrated by extensive mine-workings, which give exceptional opportunity for study. The data on which the following description of the intrusion is based were obtained from studies of the accessible parts of the mine-workings coupled with plane-table mapping of the surface. The records of a number of diamond-drill holes gave information as to parts of the intrusive mass not yet reached in mining. The examination was made as part of an investigation of the Terlingua District carried out in 1934 for the United States Geological Survey with funds allotted by the Public Works Administration.
On the hypothesis that the failing heart is energy starved: Lessons learned from the metabolism of ATP and creatine

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine fall in the failing heart. New insights into the control of ATP synthesis, supply, and utilization, and how this changes in the failing heart, have emerged. In this article, we address four questions: What are the mechanisms explaining loss of ATP and creatine from the failing heart? What are the consequences of these changes? Can metabolism be manipulated to restore a normal ATP supply? Does increasing energy supply have physiologic consequences (ie, does it lead to improved contractile [systolic and/or diastolic] performance)? In part 1 we focus on ATP, in part 2 on creatine, and in part 3 on the relationship between creatine and purine metabolism and purine nucleotide signaling.
Assessment of fusion facility dose rate map using mesh adaptivity enhancements of hybrid Monte Carlo/deterministic techniques

Abstract Three mesh adaptivity algorithms were developed to facilitate and expedite the use of the CADIS and FW-CADIS hybrid Monte Carlo/deterministic techniques in accurate full-scale neutronics simulations of fusion energy systems with immense sizes and complicated geometries. First, a macromaterial approach enhances the fidelity of the deterministic models without changing the mesh. Second, a deterministic mesh refinement algorithm generates meshes that capture as much geometric detail as possible without exceeding a specified maximum number of mesh elements. Finally, a weight window coarsening algorithm decouples the weight window mesh and energy bins from the mesh and energy group structure of the deterministic calculations in order to remove the memory constraint of the weight window map from the deterministic mesh resolution. The three algorithms were used to enhance an FW-CADIS calculation of the prompt dose rate throughout the ITER experimental facility and resulted in a 23.3% increase in the number of mesh tally elements in which the dose rates were calculated in a 10-day Monte Carlo calculation. Additionally, because of the significant increase in the efficiency of FW-CADIS simulations, the three algorithms enabled this difficult calculation to be accurately solved on a regular computer cluster, eliminating the need for a world-class super computer.
Identification Of aldoses by use of their peracetylated aldononitrile derivatives: A G.L.C-M.S. approach☆

Abstract The g.l.c. retention-times and detector responses have been examined for peracetylated aldononitrile derivatives from aldoses. Correlations have been made between changes in g.l.c. retention-times and changes in the stereochemistry and functional groups of the parent aldose. The mass spectra [electron impact (e.i.), ammonia chemical ionization (c.i.), and methane c.i.] for these g.l.c. peaks were recorded. C.i.-mass spectrometry (m.s.) indicated the molecular weights of the derivatives, and the number of aldehyde and alcohol groups in the parent aldose. E.i.-m.s. indicated the nature and position of functional groups present in the parent aldose. Aldoses containing acetamido, amino, deoxy, and thio substituents were studied.
Differential abilities of Th1 and Th2 to induce polyclonal B cell proliferation

Human gamma globulin-specific T helper cell (Th) clones, activated by HGG in the presence of antigen (Ag)-presenting cells, stimulated polyclonal B cell proliferation. Both Th1 and Th2 clones induced B cell proliferation, but Th1 clones were generally 5- to 10-fold less efficient than Th2 in this capacity. Th1 and Th2 each induced proliferation of both small and large B cells, although Th1 induced less B cell proliferation than Th2, regardless of B cell size. Th1-induced B cell proliferation was increased significantly by stimulating the Th1 clones with immobilized anti-CD3 mAb. The B cell response to Ag-activated Th1 clones was also increased by the addition of rIL-4 or culture supernatants from activated Th2 clones, and this enhancement was abolished by addition of anti-IL-4 mAb. The differential capacity of the Th subsets to stimulate B cells could not be attributed to differences in the degree of Ag-induced activation of the Th clones as reflected by Th proliferation or Th expression of activation markers, RL388 Ag, IL-2R, or TfR. Taken together the results suggest that even though Th1 and Th2 are similarly activated by Ag-presenting cells, Ag-activated Th2 interact more effectively with B cells than Ag-activated Th1. It is possible that inefficient interaction and subsequent intercellular signaling between Th1 and B cells results in inefficient Th1-induced B cell proliferation, and that this deficiency may be circumvented by signals (e.g., lymphokines) provided by Th2, or by the stimulation of Th1 with plate-bound anti-CD3 Ab rather than Ag.
Sexual reproduction in the Candida clade: cryptic cycles, diverse mechanisms, and alternative functions

To have sex, or not to have sex, is a question posed by many microorganisms. In favor of a sexual lifestyle is the associated rearrangement of genetic material that confers potential fitness advantages, including resistance to antimicrobial agents. The asexual lifestyle also has benefits, as it preserves complex combinations of genes that may be optimal for pathogenesis. For this reason, it was thought that several pathogenic fungi favored strictly asexual modes of reproduction. Recent approaches using genome sequencing, population analysis, and experimental techniques have now revised this simplistic picture. It is now apparent that many pathogenic fungi have retained the ability to undergo sexual reproduction, although reproduction is primarily clonal in origin. In this review, we highlight the current understanding of sexual programs in the Candida clade of species. We also examine evidence that sexual-related processes can be used for functions in addition to mating and recombination in these organisms.
New methods for wavelength standardisation for near infrared spectrophotometers. Part 1. Review of current standardisation methodology

The role of standardisation in near infrared spectroscopy applications is explored. Different methods for achieving consistency among instruments are described, along with the strengths and weaknes...
Neutral Amino Acid Transport in Astrocytes: Characterization of Na+‐Dependent and Na+‐Independent Components of α‐Aminoisobutyric Acid Uptake

Neutral amino acid transport is largely unexplored in astrocytes, although a role for these cells in blood-brain barrier function is suggested by their close apposition to cerebrovascular endothelium. This study examined the uptake into mouse astrocyte cultures of alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (AIB), a synthetic model substrate for Na+-dependent system A transport. Na+-dependent uptake of AIB was characteristic of system A in its pH sensitivity, kinetic properties, regulatory control, and pattern of analog inhibition. The rate of system A transport declined markedly with increasing age of the astrocyte cultures. There was an unexpectedly active Na+-independent component of AIB uptake that declined less markedly than system A transport as culture age increased. Although the saturability of the Na+-independent component and its pattern of analog inhibition were consistent with system L transport, the following properties deviated: (1) virtually complete inhibition of Na+-independent AIB uptake by characteristic L system substrates, suggesting unusually high affinity of the transporter; (2) apparent absence of trans-stimulation of AIB influx; (3) unusually concentrative uptake at steady state (the estimated distribution ratio for 0.2 mM AIB was 55); and (4) susceptibility to inhibition by N-ethylmaleimide. Direct study of the uptake of system L substrates in astrocytes is needed to confirm the present indications of high affinity and concentrative Na+-independent transport.
Women Doctors Win and Male Nurses Lose: A Study of Sex Role and Occupational Stereotypes

Impressions of male and female medical and nursing students are compared in a sample of high-school students. There are few differences in the ratings of the male and female medical students and both are described as competent and attractive. However, male nursing students are rated as unattractive, unrealistic, and unambitious. The results suggest that men entering a predominantly female profession may be perceived as more deviant than women entering a predominantly male profession.
An Evaluation of Beta Titanium Alloys for Use in Orthodontic Appliances

A beta titanium alloy was evaluated for use in orthodontic appliances. Standard mechanical tests and a specially designed spring test were used. Two particular thermo-mechanical treatments resulted in titanium springs with 1.8 times the extension of comparable stainless steel springs, and a 2.2 fold reduction in force per unit displacement.
Plasma membrane calcium ATPase in synaptic terminals of chick Edinger-Westphal neurons

Abstract The plasma membrane calcium ATPase pump (PMCA) is one of two major mechanisms known to be involved in extruding calcium from cells. The monoclonal antibody 5F10 was used to examine the distribution of PMCA in chick Edinger-Westphal neurons, a population of cholinergic preganglionic neurons whose cells bodies reside in the Edinger-Westphal nucleus in the brainstem and whose axons form synaptic terminals on parasympathetic neurons in the ciliary ganglion. Definitive PMCA immunoreactivity was undetectable in Edinger-Westphal cell bodies in the brainstem. In contrast, immunoreactivity for PMCA was robust in ciliary ganglia and resembled patterns of immunoreactivity for the synaptic vesicle antigen SV-2, suggesting that PMCA is expressed in Edinger-Westphal synaptic terminals. Moreover, PMCA immunoreactivity co-localized with immunoreactivity for enkephalin and substance P, two neuropeptides known to be expressed in Edinger-Westphal synaptic terminals. Fine structure studies revealed that PMCA immunoreactivity is associated with synaptic vesicles rather than the plasma membrane in Edinger-Westphal terminals. In immunodot assays, synaptic vesicles purified fromTorpedo electric organ are also immunoreactive for PMCA as well as SV-2.Torpedo vesicles are negative for the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum ATPase, suggesting that the observed PMCA immunoreactivity is not associated with smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Immunoblot analysis confirmed that 51710 recognizes a protein with the correct molecular mass for PMCA in tissue homogenates of chick cerebellum, chick ciliary ganglia, andTorpedo synaptic vesicles. These findings describe a previously unrecognized location for PMCA in the membranes of cholinergic synaptic vesicles. Relevance to previous data and possible functions are discussed.
Maintained function of foreign and appropriate junctions of reinnervated goldfish extraocular muscle

1. The ability of a multiply innervated muscle to become dually innervated, that is to accept a functional innervation from both its original and a foreign nerve, was investigated using the superior oblique muscle (s.o. muscle) of the goldfish.2. Dual innervation of s.o. muscles was achieved by allowing the original nerve (cranial NIV) to regenerate to its s.o. muscle which had been previously denervated and cross-innervated by a foreign nerve (cranial NIII), or by allowing the original and the foreign nerve to regenerate simultaneously to a denervated muscle.3. Behavioural observations suggested that in some fish reinnervation of the s.o. muscle by its original nerve repressed the function of a previously established foreign innervation. However, physiological tests which involved the stimulation of both foreign and appropriate nerves, and the recording of mechanical and electrical activity of the s.o. muscle, demonstrated that there was no functional displacement of foreign innervation on these muscles, even on individual dually innervated fibres.4. Dual innervation of the s.o. muscle persisted, apparently unchanged, for as long as the observations were continued (up to 7 months). The s.o. muscle contains two populations of fibres, fast and slow, and both types became and remained dually innervated.5. When both NIII and NIV were allowed to regenerate simultaneously to a denervated s.o. muscle there was no obvious selectivity in the final pattern of innervation. On the average both nerves elicited approximately equal tension from s.o. muscles, and evoked excitatory junctional potentials (e.j.p.s) of similar mean quantal contents.6. ;Myotypic respecification' was shown not to be responsible for the discrepancy between the behavioural results which sugested that repression of foreign innervation had occurred, and the physiological results which demonstrated that this was not the case. Anatomical and physiological findings indicated that the discrepancy was attributable to eye rotation produced by regenerated inferior oblique muscle fibres which contracted simultaneously with the cross-innervated s.o. muscle. The net result was an eye movement in which the activity of the s.o. muscle was masked.7. It is concluded that repression of established foreign neuromuscular connexions following reinnervation by the embryologically correct nerve does not occur on goldfish extraocular muscles. The s.o. muscle can become non-selectively innervated by both foreign and appropriate axons, and remains so, at least for several months.
High-dose calcium channel-blocking therapy for primary pulmonary hypertension: evidence for long-term reduction in pulmonary arterial pressure and regression of right ventricular hypertrophy

In an attempt to produce substantial reductions in pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance in patients with primary pulmonary hypertension, a new treatment strategy using high doses of calcium channel-blocking drugs was developed. Thirteen patients were given an initial test dose of 60 mg diltiazem or 20 mg nifedipine followed by consecutive hourly doses until a 50% fall in pulmonary vascular resistance and 33% fall in pulmonary arterial pressure was achieved or untoward side effects developed. The initial drug challenges failed to produce significant reductions in mean pulmonary arterial pressure or pulmonary vascular resistance. In eight of 13 patients, continued hourly doses produced a reduction in mean pulmonary arterial pressure of 48% (61 to 35 mm Hg, p less than .01) and a reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance of 60% (15 to 6 units, p less than .01). These patients were discharged on high-dose (up to 720 mg/day diltiazem or 240 mg/day nifedipine) calcium channel-blocking drugs as long-term therapy. Five patients have returned for restudy after 1 year. In four of five the reductions in pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance were sustained and were associated with regression of right ventricular hypertrophy as assessed by electrocardiography and echocardiography. One patient who reduced her dose to a conventional level had a return of her pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance toward previous levels. We conclude that substantial reductions in pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance that are associated with regression of right ventricular hypertrophy are possible in some patients with primary pulmonary hypertension by use of calcium channel-blocking drugs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Variable Structure Control of Unsteady Nonlinear Aeroelastic System, with Partial State Information

This paper treats the question of control of a two-degree-of-freedom unsteady aeroelastic system with partial state information in the presence of uncertainties. The chosen model describes the plunge and pitch motion of a wing and a single trailing-edge control surface is utilized for the purpose of control. Based on the Lyapunov approach, a variable structure control law is derived. For the control law derivation, the system is treated as the interconnection of two subsystems in which the subsystem associated with the unsteady aerodynamics is input-to-state stable. The stability property of this subsystem is exploited to generate a dominating signal for feedback; thereby, the problem of state estimation of the subsystem describing the unsteady dynamics is avoided. In the closed-loop system, the pitch angle trajectory tracks reference trajectory and the state vector converges to the origin. The designed variable structure control system is simple compared to adaptive controllers and is synthesized easily using only the measured states. Moreover, the structure of the controller is independent of the dimension of subsystem associated with the unsteady aerodynamics. This is important because in literature this subsystem of varying order has been considered. Simulation results are presented which show that in the closed-loop system, regulation of the plunge and pitch trajectories are accomplished in spite of the uncertainties in the freestream velocity and elastic axis location.
Glucose transport in lactation.

Lactose is the major carbohydrate of human milk and is also the major osmotic constituent of human milk. Therefore, synthesis of lactose is the major determinant of the volume of milk produced by the lactating human mammary gland. Lactose is synthesized from free glucose and UDP-galactose. Thus, glucose transport is required not only across the plasma membrane but also across an intracellular membrane to the compartment of lactose synthesis. The latter requirement is unique to mammary epithelial cells. Historically, based primarily on subcellular fractionation studies, lactose synthesis was thought to occur in Golgi. Yet, the only known glucose transporter isoform expressed in mammary gland is GLUTI, a plasma membrane glucose transporter. We therefore comprehensively studied the possible role of GLUTI as a glucose transporter. We tested the hypothesis that changes in the amount, activity, and subcellular targeting of GLUTI during lactation are consistent with an important role for GLUTI in the regulation of lactation. The experiments described here summarize our recent work in the lactating mouse mammary gland and in mouse mammary epithelial cells in culture. The results demonstrate that GLUTI is targeted to an intracellular compartment. However, studies in mammary epithelial cells in culture demonstrate that this is not a Golgi compartment, but a low-density, exquisitely Brefeldin A-sensitive compartment of Golgi-related vesicles. This raises the possibility that lactose synthesis does not take place in the Golgi proper. The results strongly suggest that GLUTI appears to be important in delivery of substrate to the site of lactose synthesis.
Abstract 3167: Estrogenic regulation of S6 kinase 1 expression creates a positive feed-forward loop in control of breast cancer cell proliferation

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC The 40S ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) acts downstream of the mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), and is sensitive to inhibition by rapamycin. Chromosomal region 17q23 containing the RPS6KB1 gene is frequently amplified in breast cancer cells, and S6K1 is overexpressed in about 30% of cases. Overexpression of S6K1 correlates with increased rapamycin sensitivity. The role of S6K1 in disease development and progression is supported by the observation that S6K1 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. However, the reason for high-level amplification of the RPS6KB1 gene specifically in breast cancer, and not other cancer types is not well understood. We have previously reported that S6K1 regulates growth of breast cancer cells by phosphorylating Estrogen Receptor α (ERα), and co-expression of S6K1 and ERα in breast cancer cells renders them sensitive to combination therapy with rapamycin and tamoxifen. In this study, we demonstrate that in response to estrogen activation, ERα activates expression of S6K1 by upregulating transcription of the RPS6KB1 gene. Increased levels of S6K1 promote further phosphorylation and activation of ERα, creating a positive feed-forward loop. We hypothesize that this relationship promotes breast cancer cell growth, thus providing a selective advantage to S6K1- and ERα-overexpressing cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3167.
Segregation of Mg to the (0001) Surface of Single‐Crystal Alumina: Quantification of AES Results

The actual atomic concentration of Mg segregated to the basal plane of MgO-doped single-crystal alumina surfaces is calculated using an Auger electron spectroscopy quantification method which takes the backscattering factors and Auger electron escape depth into account. The results suggest that Mg segregates as effectively as Ca to Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ interfaces. Plausible reasons why Mg has not been detected previously in the grain boundaries of MgO-doped polycrystalline Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/, while Ca has always been found instead, are discussed.
Rationally Designed Staged Posttensioning to Abate Reflective Cracking on Side-by-Side Box-Beam Bridge Decks

Side-by-side box-beam bridges are often used at sites with tight under-clearance requirements and specified for accelerated construction. However, longitudinal reflective deck cracking is a recurring problem for these bridges and it raises concern for their durability and long-term safety. North American practices of the transverse connection design of this particular bridge are discussed in NCHRP Synthesis 393, and the Michigan design is presented as the preferred procedure. The most recent design in Michigan is an empirical procedure that incorporates the majority of the Synthesis 393 recommended best practices. Yet reflective deck cracking persists. A rational design procedure for which an analysis model was developed is presented here. In the rational design procedure, the analysis model is utilized to calculate the moment demand along the transverse joints. A two-stage transverse posttensioning procedure is recommended following AASHTO load and resistance factor design stipulations based on the momen...
Study of nuclear reactions with intense, high-purity, low-energy radioactive ion beams using a versatile multi-configuration dual superconducting-solenoid system

Abstract A new device (TwinSol) installed at the Nuclear Structure Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame implements a pair of large-bore 6 T superconducting solenoids for producing relatively pure, high-intensity beams of exotic light nuclei at low-energies (10–80 MeV). Typical beams include 8 Li and 6 He (T 1/2
High-Performance Modulators and Switches for Silicon Photonic Networks-on-Chip

The stringent on- and off-chip communications demands of future-generation chip multiprocessors require innovative and potentially disruptive technology solutions, such as chip-scale photonic transmission systems. A space-switched, wavelength-parallel photonic network-on-chip has been shown to equip users with high-bandwidth, low-latency links in an energy-efficient manner. Here, experimental measurements on fabricated silicon photonic devices verify a large set of the components needed to construct these networks. The proposed system architecture is reviewed to motivate the demanding performance requirements of the components. Then, systems-level investigations are delineated for multiwavelength electrooptic modulators and photonic switching elements arranged in 1 × 2, 2 × 2, and 4 × 4 formations. Compact (~10 ?m), high-speed (4 Gb/s) modulators, having a large degree of channel scalability (four channels demonstrated), are demonstrated with excellent data integrity (bit error rates (BERs) 10 dB). Data integrity is also verified for the switches (BERs < 10-12) with power penalty measurements amid dynamic operation. These network component demonstrations verify the feasibility of the proposed system architecture, while previous works have verified its efficacy.
A geometric stability criterion for discrete time systems

A new stability criterion for discrete time systems which is obtained purely from the geometry of stability domain in the canonical parameter space is presented. The stability criterion is simple and recursive in nature. The connection between the new stability criterion and the Schur-Cohn criterion is established, leading to a simple algorithm to find the root distribution with respect to the unit circle. The new stability criterion is shown to be valid for polynomials with complex coefficients as well. This contribution can be viewed as a geometrical interpretation of the existing stability tests.