cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In situ preparation of rat tracheal basal cells

Abstract The primary function of basal cells is to attach columnar epithelium to the basal lamina. They may also have limited stem cell potential, but very little is known of other biological functions. Basal cells lie on the basal lamina beneath the ciliated and secretory cells and do not reach the surface of the epithelium. The position of the cell beneath the ciliated and secretory cell epithelium makes their in situ study difficult. In order to further aid in the study of basal cells, we have developed an in situ preparation technique in which ciliated and secretory cells are removed. Treatment of rat tracheas with a 20 mM Na 2 EDTA solution, pH 7.4, results in partial removal of columnar epithelium from the basal lamina. The percent of denuded columnar epithelial cells per mm of basal lamina is 43.9 ± 7.8% at 60 min, 47.6 ± 8.4% at 90 min, and 52.6 ± 2.7% at 120 min. The viability of the exposed basal cells was the same at both 60 and 90 min of treatment (79.4 ± 7.8 and 78.0 ± 8.5, respectively). Morphologically, the exposed basal cells are attached to the basal lamina by hemidesmosomes and are similar to those in the intact animal.
Life-assessment technology for fossil power plants

During the last decade, construction of new fossil power plants has come to a virtual halt in the United States. The main factors responsible for this situation are: (1) industry perception of the existence of sufficient reserve margins, (2) uncertainty in forecasting load growth, (3) cost of borrowing for new plant construction, (4) siting and licensing problems for new plants, and (5) the applicability of more stringent environmental standards for new plants. Unfortunately, by the year 2000 it is estimated that nearly 20% of all the fossil units will be more than 40 years old, and almost 44% will be more than 30 years old. Based on historical trends, nearly half of all fossil plants have been retired before their fortieth year and three quarters before serving 50 years. In the future this trend is unlikely because of the shrinking reserve margins and the long lead time for new capacity addition. If the life of these aging plants can be extended by 20–30 years, utilities can have a viable low-cost alternative to building new plants while at the same time circumventing some of the regulatory, siting and licensing constraints. In view of this, plant life extension has become an integral part of the planning strategy for many US utilities. A critical component of the Electric Power Research Institute’s (EPRI) efforts in formulating life extension strategies for fossil power plants is the development of techniques to assess the current condition of high-temperature components. These techniques are necessary not only for assessment of the remaining life, but also for avoiding catastrophic failures and forced outages, for setting up inspection intervals and for optimizing the operating procedures. The components that are being addressed at present are boiler pressure parts, steam pipes and steam turbine rotors. This paper will provide a brief overview of current concerns and areas of research where significant progress has been made to address these concerns from a phenomenological point of view.
Photoemission from YbInCu4: Testing the single impurity model

Abstract The electronic properties of single crystal YbInCu4 and YbAgCu4 have been investigated by means of high resolution photoelectron spectroscopy. A first order, isostructural phase transition for YbInCu4 at 42 K leads to changes in the Kondo temperature, of more than an order of magnitude. This phase transition and accompanying Kondo temperature change provide the most direct test of the single impurity model to date. The photoemission results are incongruous with the single impurity model predictions for temperature dependence, binding energy and 4f occupancy, encouraging a re-evaluation of the single impurity model applicability.
A calorimetric method to estimate molecular mobility of amorphous solids at relatively low temperatures.

Purpose To present a calorimetry-based approach for estimating the initial (at the onset of annealing) relaxation time (τ0) of organic amorphous solids at relatively low temperatures, and to assess the temperature where molecular mobility of the amorphous drug is reduced to a level comparable with the desired shelf-life of the product.
Human plasma inflammatory response during 5 days of exercise training in the heat

Abstract The aim of the present investigation was to examine the response of 80 plasma inflammatory analytes during five days of exercise in a hot (38 °C, 40% relative humidity) environment. 15 male participants (25±4yrs, 54±6 ml kg −1 min −1 VO 2 max), with no heat exposure within the previous 3 weeks, were asked to cycle in a hot environment at 70% of their VO 2 max workload until their terminal temperature was obtained, for 5 consecutive days. Terminal temperature was determined as the core temperature at volitional exhaustion or a core temperature of 39.5 °C, whichever came first. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise on day 1 and day 5. Pre-trial urine specific gravity and body weight was not different on day 1 and day 5. Exercise time and heart rate at terminal temperature did not change during the five days. Of the 52 plasma analytes that increased in concentration on day 1, only 30 demonstrated increased concentrations at terminal temperature on day 5. Resting concentrations of 18, both pro- (IL-12p40, IL-15) and anti-inflammatory (IL-1ra, IL-10, IL-13) analytes were elevated on day 5 compared to day 1. We conclude that individuals completing consecutive days of exercise in the heat, but not definitively attaining heat acclimation, have increased resting levels of many inflammatory analytes associated with heat illness, but also demonstrate a reduced inflammatory response to a subsequent bout of exercise in the heat.
Right Heart Pseudotumor Simulated by Ascitic Pseudocyst: An Unusual Complication of Peritoneovenous Shunting

Peritoneovenous shunting (PVS) for intractable ascites has an extensive clinical experience, with several well-described complications. We recently noted an unusual complication of PVS with a Denver shunt. A 37-year-old woman who had placement of a shunt for chylous ascites 18 months prior to presentation demonstrated on a large, mobile mass filling the right atrium which, during atrial systole, partially prolapsed into the right ventricle. At cardiac surgery, a 4 ×10 cm mass with attachment to the tip of the shunt was found. Intracardiac ascitic pseudocyst is a potentially lethal complication of PVS with the Denver shunt which should be considered with a high index of suspicion and evaluated with echocardiography.
Binding characteristics of receptors for phagocytosis on the surface of Amoeba proteus

Binding of the tripeptide n-formylmethionyl-leucylphenylalanine (NFMLP) to phagocytic receptors on the surface of Amoeba proteus was examined. Peptide-binding is reversible and demonstrates saturation kinetics. The receptors for phagocytosis are internalized by a temperature-sensitive process with indications that the receptors are recycled. The amoeba is capable of down-regulating its receptors for phagocytosis in response to constant external peptide levels, and also increasing the number of surface receptors in response to food deprivation. On the basis of competition studies, there is evidence that Amoeba proteus has separate surface receptors for both pinocytosis and phagocytosis.
Comparative biogeography of mammals on islands

Insular faunas of terrestrial mammals and bats are examined on a worldwide basis to test the adequacy of equilibrium and historical legacy models as explanations for species-area relationships. Species numbers of bats on islands conform to predictions from equilibrium theory, whereby recurrent immigrations and extinctions influence species richness. By contrast, species numbers of terrestrial mammals on islands result from a historical legacy of very low immigration rates on oceanic islands (the faunas are colonization-limited) and by the fragmentation of once contiguous continental faunas to form relictual populations, which subsequently undergo extinctions, on landbridge islands (the faunas are extinction-limited). This explanation is supported by several lines of evidence: (1) z values (slopes of species-area curves) are lower for non-volant mammals on oceanic islands than for those on landbridge islands, but are the opposite for bats; (2) z values for non-volant mammals are lower than those for bats on oceanic islands, but are higher than those for bats on landbridge islands; and (3) landbridge island faunas are attenuated mainland faunas, whereas those on oceanic islands are ecologically incomplete. No support is found for alternative hypotheses to explain low species-area slopes for terrestrial mammals on oceanic islands.
The effects of frequent testing in an income tax course: An experiment

Abstract This study provides initial empirical evidence from an introductory income tax course of the effects of exam frequency on student learning throughout a course (original learning), on retention of material covered, and on student evaluation of the learning process. An experiment was conducted during the spring and fall semesters of 1991, in which a single instructor taught four sections of an introductory, senior-level income tax course at a large, state university. The experimental group (two sections) was given six periodic exams prior to a cumulative final; the control group (two sections) was given three periodic exams before the cumulative final. Near the end of the course, both groups evaluated the instructor and the course. Results indicate that the experimental group performed significantly better than the control group on the periodic exams given throughout the semester. Although the experimental group had a higher mean performance on the cumulative final exam, the difference was not statistically significant. The course and instructor evaluations by the experimental group were significantly better than those by the control group.
Introduction to a Threshold Concept of Primary Drives

(1956). Introduction to a Threshold Concept of Primary Drives. The Journal of General Psychology: Vol. 54, No. 2, pp. 209-229.
Cognitive behavioral treatment of trichotillomania: Review of case material

The case presenters are to be applauded for focusing much-needed attention on pediatric trichotillomania, as well as for their sensitive and carefully considered evaluation and treatment plan. Below we summarize the presenting problem and treatment strategy, provide a conceptualization of trichotillomania, and discuss its implications for assessment and treatment.
Simulating unsignalized intersection right-of-way

Right-of-way prioritization at unsignalized intersections has been largely unexplored. Drivers do not always use consistent methods to determine who has the right-of-way to enter the intersection at unsignalized intersections. Problems with right-of-way assumptions include that not all drivers engage in one set algorithm to assess intersections priority, and issues of yielding can occur when drivers arrive at an intersection simultaneously or near-simultaneously. A discrete event simulation model was built to emulate a 4-way stop-signed intersection; and different prioritization rules were instated to determine which lane has right-of way. First-in-first-out and yield-to-right prioritization methods were found to differ in terms of time spent waiting and traveling through the intersection, as well as intersection throughput for different intervals of high traffic volume. The first-in-first-out prioritization algorithm provided superior service to drivers arriving at an intersection, compared to the traditional yield-to-right approach, in both low- and high-traffic volume conditions.
Data Collection Using @Liberty

Many of us have used speadsheets like Lotus 1–2–3 to do statistical analyses, often using data collected from various sources. For example, to manage book approval plans, subject specialists at our library tabulate the approved, rejected, and firm orders, as well as keep track of encumbrances against the budget. Our collection development officer then collects the data from the subject specialists for analysis.
Lead failures: dealing with even less perfect.

h i i Although not a new issue, implantable cardiac device ysfunction has become a front-burner issue in the elecrophysiology, cardiology, and public arenas. The device ystems, particularly implantable cardioverter-defibrillator ICD) pulse generators, took center stage during early 2005 s all three U.S. ICD manufacturers detected design, mateials, or manufacturing problems in some of their devices. owever, it has long been understood by the physician ommunity that leads are much more vulnerable than the evices themselves. Until the late 1980s, when leads were placed in patients t was almost never discussed that the lead had a life span. t was obvious that the battery in the generator would eplete over time, and doctors and patients both accepted lective replacement of the device and battery. However, ith a series of pacemaker lead models it became clear that eads did fail and that there were a variety of failure mechnisms and a variety of failure indicators and that it was ery important to systematically evaluate this issue. Leads efinitely have limited service durations. For instance, polyurethane was a finicky material and if ot formulated properly, manipulated properly, and used for he appropriate purposes it could contribute to early lead ailure. Also it became clear that entrapment in the subclaius muscle between the clavicle and the first rib could cissor the lead and cause a crush situation. The site of the uture tie-down sleeve was also a problem. In this situation, ariations in suture tie-down material hardness and thickess between lead models and manufacturers and variations n physician suture techniques produced different degrees of rush on the leads and could contribute to the inner insulaion failures and conductor fractures seen with both polyrethane failures and with subclavian crush conditions.
Phosphorylation of lipids in rat primary glial cells and immortalized astrocytes (DITNC).

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, a substrate in the signal transduction pathway involving phospholipase C, is synthesized in cell membranes by phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI-4-P). Incubation with [γ-32P]adenosine triphosphate of membranes isolated from primary glial cells in culture and from an immortalized astrocyte cell line (DITNC) and subsequent separation of the lipids by high-performance thin-layer chromatography revealed a number of labeled lipid bands. Further analysis of the deacylated products by high-performance liquid chromatography indicated the presence of two PI-4-P bands and a band corresponding to lysoPIP (PIP, PI phosphate). The two PI-4-P bands were more prominent in the samples from astrocyte cell membranes than from synaptic plasma membranes and plasma membranes. Analysis of the fatty acid composition of PI by gas-liquid chromatography revealed that both 20∶3n−9 and 20∶4n−6 were present in PI of cultured cell membranes, whereas the brain membranes contained exclusively 20∶4n−6. The two PI-4-P bands in these membranes can be attributed to the presence of different molecular species of PI. Assignment of the fraction corresponding to lysoPIP was consistent with the observation that an increase in label in this lipid band occurred upon incubation of DITNC cell supernatant with lysoPI (1-stearoyl PI). This suggests that endogenous lysoPI present in the cell membranes can be phosphorylated to form lysoPIP.
Quantification of chemotherapeutic target gene mRNA expression in human breast cancer biopsies: Comparison of real-time reverse transcription-PCR vs. Relative quantification reverse transcription-PCR utilizing DNA sequencer analysis of PCR products

The solid tumor mRNA expression of genes related to the mechanism of action of certain antineoplastic agents is often predictive of clinical efficacy. We report here on the development of a rapid and practical real-time RT-PCR method to quantify genetic expression in solid tumors. The genes examined are related to the intracellular pharmacology of gemcitabine and cisplatin, two drugs that are used in the treatment of several types of advanced cancer. We evaluated target gene mRNA levels from breast tumor samples using two quantitative RT-PCR methods: 1) an improved relative RT-PCR method using fluorescence-labeled primers, automated PCR set up, and GeneScan analysis software; and 2) real-time RT-PCR with redesigned primers using an ABI 7900HT instrument, with additional postprocessing of the data to adjust for efficiency differences across the target genes. Using these methods, we quantified mRNA expression levels of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK), deoxycytidylate deaminase (dCDA), the M1 and M2 subunits of ribonucleotide reductase (RRM1, RRM2), and excision cross complementation group 1 (ERCC1) in 35 human "fresh" frozen breast cancer biopsies. While both assay methods were substantially more rapid than traditional RT-PCR, real-time RT-PCR appeared to be superior to the amplification end-point measurement in terms of precision and high throughput, even when a DNA sequencer was used to assess fluorescence-labeled PCR products. This reproducible, highly sensitive real-time RT-PCR method for the detection and quantification of the mRNAs for dCK, dCDA, RRM1, RRM2, and ERCC1 in human breast cancer biopsies appears to be more informative and less time-consuming than either classical radioisotope-dependent RT-PCR or the technique utilizing GeneScan analysis described herein. By allowing the measurement of intratumoral target gene expression, these new methods may prove useful in predicting the clinical utility of gemcitabine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy programs in patients with solid tumors.
Preparation, characterization and grain growth enhancement of DyBa2Cu4O8 through the help of HNO3 and NaNO3

Abstract The preparation of DyBa2Cu4O8 is succesful through the pretreatment of the starting materials in a nitric acid solution. High yield (>95%) of the desired product was obtained after 30 hrs sintering at 805°C under 1 atm oxygen atmosphere. The addition of NaNO3 has been proven to act as a flux to enhance the grain growth of DyBa2Cu4O8 by X-ray diffraction, resistance and magnetization measurements. The superconducting phase transition temperatures Tcs for the as prepared and flux treated DyBa2Cu4O8 are around 75K determined by magnetization measurements, while the Tc0 (zero resistance) temperatures are 60K and 67K, respectively.
Role of ion-pair equilibria in homogeneous Ziegler-Natta olefin polymerization catalysis

By means of a multinuclear NMR study of the complexes formed between AlCl3 and either Cp2TiCl2 or Cp2Ti(CH2SiMe3)Cl in methylene chloride solution, isomeric forms of the resulting 1:1 complexes have been detected. The influence of temperature, concentration, ratio of the titanocene chloride to aluminum chloride and nature of the solvent upon the 1H, 13C and 27Al NMR spectra has been investigated. The spectral changes caused by the foregoing factors give compelling evidence for a equilibrium in such Cp2Ti(R)Cl · AlCl3 complexes (R = Cl, CH2SiMe3) between contact ion pairs, Cp2TiR · Cl · AlCl3, and solvent-separated ion pairs, Cp2TiR+ AlCl4−. Upon experimental variations in temperature, concentration, solvent and ratio of RnAlCl3−n to the titanium catalyst, the polymerization activity of the catalyst system towards ethylene was markedly altered. Such changes in activity support the conclusion that the most active sites for polymerization in such systems are the solvent-separated ion pairs.
Melting of Crystalline Suspensions of Polystyrene Spheres

We have measured the melting temperatures of crystallized suspensions of polystyrene spheres as a function of concentration. By analyzing the data on the basis of a simple model we can estimate the heat of melting and the entropy change.
EARLY CEREBRAL PROTON MRS AND NEURODEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME IN INFANTS WITH CYSTIC LEUKOMALACIA

The present study tested the hypothesis that proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) predicted neurodevelopmental outcome in infants with cystic leukomalacia (CL). Nineteen infants with CL (grade 2, N = 7; grade 3, N = 7; grade 4, N = 5), graded according to the authors' classification, were examined at corrected ages of mean 1.5 +/- 2.1 SD weeks. 1H-MRS of the basal ganglia and the periventricular white matter was performed. Two infants died, 16 had an adverse neurodevelopmental outcome and one was normal at follow-up. N-acetylaspartate (NAA):choline (Cho) ratios were mean 1.12 +/- 0.19 (SD) (grade 2), mean 0.95 +/- 0.11 (SD) (grade 3), and mean 0.71 +/- 0.13 (SD) (grade 4). These differences are significant (P or = 1 year (P < 0.05). In 13 infants lactate (Lac) was found. Lac:NAA ratios showed a negative correlation with NAA:Cho ratios, but not with DQ. We conclude that a low NAA:Cho ratio predicted a poor outcome, whereas some infants developed unfavourably despite a normal NAA:Cho ratio. We speculate that partial volume effects might explain this observation.
Hypotheses implying Cesari's property (Q)

Property (Q) was originally introduced by Cesari in order to prove closure and existence theorems for optimal control problems with unbounded control spaces. Since that time, both Cesari and others have refined and modified this property in order to deal with current research problems. The present paper provides an addition to the list of hypotheses which imply Property (Q).
Population Growth and Environmental Problems in Taiwan (Formosa): A Case-study

Taiwan has the highest population density in the world today. The population growth-rate has been decreasing linearly since 1951, but the present growthrate of 2% is still much too high to lessen the population pressure. With the area of agricultural land severly limited, the agricultural sector of Taiwan can no longer absorb extra farm labourers without sacrificing the productivity of each farm labourer.In order to feed the growing population, the high productivity of a rice paddy has been maintained by applying ever-increasing amounts of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which in turn cause many pollution problems. Moreover the rapid growth of industries, which are mainly financed by outside capital, causes the expansion and congestion of the cities along with all sorts of pollution problems (air pollution of cities, water pollution of rivers, harbours, coastal waters, etc.)The heavy dependence on imported energy (70% of the total energy consumption) and on trade with Japan and the United States, puts Taiwan in a vulnerable position with regard to fluctuations in the world economy. The ever-increasing population density, and the demands of a higher per caput consumption on the limited natural resources, risk leading to economic inadequacy and ecological degradation. Such a situation could endanger our industrial civilization more widely.
Roles of NCX and PMCA in Basolateral Calcium Export Associated with Mineralization Cycles and Cold Acclimation in Crayfish

Basolateral Na + /Ca 2+ exchanger (NCX) and plasma membrane Ca 2+ ATPase (PMCA) are the primary transmembrane proteins that export calcium (Ca 2+ ) from cells. In our lab we use a nonmammalian animal model, the freshwater crayfish, to study cellular Ca 2+ regulation. Two experimental conditions are employed to effect Ca 2+ dyshomeostasis: (a) in the postmolt stage of the crustacean molting cycle increased unidirectional Ca 2+ influx associated with cuticular mineralization is accompanied by elevated basolateral Ca 2+ export (compared with intermolt Ca balance); and (h) exposure of the poikilothermic crayfish to cold acclimation (4°C) causes influx of Ca 2+ into cells, which is compensated by increased basolateral Ca 2+ export (compared with exposure to 23°C). This study compares expression of both NCX and PMCA mRNA (real-time PCR) and protein (Western) in both epithelial (kidney) and nonepithelial tissue (tail muscle) during elevated basolateral Ca 2+ export. Both experimental treatments produced increases in NCX and PMCA expression (mRNA and protein) in both tissues. Mineralization produced greater upregulation of mRNA in kidney than in tail, whereas cold acclimation yielded comparable increases in both tissues. Protein expression patterns were generally confirmatory of real-time PCR data although expression changes were less pronounced. Both experimental treatments appear to increase basolateral Ca 2+ export.
The origin of the Professional Group on Medical Electronics

A history is given of the IRE Professional Group on Medical Electronics, which was organized in 1952 to provide a means of bringing together the relatively few electronic engineers who were interested in applying their knowledge to the problems of measurment and treatment in modern medical research and practice. The programs of some technical sessions at national conventions and other conferences from 1952 to 1955 are given. (Reprint of article from IRE Proceedings, Nov. 1959). >
Dual-order snapshot spectral imaging of plasmonic nanoparticles

The development of truly scalable, multiplexed optical microarrays requires a detection platform capable of simultaneous detection of multiple signals in real-time. We present a technique we term dual-order snapshot spectroscopic imaging (DOSSI) and demonstrate that it can be effectively used to collect spectrally resolved images of a full field of view of sparsely located spots in real time. Resonant peaks of plasmonic gold nanoparticles were tracked as a function of their surrounding refractive index. Measurement uncertainty analysis indicated that the spectral resolution of DOSSI in the described configuration is approximately 0.95 nm. Further, real-time measurements by DOSSI allowed discrimination between optically identical nanoparticles that were functionalized with two homologous small molecule ligands that bound to the same protein, albeit with different affinity, based purely on their different molecular interaction kinetics-a feat not possible with slower raster-type hyperspectral imaging systems, or other dark-field optical detection systems that solely rely on end point measurements. Kinetic measurements of plasmon bands by DOSSI can be performed with a relatively simple optical system, thereby opening up the possibility of developing low-cost detectors for arrayed plasmonic diagnostics.
Scale-model tests of airfoils in simulated heavy rain

This paper discusses some of the surface water characteristics obtained in simulated heavy rain experiments conducted at the NASA Langley Research Center. The objective was to measure water film distributions and discrete film thicknesses on several two-dimensional model wings. The water film distributions on the upper surfaces are shown in photographs taken from cameras mounted above the models; the film thickness data were obtained using resistance sensors mounted flush with the upper and lower wing model surfaces. It was observed that two different clean wing models developed similar water film patterns consisting of a continuous sheet that extended to midchord and broke off in runoff streams. The water film pattern on the flapped model differed from the clean wing configuration. On the upper surface of the flapped model, the continuous sheet was thinner and a great deal of water was observed in and around the flap gaps.
A gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis of the esterifying alcohols of pumpkin seed protochlorophylls

Abstract The esterifying alcohols of protochlorophyll a and 4-vinyl-(4-desethyl)-protochlorophyll a (purified as the respective pheophytins) from pumpkin seeds were examined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results of the analysis suggested that pumpkin seed protochlorophyll a is esterified with all possible C20 isoprenoid alcohols between and including geranylgeraniol and phytol, phytol comprising 90% or more of the mixture of esterifying alcohols, and that the 4-vinyl-(4-desethyl)-protochlorophyll a is esterified with farnesol and all possible C20 isoprenoid alcohols between and including geranylgeranoid and phytanol, phytol comprising 50% or more of the mixture of esterifying alcohols. The 4-vinyl-(4-desethyl)-protochlorophyll a from a sample of older mature pumpkin seeds was found to be richer in esterifying alcohols corresponding to isoprenoid precursors of phytol then was the 4-vinyl-(4-desethyl)-protochlorophyll a from a sample of younger mature seeds. Other isoprenoid alcohols may have been present in very minor quantities in the mixtures of esterifying alcohols from the pumpkin seed protochlorophylls but were not looked for in this study. These results are discussed in terms of a biosynthetic accumulation of 4-vinyl-(4-desethyl)-protochlorophyll a in pumpkin inner seed-coat tissue.
Reproduction in a simultaneous hermaphroditic shrimp, Lysmata wurdemanni: any two will do?

The caridean shrimp Lysmata wurdemanni (Gibbes) displays protandric simultaneous hermaphroditism with out-crossing, but not all males become simultaneous hermaphrodites (euhermaphrodites). In this laboratory study, we attempted to determine why some shrimp remain males. In our experiment, we grew L. wurdemanni from postlarvae to adults in several group sizes and observed their reproductive function. We found that all shrimp reared in isolation become euhermaphrodites. When cultured in a group, the proportion of shrimp remaining male decreased with increasing group size. Except for those that mated within a day, inter-molt euhermaphrodite-phase shrimp (with or without embryos) and inter-molt male-phase shrimp fertilized eggs successfully. On the other hand, euhermaphrodite shrimp can only mate as females and have their eggs fertilized during a narrow post-molt window (less than 12 h) in each molt cycle (10 days). The fertilization rate of male–euhermaphrodite pairs was similar to that of euhermaphrodite–euhermaphrodite pairs. There are at least two non-exclusive explanations for the persistence of male shrimp in a group. In certain group compositions, an individual may gain more reproductive fitness as a large male with multiple mating partners than as a small female with low clutch size. Alternatively, the presence of male-phase individuals, with variable molt-cycle duration (5–8 days), may be necessary to ensure mating. This study is the first direct experimental demonstration of social control of sex change in the decapod crustaceans.
Isomer ratio measurements for 91Mo, 137Ce and 141Nd produced by (γ, n) and (γ, 3n) reactions

Abstract Isomer ratios for the reactions A+1Z(γ, n)AZ and A+3 Z(γ, 3n) A Z, ( A Z = 91 Mo , 137 Ce and 141 Rm ) have been deduced from residual radioactivity measurements of separated targets irradiated with 70 MeV bremsstrahlung. More uniform production of the AZ isomeric pair states was observed by the (γ, 3n) reaction than by the (γ, n) reaction. This behavior is discussed in terms of the nuclear photoabsorption process and the neutron emission modes of the compound nucleus.
Heterogeneity in Skin Treated with Low-Frequency Ultrasound

Recent experimental evidence using colored, fluorescent permeants suggests that skin treated with low-frequency sonophoresis (LFS) is perturbed in a heterogeneous manner. Macroscopic and microscopic visualization studies, topical penetration studies, transdermal permeability studies, and skin electrical resistivity measurements have shown that discrete domains, referred to as localized transport regions (LTRs), which are formed during LFS treatment of the skin, possess greatly reduced barrier properties, and therefore exhibit increased permeant skin penetration, compared to the surrounding regions of LFS-treated skin. The transformation of LTR formation from a heterogeneous to a homogeneous phenomenon has the potential benefit of increasing the maximum level of transdermal permeability or of reducing the area of skin required to deliver a desired dose of drug transdermally. Future studies, aimed at elucidating both the mechanisms of LTR formation and the limits of nondamaging formation of LTRs in the skin, are required to incorporate these proposed improvements to enhance the efficacy and practical utility of low-frequency sonophoresis.
National Loyalties and Amnesty: A Legal and Social Psychological Analysis

This essay discusses some of the legal doctrines and social psychological concepts relevant to amnesty. From statutes, precedents, and case law, it is argued that national loyalty is an important underlying policy consideration in amnesty. National loyalty can be operationalized in terms of attitudinal measures of national commitment. Questions of policy and research are raised concerning how different types of national commitment held by different war resisters might predispose their acceptance or rejection of an amnesty proposal.
Phenoxybenzamine is more potent in inactivating α1- than α2-adrenergic receptor binding sites

The effects of phenoxybenzamine on alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptor binding sites were examined directly using radioligand binding assays of the antagonist drugs [125I]BE 2254 and [3H]rauwolscine, respectively, in homogenates of rat cerebral cortex. Treatment with phenoxybenzamine caused an irreversible, dose-dependent decrease in the density of both alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptors. Phenoxybenzamine was approximately 250-fold more potent at decreasing alpha 1-adrenergic receptor density than it was at decreasing alpha 2-adrenergic receptor density.
A narrative approach to the ethical dilemmas of surrogate decision making

Surrogate decisions for incapacitated patients are challenging. Surrogates may be unreliable in their prediction of patient preferences. The responsibilities of the surrogate decision maker may result in psychological harm and moral distress. The substituted judgment standard of surrogate responsibility has been questioned on both philosophical and practical grounds. This article explores the ethical challenges of the surrogate decision maker and offers a defense of the surrogate's moral standing. The bioethical principle of respect for autonomy is contrasted with the concept of authenticity. A medical case is used to focus attention on the complexities of the surrogate's role. The case discussion seeks to demonstrate how attention to narrative information, the concept of authenticity, as well as the principles of bioethics, can help support the surrogate and establish a foundation for ethical consensus.
Diamond Turned Deformable Mirror

A deformable annular flat mirror was developed for performing adaptive corrections of low temporal frequency aberrations in cylindrical lasers. Construction of the mirror is described, including the aluminum. faceplate, 4ifferential ballscrew actuators, and servomotor drivers. The annular deformable mirror aperture, having two free edges, presents unique problems for optical finishing due to edge roll-off as well as actuator print-through. These problems were successfully overcome by diamond turning the deformable mirror rather than employing conventional grinding and polishing techniques. It is believed that this is the first successful demonstration of diamond. turning a deformable mirror structure to optical tolerances.
Subunit stoichiometry of a mammalian K+ channel determined by construction of multimeric cDNAs

The subunit stoichiometry of the mammalian K+ channel KV1.1 (RCK1) was examined by linking together the coding sequences of 2-5 K+ channel subunits in a single open reading frame and tagging the expression of individual subunits with a mutation (Y379K or Y379R) that altered the sensitivity of the channel to block by external tetraethylammonium ion. Two lines of evidence argue that these constructs lead to K+ channel expression only through the formation of functional tetramers. First, currents expressed by tetrameric constructs containing a single mutant subunit have a sensitivity to tetraethylammonium that is well fitted by a single site binding isotherm. Second, a mutant subunit (Y379K) that expresses only as part of a heteromultimer contributes to the expression of functional channels when coexpressed with a trimeric construct but not a tetrameric construct.
Increased hematopoiesis in long-term bone marrow cultures and reduced irradiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in Von Willebrand factor homologous deletion recombinant mice.

AIM We investigated whether homologous recombinant deletion of the endothelial cell-specific protein Von Willebrand factor (vWF) affected hematopoiesis in long-term bone marrow cultures, and irradiation induction of pulmonary fibrosis/organizing alveolitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We established long-term bone marrow cultures from vWF(-/-) (C57BL/6 background) and vWF(+/+) littermate mice. Non-adherent cells removed weekly were tested for formation of multi-lineage hematopoietic stem cells forming colonies at 7 and 14 days in secondary semi-solid medium cultures. Irradiation fibrosis in the lungs of 20-Gy thoracic irradiated mice was quantitated and scored. RESULTS Hematopoiesis was increased over 20 weeks in vWF(-/-) compared to vWF(+/+) cultures in production of non-adherent cells, and cells forming colonies at 7 or 14 days in secondary semi-solid medium culture. The irradiated lungs showed no increased fibrosis. CONCLUSION Absence of vWF increases hematopoiesis in long-term bone marrow cultures and has a protective effect in irradiated lungs.
Nonsuppressible Insulin-Like Activity (NSILA).II. Regulation of Serum Concentrations by Growth Hormone and Insulin*

By employing a new competitive proteinbindingassay described in the previous paper, serum levels of the somatomedin designated as nonsuppressible insulin-like activity (NSILA) have been measured in normal individuals and patients with disorders of GH secretion, both under basal and altered conditions of carbohydrate metabolism. In addition, serum NSILA levels have been determined in several species of laboratory animals (mouse, rat, rabbit, dog, and sheep). Evidence that serum NSILA is GH-dependent is provided by the finding that the mean (± SEM) level in 11 acromegalics (1136 ± 60/μU/ml) is significantly higher (P < 0.001) and the mean level in 8 hypopituitary patients (408 ± 30 μU/ml) is significantly lower (P < 0.001) than that in 14 normal subjects (836 ± 21 μU/ml).Also, after the administration of human GH to three hypopituitary patients, the mean NSILA level rose from a baseline of 409 ± 108 /μU/ml to 628 ± 48 μU/ml. Serum NSILA levels were not significantly changed either by insulin-induced hypogly...
A comparative study of fungicidal activities of voriconazole and amphotericin B against hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus

Objectives: To study the in vitro fungicidal activity of voriconazole against hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus and compare the results with those obtained for the known fungicidal drug amphotericin B. Methods: A. fumigatus mycelia were grown on Sabouraud dextrose agar and in peptone yeast extract glucose broth until the cultures reached a mid-logarithmic growth phase. The fungicidal activities of voriconazole and amphotericin B against actively growing hyphae of A. fumigatus were examined by a kill-curve experiment and a fungal cell viability test. For the kill-curve study, the drug-treated hyphae were washed, homogenized and resuspended in 1mL of sterile water, diluted 10–1000 fold and aliquots of 0.1mL were spread on Sabouraud dextrose agar and allowed to grow for 48h at 358C. The cfu were determined and plotted against drug concentrations for each time of exposure to obtain the kill curve. The viability of drug-treated A. fumigatus hyphae was determined by their ability to reduce tetrazolium compound 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide. Results: Exposure of A. fumigatus hyphae to several concentrations (1–16mg/L) of voriconazole or amphotericin B for various time intervals killed the hyphae in a time- and drug concentration-dependent manner. Voriconazole at 1mg/L killed >95% of the hyphae grown on Sabouraud dextrose agar after 48h of exposure, whereas amphotericin B at the same concentration killed 70% of the hyphae after exposure for the same duration. Approximately 99% killing of hyphae grown in peptone yeast extract glucose broth was obtained for voriconazole at 1mg/L after 48h of exposure, whereas amphotericin B at 1mg/L yielded 82% killing after 48h. The fungal cell viability test by tetrazolium reduction assay showed that mycelia exposed to >_1mg/L (Sabouraud dextrose agar blocks) and >_2mg/L (broth cultures) of voriconazole for 48h completely failed to reduce 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl2H-tetrazolium bromide. At low concentrations (1–2mg/L) amphotericin B had no detectable effect on 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide reduction by drug-treated mycelia, whereas mycelia treated with 16mg/L for 48h showed 50% inhibition of 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide reduction compared with the control. Conclusions: Voriconazole possesses excellent fungicidal activity against actively growing hyphae of A. fumigatus. A comparison of results with those obtained for the known fungicidal drug amphotericin B shows that, in peptone yeast extract glucose broth, voriconazole has superior fungicidal activity against A. fumigatus hyphae compared with that of amphotericin B.
Coarse-grain parallel genetic algorithms: categorization and new approach

This paper describes a number of different coarse-grain GA's, including various migration strategies and connectivity schemes to address the premature convergence problem. These approaches are evaluated on a graph partitioning problem. Our experiments showed, first, that the sequential GA's used are not as effective as parallel GA's for this graph partition problem. Second, for coarse-grain GA's, the results indicate that using a large number of nodes and exchanging individuals asynchronously among them is very effective. Third, GA's that exchange solutions based on population similarity instead of a fixed connection topology get better results without any degradation in speed. Finally, we propose a new coarse-grained GA architecture, the Injection Island GA (iiGA). The preliminary results of iiGA's show them to be a promising new approach to coarse-grain GA's. >
Anchored constant modulus algorithm (ACMA) for blind equalization

Blind equalization is a technique of adapting an equalizer without the need of a training sequence. The constant modulus algorithm (CMA) is one of the first known blind equalization algorithms. The cost function of the CMA exhibits local minima, which are the primary cause of the ill-convergence of the CMA. Anchoring the CMA improves the performance of the CMA in terms of ill-convergence. This technique is used with the linear and the decision feedback equalizers. It is shown that the adaptive equalizer will always remove intersymbol interference (ISI) as long as the channel gain exceeds a certain critical value. >
Error correcting run-length limited codes for magnetic recording

A new method for the construction of single error-correcting run-length limited (RLL) modulation codes is proposed. This method appears superior to previously published methods, especially for smaller block lengths.
ABC transporters required for endocytosis and endosomal pH regulation in Dictyostelium.

In Dictyostelium, the RtoA protein links both initial cell-type choice and physiological state to cell-cycle phase. rtoA– cells (containing a disruption of the rtoA gene) generally do not develop past the mound stage, and have an abnormal ratio of prestalk and prespore cells. RtoA is also involved in fusion of endocytic/exocytic vesicles. Cells lacking RtoA, although having a normal endocytosis rate, have a decreased exocytosis rate and endosomes with abnormally low pHs. RtoA levels vary during the cell cycle, causing a cell-cycle-dependent modulation of parameters such as cytosolic pH (Brazill et al., 2000). To uncover other genes involved in the RtoA-mediated differentiation, we identified genetic suppressors of rtoA. One of these suppressors disrupted two genes, mdrA1 and mdrA2, a tandem duplication encoding two members of the ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily. Disruption of mdrA1/mdrA2 results in release from the developmental block and suppression of the defect in initial cell type choice caused by loss of the rtoA gene. However, this is not accomplished by re-establishing the link between cell type choice and cell cycle phase. MdrA1 protein is localized to the endosome. mdrA1–/mdrA2– cells (containing a disruption of these genes) have an endocytosis rate roughly 70% that of wild-type or rtoA– cells, whereas mdrA1–/mdrA2–/rtoA– cells have an endocytosis rate roughly 20% that of wild-type. The exocytosis rates of mdrA1–/mdrA2– and mdrA1–/mdrA2–/rtoA– are roughly that of wild-type. mdrA1–/mdrA2– endosomes have an unusually high pH, whereas mdrA1–/mdrA2–/rtoA– endosomes have an almost normal pH. The ability of mdrA1/mdrA2 disruption to rescue the cell-type proportion, developmental defects, and endosomal pH defects caused by rtoA disruption, and the ability of rtoA disruption to exacerbate the endocytosis defects caused by mdrA1/mdrA2 disruption, suggest a genetic interaction between rtoA, mdrA1 and mdrA2.
Developing cystic fibrosis lung transplant referral criteria using predictors of 2-year mortality

The first objective of our study was to develop a model identifying the best clinical predictors of 2-year mortality among patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), to assist in selection of appropriate candidates for lung transplantation. Using multivariate logistic regression, we found that age, height, FEV1, respiratory microbiology, number of hospitalizations for pulmonary exacerbations, and number of home intravenous antibiotic courses were all significant predictors of 2-year mortality among 14,572 patients in the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation National Patient Registry who were 6 years of age or older in 1996. The second objective was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of our model when used to guide referral for lung transplant with that of the widely used criterion of an FEV1 of less than 30% predicted. Surprisingly, this well-fitting model derived from the largest collection of data available on patients with CF provided no better diagnostic accuracy than the simpler FEV1 criterion. Both had high negative...
HERITABLE ADAPTATION AND FITNESS COSTS IN KILLIFISH (FUNDULUS HETEROCLITUS) INHABITING A POLLUTED ESTUARY

Adaptation to contaminants in the environment has been studied extensively in microbes, insects, and plants, and increasing evidence suggests that certain vertebrate populations as well are evolving in response to pollution. Here, we show that F1 and F2 laboratory-raised offspring of killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus, also known as mummichog) from a highly contaminated site on the Elizabeth River (Virginia, USA) are more resistant to the toxicity of Elizabeth River sediments than are offspring of reference site killifish. This resistance is more marked in the F1 than in the F2 generation, but it remains significant in the F2 generation, indicating that the resistant phenotype in the feral Elizabeth River killifish is based on both genetic and nongenetic mechanisms. In addition, both the F1 and F2 generation offspring of the Elizabeth River killifish are more susceptible to other stressors, both anthropogenic (photoenhanced toxicity) and natural (hypoxia), suggesting that the changes that have conferred resistance to the toxicity of the Elizabeth River sediments carry a cost of reduced fitness in other contexts. Corresponding Editor: J. E. McDowell.