cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Beauty, Biological Weapons, and Botox

As Donald Kennedy elegantly states in his editorial “Beauty and the beast” (1 March, p. [1601][1]), “Who would have imagined a world in which terror weapons are employed as beauty aids?” He is right; who would have ever imagined a world in which the poison botulinum toxin would effectively address problems such as back pain, tension headaches, migraine headaches, anal fissures, hyperhidrosis, fibromyalgia, and the neuralgia that lingers after shingles? Could anyone have envisioned that this agent would offer relief to individuals with cerebral palsy or help with the symptomatic treatment of multiple sclerosis? I had never anticipated a time when my “in office” trainees would include neurologists and when consultations with pain specialists would occur regularly. Suddenly I find myself, a dermatologist, conducting clinical studies with neurologists to develop uses of this terrible toxin. I enjoy making people look better. Is there value in what I do? You might read Survival of the Prettiest: The Science of Beauty ([1][2]) or even The Adonis Complex: The Secret Crisis of Male Body Obsession ([2][3]). Or I could introduce you to patients of mine with HIV who are on highly active antiretroviral therapy and have lost all their facial fat and, therefore, refuse to leave the house, or maybe the Parkinson's patients, women in particular, who have such severe hair loss from their medication that they stop taking it. Yet, many of the uses I have found for botulinum toxin came from my initial experience with it in cosmesis. In the field of aesthetic medicine, I am not convinced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the best record in dealing with these agents. I remember all too well when the FDA took aim at breast implants and created a level of medical hysteria that, to this day, remains unsurpassed. Although Saddam Hussein may have barrels of botulinum toxin, it would be a poor choice for a biological weapon. The toxin-liberating bacteria are very unlikely to work through inhalation, because they are anaerobes and will not germinate in the air. Furthermore, although their mode of entrance to the body can be through food, the mortality rate would only be 20%. 1. [↵][4]1. N. Etcoff , Survival of the Prettiest: The Science of Beauty (Doubleday, New York, 1999). 2. [↵][5]1. H. G. Pope Jr., 2. K. A. Phillips, 3. R. Olivardia , The Adonis Complex: The Secret Crisis of Male Body Obsession (Simon and Schuster, New York, 2000). [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.295.5560.1601 [2]: #ref-1 [3]: #ref-2 [4]: #xref-ref-1-1 "View reference 1 in text" [5]: #xref-ref-2-1 "View reference 2 in text"
A genetically encoded photocaged amino acid

We have developed a second orthogonal tRNA/synthetase pair for use in yeast based on the Escherichia coli tRNALeu/leucyl tRNA-synthetase pair. Using a novel genetic selection, we have identified a series of synthetase mutants that selectively charge the amber suppresor tRNA with the C8 amino acid, alpha-aminocaprylic acid, and the photocaged amino acid, o-nitrobenzyl cysteine, allowing them to be inserted into proteins in yeast in response to the amber nonsense codon, TAG.
Chronic-alcohol-abuse-induced oxidative stress in the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Chronic alcohol ingestion increases the risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe form of acute lung injury, characterized by alveolar epithelial and endothelial barrier disruption and intense inflammation. Alcohol abuse is also associated with a higher incidence of sepsis or pneumonia resulting in a higher rate of admittance to intensive care, longer inpatient stays, higher healthcare costs, and a 2–4 times greater mortality rate. Chronic alcohol ingestion induced severe oxidative stress associated with increased ROS generation, depletion of the critical antioxidant glutathione (GSH), and oxidation of the thiol/disulfide redox potential in the alveolar epithelial lining fluid and exhaled breath condensate. Across intracellular and extracellular GSH pools in alveolar type II cells and alveolar macrophages, chronic alcohol ingestion consistently induced a 40–60 mV oxidation of GSH/GSSG suggesting that the redox potentials of different alveolar GSH pools are in equilibrium. Alcohol-induced GSH depletion or oxidation was associated with impaired functions of alveolar type II cells and alveolar macrophages but could be reversed by restoring GSH pools in the alveolar lining fluid. The aims of this paper are to address the mechanisms for alcohol-induced GSH depletion and oxidation and the subsequent effects in alveolar barrier integrity, modulation of the immune response, and apoptosis.
Significance of the fluid-blood interface in intracranial hematomas in anticoagulated patients.

Abstract Six patients receiving anticoagulant medication who had laboratory evidence of impaired hemostasis as manifested by laboratory parameters exceeding the therapeutic range developed intracranial hemorrhages. None of these patients had a history of preceding trauma. None of the 6 anticoagulated had CNS symptoms prior to inititation of anticoagulant medication. Within the intracranial hemorrhage there was a fluid-blood interface in these 6 patients; this finding was seen only in hemorrhages in anticoagulated patients. In 3 cases the fluid-blood interface changed to a homogeneous hyperdense lesion when adequate hemostasis was achieved. In one case there were multiple hemorrhages and in the other there was a solitary intracerebral hemorrhage.
Temperature and Oxygen Effects on 14C-Photosynthate Unloading and Accumulation in Developing Soybean Seeds

The environmental sensitivity of the processes associated with the import of photosynthate by developing soybean seeds was investigated within intact fruit and with excised, immature embryos. Intact pods of field-grown ( Glycine max [L.] Merr.) Amsoy 71 soybeans were subjected to localized regimes of 0, 21, or 100% O 2 and 15, 25, or 35°C during pulsechase translocation experiments and, 2.5 hours later, the uptake and distribution of 14 C-photosynthate among dissected fruit tissues determined. In other experiments, excised embryos were incubated in [ 14 C]sucrose solutions under various experimental conditions to separate the effects of these treatments on accumulation by the embryos from those which may operate on phloem unloading in the maternal seedcoat. Import of 14 C-photosynthate by intact soybean fruit was both temperature- and O 2 -dependent. This dependency was shown to occur only within the seeds; import by the pod walls was essentially insensitive to fruit temperature or O 2 treatments. The embryos of anaerobic fruit were completely unlabeled, regardless of fruit temperature. But under anaerobic in vitro incubation conditions, uptake of [ 14 C]sucrose in excised embryos was only 30% less than that in aerobic in vitro conditions. The data suggest that, within intact fruit, anoxia prevented sucrose efflux from the seed coat phloem and any subsequent uptake by the embryo. The demonstrated energy dependence of phloem unloading may reflect requirements for membrane integrity or energy metabolism in the companion cell-sieve element complex, consistent with a facilitated unloading process. Collectively, these data characterize the environmental sensitivity of photosynthate import in developing soybean fruit. They imply that environmental regulation of import may occur at both the embryo level and at the phloem terminals within the seed coat.
Frostbite: Prevention and Initial Management

Abstract Zafren, Ken. Frostbite: Prevention and initial management. High Alt. Med. Biol. 14:9–12, 2013.—Frostbite is a local freezing injury that can cause tissue loss. Historically, it has been a disease of wars, but it is a hazard for anyone who ventures outdoors in cold weather. Frozen tissue is damaged both during freezing and rewarming. Frozen tissue is numb. Rewarming causes hyperemia and is often painful. Blisters and edema develop after rewarming. Hard eschar may form with healthy tissue deep to the eschar. Frostbite can be classified as superficial, without permanent tissue loss, or deep, with varying degrees of permanent tissue loss, often less than appearances suggest. It can be difficult to predict the amount of tissue loss at the time of presentation and early in the subsequent course. Prevention is better than treatment. It may be advisable not to rewarm frozen extremities in the field, but spontaneous thawing is often unavoidable. Extremities that have thawed should be protected from refree...
Limitations and optimal conditions for photoelectron—photoion coincidence spectroscopy

The factors limiting the signal/noise ratio and resolution attainable in photoelectron—photoion coincidence spectroscopy are discussed. It is found that the SN ratio is fundamentally interrelated with the electron energy resolution, although for most applications, the SN is virtually independent of mass resolution. At the current state of development, attainable SN and electron energy resolution are far below the capabilities of the technique, which could be approached through the use of high transmission energy analyzers, limitation of photon beam width and multichannel electron energy and mass analysis.
Parameters regulating interfacial and mechanical properties of short glass fiber reinforced polypropylene

The performance of thermoplastic composites is known to depend on the intrinsic properties of the two composite components, the quality of the fiber-matrix interface, and the crystalline properties of their matrix. The objective of this work is to characterize the effect of the addition of modified polypropylene (PP) and silane coupling agent on the mechanical and interfacial properties of short fiber reinforced PP composites. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), single fiber composite fragmentation tests (SFC), and mechanical testing are used to understand the different parameters regulating the interfacial properties of composites. No influence of the modified PP on the level of crystallinity is observed. Some differences in the size of the spherulites are observed for acrylic acid grafted PP (PP-g-AA). Those samples also show lower mechanical properties in spite of good interfacial interactions. Maleic anhydride grafted PP (PP-g-MAh) leads to better mechanical performances than PP-g-AA. A high MAh content PP-g-MAh grade with low viscosity is the best polymeric additive used in the present work.
Canopy Microenvironments and Applied Bacteria Population Dynamics in Shaded Tall Fescue

Shading of the turfgrass canopy is assumed to support increased microbial activity and therefore more potential disease problems. The goal of this research was to determine how shading affects microenvironmental conditions, and how these conditions affect phylloplane colonization by applied bacterial strains. Shade cloth was suspended over tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) turf in field plots and environmental parameters were measured in shaded and full sun areas. Shading increased leaf wetness duration and relative humidity (RH), but decreased the average and range of canopy air and foliage temperatures. Three species of bacteria (Bacillus megaterium, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Enterobacter cloacae) were applied to all plots. Populations of B. megaterium were the lowest of the three species in both study years. Data showed that measurable differences in microclimate occur as a result of shading and that bacterial colonization was generally favored by shading. The lack of consistency between the two assay methods and among bacterial species regarding the effects of shading suggests that differences in response to microclimate conditions may exist among bacterial species or strains. Results indicate that shading should be considered when screening biological control agents for disease management.
A Mets Motif Peptide Found in Copper Transport Proteins Selectively Binds Cu(I) with Methionine-Only Coordination

Mets motifs, which refer to methionine-rich sequences found in the high-affinity copper transporter Ctr1, also appear in other proteins involved in copper trafficking and homeostasis, including other Ctrs as well as Pco and Cop proteins isolated from copper-resistant bacteria. To understand the coordination chemistry utilized by these proteins, we studied the copper binding properties of a peptide labeled Mets7-PcoC with the sequence Met-Thr-Gly-Met-Lys-Gly-Met-Ser. By comparing this sequence to a series of mutants containing noncoordinating norleucine in place of methionine, we confirm that all three methionine residues are involved in a thioether-only binding site that is selective for Cu(I). Two independent methods, one based on mass spectrometry and one based on rate differences for the copper-catalyzed oxidation of ascorbic acid, provide an effective KD of ∼2.5 μM at pH 4.5 for the 1:1 complex of Mets7-PcoC with Cu(I). These results establish that a relatively simple peptide containing an MX2MX2M mot...
Ultrasonic treatment of tumors: I. Absence of metastases following treatment of a hamster fibrosarcoma.

Abstract The rate of metastasis has been compared for a hamster fibrosarcoma line treated either with ultrasound or by surgical excision. Continuous wave, 5 MHz ultrasound at 3 W/cm 2 for 6–8 min brought tumor temperatures to 60–70°C. The animals were observed over a period of 12 weeks. The ultrasound treatment effectively eradicated the local tumor. There was no indication of induction of metastasis by the treatment.
Measurement of the g Factor of Free, High-Energy Electrons

100-kev electrons in 0.1-\ensuremath{\mu}sec bunches are sent into a gold foil. The part of the electron bunch which is scattered at right angles, and which, consequently, is partially polarized, is trapped in a magnetic field and held for a measured length of time (up to 300 \ensuremath{\mu}sec). The bunch is then released from the trap and allowed to strike a second gold foil. Counters receive the electrons scattered at plus and minus approximately 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. The cycle is repeated 1000 times per sec. The asymmetry in intensity in the two directions depends upon the final direction of polarization. A plot of the intensity asymmetry vs trapping duration is a cosine curve, whose frequency is the difference between the orbital frequency and the spin precession frequency. This is related to the $g$ factor as follows: $\frac{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{D}{m}_{0}c}{\mathrm{Be}}=a$, where $g$ is $2(1+a)$. Thus the "anomaly," $a$, is measured directly. The determination of $B$ presents some difficulty because the field must be slightly nonuniform in order to trap the electrons. The spatial variation in $B$ from the center of the trap to the ends is only 0.3%, and the time average of $B$ which applies to the trapped electrons is evaluated to 0.1%. Measurements made at other electron energies, down to 50 kev, showed a slight dependence of $a$ upon energy. The dependence is attributed to electrostatic charges on the surfaces in the trapping region. The final standard error quoted is, however, purposely made large enough so that the variation of $a$ with energy is bracketted. The result is $a=0.0011609\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0000024$.
Robert F. Kennedy at stellenbosch university

The circumstances surrounding Robert Kennedy's appearance at Stellenbosch University in South Africa in 1966 pose an interesting opportunity for a rhetorical critique. With the majority of the Stellenbosch students strong supporters of the governmental policy of apartheid, this speaking engagement took place in a highly charged emotional atmosphere. This article discusses the details of the rhetorical situation and illustrates how Kennedy utilized the numerous constraints imposed upon him as assets in constructing his epideictic speech to elicit desired responses from an ideologically hostile audience. In particular, it examines Kennedy's use of the question‐and‐answer session which followed the speech as a means of reinforcing his arguments and promulgating his value hierarchy.
Test–Retest Reliability of Self-Reported Mammography in Women Veterans

Abstract Background. Mammography self-report is used to monitor screening and evaluate intervention trends; however, few studies have examined reliability. Methods. Reliability of self-reported lifetime number of mammograms, most recent mammogram date, and predictors of reliability were assessed using data from Project H.O.M.E. The study population was 2494 women 52 years and over, listed in the U.S. National Registry of Women Veterans, with no history of breast cancer, who completed both baseline (2000–2002) and year 1 (2002–2003) surveys. Results. Reliability of lifetime number of mammograms was 60.9% for exact consistency and 79.9% for consistency within one mammogram. Thirty-five percent was exactly consistent in reporting mammogram date; 55.6% was consistent within 3 months. Completing both surveys by mail and reporting fewer lifetime mammograms at baseline were positively associated with consistency of reporting lifetime number. White race/ethnicity, having a Bachelor's degree, reporting a healthcare provider's recommendation for a mammogram, having a screening mammogram, completing both surveys by mail, and being in the maintenance or action stages of change were associated with consistency in reporting date. Conclusions. Reliability varies with the measure of self-reported mammography. Likewise, predictors show different patterns of association with different definitions. Our findings call attention to the need for explicit definitions and measures of mammography use.
Combining Multiple Forms Of Visual Information To Specify Contact Relations In Spatial Layout

An expert system, called Layout2, has been described, which models a subset of available visual information for spatial layout. The system is used to examine detailed interactions between multiple, partially redundant forms of information in an environment-centered geometrical model of an environment obeying certain rather general constraints. This paper discusses the extension of Layout2 to include generalized contact relations between surfaces. In an environment-centered model, the representation of viewer-centered distance is replaced by the representation of environmental location. This location information is propagated through the representation of the environment by a network of contact relations between contiguous surfaces. Perspective information interacts with other forms of information to specify these contact relations. The experimental study of human perception of contact relations in extended spatial layouts is also discussed. Differences between human results and Layout2 results reveal limitations in the human ability to register available information; they also point to the existence of certain forms of information not yet formalized in Layout2.
Multi-perspective analysis and spatiotemporal mapping of air pollution monitoring data.

Space-time data analysis and assimilation techniques in atmospheric sciences typically consider input from monitoring measurements. The input is often processed in a manner that acknowledges charac...
Notching and anterior beveling on fossil horse incisors: Indicators of domestication?

One of the lines of evidence cited for possible late Pleistocene human control of horses has been the presence of notching and anterior beveling on horse incisor teeth recovered from upper and middle Paleolithic sites in Europe. Similar forms of wear have been found on the incisor teeth of wild horses from early and middle Pleistocene deposits in North America. Notching appears partly due to malocclusion and chipping. The causes of beveling are less certain but may involve the eating of bark. Therefore, the presence of notching and anterior beveling on horse incisor teeth may not be a reliable indicator of human control.
Correlation of Pennsylvanian-Permian of Glass Mountains and Delaware Mountains

The formations of the Glass Mountains are correlated, not only with those of the Delaware sandstones, but also with those of the Shafter, Texas, region and the Sierra Diablo and the Hueco Mountains.
A greener enantioselective synthesis of the antiviral agent North-methanocarbathymidine (N-MCT) from 2-deoxy-d-ribose.

Abstract An enantioselective synthesis of suitably protected (1R,2S,4S,5S)-4-amino-1-(hydroxymethyl)bicyclo[3.1.0]hexan-2-ol, a key starting material for the synthesis of conformationally locked carbocyclic nucleosides, including the antiviral active North-methanocarbathymidine, is reported. Starting from 2-deoxyribose the target Boc-protected amine was prepared in 33% overall yield under conditions that are ecologically friendlier than previous methods.
Cities and powerful knowledge: An editorial essay on accepted wisdom and global urban theory [Part I]

Abstract This editorial essay is the first of two designed to lay out a firm intellectual foundation for the material that will be published in future editions of CRoC. This first part is necessarily critical, pointing out that there is a stifling discourse of normative thinking that imposes a rigid framework of what is ‘good’ and what is ‘evil’ in our cities, to use Schorske’s terms. Lacking in understanding of context and place, attempting to impose a rigid template of density and planning practice, this critical framework inhibits our ability to think coherently and creatively about the future—which is what Angel describes as a “planet of cities”.
Correlates of Change in Attitudes toward Mental Illness among Vocational Nursing Students

Suntma7y.-Those 16 students who had completed the two psychology courses (a) tended to complete the practicum and (b) reported being more influenced by experiential rather than cognitive components of the practicum. In view of the previously reported findings of favorable attitude change following a psychiatric practicum for the scudents who had completed the two psychology courses, over-all results presented in both reports (a)' confirm previous studies which sucgest the effectiveness of a psychiatric practicum in changing nursing students' anitudes toward mental illness and (b) empirically support Rabkin's 1977 statement that academic instruction seems maximally effective in combination with factors such as personal experience with mental patients, etc. (as reported by the student nurses) in changing attitudes toward mental illness. Literature on change in attitudes toward mental illness, as well as on selected correlates of the attitudes, is inconclusive. Rabkin's (1977) review indicates that such change is probably related to variables such as instructor's attitudes, students' ability, contact with patients, etc., rather than academic instruction in psychology. Subsequent studies in this area indicate favorable attitude change associated with brief didactic seminars (Morrison & Teta, 1977, 1978, 1980) and psychiatric training (Creech, 1977). The few studies on correlates of attitudes toward mental illness indicate no consistent relationship nor appreciable variance associated with sex, age, or education (Brockman & D'Arcy, 1978; Kahn, 1976). Level of nurses' training (Morrison, Yablonovitz, Harris, & Nevid, 1976) and courses in psychology (Schultz, Harker, & Gardner, 1977) have also been related to attitudes toward mental illness. In an effort to clarify the relationship between psychology courses and attitude change among nursing students after a psychiatric practicum, the present author (Napoletano, 1981) compared attitude change for students who had completed two psychology courses with students who had not. Favorable change in one (Interpersonal Etiology) of eight attitudes was found for the former group, indicating a stronger belief that unhealthy interpersonal relationships early in life can lead to mental illness. It was the purpose of this paper to report additional findings from that study regarding: (1) personological correlates of the attitudes and (2) students' evaluation of the effectiveness of selected cognitive and experiential components of the practicum which probably contributed to their change of attitude.
A Poset which is Shellable but not Lexicographically Shellable

We present a simple example of a regular CW complex which is not shellable (in a sense defined by Bjorner) but whose barycentric subdivision is shellable. Its poset of faces is shellable but not lexicographically shellable.
Correlation of 2-methoxyestradiol levels in cord blood and complications of prematurity.

2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2) is a potent antiangiogenic molecule that inhibits the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and, consequently, of VEGF and other HIF-1α target genes. Although 2ME2 is elevated during pregnancy in maternal serum, its presence in fetal fluids and its impact in neonatal health are unknown. In this study, we 1) described normal levels of 2ME2 in maternal blood, cord blood, breast milk, and amniotic fluid, and 2) compared a composite measure of perinatal outcome between infants born with high and low levels of 2ME2. We found that 2ME2 was significantly decreased in all fluids compared with prepartum maternal serum. After stratifying babies by 2ME2 exposure levels, we observed no differences in the vulnerability to impaired lung development or to complications involving aberrant angiogenesis or vascular leak, such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH), and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). In summary, fetal 2ME2 concentrations do not appear to affect neonatal outcome.
Package Effects Caused by Leaky Modes at Higher Frequencies in Microwave Integrated Circuits

When a microwave integrated circuit is placed in a package, the leakage properties of the transmission lines can change significantly, and these package effects may produce new physical behavior or simply cause leakage to occur at a lower frequency than one would expect.
Can the HOSS framework help shed light on the simultaneous growth of inequality and informalization in developing countries

Using simple, modified versions of the factor proportions framework, and focusing on structural features within developing economies, this paper attempts to reconcile puzzling developments observed in many post-reform, post-liberalization countries whereby increasing income inequality has emerged side-by-side with informalization of the economy. Measures undertaken to enhance public sector efficiency and attract investment in an import-intensive export sector may increase rental–wage and skilled–unskilled wage gaps, contra the predictions of the simple Heckscher–Ohlin–Stolper–Samuelson (HOSS) framework regarding skill- and capital-scarce countries. The common thread generating our interesting results is the presence of sectors that are even more labor-intensive than those producing traded goods.
Calcium Sensitivity of Isometric Tension Is Increased in Canine Experimental Heart Failure

Abstract To examine the role of alterations in myofibrillar function in chronic heart failure, we determined isometric tension–pCa relations in permeabilized myocardium from a canine model of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) produced by chronic rapid pacing. In the initial series of experiments, seven dogs were paced at 250 beats per minute for 28.9±7.0 days, resulting in ventricular dilatation and reduced ejection fractions by echocardiography and elevated intracardiac filling pressures. Isometric tension–pCa relations were measured by using mechanically disrupted and permeabilized myocyte-sized preparations obtained from left ventricular biopsies before (n=11) and after (n=10) chronic rapid pacing–induced heart failure. Resting sarcomere length (SL) was set at 2.35 μm, and preparations had low end compliance (SL was 2.23±0.03 μm during maximal activation). Passive tension (2.1±1.0 versus 2.4±0.6 mN/mm2) and maximal Ca2+-activated tension (25.9±9.3 versus 27.8±6.8 mN/mm2) were similar for control and DCM pre...
Less is more: progenitor death and cortical size.

Cerebral cortex size in individuals and species is determined by cortical progenitor mitosis and death during embryogenesis. EphA signaling—important in axon guidance and patterning—also seems to be critical in regulating the survival of cortex progenitors.
An empirical model for predicting diffusion coefficients in silicate minerals.

An empirical model describing the diffusion kinetics of oxygen in silicate minerals under hydrothermal conditions has been established for temperatures between 773 and 1073 Kelvin at 100 megapascals of water pressure. The equation, log D = α + (β/T) + [(γ + (δ/T))Z], where D is the diffusion coefficient, α, β, γ, and δ are constants, T is the Kelvin temperature, and Z is the total ionic porosity, may be used to predict diffusion coefficients, in most cases to within the reported experimental reproducibility of a factor of 2. For oxygen diffusion, α = -2, β = -3.4 x 104K, γ = -0.13, and δ = 6.4 x 102K, for D in square centimeters per second. Limited data for the diffusion of argon in silicates suggest that the model describes this system as well.
Effects of phencyclidine, ketamine and MDMA on complex operant behavior in monkeys

In one component of a multiple schedule, patas monkeys acquired a different four-response chain each session by responding sequentially on three levers in the presence of four numerals (acquisition). In the other component, the four-response chain was the same each session (performance). The response chain in each component was maintained by food presentation under a fixed-ratio schedule. After IM administration, phencyclidine, ketamine, and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine or "ecstasy") each produced dose-related decreases in overall response rate in both schedule components, though ketamine and MDMA were less potent (on a mg/kg basis) than phencyclidine. At high doses of each drug, the marked decrease in overall response rate was due primarily to a long initial pause. Ketamine was similar to phencyclidine in producing dose-related increases in percent errors in both schedule components, but the maximal error-increasing effect was considerably smaller with ketamine. This quantitative difference appeared to be related to the shorter duration of ketamine's effects on accuracy. Unlike phencyclidine and ketamine, MDMA had no effect on accuracy in either acquisition or performance. The results indicate that MDMA disrupts complex operant behavior to a lesser extent than phencyclidine-type drugs.
Can We Improve Adherence to Preventive Therapies for Cardiovascular Health

Although mortality rates from cardiovascular disease (CVD) declined by 26% from 1995 to 2005,1 it remains the leading cause of death for US adults. The American Heart Association (AHA) set a 2020 impact goal to “improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20% while reducing deaths from CVD and stroke by 20%.”2 To this end, the AHA recommended prevention as a first-line strategy and identified “life's simple seven,”3 lifestyle behaviors and risk factors described in Table 1, which, if appropriately followed or adhered to, will improve cardiovascular health.2 View this table: Table 1. Summary of Life's Simple Seven Goals From the AHA Adherence refers to the extent to which patient behaviors align with clinical recommendations.4 The prevention behaviors offered by the AHA can be categorized as follows: (1) lifestyle behaviors, (2) screening, and (3) medication use. Lifestyle behaviors include a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in physical activity, and not smoking. Screenings include those for blood pressure, lipid levels, and diabetes mellitus. Medication use refers to over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and prescription medications such as lipid-lowering agents and antihypertensive medications. Adherence to preventive therapies is suboptimal. For example, only 5% of adults engage in the recommended amount of physical activity.5 In comparison, about 43% of adults with a history of CVD or equivalent CVD risk take statins6 and 57% of adults 25 years old had their cholesterol tested at least once in the past 5 years.7 High-risk lifestyle behaviors are most prevalent in populations with limited income and education, ethnic/racial minority populations, and in low-income communities.8,9 The challenge is even more complicated because having multiple risk factors is common.10 A 2001 National Health Interview Survey reported a clustering of smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol intake (41% …
Genetic analysis of fish genomes and populations: allozyme variation within and among Atlantic salmon from Downeast rivers of Maine

Analysis of genetic variation within and among samples of naturally produced Atlantic salmon (n = 372) from 7 Maine (U.S.A.) and one Canadian river were conducted based on 54 allozyme loci. Eight of the 54 loci proved polymorphic, and estimated heterozygosities (Hs) based on all loci ranged from 0-012 to 0-026 (mean = 0.021, S.E. = 0-002). Only one of 56 tests revealed genotypic proportions that deviated significantly from Hardy-Weinberg expectations. Genetic distances (D) between samples ranged from 0-002 to 0-022. No obvious association existed between genetic and geographic distances. Cluster analysis of genetic distances revealed the Dennys River sample as the most differentiated when all samples were included in the analysis, though bootstrap support of the cluster analysis was generally weak. G-tests revealed significant differences in allele frequencies among samples at five of the polymorphic loci, and the G-value summed over all loci also indicated significant differences among samples. F ST values indicated that 3.4% of the total genetic diversity was due to variability among samples, while 96.6% was due to variability within samples. These results indicate that the Atlantic salmon analyzed in this study had levels of genetic variability and differentiation among samples comparable to native populations from other areas collected across a similar geographic range.
Differences in health-related quality of life and treatment preferences among black and white patients with end-stage renal disease

Background: Relatively little is known about racial differences in health-related quality of life (HRQL) among patients receiving dialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or how such differences may relate to preferences for renal transplantation. Methods: We surveyed 1392 patients, ages 18–54 approximately 10 months after they initiated dialysis in 4 regions of the United States. The HRQL measures analyzed were overall health, emotional health, physical activity, energy level, social activity, and effect of ESRD on daily life. We also examined whether the measures of HRQL were associated with patients' preferences for renal transplantation by race. Results: After adjustment for socioeconomic and clinical characteristics, Black women and men reported better overall health than White women and men, respectively. Black women reported higher energy levels than white women, and black men reported less negative effects of ESRD on daily life compared to white men. Black men with high levels of physical activity were less likely to be certain about preferring a transplant than white men with similar levels of physical activity. Conclusions: Black patients receiving dialysis reported better HRQL than white patients, even after controlling for potential confounders. Racial differences in preferences for renal transplantation among men may be associated with their levels of physical activity.
Alternatives for Air Traffic Control Displays

The United States air traffic control (ATC) system is designed to provide for the safe and efficient flow of air traffic from origin to destination. Traffic levels are projected to continue increasing over the foreseeable future. Because of the potential consequences of errors, it is important to identify and reduce the factors that increase ATC complexity. This research examined the application of color and text enhancements to ATC displays as methods of reducing complexity in the en route environment. The enhancements tested in this study were color coding of (a) aircraft destination airport, (b) overflights, and (c) special use airspace. Eight Certified Professional Controllers participated in the high fidelity, human-in-the-loop simulation. The results suggest that the enhancements were effective in helping controllers maintain safety, efficiency, attention, and situational awareness. The controllers issued fewer altitude changes overall when the overflight enhancement was used. Similarly, they issued...
Application of the Harris-Nesbet Method to a Dipole Coupling Potential

Abstract Elastic and inelastic cross sections for a two-channel model problem, in which dipole coupling is assumed, are calculated in the Harris-Nesbet method and compared with direct solutions of the Schroedinger equation. Two different coupling potentials are considered, one of which permits exact solution in terms of known functions, while the other requires a numerical solution. Results accurate to 1 % are obtained for a non-degenerate case when a minimum representation for the wavefunction is taken as a combination of Slater orbitals and spherical Bessel and Neumann functions. For a degenerate case, it is found to be necessary to use sinusoidal energy-dependent terms in addition to Slater orbitals for a description of the internal part of the wave function and that, for the external part, only the leading asymptotic term of the spherical Bessel and Neumann functions need be retained.
Towards an 8th Pan-African Congress: the evolution of the race–class debate

In anticipating an 8th Pan-African Congress (PAC), this article reflects on the ideological dynamics of the 6th and 7th PACs that were convened in the last third of the 20th century. Of particular concern is the importance of drawing lessons from the persistent debates and contentions that took place at those meetings. Specifically, debates around Black nationalism and Black Marxism, that have been constants in Pan-Africanist discourse over the years, will remain significant. However, as calls for the next Congress grow, this article suggests a task of reflecting on the evolution of this important debate.
Photodegradation of fluorescein in solutions containing n-propyl gallate

The frequency domain technique was applied to measure the effect of n-propyl gallate (nPG) on the apparent photodegradation rate of fluorescein in aqueous solutions. The illuminating light was modulated and the change in fluorescence from the illuminated region was detected synchronously. A constant flow rate was imposed on the fluorescein solution to control the mass transport of fluorescein into the illuminated region. The photodegradation response was described by a model which assumed two steps: (1) singlet oxygen production via energy transfer between the excited triplet state of fluorescein and molecular oxygen in the ground triplet state and (2) photodegradation via the interaction of fluorescein with singlet oxygen. It was assumed that nPG affects the photodegradation of fluorescein by quenching the oxygen singlet state. In the context of this model, the rate of singlet oxygen quenching by nPG was found to be (1.3 ± 0.2) × 109 s-1M-1. The product of the singlet oxygen photosensitization rate, kox...
Isolation and properties of porcine thyroid fucokinase.

A 23 000-fold purification of porcine fucokinase (ATP:6-deoxy-l-galactose 1-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.52) has been achieved using a combination of ion-exchange, hydrophobic ligand, affinity, hydroxyapatite and molecular sieve chromatography. The enzyme was determined to have a subunit molecular weight of 78 180 ± 4260 by sodium dodecyl sulfate chromatography and a tetrameric molecular weight of 309 200 ± 4100 in the active state as determined by molecular sieve chromatography. The enzyme exhibits a single pH optimum at a pH value of 6.5 and gives evidence of a high order of specificity for l-fucose and ATP. The enzyme requires a divalent metal ion and this need is best satisfied by Mg2+. The activity of the enzyme is modified by a number of nucleotides. ADP is an enzyme inhibitor competitive with ATP. GDP-β-l-fucose is also an inhibitor and appears to compete with l-fucose. GDP-α-d-mannose stimulates the enzyme. A possible role for the actions of these nucleotide sugars is discussed.
Synthesis of carbon-11-labeled 4-(phenylamino)-pyrrolo[2,1-f][1,2,4]triazine derivatives as new potential PET tracers for imaging of p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase.

Abstract The reference standards methyl 4-(2-methyl-5-(methoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylate ( 10a ), methyl 4-(2-methyl-5-(ethoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylate ( 10b ) and corresponding precursors 4-(2-methyl-5-(methoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylic acid ( 11a ), methyl 4-(2-methyl-5-(ethoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylic acid ( 11b ) were synthesized from methyl crotonate and 3-amino-4-methylbenzoic acid in multiple steps with moderate to excellent yields. The target tracer [ 11 C]methyl 4-(2-methyl-5-(methoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylate ([ 11 C] 10a ) and [ 11 C]methyl 4-(2-methyl-5-(ethoxycarbamoyl)phenylamino)-5-methylpyrrolo[2,1- f ][1,2,4]triazine-6-carboxylate ([ 11 C] 10b ) were prepared from their corresponding precursors with [ 11 C]CH 3 OTf under basic condition through O-[ 11 C]methylation and isolated by a simplified solid-phase extraction (SPE) method in 50–60% radiochemical yields at end of bombardment (EOB) with 185–555 GBq/μmol specific activity at end of synthesis (EOS).
Mechanism and applications of Rieske non-heme iron dioxygenases

Abstract Oxygenases are a broad class of enzymes which are important for the catabolism or recycling of organic matter in the environment. Bacterial catabolism of hydrocarbons and substituted aromatic compounds often uses dioxygenases containing a Rieske iron–sulfur cluster and a non-heme iron center. The dioxygenases have been useful in producing oxygenated materials directly, or indirectly by generating chiral synthetic intermediates. The recent availability of protein structures and gene sequences provides new opportunities for expanding the usefulness of this enzyme class.
Apsidal motion of U Oph

The O−C diagram of U Oph, based on photoelectric and charge-coupled device data on the times of minimum light, was analysed. The traditional analysis method was used because of the clear sinusoidal shape of the O−C diagram (with a constant period). Thus, possible apsidal motion and a light time effect were considered. Moreover, taking into account the early visual and photographic data it was found to be consistent with our findings, within the error limits. Our results are in good agreement with those from previous analyses.
Kinetics of CO2 Absorption in MEA+DETA Blended Amine Solutions

The kinetics of CO2 absorption in unloaded aqueous MEA, MDEA, DETA single amine solutions and MEA+DETA blende amine solutions was studied with the amine concentrations of 3.0 kmol/m3 and at temperatures ranging between 298K and 338K. A dynamic model of CO2 absorption rate on the basis of the static absorption experimental results was established. The reaction rate constant of CO2 absorption in blended amine solutions MEA+DETA is , and its activation energy is 32.89KJ/mol.
Regiochemistry of the Cycloaddition of Unsymmetrical Alkenes with an Imino-1,2,4-Dithiazole

Two cycloaddition reactions were conducted with 5-(diphenylamino)-3-phenylimino-3H-1,2,4-dithiazole and the unsymmetrical alkenes, methyl acrylate and acrylonitrile, to produce thiazolidines 6 and 7, respectively. X-ray crystal structures of both compounds were obtained. The crystal of 6 is orthorhombic and space group Pbca with crystallographic parameters: a = 10.7090(14) A, b = 19.612(4) A, c = 21.353(3) A, α = 90°, β = 90°, γ = 90°, V = 4484.7 (14) A3, Z = 8, Dc = 1.326 Mg/m3, F(000) = 1872. The crystal of 7 is monoclinic and space group P2(1)/c with crystallographic parameters: a = 13.4143(5) A, b = 16.1088(6) A, c = 10.1644(6) A, α = 90°, β = 107.282(5)°, γ = 90°, V = 2097.25(17) A3, Z = 4, Dc = 1.313 Mg/m3, F(000) = 864. The crystal structures confirmed the thiazolidine structure and the predicted regiochemistry of the cycloaddition based on the electronics of the imino-1,2,4-dithiazole and the alkenes. Cycloaddition reactions were conducted between 5-(diphenylamino)-3-phenylimino-3H-1,2,4-dithiazole and methyl acrylate or acrylonitrile producing thiazolidine products in which the predicted regiochemistry was established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
Circulating concentrations of porcine relaxin in cows: Evaluation of vehicles and routes of administration

Abstract The effectiveness of various delivery vehicles and routes of administration in providing a sustained concentration of circulating relaxin in the cow was evaluated. Porcine relaxin (1 mg) was administered to cows during estrus as follows: 1) intramuscularly in 5% beeswax in sesame oil, 2) subcutaneously in beeswax/oil, 3) intracervically in K-Y gel, 4) intramuscularly in saline, and 5) intravenously in saline. Blood samples were taken over a 48-h period after administration, and plasma concentrations of relaxin were determined by radioimmunoassay. The half-life of relaxin from intravenous administration was determined to be 16.6 min. The beeswax/oil carrier diminished the release of relaxin, with plasma concentrations consistently lower than those seen with relaxin in a saline carrier. Relaxin, administered intramuscularly in saline, reached a peak concentration of 12.6 ± 1.2 ng/ml (Mean ± SEM) at 1.1 ± 0.2 h compared with only 2.8 ± 1.3 ng/ml at 1.8 ± 0.5 h when administered intramuscularly in oil. In addition, use of the beeswax/oil carrier unexpectedly acted like an adjuvant, resulting in the development of antibodies against porcine relaxin. After relaxin was deposited in the cervix, systemic concentrations of the hormone were marginally detectable (0.4 ± 0.2 ng/ml).
Sodium NMR evaluation of articular cartilage degradation

One of the first effects of degenerative osteoarthritis is the loss of proteoglycans from the matrix of articular cartilage. Using a model of osteoarthritic change where the cartilage has been enzymatically degraded with trypsin, the sodium NMR characteristics of the cartilage were determined as a function of changes in the proteoglycan content. The results demonstrate that the single quantum sodium signal decreases as the proteoglycan content of the cartilage matrix decreases. In addition, the relaxation characteristics of the sodium change such that the T1 is longer, the T2s is longer, and the T2f is shorter. Short echo-time, T1-weighted sodium images are presented which demonstrate that this information may be utilized to detect the loss of proteoglycans from articular cartilage. Magn Reson Med 41:30-34, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.