cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of contractions of the smooth muscle of the guinea-pig vas deferens induced by ATP and related nucleotides.

The shape of contractile responses of the isolated guinea-pig vas deferens changes as ATP concentration is increased from 10−7 to 10−2 M. The ATP concentration-response curve is bimodal and reflects the change in response profile. Initially spike-like (10−7−3 × 10−5 M) in nature, contractions acquire a secondary, slower tonic phase in transitional ATP concentrations (⩾ 3 × 10−5M). At high ATP concentrations (10−2 M) the secondary phase predominates. To determine if there are structural requirements for these complex effects, responses to ATP were compared to those elicited with analogs containing phosphate-chain, ribose and adenine modifications. In general, substitution of 5′-anhydride linkages with methylene or imido bridges prolonged responses to low concentrations but at high concentrations both potentiated and abbreviated the responses. ATPγS, a substrate for phosphohydrolases which incorporate phosphate but which are less able to remove thiophosphate, produced responses with a greatly prolonged tonic phase. Removal of the 2′-hydroxyl of ATP resulted in reduced potency at low concentrations while removal of the 3′-hydroxyl was without effect. Modification of both the 1 and N6 positions of adenine substantially reduced agonist activity. Responses to ATP and the β, γ-methylene congener were unaffected by treatment with 10−5 M indomethacin. The results indicate that more than one simple interaction of ATP with a receptor is involved in the production of responses to ATP. Of several hypotheses discussed, we favor one which suggests that the phasic responses to low concentrations of ATP are receptor-mediated and modified by tissue enzymes, while those to high concentrations are mediated, in part, by hydrolysis per se. The hypothesis, which realizes that conformational preferences may exist as well, is proposed for the vas deferens only.
Improving endothelial cell adhesion to vascular graft surfaces: Clinical need and strategies

Synthetic vascular grafts do not spontaneously endothelialize in humans and require some form of anticoagulation to maintain patency. Preseeding synthetic graft materials such as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with endothelial cells (EC) has been examined in various in vitro and in vivo models. Although various studies provide encouraging results, clinical trials for EC seeding on synthetic grafts have not been equally successful. This paper provides a brief review of the various reports on EC seeding in animal and clinical studies. We discuss the inefficiencies associated with the EC seeding process and examine plasma protein treatment of the graft surfaces as a viable option for improving EC attachment, retention and spreading. As an alternative to existing therapies we present data on a heterogeneous ligand treatment of fibronectin (Fn) and avidin-biotin for enhanced human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) adhesion to ePTFE graft surfaces. Control consisted of HUVECs seeded on Fn treated ePTFE graft surfaces. Functionality of HUVECs was assessed by measuring prostacyclin production of cells on both homogeneous and heterogeneous ligand treated surfaces. Laminar flow studies with a variable width flow chamber and scanning electron microscopy were used to measure initial cell retention and observe initial cell spreading on ePTFE surfaces, respectively. HUVEC retention on heterogeneous ligand treated graft surface was significantly (p < 0.001) higher compared to homogeneous ligand treated surfaces for shear stress in the range of 10-30 dyn cm(-2). HUVEC showed more cellular spreading on the heterogeneous ligand treated surface after seeding for 1-2 h. In vivo experimentation was performed in immune deficient (nude) rats by replacing a section of both the femoral arteries with 8 mnm long, 1 mm internal diameter denucleated ePTFE grafts treated with homogeneous and heterogeneous ligands respectively. Both grafts were seeded with similar cell density for 15 min prior to implantation. EC attachment and retention was measured by staining EC with hematoxylin and counting the cells before and after flow using light microscopy. The results indicate that a heterogeneous ligand treatment of graft surfaces using avidin-biotin and Fn-integrin attachment mechanisms increase cell seeding efficiency, initial cell retention and cellular spreading.
Four times heroic

The Port of Veracruz is known in the epic of Mexican history as the city “four times heroic”—a phrase that glorifies acts of local sacrifice in the name of national sovereignty. Battles fought on home turf against the Spanish in 1825, the French in 1838, the North Americans in 1847 and the gringos again in 1914 constitute four dramatic episodes that distinguish the port as a site of Mexican defense against foreign invaders. In the 1914 U.S. intervention in Mexico the reports of foreign correspondents chronicled North American bias as well as different forms of resistance to the occupation by Mexicans. As was the case with other acts of U.S. imperialism throughout the hemisphere at the time, the Veracruz event revealed an attitude on the part of the North Americans which was generally arrogant and disrespectful. For this reason the Mexicans called them gringos.
Molecular modeling studies of polymorphism in titanyl phthalocyanines

The morphology of phthalocyanine pigments used as charge generation materials can dramatically affect their photosensitivity. Titanyl phthalocyanine [O=Ti(pc)] is an example of this type of material, where the type IV polymorph possesses high photosensitivity (E 1/2 < 0.2 μJ/cm 2 ) when formulated with appropriate charge transport materials. In this study, we have examined the known crystal structures (refined either from single-crystal or powder diffraction data) of titanyl phthalocyanine in detail, and have simulated their X-ray powder diffraction patterns for comparison with experimental data. Powder diffraction patterns have also been simulated for slight modifications of the crystal structures, with major effects observed for rotation of the molecule about the O=Ti axis and for variation in the crystallite size. Many so-called polymorphs claimed in the patent literature for the phthalocyanine pigments may well be ascribed to this type of subtle change in molecular geometry or crystal size.
Nanosqueezed light for probing mitochondria and calcium-induced membrane swelling for study of neuroprotectants

We report a new bioMEMs nanolaser technique for measuring characteristics of small organelles. We have initially applied the method to study mitochondria, a very small (500nm to 1um) organelle containing the respiration apparatus for animal cells. Because the mitochondria are so tiny, it has been difficult to study them using standard light microscope or flow cytometry techniques. We employ a recently discovered a nano-optical transduction method for high-speed analysis of submicron organelles. This ultrasensitive detection of submicron particles uses nano-squeezing of light into photon modes imposed by the ultrasmall organelle dimensions in a submicron laser cavity. In this paper, we report measurements of mitochondria spectra under normal conditions and under high calcium ion gradient conditions that upset membrane homeostasis and lead to organelle swelling and lysis, similar to that observed in the diseased state. The measured spectra are compared with our calculations of the electromagnetic modes in normal and distended mitochondria using multiphysics finite element methods.
Pseudopotential total-energy study of the transition from rhombohedral graphite to diamond.

The path maintaining rhombohedral symmetry in the transition from graphite to diamond which minimizes the energy at each value of the bond length between layers is determined. The energy barrier for this path is found to be 0.33 eV. The total energy of the solid is calculated using local-density-functional theory with ab initio pseudopotentials. Results are presented for the charge density and density of states along the transition path. In contrast to recent extended-H\"uckel-theory results, throughout most of the transition the structure is found to remain semimetallic or semiconducting. A final rapid opening of the gap to the insulating diamond phase develops as the interlayer carbon-carbon bonds form. The behavior of rhombohedral graphite under conditions of isotropic pressure is also examined. We predict that rhombohedral graphite will transform to diamond, without thermal or catalytic activation, at an isotropic pressure of 80 GPa if it maintains its rhombohedral symmetry. Our analysis moreover suggests that, in general, cross linking of hexagonal-ring carbon compounds leading to local tetrahedral coordination should be favored when the interlayer distance between hexagonal rings is between 2.1 and 2.3 A\r{}.
Ovarian- and Somatic-specific Transcripts of the Mosquito Clathrin Heavy Chain Gene Generated by Alternative 5′-Exon Splicing and Polyadenylation

Insect oocytes are extraordinarily specialized for receptor-mediated endocytosis of yolk protein precursors. The clathrin heavy chain (CHC) is the major structural protein of coated vesicles, the principal organelles of receptor-mediated endocytosis. To understand the role of clathrin in the development of the oocyte's powerful endocytotic machinery we determined the structure of the mosquito chc gene. The gene spans approximately 45 kilobases and its coding region is divided into seven exons, five of which encode the protein. Three distinct mature transcripts of this gene were identified in mosquito tissues. Two of them code isoforms of the CHC polypeptide differing in their NH2-terminal sequences, and are specifically expressed in female germ-line cells. The third transcript has a 3′-untranslated region about 1 kilobase longer than the other variants, and is found only in the somatic cells. Tissue-specific 5′-exon splicing and alternative polyadenylation of the primary transcript combine to give rise to these mRNAs. We identified two alternative promoters, distal and proximal, separated by approximately 10 kilobases involved in tissue-specific regulation of mosquito chc gene expression. Our data provide the first molecular evidence for complex structure and regulation of a chc gene, in this case occurring at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels.
Use of a squatting movement as a clinical marker of function after total knee arthroplasty.

OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to evaluate weight bearing during standing and 30- and 60-degree squats approximately 1 wk and 2 mos after surgery and determine whether weight bearing during squatting could be a better clinical marker than standing for identifying perceived functional limitation approximately 1 wk after surgery. A further objective was to determine whether age, body mass index, and number of outpatient visits over the course of rehabilitation predicted weight bearing during a squat approximately 2 mos after surgery. DESIGN The percentage of body weight placed over both limbs during stand and 30- and 60-degree squats in 38 patients (25 women and 13 men) who had primary unilateral knee arthroplasty was determined. An asymmetry index would be used as a marker that could discriminate between those who perceived at least moderate difficulty with functional tasks and those who perceived only slight or no difficulty with functional activities based on the physical function dimension of the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index approximately 1 wk after surgery. Stepwise regression was conducted to determine whether clinical characteristics predicted weight-bearing asymmetry at discharge. RESULTS At initial visit (first observation), and compared with the uninvolved side, individuals placed significantly less body weight over the involved or operated limb for stand and 30- and 60-degree squats (P < 0.0001). Results were similar at last rehabilitation visit (second observation). Identifying at least moderate self-reported difficulty with functional tasks based on the receiver operator characteristic curve for the asymmetry index for the stand position was 0.64, whereas for the 30- and 60-degree squats, the area under the curve was 0.81 and 0.89, respectively. At discharge from rehabilitation, there was a moderate to good direct relationship (r = 0.70) between the number of rehabilitation visits completed and the weight-bearing asymmetry index for the 60-degree squat. CONCLUSIONS On the first outpatient visit, individuals who had primary unilateral knee arthroplasty placed more body weight over the uninvolved side for the three weight-bearing positions. With high probability, the asymmetry index for both squatting angles identified perceived functional difficulty. As rehabilitation visits increased, there was a direct association to improved interlimb weight-bearing symmetry when squatting to 60 degrees.
Perforated congenital diverticulum of the sigmoid colon.

Abstract A case of perforation of a congenital sigmoid diverticulum producing diffuse peritonitis in a 4-year-old boy is presented. Physical examination showed an acute abdomen despite a normal computed tomography study. Successful surgical treatment was achieved by excision of the diverticulum, adjacent bowel, and an end-to-end anastomosis. J Pediatr Surg 37:E35. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Emergence of spontaneous alternation in the kitten

Two studies are reported that describe the development of spontaneous alternation in the kitten. The first indicates that 3- and 4-week-old kittens do not alternate whereas animals 5 weeks and older do alternate. The second suggests that inability to discriminate maze arms is an unlikely explanation for the lack of alternation among the youngest animals. The approximate simultaneity between the onset of alternation (described here) and the maturation of the kitten hippocampus (described by others) is taken as support for the notion that hippocampal maturation may be related to the development of spontaneous alternation.
Thyroid gland influences the period of hamster circadian oscillations.

The locomotor activity of ovariectomized, adult golden hamsters was monitored under constant dim illumination. Thiourea treatment lengthened the period (τ) of locomotor activity of thyroidectomized hamsters in comparison to pre-operative τs and in comparison to the τs of control hamsters. The results confirm hormonal modulation of the circadian system.
Ultrasonic Attenuation and Elastic Constants for Uranium Dioxide

Elastic-constant measurements for ${c}_{11}$,${c}_{11}\ensuremath{-}{c}_{12}$ and ${c}_{44}$ have been made over the temperature range of 4.2 to 300\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Anomalies are found in all three elastic constants near the N\'eel point, but particularly large anomalies are seen for ${c}_{44}$. Ultrasonic attenuation measurements at 50 MHz for all three elastic constants are also given as a function of temperature. Both ${c}_{11}$ and ${c}_{11}\ensuremath{-}{c}_{12}$ have small attenuations confined to the immediate vicinity of ${T}_{N}$. There is a very large attenuation associated with ${c}_{44}$, and the attenuation extends over a broad temperature range. ${c}_{44}$ is seen to vary as ${T}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ in the paramagnetic region. This behavior has led to an analysis of ${c}_{44}$ in the paramagnetic region, in terms of a coupling between elastic strains and the triplet ground state for the ${\mathrm{U}}^{4+}$ ion. The magnitude of the strain coupling parameter is deduced from the data to be 722 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ per unit strain. Dynamical Jahn-Teller interactions are discussed as the source of this coupling. The attenuation for ${c}_{44}$ is analyzed in terms of relaxation theory and it is shown that the relaxation time deduced varies exponentially with temperature, with relaxation times of the order of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}11}$ sec. The ${c}_{11}$, the ${c}_{11}\ensuremath{-}{c}_{12}$, and part of the ${c}_{44}$ data are discussed in relation to an Ising-model calculation of Garland and co-workers. Only qualitative statements can be made, but it seems reasonable that the ${c}_{44}$ data reflect the angular dependence of the exchange energy, particularly of the U---O---U bond. The ${c}_{11}$ and ${c}_{11}\ensuremath{-}{c}_{12}$ attenuation data below ${T}_{N}$ are qualitatively in agreement with the Landau-Khalatnikov theory of relaxation by critical scattering from long-range order fluctuations. A relaxation time of 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}10}$ sec is estimated for relaxation due to long-range order fluctuations below ${T}_{N}$. There are no such fluctuations above ${T}_{N}$.
A phase I clinical trial of adoptive T cell therapy using IL-12 secreting MUC-16 ecto directed chimeric antigen receptors for recurrent ovarian cancer

Recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer has no curative options, necessitating the development of novel treatments, including immunotherapy. Patient-derived T cells can be genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) specific to tumor-associated antigens in an HLA-independent manner, with promising preclinical results. MUC16ecto is highly expressed on most epithelial ovarian carcinomas but at low levels on normal tissues, offering an excellent immunotherapeutic target for this cancer. CAR T cells further modified to secrete IL-12 show enhanced cytotoxicity, persistence, and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. We propose a dose escalation phase I clinical trial for patients with recurrent MUC-16ecto+ ovarian cancer to test the safety of intravenous and intraperitoneal administration and the preliminary efficacy of autologous IL-12 secreting, MUC-16ecto CAR T cells containing a safety elimination gene. This trial targets MUC-16ecto, a novel and promising tumor-associated antigen. This will be the first time CAR T cells are injected intraperitoneally directly into the site of the tumor within the abdomen in humans. Furthermore, the ability of genetically modified cells to secrete IL-12 will potentially enhance CAR T cell persistence and modulate the tumor microenvironment. For safety purposes, an elimination gene has been incorporated into the CAR T cells to mitigate any on-target, off-tumor or other unforeseen toxicity.
Silicon light-valve array chip for high-resolution reflective liquid crystal projection displays

A crystalline silicon active-matrix 2048 × 2048- pixel light-valve array chip has been designed and fabricated as part of the development of a reflective liquid crystal technology for projection displays. The small feature processing and higher circuit performance available with crystalline silicon technology were exploited for the design and fabrication of the active-matrix chip. A 10-V CMOS process was developed to satisfy active-matrix pixel-cell requirements. Row-selection circuits were integrated which incorporate redundant data paths. Adjacent-line demultiplexing circuitry was integrated to minimize the number of external data drivers, to minimize the number of connections, and to maximize chip yield. The pixel, row-driver, and data-driver demultiplexing circuit designs and performance are discussed. The testing methods are presented, The chip is 64 mm on a side and is used in a prototype rear-projection color display system. Companion papers describe the system and its additional components incorporated in the prototype display system.
Calcium antagonists and acute renal failure

Purpose To critically review the question of whether calcium antagonists can prevent or attenuate post-ischemic acute renal failure (ARF). Patients and methods Using a computer-assisted search, we identified all experimental and clinical studies published in English between 1980 and 1988 in which the main research question addressed the efficacy of verapamil, diltiazem, or nifedipine in the treatment of post-ischemic ARF. Studies were then selected for review based on clearly specified inclusion criteria and evaluated against accepted methodologic guidelines. Results In experimental studies of warm renal ischemia, calcium antagonists provided significant protection of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) when given before and after ischemic injury; however, isolated pre- or post-ischemic treatment produced equivocal results. In autotransplantation studies on protracted cold ischemia, verapamil produced a modest, although physiologically significant, increase in GFR during warm reperfusion but failed to alter graft survival. Studies of calcium antagonists in humans with ARF have been confined to patients undergoing renal transplantation. Diltiazem given both to donor grafts and to recipients produced a significant reduction in the rate of delayed graft functon but failed to improve one-year graft survival. This result may be due to the study of small numbers of low-risk patients. At present, there is no conclusive evidence that one calcium antagonist is more efficacious than another in the treatment of post-ischemic ARF. Conclusions Calcium antagonists appear to prevent or reduce the severity of post-ischemic ARF only when given prior to and after the ischemic insult. As a result, these agents will have most utility in the setting of renal transplantation. Although the efficacy of these agents in reducing delayed graft function appears to be established, their failure to improve graft survival is poorly understood and requires further investigation.
Amino‐terminal sequence homology of two chick kidney mitochondrial proteins immunoisolated with monoclonal antibodies to the cytochrome P450 of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3‐1α‐hydroxylase

We demonstrate the unique capability of monoclonal antibodies for the specific immunodetection and characterization of two antigenic proteins occurring in normal chick kidney mitochondrial extracts. The antigens were adsorbed to cyanogen bromide-activated Sepharose gel coupled to monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) of the IgM class raised against cytochrome P450(1) alpha, which inhibit equally the 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1 alpha- and 24-hydroxylase catalytic activities (Mandel et al. 1990 J Clin Lab Immunol, in press). The two identified antigenic proteins are polypeptides with apparent molecular weights of 57,000 and 55,000 daltons. The 1 alpha-hydroxylase cytochrome P450 has been shown to have a molecular weight of 57,000 daltons (Mandel et al. 1990 Biochim Biophys Acta 1034:239-246). The optimal antigen:gel ratio for maximal antigen binding as cytochrome P450 heme, which was determined spectrally, was found to be 1.3 nmol cytochrome P450 per g MAb-coupled Sepharose. At this ratio the total binding capacity of the gel was 1 nmol cytochrome P450 per g Sepharose. The two polypeptides were desorbed with 0.1% Emulgen 911 in 25% glycerol at pH 3.0 and separated by SDS-gel electrophoresis. The amino-terminal sequences of the two antigens were determined by automated Edman degradation with an on-line analyzer of PTH derivatives. The sequences in both antigens were 100% homologous. Complete amino acid composition analysis also revealed that their amino acid compositions were highly similar. These findings suggest that the smaller protein may be a proteolytic cleavage product of the 1 alpha-hydroxylase P450 cytochrome and may represent a putative 24-hydroxylase antigen.
Black cohosh, a menopausal remedy, does not have estrogenic activity and does not promote breast cancer cell growth

Black cohosh is an increasingly popular alternative to estrogen replacement therapy for the relief of menopausal symptoms, primarily hot flushes. However, an important consideration for long-term therapy is potential toxicity and carcinogenicity. Therefore, we undertook a study to assess the estrogenic activity of black cohosh to examine its safety for those with, or at high risk of developing, breast cancer. Several assays were utilized as listed: RNAse protection assays, which ascertain the regulation of the expression of E2-responsive genes; estrogen-responsive-element (ERE)-luciferase, which determines modulation of the ER function by transactivation of the ERE; the Ishikawa cell system, which has an E2-regulated endogenous alkaline phosphatase; and colony formation of ER-expressing breast cancer cells, which indicates possible progression of early stage breast cancer into a more aggressive state. Black cohosh extracts did not demonstrate estrogenic activity in any of these assay systems. This is an encouraging step in the assessment of the safety of black cohosh for treatment of menopausal hot flushes.
LOW-ENERGY ANTIPROTON INTERACTIONS IN HYDROGEN AND DEUTERIUM

The distributions of charged particles resulting from antiproton annihilations in hydrogen and deuterium are compared with the predictions resulting from the "normalized" statistical theory of Fermi. Multiplicities and momentum distributions are shown to be in agreement with the theory if the radius of the interaction volume is chosen to be about 3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}13}$ cm. The values given for the average multiplicities observed in hydrogen and deuterium are 4.94\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.31 and 5.03\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.44, respectively, both somewhat lower than found in the emulsion experiments. $K$-meson production in annihilations was found to be consistent with previous experiments, but the number of events is statistically inadequate to warrant any new conclusions. The total elastic scattering cross sections in hydrogen, though of small statistical significance, are in agreement with recent theoretical calculations.
Quantification of F-ring isoprostane-like compounds (F4-neuroprostanes) derived from docosahexaenoic acid in vivo in humans by a stable isotope dilution mass spectrometric assay

Abstract Lipid peroxidation has been implicated in the pathophysiological sequelae of human neurodegenerative disorders. It is recognized that quantification of lipid peroxidation is best assessed in vivo by measuring a series of prostaglandin (PG) F 2 -like compounds termed F 2 -isoprostanes (IsoPs) in tissues in which arachidonic acid is abundant. Unlike other organs, the major polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in the brain is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 ω-6), and this fatty acid is particularly enriched in neurons. We have previously reported that DHA undergoes oxidation in vitro and in vivo resulting in the formation of a series of F 2 -IsoP-like compounds termed F 4 -neuroprostanes (F 4 -NPs). We recently chemically synthesized one F 4 -NP, 17-F 4c -NP, converted it to an 18 O-labeled derivative, and utilized it as an internal standard to develop an assay to quantify endogenous production of F 4 -NPs by gas chromatography (GC)/negative ion chemical ionization (NICI) mass spectrometry (MS). The assay is highly precise and accurate. The lower limit of sensitivity is approximately 10 pg. Levels of F 4 -NPs in brain tissue from rodents were 8.7±2.0 ng/g wet weight (mean±S.D.). Levels of the F 4 -NPs in brains from normal humans were found to be 4.9±0.6 ng/g (mean±S.D.) and were 2.1-fold higher in affected regions of brains from humans with Alzheimer’s disease ( P =0.02). Thus, this assay provides a sensitive and accurate method to assess oxidation of DHA in animal and human tissues and will allow for the further elucidation of the role of oxidative injury to the central nervous system in association with human neurodegenerative disorders.
Leader Interventions for Distressed Group Members Overcoming Leaders' Self-Serving Attributional Biases

Mitchell's two-step model of leader interventions for poor performing group members was examined as a toolfor understanding leader behaviors in relation to members who are task effective but personally distressed Case studies were presented to 136 hospital nurses who, in the role of a head nurse, were asked to deal with a highly effective yet distressed group member. Results indicated that leaders (subjects) could overcome self-serving attributional biases and infer that they, the group leaders, could be the cause of the group members' distress. Subjects who made such attributions were more likely to change their own leader-ship style than subjects who inferred the distress was caused by the members 'efforts, ability, or personal andfamily problems-a conclusion that supports Mitchell 's two-step model.
Effect of platelet-activating factor and its receptor antagonist, SRI 63-675, on gastric bleeding in rats.

Gastric bleeding from an induced mucosal wound was monitored for 2 h in a rat model in which the normal haemostasis was disturbed mechanically by perfusing the lesion with saline. The bleeding pattern was characterized by continuous and/or rebleeding episodes. Intravenous infusion of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in a dose of 25 ng/kg/min reduced the blood loss by 92% without affecting the bleeding pattern or the macroscopic appearance of the mucosa significantly. Concomitant administration of the PAF receptor antagonist SRI 63-675 in a dose of 50 ng/kg/min completely reversed the effects of PAF. The bleeding was unchanged after PAF receptor antagonist alone, suggesting that endogenous PAF might not participate in the in vivo haemostasis after an acute gastric mucosal lesion.
Use of a very-low-frequency electromagnetic method at 9.5 kHz to detect buried drums in sandy soil

Abstract A detailed study of the very-low-frequency electromagnetic (VLF-EM) method was undertaken at a single field site where a prescribed distribution of bur Results indicated that the technique will undoubtedly detect and delineate any typical dump site with predominantly metal (usually steel) drums. Single Isolated plastic drums are very difficult to detect; however, a large group with highly conductive contents could probably be detected. A quite unexpected result was that single, empty 40 gallon plastic drums can be detected to three feet of soil cover. Theoretical considerations indica It remains to show if these same conclusions will hold true in a more general soil type, one which contains a significant clay fraction.
Some Instabilities and Moral Deficiencies of the ‘Post‐Industrial’ Society

world of tomorrow. The one thing that characterizes all these forecasts -as may be noted in several scenarios for what is called the 'post-industrial' society provided by two leading futurists, Bell (1) and Kahn (2)is the preoccupation with the physical and material 'outer limits' of our world. These scenarios serve to anticipate and hence possibly avert ecological, demographic and economic crises. As scenarios, however, they fail to focus on the social, psychological and cultural 'inner limits' which could give positive direction to human aspirations. If man's social evolution is to be rational, humane and mentally healthy it is these 'inner limits'-our values, our social ideals, our notions of the good life and our ethical credos-that will be the real determinants of our collective future.
Climatic control of the assemblages of secondary clay minerals in the A-horizon of United States soils

The concentrations (per cent) of secondary clay minerals (mica, vermiculite, montmorillonite, chlorite and kaolinite) in the A-horizon of 99 soil sample sites were entered into a cluster program to determine the common clay mineral assemblages found in U.S. soils. Five major assemblages were identified with the most common assemblage consisting of mica, montmorillonite and kaolinite. A suite of climatic variables was determined for each of the 99 sites, including the water balance variables and Arkley's leaching index. A discriminant analysis was then used to predict the occurrence of a clay assemblage from the climate data. Sixty per cent of the sites could be correctly predicted, although not all assemblages could be predicted equally well; two assemblages could be predicted with 88 and 82 per cent accuracy. The precipitation of the wettest month and Arkley's leaching index accounted for most of the predictive power. Thus this study supports theoretical models which suggest that seasonal moisture supply is an important control of clay genesis and persistence. A residuals analysis indicated that many of the palaeosols in the data set and many of the soils from glacial parent materials possessed clay mineral assemblages not expected on the basis of modern climate.
Sensitized Attentional Performance and Fos-Immunoreactive Cholinergic Neurons in the Basal Forebrain of Amphetamine-Pretreated Rats

Background The consequences of repeated exposure to psychostimulants have been hypothesized to model aspects of schizophrenia. This experiment assessed the consequences of the administration of an escalating dosing regimen of amphetamine (AMPH) on attentional performance. Fos-like immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) in selected regions of these rats’ brains was examined to test the hypothesis that AMPH-sensitized attentional impairments are associated with increased recruitment of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. Methods Rats were trained in a sustained attention task and then treated with saline or in accordance with an escalating dosing regimen of AMPH (1–10 mg/kg). Performance was assessed during the pretreatment and withdrawal periods and following the subsequent administration of AMPH “challenges” (.5, 1.0 mg/kg). Brain sections were double-immunostained to visualize Fos-IR and cholinergic neurons. Results Compared with the acute effects of AMPH, AMPH “challenges,” administered over 2 months after the pretreatment was initiated, resulted in significant impairments in attentional performance. In AMPH-pretreated and -challenged animals, an increased number of Fos-IR neurons was observed in the basal forebrain. The majority of these neurons were cholinergic. Conclusions The evidence supports the hypothesis that abnormally regulated cortical cholinergic inputs represent an integral component of neuronal models of the attentional dysfunctions of schizophrenia.
Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann disease (pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta fulminans) presenting as Stevens-Johnson syndrome

We present two pediatric patients with pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta fulminans whose admitting diagnosis was Stevens Johnson Syndrome. The patients were successfully treated with methotrexate and prednisone. These cases highlight the importance of early recognition and treatment of this disease to prevent further morbidity and a potentially fatal prognosis.
Professional Specialization, Perceived Anomalies, and Rival Cosmologies:

Kuhn (1970) suggests that scientists' interest in refinement of speculative models occurs only when they believe present theory cannot explain persistent observational anomalies. A survey of Americ...
Conformational Equilibria of β-Alanine and Related Compounds as Studied by NMR Spectroscopy

The vicinal proton−proton couplings of the dipolar form of β-alanine in water, alcohol−water, and dimethyl sulfoxide−water solutions indicate little conformational preference and are consistent with an essentially statistical equilibrium of the gauche or trans conformations. The position of the equilibrium is only slightly affected, over a temperature range of about 130°, by changes in dielectric constants ranging from 30 to 80 or by massive changes in ionic strength. Quantum-mechanical calculations at the HF/6-31G^(**) and LMP2/cc-pVTZ levels were found to give rather good parallels with experiment, although suggesting the gauche conformation to be 2−3 kcal/mol more stable in water or methanol than actually observed. A number of related compounds, such as N,N,N-trimethyl-β-alanine and N,N-diethyl-β-alanine, as well as the conjugate acid and conjugate base of β-alanine, also show no significant conformational preference in water solution. In conformity with these results, the zwitterionic form of piperidine-3-carboxylic acid (nipecotic acid) has about the same preference for equatorial carboxylate as cyclohexanecarboxylic acid itself. Taurine shows no significant conformational preference except in basic solution, where the couplings indicate about 53% of the gauche conformation. In contrast, N,N,N-trimethyltaurine is predominantly trans in acidic or neutral solution. The conformational equilibria of the N,N,N-trimethyltaurine species are most likely governed by steric hindrance, because there are rather large tetrahedral groups at each end of the ethano chains. Yet, even here the energy difference between gauche and trans is only about 1.2 kcal.
Engaging Citizens: A Cross Cultural Comparison of Youth Definitions of Engaged Citizenship

In recent years, citizenship, particularly what it means to be an engaged and active citizen, has received considerable attention from researchers and theorists in the field of education. This burgeoning interest is not surprising, given that in most societies educational institutions have been accorded primary responsibility for educating young people to become good citizens. As the debate over what it means to be an active citizen continues, and as educators continue to seek ways to foster civic engagement, it is critical to solicit and include the perspectives of young people. In addition, it is important for researchers to explore the ways in which conceptualizations of citizenship might vary across diverse cultures. Through thematic content analysis of narratives of engaged citizenship generated by young people in Germany and the United States, this paper examines cultural differences in the communicative construction of what it means to be an engaged citizen and explores the implications of those differences for higher education.
Nucleosomes Are Exposed at the Cell Surface in Apoptosis

Apoptotic cells are considered the source of DNA, histones, and nucleoprotein complexes that drive the production of autoantibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus. However, the role of apoptotic cells in the activation of the immune system is not clear. To explore interactions that may initiate or sustain the production of anti-nuclear autoantibodies, we characterized the binding of a large panel of monoclonal autoantibodies to apoptotic cells. Autoantibodies to DNA, individual core histones, histone-DNA complexes, or the native nucleosome core particle revealed a consistent and specific binding pattern in confocal microscopy. Immunoreactive epitopes were detected in the cytoplasm and accumulated along the surface of the fragmenting nucleus in a caspase-dependent manner. Ag-Ab complexes on nuclear fragments that had emerged from the plasma membrane were accessible to anti-isotype-reactive microparticles. Moreover, autoantibodies specific for the nucleosome core or its molecular components selectively precipitated a complex of core histones and DNA from the cytosol at 4 h after induction of apoptosis. These observations identify distinct steps in the release of nucleosomes from the nucleus and their exposure at the cell surface. Furthermore, the results indicate a direct role for nucleosomes in the execution of apoptosis, clearance of apoptotic cells, and regulation of anti-nuclear autoantibody production.
Structural and Electrochemical Characterization of Glassy Carbon Prepared from Silicon‐Doped Polymethacrylonitrile/Divinylbenzene Copolymer

There has been a great deal of discussion on the potential role of heteroatoms in carbons intended for lithium ion intercalation. Previous observations have been mixed, ranging from beneficial to detrimental effects on intercalation capacity, irreversible losses, and charge efficiencies. The introduction or substitution of silicon into a carbon matrix prepared by chemical vapor deposition has demonstrated a positive effect. The present study concerns substitutional effects in disordered carbons synthesized from polymer precursors. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance, photoacoustic IR spectroscopy, X‐ray fluorescence, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy were used to follow the modified carbon synthesis. Silicon is successfully incorporated into the polymer matrix by copolymerizing the precursors with tetravinylsilane. On oxidative stabilization and pyrolysis, however, the Si‐C connectivity is replaced by Si‐O coordination. These silicon species appear to be discrete, and no evidence for either a crystalline or amorphous secondary phase is seen. These silicon species have a profound effect on the electrochemical performance. Irreversible loss processes are greatly increased, and charge efficiencies are decreased when compared to nonsubstituted controls. © 1999 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.
A New Species of Pterygodermatites (Nematoda: Rictulariidae) from the Incan Shrew Opossum, Lestoros inca

Abstract: Pterygodermatites (Paucipectines) hymanae n. sp. (Rictulariidae) collected from the Incan shrew opossum, Lestoros inca, from Peru is described herein. These nematodes show a subapical, slightly dorsal oral opening and a laterally compressed buccal capsule with 2 conspicuous lateral walls and a dorsal wall. Each lateroventral wall possesses 4 relatively large denticles, and the dorsal wall has 6 denticles. Females are characterized by a conspicuously large postvulvar 37th spine, which may reach 1 mm. This is the first record of endoparasites in the Incan shrew opossum and the fifth species of Pterygodermatites recorded in New World marsupials.
Recombinant Activated Factor VII for Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage

background Intracerebral hemorrhage is the least treatable form of stroke and is associated with high mortality. Among patients who undergo computed tomography (CT) within three hours after the onset of intracerebral hemorrhage, one third have an increase in the volume of the hematoma related to subsequent bleeding. We sought to determine whether recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) can reduce hematoma growth after intracerebral hemorrhage. methods We randomly assigned 399 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage diagnosed by CT within three hours after onset to receive placebo (96 patients) or 40 µg of rFVIIa per kilogram of body weight (108 patients), 80 µg per kilogram (92 patients), or 160 µg per kilogram (103 patients) within one hour after the baseline scan. The primary outcome measure was the percent change in the volume of the intracerebral hemorrhage at 24 hours. Clinical outcomes were assessed at 90 days. results Hematoma volume increased more in the placebo group than in the rFVIIa groups. The mean increase was 29 percent in the placebo group, as compared with 16 percent, 14 percent, and 11 percent in the groups given 40 µg, 80 µg, and 160 µg of rFVIIa per kilogram, respectively (P = 0.01 for the comparison of the three rFVIIa groups with the placebo group). Growth in the volume of intracerebral hemorrhage was reduced by 3.3 ml, 4.5 ml, and 5.8 ml in the three treatment groups, as compared with that in the placebo group (P = 0.01). Sixty-nine percent of placebo-treated patients died or were severely disabled (as defined by a modified Rankin Scale score of 4 to 6), as compared with 55 percent, 49 percent, and 54 percent of the patients who were given 40, 80, and 160 µg of rFVIIa, respectively (P=0.004 for the comparison of the three rFVIIa groups with the placebo group). Mortality at 90 days was 29 percent for patients who received placebo, as compared with 18 percent in the three rFVIIa groups combined (P=0.02). Serious thromboembolic adverse events, mainly myocardial or cerebral infarction, occurred in 7 percent of rFVIIa-treated patients, as compared with 2 percent of those given placebo (P=0.12). conclusions Treatment with rFVIIa within four hours after the onset of intracerebral hemorrhage limits the growth of the hematoma, reduces mortality, and improves functional outcomes at 90 days, despite a small increase in the frequency of thromboembolic adverse events.
A Companion to the Antebellum Presidents, 1837‐1861. Edited by Joel H. Silbey. Malden, MA: Wiley Blackwell, 2014. 483 pp.

A Companion to the Antebellum Presidents, 1837-1861. Edited by Joel H. Silbey. Malden, MA: Wiley Blackwell, 2014. 483 pp. The American presidency is no stranger to mediocrity. The quarter century prior to the Civil War mirrors the particular challenge of leadership in a nation splintering under the hammer blows of slavery and sectionalism. Of the eight men who occupied the White House between 1837 and 1861, none was elected to a second term. Undistinguished and lacking in charisma, only one--James K. Polk--has been considered by scholars as an effective chief executive. Even then, Young Hickory's reputation has been tarnished by charges of launching an immoral war against Mexico. More problematic has been the ineffectiveness of Franklin Pierce and James Buchanan in their handling of the tensions exploding in the 1850s. Against this backdrop, accomplished scholar Joel Silbey has assembled a stellar group of historians to reexamine the narrative of the era and to place those events in the context of the most recent historiography. The volume commences with four fine essays on the major themes of the period--politics, expansion, sectionalism, and foreign policy--authored by Silbey, Michael Morrison, Nicole Etcheson, and Jay Sexton. Sixteen detailed presidential case studies follow. Martin Van Buren's reputation does not improve. While M. Philip Lucas charts the Magician's transition from partisan leader to statesman commencing in 1828, the cold reality of Jonathan Atkins's essay reveals the New Yorker's failed term, dominated by the economic repercussions of the Panic of 1837. William Shade breathes new life into the legend surrounding William Henry Harrison, arguing that Old Tip was a substantial candidate who ran a serious and well-organized campaign in 1840. Ed Crapol constructs a balanced approach to the duel for power between Henry Clay and John Tyler. While giving Harry of the West due credit for his party leadership and domestic programs, Crapol reminds us of Tyler's energy and achievements in foreign affairs. The enigmatic Polk merits the attention of four chapters. M. J. Heale focuses on the Tennessean's "desperate mission" to restore republican government and to crush federalism. In advancing both his domestic and foreign policy agendas, a political price was paid, but "the bonds of the Democratic Party were grievously strained rather than broken" (p. 213). In his well-crafted discussion of domestic politics, veteran Polk scholar Paul Bergeron affirms the president's commitment to attacking the American system. …
Observations of a Working Class Family: Implications for Self-Regulated Learning Development

Guardians have been implicated in the development of children's academic self-regulation. In this case study, which involved naturalistic observations and interviews, the everyday practices of a working class family were considered in the context of self-regulated learning development. The family's practices, beliefs, dispositions and home structures were not aligned with conditions recognized as supporting self-regulated learning development. It is suggested that for the family to adapt or adjust home practices in a way that supports their children's self-regulation means adopting a different logic of parenting, valuing and promoting certain kinds of self-knowledge, forming different kinds of social networks, and mediating and controlling affects of occupational conditions. It is suggested that shifting home practices to teach academic self-regulation in the family's home is value-laden and reflects class-based narrowness.