cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of circulating immune complexes in a subpopulation of patients with membranous glomerulonephropathy

Abstract To investigate the relationship of circulating immune complexes to membranous nephropathy, complexes were assayed by the 125 I-C1q-binding assay and the Raji cell radioimmune assay in 18 patients with this disorder. Immune complexes were detected by both assays in the sera of five patients who had a concurrent renal vein thrombosis. Immunoabsorption studies established the specificity of the C1q-reactive material as immune complexes. The generation of immune complexes by the thrombotic episode was excluded by control observations in patients with other types of venous thrombosis. It is suggested that analogous to animal models, patients with membranous nephropathy and concurrent renal vein thrombosis may represent a subpopulation with a more active phase of the disease resulting in the generation of higher (and detectable) levels of serum immune complexes.
MicroSearch: human presence detection in vehicles

ENSCO has been at the forefront in the development of a novel technology for human presence detection in vehicles, including automobiles, vans, trucks and semi-tractor trailers. This technology, by its very nature, is quite practical and less costly than other methods because it is based on a fundamental physiological characteristic common to all humans. Based on the ballistocardiogram force it measures the vehicle vibration produced by the individual's heart. The force produced by the heartbeats of humans will move vehicles, even large semi-tractor trailers, enough to be easily detectable by small seismic sensors. MicroSearch finds stowaways in a matter of seconds. No need to unload the vehicle, no need for manual searches.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Temperature regulation and metabolism in developing white-necked ravens.

Abstract 1. Nestlings less than six days old were ectothermic at ambient temperatures between 15 and 35°C. Shivering was absent and panting sporadic and awkward. 2. At 7–14 days of age, shivering and panting responses were evident but body temperature was labile. 3. At 20 and 30°C the rate of oxygen consumption increased with age to a peak of 3.5 ml/g per hr then decreased to around 2 ml/g per hr in the 400g nestlings. At 40°C the larger nestlings had a higher V ˙ O 2 than the younger birds. 4. Evaporative water loss (EWL) at Ta of 20–30°C increased from approx 1 mg/g per hr in two-day-old ravens to 3–6 mg/g per hr in 11–20-day-old birds. At 40 and 45°C, EWL increased from approx 5 mg/g per hr in young nestlings to 10–34 mg/per hr in birds more than 11 days old. 5. Differentials in V ˙ O 2 between 20 and 30°C show that the transition from ectothermy to endothermy occurred rapidly and completely in 12–14-day-old ravens. 6. At the onset of physiological thermoregulation the V ˙ O 2 of nestling birds was nearly twice that of a hypothetical adult. 7. The dry heat transfer coefficient decreased as weight increased indicating that young birds dissipate more heat passively than do older birds. Older birds dissipate heat predominantly by evaporative cooling.
High contrast ratio and long lifetime polymer electrochromic devices (ECDs)

The preparation and characterization of a type of ECD which was based on a cathodic EC polymer film, Poly [3, 3-dimethyl-3, 4-dihydro-2H-thieno [3, 4-b][1, 4] dioxepine] (PProDOT-Me2) is reported. A typical device was constructed by sandwiching a gel electrolyte between a PProDOT-Me2 EC film deposited on Indium Tin oxide (ITO) coated glass and a counter electrode which was also ITO glass coated by a Vanadium oxide (V2O5) thin film. The ECD has been characterized. Device contrast ratio, measured as E%T , was equal to 60%, and ranged from 2% to 62% between the colored and bleached state measured at 580 nm. A lifetime of over 100,000 cycles between the fully oxidized and fully reduced state has been achieved with only 6% change in the transmittance. The switching speed of a 2.5cm x 2.5cm ECD could be reached in 1 second between the bleached and colored state. The device also has a long open circuit memory. It can remain in the bleached or colored state without being energized for 30 days, and the change in transmittance is less than 6% in colored state. The cyclic voltammetry method was used to detect the moisture content in the gel electrolyte. ECDs of various dimensions were also prepared, 2.5cm x 2.5cm, 7.5cm x 7.5cm, 15cm x 15cm and 30cm x 30cm. The largest scale EC polymer device achieved is 30cm x 30cm. Low sheet resistance ITO glass and a thin-film silver deposition frame were applied to overcome the electric potential drop across the ITO glass surface.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Boundary element analysis of cracks normal to bimaterial interfaces

Abstract The singularity of stress at the tip of a crack, which is normal to the interface of two different materials, varies depending on the material properties of the two materials. A subdomain boundary element technique is used to solve the interface crack problems. A shape function, containing the same order of singularity as that in the interface cracks, is used for the interpolation of tractions, and a correct order of shape function is also used for displacements. Some numerical examples show that the present analyses yield good solutions for these interface crack problems.
Geometrically nonlinear NURBS isogeometric finite element analysis of laminated composite plates

Abstract This research present the development of geometrically nonlinear NURBS isogeometric finite element analysis of laminated composite plates. First-order, shear-deformable laminate composite plate theory is utilized in deriving the governing equations using a variational formulation. Geometric nonlinearity is accounted for in Von-Karman sense. A family of NURBS elements are constructed from refinement processes and validated using various examples. k -refined NURBS elements are developed to study thin plates. Isotropic, orthotropic and laminated composite plates are studied for various boundary conditions, length to thickness ratios and ply-angles. Computed center deflection is found to be in an excellent agreement with the literature. For thin plate analysis, linear and k -refined quadratic NURBS element is found to remedy the shear locking problem. k -refined quadratic NURBS element provide stabilized response to distorted, coarse meshes without increasing the order of the polynomial, owing to the increased smoothness of solution space.
Language development and emergent literacy in preschool

To promote school readiness, preschool and Head Start teachers are incorporating more emergent literacy activities into their curriculum. This article argues that emergent literacy is subordinate to oral language development, rather than language development being subordinate to emergent literacy. Literature on components of emergent literacy is reviewed and a framework for a preschool curriculum that promotes oral language development and emergent literacy is presented. The article concludes with the recommendation that phonologic sensitivity and letter knowledge be taught in developmentally appropriate ways within the context of a languagerich preschool environment that specifically targets vocabulary enrichment.
Quantum effects in the F+H2→HF+H reaction. Accurate 3D calculations with a realistic potential energy surface

Abstract We report accurate benchmark 3D coupled channel calculations for total angular momentum J =0 for the reaction F+H 2 →HF+H using a realistic potential energy surface. The adiabatic basis functions are generated using the discrete variable representation method. The resulting reaction probabilities show what appear to be strong quantum resonance features as well as rapid changes in final rotational state distributions.
Anti-K12 in the serum of two brothers: inheritance of the K:-12 phenotype.

Abstract A 46 year-old Caucasian male was admitted to the hospital because of bleeding from his GI tract. Pretransfusion tests established that his serum contained an antibody to a high-incidence antigen. One unit of red cells from his only compatible sibling and three units of incompatible red cells were then transfused during the next 1 1/2 days without increase in body temperature or other adverse signs. His direct antiglobulin test became positive but his hemoglobin level continued to rise steadily. Anti-K12 was identified in his serum; it was strongly reactive against red blood cells of common Kell phenotypes, weakly reactive against Kp (a+b−), K:−11, K:−13, Mc Leod phenotype, and Genegative cells and non-reactive with K 0 and K:−12 cells. Low-titered anti-K12 was also found in the serum of his K:−12 sibling. Since the parents were more closely related than second cousins and the mother typed as K:12, recessive inheritance is presumed.
Locating the source of topological error in reconstructed 3D models

Although range scanning technology has offered great improvements to digital model creation in recent years, it has also introduced some new concerns. Specifically, recent work shows that topological errors such as tiny handles can significantly lower the overall quality of range-scanned models for down-stream applications (such as simplification and parameterization). In this paper we present our investigation into the source of this topological error in the range scanning process, and our methods to alleviate the error. We concentrated our investigation of the scanning process on: (1) signal noise or calibration error in the laser scanner (resulting in bad data points) and (2) error during the model reconstruction phase. We found that by modifying the surface reconstruction phase of the range scanning process, we were able to reduce the amount of topological noise in the resulting 3D model by up to 60 percent.
SOPROCARE - 450 nm wavelength detection tool for microbial plaque and gingival inflammation: a clinical study

Gingivitis due to microbial plaque and calculus can lead over time if left untreated to advanced periodontal disease with non-physiological pocket formation. Removal of microbial plaque in the gingivitis stage typically achieves gingival health. The SOPROCARE camera system emits blue light at 450 nm wavelength using three blue diodes. The 450 nm wavelength is located in the non-ionizing, visible spectral wavelength region and thus is not dangerous. It is assumed that using the SOPROCARE camera in perio-mode inflamed gingiva can easily be observed and inflammation can be scored due to fluorescence from porphyrins in blood. The assumption is also that illumination of microbial plaque with blue light induces fluorescence due to the bacteria and porphyrin content of the plaque and thus can help to make microbial plaque and calculus visible. Aim of the study with 55 subjects was to evaluate the ability of the SOPROCARE fluorescence camera system to detect, visualize and allow scoring of microbial plaque in comparison to the Turesky modification of the Quigley and Hein plaque index. A second goal was to detect and score gingival inflammation and correlated the findings to the Silness and Loe gingival inflammation index. The study showed that scoring of microbial plaque as well as gingival inflammation levels similar to the established Turesky modified Quigley Hein index and the Silness and Loe gingival inflammation index can easily be done using the SOPROCARE fluorescence system in periomode. Linear regression fits between the different clinical indices and SOPROCARE scores in fluorescence perio-mode revealed the system’s capacity for effective discrimination between scores.
Effects of forced uncoupling protein 1 expression in 3T3-L1 cells on mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism

Obesity-related increase in body fat mass is a risk factor for many diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Controlling adiposity by targeted modulation of adipocyte enzymes could offer an attractive alternative to current dietary approaches. Brown adipose tissue, which is present in rodents but not in adult humans, expresses the mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) that promotes cellular energy dissipation as heat. Here, we report on the direct metabolic effects of forced UCP1 expression in white adipocytes derived from a murine (3T3-L1) preadipocyte cell line. After stable integration, the ucp1 gene product was continuously expressed during differentiation and reduced the total lipid accumulation by approximately 30% without affecting other adipocyte markers, such as cytosolic glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and leptin production. The expression of UCP1 also decreased glycerol output and increased glucose uptake, lactate output, and the sensitivity of cellular ATP content to nutrient removal. However, oxygen consumption and beta-oxidation were minimally affected. Together, our results suggest that the reduction in intracellular lipid by constitutive expression of UCP1 reflects a downregulation of fat synthesis rather than an upregulation of fatty acid oxidation.
Influence of particle shape on size measured by the light-blockage technique

Abstract Five alumina particles, each of different shape, were independently and repeatedly dropped through the light beam in a Hiac-Royco™ particle counter, which deduces the size of the particle from the amount of light blocked. The sizes of those particles were also measured by use of a Quantimet™ image analyzer, which determines size (diameter) from the area projected by the particle as it lies ‘flat’. As expected, when the diameter of a flake-like particle is measured, the former instrument shows more variability in results than does the latter. Aside from the flake-like particles, close correlations are shown between the two different ways of measuring particle size. And, from one instrument to the other, a correlation is shown between increased variability of size measurements with increased departure of the particle from the shape of a sphere.
Chemical ionization mass spectrum of peroxyacetylnitrate

The chemical ionization mass spectrum of peroxyacetylnitrate, a major component of photochemical smog highly toxic to man and plants, was obtained using both methane and isobutane as reagent gas. The spectrum contains a [M + H]+ ion at m/e 122, intense fragment ions at m/e 43 [CH,CO]+ and m/e 46 [NO2]+, and less intense ions at m/e 61 [CH,ONO]+, m/e 77 [CH30NOz]+ and m/e 88 [+OCCH2ONO] formed by internal rearrangements. These results confirm the commonly accepted structure for peroxyacetylnitrate, CH3(CO)OONO2.
Nanolithography using molecular optics

We explore the possibility of using an intense laser beam to focus a molecular beam onto a surface to create nanowires. We show that with a grazing angle of incidence between the laser and molecular beams, it is possible to use available technology to create wires 100 μm long with a 100 W continuous wave laser. Narrower and longer features could be created with higher power lasers. This technique is very general, and may be used to deposit any atom or molecule onto an arbitrary substrate, so long as the particles may be entrained in a molecular beam and have an adequate sticking probability. The effects of spherical and chromatic aberration and laser mode structure on the focusing properties of the molecular lens are examined in detail, and design criteria for building a practical device are discussed.
Optical response of nonlinear multilayer structures: Bilayers and superlattices.

We discuss the normal-incidence reflectivity and transmissivity of a multilayer structure which contains N films, each of which has a dielectric constant dependent on light intensity, through a term proportional to the local intensity. We show the method introduced in a previous paper for the isolated film [Wei Chen and D. L. Mills, Phys. Rev. B 35, 524 (1987)] may be generalized to the present case, retaining the feature that a numerical solution may be achieved by means of a search for a single real number bounded between zero and unity. Explicit calculations for a bilayer show that such a structure exhibits bistability with nonreciprocal character: The threshold for the onset of bistability with light incident from the left may differ substantially from that with light incident from the right. We also apply the theory to finite superlattices. For frequencies close to the edge of a stop gap of the structure, for rather low power, we find the system may switch from a state where the transmissivity is unity to a state where it is exponentially small. Solitons play a key role as mediators of the switching in extended superlattices.
Verification and Application of a New Adsorption Model for Fractal Surfaces

A recently proposed isotherm model for adsorption on fractal surfaces is fitted to a wide range of isotherm data obtained from the literature. All curve fitting attempts produced good fits and the model parameters obtained are shown to be physically reasonable. Also, all significant model parametrs can be obtained from a single isotherm. As expected, when surface roughness is taken into account, the specific surface area determined from monolayer volume may be significantly higher than that obtained using the standard smooth surface isotherm models.
Aggression und Gewalt

Psychische Phanomene - Uber Gewalt und Aggression spricht man im Zusammenhang mit Pflege nicht so gern. Dabei handelt es sich nicht nur um ein wichtiges, sondern vor allem um ein komplexes Thema. Denn Aggression und Gewalt kommen in sehr unterschiedlichen Formen in unserem Pflegealltag vor.
Prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin I2 modulation of superoxide production by human neutrophils

15(S)-15-methyl-prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin I2 rapidly and reversibly inhibit formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine induced superoxide production by human neutrophils. In contrast, 15(S)-15-methyl-prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin I2 did not alter the rate or the total amount of superoxide production by human neutrophils stimulated with either phorbol myristate acetate or arachidonic acid. These data suggest that the production of superoxide anion by human neutrophils may be mediated by at least two mechanisms, one regulated by prostaglandins and intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels and a second independent of prostaglandin modulation.
A halite‐siderite‐anhydrite‐chlorapatite assemblage in Nakhla: Mineralogical evidence for evaporites on Mars

— We report the results of a study of a halite-siderite-anhydrite-chlorapatite assemblage in the Shergotty-Nakhla-Chassigny (SNC) Martian meteorite Nakhla. These minerals are found associated with each other in interstitial areas, with halite often being adjacent to or enclosing siderite. We suggest the halite and other minerals are Martian in origin because (1) the conditions of fall preclude significant amounts of terrestrial contamination or weathering having taken place; (2) textures indicate that the minerals within this assemblage crystallized at the same stage as some silicate and oxide minerals within the Nakhla parent; and (3) the association with siderite, which previous studies have shown has C and O-isotopic compositions incompatible with an origin on the Earth. Siderite has the range of compositions: CaCO3, 0.1–5.7; MgCO3, 2.0–40.9; FeCO3, 23.2–87.0; MnCO3, 1.0–39.9 mol%. There are two compositional groupings: high-MnCO3 (≥30 mol%) and low-MnCO3/high-FeCO3, with a gap identified between the two. This may be a miscibility gap or, alternatively, the two compositional groupings may mark separate generations of carbonate. We have not found any textural evidence for the latter explanation, but acceptance of the presence of a miscibility gap would require independent work on Fe-Mn carbonates to verify its existence. Trace element abundances have been determined by ion microprobe analysis on three siderite and one anhydrite grains. Siderite has light rare earth elements (2.2–7.3 × C1) greater than heavy rare earth elements (0.32–0.79 × C1) without Ce or Eu anomalies, and the anhydrite has a similar pattern. These abundances reflect the source composition rather than partitioning or complexing controls. They are not typical of hydrothermal signatures which generally do not have such smooth REE abundance patterns. The nature of the mineral assemblage suggests that its source rocks on Mars were evaporites. These may be common in the craters and flood plains of the Martian southern highlands. Two models are suggested in this paper to explain the incorporation of evaporitic material into the Nakhla igneous parent. It may have happened as a low-temperature process (<200 °C) by crystallisation from an aqueous fluid. An origin at low temperature is compatible with the available experimental data on siderite stability. Alternatively, we suggest evaporitic material may have been incorporated into the Nakhla parent while melt was still present and crystallized ∼800 °C. The latter model can more readily explain the trace element abundances and also the siderite textures that imply intergrowth with residual interstitial melt. Both high- and low-temperature models are consistent with the presence of evaporite sediments on Mars.
Reversible and irreversible passivation of a La–Ni–Al alloy

This paper seeks to explore some of the effects of passivating a LaNi{sub 4.25}Al{sub 0.75} sample by air oxidation under controlled conditions. Passivation of this metal hydride alloy seems to have two distinct regimes. The first occurs with air oxidation at 80 C and 20 C. It is characterized by complete reversibility upon hydrogen readsorption, although said readsorption is hindered substantially at room temperature, requiring the material to be heated to produce the reactivation. The second regime is illustrated by 130 C air oxidation and is characterized by irreversible loss of hydrogen absorption capacity. This passivation does not hinder hydrogen readsorption into the remaining hydride material.
Homodimeric architecture of a CIC-type chloride ion channel

The recent discovery of the ClC-family of anion-conducting channel proteins has led to an appreciation of the central roles played by chloride ion channels in cellular functions, such as electrical behaviour of muscle and nerve and epithelial solute transport. Little is known, however, about molecular architecture or sequence-function relationships in these membrane proteins. In the single case of ClC-0, a voltage-gated 'muscle-type' chloride channel, the functional complex is known to be a homo-oligomer of a polypeptide of Mr approximately 90,000, with no associated 'helper' subunits. The subunit stoichiometry of ClC-type channels is controversial, however, with either dimeric or tetrameric association suggested by different indirect experiments. Before a coherent molecular view of this new class of ion channels can emerge, the fundamental question of subunit composition must first be settled. We have examined hybrid ClC-0 channels constructed from functionally tagged subunits, and report here that ClC-0 is a homodimer containing two chloride-conduction pores.
Developmentally regulated role for Ras-GRFs in coupling NMDA glutamate receptors to Ras, Erk and CREB

p140 Ras‐GRF1 and p130 Ras‐GRF2 constitute a family of calcium/calmodulin‐regulated guanine–nucleotide exchange factors that activate the Ras GTPases. Studies on mice lacking these exchange factors revealed that both p140 Ras‐GRF1 and p130 Ras‐GRF2 couple NMDA glutamate receptors (NMDARs) to the activation of the Ras/Erk signaling cascade and to the maintenance of CREB transcription factor activity in cortical neurons of adult mice. Consistent with this function for Ras‐GRFs and the known neuroprotective effect of CREB activity, ischemia‐induced CREB activation is reduced in the brains of adult Ras‐GRF knockout mice and neuronal damage is enhanced. Interestingly, in cortical neurons of neonatal animals NMDARs signal through Sos rather than Ras‐GRF exchange factors, implying that Ras‐GRFs endow NMDARs with functions unique to mature neurons.
Sensitivity of wind waves to hurricane wind characteristics

Abstract In this study, the influence of the spatial and temporal variability of hurricane winds, storm translation speed, intensity, and ambient wind field on surface wind waves are investigated by using a third-generation wave model (Simulating WAves Nearshore, or SWAN). The results show that the asymmetric structure of wind-induced wave field is sensitive not only to the asymmetric structure of the hurricane wind field, but also to the variations in the storm translation speed and intensity. The significant wave height (SWH) in the front-right quadrant of the storm rises as storm translation speed increases until it reaches a critical value, then the SWH drops. The opposite occurs in the rear-left quadrant. The total contribution of the hurricane translation speed to the asymmetric structure of the wave field also depends on the intensity of the hurricane. As the intensity of the hurricane increases, the relative significance of the influence of the translation speed on the asymmetric structure of the wave field decreases. Most parametric hurricane wind models can only model symmetric hurricanes and do not include background winds. However, actual hurricanes in nature are not only asymmetric but also imbedded in background winds. Thus, to more properly model hurricane-induced wave field, it is important to consider storm asymmetry, translation speed, intensity, as well as background winds.
Photosensitizing properties of 2,4-dichlorobenzoic acid and chlorinated biphenyl carboxylic acids, potentially key components of chromophoric dissolved organic matter

2,4-Dichlorobenzoic acid and a suite of models of chlorinated biphenyl carboxylic acids were found to be efficient sensitizers of the reactive oxygen species singlet oxygen (1O2).
Honeywell's experience with screening plastic encapsulated microcircuit

Honeywell's Air Transport Division has historically screened plastic encapsulated microcircuits (PEM's) for 160 h at 125/spl deg/C, followed by a tri-temp screen at 40/spl deg/C, room temperature, and 125/spl deg/C, in accordance with the traditional view that this would increase the reliability of the end product due to reduced infant mortality. Recently, Honeywell has been collecting and evaluating field reliability and screening fallout data to reach a data driven conclusion as to the necessity of doing part screening, particularly burn-in. This used both internally generated data and semiconductor supplier data. This data shows clearly that for parts from a "high quality" semiconductor manufacturer, burn-in not only adds no value, it will actually increase the field failure rate of the devices built with these burned-in parts.
Stimulus generalization of habituation in spinal interneurons

Abstract Stimulus generalization of habituation of spinal interneurons was studied in acute spinal cat. All of the 18 interneurons examined showed habituation, and generalization (i.e., transfer) of habituation for two independent inputs-skin and cut cutaneous nerve. Bidirectional tests of generalization were completed on seven type H interneurons; all showed clear bidirectional generalization of habituation from skin to nerve and nerve to skin. The data provide support for the view that some form of synaptic depression is the mechanism underlying habituation.
Supersonic wing-body center of pressure with finite afterbodies

Closed-form formulas for the effects of finite afterbodies on the longitudinal center of pressure location in the presence of a wing at supersonic speeds are presented, along with solutions for the case of negative afterbodies. A double integral is developed for the case of subsonic and supersonic leading edges and no afterbody and full afterbody. Attention is also given to the full/infinite body case, noting that a proportional variation of the pitching moment with the lift is found.
AML: clustering genes to predict outcome

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of hematopoietic malignancies with diverse genetic abnormalities and phenotypes. Currently, treatment decisions are based on the French-American-British (FAB) classification scheme, which uses largely morphologic characteristics, as well as
Bipartite Ca2+-Binding Motif in C2 Domains of Synaptotagmin and Protein Kinase C

C 2 domains are found in many proteins involved in membrane traffic or signal transduction. Although C 2 domains are thought to bind calcium ions, the structural basis for calcium binding is unclear. Analysis of calcium binding to C 2 domains of synaptotagmin I and protein kinase C-β by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed a bipartite calcium-binding motif that involves the coordination of two calcium ions by five aspartate residues located on two separate loops. Sequence comparisons indicated that this may be a widely used calcium-binding motif, designated here as the C 2 motif.
A comparison of artificial defoliation techniques using canola (Brassica napus)

We conducted two experiments that investigated how the method and location of artificial defoliation influenced growth, reproduction, and allocation in canola, Brassica napus. In one experiment, 0%, 25%, or 50% of leaf area was removed by cutting circular holes at three possible locations: concentrated at either the base of leaves or at their tips, or dispersed throughout leaf blades. Plants fully compensated for such damage; reproduction and allocation were unaffected by either defoliation intensity or wound location. In a second experiment, we again initiated three intensities of defoliation: non-damaged plants served as controls, while others had 25% or 50% of their leaf areas removed. The method of removal in the second experiment consisted of cutting either multiple, similar-sized, circular holes or single, contiguous patches of a leaf blade. At the highest defoliation intensity reproductive output and allocation were significantly less in plants treated with the former method than the latter, even though an equivalent initial amount of leaf area was removed in both treatments. We conclude that simulated herbivory studies must account for not only how much of the plant is damaged, but also the pattern of leaf damage itself, since both factors contribute to a plant’s physiological and ecological responses to grazing.
Age-related decline in brain white matter anisotropy measured with spatially corrected echo-planar diffusion tensor imaging.

Echo planar (EP) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) permits in vivo identification of the orientation and coherence of brain white matter tracts but suffers from field inhomogeneity-induced geometric distortion. To reduce spatial distortion, polynomial warping corrections were applied and the effects tested on measures of fractional anisotropy (FA) in the genu and splenium of corpus callosum. Implementation entailed spatially warping EP images obtained without diffusion weighting (b = 0) to long-echo T(2)-weighted fast spin echo images, collected for anatomical delineation, tissue segmentation, and coregistration with the diffusion images. Using the optimal warping procedure (third-order polynomial), the effects of age on FA and a quantitative measure of intervoxel coherence (C) in the genu, splenium, centrum semiovale, and frontal and parietal pericallosal white matter were examined in 31 healthy men (23-76 years). FA declined significantly with age in all regions except the splenium, whereas intervoxel coherence positively correlated with age in the genu. Magn Reson Med 44:259-268, 2000.
The Design and Application of an FM/AM Temperature Telemetering System for Intact, Unrestrained Ruminants

The system contains up to 11 channels, each consisting of a transmitter and receiver. An input scanner is used to time share a counter and printer among the channels. Any two channels may be selected for analog recording. All of the data acquisition equipment is commercially available.
A YEAST ESTROGEN SCREEN FOR EXAMINING THE RELATIVE EXPOSURE OF CELLS TO NATURAL AND XENOESTROGENS

Xenoestrogens, such as o,p'-DDT and octyl phenol (OP), have been associated with reproductive abnormalities in various wildlife species. Xenoestrogens mimic the natural estrogen 17 beta-estradiol and compete for binding to the estrogen receptor. Even though the affinity of o,p'-DDT and OP for the estrogen receptor is approximately 1000-fold lower than 17 beta-estradiol, the actions of xenoestrogens could be enhanced if their bioavailability in serum were greater than 17 beta-estradiol. To test this hypothesis, the yeast estrogen screen (YES) was created by expressing human estrogen receptor (hER) and two estrogen response elements (ERE) linked to the lacZ gene. The beta-galactosidase activity of the YES system was significantly increased after treatment with 17 beta-estradiol or the xenoestrogens diethylstilbestrol (DES), o,p'-DDT, and OP but not with vehicle, antiestrogen ICI 164,384, dexamethasone, or testosterone. To determine whether serum proteins affected the bioavailability of natural estrogens compared to xenoestrogens, albumin, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), or charcoal-stripped serum were added to the YES system and beta-galactosidase activity assayed. Albumin and SHBG decreased beta-galactosidase activity in the presence of estradiol to a greater extent than DES, o,p'-DDT, and OP. Human and alligator charcoal-stripped serum were also effective at selectively reducing beta-galactosidase activity in the presence of estradiol compared to xenoestrogens. Human serum was more effective than alligator serum in reducing beta-galactosidase activity in the presence of xenoestrogens, indicating that serum may serve as a biomarker for sensitivity to xenoestrogens. Selective binding of 17 beta-estradiol by proteins in serum indicates that certain xenoestrogens may exert greater estrogenicity than originally predicted. The estrogenic potency of a compound involves its binding affinity, bioavailability in serum, and persistence in the environment. Our data demonstrate the utility of the YES system for identifying and characterizing environmental estrogens.
Wetland policymaking in the U.S. Congress from 1789 to 1995.

Congressional policymaking has a significant impact on the management of wetlands in the United States. Both the congressional committees and witnesses who participate in hearings play significant roles in helping define wetland policy. This research examines congressional 240 hearings and 1569 witnesses who testified from 1789 to 1995 on wetlands. Based on key issues from witnesses and the committees who set the agenda, the findings show that three distinct eras exist in wetland policymaking in Congress. Era I (1789–1945) was characterized by a dominant monopoly of agricultural and development issues in congressional policymaking. Agricultural committees dominated in framing the debate by controlling the hearings and legislative discussion of issues during this time period. A significant break-up of these dominant agricultural issues occurred in Era II from 1946–1965 with the early beginning of public attention to environmental issues and the start of scientific investigation into wetlands. However, since Era III, which began in 1966, wetland policymaking in Congress has been highly conflictual, with no single committee or witness dominating. The growth of wetland science and continued public interest in wetlands presents a challenge to the dominant agricultural and development interests that once controlled congressional policymaking. Unlike in Era I, wetland monopoly that controls the issue. Wetland policy debates no longer focus solely on agricultural concerns but have expanded and been re-defined to include issues such as leisure, environmental protection, private property, and economics. Chi Square tests and a regression analysis demonstrate the strong relationship among hearings, venues, and witnesses. A major conclusion drawn from the study is that congressional wetland policymaking is a more open and democratic process than in earlier eras.
Half-life of 239Np☆

The best value for the half life of neptanium-239 was determined to be 2.359 plus or minus 0.010 days. (C.J.G.)
Sequence of the Bacillus subtilis glutamine synthetase gene region

Abstract The nucleotide sequence of the glutamine synthetase (GS) region of Bacillus subtilis has been determined and found to contain several unique features. An open reading frame (ORF) upstream of the GS structural gene is part of the same operon as GS and is involved in regulation. Two downstream ORFs are separated from glnA by an apparent Rho-independent termination site. One of the downstream ORFs encodes a very hydrophobic polypeptide and contains its own potential RNA polymerase and ribosome-binding sites. The derived amino acid (aa) sequence of B. subtilis GS is similar to that of several other prokaryotes, especially to the GS of Clostridium acetobutylicum. The B. subtilis and C. acetobutylicum enzymes differ from the others in the lack of a stretch of about 25 aa as well as the presence of extra cysteine residues in a region known to contain regulatory as well as catalytic mutations. The region around the tyrosine residue that is adenylylated in GS from many species is fairly similar in the B. subtilis GS despite its lack of adenylylation.
Is surgical resident comfort level associated with experience

Background The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has placed great emphasis on residents learning to identify their training needs and to develop learning strategies to address these needs. In surgery, residents can play an active role in identifying training needs through self-assessment of their procedural skills. Our study contributes to the growing body of literature regarding practice-based learning and improvement by attempting to determine if surgery resident experience is associated with comfort level and perceived training needs. Methods Twenty-five general surgery residents completed a surgical experience survey, which asked them to indicate the range of times they performed a procedure, their comfort level in performing the procedure, and the quality of training they felt they received. Residents were given a survey with cases appropriate for their postgraduate year. A Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to evaluate the trends between comfort level and experience, and training needs and experience. A P value of 0.05 was considered statistical significance in all analyses. Results Resident comfort level demonstrated a positive trend compared with case volume both in the self-reported survey and ACGME case log ( P values P value = 0.05). Perceived training needs and experience were also associated ( P value Conclusion Our study demonstrates that residents are able to assess their comfort level and training needs based on both actual and perceived experience. The procedural survey has been a useful tool for resident self-assessment in that residents are able to play a more active role in their education by developing appropriate learning plans.
Fuel-mediated teratogenesis: Symmetric growth retardation in the rat fetus at term after a circumscribed exposure to D-mannose during organogenesis

Abstract We previously infused the d -glucose epimer d -mannose into pregnant rats to deliver a brief metabolic insult to the early postimplantation conceptus. This insult caused developmental anomalies and growth retardation that were apparent in the embryos 2 days later. We now report the long-range effects on intrauterine development of such a circumscribed metabolic insult during organogenesis. Ten pregnant animals were infused with d -mannose for 12 hours during early neurulation (day 9.5 to 10 of development). Ten control animals were infused with equimolar d -glucose during this same time interval. Mannose infusions produced maternal plasma mananose concentrations in the embryotoxic range; glucose infusions caused only slight and transient hyperglycemia. Fetuses were removed at term and examined for evidence of developmental anomalies and growth retardation. None of 137 fetuses from the mannose group or 138 fetuses from the glucose group exhibited gross anomalies. However, an excess of resorbed conceptions in the mannose group (21 versus six in the glucose group; p
Pulmonary-locomotory interactions in exercising dogs and horses

In exercising quadrupeds, limb movement is often coupled with breathing frequency. This finding has lead some investigators to conclude that locomotory forces, associated with foot plant, abdominal visceral displacements or lumbo-sacral flexion, are the primary determinants of airflow generation. Analysis of respiratory muscle electrical activation (EMG) and contraction profiles in chronically instrumented dogs and horses, along with measurements of esophageal pressure (Pes) changes and limb movements, provide evidence that each breath during the exercise hyperpnea is determined by respiratory neuromuscular events. Specifically: (1) Phasic diaphragmatic EMG and tidal shortening are always synchronous with decreases in Pes; (2) decrements in Pes are always associated with inspiratory flow generation; and (3) strict phase coupling between breathing and stride frequency is not obligatory. Thus, although locomotory-associated forces may minimally assist with flow generation, they are not the primary determinants of breathing during exercise.
Constraints on the lithospheric structure of Venus from mechanical models and tectonic surface features

The evidence for the extensional or compressional origins of some prominent Venusian surface features disclosed by radar images is discussed. Using simple models, the hypothesis that the observed length scales (10-20 km and 100-300 km) of deformations are controlled by dominant wavelengths arising from unstable compression or extension of the Venus lithosphere is tested. The results show that the existence of tectonic features that exhibit both length scales can be explained if, at the time of deformation, the lithosphere consisted of a crust that was relatively strong near the surface and weak at its base, and an upper mantle that was stronger than or nearly comparable in strength to the upper crust.
MODTRAN4 version 2: radiative transfer modeling

MODTRAN4, version 2, will soon be released by the U.S. Air Force Geophysics Laboratory; it is an extension of the MODTRAN4, v1, atmospheric transmission, radiance and flux model developed jointly by the Air Force Research Laboratory / Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL / VS) and Spectral Sciences, Inc. The primary accuracy improvements in MODTRAN4 remain those previously published: (1) the multiple scattering correlated-k approach to describe the statistically expected transmittance properties for each spectral bin and atmospheric layer, and (2) the Beer-Lambert formulation that improves the treatment of path inhomogeneities. Version 2 code enhancements are expected to include: *pressure-dependent atmospheric profile input, as an auxiliary where the hydrostatic equation is integrated explicitly to compute the altitudes, *CFC cross-sections with band model parameters derived from pseudo lines, *additional pressure-induced absorption features from O2, and *a new 5 cm-1 band model option. Prior code enhancements include the incorporation of solar azimuth dependence in the DISORT-based multiple scattering model, the introduction of surface BRDF (Bi-directional Radiance Distribution Functions) models and a 15 cm-1 band model for improved computational speed. Last year's changes to the HITRAN database, relevant to the 0.94 and 1.13 micrometers bands of water vapor, have been maintained in the MODTRAN4,v2 databases.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Ontogeny of the skeleton of Spea bombifrons (anura: Pelobatidae)

The developing skeleton of a pelobatid frog, Spea bombifrons, is described based on a series of 81 cleared-and-stained tadpoles and juveniles. Most limb and limb-girdle elements commence ossification premetamorphically, along with the parasphenoid, frontoparietals, exoccipitals, and vertebral column, during Gosner Stage 36. The chondrocranium undergoes dramatic restructuring at the beginning of metamorphosis (ca. Stage 40); and the nasal cartilages, prootics, premaxillae, nasals, maxillae, septomaxillae, and ischium appear. Near the end of metamorphosis (ca. Stage 44), the branchial arches are resorbed, the hyoid plate and quadrate form, and the angulosplenials, vomers, squamosals, dentaries, and pterygoids ossify. After metamorphosis (Stage 46), the laryngeal cartilages, sternum, omosternum, and plectral apparatus chondrify; and the carpals, tarsals, sphenethmoid, posteromedial hyoid processes, mentomeckelian bones, quadrates, columellae, and opercula ossify. The development of the fused sacrococcygeal articulation in S. bombifrons is described and compared to the more widespread bicondylar articulation. The presumed palatine bone and transverse processes of the coccyx are discussed, as are several seemingly paedomorphic skeletal features of Spea. Comparison with the sequence and timing of ossification in other anurans reveals that ossification of the skull and vertebral column occurs later in S. bombifrons than in other anurans; nonetheless, many aspects of the ossification sequence seem to be shared by a surprisingly wide range of anuran taxa.
Characterization of the opiate receptor in the guinea-pig ileal mucosa

Several opioid peptides and narcotic drugs reduced transepithelial potential difference (PD) and short circuit current (Isc) in guinea-pig ileal mucosa measured in vitro in Ussing chambers. [D-Ala 2 ,D-Leu 5 ]enkephalin was the most potent peptide tested. Enkephalin analogues with altered C-terminal amino acids were less potent, as were s-endorphin and dermorphin. Etorphine produced potent effects whereas morphine and SKF 10,047 were inactive. Ethylketazocine produced a biphasic dose-response curve. When added by themselves diprenorphine and naloxone produced small increases in Isc. This effect was not seen when Cl − and HCO 3 − in the Ringer were replaced by SO 4 2− . Diprenorphine and naloxone were able to shift the dose response curves for all agonists to the right, with the exception of that for ethylketazocine. Diprenorphine was a more potent antagonist than naloxone. SKF 10,047 also acted as a pure antagonist. Morphine and ethylketazocine had no antagonist effects. It is concluded that the opiate receptor in the guinea-pig ileal mucosa is similar to a δ-opiate receptor as defined by ligand binding studies, but that some differences also exist.
In vitro metabolic activation of chemical mutagens. II. The relationships among mutagen formation, metabolism and carcinogenicity for dimethylnitrosamine and diethylnitrosamine in the livers, kidneys and lungs of BALB/cJ, C57BL/6J and RF/J mice.

Abstract The metabolic activation of dimethylnitrosamine (DMNA) and diethylnitrosamine (DENA) to mutagenic intermediates was studied using an in vitro genetic assay which measured the relative concentration and rate of formation of the active intermediates. Microsomal preparations from the livers, lungs and kidneys of BALB/cJ, C57BL/6J and RF/J male mice were compared for their ability to activate the two carcinogens to mutagens. It was demonstrated that quantitative differences in activation could be detected between organs of the three strains and that different organs have characteristic activation kinetics. Activation kinetics for microsomal metabolism of DMNA by liver, lung and kidney tissues of male and female C57BL/6J mice were also compared. Except for the female kidney preparations which appeared to lack the ability to activate DMNA and DENA, the activation properties for the male and female organs were quite similar. The results from this investigation tend to support the hypothesis that a single activated metabolite of DMNA is responsible for both its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties.