cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Insights into the Genus Lithophyllum (Lithophylloideae, Corallinaceae, Corallinales) from Deepwater Rhodolith Beds Offshore the NW Gulf of Mexico

Hard bank rhodolith beds at 45–80 m depth offshore Louisiana in the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico harbor a diverse community of non-geniculate coralline algae spanning multiple lineages including both rhodolith-forming (biogenic) taxa and others encrusting autogenic rhodoliths. Identifying these members of the Corallinales to the correct genus and species is an ongoing process because many available names need to be validated by comparison to historical type specimens. A phylogenetic analysis of concatenated plastid ( psb A), nuclear (LSU rDNA), and mitochondrial (COI) DNA sequences of non-geniculate corallines belonging to the subfamily Lithophylloideae (Corallinaceae), including newly generated sequences from recently collected specimens dredged at Ewing and Sackett Banks following the April 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, reveals at least two distinct species of Lithophyllum sensu lato for the region. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed the presence of vegetative characters congruent with those for both Lithophyllum and Titanoderma . Lithophyllum is a newly reported genus for the northern Gulf of Mexico. The generic boundaries within the Lithophylloideae are addressed in light of possible evolutionary progenetic heterochrony that may have occurred within this subfamily.
Heterochromatic variants and their association with neoplasias. I. Chronic and acute leukemia

Abstract C-banding studies of the heteromorphism of chromosomes #1, #9, and #16 were performed in 120 leukemic patients: 56 with chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML), 45 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and 19 with acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL). No differences were found among patients and controls with regard to sex. Our data showed a significant increase of polymorphism in chromosome #1 in the three neoplastic groups; the heterochromatic variant preferentially involved 1qh−, whereas there were no significant differences in heteromorphism in chromosomes #9 and #16.
Geometry of clusters of strongly coagulated fluid drops and the occurrence of collapsed Plateau borders

Abstract A detailed geometric analysis is presented of stabilized clusters of strongly coagulated fluid drops in a liquid medium. These systems are characterized by a finite contact angle θ at the perimeter of each thin liquid film separating adjacent drops. When the number of drops in the cluster is at least three and θ > 30°, three such films meet along a line, the “collapsed linear Plateau border.” Two types or termination points of collapsed linear borders are defined: “Q-points” and “T-points.” A Q-point is the point of intersection of a collapsed linear Plateau border with three film perimeters. A T-point, or “collapsed tetrahedral Plateau border,” is the point where four collapsed linear borders meet at tetrahedral angles of 109.47°. Depending on the nature of its endpoints, a collapsed linear border can be classified as being of the QQ-, TT-, or QT-type. When 30° 35.26°, it can be of any of the above three types, depending on the number of drops in the cluster and the location of the border within the cluster. At a Q-point, the angle α between the collapsed Plateau border and each of the three film perimeters is given by cos α = cot θ/√3.
The mode of termination and temporal course of degeneration of cortical association pathways in the cerebellum of the cat

The Nauta-Laidlaw silver degeneration technique was used to study the mode of termination and temporal course of degeneration of cerebellar cortical association pathways in the cat. All associational pathways examined appeared to terminate identically in their respective folia of termination. Two specific cerebellar cortical areas were chosen for detailed discussion and illustration. In the vermis lobules (V and VI), fibers pass from one folium to the adjacent caudal two or three folia, and these pathways can be studied conveniently in the sagittal plane. Long connections extend from anterior lobe paravermal cortex (lobule V) to caudal hemispheral folia of the same side, and these terminations could be examined at a site some distance from the lesion. Projections of associational pathways displayed a rather strict localization, with terminal areas corresponding in size and location to the area of damaged cortex giving rise to the pathway. Terminal degeneration was found distributed at Purkinje cell levels and in basal portions of the molecular layer. Some of the degenerated fibers in the molecular layer showed relationships with Purkinje cell dendrites, suggesting that they might be climbing fibers. Early degenerative changes occurred at two days postoperatively. Maximal fine fiber degeneration occurred at eight days. Fragments of large degenerated fibers were stainable in terminal areas and in folial white matter for as long as 41 days postoperatively.
Exertional fatigue and cold exposure: mechanisms of hiker's hypothermia.

Participants in prolonged, physically demanding activities in cold weather are at risk of a condition known as “hiker's hypothermia”. During exposure to cold weather, the increased gradient favorin...
Contact Angle Hysteresis Characterization of Textured Super-Hydrophobic Surfaces

This paper presents the fabrication of rough super-hydrophobic surfaces, dynamic high-speed measurements of sliding angles of water droplets, and develops a mechanistic understanding of contact angle hysteresis - the major dissipative mechanism in droplet based microfluidic systems. We investigate texture-dependence of hysteresis, evaluate the current model, propose a modification, and observe that the two models - current and proposed - are useful bounds on hysteresis of the surface except in ultra- hydrophobic regime where observed hysteresis is significantly higher than predictions of either model.
Role of surrogate end points in the evaluation of drugs for heart failure.

Abstract To be of clinical value in the treatment of heart failure, a drug must permit patients either to feel better or to live longer, or both. Yet, because the assessment of both quality and quantity of life is difficult, many investigators have proposed using alternate measures (namely, surrogate end points) that may indicate the probable effect of a drag on symptoms or survival but are not direct measures of clinical benefit. Surrogate end points are usually physiologic variables that are known to be statistically associated and are believed to be pathophysiologically related to the clinical outcome. Although the adoption of such surrogate end points would dramatically facilitate the evaluation of new drugs, experience to date has shown that the effect of a drug on a surrogate end point is not a reliable predictor of the clinical utility of the drag, usually because the assumption that the end point is pathophysiologically related to the outcome proves to be invalid. Consequently, the evaluation of the effect of a drug on a surrogate end point provides us with a hypothesis rather than data about the possible effect of a drug on clinical events; such a hypothesis can be tested in controlled clinical trials that directly measure the clinical benefit of the therapeutic intervention. In the area of heart failure, no surrogate end point currently exists that can be used in lieu of the direct assessment of a drug on symptoms or survival, ideally in the context of a placebo-controlled trial.
Genetic linkage and bipolar affective disorder: progress and pitfalls

The history of linkage studies in bipolar affective disorder is a convoluted affair punctuated by upswings and setbacks, hope and skepticism. Advances in genomics and statistical techniques, and the availability of well-characterized clinical samples, have bolstered the search for disease genes, leading to a new crop of findings. Indeed, recent reports of putative loci on chromosomes 18, 21, X, 4, 6, 13 and 15 have rekindled a sense of optimism. The new findings are reviewed and scrutinized, with implications for future research.
A scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy study of the TiO2−x(110) surface

The surface structure of reduced TiO2−x(110) has been studied in ultrahigh-vacuum by scanning tunneling microscopy and tunneling spectroscopy. A variety of surface structure types with periodicities larger than the bulk TiO2 unit cell have been clearly resolved. These periodic structures, which have repeat distances ranging from 3.2 A to greater than 30 A, coexist with one another on the reduced surface and have domain sizes of < 1000 A. Tunneling spectra acquired from this surface show the bulk conduction band edge 0.5 eV above the Fermi level and a bandgap greater than 2.5 eV. These observations are compared to a surface structure model that assumes the presence of varying concentrations of bulk crystallographic shear plane defects that accommodate non-stoichiometry in this material.
Effects of isoprinosine and NPT 15392 on interleukin-2 (IL-2) production.

Abstract Two purine immunoenhancing drugs, isoprinosine and NPT 15392, were evaluated as inducers of IL-2 or enhancers of IL-2 induction by phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Both drugs were found to have significant enhancing activity on PHA induction of IL-2 by human lymphocytes over a wide range of concentrations. Alone they were unable to consistently induce IL-2 activity. NPT 15392 was able to enhance PHA-induced IL-2 production at 10–100 times lower concentrations than isoprinosine. The actions of these compounds to enhance IL-2 production may explain their effects on PHA-induced lymphocyte proliferation.
Simple small-polaron model for the hydrogen-concentration dependence of hydrogen diffusion in Nb

We have generalized simplified small polaron models for the tunneling of interstitials in solids to include interactions between the diffusing particles. This is applied to the calculation of the average hopping rate of hydrogen in Niobium as a function of hydrogen concentration for small concentrations, i.e. for an H/Nb ratio (c) of .06 or less. The hopping of a single H under the influence of nearby, stationary H’s was treated. The interactions between interstitials include a hard-core repulsion and a lattice-mediated strain interaction. The tunneling transfer integral was taken to depend on the displacements of nearby Nb atoms. Only tunneling via the ground vibrational level of the interstitials was treated. For c ≤ .06, the calculated increase in the hopping activation energy as a function of c was linear in c and comparable in magnitude with the experimental increase. Our simplified-model results show that the strain interaction between H’s in Nb is important for their diffusion and that this interaction needs to be included in whatever more elaborate diffusion models are developed.
Complementary and Alternative Interventions in Atopic Dermatitis

The burden of atopic diseases, including atopic dermatitis (AD), is significant and far-reaching. In addition to cost of care and therapies, it affects the quality of life for those affected as well as their caretakers. Complementary and alternative therapies are commonly used because of concerns about potential adverse effects of conventional therapies and frustration with the lack of response to prescribed medications, be it due to the severity of the AD or the lack of appropriate regular use. Despite the promising results reported with various herbal medicines and biologic products, the clinical efficacy of such alternative therapies remains to be determined. Physicians need to be educated about alternative therapies and discuss benefits and potential adverse effects or limitations with patients. A systematic approach and awareness of reputable and easily accessible resources are helpful in dealing with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The use of CAM interventions is common among individuals with AD. Epidemiologic data have been a motivating drive for better elucidation of the efficacy of CAM interventions for allergic disease. Herbal medicines and biologics for AD treatment and, more recently, prevention comprise a major area of clinical investigation. Potential mechanisms of therapeutic effect elucidated by animal models and human clinical studies implicate modulation of TH2-type allergic inflammation and induction of immune tolerance. Population-based research regarding the use of CAM for allergic diseases underscores the increasing challenge for care providers with respect to identifying CAM use and ensuring safe use of allopathic and complementary medicines in disease management.
Adjuvant radiation following radical prostatectomy: what are the known unknowns?

In this month’s issue of European Urology, Wiegel and colleagues present the 10-yr follow-up of the ARO 96-02 trial of adjuvant radiation therapy (ART) versus a wait-andsee (WS) approach [1]. This study of 388 men with pT3N0 prostate cancer observed a statistically significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS; includes biochemical recurrence, local or distant recurrence, or death from any cause) in the ART group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.51], with a low rate of late toxicity. ART did not exhibit an advantage with respect to metastases or overall survival, but the small number of events meant the study was underpowered for those end points at this point in follow-up. With this report, all three of the randomized trials of ART versus WS have now reported results of 10 yr of follow-up. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 22911 trial of 1005 men with pT2/R1 or pT3 disease also reported statistically significant improvement in PFS (as defined above) at 10.6 yr (HR: 0.49). No significant difference was observed for metastasis-free survival (MFS), overall survival (OS), or cancer-specific mortality (CSM). This is the only trial to have separately reported CSM outcomes [2]. The SWOG 8794 trial of 431 men with pT3N0 disease has the longest follow-up, at 12.6 yr. It is the only trial to have observed statistically significant improvements inMFS (they defined MFS as including distant failure or death from any cause; HR: 0.71) and OS (HR: 0.72) associated with ART [3]. Muchhas alreadybeenwritten about these three trials;more details can be found in the excellent review by Stephenson and colleagues [4]. With the latest report of the ARO 96-02 trial providing similar follow-up for all three trials, more questions about the application and clinical benefit of ART remain
Braids in classical dynamics.

Point masses moving in 2+1 dimensions draw out braids in space-time. If they move under the influence of some pairwise potential, what braid types are possible? By starting with fictional paths of the desired topology and ``relaxing'' them by minimizing the action, we explore the braid types of potentials of the form V\ensuremath{\propto}${\mathit{r}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}$ from \ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{\le}-2, where all braid types occur, to \ensuremath{\alpha}=2, where the system is integrable. We also discuss issues of symmetry and stability. We propose this kind of topological classification as a tool for extending the ``symbolic dynamics'' approach to many-body dynamics.
A Memorial Service for Families of Children who Died From Cancer and Blood Disorders

The grief of staff who work with dying children and the grief of family members after the death of a child has been widely documented. Interventions to facilitate grieving have been extensively developed for parents but less so for siblings and staff. This article describes one approach, a memorial service, for families and staff that has wide applicability for providing support after a death. The memorial service provides families and staff with a healing ritual of remembrance, a source of closure after the death, and a recognition of the relationships established between families and staff. The service particularly legitimizes the staff's grief experience. The organization, implementation, and evaluation of such a program is discussed.
Analysis of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression in human monocytes infected with Mycobacterium avium at a single cell level by ELISPOT assay

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases including infection with intracellular pathogens such as Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). In this study, we developed an ELISPOT assay for measurement of active TGF-beta1 produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy individuals in response to LPS or MAC. The frequency of TGF-beta1 producing cells was significantly (p<0.04) higher in response to LPS (10 microg/ml) as compared to unstimulated cells (n=4). Moreover, the frequency of TGF-beta1 producing cells was threefold higher in monocyte (MN)-enriched cell population than those in PBMC indicating that the source of TGF-beta1 producing cells in PBMC was MN. In addition, the frequency of TGF-beta1 producing cells in response to MAC (10:1, cfu:MN) was significantly higher (p<0.03) than unstimulated cells. However, the frequency of TGF-beta1 producing cells in response to MAC (10:1) was eight to ninefold lower than that by LPS (10 microg/ml). Moreover, there was a correlation between the level of total TGF-beta1 in 24-h culture supernatants and the number of TGF-beta1 producing cells upon MAC stimulation. TGF-beta1 ELISPOT-assay may be a sensitive and a powerful tool for detection of TGF-beta1 producing cells, and may be helpful in elucidation of the nature of TGF-beta1 production at sites of diseases.
Immunospecific identification and three-dimensional structure of a membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica

Abstract Antibodies, raised against affinity column-purified acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica, were used as a basis for immunospecific identification of the receptor in membrane fragments. Rabbit and goat anti-receptor antibodies were coupled directly or indirectly via goat anti-rabbit antibody to colloidal gold spheres or to ferritin. The labeled membranes were visualized by negative stain electron microscopy, and show that the receptor corresponds to the 85 A diameter rosette seen in membranes derived from electroplaques. Electron micrographs of immunospecifically labeled receptor, in the plane perpendicular to the membrane surface, confirm and extend our previous conclusions based on X-ray diffraction analysis, that the molecule extends above the extracellular membrane surface by approximately 55 A, and little on the cytoplasmic side. Calculated molecular volumes based on X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy indicate that the membrane receptor has a molecular weight in the range of 250,000 to 310,000, a range consistent with current estimates of detergent-solubilized monomer molecular weight.
The history of radio telescopes, 1945–1990

Forged by the development of radar during World War II, radio astronomy revolutionized astronomy during the decade after the war. A new universe was revealed, centered not on stars and planets, but on the gas between the stars, on explosive sources of unprecedented luminosity, and on hundreds of mysterious discrete sources with no optical identifications. Using “radio telescopes” that looked nothing like traditional (optical) telescopes, radio astronomers were a very different breed from traditional (optical) astronomers. This pathbreaking of radio astronomy also made it much easier for later “astronomies” and their “telescopes” (X-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, gamma-ray) to become integrated into astronomy after the launch of the space age in the 1960s. This paper traces the history of radio telescopes from 1945 through about 1990, from the era of converted small-sized, military radar antennas to that of large interferometric arrays connected by complex electronics and computers; from the era of strip-chart recordings measured by rulers to powerful computers and display graphics; from the era of individuals and small groups building their own equipment to that of Big Science, large collaborations and national observatories.
Does telomerase activity add to the value of fine needle aspirations in evaluating thyroid nodules

Abstract Background: Telomerase replaces DNA sequences that are lost with cell division. Increased activity has been documented in malignant cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) has a 90% sensitivity for diagnosis of papillary carcinomas, but a specificity of 52%. This often leads to unnecessary surgery. Methods: Telomeric repeat amplification protocol assays were performed on FNA specimens of thyroid nodules in 19 patients. These results were compared with the surgical pathology using chi-square analysis. Results: There were 5 malignant and 14 benign nodules. Telomerase activity was found in 3 of 5 malignant (60%) and 9 of 14 benign (64%): sensitivity was 60%, specificity was 36%. Conclusion: Telomerase assays did not add any additional information to FNA alone. Inflammatory changes associated with benign and malignant lesions can possess telomerase activity independent of the malignant state.
Filter paper sampling of whole blood and urine for the determination of D/L arabinitol ratios by mass spectrometry

Abstract The methodology described permits the determination of the ratios of the D and L enantiomers of arabinitol in a small dorp of venous (arm) or finger-puncture blood or of urine placed as a spot on conventional filter paper. Replicate analyses using samples from healthy subjects and patients with confirmed disseminated candidiasis gave results that are statistically indistinguishable from those obtained from serum or urine using technique previously developed by the authors. Replicate analyses (n = 8) on days 1, 3, 7, and 14, and on samples after roundtrip long distance airmail transportation revealed that the filter paper spots have storage stability for at least two weeks at room temperature and that samples can be safely transported. Advantages include the initiation of pediatric applications using finger or heel punctures, frequent samplings from adults using drops of blood from samples taken for unrelated routine tests, and the design of inter-institutional studies to evaluate the clinical utility of using D/L arabinitol ratios for the diagnosis and monitoring of disseminated candidiasis.
Brevican knockdown reduces late-stage glioma tumor aggressiveness

Growing evidence supports the important role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer biology. A defining aspect of the glioma TME is the unique composition and structure of its extracellular matrix (ECM), which enables tumor cells to overcome the inhibitory barriers of the adult central nervous system (CNS). In this way, the TME plays a role in glioma invasion and the cellular heterogeneity that distinguishes these tumors. Brain Enriched Hyaluronan Binding (BEHAB)/brevican (B/b), is a CNS-specific ECM constituent and is upregulated in the glioma TME. Previous studies have shown B/b exerts a pro-invasive function, suggesting it may represent a target to reduce glioma pathogenesis. Herein, we also provide evidence that B/b expression is enriched in the glioma initiating cell (GIC) niche. We demonstrate that B/b plays roles in the pathological progression, aggressiveness, and lethality of tumors derived from human GICs and traditional glioma cell lines. Interestingly, we found that B/b is not required to maintain the defining phenotypic properties of GICs and thereby acts primarily in late stages of glioma progression. This study suggests that the increased expression of B/b in the TME is a valuable therapeutic target for glioma.
High-resolution analysis of physiological amino acids and related compounds in ten-microliter samples of guinea pig perilymph by the use of high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A high-performance liquid chromatographic procedure has been developed for the detailed analysis of amino acids and related compounds in 10-μl samples of perilymph from the guinea pig cochlea (inner ear). The procedure employs an Aminco amino acid analyzer and combines the use of a single chromatographic column, lithium citrate buffers for elution, a change of column temperature, and fluorometric detection of o -phthaldialdehyde/2-mercaptoethanol adducts of primary amines. Sensitivity is about 0.2 pmol referenced to leucine. Fifty-four primary amine components are detectable in perilymph collected in relative silence. Twentynine compounds have been identified, and six are putative amino acid neurotransmitters. The present method provides new information about the chemical composition of perilymph and is suitable for the analysis of physiological fluids available only in volumes of several microliters.
The appearance of α, β and γ crystallins in an anophthalmic strain of mice

A certain percentage of congenitally anophthalmic mouse embryos have the ability to generate small lens vesicles that have previously been shown to produce alpha crystallin at 13-day gestation. Further immunohistological analysis of 13- and 15-day-gestation anophthalmia embryos indicates that beta crystallin is present in those 13-day embryos which have lens vesicles with lens-fiber formation. Also, 15-day embryos with lenses demonstrating fiber elongation can produce both beta and gamma crystallins. The conclusion is drawn that the genetic potential to produce at least three characteristic biochemical markers of normal lens differentiation is present in the anophthalmia mutant. The spatial distribution patterns of the crystallins in normal and anophthalmia embryos were similar. However, there appeared to be a transposition in the temporal appearance of beta and gamma crystallins in the anophthalmia mutant. Optic cups and associated lenses in 15-day anophthalmia specimens were much smaller than those in controls. The optic and lens rudiments in these anophthalmia embryos were fairly proportional in size, which indicates that some degree of allometric growth compensation had occurred during the course of development. This ability for differential growth compensation in the mouse eye appears to be restricted to the predifferentiative stages of eye formation.
Simple and Compelling Biomimetic Metal–Organic Framework Catalyst for the Degradation of Nerve Agent Simulants

Inspired by biology, in which a bimetallic hydroxide-bridged zinc(II)-containing enzyme is utilized to catalytically hydrolyze phosphate ester bonds, the utility of a zirconium(IV)-cluster-containing metal–organic framework as a catalyst for the methanolysis and hydrolysis of phosphate-based nerve agent simulants was examined. The combination of the strong Lewis-acidic ZrIV and bridging hydroxide anions led to ultrafast half-lives for these solvolysis reactions. This is especially remarkable considering that the actual catalyst loading was a mere 0.045 % as a result of the surface-only catalysis observed.
Physical Nature of Neutral Instability

Experience has established the fact that the neutral of a three-phase system may become subject to certain strange phenomena of instability under apparently normal conditions. The disturbances are of two distinct classes: (1) persistent shift or inversion of the neutral, resulting in unequal leg voltages; and, (2) persistent oscillation of the neutral (with equal effective voltage in all three legs) at approximately one-half, double, or triple frequency. While in the ultimate analysis saturation is at the basis of the phenomena, a more definite explanation is given as follows: 1. Neutral shift or inversion is a fundamental frequency phenomenon, and is due to the fact that the volt-ampere curve of the combination of an iron core reactor (transformer magnetizing current) in shunt with a suitable capacitor has one zone which is lagging and one which is leading. In a Y-Y bank of transformers, with suitable balanced line capacitances to neutral following a switching disturbance, one leg may act leading, the others lagging, and thus invert the neutral. 2. Oscillations of the neutral'tend to take place at its natural frequency, but since, due to inevitable losses, not all oscillations can persist, in course of the starting transient the oscillation is resolved to the nearest lower frequency which is able to draw energy from the circuit by approximating harmonic relationship to it. The even harmonics are accounted for by the persistence of residual in the core, whether left from previous excitation or brought about by the direct current component of starting transient.
Toxicity of a Biodegradable Microneedle Implant Loaded with Methotrexate as a Sustained Release Device in Normal Rabbit Eye: A Pilot Study

Abstract Purpose: Primary intraocular lymphoma is a term that refers to nonmetastatic malignant lymphoid neoplasia that arises primarily within the eye. Primary vitreo-retinal lymphoma (PVRL), a su...
Nickel and the metabolism of urea by Lemna paucicostata Hegelm. 6746

With urea as sole nitrogen source, the addition of 5×10-5 M nickel sulfate to axenic cultures of Lemna paucicostata 6746 approximately doubles the rate of vegetative growth. Under a standard light-dark schedule, Ni2+ changes the daily pattern of respiratory CO2 output on urea from one having a single daily peak to one with two daily peaks which resembles that on ammonium or nitrate as sole nitrogen source. It also increases CO2 output by as much as 3-fold on a fresh-weight basis. These data represent the first confirmation in an intact higher plant of proposals, based on enzymology and tissue culture responses, for a role of Ni2+ in urea metabolism. Further, they indicate the possible existence of two distinct pathways of urea utilization.
A modulating effect of beta-endorphin on pigs' coping strategies during transport

Abstract Pigs were selected at random from three genetic lines (homozygote halothane positive and negative, heterozygotes), and were transported twice. Before and after each transport, blood samples were taken from the jugular vein to measure plasma cortisol and beta-endorphin content. During each transport behaviour and heart rate of the pigs were measured. Descriptive statistics of behavioural, endocrinological and heart rate data provided no evidence for a predetermined idiosyncratic response pattern (i.e., active vs. passive) with respect to transport stress, nor an interaction from the halothane gene, nor an habituation effect. However, from the endocrinological point of view a potentiality of passive and active coping strategy (i.e., high vs. low basal plasma cortisol content) was observed before transport. But classification of pigs according to an active and passive coping strategy was unrepeatable during successive transports, when based on heart rate and plasma cortisol content measurements during successive transports. This was explained by a potential modulating effect of beta-endorphin on the relationship between cortisol and heart rate.
The impact of FADS genetic variants on ω6 polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism in African Americans

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a long-chain omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) synthesized from the precursor dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) that plays a vital role in immunity and inflammation. Variants in the Fatty Acid Desaturase (FADS) family of genes on chromosome 11q have been shown to play a role in PUFA metabolism in populations of European and Asian ancestry; no work has been done in populations of African ancestry to date. In this study, we report that African Americans have significantly higher circulating levels of plasma AA (p = 1.35 × 10-48) and lower DGLA levels (p = 9.80 × 10-11) than European Americans. Tests for association in N = 329 individuals across 80 nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Fatty Acid Desaturase (FADS) locus revealed significant association with AA, DGLA and the AA/DGLA ratio, a measure of enzymatic efficiency, in both racial groups (peak signal p = 2.85 × 10-16 in African Americans, 2.68 × 10-23 in European Americans). Ancestry-related differences were observed at an upstream marker previously associated with AA levels (rs174537), wherein, 79-82% of African Americans carry two copies of the G allele compared to only 42-45% of European Americans. Importantly, the allelic effect of the G allele, which is associated with enhanced conversion of DGLA to AA, on enzymatic efficiency was similar in both groups. We conclude that the impact of FADS genetic variants on PUFA metabolism, specifically AA levels, is likely more pronounced in African Americans due to the larger proportion of individuals carrying the genotype associated with increased FADS1 enzymatic conversion of DGLA to AA.
Modification of Turbulent Transport with Continuous Variation of Flow Shear in the Large Plasma Device

Continuous control over azimuthal flow and shear in the edge of the Large Plasma Device (LAPD) has been achieved using a biasable limiter which has allowed a careful study of the effect of flow shear on pressure-gradient-driven turbulence and transport in the LAPD. The LAPD rotates spontaneously in the ion diamagnetic direction; positive limiter bias first reduces, then minimizes (producing a near-zero shear state), and finally reverses the flow into the electron diamagnetic direction. Degradation of particle confinement is observed in the minimum shearing state and a reduction in the turbulent particle flux is observed with increasing shearing in both flow directions. Near-complete suppression of the turbulent particle flux is observed for shearing rates comparable to the turbulent autocorrelation rate measured in the minimum shear state. Turbulent flux suppression is dominated by amplitude reduction in low-frequency ($l10\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{kHz}$) density fluctuations. An increase in fluctuations for the highest shearing states is observed with the emergence of a coherent mode which does not lead to net particle transport. The variations of density fluctuations are fit well with power laws and compare favorably to simple models of shear suppression of transport.
Dose to the inferior rectum is strongly associated with patient reported bowel quality of life after radiation therapy for prostate cancer

Abstract Purpose To evaluate rectal dose and post-treatment patient-reported bowel quality of life (QOL) following radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Methods Patient-reported QOL was measured at baseline and 2-years via the expanded prostate cancer index composite (EPIC) for 90 patients. Linear regression modeling was performed using the baseline score for the QUANTEC normal tissue complication probability model and dose volume histogram (DVH) parameters for the whole and segmented rectum (superior, middle, and inferior). Results At 2-years the mean summary score declined from a baseline of 96.0–91.8. The median volume of rectum treated to ⩾70 Gy (V70) was 11.7% for the whole rectum and 7.0%, 24.4%, and 1.3% for the inferior, middle, and superior rectum, respectively. Mean dose to the whole and inferior rectum correlated with declines in bowel QOL while dose to the mid and superior rectum did not. Low (V25–V40), intermediate (V50–V60) and high (V70–V80) doses to the inferior rectum influenced bleeding, incontinence, urgency, and overall bowel problems. Only the highest dose (V80) to the mid-rectum correlated with rectal bleeding and overall bowel problems. Conclusions Segmental DVH analysis of the rectum reveals associations between bowel QOL and inferior rectal dose that could significantly influence radiation planning and prognostic models.
Modulation of hepatic protein kinase activity by indomethacin

Abstract We previously demonstrated that treatment with indomethacin in vivo significantly blunted the glucagon-induced glycemic response in the rat. This prostaglandin synthetase (cyclo-oxygenase) inhibitor also accentuated the evanescent effect of glucagon on hepatic glucose output in the intact, anesthetized rat. In this report, we present evidence that impairment of glucagon action in the rat liver by indomethacin is mediated through its inhibitory effect on both cAMP-dependent and cAMP-independent hepatic protein kinase. Indomethacin treatment did not have a measurable effect on any of the other components of the glucagon transducer system. Furthermore, infusion with glucagon for two hours that maintained plasma glucagon values at high physiological levels significantly reduced hepatic cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity without altering its Km. Glucagon infusion also down-regulated its own hepatic receptors and glucagon-stimulated cAMP production; prostaglandin E 1 -stimulated cAMP production was not affected. We concluded that prostaglandins may play a role in the regulation of hepatic protein kinases involved in the glucagon-stimulated glycogenolytic response and that glucagon-induced down-regulation extends at least to the hepatic protein kinases. However, a direct effect of indomethacin on protein kinase and the adenylate cyclase complex cannot be ruled out.
Comparison of the airway hyperreactivity produced by single and multiple antigen exposures in sensitized guinea pigs

Chronic airway hyperreactivity is a hallmark feature of asthma, but animal models of airway hyperreactivity often utilize a single antigen challenge. Therefore, we compared the airway hyperreactivity produced by single and multiple antigen challenges in ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs. Significant (2-fold) leftward shifts in dose-response curves for i.v. methacholine- or LTD4-induced bronchoconstriction in anesthetized and ventilated animals occurred 24 h following a single ovalbumin challenge. This nonspecific airway hyperreactivity was prevented by pretreatment with ketotifen or dexamethasone. However, airway hyperreactivity was no greater 24 h following the last of 3 daily antigen challenges than after 1 challenge and was absent 72 h following one antigen challenge. These results raise concern over the similarity of antigen-induced airway hyperreactivity in guinea pigs to the chronic airway hyperreactivity in asthmatics.
Institutions of Schooling, Systemic Prescriptions, and Emotional Discord: Toward Pedagogies of Relational Meaning

This paper argues by way of analogy that the psychological descriptors of masochist and sadist, a person who submits or dominates, respectively can aptly describe many aspects of the power relationships teachers and students experience within institutions of public education. Teachers operate in an often ethically contradictory position, torn by systemic expectations and how these expectations are often in discord concerning their benefit to the emotional and intellectual lives of the children put in their charge. Examined are aspects of the present educational context, both in terms of policy and in terms of practice, and the sociopsychological theories that explain this context and offer suggestions for its amelioration. Finally, the piece argues for a change in institutional culture based largely in expansion of the parameters in which students, teachers, and administrators have choices specifically pursuant to a love-ethic for interpersonal interaction (discussed in the latter part of the paper).
Precision of the radiochemical OH measurement method

Abstract Twenty-eight radiochemical 14 C tracer measurement of tropospheric hydroxyl radical (OH) concentrations were obtained at a rural site near Washington State University, Pullman, WA (117°W, 47°N). Diurnal OH concentration variations were observed for the five days between 9 August and 14 August 1990. These data made it possible to estimate the midday precision and detection limit of the radiochemical OH measurement method. Experiments performed at a peak O 3 photolysis rate J (O( 1 D)) of (3.0±0.2) × 10 −5 s −1 yielded a mean midday OH concentration of (5.6±0.1 (1 σ )) × 10 6 cm −3 . Other data put an upper bound of 16% on fluctuations of instrument sensitivity. Low-light or nighttime background OH concentrations were less than (2.6±2) × 10 5 cm −3 . A lower detection limit of 10 5 cm −3 was obtained when extra care was taken with the low-level 14 C counting procedure.
Mosque-Based Emotional Support Among Young Muslim Americans

Despite a growing literature on social support networks in religious settings (i.e., church-based social support), little is known about mosque-based support among Muslims. This study investigates the demographic and religious behavior correlates of mosque-based social support among a multi-racial and ethnic sample of 231 young Muslims from southeast Michigan. Several dimensions of mosque-based support are examined including receiving emotional support, giving emotional support, anticipated emotional support and negative interactions with members of one’s mosque. Results indicated that women both received and anticipated receiving greater support than did men. Higher educational attainment was associated with receiving and giving less support compared to those with the lowest level of educational attainment. Moreover, highly educated members reported fewer negative interactions than less educated members. Mosque attendance and level of congregational involvement positively predicted receiving, giving, and anticipated emotional support from congregants, but was unrelated to negative interactions. Overall, the study results converge with previously established correlates of church-based emotional support.
Teachers as Researchers: developing an inquiry ethic

Abstract This article explores the process through which teachers go as they engage in teacher research that attempts to answer ‘burning questions’ about their practice. It reports on the experiences of 45 in-service teachers enrolled in an MA in Education program as they develop an inquiry ethic while engaging in research projects that require them to collect and analyze data, interact with instructors and peers, engage in dialogue surrounding inquiry, and draw conclusions from their data collection and analysis during semester-long course. Based on data collected over a two-year period, the authors attempt to pose a framework for the development of such an ethic, positing the dimensions of the stance that teacher researchers demonstrate as they begin to view themselves as part of the ongoing dialogue between theory and practice. It further describes the nature of each dimension as well as the products of the teacher research projects.
Orthopedic pitfalls in the ED: Scaphoid fracture ☆ ☆☆ ★

Abstract Wrist injuries are frequently encountered in the emergency department. When a patient presents with such an injury, the possibility of scaphoid fracture must be at the top of the differential for the emergency practitioner. Unfortunately, these injuries can be missed on first presentation, as they are frequently radiographically occult. When left unrecognized and untreated, these injuries lead to a high incidence of long-term functional disability and chronic pain. The emergency physician needs to be vigilant for scaphoid fracture and be aggressive in both its diagnosis and treatment to avoid this practice pitfall. This review examines the clinical presentation, diagnostic techniques, and management options applicable to the emergency physician. (Am J Emerg Med 2001;19:310-316. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company)
Cardiac preconditioning does not require myocardial stunning.

Abstract Efforts to minimize the deleterious effects of intraoperative myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury have been primarily directed at optimizing cardioplegic solutions and altering reperfusion conditions. Classically, myocardial I/R has been associated with cardiac mechanical dysfunction ("stunning"). Recently, we reported an α 1 -adrenergic receptor-mediated mechanism of paradoxical myocardial protection against I/R insult induced by a prior episode of transient ischemia, a phenomenon known as "ischemic preconditioning". Myocardial stunning resulting from transient ischemia has previously been associated with ischemic preconditioning, prompting intuitively negative bias against the clinical application of this phenomenon. The purpose of this study was to determine whether transient ischemia of insufficient duration to cause prolonged mechanical dysfunction (stunning) can induce favorable cardiac preconditioning. Isolated-perfused rat hearts were allowed to equilibrate for 8 minutes and were then subjected to either 2 minutes of global, normothermic transient ischemia or 2 minutes of 50 μmol/L phenylephrine infusion. A stabilization period of perfusion lasting 10 minutes after the termination of transient ischemia or phenylephrine infusion was followed by a standard I/R challenge (20 minutes of global, normothermic ischemia; 40 minutes of reperfusion). Ventricular function (measured as developed pressure in millimeters of mercury) recovered rapidly after transient ischemia such that no impairment was present before the subsequent standard I/R challenge. Phenylephrine treatment was associated with no residual inotropy before I/R challenge. Control hearts were subjected only to the standard I/R challenge after an initial 20-minute equilibration period. After reperfusion control hearts exhibited 54.4% recovery of initial left ventricular developed pressure. Transient ischemia- and phenylephrine-preconditioned hearts recovered 84.4% ( p p
Participation in the organization: An ethical analysis from the papal social tradition

How one structures an organization is not only important from the perspective of productivity and efficiency, but primarily how it affects the moral formation of those who are employed in that organization. Organizational structures whether in the manufacturing, service or non-profit sector have moral dimensions that cannot be escaped. Papal social tradition has been concerned about the moral formation of all workers within the organization. This tradition has maintained that an essential component to a humane organizational structure is participation of those involved in the organization, and consequently that participation must be understood primarily in terms of the formation of employees. This article explores the papal social tradition's understanding of participation and examines its significance in today's organizational environment, particularly in reference to work-teams.
Introduction to Topics in Organizational Systems and Technology Minitrack

This minitrack is special. It is set up to provide a forum for papers in the Organizational Systems and Technology track that do not "fit" exactly in a specific other minitrack. We often serve as an incubator for new ideas.
Small-Mammal Population Dynamics and Habitat Use on Bumpkin Island in the Boston Harbor

Abstract We performed short-interval mark—recapture trapping on small mammals on Bumpkin Island in Boston Harbor in 2008, 2009, and 2011 in an attempt to record patterns of species distribution, population dynamics, and habitat use. The only species captured during these intervals were native Peromyscus leucopus (White-footed Mouse) and Microtus pennsylvanicus (Meadow Vole). Both mice and voles were trapped in 2008 and 2009, while only mice were trapped in 2011. Animal densities varied by vegetation type and by year. The variation in the densities between years may be attributed to a number of factors including food availability and the sporadic presence of predators, a unique characteristic of the some of the harbor islands.
Efficient segmentation of spatio-temporal data from simulations

Detecting and tracking objects in spatio-temporal datasets is an active research area with applications in many domains. A common approach is to segment the 2D frames in order to separate the objects of interest from the background, then estimate the motion of the objects and track them over time. Most existing algorithms assume that the objects to be tracked are rigid. In many scientific simulations, however, the objects of interest evolve over time and thus pose additional challenges for the segmentation and tracking tasks. We investigate efficient segmentation methods in the context of scientific simulation data. Instead of segmenting each frame separately, we propose an incremental approach which incorporates the segmentation result from the previous time frame when segmenting the data at the current time frame. We start with the simple K-means method, then we study more complicated segmentation techniques based on Markov random fields. We compare the incremental methods to the corresponding sequential ones both in terms of the quality of the results, as well as computational complexity.