cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trans-synaptic and retrograde axonal spread of Lewy pathology following pre-formed fibril injection in an in vivo A53T alpha-synuclein mouse model of synucleinopathy

It is necessary to develop an understanding of the specific mechanisms involved in alpha-synuclein aggregation and propagation to develop disease modifying therapies for age-related synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. To adequately address this question, we developed a new transgenic mouse model of synucleinopathy that expresses human A53T SynGFP under control of the mouse prion protein promoter. Our characterization of this mouse line demonstrates that it exhibits several distinct advantages over other, currently available, mouse models. This new model allows rigorous study of the initial location of Lewy pathology formation and propagation in the living brain, and strongly suggests that aggregation begins in axonal structures with retrograde propagation to the cell body. This model also shows expeditious development of alpha-synuclein pathology following induction with small, in vitro-generated alpha-synuclein pre-formed fibrils (PFFs), as well as accelerated cell death of inclusion-bearing cells. Using this model, we found that aggregated alpha-synuclein somatic inclusions developed first in neurons, but later showed a second wave of inclusion formation in astrocytes. Interestingly, astrocytes appear to survive much longer after inclusion formation than their neuronal counterparts. This model also allowed careful study of peripheral-to-central spread of Lewy pathology after PFF injection into the hind limb musculature. Our results clearly show evidence of progressive, retrograde trans-synaptic spread of Lewy pathology through known neuroanatomically connected pathways in the motor system. As such, we have developed a promising tool to understand the biology of neurodegeneration associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation and to discover new treatments capable of altering the neurodegenerative disease course of synucleinopathies.
Low-mass AGNs and their relation to the fundamental plane of black hole accretion

We put active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with low-mass black holes on the fundamental plane of black hole accretion—the plane that relates X-ray emission, radio emission, and mass of an accreting black hole—to test whether or not the relation is universal for both stellar-mass and supermassive black holes. We use new Chandra X-ray and Very Large Array radio observations of a sample of black holes with masses less than 10{sup 6.3} M {sub ☉}, which have the best leverage for determining whether supermassive black holes and stellar-mass black holes belong on the same plane. Our results suggest that the two different classes of black holes both belong on the same relation. These results allow us to conclude that the fundamental plane is suitable for use in estimating supermassive black hole masses smaller than ∼10{sup 7} M {sub ☉}, in testing for intermediate-mass black holes, and in estimating masses at high accretion rates.
Abstract P748: Transcriptome Profiling of the Neural Stem Cell Niche and the Effect of Exercise in Restoring Neurogenesis in Type II Diabetic Mice

Introduction: Previously we found that mice with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) exhibited an accelerated age-associated decline in neurogenesis during baseline and after ischemic stroke compared to age-mat...
Effects of pre-freezing blanching procedures on the physicochemical properties and microbial quality of frozen sugar kelp

Global demand for seaweed is increasing, resulting in the rapid growth of the seaweed industry. To sustain and enhance the industry (seaweed growers and processors), it is essential to establish and optimize post-harvest food processing practices to extend the shelf life of the fresh, edible product. Blanching and freezing were applied in this study to offer longer-term storage to enable the distribution of sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima), farm-raised in Maine, USA. The objectives were to evaluate blanching, specifically the impacts of blanching method (direct immersion or vacuum packaged), temperature (80 or 100 °C) and time (5 or 30 s), kelp form (whole blade or shredded), and the effects of frozen storage on food product qualities including color, texture, drip loss, mineral content, total phenolic content, and the native microflora of sugar kelp after thawing. The fresh brown kelp developed a vivid green color immediately after blanching, especially with higher blanching temperature and longer blanching time. Drip loss was higher in blades than in shredded slaw, and vacuum packaged blanching produced higher moisture content, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. Results substantiate the importance of the blanching method, temperature, and time on frozen kelp quality. Blanching prior to freezing resulted in relatively higher product quality than unblanched frozen kelp despite some losses in hardness and color. Frozen storage had minimal to no impact on texture, aerobic plate count, and psychrotrophic microorganisms. Higher temperature, longer time, and vacuum packaged blanching is suggested to extend the marketable shelf life of sugar kelp to at least 6 months at − 20 °C.
Effects of Chronic Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol During Adolescence on Adult Repeated Acquisition and Performance Behavior and CB1 Receptor Expression in Male and Female Rats

There is evidence that marijuana use during adolescence can result in long-term learning deficits, and that these deficits may occur in a sex-specific manner. To examine these effects further, male...
Chapter 5.3 An Overview of the Geology of the Barberton Greenstone Belt and Vicinity: Implications for Early Crustal Development

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an overview of the geology of the Barberton Greenstone belt and vicinity. Rocks in the 3.55 to 3.22 Ga Barberton Granite Greenstone Terrain (BGGT), South Africa and Swaziland, represent one of the oldest, well-preserved pieces of continental crust on the Earth. Together with similar rocks of nearly identical ages in the Pil-bara Craton of Western Australia, rocks of the BGGT have provided most of the direct geologic evidence on the nature and evolution of the pre-3.0 Ga Earth, its crust, surface environment, ocean, atmosphere, and biota. The BGB includes volcanic, sedimentary, and shallow intrusive rocks ranging in age from >3547 to
Effect of Prophage W on the Propagation of Bacteriophages T2 and T4

Studies have been undertaken to determine whether the temperate phage omega present in Escherichia coli strain W is responsible for the inability of this strain to act as a host for T2 and T4. E. coli WS, cured of phage omega, was sensitive to T2 and T4. Lysogenation of E. coli C and WS with phage omega resulted in loss of ability to plate T2 and T4. However, E. coli K-12 lysogens still served as hosts for the T -even phage. Two of three WS lysogens studied resembled strain W at the biochemical level. They converted about 30% of infecting T2 deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) to acid-soluble fragments and limited macromolecular synthesis to a few minutes after infection. The third lysogen did not degrade phage DNA, and nucleic acid and protein synthesis continued for some time, although no phage production occurred. It is concluded that phage omega plays a role in the restriction of virulent phage but that it is not the only factor involved. Since acid solubilization was not observed in all cases of phage omega-mediated restriction of T -even phage, a hypothesis for the restriction has been proposed which is based on an alteration in the cell envelope after lysogenation with phage omega.
Intraoperative phosphorus-32 brachytherapy plaque for multiply recurrent high-risk epidural neuroblastoma

Achieving local control is a crucial component in the management of neuroblastoma, but this may be complicated in the setting of prior radiation treatment, especially when the therapeutic target is in proximity to critical structures such as the spinal cord. The authors describe a pediatric patient with multiply recurrent neuroblastoma and prior high-dose radiation therapy to the spine who presented with progressive epidural disease. The patient was managed with resection and intraoperative high-dose-rate brachytherapy using a phosphorus-32 (32P) plaque previously developed for the treatment of brain and spine lesions.
Inheritance of lysozyme deficiency in rabbits

The phenotypes of 273 offspring of 56 matings of various genotypes of lysozyme-deficient and normal New Zealand white rabbits were analyzed. It was determined that lysozyme deficiency of rabbits is inherited as an autosomal recessive with complete penetrance. The symbol ld is suggested for the gene for lysozyme deficiency. Further studies on the nature of the condition revealed that the lysozyme deficiency was not due to a lysozyme that was cold labile, or to a lysozyme that was so tightly bound it was unavailable for enzymatic assay, or to a lysozyme with a variant pH optimum. It was demonstrated, however, that the pH profile of the lysozyme remaining in the ld/ld rabbits was different from that found in normal rabbits.
Blogs of Information: How Gender Cues and Individual Motivations Influence Perceptions of Credibility

This study examines how gender cues influence perceptions of credibility of informational blogs. Using 2 experiments for data collection, this study manipulated the gender descriptors of a Weblog authors and had participants rate the overall perceived credibility of 1 of 3 blog posts. Male authors were deemed more credible than female authors, and main effects were found for information seekers, who found the blogs more credible than noninformation seekers. Implications are discussed.
Discerning nature's mechanism for making complex biocomposite crystals

Abstract Marine organisms have a unique ability to produce complex composite structures at ambient temperature and pressure using inorganic materials found in nature such as calcium carbonate and organic material (e.g. proteins and polysaccharides) produced at the cellular level. Examples of such organisms range from molluscs with complex mineral shells [J. Aizenberg, G. Lambert, L. Addadi, S. Weiner, Adv. Mater. 8 (1996) 222; S. Albeck, S. Weiner, L. Addadi, Chem. Euro. J. 2 (1996) 278] to single-celled algae with ornate mineral scales [R.N. Pienaar, in: A. Winter, W.G. Siesser (Eds.), Coccolithophores, Cambridge University Press, New York, 1994, p. 13]. Understanding the basic process of scale or shell formation is intrinsic to mimicking nature's biofabrication scheme. We isolated and fractionated the organic material from the scales of the coccolithophore algae, Pleurochrysis carterae . We analyzed by atomic force microscopy the effects that the extracted organic material has on a growing calcite crystal in situ.
Development of a sophisticated sub-micro fusion splicer for FTTP applications

The installation of Japanese FTTP (fiber to the premise) networks often includes mechanical splices and optical fiber connectors to connect the drop cable to a premise or to connect an indoor cable within a premise. However, fusion splices are still the preferred method of connecting fiber at locations away from the premise. These remote locations include a variety of splicing environments such as aerial splicing that demand equipment portability and versatility. For these reasons, an increasing number of customers require an easy to use, smaller, and lighter splicer with a full set of features. To meet these customer requirements, the highest priority when we developed our new fusion splicer was that it would be the smallest, lightest, and most versatile in the industry.
Mathematics and Music, by David Wright

Mathematics and Music, by David Wright, American Mathematical Society, AMS Mathematical World Series, 2009, 161 pages, US $35.00 (paperback), ISBN 978-0-8218-4873-9. Genuine interdisciplinary work ...
Film as Explicador for Hypertext

A few ideas from film theory, most notably Eisenstein's concept of montage, can improve students' understanding of hypertexts and lessen their resistance to open-ended, nonlinear narratives. These structural characteristics, so frustrating to many new readers of hypertext, can also be found in popular and experimental films. In particular, Godfrey Reggio's (1983) documentary Koyaanisqatsi provides a good starting point for merging hypertext and film theory. Koyaanisqatsi not only broke new ground for documentary film; its structure also resembles Landow's model for an axial hypertext. At the same time, techniques pioneered by Landow, Joyce, Guyer, and others involved in creating and critiquing hypertext can be used to examine film. Having students look closely at Koyaanisqatsi's composition allows them to become amateur cinematographers, who now possess software for breaking a film down and examining its composition, montage, transitions, subliminal messages, and motifs – a process that may then be applied to hypertext.
Transmural left ventricular mechanics underlying torsional recoil during relaxation

Early relaxation in the cardiac cycle is characterized by rapid torsional recoil of the left ventricular (LV) wall. To elucidate the contribution of the transmural arrangement of the myofiber to re...
Novel mechanism of regulation of Tomato bushy stunt virus replication by cellular WW-domain proteins

Replication of (+)RNA viruses depends on several co-opted host proteins but is also under the control of cell-intrinsic restriction factors (CIRFs). By using tombusviruses, small model viruses of plants, we dissect the mechanism of inhibition of viral replication by cellular WW-domain-containing proteins, which act as CIRFs. By using fusion proteins between the WW domain and the p33 replication protein, we show that the WW domain inhibits the ability of p33 to bind to the viral RNA and to other p33 and p92 replication proteins leading to inhibition of viral replication in yeast and in a cell extract. Overexpression of WW-domain protein in yeast also leads to reduction of several co-opted host factors in the viral replicase complex (VRC). These host proteins, such as eEF1A, Cdc34 E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme, and ESCRT proteins (Bro1p and Vps4p), are known to be involved in VRC assembly. Simultaneous coexpression of proviral cellular factors with WW-domain protein partly neutralizes the inhibitory effect of the WW-domain protein. We propose that cellular WW-domain proteins act as CIRFs and also as regulators of tombusvirus replication by inhibiting the assembly of new membrane-bound VRCs at the late stage of infection. We suggest that tombusviruses could sense the status of the infected cells via the availability of cellular susceptibility factors versus WW-domain proteins for binding to p33 replication protein that ultimately controls the formation of new VRCs. This regulatory mechanism might explain how tombusviruses could adjust the efficiency of RNA replication to the limiting resources of the host cells during infections. IMPORTANCE Replication of positive-stranded RNA viruses, which are major pathogens of plants, animals, and humans, is inhibited by several cell-intrinsic restriction factors (CIRFs) in infected cells. We define here the inhibitory roles of the cellular Rsp5 ubiquitin ligase and its WW domain in plant-infecting tombusvirus replication in yeast cells and in vitro using purified components. The WW domain of Rsp5 binds to the viral RNA-binding sites of p33 and p92 replication proteins and blocks the ability of these viral proteins to use the viral RNA for replication. The WW domain also interferes with the interaction (oligomerization) of p33 and p92 that is needed for the assembly of the viral replicase. Moreover, WW domain also inhibits the subversion of several cellular proteins into the viral replicase, which otherwise play proviral roles in replication. Altogether, Rsp5 is a CIRF against a tombusvirus, and it possibly has a regulatory function during viral replication in infected cells.
Long time behaviour of an infinite particle system

The long time behaviour of the semi-infinite Toda lattice is deduced from a set of identities for the squared eigenfunctions of the Toda flow.
3He sources for D-3He fusion power

Terrestrial resources of 3He are too limited to support a significant D-3He power program. In the present paper, two other possible near-term 3He sources are briefly reviewed: breeding and lunar mining. Two prime approaches to breeding are considered, namely, semicatalyzed D-breeder/D-3He satellite systems and plants operating on the DD-3He cycle. Lunar mining is viewed as a possible alternative to breeding for near-term terrestrial plants, but a major contributor to long-term uses of fusion power for space exploration.
Iconography of Icosahedra. Calculations of Metallic Energies and Relative Stabilities of Stereoisomers of Binary Icosahedral Clusters

The first part of this paper provides a complete iconography of all possible stereoisomers of a binary icosahedron (a total of 96 for a noncentered AnB12-n (n = 0−12) and 192 for a centered AnB13-n...
Consumer Response to Information that Presents a Range of Possible Performance Levels for a New Product: The Case of Solar Water Heaters

This research examined how consumers respond to product information that presents a range of possible performance levels. Hypotheses were tested by the use of mail and telephone surveys administered to a national sample of 511 homeowners. The particular product investigated was solar water heaters. The results indicate that the respondents (1) were less likely to change their prior beliefs toward the financial viability of solar water heaters, and (2) placed more emphasis on the importance of financial risk when they were presented with a range of possible financial consequences associated with solar systems. On balance, the provision of this information did not increase or decrease the average intention of the respondents to purchase solar water heaters. The public policy implications of the study findings are discussed.
THE EFFECT OF COENZYME Q0 ON POTASSIUM TRANSPORT IN THE EHRLICH ASCITES-TUMOR CELL.

Abstract Coenzyme Q 0 will inhibit the sulfhydryl enzymes and electron transport in isolated beef-heart mitochondria and renal Na + raebsorption when administered to dogs. To determine whether coenzyme Q 0 ihibits ion transport through its effect on ATP content, the compound was tested on the K + transport system of teh ascites-tumor cell. This cell has both respiratory and glycolytic pathways for ATP production. 1. 1. Coenzyme Q 0 at 2·10 −5 to 1·10 −4 M stimulated respiration within the first 10 sec by 36 ± 6.3% (S.E.), followed after 5 min by inhibition of 64.5 ± 1.4%. 2. 2. K + influx was inhibited within 10 min, reaching 63.5 ± 3.7% inhibition by 40 min. There was a net loss of K + and gain of Na + . 3. 3. Cell ATP and K + influx were linearly related, with a drop of 1 μmole/h influx for every 5.4-μmoles fall in cell ATP. The ability of glucose to reverse inhibition of fluxes was contingent on restoration of ATP content. Therefore, one mechanism for coenzyme Q 0 inhibition of fluxes derives from its influence on ATP content.
Diatomic Molecules According to the Wave Mechanics. II. Vibrational Levels

An exact solution is obtained for the Schroedinger equation representing the motions of the nuclei in a diatomic molecule, when the potential energy function is assumed to be of a form similar to those required by Heitler and London and others. The allowed vibrational energy levels are found to be given by the formula $E(n)={E}_{e}+h{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}(n+\frac{1}{2})\ensuremath{-}h{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}x{(n+\frac{1}{2})}^{2}$, which is known to express the experimental values quite accurately. The empirical law relating the normal molecular separation ${r}_{0}$ and the classical vibration frequency ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}$ is shown to be ${{r}_{0}}^{3}{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0}=K$ to within a probable error of 4 percent, where $K$ is the same constant for all diatomic molecules and for all electronic levels. By means of this law, and by means of the solution above, the experimental data for many of the electronic levels of various molecules are analyzed and a table of constants is obtained from which the potential energy curves can be plotted. The changes in the above mentioned vibrational levels due to molecular rotation are found to agree with the Kratzer formula to the first approximation.
Techniques and Instrumentation for Measuring the de Haas‐van Alphen Effect in Metals

The field modulation measurement technique is currently being used to obtain accurate and complete de Haas‐van Alphen spectra for many metals. A system is described, consisting of a superconducting magnet and low temperature cryostat, which is capable of simultaneously extending the measurement ranges for temperature down to 0.3 K and for magnetic field up to 62 kG. In addition, techniques for accurate alignment of the specimen in the magnetic field and electronic instrumentation important for the detection of dHvA spectra are discussed. Finally, accurate temperature measurement techniques are described which are currently being used for the precise determination of effective cyclotron masses in metals through the amplitude dependence of the dHvA effect.
Effects of larval energetic resources on life history and adult allocation patterns in a caddisfly (Trichoptera: Phryganeidae)

1. How populations respond to environmental change depends, in part, on the connection between environmental variance during early life stages and its effect on subsequent life-history traits. For example, environmental variation during the larval stage can influence the life histories of organisms with complex life cycles by altering the amount of time spent in each stage of the life cycle as well as by altering allocation to life-history traits during metamorphosis. 2. The effects of larval energetic resources on developmental timing, adult mass, fecundity, mating success, and allocation to adult body structures (thorax, abdomen, wings) were examined in an aquatic caddisfly (Agrypnia deflata Milne, Trichoptera: Phryganeidae). Larval energetic reserves were manipulated by removing larval cases just prior to pupation. In the first experiment, cases of all individuals were removed just prior to pupation; experimental individuals were required to build a new case whereas control individuals were allowed to re-enter their case without building. In the second experiment, energy differences were maximised between the two treatments by supplementing the larval diet of the control group and removing cases and not supplementing the diet of the experimental group. 3. Male and female development time, adult mass, and female fecundity were not influenced by case removal or diet supplementation. In contrast, allocation to adult body parts indicated a trade-off between abdominal and thoracic mass among case-removal females, suggesting that, under larval resource stress, females adjust resource allocation during metamorphosis to alleviate potential negative impacts on clutch size. In addition, latency to copulation increased when cases were removed, indicating larval resource stress could influence male mating success. 4. This study suggests that, under larval energetic stress, the negative impacts on female reproduction might be mitigated by re-allocating resources during metamorphosis, whereas male allocation strategies might not be as flexible as female strategies.
U.S. light vehicles — Some exciting news for the 1990s

Abstract The next generation of U.S. passenger cars and light trucks could have an average fuel economy of more than 25 km/l (60 mpg) if the nation so desires and establishes that goal now. By applying available technology and making prudent decisions regarding certain vehicle characteristics which significantly affect fuel economy, such high levels of fuel economy can be achieved and personal mobility preserved, without significant sacrifices.
High resolution photoelectron imaging of UO− and UO2− and the low-lying electronic states and vibrational frequencies of UO and UO2

We report a study of the electronic and vibrational structures of the gaseous uranium monoxide and dioxide molecules using high-resolution photoelectron imaging. Vibrationally resolved photoelectron spectra are obtained for both UO− and UO2−. The spectra for UO2− are consistent with, but much better resolved than a recent study using a magnetic-bottle photoelectron analyzer [W. L. Li et al., J. Chem. Phys. 140, 094306 (2014)]. The electron affinity (EA) of UO is reported for the first time as 1.1407(7) eV, whereas a much more accurate EA is obtained for UO2 as 1.1688(6) eV. The symmetric stretching modes for the neutral and anionic ground states, and two neutral excited states for UO2 are observed, as well as the bending mode for the neutral ground state. These vibrational frequencies are consistent with previous experimental and theoretical results. The stretching vibrational modes for the ground state and one excited state are observed for UO. The current results for UO and UO2 are compared with previous theoretical calculations including relativistic effects and spin-orbit coupling. The accurate experimental data reported here provide more stringent tests for future theoretical methods for actinide-containing species.
A Typology of Socioeconomic Disadvantage among Farm Operator Households: Assessment of Contributing Factors Using Evidence from a National Survey

Data from the 2004 Agricultural Resource Management Survey are used to construct a typology of socioeconomic disadvantage. Factors that are associated with the likelihood of farm households falling in a socio-economic disadvantaged category are estimated using a multinomial probit regression model. The findings, among others, highlight the importance of factors such as farm operators being married, and being older and more educated in reducing the likelihood of socioeconomic disadvantage. Yet other factors with the potential to lowering the likelihood of socioeconomic disadvantage are those related to increases in off-farm earnings and farm size, and farm program participation.
Mechanoluminescence of plastic scintillation counters

Luminescence has been observed from the mechanical deformation of plastic scintillation materials. The light was recorded by means of a photomultiplier, and observed on a monitor by means of an intensified CCD camera. There is evidence for piezoluminescence as well as triboluminescence.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and invasive staphylococcal infections: the cart or the horse?

In Reply .— We greatly appreciate Dr Barton's interest and comments on our report of severe staphylococcal sepsis in adolescents.1 Dr Barton inquires about the possible relationship between the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and severity of disease because the 2 patients described in detail had indeed received this class of drugs before admission. Revisiting the charts of …
The influence of "oral antiseptics" on the number of bacteria washed out of the mouth as measured by a rinse technique.

Abstract Hourly rinses of 20 ml. each of physiological salt solution for thirty seconds established a pattern of fluctuation in the number of bacteria in the mouth during the course of an eight-hour working day. There was a gradual increase in the number of bacteria during the first three hourly washes. The influence of eating, between the third and fourth hours, was reflected in a sharp reduction in the number of bacteria recovered at the fourth hourly wash. The number of bacteria increased at the fifth hourly wash (first hour after lunch) and continued to increase at each succeeding wash. The original prelunch levels in bacterial count were reached by approximately the seventh hour (third hour after lunch). Subsequent tests with "oral antiseptics” were made, employing four rinses at hourly intervals in order to avoid the complicating influence of eating. The results of these tests are compared with the levels indicated to be normal by physiological salt solution rinses over the same test periods.
Classical phase diffusion in small hysteretic Josephson junctions

The existence of classical phase diffusion in hysteretic junctions is demonstrated by quantitative agreement between experimental and simulated {ital I}-{ital V} curves. The simulations are based on a circuit that accurately models both the junction and its external shunting impedance at microwave frequencies. We show that the bias current at which the junction switches from the phase diffusion state to the voltage state is sensitive to dissipation at microwave frequencies.
An inexpensive, quickly built shock grid for use with humans

To make a smooth, comfortable shock grid for use with barefooted human subjects, adhesive-backed aluminum tape may be applied to a wooden board and connected to a shock source through solder lugs secured to the tape grid with wood screws.
Radial distribution studies of amorphous GexSe1−x alloy films

Abstract Radial distribution functions have been obtained from energy-filtered selected area electron diffraction data for four evaporated GexSe1−x amorphous films ca. 300 A thick. Peak positions in 4πr 2 p(r) are r 1 = 2.4, 2.3, 2.3, 2.4 A and r 2 = 4.0, 3.7, 3.5, 3.8 A for x = 0.00, 0.32, 0.56, 0.73 , respectively. First peak areas have been compared with those calculated for a random covalent model in which average coordinations of Ge and Se are four and two respectively. Areas for the alloys agree within estimated experimental error (±20%) with those predicted with this model.
Separation and Analysis of Δ9‐Tetrahydrocannabinol in Biological Fluids by High‐Pressure Liquid Chromatography and GLC

Abstract High‐pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) systems were developed to separate quantitatively Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol from heptane‐extractable lipoidal and other endogenous substances in biological fluids. These substances interfered with the quantitation by flame‐ionization GLC of the unmodified compound and by electron‐capture GLC of the pentafluorobenzoyl derivative. Reversed‐phase HPLC elution, with 47% acetonitrile in water and normal‐phase HPLC with 25% chloroform in heptane separated Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol from 11‐hydroxy‐ Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol and other monohydroxylated tetrahydrocannabinols. These systems also purified stock solutions of Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol from accompanying contaminants. The various monohydroxylated tetrahydrocannabinols were resolved from each other in the normal phase, 80% chloroform in heptane. The Δ 8 ‐ and Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinols were separable in the normal phase with 5% tetrahydrofuran in hexane. The GLC analysis of pentafluorobenzoylated Δ 9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol had a sensitivity of 1 ng/ml of plasma, with an estimated 5% standard error with the developed extraction and GLC procedures. Radiochemical analysis of the HPLC‐separated fraction had a sensitivity of 0.2 ng/ml of plasma, with an estimated 2% standard error. There was no significant difference between the liquid scintillation and electron‐capture GLC assays of the HPLC‐separated Δ 9 ‐tetrahydro‐cannabinol obtained from the plasma of dogs administered the drug. Radiolabeled compounds can be added to plasma samples as internal standards to determine the recovery efficiencies of the several procedures in the analysis of unlabeled tetrahydrocannabinol.
The Literary Remains of Sebastiano Serlio

Exactly four hundred years have passed since Sebastiano Serlio of Bologna,1 then on the verge of his sixty-sixth birthday,2 conducting from Venice a small caravan consisting of his wife Francesca Palladia and numerous children, including one “petit enfant qui n'est encores pour endurer en ce temps icy tel voyaige,”3 arrived in Paris to begin life anew.4 The date was epochal for the Renaissance of French
Inequality, Poverty, and the Socialization of America's Youth for the Responsibilities of Citizenship

A major goal of American education is preparation for citizenship. But having youth take on the responsibilities of citizenship is jeopardized by America's high level of income inequality and youth in poverty. Poverty contributes to health and social problems, including increased mental illness, drug use, imprisonment rates, school drop-out rates, teenage birth rates, and also decreased rates of social mobility and childhood wellbeing. These conditions block participation in the activities of citizenship by poor youth and their families, compared to wealthier citizens. Thus, the poor are not well represented in the discussions that affect their economic and social lives. Learning to be a good citizen is not easy in low-income families, where youth are distressed and schools are performing poorly. Reforming the nations' schools and increasing rates of participation in democracy may require addressing issues of income inequality and poverty, rather than most other current efforts.
Effect of Otitis Media With Effusion on Gross Motor Ability in Preschool-aged Children: Preliminary Findings

Objective. To investigate whether gross motor skills in preschool-aged children 24 to 60 months old with otitis media with effusion (OME) are different from those of preschool children without OME. Children and Methods. The gross motor portion of the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales (PDMS-GM) was used to compare 13 children with OME before and after tympanostomy tube placement to 12 children without OME. Results. The children with OME had significantly reduced scores preoperatively compared to those without OME on the PDMS-GM. After surgery, the children with OME had higher scores than those without OME, indicating an accelerated rate of development. Conclusions. Balance and motor development are additional factors to be considered in the medical and surgical management of the young child with chronic OME. Chronic OME may represent an additional problem for young children with existing motor deficits or other disabilities. Pediatrics 1997;99:334-337; Human; child; child, preschool; development; motor development; otitis media; otitis media with effusion, motor skills.
Effects of Deletion or Stringent Repression of the H3L Envelope Gene on Vaccinia Virus Replication

Poxviruses are the largest and most complex of all animal viruses. The first visible step in the assembly of vaccinia virus, the prototype poxvirus, is the formation of crescent membranes within viral factory areas of the cytoplasm (8). The crescents enclose electron-dense material to become spherical immature virions (IV) that progress into infectious intracellular mature virions (IMV). Some IMV are then wrapped by a double layer of membranes, derived from the trans-Golgi or endosomal cisternae, and migrate to the periphery of the cell where the outermost viral and plasma membranes may fuse (15, 17, 21, 35, 38). Virus spread is mediated largely by extracellular particles, which have one more membrane than the IMV, and are called cell-associated extracellular enveloped virions (CEV) if they remain adherent and extracellular enveloped virions (EEV) if they are detached from the cell surface (2, 4, 5, 24). Vaccinia virus mutants provide powerful tools for analyzing the sequential steps in membrane formation and morphogenesis. For example, studies with mutants indicated that (i) the F10L protein kinase is required for formation of the first viral membranes (39, 43); (ii) small vesicles that may be precursors of the viral membranes accumulate in the absence of A17L and A14L expression (28, 29, 40, 47); (iii) D13L expression is needed for coating the viral membranes to form crescents (50); (iv) IV accumulate when expression of L1R is blocked (25); (v) IMV remain largely unwrapped by cisternae when A27R (27), F13L (3), and B5R (12, 45) are not expressed; and (vi) actin tail formation is dependent on synthesis of proteins encoded by A33R, A34R, and A36R genes (30, 33, 46, 49). We recently initiated investigations of the role of the H3L protein, an immunodominant component of IMV membranes (18, 37, 51), and presented evidence that it is anchored to the surfaces of IMV by a C-terminal hydrophobic tail that can mediate posttranslational membrane insertion (7). As a continuation of that study we constructed two vaccinia virus mutants, one with the H3L open reading frame (ORF) deleted and the other with the H3L ORF stringently repressed, and found that immature viral forms accumulated, with a corresponding reduction in infectious virions, under conditions in which H3L was not expressed.
The renal plumbing system: aquaporin water channels

Aquaporins are channels that facilitate movement of water across lipid bilayers. They are expressed in multiple tissues and are essential for regulation of body water homeostasis. The kidney is the main organ responsible for this regulation, and at least seven aquaporins are expressed at distinct sites in the kidney. Aquaporin expression correlates with observed water permeability of each nephron segment: proximal tubule and descending thin limb of Henle have constitutive high water permeability due to expression of AQP1, whereas collecting duct water permeability is tightly regulated by the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin via regulation of AQP2. This review aims at providing insight into renal aquaporins, with special focus on AQP2.
Radioimmunoassay for glutamic acid decarboxylase-65.

Background: Glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 (GAD65), the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), is the major autoantigen in both type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes and stiff-man syndrome (SMS). The observation that GAD65 autoantibodies may be present for years before the clinical onset of diabetes raises the question of when GAD65 is available to initiate an immune response to allow the formation of autoantibodies. In order to address this question it will be necessary to measure GAD65 in tissue, cells, and plasma. Methods: A radioimmunoassay (RIA) was developed for GAD65 based on the use of a polyclonal rabbit antiserum directed to the N-terminus of GAD65. Results: Using the GAD65 RIA, we have determined the GAD65 content in a human GAD65 gene transfected cell line and in beta-cell preparations from different species. The assay detects an increase of immunoreactive GAD65 after glucose-stimulation and GAD65 that is discharged from rat beta cells after their exposure to the ...
The incidence of isolated paraaortic nodal metastasis in surgically staged endometrial cancer patients with negative pelvic lymph nodes

Abstract Objective To describe the incidence of isolated paraaortic nodal metastasis in surgically staged endometrial cancer patients with negative pelvic lymph nodes. Methods Using a prospectively maintained database we identified all cases of endometrial cancer that had both pelvic and aortic nodal dissection and determined the rate of isolated paraaortic nodal metastasis in the setting of negative pelvic nodes. For this report a satisfactory pelvic node dissection meant the identification of 8 or more pelvic nodes on final pathology. Results 1942 endometrial cancer patients were surgically treated at our institution from 1/93 to 1/08. 847 had both pelvic and paraaortic nodes removed during surgery and identified by pathology. 734 had negative pelvic nodes with at least one paraaortic node identified. Only 12 (1.6%) had positive paraaortic nodes with negative pelvic nodes. Seven (1%) of 640 cases with 8 or more negative pelvic nodes had positive paraaortic nodes. Final grade for these cases included: G1 (2), G2 (2), G3 (1), papillary serous (1), and undifferentiated (1). Of the 570 cases with a final diagnosis of grade 1 endometrial cancer, 187 had both pelvic and aortic node dissection during the same operation, and 2/187 (1%) had a positive paraaortic node with negative pelvic nodes. Conclusions Isolated paraaortic nodal metastasis in the setting of negative pelvic nodes occurs in ∼1% of surgically staged endometrial cancer cases. This low rate seems consistent for low- and high-grade lesions. Future studies looking at the incidence of isolated paraaortic nodal metastasis in the setting of negative sentinel pelvic nodes are warranted.
On the suitability of the down-zone imaging technique to the study of radiation damage

Abstract A comparison has been made of the defect image contrast obtained using conventional two-beam dark-field and the bright-field down-zone techniques. It is shown that better resolution and contrast of isolated amorphous zones in GaAs and vacancy loops in a Ag–Pd alloy are obtained in the down-zone images.
Tautochronic bifilar pendulum torsion absorbers for reciprocating engines

Abstract A device for the dynamic absorption of the torsional torque pulses acting on the crankshaft of a reciprocating engine is investigated herein. It is composed of a set of bifilar pendula arranged symmetrically on the crankshaft. These pendula oscillate about their equilibrium positions when periodic torque pulses act on the crankshaft. When the small amplitude period of the oscillating pendula is made synchronous with the period of the disturbing torque, the pendulum motion absorbs the energy in the torque pulses, so that the crankshaft angular velocity is almost constant. This synchronism is maintained at all engine speeds for small torques. However, non-linear effects destroy this synchronism at larger torques (which cause larger amplitude oscillations of the pendula). In this investigation, a path followed by the pendulum center of mass is sought such that the pendulum absorbs the nth order torque pulses at all speeds and amplitudes up to the maximum rated torque delivered by the engine. A computer program describing the non-linear dynamics of the crankshaft-pendulum system has been written and used in verifying the theoretical investigation. Some numerical results for an automobile engine are given.
Superiority of the left hemisphere in the recognition of emotional faces

Thirty-two right-handed university students (16 males and 16 females) participated in a choice reaction time study assessing the perception of hemispheric differences in positive (happiness, surprise) and negative (anger, disgust) facial affect. Subjects were exposed to slides of facial expressions in either the left or right visual field, and latency of affect identification was measured by having each subject move a lever forward or backward in a specified direction to indicate the emotion perceived. An analysis of variance with repeated measures over hand used, visual field, and affect across sex of subject revealed significant main effects for visual field, affect and sex of subject. In contrast to prior studies, the emotional faces were perceived faster in the right visual field than in the left visual field. This finding is explained in terms of the more demanding analytical task chosen in contrast to previous research which typically employed a holistic matching or recognition task. The faster perception of positive affect may be attributed to the increased salience of the facial cues present in those faces displaying happiness or surprise. Finally, the faster response of males supports existing data suggesting greater cerebral lateralization in the male brain.
Demonstration and Recognition of High and Low Contrasts in Teacher Intensity

The purpose of this study was to investigate teacher intensity, the global attributes of enthusiasm combined with an astute sense of timing in relation to classroom management and effective subject presentation and delivery. The authors also tried to ascertain whether high and low contrasts in teacher intensity could be taught to and then demonstrated by prospective music education student teachers (n = 20) and whether other music education majors untrained in the concept of intensity could recognize these contrasts (freshmen, n = 23; seniors, n = 22; and graduate students, n = 29). Results of the study indicated that intensity as a concept could be operationally defined, easily taught to prospective student teachers, ably demonstrated, and recognized with an extremely high degree of reliability across levels of sophistication within the music education major.
Practical nonlinear method for detection of respiratory and cardiac dysfunction in human subjects

This research applies novel nonlinear signal detection techniques in studies of human subjects with respiratory and cardiac diseases. One of the studies concerns a breathing disorder during sleep, a disease called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). In a second study we investigate a disease of the heart, Atrial Fibrillation (AF). The former study involves nonlinear processing of the time sequences of sleep apnea recordings (cardio-respirograms) collected from patients with known obstructive sleep apnea, and from a normal control. In the latter study, we apply similar nonlinear metrics to Doppler flow measurements obtained by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). One of our metrics, the 'chaotic radius' is used for tracking the position of points in phase space relative to some reference position. A second metric, the 'differential radius' provides a measure of the separation rate of contiguous (evolving) points in phase space. A third metric, the 'chaotic frequency' gives angular position of the phase space orbit as a function of time. All are useful for identifying change of physiologic condition that is not always apparent using conventional methods.
Dose-dependent effects of linear and cyclic somatostatin on ethanol-induced gastric erosions: the role of mast cells and increased vascular permeability in the rat.

Abstract Somatostatin prevents hemorrhagic gastric erosions produced by ethanol. In this paper we describe studies with linear (reduced) and cyclic (oxidized) synthetic somatostatin-14 in the rat model of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury. The linear form of somatostatin was more potent at concentrations of 10−9 to 10−8 mol per rat than the cyclic isomere. However, at a concentration of 10−7 mol per rat i.p. injection of linear somatostatin significantly ( P ) enhanced gastric erosions caused by the alcohol. The area of hemorrhagic mucosal lesions correlated significantly ( r = −0.846 ) with mast cell depletion in the gastric mucosa of the animals. Increased vascular permeability and mast cell degranulation were also observed after intradermal injection of linear or cyclic somatostatin. The ‘cytoprotective’ as well as the aggravating potency of linear somatostatin may be connected to gastric mucosal mast cell activity in the rat.
DNA, ganglioside and sulfatide in brains of rats given corticosterone in infancy, with an estimate of cell loss during development.

Summary Evidence of a postnatal loss of cerebral cells has been presented, based on counts of the activity of cerebral DNA following labeling with [ 3 H]thymidine on embryonic day 14. In otherwise untreated rats, the loss was about 15% of the labeled cells between postnatal days 3 and 15. There was no further loss of activity thereafter. Littermates given corticosterone at day 3 showed little additional loss of labeled cells. Ganglioside NANA (N-acetylneuraminic acid) was reduced in proportion to the reduction in cerebral weight in the corticosterone treated rats. Sulfatide was reduced more, so that the concentration was 11% below that of the controls. It is concluded that the deficit in DNA after postnatal corticosterone treatment must be due primarily to an irreversible suppression of DNA synthesis, involving mainly glia. The reduction in gangliosides may represent a deficit in the growth of neuronal processes, leading to a reduction in the amount of neuropil, and perhaps contributing to a decrease in the number or size of myelinated axons.