cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isotopic separations of tritium-substituted compounds from protium analogues by high-pressure liquid chromatography.

Abstract The use of high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the separation of a large variety of compounds is now common. Those compounds which contain hydrophobic moieties can often be well separated on reverse phase columns where the stationary hydrocarbon phase is bound to the support and the compounds are eluted with water, mixed with polar organic solvents such as methanol. One of the advantages of HPLC is the high column efficiency which can be obtained. Despite this, however, it may still not be possible to resolve certain closely related compounds, such as the 12 phenols of benzo[ a ]pyrene (BP) (1,2). Thus, when identity between a radioactive component and its unlabeled analogue is to be claimed, great care must be exercised. We were concerned, therefore, when, during an investigation (3) of products formed by the enzyme-catalysed binding of 7,12-[G- 3 H]dimethylbenz[ a ]anthracene (DMBA) to polyguanosine, some of the modified nucleoside adducts showed very slightly shorter retention times than the unlabelled compound to which it was thought they corresponded. the possibility that this was an isotopic separation (4) was investigated.
The market ethic: Moral dilemmas and microeconomics

Brief cases written as multiple choice questions can provide the basis for a classroom game based on business ethics. This teaching note describes the organization of such a game and provides five sample cases.
Status of Research Training in Psychiatry

A survey of research opportunities and training strategies in departments of psychiatry revealed a fairly low number of research training opportunities. Also, the research didactics seem to be relatively short and lacking education in study design. Trainees are rarely required to submit a research protocol and/or initiate their own research project. The authors discuss the implications of these findings and make recommendations for improvement of research training.
The development of immunity to Eimeria species in broilers given anticoccidial drugs.

The acquisition of immunity to Eimeria species was studied in broilers reared in floor-pens on new and used litter, and given different anticoccidial drug programmes. Programmes included a single drug (synthetic compound or ionophore) given in the starter and grower feed, or 'shuttle' programmes comprising a synthetic drug followed by an ionophore (or vice versa) given in the starter and grower feeds, respectively. None of the drug programmes prevented parasite multiplication, since oocysts were found in the intestines of birds and in the litter. Birds were challenged at weekly intervals with a mixture of species (E. acervulina, E. maxima and E. tenella) in order to establish whether protective immunity had developed. Birds reared on used litter that received no medication acquired immunity by 5 weeks, whereas birds reared on new litter were not fully protected against a challenge inoculum until 7 weeks of age. Apart from birds given an ionophore followed by a synthetic drug, medicated birds developed imm...
Dissociated Regulation of Cellular Progesterone Secretion and Cytosolic Ornithine Decarboxylase Activity in Isolated Ovarian Cells in Vitro

We have utilized isolated, highly differentiated porcine granulosa cells maintained under chemically defined conditions in vitro to examine directly the relationship between ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity and progesterone secretion in ovarian cells. The administration of saturating concentrations of LH, prostaglandin E2, L-epinephrine, or 8-bromo-cAMP each elicited, highly significant increases in progesterone production, which correlated closely with corresponding stimulated levels of ODC activity. Highly purified preparations of FSH elicited no enzymatic or steroidogenic response. ODC activity and progesterone production also correlated closely after administration of various inhibitors of protein or RNA synthesis [cycloheximide (10 μg/ml), actinomycin D (1 μg/ml), or a-amanitin (1 μg/ml)]. However, in time-course experiments, progesterone secretion increased significantly before the rise in ODC activity. Furthermore, a direct irreversible catalytic inhibitor of ODC activity, DL-α-difluoromethyl...
Effect of surface impurities on the Cu/Ta interface

Abstract Auger electron spectroscopy and temperature programmed desorption studies under ultra-high vacuum conditions demonstrate that even sub-monolayer coverages of oxygen or carbide on polycrystalline Ta significantly degrade the strength of Cu/Ta chemical interactions, and affect the kinetics of Cu diffusion into bulk Ta. On clean Ta, monolayer coverages of Cu will de-wet only above 600 K. A partial monolayer of adsorbed oxygen (3 L O2 at 300 K) results in a lowering of the de-wetting temperature to 500 K, while saturation oxygen coverage (10 L O2, 300 K) results in de-wetting at 300 K. Carbide formation also lowers the de-wetting temperature to 300 K. Diffusion of Cu into the Ta substrate at 1100 K occurs only after a 5-min induction period at this temperature. This induction period increases to 10 min for partially oxidized Ta, 15 min for carbidic Ta and 20 min for fully oxidized Ta.
All semiconductor negative-index plasmonic absorbers

We demonstrate all-semiconductor thin-film plasmonic absorbers, where strong absorption in these structures is linked to the excitation of highly-confined negative-index surface plasmon polaritons. We present numerical and analytical descriptions of guided modes of the system.
SmartGlove for upper extremities rehabilitative gaming assessment

This paper presents a quantitative assessment solution for an upper extremities rehabilitative gaming application [1]. This assessment solution consists of a set of stand-alone hardware, including SmartGlove and Kinect, a depth capturing sensor made by Microsoft. SmartGlove is a specially designed motion and finger angle extraction device which is packaged in an easy-to-wear and adjustable manner for a patient with an upper extremity impairment. Sensor data extraction, alignment, and visualization algorithms were designed for integrating hand-mounted sensors data streams into skeleton coordinates captured by the Kinect. This enhanced skeleton information can be summarized and replayed as upper extremity joint coordinate animations which can be used for physical therapists to quantify rehabilitation progress. In addition, to serve as an assessment tool, enhanced skeleton information can be used to extend the capability of the Kinect vision system, such as providing motion capture of the upper extremities, even when the testing subject is out of camera scope or one's upper extremities are occluded by the body.
The Poverty of Globalization

Globalization and Its Enemies. By Daniel Cohen. Translated by Jessica B. Baker Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2006. 192 pp., $27.95 (ISBN: 0-262-03350-X). In Globalization and Its Enemies , Daniel Cohen challenges his readers to consider globalization not only for its real and perceived harmful effects, but also—and perhaps more importantly—for its promise of prosperity, which the enemies of globalization either oppose on cultural grounds or do not recognize as being economically possible. The problem is that poverty truly exists, but not for the reasons that globalization's enemies believe. Cohen crafts a fascinating argument centering on the point that the world's poor are not poor because they are being exploited through processes of globalization. Rather, they are poor because they are being neglected. Central to Cohen's argument is the idea that the poor want access to the system even more than to the material things that the system produces. In Cohen's words, “the world will never be ‘just’ as long as people do not have the conviction that they all contribute to discovering and molding a shared human destiny” (p. 169). The greater difficulty for these people—who cannot fail to see the chasm that divides them from their wealthy counterparts because of modern communication technology—is that “everything that will allow them to become fully vested participants in globalization remains to be done” (p. 166). What is more, within the currents of today's globalization, which is quite different from previous manifestations, few opportunities seem to exist to even begin achieving greater access. Much of Globalization and Its Enemies is an examination of representative examples of mistaken ideas about how the world's economy works, or more precisely how it fails to work. Drawing upon Jared Diamond's (1996) Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies , Cohen points to a crucial failure of capitalism. Specifically, “what …
Increasing social support for depressed individuals: a cross-cultural assessment of an affect-expectancy approach.

Depression is a mental illness affecting 121 million people. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration recently launched a national, bilingual (English and Spanish) campaign to motivate young adults to support friends with mental illness. This article highlights and assesses the usefulness of two theoretically derived variables for increasing the social support received by all depressed individuals: (a) affect and (b) social support outcome expectations. In accord with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's bilingual campaign, the authors conducted two studies using intercepts at 2 swap meets in the U.S. Southwest. One study sample consisted of Spanish-dominant Hispanics, the other non-Hispanics. For both samples, results indicate that affect, social support outcome expectations, and their interaction accounted for more than 50% of the variance of social support intentions (67% in the Hispanic sample when familism was considered). Affect is commonplace in the h...
The impact of relational holism on conflict management styles in colleagueship and friendship: A cross-cultural study

Abstract This study investigates cultural differences in conflict management styles between the U.S. and South Korea ( n US = 157, n KOR = 146). Predictions deduced from the theory of relational holism were consistent with the data. In managing conflicts, Americans preferred styles associated with low concern for others (i.e., competing, avoiding), whereas Koreans preferred styles requiring high concern for others (i.e., collaborating, accommodating). This pattern remained consistent among friends and colleagues, except that Americans tended to accommodate much less with colleagues than with friends. The current evidence enhances the internal/external validity of the theory of relational holism.
Auditors on the hot seat

Regulators continue to look at auditors with a suspicious eye. The authors look at current developments, including the recent AICPA SEC/PCAOB conference, a PCAOB report, and more © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Purification and sequencing of a mate-recognition protein from the copepod Tigriopus japonicus

Male copepods in the genus Tigriopus use surface proteins of female copepods to recognize appropriate mates. In a previous study of pre-copulatory mate-guarding in T. japonicus Mori, a monoclonal antibody was developed against one protein that contributed to the attractiveness of female T. japonicus as mate-guarding partners. In the present study, which was performed between December 1998 and November 2000, the antibody was used to purify two proteins from homogenates of pooled T. japonicus. A 70 kD protein was partially sequenced using mass spectrometry, revealing sequence similarity to α2-macroglobulin. It was shown that the 70 kD protein was highly expressed in stage CV females, the most attractive stage for mate-guarding. A purified 36 kD protein was also shown to be a cognate of α2-macroglobulin. Because the structure of both the 70 and 36 kD proteins suggested that protease activity and its inhibition might play a role in male mate choice, three protease inhibitors were tested in bioassays of male discrimination of conspecifics. The male's ability to discriminate among females was not completely blocked by the protease inhibitor, but their behavior was affected in more subtle ways. This suggests that the 70 kD protein, designated CSP70, is a variant of α2-macroglobulin, but with more specific activity.
Effects of induced periapical abscesses on rat pregnancy outcomes.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to determine the effects of induced periapical abscesses on pregnant rats. Design In 1/2 of the animals (n = 16), the pulps of the maxillary right molars were exposed to the oral environment, which resulted in a periapical abscess. The other 1/2 (n = 16) were sham-operated. 1/2 of the animals of both groups became pregnant 2 weeks later. The pregnancy duration, and weight and number of pups were assessed at delivery. Serum, liver and uterine horn samples were taken from all animals at euthanasia and serum IL-6, endothelin-1, TNF-α, IL-10, cortisol and insulin were determined by ELISA. Liver concentrations of IL-6, CRP and IL-6 and uterine horn concentrations of IL-6, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-1-β were assessed by ELISA. Blood glucose concentrations were determined using a glucometer. Outcome variables were compared by factorial ANOVA, a post hoc Tukey test, and Pearson’s correlation test. Results Pregnant rats with periapical abscesses had a significantly longer pregnancy and delivered pups with a significantly higher birthweight (p Conclusion The significant increase in serum TNF-α, taken together with significant increases in blood glucose and serum insulin concentrations, suggest that animals with induced periapical abscesses developed insulin resistance, which significantly affected their pregnancy outcomes.
Management Development in the Foodservice Industry

How hospitality schools can best prepare their students for tomorrow's chal lenges has long been a controversial issue. In the first two articles of this series, we suggested that hospitality education should at least help students to understand the underlying economic environment and nature of competition in their industry. In this article we explore contemporary management theory and conclude with a summary of recommendations for hospitality educators, based on the material in all three articles in this series.
Caprolactam production by direct solar flux

Abstract The use of solar energy for the photonitrosation of cyclohexane for the production of cyclohexanone oxime hydrochloride, an intermediate for the manufacture of caprolactam, is discussed. Experimental results show the technical feasibility of such a reaction in the presence of radiation of wavelength 350–550 nm simulating sunlight.
Antimicrobial agents from higher plants: two dimethylbenzisochromans from Karwinskia humboldtiana

Abstract Two new antimicrobial dimethylbenzisochromans were isolated from the roots of Karwinskia humboldtiana together with the known 7-acetyl-6,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-l-naphthol. The structures and absolute configurations were determined by spectroscopic examination and by chemical transformation to the known quinones eleutherin and 7-methoxyeleutherin.
Chemical Synthesis of Two-Dimensional Iron Chalcogenide Nanosheets: FeSe, FeTe, Fe(Se,Te), and FeTe2

Transition metal chalcogenides are important materials because of their range of useful properties and applications, including as thermoelectrics, magnetic semiconductors, superconductors, quantum dots, sensors, and photovoltaics. In particular, iron chalcogenides have received renewed attention following the discovery of superconductivity in PbO-type β-FeSe and related solid solutions. This paper reports a low-temperature solution chemistry route to the synthesis of β-FeSe, β-FeTe, FeTe2, and several members of the β-Fe(Se,Te) solid solution. The samples were analyzed by powder XRD, TEM, EDS, SAED, SEM with elemental mapping, AFM, and SQUID magnetometry. Consistent with the layered crystal structures, the FeSe, FeTe, and Fe(Se,Te) products are predominantly two-dimensional single-crystal nanosheets with thicknesses of approximately 2−3 nm and edge lengths ranging from 200 nm to several micrometers. FeTe2 forms a mixture of nanosheets and one-dimensional sheet-derived nanostructures. None of the samples a...
Localization of type II collagen, long form α1(IX) collagen, and short form α1(IX) collagen transcripts in the developing chick notochord and axial skeleton

In this study we compare, by in situ hybridization, the spatial and temporal expression patterns of transcripts of avian type II collagen and the long and short forms of the (alpha 1) chain of type IX collagen during the development of the notochord and axial skeleton. We observed type II collagen and short form type IX collagen transcripts in the developing (stage 25-28) nonchondrogenic notochord. Conversely, long form type IX transcripts were not detectable in the notochord or perinotochordal sheath. Interestingly, all three transcripts colocalized in the developing chondrogenic vertebrae of the axial skeleton as well as in the chondrocranium and Meckel's cartilage. The expression of the short form of type IX collagen in these regions was more restricted than that of the long form. This report provides additional support for a complex regulatory pathway of cartilage marker gene expression in chondrogenic vs. nonchondrogenic tissues during avian embryogenesis.
Single-Crystalline Permalloy Nanowires in Carbon Nanotubes: Enhanced Encapsulation and Magnetization

We report the use of dichlorobenzene as a carbon source to produce carbon nanotubes with thinner walls and a relatively large cavity, boosting the efficiency of metal encapsulation inside nanotubes. As an example, we show that Permalloy (FeNi) was encapsulated in nanotubes in the form of long nanowires and reached more than 30 wt % of the final product. These Permalloy nanowires are single crystalline, with a typical length of several micrometers and an aspect ratio of >100, and sheathed by several graphene layers. Such Permalloy nanowires show much-enhanced magnetization and microwave absorption properties, compared with Fe or FeNi nanowires produced by the source materials without adding Cl. The improved magnetic properties are due to a more efficient in situ encapsulation of Permalloy and a lesser number of nanotube walls coated on the surface of nanowires.
Hypertension and abnormal fat distribution but not insulin resistance in mice with P465L PPARγ

Peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ (PPARγ), the molecular target of a class of insulin sensitizers, regulates adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism. A dominant negative P467L mutation in the ligand-binding domain of PPARγ in humans is associated with severe insulin resistance and hypertension. Homozygous mice with the equivalent P465L mutation die in utero. Heterozygous mice grow normally and have normal total adipose tissue weight. However, they have reduced interscapular brown adipose tissue and intra-abdominal fat mass, and increased extra-abdominal subcutaneous fat, compared with wild-type mice. They have normal plasma glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, and increased glucose tolerance. However, during high-fat feeding, their plasma insulin levels are mildly elevated in association with a significant increase in pancreatic islet mass. They are hypertensive, and expression of the angiotensinogen gene is increased in their subcutaneous adipose tissues. The effects of P465L on blood pressure, fat distribution, and insulin sensitivity are the same in both male and female mice regardless of diet and age. Thus the P465L mutation alone is sufficient to cause abnormal fat distribution and hypertension but not insulin resistance in mice. These results provide genetic evidence for a critical role for PPARγ in blood pressure regulation that is not dependent on altered insulin sensitivity.
EncM, a versatile enterocin biosynthetic enzyme involved in Favorskii oxidative rearrangement, aldol condensation, and heterocycle-forming reactions

The bacteriostatic natural product enterocin from the marine microbe “Streptomyces maritimus” has an unprecedented carbon skeleton that is derived from an aromatic polyketide biosynthetic pathway. Its caged tricyclic, nonaromatic core is derived from a linear poly-β-ketide precursor that formally undergoes a Favorskii-like oxidative rearrangement. In vivo characterization of the gene encM through mutagenesis and heterologous biosynthesis demonstrated that its protein product not only is solely responsible for the oxidative C—C rearrangement, but also facilitates two aldol condensations plus two heterocycle forming reactions. In total, at least five chiral centers and four rings are generated by this multifaceted flavoprotein. Heterologous expression of the enterocin biosynthesis genes encABCDLMN in Streptomyces lividans resulted in the formation of the rearranged metabolite desmethyl-5-deoxyenterocin and the shunt products wailupemycins D-G. Addition of the methyltransferase gene encK, which was previously proposed through mutagenesis to additionally assist EncM in the Favorskii rearrangement, shifted the production to the O-methyl derivative 5-deoxyenterocin. The O-methyltransferase EncK seems to be specific for the pyrone ring of enterocin, because bicyclic polyketides bearing pyrone rings are not methylated in vivo. Expression of encM with different combinations of homologous actinorhodin biosynthesis genes did not result in the production of oxidatively rearranged enterocin-actinorhodin hybrid compounds as anticipated, suggesting that wild-type EncM may be specific for its endogenous type II polyketide synthase or for benzoyl-primed polyketide precursors.
Aromaticity in heterocyclic systems III. The structure and proton magnetic resonance spectra of certain imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines

A number of improved laboratory procedures for the synthesis of derivatives ofimidazo-[1,2-alpyridines are reported. These methods have been employed for the preparation of 5-chloroimidazo[1,2-alpyridine (IX), 5-aminoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine (IV), 2-methyl and 2,3-dimethyl-5-aminoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine. The proton magnetic resonance spectra of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine (I) have been studied and the bands assigned by a comparison of spectral patterns of simple derivatives. The proton magnetic resonance spectra were then utilized to assign predominant tautomeric structures to imidazo[1, 2-a]-2-pyridone (IIIb), imidazo[1,2-a]-(1H)-5-pyridone (VIIb) and 5-aminoimidazo-[1, 2-alpyridine (IV). The synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]-(1H)-5-pyridone (VII) was accomplished from 5-chloro-imidazo[1, 2-alpyridine (IX) via 5-benzyloximidazo[1,2-a]pyridine (X) which was debeneylated catalytically to yield VII. Bromoacetaldehyde and 2-amino-4-chloropyridine gave 7-chloroimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine.
Eyesafe laser-illuminated tripwire (ELIT) detector

The technical issues of a standoff electro-optic tripwire detector are discussed. Significant advances in short-wave infrared (SWIR) laser diodes and InGaAs detector technologies have made it possible for the demonstration of a passive and active eyesafe (1.5 micron) laser illuminated tripwire (ELIT) detector. The demonstrated system utilizes COTS laser diodes and cameras. The Hough Transform was used for the detection of tripwires in images. System trade-offs are discussed and images are shown.
Alteration of OBCAM conformation as a result of opioid receptor expression and opioid ligand treatment

Several lines of evidence link the opioid binding cell adhesion molecule (OBCAM) to opioid function. When δ-opioid receptor cDNA (DOR-1) was expressed in CHO cells, OBCAM immunoreactivity (OBCAM-ir) was detected. Transfected cell lines which displayed high opioid binding also expressed high cell surface OBCAM-ir, while untransfected CHO and vector control cells did not. The positive control, neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), a protein with structural homology to OBCAM, displayed the same levels of immunofluorescence in transfected and nontransfected cell lines. Membranes from CHO cells transfected with and expressing a variety of muscarinic and dopamine receptors were tested for immunoreactivity. No significant OBCAM-ir was detected in any of these cell membranes. When anti-OBCAM peptide antibodies were used for immunoblots of CHO cells, untransfected, non-binding transfected, and high binding transfected cells revealed the same banding patterns with approximately equal intensity. These observations suggest that in untransfected cells OBCAM is either not present on the extracellular side of the CHO cell membrane or that it exists in an altered conformation which changes upon transfection with opioid receptors to allow recognition of the non-denatured protein by anti-OBCAM antibodies.
LC-MS of oligonucleotides: applications in biomedical research

Recent findings have elucidated numerous novel biological functions for oligonucleotides. Current standard methods for the study of oligonucleotides (i.e., hybridization and PCR) are not fully equipped to deal with the experimental needs arising from these new discoveries. More importantly, as the intracellular capacity of oligonucleotides is being harnessed for biomedical applications, alternative bioanalytical techniques become indispensable in order to comply with ever-increasing regulatory requirements. Owing to its ability to detect oligonucleotides independent of their sequence, LC–MS is emerging as the analytical method of choice for oligonucleotides. In this article, the current applications of LC–MS in the analysis of oligonucleotides, with an emphasis on RNA therapeutics and biomarkers, will be examined. In addition, the theoretical framework of oligonucleotide ESI is carefully inspected with the purpose of identifying the contributing factors to MS signal intensity.
Large signal quantum-well oscillator design

Accurate characterization of the large signal device impedance is very important in the successful design of an oscillator. In this paper we present a simple calculation of a large signal negative conductance of a quantum-well diode. This procedure enables us to calculate negative conductance as a function of rf voltage amplitude across the device, negative conductance as a function of dc bias voltage, and dc-to-rf conversion efficiency available from the device. Correct evaluation of large signal negative conductance is required to stabilize and maximize the oscillator output power. It is especially important for series integrated quantum-well oscillator design, where due to the hard excitation condition a circuit design is very critical.
Solid state: Silicon sensors meet integrated circuits: The combination of sensing and circuit technology in monolithic form is making transducers cheaper and more versatile

Describes the combination of sensing and circuit technology in monolithic form is making transducers cheaper and more versatile.
Saxagliptin: New Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of saxagliptin for the treatment of hyperglycemia associated with type 2 diabetes. Data Sources: A MEDLINE/PubMed search was conducted of all available date ranges from 1990 through October 2009 for literature in the English language, using the search terms saxagliptin, type 2 diabetes mellitus, incretin hormones, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. The manufacturer of saxagliptin (Onglyza) was contacted for clinical trial information. Study Selection: Five prospective, randomized controlled trials were reviewed. Studies were included in this review if they had examined saxagliptin and its effects on hyperglycemia. Trials examined included those on saxagliptin monotherapy and those on saxagliptin in combination with metformin, with a sulfonylurea, and with a thiazolidinedione. Data from the MEDLINE/PubMed search, as well as clinical trial data obtained from the manufacturer, were used in this review. Data Synthesis: Saxagliptin demonstrated statistically significant decreases of 0.43-0.54% in hemoglobin A 1c (A1C) in the monotherapy treatment group. The A1C-lowering effects were the greatest, with a decrease of 2.5% in patients concomitantly administered metformin and saxagliptin as initial therapy. In addition to its effects on A1C, saxagliptin proved to be weight neutral and had minimal risks of hypoglycemia, with hypoglycemia seen only in the saxagliptin in combination with a sulfonylurea group. Conclusions: Saxagliptin is an effective treatment for hyperglycemia associated with type 2 diabetes. It is currently a third-line option in the American Diabetes Association treatment algorithm for type 2 diabetes and, based on the trials reviewed here, this is an acceptable place in therapy. Saxagliptin is a good option for patients with diabetes who are at high risk of hypoglycemia.
Noninvasive detection of coronary atherosclerotic plaque by multidetector row computed tomography.

Coronary artery disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death and disability around the globe, challenging the efficacy of currently applied schemes to predict the risk for future coronary events. In fact, algorithms such as the Framingham risk score that are based on traditional risk factors like hypertension and dyslipidemia are not very sensitive, leaving a majority of the population at intermediate risk. Advances in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) technology with submillimeter slice collimation (∼0.6 mm) and high temporal resolution now permit contrast-enhanced imaging of the coronary artery lumen and wall in a single breath hold. The current generation of MDCT provided in-plane resolution of 0.5 mm and a temporal resolution of 210 ms. The simultaneous acquisition of 16/64 parallel cross-sections reduces image acquisition time to about 10–20 s using 60–80 ml of contrast agents to opacify the coronary artery lumen. CT imaging for coronary calcification is an established method with low radiation exposure. The amount of calcification is expressed as an Agatston Score (AS). The presence and amount of coronary calcification significantly increases the relative risk for future coronary events, independent from traditional risk factors (risk ratio 8.7 [95% CI, 2.7–28.1]). Especially, individuals with a high AS (>400) who are at intermediate 10-y Framingham event risk may benefit from this additional risk stratification. However, calcification is rarely present in children and adolescents. However, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that contrast-enhanced MDCT can detect both calcified and noncalcified plaques with high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of plaques >0.5 mm when compared to intravascular ultrasound. Moreover, initial data suggest that plaque characteristics such as plaque area, volume, quantify and coronary plaque remodeling index can be quantified in good agreement with IVUS. The composition of noncalcified plaque may be further stratified into predominantly fibrous or lipid-rich plaque. Noncalcified plaque may be present already in children and adolescents with multiple risk factors. The available data indicate that high resolution MDCT can reliably detect, quantify and characterize calcified and noncalcified coronary atherosclerotic plaque. With MDCT, we now have a unique opportunity to study the natural history and response to therapy of noncalcified coronary plaques, which may be already present in obese children or children with multiple risk factors.
Radioactive Rose Bengal Test as a Quantitative Measure of Liver Function

SummaryThe radioactive rose bengal test, a very sensitive test of liver function, can be analyzed graphically to yield three quantities —uptake halftime, excretion halftime and fractional liver blood volume. The values in various liver diseases seem to be characteristic of the disease and to indicate whether cellular damage or obstruction predominates.
Measuring Geographical Environments through Adjectives: The Environmental Check List:

The Environmental Check List, a 140-item adjective check list developed to measure geographical environments, is presented. The list was developed from 304 open-ended descriptions, and its utility illustrated by three studies: (1) a pre-post study over 1 yr. of 108 newcomers to Tucson, AZ; (2) a 5-yr. study of initial reaction to a desert environment as related to subsequent mobility; and (3) a comparison of responses to the check list and to the Environmental Response Inventory.
Molecular Characterization of a Novel Intracellular Hyaluronan-binding Protein

Hyaluronan has well defined functions in extracellular matrices and at the surface of cells. However, several studies have now shown that significant pools of hyaluronan are also present intracellularly, but its function therein is unknown. One avenue of investigation that may assist in defining the function of intracellular hyaluronan is to identify intracellular hyaluronan-binding proteins. In previous studies we identified CDC37, a cell cycle regulatory protein, using a monoclonal antibody that recognizes a novel group of hyaluronan-binding proteins. In this study, we have identified a second hyaluronan-binding protein with this antibody and characterized its properties. This protein, which we have termed IHABP4, was also found to be an intracellular and a specific hyaluronan-binding protein, containing several hyaluronan-binding motifs: (R/K)X7(R/K) (where R/K denotes arginine or lysine and X denotes non-acidic amino acids). Furthermore, we have determined the gene organization ofIHABP4 and cloned cDNAs for the chick, mouse, and human homologs. Comparison of the deduced chick, mouse, and human protein sequences showed that the hyaluronan-binding motifs, (R/K)X7(R/K), in these sequences are conserved; both chick and mouse IHABP4 were shown directly to bind hyaluronan. Biochemical fractionation and immunofluorescent localization of epitope-tagged IHABP4 indicated that it is mainly present in the cytoplasm. These data support the possibility that intracellular hyaluronan and its binding proteins may play important roles in cell behavior.
Collegial Study Groups: A Strategy for Creating Shared Visions of Assistive Technology Outcomes.

While assistive technology devices are common in most schools, to date assistive technology appears to be acquired more frequently in response to advocacy efforts on behalf of individual students rather than as the result of systemic evaluation of the needs of all students. While such efforts are developmentally noteworthy, they are hardly adequate for achieving large-scale benefits. The purpose of this article is to describe professional development and change strategies for fostering collaborative and systemic efforts to consider assistive technology and evaluate its impact. A self-study process is used to engage teachers, administrators, and related service personnel in a series of collegial conversations about assistive technology outcomes. Four topics are used to structure the conversations: (a) assistive technology and human performance, (b) assistive technology consideration, (c) assistive technology service delivery systems, and (d) accountability initiatives. Group processes are critical for the ...
ECLSS development for future space missions

The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) for Space Station Freedom is presently under development. Three areas of concern for longer duration missions are recycling of mass, monitoring and controlling the ECLSS, and controlling trace contaminants and microorganisms. The goal is to 'close the loop' for water and oxygen much more than has been done on previous missions. Alternative technologies for performing each of the ECLSS functions are being developed and evaluated as part of the selection process for choosing the technologies to use on Freedom. Methods to automatically monitor and control the ECLSS are being investigated. The instrumentation needs are being determined in order to focus effort where most needed. Research is also underway to improve methods of monitoring and controlling trace contaminants and microorganisms.
A rapid electrophoretic procedure for the detection of SDS-released oncorna-viral RNA using polyacrylamide-agarose gels

Abstract A rapid method for analyzing SDS-released viral RNA on acrylamideagarose gels is described. Studies carried out on Rauscher leukemia virus and Mason-Pfizer monkey virus utilizing this method show that the distribution and recovery of the RNA components are similar for phenol-extracted or SDS-released viral RNA. The method is approximately 20 times more sensitive than sucrose gradient analysis and can be utilized in cases where virus concentration (EM particle count or radioactivity) is low. Data presented illustrate the versatility of this method.
Ectoparasites of terrestrial vertebrates inhabiting the Georgia Barrier Islands, USA: an inventory and preliminary biogeographical analysis

Aim To document ectoparasitic arthropods of terrestrial vertebrates inhabiting barrier islands and to offer preliminary interpretations. Location The coast of Georgia, USA, with most data presented for St Catherines, Sapelo, Jekyll, and Cumberland islands. Methods Ectoparasites were collected and identified from hundreds of live-trapped mammals, birds, and reptiles. Ticks and louse-flies were also collected by dragging or flagging a white cloth through vegetation. Some ectoparasites were recovered from host nests or roosting sites. Literature records and specimen records from the US National Tick Collection supplemented these data. Results Inventories of ectoparasite species recovered from vertebrates on each island are provided. Many new records and a small number of undescribed species are reported. Main conclusions Compared with most ectoparasite faunas associated with the same host species on the adjacent mainland, ectoparasite species diversity on the barrier islands is depauperate. Possible reasons for this phenomenon are discussed including ecological, geological, and vicariant factors. Tick faunas do not appear to be depauperate on the islands probably because immature stages attach to visiting or migrating birds. Some host-ectoparasite associations that we recorded are atypical for mainland faunas. This trend has also been recorded in some previous surveys of insular ectoparasites and may be related to vacant ectoparasite niches on some islands.
Arterial stiffness and diastolic blood pressure: what is the connection?

Summary Although brachial systolic blood pressure (SBP) is the overall best predictor of future cardiovascular risk for the entire hypertensive population, there is much that can be learned from assessing diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in relation to simultaneous levels of SBP, because the former is not distorted by pressure amplification. In very young (mean age of 20 years) hypertensives, discordantly low DBP, defined as isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), was associated with increased stroke volumes (SV), increased aortic stiffness or a combination of both. These individuals had a significantly higher mean central SBP than normotensive persons, and therefore, should not be classified as having spurious hypertension. In contrast, young adults with essential hypertension presented with elevated DBP and evidence of increased peripheral vascular resistance. Discordantly high DBP in young adults (mean age of 40 years) with isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH) was associated with a high prevalence of obesity and the metabolic syndrome; DBP was discordantly high because of a limited rise in SBP secondary to decreased pressure amplification. Discordantly very low DBP in the older age population (mean age ⩾ 60 years) with ISH defines a population with LVH, increased ventricular-arterial stiffness, and a propensity for diastolic dysfunction. Therefore, discordantly low DBP may be an early marker of increased SV and/or arterial stiffness in young adults and a late marker of ventricular-arterial stiffness in older adults. In contrast to risk prediction where brachial DBP may be of paramount importance, the therapeutic benefit of antihypertensive therapy is entirely related to decreased SBP.
Synthesis of tolerogenic monomethoxypolyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol conjugates of peptides

Recent studies from this laboratory showed that tolerogenic peptide conjugates are very effective reagents for obtaining epitope-specific immunosuppression of antibody responses to immunopathogenic sites on multideterminant complex protein antigens. This paper describes the procedure for synthesis of well-defined conjugates of peptides to monomethoxypoly-ethylene glycol (mPEG) or to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The first step involves succinylation of the hydroxyl groups on the polymers by reaction with succinic anhydride. The polymer is then coupled via the carboxyl of the succinyl group to the α-NH2 of the completed peptide on the synthetic resin, while maintaining intact all the side-chain protecting groups on the peptide. The mPEG or PVA-peptide conjugates are cleaved from the resin and purified by standard procedures. This method results in the preparation of conjugates in which one molecule of tolerogenic polymer is coupled to the N-terminal of an otherwise unaltered peptide molecule.
EPR, FTIR, and FAB mass spectrometric investigation of reaction of H atoms with C60 in a cyclohexane matrix

Hydrogen atoms have been reacted with C60 in a cyclohexane matrix at 77 K in a rotating cryostat. Species HC60, H2n + 1 C60, and H2nC60 have been identified by EPR, FTIR and FAB mass spectrometry. HC60 has the magnetic parameters aH(1) = 92.9 ± 0.5 MHz and g = 2.00218 ± 0.00004. These values are compared to the deuterium and muonium analogs. Reasons for the isotope effect in the hydrogen and muon hyperfine interactions of HC60 and MuC60 are discussed. The narrow line widths of the EPR transitions of H2n + 1C60 may be associated with globe-trotting hydrogen atoms. C60 acts as a H atom sponge at high atom fluxes and H2nC60s with n as large as 17 have been identified.
Interfacial energies of coherent twin boundaries in alumina

Abstract Using thermal grooving and SEM techniques, the relative interfacial energies of coherent twins in alumina were found to vary from 0.25 to 0.39 in the temperature range of 1500–2015°C. Surface energy anisotropy effects were taken into consideration in evaluating the twin boundary energies.
Inhibition of hemoglobin S polymerization by N-terminal band 3 peptides: new class of inhibitors: solubility studies.

Two synthetic peptides corresponding to the N-terminal amino acids (AA) of band 3 were designed to inhibit deoxyhemoglobin S (deoxy S) polymerization through two different mechanisms. Peptide I, an N:1–15AA fragment, was employed to bind to the 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) receptor locus of single deoxy S molecules with 5–7 AA extending internally and the remaining 10-8 AA projecting external to hemoglobin (Hb) S, thereby inhibiting polymerization by steric hindrance. Peptide II consisted of two N:1-8AA + K (lysine) sequences linked by a coupler through the lysine, and it was employed to bind to the 2,3-DPG loci of two deoxy S molecules, tethering them together to form “binary hemoglobin complexes” incapable of entering the polymer chains. Decreased polymerization would result from reduction in effective concentration of deoxy S. Binding of peptides to the 2,3-DPG receptor loci was demonstrated by a progressive rightward shift in the hemoglobin oxygen binding curves as a function of increasing peptide concentrations. Inhibition of deoxy S polymerization was studied by equilibrium solubility measurements of purified, stripped solutions of Hb S. Physiologically significant inhibition was demonstrated for both peptides with near-maximum increases in solubility achieved by Peptide II at 1:1 peptide:Hb S ratios. These peptides represent a new class of inhibitors of deoxy S polymerization. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Behavior Modification in Primary Care: The Pressure System Model

The leading causes of death in the United States are predominantly attributable to modifiable behaviors. Patients with behavioral risk factors for premature death and disability, including dietary practices; sexual practices; level of physical activity; motor vehi cle use patterns; and tobacco, alcohol, and illicit sub stance use, are seen far more consistently by primary care providers than by mental health specialists. Yet models of behavior modification are reported, debated, and revised almost exclusively in the psychology literature. While the Stages of Change Model, or Transtheo retical Model, has won application in a broadening array of clinical settings, its application in the primary care setting is apparently quite limited despite evidence of its utility [Prochaska J, Velicer W. Am J Health Promot 1997;12:38-48]. The lack of a rigorous behavioral model developed for application in the primary care setting is an impediment to the accomplishment of public health goals specified in the Healthy People objectives and in the reports of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The Pressure System Model reported here synthesizes elements of established behavior modification theories for specific application under the constraints of the primary care setting. Use of the model in both clinical and research settings, with outcome evaluation, is encouraged as part of an effort to advance public health.
Parametric operation of a waveguide motor

A novel method of controlling speed and direction of rotation of an electric motor energised by microwaves in a waveguide is accomplished by parametric operation of the waveguide motor. The modulation frequency of microwaves determines the speed of the motor. The direction of rotation is controlled by the frequency of the microwave carrier.
Retinomorphic chips that see quadruple images

Retinomorphic chips may improve their spike-coding efficiency by emulating the primate retina's parallel pathways. To this end, I recreated retinal microcircuits in a chip, Visio1, that models the four predominant ganglion-cell types. It has 104/spl times/96 photoreceptors, 4/spl times/52/spl times/48 ganglion-cells, a die size of 9.25/spl times/9.67 mm/sup 2/ in 1.2 /spl mu/m 5V CMOS, and consumes 11.5 mW at 5 spikes/second/neuron. Visio1 includes novel subthreshold current-mode circuits that use horizontal-cell autofeedback to decouple spatiotemporal bandpass filtering from local gain control and use amacrine-cell loop-gain modulation to adapt highpass and lowpass temporal filtering. Different ganglion cells respond to motion in a stereotyped sequence, making it possible to detect edges of one contrast or the other moving in one direction or the other. The author presents results from a multichip 2-D motion architecture, which implements Watson and Ahumada's model of human visual-motion sensing.
IMMUNOLOGIC DYSFUNCTION IN CANCER

The interactions between the tumor and its host are complex, and many aspects of the immune system appear to be adversely affected directly or indirectly by the presence of the tumor. Virtually all of the processes involved in immune induction and action have been implicated in the observed deficient response in tumor-bearing patients. Improved understanding and molecular analysis of the mechanisms underlying the escape of tumors from immune surveillance may lead to the development of novel strategies for the prevention of T-cell immunosuppression in cancer patients, the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies, and potentially prevention of tumor progression or development.