cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prophenoloxidase activation in the hemolymph of Sarcophaga bullata larvae

Phenoloxidase in the hemolymph of Sarcophaga bullata larvae is present as an inactive proenzyme form. Localization studies indicate that the majority of the prophenoloxidase is present in the plasma fraction whereas only a minor fraction (about 4%) is present in the cellular compartments (hemocytes). Inactive prophenoloxidase can be activated by zymosan, not by either endotoxin or laminarin. This activation process is inhibited by the serine protease inhibitors, benzamidine and p-nitrophenyl-p∼-guanidobenzoate. Exogenously added proteases, such as chymotrypsin and subtilisin, also activated the prophenoloxidase in the whole hemolymph but failed to activate the partially purified proenzyme. However, an activating enzyme isolated from the larval cuticle, which exhibits trypsinlike specificity, activated the partially purified prophenoloxidase. Inhibition studies and activity measurements also revealed the presence of a similar activating enzyme in the hemolymph. Thus, the phenoloxidase system in Sarcophaga bullata larval hemolymph seems to be comprised of a cascade of reactions. An endogenous protease inhibitor isolated from the larvae inhibited chymotrypsin-mediated prophenoloxidase activation but failed to inhibit the cuticular activating enzyme-catalyzed activation. Based on these studies, the roles of prophenoloxidase, endogenous activating proteases, and protease inhibitor in insect immunity are discussed.
Analysis of Parasites from 19th Century Privy Contexts, Wilmington, Delaware:

This article reports the finding of parasite ova in samples from four privy features excavated in Wilmington, Delaware. The privies, from which the samples were derived, dated to a variety of time periods ranging between 1790 and 1920. The predominate parasites found were the common roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, and the whipworm, Trichuris trichura. The presence of parasite ova in privies may serve as indicators of human feces within the organic matrix and be a possible source of valuable information of the health conditions of past urban dwellers. Potential health hazards to archaeological field personnel excavating these contexts is discussed.
Quantum dots and FRET-nanobeads for probing genes, proteins, and drug targets in single cells

Quantum dots are tiny light-emitting particles on the length scale of 2–10 nm, and FRET-nanobeads for fluorophore-embedded nanoparticles on the length scale of 40–200 nm based on the phenomenon of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). These materials are emerging as a new class of biological labels with properties and applications that are not available with traditional organic dyes and fluorescent proteins. In this ASME contribution, we report new developments in using semiconductor quantum dots for quantitative imaging and spectroscopy of single cancer cells. We also show results from intracellular staining of actin filaments using FRET-nanobeads. These results raise new possibilities in disease diagnostics, drug and biochemical discovery, cancer imaging, molecular profiling, and disease staging.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Rapid Loading Stallwood Jet

The commercial models of the Stallwood Jet are useful in controlling background, stabilizing arcs, and increasing the sensitivity of certain elements. However, these devices are generally awkward to use since the apparatus must be disassembled to change samples.
Optical Properties of Human Cone Photoreceptors Revealed with Adaptive Optics

AO has generated details regarding optics and arrangement of human cones, but questions remain about the source and variability of cone reflections. I will present our research on these properties in normal and diseased eyes.
PROPHYLACTIC INDOMETHACIN: EFFECT ON PULMONARY HEMORRHAGE & BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA IN SURFACTANT-TREATED INFANTS <1250 GRAMS.† 1203

PROPHYLACTIC INDOMETHACIN: EFFECT ON PULMONARY HEMORRHAGE & BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA IN SURFACTANT-TREATED INFANTS <1250 GRAMS.† 1203
A new CF-IRMS system for quantifying stable isotopes of carbon monoxide from ice cores and small air samples

Abstract. We present a new analysis technique for stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ18O) of atmospheric carbon monoxide (CO) from ice core samples. The technique is an online cryogenic vacuum extraction followed by continuous-flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (CF-IRMS); it can also be used with small air samples. The CO extraction system includes two multi-loop cryogenic cleanup traps, a chemical oxidant for oxidation to CO2, a cryogenic collection trap, a cryofocusing unit, gas chromatography purification, and subsequent injection into a Finnigan Delta Plus IRMS. Analytical precision of 0.2‰ (±1δ) for δ13C and 0.6‰ (±1δ) for δ18O can be obtained for 100 mL (STP) air samples with CO mixing ratios ranging from 60 ppbv to 140 ppbv (~268–625 pmol CO). Six South Pole ice core samples from depths ranging from 133 m to 177 m were processed for CO isotope analysis after wet extraction. To our knowledge, this is the first measurement of stable isotopes of CO in ice core air.
Chromogranin A: Immunohistology reveals its universal occurrence in normal polypeptide hormone producing endocrine glands

Abstract Chromogranin A is the major soluble protein costored and co-released with catecholamines from catecholamine storage vesicles of adrenal medulla and sympathetic nerve. We recently described a widespread distribution of chromogranin, by radioimmunoassay, in all polypeptide hormone producing tissues. To define the microanatomy of this distribution, we studied the immunohistology of chromogranin in normal bovine endocrine tissues using an antibody directed against bovine chromogranin A. The indirect anti-peroxidase technique was used, with a protein A bridge. Chromogranin staining was ubiquitous in polypeptide hormone producing endocrine tissues, and the staining was specific as judged by blockade of the staining reaction by preadsorption of the specific antiserum with purified bovine chromogranin A. Staining was present in adrenal medullary chromaffin cells, thyroid parafollicular C cells, parathyroid chief cells, pancreatic islet cells, intestinal enteroendocrine cells, and anterior pituitary cells. Staining was absent from the exocrine portions of these tissues, and from purely exocrine tissues. Thus, chromogranin may have a widespread, though as yet undefined, role in the neuroendocrine secretory process.
On Methods of Determining Specific Yield

A comparative discussion of several methods for the determination of specific yield is presented. The discussion relies on a pumping test conducted recently by Nwankwor and coworkers from the University of Waterloo in an unconfined aquifer at Borden, Ontario, Canada. We show that a water-balance method promulgated by these workers and used earlier by others, including Wenzel in 1942 and 1946, is invalid because it overlooks a major component of the water budget. This method suggests erroneously that specific yield increases with time during a pumping test. The method can therefore lead to arbitrarily large specific yield values which may lack physical significance. By relying on this water-balance method and on laboratory drainage experiments, Nwankwor and coworkers conclude incorrectly that type-curve methods, such as those proposed by Prickett in 1965 and Neuman in 1975, give unreasonably low specific yield values. We show instead that these specific yield values are consistent with water-balance considerations when all the components of the water budget are properly taken into account. We further point out that whereas the larger specific yields usually obtained from laboratory drainage experiments may be well suited for the evaluation of ground-water reserves that can potentially be recovered from an unconfined aquifer over long periods of time, they are not directly relevant to the problem of relating ground-water level variations to pumpage which is characterized by a shorter time scale. This is especially true when specific yield is taken to be the difference between water content at saturation and residual water content at high suctions as done by Nwankwor and coworkers. The rate at which ground-water levels drop or fluctuate in response to pumpage is controlled by the smaller specific yield that one obtains from time-drawdown analyses.
Effect of Rehydration Fluid With 75 mmol/L of Sodium on Serum Sodium Concentration and Serum Osmolality in Young Patients With Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Objective To evaluate whether rehydration of young patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) by use of a solution that contained 75 mmol/L of sodium would be associated with a decline in serum sodium concentrations. Design We retrospectively studied 18 episodes of moderate to severe DKA (mean plasma bicarbonate concentration of 7.8 ± 0.9 mmol/L) in 17 patients younger than 18 years of age who had been examined at the Mayo Clinic between 1986 and 1990. Material and Methods All patients had received an initial fluid bolus (about 20 mL/kg) of 0.9% saline or Ringer's lactate (or both), followed by rehydration with solutions that contained 75 mmol/L of sodium at rates of approximately 3,000 mL/m 2 per day. Mean corrected and uncorrected serum sodium concentrations and effective serum osmolality (before and after administration of the fluid bolus and at 6 and 12 hours into treatment) were compared by use of the paired Student t test. Results After 12 hours of therapy, we found a significant increase in the mean uncorrected serum sodium level from 135.1 ± 0.9 mmol/L to 138.1 ± 0.7 mmol/L ( P Conclusion In 18 episodes of DKA in young patients, rehydration with fluids that contained 75 mmol/L of sodium at rates of approximately 3,000 mL/m 2 per day after administration of a fluid bolus of 0.9% saline or Ringer's lactate (or both) was not associated with a decline in the uncorrected serum sodium concentration.
Void profiles in unidirectional solidification - The role of capillary forces and gravity

Some of the effects of capillary forces and the solid-liquid contact angle have been incorporated into previously known solutions for solidification shrinkage void profiles. Comparisons are then drawn between the original profiles from the literature and the modified capillary result. Since the capillary rise is a function of the gravitational acceleration, the new solution could also be extended down to reduced gravity conditions. We feel these results will lead to a better understanding of solidificatio n shrinkage void shapes in a variety of circumstances.
Small Aperture Angle Measurement for Active Echo Location Systems

The problem of bearing estimation for active systems is examined from the point of view of the generalized wideband ambiguity function (GAF). The maximum likelihood (ML) estimator is derived and its local and global properties are discussed. A structure is proposed which searches the three-dimensional ambiguity surface in two stages first, in range-Doppler, and then, in bearing with the goal of reducing search complexity when utilizing highly resolvent waveforms. Comparisons are made between the ML estimators and structures utilizing phase information which generate closed form estimators. The beneficial results of full bandwidth utilization are discussed in terms of both local and global properties of the GAF.
Deep-sea zeolites: variations in space and time in the sediments of the Indian Ocean☆

Abstract In the Indian Ocean, the zeolite phillipsite is often found in Miocene and younger sediments and is confined to the central areas of the sea floor. This zeolite forms from the alteration of basic volcanic material and does not require much time for its formation. Another zeolite, clinoptilolite, however, is most often restricted to Cretaceous to Eocene sediments in areas closer to the continental land masses. This distribution in space and time is thought to be due to the availability of silicic volcanics during the early formation of the Indian Ocean in the Cretaceous to Eocene time. The mobilization of silica from opal-rich sediments during these times may also have been an important factor in the formation of clinoptilolite.
Advanced high-bandwidth optical fuzing technology

A robust and compact photonic proximity sensor is developed for optical fuze in munitions applications. The design of the optical fuze employed advanced optoelectronic technologies including high-power vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), the p-i-n or metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) photodetectors, SiGe ASIC driver, and miniature optics. The development combines pioneering work and unique expertise at ARDEC, ARL, and Sandia National Laboratories and synergizes the key optoelectronic technologies in components and system designs. This compact sensor will replace conventional costly assemblies based on discrete lasers, photodetectors, and bulky optics and provide a new capability for direct fire applications. It will be mass manufacturable in low cost and simplicity. In addition to the specific applications for gun-fired munitions, numerous civilian uses can be realized by this proximity sensor in automotive, robotics, and aerospace applications. This technology is also applicable to robotic ladar and short-range 3-D imaging.
An error-correcting syntactic decoder for computer networks

An information source that generates messages with formal syntactic structures is proposed. It is modeled as a context-free grammar in Chomsky Normal Form. The messages are binary coded with or without error-correction capabilities, and are transmitted over a memoryless symmetric noisy channel. At the receiver, an algorithmic procedure is proposed for the correction of syntactic errors in the incoming messages. This is similar to the Cocke-Younger-Kasami parser with the additional capability of detecting and correcting syntactic errors in the input strings. Simulation results are presented which show that the present syntactic decoding scheme has a lower probability of decoding errors than conventional algebraic decoding schemes. Its performance is also compared with that of an alternate syntactic decoder studied recently.
TNF-α-dependent Regulation of Acute Pancreatitis Severity by Ly-6Chi Monocytes in Mice

The roles of monocytes/macrophages and their mechanisms of action in the regulation of pancreatitis are poorly understood. To address these issues, we have employed genetically altered mouse strains that either express the human diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR) coupled to the CD11b promoter or have global deletion of TNF-α. Targeted, conditional depletion of monocytes/macrophages was achieved by administration of diphtheria toxin (DT) to CD11b-DTR mice. We show that in the absence of DT administration, pancreatitis is associated with an increase in pancreatic content of Ly-6Chi monocytes/macrophages but that this response is prevented by prior administration of DT to CD11b-DTR mice. DT administration also reduces pancreatic edema and acinar cell injury/necrosis in two dissimilar experimental models of acute pancreatitis (a secretagogue-induced model and a model elicited by retrograde pancreatic duct infusion of sodium taurocholate). In the secretagogue-elicited model, the DT-induced decrease in pancreatitis severity is reversed by adoptive transfer of purified Ly-6Chi monocytes harvested from non-DT-treated CD11b-DTR mice or by the transfer of purified Ly-6Chi monocytes harvested from TNF-α+/+ donor mice, but it is not reversed by the transfer of Ly-6Chi monocytes harvested from TNF-α−/− donors. Our studies indicate that the Ly-6Chi monocyte subset regulates the severity of pancreatitis by promoting pancreatic edema and acinar cell injury/necrosis and that this phenomenon is dependent upon the expression of TNF-α by those cells. They suggest that therapies targeting Ly-6Chi monocytes and/or TNF-α expression by Ly-6Chi monocytes might prove beneficial in the prevention or treatment of acute pancreatitis.
Identifying Social Interactions Through Conditional Variance Restrictions

This paper proposes a new method for identifying social interactions using conditional variance restrictions. The method provides a consistent estimate of the social multiplier when social interactions take the “linear-in-means” form (Manski (1993)). When social interactions are not of the linear-in-means form, the estimator, under certain conditions, continues to form the basis of a consistent test of the no social interactions null with correct large sample size. The methods are illustrated using data from the Tennessee class size reduction experiment Project STAR. The application suggests that differences in peer group quality were an important source of individual-level variation in the academic achievement of Project STAR kindergarten students.
Acute pancreatitis associated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

Excerpt Although a number of therapeutic agents have been associated with acute pancreatitis, carefully documented cases showing recurrence of pancreatitis after reexposure are few. We report the c...
ON THE OBSERVABILITY OF THE SIGNS OF THE STRONG INTERACTION COUPLING CONSTANTS

Criteria are given for the observability of the signs of coupling constants appearing in elementary particle interactions. The results are applied to particular strong interaction Lagrangians. For a commonly considered meson-baryon interaction with eight coupling constants, it is shown that only four (independent) relative signs are observable. The signs of the coupling constants in certain meson-meson interactions are discussed briefly. Some difficulties in measuring the observable signs are mentioned.
Do gravitational lens galaxies have an excess of luminous substructure

Strong gravitational lensing can be used to directly measure the mass function of their satellites, thus testing one of the fundamental predictions of cold dark matter cosmological models. Given the importance of this test it is essential to ensure that galaxies acting as strong lenses have dark and luminous satellites which are representative of the overall galaxy population. We address this issue by measuring the number and spatial distribution of luminous satellites in ACS imaging around lens galaxies from the Sloan Lens Advanced Camera for Surveys (SLACS) lenses, and comparing them with the satellite population in ACS imaging of non lens galaxies selected from COSMOS, which has similar depth and resolution to the ACS images of SLACS lenses. In order to compare the samples of lens and non lens galaxies, which have intrinsically different stellar mass distributions, we measure, for the first time, the number of satellites per host as a continuous function of host stellar mass for both populations. We find that the number of satellites as a function of host stellar mass, as well as the spatial distribution are consistent between the samples. Using these results, we predict the number of satellites we would expect to find around a subset of the Cosmic Lens All Sky Survey (CLASS) lenses, and find a result consistent with the the number observed by Jackson et al. 2010. Thus we conclude that within our measurement uncertainties there is no significant difference in the satellite populations of lens and non lens galaxies.
Predictive streamflow uncertainty in relation to calibration‐constraint information, model complexity, and model bias

Abstract Reliance on basin models by hydrologists to study the effects of changing landscapes on sustainability of water resources is increasing. The success of basin models to provide reliable predictions depends on adequacy of the calibrated model and residual model uncertainty. In this paper, reductions in predictive streamflow uncertainty are demonstrated using streamflow quantities integrated over different sample frequencies as calibration constraints and iterative updating of prior information. Respective model‐quality results in terms of coefficient of model‐fit efficiencies for cases using published parameter values and no calibration, traditional calibration constrained by daily streamflow measurements, and calibration constrained by various derived streamflow quantities were ‐0.44 (very poor), 0.66 (fair), and 0.66 (fair) to 0.91 (excellent). Incrementally reducing the number of active excellent‐quality‐model parameters (from 130 to 6 parameters) reduced the range of uncertainty (from 287.7 m3 ...
GStreamer as a framework for image processing applications in image fusion

Multiple source band image fusion can sometimes be a multi-step process that consists of several intermediate image processing steps. Typically, each of these steps is required to be in a particular arrangement in order to produce a unique output image. GStreamer is an open source, cross platform multimedia framework, and using this framework, engineers at NVESD have produced a software package that allows for real time manipulation of processing steps for rapid prototyping in image fusion.
Gray skeletons and segmentation of shapes

Noise presents a major difficulty in implementing various methods of shape analysis currently in use. A way to deal with this problem is to presmooth shapes. However, this is problematic on several counts. It makes extensions to 3D shapes difficult. The shape may lack sufficiently many pixels in its narrow regions for computing high-order smoothing operators. How constructs such as shape skeletons are affected by smoothing is not at all clear. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate a new approach to shape analysis which does not require presmoothing of the shape. The basic tool is the ''gray skeleton'' which is the shape skeleton whose points are associated with significance numbers. A pruning method is developed for extracting a ''noise-free'' skeleton from the gray skeleton. The problem of segmenting shapes is addressed by formulating a segmetation functional in terms of gray skeletons. Fast algorithms for computing and pruning gray skeletons, and for finding an approximate minimum of the segmentation functional make the approach practical to implement.
Tuberculin hypersensitivity associated with immunization of guinea pigs with Candida albicans and the presence of this organism in normal guinea pigs.

Guinea pigs immunized withC. albicans may develop tuberculin hypersensitivity, possibly depending upon the strain ofC. albicans used for immunization. An animal colony found to be grossly contaminated withC. albicans showed a concomitant increase in positive Candida and tuberculin reactions in normal animals. The organism was isolated from the intestinal tract of a majority of these animals. The possibility of concurrent, unobserved contamination of guinea pigs with members of the mycobacteria cannot be excluded. Other animal colonies were noted to have varying numbers of carriers ofC. albicans, depending largely on the age and conditions under which the animals were housed.
DISENTANGLING NEBULAR AND ASTEROIDAL FEATURES OF CO3 CARBONACEOUS CHONDRITE METEORITES

Ten carbonaceous CO3 chondrites (including four chondrites from Antarctica and the Colony, Isna, Kainsaz, Lance , Ornans, and Warrenton chondrites) were analyzed with respect to mean compositions of olivines and low-Ca pyroxenes in order to distinguish the primary nebular features of these chondrites from the secondary (asteroidal or nebular) features. In three of the Antarctic chondrites, matrices and metal grains were analyzed in order to investigate the origin of mineralogical trends in the CO3 sequence. Based on these results, the CO3 chondrites were classified into subtypes 3.0-3.7. In the silicates of chondrites ALH A77307 and Colony, classified as type 3.0, metamorphic effects appear to be absent. Chemical and mineralogical studies suggest that the type 3.1 to 3.7 CO chondrites represent a metamorphic sequence that formed from material closely resembling type 3.0 CO chondrites by metamorphism in one or more planetesimals or asteroids, not by interactions between chondritic ingredients in the solar nebula.
A review of the calculation of ocean currents at the equator

Abstract Wind stress and horizontal pressure gradient at the equator have been used in the calculation of velocity. Various formulae are considered from the standpoint of consistency with an undercurrent A simple relation between the east-west pressure gradient and the curvature of the velocity profile yields an undercurrent, but application is uncertain because of neglect of accelerations. The most promising formula appears to be that derived from the geostrophic approximation for zonal motion. Both friction and acceleration appear to be important in the dynamics of the Equatorial Undercurrent.
Effect of brainstem lesions on stress-induced corticosteroid release in female rats.

Five days after unilateral adrenalectomy and placement of brainstem lesions, 16 ♀ rats were subjected to laparotomy and adrenal vein cannulation. Effluent corticosteroid levels, as measured chromatographically and colorimetrically, varied relative to the lesion site. At the rostral pons level, dorsal as well as ventral tegmental lesions were associated with high initial (0–15 minutes) release levels of corticosteroids into the adrenal venous effluent. Dorsal tegmental lesions were associated with an augmented corticosteroid release following acute stress while ventral tegmental lesions inhibited this response. Neither lesion site significantly altered compensatory adrenal hypertrophy.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia with upper airway obstruction

We report a case of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia in a 58 year old female in whom the clinical course was dominated by upper airway obstruction due to massive enlargement of the palatine and later the lingual tonsils. The peripheral blood morphology and immunophenotype were typical of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia with expression of CD 19+, CD20+, CDS+, CD23+ and HLA-DR+ together with weak, surface immunoglobulin with monoclonal lambda light chain. Therapy included surgical removal of the palatine tonsils and later chemotherapy, both of which provided temporary relief of obstruction before recurrence of obstruction at the site of the lingual tonsils. Lasting relief from mass effect and obstruction only occurred following localised radiotherapy to Waldeyer's ring.
Dopamine uptake and cocaine binding mechanisms: The involvement of charged amino acids from the transmembrane domains of the human dopamine transporter

The wild type human dopamine transporter (DAT) and five DAT mutants were transfected into COS-7 cells and their ability to uptake dopamine or to bind cocaine was examine three days later. In each mutant, a single charged amino acid, located in areas that initial hydrophobic analysis had indicated were DAT transmembrane domains was substituted by alanine. Mutants used in this study were lysines 257 and 525 (termed K257A and K525A), arginines 283 and 521 (termed R283A and R521A), and glutamate 491 (termed E491A). Dopamine affinity was significantly enhanced in the K257A and R283A mutants, and the IC(50) for displacement of the radioactive cocaine analog 2 beta-carbomethoxy-3 beta-(4-fluorophenyl)tropane (CFT) by cocaine was significantly elevated in the E491A mutant. All mutants displayed a reduction or complete loss of the maximal velocity (V(m)) of dopamine transport.
Role of hypergastrinemia in the antiatrophy effect of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin on oxyntic gland mucosa of the rat stomach.

Atrophy of the gastrointestinal mucosa that occurs in pair-fed control rats is not observed in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-treated rats (1). Our objective was to determine if the gastrointestinal trophic hormone, gastrin, is involved in the antiatrophy effect of TCDD on the gut mucosa. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats treated with 100 μg/kg of TCDD were slightly hypergastrinemic 7 days after dosing and markedly hypergastrinemic 14 days after treatment whereas pair-fed control rats were normogastrinemic. After 14 days of feed restriction, atrophy of the oxyntic gland and ileum mucosa occurred in pair-fed control rats but only atrophy of the ileum mucosa developed in TCDD-treated animals. The oxyntic gland mucosa of TCDD-treated rats was protected from mucosa atrophy as well as from mucosa erosions. The protection against feed restriction-induced atrophy was demonstrated by measurements of oxyntic gland mucosal height and DNA and protein content. Since hypergastrinemia stimulates growth of oxyntic gland mucosa, but not ileum mucosa, the antiatrophy effect of TCDD on mucosa of the oxyntic gland might in part be due to hypergastrinemia. In support of this interpretation, TCDD treatment exerted an antiatrophy effect on the oxyntic gland mucosa only when TCDD-treated animals were hypergastrinemic. For example, hypergas-trinemia does not develop within the first 48 hr after TCDD administration, and TCDD treatment affords no protection against fasting-induced atrophy of the oxyntic gland mucosa during this time. On the other hand, the ability of TCDD treatment to protect against feed restriction-induced erosions of the oxyntic gland mucosa might be mediated by hypergastrinemia since these events occur at a later time. It is unlikely, however, that increased gastric mucosa production of cytoprotective prostaglandins is involved in the antierosion action of TCDD, because TCDD treatment does not protect the oxyntic gland mucosa against ethanol- or indomethacin-induced erosions. The significance of these findings is that this is one of the first reports of a gastrointestinal trophic hormone, gastrin, being involved in the mechanism of action of TCDD.
Stark tuning of the atomic vapor quantum counter

The atomic vapor quantum counter (AVQC) offers the potential for efficient upconversion of narrow-band IR radiation. This paper explores wavelength tuning of the AVQC by the application of an electric field (Stark effect). Model calculations indicate the Stark effect in combination with the proper selection of IR transitions in the atomic vapor can yield continuous tuning across the entire 2-20 \mu m spectral region. Experimental results near 10 μm have demonstrated over 23 cm-1tuning on a single potassium vapor transition. Thirteen CO 2 laser wavelengths were scanned in this fashion.
Transfer coefficients of fallout cesium-137 to milk of dairy cattle fed pasture, green-cut alfalfa, or stored feed.

Abstract The transfer coefficient (per cent intake per liter of milk) of fallout 137 Cs was measured in the University herd under three feeding conditions. Groups of about ten Holstein cows were pastured for three summers and received supplemental alfalfa hay and grain. The entire University herd of about 100 cows of four breeds was studied during the winter feeding period, when they received alfalfa hay, corn silage, and a grain mix. Eight Holsteins were fed alfalfa cut daily, together with small amounts of hay and grain according to production. All 137 Cs demonstrations were made by gamma-ray spectrometry. The transfer coefficient was found to average 0.35 under pasture feeding conditions during the summers of 1962, 1963, and 1964. A mean of 0.41 was found during the winter feeding period of 1963, and a value of 0.25 when green-cut alfalfa was fed in the summer of 1965. The range in values was lowest for the dry-lot trial in which no breed effect was evident. Within treatments the level of crude fiber intake was not related to transfer coefficient.
Development of the Porcine Fetal Adrenal in Late Gestation

Porcine fetal adrenal development at Days 89, 97, 105, and 113 of gestation was investigated. Cortisol secretion by fetal adrenal slices in vitro paralleled fetal plasma cortisol levels previously reported by other investigators, with the greatest increase in both occurring during the last week of gestation. Neither the ACTH dose-response nor the proportional increase in cortisol secretion in response to a maximal dose of ACTH changed from Day 89 to term. At all ages examined, homologous fetal pituitary homogenate had the same effect on cortisol production as a maximal dose of ACTH. Adrenal cortex ultrastructure appeared well developed from Day 89 on. Adrenal weight increased faster than fetal weight, especially between Days 105 and 113. This increase was primarily due to hyperplasia in the adrenal cortex zona fasciculata, although some hypertrophy occurred as well. The increase in cortisol secretion in vitro between Days 89 and 105 could be completely accounted for by adrenal cortex growth. From Days 89 to 105, the cortisol :corticosterone ratio as determined by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) was 1.1 ± 0.3, but increased (P>0.05) to 4.8 ± 0.5 by Day 113. It appears, therefore, that the major adrenal changes contributing to increased cortisol production are 1) mitotic activity in the zona fa.sciculata which increases as term approaches, and 2) increased secretion of cortisol in proportion to other steroids in the last week of gestation.
Within-Breath Control of Genioglossal Muscle Activation in Humans: Effect of Sleep-Wake State

Pharyngeal dilator muscles are clearly important in the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Substantial data support the role of a local negative pressure reflex in modifying genioglossal activation across inspiration during wakefulness. Using a model of passive negative pressure ventilation, we have previously reported a tight relationship between varying intrapharyngeal negative pressures and genioglossal muscle activation (GGEMG) during wakefulness. In this study, we used this model to examine the slope of the relationship between epiglottic pressure (Pepi) and GGEMG, during stable NREM sleep and the transition from wakefulness to sleep. We found that there was a constant relationship between negative epiglottic pressure and GGEMG during both basal breathing (BB) and negative pressure ventilation (NPV) during wakefulness (slope GGEMG/Pepi 1.86 ± 0.3 vs. 1.79 ± 0.3 arbitrary units (a.u.) cmH2O−1). However, while this relationship remained stable during NREM sleep during BB, it was markedly reduced during NPV during sleep (2.27 ± 0.4 vs. 0.58 ± 0.1 a.u. cmH2O−1). This was associated with a markedly higher pharyngeal airflow resistance during sleep during NPV. At the transition from wakefulness to sleep there was also a greater reduction in peak GGEMG seen during NPV than during BB. These data suggest that while the negative pressure reflex is able to maintain GGEMG during passive NPV during wakefulness, this reflex is unable to do so during sleep. The loss of this protective mechanism during sleep suggests that an airway dependent upon such mechanisms (as in the patient with sleep apnoea) will be prone to collapse during sleep.
Stereotactically guided endoscopic port surgery for intraventricular tumor and colloid cyst resection.

BACKGROUND: Intraventricular lesions are challenging entities that may be difficult to resect completely and safely, especially larger lesions with high vascularity or firm consistency. OBJECTIVE: To assess the results of stereotactically guided endoscopic port (SEP) surgery for resection of colloid cysts and intraventricular tumors. METHODS: The authors developed a minimally invasive microsurgical technique for intraventricular surgery using parallel endoscopy to visualize the lesion. Surgical resection was performed via an 11.5-mm transparent conduit (Neuroendoport) deployed under stereotactic guidance. Forty-seven consecutive cases were performed, and all had a minimum 1-year follow-up to assess the efficacy of the technique. RESULTS: For colloid cysts, gross total resection was achieved in 31 (96.9%) of the 32 cases. The transient neurologic morbidity rate was 9.4%; no permanent neurologic morbidity occurred. For intraventricular tumors, gross or near total resection was achieved in 80% of cases. The transient neurological morbidity rate was 6.7%, and no permanent neurological morbidity occurred. CONCLUSION: SEP surgery for colloid cysts and intraventricular tumors proved to be a safe and effective alternative to conventional microsurgical resection. This technique was not limited by the vascularity, friability, or size of any of the lesions.
Elementary, my dear Wason: the role of problem representation in the THOG task.

The present study was concerned with Wason's THOG problem, a hypothetico-deductive reasoning task for which performance over the past 20 years has typically been very poor (<20% correct). We examined the hypothesis that incorporating a quasi-visual context into the problem statement would make both the binary, symmetric tree structure and solution principle of the THOG task clearer and thus facilitate performance. A version of O'Brien et al.'s (Q J Exp Psychol 42A:329–351) Blackboard THOG problem, that specifies each branch of the tree by describing a specific location for each possible color-shape combination, was used to test this hypothesis. Substantial facilitation was both observed (68% correct) and replicated (73% correct), and it was also shown that it is necessary to provide a representation of both sides of the tree to obtain this level of facilitation. The implications of these results for human deductive reasoning are considered.
pH-dependent domain formation in phosphatidylinositol polyphosphate/phosphatidylcholine mixed vesicles

Phosphatidylinositol polyphosphates (PI-PPs) have been shown to mediate a large variety of physiological processes by attracting proteins to specific cellular sites. Such site-specific signaling requires local accumulation of PI-PPs, and in light of the rich headgroup functionality, it is conceivable that hydrogen bond formation between adjacent headgroups is a contributing factor to the formation of PI-PP-enriched domains. To explore the significance of hydrogen bond formation for the mutual interaction of PI-PPs, this study aims to characterize the pH-dependent phase behavior of phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate and trisphosphate mixed vesicles by differential scanning calorimetry, infrared transmission spectroscopy, and fluorescence resonance energy transfer measurements. For pH values >7-7.5, the experiments yielded results consistent with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine/dipalmitoylphosphatidylinositol polyphosphate gel phase demixing, whereas for moderately acidic conditions, an enhanced mixing was observed. Similarly, this pH-dependent formation of PI-PP-enriched domains was also found for the physiologically important fluid phase. The stability of PI-PP-enriched domains and to some extent the pH dependence of the domain formation was governed by the number as well as the position of the phosphomonoester groups at the inositol ring.
Regioselective synthesis of the tricyclic core of lateriflorone.

An efficient synthetic approach to the tricyclic core 8 of lateriflorone is described. Essential to the synthesis was the implementation of a biomimetic tandem Claisen/Diels−Alder reaction that pro...
Decay Estimates for Fourth Order Wave Equations

may be thought of as a nonlinear beam equation. In this paper we obtain both L-L estimates and space-time integrability estimates on solutions to the linear equation. We also use these estimates to study the local existence and asymptotic behavior of solutions to the nonlinear equation, for nonlinear terms which grow like a certain power of u. The main L-L estimate (Theorem 2.1) states that solutions of the linear equation with initial data (u(0), ut(0)) in W 2,q(Rn) ⊕ Lq(Rn) are bounded in L(R) ⊕ W−2,q(Rn) for 2 ≤ q ≤ 2∗∗ for all time and that their norm in this space decays at the (optimal) rate t n 2q−4 . Here and throughout 2∗∗ = { 2n n−4 for n ≥ 5 ∞ for 1 ≤ n ≤ 4 (1.2)
Three-dimensional fiber reinforcement shapes obtainable from flat, bidirectional fabrics without wrinkling or cutting. Part 2: a single n-sided pyramid, cone, or round box

Abstract Criteria are derived for the adoption, without wrinkling or having to be cut, of the shapes of regular and truncated n-sided pyramids, cones, and round boxes by bidirectional fabrics. The flat surfaces of pyramids result in distinct deformation zones that can be compared with experiment and allow simple geometrical visualization and explanations. Only trellis shear, the major mode of fabric deformation, was considered. As with four-sided pyramids, the criterion for a fabric to cover a non-truncated n-sided pyramid is a match in angles between the fabric and the pyramid. Needing to be matched are the sum of angles of the n faces and the sum of angles of the four quadrants of the fabric that are determined by the two fibers crossing at the apex. The fabric is least deformed everywhere when the fabric is given the same deformation over the entire surface of the pyramid. The covering of a cone is analogous with n→∞. For truncated pyramids and prisms, the fabric deformation is never uniform. With deformation increasing away from the top surface, short truncated pyramids can be covered without wrinkling even when a taller pyramid having sides of similar steepness cannot. The rules for covering a truncated pyramid or prism and the first appearance on the side of specific degrees of fabric deformation are derived.
Secondary subaortic stenosis in heart defects without any initial subaortic obstruction: a multifactorial postoperative event.

Background/Objective: Secondary subaortic stenosis (SSS) can occur after surgery for various congenital heart defects with or without initial left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). The objective of this study was to highlight the anatomical lesions and surgical procedures associated with the development of SSS after surgery on defects without initial LVOTO. Methods: A retrospective study of 4710 patients was performed (1984—2005). The criterion for inclusion was a fixed subaortic obstruction requiring surgery, after an open- or closed-heart operation. The criterion for exclusion was an LVOTO at the time of the first operation. Results: Twenty-eight patients were studied. The mean age at initial surgery was 32 months (4 days—47 years; median: 2 months). SSS occurred after three main types of surgery: repair of coarctation of the aorta, repair of AVSD and LV—aorta rerouting for double outlet right ventricle or transposition of great arteries. The mean delay of occurrence was 4.4 years (2 months—19 years). Frequently associated initial anatomical conditions were coarctation of the aorta (40%), lesions of the mitral valve (32%),bicuspidaortic valve (21%) and left superiorvena cava (LSVC) (14%). Preoperative anatomical lesions of the LVOTwere present in 93% of the cases. After the initial operation, only one patient had a mean echo-Doppler pressure gradient across the LVOT > 20 mmHg. SSS was most frequently a subaortic membrane (n = 23). The mean pressure gradient across SSS at the time of reoperation was 47 29 mmHg. Five patients developed a second SSS after 7.4 years (mean). One patient developed a third SSS. No patient died. When compared with patients without SSS, significant risk factors for SSS were low age at surgery (32 vs 74.9 months, p < 10 4 ), pre-existing coarctation of the aorta (40 vs 10%, p < 10 4 ), bicuspid aortic valve (21 vs 6%, p = 0.002) and LSVC (14 vs 4%, p = 0.02). Conclusions: SSS development is multifactorial, depending on initial anatomical lesions and initial surgery. Low age at initial surgery, coarctation of the aorta, bicuspid aortic valve and LSVC significantly increase the risk of SSS. These elements warrant long-term follow-up for early detection of SSS. # 2007 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Diagnostic laparoscopy for the evaluation of occult diaphragmatic injury following penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma

Summary Background Occult diaphragmatic injury following penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma can be difficult to diagnose. Radiographic findings are often non-specific or absent. Undetected injuries may remain clinically silent, only to present later with life-threatening complications associated with diaphragmatic herniation. Diagnostic laparoscopy allows for the evaluation of trauma patients lacking clinical indications for a formal laparotomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of occult diaphragmatic injury and investigate the role of laparoscopy in patients with penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma who lack indications for exploratory laparotomy except the potential for a diaphragmatic injury. Methods Haemodynamically stable patients with penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma without indications for laparotomy (haemodynamic instability, evisceration, or peritonitis on exam) and evaluated with diagnostic laparoscopy to determine the presence of a diaphragmatic injury were retrospectively reviewed. Thoracoabdominal wounds were defined as wounds bounded by the nipple line over the anterior and posterior chest superiorly and the costal margin inferiorly. Results One hundred and eight patients were evaluated for penetrating thoracoabdominal injuries (80 stabs and 28 gunshots) over the study period. 22 (20%) diaphragmatic injuries were identified. These were associated with injuries to the spleen (5), stomach (3) and liver (2). There was a greater incidence of haemopneumothorax (HPTX) in patients with diaphragmatic injury (32%) compared to those without injury (20%). 29% of patients with a HPTX had a diaphragmatic injury. However, 18% of patients with a normal chest radiograph were also found to have a diaphragmatic injury. Conclusions The incidence of diaphragmatic injury associated with penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma is high. Clinical and radiographic findings can be unreliable for detecting occult diaphragmatic injury. Diagnostic laparoscopy provides a vital tool for detecting occult diaphragmatic injury among patients who have no other indications for formal laparotomy.
Relational aggression: The role of intent attributions, feelings of distress, and provocation type

In recent research a relationally oriented form of aggression has been identified that, in contrast to overt aggression that harms others through physical means (e.g., hitting), harms others through damage to their peer relationships (e.g., angrily retaliating against a peer by excluding her from one's play group). The goal this research was to assess the role of intent attributions, feelings of distress, and provocation type (relational vs. instrumental) in children's relationally aggressive behavior. A total of 252 third- through sixth-grade children participated as subjects. A hypothetical provocation instrument was used to assess children's intent attributions and feelings of distress for ambiguous relational and instrumental provocation situations. Results showed that, as hypothesized, relationally aggressive children exhibited a hostile attributional bias and reported significantly higher levels of distress than did their nonaggressive peers for relational provocation situations. In addition, girls reported significantly higher levels of distress than did boys for relational provocation situations. Further, a comorbid group of relationally plus overtly aggressive children also exhibited a hostile attributional bias; however, their bias was evident for instrumental provocation situations only.
Adaptive Notch Filter Using Real-Time Parameter Estimation

The control of flexible systems is often difficult due to the exact frequencies of the elastic modes being hard to identify. These flexible modes may change over time, or vary between units of the same system. The variation in the modal dynamics may cause a degradation in performance or even instabilities unless compensated for by the control scheme. Controllers designed for these types of systems use notch filters for suppression, however variation in the parameters of the flexible modes cause the need for wide notch filters. An adaptive scheme is proposed which uses an online estimator based on plant parameterization. Since the estimator is able to identify the modal dynamics, an adaptive notch filter is able to track an incorrectly modeled or varying flexible mode. The adaptive notch filter can be designed narrower, adding less phase lag at lower frequencies, thereby allowing an increase in bandwidth and disturbance rejection capability. Simulation and experimental verification of the adaptive mode suppression scheme is given through the use of a laser beam pointing system. The adaptive scheme is compared to a nonadaptive scheme, and is able to decrease the standard deviation of the experimentally measured tracking error by 14% even when the flexible dynamics are unknown.