cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Charge-Deposition Spectra in Thin Slabs of Silicon Induced by Energetic Protons

Pulse-height spectra were measured in thin slabs of silicon (2.4 to 97 ?m) exposed to protons incident at energies from 25 MeV to 158 MeV at the Harvard Cyclotron. The data is compared to the predictions of the simulation model of Farrell and McNulty and shown to be in good agreement over the range of detector thicknesses and proton energies tested. The probability of depositing a given energy in an event was found to decrease exponentially with the amount of energy to be deposited. This probability, corresponding to the negative slope on a semilogarithmic plot depends on the dimensions of the sensitive volume and the energy of the incident proton.
903-9 Effectiveness of Recombinant Hirulog®in Reducing Restenosis After Balloon Angioplasty in the Atherosclerotic Rabbit

Thrombin may play a central role in restenosis after balloon angioplasty (BA), and angiographic and pathologic restenosis have been shown to be reduced in the rabbit model using recombinant desulfatohirudin, a selective thrombin inhibitor. We hypothesized that an intravenous infusion of hirulog, a 20 amino acid potent and selective thrombin inhibitor, given at the time of angioplasty would reduce restenosis in the atherosclerotic rabbit model. Focal femoral atherosclerosis was induced in 27 rabbits by air desiccation endothelial injury followed by a 2% cholesterol diet for 1 month. At BA (2.5 mm balloon with three 60-second, 10 atm inflations 60 seconds apart), rabbits received either heparin (150 units/kg bolus, n = 14) or hirulog (5 mg/kg bolus followed by 5 mg/kg/hr × 2 hours, n = 13). Angiograms performed before and after BA and at 28 days were analyzed quantitatively by two blinded observers. Rabbits were sacrificed 28 days after BA, and quantitative histomorphometric analysis was performed on all vessels. The angiographic mean luminal diameters (LD) in mm were: Pre-BA Post-BA 28 Days Heparin 1.1 ± 0.2 1.5 ± 0.2* 1.0 ± 0.4*† Hirulog 1.2 ± 0.1 1.6 ± 0.1* 1.5 ± 0.2† * p = < 0.05 pre vs post, post vs 28 days † p = 0.0001 heparin vs hirulog at 28 days Full-size table Table options View in workspace Download as CSV By histomorphometric analysis, percent cross-sectional area narrowing by plaque (CSAN-P) was 56 ± 24% and 42 ± 21% in heparin-and hirulog-treated vessels, respectively (p = 0.04). In addition, 14 of 21 heparin controls but only 7 of 23 hirulog vessels had > 50% CSAN-P (p = 0.03, heparin vs hirulog). In conclusion, a 2-hour infusion of hirulog at the time of angioplasty reduced angiographic restenosis as well as cross-sectional area narrowing by plaque in this atherosclerotic rabbit model.
Phosphorylation of rat heart glycogen synthase: Studies in cardiomyocytes and in vitro phosphorylations with cAMP-dependent kinase and protein phosphatase-1

The phosphorylation of glycogen synthase has been studied in freshly isolated adult rat cardiomyocytes. Six peaks of 32P-labeled tryptic peptides are recovered via C-18 high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) when synthase is immunoprecipitated from 32P-labeled cardiomyocytes and digested with trypsin. When epinephrine treated cells are used as a source of enzyme, the same HPLC profile is obtained with a dramatic enhancement of 32P recovered in two of the HPLC peaks. In vitro phosphorylation of rat heart synthase by cAMP-dependent protein kinase stimulates the conversion of synthase from the I to the D form and results in the recovery of the same tryptic peptides from the C-18 as is the case for synthase derived from cardiomyocytes. Treatment of cAMP-dependent kinase phosphorylated synthase with protein phosphatase-1 leads to a reactivation of the enzyme and a dephosphorylation of the same tryptic peptides that are selectively phosphorylated in epinephrine treated cardiomyocytes. These results are discussed in relation to hormonal control of glycogen metabolism in cardiac tissue.
Avoidance response of juvenile Chromis punctipinnis to chlorinated seawater.

This study was undertaken to determine the behavioral responses of juvenile C. punctipinnis to chlorinated seawater. The effects of various parameters such as fish size, water temperature, acclimation temperature, and food availability on the behavioral response of C. punctipinnis to chlorinated seawater were also explored.
Visible colour displacement sensing system for manganese(II)

A visible colour displacement system has been developed for the colorimetric and ratiometric detection of Mn(II) ions. The supramolecular displacement system is composed of 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-[N-propyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)amino]phenol (5-Br-PAPS), which binds Zn2 + with a change in colour and binds Mn2 + without changing colour, ethylene glycol-bis(2-aminoethylether)-N, N, N ′, N ′-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and Zn2 + at neutral pH. The sensing system exhibits the colour of 5-Br-PAPS itself since EGTA binds Zn2 + more strongly than 5-Br-PAPS does. However, upon presentation of Mn2 + , Zn2 + is displaced from EGTA to bind 5-Br-PAPS to produce a pronounced colour change from yellow to purple. The absorbance decreases at 449 nm and increases at 552 nm, both linearly to Mn2 + concentration at low micromolar levels. This should be very advantageous since no suitable colorimetric reagent is available for the direct declination of Mn2 + at physiological pH.
Reflections, Thank you, and Goodbye

[Excerpt] This issue marks the end of my term as editor of the Cornell hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly. This transition brings forth mixed emotions. In many ways, I enjoyed my role in shaping the journal, directly affecting the type of content we publish, participating in the many changes the journal has gone through over the past few years, and working with many dedicated and talented authors, reviewers, and editorial board members. At the same time, I look forward to moving on with the next set of challenges in my career.
Rational synthesis of asymmetric bicyclic siloxane

A rational and versatile method to synthesize bicyclosiloxane of design structures is presented. The method is used to synthesize a new, asymmetric bicyclo[7.5.3]octasiloxane and other bicyclosiloxanes.
The inter-generational link in income mobility: evidence from adoptions

Abstract Estimates of the inter-generational link in income mobility are often contaminated by the correlation of genetic ‘ability’ with measures of parental income. We introduce the use of adoption data to sever this correlation, finding that the inter-generational link is attenuated substantially.
Prediction of effects of amino acid supplementation on growth of E. coli B/r

A mathematical model for the growth of a single cell of E. coli on medium containing amino acid is presented. A mixture of purified amino acids (glutamate, aspartate, serine, tyrosine, and leucine) combined in the ratios found in a natural digest (casein) were employed as the nitrogen source. Each of these amino acids is the representative of a different family of amino acids. The transport mechanisms and assimilation routes for each amino acid were inserted into the prototype model. The enzyme activities and saturation constants used in the model were based on literature data. The maximum velocities for uptake systems were calculated from experimental data. The formation and homeostasis of amino acid pools were regulated through cross-control of the activities of biosynthetic enzymes and of membrane transport of exogenous nutrients. The size of each amino acid pool was determined with mass balance equations that included terms for a transport system, a biosynthesis system, a transaminase enzyme system for interchange between the amino acid families, and a consumption system. The predictions of the extended model with regard to nutrient concentrations and growth rates compared well with the experimental data.
Dystopian and global rebellion: A review of the tenth annual conference of the Global Studies Association of North America

The report details presentations at the tenth annual Global Studies Association conference at the University of Victoria in Canada. Papers cover a wide range of topics including: the political economy of transnational capitalism; environmental challenges; new social movements; the Arab Spring and discussions on universal human rights. Presenters included academics and activists from Canada, the United States, Australia, Mexico, Turkey, Russia and Europe.
Disposition of nerve fibers in the regenerating limb of the adult newt, Triturus†

Bundles of nerve fibers invade the early regenerating limb of the adult newt Triturus. These fibers are unmyelinated and are only partly enveloped by accompanying Schwann cells. Isolated fibers make intimate contact with mesenchymatous cells. The fine structure of such contact regions suggests possible functional nerve terminations.
Light Scattering Study on Orientations in the Smectic Modifications

Abstract The scattering of light by smectic liquid crystals is discussed in terms of theories which have been applied to the scattering from crystalline polymers. The I ⊥ patterns observed from the smectic A and B states are of the four leaf clover form in which the scattering intensity increases continuously in going toward the center, while the smectic C gives circularly symmetric patterns for both I∥ and I⊥. These indicate that the scattering, at least in the smectic A and B mesophases is due to an assembly of anisotropic rods having random-orientation. Some new experimental facts observed for the cholesteric and pseudo-isotropic nematic states are described.
An interpretation of the near-ultraviolet absorption spectrum of SO2 - Implications for Venus, Io, and laboratory measurements

Line characteristics of remotely sensed SO2 spectra near the UV are discussed, noting the implications for the interpretation of data gathered by the IUE of Io and ground-based and Pioneer spectra of Venus. It is shown that the ratio of mean line spacing to linewidth is greater than unity, and that fully resolved lines have features consistent with concepts of temperature and pressure broadening. The application of Beer's approximation for the absorption spectra of Venus and Io atmospheres is found to be incorrect. Further, the spectroscopic limit on the SO2 line data from Io observations by the IUE are interpreted as establishing a lower bound on the SO2 in the Io atmosphere. A greater concentration of SO2 in vapor equilibrium may be present in the lower atmosphere. Laboratory measurements to resolve the uncertainties regarding the UV spectroscopic data from Io and Venus are suggested.
Effector cell mediated cytotoxicity measured by intracellular Granzyme B release in HIV infected subjects.

CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity is currently believed to be one of the key immunologic mechanisms responsible for the prevention or attenuation of HIV-1 infection. The induction of CD8+ T cell activation may also result in the production of soluble or non-classical lytic factors that are associated with protection from infection or slower disease progression. Traditionally, CD8+ CTL responses have been measured by the classic chromium release assay, monitoring the ability of T cells (Effector cells) to lyse radiolabelled HLA — matched “target cells“ that express the appropriate antigen-MHC complex. This method is not only labor intensive, semi quantitative assay at best, but also needs fresh, non-cryopreserved cells. Recently, cytokine specific ELISPOT assays or tetrameric MHC-I/ peptide complexes have utilized to directly quantitate circulating CD8+ effector cells, and these assays are more sensitive, quantitative and reproducible than the traditional CTL lysis assay and can also be performed on cryopreserved cells. Although these are reproducible assays for the assessment of soluble antiviral activity secreted by activated T cell populations they can be extremely expensive to perform. We have used FACS Analysis to measure Granzyme B release as a function of cell mediated cytotoxicity. This method helps quantitate the CTL activity and also identifies the phenotype of the cells elucidating this immune response. The method described not only monitors immunological response but also is also simple to perform, precise and extremely time efficient and is ideal for screening a large number of samples.
The relationship of self-concept and autonomy to oral contraceptive compliance among adolescent females.

Self-concept and autonomy are typically negotiated during adolescence, a time when many females also become sexually active. Nonuse and discontinuation of contraceptives by teenagers place them at high risk for pregnancy. The present study explores the relationship between these psychological factors and contraceptive noncompliance during adolescence. Fifty-five adolescent females beginning a contraceptive regimen were entered into the study. Compliance at four months after the initiation of an oral contraceptive was associated with scoring high on the Behavior Subscale of the Piers—Harris Self-Concept Scale and the Autonomy Scale modified from Eysenk.
If Cities are So Great, Why are People Leaving? A Response to Vining and Kontuly

Recent declines in the populations of some major metropolitan regions may not be inconsistent with the notion of agglomeration economies. An analysis of utility maximizing behavior in the choice of city size suggests that an increase in such economies may be the cause of outmigration from large cities, and that, in any event, increases in incomes across all cities should, ceteris paribus, induce such outmigration.
Finite element simulation of indentation experiments

Abstract Indentation experiments are now being used to study the elastic and plastic properties of materials on a sub-micrometer scale. Simulations of these experiments have been performed using the finite element method under the conditions of frictionless and completely adhesive contact and within the context of incremental elasto-plasticity. Comparison of these simulated results with experimental results demonstrates that the continuum based finite element approach has the capability to determine the load depth response of a sub-micrometer indentation test. It is also shown that the hardness and elastic modules of the can be obtained from the loading and unloading portoins of these simulated curves.
Stereochemistry of cytochrome P-450 reactions.

AbstractGenerally, most enzymes have a high degree of substrate specificity. In contrast, one of the primary characteristics of the cytochrome P-450s is a lack of substrate specificity. Specific isozymes will not only oxidize a number of different substrates but will often transform a single substrate into a number of different products. Indeed, it appears that almost any organic molecule that can reach the active site of the enzyme will be oxidized. This high degree of chemical reactivity demands that there must be some structural feature that controls access to the active site in order to prevent excess turnover of endogenous substances critical to the normal functioning of the organism. The structural feature that serves this role is the lipoidal character of the enzyme complex which results from the fact that it is membrane bound. Thus, the known endogenous substrates for the cytochrome P-450s, the steroids, prostaglandins, and fat-soluble vitamins, are all highly lipophilic substances.
A rapid, semi-automated counting procedure for enumeration of antibody-forming cells in gel and nucleated cells in suspension

A commercially available bacterial colony counter has been modified to permit rapid, highly accurate, semi-automated enumeration of antibody-producing plaque forming cells in semi-solid support medium as well as enumeration of nucleated cells in suspension on a standard hemacytometer chamber. This apparatus should therefore serve as an enormous time-conserving accessory to most modern laboratories involved in immunological research.
Probing Dielectric and Hydrogen Bonding Gradients in Biological Membranes

Nitroxide spin-labeling in combination with EPR spectroscopy has found many applications in studying structure and dynamics of proteins and biological membranes. Recently, there has been a substantial interest in utilizing EPR to characterize local effects of polarity and hydrogen bonding in proteins and biological membrane systems. Here we report on employing an arsenal of advanced spin-labeling EPR methods to profile heterogeneous dielectric and hydrogen bonding environment along the α-helical chain of an alanine-rich WALP peptide that is anchored in a lipid bilayer in a transmembrane orientation. A series of WALP cysteine mutants was labeled with a pH-sensitive nitroxide IMSTL (S-(1-oxyl-2,2,3,5,5-pentamethylimidazolidin-4-ylmethyl) ester) that is similar in molecular volume to phenylalanine. The protonation state of this nitroxide could be directly observed by EPR allowing us to follow proton gradient across the membrane in the vicinity of the WALP α-helix, and, thus, to reconstruct the gradient in the effective dielectric constant. These experiments were complemented by assessing local polarity from characteristic changes in EPR spectra that were enhanced by the use of perdeuterated and 15N-substituted nitroxides and high field EPR at 130 GHz (D-band). Formation of hydrogen bonds between the nitroxides and membrane-penetrating water molecules was observed directly in HYSCORE X-band experiments. Such measurements allowed us to derive experimental profiles of heterogeneous dielectric and hydrogen bonding environment along a typical transmembrane α-helix. Supported by: NSF-0843632 to TIS and NIH 1R01GM072897 to AIS.
Androgen receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the pig ovary during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is an important regulator of follicular development. Some effects of FSH on ovarian follicles might be enhanced by androgens. The main objectives of the present study were to examine expression of the androgen receptor (AR) and FSH receptor (FSHR) in late developing follicles in pigs. Ovaries were collected from gilts on days 13, 15, 17, and 19 of the estrous cycle (day 0 = first day of estrus, n = 4 gilts/day), a period coincident with the follicular phase. One ovary was processed for immunohistochemistry (IHC) of AR. Samples of surface wall from the largest follicles (4-5 per gilt) were dissected from the other ovary, pooled and processed for determination of AR and FSHR mRNAs using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Intense AR immunostaining was present in nuclei of granulosa cells of preantral and antral follicles. AR immunoreactivity was also present in the nuclei of oocytes. Weak staining for AR was observed in cells of the theca interna, ovarian surface epithelium, and in most cells of the ovarian stroma. Relative amounts of immunoreactive AR in granulosa cells of late developing follicles, or small antral follicles (< 2 mm), did not differ between days 13, 15, 17, and 19. However, amounts of AR in granulosa cells of small antral follicles was greater (P < 0.05) than in the largest follicles present in the same ovary. The relative amounts of AR mRNA in tissue from the largest follicles on days 13, 15, 17, and 19 did not differ; however, amounts of FSHR mRNA in the same follicles were not different between days 13, 15, and 17, but decreased (P < 0.05) by day 19. Results indicate that during the follicular phase in gilts, the AR protein is mainly present in granulosa cells. Relative amounts of AR protein in granulosa cells and mRNA in walls of late developing follicles did not significantly change from day 13 to 19; however, amounts of FSHR mRNA decreased in preovulatory follicles by day 19 of the estrous cycle.
Ability of herpes simplex virus vectors to boost immune responses to DNA vectors and to protect against challenge by simian immunodeficiency virus.

The immunogenicity and protective capacity of replication-defective herpes simplex virus (HSV) vector-based vaccines were examined in rhesus macaques. Three macaques were inoculated with recombinant HSV vectors expressing Gag, Env, and a Tat-Rev-Nef fusion protein of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). Three other macaques were primed with recombinant DNA vectors expressing Gag, Env, and a Pol-Tat-Nef-Vif fusion protein prior to boosting with the HSV vectors. Robust anti-Gag and anti-Env cellular responses were detected in all six macaques. Following intravenous challenge with wild-type, cloned SIV239, peak and 12-week plasma viremia levels were significantly lower in vaccinated compared to control macaques. Plasma SIV RNA in vaccinated macaques was inversely correlated with anti-Rev ELISPOT responses on the day of challenge (P value < 0.05), anti-Tat ELISPOT responses at 2 weeks post challenge (P value < 0.05) and peak neutralizing antibody titers pre-challenge (P value 0.06). These findings support continued study of recombinant herpesviruses as a vaccine approach for AIDS.
Inhibitory effects in the masticatory neuromusculature of human subjects at median occlusal position

Abstract The reflex inhibitory responses evoked in masticatory muscles by contact of the dentition during the open-tap-close and open-close-clench jaw cycles were compared with the duration of inhibition at median occlusal position. Nine patients with normal occlusions were studied. Electromyographic recordings from the bilateral temporalis, masseter and anterior digastric muscles revealed a highly significant difference in the duration of the EMG silent periods elicited. Median occlusal position produced the longest inhibition of elevator muscle activity, and was considered the test parameter to evaluate the harmony of neuromuscular integration.
On Multiplicative Weight Updates for Concave and Submodular Function Maximization

We develop a continuous-time framework based on multiplicative weight updates to approximately solve continuous optimization problems. The framework allows for a simple and modular analysis for a variety of problems involving convex constraints and concave or submodular objective functions. The continuous-time framework avoids the cumbersome technical details that are typically necessary in actual algorithms. We also show that the continuous-time algorithms can be converted into implementable algorithms via a straightforward discretization process. Using our framework and additional ideas we obtain significantly faster algorithms compared to previously known algorithms to maximize the multilinear relaxation of a monotone or non-monotone submodular set function subject to linear packing constraints.
Dielectric Properties of BAT Collagen in the Temperature Range of Thermal Denaturation

The measurements of dielectric properties of collagen BAT in the solid state were made over a frequency of the electric field range of 10 Hz to 10 kHz and at temperatures from 298 to 503 K. The temperature dependence of the dielectric constant e and the dielectric loss factor e″ of collagen show that thermal denaturation involves two stages. The first one corresponds to the removal of loosely bound water. The second stage is related to the release of structural bound water and probably to the beginning of the thermal transition from triple helix to coil. The observed frequency dependence of the constants e″ and e″ may be due to Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars polarization and a lesser degree to dipolar polarization of water molecules. The method of time-temperature superposition was used to calculate the energy of activation from dielectric date of collagen.
A note on the intracyclical balance-sheet behavior of large commercial banks 1972–1978

Using a Parkin-type model, this paper tests for the responsiveness of large banks' portfolio decisions to exogenous factors over the period 1972 to 1978. Based upon aggregate weekly data (adjusted for first-order autocorrelation) and a restricted least-squares estimation procedure, the empirical results indicate significant differences in behavior (i.e., structural changes) over the business cycle. Previous studies have implicitly assumed that such behavior is constant over the cycle or that differences over the cycle are not significant. This research shows that the assumption is untenable and that the differences over the cycle are statistically significant. Since these patterns vary over the business cycle, the differences should be incorporated into models of bank balance-sheet behavior to avoid misleading interpretations and implications.
Intensive and less-intensive renal replacement therapy did not differ for death or kidney function in critically ill patients.

Source Citation Palevsky PM, Zhang JH, O’Connor TZ, et al. Intensity of renal support in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury. N Engl J Med. 2008;359:7-20. 18492867
Attitudinal, Experiential, and Situational Predictors of Sexual Assault Perpetration

Past research demonstrates that sexual assault perpetration is caused by multiple factors including attitudes, early experiences, and situational factors. In this study, 343 college men described either a sexual assault they had committed or their worst date. Discriminant function analysis indicated that attitudes about gender roles and alcohol, number of consensual sex partners, how well the man knew the woman, how isolated the setting was, alcohol consumption during the event, the man's misperception of the woman's cues during the event, and prior consensual sexual activity between the man and the woman discriminated between sexual assaults and worst dates. Additionally, tactics used to obtain sex, self attributions, the perceived seriousness of the assault, and the extent to which it disrupted relationships with others significantly discriminated between men who committed forced sexual contact, sexual coercion, and rape. These results demonstrate the importance of considering both individual characteristics and situational factors in theories and prevention activities.
Anti-idiotypic immunity and autoimmunity. I. In vitro and in vivo effects of anti-idiotypic antibodies to spontaneously occurring autoantibodies to rat thyroglobulin.

The effects of anti-receptor (anti-idiotypic) immunity on autoimmune responses have been investigated in Buffalo (BUF) rats with autoimmune thyroiditis. As compared to other animal models of autoimmune desease, BUF rat thyroiditis has the following advantages: it occurs in an inbred strain, arises spontaneously (i.e. without the experimental administration of autoantigens and adjuvants) and is characterized by the production of autoantibodies to only one autoantigen, thyroglobulin. Finally, its pathogenesis is mediated by autoantibodies to rat thyroglobulin, and therefore this model is particularly suitable to study the effects of anti-idiotypic reactions on those autoimmune disorders whose damage is caused by humoral immunity. The experiments reported in the present study show that first, heterologous anti-idiotypic antibodies to autoantibodies against rat thyroglobulin have been produced and characterized. It has then been demonstrated that such anti-idiotypic antibodies are capable of inhibiting the in vitro binding between thyroglobulin and thyroglobulin autoantibodies obtained from BUF rats. It has also been shown that repeated injections of anti-idiotypic antibodies into sublethally X-irradiated BUF rats with autoimmune thyroiditis were followed by a significant change in the levels of circulating autoantibodies to rat thyroglobulin. These results provide evidence that in spite of the complexity of autoantigens and the heterogeneity of autoimmune responses, established autoimmune diseases may be controlled by sequential immunosuppression and anti-idiotypic immunity.
A Framework for Dialogue On Development Policies and Programs

4 research model composed of a conceptual framework and research strategy is described. The conceptual framework is derived from a control and econometric model where variable factors are arranged as exogenous and endogenous input variables that are linked to outcomes. The exogenous factors are beyond the control of policymakers and program operators, the endoge nous factors are controllable. The research strategy is a material approach to human sciences found in cultural anthropology. The factors are developed according to a taxonomy of sociocul tural phenomena, and deployed in four epistemological categories. Application of this model can lead to an objectively testable methodology for policy and program development.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Coal Refuse from Southwest Virginia

Coal refuse is difficult to reclaim due to high potential acidity, very coarse texture, low water retention, and fertility. This study was undertaken to determine the physical and chemical properties and the reclamation potential the physical and chamical properties and the reclamation potential of samples from 27 coal refuse piles of varying age. Selected physical and chemical properties varied widely across this sample set.
The rabbit detrusor muscle: A unique in-vitro smooth muscle preparation

Abstract A simple easily accessible in-vitro smooth muscle preparation is described that has several advantages over many other commonly employed smooth muscle preparations. Rabbit detrusor muscle strips that are thin and devoid of underlying submucosal tissue with parallel fiber orientation, of virtually any width can easily be dissected from the fundus of the bladder. This tissue exhibits autorhythmicity, characteristic of most single unit type smooth muscle preparations and can be employed in either isometric or isotonic organ bath recording systems. Although many receptors have been identified and characterized in the rabbit detrusor muscle the exact nature of pelvic nerve or transmural activation of the tissue still remains to be answered. Nevertheless, rabbit detrusor muscle is a smooth muscle preparation that can be used for many pharmacologie studies where a clean thin tissue with rapid responses is desired. An additional feature is that drug actions are limited primarily to the smooth cells and postganglionic neurons since the ganglia lie outside of the in vitro detrusor muscle strips.
Velocity distributions in the plasma sheet boundary layer

Abstract It is agreed that the plasma sheet boundary layer is a site of highly dynamic plasma behavior, with fast flows, field-aligned currents and intense broadband electrostatic noise commonly detected in this region. Most of the studies in the literature focus on macroscopic plasma parameters, e.g. density, velocity and temperature. These studies, while useful, do not allow for detailed comparisons between mechanisms to produce the ion beams characteristic of the boundary layer. In this presentation three-dimensional ion velocity distributions at the high-latitude edges of the plasma sheet are shown, and the theories which have been suggested to account for the streaming ions are compared with the observations. In addition anisotropic distributions observed in the neutral sheet are presented, and the relation to the plasma sheet boundary layer distributions is discussed.
Dynamic multi-path routing: asymptotic approximation and simulations

In this paper we study the dynamic multi-path routing problem. We focus on an operating regime where traffic flows arrive at and depart from the network in a bursty fashion, and where the delays involved in link state advertisement may lead to "synchronization" effects that adversely impact the performance of dynamic single-path routing schemes.We start by analyzing a simple network of parallel links, where the goal is to minimize the average increase in network congestion on the time scale of link state advertisements. We consider an asymptotic regime leading to an optimization problem permitting closed-form analysis of the number of links over which dynamic multi-path routing should be conducted. Based on our analytical result we examine three types of dynamic routing schemes, and identify a robust policy, i.e., routing the traffic to a set of links with loads within a factor of the least loaded, that exhibits robust performance. We then propose a similar policy for mesh networks and show by simulation some of its desirable properties. The main results suggest that our proposal would provide significant performance improvement for high speed networks carrying bursty traffic flows.
Schwalbe line's cell in the normal and glaucomatous dog.

Objective The canine iridocorneal angle contains an operculum, which is similar to that in nonhuman primates and consists of a peripheral extension of the inner cornea that overlies the anterior-most portion of the corneoscleral trabecular meshwork. This region contains cells, the Schwalbe line’s (SL) cells, that have been found to have secretory and epithelial characteristics. This region of the iridocorneal angle represents the nonfiltering portion and becomes altered early during spontaneous glaucoma in the Beagle. The present study describes the SL cell for the first time in the dog and changes associated with canine primary open angle glaucoma. Procedures The iridocorneal angles from 18 Beagles with inherited glaucoma (3 months–8 years old) and 17 normal, age-matched Beagles were placed in 10% buffered formalin for light microscopic evaluation, or 2.5% glutaraldehyde for ultrastructural evaluation. Using at least three fields from each region of the iridocorneal angle (opercular, corneoscleral, and uveal) at ×1000 magnification, trabecular cell nuclei were counted. Results The operculum in the canine iridocorneal angle consisted of the peripheral extension of the corneal endothelium and underlying anterior-most corneoscleral meshwork, having no direct contact with the angular aqueous plexus. The SL cells associated with operculum-retained epithelial morphology (polyhedral in shape with rER, Golgi apparatus, and secretory vesicles) in both normal, pre-and early glaucomatous dogs. In animals with moderate and advanced stages the SL cells often became less epithelial and secretory in appearance. The number of SL cells in normal dogs declined by approximately one-third by the end of their first year with gradual loss thereafter. In the glaucoma group the decline was more substantial and continuous through the first three years. Conclusions The SL cell is morphologically a distinct cell type within the canine iridocorneal angle that is specifically associated with the nonfiltering portion of the corneoscleral trabecular meshwork. Changes in the SL cells of the glaucomatous dog occurred with regard to age and progression of the disease.
The relationship between gingival inflammation and resistance to probe penetration

The present investigation was carried out to determine the location of the periodontal probe tip when various loads are applied. Additionally, the role of gingival inflammation to probe resistance was evaluated. The sample consisted of 51 teeth scheduled for extraction. The Gingival Index (GI) was used to establish the degree of inflammation. A loading of 20,25,30 ponds was delivered by a spring loaded sleeve bearing probe fitted with a michigan 0 probe having a terminal diameter of 0.35 mm. The extracted teeth were fixed and then stained with 4% toluidine blue. Using a coronal reference groove and the apical margin of the connective tissue attachment (CTA) as reference points apical penetrtion of the probe was established. The results of this study indicate that there is a linear relationship between the GI and the resistance of the gingival tissues to probe penetration. This is most apparent between a GI = 0 amd GI = 3. Wjereas with 30 ponds the mean penetration at GI = 0 was 0.30 mm. coronal to the CTA, the mean penetration was 1.25 mm apical to the CTA at GI = 3.
Oxidation Products of Nitric Oxide, NO2and NO3, in Plasma after Experimental Myocardial Infarction ☆

Nitrite and nitrate (NO2 and NO3), the oxidative products of nitric oxide (NO), were elevated in the plasma of rabbits on the third day following ligation of a coronary artery. This elevation coincided with increased activity of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in infarcted heart muscle. Data are reported which relate the elevated plasma concentrations of NO2+NO3 (NO(x)) to the increased induction of iNOS in an infarcted heart. NO2 and NO3 in plasma were measured by chemiluminescence. Nitrate was converted to nitrite by nitrate reductase. Plasma from the ear vein, right and left ventricle, and coronary sinus were analyzed for NO(x), and iNOS activity was enzymatically determined in infarcted, risk, and normal areas of the heart. The production equivalent of NO(x) by the heart and lung was also calculated. In addition, the effect of a specific inhibitor of iNOS, S-methylisothiourea sulfate (SMT) on plasma concentration and myocardial production of NO(x) was determined. It was concluded that the elevation of plasma NO(x) following onset of myocardial ischemia was directly related to increased induction of iNOS in the heart. This conclusion was based on a proportional and simultaneous increase in NO(x) plasma concentration with myocardial iNOS activation. The inhibitory effect of SMT furnished additional confirmation of the relationship between myocardial iNOS activation and NO(x) plasma levels in experimental myocardial infarction.
Nucleophilic reactivity of a series of peroxomanganese(III) complexes supported by tetradentate aminopyridyl ligands.

Peroxomanganese(III) adducts have been postulated as important intermediates in manganese-containing enzymes and small molecule oxidation catalysts. Synthetic peroxomanganese(III) complexes are known to be nucleophilic and facilitate aldehyde deformylation, offering a convenient way to compare relative reactivities of complexes supported by different ligands. In this work, tetradentate dipyridyldiazacycloalkane ligands with systematically perturbed steric and electronic properties were used to generate a series of manganese(II) and peroxomanganese(III) complexes. X-Ray crystal structures of five manganese(II) complexes all show the ligands bound to give trans complexes. Treatment of these MnII precursors with H2O2 and Et3N in MeCN at −40 °C results in the formation of peroxomanganese(III) complexes that differ only in the identity of the pyridine ring substituent and/or the number of carbons in the diazacycloalkane backbone. To determine the effects of small ligand perturbations on the reactivity of the peroxo group, the more thermally stable peroxomanganese(III) complexes were reacted with cyclohexanecarboxaldehyde. For these complexes, the rate of deformylation does not correlate with the expected nucleophilicity of the peroxomanganese(III) unit, as the inclusion of methyl substituents on the pyridines affords slower deformylation rates. It is proposed that adding methyl-substituents to the pyridines, or increasing the number of carbons on the diazacycloalkane, sterically hinders nucleophilic attack of the peroxo ligand on the carbonyl carbon of the aldehyde.
Frequency analysis of atrial electrograms identifies conduction pathways from the left to the right atrium during atrial fibrillation-studies in two canine models.

Studies of atrial fibrillation (AF) have demonstrated that a stable rhythm of very short cycle length in the left atrium (LA) can cause fibrillatory conduction in the rest of the atria. We tested the hypothesis that fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis of atrial electrograms (AEGs) during this AF will rapidly and reliably identify LA-to-right atrium (RA) conduction pathway(s) generated by the driver. Methods and Results: During induced atrial tachyarrhythmias in the canine sterile pericarditis and rapid ventricular pacing-induced congestive heart failure models, 380–404 AEGs were recorded simultaneously from epicardial electrodes on both atria. FFT analysis of AEGs during AF demonstrated a dominant frequency peak in the LA (driver), and multiple frequency peaks in parts of the LA and the most of the RA. Conduction pathways from the LA driver to the RA varied from study-to-study. They were identified by the presence of multiple frequency peaks with one of the frequency peaks at the same frequency as the driver, and traveled (1) inferior to the inferior vena cava (IVC); (2) between the superior vena cava and the right superior pulmonary vein (RSPV); (3) between the RSPV and the right inferior pulmonary vein (RIPV); (4) between the RIPV and the IVC; and (5) via Bachmann's bundle. Conduction pathways identified by FFT analysis corresponded to the conduction pathways found in classical sequence of activation mapping. Computation time for FFT analysis for each AF episode took less than 5 minutes. Conclusion: FFT analysis allowed rapid and reliable detection of the LA-to-RA conduction pathways in AF generated by a stable and rapid LA driver.
Asthma mortality: a possible explanation of international variations.

A review of mortality statistics and medication usage indicates that marketing and consumption of a particular highly concentrated isoproterenol pressurized aerosol nebulizer appears to have contributed to the increased asthma mortality reported in certain countries. Those countries which had high sales volumes for the nebulizers but were spared the increased mortality apparently were protected by virtue of not having licensed this highly concentrated nebulizer.
L-Triiodothyronine: Is this Peripheral Hormone a Central Neurotransmitter?

L-triiodothyronine (T3) has previously been shown to substance fast-phase, depolarization-induced 45Ca uptake and [3H-gamma-aminobutyric acid release by rat brain synaptosomes at low nanomolar concentrations comparable to those reported for whole brain. Neverthless, the physiologic importance of these nonnuclear-mediated effects of T3 has remained uncertain, a part because specific mechanisms and the presence of T3 at pesumptive sites of action have not been demonstrated. Isotopic studies showing that L-tetraiodothyronine thyroxine, T4) and T3 are concentrated in synaptosomes, and that T4 is deiodinated to T3 suggested that endogenous levels of T3 in nerve terminals are probably much higher than in other compartments of the brain. In the present study we confirmed that endogenous levels of T3 in nerve terminals are at least eightfold higher, and may be as much as 60-fold higher, than in whole brain. More importantly, we showed that both 125I-labeled T3 and endogenous T3, but not 125I-T4 or endogenous T4, are released from depolarized synaptosomes, primarily by a Ca2+-dependent process. This demonstrates a mechanism for raising the level of T3 within the synapse, where the hormone may interact with pre- and postsynaptic binding (or uptake) sites, and suggests that the peripheral hormone T3 may be a neurotransmitter.
Decreased caveolin-1 levels contribute to fibrosis and deposition of extracellular IGFBP-5

Our previous studies have demonstrated increased expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-5 (IGFBP-5) in fibrotic tissues and IGFBP-5 induction of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. The mechanism resulting in increased IGFBP-5 in the extracellular milieu of fibrotic fibroblasts is unknown. Since Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) has been implicated to play a role in membrane trafficking and signal transduction in tissue fibrosis, we examined the effect of Cav-1 on IGFBP-5 internalization, trafficking and secretion. We demonstrated that IGFBP-5 localized to lipid rafts in human lung fibroblasts and bound Cav-1. Cav-1 was detected in the nucleus in IGFBP-5-expressing fibroblasts, within aggregates enriched with IGFBP-5, suggesting a coordinate trafficking of IGFBP-5 and Cav-1 from the plasma membrane to the nucleus. This trafficking was dependent on Cav-1 as fibroblasts from Cav-1 null mice had increased extracellular IGFBP-5, and as fibroblasts in which Cav-1 was silenced or lipid raft structure was disrupted through cholesterol depletion also had defective IGFBP-5 internalization. Restoration of Cav-1 function through administration of Cav-1 scaffolding peptide dramatically increased IGFBP-5 uptake. Finally, we demonstrated that IGFBP-5 in the ECM protects fibronectin from proteolytic degradation. Taken together, our findings identify a novel role for Cav-1 in the internalization and nuclear trafficking of IGFBP-5. Decreased Cav-1 expression in fibrotic diseases likely leads to increased deposition of IGFBP-5 in the ECM with subsequent reduction in ECM degradation, thus identifying a mechanism by which reduced Cav-1 and increased IGFBP-5 concomitantly contribute to the perpetuation of fibrosis.
Maintaining the ionic permeability of a cellulose ester membrane

This paper reports the results of a series of experiments designed to test conditions that would permit NaCl to diffuse through 100 Da molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) and 1,000 Da MWCO membranes. For the 100 Da MWCO membrane, the membrane becomes completely impermeable to NaCl when dialyzed against distilled water (DW), but inclusion of one of a variety of different salts in the dialyzing solution maintains membrane permeability to NaCl. A titration experiment revealed that a minimum concentration of 0.1 mM of a salt such as KH2PO4 is required to sustain membrane permeability. In contrast, diffusion through the 1,000 Da MWCO membrane was slightly higher when DW was used as the dialysate. We conclude that the 100 Da MWCO membrane works well for a variety of dialysis applications provided that a maintenance salt is included in all dialyzing solutions.
The Effect of Topically Administered Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors on Aqueous Humor Dynamics in Rabbits

Repeated topical administration of 2.5% trifluormethazolamide, a halogenated derivative of methazolamide, resulted in a unilateral decrease in intraocular pressure in rabbits. Mean (± S.E.M.) baseline intraocular pressure (19.8 ± 2.1 mm Hg) was significantly (P
Nuclear Translocation of β-Dystroglycan Reveals a Distinctive Trafficking Pattern of Autoproteolyzed Mucins

Dystroglycan (DG) is an extracellular matrix receptor implicated in muscular dystrophies and cancers. DG belongs to the membrane-tethered mucin family and is composed of extracellular (α-DG) and transmembrane (β-DG) subunits stably coupled at the cell surface. These two subunits are generated by autoproteolysis of a monomeric precursor within a distinctive protein motif called sea urchin–enterokinase–agrin (SEA) domain, yet the purpose of this cleavage and heterodimer creation is uncertain. In this study, we identify a functional nuclear localization signal within β-DG and show that, in addition to associating with α-DG at the cell surface, the full-length and glycosylated β-DG autonomously traffics to the cytoplasm and nucleoplasm in a process that occurs independent of α-DG ligand binding. The trafficking pattern of β-DG mirrors that of MUC1-C, the transmembrane subunit of the related MUC1 oncoprotein, also a heterodimeric membrane-tethered mucin created by SEA autoproteolysis. We show that the transmembrane subunits of both MUC1 and DG transit the secretory pathway prior to nuclear targeting and that their monomeric precursors maintain the capacity for nuclear trafficking. A screen of breast carcinoma cell lines of distinct pathophysiological origins revealed considerable variability in the nuclear partitioning of β-DG, indicating that nuclear localization of β-DG is regulated, albeit independent of extracellular ligand binding. These findings point to novel intracellular functions for β-DG, with possible disease implications. They also reveal an evolutionarily conserved role for SEA autoproteolysis, serving to enable independent functions of mucin transmembrane subunits, enacted by a shared and poorly understood pathway of segregated subunit trafficking.