cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
STUDIES ON PNEUMOCOCCUS GROWTH INHIBITION : VI. THE SPECIFIC EFFECT OF PNEUMOCOCCUS SOLUBLE SUBSTANCE ON THE GROWTH OF PNEUMOCOCCI IN NORMAL SERUM-LEUCOCYTE MIXTURES.

By means of a method previously described for demonstrating the growth-inhibitory and pneumococcidal power of normal serum-leucocyte mixtures, a study was made to determine the action of pneumococcus soluble substance on the growth of strains of pneumococci avirulent for rabbits and cats. It was found that the presence of a very small amount of the purified soluble substance of the homologous type markedly altered the conditions in the mixture so that even a small number of avirulent pneumococci were enabled to grow in the serum and leucocytes of animals which possess the power to destroy ordinarily such pneumococci in relatively large numbers. The action of the soluble substance was shown to be highly specific to type. A Type II substance assisted the growth of only Pneumococcus Type II, likewise a Type III substance, the growth of Pneumococcus Type III only. Experiments involving broth filtrates of young pneumococcus cultures in place of the purified soluble substances gave similar results, thereby establishing further the identity of the purified substance with the precipitable substance originally described in the filtrates of pneumococcus cultures. The effect of the soluble specific substance of pneumococcus in the serum-leucocyte mixtures is, therefore, to confer on the avirulent pneumococcus of the homologous type the growth capacity of a virulent organism. The mechanism of the reaction is briefly discussed.
Estimating Dissolved Organic Carbon Partition Coefficients for Nonionic Organic Chemicals

A literature search was performed for dissolved organic carbon/water partition coefficients for nonionic organic chemicals (KDOC), and KDOC data were taken from more than 70 references. The KDOC data were evaluated as a function of the 1-octanol/water partition coefficients (KOW). A predictive relationship of KDOC = 0.08KOW with 95% confidence limits of a factor of 20 in either direction was developed using KDOC data based upon naturally occurring dissolved organic carbon. Inclusion of KDOC data for Aldrich humic acid, a reagent-grade organic carbon, resulted in a slightly different predictive relationship of KDOC = 0.11KOW with 95% confidence limits of a factor of 14 in either direction. The large uncertainties in these relationships are, in part, caused by the variability in structure and composition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in sediments, soils, and surface waters. This variability is not accounted for by the hydrophobicity parameter. For individual chemicals, ranges in KDOC values approaching ...
A dynamic model of democratic elections in multidimensional policy spaces

We propose a general model of repeated elections. In each period, a challenger is chosen from the electorate to run against an incumbent politician in a majority-rule election, and the winner then selects a policy from a multidimensional policy space. Individual policy preferences are private information, whereas policy choices are publicly observable. We prove existence and continuity of equilibria in "simple" voting and policy strategies; we provide examples to show the variety of possible equilibrium patterns in multiple dimensions; we analyze the effects of patience and office-holding benefits on the persistence of policies over time; and we identify relationships between equilibrium policies and the core of the underlying voting game. As a byproduct of our analysis, we show how equilibrium incentives maylead elected representatives to make policy compromises, even when binding commitments are unavailable. We provide an informational story for incumbency advantage. Finally, we give an asymptotic version of the median voter theorem for the one-dimensional model as voters become-arbitrarily patient.
1965 light curves of BV Dra and BW Dra

Differential B-band photometry of BV Dra and BW Dra, obtained in 1965, is presented. Times of primary and secondary minima are derived and combined with published times for a period study. Period variations are found in both binaries and magnetic cycles are proposed as an explanation. The cycle length is 19 years in BV Dra and 8 years in BW Dra.
Convection-generated stress concentration and seismogenic models of the Tangshan earthquake

Abstract Despite the success of earthquake predictions in China, the complete failure of the Chinese program to predict the 1976 Tangshan earthquake in the Peking region indicates that the state of stress in China is still very poorly understood. This paper examines the subcrustal stress field due to mantle convection flows under China as inferred from the satellite gravity field of the Earth. This stress field enables us to determine the current stress regimes in the crust of the Peking region. It is shown that under the influence of this subcrustal stress field the rectangular fault system in the Peking region will cause stress concentration. Conformal transformation and mapping of the convection-generated stresses under North China have revealed stress concentration in the rhombic Tangshan fault block. The magnitude and direction of the concentrated stress field in the Tangshan seismic district seem to be in accord with the seismogenic models for the 1976 Tangshan earthquake developed by Guo et al., (1977) and Ding (1978).
Pharmacological characterization of an unusual mGluR-evoked neuronal hyperpolarization mediated by activation of GIRK channels

The metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonist ACPD exerts an unusual inhibitory effect on a population of neurons of the song-control nucleus HVc of the zebra finch via activation of the GIRK channel. We report in the present study the pharmacology of this response. ACPD directly hyperpolarized the neurons by a mechanism independent of GABA(B) receptors. The group I mGluR agonist DHPG had no effect on membrane properties and the group I mGluR antagonist 4-CPG did not affect the ACPD-induced hyperpolarization. In contrast, the ACPD response was mimicked by the group II mGluR agonist LY314593 and the group II and III agonist L-CCG-I. The group II mGluR antagonist LY307452 fully antagonized the ACPD response and reduced the response induced by L-CCG-I. The group III mGluR agonist L-AP4 induced a small hyperpolarization, which was antagonized by the group III mGluR antagonist MAP-4. These data indicate that group II and group III mGluRs are present and functional in the postsynaptic membrane of these HVc neurons, and mediate the hyperpolarizing action of mGluR agonists. In contrast, group I mGluRs are absent from these neurons, nonfunctional, or coupled to different effector systems that do not influence membrane potential or input resistance.
Expression of two mRNAs for immunoglobulin lambda chains in the rat

Abstract We have analyzed the expression of immunoglobulin λ chains in the rat by hybridizing RNA from various sources with Cλ1-like and Cλ2-like sequences recovered from a rat genomic library. A 1.0 kb λ2-like sequence is readily detected in λ-producing hybridomas and in normal rat spleen RNAs; a 1.0 kb λ1-like message is also present, although at much lower levels. An additional 700 b.p. Cλ2-like fragment is found in all normal rat spleens, and presumably represents a defective message. The nucleotide sequence of one cDNA clone isolated from the λ-producing hybridoma G36/1 shows a λ2-like sequence, and six λ-secreting hybridomas produced from the spleen of a κ-suppressed rat all express a Cλ2-like message. The great majority of rat λ chains therefore appear to be λ2-like. Northern blot analysis of RNA from the spleen of this κ-suppressed rat shows a considerable increase in the expression of both λ2-like and (at lower levels) λ1-like message. The coordinate rise of λ1 and λ2 RNA in this rat suggests that there may be at least two functional λ chain genes in the rat, although there is as yet no evidence for the existence of rat λ1-like proteins.
Giving Words to the Unsayable: The Healing Power of Describing What Happened

This discussion elaborates on Dr. Slade’s paper about the centrality of fear in the etiology of emotional problems and discusses the transmission from parent to child of unaddressed sources of parental fear.
Effects of repeated withdrawal episodes, nicotine dose, and duration of nicotine exposure on the severity and duration of nicotine withdrawal in rats.

The aversive aspects of nicotine withdrawal contribute to high relapse rates to tobacco smoking after cessation attempts. To investigate the influence of nicotine dose, duration of nicotine exposure, and withdrawal history on the severity of nicotine withdrawal in rats, as assessed by brain stimulation reward thresholds and somatic signs of withdrawal. Repeated spontaneous and precipitated withdrawals were investigated through four successive removals of osmotic minipumps delivering nicotine/saline, or with daily injections of the nicotinic receptor antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine during chronic nicotine/saline exposure, respectively. The effects of dose and duration of exposure were investigated using minipumps of varying duration delivering different nicotine doses. Increased duration of nicotine exposure: a) prolonged the duration but did not alter the magnitude of withdrawal-associated threshold elevations; b) increased somatic signs early during withdrawal. Increased total nicotine exposure (i.e. increased dose and exposure duration) increased the duration of threshold elevations (no effect on magnitude) but had no effect on somatic signs. Neither repeated spontaneous nor repeated precipitated withdrawals altered the magnitude of withdrawal significantly. Increases in total nicotine dose resulted in increased severity of the affective aspects of withdrawal. Further, continuous drug exposure resulted in longer lasting withdrawal than intermittent administration even when the total nicotine dose was the same. There was no correlation between threshold elevations and somatic signs of withdrawal. In conclusion, the severity of nicotine withdrawal is mitigated by characteristics of the drug exposure regimen such as drug dose, duration of exposure and whether exposure is continuous or intermittent.
The role of inflammation after acute stroke : Utility of pursuing anti-adhesion molecule therapy

A growing body of evidence, primarily from animal models of cerebral ischemia and preliminary human studies, indicates that inflammatory mechanisms contribute to secondary neuronal injury after acute cerebral ischemia. Ischemia followed by reperfusion rapidly leads to the expression of inflammatory cytokines, particularly tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β, which stimulate a complex cascade of events involving local endothelial cells, neurons, astrocytes, and perivascular cells. A secondary response includes the release of other cytokines, an increase in components of the coagulation system, an upregulation of cell adhesion molecule expression, and changes in the expression of components of the immune response. The net effect of these events is transformation of the local endothelium to a prothrombotic/proinflammatory state and induction of leukocyte migration to the site of injury. A number of studies have shown that leukocyte migration occurs within hours of reperfusion. Leukocytes accumulate in the injured region, where they cause tissue injury by several mechanisms, including occlusion of microvasculature, generation of oxygen free radicals, release of cytotoxic enzymes, alteration of vasomotor reactivity, and increase in cytokine and chemoattractant release. Monoclonal antibodies against leukocyte adhesion molecules have been shown to reduce infarct volume in animal models of ischemia-reperfusion. However, this treatment failed to show benefit in the Enlimomab Acute Stroke Trial. A number of factors may complicate the use of antibody directed adhesion molecule blockade in acute stroke and will be discussed in this article. Overall, an increased understanding of inflammatory and immunologic mechanisms still offers great potential for reducing acute stroke injury.
Functional Electrical Stimulation in Spinal Cord Injury: From Theory to Practice

This article outlines steps to practical application of functional electrical stimulation (FES) within activity-based restorative therapy (ABRT). Drawing from current evidence, specific applications of FES intended to help restore function lost to spinal cord injury and associated neurologic disease are discussed. The medical and therapeutic indications, precautions, and contraindications are reviewed to help participants with appropriate patient selection, treatment planning, and assessment. Also included are the physiological implications of FES and alterable parameters, including dosing and timing, for a desired response. Finally, approaches to improve cortical representation and motor learning and to transition emerging movement into functional tasks are reviewed.
Chemical dynamics study of intrasurface hydrogen-bonding effects in gas-surface energy exchange and accommodation

Classical chemical dynamics simulations were performed to compare the efficiency of energy transfer in collisions of Ar with 300 K CH3- and OH-terminated alkyl thiol self-assembled monolayer surfaces (i.e., H-SAM and HO-SAM) and compare with previous experiments (Anal. Chim. Acta 2003, 496, 249). The experiments show that energy is transferred less efficiently to the HO-SAM. The H-SAM has a periodic, ordered surface structure, whereas the surface of the HO-SAM has a disordered, “glassy” structure as a result of “clustering” of the terminal OH groups. The Ar atom has a much stronger physisorption interaction with the HO-SAM, arising from the strong Ar···O van der Waals interaction. Though the simulations show that physisorption is more important for Ar atoms colliding with the HO-SAM, energy transfer is less efficient to this surface. The latter results from a significant difference in the energy transfer for direct collisions with the two surfaces. More energy is deposited in the H-SAM for direct collisio...
Synthesis of O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranosyl)-(1→3)-O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-(1→4)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D- glucopyranose and two related trisaccharides containing the “lacto-N-biose II” unit

Abstract Condensation of 3- O -(2-acetamido-3,4,6-tri- O -acetyl-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl)-2,4,6-tri- O -acetyl-α- D -galactopyranosyl bromide ( 1 ) with benzyl 2-acetamido-3,6-di- O -benzyl-2-deoxy-α- D -glucopyranoside in boiling benzene and in the presence of mercuric cyanide afforded a trisaccharide that was O -deacetylated to give benzyl O -(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl)-(1→3)- O -β- D -galactopyranosyl-(1→4)-3,6-di- O -benzyl-2-deoxy -α- D -glucopyranoside, the benzyl groups of which were cleaved by catalytic hydrogenolysis to furnish the title trisaccharide. Alternatively, bromide 1 was allowed to react with 2-acetamido-1,6-anhydro-3- O -benzyl-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranose in 1:1 benzene-nitromethane in the presence of mercuric cyanide, followed by O -deacetylation, column chromatography, and reacetylation to give O -(2-acetamido-3,4,6-tri- O -acetyl-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl)-(1→3)- O -(2,4,6-tri- O -acetyl-β- D - galactopyranosyl)-(1→4)-2-acetamido-1,6-anhydro-3- O -benzyl-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranose. Acetolysis, followed by catalytic hydrogenation and subsequent O -deacetylation furnished the title trisaccharide. A similar condensation of bromide 1 with 4-nitrophenyl 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-4,6- O -(4-methoxybenzylidene)-β- D -glucopyranoside and 2-nitrophenyl 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-4,6- O -(4-methoxybenzylidene)-α- D -galactopyranoside produced two trisaccharide derivatives, the acetal groups of which were cleaved in hot, 60% aqueous acetic acid, and the resulting diol intermediates O -deacetylated to furnish the desired trisaccharides 4-nitrophenyl O -(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl)-(1→3)- O -β- D -galactopyranosyl)-(1→3)-2- acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranoside and 2-nitrophenyl O -(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl-(1→3)- O -β- D -galactopyranosyl-(1→3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D - galactopyranoside.
Psychological and Ethical Considerations Concerning the Debreather and Assisted Suicide: A Commentary on Ogden

This article offers a commentary on the report by Russel Ogden (2010/this issue) on the use of the “debreather” for suicide assistance by the NuTech (or New Technologies for Self-Deliverance) program. The emergence of NuTech is set within its historical and political context. Nu Tech is criticized for its anarchic and extreme advocacy of self-determination to the neglect of other psychological and ethical considerations (e.g., the individual's emotional state, the mutability of his or her quality of life, and his or her decision-making capacity). Some of the risks of covert, unregulated, assisted death are noted as is a potential shift in healthcare that might diminish interest in the undignified NuTech methods of dying.
Tritium inventory and permeation in TFTR

Abstract The control of tritium in TFTR has both important safety and environmental implications. Current modelling techniques allow realistic predictions of the tritium inventory in and permeation through in-torus components. The source of the tritium was computed using a three-dimensional description of the neutral particle flux on the TFTR vacuum vessel wall from the neutral transport code DEGAS, under plasma conditions modelled with the one-dimensional transport code BALDUR. The movable limiter (graphite) was modelled using an extension of the Local Mixing Model for hydrogen retention and isotope exchange. In particular, the calculations consider the inventory and recycling for the movable limiters (which are expected to experience transient temperatures up to 2000°C) as well as the bumper limiters and protective plates which will remain somewhat cooler. Transient effects in the bulk graphite limiter and in the stainless steel wall were modelled using the DIFFUSE code with materials parameters taken from the most recent literature. It appears that for the expected material properties, specifically the hydrogen recombination constant measured in a clean TFTR environment, and operating scenario, there will be essentially no tritium permeation through the stainless steel walls or bellows and less than 0.1 kCi of tritium inventory in the stainless steel first wall. The limiters may contain as much as 5 kCi of tritium.
Conformation of immunoglobulin M--IV. hot trypsin digestion of equine IgM.

Abstract Digestion of equine IgM by trypsin for 30 min at 60°C produces Fabμ and (Fc)5μ fragments. The molecular weight of(Fc)5μ, 432,000, and the presence of Cμ2 antigenic determinants, indicate that cleavage occurs between the Cμ1 and Cμ2 domains.
DIBBUK, a monitoring and control system for secondary particle beams from a high energy particle accelerator

Abstract We describe DIBBUK, a monitoring and control system for secondary particle beams from a high energy accelerator. The primary discussion will be of the computer software aspects.
Zur Kinetik der Polymerisation von Aethylen mit löslichen Ziegler-Natta-Katalysatoren

Die Geschwindigkeit der Aethylenpolymerisation bei konstantem Druck, in Toluol, unter Verwendung von Katalysator-Systemen der allgemeinen Zusammensetzung Cp2TiRCl/R′AlCl2 (Cp=Cyclopentadienyl; R, R′=Alkyl) wurde gemessen. Gleiche Geschwindigkeit bei Al/Ti=1,2 und 2,0 beweist einen 1:1 Komplex als katalytisch aktive Spezies.
Tolerance intervals for univariate distributions

A review of univariate tolerance intervals is presented from an application-oriented point of view. Both β-content and β-expectation intervals are defined and considered. Standard problems are discussed for the distribution-free case and with various distributional assumptions (normal, gamma, Poisson) which occur most frequently in practice. The determination of sample size is emphasized. A number of examples are used to illustrate the types of problems which permit solutions with the excellent tables now available.
Osteosarcoma cells, resistant to methotrexate due to nucleoside and nucleobase salvage, are sensitive to nucleoside analogs

Abstract Purpose. To test a novel strategy for overcoming intrinsic resistance to methotrexate (MTX) in osteosarcoma (OS) due to nucleoside and nucleobase salvage (NS). Methods. Four OS cell lines, found to be highly resistant to MTX, were tested to determine the dominant mechanism of resistance. Sensitivity to MTX was tested in the presence of dialyzed serum or the transport inhibitor dipyridamole (DP) to confirm the contribution of NS to MTX resistance. We then investigated whether increased NS activity could be exploited using cytotoxic nucleoside analogs. Results. Like other cell types, OS cells are capable of circumventing inhibition of de novo nucleotide synthesis by relying on NS. MTX, at concentrations as high as 1 mM did not inhibit cell growth in culture medium supplemented with undialyzed serum. In contrast, when NS was inhibited by DP or in medium depleted of nucleosides and nucleobases, sensitivity to MTX was seen at nanomolar concentrations. In medium with dialyzed serum, thymidine and hypoxanthine provided dose-dependent protection from MTX toxicity at concentrations similar to those seen in human plasma. No evidence of other significant mechanisms of resistance were found. All four cell lines were sensitive to 3-day exposures to cytarabine (IC50 0.22 to 2.88 µM) and vidarabine (IC50 0.09 to 0.95 µM). Conclusions. Salvage of de novo nucleotide synthesis inhibition by extracellular thymidine and hypoxanthine, at physiologically relevant concentrations, contributes to resistance to MTX in OS. However, this same process may impart a collateral sensitivity to nucleoside analogs. These findings support clinical trials for patients with OS using nucleoside analogs, either alone or in combination.
Kohn-Sham exchange potential exact to first order in ρ(K→)/ ρ 0

The Kohn-Sham exchange potential may be written, exact to first order in \ensuremath{\rho}(K\ensuremath{\rightarrow})/${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{0}$, ${V}_{x}^{\mathrm{KS}}$=-(3/2) (3/\ensuremath{\pi}${)}^{1/3}$${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{0}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}2/3}$ ${\mathcal{J}}_{\mathrm{K}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}^{\mathcal{'}}$\ensuremath{\rho}(K\ensuremath{\rightarrow})F(K)${e}^{i\mathrm{k}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\cdot}\mathrm{r}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}$. We here evaluate the universal function F(K/${k}_{F}$) for all K/${k}_{F}$ and find large corrections to the local-density approximation which should result in much improved values for semiconductor energy gaps.
THE AGE OF THE UNIVERSE

Intr;oduction. The desire to know when the world began is one that arises with man's speculations on the primary questions concerning his existence. To realise that there is repetition and succession of generations is also to ask, 'When was the first ?' An awareness of long run changes in the earth's surface, as taught by geology, and in the plants and animals of the earth, as taught by paleontology and biology, carries the question from the origin of man to the origin of the earth and its creatures. But, beyond the earth, astronomy too has found evidences of change, as far in the universe as telescopes have reached. The question of'When did it start ? ', asked for man and the natural world immediately about him, does eventually lead to the question of'when ?' for the entire universe.
Nearly ferromagnetic Fermi-liquid behaviour in YFe 2 Zn 20 and high-temperature ferromagnetism of GdFe 2 Zn 20

One of the historic goals of alchemy was to turn base elements into precious ones. Although the practice of alchemy has been superseded by chemistry and solid-state physics, the desire to dramatically change or tune the properties of a compound, preferably through small changes in stoichiometry or composition, remains. This desire becomes even more compelling for compounds that can be tuned to extremes in behaviour. Here, we report that the RT2Zn20 (R=rare earth and T=transition metal) family of compounds manifests exactly this type of versatility, even though they are more than 85% Zn. By tuning T, we find that YFe2Zn20 is closer to ferromagnetism than elemental Pd, the classic example of a nearly ferromagnetic Fermi liquid. By submerging Gd in this highly polarizable Fermi liquid, we tune the system to a remarkably high-temperature ferromagnetic (TC=86 K) state for a compound with less than 5% Gd. Although this is not quite turning lead into gold, it is essentially tuning Zn to become a variety of model compounds.
Semispaces of configurations, cell complexes of arrangements

On montre que l'equivalence de semi-espace est la notion appropriee pour distinguer les proprietes des configurations qui se relient a l'orientation, la separation et la convexite
Noninvasive Tests to Evaluate the Severity of Aortic Stenosis: Limitations and Reliability

Fifty patients were examined with phonocardiograms, carotid pulse tracings, and M-mode echocardiograms to evaluate the ability of noninvasive tests to identify the severity of aortic valvular disease as determined at cardiac catheterization. Linear and multivariate analysis showed these noninvasive approaches to have only fair correlation with the severity of the disease. A binary division of the population under study into severe and nonsevere subgroups based on aortic valvular area ( ¯ 0.8 sq cm in severe group [n = 25]; >0.8 sq cm in nonsevere group [n = 25]) allowed sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios to be determined. The likelihood ratio increased fourfold as the interval from the ECG Q wave to the murmur's peak (Q-MP) prolonged to 320 msec and increased sevenfold when the rate-corrected left ventricular ejection time (ΔLVET) was more than 40 msec beyond values predicted from standard regression equations. Echocardiographic measurements were less helpful. Prolonged values of Q-MP and δLVET proved to be the best discriminators of severe aortic valvular disease in this population where the prevalence of severe and nonsevere disease was equal.
Measurements of coronary blood flow and degree of stenosis: Current clinical implications and continuing uncertainties

Abstract Initial measurements of coronary blood flow in human beings were limited by methodologic inadequacies causing clinically important areas of reduced perfusion to be incompletely represented or overlooked. More recent measurements have provided insight into clinically relevant pathophysiology. There has been increasing appreciation of the need for values of flow to be related to concomitant myocardial oxygen demand, and of the importance of evaluating perfusion in relation to coronary vascular reserve. Regional flow measurement techniques have progressed significantly during the past decade and have provided better insight into perfusion deficits in ischemic heart disease. A greatly improved understanding of the relation between the arteriographic degree of stenosis and perfusion limitation also has developed, in reviewing studies addressing these points, the present article attempts to highlight their current clinical implications and address continuing uncertainties meriting further attention.
An external labor-onset monitor that differentiates true labor from braxton-hicks-type contractions: preliminary findings

Abstract Objective: To obtain parameters that differentiate true labor from Braxton-Hicks (BH) contractions in a simplified manner by processing the frequency spectrum of uterine electromyograms (EMG). Methods: This is an ongoing open study in patients recruited from women coming for scheduled antenatal appointments or for labor and delivery at Morton Hospital. The beginning and end of each EMG burst were determined. A power spectral density calculation was performed and integrated to give a parameter (DELTA) indicative of true labor (positive DELTA) or BH-type (negative DELTA) contractions. These results were compared with delivery within 36 hours. Results: Patients who had three consecutive positive DELTA values delivered within 36 hours (even though clinical measures of labor were negative), whereas those with three consecutive negative DELTA values did not. Patients who were obese (body mass index >34) or had a vaginal examination before the EMG measurement were excluded. Conclusions: Preliminary results indicate that the use of a labor-onset monitor may enable physicians to differentiate true labor from BH-type contractions, thereby determining to which patients exhibiting signs of preterm labor, tocolytic agents should be given.
Graphitic carbon nanofiber-poly(acrylate) polymer brushes as gas sensors

Abstract Carbon nanofiber/interdigitated array circuits fabricated with as-prepared herringbone graphitic carbon nanofibers [GCNF], GCNFs surface-derivatized with 3,4′-oxydianiline functional groups [GCNF–ODA], and GCNF–poly(butyl acrylate) [GCNF–PBA] or GCNF–poly(acrylic acid) [GCNF–PAA] polymer brushes are evaluated as solid-state gas-sensing materials unsupported by a polymer matrix. Vapor detection is observed as an increase in circuit electrical resistance. Analyte maximum response values exhibit chemoselectivity among different types of GCNF sensors and range over five orders of magnitude in parallel with expected trends in vapor/GCNF van der Waals interaction.
Determination of the glutamate-glutamine cycling flux using two-compartment dynamic metabolic modeling is sensitive to astroglial dilution.

Over the last decade 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy (13C MRS) combined with the infusion of [1-13C]glucose has been used to measure the cerebral rate of the glutamate–glutamine cycle (Vcyc). However, the effect of the astroglial label dilution pathways on the accuracy and precision of the 13C MRS measurement of Vcyc has not been evaluated or realized. In this report, we use the numerical Monte Carlo method to study the effect of astroglial dilution on the reliability of extracting Vcyc using the neuronal–astroglial two-compartment metabolic model and [1-13C]glucose infusion. The results show that omission of the astroglial dilution flux leads to a large loss in the sensitivity of the glutamine turnover curve to Vcyc. When the measured isotopic dilution of cerebral glutamine is accounted for in the analysis, the value of Vcyc can be precisely and accurately determined.
Spatial distribution of hexachlorocyclohexane isomers in the Bering and Chukchi sea shelf ecosystem

The spatial distribution of fields for α and γ hexachlorocyclohexanes are described for the Bering/Chukchi Shelf ecosystem. Fields for the surface concentration of these isomers are defined that closely match the water mass structure of this region. The relative abundances for the α and γ isomers were also excellent markers for the prevailing currents here. Water type groupings based on the percentage differences from respective mean values for the α and γ concentrations represented water zones that accurately depicted the Anadyr Current and a Siberian Coastal Front, which originates along the upper Chukchi Peninsula. Values for the α/γ ratios ranged from a low of 2.52 for the Pacific Water inputs for this region to a high of 9.36 for the Siberian coastal current water. This study demonstrates the importance of using marker chemicals like HCHs to identify ocean currents.
Persistent ostium primum coexisting with mitral or tricuspid atresia.

Three cases of persistent ostium primum coexisting with atresia of an atrioventricular valve (tricuspid atresia in one case and mitral atresia in two cases) are described. The presence of a persistent ostium primum in association with an atretic atrioventricular valve allows easy escape of blood from the atrium with an atretic valve. To our knowledge, this association of anomalies has not been previously reportd.
Stress evolution and capacity fade in constrained lithium-ion pouch cells

Abstract The effects of mechanical stress on lithium-ion battery life are investigated by monitoring the stack pressure and capacity of constrained commercial lithium-ion pouch cells during cycling. Stack stress is found to be a dynamic quantity, fluctuating with charge/discharge and gradually increasing irreversibly over long times with cycling. Variations in initial stack pressure, an important controllable manufacturing parameter, are shown to produce different stress evolution characteristics over the lifetime of the cells. Cells manufactured with higher levels of stack pressure are found to exhibit shorter cycle lives, although small amounts of stack pressure lead to increased capacity retention over unconstrained cells. Postmortem analysis of these cells suggests a coupling between mechanics and electrochemistry in which higher levels of mechanical stress lead to higher rates of chemical degradation, while layer delamination is responsible for the capacity fade in unconstrained cells. Localized separator deformation resulting in nonuniform lithium transport is also observed in all cells.
A method for associating spots in a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor with a hexagonal lenslet array

Historically, the spots produced by a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor are expected to stay in a region immediately behind their respective lenslets. Valuable sensitivity and dynamic range can be recovered if the spots are allowed to wander. A new algorithm is presented for resolving this issue for a hex-packed lenslet geometry.
Spiral (helical) CT of the renal vasculature

The renal arteries are among the most challenging of the major aortic branches to image with spiral CT. Optimization of CT acquisition parameters is critical to creating diagnostic renal CT angiograms. When careful attention is paid to prescribing these examinations, renal CT angiography can be a very useful, noninvasive alternative to conventional angiography for the assessment of renal artery stenosis, screening of potential renal donors, planning repair of ureteropelvic junction stenoses, and identification of relevant renal artery relationships to abdominal aortic lesions. This review outlines important technical considerations for performing renal CT angiography and examines currently published data on the utility of spiral CT in a variety of clinical conditions.
Old Antibiotics Target TB with a New Trick

Autophagy is now recognized as a cellular defense mechanism that can restrict the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Kim et al. (2012) demonstrate that antibiotics routinely used to treat Mtb infection elicit a host autophagy response critical for bacterial clearance.
Episodic block motion and convergence along the Calaveras fault in Central California

Abstract A geodetic array covering approximately 100 km2 near Hollister, California has been monitored daily whenever possible since September 1975 using a multiwavelength distance-measuring (MWDM) instrument with a demonstrated precision of 1 part in 107. The MWDM array straddles the Calaveras fault, a portion of the transform fault system between the North American and Pacific tectonic plates. The deformation of the region typically occurs during episodes of significant movement, lasting several weeks, interspersed by periods of relative quiescence. An analysis of the MWDM data suggests that most of the observed crustal movements can be explained by rigid-block motion parallel to the strike of the Calaveras fault. However, there is a significant component of the motion that appears to be due to a convergence of the crustal blocks towards the Calaveras fault. This convergent trend, if it represents long-term crustal movement behavior, may be responsible for the small, elongated hills situated along the fault trace.
Immunoglobulin-containing plasma cells recruited to cervical neoplasia

Objective To determine the number and isotype of immunoglobulin (Ig)-containing cells that infiltrate various stages of cervical neoplasia from no lesion to invasive cancer. Methods By three-color immunofluorescent microscopy, the number and isotype of stromal plasma cells were determined for 91 specimens representing a spectrum of cervical epithelial neoplasia as follows: no lesion ( n =12), koilocytic atypia ( n =13), mild dysplasia ( n =21), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL; n =22), and invasive carcinoma ( n =23). Results The Ig-positive cell counts were markedly increased under the low-grade SIL. Specifically, the mean number of IgG-positive plasma cells was significantly increased ( P Conclusion Low-grade cervical lesions are infiltrated by IgG plasma cells to a greater extent than high-grade or invasive cervical lesions, suggesting that antibody responses are preferentially recruited in early cervical neoplasia, giving credence to the concept that low-grade lesions represent a human papillomavirus infection of the cervix rather than a neoplastic condition.
The Effect of Actinomycin D on the Incorporation of Labeled Vitamin a Acid in Normal and Tumor Epithelium

Previous studied have shown that vitamin A acid topically applied to the dry keratotic keratoacanthoma products, in vivo , a metaplasia. Further studies have shown that radioactive vitamin A acid is taken up by normal rabbit hair follicle epithelium as well as the keratoacanthoma. Most of the grains are localized over the euchromatin after 48 hrs, 72 hrs and even after 96 hrs. In the present study, the effect of actinomycin D on the uptake of labeled vitamin A acid in normal epidermal cells and in the keratoacanthoma was studied by electron microscope radioautography. When actinomycin D is applied either in 1 or 2 doses prior to labeled vitamin A acid, very few grains are observed over the nuclei of the keratinocytes. Most of the grains are localized over the tonofibrils or the cytoplasmic ground substance. When labeled vitamin A acid is applied prior to actinomycin D, grains still predominate over the cytoplasm or its organelles when biopsies are taken 24 hrs after the last application of the antibiotic. However, biopsies taken 48 hrs after actinomycin D was last applied depicts most of the grains over the loose chromatin of the nuclei of the keratinocytes in the stratum spinosum. These results simulate very closely what one observes if only labeled vitamin A acid is applied and biopsies examined 48 hrs later. This experiment suggests that vitamin A acid or its metabolite is incorporated into the nucleus and establishes a new direction of protein synthesis (glycoprotein formation) which actinomycin D cannot influence unless the antibiotic precedes the vitamin A acid applications.
Risk of retinal tears in patients with vitreous floaters.

A total of 589 patients (369 women and 220 men, 123 of whom were less than 40 years old and 52 of whom were more than 70 years old) with photopsia, vitreous floaters, or both participated in a prospective study designed to identify patients at particularly high risk for retinal tears. The patients were graded on a number of factors before undergoing peripheral retinal examinations. Computer analysis showed that the following factors had the strongest associations (P
Cell fusion as a mechanism for the origin of polyploid cells in vitro.

In Kulturen vonPeromyscus maniculatus und inMuntiacus muntjak wurden Tetraploidzellen gefunden, die als Produkte von Zellfusionen aufgefasst werden. Es wird angenommen, dass die ursprunglichen diploiden Elemente sich im Zeitpunkt der Fusion in verschiedenen Phasen des Zellzyklus befunden haben.
Crystal surface diffraction of partially coherent beams

Abstract A general formula for the distribution of diffracted intensity from a crystal surface is derived. Illustrative calculations are carried out for a single row of scattering centers. Roughly speaking, the peak width is limited by either the crystal size or the coherence length, whichever is smaller, but a consideration of the line shape permits a distinction to be made between these effects. A simple example illustrating the effects of non-monochromaticity is discussed.
History of alcohol or drug problems, current use of alcohol or marijuana, and success in quitting smoking

Previous research suggests higher rates of smoking, and smoking cessation failure, in alcohol- and drug-abusing populations. The present study examined the relationship of alcohol/drug treatment history and current alcohol and marijuana consumption with success in smoking cessation treatment in a smoking clinic population. Participants were 199 smokers; 23% reported a history of alcohol/drug problems, 12.6% reported a history of drug treatment, 78.7% reported alcohol use, and 21.3% reported marijuana use during treatment. Results indicate no significant differences in abstinence rates based on history of alcohol/drug problem or treatment. Differences were found for any current alcohol use but not for marijuana use. Both alcohol use at baseline and any alcohol use during treatment predicted smoking at all follow-up points. Alcohol users had significantly lower quit rates than did participants reporting no use. Neither use of marijuana at baseline nor during treatment predicted outcome. These findings suggest that even low to moderate levels of alcohol consumption during smoking cessation may decrease treatment success.
Silica-induced membranolysis: A study of different structural forms of crystalline and amorphous silica and the effects of protein adsorption

Abstract In an effort to better understand the cytotoxic effects of various silicas, the membranolytic potential of several crystalline and amorphous forms of silicon dioxide (SiO2) were measured using human erythrocytes as a target cell. Preparation of erythrocytes at acid pH and in the presence of citrate or EDTA reduced quartz-induced lysis by 8–47%; this effect was not reversed by the addition of divalent cations. All particulates studied, except control crystals of titanium dioxide, produced lysis. However, the extent of hemolysis varied considerably and depended upon (1) the general structural organization of the particulate (crystal vs amorphous), (2) the specific molecular structure, (3) the total surface area and protein adsorptive capacity of the particulates (effective “biological” surface areas), and (4) the relative surface charge of the particulate derived from protein binding experiments. Adsorbed proteins reduced quartz-induced hemolysis 20–98%, depending upon the specific protein coating. The results of these studies indicate that microcrystalline silicas are more effective membranolytic agents than amorphous silica when data are corrected for surface area. Differences in molecular structure also alter the membranolytic poential of crystalline silica, probably by varying their surface properties. The latter changes appear to be reflected in the protein adsorptive behavior of the different silicas which may be useful in predicting the membranolytic (and possibly the biologic) effects of these particles.
Upstream mediators of p53 in cigarette smoke induced endothelial apoptosis

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis is an early determinant of lung destruction in emphysema. We set out to characterize the upstream molecular mediators required for p53 dependent cigarette smoke (CS) induced EC apoptosis and rationalize them as potential therapeutic targets. p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) has been shown to be activated in alveolar walls in patients with COPD. We have observed that XOR activation is necessary for CS-induced EC apoptosis. XOR activation by mechanical stress or hypoxia is through p38 MAPK dependent pathways. We hypothesize that p38 MAPK activation and its upregulation of XOR activity are necessary upstream events in p53 dependent CS-induced EC apoptosis. METHODS: Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVEC) were exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) for 4 and 24 hours. Molecular and pharmacologic approaches were used to manipulate p38 MAPK, XOR, and p53 expression. Endpoints included Western blotting and quantification of EC apoptosis as well as XOR enzymatic activity using the pterin fluorimetric assay (Beckman et al., 1989). RESULTS: Exposure to CSE increases p38 MAPK activity, XOR activity, and p53 expression in our PMVEC. When EC were pretreated with inhibitors for p38 MAPK, XOR, or p53, they were protected from CSE-induced apoptosis. Inhibition of p38 MAPK blocked CSE-induced XOR activation. Suppression of the mitochondrial function of p53 with pifithrin-μ blocks CS-induced apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS: CS exposure induces increased apoptosis in PMVEC that is dependent on p53 expression and XOR activation. Inhibition of p38 MAPK prevents upregulation of XOR activation and p53 expression, protecting cells from CS-induced apoptosis.
Far-infrared transmittance of Tb, Ho, Tm, Er, and Yb orthoferrite

The far-infrared transmittance spectra of Tb, Ho, Er, Tm, and Yb orthoferrite at 4.2 K are presented. Trivalent rare-earth ionic transitions are observed as follows: (1) Tb—none, (2) Ho—86.6, 121.6, 127.8, 132.6 cm−1, (3) Er—46.5, 106.5, 109.5 cm−1, (4) Tm—33.3, 41.6, 58.3, 66.0, 106.5 cm−1, (5) Yb—none. In all five samples, there are two lattice-resonance lines near 102 and 112 cm−1. In Yb orthoferrite, two weak lines, believed to be due to magnetic resonance, are seen. Only the Er orthoferrite spectrum is affected by a 50 kOe applied magnetic field.
Cognitive Differences in Proficient and Nonproficient Essay Scorers

This article examines the behavioral differences of essay scorers who demonstrate different levels of proficiency for a psychometric scoring task. The authors compare three proficiency groups to identify differences in (a) essay features they consider, (b) their understanding of the scoring rubric, and (c) their decision-making procedures. Results indicate scorers with different levels of proficiency do not focus on different essay features when making evaluative decisions but their understandings of the scoring criteria may vary. Proficient scores are more likely to focus on general features of an essay when making evaluative decisions and to adopt values espoused by the scoring rubric than are less proficient scorers. Also, proficient scorers make evaluations by reading the entire essay and then reviewing its content, whereas less proficient scorers may interrupt the reading process to monitor how well the essay satisfies the scoring criteria. Finally, the authors discuss implications for scorer selecti...
Solid gas reaction of hydrazobenzene with methyl iodide

Abstract Solid-gas reactions are used as a new approach to the study of solvolysis reactions. The reaction of solid hydrazobenzene with gaseous methyl iodide yields a different product distribution from the solution reaction and the possible mechanisms of these reactions are discussed.
Tuberculosis vaccine development: recent progress

Recent years have seen a renewed effort to develop new vaccines against tuberculosis. As a result, several promising avenues of research have developed, including the production of recombinant vaccines, auxotrophic vaccines, DNA vaccines and subunit vaccines. In this article we briefly review this work, as well as consider the pros and cons of the animal models needed to test these new vaccines. Screening to date has been carried out in mouse and guinea pig models, which have been used to obtain basic information such as the effect of the vaccine on bacterial load, and whether the vaccine can prevent or reduce lung pathology. The results to date lead us to be optimistic that new candidate vaccines could soon be considered for evaluation in clinical trials.
Sensorimotor Functions in Brain-Damaged and Normal Children of Early School Age

2 groups, each composed of 29 children ranging in age from 5 to 8 years, were studied. In one group each child had evidence of cerebral damage whereas each child in the other group was functioning normally. The groups were compared with regard to a series of tests of motor functions and a series of tests of tactile-perceptual functions. The results yielded significant differences between the two groups, indicating that both motor functions and tactile-perceptual functions, generally considered, were impaired in association with cerebral damage. Although results were somewhat variable for individual tests, the data permitted classification of 70 to 80% of Ss in their appropriate groups, using the median of combined distributions as the cut-off point.