cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recognition of human and animal movement using infrared video streams

Distinguishing human motion from animal motion is important in many applications using infrared video streams, such as surveillance systems for homeland security and collision avoidance systems for nighttime driving safety. In this paper we present a technique to distinguish human motion from animal motion using infrared video sequences. In our technique, we uses frame differencing to represent object motion. Space-time correlation is used to characterize different type of motions. Our motion features are defined by Renyi entropy and mean values calculated from the correlations. A support vector machine-based classifier is used to classify the motion features. Our experimental results show that our technique is quite effective at distinguishing human motion from animal motion using infrared video sequences.
Force Sensing for the Identification of Single-Cell Microorganisms

Identification of cells of a specific type is a fundamental problem both for laboratory analysis and for future nanorobots operating in physiological environments for health care applications. This paper shows that force sensing with atomic force microscopes by using tips functionalized with antibodies is an effective technique for detecting microorganisms that cannot be identified by optical microscopy. Experimental results are presented for the identification of brown tide algae, which are single-cell marine microorganisms with dimensions on the order of 1-2 micrometers, and for several control experiments
Time-Lapse Photography of Bacillus subtilis L-Forms Replicating in Liquid Medium

Abstract Phase-contrast observations indicate that an L-form of Bacillus subtilis divides in liquid medium by a “budding-like” mechanism without participation of “large bodies” or “elementary bodies.”
Secondary acute myeloblastic leukemia with a Ph translocation in a treated Wegener's granulomatosis.

Ph-positive acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) developing in a treated case of Wegener's granulomatosis is reported. The patient was a 70-year-old white male who received cyclophosphamide (150 mg/day) starting in July 1978; in May 1984 the patient was diagnosed as having AML, following a diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome lasting 3 months. Cytogenetic study of bone marrow cells at the diagnosis of the myelodysplastic syndrome revealed a standard Ph translocation in addition to numerical chromosome changes [i.e., 45,XY, -5, -7, -8, +19, +mar/45,XY, -5, -7, -8, +19, +mar,t(9;22)(q34;q11]). The events in this case suggest a strong possibility of the Ph-positive AML being a secondary disease related to prior cyclophosphamide therapy.
Communication in the family: The influence of time, relational prototypes, and irrationality

(1993). Communication in the family: The influence of time, relational prototypes, and irrationality. Communication Monographs: Vol. 60, Into the New Century, pp. 42-54.
Fifteen years of study of psychoactive snuffs of South America: 1967-1982--a review.

Abstract Much has been learned concerning psychoactive snuffs in South America in the past 15 years since I delivered a review paper in the now famous symposium “Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs” held in San Francisco in 1967 (Efron et al., 1967; Schultes, 1967). There is still much to be investigated, but it seems that a recapitulation at this time may be warranted. The advances in our knowledge have come about as a result of field work as well as laboratory research and have been effected by investigators in several disciplines: archaeology, ethnobotany, ethnology and phytochemistry.
The contribution of acidulant to the antibacterial activity of acid soluble α- and β-chitosan solutions and their films

This study evaluated individual contributions of dissolving acids (acetic acid, lactic acid, and hydrochloric acid) or acid solubilized chitosan to the antibacterial activity against Listeria innocua and Escherichia coli as solutions and dried films. Solutions containing chitosan showed significantly (P < 0.05) different inhibitory activity (measured as percentage of inhibition (PI), in percent) against L. innocua and E. coli, compared to equivalent acid solutions. This increase was calculated as additional inhibition (AI, in percent), which could be as high as 65% in solutions containing 300-320 kDa chitosan depending on the acid type, bacterial species, and the chitosan form (α or β). Solutions containing 4-5 kDa chitosan had lower AI and showed much greater variability among the different chitosan forms, acid types, and bacterial species. Higher molecular weight (Mw) chitosan also showed significantly higher levels of adsorption to bacterial cells than that of lower Mw samples, suggesting that the observed increase in inhibition was the result of surface phenomena. The contribution of acids to the antibacterial activity of chitosan films was assessed by comparing non-rinsed and rinsed films (rinsed in the appropriate broth to remove residual acids and active fragments formed on the dried film). Rinsing β-chitosan films has reduced PI by as much as 28% compared with non-rinsed films, indicating that part of the antibacterial activity of chitosan films is due to the presence of soluble acid compounds and/or other active fragments. Overall, both acidulant and chitosan were found to contribute to the antibacterial activity of acid solubilized α- and β-chitosan, with the exact antibacterial activity of chitosan varying based on the solution and film properties, suggesting a complex interaction.
532-nanometer potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser-induced expression of selective matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in the rat larynx.

Objective/Hypothesis: The 532-nm KTP laser is clinically useful to induce benign vocal fold lesion regression without a fibrotic response. Previously, we described an in vivo model for KTP-induced injury in the rat larynx. This study uses this model to correlate the KTP-induced histologic and biochemical changes with the absence of long-term vocal fold fibrosis seen in clinical scenarios. Study Design: In vivo. Methods: Unilateral vocal fold injury was induced via KTP laser at 10W (20mS pulse width) as described by our laboratory previously. Animals were subjected to serial endoscopic imaging from postoperative days 1 through 3. Animals were euthanized at 1 day, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks posttreatment and subjected to histologic analyses via hematoxylin and eosin and trichrome staining, as well as RT-PCR analyses for MMP-3, 9, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and COX-2 mRNA expression. Uninjured vocal folds were used as controls. Results: Our study revealed gross healing of the vocal fold mucosa by 3 days posttreatment, and an immediate, moderate inflammatory infiltrate with no subsequent ultrastructural changes on histology. MMP-3 and COX-2 expression increased transiently, although no changes were seen in expression of MMP-9, an MMP involved in extracellular matrix remodeling, or TGF-β, a profibrotic cytokine. Conclusions: These data suggest that the KTP laser induces a modest inflammatory response, selective MMP expression, and no long-term fibrotic processes in a clinically relevant simulation. Laryngoscope, 2011
Confidence limit variation for a single IMRT system following the TG119 protocol

Purpose: To evaluate the robustness of TG119-based quality assurance metrics for an IMRT system. Methods: Four planners constructed treatment plans for the five IMRT test cases described in TG119. All plans were delivered to a 30 cm × 30 cm × 15 cm solid water phantom in one treatment session in order to minimize session-dependent variation from phantom setup, film quality, machine performance, etc. Composite measurements utilized film and an ionization chamber. Per-field measurements were collected using a diode array device at an effective depth of 5 cm. All data collected were analyzed using the TG119 specifications to determine the confidence limit values for each planner separately and then compared. Results: The mean variance of ion chamber measurements for each planner was within 1.7% of the planned dose. The resulting confidence limits were 3.13%, 1.98%, 3.65%, and 4.39%. Confidence limit values determined by composite film analysis were 8.06%, 13.4%, 9.30%, and 16.5%. Confidence limits from per-field measurements were 1.55%, 0.00%, 0.00%, and 2.89%. Conclusions: For a single IMRT system, the accuracy assessment provided by TG119-based quality assurance metrics showed significant variations in the confidence limits between planners across all composite and per-field evaluations. This observed variation is likely due to the different levels of modulation between each planner’s set of plans. Performing the TG119 evaluation using plans produced by a single planner may not provide an adequate estimation of IMRT system accuracy.
Ecosystem engineers and geomorphological signatures in landscapes

Abstract Biogeomorphologists study the roles of biota in landscape formation and decay. Ecologists interested in ecosystem engineering study environmental change caused by biota and the consequences for the engineer, other organisms, and ecological processes. The interface is geomorphological change, an interface both are aware of but study somewhat independently and differently. Interaction and integration among the two fields is the goal of this special issue. Here I take an ecological perspective of geomorphological change caused by ecosystem engineers in patches within landscapes that I hope can help facilitate this goal. I ask the following general questions: When will an ecosystem engineering species create a geomorphological signature in a landscape? What, in qualitative terms, is such a signature? How can the signature be estimated and how long will it last? What engineer attributes and ecological factors will determine signature change? What creates complications? How do the answers inform whether or not life leaves a geomorphological signature? To attempt answers, I develop a provisional, general theory of ecosystem engineering signatures that draws on and integrates a geomorphological foundation of balance between formation and decay; landscape patch dynamics; a general framework for ecosystem engineering; and empirical studies. I treat a landscape engineering signature as the balance of rates of formation (F) and rates of decay (D) across patches whose ratio value (F/D) can be transformed (> 1), intermediate (1) or untransformed (
Membranes of mammary gland. I. Bovine mammary mitochondria.

Abstract Purified mitochondrial fractions were isolated from lactating bovine mammary gland and were characterized by electron microscopy and assayed for electron transport ability, cytochrome content, and enzymes characteristic of other cellular membranes. The mitochondria contained 0.35mg of lipid per milligram of protein. The major constituents of the phospholipid fraction, which accounted for 85% of the total lipids, were choline and ethanolamine glycerophosphatides and diphosphatidyl glycerol. Significant amounts of coenzyme Q, cholesterol, and free fatty acids also were present. The fatty acids of mitochondrial lipids were highly unsaturated. Oleic and linoleic acids were the major unsaturated acyl residues encountered; only small amounts of unsaturated acids with chain lengths greater than 18 carbon atoms were detected. Of the individual phospholipids, diphosphatidyl glycerol contained the most and sphingomyelin the least unsaturated fatty acids. Electrophoretically, both qualitative and quantitative differences in protein were observed comparing mitochondria from bovine heart and mammary gland. Compared with literature values, mammary mitochondria contain lipid, coenzyme Q, cytochromes a 3 + a , and NADH-cytochrome c reductase in amounts near those of bovine heart mitochondria. Mitochondria from bovine liver and kidney contain lesser amounts of these constituents. Thus, bovine mammary mitochondria resemble those of heart in composition and electron transport ability.
A 48-year-old man with chronic right shoulder pain and weakness after a fall

A 48-year-old man presented to the orthopedic surgery clinic for evaluation of significant right shoulder pain, weakness, and numbness on the anterior aspect of his right shoulder. Eleven months previously, the patient fell off a ladder and sustained an anterior right shoulder dislocation. The patient was able to reduce his shoulder himself within 5 min. MRI of the shoulder was performed (Fig. 1).
Comparison of Helix Interactions in Membrane and Soluble α-Bundle Proteins

Helix-helix interactions are important for the folding, stability, and function of membrane proteins. Here, two independent and complementary methods are used to investigate the nature and distribution of amino acids that mediate helix-helix interactions in membrane and soluble alpha-bundle proteins. The first method characterizes the packing density of individual amino acids in helical proteins based on the van der Waals surface area occluded by surrounding atoms. We have recently used this method to show that transmembrane helices pack more tightly, on average, than helices in soluble proteins. These studies are extended here to characterize the packing of interfacial and noninterfacial amino acids and the packing of amino acids in the interfaces of helices that have either right- or left-handed crossing angles, and either parallel or antiparallel orientations. We show that the most abundant tightly packed interfacial residues in membrane proteins are Gly, Ala, and Ser, and that helices with left-handed crossing angles are more tightly packed on average than helices with right-handed crossing angles. The second method used to characterize helix-helix interactions involves the use of helix contact plots. We find that helices in membrane proteins exhibit a broader distribution of interhelical contacts than helices in soluble proteins. Both helical membrane and soluble proteins make use of a general motif for helix interactions that relies mainly on four residues (Leu, Ala, Ile, Val) to mediate helix interactions in a fashion characteristic of left-handed helical coiled coils. However, a second motif for mediating helix interactions is revealed by the high occurrence and high average packing values of small and polar residues (Ala, Gly, Ser, Thr) in the helix interfaces of membrane proteins. Finally, we show that there is a strong linear correlation between the occurrence of residues in helix-helix interfaces and their packing values, and discuss these results with respect to membrane protein structure prediction and membrane protein stability.
Cost Comparison Of Expendable, Hybrid and Reusable Launch Vehicles

This paper compares d evelopmental , production, and maintenance cos ts (DPM) of two stage -to -orbit expendable , hybrid , and reusable launch vehicles . This comparison was accomplished using top level mass and cost estimating relations hips . Mass estimat ing relationships were correlated to existing launch system data and ongoing launch system studies. Cost estimating relations hips were derived from Dr. Dietrich Koelle’s “Handbook of Cost Engineering for Space Transportation Systems : Transcost 7 .1”. Hybr id launch vehicles appear to be preferable if current or modest increases in launch rates are projected while reusable launch vehicles appear preferable for large projected increases in launch rates.
Catheter ablation of idiopathic ventricular tachycardia.

Idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias can originate from either the endocardial, midmyocardial, or epicardial regions of the heart. The outflow tracts and basal regions of the ventricle tend to be common locations of origin of these tachycardias. The anatomy of this region of the heart is both fascinating and, at times, challenging from a procedural standpoint. The orientation of the outflow tracts and basal regions allows mapping of ventricular tachycardias (VTs) using multiple anatomic approaches, such as through the coronary vasculature, directly through a percutaneous pericardial approach (transverse sinus), and through the atrial appendages.1 The intricate relationship of the outflow and basal regions of the ventricles to the coronary vasculature (arteries and veins) provides useful avenues for epicardial mapping and catheter ablation (Figure). Coronary veins provide endovascular access to the epicardial regions of the ventricles, especially the crucial area between the junction of the great cardiac vein and the anterior interventricular vein (Figure). Figure. The relationship of the ventricular outflow tracts to the coronary vasculature. Left, right anterior oblique view (RAO); right, left anterior oblique view (LAO). Coronary arteriography, outflow, and coronary venous mapping from a patient with VT that was shown to originate from the region of the left main coronary artery. The left main coronary artery was mapped with an ablation catheter through the aorta. These images also show simultaneous mapping from the venous and arterial systems. Note the close relationship between the AIV (location shown by the AIV mapping catheter) and the left anterior descending coronary artery adjacent to it (arrows). Abl indicates ablation catheter; Map, mapping catheter. Article see p 274 Coronary sinus venography was first described in the …
Evaluation of Clinical Methods for Rating Dyspnea

To evaluate available clinical methods (self ratings and questionnaire) for rating dyspnea, we (1) compared scores from the recently developed baseline dyspnea index (BDI) with the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale and the oxygen-cost diagram (OCD) in 153 patients with various respiratory diseases who sought medical care for shortness of breath; and (2) evaluated the relationships between dyspnea scores and standard measures of physiologic lung function in the same patients. The dyspnea scores were all significantly correlated (r = 0.48 to 0.70; p less than 0.001). Agreement between two observers or with repeated use was satisfactory with all three clinical rating methods. The BDI showed the highest correlations with physiologic measurements. Dyspnea scores were most highly related to spirometric values (r = 0.78; p less than 0.001) for patients with asthma, maximal respiratory pressures (r = 0.34 and 0.35; p less than 0.001) for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and PImax (r = 0.51; p = 0.01) and FVC (r = 0.44; p = 0.03) for those with interstitial lung disease. These results show that: (1) the BDI, MRC scale, and OCD provide significantly related measures of dyspnea; (2) the clinical ratings of dyspnea correlate significantly with physiologic parameters of lung function; and (3) breathlessness may be related to the pathophysiology of the specific respiratory disease. The clinical rating of dyspnea may provide quantitative information complementary to measurements of lung function.
Complete Rations for Dairy Cattle. III. Evaluation of Protein Percent and Quality, and Citrus Pulp-Corn Substitutions

Abstract An experiment with complete rations containing 25.0% sugarcane bagasse pellets evaluated protein requirements of lactating cows and how well these requirements could be satisfied with urea. Several other objectives also were evaluated with 3 × 3 Latin squares. Treatments of basal rations and two increments of soybean meal were factorialized with two percents of citrus pulp and two quantities of methionine hydroxy analog which were fed continuously. The experiment involved 36 cows fed one of the three urea or one of the three soybean meal percents in each of three 4-wk periods. (1) High-corn (8.0% citrus pulp) depressed fat percent compared to 43.1% citrus pulp diets. (2) Urea depressed feed intake at 1.7 and 3.0%, particurlary in the high-corn diets. (3) Increments of soybean meal increased solids corrected milk production as compared to basal, but urea increments did not. Methionine hydroxy analog increased fat yield in cows receiving soybean meal diets but was a detriment to feed intake and solids corrected milk in high urea rations.
The interactive effects of cocaine/gender on immune function in mice. An observation of in vivo acute cocaine exposure

The present experiments used a mouse model including both sexes to study the impact of acute cocaine exposure on the function of four major immunocompetent cell types (T, B cells, NK, and macrophages). Cocaine hydrochloride, 5 mg or 40 mg/kg, was administrated by i.p. injection to C57BL/6 mice. Thymocytes and splenocytes were obtained 24 h after injection. Acute in vivo cocaine exposure inhibited the proliferation of T lymphocytes in response to Con-A in both thymocytes and splenocytes. However, the attenuated IL-2 production was only seen in thymocytes. These effects on T cells were greater in male mice than in female mice. The function of macrophages was also impaired by acute cocaine exposure; however, the impact was greater in female than in male mice. In conclusion, the effects of acute cocaine exposure altered the functions of immunocompetent cells and the effects varied with gender.
Carotenoids, vitamin A, and estrogen receptor status in breast cancer

Among patients with breast cancer, tumors that contain estrogen receptors (ER) are associated with improved survival and better response to hormone therapy than those not expressing these receptors. The purpose of these case comparison studies was to examine the relationship between carotenoids, vitamin A, and the tumor ER status in women at diagnosis of primary breast cancer. The focus of the first study was the relationship between dietary intake and ER status, and the focus of the second study was the relationship between ER status and the plasma carotenoid, retinol, and tocopherol concentrations. We evaluated tumor ER status and self-reported dietary intake in 142 women and plasma concentrations of carotenoids, retinol, and tocopherols in 149 women, at diagnosis of breast cancer, before any medical or surgical treatment. In the first study the overall odds of ER-positive status were increased in relation to number of mammograms in the past five years, number of breast-fed babies, dietary carotenoid intake, and more frequent intake of yellow and green vegetables. Overall odds of ER-positive status were decreased in relation to years of oral contraceptive use and preformed vitamin A intake. In the second study older women, women with higher plasma lutein concentration, and women not using beta-carotene supplements were more likely to be ER positive, when data were adjusted for body mass index and factors that may influence breast cancer risk or hormonal status. Significant independent relationships between plasma retinol or tocopherol concentrations and ER status were not observed. The strong and independent relationships between carotenoid intake, plasma lutein concentration, and ER status may relate to observations linking a carotenoid-rich diet with improved prognosis after diagnosis of breast cancer.
How crop-climate research contributes to cotton improvement

In recent years there has been renewed interest in the role of the environment in eropimprovement research. A basic program of research in genotypeenvironment relationships was begun at Substation No. 8 of the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station at Lubbock, Texas, in 1959. Although this research is still in the preliminary stages, several practical leads have already been developed. For instance, it has been found that, at a given location, date of planting had a greater over-all effeet on yield than did variety. The data show also that the performance of a given variety depends on the accuracy of the estimates of the length of the growing season and the number of days of "optimum" temperatures that will oecur during the growing season. A method of predicting performanee of various varietal types by estimating "heat units" during the growing season has been devised. Since date of planting is a major factor in determining the length of the growing season, it also contributes importantly to the development of "heat-unit" estimates. Experiments at the Lubbock station have shown that, if planting can proceed during the "optimum" period in the spring, certain varietal types should be planted. On the other hand, if, beeause of adverse weather, hail damage or some other condition or circumstance, planting must be delayed beyond the "optimum" period, other tested varietal types should be planted.
Summarizing the logistics of liberation from mechanical ventilation.

Abstract A goal of critical care clinicians should be to liberate patients from ventilators on the first possible day to avoid the multitude of complications associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation. The past decade has been marked by a deluge of scientific studies that have illuminated methods to expedite successful liberation from mechanical ventilation. This article summarizes the principle themes for this issue of Respiratory Care Clinics of North America and distills the available data to two simple weaning algorithms.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Diet

Increasing attention is being paid to nutritional and metabolic management of traumatic brain injury patients. The gross metabolic changes that occur after injury have been found to be influenced by both macronutrients, that is, dietary ratios of fat, carbohydrates, and protein, and micronutrients, for example, vitamins and minerals. Alterations in diet and nutritional strategies have been shown to decrease both morbidity and mortality after injury. Despite this knowledge, defining optimal nutritional support following traumatic brain injury continues to be an ongoing challenge.
Calcium currents in rat motor nerve terminals

Abstract Ca 2+ currents in response to an action potential were recorded extracellularly under non-voltage clamped conditions from rat motor nerve terminals. The Ca 2+ current was blocked by Cd 2+ , Co 2+ , and Ni 2+ . A residual component that could not be blocked by inorganic cations was inhibited completely by tetrodotoxin (TTX). The Ca 2+ current was also moderately sensitive to the N- and L-type Ca 2+ channel-blocker ω-conotoxin but was insensitive to the L-type channel-specific dihydropyridines. When a fraction of the terminal K + currents was blocked by 10 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA), the Ca 2+ current duration decreased only slightly as stimulation frequency increased from 0.5 to 20 Hz. When K + currents were blocked by TEA plus 3,4-diaminopyridine (250 μM) though, the Ca 2+ current duration decreased from 70ms to8–10ms as stimulation frequency increased from 0.5 to 20 Hz. Recovery of the duration following 20-Hz stimulation occurred faster during subsequent stimulation at 0.5 Hz than at 2 Hz. ATP and ACh inhibit Ca 2+ currents at stimulation frequencies ranging from 0.5 to 20 Hz; however, when the purinergic and cholinergic autoreceptors are blocked by theophylline (100 μM) and pirenzipine (3 μM), respectively, the frequency-induced decrease in current duration persisted. Thus, motor nerve terminal Ca 2+ current duration is determined by stimulus repetition frequency; this appears to involve intracellular Ca 2+ accumulation, although effects secondary to variability in the time course of changes in terminal membrane potentials cannot be ruled out.
Electrical soliton oscillator

This paper introduces the first robust self-sustained electrical soliton oscillator. It self-starts by amplifying background noise to produce a stable train of periodic electrical soliton pulses. The oscillator is made possible by coupling a nonlinear transmission line with a unique amplifier that tames the instability-prone soliton dynamics. Two experimental prototypes, built at the discrete level, fully demonstrate the detailed operation of the circuit. The soliton oscillator is an electrical analog of optical soliton mode-locked systems
A summary measure of pro- and anti-oxidant exposures and risk of incident, sporadic, colorectal adenomas

Despite compelling basic science evidence, the search for causal associations linking specific pro- and anti-oxidants to presumably oxidative stress-related neoplasms, such as colorectal adenoma, has produced inconsistent results. We developed an oxidative balance score (OBS) to characterize the pro-oxidant and anti-oxidant exposures of 2,305 participants in a case–control study of colorectal adenoma that used both endoscopy-confirmed and community controls. Twelve lifestyle medical and dietary factors with known pro- or anti-oxidant properties were considered. Each high anti-oxidant exposure and low pro-oxidant exposure was awarded one or two points depending on the level of exposure, and the points for each OBS component were summed. We observed a significant inverse association between OBS (continuous variable) and colorectal adenoma in the analyses with either community, or endoscopy controls (each p-trend < 0.01). When the OBS was treated as an ordinal variable and a score of ≤3 points was used as the referent category, in the analyses with the endoscopy controls the adjusted odds ratios for scores of 4–6, 7–9, 10–12, 13–15, and 16+, were 0.42, 0.32, 0.22, 0.20, and 0.19, respectively, with all 95% confidence intervals excluding 1.0. The corresponding analysis for community controls showed a similar trend. Our findings are in line with the basic science evidence supporting the role of oxidative stress in colorectal neoplasia.
Analyzing the Effects of Context-Aware Mobile Design Principles on Student Learning

The adoption of mobile technology is rapidly transforming how individuals obtain information. Learning occurs when content is accessed in a recursive process of awareness, exploration, reflection and resolution within one's social context. Specifically, the most visible, current definitions of mobile learning provide an overview of the learning theory and device characteristics informing mobility, but do not focus on how people interact with mobile devices in their everyday lives. The purpose of this study was to test the effects of context-aware mobile design principles on student learning. The study had 60 participants randomly assigned to treatment and control conditions. The results indicated that the treatment group scored a significantly higher mean score than the control. The data suggests that mobile learning is more than just an extension or luggable form of electronic learning. It requires a designer to understand instructional and software design, mobile human-computer interactions, and learning theory.
Mechanism of improved maintenance of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in stored blood by the xanthone compound 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-6-(1-H-tetrazole-5-yl)xanthen-9-one (BW A440C)☆☆☆

Abstract The effect of the xanthone derivative 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-6-(1- H -tetrazole-5-yl)xanthen-9-one (BW A440C) on red cells was studied. When added to stored red cells at a concentration of 6 mM, greatly improved preservation of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) was observed. There was no effect on internal pH of the erythrocyte. At a concentration 0.500 mM, many red cell enzyme activities were inhibited completely. At a 0.050 mM concentration, however, inhibition of pyruvate kinase and diphosphoglycerate phosphatase was most striking. Inhibition of either of these enzymes could result in elevation of 2,3-DPG levels. BW A440C in concentrations which elevated 2,3-DPG levels in humans caused a decrease in 2,3-DPG levels in rabbits and markedly impaired the viability of 21-day stored rabbit erythrocytes.
THE CLINICAL INTERPRETATION OF THE ENDOMETRIAL BIOPSY: REPORT OF THREE HUNDRED CASES

THE OVARIAN CYCLE, with the concomitant changes in the endometrium, has been the subject of intensive study during the past decade. In an attempt to clarify some of the points which are still obscure we have studied more than five hundred cases by means of the endometrial biopsy and now report on our findings. Early descriptions (i, 2, 3, 4) of the endometrium were based entirely upon the morphologic changes encountered, but with the advent of knowl′edge of the function of the ovarian hormones, these changes can now be in′ terpreted from a physiologic standpoint. Experimental work (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) has demonstrated that the follicular hormone, estrone, produces the early endometrial growth changes characteristic of the first half of the menstrual cycle and that the corpus luteum hormone, progesterone, transforms the endometrium which is primed and maintained by estrone, into a secretory tissue.
Adrenergic and peptidergic innervation of the trachealis muscle in the normal horse: a preliminary report.

Abstract The tone of respiratory smooth muscle is largely determined by the input from autonomic nerves. The distribution of adrenergic and selected nonadrenergic, non-cholinergic ( NANC ) nerves in the normal equine trachealis muscle was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The smooth muscle of the trachealis was found to contain numerous nerves immunoreactive for an enzymatic marker of adrenergic nerves, as well as many nerves immunoreactive for a putative NANC neurotransmitter, peptide histidine isoleucine, a potent bronchodilator. The tissues surrounding the respiratory smooth muscle contained numerous nerves immunoreactive for the neuropeptides substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide, which can cause marked vasodilation and bronchoconstriction. The complex innervation of the equine trachea should be kept in mind when interpreting the results of physiological experiments.
Adjustment in Africa and Fifty Years of the Bretton Woods Institutions: Change or Consolidation?

ABSTRACT Responding critically to the 1994 World Bank report (Adjustment in Africa: Reform, Results and the Road Ahead) this article examines the circumstances of adoption of structural adjustment lending (SAL) by the World Bank and the IMF. It argues that the present adjustment paradigm of the multilateral institutions has undergone successive reconceptualizations designed to co-opt a variety of sources of intellectual and political challenge manifested during the 1980s. However the emerging syntheses remain precarious in both intellectual and policy terms and have been characterised by equivocation and lack of real action. Hence they should not be seen as constituting a fundamental departure in the approach to adjustment. The article discusses some of the critiques levelled against adjustment by African and other development economists and urges fundamental rethinking of adjustment and particularly in Jive areas: conditionality, design, ownership, monitoring, and impact on democratic consolidation.
Examining the Potential of Community-Based After-School Programs for Latino Youth

Results are presented from two pilot studies examining the potential influence of community-based after-school programs (ASPs) on regionally diverse Latino youth of varying ages. Study 1 examined relations between dimensions of ASP attendance and content, and ethnic identity development, and self-worth in urban Latino adolescents. In this study, higher ratings of the ASP’s emphasis on ethnic socialization were associated with a more developed ethnic identity, while greater intensity of ASP participation and perceptions of ASP quality were associated with higher levels of self-worth. Study 2 examined relations between ASP participation and development of concentration and emotion regulation skills in rural Latino grade-school youth. In this study, youth who regularly attended the ASP demonstrated significantly better concentration and regulation skills than those who did not regularly attend, if they exhibited preexisting concentration and regulation problems. Findings illustrate how ASPs with varying strategies, activities, and assessment tools can be evaluated in the interest of designing future large-scale investigations into ASPs and Latino positive youth development.
Local IndustryEmployment Share and the Experiences of Displaced Workers

This article examines how industries' share of employment in local labor markets affects displaced workers' reemployment, industry switching, and earnings losses. A key result is that workers displaced from industries with low employment shares are more likely to switch industries after displacement. Earnings loss estimates indicate that for most workers, displacement from an industry that employs a smaller share of the local labor force is associated with larger earnings losses.
The synthesis and characterization of Dy doped into the perovskite BaCeO3

Abstract Concentrations of up to 20 mol.% Dy have been substituted for tetravalent cerium in the perovskite BaCeO3. 161Dy Mossbauer spectroscopy demonstrates that the dysprosium in this host is present in the trivalent oxidation state. Effective magnetic moments obtained on the same samples confirm these findings. Line broadening as a function of dysprosium concentration, observed from both X-ray and Mossbauer measurements, is attributed to the presence of lattice defects (oxygen vacancies) which are necessary for charge compensation.
Metformin Inhibits Ganglionic Neurotransmission in Renal Nerves

Abstract Intravenous administration of the antihyperglycemic agent metformin decreases arterial pressure and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA). To test the hypothesis that metformin inhibits SNA by interrupting ganglionic neurotransmission, we compared the actions of intravenous administration of metformin and the ganglionic blocker trimethaphan on postganglionic renal and preganglionic adrenal sympathetic nerves in pentobarbital-anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats. Intravenous metformin elicited dose-dependent decreases in postganglionic renal SNA (1 mg/kg: 0±0%; 10 mg/kg: −20±4%; 100 mg/kg: −92±3%; n=7). Conversely, only the maximal dose of metformin affected preganglionic adrenal SNA (100 mg/kg: Δadrenal SNA=−14±6%; n=8). Ganglionic blockade with intravenous trimethaphan (5 mg/kg) produced a differential sympathoinhibitory response similar to the response observed after high-dose metformin (Δrenal SNA=−100±3%; Δadrenal SNA=−17±7%; P
The Modulation of the Low-Latitude Radiation Budget by Cloud and Surface Forcing on Interannual Time Scales

Regionally confined interannual perturbations in the tropical radiation budget associated with east-west circulations are examined along with the forcing mechanisms of these perturbations in relation to surface and cloudiness variability. A zonal harmonic analysis of emitted longwave radiation emphasizes that these variations are largely controlled at the planetary wave scale. The overall effect leads to an approximately 50 deg/yr propagation phase speed that is considerably slower than the oceanic Kelvin wave capable of driving east-west longwave (LW) anomalies through SST feedback. Examination of the time-dependent radiative energetics over the tropics reveals that the aforementioned anomaly LW propagation is mainly due to cloud forcing associated with east-west circulation changes. Diabatic heating associated with coupled ocean-atmosphere feedback appears to be larger responsible for the LW anomaly propagation.
Long-term effects of maternal separation on the responsiveness of the circadian system to melatonin in the diurnal nonhuman primate (Macaca mulatta)

Depression is often linked to early-life adversity and circadian disturbances. Here, we assessed the long-term impact of early-life adversity, particularly preweaning mother-infant separation, on the circadian system's responsiveness to a time giver or synchronizer (Zeitgeber). Mother-reared (MR) and peer-reared (PR) rhesus monkeys were subjected to chronic jet-lag, a forced desynchrony protocol of 22 hr T-cycles [11:11 hr light:dark (LD) cycles] to destabilize the central circadian organization. MR and PR monkeys subjected to the T-cycles showed split locomotor activity rhythms with periods of ~22 hr (entrained) and ~24 hr (free-running), simultaneously. Continuous melatonin treatment in the drinking water (20 μg/mL) gradually increased the amplitude of the entrained rhythm at the expense of the free-running rhythm, reaching complete entrainment by 1 wk. Upon release into constant dim light, a rearing effect on anticipation for both the predicted light onset and food presentation was observed. In MR monkeys, melatonin did not affect the amplitude of anticipatory behavior. Interestingly, however, PR macaques showed light onset and food anticipatory activities in response to melatonin treatment. These results demonstrate for the first time a rearing-dependent effect of maternal separation in macaques, imprinting long-term plastic changes on the circadian system well into late adulthood. These effects could be counteracted by the synchronizer molecule melatonin. We conclude that the melatonergic system is targeted by early-life adversity of maternal separation and that melatonin supplementation ameliorates the negative impact of stress on the circadian system.
Effects of two Aroclor fractions on the productivity and diversity of algae from two lentic ecosystems

During the summer of 1976, samples of the algal communities from Stony Brook Pond, Norfolk, Ma. and Norton Reservoir, Norton, Ma. were exposed in laboratory culture to various concentrations of Aroclor 1232 and 1254. Although the algal communities of the two systems were quite different in composition, the Aroclors exerted some similar effects upon both. Aroclor 1232 caused a significantly greater reduction in primary productivity than 1254 and the reduction, with both Aroclor fractions, was dose related. Algal populations were differentially affected by Aroclor exposure.
Chagas' Disease (American Trypanosomiasis)

This series is based on the Infectious Diseases section of the web site Refugee Health ∼ Immigrant Health, available on the World Wide Web at http://www.baylor.edu/~Charles_Kemp/refugee_health.htm. The site was developed through a contract with the Texas Department of Health as part of an ongoing effort to improve the health of refugees and immigrants.
Groundwater Flow Beneath a Hypersaline Pond, Cluett Key, Florida Bay, Florida

Abstract Florida Bay carbonate mud islands are known to be sites of Holocene diagenesis, including dolomitization, and the hydrology is an essential component of this process. On Cluett Key, a typical mud island in western Florida Bay, groundwater salinities range to 145‰ beneath a shallow ephemeral pond which occupies 70% of the island. A sharp hydrostratigraphic boundary separates low-permeability unconsolidated carbonate mud from underlying highly permeable Pleistocene limestone. We report the results of a 2 year project aimed at determining the rates, patterns, and driving force of groundwater flow beneath the island. Water level measurements are used to demonstrate the presence of a large hydraulic head drive caused by the difference in elevations of the pond and Florida Bay, and enhanced by the higher density of groundwaters in the carbonate mud compared with groundwater in the limestone. The hydraulic head drive is essentially vertical because Florida Bay water levels are transmitted with little attenuation to the limestone underlying the island. Distributions of groundwater density and pore pressures are consistent with vertical groundwater flow. Based on an estimated vertical hydraulic conductivity of approximately 5×10−3 m day−1, vertical interstitial velocities are on the order of 25 cm year−1 with a residence time in the carbonate mud of approximately 15 years. This velocity is very similar to that calculated independently from tritium concentrations in pore waters. Both horizontal and vertical density gradients exist in the carbonate mud. These density variations induce circulations owing to vorticity and may lead to the formation of instability plumes (reflux), but dynamical scaling suggests that these motions are much slower than those induced by the dominant hydraulic drive. Buoyancy effects may, however, be dominant on other lower islands in Florida Bay where the hydraulic head drive is much smaller than on Cluett Key. Diffusion may blur sharp gradients in salt, Ca2+, or Mg2+, but is not an important vehicle for wholesale movement of these species through the island. Cluett Key shares some similarities with Holocene carbonate atoll islands: the two-layer hydrostratigraphy, and transmission of tidal signals under the island. In contrast to atoll islands, however, groundwater flow on Cluett Key is governed by transmission of the mean sea level to the base of the Holocene. Basal tidal fluctuations induce little mixing in the low-permeability Holocene sediments. In addition, the groundwater on Cluett Key is dominantly oceanic, not meteoric, and is consequently denser than underlying groundwater. © 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.
DEVELOPMENTAL AND OTHER ASPECTS OF [35S]CYSTEINE TRANSPORT BY RAT BRAIN SYNAPTOSOMES

— Cysteine uptake by rat brain synaptosomes occurs by active transport. The uptake by synaptosomes isolated from newborn brain is slower and the concentration gradient achieved is lower than that observed in adult tissue. Synaptosomal fractions from both adult and newborn rat brains accumulate cysteine by two saturable systems. The calculated parameters show that the maximum rates of cysteine uptake in adult synaptosomes are approximately twice that observed in newborn synaptosomes for both the high and low affinity systems. The uptake by the high affinity system is sodium dependent and is inhibited by glycine and dibasic amino acids. Uptake by synaptosomes from 14-day-old animals is close to that observed in adult tissue. The uptake of cysteine differs greatly from that of cystine since the oxidized form, cystine, is taken up more slowly by systems with low affinities which are sodium independent, do not interact with dibasic amino acids and are independent of age.
Juvenile hormone-induced RNA and specific protein synthesis in an adult insect

Immunologically identifiable female-specific proteins are essential for egg maturation in several species of insects. With the exception of the saturniid moths, the synthesis of these proteins is under the control of the corpus allatum hormone (JH). Both isolated, naturally occurring JHs and the lower homologue epoxyfarnesenic acid caused the synthesis of the female-specific protein in Leucophaea maderae. Actinomycin D completely blocked the synthesis of the specific protein. JH also increased the synthesis of total sodium dodecylsulfate-phenol extractable RNA. In a complete cell-free system, RNA extracted from egg-maturing females stimulated female-specific protein synthesis. RNA from males or allatectomized females did not stimulate this specific protein synthesis. The sum of the data appears to support Karlson's hypothesis on hormonal control of transcription of specific messenger.
Endoscopic stapling diverticulotomy: an audit of difficulties, outcome, and patient satisfaction.

Objective To evaluate the procedure in terms of technical difficulties, patient satisfaction, symptom relief, recurrence, and further management. Study design Retrospective study including 41 patients who underwent endoscopic stapling diverticulotomy. Clinical notes were reviewed, and patients were sent a patient satisfaction questionnaire. Statistical analysis was done using the χ2 square test. Setting Teaching hospital. Results Larger pouches had the best results; 81.578% were satisfied with the surgery, and 86.84% had improved swallowing. Complications presented in 6 patients (15%), including a perforated pouch and an esophageal perforation. Complications were more frequent in small pouches. Conclusions and significance Endoscopic stapling diverticulotomy offers rapid recovery in most patients, with early oral intake and short hospital stay. There is a high degree of symptoms relief, and the patient’s satisfaction rate is high. The assessment of the pharyngeal pouch size is an important factor when deciding the best management for a patient with a pharyngeal pouch. EBM rating: C-4