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It is challenging to screen for and treat pancreatic cancer (PC), an extremely malignant tumor, both early in the course of the disease and as part of the later stages of treatment. In this article, a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) technique for detecting PC early, particularly when assessing PC staging, is suggested. With this, clinical staff will be better equipped to give a treatment plan and can intervene with therapy early on as a result. This article addresses the process of effectively segmenting and classifying a pancreatic tumor using a deep learning (DL) network by following the four stages outlined below. Initially, computed tomography (CT) images are used for diagnosis, which is obtained from TCIA public access. Following the raw image acquisition, these images need to be pre-processed using the Boosted Anisotropic Diffusion Filter (BADF) and Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE). Then, using the DMFCM segmentation approach, the images are segmented. Through Bag of Visual Words (BOVW) and Support Vector Machine (SVM), features are extracted, and the best features are given as input to the classifier. Eventually, classification is carried out using optimized 3D convoluted neural networks (3D CNN) using Improved Harris Hawks Optimization (IHHO). The implemented model achieved better results of 98.32% accuracy, 99% sensitivity, and 99% specificity. The proposed model is compared to some cutting-edge models such as normal CNNs, LSTMs, RESNETs, RNNs, and 3D CNNs to determine which one performs well. In terms of specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, and recall, the proposed model scored better than other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical image fusion techniques combine medical images from various modalities to enhance the accuracy and reliability of medical diagnoses, and they are becoming increasingly significant in a variety of clinical applications. A novel CNN-based MRI and PET image fusion in the NSST domain is proposed in this research. The PET image is first converted to YUV color space. Then, the MRI and the Y component of the PET are fed to CNN to produce a weight map. The obtained weight map and the MRI and Y component of PET are decomposed using NSST. The decomposed bands are then merged based on local similarity-based fusion criteria. By applying inverse NSST, the fused image is produced. The original U and V components are combined with the fused image to get the result. The objective analysis and visual quality assessment proved that the results obtained are superior to those obtained by conventional fusion algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In situ neutron diffraction measurements were completed during tensile and compressive deformation of stainless steel 304L additively manufactured (AM) using a high power directed energy deposition process. Traditionally produced wrought 304L material was also studied for comparison. The AM material exhibited roughly 200 MPa higher flow stress relative to the wrought material. Crystallite size, crystallographic texture, dislocation density, and lattice strains were all characterized to understand the differences in the macroscopic mechanical behavior. The AM material's initial dislocation density was about 10 times that of the wrought material, and the flow strength of both materials obeyed the Taylor equation, indicating that the AM material's increased yield strength was primarily due to greater dislocation density. Also, a ~50 MPa flow strength tension/compression asymmetry was observed in the AM material, and several potential causes were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An allergic reaction following a dental procedure is a rare event. A local anaesthetic (LA) may initially be suspected as a causative agent but allergy to dental LA solutions is extremely rare. Case report: This report concerns a 13 year old child who underwent dental treatment and was exposed to Lignospan Special LA, mouthwash, latex gloves, ibuprofen medication, and a Magnum (almond) ice cream all within 45 min. He subsequently developed acute symptoms of nasal rhinorrhoea, facial flushing, peri-orbital and lip angioedema, followed by throat tightness and wheeze (respiratory compromise). His acute reaction was treated by his medical practitioner with oral anti-histamines, steroid and nebulised salbutamol. The child was referred to a local allergist. The child underwent detailed allergic investigations including skin prick tests, blood tests, incremental local anaesthetic challenge and ibuprofen challenge. The patient was diagnosed with NSAID exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD), a hypersensitivity reaction to ibuprofen. Follow-up: The patient was advised to avoid NSAIDs and to wear a medic-alert (allergy) bracelet. A detailed written report was sent to the patient's dentist and GP. Conclusions: In the context of a suspected reaction post dental procedure, local anaesthetic should be considered a possible allergen but other important considerations include analgesics, antibiotics, and latex. All genuine allergic reactions need to be investigated. This report highlights NERD as a possible adverse outcome following dental treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Six stable QTL for resistance against L. maculans (phoma stem canker) have been identified by QTL × environment interaction analysis using data from five winter oilseed rape field experiments. Abstract: Phoma stem canker, caused by Leptosphaeria maculans, is a disease of worldwide importance on oilseed rape ( Brassica napus). Quantitative trait loci (QTL)-mediated resistance against L. maculans in B. napus is considered to be race non-specific and potentially durable. Identification and evaluation of QTL for resistance to L. maculans is important for breeding oilseed rape cultivars with durable resistance. An oilseed rape mapping population was used to detect QTL for resistance against L. maculans in five winter oilseed rape field experiments under different environments. A total of 17 QTL involved in 'field' quantitative resistance against L. maculans were detected and collectively explained 51 % of the phenotypic variation. The number of QTL detected in each experiment ranged from two to nine and individual QTL explained 2-25 % of the phenotypic variation. QTL × environment interaction analysis suggested that six of these QTL were less sensitive to environmental factors, so they were considered to be stable QTL. Markers linked to these stable QTL will be valuable for selection to breed for effective resistance against L. maculans in different environments, which will contribute to sustainable management of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second branchial arch cysts are a common cause of cystic neck mass in adults. The type-IV variant of the second branchial arch cyst is uncommon and presents as a parapharyngeal space mass. It lies medial to the carotid sheath and it is not easily amenable to access by the traditional, trans-cervical approach to the parapharyngeal space. Trans-oral robotic surgery is a new application of the da Vinci robotic surgical system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). The system has only recently been approved by the FDA for trans-oral robotic resection of oropharyngeal cancers. The technology has since been used for new trans-oral applications, including resection of parapharyngeal space tumours. This is a case report of successful trans-oral robotic resection of a type IV second branchial arch cyst in the parapharyngeal space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a simple diagnostic for the investigation of uncertainty within genetic linkage maps using a Bayesian procedure. The method requires only the genotyping data and the proposed genetic map, and calculates the posterior probability for the possible orders of any set of three markers, accounting for the presence of genotyping error (mistyping) and for missing genotype data. The method uses a Bayesian approach to give insight into conflicts between the order in the proposed map and the genotype scores. The method can also be used to assess the accuracy of a genetic map at different genomic scales and to assess alternative potential marker orders. Simulation and two case studies were used to illustrate the method. In the first case study, the diagnostic revealed conflicts in map ordering for short inter-marker distances that were resolved at a distance of 8-12 cM, except for a set of markers at the end of the linkage group. In the second case study, the ordering did not resolve as distances increase, which could be attributed to regions of the map where many individuals were untyped. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-point OH time-series measurements using a high-speed, laser-induced fluorescence system have been performed in a turbulent nonpremixed jet flame to obtain both radial and axial space–time correlations. Turbulent OH structures in such flames are found to undergo convection both axially and radially, but OH convection does not satisfy the ‘frozen-turbulence’ hypothesis owing to various turbulent interactions and chemical reactions. While axial OH convection occurs at approximately the local mean bulk velocity, radial convection is largely compromised by strong turbulent mixing along the same direction. The hydroxyl integral length scale can be interpreted as the typical dimension of a convective OH structure, which is axially elongated and becomes more isotropic in the post-flame region. The hydroxyl integral time scale can be interpreted as approximately the ratio of an axial integral length scale to a corresponding local mean flow velocity. In general, macroscale fluctuations of OH are dominated by large-scale turbulence, with little contribution from small-scale turbulence and OH chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Obesity is associated with increased prevalence and incidence of asthma, but the mechanism is unknown. Obesity reduces lung volumes, which can increase airway responsiveness, and increases resistive and elastic work of breathing, which can increase dyspnea.Objective:To determine if the intensity of dyspnea due to airway narrowing or if airway responsiveness is increased in obese, non-asthmatic subjects.Subjects:Twenty-three obese (BMI (body mass index) 30 kg m−2) and 26 non-obese (BMI <30 kg m−2) non-asthmatic subjects, aged between 18 and 70 years.Methods:High-dose methacholine challenge was used to determine the sensitivity and the maximal response to methacholine. Respiratory system resistance (Rrs) and reactance were measured, using the forced oscillation technique, as indicators of resistive and elastic loads during challenge. Perception of dyspnea was measured by the Borg score during challenge. Static lung volumes were measured by body plethysmography.Results:Static lung volumes were reduced in the obese subjects. There were no significant differences in the sensitivity or maximal response to methacholine between obese and non-obese subjects. The magnitude of change in Rrs was similar in both groups, but obese subjects had more negative reactance after challenge (P=0.002) indicating a greater elastic load. The intensity of dyspnea was greater in obese subjects (P=0.03).Conclusions:Obesity reduces lung volumes, but does not alter the sensitivity or maximal response to methacholine. However, obese subjects have enhanced perception of dyspnea, associated with greater apparent stiffness of the respiratory system, and may therefore be at greater risk of symptoms.International Journal of Obesity (2008) 32, 502–509; doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0803752; published online 23 October 2007; [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high repetition-rate, two-point, time-resolved, laser-induced fluorescence technique is used to perform simultaneous two-point OH time-series measurements in a series of turbulent opposed-jet partially premixed flames with varying fuel-side equivalence ratio and bulk Reynolds number. Time scales of OH in these flames have previously been reported; however, the extension to two-point detection permits measurements of new spatial and temporal statistics previously unavailable in such flames. In particular, the simultaneous OH time series are used here to compute spatial and temporal autocorrelation functions. Filtered OH length scales (lr,OH), corresponding to radial OH fluctuations in turbulent stagnation flames, are obtained from the spatial autocorrelation function, including their variation across the stagnation plane. In general, maximum OH fluctuations occur at the stagnation plane, thus minimizing the OH integral length scale at the axial location of peak OH. For all flames of this study, trends in OH length scale follow those of axial time scale (τI,OH). For flames with constant Re, lr,OH decreases with less partial premixing. However, this change in integral length scale appears to be more significant for flames at lower Re in comparison to those at higher Re. Similar to OH integral time scales, for flames with the same fuel composition, lr,OH decreases with increasing Re. Moreover, fuel-lean mixtures appear to be more sensitive to Re variations as compared to fuel-rich mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversity in the chloroplast genome of 171 accessions representing the Brassica ‘C’ ( n = 9) genome, including domesticated and wild B. oleracea and nine inter-fertile related wild species, was investigated using six chloroplast SSR (microsatellite) markers. The lack of diversity detected among 105 cultivated and wild accessions of B. oleracea contrasted starkly with that found within its wild relatives. The vast majority of B. oleracea accessions shared a single haplotype, whereas as many as six haplotypes were detected in two wild species, B. villosa Biv. and B. cretica Lam.. The SSRs proved to be highly polymorphic across haplotypes, with calculated genetic diversity values ( H) of 0.23–0.87. In total, 23 different haplotypes were detected in C genome species, with an additional five haplotypes detected in B. rapa L. (A genome n = 10) and another in B. nigra L. (B genome, n = 8). The low chloroplast diversity of B. oleracea is not suggestive of multiple domestication events. The predominant B. oleracea haplotype was also common in B. incana Ten. and present in low frequencies in B. villosa, B. macrocarpa Guss, B. rupestris Raf. and B. cretica. The chloroplast SSRs reveal a wealth of diversity within wild Brassica species that will facilitate further evolutionary and phylogeographic studies of this important crop genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under-resolved passive-scalar measurements in liquid and gaseous shear layers have been known to over-predict mixed-fluid quantities as a result of sub-resolution stirring. In recent studies, simultaneous cold-chemistry (nitric oxide) and passive-scalar (acetone) planar laser-induced fluorescence have been employed for the measurement of sub-resolution molecular mixing. In the current work, the theory and experimental approach of this technique are reviewed, and new analyses of quenching corrections, differential diffusion errors, and imaging resolution are presented. Results from both experimental work and direct numerical simulations indicate that this technique provides a successful means of quantifying macro- and micro-scale turbulent molecular mixing in gaseous shear flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A segregating population of F1-derived doubled haploid (DH) lines of Brassica oleracea was used to detect and locate QTLs controlling 27 morphological and developmental traits, including leaf, flowering, axillary bud and stem characters. The population resulted from a cross between two very different B. oleracea crop types, an annual cauliflower and a biennial Brussels sprout. A principal component analysis (PCA), based on line means, allowed all the traits to be grouped into distinct categories according to the first five Principal Components. These were: leaf traits (PC1), flowering traits (PC2), axillary bud traits (PC3 and 5) and stem traits (PC4). Between zero and four putative QTL were located per trait, which individually explained between 6% and 43% of the additive genetic variation, using the multiple-marker regression approach to QTL mapping. For lamina width, bare petiole length and stem length two QTL with opposite effects were detected on the same linkage groups. Intra- and inter-specific comparative mapping using RFLP markers identified a QTL on linkage group O8 accounting for variation in vernalisation, which is probably synonymous with a QTL detected on linkage group N19 of Brassica napus. In addition, a QTL for petiole length detected on O3 of this study appeared to be homologous to a QTL detected on another B. oleracea genetic map (Camargo et al. 1995). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cnr (Colourless non-ripening) is a dominant pleiotropic ripening mutation of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) which has previously been mapped to the proximal region of tomato chromosome 2. We describe the fine mapping of the Cnr locus using both linkage analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP)-, amplified restriction fragment polymorphism (AFLP)-, and cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS)-based markers, linked to the Cnr locus were mapped onto the long arm of chromosome 2. Detailed linkage analysis indicated that the Cnr locus was likely to lie further away from the top of the long arm than previously thought. This was confirmed by FISH, which was applied to tomato pachytene chromosomes in order to gain an insight into the organisation of hetero- and euchromatin and its relationship to the physical and genetic distances in the Cnr region. Three molecular markers linked to Cnr were unambiguously located by FISH to the long arm of chromosome 2 using individual BAC probes containing these single-copy sequences. The physical order of the markers coincided with that established by genetic analysis. The two AFLP markers most-closely linked to the Cnr locus were located in the euchromatic region 2.7-cM apart. The physical distance between these markers was measured on the pachytene spreads and estimated to be approximately 900 kb, suggesting a bp:cM relationship in this region of chromosome 2 of about 330 kb/cM. This is less than half the average value of 750 kb/cM for the tomato genome. The relationship between genetic and physical distances on chromosome 2 is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes the linkages across the sediment and water interface (SWI) between biodiversity and community stability. Consideration of direct disturbance to communities on one side of the SWI; Practices of overfishing, habitat destruction, and species invasions; Relationship between benthic and pelagic diversity; Connection connection between the domains of polar and shallow coastal waters.

Different attributes of fruit flesh texture contribute to consumer preference for eating quality in apple. We extended previous studies in order to determine whether a range of mechanical measures could resolve further the genetic contribution to variation in the physical attributes of apple fruit flesh. In particular we were interested in accounting for variation of the sensory traits crispness and juiciness. A quantitative genetic analysis of mechanical measures derived from compression and wedge fracture tests was carried out. This was based on segregation in an unselected mapping population which had previously been used to identify QTLs associated with penetrometer readings, stiffness by acoustic resonance, and a range of sensory descriptors. For wedge fracture tests significant QTLs were detected on L16 and L01. Those on L16 corresponded with positions previously determined for sensory measures of crispness and juiciness. Distance at maximum force was accounted for by a single QTL on L16 and correlated well with crispness and juiciness, suggesting that it may be appropriate for the selection of genotypes with fruit posessing desirable texture attributes. We established that the association of the sensory texture QTL on L16 is unlikely to be due to perceptual interactions with the Ma acidity locus. For compression measures, QTLs were detected on L01, L06, L08 and L15. Specific gravity is well-correlated with compression stiffness modulus, and both have a significant QTL on L06. Measures of cell size and shape determined across the population failed to detect any significant QTLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To assess the interaction between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and occupational activity (OA) on the prevalence of obesity. DESIGN: Secondary data analysis of a population based cross-sectional US national sample (NHANES III). SUBJECTS: A total of 4889 disease-free, currently employed adults over age 20 y. MEASUREMENTS: Subjects body mass index (BMI) was categorized as (1) obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²), or (2) non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m²). LTPA was divided into four categories: (1) no LTPA; (2) irregular LTPA; (3) regular moderate intensity LTPA; and (4) regular vigorous intensity LTPA. OA was grouped as (1) high OA and (2) low OA. Age, gender, race-ethnicity, smoking status, urbanization classification, alcohol consumption and income were statistically controlled. RESULTS: In all, 16.8% (s.e. 0.7) of the total subject population were obese (15.1% (s.e. 1.1) of men and 19.1% (s.e. 1.1) of women). Logistic regression revealed that compared to those who engage in no LTPA and have low levels of OA, the likelihood of being obese is 42% (95% CI 0.35, 0.96) lower for those who engage in no LTPA and have high OA, 48% (95% CI 0.32, 0.83) lower for those who have irregular LTPA and have high levels of OA, and about 50% lower for all those who have regular LTPA through moderate or vigorous activity levels regardless of OA level. CONCLUSION: When considering disease free adults above 20 y of age employed in high and low activity occupations, a high level of occupational activity is associated with a decreased likelihood of being obese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several cloned disease resistance genes from a wide range of plant species are known to share conserved regions with similar structural motifs. Degenerate primers based on conserved sequences of the nucleotide binding site of the genes RPS2, N and L6 were used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification from genomic DNA of two doubled haploid lines of Brassica oleracea. Sequences of amplified products were highly variable, but most of them showed similarity to known disease resistance genes, including RPS5, RPS2 and N, and to disease resistance gene-like sequences (RGLs) from different species. Primers based on B. oleracea sequences amplified five groups of RGLs. Products were mapped through cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence assays onto four different linkage groups of B. oleracea. PCR amplification from cDNA and allele analysis indicated that four locus-specific RGL fragments are expressed in cauliflower. Screening of a B. oleracea bacterial artificial chromosome library (BAC) with four B. oleracea RGL probes identified a small number of clones, suggesting that the four RGLs may not be highly copied. Screening of a BAC library of A. thaliana with the same probes identified clones that mapped onto four different chromosomes. These map positions correspond to known disease resistance loci of A. thaliana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the portrayal of the life of novelist Marquis de Sade in the motion picture 'Quills,' directed by Philip Kaufman. Censorship of de Sade's works; Neurotic effects of persistent repression of desire; Sade's reaction to the symbol of crucifix in his final moments.

A total of 27 piles were installed at the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council soft clay test site at Bothkennar, Scotland using the continuous-flight-auger boring technique. Twelve of the piles of different lengths and diameters were tested in axial compression, using the others as reaction piles. Various testing programmes were employed to investigate relationships between axial load, movement and rate of movement. Strain measurements were facilitated by installing exten"someters in the piles, thus enabling the distributions of load and shaft resistance down each pile to be evaluated. Shaft resistances were found to be approximately constant even though the clay is known to increase in strength with depth. Peak shaft resistances were found to be dependent on rate of movement while ultimate shaft resistances were dependent only on magnitude of movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Texture is a major component of consumer preference for eating-quality in apple. A quantitative genetic analysis of traits associated with fruit-flesh firmness was carried out. This was based on segregation in an unselected mapping population replicated at six sites and harvested over 2 years. Different methods of assessment were compared, and a principal components analysis carried out. Instrumental measures used were Magness-Taylor penetrometer readings, stiffness by acoustic resonance, and a range of sensory descriptors assessed by a trained panel. There were good correlations between some measures, although stiffness was poorly correlated. Whilst genotype by environment effects were large, significant effects were attributable to the genotype, and these were used to detect QTLs. Significant QTLs were detected on seven linkage groups, with large effects on linkage groups L01, L10 and L16. Whilst there was a poor correlation between acoustic stiffness and other measures, the significant and suggestive QTL detected for stiffness on linkage group L10 did represent a subset of significant QTLs detected for the penetrometer measure. The use of sensory assessment proved valuable in detecting QTLs representing different attributes of fruit texture. The possibility of interaction between significant QTLs for fruit texture and other strongly selected traits such as scab resistance and fruit acidity is addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We have previously reported that continuous cocaine administration functionally down regulates 5-HT[sub 3] receptors in the nucleus accumbens. The current experiments evaluated the duration of behavioral tolerance to cocaine and whether the duration of behavioral tolerance and 5-HT[sub 3] receptor down-regulation covaried. Rats were withdrawn from a pretreatment regimen (40 mg/kg/per day cocaine or 0.9% saline for 14 days) for 1, 7 or 14 days. The rats were either sacrificed, and slices from the nucleus accumbens obtained, or were exposed to behavioral rating procedures. The results indicated that continuous cocaine administration significantly attenuated the ability of mCPBG to facilitate K[sup +]-stimulated DA release on days 1 and 7, but not day 14, of withdrawal. Furthermore, continuous cocaine administration induced behavioral tolerance to a cocaine challenge on days 1 and 7, but not day 14, of withdrawal. These results suggest that continuous cocaine administration functionally down-regulates 5-HT[sub 3] receptors in the nucleus accumbens, and this functional down-regulation co-varies with the behavioral tolerance induced by continuous cocaine administration. Hence, a functional down-regulation of accumbens 5-HT[sub 3] receptors may represent a partial mechanism for the tolerance following continuous cocaine administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A chromosomal region originating from Malus floribunda 821 confers Vf scab resistance to many isolates of Venturia inaequalis. Twelve DNA markers located in this region were used to scan the equivalent of 31 cM in 98 Malus accessions. This allowed a molecular diagnosis of a source of resistance in apple germplasm with the aid of pedigree information, and in the context of a limited marker survey representing other chromosomes. At least five marker alleles were present in all scab-resistant breeding selections or varieties arising from M. floribunda. The validity of findings based on RAPD markers was confirmed with SCAR assays and Southern-hybridisation experiments. The order of markers determined in previous mapping studies was confirmed and sets of recombinants identified that establish reliable fine-mapping orders within 0.7 cM of the resistance locus. None of the marker alleles were present in the accessions that are either susceptible or possess weak polygenic resistance to scab. The presence of some alleles corresponding to those present at least 5.3 cM from Vf in M. floribunda was detected in some accessions. Other major sources of scab resistance do not appear to possess alleles in common with the Vf region, which will simplify future allelism tests. The results are discussed in the context of the introgression of resistance loci together with marker-assisted selection. The use of breeding pedigrees to assist in fine-scale mapping and map-based cloning is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demonstrates that large localized uplift in extensional regions can be modelled by planar, high-angle normal faulting of an elastic upper crust overlying an inviscid lower crust. The model; Field examples of finite structures.

Abstract The present experiment evaluated the ability of the 5-HT3 antagonist, ondansetron, administered during withdrawal from chronic cocaine administration, to block the expression of sensitization and tolerance induced by the intermittent or continuous administration of cocaine, respectively. Rats were pretreated with 40 mg/kg/per day cocaine for 14 days by either SC injections or osmotic minipumps, or 0.9% saline, administered via osmotic minipump. During the first 5 days of withdrawal from this pretreatment regimen, all rats received a daily SC injection of 0-1.0mg/kg ondansetron. On day seven of withdrawal from the cocaine pretreatment (2 days after the final ondansetron injection) all subjects received a 15.0 mg/kg IP cocaine challenge. Their behavior was then rated according to the Ellinwood and Balster (1974) scale for 60 min. The results indicated that daily injections of ondansetron, on days 1-5 of withdrawal from the pretreatment regimen, had no significant effect on the subsequent behavioral response to cocaine in the saline control subjects. In contrast, daily injections of ondansetron, on days 1-5 of withdrawal from intermittent cocaine administration, significantly blocked the expression of sensitization. In the continuous cocaine group, ondansetron injections, on days 1-5 of withdrawal from continuous cocaine administration, also blocked the expression of behavioral tolerance. The results therefore indicate that changes in 5-HT[sub 3] receptor function are associated with the expression of tolerance and sensitization, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present experiment examined changes in the ability of the selective 5-HT[sub 3] receptor agonist, 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-biguanide (mCPBG), to facilitate K[sup +]-induced dopamine (DA) release during withdrawal from continuous cocaine administration. Rats were withdrawn from continuous cocaine administration (40 mg/kg per day cocaine for 14 days) for 7 days, and then slices from the nucleus accumbens obtained. Following an equilibration period, the slices were perfused with 0, 12.5, 25, or 50 micro M mCPBG in the absence and presence of 25 mM K[sup +]. The samples were assayed for DA content by HPLC with electrochemical detection. Continuous cocaine administration significantly attenuated the ability of mCPBG to facilitate K[sup +]induced DA overflow compared to saline control rats. These results suggest that continuous cocaine administration functionally down-regulates 5-HT[sub 3] receptors in the nucleus accumbens. These results further suggest that 5-HT[sub 3] receptor subsensitivity may represent a partial mechanism for the tolerance induced by continuous cocaine administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present experiment evaluated the ability of the 5-HT[sub 3] antagonist, ondansetron, administered during chronic cocaine administration, to block the development of sensitization and tolerance induced by the intermittent or continuous administration of cocaine, respectively. Rats were pretreated with 40 mg/kg per day cocaine for 14 days by either SC injections or osmotic minipumps, or 0.9% saline, administered by SC injection. During this chronic (cocaine) treatment, all rats received a daily SC injection of 0-1.0 mg/kg ondansetron. The rats were then withdrawn from the pretreatment regimen for 7 days. On day 7 of withdrawal from the cocaine pretreatment all subjects received a 15.0 mg/kg IP cocaine challenge, and their behavior was then rated according to the modified Ellinwood and Balster scale for 60 min. The results indicated that daily injections of ondansetron had no consistent or significant effect on the subsequent behavioral response to cocaine in the saline control subjects. In contrast, daily injections of ondansetron with cocaine significantly blocked the development of sensitization with an inverted U-shape dose-response curve. In the continuous cocaine group ondansetron injections also attenuated the development of behavioral tolerance. The results therefore indicate that 5-HT[sub 3] receptor stimulation during continuous and intermittent cocaine administration is an important link in the development of behavioral tolerance and sensitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) by using two preparations of haematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) that demonstrated different biological activities against experimental murine fibrosarcoma RIF-1 in C3H/He mice. We have been able to demonstrate a minimum clonogenic survival rate of 0.25% by using the more active HPD at 20 mg/kg with a 40-h retention time and a total laser light dose of 100 J/cm. Further, we noted that clonogenic survival rates of 21.6% and 25.0% respectively could be achieved by using the less active HPD (at 20 mg/kg) with a laser light dose of 150 J/cm, or the more active HPD (at 20 mg/kg) with a laser light dose of 20 J/cm. In both cases necrosis of the surrounding normal tissue was absent. Necrosis of the normal tissue surrounding the tumour was shown to be associated with high laser energy (100 J/cm and higher) in conjunction with a high dose (20 mg/kg) of the more active HPD. A comparison of survival curves as a function of laser energy for the RIF-1 cells following PDT with the two different preparations of HPD showed a difference in the kinetics of cell death. A curve with a shoulder region and a D (mean lethal dose) of 41 J/cm was obtained when the less active HPD was used, whereas PDT using the more active HPD resulted in a curve with no shoulder and a D of 16 J/cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species of Briza L. s. l. are disjunctly distributed between Eurasia and South America. A taxometric analysis has been carried out, using data from electrophoresis of seed polypeptides and published morphological characters. Evidence from a cluster analysis of seed polypeptide data strongly supports the recognition of two different natural groups, a S. American group and a Eurasian group, and is consistent with karyotype data, but does not support the generic groupings of South American taxa derived from the morphological data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly variable family of related DNA sequences was examined in order to determine the effect of local sequence environment on substitution mutation; 29 sequences from the Brassica self-incompatibility gene family, which possess a high level of nonsynonymous mutations, were aligned and grouped according to their similarity and function. The level and distribution of substitution mutations were calculated. A nonrandom distribution of sequence variation was observed along the sequences. The effect of neighbor biases and structural and thermodynamic measures were then compared in the absence of strong codon conservation. Biases were observed in the rates of substitution of the same base pair in different local sequence environments. The effect of the 5′ neighbor was such that nucleotide A or C was associated with more mutations than G or T. There were significant interactions of certain dinucleotides with the frequency of mutation. Sequence-dependent measures of helical stability, intrinsic curvature, components of curvature, and stacking interactions were calculated for each sequence. Decreased helical stability was found to be associated with increased mutation. The compound measure of curvature, calculated according to the 'wedge' model, showed little association with mutation. However, the components of increased wedge angle and decreased twist both showed an association with increased mutation. A small effect of A-type DNA stacking was found to be associated with mutated bases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of insect cell suspension culture techniques for the production of insect pathogenic viruses and recombinant proteins has been reviewed, with an emphasis on process scale-up and reactor design considerations. The problems of culture media cost and insect cell shear sensitivity have also been addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of an external loop air-lift bioreactor was investigated by assessing the inter-relationships between various hydrodynamic properties and mass transfer. The feasibility of using this bioreactor for the production of monoclonal antibodies by mouse hybridoma cells immobilized in calcium alginate gel beads and alginate/poly- l-lysine microcapsules was also examined. When the superficial gas velocity, V, in the 300 ml reactor was varied from 2 to 36 cm/min, the average liquid velocity increased from 3 to 14 cm/sec, the gas hold-up rose from 0.2 to 3.0%, and the oxygen mass transfer coefficient, k a, increased from 2.5 to 18.1 h. A minimum liquid velocity of 4 cm/s was required to maintain alginate gel beads (1000 μm diameter, occupying 3% of reactor volume) in suspension. Batch culture of hybridoma cells immobilized in alginate beads followed logarithmic growth, reaching a concentration of 4×10 cells/ml beads after 11 days. Significant antibody production did not occur until day 9 into the culture, reaching a value of 100 μg/ml of medium at day 11. On the other hand, bioreactor studies with encapsulated hybridoma cells gave monoclonal antibody concentrations of up to 800 μg/ml capsules (the antibody being retained within the semipermeable capsule) and maximum cell densities of 2×10 cells/ml capsule at day 11. The volumetric productivities of the alginate gel immobilized cell system and the encapsulated cell system were 9 and 3 μg antibody per ml of reactor volume per day, respectively. The main advantage of the bioreactor system is its simple design, since no mechanical input is required to vary the hydrodynamic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Threshold single photon double ionisation of the rare gases neon, argon, krypton and xenon has been studied in an electron-electron coincidence experiment. A new technique has been used where only near-zero energy electrons are detected and these are measured in coincidence. The spectrometer used here employs the penetrating field technique which provides very high detection efficiency, sensitivity and energy resolution. Relative partial double ionisation cross sections have been measured at threshold for the n p(P,D andS) states of Ne, Ar, Kr and Xe and the n s n p (P andP) states of Ne, Ar and Kr. The observed relative cross sections are in general agreement with a propensity rule for excitation of these states, except for the case of neon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hairy roots of Brassica napus (rape cv. Giant) have been produced that contain the cytosolic glutamine synthetase (GS) gene from Glycine max (soybean). Leaf explants were cocultivated with Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain A4T harbouring the binary vector pLN16. This vector was constructed by inserting a soybean cytosolic GS cDNA into the multiple cloning site of pGA643, placing it under the control of the CaMV promoter. In addition, the T-DNA region of pLN16 contained a NPTII gene for selection of transformed cells. Transgenic hairy roots grew prolifically on hormone-free media containing a selective level of kanamycin. Southern and northern analyses confirmed the presence of soybean GS DNA and transcripts, respectively. These transformed hairy roots also have a greater abundance of the GS polypeptide, approximately 3-6 fold greater GS activity and lower levels of endogenous ammonia. Hairy roots provide a useful system for studying responses to phosphinothricin (PPT). Hairy roots grown in media containing PPT had lower GS activity, greater ammonia accumulation and slower growth than controls. The presence of the soybean GS gene in the hairy roots reduced these PPT-induced effects and resulted in higher GS activity, lower ammonia levels and faster growth than in PPT-treated controls. Greater tolerance of PPT was also seen in shoots regenerated from the hairy roots displaying elevated levels of GS activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycemia is the major causal factor in the development of diabetic vascular complications and can mediate their adverse effects through multiple pathways. One of those mechanisms is the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by hyperglycemia-induced increases in diacylglycerol (DAG) level, partly due to de novo synthesis. The activation of PKC regulates various vascular functions by modulating enzymatic activities such as cytosolic phospholipase A2 and Na+,K+-ATPase, and gene expressions including extracellular matrix components and contractile proteins. Some of the resulting vascular abnormalities include changes in retinal and renal blood flow, contractility, permeability, proliferation, and basement membrane. Among the various isoforms of PKC predominantly the β isoforms are activated in cultured vascular cells exposed to high glucose and vascular tissues isolated from animal models of diabetes mellitus. Administration of vitamin E, which decreases DAG level possibly through the activation of DAG kinase, prevents hemodynamic changes in retina and renal glomeruli of diabetic rats. In addition, the inhibition of PKC β isoforms by a specific inhibitor (LY333531) can normalize the changes in gene expression of cytokines, caldesmon, and hemodynamics. These results provide supportive evidence that the activation of PKC, especially the β isoforms, is involved in the development of diabetic vascular complications, and that PKCβ inhibitors can be used in the treatment of diabetic vascular complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily, intermittent, subcutaneous cocaine injections produce sensitization, while the continuous administration of cocaine produces tolerance to the behavioral effects of subsequent cocaine injections. The present experiments examined whether these behavioral differences are related to differences in the ability of cocaine to increase extracellular dopamine. Increases in perfusate DA, in response to different concentrations of cocaine, were measured in caudate-putamen slices obtained from rats withdrawn for 7 days from a 14-day treatment of either continuous or daily subcutaneous cocaine injections. Compared to saline controls, cocaine-induced DA efflux was increased in subjects receiving daily injections and markedly decreased in subjects receiving continuous cocaine. Thus, different temporal patterns of cocaine administration produce dramatically different alterations in DA neurotransmission. Such changes in dopamine release may be related to the withdrawal symptoms experienced by human cocaine abusers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

d-Amphetamine is effective in controlling seizures in petit mal epilepsy. The flash-evoked afterdischarge (FEAD) in rats has been proposed as a model of the petit mal seizure. The experiments reported here investigated the dose response relationship for the suppression of FEAD by d-amphetamine, and compared its effects with those of the dopamine-mimetic, apomorphine. Significant suppression of FEAD was observed at doses of d-amphetamine greater than 0.2 mg/kg. A maximum decrease of 60% occurred at 1.2 mg/kg. Higher doses did not result in any further suppression. In contrast, apomorphine had no effect on the FEAD event at doses that induced intense stereotypic behavior. In other experiments, administration of either the dopamine antagonist pimozide or the α-adrenergic antagonist phenoxybenzamine exacerbated FEAD and also prevented the suppression of FEAD by d-amphetamine. The results of these experiments support the hypothesis that the FEAD is a valid model of the petit mal seizure. Furthermore, they provide evidence that norepinephrine is necessary for the seizuresuppressant action of d-amphetamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A molecular technique for the identification of S-alleles involved in self-incompatibility has been used to analyse the S-allele reference collection of Brassica oleracea. The reference collection contains nearly 50 different lines each with a different S-allele present in the homozygous state. The technique consists of amplifying by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) sequences belonging to the S multigene sequence family using a single pair of conserved primers. PCR products are then analysed further by digestion with six restriction enzymes followed by gel electrophoresis of the digestion products. A simple method of estimating the band sizes of the digestion products is described. The S-locus-related sequences can be distinguished from S-locus glycoprotein and S-receptor kinase genes by the restriction patterns. Furthermore, with any one restriction enzyme, several alleles showed the same restriction pattern. Alleles could therefore be grouped together. With two exceptions, each member of the S-allele reference collection showed a unique set of restriction patterns. Investigation of the exceptions using pollen tube growth tests showed that these accessions represented duplications within the collection. This technique therefore provides a simple and useful method for identifying different S-alleles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a technique for the identification of S alleles involved in self-incompatibility in Brassica oleracea which is based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of genomic DNA followed by restriction analysis is described. Primers homologous to conserved regions near to the 5′ and 3′ ends of the S coding sequence were used to amplify a number of members of the S multigene family. However, by designing a selective primer and using a higher temperature for annealing in the PCR, we were able to amplify certain members from the multigene family preferentially. These were considered to be the S-locus glycoprotein genes (SLG), since the patterns of restriction bands of the PCR products were shown to correspond to those of the SLG where sequence data were available. DNA samples from plants with certain S alleles were found not to amplify efficiently using the 'selective' primers and high annealing temperature. This property, however, could be used as a means of distinguishing plants homozygous for these S alleles, as was demonstrated by an examination of a small F population that was segregating for the S5 and S29 alleles. In the investigation of the F population, it was found that preferential amplification of one of the alleles of the heterozygotes occurred when the 'consensus' primers were used in the PCR. However, by using different primers, homologous to another region of the S sequence, we were able to amplify both alleles of the heterozygotes equally. The genotypes of the plants were determined by restriction analysis of PCR products and agreed with results based on pollen-tube growth tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of epithelial-mesenchymal interactions in the stimulation of lung development by estrogen is now investigated using organ cultures of lung from male and female fetal rats taken from Days 17 to 21 of gestation. Estradiol at 1 μg/ml was found to reduce cell proliferation in explants taken during a rapid growth phase (Day 18) and to stimulate surfactant synthesis in both males and females only in Day 20 explants when cell division is much slower. At this time more epithelial cells from estrogen-treated explants contained lamellar bodies, which were also secreted to fill the air sacs. These cultures also showed a significant increase in the frequency of cell-to-cell contacts between epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Uptake of tritiated estradiol by explants increased from Day 18 onward, and by autoradiography, labeling was located predominantly over fibroblasts. Using pure cultures of fetal and adult cells, uptake of labeled estradiol was significantly higher in fibroblasts than in corresponding epithelial cells, and estradiol did not directly enhance palmitate incorporation into epithelial cells. The results suggest that the earlier maturation and increased surfactant synthesis in female fetal lung is related at least in part to enhanced binding of estrogen by the fibroblast with subsequent transfer of a maturation factor to the fetal epithelium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of various extracellular matrices and collagenous components on the morphology, growth, and function of cultured alveolar type 2 cells is examined. Cells grown on an endothelial matrix (EC) showed the greatest adherence, some cell division, and spreading to reach confluence sooner than cells grown on an epithelial matrix or on various types of collagen. The attenuated cells from all cultures were not true type 1 cells because, on trypsinization, they detached as sheets, reverted immediately to a cuboidal shape held together by junctional complexes, and showed an apparently normal content of lamellar bodies. The greatest synthesis of disaturated phosphatidylcholine (DSPC) was seen in cells grown on EC soon after confluence, but all cultures showed reduced but equal levels of DSPC-DNA by Day 4. This occured whether cells were attenuated or cuboidal in shape. The results suggest that some component(s) of the endothelial matrix at the alveolar basement membrane facilitates epithelial cell growth. However, over longer culture periods the matrix preparations had little effect on type 2 cell proliferation whereas function diminished. This suggests that maintenance of these cells as normal type 2 cells or their further differentiation to the type 1 form requires some additional cell derived factor(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear magnetic resonance is established as a sensitive and specific method for following the reduction of dimethylsulphoxide and trimethylamine-N-oxide by bacteria. Using this method it has been shown that cells of Rhodobacter capsulatus reduce both dimethylsulphoxide and trimethylamine-N-oxide at linear rates at all concentrations of these acceptors that can be conveniently detected during a continuous assay. The rate of reduction of trimethylamine-N-oxide was eightfold higher than the rate of dimethylsulphoxide reduction. An upper limit of approximately 0.1 mM may be placed upon the apparent K value for each acceptor, but the value for dimethylsulphoxide is deduced to be lower than that for trimethylamine-N-oxide on the basis of the strong inhibitory effect of the former on the reduction of the latter. Reduction of trimethylamine-N-oxide by Rb. capsulatus was inhibited by illumination and by oxygen, but only the former effect was relieved following dissipation of the proton electrochemical gradient across the cytoplasmic membrane. Rotenone inhibited the reduction of trimethylamine-N-oxide whereas myxothiazol did not, consistent with a pathway of electrons to the reductase from NADH dehydrogenase that does not involve the cytochrome bccomplex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple scab, caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis (Cke.) Wint., is an important disease in commercial apple production. A mapping population of 155 individuals, derived from a cross between the apple varieties ‘Prima’ (resistant)בFiesta’ (susceptible), was scored for response to the disease in replicated field and glasshouse trials throughout Europe. Twenty data sets were selected and cluster analysis was used to form a consensus score for the population fitting a 1 : 1 segregation ratio of resistance:susceptibility. The progeny were scored with molecular markers. A detailed map covering 54 cM of the ‘Prima’ linkage group containing the Vf gene for scab resistance was constructed using 24 molecular markers linked to the resistance gene. One isoenzyme marker ( Pgm-1), six RFLP markers and 17 RAPD markers formed a linkage group with the consensus measure of resistance to scab. Four marker bridges were established with the corresponding ‘Fiesta’ linkage group with additional markers (one isozyme, one RFLP, three RAPD and one AFLP). A low chi-square value indicated a good fit of the marker ordering, which was in close agreement with previously reported linkage positions for some of the markers and Vf. Differences were observed in the ability of different scoring methods to resolve susceptible and resistant classes. The results obtained for the consensus classification of resistance to scab for the population may suggest the presence of virulent inocula at some sites, which could overcome the Vf gene for resistance. The consequences of relying on individual scoring occasions for studying Vf scab resistance are discussed in the context of linkage analysis, conventional breeding selection, and marker-assisted selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sd1 is a dominant gene for resistance to biotypes 1 and 2 of the rosy leaf curling aphid, Dysaphis devecta Wlk., which can cause economic damage to apple trees. This report describes the identification of three RFLP and four RAPD markers linked to Sd1 in a cross between the D. devecta susceptible variety ‘Prima’ ( sd1 sd1) and the resistant variety ‘Fiesta’ ( Sd1 sd1). Potted trees were artificially infested in the glasshouse, and the ratio of resistant:susceptible plants supported the hypothesis that the resistance was under the control of a single dominant gene. The position of the gene was mapped to a single locus on a ‘Fiesta’ chromosome, within 2 cM of three tightly linked RFLP markers (MC064a, 2B12a and MC029b); the four RAPD markers were located further away (between 13 and 46 cM). This is the first report of molecular markers for an aphid resistance gene in tree fruit crops. The potential application of these markers in a marker-assisted resistance breeding programme is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic similarity was estimated among a sample of 28 ecotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana. Twenty-five previously mapped genomic clones were used as probes in Southern hybridizations to detect restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs). A total of 62 polymorphic restriction fragments were classified as to their presence or absence for each genotype. The genetic similarity between each pair of ecotypes was calculated as the ratio of concordant to total bands scored. The mean genetic similarity among the 28 ecotypes was 0.69 and ranged from 0.32 to near 1.0. No relationship was observed between genetic similarity and geographical origin of the 28 ecotypes. The ecotype most distantly related to the other 27 was Niederzenz, with a mean genetic similarity of 0.55 ± 13. A bootstrap procedure was used to generate 200 random samples of bands of size n ( n=8,12,16,..., 55), and the coefficient of variance (CV) was estimated for each sample. The plot of the first two principal components provided a description of the relative genetic similarity among ecotypes. The results provide information useful to investigators interested in sampling the genetic variation among Arabidopsis ecotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]