cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Some Effects of Antisera on Larvae of the Southern Armyworm, Prodenia Eridania (Cram.)

Many of the insecticides now in use apparently act as general protoplasmic poisons. Their dispersal for insect-pest control necessitates the observance of precautionary measures to avoid jeopardizing the health of man and other animals. In the search for a substitute for the general poisons, it is well to consider the possibility of utilizing immune substances which, unlike the arsenicals and fluorides, have great specificity of action. Specific antibodies for various substances can be produced in the blood of different animals when antigens are introduced into their systems. When an antigen consists of an extract of an animal tissue or organ, the antibody that it helps form may have a specific action on the kind of tissue or organ extracted, causing the latter to become abnormal (2, 5, 6, 7, 8). Disease produced in this way may be fatal. Trichinella also is reported to have been killed in vitro by antiserum (3). The question arises whether it is possible to cause abnormal or lethal changes in the tissues of an insect by the use of specific antibodies and, if so, whether antibodies might be made to serve as stomach insecticides.
Effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide, secretin, and related peptides on rat colonic transport and adenylate cyclase activity.

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), secretin, glucagon, gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP), and partial sequences of VIP and secretin were examined for their effect on colonic transport and adenylate cyclase activity. Net water flow was measured gravi- metrically in muscle-stripped, everted sacs of ascending and descending rat colon. VIP and secretin, but not glucagon or GIP, stimulated colonic secretion. The sensitivity of the colonic mucosa to VIP was high: the threshold (10–11 m ) and half-maximal dose (10–10 m ) for the effect of VIP were a 1000 times less than the threshold (10–8 m ) and half- maximal dose (10 –7 m ) for the effect of secretin. A subthreshold concentration of theophylline (2 mM) increased the submaximal responses to VIP or secretin up to but not beyond the maximal response to VIP alone (4.1 ± 0.2 μl mg-1 30 min-1). The combined effect of secretin and a maximal concentration of VIP was not additive. These results indicated that VIP and secretin shared the same receptor sites and/or intermediary mechanisms. VIP14–28 acted as a partial agonist with an efficacy of 0.2 and inhibited significantly the response to VIP. Secretin5–27 showed no secretory activity and did not inhibit the response to secretin. The lactamimide RMI 12330A (10-3 m ) abolished the secretory response to VIP and secretin but had no effect on the secretory response to 10 mM theophylline or on control absorptive flow rate. VIP and secretin, but not glucagon or GIP, stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in homogenates of colon mucosa. The lactamimide RMI 12330A (10-3 m ) inhibited basal adenylate cyclase activity as well as activity stimulated by VIP, secretin, prostaglandin E1, and 5'-guanylyl imidodiphosphate. The results obtained in colon mucosa conform to a pattern of structural and functional homology exhibited by VIP and secretin in several tissues (fat, liver, and pancreatic acinar cells) which sets them apart from glucagon and GIP. The mode of action of VIP and secretin on colonic secretion appears to involve the adenylate cyclasecyclic AMP system. The abundance of VIP in the colon of many species and the high sensitivity of transport mechanisms to VIP shown in this study raise the possibility that VIP may play a local (i.e., paracrine and/or neurocrine) role in the regulation of colonic transport.
Representing bias-network baseband characteristics when simulating intermodulation distortion

We assess the expected impact that incorrect representation of the bias network will have on simulations of intermodulation distortion by quantifying the range of impedance values of several real baseband components, including bias tees, cables, and bias supply settings. We then introduce a table-based method to incorporate these elements in circuit simulations and verify its ability to improve prediction of intermodulation distortion. With this method, we are able to predict the third-order intermodulation distortion products to within 0.25 dB in the weakly nonlinear regime for a variety of baseband components. Use of the method enables improved model parameter extraction because only the device model itself remains in question if simulation and measurement results differ.
My Story, My Identity: Doctoral Students of Color at a Research University

We are deeply concerned about the small representation of faculty of color in the academy; thus, we address the question of how and why doctoral students of color choose a particular career path. This qualitative research study, through the voices of the doctoral students of color, identifies and explains both the overt and covert obstacles encountered by graduate students of color in their consideration of academic careers. The stories of leading change efforts through the pursuit of an advanced education are stories of individual agency. At the same time, their education was not an individual effort; rather, these students of color pursued an advanced education both for themselves and for others. These results suggest specific implications for practice that focus on the unique perspectives of doctoral students of color.
Enabling Focus Cues in Head-Mounted Displays

Developing head-mounted displays (HMDs) that offer uncompromised optical pathways to both digital and physical worlds without encumbrance and discomfort confronts many grand challenges, both from technological perspectives and human factors. Among the many challenges, minimizing visual discomfort is one of the key obstacles. One of the key contributing factors to visual discomfort is the lack of the ability to render proper focus cues in HMDs to stimulate natural eye accommodation responses, which leads to the wellknown problem of vergence–accommodation conflict. This paper provides a comprehensive summary of various technical approaches toward enabling focus cues in HMDs for both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications.
Automated fiber tracking and tissue characterization of the anterior cruciate ligament with optical coherence tomography

The directionality of collagen fibers across the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) as well as the insertion of this key ligament into bone are important for understanding the mechanical integrity and functionality of this complex tissue. Quantitative analysis of three-dimensional fiber directionality is of particular interest due to the physiological, mechanical, and biological heterogeneity inherent across the ACL-to-bone junction, the behavior of the ligament under mechanical stress, and the usefulness of this information in designing tissue engineered grafts. We have developed an algorithm to characterize Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) image volumes of the ACL. We present an automated algorithm for measuring ligamentous fiber angles, and extracting attenuation and backscattering coefficients of ligament, interface, and bone regions within mature and immature bovine ACL insertion samples. Future directions include translating this algorithm for real time processing to allow three-dimensional volumetric analysis within dynamically moving samples.
MSiReader v1.0: Evolving Open-Source Mass Spectrometry Imaging Software for Targeted and Untargeted Analyses

A major update to the mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) software MSiReader is presented, offering a multitude of newly added features critical to MSI analyses. MSiReader is a free, open-source, and vendor-neutral software written in the MATLAB platform and is capable of analyzing most common MSI data formats. A standalone version of the software, which does not require a MATLAB license, is also distributed. The newly incorporated data analysis features expand the utility of MSiReader beyond simple visualization of molecular distributions. The MSiQuantification tool allows researchers to calculate absolute concentrations from quantification MSI experiments exclusively through MSiReader software, significantly reducing data analysis time. An image overlay feature allows the incorporation of complementary imaging modalities to be displayed with the MSI data. A polarity filter has also been incorporated into the data loading step, allowing the facile analysis of polarity switching experiments without the need for data parsing prior to loading the data file into MSiReader. A quality assurance feature to generate a mass measurement accuracy (MMA) heatmap for an analyte of interest has also been added to allow for the investigation of MMA across the imaging experiment. Most importantly, as new features have been added performance has not degraded, in fact it has been dramatically improved. These new tools and the improvements to the performance in MSiReader v1.0 enable the MSI community to evaluate their data in greater depth and in less time. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Past, present, and future of nitrous oxide.

Author(s): Lew, V; McKay, E; Maze, M | Abstract: IntroductionFor a drug that has been omnipresent for nearly 200 years, nitrous oxide's (N2O) future seems less certain than its illustrious past. Environmental concerns are coming to the fore and may yet outweigh important clinical benefits.Sources of dataAfter determining the scope of the review, the authors used PubMed with select phrases encompassing the words in the scope. Both preclinical and clinical reports were considered.Areas of agreementThe analgesic and anaesthetic advantages of N2O remain despite a plethora of newer agents.Areas of controversyN2O greenhouse gas effect and its inhibition of key enzymes involved in protein and DNA synthesis have provided further fuel for those intent on eliminating its further clinical use.Growing pointsThe use of N2O for treatment-resistant depression has gained traction.Areas timely for developing researchComparative studies for N2O role in combatting the prescription opioid analgesic epidemic may well provide further clinical impetus.
Using a Data-Matrix–Coded Sponge Counting System Across a Surgical Practice: Impact After 18 Months

Article-at-a-Glance Background Retained surgical items (RSIs), most commonly sponges, are infrequent. Yet despite sponge-counting standards, failure to maintain an accurate count is a common error. To improve counting performance, technology solutions have been developed. A data-matrix–coded sponge (DMS) system was evaluated and implemented in a high-volume academic surgical practice at Mayo Clinic Rochester (MCR). The primary end point was prevention of sponge RSIs after 18 months. Methods Two trials were conducted before implementation. A randomized-controlled trial assessed the system's function, efficiency, and ergonomics. The second, larger trial was conducted to validate the prior findings and test product improvements. After the trials, the system was implemented in all 128 operating/procedure rooms across the MCR campus on February 2, 2009. The institutionwide implementation was intended to avoid the possibility of having standard unmarked sponges and DMSs in the operating room suite concurrently. Results Before implementation, a retained sponge occurred on average every 64 days. Between February 2009 and July 2010, 87,404 procedures were performed, and 1,862,373 DMSs were used without an RSI (p Conclusions After 18 months, a DMS system eliminated sponge RSIs from a high-volume surgical practice. The DMS system caused no work-flow disruption or increases in case duration. Staff satisfaction was acceptable, with a high degree of trust in the system. The DMS system is a reliable and cost-effective technology that improves patient safety.
The Definiteness Effect: Semantics or Pragmatics?

In this paper I propose and defend a semantically based account of the distribution of DPs in existential there-sentences in English in opposition to the pragmatic account proposed in Zucchi (1995). The two analyses share many features, making it possible to study variation along the semantics/pragmatics dimension while holding the rest constant.
High-Resolution Structure of a β-Peptide Bundle

We recently reported that β-peptides can form discrete hetero-oligomers in aqueous solution. Here we describe the structure of such an oligomer as determined by X-ray crystallography. The structure of Zwit-1F reveals a homo-octamer of two cupped “hands” composed of both parallel and antiparallel 314-helices. The core of the assembly is composed entirely of solvent-excluded β3-homoleucine residues. The Zwit-1F assembly shares many of the physical characteristics of natural proteins.
Developing teachers' technology skills in a laptop initiative

The College of Education at the University of Hawai'i-Manoa, like many institutions, wrestles with the challenge of developing students' technology skills. Moreover, maintaining a hardware and software infrastructure that supports technology-integrated teaching is costly and difficult to maintain. Addressing both challenges, the College of Education implemented a one-to-one laptop program in 2005. By requiring continuous access to an Internet-connected laptop, the College hoped to improve student technology skills and to increase technology integration throughout its courses. The authors developed the Technology Skills Inventory to examine students' skill levels and skill development during this initiative. The Inventory consisted of 43 statements regarding students' abilities in performing tasks with a computer. The authors concluded that students who completed a teacher preparation program reported higher basic and personal/professional skills with computers, but were unable to draw conclusions about students' instructional application of technology skills.
Developing Media Literacy in Public Libraries: Learning from Community Media Centers

ABSTRACTThe rise of digital media labs and spaces for content creation in public libraries has been documented in the scholarly literature. However, fewer studies have investigated the outcomes of ...
Interference and Channel Quality Based Channel Assignment for Cognitive Radio Networks

This paper presents channel assignment for self coexistence among Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs). A set of access points (APs) using similar radio systems competing for channel resources is the self coexistence problem. The channel assignment for all the APs is proposed to be controlled by a centralized server. We propose that this central server receives the pair-wise interference indices from all the APs in their vicinity as well as the channel quality indicator values for all the channels. The channels are then assigned based on these two factors. The two factors are optimized and the optimization problem is formulated as a quadratic integer programming (QIP) problem. To avoid the NP-hard complexity of this QIP formulation, we propose a near-optimal heuristic algorithm called \(\mathbf {{MinI-MaQ}}\) (Minimum Interference and Maximum Quality based Channel Assignment) that can be obtained at a much lower computing complexity. The algorithm is developed to solve this problem with the objective to minimize co-channel interference between APs (and their nodes) and maximize the usage of best quality channels, and thus maximize system capacity. The \(\mathbf {{MinI-MaQ}}\) algorithm offers near optimal solutions for channel assignment.
On a Subclass of Solutions of the 2D Navier–Stokes Equations with Constant Energy and Enstrophy

In this paper, we are interested in studying the existence of the nonstationary solutions in the global attractor of the 2D Navier–Stokes equations with constant energy and enstrophy. We particularly focus on a subclass of these solutions that the geometric structures have a supplementary stability property which were called “chained ghost solutions” in Tian and Zhang (Indiana Univ Math J 64:1925–1958, 2015). By solving a Galerkin system of a particular form, we show the nonexistence of the chained ghost solutions for certain cases.
Evident Partiality and the Judicial Review of Investor-State Dispute Settlement Awards: An Argument for ISDS Reform

International investment law, and particularly investor state dispute settlement (ISDS) is currently the subject of many heated debates, from the fairness of bilateral investment treaties, to the lack of precedent in ISDS, to the impartiality of arbitrators. This article examines national judicial review of international investment arbitral awards in the context of U.S. domestic law, focusing on evident partiality and the appropriate standard of deference to be applied to such awards, particularly in the case where challenges to arbitrator integrity were denied at the arbitration stage. National courts are not the ideal fora for adjudicating challenges to ISDS awards, as evidenced by differing standards of deference across jurisdictions and the lack of familiarity with international treaties and international rules of arbitration. Addressing the problem at its root, namely through amending international rules of arbitration or by creating additional levels of international review would be more effective. The problem of arbitrator partiality in ISDS is reflective of systemic problems. This article argues that the issues of interpretation arising in reviewing ISDS awards before domestic courts suggest that reform of the ISDS system would be a more effective means of safeguarding party interests from arbitrator conflict of interest or corruption. This article builds on the standard of deference established by the Supreme Court in BG Group, focusing on the Argentina v. AWG Group case that was decided by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in July 2018. In reviewing the Argentina v. AWG Group case, the article highlights some of the challenges in having domestic courts review ISDS awards. At the same time, the article argues that while a high level of deference to international arbitration awards is usually desirable, the standard of review with respect to ISDS claims should be clarified by U.S. courts as deference is not always the correct standard. Where the integrity of the arbitral tribunal itself is in question, that deference should be set aside in favor of closer review. Conflicts of interest that might elsewhere be viewed as significant enough to disqualify arbitrators from participating in arbitrations are viewed as commonplace in international investment arbitration and considered an inherent part of the system. This should not be the case.
Preserving Mars Today Using Baseline Ecologies

Abstract Current calls to protect the Martian environment with “Planetary Parks” maintain environmental merit. However, they lack a sufficiently urgent timeframe for initiating protection and a robust scientific method for the establishment of noteworthy Martian natural landmarks as natural reserves. In response, if we return to the seminal environmental preservation teachings of Aldo Leopold and John Muir, we encounter the importance of grounding Martian preservation efforts on the fundamental environmental science method of a base-datum of normality, or baseline ecology. This method establishes natural reserves that feature both minimal human interference and known origination dates, thereby providing longitudinal environmental control samples for scientific use. Applied before humans appear on Mars, preserved baseline ecologies thereby aid our scientific understanding of human environmental impacts, both now and well into the future, while they enhance a variety of other outcomes in terms of Martian protection. However, the baseline ecology method requires that, through international agreements, we establish these reserves as quickly as possible and certainly before humans arrive on the planet.
Enumerating extensions of (π)-adic fields with given invariants

We give an algorithm that constructs a minimal set of polynomials defining all extensions of a (π)-adic field with given inertia degree, ramification index, discriminant, ramification polygon, and residual polynomials of the segments of the ramification polygon.
Decoding Live Cell Interactions with Multi-Nanoparticle Systems: Differential Implications for Uptake, Trafficking, and Gene Regulation.

Surface modification with oligonucleotides renders gold nanoparticles to endocytose through very different pathways as compared to unmodified ones. Such oligonucleotide-modified gold nanoparticles (OGNs) have been exploited as effective nanocarriers for gene regulation therapies. Notably, in an effort to reduce overall dosage and provide safer transition to the clinic, cooperative systems composed of two or more discrete nanomaterials have been recently proposed as an alternative to intrinsically multifunctional nanoparticles. Yet, our understanding of such systems designed to synergistically cooperate in their diagnostic or therapeutic functions remains acutely limited. Specifically, cellular interactions and uptake of OGNs are poorly understood when the cell simultaneously interacts with other types of nanoparticles. Here, we investigated the impact of simultaneous uptake of similar-sized iron oxide nanoparticles (IOPs) on the endocytosis and gene regulation function of OGNs, whose analogues have been p...
A Rare Case of Disseminated Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare Presenting as Proctitis

Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (MAI) infections are common in Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) positive patients. MAI infection can have localized or disseminated presentation, patients with low CD4 count presenting with disseminated infection. Fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss are generally the presenting symptoms of disseminated MAI. We present a rare case of a patient with HIV and low CD4 count presenting with proctitis as manifestation of disseminated MAI infection. A 25 year-old-man with HIV came to the emergency room (ER) with complaints of intermittent rectal bleeding for two months. His CD4 count was less than 20 cells/µL. He was MSM (men having sex with men) and has receptive anal intercourse with men. His stool work-up was unrevealing for infectious etiology. Swabs for gonorrhea and chlamydia were negative. Colonoscopy revealed erythematous, congested, friable rectal mucosa with two superficial ulcers. Biopsies of the ulcer were positive for acid fast staining bacteria and the culture grew MAI. His blood culture was negative for growth of acid-fast bacteria (AFB). However, liver biopsy performed for elevated alkaline phosphatase of 958 units/L revealed noncaseating granuloma. Gastro-duodenoscopy with duodenal biopsy did not reveal any mucosal abnormality. He was managed as with disseminated MAI infection using clarithromycin, ethambutol, and rifabutin in addition to HAART therapy. Interval Colonoscopy in 20 months showed resolution of rectal ulcer. The gut is often involved in patients with disseminated MAI infection, with the duodenum being the most common site. MAI infection should be suspected as possible etiology for proctitis in HIV positive patient with low CD4 count, as proctitis, though infrequent can be the sole presentation for disseminated MAI infection in patients with HIV and low CD4 count.
Dependence of growth temperature on the electrical properties and microstructure of MBE-grown AlN/GaN resonant tunneling diodes on sapphire

AlN/GaN double-barrier resonant tunnel diodes have been grown by rf-plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy at temperatures between 760 and 860 °C on metalorganic chemical vapor deposition-grown GaN templates with sapphire substrates. Room temperature negative differential resistance (NDR) was observed for all samples despite the presence of higher densities of threading dislocations in the device layers than in the MOCVD GaN template. The fraction of devices exhibiting NDR and the peak-to-valley current ratio was small for each sample (typically 1%–10% and 1.003–1.1, respectively). A clear trend of increasing peak current density with increasing growth temperature was observed.
In-situ growth and characterization of metal oxide nanoparticles within block-copolymer polyelectrolyte membranes

Abstract In-situ growth of nanometer size metal oxide crystallites within polyelectrolyte block-copolymer membranes is demonstrated with example of ZnO loaded Nexar and SEBS films. The proposed method allows for the controlled synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles ranging from 2 to 8 nm uniformly dispersed within the membranes. The fabricated films are characterized with XRD, TEM and HAADF-STEM techniques. It is shown that particles size and shape can be tuned by varying the solvent composition. Addition of methanol favors the growth of smaller-sized ZnO. The proposed method can be applied to produce other metal oxide – polyelectrolyte nanocomposites, which may find various applications ranging from fuel cells and other electrochemical devices to separation membranes and protective barriers.
Noncontact super-resolution guided wave array imaging of subwavelength defects using a multiscale deep learning approach:

Subwavelength defect imaging using guided waves has been known to be a difficult task mainly due to the diffraction limit and dispersion of guided waves. In this article, we present a noncontact su...
Transition metal catalyzed glycosylation reactions – an overview

Carbohydrates are a large class of natural products that play key roles in a number of biological processes such as in cellular communication or disease progression. Carbohydrates are also used as vaccines and pharmaceuticals. Their synthesis through glycosylation reactions is challenging, and often stoichiometric amounts of promoters are required. Transition metal catalyzed glycosylation reactions are far less common, but can have advantages with respect to reaction conditions and selectivity. The review intends to approach the topic from the catalysis and carbohydrate perspective to encourage researchers from both the fields to perform research in the area. The article covers the basics in glycosylation and catalysis chemistry. The catalysts for the reaction can be roughly divided into two groups. In one group, the catalysts serve as Lewis acids. In the other group, the catalysts play a higher sophisticated role, are involved in all elementary steps of the mechanism and remain coordinated to the substrate throughout the whole catalytic cycle. Based on selected examples, the main trends in transition metal catalyzed glycosylation reactions are explained. Lewis acid catalysts tend to require a somewhat higher catalyst load compared to other organometallic catalysts. The reaction conditions such as the temperature and time depend in many cases on the leaving group employed. An outlook is also presented. The article is not meant to be comprehensive; it outlines the most common transition metal catalyzed processes with the intention to bring the catalysis and carbohydrate communities together and to inspire research activities in both areas.
Supertwisted spirals of layered materials enabled by growth on non-Euclidean surfaces.

Euclidean geometry is the fundamental mathematical framework of classical crystallography. Traditionally, layered materials are grown on flat substrates; growing Euclidean crystals on non-Euclidean surfaces has rarely been studied. We present a general model describing the growth of layered materials with screw-dislocation spirals on non-Euclidean surfaces and show that it leads to continuously twisted multilayer superstructures. This model is experimentally demonstrated by growing supertwisted spirals of tungsten disulfide (WS2) and tungsten diselenide (WSe2) draped over nanoparticles near the centers of spirals. Microscopic structural analysis shows that the crystal lattice twist is consistent with the geometric twist of the layers, leading to moire superlattices between the atomic layers.
Updates in the management and future landscape of urothelial carcinoma

Urothelial carcinoma is the sixth most common cancer type in the United States. Although most patients present with early stage disease which is associated with improved outcomes, many will progress to locally advanced or metastatic disease. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have significantly impacted the treatment paradigm for patients and have resulted in improved survival rates. Despite their proven efficacy, many ongoing clinical trials continue to refine combinations with chemotherapy, sequencing of therapies and the role of ligand expression. Additionally, novel targets have been identified for advanced urothelial carcinoma and have led to the approval of the antibody-drug conjugate, enfortumab vedotin, and the fibroblast growth factor receptor-targeted, erdafitinib. Enrollment in a clinical trial is strongly encouraged for all stages of advanced or metastatic disease. Numerous ongoing clinical trials are likely to impact the treatment armamentarium for patients. In this manuscript, we highlight key updates in the clinical management for patients and outline ongoing trials.
Wear-induced microstructural evolution of ultra-fine grained (UFGs) aluminum

Abstract We investigated hardness and tribological properties of ultra-fine grain (UFG) aluminum samples prepared by accumulative rolling bonding (ARB) and by physical vapor deposition (PVD). We have found wear-induced grain refinement in this material for the first time and we have identified a transition from grain growth to grain refinement as a function of the mean contact stress. This trend is the same for the PVD and ARB samples, which means it does not depend on the synthesis method. The hardness was found to increase with a decreasing grain size, but the results deviated from the Hall-Petch relation. Among ARB samples, UFG Al with the highest initial hardness was found to be the most wear-resistant. However, PVD-grown UFG Al was found to be most wear-resistant among all samples, even though it was not the hardest. The reason lies in the different dislocation contents of the samples prepared by different methods and in a subsequent wear-induced evolution of dislocation networks. The mechanisms of microstructural evolution in UFG Al were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and the main mechanism identified is the dynamic recrystallization (DRX), including both continuous DRX and discontinuous DRX.
Neighborhood Characteristics and Inflammation among Older Black Americans: The Moderating Effects of Hopelessness and Pessimism.

Background Research documents the adverse health effects of systemic inflammation. Overall, older Black Americans tend to have higher inflammation than older non-Hispanic white adults. Given that inflammation is related to a range of chronic health problems that disproportionately affect Blacks compared to whites, this racial disparity in inflammation may contribute to racial disparities in particular chronic health problems. Thus, a better understanding of its determinants in the older Black population is of critical importance. This analysis examined the association between neighborhood characteristics and inflammation in a national sample of older non-Hispanic Black Americans. An additional aim of this study was to determine whether hopelessness and pessimism moderates the association between neighborhood characteristics and inflammation. Methods A sample of older non-Hispanic Black Americans aged 60+ were drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (N=1,004). Neighborhood characteristics included neighborhood physical disadvantage and neighborhood social cohesion. Inflammation was assessed by C-reactive protein (CRP). Results The analyses indicated that neighborhood physical disadvantage and social cohesion were not associated with CRP. Hopelessness and pessimism moderated the association between neighborhood physical disadvantage and CRP. Conclusions Knowledge regarding the role of hopelessness and pessimism as moderator in the neighborhood-inflammation association can inform cognitive-behavioral interventions targeted at changes in cognition patterns.
A multicontrast MR atlas of the Wistar rat brain.

Abstract Abstract We describe a multi-contrast, multi-dimensional atlas of the Wistar rat acquired at microscopic spatial resolution using magnetic resonance histology (MRH). Diffusion weighted images, and associated scalar images were acquired of a single specimen with a fully sampled Fourier reconstruction, 61 angles and b=3000 s/mm2 yielding 50 um isotropic spatial resolution. The higher angular sampling allows use of the GQI algorithm improving the angular invariance of the scalar images and yielding an orientation distribution function to assist in delineating subtle boundaries where there are crossing fibers and track density images providing insight into local fiber architecture. A multigradient echo image of the same specimen was acquired at 25 um isotropic spatial resolution. A quantitative susceptibility map enhances fiber architecture relative to the magnitude images. An accompanying multi-specimen atlas (n=6) was acquired with compressed sensing with the same diffusion protocol as used for the single specimen atlas. An average was created using diffeomorphic mapping. Scalar volumes from the diffusion data, a T2* weighted volume, a quantitative susceptibility map, and a track density volume, all registered to the same space provide multiple contrasts to assist in anatomic delineation. The new template provides significantly increased contrast in the scalar DTI images when compared to previous atlases. A compact interactive viewer based on 3D Slicer is provided to facilitate comparison among the contrasts in the multiple volumes. The single volume and average atlas with multiple 3D volumes provide an improved template for anatomic interrogation of the Wistar rat brain. The improved contrast to noise in the scalar DTI images and the addition of other volumes (eg. QA,QSM,TDI ) will facilitate automated label registration for MR histology and preclinical imaging.
What Caused the Recent Asian Currency Crises

This paper argues that the recent Asian currency crisis was caused by prospective future deficits associated with implicit bank bailouts.
Invisible fluorescent code reader

An invisible fluorescent code reader which functions as an identification detector and is designed primarily for security purposes is discussed. The identification source is a fluorescent code that cannot be seen in visible light of the spectrum from approximately 400 nm to 800 nm in wavelength. However, this code becomes visible when it is exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The code is then detected and processed, and proper outputs are produced. >
Culinary Indexers' Reference Sources

Handout accompanying a presentation for the 2014 American Society for Indexing Conference. This handout lists culinary reference sources in print and online.
Determination of plasma membrane lipid mass and composition in cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells using high gradient magnetic affinity chromatography

We have utilized wheat germ agglutinin conjugated to iron/dextran particles in conjunction with high gradient magnetic affinity chromatography (HIMAC) to prepare plasma membranes from cultured cells. Membrane-impermeable succinimidyl esters inactivate alkaline phosphodiesterase 1 (APDE-1) and were used to establish the proportion of APDE-1 expressed at the cell surface. The yield of inhibitable APDE-1 provides an accurate indication of plasma membrane yield, which was > 90% for Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Plasma membranes prepared by HIMAC contained
Biologically active components from mycobacterial cell walls. IV. Protection of mice against aerosol infection with virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Abstract Cell walls prepared from Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) and associated with oil droplets have been shown to protect mice from aerosol infection with the virulent H37Rv strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A combination of the peptidoglycolipid cell wall skeleton (CWS-I), prepared by exhaustive organic solvent extraction of BCG cell walls, and P3, isolated by centrifugal microparticulate bed chromatography from the free lipids of the mycobacterial cell wall, gave protection comparable to that provided by whole BCG cell wall. Neither component by itself was capable of protecting mice. The mechanism of protection based upon the chemistry of the mycobacterial components is discussed.
Gd5Si2Ge2 composite for magnetostrictive actuator applications

A composite system containing particles of Gd5Si2Ge2, which exhibit a colossal magnetic-field-induced strain, has been prepared. The composite is manufactured by embedding ball-milled Gd5Si2Ge2 particles with a size distribution of <600 μm in a resin matrix. The thermally induced volume strain in the composite resulting from phase transformation is found to be 1300 ppm. The magnetically induced linear strain resulting from phase transformation is also measured, from which the volume strain is deduced to be 1650 ppm. The volume strain from the composite is significantly lower than phase transformation strain of the bulk Gd5Si2Ge2 (8000 ppm) and is mainly attributed to nonalignment of the particles in the matrix. An analytical model for a 1–3 composite (particles aligned in a single direction in a polymer matrix) and a 0–3 composite (particles dispersed randomly in a polymer matrix) predicts significantly higher strains in a 1–3 composite.
Home blood pressure monitoring improves the diagnosis of hypertension in hemodialysis patients.

Using interdialytic ambulatory blood pressure (BP) recordings as the reference standard, we compared the performance of routine, standardized and home BP monitoring in 104 predominantly black patients on chronic hemodialysis for at least 3 months. Dialysis unit BP recordings were averaged over 2 weeks and home BP over 1 week. Awake ambulatory BP of ≥135 mmHg systolic or ≥85 mmHg diastolic was taken as evidence of hypertension. Average awake ambulatory BP was 128.1±21.6/73.5±13.5 mmHg, home BP 141.3±21.9/78.7±11.9 mmHg, standardized pre-dialysis BP 141.7±22.6/74.2±13.5 mmHg and post-dialysis 119.9±20.5/69.1±13.1 mmHg, routine pre-dialysis 145.4±21.8/79.0±13.1 mmHg and post-dialysis 131.5±19.2/72.5±11.4 mmHg. Sixty-three percent of the patients had well-controlled BP by ambulatory BP monitoring and isolated diastolic hypertension was rare (3%). The standard deviation of the differences between ambulatory and routine pre-dialysis BP was 17.6 mmHg, routine post-dialysis was 16.1 mmHg, standardized pre-dialysis was 16.4 mmHg, standardized post-dialysis was 14.1 mmHg, and home BP was 14.2 mmHg. The area under receiver operating characteristic curves was similar for home and standardized BP but lower for routine BP. Home systolic BP of ≥150 mmHg averaged over 1 week had the best combination of sensitivity (80%) and specificity (84.1%) in diagnosing systolic hypertension – present in 94% of the hypertensive dialysis patients. Home BP monitoring is similar to standardized recording of BP in hemodialysis patients. A systolic BP threshold of 150 mmHg at home averaged over 1 week serves as a useful predictor of hypertension diagnosed by ambulatory BP monitoring.
Partial amino acid sequence of the preprotein form of the alpha subunit of human choriogonadotropin and identification of the site of subsequent proteolytic cleavage

Abstract Messenger RNA isolated from first trimester placentae was translated using radiolabeled amino acids in both the wheat germ and the ascites cell-free systems. The choriogonadotropin α subunit product was purified by immunoprecipitation with a subunit specific antiserum. Its amino acid sequence was partially determined by automated Edman degradation analysis. An NH2-terminal extension of 24 amino acids was found and its partial sequence is: The preprotein form of the subunit was cleaved by the addition of microsomal membranes resulting in a homogeneous NH2-terminal product. Hence, it is unlikely that this processing step accounts for the heterogeneity that has been observed previously in the structure of this region of the subunit.
Issues in the Definition of Mental Retardation and the Representativeness of Studies.

The lack of a clear definition of mental retardation in many studies and the lack of a description of the methods used in selecting subjects make it difficult to determine to whom the results apply. A review of prevalence studies of MR in childhood shows that over the past 30 years there has been a trend of decreasing rates. Reasons are suggested to explain these falling prevalence rates. Adult prevalence rates were lower than childhood rates and reasons are suggested for this drop. Factors needing consideration in future studies are suggested.
Limitations of the molecular multipole expansion treatment of electrostatic interactions for C-H...O and O-H...O hydrogen bonds and application of a general charge density approach.

A molecular multipole expansion treatment (up to hexadecapole) is examined for its accuracy in describing hydrogen-bond electrostatic interactions, with particular reference to explaining the differences between blue-shifted C−H···O and red-shifted O−H···O bonds. In interactions of H2O and CH4 with point charges at hydrogen-bonding distances, we find that the molecular multipole treatment not only fails to reproduce ab initio energies but also forces on OH or CH bonds, and therefore cannot properly account for the electrostatic component of the interaction. A treatment based on a molecule's permanent charge density and its derivatives and the charge density and its derivatives induced by an external multipole distribution is in full accord with ab initio results, as shown by application to models of the H2O−H2O and CH4−FH systems. Such a charge density approach provides a fundamental basis for understanding the importance of interaction forces in initiating structural change and thereby altering molecular...
Temperature selection and critical thermal maxima of the fantail darter, Etheostoma flabellare, and johnny darter, E. nigrum, related to habitat and season

Riffle dwelling fantail darters (Etheostoma flabellare) selected lower temperatures in winter (19.3° C) compared to pool dwelling johnny darters (E. nigrum; 22.0° C). A similar trend was evident in summer tests (fantail darters, 20.3° C; johnny darters, 22.9° C). Summer tested animals selected higher temperatures than winter tested animals maintained at the same acclimation temperature and photoperiod. When tested together in the same gradient, both species appeared not to thermoregulate, but tended to avoid each other. Critical thermal maxima (CTMax) did not differ between seasons for either species (fantail darters, 31.1° C winter, 31.3°C summer; johnny darters, 30.9° C winter, 30.5°C summer). Differences in the thermal responses of these darters correlated with differences in their respective habitats.
A Path Analysis of Community Leadership within Viable Rural Communities in Florida

The article considers the issue of leadership within rural communities, and how sense of community and social capital work with leadership to encourage change. Drawing on the research of leadership through a comparative case study undertaken in two viable Florida communities, we examine the relationships and effects among the aforementioned variables. Using path analysis, results indicated only community empowerment and building social capital through trust had a direct effect on a community's openness to change. Conclusions illustrated leadership importance at the community level. Effective community leaders assisted in developing important relationships, establishing communication and imparting community direction, thereby providing the needed link between variables. Implications suggest a unique type of community leadership training is needed as well as further research focusing on leadership, change and development.
Directed evolution: An evolving and enabling synthetic biology tool

Synthetic biology, with its goal of designing biological entities for wide-ranging purposes, remains a field of intensive research interest. However, the vast complexity of biological systems has heretofore rendered rational design prohibitively difficult. As a result, directed evolution remains a valuable tool for synthetic biology, enabling the identification of desired functionalities from large libraries of variants. This review highlights the most recent advances in the use of directed evolution in synthetic biology, focusing on new techniques and applications at the pathway and genome scale.
Uncommon trajectories: steroid hormones, Mexican peasants, and the search for a wild yam.

Abstract This article analyzes how evolving pharmaceutical technology, chemical advances, and world politics created the need for an abundant and cheap supply of steroids, and how decisions made in faraway laboratories ultimately determined that a Mexican yam, barbasco, was the best possible raw material. Following this discovery, this article explores how barbasco’s exploitation impacted on the Mexican countryside and specifically the men and women hired to gather wild yams. In analyzing, for example, the peasant organizations that emerged, the use of chemical terms by barely literate peasants, and the Mexican government’s political strategy to control rural unrest by controlling barbasco production one begins to understand the unexpected consequences of the global search for medicinal plants. In this particular case, the merging of science and peasant life reshuffled social hierarchies in the countryside, granted monetary value to an erstwhile ‘weed’, and gave a novel reinterpretation to laboratory knowledge and its (social) uses.
Zoledronic acid inhibits primary bone tumor growth in Ewing sarcoma

BACKGROUND Zoledronic acid has been shown to be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis, hypercalcemia, and metastatic bone tumors. The efficacy of zoledronic acid on primary bone tumors has not been investigated. METHODS A primary bone tumor mouse model was established. Intratibia injection of TC71 cells resulted in an osteolytic bone tumor. Four days after injection the mice were treated with zoledronic acid alone, paclitaxel alone, or zoledronic acid plus paclitaxel. Control mice were treated with phosphate-buffered saline. Bone tumor growth was assessed using a Faxitron Specimen Radiography System. The gene expression was detected by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), ELISA, and immunohistochemistry. Osteoclast formation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. RESULTS Zoledronic acid induced apoptosis in TC71 human Ewing sarcoma cells and inhibited cell proliferation. Five weeks after injection, 89% of mice in the control group developed osteolytic bone tumors. Paclitaxel had little effect on bone tumor growth, with 78% of mice developing tumors. By contrast, 44% of mice treated with zoledronic acid developed bone tumors. The most effective treatment was zoledronic acid plus paclitaxel. Tumor incidence in the combination therapy group was only 22%. Osteoclasts were quantified using TRAP staining. There was a decrease in TRAP-positive osteoclasts in tumor tissues from zoledronic acid-treated animals compared to control animals. RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA assay demonstrated that zoledronic acid up-regulated osteoprotegerin expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that zoledronic acid induces apoptosis and inhibits primary bone tumor growth in Ewing sarcoma through a mechanism involving the up-regulation of osteoprotegerin. Zoledronic acid may provide a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients with Ewing sarcoma. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.