cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Energy Bands of Copper Chloride I. Theory

A calculation of the energy bands of CuCl has been performed in which several innovations and refinements were made to previous procedures. In this paper the method used in the calculation is described. The combined plane-wave tight-binding (“mixed-basis”) method of Kunz was adapted to the zinc blende lattice. Tight-binding functions were truncated so as not to overlap one another, as suggested by Deegan and Twose. Overlap between these functions and the short-range potential (which was not truncated) of neighboring ions was significant and so was included. A semiempirical approach was devised which involved adding a square-well potential of adjustable strength to each ionic potential. In order to obtain coefficients of p-like and d-like contributions to a given eigenfunction, a technique was devised for projecting these from the plane waves. Es werden die Energiebander von CuCl berechnet, wobei gegenuber fruheren Berechnungen einige Anderungen und Verbesserungen eingefuhrt werden. In dieser Arbeit wird die in den Berechnungen benutzte Mothode beschrieben. Die kombinierte „ebene Wellen-feste Bindung” („gemischte Basis”)-Methode von Kunz wurde dem Zinkblendegitter angepaot. Wie von Deegan und Twose vorgeschlagen, werden die tight-binding-Funktionen so beschnitten, das die sich nicht uberlappen. Die Uberlappung zwischen diesen Funktionen und dem kurzreichweitigen Potential der Nachbarionen (das nicht beschnitten wird) ist wesentlich und wird deshalb einbezogen. Ein halbempirisches Verfahren wird entwickelt, das die Addition eines Rechteckpotentials anpasbarer Starke zu jedem Ionenpotential einschliest. Um die Koeffizienten der p- und d-ahnlichen Beitrage zu einer gegebenen Eigenfunktion zu erhalten, wird eine Technik fur die Projektion dirser Beitrage aus ebenen Wellen entwickelt.
Essential Role of Adenosylcobalamin in Leucine Synthesis from β-Leucine in the Domestic Chicken

This study was designed to investigate a postulated relationship between vitamin B-12 and leucine metabolism in mature domestic chickens. Plasma amino acid analysis revealed the presence of beta-leucine at a concentration of 60 to 80 mumol/l. After 425 d on a vitamin B-12-deficient diet, plasma beta-leucine was 133% higher (P less than 0.06) and plasma leucine and methionine lower (P less than 0.03) than values in plasma from hens fed a diet adequate in vitamin B-12. Branched-chain-amino-acid aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.42) (BCAT) activity was not enhanced by vitamin B-12 deprivation (P greater than 0.05). In contrast to leucine, beta-leucine was not utilized as substrate by BCAT for the formation of alpha-ketoisocaproate. Kidney extracts possessed leucine 2,3-aminomutase (EC 5.4.3.7) (LAM) activity, as evidenced by enhanced conversion of beta-leucine to alpha-leucine in the presence of adenosylcobalamin. LAM activity could not be demonstrated in liver or muscle extract, while leucine formation by pancreas extract was negligible. These data represent the first evidence of the presence of the amino acid beta-leucine in chicken plasma. In addition, the data support vitamin B-12-dependent leucine synthesis from beta-leucine in the chicken and highlight the kidney's role in leucine synthesis.
Streaming-data algorithms for high-quality clustering

Streaming data analysis has recently attracted attention in numerous applications including telephone records, Web documents and click streams. For such analysis, single-pass algorithms that consume a small amount of memory are critical. We describe such a streaming algorithm that effectively clusters large data streams. We also provide empirical evidence of the algorithm's performance on synthetic and real data streams.
Role and mechanism of the maturation cleavage of VP0 in poliovirus assembly: Structure of the empty capsid assembly intermediate at 2.9 Å resolution

The crystal structure of the P1/Mahoney poliovirus empty capsid has been determined at 2.9 A resolution. The empty capsids differ from mature virions in that they lack the viral RNA and have yet to undergo a stabilizing maturation cleavage of VP0 to yield the mature capsid proteins VP4 and VP2. The outer surface and the bulk of the protein shell are very similar to those of the mature virion. The major differences between the 2 structures are focused in a network formed by the N-terminal extensions of the capsid proteins on the inner surface of the shell. In the empty capsids, the entire N-terminal extension of VP1, as well as portions corresponding to VP4 and the N-terminal extension of VP2, are disordered, and many stabilizing interactions that are present in the mature virion are missing. In the empty capsid, the VP0 scissile bond is located some 20 A away from the positions in the mature virion of the termini generated by VP0 cleavage. The scissile bond is located on the rim of a trefoil-shaped depression in the inner surface of the shell that is highly reminiscent of an RNA binding site in bean pod mottle virus. The structure suggests plausible (and ultimately testable) models for the initiation of encapsidation, for the RNA-dependent autocatalytic cleavage of VP0, and for the role of the cleavage in establishing the ordered N-terminal network and in generating stable virions.
THE SPECIFIC SORPTION OF COBALT AND ZINC BY LAYER SILICATES

ABSTRACT The sorption of Co and Zn by layer silicates was studied in dilute mineral suspensions containing, in most cases, about 10 –6 M Co or Zn. Electrostatic adsorption was eliminated by the presence of 0.1 N CaCl 2 . Co and Zn were determined by a radioisotopic technique. Detailed studies on montmorillonite and to a lesser extent vermiculite, muscovite and biotite revealed the presence of at least two forms of specifically sorbed Co, one of which was exchangeable by certain ions such as Cu, Ni, Zn, Fe, Mn or more Co and the other, occurring in much smaller amounts, was not exchangeable by these cations. The latter form is considered to result from lattice penetration; the former is associated with surface groups. These forms may be separated quantitatively by several desorption procedures including successive extractions with dilute acetic acid. The total amount and relative proportion of these forms of sorbed Co and Zn depend on the pH of the system, time of reaction, mineral species used, and amount of Co or Zn added. Equilibrium is not readily attained but tends to approach a slow steady state after several days. Isotherms indicate a variation in bonding energy with surface coverage. The sorption of Co and Zn from dilute solutions by any mineral is related to its stability. These studies, considered in conjunction with published data, suggest that a common mechanism may be involved in the specific sorption of many heavy metal cations by many minerals.
Reactivation of regressing corpora lutea by estradiol in the pregnant rat: dependence on placental lactogen.

Previous investigations have clearly demonstrated that estradiol maintains corpus luteum function. However, it is unknown whether estradiol can restimulate progesterone synthesis and/or growth of corpora lutea that have already undergone luteolysis. The present study was designed to determine 1) whether estradiol can reactivate the steroidogenic capacity and/or growth of corpora lutea that are deprived of luteo tropic support, 2) whether estradiol affects progesterone metabolism, and 3) whether the action of estradiol is related to levels of rat placental lactogen in the peripheral circulation. Rats were hypophysectomized and hysterectomized on Day 12 of pregnancy and were treated between Days 12 and 15 with either estradiol (100 pg/day) or 1-cm testosterone implants. Both treatments are known to maintain luteal concentrations of estradiol at physiological levels. In vivo treatment with either estradiol or testosterone prevented the drop in progesterone production and maintained the concentration of serum progesterone at levels found in intact pregnant rats. This action was not due to an alteration in the rate of metabolism of progesterone to 2Ocx-hydroxyprogesterone, since peripheral serum levels and in vitro production of 20a-hydroxyprogesterone were unaffected by estradiol. When testosterone treatment was started 24 and 48 h after hypophysectomy aJd hysterectomy, at a time when progesterone production had been markedly reduced and luteal growth had ceased, a restimulation of both progesterone synthesis and luteal growth was observed. However, in all cases the ability of estradiol to stimulate progesterone was finite, and corpora lutea ceased to respond by Day 1 7, coincident with the time that rat placental lactogen became undetectable in the circulation. In summary, results of this investigation indicate that the effect of estradiol on luteal steroidogenesis and growth in the pregnant rat is an inducible process. The results further suggest that the stimulatory effect of estradiol depends upon the presence of rat placental lactogen.
Radiation-induced formation of butyltin bromides

Abstract Tin and 1-bromobutane can be induced by radiation to react directly. The principal product is dibutyltin dibromide. Relatively high G -values can be obtained if the tin surface is properly prepared and if the reaction is conducted at temperatures above 90°. Higher yields are obtained with tin of small particle size and a systematic variation of the product distribution with tin mesh size has been observed. Yields may be further increased by the use of HBr as an additive.
Discovering the Discovery Tool: The Introduction and Impact on Research and Instruction at Seminole State College of Florida

This case study will focus on the adoption of a discovery tool at the Seminole State College of Florida Library. Our transition began in May 2011, with the release of the College Center for Library Automation (CCLA) Primo beta test site. Included is information on the introduction of the discovery tool to the library and college, how it was promoted, and its impact on the library's research and instructional support for students. We also share the protocols that we adopted, what we learned, the results of our user survey, and what we would do differently.
Electron microscopic study of HLA‐DR and monocyte/macrophage staining cells in the rheumatoid synovial membrane

We examined synovial membrane samples from 6 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and 3 osteoarthritis patients and from 1 normal subject, by an immunoelectron microscopic technique using anti-HLA-DR (anti-Ia) and anti-monocyte/macrophage (63D3) monoclonal antibodies. In the lining layer, the type A macrophage-like cells were strongly DR+ and 63D3+, whereas the type B fibroblast-like cells were almost completely negative. Lymphocyte-rich areas (containing more than 90% densely packed lymphocytes) showed weak and patchy DR staining of the lymphocytes. In these areas, 3-5% of the cells were macrophage-like cells which were 63D3-, a type of staining compatible with that of the interdigitating cell (IDC). In the plasma cell-containing (transitional) areas, many strongly DR+ macrophage-like cells were observed in close contact with lymphocytes and plasma cells. Ten to twenty percent of these cells were 63D3-, which suggests that they were IDC. Cells with the structural appearance of IDC were most frequently seen in those transitional areas which contained elevated concentrations (50-70%) of lymphocytes. In uninfiltrated interstitial areas, approximately 50% of the cells stained strongly with both anti-DR and 63D3 antibody, indicating that they were cells of monocyte/macrophage lineage, presumably histiocytes. This investigation has demonstrated the presence of the DR antigen in the RA synovial membrane on 1) phagocytic cells of the lining area, 2) lymphocytes and small numbers of IDC-like cells in dense, lymphocyte-rich areas, 3) large numbers of macrophage-like cells, of which some had the morphologic appearance of IDC, in transitional or plasma cell-containing areas, and 4) histiocytic cells in uninfiltrated interstitial areas. The observation of large numbers of DR+ macrophages and IDC-like cells in close contact with lymphocytes and plasma cells in the RA synovial membrane emphasizes their role in an active immune response. The observation of substantial numbers of potentially immunocompetent, DR+ histiocytic cells in uninfiltrated regions of the synovial membrane suggests that such cells may play a role in the progression of the synovial inflammatory reaction.
Nonmechanical treatment of common bile duct stones

Approximately 80% of common bile duct stones can be removed endoscopically by using standard endoscopic basket or balloon extraction techniques. The addition of mechanical lithotripsy has improved success rates by another 10%. Intraductal lithotripsy with electrohydraulic or laser technology has enabled success rates to approach 100%. Endoscopic stent placement is a last resort measure that should be reserved for patients with difficult stones who cannot tolerate intraductal shock wave lithotripsy. High equipment costs for intraductal lithotripsy and the need for cholangioscopic guidance has restricted this technology to a few specialized centers around the world. The recent development of a pulsed laser with an automated stone recognition system eliminates the need for cholangioscopic guidance and has shown promising results in preliminary studies. However, lithotripsy performed under fluoroscopic guidance seems to be less effective than when performed under direct vision. Comparing the currently available modalities for cholangioscopic guided lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy has advantages of being the most economical, practical (eg, small generator size, portable, no special outlets), and effective.
The Wages of Migrancy: Homestead Dynamics, Income Earning, and Colonial Law in Zululand, South Africa

This article examines a court case in colonial South Africa at the turn of the 20th century. The plaintiff, Ugudhla, was a newly-wed residing in his paternal homestead. He wrangled with the defendant, his polygamous father, chief Matshana kaMondisa, over lineage property and marital prospects. Ugudhla, a migrant labourer from Nkandla, Zululand, felt entitled to decide family matters because his wages from the Transvaal mines had helped the household of his mother to pay government taxes and buy needed provisions during great scarcity. Ugudhla had acquired his wealth in the burgeoning mineral revolution. His income symbolised a different route to traditional power for men who valued wage earning as both a necessity and a choice in the nascent industrial era. The family tensions arising from migrancy caused disruption, including legal contests initiated by migrants who petitioned their magistrate to ‘emancipate’ them from their father's control. As upsetting as these court cases were they did not deter moti...
The Role of Values and Unity in Family Businesses

This study tests the application of an ecosystems perspective on family businesses. Specific focuses are given to values, resources and unity within family businesses. Two separate samples are examined, the American Family Business Survey and a multilevel sample. Results from this study support the ecosystems perspective. Family businesses are shown to vary by their value for family growth in comparison to business growth. This value variation across family businesses was shown to predict internal goals and resource transfers within family businesses. This study also shows the benefit to family businesses in unifying values across individuals, as unity of values is a stronger predictor of satisfaction even when controlling for the family business’ tendency to privilege the family or business growth.
Comparing increment and decrement probes in the probed-sinewave paradigm

Using the probed-sinewave paradigm, we explore the differences between increment and decrement probes across a range of frequencies (approx. 1-19 Hz). In this paradigm, detection threshold is measured for a small test probe presented on a large sinusoidally flickering background (at eight different phases). Probe thresholds are very similar for increment and decrement probes, but there is a very small (and systematic) difference: increment thresholds are usually slightly higher relative to decrement thresholds during the part of the cycle when the background's intensity is increasing. Although Wilson's (1997, Vis. Neuro., 14, 403-423) model substantially underestimates the size of this difference, it predicts some phase dependency. However, the existence of On- and Off-pathways in Wilson's model is not important for these predictions. A recent model by Snippe, Poot, and van Hateren (2000, Vis. Neuro., 17, 449-462) may be able to predict this result by using explicit contrast-gain control rather than separate On- and Off-pathways. Auxiliary experiments measuring the perceived polarity of the probe provide a further argument suggesting that separate On- and Off-pathways are not useful in explaining increment and decrement probe thresholds.
Data security-bad code

A tutorial on viruses, worms, bacteria, and other computer diseases is presented. It describes how experts classify the various forms of malicious code at work today, the ways in which they hide and work their mischief, and a few of the infamous incidents-such as the attack on the Internet network, in the fall of 1988, of a worm program that devoured massive amounts of CPU time-that have gained international notoriety. Some of the basic forms of prevention and cure are discussed. >
Effect of galactose on free radical reactions of polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Abstract To account for impaired bactericidal activity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes during galactosemia, we have investigated the effects of galactose upon free radical reactions associated with the oxygen-dependent killing mechanism of guinea pig polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Millimolar levels of galactose, which are encountered in the circulation of infants with galactosemia, did not affect the chemical reaction of Superoxide anion with either ferricytochrome c or nitroblue tetrazolium. Galactose did, however, significantly inhibit the reaction of hydroxyl radical with methional, and we propose that such hydroxyl radical removal would be deleterious to normal bactericidal activity. Additional experiments demonstrated that polymorphonuclear leukocytes incubated in the presence of galactose reduced less ferricytochrome c than polymorphonuclear leukocytes incubated without galactose. These results imply that galactose impairs the cellular release of Superoxide anion, which would further disable bactericidal activity.
The effects of selenide molecular transformations on electrical resistivity

Abstract An experimental investigation of selenium and amorphous compositions of selenium containing either arsenic or thallium has been undertaken to ascertain the relationship between molecular transformations characteristic of these systems and electrical resistivity. Annealing amorphous selenium below 217 °C produces a complete transformation to the hexagonal polycrystalline phase with elimination of the Se 8 ring species. A sharp lowering in resistivity of five orders of magnitude accompanies such a reversible phase change. This purely thermally generated phenomenon is considered analogous to the memory effect observed in certain amorphous semiconductors. The addition of arsenic, a selenium molecular chain branching element, and thallium a chain cleaver was found to significantly modify these characteristics, including both amorphous and crystalline resistivities as well as crystallization rates. A figure of merit defined as the ratio of these resistivity values is proposed to evaluate amorphous selenides for device applications.
Phase-matched compensation films for liquid crystal displays

Both positive and negative uniaxial, and biaxial birefringent polymeric films are developed for improving contrast ratio and widening viewing angle of liquid crystal displays. Angular- and wavelength-dependent phase retardation of these compensation films are characterized. Film-compensated homeotropic and twisted nematic cells are used as examples.
Clinical Review and Implications of the Guideline for the Early Management of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and the leading cause of significant, long-term disability in the United States. Clinicians' knowledge and use of evidence to guide the care of patients with ischemic stroke are paramount to improving patient outcomes. The recently updated "Guidelines for the Early Management of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Guideline for Healthcare Professionals From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association" provides clinicians with evidence-based, expert consensus to guide the recognition and early management of patients with acute ischemic stroke. The guideline provides 115 recommendations for the management of patients with acute ischemic stroke, including 24 new recommendations and 51 revised recommendations divided into 14 major topic areas. This article reviews the recommendations and related literature and provides suggestions for use and implementation of the guideline within a stroke program of care.
A transparent broadband ultrasonic detector based on an optical micro-ring resonator for photoacoustic microscopy

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) does not rely on contrast agent to image the optical absorption contrast in biological tissue. It is uniquely suited for measuring several tissue physiological parameters, such as hemoglobin oxygen saturation, that would otherwise remain challenging. Researchers are designing new clinical diagnostic tools and multimodal microscopic systems around PAM to fully unleash its potential. However, the sizeable and opaque piezoelectric ultrasonic detectors commonly used in PAM impose a serious constraint. Our solution is a coverslip-style optically transparent ultrasound detector based on a polymeric optical micro-ring resonator (MRR) with a total thickness of 250 μm. It enables highly-sensitive ultrasound detection over a wide receiving angle with a bandwidth of 140 MHz, which corresponds to a photoacoustic saturation limit of 287 cm−1, at an estimated noise-equivalent pressure (NEP) of 6.8 Pa. We also established a theoretical framework for designing and optimizing the MRR for PAM.
FIELD-INDUCED ELECTROCONFORMATIONAL DAMAGES IN CELL MEMBRANE PROTEINS : A NEW MECHANISM INVOLVED IN ELECTRICAL INJURY

Abstract Mechanisms of electrical injury may involve electrical and thermal phenomena. These factors affect cell membranes and membrane proteins. Results of the stress of these factors include permeabilization of the cell membranes and dysfunctions of the membrane proteins, especially the voltage-sensitive membrane proteins. In this paper, we discussed mechanisms involved in damaging the K + channel proteins. We show that the level of channel damage is not directly correlated to the shock field-induced huge channel currents, therefore not to the thermal damages in the proteins. Instead, the channel damages are dependent on the field-induced supramembrane potential (magnitude and polarity). Moreover, the number of limiting charge particles which function as the voltage-sensor in the channel gating system was reduced after a supramembrane potential shock. These results indicate that a supramembrane potential shock may cause electroconformational changes in the membrane proteins, which may reveal a new mechanism involved in electrical injury. Moreover, these studies also provide evidence that external electric fields can be used to modify functions of the voltage-sensitive membrane proteins by electrical coupled conformational changes in the proteins.
Dynamics of loosely crosslinked polymer networks

An ideal crosslinked rubber will reach an equilibrium elongation soon after a constant tensile stress has been applied to it. Actual materials never reach an equilibrium strain in many cases. This fact is clarified by studying the creep curves for molten polyethyl methacrylate crosslinked with varying amounts of ethylene dimethacrylate. A quantitative theory for the observed effects is presented. It shows that the slope of the long time portion of the creep curve is dependent primarily on a parameter which characterizes the number of effective chains emanating from a network branch point. Reasonable agreement between theory and experiment is found.
Is the capability approach a sufficient challenge to distributive accounts of global justice

I begin by discussing forms of cosmopolitanism that motivate challenges to distributive accounts of global justice. I then use Sen's version of the capabilities approach to show how distributive accounts fall short, why an overarching theory of justice is not needed, and that democracy understood as the exercise of public reasoning can do the work of identifying and addressing injustices. That said in favor of Sen, I argue that his account fails to attend to the kinds of injustices emerging from relationships of power and the institutions and structures in which these relationships are embedded. To show this, I outline features of a feminist relational approach, which I then apply to Canada's attempt to address historic harms through the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission. While I agree with Sen that we do not need a theory of global justice that is universal, ideal, impartial, or abstracted from context, I aim to broaden the scope of justice beyond both distributive accounts a...
Revisiting the Instrumentality of Voice: Having Voice in the Process Makes People Think They Will Get What They Want

Research on procedural justice has found that processes that allow people voice (i.e., input) are perceived as fairer, and thus elicit more positive reactions, than processes that do not allow people voice. Original theorizing attributed these effects to beliefs that the provision of voice enhances people’s sense of process control, which people were assumed to value because it impacts their perceived likelihood of receiving desired outcomes (the instrumental perspective of procedural justice). Subsequent research questioned this perspective, arguing that outcome expectations do not account for the effects of voice. However, this subsequent research failed to directly examine the interplay of voice, outcome expectations, and reactions. The current studies revisit and extend research on this topic by asking whether manipulations of voice act as shared circumstance effects. Confirming an untested implication of the instrumental perspective, we show that giving everyone voice increases their belief, ex-ante, that they are likely to win an upcoming competition. However, this instrumental belief accounts for only part of the effects of voice on perceived procedural fairness and on general reactions to outcomes. Results suggest that voice does indeed have instrumental significance, an implication not adequately recognized in current justice theorizing. However, this instrumentality does not, by itself, explain why people value having a voice in processes that affect them.
Haemophilus influenzae Epididymo-orchitis and Bacteremia in a Man Infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Haemophilus influenzae is a major bacterial pathogen in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), although most infections with this organism occur in the respiratory tract. We describe an adult with HIV infection who presented with epididymo-orchitis due to H. influenzae. Eleven prior cases of H. influenzae epididymo-orchitis have been published, but all of these cases occurred in pediatric patients. Little is known about the prevalence of genitourinary tract infections caused by H. influenzae among adults. H. influenzae is a relatively rare cause of bacteremia in adults, but the frequency of H. influenzae bacteremia has been increasing among the HIV-positive population.
Particle coagulation, diffusion and thermophoresis in laminar tube flows

Abstract This is a theoretical study of simultaneous diffusion, thermophoresis and coagulation of submicron aerosols in non-isothermal laminar tube flows. Approximating the aerosol size distribution by a lognormal function, the general dynamic equation for aerosols is transformed to three ordinary differential equations which are solved, along with the heat equation, across the tube. The performance of this model is validated by comparing its predictions with literature results for pure particle diffusion, pure particle coagulation and pure thermophoresis. The interplay between these aerosol processes is investigated in the parameter space of the model focusing on the overall particle deposition efficiency (or, inversely, penetration). Aerosol penetration curves for non-isothermal, laminar tube flows are presented in the presence and absence of coagulation. Applications of this work are in the non-isothermal transport of particle laden streams through circular tubes (heat exchangers) and in the manufacture of lightguide preforms by modified chemical vapor deposition.
Zip14 is a complex broad-scope metal-ion transporter whose functional properties support roles in the cellular uptake of zinc and nontransferrin-bound iron

Recent studies have shown that overexpression of the transmembrane protein Zrt- and Irt-like protein 14 (Zip14) stimulates the cellular uptake of zinc and nontransferrin-bound iron (NTBI). Here, we...
Modeling potential ozone impacts from natural sources—III. Ozone modeling in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida

Abstract Photochemical trajectory modeling of high O3 occurrences in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida was performed to assess the role of biogenic hydrocarbons (HC) emissions on urban O3 formation. A photochemical mechanism that distinguishes the oxidation of isoprene and terpenes from anthropogenic HCs and ‘spatially-and-temporally-resolved’ inventories of biogenic and anthropogenic HC emissions were employed in the analysis. Though the regional biogenic and anthropogenic HC emission rates were comparable, the results indicated that the natural emissions contributed little to maximum O3. Only 2–11 ppb or 2–9% of the predicted maximum O3 was due to natural emissions. This small contribution is attributable to fast O3 biogenic HC reactions which scavenge almost as much O3 as is produced by the biogenic HC in the urban environment.
A piston corer for peat1

The construction and operation of a corer capable of recovering uncontaminated and uncompressed samples of peat and other soft sediments from precisely predetermined depths is described.
Loop ileostomy closure at an ambulatory surgery facility: a safe and cost-effective alternative to routine hospitalization.

INTRODUCTION: Temporary loop ileostomies have become widely used in colorectal surgery. Subsequent ileostomy closure has traditionally required hospital admission with observation until return of bowel function. On the basis of clinical observation, the authors hypothesized that loop ileostomy closure may be performed safely without prolonged in-hospital observation. METHODS: A protocol for 23-hour observation after loop ileostomy closure was implemented at a single institution and applied to 28 patients at an ambulatory surgery facility. Patient outcomes were reviewed and results compared with a cohort of 30 patients undergoing loop ileostomy closure before introduction of the protocol. RESULTS: The study and control groups were statistically similar in age, gender, diseases, and duration after original operation. Twenty-eight patients underwent loop ileostomy closure, and all were discharged the following day. Two patients were admitted for nausea and vomiting within 48 hours after closure and remained in the hospital for two and four days, respectively. One of these patients was readmitted 12 days after surgery with an abdominal abscess that was drained percutaneously. The mean cost per patient in the study group was $2,665. For the control population, the mean hospital stay was 2.9 days. Return of bowel function was delayed in two patients, resulting in prolonged hospital stays of six and eight days, respectively. Two patients were readmitted after discharge for nausea and vomiting. The mean cost per cohort patient was $3,811. CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing loop ileostomy closure may be discharged safely after overnight observation without increased complications or hospital readmissions. This practice significantly reduces the use of hospital resources and decreases economic cost without compromising care.
Experimental depression of junctional membrane permeability in mammalian cell culture. A study with tracer molecules in the 300 to 800 Dalton range.

Cell-to-cell junctional permeability in mammalian cell cultures was probed with a series of fluorescent tracers ranging 300 to 800 in molecular weight, during treatment with metabolic inhibitors, Ca-transporting ionophore, and carbon dioxide. Treatment with the combination of cyanide and iodoacetic acid (1–2mm each), but not with either one alone, caused reversible junctional blockade to all tracer molecular species, large and small. (Electrical coupling, however, persisted in a proportion of the junctions tested.) Treatment with the ionophore A23187 (2–10 μm) or with CO2 (an atmosphere of 100% CO2 equilibrated with the medium) produced selective junctional blockade: transmission of a 688 and an 817-dalton tracer was generally blocked, while that of a 376-dalton tracer and, in certain conditions, that of a 559-dalton one, persisted. The junctional effect of the ionophore required the presence of Ca in the external medium; and effective junctional blockade by CO2 required pretreatment in medium with high Ca concentration or, interchangeably, pretreatment in medium with high CO2 concentration. In one cell type, prolonged exposure to medium with high Ca concentration alone sufficed to block transmission of the 688-dalton tracer. These effects are discussed in terms of the Ca hypothesis of junctional permeability regulation. In comparison with mammalian (or other vertebrate and invertebrate) organized tissues or with insect cell cultures, the mammalian cell cultures are more resistant to junctional blockade. This difference in transmission stability is discussed in terms of intracellular Ca-buffering capacities of the junctional locales; in particular, in terms of the electron-microscopic finding in the mammalian cultures of fine, bilateral cell processes connected by gap junctions.
Characteristic angles in the wetting of an angular region: deposit growth.

Solids dispersed in a drying drop migrate to the (pinned) contact line. This migration is caused by outward flows driven by the loss of the solvent due to evaporation and by geometrical constraint that the drop maintains an equilibrium surface shape with a fixed boundary. Here, in continuation of our earlier paper, we theoretically investigate the evaporation rate, the flow field, and the rate of growth of the deposit patterns in a drop over an angular sector on a plane substrate. Asymptotic power laws near the vertex (as distance to the vertex goes to zero) are obtained. A hydrodynamic model of fluid flow near the singularity of the vertex is developed and the velocity field is obtained. The rate of the deposit growth near the contact line is found in two time regimes. The deposited mass falls off as a weak power $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ of distance close to the vertex and as a stronger power $\ensuremath{\beta}$ of distance further from the vertex. The power $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ depends only slightly on the opening angle $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ and stays roughly between $\ensuremath{-}1/3$ and $0.$ The power $\ensuremath{\beta}$ varies from $\ensuremath{-}1$ to $0$ as the opening angle increases from $0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$ to $180\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}.$ At a given distance from the vertex, the deposited mass grows faster and faster with time, with the greatest increase in the growth rate occurring at the early stages of the drying process.
A model of interorganelle monoclonal antibody transport and secretion in mouse hybridoma cells

A three compartment model (ER → Golgi → extracellular medium) is used here to describe the interorganelle transport and final secretion of an IgG2a monoclonal antibody (MAb) in 9.2.27 murine hybridoma cells. Model simulations of pulse-chase and continuous labeling experiments are used to gain a better understanding of the kinetics of MAb interorganelle traffic. Simulation results for the continuous labeling case compare well with experimental data obtained during continuous labeling of 9.2.27 hybridoma cells. Incorporation of this compartmental transport model into our previously developed model of MAb synthesis and assembly can provide a useful tool for analyzing the dynamics and regulation of the complete antibody secretory pathway under different growth and/or nutritional conditions.
Partial purification of inositol polyphosphate 1-phosphomonoesterase with characterization of its substrates and products by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract A study of the enzyme activities that degrade Ins(1,3,4) P 3 in rat brain showed that it was dephosphorylated primarily by a Mg 2+ -dependent inositol polyphosphate 1-phosphomonoesterase to Ins(3,4) P 2 and then to Ins(3) P by a 4-phosphomonoesterase. A less active enzyme activity with the properties of a 4-phosphomonoesterase that converted Ins(1,3,4) P 3 to Ins(1,3) P 2 was also detected. The inositol polyphosphate 1-phosphomonoesterase was separated from the 4-phosphomonoesterase and the inositol monophosphate phosphomonoesterase by chromatography on phosphocellulose, DE-52 anion exchange and hydroxylapatite columns. Kinetic characterization of the partially purified inositol polyphosphate 1-phosphomonoesterase indicated that both Ins(1,3,4) P 3 and Ins(1,4) P 2 were substrates with apparent K m values of 0.9 μM and 0.7 μM, respectively. Either substrate was a competitive inhibitor of the other substrate and dephosphorylation of both substrates was directly inhibited by Li + in an uncompetitive manner. These data strongly suggest that a single enzyme dephosphorylates both Ins(1,3,4) P 3 and Ins(1,4) P 2 . The 4-phosphomonoesterase that dephosphorylated Ins(3,4) P 2 to Ins(3) P was insensitive to Mg 2+ and Li + and was probably the same enzyme that degraded Ins(1,3,4) P 3 to Ins(1,3) P 2 . The isomeric configurations of the major inositol polyphosphates formed from the degradation of Ins(1,3,4,5) P 4 were determined using 1 H- and 31 P-NMR spectroscopy, and confirmation of the structures assigned to Ins(1,3,4,5) P 4 , Ins(1,3,4) P 3 and Ins(3,4) P 2 was obtained.
Anesthesia for liver transplantation in US academic centers: Institutional structure and perioperative care

Investigators at a single institution have shown that the organization of the anesthesia team influences patient outcomes after liver transplant surgery. Little is known about how liver transplant anesthesiologists are organized to deliver care throughout the United States. Therefore, we collected quantitative survey data from adult liver transplant programs in good standing with national governing agencies so that we could describe team structure and duties. Information was collected from 2 surveys in a series of quantitative surveys conducted by the Liver Transplant Anesthesia Consortium. All data related to duties, criteria for team membership, interactions/communication with the multidisciplinary team, and service availability were collected and summarized. Thirty-four of 119 registered transplant centers were excluded (21 pediatric centers and 13 centers not certified by national governing agencies). Private practice sites (26) were later excluded because of a poor response rate. There were minimal changes in the compositions of the programs between the 2 surveys. All academic programs had distinct liver transplant anesthesia teams. Most had set criteria for membership and protocols outlining the preoperative evaluation, attended selection committees, and were always available for transplant surgery. Fewer were involved in postoperative care or were available for patients needing subsequent surgery. Most trends were associated with the center volume. In conclusion, some of the variance in team structure and responsibilities is probably related to resources available at the site of practice. However, similarities in specific duties across all teams suggest some degree of self-initiated specialization.
Cross-modality matching functions generated by magnitude estimation.

It is possible to generate cross-modality matching functions by having subjects make magnitude estimates of sets of stimuli appropriate to different modalities. The sets are interspersed among each other in the same test session and judged on a common absolute scale of sensory magnitude. An appropriate statistical device locates stimulus levels that appear, on the average, to match. The method is fast, efficient, circumvents the need for continuous stimulus adjustment, and holds promise for the study of the individual as well as the average psychophysical function. To illustrate its potential uses, advantages, and limitations, we used the method to generate cross-modality matching functions relating loudness and brightness. Compared to the scales of loudness and brightness generated by the magnitude estimations of the same stimuli, the matching functions (1) conform better to power functions, (2) may show less variation in slope (exponent), and (3) show far less variation in absolute magnitude (position).
Transcriptional control of adipocyte formation

A detailed understanding of the processes governing adipose tissue formation will be instrumental in combating the obesity epidemic. Much progress has been made in the last two decades in defining transcriptional events controlling the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into adipocytes. A complex network of transcription factors and cell-cycle regulators, in concert with specific transcriptional coactivators and corepressors, respond to extracellular stimuli to activate or repress adipocyte differentiation. This review summarizes advances in this field, which constitute a framework for potential antiobesity strategies.
Operating high-occupancy vehicle lanes: Issues for consideration

A commitment to proactively manage, operate, and provide the necessary services for support of a high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) system is needed so that all HOV facilities can meet intended objectives and performance expectations. This operational focus should be integrated into all phases of an HOV system, from the strategic system planning through the ongoing performance monitoring and evaluation of specific facilities. The ongoing performance monitoring and evaluation of HOV facilities should be the basis for making continuous incremental changes in the way the system is managed, the way facilities are operated, and the way that support programs and services are utilized. HOV facilities are not appropriate in every location, and conditions change over time. Changes may warrant continuous adjustments or significant revisions in HOV facility operation. Before proposal of any significant changes in operation, all relevant factors, interests, alternatives, and associated impacts should be considered and anal...
Ultrasound: A new immunosuppressant☆

Abstract The medical application of low-energy ultrasound as a diagnostic aid has developed in the absence of appropriate studies of its hazards. Mice given a 5-min exposure to a 2-MHz ultrasound wave at a maximum intensity of 8.9 mW/cm2 applied over the area of the spleen responded to an injection of sheep erythrocytes with hemagglutinin log2 titers of 5.9 ± 0.15 and hemolysin titers of 7.6 ± 0.14. Sham-treated controls developed hemagglutinin titers of 7.2 ± 0.24 and hemolysin titers of 8.7 ± 0.14. This immunosuppressive effect of ultrasound was dose dependent and was not observed when ultrasound energy was applied to the mouse thigh. Ultrasound is a more efficient suppressant when given in close temporal association with the antigen and is more influential upon the primary compared to the secondary response. Mercaptoethanol reduction and single radial immunofiffusion experiments revealed that a primary difference between the experimental and control sera was an IgM deficiency of the former. This was accompanied by a significant loss of IgG2a and IgG2b. This difference in immunoglobulin levels of ultrasound exposed compared to normal mice was reflected by the lowered number of direct antibody plaque-forming cells in the spleen of the treated animals.
The new responsibility of the engineer

Engineers and scientists are responsible for the technical progress that has been made and they have expert knowledge of what can be done next. For this reason alone, they must take part in deciding public policy. However, the modern technical man has a further contribution to offer?the ability to understand the views of others, and to incorporate these views into the best possible group decisions. This article points out that this is an ethical concept that can be spelled out in an extension of the ECPD Canons of Ethics and puts forth for consideration three proposals for strengthening the Canons.
Oxygen Tension Regulates the Expression of ANK (Progressive Ankylosis) in an HIF-1-Dependent Manner in Growth Plate Chondrocytes

The proximal promoter region of ANK, a gene that codes for a protein that regulates the transport of inorganic pyrophosphate, contains two hypoxia responsive elements (HREs); therefore, we studied the expression and function of ANK at different oxygen tensions. ATDC5 and N1511 clonal chondrocytic cells were cultured in either hypoxia (2% O(2)) or normoxia (21% O(2)). Transcript and protein levels of ANK were depressed in hypoxic conditions, as were levels of extracellular pyrophosphate (ePPi). To determine whether HIF-1 was involved in the oxemic response, Hif-1alpha knockdown cells were exposed to varying oxygen conditions and ANK expression was assessed. Knockdown of Hif-1alpha resulted in low levels of expression of ANK in hypoxia and normoxia. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays explored the binding of Hif-1alpha to ANK HREs and showed that Hif-1alpha is able to bind to the HREs of ANK more avidly in normoxia than in hypoxia. Furthermore, functional studies of Hif-1alpha activity using luciferase reporter assays of wildtype and mutagenized HREs showed that only HRE-1 binds Hif-1alpha in normoxia. Expression of ANK in growth plate and articular cartilage was low in hypoxic regions of the tissues, and higher levels of ANK expression were observed in the synovium and meniscus in regions that have a normally higher oxygen tension. The data suggest that ANK expression and function in vitro and in vivo are repressed in hypoxic environments and that the effect is regulated by HIF-1.
THE SINGULARITY AND THE RAPTURE: TRANSHUMANIST AND POPULAR CHRISTIAN VIEWS OF THE FUTURE

Religious views of the future often include detailed expectations of profound changes to nature and humanity. Popular American evangelical Christianity, especially writers like Hal Lindsey, Rick Warren, or Rob Bell, offer extended accounts that provide insight into the views of the future held by many people. In the case of Lindsey, detailed descriptions of future events are provided, along with the claim that forecasted events will occur within a generation. These views are summarized and compared to the secular idea of a coming “intelligence explosion” or technological singularity as advanced by Ray Kurzweil, which is described in terms of its history as an idea and in terms of its specific proposals for the coming transformation of the cosmos, which is also predicted to occur within a generation. While profoundly different in important ways, these two perspectives share many features with each other—for example, in their respective predictions of distinct stages in the unfolding of the future of the cosmos.