cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cadmium disrupts the signal transduction pathway of both inhibitory and stimulatory receptors regulating chloride secretion in the shark rectal gland.

The heavy metal cadmium causes nephrotoxicity and alters the transport function of epithelial cells. In the shark rectal gland, chloride secretion is regulated by secretagogues and inhibitors acting through receptors coupled to G proteins and the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A pathway. We examined the effects of cadmium on the response to the inhibitory peptide somatostatin (SRIF), and to the stimulatory secretagogues forskolin and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). In control experiments, SRIF (100 nM) entirely inhibited the chloride secretory response to 10 μM forskolin (maximum chloride secretion with forskolin 1984 ± 176 μEq/h/g; with forskolin + SRIF 466 ± 93 μEq/h/g, P < 0.001). Cadmium (25 μM) entirely reversed the inhibitory response to SRIF (chloride secretion 2143 ± 222 μEq/h/g) and caused an overshoot (2917 ± 293 μEq/h/g) that exceeded the response to forskolin (P < 0.01). Cadmium also enhanced forskolin-stimulated chloride secretion (2628 ± 418 vs. 1673 ± 340 μEq/h/g, P < 0.02) and reversed the declining phase of the forskolin response. Cadmium had a concentration-dependent, biphasic effect on the response to VIP. Cd (10–100 μM) increased both chloride secretion and tissue cyclic AMP content, whereas higher concentrations (1 mM) inhibited chloride secretion and cyclic AMP accumulation. Our findings provide evidence that Cd disrupts the signal transduction pathways of both inhibitory receptors and secretagogues regulating cAMP mediated transport in an intact epithelia. The results are consistent with direct effects of cadmium on adenylate cyclase and/or phosphodiesterase activity in this marine epithelial model. J. Exp. Zool. 279:530–536, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Radiation properties of cavity Čerenkov radiation

Cerenkov radiation from cavities has been analyzed by quantum electrodynamic theory. Analytical expressions of basic radiation properties such as the Einstein’s A and B coefficients are derived and shown to be directly modified by the cavities. The analysis leads to the conclusion that the coherent radiation from the Cerenkov radiation devices is due to super radiance of spontaneous emission instead of stimulated emission. Coherent and incoherent radiations are analyzed in the THz radiation range.
Parkinson disease: the controversy of levodopa toxicity in Parkinson disease.

In the past two decades, there has been concern that levodopa—the gold-standard therapy for Parkinson disease (PD)—may be toxic to dopaminergic neurons. However, findings from a recent study suggest that chronic use of levodopa does not enhance progression of PD pathology. Can we make sense of this controversy?
Synthesis and phenotypic screening of a Guanine-mimetic library.

5-Fluoro-2-nitrobenzoic acid. To an ice-cooled suspension of 3fluorobenzo ic acid (10.5 g, 75 mmol) in sulfuric acid (50 ml) was added 10.5 ml nitric acid dropwise with vigorous stirring. After 1h, the mixture was poured into 800 ml ice-water, extracted with EtOAc, washed with water and brine, and dried over Na2SO4. Rotary evaporation and recrystallization from EtOAc-hexanes afforded 13.2 g 4 (95%). 1H-NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz): δ 7.37-7.42 (m, 1H), 7.56 (dd, J = 2, 8 Hz, 1H), 8.02 (dd, J = 4.3, 8 Hz, 1H). TLC: Rf 0.2 (1:1 EtOAc-hexanes, 2% HOAc).
Creation of Polymerizable Species in Plasma Polymerization

Plasma polymerization of trimethylsilane (TMS) was carried out and investigated in a direct current (dc) glow discharge. The formation of TMS plasma glow was carefully examined with optical photography as compared with an Ar dc glow discharge. It was found that there exists a significant difference in the nature of glow and how the glow is created in TMS glow discharge, which polymerizes or causes deposition, and that of monatomic gas such as Ar, which does not polymerize or deposit. In dc Ar discharge, the negative glow, which is the most luminous zone in the discharge, develops in a distinctive distance away from the cathode surface, and the cathode remains in the dark space. In a strong contrast to this situation, in TMS dc discharge, the primary glow that is termed as cathode-glow in this paper appears at cathode surface, while a much weaker negative glow as a secondary glow was observed at the similar location to where the Ar negative glow appears. The deposition results of plasma polymers and gas phase composition data of TMS in a closed reactor acquired by ellipsometry and residual gas analyzer (RGA) measurements clearly indicated that the cathode-glow in TMS glow discharge is mainly associated with chemically reactive species that would polymerize or form deposition, but the negative glow is related to species from simple gases that would not polymerize or deposit. Based on the glow location with respect to the cathode, it was deduced that the cathode-glow is due to photon emitting species created by molecular dissociation of the monomer that is caused by low energy electrons emanating from the cathode surface. The negative glow is due to the ionization and the formation of excited neutrals of fragmented atoms caused by high-energy electrons. Polymerizable species that would cause deposition of material (plasma polymers) are created mainly by the fragmentation of monomer molecules by low energy electrons, but not by electron-impact ionization of the monomer.
Mammals of Montana. 2nd ed.

Foresman, K. R. 2012. Mammals of Montana. Montana Press Publishing Company, Missoula, Montana, 430 pp. ISBN 978-0-87842-590-7, price (paper), $32.
The two-nucleon transfer reaction Ca40(d, α)K38

Abstract The reaction Ca 40 (d,α)K 38 has been studied with 14.8 MeV deuterons. Angular distributions of alpha particles to several levels of K 38 have been obtained and are compared with two-nucleon pick-up theories.
How Bohm’s Theory Solves the Measurement Problem

I examine recent arguments based on functionalism that claim to show that Bohm’s theory fails to solve the measurement problem, or if it does so, it is only because it reduces to a form of the many‐worlds theory. While these arguments reveal some interesting features of Bohm’s theory, I contend that they do not undermine the distinctive Bohmian solution to the measurement problem.
Elective Endovascular Aneurysm Repair in the Elderly: Trends and Outcomes From the Nationwide Inpatient Sample

Objectives This study attempted to identify trends in the use of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and outcomes in elective abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair over a 5-year period in a nationwide dataset, with specific attention to patients older than 80 years. Methods The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was queried for elective AAA repair during 2005 to 2009. Number of EVAR cases, ratio of EVAR/open aneurysm repair (OAR), major clinical outcomes, and discharge status were analyzed by decade. Interval data were compared with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and proportions via chi-squared tests. Results A total of 174,714 AAA repairs (124,869 EVARs) were identified. The ratio of EVAR/OAR increased with increasing age. Between 2005 and 2009, the total number of AAA repairs increased by 21% (7,179 vs. 8,554) and EVARs increased by 50% (5,057 vs. 7,650; P Conclusions EVAR is being performed with increasing frequency in patients older than 80 years, with one-quarter of EVAR performed in patients aged 80 years and older in the current sample. Although mortality rates remain acceptable in this elderly population, EVAR and OAR are associated with an age-dependent increase in death, complications, and discharge to extended care facilities. These factors, in addition to long-term risk of aneurysm rupture, should be considered when evaluating the appropriateness of elective aneurysm repair in the elderly.
On testing equality of intraclass correlations under unequal family sizes

The three likelihood-based tests, namely, likelihood ratio test, Rao score test, and Wald test and two more asymptotic tests which use Srivastava's estimator of intraclass correlation coefficient are considered to test the null hypothesis of equality of intraclass correlation coefficients when the families have unequal number of children. Methods are illustrated on Galton's data set. Using simulation experiment we compute the sizes and powers of these tests and compare. It is found that our proposed test using Srivastava's estimator and the score test perform the best among all tests.
IMPACT OF HOSPITAL PHARMACISTS ON THE PAEDIATRIC DISCHARGE PROCESS

Aim To evaluate the discharge planning process undertaken by hospital pharmacists in a paediatric hospital and to identify areas for improvement in the discharge planning process. Method Accurate and timely medicines information at the point of discharge is essential for continuity of care.1 Studies have been conducted on the role of the pharmacist in the adult discharge planning process but very few studies have been conducted in paediatrics.2 Many of the medicines used for infants and children are not licensed or available readily from community pharmacies. The dosage form of paediatric medicines is usually designed for adult use and may not be “age-appropriate” for a child.3 The pharmacy department contact community pharmacies daily regarding paediatric discharge prescriptions, providing information about the discharge medicines. A few days supply of medicines are commonly dispensed as unlicensed medicines and extemporaneous ingredients are not routinely stocked in community pharmacies. The authors contacted community pharmacies for each occasion a pharmacist was involved in the medication discharge planning process during January 2013. Pharmacists were invited to participate in a telephone survey regarding the discharge information they had recevied from the pharmacy department. They were asked to rate on a 5 point Likert scale the discharge information provided to them and medicine information provided to parents/carers. They were also asked if they had to order an unlicensed medicine or make an extemporaneous preparation or if the parents/carers recevied a patient medication chart. Surveys were entered into an Excel database and analysed. Results Forty-two community pharmacies were contacted and thirty-four pharmacists agreed to participate in the survey. The percentages of community pharmacies that were either very satisfied or satisfied with ordering details and timeliness of communication provided by the pharmacy department were 76% and 18% respectively. 82% of pharmacists were required to order an unlicensed medicine and 18% of pharmacists were requested to make an extemporaneous preparation. 44% of patients/carers received a patient medication chart. 89% of pharmacists were able to obtain a child9s medicines before the supply from OLCHC ran out. Conclusion The current discharge planning process is ensuring a high level of satisfaction amongst community pharmacies with regards to timeliness and completeness of discharge medication information. Hospital pharmacists can provide accurate and timely information to community pharmacies regarding paediatric discharge prescriptions allowing seamless transfer of patients to the community. It was identified that all patient medication charts should be sent to the community pharmacy as standard practice.
Immunobiology and therapeutic manipulation of heterotransplanted Nb rat prostatic adenocarcinoma. Chemotherapy of autonomous tumor, 102 Pr, heterotransplanted into congenitally athymic (nude) mice and syngeneic Nb rats.

Nb rat prostatic adenocarcinomas, previously induced by the administration of testosterone and estrogen, have been serially studied as heterotransplants into congenitally athymic (nude) mice and into groups of Nb rats. This animal system has been used to evaluate the chemotherapeutic efficacy of 5-fluorouracil and Ftorafur. The use of both species was to determine if there would be any significant difference in relative tumor growth in nude mice which lack functional T cells as opposed to intact Nb rats. The autonomous tumor, 102 Pr, is the subject of the thesis presented herein. One donor Nb rat bearing 102 Pr prostatic adenocarcinoma served as the donor for this experiment. The nude mice and Nb rats received the transplant on the same date and were subjected to the chemotherapies outlined above and were treated after there was sufficient increase in tumor volume from the 2 mm3 wedge to assure growth and neovascularity (>60 mm3). Statistically significant data was presented revealing 5-fluorouracil to be efficacious in the treatment of these tumors. Also presented is data revealing differences in growth versus time in the respective recipient animal hosts. It is suggested herein that this combination animal model system could be used for screening potential cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents.
Characterization of ultraviolet light-induced ouabain-resistant mutations in chinese hamster cells

Abstract Ouabain-resistant mutations in Chinese hamster cells have been quantitatively characterized. The mutation frequencies were found to be induced curvelinearly with treatments of increasing doses of ultraviolet light (UV). For the range of UV doses tested (5–20 J/m 2 ), the observed mutation frequency, Y , as a function of UV dose X , follows a curvilinear function, Y = (−28 + 13.37 X − 1.52 X 2 + 0.08 X 3 ) · 10 −6 . The frequencies of UV-induced mutations were directly correlated with cell survival, indicating a similar causal relationship between cell killing and mutation induction. Under the same experimental conditions, X-rays induced 6-thioguanine-, but not ouabain-, resistant mutations. UV-induced ouabain-resistant (oua r ) mutants exhibit a selection disadvantage. Their phenotypic expressions are modifiable by various agents. Wild type and 16 oua r mutants were compared with respect to their sensitivity to ouabain inhibition of 86 Rb uptake by whole cells. All the oua r mutants assayed are less sensitive to the drug than are wild-type cells. In the absence of ouabain, the Na + −K + -ATPase activities can be significantly higher or lower than that of the wild-type cells.
MODELING SENSOR CONFIDENCE FOR SENSOR INTEGRATION TASKS

This paper addresses the problem of determining the reliability of individual sensors in a multi-sensor robotic system in an unknown environment. The inherent difficulty in this problem is that the decision must be based solely upon the data from the sensors themselves. While some previous research has considered unstructured environments (see Refs. 1 and 2 for examples) little if any consideration has been given to totally unknown environments. This problem has usually been avoided by assuming that the sensors would not provide erroneous data or ignoring sensors when they appeared to provide erroneous data. We believe a more robust solution is to consider each sensor’s performance over time compared to other sensors, and from this determine a measure of confidence in each sensor. This allows sensors which temporarily provide erroneous data to be accommodated. A system which can determine the reliability of its sensors is more robust since it can wisely decide which sensors are most appropriate for a given task and can also determine whether sensor conflicts are the result of poorly performing sensors.
Functionality of MscL in Droplet Interface Bilayer

A droplet interface bilayer (DIB) forms when two water droplets in oil are brought into contact in the presence of lipid molecules. DIBs have shown to be promising in providing a lipid bilayer platform for studying ion channels and biological nanopores. In this work, using extensive all-atom molecular dynamics simulations (up to 1,000,000 atoms), we study the response of a large conductance mechanosensetive protein channel (MscL), embedded in a DIB, to electrochemical stimulations. MscL channel activation has been known to be tension-dependent meaning that they conduct ions when excited mechanically. Here, we find that a MscL channel at its intermediate expanded state can undergo a conformational change to further expand and reach its fully open state when an ion concentration gradient is applied across the DIB. This gradient is applied such that the salt solution in one droplet is dilute and the other is concentrated. Ions move by diffusion from the high concentrated droplet to the low concentrated droplet resulting in a flow of water and ions through the channel and subsequently expanding MscL. The ion concentration gradient across the DIB introduces a gain of function in MscL opening mechanism and can lead to implementing novel nano-scale biologically-inspired materials and devices.
Wounds: here today and gone tomorrow!: The use of temporary skin tattoos in teaching wound care to associate degree nursing students

Abstract As a nursing instructor in an associate degree nursing program, imaginative and creative teaching methods have been sought for a variety of nursing concepts or skills. Ideas have been gleaned from peer journals, online resources, workshops, and conferences and through discussions with veteran nursing instructors. However, this teaching idea did not come through academia. This novel idea came from the neighborhood discount store: Wal-Mart. This instructor came across several packages of different styles of temporary skin tattoos while shopping at the neighborhood Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart marketed the temporary skin tattoos for the Halloween season, which depicted exaggerated wounds with several of the tattoos having sutures or "surgical" clips. The tattoos provided the nursing students with fairly realistic wounds to perform sterile wound care with.
Kinetic energy in density-functional theory

While Kohn-Sham theory uses the quantum-mechanical operator for kinetic energy, Thomas-Fermi theory replaces this with an effective local potential. If both theories are based on the exact universal density functional defined by Hohenberg-Kohn theory, it is an interesting question whether they should give the same results for $N$-electron ground states. This question is examined and answered in the negative. The inconsistency is resolved only by extending the definition of functional derivatives to encompass linear operators. An exact theory must incorporate one-electron energies and occupation numbers derived from Kohn-Sham theory.
Mars Pathfinder convective vortices: Frequency of occurrence

[1] The frequency of occurrence of small-scale convective vortices at the Mars Pathfinder lander location exhibits a diurnal variation similar to terrestrial dust devil observations. The 79 vortices detected via their pressure signatures during the 83 sol mission, when combined with an assessment of the incompleteness of data temporal coverage, implies that at least two vortices passed by the lander site each sol. If the vortices are dust laden, as inferred from lander imaging, then the observed vortex frequency is capable of maintaining the observed atmospheric dust load against sedimentation loss. The time-of-sol variation in vortex occurrence provided by Pathfinder, when combined with orbiter imaging of dust devils at a very limited time of sol, offers a potential means of quantifying the effect of these small-scale vortices upon the atmospheric dust cycle.
A vacancy superlattice in metals

The problem of what the criterion is for the formation of a stable vacancy superlattice in metals, is addressed. Calculations are made for alkali metals, whose elastic anisotropy parameter is negative; they indicate a vacancy superlattice stability at lattice spacings approximately 3 in both Na and K. (DLC)
Modeling Nanoparticle Formation during Early Stages of Zeolite Growth: A Low-Coordination Lattice Model of Template Penetration

We present an extension of the simple-cubic lattice model developed by Jorge et al. [J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2005, 127, 14388] of nanoparticle growth in the clear solution synthesis of silicalite-1 (MFI). We have implemented the model on a body-center cubic (bcc) lattice with second-neighbor repulsions, to generate a four-coordinate network that mimics the tetrahedral structure of silica. With this low-coordination lattice model we observe that the nanoparticles are metastable, possessing a core-shell structure with mostly silica in the core and templates forming a shell. Nanoparticle size is found to increase with temperature and decrease with solution pH, in qualitative agreement with results from experiment and the previous lattice model study. The low-coordination model makes it possible to model porosity in the silica core of nanoparticles. We use this feature to investigate the extent of template penetration into the silica core, a level of nuance missing in experimental data on the core-shell model. We find that template penetration is rare for bulky templates. We discuss the implications of this result for understanding the role of these nanoparticles in the growth of MFI, especially in light of recent experiments on the long-time behavior of nanoparticle suspensions.
Area postrema: Gastric vagal input from proximal stomach and interactions with nucleus tractus solitarius in cat

The responses of neurons in the area postrema (AP) during electrical stimulation of the gastric vagal branches that serve the proximal stomach were evaluated in halothane-anesthetized cats. The evoked orthodromic responses were localized bilaterally in the AP and had a mean latency of 272 ms (SD +/- 53.1). Convergence of gastric vagal input on single AP units from afferents in the ventral and dorsal vagal trunks serving the proximal stomach was observed on 13% of gastric vagally evoked neurons. Reciprocal connections between neuronal populations in the nucleus tractus solitarius and the AP were identified electrophysiologically by direct microstimulation of the former structure. Spontaneously AP discharging units showed an increase in frequency after NTS microstimulation. Our study provided evidence that the AP neurons received vagal input from the proximal stomach and suggested a potential role of the AP in the regulation of food intake.
In vivo mechanisms of alloreactivity--IV. Cyclosporine differentially impairs accumulation of donor-reactive CTL but not donor-reactive alloantibody in murine sponge matrix allografts.

Abstract We have studied the influence of Cyclosporine on accumulation of donor-reactive CTL, donor-reactive cytotoxic alloantibody and as an immunosuppressive drug in individual murine sponge matrix allografts. During these studies, we observed that: (1) levels of CsA in sponge matrix allografts rapidly reach levels that are immunosuppressive in vitro , i.e. >100 ng/ml, following daily i.m. or subsponge CsA injections of 30 mg/kg; (2) donor-reactive CTL continue to accumulate and develop cytolytic activity in sponge allografts from mice treated i.m., but not subsponge with CsA; (3) delay or interruption of subsponge CsA therapy decreases the ability of CsA to block CTL accumulation in sponge matrix allografts; (4) relatively high local concentrations of CsA appeared to be necessary to influence CTL behavior in sponge matrix allografts; (5) CsA therapy had a different effect on the development of donor-reactive cytotoxic alloantibody. Intramuscular CsA therapy potentiated alloantibody production whereas subsponge CsA therapy temporarily delayed alloantibody production. These studies demonstrate that CsA can differentially impair the accumulation of donor-reactive CTL, but not donor-reactive alloantibody in sponge matrix allografts. These results have several theoretical and clinical implications. They also illustrate the utility of sponge matrix allografts from concomitant in vivo immunologic and pharmacologic studies at the site of a localized immune response.
Melt-freeze-cycle life-testing of Glauber's salt in a rolling cylinder heat store

Abstract In three separate tests Glauber's salt in a rolling cylinder was subjected to 126, 203 and 198 melt-freeze cycles. At about 10 cycle intervals the freeze 1 2 cycle was observed quantitatively in a rate calorimeter. All three tests gave the same results: 100 per cent of the theoretical latent heat was recovered within experimental error (± 5 per cent), and no degradation of performance occurred with repeated cycling, 67% of the latent heat was recovered isothermally (within 1.5°C of the phase change temperature) when measured under a load of 313 W/m2 (100 Btu/hr/sq ft). Errors appeared to be randomly distributed about the average and to be trendless with cycle number. Sodium sulfate particles increased in size during each cycle. This hysteresis was too slight to affect cycle 203 but it has the potential to limit satisfactory longer term performance. Sodium sulfate particles decreased in size as the cylinder rolled in the absence of cycling. It therefore appears possible that a heat storage design with balanced particle size influences will permit the theoretical quantity of heat to be stored and retrieved at a useful rate for a very large number of cycles.
Activity of 2',3'-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase in regions of rat brain during development: Quantitative relationship to myelin basic protein

— 2′,3′-Cyclic-nucleotide-3′-phosphodiesterase activity was examined in several regions of rat brain during development, namely optic nerve, olfactory bulb, cerebrum, cerebellum, midbrain, brain stem, and spinal cord. From 4 to 120 days the total activity increased in all regions, although the specific activity approached a constant value in adults. The developmental profile of the enzyme appeared to correlate with the onset of myelination and with the levels of myelin basic protein as well as the appearance of galactocerebroside sulfotransferase. A correlation coefficient of 0.91 was found between total basic protein, expressed as the per cent of the adult (120 day) value, and total enzyme activity over 12–42 days of age (P < 0.001) from six different brain regions as well as for whole brain. By increasing the sensitivity of the assay with the use of [3H-8]adenosine 2′,3′-cyclic monophosphate, we were able to detect activity at birth in both whole brain and spinal cord.
Ciassification of Artifacts in X-Ray Cr Images Due to Nonlinear Shadows

Polychromaticity and noise artifacts in computed x-ray tomography can be traced to a nonlinear dependence of projection data and its variance upon an ideal consistent set of projection data. We describe both types of artifacts and present mathematical models. A comparison is made between artifacts in the image i(r) of CT values and artifacts in the distribution ?2(r) of the noise variance. Three classification schemes for these nonlinear artifacts are presented: the physical origin of the artifacts (I), the geometrical appearance of the artifact (II), and the degree of consistency of the nonlinear shadow (III).
Fundamental inequalities and applications to neutral equations

Abstract Two fundamental inequalities are derived for neutral functional differential equations with stable D-operator. These inequalities provide some exponential estimates about the relation between solution operators and D-operators, an essential characterization of neutral functional differential equations, and an effective tool for the application of Liapunov's direct method and Razumikhin techniques to boundedness, stability, and convergence of solutions.
Patterns of male fecal incontinence

PURPOSE: This study sought to identify clinical and manometric characteristics of male fecal incontinence. METHOD: Clinical charts of 25 men with a chief complaint of fecal incontinence were retrospectively reviewed. Their anorectal physiology test results were compared with those from a group of 20 healthy men. RESULTS: Fourteen men (56 percent) were “leakers,” who complained of loss of liquid or solid stool smears that stained their underclothes. Eleven men (44 percent) had true incontinence, with loss of control over gas, liquid, and/or solid stool. Leakers had lower anal sphincter pressures than normal men (P<0.05) but higher pressures than incontinent men (P<0.05). In leakers the anal sphincter length at rest was longer than in incontinent (P<0.01) and normal men (P<0.05). All incontinent men had decreased manometric pressures, abnormal anorectal sensation or prolonged pudendal nerve terminal motor latencies, whereas only one-half of the leakers had physiologic abnormalities. Treatment using dietary manipulation, constipating agents or cleansing enemas was successful in nearly 90 percent of incontinent men but only 55 percent of the leakers. CONCLUSIONS: Whereas true incontinence in men is caused by a short, low pressure sphincter with altered sensation or innervation, leakage is associated with a long, intermediate pressure sphincter that frequently has normal sensation and innervation. This long, intermediate pressure sphincter may predispose these men to leakage. Treatment of leakers is less successful than treatment of incontinent men. Leakers and incontinent men have unique clinical and physiologic profiles that should be identified to help guide treatment and determine prognosis.
Char gasification in steam at 1123 K catalyzed by K, Na, Ca and Fe—effect of H2, H2S and COS

Abstract Gasification of unloaded and loaded Saran char was followed at 1123 K and 0.1 MPa total pressure in a N 2 or H 2 atmosphere to which ~ 3 kPa H 2 O and, in some cases, ~ 500 ppm H 2 S or COS were added. Potassium, Na and Ca are excellent catalysts for the gasification of Saran char by steam. Hydrogen inhibits catalysis by K, Na and Ca but promotes catalysis by Fe. The extent of the effect of H 2 S (or COS) on inhibiting char gasification by steam depends upon whether it is added to wet N 2 or wet H 2 . The inhibitory effect is much more marked in wet H 2 in all cases. Likewise, the time required to recover catalyst activity, following exposure to H 2 S or COS, is much greater in the presence of wet H 2 than in the presence of wet N 2 .
Characterization of elastomeric blends by atomic force microscopy

The bulk mechanical properties of a blend of elastomers are found to depend on the micro and nano scale morphology of the phases of the materials in the blend. In this study, we examine the phase morphology of blends of incompatible elastomers using Atomic Force Microscopy (ATM). Specifically, nanoindentation and Tapping Mode AFM (TMAFM) imaging techniques are used as experimental tools for mapping the composition of unfilled elastomeric blends. Depending on the composition of the blend, either co-continuous or discontinuous domain/matrix morphology is observed. To identify the different components in bromobutyl (BIIR)/natural rubber (NR) blends, nanoscale indentation measurements were made on the observed phase-separated regions. Results from force mode AFM and mechanical measurements of bulk NR and BIIR are used to assist in the interpretation of the TMAFM results for the BIIR/NR blends.
Olanzapine treatment for dopaminergic-induced hallucinations

Atypical antipsychotic medications with lower affinities for D2 receptors are considered useful alternatives to treat drug-induced hallucinations in Parkinson's disease (PD). We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, unforced titration, parallel design study (2:1 drug to placebo randomization ratio) using olanzapine (2.5-10 mg/day to effect) in 30 PD patients with drug-induced hallucinations. We performed an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), assessments of on and off time at baseline and at 9 weeks after starting the medication. Sixteen patients on olanzapine (mean dose, 4.6 mg/night) and 11 on placebo completed the study. Compared with placebo, performance on the UPDRS item 2 (thought disorder), and a structured interview for hallucinations, both tended to improve on drug but neither reached statistical significance. A neuropsychological test battery did not show any significant differences. Total on UPDRS motor scores (P < 0.05) and timed tapping (P < 0.01) worsened while on drug compared to placebo. Bradykinesia (P < 0.01) and gait (P < 0.001) items on the UPDRS largely accounted for this deterioration. After completion of the study, 8 of 16 patients randomly assigned to drug continued olanzapine at a mean dose of 2.4 mg/day. However, at the last recorded visit only 5 of 24 (20.8%) of all patients exposed to drug (including those originally randomly assigned to placebo) remained on olanzapine. In patients with PD, low-dose olanzapine did not significantly improve hallucinations but did worsen motor function.
The detection and treatment of cancer-related functional problems in an outpatient setting

Cancer causes functional problems that are often neither detected nor treated in the outpatient setting. Patient–physician communication regarding functional issues may contribute. This study was conducted to quantify the degree of concordance between patient-identified functional problems and their documentation in the oncology-generated medical record. We administered a 27-item questionnaire addressing cancer-related symptoms, signs, and functional problems to a consecutive sample of 244 patients undergoing outpatient cancer treatment. Oncology clinician-generated notation in the electronic medical record (EMR) was systematically reviewed for documentation of the instrument items. EMR review began the day of instrument completion and extended retrospectively for 6 months. Eighty-three percent (202) completed the survey with at least one cancer-related symptom, sign, or functional problem identified by 71.8%, 33.2% and 65.8% of patients, respectively. Difficulty with ambulation (23.9%) and balance (19.4%) were the most frequent functional problems. Clinician notes referred to 49% of patients’ symptoms, but only 37% of their signs and 6% of their functional problems. Pain, weight loss, and nausea (ORs > 4.9, p < 0.004) were most likely to be documented while functional problems (OR 0.2, p < 0.0001) were the least likely to be noted. Two rehabilitation physician referrals were generated for pain and limb swelling, but no functional problems were formally addressed. Functional problems are prevalent among outpatients with cancer and are rarely documented by oncology clinicians. A more aggressive search for, and treatment of, these problems may be beneficial for outpatients with cancer.
The Apical Actin Fringe Contributes to Localized Cell Wall Deposition and Polarized Growth in the Lily Pollen Tube

In lily (Lilium formosanum) pollen tubes, pectin, a major component of the cell wall, is delivered through regulated exocytosis. The targeted transport and secretion of the pectin-containing vesicles may be controlled by the cortical actin fringe at the pollen tube apex. Here, we address the role of the actin fringe using three different inhibitors of growth: brefeldin A, latrunculin B, and potassium cyanide. Brefeldin A blocks membrane trafficking and inhibits exocytosis in pollen tubes; it also leads to the degradation of the actin fringe and the formation of an aggregate of filamentous actin at the base of the clear zone. Latrunculin B, which depolymerizes filamentous actin, markedly slows growth but allows focused pectin deposition to continue. Of note, the locus of deposition shifts frequently and correlates with changes in the direction of growth. Finally, potassium cyanide, an electron transport chain inhibitor, briefly stops growth while causing the actin fringe to completely disappear. Pectin deposition continues but lacks focus, instead being delivered in a wide arc across the pollen tube tip. These data support a model in which the actin fringe contributes to the focused secretion of pectin to the apical cell wall and, thus, to the polarized growth of the pollen tube.
Studies on the redistribution reactions of some germanium compounds

Abstract Hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance was used to study the exchange of substituents on germanium in the systems Ge(SCH3)4 vs. GeZ4(Z = Cl, Br, I, or NCO) and Ge(OCH3)4 vs. Ge(SCH3)4. The exchange of methylthio and halogen groups was found to deviate considerably from the random case, with the mixed species being preferred. Equilibrium constants, larger than the random value, were observed for the exchange of methoxyl with methylthio groups on germanium. Since both exchanging groups in the methoxyl/methylthio system have proton containing groups, which give different 1H NMR chemical shifts, it was possible to obtain two sets for each sample, using either group as the basis of analysis.
Synaptic and extrasynaptic distribution of two distinct populations of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor clusters in the frog cardiac ganglion.

We examined the distribution of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor clusters in relation to synaptic sites on autonomic neurons in the frog heart using immunofluorescence techniques and laser scanning confocal microscopy. Acetylcholine receptor clusters were visualized using the rat anti-Electrophorus acetylcholine receptor monoclonal antibody no. 22 and cyanine 3.18-labelled goat anti-rat secondary antibody. Synaptic boutons were labelled with the mouse anti-synaptic vesicle protein SV2, monoclonal antibody no. 10h and cyanine 5.18-labelled goat anti-mouse secondary antibody. Acetylcholine receptor clusters on the neuronal surface exist in two populations that vary in size, staining intensity, and surface distribution. The more prominent population consists of large, brightly stained clusters numbering 30±15 per cell, while the second class is smaller and less brightly stained and numbers over 100 per cell. The large clusters tend to be organized into groups of 2–6 members. This arrangement results from the fact that 80% of the large clusters colocalize at synaptic boutons and that single boutons can have several associated clusters. The remaining 20% of large/bright acetylcholine receptor clusters are extrasynaptic, but they, too, are clustered and are found in close proximity to synaptic boutons. The small/dim acetylcholine receptor clusters are randomly distributed over the cell surface. The large/bright synaptic acetylcholine receptor clusters presumably underlie fast excitatory synaptic transmission. The small/dim clusters and the large/bright extrasynaptic clusters may represent intermediates in the metabolism of large/bright synaptic clusters.
Randomized Trial of Anger Control Training for Adolescents With Tourette's Syndrome and Disruptive Behavior

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a 10-session individually administered anger control training (ACT) for adolescents with Tourette’s syndrome (TS) and disruptive behavior. Method: Twenty-six subjects (24 boys and 2 girls; mean age 12.7 years, SD 0.88) with TS and high levels of disruptive behavior were randomly assigned to ACT or treatment-as-usual (TAU). The parent-rated Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale and the Clinical Global ImpressionYImprovement Scale rated by the independent evaluator were used as primary outcome measures. Results: All randomized subjects completed end-point evaluation, and all subjects in the ACT group completed 3-month follow-up evaluation. The Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale score decreased by 52% in the ACT group compared with a decrease of 11% in the TAU control group (p < .001). On the Clinical Global ImpressionYImprovement Scale, the independent evaluator rated 9 (69%) of 13 subjects in the ACT condition as much improved or very much improved compared with 2 (15%) of 13 in the TAU condition (p < .01). This reduction of disruptive behavior in the ACT group was well maintained at 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: Anger control training seems to reduce disruptive behavior in adolescents with TS. Larger trials are needed to confirm these results. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry, 2009;48(4):413Y421. Key Words: Tourette’s syndrome, anger, aggression, cognitive-behavior therapy, anger control training. Clinical trial registration informationVAnger Control Training for Youth With Tourette’s Syndrome. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00486551.
Memory functioning following a left medial thalamic hematoma

A patient with a discrete, left medial thalamic hematoma developed a severe anterograde amnesia. The memory deficit was most consistent for verbal materials, but was also observed on several tests of figural memory. The patient appeared to have a normal short-term memory (STM) capacity, performed normally on a STM distractor task and was not abnormally sensitive to proactive inhibition. This case is evidence that unilateral damage to the medial thalamus alone can produce a severe memory deficit.
Predictors of surgery-free outcome in adult endoscopic third ventriculostomy.

Objective Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is being used increasingly in adults as an alternative to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting. We analyze patient, radiographic, and operative factors associated with CSF diversion surgery-free outcomes after ETV. Methods One hundred twenty four consecutive adult patients (>18 years) treated with ETV at an academic institution were retrospectively reviewed according to demographic, clinical, operative, radiographic, and follow-up variables. After excluding patients with unclear etiologies or complex previous CSF shunting regimens, there remained 103 patients undergoing ETV for obstructive hydrocephalus, either as initial intervention or in the setting of shunt failure. The primary end point used to assess ETV failure was return to the operating room for CSF diversion. Return of radiographic findings consistent with uncompensated hydrocephalus was considered as a secondary end point. Associations with ETV failure were assessed via Cox proportionate-hazards regression analysis. Results Clinical improvement was seen in 76 (74%) patients within a median of one month after surgery. Radiographic improvement was seen in 59 (57%) patients within a median of two months after surgery. Fifty-seven (55%) of the patients remained symptom and surgery-free through last follow-up, a median of 5 [2-9] years after ETV. Lasting morbidity and mortality occurred in less than 1%. Multivariate, independent associations with ETV failure included perioperative steroid use, intraoperative image guidance, and time to radiographic improvement. Patients who had image-guided surgery or perioperative steroid treatment were approximately 2.5 times less likely to experience ETV failure. Conclusion ETV is a safe and effective procedure in adult patients. Perioperative factors, intraoperative image guidance, and steroid treatment may lower ETV failure rates.
The coming revolution in scientific computation

Most scientists with computer experience are surprised to learn that computers can perform such operations, because traditional programing languages used for scientific applications (such as ALGOL, APL, BASIC, FORTRAN, PASCAL and PL/I) do not provide such facilities. A few simple examples should help clarify the distinction. In traditional scientific pro~amming languages it is omissible to evaluate an expression such as
Structure of Avian Thymic Hormone, a High-affinity Avian β-parvalbumin, in the Ca2+-free and Ca2+-bound States

Originally isolated on the basis of its capacity to stimulate T-cell maturation and proliferation, avian thymic hormone (ATH) is nevertheless a parvalbumin, one of two beta-lineage isoforms expressed in birds. We recently learned that addition of Ca(2+)-free ATH to a solution of 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulfonate (ANS) markedly increases ANS emission. This behavior, not observed in the presence of Ca(2+), suggests that apolar surface area buried in the Ca(2+)-bound state becomes solvent accessible upon Ca(2+) removal. In order to elucidate the conformational alterations that accompany Ca(2+) binding, we have obtained the solution structure of the Ca(2+)-free protein using NMR spectroscopy and compared it to the Ca(2+)-loaded protein, solved by X-ray crystallography. Although the metal-ion-binding (CD-EF) domains are largely coincident in the superimposed structures, a major difference is observed in the AB domains. The tight association of helix B with the E and F helices in the Ca(2+)-bound state is lost upon removal of Ca(2+), producing a deep hydrophobic cavity. The B helix also undergoes substantial rotation, exposing the side chains of F24, Y26, F29, and F30 to solvent. Presumably, the increase in ANS emission observed in the presence of unliganded ATH reflects the interaction of these hydrophobic residues with the fluorescent probe. The increased solvent exposure of apolar surface area in the Ca(2+)-free protein is consistent with previously collected scanning calorimetry data, which indicated an unusually low change in heat capacity upon thermal denaturation. The Ca(2+)-free structure also provides added insight into the magnitude of ligation-linked conformational alteration compatible with a high-affinity metal-ion-binding signature. The exposure of substantial apolar surface area suggests the intriguing possibility that ATH could function as a reverse Ca(2+) sensor.
An analytic evaluation of a mathematical model for the effect of pulmonary surfactant on respiratory mechanics.

SUMMARY 1.A mathematical model for the transalveolar surfactant pressure developed elsewhere from a statement of conservation of mass, the laws of thermodynamics, and established physiologic phenomenon is discussed. 2.The pressure is a function of the volume history, and a set of constants and constitutes a major contribution of the transpulmonary pressure. 3.The model is tested on a digital computer and is shown to correlate well with experimental surface tension versus area data, quasi-static pressure versus volume results, and to predict a gradual decrease in compliance and increase in pressure with tidal ventilation and return to greater compliance and lower pressure values with a deep breath or sigh.
Atmosphere issues in detection of explosives and organic residues

This study makes a comparison of LIBS emission from molecular species in plasmas produced from organic residues on a non-metallic substrate by both a 5 ns Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) and a 40 fs Ti:Sapphire laser (800 nm) in air and argon atmospheres. The organic samples analyzed had varying amounts of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen in their molecular structure. The characterization was based on the atomic carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen lines as well as the diatomic species CN (B 2 Σ + - X 2 Σ + ) and the C 2 (d 3 Π g - a 3 Π u ). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to identify similarities of the organic analyte via the emission spectra. The corresponding Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curves show the limitations of the PCA model for the nanosecond regime in air.
The cat with neurological manifestations of systemic disease. Key conditions impacting on the CNS

Practical relevance A number of systemic diseases are associated with neurological deficits. Most systemic diseases that impact on the nervous system result in multifocal neurological signs; however, isolated deficits can also be observed. This article reviews the clinical signs, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of four important systemic diseases with neurological consequences: feline infectious peritonitis, toxoplasmosis, hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy.Clinical challenges Early recognition of systemic signs of illness in conjunction with neurological deficits will allow for prompt diagnosis and treatment. While neurological examination of the feline patient can undoubtedly be challenging, hopefully the accompanying articles in this special issue will enable the clinician to approach these cases with more confidence.Evidence base The veterinary literature contains numerous reports detailing the impact of systemic disease on the nervous system. Unfortunately, very few reference...