cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of phenoxy acids and their derivatives on the ionic permeability of bilayer lipid membranes

It has been found that the herbicide 2,4-0 has the ability to increase the rate of transport of positive ions of several kinds and inhibit the transport 6f negatively charged tetraphenylborate ions in lipid bilayer membranes. Only the neutral molecules of 2,4-0 are transport active. The ionized 2,4-0 molecules do not modify the transport of ions, and do not by themselves permeate through lipid membranes. The results suggest that the enhancement of transport of positively charged ions is dominated by the increase of the ion translocation rate constant. It has been shown that membrane transport of negatively charged tetraphenylborate ions is suppressed by 2,4-0. The effect is dominated by the suppression of translocation of these ions across membrane interior, rather than by the decrease of their adsorption at the membrane surface. It has been shown that the enhancement of nonactin-mediated transport of potassium ions by 2,4-0 can be accounted for by a simple carrier model. From the changes of kinetic parameters of nonactin-K+ transport, mem~rane conductance due to positively charged tetraphenylarsonium ions and also from the changes of membrane conductance and relaxation time constant due to transport of negatively charged tetraphenylborate ions, the changes of the electric potential of the membrane interior have been estimated. The potential of the membrane interior becomes more negative in the presence of 2,4-0 and its change is proportional to the aqueous concentration of 2,4-0. The effect of 2,4-0 on ion transport was explained by the hypothesis that a layer of 2,4-0 molecules is absorbed within the membrane/water interfacial region, and that the 2,4-0 molecules are
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Mucosal Defenses in the Lung

Commensal and opportunistic pathogens that populate the respiratory tract evolve within the host in response to the innate and adaptive immune clearance mechanisms. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunist, is not normally a component of the airway flora but is ubiquitous in the environment and especially common in health care-associated facilities (Crit Care Med 27:887–892, 1999; Chest 119:373S–384S, 2001). Although the focus of this review is not upon the pathogenesis of P. aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis (CF), there are substantial data examining host innate immune signaling in response to this organism in CF as compared to normal cells
Architecture for convegence mobile cooperation service using components integration

In this paper, we describe the AMS(Architecture for Mobile Service) methodology to guide the reflexive development of architectures from the mobile convergence software requirements. In particular, we are detailing the first step of this methodology, the definition of the convergence goals model whose constituents are the fundamental basis for the overall process defined in AMS proving its suitability for obtaining traceable components integration architectural models. It provides our work either to its ability to specify and manage positive and negative interactions mobile services among goals or to its capability to trace low-level details back to high-level concerns. AMS using components integration is a model informing an convergence architecture to design mobile service environments: it combines inference capabilities with the management of contextual components information that is modulated according to the strMobile Applications(MA)ture of physical and logical spaces of mobile service architectures.
Neurogenic Inflammation: TRP Ion Channels in the Lung

Transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels are a functionally diverse family of proteins. While thorough elucidation of the seemingly endless biological functions that can potentially be performed by, or at least effected by, TRP channels is far from a reality, accumulating experimental evidence for some TRP channels demonstrates vital contributions of select TRP channels to a number of critical physiological functions in select organ systems and cell types. In the respiratory tract, TRP channel expression is highly variable, depending upon anatomical location (i.e., nasal, tracheal, bronchiole/bronchiolar, terminal/alveolar) and cell type (i.e., neuronal, epithelial, endothelial, resident immune, etc.), with high abundance of TRP channels in sensory neurons and some epithelial and endothelial cell types. The focus of this article is on TRP channels in the lung and mechanisms by which select TRP channels contribute to reflex responses, pulmonary inflammation, and injury commonly associated with exposure to a variety of exogenous and endogenous pneumotoxic agents. Both neurogenic (classical) and nonneurogenic (novel) mechanisms by which TRP channels influence respiratory physiology and pulmonary homeostasis will be covered since recent evidence strongly suggests that TRP channels expressed by nonneuronal cells may play equally vital roles in mounting and controlling various phases of inflammatory responses and injury associated with certain stimuli. The article reviews basic immunology and how select components of the immune response act in concert in the respiratory tract, the expression and basic pharmacology of TRP channels, mechanisms by which different TRP channels regulate select components of innate immunity, and specific examples of TRP channel-mediated pneumotoxicity elicited by xenobiotics and a variety of endogenous proinflammatory agents.
Intramural Abscess Causing Obstruction at a Previous Jejunal Enterotomy Site in a Dog

ABSTRACTThis case report documents a novel late surgical complication in a 2 yr old dog following an enterotomy to remove a jejunal foreign body. Twenty-six days following the original surgery, the dog was re-presented with signs consistent with an intestinal obstruction. A mural intestinal abscess was found as the cause of the obstruction during exploratory surgery, and the site was successfully removed with a resection and anastomosis. Histopathology showed multifocal abscessation with cyst-like structures partially lined with mucosa. The dog recovered without complication and remains healthy 4 mo later. The exact cause of the lesion is not known; however, local contamination through a focal mucosal defect or complications related to the use of barbed suture in the original enterotomy repair may have contributed.
High concentrations of flavor chemicals are present in electronic cigarette refill fluids

We characterized the flavor chemicals in a broad sample of commercially available electronic cigarette (EC) refill fluids that were purchased in four different countries. Flavor chemicals in 277 refill fluids were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and two commonly used flavor chemicals were tested for cytotoxicity with the MTT assay using human lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells. About 85% of the refill fluids had total flavor concentrations >1 mg/ml, and 37% were >10 mg/ml (1% by weight). Of the 155 flavor chemicals identified in the 277 refill fluids, 50 were present at ≥1 mg/ml in at least one sample and 11 were ≥10 mg/ml in 54 of the refill fluids. Sixty-one% (170 out of 277) of the samples contained nicotine, and of these, 56% had a total flavor chemical/nicotine ratio >2. Four chemicals were present in 50% (menthol, triacetin, and cinnamaldehyde) to 80% (ethyl maltol) of the samples. Some products had concentrations of menthol (“Menthol Arctic”) and ethyl maltol (“No. 64”) that were 30 times (menthol) and 100 times (ethyl maltol) their cytotoxic concentration. One refill fluid contained cinnamaldehyde at ~34% (343 mg/ml), more than 100,000 times its cytotoxic level. High concentrations of some flavor chemicals in EC refill fluids are potentially harmful to users, and continued absence of any regulations regarding flavor chemicals in EC fluids will likely be detrimental to human health.
Identification of the designer steroid Androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione in a dietary supplement.

A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) screen for known anabolic-androgenic steroids in a dietary supplement product marketed for "performance enhancement" detected an unknown compound having steroid-like spectral characteristics. The compound was isolated using high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) coupled with an analytical scale fraction collector. After the compound was isolated, it was then characterized using gas chromatography with simultaneous Fourier Transform infrared detection and mass spectrometry (GC-FT-IR-MS), liquid chromatography-high resolution accurate mass-mass spectrometry (LC-HRAM-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The steroid had an accurate mass of m/z 285.1847 (error-0.57 ppm) for the protonated species [M + H]+ , corresponding to a molecular formula of C19 H24 O2 . Based on the GC-FT-IR-MS data, NMR data, and accurate mass, the compound was identified as androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione. Although this is not the first reported identification of this designer steroid in a dietary supplement, the data provided adds information for identification of this compound not previously reported. This compound was subsequently detected in another dietary supplement product, which contained three additional active ingredients.
Relativistic Fluid Dynamics In and Out of Equilibrium: And Applications to Relativistic Nuclear Collisions

The past decade has seen unprecedented developments in the understanding of relativistic fluid dynamics in and out of equilibrium, with connections to astrophysics, cosmology, string theory, quantum information, nuclear physics and condensed matter physics. Romatschke and Romatschke offer a powerful new framework for fluid dynamics, exploring its connections to kinetic theory, gauge/gravity duality and thermal quantum field theory. Numerical algorithms to solve the equations of motion of relativistic dissipative fluid dynamics as well as applications to various systems are discussed. In particular, the book contains a comprehensive review of the theory background necessary to apply fluid dynamics to simulate relativistic nuclear collisions, including comparisons of fluid simulation results to experimental data for relativistic lead-lead, proton-lead and proton-proton collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The book is an excellent resource for students and researchers working in nuclear physics, astrophysics, cosmology, quantum many-body systems and string theory.
The Relationship Between Cumulative Exogenous Corticosteroid Exposure and Volumes of Hippocampal Subfields and Surrounding Structures.

Purpose/background Glucocorticoids are a class of hormones that include naturally occurring cortisol and corticosterone, as well as prescription drugs commonly used to manage inflammatory, autoimmune, and allergic conditions. Adverse effects, including neuropsychiatric symptoms, are common. The hippocampus appears to be especially sensitive to the effects of glucocorticoids. However, to our knowledge, no studies to date have examined hippocampal subfields in humans receiving glucocorticoids. We examined patients on chronic glucocorticoid regimens to determine relationships between dose and duration of treatment, and hippocampal subfields, and related regions volumes. Methods/procedures The study included adult men and women receiving at least 5 mg daily of prednisone equivalents for at least 6 months. Volumes of brain regions were measured via magnetic resonance imaging. A multivariate general linear model was used for analysis, with brain volumes as dependent variables and age, sex, and cumulative corticosteroid exposure, as predictors. Findings/results The study population consisted of 81 adult outpatients (43 male) on corticosteroids (mean dose, 7.88 mg; mean duration, 76.75 months). Cumulative glucocorticoid exposure was negatively associated with left and right hippocampal dentate gyrus/CA3 volume. In subsequent subgroup analysis, this association held true for the age group older than the median age of 46 years but not for the younger age group. Implications/conclusions This finding is consistent with previous studies showing detrimental effects of elevated glucocorticoids on the hippocampus but further suggests that the dentate gyrus and CA3 regions are particularly vulnerable to those effects, which is consistent with animal models of chronic stress but has not been previously demonstrated in humans.
From B2C to B2B to A2A: A Translation Perspective on Theory Development

As a means to advance theory building in the field of marketing, we employ the translation approach to depict the theorizing process. We exemplify the usefulness of this approach by tracing the translations that produced the B2C, B2B, and A2A designations, which emerged in interaction with the long established goods-dominant (G-D) logic, and the growing perspective of service-dominant (S-D) logic. In particular, we identify key translation points that, over time, may have influenced the subsequent direction of theory building in marketing and pinpoint potential areas in which established theories may be problematized. Through this analysis, we highlight the importance of re-tracing the development of theoretical assumptions that have long gone unchallenged to generate new theories that may redirect theorizing efforts in a more useful direction.
Outcome of the surgical decompression for traumatic optic neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

There exists a persisting controversy regarding the indications for optic nerve surgical decompression (ONSD) in traumatic optic neuropathy (TON). A meta-analysis is warranted to help guiding therapeutic decisions and address gaps in knowledge. The authors conducted a search of PubMed and MEDLINE electronic databases. Primary endpoint was the improvement in the visual function with ONSD in comparison with the conservative management. Secondary endpoint was visual function improvement when surgery was performed within the first 7 days. A random effects model meta-analysis was conducted. Data from each study were used to generate log odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals, to compare post-operative visual improvement. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for analysis, comprising 766 patients. Visual improvement occurred in 55% (198/360) of patients treated with ONSD, and in 40% (164/406) of those who underwent conservative treatment. Forest plot revealed significant differences in the visual function improvement among these two groups, although further analysis revealed the studies were heterogeneous (log OR, 0.81; CI, 0.07–1.55; I2, 62.8% p = 0.015). Overall, patients who underwent early surgery had better visual outcomes (log OR, 0.94; CI, 0.29–1.60; I2, 0% p = 0.9). ONSD is an effective technique to improve the outcome in the visual function in patients with TON. A lack of randomized controlled trial—and inherent surgical selection and publication bias—limits direct comparison between surgical decompression and conservative management. Suitably designed prospective cohort studies may be useful in identifying patients more likely to receive benefit from ONSD.
Corrigendum: Conflicting information from the Food and Drug Administration: Missed opportunity to lead standards for safe and effective medical artificial intelligence solutions.

The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is considering the permanent exemption of premarket notification requirements for several Class I and II medical device products, including several artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven devices. The exemption is based on the need to rapidly more quickly disseminate devices to the public, estimated cost-savings, a lack of documented adverse events reported to the FDA's database. However, this ignores emerging issues related to AI-based devices, including utility, reproducibility and bias that may not only affect an individual but entire populations. We urge the FDA to reinforce the messaging on safety and effectiveness regulations of AI-based Software as a Medical Device products to better promote fair AI-driven clinical decision tools and for preventing harm to the patients we serve.
Case Report: Reversal of Integrase Inhibitor- and Tenofovir Alafenamide-Related Weight Gain After Switching Back to Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir DF

We report a case of substantial weight gain in a virologically suppressed patient with HIV after changing his antiretroviral therapy from efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF to elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide with subsequent rapid weight loss upon switching back. The role of antiretrovirals in weight gain and loss and patient- and HIV-specific factors are discussed.
Relapse Sequela is Not Rare in Aggressive Forms of Relapsing MS Throughout the First Decade of Disease (P1.110)

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to show that relapse sequela is frequently seen in aggressive forms of MS throughout the first decade of disease. BACKGROUND: We previously defined a group of patients with aggressive MS (AMS) within two large longitudinally studied independent datasets. The contribution of sequela from relapses has not been characterized in the context of patients with relatively AMS. DESIGN/METHODS: We retrospectively examined the presence of relapse sequela in 176 longitudinally studied, consecutively seen patients at the Allegheny MS Treatment Center and meeting our definition for AMS. We examined relapse activity and disability in the first two five-year epochs of disease duration. We used previously defined phenotypes: no worsening due to relapse or secondary progression (type A), relapse with worsening seen without secondary progression (type B), secondary progression with or without relapse but no worsening due to relapse (type C), worsening due to relapses mixed with worsening due to secondary progression (type D). A standard definition for relapse sequela was used (relating to change in EDSS score). Patients with less severe relapsing MS were also studied for relapse sequela. RESULTS: Many patients meeting our definition for AMS worsened in a stepwise fashion related to sequela from relapse as determined by EDSS score changes measured. In Epoch 1 there were 1/12 (8.3[percnt]) patients with AMS and type A; 23/107(21.5[percnt]) with type B; 7/28(25[percnt]) with type C and 8/28(28.6[percnt]) with type D, p = 0.06, ηp2 = 0.42. In epoch 2 14/92(15.2[percnt]) patients had type A; 10/25(40.0[percnt]) were characterized as type B; 9/52(17.3[percnt]) with type C; and 6/7 (85.7[percnt]) with type D, p <0.001, ηp2 = 0.42. CONCLUSIONS: Relapse sequela seem to account for a significant proportion of worsening disability in our patients with AMS. Disclosure: Dr. Hackett has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gettings has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schramke has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ramanathan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Scott has received personal compensation for activities with Acorda Therapeutics, Biogen Idec, Genzyme Corporation, Novartis, and Teva Neuroscience as a consultant and/or speaker.
Signal-to-Noise Considerations in Fluctuation Analysis Spectroscopic Techniques

It is possible to determine fluorescence lifetimes from the frequency response of a fluorophore as well as from its time response. Various schemes for measuring such a response curve are illustrated and include the use of sources whose intensity is modulated at single, swept frequencies, at several frequencies simultaneously, or over a broad, continuous band of frequencies. Detection methods that are considered include a single broad-frequency-response device, one that is swept, and anotherthat hops from one modulated frequency to another. Signal-to-noise (S/N) expressions are derived for each combination of source and detector and conclusions are drawn from comparison of the S/N expressions. From these considerations and the availability of existing sources for use in time-resolved fluorometry, the most attractive approaches employ a source modulated at several frequencies simultaneously, each of which is monitored by its own tuned detector, or a sinusoidally modulated source that is swept synchronously with a tuned detector.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Specialised Reactions

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technique that rapidly amplifies selected subsets of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or complementary DNA (cDNA) from initially complex biological mixtures. The efficiency of amplification or sequence of the amplified material can then be examined for any of many purposes, including genotyping or the characterisation of new genes, gene expression patterns, mutations or polymorphisms. Quantitative-PCR (QT-PCR) has become practical and popular over the past decade with the generation of libraries of individual primer sets and arrayed sets of primers by commercial entities. QT-PCR machines can assay up to 384 samples at once, permitting the complete analysis of expression of families of genes, such as signalling kinases or cytokines, in a single experiment. RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends)-PCR has also become popular to identify microRNAs (ribonucleic acid). PCR is highly useful in structural biology to rapidly modify the boundaries of protein domains intended for crystallisation. Key Concepts: PCR can be conducted on vanishingly small amounts of material. PCR can be used for rapid genotyping or sequencing. PCR is useful for quantitative analysis of gene expression of entire gene families or signalling networks in arrayed assays. PCR is frequently the method of choice for genetic engineering involving mutations, truncations or extensions of existing genes. Keywords: RACE-PCR; RT-PCR; molecular biology; polymorphisms; genotyping
Caching values in the load store queue

The latency of an L1 data cache continues to grow with increasing clock frequency, cache size and associativity. The increased latency is an important source of performance loss in high-performance processors. The paper proposes to cache data utilizing the load store queue (LSQ) hardware and data paths. Using very little additional hardware, this inexpensive cache improves performance and reduces energy consumption. The modified load store queue "caches" all previously accessed data values going beyond existing store-to-load forwarding techniques. Both load and store data are placed in the LSQ and are retained there after a corresponding memory access instruction has been committed. It is shown that a 128-entry modified LSQ design allows an average of 51% of all loads in the SPECint2000 benchmarks to get their data from the LSQ. Up to 7% performance improvement is achieved on SPECint2000 with a 1-cycle LSQ access latency and 3-cycle L1 cache latency. The average speedup is over 4%.
ADMINISTRATIVE LAW—NAVARRO V. PFIZER CORPORATION: TOO MUCH DISREGARD AND TOO LITTLE DEFERENCE IN DEFINING "DISABILITY" UNDER THE FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT

This Note is brought to you for free and open access by the Law Review & Student Publications at Digital Commons @ Western New England University School of Law. It has been accepted for inclusion in Western New England Law Review by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ Western New England University School of Law. For more information, please contact pnewcombe@law.wne.edu. Recommended Citation
Adolescent pregnancy: The Jackson, Mississippi, experience☆

Abstract An adolescent pregnancy center combining the educational, medical, and social needs was operational in Jackson, Mississippi, from September, 1971, to July, 1976. Administrative responsibilities were shared by the University of Mississippi and the Jackson Separate School District. From 1971 to 1975, 763 students were enrolled. The mean age was 16 and ages ranged from 11 to 18 years. Ninety-nine per cent were black and a majority were poor and from a single-parent home. There was a 78 per cent school retention rate, but the center did not reduce dependence upon welfare assistance. When center, noncenter, faculty, and unregistered patients were compared, no difference could be detected in the incidence of medical complications, low birth weight, hypertension, and hematocrit. When compared for age only hypertension and difficult deliveries appeared to be age related.
Simulation and Analysis of Stress in a Li-Ion Battery with a Blended LiMn 2 O 4 and LiNi 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 Cathode

Abstract Stress generation due to Li ion insertion into/extraction from LiMn 2 O 4 particles is studied with a mathematical model for a lithium ion battery with pure LiMn 2 O 4 or mixed LiMn 2 O 4 and LiNi 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 cathode. The simulated stress profile in a pure LiMn 2 O 4 electrode shows nonuniformity across the positive electrode. The cathode blended model predicts that the stress generated in the LiMn 2 O 4 particles is reduced at the end of discharge due to adding LiNi 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 to the cathode. The effect of the variation in the blend ratio on the stress generation is also investigated.
NAVIGATING HOMELESSNESS AND NAVIGATING ABUSE: HOW HOMELESS MOTHERS FIND TRANSITIONAL HOUSING WHILE MANAGING INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE

Impoverished women who leave an abusive partner often become homeless, and many homeless women have been abused, yet these groups are frequently studied as distinctly different populations. A total of 15 current and former female participants in a transitional living program (TLP) were interviewed about how they became homeless, where they lived while homeless, the abuse and other challenges they faced, and how they handled those challenges. All participants were homeless with at least one child, and all experienced homeless while trying to end abuse. Using grounded theory to analyze the interviews, a 3-stage process of moving into their own apartment in a TLP was delineated: precarious housing, searching for help, and making systems work. The influence of abuse on the rehousing process and considerations for researchers and service providers are discussed.
Molecular and immunochemical characterization of recombinant Escherichia coli containing the spaA gene region of Streptococcus sobrinus.

Abstract We identified and characterized a recombinant Escherichia coli containing the entire gene for surface protein antigen A (spaA) of Streptococcus sobrinus 6715. The recombinant E. coli was isolated from a cosmid gene bank of size-fractionated S. sobrinus DNA fragments, and recombinants expressing the SpaA protein were detected immunologically. Subcloning experiments showed that the DNA sequences encoding the SpaA protein could be isolated on two contiguous EcoRI fragments, 3.7 and 3.3 kilobases (kb) in size, both contained on a 16.2-kb BglII fragment. Southern blot hybridization experiments using the EcoRI fragments to probe genomic DNAs from various serotypes of the mutans group of streptococci revealed DNA sequence homology not only to S. sobrinus 6715 (serotype g) chromosomal DNA but also to S. sobrinus serotype d DNA. Weak hybridization signals to Streptococcus mutans serotypes c, e, and f and to Streptococcus cricetus serotype a were observed with the 3.3-kb EcoRI fragment. These results suggest that the coding sequence for the spaA gene is probably conserved in S. sobrinus strains. Plasmid-encoded polypeptides made in E. coli minicells revealed that transcription of the spaA gene was initiated on the 3.7-kb EcoRI fragment and that its product size was about 210 kilodaltons. The cloned SpaA protein was purified from the periplasmic protein of E. coli, and monospecific antiserum against the cloned product was prepared in rabbits. The data obtained from various physiochemical and immunological procedures allowed us to conclude that the coding sequence for the entire spaA gene of S. sobrinus 6715 had been successfully cloned in E. coli and that faithful expression of the cloned product could be obtained.
Molecular mechanisms of squamous differentiation in urothelial cell carcinoma: a paradigm for molecular subtyping of urothelial cell carcinoma of the bladder.

Abstract Background Recent molecular characterization studies focusing on bladder cancer have provided a wealth of information, including the identification of specific molecular subtypes of this disease. Interestingly, a particular molecular subtype identified by several different groups is characterized, at least in part, by the presence of squamous differentiation (SqD) in a significant fraction of primary tumors. Tumors that exhibit SqD are extremely aggressive. Moreover, conflicting reports exist relative to the sensitivity of bladder tumors exhibiting SqD to multimodal treatment. Bladder cancers that exhibit SqD appear to be distinct clinical entities and are often associated with a specific molecular subtype; therefore, it is important to understand the molecular drivers of this process. Purpose Because presence of SqD is closely associated with a basal molecular phenotype, we review the evidence for specific pathways in SqD. In addition, we pose key areas for future exploration.
Patterns of Water and Solute Regulation in the Muscle Fibres of Osmoconforming Marine Decapod Crustaceans

1.The patterns of myoplasmic water and solute regulation were examined in several species of marine decapod crustaceans acclimated to various salinities.Three osmoconformers (Callianassa cahformemsis, Cancer antennarius, Emerita analoga) and one weak osmoregulator (Pachygrapsus crassipes) were studied. 2.Although haemolymph water and solute activities varied with adaptational salinity in these species, regulation of cell water content was apparent in all but 25 % s.w. acclimated Pachygrapsus. Cell water regulation was correlated with the regulation of ninhydrin-positive solutes. An estimate of the extent of the regulation was achieved by comparing the observed cell hydration changes to that predicted for an ideal osmometer and to that of a perfect volume regulator. It was concluded that the extent of cell volume regulation was variable and incomplete, particularly in dilute salinities. 3.Net losses of myoplasmic sodium, chloride, and ninhydrin-positive nitrogen were observed in animals acclimated to dilute sea water, while net gains of these solutes were noted in crabs acclimated to concentrated sea water. In contrast, the amounts of cell potassium and calcium plus magnesium were relatively constant fractions of the cell dry weight at any salinity. 4.A simple mechanism, br.sed upon Donnan considerations, is sufficient to account for the constancy of myoplasmic potassium and the variability of cell chloride with changing extracellular osmolarity.
Representation of arbitrary shapes using implicit quadrics

This paper is concerned with free-form surface constructions using implicit quadrics. More specifically, we are interested in the following problem: given a polyhedron with triangular facets and tangent planes prescribed at its vertices, fit a smooth (tangent-plane continuous), implicit, and piecewise quadric surface through the vertices of the polyhedron so that the surface is tangent to the prescribed tangent plane at each vertex. We show that in order to solve this problem without splitting the facets of the polyhedron, the prescribed tangent planes must satisfy a condition, and under this condition we give a local scheme for constructing the smooth piecewise quadric surface. Using this scheme, we can represent arbitrary shapes by quadric primitives. The implementation results are reported.
Nonparametric Bayes error estimation for HRR target identification

A neural network approach to obtaining upper and lower bounds on the Bayes error rate for pattern recognition problems is presented. The approach is developed using the key concept of resubstitution and leave-one-out testing from conventional nonparametric error estimation techniques. The neural network approach is evaluated by applying it to several 8D, two-class `toy' problems, where the Bayes error rate is known. The neural network error estimate for a high-dimensional problem with an unknown Bayes error rate is also compared to error estimates obtained using conventional nonparametric estimation techniques. Using the neural network procedure, the upper bound of the Bayes error rate is reliably found for problems with complex decision boundary surfaces. Alternative testing approaches are suggested for reducing the difference between the bounds and the true Bayes rate.
Ten-Year Results of a Comparison of Conservation with Mastectomy in the Treatment of Stage I and II Breast Cancer

Background Breast-conservation therapy for early-stage breast cancer is now an accepted treatment, but there is still controversy about its comparability with mastectomy. Between 1979 and 1987, the National Cancer Institute conducted a randomized, single-institution trial comparing lumpectomy, axillary dissection, and radiation with mastectomy and axillary dissection for stage I and II breast cancer. We update the results of that trial after a median potential follow-up of 10.1 years. Methods Two hundred forty-seven patients with clinical stage I and II breast cancer were randomly assigned to undergo either modified radical mastectomy or lumpectomy, axillary dissection, and radiation therapy. The 237 patients who actually underwent randomization have been followed for a median of 10.1 years. The primary end points were overall survival and disease-free survival. Results At 10 years overall survival was 75 percent for the patients assigned to mastectomy and 77 percent for those assigned to lumpectomy plus ...
In vivo response to cross-linked polyethylene and polycarbonate-urethane particles

This study was undertaken to examine macrophage response to polycarbonate-urethane, a proposed alternative material to polyethylene in acetabular components of total hip arthroplasty. Polyethylene wear debris from total joint replacements has been linked to osteolysis and implant lifespan. It has been shown in vitro, that polyethylene particles cleaned of endotoxin generate less of an inflammatory cytokine response than endotoxin bound particles. Comparative particle induced effects on implant fixation were tested using endotoxin free cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (x-UHMWPE) and polycarbonate-urethane (PCU) particles with and without intraperitoneal injection (IP) of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) using a Ti-alloy femoral intramedullary nail rat model. MicroCT and mechanical testing assessment of peri-implant bone indicated significantly less bone and lower fixation strength, respectively, when the implant was surrounded by xUHMWPE particles compared to PCU particles (with and without LPS IP). This indicates particles of PCU may be less disruptive to bone-implant fixation than x-UHMWPE in vivo, under both LPS free and challenged conditions.
Interaction issues in context-aware intelligent environments

Context-aware intelligent environments are computing systems embedded within physical spaces. They are equipped with input and output computing devices for users and sensors to provide contextual information to the system. These environments provide new challenges to interface designers due to a number of differences from typical desktop computing environments, including the lack of a single focal point for the user, a dynamic set of interaction devices, the sensor-rich nature of the environment, the potential of multiple simultaneous users, and the opportunity for diverse interaction modalities. This essay describes these challenges and focuses on issues involving multiple interaction modalities and automatic system behaviors.
A Two-Wave Longitudinal Study of Career Calling Among Undergraduates Testing for Predictors

This two-wave longitudinal study investigated the reciprocal relations between five possible predictors of career calling (presence of life meaning, search for life meaning, career decision self-ef...
Testate rhizopod growth and mineral deposition on experimental substrates from Cross Seamount

Abstract We present the results of an experiment on Cross Seamount (18°40′N, 158°17′W) in which basalt, ferromanganese-oxide and CaCO 3 substrates were deployed for 19 months. An experimental block design, of identical sets of well-characterized substrates arranged on three distinct panels, was used. Alterations resulting from exposure at 800 m water depth were documented by analytical Scanning Electron Microscopy. Agglutinated rhizopods and irregularly shaped chambers occupied an average of 37% of the basalt surfaces, and 13 and 20% of the ferromanganese-oxide and CaCO 3 substrates, respectively. This coverage is high, relative to that observed on dredged ferromanganese nodules and crusts. High coverage can be attributed to the low abundance of other agglutinated and calcareous foraminifera. Metal-rich deposits composed of BaS, AlSi, Mn and Fe were common on substrate surfaces. Barite (BaS) particles, which originated in the water column, were observed attached to the substrate by agglutinated foraminiferal tests. Fe-enriched AlSi deposits were often adhered to the substrate. These deposits appeared to have been produced by benthic rhizopods, and may persist on the seafloor over time. Fe-coated bacteria-like colonies were numerically scarce, but covered large areas. Mn-oxide precipitates, also bacteria-like, were numerically abundant on ferromanganese-oxide substrates, but never observed on other substrates. The occurrence and morphological features of these Fe- and Mn-oxide coatings reinforce the idea that bacteria play an important role in the accretion of ferromanganese-oxides on the seafloor.
Measurement of Erythrocyte Methotrexate Polyglutamate Levels: Ready for Clinical Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most commonly prescribed and most effective drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Given the partial response of many patients and the side effect profile of the drug, there is considerable interest in identifying biomarkers to guide MTX therapy in RA. Upon entering cells, MTX is polyglutamated. Measuring MTX polyglutamate (MTX PG) levels in circulating red blood cells has been proposed as an objective measure to help optimize MTX therapy in RA. Data are conflicting with regard to the clinical utility of MTX PG measurements as a predictor of the efficacy or toxicity of low-dose MTX effects in RA. Should large, randomized clinical trials of this assay show consistent, reproducible, long-term correlations between MTX PG levels and efficacy or toxicity, this test could become a prominent tool for clinicians to optimize the use of MTX in treating RA.
RNA-seq reveals cooperative metabolic interactions between two termite-gut spirochete species in co-culture

The hindguts of wood-feeding termites typically contain hundreds of microbial species. Together with their insect host, these gut microbes degrade lignocellulose into usable catabolites. Although past research revealed many facets of the stepwise flow of metabolites in this scheme, not much is known about the breadth of interactions occurring between termite-gut microbes. Most of these microbes are thought to depend on, and to have co-speciated with, their host and each other for millions of years. In this study, we explored the interactions of two spirochetes previously isolated from the very same termite species. As hydrogen (H2) is the central free intermediate in termite-gut lignocellulose digestion, we focused on interactions between two closely related termite-gut spirochetes possessing complementary H2 physiologies: one produces H2, while the other consumes it. In vitro, these two Treponema species markedly enhanced each other's growth. RNA sequencing resolved the transcriptomes of these two closely related organisms, revealing that co-cultivation causes comprehensive changes in global gene expression. The expression of well over a 100 genes in each species was changed >twofold, with over a dozen changed >10-fold. Several changes implicating synergistic cross-feeding of known metabolites were validated in vitro. Additionally, certain activities beneficial to the host were preferentially expressed during consortial growth. However, the majority of changes in gene expression are not yet understandable, but indicate a broad, comprehensive and mutualistic interaction between these closely related, co-resident gut symbionts. The results suggest that staggeringly intricate networks of metabolic and gene interactions drive lignocellulose degradation and co-evolution of termite gut microbiota.
Exoenzyme accumulation in epilithic biofilms

Although exoenzyme accumulation is often proposed as an explanation for the high metabolic activity of biofilms, little is known about the abundance, distribution and turnover rates of exoenzymes within these communities. To assess accumulation, epilithic biofilm samples were collected from a fourth-order boreal river and homogenized. The resulting particles were fractionated by size and each fraction was assayed for nine exoenzyme activities, chlorophyll, and ATP. In general, carbohydrase activities were not correlated with microbial biomass indicators; the largest pool of activity was in the aqueous phase (< 0.2 µm). Phenol oxidase, peroxidase, and phosphatase activities were largely particle-bound and often correlated with microbial biomass distribution. It was concluded that the epilithic biofilm matrix was effective at accumulating carbohydrase activity and that this accumulation may partially account for the metabolic resistance of epilithic biofilms to dissolved organic matter fluctuations.
Regular soda policies, school availability, and high school student consumption.

Background Beginning in the 2014–2015 school year, all U.S. schools participating in federally reimbursable meal programs are required to implement new nutrition standards for items sold in competitive venues. Multilevel mediation modeling examining direct, mediated, and indirect pathways between policy, availability, and student consumption might provide insight into possible outcomes of implementing aspects of the new standards. Purpose To employ multilevel mediation modeling using state- and school district–level policies mandating school soda bans, school soda availability, and student soda consumption. Methods The 2010–2012 Monitoring the Future surveys obtained nationally representative data on high school student soda consumption; school administrators provided school soda availability data. State laws and district policies were compiled and coded. Analyses conducted in 2014 controlled for state-, school-, and student-level characteristics. Results State–district–school models found that state bans were associated with significantly lower school soda availability ( c , p a , p a ⁎ b , p Conclusions These analyses indicate state policy focused on regular soda strongly affected school soda availability, and worked through changes in school availability to decrease soda consumption among African American students, but not the overall population.
Identification and estimation in econometric systems: A survey

This is an introductory survey of some of the ideas and methods in the identification and estimation of simultaneous equation systems in econometrics. After pointing out the special features of econometric systems, it defines the problem of identification and presents several methods for estimating the parameters in such systems. Hopefully such a survey will be useful to research workers in related fields including control engineering and statistics who are interested in the estimation of dynamic systems and wish to find out whether the works of econometricians are relevant to their own research. This is not a substitute for a treatise in econometrics, but it may help a researcher in a related field decide whether the techniques developed for dynamic econometric systems are useful for his purpose, whether he should study them in depth, and whether he can contribute to improving them. Some research topics will be suggested later in our discussion.
Evidence that local non-NMDA receptors contribute to functional deficits in contusive spinal cord injury.

Abstract To investigate the role of non -N- methyl- d -aspartate (non-NMDA) types of excitatory amino acid (EAA) receptors in traumatic spinal cord injury, we administered 2,3-dihydroxy-6-nitro-7-sulfamoyl-benzo(F)-quinoxaline (NBQX), a potent and specific antagonist of non-NMDA receptors, to rats with a standardized contusive spinal cord injury. Focal infusion of NBQX into the injury site significantly reduced long-term hindlimb functional deficits as well as decreasing the time required for the rats to establish a reflex bladder. The results suggest that non-NMDA receptors at or near the injury site are involved in producing a portion of the functional deficits that result from contusive spinal cord injury.
AGU 2007–2008 Congressional Science Fellow

Alex Apotsos has been selected as AGU's 2007–2008 Congressional Science Fellow. Apotsos, who completed his Ph.D. in applied ocean science and engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Woods Hole, Mass., in May 2007, will be working in the office of U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) on a variety of science, engineering, and technology issues. His placement followed an in-depth orientation and interview process. In September, Apotsos joined the ranks of more than 30 other congressional science fellows from other organizations for a 2-week orientation at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) headquarters in Washington, D.C. After the orientation session, the fellows underwent a lengthy interview process to determine their placement with various congressional and committee offices.
Concerted complex assembly and GTPase activation in the chloroplast signal recognition particle.

The universally conserved signal recognition particle (SRP) and SRP receptor (SR) mediate the cotranslational targeting of proteins to cellular membranes. In contrast, a unique chloroplast SRP in green plants is primarily dedicated to the post-translational targeting of light harvesting chlorophyll a/b binding (LHC) proteins. In both pathways, dimerization and activation between the SRP and SR GTPases mediate the delivery of cargo; whether and how the GTPase cycle in each system adapts to its distinct substrate proteins were unclear. Here, we show that interactions at the active site essential for GTPase activation in the chloroplast SRP and SR play key roles in the assembly of the GTPase complex. In contrast to their cytosolic homologues, GTPase activation in the chloroplast SRP–SR complex contributes marginally to the targeting of LHC proteins. These results demonstrate that complex assembly and GTPase activation are highly coupled in the chloroplast SRP and SR and suggest that the chloroplast GTPases may forego the GTPase activation step as a key regulatory point. These features may reflect adaptations of the chloroplast SRP to the delivery of their unique substrate protein.
Use of profile analysis for the measurement of organ dimensions

We have developed a method for measurement of organ dimesnion based on the use of the full width half maximum (FWHM) of profiles taken through an organ. In vitro studies were performed using a large rectangular lucite box filled with water. Five circular lucite phantoms with internal diameters of 1.4–10.2 cm and 1 elliptical phantom with dimensions 9.6x4.0 cm were filled with 99mTc-pertechnetate at various concentrations. Phantoms were imaged on a gamma camera at a depth of 5–25 cm in water and the FWHM calculated from horizontal profiles taken across the cylinders. The FWHM showed no variation with 99mTc concentration in the same cylinder. Phantom profiles were deconvolved with a system line spread function measured under similar conditions of scatter and depth. The correction factor to convert the deconvolved profile FWHM to true diameter was independent of cylinder depth and diameter over a range of FWHM 3–10 cm and depth 5–25 cm. The mean value for the correction factor was 1.23±0.04 for circular phantoms and 1.14±0.02 for the elliptical phantom. This technique should allow an objective and reproducible estimate of organ dimensions from planar images that is relatively independent of the depth and size of an organ.