cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of l-Arginine on Angiotensin II-Related Water and Salt Intakes

Abstract Roth, J. D. and N. E. Rowland. Effects of l -arginine on angiotensin II-related water and salt intakes. Physiol Behav 63(4) 729–732, 1998. Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated centrally as an inhibitory neuromodulator, acting in short feedback loops. Neurons capable of NO synthesis have been localized in various thirst-related hypothalamic nuclei. Intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of l -arginine ( l -arg), the precursor for NO, has previously been shown to attenuate both dehydration- and angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced drinking behavior. The present study further examines the effects of l -arg on drinking. We confirmed that icv administration of l -arg (50 μg) reduced water intakes induced by both 24 h water deprivation and icv Ang II (250 ng). We additionally showed that l -arg inhibited the water intake induced by peripheral injection of Ang II and the intake of 0.3 M NaCl following 24 h sodium depletion. We demonstrated the behavioral specificity of l -arg treatment by showing that it did not inhibit the intake of sucrose in food deprived rats and did not act as an unconditional stimulus for the formation of a conditioned taste aversion. These results lend further support to the idea that NO plays a role in modulating fluid balance and drinking behavior.
Prevalence of fractures in women with intellectual disabilities: a chart review

Background Numerous studies have demonstrated high rates of osteoporosis and fractures in women with intellectual disabilities (IDs). All of the studies use either institutionalized women or women in the community recruited at adult day-care centres or specialty clinics. We examined the prevalence of fractures in women with IDs who attend a primary care clinic, and assessed osteoporosis-prevention/intervention activities. Methods This was a chart review study. Charts were identified of women with an ICD-9 diagnosis code for ID, Down syndrome or developmental disabilities. All charts reviewed were patients of one of 13 family medicine clinics affiliated with Department of Family Medicine, the University of Wisconsin. Results A total of 93 charts were reviewed. More than 32% (30/93) of the charts contained a history of an adult-onset fracture. Increasing age, being postmenopausal and taking anticonvulsant medications were significantly associated with having a fracture. The average age of first fracture was 41.7 years. Of the women with a fracture, 35.5% were placed on a medication to maintain bone density, 67.7% received a recommendation for a calcium supplement, and 38.7% obtained a bone density test. Discussion The prevalence of fractures in women with IDs attending a family medicine clinic was very high, and fractures occurred at young ages. Primary care providers need to consider women with IDs at a high risk for fractures and begin preventive counselling in young women.
Organic Solar Cells Using Transparent SnO2–F Anodes

Organic solar cells have attracted attention as a means to achieve low-cost solar-energy conversion owing to their ease of manufacture and compatibility with flexible substrates. Conventional organic molecular photovoltaic (PV) devices and light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are typically grown on transparent indium tin oxide (ITO) anodes that are also widely used for flat-panel displays (FPDs). The scarcity of In, along with the rapid expansion of FPD production, has resulted in a soaring price of ITO-coated glass substrates, with the current price up to ten times greater than in 2003. Alternative transparent conducting oxides such as doped SnO2 or ZnO have been used as electrodes in dye-sensitized, CdTe, microcrystalline Si, and amorphous Si PV devices. Organic small-molecule or polymeric devices, with active layers typically < 1000 A thick, can readily be shorted owing to the pronounced surface-roughness characteristic of these oxide variants. Nevertheless, the cost of F-doped SnO2 (SnO2–F)coated glass is less than one third that of ITO-coated glass. While there have been reports of using SnO2–F as the transparent anode for polymeric OLEDs and solar cells, to our knowledge there has yet to be a demonstration of an organic heterojunction (HJ) PV cell based on SnO2–F anodes with an efficiency greater than 0.1 %. Here, we report on copper phthalocyanine (CuPc)/C60 HJ PV cells on SnO2–F anodes [8] with a power conversion efficiency of 2.5 % at 1 sun simulated AM 1.5 G (AM: air mass; G: Global) illumination. The organic layers were grown by organic vapor-phase deposition (OVPD) that enabled complete coverage of the rough oxide surface, effectively preventing shorts between opposing cathode and anode contacts. In addition, we show that by controlling the organic-film morphology, we can grow the donor–acceptor (D–A) interface into a three-dimensional interdigitated bulk HJ (BHJ) structure, resulting in power-conversion efficiencies nearly twice those of analogous devices with a planar heterointerface. As shown in Figure 1a, the 750 nm thick SnO2–F-coated glass substrates have 70–80 % transmittance in the visible range, or approximately 10 % less than that for glass with 150 nm thick ITO coatings. The absorption of both substrates has a high-energy cutoff at wavelengths less than 350 nm, implying a match of the transparency window to that of the solar radiation spectrum. The sheet resistance of SnO2–F-coated glass is less than 12 X/sq., lower than that of ITO-coated glass (15 X/sq.) The high transparency and small resistance C O M M U N IC A TI O N S
Fate of the atrioventricular endocardial cushions in the developing chick heart.

ABSTRACT: To determine the fate of the atrioventricular endocardial cushions in cardiac development, we used staining methods for extracellular fibronectin, which is abundant in the endocardial cushions, and actin, which is abundant in the myocytes. White Leghorn chick embryo hearts were harvested at Hamburger and Hamilton stages 26 to 36, and serial sections of the atrioventricular valve region were stained. Before atrioventricular valve formation, fibronectin and actin staining reveal separation between the fibronectin-rich endocardial cushions and the actin-rich myocardial layer. The developing mitral valve leafets at all of the observed stages contain a fibronectinrich matrix but no actin-rich myocytes. In contrast, the tricuspid band includes both fibronectin matrix and actinrich cells. We conclude that the mitral valve leaflets in the chick form predominantly from the endocardial cushion tissue, and the tricuspid band receives contributions from both the endocardial cushions and surrounding myocardium.
PROCESSING WHEY-TYPE BY-PRODUCT LIQUIDS FROM COTTONSEED PROTEIN ISOLATION WITH ULTRAFILTRATION AND REVERSE OSMOSIS MEMBRANES

Cottonseed wheys resulting from protein isolation from cottonseed flour were processed by semi-permeable ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. The UF membrane fractionated the soluble whey constituents by retaining protein and passing through salts, carbohydrates and other non-protein components along with most of the water. The UF membrane effluent was then processed through an RO membrane to recover a secondary product containing the whey materials not retained in the protein product from the UF membrane. The feasibility of recycling effluent from the RO membrane for reuse in subsequent protein extractions was demonstrated. Thus, the threat of water pollution from effluent disposal could be eliminated completely and process water requirements drastically reduced. Spray-dried UF protein concentrates were tested for utilization in protein fortification of breads and noncarbonated beverages and as whipping products. They exhibited commercial potential for use in these food applications. The economics of processing the whey-type liquids by the membrane process under investigation were analyzed. Membrane processing of wheys by each of two alternative whey processing systems proved to be economically attractive.
Exact and Resampling Probability Values for Measures of Categorical Variation and Consensus

When analyzing categorical data, it is often important to assess the magnitude of variation, or consensus, among observations in unordered categories. Utilizing the theory of partitions, exact solutions for five commonly used measures of categorical variation are presented. When the number of partitions is very large, resampling methods provide close approximations to exact probability values.
Evidence for cytoprotection by prostaglandin E1 with normothermic hepatic ischemia.

Although the liver is relatively resistant to normothermic ischemia, prolonged periods of inflow occlusion have produced evidence of hepatocyte injury. We have developed an animal model of liver ischemia using the pig and maintaining subtotal inflow (hepatic artery and portal vein) occlusion, allowing mesenteric portal decompression via patent portal veins through the caudate lobe, obviating the need for portosystemic shunting. This produced biochemical [aspartate transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)] and histopathologic evidence, using a microscopic grading system, of hepatocyte necrosis after 2 hr of normothermic ischemia. By administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) prior to and during inflow occlusion, we have produced a statistically significant reduction in LDH (1085.9 ± 413.5 U/liter compared to 669.1 ± 161.4 U/liter) and AST (236.5 ± 80.4 U/liter compared to 85.1 ± 39.7 U/liter) (P < 0.05) between control and PGE1 animals 24 hr after reperfusion. Moreover, using the blinded microscopic grading system for hepatocellular necrosis, we have found significantly less (2.86 ± 0.90 compared to 1.57 ± 1.13, P < 0.01) necrosis when control and PGE1 animals were compared. Our experimental model supports the hypothesis that PGE1 exerts a cytoprotective effect during prolonged normothermic hepatic ischemia but does not aid in elucidating a mechanism for this effect.
Entropy generation in ultrafiltration processes

Entropy production during the ultrafiltration of a solution in a membrane tube is investigated. It is shown that the entropy production is minimum at an optimum diameter of the membrane tube provided that the mass flow rate is constant. The rate of the entropy production is minimum at an optimum Reynolds number when the membrane tube diameter is fixed. There exists a relationship between concentration polarization and the rate of entropy production. It is being suggested that in order to minimize the concentration polarization in an ultrafiltration process, the optimum diameter and the Reynolds number should be calculated before tube diameter and fluid conditions are set.
Effects of cotton condensed tannin on feeding and digestion in the cotton pest, Heliothis zea

Abstract Condensed tannin of cotton incorporated into an artificial diet caused growth inhibition in H. zea larvae whose susceptibility was dependent upon the concentration of the dietary tannin, and also upon the size of the feeding larvae. Larvae feeding on tannin-treated diet exhibited both decreased protease and invertase activities in the midgut caecal wall, as well as lowered total protein and sugar levels in the haemolymph as compared to controls. These differences, however, had no effect on assilimation and efficiency of conversion of digested matter into animal biomass and therefore may be secondary effects. Ultimately, inhibition of growth is attributed to a reduction in food consumption.
Retributivism and Desert

Retributivists claim that the point of legal punishment, and the standard that ought to govern the construction of penal institutions, practices and rules, is that the guilty must be treated in the way that they morally deserve to be I construct an argument from elimination designed to show that there is no plausible index for measuring moral desert, and thus that a central plank of the retributivist platform is indefensible. I conclude by showing how deeply held intuitions that appear to support retributivism might be retained without embracing retributivism.
Acoustic standing wave suppression using randomized phase-shift-keying excitations

Recent papers have demonstrated that acoustic standing waves can be inhibited by frequency-modulated spread-spectrum excitation. An alternative method is studied here that is designed to be more practical for implementation in phased arrays. The method operates using phase-shift-keying (PSK), which introduces phase shifts into the driving signal to break wave symmetry. Sequential and random binary-PSK (BPSK) and quadrature-PSK (QPSK) excitations are studied in water, using a carrier frequency of 250kHz and a time segment of 10cycles. The resulting acoustic field is measured with a transducer inside a plastic-walled chamber and compared with continuous wave excitation. Results indicate that both the random BPSK and QPSK methods can reduce time-averaged spatial intensity variation caused by standing waves by approximately six times.
Animal consciousness: how can we know?

After a century in the wilderness of questions considered unanswerable by science, the study of animal consciousness has undergone a revival in the last few decades. Research on consciousness in nonhumans has spawned several experimental paradigms, all of which are represented in this edited volume. The Missing Link in Cognition (the missing link being, as its subtitle suggests, the origin of self-reflective consciousness) stands as an excellent resource for advanced students and researchers interested in the state of the art in this rapidly growing field.
Golli Protein Negatively Regulates Store Depletion-Induced Calcium Influx in T Cells

Calcium influx is crucial for T cell activation and differentiation. The detailed regulation of this process remains unclear. We report here that golli protein, an alternatively spliced product of the myelin basic protein gene, plays a critical role in regulating calcium influx in T cells. Golli-deficient T cells were hyperproliferative and showed enhanced calcium entry upon T cell receptor stimulation. We further found that golli regulates calcium influx in T cells through the inhibition of the store depletion-induced calcium influx. Mutation of the myristoylation site on golli disrupted its association with the plasma membrane and reversed its inhibitory action on Ca2+ influx, indicating that membrane association of golli was essential for its inhibitory action. These results indicate that golli functions in a unique way to regulate T cell activation through a mechanism involving the modulation of the calcium homeostasis.
The case for mandibular condylotomy in the treatment of the painful, deranged temporomandibular joint

Ward et al’ first published the results of condylotomy in 1957. They reported on 21 patients from his original series reported in 1961,’ finding marked improvement or complete relief of symptoms in 15 of these cases. Campbell3 using the same technique, demonstrated 84% clinical improvement in a series of 80 cases, with 32.2% being completely cured. Sada, in a series of 33 patients, reported relief of symptoms in 83% of the cases. In 1973, Tasanen and von Konow’ evaluated the results of closed condylotomy for both idiopathic pain and dysfunction and traumatic pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a series of 37 patients. Clinically, the two groups presented with similar symptoms, with the exception of clicking being more common in the idiopathic group. Complete satisfaction was noted in 23 of these cases; none of their patients were dissatisfied. Three of 37 cases had temporary VII nerve weakness, whereas 48% required “cuspal grinding on the operated side.” Banks and Mackenzie,6 reporting from the East Grinstead unit, evaluated 119 patients clinically and radiographically, which represented 68.3% of their surgical population. They found that 91% were “cured” or improved by surgery. They described the long-term findings of backward angulation of the condylar neck, a shortening of the ramus height, and an increased radiographic joint space. Of 117 patients who were radiographically evaluated on postoperative follow-up, a higher percentage were cured if the increased joint space was maintained (59% vs 28%). It was also noted that bilateral cases had a greater relapse (86.8% vs 41% unilateral). Of interest was the effect of clinically
Clustering of aromatic rings in near-frictionless hydrogenated amorphous carbon films probed using multiwavelength Raman spectroscopy

Multiwavelength Raman spectroscopy has been used to study the structure of hydrogenated amorphous carbon films synthesized by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The analysis of different parameters from the Raman spectra demonstrates that the diameter, structural, and topological orders of the sp2-bonded ring clusters increase with increasing fractions of hydrogen in the source gas. We report the existence of an unusual peak at 867cm−1 that in such extended clusters of aromatic rings, could correspond to a graphitic mode activated by a relaxation of the phonon selection-rule resulting from defects.
A Simulation of a Coronal Mass Ejection Propagation and Shock Evolution in the Lower Solar Corona

We present a detailed simulation of the evolution of a moderately slow coronal mass ejection (CME; 800 km s−1 at 5 R☉, where R☉ is solar radii) in the lower solar corona (2-5 R☉). The configuration of the Sun's magnetic field is based on the MDI data for the solar surface during Carrington rotation 1922. The pre-CME background solar wind is generated using the Wang-Sheeley-Arge (WSA) model. To initiate a CME, we inserted a modified Titov-Demoulin flux rope in an active region near the solar equator using the Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF). After the initiation stage (within 2.5 R☉), the CME evolves at a nearly constant and slow acceleration of the order of 100 m s−2, which corresponds to an intermediate-acceleration CME. Detailed analysis of the pressures shows that the thermal pressure accounts for most of the acceleration of the CME. The magnetic pressure contributes to the acceleration early in the evolution and becomes negligible when the CME moves beyond ~3 R☉. We also present the evolution of the shock geometry near the nose of the CME, which shows that the shock is quasi parallel most of the time.
Evaluation of a Topical Interferon Inducer in Experimental Influenza Infection in Volunteers

The prophylactic and/or therapeutic effect of a low-molecular-weight interferon inducer, CP-20,961, was tested in a double-blind placebo controlled study of experimental influenza A/England/42/72 (H3N2) infection in normal volunteers. Ten volunteers received CP-20,961 and 10 received placebo. Interferon was detected in nasal secretions of nine of the former and three of the latter group (P < 0.05). Seven in each group became ill, and severity of illness was not different. Also, quantitative virus shedding patterns and antibody response were not different between the two groups. The negative result may have been due to the relatively low quantities of interferon induced.
Propylthiouracil and Methimazole Display Contrasting Pathways of Peripheral Metabolism in Both Rat and Human

We have developed HPLC procedures for analyzing the metabolites of [35S]methylmercaptoimidazole ([35S] MMI) and [35S]propylthiouracil ([35S]PTU) in bile, urine, serum, and liver of rats. We also studied urinary metabolites of [35S] MMI and [35S]PTU in one human subject. In bile collected from [35S]MMI-injected rats, two major metabolites accounted for 80–90% of the total 35S. Incubation of these metabolites either with or without β-glucuronidase led to the appearance of a 35S-labeled compound less polar than MMI. In contrast, the major [35S]PTU metabolite in bile (>50% of total 35S) was completely converted to [35S]PTU on incubation with β-glucuronidase and showed no conversion in a control incuDation. From these results we conclude that the major biliary metabolites of MMI in rats are not glucuronides. They appear to be labile conjugates of a metabolite of MMI. After [35S]MMI injection into rats, two major and at least four minor metabolites were observed in urine. In one human who received [35S]MMI oral...
Motif analysis unveils the possible co-regulation of chloroplast genes and nuclear genes encoding chloroplast proteins

Chloroplasts play critical roles in land plant cells. Despite their importance and the availability of at least 200 sequenced chloroplast genomes, the number of known DNA regulatory sequences in chloroplast genomes are limited. In this paper, we designed computational methods to systematically study putative DNA regulatory sequences in intergenic regions near chloroplast genes in seven plant species and in promoter sequences of nuclear genes in Arabidopsis and rice. We found that -35/-10 elements alone cannot explain the transcriptional regulation of chloroplast genes. We also concluded that there are unlikely motifs shared by intergenic sequences of most of chloroplast genes, indicating that these genes are regulated differently. Finally and surprisingly, we found five conserved motifs, each of which occurs in no more than six chloroplast intergenic sequences, are significantly shared by promoters of nuclear-genes encoding chloroplast proteins. By integrating information from gene function annotation, protein subcellular localization analyses, protein-protein interaction data, and gene expression data, we further showed support of the functionality of these conserved motifs. Our study implies the existence of unknown nuclear-encoded transcription factors that regulate both chloroplast genes and nuclear genes encoding chloroplast protein, which sheds light on the understanding of the transcriptional regulation of chloroplast genes.
1α, 25-Dihydroxyvitamin D and corticosteroid regulate adipocyte nuclear vitamin D receptor

We previously demonstrated that high calcium diets inhibit obesity in both mice and humans; this effect is mediated, in part, by dietary calcium suppression of 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D, which exerts both non-genomic and genomic effects on adipocyte metabolism. However, the presence of the nuclear vitamin D receptor (nVDR) and its role in this regulation in adipocytes have not been investigated. The nVDR is expressed at low levels in preadipocytes, and differentiation induced a rapid 1150% increase within 3 h (P<0.001), which then declined rapidly to preadipocyte levels at differentiation day 3. However, this was not a differentiation event, as the components of the differentiation mixture (isobutylmethylxanthine and dexamethasone) also increased nVDR expression markedly by 1620 and 284%, respectively, in fully differentiated adipocytes (P<0.05). 1α, 25-Dihydroxyvitamin D and 11β-dehydrocorticosterone each stimulated nVDR expression at 48 h, but not 3 h, by ∼650% in fully differentiated adipocytes, whereas the combination augmented this effect (P<0.005). Knockdown of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase I (11β-HSD I) markedly decreased adipocyte nVDR expression and attenuated 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D stimulation of nVDR. Thus, 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D stimulation of corticosteroid synthesis via the 11β-HSD appears to provide an indirect positive feedback on the nVDR. 1α, 25-Dihydroxyvitamin D also regulated short-term corticosterone release independently of either 11β-HSD I or nVDR. Knockdown 11β-HSD I did not affect short-term corticosterone release, whereas modulating calcium influx by KCl, BAYK8644 and the membrane 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D receptor agonist lumisterol markedly increased corticosterone release. These data suggest a potential role of nVDR and corticosterone in the regulation in adipocyte responses to 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D and dietary calcium.
A spectrophotometric method for the analysis of pepsin.

p-Nitrophenyl sulfite was found to be a suitable synthetic substrate for rapid spectrophotometric analysis of pepsin in gastric secretion. When this substrate was incubated with enzyme, the maximal rate of change of absorbance at 320 nm was found to be directly proportional to enzyme concentration. As little as 1 μg of pepsin could be assayed accurately. A comparison of the proposed method with the assay of Anson and Mirsky by the simultaneous assay of 50 gastric specimens showed no difference between the two.
Influence of host genetic variation on rubella-specific T cell cytokine responses following rubella vaccination

The variability of immune response modulated by immune response gene polymorphisms is a significant factor in the protective effect of vaccines. We studied the association between cellular (cytokine) immunity and HLA genes among 738 schoolchildren (396 males and 342 females) between the ages of 11 and 19 years, who received two doses of rubella vaccine (Merck). Cytokine secretion levels in response to rubella virus stimulation were determined in PBMC cultures by ELISA. Cell supernatants were assayed for Th1 (IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-12p40), Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10), and innate/proinflammatory (TNF-α, GM-CSF, and IL-6) cytokines. We found a strong association between multiple alleles of the HLA-DQA1 (global p-value 0.022) and HLA-DQB1 (global p-value 0.007) loci and variations in rubella-specific IL-2 cytokine secretion. Additionally, the relationships between alleles of the HLA-A (global p-value 0.058), HLA-B (global p-value 0.035), and HLA-C (global p-value 0.023) loci and TNF-α secretion suggest the importance of HLA class I molecules in innate/inflammatory immune response. Better characterization of these genetic profiles could help to predict immune responses at the individual and population level, provide data on mechanisms of immune response development, and further inform vaccine development and vaccination policies.
Net Primary Production of the Dominant Bryophytes in a Sphagnum-Dominated Wetland in West Virginia

Measurements of annual net primary production of Sphagnum ma- gellanicum Brid., Sphagnum recurvum P. -Beauv., and Polytrichum commune Hedw. were 5.4, 6.1, and 7.9 g dry mass dm-2, respectively, at Big Run Bog--a wetland in the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau of West Virginia. Production values for these three species were greater than other reported values in the literature. A general increase in annual production of Sphagnum spp. with decreasing latitude was doc- umented. This trend is contrary to the progressive declines in the depths and sizes of inland peat deposits with decreasing latitude, suggesting that annual production is less important than annual decomposition in determining peat accumulation. About 80 percent of the peat deposits within the United States lie roughly in the area north of 41*N latitude and east of 97?E longitude (Sheridan 1963). This area has, for the most part, been glaciated. Wetland areas with notable accumulations of peat also occur in the unglaciated portion of the Appalachian Mountains, and, along a north to south gradient these peat deposits become fewer, thinner and more highly decomposed (Cameron 1968). The vegetation of several of these small mountain wetlands has been described (Darlington 1943; Rigg & Strausbaugh 1949; Robinette 1964; Gibson 1970; Edens 1973; Fortney 1975; Wieder et al. 1981; Walbridge 1982; Walbridge & Lang 1982) and several species with decidedly boreal distributions are present. However, in contrast to the vast amount of information available on northern peatlands, relatively little is known about the functional attributes of these smaller mountain wetland systems. Of particular importance is the balance between annual net primary production and annual decomposition, which ulti- mately regulates the accumulation and maintenance of peat in a wetland, regardless of geographic location. Here we report data on the production of one component of the vegetation, the dominant bryophytes, in Big Run Bog-a wetland in the unglaciated Ap- palachian Plateau of West Virginia.
Egg pigment: Early elimination from the developing retina of the frog

Die wahrend der Oogenese entstandenen Melaningranula werden aus dem neuralen Netzhautanteil ausgeschieden und vom Pigmentepithel aufgenommen. Dies geschieht, bevor das Zentralnervensystem pigmentfrei geworden ist, und ermoglicht wirkungsvolle Lichtaufnahme in den Photorezeptoren.
Indoor environmental quality assessment models: A literature review and a proposed weighting and classification scheme

This paper explores the existing literature on indoor environmental quality (IEQ) evaluation models and proposes a new weighting and classification scheme. Studies that attempt to provide IEQ assessment of commercial buildings through a scoring system are reviewed and critiqued. Objective and subjective evaluation methods and correlations are discussed. The use of assessment categories (classes) in IEQ models is critiqued and an argument is proposed against their adoption. IEQ weighting schemes are summarized and compared against a newly developed scheme based on 52,980 occupant responses in office buildings. A binary assessment classification scheme is proposed in alignment with the ASHRAE/CIBSE/USGBC Performance Measurement Protocols for Commercial Buildings.
Dissociation Energies and Kinetics of Aminopyrimidinium Radicals by ab Initio and Density Functional Theory

A series of isomeric 4-aminopyrimidinium radicals were used to model hydrogen atom adducts of nucleobases containing the 4-aminopyrimidine structure motif. Relative stabilities and activation energies for dissociations by hydrogen atom loss have been calculated by density functional theory and ab initio methods up to effective QCISD(T)/6-311+G(2d,p) for 4-amino-N-1-H− (1), 2-H− (2), N-3-H− (3), 4-H− (4), 5-H− (5), and 6-H− (6) pyrimidinium radicals and the 4-pyrimidylammonium radical (7). All these radicals were found to be bound species existing in potential energy wells. The order of stabilities has been established as 5 (most stable) > 3 > 2 > 1 > 6 > 4 ≫ 7 (least stable). Dissociations of the N−H and C−H bonds in 1-7 required activation barriers above the dissociation thresholds. RRKM calculations of unimolecular rate constants for N−H bond dissociations in 1 and 3 predicted substantial stabilization of these radicals by kinetic shift in the gas phase. Additions of hydrogen atoms to the N-1, C-2, N-3,...
Ultrasonic surgical aspiration for vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia

Abstract Objective To determine the safety and efficacy of ultrasonic surgical aspiration (USA) in the treatment of vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN). Methods Using the ICD code for VAIN, all patients who underwent USA were evaluated. Patient demographics, clinicopathologic data, and follow-up outcomes were abstracted from the medical records. Results Ninety-two patients underwent USA for VAIN. No surgical complications or postoperative scarring were recorded, and all patients were followed without further therapy after the procedure. Pathologic evaluation of the degree of VAIN in the aspirate obtained at the time of USA correlated with the preoperative biopsy results in all cases. With a median follow-up period of 4.5 years, the overall recurrence rate was 19.6%. The recurrence rate for high grade VAIN was significantly greater than that for low grade VAIN (32.3% vs 13.1%, P = 0.044). Conclusion Ultrasonic surgical aspiration is a safe and effective surgical option for VAIN, providing a histologic sample with minimal invasiveness.
Soap: how to make a mouse work in mid-air

Computer mice do not work in mid air. The reason is that a mouse is really only half an input device - the other half being the surface the mouse is operated on, such as a mouse pad. In this demo, we demonstrate how to combine a mouse and a mouse pad into soap, a device that can be operated in mid air with a single hand. We have used soap to control video games, interact with wall displays and Windows Media Center, and to give slide presentations.
Inverse relationship of the durations of adjacent open and shut intervals for Cl and K channels

Ion channels in cell membranes, whether voltage-dependent or activated by ligands, make repeated transitions among open and shut states during activity1,2. Information about the number of states and the transitional pathways between them can be obtained from the durations of open and shut intervals, as transitions to states of different lifetimes result in intervals of different mean durations3. If there is only one open conformation, or state, then the durations of open intervals would be independent of the durations of adjacent shut intervals. On the other hand, if a channel has two or more open states with different mean lifetimes, and if each open state is entered directly from a different shut state with a different mean lifetime, then the open intervals should be related to the adjacent shut intervals. We now report that the durations of adjacent open and shut intervals for both a Cl channel and a large conductance Ca-activated K channel in skeletal muscle are inversely related; shorter open intervals are adjacent to longer shut intervals. These findings indicate that two or more shut states make direct transitions to two or more open states, and suggest that the lifetimes of adjacent open and shut states are inversely related.
Perceived Role Conflict, Role Ambiguity, and Teacher Burnout

This study of 469 classroom teachers examined the relationship of role conflict and role ambiguity to teacher burnout. Three aspects of burnout were examined: feelings of emotional exhaustion, depe...
On diversity measures based on entropy functions

Some properties and interrelationships among the diversity measures arising from the concept of entropy are discussed, Asymptotic distributions of the estimates of these measures are presented.
Radiocarbon chronology andδ13C analysis of mid-to late-Holocene aeolian environments, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas, USA

The Red Dunes of Guadalupe Mountains National Park are quartzose sand sheets and dunes stabilized by sparse plant cover. Stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating, and δ13C analysis were examined in two of the larger arroyos for correlating evidence of aeolian deposition, which in this basin is taken as an indication of arid conditions. Four quartz-sand lithostratigraphic units, representing intervals of aeolian activity, are identified. Radiocarbon dates provide constraint on the timing of the three youngest quartz-sand units. A mid-Holocene aeolian interval, represented by a single radiocarbon date of 6350± 70 BP, is interpreted as transitional to an altithermal regime. A neopluvial period, dated at 3370± 70 BP, separates mid-and late-Holocene aeolian activity. Late-Holocene time is characterized by generally drier conditions than present and almost continuous aeolian activity from 1690± 80 BP to 350± 0 BP. Stable carbon isotope analysis suggests an abrupt shift to generally cooler summer temperatures during thi...
Inhibition of rabbit skeletal muscle adenylate kinase by the transition state analogue, P1,P4-di(adenosine-5′)tetraphosphate☆

Abstract Inhibition studies of rabbit muscle adenylate kinase (ATP:AMP phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.4.3) indicate that the transition state analogue, P 1 , P 4 -di(adenosine-5′)-tetraphosphate, is a competitive inhibitor relative to ATP and AMP. These studies suggest that adenylate kinase most probably has a kinetic mechanism involving the random addition of MgATP 2− and AMP 2− to the enzyme to form a E ·MgATP 2− -AMP 2− Michaelis complex.
A Phase Investigation of the Rh-Ga-As System

The Rh- Ga- As solid- state equilibrium phase diagram was determined at 800 °C with the use of powder X- ray diffraction (XRD), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). No ternary Rh- Ga- As phases were found, and very limited solid solubility was measured in GaAs and the constituent binary Rh- Ga and Rh- As compounds. GaAs, RhGa, and RhAs2 form a three- phase region that dominates the GaAs side of the phase diagram. The existence of this three- phase region confirms previous observations that RhGa and RhAs2 are the stable phases when Rh thin films are completely reacted on GaAs.
Mechanism of carotenoid coloration in the brightly colored plumages of broadbills (Eurylaimidae)

The plumage carotenoids of six species from five genera of broadbills (Eurylaimidae) have been examined. These plumages are crimson, violet, purple-maroon, or yellow. Two genera also have brilliant green plumages that are produced by a combination of structural coloration and unknown carotenoids. Six different carotenoids from nine different plumage patches were identified, including two previously unknown molecules, using high-performance liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and MS/MS fragment analysis. The yellow pigment in Eurylaimus javanicus and Eurylaimus ochromalus is identified as the novel carotenoid, 7,8-dihydro-3′-dehydro-lutein. The yellow and green plumages of Psarisomus dalhousiae contain the unmodified dietary carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. The brilliant green feathers of Calyptomena viridis contain a mixture of lutein and two other xanthophylls that have previously been found only in woodpeckers (Picinae). The crimson and violet colors of Cymbirhynchus, Sarcophanops, and Eurylaimus are produced by a novel pigment, which is identified as 2,3-didehydro-papilioerythrinone. The molecular structure of this carotenoid was confirmed using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, correlated two-dimensional spectroscopy, and two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy. Resonance Raman (rR) spectroscopy carried out at room and low temperatures was used to probe the configuration and conformation of 2,3-didehydro-papilioerythrinone in situ within crimson C. macrorhynchos and purple-red E. javanicus feathers. The rR spectra reveal that the pigment is in an all-trans configuration and appears to be relatively planar in the feathers. The likely metabolic pathways for the production of broadbill carotenoids from dietary precursors are discussed.
Fragment reattachment, reproductive status, and health indicators of the invasive colonial tunicate Didemnum vexillum with implications for dispersal

The invasive colonial tunicate Didemnum vexillum is now widespread in coastal and offshore waters of New England, USA. D. vexillum can inflict ecological and economic damage through biofouling and habitat modification. Natural and anthropogenic processes that fragment colonies of D. vexillum may be accelerating the spread of this invader. Reattachment success and fragment viability were confirmed in the laboratory after four weeks of suspension in experimental aquaria. The shape of suspended D. vexillum fragments progressed from flattened to globular spheres and then flattened again after reattachment to the substrate. Reproductive activity, confirmed by the presence of eggs and larvae, was observed for fragments suspended up to 3 weeks suggesting that D. vexillum is capable of reproducing while in a fragmented, suspended state. An index of colony health was used to monitor change in D. vexillum health while in suspension. Overall, colony health declined with time in suspension although colonies that appeared dead (black and gray in overall color) still contained a substantial number of healthy live zooids. These results suggest that activities that cause fragmentation can significantly facilitate the spread of D. vexillum. Coastal managers should consider reducing or eliminating, when practical, activities that return fragmented colonies of D. vexillum to the water. In-water cleaning of biofouling and dredging are likely expediting the spread of this invasive species unless biofouling can be contained and removed from the water.
Immunohistochemical diagnosis of epithelioid mesotheliomas: A critical review of old markers, new markers*

Numerous new immunohistochemical markers that can be used in the diagnosis of mesothelioma have recently become available. As a result, new panels of antibodies that could be useful for distinguishing between epithelioid mesotheliomas and adenocarcinomas have been proposed. However, great differences of opinion exist regarding the individual value of some of these markers, especially when compared with those whose value has already been established. This article provides a critical review of the currently available information on those markers that could be useful in the diagnosis of epithelioid mesotheliomas or whose utility remains controversial. A practical approach to the diagnosis of these tumors is also provided.
System design of an ion drive spacecraft

As electric propulsion technology has improved and mission requirements have changed, a series of Ion Propulsion Module (IPM) design concepts have evolved. The most recent iteration occurred in the NASA-sponsored Halley Comet Rendezvous Mission (HCRM) study of ion drive. Spacecraft system design considerations introduced by the integration of such an IPM as the primary propulsion source are described with reference to the synthesis of the HCRM spacecraft and spacecraft design considerations for other interplanetary applications. IPM interactions with the system (especially telecommunications and science) are found to be manageable. The spacecraft design developed for the HCRM indicates the interface simplicity between the IPM and the spacecraft. Methods are shown for readily applying this IPM to a variety of planetary missions. Methods are also described for the IPM to provide up to 5 kW to the spacecraft for increasing the mission science return
Does rock chemistry affect periphyton accrual in streams

Stones of different rock types often accrue different amounts of periphytic algae. Although algal biomass may be positively related to stone roughness, the confounding role of rock chemistry is unclear. This independent effect of rock chemistry on benthic algae was tested using the nutrient-diffusing technique, by incorporating powdered stone, rather than nutrients, into the agar matrix. Rocks tested were sandstone, obsidian, schist, greywacke, pumice, gypsum, limestone, serpentine, and phosphorite. Petri-dishes containing powdered rock and agar, and covered with a permeable cellulose filter, were incubated in eight pools in a granitic stream. Algal biomass did not differ among any of the nine rock types and plain agar control, whereas biomass differed among the concurrently placed nutrient diffusing substrates (the stream was phosphorus-limited). Algal composition was more related to an upstream-downstream gradient (for filamentous algae) and pool-specific effects (deposition of fine sediment for diatoms) than rock chemistry. This minimal effect of rock chemistry may be caused by the low dissolution rate of stones.
Preoperative Inferior Mesenteric Artery Embolization before Endovascular Aneurysm Repair: Decreased Incidence of Type II Endoleak and Aneurysm Sac Enlargement with 24-month Follow-up

Abstract Purpose To review the effect of preoperative embolization of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) before endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) on subsequent endoleaks and aneurysm growth. Materials and Methods Between August 2002 and May 2010, 108 patients underwent IMA embolization before EVAR. Coil embolization was performed in all patients in whom the IMA was successfully visualized and accessed during preoperative conventional angiography. In this cohort, the incidences of type II endoleak, aneurysm sac volume enlargement at 24 months, and repeat intervention were compared with a group of 158 consecutive patients with a patent IMA on preoperative computed tomography angiography but not on conventional angiography, who therefore did not undergo preoperative embolization. Results The incidence of type II endoleak was significantly higher in patients not treated with embolization (49.4% [78 of 158] vs 34.3% [37 of 108]; P = .015). The incidence of secondary intervention for type II endoleak embolization was also significantly higher in those who did not undergo embolization (7.6% [12 of 158] vs 0.9% [one of 108]; P = .013). At 24 months, an increase in aneurysm sac volume was observed in 47% of patients in the nonembolized cohort (21 of 45), compared with 26% of patients in the embolized cohort (13 of 51; P = .03). No aneurysm ruptures or aneurysm-related deaths were observed in either group. One patient in the embolization group developed mesenteric ischemia and ultimately died. Conclusions Preoperative embolization of the IMA was associated with reduced incidences of type II endoleak, aneurysm sac volume enlargement at 24 months, and secondary intervention.
Size-tuned mechanisms: correlation of data on detection and apparent size.

Abstract Detection thresholds were obtained for uniformly illuminated and non-uniformly illuminated (disk-annulus) stimuli. Then, the stimuli were presented at threshold and observers attempted to discriminate between uniform and non-uniform stimuli, and also made judgments of the apparent size of each stimulus. The uniform and non-uniform stimuli were not discriminated. Changes in apparent size were correlated with changes in detection thresholds. These findings support a multiple size-tuned mechanism interpretation.
Subsurface Disposal of Liquid Industrial Wastes in Alabama—A Current Status Reporta

Four subsurface disposal wells have been drilled and completed in Alabama. These are: Stauffer Chemical Company, Mobile County; Ciba-Geigy, Inc., Washington County; U. S. Steel Corp., Jefferson County; and Reichhold Chemicals, Inc., Tuscaloosa County. The Geological Survey of Alabama has been directly involved in all four projects. The Survey served as a consultant to the Alabama Water Improvement Commission, the State agency responsible for protection of surface and ground water in Alabama, on the Stauffer and Ciba-Geigy projects, and as consultant and supervisor on the U. S. Steel Corporation and Reichhold Chemicals, Inc., projects. These projects were undertaken as a research effort to insure that the responsible State agencies are fully cognizant of all aspects of this method of waste disposal. It is a policy in Alabama that subsurface disposal is permissible for some wastes if the well is properly designed and completed in an appropriate geologic environment and if conventional methods of waste treatment have been evaluated and proved to be inadequate. The Stauffer well, operating at 75 gallons per minute and 500 psi, is the only subsurface disposal system, other than oilfield brine disposal wells, that is currently in operation. The Stauffer and Ciba-Geigy wells are in the Coastal Plains geological province and the U. S. Steel and Reichhold Chemicals, Inc., wells are in Paleozoic sediments of the Warrior Basin. A general discussion of the geology, drilling, completion, and testing techniques is presented for the two geologic provinces involved.
Update on optimal use of lisdexamfetamine in the treatment of ADHD.

Lisdexamfetamine (LDX) has been a recent addition to the treatment armamentarium for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is unique among stimulants as it is a prodrug, and has been found to be safe and well-tolerated medication in children older than 6 years, adolescents and adults. It has a smooth onset of action, exerts its action up to 13 hours and may have less rebound symptoms. LDX has proven to be effective in the treatment of ADHD in placebo controlled trials, and improved performance in simulated academic and work environments have been noticed. Both stimulant-naive and stimulant-exposed patients with ADHD appear to benefit from LDX. It has also shown some promise in improving emotional expression and executive function of patients with ADHD. Adverse effects such as decrease in sleep, loss of appetite and others have been reported with LDX use, just as with other stimulant formulations. Since most such studies exclude subjects with preexisting cardiac morbidity, prescribing precautions should be taken with LDX in such subjects, as with any other stimulant. Study subjects on LDX have been reported to have low scores on drug likability scales, even with intravenous use; as a result, LDX may have somewhat less potential for abuse and diversion. There is a need for future studies comparing other long acting stimulants with LDX in ADHD; in fact clinical trials comparing LDX with OROS (osmotic controlled-release oral delivery system) methylphenidate are currently underway. Furthermore, the utility of this medication in other psychiatric disorders and beyond ADHD is being investigated.