cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Corrosivity Associated With Exhaust Gas Recirculation in a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine

A high-resolution corrosion probe was placed within the airhorn section of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) loop of a heavy-duty diesel engine. The corrosion rate of the mild-steel probe elements was evaluated as a function of fuel sulfur level, EGR fraction, dewpoint margin, and humidity. No significant corrosion was observed while running the engine using a No. 2 grade, < 15ppm sulfur diesel fuel; however, high corrosion rates were observed on the probe elements when operating the engine using a standard grade No. 2 diesel fuel (~350 ppm sulfur) while condensing water in the EGR loop. The rate of corrosion on the mild steel elements was found to increase with increasing levels of sulfate in the condensate. However, the engine conditions influencing the sulfate level were not clearly identified in this study.
Denying the Antecedent: Its Effective Use in Argumentation

Denying the antecedent is an invalid form of reasoning that is typically identified and frowned upon as a formal fallacy. Contrary to arguments that it does not or at least should not occur, denying the antecedent is a legitimate and effective strategy for undermining a position. Since it is not a valid form of argument, it cannot prove that the position is false. But it can provide inductive evidence that this position is probably false. In this role, it is neither defective nor deceptive. Denying the antecedent provides inductive support for rejecting a claim as improbable.
Assay for Microsomal α-Hydroxylation of N ′-Nitrosonornicotine and Determination of the Deuterium Isotope Effect for α-Hydroxylation

A high-pressure liquid chromatographic assay was developed for microsomal α-hydroxylation (2′-hydroxylation and 5′-hydroxylation) of N ′-nitrosonornicotine. N ′-Nitrosonornicotine was incubated with rat liver microsomes and a reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-generating system at 37°. After addition of 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine reagent, the mixtures were analyzed by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography. The 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazones of 4-hydroxy-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and 4-hydroxy-1-(3-pyridyl)-butanal, which are the products of 2′-hydroxylation and 5′-hydroxylation, were quantified by ultraviolet light detection at 254 nm. Km's for 2′-hydroxylation and 5′-hydroxylation of N ′-nitrosonornicotine by liver microsomes from Aroclor-treated male F-344 rats were 1.81 and 1.96 mm, while V max's were 0.53 and 1.05 nmol/min/mg protein, respectively. Aroclor pretreatment of rats resulted in a 20-fold induction of 2′-hydroxylation, but only a 1.9-fold induction of 5′-hydroxylation. The deuterium isotope effect for α-hydroxylation of N ′-nitrosonornicotine was determined by comparing the rates of 2′-hydroxylation and 5′-hydroxylation of N ′-nitrosonornicotine, N ′-[2′,5′,5′-d]nitrosonornicotine, N ′-[2′-d]nitrosonornicotine, and N′-[5′,5′-d]nitrosonornicotine. The deuterium isotope effect ( V max h/ V max d) was 2.4 to 2.7 for 5′-hydroxylation and 1.2 for 2′-hydroxylation.
Manipulating Magnetism in a Single Molecule

One of the key questions facing researchers studying molecular electronic devices is what happens when molecules come in contact with metals. A subtle effect known as the Kondo resonance offers one way to study these contacts. In his Perspective, [Crommie][1] discusses results reported in the same issue by [ Zhao et al. ][2] on the Kondo effect in a single molecule on a gold surface. Normally a cobalt phthalocyanine molecule sits flat on the metal surface, but when hydrogen atoms are pruned off with a scanning tunneling microscope tip, the molecule arches away from the surface. This causes the spins of the electrons in the metal to interact with the spin of the cobalt atom to form a Kondo resonance. The result opens the way for fundamental studies of spin behavior in molecules that may influence future molecular device applications. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/309/5740/1501 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/309/5740/1542
Beyond Maltreatment: Developing Support for Children in Multiproblem Families

In the United States, the role of government is very limited in regulating and monitoring child rearing. Unless a parent’s behavior falls below a standard that is considered abuse or neglect (maltreatment) there is no government oversight of parenting. Yet, there is good reason to believe that 15–20 % of all children in the United States live in homes where the quality of parenting puts them at risk of very poor outcomes during childhood and into adulthood. Only about a third of these families are brought under the supervision of the CPS system. No system has responsibility for trying to help children whose development is adversely affected by problematic parenting that does not involve harms that fall within the definition of maltreatment. This chapter uses an outcomes-focused framework to examine types of state actions that might help all parents provide minimally adequate care. It divides parenting behaviors into two categories: (a) parental behaviors that should be labeled maltreatment because they require intervention through the child protection system and (b) other forms of highly inadequate parenting which should be addressed by systems other than CPS. It then examines the proper role of the CPS system, schools, and other social services in promoting the well-being of children. It concludes that none of these systems can adequately meet the needs of many children in homes where the parenting is highly inadequate. It proposes that a new system of coordinated services be created and explores the elements that should be included in such a system.
The Quality of the Quantity: Information Technology and the Evaluation of Data:

Un des problemes des donnees d'enquete est le besoin d'un cadre interpretatif pour ces donnees. Generalement ce cadre est une creation ad hoc (faisant partie de l'outil d'enquete) qui est modifie dans la pratique (post hoc) des explications de resultats, des contradictions potentielles et des ecarts d'anticipations prealables. Quoique les statistiques fournissent des mesures de coherence et de validite des donnees, elles ne peuvent pas interpreter ce que les repondants pensent. Cette etude presente un plan general de l'utilisation des technologies de l'information pour aider les chercheurs dans l'interpretation des donnees des repondants. Une methode de saisie du cadre interpretatif des repondants est l'analyse du type de conversation qui a lieu naturellement lors de la passation du questionnaire. Les nouvelles technologies de l'information fournissent les outils necessaires. Par exemple, les enquetes par telephone assistees par ordinateur (CATI) peuvent saisir des donnees textuelles et conversationnelles avec quelques modifications du systeme Informatique de saisie et de la base de donnees. Les donnees stockees peuvent etre analysees avec des donnees statistiques. Quoiqu'il existe des limites physiques (espace disque, temps, etc.) pour une telle entreprise. L'information extraite des textes et des conversations fournit un materiel contextuel important dans l'analyse des donnees numeriques. Des procedes technologiques simples peuvent etre utilises pour obtenir une comprehension generale du contexte interpretatif (surtout en lien avec des analyses statistiques). Les donnees peuvent aussi etre utilisees pour ameliorer l'instrument d'enquete et evaluer la performance des interviewers. Un programme en deux etapes est presente. La premiere etape consiste en des modifications relativement simples de technologies existantes de gestion des donnees textuelles. La seconde etape envisage un developpement plus v
Emotional Intelligence and Business Success

Business leaders impact their subordinate performance and attitudes through their leader behaviors and attitudes. This study discusses the potential impact of leader behaviors via emotional intelligence attributes on employee satisfaction and commitment to their leader and to the organization. The findings suggest strategies for enhancing leader behaviors to maximize positive individual-level and organization-level outcomes.Methodology: This study presents a brief review of emotional intelligence and summarizes the current research on organizational leadership regarding how leader behaviors impact employee and organizational outcomes, especially employee satisfaction and commitment, two variables of interest in this study. Study data was collected via survey methodology, utilizing workers with full-time work positions across multiple industries.Implications: This article contributes to the field of management by determining the impact and effect of leader behavior on employee satisfaction and commitment. Vast research to date has shown the overwhelming importance of high satisfaction and commitment among employees - both with their job and organization - toward improved performance, increased motivation, and reduced absenteeism and turnover, as examples. The results of the study are have implications for leader selection, training, and evaluation, employee retention, and succession strategies.
Inhibition of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced nitroblue tetrazolium reduction in mouse peritoneal macrophages by various tumor promotion inhibitors

The effects of various inhibitors on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) in mouse peritoneal macrophages were investigated. The reduction was inhibited by phospholipase A2 inhibitors, such as dibromoacetophenone, the lipoxygenase inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid, an NADH-dehydrogenase inhibitor, the microfilament inhibitor cytochalasin B, oxygen radical scavengers such as superoxide dismutase, antioxidants such as butyl hydroxyanisole and non-specific inhibitors such as retinoic acid. The reduction was not affected by the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin or the H2O2 scavenger catalase.
Medical psychotherapy. Clinical application in an inpatient setting.

Abstract Under the prevailing Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) billing codes, the function of the inpatient psychiatrist is defined in terms of providing “psychotherapy”. Various third-party auditors have raised the implication of fraud when this has not been provided in a standardized fashion. In response, revisions in the CPT codes have been proposed aimed at legitimizing the true responsibilities of the attending psychiatrist. As an alternative solution, I have attempted to briefly summarize the concept of “medical psychotherapy”, clarify how this approach would apply in an acute inpatient setting, and outline how it differs from the more classically defined outpatient psychotherapy models.
Age differences in sibling relationaship during middle childhood

Abstract Seventy-three sibling pairs between the ages of 4 and 11 years were videotaped for 30-min at thier school. Sessions were coded using both a continous 20 s behaviorally based time sample and overall ratings of the quality of sibling relationship. A maximum likehood factor analysis extracted 6 factors: Power/Status, Teach/Help, Cinflict, Positive Tone, Companionship, and Self-Praise. age differences were examined by contrasting sibling who differed in age but were equivalent in birth order and age spacing. Significant differences were found on 5 factors. With age siblings became more equal in power and status. Sibling instructions/help decreased, whereas companionship and positive emotional tone increased with age. Contrary to expectation, sibling conflict also increased. These age differences are discussed in terms of a lifespan approach to sibling relationships.
Lorelogram: A Regression Approach to Exploring Dependence in Longitudinal Categorical Responses

Abstract We propose flexible regression estimators of the marginal pairwise log-odds ratio measure of association for longitudinal categorical responses. The function that we estimate is the log-odds ratio analog of the correlogram; hence we name the function the lorelogram. Measuring the association of categorical responses on the log-odds scale allows ease of interpretation and allows pairwise association to remain unconstrained by the marginal means, a feature not shared by correlations with binary or multinomial responses. Estimation of the function is achieved through the use of standard parametric estimating equations or through an extension of generalized additive models that allows nonparametric estimation of dependence functions for fixed smoothing parameters. We apply the methodology to binary longitudinal data where scientific interest focuses on the dependence structure.
P02-473 - A pilot program using media to combat trauma in adolescents

Empirical research and current statistics show that child sexual violence/abuse and its lasting effects, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, are key issues in adolescent development and could be addressed in a novel fashion involving supervised peer-groups and the arts. We propose a pilot program that would span twenty-two weeks, with ideally a maximum of twenty (20) students from a large, metropolitan-area of United States. These high school aged adolescents will have experienced trauma through sexual violence/abuse and also will have experienced academic and behavioral decline within six months of the initial trauma. Students will explore, through the medium of photography, a weekly-assigned issue that relates to their daily life. After the twenty-two weeks have passed, we will continue to check in with the teens, parents, and teachers to see if any measured gains persist. My goal is to show that through the creative exploration of the self, coupled with the building a new social system, there will be an increase in academic performance, mental health, self-esteem, and behavior. As a pilot, I will be able to predict efficacy in advance of moving forward into a larger study.
Protonation of CpW(CO)2(PMe3)H: Is the Metal or the Hydride the Kinetic Site?

We have compared the rate at which a proton is transferred to the hydride ligand of CpW(CO)2(PMe3)H (3) with the rate at which one is transferred to the metal. Qualitative evidence that protonation of the hydride ligand is faster is offered by observation of fast exchange between 3 and CF3SO3D and selective broadening of the trans hydride resonance of 3 during exchange with anilinium. Rate constants were obtained by 1H NMR for H/D exchange between 3 and 4-tert-butyl-N,N-dimethylanilinium-N-d1 (5-d1); an unusual EIE of 0.19 was observed and explained by location of the vibrational normal modes of 3, 5, and their deuterated analogues via IR and Raman spectroscopy. A pKa of 5.6(1) in CH3CN was determined for CpW(CO)2(PMe3)H2+ (4a) by IR; the importance of homoconjugate pair interactions in protonation equilibria is illustrated and discussed. The exchange rate data and the rate constant for deprotonation of 4a by 4-tert-butyl-N,N-dimethylaniline (6), combined with the pKa data, provide quantitative evidence t...
The Role of a Narrative's Emotional Flow in Promoting Persuasive Outcomes

The study of narrative persuasion has increased dramatically in the past decade. Whereas much of this research focuses on story and character involvement, the role of emotion—and emotional flow specifically—has been understudied. In this article, we explore the multiple ways that the desire for and the experience of emotional shifts may promote the persuasive influence of narratives. First, we propose that the desire for an emotional shift (e.g., mood management) can guide message selection. Then, the emotional flow, or the series of emotional shifts in response to the unfolding story, may promote and sustain continued engagement with the narrative world. As such, influence of the narrative is likely enhanced. We then argue that the heightened state of narrative engagement and its associated emotional states have implications for post-message attitudes, both short-term attitude change as well as over-time change via emotion-driven topic involvement and social sharing. A research agenda for greater integra...
Therapy of neuroendocrine tumors with radiolabeled MIBG and somatostatin analogues

The increased understanding of the neuroendocrine tumors at a cellular and molecular level has led to the development of new radiopharmaceuticals for imaging. Two of the imaging agents include 131 I metaiodo-benzylguanidine ( 131 I-MIBG) and 111 In-DTPA-D-Phe 1 -octreotide ( 111 In-pentetreotide) each having specific localization in certain neuroendocrine tumors. The selective uptake of these radiopharmaceuticals by the tumor cells has generated interest in potential use for targeted radiotherapy for neuroendocrine tumors. 131 I-MIBG has been used to treat patients with pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, carcinoid tumors, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and paragangliomas. The tumor responses have been variable with the most encouraging results being in patients with pheochromocytoma. The dose-limiting toxicity has been thrombocytopenia or granulocytopenia. 111 In-pentetreotide has been used as therapy in only a few patients and has resulted in objective evidence of tumor responses. A therapeutic agent using a somatostatin analogue will most likely require radiolabeling with a β-or possibly an α-emitting radionuclide to achieve significant and durable tumor responses.
A capital budgeting model of the supply and demand for loanable funds

Abstract In the general case, machines have a finite life span and are funded, explicitly or implicitly, by a series of equal annual payments for interest and repayment of principal. The demand curve for loanable funds by neoclassical firms and the corresponding supply curve are derived in this paper. It is advantageous to graph both curves against the annual repayment per dollar of loanable funds rather than against the rate of interest alone. Although supply and demand curves are often related to the rate of interest, the area defined by points on such curves has meaning only in special cases.
Molecular characterization of copper in soils using X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

Bioavailability of Cu in the soil is a function of its speciation. In this paper we investigated Cu speciation in six soils using X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES), extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), and synchrotron-based micro X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF). The XANES and EXAFS spectra in all of the soils were the same. μ-XRF results indicated that the majority of the Cu particles in the soils were not associated with calcium carbonates, Fe oxides, or Cu sulfates. Principal component analysis and target transform of the XANES and EXAFS spectra suggested that Cu adsorbed on humic acid (HA) was an acceptable match. Thus it appears that Cu in all of the soils is primarily associated with soil organic matter (SOM). Theoretical fitting of the molecular structure in the soil EXAFS spectra revealed that the Cu in the soils existed as Cu atoms bound in a bidentate complex to O or N functional groups.
The nature of paragyny in Phytophthora

The nature of paragyny was studied in Phytophthora cactorum, P. citricola, P. hibernalis, P. megasperma, P. porri and P. syringae. In most cases, the gametangial initials arose in pairs, side by side, in close proximity, on the same or different hyphae. The encirclement of an oogonial initial by an antheridial initial occurred infrequently only. The paragynous antheridium was attached to the surface of an oogonium by an adhesion layer of dense, amorphous material. The real difference between paragyny and amphigyny appeared to be the way in which the antheridium and oogonium were affixed together to achieve sexual fusion. Amphigyny was considered the more advanced system which evolved along with heterothallism to ensure successful outbreeding.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation for the prediction and enhancement of rehabilitation treatment effects.

In this update on rehabilitation technology, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a technique that allows non-invasive stimulation of the brain, is examined. The background and basic principles of TMS are reviewed and its usefulness as a tool to inform and possibly augment the rehabilitation process is discussed. The 3 main paradigms by which TMS is applied, 1) physiological measurement, 2) disruption/virtual lesion studies and 3) modulation of cortical excitability, are discussed relative to the types of scientific information each paradigm can provide and their potential clinical usefulness in the future. One of the more exciting prospects is that, when combined with rehabilitation training, TMS modulation of cortical excitability could potentially enhance the effects of rehabilitation and lead to greater levels of recovery than are currently attainable with rehabilitation alone. It is concluded that current studies must focus on the mechanisms of recovery based on the specific structures and processes affected by the disorder and the neural effects of specific rehabilitation interventions in order for the potential of TMSaugmented rehabilitation to be realized.
Blind separation of weak signals in non-isotropic spatio-temporal colored noise with possibly critically loaded uncalibrated arrays

A blind source separation (BSS) algorithm optimal in output signal-to-interference (SIR) for critically loaded arrays operating at possibly negative SNIR is proposed. The proposed technique uses generalized eigen-decomposition (i.e. spectral estimation) of a first-order matrix pencil of spatial fourth-order cumulant matrices of novel definition. The algorithm has demonstrated insensitivity to non-isotropic spatially and/or temporally correlated noise without the need for whitening processes. To illustrate the potential effectiveness of the proposed approach examples are provided involving narrowband statistically independent co-channel signal mixtures of analog and digital modulations with received SNIR < 0 dB, with noise environment and sensing array manifold completely unknown.
Putting the brakes on antisocial behavior: Secondary psychopathy and post-error adjustments in reaction time

Psychopathy is both a clinical disorder and an individual difference dimension that is strongly predictive of antisocial behavior. The present work focuses on a dimensional understanding of psychopathy and recognizes the distinction between primary and secondary psychopathy. Following from the conceptualization of secondary psychopathy as a type of impulsivity which renders an individual less capable of learning from prior mistakes, the authors hypothesized that individuals high in secondary psychopathy would be less likely to adjust behavioral performance following errors. Two studies, involving a total of 104 undergraduate volunteers, were conducted. As hypothesized, individuals high in secondary (but not primary) psychopathy exhibited a reduced tendency to slow behavioral performance following errors. The findings highlight the manner in which an error self-regulation model can shed light on the processing basis of secondary psychopathy and its correlates.
The influence of x-ray energy on lung dose uniformity in total-body irradiation.

Abstract Purpose : In this study we examine the influence of x-ray energy on the uniformity of the dose within the lung in total-body irradiation treatments in which partial transmission blocks are used to control the lung dose. Methods and Materials : A solid water phantom with a cork insert to simulate a lung was irradiated by x-rays with energies of either 6, 10, or 18 MV. The source to phantom distance was 3.9 meters. The cork insert was either 10 cm wide or 6 cm wide. Partial transmission blocks with transmission factors of 50% were placed anterior to the cork insert. The blocks were either 8 or 4 cm in width. Kodak XV-2 film was placed in the midline of the phantom to record the dose. Midplane dose profiles were measured with a densitometer. Results : For the 10 cm wide cork insert the uniformity of the dose over 80% of the block width varied from 6.6% for the 6 MV x-rays to 12.2% for the 18 MV x-rays. For the 6 cm wide cork insert the uniformity was comparable for all three x-ray energies, but for 18 MV the central dose increased by 9.4% compared to the 10 cm wide insert. Conclusion : Many factors must be considered in optimizing the dose for total-body irradiation. This study suggests that for AP/PA techniques lung dose uniformity is superior with 6 MV irradiation. The blanket recommendation that the highest x-ray energy be used in TBI is not valid for all situations.
The synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted furans

Abstract The dianion derived from the oxime of furfuraldehyde ( 1 _reacts with electrophiles at the 5-position of the furan ring; subsequent hydrolysis of the oxime provides a useful method for the synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted furans.
Leaf flavonoids of primitive dicotyledonous angiosperms: Degeneria vitiensis and Idiospermum australiense

Abstract The leaf flavonoids of Degeneria vitiensis and Idiospermum australiense were examined. Three quercetin (flavonol) glycosides were detected in D. vitiensis , and two flavone glycosides and a C -glycosylflavone were detected in I. australiense . Myricetin, proanthocyanins and flavonoid sulfates were not detected in either species. The results for D. vitiensis agree with the general flavonoid pattern for other families of the Magnoliiflorae and suggest that flavonol glycosides are a “primitive” feature in this group. However, the flavonoids of I. australiense were more “advanced”, and its suggested that the C -glycosylflavone in this species is an “advanced” feature. These data also suggest that C -glycosylflavones are a derived feature in dicotyledons.
Skin Burn Injury and Oxidative Stress in Liver and Lung Tissues of Rabbit Models

The effects of burn injury (30% of total body surface area) on the levels of oxidized and reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, and on the activities of certain glutathione-dependent enzymes, have been determined in tissues of rabbit models. Thus, the malondialdehyde, glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulfide (GSSG) concentrations and the specific activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, and glutathione reductase were measured in liver and lung of 24-h burn rabbit models and compared to the corresponding values in 24-h sham burn (medicated, anesthetic/analgesic) rabbit models. It was found that the concentrations of malondialdehyde in liver and lung of burn models were increased by 17% and 29% respectively. Glutathione concentrations were decreased by 29% in liver and 13% in lung, and glutathione disulfide concentrations were increased by 35% in liver and 33% in lung, in burn versus sham burn models. It was also found that the specific activities of glutathione peroxidase decreased significantly, resultant to burn injury, by an average of 35% and 27% in liver and lung, respectively. Burn injury also decreased glutathione S-transferase specific activities by 14% in liver and 23% in lung tissues. In contrast, glutathione reductase specific activity was increased in liver tissues (22%), but was decreased (19%), as with the other enzymes studied, in lung tissues of burn models. Control model studies (no medication, no sham burn) show that these effects of burn injury are additional to effects elicited by medication associated with sham burn models. The data of this study are indicative of a major oxidative stress in liver and lung tissues due to burn injury at a remote site.
The effect of ionization on the light scattering of isoionic proteins.

Abstract The effect on light scattering of progressive ionization with dilution of isoionic proteins has been examined. An equation is developed for the calculation of this effect. It is found that, in the case of bovine serum albumin, this can take on a very large magnitude at low concentration if dilution is carried out with distilled water. If the protein is kept close to its isoionic pH by using 1 × 10−5M HCl as diluting agent for BSA, or if the isoionic point is close to pH 7.0, as is the case with conalbumin, this effect is greatly suppressed and causes the light-scattering plot to go through a maximum point at very high dilution.
On the stereom microstructure of ophiuroid teeth

Abstract The tooth stereom microstructure of 43 species of ophiuroids, from 9 families, was examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. Two basic types of teeth, uniform and compound, are present in ophiuroids. From a mechanical standpoint, compound teeth may provide a tougher grinding surface for ingestion of prey. Tooth types seem to be conserved at the family level, with only two exceptions, and are considered in light of known feeding strategies. Macrophagous feeders generally possess uniform teeth whereas microphagous feeders possess compound teeth. Ophiocomina nigra and Ophiopteris papillosa (Ophiocomidae) possess tooth types that are not in accord with other species in this family. Perhaps genera within this family are in need of reclassification.
Time preferences for life-saving programs: Evidence from six less developed countries

Individuals' time preferences for saving lives are measured in six less developed countries in Africa, Eastern Europe, and Asia using a stated-preference method. The results indicate that individuals' discount rates differ significantly by country, but they are much higher than those estimated for samples in the United States and Western Europe. Also, respondents' time preferences for saving lives are characterized by a nonconstant exponential discount function. We conclude that the discounting practices currently used in standard economic analyses of development projects are poor representations of individuals' actual time preferences.
Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Repair in Wound Healing

Wound healing is a highly evolved defense mechanism against infection and further injury. It is a complex process involving multiple cell types and biological pathways. Mammalian adult cutaneous wound healing is mediated by a fibroproliferative response leading to scar formation. In contrast, early to mid-gestational fetal cutaneous wound healing is more akin to regeneration and occurs without scar formation. This early observation has led to extensive research seeking to unlock the mechanism underlying fetal scarless regenerative repair. Building upon recent advances in biomaterials and stem cell applications, tissue engineering approaches are working towards a recapitulation of this phenomenon. In this review, we describe the elements that distinguish fetal scarless and adult scarring wound healing, and discuss current trends in tissue engineering aimed at achieving scarless tissue regeneration.
Equilibrium states and theory of combustion of the method of Dumas for the determination of nitrogen

Eleven equilibria involving compounds of Cu, N, C, H and O, important in theDumas method of determination of nitrogen, are fully studied. These equilibria are summarized in the equations of Table I. The data needed are given by equations (12), (17), (21), (23), (26), (27), (34), (40), and (41). The heat capacity equation of NO2 is not available in the literature and has been calculated here from the recent spectroscopic data. The equilibrium constants of reactions (1) to (11) at temperature intervals of 100° in the range 300–1500° K are given in Tables II, IV–XIII. They are also plotted in Figure 1.
T cells and erythroid burst forming units in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Substantial evidence exists indicating T cell abnormalities in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). There is also evidence that the T cell is an important source of burst promoting activity (BPA) for the peripheral blood (PB) erythroid burst forming unit (BFU-e). We studied the BPA of T cells and response of BFU-e in normals and untreated early stage B cell CLL patients in a methylcellulose colony assay. Normal null cell cultures grew significantly more BFU-e than CLL null cell cultures. Addition of autologous T cells to normal or CLL null cells significantly increased BFU-e only in normals. Allogeneic coculture of T cells from CLL patients with null cells from normals yielded normal responses of BFU-e in five of six cases. In contrast, allogeneic coculture of normal T cells with CLL null cells yielded a normal response in only one of six studies. Furthermore, adding increasing quantities of autologous or normal allogeneic T cells to CLL null cells did not augment the BFU-e response. Accounting for the expanded lymphocyte pool in CLL, BFU-e are decreased in concentration but the absolute number is normal or increased. The decrease in concentration could be secondary to expansion of the null cell fraction in CLL by pre-B cells. CLL T cells appeared to augment normal allogeneic PB BFU-e in a normal fashion, whereas, in several cases, CLL BFU-e were hyporesponsive to autologous or normal allogeneic T cells. It is therefore apparent that in untreated early stage B cell CLL, erythroid progenitor cells are present in the peripheral blood but are diluted in an expanded null cell compartment and may, in some cases, be hyporesponsive to T cell BPA. T cell BPA of CLL T cells in this early stage of disease is preserved.
Breakdown points for redescending m-estimates of location

Breakdown point is one measure of the robustness of an estimate. This paper discusses some unusual properties of the breakdown points of M-estimates of location.
Making Field Trips Count: Collaborating for Meaningful Experiences

Recent studies advocate careful selection of local historic sites and recommend collaboration between stakeholders to create meaningful learning experiences for students. The author describes the efforts of a historical society, a university professor, and a local school district to develop an integrative field trip to a one-room schoolhouse. Discussion includes how content was determined and how the social studies curriculum module provides a hands-on approach to teaching about the past. During pre-visit lessons, a field trip, and postvisit activities third-grade students handle primary sources, listen to oral histories, role-play, and construct a timeline. The author explains how evaluation played an important role in the development and refinement of the module. Teacher and student interviews as well as teacher questionnaires revealed that the field trip effectively connected third-grade curriculum with the history of the Lutz-Franklin Schoolhouse, helping students to develop chronological thinking and...
Pearls & Oy-sters: clues to the diagnosis of adult-onset acid maltase deficiency.

Adult-onset Pompe disease (acid maltase deficiency, glycogen storage disease type II) should be considered in the differential diagnosis in the adult patient presenting with slowly progressive selective lower extremity weakness, specifically of the hip flexors. Hip flexion weakness may be the only finding in the earliest stages of this disease. EMG findings of myotonic discharges occurring predominantly in the lower extremities or paraspinal muscles, in combination with the clinical presentation, are a clue to the diagnosis of late-onset Pompe disease. Testing of all 3 paraspinal muscle levels may be useful in an otherwise unrevealing EMG when Pompe disease is suspected.
Impact of KRAS Mutations on Management of Colorectal Carcinoma

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway is a therapeutic target in the management of colorectal cancer (CRC). EGFR antagonists are active in this disease; however, only a subset of patients respond to such therapy. A Kirsten ras sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) wild-type (WT) status of the tumor is necessary, but possibly not sufficient, for a response to anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody therapy. Mechanisms of primary resistance to such therapy in patients harboring KRAS WT tumors are discussed. Strategies to overcome resistance to anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody therapy, including novel agents and combinations of novel therapies, are explored. Also, the use of anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant setting is reviewed.
Mutational activity in cell line WEHI-231.

The cell line WEHI-231 expresses activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), the enzyme that mediates hypermutation and immunoglobulin class switch recombination in activated B cells. Although both the cDNA sequence and protein expression of AID appear normal, the frequency of mutation at the endogenous immunoglobulin locus is low. In this report, we have tested the mutational activity of the cell line with three different indicator constructs. The first construct measures a composite rate of transversions of C to G and C to A, respectively. The second construct measures only transversion from C to G. The third measures the canonical AID activity, from C to U, which after cell replication can result in a C to T transition. We found that in WEHI-231, the C to G activity is 32- to 37-times lower than in the hypermutating cell line 18–81. The C to T activity is also much reduced, but only 12-fold. We suggest that the WEHI-231 lacks an activity that subverts the faithful repair of incipient C to U mutations.
In defence of priority review vouchers.

Infectious and parasitic diseases cause enormous health problems in the developing world whereas they leave the developed one relatively unscathed. Research and development (R&D) of drugs for diseases that mainly affect people in developing countries is limited. The problem that relatively few drugs are available for diseases that cause an enormous burden of disease in the developing world is called the ‘availability problem’. In recent years, the availability problem has received quite a bit of attention. A number of proposals have been fielded as to how this problem might be minimized. Wild-card patent extensions, advance market commitments, cash prizes and the Health Impact Fund are prominent examples of such proposals. These proposals can be thought of as pull-mechanisms for R&D of drugs for neglected diseases. What has been coined a ‘priority review voucher’ is another pull-mechanism. This paper is a critical discussion of this pull-mechanism. First, the original priority review voucher scheme, as proposed by Ridley et al. (2006), is described. A number of objections to this scheme are thereafter presented. A few amendments to the original scheme are then suggested, and it is argued that with these amendments in place, the priority review voucher scheme constitutes an attractive way of stimulating R&D of drugs for neglected diseases.
Spin moments of particles detected using the spin Hall effect of light through weak quantum measurements

Abstract Here it is shown that magnetic materials with either microscopic atomic or molecular moments or macroscopic nanoscopic moments, represented by macroscopic permeability, can be detected by the quantum spin Hall effect of light (QSHEL), showing “spin” displacements normal to the interface with greater richness than previously found for dielectric materials. Also, it is proven for isotropic left-handed materials (LHMs), which rely upon magnetic action, that they do not display altered QSHEL results compared to their right-handed material (RHM) cousins which do.
Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Definitions, Epidemiology, and Implications

Contrast-induced nephropathy, now termed contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI), has been a long-recognized complication of administering intravascular iodinated contrast. This article reviews the newest literature on subclinical CI-AKI detected by novel biomarkers, and clinical CI-AKI recognized by an increase in serum creatinine and a reduction in urine output. Both components of CI-AKI are associated with adverse outcomes, including in-hospital complications, increased length of stay, need for renal replacement therapy, rehospitalization, permanent loss in renal filtration function, and death.
Density of intercalated graphite fibers

The density of Amoco P-55, P-75, P-100, and P-120 pitch-based graphite fibers and their intercalation compounds with bromine, iodine monochloride, and copper (II) chloride have been measured using a density gradient column. The distribution of densities within a fiber type is found to be a sensitive indicator of the quality of the intercalation reaction. In all cases the density was found to increase, indicating that the mass added to the graphite is dominant over fiber expansion. Density increases are small (less than 10 percent) giving credence to a model of the intercalated graphite fibers which have regions which are intercalated and regions which are not.
Reproductive experience modifies the effects of estradiol on learning and memory bias in female rats

Previous studies have shown that estrogen affects whether a hippocampus-mediated place (allocentric) or a striatum-mediated response (egocentric) memory system is employed by female rats when searching for a food reward in a maze. Because it has been suggested that reproductive experience alters some of the responses to E in the brain, two experiments were carried out to investigate whether reproductive experience would also alter the effect of E on place and response learning. In experiment 1, 152 ovariectomized nulliparous (n=77; no reproductive experience) and primiparous (n=74; having had and raised one litter of pups) Wistar rats were trained on an ambiguous t-maze task and tested for memory system bias. In experiment 2, 35 ovariectomized nulliparous (n=16) and primiparous (n=19) Wistar rats were trained on place and response plus-maze tasks. All rats were exposed to no, chronic low or chronic low with pulsatile high 17β-estradiol (E2) replacement. Congruent with previous findings, low E2 nulliparous rats showed predominant use of response memory and faster response learning, whereas high E2 nulliparous rats showed a trend towards predominant place memory use. Interestingly, the facilitatory effect of low E2 on response task learning and memory seen in nulliparous rats was not observed in low E2 primiparous rats in either experiment. In conclusion, E2 levels do dictate the rate at which female rats learn a response task and utilize response memory, but only in those with no reproductive experience.
Using Inhibitors to Investigate the Involvement of Cell Signaling in Predation by Marine Phagotrophic Protists

Phagotrophic protists are major consumers of microbial biomass in aquatic ecosystems. However, biochemical mechanisms underlying prey recognition and phagocytosis by protists are not well understood. We investigated the potential roles of cell signaling mechanisms in chemosensory response to prey, and in capture of prey cells, by a marine ciliate (Uronema sp.) and a heterotrophic dinoflagellate (Oxyrrhis marina). Inhibition of protein kinase signal transduction biomolecules caused a decrease in both chemosensory response and predation. Inhibition of G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathways significantly decreased chemosensory response but had no effect on prey ingestion. Inhibitor compounds did not appear to affect general cell health, but had a targeted effect. These results support the idea that cell signaling pathways known in other eukaryotic organisms are involved in feeding behavior of free-living protists.
Comparison of sonographs taken before and after Hurricane Diana, Onslow Bay, North Carolina

High-resolution, side-scan sonar data collected from the middle continental shelf of Onslow Bay, North Carolina, before and after an intense storm (Hurricane Diana, September 11-13, 1984) were used to investigate the impact on this shelf surface. Wave hindcasting predicts that significant wave heights and periods were 6 m and 10 s during the storm9s passage, and horizontal water velocity at the sea floor was 125 cm/s. Comparison of prestorm and poststorm sonographs revealed no measurable sea-floor changes. Distinct spatial patterns representing textural variations between Miocene muddy sand and coarse Holocene clean sand, as well as extensive areas of loose rock debris, appeared similar. The storm-dominated nature of this shelf surface results primarily from its sediment-starved existence and the equilibrium that has been reached with the region9s ambient, high-energy setting.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Central Nervous System Trauma

Dimethyl sulfoxide has been tested in various experimental injuries of the central nervous system in relation to other therapies. It appears to be a useful drug in acute extradural mass-forming lesions, middle cerebral artery occlusion, respiratory anoxia, and spinal cord injuries, in rhesus and squirrel monkeys, dogs, and rats. The data from these studies suggest that in the experimental models used, DMSO is clearly superior to no treatment, and appears to be more generally effective than other comparable treatments. No satisfactory answer has yet been found to explain the beneficial effects of DMSO, but several hypothetical suggestions are offered; their validation hinges primarily on further confirmatory evidence. Further experiments with our present models and alternative research lines are discussed.
Perceptions by Family Members of the Dying Experience of Older and Seriously Ill Patients

Background: Alleviating the problems faced by dying persons and their families has drawn substantial public attention, but little is known about the experience of dying. Objective: To characterize ...
Weak Gravitational Lensing Cosmology from Space

Weak gravitational lensing of faint background galaxies has now been detected and used to measure the amplitude of dark matter fluctuations in the Universe. Recent theoretical work has demonstrated that there is a vast amount of information on the matter and energy content of the Universe available from the weak lensing signal. Space-based weak lensing surveys should be able to reconstruct the history of the dark energy equation of state, determine the masses of the neutrinos, and test the predictions of inflation, all to much higher accuracy than is possible with CMB measurements alone. I briefly describe these methods and the expected progress toward their exploitation from space- and ground-based experiments.
Quantum phase sensitivity to macroscopic boundaries: Al cylinders and wires

Magnetoconductance (MC) measurements on 2-\ensuremath{\mu}m circumference aluminum cylinders and 0.5-\ensuremath{\mu}m width aluminum wires, and their analysis in terms of the localization and interaction theories, are reported. MC oscillations in the cylinders, which persist up to 6 K, are well described by the recent theory of Al'tshuler et al. and imply values of the inelastic diffusion length ${L}_{i}$ that are consistent with measurements made on coevaporated two-dimensional films. MC measurements on the wires clearly exhibit onedimensional behavior. Values of ${L}_{i}$ inferred from these measurements are also consistent with results from two-dimensional films.
Diffusion of deuterium and hydrogen in doped and undoped MgO crystals

Infrared absorption of O${\mathrm{D}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ and O${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ions is used to study diffusion rates of ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ and ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ in doped and undoped MgO crystals heated at high temperatures in ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$O and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O vapors. Crystals doped with H, Li, Na, Al, V, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ga, Ag, and Yb are studied. With the exception of the H- and Li-doped crystals, the diffusion characteristics of the doped and undoped MgO crystals are essentially the same. The minimum temperature observed for ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ diffusion is 1750 K, and the diffusion coefficient is \ensuremath{\sim}1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/sec at 1873 K. The ratio of the diffusion coefficients of ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ and ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ at 1873 K is $\frac{D({\mathrm{H}}^{+})}{D({\mathrm{D}}^{+})}=1.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1$. Complete removal of soluble ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ can be accomplished by application of an electric field at 1300 K. In H-doped crystals an exchange of ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ for ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ results in large concentrations of O${\mathrm{D}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ions. In Li-doped crystals, deuterons diffuse much more readily; the threshold temperature for ${\mathrm{D}}^{+}$ diffusion is only 800 K. The higher diffusivity is attributed to a catalytic behavior of ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}$O precipitates.