cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elastase-induced emphysema: asynchronous bronchial, alveolar and endothelial cell proliferation during the acute response to injury

This study was undertaken to determine whether elastase injury, which results in extensive remodelling of the hamster lung to produce a panacinar type of emphysema, also induces significant lung cell damage. Anaesthetised hamsters were given a single intratracheal injection of 0.3 mg (18 units) purified elastase (Sigma Type IV) in physiologic saline and were killed 4, 6, 8, 16, 24 h, 2, 4, 8, and 16 days after exposure. DNA synthesis was assessed by autoradiography of sectioned tissue and scintillation counting of tissue blocks using injected tritiated thymidine (3HTdR). DNA, RNA and protein levels were also measured. Saline injected and unexposed animals were used as controls. Widespread mitotic activity was induced in three separate cell compartments, the peak of activity in each compartment occurring at different times. The first peak in labelling index was seen in non-ciliated, non-secretory bronchial cells at 24 h when a value of 8 per cent was reached. This was followed by mitosis in Type II alveolar cells with a labelling index of 15 per cent at 2 days and, lastly, in endothelial cells which showed an index of 9.8 per cent at 4 days. The differences between the peaks was significant (P less than 0.001). RNA content on elastase-exposed animals showed prolonged depression and had not regained control values by the end of the experiment. Protein and DNA content, and 3HTdR incorporation showed significant elevations, particularly about the fourth day after injury. Protein and DNA content and 3HTdR incorporation were not significantly changed in either group of controls.
The ileal pouch anal anastomosis: Past, present, and future

Abstract The modern era of ileal pouch anal anastomosis began just over 20 years ago. Several areas remain controversial, including patient selection, surgical technique, use of a temporary diverting ileostomy, aging sphincters, complications, and postoperative management. This article reviews current controversies concerning ileal pouch anal anastomoses and our approach to managing patients who undergo this complicated procedure. (J WOCN 2001;28:32-6.)
On a delay-differential equation for single specie population variations

on considere l'equation differentielle scalaire a retard N'(t)=N(t)(a-bN(t)-N(t-1)). On suppose a,b constantes positives et on etudie les solutions pour t>0 telles que N(t)=N 0 (t), −1≤t≤0, avec N 0 (t) une fonction initiale donnee positive et continue. On obtient des resultats sur la limitation et le comportement asymptotique des solutions
A laboratory study on the formation of nitrous oxide by the reaction N 2 (A 3 Σ u + ) + O 2 → N 2 O + O

Metastable N2(A3Σu+) molecules are produced copiously in auroral substorms by the impact of low-energy secondary electrons on N2 and by the absorption of cosmic rays and solar X-rays at E-region altitudes and below. The major loss process for N2(A3Σu+) molecules below 100 km is collisional deactivation by O2. We present here the results of a detailed study of the reaction N2(A3Σu+); v′ = 0, 1, 2) + O2 → N2O + O, and we show that N2O is formed with an effective yield of 0.6 with a probable absolute error of ±30%.
Compartment analysis of cobalt (II) metabolism in rats of various ages.

Abstract Cobalt(II) metabolism was studied in groups of female Wistar rats of various ages (35, 60, and 116 days) following a single iv injection of 57 CoCl 2 . Urinary excretion after 3 days averaged 66–76% of the dose, fecal excretion 5–10%. In all cases the plasma disappearance curve could be adequately described by a sum of three exponential terms. A three-compartment mathematical model is proposed which defines compartment volumes, exchange clearances, and clearances by excretion. The total excretory clearance is the sum of three components: urinary clearance, fecal clearance, and clearance into a body “sink”. The parameters of the model are reported for each age group. When the results were expressed per 100 g of body weight, differences between age groups were small or absent. The compartment model was tested and its predictions verified by continuous infusion experiments. Further experiments, in which rats were killed at various times after a single iv injection of 57 CoCl 2 , showed that: (a) less than 10% of 57 Co in plasma was ultrafiltrable (except at very short times), (b) in various organs, 57 Co reached concentrations much higher than in plasma but did not accumulate with time to any significant degree. These findings are consistent with the proposed model.
Phosphorylated nutrient uptake by Treponema denticola and other potential periodontopathogens.

Nutrient uptake may contribute to the survival of certain potential periodontopathogens in the competitive environment of the gingival sulcus. This study was conducted to assess the uptake of commercially available, key radiolabelled phosphorylated compounds by Treponema denticola. There was a linear relationship in the uptake of ATP and G-1-P with cell concentrations of 0.1–2.5 mg of cell dry weight. This uptake reached a steady state within 15 min, and at temperatures of 25–37 °C the uptake ranged between 13–21%. At 50 °C, or above 50 °C the assay cells took up 0–1% of the assay nutrients. The maximum uptake of ATP was 47.5, 38 and 47.6 pmoles for serovars a, b and c. G-1-P yielded maximum uptake values of 306, 304, and 306 pmoles respectively. Significant uptake of ATP, or G-1-P occurred at pH 4.8 for serovars a, or c, while serovar b showed a broad pH range for the uptake of G-1-P. Stannous fluoride at a concentration of 0.17 mM enhanced the uptake of ATP while chlorhexidine digluconate inhibited the uptake of ATP. At concentrations usually employed (0.05–0.5 mM) the metabolic poisons 2,4-dinitrophenol, sodium azide, sodium arsenite and the ATPase inhibitor N,N1-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide did not alter significantly the uptake of ATP. The uptake of ATP, by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and T. denticola at pH 4.8 was 13.4, 1.5, 6.9, and 18–20.4%, respectively. At pH 6.5 the uptake for the microorganisms indicated above was 22, 1.3, 6.6 and 6.2%, respectively. G-1-P showed the same trend in its uptake by A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, F. nucleatum and T. denticola. This study provides for the first time specific examples of phosphorylated nutrient uptake by potential periodontopathogens, and that the uptake of phosphorylated nutrients can be suppressed by oral hygienic compounds.
Limb chondrogenesis is compromised in the versican deficient hdf mouse

It has been suggested that the matrix proteoglycan, versican, may perform a functional role during early events of limb skeletogenesis largely by virtue of its spatiotemporal expression pattern in precartilage mesenchymal aggregations. The versican-deficient hdf transgenic mouse has provided the first model to explore the implications of a null mature versican on limb chondrogenesis. Due to lethality of hdf homozygous embryos prior to limb cartilage differentiation, high-density micromass cultures were employed to compare the chondrogenic capacity of hdf mutant limb mesenchyme to that of wild-type. In homozygous hdf mesenchyme, aggregation was severely compromised and neither cartilage-characteristic Type II collagen nor alcian blue positive foci were detected during a 6-day period of culture. Three-dimensional culture of hdf mutant mesenchyme, however, showed that in a permissive environment mutant cells also expressed Type II collagen. Results strongly suggest that mature versican proteoglycan is essential for precartilage aggregation and subsequent cartilage differentiation.
Proton radiation-induced miRNA signatures in mouse blood: characterization and comparison with 56Fe-ion and gamma radiation.

Purpose: Previously, we showed that microRNA (miRNA) signatures derived from the peripheral blood of mice are highly specific for both radiation energy (γ-rays or high linear energy transfer [LET] 56Fe ions) and radiation dose. Here, we investigate to what extent miRNA expression signatures derived from mouse blood can be used as biomarkers for exposure to 600 MeV proton radiation.Materials and methods: We exposed mice to 600 MeV protons, using doses of 0.5 or 1.0 Gy, isolated total RNA at 6 h or 24 h after irradiation, and used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the changes in miRNA expression. Results: A total of 26 miRNA were differentially expressed after proton irradiation, in either one (77%) or multiple conditions (23%). Statistical classifiers based on proton, γ, and 56Fe-ion miRNA expression signatures predicted radiation type and proton dose with accuracies of 81% and 88%, respectively. Importantly, gene ontology analysis for proton-irradiated cells shows that ge...
Development of reactive topical skin protectants against sulfur mustard and nerve agents

Abstract : The purpose of the Phase I Research was to investigate the feasibility of using Nantek's unique reactive nanoparticle (RNP) adsorbents as the active ingredient in a skin cream system for the protection against exposure to sulfur mustard and nerve agents. The scope of the work included: (1) study of mimic reactions with a broad array of adsorbents; (2) new adsorbent formulation development; (3) adsorbent-cream compatibility studies; (4) prototype skin system testing; and (5) reaction studies with actual nerve and mustard agents. Overall technical feasibility was established with the following major findings include: (1) RNP adsorbents are highly reactive and in some instances nearly instantaneously destroyed VX and its mimics; (2) actual evidence of decomposition and not merely absorption was observed; (3) HD and its mimics are partially decomposed by the RNP adsorbents suggesting the need for further optimization of the adsorbent formulations in Phase II; and (4) the most efficient RNP adsorbents demonstrated chemical compatibility and reactivity when embedded in the selected base cream.
Three‐dimensional passive seismic waveform imaging around the SAFOD site, California, using the generalized Radon transform

[1] We apply a three-dimensional (3D) generalized Radon transform (GRT) to scattered P-waves from 575 local earthquakes recorded at 68 temporary network stations for passive-source imaging of (near-vertical) structures close to the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD) site. The GRT image profiles through or close by the SAFOD site reveal near-vertical reflectors close to the fault zone as well as in the granite to the southwest and the Franciscan melange to the northeast of the main fault. Although slightly lower in resolution, these structures are generally similar to features in 2D images produced with steep-dip prestack seismic migration of data from active source seismic reflection and refraction surveys. Our GRT images, however, also reveal several vertical reflectors to the northeast of the SAF that do not appear in the migration images but which are consistent with local geology. These results suggest that in a seismically active area, inverse scattering of earthquake data (for instance with the GRT) can be a viable and, in 3D, economic alternative to an active source survey.
On the Mechanism of Unimolecular Electron Capture

The formation of negative ions by electron capture in gases in which a dissociation process does not occur is explained by a unimolecular process involving the excitation of molecular vibrational levels and subsequent loss of energy by collision or resonance. In order to obtain a proper order of magnitude to agree with experimental observations, one must assume a change of only one vibrational quantum number. This sets an upper limit on the electron affinity. For the case of ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, this limit is 0.17 volt consistent with other observations. The theory also yields a dependence of the phenomenon on the average energy of the electrons which is in agreement with experiment.
Adventitious inhibition of yeast alcohol dehydrogenase

Abstract The inhibition of yeast alcohol dehydrogenase by N′ -methylnicotinamide has been shown to be due to contaminating silver ions present in commercial preparations of this reagent. Contamination by metal ions, which was assessed by quantitative analysis, also accounts for the inhibition of yeast alcohol dehydrogenase by semicarbazide. Purification of the reagents by removal of the metals abolished the inhibition. The existence of enzyme concentration-dependent inhibition serves as a kinetic indicator of such an adventitious inhibition.
Where does the time go

The Society of Neurological Surgeons is an organization with a mission close to my heart and embodies the principles and goals of training that have been the foundation of my career in neurosurgery. My message is not a poignant one but rather a retrospective study of my goals and dreams of a career in neurosurgery and the various forces that have impacted it, not the least and most recent of which is a changing health care milieu. In doing this I am reminded of an aphorism from Larry Pool's book that states "An autobiographical sketch is not an exercise in humility." [2] "What happened to the good old days and are troubled times ahead?" might be the theme of this presentation. My work in educational institutions has been one of my life's pleasures. During the last 2 years of my medical studies at McGill, we were imbued with "Osler isms"-"These [teaching] institutions not only use new knowledge, they create it," and "It is safe to say that in a hospital with students, the patients are more carefully attended, diseases more fully studied, and fewer mistakes made." It was quite fortuitous that I went to Dartmouth College and attended its 2-year medical school. Neuroanatomy was a complex bore that turned all of the students off, especially me. My fortunes changed when I encountered Bob Fisher in the second year (Figure 1). He was truly a "Vox Clamatis In Deser to" (the college motto). Bob was a stimulating teacher and an excellent surgeon who had the uncanny ability to demystify the intricacies of brain anatomy. It became clear that a career in neurosurgery was my only choice. I went off to McGill where famous people such as Osier, Penfield, and the "only" Neurological Institute resided. Ironically, it was lesser known personages who cemented my resolve to pursue a career in neurosurgery. David Howell, a young neurologist who
The endothelial glycocalyx: An important regulator of the pulmonary vascular barrier

Once thought to be a structure of small size and uncertain significance, the endothelial glycocalyx is now known to be an important regulator of endothelial function. Studies of the systemic vasculature have demonstrated that the glycocalyx forms a substantial in vivo endothelial surface layer (ESL) critical to inflammation, barrier function and mechanotransduction. The pulmonary ESL is significantly thicker than the systemic ESL, suggesting unique physiologic function. We have recently demonstrated that the pulmonary ESL regulates exposure of endothelial surface adhesion molecules, thereby serving as a barrier to neutrophil adhesion and extravasation. While the pulmonary ESL is not a critical structural component of the endothelial barrier to fluid and protein, it serves a major role in the mechanotransduction of vascular pressure, with impact on the active regulation of endothelial permeability. It is likely that the ESL serves numerous additional functions in vascular physiology, representing a fertile...
Hand injuries in rock climbing.

c a i l o d n g a s l In B ri ef ROCK CLIMBING HAS gained tremendous popularity in recent decades, causing more people to be exposed to injuries associated with the unique iomechanical forces of rock climbing. In a recent urvey of 205 active British rock climbers, 50% had ustained at least one injury in the past 12 months. Wrist and hand injuries make up as much as 73% of all rock climbing injuries, with tendon and pulley injuries being the most common. This often results from the crimp grip position with the distal interphalangeal joints hyperextended, the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints flexed at 90°, and the metacarpophalangeal joints extended.
Primary Pancreatic Ewing's Sarcoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombosis

Extraosseous Ewing's sarcoma (EES) is a mesenchyme-derived small blue cell tumor, which is distinguished by its rarity, aggressiveness, dismal prognosis, and distinct pathogenesis. Occurring almost exclusively among children and young adults, EES can arise from a variety of organs and portends a rapid clinical deterioration and high likelihood of recurrence. We present the first reported case of a primary pancreatic Ewing's sarcoma in a patient with concomitant portal vein thrombosis. The atypical presentation of this extraordinarily rare tumor underscores the imperative to maintain EES in the differential diagnosis of suspicious, indistinct pancreatic lesions in young patients. In addition, we review the available literature describing additional cases of primary pancreatic Ewing's sarcoma.
Erbium doped GaN synthesized by hydride vapor-phase epitaxy

New and improved gain materials for solid-state high power and high energy lasers are highly sought. GaN satisfies many of the criteria of an excellent lasing gain medium including its higher thermal conductivity and lower thermal expansion coefficient than traditional gain materials such as yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) crystals doped with neodymium emitting 1.06 μm wavelength. Single crystals of erbium doped GaN (Er:GaN) thick layers have been successfully synthesized by hydride vapor-phase epitaxy. By utilizing a thin GaN epilayer grown on c-plane sapphire using metal organic chemical vapor deposition as a template and varying growth parameters including the NH3 flow rate, thick layers of Er:GaN which exhibit the desired Er3+ related emission at 1.54 μm window at room temperature have been realized for the first time. The work opens up the feasibility to utilize Er:GaN bulk crystals as a gain medium for next generation solid-state high power and high energy lasers operating in the eye-safer 1.5 μm window.
Kováts' indices of trimethylsilylated amino acids on fused-silica capillary columns

Abstract Trimethylsilyl derivatives of protein amino acids were separated by high-resolution gas chromatography on three fused-silica capillary columns, coated with SE-54, SP-2100 and Carbowax 20M, respectively. Kovats' retention indices were also calculated by using n -alkanes as standards and tabulated.Excellent reproducibility of the index values were obtained. The usefulness of the method in actual amino acid analysis of peptides and proteins was demonstrated by analyzing the HCl-hydrolyzate of lysozyme.
Transparent contact studies for organic devices

A study of thin metal films as transparent conductive contacts for organic devices is reported. Metal films such as gold (Au) and silver (Ag) have very low surface resistivities and can have excellent transparency, if they are thin. By balancing the surface resistivity and transparency, thin metal films may be used as transparent electrical contacts for organic devices.
Sporophytic recognition of pollen S alleles in the gametophytic self-incompatibility system of Nemesia strumosa benth

Several seedlings of Nemesia strumosa with various levels of pseudo-self-compatibility (PSC) often produced more seed after self pollination than when pollinated using pollen from incompatible plants bearing the same S alleles. Sporophytic recognition of self pollen apparently increases PSC levels above those attributable to modifying genes which interfere with normal stylar activity.
Reactions of bicyclo(3.2.1)octene-2

Abstract Bromine has been shown to add to bicyclo(3.2.1)octene-2 without rearrangement. Epoxidation leads to the exo -epoxide.
Effects of sex and reproductive state on acoustic responsiveness in hamsters.

Abstract —Semi-quantitative [ 14 C]2-deoxyglucose (2DG) autoradiography was used to describe the responses of hamsters to 35 kHz mimics of the “ultrasoands” used for communication during mating. The first study examined the processing of ultrasoands and ambient noise by estrous females, some of which were deafened or hemideafened with plastic ear plugs. These data failed to reveal responses specific to the ultrasoands. However, lateralized responses to the ambient noise were apparent, especially in the hemideafened subjects. For the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN), 2DG uptake was elevated contralateral to the plug and ipsilateral to the effective stimulus. In contrast, uptake by more rostral structures (dorsal n. of the lateral lemniscus=DNLL; ventral n. of the lateral lemniscus=VNLL; central n. of the inferior colliculus=CIC; medial geniculate n.) was elevated contralateral to the stimulus. A second experiment examined the responses of intact or castrated male and female hamsters to unilaterally presented ultrasoands and ambient noise. As before, relative levels of 2DG uptake differed across hemispheres for structures including the VCN, trapezoid body, VNLL, DNLL, and CIC. More surprisingly, intact females showed more 2DG uptake than males in the DNLL, auditory nerve, and lateral lemniscus. Females also tended to show elevated anterior hypothalamic uptake, but just in the hemisphere contralateral to the stimulus. These results suggest that male and female hamsters differ in acoustic responsiveness, and that this difference is mediated by hormonal effects at several brainstem components of the central auditory system.
Background and bleaching adaptation in luminosity type horizontal cells in the isolated turtle retina.

1. The effects of background illumination and bleached photopigment on luminosity type horizontal cells were studied in the isolated turtle retina. 2. Background illumination, which produced less than 60% bleaching, hyperpolarized and desensitized the horizontal cells to a degree which depended upon the background intensity. The desensitization of horizontal cells by these backgrounds is described by a Weber-Fechner type relationship. This desensitization primarily reflects the activation of a 'gain reduction' mechanism and cannot be accounted for by 'response compression'. 3. Following the termination of these backgrounds, horizontal cell sensitivity partially recovered but did not return to the pre-background, dark-adapted level. This desensitization was attributed to the presence of bleached photoproducts which were produced by the background exposure. 4. Application of very bright backgrounds caused the horizontal cells to initially hyperpolarize, and then to gradually depolarize towards the dark-adapted level along an exponential time course which appeared to reflect the decreased quantal catching associated with very high levels of photopigment bleaching. 5. From the time constant of the exponential decay of horizontal cell potential during the bright background illumination, the photosensitivity to bleaching of the cone photopigment was determined to be 4.5 x 10(7) effective quanta (633 nm) microns-2. 6. After termination of bright backgrounds which bleached more than 99% of the cone photopigment, the horizontal cell sensitivity increased linearly with time and after 25 min reached a level which was about 15% of the pre-background sensitivity. 7. Bleached photopigment reduces light sensitivity via at least two different mechanisms. For moderate degrees of bleaching (less than 95%), the presence of bleached photoproducts plays the major role in sensitivity control, producing a desensitization which is logarithmically related to the fraction of bleached pigment. During extensive bleaching (greater than 99%), the contribution of reduced quantal catching to sensitivity control becomes apparent and produces an additional loss in sensitivity which is linearly related to the fraction of unbleached pigment present.
The nonstationary effects on a softening duffing oscillator

Abstract This paper presents a numerical study for the bifurcations of a softening Duffing oscillator subjected to stationary and nonstationary excitation. The nonstationary inputs used are linear functions of time. The bifurcations are the results of either a single control parameter or two control parameters that are constrained to vary in a selected direction on the plane of forcing amplitude and forcing frequency. The results indicate: 1. Delay (memory, penetration) of nonstationary bifurcations relative to stationary bifurcations may occur. 2. The nonstationary trajectories jump into the neighboring stationary trajectories with possible overshoots, while the stationary trajectories transit smoothly. 3. The nonstationary penetrations (delays) are compressed to zero with an increasing number of iterations. 4. The nonstationary responses converge through a period-doubling sequence to a nonstationary limit motion that has the characteristics of chaotic motion. The Duffing oscillator has been used as an example of the existence of broad effects of nonstationary (time dependent) and codimensional (control parameter variations in the bifurcation region) inputs which markedly modify the dynamical behavior of dynamical systems.
Utilizing the GAAA tetraloop/receptor to facilitate crystal packing and determination of the structure of a CUG RNA helix.

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a microsatellite expansion disorder caused by the aberrant expansion of CTG repeats in the 3′-untranslated region of the DMPK gene. When transcribed, the toxic RNA CUG repeats sequester RNA binding proteins, which leads to disease symptoms. The expanded CUG repeats can adopt a double-stranded structure, and targeting this helix is a therapeutic strategy for DM1. To improve our understanding of the 5′CUG/3′GUC motif and how it may interact with proteins and small molecules, we designed a short CUG helix attached to a GAAA tetraloop/receptor to facilitate crystal packing. Here we report the highest-resolution structure (1.95 A) to date of a GAAA tetraloop/receptor and the CUG helix it was used to crystallize. Within the CUG helix, we identify two different forms of noncanonical U-U pairs and reconfirm that CUG repeats are essentially A-form. An analysis of all noncanonical U-U pairs in the context of CUG repeats revealed six different classes of conformations that the nonc...
The Dynamical and Microphysical Structure of an Occluded Frontal System and its Modification by Orography

Abstract An occluded front moving over Washington State was investigated with serial rawinsonde ascents, aircraft penetrations, raingage measurements and conventional observations. The rawinsonde data showed that the frontal system contained alternate mesoscale tongues of air with low and high values of wet–bulb potential temperature (θω). These tongues included a pre–frontal surge of low–θω air aloft, centered at about the 700 mb level, a low–evel high–θω tongue along the front, and two post–frontal high–θω tongues. The low– and high–θω tongues were of the order of 50–100 km in width. The frontal precipitation was confined to a mesoscale band, 80 km in width, along the front. The cloud associated with this hand was characterized by a vertical circulation similar to, but much less vigorous than, an organized convective system. Cloud microphysical data indicated that a narrow cumulus–scale updraft zone was located near the leading edge of the frontal cloud. The concentrations of ice particles in the fronta...
Molecular weight and protein-precipitating ability of condensed tannins from warm-season perennial legumes

The beneficial effects of forages containing condensed tannins (CTs) on ruminants are well documented, but the chemical features of CT that yield benefits have not been defined. Some evaluations of limited numbers of highly purified compounds have resulted in positive correlations between CT molecular weight (MW) and biological activity, while others have failed to show a correlation. The objectives of this study were to determine if MW of CT could predict biological activity relative to protein precipitability. MW of condensed tannin, protein-precipitable phenolics (PPP), and the amount of protein bound (PB) were determined for nine species of warm-season perennial legumes. There was no correlation between PPP or PB and MW (R2 0.11 and R2 0.02, respectively). However, CT concentration did correlate with PPP and PB (R2 0.81 and R2 0.69, respectively). It was concluded that CT MW does not explain the variation in protein precipitation by CT from the forage legumes surveyed.
Influence of adhesion promoters and curing-light sources on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets.

Context: The effect of different curing units on bond strength of orthodontic brackets is still unclear when utilizing nanofilled composites in comparison with traditional Transbond-XT. Aim: To evaluate the influence of two adhesive promoters and two curing-light units on the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets. Settings and Design: The factors under study were adhesive promoters (nanofilled composite - Filtek-Z350 flowable restorative and conventional orthodontic adhesive - Transbond XT) and curing-light units (halogen lamp - Ultralux and LED device - Radii-Call). Material and Methods: Forty lower bovine incisors were utilized. The teeth were distributed in four groups (n = 10) according to the combination between adhesive promoters and curing-light units. Scotchbond Multipurpose-Plus and Transbond-XT primer were used to bond Filtek-Z350 Flowable Restorative and Transbond-XT, respectively. After storage in distilled water for 24 h, the brackets were subjected to SBS test at a speed of 0.5 mm/min until bracket debonding. The Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was assigned at fractured specimens. Statistical analysis used: Analysis of variance and Tukey test were utilized. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare ARI scores between the groups (p Results: There was statistically significant difference between the adhesive promoters tested. Transbond-XT showed higher SBS means than Filtek-Z350. There was no statistically significant difference between both curing-light units tested in this study, neither between ARI scores. Conclusions: The conventional orthodontic adhesive presented higher bond strength than the nanofilled composite, although both materials interacted similarly to the teeth. The curing-light devices tested did not influence on bond strength of orthodontic brackets.
Effect of electron donors on the fractionation of sulfur isotopes by a marine Desulfovibrio sp.

Abstract Sulfur isotope effects produced by microbial dissimilatory sulfate reduction are used to reconstruct the coupled cycling of carbon and sulfur through geologic time, to constrain the evolution of sulfur-based metabolisms, and to track the oxygenation of Earth’s surface. In this study, we investigate how the coupling of carbon and sulfur metabolisms in batch and continuous cultures of a recently isolated marine sulfate reducing bacterium DMSS-1, a Desulfovibrio sp., influences the fractionation of sulfur isotopes. DMSS-1 grown in batch culture on seven different electron donors (ethanol, glycerol, fructose, glucose, lactate, malate and pyruvate) fractionates 34S/32S ratio from 6‰ to 44‰, demonstrating that the fractionations by an actively growing culture of a single incomplete oxidizing sulfate reducing microbe can span almost the entire range of previously reported values in defined cultures. The magnitude of isotope effect correlates well with cell specific sulfate reduction rates (from 0.7 to 26.1 fmol/cell/day). DMSS-1 grown on lactate in continuous culture produces a larger isotope effect (21–37‰) than the lactate-grown batch culture (6‰), indicating that the isotope effect also depends on the supply rate of the electron donor and microbial growth rate. The largest isotope effect in continuous culture is accompanied by measurable changes in cell length and cellular yield that suggest starvation. The use of multiple sulfur isotopes in the model of metabolic fluxes of sulfur shows that the loss of sulfate from the cell and the intracellular reoxidation of reduced sulfur species contribute to the increase in isotope effects in a correlated manner. Isotope fractionations produced during sulfate reduction in the pure culture of DMSS-1 expand the previously reported range of triple sulfur isotope effects (32S, 33S, and 34S) by marine sulfate reducing bacteria, implying that microbial sulfur disproportionation may have a smaller 33S isotopic fingerprint than previously thought.
Low-thiamine diet increases mammary tumor latency in FVB/N-Tg(MMTVneu) mice.

We have previously described the down-regulation of thiamine transporter gene expression in breast cancer, and others have shown an epidemiologic relationship between obesity and breast cancer. To ...
Critical review: Richard B. Brandt, A Theory of the Good and the Right

To sum up. Doubts can be raised about cognitive psychoterapy. The charge of utopianism may apply in part. And a few quibbles are possible about other points. This hardly detracts from the enormous achievement of the book, which really sets a new standard for the subject, in my opinion. Brandt makes abundantly clear the importance and usefulness of trying to state issues in neutral nonmoral terminology in a way that permits them to be answered but also allows one to understand why one might be interested in the answers. He shows how psychological theory can be applied in philosophy in unsuspected ways. He greatly advances our understanding of the sorts of criticisms that actions are subject to, and therefore advances our understanding of practical reasons. He provides an excellent account of what a morality is. He raises an important issue about desire satisfaction versions of utilitarianism and presents a plausible theory concerning the measurement of a group's total happiness.
The effect of personality type on team performance

Develops a model of the theoretical impact of individual personality differences on the productivity of information systems (IS) development teams, then illustrates that impact by presenting a case example. Following a discussion of team composition and MBTI personality types, analyses the attributes of two IS development teams based on age, intelligence, problem‐solving ability, task responsibility, and personality‐type composition. In this case there were no significant differences in the two teams other than the differences in personality‐type composition. Determines that the differences in team performance were primarily caused by differences in the personality‐type composition of the two teams.
GUARDRAIL END-TYPES, VEHICLE WEIGHTS, AND ACCIDENT SEVERITIES

A study of guardrail end accidents on the Oklahoma State Highway System (1988-91) examined the severity of exposed and turned-down guardrail end accidents in relation to the type of end, vehicle weight, and vehicle rolling and/or vaulting. The data showed that lightweight vehicles and turned-down ends were associated with increased rolling and/or vaulting. Rolling and/or vaulting was associated with increased accident severity. A direct interaction among end-type, vehicle weight, and accident severity was not present; however, the interaction among end-type, vehicle weight, and rolling/vaulting was statistically significant. In terms of the resulting injury and death, the overall performance of the turned-down ends was no better than the exposed ends that they had replaced.
A Methodology for the Evaluation of a GPS Receiver Performance in Telematics Applications

This paper presents a methodology to evaluate the position availability of automotive grade global positioning system (GPS) receivers intended for Telematics applications utilizing a multichannel GPS satellite signal simulator in a controlled laboratory environment. Initially, field testing of two distinct GPS receivers was conducted in an urban canyon environment and a foliage environment to assess each receiver's position availability performance. Test scenarios were then developed on a multichannel GPS satellite signal simulator in order to create controlled and repeatable stimuli to the GPS receivers. The scenarios take into account the actual satellite constellations at the same day, time, and locations of the field data collections. Furthermore, the number of visible satellites and power levels was adjusted in order to stimulate the hardware tracking sensitivity, hardware acquisition sensitivity, dynamic range, and navigation filter design, all of which impact position availability for GPS receivers. Quantitative results demonstrated good correlation between the results obtained using the developed test scenarios and the results from the field testing. The proposed methodology will result in reducing validation cost and time to market for automotive Telematics products
Efficiently Computing Tensor Eigenvalues on a GPU

The tensor eigenproblem has many important applications, generating both mathematical and application-specific interest in the properties of tensor eigenpairs and methods for computing them. A tensor is an $m$-way array, generalizing the concept of a matrix (a 2-way array). Kolda and Mayo have recently introduced a generalization of the matrix power method for computing real-valued tensor eigenpairs of symmetric tensors. In this work, we present an efficient implementation of their algorithm, exploiting symmetry in order to save storage, data movement, and computation. For an application involving repeatedly solving the tensor eigenproblem for many small tensors, we describe how a GPU can be used to accelerate the computations. On an NVIDIA Tesla C 2050 (Fermi) GPU, we achieve 318 Gflops/s (31% of theoretical peak performance in single precision) on our test data set.
Taurocholate induces pericanalicular localization of C6-NBD-ceramide in isolated hepatocyte couplets

The mechanisms and pathways involved in hepatocellular transport of lipid destined for biliary excretion remain poorly understood. Using fluorescence microscopy of rat hepatocyte couplets in primary culture, we examined the effects of taurocholate (TC) on the intracellular distribution of 6-N-[7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol- 4-yl]aminocaproyl-sphingosine (C6-NBD-ceramide), a lipid that accumulates in the Golgi apparatus. Microscopic findings were quantified with morphometric and digital image analysis and were correlated with the metabolism of C6-NBD-ceramide in isolated hepatocyte suspensions and the biliary excretion of fluorescent lipid in the isolated perfused liver. After plasma membrane uptake of C6-NBD-ceramide from albumin at 0 degrees C, the lipid was rapidly internalized at 37 degrees C but exhibited only a modest concentration of fluorescence in intracellular organelles. With 17 microM TC in the medium, there was enhanced localization of fluorescence to organelles and significant recruitment of fluorescent lipid to the pericanalicular region of the couples within 30 min. C6-NBD-ceramide was partially metabolized to C6-NBD-sphingomyelin and -glucosylceramide, indicative of transit through the Golgi apparatus. The generation of C6-NBD-sphingomyelin was significantly increased by TC. After a similar loading protocol in the perfused liver, there was little biliary excretion of fluorescent lipid at 37 degrees C under control conditions. However, infusion of TC markedly enhanced the biliary output of fluorescent lipid over the first 30 min, primarily as C6-NBD-sphingomyelin and -glucosylceramide. We conclude that TC modulates the distribution of C6-NBD-ceramide in hepatocytes by inducing translocation of lipid to a pericanalicular location, most likely the Golgi apparatus, before excretion of its metabolites in bile. Our findings support the concept that bile salt-induced biliary lipid excretion is facilitated by the interaction of bile salts with lipids at the level of intracellular organelles.
Achieving secondary structural resolution in kinetic measurements of protein folding: a case study of the folding mechanism of Trp-cage.

Protein folding kinetics are often measured by monitoring the change of a single spectroscopic signal, such as the fluorescence of an intrinsic fluorophore or the absorbance at a single frequency within an electronic or vibrational band of the protein backbone. While such an experimental strategy is easy to implement, the use of a single spectroscopic signal can leave important folding events undetected and overlooked. Herein, we demonstrate, using the mini-protein Trp-cage as an example, that the structural resolution of protein folding kinetics can be significantly improved when a multi-probe and multi-frequency approach is used, thus allowing a more complete understanding of the folding mechanism.
A switched-capacitor building block for analog FIR filters

A stray-insensitive switched-capacitor (SC) building block is presented that permits the realization of arbitrary analog finite-impulse-response (FIR) filters. With one amplifier per (n-2)nd-order cell (where n denotes the number of phases), the proposed cellular approach is feasible for the implementation of at least moderate-order FIR systems. Since the amplifiers in the presented SC cells are time-multiplexed, the upper frequency limit of these sampled data analog circuits will be approximately a factor n/2 smaller than the maximum operating frequency of common two-phase SC networks. >
Retroperitoneal Giant Liposarcoma

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma is an infrequent, locally aggressive malignancy. We report two cases of huge retroperitoneal liposarcomas. The presence of a palpable abdominal mass was a common symptom of the two patients. Preoperative imaging study showed huge retroperitoneal tumors. Both patients underwent complete surgical resections, and a negative microscopic margin was achieved in both cases. The histopathologic diagnosis was a well-differentiated retroperitoneal liposarcoma. Neither of the two patients developed a recurring tumor during the 1.5 years of follow-up.
Incorporating Azo-group-functionalized Molecular-Junctions between Metal Nanoelectrodes to produce High-Rectification-Memory Nanodevices

This report presents the functioning of a molecular memory device with azo-group-functionalized molecular-junctions between metal nanoelectrodes. These junctions are fabricated by a novel electrostatic-assembly process to incorporate azo-group containing polyelectrolyte (AP) between oppositely charged gold nanoparticles (GNP), functioning as nanoelectrodes. The device exhibits a bistable electronic memory effect induced by charge-transfer between AP and GNP, which can be controlled by photo-excitation of the AP. The ON and OFF memory states were found to have a rectification in the range of ∼5000 – 10000. This study will open avenues for development of next-generation molecular systems and devices to produce novel optoelectronic properties.
The new eukaryotic precursor processing proteinases.

One of the most exciting developments in the field of neuroendocrinology was the discovery last year that mammalian cells contain specialized proteinases homologous to the bacterial subtilisins. In contrast to the bacterial subtilisins, which show little sequence specificity, these new mammalian proteinases are remarkably specific and cleave exclusively at certain sets of basic residues. It now appears likely that this family of proteinases is responsible for the proteolytic activation of prohormones, neuropeptide precursors, and in all likelihood a wide variety of other protein precursors. The fact that yeasts use a proteinase known as Kex2 to process the precursor to the α-factor pheromone has been accepted since the mid-80s (see review, Ref. 1). Since this yeast precursor is cleaved at pairs of basic residues, similar to the sites at which proinsulin as well as many other mammalian hormone and neuropeptide precursors are cleaved, it was long hypothesized that mammalian cells contain a homologous protei...
Interrelation of Hardness, Modulus of Elasticity, and Porosity in Various Gypsum Systems

The interrelation of hardness, modulus of elasticity, and porosity was investigated in four gypsum systems. Results suggest that intergrowth and interlocking of crystals significantly affect mechanical behavior, at least hardness and modulus of elasticity, E. In addition, both properties are related to porosity, p. This relation can be described empirically by the exponential expression E = Eo exp (— p).
Protein phosphatase-2A associates with and dephosphorylates keratin 8 after hyposmotic stress in a site- and cell-specific manner

Keratins 8 and 18 (K8 and K18) are regulated by site-specific phosphorylation in response to multiple stresses. We examined the effect and regulation of hyposmotic stress on keratin phosphorylation. K8 phospho-Ser431 (Ser431-P) becomes dephosphorylated in HT29 cells, but hyperphosphorylated on other K8 but not K18 sites in HRT18 and Caco2 cells and in normal human colonic ex vivo cultures. Hyposmosis-induced dephosphorylation involves K8 but not K18, K19 or K20, occurs preferentially in mitotically active cells, and peaks by 6-8 hours then returns to baseline by 12-16 hours. By contrast, hyperosmosis causes K8 Ser431 hyperphosphorylation in all tested cell lines. Hyposmosis-induced dephosphorylation of K8 Ser431-P is inhibited by okadaic acid but not by tautomycin or cyclosporine. The PP2A catalytic subunit co-immunoprecipitated with K8 and K18 after hyposmotic stress in HT29 cells, but not in HRT18 or Caco2 cells where K8 Ser431 becomes hyperphosphorylated. K8 Ser431-P dephosphorylation after hyposmosis was independent of PP2A levels but correlated with increased PP2A activity towards K8 Ser431-P. Therefore, hyposmotic stress alters K8 phosphorylation in a cell-dependent manner, and renders K8 Ser431-P a physiologic substrate for PP2A in HT29 cells as a result of PP2A activation and the physical association with K8 and K18. The divergent hyposmosis versus hyperosmosis K8 Ser431 phosphorylation changes in HT29 cells suggest that there are unique signaling responses to osmotic stress.
Lessons from Gitmo

I recently returned from a trip to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, where I spent a week at Camp Justice — the site of the Military Commissions proceedings for the alleged terrorists and war criminals who have been held on the base since the “War on Terror” began after 9/11. I was observing military commission proceedings in the case of high-value detainee Abd al Hadi al-Iraqi, who was allegedly “one of Osama bin Laden’s closest advisors.” He has been charged with “Denying Quarter, Attacking Protected Property, Using Treachery or Perfidy, and Attempted Use of Treachery or Perfidy in a series of attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan between about 2003 and 2004, and Conspiracy to commit law of war offenses.” I was tasked with observing the proceedings to ascertain whether they comply with human rights principles and relevant rules of law. During the course of this weeklong adventure, I learned a number of Guantanamo lessons, which I detail in this brief essay.
Applying Quality Tools for Managing the Production of Automotive Parts

The paper presents a frame for applying the core tools for managing the production of automotive parts, supplied to the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM). Those core tools and another quality management tools and procedures are required to be applied by the automotive customers, according with the OEM’s requirements. The requirements in discussion are condensed within the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) documentation. The study presents a way for starting the design and implementation of such a procedure for a tier 1 automotive supplier, according with the appropriate various Customer Specific Requirements (CSR). The study is useful especially for those ones that supply simultaneous for several global automotive OEM (BMW, Chrysler, Fiat Group Automobili, Ford Motor, General Motors, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault).