cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of a mixture of supplemental dietary plant essential oils on performance of periparturient and early lactation dairy cows

Plant essential plant oils (EO) are volatile aromatic compounds with antimicrobial activity that can alter ruminal fermentation when used as dietary supplements. A feeding trial was conducted to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of periparturient and early lactation dairy cows with a specific mixture of EO. Forty multiparous Holstein cows were randomly assigned to either control (C) or EO-supplemented (1.2 g/cow per day) total mixed rations (TMR). Feeding of treatment diets commenced 3 wk before the expected calving date and continued through 15 wk in lactation. The prepartum TMR contained 70% forage [70% corn silage, 15% alfalfa silage, and 15% wheat straw; dry matter (DM) basis]. The lactation TMR contained 50% forage (60% corn silage, 33% alfalfa silage, 7% alfalfa hay; DM basis). Prepartum and lactation TMR were formulated to contain 12 and 17% CP (DM basis), respectively. There were no differences between treatments for prepartum DM intake (DMI), but DMI was 1.8 kg/d less for EO than C on average across the 15-wk lactation trial. Plasma concentrations of glucose, nonesterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and urea-N on samples collected -21, -14, -7, -1, 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 d relative to calving were unaffected by treatment. There were no differences between treatments for actual or fat-corrected milk yields on average across the 15-wk lactation trial. Milk protein content was 0.15% units less for EO than C. Feed efficiency (kg of milk per kg of DMI) tended to be greater for EO than C on average and was greater during wk 8 to 14 of lactation. Prepartum and lactation body weight and condition score measurements were unaffected by treatment. There was no benefit to EO in prepartum dairy cows. Dietary supplementation with EO reduced DMI in early lactation dairy cows with no effect on milk yield.
RAPID DIAGNOSIS OF H. INFLUENZAE TYPE B (HIB) INFECTIONS BY LATEX PARTICLE AGGLUTINATION (LPA) AND COUNTER IMMUNOELECTROPHORESIS (CIE)

LPA, a simplified LPA (SLPA) performed at the bedside by house officers, and CIE assays which were developed in this laboratory are sensitive in vitro to 0.2 ng/ml, 0.5 ng/ml and 1 ng/ ml of HIB capsular antigen respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of these assays were compared prospectively in 106 episodes of suspected HIB infections. LPA AND SLPA are more sensitive than CIE in the diagnosis of HIB infections, especially in non-meningitic disease (p = 0.005). The LPA assay is simple enough for bedside use, specific, and will detect almost all invasive HIB infections.
Attachment Style and Tolerance for Ambiguity Effects on Relational Repair Message Interpretation Among Remarrieds

This study examined the role of the dispositional variables of attachment style and tolerance for ambiguity on the interpretation of relational repair messages. Respondents completed questionnaires that measured attachment style and tolerance for ambiguity and made interpretations of hypothetical repair messages from their spouses with varying levels of equivocation. The resulting interpretations were measured along the dimensions of honesty, competence, and politeness using Likert-type scales. Regression and multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs) demonstrated that both of the traits influenced the interpretation of repair messages, although in somewhat different ways and along different dimensions.
The use of image analysis in the characterization of partially oriented ceramic matrix composites

Abstract Two methods were used to determine the in-plane orientation of Al2O2 platelets in slip-cast ceramic composites relative to the casting surface. The first used the ferrets applied to the platelets by an image analyzer, and the second involved a manually applied direction for the platelet axes. Most platelets were oriented more closely to the plane of the casting surface than to the casting direction. The manual method suggested much greater orientation of the platelets parallel to the casting surface. Further analysis of the image analysis results, in terms of aspect ratio, suggested that this was due to the fact that the manual method could not assign an orientation direction for platelet sections with small aspect ratios. This was further compounded by an aspect ratio dependence of platelet orientation.
Concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead and zinc in surface waters of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean — A comparison of Go-flo and teflon water samplers

Abstract The concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead and zinc were measured at two locations in surface waters of the western North Atlantic. Samples were collected upstream of the research vessel in 1-1 teflon bottles, and in a 30-1 teflon-coated Go-flo bottle. Surface mixed-layer samples were also collected at each location by ship cast using this same Go-flo sampler. A comparison of the three sampling modes shows that all the samples taken with the Go-flo sampler possessed much higher concentrations of zinc (7–10-fold) and lead (2–3-fold) than those collected directly in teflon bottles. No apparent differences were noted at each station in the concentrations of either copper or cadmium among the samples collected by the three different procedures. The measured values for copper and cadmium in these waters are in good agreement with recent reports for the western North Atlantic.
Titanium aneurysm clips: Part III--Clinical application in 16 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage.

THIS REPORT DESCRIBES the first clinical use of newly developed titanium clips in the treatment of 16 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. There were no immediate or delayed complications related to the titanium clips. Thirteen patients had good outcomes, and one patient had moderate disabilities (mean follow-up, 5.4 mo). Two patients with Hunt and Hess Grade IV hemorrhages died postoperatively. The average cross-sectional areas of clip artifact on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging studies was 0.96, 1.36, and 1.05 cm 2 on T1-, T2-, and intermediate-weighted images, respectively. In comparison, a matched control group with cobalt alloy clips had average cross-sectional areas of 3.13, 3.70, and 2.81 cm 2 on T1-, T2-, and intermediate-weighted images, respectively. The average artifact volumes on gradient echo magnetic resonance images for titanium and cobalt alloy clips were 1.8 and 10.1 cm 3 , respectively. In addition, the gap on magnetic resonance imaging angiograms from clip artifacts was 0.9 cm with titanium and 2.6 cm with cobalt alloy clips. In conclusion, titanium aneurysm clips seem to be safe and effective and seem to reduce clip artifacts on magnetic resonance imaging threefold, compared with commercially available cobalt alloy clips. Because of this important advantage over conventional clips, titanium clips should be considered for routine use in aneurysm surgery.
Laboratory evaluation of conical diffraction spectrographs.

As part of an ongoing effort to develop sensitive, high resolution spectrographs for the EUV and Soft X-rays we have been performing laboratory evaluation of novel spectrograph designs. We will discuss the measured performance levels of three systems: 1) A "hybrid" grazing incidence echelle spectrograph; 2) a Radial-Groove Grating Spectrograph; and 3) An Objective Reflection Grating Spectrograph for X-ray Astronomy. These systems show the great potential that conical diffraction spectrographs hold for the future.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A Phenylalanine Hydroxylase Gene from the Nematode C. Elegans is Expressed in the Hypodermis

We have identified an aromatic amino acid hydroxylase gene from the nematode C. elegans that likely encodes the worm phenylalanine hydroxylase (PheH). The predicted amino acid sequence is most similar to that of other PheH and TrpH proteins. Reporter gene fusions and staining with an antibody to mammalian PheH indicate the gene is expressed in hypodermal cells. A fusion protein expressed in bacteria can convert phenylalanine to tyrosine, and, to a lesser extent, tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan. We hypothesize that the protein is necessary to produce additional tyrosine for protein cross-linking in the nematode cuticle.
The effect of flaming on computer-mediated negotiations

There is an increasing use of computer media for negotiations. However, the use of computer-mediated channels increases the hostile expressions of emotion, termed flaming. Although researchers agree that flaming has important effects on negotiation, predictions concerning these effects are inconsistent, suggesting a need for further investigation. We address this need by extending current flaming and negotiation research in two ways. First, we identify two different types of flaming: that which is motivated by perceptions concerning the negotiating opponent (e.g., he/she is unfair) and that which is motivated by perceptions concerning the negotiating context (e.g., the communication channel is too slow). Second, we differentiate between the effects of flaming on the concession behaviors of the flame sender and the flame recipient, and the effects of these behaviors on negotiated agreement. Via a laboratory study, we demonstrate that flames directed at the negotiation opponent slightly decrease the likelihood of reaching an agreement, and when an agreement is reached, it result in outcomes significantly favoring the flame recipient rather than the flame sender. In contrast, flames directed at the negotiation context significantly increase the likelihood of agreement, although outcomes still favor the flame recipient over the flame sender. These results suggest that flame senders are generally worse off than flame recipients, which provides an important basis for the strategic use of flaming in negotiations.
Treatment of feline diabetes mellitus using an α-glucosidase inhibitor and a low-carbohydrate diet

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor (acarbose), combined with a low-carbohydrate diet on the treatment of naturally occurring diabetes mellitus in cats. Eighteen client-owned cats with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus were entered into the study. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was performed prior to and 4 months after feeding the diet to determine total body composition, including lean body mass (LBM) and percent body fat. Each cat was fed a commercially available low-carbohydrate canned feline diet and received 12.5mg/cat acarbose orally every 12h with meals. All cats received subcutaneous insulin therapy except one cat in the study group that received glipizide (5mg BID PO). Monthly serum glucose and fructosamine concentrations were obtained, and were used to adjust insulin doses based on individual cat's requirements. Patients were later classified as responders (insulin was discontinued, n=11) and non-responders (continued to require insulin or glipizide, n=7). Responders were initially obese (>28% body fat) and non-responders had significantly less body fat than responders (<28% body fat). Serum fructosamine and glucose concentrations decreased significantly in both responder and non-responder groups over the course of 4 months of therapy. Better results were observed in responder cats, for which exogenous insulin therapy was discontinued, glycemic parameters improved, and body fat decreased. In non-responders, median insulin requirements decreased and glycemic parameters improved significantly, despite continued insulin dependence. The use of a low-carbohydrate diet with acarbose was an effective means of decreasing exogenous insulin dependence and improving glycemic control in a series of client-owned cats with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus.
Shell-Carrying in Hypoconcha Sabulosa (Herbst, 1799) (Decapoda, Brachyura)

Les membres du genre Hypocoucha porte des coquilles de bivalves sur la surface dorsale de leur carapace
Metabolome and transcriptome of the interaction between Ustilago maydis and Fusarium verticillioides in vitro

The metabolome and transcriptome of the maize-infecting fungi Ustilago maydis and Fusarium verticillioides were analyzed as the two fungi interact. Both fungi were grown for 7 days in liquid medium alone or together in order to study how this interaction changes their metabolomic and transcriptomic profiles. When grown together, decreased biomass accumulation occurs for both fungi after an initial acceleration of growth compared to the biomass changes that occur when grown alone. The biomass of U. maydis declined most severely over time and may be attributed to the action of F. verticillioides, which secretes toxic secondary metabolites and expresses genes encoding adhesive and cell wall-degrading proteins at higher levels than when grown alone. U. maydis responds to cocultivation by expressing siderophore biosynthetic genes and more highly expresses genes potentially involved in toxin biosynthesis. Also, higher expression was noted for clustered genes encoding secreted proteins that are unique to U. maydis and that may play a role during colonization of maize. Conversely, decreased gene expression was seen for U. maydis genes encoding the synthesis of ustilagic acid, mannosylerythritol D, and another uncharacterized metabolite. Ultimately, U. maydis is unable to react efficiently to the toxic response of F. verticillioides and proportionally loses more biomass. This in vitro study clarifies potential mechanisms of antagonism between these two fungi that also may occur in the soil or in maize, niches for both fungi where they likely interact in nature.
Tasting the divine: the aesthetics of religious emotion in Indian Christianity

The category of rasa (emotional ‘tastes’) in Indian Christian theology and art offers a useful theoretical lens for the academic study of religious emotion. In this article, two Bharata Nāṭyam dance ministries provide a case study in the practical applicability of a rasa theology that is emerging within contemporary Indian Christianity. The Christian choreographers have significantly altered the emotions of love and peace in comparison with classical rasa theory and its traditional use in Hindu devotion. Indian Christian artists and theologians have also begun to explore and invent additional aesthetic emotions, giving unique shape to their ‘emotional community.’ Important challenges attend the dance ministries as they are currently configured, yet rasa is a capacious analytical category that can shed new light on Indian Christianity and the study of emotion in religion.
Octadecadienoic acids of shortenings and margarines.

A scheme is described to separate the fatty acids of shortenings and margarines into four fractions, the final filtrate of which contains most of the polyunsaturated acids. The nature of the unsaturated acids in these fractions is discussed. It is observed that these fats contain 25–40% oftrans monoethenoic acids and 2–8% of linoleic acid and considerable proportions of both 9,12-cis, trans ortrans,cis and isolatedcis,trans isomers of linoleic acid.
Why Do We Need ADAMTS13

ADAMTS13 is a member of a newly recognized zinc metalloprotease family that has been the subject of intense interest in recent years. Cleavage of von Willebrand factor by this protease is essential for preventing the development of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) Von Willebrand factor (VWF), synthesized in vascular endothelial cells and megakaryocytes, supports platelet adhesion and aggregation at sites of vessel injury under high shear stress conditions. VWF exists in the circulation as a series of multimers, which were once believed to be released directly from vascular endothelial cells. By late 1980’s, much was known about the physiology and genetics of VWF. Nevertheless, three characteristics of VWF-platelet interaction in hemostasis had resisted efforts to unravel their molecular mechanisms (Table 1). First, VWF-platelet binding occurs only at sites of vessel injury but not in the circulation. There are two receptors on platelet surface that are engaged in VWF binding: glycoproteins αIIbβ3 and Ib/IX/V. Much is known about the regulation of VWF–αIIbβ3: αIIbβ3, normally in an inactive conformation, is transformed upon platelet activation to a competent form for ligand binding. In contrast, the regulation of VWF–Ib/IX/V remained mostly unclear. There is no definitive evidence that Ib/IX/V requires activation. What processes prevent VWF-platelet binding in the circulation but allows it to occur at sites of vessel injury? Second, several lines of evidence suggest that the large VWF multimers arc hemostatically more effective than small multimers. What is the molecular basis of this size dependence? Third, in experimental models, high levels of shear stress enhance the VWF-mediated platelet aggregation. What are the molecular features of VWF that enable VWF to become more effective under high shear stress conditions? Table 1 Characteristics of VWF-platelel interaction and their causes
Effect of sodium fluoride on the epinephrine response of liver and hepatoma adenyl cyclase

Die in vitro Stimulation der Adenyl-Cyclase durch Epinephrin zur Bildung der zyklischen AMP ist im Hepatomgewebe signifikant hoher als in der normalen Rattenleber. Sodiumfluorid hemmt in beiden Fallen die Stimulation.
Insights into the evolution and diversification of the AT-hook Motif Nuclear Localized gene family in land plants

Members of the ancient land-plant-specific transcription factor AT-Hook Motif Nuclear Localized (AHL) gene family regulate various biological processes. However, the relationships among the AHL genes, as well as their evolutionary history, still remain unexplored. We analyzed over 500 AHL genes from 19 land plant species, ranging from the early diverging Physcomitrella patens and Selaginella to a variety of monocot and dicot flowering plants. We classified the AHL proteins into three types (Type-I/-II/-III) based on the number and composition of their functional domains, the AT-hook motif(s) and PPC domain. We further inferred their phylogenies via Bayesian inference analysis and predicted gene gain/loss events throughout their diversification. Our analyses suggested that the AHL gene family emerged in embryophytes and further evolved into two distinct clades, with Type-I AHLs forming one clade (Clade-A), and the other two types together diversifying in another (Clade-B). The two AHL clades likely diverged before the separation of Physcomitrella patens from the vascular plant lineage. In angiosperms, Clade-A AHLs expanded into 5 subfamilies; while, the ones in Clade-B expanded into 4 subfamilies. Examination of their expression patterns suggests that the AHLs within each clade share similar expression patterns with each other; however, AHLs in one monophyletic clade exhibit distinct expression patterns from the ones in the other clade. Over-expression of a Glycine max AHL PPC domain in Arabidopsis thaliana recapitulates the phenotype observed when over-expressing its Arabidopsis thaliana counterpart. This result suggests that the AHL genes from different land plant species may share conserved functions in regulating plant growth and development. Our study further suggests that such functional conservation may be due to conserved physical interactions among the PPC domains of AHL proteins. Our analyses reveal a possible evolutionary scenario for the AHL gene family in land plants, which will facilitate the design of new studies probing their biological functions. Manipulating the AHL genes has been suggested to have tremendous effects in agriculture through increased seedling establishment, enhanced plant biomass and improved plant immunity. The information gleaned from this study, in turn, has the potential to be utilized to further improve crop production.
Oxygen vacancy and hole conduction in amorphous TiO2

The amorphous titanium dioxide (a-TiO2) has drawn attention recently due to the finding that it holds promise for coating conventional photoelectrodes for corrosion protection while still allowing the holes to transport to the surface. The mechanism of hole conductivity at a level much higher than the edge of the valence band is still a mystery. In this work, an amorphous TiO2 model is obtained from molecular dynamics employing the "melt-and-quench" technique. The electronic properties, polaronic states and the hole conduction mechanism in amorphous structure were investigated by means of density functional theory with Hubbard's energy correction (DFT + U) and compared to those in crystalline (rutile) TiO2. The formation energy of the oxygen vacancy was found to reduce significantly (by a few eV) upon amorphization. Our theoretical study suggested that the oxygen vacancies and their defect states provide hopping channels, which are comparable to experimental observations and could be responsible for hole conduction in the "leaky" TiO2 recently discovered for the photochemical water-splitting applications.
The planning and control of reaching movements

The notion of internal models has become central to the study of visually guided reaching. Armed with this theoretical framework, researchers are gleaning insights into long-standing problems in the field, such as the ability to respond rapidly to changes in the location of a reach target and the fine control of the multi-joint dynamics of the arm. A key factor in these advances is our increased understanding of how the brain integrates feedforward control signals, sensory feedback, and predictions based on internal models of the arm.
The dynein regulatory complex is the nexin link and a major regulatory node in cilia and flagella

Cilia and flagella are highly conserved microtubule (MT)-based organelles with motile and sensory functions, and ciliary defects have been linked to several human diseases. The 9 + 2 structure of motile axonemes contains nine MT doublets interconnected by nexin links, which surround a central pair of singlet MTs. Motility is generated by the orchestrated activity of thousands of dynein motors, which drive interdoublet sliding. A key regulator of motor activity is the dynein regulatory complex (DRC), but detailed structural information is lacking. Using cryoelectron tomography of wild-type and mutant axonemes from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, we visualized the DRC in situ at molecular resolution. We present the three-dimensional structure of the DRC, including a model for its subunit organization and intermolecular connections that establish the DRC as a major regulatory node. We further demonstrate that the DRC is the nexin link, which is thought to be critical for the generation of axonemal bending.
Effect of fluid-sediment reaction on hydrothermal fluxes of major elements, eastern flank of the Juan de Fuca Ridge

On the eastern flank of the Juan de Fuca Ridge, reaction between upwelling basement fluid and sediment alters hydrothermal fluxes of Ca, SiO2(aq), SO4, PO4, NH4, and alkalinity. We used the Global Implicit Multicomponent Reactive Transport (GIMRT) code to model the processes occurring in the sediment column (diagenesis, sediment burial, fluid advection, and multicomponent diffusion) and to estimate net seafloor fluxes of solutes. Within the sediment section, the reactions controlling the concentrations of the solutes listed above are organic matter degradation via SO4 reduction, dissolution of amorphous silica, reductive dissolution of amorphous Fe(III)-(hydr)oxide, and precipitation of calcite, carbonate fluorapatite, and amorphous Fe(II)-sulfide. Rates of specific discharge estimated from pore-water Mg profiles are 2 to 3 mm/yr. At this site the basement hydrothermal system is a source of NH4, SiO2(aq), and Ca, and a sink of SO4, PO4, and alkalinity. Reaction within the sediment column increases the hydrothermal sources of NH4 and SiO2(aq), increases the hydrothermal sinks of SO4 and PO4, and decreases the hydrothermal source of Ca. Reaction within the sediment column has a spatially variable effect on the hydrothermal flux of alkalinity. Because the model we used was capable of simulating the observed pore-water chemistry by using mechanistic descriptions of the biogeochemical processes occurring in the sediment column, it could be used to examine the physical controls on hydrothermal fluxes of solutes in this setting. Two series of simulations in which we varied fluid flow rate (1 to 100 mm/yr) and sediment thickness (10 to 100 m) predict that given the reactions modeled in this study, the sediment section will contribute most significantly to fluxes of SO4 and NH4 at slow flow rates and intermediate sediment thickness and to fluxes of SiO2(aq) at slow flow rates and large sediment thickness. Reaction within the sediment section could approximately double the hydrothermal sink of PO4 over a range of flow rates and sediment thickness, and could slightly decrease (by ≤10%) the size of the hydrothermal source of Ca.
Synthesis, characterization and biocompatibility of “green” synthesized silver nanoparticles using tea polyphenols

Since ancient times, people have taken advantage of the antimicrobial effects of colloidal silver particles. Aside from the medical prospects, silver nanoparticles are found in a wide range of commercially available consumer products ranging from cosmetics to household cleansers. Current synthetic methods for creating silver nanoparticles typically call for potentially hazardous chemicals, extreme heat, and produce environmentally dangerous byproducts. Therefore, it is essential that novel “green” synthesis of nanoparticles becomes a reality, and it is imperative to fully analyze the potential toxic effects of these nanoparticles. In this study, we have shown that by reducing silver nitrate in solutions of tea extract or epicatechin of varying concentrations, spherical silver nanoparticles were formed that had controllable size distributions depending on the concentration of tea extract or epicatechin in the samples. Our ultra-resolution microscopy demonstrated that the nanoparticles were in fact interacting with the keratinocytes. Furthermore, evaluation of mitochondrial function (MTS) to assess cell viability and membrane integrity (LDH) in human keratinocytes showed that the silver nanoparticles were nontoxic. These results demonstrated that these nanoparicles are potentially biocompatible and warrant further evaluation in other biological systems.
The Impact of Early Institutional Rearing on the Ability to Discriminate Facial Expressions of Emotion: An Event‐Related Potential Study

Event-related potentials (ERPs), in response to 4 facial expressions of fear, angry, happy, and sad, were collected from 72 institutionalized children (IG), ages 7 to 32 months, in Bucharest, Romania, and compared with ERPs from 33 children, ages 8 to 32 months, who had never been institutionalized (NIG). The NIG and IG exhibited different patterns of responding in early latency components. Moreover, group differences in amplitude were evident across all components. Such differences may point to the role of early deprivation in disrupting the development of the neural circuitry involved in the recognition of facial expressions.
Reducing Berreman's 4 × 4 formulation of liquid-crystal-display optics to 2 × 2 Jones vector equations

We use a perturbation expansion to obtain a generalized 2 x 2 Jones vector description that is equivalent to Berreman's description. We show that for typical liquid-crystal displays (LCD's) the bulk reflections are weak so that the first-order 2 x 2 Jones solution is generally sufficient and affords fast and reasonably accurate computations of the overall optical properties of LCD devices.
Some Computational Problems in Developing Computerized Man-Models

Anthropometric data may be presented in a variety of forms, with probably the most common being tabular format. This includes percentile and summary statistical listings and regression equations. This form provides quick, easy reference but unfortunately this is not always the most useful presentation for solving three-dimensional design problems. Design problems need anthropometric data presented in the context of human-form models, incorporating human movement as well as static anthropometry. This type of design requirement by the United States Air Force led to the development of the 3-D COMBIMAN (COMputerized BIomechanical MAN-model) model.
Behavior of Swelling Clays: A Discrete Element Study

The mechanisms underlying swelling of clays during water saturation still remain poorly understood. Swelling is generally understood to result from interlayer forces (in the range of small particle separations) and double-layer repulsive forces (in the range of large particle separations). Recently, a systematic molecular dynamic study was conducted (see the companion paper entitled “Behavior of Swelling Clays: A Molecular Dynamic Study by Amarasinghe and Anandarajah) (a) to develop an understanding of the interlayer and double-layer forces and (b) to develop a forcedisplacement relation covering the full range of small to large particle separations. In the present paper, the force-displacement relation developed from the results of the molecular dynamic study, as well as the previously developed relations for the double-layer repulsive force and van der Waals attractive force, are used in a discrete element simulation to study the swelling behavior of clays in a comprehensive manner.
Contrasting effects of linaclotide and lubiprostone on restitution of epithelial cell barrier properties and cellular homeostasis after exposure to cell stressors

Background Linaclotide has been proposed as a treatment for the same gastrointestinal indications for which lubiprostone has been approved, chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Stressors damage the epithelial cell barrier and cellular homeostasis leading to loss of these functions. Effects of active linaclotide on repair of barrier and cell function in pig jejunum after ischemia and in T84 cells after treatment with proinflammatory cytokines, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α were examined. Comparison with effects of lubiprostone, known to promote repair of barrier function was carried out.
Public Health Impact of Osteoporosis

Objective. To describe the public health impact of osteoporosis including the magnitude of the problem and important consequences of osteoporotic fractures. Methods. Literature review of key references selected by author. Results. Current demographic trends leading to an increased number of individuals surviving past age 65 will result in an increased number of osteoporotic fractures. Important consequences of osteoporotic fractures include an increased mortality that for hip fractures extends to 10 years after the fracture. Increased mortality risk also extends to major and minor fractures, especially, in those over 75 years. Hip and vertebral fractures have important functional consequences and reductions in quality of life. The economic impact of osteoporotic fractures is large and growing. Significant health care resources are required for all fractures. Conclusions. To alleviate the public and private burden of osteoporosis related fractures, assessment of risk and reduction of individual risk is critical.
Killing Kony: Leadership Change and Civil War Termination

Is there a relationship between leadership change and the probability of conflict termination in civil war? This article uses an original data set on the leaders of rebel groups combined with exist...
Debriefing to learn from extreme events: the case of Utøya

The objective of this study was to discover potential ways to enhance debriefing so that more can be learned from the experience of extreme events. In order to reach this aim, [the authors] explored how personnel in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from the Norwegian Armed Forces experienced debriefing after an extreme event. That event was a terror attack on the Norwegian island of Utoya on 22 July, 2011, in which 69 people were killed and 66 were wounded. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was sent to the island to search for and disarm potential bombs. [The authors] explored how personnel in the team experienced their debriefing after this event. Reports of interviewees' experiences identified two relevant dimensions: content (technical and personal) and form (formal and informal), leading to the development of four categories. The main learning points were that although personnel experienced room to share technical issues during debriefing and hence learn from the situation, there were fewer opportunities to share personal issues, and this seemed to limit the debriefing as a learning process.
Researching the researcher-as-instrument: an exercise in interviewer self-reflexivity:

Because the researcher is the instrument in semistructured or unstructured qualitative interviews, unique researcher characteristics have the potential to influence the collection of empirical materials. This concept, although widely acknowledged, has garnered little systematic investigation. This article discusses the interviewer characteristics of three different interviewers who are part of a qualitative research team. The researcher/interviewers - and authors of this article - reflect on their own and each other's interviews and explore the ways in which individual interview practices create unique conversational spaces. The results suggest that certain interviewer characteristics may be more effective than others in eliciting detailed narratives from respondents depending on the perceived sensitivity of the topic, but that variation in interviewer characteristics may benefit rather than detract from the goals of team-based qualitative inquiry. The authors call for the inclusion of enhanced self-reflexivity in interviewer training and development activities and argue against standardization of interviewer practices in qualitative research teams.
Dietary diallyl disulfide supplementation attenuates ethanol-mediated pulmonary vitamin D speciate depletion in C57Bl/6 mice

Slightly more than 5 % of the United States population heavily consumes ethanol, i.e., more than 14 drinks for men and 7 drinks for women a week. Chronic ethanol consumption can result in increased liver disease, reduced recovery from burn injury, and more frequent and severe respiratory infections. Chronic ethanol over-consumption also leads to vitamin D dysmetabolism and depletion. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble pro-hormone that regulates musculoskeletal health, cellular proliferation/differentiation, and innate and adaptive immune response. In this study, C57BL/6 mice were fed 20 % ethanol in their water ad libitum for 7 weeks. Some mice were fed either a standard chow or a modified diet containing 0.15 μg/day of diallyl disulfide (DADS). Whole blood, lung tissue, and bronchial alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected at sacrifice and analyzed for 25(OH) D3, 1,25 (OH)2D3, vitamin D receptor VDR, CYP2E1, and CYP27B1 levels. Ethanol reduced 25(OH) D3 and 1,25 (OH)2D3 in lung tissue and BALF on average 31 %. The largest ethanol-mediated reduction was in the 1,25 (OH)2D3 (42 %) measured in the BALF. Dietary supplementation of DADS restored BALF and lung tissue protein of 25(OH) D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 to control levels. Chronic ethanol consumption also resulted in tissue increases of vitamin D response (VDR) protein, Cyp2E1, and reductions in vitamin D-activating enzyme CYP27B1. All three of these effects were attenuated by dietary supplementation of DADS. In conclusion, the pulmonary metabolic disturbances mediated by chronic ethanol consumption as measured by 1,25(OH)2D3 protein levels, epithelial lining fluid, and lung tissue can be ameliorated by dietary supplementation of DADS in C57BL/6 mice.
Evaluation of surface contamination with cyclophosphamide following simulated hazardous drug preparation activities using two closed-system products.

Purpose. A preliminary investigation was conducted to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two closed-system products in preventing contamination of typical pharmacy workplace surfaces with cy...
Early bacterial and fungal colonization of leaf litter in Fossil Creek, Arizona

Microbes are important in stream ecosystem processes and ubiquitous in stream environments, but limitations of study techniques have left most of these microbial communities poorly described. In stream ecosystems, fungal and bacterial communities play critical roles in leaf decomposition and release energy and nutrients to higher trophic levels of the food web. Our research examined microbial communities in Fossil Creek, Arizona, USA, to elucidate effects of litter quality and abiotic habitat characteristics on early microbial colonizers of leaves. High- and low-quality leaf litter was placed in the creek at 5 study sites with heterogeneous environmental conditions (including differing stream morphology, water flow, water chemistry, and travertine deposition). Microbial assemblages that colonized the decomposing leaves were characterized using terminal-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and clone library comparisons. Our study revealed differences in microbial community structure along environmental gradients and, to some extent, between high- and low-quality litter in Fossil Creek. Leaf decomposition rates were strongly influenced by both litter quality and abiotic site characteristics, but microbial communities were more strongly influenced by site than by litter quality. Bacterial and fungal communities differed with incubation times: bacterial diversity increased between 2-d and 8- to 9-d incubations, whereas fungal diversity decreased. Fungal community diversity was negatively correlated with decomposition rates after incubation in the creek for 2 d when the community still included nonaquatic fungi, but this relationship did not exist after longer incubation. Bacterial community diversity was not related to litter quality or decomposition rates.
Phytosphingosines — a facile synthesis and spectroscopic protocol for configurational assignment

Abstract A facile synthesis of four of the eight configurational isomers of phytosphingosine has been performed by employing Wittig and Julia olefination followed by Sharpless dihydroxylation. The set of these four stereoisomers served as model compounds for developing general chemical/CD/NMR protocols for assigning relative and absolute configurations of all phytosphingosine isomers. The procedure is based on a two-step derivatization to 2-N-naphthimide- 1,3,4-O-trinaphthoate derivatives which gives rise to unique exciton coupled circular dichroic and 1H-NMR spectra in selected solvents. The spectra can be used as reference data for assignment of relative as well as absolute configurations of phytosphingosine isomers and congeners at the low-nanomole level.
Desmosomes: Regulators of Cellular Signaling and Adhesion in Epidermal Health and Disease

Desmosomes are intercellular junctions that mediate cell-cell adhesion and anchor the intermediate filament network to the plasma membrane, providing mechanical resilience to tissues such as the epidermis and heart. In addition to their critical roles in adhesion, desmosomal proteins are emerging as mediators of cell signaling important for proper cell and tissue functions. In this review we highlight what is known about desmosomal proteins regulating adhesion and signaling in healthy skin-in morphogenesis, differentiation and homeostasis, wound healing, and protection against environmental damage. We also discuss how human diseases that target desmosome molecules directly or interfere indirectly with these mechanical and signaling functions to contribute to pathogenesis.
Latex allergy: recognition and management of a modern problem

Within the past decade, anaphylaxis from latex products has been a recognized clinical crisis. Immediately after contact with latex, the patient can experience urticaria, nasorhinitis, conjunctivitis, asthma, hypotension, and shock. Health care workers, children with spina bifida, patients with a history of urogenital procedures, and employees of rubber manufacturing plants have the highest incidence. The most common denominators include frequent contact with latex and a history of allergies, although cases without these components have been reported. The increased incidence is linked to the increase of glove and condom use in preventing the spread of the HIV virus. Sensitization to the natural rubber protein is the allergen, although the specific protein has not been isolated. A thorough medical and surgical history and a history of previous allergies and allergic events should be collected on all patients with complaints of any latex contact symptoms. Latex-sensitive patients should wear a Medic Alert bracelet and carry an epinephrine autoinjector kit. Health care providers must be alert for the possible occurrence of latex sensitivities in their patients.
Metaphysica Generalis in Aristotle

We found the tripartition of theoretical knowledge to correspond with a tripartition of being into physicals, mathematicals (= soul, world-soul), and theologicals. In this context, mathematics was a study of things subsisting and was considered to be such even by the early Aristotle. What is true for mathematics should be true a fortiori for first philosophy. We may expect its objects to subsist to an even higher degree than do mathematicals. And indeed, first philosophy is frequently designated by Aristotle as theology. Who could doubt that theologicals subsist ?
Anatomists debate the value of a teaching credential

Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OhioFewer and fewer programs are training graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in theclassical anatomical disciplines. Nonetheless, there remains a need at all levels of clinicaland basic science education for skilled instructors of anatomy, histology, and embryology.Two sessions at the 2006 annual meeting of the American Association of Anatomists(AAA) explored whether a system of accreditation would beneﬁt students, institutions,and training programs. Although the value of accreditation was controversial, three chal-lenges for the various anatomical societies emerged from these discussions: (1) To identifythe skills and knowledge that should be shared among all anatomists, and the more spe-ciﬁc skills and knowledge needed for the diverse settings in which anatomists work. (2)To address the historical inattention of institutions to the training of educators. (3) To de-velop strategies to lobby institutions and national organizations to support the trainingand work of educators in the anatomical sciences. One approach to meeting these chal-lenges would be to develop guidelines for training programs. These guidelines would helpgraduate students seek the training they need, provide institutions with a benchmark toassess or develop training programs, and provide the basis for focusing lobbying effortstargeted at institutions or existing accreditation bodies.
Reliability analysis of power gated SRAM under combined effects of NBTI and PBTI in nano-scale CMOS

Transistor aging effects (NBTI and PBTI) impact the reliability of SRAM in nano-scale CMOS technologies. In this research, the combined effect of NBTI and PBTI on power gated SRAM is analyzed. Optimal source biasing in the standby mode is presented as an effective method for guard-banding against the aging effects. The simulations results in a predictive 32nm technology shows maximum of 1.6% reduction in standby SNM over 5 year lifetime. For optimum operation, by decreasing the standby source bias voltage by only 0.012 volts, the SNM is safely margined for 5 year life time. This guard-banding comes at an insignificant power overhead of 0.6% for applied worse case scenarios. Given the insignificant power overhead with such guard-banding, it is concluded that adaptive tuning of the source biasing voltage is not required, given the not so negligible complexity and overhead associated with adaptive techniques.
Ultrasonic propagation in Solenhofen Limestone at high pressures

The measurement of ultrasonic velocities at high pressure in minerals and rocks provides information pertinent to a variety of geophysical and engineering problems such as those of determining the state of matter in the earth's interior, understanding the propagation of seismic waves, and characterizing mechanical behavior of materials that are important in mining technology. In recent years there have been a number of reported high pressure sound velocity measurements in various kinds of limestone. (A concise review of this work can be found in a recent paper by Singh and Kennedy, 1974.) Such measurements continue to be of interest because of the relationship to shock‐wave propagation properties (Grady et al, 1977). From the previous measurements it has been found that the phase transitions in calcite, which is the main constituent of limestone, strongly influence the sound velocities. The phase transitions in pure calcite occur at 14.5 kbar (calcite I–II) and 17.4 kbar (calcite II–III) (Singh and Kenned...
LOW DOSE IRRADIATION of ‘RAINIER’SWEET CHERRIES AS A QUARANTINE TREATMENT

«Rainier» cherries, with and without gibberellic acid treatment were subjected to radiation at dose levels of 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, and 1.0 KGy and held for 14 and 21 days at 1C before removal from storage and quality determined. No variation in fruit or stem color, soluble solids, titratable acidity or sensory difference was noted at any of the radiation dose levels. There was 13% loss in firmness due to radiatlon treatment between 0.4 and 1.0 Kgy. Cherries that were treated with gibberellic acid were superior candidates for radiation treatment. «Rainier» cherries can be irradiated as soon as quality parameters have reached acceptable levels for commercial harvest
HFpEF: is splitting into distinct phenotypes by comorbidities the pathway forward?

Among the numerous comorbidities that can confound the diagnosis of heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), diabetes is among the most prevalent. Approximately one-third of patients with HFpEF have diabetes [(1,2)][1], and as many as half of patients hospitalized with HFpEF are
Sterilization and complete removal of bacteria using atmospheric pressure plasmas

Summary form only given. A microorganism is assumed to be dead when it does not exhibit all of the following phenomena: metabolism, homeostasis; response to stimuli; adaptation; growth; reproduction; and hierarchical levels of organization. Labeling a microorganism as "dead" is not a sufficient description of its ability to influence neighboring microorganisms. There are intermediate stages to a microorganism's existence. A bacteria's ability to conjugate leads to the possibility that genetic information can be transferred from a harmful to a harmless bacteria cell. Furthermore, forward and reverse contamination may result in extraterrestrial bacteria transformation. For these reasons, the prevention of extraterrestrial bacteria conjugation and transformation is an issue which must be solved. Complete sterilization of bacteria and complete removal of its genetic material is a necessary avenue to solve this problem. In the presented work, the goal is to achieve surface sterilization of spacecraft materials with complete disintegration of spores and bacteria, to include Escherichia coli, Bacillus Subtilis, and Deinococcus radiodurans. Sterilization by dielectric barrier discharge and DC glow discharge has been successfully demonstrated to lyse cells, and achieve complete surface removal of Escherichia coli and Deinococcus radiodurans.