cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The localization of the anion-sensitive ATPase activity in corneal endothelium.

Abstract The localization of the anion-sensitive ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3) of bovine corneal endothelium has been investigated. Homogenates were fractionated by differential and density gradient centrifugation, into fractions enriched in plasma membranes and mitochondria. ( Na + + K + )- ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3) and cytochrome oxidase (EC 1.9.3.1) were used as marker enzymes for these two cell components, and glucose-6-phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.5) was used to identify endoplasmic reticulum. 5′-Nucleotidase (EC 3.1.3.5) was also measured but was found not to be exclusively associated with any one cell component. The activity of the anion-sensitive ATPase (HCO3−-ATPase) was measured in suspensions that were frozen and thawed before assay in order to expose latent enzyme activity. The fraction containing the greatest amount of ( Na + + K + )- ATPase (35%) contained only 6% of the cytochrome oxidase and HCO3−-ATPase. Conversely, the mitochondrial fraction, containing 40% of the cytochrome oxidase, contained about 40% of the HCO3−-ATPase, but only 7% of the ( Na + + K + )- ATPase . The recoveries and relative degree of purification of the cytochrome oxidase and HCO3−-ATPase were also nearly identical in the other fractions examined. It was concluded that the anion-sensitive ATPase activity of the corneal endothelium is located solely in the mitochondria and not in the plasma membrane. Consequently, any role that the enzyme may have in the transport of bicarbonate across this tissue, which had been suggested in earlier studies, must be an indirect one.
Depth profiling with step-scan FTIR photoacoustic spectroscopy

The increasingly complex and precise structure of modem materials has intensified the need to probe compositional variationsin materials as a function of depth. The possibility of varying the sampling depth in photoacoustic spectroscopy is due to thefinite time required for heat transport during photoacoustic signal generation. Sampling depth can be varied by two methods.If the modulation frequency of the infrared beam is increased the period of thermal transport is reduced resulting in a shallower
Phase separation in incompressible systems

We consider phase separation in multicomponent systems in the limit as the free volume goes to zero. Excluded volume effects are taken into account via a pressure field which implicitly relates currents and forces. The pressure, obtainable from a divergence condition, may give rise to circulating currents. A simple description of the dynamics of phase separation at late times follows. @S1063-651X~97!50504-6#
Precambrian vein pyrobitumen: evidence for petroleum generation and migration 2 Ga ago

Abstract Isotopic, optical reflectance, and chemical analyses of large pure samples of Lower Proterozoic vein pyrobitumens (anthraxolite and thucholite of older reports) collected from five widely separated localities in the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada suggest that in the Lower Proterozoic oil was generated from kerogen and migrated in much the same way as during the Phanerozoic. Furthermore, maturation and organic metamorphism followed the same successive stages that mark the generation and destruction of Phanerozoic petroleum. Kerogens derived from algae and bacteria were deposited with subaqueous muds that ultimately became black shales or slates. Some of the kerogen, however, yielded petroleum, which migrated into fractures and subsequently became pyrobitumen. The δ13C values average −32.6%. (PDB). This value compares favorably with those from Phanerozoic petroleum and asphaltites and is consistent with the proposition that the carbon isotopes were fractionated by biological activity. Reflectance values of the pyrobitumens range from 0.9% for Elliot Lake, Ontario, to 9.5% for Iron River, Michigan, and H/C ratios range from 0.6 for Elliot Lake to 0.1 for Sudbury, Ontario. When compared with the stages of petroleum maturation, these values indicate maturation which ranges from the catagenesis stage through the metagenesis stage of petroleum generation and metamorphism.
Differential expression of alpha-E-catenin and alpha-N-catenin in the developing cerebral cortex.

Abstract Alpha (α) catenin proteins can regulate both cell adhesion and cell proliferation. Here, we characterize the expression of two forms of α-catenin, αE-catenin and αN-catenin, in the developing cerebral cortex and primary cortical cultures. In situ hybridization and immunofluorescence studies reveal that αE-catenin is highly expressed in neuroepithelial precursor cells in the developing cortical ventricular zone, with markedly reduced expression in the cortical plate; in contrast, αN-catenin expression is low in the ventricular zone and high in the developing cortical plate. In the ventricular zone, immunoreactivity for both αE-catenin and αN-catenin is enriched in rings at the lumenal surface, reflecting localization at adherens junctions together with β-catenin. Expression of αE-catenin in primary cortical precursor cultures is initially robust, but declines as neural precursors differentiate into neurons. Reflecting its expression pattern in vivo, αN-catenin is expressed in both neural precursors as well in neurons differentiated in culture. These differential expression patterns of αE-catenin and αN-catenin suggest both distinct and overlapping functions during cortical development.
An immunological study of wheat gluten proteins and derivatives.

Abstract Sera from subjects with proven gliadin-induced celiac disease were used to make immunological comparisons of wheat gluten, glutenin, gliadin, gliadin derivatives, and gliadin components. The antigenic behavior of gliadin proteins was closely associated with their native structure. Although for a single antigen, Gli I, a precise folding of the protein chains may not be essential for activity, the random coil form of the antigen is inactive. In addition, antigenicity is influenced by the type of polar end-groups on aspartic and glutamic acid residues in gliadin. The Gli I antigen, which commonly elicits a precipitin response in subjects with gluten-induced celiac disease but rarely does so in other subjects, was also closely associated with certain gliadin components.
Similarities between β Amyloid Peptides 1-40 and 40-1: Effects on Aggregation, Toxicity in Vitro, and Injection in Young and Aged Rats

Peptides corresponding to the first 40 amino acids of amyloid peptide (β1-40) and the reverse sequence (β40-1) were synthesized, purified, and compared for their ability to aggregate and cause toxicity in vitro to human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y), as well as for effects following injection into young or aged rats. Aggregation of both peptides produced similar sedimentation velocity profiles and resulted in significant toxicity in vitro with no observable differences between β1-40 and β40-1. In addition, when injected into the cortex of young rats, β1-40 was more toxic than β40-1 although both resulted in significant lesions. However, in aged rats the two peptides resulted in lesions of similar size. Alz 50 staining and abnormal neurites were associated with both β1-40 and β40-1 lesions; however, no evidence of plaques or tangles was found in either age group. While both peptides were toxic in vitro, only β1- 40 elicited Alz 50 staining of SH-SY5Y cells. Electron microscopic examination of β1-40 and β40-1 aggregates showed that β1-40 formed fibrillar structures whereas β40-1 resulted in amorphous particles. Thus, although both peptides were toxic to cultured cells and aged rats, the toxicities may have resulted from different mechanisms.
Applying international human rights laws to promote wellness within the community: on diminishing intimate partner violence in the context of western Belize.

Abstract In 1992, Belize passed the Domestic Violence Act to criminalise intimate partner violence within its borders, and in 1996, it ratified the Convention of Belem do Para to pledge its allegiance to eradicate all forms of gender-related violence on the American continents. Despite these legal commitments to human rights, and several decades of work by activists to diminish the phenomenon, such legislation is seldom enforced in Belize and domestic violence remains a reality for over half of the women in the country. Condoned by culturally relevant gender hierarchies, this prevalence furthermore contributes to public wellness-related concerns, such as both major and minor external injuries, and also an accelerated spread of HIV/AIDS as well as non-fatal sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In this article, I will address the specific problems which hinder such legislative enforcement and further complicate the administration of health services within one local context, and I will highlight several str...
Implanted oxygen in NiSi formation

The effects of implanted oxygen on Nisi formation are studied using MeV 4He+ backscattering spectrometry and the 16O(d, α) 14N nuclear reaction. Ni2Si films on Si 〈100〉substrates are implanted with 2 to 3 × 1016 O/cm2 halfway through the film. Upon annealing, Nisi grows with square root of time in both implanted and unimplanted samples. This disagrees with the linear rate reported by Coe et al. The growth is slightly slower for the unimplanted samples. The slowing is uncorrelated with the amount of oxygen suggesting that a structural change due to ion implantation is the cause. During Nisi formation, oxygen is incorporated into the Nisi film without interfacial accumulation, but the oxygen distribution is seen to move toward the surface. This motion is explained in terms of a simple model based on the chemical affinity of oxygen to Si and Ni and the fact that Ni is the moving species in Nisi growth. The shift in the oxygen peak position during Nisi formation enables the implanted oxygen to act as a diffusion marker, thus confirming Ni as the diffusing species in Nisi formation. The use of implanted oxygen as a diffusion marker in thin film studies is explored briefly. Einflusse implantierten Sauerstoffs auf die Bildung von Nisi werden mit 4He+ MeV Ruckstreuspektrometrie und mit der Kernreaktion 16O(d, α)14N untersucht. Filme von Ni2Si auf Si 〈100〉-Unterlagen werden mit 2 bis 3 × 1016 O/cm2 bis zu einer Tiefe von der halben Schichtdicke implantiert. Implantierte und nicht-implantierte Filme zeigen beim Ausheilen ein Anwachsen von Nisi das quadratisch mit der Zeit verlauft, was dem von Coe et al. angegebenen linearen Wachstum widerspricht. Das Wachstum der implantierten Filme ist etwas verlangsamt und ist mit der Menge des implantierten Sauerstoffs nicht korreliert, was auf strukturelle Anderungen als Ursache hinweist. Wahrend der Nisi-Bildung wird der Sauerstoff ohne Anhaufung an der Zwischenschicht in das Nisi eingebaut. Die Sauerstoffverteilung wird dabei zur Oberflache hin verschoben. Diese Verlagerung ist mit einem einfachen Modell erklarbar, das auf der chemischen Affinitat von Sauerstoff mit Ni und Si und auf der Tatsache beruht, das es das Ni ist, welches sich beim Wachstum von Nisi bewegt. Die Verlagerung des Sauerstoffprofils wahrend der Bildung von Nisi verleiht dem Sauerstoff die Eigenschaft eines Markers und bestatigt, das Ni sich in der Bildung von Nisi bewegt. Die Anwendung von implantiertem Sauerstoff als Diffusionsmarker in Dunnfilmstudien wird kurz erlautert.
FIRES, ATMOSPHERIC CHEMISTRY, AND THE OZONE LAYER

During biomass burning, large amounts of methyl bromide are produced. Free bromine atoms can catalyze the destruction of ozone through reactions with oxygen and chlorin. This article examines the role of methyl bromide in ozone destruction, and the amounts of natural and anthropogenic methyl bromide production.
Krüppel-Like Factor 13 Deficiency in Uterine Endometrial Cells Contributes to Defective Steroid Hormone Receptor Signaling but Not Lesion Establishment in a Mouse Model of Endometriosis

Kruppel-like Factor (KLF) 13 and the closely related KLF9 are members of the Sp/KLF family of transcription factors that have collectively emerged as essential regulators of tissue development, differentiation, proliferation, and programmed cell death. Steroid hormone-responsive tissues express multiple KLFs that are linked to progesterone receptor (PGR) and estrogen receptor (ESR) actions either as integrators or as coregulators. Endometriosis is a chronic disease characterized by progesterone resistance and dysregulated estradiol signaling; nevertheless, distinct KLF members' contributions to endometriosis remain largely undefined. We previously demonstrated promotion of ectopic lesion establishment by Klf9 null endometrium in a mouse model of endometriosis. Here we evaluated whether KLF13 loss of expression in endometrial cells may equally contribute to lesion formation. KLF13 transcript levels were lower in the eutopic endometria of women with versus women without endometriosis at menstrual midsecretory phase. In wild-type (WT) mouse recipients intraperitoneally administered WT or Klf13 null endometrial fragments, lesion incidence did not differ with donor genotype. No differences were noted for lesion volume, number, proliferation status, and apoptotic index as well. Klf13 null lesions displayed reduced total PGR and ESR1 (RNA and immunoreactive protein) and altered expression of several PGR and ESR1 target genes, relative to WT lesions. Unlike for Klf9 null lesions, changes in transcript levels for PGR-A, ESR1, and Notch/Hedgehog-associated pathway components were not observed for Klf13 null lesions. Results demonstrate lack of a causative relationship between endometrial KLF13 deficiency and lesion establishment in mice, and they support the broader participation of multiple signaling pathways, besides those mediated by steroid receptors, in the pathology of endometriosis.
Basic Space Plasma Physics

The preface of Basic Space Plasma Physics begins with the question, “One more textbook on plasma physics?” This is insightful of the authors, since that question came to my mind when I was asked to review the book. Space plasma physics, as the term implies, deals with the properties of the plasmas found in various regions of space, such as planetary ionospheres, magnetospheres, and the solar wind. Given the vast differences between the plasma parameters inspace and laboratories, it is natural to focus on the behavior of one or another type of plasma depending on one's needs and goals.
Continuous Varicella-Zoster Infection Associated With Acyclovir Resistance in a Child With AIDS

Acyclovir has become the treatment of choice for varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections in immunocompromised individuals. This article describes a 4-year-old girl congenitally infected with human immunodeficiency virus who developed a continuous cutaneous infection with VZV that persisted over a 14-month period until her death. Initial episodes of varicella and zoster were responsive to acyclovir treatment; however, subsequent recurrences necessitated administration of multiple courses of acyclovir. Lesions became markedly hyperkeratotic, slow healing, and persistent despite acyclovir therapy. Numerous attempts to isolate virus from the lesions yielded only one isolate late in the course of therapy. This virus clearly demonstrated acyclovir resistance in vitro. Bizarre manifestations of VZV infection could present both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Prolonged acyclovir treatment of highly immunocompromised patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and severe VZV may lead to the appearance of resistant virus. (JAMA1988;260:2879-2882)
A formulation of combined forced and free convection past horizontal and vertical surfaces

Abstract The boundary-layer flow over semi-infinite vertical and horizontal flat plates, heated to a constant temperature in a uniform free stream, is studied when the buoyancy forces either aid or oppose the development of the boundary layer. Different mixed-convection parameters are introduced in the formulation of the respective problems involving horizontal and vertical surfaces such that smooth transition from one convective limit to the other is possible; in particular the governing equations for the purely forced and free convection cases are respectively recovered from the zero values of the Grashoff and Reynolds numbers. An effective numerical scheme is developed to incorporate the integral boundary condition appearing in the governing equations of the flow over a horizontal flat plate, thereby rendering numerical convergence possible. Locally similar and locally nonsimilar solutions are also obtained. They show considerable deviation of the velocity profiles from the rigorous finite-difference solution in the region of intense mixed convection, although good agreement exists for the wall values, as represented by the friction factors and Nusselt numbers, which are of primary interest. Simple explicit expressions correlating local Nusselt numbers over the entire range of mixed convection intensity when Prandtl numbers vary from 0.1 to 10 are determined. The separation points in opposing flows are also obtained.
SulA inhibits assembly of FtsZ by a simple sequestration mechanism.

We have investigated the inhibition by SulA of the assembly of Escherichia coli FtsZ. Using quantitative GTPase and fluorescence assays, we found that SulA inhibition resulted in an increase in the apparent critical concentration for FtsZ assembly. The increase in apparent critical concentration was always less than the total amount of SulA added, suggesting that the association of SulA and FtsZ was of modest affinity. Isothermal titration calorimetry gave a value of 0.78 μM for the dissociation constant of the FtsZ-SulA complex, similar in magnitude to the 0.72 μM critical concentration of FtsZ protofilament assembly at steady state. We modeled the reaction as an equilibrium competition between (a) FtsZ subunits assembling onto protofilaments or (b) binding SulA. When FtsZ was assembled in GMPCPP or in EDTA, the inhibition of SulA was reduced. The reduced inhibition could be explained by a 3- and 10-fold weaker binding of SulA to FtsZ. The mutant D212G, which has no GTPase activity and therefore minimal subunit cycling, was shown here to assemble one-stranded protofilaments, and the assembly was blocked by SulA. We also assayed the SulA and FtsZ proteins from Pseudomonas. The SulA inhibition was stronger than with the E. coli proteins, and the model indicated a 5-fold higher affinity of Pseudomonas SulA for FtsZ.
Duloxetine for the treatment of fibromyalgia

This article presents a brief review of the physiologic abnormalities seen in fibromyalgia, current theories of widespread pain, and treatment options, including emerging therapeutics, with a focus on the use of duloxetine to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Major clinical trials that examine the efficacy and effectiveness of duloxetine to date are reviewed, and safety issues are discussed.
Nonlinear theory of a two-photon correlated-spontaneous-emission laser: A coherently pumped two-level-two-photon laser.

We develop a nonlinear theory of a two-photon correlated-spontaneous-emission laser (CEL) by using an effective interaction Hamiltonian for a two-level system coupled by a two-photon transition. Assuming that the active atoms are prepared initially in a coherent superposition of two atomic levels involved in the two-photon transition, we derive a master equation for the field-density operator by using our quantum theory for coherently pumped lasers. The steady-state properties of the two-photon CEL are studied by converting the field master equation into a Fokker-Planck equation for the antinormal-ordering Q representation of the field-density operator. Because of the injected atomic coherence, the drift and diffusion coefficients become phase sensitive. This leads to laser phase locking and an extra two-photon CEL gain. The laser field can build up from a vacuum in the no-population-inversion region, in contrast to an ordinary two-photon laser for which triggering is needed. We find an approximate steady-state solution of the Q representation for the laser field, which consists of two identical peaks of elliptical type. We calculate the phase variance and, for any given mean photon number, obtain the minimum variance in the phase quadrature as a function of the initial atomic variables. Squeezing of the quantum noise in the phase quadrature is found and it exhibits the following features: (1) it is possible only when the laser intensity is smaller than a certain value; (2) it becomes most significant for small mean photon number, which is achievable in the no-population-inversion region; and (3) a maximum of 50% squeezing can be asymptotically approached in the small laser intensity limit. As a by-product we also study the ordinary two-photon laser and find, e.g., photon-number variance and laser linewidth.
Stimulation of sulfate incorporation by growth hormone treatment of cultured chick embryo chondrocytes.

Abstract The ability of ovine growth hormone to stimulate the incorporation of 35 S by cultured chick embryo chondrocytes into hyaluronidase-sensitive material is reported. Growth hormone-stimulated incorporation of sulfate (22–120% over controls) is not mediated by an increase in cell number. It was observed that the stimulatory effect of growth hormone on sulfation requires the presence of a heat-sensitive component of fetal calf serum, which is present in the medium, and is abolished when amino acid concentrations in the culture medium are doubled. Evidence is presented which suggests that avian cartilage, unlike mammalian cartilage, is capable of an in vitro response to growth hormone without mediation by serum sulfation factor.
The Age Structure of Male Suicide Rates: Measurement and Analysis of 20 Developed Countries, 1955–1994

Abstract Publication of 19th-century age- and gender-specific suicide rates (Morselli, 1882, Table XXIX) and similar 20th-century suicide rates (World Health Organization 1956, Table 4) invited comparative study of the age structures of suicide, but Girard's 1993 article was the first detailed effort to construct a measure of age structure that would allow systematic comparative analysis of cross-national data. We replaced Girard's qualitative typology with a quantitative measure of age structures. We then tested the theory that economic development is a key to understanding the age structure of suicide. We found no difference between these structures around 1850 and those in industrialized countries more than a century later. Differences between the male age structure of suicide in the United States and the other 19 developed countries in the 1955–1994 period were measured. We also found that change in the age structure in each country between 1955–1964 and 1985–1994 was statistically significant in 19 of the 20 countries. Over this period the share of total suicides to men ages 15–44 increased in nearly all countries, while the share to men 45–74 declined. Regression analysis using measures of societal integration, the culture of suicide, and the 1955–1964 suicide rate successfully predicted the 1985–1994 age structure in 18 of 20 countries.
Cortical connections of the second somatosensory area and the parietal ventral area in macaque monkeys

To gain insight into how cortical fields process somatic inputs and ultimately contribute to complex abilities such as tactile object perception, we examined the pattern of connections of two areas in the lateral sulcus of macaque monkeys: the second somatosensory area (S2), and the parietal ventral area (PV). Neuroanatomical tracers were injected into electrophysiologically and/or architectonically defined locations, and labeled cell bodies were identified in cortex ipsilateral and contralateral to the injection site. Transported tracer was related to architectonically defined boundaries so that the full complement of connections of S2 and PV could be appreciated. Our results indicate that S2 is densely interconnected with the primary somatosensory area (3b), PV, and area 7b of the ipsilateral hemisphere, and with S2, 7b, and 3b in the opposite hemisphere. PV is interconnected with areas 3b and 7b, with the parietal rostroventral area, premotor cortex, posterior parietal cortex, and with the medial auditory belt areas. Contralateral connections were restricted to PV in the opposite hemisphere. These data indicate that S2 and PV have unique and overlapping patterns of connections, and that they comprise part of a network that processes both cutaneous and proprioceptive inputs necessary for tactile discrimination and recognition. Although more data are needed, these patterns of interconnections of cortical fields and thalamic nuclei suggest that the somatosensory system may not be segregated into two separate streams of information processing, as has been hypothesized for the visual system. Rather, some fields may be involved in a variety of functions that require motor and sensory integration.
Cold Fusion Experiments Using Maxwellian Plasmas and Sub-Atmospheric Deuterium Gas

Experiments are being performed to initiate the cold fusion process in Maxwellian plasmas and sub-atmospheric deuterium gas. Thus far, apparent neutron counts have been observed using a BF3 probe and Ludlum model 2200 digital counter, and a broad 8.1 MeV peak has been observed using a 3-inch sodium iodide crystal and a Nucleus PCA II multichannel analyzer. The results appear to be dependent upon the temperature of the palladium sample, deuterium pressure, and the type of palladium sample used. The results are interesting but not sufficient for any conclusions at this point.
Twin Studies of Multiple Myeloma / Research Reviews and News: Critique of Twin Research; Opposite-Sex Twins and Sexual Attraction; Twinning Rates and Assisted Reproductive Technology; Family History of Multiple Implantation / Human Interest: Book Party: Born Together — Reared Apart ; Morning Sickness and Twins; Sexuality in Conjoined Twins; Kofi Annan: Opposite-Sex Twin; Switched at Birth

A foundation for studying multiple myeloma, launched by a monozygotic twin, is described. Twin studies of that disease are also examined. A summary of selected research studies and news events follows, with specific reference to a new critique of twin research, sexual attraction in separated opposite-sex twins, twinning rates following assisted reproductive technology and family histories of multiple implantation. Human interest topics cover a gathering of researchers from the Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart, morning sickness and twin pregnancy, sexuality in conjoined twins, a famous hidden twin, and a film about switched at birth babies.
The Sipsey River, Alabama: A Crayfish Diversity “Hotspot”?

Abstract The southeastern United States contains ca. 250 species of crayfish. Of these, 85 are historically known from Alabama. Previous studies have shown that the Sipsey River drainage in western Alabama is a diversity “hotspot” for freshwater mussels (42 spp.) and fishes (102 spp.). This is attributed to diverse geologic features, an intact floodplain, lack of impoundments, and lack of urban centers. Intensive sampling of the Sipsey River drainage over a 2-year period resulted in a collection of 294 crayfish representing 12 species. Three of these species, Cambarus ludovicianus, Orconectes chickasawae, and Procambarus vioscai paynei are of conservation concern. Our results indicate that the Sipsey River harbors a greater richness of crayfish species per area than other drainages surveyed to date in Alabama.
System characteristics and economic analysis of the G/G/R machine repair problem with warm standbys using diffusion approximation

Abstract This paper studies a diffusion approximation to the G/G/R machine repair problem with warm standbys under the assumption of heavy traffic approximation. Approximate formulas for the probability density functions of the number of failed machines in the system are utilized to compute the system characteristics. A profit model is developed to determine the optimal values of the number of spares and the number of repairmen simultaneously. Results are presented in which system characteristics are calculated under optimal operating conditions.
Lactase Immobilized on Alumina

Abstract A commercial neutral lactase ( kluyveromyces lactis was immobilized on inexpensive alumina activated with tolylene-2,4-diisocyanate. Heat treatment of the alumina at 500C for 48h was effective in promoting the tolylene-2,4-diisocyanate reaction with its surface. Lactase immobilized on the tolylene-2, 4-diisocyanate-activated alumina exhibited good activity with minimal enzyme leakage. The treatment of alumina with tolylene-2,4-diisocyanate resulted in an approximate 16-fold increase in catalyst activity compared to simple adsorption on untreated alumina. Maximum lactase activity was bound at pH 7.5 in the immobilization procedure. The "optimum" temperature of the enzyme decreased from 45C to 40C upon immobilization. Maximum enzymic activities of both soluble and immobilized lactase were at pH 6.5, but the immobilized lactase exhibited a slightly broader pH profile. The immobilized lactase possessed slightly better storage stability over the soluble enzyme after 68 days at 4C. Preliminary investigations on long-term hydrolysis of an ultrafiltrate of Cheddar cheese whey in a fluidized bed reactor indicated a 46% decrease in catalyst activity over the first 22h of reactor operation. Subsequent inactivation over the next 26h was minimal.
Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions in pulmonary fibrosis.

Pulmonary fibrosis represents the sequelae of a variety of acute and chronic lung injuries of known and unknown etiologies. Tissue specimens obtained from patients with pulmonary fibrosis, regardless of the etiology, consistently show evidence of an ongoing wound-repair response. Epithelial–mesenchymal interactions have critical roles in normal lung development, tissue repair processes, and fibrosis. Current hypotheses propose that dysregulated function of, and impaired communication between, epithelial and mesenchymal cells prevent resolution of the wound-repair response and contribute to the pathobiology of pulmonary fibrosis. This hypothesis is supported by abundant evidence from patients, animal models, and cell-culture studies demonstrating abnormalities in epithelial cell and mesenchymal cell activities including proliferation, differentiation, and survival. This article reviews the aberrant epithelial and mesenchymal cellular phenotypes found in the context of pulmonary fibrosis and discusses the mechanisms that perpetuate these cellular phenotypes.
Irradiated Lithium Fluoride as an Optical Filter in the Far Ultra-Violet

PHOTOCHEMICAL studies of aqueous solutions of organic compounds are being carried out at this Laboratory using the 1849 A. radiation emitted by a low-pressure mercury resonance lamp. It has been found necessary to eliminate the contribution of the intense 2537 A. line emitted by such a source. This has been done by using a filter of irradiated lithium fluoride. The idea of using this material as the filter for mercury resonance radiation was suggested tous by P. Yuster of this Laboratory. The absorption spectrum of X-irradiated lithium fluoride shows a sharp band with a maximum at 2420 A. due to the formation of F-centres in the crystal1. Even with complete absorption at this wave-length, the transmission of the irradiated crystal remains high at 1849 A.
Two-Phase Flow Distribution to Tubes of Parallel Flow Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers

Abstract This paper addresses two-phase flow distribution phenomena in multiple header–tube junctions used in heat exchangers. Because of phase separation, it is very difficult to obtain uniform two-phase flow distribution to the branch tubes. The flow distribution is strongly influenced by the header orientation (horizontal or vertical) and the number of branch tubes. Other factors that influence the flow distribution are the flow direction in the header (upflow or downflow), the header shape and tube end projection into the header, and the location and orientation of the inlet and exit connections. The source of maldistribution is the flow in the dividing headers. Work performed by the authors and others (including patents) are discussed. The possibilities for eliminating two-phase flow maldistribution are identified and discussed. This investigation shows that solutions, which provide uniform flow distribution, are very design-specific. Change of the geometry or operating parameters will require modifi...
Open-label pilot study of bupropion plus bromocriptine for treatment of cocaine dependence.

Combinations of medications are often used in neuropsychiatry to enhance treatment efficacy. This 8-week, open-label study tested the combination of bupropion (≤300 mg) and bromocriptine (≤7.5 mg) daily in 34 cocaine-dependent (DSM-IIIR) outpatients also receiving weekly individual counseling. The first 18 subjects spent one week at maximum dose; the next 16 spent three weeks. Both groups showed significant reductions in self-reported cocaine use, with no significant change in proportion of urine toxicology tests positive for cocaine. There were no significant differences in outcome between groups. These results suggest that the combination of bupropion and bromocriptine is safe in cocaine addicts, but provide ambiguous evidence of its efficacy.
Stenting of femoropopliteal lesions using interwoven nitinol stents

Objective The Supera stent (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Ill) has a unique biomimetic design allowing axial and longitudinal flexibility and fracture resistance. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the midterm patency of Supera stents used to treat patients with superficial femoral and popliteal arterial disease by a single practice. Methods From April 2010 to December 2011, 53 patients and 59 limbs with symptomatic femoropopliteal lesions underwent angioplasty and stenting with the Supera stent. Five patients had no follow-up and were excluded. Demographics of the patients, radiographic images, morphologic features of the lesions, procedural reports, reinterventions, and follow-up clinical visit notes were reviewed. Primary patency was defined as clinical resolution of symptoms with no secondary interventions. Primary and secondary patency rates at 12, 24, and 36 months were estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results A total of 48 patients (42 men, six women; 54 limbs; mean age, 64.3 years [range, 51-87]) received Supera stents and had at least one follow-up visit as part of their treatment for femoropopliteal disease. Primary indications for intervention included claudication, rest pain, and tissue loss, at rates of 54% (29 of 54), 26% (14 of 54), and 20% (11 of 54), respectively; 22% of lesions were TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus type A or B and 78% were type C or D. Mean lesion length was 24.0 cm (range, 3-51). Mean follow-up was 27.5 months (range, 1-45). The ankle-brachial index increased from 0.58 ± 0.20 preoperatively to 0.77 ± 0.18 postoperatively ( P = .00004). Primary, primary assisted, and secondary patency rates at latest follow-up were 79.6%, 88.9%, and 92.3%, respectively. Cumulative primary patency rates by Kaplan-Meier analysis at 12, 24, and 36 months were 85.6%, 83.1%, and 76.7%, respectively. Secondary patency rates by Kaplan-Meier estimates at 12, 24, and 36 months were 93.8%, 93.8%, and 89.3%, respectively. No stent fractures were found at the time of any reinterventions. Long lesions >30 cm (n = 18) showed equivalent patency to lesions of 1 to 15 cm (n = 18) and lesions 15 to 30 cm in length (n = 18). Conclusions Our midterm results show that Supera stents are durable in treating femoropopliteal lesions, with notably high patency rates in patients with long lesion lengths.
Lines In Space--Part 6: Our Friend the Hyperbolic Paraboloid

A hyperbolic paraboloid is a rather fancy name for a second-order surface more commonly called a saddle point. Three mutually skew lines in space K,L and M determine a unique hyperbolic paraboloid in which they are all embedded. We discuss about the construction of two-and three-line construction geometry. The implicit equation and the parametric equation for one of the two families of embedded lines sweeping out the surface is explained. for this is represented. We explain in detail about the lines in space and their geometric relationship.
Improving care of upper respiratory infections among Latino Early Head Start parents.

Misconceptions about upper respiratory infections (URI) and their treatment are widely held, especially among Latino parents, and are associated with increased health care visits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends community based interventions to educate families about URI. We designed a community-based, culturally competent health literacy intervention regarding URI, which was pilot tested with Latino Early Head Start (EHS) parents. In depth interviews were conducted to understand parents’ perceptions. A paired-sample Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to assess change in pre-post knowledge/attitudes scores. Changes in care practices are described. Parents were very positive about this education, were open to non-antibiotic URI care, and reported that materials were helpful. Following the intervention, the mean composite knowledge/attitude score increased from 4.1 (total: 10) to 6.6 (P < .05). Families also reported improved care practices. EHS sites are promising locations for health literacy interventions regarding URI.
Characterization of Indoor Particle Sources Using Continuous Mass and Size Monitors

A comprehensive indoor particle characterization study was conducted in nine Boston-area homes in 1998 in order to characterize sources of PM in indoor environments. State-of-the-art sampling methodologies were used to obtain continuous PM2.5 concentration and size distribution particulate data for both indoor and outdoor air. Study homes, five of which were sampled during two seasons, were monitored over week-long periods. Among other data collected during the extensive monitoring efforts were 24-hr elemental/organic carbon (EC/OC) particulate data as well as semi-continuous air exchange rates and time-activity information. This rich data set shows that indoor particle events tend to be brief, intermittent, and highly variable, thus requiring the use of continuous instrumentation for their characterization. In addition to dramatically increasing indoor PM2.5 concentrations, these data demonstrate that indoor particle events can significantly alter the size distribution and composition of indoor particles. Source event data demonstrate that the impacts of indoor activities are especially pronounced in the ultrafine (da < or = 0.1 micron) and coarse (2.5 < or = da < or = 10 microns) modes. Among the sources of ultrafine particles characterized in this study are indoor ozone/terpene reactions. Furthermore, EC/OC data suggest that organic carbon is a major constituent of particles emitted during indoor source events. Whether exposures to indoor-generated particles, particularly from large short-term peak events, may be associated with adverse health effects will become clearer when biological mechanisms are better known.
The many faces of impaired bladder emptying.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Impaired bladder emptying is a common clinical problem for which currently no effective drug treatment is available. There has been an increasing interest in the condition, and the present review updates the terminology issues, common causes, and potential future pharmacological treatment possibilities. RECENT FINDINGS Impaired bladder emptying can be described in many ways, but general agreement on the terminology has not yet been reached. The disorder can have many underlying causes, including aging, bladder outflow obstruction, diabetes mellitus, and neurogenic disturbances. There is no effective pharmacological treatment, and to what extent drug treatment of the associated morbidities (e.g., diabetes mellitus, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis) also can improve impaired bladder emptying has only been investigated to a limited extent. SUMMARY Impaired bladder emptying may be caused by a spectrum of pathophysiologically defined disorders. To describe the condition, underactive bladder (UAB) can be used as a general term, covering detrusor underactivity as the urodynamic diagnosis, and the UAB syndrome for its symptomatic manifestations. In order to understand UAB, identification of the underlying cause(s) is necessary. Effective pharmacologic therapy is lacking and further basic research is needed to find targets for treatment.
P3-S1.29 Effectiveness of gentamicin for gonorrhoea treatment: a systematic review

Background The development of resistance to multiple antimicrobials has limited treatment options for gonorrhoea. Potential emergence of cephalosporin resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae and cephalosporin allergy in some patients make it necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of other available antimicrobials. Gentamicin is widely available in the USA and is used for gonorrhoea treatment in several countries. Methods We conducted a systematic review of the medical literature to assess the effectiveness of gentamicin for treatment of uncomplicated urogenital gonococcal infections. Two reviewers assessed relevant articles and independently selected studies that met pre-specified selection criteria (including systematic enrolment and assignment to treatment and culture-confirmed diagnosis and outcome). Summary measures for selected studies were pooled using inverse variance-weighted averages with fixed effects. Heterogeneity was assessed using I-squared, which estimates proportion (from 0% to 100%) of variability attributable to heterogeneity between studies. Pooled percentage with negative follow-up culture was compared with CDC criteria for selection of recommended therapy (>95% efficacy with lower 95% CI >95%). Results 18 potentially relevant English-language studies were identified; three met inclusion criteria. Reviewer agreement for initial judgement on meeting selection criteria was substantial (κ 0.68). Two studies used 240 mg, and one study used 280 mg IM gentamicin. Percentages with negative culture after single-dose treatment were 90.7% (n=86), 91.4% (n=220), and 95.0% (n=40). Pooled percentage with negative culture after single-dose treatment was 91.5% (95% CI 88.1% to 94.0%, I-squared = 0%). Conclusions Gentamicin does not meet current CDC criteria for recommended treatment of gonorrhoea. However, if cephalosporin resistance emerges, gentamicin may be a useful alternative agent. Evaluation of additional regimens, including combination therapy, is warranted.
Renal kallikrein mRNA localization by in situ hybridization

Renal kallikrein mRNA localization by in situ hybridization. Tissue kallikrein gene expression in rat kidney was examined by in situ hybridization histochemistry. A rat tissue kallikrein cDNA probe, 534 bases in length and complementary to the 3′ end of kallikrein mRNA was first used in Northern blot analysis to demonstrate the existence of tissue kallikrein mRNA in rat kidney. Then, kallikrein mRNA's localization in rat kidney sections was studied in situ hybridization histochemistry using the same probe. Positive signals were concentrated in the renal cortex at the vascular pole of the glomeruli and to a lesser degree, the distal tubular cells. Prehybridization with the unlabeled probe can abolish the positive signal; the same result can also be achieved by pretreatment of the tissue section with ribonuclease. By using the same technique, tissue kallikrein mRNA was also localized in granular convoluted tubule and striated duct cells of rat submandibular gland. The results suggest a new site of renal kallikrein synthesis at the vascular pole of the glomerulus. These findings, coupled with the previous studies that tissue kallikrein can participate in activation and releasing of renin, raise a potential physiological role of kallikrein in renin release or prorenin processing at juxtaglomerular cells.
Limitations of thermoluminescence to date waterlain sediments from glaciated fiord environments of western spitsbergen, svalbard

Abstract A fundamental problem in the TL dating of waterlain sediments, particularly in the Arctic, is the accurate determination of the level of solar resetting prior to deposition. This study determined the effect of wavelength on the solar resetting of the TL signal and concomitant effects on the accuracy of TL age estimates for late glacial and modern glacial and nearshore marine sediments from fiords on Spitsbergen. The reduction in TL level decreases with filtering of wavelengths above 400 nm. Modern and Late Weichselian tills have TL levels at saturation, probably received no light exposure prior to deposition and thus cannot be dated by TL. Glacial-marine sediments deposited within 0.5 km of a glacier terminus yielded TL age estimates 10 times the known age presumably because these sediments received limited light exposure prior to deposition. Modern sublittoral sediments and fiord muds yielded TL apparent ages between
Randomized controlled trial of web-based decisional balance feedback and personalized normative feedback for college drinkers

Objective:Web-based personalized feedback interventions, particularly personalized normative feedback (PNF), are efficacious in improving college drinking outcomes; however, no personalized feedback interventions to date have provided college drinkers with feedback about their own decisional balance. This study tested the relative efficacy of a novel decisional balance feedback (DBF) intervention, PNF, and an assessment-only control condition.Method:Participants (N = 724; 56% female) were undergraduate students at a 4-year university in the U.S. Pacific Northwest and were randomized to receive one-time exposure to web-based DBF, PNF, or assessment only. Web-based assessment occurred at baseline and at 1-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups and included measures of motivation to change, drinking quantity norms, drinking frequency/quantity, and alcohol-related problems.Results:At the 1-month follow-up, DBF and PNF participants reported reductions in alcohol-related problems; however, only PNF participants reduced ...
Successful implant restoration with the use of barrier membranes.

The concept of osseointegration, first introduced in the late 1960s has irreversibly changed the treatment planning of the dental patient. Replacing missing teeth with a nonliving material is now a predictable outcome for the partially and fully edentulous patient. Branemark et al1 described the union of commercially pure titanium with vital bone and later offered histologic evidence of the bone-to-implant interface. Contemporary oral health providers now use surgical and prosthetic techniques to facilitate implant osseointegration in selected patients. However, even more challenging is the attempt to offer this treatment to every patient. The general anatomy of the region and the lack of acceptable tissue for implant placement often restrict this usage. This is especially evident with respect to the placement of an implant in the aesthetic zone of the maxilla. In an attempt to correct this problem, various techniques have been advocated to replace the missing tissue. Autogenous bone and soft tissue grafting have been the standard to improve the platform for implant placement and various types of hard tissue grafting, including onlay, inlay, and particulate grafts, have been suggested.*-* Additionally, the use of soft tissue grafts has been advocated to further enhance the implant recipient site. More recently, the concept of guided tissue regeneration (GTR), and more specifically guided bone regeneration (GBR), has been introduced to further enhance the prognosis of implant placement.5 However, several clinical issues remain unresolved: 1) Should ridge augmentation and implant placement be staged? 2) Do barrier membranes improve bone quality and quantity? 3) Should barriers be used with implant placement and, more importantly, do they adequately improve the prognosis of implant therapy? If barrier membranes are useful, what type of membrane offers the best