cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The nature of water within bacterial spores: protecting life in extreme environments

The bacterial spore is a formidable container of life, protecting the vital contents from chemical attack, antimicrobial agents, heat damage, UV light degradation, and water dehydration. The exact role of the spore components remains in dispute. Nevertheless, water molecules are important in each of these processes. The physical state of water within the bacterial spore has been investigated since the early 1930's. The water is found two states, free or bound, in two different areas, core and non-core. It is established that free water is accessible to diffuse and exchange with deuterated water and that the diffusible water can access all areas of the spore. The presence of bound water has come under recent scrutiny and has been suggested the water within the core is mobile, rather than bound, based on the analysis of deuterium relaxation rates. Using an alternate method, deuterium quadrupole-echo spectroscopy, we are able to distinguish between mobile and immobile water molecules. In the absence of rapid motion, the deuterium spectrum of D2O is dominated by a broad line, whose line shape is used as a characteristic descriptor of molecular motion. The deuterium spectrum of bacterial spores reveals three distinct features: the broad peak of immobilized water, a narrow line of water in rapid motion, and a signal of intermediate width. This third signal is assigned this peak from partially deuterated proteins with the spore in which N-H groups have undergone exchange with water deuterons to form N-D species. As a result of these observations, the nature of water within the spore requires additional explanation to understand how the spore and its water preserve life.
American Pediatric Society's 2014 John Howland Award acceptance lecture: saving lives through early diagnosis.

American Pediatric Society’s 2014 John Howland Award acceptance lecture: saving lives through early diagnosis
Cyanide content of cassava (Manihot esculenta, Euphorbiaceae) cultivars used by Tukanoan Indians in Northwest Amazonia

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a cyanide-containing food crop used by many indigenous peoples in Amazonia. Tukanoan Indians in Northwest Amazonia utilize both “bitter” and “sweet” cassava cultivars. Those classified as “bitter” are the dietary staple. Analysis of 13 commonly used “bitter” cultivars indicates that they are high in cyanide in comparison to values reportedin the literature. The Tukanoan practice of including the inner peel in the edible portion contributes to the high cyanide values found.
Advanced synthesis for advancing heterogeneous catalysis

There are tremendous needs and opportunities for the understanding and application of heterogeneous catalysis in the solution of vexing technological problems. Nanoscale, catalytically active phases, particularly metal nanoparticles and metal oxide clusters, supported on high surface area oxides (supported catalysts) are one of the most important classes of heterogeneous catalysts. The problem of inhomogeneity and the limits it places on the understanding of catalytic chemistry has led to substantial efforts to produce more uniform catalyst systems via more synthetic control. This article highlights an approach adopted at Argonne National Laboratory for the synthesis of uniform supported metal and oxide particles.
Initiation protein induced helix destabilization at the λ origin: A prepriming step in DNA replication

The interaction of the lambda phage initiator protein, O, with the lambda origin sequence, ori, has been investigated. Binding of O, or its amino-terminal fragment, causes a major structural change within a 60 bp AT-rich region just to the right of the O-binding site. ATP or other molecular energy sources are not required. The modification, as assayed by nuclease sensitivity, is reduced when certain ori mutant sequences, which bind O but fail to replicate, are substituted for the wild-type sequence. The modification of DNA structure caused by the interaction of O is absolutely dependent on the presence of superhelical tension at the lambda origin sequence, and has several properties consistent with a strand separation reaction. We propose that this modification is a fundamental prepriming event that is the first stage in initiation of bidirectional replication in lambda after O binding.
Inclusive Cultural Empathy: A Relationship-Centred Alternative to Individualism

Good relationships in psychotherapy emerge as a necessary but not sufficient condition in all research about effective mental health services. Good relationships depend on establishing empathy. Emp...
Antibody validation by quantitative analysis of protein expression using expression of Met in breast cancer as a model

Expression of Met, the Hepatocyte Growth Factor receptor, has been shown to have prognostic value in numerous types of cancer including breast, gastric, cervical and head and neck carcinomas. However, traditional analyses of expression have shown variable results and a lack of reproducibility. The AQUA® system is a method of quantitative in situ analysis of protein expression that allows the assessment of reproducibility of both antibodies and assay conditions. Here, we illustrate the necessity for antibody validation when assaying the prognostic value of a potential biomarker. Using five antibodies to the intracellular domain of the Met receptor and 10 cell line controls, we quantitatively assess reproducibility of protein expression. We show that many antibodies are not reproducible at a quantitative level from lot to lot or assay to assay, suggesting new criteria for antibody validation. We also build upon past literature addressing the prognostic value of Met in a cohort of 640 cases of invasive breast cancer on a tissue microarray. We show that high levels of expression of nuclear Met, as determined by antibodies to the intracellular domain and defined as nuclear by subcellular compartmental analysis, is associated with shorter disease-specific survival in breast cancer.
Long-Term International Capital Movements and TechnologyA Review

This paper reviews the theoretical literature on the question of how long-term international capital movements depend on the international distribution of technology. It focuses on long-term investment flows, as these are more affected by international differences in technologies than short-term financial flows. International capital movements are investigated in the context of various technology specifications, ranging from models with only one common technology to those with multiple and endogenous technologies. The paper demonstrates that the theoretical specification of technology is crucial to the prediction of the size and direction of international capital movements.
The effect of drying on early-age morphology of C–S–H as observed in environmental SEM

The morphology of early-age C–S–H, often referred to as outer product or low-density C–S–H, is generally accepted to be fibrillar and forms mainly during the early stages of hydration. This paper reports the effect of drying on the microstructure in young tricalcium silicate paste, which provides insight into the mechanism that leads to the fibrillar morphology. During the first few days after C3S is mixed with water, the morphology of C–S–H is more affected by drying rate than by relative humidity. This sensitivity is most apparent at partial pressures greater than 85%. During this time, the fibrillar C–S–H product can be suppressed by drying C3S paste samples very slowly prior to imaging. This approach is interpreted as evidence that this fibrillar morphology, which naturally form over time, grow as tiny colloidal particles that rearrange during the early stages of hydration, leading to well-established larger scale morphologies.
Amifostine preserves osteocyte number and osteoid formation in fracture healing following radiotherapy.

Purpose Radiation is known to decrease osteocyte count and function, leading to bone weakening. A treatment strategy to mitigate these consequences could have immense therapeutic ramifications. The authors previously reported significantly decreased osteocyte count and mineralization capacity in a rat model of fracture healing after radiotherapy. They hypothesized that amifostine (AMF) would preserve osteocyte number and function in this model. Materials and Methods Thirty-six rats were divided into 3 groups: fracture, radiated fracture, and radiated fracture with AMF. Radiated groups underwent human-equivalent radiotherapy to the mandible before fixator placement and mandibular osteotomy. The AMF group received a subcutaneous injection before each dose of radiotherapy. After 40 days, mandibles were harvested for histologic processing. Quantification of osteocyte count (Oc), empty lacunae (EL), and osteoid ratio (osteoid volume [OV] to tissue volume [TV]) was performed and the results were compared using analysis of variance ( P Results Radiated fractures showed significantly decreased Oc, increased EL, and a decreased capacity to produce new osteoid at the fracture site as measured with OV/TV compared with nonradiated fractures. In mandibles treated with AMF, these metrics were not statistically different than the control, indicating a preservation of osteocyte number and function. Conclusions These results support the hypothesis that AMF preserves osteocyte number and function, thereby preventing the pernicious effects of radiotherapy on the cellular environment of fracture healing. Based on these findings, the authors encourage future investigation of this promising therapy for use in the prevention of pathologic fractures and osteoradionecrosis.
The Role of Dyadic Organization in Regulation of Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Handling during Rest in Rabbit Ventricular Myocytes

The dyadic organization of ventricular myocytes ensures synchronized activation of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release during systole. However, it remains obscure how the dyadic organization affects SR Ca2+ handling during diastole. By measuring intraluminal SR Ca2+ ([Ca2+]SR) decline during rest in rabbit ventricular myocytes, we found that ∼76% of leaked SR Ca2+ is extruded from the cytosol and only ∼24% is pumped back into the SR. Thus, the majority of Ca2+ that leaks from the SR is removed from the cytosol before it can be sequestered back into the SR by the SR Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA). Detubulation decreased [Ca2+]SR decline during rest, thus making the leaked SR Ca2+ more accessible for SERCA. These results suggest that Ca2+ extrusion systems are localized in T-tubules. Inhibition of Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) slowed [Ca2+]SR decline during rest by threefold, however did not prevent it. Depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential during NCX inhibition completely prevented the rest-dependent [Ca2+]SR decline. Despite a significant SR Ca2+ leak, Ca2+ sparks were very rare events in control conditions. NCX inhibition or detubulation increased Ca2+ spark activity independent of SR Ca2+ load. Overall, these results indicate that during rest NCX effectively competes with SERCA for cytosolic Ca2+ that leaks from the SR. This can be explained if the majority of SR Ca2+ leak occurs through ryanodine receptors in the junctional SR that are located closely to NCX in the dyadic cleft. Such control of the dyadic [Ca2+] by NCX play a critical role in suppressing Ca2+ sparks during rest.
Small Intestinal Manometric Studies in Patients with Familial Visceral Myopathies

We studied jejunal manometry on 10 patients with type 1 familial visceral myopathy (FVM), and one patient each with types II and III. Two patients of type I and both patients of types II and III had intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome. The record was obtained in each patient for 4 to 5 hours during fasting, and 1 hour after feeding. In type I FVM, migrating motor complexes were present in six and absent in four patients. In these four patients (two with intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome) with absent migrating motor complexes, there was infrequent low-amplitude contractions during fasting, and after feeding. In six patients with migrating motor complexes, the motility indices of phases 2, 3, and fed period were 59%, 49%, and 24% of those of control subjects, respectively, and the frequency of contractions of phases 2, 3 and the fed period were 70%, 79%, and 32% of those of control subjects, respectively. In both patients with types II and III FVM, only infrequent low-amplitude contractions were recorded during fasting and after feeding. We concluded that intestinal contractions in patients with familial visceral myopathies were weak, and the weakness was more severe in patients with intestinal pseudo-obstruction syndrome.
Bipolar Industries: Ethnographic Evidence and Archaeological Implications:

Bipolar objects are common in archaeological assemblages. Produced by hammer-and-anvil knapping, these objects generally are classified in one of two conflicting ways: as cores or as wedges. Althou...
Neuropathology and reduced CREB/CBP signaling in presenilin conditional knockout mice: Prospects for therapy of Alzheimer's disease

Background Mutations in presenilins (PS1 and PS2) are the major cause of familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD). FAD-linked PS mutations are generally thought to lead to AD pathogenesis through their property to increase the levels of the toxic peptide beta-amyloid 42 (Abeta42). Although a large body of information exists on the biochemistry and cell biology of presenilins, the normal function of presenilins in the adult mammalian brain has been largely unknown.
Channeling: A contextual approach to internal and external communication

Channel is defined as "the vehicle or medium through which signals are sent. In practice, those vehicles are largely presented as text-based, messages planned in terms of contexts of audience and purpose, but ultimately organized as formats. It is argued that people are the primary channels, and that relationship-building, particularly in environments prompting linkages and/or experiencing stress, is a critical component of communicative competence.
An improved perturbation theory for shock waves propagating through non-uniform regions

This paper considers the problem of the propagation of a shock wave down a non-uniform tube. Linearized solutions to the problem (Chester 1954) do not hold when the velocity behind the shock is near or at the sonic speed. By retaining appropriate non-linear terms of the flow equations, a solution is obtained which holds for all conditions behind the shock, and reduces to the linearized solution for conditions away from sonic.The behaviour of supersonic or subsonic flow entering regions of expanding or contracting area changes is discussed. It is found that subsidiary shocks may be formed; these can be located and described using the present solution. Explicit solutions are given for the cases of supersonic or subsonic flow entering a region of linearly expanding or contracting area. The point of shock formation as well as the path of the subsidiary shock is obtained for the case in which the area contracts.
The future of SSIT and the state of the engineering profession

The temptation to predict the future is probably best avoided by all but poets and novelists. Within the precise and evidence-based world of engineering, this injunction should no doubt be doubly respected. Nevertheless, having agreed to the task of making predictions and therefore already committing the aforementioned offenses against sound practice, the author widens the offense by making the broader claim that prognostications about the future of SSIT intrinsically and necessarily relate to the state of engineering as a profession. This attitude is, of course, the antithesis of the active approach. But its mechanical and compact features present undeniable attractions to those facing the rigorous demands of engineering education and practice
Glutamate induces rapid upregulation of astrocyte glutamate transport and cell-surface expression of GLAST.

Glutamate transporters clear glutamate from the extracellular space by high-affinity binding and uptake. Factors that regulate glutamate transporter expression and activity can thereby influence excitatory neurotransmission. Transporter function in GABAergic and other systems has been shown to be regulated by transporter substrates. Here, glutamate regulation of glutamate transport was studied using primary murine astrocyte cultures that express the GLAST (EAAT1) and GLT-1 (EAAT2) transporter subtypes. Glutamate was found to stimulate glutamate transport capacity ( V max) in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The maximal increase was 100%, with an ED50 of 40 μm glutamate and with onset beginning ∼15 min after onset of glutamate exposure. The uptake stimulation was reproduced byd-aspartate, which is also a transporter substrate, but not by nontransported glutamate receptor agonists. Moreover, glutamate incubation did not stimulate transport when performed in a sodium-free medium, suggesting that the stimulatory effect of glutamate is triggered by increased transporter activity rather than receptor activation. Treatment with the actin-disrupting agents cytochalasin B or cytochalasin D prevented the glutamate-induced increase in glutamate uptake. Biotinylation labeling of membrane surface proteins showed that glutamate incubation produced an increase in GLAST expression at the astrocyte cell surface. These results suggest that cell-surface expression of GLAST can be rapidly regulated by glutamate through a process triggered by GLAST activity and involving the actin cytoskeleton. This feedback loop provides a mechanism by which changes in extracellular glutamate concentrations could rapidly modulate astrocyte glutamate transport capacity.
Psychosocial Correlates of Male Sexual Aggression in a Chronic Delinquent Sample

Theory and previous studies have suggested that sexual aggression in juveniles is associated with past sexual victimization, deficits in social competence, and high levels of neurotic symptoms. Thi...
Activities of muscadine grape skin and polyphenolic constituents against Helicobacter pylori.

Aims To identify active phenolic constituents in muscadine grape skin (MGS) extracts and determine interactions among compounds while further exploring their anti-Helicobacter pylori potential in vitro. Methods and Results The inhibitory effects of quercetin and resveratrol, active polyphenols identified in MGS extracts, against H. pylori were investigated. Quercetin and resveratrol significantly (P < 0·05) reduced H. pylori counts regardless of pH with minimal bactericidal concentrations of 256 and 128 μg ml−1, respectively. MGS extracts displayed the highest efficacy, suggesting additional unidentified compounds not determined in this study. Time-course viability experiments showed a dose-dependent anti-H. pylori response to quercetin and resveratrol. Interestingly, neither quercetin nor resveratrol affected H. pylori outer membrane (OM) integrity as determined by 1-N-phenylnaphthylamine (NPN) uptake assays. However, treatment with MGS extract did increase NPN uptake, indicating OM destabilization possibly by additional unknown components. Furthermore, quercetin was found to enter H. pylori as measured by HPLC supporting intracellular drug accumulation. Conclusions Quercetin and resveratrol possess strong anti-H. pylori activity in vitro and are independent of pH. Our results also suggest that these compounds do not affect H. pylori OM integrity as previously hypothesized and that the primary antimicrobial activity of quercetin may be linked to interactions with intracellular components. Significance and Impact of the Study The anti-H. pylori effects of quercetin and resveratrol suggest that these compounds may be useful in the dietary prevention and/or treatment of H. pylori infection.
In Vitro Inhibition of Mammalian Glutathione Transferases by Selected Nitrobenzenes

Five structurally related nitrobenzenes (1,2-dinitrobenzene, 1,3-dinitrobenzene, 1,4-dinitrobenzene, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene, and picric acid) and Meisenheimer complex [1-(S-glutathionyl)-2,4,6-trinitrocyclohexadienate] were evaluated as possible inhibitors of affinity purified mammalian glutathione transferases (GSTs) isolated from human liver or human term placenta and rat fiver. The results suggest that the degree of GST inhibition depends upon both the chemical in question and the enzyme source. Among the nitrobenzenes tested, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) was found to be the most potent inhibitor of GST activity toward 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) from all the sources, whereas 1,3-dinitrobenzene (1,3-DNB) was the least effective. TNB-caused inhibition of GST activity toward CDNB appeared to be isozyme specific in that compared to the enzyme from human term placenta (GSTP1–1), the degree of inhibition of the mixture of GST isozymes present in the fivers of adult rats and humans was low. The enzyme a...
Extraction of metals from aqueous systems employing capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fibers modified with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET, polyester) capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fibers were employed as the base structure for surface modification to provide a sorbent for solid phase extraction (SPE) of aqueous cations. Surface functionalization with polyacrylic acid (PAA) was achieved using a “grafting to” approach, yielding a stable sorbent that has the potential of being employed over a large range of pH values and a variety of sample matrices. PAA was chosen for surface modification because the repeating acrylic acid monomeric unit, which contains a carboxylic acid, has the ability to bind metal ions. In a micropipette-tip SPE format, these PAA-functionalized C-CP fibers showed the ability to efficiently bind several metals (Cu2+, Cu+, Ni2+, Fe3+, UO22+), while elution could be achieved with extremely low concentrations of hydrochloric acid (1 ml of 0.005%), resulting in overall recoveries of greater than 88%. A single tip was carried throughout the entire study as a control, and showed overall recoveries averaging 96% over the course of 19 extraction experiments and a 12-month period, demonstrating the chemical stability of the sorbent material, and suggesting the potential of the C-CP fiber SPE tips to be used multiple times.
The social psychology of public response to warnings of a nuclear power plant accident

This article reviews the process of public response to warnings of an impending nuclear power plant emergency. Significant evidence exists to suggest that people engage in protective action in response to warnings based upon the substance and course through which emergency warning information is disseminated. The three basic components of a warning system are defined, and the elements of public response to warnings are summarized. Popular myths about public response to warnings are outlined and dispelled based upon current research verification. The conclusion provides an overview and synthesis of the warning response process.
Event-related potentials elicited during a context-free homograph task in normal versus schizophrenic subjects

Thought disorder in schizophrenia may involve abnormal semantic activation or faulty working memory maintenance. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded while sentences reading “THE NOUN WAS ADJECTIVE/VERB” were presented to 34 schizophrenic and 34 control subjects. Some nouns were homographs with dominant and subordinate meanings. Their sentence ending presented information crucial for interpretation (e.g., The bank was [closed, steep]). Greatest N400 activity to subordinate homograph-meaning sentence endings in schizophrenia would reflect a semantic bias to strong associates. N400 to all endings would reflect faulty verbal working memory maintenance. Schizophrenic subjects showed N400 activity to all endings, suggesting problems in contextual maintenance independent of content, but slightly greater N400 activity to subordinate endings that correlated with the severity of psychosis. Future research should help determine whether a semantic activation bias in schizophrenia toward strong associates is reflected in ERP activity or whether this effect is overshadowed by faulty verbal working memory maintenance of context.
FDTD and single scattering formulation for simulation of foliage camouflaged hard targets

In this paper an electromagnetic scattering model is presented that allows simulation of radar response from hard targets embedded within a foliage canopy. The modeling approach is based on a hybrid foliage propagation and scattering method and a full-wave simulation for a finitesize target. The hybrid model allows for inclusion of effects of foliage attenuation and scattering in addition to near-filed foliage-target and targetfoliage interactions. The purpose of developing this model is to investigate the effect of foliage on target signature and determine methodologies that would enhance target detection.
Can’t Control Yourself? Monitor Those Bad Habits

What strategies can people use to control unwanted habits? Past work has focused on controlling other kinds of automatic impulses, especially temptations. The nature of habit cuing calls for certain self-control strategies. Because the slow-to-change memory trace of habits is not amenable to change or reinterpretation, successful habit control involves inhibiting the unwanted response when activated in memory. In support, two episode-sampling diary studies demonstrated that bad habits, unlike responses to temptations, were controlled most effectively through spontaneous use of vigilant monitoring (thinking "don't do it," watching carefully for slipups). No other strategy was useful in controlling strong habits, despite that stimulus control was effective at inhibiting responses to temptations. A subsequent experiment showed that vigilant monitoring aids habit control, not by changing the strength of the habit memory trace but by heightening inhibitory, cognitive control processes. The implications of these findings for behavior change interventions are discussed.
Tutorial on Hardware and Software Reliability, Maintainability and Availability

Computersystems, whether hardware or software, are subject to failure. Precisely, what is afailure? It is defined as: The inability of a system or system component to perform a required function within specified limits. Afailure may be produced when a fault is encountered and a loss of the expected service to the user results [IEEE/AIAA P1633]. This brings us to the question of what is a fault? A fault is defect in the hardware or computer code that can be the cause of one or more failures. Software- based systems have become the dominant player in the computer systems world. Since it is imperative that computer systems operate reliably, considering the criticality of software, particularly in safety critical systems, the IEEE and AIAA commissioned the development of the Recommended Practice on Software Reliability. This tutorial serves as a companion document with the purpose of elaborating on key software reliability process practices in more detail than can be specified in the Recommended Practice. However, since other subjects like maintainability and availability are also covered, the tutorial can be used as a stand-alone document. While the focus of the Recommended Practice is software reliability, software and hardware do not operate in a vacuum. Therefore, both software and hardware are addressed in this tutorial in an integrated fashion. The narrative of the tutorial is augmented with illustrative solved problems. The recommended practice [IEEE P1633] is a composite of models and tools and describes the "what and how" of software reliability engineering. It is important for an organization to have a disciplined process if it is to produce high reliability software. This process uses a life cycle approach to software reliability that takes into account the risk to reliability due to requirements changes. A requirements change may induce ambiguity and uncertainty in the development process that cause errors in implementing the changes. Subsequently, these errors may propagate through later phases of development and maintenance. In view of the life cycle ramifications of the software reliability process, maintenance is included in this tutorial. Furthermore, because reliability and maintainability determine availability, the latter is also included.
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for acute proximal humerus fractures: a systematic review.

Background: Proximal humerus fractures are one of the most common fractures among elderly patients. We performed a systematic review to detail the demographics, outcomes, and complications of patients who undergo reverse shoulder arthroplasty for complex proximal humerus fractures. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed. Two reviewers assessed and confirmed the methodical quality of each study. Studies that met our criteria were assessed for pertinent data, and when available, similar outcomes were combined to generate frequency-weighted means. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for this review. The frequency weighted mean age was 77.5 years and the mean follow up was 43.2 months. Females comprised 90.4% of the patient population. Four-part fractures were most commonly encountered. The frequency weighted mean constant’s score was 55.9. Frequency weighted mean active forward flexion, abduction, and external rotation at neutral were 122 � ,9 7 � ,a nd 18 � , respectively. Tuberosity repair was associated with significantly higher external rotation compared to no repair (24 � vs 15 � ; P ¼.0003). The most common complication was scapular notching (32%) while the impact of this finding remains unknown. Conclusion: Pooled data and frequency weighted mean outcomes showed that RSA patients tend to be elderly women and still have postoperative dysfunction despite well-controlled pain. Repair of the greater tuberosity allows greater range of motion in patients. Level of evidence: Level IV, Systematic Review. 2014 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees.
Centralised advice for distribution of high technology

(1980). Centralised advice for distribution of high technology. Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology: Vol. 4, No. 5, pp. 217-218.
Laser beam divergence utilizing a lateral shearing interferometer

An analysis of the lateral shearing interferometer is given for laser beams. The results enable a simple determination of the local radius of curvature of the wavefront. In addition, the presence of phase distortion in the beam may be ascertained.
Aminoaciduria Resulting from Cycloleucine Administration in Man

Cycloleucine (1-aminocyclopentanecarboxylic acid) administration in cancer patients resulted in a reversible marked aminoaciduria consisting predominantly of cystine, ornithine, lysine, and arginine, with only minor elevations of other amino acids. Plasma levels of amino acids were essentially unchanged except for slight decreases in ornithine and lysine. This aminoaciduria is most likely due to a blockage by the drug of the renal tubular reabsorption of cystine, ornithine, lysine, and arginine, resulting in an aminoaciduria of the type seen in cystinuria.
Failure of cortisone in chronic ulcerative disease of the large and small bowel.

The basis for the clinical effects of cortisone in different and apparently unrelated disease entities is still, at this moment, a subject for speculation. However, that therapeutic clinical effects result from the administration of this substance as well as from ACTH, is now a matter of clinical record. The need for further observations in many disease states is obvious and this is being achieved in many centers throughout the nation.l To date there have been very few published reports of the effects of these substances in chronic ulcerative disease of the intestinal tract. Dearing and Brown2 were the first to report a small series (5 cases) of chronic ulcerative colitis who had been treated with these drugs. Of the four who had received cortisone two noted subjective improvement, one having an arthritic complication, and two were unchanged. The one case treated with ACTH showed no clinical response. Gray and co-workers3 used ACTH in one case after no clinical improvement had been effected by routine measures. It was not until 21 days of treatment had elapsed that overall improvement, both systemic and local, was achieved. DuToit and Bauer4 obtained striking results with ACTH in two patients with ulcerative colitis after several weeks of administration. In a brief note, Kirsner5 reports beneficial effects in 12 patients with ulcerative colitis treated with ACTH but recurrence in seven after cessation of treatment. There was one death from colon perforation and peritonitis. In four other cases who had received cortisone, beneficial effects were noted in two. At the Brooklyn Veterans Administration Hospital, seven cases of proven ulcerative disease of the large and small bowel were given cortisone. Control studies in terms of proctoscopic appearance and X-rays, preand posttreatment, as well as various studies of the blood electrolytes (Na and K), glucose tolerance curves, and Thorn eosinophile response tests, were done in each case.
Humanized Mice as a Platform for the Development of Long-Acting Nanoformulated Antiretroviral Therapy

Cell-carried nanoformulations of antiretroviral therapy (nanoART) were pioneered at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The platform utilizes monocyte-macrophages as Trojan Horses for drug delivery to human immunodeficiency viral reservoirs. This includes virus target cells, tissues, and subcellular organelles where the virus completes its life cycle. Particles manufactured with polymer excipients are coated with sugars or peptides, facilitating particle cell uptake and sequestration. The intent, overall, is to use cells as drug depots and endosomes as storage centers for particle-associated and free bioactive medicines. The latter contains drugs that are dissociated from particles over periods of days to weeks. Parenteral administration of nanoART produced drug concentrations in the reticuloendothelial system above the effective dose 50 with limited systemic toxicities. Antiretroviral responses were realized through studies of human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1) infected humanized mice. The results showed that weekly parenteral administration of nanoART could reduce plasma virus to at or below five viral copies/ml. Targeting of the nanoART to monocyte-macrophages enabled “best” pharmacokinetic (PK) outcomes. These studies could lead to improved drug compliance, diminished viral resistance, and facilitation of virus reservoir reductions.
Insertion Mechanism of N2 and O2 into Tn(n = 8, 10, 12)-Silsesquioxane Framework

The process of insertion of molecular oxygen and nitrogen into polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) has been investigated theoretically. Using ab initio methods, the N2 interaction with the POSS has been described with restricted Hartree−Fock (RHF) with a triple-ζ basis set, while systems involving O2 require restricted open shell (ROHF) wave functions, to account for their open-shell ground states. This insertion process is described in terms of the energetic change that the system X2::POSS undergoes when the gas molecule passes from the exterior to the interior of the cage through the largest of its faces. The formation of the cluster occurs through a transition structure that has been characterized for each system. The barrier is a function of the dimension of the face of the POSS and, hence, of the cage dimensions. The results of the calculation are consistent with experimental observations that the O2 molecules pass through a given membrane more easily than N2.
Aniridia: a comparative overview.

Background and purpose Aniridia is linked to a mutation of the PAX6 gene, which results in panocular anomalies. A set of common secondary pathologies associated with aniridia is recognized. Much of the literature on aniridia focuses on genetic factors of the disorder and associated abnormalities, both ocular and nonocular. The field of research on the prevalence of pathology secondary to ocular abnormalities associated with aniridia is limited, with many of the studies based on low patient numbers. This study contributes patient data on the prevalence and significance of ocular pathology in aniridia. Patients and method We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with aniridia treated at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute between July 1, 2011, and July 1, 2012. We compiled data on visual acuities and ocular pathologies, comparing our results with previous studies. Results The percentage of patients in our study with nystagmus and cataract was within the range reported among several studies. However, the rate of glaucoma and corneal disease among our adult study patients was higher. Despite being a prominent feature of aniridia, retinal pathology is difficult to quantify; data on retinal pathology is scarce in the literature and difficult to obtain through a retrospective chart review due to the multiple factors impacting the retina in aniridia. Conclusion In addition to the challenges posed by ocular anomalies that occur in anirida, the progressive nature of processes common in the condition have significant implications for long-term visual outcomes.
Gas-Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy of Electronic Devices

Gas-source molecular beam epitaxy (GSMBE) has been developed into a useful tool for the growth of both optical and electronic device structures. In this paper, we report on the use of tertiarybutylarsine (TBA) and tertiarybutylphosphine (TBP) in GSMBE for the growth of electronic device structures with state-of-the-art performance. Device structures based on both the In0.48Ga0.52P/GaAs and In0.53Ga0.47 As/InP lattice matched materials systems are described. The GSMBE system is based on the use of elemental Group-III sources and employs thermal crackers for precracking TBA and TBP. Dopant sources include both elemental (Sn and Be) and vapor (CBr4 and SiBr4) sources. Device structures fabricated in the In0.48Ga0.52P/GaAs materials system include single- and double- heterojunction bipolar transistors (SHBTs and DHBTs). Device structures fabricated in the In0.53Ga0.47As/InP materials system include SHBTs, DHBTs, heterojunction field effect transistors (HFETs), and both planar and lateral resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs.) Vertically integrated HFET and multi-RTD heterostructures for high speed logic/memory are also described.
Effect of l-Epinephrine and l-Arterenol on Egg White Edema in the Rat.

Summaryl-epinephrine in a subcutaneous dose, 100 μg per kg, inhibits eggwhite edema in the rat. l-arterenol is about 1/25 as effective. Isuprel is inactive.
Thermal degradation of β-carotene studied by ion mobility atmospheric solid analysis probe mass spectrometry: full product pattern and selective ionization enhancement.

Atmospheric solid analysis probe mass spectrometry has the capability of capturing full product patterns simultaneously including both volatile and semi-volatile compounds produced at elevated temperatures. Real-time low-energy collision-induced fragmentation combined with ion mobility separations enables rapid identification of the chemical structures of products. We present here for the first time the recognition of full product patterns resulting from the thermal degradation of β-carotene at temperatures up to 600 °C. Solvent vapor-induced ionization enhancement is observed, which reveals parallel thermal dissociation processes that lead to even- and odd-numbered mass products. The drift-time distributions of high mass products, along with β-carotene, were monitored with temperature, showing multiple conformations that are associated with the presence of two β-rings. Products of masses 346/347, however, show a single conformation distribution, which indicates the separation of two β-rings resulting from the direct bond scission at the polyene hydrocarbon chain. The thermal degradation pathways are evaluated and discussed.
EFFECTS OF TRAINING METHOD ON INSPECTORS' ACCURACY IN A SIMULATED QUALITY CONTROL TASK

Visual inspection remains an important component in most quality inspection operations even though human inspection performance is generally quite poor (Drury & Sinclair, 1983; Wiener, 1987). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three different training strategies on accuracy of inspection during three posttraining sessions using a simulated inspection task. Thirty-eight undergraduate subjects were used in a 3 x 3 split-plot design in which the between-subject factor was training method and the repeated measure was sessions. Subjects were randomly assigned to methods of training to detect errors in geometric figures. Each training method used the same written description of correct and incorrect figures and examples of correct figures, but they ddfered in terms of the visual presentation of figures. Subjects in the Correct Samples Only (CSO) condition were trained using no incorrect figures; those in the Critical Ddferences (CD) and Multiple Differences (MD) conditions were trained using incorrect figures containing one and two errors at a time, respectively. Performance was evaluated using a paper-and-pencil task; subjects inspected 20 pages, each containing 80 figures, during each session. Three dependent variables were analyzed: (1) false positives (the number of correct figures marked as incorrect), (2) the number of times a oneerror figure was not identified, and (3) the number of times a two-error figure was not identified. The m e l a n number of errors summed across all three sessions under each training method are summarized in Table 1. Some differences between methods appear to be of practical importance. Over-all main effects tests on the training factor (both nonparametric
Detection of late radiation damage on left atrial fibrosis using cardiac late gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance imaging

Purpose This is a proof-of-principle study investigating the feasibility of using late gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (LGE-MRI) to detect left atrium (LA) radiation damage. Methods and materials LGE-MRI data were acquired for 7 patients with previous external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) histories. The enhancement in LA scar was delineated and fused to the computed tomography images used in dose calculation for radiation therapy. Dosimetric and normal tissue complication probability analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between LA scar enhancement and radiation doses. Results The average LA scar volume for the subjects was 2.5 cm3 (range, 1.2-4.1 cm3; median, 2.6 cm3). The overall average of the mean dose to the LA scar was 25.9 Gy (range, 5.8-49.2 Gy). Linear relationships were found between the amount of radiation dose (mean dose) (R2 = 0.8514, P = .03) to the LA scar-enhanced volume. The ratio of the cardiac tissue change (LA scar/LA wall) also demonstrated a linear relationship with the level of radiation received by the cardiac tissue (R2 = 0.9787, P < .01). Last, the normal tissue complication probability analysis suggested a dose response function to the LA scar enhancement. Conclusions With LGE-MRI and 3-dimensional dose mapping on the treatment planning system, it is possible to define subclinical cardiac damage and distinguish intrinsic cardiac tissue change from radiation induced cardiac tissue damage. Imaging myocardial injury secondary to EBRT using MRI may be a useful modality to follow cardiac toxicity from EBRT and help identify individuals who are more susceptible to EBRT damage. LGE-MRI may provide essential information to identify early screening strategy for affected cancer survivors after EBRT treatment.
Exploration and Practice of Training Cross-speciality Geology Postgraduates

Based on the analysis of advantages and disadvantages of cross-speciality geology postgraduates on the construction of master program, this paper summarizes the thinking, exploration and practice of improving the training quality of this kind of postgraduates, that is to take effective measures to enhance the quality of student source, to strengthen the geological foundation of cross-speciality students and train their geological thinking, to establish regulations of cross-speciality postgraduate tutors to define the requirements to the tutors, to make suitable training plans for different students according to their personal circumstances and choose the research directions carefully, to establish notice of cross-speciality postgraduate and enhance their self-discipline capacity and to carry out the mid-term inspection and graduation reply strictly. The implementation of some of the measures mentioned above has already obtained some achievement, and others remain to be tested by time and practice.
Effect of Passivation Time on Corrosion Resistance of Tin-Coated Steel Sheet in Various Corrosive Mediums

The corrosion resistance of tin-coated steel sheet in various corrosive fluids was investigated using metallography,weight-loss test and electrochemistry.It was found that the passivation time had remarkable effects on the corrosion resistance of the tin-coated steel sheet.Namely,the corrosion resistance of the tin-coated steel in acidic corrosive solutions increased with the increasing passivation time.However,its corrosion resistance in neutral corrosive solutions increased with the increasing passivation time in the early stage,due to the formation of tin oxide film,and it decreased therewith after a certain period of passivation,owing to the dissolution of tin oxide film.
Histamine augments colonic secretion in guinea pig distal colon

We tested the hypothesis that the role of histamine in the control of intestinal secretion is mediated by prostaglandins (PGs). The effects of histamine on ion transport were examined in muscle-stripped sheets of mucosa/submucosa set up in flux chambers. Histamine evoked a transient concentration-dependent increase in short-circuit current (Isc) that was reduced by the Cl- transport inhibitor bumetanide. Histamine also caused the release of PGE2. The Isc response to histamine was reduced by indomethacin and piroxicam, which block PG formation, but not by nordihydroguaiaretic acid, which prevents production of lipoxygenase products. 2-Methylhistamine, but not dimaprit, evoked a concentration-dependent increase in Isc. The Isc response to histamine was reduced by the H1-blocker pyrilamine, but not by the H2-antagonist cimetidine. In addition to its direct effect, histamine augmented the responses of endogenously released neurotransmitters with and without indomethacin and hexamethonium. Tetrodotoxin (TTX) reduced the Isc response to 10(-3) M histamine. In the presence of TTX, exogenous histamine amplified the responses to PGs, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, 2-chloroadenosine, bethanechol, and carbachol. These results suggest that histamine acts at H1-receptors on cells within the gut to mediate intestinal Cl- secretion in part by releasing PGs and by augmenting the actions of endogenously released neurotransmitters. Our results indicate that histamine has a role in the regulation of colonic transport function.
A versatile retractor for use in harvesting the internal mammary artery and performing standard cardiac operations.

A versatile retractor is described that can be used to harvest either mammary artery without disturbing the operative field and can be converted to a standard sternotomy retractor. It uses the principle of elevating the cut sternal edge and applying external pressure to the area of the costochrondal junction to rotate the mammary pedicle into view. We have used this retractor and found it to be very efficient in exposing the mammary pedicle while being atraumaric to the sternum.