cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anisotropy Induced by Macroscopic Boundaries: Surface-Normal Mapping using Diffusion-Weighted Imaging

In MRI, macroscopic boundaries lead to a diffusion-related increase in signal intensity near them—an effect commonly referred to as edge-enhancement. In diffusion-weighted imaging protocols where the signal attenuation due to diffusion results predominantly from the application of magnetic field gradients, edge-enhancement will depend on the orientation of these diffusion gradients. The resulting diffusion anisotropy can be exploited to map the direction normal to the macroscopic boundary. Simulations suggest that the hypothesized anisotropy may be within observable limits even when the voxel contains no boundary itself—hence, the name remote-anisotropy. Moreover, for certain experimental parameters there may be significant phase cancellations within the voxel that may lead to an edge detraction effect. When this is avoided, the eigenvector corresponding to the smallest eigenvalue of the diffusion tensor obtained from diffusion-tensor imaging can be used to create surface-normal maps conveniently. Experiments performed on simple geometric constructs as well as real tissue demonstrate the feasibility of using the edge-enhancement mechanism to map orientations orthogonal to macroscopic surfaces, which may be used to assess the integrity of tissue and organ boundaries noninvasively.
Fine structure of late stages of spermiogenesis in Leptocoris trivittatus say (Hemiptera : Corizidae)

Abstract Although the process of spermiogenesis has been described in many hemipteran species, no such studies at the ultrastructural level have been conducted upon species of the family Corizidae. Thus, the present investigation was initiated to study, by transmission and scanning electron microscopy, spermiogenesis in the boxelder bug, Leptocoris trivittatus (Hemiptera: Corizidae). Although early events, including acrosomal and nebenkern formation, are described, emphasis has been placed upon later events of spermiogenesis, such as acrosomal and mitochondrial transformations, and upon the morphology of the mature spermatozoon. The mature spermatozoon is a filiform structure which is composed of a head, flagellum, and endpiece. The head is comprised of an apical acrosome which extends lateral to a rod-shaped, condensed nucleus. The flagellum contains an axoneme, exhibiting a 9 + 9 + 2 pattern, and paired mitochondrial derivatives. Definitive mitochondrial derivatives are characterized by periodically arranged (45-nm period) cristae and a paracrystalline material within the matrix. Although the mitochondrial derivatives flank the axoneme for most of the spermatozoan length, they are not present in the endpiece of the spermatozoon.
Molecular and epidemiologic analysis of enterovirus B neurological infection in Argentine children.

Abstract Background Human enteroviruses are one of the major causes of central nervous system (CNS) infections in pediatrics. Study design We have studied 1242 children under 15 years old with suspicion of CNS infection from January 1998 to December 2003. CSF was obtained and molecular typing of human enterovirus B serotypes was performed by RT-PCR and sequencing of the N-terminal part of VP1 gene. Results According to the clinical syndromes, patients were grouped as aseptic meningitis ( n = 654, 52.6%), encephalitis ( n = 239, 19.2%), febrile seizures ( n = 153, 12.3%), febrile infant ( n = 84, 6.7%), neonatal disease ( n = 70, 5.6%),), acute flaccid paralysis ( n = 31, 2.4%) and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis ( n = 11, 0.9%). HEV was detected in 335/1242 CSF samples (26.97%) and was associated to aseptic meningitis ( n = 243, 72.5%); febrile infant ( n = 31, 9.2%); neonatal infection ( n = 26, 7.7%); encephalitis ( n = 25, 7.5%), febrile seizures ( n = 9, 2.68%); acute flaccid paralysis ( n = 1, 0.3%). Seasonal incidence of HEV-B species was analyzed showing that in Buenos Aires infections occur mainly during late spring and summer. Molecular serotyping was completed in 60/335 samples. Echovirus 30, Echovirus 9, Coxsackie B3 to B5 and Echovirus 33 were the most frequently identified. Conclusions We showed that HEV are responsible for a considerable proportion of hospitalizations in children with central nervous system compromise reaching 27% of overall etiology.
Camera calibration for roundabout traffic scenes

In this paper, we present an approach to estimate camera intrinsic and extrinsic parameters for roundabout traffic scenes in intelligent transportation applications. Unlike many previous works on camera calibration for roadway scenes based on the parallel line method, our work addresses camera calibration at roundabout scenes by using a circle. The proposed method can estimate tilt angle, focal length, and camera height by matching the ellipse equation extracted from an image with the perspective-transformed equation of the corresponding circle. Also, only one image is needed for camera calibration. The method is validated with real world roundabout traffic scenes and the results are comparable to those from the parallel line method in terms of accuracy.
EARLY VERSUS LATE SURFACTANT TREATMENT: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL† 1506

Background: Controversy still exits with respect to timing of surfactant administration in preterm infants at risk for or with manifest RDS. We therefore aimed to investigate in a multicenter trial whether early ( 2h following birth) surfactant administration would be superior. Subjects and methods: All infants with a gestational age from 27-32 weeks were enrolled stratified by center after prenatal parental informed consent. Early treatment with surfactant (100 mg/kg b.w. Alveofact® i.t.) was given to infants requiring intubation following birth, late treatment was given with an identical dosage to infants on mechanical ventilation with a FiO2 >0.4 between hours 2-6 following birth. The primary end point was the time on mechanical ventilation, secondary endpoints included mortality, BPD (28 days FiO2 >0.21 or mechanical ventilation), IVH >III/PVL. Sample size calculation revealed a total of 200 infants would have to be included to (α=0.05; β=0.80).Results: 236 infants were enrolled, 146 needed intubation and mechanical ventilation. Table 1 gives an overview on most relevant study data (intent-to-treat analysis).
The American Internet Voter

Since the creation of the Internet, there has been a seemingly never-ending number of books and analyses about the role of the Internet in politics. Many of these books fail to keep in mind that the behavior of elites—the well-educated and politically active individuals who often represent the peer group of these authors—is not generally representative of the behavior of the public at large. Pundits and scholars alike have remarked that 2008 appeared to be a revolutionary year in the use of the Internet in political campaigns, but few have systematically examined the role of the Internet in participatory politics for the average voter. Instead of relying on case studies, this article uses nationally representative survey data from 2004 through 2008 to determine how the general public uses—or does not use—the Internet in their political lives. The authors then consider whether the patterns of use for this technology appear different in the November 2008 general election cycle. They consider this issue in t...
A rapid, sensitivity assay for adenosine deaminase

A sensitive assay for adenosine deaminase is described that is based upon the separation of [ 3 H]adenosine and [ 3 H]inosine in 0.1 m formic acid on small columns containing the cation-exchange medium, SP-Sephadex. The assay is employed in a study of the inhibition of mouse thymus adenosine deaminase by 2-chloroadenosine.
Laparoscopic vs open resection for the treatment of diverticular disease

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether laparoscopic colon resection (LCR) offers any advantages over open colon resection (OCR) in the treatment of diverticular disease. Methods: Between 1992 and 2002, 95 patients underwent LCR and 80 patients underwent OCR for the treatment of diverticular disease. Demographics, details of operative procedure, outcome, and pathology were compared. Results: Patients in both groups were matched for age, sex, body mass index, history of previous abdominal operations, comorbidities, location of the disease, and presence of complications. LCR resulted in significantly less estimated blood loss and postoperative complications, shorter time to first bowel movement, and shorter length of stay than the OCR. There was no difference in operative time, intraoperative complications, mortality rates between groups. Conclusions: LCR is a safe and effective approach for the treatment of patients with diverticular disease. It results in less estimated blood loss, shorter time to first bowel movement, less postoperative complications, and shorter length of hospital stay.
Endothelial leptin receptor mutation provides partial resistance to diet-induced obesity

Leptin, a polypeptide hormone produced mainly by adipocytes, has diverse effects in both the brain and peripheral organs, including suppression of feeding. Other than mediating leptin transport across the blood-brain barrier, the role of the endothelial leptin receptor remains unclear. We recently generated a mutant mouse strain lacking endothelial leptin receptor signaling, and showed that there is an increased uptake of leptin by brain parenchyma after its delivery by in situ brain perfusion. Here, we tested the hypothesis that endothelial leptin receptor mutation confers partial resistance to diet-induced obesity. These ELKO mice had similar body weight and percent fat as their wild-type littermates when fed with rodent chow, but blood concentrations of leptin were significantly elevated. In response to a high-fat diet, wild-type mice had a greater gain of body weight and fat than ELKO mice. As shown by metabolic chamber measurement, the ELKO mice had higher oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and heat dissipation, although food intake was similar to that of the wild-type mice and locomotor activity was even reduced. This indicates that the partial resistance to diet-induced obesity was mediated by higher metabolic activity in the ELKO mice. Since neuronal leptin receptor knockout mice show obesity and diabetes, the results suggest that endothelial leptin signaling shows opposite effects from that of neuronal leptin signaling, with a facilitatory role in diet-induced obesity.
Amino acid volume and hydropathy of a transmembrane site determine glycine and anesthetic sensitivity of glycine receptors.

Two specific amino acid residues in transmembrane segments (TM) 2 and 3 are critical for the enhancement of glycine receptor (GlyR) function by volatile anesthetics. To determine which physicochemical characteristics of these sites determine their roles in anesthetic actions, an extensive series of single amino acid mutations at amino acid residue 288 (Ala-288) in TM3 of the α1 GlyR subunit was tested for modulation by volatile anesthetics. The mutations changed the apparent affinities of receptors for glycine; replacements with larger volumes and less hydropathy exhibited higher affinities for glycine. Potentiation by anesthetics was reduced by specific mutations at Ala-288. The molecular volume of the substituents was negatively correlated with the extent of potentiation by isoflurane, enflurane, and 1-chloro-1,2,2-trifluorocyclobutane, whereas there was no correlation between anesthetic enhancement and polarity, hydropathy, or hydrophilicity of substituents. In contrast to anesthetics, no correlation was found between the effects of the nonanesthetics 1,2-dichlorohexafluorocyclobutane or 2,3-dichlorooctafluorobutane and any physicochemical property of the substituent. These results suggest that the molecular volume and hydropathy of the amino acid at position 288 in TM3 regulate glycine and anesthetic sensitivity of the GlyR and that this residue might represent one determinant of an anesthetic binding site.
The effect of cold work on the precipitation kinetics of an advanced austenitic steel

Abstract The precipitation kinetics of an advanced austenitic steel, modified with stabilizing additions of titanium, niobium and vanadium, has been studied in both the solution-annealed and the solution-annealed plus cold-worked conditions, for times up to 3000 h at 800°C. Matrix phosphide precipitates and a very few MC precipitates evolved in the solution-annealed material. In contrast, stable MC matrix precipitate distributions were observed after only one hour at 800°C and persisted for 3000 h in the samples which were solution annealed and cold worked. Observations using transmission electron microscopy provide an explanation for the significant improvements in creep rupture strength observed in the advanced alloy compared with 316 stainless steel.
Biosystematics of three taxa in the Amblyseius finlandicus group from south africa, with comparative life history studies (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Abstract Hybridization tests indicated that 2 morphologically distinct populations of Amblyseius in the finlandicus species group on citrus trees from Addo and Citrusdal, South Africa, were both A. addoensis van der Merwe and Ryke. These are designated as subspecies addoensis stat. nov. and rubicolus comb. nov., respectively. A third population, from Rustenberg, was not reproductively compatible with the other 2, and was determined as A. citri van der Merwe and Ryke. Morphological data and a tabular key are included. Biological studies indicated that pollen of Malephora crocea Jacq. was a more favorable food for development and reproduction than eggs and larvae of Tetranychus pacificus McGregor. The eggs of A. citri survived at lower R. H.'s than those of the 2 subspecies of rubicolus.
Receptors with low affinity for neurosteroids and GABA contribute to tonic inhibition of granule cells in epileptic animals.

Abstract Neurosteroid sensitivity of GABAA receptor mediated inhibition of the hippocampal dentate granule cells (DGCs) is reduced in animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy. However, the properties and subunit composition of GABAA receptors mediating tonic inhibition in DGCs of epileptic animals have not been described. In the DGCs of epileptic animals, allopregnanolone and L-655708 sensitivity of holding current was diminished and δ subunit was retained in the endoplasmic reticulum and its surface expression was decreased the in the hippocampus. Ro15-4513 and lanthanum had distinct effects on holding current recorded from DGCs of control and epileptic animals suggesting that the pharmacological properties of GABAA receptors maintaining tonic inhibition in DGCs of epileptic animals were similar to those containing the α4βxγ2 subunits. Furthermore, surface expression of the α4 subunit increased and a larger fraction of the subunit co-immunoprecipitated with theγ2 subunit in hippocampi of epileptic animals. Together, these studies revealed that functional α4βxδ and α5βxγ2 receptors were reduced in the hippocampi of epileptic animals and that novel α4bxγ2 receptors contributed to the maintenance of tonic inhibition. The presence of α4βxγ2 receptors resulted in low GABA affinity and neurosteroid sensitivity of tonic currents in the DGCs of epileptic animals that could potentially increase seizure vulnerability. These receptors may represent a novel therapeutic target for anticonvulsant drugs without sedative actions.
Merlin, the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene product, and β1 integrin associate in isolated and differentiating Schwann cells

Neurofibromatosis type 2, a disease characterized by the formation of multiple nervous system tumors, especially schwannomas, is caused by mutation in the gene-encoding merlin/schwannomin. The molecular mechanism by which merlin functions as a tumor suppressor is unknown, but is hypothesized to involve plasma membrane and cytoskeleton interaction. Several merlin antibodies were used to study merlin expression, localization, and protein association in primary cultures of rat sensory neurons, Schwann cells (SCs), and SCs grown with neurons (SC/N cultures) before and during differentiation into myelinating cells. Western blot analysis revealed that neurons predominantly expressed a 68-kD protein, but SCs expressed two additional 88- and 120-kD related proteins. Extensive immunological characterization demonstrated that the 88-kD protein shared three domains with the 68-kD merlin protein. Western blot analysis of soluble and insoluble culture fractions demonstrated that the majority of merlin and related proteins were soluble in isolated SCs and undifferentiated SC/N cultures, but became insoluble in myelinating SC/N cultures. Double immunofluorescence staining suggested that merlin translocated from the perinuclear cytoplasm in undifferentiated SCs to the subplasmalemma in differentiating SCs and partially colocalized with β1 integrin. Finally, β1 integrin antibody coimmunoprecipitated 68-kD merlin from isolated SC and undifferentiated SC/N cultures, but predominantly the 88-kD protein from differentiating SC/N cultures. Together, these results provide evidence that merlin interacts with β1 integrin and that merlin localization changes from a cytosolic to cytoskeletal compartment during SC differentiation. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Neurobiol 37: 487–501, 1998
Chylous Effusions, Extravasation of Lymphographic Contrast Material, Hypoplasia of Lymph Nodes and Lymphocytopenia

A patient presented with chylous effusions in the chest and abdominal cavities. Lymphography demonstrated extravasation of contrast material into both cavities which leaked from the lymphatics, as had the chylous lymph which caused the effusions. The lymph loss was accompanied by lymphocytopenia. The presence of unexplained lymphocytopenia in a patient with pleural or abdominal effusion should suggest the possibility that the effusion is chylous. There was notable iliopelvic and juxta-aortic lymph node hypoplasia, but we could not be certain whether this was an initial component of the lymphatic abnormality or whether this represented lymph node depletion of lymphocytes. Before death, immature lymphocytes appeared in the chylothorax fluid which led to a suspicion of malignant lymphoma, but this was not confirmed. Attention is directed to the possibility of confusing grossly immature lymphocytes which appear after lymphocyte depletion, as with recurrent chylous effusion, with cells from a malignant lymphoma.
Is Local Government Spending Converging

A substantial body of theoretical and empirical evidence demonstrates that interregional competition for factors of production leads to convergence of per capita output. Is there an analogous process that leads to convergence of public sector activity? Skidmore et al. develop a model that is consistent with the macroeconomic growth literature, which predicts convergence in government spending. Using this framework, we test for convergence in government spending using detailed data from Wisconsin for a variety of municipal government expenditure categories over the period 1990–2000. Our empirical investigation provides compelling evidence of convergence in per capita government spending for all the expenditure categories we study.
Trace constituent updates in the Marshall engineering thermosphere and global reference atmospheric model

Abstract Global reference atmospheric model (GRAM-99) is an engineering-level model of Earth’s atmosphere. It provides both mean values and perturbations for density, temperature, pressure, and winds, as well as monthly and geographically varying trace constituent concentrations. From 0 to 27 km, GRAM thermodynamics and winds are based on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Global Upper Air Climatic Atlas (GUACA) climatology. Above 120 km, GRAM is based on the NASA Marshall engineering thermosphere (MET) model. In the intervening altitude region, GRAM is based on middle atmosphere program (MAP) climatology that also forms the basis of the 1986 COSPAR International reference atmosphere (CIRA). Atmospheric composition is represented in GRAM by concentrations of both major and minor species. Above 120 km, MET provides concentration values for N 2 , O 2 , Ar, O, He, and H. Below 120 km, represented species also include H 2 O, O 3 , N 2 O, CO, CH 4 , and CO 2 . At 34th COSPAR a comparison was made between GRAM constituents below 120 km and those provided by Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) climatology. No current need to update GRAM constituent climatology in that height range was identified. This report examines GRAM/MET constituents between 100 and 1000 km altitudes. Internal discrepancies are noted between GRAM/MET constituent number densities and mass density or molecular weight. Near 110 km altitude, there is up to about 25% discrepancy between MET number density and mass density (with mass density being valid and number densities requiring adjustment). Near 700 km altitude there is also up to about 25% discrepancy between MET number density and mean molecular weight (with molecular weight requiring adjustment). In neither case are MET mass density estimates invalidated. The discrepancies have been traced to MET subroutines SLV (which affects 90–170 km height range) and SLVH (which affects helium above 440 km altitude). With these discrepancies corrected, results are presented to illustrate GRAM/MET constituent mole fractions in terms of height-latitude cross-sections from 100 to 1000 km altitude, and latitude–longitude “maps” at 450 km. Plans are discussed for an update of MET and GRAM to correct these constituent inconsistencies, and to incorporate several new thermospheric model features.
Catalysts for the self-polymerization of adenosine cyclic 2', 3'-phosphate.

When adenosine cyclic 2′,3′-phosphate is evaporated from solution in the presence of simple catalysts such as aliphatic diamines at alkaline pH, and maintained in a dry state at moderate temperatures (25-85°C), self-polymerization to give oligonucleotides of chainlength up to at least 6 is observed. The products contain an excess of [3′→5′]-linkages over [2′→5′]-linkages. The effects of different catalysts and reaction conditions on the efficiency of the reaction are described. The prebiological relevance of these reactions is discussed.
Eosinophil fluorescence: a cause of false positive slide tests for herpes simplex virus.

: Two neonates who had different vesicular eruptions were erroneously diagnosed as having herpes simplex infections because of false positive results of herpes simplex fluorescent antibody slide tests. The infants, who proved to have incontinentia pigmenti and histiocytosis X, respectively, had multiple vesicular lesions containing numerous eosinophils. Eosinophils are known to show nonspecific fluorescence in immunofluorescent techniques because the fluorescein isothiocyanate label of the antiserum binds with the basic proteins in the eosinophilic granules. Clinicians should be aware that nonspecific eosinophil fluorescence may result in false positive results of immunofluorescent slide tests.
The interaction range in alkali metal-promoted systems

Abstract The available experimental data of systems in which a molecule, mainly CO, is coadsorbed with an alkali metal on a metal surface are summarized with regard to the range of the alkali-coadsorbate interaction. We find that the primary promotion interaction is short-range and localized to 1–2 CO molecules per alkali adatom and is independent of initial alkali coverage. In addition, we find evidence, based primarily on vibrational data, for a longer-range alkali-molecule interaction as well, which is substantially weaker than the short-range interaction.
Comparison of MPEG digital video with super VHS tape for diagnostic echocardiographic readings

Background: Digital recording of echocardiographic studies is on the clinical horizon. However, full digital capture of complete echocardiographic studies in traditional video format is impractical, given current storage capacity and network bandwidth. To overcome these constraints, we evaluated the diagnostic image quality of digital video by using MPEG (Motion Picture Experts Group) compression. Methods and Results: Fifty-eight complete, consecutive studies were recorded simultaneously with the use of MPEG-1 and sVHS videotape. Each matched MPEG and sVHS study pair was reviewed by two from a total of six readers, and findings were recorded with the use of a detailed, computerized reporting tool. Intrareader and interreader discrepancies were characterized as major or minor and analyzed in total and for specific subgroups of findings (left and right ventricular parameters, valvular insufficiency, and left ventricular regional wall motion). Intrareader discrepancies were reviewed by a consensus panel for agreement with either MPEG or sVHS findings. There was an exact concordance between MPEG and sVHS readings in 83% of findings. The majority of discrepancies were minor, with major discrepancies in only 2.7% of findings. There was no difference in the rate of consensus panel agreement with MPEG or sVHS for instances of intrareader discrepancy, either in total or for any subgroup of findings. Interreader discrepancy rates were nearly identical for both MPEG and sVHS. Conclusions: MPEG-1 digital video is equivalent to sVHS videotape for diagnostic echocardiography. MPEG increases the range of practical options for digital echocardiography and offers, for the first time, the advantages of digital recording in a familiar video format. (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 1998;11:819-25.)
Properties of the Langevin and Fokker-Planck equations for scalar fields and their application to the dynamics of second order phase transitions

I consider several Langevin and Fokker-Planck classes of dynamics for scalar field theories in contact with a thermal bath at temperature T. These models have been applied recently in the numerical description of the dynamics of second order phase transitions and associated topological defect formation as well as in other studies of the dynamics of critical phenomena. Closed form solutions of the Fokker-Planck equation are given for a harmonic potential and a dynamical mean-field approximation is developed. These methods allow for an analytical discussion of the behavior of the theories in several circumstances of interest such as critical slowing down at a second order transition and the development of spinodal instabilities.
Effect of center catheterization volume on risk of catastrophic adverse event after cardiac catheterization in children.

Background Procedural volume has been shown to be associated with outcome in cardiac catheterization and intervention in adults. The impact of center-level factors (such as volume) and their interaction with subject- and procedure-level factors on outcome after cardiac catheterization in children is not well described. We hypothesized that higher center catheterization volume would be associated with lower risk of catastrophic adverse events. Methods We studied children and young adults 0 to 21 years of age undergoing one or more cardiac catheterizations at centers participating in the Pediatric Health Information Systems database between 2007 and 2012. Using mixed-effects multivariable regression, we assessed the association between center catheterization volumes and the risk of a composite outcome of death and/or initiation of mechanical circulatory support within 1 day of cardiac catheterization adjusting for patient- and procedure-level factors. Results A total of 63,994 procedures performed on 40,612 individuals from 38 of 43 centers contributing data to the Pediatric Health Information Systems database were included. The adjusted risk of the composite outcome was 0.1%. Increasing annual catheterization laboratory volume was independently associated with reduced risk of the composite outcome (odds ratio per a 100-procedure/y increment 0.78 [95% CI 0.65-0.93], P Conclusions Higher cardiac catheterization laboratory volume was associated with reduced risk of catastrophic adverse outcome in the immediate postcatheterization period in children. The observed benefit of catheterization at a larger volume center may be attributable to transmissible best practices or inextricable benefits of larger systems.
Pathology vs. molecular genetics: (re)defining the spectrum of Alport syndrome.

Malone et al. performed next-generation sequencing on 70 families with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and discovered that 10% had variants in surprising ‘old' genes, COL4A3 and COL4A4 , which are involved in Alport syndrome and thin basement membrane nephropathy. These data show that a subset of renal manifestations associated with COL4A3 or COL4A4 variants cannot be distinguished from FSGS by clinical data or histopathology. Thus, a diagnosis of FSGS may sometimes fall within the spectrum of Alport syndrome.
Contributions of pocket depth and electrostatic interactions to affinity and selectivity of receptors for methylated lysine in water

Dynamic combinatorial chemistry was used to generate a set of receptors for peptides containing methylated lysine (KMen, n = 0–3) and study the contribution of electrostatic effects and pocket depth to binding affinity and selectivity. We found that changing the location of a carboxylate resulted in an increase in preference for KMe2, presumably based on ability to form a salt bridge with KMe2. The number of charged groups on either the receptor or peptide guest systematically varied the binding affinities to all guests by approximately 1–1.5 kcal mol−1, with little influence on selectivity. Lastly, formation of a deeper pocket led to both increased affinity and selectivity for KMe3 over the lower methylation states. From these studies, we identified that the tightest binder was a receptor with greater net charge, with a Kd of 0.2 μM, and the receptor with the highest selectivity was the one with the deepest pocket, providing 14-fold selectivity between KMe3 and KMe2 and a Kd for KMe3 of 0.3 μM. This work provides key insights into approaches to improve binding affinity and selectivity in water, while also demonstrating the versatility of dynamic combinatorial chemistry for rapidly exploring the impact of subtle changes in receptor functionality on molecular recognition in water.
Degradation of ricin in castor seed meal by temperature and chemical treatment

Abstract Oil from the seed of the castor plant (Ricinus communis L.) is an important commodity for a number of industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals to renewable energy resources. However, the seed and subsequent seed meal contain ricin (RCA60), a potent cytotoxin, making it an unusable product. In order to investigate the efficiency of previously researched methods of reducing the toxicity of the meal, cold-pressed oil extracted seed meal known to contain ricin was boiled in the presence of 50 mM calcium hydroxide (pH 12.5). However, boiling of this seed meal in the presence of calcium hydroxide produced no significant difference from boiling alone. Therefore, heat and chemical treatments were performed to determine their effects on the denaturation of the ricin within whole seed, milled un-extracted seed, and cold-pressed extracted seed. Boiling and autoclaving showed varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the sample type. Ricin within the cold-pressed extracted meal was rendered unresponsive to antibody probing after 10 min of boiling or autoclaving. In contrast, treatment of cold-pressed extracted meal with 8 M urea and 6 M guanidine–HCl for 60 min produced no observable reduction in the response of the ricin to the antibody. Critically, hot pressing of the castor seed produced meal that exhibited no reactivity with the antibody, indicating that the ricin had been denatured during the oil extraction. By removing the toxic component of the castor meal, this by-product could create a new commodity from the production of castor oil, thereby making castor oil production more profitable.
Details of the Cranial Anatomy of a Primitive Diplacodont Brontothere, cf. Protitanotherium, from the Wiggins Formation of Wyoming (Mammalia, Perissodactyla, Brontotheriidae)

ABSTRACT A remarkably well-preserved primitive horned brontothere skull from the Wiggins Formation of western Wyoming is described. Noteworthy characters of this specimen include an extensive system of large paranasal sinuses, a distinct vomerine plate, and a confluence of the anterior lacerate foramen and foramen rotundum. A nearly complete endocranial cast allows for a description of the brain and many of the cranial nerves. Perhaps the most important structures described are the large openings on the basicranium, here dubbed “sphenoidal apertures,” which may be unique among the Brontotheriidae. Among North American brontothere taxa, the skull is closest in morphology to the holotype of Protitanotherium emarginatum Hatcher, but has some important differences that make assignment to that genus and species uncertain. If reference to the genus Protitanotherium is correct, then the name P. australis (Wilson) may apply, although this may be a junior synonym of P. superbum Osborn. Given the uncertainties, the...
Immuno-histochemistry of keratin in normal and diseased human oral epithelium

Abstract Immuno-reactivity of human oral epithelial proteins was investigated by indirect immuno-fluorescence microscopy in normal and pathological conditions. Reactivity to antiserum was seen throughout the epithelium in normal oral mucosa and in lichen planus. Reactivity of epithelial cells was variable in erythema multiforme, pemphigoid and pemphigus.
Inhibition of Organic Binding of Iodine with Graded Doses of Iodide in Euthyroid Men

ABSTRACT The inhibition of thyroidal organic binding of iodine by iodide (Wolff-Chaikoff effect) was studied in 15 euthyroid men. The subjects received 5 U thyrotropin im for 3 consecutive days and varying doses of iodide for 48 hr before measuring the thyroid uptake of 132I. After the determination of the 3 hr thyroid 132I uptake, serum iodide, and thyroid iodide uptake, 1 g potassium perchlorate was given orally and thyroid 132I was measured 1 hr later. A positive response indicative of inhibition of organic binding was defined as a loss of 15% 132I in the thyroid at 3 hr. The base line thyroid uptake (5.00 ± 0.96%) and thyroid iodide uptake (4.48 ± 0.53 μg/hr) increased 3-fold with the administration of thyrotropin. As iodide intake increased, the serum iodide increased, the thyroid 132I uptake fell, but the thyroid iodide uptake increased progressively. A positive perchlorate response occurred in 11 subjects at iodide doses ranging from 1 to 16 mg daily, serum iodide concentrations of 2.5 to 36.9 μg/1...
Properties of diamond structure SnGe films grown by molecular beam epitaxy

Abstract Using molecular beam epitaxy, we have successfully grown thin films of Ge 1− x Sn x on silicon (100) substrates. These films have been analyzed structurally by Auger Electron Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, and Rutherford Backscattering. The electrical and optical properties have been investigated by Hall effect and IR absorption spectroscopy. During the initial stages of growth, the tin accumulates on the surface. As the growth proceeds, tin from this accumulated reservoir begins to incorporate until steady state growth is achieved. Increased optical absorption is observed at long wavelengths in higher tin content alloys, and the magnitudes suggest that it is from the direct gap of the semiconductor. On exposure to air a thin oxide layer is formed. The films are found to be unstable above 190°C.
Attitude Motion of Asymmetric Dual-Spin Spacecraft

An exact analytical solution is obtained for the attitude motion of a class of asymmetric dual-spin spacecraft which may be modeled as free systems of two rigid bodies, one asymmetric and one axisymmetric. The type system considered constitutes a gyrostat. The symmetry axis of the axisymmetric rigid body and either the axis of the largest, or that of the smallest, moment of inertia of the system are assumed to be parallel. Zero internal torque is assumed also. The integral of rotational angular momentum of the system, an integral of energy of the system and the constancy of the symmetry-axis component of rotational angular momentum of the symmetric body are used to reduce the solution of the problem to quadratures, which are evaluated in terms of Jacobian elliptic functions and elliptic integrals. Internal resonances, which may exist in imperfect spacecraft, are discussed. Resonance curves, constructed using the exact solution, are presented for a typical, asymmetric, dualspin spacecraft.
Ionophore-based membrane electrodes: New analytical concepts and non-classical response mechanisms

A number of new, non-classical concepts relating to the development, principles, and applications of potentiometric ionophore-based polymeric membrane electrodes are reviewed. While already widely used in industry and clinical laboratory instrumentation for measurement of simple cations and anions, recent research efforts have suggested exciting new advances in this field. These advances include: (a) a dramatic lowering of the detection limits by controlling the magnitude and direction of flux of the analyte ion through the polymeric membrane; (b) direct potentiometric determination of total ion concentrations using sensors designed with high ion fluxes toward the inner electrolyte solution; (c) identification of ionophore systems in which response slopes are apparently twice Nernstian due to changes in membrane ion activities as a function of sample ion concentration; (d) ion-exchanger-based membranes that respond via a non-equilibrium response mechanism to important polyion species (e.g. heparin); (e) the potentiometric response of membranes to neutral species, including surfactants; and (f) the EMF response of membranes via redox reactions between the ionophore and the target ion (e.g. sulfite/bisulfite sensors).
Fast-neutron scattering from elemental rhenium

Results of measurements of neutron scattering from elemental rhenium are presented over incident-energy regions 0.3–1.5 MeV and 4.5–10.0 MeV. The first of these supplements previously reported work at this laboratory, and the second consists of studies in an entirely new energy range. These experimental results are interpreted in terms of optical–statistical and coupled-channels models, including consideration of dispersive effects. Some basic and applied physical implications of these considerations are discussed. Comparisons are made with other regional models and with evaluated nuclear-data files used in applications.
Adolescent experience with intrauterine device insertion and use: a retrospective cohort study.

Abstract Background Adolescents contribute disproportionately to the epidemic level of unintended pregnancy in the USA. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are highly effective but underutilized in this age group. Study Design We searched our electronic clinic database to identify females ≤ 19 years old who underwent attempted IUD insertion between January 2007 and June 2009. This retrospective cohort study primarily compared the insertion and postinsertion experiences between nulliparous and parous teens. Results Of the 307 charts reviewed, the majority of subjects were white (73.4%) and nulliparous (77.5%), with a median age of 18 years (range 15–19). The vast majority (96.4%, 296/307) had a successful IUD insertion upon first attempt; all of the 11 unsuccessful IUD insertion attempts were among nulliparous teens. Follow-up was available for 56% (172/307). During the first 12 months of use, there were 2.9% (5/172) IUD expulsions and 24.4% (42/172) removals, with no differences between nulliparous and parous teens. IUD continuation at 6 months was 83.3%. Pelvic inflammatory disease was diagnosed in 4.6% (8/172) of post-IUD insertions. There were no pregnancies reported in those teens with IUD continuation, while six were reported in subjects who underwent IUD removal. Independent predictors of IUD discontinuation were a history of chronic pelvic pain or dysmenorrhea, and bleeding and/or pain complaints at any post-IUD visit. Conclusions Overall, adolescents experience minimal complications with IUD use, with similar rates of successful insertion as adults. IUD discontinuation rates were not significantly different between nulliparous and parous teens. While discontinuation was higher than reported in adults, it was lower than reported among teens using other forms of contraception.
Response of Chickpea Cultivars to Application of Boron in Boron‐Deficient Calcareous Soils

Abstract This study was conducted to investigate the effects of four boron (B) doses (control, 0 kg B ha−1; B1, 1 kg B ha−1; B2, 3 kg B ha−1; and B3, 6 kg B ha−1) in soils deficient in available B (0.19 mg B kg−1) and lime (CaCO3) content (20.7%) on yield and some yield components of five chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes, namely Akcin‐91, Population, Gokce, Izmir‐92, and Menemen‐92 in central Anatolian Turkey in the 2002 and 2003 growing seasons. Plant height, pods per plant, grain yield, protein content, protein yield, thousand seed weight, and leaf B concentration were measured. Grain yields in all genotypes (except for Gokce) were significantly increased by 1 kg ha−1 B application. Application of 1 kg ha−1 B increased the yield by an average of 5%. Genotypes studied showed significant variations with respect to their responses to additional B. Akcin‐91 gave the highest grain yield (1704.8 kg ha−1) at 3 kg B ha−1, whereas Population, Izmir‐92, and Menemen‐92 yielded best (1468.2 kg ha−1, 1483.0 k...
The effect of second phase volume fraction on the erosion resistance of metal-matrix composites

Abstract Metal-matrix composites that consist of a ductile metal-matrix and hard ceramic particles are often used as materials of choice for protection against solid particle erosion. In this study, a model Ni–Al 2 O 3 system was chosen to analyze the effect of hard second phase particles on erosion resistance. This system consists of hard Al 2 O 3 particles dispersed within a ductile Ni matrix. Two processing techniques were used to fabricate the Ni–Al 2 O 3 composites. First, a hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technique was used to produce bulk Ni–Al 2 O 3 alloys. These composite samples contained 0–45 vol.% of Al 2 O 3 with an average particle size of 12 μm. Second, an electrodeposition technique was developed and Ni–Al 2 O 3 coatings with various volume fractions of Al 2 O 3 (0–39 vol.%) were produced on a pure Ni substrate. In contrast to the bulk powder composites, the electrodeposited composites contained much smaller Al 2 O 3 particles (≈1 μm). Erosion testing was conducted at impact angle of 90° using angular alumina. It was found that for both type of composites, an increase in Al 2 O 3 content led to an increase in erosion rate of the composites and pure Ni showed the best erosion resistance. However, the electrodeposited Ni–Al 2 O 3 alloys exhibited better erosion resistance than the powder processed Ni–Al 2 O 3 alloys. For erosion test conditions used, the smaller Al 2 O 3 particles in the Ni matrix were more beneficial in terms of erosion resistance than the large Al 2 O 3 particles.
Interactive effects of working memory span and text context on reading comprehension and retrieval

Abstract This study examined the effects of the interaction of working memory span (WMS) and assigned perspectives (contexts) on the retrieval of information from a passage under the same or alternative perspective. The effects were measured in terms of the correspondence of recalled ideas to the originally assigned perspective (encoding relevance). Control subjects were not assigned a perspective. WMS was found to be related to the amount of information recalled on each of two recall trials. Compared to a no-context control group, the assigned context significantly facilitated recall of corresponding information at all WMS levels. A switch in perspective on the second recall trial led to increased recall of new ideas for readers at all WMS levels. The most important finding, however, was that unlike the high and medium WMS groups, the low WMS group omitted a significantly larger number of encoding-relevant ideas on the second recall trial, compared to the number produced on the first recall trial. The implications of these findings for practices of providing contexts in reading comprehension and in test administration were noted. The findings provide support for the premises of WMS capacity and selective attention theories.
Advanced layout parameter extraction and detailed timing simulation of GaAs gate arrays in MagiCAD

This paper discusses the features and function of three specific computer aided design tools contained in the Mayo Graphical Integrated Computer Aided Design (MagiCAD) system a complete electronic CAD software package optimized for the design and layout of semicustom (i. e. gate array) Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) integrated circuits. The first design tool the Layout Extractor processes data from placed and routed gate arrays. The Extractor verifies that the layout represents the original logic design and calculates the parasitic capacitance of the individual wiring segments in the logic nets after they have been routed. The capacitance information as calculated by the Layout Extractor is significant in GaAs work since the delay in signals traveling through the routing is often much greater than the delay of the signals traveling through the gates themselves. Once the capacitance data has been processed by the Layout Extractor it becomes available to the second CAD tool discussed here the MagiCAD timing simulation program Sting. Sting a digital event-driven simulator depends on user generation of C language-like behavioral models for all root nodes to be simulated. Through the use of delays calculated by the Extractor from the actual routing and input pin capacitances Sting assures that the entire chip design will operate correctly at the intended clock rate. The third design tool is a set of programs allowing simulation of the electromagnetic behavior of integrated circuit packages circuit© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Use of salt-marsh peat reefs by small juvenile lobsters on Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The habitats utilized by small juvenile (<40 mm carapace length, CL) lobsters (Homarus americanus) are poorly known. We discovered and studied an undescribed juvenile lobster habitat in Nauset Marsh, Cape Cod. Juvenile lobsters (X=26.7 mm carapace length, 6 to 72 mm, n=38) were collected from suction samples primarily 0144 01 in “peat reef” habitats during the period from August 1985 through October 1986. The reefs consisted of large blocks ofSpartina alterniflora peat that had separated from the marsh surface and fallen into adjacent subtidal marsh channels. The smallest lobsters (6 to 7 mm CL) were collected from peat reefs in October 1985, and April and July 1986. In these habitats, juvenile lobster density averaged 2.5 individuals m−2 (range 0–5.7) in suction samples. Peat reef habitats occur in other salt marshes in the northeastern United States and may be an important nursery habitat for small juvenile lobsters.