cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of urea nitrogen on fruitfulness and fruit quality of starkspur golden delicious apple trees

Abstract Urea at 868 kg N/ha was applied in the spring of 1982 and 1983 on a high density orchard (6944 trees/ha) of ‘Starkspur Golden Delicious’ apples. Nitrogen—induced changes in fruit N, P, Ca and B composition were less than variability between years. Two yield components, fruit set in 1982 and percent floral buds in 1984, were significantly increased by the N application. Leaf N was positively correlated with percent floral buds and with fruit yield in 1983. The percent of yellow fruit and the soluble solid levels were decreased by the N application. Even though high N fruits differed from low N fruits within a single season, absolute concentrations were of little value. Drastically different fruit element contents between years were not associated with substantial changes in fruit set, number of floral buds, color, soluble solids, or yield.
Ultrastructural immunohistochemical localization of poliovirus during virulent infection of mice

Ultrastructural immunohistochemistry was used to localize type 2 human poliovirus (HPV 2) during virulent infection of mice caused by the Lansing strain. In the spinal cord, immune-reaction product was exclusively localized within neurons and their processes. The absence of viral antigen in glial, endothelial and inflammatory cells further supports the strict neuronotropicity of HPV. In addition, viral antigen and virus-like particles were localized in synaptic complexes and axons, including preterminal axons. This clear demonstration of HPV in neuronal cell bodies, their axons, and synaptic elements strongly supports the hypothesis of HPV dissemination in the central nervous system via axonal transport.
Quantitative characterization of porosity in stainless steel LENS powders and deposits

Laser Engineered Net Shaping (LENS) utilizes a laser beam to melt fine powders to produce three-dimensional engineering structures line by line and layer by layer. When building these structures, defects including lack-of-fusion (LOF) at interlayer boundaries and intralayer porosity are sometimes observed. LOF defects can be minimized by adjusting processing parameters, but the sources of intralayer porosity are less apparent. In this paper, the amount and size distributions of 17-4PH and 304L powders and pores within the powder were characterized in parallel with the intralayer porosity in LENS deposits fabricated from the same materials. Intralayer porosity increased with increased powder porosity; but was not well correlated with deposition parameters. The results demonstrate the importance of careful characterization and specification of starting powders on the quality of the final LENS deposits.
The effect of solute—membrane affinity on cyclic hydrocarbon—water transport in pressure-driven membrane separation processes☆

Abstract Experimental results for the pressure-driven membrane separation of cyclic hydrocarbons (1,3-cyclohexadiene, cyclohexene, and cyclohexane) from dilute binary aqueous solution using asymmetric cellulose acetate membranes are reported here. In these experiments, total solution fluxes are significantly lower than pure water fluxes at the same applied pressure; this flux reduction is attributed to strong solute—membrane affinity rather than to the osmotic pressure of either the bulk retentate or the boundary layer. An empirical parameter, Z , is used to describe flux reduction. A theoretically based friction parameter, B , is derived assuming the membrane can be represented as an ideal, finely porous membrane; this parameter indicates the influence of solute—membrane affinity on flow through the pores of the membrane. Both the empirical parameter Z and the theoretically based parameter B relate flux reduction to concentrations in the system. Both Z and B increase as solute—membrane affinity increases and decrease as membrane pore size increases. It is concluded that both the empirical flux reduction parameter, Z , and the theoretically based friction parameter, B , indicate the same system properties: solute—membrane affinity and membrane pore size.
Sebaceous gland carcinoma of the eyelid seventeen years after irradiation for bilateral retinoblastoma.

Sebaceous gland carcinoma of the eyelid seventeen years after irradiation for bilateral retinoblastoma
Novel clinic-to-lab connectivity architecture for telemammography

One of the goals of the National Cancer Institute cancer control program to reach more than 80% of the eligible women in mammography screening by the year 2000 has not been fully realized and yet remains as a challenge. That is primarily due to (1) the fact that examination process is a complex and lengthy one, and (2) it is not available to the majority of women who live in remote and urban sites. This problem can be solved using advanced networking technologies and signal processing algorithms.
Behavioral management of a long-term survivor with tetrasomy 18p.

We report on a 41-year-old male with dysmorphic features, marked obesity, profound mental retardation, and aggressive behavior who was recently diagnosed with tetrasomy of the short arm of chromosome 18, [47, XY, i(18)(p10)]. His initial diagnosis, based upon chromosomal analysis at 6 years of age in 1969, was “trisomy F syndrome.” Approximately 60 cases of tetrasomy 18p are reported in the literature, with little information regarding their long-term behavioral profiles or outcomes from therapy. We describe the behavioral management as well as the medical and genetic evaluation for this older patient with tetrasomy. With improved preventive care and intervention, patients with rare chromosomal abnormalities are living longer and, therefore, provide insight into the natural history of their disorders. Efforts need to be directed toward behavior management, social skills training, and augmentation of communication if the quality of life of these individuals is to continue to improve. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Endothelial cell integrin laminin receptor expression in multiple sclerosis lesions.

Laminin, a major glycoprotein component of vessel basement membranes, is recognized by β 1 - and β 3 -integrins expressed on endothelial cells. To determine how endothelial cell integrins might function in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, integrin laminin receptors and laminin were analyzed in central nervous system samples from MS patients and controls by immunohistochemistry. In active MS lesions, endothelial cell VLA-6 and β 1 subunits were decreased compared to controls whereas α v subunit and VLA-1 were increased. In chronic inactive lesions β 1 , VLA-6 and α v were the same as controls but VLA-1 remained increased. α 3 subunit was constant in all samples. By immunoelectron microscopy VLA-1, VLA-6, β 1 , and laminin were distributed throughout endothelial cells; α v was adjacent to and on luminal surfaces; α v and VLA-1 were on intercellular junctions. These results indicate distinct regulation and functions of these integrins in different lesion stages. In active lesions decreased endothelial cell β 1 /VLA-6 could result in their detachment from laminin thereby facilitating leukocyte transvascular migration and blood-brain barrier breakdown. α v and VLA-1 on intercellular junctions may participate in re-establishing vessel integrity after leukocyte migration. Luminal surface α v also likely binds intraluminal ligands and cells. In chronic inactive plaques persistently elevated endothelial cell VLA-1 correlates with longstanding endothelial cell and blood-brain barrier dysfunction.
How Chemistry and Physics Meet in the Solid State

To make sense of the marvelous electronic properties of the solid state, chemists must learn the language of solid-state physics, of band structures. An attempt is made here to demystify that language, drawing explicit parallels to well-known concepts in theoretical chemistry To the joint search of physicists and chemists for understanding of the bonding in extended systems, the chemist brings a great deal of intuition and some simple but powerful notions. Most important among these is the idea of a bond, and the use of frontier-orbital arguments. How to find localized bonds among all those maximally delocalized bands? Interpretative constructs, such as the density of states, the decomposition of these densities, and crystal orbital overlap populations, allow a recovery of bonds, a finding of the frontier orbitals that control structure and reactivity in extended systems as well as discrete molecules.
Gel electrophoretic identity of the (Na+ + Mg2+)- and (Na+ + Ca2+)-stimulated phosphorylations of rat brain ATPase

Abstract The classical E 2 -P intermediate of (Na + + K + )-ATPase dephosphorylates readily in the presence of K + and is not affected by the addition of ADP. To determine the significane in the reaction cycle of (Na + + K + )-ATPase of kinetically atypical phosphorylations of rat brain (Na + + K + )-ATPase we compared these phosphorylated components with the classical E 2 -P intermediate of this enzyme by gel electrophoresis. When rat brain (Na + + K + )-ATPase was phosphorylated in the presence of high concentrations of Na + a proportion of the phosphorylated material formed was sensitive to ADP but resistant to K + . Similarly, if phosphorylation was carried out in the presence of Na + and Ca 2+ up to 300 pmol/mg protein of a K + -resistant, ADP-sensitive material were formed. If phosphorylation was from [γ- 32 P]CTP up to 800 pmol 32 P/mg protein of an ADP-resistant, K + -sensitive phosphorylated matterial were formed. On gel electrophoresis these phosphorylated materials co-migrated with authentic Na + -stimulated, K + -sensitive, E 2 -P-phosphorylated intermediate of (Na + + K + )-ATPase, supporting suggestions that they represent phosphorylated intermediates in the reaction sequence of this enzyme.
K X-RAY ISOTOPE SHIFTS.

Numerical data are presented for the analysis of $K$ x-ray isotope shift experiments for $30\ensuremath{\le}Z\ensuremath{\le}103$. The isotope shift is expressed in terms of the change in the even moments of the nuclear charge. Additional contributions to the isotope shift are briefly discussed.
Inner and outer sphere complexation between Eu(III) and the haloacetates

Abstract Ultrasonic absorption measurements were carried out on 0.20 M Eu(III) with acetic acid, glycine and the chloroacetates at 25 °C and a pH between 5 and 6. Acetate, glycine and ClCH 2 COOH form inner sphere complexes with Eu(III); Cl 2 CHCOOH forms mixtures of both inner and outer sphere complexes; and Cl 3 CCOOH forms predominantly outer sphere complexes. The significance of these results will be discussed in terms of models presented by Choppin for predicting outer vs. inner sphere complexation.
DISTRIBUTION OF THE XANTHOPHYLL LOROXANTHIN IN DESMIDS (CHAROPHYCEAE, CHLOROPHYTA)1

Forty-seven species of desmids, representing all four families, were examined for the presence of the xanthophyll loroxanthin by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. In the Desmidiaceae 28 of the 35 species examined possessed loroxanthin, and in the Mesotaeniaceae two of the six examined had loroxanthin present. All six species of the families Peniaceae and Closteriaceae examined possessed loroxanthin. Although the distribution of loroxanthin appears to be disjunct in the desmids and does not have strict taxonomic significance, it does follow a coherent pattern consistent with current ideas on desmid phylogeny. This pattern suggests that loroxanthin synthesis probably evolved once in the desmid lineage, with one or more subsequent reversals.
Normalized implicit eigenvector least squares operators for noisy scattered data: radial basis functions

We describe some new methods for obtaining a mathematical representation of a surface that approximates a scattered point cloud, {(x i , y i , z i ) i = 1, . . . , N} without the use or need of normal vector data. The fitting surface is defined implicitly as the level set of a field function which is a linear combination of trivariate radial basis functions. Optimal approximations are based upon normalized least squares criteria which lead to eigenvalue/eigenvector characterizations. The normalized aspect allows for the exclusion of the need of normal vector estimates which is one of the unique features of this new method. Localizing techniques are introduced to allow for the efficient application of these new methods to large data sets. The use of a variety of radial basis functions are introduced through various examples that illustrate the performance and efficiency of the new methods.
Early Childhood Education and Care for Children with Disabilities: Facilitating Inclusive Practice*

In this case study, a co-operative inquiry process was used to facilitate the expansion of inclusive early childhood education and care practices in a rural community in the Midwest. A university and a community researcher first engaged in interviews and site visits, during which they learned how a three-member inclusion team of early care and education professionals initiated changes in practice from self-contained to inclusive special education and therapy. Key practices included responding to families’ priorities, changing roles, and providing integrated services and support for children’s successful transitions into Kindergarten. The second part of the research consisted of action planning during focus groups and community meetings, which resulted in social recognition from the school district, technical assistance through state improvement grant funding, and better preschool options for young children with disabilities.
The Incentive Effects of Flat-Fee and Percentage Commissions for Real Estate Brokers

This paper analyzes the incentive affects of flat-fee and percentage commission systems from the perspective of the economic theory of agency. Under a plausible set of assumptions the systems provide equivalent incentives. However, the relative desirability of the two systems depends upon the pricing strategy employed and factors specific to the individual. In general, neither system perfectly aligns the interests of the agent with those of the property-owner. A surprising result of the analysis is that the optimal listing price when an agent is employed may be below the first-best price. The first-best price, or residual maximizing solution to the principal-agent problem from the perspective of the property-owner, is the solution that would occur if the agent's interests were perfectly aligned with those of the principal. This study suggests that the use of a percentage versus a flat-fee commission may be due to information costs rather than price discrimination on the part of brokers.
Seasonal variability and long term trends of chlorofluorocarbon mixing ratios in the unsaturated zone

To investigate processes that might affect chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) mixing ratios at the water table, a time series was obtained of unsaturated zone soil gas CFCs to depths of ca. 4 m at a site near New York City (NYC). Observed CFC 11, 12, and 113 mixing ratios were lower in winter than expected from either a local, high-resolution time series or remote atmospheric mixing ratios. A diffusion model, which includes seasonal changes in soil temperature, moisture, and CFC solubility, reproduces to first order the observed soil gas mixing ratios for CFC 11 and 12. Underestimation by the model of the seasonal cycle of CFC 11 points to changing levels of sorption to soils due to seasonal changes in temperature as an additional cause of the cycle seen in CFC 11 mixing ratios in soil air. In the case of spring recharge, low CFC mixing ratios in soil air caused by increased solubility may result in low CFC 11 concentrations in groundwater and, when dating groundwater recharged before the 1990s with CFCs, older app...
Angiotensin II(3–8) (ANG IV) hippocampal binding: Potential role in the facilitation of memory

Abstract The present research characterizes a newly discovered ANG II(3–8) (ANG IV) binding site localized in structures associated with memory function (hippocampus, neocortex, cerebellum), as well as other brain stem structures (thalamus, inferior olivary nucleus). This site is not the AT 1 or AT 2 site that binds angiotensins II (ANG II) and III (ANG III) nor does it bind the nonpeptide AT 1 or AT 2 receptor antagonists DuP753 and PD123177, respectively. The intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of ANG IV was ineffective at inducing drinking in rats as compared with equivalent doses of ANG II and III. Although not as effective as ANG II or ANG III, ICV infusion of ANG IV did provoke a pressor response at the highest dose (100 pmol/min), which appeared to be mediated by ANG II (AT 1 )-type receptors and not the specific AIV binding site described here. By contrast, the ICV infusion of ANG IV resulted in greater effects upon retention and retrieval of a passive avoidance task as compared with ANG II. Specifically, ANG II was not different from the ICV infusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid, while ANG IV improved retention and retrieval of this task.
The changing culture of play

The culture of children's play changed at unprecedented rates during the past half-century. The causes are multiple and linked to changes in technology, family, and schooling. Excessive cyber play and parental concerns for safety confine children to sedentary indoor activity; controversial school testing and curricula repress recess and physical activity; extreme poverty restricts resources and opportunities commonly available to affluent families. The consequence of such changes in children's play include deficits in social, physical, cognitive, and emotional health, fitness, and wellbeing. The international community of scholars, foundations, professional organizations and governments are searching for and finding means to reverse these patterns, resulting in a play movement of unprecedented scope and vitality.
Translocation of a confined polymer through a hole.

Based on an analogy between polymer translocation across a free energy barrier associated with polymer worming through a hole and classical nucleation and growth process, the escape time $\ensuremath{\tau}$ is predicted asymptotically to be $N(N/\ensuremath{\rho}{)}^{1/3\ensuremath{\nu}}$. $N$ is the polymer length, $\ensuremath{\rho}$ is the monomer density prior to escape, and $\ensuremath{\nu}$ is the radius of gyration exponent. Monte Carlo simulation data collected in the high salt limit ( $\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{\simeq}3/5$) are in agreement with the asymptotic law and provide vivid details of the escape.
Dentist and laboratory: communication for success

Currently used shade guides have obvious inadequacies. For example, many porcelain materials do not match their shade guide. But communication between dental practitioner and laboratory technician need not suffer because of these defects. Straightforward and specific written instructions, shade diagrams, casts, and clinical photographs can communicate and produce consistently acceptable esthetic results.
The Bulgheria canyon-fan: a small-scale proximal system in the eastern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy)

The Bulgheria canyon-fan system in the eastern Tyrrhenian Sea displays well-developed, small-scale, fluvial-like features and has formed alongside the northern slope of the Sapri peri-Tyrrhenian basin. This study reveals, for the first time, the morphology and course of the present-day system as well as the buried elements based on a Digital Terrain Model and high-resolution seismic profiles interpretation. Two adjacent canyons (Infreschi and Luna) originate in the Cilento outer shelf at a short distance from each other and feed an intraslope basin fan through two main sub-parallel channels that run about 12 and 8 km, respectively. Channel and levee development seems to be controlled primarily by the local slope gradient and by Coriolis forces that induce a faster vertical growth of the right-side features, as is often observed in the Northern Hemisphere. Centrifugal forces, on the other hand, have induced episodic flow-stripping at the meander loops and bends, causing local destruction of the main channel levees rather than new levee growth at the outer bends. Overbank deposits are associated with overspill turbidite deposition in the mid fan where a topographic constraint occurs, whereas large-sediment, low-angle wave fields are mainly developed on the outer fan. Buried features and relict morphologies suggest that the Infreschi channel experienced at least two phases of re-incision since the final stages of the middle Pleistocene. Local re-adjustment of outer lobe growth due to channel avulsion and meander abandonment is possibly a consequence of relative base-level fluctuations. The sedimentary record of the mid and outer fan includes outrun mass wasting deposits from extensive failures of the Sapri slope. Indeed, a marked scar is present on the eastern side of the modern outer lobe that indicates the persistency of mass flow passages up to recent times. In addition to the environmental factors that are currently considered to cause canyon formation on the shelf margin, this study proposes the possibility that the head canyon branch close to the mainland was incised by massive and persistent underground freshwater flow from the adjacent aquifer when the sea-level was lower than at present.
Lessons Learned on a Lan

This paper describes some of the lessons learned from a computer network system that was designed and installed in a calibration laboratory. This network consists of ten Hewlett Packard (HP) 9000 Series 200 and 300 technical computers used to perform Computer Aided Test and Calibration. The two Local Area Networks (LANs) in the system are an HP Shared Resources Manager (SRM) and an IEEE-802.3 (Ethernet) both of which are administered in an HP Unix (HP-UX) environment.
Effect of hydralazine on the blood flow in tumors and normal tissues in rats

The effects of hydralazine on the blood flow in various normal tissues and R3230 Ac adenocarcinomas grown in different sites in rats were studied. Tumors were induced in the kidney, liver, and flank (s.c.) by injection of small pieces of tumors. Tumors were also induced in small intestine, cecum, and mesentery by intraperitoneal injection of finely minced tumor tissue. The blood flow and cardiac output were measured by radioactive microsphere method. An intra-arterial injection of hydralazine at 2.5-10.0 mg/kg significantly reduced the blood flow in most normal tissues, whereas it markedly increased the blood flow in muscle. The blood flow in the brain and testes remained unchanged. The blood flow in the tumors varied depending on the tumor site and was markedly smaller than the blood flow in the host normal tissues in which the tumors grew. The blood flow in tumors decreased significantly upon injection of hydralazine except in the tumors grown in the liver, where the blood flow remained unchanged. The hydralazine injection slightly increased cardiac output and markedly decreased blood pressure. It appeared that the decreases in blood flow by hydralazine in the tumors and most normal tissues were caused mainly by diversion of blood to muscle, resulting in a marked increase in the muscle blood flow without a similar concomitant increase in cardiac output. The results obtained in the present study indicate that hydralazine may be useful for improving the efficacy of hyperthermia or for enhancing the toxicity of hypoxic cell specific bioreductive drugs in treating the tumors grown in skeletal muscle. However, the significant decline in blood flow in most normal tissues may pose potential problems in the use of hydralazine to enhance the effect of hyperthermia or bioreductive drugs on tumors grown in normal tissues other than muscle.
Urologic cancer. Methods of early detection and future developments

Technologic advances in diagnostic imaging have significantly improved the detection and staging accuracy of urologic cancer. Intravenous urography (IVU) is not sensitive for the detection of renal lesions, and a normal IVU does not exclude the presence of renal cancer. At this time, computed tomography (CT) is the method of choice for the detection of renal tumors. Ultrasound (US) can be used for the differentiation of cystic from solid lesions, but CT is more accurate. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging presently is inferior to CT for the detection of renal lesions. However, in the staging of known renal carcinoma, MR surpasses CT in the staging of large lesions or lesions of stage III and IV disease. In the detection of bladder tumors, cystoscopy and biopsy remain the most accurate diagnostic method. CT and MR imaging are indicated for the staging of bladder neoplasms. Transurethral US shows promise, but is still under investigation. At present, the combination of physical examination, transrectal US, and when needed, US-guided biopsy, are the optimal screening approaches for the detection of prostatic carcinoma. For the staging of diagnosed prostatic carcinoma, MR is superior to CT, but neither is accurate in assessing lymph node involvement. As compared with transrectal US, MRI is superior for the evaluation of extension to the bladder base and seminal vesicles. It is hoped that in the near future, localized tissue MR spectroscopy will be used clinically and will improve the specificity of diagnosis of prostatic carcinoma.
Decreased Attraction of Anastrepha ludens to Combinations of Two Types of Synthetic Lures in a Citrus Orchard

Combinations of the previously developed attractants CEHO from host fruit aroma and AMPu from volatile metabolites of amino acids were evaluated for attractiveness to gamma-irradiated Mexican fruit flies, Anastrepha ludens, in a citrus orchard. In one experiment, McPhail traps with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) lures loaded with CEHO (10:1:1:50 mixture of 1,8-cineole, ethyl hexanoate, hexanol, and ethyl octanoate) were more attractive than blank traps. McPhail traps with AMPu (10:10:1 mixture of ammonium bicarbonate, methylamine HCl, and putrescine) were more attractive than blank and CEHO traps. Traps containing both AMPu and CEHO lures were less attractive than traps containing AMPu alone. In another experiment, sticky yellow panels and spheres were used to compare attractiveness of the same two attractants in different formulations. Sticky traps baited with membrane formulations of CEHO (10:1:1:10 mixture of the chemicals listed above) were not significantly attractive. Sticky traps with polypropylene tubes containing an agar formulation of AMPu (6:10:1 mixture of ammonium carbonate, methylamine HCl, and putrescine) were more attractive than blank and CEHO baited traps. As in the first experiment, traps with both AMPu and CEHO lures were less attractive than traps with AMPu alone. Results indicate that attractive host-odor volatiles and attractive amino-acid metabolites interact negatively with regard to attractiveness to the Mexican fruit fly.
Chemical Kinetics of the NaO (A 2Σ+) + O(3P) Reaction†

Recent evidence has shown that the mesospheric sodium nightglow, a chemiluminescent process which produces atomic sodium D-line radiation in the Earth's upper atmosphere, proceeds through the first excited (A 2Σ+) electronic state of NaO. The rate of D-line radiation production is proportional to the rate constant for the reaction of NaO(A 2Σ+) + O(3P) and its branching ratio to produce excited Na(2P) rather than ground-state Na(2S). The only previously published measurement of the NaO + O(3P) reaction rate and branching ratio was performed under slow flow conditions and almost certainly primarily represents the reaction of ground-state NaO (X 2Π). We present low-pressure measurements of the NaO + O reaction kinetics using an NaO source reaction known to produce NaO in the (A 2Σ+) state and determine the 290 K reaction rate constant to be (5.1 ± 1.8) × 10-10 cm3 s-1 and the branching ratio to produce Na(2P) to be 0.14 ± 0.04. New data on the termolecular rate coefficient for the reaction Na + O2 + He → Na...
Cytomorphological alterations of mossy fiber boutons of the hippocampus produced by 3-acetylpyridine, methoxypyridoxine, reserpine, and iproniazid.

The hippocampal mossy fiber boutons of the rabbit were studied with phase and electron microscopy. The injection of 3-acetylpyridine, methoxypyridoxine, and reserpine diminishes the conspicuous osmiophilic density of the mossy fiber boutons in comparison to similar regions from nontreated animals as observable in phase microscopy. However, electron micrographs of the same samples show little or no diminution in the number of those synaptic vesicles consisting of a clear homogeneous center (Type I). Treatment with monoamine liberator, reserpine, results in the same cytomorphological appearance of the boutons as with convulsant agents. The number of synaptic dense-core vesicles (Type II) is not altered after treatment with the convulsant agents or reserpine.
State Austerity and the Racial Politics of Same-Sex Marriage in the US

This article situates contemporary debates about same-sex marriage in relation to the politics of state austerity, particularly 'welfare reform', in the US. While these two issues are rarely thought about together, looking at claims for marriage rights in the context of cutbacks in social welfare programs and the increasing promotion of 'marriage incentives' as a means of getting low-income single mothers off welfare reveals conservative undertones to same-sex marriage campaigns. This article examines the specific benefits that gay and lesbian activists seek to access through marriage, arguing that these benefits are better understood as privileges of a racially stratified welfare state.
Access of over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy products to minors.

Background Public health policy guidelines recommend that health care providers (eg, physicians, nurses, others) counsel adolescent smokers to quit and that nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) may be considered to aid in smoking cessation for nicotine-dependent youth. This recommendation is discrepant with Food and Drug Administration–approved labeling of NRT products, stating that they not be sold to persons younger than 18 years. It is not clear how easily minors are able to purchase NRT products in retail markets. Objective To explore youth access to NRT by conducting the first study, to our knowledge, to determine the ability of minors to purchase over-the-counter NRT products. Design Observational case series of NRT purchase attempts and survey description of store characteristics. Setting Retail businesses in Memphis, Tenn. Participants Population-based sample of 165 stores that sold over-the-counter medications. Main Outcome Measure Successfully completed purchase attempts of NRT by the minor buyer. Results In most stores that stocked NRT products, the age of the minor was not queried at any time during the purchase attempt (79%) and the minor was able to successfully purchase the product (81%). If the minor was asked her age, the store was much less likely to sell the NRT product. Stores in which a cash register gave an age query prompt or in which alcohol was sold were more likely to inquire about the minor's age and less likely to sell NRT products. Conclusions Nicotine replacement therapy products were successfully obtained in most purchases by a minor buyer without proof of age. While ease of purchasing NRT products is potentially beneficial to young smokers attempting to quit, these purchases are discrepant with Food and Drug Administration labeling regarding the sale of NRT products to minors.
[3H]noradrenaline accumulation in cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells: modulation of accumulation by nicotine.

The mechanisms by which catecholamines are transported into adrenal medullary cells are not as well characterized as the high affinity catecholamine uptake system of sympathetic neurones. Therefore, we studied the accumulation of [3H]noradrenaline in 7–21 day old cultures of bovine adrenal cells. Cultured adrenal cells accumulate [3H]noradrenaline. The accumulation process has an apparent Km for noradrenaline of 0.47 μmol/l, is Na+ -dependent, and is inhibited by desipramine, (−)-noradrenaline and (−)adrenaline (IC50's, 0.007, 0.9 and 3.8 μmol/l, respectively). Other aromatic amines also inhibit accumulation with an order of potency, (+)-amphetamine ≥ dopamine > (−)-noradrenaline > (−)-adrenaline ≥ 5-hydroxytryptamine. Nicotine and other stimulants of catecholamine release (acetylcholine and depolarizing K+ concentrations) were found to inhibit [3H]noradrenaline accumulation. Reserpine pretreatment (72 h) or omission of calcium did not prevent nicotine's inhibitory effect on accumulation, but did reduce or inhibit nicotine-induced catecholamine release, suggesting that adrenal [3H]noradrenaline accumulation may be regulated by processes involved with stimulus-secretion coupling (e.g., sodium gradient and/or depolarization) which are independent of release. These results suggest that the catecholamine transport mechanisms of cultured bovine adrenal cells and sympathetic neurones are similar and may be regulated by secretory processes.
Contrast in high-resolution scanning electron microscope images

SUMMARY Current scanning electron microscopes, equipped with field emission guns and high-performance immersion lenses, can achieve spatial resolutions of the order of 1 nm in both secondary and backscattered imaging modes over a wide range of operating energies. The generation and interpretation of images with nanometre-scale resolution relies on a detailed knowledge, and application, of electron-solid interactions. This paper develops the practical steps required to produce a high-resolution image, and discusses the principles which govern image interpretation. Attention is focused primarily on materials which are low in atomic number and density, such as biological tissue, but the results apply after appropriate scaling of the physical parameters to most other materials.
NEUROFILAMENT-L HOMOPOLYMERS ARE LESS MECHANICALLY STABLE THAN NATIVE NEUROFILAMENTS

Neurofilaments are cytoskeletal components of neurones that are thought to play an important structural role in the axon. Specific functions of neurofilaments are not yet well defined; however, other intermediate filaments are known to have structural and mechanical functions in different cell types. The atomic force microscope (AFM) can be used to visualize and manipulate biological structures through direct physical contact. This allows the AFM to be used to probe the mechanical properties of these structures. In this paper we present AFM images of native neurofilaments isolated from bovine spinal cord, composed of NF-L, NF-M and NF-H, and filaments polymerized in vitro from purified NF-L. Morphologically these structures, in solution and under ambient conditions, are in agreement with previous data from electron microscopy. However, repeated scanning of NF-L homopolymers (in solution) produced significant disruptions of segments of filaments, both within and at the ends of the filaments. This disruption resulted in complete loss of portions of the filaments and in breaks in the continuity of the filaments. Repeated scanning of isolated native neurofilaments under similar conditions produced no detectable structural changes. Under extremely high applied forces the native neurofilaments were bent and distorted by the action of the AFM tip, but were never broken. These data suggest that purified NF-L is not sufficient to confer complete mechanical stability to neurofilaments.
The relationship of the initiation stage to the rate of slow crack growth in linear polyethylene

The rate of notch opening was observed in single-edge notched tension specimens of linear high-density polyethylene under plane strain conditions as a function of applied stress and notch depth. The initial rate of notch opening was 22K 4.3 μm min−1 (where units ofK are MN m−3/2). The initial rate of notch opening was constant until the opening at its root was 25 to 30μm for all stresses and notch depths. The accelerating part of the notch opening against time curve and the time to failure could be predicted from the initial rate of notch opening. It is concluded that the same mechanism governs the initiation stage and the subsequent crack growth rate.
Far ultraviolet spectral properties of Saturn’s rings from Cassini UVIS

Abstract Spectra taken by the Cassini Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph (UVIS) of Saturn’s C ring, B ring, Cassini Division, and A ring have been analyzed in order to characterize ring particle surface properties and water ice abundance in the rings. UVIS spectra sense the outer few microns of the ring particles. Spectra of the normalized reflectance ( I / F ) in all four regions show a characteristic water ice absorption feature near 165 nm. Our analysis shows that the fractional abundance of surface water ice is largest in the outer B ring and decreases by over a factor of 2 across the inner C ring. We calculate the mean path length of UV photons through icy ring particle regolith and the scattering asymmetry parameter using a Hapke reflectance model and a Shkuratov reflectance model to match the location of the water ice absorption edge in the data. Both models give similar retrieved values of the photon mean length, however the retrieved asymmetry ( g ) values are different. The photon mean path lengths are nearly uniform across the B and A rings. Shortward of 165 nm the rings exhibit a slope that turns up towards shorter wavelengths, while the UV slope of 180/150 nm (reflectance outside the water absorption ratioed to that inside the absorption band) tracks I / F with maxima in the outer B ring and in the central A ring. Retrieved values of the scattering asymmetry parameter show the regolith grains to be highly backscattering in the FUV spectral regime.
TU-EE-A3-01: Evaluating the Impact of Probe Depression On Prostate Displacement in Ultrasound-Guided Prostate IMRT Treatment

Purpose: The prostate displacement under the mechanical pressure of abdominal ultrasound probe may compromise the accuracy of ultrasound‐guided prostate IMRT treatment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of ultrasound probe depression on the prostate displacement by finite element method(FEM).Method and Materials: An ultrasound system (Restitu™, Resonant Medical System, Montreal, Canada) integrated with a CT‐Sim was used to acquire a full set of 3‐D ultrasound (US)‐CT images for a typical prostate cancer patient. The patient's structures, such as body, bone, bladder, and prostate, were contoured on the CTimages. These structures were utilized to generate a 3D finite element model. The mechanical properties of the patient's tissues and ultrasound probe, including elastic module (E) and Poisson's ratio (v), were set as: body (E=55kPa, v=0.45), bone (E=10GPa, v=0.45), bladder (E=10kPa, v=0.45), prostate (E=100kPa, v=0.45), and probe (E=3GPa, v=0.35), respectively. The corresponding displacement of prostate centroid during ultrasound localization was calculated by a FEM software (Ansys). Results: When the depression of ultrasound probe increased from 10mm to 50mm with an increment of 10mm on the patient's abdomen at an angle of 45 degree to horizontal plane, the displacement of prostate centroid was increased from 0.5mm to 4.9mm in the inferior direction and 0.4mm to 3.6mm in the posterior direction. There was no significant left‐right displacement of the prostate. The 3D vector displacement of prostate centroid is increased from 0.6mm to 6.1mm based on FEM calculation. Conclusion: The displacement of prostate was non‐negligible when the depression of ultrasound probe was more than 20mm on the patient's abdomen. This displacement should be considered in the 3‐D US—CT image‐registration and US‐guided radiation therapy.
The BK virus in renal transplant recipients—review of pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment

The BK virus, a DNA virus from the Polyomavirus group, represents an opportunistic infection of immunosuppressed transplant recipients. Though the virus was discovered approximately 40 years ago, the emergence of BK virus nephropathy since 1995 onwards, with associated high graft loss rates, has revolutionized renal transplantation medicine. Kidney transplant professionals realized that the consequences of over-immunosuppression were as severe as the consequences of under-immunosuppression and we entered the era of immunosuppressive minimization. Despite this recognition, the optimal testing type for BK virus infections and frequency of testing are hotly debated. Similarly, optimal treatment strategies remain sources of intense controversy. The authors review the current strategies of screening, diagnosis, and possible treatment, and also review the amount and quality of evidence in favor or against. Similarities and differences between cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and BV virus, the three major viral infections in kidney transplantation, are highlighted.
Multi-objective ceramic matrix composite material design using the variable fidelity model management optimization framework

The increasing computational requirements of advanced numerical tools for simulating material behaviour can prohibit direct integration of these tools in a design optimization procedure where multiple iterations are required. Therefore, a design approach is needed that can incorporate multiple simulations (multi-physics with different input variables) of varying fidelity in an iterative model management framework that can significantly reduce design cycle times. In this research, a material design tool based on a variable fidelity model management framework is applied to obtain the optimal size of a second phase, consisting of silicon carbide (SiC) fibres, in a silicon-nitride (Si3N4) matrix to obtain continuous fibre SiC-Si3N4 ceramic composites (CFCCs) with maximum high temperature strength and high temperature creep resistance. This investigation shows how models with different dimensions and input design variables can be handled and integrated efficiently by the trust region model management framework...
The beam attenuation to chlorophyll ratio: an optical index of phytoplankton physiology in the surface ocean?

Abstract The particulate beam attenuation coefficient ( c p ) is proportional to the concentration of suspended particles in a size domain overlapping that of the phytoplankton assemblage. c p is largely insensitive to changes in intracellular chlorophyll concentration, which varies with growth irradiance (a process termed ‘photoacclimation’). Earlier studies have shown that the ratio of c p :chlorophyll (i.e., c p * ) exhibits depth-dependent changes that are consistent with photoacclimation. Similar relationships may likewise be expected in the horizontal and temporal dimensions, reflecting changes in mixing depth, incident irradiance, and light attenuation. A link between c p * and more robust photoadaptive variables has never been explicitly tested in the field. Here we use five historical field data sets to directly compare spatial and temporal variability in c p * with two independent indices of photoacclimation: the light-saturated, chlorophyll-normalized photosynthetic rate, P b opt , and the light-saturation index, E k . For the variety of oceanographic conditions considered, a first-order correlation emerged between c p * and P b opt or E k . These simple empirical results suggest that a relationship exists between a bio-optical variable that can potentially be retrieved remotely ( c p * ) and physiological variables crucial for estimating primary productivity in the sea.
Securing the base: electoral competition under variable turnout

I evaluate the ‘Securing the Base’ strategy, which prescribes that candidates position themselves away from the political center in order to maximize turnout among their supporters and reduce defections of their supporters to third party candidates. My results support the notion that voters abstain due to indifference and imply that candidate positioning has a large effect on voter turnout and third party voting. Nonetheless, my results indicate that the candidates can best compete by adopting centrist positions. While a candidate can increase turnout among his supporters by moving away from the center, many moderate voters will defect to his opponent.
Regulation of hyphal growth rate ofHypoxylon mammatum by amino acids: Stimulation by proline

Abstract Variation among isolates ofHypoxylon mammatum caused by amino acids added as sole nitrogen sources demonstrated genetic heterogeneity among the population in the mechanisms regulating hyphal growth rates. Isolates were obtained by a random sample consisting of 22 single ascospore isolates from a local population of hypoxylon cankers onP. tremuloides. Hyphal growth rates were determined from colony diameter measurements on defined media containing either alanine, asparagine, glycine, leucine, lysine, or proline. All isolates but two grew faster on proline than the other amino acids tested. The mean growth rate of the population sample was 3.9 mm day−1 on proline compared to 1.96 mm day−1 on asparagine, the second fastest mean growth rate. Growth rates of the 22 isolates on these six amino acids were largely uncorrelated, indicating independent mechanisms of regulation. Only asparagine gave significant correlations with more than two other amino acids. A more detailed examination of selected isolates representing a range of growth rates on proline showed that the rapid growth rates were also dependent on other materials present in Difco Bacto-Agar. Growth of the proline stimulated isolates was considerably slower on media gelled with Noble agar. Other nitrogen sources, especially glutamate, added with proline stimulated the growth of these isolates. Isolate dependent variation in the stimulatory effect of the N source added with proline was demonstrated. Stimulation of growth rate by proline may be related to drought stress-enhanced canker elongationin vivo, since drought stress caused proline accumulation in the host,Populus tremuloides.
Electrophrenic controlled hyperventilation for EEG activation.

Abstract Hyperventilation induced by electropherenic stimulation is a practical technique for activation of EEG phenomena. Of 8 cases showing changes on voluntary hyperventilation, all showed similar alterations with hyperventilation induced by electrical stimulation.
Paracetamol Crystallization Using Laser Backscattering and ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy: Metastability, Agglomeration, and Control

A systematic approach is developed for the in situ control of the crystal size distribution, and is applied to the aqueous crystallization of paracetamol (acetaminophen) as a model pharmaceutical system. This involves the determination of the solubility curve and the metastable limit, and the operation of concentration-controlled batch crystallization. The solution concentration and the solubility curve of paracetamol in water are determined using attenuated total reflection (ATR)-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy coupled with chemometrics. The metastable zone width of paracetamol is determined using laser backscattering and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Seeded batch crystallizations of paracetamol following a desired supersaturation profile near the metastable limit are carried out using in situ solution concentration measurements obtained from ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. The in situ chord length distributions of crystals obtained from laser backscattering are related to characteristics of the crystal s...