cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Visualization of G Protein−Coupled Receptor (GPCR) Interactions in Living Cells Using Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC)

Members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily have been shown to homo- and hetero-oligomerize both in vitro and in vivo. Although the functional and pharmacological significance of GPCR oligomerization is far from being completely understood, evidence suggests that, depending on the receptor, oligomerization may influence ligand binding, G protein coupling, and receptor targeting. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) is a technique based on the complementation of fragments from fluorescent proteins that allows the measurement and visualization of protein interactions in living cells. It can be extended to the simultaneous detection of distinct protein-protein interactions using a multicolor setup. This unit describes the application of BiFC and multicolor BiFC to the visualization of GPCR oligomerization in a neuronal cell model. Oligomerization of GPCR fusions to BiFC tags is visualized and measured using fluorescence microscopy and fluorometry. The effect of ligands on the relative formation of distinct oligomeric species is monitored with a ratiometric multicolor BiFC approach.
Was the jury ever self informing

Until recently, there was a consensus that the medieval English jury was self-informing. That is, unlike the modern jury, the medieval jury based its verdict primarily on evidence it gathered, learned, or knew before trial. Recently, this consensus has been questioned by historians who argue that medieval jurors often had insufficient knowledge to convict without in-court witness testimony. This essay bolsters the consensus view that medieval jurors in criminal trials were self-informing by marshalling a wide array of new primary source evidence. It also shows, however, that some witnesses testified in medieval trials. Nevertheless, it argues that the appearance of witnesses does not undermine the idea that the jury was self-informing, because such witnesses appeared rarely and usually testified about collateral matters rather than about the defendant's guilt or innocence.
The Emerging Psychology of Social Class

The objective material conditions of our lives shape social perceptions and relationships in fundamental ways. In this essay, I survey research examining the influence of one's social class position in society on basic psychological processes—including conceptions of the self and relationships with others. Insights from this research indicate that relatively lower class individuals are characterized by contextualized selves—selves that are more intertwined with the social environment and other individuals—whereas relatively upper class individuals are characterized by solipsistic selves—selves that are independent from the environment, and instead linked with internal goals, wishes, and motivations. Understanding these class-based differences in the social self—evidenced in social behavior, cognition, and emotion profiles—has the potential to inform interventions that reduce societal problems related to constrained social class mobility and rising economic inequality. Keywords: social class; selves-selves; class-based differences; environmental demands
Perievent Panic Attack and Depression after the World Trade Center Disaster: A Structural Equation Model Analysis

Research suggests that perievent panic attacks – panic attacks in temporal proximity to traumatic events – are predictive of later mental health status, including the onset of depression. Using a community sample of New York City residents interviewed 1 year and 2 years after the World Trade Center Disaster, we estimated a structural equation model (SEM) using pre-disaster psychological status and post-disaster life events, together with psychosocial resources, to assess the relationship between perievent panic and later onset depression. Bivariate results revealed a significant association between perievent panic and both year-1 and year-2 depression. Results for the SEM, however, showed that perievent panic was predictive of year-1 depression, but not year-2 depression, once potential confounders were controlled. Year-2 stressors and year-2 psychosocial resources were the best predictors of year-2 depression onset. Pre-disaster psychological problems were directly implicated in year-1 depression, but not year-2 depression. We conclude that a conceptual model that includes pre- and post-disaster variables best explains the complex causal pathways between psychological status, stressor exposure, perievent panic attacks, and depression onset two years after the World Trade Center attacks.
The Present and Future of Urban Affairs Research

In this special issue of the Journal or Urban Affairs, leading urban scholars share their perspectives on the most fruitful directions for urban research over the next five to 10 years. The authors...
Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co: Hard Look Review of Agency Actions

This brief Article discusses Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co., where the Court struck down a Department of Transportation order rescinding its controversial air bag standard, which required passive restraints (air bags or automatic seatbelts) in all cars. Rescission of the standard was one of the deregulatory goals of the Reagan Administration. In defending the air bag standard rescission, the DOT suggested that the arbitrary and capricious standard required only the rational basis that the due process clause required of congressional statutes. Instead, the Court ruled that the arbitrary and capricious standard demanded a more rigorous substantive "hard look" review, which required a judicial review that is more scrutinizing than that of the traditionally more deferential version of the arbitrary and capricious standard of review.
P300 amplitude and probabilistic judgments.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses P300 amplitude and probabilistic judgments. The amplitude of P300 is determined, at least in part, by the subjective probabilities that a subject assigns to events in a random series: the lower the subjective probability for an event, the larger the P300. Thus, while the objective probabilities of events may remain constant over a series, the individual's subjective probabilities vary predictably from trial to trial, according to the preceding sequence of stimuli. A portion of P300 amplitude appears to be directly related to the level of the processing demands imposed by the subject's task. That is, “simple” tasks such as those that require the subject to count a subset of stimuli, elicit smaller P300s than those that require more complex decisions or responses. Reported here is an experiment in which a decision-making task is randomly imposed on subjects performing a counting task. This is accomplished by reversing the prior probabilities of the events constituting a Bernoulli series at random intervals and requiring the subjects to report when they detected these changes.
Nonstandard Finite-Difference Methods for Dynamical Systems in Biology

A brief overview of the nonstandard finite-difference methods is presented. Next, using the nonstandard discretization approach, a positive and elementary stable numerical method is developed for productive-destructive systems. Finally, a nonstandard finite-difference method for general autonomous dynamical systems is constructed. The proposed numerical methods preserve the positivity of solutions and the local behavior of the corresponding dynamical systems near equilibria; and are also computationally efficient and easy to implement. Applications to select problems in biology are given to demonstrate the performance of the new methods.
Enhanced cytotoxicity of melphalan by prolonged exposure to nitroimidazoles: The role of endogenous thiols

It was first demonstrated that prolonged exposure of hypoxic V-79 cells to misonidazole prior to irradiation produced an increased radiosensitization in 1977; it was postulated that the reduction of misonidazole resulted in intermediates capable of depleting cells of endogenous thiols, substances known to play a role in the hydrogen repair of target radicals produced by ionizing radiation. The present study shows that a prolonged exposure of V-79 cells to a variety of nitroimidazoles (misonidazole, Ro-05-9963, SR-2508, and MTR1-80) results in an enhanced cytotoxicity when these cells are subsequently exposed to melphalan. This process of enhanced melphalan toxicity occurred only when cells were pretreated with misonidazole under hypoxic conditions, suggesting that nitroreduction is necessary for chemosensitization as it is for increased radiosensitization. Different nitroimidazoles tested vary in the extent to which they sensitize cells to the subsequent action of melphalan. Repair from a misonidazole pretreatment is essentially complete by six hours. This study demonstrated that cysteamine could reduce the cytotoxicity of misonidazole and the enhancement of melphalan toxicity. This was an effect reversible with time and one implying similar mechanisms for the preincubation effect observed in vitro for radiation and chemotherapy agents.
Infrared spectra of the ν2 and ν16 bands in the methyl stretch region of jet-cooled 1-butyne

Abstract Rotationally resolved infrared spectra of the ν2 and ν16 bands in the methyl stretch region of jet-cooled 1-butyne are reported at a resolution of 0.02 cm−1. Spectra at rotational temperatures of 1.8 and 4 K are assigned and fit to a rigid rotor Hamiltonian. For the a, b hybrid band ν2, we find the excited state constants (in cm−1), ν0 = 2989.4660(34), A′ = 0.8898(16), B′ = 0.1507(5), and C′ = 0.1365(2). For the c type band ν16, we find (in cm−1), ν0 = 2991.3962(46), A′ = 0.8997(8), B′ = 0.1508(7), and C′ = 0.1379(12). The quantities in parentheses are 2 SD in units of the last digits. Even at this resolution many of the lines appear as multiplets indicating substantial mixing with dark vibrational states.
Two isoforms of NP24: a thaumatin-like protein in tomato fruit.

Abstract Two isoforms (I and II) of the thaumatin-like protein NP24 have been discovered in extracts of tomato fruit. NP24 I increased ca 8-fold during ripening of tomato fruit, whereas NP24 II increased slightly as the fruit began to change colour and then remained constant. Both proteins were purified to homogeneity and one of them, NP24 I, was obtained in crystalline form. The proteins are similar except for differences in binding to cation exchangers and in two amino acids of the N-terminal amino acid sequences. The NP24s were tested as growth inhibitors of six different fungi and found to differ in effectiveness, but both proteins were most effective on Phomo betae and Verticillium dahliae. These proteins may be involved in disease resistance in tomatoes, but the increase in NP24 I during ripening suggests a possible role in fruit development and ripening.
Breakdown stability of gold, aluminum, and tungsten Schottky barriers on gallium arsenide

The stability of the breakdown voltage of Au, Al, and W Schottky barrier diodes fabricated on n-type GaAs has been evaluated. The nearly ideal breakdown voltage of Au diodes was found to degrade upon annealing, even at below 150°C. The breakdown voltage of the as-deposited Al diodes was half that of the Au diodes, and degraded upon annealing at above 450°C. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) measurements revealed penetration of Al into the GaAs. The breakdown voltage of W diodes increased to equal that of the Au diodes upon annealing above 400°C and remained stable at up to 550°C. No interdiffusion at the W/GaAs interface was observed.
Twenty-four-hour periodicity of the startle response in rats

Twenty-four rats were presented with 10 tones at a 30-sec interstimulus interval, once an hour, for 48 h. Startle likelihood showed a pronounced diurnal rhythm with higher responding at night. The period was 24 h and relatively sinusoidal, with no detectable harmonics. Startle rhythmicity was not simply due to diurnal changes in activity, since activity changes in a control group, which was not exposed to tones, were too small to account for the startle differences. Substantial habituation over the 48-h session was also seen, and the results were discussed in terms of their relevance to the design of habituation experiments.
Intermediate Results of Hybrid Versus Primary Norwood Operation

Background In 2007 we began a hybrid program for hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) variants to potentially improve outcome in high-risk patients. During implementation we offered both hybrid and Norwood approaches to all risk categories. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of intermediate survival. Methods Newborns were evaluated jointly for high-risk characteristics, including birth weight less than 2.5 kg, prematurity (especially Results Sixty-eight newborns presented (median 2.96 kg, 8 days); 29 (43%) were high and 39 (57%) were standard risk. There were 14 stage I hospital deaths strongly associated with risk: 3 of 39 standard (7.7%) and 11 of 29 high (38%, p = 0.002). Stage I discharge mortality was highest for high-risk Norwood and high-risk HPGE groups ( p p = 0.0182). With risk stratification there was suboptimal survival for all 3 high-risk groups ( p = 0.003); HDS fared better than HPGE but had higher birth weight ( p Conclusions While a risk-stratified approach for HLHS variant patients with selective use of hybrid palliation resulted in acceptable stage I mortality, the longer term mortality for high-risk patients remains higher than for standard risk regardless of treatment modality. Intrinsic patient risk factors (rather than treatment modality) likely determine long-term outcome in experienced centers. Our current high-risk approach has evolved to HPGE application with Norwood conversion whenever deemed medically possible.
Accounting for burstiness in topic models

Many different topic models have been used successfully for a variety of applications. However, even state-of-the-art topic models suffer from the important flaw that they do not capture the tendency of words to appear in bursts; it is a fundamental property of language that if a word is used once in a document, it is more likely to be used again. We introduce a topic model that uses Dirichlet compound multinomial (DCM) distributions to model this burstiness phenomenon. On both text and non-text datasets, the new model achieves better held-out likelihood than standard latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA). It is straightforward to incorporate the DCM extension into topic models that are more complex than LDA.
Correlation of Cross-Sectional Diameter With Image Quality and Radiation Exposure in MDCT Examinations of the Neck

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to identify an optimal cross-sectional neck diameter that correlates with image quality and radiation exposure in MDCT examinations of the neck performed with automatic tube current modulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Ninety-six adults underwent 64-MDCT of the neck with automatic tube current modulation at the same noise setting. On frontal and lateral scout images, maximal body diameters were measured in the transverse and anteroposterior planes at two levels: just below the mandible (upper neck) and at the lung apex (lower neck). Neck diameters were correlated with image quality on a subjective 4-point scale and with radiation exposure (volume CT dose index). RESULTS. As continuous variables, both anteroposterior and transverse diameters in the lower neck were associated with image quality (p ≤ 0.0012). Diameters in the upper neck were not associated with image quality. When diameters in the lower neck were categorized into small, medium, and large, image quality ...
Polarization twisted nematic gratings: a study of the far field diffraction pattern

When left and right circularly polarized beams of light from a pump laser interfere in a nematic liquid crystal doped with azo dye, a polarization twisted nematic (PTN) grating is formed in the sample. The same is not true when linearly polarized light interferes, regardless of the polarization. For circularly polarized light, the easy axis is rotated toward the polarization direction of interfering beams. The irradiance is uniform so there is less contribution to refractive index variations. In the latter case the diffraction grating arises from variation in refractive index. Gratings written with Disperse Orange 3 (DO3) as the dopant disappear after removal of the pump beams, whereas grating written with Methyl Red (MR) as the dopant tend to be semi-permanent.
Phenotype and genotype diversity in the circumsporozoite proteins of Plasmodium vivax in Thailand

Two phenotypes of the circumsporozoite (CS) protein of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax occur in Thailand, each of which has a characteristic nonamer repeat: GDRA(AD)GQPA for VK210-type and ANGAG-NQPG for VK247-type. We have sequenced the repetitive domains and flanking regions from 17 specimens collected from a small area, some of which had given ambiguous results in allele-specific hybridization or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Base substitutions occurred in non-random, limited patterns that suggest the dissemination of mutations by both unequal crossing-over and gene conversion; most substitutions were silent and phenotypic variation was relatively minor. Sequence variation and number of repeat units were much more variable in VK210-type clones than in those of VK247-type. Each VK210-type isolate with a poor ELISA response contained at least one clone with one of five residue substitutions not found in normally responsive isolates. The absence of obvious hybrid sequences between the two alleles suggests that most successful recombination may have been between sister chromatids, and the limited phenotypic variation suggests that CS antibody does not exert selective pressure on evolution.
A pharmacogenetic basis for the safe and effective use of azathioprine and other thiopurine drugs in dermatologic patients

The safe and effective use of cytotoxic drugs for debilitating and sometimes life-threatening dermatoses is of great interest. The thiopurine antimetabolite group of drugs that includes azathioprine, as well as 6-mercaptopurine and 6-thioguanine, have been widely used as immunosuppressant and steroid-sparing agents in a variety of cutaneous diseases. Numerous recent review articles have highlighted the potential for serious immunosuppression with these agents. l-6 However, there is a significant lack of information in the dermatologic literature concerning the important pharmacogenetic variations in thiopurine metabolism responsible for some cases of myelosuppression. During the past 15 years the genetic basis of variation in the activity of a key enzyme in thiopurine metabolism, thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT), and its role in myelosuppression have been evaluated.7-10 Mounting evidence suggests that measurement of TPMT activity provides a rational basis for identifying enzyme-deficient patients at risk for profound myelosuppression, partially enzyme-deficient patients potentially at risk for myelosuppression, and perhaps even those with high enzyme activities who may be classified as therapeutic failures because of inadequate standard, empiric dosing with azathioprine and other thiopurine drugs. TPMT activity can be determined in peripheral red blood cell lysates, and this activity correlates with enzyme activity in the major drug metabolizing organ, the liver. 11’ l2 The clinical importance and utility of this
Colon Interposition for Benign Esophageal Disease: Experience with 23 Patients

Abstract Twenty-four colon interpositions were performed in a group of 23 patients comprising both adults and children between 1965 and early 1982. The indications for operation were caustic injury in 13 patients, peptic stricture in 6, congenital atresia or stenosis in 2, and gunshot or foreign body injury in 2. Long colon segments, consisting of isoperistaltic left colon in seven instances, antiperistaltic left colon in four, and right colon in five, were utilized for 16 procedures in 15 patients. Short segments of left colon were used in 8 patients, isoperistaltic in 6 and antiperistaltic in 2. There were no operative deaths. Ischemic complications necessitated removal of the transplant and replacement with another segment in 1 patient and revision or drainage procedures in 2 others. Strictures of the esophagocolic anastomosis occurred in 6 patients. Five of these strictures occurred among the 13 patients with caustic injury and appeared to be due to unrecognized caustic damage in the esophageal segment used for the anastomosis. Three patients died of unrelated causes eight months to 4½ years after operation, and 3 others were lost to follow-up. Seventeen patients were available for current follow-up 1 to 16 years after operation, including 7 who were followed more than 7 years. When the swallowing ability of these 17 patients was assessed using rigorous criteria, 9 were found to have an excellent to good result; 5, a good to fair result; and 3, a poor result. No patient showed late deterioration of function. We conclude that interposed colon is the ideal esophageal substitute for the patient with benign disease.
The 1996 IOC contaminant baseline survey in the Atlantic Ocean from 33°S to 10°N: introduction, sampling protocols, and hydrographic data

Abstract The third in a series of cruises designed to establish the present-day concentrations of trace elements and synthetic organic compounds in major water masses of the ocean, the 1996 Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Contaminant Baseline Survey occupied six vertical profile stations in the subtropical and tropical Atlantic. Underway surface samples also were acquired in the transects between these stations. This paper uses the temperature, salinity, oxygen, nutrient, and chlorophyll results from the cruise to set the hydrographic background for the other papers in this special volume. Major features sampled during the surface transect include the Brazil Current, the South Equatorial Current, and the offshore Amazon Plume. Utilizing the above parameters to identify water masses, we observed Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW) that ranged from a relatively undiluted form at 33°S (Station 10) to a highly attenuated form at 8°N (Station 6). Similarly, North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) was obtained in various mixing stages along its flow path, and samples of NADW and AABW exchanging through the Romanche Fracture Zone to the eastern Atlantic basins were also taken. In addition to these deep water masses, representative samples of Antarctic Intermediate Water and Circumpolar Deep Water were acquired. Besides standard hydrography, these data also were used to verify the sampling integrity of the trace metal-clean, Go Flo bottles deployed on a Kevlar hydrographic cable.
Runtime verification of nonlinear analog circuits using incremental time-augmented RRT algorithm

Because of complexity of analog circuits, their verification presents many challenges. We propose a runtime verification algorithm to verify design properties of nonlinear analog circuits. Our algorithm is based on performing exploratory simulations in the state-time space using the Time-augmented Rapidly Exploring Random Tree (TRRT) algorithm. The proposed runtime verification methodology consists of i) incremental construction of the TRRT to explore the state-time space and ii) use of an incremental online monitoring algorithm to check whether or not the incremented TRRT satisfies or violates specification properties at each iteration. In comparison to the Monte Carlo simulations, for providing the same state-space coverage, we utilize a logarithmic order of memory and time.
Actin in the nervous system

Abstract Since synaptic plasticity is an important property of the brain, it is timely to try to understand the possible mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. The role of the cytoplasm for neuronal functions has until now been largely overlooked, the main emphases being on the plasma membrane for fast electrical events and on cytoplasmic organelles for the slower metabolic processes. However, recent studies on the cytoplasm of non-muscle cells have stressed the importance of contractile proteins, like actin, on maintaining the cell shape and a number of vital cellular functions which may be related to the phase transitions in the cytoplasm. The necessary versatility is conferred on the actin networks by actin-associated proteins and by the free cytosolic calcium. In the nervous system, in addition to actin and myosin, a number of actin regulatory proteins was recently isolated, and they were shown to have properties similar to those of other non-muscle cells. Consequently, actin networks in neurons like those in non-muscle cells may be capable of contraction and phase transitions. The phase transitions have a rapid onset, and they may be quickly terminated or they may last over extended periods of time. In this way actin networks may gain control over the state of the cytoplasm and hence over the function of the neuron. Actin may be therefore uniquely suited to regulate various plastic reactions. The cytoplasm of growth cones and dendritic spines contains solely actin networks and is devoid of microtubules and neurofilaments. Since both these structures contain myosin and since growth cones are endowed with a considerable motility, dendritic spines also may have a likewise property. The necessary regulation of the levels of free cytosolic calcium may be provided by the spine apparatus in addition to calcium pumps in the plasma membrane and calcium regulatory proteins in the spine cytoplasm. Various types of stimulation which change the level of free cytosolic calcium may induce contraction of the spine actin network which may be responsible for the morphometric changes observed following different experimental interventions and pathological conditions. Although most of the conclusions in this review are rather speculative they may provide directions for future research in the spine and synaptic plasticity.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Symptoms of extreme, debilitating fatigue are often termed chronic fatigue syndrome in the United States and myalgic encephalitis in the United Kingdom. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) affects 2% of adults. A combination of both emotional and physical factors likely contributes to the pathogenesis of CFS. Graded exercise and cognitive-behavioral therapy effectively reduce fatigue symptoms. Antidepressants help reduce non-fatigue, somatic complaints.
Confirmation of an epilepsy modifier locus on mouse chromosome 11 and candidate gene analysis by RNA‐Seq

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting approximately 1% of the worldwide population. Mutations in voltage-gated sodium channels have been identified in several monogenic epilepsy syndromes. Over 800 mutations have been identified in the voltage-gated sodium channel genes SCN1A and SCN2A in human epilepsies, including genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+) and Dravet syndrome. In GEFS+ families, affected members with the same mutation often display variability in clinical severity of the disease. This suggests that additional genes modify the effect of the primary mutation, resulting in the variable clinical presentation. The Scn2aQ54 transgenic mouse model has an epilepsy phenotype that varies depending on the genetic strain background. Scn2aQ54 mice congenic on the C57BL/6J strain exhibit delayed seizure onset and improved survival compared to (C57BL/6J × SJL/J)F1.Q54 mice. Two modifier loci of Scn2aQ54 seizure susceptibility were mapped and designated Moe1 (modifier of epilepsy) on chromosome (chr) 11 and Moe2 on chr 19. To confirm Moe1 and refine its position, we generated interval-specific congenic lines carrying C57BL/6J-derived chr 11 alleles on the SJL/J strain and refined the map position to 89–104 Mb. We then used RNA-Seq for candidate analysis in the modifier region. C57BL/6J and SJL/J male and female brain RNAs were sequenced, revealing numerous significant transcriptome differences and coding single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Additional consideration of gene function and expression suggested several strong candidate modifier genes, including two voltage-gated calcium channel subunits, Cacna1g and Cacnb1, and the proline and acidic amino acid-rich basic leucine zipper transcription factor, Hlf.
Diabetic foot infections: diagnosis and management.

Abstract Background: With the increasing number of diabetic patients, it is likely that the number of diabetic foot infections will increase in upcoming years. Better strategies are required to optimize the outcomes of these infections. Methods: The current literature was reviewed to define best practices in the management of diabetic foot infections. Results: Management requires differentiation of colonization from infection. Classification of the severity of an infection is commonly important to interpret the effectiveness of care. Although many kinds of bacteria are associated with these infections, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has emerged as a major pathogen. Management of these severe infections usually necessitates hospitalization with rigorous medical management, prudent debridement of wounds, and appropriate antibiotic therapy targeting the responsible pathogens. Conclusions: Effective multidisciplinary management of the diabetic foot can reduce the rate of severe infections and the...
Health services use in eating disorders

Background This study examined healthcare services used by adults diagnosed with an eating disorder (ED) in a large health maintenance organization in the Pacific Northwest.
Analysis of thermal response of a food self-heating system

This paper presents a distributed model of heat transfer in a self-heating unit for group meals and its numerical simulation. A magnesium alloy and water exothermic reaction provides the necessary energy. The resulting governing equations of chemical reaction and heat conduction that depicts the heater performance were solved to develop an approximate analytical solution, to which experimental data found from literature were compared and curve fitted. Then, a model of a complete food-heating unit for group meals, which include a stack of four sets of food tray, heating tray, and heater sandwiched between them, as well as the cardboard container, was developed. The governing equations for heat conduction in the complete model were solved. The response in thermal performance of the heating system to the parameters that influence heating profiles of the heater such as decay constant and heat generation capacity were studied. The results show that the system thermal performance is most significantly affected by heat generation and a proper combination of heaters with different heat generation capacity can improve temperature uniformity between food trays. The results are useful for designing and optimizing self-heating multi-food tray units.
Determining a Surrogate Contact Pair in a Hertzian Contact Problem

Laboratory testing of contact phenomena can be prohibitively expensive if the interacting bodies are geometrically complicated. This work demonstrates means to mitigate such problems by exploiting the established observation that two geometrically dissimilar contact pairs may exhibit the same contact mechanics. Specific formulas are derived that allow a complicated Hertzian contact pair to be replaced with an inexpensively manufactured and more easily fixtured surrogate pair, consisting of a plane and a spheroid, which has the same (to second-order accuracy) contact area and pressure distribution as the original complicated geometry. This observation is elucidated by using direct tensor notation to review a key assertion in Hertzian theory; namely, geometrically complicated contacting surfaces can be described to second-order accuracy as contacting ellipsoids. The surrogate spheroid geometry is found via spectral decomposition of the original pair's combined Hessian tensor. Some numerical examples using free-form surfaces illustrate the theory, and a laboratory test validates the theory under a common scenario of normally compressed convex surfaces. This theory for a Hertzian contact substitution may be useful in simplifying the contact, wear, or impact testing of complicated components or of their constituent materials.
Computer-generated holograms fabricated on photopolymer for optical interconnect applications

Computer generated holograms (CGH) and holographic optical elements (HOE) were fabricated onto thick photopolymer(Du Pont HRF films) to demonstrate interconnects architectures based on the hypercube and perfect shuffle designs. A 16element CGH Fresnel lens array was used to fabricate the multifacet holograms which are recorded as phase modulation because of the exposuredependent refractive index change of the photopolymer. The recording method can be applied to other holographic elements to be used for spacevariant optical interconnect configurations. I NTRODUCTI ON The need to overcome the interconnect bottleneck in massive parallel computing architectures has been the subject of much discussion. Free space optical interconnects based on CGH''s and HOE''s can potentially provide a practical solution to this problem[13]. They provide the possibility of implementing an arbitrary mapping using a single optical element. such a space variant interconnects topology can result in high degree of flexibility and interconnects density. One such an approach involves a 2D input array of processing elements(PE''s) each drives a semiconductor laser its beam is directed onto a HOE that images it into one or more photodetector located on an output array of PE''s. [4Similarly the system can be coherent[5] when the input array is spatial light modulator illuminated by a laser. This paper deals with the design and fabrication of transmission HOE''s for free space optical interconnects in two specific examples the hypercube and the perfect shuffle architectures.
The determination of metoclopramide in plasma by reversed-phase ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatography

Methodology based on reversed-phase ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatography is described for the determination of metoclopramide in plasma. The chromatography was optimized in terms of the peak shape for the drug and its resolution from endogenous plasma components by investigating the effects of quaternary ammonium (competing) ions and alkylsulphate (pairing) ions in an acidic mobile phase containing acetonitrile (20%) and 20 mM acetic acid. Optimum chromatographic conditions were obtained with an ODS-Hypersil column and a mobile phase containing 20% acetonitrile, 20 mM acetic acid, 0.6 mM sodium octylsulphate and 0.5 mM tetrabutylammonium chloride. A simplified method of sample preparation is described in which only 1 ml of plasma is required. The limit of detection (at 310 nm) was 7 ng/ml and no interference from endogenous plasma components or from any drugs commonly used in the treatment of cancer was observed. Consequently the methodology should be applicable to pharmacokinetic studies on metoclopramide, when used clinically to control the gastro-intestinal side-effects of chemotherapy.
Specificity and substitution in the social networks of the elderly

A set of hypotheses is developed with regard to the way that lifecycle, cultural, and structural factors serve to delimit and specify the psychological desires satisfied through interaction with th...
Resin production of Grindelia accessions under cultivation

Abstract In the early 1980's, Grindelia camporum (Asteraceae) was proposed as a potential resin crop for arid lands. A field experiment was conducted in Arizona to evaluate eight Grindelia accessions that included two accessions of G. camporum (native to California's Central Valley, and known to differ in earliness of flowering), Grindelia stricta var. platyphylla and G. stricta var. stricta (both native to saline estuaries in northern California), and four accessions of Grindelia chiloensis from the coastal region of southern Argentina. Two plots were established in September 1994, with a total of 2176 plants. Crude resin (CR) content was highest for all four accessions of G. chiloensis, with the tetraploid accessions having the highest CR contents. G. camporum and G. stricta var. platyphylla were intermediate in CR content. CR content in G. stricta var. stricta was 3.3%. In general, CR contents were lower than previously found for these species. A possible explanation for this is a reduction in resin production due to high water and nutrient availability. Biomass production was significantly different among accessions. The highest biomass production for the first harvest was found for G. stricta var. platyphylla (517 g/plant). The two tetraploid accessions of G. chiloensis (accessions 333 and 336) yielded around 200 g/plant. Biomass production of the tetraploid accessions of G. chiloensis was significantly higher than that of the diploid accessions of the same species. This yield was about one-half of that for G. camporum, Grindelia stricta var. stricta biomass production was the lowest of the eight accessions (119 g/plant). At second harvest (November 1995), individual plant biomass was equal to or smaller than the first harvest for most accessions except for G. chiloensis 297 and 336. When biomass production and resin content were combined for both harvests, G. chiloensis tetraploid accessions emerged as the highest resin yielding genotypes.
Critical lengths by numerical integration of the associated Riccati equation to singularity

Bounds are obtained for the critical length (escape time) associated with a solution of a matrix Riccati equation. The bounds are computationally practical in the sense that the quantities appearing can be computed in terms of a known value of the solution at any point. It is suggested that these bounds will frequently allow practical estimation of the accuracy in determining a critical length by integrating the Riccati equation to ''blowup''. Practical aspects of such an application are discussed, and two examples are given.
Berlin Calling: American Broadcasters in Service to the Third Reich

Preface The Beginnings of the USA Zone and Its Pioneer American Broadcasters Jane Anderson, Alias the Georgia Peach Max Otto Koischwitz, Alias Mr. O.K. Robert H. Best, Alias Mr. Guess Who Douglas Chandler, Alias Paul Revere Donald Day, Goebbels' Final Recruit Epilogue Selected Bibliography Index
Cognitive Aspects of Step‐ Terms in American Kinship

In this article we extend the study of judged similarity among kinship terms from consanguineal to stepterms. Based on a sample of college students, we present a Euclidean representation of American kinship terms that shows that the distinction between consanguineal terms and step- terms is crucial. This representation matches predictions from the componential analysis paradigm and is shared by respondents of both genders with different ethnicities and first languages spoken. [American kinship, stepfamilies, correspondence analysis, consanguinity]
Uniform electrical charging of monodisperse aerosols

Abstract A technique has been developed for the induction charging of droplets produced by a vibrating orifice aerosol generator. Highly uniform charges of either sign with magnitudes up to the Rayleigh limit may be placed on the droplets. After droplet drying, the charges are left on the residual particles. The performance of an induction charging device has been evaluated and the parameters controlling the charge have been investigated. The technique is found to be a useful method of charging aerosol particles. As a special case, the technique may be used to neutralize the aerosol without the use of a radioactive source with its associated disadvantages.
Successful kidney transplantation from a donation after cardiac death donor with acute renal failure and bowel infarction using extracorporeal support.

Summary As a result of the ever widening disparity between organ supply and demand, a resurgence of interest has occurred in kidney recovery from donation after cardiac death (DCD) donors. New techniques of in situ extracorporeal support offer the potential to reduce warm ischemic injury and optimize donor management prior to organ recovery. In addition, preliminary outcomes using kidneys from selected deceased donors with rising serum creatinine levels have been promising. However, contraindications to successful organ donation and transplantation may include the presence of abdominal compartment syndrome, generalized bowel infarction, refractory shock with profound metabolic and lactic acidosis, and acute anuric renal failure, particularly in the setting of DCD. We report herein the successful recovery and transplantation of kidneys from an unstable donor with the above constellation of conditions in the setting of extracorporeal support after declaration of death by asystole.
Opsonic properties of human serum alpha-2 hs glycoprotein.

Human serum α2HS glycoprotein (α2HS) has been isolated to a purity of more than 95%. At a concentration of 0.1%= α2HS significantly enhances the phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and of Staphylococcus aureus by human neutrophils in vitro. At the same concentration, α2HS causes an increase in the hydrophobicity of these microorganisms, as measured by the sessile saline drop contact angle method. The level of α2HS is much decreased in the sera of trauma patients. Alpha-2 HS may be the human homologue of the recently described rat α2 opsonic protein (1).
Using Cases with Contrary Facts to Illustrate and Facilitate Ethical Analysis

There has been increasing interest in developing practical, non-theoretical tools for analyzing ethical problems in public health, biomedicine, and other scientific disciplines so that professionals can make and justify ethical decisions in their own research or practice. Tools for ethical decisionmaking, together with case studies on ethics, are often used in graduate education programs and in continuing professional education. Students can benefit from opportunities to further develop their analytical skills, to recognize ethical issues, and to develop their moral sensitivity. One practical approach for illustrating and facilitating ethical analysis uses cases with contrary facts and circumstances, an approach which complements rather than replaces theoretical approaches to moral reasoning. Cases with contrary facts and circumstances are presented in two or more alternative ways so that the facts, circumstances, or framing of one version runs counter to that of the other version (s). Cases with contrary facts, together with practical steps for identifying and analyzing ethical issues, are likely to be useful tools for illustrating and facilitating ethics analysis and stimulating the moral imagination.
BOSTON ROUTE 128 REVISITED

The paper revisits the success case of Boston Route 128 in commercializing technology. The study applies the concept of industrial clusters to explain the development of technologically sophisticated region of Boston Route 128. Boston Route 128 has transformed its structure from the minicomputer and microprocessor-based technology industry in the 1980s to biotechnology industry in the late 1990s and 2000s. It is argued that the successful commercialization process of Boston Route 128 is rooted in innovation, entrepreneurial management and the policy towards technology commercialization. To consider the argument, the paper proposes the cluster model to explain the strengths of Boston Route 128 in biotech clusters. It represents a model of the universities working with industries to form a cluster of high technology based firms. The venture capital accelerates the process of technology commercialization, giving rise to a new Boston model of innovation management. Policy makers may use the Boston model as a benchmark to evaluate their performance in supporting Hi-Tech industries.
Effects of calcitriol administration on calcium metabolism in healthy men

Effects of calcitriol administration on calcium metabolism in healthy men. To evaluate the relationship between daily and fasting urinary calcium excretion and serum 1,25-(OH) 2 -D concentrations, we studied six healthy men during control and during chronic oral calcitriol administration (0.6, 1.2, or 1.8 nmoles every 6 hours for 6 to 12 days) while they ate normal and low calcium diets (calcium content, 19.2 or 4.2 mmoles/day). Daily urinary calcium excretion was directly related to serum 1,25-(OH) 2 -D concentrations but increased more (P 2 -D exceeded 140 pmoles/liter, fasting urinary calcium/creatinine exceeded 0.34 mmole/mmole (the upper limit of normal) on either diet. When serum 1,25-(OH) 2 -D concentrations are elevated, a high fasting urinary calcium/creatinine or high daily urinary calcium excretion, even on a low calcium diet, is insufficient criteria for the documentation of a renal calcium leak. Effets de l'administration de calcitriol sur le metabolisme du calcium chez hommes en bonne sante. Afin d'evaluer la relation entre l'excretion urinaire quotidienne de calcium, l'excretion de calcium a jeun et la concentration serique de 1,25-(OH) 2 -D, nous avons etudie six hommes bien portants au cours de periodes controles et au cours de l'administration de calcitriol chronique par voie orale (0,6, 1,2, ou 1,8 nmoles chaque 6 heures pendant 6 a 12 jours) au cours de l'ingestion d'une alimentation normale ou pauvre en calcium (19,2 ou 4,2 mmoles de calcium par jour). L'excretion urinaire de calcium quotidienne est directement liee a la concentration serique de 1,25-(OH) 2 -D mais elle augmente plus (P 2 -D depasse 140 pmole par litre, le rapport calcium/creatinine dans l'urine a jeun est superieur a 0,34 (limite superieure de la normale) quelle que soit l'alimentation. Quand les concentrations seriques de 1,25-(OH) 2 -D sont elevees, un rapport calcium/creatinine eleve dans l'urine ou une excretion urinaire de 24 heures elevee sont insuffisants, meme au cours d'une alimentation pauvre en calcium, pour etablir l'existence d'une fuite renale de calcium.