cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Knowledge-based engineering approach for problem specification

Detailing the problem and writing the problem specification are vital to the successful implementation of any potential automated inspection system. In practice, arriving at a well defined problem specification is extremely difficult and many well designed systems have failed in implementation due to an inadequate problem specification. This paper presents a knowledge-based technique for developing a problem specification for dimensional measurement applications of machine vision. The motivation for developing a new systematic and computerized approach to problem specification is briefly covered. The peculiarity of this particular application and how it influences the knowledge-based system are discussed. This paper also details the methodology used for knowledge acquisition and refinement. Finally, the implementation of this new approach is discussed. A comprehensive knowledge-based tool was designed to clearly and precisely define production problems and to aid in accurate specifications for the development of machine vision systems. This tool uses an interactive computer program that takes potential users, with various backgrounds and interests, systematically through a step-by-step interrogation of the particular application. It then outputs a complete problem specification that will aid in the development of a specialized system. This tool consists of modules of questions which are intelligently selected appropriate to the different job descriptions and areas of expertise of the respondents. This method of problem specification has proven to be useful and effective for both the machine vision novice and expert. Examples of this method are given for machine vision applications and implementations.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Microbial oxidation of hydrocarbons measured by oxygraphy.

The Clark oxygen electrode was used to measure the microbial oxidation of hydrocarbons using preparations of resting cell suspensions. A strain of Corynebacterium sp. (7E1C) which utilized n-octane as sole carbon and energy source was examined for its ability to oxidize a variety of hydrocarbon substrates. The oxidation by resting cells exhibited an optimal temperature of 30° and an optimal pH range of 7.0–7.6. 1-Octanol, octanal, and octanoic acid were oxidized at rates comparable to n-octane. With the exception of n-decane, n-alkanes from pentane through heptadecane were attacked with a progressive increase in specific activity up the homologous series to n-octane, followed by a decrease as the hydrocarbon chain became progressively longer. n-Alkenes and halogenated n-alkanes substituted in the one position were oxidized at appreciably lower rates than the corresponding n-alkanes. Iso-Alkanes, cyclo-alkanes and aromatic hydrocarbons were relatively unsusceptible to oxidative attack.
Genome-Wide Linkage Analysis to Identify Chromosomal Regions Affecting Phenotypic Traits in the Chicken. IV. Metabolic Traits

ABSTRACT The current study is a comprehensive genome analysis to detect QTL affecting metabolic traits in chickens. Two unique F2 crosses generated from a commercial broiler male line and 2 genetically distinct inbred lines (Leghorn and Fayoumi) were used in the present study. The plasma glucagon, insulin, lactate, glucose, tri-iodothyronine, thyroxine, insulin-like growth factor I, and insulin-like growth factor II concentrations at 8 wk were measured in the 2 F2 crosses. Birds were genotyped for 269 microsatellite markers across the entire genome. The program QTL Express was used for QTL detection. Significance levels were obtained using the permutation test. For the 10 traits, a total of 6 and 9 significant QTL were detected at a 1% chromosome-wise significance level, of which 1 and 6 were significant at the 5% genome-wise level for the broiler-Leghorn cross and broiler-Fayoumi cross, respectively. Most QTL for metabolic traits in the present study were detected in Gga 2, 6, 8, 9, 13, and Z for the broiler-Leghorn cross and Gga 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 13, 17, and E47 for the broiler-Fayoumi cross. Phenotypic variation for each trait explained by all QTL across genome ranged from 2.73 to 14.08% in the broiler-Leghorn cross and from 6.93 to 21.15% in the broiler-Fayoumi cross. Several positional candidate genes within the QTL region for metabolic traits at the 1% chromosome-wise significance level are biologically associated with the regulation of metabolic pathways of insulin, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine.
A Preliminary Study on the Angular Distribution of Scattered Ultrasound from Bovine Liver and Myocardium

Measurements were performed on freshly-excised bovine liver and myocardium to determine the ultrasonic scattering nature of the tissues under a variety of experimental conditions. Results for the angular distribution of the differential scattering cross section per unit volume of tissue are reported for scattering angles spanning 170 to 44 degrees for interrogating frequencies of 1.0, 2.25, 3.5 and 5.0 MHz. Fresh and aged tissues, some with abnormally high connective tissue content were analyzed. The results are compared to previously-published works.
No Encyclopedia Left Unopened: Researching No Child Left Behind (NCLB) in the Reference Shelves

This article surveys reference works published in the general field of education since the enactment of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) on January 8, 2002. The study examines the introduction of each work to determine its audience and measure this against its treatment of NCLB. Topical encyclopedias can assist patrons in preliminary research on this major piece of legislation. After narrowing down the research topic, patrons can be referred to an electronic database for further, more detailed information on NCLB.
Listening to Depression and Suicide Risk in Medical Students: the Healer Education Assessment and Referral (HEAR) Program

A growing body of literature documents high rates of burnout, depression, and suicidal ideation among physicians and medical students. Barriers to seeking mental health treatment in this group include concerns about time, stigma, confidentiality, and potential career impact. The authors describe a 4-year trial of the Healer Education Assessment and Referral (HEAR) program, designed to increase mental health services utilization (MHSU) and decrease suicide risk (SR) as assessed by an Interactive Screening Program (ISP)at one US medical school. Over a 4-year period, medical students were engaged in face-to-face, campus-wide, educational group programs and were invited to complete an individual, online, and anonymous survey. This survey contained the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scale to assess depression and items to identify suicidal thoughts and behaviors, substance use, distressing emotional states, and the use of mental health treatment. Students who engaged in this ISP by corresponding electronically with a counselor after completing the survey were assessed and when indicated, referred to further treatment. The HEAR program was delivered to 1,008 medical students. Thirty-four percent (343/1,008) completed the online screening portion. Almost 8 % of respondents met the criteria for high/significant SR upon analysis of the completed screens. Ten out of 13 of the students with SR who dialogued with a counselor were not already receiving mental health treatment, indicating that this anonymous ISP identified a high proportion of an untreated, at risk, and potentially suicidal population. MHSU among medical students who completed the survey was 11.5 % in year 1 and 15.0 % by year 4. SR among medical students was 8.8 % in year 1 and 6.2 % in year 4 as assessed by the ISP. This novel interventional program identified at risk, potentially suicidal medical students at one institution. Based on this single-site experience, we suggest that future multisite studies incorporate a comparison group, acquire baseline (prematriculation) data regarding MHSU and SR, and use an individualized yet anonymous identification system to measure changes in individual participants’ mental health status over time.
Optimizing Wideband Cyclostationary Spectrum Sensing Under Receiver Impairments

In the context of Cognitive Radios (CRs), cyclostationary detection of primary users (PUs) is regarded as a common method for spectrum sensing. Cyclostationary detectors rely on the knowledge of the signal's symbol rate, carrier frequency, and modulation class in order to detect the present cyclic features. Cyclic frequency and sampling clock offsets are the two receiver impairments considered in this work. Cyclic frequency offsets, which occur due to oscillator frequency offsets, Doppler shifts, or imperfect knowledge of the cyclic frequencies, result in computing the test statistic at an offset from the true cyclic frequency. In this paper, we analyze the effect of cyclic frequency offsets on conventional cyclostationary detection, and propose a new multi-frame test statistic that reduces the degradation due to cyclic frequency offsets. Due to the multi-frame processing of the proposed statistic, non-coherent integration might occur across frames. Through an optimization framework developed in this work that can be performed offline, we determine the best frame length that maximizes the average detection performance of the proposed cyclostationary detection method given the statistical distributions of the receiver impairments. As a result of the optimization, the proposed detectors is shown to achieve the performance gains over conventional detectors given the constrained sensing time. We derive the proposed detector's theoretical average detection performance, and compare it to the performance of the conventional cyclostationary detector. Our analysis shows that gains in average detection performance using the proposed method can be achieved when the effect of sampling clock offset is less severe than that of the cyclic frequency offset. The analysis given in this paper can be used as a design guideline for practical implementation of cyclostationary spectrum sensors.
A new paradigm for trading off yield, area and performance to enhance performance per wafer

In this paper we outline a novel way to 1) predict the revenue associated with a wafer, 2) maximize the projected revenue through unconventional yield enhancement techniques, and 3) produce dice from the same mask that may have different performances and selling prices. Unlike speed binning, such heterogeneity is intentional by design. To achieve these goals we overturn the traditional concepts of redundancy, and present a novel design flow for yield enhancement called “Reduced Redundancy Insertion”, where spares can potentially have less area and performance than their fathers. We develop a model for the revenue associated with the new design methodology that integrates system configuration and leverages yield, area and performance. The primary metric used in this model is termed “Expected Performance per Area”, which is a measure that can be reliably estimated for different system architectures, and can be maximized by using algorithms proposed in this paper. We present theoretical models and case studies that characterize our designs, and experimental results that validate our prediction. We show that using Reduced Redundancy can improve wafer revenue by 10–30%.
Immunogenetic considerations in islet transplantation: The role of Ia antigens in graft rejection

As demonstrated by Faustman et al., islets that are pretreated with Ia antibodies and complement show markedly prolonged survival as compared with islets, with the same immunogenetic disparity, without antibody pretreatment. In order to test whether it is simply the absence of an allo-Ia disparity that accounts for this finding, we have transplanted islets across class I disparities alone; in certain cases, such islets are rapidly rejected. Yet, even though there is no allo-Ia difference on such islets, pretreatment of the islets with anti-Ia monoclonal antibody also results in markedly prolonged survival. We suggest that the presence of Ia antigens may serve as a differentiation marker for cells that can present class I antigens in an immunogenic manner; further, allo-Ia antigens can lead to a stronger anti-class I rejection response.
Adaptive atom-optics in atom interferometry

Abstract We suggest a general technique for creating virtual atom-optical elements which are adaptive. The shape and position of these elements is determined by the frequency distribution for optical fields which induce transitions in a high gradient potential. This adaptive method is demonstrated in an all-optical atom interferometer, by creating either a variable optical slit or a variable optical grating which is scanned across the atomic spatial patterns to measure the fringes. This method renders mechanical motion of the interferometer elements unnecessary.
A recirculating seawater aquarium system for inland laboratories

We have designed and installed a 7,500 l recirculating aquarium system for the purpose of maintaining marine gastropods in an inland laboratory. It is completely nonmetallic and can be adapted for any number of isolated living compartments. Vonvenient and efficient filtration is achieved by the use of disposable cartridge filters. The water temperature is regulated by a direct expansion cooling coil and a hot water heating coil without the intervention of secondary heat transfer fluids. Most of the water is stored in an underground reservoir which contributes to thermal stability, and the water temperature varies <±0.1°C per week. The pH and specific gravity remain at 8.0±0.1 and 1.023+0.002-0.001, respectively, for as long as 4 months. We have no evidence that any animal (Aplysia, Hermissenda, Tritonia) has died due to poor water quality. The system is constructed from readily available components, is moderate in cost, and has performed reliably for over 2 years.
CapProbe: a simple and accurate capacity estimation technique for wired and wireless environments

The problem of estimating the capacity of an Internet path is one of fundamental importance. Due to the multitude of potential applications, a large number of solutions have been proposed and evaluated. The proposed solutions so far have been successful in partially addressing the problem, but have suffered from being slow, obtrusive or inaccurate. In this work, we evaluate CapProbe, a low-cost and accurate end-to-end capacity estimation scheme that relies on packet dispersion techniques as well as end-to-end delays. The key observation that enabled the development of CapProbe is that both compression and expansion of packet pair dispersion are the result of queuing due to cross-traffic. By filtering out queuing effects from packet pair samples, CapProbe is able to estimate capacity accurately in most environments, with minimal processing and probing traffic overhead. In fact, the storage and processing requirements of CapProbe are orders of magnitude smaller than most of the previously proposed schemes. We tested CapProbe through simulation, Internet, Internet2 and wireless experiments. We found that CapProbe error percentage in capacity estimation was within 10% in almost all cases, and within 5% in most cases.
A fast pulse-dc integrator

Abstract This fast pulse-dc integrator accepts pulses from dc to less than 20 ns width, over an input dynamic range of 400:1 in amplitude (1 mV minimum) without range switching. The integral linearity (maximum absolute error as fraction of full scale) is 0.1 ppm at constant pulse height, 0.2% at constant pulse width. Any reading is accurate to within 2%. Temperature compensation and dc feedback ensure stability of operation. A fast voltage-to-current converter stable to 0.002% of full scale current provides the charge for capacitor storage.
Design, construction, and validation of a rotary multifunctional intravascular diagnostic catheter combining multispectral fluorescence lifetime imaging and intravascular ultrasound

We report the development and validation of an intravascular rotary catheter for bimodal interrogation of arterial pathologies. This is based on a point-spectroscopy scanning time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy technique enabling reconstruction of fluorescence lifetime images (FLIm) and providing information on arterial intima composition and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) providing information on arterial wall morphology. The catheter design allows for independent rotation of the ultrasonic and optical channels within an 8 Fr outer diameter catheter sheath and integrates a low volume flushing channel for blood removal in the optical pathways. In the current configuration, the two channels consist of (a) a standard 3 Fr IVUS catheter with single element transducer (40 MHz) and (b) a side-viewing fiber optic (400 μm core). Experiments conducted in tissue phantoms showed the ability of the catheter to operate in an intraluminal setting and to generate coregistered FLIm and IVUS in one pull-back scan. Current results demonstrate the feasibility of the catheter for simultaneous bimodal interrogation of arterial lumen and for generation of robust fluorescence lifetime data under IVUS guidance. These results facilitate further development of a FLIm-IVUS technique for intravascular diagnosis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases including vulnerable plaques.
Can you capitalize on the turn-of-the-year effect?

Previous research identifies evidence of a strong seasonal pattern in returns, whereby returns are systematically higher in January. The most widely advanced explanation for this turn-of-the-year (or January) effect relies on tax-based trading; however, researchers have proposed a variety of alternative explanations. The relevance of the January effect for investors has been questioned due to the inconsistency in the phenomenon. We find evidence indicating that a strategy that targets small, out-of-favour stocks allows investors to achieve superior performance in January. Furthermore, we find that market indicators can be used to improve the consistency of the strategy. Finally, we advance a theory to explain the observed superior performance of the proposed investment strategy.
Backwards and forwards dispersion of a scalar in turbulent wall flows

Abstract A direct numerical simulation of turbulent flow in an infinite channel is used in conjunction with the tracking of scalar markers to investigate turbulent dispersion. The study is focused on four regions of turbulent wall bounded flows, namely the viscous layer, the transition region, the logarithmic layer, and the outer region of the flow at the center of the channel. The velocities of scalar markers captured in each of these regions are correlated both forwards and backwards in time. It is found that backwards and forwards dispersion proceeds at different rates at different regions of the flow. A change in the rates of backwards and forwards dispersion is also seen with a change in Prandtl number. However, for Prandtl number six and higher, this change is negligible. The observed differences are due to the competing effects of convective and molecular dispersion at different distances from the wall, and for different Prandtl number fluids.
A Note on Multiple Comparisons Using Rank Sums

In a one-way layout design, the rank-sum procedures proposed by Steel [6] and Dunn [1] for the problem of comparing all pairs of treatments are compared and found to have equivalent asymptotic properties. The asymptotic relative (Pitman) efficiency of these nonparametric procedures relative to the classical solutions is shown to be the same as the efficiency of the corresponding two-sample rank-sum tests relative to the two-sample Student's t-test.
Clinical manifestations of influenza in HIV-infected individuals

Although influenza vaccination is recommended for individuals with HIV infection, there are no data indicating an increased incidence or severity of influenza in this population. We sought to describe the clinical manifestations and morbidity of influenza in HIV-infected patients. All cases of influenza occurring in HIV-infected individuals over 3 years at a large county hospital were reviewed. Forty-three cases of influenza were diagnosed. Most patients presented with typical signs and symptoms of influenza, including cough (90%), myalgias (64%), and fever (52%). Sore throat and headache occurred in less than half of patients. The mean CD4 cell count and HIV viral load in patients with influenza was 340 cells/mm 3 and 3.34 log copies/ml, respectively. No significant differences in CD4 counts or viral loads were noted in patients with pneumonia (n=7) compared with patients without pneumonia (n=36), P > 0.5. Six patients were hospitalized. One patient each had encephalitis and renal failure, although the relationship to influenza was not clear. No new or unusual clinical manifestations were observed. The rate of pulmonary complications was similar to other studies in HIV-negative patients; however, the hospitalization rate was higher than commonly seen in HIV-negative individuals.
The pediatric eye disease investigator group report may be too optimistic about efficacy of treatment.

To the Editor. The Quinn et al commentary1 comparing the efficacy of various patching protocols for the treatment of amblyopia confirms a previous compilation of multiple reports2 that found no relationship between duration or type of therapy used and visual outcome. Performance improvement on vision tests normally occurs in children with increasing age, literacy, and experience.3 Improved acuity also was demonstrated in clinical trials in which acuity of the patched eyes improved at the same rate as the unpatched eyes.4 The conclusions concerning the efficacy …
Structure–Activity Analysis of Dynorphin A Toxicity in Spinal Cord Neurons: Intrinsic Neurotoxicity of Dynorphin A and Its Carboxyl-Terminal, Nonopioid Metabolites

Dynorphin A [dynorphin A (1-17)] is an endogenous opioid peptide that is antinociceptive at physiological concentrations. Levels of dynorphin A increase markedly following spinal cord trauma and may contribute to secondary neurodegeneration. Both kappa opioid and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists can modulate the effects of dynorphin, suggesting that dynorphin is acting through kappa opioid and/or NMDA receptor types. Despite these findings, few studies have critically examined the mechanisms of dynorphin A neurotoxicity at the cellular level. To better understand how dynorphin affects cell viability, structure-activity studies were performed examining the effects of dynorphin A and dynorphin A-derived peptide fragments on the survival of mouse spinal cord neurons coexpressing kappa opioid and NMDA receptors in vitro. Time-lapse photography was used to repeatedly follow the same neurons before and during experimental treatments. Dynorphin A caused significant neuronal losses that were dependent on concentration (> or = 1 microM) and duration of exposure. Moreover, exposure to an equimolar concentration of dynorphin A fragments (100 microM) also caused a significant loss of neurons. The rank order of toxicity was dynorphin A (1-17) > dynorphin A (1-13) congruent with dynorphin A (2-13) congruent with dynorphin A (13-17) (least toxic) > dynorphin A (1-5) ([Leu(5)]-enkephalin) or dynorphin A (1-11). Dynorphin A (1-5) or dynorphin A (1-11) did not cause neuronal losses even following 96 h of continuous exposure, while dynorphin A (3-13), dynorphin A (6-17), and dynorphin A (13-17) were neurotoxic. The NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 (dizocilpine) (10 microM) significantly attenuated the neurotoxic effects of dynorphin A and/or dynorphin-derived fragments except dynorphin A (13-17), suggesting that the neurotoxic effects of dynorphin were largely mediated by NMDA receptors. Thus, toxicity resides in the carboxyl-terminal portion of dynorphin A and this minimally includes dynorphin A (3-13) and (13-17). Our findings suggest that dynorphin A and/or its metabolites may contribute significantly to neurodegeneration during spinal cord injury and that alterations in dynorphin A biosynthesis, metabolism, and/or degradation may be important in determining injury outcome.
Nevus Sebaceus Associated With Major Ophthalmologic Abnormalities

• Nevus sebaceus rarely occurs as part of a syndrome consisting of central nervous system and ophthalmologic abnormalities. We describe a case of nevus sebaceus associated with an epibulbar complex choristoma and colobomas of the optic disc and peripapillary choroid, and review the dermatologic, ophthalmologic, and neurologic literature on the nevus sebaceus syndrome. When associated with other developmental abnormalities, nevus sebaceus and epidermal nevus have erroneously been considered to be a single entity. In this article, we delineate and emphasize the ophthalmologic abnormalities associated with the nevus sebaceus syndrome. ( Arch Dermatol 1987;123:383-386)
Some issues related to fixed-rate pruned tree-structured vector quantizers

It is shown that the generalized BFOS algorithm is not optimal when it is used to design fixed-rate pruned tree-structured vector quantizers (PTSVQ). A simple modification is made in the algorithm which makes it optimal. However, experimental results show little difference between the rate-distortion curves generated with the original algorithm and the one proposed in the present paper. An asymptotic analysis is presented which shows how the two algorithms prune the TSVQ and explains why their results are so similar. The analysis also shows that in designing fixed-rate variable-depth TSVQs one can get as good a rate-distortion performance with a greedy TSVQ growing algorithm as with the optimal pruning of a large tree. >
Amphibian cell culture: Established fibroblastic line from embryos of the discoglossid frog, Bombina orientalis

A new amphibian cell line, Bor II, is described. It was initiated from Stage 20 embryos of the discoglossid frog,Bombina orientalis In early passages the cell line had an epithelioid morphology. Beginning at or around subcultivation 16, a more fibroblastic cell type emerged and rapidly became predominant. These later passage cells were able to proliferate in low (1.0%) serum, displayed frequent overlaps, and lacked postconfluent inhibition of cell division. The cell line was unable to survive at 37°C, but grew vigorously within a temperature range of 20° to 30°C. The presence of two distinctive marker chromosomes in an othewise diploid karyotype should make these cells useful for nuclear transplantation studies.
A grain boundary phase transition studied by molecular dynamics

We have conducted a thorough investigation of the high temperature behaviour of crystalline interfaces in 2-dimensional close-packed and 3-dimensional f.c.c. Σ = 7 bicrystals using the atomistic computer simulation technique of molecular dynamics. Gibbs free energies of the bicrystals were computed using the determinant technique and a computer calorimetry technique which we describe. The thermodynamic properties of the boundary were monitored over a wide range of temperatures, up to the bulk melting point. We observed a first order phase transition of the grain boundary in the 2D and 3D bicrystals at temperatures well below the bulk melting temperature. At the transition temperature the crystalline grain boundaries are replaced by highly disordered liquid-like layers.
Wind profile parameter estimation using MathCAD.

(...) This study evaluated the applicability of a commercial mathematics software package, MathCAD, to estimate the three parameters- friction velocity (U * ), zero-plane displacement height (d), and the roughness length, Zo-of the adiabatic log-law wind profile. The solutions were evaluated and compared to previous published solutions for several wind profiles using traditional methods. MathCAD was found to solve the wind profiles rapidly without convergence difficulty on the tested profiles. In all the comparisons , MathCAD produced almost exact duplications of previously published results (...)
Molecular mechanisms of tumor-bone interactions in osteolytic metastases

In patients with advanced disease, several cancer types frequently metastasize to the skeleton, where they cause bone destruction. Osteolytic metastases are incurable and cause pain, hypercalcemia, fracture, and nerve compression syndromes. It was proposed over a century ago that certain cancers, such as that of the breast, preferentially metastasize to the favorable microenvironment provided by bone. Bone matrix is a rich store of immobilized growth factors that are released during bone resorption. Histological analysis of osteolytic bone metastases indicates that the bone destruction is mediated by the osteoclast rather than directly by the tumor cells. These observations suggest a vicious cycle driving the formation of osteolytic metastases: tumor cells secrete factors stimulating osteoclasts through adjacent bone marrow stromal cells; osteoclastic resorption in turn releases growth factors from the bone matrix; finally, locally released growth factors activate the tumor cells. This vicious cycle model has now been confirmed at the molecular level. In particular, transforming growth factor beta (TGF3beta) is abundant in bone matrix and released as a consequence of osteoclastic bone resorption. Bone-derived TGFbeta plays an integral role in promoting the development and progression of osteolytic bone metastases by inducing tumor production of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), a known stimulator of osteoclastic bone resorption. In breast cancer cells TGFbeta appears to stimulate PTHrP secretion by a posttranscriptional mechanism through both Smad and p38 mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathways. Osteolytic metastases can be suppressed in vivo by inhibition of bone resorption, blockade of TGFbeta signaling in tumor cells, and by neutralization of PTHrP. Other factors released from bone matrix may also act on tumor cells in bone, which in turn may produce other factors that stimulate bone resorption, following the vicious cycle paradigm established for TGFbeta and PTHrP. An understanding at the molecular level of the mechanisms of osteolytic metastasis will result in more effective therapies for this devastating complication of cancer.
Angular distributions of very low energy recoil ions

Abstract We present the first measurements of the angular distribution of recoil ions near 90 ° with respect to the incident projectile direction. Beams of 22.5 and 33 MeV chlorine ions (incident charge states q = 4,5,8) have been used as “hammer” beams incident on Ne atoms. We do not confirm the long standing assumption that these recoil ions are ejected preferentially at angles very near 90 ° with respect to the primary beam direction, although they do have energies typically less than 5 eV. Recoil ions ejected around 90 ° have an energy distribution appreciably wider than those ejected at either larger or smaller angles.
Increased cellular cholesterol efflux in glycogen storage disease type Ia mice: A potential mechanism that protects against premature atherosclerosis

Glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD-Ia) patients manifest a pro-atherogenic lipid profile but are not at elevated risk for developing atherosclerosis. Serum phospholipid, which correlates positively with the scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI)-mediated cholesterol efflux, and apolipoprotein A-IV and E, acceptors for ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1)-mediated cholesterol transport, are increased in GSD-Ia mice. Importantly, sera from GSD-Ia mice are more efficient than sera from control littermates in promoting SR-BI- and ABCA1-mediated cholesterol effluxes. As the first step in reverse cholesterol transport, essential for cholesterol homeostasis, these observations provide one explanation why GSD-Ia patients are apparently protected against premature atherosclerosis.
Dietary boron as a physiological regulator of the normal inflammatory response: A review and current research progress†‡§

A substantial number of metabolic processes in humans and animals are beneficially affected by physiologic amounts of dietary boron. There is emerging evidence that boron influences immune function. Specifically, there is evidence that dietary boron helps control the normal inflammatory process and may do so by serving as a signal suppressor that down-regulates specific enzymatic activities typically elevated during inflammation at the inflammation site. Suppression, but not elimination, of these enzyme activities by boron is hypothesized to reduce the incidence and severity of inflammatory disease. This is a review of previous findings describing an apparent positive effect of boron on aspects of physiology related to the inflammatory process, including joint swelling, restricted movement, fever, antibody production, hemostasis, serine protease and lipoxygenase activities, and leukotriene metabolism. It also summarizes current research findings on the immunomodulatory effects of physiologic amounts of dietary boron such as reduced paw swelling and circulating neutrophil concentrations and increased circulating concentrations of natural killer cells and CD8a+/CD4− cells of rats with antigen-induced arthritis. Possible biochemical mechanisms for the effects of boron on the induced inflammatory response are discussed, with emphasis on possible roles of boron in the respiratory burst mechanism, and inhibition of leukocyte 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, cyclooxygenase, and serine proteases (elastase, chymase, cathepsin G, thrombin, and coagulation factors IXa, Xa, XIa) activities. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 12:221–233, 1999. Published 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Corticofugal regulation of excitatory and inhibitory frequency tuning curves of bat inferior collicular neurons

Corticofugal regulation of excitatory and inhibitory frequency tuning curves (FTCs) of neurons in the central nucleus of bat inferior colliculus (ICc) was studied by electrical stimulation of the primary auditory cortex (AC stimulation) under free field stimulation conditions using a two-tone inhibition paradigm. AC stimulation narrowed the excitatory FTCs and asymmetrically expanded the lateral inhibitory FTCs of corticofugally inhibited ICc neurons. The opposite results were observed for excitatory and inhibitory FTCs of corticofugally facilitated ICc neurons. These data support previous reports that corticofugal systems work together with widespread lateral inhibition to regulate subcortical frequency processing.
Comparison of antioxidant activities of tocol and its methyl derivatives.

In tests with purified menhaden oil at 37C and with squalene at 37C and 50C, unsubstituted tocol, 7,8-dimethyl tocol (γ-tocol), and 8-methyl tocol (σ-tocol) were superior antioxidants to 5,7-dimethyl tocol and 5,7,8-trimethyl tocol (α-tocol). In contrast to previous reports, there were no differences in the order of the activities of the tocopherols at different temperatures.
Elbow injuries in the throwing athlete: Diagnosis and arthroscopic treatment

Abstract The elbow is a frequent site of pathology in sports injuries, especially in the throwing athlete. This is because of thesignificant stresses that are produced at the elbow joint by the throwing activity. Many of these injuries occur insidiously over time from accumulated microtrauma caused by repetitive overuse and can be quite debilitating if not properly diagnosed. Recent advances in knowledge of elbow anatomy, function, and biomechanics have greatly increased our awareness of the diagnosis and treatment of sports-related elbow injuries. Elbow arthroscopy has been invaluable in the diagnosis and treatment of intra-articular pathology frequently observed in the elbow. In addition, treatment of elbow throwing injuries has been greatly facilitated by allowing an accelerated rehabilitation and return to competition over open procedures. Meticulous arthroscopic technique and knowledge of regional elbow anatomy is essential to avoid neurovascular complications and articular damage. When performed by an experienced arthroscopist, the procedure carries minimal morbidity and allows a rapid return to competition.
Effects of hippocampal lesions on the water consumption of hooded and albino rats

Simple ad lib 24-h water consumption was measured 16 days preoperatively and 60 days postoperatively in Long-Evans and Sprague-Dawley rats subjected to massive hippocampal, neocortical, or sham lesions. The only lesion effect occurred within the first 4 postoperative days, as hippocampal albinos drank more water than the control Ss. After adjusting for initial preoperative strain differences through covariance procedures, albino rats, irrespective of brain damage, consumed significantly more water than the hooded Ss for the first 16 days postoperatively. The results are contrasted with previous studies and discussed in terms of the role played by the hippocampus in mediating drinking behavior.
Cost-effectiveness of screening for deep vein thrombosis by ultrasound at admission to stroke rehabilitation.

Abstract Wilson RD, Murray PK. Cost-effectiveness of screening for deep vein thrombosis by ultrasound at admission to stroke rehabilitation. Objective This project was a cost-effectiveness analysis of the practice of routine Doppler ultrasound screening for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with ischemic stroke at the time of admission to rehabilitation. Design A decision-analysis model was created to compare 2 approaches for detecting DVT in a stroke population: (1) screening all patients with acute ischemic stroke at admission to stroke rehabilitation for DVT by Doppler ultrasound with subsequent treatment; or (2) clinical surveillance for signs of DVT and treatment after confirmation by Doppler ultrasound. The prevalence of DVT, risk of complication from DVT, and risk of complication from treatment were obtained from published reports. Costs are in 2004 dollars and the effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. We conducted these analyses from a societal perspective. Setting Inpatient stroke rehabilitation unit. Participants Not applicable. Intervention Screening all patients with acute ischemic stroke at admission to stroke rehabilitation for DVT by Doppler ultrasound with subsequent treatment. Main Outcome Measure Cost in 2004 dollars per QALY gained by screening all patients with acute ischemic stroke at admission to stroke rehabilitation for DVT by Doppler ultrasound with subsequent treatment. Results The expected utility of screening patients with ischemic stroke for DVT by Doppler ultrasound on admission to rehabilitation is 1.875 QALYs and that of not screening is 1.872 QALYs. The expected gain is .0026 QALYs (23h). Obtaining this increase in quality-adjusted life incurs additional cost of $168 per stroke patient and a marginal cost-effectiveness of $67,200 for each QALY gained. Conclusions This study estimates that the cost-effectiveness ratio is considerably higher than that reported in other rehabilitation conditions and higher than the commonly stated level for an intervention to be considered cost-effective. The difference from previous reports primarily relates to the shorter life expectancy following stroke, the prevalence of occult DVT at admission, rate of complications of anticoagulation, and the estimates of the screening’s test characteristics used in our study. Further study of these areas is likely to contribute to improving our understanding of the most appropriate care of these patients.
Neurobehavioral Effects of Anandamide and Cannabinoid Receptor Gene Expression in Mice

The objective of the present study was to determine the neurobehavioral effects of the putative endogenous cannabinoid ligand, anandamide, and its influence on cannabinoid (CB1) receptor gene expression. The effect of acute administration of anandamide to C57BL/6, DBA/2, and ICR mice were evaluated in motor function and emotionality tests. The C57BL/6 and ICR mouse strains were more sensitive than the DBA/2 strain to the depression of locomotor activity and stereotyped behavior caused by anandamide. Although anandamide produced catalepsy in all three strains, anandamide induced ataxia in the minus-maze test only in the C57BL/6 animals and only at the lowest dose used. In the plus-maze test system, anandamide produced a mild aversive response, and by the third day of treatment the mouse strains developed an intense aversion to the open arms of the plus-maze. Northern analysis data using the recently cloned mouse cannabinoid receptor cDNA as a probe indicated that there was abundant expression of CB1 gene in the whole brain of the ICR mouse than in the brains of the C57BL/6 and DBA/2 strains with or without pretreatment with anandamide. The anandamide induced neurobehavioral profile does not seem to correspond to the CB1 gene expression in the mouse strains. It is, therefore, unlikely that the CB1 receptor mediates all the cannabinomimetic effects of anandamide in the brain.
A universal interface for coupling mass spectrometry to thermogravimetry

Abstract Techniques for coupling mass spectrometry (MS) to thermogravimetry (TG) have been previously described. A total condensation method is best suited for identification of off-gases at various weight loss steps. For continuous monitoring of evolved components during the weight loss process, a glass-tee interface has been found effective in most applications. The present paper describes a glass tubing-tee interface used in conjunction with a sampler to provide great versatility. Both enrichment and recovery are improved without mass discrimination. The thermogravimetric analyzer can be operated under vacuum or with a gas flow. Examples will be given to illustrate the use of this technique for either qualitative or quantitative analysis of a variety of materials.
A structural mapping technique for geometric parametrization in the optimization of magnetic devices

The continuity and differentiability of object functions is a basic prerequisite for the application of gradient methods in optimization. However, for parameters defining the shape of an electromagnetic device, the finite element discretization in the field analysis introduces discontinuities into the object function which slow down the convergence rate. Additionally, depending on the geometric parametrizaiion employed, the optimization frequently yields shape contours that are impracticable for manufacturing purposes. This paper investigates the problems inherent in geometric parametrization and shows that the discontinuities in the object function are caused by changes in mesh topology as the geometric parameters vary; these changes inevitably follow from the use of free meshing algorithms. As a solution to these shortcomings a structural mapping technique is outlined that maps surface displacements onto the parameters of the finite element mesh and obtains the parameter dependent geometric variations without a change in mesh topology. This resulting geometric parametrization yields continuous object functions without artificial local minima and results in smooth surface contours of the optimized device. Using this new parametrization technique, design sensitivity analysis, is shown to be a reliable and essential part in the efficient application of gradient methods for shape optimization.
Trees, the park and moral order: The significance of Golden Gate Park's first plantings

Abstract According to Guy and Helen Giffen's 1949 book, The Story of Golden Gate Park, many of the first trees planted in the park ‘did not thrive.’ 1 The Giffens apparently considered this occurrence of little consequence and quickly moved on to other topics. This article is a deeper exploration into the significance of precisely that horticultural event. Just as a failed experiment can direct a scientist toward fuller understanding, this unsuccessful planting can help to broaden our knowledge about nineteenth-century American parks and park making by prompting us to learn both why the trees were planted and why they did not thrive. I will propose that Golden Gate Park's languishing trees derive from a search for urban moral order directed by an inexperienced superintendent using contemporary landscape theory upon a horticultural terra incognita. The combination produced Golden Gate Park's languishing trees. While this blend of conditions and events was unique to San Francisco, the implications may have ...
Exome resequencing identifies novel NPHP genes, implicating DNA damage response signaling in the pathogenesis of ciliopathies

Nephronophthisis-related ciliopathies (NPHP-RC) are recessive multisystem-disorders that affect kidney, retina, liver and cerebellum either by prenatal-onset dysplasia or by childhood-onset degeneration and fibrosis. Identification of 10 disease-causing genes (NPHP1-NPHP10) revealed that their products are located at primary cilia and centrosomes. However, the proximal disease mechanisms remain poorly understood. We identified by whole exome resequencing, mutations that affect the centrosomal proteins FAN1, MRE11, ZNF423, and CEP164, as novel causes of NPHP-RC. Surprisingly, these ciliopathy genes serve functions within the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway (Chaki & Airik et al Cell, in press). Specifically, i) We identify a homozygous truncating mutation (W707X) of FAN1 in 2 siblings with karyomegalic interstitial nephritis (KIN), which is histologically indistinguishable from NPHP, except for the feature of karyomegaly. FAN1 is essential for the DNA interstrand crosslink (ICL) repair pathway of DDR signaling. The KIN renal phenotype is mimicked by ICL-causing genotoxins including busulfan and ochratoxin A. ii) We identify in siblings with cerebellar vermis hypoplasia (CVH) a homozygous truncation mutation of MRE11 (R633X), which is an essential component of the ATM-Chk2 pathway of DDR, where MRE11 recruits ATM to sites of DNA double-strand breaks. iii) We identify in 2 siblings with nephronophthisis and CVH a homozygous missense mutation (P913L) in the zinc finger-encoding gene ZNF423. Ablation of the homologous gene (Zfp423) was shown to generate CVH in mice due to defects of cerebellar progenitor cell differentiation. Interestingly, ZNF423 interacts with the DNA ds-break sensor PARP1, which recruits MRE11 (MRN) and ATM to sites of DNA damage. iv) ATM, in turn, is activated by MRE11 (MRN) and the ‘TIP60 complex’. And we demonstrate colocalization to TIP60-positive (and SC35-positive) nuclear foci or protein-protein interactions for the following products of genes mutated in NPHP-RC: SDCCAG8/NPHP10, ZNF423, CEP164, OFD1, RUVBL1, RUVBL2, NPHP5, NPHP1, and ATXN10. OFD1, RUVBL1, RUVBL2, are known to play a role in DDR. vi) Finally, in 4 different families with NPHP-RC we identify recessive mutations of CEP164 as a novel cause of NPHP-RC. CEP164 acts in the ATR-Chk1-related arm of DDR, where it is necessary for ATR-dependent Chk1 activation upon induced replication stress (Sivasubramaniam 2008). We suggest a new pathogenic working hypothesis for certain forms of NPHP-RC proposing the following cascade of events: i) defects of DDR → lack of Chk1 (Chk2) activation → inadequate G2/M cell cycle arrest. This would lead in high proliferation states (high replication stress) during morphogenesis to dysplastic phenotypes (Meckel syndrome) and in low proliferation states (low replication stress) during tissue maintenance and repair to tissue degeneration and fibrosis (nephronophthisis), perhaps due to loss of adult progenitor cells.
Luminescence spectra at bending fracture of single crystal MgO

Abstract Luminescence at bending fracture of single crystal MgO is investigated. Emission bands at about 400–500 and 730 nm are observed in the fractoluminescence spectra. The former emission decays within several microseconds while the latter decays in several hundreds of microseconds. By comparing with the result of photoluminescence, the 400–500 nm band in the fractoluminescence should be assigned to an intrinsic defect center, while the 730 nm band is due to Cr 3+ impurity.