cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stabilization of methionine enkephalin in various rabbit mucosal extracts by enzyme inhibitors

Abstract The inhibition of the enzymatic degradation of methionine enkephalin (Met-Enk) was investigated kinetically in nasal, rectal, and vaginal extracts of rabbits with and without inhibitors, such as puromycin (PM), amastatin (AM), thiorphan (TP), Na2EDTA, and thimerosal (TM), alone or in combination, by analyzing the parent peptide and its hydrolytic fragments by HPLC. The effects of variation of pH in the nasal extracts, and the addition of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (2-HP-β-CyD) on the stabilization of Met-Enk were also studied. The degradation of Met-Enk was found to be fastest at around pH 7, indicating that the activity of enkephalin-degrading enzymes is optimal at this pH. Addition of 2-HP-β-CyD (10%) to the nasal, rectal, and vaginal extracts was noted to reduce the first-order degradation rate constants for Met-Enk by 2.5-2.8-fold, compared to the control. AM alone inhibited the enzymatic degradation of Met-Enk with IC50 values of 3.5 and 0.22 μM for the rectal and vaginal extracts, respectively, whereas PM was found to be approx. 14.2- and 26.8-fold less potent than AM, respectively. The effects of both aminopeptidase inhibitors in the nasal extracts were smaller. Even at 50 μM, TP (a potent enkephalinase A inhibitor) alone revealed only a small increase of Met-Enk stability in the various mucosal extracts, however, EDTA (5 μM) was observed to inhibit enzymatic hydrolysis considerably by blocking both enkephalinase A and B and, to some extent, aminopeptidase. On the other hand, TM (0.05%) was found to be a new and potent inhibitor for enkephalinase B and aminopeptidases, which was more potent than AM (50 μM) in inhibiting the degradation of Met-Enk in various mucosal extracts. Furthermore, the addition of TM (0.01%) to a combination of AM (50 μM) and EDTA (5 μM) was observed to protect Met-Enk from enzymatic degradation in nasal, rectal, and vaginal extracts by more than 90%, after 24 h of incubation, by inhibiting almost completely all the enkephalin-degrading enzymes present in the incubation mixtures.
Intrasaccular bubbles of near-zero surface tension stabilize neonatal lungs

Mature rabbit fetuses produce intrapulmonary foam at the onset of breathing at birth. Bubbles establish a minimal volume immediately and require relatively little distending pressure for their formation. Stability of bubbles that are formed during both rapid spontaneous breathing in vivo and slow inflation-deflation of excised lungs is determined by the surfactant content of fetal pulmonary fluid (FPF). Mature bubbles can be delivered at atmospheric pressure from all aerated saccules by microdissection. When observed in air-equilibrated normal saline solution (NSS), their stability with time indicates that film surface tension (γ) is very low, i.e., near-zero. When mature FPF is replaced with NSS, stable bubble production is absent. Conversely, supplementation of immature FPF with a surfactant dispersion prior to aeration induces bubbles that are as stable (near-zero γ) as those from mature lungs. Proper mixing of the supplement, e.g., by repeated inflation-deflation, is required for proper distribution of foam in the immature fetal saccules. From these findings, it may be concluded that bubbles establish the condition for production of near-zero γ in situ. The latter stabilizes the lung by sustaining normal liquid transfers (Pattle theory). In addition, bubble films promote mechanical stability by providing a saccular infrastructure that resists collapse and retards surface spreading.
45.3: Efficient Phosphorescent OLEDs for Warm White And Cool White Lighting Applications

We present an all-phosphorescent warm white OLED pixel with a high efficacy of 63 lm/W and an extended lifetime to LT70=10,000 hours at 3000 cd/m2. This device has an Energy Star white color with CIE 1931 (x, y) = (0.469, 0.428), CCT=2703K and a high CRI=89. We also present a PHOLED pixel for potential cooler white lighting applications with CIE 1931 (x, y)=(0.352, 0.369), and CCT=4809K. At 1000 cd/m2 the power efficacy=57 lm/W.
Adiabatic shape preservation and solitary waves in a five-level atomic medium

Adiabatically shape-preserving-wave and solitary-wave solutions for five-level atomic systems are presented. They give the idealized situations for the shape preserving propagation of optical waves through a five-level atomic medium, and provide some useful comparisons with the electromagnetically induced transparency experiments performed by Harris and his collaborators on atoms with hyperfine structure.
Multi‐scale analysis of species introductions: combining landscape and demographic models to improve management decisions about non‐native species

Summary 1. Non-native, invasive species can affect biological patterns and processes at multiple ecological scales. The multi-scalar effects of invasions can influence community structure, ecosystem processes and function, and the nature and intensity of ecological interactions. Consequently, efforts to assess the spread of invasive species may benefit from a multi-scale analytic approach. 2. We analysed results from landscape- and population-scale models for Syzygiurn jambos, a non native tree in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico, to demonstrate a multi-scale approach that can be used to inform management decisions about invasive plants. At the landscape-level, we used an Ecological Niche Modelling approach to predict environmentally suitable habitats for the target plant. At the population-level, we constructed matrix projection models to determine the finite rate of population increase (X) for S. jambos. We then extrapolated X values to the landscape-scale to obtain a distribution map of X values for the Luquillo forest. 3. The landscape analyses suggested that the most environmentally suitable habitats were those most similar to where S. jambos had already been observed. The population-level analyses showed that four of the seven populations had X values less than 1, indicating that they were projected to be below replacement. The X distribution map showed that S. jambos growth was highest in areas where it was most common and lowest in areas where it was most rare. 4. Our analyses further suggested that the importance of different drivers of invasion and the envi ronmental variables that mediate them appear to be strongly scale-dependent. Past disturbances seemed most important for controlling invasions at fine-spatial scales; while abiotic environmental variables modulated coarse-scale invasion dynamics. 5. Synthesis and applications. We have shown that a multi-scale analytic approach can be used to manage invasive species by simultaneously targeting susceptible life stages and rapidly growing populations in a landscape. The utility of this approach stems from an ability to: (i) map the distribution of habitats that can potentially sustain X values above replacement; (ii) identify populations to manage or monitor during selected stages of an invasion; (iii) forecast the probability for a target species to increase above a critical threshold abundance; and (iv) set priorities for control and monitoring actions.
Cosmology of brane models with radion stabilization

We analyze the cosmology of the Randall-Sundrum model and that of compact brane models in general in the presence of a radius stabilization mechanism. We find that the expansion of our Universe is generically in agreement with the expected effective four dimensional description. The constraint (which is responsible for the appearance of nonconventional cosmologies in these models) that must be imposed on the matter densities on the two branes in the theory without a stabilized radius is a consequence of requiring a static solution even in the absence of stabilization. Such constraints disappear in the presence of a stablizing potential, and the ordinary Friedmann-Robertson-Walker (FRW) equations are reproduced, with the expansion driven by the sum of the physical values of the energy densities on the two branes and in the bulk. For the case of the Randall-Sundrum model we examine the kinematics of the radion field, and find that corrections to the standard FRW equations are small for temperatures below the weak scale. We find that the radion field has renormalizable and unsuppressed couplings to standard model particles after electroweak symmetry breaking. These couplings may have important implications for collider searches. We comment on the possibility that matter off the TeV brane could serve as a dark matter candidate.
Easing International Medical Graduates' Entry Into US Training

Despite recent increases in the number of US medical graduates, international medical graduates (IMGs) constitute an important part of the US health care system and will continue to be needed to meet the nation's demands for medical services.,1,2 Due to differences in culture, education, and local health care systems, IMG applicants and residents and the institutions preparing them for their professional careers experience financial, social, and political challenges, as well as personal, emotional, and financial hardships. We present the perspective of IMGs and provide practical suggestions for making the selection process and transition into US residency smoother and more efficient. This will better prepare this group for their training and service to their patients and, ultimately, the US health care system.
Syntheses of isomeric cyanobiphenyl‐substituted polysiloxanes for stationary phases in gas chromatography

Nine isomeric cyanobiphenyl-substituted polysiloxanes were synthesized using a four-step procedure and tested as stationary phases in open tubular column gas chromatography.
The Chimpanzee Model of Hepatitis C Virus Infections

The chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) is the only experimental animal susceptible to infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The chimpanzee model of HCV infection was instrumental in the initial studies on non-A, non-B hepatitis, including observations on the clinical course of infection, determination of the physical properties of the virus, and eventual cloning of the HCV nucleic acid. This review focuses on more recent aspects of the use of the chimpanzee in HCV research. The chimpanzee model has been critical for the analysis of early events in HCV infection because it represents a population for which samples are available from the time of exposure and all exposed animals are examined. For this reason, the chimpanzee represents a truly nonselected population. In contrast, human cohorts are often selected for disease status or antibody reactivity and typically include individuals that have been infected for decades. The chimpanzee model is essential to an improved understanding of the factors involved in viral clearance, analysis of the immune response to infection, and the development of vaccines. The development of infectious cDNA clones of HCV was dependent on the use of chimpanzees, and they will continue to be needed in the use of reverse genetics to evaluate critical sequences for viral replication. In addition, chimpanzees have been used in conjunction with DNA microarray technology to probe the entire spectrum of changes in liver gene expression during the course of HCV infection. The chimpanzee will continue to provide a critical aspect to the understanding of HCV disease and the development of therapeutic modalities.
Using multi-angle WorldView-2 imagery to determine ocean depth near the island of Oahu, Hawaii

Multispectral imaging (MSI) data acquired at different view angles provide an analyst with a unique view into shallow water. Observations from DigitalGlobe's WorldView-2 (WV-2) sensor, acquired in 39 images in one orbital pass on 30 July 2011, are being analyzed to determine bathymetry along the windward side of the Oahu coastline. Satellite azimuth and elevation range from 18.8 to 185.8 degrees, and 24.9 (forward-looking) to 24.9 (backward-looking) degrees with 90 degrees representing a nadir view (respectively). WV-2's eight multispectral bands provide depth information (especially using the Blue, Green, and Yellow bands), as well as information about bottom type and surface glint (using the Red and NIR bands). Bathymetric analyses of the optical data will be compared to LiDAR-derived bathymetry in future work. This research shows the impact of varying view angle on inferred bathymetry and discusses the differences between angle acquisitions.
Coagulase Negative Staphylococci(CNS): The Leading Cause of Early Onset Sepsis (EOS) in Neonates

Coagulase Negative Staphylococci(CNS): The Leading Cause of Early Onset Sepsis (EOS) in Neonates
Suppression of Biquadratic Coupling in Fe / Cr(001) Superlattices below the Néel Transition of Cr

The N\'eel temperature ( ${T}_{N}$) of Cr in sputtered, epitaxial Fe $/$Cr(001) superlattices is identified via transport and magnetic anomalies. The onset of the antiferromagnetism is at a thickness ${t}_{\mathrm{Cr}}$ of 42 \AA{}. The bulk value of ${T}_{N}$ is approached asymptotically as ${t}_{\mathrm{Cr}}$ increases and is characterized by a three-dimensional shift exponent. Most strikingly, the biquadratic interlayer magnetic coupling (90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} orientation of adjacent Fe layers), observed in the thick Cr regime, is suppressed below ${T}_{N}$. These results are attributed to finite-size effects and spin frustration near rough Fe-Cr interfaces.
Microcystins alter chemotactic behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans by selectively targeting the AWA sensory neuron

Harmful algal blooms expose humans and animals to microcystins (MCs) through contaminated drinking water. While hepatotoxicity following acute exposure to MCs is well documented, neurotoxicity after sub-lethal exposure is poorly understood. We developed a novel statistical approach using a generalized linear model and the quasibinomial family to analyze neurotoxic effects in adult Caenorhabditis elegans exposed to MC-LR or MC-LF for 24 h. Selective effects of toxin exposure on AWA versus AWC sensory neuron function were determined using a chemotaxis assay. With a non-monotonic response MCs altered AWA but not AWC function, and MC-LF was more potent than MC-LR. To probe a potential role for protein phosphatases (PPs) in MC neurotoxicity, we evaluated the chemotactic response in worms exposed to the PP1 inhibitor tautomycin or the PP2A inhibitor okadaic acid for 24 h. Okadaic acid impaired both AWA and AWC function, while tautomycin had no effect on function of either neuronal cell type at the concentrations tested. These findings suggest that MCs alter the AWA neuron at concentrations that do not cause AWC toxicity via mechanisms other than PP inhibition.
Rounded Cutting Edge Model for the Prediction of Bone Sawing Forces

A new analytical model to predict bone sawing forces is presented. Development of the model was based on the concept of a single tooth sawing at a depth of cut less than the cutting edge radius. A variable friction model was incorporated as well as elastic Hertzian contact stress to determine a lower bound for the integration limits. A new high speed linear apparatus was developed to simulate cutting edge speeds encountered with sagittal and reciprocating bone saws. Orthogonal cutting experiments in bovine cortical bone were conducted for comparison to the model. A design of the experiment's approach was utilized with linear cutting speeds between 2600 and 6200 mm/s for depths of cut between 2.5 and 10 μm. Resultant forces from the design of experiments were in the range of 8 to 11 N, with higher forces at greater depths of cut. Model predictions for resultant force magnitude were generally within one standard deviation of the measured force. However, the model consistently predicted a thrust to cutting force ratio that was greater than measured. Consequently, resultant force angles predicted by the model were generally 20 deg higher than calculated from experimental thrust and cutting force measurements.
Time course of albumin equilibration in interstitium and lymph of normal mouse lungs.

Abstract We have investigated the vascular/extravascular equilibration of Evans bluelabeled albumin in mice lungs. We injected the tracer intravenously and after different time intervals rapidly froze the lungs in the open-chested, anesthetized animals. The lungs were freeze-dried and the distribution of the bright red Evans blue-albumin fluorescence studied on 10 μm thick sections in a fluorescence microscope. Ten minutes after the injection no Evans blue-albumin could be detected outside the pulmonary vessels. At 20 min we could detect some fluorescent albumin in loose interstitial tissue and in the lymph vessels. Three to five hours after injection vascular/extravascular equilibration appeared to be nearly complete. We could not detect any definite site of albumin leakage from the microvascular bed. Neither were we able to observe any obvious difference in fluorescent intensity between peripheral and central lymphatics.
Development of a compact in situ polarized 3He neutron spin filter at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

We constructed a compact in situ polarized 3He neutron spin filter based on spin-exchange optical pumping which is capable of continuous pumping of the 3He gas while the system is in place in the neutron beam on an instrument. The compact size and light weight of the system simplifies its utilization on various neutron instruments. The system has been successfully tested as a neutron polarizer on the triple-axis spectrometer (HB3) and the hybrid spectrometer (HYSPEC) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Over 70% 3He polarization was achieved and maintained during the test experiments. Over 90% neutron polarization and an average of 25% transmission for neutrons of 14.7 meV and 15 meV was also obtained.
Product selectivity control and organic oxygenate pathways from partial oxidation of methane in a silent electric discharge reactor

This study of methane conversion involves the use of a glass dielectric interposed between metal electrodes and applies kilovolt AC voltage and 118-W power with frequencies in the range of 173−264 Hz. The geometry of the system is cylindrical, with gas flowing axially in the annulus between two electrodes. The partial oxidation reactions in this configuration produce methanol, formaldehyde, formic acid, methyl formate, ethane, hydrogen, water, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. The outer electrode is maintained at a low temperature (12 or 15 °C), allowing the organic oxygenates to condense on the plate itself inside the reactor. The results show, through residence-time experiments, that methane and oxygen react to form methanol, which further reacts to form formaldehyde, methyl formate, and formic acid. Increasing the gas gap from 4.0 to 12.0 mm decreases the reduced electric field from 30 to 18 V/(cm Torr), which results in a shift in the product distribution from organic oxygenate products to ethane, ...
Tracking a convoy of multiple targets using acoustic sensor data

In this paper we present an algorithm to track a convoy of several targets in a scene using acoustic sensor array data. The tracking algorithm is based on template of the direction of arrival (DOA) angles for the leading target. Often the first target is the closest target to the sensor array and hence the loudest with good signal to noise ratio. Several steps were used to generate a template of the DOA angle for the leading target, namely, (a) the angle at the present instant should be close to the angle at the previous instant and (b) the angle at the present instant should be within error bounds of the predicted value based on the previous values. Once the template of the DOA angles of the leading target is developed, it is used to predict the DOA angle tracks of the remaining targets. In order to generate the tracks for the remaining targets, a track is established if the angles correspond to the initial track values of the first target. Second the time delay between the first track and the remaining tracks are estimated at the highest correlation points between the first track and the remaining tracks. As the vehicles move at different speeds the tracks either compress or expand depending on whether a target is moving fast or slow compared to the first target. The expansion and compression ratios are estimated and used to estimate the predicted DOA angle values of the remaining targets. Based on these predicted DOA angles of the remaining targets the DOA angles obtained from the MVDR or Incoherent MUSIC will be appropriately assigned to proper tracks. Several other rules were developed to avoid mixing the tracks. The algorithm is tested on data collected at Aberdeen Proving Ground with a convoy of 3, 4 and 5 vehicles. Some of the vehicles are tracked and some are wheeled vehicles. The tracking algorithm results are found to be good. The results will be presented at the conference and in the paper.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Phosphorylation of AFAP-110 affects podosome lifespan in A7r5 cells.

AFAP-110 is an actin-binding and -crosslinking protein that is enriched in Src and phorbol ester (PE)-induced podosomes. In vascular smooth muscle cells endogenous AFAP-110 localized to actin stress fibers and, in response to treatment with phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), to actin-rich podosomes. Since PEs can activate PKCα, AFAP-110 is a substrate of PKCα and PKCα–AFAP-110 interactions direct podosome formation, we sought to identify a PE-induced phosphorylation site in AFAP-110 and determine whether phosphorylation is linked to the formation of podosomes. Mutational analysis revealed Ser277 of AFAP-110 to be phosphorylated in PE-treated cells. The use of a newly generated, phospho-specific antibody directed against phosphorylated Ser277 revealed that PKCα activation is associated with PE-induced AFAP-110 phosphorylation. In PDBu-treated A7r5 rat vascular smooth muscle cells, immunolabeling using the phospho-specific antibody showed that phospho-AFAP-110 is primarily associated with actin in podosomes. Although mutation of Ser at position 277 to Ala (AFAP-110 S277A ) did not alter the ability of AFAP-110 to localize to podosomes, overexpression of AFAP-110 S277A in treated and untreated A7r5 cells resulted in an increased number of cells that display podosomes. Video microscopy demonstrated that AFAP-110 S277A expression correlates with an increased number of long-lived podosomes. Therefore, we hypothesize that AFAP-110 phosphorylation and/or dephosphorylation is involved in the regulation of podosome stability and lifespan.
A prospective study of the natural history of asthma. Remission and relapse rates.

In this longitudinal study of a general population sample, remissions of asthma were common only during the second decade of life and were especially unusual in subjects ages 30 to 60 years on enrollment. Asthmatic subjects with severe symptoms, with reduced ventilatory function, or with a concomitant diagnosis of chronic bronchitis or emphysema on entry to the study were very unlikely to be in remission nine years later. Relapses of disease were common in subjects with a past history of asthma who were considered to be quiescient on enrollment to the study. Relapse rates tended to increase with age, at least up to the age of 70. Relapses were especially frequent among those "ex-asthmatics" who had persisting respiratory symptomatology on entry to the study.
Xanthophyll cycle and light stress in nature: uniform response to excess direct sunlight among higher plant species

Photosystem II (PS II) efficiency, nonphotochemical fluorescence quenching, and xanthophyll cycle composition were determined in situ in the natural environment at midday in (i) a range of differently angled sun leaves ofEuonymus kiautschovicus Loesener and (ii) in sun leaves of a wide range of different plant species, including trees, shrubs, and herbs. Very different degrees of light stress were experienced by these leaves (i) in response to different levels of incident photon flux densities at similar photosynthetic capacities amongEuonymus leaves and (ii) as a result of very different photosynthetic capacities among species at similar incident photon flux densities (that were equivalent to full sunlight). ForEuonymus as well as the interspecific comparison all data fell on one single, close relationship for changes in intrinsic PSII efficiency, nonphotochemical fluorescence quenching, or the levels of zeaxanthin + antheraxanthin in leaves, respectively, as a function of the actual level of light stress. Thus, the same conversion state of the xanthophyll cycle and the same level of energy dissipation were observed for a given degree of light stress independent of species or conditions causing the light stress. Since all increases in thermal energy dissipation were associated with increases in the levels of zeaxanthin + antheraxanthin in these leaves, there was thus no indication of any form of xanthophyll cycle-independent energy dissipation in any of the twenty-four species or varieties of plants examined in their natural environment. It is also concluded that transient diurnal changes in intrinsic PSII efficiency in nature are caused by changes in the efficiency with which excitation energy is delivered from the antennae to PSII centers, and are thus likely to be purely photoprotective. Consequently, the possibility of quantifying the allocation of absorbed light into PSII photochemistry versus energy dissipation in the antennae from changes in intrinsic PSII efficiency is explored.
Comparative bioavailability study of two tablet formulations of cimetidine

A two-way crossover bioavailability study of two commercial cimetidine formaulations was performed on 24 healthy male volunteers. Drug was administered after an overnight fast and plasma samples were withdrawn periodically for 12 h. Urine was collected throughout the study period. Results indicated that the two formulations were bio-equivalent since no statistically significant difference in means was detected for any of the parameters studied. Extensive interpatient variation in cimetidine blood concentration was observed during both treatments.
Non-contact measurement of linear external dimensions of the mouse eye

Biometric analyses of quantitative traits in eyes of mice can reveal abnormalities related to refractive or ocular development. Due to the small size of the mouse eye, highly accurate and precise measurements are needed to detect meaningful differences. We sought a non-contact measuring technique to obtain highly accurate and precise linear dimensions of the mouse eye. Laser micrometry was validated with gauge block standards. Simple procedures to measure eye dimensions on three axes were devised. Mouse eyes from C57BL/6J and rd10 on a C57BL/6J background were dissected and extraocular muscle and fat removed. External eye dimensions of axial length (anterior-posterior (A-P) axis) and equatorial diameter (superior-inferior (S-I) and nasal-temporal (N-T) axes) were obtained with a laser micrometer. Several approaches to prevent or ameliorate evaporation due to room air were employed. The resolution of the laser micrometer was less than 0.77 microm, and it provided accurate and precise non-contact measurements of eye dimensions on three axes. External dimensions of the eye strongly correlated with eye weight. The N-T and S-I dimensions of the eye correlated with each other most closely from among the 28 pair-wise combinations of the several parameters that were collected. The equatorial axis measurements correlated well from the right and left eye of each mouse. The A-P measurements did not correlate or correlated poorly in each pair of eyes. The instrument is well suited for the measurement of enucleated eyes and other structures from most commonly used species in experimental vision research and ophthalmology.
Hydrogen generation in a microhollow cathode discharge in high-pressure ammonia-argon gas mixtures

Abstract We explored the feasibility of using a single flow-through microhollow cathode discharge (MHCD) as a non-thermal plasma source for hydrogen (H 2 ) production for portable fuel cell applications. The MHCD device consisted of two thin metal electrodes separated by a mica spacer with a single-hole, roughly 100 μm in diameter, through all three layers. The efficiency of the MHCD reactor for H 2 generation from NH 3 was analyzed by monitoring the products formed in the discharge in a mass spectrometer. Using a gas mixture of up to 10% NH 3 in Ar at pressures up to one atmosphere, the MHCD reactor achieved a maximum ammonia conversion of slightly more than 20%. The overall power efficiency of the MHCD reactor reached a peak value of about 11%. The dependence of NH 3 conversion and power efficiency on the residence time of the gas in the MHCD plasma was studied. Experiments using pulsed excitation of the MHCD plasma indicated that pulsing can increase the power efficiency. Design and operating criteria are proposed for a microplasma-based H 2 generator that can achieve a power efficiency above the break-even point, i.e., a microplasma reactor that requires less electrical power to generate and maintain the plasma than the power that can be obtained from the conversion of the H 2 generated in the microplasma reactor.
All-optical characterization of fs-laser induced refractive index changes in bulk and at the surface of zinc phosphate glasses

The permanent refractive index change induced by ultrashort laser pulses in zinc phosphate glasses has been investigated both at the surface and in bulk. At the sample surface, irradiations have been performed by using loosely focused single fs-laser pulses at different energies. Optical microscopy images of the irradiations illustrate an interferometric pattern in form of concentric Newton rings due to the laser induced multilayer system (unmodified glass, thin laser-modified layer, air). This experimental reflectivity modulation along with simulations based on Abeles theory for multilayer optical systems allows retrieving laser-induced refractive index changes on the order of Δns= -10 -3 . In bulk, fs-laser written waveguides have been generated by translating the sample with respect to a tightly focused laser beam. The so-produced waveguides have been characterized by studying the optical near field of the TEM 00 guided mode at 660 nm and using white light microscopy. The optical changes linked to the inscribed waveguides have been characterized by measuring the far field output profiles yielding values of approximately Δn b = +3·10 -4 . The laser-modified optical properties in bulk and at the surface will be linked to the glass structural changes as well as discussed in terms of the role of the incubation effects for multi-pulse processing.
Hepatorenal findings in obligate heterozygotes for autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), characterized by progressive cystic degeneration of the kidneys and congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF), is the most common childhood onset ciliopathy, with an estimated frequency of 1 in 20,000 births. It is caused by mutations in PKHD1. The carrier frequency for ARPKD in the general population is estimated at 1 in 70. Given the recessive inheritance pattern, individuals who are heterozygous for PKHD1 mutations are not expected to have clinical findings. We performed ultrasound (USG) evaluations on 110 parents from 64 independent ARPKD families and identified increased medullary echogenicity in 6 (5.5%) and multiple small liver cysts in 10 parents (9%). All ARPKD parents with these abnormal imaging findings were asymptomatic; kidney and liver function tests were unremarkable. Complete sequencing of PKHD1 in the 16 ARPKD parents with abnormal imaging confirmed the mutation transmitted to the proband, but did not reveal any other pathogenic variants. Our data suggest that carrier status for ARPKD is a predisposition to polycystic liver disease and renal involvement associated with increased medullary echogenicity on USG. Whether some of these individuals become symptomatic as they age remains to be determined.
Computational studies of convection due to rotation in a cylindrical floating zone

Forced convection caused by crystal and feed rotation with a cylindrical floating zone was studied numerically for a Reynolds number, Re=a2ωsv=100, and various rotation ratios, -1⩽S=gwfgws⩽1 (a is the rod radius, v is the kinematic viscosity, ωs is the crystal rotation rate, and ωf is the feed rotation rate.) For 1>S⩾0 (isorotation), a circulating flow along the axis from the feed to the crystal appears in the zone. For 0>S⩾-1 (counterrotation), there are one or two circulating flows appear if the rotation ratio is between -0.5 nad -1. They are separated by a transition layer. Each flow circulates along the axis to each rod and is quite similar to that caused by rotation of a single rod. The effects of the fluid flow on the temperature field were also studied.
Primary nonfunctioning adrenal tumors in adults

During the past ten years, 18 nonfunctioning adrenal tumors have been removed. The significance of these lesions may be unknown to the urologist because reported cases and series are few and pathologic possibilities are numerous. The significant percentage of carcinoma is demonstrated in this series. Presentation, workup, pathology, and operative approaches are discussed.
Constructional Names and Symbols for the Subclasses in the Simplified Classification of Meteorites

Constructional names and symbols for all 32 of the subclasses of meteorites recognized in the simplified classification are given. These names and symbols indicate, in each case, the general structure and mineral composition of the comprized meteorites. The paper contains 4 tables: (1) 20 qualifying symbols or qualifiers; (2) symbols for the 16 minerals commonly occurring in meteorites; (3) symbols for 24 other minerals found in meteorites; and (4) the 32 subclasses of meteorites and their symbols. Some 13 subclasses that have been excluded from the simplified classification, and both “composite” and “transitional” meteorites are condensedly discussed. Finally, the classificational sequence of meteorites, which is a sequence primarily of increasing density from left to right, is written out, in terms of the new constructional symbols, for all 32 of the subclasses in the simplified classification, and the sequence is briefly reviewed.
Radiation techniques in neuro-oncology

Radiation therapy plays a critical role in the management of tumors of the brain. A variety of radiotherapy techniques have been used to treat these tumors. This review describes both classic and more recent and advanced techniques available to manage these tumors. Included is a discussion of standard two- and three-dimensional radiation, as well as intensity-modulated radiotherapy, image-guided radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and heavy particles.
Fire adaptation in Neblinaria celiae (Theaceae), a high-elevation rosette shrub endemic to a wet equatorial tepui

Neblinaria celiae (Theaceae), a rosette shrub endemic to the exceedingly rainy summit of remote Cerro de la Neblina in southern Venezuela, has a previously undescribed set of adaptations to fire. Its growth form entails sparse branching, massive terminal leaf rosettes, and thick bark. It is highly fire-tolerant, with a survival rate of 93% in a stand recently ignited by lightning, vs. 0% in seven co-occurring woody species. Survival increases sharply with rosette height, favoring a sparsely branched habit that would maximize the rate of upward growth through the sparse fuel layer supported by a sterile substrate. Thick bark and massive rosettes help protect cambial and foliar meristems from brief exposure to high temperatures. Rosettes on shorter plants are exposed to greater damage from fire near the ground and, as expected, are bigger and impound more rainwater; the greater number of leaves nearly balances the greater leaf mortality caused by fire. We relate Neblinaria's growth form to its dominance atop Neblina, to a general model for the evolution of sparse branching, and to the evolution of growth form in other tepui plants.
Acute hemorrhagic stroke pathophysiology and medical interventions: blood pressure control, management of anticoagulant-associated brain hemorrhage and general management principles

Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage is a neurologic emergency that accounts for about 10% to 20% of all strokes. Few patients suffering from intracerebral hemorrhage are expected to be independent 6 months after the event. This article reviews the pathophysiology and general medical management principles of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, including the acute management of elevated blood pressure and management of anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage.
Alternate Splicing of Human Thromboxane Synthase mRNA

Two species of human thromboxane synthase (TXS) cDNA, called TXS-I and -II, were previously isolated (K. Ohashi, K.-H. Ruan, R. J. Kulmacz, K. K. Wu, and L.-H. Wang, 1992, J. Biol. Chem. 267, 789-793). TXS-II differs from TXS-I by a 163-bp deletion near the 3'-end of the coding region. Both types of TXS mRNA have now been demonstrated to be present in various blood and lung cultured cells. Analysis of the exon-intron boundaries of TXS genomic DNA revealed that the two mRNAs are generated via alternate splicing: TXS-II is produced by skipping an entire 163-bp exon which encodes the polypeptide segment containing the heme-binding cysteine conserved among other P450s. The mechanism by which alternate splicing occurs is probably due to the presence of a more powerful potential as the 3' acceptor site in the intron following the 163-bp exon. When expressed in baculovirus system, recombinant TXS-I catalyzed the formation of thromboxane A2 and 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (HHT), whereas recombinant TXS-II did not synthesize thromboxane A2 or HHT. Alternate splicing of TXS RNA transcript thus may provide a mechanism for limiting cellular biosynthesis of thromboxane A2.
Return of an Old Problem: Fusarium Head Blight of Small Grains

Several species of fungus cause Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), but F. graminearum has been important in the US. The mixture of maize, wheat and barley production, and use of reduced tillage and increased residue retention encourage epidemics of FHB. Strong interest in use of fungicide sprays continues but the complete answer remains elusive. Molecular marker-assisted plant breeding is being used to breed for FHB resistance.
Adolescent English language learners' stances toward disciplinary writing

Abstract Since adolescent English language learners (ELLs) are facing increasing demands to engage in advanced disciplinary writing and this type of writing is oftentimes one of the most challenging academic tasks they encounter, this study investigated their experiences with writing in English language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics classrooms. Rooted in a social-constructivist conception of writing, which foregrounds the relationship between individual agency, engagement, and disciplinary discourse, this study asked: 1) What are adolescent ELLs' stances toward content-area writing and how do they differ by grade level? 2) To what factors do adolescent ELLs attribute their stances toward writing? 3) How do adolescent ELLs' stances vary across content areas and by type of writing? A micro-level discourse analysis approach was used to analyze interviews with 26 ELLs in different school contexts with varying emphases on writing in the core disciplines. The analyses revealed generally positive stances toward source-based writing tasks, even when students viewed these as challenging, yet negative stances toward writing in which literary texts provided the source material. This study is timely in light of the increased emphasis on the development of advanced disciplinary writing competencies among adolescent ELLs. Implications for pedagogy are discussed.
A criterion for space capsule fire hazard minimization.

Flame mechanism experiments for solid material surface, measuring flame velocity, stressing space capsule fire hazard minimization
Absolute and Relative Power Output in Men and Women

In motor activities in which the performer's body must be moved a prescribed distance as quickly as possible (e.g., 100 m sprint), the maximal or absolute power (AP) generated during movement is secondary to over-all speed of movement. Often strong individuals, possessing large muscle masses and high AP, are less successful at these events than their smaller, weaker peers. It appears that, when total body acceleration and maximum velocity are rhe critical factors, power relative to total body weight (RPTL1lV in watts/kg) is the more important determinant of maximal performance. In sports where body weight is necessarily equated (e.g., wrestling, boxing) or where excessive weight is clearly disadvantageous (e.g., gymnastics), power relative to lean body weight (RPLB,~ in watts/kg) may be even more important. Few data are available to describe the relative power outputs oi men and women so this study compared absolute and relative power production of men and women during the performance of several frequently employed power tests. Eighteen men and 19 women from physical activity courses participated. Means for age, height, and weight were 21.5 yr., 179.1 cm., and 77.1 kg., respectively, for men and 21.5 yr., 167.0 cm., and 63.2 kg., respectively, for women. Following analysis of body composition (M% fat = 13.3 (men) and 22.5 (women) ) , subjects performed modified Sargent jump (4), MargariaKalarnen (2, 3) and 6-sec. maximal bicycle ergometer (1) power tests. The results are shown below. Grouped AP scores were only moderately correlated with grouped RPYn,,. and RPLR\\~ for men (Pearson T = .47 and .76, respectively) and for women (Pearson r = .67 and .61, respectively). These results suggest that, not only do men tend to generate more absolute muscle power than women but also appear to produce greater power per unit of tissue. Furthermore, it appears
Basis for judgments of relative brightness.

The hypothesis is offered that relative brightness judgments are based upon experience with the way the amount of light reflected by objects changes with their distance from the light source.The experimental results support this hypothesis. One group of 40 subjects judged half brightness, and another 40 estimated the change in luminance corresponding to moving a hidden point light source to twice the distance from an illuminated standard field. Judgments of the two groups were equivalent.Under stimulus conditions designed to represent the common visual situation (stimuli subtending wide visual angles, adaptation approximating stimulus levels), one quarter the standard luminance was correctly chosen for the effect of doubling distance from the source, and the same fraction was chosen for half brightness for all standard intensities (0.00086 to 87 millilamberts).Under less familiar conditions similar to those employed for the bril scale (small stimuli with black backgrounds, indeterminate levels of adaptation) half brightness judgments were again equivalent to estimates of the effect of doubling distance from object to light source. These estimates were less than one-quarter standard luminance.The hypothesis is discussed in terms of sensory scaling in general, and the neutral value and bril scales in particular.
Influence of residual stresses on the stress intensity factors for a surface crack in the rail head

The stressed state of a rail damaged with crack is studied by the method of singular integral equations in the presence of longitudinal residual stresses. The values of the stress intensity factors are obtained for different angles of orientation of the crack and friction coefficients in the case of rolling contact.
Predicting the Outcomes of Disputes: Consequences for Disputant Reactions to Procedures and Outcomes1

Third parties in dispute settings often make predictions to disputants regarding the likely outcome of their dispute at arbitration. However, virtually no research has examined the impact of predictions on disputant satisfaction with dispute resolution procedures and outcomes. One explanation for the lack of attention to this variable may be that current theorizing regarding dispute resolution procedures is too narrowly stated to incorporate this procedural variation. Theories about predictability from nondispute settings are used to generate hypotheses regarding the consequences of such outcome prediction. In a laboratory setting, disputants prepared arguments in anticipation of an arbitration hearing. Prior to the arbitrator's decision, the experimenter read the disputants' arguments and made a prediction regarding the arbitrator's decision. Their arguments were then presented to an arbitrator who imposed a binding decision. Dependent measures include the disputants' anxiety while awaiting the arbitrator's decision, and their postdecision satisfaction with dispute resolution procedures and outcomes. Internal analyses support the hypothesis that outcome prediction has benefits for disputants' predecision coping, ratings of procedural fairness, and satisfaction judgments. Also, as hypothesized, correct predictions produced greater postdecision satisfaction with outcomes and decision-makers than did incorrect predictions.
A SURVEY OF MARKET SOCIALIST FORMS

Considerable interest is currently emerging in an economic system that would combine the basic socialist principle of public ownership of the non-human factors of production with the basic free market principle of relatively limited control over the economy by the central government. Such a system has come to be known as “market socialism”. This paper provides a survey over the four primary variants of market socialism that may be distinguished in the economic literature. These are as follows: 1) Langian socialism aims at a socialist equivalent to perfectly competitive capitalism; 2) service socialism aims at replacing profit maximization with constrained output or revenue maximization: 3) cooperative socialism aims at installing the employees of the enterprise as its “ultimate” managers; 4) pragmatic socialism aims at a socialist equivalent to contemporary real-world capitalism, whether this system is perfectly competitive or not. A brief description and discussion of each of these variants is provided, together with a review of the relevant literature. The article is concluded with an argument that of the four variants, the pragmatic is the most attractive in terms of possible real-world implementation both because its similarity to capitalism reduces the possibility of imfortunate deficiencies of theoretical blueprints as a guide to actual behavior, and because it best reflects those aspects of the traditional socialist ideal and intent that remain fully valid even at the present time.
Hybrid System Model of Air Traffic Controller Cognition

Increased automation in air traffic control has many benefits, but to incorporate advanced automation tools safely and effectively requires careful analysis of their impact on human controllers. The literature on cognitive psychology and human factors has produced many qualitative models that describe the cognitive processes of controllers as well as a variety of computational models that attempt to reproduce the way controllers make decisions. The work presented here uses these results to form a novel hybrid system framework for modeling human cognition and describes a model of air traffic controller cognition based on this framework. The thought process is modeled as a set of critical variables that represent the human controller's picture of a given air traffic situation, with the evolution of these variables described by a set of hybrid dynamics where the discrete variables correspond to different thought processes and cognitive tasks. The primary contribution of this paper is to place the cognitive m...