cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Selective alpha v beta 3 integrin blockade potently limits neointimal hyperplasia and lumen stenosis following deep coronary arterial stent injury: evidence for the functional importance of integrin alpha v beta 3 and osteopontin expression during neointima formation.

Lumen loss from vascular restenosis remains a leading cause of chronic revascularization failure. Objective : We hypothesized that cell-matrix adhesion, migration, and differentiation events that underlie restenosis are mediated by αvβ3 integrin-ligand interactions. Methods : Using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, we examined the spatial and temporal vessel wall expression of αvβ3 and osteopontin following deep coronary arterial injury. Cell migration and adhesion assays were performed to demonstrate the affinity and specificity of XJ735 for various vessel wall integrins. The effects of XJ 735 (a selective cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptidomimetic αvβ3 antagonist) on neointimal hyperplasia and lumen stenosis were tested in a porcine coronary injury model. Normolipemic swine underwent oversized stent injury followed by XJ 735 administration (9 animals, 28 lesions; 1 mg/kg bolus+7 days 4 mg/kg/d infusion+21 days 2 mg/kg i.v. bolus 12 hourly) or placebo (10 animals, 30 arterial lesions). Results : Maximal αvβ3 immunoreactivity was observed between 7–14 days following injury in the neointima, media, and adventitia. Maximal osteopontin mRNA signal in the neointima, media, and adventitia was observed at 14, 7 and 28 days respectively. IC50 for XJ 735 αvβ3-mediated inhibition of human and porcine endothelial cell adhesion, and vascular smooth muscle cell migration, ranged from 0.6 to 4.4 μM. In contrast, IC50 for porcine or human αIIb/β3, α4β1, αvβ5, and α5β1 inhibition exceeded 100 μM. Steady state XJ 735 plasma levels exceeded 5 μM. Despite slightly higher injury scores in XJ 735 treated animals, significant reductions in mean neointima area (43% reduction; p = 0.0009), and mean percent lumen stenosis (∼2.9 fold reduction; p = 0.04) were observed in XJ 735 treated animals. XJ 735 treatment did not significantly alter the relative size of the arterial injury and reference sites (geometric remodeling). Comparison of neontima area vs. injury score regression lines revealed significant reductions in slope ( p = 0.0001) and intercept ( p = 0.0001) for XJ 735. Conclusions : Selective αvβ3 blockade is an effective anti-restenosis strategy that potently limits neointimal growth and lumen stenosis following deep arterial injury. The co-ordinate spatial and temporal upregulation of αvβ3 expression following vessel wall injury, and the high affinity and specificity of XJ 735 for αvβ3, confirms the importance of this integrin in adhesive and migratory cell-matrix events underlying coronary restenosis.
A dithering algorithm for local composition control with three-dimensional printing

A dithering algorithm is presented for application to local composition control (LCC) with three-dimensional printing (3D printing) to convert continuous-tone representation of objects with LCC into discrete (pointwise) version of machine instructions. The algorithm presented effectively reduces undesirable low frequency textures of composition for individual 3D layers and also for 3D volumes. Peculiarities of the 3D printing machine, including anisotropic geometry of its picture elements (PELs) and uncertainties in droplet placement, are addressed by adapting a standard digital halftoning algorithm. Without loss of generality, our algorithm also accounts for technical limitations in the printing device, only generating lattices that can be represented within the finite memory limits of the hardware.
The alpha-2A-adrenoceptor agonist, guanfacine, increases regional cerebral blood flow in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of monkeys performing a spatial working memory task.

Research indicates that norepinephrine enhances the working memory functions of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) through actions at post-synaptic, alpha-2A adrenoceptors. The current study examined the effects of the alpha-2A adrenoreceptor agonist, guanfacine (0.7 mg/kg, i.m.), compared to saline on SPECT measures of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in monkeys performing a spatial working memory task. Animals were infused with the SPECT blood flow tracer, Tcm-99m ECD, through an indwelling intravenous catheter while performing the working memory task. Guanfacine treatment significantly improved cognitive performance of the working memory task, and significantly increased rCBF values in the dorsolateral PFC, the brain region most tightly associated with performance of spatial working memory tasks. In contrast, guanfacine had no significant effect on rCBF in the superior temporal cortex, an auditory association area unrelated to task performance. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that alpha-2A adrenoceptor stimulation preferentially enhances functioning of the PFC.
A comparison of synchronous and virtual legislative session groups faced with an idea generation task

Abstract An experiment was conducted with groups of about eight people in face-to-face and geographically-distributed electronic meeting environments. While similar studies have focused on the behavior of group members working together in a single room or working individually in different rooms (a nominal group), this research looks at a hybrid environment in which part of a group is working in one room and another part is working simultaneously in a different room that is linked via a local area network, both parts forming a virtual group. Experimental results showed that such groups generated significantly more unique, quality comments than did face-to-face groups, and that participants were significantly more satisfied with that type of meeting. These and other results indicate that groups may be able to meet effectively when distributed geographically.
Force fields and emergent phenomena in sociotechnical macrosystems: Theories and models

It is proposed that further qualitative progress in the computer simulation modeling of complex societal systems is dependent on incorporation of field-theoretic constructs embodying truly behavioral and social forces. A number of separate developments are reviewed in the context of the revitalization of field theory in social science. These are: field theory in sociotechnical systems theory, hierarchy theory, critical phenomena, and catastrophe theory. It is argued that the sociotechnical macrosystem can best be viewed as a field of interacting forces which manifests certain unique phenomena. The phenomena emphasized are: slow, continuous change followed by sudden, discontinuous or catastrophic jumps; incipient changes in the field; hierarchical restructuring; emergence of new properties at successive hierarchical levels; and turbulence of the environmental field. Examples of these phenomena, taken from the dynamics and evolution of societies, are given. Two important contemporary advances in the computer simulation modeling of societies, the Systems Dynamics National Model of the United States socioeconomic system and Mankind at the Turning Point, are discussed with regard both to reflecting field-theoretic interpretations of the dynamics of the macrosystem and to the nontrivial incorporation of behavioral and social factors. Both modeling approaches are found wanting. It is argued that these models therefore lack fidelity, the faithful capturing of real world phenomena.
Extensional primary field approximations for viscoelastic media

TheTrouton ratio, defined as the ratio of the extensional to the shear viscosity, may reach very high levels in viscoelastic media. Consequently the diagonal components of the deformation rate tensor, often of negligible importance in the analysis of flows ofNewtonian fluids, may be of primary interest here. Several significant phenomena unknown inNewtonian fluid mechanics are seen to have their origin in the tensile normal stresses generated by these extensional deformations of viscoelastic fluid media; they include the separation of particles or bubbles in accelerating flows (the „Uebler” effect), the operability of ductless siphons („Spinnbarkeit“) and, probably, turbulent drag reduction. A class of problems which may be treated by neglecting the usual shearing deformation rates and shearing stresses, and considering only the extensional behaviour of the medium, is identified. These problems are characterized by high values of the dimensionless elongation rate, defined as the product of the local extension rate and the natural time of the fluid. As this dimensionless group frequently reaches its highest levels in the primary fluid stream outside a boundary layer this approximation is termed an “Extensional Primary Field” or EPF approximation to focus attention on the primary or “outer” flow, as distinguished from flows in the vicinity of solid surfaces. The EPF approximation appears to provide a sufficient basis for analysis of several problems: converging flows into an orifice or duet from a larger reservoir, flows through porous solids and elongational flows with free surfaces as in textile fiber-spinning operations and flow in ductless siphons. In several other problems — lubricant squeeze films, turbulent flows under drag reducing conditions and flows about submerged objects — EPF considerations appear to be of importance but may not control the entire problem. The potential importance of EPF considerations in treating fluid mechanically controlled crystallization processes is noted.
Pride and Precedent in Early California: Christian Fritz's Ogden Hoffman

CHRISTIAN G. FRITZ, Federal Justice in California: The Court of Ogden Hoffman, 1851-1891. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 1991. Pp. xv+313. $40.00. Biography is a rewarding yet perilous literary form. At its best, it recalls in countless memorable ways the mind and world of a prominent contributor to human history. It explores in the context of a single life the timeless questions of thought and experience that help illuminate both past and present. To the author particularly, biography provides a constant teacher and companion who can instruct, confound, and amuse even from beyond the grave. At the deepest level, it is the literary form that offers most compellingly the hope that our own achievements and travails can somehow endure.'
The spectra of multiplicative attribute graphs

Abstract A multiplicative attribute graph is a random graph in which vertices are represented by random words of length t in a finite alphabet Γ, and the probability of adjacency is a symmetric function Γ t × Γ t → [ 0 , 1 ] . These graphs are a generalization of stochastic Kronecker graphs, and both classes have been shown to exhibit several useful real world properties. We establish asymptotic bounds on the spectra of the adjacency matrix and the normalized Laplacian matrix for these two families of graphs under certain mild conditions. As an application we examine various properties of the stochastic Kronecker graph and the multiplicative attribute graph, including the diameter, clustering coefficient, chromatic number, and bounds on low-congestion routing.
Hemispheric dominance and normal color memory.

Abstract Hemispheric asymmetry in memory for color was investigated using the tachistoscopic laterality paradigm with 120 normal familial righthanded males. Experiment I employed hue and saturation discrimination tasks. A significant RVF superiority was found for both tasks with retention intervals of 1·6 and 10 sec. Experiment II used a finer saturation discrimination task and again a significant RVF superiority was produced. In both experiments the availability of color names which could have been used to mediate the retention intervals was demonstrated. For Experiments III and IV more complex color discrimination tasks designed in an effort to preclude verbal mediation resulted in an elimination of visual field differences.
Comparison of three Doppler ultrasound methods in the prediction of pulmonary artery pressure

Pulmonary artery pressure was noninvasively estimated by three Doppler echocardiography methods in 50 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. First, a systolic transtricuspid gradient was calculated from Doppler-detected tricuspid regurgitation; clinical jugular venous pressure or a fixed value of 14 mm Hg was added to yield systolic pulmonary artery pressure. Second, acceleration time from pulmonary flow analysis was used in a regression equation to derive mean pulmonary artery pressure. Third, right ventricular isovolumic relaxation time was calculated from Doppler-determined pulmonary valve closure and tricuspid valve opening; systolic pulmonary artery pressure was then derived from a nomogram. In 48 patients (96%) at least one of the methods could be employed. A tricuspid pressure gradient, obtained in 36 patients (72%), provided reliable prediction of systolic pulmonary artery pressure. The prediction was superior when 14 mm Hg rather than estimated jugular venous pressure was used to account for right atrial pressure. In 44 patients (88%), pulmonary flow was analyzed. Prediction of mean pulmonary artery pressure was unsatisfactory (r = 0.65) but improved (r = 0.85) when only patients with a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats/min were considered. The effect of correcting pulmonary flow indexes for heart rate was examined by correlating different flow indexes before and after correction for heart rate. There was a good correlation between corrected acceleration time and either systolic (r = −0.85) or mean (r = −0.83) pulmonary artery pressure. Because of a high incidence of arrhythmia, right ventricular relaxation time could be determined in only 11 patients (22%). Noninvasive prediction of pulmonary artery pressure is feasible in most patients. Among the three methods, tricuspid gradient measurement seems to be the most useful and practical. Heart rate correction may improve the accuracy of using acceleration time in predicting pulmonary artery pressure; Doppler-determined right ventricular relaxation time seems to be of limited usefulness.
Radio emission from nova shells.

This paper presents data from multifrequency radio observations of the novae HR Del 1967 and FH Ser 1970 made from June 1970 to December 1978 and of V1500 Cyg 1975 made from September 1975 to December 1978. The data for FH Ser and V1500 Cyg constitute a complete history of the important phases of their radio 'light' curves, while all but the rising portion of the optically thick phase of an expanding nova shell is present for HR Del. A simple solution of the spherically symmetric equations of mass and momentum conservation for an isothermal gas, for which pressure gradients are effectively decoupled from the dynamics, is shown to fit the radio data for all three novae quite well. The main features of this model are strong density and velocity gradients that lead to long periods when the 'observable' shell evolves from an optically thick 'disk' to a completely optically thin shell.
Enhanced Light Scattering from Hollow Polycrystalline TiO2 Particles in a Cellulose Matrix

Hollow and core-shell rutile particles were synthesized, and their opacifying power in a cellulose matrix was compared with that of commercial solid rutile particles. It was found that the opacifying power of hollow polycrystalline rutile particles was superior to that of a commercial rutile pigment in a highly pressed bleached fiber matrix, depending on cavity size, whereas the opacifying power of silica-rutile titania core-shell particles was found comparable to that of commercial rutile at constant titania loading. The light scattering efficiency of titania core-shell particles was also shown to be dependent on the light scattering efficiency of the core material. The light scattering efficiency of the polycrystalline silica cores was found to depend on calcination temperature and crystal structure.
Detection of bulky DNA lesions: DDB2 at the interface of chromatin and DNA repair in eukaryotes

Bulky DNA damage is corrected by the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. Although the core biochemical mechanism of NER is understood, details including lesion recognition and repair in the context of chromatin remain to be elucidated. As more data become available, the complexity of lesion recognition in chromatin is becoming clear. This review will discuss current knowledge of DNA damage recognition in the context of chromatin, with a focus on the roles of chromatin remodeling and the specific lesion recognition protein DDB2 (DNA damage-binding protein 2) in chromatin repair. Additionally, we propose a model that ubiquitination-mediated DDB2 dissociation from chromatin, not its degradation, is important for GG-NER progression.
Interareal synchronization in the visual cortex

The primary visual cortex (V1) is part of a highly interconnected network of cortical areas, hierarchically organized but operating concurrently across hierarchical levels. The high degree of reciprocal interconnection among visual cortical areas provides a framework for their interaction during the performance of visual scene analysis. The functional interdependency of visual cortical areas which develops during scene analysis can be investigated by techniques which measure interareal correlated activity. Evidence from monkeys performing a visual pattern discrimination suggests that synchronization of aperiodic activity from neuronal ensembles in cortical areas at different hierarchical levels is a relevant aspect of visual function. The near-periodic nature of the synchronized response to moving light bars in earlier studies may have been a result of the type of stimulus used. Various models of visual cortex are discussed in which interareal synchronization plays a functional role.
An architecture for the efficient combining of linearly ordered lists

Many applications require the combining of two or more linearly ordered lists according to a given set of rules. Probably the best example of this is the combining of index lists in an inverted file information retrieval system according to a Boolean expression specified by the system user. If the user specifies the AND of two terms, the intersection of the two lists associated with the terms if formed; if OR, the union is formed; and if he specifies A AND NOT B the result will be those entries in list A which are not also in list B.
Folding kinetics of a fluorescent variant of monomeric lambda repressor.

A tryptophan-containing variant of monomeric λ repressor has been made, and its folding kinetics were analyzed at 20 °C using fluorescence stopped-flow and dynamic NMR. Equilibrium denaturation curves obtained by circular dichroism, fluorescence, and NMR are superimposable. Stopped-flow analysis indicates that in the absence of denaturants the folding reaction is complete within the dead-time of the experiment. Within higher denaturant conditions, where the folding rate is slower, NMR and stopped-flow agree on the folding and unfolding rates of the protein. In 3.4 M urea and 1.8 M GdmCl, we show that the variant folds within 2 ms. Extrapolation indicates that the folding time is 20 μs in the absence of denaturants. All folding and unfolding reactions displayed monoexponential kinetics, and no burst-phases were observed. In addition, the thermodynamic parameters ΔG and meq obtained from the kinetic analysis are consistent with the equilibrium experiments. The results support a two-state D↔N folding model.
Statistical Based Estimation of Biporous Evaporator Dryout

Biporous wicks are an effective means for facilitating evaporation in heat pipes used for electronics cooling. They facilitate boiling within the wick by having two distinct size distributions of pores; the smaller pores provide high capillary pressure to pump liquid to the surface while the larger pores maintain high vapor permeability. The wicks investigated in this study were sintered copper biporous material. The authors previously presented a validated statistical model, based on work by Kovalev, which could predict the performance of biporous wicks tested at UCLA with reasonable accuracy [1]. Using this model, the author was able to gain new insight into the effect that the numerical estimate of liquid saturation of the wick has on dry out. The pore size distribution allows the determination of the capillary pressure available inside the wick and the Kovalev model provides the required pressure drop to supply liquid water to the heater surface. This led to a method of predicting dry out by comparing the capillary pressure in the wick to the required pressure drop from the model to estimate when the wick was dried out.When the required pressure drop determined by code exceeds the peak effective capillary pressure provided by the wick, the large pores of the wick are considered to be dry. These values are correlated to the input heat flux to determine what at what input power the wick begins to dry out. While the wick will not fail in this mode, the overall heat transfer coefficient will have peaked. In this work, this method of determining dry out will be validated against wicks tested at UCLA by comparing the input powers at which this dry out phenomenon occurs. Accurate predictions of dry out and the role of the pore size distribution are critical in developing methods to delay dry out of biporous wicks. By comparing the relative dry out points of various wick geometries to each other, augmented wick geometries can be suggested for future work. This modeling tool can lay the foundation for future tailoring of biporous evaporator wicks to specific tasks.© 2013 ASME
Chiral electroweak gauge interactions.

The hypercharge U(1){sub {ital Y}} of the standard electroweak model is split into chiral hypercharges U(1){sub {ital L}}{times}U(1){sub {ital R}}. Under the new gauge symmetry SU(2){sub {ital L}}{times}U(1){sub {ital L}}{times}U(1){sub {ital R}}, quarks and leptons are left-handed doublets transforming only under SU(2){sub {ital L}}{times}U(1){sub {ital L}} and right-handed singlets transforming only under U(1){sub {ital R}}. Consistent with the measurements of the mass of the standard massive neutral boson {ital Z}{sup 0} at the SLAC and CERN colliders and the neutral-current couplings involving neutrino beams and electron beams, the additional massive neutral gauge boson can be as light as a few hundred GeV. The model utilizes the generalized see saw mechanism of Gell-Mann, Ramond, and Slansky to give masses to all the fermions of the theory.
Investigation of drug release from solids*. I. Some factors influencing the dissolution rate

Abstract A method for determining the dissolution rate and the underlying physical‐chemical theories are presented. The velocity constant for the conditons employed in the procedure and the dissolution rate of compressed benzoic acid tablets were determined. In the density range investigated the dissolution rate was essentially independent of the tablet density. When neutral ionic and nonionic organic compounds were employed as additives the dissolution rate was linearly dependent upon the solubility of benzoic acid in the particular solvent system.
Textual case-based reasoning

This commentary provides a definition of textual case-based reasoning (TCBR) and surveys research contributions according to four research questions. We also describe how TCBR can be distinguished from text mining and information retrieval. We conclude with potential directions for TCBR research.
Future of vascular surgery is in the office.

Objective The practice of vascular surgery is under pressure from various specialties and payers. Our group started office-based procedures in May 2007. This article reports our study of the effect of this change on our case volume, office revenue, and the financial impact on the health care system. Methods Between May 1, 2006, and April 30, 2007 (period 1), and between June 1, 2007, and May 31 2008 (period 2), 3041 and 3351 cases, respectively, were performed. In period 1, only venous cases could be done in the office. Before arteriogram, serum levels of urea nitrogen and creatinine were obtained. The number of percutaneous cases done in the hospital and office setting was analyzed, and revenue was calculated based on the 2008 Medicare fee schedule for our region. Amputation and mortality rates at 30 days were documented. Hospital DRG payment schedule was obtained. Results In period 1, 670 (22% of total) percutaneous procedures were performed compared with 1502 (44.8%) in period 2, a twofold increase. In period 1, 1.5% of total cases were done in the office compared with 31% in period 2. There was a fivefold increase in revenue from these procedures. No deaths or amputations occurred as a result of procedures performed in the office. No anesthesiologist's expense and minimal preprocedural expenses were incurred. Total payment by Medicare, DRG payment to the hospital, and the physician component were higher in all the cases. Conclusions A vascular surgery practice can benefit from office-based procedures. Procedures can be done safely. It results in an increase in the number of percutaneous procedures and revenue with a significant savings to the health care system. Surgeons can control their schedule. Every vascular surgeon should consider doing these procedures in office.
Response of a base excited system with Coulomb and viscous friction

Abstract The response of a single degree of freedom spring-mass system with viscous and Coulomb friction, with harmonic base excitation, is determined. Closed form analytical solutions of the equation of motion are found for two cases: (a) continuous motion of the mass and (b) motion of mass with two stops per cycle. Results are presented in non-dimensional form as magnification factors versus frequency ratios as functions of viscous and Coulomb friction parameters.
Critical Race Theory, Hip Hop, and Huck Finn: Narrative Inquiry in a High School English Classroom

This study explores the impact of reading Huckleberry Finn through the lens of critical race theory for both teacher and students in a racially diverse urban high school environment. The teacher/researcher used narrative inquiry and creative non-fiction to examine student language usage, white privilege (including her own), and student reaction to the novel in a collaborative qualitative study. Major findings include distinct differences between students of color and white students in their level of teacher trust and their views on reclamation.
Toxicity, growth, and behavioral effects of an oil extracted from idioblast cells of the avocado fruit on the generalist herbivore beet armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

An oil extracted from idioblast cells in avocado fruit was examined for toxicity, growth inhibition, and behavioral effects on the generalist herbivore Spodoptera exigua (Hubner). In diet incorporation studies, the oil was toxic to both early and late instars. At concentrations of 0.80% or higher, 100% mortality was observed within 7 d. Larval weights of 3rd instars were significantly reduced after feeding for 5 d on a diet containing 0.30% oil as compared with a control diet. At lower concentrations of 0.05,0.10, and 0.20%, no significant differences in developmental times from neonate to adult emergence were observed. The oil also acted as a feeding deterrent. Choice tests initiated with neonates showed a significantly greater proportion of larvae on control diet rather than oil-containing diet for concentrations of 0.10% or greater. Similar results were obtained for choice tests initiated with 3rd instars for oil concentrations of 0.20% or greater. In these tests the larvae consumed significantly more control diet than treated diet. The potential of the oil for development as a pest management tool is discussed.
Zooplankton avoidance and reduced grazing responses to Gymnodinium splendens (Dinophyceae)1

A dense subsurface layer of Gymnodinium splendens, a feature often observed in coastal waters off southern California, was actively avoided by macrozooplankton. Filtration rates, measured by uptake of tracer amounts of radiocarbon-labeled diatoms, and ingestion rates, measured by gut fullness, of some herbivorous species were significantly reduced within the layer. These behavioral responses may help explain the formation and persistence of dinoflagellate blooms such as red tides in coastal waters often dominated by diatoms with higher maximum growth rates.
SIGNAL DETECTION ANALYSIS OF DEPRIVATION-INCENTIVE RELATIONS WITH RATS

The problem of deprivation-incentive relationships is considered in terms of the theory of signal detection. Different concentration sucrose incentives are conceptualized as signal and noise and food deprivation is considered to lower the response criterion. It was predicted that incentives of relatively small concentration difference would not produce interactions (even though a main effect of incentive were present) but that widely separated concentrations would. This was given some support in two experiments, one with bar pressing on concurrent schedules and one with a double-alley straight runway.
Timing and duration of use of GnRH antagonist down-regulation for IVF/ICSI cycles have no impact on oocyte quality or pregnancy outcomes

Purpose To evaluate whether oocyte quality, implantation and pregnancy outcomes in in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are related to the duration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-antagonist use or the timing of its initiation.
Vertigo Ergo Sum: Kant, his Jewish “Students” and the Origins of Romanticism

For the early German Romantics in the 1790s, no thinker arguably had a greater influence on the genesis of their thought than Immanuel Kant. The work Kant produced between 1781 (the publication of The Critique of Pure Reason) and 1790 (the publication of The Critique of Judgment) underlies the basic Romantic understanding of cognition, ethics and aesthetics in Germany. An overlooked aspect of the development in Kant's thought, as well as a surreptitious influence on the origins of early German Romanticism, is Kant's fraught relationship with his Jewish students and acquaintances throughout the 1780s. This is made most explicit in his relationship to Markus Herz – a close confidant to Kant throughout the 1770s, the official respondent to Kant's inaugural dissertation as well as the director of the Jewish hospital in Berlin. Herz publishes in 1787 Versuch uber den Schwindel [On Vertigo], a book that Herz openly dedicates to Kant and claims is directly influenced by Kant's teaching. Although Kant dismissed t...
Ground-Water Quality Modelinga

A generalized lumped parameter ground-water model is developed based on simultaneous water and solute balances for a phreatic aquifer. The basis for the lumped parameter approach is established by comparison with theoretical analyses of water and solute dynamics in a distributed aquifer model. The basic behavior of the model is characterized by two response times, one associated with the hydraulics and the other with the solute. The model is applied to simulate the impact of highway deicing salts on ground-water quality in eastern Massachusetts. The results, obtained by digital computer simulation, are found to be in reasonable agreement with observed trends over a 15-year period. The effects of various highway deicing alternatives are simulated and the dependence on the aquifer parameters is demonstrated. The application of this basin-wide modeling technique to the case of highway deicing salts demonstrates that this procedure can provide a reasonable basis for long-term evaluation of ground-water pollution. With adequate data on the inputs and aquifer parameters for a given locality, this general technique can be used to guide regulatory procedures and land use decisions which can be applied at the local, regional or State level to protect ground-water resources.
H+-Stimulated release of prostaglandin E2 and cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphoric acid and their relationship to bone resorption in neonatal mouse calvaria cultures

Abstract The addition of protons to the medium of neonatal mouse calvaria cultures stimulated bone resorption and release of calcium into the medium. In addition, added protons significantly increased the release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphoric acid (cAMP) from the bones. Indomethacin significantly inhibited the release of calcium, PGE2 and cAMP from proton-treated cultures. The positive control, parathyroid hormone (PTH)-treated cultures, also gave rise to bone resorption and calcium release into the medium. However, unlike the addition of protons, the addition of PTH did not stimulate PGE2 release nor did indomethacin inhibit calcium release from PTH-treated cultures. In addition, indomethacin only slightly inhibited cAMP release from PTH-treated cultures, as compared to the marked inhibition by indomethacin of cAMP release from proton-treated cultures. These findings indicate that bone resorption due to added protons is dependent on both PGE2 and cAMP production, whereas bone resorption due to PTH only involves cAMP production.
Antioxidant proteins and reactive oxygen species are decreased in a murine epidermal side population with stem cell-like characteristics

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants are essential to maintain a redox balance within tissues and cells. Intracellular ROS regulate key cellular functions such as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis through cellular signaling, and response to injury. The redox environment is particularly important for stem/progenitor cells, as their self-renewal and differentiation has been shown to be redox sensitive. However, not much is known about ROS and antioxidant protein function in freshly isolated keratinocytes, notably the different keratinocyte subpopulations. Immunostaining of neonatal cutaneous sections revealed that antioxidant enzymes [catalase, SOD2, gluthatione peroxidase-1 (GPx)] and ROS are localized predominantly to the epidermis. We isolated keratinocyte subpopulations and found lower levels of SOD2, catalase and GPx, as well as decreased SOD and catalase activity in an epidermal side population with stem cell-like characteristics (EpSPs) compared to more differentiated (Non-SP) keratinocytes. EpSPs also exhibited less mitochondrial area, fewer peroxisomes and produced lower levels of ROS than Non-SPs. Finally, EpSPs were more resistant to UV radiation than their progeny. Together, our data indicate ROS and antioxidant levels are decreased in stem-like EpSPs.
Bundle min-hashing for logo recognition

We present a scalable logo recognition technique based on feature bundling. Individual local features are aggregated with features from their spatial neighborhood into bundles. These bundles carry more information about the image content than single visual words. The recognition of logos in novel images is then performed by querying a database of reference images.We further propose a novel WGC-constrained RANSAC and a technique that boosts recall for object retrieval by synthesizing images from original query or reference images. We demonstrate the benefits of these techniques for both small object retrieval and logo recognition. Our logo recognition system clearly outperforms the current state-of-the-art with a recall of 83% at a precision of 99%.
Authority in Science and Technology Policy

Many persistent issues in science and technology policy derive from confusion about the boundaries of internal and external authority. One of the most important questions within science and technology policy is how to balance the creative energy of individual scientists with institutional needs, the requirements of research sponsors, and their own professional norms.
The evaluation of corrective reconstruction method for reduced acquisition time and various anatomies of perfusion defect using channelized hotelling observer for myocardial perfusion SPECT

We evaluated the effect of conventional and corrective image reconstruction methods on reduced acquisition time for detecting a myocardial perfusion (MP) defect in MP SPECT using the Channelized Hotelling Observer (CHO). Using the 4D Extended Cardiac-Torso (XCAT) phantom, we simulated realistic transmural and endocardial MP defects in various location and size. Realistic Tc-99m Sestamibi MP projection data were generated using an analytical projector that included the effects of attenuation (A), collimator-detector response (D) and scatter (S) for various count levels simulating different acquisition times. They were reconstructed using the 3D FBP without correction and a 3D OS-EM method with ADS correction followed by a smoothing filter with various cut-off frequencies. The CHO followed by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) methodology was applied to the reconstructed images to evaluate the detectability of a MP defect in each method for different defect anatomies and count levels. Areas under the ROC curve (AUC) were computed to assess the changes in the MP defect detection. The results showed that the 3D OS-EM with ADS corrections showed significantly less changes in AUC value and gave overall higher AUC values than FBP at all cut-off frequencies of the post smoothing filter, count levels and MP defect sizes. The difference in AUC increased towards less smoothed images where the 3D OS-EM with correction was able to provide similar AUC values with 20–40% reduction in acquisition time compared to FBP. The AUC values for smaller MP defects were lower for both reconstruction methods with smaller differences. We concluded that the 3D OS-EM with ADS corrections provides higher performance in the MP defect detection task. It allows increased reduction of acquisition time without loss of MP defect detection in MP SPECT compared to the conventional FBP method especially towards less smoothed images.
Impingement-Current-Erosion Characteristics of Accelerator Grids on Two-Grid Ion Thrusters

Accelerator grid sputter erosion resulting from charge-exchange-ion impingement is considered to be a primary cause of failure for electrostatic ion thrusters. An experimental method was developed and implemented to measure erosion characteristics of ion-thruster accel-grids for two-grid systems as a function of beam current, accel-grid potential, and facility background pressure. Intricate accelerator grid erosion patterns, that are typically produced in a short time (a few hours), are shown. Accelerator grid volumetric and depth-erosion rates are calculated from these erosion patterns and reported for each of the parameters investigated. A simple theoretical volumetric erosion model yields results that are compared to experimental findings. Results from the model and experiments agree to within 10%, thereby verifying the testing technique. In general, the local distribution of erosion is concentrated in pits between three adjacent holes and trenches that join pits. The shapes of the pits and trenches are shown to be dependent upon operating conditions. Increases in beam current and the accel-grid voltage magnitude lead to deeper pits and trenches. Competing effects cause complex changes in depth-erosion rates as background pressure is increased. Shape factors that describe pits and trenches (i.e. ratio of the average erosion width to the maximum possible width) are also affected in relatively complex ways by changes in beam current, ac tel-grid voltage magnitude, and background pressure. In all cases, however, gross volumetric erosion rates agree with theoretical predictions.
Understanding the interpersonal impact of trauma: Contributions of PTSD and depression

To build on the growing literature on interpersonal relationships among individuals with PTSD, this study examined the separate influences of PTSD symptoms and depression on functioning with friends, romantic partners, and family. To examine the influence of measurement, both interviewer-rated assessment of interpersonal functioning and self-reported assessment of perceived social support were included. The sample included 109 community members who sought help for mental health problems in the aftermath of a serious motor vehicle accident. Building on previous research, hierarchical regression models were used to examine the impact of re-experiencing, avoidance, emotional numbing, and hyperarousal on relationship functioning, followed by depression. Results suggest that assessment modality makes a difference in understanding factors contributing to interpersonal strain. When assessed by an interviewer, depression seems to play a larger role in interpersonal strain, relative to PTSD symptoms. When assessed via self-reported perceived social support, weaker associations were observed, which highlighted the role of emotional numbing. Results are discussed in light of the possible role that PTSD comorbidity with depression plays in interpersonal functioning following a traumatic event, with implications for future research.
Maternal depressive symptomatology and child maladjustment: A comparison of three process models

This study compared three models to investigate the relation between maternal depressive symptomatology and child maladjustment in a community sample of 96 motherchild dyads. The models agree that symptomatic mothers report higher levels of child maladjustment and behave in a more aversive and controlling manner toward their children than asymptomatic mothers, but make different predictions about the manner in which children behave toward symptomatic mothers. Model 1 asserts that children generally display lower levels of compliance, and higher levels of aversiveness, model 2 that they do not differ, in their behavior when compared to children of asymptomatic mothers, and model 3 that they generally display higher levels of compliance, and lower levels of aversiveness. Home observation data generally supported model 2, but showed that socioeconomic disadvantage played a major role in the association between maternal depressive symptomatology and child maladjustment. The findings call for an expanded model that includes disadvantage as a correlate of both maternal depressive symptoms and, to a lesser extent, child maladjustment. Implications for intervention are briefly discussed.
A rapid fluorescent solid-phase method for detecting antibodies against milk proteins and gliadin in different immunoglobulin classes

Mit Hilfe einer neu entwickelten Methode (Bindung von Antigen an Agarose-Partikel, AK-Nachweis mit fluoreszierenden Anti-human-Ig-Seren) gelingt es auf einfache Art, Serum-AK gegen Gliadin und Milchproteine bei Coeliakiepatienten in verschiedenen Immunglobulinklassen nachzuweisen.
PREDICTING FRESHMAN PERSISTENCE AND VOLUNTARY DROPOUT DECISIONS" A Replication

This paper describes the results of a replication of a study testing the predictive validity of a 34-item instrument designed to assess the fundamental constructs of Tinto's model of college student attrition. A design, variables, and analytical procedures virtually identical to those of the original study (done at a large independent university) were used, and this research was conducted at a large public university. The five-factor structure, found in the original study to underlie the 34 items, was replicated almost exactly. As in the earlier work, the Institutional and Goal Commitment Scale was a significant predictor of attendance behavior even after controlling for a variety of students' precollege characteristics. Potential institutional differences in faculty members' influence on retention were identified. A cross-validation classification procedure suggests the five factors are reasonably stable predictors of attrition.
A generalization of the growth curve model which allows missing data

Abstract This study presents methods for estimating and testing hypotheses about linear functions of the unknown parameters in a generalization of the growth curve model which allows missing data. The estimators proposed are best asymptotically normal (BAN). A testing method for large samples is described which uses a test criterion given in general form by Wald. The asymptotic null distribution of the test statistic is a central chi-square variable. A BAN estimator of a linear vector function of the unknown parameters of the expectation model and consistent estimators of the variance-covariance parameters are required for computation.
Transmembrane voltage regulates binding of annexin V and lactadherin to cells with exposed phosphatidylserine

Cells expose phosphatidylserine during apoptosis. The voltage across the plasma membrane also decreases or disappears during apoptosis, but the physiological significance of this is unknown. Here we show that transmembrane potential regulates membrane binding of two unrelated proteins that recognize exposed phosphatidylserine on apoptotic cells. In Jurkat T leukemia cells and K562 promyelocytic leukemia cells undergoing apoptosis, extracellular binding of annexin V was increased by decreasing membrane potential in a dose-dependent manner. Studies with phospholipid vesicles showed that the effect was mediated via an increase in binding affinity. The effect was independent of the apoptotic stimulus. The same phenomenon occurred with lactadherin, a structurally unrelated protein that also binds to apoptotic cells via phosphatidylserine and is essential for in vivo clearance of dying cells. Alterations in membrane potential regulate the binding of annexin V and lactadherin to cell membranes, and may also influence the membrane binding of other classes of phosphatidylserine-binding proteins.
Mechanics of Deformation-Induced Degradation of Poly(L-Lactic Acid) Endovascular Stents

Fully biodegradable polymeric stents are thought to be the third revolution in minimally invasive cardiology. After the breakthrough development of percutaneous balloon angioplasty and the dawn of the drug eluting stents era, increasing interest is being brought to the concept of temporary implants that fulfill the mission and step away.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Expansion of a function about a displaced center

A simpler, more general version of a formula given by Sharma for the expansion of functions of the form, $F(\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{\mathrm{r}})=f(r){Y}_{l}^{m}(\ensuremath{\theta}, \ensuremath{\varphi})$, in terms of spherical harmonics and radial functions at a new origin, is derived from an earlier treatment of the expansion problem based on Fourier transforms.
Perceptions of a Continuing Professional Development Portfolio Model to Enhance the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

Objective:To obtain feedback about the potential usefulness of a continuing professional development (CPD) portfolio for enhancing a faculty or practitioner’s scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL).Method:A CPD portfolio approach to the SoTL was distributed in advance to registrants of the 2011 Annual AACP Teacher’s Seminar. In an interactive workshop, faculty facilitators described a model for a CPD process applied to the development of an individual’s SoTL. During the workshop, participants were asked to complete the initial sections of the portfolio to develop a personal plan for success in the SoTL. Post workshop, an evaluation form was distributed to the participants to obtain feedback about the CPD approach. Completed evaluation forms were collected, collated, and summarized.Results:A total of 53 (14.1%) workshop participants completed the evaluation form of the 375 attendees. In all, 25 assistant professors, 14 associate professors, 4 full professors, 10 residents/students, 22 clinical, and 2 ...