cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transforming Korea into a multicultural society: reception of multiculturalism discourse and its discursive disposition in Korea

Since 2005, multicultural-based words such as multicultural society, multicultural family, and multicultural education have grown explosively in Korean society. Due to this social trend, adoption of the term multiculturalism has become a trend within the government and press to explain current social changes in Korea. Nevertheless, there have been few efforts to tackle multiculturalism as a crucial political project or a considerable academic theme of discussion. Thus, this study aims to examine how multiculturalism discourse in Korea has been received and draws its discursive disposition. It argues how the media, especially the press, incorporate other crucial issues such as ‘diversity’, ‘human rights’, and ‘minority politics’ in terms of multiculturalism. To analyse, a total of 275 journal articles were selected and scrutinised. This study contextualises Korean multiculturalism and suggests a meta-picture of the discursive economy of multiculturalism in Korea.
Legal Supports for Problem-Solving Systems

Special education services are shaped by legal parameters developed over the past 30 years. Many of those services give priority to process and compliance rather than to focusing on student outcomes. Today, reform initiatives to special education programs are well underway, many of them shaped by fundamental changes occurring in local education agency practice. This article provides an overview of how federal special education law supports many of the reform efforts underway in many school districts throughout the country. It reviews important legislative changes to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1997 and 2004, including the section of IDEA 2004 that permits the use of response to intervention as a basis for determining special education eligibility.
Dose and Time Dependent Effects of Ethanol on Antioxidant System in Rat Testes

This study was designed to investigate the dose as well as time dependent effects of ethanol on testicular antioxidant defense system in rats. Male Fischer 344 rats were administered ethanol at a dose of 2, 4, and 6 gm/kg orally and control received equal volume of saline and sacrificed 1 h after ethanol ingestion. For time course study, animals were administered ethanol 4 g/kg orally and sacrificed at 1.5, 2, 4, and 6 h after ethanol ingestion. Testicular ethanol concentration increased with increasing doses of ethanol. Copper zinc-superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) activity significantly decreased in the testes of rats treated with increasing doses of ethanol whereas manganese-superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) activity significantly increased in a dose dependent manner (181, 186, and 195% of control, respectively). Testicular glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels did not significantly alter with increasing doses of ethanol one hour after ethanol ingestion. Ethanol concentration decreased in the testes with an increase in time after ethanol ingestion. Testicular CuZn-SOD activity significantly decreased whereas Mn-SOD activity increased with an increase in time after ethanol ingestion. Testicular catalase (CAT) activity significantly decreased at 2 h postethanol ingestion. Testicular MDA levels significantly increased at 4 and 6 h after ethanol ingestion indicating that end product of lipid peroxidation. MDA, takes considerable time to form in the testes. A significant decrease in the ratios of CAT/Mn-SOD and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)/Mn-SOD in the testes of rat suggests the ability of mitochondria to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). It is suggested that antioxidant enzyme ratios may be used as an important parameter to determine ethanol induced oxidative stress in the tissues.
The 1976 Western Workshop for Language Teachers: A Report to the Profession1

This report describes the rationale, approach, and design of a four-week workshop conducted at Western Washington State College in July-August 1976. The fifty-six participants, teachers of French, German, and Spanish from Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, were selected with the help of the state foreign language associations of these three states. Daily activities included a language class, a course in cross-cultural communication, and instruction in ‘non-traditional’ methods of language teaching (including adaptations of Counseling Learning and the Silent Way). Participants bad access to numerous campus resources which are described in the report. In an attempt to multiply the benefits derived from this workshop, twenty-five school administrators were invited to participate with the language teachers in a two-day mini-workshop as part of the project.
Technique for measuring the dielectric constant of thin materials

A practical technique for measuring the dielectric constant of vegetation leaves and similarly thin materials is presented. A rectangular section of the leaf is placed in the transverse plane in rectangular waveguide, and the magnitude and phase of the reflection coefficient are measured over the desired frequency band using a vector network analyzer. By treating the leaf as an infinitesimally thin resistive sheet, an explicit expression for its dielectric constant is obtained in terms of the reflection coefficient. Because of the thin-sheet approximation, however, this approach is valid only at frequencies below 1.5 GHz. To extend the technique to higher frequencies, higher-order approximations are derived and their accuracies are compared to the exact dielectric-slab solution. For a material whose thickness is 0.5 mm or less, the proposed technique was found to provide accurate values of its dielectric constant up to frequencies of 12 GHz or higher. >
Functional approach to site-by-site catheter mapping of ventricular reentry circuits in chronic infarctions.

bright. Because the lights are dimmed to some extent in many laboratories, bright signals on a black background seem much easier on eye than dark signals on a white background. Colors must be selected so that they work well together and allow information to be read from various points in the room. Heart rate and blood pressure displays must be large, for good visibility at a distance. Signals must be displayed with a pixel thickness that makes them highly visible from across the room. Conclusion
PREVALENCE OF PARELAPHOSTRONGYLUS TENUIS IN WHITE-TAILED DEER IN NORTHERN NEW YORK

The prevalence and distribution of “brainworm” (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis) were examined in northern New York (USA) from 1986 to 1989. Sixty nine (46%) of 151 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) heads examined, contained adult P. tenuis. The proportion of infected individuals was not significantly different between males and females. Prevalence was significantly greater in the adult age class as compared to the juvenile age class (P < 0.01). Deer pellet samples were examined for prevalence of P. tenuis-like larvae. Pellet samples in New York had an overall prevalence of 60%. The effects of precipitation and host density on prevalence of P. tenuis in deer was not significant.
A closer look at texture metrics

This poster presents some insights into perceptual metrics for texture pattern categorization. An increasing number of researchers in the field of visualization are trying to exploit texture patterns to overcome the innate limitations of three dimensional color spaces. However, a comprehensive understanding of the most important features by which people group textures is essential for effective texture utilization in visualization. There have been a number of studies aiming at finding the perceptual dimensions of the texture. Among the pioneering works is Tamura et. al. research which identified contrast, coarseness and directionality as the most significant texture dimensions. Liu and Picard presented an image model based on 2-D Wold decomposition of homogeneous random fields and defined their texture metrics as: periodicity, directionality and randomness. Ware and Knight argue that the primary texture dimensions in the context of human perception are orientation, size and contrast. In two separate studies, Rao and Lohse identified repetitive vs. non-repetitive, high contrast and non-directional vs. low-contrast and directional; granular, coarse and low-complexity vs. non-granular fine and high-complexity as the three most significant dimensions of texture. In this poster we discuss the results of our three recent studies intended to gain greater insight into perceptual texture metrics. The experiments investigate the role that orientation, scale and contrast play in characterizing a texture pattern. We particularly wanted to know how subjects would react to differences of scale, rotation, and contrast of each texture and how these results can be reconsolidated with Ware and Knights texture features: scale, orientation and contrast. Our hypothesis was that orientation, scale, and contrast are useful manipulable features within a particular single texture pattern but that between different texture patterns it is other visual features that we are at times relying on to group/classify the textures. In particular we hypothesized that human subjects categorized textures based on scale, orientation, and contrast metrics more often when under the time constraint but other metrics were involved when they had enough time to process the similarity between the contours and forms of the textures. In our first study, for each texture that Rao and Lohse used, we added versions that differed from the original in scale, contrast, and rotation. Subjects who participated in the study were asked to cluster textures together, thus replicating Rao and Lohse's study. We also designed a computerized experiment to determine if different texture metrics were used under different time constraints. After showing four images for a period of time, subjects were asked to group the images either horizontally or vertically into two groups of two. The duration in which the subjects viewed the images was one second in one experiment, and without limit in another. Anova analysis was applied to the results of the computerized experiment. The result confirmed our hypothesis.
Insight on the Molecular Envelope of Lipid-Bound Apolipoprotein E from Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Although a high-resolution X-ray structure for the N-terminal domain of apolipoprotein E (apoE) in the lipid-free state has been solved, our knowledge of the structure of full-length apoE in a lipid-bound state is limited to an X-ray model fitting a molecular envelope at 10-A resolution. To add molecular detail to the molecular envelope, we used cysteine mutagenesis to incorporate spin labels for analysis with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Twelve cysteine residues were introduced singly and in pairs at unique locations throughout apoE4 and labeled with an EPR spin probe. The labeled apoE4 was combined with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, the particles were purified, and spectra were determined for 24 combinations (single and double) of the cysteine mutants. Data on the conformation, mobility, distance, and surface exposure of regions revealed by the cysteine probes were modeled into the molecular envelope of apoE bound to dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine that had been determined by X-ray analysis. This EPR model of apoE in a native lipid-bound state validates the structural model derived from X-ray analysis and provides additional insight into apoE structure-function relationships.
Review of Comparative Health Systems: Global Perspectives for the 21st Century

With its well-conceived approach, Comparative Health Systems: Global Perspectives for the 21st Century analyses the similarities and differences of healthcare systems in 17 countries.
Solar activity and the corona

This review puts together what we have learned about coronal structures and phenomenology to synthesize a physical picture of the corona as a voluminous, thermally and electrically highly-conducting atmosphere responding dynamically to the injection of magnetic flux from below. The synthesis describes complementary roles played by the magnetic heating of the corona, the different types of flares, and the coronal mass ejections as physical processes by which magnetic flux and helicity make their way from below the photosphere into the corona, and, ultimately, into interplanetary space. In these processes, a physically meaningful interplay among dissipative magnetohydrodynamic turbulence, ideal ordered flows, and magnetic helicity determines how and when the rich variety of relatively long-lived coronal structures, spawned by the emerged magnetic flux, will evolve quasi-steadily or erupt with the impressive energies characteristic of flares and coronal mass ejections. Central to this picture is the suggestion, based on recent theoretical and observational works, that the the emerged flux may take the form of a twisted flux rope residing principally in the corona. Such a flux rope is identified with the low-density cavity at the base of a coronal helmet, often but not always encasing a quiescent prominence. The flux rope may either be bodily transported into the corona from below the photosphere, or reform out of a state of flaring turbulence under some suitable constraint of magnetic-helicity conservation. The appeal of this synthesis is its physical simplicity and the manner it relates a large set of diverse phenomena into a self-consistent whole. The implications of this view point are discussed. The topics covered are: the large-scale corona; helmet streamers; quiescent prominences; coronal mass ejections; flares and heating; magnetic reconnection and magnetic helicity; and, the hydromagnetics of magnetic flux emergence.
Assessment of Social Competence and Social Networks for Transition

Assessment of social competence and social networks is a critical component of transition planning. This article addresses various methods of assessment and support of social competence in school a...
Scattering by a conformal array of metallic patches

The scattering characteristics of metallic patches arranged on a parabolic cylindrical surface are investigated. The induced surface current on each patch is identified as the current induced on the center patch of a planar array, which is tangent to the parabolic cylindrical surface at the patch. Each of these planar-array problems is solved by the spectral-Galerkin method. The scattering pattern from the conformal array is obtained by superposition.
Muon bonding sites in rare earth orthoferrites

A muon site search has been performed for the RFeO3 series based on a calculation of dipole fields and assumptions that a μ-0 bond is formed at identical sites in each sample. The site previously identified by Holzschuh et al. /1/ has been verified and additional sites located which together explain all the observed μSR frequencies in the orthoferrites. Effects due to muon motion and covalent contributions to the internal fields are briefly discussed.
Inhibition of yeast Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase by common amino acids and the regulation of proline catabolism

Abstract A yeast glutamate auxotroph (glt1 − 1), blocked in the tricarboxylic acid cycle at aconitase, is shown to possess catabolic pathways to glutamate from proline, arginine and glutamine, and grows on any of these amino acids in a minimal medium. This mutant does not, however, grow on these amino acids in a medium containing the full complement of common amino acids minus glutamate. The mechanism of this growth failure involves partial inhibition of the catabolic routes to glutamate by more than half the common amino acids. In the case of proline catabolism, this inhibition is localized principally at the enzyme Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate: NAD(P)+ oxidoreductase by in vitro studies. Similar results with this enzyme prepared both from yeast and from beef kidney mitochondria suggest that the inhibition observed may be the basis of a regulatory mechanism of general significance.
The effects of various external cations and sodium transport inhibitors on sodium uptake by the sailfin molly,Poecilia latipinna, acclimated to sea water

The effects of various external cations and sodium transport inhibitors on sodium uptake by the sailfin molly,Poecilia latipinna, acclimated to sea water was investigated. While the injection of acetazolamide had no effect on sodium uptake, addition of NH4+, H+, K+ or amiloride to the external solution significantly inhibited the uptake of sodium by the fish. These data support the proposition that sea water acclimatedP. latipinna possess the Na+/H+ and/or Na+/NH4+ exchange mechanisms which are normally thought to be present only in fresh water acclimated fish.
THE SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP: AN IDENTIFICATION OF THE PRIMARY ELEMENTS IN THE RELATIONSHIP AND AN APPLICATION OF TWO THEORIES OF ETHICAL RELATIONSHIPS

Many authors on the subject of marriage and family therapy supervision point to the fact that the quality of relationship between supervisor and supervisee is crucial to the process. However, little has been written about the nature of this relationship. This article identifies key elements in the relationship and introduces a theoretical framework for understanding those elements based on the principles of ethical relationships proposed by Ivan Boszormenyi-Nagy and Nell Noddings.
Influence of the support on the thermal stability of surface-bound [WCp(CO)3]−: Implications for catalyst design

Abstract Surface-bound {Mn+}[WCp(CO)3]− complexes on γ-Al2O3 and K-modified Al2O3 were studied by temperature-programmed decomposition (TPDE) andin situ infrared spectroscopy. [WCp(CO)3]− on γ-Al2O3 is adsorbed at Lewis acid centers via two isobridging carbonyl ligands, and [WCp(CO)3]− on K/Al2O3 is ion paired with {K+} ions via a single isocarbonyl. On γ-Al2O3, the strong ion-pairing interaction leads to labilization of CO and low-temperature decomposition. Activation of [WCp(CO)3]− on γ-Al2O3 at 400 °C in flowing He produces stable, highly active catalysts for propene metathesis. Catalysts derived from [WCp(CO)3]− on γ-Al2O3 have maximum activity at 220 °C and exhibit reversible deactivation at higher temperatures. Catalysts derived from [WCp(CO)3]− on K-modified Al2O3 are less active and less stable, suggesting that the Lewis acid centers are an integral component of the sites responsible for metathesis activity.
Treatment-Resistant Depression in Late Life

Depression is the most prevalent functional psychiatric disorder in late life. It is associated with a high risk of mortality from comorbid medical illness and from suicide. Successful antidepressant treatment is one of the most effective ways to reduce disability, prevent morbidity, and improve quality of life in an older depressed patient. Treatment-resistant depression is a common clinical problem, reported to affect up to one-third of older depressed patients. However, published data on this clinically important topic are sparse. Available data and clinical experience indicate that many depressed patients labeled as "treatment resistant" or even "treatment refractory" are so labeled because of variables involving the diagnostic or treatment process, rather than because they suffer from a depression that is truly unresponsive to treatment. Unidentified comorbid medical or psychiatric conditions and misdiagnosis often contribute to treatment resistance. Atypical depressive symptoms, such as somatic and cognitive symptoms, and comorbid medical conditions that can themselves produce depressive symptoms often make it difficult to accurately assess antidepressant response in this age group. This often leads to inadequate pharmacotherapy, another major factor contributing to apparent treatment resistance. In older patients, as in younger patients, the selection of the right antidepressant, the right dose, and the right treatment duration constitute the treatment variables essential in ensuring optimal therapeutic response. Approach to treatment-resistant depression in the elderly involves reconsideration of the diagnosis and use of alternate therapeutic measures in a systematic way, including switching to another agent, combination therapy, and electroconvulsive therapy.
Kinetics of Colorado oil shale pyrolysis in a fluidized-bed reactor

Abstract Previous hydrocarbon evolution data were reanalysed to determine improved rate expressions for oil generation from Colorado oil shale under rapid pyrolysis conditions. Contributions from low-molecular-weight gases were subtracted from flame-ionization detector data to obtain the rate of oil generation alone. Equally good fits to the data were obtained using two parallel first-order reactions or a single reaction with an effective reaction order of 1.51. The latter expression was easier to incorporate into global process models. The rate expressions were independent of shale source (Anvil Points or Tract C-a) and particle size (0.5–2.4 mm). The kinetic data were consistent with the previous conclusion that the small incremental oil yield possible for fluidized-bed pyrolysis requires a longer residence time than that estimated by kinetic expressions derived from slow-heating data.
Differential transmission measurement of phonon bottleneck in self-assembled quantum dot intersubband relaxation

Abstract Time-resolved measurements of self-assembled In 0.4 Ga 0.6 As quantum dots indicate a phonon bottleneck between the electronic levels. The bottleneck becomes observable in a capture experiment, where fast relaxation processes are removed at low carrier densities and nongeminate capture of carriers is allowed. Carrier-density-dependent measurements confirm nongeminate capture. We perform a Monte Carlo simulation based on a random carrier capture model to explain the bottleneck signal.
Digital crossbar switch using nonlinear optical ring resonator

Optical elements are preferred to electronic ones for military computing and communications to reduce vulnerability to electromagnetic pulses from nuclear explosion, electromagnetic bombs or lightning. Equations are derived for an optical micro ring resonator and for a nonlinear ring resonator that uses Kerr material so that the resonant frequency changes with light intensity in the ring. The switch can be modulated at faster than 10 Gbps for compatibility with electronic switches and equipment. A two-by-two switch is described based on the nonlinear ring resonator. A Benes network is constructed using the two-by-two switches. This allows full permutations of the inputs by means of an algorithm for setting the switches. Several rings are used for each frequency with slightly different frequencies to allow switching of wavelength division multiplexed signals.
Cross sections for charge change in argon and equilibrium charge states of 3.5 MeV/amu uranium ions passing through argon and carbon targets

Abstract Cross sections for single and multiple electron capture and loss were measured for 3.5 MeV/amu uranium ions, traveling in argon gas, as a function of incident charge state. Multiple electron loss in single collisions was found to contribute significantly to the total loss cross section. The measured cross sections were used to determine the average equilibrium charge in argon by three different methods. The resulting charges were in good agreement with each other and with the effective charge calculated from stopping powers. In order to investigate the gas–solid (density) effect on the average equilibrium charge, the charge distributions of 3.5 MeV/amu uranium ions emerging from carbon foils of different thicknesses were measured. It was found that the average equilibrium charge of the uranium ions emerging from the solid is 41% larger than that of the uranium ions emerging from the gas. The energy dependences of the average equilibrium charges for uranium ions exiting carbon and argon targets were examined by combining the present results with previous results of other investigators and compared with the predictions of a semiempirical formula developed recently by Schiwietz and Grande.
17β-estradiol differentially activates mitogen-activated protein-kinases and improves survival following reperfusion injury of reduced-size liver in mice

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R-I), which is unavoidable in liver transplantation, impairs liver regeneration and predisposes to liver failure. The three major mitogen-activated protein-kinases (MAPKs): ERK, p38, and JNK, are critical in the transmission of signals triggered by proinflammatory cytokines, by stress, and by growth factors. JNK and p38α activation have been associated with apoptosis; p38β with cell survival; and ERK with proliferation. Previous studies have demonstrated gender dimorphism in hepatocellular dysfunction after experimental trauma and hemorrhage. Female mice are protected to a much greater extent from I/R-I than male mice. We assessed the effects of 17β-estradiol (17β-E) on liver function, host survival, and cellular activation of MAPK in a murine model of I/R-I in reduced-size livers. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to 45 minutes of warm ischemia (70% of the liver mass). After reperfusion, the nonischemic lobes were excised. Vehicle, 17β-E or the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI-182780, was delivered 1 hour before the injury. We evaluated AST and apoptosis as well as activation of JNK, p38, and ERK. Female mice showed a lower level of hepatocellular injury (AST = 445 ± 82 IU/L) after I/R-I compared with male mice (AST = 1400 ± 210). 17β-E decreased the liver injury in male mice (AST = 522 ± 77), an effect that was partially reversed by ICI-182,780 (910 ± 92). A higher rate of apoptosis was observed in male animals given saline (enrichment factor = 7.22 ± 0.8) versus those treated with 17β-E (5.85 ± 0.3, P < .05). A significant increase in liver regeneration, as assessed by the percentage of liver weight/body weight was demonstrated in females (184% ± 24%) and male mice given 17β-E (168% ± 22%) compared with male mice given vehicle (9% ± 4%). 17β-E significantly down-regulated JNK and p38α activities, whereas I/R-I promoted p38β and ERK activation. These results suggest that the cytoprotective effects of 17β-E on I/R-I to reduced-size livers are associated with selective modulation of MAPK kinases.
Quinoline-Containing, Conjugated Poly(aryleneethynylene)s: Novel Metal and H+-Responsive Materials

We describe the synthesis of novel copolymers containing quinoline, benzene, and alkyne groups by a Pd-catalyzed Heck−Cassar−Sonogashira−Hagihara reaction. Direct iodination of quinoline by a mixture of iodine, potassium periodate, and sulfuric acid in chloroform gives 3,6-diiodoquinoline. 3,6-Diiodoquinoline was coupled to 1,4-diethynyl-2,5-bis(2-ethylhexyl)benzene, and 3,6-diethynylquinoline was coupled to 1,4-diiodo-2,5-bis(2-ethylhexyloxy)benzene. The polymers formed in good-to-excellent yields with a degree of polymerization (Pn) ranging from 11 to 95 and polydispersities (Mw/Mn) from 1.8 to 3.3. Their optical properties (i.e., absorption and emission) were shown to be dramatically dependent upon the presence of protons and to a lesser extent metal cations. The change in fluorescence upon protonation is different for the alkyl- and alkoxy-substituted polymer. In the alkyl case bright yellow fluorescence is observed upon protonation, while for the alkoxy case the polymer's fluorescence is quenched upo...
Theoretical prediction of erosive burning characteristics of solid rocket propellant based on burning rate dependence of pressure and initial temperature and its energetic characteristics

New theoretical method for prediction of erosive burning characteristics of solid propellant, using known ballistic and thermodynamic data only, is presented. Method is based on modified Lenoir-Robillard formula, and is applicable for composite and double base propellants, with or without negative erosion effect. Method is confirmed using experimental data of numerous authors.
An introduction to the use of interim data analyses in clinical trials

During a controlled clinical trial, data accumulate that contain information on the relative efficacy of the two treatments, yet these data often are not inspected or analyzed until the planned sample size has been reached and the trial has been terminated. This type of fixed-sample-size trial design, with a single terminal data analysis, has the ethical disadvantage that more patients than are necessary to obtain a reliable result may be randomized to the less efficacious treatment, whichever one that turns out to be. Thus, it often is desirable to schedule one or more analyses of the data, to be conducted before planned termination, to see if a reliable conclusion may be drawn from the data and the trial terminated early. Such analyses are called interim analyses. When interim analyses occur after each of several relatively large groups of patients, the trial is called a group-sequential trial. Interim data analyses must be planned in advance to avoid increasing the risk of committing a Type I error and to achieve adequate power. This article introduces the statistical issues involved in the planning of interim data analyses and the design of group-sequential clinical trials.
Facilitated Monocyte-Macrophage Uptake and Tissue Distribution of Superparmagnetic Iron-Oxide Nanoparticles

Background We posit that the same mononuclear phagocytes (MP) that serve as target cells and vehicles for a host of microbial infections can be used to improve diagnostics and drug delivery. We also theorize that physical and biological processes such as particle shape, size, coating and opsonization that affect MP clearance of debris and microbes can be harnessed to facilitate uptake of nanoparticles (NP) and tissue delivery. Methods Monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) were used as vehicles of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) NP and immunoglobulin (IgG) or albumin coated SPIO for studies of uptake and distribution. IgG coated SPIO was synthesized by covalent linkage and uptake into monocytes and MDM investigated related to size, time, temperature, concentration, and coatings. SPIO and IgG SPIO were infused intravenously into naive mice. T(2) measures using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to monitor tissue distribution in animals. Results Oxidation of dextran on the SPIO surface generated reactive aldehyde groups and permitted covalent linkage to amino groups of murine and human IgG and F(ab')(2) fragments and for Alexa Fluor(R) 488 hydroxylamine to form a Schiff base. This labile intermediate was immediately reduced with sodium cyanoborohydride in order to stabilize the NP conjugate. Optical density measurements of the oxidized IgG, F(ab')(2), and/or Alexa Fluor(R) 488 SPIO demonstrated approximately 50% coupling yield. IgG-SPIO was found stable at 4 degrees C for a period of 1 month during which size and polydispersity index varied little from 175 nm and 200 nm, respectively. In vitro, NP accumulated readily within monocyte and MDM cytoplasm after IgG-SPIO exposure; whereas, the uptake of native SPIO in monocytes and MDM was 10-fold less. No changes in cell viability were noted for the SPIO-containing monocytes and MDM. Cell morphology was not changed as observed by transmission electron microscopy. Compared to unconjugated SPIO, intravenous injection of IgG-SPIO afforded enhanced and sustained lymphoid tissue distribution over 24 hours as demonstrated by MRI. Conclusions Facilitated uptake of coated SPIO in monocytes and MDM was achieved. Uptake was linked to particle size and was time and concentration dependent. The ability of SPIO to be rapidly taken up and distributed into lymphoid tissues also demonstrates feasibility of macrophage-targeted nanoformulations for diagnostic and drug therapy.
Optimal sensor placement in micro-distributed systems

Various problems associated with the optimal placement of sensors for complete observation of the spatial profile of a solid microdistributed system such as micromachined deformable structures with compact spatial domains in R/sup n/ are posed as optimization problems involving set measures. These optimization problems are generally nonsmooth and combinatorial in nature. Computational algorithms and numerical results for optimal placement of sensors in a generic one-dimensional micromachined structure are discussed.
Differences in the Use of Cheliped Autotomy by the Mud Fiddler Crab Uca Pugnax (Smith, 1870) (Decapoda, Ocypodidae) When Escaping Predation by the Blue Crab Callinectes Sapidus (Rathbun, 1896)

Autotomy of limbs has been observed for a variety of organisms and in some taxa has been shown to be an effective strategy for escaping predation. We investigated differences in the use of cheliped autotomy by small and large male fiddler crabs during predation events, and also assessed if autotomy of the major cheliped allowed male fiddler crabs to escape predation more often than females. The blue crab Callinectes sapidus was presented with 5 small and 5 large male mud fiddler crabs Uca pugnax (n = 60), and in a second experiment, 5 male and 5 female U. pugnax were presented to C. sapidus (n = 60). Large U. pugnax autotomized their major cheliped more often and survived compared to small U. pugnax (n = 22 pools, S = 96.5, p < 0.0001), although this difference was not significant when adjusted for the total number of attacks on each size (n = 22 pools, S = 45, p = 0.1467). There was no significant difference (n = 29 pools, S = 30.5, p = 0.4988) between the total number of unsuccessful attacks on male versus female U. pugnax. At least half of the males autotomized their major cheliped in unsuccessful attacks during the first (69%) and second (53%) experiments. The major cheliped of male U. pugnax is a prominent visual stimulus that may have initially attracted C. sapidus to this prey; however, autotomization potentially enabled male fiddler crabs to escape predation in over half of all unsuccessful attacks.
Large Size LSO and LYSO Crystals for Future High Energy Physics Experiments

Following our previous studies, a further investigation on three long (2.5 times 2.5 times 20 cm3) LSO and LYSO crystal samples was carried out, and was compared to a long BGO sample of the same size. The optical and scintillation properties, including transmittance, photo-luminescence and excitation spectra, were measured. The result of light output and light response uniformity, measured by using both PMT and APD, are reported. Their applications in future high energy physics experiments are discussed.
An ab initio study of the noble gas compound HKrCl

Abstract Recent developments in noble gas chemistry have illustrated the potential for noble gases such as argon and krypton to participate in chemical bonding. In this study, electron correlation methods (i.e. CCSD(T)) in combination with the correlation consistent basis sets [cc-pV x Z, aug-cc-pV x Z, cc-pV( x + d )Z, and aug-cc-pV( x + d)Z, where x = D(2), T(3), Q(4), 5] have been used to investigate the ground and transition state structures, vibrational properties, and relative energetics of the recently observed HKrCl species. The decomposition pathway of HKrCl to HCl + Kr has also been examined.
Thrombophilia and severe preeclampsia: time to screen and treat in future pregnancies?

The term thrombophilia is used to describe a heterogenous group of coagulation abnormalities (acquired or inherited) that are generally associated with increased risk of arterial and venous thrombosis.1 Antiphospholipid antibodies (APA) is the most frequent acquired thrombophilic disorder during pregnancy. It is generally diagnosed in the presence of elevated levels of IgG and IgM (GpL or MpL values ≥20) or the presence of lupus auticoagulant.2 The most common inherited thrombophilic disorders during pregnancy are mutations in factor V Leiden (FVL), prothrombin gene, and tetrahydrofolate reductase. During the past 2 decades, epidemiologic and case-control studies have evaluated the association between thrombophilias and adverse pregnancy outcome (APO), specifically, preeclampsia and intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR).1–5 An association between severe preeclampsia at <34 weeks and APA was first reported by Branch et al in 1989.2 Based on this report, recommendations were made that women with severe preeclampsia at <34 weeks be screened for the presence of APA and be treated if positive in subsequent pregnancies. Since that publication, several studies were published supporting or refuting an association between these antibodies and preeclampsia.6,7 Indeed, a recent report concluded that data do not support routine testing for APA in women with early-onset preeclampsia.6 An association between preeclampsia and inherited thrombophilias was first reported by Dekker et al in 1995.8 Since then, a large number of retrospective and case-controlled studies have examined the association …
Ultraviolet-B radiation induced cross-linking improves physical properties of cold- and warm-water fish gelatin gels and films.

Abstract: Cold- and warm-water fish gelatin granules were exposed to ultraviolet-B radiation for doses up to 29.7 J/cm2. Solutions and films were prepared from the granules. Gel electrophoresis and refractive index were used to examine changes in molecular weight of the samples. Also, the gel strength and rheological properties of the solutions as well as the tensile and water vapor barrier properties of the films were characterized. SDS-PAGE and refractive index results indicated cross-linking of gelatin chains after exposure to radiation. Interestingly, UV-B treated samples displayed higher gel strengths, with cold- and warm-water fish gelatin having gel strength increases from 1.39 to 2.11 N and from 7.15 to 8.34 N, respectively. In addition, both gelatin samples exhibited an increase in viscosity for higher UV doses. For gelatin films, the cold-water fish gelatin samples made from irradiated granules showed greater tensile strength. In comparison, the warm-water gelatin films made from irradiated granules had lower tensile strength, but better water vapor barrier properties. This might be due to the UV induced cross-linking in warm-water gelatin that disrupted helical structures.
Estimating the effect of gypsy moth defoliation using MODIS

article The area of North American forests affected by gypsy moth defoliation continues to expand despite efforts to slow the spread. With the increased area of infestation, ecological, environmental and economic concerns about gypsy moth disturbance remain significant, necessitating coordinated, repeatable and comprehensive monitoring of the areas affected. In this study, our primary objective was to estimate the magnitude of defoliation using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) imagery for a gypsy moth outbreak that occurred in the US central Appalachian Mountains in 2000 and 2001. We focused on determining the appropriate spectral MODIS indices and temporal compositing method to best monitor the effects of gypsy moth defoliation. We tested MODIS-based Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), and two versions of the Normalized Difference Infrared Index (NDIIb6 and NDIIb7, using the channels centered on 1640 nm and 2130 nm respectively) for their capacity to map defoliation as estimated by ground observations. In addition, we evaluated three temporal resolutions: daily, 8-day and 16-day data. We validated the results through quantitative comparison to Landsat based defoliation estimates and traditional sketch maps. Our MODIS based defoliation estimates based on NDIIb6 and NDIIb7 closely matched Landsat defoliation estimates derived from field data as well as sketch maps. We conclude that daily MODIS data can be used with confidence to monitor insect defoliation on an annual time scale, at least for larger patches (N0.63 km
Targeting pro-inflammatory cytokines following joint injury: acute intra-articular inhibition of interleukin-1 following knee injury prevents post-traumatic arthritis

Introduction: Post-traumatic arthritis (PTA) is a progressive, degenerative response to joint injury, such as articular fracture. The pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin 1(IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), are acutely elevated following joint injury and remain elevated for prolonged periods post-injury. To investigate the role of local and systemic inflammation in the development of post-traumatic arthritis, we targeted both the initial acute local inflammatory response and a prolonged 4 week systemic inflammatory response by inhibiting IL-1 or TNF-α following articular fracture in the mouse knee. Methods: Anti-cytokine agents, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) or soluble TNF receptor II (sTNFRII), were administered either locally via an acute intra-articular injection or systemically for a prolonged 4 week period following articular fracture of the knee in C57BL/6 mice. The severity of arthritis was then assessed at 8 weeks post-injury in joint tissues via histology and micro computed tomography, and systemic and local biomarkers were assessed in serum and synovial fluid. Results: Intra-articular inhibition of IL-1 significantly reduced cartilage degeneration, synovial inflammation, and did not alter bone morphology following articular fracture. However, systemic inhibition of IL-1, and local or systemic inhibition of TNF provided no benefit or conversely led to increased arthritic changes in the joint tissues. Conclusion: These results show that intra-articular IL-1, rather than TNF-α, plays a critical role in the acute inflammatory phase of joint injury and can be inhibited locally to reduce post-traumatic arthritis following a closed articular fracture. Targeted local inhibition of IL-1 following joint injury may represent a novel treatment option for PTA.
Acid-induced unfolding of the amino-terminal domains of the lethal and edema factors of anthrax toxin.

The two enzymatic components of anthrax toxin, lethal factor (LF) and edema factor (EF), are transported to the cytosol of mammalian cells by the third component, protective antigen (PA). A heptameric form of PA binds LF and/or EF and, under the acidic conditions encountered in endosomes, generates a membrane-spanning pore that is thought to serve as a passageway for these enzymes to enter the cytosol. The pore contains a 14-stranded transmembrane β-barrel that is too narrow to accommodate a fully folded protein, necessitating that LF and EF unfold, at least partly, in order to pass. Here, we describe the pH-dependence of the unfolding of LFN and EFN, the 30 kDa N-terminal PA-binding domains, and minimal translocatable units, of LF and EF. Equilibrium chemical denaturation studies using fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopy show that each protein unfolds via a four-state mechanism: N↔I↔J↔U. The acid-induced N→I transition occurs within the pH range of the endosome (pH 5–6). The I state predominates at lower pH values, and the J and U states are populated significantly only in the presence of denaturant. The I state is compact and has characteristics of a molten globule, as shown by its retention of significant secondary structure and its ability to bind an apolar fluorophore. The N→I transition leads to an overall 60% increase in buried surface area exposure. The J state is expanded significantly and has diminished secondary structure content. We analyze the different protonation states of LFN and EFN in terms of a linked equilibrium proton binding model and discuss the implications of our findings for the mechanism of acidic pH-induced translocation of anthrax toxin. Finally, analysis of the structure of the transmembrane β-barrel of PA shows that it can accommodate α-helix, and we suggest that the steric constraints and composition of the lumen may promote α-helix formation.
Perceptions of racial microaggressions among black supervisees in cross-racial dyads.

Perceived racial microaggressions by White supervisors were examined through a qualitative analysis of 10 self-identified Black doctoral supervisees in counseling and clinical psychology. Results indicated 7 microaggression themes directed toward this group: (a) invalidating racial–cultural issues, (b) making stereotypic assumptions about Black clients, (c) making stereotypic assumptions about Black supervisees, (d) reluctance to give performance feedback for fear of being viewed as racist, (e) focusing primarily on clinical weaknesses, (f) blaming clients of color for problems stemming from oppression, and (g) offering culturally insensitive treatment recommendations. The impact of these racial microaggressions was found to be detrimental to Black trainees, the supervisory relationship, and, indirectly, to clients of color. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Adenosine and bone metabolism

Bone is a dynamic organ that undergoes continuous remodeling while maintaining a balance between bone formation and resorption. Osteoblasts, which synthesize and mineralize new bone, and osteoclasts, the cells that resorb bone, act in concert to maintain bone homeostasis. In recent years, there has been increasing appreciation of purinergic regulation of bone metabolism. Adenosine, released locally, mediates its physiologic and pharmacologic actions via interactions with G protein-coupled receptors, and recent work has indicated that these receptors are involved in the regulation of osteoclast differentiation and function, as well as in osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. Moreover, adenosine receptors also regulate chondrocyte and cartilage homeostasis. These recent findings underscore the potential therapeutic importance of adenosine receptors in regulating bone physiology and pathology.
A Model That Relates Canal-Ocular to Otolith-Ocular Responses

Rotation about the vertical stimulates primarily the horizontal semicircular canals and produces compensatory horizontal nystagmus whose slow component velocity response during constant velocity can be approximated as having a simple exponential decay time constant, Tvor. Constant velocity yaw rotation about a horizontal axis stimulates both the horizontal canals and the otolith organs, producing two additional nystagmus components thought to be of otolithic origin: a steady component called bias and a periodic component known as modulation. We tested a group of 7 human subjects using rotation about each of these axes. We found a strong, negative correlation (r = 0.956) between these individuals' dominant time constants, Tvor, and the magnitude of their modulation components. Canal and otolith signals originate from different parts of the same endorgan and travel separately to the vestibular nucleus. The reflexive eye movements in response to these inputs are thought to be the result of additional processing by the central vestibular and ocular motor systems. Thus, the source of these strongly correlated otolith-ocular and canal-ocular reflex components could logically be due to common factors affecting peripheral transduction or to a subsequent common central processing step. Using anatomical measurements of human vestibular end organs, biophysical endorgan models, and models of central vestibular processes, we examined the alternatives to determine which was the most likely. Correlations were not found between Tvor and the anatomical data or between the Tvor and the biophysical model elements. However, modifications of the velocity storage integrator of Raphan to incorporate either a highpass filter (HPF) or a lowpass filter input for otolith modulation signals allowed for the desired strong negative correlation between Tvor and modulation. We argue in favor of the HPF configuration because it better explains the tendency for the modulation component to increase in amplitude as the modulation frequency is increased. In the above mentioned representation of the central processing of vestibular afferent inputs, we conclude that the modulation component input to the vestibuloocular reflex is within the indirect pathway, but it is "down stream" from the velocity storage integrator.