cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TU-AB-BRB-02: Stochastic Programming Methods for Handling Uncertainty and Motion in IMRT Planning

The accepted clinical method to accommodate targeting uncertainties inherent in fractionated external beam radiation therapy is to utilize GTV-to-CTV and CTV-to-PTV margins during the planning process to design a PTV-conformal static dose distribution on the planning image set. Ideally, margins are selected to ensure a high (e.g. >95%) target coverage probability (CP) in spite of inherent inter- and intra-fractional positional variations, tissue motions, and initial contouring uncertainties. Robust optimization techniques, also known as probabilistic treatment planning techniques, explicitly incorporate the dosimetric consequences of targeting uncertainties by including CP evaluation into the planning optimization process along with coverage-based planning objectives. The treatment planner no longer needs to use PTV and/or PRV margins; instead robust optimization utilizes probability distributions of the underlying uncertainties in conjunction with CP-evaluation for the underlying CTVs and OARs to design an optimal treated volume. This symposium will describe CP-evaluation methods as well as various robust planning techniques including use of probability-weighted dose distributions, probability-weighted objective functions, and coverage optimized planning. Methods to compute and display the effect of uncertainties on dose distributions will be presented. The use of robust planning to accommodate inter-fractional setup uncertainties, organ deformation, and contouring uncertainties will be examined as will its use to accommodate intra-fractional organ motion. Clinical examples will be used to inter-compare robust and margin-based planning, highlighting advantages of robust-plans in terms of target and normal tissue coverage. Robust-planning limitations as uncertainties approach zero and as the number of treatment fractions becomes small will be presented, as well as the factors limiting clinical implementation of robust planning. Learning Objectives: 1. To understand robust-planning as a clinical alternative to using margin-based planning. 2. To understand conceptual differences between uncertainty and predictable motion. 3. To understand fundamental limitations of the PTV concept that probabilistic planning can overcome. 4. To understand the major contributing factors to target and normal tissue coverage probability. 5. To understand the similarities and differences of various robust planning techniques 6. To understand the benefits and limitations of robust planning techniques
Model Reuse and Technology Transfer

Quantitative models are a widely accepted means to predict and to control software quality ond development productivity. If these models are updated to reflect the positive effect of new processes or new technologies, and if the same models are reused by several projects, this will make the advantage of the new technology visible and will create pressure to adopt it. Thus, reuse of models becomes a vehicle for technology transfer.
On a finite-difference solution for the constant-property turbulent boundary layer.

A finite-differe nce method has been developed for the solutions to the governing partial differential equations for the constant-property turbulent boundary layer. Prandtl's mixinglength concept was used to express the apparent turbulent shearing stress according to a hypothesized mixing-length distribution through the boundary layer. The model for the mixing-length distribution is in general agreement with experimental data for a variety of flow conditions. The method, an always stable explicit finite-difference formulation that requires no iterative procedures, is numerically more direct than other methods recently proposed and is unique in its evaluation of the apparent shearing stress by using an assumed mixing-length distribution as the only empirical input. The predicted skin-friction coefficients and velocity profiles agree well with experimental data for the several comparisons made, which included flows in both favorable and adverse pressure gradients as well as flat plate cases with and without blowing. The numerical method presented is not restricted to use with the particular mixing-length model tentatively proposed in this work, but can be used to compare various models and help establish their properties and range of applicability, thereby serving to further understanding of the most fundamental aspects of turbulent flow. a c Cf gc I
Radiative transfer in three dimensional masers

The standard theory of three-dimensional masers is based upon inadequate approximations. In particular, the standard treatment adopts equations for the steady-state molecular level populations and for the transfer of maser radiation which apply strictly only to one-dimensional masers. I consider here the specific case of a partially saturated spherical maser in which the rate of cross-relaxation between molecules of different velocities is small. For that case the standard approach leads to a relationship between the maser intensity and the molecular level populations which differs significantly from that obtained using the exact equations for the transfer of maser radiation. The correct solution to the problem of the spherical maser can be obtained numerically by an iterative method and will be considered in future work.
The relationship between eating disorders and sexual trauma

Research aimed at understanding the causes and comorbidities of eating disorders (ED) identifies sexual trauma as one potential pathway to the development and maintenance of eating disorders. Based on current literature, there are two main etiological pathways between sexual trauma and ED-body perceptions and psychological difficulties. However, previously published reviews on this topic are outdated and have not yielded consistent findings. Therefore, authors completed a literature review covering years 2004-2014 to examine the relationship between sexual trauma and ED according to both proposed pathway models. Authors utilized PubMed, GoogleScholar, and PsychINFO as search engines. Search terms included "sexual assault", "sexual abuse", "sexual trauma", and "rape" in conjunction with relevant ED terminology. Thirty-two studies met inclusion criteria for this review. Current data indicate an increased prevalence of sexual trauma for individuals with ED. Although limited, recent evidence suggests that sexual trauma precedes and contributes to the development of ED. Existing literature indicates that the body perceptions pathway may impact ED through body dissatisfaction, shame, sexual dysfunction, and fear of future sexual trauma. The psychological difficulties pathway indicates a link between ED and the desire to cope with the failure of the average expected environment, psychological diagnoses, the need for control, and the regulation of emotions. However, further research is needed to assess the potential causal role that sexual trauma may play in the etiology of ED.
Carry the Banner Where It Can Be Seen: Small Wins for Social Justice

In this article we address the following questions: How is oppression maintained? What resources enhance human welfare, thereby weakening oppression? and How can the systems of oppression be challenged and interrupted? Our response to the last question is: “Organize on the local level with real allies to effect small wins that encourage political participation.”
A single feed dual-band (2.4GHz/5.8GHz) miniaturized patch antenna for wireless local area network (WLAN) Communications

In this paper, a single layer, single feed, dual-frequency microstrip patch antenna is proposed. This antenna was design for IEEE 802.11b (2.4GHz∼2.4835GHZ) and IEEE 802.11a (5.725GHz∼5.825GHz) frequency bands. Its dualband behavior is achieved by a shorting pin at 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz. In addition, the antenna is miniaturized by 31.8% compared to the conventional rectangular patch without a slot. This antenna has a broadside and symmetrical radiation pattern suitable for wire local area network (WLAN) applications.
Adaptive ICA for separation of complex signals with known source distributions in time-varying channels

A novel implementation of the complex block adaptive independent component analysis algorithm is presented. The new realisation is employed for the separation of complex signals with known source distributions. In practice, such situations are commonly encountered. Computer simulations show that the new algorithm converges much faster than the already existing complex fast-ICA in time-varying channels. In addition, the fast convergence of the novel technique is maintained with variation in the processing block size and is computationally cost effective.
Bribery: The Concept

The aim of this paper is to clarify the concept of bribery, and to do this in a way that reveals its underlying normative features. Bribery, like lying is not a value neutral concept. It has a negative connotation and is regarded by most as generally, although not necessarily universally, wrong. At the very least, those who resort to bribery bear a burden of justification for what they do. This is no small point, as no such burden must be borne for the vast majority of human activities, such as engaging in conversation or taking a walk, which normally do not. As Sissela Bok says of lying, we might say that a negative moral weight attaches to every act of bribery; it may be possible to counter this negative weight in some instances, but not without an argument (the provision of good reasons).1 Why should a negative moral weight be attached to every act of bribery? It might be thought that, even if most instances of bribery are morally objectionable, the concept of bribery itself is morally neutral.2 However, enticing people to violate what they take to be their positional duties does seem to call for some sort of moral justification. This seems to be so even in extreme cases, for example, when bribing a Nazi guard to allow concentration camp prisoners to escape. The ready availability of a moral justification in such circumstances does not eliminate the need for one.
Designing optimal global supply chains at Dow AgroSciences

The design of the underlying supply chain network can have a tremendous impact on the profitability, manageability, and level of risk of a global supply chain. Taxes, duties, and tariffs vary from country to country as well as trading bloc to trading bloc and can consume as much as 10% of the revenues of certain products. In the highly regulated business environment of agricultural chemicals, the country of origin of an active ingredient can determine where the final product can be marketed and the amount of taxes and duties applied to the product, making it necessary to trace all batches of product through many layers of the supply chain to their sources. This article presents a mixed integer linear programming model in use at Dow AgroSciences LLC that simultaneously optimizes the network design underlying global supply chains and the monthly production and shipping schedules for maximum profitability. This work contributes to the supply chain design literature by demonstrating a novel method of tracing products to their source for inventory valuation, taxation, and duty computation in a production environment where the products change into other products as they pass through nodes in the network. It also demonstrates an iterative scheme for determining unit fixed costs for fixed cost allocation for the same purposes. Finally, it provides a case study of a supply chain design initiative in a global enterprise.
A history of acid mine contamination, recovery, and eutrophication in Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania

Sandy Lake, PA, was subject to acid mine contamination in the 1860s, which led to complete extirpation of fish. The mine effluent was soon diverted, but the watershed experienced continued deforestation, agricultural development, and population growth to the beginning of the twentieth century. Paleolimnological analyses of metals and diatoms clearly show the onset of acid mine drainage with rapid increases in concentrations of iron, manganese and sulfur, and decreases in diatom-inferred pH in the sedimentary profile, and a very rapid recovery following remediation. Diatom-inferred phosphorus suggests a period of oligotrophication following diversion of the acid mine drainage and reduction in lake catchment area. However, analyses of nutrients and algal pigments suggest continued eutrophication to the present in spite of increasing forest cover and a stable population over the last century. Pigments indicate a tenfold increase in phytoplankton, with cyanobacteria becoming a more significant portion of the biomass. Accumulation of sedimentary phosphorus has increased by a factor of 4 and sedimentary organic carbon by a factor of 5 since the mid-1800s.
Detection of Feigned Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Comparison of the MMPI-2 and PAI

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) and Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) were compared for detecting feigned posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a simulation research design. Participants were 85 undergraduates in one of three groups: PTSDs (n = 23), Fakers (n = 31), and Controls (n = 31). As expected, both the MMPI-2 and PAI discriminated PTSDs and Controls, with PTSDs scoring significantly higher on fake-bad validity scales and PTSD-relevant clinical scales. However, only the MMPI-2 discriminated Fakers and PTSDs, with Fakers scoring significantly higher on all MMPI-2 scales considered, but on only one PAI scale. Further, in logistic regression analyses the MMPI-2 demonstrated higher overall correct classification of PTSDs and Fakers than did the PAI. Although the MMPI-2 outperformed the PAI in detecting feigned PTSD, a substantial proportion of Fakers avoided detection by MMPI-2 fake-bad validity scales, suggesting that both tests are vulnerable to feigning of PTSD by motivated respondents with relatively limited coaching.
Special Calcium Appetite in Laying Hens

An experiment was conducted to study calcium appetite and dietary calcium level related to laying hen performance. The experiment consisted of three periods: pre-experimental, training, and experimental. A total of 80 commercial strain laying hens (58 weeks old) were divided into two groups. One group (20 birds) served as a control throughout the experiment and was fed 3.5% dietary calcium without a free-choice calcium supplement. The other 60 birds were randomly divided into 3 sets of 20 and were all fed 3.5% dietary calcium for a pre-experimental period (13 days) as an adaptation period to a new environment prior to a training period (5 weeks). Dietary calcium level was decreased by .5% each week through the 5th week (to 1% Ca) for all 60 hens during the training period. The birds were given access to a free-choice calcium supplement (calcium carbonate granules) during both the pre-experimental and training periods. This dietary regimen was used in an effort to allow all hens to adapt to a supplemental feeding program and be prepared or conditioned for sudden changes in dietary calcium level. At the end of the training period, the 3 sets of 20 hens were fed either 1, 3, or 5% dietary calcium and a free-choice calcium supplement for 6 weeks. As dietary calcium level was increased, there was a decrease in free-choice supplemental calcium intake; however, all birds (except controls) consumed very large amounts of calcium. The training procedure was successful: no hens rejected the supplement. Neither dietary calcium level nor total calcium intake affected feed intake.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Tiotidine, a new H2-receptor antagonist, is a potent inhibitor of nocturnal acid secretion in duodenal ulcer patients.

The efficacy of tiotidine, a new H2-receptor antagonist, in reducing nocturnal acid secretion of duodenal ulcer patients (N=12, ages 21–60 years) was investigated. Different doses of tiotidine, 25, 50, 100, and 150 mg or placebo, were given as a single oral dose and acid secretion collected overnight. Tiotidine produced a significant, prolonged, and dose-related reduction of the nocturnal acid secretion without important side effects. The inhibition of cumulative H+ secretion after 25, 50, 100, and 150 mg tiotidine was 80, 89, 96, and 98% of that observed after placebo, while 300 mg of cimetidine caused an 87% inhibition. Compared to cimetidine, tiotidine appears to be approximately eight times more potent on a molar basis than cimetidine as an inhibitor of acid secretion, and the tiotidine effect is more prolonged. This strong and safe H2-receptor antagonist may be an important addition to the treatment of acid hypersecretory states.
A study of the sodium- and potassium-activated adenosinetriphosphatase activity of heart microsomal fraction

Abstract The microsomal fraction is isolated from guinea pig heart. This fraction is found to contain the Na + - and K + -activated ATPase in the presence of Mg 2+ . The maximal ATPase activity is obtained at Na + and K + concentrations of 100 mM and 10 mM respectively. Calcium inhibits totally the Na + - and K + -activated portion of ATPase in the presence of Mg 2+ ; however Ca 2+ itself stimulates ATPase in the absence of Mg 2+ . Na + increases further the Ca 2+ -activated ATPase but not K + . Strophanthin-K initially stimulates then depresses the Na + K + -activated ATPase in the presence of Mg 2+ . Both catecholamines and sympathetic blocking agents depress the Na + -K + -activated ATPase. However, when these agents are present together in the reaction mixture, no depression of Na + K + -activated ATPase activity is observed. Similarly, both acetylcholine and atropine inhibit the Na + K + -activated ATPase, but no inhibition of Na + K + -activated ATPase is observed when acetylcholine and atropine are added together.
Near-infrared spectroscopy for burning plasma diagnostic applications.

Ultraviolet and visible (UV-VIS, 200–750nm) atomic spectroscopy of neutral and ionized fuel species (H, D, T, and Li) and impurities (e.g., He, Be, C, and W) is a key element of plasma control and diagnosis on International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor and future magnetically confined burning plasma experiments (BPXs). Spectroscopic diagnostic implementation and performance issues that arise in the BPX harsh nuclear environment in the UV-VIS range, e.g., degradation of first mirror reflectivity under charge-exchange atom bombardment (erosion) and impurity deposition, permanent and dynamic loss of window, and optical fiber transmission under intense neutron and γ-ray fluxes, are either absent or not as severe in the near-infrared (NIR, 750–2000nm) range. An initial survey of NIR diagnostic applications has been undertaken on the National Spherical Torus Experiment. It is demonstrated that NIR spectroscopy can be used for machine protection and plasma control applications, as well as contribute to pla...
Acute hyperinsulinemia and its reversal by vagotomy after lesions of the ventromedial hypothalamus in anesthetized rats.

The acute effect of bilateral electrolytic ventromedial hypothalamic lesions (20–25-m Coulomb stainless steel electrodes) on plasma levels of insulin and glucose was studied in anesthetized rats to determine early effects that would occur before hyperphagia and obesity. In rats fed ad libitum, lesions in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) but not in the cortex produced a marked increase in circulating insulin levels (starting at 20 min postlesion) and a small increase in glycemia which, however, was not significant and could therefore not be the cause of increased insulin secretion. Hyperinsulinemia after VMH lesions was more pronounced when glucose was infused iv at a rate of 7–8 mg/kg-min. Bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy, performed 50 min after VMH lesions, immediately and completely reversed the observed hyperinsulinemia. With the exception of a tendency of lesions producing the highest degree of hyperinsulinemia to be slightly larger than the lesions not producing any hyperinsulinemia, no stateme...
Nanoscale torsional resonator for polarization and spectroscopy of nuclear spins.

We propose a torsional resonator that couples to the transverse spin dipole of an attached sample. The absence of relative motion eliminates a source of friction that would otherwise hinder nanoscale implementation. Enhanced spontaneous emission induced by the resonator relaxes the longitudinal spin dipole at a rate of ~1 s^(-1) in the low-temperature limit. With signal averaging, single-proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy appears feasible at ~10 mK and a high magnetic field, while single-shot sensitivity is practical for samples with at least tens of protons in a volume of ~5 nm^3.
PROJECTIONS OF THE PARAVENTRICULAR NUCLEUS OF THE HYPOTHALAMUS TO THE SEXUALLY DIMORPHIC LUMBOSACRAL REGION OF THE SPINAL CORD

Abstract Lumbar regions L5–L6 of the spinal cord of the male rat contain the sexually dimorphic motor nuclei, the spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus (SNB) and the dorsolateral nucleus (DLN), which innervate perineal muscles, the bulbocavernosus and the ischiocavernosus, respectively. This neuromuscular system controls penile reflexes which are essential to male reproductive success. Oxytocin has been shown to induce penile reflexes and the site of action for these effects is the PVN. Since PVN is known to project to cervical and thoracic levels of spinal cord, the present study examined projections of the PVN to the L5–L6 region of the spinal cord. WGA-HRP was injected into the region of L5–L6, aimed at the SNB and DLN and their dendritic extents, in intact male, castrated male and female rats. WGA-HRP-labelled cell bodies were found in the parvocellular subnuclei of PVN, as well as regions of the lateral hypothalamus and the dorsal area of the hypothalamus. These results demonstrate that the PVN projects to lumbar levels of the spinal cord that are sexually dimorphic and androgen-dependent. This suggests that PVN may modulate the activity of these motoneurons.
283 NEONATAL HYPOGLYCEMIA ASSOCIATED WITH ANTERIOR HYPOPITUITARISM

We have observed the association of profound hypoglycemia and anterior hypopituitarism in four newborns. All presented with hypoglycemia during the first 30 hours of life, which reached levels less than 10 mg.%. Rates of 20-30 mg./kg./min. of 20% dextrose were required to maintain glucose levels above 30 mg.%. All infants were products of complicated pregnancies and deliveries and had APGAR scores of five or less at one and five minutes. Measurements of anterior pituitary function including serum TSH, T4, ACTH, cortisol and growth hormone, in addition to metapyrone and cosyntropin stimulation, revealed anterior panhypopituitarism in three infants and isolated ACTH deficiency in the other. Posterior pituitary function was normal in all cases. Unresponsiveness of TSH to intravenous thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) and normal serum prolactin levels further support anterior pituitary dysfunction in contrast to a hypothalamic etiology. Autopsy on one infant revealed no anterior pituitary tissue. The three surviving patients are all doing well on appropriate hormone replacement. Micropenis was present in the one male and all infants showed a widening of the midfacies. This unappreciated cause of early neonatal hypoglycemia may be related to birth hypoxia or anatomic malformation of the anterior pituitary and its rudiments. These may be more susceptible to events at birth than previously appreciated and consequently this system should be more agressively evaluated in newborns.
Convergence of visceral and cutaneous input onto spinothalamic tract cells in the thoracic spinal cord of the cat.

Abstract Spinothalamic tract cells in the thoracic spinal cord of the cat were examined for responses to electrical stimulation of the ipsilateral greater splanchnic nerve and natural cutaneous stimulation. Tract cells were identified by antidromic activation from the contralateral brainstem at the mesencephalic-diencephalic junction. The locations of stimulating points in the brain stem and recording sites in the spinal cord were determined histologically. Spinothalamic tract cells were found in Rexed's laminae IV, V, VII, and VIII. Convergence of visceral and cutaneous input was observed in each neuron. Activity elicited in spinothalamic tract cells by excitation of A-gamma-delta visceral afferents and by noxious and non-noxious mechanical stimulation of the skin was observed. Visceral afferent input can therefore be relayed to the thalamus via direct spinal projections, and convergence of visceral and cutaneous input onto spinothalamic tract cells may play a role in the phenomenon of referred pain.
A micro-macro correlation of ozone-induced fracture in rubber

Molecular bond rupture and strain energy release rates correlation during ozone cracking of rubber from electron paramagnetic resonance and stress elongation measurements
Limitations in the Use of Particle Size-Selective Sampling Criteria in Occupational Epidemiology

Abstract The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the International Standards Organization (ISO) have both recently proposed similar sets of particulate sampling criteria. The criteria describe sample device collection efficiency, as a function of particle size, for inspirable, thoracic, and respirable particulate mass. The collection efficiency curves do not match the lung deposition curves at all particle sizes which leads to a bias between measured particulate (exposure) and deposited particulate (dose). This bias, as a function of particle size distribution, was examined for both the ACGIH and ISO proposed curves. Results indicate that the amount of bias varies with both geometric mean (mass median aerodynamic diameter) and geometric standard deviation. Thus, there will be a different exposure-dose relationship and exposure-response relationship for each particle size distribution. This can lead to additional variability in exposure-response analyses unless all members...
Expression and functional analysis of Gm114, a putative mammalian ortholog of Drosophila bam.

Abstract In the testis, the continuous production of sperm is maintained by a small population of stem cells called germ line stem cells (GSCs) in Drosophila, or spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in mammals. This stem cell population can self-renew or produce daughter cells that differentiate into mature sperm. In Drosophila, BMP signals inhibit GSC differentiation by blocking transcription of the gene bag of marbles (bam). Once bam is activated, germ cells initiate differentiation. We identified a novel gene in mouse, Gm114, that shows homology to Drosophila bam. In male germ cells, expression of Gm114 begins at 12.5–13.5 days post coitum (dpc), the stage in mice when germ cells cease proliferation and begin differentiation into prospermatogonia. In the adult testis, Gm114 is highly expressed in differentiated spermatocytes and spermatids but not in undifferentiated spermatogonia, strongly suggesting that, similar to Bam, GM114 plays an important role in mammalian germ line stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Interestingly, deletion of the majority of the GM114 protein does not affect mouse viability or fertility. This suggests that either there is a function for the remaining N-terminal of GM114, or that there are alternative mechanisms in the mammalian system that control germ cell differentiation.
Phase Selection in Undercooled Ni-3.3 Wt Pct B Alloy Melt

The change of eutectic solidification mode in undercooled Ni-3.3 wt pct B melt was studied by fluxing and cyclic superheating. The eutectic structure is mainly controlled by the undercooling for eutectic solidification, ΔT2, instead of ΔT1, the undercooling for primary solidification. At a small ∆T2 [e.g., 56 K (56 °C)], the stable eutectic reaction (L → Ni3B + Ni) occurs and the eutectic morphology consists of lamellar and anomalous eutectic; whereas at a larger ∆T2 [≥140 K (140 °C)], the metastable eutectic reaction (L → Ni23B6 + Ni) occurs and the eutectic morphology consists of matrix, network boundary, and two kinds of dot phases. Further analysis declares that the regularly distributed dot phases with larger size come from the metastable eutectic transformation and are identified as α-Ni structure, whereas the irregularly distributed ones with smaller size are a product of the metastable decomposition and tend to have a similar structure to α-Ni as it grows. Calculation of the classical nucleation theory shows that the competitive nucleation between Ni23B6 and Ni3B leads to a critical undercooling, ΔT2* [125 K < ΔT2* < 157 K (125 °C < ∆T2* < 157 °C)], for the metastable/stable eutectic formation.
Application of percolation theory in predicting shape distortion during liquid-phase sintering

This article shows how percolation theory provides a theoretical model for the onset of shape distortion in liquid-phase sintering. The model uses an equivalent bond number per grain, with bond strength depending on the relative intergrain bond size. Based on this study, shape distortion is resisted by a rigid compact, which depends on the solid grains forming an infinite chainlike structure that spreads throughout the system. A sufficient condition requires contiguity above a critical value to form an infinite chainlike structure. The critical value is near 0.38. This is in good agreement with experimental results obtained with the W-Ni-Fe system sintered both under microgravity and on Earth. The effect of the gravitational force on the sufficient condition to avoid shape distortion is not significant. The effect of gravitational field on shape distortion becomes apparent only after the start of distortion, determining the final profile of a distorted compact.
Sickle cell testing programs

Summary Large-scale screening programs for detection of hemoglobinopathies among target populations should be an integral part of community medical services. The public is rapidly becoming aware of this, and the demand for such programs is likely to accelerate in the future. It is imperative that the objectives of such programs be clearly understood by both the laity and the medical profession. A distinction must be made between screening for the disease and for the trait. The rationale for the former is the prevention of significant morbidity and mortality through early detection; the target group is the neonate and infant. For the latter benign condition, the major objective of screening is for genetic counseling; the teen-agers and young adults constitute the age groups most appropriate for screening. Finally, testing should be considered only one aspect, and not the most important part, of a screening program which should also include community commitment and participation, meaningful education, and ethical genetic counseling. Unless this type of comprehensive program can be established, the desirability of testing by itself is dubious.
Dynamic Yield Strength of a Zirconium Base Metallic Glass

Le test de TAYLOR par la methode de balistique inverse a ete utilise pour determiner la resistance dynamique d'un verre metallique de Zr 62.6%-Cu 13.23%-Ti 11.01%-Ni 9.77% et Be 3.38%. La microscopie electronique a balayage a ete utilisee pour examiner l'interface entre la cible et le barreau apres impact. Des simulations numeriques ont ete effectuees pour interpreter et confirmer les resultats et les conclusions.
Preclinical efficacy evaluation of potential chemopreventive agents in animal carcinogenesis models: Methods and results from the NCI chemoprevention drug development program

In the NCI, Chemoprevention Branch drug development program, potential chemopreventive agents are evaluated for efficacy against chemical carcinogen-induced tumors in animal models. This paper summarizes the results of 144 agents in 352 tests using various animal efficacy models. Of these results, 146 were positive, representing 85 different agents. The target organs selected for the animals model are representative of high-incidence human cancers. The assays include inhibition of tumors induced by MNU in hamster trachea, DEN in hamster lung, AOM in rat colon (including inhibition of AOM-induced aberrant crypts), MAM in mouse colon, DMBA and MNU in rat mammary glands, DMBA promoted by TPA in mouse skin, and OH-BBN in mouse bladder. The agents tested may be classified into various pharmacological and chemical structural categories that are relevant to their chemopreventive potential. These categories include antiestrogens, antiinflammatories (e.g., NSAIDs), antioxidants, arachidonic acid metabolism inhibitors, GST and GSH enhancers, ODC inhibitors, protein kinase C inhibitors, retinoids and carotenoids, organosulfur compounds, calcium compounds, vitamin D3 and analogs, and phenolic compounds (e.g., flavonoids). The various categories of compounds have different spectra of efficacy in animal models. In hamster lung, GSH-enhancing agents and antioxidants appear to have high potential for inhibiting carcinogenesis. In the colon, NSAIDs and other antiinflammatory agents appear particularly promising. Likewise, NSAIDs are very active in mouse bladder. In rat mammary glands, retinoids and antiestrogens (as would be expected) are efficacious. Several of the chemicals evaluated also appear to be promising chemopreventive agents based on their activity in several of the animal models. Particularly, the ODC inhibitor DFMO was active in the colon, mammary glands, and bladder models, while the dithiolthione, oltipraz, was efficacious in all the models listed above (i.e., lung, colon, mammary glands, skin, and bladder).
Using NDVI from MODIS to monitor duckweed bloom in Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela.

Four summer time-series (2003–2006) of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from MODIS imagery were used to investigate duckweed blooms and other floating vegetation in Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela. Preliminary findings revealed the presence of duckweed and floating vegetation in the Lake during summer in varying amounts (0–11%) that appeared to be related to satellite-derived rainfall anomalies from the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SMM/I) during the previous month. The first appearance of duckweed in abundance in 2004 and its reappearance at similar levels in 2006 may indicate a response to increasing nutrient loading in the lake. The duckweed rafts may be an environmental warning of imminent ecological disaster that needs to be mitigated. MODIS data, with its daily repeat cycle and 250 m pixels showed great potential for monitoring floating vegetation in the lake.
A New Crawfish of the Subfamily Cambarinae From Oregon, U.S.a. (Decapoda, Astacidae)

[Ein neuer - geographisch disjunkt verbreiteter - Fluskrebs Orconectes transfuga wird aus dem Rogue River, Oregon (U.S.A.) beschrieben. Die neue Art ist am engsten verwandt mit den Unter-arten von O. rusticus, welche, zusammen mit allen anderen Vertretern der Cambarinae (mit Ausnahme von drei mexikanischen Procambarus, und Arten die anderswo eingefuhrt worden sind), auf das Gebiet ostlich der Rocky Mountains beschrankt sind. Es ist unwahrscheinlich, das O. transfuga in Oregon einheimisch ist; vermutlich wurde diese Art dort eingeschleppt., Ein neuer - geographisch disjunkt verbreiteter - Fluskrebs Orconectes transfuga wird aus dem Rogue River, Oregon (U.S.A.) beschrieben. Die neue Art ist am engsten verwandt mit den Unter-arten von O. rusticus, welche, zusammen mit allen anderen Vertretern der Cambarinae (mit Ausnahme von drei mexikanischen Procambarus, und Arten die anderswo eingefuhrt worden sind), auf das Gebiet ostlich der Rocky Mountains beschrankt sind. Es ist unwahrscheinlich, das O. transfuga in Oregon einheimisch ist; vermutlich wurde diese Art dort eingeschleppt.]
Management of Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen Toxicoses in Dogs and Cats

Summary Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are commonly used in humans for their analgesic, anti-pyretic, and anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen) effects. Between January 1998 and March 2000, veterinarians at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) consulted on more than 1,050 cases of accidental exposures to acetaminophen and 1,100 cases of ibuprofen ingestion in dogs and cats. Exposures to these medications can have serious effects on the animal's health. Fortunately, with prompt, aggressive treatment and good supportive care, most animals will recover completely.
Research on appling of facts devices in large-scale new energy send-side grid

Aiming at the problem of power transmission capacity constraints in large-scale new energy send-side grid, a possible solution of integrated application of FACTS devices including SVC, SVG has been proposed, which can enhance stability of sending end grid and improve sent ability of new energy. Hexi Power Grid in Gansu province is a typical send-side grid containing 10 million kilowatt wind and solar power, research is carry out on the selection of FACTS devices type, capacity, installation site and control strategy in 1 Hexi Power Grid, The role of FACTS devices on improving large-scale new energy sent out capacity is validated through simulation.
Sequence-specific recognition of double helical RNA and RNA.DNA by triple helix formation.

Abstract The stabilities of eight triple helical pyrimidine.purine.pyrimidine structures comprised of identical sequence but different RNA (R) or DNA (D) strand combinations were measured by quantitative affinity cleavage titration. The differences in equilibrium binding affinities reveal the importance of strand composition. For the sequences studied here, the stabilities of complexes containing a pyrimidine third strand D or R and purine.pyrimidine double helical DD, DR, RD, and RR decrease in order: D + DD, R + DD, R + DR, D + DR > R + RD, R + RR >> D + RR, D + RD (pH 7.0, 25 degrees C, 100 mM NaCl/1 mM spermine). These findings suggest that RNA and DNA oligonucleotides will be useful for targeting (i) double helical DNA and (ii) RNA.DNA hybrids if the purine Watson-Crick strand is DNA. However, RNA, but not DNA, oligonucleotides will be useful for sequence-specific binding of (i) double helical RNA and (ii) RNA.DNA hybrids if the purine Watson-Crick strand is RNA. This has implications for the design of artificial ligands targeted to specific sequences of double helical RNA and RNA.DNA hybrids.
Are fixed limb inertial models valid for dynamic simulations of human movement

During human movement, muscle activation and limb movement result in subtle changes in muscle mass distribution. Muscle mass redistribution can affect limb inertial properties and limb dynamics, but it is not currently known to what extent. The objectives of this study were to investigate: (1) how physiological alterations of muscle and tendon length affect limb inertial characteristics, and (2) how such changes affect dynamic simulations of human movement. To achieve these objectives, a digital model of a human leg, custom software, and Software for interactive musculoskeletal modeling were used to simulate mass redistribution of muscle-tendon structures within a limb segment during muscle activation and joint movement. Thigh and shank center of mass and moments of inertia for different muscle activation and joint configurations were determined and compared. Limb inertial parameters representing relaxed muscles and fully active muscles were input into a simulated straight-leg movement to evaluate the effect inertial parameter variations could have on movement simulation results. Muscle activation and limb movement altered limb segment center of mass and moments of inertia by less than 0.04 cm and 1.2%, respectively. These variations in limb inertial properties resulted in less than 0.01% change in maximum angular velocity for a simulated straight-leg hip flexion task. These data demonstrate that, for the digital human leg model considered, assuming static quantities for segment center of masses and moments of inertia in movement simulations appear reasonable and induce minimal errors in simulated movement dynamics.
Dexamethasone inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell migration via modulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity.

Background. Dexamethasone (DEX) has been shown to inhibit development of neointimal hyperplasia in rats. We hypothesize that DEX inhibits neointimal hyperplasia by altering matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, resulting in inhibition of smooth muscle cell migration. Methods. Rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMC) were harvested and cultured for two to four passages. A migration assay was performed in a Boyden chamber with chemoattractant (platelet-derived growth factor) and varying concentrations of DEX (10−9 to 10−5 M). The number of migrated cells was counted under light microscopy. Zymography was performed on culture media to assess MMP activity, and Western blotting was performed to assay MMP and levels of tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs). Results. DEX progressively inhibited RASMC migration in a dose-dependent fashion. This effect was statistically significant for concentrations of 10−7 to 10−5 M (P < 0.0005). Zymography showed that DEX inhibits MMP-2 activity in a dose-dependent manner. Western blots indicated that total MMP-2 secretion was inhibited and that TIMP-2 secretion was increased by DEX. Conclusions. DEX inhibits platelet-derived growth factor-induced migration of RASMCs and MMP-2 activity in vitro. Our data suggest that DEX suppresses MMP activity and secretion, resulting in the inhibition of smooth muscle cell migration. This may explain the mechanism by which DEX inhibits neointimal hyperplasia.
New modeling and control framework for MEMS characterization utilizing piezoresistive microcantilever sensors

This paper presents a comprehensive modeling and control framework for characterizing MEMS utilizing piezoresistive microcantilevers. These microcantilevers have recently received widespread attention due to their extreme sensitivity and simplicity in a variety of sensing applications. Most of the current studies; however, focus on a simple lumped-parameters representation rather than modeling the piezoresistive microcantilever itself. Due to the applications of the piezoresistive microcantilevers in nanoscale force sensing or non-contact atomic force microscopy with nano-Newton to pico-Newton range force measurement requirement, precise modeling of the piezoresistive microcantilevers is essential. For this, a distributed-parameters modeling is proposed and developed here to arrive at the most complete model of the piezoresistive microcantilever with tip-mass, tip-force and base movement considerations. In order to have online control and real-time sensor feedback, an inverse model of piezoresistive microcantilever is needed which utilizes the output voltage of the piezoresistive layer as well as the base motion information to predict the force acting on the microcantilever's tip. Utilizing a novel approach, an inverse modeling framework and control algorithm are then proposed for the characterization of MEMS utilizing piezoresistive microcantilevers. Following the mathematical modeling and controller design, both numerical simulations and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed distributed- parameters modeling when compared with the previously reported lumped-parameters approach. It is shown that by utilizing the distributed-parameters model rather than lumped-parameters approach and by predicting the exact motion of each point on the microcantilever, the precision of the piezoresistive microcantilever's model is significantly enhanced.
Kinetic and thermodynamic measurements of a two-dimensional gas-liquid phase transition: CCH4 on Ag(110)

Abstract Using time-resolved electron energy loss Spectroscopy coupled with a dual molecular beam technique, we have detected and characterized a two-dimensional methane gas-liquid phase transition on a clean Ag(110) surface. Quasi-equilibrium measurements of adsorption isobars and desorption isotherms are presented. The boundary of the coexistence region, the isosteric heat of adsorption, and the second virial coefficient are determined in temperature range encompassing the critical point. A Lennard-Jones intermolecular potential is determined which is consistent with both the thermodynamic and kinetic measurements.
OLIGODENDROCYTE GENE EXPRESSION IN THE HUMAN FETAL SPINAL CORD DURING THE SECOND TRIMESTER OF GESTATION

A comprehensive evaluation of myelination during normal human development is essential to understand the pathology of congenital diseases of white matter. The present study establishes quantitative values for normal oligodendrocyte-specific gene expression during the early stages of myelination in the human fetal spinal cord. Complementary techniques of Northern and immunoblotting were used to determine relative amounts of oligodendrocyte-specific mRNAs and proteins between 12 and 24 gestational weeks. Values were determined for myelin basic protein, 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase, and proteolipid protein. The relative amount of myelin-associated glycoprotein mRNA was also estimated. To compare gene expression between glial cell types, the relative amounts of mRNA and protein were determined for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a cell-type specific marker for astrocytes. All oligodendrocyte-specific genes expressed similar developmental kinetics. Between 12 and 15 gestational weeks, less than a five-fold increase was detected in the expression of these genes and their protein products. Between 15 and 22 gestational weeks, the relative amounts of mRNA and protein for the myelin genes increased more than 80-fold. The kinetics of GFAP expression were similar to those of the myelin-associated genes. Absolute values for the increase in mass of the human fetal spinal cord were also obtained. These results provide data that may aid in the neuropathologic assessment and characterization of myelin disorders in the preterm, neonatal, and pediatric spinal cord. J. Neurosci. Res. 47:332–340, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Mixing of Two Parallel Streams of Dissimilar Fluids—Part I: Analytical Development

Laminar and turbulent mixing of two parallel streams of dissimilar fluids, using similarity transformation
Genetic analysis of hypertropic mutants of Phycomyces

A new class of Phycomyces behavioral mutants with enhanced tropic responses has been analyzed genetically to determine the number of genes involved and the nature of their expression. These hypertropic mutants carry pleiotropic nuclear mutations. Besides their effects on sensory behavior, they also affect morphology and meiotic processes. Behavioral analyses of heterokaryons containing hypertropic and wild-type nuclei in varying proportions show that the hypertropic mutations in strains L82, L84, L86, and L88 are strongly dominant. Conversely, the hypertropic mutations carried by the strains L83, L85, and L87 are strongly recessive. We performed recombination analyses between hypertropic mutants and mutants with diminished phototropism, affected in the seven genes madA to madG. We found no evidence of linkage between the hypertropic mutations and any of these mad mutations. From crosses, we isolated double mutants carrying hypertropic mutations together with madC (night blind) and madG (stiff) mutations. The behavioral phenotypes of the double mutants are intermediate between those of the parentals. Complementation analyses show that the three recessive hypertropic mutations affect the same gene, which we call madH. The expression of the recessive hypertropic allele becomes dominant in heterokaryons carrying madC and madH nuclei; the madC gene has been implicated separately with the photoreceptor at the input to the sensory pathway, while the madH gene is associated with the growth control output. This result suggests the physical interaction of both gene products, madH and madC, in a molecular complex for the photosensory transduction chain.