cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Alterations of GABAA receptor subunit mRNA levels associated with increases in punished responding induced by acute alprazolam administration: an in situ hybridization study.

Abstract Changes in the mRNA encoding α1, α2, β2 and γ2 subunits of the GABA A receptor associated with the anxiolytic effects of alprazolam were measured in 20 brain regions using in situ hybridization techniques. Compared to non-punished controls, punishment decreased α1 mRNA levels in two nuclei of the amygdala, the cerebral cortex, and the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus and decreased α2 mRNA levels in the hippocampus. Punishment increased β2 mRNA levels in ventroposterior thalamic nucleus and γ2 mRNA levels in the CA2 area of the hippocampus. All of these effects were reversed when alprazolam increased punished responding, while alprazolam alone had no effect on either non-punished responding or GABA A receptor subunit regulation in these brain regions. Some brain regions that were unaffected by punishment were altered by alprazolam plus punishment. These results demonstrate that punishment and alprazolam can produce reciprocal changes in the mRNA levels for some subunits of the GABA A receptor. These changes may alter GABAergic synaptic inhibition by altering the density of GABA A receptors or their efficacy to bind drugs. They suggest that the underlying mechanisms by which drugs affect behavior can depend upon the conditions under which behavior is assessed.
Within-Person Variability in Goal Content and Goal Frame: Amount, Patterns, Antecedents, and Consequences of Variation in Goal Orientation Over Time

Several studies have examined goal fluctuation over time, focusing on variability in goal level. This study investigated within-person variation in goal content and goal frame. Drawing from Motivated Action Theory (DeShon & Gillespie, 2005) we examined variability in goal orientation over time in terms of amount, patterns, antecedents, and consequences. Participants completed a dispositional goal orientation measure and then daily surveys assessing perceptions, behavior, and goal orientation prior to a single performance episode. Results indicated there was substantial within-person variability, there were patterns in this variability involving goal-related behaviors and dispositional goal orientation, and certain patterns predicted exam performance. These findings suggest it may be useful to focus on not only goal level but also goal content and goal frames in future goal regulation research.
Green's function theory of atomic line broadening in plasmas

Abstract A Green's function method is developed for the calculation of the line shape of the radiation from an atom in a plasma. It is shown that the width of the line is proportional to the imaginary part of the reciprocal of the dielectric function of the plasma. The theory includes electron correlations and quantum effects and thus results in convergent expressions for the line shape. It is also shown that for equilibrium plasmas, no resonance in the line shape occurs at frequency separations equal to the plasma frequency.
Evidence for Functional Maturity of the Renal Vascular Dopamine Receptors in Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW) Neonates • 787

By inducing developmentally regulated dose-dependent cardiovascular, renal, and endocrine effects, dopamine (DA) increases blood pressure (BP) and urine output in the hypotensive and/or oliguric neonate (Seri I, J Pediatr 126:333-344, 1995). In adults, the drug-induced selective renal and mesenterial vasodilation contributes to the beneficial effects of DA. However, no study has confirmed the presence of these selective vascular dopaminergic effects in neonates.
Distribution of closely linked markers following intragenic recombination in Escherichia coli.

Abstract Transduction tests selecting for recombination between well-positioned point mutations in the penultimate gene of the tryptophan operon ( trpB ) were examined for the frequency of inclusion of non-selected flanking markers in adjoining genes of the same operon. We found many recombinants having parentally arranged non-selected markers. Ordering of trpB marker pairs by the frequency of appearance of a single non-selected marker (a three-point test) was not always reliable, but the scoring of two non-selected markers, one on either side of the recombinational site, unambiguously indicated the order in every case. With closely linked flanking markers a gradient of increase in frequency of the parental arrangement appeared as the selected markers came closer together. This relation explains why three-point tests are of diminished reliability with very close markers. The recipient parental arrangement outnumbered that of the donor by about three to one. The only exception to the pattern described occurred with one strain, the trpB − marker of which was only about 60 nucleotide pairs away from one of the non-selective markers. Viewed together, the results are interpreted as favoring a conversion -like event as the source of most intragenic recombination. In this event a segment of DNA, 60 to 600 nucleotides in length, is apparently replaced with cross-parental information.
Creating a Campus Based Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

This article provides the reader with information regarding forming a community emergency response team (CERT) at a community college. College public safety departments are efficient entities in or...
Transplant rejection in HLA-identical recipients

Case 1. A 32-yr-old woman was admitted to New England Medical Center Hospital (NEMCH) for renal transplantation from her 27-yr-old brother after 5 months of dialysis treatment. Approximately 8 months earlier, renal biopsy revealed an advanced proliferative crescentic sclerosing glomerulonephritis. Immunofluorescent studies revealed segmental, often peripheral, granular deposition of immunoglobulins (especially IgA and 1gM) and complement (C3). Prednisone therapy was begun, but the patient developed progressive renal failure. Prednisone was discontinued, and chronic hemodialysis was initiated 3 months after the biopsy.
Coherent Confocal Light Absorption and Scattering Spectroscopic Microscopy

We report development of coherent CLASS microscopy which provides dramatically higher spectral contrast compared to the existing incoherent technique. It can non-invasively monitor subcellular dynamics without the need for exogenous agents.
Induction of the expression of profibrotic cytokines and growth factors in normal human peripheral blood monocytes by gadolinium contrast agents.

Objective Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a severe fibrosing disorder occurring in patients with renal insufficiency. The majority of patients with this disorder have documented exposure to magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents containing Gd. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid bismethylamide (Gd[DTPA-BMA]; Omniscan) as compared with Gd-DTPA and GdCl3 on the expression and production of cytokines and growth factors by normal human peripheral blood monocytes in vitro and to examine whether conditioned media from Gd-exposed peripheral blood monocytes could induce a profibrotic phenotype in dermal fibroblasts. Methods Normal human peripheral blood monocytes isolated by Ficoll-Hypaque gradient centrifugation and plastic adherence were incubated with various concentrations of Gd[DTPA-BMA], Gd-DTPA, or GdCl3. Gene expression of interleukins 4, 6, and 13, interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor α, transforming growth factor β, connective tissue growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Production and secretion of cytokines and growth factors by Gd compound–exposed monocytes was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay proteome multiplex arrays. The effects of conditioned media from the Gd compound–exposed monocytes on the phenotype of normal human dermal fibroblasts were examined by real-time PCR and Western blotting. Results The 3 Gd-containing compounds stimulated the expression and production of numerous cytokines and growth factors by normal human peripheral blood monocytes. Conditioned media from these cells induced a profibrotic phenotype in normal human dermal fibroblasts. Conclusion The 3 Gd-containing compounds studied induce potent cellular responses in normal human peripheral blood monocytes, which may participate in the development of tissue fibrosis in NSF.
Effects of ozone on the epithelial and inflammatory responses in the airways: Role of tumor necrosis factor

We have investigated the possibility that tumor necrosis factor α (TNF) plays a role in the increased airway permeability and an inflammatory response following an acute ozone (O3) exposure. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were injected, intraperitoneally, with either rabbit anti‐mouse antibody to TNF (anti‐TNF) or preimmune rabbit serum, 2 h before a 3‐h exposure to O3 or purified air. Permeability, as determined by [99mTc] diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTPA) transport, total protein and albumin concentrations in the bron‐choalveolar lavage (BAL), and the inflammatory cell response in the BAL were assessed 10 h after the exposure was completed. The O3‐exposed group that was injected with anti‐TNF showed a significant decrease in permeability to DTPA in comparison to the O3‐exposed group injected with preimmune rabbit serum. There was no difference between the anti‐TNF group and the purified air group. In contrast, the total protein and albumin levels in the BAL were significantly greater in both of the O3‐ex...
Simultaneous identification of linear systems: A heuristic approach

Abstract The problem of simultaneous system identification is posed and an efficient algorithm for its solution is formulated. Our algorithm is a blend of an A ∗ search together with Simulated Annealing. The proposed algorithm returns the optimal solution while the number of required operations is usually much smaller than any other brute-force algorithm.
An Inertial Guidance System Field Test Program for a Ballistic Missile Weapon System

A field test program for an inertial guidance system can easily extend from coast to coast and will require large numbers of experienced personnel and equipments. Included in the field test program are Sled Tests, Captive Tests, Flight Test, Operational Tests and Contractor Liaison. These areas of tests are described and objectives are reviewed and discussed.
Protein folding: a good structure protector is also a good structure seeker

Protein structure does not prevail unless it is properly wrapped or protected from water attack. Here we show that this building constraint bears dramatically on the folding kinetics. Rates are strongly correlated with the extent to which the wrapping of native structure relies on the local organization of the chain, while contacts engaging distant residues in the chain and not contributing to secondary structure wrapping are statistically insignificant.
Function and physical properties of two distinct forms of the first component of guinea pig complement.

Abstract Both types of partially purified guinea pig C1 (first component of complement), prepared by solubility chromatography at low ionic strength and pH 7·5, are obtained in activated form. In contrast to C1 in whole serum, both produce linear dose response curves. The more soluble of the two, Type A, fails to bind to antigen-antibody complexes, is physically heterogeneous, and is smaller is size than the other, Type B. The evidence suggests that Type A, which cannot be detected in whole serum, arises by degradation during purification.
Use of self-operated auditory prompts to decrease aberrant behaviors in students with moderate mental retardation

We examined the effectiveness of self-operated auditory prompts when used to decrease the off-task and aberrant behaviors of two students with moderate mental retardation. Its purpose was to determine if self-operated auditory prompts could be effectively used by these individuals to decrease their off-task and aberrant behaviors in work settings and during transitional times between settings. A multiple-probe across settings design with a reversal and replication was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the self-operated auditory prompting system on aberrant student behaviors in school and community settings. Previous findings were replicated in this study that demonstrate that stimulus control can be achieved through the use of self-operated auditory prompts, and demonstrates that these prompts can serve to occasion a decrease in aberrant behaviors when used by individuals with moderate mental retardation in school and community settings.
Manny's legacy: paying forward my personal therapy.

The lessons of childhood will often last a lifetime. Two lessons that I learned early in life were that loss can occur quickly, unexpectedly, and have monumental consequences such as when my father died when I was 9 years old. I also learned that losses can be assuaged or mitigated in many ways, not the least of which would be the replacement of my father with a father figure, who filled the needs of an adolescent and later an adult with a role model, keen insights, and emotional support. This article traces my experiences with personal therapy and addresses how lessons learned can be used and passed on to succeeding generations comprised of one's children and, in my case, my patients and students for the past 45 years. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 67:1–5, 2011.
A study examining intravenous ethanol-conditioned place preference in C57BL/6J mice.

The reinforcing effects of intravenous (I.V.) ethanol were examined in C57BL/6J (C57) mice with a conditioned-place-preference (CPP) paradigm. Before CPP testing, adult mice underwent jugular catheterization. On the following day, subjects were acclimated to a two-compartment CPP chamber. A 15-min nondrug pretest was conducted to determine compartment preference. For the treatment group, I.V. ethanol [30% (v/v), 3.4 microl/min, 25 min] was paired with the nonpreferred compartment, whereas I.V. saline was paired with the preferred compartment. The control group received I.V. saline in both compartments. Two conditioning sessions were conducted per day (0900 and 1500), and the order of the infusions was counterbalanced across subjects. The drug-free posttest was identical to the pretest, except that it occurred on the day after the final drug/compartment pairing. The entire procedure required 6 days. After just two pairings with ethanol, with a cumulative ethanol dose of only 0.82 g/kg/day, significant CPP was noted in the treatment group, whereas no change in compartment preference was noted for the control group. A separate group of C57 mice were trained to discriminate intraperitoneal ethanol (1.5 g/kg) from saline using a two-lever drug discrimination paradigm. After training was complete, these mice also underwent jugular catheterization. Substitution testing was conducted with I.V. ethanol [30% (v/v), 6.4 microl/min, 12 min] and saline. The results indicate that the subjective effects of ethanol did not differ according to the route of administration. Together, these experiments provide evidence that ethanol is rewarding for C57 mice, as indexed by ethanol CPP, and that the subjective effects of intravenously and intraperitoneally administered ethanol are similar.
Ethnic Management in the 1979 Nigerian Constitution

Nigeria, the most populous African nation, is also the most heterogeneous. The desire to contain the many ethnic groups within the framework of one united country has necessitated political experiments of federalism and, even for a brief while, unitarism. A thirty-month war was fought to prevent secession and then a constitutional compact was drawn up to secure the unity of the country. The constitution sought to guarantee ethnic equality and equal ethnic opportunities in governments, political parties, and nongovernment public establishments. All government and parastatal organizations had to reflect the plural composition or the federal character of the nation. It was a very ingenious device, but did not fully succeed in neutralizing divisive ethnic passions.
On the Measurement of Noise Parameters of Microwave Two-Ports (Short Paper)

A novel procedure for determining the noise parameters of microwave two-ports is introduced. In this procedure, the computations necessary to find the noise parameters from the set of measurements of noise temperature (noise figure) are greatly simplified. The assessment of accuracy with which the noise parameters can he determined from a given set of measurement data is straightforward.
Influence of the crude oil resin/asphaltene ratio on the stability of oil/water emulsions

Abstract During the production of crude oil, water/oil emulsions are formed. They are stabilized by asphaltenes and resins which are colloidally dispersed in the crude oil. Asphaltenes consist mainly of polar heterocompounds. It is known that they decrease the interfacial tension between oil and water and form stable interfacial films. Both effects favour the formation and stabilization of emulsions. Crude oil resins consist mainly of hydrocarbons. Their interfacial activity is less than that of asphaltenes, and they are known to peptize the asphaltenes. Their influence on the formation and stability of emulsions in the presence of asphaltenes is, however, not well understood. This study investigates the influence of resins from different crude oils as well as of different resin/asphaltene ratios dissolved in decahydronaphthaline as model system on • colloidal stability of model oils • interfacial tension between model oil and distilled water • stability of emulsions formed from model oils and brine • effectiveness of demulsifiers • viscosity and droplet size distribution of emulsions It was found that (1) the influence of resins in the presence of asphaltenes on the properties of emulsions is independent of the origin of the resins, i.e. of the oil, from which they are obtained, and (2) high resin/asphaltene ratios decrease the emulsion stability.
A review of 1500 consecutive skin malignancy excisions: the East Lancashire experience

Introduction:The objective of the study was to determine any clinical or patient perceived benefit to using a wide bore nasogastric (NG) tube following a head and neck oncological resection. (Ethical approval received). Fine bore tubes get blocked following use and sometimes require removal and replacing. Wide bore tubes have the advantage of minimal blockage they can be more uncomfortable. Variation exists between head and neck surgeons as to which NG is used. Materials/Methods: Patients assigned randomly to those having a wide bore NG tube or a fine bore tube. There are two treatment groups. Collection of information required the use of three forms. The first form was completed by surgeon/anaesthetist placing NG tube, the second by nursing staff on the ward and the third by patients on removal of the NG tube. Each form has a study reference number to allow the information to be collated. 32 patients were included in the study. 17 had a wide bore tube, 15 had narrow bore. Results/Statistics: Statistical analysis is ongoing, however the trend reveals that wide bore tubes never blocked and never needed to be replaced for this reason. Patients however found them more uncomfortable. Narrow bore tubes frequently blocked with increased time demands on nurses/team to unblock/replace, with increased radiographical exposure. Conclusion/relevance:Given the increased risk of blocking of narrow bore NG tubes it is our view that where tolerated a wide bore NG tube should be used for feeding purposes in the post operative period.
Revascularization for Unclippable Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysms: Extracranial-Intracranial or Intracranial-Intracranial Bypass?

neurysms involving the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) usually are dysmorphic with a lesser inciA dence of saccular anatomy, a greater incidence of fusiform or dolichoectatic pathology, and more frequent distal locations on the parent artery, relative to other anterior circulation aneurysms (9). Consequently, PICA aneurysms are more likely to be unclippable and require alternative occlusive techniques, such as trapping, that might require a bypass (9). In the current issue of WORLD NEUROSURGERY, Park et al. used the occipital artery-toPICA (OA-PICA) bypass to treat 7 complex PICA aneurysms with excellent angiographic and clinical results (6). All aneurysms were obliterated completely without recurrence, 6 bypasses remained patent at long-term angiographic follow-up, and all but one patient was symptom-free (modified Rankin Score 0) (6). Their technique is conventional: harvesting the occipital artery from the suboccipital musculature through the “hockey-stick” incision of the far-lateral approach. In addition to 4 aneurysms involving the PICA origin and 2 distal PICA aneurysms, the authors treated a collateral artery aneurysm that originated on angiogenic vessels after vertebral artery occlusion. This later aneurysm is an unusual one that we have seen previously as well (8). The authors’ report raises the issue of which type of bypass to perform for these unusual PICA aneurysms: extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass with OA-PICA bypass or intracranial-intracranial bypass with 1 of 4 different reconstructive techniques. Our answer differs from the authors and we have come to favor IC-IC techniques.
Electric Field-Mediated Processing of Biomaterials: Toward Nanostructured Biomimetic Systems

Significant opportunities exist for the processing of synthetic and biological polymers using electric fields ('electroprocessing'). We review casting of multi-component films and the spinning of fibers in electric fields, and indicate opportunities for the creation of smart polymer systems using these approaches. Applications include 2-D substrates for cell growth and diagnostics, scaffolds for tissue engineering and repair, and electromechanically active biosystems.
Toxicity and kinetics of [3H]microcystin-LR in isolated perfused rat livers

Isolated rat livers were perfused for 60 min with either 0.3 or 0.5 microgram/ml (initial volume, 119 ml) of [3H]microcystin-LR at a constant flow of 10 ml/min in a recirculating system. During the 60-min exposure, toxin caused stimulation of glycogenolysis, liver engorgement, and cessation of bile flow. Electron micrographs of liver showed dilation of bile canaliculi and the space of Disse. loss of sinusoidal lining architecture, and decreased hepatocyte intercellular contacts. Although hepatocytes did not exhibit overt necrosis, mitochondria were hydropic, occasionally encircled by whorls of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and desmosomal tonofilaments were decreased on the plasma membrane lateral surface. Isolated mitochondria displayed inhibition of state 3 respiration and a 50-60% decrease in the respiratory control index, characteristic of hydropism. Distribution of radiolabel was 1.7% to bile, 79% to perfusate, and 16% to liver. Two to four percent was recovered in perfusate that leaked from the surface of the liver. Of the radiolabel found in bile and perfusate, 78 and 100% were associated with parent toxin, respectively. The radiolabel in liver, associated with the cytosolic fraction (S-100), corresponded to parent toxin (15%) and to a more-polar component(s) (85%). The elimination half-life from perfusate was 130 +/- 10 min (0.5 microgram/ml) and the hepatic extraction ratio 0.07 +/- 0.01. Although the calculated hepatic extraction ratio was low, there was a significant accumulation of microcystin in the liver. Many toxic effects of microcystin in the perfused liver mimicked those observed in the whole animal, suggesting that this model can be used as an alternative to whole animals for screening of potential therapeutic agents.
Employee reactions to electronic performance monitoring: A consequence of organizational culture

Abstract Research recognizes that reactions to monitoring may be moderated by several factors, but ignores the role of organizational culture. This paper argues that bureaucratic cultures will respond more favorably to monitoring than supportive cultures. Involving employees in designing the system, monitoring groups, and restricting monitoring to performance-related activities may improve attitudes toward monitoring in supportive cultures.
Adaptive compression algorithm results for complex synthetic aperture radar data

Research conducted on complex Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data over the last two years has culminated in the development of a compression algorithm1 compatible with current imagery standards. This new algorithm also includes adaptive attributes which identify the radar data type, data characteristics, and then selects optimal quantization parameters, generated based on the statistics of the data, from a knowledge base. This algorithm has achieved near-lossless compression ratios in excess of 20 to 1, with reduced Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and increased Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR). This algorithm also produces minimal degradation when producing phase-derived radar products. This paper describes the algorithm development, operation, and test results obtained using this compression algorithm., The algorithm component elements are described including the use of an adaptive preprocessor, modified quantizer, and knowledge base. This paper details the improved results observed for compressed data, magnitude imagery, and phase-derived products generated during the study.
Evaluation of ferromagnetism and magnetic resonance imaging artifacts of the Strecker tantalum vascular stent.

A woven tantalum vascular stent (Strecker stent) was tested for ferromagnetism at 4.7 T and underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)in vitro andin vivo at 1.5 T to evaluate the production of magnetic susceptibility artifacts. No ferromagnetism was detected. Spin-echo, phase reconstruction, and gradient echo images revealed a low level of susceptibility artifacts bothin vitro andin vivo. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of using MRI to evaluate blood vessels noninvasively following tantalum stent placement.
New aspects of melanocortin signaling: A role for PRCP in α-MSH degradation

The role of the central melanocortin system in the regulation of energy metabolism has received much attention during the past decade since gene mutations of key components in melanocortin signaling cause monogenic forms of obesity in animals and humans. In the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus the prohormone proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is posttranslationally cleaved to produce α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a peptide with anorexigenic effects upon activation of the melanocortin receptors (MCRs). α-MSH undergoes extensive post-translational processing and its in vivo activity is short lived due to rapid degradation. The enzymatic process that controls α-MSH inactivation is incompletely understood. Recent evidence suggests that prolyl carboxypeptidase (PRCP) is an enzyme responsible for α-MSH degradation. As for many key melanocortin peptides, gene mutation of PRCP causes a change in the metabolic phenotype of rodents. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the melanocortin system with particular focus on PRCP, a newly discovered component of the melanocortin system.
Trust and gender: An examination of behavior and beliefs in the Investment Game

How does gender influence trust, the likelihood of being trusted and the level of trustworthiness? We compare choices by men and women in the Investment Game and use questionnaire data to try to understand the motivations for the behavioral differences. We find that men trust more than women, and women are more trustworthy than men. The relationship between expected return and trusting behavior is stronger among men than women, suggesting that men view the interaction more strategically than women. Women felt more obligated both to trust and reciprocate, but the impact of obligation on behavior varies.
Approach to Seizures, Epilepsies, and Epilepsy Syndromes

Seizures and epilepsies present with multiple etiologies and multiple clinical features and change across the lifespan. Epilepsy is not a single disease but a diverse group of disorders that have in common an abnormally increased predisposition to epileptic seizures. A systematic approach to epileptic seizures and epilepsies is a first step toward the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. Determination of clinical seizure type, epilepsy localization, underlying etiology, related medical conditions, and, if possible, epilepsy syndrome follows the general neurologic approach in clinical practice, including description of symptomatic presentation, localization, and etiologic investigation. Description of findings is crucial for selection of the most helpful diagnostic and therapeutic approach, defining relationships to sleep and sleep-related interactions, and comorbidities. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions are used:
Single-Molecule Analysis of Cytochrome c Folding by Monitoring the Lifetime of an Attached Fluorescent Probe.

Conformational dynamics of proteins are important for function. However, obtaining information about specific conformations is difficult for samples displaying heterogeneity. Here, time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer is used to characterize the folding of single cytochrome c molecules. In particular, measurements of the fluorescence lifetimes of individual cytochrome c molecules labeled with a single dye that is quenched by energy transfer to the heme were used to monitor conformational transitions of the protein under partially denaturing conditions. These studies indicate significantly more conformational heterogeneity than has been described previously. Importantly, the use of a purified singly labeled sample made a direct comparison to ensemble data possible. The distribution of lifetimes of single proteins was compared to the distribution of lifetimes determined from analysis of ensemble lifetime fluorescence data. The results show broad agreement between single-molecule and ensemble...
Volume-area distributions for micropores

A comparison of micropore size distributions in the range below 100 A has been made for a silica gel sample, using the results of exact and approximate Barrett, Joyner & Halenda computations and of the recently proposed method of Dollimore & Heal. A number of discrepancies were noted between the results of the computations; in particular, while total surface areas obtained from the determinations of Barrett, Joyner & Halenda were within 2% of the BET surface area, the value from the Dollimore & Heal computation was about 20% smaller. The various methods which have been proposed for pore size distribution are essentially the same in theory; discrepancies such as those noted in this work are attributed to the differing values of adsorbed multilayer thickness used in the calculations. Although there is little agreement among the published correlations of multilayer thickness for nitrogen adsorption, the Halsey eqauation which is employed by Dollimore & Heal, lies well above other correlations and must be regarded as of questionable value in distribution computations. A satisfactory multilayer thickness correlation should provide a means of accounting for the effects of pore structure and non-ideal adsorption; the approach suggested by Mingle & Smith may be promising in this direction.
Optical coherence tomography for characterization of cardiac allograft vasculopathy after heart transplantation (OCTCAV study)

Background Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a novel intravascular imaging modality with excellent spatial resolution. This study explored the utility of OCT in cardiac transplantation for the detection and characterization of early changes associated with coronary allograft vasculopathy (CAV). Methods Fifteen consecutive patients, 1 to 4 years after transplant with no angiographic evidence of CAV, underwent successful OCT imaging using the Fourier-domain OCT system (C7-XR, St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN) in the left anterior descending artery. Analysis included measurements of the lumen, intima, and media layers, and characterization of atherosclerotic plaques. Patients were stratified by intima-to-media (I/M) ratio and classified as normal (≤1) or abnormal (>1). Results Patients were a mean of 2.8 years after transplant, 58 years old, and 92% were men. OCT imaging revealed 8 of 15 patients had intimal hyperplasia with an I/M ratio >1. Comparing those with I/M ratio of ≤1 and >1, the median (interquartile range) intimal thickness was greater (75 [70–101] vs 206 [97–269]μm, p = 0.03), whereas the media thickness was no different (72 [70–103] vs 94 [73–113]μm, p = 0.53). In addition, 7 of 15 patients had lipid-rich or calcified atherosclerotic plaques. Conclusions OCT provides high-resolution quantitative imaging of the coronary arteries and its use allows for detailed assessment of the coronary artery wall and early morphologic changes that occur after cardiac transplantation. The clinical predictive value of these OCT-derived measurements remains to be determined.
Knit-in 3D mapping's effect on thermoregulation: preliminary results

This study explored knit-in 3D mapping's influence on thermal comfort under different environmental conditions when in next-to-skin (NTS) garments. It was hypothesised that the knit-in raised geometric shapes would modify the microclimate in the torso region, allowing for better thermal management and keeping the wearer more comfortable than an identical NTS shirt without mapping. Thermal images were taken of the front and back torso regions of the NTS garments worn in wearer trials while exercising under hot and cold conditions. The data suggested that an NTS shirt with no mapping tended to regulate skin temperatures better under hot conditions, while an NTS shirt with knit-in mapping regulated skin temperatures better in cold environments. Skin and exterior garment temperature changes indicated that an NTS shirt with knit-in mapping retained more heat inside the garment, providing better insulative performance under cold conditions.
The aggregation of colloidal particles at the air—water interface

Abstract Previous investigators have noted that small particles at a fluid interface may exhibit a special tendency to aggregate. Colloidal dispersions which are stable in the bulk often form a coagulum at the air—liquid surface. Such surface aggregation is an important factor in operations that require clean or controlled interfaces. The present work seeks to describe particle adsorption and aggregation at the air—water interface in quiescent systems. A model is proposed for two-dimensional rapid aggregation as well as for slow surface aggregation dependent upon modified van der Waals and electrostatic interactions between particles at the surface. Experimental results from direct observation by darkfield microscopy of particle adsorption and surface aggregation are reported and found to be in qualitative agreement with the model predictions.
Electron-Spin-Resonance Investigation of Chromium Ions in NaCl

The electron-spin-resonance spectrum of Cr ions in NaCl is examined. After x irradiation, a spectrum is identified belonging to ions of ${\mathrm{Cr}}^{+}(3{d}^{5})$ in sites of cubic symmetry. The $g$ value, fine structure, and hyperfine splitting are determined, and compared with the corresponding values in the case of NaF. In addition, the unirradiated crystals yield a spectrum attributed to ${\mathrm{Cr}}^{2+}(3{d}^{4})$ ions in noncubic sites of several types.
Reduced long-term respiratory morbidity after treatment of respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis with ribavirin in previously healthy infants: a preliminary report

Previously healthy infants less than 6 months of age with severe respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis who required hospitalization were identified from hospital records. Infants had been treated either conservatively (control group, n = 19) or with ribavirin added to conservative management (study group, n = 22). All infants underwent a 1-year follow-up after the initial illness. There was a significant reduction in the prevalence of reactive airway disease in the group treated with ribavirin (P < 0.05) compared with the control group, both in terms of the proportion of patients developing airway reactivity (59% vs. 89%) and the number of episodes of reactive airway disease (31 vs. 70). Our data suggest that ribavirin reduces the prevalence of airway reactivity.
Primitive attempt to turn images into percepts

Images are about pictures. Percepts are about information. People need images. Machines do not. This paper suggests that it may be possible for machines to perceive things, not just register images in real time. This goal inspired our search for methods that might work in real time to perceive their world. In our brains, the image is processed separately in different parts of the brain, and the results of those parallel operations are somehow fused to form the percept. We have done extensive development of a spectral segmentation of images using “Artificial Color” based on the way animals use spectral information. That research showed that there is a massively parallel approach to recognize targets or their background using Fourier texture discrimination. In this paper, a Fourier-based system that uses nonlinear discrimination to recognize shape, size, pose, and location of a target in a scene is discussed. The sought-after conversion of that information into an Artificial Percept in which a “cartoon” of the situation is formed with labeled targets giving their appearance (pose and size) and location. This is a primitive percept. The machine no longer has an image. Instead it “knows” what targets of interest are in the field, where they are, and their range and pose.
Nutritional management of patients with urea cycle disorders

The nutritional management of patients with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) involves restriction of dietary protein along with provision of adequate protein-free energy, essential amino acid supplements, and vitamins and minerals in combination with nitrogen-scavenging drugs. The present paper discusses nutrition therapy for a range of circumstances: during an acute hyperammonaemic episode and at hospital discharge; before, during, and after surgery; and for lifelong chronic management of UCDs.
What is the Clinical Utility of Routine Cardiac Catheterization Before a Fontan Operation

Patients with single-ventricle circulation presenting for Fontan completion routinely undergo cardiac catheterization despite ongoing debate concerning its additive value. Increasing interest in noninvasive preoperative evaluation alone led the authors to analyze the utility of routine pre-Fontan catheterization and to determine whether a subset of patients could avoid this invasive procedure. Patients younger than 5 years referred for pre-Fontan evaluation were retrospectively reviewed. Medical records and catheter angiograms were examined, and catheterizations were categorized as “additive” based on predetermined criteria. Associations between precatheterization variables, catheterization findings, and short-term postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Cardiac catheterization was clinically nonadditive for 89 of 175 patients undergoing pre-Fontan evaluation (51%). There were no robust precatheterization predictors of a nonadditive catheterization. Echocardiography did not fully demonstrate the relevant anatomy of 115 patients (66%), most frequently due to inadequate visualization of the pulmonary arteries, and 22 patients had additive catheterizations due to new diagnostic findings alone. Interventions at catheterization were frequent and deemed “important” for 64 patients (37%). Catheterization hemodynamic data were not associated with early postoperative outcomes. Minor catheterization complications occurred for 51 patients (29%) and major complications for 4 patients (2%). Although at least 50% of the patients presenting for Fontan completion may be able to avoid routine catheterization safely, an echocardiography-based imaging strategy alone is insufficient to allow proper identification of those who could be evaluated noninvasively. A more comprehensive imaging strategy not based solely on echocardiography should be considered.
Increased inducibility of ventricular tachycardia and decreased heart rate variability in a mouse model for type 1 diabetes: effect of pravastatin.

Although a reduction in the high-frequency (HF) component of heart rate variability (HRV) is a major complication of diabetes and a risk factor for sudden death, its relationship to ventricular tac...
An introduction to MPL - A new machining process/Programming language

This paper introduces a language called MPL for representing machining process plans, and an experimental MPL translator called XMPL. MPL may be regarded as either an output language for automatic process planning programs, or as a high-level manual programming language for machining centers. This paper summarizes the concepts underlying the language and the facilities supported by the current processor. A typical machining plan (or program) in MPL is a sequence of setup and machining statements. Setup statements specify mainly positioning operations through stock and fixture feature-matching relations. Machining statements specify removal operations on features of the part. XMPL translates MPL programs into NC part programs and rigid motions for setup. The MPL/XMPL system requires a solid modeller (currently PADL-2) as a central utility processor, and the system's "machining versatility" is set mainly by the modeller's geometric coverage.
Dual-modality, fluorescent, PLGA encapsulated bismuth nanoparticles for molecular and cellular fluorescence imaging and computed tomography

Reports of molecular and cellular imaging using computed tomography (CT) are rapidly increasing. Many of these reports use gold nanoparticles. Bismuth has similar CT contrast properties to gold while being approximately 1000-fold less expensive. Herein we report the design, fabrication, characterization, and CT and fluorescence imaging properties of a novel, dual modality, fluorescent, polymer encapsulated bismuth nanoparticle construct for computed tomography and fluorescence imaging. We also report on cellular internalization and preliminary in vitro and in vivo toxicity effects of these constructs. 40 nm bismuth(0) nanocrystals were synthesized and encapsulated within 120 nm Poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles by oil-in-water emulsion methodologies. Coumarin-6 was co-encapsulated to impart fluorescence. High encapsulation efficiency was achieved ∼70% bismuth w/w. Particles were shown to internalize within cells following incubation in culture. Bismuth nanocrystals and PLGA encapsulated bismuth nanoparticles exhibited >90% and >70% degradation, respectively, within 24 hours in acidic, lysosomal environment mimicking media and both remained nearly 100% stable in cytosolic/extracellular fluid mimicking media. μCT and clinical CT imaging was performed at multiple X-ray tube voltages to measure concentration dependent attenuation rates as well as to establish the ability to detect the nanoparticles in an ex vivo biological sample. Dual fluorescence and CT imaging is demonstrated as well. In vivo toxicity studies in rats revealed neither clinically apparent side effects nor major alterations in serum chemistry and hematology parameters. Calculations on minimal detection requirements for in vivo targeted imaging using these nanoparticles are presented. Indeed, our results indicate that these nanoparticles may serve as a platform for sensitive and specific targeted molecular CT and fluorescence imaging.
Demand for prescription drugs under non-linear pricing in Medicare Part D

We estimate the price elasticity of prescription drug use in Medicare Part D, which features a non-linear price schedule due to a coverage gap. We analyze patterns of drug utilization prior to the coverage gap, where the “effective price” is higher than the actual copayment for drugs because consumers anticipate that more spending will make them more likely to reach the gap. We find that enrollees’ total pre-gap drug spending is sensitive to their effective prices: the estimated price elasticity of drug spending ranges between $$-$$ 0.14 and $$-$$ 0.36. This finding suggests that filling in the coverage gap, as mandated by the health care reform legislation passed in 2010, will influence drug utilization prior to the gap. A simulation analysis indicates that closing the gap could increase Part D spending by a larger amount than projected, with additional pre-gap costs among those who do not hit the gap.
Bipolar timing modeling including interconnects based on parametric correction

The authors present an approach for the analytical timing model development of bipolar VLSI circuits. The approach is based on the development of the delay functions of three basic bipolar subcircuits. It is shown that accurate timing information for two high-speed digital circuit constructs, ECL (emitter coupled logic) and BiCMOS, can be obtained by repeated processing of these subcircuit delay functions. The timing models have been shown to be accurate typically within 10% of SPICE's estimates with up to three orders of speedup for large-scale BJT (bipolar junction transistor) circuits. >
Armature Motion Damping of Superconducting Generators

Armature motion damping offers a means for improving the dynamic performance of superconducting turbogenerators, perhaps to the extent of allowing the use of cold, relatively loss-free rotor shielding. The scheme consists of allowing the armature winding to rotate against a spring and dashpot. This paper is an investigation of the dynamic characteristics of a machine constructed in this way. An approximate model is proposed and used to estimate damping effectiveness and energy storage and dissipation requirements. A more detailed model confirms and extends the results.
Animal Species Dependent Liposome Clearance

Liposomes, upon entering the blood circulation, tend to be rapidly removed from blood by the reticuloendothelial system, mainly the macrophages of the liver and spleen. Concerning liposome uptake by the liver, two different mechanisms are found, one involves serum opsonin and the other does not. For serum dependent clearance, the complement components such as C3 are likely to serve as the opsonins. It is the opsonization process that determines the rate of liposome clearance. For serum independent mechanism, however, the affinity of membrane receptors of the liver macrophages for the head group of lipids in liposomes appears to be dominant factor. More importantly, it is evident that liposome clearance and their underlying mechanisms are animal species dependent.
Effect of Surface Roughness on the Acid Etching of Amorphous Silica

The effect of the root-mean-square (rms) roughness on the acid etching of roughened amorphous silica was studied as a function of time using atomic force microscopy and laser light scattering. The initial size and distribution of micrometer-sized surface flaws are shown to influence the time evolution of the etching by hydrofluoric acid. The increase in the optical transparency of the samples is linked to the large increases in the correlation lengths of the sample surfaces, an effect which counteracts the accompanying rise in the rms roughness.