cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sonography of the normal fetal heart : A practical approach

R outine prenatal sonography of the fetal heart during the second and third trimesters has traditionally been limited to the four-chamber view. In recent years, the addition of great vessel imaging has been proposed as critical for improved prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease. When images of the aortic and pulmonary outflow tracts are included in the fetal cardiac examination, an additional 25% of the congenital heart anomalies are detected than are diagnosed by the four-chamber view alone [151. However, obtaining these additional images has not become a standard part of the examination for sonography practitioners. One explanation for the lack of expansion of the cardiac survey may be the perceived difficulty in obtaining images of the outflow tracts. Neither physicians nor sonographers have a resource that clearly explains the maneuvers needed to obtain these views. The purpose of this essay is to describe and provide illustrations of the sonographic techniques that can be used to perform a more complete fetal cardiac survey during routine obstetric sonography. This method uses the imager’s knowledge of anatomy, chest radiography, and chest CT to provide the groundwork required to understand and perform the essentials of prenatal cardiac examination.
Vortex-scalar element calculations of a diffusion flame stabilized on a plane mixing layer

The vortex-scalar element method, a scheme which utilizes vortex elements to discretize the region of high vorticity and scalar elements to represent species or temperature fields, is utilized in the numerical simulations of a two-dimensional reacting mixing layer. Computations are performed for a diffusion flame at high Reynolds and Peclet numbers without resorting to turbulence models. In the nonreacting flow, the mean and fluctuation profiles of a conserved scalar show good agreement with experimental measurements. Results for the reacting flow indicate that for temperature independent kinetics, the chemical reaction begins immediately downstream of the splitter plate where mixing starts. Results for the reacting flow with Arrhenius kinetics show an ignition delay, which depends on reactant temperature, before significant chemical reaction occurs. Harmonic forcing changes the structure of the layer, and concomitantly the rates of mixing and reaction, in accordance with experimental results. Strong stretch within the braids in the nonequilibrium kinetics case causes local flame quenching due to the temperature drop associated with the large convective fluxes.
Screen-printed high performance aluminum and polymer pastes for n-type solar cells

This paper presents high performance Al pastes for n-type solar cells with p-type backside. These pastes were screen printed and subsequently fired in a belt furnace to form rear-Al emitters. Internal Quantum Efficiency (IQE), and full I-V curve characterization and curve fitting to investigate leakage currents were carried out to study the effect of glass frits, additives and firing profiles. The paste performance including bow and adhesion are also presented. This paper also presents a screen printable, low temperature curable conductive polymer paste and its application in n-type solar cell fabrication. The solderable polymer paste enables full Al coverage of the back surface. Its excellent adhesion and low contact resistivity to Al allow it to be used as rear Ag busbar.
Molecular characterization of a gene encoding a cysteine-rich protein preferentially expressed in anthers of Lycopersicon esculentum

The tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) cDNA clone TomA5B was isolated by differential screening of a cDNA library prepared from anthers at late meiosis to tetrad formation. The 5B gene is present in a single copy in the tomato genome. Expression is developmentally regulated and tissue specific. RNA accumulation was detected from premeiosis through tetrad release in the tapetal cell layer of the anther with low levels of RNA detected in petals and early stages of pistil development. The protein deduced from the DNA sequence analysis is predicted to have a molecular mass of 11.1 kDa and a secretory signal sequence, suggesting it is a secreted protein. The deduced 5B protein has a pattern of cysteine residues that is similar to other proteins that have stamen-specific expression and to a superfamily of seed proteins. The 5B protein is unique in that there is no amino acid sequence similarity to other proteins beyond the similar cysteine motif.
Serological identities of proteases and alkaline phosphatases of the so-called nonagglutinable (NAG) vibrios and those of Vibrio cholerae.

produces tends to become widespread in times of social unrest, and its rapid identification is an important step in the worldwide effort to contain this epidemic. In the taxonomy of vibrios, the most serious problem concerns definition of the species V. cholerae on the basis of its somatic antigens. The agglutinating antisera are usually prepared with the classical Inaba, Ogawa, and Hikojima types, and those vibrios that fail to agglutinate with these sera are designated "nonagglutinable" (NAG) vibrios [1-3]. Some of these vibrios have been isolated from cases of
Erk1 Positively Regulates Osteoclast Differentiation and Bone Resorptive Activity

The extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1 and 2) are widely-expressed and they modulate proliferation, survival, differentiation, and protein synthesis in multiple cell lineages. Altered ERK1/2 signaling is found in several genetic diseases with skeletal phenotypes, including Noonan syndrome, Neurofibromatosis type 1, and Cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, suggesting that MEK-ERK signals regulate human skeletal development. Here, we examine the consequence of Erk1 and Erk2 disruption in multiple functions of osteoclasts, specialized macrophage/monocyte lineage-derived cells that resorb bone. We demonstrate that Erk1 positively regulates osteoclast development and bone resorptive activity, as genetic disruption of Erk1 reduced osteoclast progenitor cell numbers, compromised pit formation, and diminished M-CSF-mediated adhesion and migration. Moreover, WT mice reconstituted long-term with Erk1−/− bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) demonstrated increased bone mineral density as compared to recipients transplanted with WT and Erk2−/− BMMNCs, implicating marrow autonomous, Erk1-dependent osteoclast function. These data demonstrate Erk1 plays an important role in osteoclast functions while providing rationale for the development of Erk1-specific inhibitors for experimental investigation and/or therapeutic modulation of aberrant osteoclast function.
Dilantin and folic acid status. Clinical implications for the periodontist.

Periodontal therapy should involve an assessment of the patient's nutritional status. Anticonvulsant drugs play an important role in folic acid deficiency. Individuals with gingival hyperplasia are most commonly seen by the periodontist and correction of their nutrient deficiency should be an integral aspect of treatment.
Comparison of levels of inflammatory mediators IL-1β and βG in gingival crevicular fluid from molars, premolars, and incisors during rapid palatal expansion

Introduction: Previously, we reported fluctuation of the levels of the inflammatory mediators interleukin-1β (ΙL-1β) and β-glucuronidase (βG) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from the maxillary first molars in adolescents undergoing rapid palatal expansion. In this study, we compared the responses of IL-1β and βG in the GCF of the maxillary first molars, first premolars, and central incisors during palatal expansion at the same patients. Methods: Nine patients requiring palatal expansion were selected at the postdoctoral orthodontic clinic at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Each patient received periodontal prophylaxis and instructions in proper home care including rinsing with chlorhexidine. Four weeks after periodontal prophylaxis, a modified hyrax appliance was placed. The jackscrew was activated twice daily until the appropriate expansion was achieved. GCF samples were collected before and after periodontal prophylaxis and during passive wearing of the appliance, active orthodontic treatment, and retention. Fluid samples were collected with filter paper strips and analyzed by ELISA and time-dependent fluorometry for IL-1β and βG, respectively. The values recorded after periodontal prophylaxis were used as the baseline. Paired t tests were used to compare mediator levels at baseline with the levels obtained at each subsequent observation. Results: The results validate that IL-1β and βG are present in the GCF of adolescents, and, although their level decreases after a strict regimen of plaque control, it increases during orthodontic or orthopedic movement. Moreover, this study demonstrates that both heavy and light forces evoke increased levels of IL-1β and βG, stronger forces cause higher levels of inflammatory mediators, and both IL-1β and βG respond to direct and indirect application of mechanical force to teeth. Conclusions: This investigation corroborates previous findings that an inflammatory process occurs during application of mechanical force to teeth. Although this inflammation is considered relatively aseptic, additional inflammation, such as that induced by plaque accumulation, must be avoided during orthodontic or orthopedic treatment.
Alterations in L fibroblast lipid metabolism and morphology during choline deprivation

Abstract The growth of L fibroblasts in suspension culture after transfer directly to choline-free medium without a rinse was reduced to zero after 72 h. Monolayer cultures similarly treated multiplied at control rates for 96 h; one rinse of the latter prior to incubation in choline-free medium reduced growth at 48 h to 75% of control cells. A decrease in the size of cells in these rinsed monolayer cultures was apparent within 12 h, and preceded any changes in cell lipid composition; further decreases in cell size were observed at 24 and 48 h. After 24 h in choline-free medium the percent phosphatidyl choline had decreased only slightly and even at 48 h remained at 72 % of the value of control cells. At this time, however, there was a 50% decrease in the total phospholipid (PL) content of the cells, and a coincident 5–10-fold increase in the amount of triglyceride. There was no adaptive increase in the other principal PL classes. Changes in the ultrastructure of mitochondria were observed as early as 24 h; after 48 h without choline there was a decrease in the relative mitochondrial volume to 50% of control values. Alterations in the adhesive properties of choline-deprived cells may be related to altered lipid content or composition of the cell surface.
Is obesity truly a risk factor for mortality after tracheotomy

Objectives:We sought to determine the short-term and long-term overall mortality rates in obese and non-obese patients after tracheotomy and to evaluate which factors, including the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), predict mortality rates among obese patients.Methods:We performed a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent open tracheotomy in the operating room at a single hospital from 2005 to 2010.Results:Of 200 patients reviewed, 146 were non-obese and 54 were obese. The rate of mortality was higher at 30 days (p = 0.02) and at 1 year (p = 0.04) in obese patients (35.1% and 59.2%, respectively) than in non-obese patients (19.2% and 42.5%, respectively). The need for tracheotomy due to ventilator-dependent respiratory failure (VDRF) was much higher (p < 0.001) in obese patients (83.3%) than in non-obese patients (56.8%), and the rate of mortality was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in those who required tracheotomy for VDRF (32.8% at 30 days and 57% at 1 year) than in those who required tra...
Observation of internal interfaces in Pt x Co 1 − x ( x ≈ 0.7 ) alloy films: A likely cause of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy

X-ray-absorption measurements of the local structure about Pt and Co in thin polycrystalline ${\mathrm{Pt}}_{0.72}$${\mathrm{Co}}_{0.28}$ alloy films, which exhibit perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, indicate that the gross structure is fcc. However, the data reveal a directional anisotropy in the number of Co-Co bonds with an excess of Co-Co bonds in the film plane, consistent with two-dimensional clustering of Co. The resulting internal interfaces are analogous to those in Co/Pt multilayers suggesting a similar mechanism for the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in these alloys.
GaAs field-effect transistors with ion-implanted channels

Schottky-barrier-gate n channel depletion-mode field-effect transistors have been fabricated in GaAs by the use of sulphurion implantation directly into semi-insulating Cr-doped substrates to produce the channel. This technique eliminates the need for the growth of a thin epitaxial layer, as is usually done, and results in better uniformity of device characteristics over the wafer area. Performance of these devices at 1 to 12 GHz is described, and low-frequency characteristics are given.
A novel Wavelet-Based Clustering Algorithm for Analysis of Gene Expression Patterns

Most computer clustering programs available today use global de-noising algorithms to filter raw gene expression pattern data. However, many gene expression time series data contain interval-dependent noise where the second moment statistics of the noise are non-stationary. To address this issue we developed a new wavelet-based algorithm (Wave-SOM) that uses a localized filtering method (wavelets) to remove noise from the data while preserving local time events in the gene expression patterns. We employed a discrete Hilbert transform thresholding technique to compare the size of the signal component relative to the noise level at each wavelet transform level by creating a complex-valued analytic vector from which an amplitude vector was defined. Using various wavelet transformations, raw data are first de-noised by decomposing the time-series into low and high frequency wavelet coefficients. Following thresholding, the coefficients are fed as an input vector into a two-dimensional Self-Organizing-Map clustering algorithm. Transformed data are then clustered by minimizing the Euclidean (L2) distance between their corresponding fluctuation patterns. A multi-resolution analysis by Wave-SOM of expression data from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, exposed to oxidative stress and glucose-limited growth identified 29 genes with correlated expression patterns that were mapped into 5 different nodes. This ordered clustering of yeast genes by Wave-SOM illustrates the fact that the same set of genes (encoding ribosomal proteins) can be regulated by two different environmental stresses, oxidative stress and starvation. Using an adjusted Rand index measure to cluster expression patterns of yeast’ cell-cycle genes as test data sets, our algorithm outperformed the Cluster 3.0, MCLUST, CurveSOM , SSClust and GENECLUSTER clustering algorithms.
Multigap RPCs in the STAR experiment at RHIC

Abstract A large-area (50 m 2 ) Time-of-Flight system has recently been installed in the STAR experiment at RHIC. The detectors are Multigap Resistive Plate Chambers (MRPCs) and are digitized using custom electronics based on the CERN “NINO” and “HPTDC” chips. Several different prototype systems were built and operated in STAR from 2002 to 2006. The design and performance of the prototypes and the ∼ 70 % installed final system during the 2009 RHIC Run will be presented. A possible future upgrade to the STAR experiment is the Muon Telescope Detector (MTD). This system will use very large MRPCs with double-ended read-out to identify via time of flight the muons that pass through steel back-legs of the STAR magnet. The design of this system and the performance of MTD prototype systems will also be presented.
Design and analysis of a robust genetic Muller C-element

This paper presents results on the design and analysis of a robust genetic Muller C-element. The Muller C-element is a standard logic gate commonly used to synchronize independent processes in most asynchronous electronic circuits. Synthetic biological logic gates have been previously demonstrated, but there remain many open issues in the design of sequential (state-holding) logic operations. Three designs are considered for the genetic Muller C-element: a majority gate, a toggle switch, and a speed-independent implementation. While the three designs are logically equivalent, each design requires different assumptions to operate correctly. The majority gate design requires the most timing assumptions, the speed-independent design requires the least, and the toggle switch design is a compromise between the two. This paper examines the robustness of these designs as well as the effects of parameter variation using stochastic simulation. The results show that robustness to timing assumptions does not necessarily increase reliability, suggesting that modifications to existing logic design tools are going to be necessary for synthetic biology. Parameter variation simulations yield further insights into the design principles necessary for building robust genetic gates. The results suggest that high gene count, cooperativity of at least two, tight repression, and balanced decay rates are necessary for robust gates. Finally, this paper presents a potential application of the genetic Muller C-element as a quorum-mediated trigger.
Quantitative Modeling of Membrane Deformations by Multihelical Membrane Proteins: Application to G-Protein Coupled Receptors

The interpretation of experimental observations of the dependence of membrane protein function on the properties of the lipid membrane environment calls for a consideration of the energy cost of protein-bilayer interactions, including the protein-bilayer hydrophobic mismatch. We present a novel (to our knowledge) multiscale computational approach for quantifying the hydrophobic mismatch-driven remodeling of membrane bilayers by multihelical membrane proteins. The method accounts for both the membrane remodeling energy and the energy contribution from any partial (incomplete) alleviation of the hydrophobic mismatch by membrane remodeling. Overcoming previous limitations, it allows for radially asymmetric bilayer deformations produced by multihelical proteins, and takes into account the irregular membrane-protein boundaries. The approach is illustrated by application to two G-protein coupled receptors: rhodopsin in bilayers of different thickness, and the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor bound to pharmacologically different ligands. Analysis of the results identifies the residual exposure that is not alleviated by bilayer adaptation, and its quantification at specific transmembrane segments is shown to predict favorable contact interfaces in oligomeric arrays. In addition, our results suggest how distinct ligand-induced conformations of G-protein coupled receptors may elicit different functional responses through differential effects on the membrane environment.
Kinetics of Testosterone Action, in Vivo, on Liver N1-methylnicotinamide Oxidase Activity in Mice

Changes in liver N1-methylnicotinamide oxidase activity during normal maturation have been measured in DBA/2, C57BL/6, C3HeB/Fe, and (DBA/2 X C57BL/6) F1 mice. Males show a 3-fold increase in oxidase activity between 15 days post partum and adulthood. Pattern of change, as well as basic oxidase activity, is different in DBA/2 mice compared to mice from the other strains. Experimental manipulation of testosterone supply in C57BL/6 mice shows that androgens are necessary for both initiation and maintenance of the increase in liver oxidase activity. N1-methylnicotinamide oxidation in lung tissue is not similarly influenced by sex. Partial purification of 1-methylnicotinamide oxidase from liver diminished the difference in activity between sexes. Testosterone had no effect on oxidase activity when added to cell-free preparations from liver. Testosterone appears to act by means of enzyme induction, and the time required for expression of the maximum effect can be explained in terms of half-life of the oxidase ...
Quality Improvement in Nursing Care Facilities: Extent, Impetus, and Impact

This study examines the extent, motivation, and per formance implications of formal quality improvement (QI) programs in Pennsylvania nursing care facilities. Responses to a 20-item survey sent to ...
Movement and mirror neurons: a challenging and choice conversation

This paper raises fundamental questions about the claims of art historian David Freedberg and neuroscientist Vittorio Gallese in their article "Motion, Emotion and Empathy in Esthetic Experience." It does so from several perspectives, all of them rooted in the dynamic realities of movement. It shows on the basis of neuroscientific research how connectivity and pruning are of unmistakable import in the interneuronal dynamic patternings in the human brain from birth onward. In effect, it shows that mirror neurons are contingent on morphology and corporeal-kinetic tactile-kinesthetic experience. Accordingly, it poses and answers the overlooked but seminally important question of how mirror neurons come to be. The original neuromuscular research of Parma neuroscientists and the findings of Marc Jeannerod concerning kinesthesia support the answer that the "underpinnings" of visual art appreciation are themselves underpinned. An abbreviated phenomenological analysis of movement and its implications regarding the fact that the making of all art is quintessentially contingent on movement, hence a dynamic enterprise, further bolster the given answer as does a brief review of an empirical phenomenological analysis of the natural dynamic congruency of emotions and movement. In the end, the paper shows that movement and life are of a piece in the creation and appreciation of art as in everyday life.
Collective Defense: Applying the Public-Health Model to the Internet

Governments, enterprises, and consumers face myriad technically advanced and persistent computer threats. Commonly available cyberdefenses such as firewalls, antivirus software, and automatic updates for security patches help reduce the risk from threats. However, they're inadequate because many consumers sometimes ignore the guidance provided or engage in other unsafe actions (such as downloading executable programs from unknown sources). Those with infected computers aren't simply risking their own valuable information and data; they're putting others at risk. One way to address these issues is to use a model similar to the one society uses to address human illness.
A minimization problem related to the estimation of a lower bound for the temperature in a free boundary value problem related to the combustion of a solid

This paper investigates the least time τ* of the first zero of the bounded solution to an initial boundary value problem for the heat equation. The heat equation is considered in the domain $$\left\{ {(x,t)| - \infty< x< s(t),0< t \leqslant T} \right\}$$ . The initial conditionu(x, 0)=φ(x) and the boundary conditionu x (s(t),t)=−R are specified. Let τ=τ(φ,R, s) denote the first zero ofu onx=s(t), that is,u(s(τ), τ)=0. Let τ*=min τ, where the minimum is taken over a class of functionss=s(t). The existence of τ* is demonstrated, and a generalization of the problem is discussed.
Gender and the ritual of the door

A field experiment was conducted on a large university campus to determine whether the gender roles traditionally associated with door-opening are still in force, despite students' consciousness of their patriarchal implications. A total of 396 observations, made by 22 student—observers, indicated that the traditional roles are still viable. Men were twice as likely as women to hold the door open for a stranger, but both male and female subjects were more likely to ignore than to hold the door open for a man. Women were four times as likely as men to have the door held open for them, and six times as likely if they were wearing “feminine” clothing. Men and women handicapped by a load of books or papers were about twice as likely as others to have the door held open, provided the subject was of the opposite sex, but subjects' behavior was affected much more by the gender of both parties than by whatever humanitarian values may have been evoked in an encounter with someone too encumbered to open the door for herself or himself.
Measurement of Evaporation Rates from Oil Slicks on the Open Sea

A gas chromatographic method of analysis, applicable for all types of petroleum products, has been developed to measure the time dependent extent of evaporation from an oil slick on the open sea. Laboratory calibration tests show the method to have an uncertainty in evaporative weight loss of less than 1 percent. The method has been tested in the Santa Barbara Channel using oil from natural seeps at Coal Oil Point. Under sea state four conditions, this oil lost most of its volatile components in one to two hours. The resulting oil slick residue became sufficiently dense that it could easily enter the water column where it would be subjected to subsurface transport mechanisms. Sea surface roughness was observed to have a significant effect on the rate of evaporation. (Author)
Interplexiform cells in macaque monkey retina

The presence of interplexiform cells in primate retina has been disputed, with the dopaminergic interplexiform cell in the New World monkey being the most fully understood. We have examined interplexiform cells in the Old World monkey using immunocytochemistry with the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method of visualization. In several species of macaque retina, two types of interplexiform cells are found. One stains with antisera to tyrosine hydroxylase, a biosynthetic enzyme for dopamine, and the other stains with antisera to gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). The cell bodies of these two populations of interplexiform cells are located among the amacrine cells in the inner nuclear layer, and they send processes into both the inner and outer plexiform layers. GABA-positive interplexiform processes to the outer plexiform layer arise from the cell body while tyrosine hydroxylase-positive interplexiform processes most often originate from the heavily tyrosine hydroxylase-stained sublamina one of the inner plexiform layer. Cell-body diameter measurements and morphology suggest that these are different neuronal populations.
The limits of theistic experience: an epistemic basis of theistic pluralism

L'A. met ici l'accent sur le pluralisme des religions theistes. Un des criteres de differenciation entre les religions theistes et les autres, est la conception de la realite ultime. Si cette realite existe, on peut se demander quelle description du dieu est correcte parmi les religions theistes
Recent Advances in Multibeam Antennas

An overall survey of the multibeam spacecraft antenna technology is given on the basis of recent theoretical and experimental work at GE's Space Systems Division. Results are included for a 3.53 m diameter, offset fed paraboloid illuminated by a 16 reconfigurable feed in the 5.925-6.725 GHz frequency band. The paper is based in part on work under the sponsorship and technical direction of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization. Any views expressed are not necessarily those of Intelsat.
Using futures studies to design tomorrow’s products: a case study

The challenge companies face in developing innovative and profitable products and services that will be in demand in the future can be facilitated by futures studies techniques. This article presents a case study where an organization in the general insurance industry used a combination of futures studies techniques (including scenario development, causal layered analysis and backcasting) to develop over 40 new product concepts for evaluation by their strategic product development team. Some of the product concepts were considered by the client organization to be potentially revolutionary in nature.
Vcsa1 Acts as a Marker of Erectile Function Recovery After Gene Therapeutic and Pharmacological Interventions

Purpose: We identified molecular markers of erectile function, particularly those responding to erectile dysfunction treatment.Materials and Methods: Sprague-Dawley retired breeder rats were intracorporeally injected with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or the control plasmid pVAX. One week later the intracorporeal pressure-to-blood pressure ratio and gene expression were determined by microarray analysis and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Rat corporeal cells were transfected in vitro with pVAX-hSlo, pSMAA-hSlo or pVAX and the change in gene expression was determined. We also determined whether Vcsa1 expression was changed after pharmacotherapy using tadalafil.Results: Animals treated with vectors expressing hSlo had significantly improved erectile function compared to that in controls, accompanied by changed expression of a subset of genes. Vcsa1 was one of the genes that was most changed in expression (the third of approximately 31,000 with greater than 10-fold up-regulation). Chang...
A questionnaire technique for measurement of episodic long-term memory.

This paper presents a questionnaire for use in the study of episodic long-term memory. Reliability and validity information are presented. Considerations regarding the appropriate use of this measu...
A family of 45nm IA processors

Nehalem is a family of next-generation IA processors for mobile, desktop and server segments implemented in 45nm high-κ metal-gate CMOS [1]. The family features a new system architecture, significantly enhanced Core architecture [2], innovations in power management and modular design. The 4-core 8MB-L3-cache die has 731M transistors. We introduce a coherent point-to-point link called QuickPath Interconnect that is the foundation for coherent communication between IA processors, chipsets, I/O hubs and coprocessors/ accelerators for multiple generations. It features advanced power management, RAS capabilities and reduced hops/latency. At the physical level, it uses unidirectional variable-width differential signaling. The 45nm implementation features current-mode signaling with cascode driver, clock forwarding, source and sink termination, per-bit skew compensation and 2-tap driver equalization, as showin in Fig. 3.2.1. Signaling speed is up to 6.4GT/s in 45nm but the basic approach scales to 20GT/s using conventional copper interconnect [3].
Observation of Population Inversion by Optical Adiabatic Rapid Passage

I report the observation of population inversion by optical adiabatic rapid passage. These observations, on an ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$ infrared transition with all the relevant parameters known, agree with theoretical expectations. The pressure dependence of ${T}_{1}$, obtained by this technique, makes possible the first estimate of the collision-induced rotational lifetime of ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$ in an excited band, which is significantly longer than the rotational lifetime in the ground vibrational band.
A group therapy format for the simultaneous treatment of marital and sexual dysfunctions: a case illustration.

Abstract This report describes a brief, 15-session couples group therapy format developed by a university-affiliated human sexuality clinic for the simultaneous treatment of marital and sexual dysfunctions. The major marital and sexual themes addressed in this group treatment design, an overview and description of the structure of the cognitive-behavioral approach, and a case illustration are presented.d
ANODIC FENTON TREATMENT OF TREFLAN MTF

Anodic Fenton Treatment (AFT) is a radical oxidation treatment process which generates highly reactive hydroxyl radicals via the Fenton reaction. The degradation of trifluralin, a widely used hydrophobic yet volatile dinitroaniline herbicide, was studied during AFT. Three different concentrations of trifluralin, as the emulsifiable concentrate Treflan MTF®, were treated at three different concentrations and Fe2+:H2O2 delivery ratios. Each treatment, done in triplicate, involved electrochemical Fe2+ delivery from a sacrificial anode and H2O2 delivery via a peristaltic pump. Optimal treatment conditions of Fe2+:H2O2 delivery for the AFT of Treflan MTF® were determined. Data were pooled for multiple regression analyses to determine whether first, second or third order models for degradation of trifluralin and formulation ingredients were appropriate. Trifluralin degraded partially and slowly with an optimal Fe2+:H2O2 delivery of 1:1 for 100 μM and 40 μM trifluralin solutions and 1:10 for 15 μM solutions. The...
The effect of hair bundle shape on hair bundle hydrodynamics of non-mammalian inner ear hair cells for the full frequency range

The effect of the size and the shape of the hair bundle of a hair cell in the inner ear of non-mammals on its motion for the full range of frequencies is determined thereby extending the results of a previous analysis of hair bundle motion for high and low frequencies [Hear Res. 141 (2000) 39-50]. A hemispheroid is used to represent the hair bundle because it can represent a full range of shapes, from thin, pencil-like shapes to wide, flat, disk-like shapes. Boundary element methods are used to approximate the solution for the hydrodynamics. For physiologically relevant parameters, an excellent match is obtained between the model's predictions and measurements of hair bundle motion in the free-standing region of the basilar papilla of the alligator lizard [Aranyosi, Measuring sound-induced motions of the alligator lizard cochlea. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, PhD Thesis, 2002]. Neither in the model's predictions nor in experimental measurements is sharp tuning observed. The model predicted the low frequency region of neural tuning curves for the alligator lizard and bobtail lizard, but could not predict the sharp tuning or the high frequency region. An element that represents an active mechanism is added to the hair bundle model to predict neural tuning curves, which are sharply tuned, and an excellent match is obtained for all the characteristics of neural tuning curves for the alligator lizard, and for the low and high frequency regions for the bobtail lizard. The model does not predict well the sharp tuning of the shorter hair bundles of the bobtail lizard, possibly because it does not represent tectorial sallets.
The effects of simulated acid rain with and without ambient rain on the growth and yield of field-grown soybeans

Abstract Soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr, ‘Forrest’] was grown in the field to determine (1) whether sulfate (SO 4 2− ), nitrate (NO 3 − ), and hydrogen ion (H + ) concentrations in simulated rainfall cause foliar injury, affect growth and yield, influence foliar elemental content or modify soil chemistry, and (2) whether exclusion of ambient rainfall affects these responses. Plants were exposed twice weekly from 14 June to 8 October 1983 to 1 cm of simulated rain at pH levels of 5.2, 4.2, 3.7, 3.2 and 2.7. One-half of the plots was shielded from ambient rain (covered) but received additional simulated acidic rain to match the amounts of ambient rainfall on plots not shielded from ambient rain (uncovered). There were four 2.5 m 2 plots randomly assigned to each pH level in both the covered and uncovered conditions. Simulated rain treatments at pH 2.7 significantly increased foliar S concentrations and caused slight ( + and soil SO 4 S concentrations by the end of the treatment period; these changes were similar in the covered and uncovered plots. A conclusive test of the influence of ambient rain on plant response to simulated rain chemistry will require the use of species or cultivars that exhibit significant growth or yield responses to changes in H + , SO 4 2− or NO 3 − levels.
Phenomenological constraints on broken supersymmetry

Abstract We show that the existence of massless color octet quarks, which appear in a class of broken supersymmetric field theories, implies the existence of additional light (⪅ 1 GeV) unstable hadrons with large (⪆ 10 μb) production cross sections. We estimate the half-life for these states to be less than 10−8 s. If it is greater than 10°10 s, these states are already ruled out experimentally.
Optimization of binder removal for ceramic microfabrication via polymer co-extrusion

Abstract The objective of this study is to assess the feasibility of solvent extraction (SE) for partial binder removal in the context of polymer co-extrusion with a thermoplastic binder component. Polymer co-extrusion is able to produce multilayered, functionally graded and/or textured structures in an efficient manufacturing process, but requires a polymer binder system with suitable flow characteristics. Traditionally, the binder is removed by thermal debinding (TD), which, however, is prone to form cracks or blisters, both of which are attributed to a lack of initial pore space that allows pyrolysis products to escape. The primary focus of this work is to demonstrate that a binder system with a high soluble binder content is suitable for conventional polymer co-extrusion and to document that a two-step binder removal process involving both SE and TD eliminates debinding defects. The overall fabrication process is documented for the extrusion of solid ceramic rods and co-extrusion of tubes, where alumina powder was batched with polyethylene butyl acrylate (PEBA) as backbone polymer and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as water soluble binder. SE for specimen with varying PEBA:PEG ratios was tested in water at three different temperatures for various times. The 1:1 mixture showed a PEG removal up to 80 wt.% of the original PEG content after 6 h extraction; after subsequent thermal debinding, rods and tubes sintered successfully without defects, demonstrating the viability of the process.
The effects of changes in thyroid function on testis 32P uptake and the response to gonadotropin in the chick

Abstract Propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothroidism has been shown to produce a significant increase in the uptake of radiophosphorus ( 32 P) by the testes of young chicks. Continued investigation of this effect demonstrated that thyroidectomy of young birds resulted in elevations in testis 32 P uptake comparable to those observed following the administration of PTU. It would thus appear that the increased levels of 32 P in the testes of PTU-treated chicks resulted from the hypothyroid condition itself rather than from some other pharmacological action of PTU. A time course study indicated that there were no differences in the turnover rates of labeled testicular phosphorus in hypo-, hyper-, and euthyroid birds which might account for the above observations. Sensitivity of the chick testis to pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) was unaffected by changes in thyroid activity, and the combined effects of PMSG and hypothyroidism on the testis were seemingly additive. Alternative possibilities to explain the apparent indirect effect of subnormal thyroid activity on the testis were therefore discussed.
Exclusive QCD predictions for proton-antiproton decay rates of 3D1-states charmonium states

Abstract Using familiar methods of exclusive QCD, we derive the amplitude for the coupling of J=1 quarkonium D-states to proton-antiproton pairs. Including the 3D1 contribution, we then evaluate the Ψ′ → p p decay width and find that the |2 3 S 1 〉−|1 3 D 1 〉 mixing angle solution φ=−(28±2)° is favored by the observed Ψ′ decay rate. Using this solution, we then find that Γ(Ψ″→ p p ) /Γ(Ψ→ p p ) is in the range 0.07−0.31 depending on the assumed nucleon wavefunction.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction Is a Direct Consequence of Localized Maternal Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Cystitis

Despite the continually increasing rates of adverse perinatal outcomes across the globe, the molecular mechanisms that underlie adverse perinatal outcomes are not completely understood. Clinical studies report that 10% of pregnant women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) and there is an association of UTIs with adverse perinatal outcomes. We introduced bacterial cystitis into successfully outbred female mice at gestational day 14 to follow pregnancy outcomes and immunological responses to determine the mechanisms that underlie UTI-mediated adverse outcomes. Outbred fetuses from mothers experiencing localized cystitis displayed intrauterine growth restriction (20–80%) as early as 48 hours post-infection and throughout the remainder of normal gestation. Robust infiltration of cellular innate immune effectors was observed in the uteroplacental tissue following introduction of UTI despite absence of viable bacteria. The magnitude of serum proinflammatory cytokines is elevated in the maternal serum during UTI. This study demonstrates that a localized infection can dramatically impact the immunological status as well as the function of non-infected distal organs and tissues. This model can be used as a platform to determine the mechanism(s) by which proinflammatory changes occur between non-contiguous genitourinary organs
Thoracodorsal artery perforator flap and Latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap--anatomical study of the constant skin paddle perforator locations.

Summary Background Ischaemic flap complications can be a problem following harvest of the latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap or thoracodorsal artery perforator (TAP) flap. We investigate the reliable locations of the perforators of the thoracodorsal artery. Methods Twenty latissimus dorsi flaps harvested from cadavers were used in the study. In fifteen flaps the thoracodorsal artery was injected with coloured latex, and the locations of perforators were recorded. In five flaps perfusion of the skin paddle was evaluated using 3D CT angiography following injection of the thoracodorsal artery with a barium sulphate/gelatin mixture. Results At least one perforator originating from the descending branch of the thoracodorsal artery was found in all specimens, whereas no perforators from the transverse branch were found in 33% of flaps. At least one perforator originating from the descending branch in all flaps was found between 9.5 and 15.4cm from the posterior axillary fold, within 4.3cm of the lateral border of the latissimus muscle. 58% of all perforators from the descending branch, and 39% of all perforators from the thoracodorsal artery were found in this region. CT scanning of the hemiback flaps demonstrated contrast in the superior two-thirds. Perfusion of the skin paddles in three locations was demonstrated- superior transverse (bra strap), vertical and lower transverse. Conclusions Thoracodorsal artery perforators could be found within a reliable region. Positioning of the TAP flap skin paddle over this region will maximise the chances of including a perforator and may reduce the risk of ischaemia. For a musculocutaneous LD flap, the skin paddle can be in any of the 3 popular locations, i.e. upper transverse, vertical and lower transverse, as they were shown to be well vascularised.
A Baseline Perspective on Disability Subgroup Reporting

Federal legislation requires states to publicly report on the participation and performance of students with disabilities on statewide assessments. Publicly reporting this information means that it will be more accessible to educators and laypeople, and it can be used in evaluating educational programs for and assessing the progress of this subgroup. In this study, the authors collected disability subgroup assessment information reported by the 50 states for both the 2000—2001 and 2001—2002 school years, essentially establishing a baseline for No Child Left Behind disability subgroup reporting. They examined the information that was publicly reported for general and alternate assessments. In 2001— 2002, 48 states reported either participation or performance information for students with disabilities on at least one state assessment. However, only 35 states reported both participation and performance for all of their assessments, as required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
RNA Protein Interaction in Neurons

Neurons have their own systems for regulating RNA. Several multigene families encode RNA binding proteins (RNABPs) that are uniquely expressed in neurons, including the well-known neuron-specific markers ELAV and NeuN and the disease antigen NOVA. New technologies have emerged in recent years to assess the function of these proteins in vivo, and the answers are yielding insights into how and why neurons may regulate RNA in special ways—to increase cellular complexity, to localize messenger RNA (mRNA) spatially, and to regulate their expression in response to synaptic stimuli. The functions of such restricted neuronal proteins are likely to be complemented by more widely expressed RNABPs that may themselves have developed specialized functions in neurons, including Argonaute/microRNAs (miRNAs). Here we review what is known about such RNABPs and explore the potential biologic and neurologic significance of neuronal RNA regulatory systems.
Implanting a clear intraocular lens in one eye and a yellow lens in the other eye: a case series.

Purpose To describe the color vision disturbance reported by patients in whom a clear intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted in one eye and a yellow-tinted (blue-light-absorbing) IOL in the other eye. Design Retrospective interventional case series. Methods Data recorded included demographic information, dates of surgery, IOL model and power (manufacturer is the same for all lenses), best-corrected visual acuity, and subjective visual complaints. Results Four of five patients had no spontaneous color vision complaints. When these patients were informed of the unintended mismatch, all remarked that they could perceive a color vision difference, but that it was not bothersome. One of the five patients reported “beige” vision. None of the patients wanted an IOL exchange. Conclusion Many patients can tolerate the color vision imbalance that results when a clear IOL is implanted in one eye and a yellow-tinted IOL is implanted in the other eye.
REVIEW ARTICLE: THE ROLE OF TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR IN RENAL ISCHEMIA-REPERFUSION INJURY

AbstractRenal ischemia-reperfusion injury induces a cascade of events leading to cellular damage and organ dysfunction. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), a potent proinflammatory cytokine, is released from the kidney in response to, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of, renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. TNF induces glomerular fibrin deposition, cellular infiltration and vasoconstriction, leading to a reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The signaling cascade through which renal ischemia-reperfusion induces TNF production is beginning to be elucidated. Oxidants released following reperfusion activate p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38 MAP kinase) and the TNF transcription factor, NF kappa B, leading to subsequent TNF synthesis. In a positive feedback, proinflammatory fashion, binding of TNF to specific TNF membrane receptors can reactivate NF kappa B. This provides a mechanism by which TNF can upregulate its own expression as well as facilitate the expression of other genes piv...
On the relaxation of magnetospheric convection when B z turns northward

Abstract. The solar wind inputs considerable energy into the upper atmosphere, particularly when the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) is southward. According to Poynting's theorem (Kelley, 2009), this energy becomes stored as magnetic fields and then is dissipated by Joule heat and by energizing the plasmasheet plasma. If the IMF turns suddenly northward, very little energy is transferred into the system while Joule dissipation continues. In this process, the polar cap potential (PCP) decreases. Experimentally, it was shown many years ago that the energy stored in the magnetosphere begins to decay with a time constant of two hours. Here we use Poynting's theorem to calculate this time constant and find a result that is consistent with the data.