cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transferred-substrate HBT integrated circuits

Abstract Using substrate transfer processes, we have fabricated heterojunction bipolar transistors with submicron emitter-base and collector-base junctions, minimizing RC parasitics and increasing f max to 500 GHz. The process also provides a microstrip wiring environment on a low- ϵ r dielectric substrate. Demonstrated small-scale ICs in the process include lumped and distribute amplifiers with bandwidths to 85 Hz, 48 GHz static frequency dividers, and 50GHz AGC/limiting amplifiers.
SPECT system optimization against a discrete parameter space

In this paper, we present an analytical approach for optimizing the design of a static SPECT system or optimizing the sampling strategy with a variable/adaptive SPECT imaging hardware against an arbitrarily given set of system parameters. This approach has three key aspects. First, it is designed to operate over a discretized system parameter space. Second, we have introduced an artificial concept of virtual detector as the basic building block of an imaging system. With a SPECT system described as a collection of the virtual detectors, one can convert the task of system optimization into a process of finding the optimum imaging time distribution (ITD) across all virtual detectors. Thirdly, the optimization problem (finding the optimum ITD) could be solved with a block-iterative approach or other nonlinear optimization algorithms. In essence, the resultant optimum ITD could provide a quantitative measure of the relative importance (or effectiveness) of the virtual detectors and help to identify the system configuration or sampling strategy that leads to an optimum imaging performance. Although we are using SPECT imaging as a platform to demonstrate the system optimization strategy, this development also provides a useful framework for system optimization problems in other modalities, such as positron emission tomography and x-ray computed tomography (Moore et al (2009 IEEE Nucl. Sci. Symp. Conf. Rec. pp 4154–7), Freed et al (2008 Med. Phys. 35 1912–25)).
An Evaluation of Buccal Shield Treatment

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the short-term effects of the buccal shield modification of the lip-bumper design and on various mandibular dental arch parameters and to determine whether the changes in arch widths are due to the tipping or bodily movements of the teeth involved. Materials and Methods: This study included 45 consecutively treated patients (29 girls and 16 boys) from a private orthodontic practice. Student's and paired t-tests were used to test the null hypothesis of no change over time for the various measurements. Linear regression analyses were used to determine whether treatment time was a significant predictor of arch width expansion. Significance for all statistical tests was predetermined at P ≤ .05. Results: Student's t-test results indicated the presence of a significant (P < .0001) increase in all the arch parameters measured. The greatest mean expansion was observed at the first (5.0 ± 2.2 mm) and second (3.4 ± 2.2 mm) premolar width measurements. The changes in arch width param...
The inhibition of LPS-induced splenocyte proliferation by ortho-substituted and microbially dechlorinated polychlorinated biphenyls is associated with a decreased expression of cyclin D2.

Abstract Immunological effects of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been demonstrated in our laboratories with the peferential inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced splenocyte proliferation by ortho -substituted PCB congeners. An investigation of the mechanism behind this immunotoxicity revealed an interruption in the progression of murine lymphocytes from G 0 /G 1 into S phase by Aroclor 1242 and the di- ortho -substituted congener, 2,2′-chlorobiphenyl (CB), whereas, a non- ortho -substituted congener, 4,4′-CB, did not affect cell cycle progression. This interruption of cell cycle progression by 2,2′-CB and Aroclor 1242 was associated with a decreased expression of the cell cycle regulatory protein, cyclin D2, while expression was not affected by exposure to the non- ortho -substituted 4,4′-CB. These results suggest the preferential inhibition of LPS-induced splenocyte proliferation by ortho -substituted congeners is a result of a decreased expression of cyclin D2, which leads to an interruption in cell cycle progression. In addition, PCB mixtures with an increased percentage of chlorines in the ortho position following an environmentally occurring degradation process inhibited LPS-induced proliferation, interrupted cell cycle progression, and decreased cyclin D2 expression. This study provides evidence for a mechanism of action of the immunological effects of ortho -substituted individual congeners as well as environmentally relevant mixtures enriched in congeners with this substitution pattern.
The Anopheles gambiae genome

Recibido: 09/12/02; aceptado: 30/10/02 Recently an entire issue of Science (Vol. 298, No. 5591, 4 October 2002) was dedicated to the genomic description of the world’s foremost malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae. This was a momentous and pivotal event in medical entomology, both for the feat itself of delineating and annotating the genomic sequences of a deadly mosquito menace, but also for its implications for the field of medical entomology-ranging from insights into evolutionary relationships among diverse taxa to a better understanding of more pragmatic considerations of insecticide resistance and perhaps genetic engineering. The mass of accumulated information was staggering. The central article was accompanied by a foldout illustrating sequences, genes and genomic themes down to a 10 kb resolution, as well as an itemization of the accomplishments and limitations of the current presentation of the genomic organization. Six related research articles and reports described: 1) homology with the more distantly related Drosophila melanogaster, already fully sequenced; 2) homologies with closely related anopheline, Anopheles funestus; 3) immunity-related gene families; 4) evolution of insecticide resistance; 5) neuropeptides of A. gambiae; and 6) comparison of sensory protein lineages in A. gambiae and D. melanogaster.
Experimental study of laminar-to-turbulent flow transition under the action of acoustic oscillations

Experimental data are given on the effects of acoustic oscillations at frequencies up to 100 kHz on free laminar flow.
Symmetrical gaits of dogs in relation to body build

Symmetrical gaits of 37 breeds of dogs were analyzed. Usual walking and trotting gaits resemble those of other carnivores of similar size and conformation. Only certain long-legged dogs pace – usually at the fast walk or slow run. At the moderate walk, long-legged dogs tend to use lateral-couplets gaits, whereas short-legged breeds tend to use single-foot gaits. Many dogs must turn the axis of the body slightly from the line of travel at the trot to prevent interference between fore and hind feet. The relative duration with the ground made by fore and hind feet is discussed, usual support-sequences of the varicus gaits are presented, and the amount of variation is shown.
Growth inhibition of pathogenic yeast isolates by α-difluoromethylornithine: An inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase

A large body of evidence exists suggesting that polyamines can play essential roles in cellular growth and differentiation. We examined the ability of α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, the major rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis, to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. Substantial growth-inhibition was observed for all three species at DFMO concentrations ranging from 1 to 100 mM. C. tropicalis was significantly more susceptible to DFMO than C. albicans or C. parapsilosis. Depletion of cellular polyamine pools was seen in all 3 species following exposure to DFMO and polyamine depletion enhanced the susceptibility of the organisms to DFMO. The action of DFMO was specifically antagonized by exogenous polyamines. These data suggest that polyamines are important in the growth of Candida spp. and that inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis may be useful as antifungal agents.
Mechanism of inhibition of rat brain (Na + K)-adenosine triphosphatase by 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1,-trichloroethane (DDT)

Abstract Inhibition of an (Na + K)-ATPase preparation from rat brain by DDT was five times as effective when the insecticide was particulate than when solubilized by the surfactant, Corexit 7664. The surfactant reduced binding of DDT to the membranes by about 5 fold. Inhibition correlated with the amount of DDT bound rather than with its concentration or physical state. In the absence of the surfactant, maximal inhibition and binding occurred when the membranes contained about 350 pmoles/μg of protein, an amount equal to 12 per cent of the protein content of the membranes. At low concentrations most of the DDT present is bound by the membranes, hence its effect decreases as membrane concentration increases. The kinetics of inhibition of the (Na + K)-ATPase by DDT, allenthrin and DDE were examined by varying the concentrations of inhibitor, Na + , or K + , while holding the concentration of the others constant. Inhibition by all of these compounds was potentiated by increased K + , and the increment in the inhibition caused by K + was reversible by increased Na + concentrations. Hence the effectiveness of DDT is dependent on the membrane concentration and the relative concentrations of Na + and K + . The concentration of DDT required for maximal inhibition suggests that the inhibition is not caused by binding to a specific site on the enzyme, but is the result of indirect alterations of the membrane which interfere with allosteric transitions of the (Na + K)-ATPase mediated by Na + and K + .
Low Effect Sizes of Evidence-Based Programs in School Settings

School practitioners working from an evidence-based practice framework are expected to implement interventions that are effective with students. In the current study, the authors explore the feasibility of that expectation in light of the availability of critical effect size information necessary for making informed intervention decisions. Effect sizes for 51 school-based programs endorsed as effective by authoritative sources were reviewed. Effect size analyses reveal that the programs were not, on average, highly effective. Difficulties finding effect size information and programs with high effect sizes are discussed. Recent advances in evidence-based programs and suggestions for increasing the feasibility of evidence-based programs in schools are offered.
Development and application of weather-normalized monthly building water use model

Abstract This study proposes a new monthly whole-building water use regression model for weather-normalized water performance evaluation: a combination three-parameter multi-variable regression (3-P MVR) cooling model using outdoor temperature in a change-point model and precipitation amount/occurrence as an additional independent variable. To select appropriate weather variables influencing a building's water use, previous studies on the water use models at the municipal level were reviewed. The selected weather variables were then tested using the multi-year monthly water use data collected from the two separate water meters (i.e., the main building meter for indoor water use; and sprinkler meter for landscape water use) of the case-study office building in central TX. The proposed water use model is based on twelve monthly, building-level water use data, which should be available for most buildings that are supplied water from a municipal provider. This model allows a year-to-year, weather-normalized comparison for self-referencing as well as savings calculations from various water conservation measures. This new method will reduce uncertainty about reported water savings from water conservation measures applied and improve the credibility of water conservation programs.
The evolution of the management of regional lymph nodes in melanoma.

The last two decades have seen sweeping changes in the surgical approach to melanoma. Traditionally, patients without evidence of nodal metastases were considered for elective lymph node dissection. This approach placed many patients at risk of morbidity while many derived no benefit. As investigators gained a deeper understanding of melanoma and lymphatic biology, newer methods of managing regional lymph nodes were sought. The advent of sentinel node biopsy has radically changed the approach to melanoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:316–321. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Transforming properties of TC-1 in human breast cancer: Interaction with FGFR2 and β-catenin signaling pathways

Breast cancer development is associated with gene amplification and over expression that is believed to have a causative role in oncogenesis. Previous studies have demonstrated that over expression of TC-1(C8orf4) mRNA occurs in ∼50% of breast cancer cell lines and primary tumor specimens. Here, we show that TC-1 has transforming properties in human mammary epithelial (HME) cells and its expression is mechanistically linked to FGFR signaling cascades. In vitro experiments demonstrate that TC-1 over expression mediates both anchorage-independent and growth factor-independent proliferation of HME cells. TC-1 was down regulated by the FGFR inhibitor PD173074 in the breast cancer cell line SUM-52 that also has an FGFR2 gene amplification and over expression. Furthermore, forced expression of FGFR2 in HME cells increased the level of expression of endogenous TC-1 mRNA. TC-1 has been implicated as a modulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in 293 cells and in gastric cancer cells. However, while we did find increased expression of a subset of β-catenin target genes in TC-1 over expressing cells, we did not find an association of TC-1 with global expression of β-catenin target genes in our cells. Taken together, our data suggest that TC-1 over expression is transforming and may link with the FGFR pathway in a subset of breast cancer. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Kinase-4 Promotes Cell Survival by Decreasing PTEN Expression through an NFκB-dependent Pathway

Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-4 (MKK4/SEK1) cooperates with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase to maintain the survival of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, but the biochemical basis of this phenomenon has not been elucidated. Here we used genetic approaches to modulate MKK4 expression in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEF cells) and NSCLC cells to identify prosurvival signals downstream of MKK4. Relative to wild-type MEF cells, MKK4-null MEF cells were highly susceptible to apoptosis by LY294002, paclitaxel, or serum starvation. MKK4 promoted the survival of MEF cells by decreasing the expression of phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN). MKK4 inhibited PTEN transcription by activating NFκB, a transcriptional suppressor of PTEN. MKK4 was required for nuclear translocation of RelA/p65 and processing of the NFκB2 precursor (p100) into the mature form (p52). Studies on a panel of NSCLC cell lines revealed a subset with high MKK4/high NFκB/low PTEN that was relatively resistant to apoptosis. Thus, MKK4 promotes cell survival by activating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase through an NFκB/PTEN-dependent pathway.
Observed and expected combined effects of clinical mastitis and low body condition on pregnancy loss in dairy cows

The objective was to compare the observed and expected combined effects of clinical mastitis before timed artificial insemination (TAI) and low body condition at 70 d postpartum (dpp) on pregnancy loss in dairy cows. Cows were examined for pregnancy by ultrasonographic examination 28-32 d after TAI; the presence of an embryo with a heartbeat was the criterion used to determine pregnancy. Cows diagnosed pregnant were re-examined by transrectal palpation of the uterus and its contents 28 d later to confirm pregnancy status and to identify pregnancy loss. Eighty-eight (17%) of 512 cows were diagnosed with pregnancy loss. Cows affected with clinical mastitis before insemination and a body condition score (BCS)≤2.75 at 70 dpp were 2.03 times more likely to experience pregnancy loss, compared to cows without clinical mastitis and with a BCS>2.75 (RR=2.03; 95% CI=1.15, 3.60; P=0.01). This observed combined effect for pregnancy loss (RR=2.03) was higher than the expected combined effect based on adding (RR=1.39) or multiplying (RR=1.42) absolute independent excesses due to clinical mastitis or low body condition.
Site-directed Mutagenesis of Residues Involved in G Strand DNA Binding by Escherichia coli DNA Topoisomerase I

Crystal structures of complexes between type IA DNA topoisomerases and single-stranded DNA suggest that the residues Ser-192, Arg-195, and Gln-197 in a conserved region of Escherichia coli topoisomerase I may be important for direct interactions with phosphates on the G strand of DNA, which is the substrate for DNA cleavage and religation (Changela A., DiGate, R. J., and Mondragon, A. (2001) Nature 411, 1077-1081; Perry, K., and Mondragon, A. (2003) Structure 11, 1349-1358). Site-directed mutagenesis experiments altering these residues to alanines and other amino acids were carried out to probe the relevance of these interactions in the catalytic activities of the enzyme. The results show that the side chains of Arg-195 and Gln-197 are required for DNA cleavage by the enzyme and are likely to be important for positioning of the G strand of DNA at the active site prior to DNA cleavage. Mutation of Ser-192 did not affect DNA binding and cleavage but nevertheless decreased the overall rate of relaxation of supercoiled DNA probably because of its participation in a later step of the reaction pathway.
Behavior and physiologic responses of mares to short-term isolation

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the behavior and physiologic responses of mares to removal from an established pasture herd and to isolation in a pasture setting for 6 h (Group I, n =5). Responses of mares in Group I were compared to mares that were transported and returned to the herd (Group T, n =5) and to mares moved to the isolation pasture with a companion (Group C, n =5). Behavior was recorded continuously for 6 h on the day before the isolation procedures (baseline, Day 0) and again on the day of the procedure (test, Day 1). Plasma cortisol, white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (N:L), and hematocrit (HCT) were measured once on Day 0 (a.m.) and twice on Day 1 (a.m. and p.m.). Heart rate (HR) was monitored continuously during Day 0 and Day 1. Intradermal response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) injection was measured 18 h following injection, which was administered at the end of Day 1. Average time spent standing alert increased ( P P χ 2 -square value) in the proportion of mares that autogroomed, defecated, urinated, rolled, and whinnied on Day 1. Activity shift rate (ASR) and temperament scores increased significantly in Groups I and C from Day 0 to Day 1 ( P P P P P P A variety of measures did indicate a response to removal from the pasture group, however, the overall, short-term response was minimal. Since the responses of Groups I and C were similar, the effects of isolation versus a novel environment or separation from the established herd could not be differentiated.
Alexithymia is not related to tolerance for cold pressor pain.

FRITCH, AND JENNIFER GUNDERSON Deparfmetzt of Psychologv U~ziuersify of Wisconsin-Superior Strmnzary.-To test the hypothesis chat higher scores on alexithyrnia are associ- ated with reduced tolerance for cold pressor pain, 116 college undergradu~res corn- pleced the Toronto Alexithyrnia Scale-20 of Bagby, Parker and Taylor and eng.lgsd in the cold pressor test. Their alexithymia scores were not associated with toler3nce for cold pressor pain, suggesting chat individuals scoring high on alexithyrnia do not show a general hypersensitivity to a cold stimulus.
The Other End of the Bargain: The Socioeconomics of Marital Dissolution in Rural Northeast Brazil

Divorce rates globally are on the rise, and in rural Northeast Brazil increasing rates of marital dissolution index transformations in gender roles, marriage and kinship structures. Socioeconomic change—specifically a transition to an economy based in ecotourism—impacts gender roles and subsequent views on marriage and marriage dissolution. In a context of extreme social inequality and structural vulnerability women's employment combined with men's unemployment decreases women's incentives to stay in an unsatisfactory marriage. However, a women and men's ability or inability to make a financial contribution to the household is not the primary impetus for marital dissolution. Among other factors, marriage dissolution represents the breakdown of an emerging bargain between women and men based in the ideal of a modern companionate marriage.
Studies of Cetylpyridinium Chloride and Cetylpyridinium Salicylate in Solution and Adsorbed on Silica Surfaces Using X- and W-Band Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin probe 4-[N,N-dimethyl-N-(n-hexadecyl)ammonium]-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperindinyl-N‘-oxyl (HTAB*) has been used to study the adsorption and aggregation of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and cetylpyridinium salicylate (CPSa) on silica particles. In CPC micelles, the local viscosity, as determined from the rotational correlation times of HTAB*, was found to be approximately constant, as was the local polarity determined from Aiso, giso, and HTAB* equilibrium constants. In CPSa micelles at concentrations above the sphere-to-rod transition, significant decreases in polarity and local viscosity were observed. The affinity of CPC for the strong binding site on the silica surface was found to be higher than the affinities of CPSa and HTAB. The polarities and local viscosities of the surfactant aggregates and the corresponding micelles were found to be similar. From analysis of the line widths of the EPR spectra, it was concluded that CPSa on silica surfaces forms two c...
A cone-beam compensated back-projection algorithm for X-ray particle tracking velocimetry

Abstract Characterizing multiphase or granular flows is difficult due to the opaque nature of the system. While invasive measurement techniques provide detailed information about a single point, assessing the entire system is a laborious task due to the large number of samples required. Therefore, significant work has gone into developing noninvasive methods of measuring these flow systems. In this study, identical pairs of X-ray source/detector systems are used to provide two simultaneous but independent X-ray radiographic projections, which are then coupled together to perform X-ray stereographic imaging of a granular flow. A cone-beam compensated back-projection algorithm is developed for X-ray particle tracking velocimetry (XPTV). This method accurately corrects for the X-ray׳s cone-beam geometry, which is ignored in parallel-beam back-projection methods. To demonstrate the need for the cone-beam compensation, a direct comparison between the cone-beam and parallel-beam back-projection algorithms is used, and significant differences are presented. These methods are then used to perform XPTV in a double screw mixer, allowing the position and velocity of individual tracer particles to be characterized.
Mechanical characteristics evaluation of biogas micro turbine power systems

As the increase of energy demand, the emission of CO2 is also likely to increase by at least the same amount because energy supply will be based on fossil fuels, which is more apparent in a number of developing countries. With the total global energy environment and rapid increase of domestic and foreign demand, renewable energy is the inevitable energy source for the future. In this context, the micro gas turbines (MGTs) by using bio-energy is being considered as a promising solution. In order to develop the real plant system of those technologies such as 60 kW-class micro gas turbine by using swine biogas, we finished the optimal design and construction for a biomass fueled MGT system. This paper consists of 1) MGT system design for swine bio gas 2) material evaluation for bio gas piping 3) computational fluid dynamics analysis for bio gas sulfur removal tower and sulfur absorption filter 4) the fundamental modeling using manufacturer's technical specifications and performance simulation by PEPSE-GT 5) field test and application of bio gas micro gas turbine. Finally, I established to set up the top-notched distributed power system design and optimal application.
Dipole nanolasers: A study of their quantum properties

In this paper we undertake a theoretical study of the quantum properties of a dipole nanolaser proposed by Protsenko et al. [Phys. Rev. A 71, 063812 (2005)]. The dynamics of the system is studied in both density-matrix and quantum Langevin formulations, with attention directed to noise sources. The result of the analysis indicates that in the most directly accessible parameter regime, photons will be emitted in a broad spectral distribution and the time delay between consecutive emissions of single photons exceeds the coherence time. Another parameter regime exists within which the emitted light more closely resembles conventional laser light.
ALARA in pediatric fluoroscopy.

hildren are not small adults. First, heir disease states are different rom adults, which may necessitate ore imaging examinations. For xample, congenital heart and vasular defects in neonates and inants can require up to 10 cardiac atheterizations, as opposed to 1 inervention required for coronary arery disease in adults [1]. Second, oung children are approximately 3 imes more sensitive to radiation xposure than adults [2]. Pediatric adiation doses associated with each maging study need to be as low as easonably achievable. Infants and children have smaller odies than adults, which necessiates a large dynamic range of raiologic technique factors. A neoate, a 5-year old, and a large adult ave posterior-anterior girths of bout 6 cm, 15 cm, and more than 0 cm [3], respectively, with all ther patients between these values. ssuming a half value layer of tissue f 3 cm, this range of patient sizes pproximates 9 half value layers; at constant kilovolt peak, this reuires a dynamic range of milliamere-seconds of 512 per pulse of raiation for either image recording r pulsed fluoroscopy!
Development and Risk Behavior Among African American, Caucasian, and Mixed-race Adolescents Living in High Poverty Inner-city Neighborhoods

Youths growing up in low-income inner-city neighborhoods are at substantial risk for initiating substance use, violent behavior, and sexual intercourse at early ages; these risk behaviors continue at comparatively high rates through adolescence. Hopelessness has been implicated as a risk factor for these behaviors. In this paper, we consider how race influences this process. African Americans form a demographic minority within the United States, but they are often the majority within inner-city neighborhoods. For Caucasians, the opposite typically holds. Mixed-race populations form a minority within both contexts. Using longitudinal data, we examine the relationship between race and risk behaviors in several impoverished inner-city neighborhoods where African Americans form the distinct majority and Caucasians and people of mixed racial heritage form a small minority. We also consider how race moderates the relationship between hopelessness and risk behavior. Our findings show that compared to Caucasian or mixed-race adolescents, African American adolescents are less likely to engage in risk behaviors, and that hopelessness has a less important impact on their behaviors.
The Distribution of Perceptual Cues in English Prevocalic Fricatives

Two experiments involving deletion of selected segments of syllables were undertaken to investigate the distribution of perceptual cues and the role of right-to-left coarticulation in fricative vow...
Cultured Alveolar Epithelial Cells From Septic Rats Mimic in Vivo Septic Lung

Sepsis results in the formation of pulmonary edema by increasing in epithelial permeability. Therefore we hypothesized that alveolar epithelial cells isolated from septic animals develop tight junctions with different protein composition and reduced barrier function relative to alveolar epithelial cells from healthy animals. Male rats (200–300g) were sacrificed 24 hours after cecal ligation and double puncture (2CLP) or sham surgery. Alveolar epithelial cells were isolated and plated on fibronectin-coated flexible membranes or permeable, non-flexible transwell substrates. After a 5 day culture period, cells were either lysed for western analysis of tight junction protein expressin (claudin 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, and 18, occludin, ZO-1, and JAM-A) and MAPk (JNK, ERK, an p38) signaling activation, or barrier function was examined by measuring transepithelial resistance (TER) or the flux of two molecular tracers (5 and 20 A). Inhibitors of JNK (SP600125, 20 µM) and ERK (U0126, 10 µM) were used to determine the role of these pathways in sepsis induced epithelial barrier dysfunction. Expression of claudin 4, claudin 18, and occludin was significantly lower, and activation of JNK and ERK signaling pathways was significantly increased in 2CLP monolayers, relative to sham monolayers. Transepithelial resistance of the 2CLP monolayers was reduced significantly compared to sham (769 and 1234 ohm-cm2, respectively), however no significant difference in the flux of either tracer was observed. Inhibition of ERK, not JNK, significantly increased TER and expression of claudin 4 in 2CLP monolayers, and prevented significant differences in claudin 18 expression between 2CLP and sham monolayers. We conclude that alveolar epithelial cells isolated from septic animals form confluent monolayers with impaired barrier function compared to healthy monolayers, and inhibition of ERK signaling partially reverses differences between these monolayers. This model provides a unique preparation for probing the mechanisms by which sepsis alters alveolar epithelium.
Expression of the dermonecrotic toxin by Bordetella bronchiseptica is not necessary for predisposing to infection with toxigenic Pasteurella multocida

This experiment was designed to determine whether a Bordetella bronchiseptica mutant that does not produce dermonecrotic toxin (DNT) is still capable of predisposing pigs to infection with toxigenic Pasteurella multocida. Three groups of pigs were initially inoculated intranasally with a wild type B. bronchiseptica that produces DNT, an isogenic mutant of B. bronchiseptica that does not produce DNT, or PBS. All pigs were then challenged intranasally with a toxigenic strain of P. multocida 4 days later. P. multocida was recovered infrequently and in low numbers from pigs initially inoculated with PBS, and no turbinate atrophy was present in these pigs. P. multocida was isolated in similar numbers from the pigs initially inoculated with either the wild type or the DNT mutant of B. bronchiseptica, and turbinate atrophy of a similar magnitude was also seen in pigs from both of these groups. Thus, although the DNT has been shown to be responsible for much of the pathology seen during infection with B. bronchiseptica by itself, infection with non-DNT-producing strains can still predispose to secondary respiratory infections with P. multocida.
POLY(2,2,2-Trifluoroethyl A-Chloroacrylate) PTFECA, A High Sensitivity Ion Resist

For masked ion beam lithography (MIBL) beam-induced mask heating can cause deformations and image distortion. This can be avoided by the use of a resist ten times more sensitive than PMMA. Poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl -chloroacrylate), PTFECA, has been shown to be about ten times more sensitive than PMMA for proton beam exposures at 100 keV, and has demonstrated sub-half-micron resolution. The etch characteristics of PTFECA, however, are not as good as PMMA.
SU‐GG‐J‐136: High Fidelity, Low Distortion Diffusion‐Weighted MRI for Head and Neck Cancer Radiotherapy Planning

Purpose: Diffusion‐weighted (DW) MRI can provide information to improve target delineation in radiation treatment planning. However, acquisition of DW images in head and neck presents several challenges, including tissues with short T2s and off‐resonance effects arising from air‐tissue/air‐bone interfaces. We implemented a multi‐shot, variable density spiral (VDS) acquisition method and demonstrate that it is capable of generating low distortion, high fidelity DW images of head and neck cancer patients suitable for radiation treatment planning. Method and Materials: A multi‐shot, VDS sequence of our own design with Stejkal and Tanner diffusionencoding gradients was implemented on a 3.0T Siemens Verio scanner. Multi‐shot, DW images were acquired on three head and neck cancer patients (FOV: 220mm2, matrix: 1282, interleaves: 16, TE: 67 msec, TR: 3500 msec, TH: 3 mm, b=0, 600 s/mm2, scan time: 3.7 minutes). Custom reconstruction software was written to exploit the self‐navigating capabilities of the VDS readout gradients, which facilitated correction of each spiral interleaf for eddy current‐ and motion‐induced phase errors encoded by the diffusion gradients. Results: In terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio, short T2s impose an upper limit on echo times and, thus, the maximum achievable degree of diffusion weighting in head and neck regions. The use of the Stejkal and Tanner diffusionencoding scheme permits a reduction in minimum echo time, relative to the widely used twice‐refocused spin‐echo, which facilitates acquisition of DW images in tissues with short T2s. In addition, the combination of VDS readout gradients and the custom reconstruction algorithm permit effective correction of both eddy current and motion‐induced phase errors, thereby facilitating acquisition of high fidelity, low distortion DW images in the head and neck. Conclusions: High‐fidelity, low distortion diffusion‐weighted MR imaging of the head and neck useful for radiation treatment planning is achievable using multi‐shot, variable‐density spiral acquisitions. Research supported by Siemens Healthcare
The Gender of Participants in Published Research Involving People with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Research articles involving participants with an autism spectrum disorder and published from 2010 through 2012 in Autism , Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders , Journal of Child Psychology and Child Psychiatry , and Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders were examined to determine the reported gender of participants. The overall male:female ratio was 4.62, which is similar to that reported in epidemiological studies, but the ratio was 6.07 in intervention studies. These findings suggesting that males were in a statistical sense over-represented in intervention studies, but not in other kinds of research. Most (82.21%) of these studies included both male and female participants, but direct comparisons of males and females with an autism spectrum disorder are scarce. Few of the articles we examined, 0.49% of the total, involved only female participants. Roughly half of the articles included comparison groups without an autism spectrum disorder. The percentage of male participants in these comparison groups was substantially and significantly lower than the percentage of males in groups with an autism spectrum disorder, which may in some cases constitute a methodological confound. We encourage researchers to carefully consider the gender of participants as both an extraneous variable and as an independent variable in future investigations.
Coarsening of non-spherical particles

Abstract In this paper we analyze the coarsening of a diffuse collection of non-spherical particles. The only restriction on the particles' shapes is that each one remains in its original “shape class”. Linearized Gibbs-Thomson boundary conditions are used, and it is assumed that the particles coarsen through a quasi-static process. We presume the particles coarsen in an adiabatic system. Then the far field value of the potential, which is determined self-consistently, is found to vary approximately like the inverse “radii” of the particles. Assuming scale factor coarsening, upper and lower bounds are determined for the value of the far field, which show that the usual t-1/3 kinetics arise. Thus, this is a generalization of the LSW analysis which treated only a collection of objects from a single shape class.
Introduction of a plasmid encoding the OHIO-1 beta-lactamase to an intermediate care ward by patient transfer.

A prospective study of 147 intermediate care ward (ICW) patients for acquisition of gentamicin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (GRE) was carried out. Fifty (34%) were colonized or infected with one or more strains of GRE. Fifteen of these patients and one nurse were colonized with 22 strains (including ten species) of GRE bearing identical 60 kb plasmids encoding a novel β-lactamase determinant, OHIO-l and ANT (2“). Analysis of the time course of colonized patients on the ICW revealed one probable episode of cross-transmission. Five colonized patients had been residing in the ICW from one to four months prior to study initiation. Eight patients were admitted to the ICW from other hospital areas already colonized and one additional patient acquired colonization on the ICW from an unknown source. Thus, eight of ten patients admitted to the ICW during the prospective study were already colonized on admission to the ICW. To control this level of colonization it would therefore be necessary to direct efforts at limiting admission of colonized patients or attempting to eliminate the strain from persistently colonized patients, rather than trying to limit transmission within the ward.
Choline acetyltransferase, glutamate decar☐ylase and tyrosine hydroxylase in the cochlea and cochlear nucleus of the guinea pig

Activities of choline acetyltransferase (ChAC), glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of acetylcholine (ACh), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and catecholamines, respectively, were measured in the cochlea and cochlear nucleus of the guinea pig. ChAc activity in the organ of Corti, third turn, was 1270 pmole ACh formed/min/mg protein (ChAc, 1270) and was higher than in turn 4 (ChAc, 543). ChAc activity was higher when the preparation included the inner hair cell region than when not. GAD activity in samples of turn 3 and 4 combined was low, 0.17 nmole GABA formed/min/mg protein (GAD, 0.17). All 3 enzymes were low in auditory nerve: ChAc, 1.7, GAD, 0.10 and TH, 1.0 pmole DOPA formed/min/mg protein. In the cochlear nucleus, the values were: ChAc, 129, GAD, 1.70 and TH, 2.7. The findings on the distribution of ChAc activity in the organ of Corti fit the hypothesis that the olivocochlear nerve fibers are cholinergic. Because of low GAD in the cochlea, GABA is unlikely to be transmitter in the organ of Corti. Similarly, it is unlikely that ACh, GABA or a catecholamine is a transmitter between the auditory nerve and the cochlear nucleus.
Specimen flatness of glucose-embedded biological materials for electron crystallography is affected significantly by the choice of carbon evaporation stock

Imperfect specimen flatness can be a significant limitation in the application of electron crystallography to high-resolution structure analysis of biological macromolecules. We now report that the choice of solid carbon stock that is used to make evaporated carbon films can have a very great effect on the preparation of flat specimens of glucose-embedded purple membrane. The degree of purity of the carbon does not seem to be the controlling factor, and other likely factors such as the type of mica used as a substrate, the evaporation apparatus used (and its limiting vacuum), and the use of a continuous versus an interrupted evaporation protocol do not have a discernible influence. The physical or chemical basis for the observed differences in specimen flatness is still unknown; however, the important conclusion that we can communicate at this point is that the choice of evaporating material does have a major effect on the flatness of purple membrane, the specimen used here. The implication is that different sources of carbon stock should be tried whenever difficulty is encountered in the preparation of suitably flat specimens of biological macromolecules.
"Boston Harbor"-Type Project Labor Agreements in Construction: Nature, Rationales, and Legal Challenges

This article examines union action to gain jobs by inducing state and municipal governmental bodies, and most recently, the federal government as well, to direct that all work on a tax-financed construction project must be performed under the terms of a pre-hire project labor agreement ("PLA"). The effect is to freeze out nonunion ("open-shop") contractors and their employees unless such contractors are willing to sign, or at least adhere to, the labor agreement, recruit employees from the union hiring halls, or have their employees join or pay fees to the union.
The relation in man between gastric acidity and height and weight

A study of 2,185 normal persons showed that, with age and height constant, free gastric acidity increased in women 0.06 units for each added pound of weight. There was no such relation in the case of men. With age and weight constant, free gastric acidity increased in men 0.08 units for each added inch in height. In women the acidity was lowered by 0.02 units for each added inch.
Blasts from the Past: Proliferation Lessons from the 1960s

Strategy document issued by the George W. Bush administration in 2002 portrays a world far different from that of the past. The Cold War was dangerous, but according to this document, its lessons are largely irrelevant to the making of contemporary U.S. strategy. After the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, the United States faced a “status quo, risk-adverse” adversary—the Soviet Union—that believed that weapons of mass destruction should be used only as a last resort. In contrast, the United States is currently confronted by “rogue states” that “brutalize their own people,” “threaten their neighbors,” “sponsor terrorism,” and “hate the United States and everything for which it stands.” Most important, rogue states “are determined to acquire weapons of mass destruction” to “achieve the aggressive designs of these regimes.” In so doing, they have created a world that is far “more complex and dangerous” than the international system of the 1960s. As a result, Cold War concepts such as deterrence are ineffective in a “security environment that has undergone profound transformation.”1 U.S. policymakers responsible for assessing international politics following the testing of an atomic device by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on October 16, 1964, would have been puzzled by the Bush administration’s characterization of their world. Four decades ago, the threat posed by a
Reduction of azo dyes with zero-valent iron

Abstract The reduction of azo dyes by zero-valent iron metal (Fe0) at pH 7.0 in 10 mM HEPES buffer was studied in aqueous, anaerobic batch systems. Orange II was reduced by cleavage of the azo linkage, as evidenced by the production of sulfanilic acid (a substituted aniline). Adsorption of the dyes on iron particles was less than 4% of the initial concentration, and >90% mass balance was achieved by summing aqueous concentrations of dye and product amine. All of the 9 azo dyes tested were reduced with first-order kinetics. The kinetics of decolorization at the λmax of each dye were rapid: a typical kobs was 0.35±0.01 min−1 for Orange II at 130 rpm on an orbital shaker, corresponding to a surface area normalized rate constant (kSA) of 0.21±0.01 L m−2 min−1. The rate of reduction of Crocein Orange G varied with initial dye concentration in a way that suggests saturation of surface sites on the Fe0, and varied with the square-root of mixing rate (rpm) in a manner indicative of mass transfer limited kinetics. Correlation analysis using kobs for all of the azo dyes, estimates of their diffusion coefficients, and calculated energies of their lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (ELUMO), gave no strong trends that could be used to derive structure-activity relationships. Using an authentic sample of wastewater from a dye manufacturing operation and construction-grade granular Fe0, rapid decolorization was achieved that was consistent with reduction of azo dyes.
Minor alkaloids of Aspidosperma subincanum mart.: isolation, structure proof and synthesis of 1,2-dihydro-ellipticine, 1,2-dihydro-ellipticine methonitrate and ellipticine methonitrate

Abstract Three alkaloids named in the title were isolated from the Peruvian plant “Quillo-bordon.” The structures assigned were confirmed by partial syntheses.
Lower esophageal sphincter pressure in histologic esophagitis

The fasting lower esophageal sphincter pressure of 18 normal volunteers was compared to 22 patients with symptoms and objective evidence of gastroesophageal reflux. Lower esophageal sphincter pressure was measured by rapid pull-through using an 8-lumen radially perfused catheter that sampled pressure every 45 degrees around the circumference of the sphincter. The 22 reflux patients were subdivided for analysis into two groups, those with an acute inflammatory infiltrate on biopsy and those without inflammation. Those patients without inflammatory esophagitis had normal sphincter pressures. Those with a definite inflammatory infiltrate had pressures significantly less than normal. The least reliable separation between normals and those with inflammatory esophagitis occurred in the anterior orientations. We conclude that while basal lower, esophageal sphincter pressure measurement may identify patients with reflux and inflammatory esophagitis, it is of no help in identifying those patients with reflux unassociated with inflammation. Decreased basal fasting LESP does not appear to be the most important primary determinant of gastroesophageal reflux.
Intersubband device applications of nitride quantum structures

Nitride semiconductor quantum structures feature some unique properties for intersubband device development, including a record large conduction-band offset that allows extending the operating wavelength to the near-infrared spectral region, and large optical phonon energies that are advantageous for the development of THz devices. In this paper we review our recent work aimed at the demonstration of novel intersubband device functionalities using these materials. In particular, we have developed ultrafast all-optical switching devices operating at fiber-optic communication wavelengths, based on intersubband cross-absorption saturation in GaN/AlN quantum-well waveguides. Strong self-phase modulation of ultrafast optical pulses has also been measured in these waveguides, revealing a large intersubband refractive-index nonlinearity which is also promising for all-optical switching applications. Furthermore, we have demonstrated optically pumped intersubband light emission from GaN/AlN quantum wells at the record short wavelength of about 2 μm. Finally, we have used a rigorous Monte Carlo model to show that GaN/AlGaN quantum wells are promising for the development of THz quantum cascade lasers capable in principle of operation without cryogenic cooling.
Adverse Sedation Events in Pediatrics

To the Editor. Cote et al1 have identified training and the ability to manage complications as major factors in the safe delivery of sedation to pediatric patients. The validity of these conclusions is reflected in the experience of the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists. This subset of dentists is characterized by having 2 years of anesthesia residency training in both hospital and nonhospital venues. Since the organization's inception 2 decades ago, there have been no known incidents of mortality or significant morbidity in children managed in the dental office by a dentist anesthesiologist. The practice parameters of …