cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Progesterone inhibition of maternal behavior in the rat.

Abstract The present series of experiments investigated the role of progesterone in inhibiting the onset of maternal behavior in the rat. Female rats hysterectomized and ovariectomized on Day 16 of pregnancy and injected subcutaneously with 20 μg/kg of estradiol benzoate (EB) show a short latency to onset of maternal behavior when presented with test pups 48 hr later. A subcutaneous injection of either 1 or 5 mg of progesterone on Day 16 of pregnancy and again 24 hr later inhibited this EB-induced short-latency onset of maternal behavior. The central neural site at which progesterone might act to produce this inhibitory effect was explored. Famale rats, hysterectomized and ovariectomized on Day 16 of pregnancy and injected subcutaneously with EB, received implants of crystalline progesterone on Day 16 of pregnancy into either the medial preoptic area, ventromedial hypothalamus, midbrain tegmentum, dorsal raphe nucleus, or median raphe nucleus. No inhibitory effects were found and all females showed a short-latency onset of maternal behavior. Several possible explanations for this lack of inhibitory effect of intracerebral implantation of progesterone are discussed.
Sex differences in the renal transforming growth factor-β1 system after puberty

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been implicated in many progressive kidney diseases. The present study examines this growth factor during the pubertal and early adult periods. Mixed-sex Munich- Wistar rat kidneys were obtained on selected days of life from birth through 6 months of age. A survey of the TGF-β1 system was performed, and then a second experiment focused on cortex and medulla from both sexes at 6 weeks and 16 weeks of age. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for TGF-β1 and TGF-β inducible gene H3 (βIG-H3) was performed. Active and to- tal levels of protein for TGF-β1 were isolated from tissue. Active levels of TGF-β1 were somewhat lower in older than in younger animals, without sex differences. βIG-H3 levels were similar. At 16 weeks females had levels of total growth factor approximately threefold greater than males, while adult males appeared to activate the growth factor much more efficiently. These findings suggest that activation of TGF-β1 becomes more efficient following puberty in the male rat, while females appear to have reduced activation efficiency compensated by increased total growth factor. These differences may help explain the deterioration at puberty and sexual dimorphism noted with some progressive nephropathies.
Direct measurement of compositional complexity-induced electronic inhomogeneity in VO2 thin films grown on gate dielectrics

We report on measurements of variation in metal-insulator transition characteristics through thickness in VO2 film grown on model SiO2 gate insulator by nanometric scale controlled etching followed by electrical and compositional measurements. The phase transition magnitude defined as ratio of resistivity at 25 °C to that at 100 °C of VO2 decreases from ∼159 at the surface to ∼14 at ∼10 nm away from a VO2/SiO2 interface, showing a difference of >10 times, while that for a VO2 thin film grown with identical conditions on single crystal sapphire only shows ∼3 times difference. The off-stoichiometric composition near the VO2/SiO2 interface induced by unoriented growth on amorphous SiO2 is likely responsible for the dramatic change in transition characteristics.
Molecular Design of Functionalized m-Poly(phenylene ethynylene) Foldamers: from Simulation to Synthesis

m-Poly(phenylene ethynylene)s (mPPEs) are a class of synthetic molecules being used for biocide coatings, catalysis, as well as chemical and biomolecule sensing because they exhibit a propensity to...
Pharmaceutical, biological and industrial applications of terahert spectroscopy and imaging for IRMMW-THz 2013

The terahertz range of the electromagnetic spectrum falls between the more familiar microwave and infrared regions. Advances in pulsed terahertz technology over the past decade have led to the development of commercial instrumentation for spectroscopy and imaging. Terahertz analysis is non-destructive for materials as well as living tissue and its high depth of penetration offers many advantages over other techniques. Terahertz spectroscopy is well suited for the identification of crystalline polymorphs and for real time monitoring of solid form changes in-situ. Terahertz imaging is ideal for measuring the thicknesses and properties of multilayered structures such as tablet and paint coatings. Terahertz techniques for measuring bulk physical properties (e.g. electric field permittivity) also have the potential to determine the efficacy of drugs and to detect disease states in cell cultures. In this poster, we present the background of terahertz analysis and instrumentation and provide examples of several recent applications from our laboratory.
Nonsurgical Removal of a Kinked Right Coronary Catheter

Cardiac catheterization is a commonly performed procedure affording valuable data. Catheter related complications such as catheter knotting, fracture, and collapse have been reported. Occasionally surgery is needed to extricate an entrapped catheter when nonsurgical means are unsuccessful. We describe a case of kinking of a right coronary catheter during transfemoral coronary arteriography, so that the catheter could not be withdrawn. A simple, nontraumatic method facilitated removal of the kinked catheter and permitted completion of the procedure, obviating the need for surgery.
The role of radionuclides in clinical oncology.

The major role of radionuclides in clinical oncology is, in the broadest sense, "tumor scanning". This includes evaluating specific organs for the presence of tumor (usually with different radiopharmaceuticals for each organ) or the entire body (generalized tumor searches with radiopharmaceuticals like 67 Ga-citrate or 111 Inlabeled bleomycin). The clinician uses these agents in the initial evaluation of the extent of tumor (staging) and in the subsequent management of the patient with cancer to assess response to treatment, to detect early relapse, and to assist in making decisions concerning treatment. The uses and limitations of the agents currently available for tumor scanning are summarized in this review (by major tumor type) from the perspective of the practicing oncologist. Other potential roles for radionuclides, including use as components of combined modality treatment programs, use as labels for antibodies or as drugs for both diagnosis and treatment, and use in the prediction of response to treatment, which are of great interest now and which will become realities for the oncologist in the future, are also considered.
Cost Analysis Of Broadband Service Delivery Systems

Costs for active double-star fiber networks for local exchange service are compared with the costs of copper twisted-pair single-star networks and copper coaxial-line tree networks with switching at the customer's premises. For both existing and new neighborhoods, it appears that delivery of broadband services through tree networks (possibly using fiber) and delivery of narrow band services through copper twisted-pair star networks will be the minimum cost approach for low market penetrations of the broadband service market. For near 100 percent market penetrations there is relatively little difference in the costs of the two approaches.
Effective Molecular Weight of Aqueous Solutions and Liquid Foods Calculated From the Freezing Point Depression

Freezing point depression (FPD) methods were applied to estimate the effective molecular weights of pure solutions and liquid foods. Explicit expressions among FPD, molecular weight and concentration were developed. The estimated molecular weights were about 333–356 for skim milk, 347–350 for coffee beverage, 164–167 for grape juice and 196–203 for tomato juice. The FPD methods were considered accurate for nonacidic foods but they could underestimate the values for acidic foods.
The formation of supercooled brines, viscous liquids, and low-temperature perchlorate glasses in aqueous solutions relevant to Mars

Salt solutions on Mars can stabilize liquid water at low temperatures by lowering the freezing point of water. The maximum equilibrium freezing-point depression possible, known as the eutectic temperature, suggests a lower temperature limit for liquid water on Mars; however, salt solutions can supercool below their eutectic before crystallization occurs. To investigate the magnitude of supercooling and its variation with salt composition and concentration, we performed slow cooling and warming experiments on pure salt solutions and saturated soil-solutions of MgSO4, MgCl2, NaCl, NaClO4, Mg(ClO4)2, and Ca(ClO4)2 .B y monitoring solution temperatures, we identified exothermic crystallization events and determined the composition of precipitated phases from the eutectic melting temperature. Our results indicate that supercooling is pervasive. In general, supercooling is greater in more concentrated solutions and with salts of Ca and Mg. Slowly cooled MgSO4, MgCl2, NaCl, and NaClO4 solutions investigated in this study typically supercool 5–15 C below their eutectic temperature before crystallizing. The addition of soil to these salt solutions has a variable effect on supercooling. Relative to the pure salt solutions, supercooling decreases in MgSO4 soil-solutions, increases in MgCl2 soil-solutions, and is similar in NaCl and NaClO4 soil-solutions. Supercooling in MgSO4, MgCl2, NaCl, and NaClO4 solutions could marginally extend the duration of liquid water during relatively warm daytime temperatures in the martian summer. In contrast, we find that Mg(ClO4)2 and Ca(ClO4)2 solutions do not crystallize during slow cooling, but
Study of the flow mixing in a novel open-channel raceway for algae production

Making fuel from algae is one of the promising approaches of producing biofuels. Open channel raceway is a typical facility of growing algae in medium and large scales. The algae growth rate in water raceway is affected by conditions of water temperature, nutrients, and sunlight. These conditions are essentially associated with the fluid mixing in the flow field. A good mixing of fluid allows better diffusion of nutrients and equal opportunities of exposure to the water surface and therefore sunlight, as well as a uniform temperature everywhere in water raceway so that all algae cells grow in the same rate. While a better fluid mixing is benefit to the growth of algae, it is also desirable that the energy needed to drive the flow and mixing being the minimum. In this work, a novel flow field has been proposed and the flow field was studied through flow visualization and CFD analysis. Optimization of the flow field for better flow mixing and low energy cost for the flow has been considered.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Psychosocial distress, coping, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in adult women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

years of follow-up, 7 (50%) of 14 patients were CC sensitive, demonstrating the continuous effect of LOD. Of all the preoperative test values for the patients who experienced a long-term continuous effect, only the FSH values were found to be significantly higher. CONCLUSION: FSH values were significantly related tomaintaining longterm spontaneous ovulation after LOD, suggesting that examining preoperative FSH values would be useful in predicting prognosis when deciding whether LOD should be indicated. Moreover, the effect was maintained for >10 years in at least 50% of cases in which long-term follow-up was possible.
TGF-β/Smad3 Stimulates Stem Cell/Developmental Gene Expression and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell De-Differentiation

Atherosclerotic-associated diseases are the leading cause of death in the United States. Despite recent progress, interventional treatments for atherosclerosis can be complicated by restenosis resulting from neo-intimal hyperplasia. We have previously demonstrated that TGF-β and its downstream signaling protein Smad3∶1) are up-regulated following vascular injury, 2) together drive smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and migration and 3) enhance the development of intimal hyperplasia. In order to determine a mechanism through which TGF-β/Smad3 promote these effects, Affymetrix gene expression arrays were performed on primary rat SMCs infected with Smad3 and stimulated with TGF-β or infected with GFP alone. More than 200 genes were differentially expressed (>2.0 fold change, p<0.05) in TGF-β/Smad3 stimulated SMCs. We then performed GO term enrichment analysis using the DAVID bioinformatics database and found that TGF-β/Smad3 activated the expression of multiple genes related to either development or cell differentiation, several of which have been shown to be associated with multipotent stem or progenitor cells. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed up-regulation of several developmental genes including FGF1, NGF, and Wnt11 (by 2.5, 6 and 7 fold, respectively) as well as stem/progenitor cell associated genes CD34 and CXCR4 (by 10 and 45 fold, respectively). In addition, up-regulation of these factors at protein levels were also confirmed by Western blotting, or by immunocytochemistry (performed for CXCR4 and NGF). Finally, TGF-β/Smad3 down regulated transcription of SMC contractile genes as well as protein production of smooth muscle alpha actin, calponin, and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain. These combined results suggest that TGF-β/Smad3 stimulation drives SMCs to a phenotypically altered state of de-differentiation through the up-regulation of developmental related genes.
The Structure of Higher Goods

L'A. presente une theorie des valeurs qui soutient la these de l'existence des plus grands biens, en fonction de la structure interne des porteurs de la valeur. Adoptant une approche totaliste des valeurs de base, l'A. defend l'utilisation des nombres cardinaux dans la mesure des valeurs intrinseques d'une sequence de situations.
A Comparative Study of Mechanical Properties of Fresh and Elastic-Network Only Proximal Artery Tissues

The contribution of the elastic network to the mechanical behavior of arterial tissues is not well quantified. This paper focuses on the quantification of the behavior of fresh and elastic-network-only (digested) calf arterial tissues in uniaxial deformation using the anisotropic hyperelastic model proposed by Bischoff et al. ([1]). This model characterizes an orthotropic, hyperelastic response, which is well-suited for the modeling of arterial tissues ([2],[3]). For this paper, we attempt to match the material constants associated with the Bischoff-Arruda anisotropic hyperelastic model to our experimental data from arterial tissues including the ascending aortic arch, descending aorta, main, left, and right pulmonary arteries, using a least-squares method. The material parameters obtained from the data fit provide a quantitative comparison of mechanical properties of fresh artery tissues and elastin networks.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Electromechanical response of 1–3 piezoelectric composites: A numerical model to assess the effects of fiber distribution

Abstract A finite element-based numerical model is developed to characterize the effects of fiber distribution in 1–3 piezoelectric active fiber/active matrix composites under primarily static electric fields and elastic stress conditions. Upon identifying 14 characteristic periodic and randomized fiber configurations, the influence of fiber distribution on the coupled response of model ceramic–matrix and polymer–matrix fiber composites with widely different constituent material properties is examined. It is demonstrated that: (i) while certain fiber arrangements provide a higher packing density than others, the fundamental elastic, dielectric and piezoelectric material constants of the 1–3 piezoelectric composites remain largely insensitive to the nature of (periodic or randomized) fiber distributions in the matrix; (ii) the piezoelectric figures of merit of the composite are also invariant to differences in fiber distribution; and (iii) the distribution of internal stresses in the piezoelectric composites in response to mechanical loads tend to be modulated by the nature of the fiber configuration, with the square edge and randomized fiber distributions providing reduced levels of interfacial stresses.
A systematic approach to interpreting Hanle spin precession data in non-local spin valves

Graphene's two dimensional nature and high surface sensitivity have led to fascinating predictions regarding induced spin-based phenomena through careful control of adsorbates on the graphene surface, including the extrinsic spin Hall effect, band gap opening, and induced magnetism. By taking advantage of atomic scale control provided by MBE, we have investigated submonolayer deposition of adsorbates and their interactions with graphene. Spin transport measurements performed in-situ during systematic introduction of atomic hydrogen demonstrated that hydrogen adsorbed on graphene forms magnetic moments that couple via exchange to the injected spin current. The effects of induced magnetic moments are evident in the non-local magnetoresistance and Hanle spin precession. Exchange coupling between the injected spin current and the induced moments impact the Hanle curves through an effective exchange field leading to new interpretations of Hanle spin precession data and analysis. Here we present a simple procedure in which Hanle curves can be reliably interpreted.
Regional Odontodysplasia: Clinical, Pathologic, and Therapeutic Considerations

A case of regional odontodysplasia in a 9-year-old boy is presented. Clinical and pathologic characteristics of this developmental anomaly and its treatment are reviewed.
Monochloramine, a gastrointestinal-specific reactive oxygen-nitrogen species, inhibits caspase-3 activation in isolated gastric glands of the rabbit

Abstract Introduction: Monochloramine (NH2Cl) is a reactive oxidant produced by the reaction of ammonia (NH3, generated by H. Pylori) with hypochlorous acid (HOCl, released by activated neutrophils). Targets of NH2Cl include thiol (S-H) groups on intracellular proteins such as metallothioneins. Oxidation of thiols releases Zn2+, an intracellular signal that prevents apoptosis by inhibiting conversion of procaspase-3 to caspase-3. Here we tested the hypothesis that NH2Cl activates anti-apoptotic pathways. Methods: Gastric glands were isolated from New Zealand White rabbits. To evaluate effects on [Zn2+]i, glands were loaded with the Zn2+-sensitive reporter, fluozin-3. Spontaneous caspase-3 activation was monitored by colorimetric assay, in response to Ringer’s solutions containing NH2Cl: a) alone; b) in the presence of 1mM dithiotreitol (DTT), which blocks thiol oxidation; or c) in the presence of 20μM TPEN, which chelates Zn2+. Results: Acute (30 min) exposure of glands to Ca22+-free Ringer’s containing NH2Cl (100mM) elicited a 7.8 ± 0.9-fold increase in fluozin-3 intensity, corresponding to an increase from 0.1nM to 8nM Zn2+ (n = 5, p 95% at 50μM and 100μM, but was significantly impaired (∼50%) at the highest concentration (200μM). Table . Effects of monochloramine (NH2Cl) on caspase-3 activation Condition 0 NH2Cl 50 μM NH2Cl 100 μM NH2Cl 200 μM NH2Cl Control 100 ± 0 65.2 ± 10.01 ∗ 47.8 ± 11.3 ∗ 19.7 ± 3.7 ∗ 20 uM TPEN 116.8 ± 7.4 103.3 ± 6.2 † 75.8 ± 9.7 † 36.7 ± 10.9 † 1 mM DTT 105.8 ± 5.9 110.8 ± 4.5 † 108.5 ± 5.6 † 104 ± 6.6 † Results reported relative to glands (75ug protein) incubated under control conditions: means ± SE. ∗ p † p Conclusions: Exposure to NH2Cl is not necessarily toxic to gastric glands at concentrations expected in H. pylori-infested mucosa. Paradoxically, NH2Cl may serve as a H. pylori-generated signal that releases Zn2+ and is anti-apoptotic in gastric mucosa.
Uptake of ruthenium-labeled transferrin in healing wounds

Abstract The distribution of 103 Ru-labeled transferrin and [ 67 Ga]citrate in nude mice with healing wounds was investigated. Mice were injected at various times prior to and after experimental skin wounds were made. Tissue samples revealed maximum accumulation of Ru labeled transferrin in injured skin, and adrenal glands. As wound healing progressed the differences between injured and normal skin diminished. [ 67 Ga]citrate did not exhibit preferential uptake. Mobilization of [ 103 Ru]transferrin into fresh wounds occurred as long as 48 h after injection of isotope. During the process of wound healing, and as much as four days after injury, differences between incompletely healed skin and normal skin can be discerned. Clearance studies of 103 Ru in mice revealed that the longest retention was in liver and plasma. [ 103 Ru]transferrin may have potential as a radiopharmaceutical for the study of wound healing in the laboratory setting.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection and Tracking of Nanoprobes: Enhanced Uptake and Nuclear Targeting in Single Cells

We describe the development and application of a co-functionalized nanoprobe and biodelivery platform combining a nuclear targeting peptide (NTP) for improved cellular uptake and intracellular targeting with p-mercaptobenzoic acid (pMBA) as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter for tracking and imaging. The nuclear targeting peptide, an HIV-1 protein-derived TAT sequence, has been previously shown to aid entry of cargo through the cell membrane via normal cellular processes, and furthermore, to localize small cargo to the nucleus of the cell. Previous work in our lab has verified cell uptake and distribution of the nanoprobes in clinically relevant mouse and human cell lines. In this work, two-dimensional SERS mapping was used to track the spatial and temporal progress of nanoparticle uptake in PC-3 human prostate cells and to characterize localization at various time points, demonstrating the potential for an intracellularly targeted multiplexed nanobiosensing system with excellent sensitivity and specificity. Silver nanoparticles co-functionalized with the TAT peptide showed greatly enhanced cellular uptake over the control nanoparticles lacking the targeting moiety. The ability to detect and monitor nanoprobe trafficking using SERS spectroscopy offers an improved alternative over previous tracking and detection methods such as light microscopy and fluorescence methods. The development of multifunctional nanoconstructs for intracellular delivery has potential clinical applications in early detection and selective treatment of disease in affected cells. Other applications include use in basic research aimed at understanding the inner workings of living cells and how they respond to chemical and biological stimuli.
Collinearity of Iterations and Real Plane Algebraic Curves

For a given meromorphic function $g:\mathbb C\to \mathbb C$, we study the locus of points $z$ that are {\it collinear} with their two iterations $g(z)$ and $g(g(z))$. Such points form a {\it collinearity curve}. Generally, this curve is reducible: it has several components. Components of the curve, especially algebraic ones, are investigated. The curve{'}s behavior near a fixed point of the function is explored. We also look into the asymptotic structure of the curve at infinity. The components of the curve are interpretable as vertices and edges of a graph resembling a Voronoi diagram. The collinearity curve, needing a mere two iterates, may help us in understanding the long-term dynamics of the original function on $\mathbb C$ and in visualizing important features of the generated fractal for $g$ and its associated Voronoi diagram.
Project RETRAIN—A modular staff development delivery system

(1993). Project RETRAIN—A modular staff development delivery system. Journal of Science Teacher Education: Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 121-128.
Absolute doubly differential cross sections for ejection of secondary electrons from gases by electron impact. I. 100- and 200-eV electrons on helium

We have measured absolute values of the cross sections for ejection of electrons from helium gas by 100- and 200-eV electrons. These cross sections were measured for emission angles from 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to 150\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and for electron energies from 3 eV to a value equal to the primary energy minus the ionization potential. The measurements were made using a static-gas target and an electrostatic analyzer. The resulting cross sections agree reasonably well with those of Opal, Peterson, and Beaty near 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, but show the need for an adjustment of their angular distributions. Comparison with Born-approximation calculations of Manson et al. at 2 keV indicate that the cross sections of Opal et al. should be divided by $0.53+0.47sin\ensuremath{\theta}$. A somewhat larger correction is needed to bring their data into agreement with the results of this experiment. The adjustment in the angular distributions also affects the cross sections integrated over all angles.
Second generation benzofuranone ring substituted noscapine analogs: Synthesis and biological evaluation

Microtubules, composed of α/β tubulin heterodimers, represent a validated target for cancer chemotherapy. Thus, tubulin- and microtubule-binding antimitotic drugs such as taxanes and vincas are widely employed for the chemotherapeutic management of various malignancies. Although quite successful in the clinic, these drugs are associated with severe toxicity and drug resistance problems. Noscapinoids represent an emerging class of microtubule-modulating anticancer agents based upon the parent molecule noscapine, a naturally occurring non-toxic cough-suppressant opium alkaloid. Here we report in silico molecular modeling, chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of novel analogs derived by modification at position-7 of the benzofuranone ring system of noscapine. The synthesized analogs were evaluated for their tubulin polymerization activity and their biological activity was examined by their antiproliferative potential using representative cancer cell lines from varying tissue-origin [A549 (lung), CEM (lymphoma), MIA PaCa-2 (pancreatic), MCF-7 (breast) and PC-3 (prostate)]. Cell-cycle studies were performed to explore their ability to halt the cell-cycle and induce subsequent apoptosis. The varying biological activity of these analogs that differ in the nature and bulk of substituent at position-7 was rationalized utilizing predictive in silico molecular modeling.
Effects of task relevance and attention on P3 in schizophrenic patients.

The P3 component of the event-related potentials (ERPs) to auditory task-relevant and task-irrelevant stimuli in 'Attend Auditory' (i.e., reaction time task) and 'Attend Visual' (i.e., when the auditory stimuli were being ignored) conditions was investigated in 13 RDC/DSM-III diagnosed schizophrenic patients. ERPs were recorded from Fz, Cz, and Pz. Compared to controls, schizophrenics had a significantly smaller P3 in the Attend Auditory than in the Attend Visual condition and to the task-relevant than to the task-irrelevant stimuli. Furthermore, the patients' P3 response to the most salient task-irrelevant stimuli in the Attend visual condition was normal. The results are discussed as suggesting that schizophrenics either allocate relatively more resources to task-irrelevant than task-relevant stimuli or that they fail to habituate to task-irrelevant stimuli.
GROUP SELECTION EDGE EFFECTS ON THE VASCULAR PLANT COMMUNITY OF A SIERRA NEVADA OLD-GROWTH FOREST

ABSTRACT For an old-growth forest edge in the Sierra Nevada, we quantified the extent of edge effects from a group selection harvest. Across transects from the interior of the old-growth forest through the group selection opening, we quantified changes in resource availability (light, soil moisture, and seedbed) and vegetation composition (cover, richness). We found a steep change in light availability and community composition from the intact old-growth to the group selection. Both parametric and non-parametric multivariate analyses indicated two distinct plant associations, old-growth and group selection, with little indication of an edge association. Understory plant species richness normalized to a total area sampled of 0.25 ha was significantly greater in the group selection (74 species) than in the old-growth (55 species). Chimaphila umbellata and Carex brainerdii were the most abundant species in the old-growth and group selection respectively. Tragopogon dubius was the most abundant of six exotic ...
Particle filtering based data detection in a flat-fading relay-based communication system

In this paper, we deal with the problem of joint data detection and channel estimation in a relay-based communication system. We consider a system where an amplify-and-forward relay is used to transmit data between a receiver and a transmitter in flat-fading channels. Our proposed algorithms are based on particle filtering techniques. The algorithms are derived by representing the transmission process as a dynamic system where both the transmitter-to-relay and relay-to-receiver channels are modeled as second order autoregressive (AR) processes. The performance of the proposed algorithms is investigated through computer simulations that illustrate the effectiveness of the developed receivers in terms of their Symbol Error Rate (SER).
Endothelin action on vascular smooth muscle involves inositol trisphosphate and calcium mobilization

Summary Cultured endothelial cells release a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, endothelin. Cumulative addition of synthetic endothelin to isolated rabbit aortic rings elicited a concentration-dependent increase in contractile tension which was endothelium-independent. In cultured rabbit vascular smooth muscle cells loaded with the fluorescent dye fura 2, endothelin induced a concentration-dependent increase in [Ca 2+ ] i over the range of 0.01 to 100 nM. Moreover, in the absence of extracellular Ca 2+ , endothelin could still induce an increase in [Ca 2+ ] i . In addition, endothelin stimulated 45 Ca 2+ efflux from preloaded vascular smooth muscle cells in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca 2+ , as well as stimulating 45 Ca 2+ influx in a concentration-dependent manner. Measurement of inositol phosphates in [ 3 H]-myoinositol-labelled vascular smooth muscle cells showed that endothelin induced rapid (15 sec), transient formation of inositol trisphosphate. Unlabelled endothelin inhibited [ 125 I]-endothelin binding to cultured rabbit vascular smooth muscle cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Binding was not inhibited by other vasoactive hormones or calcium channel ligands, suggesting cell surface receptors specific for endothelin. We conclude that one of the initial membrane events in the action of endothelin is to induce phospholipase C-stimulated PIP 2 hydrolysis and that this signalling mechanism is initiated by endothelin/receptor interaction at the plasma membrane.
Relationship of urinary anion gap to urinary ammonium excretion in the neonate.

The present study was undertaken to define the relationship of urinary anion gap (UAG = sodium plus potassium minus chloride) to urine ammonium concentration in preterm and full-term neonates with spo
Ultrasound in the diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the cubital tunnel.

Purpose Ulnar neuropathy at the cubital tunnel (UCT) is diagnosed on the basis of history, physical examination, and nerve conduction studies (NCSs); however, the wide spectrum of findings often makes the diagnosis difficult. The purpose of this study was to document the ultrasonographic differences in ulnar nerve size between patients with UCT and control subjects, and to correlate those differences with clinical examination findings and NCS abnormalities, thereby testing the validity of ultrasound (US) as an additional adjunct diagnostic modality for UCT. Methods Fifteen elbows in 14 patients with symptoms, clinical examination, and NCS findings consistent with UCT had US of the ulnar nerve. Patients were excluded if they had a history of polyneuropathy, acute trauma involving the upper extremity, previous trauma in the region of the elbow (including previous surgery), or brachial plexus injury. The control group consisted of 60 elbows from 30 normal volunteers that also had US. Maximal cross-sectional areas (CSAs) were measured and compared for the 2 groups and a correlation analysis was performed between nerve size and NCS findings. Results The average CSA of the ulnar nerve was 0.065 cm 2 in the control group, whereas in the UCT group it was 0.19 cm 2 , indicating a significant statistical difference in ulnar nerve size between the 2 groups. The Pearson correlation coefficient between motor nerve conduction velocity of the ulnar nerve and the CSA was 0.80. Conclusions High-resolution US is a noninvasive, safe, and reliable modality for imaging the ulnar nerve at the elbow and it may provide a valuable adjunct to NCS in the diagnosis of UCT. Type of study/level of evidence Diagnostic III.
Usage of sparse matrix methods in material balance calculations

Abstract The material balance equations for a variety of related chemical commodities manufactured in one large co-sited complex or several such complexes are linear in nature and can be written in matrix form. Also, because generally only one to three raw materials are required in the manufacture of each commodity which, in turn, may be used in the manufacture of only a few downstream commodities, the coefficient matrix is sparse in nature (population density ⋍ 10%). Thus, methods which have been specifically developed for the reduction of sparse matrices may be employed in solving these material balance equations. The sparse matrix reduction procedure, originally developed by Bending and Hutchison, is employed in the work described herein. This application is particularly effective when these equations are to be solved repetitively, such as in parametric case studies, and results in considerable savings in computer time and memory requirements.
Performance Of Synthetic Discriminant Functions For Infrared Ship Classification

Our unified synthetic discriminant function (SDF) filter synthesis technique using the correlation matrix of the image training set is reviewed. Four different synthetic discriminant functions for intra-class recognition, inter-class discrimination and both intra and inter-class pattern recognition are considered. All techniques proposed are appropriate for object identification, location and classification in the presence of 3-D geometrical distortions in the input object. Initial results obtained on a set of four different classes of infrared ship imagery are presented. Excellent performance (over 90% correct classification) was achieved.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
WHAT IS NEEDED AND WHY

I think that my part in the proceedings to‐night is certainly the easier part and I think that it is perhaps right that it should be the briefer part. I have to set, as your Chairman has said, a course which Mr. Mallaber has to follow, and I may, in setting the course, lead him into some rather murky and rough waters. We should therefore give him plenty of time to steer on an even keel through them.
Expression of nitric oxide synthase isoforms in human pregnant myometrium at term.

To determine whether nitric oxide synthase isoforms are expressed in human myometrium, to define their localization, and to examine the possibility that one or more may play a role in initiating labor. Human myometrial biopsies were collected from term laboring and nonlaboring patients. The mRNA expression was assessed using in situ hybridization. The relative expression levels were also assessed by Affymetrix GeneChip hybridization. The protein expression was determined using Western blot analysis, and localization was shown using immunostaining. Both inducible nitric oxide synthase and brain nitric oxide synthase were expressed in myometrial cells and blood vessel endothelial cells. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase was expressed exclusively in blood vessel endothelial cells. There were no differences in distribution or quantity of nitric oxide synthase expression between term labor and nnonlabor myometrium. All three isotypes of nitric oxide synthases were expressed in human pregnant term uterus. Their expression did not change in the myometrium of the laboring uterus.
Acute administration of MIF-1 or Tyr-MIF-1 inhibits haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats.

Abstract The effects of MIF-1 (Pro-Leu-Gly-NH 2 ) and Tyr-MIF-1 (Tyr-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH 2 ) on haloperidol-induced catalepsy were studied in order to examine the influences of both peptides on central dopaminergic function. In the first experiment, several variables were tested. It was found that the optimal effect was achieved with a dose of 1.0 mg/kg haloperidol injected SC an hour before testing for catalepsy and 1.0 mg/kg MIF-1 injected SC 30 min before testing. In the second experiment, Tyr-MIF-1 as wwell as single injected as single injections at four doses. Catalepsy was inhibited in an inverted U-shape dose-response relationship with the maximal effect of each peptide occurring at 1.0 mg/kg. The results indicate that when careful attention is given to dose, both MIF-1 and Tyr-MIF-1 can activate dopaminergic neuronal activity after acute administration.
Operators that move the nuclei of a molecule along paths of constant orbital energy

Abstract We develop one-parameter groups of operators that move the nuclei of a molecule along paths of constant orbital energy while appropriately transforming electronic eigenstates. Simple approximate operators that determine the functional form of level curves for H 2+ 3 illustrate the theory. Scale transformations are found to approximately convert the orbital isoenergetic curves of the ground state into those of two excited states of H 2+ 3 .
Expected Relatedness: Correction

In our report “The selective advantage of low relatedness” (6 Aug., p. [891][1]), reference 15 contained an error. The expected relatedness in a colony as a function of the effective number of matings should have read, (0.25 + 0.5)/ n e, where n e is the effective number of matings. This
Neurokinin 1 receptor distribution in cholinergic neurons and targets of substance P terminals in the rat nucleus accumbens

Substance P (SP) is the major endogenous ligand for neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptors and, together with acetylcholine, has an important role in motivated behaviors involving the limbic shell and motor core of the nucleus accumbens (NAc). To determine the functional sites for SP activation of NK-1 receptors and potential interactions with cholinergic neurons in these regions, the authors examined the electron microscopic immunocytochemical localization either of antisera against the NK1 receptor or of the NK1 receptor and either 1) SP or 2) the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAchT) in rat NAc. In both the NAc shell and core, NK1 receptor labeling was localized mainly to somatic and dendritic plasma membranes and nearby endosomal organelles in aspiny neurons. In sections through the ventromedial shell that were processed for NK1/SP labeling, 46% of the NK1-immunoreactive dendrites (n = 603 dendrites) showed symmetric or appositional contacts with SP-containing terminals. These terminals and several others that formed symmetric synapses also occasionally were immunoreactive for NK1 receptors. Analysis of the shell region for NK1/VAchT labeling showed that 61% of the total immunoreactive dendrites (n = 534 dendrites) contained NK1 receptors without VAchT, 29% contained both products, and 10% contained VAchT only. Many of the labeled somata and dendrites also received synaptic contact from VAchT-containing terminals. These findings suggest that, in the NAc, NK1 receptors are recycled through endosomal compartments and play a role in modulating mainly the postsynaptic responses, but also the presynaptic release, of SP and/or inhibitory neurotransmitters onto aspiny interneurons, some of which are cholinergic.
Psychosocial intervention with the child cancer patient and family

Abstract Malignancy in the child or adolescent presents a major life stress for all concerned—patient, family, and professionals. All too often, psychological impairment results in the patient and family members. Adequate psychosocial intervention must take into consideration the influence of the patient's age on his or her understanding of illness and death, the characteristic reactions of parents and siblings, and the key points in the course of the illness.
Defect Formation during Supercritical Extraction of Binder from Green Ceramic Components

Supercritical extraction in carbon dioxide has been used to remove binder consisting of 60 wt% poly(vinyl butyral) and 40 wt% dioctyl phthalate from multilayer ceramic capacitors containing barium titanate as the dielectric. The amount of binder removed increases as both the temperature and pressure of the supercritical fluid increases; a maximum of ∼50% of the binder can be removed using carbon dioxide in 3 h at 75°C and 40 MPa. During depressurization from the supercritical state, defects such as fracture and delamination were occasionally observed in the green body. The occurrence of defects is related to the rate of depressurization, the permeability of the body, and the green strength of the body. The origin of the defects is discussed, and ways to mitigate them are presented.
Electrical Field-Flow Fractionation in a Rigid Membrane Channel

Abstract Experimental problems associated with the previous flexible membrane system of electrical field-flow fractionation (EFFF) are first reviewed. The potential advantages of an effective EFFF system are then discussed and compared to those of electrophoresis. The general theory of EFFF is briefly stated, and the possible means for evaluating electrical field strength in the fractionating channel are discussed. Results are presented for protein components showing that retention follows the predicted behavior with variations in field strength. Furthermore, retention becomes theoretically predictable in numerical magnitude with the aid of an internal standard. The determining parameter for this calculable retention is the ratio D/μ, where D is the diffusion coefficient and μ is mobility. The results show that D/μ becomes a measurable parameter using this system. Preliminary efforts to induce the retention of denatured proteins and polystyrene beads are shown to be unsuccessful for entirely independent r...
Angle-only tracking filter in modified spherical coordinates

References Gregory, C. Z., Jr., "Reduction of Large Flexible Spacecraft Models Using Internal Balancing Theory,'* Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics, Vol. 7, 1984, pp. 725-732. Moore, B. C., "Principal Component Analysis in Linear Systems: Controllability, Observability, and Model Reduction," IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control, Vol. AC-26, 1981, pp. 17-32. Gawronski, W., and Williams, T., "Model Reduction for Flexible Space Structures," Proceedings of the AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ ASC30th Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference, AIAA, Washington, DC, 1989, pp. 1555-1565. Gawronski, W., and Juang, J.-N., "Near-Optimal Model Reduction in Balanced and Modal Coordinates," Proceedings of 26th Annual A llerton Conference on Communication, Control and Computing, Sept. 1988, pp. 209-219. Skelton, R. E., "Cost Decomposition of Linear Systems with Application to Model Reduction," International Journal of Control, Vol. 32, No. 6, 1980, pp. 1031-1055. Skelton, R. E., and Yousuff, A., "Component Cost Analysis of Large Scale Systems," International Journal of Control, Vol. 37, No. 2, 1983, pp. 285-304. Clough, R. W., and Penzien, J., Dynamics of Structures, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1975. Angle-Only Tracking Filter in Modified Spherical Coordinates
Effective interaction for 1P shell nuclei calculated from the Hamada-Johnston potential☆☆☆

Abstract Reaction matrix elements with respect to harmonic oscillator orbitals for use in shell model calculations of the spectra of the 1p shell nuclei have been calculated in the extended Eden-Emery approximation employing the Hamada-Johnston potential.
Palmitate-derivatized antibodies can function as surrogate receptors for mediating specific cell-cell interactions

Abstract The observation that exogenously supplied agents can bypass intrinsic recognition mechanisms and facilitate cellular conjugation has led to valuable insights into the mechanisms of cell function. A common feature of currently available cellular conjugation agents is their reliance on endogenous membrane molecules on both cell types as anchors for cellular interactions. In this report, we describe a method for incorporating palmitate-derivatized antibody molecules onto cell membranes where they function as ‘surrogate receptors’ (SR) for mediating specific cellular interactions. In this system, SR are attached to the plasma membrane by insertion of the palmitate hydrocarbon chains into the outer leaflet of the phospholipid bilayer. Therefore, the palmitate anchor by passeshe requirement for FcR or other endogenous membrane proteins in antibody-dependent cellular conjugation. Due to this mode of attachment, which is similar to that of phosphatidylinositol (PI) anchored proteins, SR-mediated cellular interactions are likely to be reminiscent of native receptor-induced conjugation, enabling SR to cooperate with endogenous target recognition structures in receptor-ligand interactions at the cell-cell interface.
Controlled expansion for certain non-Fermi-liquid metals

The destruction of Fermi-liquid behavior when a gapless Fermi surface is coupled to a fluctuating gapless boson field is studied theoretically. This problem arises in a number of different contexts in quantum many-body physics. Examples include fermions coupled to a fluctuating transverse gauge field pertinent to quantum spin-liquid Mott insulators, and quantum critical metals near a Pomeranchuk transition. We develop a controlled theoretical approach to determine the low-energy physics. Our approach relies on combining an expansion in the inverse number $(N)$ of fermion species with a further expansion in the parameter $ϵ={z}_{b}\ensuremath{-}2$, where ${z}_{b}$ is the dynamical critical exponent of the boson field. We show how this limit allows a systematic calculation of the universal low-energy physics of these problems. The method is illustrated by studying spinon Fermi-surface spin liquids, and a quantum critical metal at a second-order electronic nematic phase transition. We calculate the low-energy single-particle spectra, and various interesting two-particle correlation functions. In some cases, deviations from the popular random-phase approximation results are found. Some of the same universal singularities are also calculated to leading nonvanishing order using a perturbative renormalization-group calculation at small $N$ extending previous results of Nayak and Wilczek. Implications for quantum spin liquids and for Pomeranchuk transitions are discussed. For quantum critical metals at a nematic transition, we show that the tunneling density of states has a power-law suppression at low energies.
The x-ray crystal and molecular structure of glechomafuran

The X-ray crystal structure of glechomafuran (1β,10α,4α,5β-diepoxy-7,8-furanogermacrane), a natural product obtained from seeds ofSmyrnium olusatrum L., has been determined in order to establish the correct relative configuration of the molecule. Crystals are monoclinic, space groupP21 witha=6.785(4),b=12.325(9),c=16.390(6) A,β=97.89(4)°, and four molecules in the unit cell. The two epoxides are found to be α,β-attached, and the associated methyl groups are positionedsyn to each other. The furan ring is essentially flat, and shows no evidence of any double bond delocalization.
Incidence codes of posets: Eulerian posets and Reed-Muller codes

This paper shows how to construct analogs of Reed-Muller codes from partially ordered sets. In the case that the partially ordered set is Eulerian the length of the code is the number of elements in the poset, the dimension is the size of a selected order ideal and the minimum distance is the minimum size of a principal dual ideal generated by a member of the order ideal. In this case, the majority logic method of decoding Reed-Muller codes works for incidence codes. A number of interesting combinatorial questions arise from the study of these codes.