cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New enrichment and multiple sampling procedures to investigate radioactive tracer mixing in a small river

Abstract Recent work in the measurement of flow in rivers and canals with radioactive tracers has stressed the importance of the use of many sampling points. A thorough investigation of the lateral distribution of the tracer at sampling stations is necessary. Invariably, it is the distance required for complete lateral dispersion of tracer which determines the mixing distance in natural streams. The use of floating samplers was found to be most satisfactory in an investigation of lateral mixing in a small stream. The small size of the samplers, 1000 ml, ensured that comprehensive investigations using many sampling points were undertaken without difficulties of handling after the experiment. A new method of concentration of radioisotopes using paper evaporation of the samples ensured that the tracer was counted with high detection sensitivity despite the small volume of samples. Accurate measurement of the tracer concentration as a function of time at two stations allowed the tracer passage curves to be reliably determined. Use of this data enabled the longitudinal dispersion coefficient to be calculated by two methods.
“From Coal to Cool”: The Creative Class, Social Capital, and the Revitalization of Scranton

ABSTRACT:This study examines the processes of revitalization within small cities, using Scranton, a postindustrial city in Northeast Pennsylvania, as a case study. Through qualitative interviews, I...
A Computational Approach to Understand Phenotypic Structure and Constitutive Mechanics Relationships of Single Cells

The goal of this study is to construct a representative 3D finite element model (FEM) of individual cells based on their sub-cellular structures that predicts cell mechanical behavior. The FEM simulations replicate atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanoindentation experiments on live vascular smooth muscle cells. Individual cells are characterized mechanically with AFM and then imaged in 3D using a spinning disc confocal microscope. Using these images, geometries for the FEM are automatically generated via image segmentation and linear programming algorithms. The geometries consist of independent structures representing the nucleus, actin stress fiber network, and cytoplasm. These are imported into commercial software for mesh refinement and analysis. The FEM presented here is capable of predicting AFM results well for 500 nm indentations. The FEM results are relatively insensitive to both the exact number and diameter of fibers used. Despite the localized nature of AFM nanoindentation, the model predicts that stresses are distributed in an anisotropic manner throughout the cell body via the actin stress fibers. This pattern of stress distribution is likely a result of the geometric arrangement of the actin network.
Reducing Journal Stacks: How Tufts University's Hirsh Health Sciences Library Made Electronic Journals Work for Them

In 2007, the Collections Management department at Tufts University's Hirsh Health Sciences Library (HHSL) reduced journal stacks to make room for additional seating and classrooms as part of a renovation to the Medical School's Sackler Center for Medical Education. Additional space was necessary to accommodate the library's increasing role in education and research at the medical school and a growing student population. Offsite storage with compact shelving was under construction nearby. Journals were identified for offsite storage by focusing on print titles that came with an online equivalent rather than using chronology to shift journals offsite. The goal was to keep storage retrieval requests to a minimum for patrons and staff.
Equilibrium Scour Downstream of Three-Dimensional Grade-Control Structures

To promote grade-control, bank stability, and fish habitat enhancement, three-dimensional structures installed within river channels are becoming increasingly popular choices for rehabilitation. A-, U-, and W-shaped rock weirs are commonly used in streams, yet three-dimensional scour holes develop downstream of the weir crest and often undermine the weir foundation. Current approaches for the prediction of scour depth and geometry are generally extrapolated from the case of two-dimensional flow. Furthermore, data from the literature regarding structures inciting significant lateral flow components are sparse. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted in which data from A-, U-, and W-shaped weirs were collected and evaluated using scour-prediction methodologies, focusing on their applicability to predict maximum scour depths. New dimensionless expressions were developed for the prediction of scour depth downstream of A-, U-, and W-shaped weirs on the basis of laboratory data that incorporate specif...
Inquiry in television cooking shows

This article raises the important question as to why cooking, a seemingly mundane practice, performs social and cultural functions that go much beyond cooking, cooking instructions, and food prepar...
Biophysical Limits of Protein–Ligand Binding

In classic work, Kuntz et al. (Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA1999, 96, 9997–10002) introduced the concept of ligand efficiency. Though that study focused primarily on drug-like molecules, it also showed that metal binding led to the greatest ligand efficiencies. Here, the physical limits of binding are examined across the wide variety of small molecules in the Binding MOAD database. The complexes with the greatest ligand efficiencies share the trait of being small, charged ligands bound in highly charged, well buried binding sites. The limit of ligand efficiency is −1.75 kcal/mol·atom for the protein–ligand complexes within Binding MOAD, and 95% of the set have efficiencies below a “soft limit” of −0.83 kcal/mol·atom. On the basis of buried molecular surface area, the hard limit of ligand efficiency is −117 cal/mol·A2, which is in surprising agreement with the limit of macromolecule–protein binding. Close examination of the most efficient systems reveals their incredibly high efficiency is dictated by tight co...
Motion and display effects on perception of multiple coronary stents

The placement of multiple coronary stents requires fine judgments of distance between a deployed stent and stent/guidewire assembly. The goal of this deployment is to achieve continuous and gapless coverage between them. However, making these judgments is difficult because of limited system resolution, noise, relatively low contrast of the deployed stent, and stent motion during the cardiac cycle. In this work, we extend our previous work by investigating wider range of conditions associated with this task. The present studies consider number of frames and frame rate separately, and include stabilization of the stents as a way to quantify the performance effects of stent motion. We find that (1) stabilization reduces the uncertainty when detecting the gap size; (2) observer performance increases with the number of frames; (3) the effect of display frame rate is highly dependent on the motion of the target.
Teacher Beliefs Shape Learning for all Students

Unless teachers hold high expectations for all students, achievement gaps will continue to occur.
Myxovirus-1 and protein kinase haplotypes and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C virus.

Candidate genes, including myxovirus resistance-1 (Mx1), protein kinase (PKR), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), were evaluated for associations with liver fibrosis in 374 treatment-naive patients with genotype-1 chronic HCV infection [194 Caucasian Americans (CAs) and 180 African Americans (AAs)], using a genetic haplotype approach. Among the 18 haplotypes that occurred with a frequency ≥5% in the cohort overall, the Mx1-(-123C)-(+6886A)-(+19820G(379V))-(+38645T) (abbreviated Mx1-CAGT), and PKR-(+110T)-(+7949G)-(+13846A)-(+22937T)-(+40342T) (abbreviated PKR-TGATT) haplotypes were independently associated with less severe hepatic fibrosis (Ishak ≥ 3 versus <3). These associations persisted after adjustment for potential confounders such as alcohol use, sex, age (which is strongly correlated with the estimated duration of HCV infection [Spearman's correlation coefficient (rs) = 0.6)], and race (for Mx1-CAGT: OR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.16-0.68; P = 0.0027; and for PKR-TGATT: OR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.32-0.98; P = 0.0405). Population structure was evaluated using the structured association method using data from 161 ancestry-informative markers and did not affect our findings. We used an independent cohort of 34 AA and 160 CA in an attempt to validate our findings, although notable differences were found in the characteristics of the two patient groups. Although we observed a similar protective trend for the Mx1-CAGT haplotype in the validation set, the association was not statistically significant. Conclusion: In addition to other factors, polymorphisms in cytokine genes may play a role in the progression of HCV-related fibrosis; however, further studies are needed. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.)
Program variations in preschools for handicapped and nonhandicapped children: Mainstreamed vs. integrated special education

Abstract Educational programs serving handicapped and nonhandicapped preschool children in the same setting have employed a variety of procedures. Our review of the literature indicated that these programs have been labeled inconsistently with few attempts to identify specific variables which discriminate program types. In order to provide an organization to this procedural variation, we proposed that programs containing a high proportion of handicapped children be termed integrated special education and those containing a low proportion of handicapped children be called mainstreamed programs. Differences between mainstreamed and integrated special education programs were highlighted, and issue/problems unique to each program type were discussed.
Two field and greenhouse diseases ofProsopis(mesquite)

Abstract Canker and tip-dieback diseases have been found in field and greenhouse plantings of Prosopis being examined in agroforestry trials in South Texas. Several fungal species were associated with the field cankers, most notably a Lasiodiplodia and a Pestalotiopsis . In the greenhouse, a tip-dieback as well as a canker disease that began at pruning cuts on the stock plants was seen. Pestalotiopsis was most commonly isolated from these plants. Isolated cultures of the Lasiodiplodia and the Pestalotiopsis together with several other often associated fungi, (including Alternaria Fusarium ) were tested for pathogenicity on young mesquite plants. Only Lasiodiplodia and Pestalotiopsis produced cankers under the conditions tested when spores were applied using wound inoculation techniques. Pestalotiopsis required high wound inoculation techniques. Pestalotiopsis required high humidity and proved much less damaging compared to Lasiodiplodia , which closely mimicked the field symptoms. Benlate was found to give the greatest growth inhibition of these fungal pathogens in in vitro fungicide tests.
A Role for Site-Specific Phosphorylation of Mouse Progesterone Receptor at Serine 191 in Vivo

Progesterone receptors (PRs) are phosphorylated on multiple sites, and a variety of roles for phosphorylation have been suggested by cell-based studies. Previous studies using PR-null mice have shown that PR plays an important role in female fertility, regulation of uterine growth, the uterine decidualization response, and proliferation as well as ductal side-branching and alveologenesis in the mammary gland. To study the role of PR phosphorylation in vivo, a mouse was engineered with homozygous replacement of PR with a PR serine-to-alanine mutation at amino acid 191. No overt phenotypes were observed in the mammary glands or uteri of PR S191A treated with progesterone (P4). In contrast, although PR S191A mice were fertile, litters were 19% smaller than wild type and the estrous cycle was lengthened slightly. Moreover, P4-dependent gene regulation in primary mammary epithelial cells (MECs) was altered in a gene-selective manner. MECs derived from wild type and PR S191A mice were grown in a three-dimensional culture. Both formed acinar structures that were morphologically similar, and proliferation was stimulated equally by P4. However, P4 induction of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and calcitonin was selectively reduced in S191A cultures. These differences were confirmed in freshly isolated MECs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that the binding of S191A PR to some of the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand enhancers and a calcitonin enhancer was substantially reduced. Thus, the elimination of a single phosphorylation site is sufficient to modulate PR activity in vivo. PR contains many phosphorylation sites, and the coordinate regulation of multiple sites is a potential mechanism for selective modulation of PR function.
Nutrition, growth, and complementary feeding of the breastfed infant

Although additional research is needed on many of the issues discussed herein, the following conclusions are well substantiated by the evidence available to date: Breast milk alone can meet nutrient needs during the first 6 months, with the possible exception of vitamin D in certain populations and iron in infants of relatively low birth weight. Complementary foods offered before 6 months of age tend to displace breast milk and do not confer any growth advantage over exclusive breastfeeding. Breast milk continues to provide substantial amounts of key nutrients well beyond the first year of life, especially protein, fat, and most vitamins. Breastfed infants tend to gain less weight and usually are leaner than are formula-fed infants in the second half of infancy. This difference does not seem to be the result of nutritional deficits but rather infant self-regulation of energy intake. New growth charts based on infants breastfed throughout the first year of life are being developed by WHO. The nutrients most likely to be limiting in the diets of breastfed infants are minerals, such as iron, zinc, and calcium. Using the following guidelines can help to ensure that the nutrient needs of the breastfed child are met: Continue to breastfeed as often as the infant desires. Aim for a variety of complementary foods, with fruits, vegetables, and animal products (e.g., meat, fish, poultry, or egg) offered daily. Iron-fortified cereals and meats can provide adequate iron. Calcium can be obtained from cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products (although fresh cow's milk is not recommended before 12 mo). Avoid giving too much juice. Be alert to any signs that the child's appetite, growth, or development is impaired. When in doubt, a balanced vitamin-mineral supplement is advisable. Make mealtimes enjoyable.
Quantum calculations of the dispersion of the fundamental limits of nonlinear susceptibilities

Using sum rules and a new dipole-free sum-over-states expression, we introduce a method for calculating the fundamental limits of the dispersion of the real and imaginary parts of all electronic nonlinear-optical susceptibilities. As such, these general results can be used to study any nonlinear optical phenomena at any wavelength, making it possible to push both applications and our understanding of such processes to the limits. These results reveal the ultimate constraints imposed by nature on our ability to control and use light.
Pyrazole functionalized organo‐ceramic hybrids for noble metal separations

A series of pyrazole-functional adsorbents is synthesized by sol-gel processing technology and used to study the extraction characteristics for palladium, platinum, and gold chlorides from leaching solutions. All organosilicon compound, N-(trimethoxysilylpropyl)-pyrazole, is synthesized as the functional precursor for these adsorbents. Hydrothermal treatments for the gelled materials alter pore characteristics without chemical property changes. To study adsorptive extraction of Pd(II), Pt(IV), and Au(III) chlorides, the hydrothermally treated adsorbent is used. The experimental results show that this adsorbent has high Pd(II) uptake capacity (1.41 mmol/g), strong selectivity for Pd(II) chloride over Pt(lV) and Au(III) chlorides, and no reactivity for Cn(II) and Fe(ll) in 2.0 M HCl solutions. The material also has sustainable stability over repeated metal loading and stripping in a short column. In addition to the experimental studies, the adsorption processes in batch and packed column systems are successfully modeled by using a pore diffusion model and presented.
Multi-modal pedestrian detection on the move

This paper presents an on-the-move pedestrian detection system that utilizes multiple sensor modalities to improve detection rates at deployable computational loads. The system was developed for a vehicle moving up to 40 kph that can detect moving pedestrians up to a distance of 50m, with support for both day and night operations. In the day, 3D pointclouds obtained from an 8-layer LIDAR sensor are processed to produce a labeling of the scene distinguishing ground, large structures, and potential pedestrians to produce reliable detections in the short range (up to 30m), while a stereo-based detection and classification system is used for ranges between 30–50m+. We describe the algorithms in detail and show that the combined system allows for reliable detection at faster frame-rates than when using each sensor or component individually. A second method for fusing two IR cameras with the LIDAR sensor is proposed for night operations, where LIDAR is used to produce multi-scale masks that define the search space for a HOG-based pedestrian classifier.
DYNAMIC SOLIDS MIXING BETWEEN COAL AND LIMESTONE IN A GAS-SOLID FLUIDIZED BED

Dynamic characteristics of solids mixing between coal and limestone were studied. Experiments were carried out in a 0.203 m diameter cold fluidized bed with coal and limestone of different sizes as the fluidized particles. Experimental parameters examined included operation time, air flow rate, bed height, initial bed setup, relative particle size and relative amount of the two particles. The coal concentration profile was analyzed through bed sectioning, and a mixing index was used to describe the profile. The observed results were presented graphically and in correlation forms. The steady state results were also compared with those available in the literature.
Adaptive Boolean networks and minority games with time-dependent capacities.

In this paper we consider a network of Boolean agents that compete for a limited resource. The agents play the so called generalized minority game where the capacity level is allowed to vary externally. We study the properties of such a system for different values of the mean connectivity K of the network, and show that the system with $K=2$ shows a high degree of coordination for relatively large variations of the capacity level.
Inguinal pathology and its association with classical bladder exstrophy

Abstract One hundred thirty-four cases of classical bladder exstrophy, managed at our institution, were reviewed. Fifty-six percent of the boys and 15% of the girls developed inguinal hernias over an average follow-up time-span of 10 years. Thirty-one percent of the patients with hernias underwent repair at the time of initial bladder closure. Forty-six percent of the patients who developed a hernia were diagnosed during the first year following their initial procedure. More than 50% of the individuals in the latter category presented with an incarcerated hernia, and required emergent management. Boys managed by staged reconstruction had a statistically significant risk of developing an inguinal hernia ( P
On-shot focal-spot characterization technique using phase retrieval

We present an on-shot focal-spot characterization technique based on a phase-retrieval scheme that retrieves near-field phase from multiplane focal-spot measurements in an experimental target chamber. The technique is easy to implement inside a target chamber and is demonstrated in a multiterawatt laser system. It is also found that phase retrieval can quantitatively detect residual angular dispersion coming from the pulse compressor misalignment.
The transforming proteins of simian virus 40

Abstract Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small DNA tumor virus whose early gene products, large T and small t antigens, efficiently immortalize and transform primary rodent cells, transform rodent cell lines and extend the lifespan of primary human cells. Mutational analysis has revealed that the transforming and lifespan extension properties of large T antigen correlate with binding to and disruption of the normal functions of the human tumor suppressor proteins pRb and p53. Small t antigen contributes to cell proliferation through inactivation of protein phosphatase 2A and subsequent activation of the MAP kinase pathway. By disrupting key cell growth control mechanisms, SV40 transforming proteins provide a valuable system for analysis of cellular growth control mechanisms.
Introduction to Statistics for Biomedical Engineers

Abstract There are many books written about statistics, some brief, some detailed, some humorous, some colorful, and some quite dry. Each of these texts is designed for a specific audience. Too often, texts about statistics have been rather theoretical and intimidating for those not practicing statistical analysis on a routine basis. Thus, many engineers and scientists, who need to use statistics much more frequently than calculus or differential equations, lack sufficient knowledge of the use of statistics. The audience that is addressed in this text is the university-level biomedical engineering student who needs a bare-bones coverage of the most basic statistical analysis frequently used in biomedical engineering practice. The text introduces students to the essential vocabulary and basic concepts of probability and statistics that are required to perform the numerical summary and statistical analysis used in the biomedical field. This text is considered a starting point for important issues to conside...
The effects of hypercapnia and cooling the ventral medullary surface on capsaicin induced respiratory reflexes.

Abstract The effect of right atrial (RA) injection of 3 μg/kg capsaicin on phrenic, hypoglossal and recurrent laryngeal activities was studied in chloralose anesthetized, paralyzed and artificially ventilated cats. Within 2 sec following capsaicin injection, the phrenic and hypoglossal activities completely disappeared (apnea), while the recurrent laryngeal activity markedly increased. Similar responses were also obtained with RA injection of phenyldiguinide (PDG), suggesting that the respiratory responses of both drugs are essentially similar. Sino-aortic denervation did not affect the capsaicin induced respiratory responses. Bilateral vagotomy abolished the responses, suggesting that vagal sensory receptors are responsible for the reflex effects. Hyperoxic hypercapnia (3 and 7% CO2 in O2) reduced the apneic duration of phrenic and hypoglossal nerves. The magnitude of the recurrent laryngeal excitation was decreased during CO2 breathing. Graded focal cooling of the intermediate area (IS area) of the ventral medullary surface (to inhibit central chemoreceptor activity) significantly prolonged capsaicin induced apneic duration of hypoglossal nerves more than the phrenic. The recurrent laryngeal responses, however, were unaffected by cooling of the ventral medullary surface. The results show that capsaicin and PDG, presumably by stimulating C fibers, affect cranial nerves as well as the phrenic. The reflex responses to C fiber stimulation seem to be altered by intervention which stimulate (hypercapnia) or depress (IS cooling) ‘central chemoreceptors’.
Effect of metyrapone (SU-4885) on spontaneous NaCl intake by rats

Abstract Metyrapone (SU-4885) induced a spontaneous appetite for 0.15 M NaCl solution when administered i.p. to rats at a dose of 11.0 mg/kg body weight. Induction of the salt appetite is attributed to an accumulation of desoxycorticosterone resulting from inhibition of the 11β hydroxylation enzymes in the biosynthetic pathway of the adrenal cortex. Although accumulation of Δ 4 -androstene-3, 17-dione would also be expected to occur after inhibition of the 11β hydroxylation enzymes by metyrapone, administration of this steroid at graded doses (35, 70, 150 and 300 μg/kg body weight) failed to elicit a salt appetite in rats. The results support the hypothesis that changes in concentration of mineralocorticoid hormone in the blood affect appetite for NaCl solution. Another steroid intermediate, 17α hydroxydesoxycorticosterone (Reichstein's Compound S) had no significant effect on spontaneous NaCl appetite under the conditions of these experiments.
Towards the purification of liquid water by direct plasma injection: Technical challenges and ongoing efforts at the university of Michigan'S plasma science and technology laboratory

Plasma production or plasma injection in liquid water affords one the opportunity to nonthermally inject advanced oxidation processes into water for the purpose of purification or chemical processing. Such technology could potentially revolutionize the treatment of drinking water as well as current methods of chemical processing where with plasmas, physical catalysts can be eliminated. As such, the field is an active area of research. Limitations of current injection approaches include limited throughput capacity, electrode erosion, and reduced process volume. Ongoing efforts to address these issues by the utilization of an underwater plasma jet are discussed. Findings from preliminary toxicology studies of plasma-treated samples are also reported.
A PVD based barrier technology for the 45nm node

A new PVD source for barrier deposition has been developed which is extendible down to the 45nm node. The source can conformally deposit barrier metal on the sidewalls of vias and trenches. The thickness of the barrier on the via bottom can be minimized for lowest via resistance. Electrical tests on typical back-end-of-line structures show line resistances consistent with measured trench sidewall coverage. Both stress migration and electro-migration performance are superior to previous generation PVD barrier sources.
A Thermal Desorption Spectroscopy Study of Hydrogen Trapping in Polycrystalline Α-uranium

Abstract The kinetics of hydrogen desorption from polycrystalline α-uranium (α-U) was examined using thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS). The goal was to identify the major trap sites for hydrogen and their associated trap energies. In polycrystalline α-U six TDS adsorption peaks were observed at temperatures of 521 K, 556 K, 607 K, 681 K, 793 K and 905 K. In addition, the desorption was determined to be second order based on peak shape. The position of the first three peaks was consistent with desorption from UH 3 . To identify the trap site corresponding to the high temperature peaks the data were compared to a plastically deformed sample and a high purity single crystal sample. The plastically deformed sample allowed the identification of trapping at dislocations while the single crystal sample allow for the identification of high angle boundaries and impurities. With respect to the desorption energy associated with each peak, values between 12.9 and 26.5 kJ/mole were measured.
Low-field and zero-field optical detection of magnetic resonance in a 3Nπ* state: pyrazine

Abstract The zero-field parameters for the lowest n-π * triplet state of pyrazine are determined using optical detection of the magnetic resonance in zero magnetic field. The values thus obtained are D = ± 0.33923 ± 0.00002 cm −1 and E = ∓ 0.00719 ± 0.00002 cm −1 . The hyperfine splittings due to the nitrogen and hydrogen nuclei are discussed.
Potential Usefulness of Similar Images in the Differential Diagnosis of Clustered Microcalcifications on Mammograms

The inclusion of similar images can have beneficial effects for many cases in which the status of a lesion is unclear, and it can improve the performance of radiologists in observer studies.
Equivalence of Yang-Feldman and action-principle quantization in pathological field theories

The quantization of pathological field theories, suffering noncausal propagation properties and the Johnson-Sudarshan effect, is investigated from both the Yang-Feldman and action-principle points of view. For a particularly simple system of this kind, the two quantization approaches are shown to be exactly equivalent. It is argued that the equivalence also holds for theories of interacting spin-$\frac{3}{2}$ fields.
Bits and Pieces: Potential Future Scenarios for Children's Mobile Technology

The reigning portrait of mobile technology for children has, by and large, been founded on a portrait of computing derived from an earlier generation of desktop devices. That is, the recurring image of "mobile computing" employs a full-scale personal computer shrunk down to handheld size as in a PDA or iPhone. While this image suggests avenues for innovation, it nevertheless reflects a highly constrained view of computing that fails to do justice to the educational possibilities of children's informal day-to-day activities. This article seeks to challenge the "PDA-centric" view of children's mobile technology by discussing two major design themes that lead in alternative directions: namely, material computing endowing physical substrates of various kinds with computational capabilities and piecewise computing enhancing mobility through the dissociation of various functional capabilities of traditional computers. In discussing these themes, the authors draw on design projects.
The Wari feathered panels from Corral Redondo, Churunga Valley: a re-examination of context

The much-celebrated Wari feather panels, discovered by local workmen in 1943, were first described in the English-language literature in 1958 as having been found in a cache inside seven or eight large ceramic jars. The alleged provenience, that the panels had been found in a cache, has been repeated in numerous publications ever since. Recent access to articles written by three Peruvian authors about the find published in 1943, 1950, and 1990—the latter being based on interviews with local people who either participated in or were present during the find—reveals, however, that mummy bundles were also found at the site. This article presents details found in the Peruvian accounts not previously mentioned in the English-language literature and suggests the Wari vessels and panels may have been offerings accompanying an important deceased individual or a human sacrifice.
Mechanical stretch activates nuclear factor-kappaB, activator protein-1, and mitogen-activated protein kinases in lung parenchyma: implications in asthma

We investigated the effects of mechanical stretch and induced stimulation of lung parenchyma on the activation of proinflammatory transcription factors in normal mice and in a mouse model of asthma. Mechanical stretching of lung parenchyma led to increased activation of NF-kappaB and AP-1 transcription factors. Incubation of lung parenchyma with methacholine increased the activation of NF-kappaB, which was further augmented by stretch. Activation of NF-kappaB in response to mechanical stretch was associated with the phosphorylation and degradation of IkappaBalpha and the activation of IkappaB kinase. Stretch-induced activation of NF-kappaB involves activation of stretch-activated (SA) channels and the production of free radicals. Mechanical stretch and/or treatment with methacholine resulted in an increased activation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAP kinase, and the inhibition of the activity of these kinases partially blocked the stretch-induced NF-kappaB and AP-1 activation. A greater level of NF-kappaB and ERK1/2 activity was observed in the asthmatic mice, which was further increased by mechanical stretching. The level of cyclooxygenase-2, an NF-kappaB-regulated enzyme, was also higher in lung parenchyma from asthmatic mice than in normal mice. Our data suggest that mechanical stretching of lung parenchyma activates NF-kappaB and AP-1, at least in part, through the activation of MAP kinase signaling pathways.
Stress during acquisition and T-maze choice behavior in extinction.

One outgrowth of research on frustrative nonreward was the discovery of so-called "regressive" behaviors under conditions of nomeward. In a study of the generalization of resistance to extinction, Ross (1964) reported that rats trained to run, climb, or jump under partial reinforcement characteristically performed these behaviors d u i n g extinction of a subsequently learned running response. Bruning, Schmedc, and Silver (1970) reported regression in T-maze performance. They noted that nuns to the arm which no longer contained reinforcement increased in frequency when partial reinforcement (frustration) was inuoduced in a goal box preceding the choice point. Since laboratory studies of regression provide a useful analog, and potentially, a parsimonious explanation of the clinically oriented concept of regression, the present study sought to provide further information on the antecedents of the laboratory variety of regression. Also, it was felt that a demonstrated relationship between regression and prior learning under stress stemming from conditions other than frusrrative nonreward would enhance the generality of the regression effect and contribute to an understanding of the relations between stress and frustration (e.g., Brown & Wagner, 1964). The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationships between choice behavior acquired under externally stressing circumstances (shock) and later performance under frustrating conditions (extinction). To distinguish more adequately between maintenance of the reference behavior and regression to that behavior during extinction, primacy or recency of stressed acquisition was also varied.
Xenopus laevis egg jelly coats consist of small diffusible proteins bound to a complex system of structurally stable networks composed of high-molecular-weight glycoconjugates

Abstract The extracellular matrix surroundingXenopus laeviseggs includes three morphologically distinct jelly layers designated J1, J2, and J3 from the innermost to outermost. Previously, using the quick-freeze, deep-etch, rotary-shadow technique, we found that each layer has a unique fibrillogranular ultrastructure. In this study, we show that the fibrillar network is composed of high-molecular-weight glycoconjugates, while the globular material consists of low-molecular-weight proteins some of which are released into the aqueous medium. Analysis by SDS–PAGE and differential staining of individually dissected jelly layers shows that both J1 and J2 contain three high-molecular-weight, acidic, Alcian blue-staining components (450, 630, and 900 kDa), while J3 contains two high-molecular-weight components that stain with PAS but not with Alcian blue. Each jelly layer also contains low-molecular-weight proteins from 75 to 250 kDa that do not stain with PAS or Alcian blue. Chromatography of whole egg jelly on a Sephacryl 500 column resulted in isolation of the major Alcian blue staining band (630 kDa) which eluted first, and two PAS staining bands which eluted second. Rotary-shadowing demonstrated that these high-molecular-weight glycoconjugates are long and branched, suggesting that they are major constituents of the jelly fiber network. SDS–PAGE analysis shows that these networks are stable for at least 16 hr after eggs are oviposited. In contrast, the low-molecular-weight globular proteins which constitute 30% of the total jelly protein are steadily released into the surrounding medium.
Silver nanoparticle inhibition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons degradation by Mycobacterium species RJGII-135.

UNLABELLED Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a common environmental contaminant originating from both anthropogenic and natural sources. Mycobacterium species are highly adapted to utilizing a variety of PAH. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are an emerging contaminant that possess bactericidal properties, interferes with the bacterial membrane and alters function. Mycobacterium sp. strain RJGII-135 provided a model bacterium to assess changes in carbon metabolism by focusing on PAH degradation, which is dependent upon passive uptake of hydrophobic molecules into the cell membrane. A mixture of 18 PAH served as a complex mixture of carbon sources for assessing carbon metabolism. At environmentally relevant PAH concentrations, RJGII-135 degraded two-, three-, and four-ring PAH within 72 h, but preferentially attacked phenanthrene and fluorene. Total cell growth and PAH degradation were successively reduced when exposed to 0·05-0·5 mg 1(-1) AgNP. However, 0·05 mg l(-1) AgNP inhibited degradation of naphthalene, acenaphthylene and acenaphthalene. RJGII-135 retained the ability to degrade the methylated naphthalenes regardless of AgNP concentration suggesting that proteins involved in dihydrodiol formation were inhibited. The reduced PAH metabolism of RJGII-135 when exposed to sublethal concentrations of AgNP provides evidence that nanoparticle pollution could alter carbon cycling in soils, sediment and aquatic environments. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) pollution threatens bacterial-mediated processes due to their antibacterial properties. With the widespread commercial use of AgNP, continued environmental release is inevitable and we are just beginning to understand the potential environmental ramifications of nanoparticle pollution. This study examined AgNP inhibition of carbon metabolism through the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon degradation by Mycobacterium species RJGII-135. Sublethal doses altered PAH metabolism, which is dependent upon cell membrane properties and intracellular proteins. The changed carbon metabolism when exposed to sublethal doses of AgNP suggests broad impacts of this pollution on bacterial carbon cycling in diverse environments.
Optomechanical light storage in a silica microresonator

Coherent interconversion between an optical and a mechanical excitation in an optomechanical resonator can be used for the storage of an optical pulse as an excitation in a mechanical oscillator. This optomechanical light storage is enabled by external writing and readout pulses at one mechanical frequency below the optical resonance. In this paper, we expand an earlier experimental study [Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 133601 (2011)] on storing an optical pulse as a radial breathing mode in a silica microsphere. We show that the heterodyne beating between a readout pulse and the corresponding retrieved pulse features a periodic oscillation with a well-defined phase and with the beating period given by the mechanical frequency, demonstrating directly the coherent nature of the light storage process. The coherent interconversion accelerates with increasing optomechanical coupling rates, providing an effective mechanism for tailoring the temporal profile of the retrieved pulse. Experimental studies on both light storage and optomechanically induced transparency under nearly the same conditions also illustrate the connections between these two closely related processes.
Distance Learning and the Visually Impaired: A Success Story

This article describes a U.S. Department of Education grant funded project to develop and deliver a distance master's degree program in blindness and visual impairment to students in the 14 states of the Western Governor's Region. A small proportion of the students in the program are, themselves, blind or visually impaired. The article shares challenges, insights, and practitioner perspectives from the technological, design, and subject matter experts.
Toxicological Implications of Nasal Formulations

Various nasal formulations have been tested for their suitability to deliver drugs through the nasal cavity. This route is especially of interest where the dose of drug is small and the drug may un...
The throughput of a buffered crossbar switch

The throughput of an input-queued crossbar switch-with a single FIFO queue at each input-is limited to 2-/spl radic/2/spl ap/58.6% for uniformly distributed, Bernoulli i.i.d. arrivals of fixed length packets. In this letter we prove that if the crossbar switch can buffer one packet at each crosspoint, then the throughput increases to 100% asymptotically as N/spl rarr//spl infin/, where N is the number of switch ports.
Perceptions of Teacher Characteristics and Student Judgments of Teacher Effectiveness

This study examined the relationship between perceived teacher attractiveness, expertness, and trustworthiness and student judgment of teacher effectiveness. Three teachers who taught both an introductory and an advanced psychology course participated in the study. Students completed the Counselor Rating Form-Short version (CRF-S) and rated the teacher on effectiveness. Results indicated that each of the subscales of the CRF- S was positively related to perceived teacher effectiveness. The results also suggested that it may be useful to conceptualize teaching us u social influence process. Factors extensively researched by social and counseling psychologists may be important in understanding the classroom situation.
A 1V current-mode CMOS active pixel sensor

A low-voltage current-mode active pixel sensor (APS) capable of operating from a 1 V power supply in a 0.35 /spl mu/m standard CMOS process is proposed. The pixel utilizes a PMOS transistor biased in the linear region of operation to produce an output current linearly proportional to the integrated voltage. The 10/spl times/10 /spl mu/m/sup 2/ fabricated pixel has a 32% fill factor and an adjustable conversion gain of 6.3 pA/e~. This paper presents an analysis and simulations of the image sensor.
Resource Utilization of Pediatric Patients Exposed to Venom

Background And Objective: Treating envenomation with antivenom is costly. Many patients being treated with antivenom are in observation status, a billing designation for patients considered to need care that is less resource-intensive, and less expensive, than inpatient care. Observation status is also associated with lower hospital reimbursements and higher patient cost-sharing. The goal of this study was to examine resource utilization for treatment of envenomation under observation and inpatient status, and to compare patients in observation status receiving antivenom with all other patients in observation status. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with a primary diagnosis of toxic effect of venom seen during 2009 at 33 freestanding children’s hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System. Data on age, length of stay, adjusted costs (ratio cost to charges), ICU flags, and antivenom utilization were collected. Comparisons were conducted according to admission status (emergency department only, observation status, and inpatient status), and between patients in observation status receiving antivenom and patients in observation status with other diagnoses. Results: A total of 2755 patients had a primary diagnosis of toxic effect of venom. Of the 335 hospitalized, either under observation (n = 124) or inpatient (n = 211) status, 107 (31.9%) received antivenom. Of those hospitalized patients receiving antivenom, 24 (22.4%) were designated as observation status. Costs were substantially higher for patients who received antivenom and were driven by pharmacy costs (mean cost: $17 665 for observation status, $20 503 for inpatient status). Mean costs for the 47 162 patients in observation status with other diagnoses were $3001 compared with $17 665 for observation-status patients who received antivenom. Conclusions: Treatment of envenomation with antivenom represents a high-cost outlier within observation-status hospitalizations. Observation status can have financial consequences for hospitals and patients.
The Gap between the Real and the Ideal: The Right to Education Amid Fiscal Equity Legislation in a Democratic Culture.

Lack of understanding about the relationship between federal and state educational institutions brings confusion into discussions of democracy, equity and equality in schools. The ‘right to education’ continues to be espoused by American society as a birthright, yet it does not figure in federal documentation. This matter has repeatedly come to the attention of legislative courts, who have insisted that the question of education as a fundamental right be addressed. Numerous court cases have attempted to bring closure on this issue, on the basis of such abstractions as national rights, equal access, opportunity and economic disparity among the petitions. However, legal judgments remain inconclusive, reiterating that education remains a state legislative issue. This paper explores the implications of a fundamental right to education through an examination of federal and state legal litigation, discussing the philosophical and ideological roots of discussion of rights and democratic values, and evaluating ho...
Virtual environments, data fusion, and video in support of remote health management systems

Complex systems can be challenging to operate, maintain, and repair. The US Navy is interested in developing data fusion techniques that include video to both assist the shippsilas crew in monitoring machinery and also to allow the crew to get ship-to-shore assistance, usually called distance support, for repairs. This paper reports on a work-in-progress integrating sensor data, streaming and stored video data and processed video data with virtual technologies and 3D modeling to create a data fusion technology. First the hardware and software requirements and development will be discussed. Then progress with the human-system integration and data fusion aspects will be discussed. Finally, the paper will conclude with remarks on future work.
Measurement of Ceruloplasmin from Its Oxidase Activity in Serum by Use of o-Dianisidine Dihydrochloride

We have developed a new method for determination of serum ceruloplasmin from its oxidase activity, in which o -dianisidine dihydrochloride is used as substrate. o -Dianisidine dihydrochloride is more stable than is the more widely used p -phenylenediamine substrate, and forms a stable product that is measured at 540 nm. Correlation was good between results of this method and those obtained with both a p -phenylenediamine substrate method ( r = 0.98) and a radial immunodiffusion procedure ( r = 0.97). There is little or no interference from reducing or colored components of serum. The coefficient of variation (day-to-day) for the method was 4.2%. A normal range of 62-140 U/ liter has been determined by the reported method.
Borderline Personality Disorder From the Patient's Perspective

Objectives: Patients with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder were studied to learn how they experienced the disorder and its treatment. Methods: Life history narratives were obtained from ten patients with borderline personality disorder in a series of 90-minute interviews held over the course of a year. The interviews had minimal structure; patients were simply asked to talk about themselves. Results: The narratives revealed striking similarities in the patients' experience with borderline personality disorder. Reports of their experience differed markedly from clinical descriptions of the disorder. Common themes of estrangement, inadequacy, and despair were identified, as well as common coping strategies, primarily dissociation and avoidance of self-disclosure. Conclusions: Patients' experiences with borderline personality disorder were highly consistent but differed markedly from clinical descriptions. The patient narratives provided information that could lead to more effective treatment o...
Of Clues and Signs: The Dead Body and Its Evidential Traces

ABSTRACT Taking the conflict over the remains of Ned Kelly as a starting point, in this article I trace the various conceptions of the, body as evidence within the intertwined histories of anthropology, criminology, and medicine to explore how anthropological practice brings the dead into being through exhumation and analysis. I outline the popular rhetorical tropes within which evidentiary claims are situated, exploring how the agency of people after death is understood within the framework of present-day forensic anthropological practice and how this is underwritten by a particular heritage of anatomical analysis. [Keywords: archaeology, forensic anthropology, materiality, semiotics of the body]