cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low-Latency Data Acquisition Hardware for Real-Time Wireless Sensor Applications

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are an attractive alternative to traditional tethered systems for monitoring and feedback control of civil structures. In civil engineering, research has focused on the application of WSN to structural health monitoring (SHM); as a result, hardware has been tailored to SHM applications. However, the real-time performance requirements of WSNs for control are more stringent than for monitoring applications. Wireless communication, processing time, and data-acquisition hardware are a few of the many sources of time-delay in wireless control systems; this paper will focus on the latency due to the acquisition and actuation hardware in the control loop, i.e., the time between capturing a measurement and its availability on the processor. Previous work on smart sensor hardware focuses either on resolution for SHM applications or the actuation interface for control applications. Overall, an analysis of latency due to the data-acquisition hardware and an understanding of the inherent limitations have been lacking. This paper illustrates the limitations of a common analog-to-digital converter (ADC) architecture for SHM applications and presents a low-latency hardware solution for wireless control nodes. The performance of the two different data-acquisition techniques emphasizes the implication of ADC architecture on the latency and resolution of the data. Ultimately, through the use of an successive-approximation-register-type ADC and careful design of the corresponding driver, the latency due to the hardware is almost negligible.
Determination of the Apparent Dissociation Constants of Phosphoric Acid in SEAWATER1

A method was developed for determining the apparent dissociation constants of a tribasic acid in complex concentrated ionic solutions using potentiometric pH measurements and acid-base titrations. The apparent dissociation constants of phosphoric acid were determined in artificial seawater over the ranges of temperature and salinity normally encountered in the ocean. These apparent dissociation constants were also measured in 0.68 m NaCl, which has the same ionic strength as seawater of 33‰ salinity. It was estimated that 99.6% of the PO43− species and 44% of the HPO42− species are complexed by cations in seawater other than Na+. The values of the apparent dissociation constants reveal that in seawater of 33‰ salinity at 20C at pH 8.0, 87% of the inorganic phosphate exists as HPO42−, 12% as PO43−, and 1% as H2PO4− .
Aspects of the developmental morphology of california encephalitis virus in cultured vertebrate and arthropod cells and in mouse brain

Abstract An electron microscopic study was made of the replication of California encephalitis (La Crosse strain) in cultured vertebrate cells (Vero, African green monkey kidney), in a line of cultured mosquito cells (Aedes albopictus), and in brain tissue of suckling mice. Morphologically similar virus particles, approximately 95 nm in diameter, were encountered in all three systems, and a common mode of virus assembly and maturation appeared to obtain. Virus assembly was shown to occur exclusively at internal cytomembrane interfaces, the Golgi complex appearing as the initial assembly site, which site became less focal as infection progressed due to the proliferation of Golgi smooth membranes and the dilation of cisternae and vesicles. The assembly process involved viral budding into cisternal and vesicular lumina, the virion thereby acquiring its limiting membrane. The envelope of such intracellular virions exhibited a poorly defined fringe, approximately 8 nm in width, which appeared to undergo a maturational change as the virions were discharged from the cell, such that, extracellularly, virions displayed a well-developed fringe, approximately 12 nm wide—a change especially noteworthy in the case of virions in infected mouse brain. The presence was noted in infected Vero cells—and in one instance in an infected mosquito cell—of crescent-shaped segments of thickened cisternal membrane, which possibly represented an early phase of viral assembly in which nucleocapsid aligned itself in close apposition to a membrane segment preparatory to the initiation of budding. In areas of the cytoplasm adjacent to sites of viral assembly in neurons, a fine granulofibrillar matrix was frequently found, enmeshed in which were numbers of 50–60 nm spherical structures. In a low proportion of cells from infected mosquito cultures, dense granulofibrillar masses were found in the cytoplasm. In Vero cells, infection with CE virus was cytolytic, while in A. albopictus cells, no gross cytopathic effects were manifest, and persistently infected cultures developed upon subcultivation. However, less than 10% of challenged mosquito cells became productively infected and for a proportion of these, at least as determined by electron microscopy, the infection was lethal.
The Increasing Pay Gap for Women in the Textile and Clothing Industries, 1910 to 1970: An Alternative Explanation

In a recent article in this Journal Paul McGouldrick and Michael Tannen undertook an interesting study of male and female wages in the clothing and textile industries for the years 1910 and 1970.1 For 1910, their cross-section regression results showed little or no earnings differential between the two groups after controlling for other factors. Their analysis of substantially the same industries in 1970, however, uncovered a very marked earnings differential in favor of men. McGouldrick and Tannen (M-T) suggest several possible explanations for this rather surprising result of an increasing pay gap, among them a decline in women's investment in human capital relative to that of men, changing government and union tax and benefit patterns that have the effect of discriminating against female human capital investment, or even rising market discrimination against women.2 But, as they admit, their explanations are speculative and the precise reason for the gap is unclear. We would suggest, however, that the increasing pay gap that M-T discovered may be merely a statistical illusion. The illusion could have resulted from the following difficulties: 1) Although M-T included a dummy variable in the 1970 equations to indicate whether a worker was employed in the North or the South, there was no attempt to differentiate workers by region in the 1910 equations. 2) Although the data which they used for 1910 pertained only to immigrant workers, their 1970 data set was almost exclusively made up of native-born workers. These two difficulties are potentially serious (although perhaps not equally so). As we will explain below, the absence of a regional variable and the non-homogeneity of the two groups in the two years studied could have led M-T to observe erroneously an increasing pay gap for women in the textile and clothing industries over the period studied.
Basis of norgestomet action as a progestogen in cattle.

Abstract Norgestomet is the progestational component present in Syncro-Mate-B, which is used to synchronize estrus in cattle. In post-partum cows, luteal phases anticipated to be short following first ovulation are of normal length when cows are pretreated with norgestomet. Because Syncro-Mate-B is used experimentally as a progestogen to affect uterine function, these studies were conducted to investigate how norgestomet acts at the level of the uterus. Receptor binding assays and a sensitive estrogen bioassay in tissue culture were used to address the possibility that some effects of norgestomet might be mediated through interaction of this compound with steroid hormone receptors other than the progesterone receptor (rP). The source of receptors was high-speed cytosol, prepared from bovine uterine endometrium, which was obtained from cyclic cows. Results of single-point and complete competition analyses comparing norgestomet and progesterone indicated that norgestomet competed even more effectively than did progesterone for specific binding of [ 3 H]progesterone to rP. Results of similar studies, which compared the abilities of norgestomet and diethylstilbestrol to compete with [ 3 H]estradiol for binding by uterine endometrial estrogen receptors (rE), provided no evidence for norgestomet competitive binding to rE. In MCF-7 breast cancer cell bioassays, norgestomet showed weak estrogenic activity, but only at concentrations greater than 1 micromolar. Finally, norgestomet did not compete with [ 3 H]triamcinolone acetonide when present in a 100-fold excess, and only competed with [ 3 H]dexamethasone for binding by endometrial glucocorticoid receptors (rG) when present in the micromolar range. We conclude that, at the concentrations used in synchronizing estrus, norgestomet interacts with bovine endometrium as a progestogen and that its biological actions occur through binding of this compound to rP present in target tissues.
Effects of attention and arousal on visually evoked cortical potentials and reaction time in man

Abstract The combined effects of general arousal and specific attention on averaged evoked potentials and reaction time were studied. Arousal level was manipulated by the presence or absence of a shock threat when the flashes were being presented. Attention was varied by having S react to flashes appearing in either his right or left visual field while ignoring flashes appearing concomitantly but not simultaneously in the opposite field. Potentials evoked under “high” arousal (threat of shock) were greater than those obtained under “low” arousal. Also, reaction times were shorter. The potentials evoked by flashes receiving attention were much greater than those evoked by flashes being ignored. The results indicate that cortical evoked potentials are related to both general arousal and specific attention. The combined effects of increasing or decreasing arousal and shifts in attention toward or away from the evoking stimulus determine whether the net change in evoked potential amplitude will be positive or negative.
Quality of life and mental health in cervical and endometrial cancer survivors.

Abstract Objectives. The goal of this study was to examine quality of life and mood in long-term survivors of cervical and endometrial cancer. Relationships of quality of life and mood with demographic and disease factors were also investigated. Methods. One-hundred fifty-two survivors of cervical or endometrial cancer diagnosed and treated 5–20 years ago at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics participated. Eighty-nine healthy controls were recruited from a hospital gynecology clinic. Quality of life, mood, and demographics were assessed by questionnaires. Disease characteristics of cancer survivors were abstracted from medical records. Results. There were no significant differences in quality of life or depressive symptoms between the three groups. Cervical cancer survivors reported significantly more anxiety than endometrial cancer survivors, and more dysphoria, anger, and confusion than either endometrial cancer survivors or healthy controls. Greater depression and mood disturbance were reported by unemployed and unmarried cancer survivors. Treatment modality, stage of disease, and length of time since diagnosis were not related to quality of life or mood. Conclusions. Quality of life in cervical and endometrial cancer survivors approximates that of healthy controls by 5 years post-diagnosis. However, cervical cancer survivors report more negative mood than survivors of endometrial cancer or healthy controls. Cancer survivors who are unemployed or living alone may be especially at risk for mood and mental health difficulties.
Diffusion in Transient Space-Charge-Limited Currents

The recent analysis by Batra, Schechtman, and Seki neglects charge-carrier diffusion in transient space-charge-limited currents (SCLC) in photoconductor-dielectric structures. It is pointed out that such an analysis cannot predict the initial diffusion-dominated current observed by high-resolution experimental measurements. Recent work which develops the necessary mathematical theory for determining transient SCLC with diffusion is cited.
Top-Down Analysis of Forest Structure and Biogeochemistry across Hawaiian Landscapes

Technical and analytical improvements in aircraft-based remote sensing allow synoptic measurements of structural and chemical properties of vegetation across whole landscapes. We used the Carnegie Airborne Observatory, which includes waveform light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and high-fidelity imaging spectroscopy, to evaluate the landscapes surrounding four well-studied sites on a substrate age gradient across the Hawaiian Islands. The airborne measurements yielded variations in ground topography, canopy height, and canopy nitrogen (N) concentration more accurately than they could have been obtained by any reasonable intensity of ground-based sampling. We detected spatial variation in ecosystem properties associated with the properties of different species, including differences in canopy N concentrations associated with the native species Metrosideros polymorpha and Acacia koa, and differences brought about by invasions of the biological N fixer Morella faya. Structural and chemical differences associated with exotic tree plantations and with dominance of forest patches by the native mat-forming fern Dicranopteris linearis also could be analyzed straightforwardly. This approach provides a powerful tool for ecologists seeking to expand from plot-based measurements to landscape-level analyses.
Lumbar puncture ordering and results in the pediatric population: a promising data source for surveillance systems.

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is incorporating laboratory data into realtime surveillance systems. When normal patterns of laboratory test orders and results are modeled, aberrations can be detected. Because many test orders are available electronically well before results, atypical patterns of test ordering may signal outbreaks. Objectives: The authors sought to characterize baseline patterns in the ordering and early results of lumbar punctures, motivated by the possibility of using these data for real-time surveillance for early detection of meningitis or encephalitis outbreaks. Methods: Retrospective cohorts of pediatric emergency department patients at a single hospital (1993– 2003) and from the National Hospital and Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (1992–2000) were used for analysis. Results: Test ordering exhibits seasonal patterns, with monthly peaks in January and August (p < 0.0001). For the hospital cohort, the rate of cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis exhibits seasonal patterns (p < 0.0001), with a peak from August to October. This is strongly associated with the rate and pattern of clinical neurologic disease (p < 0.0001). A long-term secular decline in daily test ordering is evident, dropping from 5.3 to 2.9 in the hospital sample, and from 371.8 to 185.3 in the national sample (p < 0.001). The longterm rate of pleocytosis has declined (p < 0.0001), though the yield of testing for pleocytosis has improved (p = 0.0104).
Observation of metastable field-cooled magnetization in Y doped Bi (2212) superconductors

Abstract We report a metastable field-cooled magnetization ( M fc ) in Y doped Bi(2212) superconductors ( T c1 =86 K) containing an intergranular phase with T c2 =68 K. As the sample was field-cooled through 68 K, M fc has contribution from two moments of opposite sign: a negative one arising from the intragranular phase and a positive one arising from the intergranular phase, the latter being cooling rate dependent. At faster cooling rates, the positive moment dominates and M fc >0 for H M rem ) and the difference of M fc and zero-field-cooled magnetization ( M zfc ) in the system.
Further characterization of A population of defective, interfering pseudorabies virions.

Abstract Defective, interfering particles of pseudorabies virus isolated after repeated (49) passages in rabbit kidney cells have been further characterized. The defective particles sediment at a slower rate in sucrose gradients than do standard virions. This difference in sedimentation rates is not due to a difference in the molecular weights of the DNA present in defective and standard virions; both types of particles contain DNA with a molecular weight of approximately 90 × 10 6 . The content of DNA relative to protein is also the same for both types of particles (10–11 μg of DNA/100 μg of protein). Populations of purified defective and standard virions are homogeneous with respect to their content of DNA and protein. The defective particles become more highly labeled with glucosamine than do standard particles and the degree of glycosylation of some of the glycoproteins of defective particles differs from that of standard particles. The changed sedimentation behavior of defective virion populations may reside in the greater degree of glycosylation of some of their glycoproteins. It has proved impossible to separate by sedimentation the infectious virus present in the population of defective virions from the defective virions. The altered sedimentation behavior seems to be acquired by both infectious and defective particles produced by cells coinfected with defective and infectious virus.
Metabolism-based brain-targeting system for a thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue.

Gln-Leu-Pro-Gly, a progenitor sequence for the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) analogue [Leu2]TRH (pGlu-Leu-Pro-NH2), was covalently and bioreversibly modified on its N- and C-termini (by a 1,4-dihydrotrigonellyl and a cholesteryl group, respectively) to create lipoidal brain-targeting systems for the TRH analogue. The mechanism of targeting and the recovery of the parent peptide at the target site involve several enzymatic steps, including the oxidation of the 1,4-dihydropyridine moiety. Due to the lipid insolublity of the peptide pyridinium conjugate obtained after this reaction, one of the rudimentary steps of brain targeting (i.e., trapping in the central nervous system) can be accomplished. Our design also included spacer amino acid(s) inserted between the N-terminal residue of the progenitor sequence and the dihydrotrigonellyl group to facilitate the posttargeting removal of the attached modification. The release of the TRH analogue in the brain is orchestrated by a sequential metabolism utilizi...
Pinacyanol as A Supra-Vital Mitochondrial Stain for Blood

Pinacyanol1 is an excellent, almost permanent and very selective stain for mitochondria in supra-vital blood preparations. It may be used alone or in combination with neutral red for the study of fresh blood, bone marrow, spleen or lymph node smears. One drop of a 0.1% solution of pinacyanol in absolute alcohol, per cubic centimeter of the same solvent, is a satisfactory dilution for making stain films for blood with an average concentration of cells.
Pb(P1) resonance at 40 Hz: Effects of high stimulus rate on auditory middle latency responses (MLRs) explored using deconvolution

Abstract Objective In this study, the effects of high stimulus rate on middle latency response (MLR) components P a and P b (P 1 or P50) were studied using high rate clicks in normal hearing awake subjects were investigated. Methods Five jittered click sequences at different mean rates (24.4, 39.1, 58.6, 78.1, 97.7Hz) were presented to 10 subjects. Overlapping MLRs were deconvolved using the frequency domain continuous loop averaging deconvolution (CLAD) [Ozdamar O., Bohorquez, J., Signal to noise ratio and frequency analysis of continuous loop averaging deconvolution (CLAD) of overlapping evoked potentials. J. Acoust. Soc. Am., 119:429–438, 2006]. In addition conventional auditory transient MLRs at 4.88Hz were obtained using conventional averaging. Results P a amplitude, latency and waveshape remained fairly constant up to 78.1Hz. P b component, however, showed a variable waveshape with latencies covering a wide range (50–70ms) and N b –P b amplitudes increasing at 39.1 and 58.6Hz and decreasing at other rates. Conclusions Recordings show that both P a and P b MLR components can be consistently recorded at all rates up to 100Hz. P b amplitude shows an increase at around 40Hz showing a resonance at that frequency. Significance The dramatic increase of the P b component at around 40Hz may account for the high amplitude of the 40Hz ASSR.
Jacobi and the birth of Lie's theory of groups

It is a well known fact, documented in Lie’s correspondence with Adolph Mayer, that it was during the winter of 1873–74 that Lie began to systematically develop what became his theory of continuous transformation groups. Until recently, Lie’s decision to devote himself to this enterprise had struck me as rather mysterious. He had begun his career as a geometer and under the influence of Felix Klein had come to appreciate the potential importance that a theory of continuous transformation groups could have in applications to geometry and to the theory of differential equations.1 By 1871, however, very little of that potential had been realized. In [Klein, Lie 1870] Klein and Lie had called attention to a class of curves and surfaces defined by one and two parameter continuous groups of commuting projective transformations. These W-curves and W-surfaces (as they named them) included examples previously studied by other geometers. Klein and Lie suggested that the entire class was of special geometrical interest because of their invariance with respect to the group that generated them, but they apparently did not impress other geometers with their novel ideas, most of which were only sketched. They only published the details regarding W-curves in the plane [Klein, Lie 1871] because, in general, in order to determine the “W-configurations„ in n-dimensional projective space, they first had to classify the groups of commuting projective transformations that defined them, and already for n = 3 the classification problem became so involved that they abandoned their original plans to present a detailed discussion of W-curves and surfaces in space.
Independent Study Strategies:: Reactions to Study Guide Components

Abstarct Reactions were sought from adult students concerning their use of various components included in the study materials provided for them in an independent study programme. The research described in this paper is but exploratory. It fits into an effort to relate actual study strategies used by students to instructional design components, with an aim to eventually informing instructional practices in the design of study materials.
Magnetic-Field-Induced Delocalized to Localized Transformation in GaAs:N

The use of a high magnetic field (57 T) to study the formation and evolution of nitrogen (N) cluster and supercluster states in GaAs:N is demonstrated. A magnetic field is used to lift the conduction band edge and expose resonant N cluster states so that they can be directly experimentally investigated. The reduction of the exciton Bohr radius also results in the fragmentation of N supercluster states, enabling a magnetic field induced delocalized to localized transition. The application of very high magnetic fields thus presents a powerful way to probe percolation phenomena in semiconductors with bound and resonant isoelectronic cluster states.
computer recognition of radiopaque myocardial markers

Radiopaque markers implanted in the heart have been used both clinically and experimentally to examine cardiac function. From the position of the markers, both regional and global function can be determined. A major problem with using radiopaque markers is the excessive time required for data analysis. Each marker in every cine frame must be identified and digitized by the investigator. To circumvent this problem, a computer system was developed to automatically identify the markers. The cine film is projected onto a TV camera from which the video signal is digitized and transferred into a computer. The investigator identifies the markers in the first cine frame and thereafter the computer advances the film and locates the markers. The markers are recognized based on positional information from the previous cine frame and on a video density profile. This system greatly reduced the investigators' time required for data analysis.
The Long Reach Of Alzheimer’s Disease: Patients, Practice, And Policy

The impact of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias reaches well beyond the health care needs of the person with dementia. As dementia inexorably progresses, the patient becomes increasingly dependent on others for basic daily care and routine tasks, a physically safe environment, and protection from exploitation or abuse. Addressing the diverse medical and social care needs of the burgeoning US population with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias requires the adoption of a broad-based policy framework and agenda that explicitly acknowledge the complex and unique needs of people with dementia and the impacts of dementia on caregivers and society at large. Public policies related to social service providers, agencies that provide appropriate housing, financial and legal services, and law enforcement must complement other policies focused on prevention and risk reduction, effective treatment development, and efficient health care delivery.
Sex Differences in Pain and Psychological Functioning in Persons With Limb Loss

Abstract Sex differences in pain are frequently reported in the literature. However, less is known about possible sex differences in the experience of pain secondary to a disability. The current study explored these issues in persons with limb loss (n = 335, 72% men) who were recruited as part of a postal survey. Participants provided ratings of phantom limb pain (PLP), residual limb pain (RLP), and general pain intensity. Participants also completed measures of pain-related interference, catastrophizing, coping, and beliefs. Results indicated that a greater proportion of males than females (86% vs 77%, respectively) reported the presence of PLP; however, this difference was no longer prominent when cause of limb loss was controlled. No sex differences were found in the presence of RLP, or in average intensity ratings of PLP or RLP. In contrast, females reported greater overall average pain intensity and interference than males. Females also endorsed significantly greater catastrophizing, use of certain pain-coping strategies, and beliefs related to several aspects of pain. This study did not find prominent sex differences in pain specific to limb loss. However, several sex differences in the overall biopsychosocial experience of pain did emerge that are consistent with the broader literature. Perspective The current study contributes to the literature on sex differences in the experience of pain. Although males and females with limb loss did not significantly differ in their disability-specific pain, sex differences in their broader experience of pain were significant and are worthy of future clinical and empirical attention.
Application of the indo molecular orbital method to ortho effects in mass spectra. Cleavage of cis‐β‐methoxystyrene

The principal fragmentation of the cis-β-methoxystyrene molecular ion is loss of the methyl group. Although this compound has a π system similar to that of phenyl acetate, the substituent effect of a strongly electronegative ortho substituent is insignificant for this fragmentation; but for the same substitution in phenyl acetate, it had been shown to be important. The INDO method was used to show that bond orders confirm the lack of the substituent effect in the cis-β-methoxystyrene system.
Terrestrial coverage considerations for digital audio broadcasting systems

Terrestrial delivery of DAB (digital audio broadcasting) is receiving an increasing amount of attention at the FCC and international forums, with scenarios being considered ranging from a supplement to existing AM and FM broadcasts to complete replacement of the current services. Practical implementation of a terrestrial DAB service requires a system-wide examination of relevant technical factors including receiver technology, propagation characteristics, and reliability of service. Some of the considerations necessary for designing an allocation and allotment system are identified. Planning factors required for predicting coverage are examined. Example calculations of coverage under certain assumptions are presented and tradeoffs are identified. It is noted that further spectrum planning work is warranted. >
Discrepancy in fetal sex assignment between cell free fetal DNA and ultrasound.

Noninvasive prenatal testing utilizing free fetal DNA is commonly used in pregnancy to screen for trisomy 13, 18, 21 and also fetal sex aneuploidy. We report on two cases of discrepancy between phenotypic and genotypic sex and potential medical implications. In our first case, a patient with known male gender via cell free fetal DNA (cffDNA) testing had an ultrasound at 18 weeks’ gestation, which identified Dandy–Walker malformation and female-appearing ambiguous genitalia. As Dandy–Walker malformation could not be considered isolated in the presence of ambiguous genitalia, this finding allowed for more complete counseling of the parents as well as extensive genetic workup. Our second case involved a fetus with intrauterine growth restriction diagnosed by ultrasound and normal-appearing female genitalia. After birth, adrenal insufficiency was diagnosed and chromosome analysis identified normal male chromosomes. These two cases showed that fetal sex determination by cffDNA can be used as a tool for earlier identification of affected pregnancies, allowing for parental decision-making, genetic testing and earlier intervention.
Zinc and Cadmium Can Promote Rapid Nuclear Translocation of Metal Response Element-binding Transcription Factor-1

Abstract Metal response element-binding transcription factor-1 (MTF-1) is a six-zinc finger protein that plays an essential role in activating metallothionein expression in response to the heavy metals zinc and cadmium. Low affinity interactions between zinc and specific zinc fingers in MTF-1 reversibly regulate its binding to the metal response elements in the mouse metallothionein-I promoter. This study examined the subcellular distribution and DNA binding activity of MTF-1 in cells treated with zinc or cadmium. Immunoblot analysis of cytosolic and nuclear extracts demonstrated that in untreated cells, about 83% of MTF-1 is found in the cytosolic extracts and is not activated to bind to DNA. In sharp contrast, within 30 min of zinc treatment (100 μm), MTF-1 is detected only in nuclear extracts and is activated to bind to DNA. The activation to bind to DNA and nuclear translocation of MTF-1 occurs in the absence of increased MTF-1 content in the cell. Furthermore, immunocytochemical localization and immunoblotting assays demonstrated that zinc induces the nuclear translocation of MTF-1-FLAG, expressed from the cytomegalovirus promoter in transiently transfected dko7 (MTF-1 double knockout) cells. Immunoblot analysis of cytosolic and nuclear extracts from cadmium-treated cells demonstrated that concentrations of cadmium (10 μm) that actively induce metallothionein gene expression cause only a small increase in the amount of nuclear MTF-1. In contrast, an overtly toxic concentration of cadmium (50 μm) rapidly induced the complete nuclear translocation and activation of DNA binding activity of MTF-1. These studies are consistent with the hypothesis that MTF-1 serves as a zinc sensor that responds to changes in cytosolic free zinc concentrations. In addition, these data suggest that cadmium activation of metallothionein gene expression may be accompanied by only small changes in nuclear MTF-1.
A comparison of organizational, structural, and relationship effects on subordinates' upward influence choices

This research examined the extent to which organizational membership, centralization of authority and subordinates' perceptions of supervisory relationship quality affected how frequently they report using different types of tactics in their upward influence attempts. Participants from five different organizations were surveyed. A typology of upward influence tactics was created based on the extent to which: (1) the means employed to attempt influence are open or closed, and (2) the desired outcomes are openly expressed or left undisclosed. The resulting dependent variable consisted of three types of tactics: open upward influence, strategic upward influence, and political upward influence. MANOVA results indicated that while organizational membership, centralization of authority and leader‐member exchange all significantly affect upward influence tactic choices, organizational membership explains more variance than do the other two independent variables.
Two-factor reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotent stem cells reveals partial functional redundancy of Sox2 and Klf4

Ectopic expression of defined sets of transcription factors in somatic cells enables them to adopt the qualities of pluripotency. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) are the classic target cell used to elucidate the core principles of nuclear reprogramming. However, their phenotypic and functional heterogeneity represents a major hurdle for mechanistic studies aimed at defining the molecular nature of cellular plasticity. We show that reducing the complexity of MEFs by flow cytometry allows the isolation of discrete cell subpopulations that can be efficiently reprogrammed to pluripotency with fewer genes. Using these FACS-sorted cells, we performed a systematic side-by-side analysis of the reprogramming efficiency with different two- and three-factor combinations of Oct4, Sox2 and Klf4. We show that introduction of exogenous Oct4 with either Sox2 or Klf4 does not directly convert MEFs to a pluripotent state. Instead, each combination of factors disrupts the normal cellular homeostasis and establishes transient states characterized by the concurrent expression of mixed lineage markers. These cells convert into induced pluripotent stem cells in a stochastic fashion. Our data suggest that there is a partial functional redundancy between Sox2 and Klf4 in the disruption of cellular homeostasis and activation of regulatory networks that define pluripotency.
Magnetic resonance safety update 2002: implants and devices.

The preservation of a safe magnetic resonance (MR) environment requires constant vigilance by MR healthcare professionals, particularly with regard to the management of patients with metallic biomedical implants or devices. The variety and complexity of implants and devices constantly changes, requiring continuous attention and diligence with regard to obtaining the most current and accurate information about these objects relative to the MR environment. This review article discusses MR safety and MR compatibility issues and presents important information for a variety of implants and devices, with an emphasis on those objects that have recently undergone evaluation or that require additional consideration because of existing controversy or confusion.
An Algorithm to Identify Robust Convective Weather Avoidance Polygons in En Route Airspace

†‡ The paper describes an algorithm for constructing convective weather avoidance polygons. The algorithm combines weather avoidance fields (WAF) from the en route convective weather avoidance model (CWAM) with edges automatically detected in the echo tops field, clustering, convex hull fitting and wind data to build weather avoidance polygons. Results for 2 case days with significantly different weather patterns were classified and studied.
Potentiation of effects of L-dopa on conditioned avoidance behavior by inhibition of extracerebral dopa decarboxylase.

Abstract It has been found that it is possible to completely inhibit extracerebral dopa decarboxylase without inhibiting or only partially inhibiting cerebral decarboxylase by using suitable doses (25–50 mg/kg) of the compound, Ro-4-4602 (N-(dl-seryl)-N-(2,3,4-trihydroxybenzylhydrazine)). Mice were trained to perform a conditioned avoidance response (CAR), and treated with reserpine (2.5 mg/kg), followed by Ro-4-4602 (25 mg/kg) followed by L-dopa (100–400 mg/kg); control animals were treated with identical doses of reserpine and L-dopa but saline instead of Ro-4-4602. L-dopa reversed a reserpine-induced suppression of the CAR, and this reversal was potentiated by Ro-4-4602. In addition, Ro-4-4602 caused blockade of sympathomimetic effects of L-dopa. Catecholamine assay in groups receiving parallel treatment revealed that no dopamine was synthesized in heart from L-dopa in mice pretreated with Ro-4-4602 but that there was a rise in brain levels of dopamine. These results indicate that extracerebral conversion of dopa to dopamine is not essential to the reversal of a reserpine-induced suppression of a conditioned avoidance response.
Monofunctionalization of Dendrimers with Use of Microwave−Assisted 1,3-Dipolar Cycloadditions

Monofunctionalized polyamide-based dendrimers containing either a terminal azide or alkyne moiety have been designed and synthesized via a convergent synthetic approach. The monofunctionalization allows for the single attachment of a functional moiety in quantitative yields by using 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions, thereby opening the possibility for targeted dendrimer functionalization.
Validity of an Arterial System Model: A Quantitative Evaluation

The purpose of this investigation was to validate an arterial system model in a quantitative fashion. The model is based on a finite difference solution to the Navier?Stokes equations and retains certain nonlinear features of the system. Rather than apply standard error measures that test waveform correlation, the validation method used relies on the quantification of differences between the model and animals over a wide range of parametric changes. A series of functions was used to define the difference between the dependent variables of the model and corresponding hemodynamic variables of the animals. These functions were displayed as a family of three-dimensional difference surfaces which related the function value to parametric changes of the independent variables. Experimental data from three dogs were compared with model predictions. Regions of validity for the independent variables were then assessed by examining the difference surfaces.
Fabrication of Micro‐ and Nanoscale Polymer Structures by Soft Lithography and Spin Dewetting

Polymer microfabrication has become an integral part ofmicrodevicedevelopment.Theabilitytofabricatepolymercomponents from inexpensive, physically, and chemicallyversatilematerialshasledtoanumberofimprovedornewfunctionalities and broadened the applications of micro-devices. This has been especially true in the biomedicalﬁeldwherepolymermaterialsprovideimprovedbiologicalinterfaces as compared to standard microdevice materials.Tothis end, itis critical tohave awide range ofsimpleandcost-effective polymer microfabrication techniques toprovide ﬂexibility and versatility in the fabrication ofpolymer microdevices.Several microfabrication techniques have been devel-oped for fabrication of polymer microstructures. Many ofthese are based on soft lithography.
Stochastic Model Based Radar Waveform Design for Weapon Detection

We consider signature exploitation based waveform design for detection of weapons with a single-antenna monostatic radar. In order to account for the target signature variation with orientation and aspect angle, we model the target impulse response as a random process. For a weapon target, we show that the stochastic model based waveform significantly outperforms the commonly used chirp waveform in terms of the signal-to-clutter-and-noise ratio (SCNR) at the output of the receive filter, leading to an enhanced detection performance.
Optical diffraction from lattice images of alloys

Abstract Optical diffraction patterns have been obtained from optimum lattice images of partially ordered Cu 3 Au and spinodally decomposed AuNi alloys. These diffraction results show excellent agreement with the corresponding portions of electron diffraction patterns, indicating that a direct correlation exists between the lattice images and the atomic lattices of the alloys studied. It must be borne in mind that in general the optical diffractogram and the electron diffraction pattern may contain different information because of the contrast transfer in the electron microscope, and this will particularly affect reflections with larger scattering angles usually outside the objective aperture. Compared to conventional 100 kV selected area electron diffraction, the optical diffraction technique makes possible an outstanding improvement in field limitation, where the area contributing diffraction information may be reduced by over three orders of magnitude to 10A dia. A quantitative analysis of the spinodal and ordering transformations by combined lattice imaging and optical diffraction provides experimental detail on an extremely localized scale. The results are in agreement with conventional experimental results and modern theories of phase transformations and illustrate an exciting new approach to gaining information about localized atomic mechanisms of phase transformations in alloys.
Absolute quantification of norovirus capsid protein in food, water, and soil using synthetic peptides with electrospray and MALDI mass spectrometry

Norovirus infections are one of the most prominent public health problems of microbial origin in the U.S. and other industrialized countries. Surveillance is necessary to prevent secondary infection, confirm successful cleanup after outbreaks, and track the causative agent. Quantitative mass spectrometry, based on absolute quantitation with stable-isotope labeled peptides, is a promising tool for norovirus monitoring because of its speed, sensitivity, and robustness in the face of environmental inhibitors. In the current study, we present two new methods for the detection of the norovirus genogroup I capsid protein using electrospray and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. The peptide TLDPIEVPLEDVR was used to quantify norovirus-like particles down to 500 attomoles with electrospray and 100 attomoles with MALDI. With MALDI, we also demonstrate a detection limit of 1 femtomole and a quantitative dynamic range of 5 orders of magnitude in the presence of an environmental matrix effect. Due to the rapid processing time and applicability to a wide range of environmental sample types (bacterial lysate, produce, milk, soil, and groundwater), mass spectrometry-based absolute quantitation has a strong potential for use in public health and environmental sciences.
Estrogenic maintenance of lordotic responsiveness: Requirement for hypothalamic action potentials

Abstract Studies were conducted to determine the requirement for hypothalamic, sodium current-based action potentials in the performance of a stereotypic, estrogen-dependent reflex, the lordosis response. Intrahypothalamic infusion of local anesthetics (50% procaine or 0.5% bupivacaine) into conscious rats had no effect on lordotic responsiveness, and, in a separate group of urethaneanesthetized rats, depressed multiunit electrical activity temporarily. Intrahypothalamic infusion of tetrodotoxin into conscious rats, however, resulted in a dose-dependent, reversible decline in lordotic responsiveness. The first significant drop in lordotic responsiveness occurred 40 min after infusion; the minimum was reached 2–4 h after infusion. Recovery of lordotic responsiveness to preinfusion levels was complete by 12–24 h after infusion. Electrophysiological studies in a separate group of urethane-anesthetized rats revealed that intrahypothalamic tetrodotoxin infusion in most cases suppressed multiunit activity completely usually within 6 min, and this suppression lasted for at least several hours. These data indicate that large, prolonged decreases in electrical activity in the hypothalamus, where estrogenic action is necessary and sufficient to induce lordosis, result in a gradual, reversible decline in lordotic responsiveness. These data are consistent with a ‘tonic’ rather than a ‘mount-by-mount’ role of hypothalamic neurons in lordosis. Furthermore, since lordotic responsiveness declined only when hypothalamic electrical activity had been disrupted severely for at least 40 min, it is postulated that the neuroactive products released by lordosis-relevant, hypothalamic neurons may have a duration of action of at least several minutes.
Neurotrophin-4 regulates the survival of gustatory neurons earlier in development using a different mechanism than brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

The number of neurons in the geniculate ganglion that are available to innervate taste buds is regulated by neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Our goal for the current study was to examine the timing and mechanism of NT-4-mediated regulation of geniculate neuron number during development. We discovered that NT-4 mutant mice lose 33% of their geniculate neuronal cells between E10.5 and E11.5. By E11.5, geniculate axons have just reached the tongue and do not yet innervate their gustatory targets; thus, NT-4 does not function as a target-derived growth factor. At E11.5, no difference was observed in proliferating cells or the rate at which cells exit the cell cycle between NT-4 mutant and wild type ganglia. Instead, there was an increase in TUNEL-labeling, indicating an increase in cell death in Ntf4−/− mice compared with wild types. However, activated caspase-3, which is up-regulated in the absence of BDNF, was not increased. This finding indicates that cell death initiated by NT-4-removal occurs through a different cell death pathway than BDNF-removal. We observed no additional postnatal loss of taste buds or neurons in Ntf4−/− mice. Thus, during early embryonic development, NT-4 produced in the ganglion and along the projection pathway inhibits cell death through an activated caspase-3 independent mechanism. Therefore, compared to BDNF, NT-4 plays distinct roles in gustatory development; differences include timing, source of neurotrophin, and mechanism of action.