cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Partial labyrinthectomy petrous apicectomy approach to the petroclival region: an anatomic and technical study.

Objective The petroclival region generally is thought to be an inaccessible area in the intracranial compartment. A number of ways of reaching this area during surgery have been described, including the presigmoid petrosal approach. The partial labyrinthectomy petrous apicectomy approach is a relatively new approach to this region and is a variant of the presigmoid petrosal approach. This study aims to demonstrate the technique and the microsurgical anatomy of the partial labyrinthectomy petrous apicectomy approach and to provide a quantitative study of its exposure to compare it with other common approaches to this region, particularly the presigmoid petrosal approach. Methods Bilateral stepwise dissections were performed on 15 formalin-fixed and dye-injected cadaveric heads (30 sides) under x3 to x40 magnification. A temporal craniotomy was performed after a complete mastoidectomy. A partial labyrinthectomy and petrous apicectomy were performed next. The amount of dura exposed was measured before and after the partial labyrinthectomy and the petrous apicectomy. By measuring the angles of exposure, the approach was examined to analyze how much increased access was gained. Results This approach provided wide exposure to the petroclival region, the cerebellopontine angle, Meckel's cave, the cavernous sinus, and the prepontine region. On average, there was an increase of 10.8 mm in horizontal exposure as compared with the retrolabyrinthine approach. The average angle of vision achieved with the clival pit as the target was 58.9 degrees. In most of the specimens, an area from the IIIrd to the IXth cranial nerves was easily visible without any significant brain retraction. A high jugular bulb did not reduce the exposure. Conclusion The partial labyrinthectomy petrous apicectomy approach converts two narrow tunnels into a wide corridor. It increases the angle of exposure markedly, providing easy and excellent exposure of the otherwise difficult-to-access petroclival region, and it may also preserve hearing.
The effect of iodination of antifibrinogen antibodies with respect to precipitating and adsorption activities

Abstract Antiserum globulins were prepared from four individual rabbit antisera against porcine fibrinogen and iodinated at varying levels. The iodinated globulins were tested for ability (a) to be precipitated by porcine fibrinogen and (b) to be adsorbed by porcine fibrin. At each iodination level loss of precipitating activity in a given antiserum globulin was comparable to loss of adsorbing activity. From these data it was concluded that the effect of iodination upon the precipitating activity of antibodies is primarily upon binding rather than upon aggregation. Loss of activity, whether precipitating or adsorbing, when plotted against iodination level was found to be biphasic in the case of each antiserum globulin—a precipitous linear decline followed by a considerably more gentle linear decline. At the mid-points of equivalence of the precipitin curves the molar antibody/antigen ratios remained essentially constant for each antiserum as iodination levels increased although they varied from 10 to 15 from one antiserum to the next. At infinite antibody excess the molar antibody/antigen ratios (equated to effective antigenic valence) ranged from 40 to 60 for lightly iodinated antiserum globulins but decreased to effective antigenic valences of only 20 to 30 at higher iodination levels. From these data it was concluded that the binding of antibodies to certain antigenic determinants of fibrinogen is very sensitive to iodination but to other determinants is relatively insensitive.
Trans-10,Cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid reduces triglyceride content while differentially affecting peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ2 and aP2 expression in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

A series of experiments was conducted using 3T3-L1 preadipocytes as the cell model to determine: (i) whether the triglyceride (TG)-lowering effects of a crude mixture of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers were due to a specific isomer of CLA and the timing of treatment, (ii) if CLA reduced TG content by inhibiting a key regulator of adipogenesis, (iii) if CLA incorporated into either neutral lipid or phospholipid cell fractions, and (iv) whether the effects of CLA treatment were reversible. Trans-10,cis-12 CLA reduced TG content, whereas the cis-9,trans-11 isomer increased TG content compared to vehicle [bovine serum albumin (BSA)] controls. Treatment with 50 microM trans-10,cis-12 CLA during the entire 6 d of differentiation reduced TG content to a greater extent than treatment during either the first 3 d or last 3 d of differentiation. Trans-10,cis-12 CLA treatment of preadipocyte cultures for 48 h increased peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma2 (PPARgamma2) protein expression compared to cultures treated with linoleic acid (LA) or the BSA controls. CLA had no effect on adipose P2 (aP2), a fatty acid-binding protein regulated by PPARgamma2. Both the cis-9,trans-11 and the trans-10,cis-12 isomers of CLA were incorporated into neutral lipids and phospholipids. However, cis-9,trans-11 CLA levels were one- to twofold higher than trans-10,cis-12 CLA levels. Moreover, trans-10,cis-12 CLA treatment reduced cis-11 18:1 concentrations in both neutral lipids and phospholipids while increasing cis-9 18:1 and 18:2 concentrations. Palmitoleic acid (16:1) levels were also lower in the neutral lipid fraction of cultures treated with trans-10,cis-12 CLA. Supplementing trans-10,cis-12 CLA-treated cultures (50 microM) with increasing levels of LA resulted in a dose-dependent increase in TG content compared to cultures treated with 50 microM CLA alone. LA supplementation also prevented some of the morphological changes associated with trans-10,cis-12 CLA treatment as seen with scanning electron microscopy. Treatment with 50 microM trans-10,cis-12 CLA for 6 d decreased PPARgamma2 levels, and supplementation of CLA-treated cultures with LA increased PPARgamma2 levels compared with cultures treated with CLA alone. Taken together, these data indicate that in cultures of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes: (i) trans-10,cis-12 CLA is the TG-lowering isomer of CLA, and its effects are dependent on dose, duration of treatment, and the amount of LA in the cultures; (ii) trans-10,cis-12 CLA treatment alters the monounsaturated fatty acid profile of neutral- and phospholipids of the cultures; and (iii) although acute (2-d) trans-10,cis-12 CLA treatment increased PPARgamma2 protein levels, chronic (6-d) treatment decreased PPARgamma2 levels.
Are applicative languages inefficient

Side-effects are forbidden in applicative languages like Prolog [3], FP [2], pure Lisp [9], and SISAL [8]. Algorithms can often be reformulated applicatively with no loss of efficiency. It is not known whether this is always the case. Here are seven problems which have been resistant to efficient reformulation. The reader is invited to produce an efficient applicative program or lower-bound argument for any of these.
Laparoendoscopic single-site radical cystectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: initial experience and 2-year follow-up.

Objective To report the first series of laparoendoscopic single-site surgery for radical cystectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection. The development of laparoendoscopic single-site surgery and its application to urothelial malignancy has not been previously evaluated. Methods A novel, single multichannel port and flexible laparoscopic instruments and laparoscope were used for all procedures. The eligible patients had transitional cell carcinoma that was muscle invasive or refractory to intravesical therapy. Locally advanced disease, previous abdominal or pelvic surgery or radiotherapy, or those desiring orthotopic reconstruction were excluded. No additional ports were needed, and lymphadenectomy was performed using an extended template up to the aortic bifurcation. Results A total of 3 patients (2 men and 1 woman) underwent radical cystectomy with bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection. All the procedures were completed successfully. All patients underwent extracorporeal urinary diversion by way of extension of the umbilical port site. The operative time was 315 ± 40 minutes, and the blood loss was minimal (217 ± 29 mL). The pathologic evaluation revealed negative margins and negative lymph node involvement (mean number of nodes 16 ± 3). All patients were discharged within 1 week (6 ± 1 days) with minimal postoperative pain according to the visual analog pain scale (0-1 of 10). At a minimum of 2 years of follow-up (range 24-26 months), no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease was detected. Conclusions Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery for radical cystectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection is feasible and safe for select patients. Adequate lymph node dissection was possible through a single multichannel port. The long-term oncologic evaluation of these patients awaits; however, the preliminary outcomes have been promising.
Detection of carbon monoxide at ambient levels with an N2O-sensitized electron-capture detector

Abstract It is observed that the response of the electron-capture detector (ECD) for carbon monoxide can be dramatically increased by the addition of N 2 O to the nitrogen carrier gas. In this way a detection limit for carbon monoxide in air of 3.4>d10 11 molecules (16 pg) has been achieved. This detection limit compares favorably with that obtained using other state-of-the-art CO detectors. A mechanism to explain the observed enhancement of the N 2 O-doped ECD is proposed. The implication of the present results for the N 2 O-doping technique and the application of this method to detection of CO in the atmosphere are discussed.
Two adjacent nuclear factor-binding domains activate expression from the human PRNP promoter

Background The transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) comprise a group of fatal degenerative neurological diseases in humans and other mammals. After infection, the cellular prion protein isoform PrPC is converted to the pathological PrPSC scrapie isoform. The continued conversion of PrPC to PrPSC requires de novo endogenous PrP synthesis for disease progression. The human prion protein gene (PRNP) promoter was therefore investigated to identify regulatory elements that could serve as targets for therapeutic intervention.
Does methodology affect the ability to monitor tobacco control activities? implications for HEDIS and other performance measures

Abstract Background It is unclear whether methodological differences in sample size, survey methods, and analysis approach significantly affect the ability to accurately monitor tobacco control activities and to make rate comparisons. Methods Questionnaires were sent to 64,764 members of nine health plans in diverse settings soon after their visit to a primary care clinician. Of these 41,677 completed responses were received. We compared responses received by mail and by telephone follow-up for the percentage of smokers, characteristics of smokers, and their rates of reporting physician cessation counseling. Results Overall, 10.2% were current cigarette smokers, but the proportion was 8.6% for mail responders and 17.2% for phone follow-up responders. Smokers identified by phone follow-up were different from mail responders in most demographic and smoking characteristics and their reports of clinical smoking cessation activities differed for six of nine clinician smoking cessation actions. Calculating advice rates as a proportion of visits produced lower rates with more dispersion among plan rates than doing so without accounting for visit variation. Conclusions Smoking surveys using only mailed questionnaires dramatically undersample smokers, especially in some demographic groups. Comparisons of tobacco counseling among health plans can be improved by ensuring an adequate sample size and response rate and by analyzing by frequency of quit advice.
Simultaneous detection of ions and neutrals produced by matrix‐assisted laser desorption

Ionic and neutral products of matrix-assisted laser desorption were simultaneously detected in a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The neutrals were photoionized with coherent vacuum ultraviolet radiation. Mass spectra were obtained for primary and secondary alkyl amines in various absorbing matrices. Based upon relative signal intensities of directly formed analyte ions and photoionized analyte neutrals, the ratio of neutrals-to-ions ejected was found to be of the order of 10000 or greater with desorption irradiances near the threshold for ion formation. The ratio decreased with increasing irradiance of the desorption laser beam. This dependence is consistent with a collisional mechanism tor analyte-ion formation during the desorption event that is initiated by photoionization of the matrix. Matrices which gave large signal intensities of directly formed analyte ions also gave large signal intensities of photoionized analyte neutrals. Conversely, matrices which gave small signal intensities of directly formed arelyte ions also gave small signal intensities of photoionized analyte neutrals. These results suggest that the efficiency of analyte vaporization by matrix-assisted laser desorption is an intrinsic property of the matrix-analyte pair, independent of the ion-formation process.
Global Assemblage: Singapore, Foreign Universities, and the Construction of a “Global Education Hub”

Summary In the late 1990s and early 2000s, select cities in Pacific Asia formed or significantly deepened formal institutional linkages with a variety of foreign (mainly Western) universities. The objective of this paper is to examine: the policy objectives of Singapore, a Pacific Asian city-state, in opening up its territory to new forms of foreign educational knowledge, institutional structures, practices, and technologies; the specific programs and practices that have enabled the Singaporean state to implement these policy objectives; and the preliminary implications of various “modes of entry” that the foreign universities have adopted for the formation of university–industry linkages in Singapore.
Airborne ground-penetrating radar system to detect surface and subsurface land mines

Research progress on the design, construction, and operation of a novel, airborne ground penetrating radar system to detect surface and subsurface landmines is presented. The landmine detection system is unique in that active, electronic projectiles are shot into the ground from an airborne platform to create high power, monopulse radar signals. Intimate contact between the projectile and the ground reduces the amount of reflected radar energy at the air-soil interface and ensures that maximum radar energy is propagated into the surrounding ground. The end result is that the reflected radar signal is of higher energy and possesses a higher signal-to- noise ratio allowing enhanced detectability. The high power, monopulse signal that is reflected off the landmine is received at the airborne platform via scanned antenna array. In comparison, conventional ground penetrating radar systems typically use chirped or long pulse signals and horn type antennas located close to the ground limiting their usefulness in this application. To generate electrical energy, two types of projectiles are used and are based on the principle of magnetic flux compression or by the principle of piezoelectric compression. The performance results of these two projectile types as well as the models used to predict their behavior are presented and discussed. To evaluate the overall performance of the system, a sub-scale radar test range was also constructed. The radar test range consists of a large dirt- filled tank containing a high power impulse source, several targets that simulate buried landmines, and a post scanned antenna array located above the dirt-filled tank. The high power impulse source simulates the radar signal generated when the projectiles impact the ground. The radar cross-sectional data generated in the test range is presented and discussed.
Degeneration and regeneration of olfactory cells induced by ZnSO4 and other chemicals

The necrotic effect of various salt solutions was tested on the catfish olfactory mucosa. Only zinc cations were able to induce an extensive degeneration of the olfactory cells. Two different modes of irrigation of the mucosa with zinc sulfate were investigated. (1) The olfactory cavity is flushed with the chemical for not more than a few seconds. At concentrations above 30 mM, the resulting damage is very reproducible, largely concentration independent and almost completely specific for the olfactory receptor cells. The non-sensory respiratory cells are unaffected, the sustentacular cells surrounding the receptor cells are affected mainly by a loss of microvilli. The olfactory receptor cells, on the contrary, start to degenerate within a few hours and by day 4 only 20% of the original receptor population remains. Division of the mucosal basal cells increases during days 3 and 4 on and day 6 olfactory receptor cells reach the bare surface of the lamella. After day 7, the receptor population reaches a level of more than 80% of its original value. Because of the absence of sustentacular processes covering the olfactory cell's knobs on day 6, it has been possible to confirm that each of the two types of olfactory receptor cells previously characterized are concentrated on each half of the mucosa (2) The salt is maintained in contact with the tissue for several days. After this treatment most of the lamellae are irreversibly destroyed, some regeneration occurs in limited areas of the mucosa. In these small areas, indifferent respiratory cells reappear first between 20 and 35 days. It is only when the structure of the olfactory tissue is completely reorganized that the new receptor cells reappear between days 45 and 55. Regeneration is not completed before 60-65 days.
Secretary Hoover and the Bituminous Coal Problem, 1921-1928

For seven years, the economic philosophy and political values of Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover challenged the structure, attitudes, and positions of a major, but poorly functioning, industry. This clash of wills and purposes, although colorful in itself, had broader significance in the evolution of government-business relationships in the United States. Professor Hawley argues that it was an important milestone in the conceptual development of “cooperative individualism and competitive co-operation.”
Effects of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on ozone concentrations in Colorado.

This study explores how ozone concentrations in the Denver, CO area might have been different if plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) had replaced light duty gasoline vehicles in summer 2006. A unit commitment and dispatch model was used to estimate the charging patterns of PHEVs and dispatch power plants to meet electricity demand. Emission changes were estimated based on gasoline displacement and the emission characteristics of the power plants providing additional electricity. The Comprehensive Air Quality Model with extensions (CAMx) was used to simulate the effects of these emissions changes on ozone concentrations. Natural gas units provided most of the electricity used for charging PHEVs in the scenarios considered. With 100% PHEV penetration, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions were reduced by 27 tons per day (tpd) from a fleet of 1.7 million vehicles and were increased by 3 tpd from power plants; VOC emissions were reduced by 57 tpd. These emission changes reduced modeled peak 8-h average ozone co...
Zero crossing birefringent filters

Abstract A new type of narrowband and wide field-of-view filters is proposed and analyzed. This filter consists of a birefringent network such as that of Lyot-Ohman or Solc filters using crystals with a zero birefringence crossing. The results arre presented and discussed.
A syntactic approach to time-varying pattern analysis

Abstract A syntactic method for the analysis of time-varying (TV) patterns is presented. The TV phenomena is analyzed using a language translation schema. Stochastic tree grammars are used to describe the patterns at each stage of the TV image sequence and the stochastic translation schema is used to model the evolution process of the TV image sequence. It is shown that the necessary conditions for the existence of a matched filter are preserved under the proposed stochastic translation, and a spatial matched filter Ψs can be designed for the patterns at each stage of the image sequence. In addition, we show that a temporal matched filter Ψt can also be designed for the trajectories formed by the pattern primitives in the image sequence. These filters can iteratively extract the contextual information from the spatial context and the temporal context in a pattern, respectively. They form a trade-off to each other, but they can not be completely replaced by each other. This is demonstrated by an experiment.
INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CALCIUM AND REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES IN PULMONARY ARTERIAL SMOOTH MUSCLE RESPONSES TO HYPOXIA

In contrast to the systemic vasculature, where hypoxia causes vasodilation, pulmonary arteries constrict in response to hypoxia. The mechanisms underlying this unique response have been the subject of investigation for over 50 years, and still remain a topic of great debate. Over the last 20 years, there has emerged a general consensus that both increases in intracellular calcium concentration and changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation play key roles in the pulmonary vascular response to hypoxia. Controversy exists, however, regarding whether ROS increase or decrease during hypoxia, the source of ROS, and the mechanisms by which changes in ROS might impact intracellular calcium, and vice versa. This review will discuss the mechanisms regulating [Ca2+]i and ROS in PASMCs, and the interaction between ROS and Ca2+ signaling during exposure to acute hypoxia.
Microstructure, mechanical properties, and biological response to functionally graded HA coatings

Hydroxyapatite (HA) [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] is the primary mineral content, representing 43% by weight, of bone. Applying a thin layer of HA, to the surface of a metal implant, can promote osseointegration and increase the mechanical stability of the implant. In this study, a biocompatible coating comprising an HA film with functionally graded crystallinity is being deposited on a heated substrate in an Ion Beam Assisted Deposition (IBAD) system. The microstructure of the film was studied using Transmission Electron Microscopy techniques. Finally, initial cell adhesion and cell differentiation on the coating was evaluated using ATCC CRL 1486 human embryonic palatal mesenchymal cell, an osteoblast precursor cell line. The results have shown superior mechanical properties and biological response to the functionally graded HA film.
Dual source computed tomography: a novel technique to determine stone composition.

INTRODUCTION Dual source computed tomography (CT), a novel technology that employs two different x-ray sources, may provide an image resolution that has not been possible with conventional single source CT. We tested the ability of dual source CT imaging to distinguish calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones from calcium phosphate (CaP) stones, and both types of calciferous stones from uric acid (UA) stones. METHODS CaOx, CaP, and UA stones were placed in a tissue phantom and imaged with dual source multidetector CT at both 80kV and 140 kV. Hounsfield units (HU) of each stone were recorded for the 140 kV and the 80 kV datasets by drawing regions of interest by circle, hand-drawing, and using a volume calculation method. The differences between, and the ratios of, the HU obtained by the two energy sources were compared among the stone groups. RESULTS Between CaOx and CaP stones, HU differences (80kV-140kV difference, hand-drawing technique: CaOx = 270.7; CaP = 369.5; UA = 11.45; P = 0.020 for CaOx vs. CaP; P < 0.001 for CaOx and CaP vs. UA) as well as ratios (140kV:80kV ratio, hand-drawing technique: CaOx = 1.44; CaP = 1.51; UA = 1.04; P = 0.001 for CaOx vs. CaP; P < 0.001 for CaOx and CaP vs. UA) were significantly different. There were no significant differences in stone size among the groups. CONCLUSIONS Dual source CT has the ability to distinguish not only between calciferous stones and uric acid stones, but also among stones composed of different calcium salts. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings in a clinical setting.
The neglect of replacement investment in keynesian economics

Abstract This article describes Keynes's early analysis of replacement investment and his subsequent neglect of the subject, especially by his followers. It goes on to explain how this deficiency helped to mislead later economists who attempted to use Keynes as a guide for economic policy and theory and the consequences of the errors of these economists.
Species shout-outs from abdul to zebra: encouraging nonmajors to communicate in the biology classroom.

In this learning activity, a simple verbal prompt was employed as a nonthreatening and engaging discussion starter for non-Biology majors in a biology class at a community college. By calling out the name of their favorite species, then relating new content to this organism, these “Species Shout-Outs” fostered enthusiasm among students by promoting engagement and creating relevance, all of which are important to improving higher education. This activity combined the elements of academic and social interaction, as well as active learning, which have been shown to be necessary to foster student retention through college.
Exploring a Gap Model of Information Services Quality

Due to the growth of end-user computing, information technology IT decentralization and alternative sources of supply, the information systems IS function now serves customers that possess substantial discretion in their use and purchase of IS services. To continue to effectively deliver systems and services that IS customers perceive valuable, IS management must become expert in determining and assessing IS customers' expectations and perceptions. One important source of guidance in such a market-driven environment is to look to the service marketing and operations literature for frameworks that may permit IS to more effectively determine and convey customer value of IS services and IT. This paper outlines IS service quality improvement as a means to cope with this customer-driven IS environment. Specifically, it adapts a widely accepted conceptual "gap" model from the marketing field as a framework for IS service quality management. This model has as its premise that service quality improvement is a continual process of determining and comparing customer expectations and perceptions and, then, modifying products and services based on the results of this assessment. Applications of this model in both research and practice are discussed.
Deterministic Spectral Balancing For High-Fidelity AVO

A common problem for Amplitude Versus Offset (AVO) analysis is that the frequency spectra of near and far-offset data are different; near-offset sections contain more highfrequency energy than far-offset sections do. This variation in frequency content can significantly alter the AVO response, since the interference patterns between adjacent reflection events (for instance the top and bottom of a reservoir layer) will be different on the near and far-offset data. Difference in interference (tuning) can create false AVO anomalies or make valid AVO anomalies disappear. Because of their different frequency spectra, correlating reflection events between near and far-offset sections is sometimes difficult or ambiguous.
Photometric models of disk-integrated observations of the OSIRIS-REx target Asteroid (101955) Bennu

Abstract We used ground-based photometric phase curve data of the OSIRIS-REx target Asteroid (101955) Bennu and low phase angle data from Asteroid (253) Mathilde as a proxy to fit Bennu data with Minnaert, Lommel-Seeliger, (RObotic Lunar Orbiter) ROLO, Hapke, and McEwen photometric models, which capture the global light scattering properties of the surface and subsequently allow us to calculate the geometric albedo, phase integral, spherical Bond albedo, and the average surface normal albedo for Bennu. We find that Bennu has low reflectance and geometric albedo values, such that multiple scattering is expected to be insignificant. Our photometric models relate the reflectance from Bennu’s surface to viewing geometry as functions of the incidence, emission, and phase angles. Radiance Factor functions (RADFs) are used to model the disk-resolved brightness of Bennu. The Minnaert, Lommel-Seeliger, ROLO, and Hapke photometric models work equally well in fitting the best ground-based photometric phase curve data of Bennu. The McEwen model works reasonably well at phase angles from 20° to 70°. Our calculated geometric albedo values of 0.047 - 0.014 + 0.012 , 0.047 - 0.014 + 0.005 , and 0.048 - 0.022 + 0.012 for the Minnaert, the Lommel-Seeliger, and the ROLO models respectively are consistent with the geometric albedo of 0.045 ± 0.015 computed by Emery et al. (Emery, J.P. et al. [2014]. Icarus 234, 17–35) and Hergenrother et al. (Hergenrother, C.W. et al. [2014]. http://arxiv.org/abs/1409.4704 >). Also, our spherical Bond albedo values of 0.016 - 0.004 + 0.005 , 0.015 - 0.001 + 0.003 , and 0.015 - 0.005 + 0.007 for the Minnaert model, Lommel-Seeliger, and ROLO models respectively are consistent with the value of 0.017 ± 0.002 presented by Emery et al. (Emery, J.P. et al. [2014]. Icarus 234, 17–35). On the other hand, the semi-physical models such as the Hapke model, where several assumptions and approximations were necessary, and the McEwen model are not supported by the global disk-integrated data, indicating that disk-resolved measurements will be necessary to constrain these models, as expected.
Quantum efficiency and spatial resolution of microsphere plates stacked with microchannel plates

The principles and a detailed study of the basic operation of a relatively new type of electron multipliers -- microsphere plates (MSPs) has been reported recently. In this paper we extend these studied by presenting measurements of bare MSP quantum efficiency at incoming radiation wavelength range of 250 - 1450 angstrom. MSP efficiency appeared to be by an order of magnitude lower than that of bare microchannel plates (MCPs), having maximum of about 1% at 350 - 900 angstroms. We also extend the previous investigation of angular dependence of MSP gain and detection efficiency to an angular range of 90 plus or minus 40 degrees, when no gain depression was observed, while detection efficiency varied only by approximately 7%. The spatial charge cloud distribution of microsphere plates was measured with the help of a phosphor screen, showing that the dependence is quasi-symmetrical although featuring granular formations caused by the intrinsic structure of the plate. We also present a detailed study of combined MCP/MSP stack operation, suggested earlier by L. B. C. Worth et al. The gain of the stack was measured to be relatively high (108) with pulse height distribution FWHM values as low as approximately 62% and dark noise count rates less than 0.1 counts cm-2s-1, limited by the front MCP. The spatial resolution reached the best value of about 80 micrometers with a 250 micrometer gap between the plates and an accelerating bias in the gap of 50 V. The counting rate capabilities of this hybrid stack are much better (no gain drop was observed at count rates of 3.3 (DOT) 105 counts cm-2s-1) than those of purely MSP detector (103 counts cm-2s-1).© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Immunologic cross-reactions of thermophilic actinomycetes isolated from home environments

Abstract A thermophilic actinomycete was isolated from the furnace humidifier of a patient with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Rabbit antiserum prepared by immunizing the animals with the spore extract of this microorganism showed a high titer of precipitins against the extract but failed to cross-react with antigens of other thermophilic actinomycete species, such as Thermoactinomyces vulgaris or Micropolyspora faeni . However, a number of sera from patients with farmer's lung or bagassosis contained precipitins against the thermophilic actinomycetes isolated from the furnace humidifier. These findings suggest that the thermophilic actinomycetes isolated from home environments may also be found in other surroundings and may belong to some less common or not yet identified species. Because of the lack of cross-reactivity among the individual thermophiles, patients suspected of having hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to inhalation of thermophilic actinomycetes should be tested for precipitins with the use of the microorganism isolated from their own environment.
Low-energy interband absorption in Pd

The optical absorptivity of crystalline Pd was measured at 4.2 K between 0.15 and 4.4 eV. The data were Kramers-Kronig analyzed to determine the dielectric functions and the optical conductivity, $\ensuremath{\sigma}$. A strong maximum was observed in $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ at 0.46 eV followed by a broad shoulder near 1.25 eV. These are interpreted in terms of transitions involving the bands near $L$ in the Brillouin zone.
Impaired specific cell-mediated immunity in experimental biliary obstruction and its reversibility by internal biliary drainage

Little is known of the effect of cholestasis on host immunity. This study evaluates lymphocytic responsiveness to PHA and LPS mitogen and to allogeneic F344 antigen in Sprague-Dawley rats 21 days following bile duct ligation and 31 days following relief of jaundice by internal biliary drainage. Serum bilirubin level was significantly elevated in the bile duct ligated animals at Day 21 (P < 0.001) and thereafter returned to preoperative levels following internal biliary drainage. Results demonstrate depressed responsiveness to PHA (P < 0.001) and allogeneic F344 antigen in vivo (P < 0.04) and in vitro (P < 0.02) in bile duct ligated animals as compared to sham, sham pair-fed, and normal control rats. The observed deficiency in responsiveness to T-cell-dependent mitogen and antigen cannot be explained on the basis of complicating nutritional, renal, or infective factors. Subsequent internal biliary drainage results in some improvement in T-cell responsiveness in the bile duct ligated group although recovery is not complete. B-Lymphocytic response to LPS mitogen is not affected by bile duct ligation. We conclude that cholestasis subsequent to extrahepatic biliary obstruction per se results in impairment of cell-mediated immunity in vivo. This impairment is partly reversible by internal biliary drainage. In vitro B-cell function does not appear to be affected in this model. Further study of impaired cell-mediated immunity in extrahepatic biliary obstruction will improve our understanding of the immunological status of patients with obstructive jaundice and cholestatic liver diseases.
Longitudinal shift in diabetic wound microbiota correlates with prolonged skin defense response

Diabetics frequently suffer from chronic, nonhealing wounds. Although bacterial colonization and/or infection are generally acknowledged to negatively impact wound healing, the precise relationship between the microbial community and impaired wound healing remains unclear. Because the host cutaneous defense response is proposed to play a key role in modulating microbial colonization, we longitudinally examined the diabetic wound microbiome in tandem with host tissue gene expression. By sequencing 16S ribosomal RNA genes, we show that a longitudinal selective shift in wound microbiota coincides with impaired healing in diabetic mice (Leprdb/db; db/db). We demonstrate a parallel shift in longitudinal gene expression that occurs in a cluster of genes related to the immune response. Further, we establish a correlation between relative abundance of Staphylococcus spp. and the expression of cutaneous defense response genes. Our data demonstrate that integrating two types of global datasets lends a better understanding to the dynamics governing host–microbe interactions.
The piclavines, antimicrobial indolizidines from the tunicate Clavelina picta

Abstract Three series of isomeric indolizidines have been isolated and characterized from extracts of the tunicate Clavelina picta . These novel alkaloids, the first representatives of the indolizidines from the marine biosphere, are the principal antimicrobial constituents of the acidian.
Heliospheric Latitude Variations of Properties of Cometary Plasma Tails: A Test of the Ulysses Comet Watch Paradigm

Images of comets de Vico in 1995, Hyakutake in 1996, and Hale–Bopp in 1997 taken by observers in the Ulysses Comet Watch clearly show plasma tail properties reflecting the demarcation of the solar wind into distinct equatorial and polar regions with the boundary determined by the maximum extent of the heliospheric current sheet (HCS). Generally, (1) comet plasma tails in the polar region appear relatively undisturbed (as expected from a steady solar wind), while comet tails in the equatorial region appear disturbed (as expected from a highly varying solar wind); (2) disconnection events (DEs) are observed only in the equatorial region where comets pierce the HCS; (3) the position angle of the plasma tail is consistent with a solar wind speed of 750 km s−1 in the polar region and an average solar wind speed of 450 km s−1 in the equatorial region. While the paradigm seems firm, it was established during a limited range of the solar cycle, and an extension to other ranges is desirable. We test this paradigm using the published record for essentially the entire 20th century. The catalogs of M. J. S. Belton and J. C. Brandt (1966, Astrophys. J. Suppl.13, 125–332)—giving comet tail orientations and descriptive data—and M. B. Niedner (1981, Astrophys. J. Suppl.46, 141–157)—giving DE data—were the principal sources. When combined with the DEs in Comet Halley (J. C. Brandt et al. 1999, Icarus137, 69–83) and the Ulysses-era comets, the data set is extensive. Results for the test are as follows: (1) Images of Comet Mrkos (1957d) clearly show the change of appearance from polar to equatorial regions. We discuss the unusual case of Comet Borrelly (1903c) and present an evaluation of the descriptive notes in the Belton and Brandt catalog. (2) The observed latitude envelope of DEs as a function of solar cycle is consistent with the maximum extent of the HCS. The HCS extends to higher latitudes at solar maximum (cf. J. T. Hoeksema 1991, Adv. Space Res.11, (1)15–(1)24; S. T. Suess 1993, Adv. Space Res.13, (9)31–(9)42) and the observed DEs trace this extension. (3) The orientations of the plasma tail can be used to infer the solar-wind speed. Most of the suitable comets in the Belton and Brandt catalog are in the equatorial region, one is in the polar region, and a few cross the equatorial–polar boundary. In all cases, the orientation is consistent with a high-speed solar wind in the polar region and a lower-speed, variable solar wind in the equatorial region. The data available for comets throughout the 20th century are consistent with the Ulysses Comet Watch paradigm. Thus, detailed studies of plasma tails can be used to map the structure of the heliosphere, specifically the location of the HCS and the location of the boundary between the equatorial and the polar regions. We note that data for comets in the polar region are still relatively rare.
Stabilization of insulin against agitation-induced aggregation by the GMO cubic phase gel

The main objective of the study was to evaluate if the liquid crystalline cubic phase gel of glyceryl monooleate (GMO) protects insulin from agitation induced aggregation. The aggregation of Humulin(R), Regular Iletin I(R) and Regular Iletin II(R), in cubic phase GMO gels at 30 U/g of gel was compared with that in PBS at 100 oscillations/min at 37 degrees C using optical density at 600 nm. The effect of agitation on the secondary structure of insulin in solution and in the gels was determined with circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and the time course of aggregation was also followed by HPLC. A sigmoidal increase in optical density of solution with time indicated formation of increasing amounts of insoluble insulin aggregates. However, in the gels, optical density values stayed at, or around, the initial optical density value, comparable with that of a blank gel suggesting that insulin had not aggregated in the gel. CD spectroscopy of the soluble insulin showed a total loss of native conformation upon aggregation of insulin in solution. In contrast, CD spectra of insulin in the gel were unaltered suggesting protection from aggregation during agitation. Furthermore, agitation of insulin in gels for a duration as long as 2 months at 37 degrees C, had very little adverse effect on the native conformation of insulin, as indicated by the lack of a significant change in its CD spectrum. Therefore, the cubic phase gel was indeed able to protect insulin from agitation-induced aggregation and subsequent precipitation. Although the majority of insulin in solution appeared to have aggregated and precipitated after 8 days by UV and CD spectroscopy, RP-HPLC results indicated the presence of some soluble aggregates of insulin. In summary, the liquid crystalline cubic phase gel of GMO protects peptides, like insulin, from agitation-induced aggregation.
Applications of a distance formula in hyperbolic plane geometry

This note may be used in model-based courses on the classical geometries. Given two points P1(x1, y1) and P2(x2, y2) in the Poincare upper half-plane model of hyperbolic plane geometry with x1≠x2, a Cartesian equation of thebowed geodesic passing through P1 and P2 and an integral expression for the hyperbolic distance between P1 and P2 are developed. These formulas depend only on the coordinates of P1 and P2, and it is easy to implement them with the numerical integrators of modern technology. The distance formula is used to find the coordinates of points of division along a bowed geodesic and, thus, leads to activities discovering that results such as Ceva's Theorem are valid in hyperbolic geometry. The distance formula is also used in verifying that the model satisfies the axioms of absolute geometry.
Biased statistics with zero observations in multiple regression analysis of regional data

Abstract Observations containing zeroes as the values of all variables, and which are not meaningful, are shown to be likely in certain regional data sets which may be subjected to multiple regression analysis. The biasing effects of such observations on regression statistics are shown and illustrated with a small data set. It is recommended that such zero observation be identified and removed from regional data sets prior to analysis.
NSF Workshop on EDA: Past, Present, and Future (Part 2)

The July 2009 National Science Foundation workshop on EDA had two objectives: First, to reflect on EDA's success and to see if EDA practices can influence other fields of computer science and if EDA methodology can be applied to other application domains; and second, to review the progress made under the National Design Initiative and evaluate what new directions and topics should be added to the Initiative. This two-part report, part 1 of which appeared in the March/April issue, contains an overview of EDA, its funding history, a discussion of major challenges, related emerging technologies, and a look at how EDA experience might help in developing these technologies, along with associated educational aspects and challenges. The report also considers EDA's relation with computer science theorists and how this collaboration can be revived. Finally, the report presents three sets of recommendations on how to promote EDA and assist with the serious challenges it faces in the future.
Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases and their role in endocrine cell signaling

The discovery that degradation and inactivation of the second messengers cAMP and cGMP are mediated by a complex enzymatic machinery has changed our perspective on cyclic nucleotide-mediated processes. In the cell, these second messengers are inactivated by no fewer than 11 distinct families of phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Much is known about the structure and function of these enzymes, their complex subcellular distribution and regulation. Yet, their potential as targets for therapeutic intervention in a broad range of endocrine abnormalities still needs to be investigated. This review explores the involvement of PDEs in the regulation of intracellular signaling and focuses on the known and potential roles that are of interest to endocrinologists.
Proposed Acceleratory Effect of TiO2 Nanoparticles on Belite Hydration: Preliminary Results

The effect of chemically inert nanoparticles of anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) on hydration rate of belite (β-C2S) was studied using isothermal calorimetry. The TiO2 was added to β-C2S paste at 0%, 5%, and 10% by mass. The results indicate that the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles shorten the induction period and accelerate hydration beyond 3 days, showing rate peaks at 40 days of age. The cumulative heat data suggests that TiO2-containing C2S pastes increase in degree of hydration at 90 days by 47% compared to neat C2S pastes. These results suggest that addition of inert nanoparticles could potentially promote earlier strength gain of C2S in cement, ameliorating a perceived deficiency in cement compositions which could contribute to sustainability in terms of lower CO2 emissions and lower energy use compared to traditional chemistries.
Signalling pathways and molecular interactions of NOD1 and NOD2

NOD1 and NOD2 are intracellular sensors of microbial components derived from bacterial peptidoglycan. This Review describes the signalling pathways of these NOD proteins and details their role in the maintenance of mucosal homeostasis and the induction of mucosal immunity. The NOD (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain) proteins NOD1 and NOD2 have important roles in innate immunity as sensors of microbial components derived from bacterial peptidoglycan. The importance of these molecules is underscored by the fact that mutations in the gene that encodes NOD2 occur in a subpopulation of patients with Crohn's disease, and NOD1 has also been shown to participate in host defence against infection with Helicobacter pylori. Here, we focus on the molecular interactions between these NOD proteins and other intracellular molecules to elucidate the mechanisms by which NOD1 and NOD2 contribute to the maintenance of mucosal homeostasis and the induction of mucosal inflammation.
Effect of lectins on the hemolytic activity of complement components.

Abstract We have studied the effect of several lectins that have different sugar specifications on the functional activity of purified guinea-pig and human complement components 1 to 9. We tested castor bean type II (specific for galactose and lactose), wheat germ agglutinin (specific for N -aceytl-glucosamine), lotus bean (specific for fucose), soybean and phytohemagglutinin (PHA) (specific for N -aceytl- d -galactosamine). Leucoagglutinin, a purified constituent of PHA with no known suger specificity, was also included. Soy bean, wheat germ agglutinin and PHA, when immobilized, interacted with GP or Hu C1. Only PHA affected the activity of human or guinea-pig fluid phase Cl. Castor bean type II was found to inhibit the hemolytic action of fluid phase or cell-bound Cl and C4 but inhibited C2 only in the fluid phase. Castor bean type II binds to EACH cells with only minimal impairment of the binding and hemolytic functioning of C2; however, the presence of the lectin inhibited the decay of the hemolytically effective EAC142 sites generated. Lotus bean and leucoagglutinin did not affect the activity of any of the complement components under the conditions tested. Our results suggest that specific sugar residues (e.g. glucose, mannose, lactose or galactose) may play a significant role in the functional activity of human and guinea-pig C1, C4 and C2.