cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chapter 6 – Capacitance

This chapter discusses capacitance, which is a measure of the capacity of conducting bodies to store charge. Capacitance is increased if a polarizable material fills the region between the two capacitor plates. This decreases the magnitude of the electric field within the material by a factor called the dielectric constant. The combination of geometry and dielectric constant is responsible for the large capacitance of the Leyden jar and of the recently developed electrolytic capacitors. The potential of a capacitor can be determined by summing up the potential due to all its charges, thought of as point charges. The chapter reviews the two-plate capacitors, parallel-plate capacitors, concentric spherical two-plate capacitor, and concentric cylindrical two-plate capacitor. A major advance in capacitor design was the introduction of electrolytic capacitors, which have a very thin layer of dielectric separating the two plates of the capacitor.
Isolation of High Molecular Weight DNA for Reliable Genotyping of Transgenic Mice

A fast and reliable method for the PCR characterization of DNA from mouse toes is described. The toes biopsied to tag the mice are incubated for 2 h in proteinase K and heated for 15 min at 95°C. T...
Long Noncoding RNA in Hematopoiesis and Immunity

Dynamic gene expression during cellular differentiation is tightly coordinated by transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. An emerging theme is the central role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the regulation of this specificity. Recent advances demonstrate that lncRNAs are expressed in a lineage-specific manner and control the development of several cell types in the hematopoietic system. Moreover, specific lncRNAs are induced to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. lncRNAs can function via RNA-DNA, RNA-RNA, and RNA-protein target interactions. As a result, they affect several stages of gene regulation, including chromatin modification, mRNA biogenesis, and protein signaling. We discuss recent advances, future prospects, and challenges in understanding the roles of lncRNAs in immunity and immune-mediated diseases.
Conducting Polymers as Alignment Layers and Patterned Electrodes for Twisted Nematic Liquid Crystal Displays

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the use of conducting polymers as alignment layers and patterned electrodes for twisted nematic liquid crystal displays. Langmuir–Blodgett films of both the poly(p-phenylene) (PPP), and poly(p-phenylene vinylene) (PPV) precursors have been successfully prepared. The surface-pressure area curves of the two precursor polymers are presented in the chapter and the compressive creep curves of the two precursors are analyzed. It is clear that the PPV precursor at or near the deposition conditions is far less stable at the gas–water interface than the PPP precursor at its deposition conditions. This is attributed to the fact that ideal packing of the single-stranded side chains of the PPV precursor cannot accommodate in the area of the head group. Between 10 °C and 15 °C, PPV precursor is stable to compressive creep for 30 to 60 minutes. A stable deposition can be obtained for both materials, although it is clear from the surface pressure–area curves that the modulus of the PPP precursor monolayer is much higher than that of the PPV precursor. Subsequent treatment indicates that the side chains have only been partially removed by chemical and/or thermal treatments.
Magnetic Reconnection and Magnetic Activity

A large-scale magnetic field extending through a highly conducting tenuous fluid may become distorted on a small scale as a consequence of slow small-scale shuffling of the magnetic lines of force at the boundaries of the tenuous fluid. Any slow wrapping and winding introduced at the boundaries is distributed along the field (at the Alfven speed). It is a curious and little-known fact that such wrapping and winding possesses no static equilibrium (except for a set of solutions of extreme symmetry). The result is neutral-point reconnection of the strains in the field, rapidly dissipating the wrapping and winding. It is suggested that this is the principal cause of the extreme heating that produces the active corona of the sun and other stars. The shuffling of the footpoints of the magnetic field in the photospheric turbulence introduces small-scale wrapping and twisting into the coronal loops. The work done by the turbulence in twisting the fields is dissipated within a matter 10-20 hours by neutral-point reconnection, introducing heat into the corona at a rate of about 10 Mergs/sq cm sec for photospheric turbulence of 0.5 km/sec. It is suggested that this is the basic cause of the X-ray corona.
Explanation in philosophy and the limits of precision

A look at the beginning of philosophy and a consideration of contemporary Anglo-American philosophy show that precision of presentation is a commendable and widely pursued goal. There is a trade-off, however, between precision and richness of presentation. As precision gets sharpened, impoverishment of subject matter advances, often without recognition of the price that is paid for precision. A precise way of illustrating the trade-off in question is to take a precise meteorological model, consider how little it tells us about the weather, enrich the model, and see how precision loses its edge. The works of Heidegger and Rawls are mentioned as exemplars of balance between precision and richness.
Theoretical Study of the Collision-Induced Double Transition CO2 (ν3 = 1) + N2 (ν1 = 1) ← CO2 (ν3 = 0) + N2 (ν1 = 0) at 296 K

Abstract A procedure is presented for the calculation of the double vibrational collision-induced absorption CO2 (ν3 = 1) + N2 (ν1 = 1) ← CO2 (ν3 = 0) + N2 (ν1 = 0) on the basis of quantum lineshapes computed using an isotropic potential and dipole-induced dipole functions. The linestrengths and energies of the vibration–rotation transitions are treated explicitly for N2, utilizing the HITRAN database for CO2. The theoretical absorption profile is compared to recent experimental results. By narrowing the width of the individual lines contributing to the overall absorption profile relative to their values determined for N2–N2 collision-induced absorption, excellent agreement between theory and experiment is obtained.
An orphan glutamate channel points the way to the gates.

How does the binding of agonist lead to a change in ion channel gating? Kohda and colleagues take advantage of the lurcher mutation to provide new insights into how binding of glutamate affects channel gating for AMPA, kainate and NMDA receptors.
Maximum Diameter of Abstract Polytopes

A combinatorial structure called abstract polytope is introduced. It is shown that abstract polytopes are a subclass of pseudo-manifolds and include (combinatorially) simple convex polytopes as a special case.
Surface Material, Temperature, and Soil Effects on the Survival of Selected Foodborne Pathogens in the Presence of Condensate

The effects of surface type (stainless steel, acetal resin, and fiberglass reinforced plastic wall paneling [FRP]), soil, and temperature on the survival of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Yersinia enterocolitica, in the presence of condensate were evaluated. Surface coupons--half soiled with sterile porcine serum--were exposed to cell suspensions made from individual five-strain cocktails composed of organisms from the same genus (10(7) CFU/ml) in Butterfield's phosphate buffer and incubated for 2 h at 25 degrees C allowing attachment of cells to coupon surfaces. Coupons were rinsed to remove unattached cells, incubated at either 4 or 10 degrees C under condensate-forming conditions, and sampled at six time intervals over a 15-day period. For enumeration, cells were removed from the coupons by vigorous shaking in 100 ml of Butterfield's phosphate buffer with 3 g of glass beads and plated on tryptic soy agar with 0.6% yeast extract. Stainless steel did not support the survival of Listeria as well as acetal resin or FRP. Acetal resin and stainless steel were less supportive of Salmonella than FRP. All surfaces supported the survival of Yersinia over the 15-day trial equally. Temperature had little effect on survival of all organisms across all surfaces with one exception. However, Yersinia displayed growth on FRP at 10 degrees C. but death at 4 degrees C. Serum had a protective effect on L. monocytogenes on all surfaces, with populations sustained at significantly (P < or = 0.05) higher numbers over time than unsoiled coupons. Serum didnot effect survival of Salmonella or Yersinia on stainless steel, acetal resin, or FRP.
Phosphorus‐Doped Polycrystalline Silicon via LPCVD II . Surface Interactions of the Silane/Phosphine/Silicon System

Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), low energy electron diffraction (LEED), and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) have been employed to study the interactions of silane and phosphine with the Si(100) surface. Phosphine adsorption and desorption were investigated at surface temperatures in the range . At ambient temperature, phosphine saturated the bare Si(100) surface after 3–5L exposure, and fitting adsorption data to a Langmuir model yields the value for the sticking coefficient. Phosphine adsorption was found to follow the pattern of the underlying silicon. Competitive adsorption experiments set an upper bound of for silane adsorption under like conditions. The silicon surface was observed to be passivated with respect to silane adsorption by prior exposure to phosphine, with a layer of preferentially adsorbed phosphine formed which served to preclude subsequent silane adsorption. The results obtained here are discussed in the context of their bearing upon the phosphorus‐doped low pressure chemical vapor deposition process.
Slow release of the antimetabolite 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) from modified Baerveldt glaucoma drains to prolong drain function

Drainage devices are routinely placed in the eyes of patients with glaucoma to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by providing controlled outflow of fluid (aqueous humor) via a filtering bleb. However, the natural wound healing response often interferes with fluid outflow by thickening the walls of the bleb over time, so that these devices rarely remain functional for more than 5 years. We investigated the use of controlled release of an antimetabolite, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), within glaucoma drains to determine if the wound healing response could be reduced and the useful life span of the device increased. Collagen plugs containing 1.125 mg of 5-FU were placed in the silicone tubes of modified Baerveldt glaucoma drains. Eight drains with 5-FU and eight drains without 5-FU were implanted in one eye each of 16 New Zealand white rabbits; the contralateral eyes served as unoperated controls. Results were evaluated in terms of IOP, fibrous capsule thickness, macrophage density, and presence of type III collagen surrounding the drain plate, 3 and 6 months after implantation. In general, eyes implanted with antimetabolite-containing drains demonstrated significantly lower values for all evaluated parameters at 3 months and lower or equal values at 6 months, compared with the eyes not receiving 5-FU and the unoperated controls, indicating improved IOP-lowering function, reduced bleb wall thickness, and earlier achievement of a steady-state wound healing response. All eyes remained healthy throughout the 6-month duration of the study with no cytotoxicity complications in any of the eyes. Thus, biodegradable plugs placed within the silicone tubes of glaucoma drains can safely deliver 5-FU to filtering blebs over time, which could prolong the functional life of the bleb by decreasing the thickness of the anterior fibrous capsule and permitting sufficient fluid outflow to reduce IOP to physiological levels.
Relationship among 舠emulsion舡 type, detergency and foam

Three test methods have been developed to show the measurably close relationship existing among detergency, foam, and the indication of the type of “emulsion” naturally inclined to form. Visual recognition of the state of the emulsion makes it possible to assess the system as to its comparative detergent capabilities and its foaming proclivities. Guided steps can then be taken for improvements. The methods have been used with success in formulating alkaline cleaning mixtures. The first two methods relate emulsion type with wetting and detergency. They are used to show the effects upon that relationship of such factors as a) concentration of surfactant, b) concentration of added sodium chloride, c) temperature, and d) the nature of the oil. It is pointed out that while the o/w emulsion conditions favor dishwashing metal cleaning and bubble bathing, laundering would be favored by the w/o “system” where optimum conditions are to be found well-removed from the “inversion point.” The third method relates emulsion type with foam in an equally precise manner. The foam is produced by pouring intermittently. The tester for it is described more fully in a separate article (1). The role of foam in detergency is assessed. At the inversion point of the emulsion foam stability, not due to small bubble size, is at its greatest and, for example, so is the ease, speed, and completeness with which oily soils can be removed—a situation explaining hand dishwashing at its best.
An empirical test of the covariation analysis in causal attribution

Abstract The present investigation was designed to reveal the cognitive inference processes associated with both detection and utilization of covariation information in causal attribution. Male undergraduates were (a) informed that a test was easy or difficult and shown a videotape in which (b) the test-taker's performance was high or low, and (c) covariation between the test-taker's effort expenditure and trial-by-trial outcome was present or absent. High performance was attributed to the test-taker's effort and ability, whereas low performance was attributed to the difficulty of the test. However, recognition of the covariance relationship decreased the attribution of high performance to ability and of low performance to test difficulty and increased the attribution of low performance to effort. Effort attribution in the high performance condition was independent of covariation information. The results are discussed in terms of the relationship between covariation information and typical beliefs about the causes of achievement outcomes.
Thermal conductivity of thermal barrier coatings

Abstract In thermal barrier coatings and other ceramic oxides, heat is conducted by lattice waves, and also by a radiative component which becomes significant at high temperatures. The theory of heat conduction by lattice waves is reviewed in the equipartition limit (above room temperature). The conductivity is composed of contributions from a spectrum of waves, determined by the frequency dependent attenuation length. Interaction between lattice waves (intrinsic processes), scattering by atomic scale point defects and scattering by extended imperfections such as grain boundaries, each limit the attenuation length in different parts of the spectrum. Intrinsic processes yield a spectral conductivity which is independent of frequency. Point defects reduce the contribution of the high frequency spectrum, grain boundaries and other extended defects that of the low frequencies. These reductions are usually independent of each other. Estimates will be given for zirconia containing 7wt% Y 2 O 3 , and for yttrium aluminum garnet. They will be compared to measurements. The effects of grain size, cracks and porosity will be discussed both for the lattice and the radiative components. While the lattice component of the thermal conductivity is reduced substantially by decreasing the grain size to nanometers, the radiative component requires pores or other inclusions of micrometer scale.
A case against large cluster-induced nonequilibrium solvent effects in supercritical water

Using a partially compressible continuum solvation model, we have shown that solvent compression in just the first two solvation shells (or thereabouts) is all that is required to gain the bulk of the compression-induced enhancement to the solvation energy of ions in supercritical water. This result is found to hold even when the direct, equilibrium solvent-solute cluster involves well over a hundred solvent molecules. We argue that, for charge variation reactions in supercritical water, the observed short-range behavior of the compression-induced solvation free energy precludes the existence of any anomalously large nonequilibrium solvent effects which might be expected on the basis of the very large size of the equilibrium clusters.
Effects of trans fats on prostacyclin production

AbstractObjectives. Prostacyclin is a prostanoid derived from arachidonic acid that prevents thrombosis and is thereby expected to protect against heart disease, while trans fats present in partially hydrogenated oils interfere with arachidonic acid metabolism. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to investigate how fats with different proportions of linoleic acid and trans-18:1 affect prostacyclin released by cultured endothelial cells, and to compare these proportions with those found in commercially available foods. Design. Soybean oil and hydrogenated soybean oil (coating fat) were mixed in different proportions to yield seven fat mixtures with proportions of linoleic acid ranging from 54.1% to 5.7% and trans-18:1 acid ranging from 0.4% to 43.9%. Human endothelial cells were cultured in each of the mixtures, and their phospholipid fractions were then separated and their fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography. The prostacyclin released by the cells was measured using RIA kits. Mar...
Tutorials on Google Analytics: How to Craft a Web Analytics Report for a Library Web Site

Libraries, along with other information service institutions, have entered a digital era in which resources are presented electronically through various digital platforms. The library Web site functions as the main source of information to patrons as well as a community outreach tool. Many library services now either succeed or fail based on how well users interact with the institution's Web site. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of library services, it thus becomes important for libraries to measure the performance of library Web sites. Web analytics is the ideal tool to answer questions regarding the evaluation of Web site performance. However, Web analytics can be hard to understand for those who do not have the time to familiarize themselves with all the terms and data. Writing a thorough Web analytics report can help make Web analytics easier to digest for administrators or Web site stakeholders.This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions on how to craft a Web analytics report. It provides...
Short-term temporal changes in free recall.

An experimental study of short-term memory for lists of familiar English words is reported. Lists of 10, 20, and 30 unrelated words were presented at a 1-sec. rate. Retention was measured by free r...
Scanning electron microscopy of ticks for systematic studies. 2. Structure of Haller's organ in Ixodes brunneus and Ixodes frontalis.

Hallerʼs organ of females of 2 closely related species, Ixodes brunneus Koch and Ixodes frontalis Panz., were compared by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Applying the 6 characteristics recognized by Homsher & Sonenshine (1975) for SEM analysis, the evidence indicates discontinuous trends in 4 of these characters. Four new characteristics, i.e., capsule aperture area and number, location, and size of the tarsal hump setae, were also used to compare the 2 species. Differences in the capsule aperture and size of the tarsal hump setae provide further support for considering Ixodes brunneus and Ixodes frontalis as distinct species. The potential value of SEM as an aid in the resolution of difficult taxonomic problems in the Acari is discussed.
High-Resolution Infrared Spectroscopy and Analysis of the Methyl Group Stretching (ν1) of CH3NC

Abstract The rotational structure of the symmetric C-H stretching fundamental band ν1 of methyl isocyanide has been revealed for the first time; 540 well-resolved spectral transitions were measured with a resolution of 0.004 cm −1 using an interferometric spectrometer and were assigned to ν 1 lines with K = 0 to 9 and J up to 50. The ν 1 levels are highly perturbed, exhibiting anomalous structure in most of the observed subbands. The origin of the stronger perturbations has been traced mainly to x , y -Coriolis interactions with the degenerate C-H stretch ν 5 and with the combinations ν 2 + 3ν ∓1 8 and ν 4 + ν ∓1 6 + 2ν ±2 8 , to Fermi resonance with 2ν 0 6 , and to a higher-order anharmonic resonance with another combination state, presumably ν 2 + 3ν −3 8 . These interactions have been explicitly taken into account in a least-squares fit of the observed transitions, yielding spectroscopic constants for the ν 1 state. Estimates of the spectroscopic constants for the perturbing states together with their coupling constants with ν1 are also reported.
E. Nesbit's Forty-First Year: Her Life, Times, and Symbolizations of Personality Growth:

Relationships between gender and imaginative themes and styles in literature are clearly demonstrable but complicated. The life, times, and best-known works of fantasy of an Edwardian author of children's literature, Edith Nesbit, are examined to illustrate what Jung described as the individuation process; to show how this process affected her creativity, career, and perhaps her personality development; and to explore the influence of gender and gender-related conflicts in her imaginative expressions.
Multideck structure WDM devices for optical networks

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) and demultiplexing (WDDM) devices are considered to be one of the key elements in optical networks. WDM device by using conventional, such as thin film filter and AWG based devices, can only be used as one device either multiplexing or demultiplexing. Here we propose a novel structure for WDM device, ehic is based on free-space diffraction-grating multiplexer/demultiplexer technology. By using multi-deck fiber arrays one device can function as both multiplexers and demultiplexers simutaneouly. In this paper we will give the structure and working principle for such device. We will also discuss the optical design issues. Finally we will present our experimental results. The devices can be used for bi-directional transmissions and optical transceivers in optical networks.
The Effect of Insulation Coatings on Forward Beta Degradation in Bipolar Transistors

Uncoated, SiO2-coated, and polyimide-coated NPN discrete bipolar transistors were subjected to forward life stressing at temperatures between 100°C and 200°C, and at stress current densities in metal lines between 0.2 and 0.8 × 106 A/cm2. The changes of current gain (beta) in these transistors were monitored as the function of stress time up to 1000 hours. Beta degradation in uncoated transistors started immediately. Later, however, when the mechanical stress generated by electromigration reached the yield point of CrAlCu metallurgy in the emitter area, the beta showed a strong recovery to values about 10% higher than the beta at time zero. This explanation was corroborated by the observation of extrusions in the scanning electron microscope. The overlayer of 2.4 ?m of sputtered SiO2 strongly retarded the beginning of beta degradation but did not prevent it toward the end of life stressing. The overlayer of 2.7 ?m of spun-on polyimide initially had a negligible effect on the beginning of beta degradation. Later, however, when the yield point of metallurgy was achieved, the polyimide seemed to partially block the extrusion of hillocks and prevented the recovery of beta. This was confirmed by SEM photography. The experiment verified the basic premise that the forward beta degradation in bipolar transistors can be described in terms of the mechanical stress generated by electromigration in the emitter region.
Measuring the Workload of Sustained Attention

The utility of a new measure of perceived mental workload in vigilance, The Multiple Resources Questionnaire (MRQ), was evaluated by comparing its sensitivity against that of the standard measure i...
Effects of estrogen on specific protein synthesis in the cockerel liver: an immunocytochemical study on major apoproteins in very low density and high density lipoproteins and albumin.

The effects of estrogen on two major apolipoproteins, apoVLDL-II and apoA-I, and albumin synthesis have been studied morphologically in cockerels using immunocytochemical methods. After the administration of a single dose of diethylstilbesterol (5 mg), the number of apoVLDL-II-containing hepatocytes increased markedly. The reaction product was also detected in the sinusoids. In contrast, the number of apoA-I- and albumin-containing cells did not seem to change significantly after estrogen treatment. The number of albumin-containing hepatocytes was higher than the number of apoVLDL-II- or apoA-I-containing cells in the basal state. After estrogen, apoVLDL-II-containing cells were much more abundant than the other two cell types. The morphological changes induced by estrogen are correlated well with changes in the concentration of the three proteins in plasma after estrogen treatment.
Architectures for single-chip image computing

This paper will focus on the architectures of VLSI programmable processing components for image computing applications. TI, the maker of industry-leading RISC, DSP, and graphics components, has developed an architecture for a new-generation of image processors capable of implementing a plurality of image, graphics, video, and audio computing functions. We will show that the use of a single-chip heterogeneous MIMD parallel architecture best suits this class of processors--those which will dominate the desktop multimedia, document imaging, computer graphics, and visualization systems of this decade.
IL-7-mediated protection of pro and pre-B cells from the adverse effects of corticosterone

Abstract The studies herein demonstrate that Interleukin-7 (IL-7) promotes survival of murine pro- and pre-B cells against stress levels of corticosterone (Cs). In short-term, 16-h, bone marrow cultures IL-7 abrogated Cs-induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in pro-B cells by decreasing apoptosis 60% and completely restoring the cell cycle. IL-7 also reduced Cs-induced apoptosis by 36% in pre-B cells and 24% in IgM + B cells, but did not restore deficits in the cell cycle. Among pro- and pre- B cells, substantial protection against high, pharmacological, levels of Cs was also provided by IL-7. Interestingly, stem cell factor, while reducing spontaneous apoptosis in pro-B cells, did not protect against Cs-induced death, either alone or with IL-7. In conclusion, IL-7 has potential immunotherapeutic value since it provides substantial protection to pro- and pre-B cells against the adverse effects of Cs.
Charting the landscape of supercritical string theory

Special solutions of string theory in supercritical dimensions can interpolate in time between theories with different numbers of spacetime dimensions and different amounts of world sheet supersymmetry. These solutions connect supercritical string theories to the more familiar string duality web in ten dimensions and provide a precise link between supersymmetric and purely bosonic string theories. Dimension quenching and c duality appear to be natural concepts in string theory, giving rise to large networks of interconnected theories.
Grandfather Involvement and Aging Men’s Mental Health:

The mental health of aging men is an understudied social issue. Although it is widely accepted that meaningful family relationships are associated with fewer depressive symptoms and greater positive affect, scholars have largely overlooked relationships between grandfathers and grandchildren as being beneficial to men's mental health. This study investigates the differences in the depressive symptoms and positive affect of 351 grandfathers. Using a cluster analytic technique, participants were categorized as involved, passive, and disengaged based on their frequency of contact, level of commitment, and participation in activities with grandchildren. Comparative analyses indicate that involved grandfathers had fewer depressive symptoms than disengaged grandfathers. Involved grandfathers had significantly higher scores on positive affect than disengaged grandfathers, and passive grandfathers had significantly higher scores on positive affect than disengaged grandfathers. This study provides evidence that grandfather-grandchild relationships influence aging men's mental health. Implications for practitioners working with aging men are discussed.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus and exercise impairment

Limitations in physical fitness, a consistent finding in individuals with both type I and type 2 diabetes mellitus, correlate strongly with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. These limitations may significantly contribute to the persistent excess cardiovascular mortality affecting this group. Exercise impairments in VO2 peak and VO2 kinetics manifest early on in diabetes, even with good glycemic control and in the absence of clinically apparent complications. Subclinical cardiac dysfunction is often present but does not fully explain the observed defect in exercise capacity in persons with diabetes. In part, the cardiac limitations are secondary to decreased perfusion with exercise challenge. This is a reversible defect. Similarly, in the skeletal muscle, impairments in nutritive blood flow correlate with slowed (or inefficient) exercise kinetics and decreased exercise capacity. Several correlations highlight the likelihood of endothelial-specific impairments as mediators of exercise dysfunction in diabetes, including insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, decreased myocardial perfusion, slowed tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation, and impairment in mitochondrial function. Both exercise training and therapies targeted at improving insulin sensitivity and endothelial function improve physical fitness in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Optimization of exercise functions in people with diabetes has implications for diabetes prevention and reductions in mortality risk. Understanding the molecular details of endothelial dysfunction in diabetes may provide specific therapeutic targets for the remediation of this defect. Rat models to test this hypothesis are under study.
Nuclear-Magnetic-Resonance Studies of Mn 55 in Ordered Ni 3 Mn

Nuclear-magnetic-resonance studies of ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{55}$ as well as bulk magnetization measurements have been carried out on ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}$Mn samples having various degrees of order. The results are interpreted in terms of long-range-ordering theory and neighbor contributions to the hyperfine fields. A theoretical expression for the magnetization as a function of order is given, which is valid for values of the long-range-order parameter $S$ in the range 0.6-1.0. An NMR line at -370 kG is identified with ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{55}$ in a well-ordered environment. Other lines are attributed to incompletely ordered sites. Consideration of the difference between the resonance of the well-ordered Mn and that of dilute Mn in Ni leads to values for next-nearest-neighbor as well as nearest-neighbor effects on the hyperfine field. The effect of temperature on the spectra is attributed, in part, to average exchange interactions being different for different environments.
Sex steroid modulation of neurokinin B gene expression in the arcuate nucleus of adult male rats.

Human menopause is associated with hypertrophy and increased gene expression of neurokinin (NKB) neurons in the infundibular (arcuate) nucleus of the hypothalamus. We have hypothesized that these changes are secondary to gonadal failure. In the present study, we determined that orchidectomy resulted in an increase in the mean profile area and the number of neurons expressing NKB mRNA in the rat arcuate nucleus. No changes were seen when orchidectomy was combined with testosterone or estradiol replacement. These findings support our hypothesis and demonstrate that gonadal steroids modulate NKB neurons in the arcuate nucleus of adult male rats.
Solid-State Structural Investigation of an Organolithium (-)-Sparteine Complex: η3 -N-Boc-N-(p-methoxyphenyl)-3-phenylallyllithium⋅(-)-Sparteine.

A η3 monomeric alkyllithium⋅(-)-sparteine complex has been isolated and characterized in the solid state (see picture). Determination of the absolute configuration of this key intermediate in asymmetric metalation/substitution sequences of N-tert-butoxycarbonyl-N-(p-methoxyphenyl)cinnamylamine allows definitive assignment of the stereochemical course of its electrophile-dependent substitution reactions.
A Molecular View of Cellulase-Catalyzed Hydrolysis of Cellulose: A Single Molecule Approach

The efficient conversion of biomass to biofuels such as ethanol would meet a large portion of energy requirements in the near future. A crucial step in this process is the enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose to glucose that is then converted into fuel by fermentation. The hydrolysis is complex - it entails the cooperative (synergistic) action of multiple enzymes known collectively as cellulases: endoglucanase, exoglucanase and beta-glucosidase on both insoluble and soluble substrates. In contrast to homogeneous solution-phase catalysis, the overall efficiency of this heterogeneous catalysis process depends on factors in addition to the catalytic rates of the cellulases, including: cellulase absorption, desorption and diffusion rates on the insoluble cellulose substrate, endoglucanase-catalyzed conversion of cellulose from its crystalline to amorphous forms, and the processivity of exoglucanase-catalyzed hydrolysis of individual cellulose strands. To date, due in large part to limitations of the analysis methods used for its study, this heterogeneous reaction is poorly understood. Here we use single-molecule imaging to directly elucidate molecular-level details of cellulase activity that cannot be readily inferred from ensemble averages reported by conventional, bulk analyses.In our research, the activities of exo- and endoglucanases on cellulose microfibrils are investigated at the single-molecule level. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM) is used to monitor the activity of individual fluorescently-labeled cellulases interacting with insoluble cellulose substrates. Using wide field imaging, we are able to simultaneously record the motion of multiple, individual cellulases with nanometer spatial resolution. Time-resolved localization microscopy provides insights on: (i) binding and diffusion of enzyme to ‘active’ sites on cellulose; (ii) lifetime of enzyme activity for hydrolysis; (iii) enzyme processivity; and (iv) the nature of synergy between cellulase enzymes.
Modeling motor connectivity using TMS/PET and structural equation modeling.

Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to positron emission tomographic (PET) images acquired during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the primary motor cortex (M1 hand ). TMS was applied across a range of intensities, and responses both at the stimulation site and remotely connected brain regions covaried with stimulus intensity. Regions of interest (ROIs) were identified through an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis of TMS studies. That these ROIs represented the network engaged by motor planning and execution was confirmed by an ALE meta-analysis of finger movement studies. Rather than postulate connections in the form of ana priori model (confirmatory approach), effective connectivity models were developed using a model-generating strategy based on improving tentatively specified models. This strategy exploited the experimentally imposed causal relations: (1) that response variations were caused by stimulation variations, (2) that stimulation was unidirectionally applied to the M1 hand region, and (3) that remote effects must be caused, either directly or indirectly, by the M1 hand excitation. The path model thus derived exhibited an exceptional level of goodness (! 2 =22.150,df=38, P=0.981, TLI=1.0). The regions and connections derived were in good agreement with the known anatomy of the human and primate motor system. The model-generating SEM strategy thus proved highly effective and successfully identified a complex set of causal relationships
Scrambling for contact: The determinants of inter-NGO cooperation in non-Western countries

When do non-governmental organizations (NGOs) cooperate with each other? Even with much touting of the positive effects of inter-NGO cooperation on humanitarian outcomes, the extant literature offers us few insights into the determinants of this cooperation, especially in a cross-national framework. Drawing on both the current NGO literature and the larger cross-disciplinary literature on inter-organizational cooperation, I argue that both trust and opportunity are needed for inter-NGO cooperation. Trust in other organizations is highly dependent on governance structures within the state. Similarly, in the uncertain situation of humanitarian disasters and development work in non-Western states, security concerns and a lack of a coordinating leadership body can limit the opportunities of NGOs to collaborate. The presence of humanitarian state interveners can act to mitigate these concerns and provide NGOs with more opportunities to collaborate. Using a novel measure of NGO to NGO cooperation in non-Western countries, empirical results of this project largely support the hypotheses derived from this trust and opportunity framework.
SOME NEW VIEWS OF OLD CONTACT LENS PROBLEMS

A brief review of some recent research developments relating to contact lens practice is given, including comments on: How polymethylmethacrylate hydrates; Lens weight as a design factor; and the use of apertures to control lens mobility.
Oral Tolerization with Cardiac Myosin Peptide (614–629) Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Myocarditis: Role of Stat 6 Genes in BALB/CJ Mice

Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) is mediated by myocardial infiltration by myosin-specific T cells secreting inflammatory cytokines. To clarify the role of cytokines in EAM, we compared STAT 6-deficient (−/−) with STAT 4−/− and wild-type (BALB/CJ) mice following immunization with cardiac myosin peptide (614–629). Wild-type mice developed severe disease with a small increase in severity in STAT 6−/− mice, while STAT 4−/− mice were resistant to EAM. STAT 6−/− mice had increased splenocyte proliferation and INF-γ production versus wild type, while STAT 4−/− mice had decreased proliferation and INF-γ. Following oral administration of myosin (614–629), tolerization was induced in wild-type mice evidenced by amelioration of myocarditis and up-regulation of IL-4. Adoptive transfer of splenocytes from orally tolerized mice resulted in inhibition of disease in STAT 6−/− mice. These results demonstrate that oral tolerization ameliorates EAM in BALB/CJ mice and indicate a down-regulatory role for STAT 6 genes.
Forkhead Transcription Factors Are Critical Effectors of Cell Death and Cell Cycle Arrest Downstream of PTEN

PTEN acts as a tumor suppressor, at least in part, by antagonizing phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling. Here we show that Forkhead transcription factors FKHRL1 and FKHR, substrates of the Akt kinase, are aberrantly localized to the cytoplasm and cannot activate transcription in PTEN-deficient cells. Restoration of PTEN function restores FKHR to the nucleus and restores transcriptional activation. Expression of a constitutively active form of FKHR that cannot be phosphorylated by Akt produces the same effect as reconstitution of PTEN on PTEN-deficient tumor cells. Specifically, activated FKHR induces apoptosis in cells that undergo PTEN-mediated cell death and induces G(1) arrest in cells that undergo PTEN-mediated cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, both PTEN and constitutively active FKHR induce p27(KIP1) protein but not p21. These data suggest that Forkhead transcription factors are critical effectors of PTEN-mediated tumor suppression.
Mechanism and modeling of nitrogen chemistry in combustion

Our current understanding of the mechanisms and rate parameters for the gas-phase reactions of nitrogen compounds that are applicable to combustion-generated air pollution is discussed and illustrated by comparison of results from detailed kinetics calculations with experimental data. In particular, the mechanisms and rate parameters for thermal and prompt NO formation, for fuel nitrogen conversion, for the Thermal De-NOx and RAPRENOx processes, and for NO2 and N2O formation and removal processes are considered. Sensitivity and rate-of-production analyses are applied in the calculations to determine which elementary reactions are of greatest importance in the nitrogen conversion process. Available information on the rate parameters for these important elementary reactions has been surveyed, and recommendations for the rate coefficients for these reactions are provided. The principal areas of uncertainty in nitrogen reaction mechanisms and rate parameters are outlined.
An update on oligodendroglial neoplasms.

Purpose of review The most widely accepted brain tumor classificiation system remains morphology-based but the increasing knowledge of the molecular pathogenesis of oligodendroglial tumors has spurred translational research yielding new diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms. These data have accumulated rapidly and, in combination with exciting new insights in the cellular origin of these tumors, necessitate a review. Recent findings ‘Cancer stem cells’ have been identified in gliomas. Further study of these cells will not only provide information on the cellular origin and pathogenesis of these tumors but may also give rise to new treatments that target a cell pool not amenable to current therapeutic strategies. Molecular tumor characteristics have been correlated with imaging findings, treatment response and prognosis. This has enabled neuro-oncologists to take a risk-stratified approach to patients with oligodendrogliomas that optimizes treatment efficacy and minimizes toxicity. Furthermore, more accurate epidemiological data have become available from population-based studies. Summary In spite of remarkable progress over the last 15 years, these tumors remain incurable. The search for a cure has to go on, while currently available multidisciplinary treatments are refined.
Measurement Model for Linking Individual Learning to Processes and Knowledge: Application to Mathematical Reasoning

Contemporary instructional theories increasingly emphasize the importance of linking an individual's learning to changes in cognitive processes and knowledge structures. In this article, an extension of the multidimensional Rasch model for learning and change (MRMLC) is presented so as to permit theories of processes and knowledge structures to be incorporated into the item response model. Like the MRMLC, this extension (MRMLC+) resolves some basic problems in measuring individual change and permits adaptive testing so that precise estimates of learning may be obtained. Additionally, MRMLC+ permits individual learning to be linked to substantive changes in processing and knowledge. An application to a study on the impact of short-term instruction on mathematical problem solving shows the potential of MRMLC + for interpretations. In this study, a theoretically plausible model of knowledge structures (Mayer, Larkin, & Kadane, 1984) provides the basis of individual learning interpretations.
Social and personal adjustment of elementary and secondary students

The present study examined school adjustment problems of about 1000 students aged 6 through 17 years. The Behavior Problem Checklist was factor-analyzed to identify multivariate factors of adjustment problems. Age- and sex-based subgroups were then compared on these factors, and some estimates of criteria for abnormality were derived. Finally, the prevalence of each problem on the checklist was derived separately for age- and sex-based subgroups, which were then contrasted on the items. The results provide basic information about the adjustment problems of those students who are not considered socially or personally maladjusted.
Functional characteristics of children diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe the complex array of functional problems in children diagnosed by their treating speech/language pathologist with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS...
Bottom‐up Assembly of Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) on Carbon Nanotubes: 2D Building Blocks for Nanoscale Circuits

Hierarchical poly(3-hexylthiophene)(P3HT)/carbon nanotube (CNT) supramolecular structures were fabricated through a bottom-up CNT induced P3HT crystallization strategy. P3HT nanowires growing perpendicular from CNT surface have uniform width and height. The density and the length of these nanowires can be controlled by tuning the P3HT/CNT mass ratio. The quasi-isothermal crystallization process monitored by in situ UV-Vis spectroscopy indicates that CNTs can greatly enhance the P3HT crystallization, and the P3HT nanowire formation follows first-order kinetics. Such bottom-up strategy provides a general approach to build 2D functional conductive supramolecular structures that will lead to numerous applications in nanoscale electronics.
An armed forces epidemiological board evaluation of injuries in the military.

In the early 1990s, there was a growing awareness that injuries were becoming a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the military services. In January 1994, the Armed Forces Epidemiological Board (AFEB) formed the Injury Prevention and Control Work Group in response to a request from the Office of The Army Surgeon General for guidance and recommendations on surveillance, prevention, and control of injuries in military populations. The board selected a panel of civilian physicians, epidemiologists, and other scientists to:
Histopathology of excised midurethral sling mesh.

The objective of this study was to compare the histological characteristics of pathological specimens of excised midurethral sling mesh and surrounding vaginal tissue in patients who presented preoperatively with pain and/or exposure of mesh to patients who underwent mesh excision for voiding dysfunction without pain and/or erosion. This is a retrospective case–control study of women who underwent excision of midurethral sling mesh between 2008 and 2013. Three groups were identified: (1) voiding dysfunction without pain or exposure (control group), (2) pain and/or mesh exposure, and (3) voiding dysfunction with pain and/or mesh exposure. All original pathological specimens were rereviewed by one pathologist blinded to indication for excision and the previous pathology report. Degree of inflammation and fibrosis were recorded based on a 4-point scale along with the presence of giant cell reaction. A total of 130 subjects met inclusion criteria: 60 (46.2 %) with voiding dysfunction only, 21 (16.2 %) with pain/erosion, and 49 (37.7 %) with both pain/exposure and voiding dysfunction. The voiding dysfunction only group was found to have significantly higher levels of inflammation, median grade 2 (1–3), compared to the other two groups with a p value of 0.007. There were no statistical differences in fibrosis and giant cell reaction between the three groups. Midurethral sling mesh excised for voiding dysfunction demonstrates elevated levels of inflammation compared to mesh that is excised for pain and/or exposure. The vaginal tissue fibrosis and giant cell reaction are similar in patients who undergo mesh excision for voiding dysfunction and pain, and/or mesh exposure.