cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heteroepitaxy of CdTe on Si substrates in view of infrared and x-ray detection

CdTe can be grown directly on silicon substrates by Molecular Beam Epitaxy. On Si(001), CdTe grows in the (111)B orientation. The homo-orientation on Si(001), Si(111) and Si(211) can be obtained if a buffer ZnTe epilayer is grown prior to CdTe growth. A systematic study of the growth of CdTe(111)B on Si(001) surface with different atomic step structures, defined by the miscut tilt angle (theta) and the tilt direction (phi) , has been carried out. Double domain and twin formation is very sensitive to tilt parameters. When growth conditions are optimized, single domain twin free layers are obtained with suitable tilt values. The best films which exhibit double crystal X-ray rocking curve FWHM of 60 arcsec have for tilt parameters (theta) equals 1 degree(s) and (phi) equals 30 degree(s). The heterointerface formation has been studied by photoelectron spectroscopy with synchrotron radiation. It was found that in the very first step of the growth, up to one monolayer of Te is absorbed on Si(001).
Temperature and Plant Nutrient Effects on Resistance of Seedling Sorghum to the Greenhug

The resistance of the resistant sorghum line KS 30 and the susceptible hybrid RS 671 to biotype C of Schizaphis graminum (Rond.) was determined under 3 temperature regimens (10.0-21.1, 14.6-26.7 and 21.1-32.2 deg C) and with plants growing in 7 different nutrient solutions. In general, resistance decreased as the temperature decreased. However, resistance was also influenced by the type of nutrients; changes in the nutrient supply altered the level of tolerance rather than antibiosis. Resistant plants growing in solutions containing excess potassium exhibited the highest resistance under all 3 temperature regimens.ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT:The level of resistance of the resistant sorghum cv. KS 30 and the susceptible cv. RS 671 to greenbugs (Schizaphis graminum) at day/night temp. of 21/10 deg , 26/16 deg or 32/21 deg C and in 7 different nutrient sol. was investigated. At the lower temp. resistance was lowered and was influenced by the nutrients applied to the plant. Changes in nutrient supply varied the level of tolerance more than antibiosis. Resistant plants growing in excess K sol. achieved the highest resistance compared with susceptible plants under all temp. regimes
Fuzzy relation spaces for group decision theory: An application

Abstract In a previous issue the authors proposed a fuzzy relation-theoretic model for group decision theory, and proved a number of theorems concerning its structural properties. The present paper, a revision of a 1977 IEEE CDC Proceedings talk, exemplifies one possible application of the theory; updates references to other published applications and closely related work; and expands suggestions for potential research along several lines of theory and applications.
Managing diabetes with nanomedicine: challenges and opportunities

Nanotechnology-based approaches hold substantial potential for improving the care of patients with diabetes. Nanoparticles are being developed as imaging contrast agents to assist in the early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Glucose nanosensors are being incorporated in implantable devices that enable more accurate and patient-friendly real-time tracking of blood glucose levels, and are also providing the basis for glucose-responsive nanoparticles that better mimic the body's physiological needs for insulin. Finally, nanotechnology is being used in non-invasive approaches to insulin delivery and to engineer more effective vaccine, cell and gene therapies for type 1 diabetes. Here, we analyse the current state of these approaches and discuss key issues for their translation to clinical practice.
On the Reversibility of Hydrogen Storage in Novel Complex Hydrides

A comparison of the hydrogen release and uptake (cycling) capability of Ti-doped NaAlH4, LiAlH4 and Mg(AlH4)2 as a function of Ti dopant concentration, temperature, pressure, and cycle number is reported. Temperature programmed desorption revealed hydrogen release capacities of around 3 wt% at 140∘C, 3 wt% at 100∘C and 6 wt% at 150∘C, respectively for the Ti doped Na, Li and Mg alanates. In the same order, release capacities of 0.5, 2.0 and 1.5 wt% were obtained in 150, 6 and 150 min during constant temperature desorption at 90∘C. Although all three alanates exhibit striking characteristics that make them potential hydrogen storage materials, it remains that only Ti-doped NaAlH4 exhibits around 3 wt% reversibility under reasonable conditions.
Secondary affective disorder in women with somatization disorder

Of 60 women with somatization disorder (SD), 54 (90%) met DSM-III criteria for a major affective episode. This group with secondary affective disorder (SAD) was compared with 29 women who had primary affective disorder (PAD). SAD patients reported significantly more symptoms, more psychiatric admissions, more and longer episodes of depression; more had attempted suicide, and more had made multiple attempts. SAD patients had often been hospitalized and were likely to have been treated with lithium and a variety of antidepressants. Studying relatively homogeneous primary psychiatric diagnoses facilitates the identification of distinctions between SAD and PAD patients.
Primary clear cell carcinoma of the peritoneum

Abstract A case of primary clear cell carcinoma of the pelvic and abdominal peritoneum which occured in a 67-year-old woman and with histological characteristics of Mullerian derivation is presented. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a case. Although clear cell carcinomas have been previously described in peritoneal or retroperitoneal locations, these have been mass lesions thought to arise from endometriosis. All other cases of diffuse primary peritoneal adenocarcinomas have been of the serous type.
Radiosurgery as primary management for meningiomas extending into the internal auditory canal.

Stereotactic radiosurgery is increasingly utilized as primary management for patients with skull base meningiomas. This study reviews the results of stereotactic radiosurgery for patients with meningiomas extending into the internal auditory canal (IAC) to determine the risk of facial weakness or hearing loss. From 1990 to 2002, 16 patients had radiosurgery for meningiomas extending into the IAC. The median patient age was 63 years. Ten patients had symptoms of vestibulocochlear nerve dysfunction before radiosurgery. The median tumor volume was 5.1 cm3; the median tumor extension into the IAC was 7 mm (range, 3–12). The median tumor margin dose was 15 Gy. The median follow-up was 36 months. Ten meningiomas (63%) decreased in size, and 6 tumors were unchanged. No patient developed facial weakness. One patient (6%) had worsened facial sensation. Three of 14 patients (21%) with either normal hearing clinically (n = 5) or documented Gardner-Robertson class 1–2 before radiosurgery (n = 9) had decreased hearing after radiosurgery. The 1-, 2- and 5-year actuarial incidences of hearing preservation were 93, 84 and 42%, respectively. Three patients (19%) had improved hearing after radiosurgery. One patient with class 2 hearing improved to class 1; 2 patients with no speech discrimination before radiosurgery (class 5) improved to a class 3 status following the procedure. The risk of facial weakness or hearing loss is low after radiosurgery for patients with meningiomas extending into the IAC. Radiosurgery is an excellent alternative to surgical excision for meningiomas in this location, especially if a subtotal resection is likely or a hearing-sacrificing operation such as a translabyrinthine approach is contemplated.
Electron microscope studies of sperm incorporation into the golden hamster egg.

Hamster eggs freed from the cumulus oophorus and zona pellucida were inseminated in vitro with capacitated spermatozoa. As soon as the spermatozoon reaches the surface of the egg cytoplasm, numerous microvilli of the egg surround the spermatozoon. Those microvilli attached to the acrosomal collar region of the spermatozoon quickly spread over the inner acrosomal membrane of this region, dislodging the outer acrosomal membrane and the overlying sperm plasma membrane. At the same time, microvilli fuse with the plasma membrane of the postnuclear cap region of the spermatozoon, and the egg cytoplasm quickly flows around the nucleus of that region of the spermatozoon. The inner acrosomal membrane persisting on the sperm head never fuses with the egg (microvillar) plasma membrane. This membrane is destined to disintegrate and be absorbed into the egg cytoplasm. Incorporation of the sperm flagellum into the egg cytoplasm takes place by fusion between plasma membranes of the spermatozoon and egg.
Longitudinal (T1) relaxation times of phosphorus metabolites in the bovine and rabbit lens

Longitudinal (T1) magnetic relaxation times for the major phosphorus-containing metabolites present in the bovine and rabbit lens under organ culture conditions and in the bovine and rabbit globe have been determined. Significant differences in T1 for the major phosphorus metabolites in each case are observed, as well as for the same metabolite in the two species examined. Species-dependent lens hydration may account, in part, for these differences. Because of the requirement for rapid repetitive pulsing for the attainment of optimum signal collection efficiency by the Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance method, significant differential saturation of metabolite resonance intensities occurs in circumstances where appreciable differences in T1 relaxation times are present, which, unless corrected, leads to erroneous determinations of relative metabolite levels. The net effect of assessing relative metabolite levels in terms of the percentage of total phosphate signal, without a correction for T1 discrimination, is to underestimate metabolites with a long T1 (sugar phosphates) and overestimate those metabolites with a short T1 (ATP). Individual metabolite T1 discrimination factors are calculated from integrated areas of spectra acquired using short and long repetition times as well as from metabolite T1 values. They are then employed, for the first time, for the correction of 31P-NMR spectra of bovine and rabbit lenses. Corrected spectra provide relative metabolite levels for lenticular ATP which are in excellent agreement with values determined by chemical and enzymatic assays.
Preventing myringotomy closure with topical mitomycin C in rats.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether mitomycin C could be used to prolong the patency of the myringotomy site in the absence of ventilation tubes in rats. We examined the effect of increased exposure time and repeat application of mitomycin C to the myringotomy site. Sixty animals were separated into 4 groups: group A had a single application of mitomycin C for 10 minutes; group B had a single application for 20 minutes; group C received 2 10-minute applications separated by 1 week; and group D received 2 applications (20 and 10 minutes) separated by 1 week. Mitomycin C and bacteriostatic saline solution were applied to the right and left myringotomy sites in each rat, respectively. Experimental ears in groups A, B, C, and D remained open for a median time of 6.5, 5.5, 6.5, and 8.5 weeks, respectively. The control ears healed within 1.5 weeks. This difference was statistically significant with P < 0.001 for each group. We conclude that mitomycin C is effective in prolonging the patency of myringotomies in rat tympanic membranes. Increased exposure time or repeat application of mitomycin C did not statistically alter the patency rate. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1999;120:794-8.)
Global stability of a direct hybrid adaptive pole placement algorithm

This paper presents a hybrid adaptive control scheme for assigning the closed loop poles of a single-input single-output continuous time linear system. The resulting closed loop system is shown to be globally stable when driven by an external reference signal containing exactly 2n distinct sinusoids where n is the open-loop system order. In particular, persistant excitation of the closed loop input-output data, and hence convergence of a sequential least squares identification algorithm is proven.
Correlation of pigmentation and bacteriophage sensitivity in coagulase positive staphylococci.

Summary1) A high correlation was observed between pigmentation, bound coagulase and sensitivity to typing phages in staphylococcal strains freshly isolated from routine clinical hospital specimens. 2) A simple method for determining phage sensitivity using a pool of 3 undiluted typing phages is described and possible applications are discussed.
A neural architecture for the symmetric-axis transform

The symmetric-axis transform is a process that dynamically encodes the space of a visual shape through self-interaction of its contours. It is generally simulated using computer algorithms. A neural architecture of this transformation is presented that is conceptually simple enough for a hardware implementation. Its architecture consists of a wave-propagating map, orientation-selective columns detecting wave pieces of specific orientation, and a coincidence map detecting the clash of two wave fronts. We illustrate its operation on partial contours extracted from gray-scale images.
The role of perceptual elaboration and individual differences in the creation of false memories for suggested events.

Witnesses who are exposed to false or misleading information in the course of an investigation are often asked follow-up questions designed to elicit more detailed information about the alleged objects/events. The results of the present study showed that pressing witnesses to elaborate on the perceptual characteristics of suggested events increased false memory for these events. Specifically, participants who were asked about the perceptual details of suggested events (e.g. their location, physical appearance, etc.) were much more likely to later claim they 'definitely' remembered witnessing the fictions events than participants who were exposed to the same suggestions but were not probed about additional perceptual details. In addition, the present study examined the role of individual difference variables in susceptibility to suggestion. The results showed that scores on the Tellegen Absorption Scale (but not the Dissociative Experiences Scale and the Creative Imagination Scale) were correlated with susceptibility to false memory in this paradigm. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Language: en
Use of Trellis thrombectomy system in acute aortofemoral graft occlusion.

Acute aortofemoral graft occlusion is often effectively treated with endovascular therapy but a substantial proportion of patients experience failure or complications of this therapy, and most of them require definitive surgery for the underlying inflow, outflow, or graft disease. We describe a case of an aortofemoral graft occlusion that was successfully treated with the Trellis thrombectomy–thrombolysis system (Covidien, Dublin, Ireland). Subsequent stenting of the graft obviated the need for a definitive graft revision surgery. The Trellis system combines mechanical and local pharmacologic lysis of the thrombus, with more rapid and more effective thrombus dissolution and theoretically less risk of systemic dispersion of the thrombolytic agent and less bleeding. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An Assessment of the Singapore Skills Development System: Does it Constitute a Viable Model for Other Developing Countries?

Abstract In this paper, we briefly describe the institutional background of Singapore's successful national skills development model. We devise a tentative framework to evaluate national level skills development efforts, and we use it to assess the Singapore model. We argue that the model has the potential to move constantly toward higher skills equilibria. We question however, the long-term sustainability of the model, and whether it is transferable to other developing countries. We conclude with some principles that other countries might use in organizing their own skills development systems.
Studying metapopulation effects in predator-prey systems

It has been suggested that many predator-prey systems persist, despite unstable local interactions, due tometapopulation processes: movement of individuals among largely independent local populations. I review 13 possible examplesof this phenomenon all I could find in the literature—and find that each either lacks convincing data or is not a truemetapopulation. Most of the examples rely on evidence of local extinction and recolonization, only a few using directexperimental methods; I discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these methods, as well as alternatives.
Quantification of stretch-induced cytoskeletal remodeling in vascular endothelial cells by image processing.

Background Reorientation of the cell axis induced by cyclic stretching is an early response to mechanical forces in vitro. However, quantitative assay for this phenomenon has been difficult due to lack of robust methods. We hypothesized that cell orientation may be redefined by the orientation of actin fibers. We developed image processing methods to quantitate the orientation and density of actin fibers. Methods A convolution filter using Sobel kernels was adapted to determine the orientation and density of actin fibers in human endothelial cells. Unidirectional stretching (10%, 0.5 Hz) was applied to induce cytoskeletal remodeling by varying the duration of stimulation (control, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 h). Actin fibers were visualized by fluorescent phalloidin. The image processing method was compared with the manual method for reproducibility. Both confluent and subconfluent cells were tested to assess the efficacy of the methods. Results Cyclic stretch-induced dense and uninterrupted actin cabling formed across the cell body and, later, the actin fibers became aligned perpendicular to the stretch direction. The variance of actin fiber orientation became smaller after 2 h of stretch (F < 0.01). The actin fiber density index, a derived parameter related to the density of actin fibers, increased as early as 30 min of stretching (P < 0.05) and decreased after 10 h of stretching. Reproducibility of our method was extremely good. Applicability of the method was not compromised by cell density. Conclusions Our method is reliable for quantifying cytoskeletal remodeling induced by mechanical force. Cytometry Part A 55A:109–118, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Development and Application of a Standards-Based Inventory of Foundation Competencies in Social Work with Groups

The International Association for Social Work with Groups Standards for the Practice of Social Work with Groups is an essential document for advancing practice and teaching about social work with groups. However, surveys have reported that many group workers know little about the Standards or about how to teach or apply group work knowledge and skills. This article summarizes the research on the development of a reliable and valid inventory based on the Standards and an effective teaching strategy to improve learning about the Standards. The inventory and teaching method provide tools for advancing evidence-based practice and teaching.
Government Policies and Disabled People in American Indian Communities

ABSTRACT Although services and resources for disabled people in the United States have improved greatly as a result of legislation and advocacy efforts, many of the disabled in American Indian communities have yet to benefit from these advances. Inaccessibility to services is often complicated by problems and debates over which agency, state or federal, is responsible or has jurisdiction to provide the services. Meanwhile, Indian communities struggle to accomplish what they can with limited resources.
Microwave synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of new 3‐benzyl‐1,2,3‐benzotriazin‐4(3H)‐ones

Several 3-benzyl-1,2,3-benzotriazin-4(3H)-ones 1 were prepared by alkylation of 1,2,3-benzotriazin-4(3H)-one with benzyl halides in dimethylformamide in a microwave oven in moderate yields. Accompanying 1 were minor amounts of products believed to be the O-alkylated derivatives. Support for 3-benzylation is shown by an alternate synthesis of la from o-amino-N-benzylbenzamide by nitrous acid cyclization. The title compounds were evaluated in mice and rats in maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (scMet) seizure models for anticonvulsant activity, and in the rotorod test for neurotoxi-city. They were generally non-toxic. The 3-benzyl analog was the most active (maximal electroshock) compound; it's maximal electroshock ED50 value was 93 mg/kg (mouse).
Using crop and pest models for management applications

Abstract Models that simulate crop production systems are useful tools to aid in crop management. The manager can evaluate numerous management options quickly and select the options most suitable for his situation. The Florida Soybean growth model (SOYGRO) has been implemented with several user interfaces to meet specific management goals. These implementations include a gaming model (SOYGAME), a pest decision model (PESTDEC), an irrigation decision model (IRRDEC) and a strategy evaluation model (SICM). The crop model integrates the effects of weather conditions, crop management inputs and soil conditions on crop yield and the yield changes are reflected in the corresponding profit. Also described in the paper is an automated weather collection and reporting system for the acquisition and use of weather data.
Quantum well states and oscillatory magnetic interlayer coupling

Some interesting magnetic properties of artificially layered metallic materials are strongly connected with the existence of electron standing waves, or quantum well (QW) states. One such property is the oscillation in exchange coupling between two ferromagnetic materials separated by a nonmagnetic spacer layer of varying thicknesses. This article summarizes the findings of an extended investigation of QW states and their relation to oscillatory magnetic interlayer coupling carried out using angle-resolved photoemission with synchrotron radiation and auxiliary techniques such as magnetic x-ray linear dichroism and surface magnetic optical Kerr effect. A key feature of the measurements was the use of wedge-shaped samples, which, in combination with the small spot size of the synchrotron source, permitted investigation of the entire layer thickness range in a single experiment. Single-wedge samples were used as well as double-wedge samples tapered in orthogonal directions. The systematics of QW formation are well understood in terms of the elementary quantum mechanics of a particle in a box. We treat a single well, a double well and a corrugated well. The work on single wells focused on the elucidation of the long and short magnetic oscillatory periods for a Cu spacer layer, and their relation to the belly and neck regions of the Cu Fermi surface. The effects of interfacial roughness and interfacial mixing were investigated. The studies on double wells focused on the controllable degree of tunnelling between the wells and the avoided crossings that occur when the QW energies in one well are swept through those of the other. Finally, we consider the QW wavefunctions and their envelope modulation. The latter can be understood in terms of Bragg diffraction within a corrugated well. With use of a double-wedge-shaped sample it has proved possible to pass a thin probe across the well and to detect experimentally the envelope modulation.
Long period grating-based fiber-optic PH sensor for ocean monitoring

ABSTRACT A ber-optic PH sensor is developed based-on the long p eriod grating (LPG). The LPG is fabricated by usingCO 2 laser with a point-by-point technique. Then the grating portion is coated with PH sensitive hydrogel. Thehydrogel, made of PVA/PAA, swells its volume in response to the PH change in the surrounding environmentand results in a change in the refractive index. As a resul t, the LPG can response to the refractive index changein the coating by shifting its wavelength. Therefore, change in refractive index can be measured by tracking thewavelength shift using an opti cal spectrum analyzer (OSA).In this research, the LPG is dip-coated by the hydrogel. A chemostat is designed to simulate the marineenvironment. The PH in the chemostat is varied by controlling the CO 2 concentration in the sea water. A PHresolution 0.046/nm using the OSA has been obtained. This sensor is designed to monitor the sea water PHchange in a long term basis.Keywords: : LPG, PH, hydrogel, refractive index
Axonal release of glutamate analog, d-2,3-3H-Aspartic acid and l-14C-proline from segments of sciatic nerve following electrical and magnetic stimulation.

Abstract Segments of the mouse sciatic nerve were preloaded with either d -2,3- 3 H-Aspartic acid [nonmetabolizable analog of glutamate] or l - 14 C-proline and the release of these exogenous molecules was evaluated in the fractions of the perfusate following electrical or magnetic stimulation. The electrical stimulation (10 Hz, 10 Am, 20 s) induced an instantaneous increase in the release of both molecules, although the release of d -2,3- 3 H-Aspartic acid was much greater. Moreover, contrary to l - 14 C-proline, the release of d -2,3- 3 H-Aspartic acid was Ca 2+ -dependent. While magnetic stimulation (15 mT, 0.16 Hz, 30 min) also induced the release of d -2,3- 3 H-Aspartic acid in a Ca 2+ -dependent way, the release of l - 14 C-proline was negligible. These results indicate that axons can release glutamate in a specific, calcium-dependent way. This release may contribute to interaxonal interactions.
Post-Dominant Design Technological Shift: Analysis of Subsystem-Level Evolution of Complex Product

Using the systems view of the product, I argue that the emergence of a dominant design does not necessarily lead to a period of incremental innovation and subsequent product discontinuity; rather, firms shift focus of innovation to another part of the product at a subsystem level following the emergence of a dominant design. I carefully performed both the historical analysis of technology evolution and detailed patent content analysis for the automotive emissions control system and empirically confirmed that there was significant shift in the focus of innovation to another subsystem, electronics, following the emergence of a catalyst-based dominant design. Moreover, the rate of innovation during the post-dominant design period is found to be lower than that of the pre-dominant design period. Findings of this study highlight the importance of the “match complexity” view of researchers that emphasizes system integration capability for managing contemporary complex technology evolution.
Linkage data supporting a mathematical explanation for some empirical cis-trans effects.

Linkage data supporting a mathematical explanation for some empirical CIS - Trans effects
Autophagy and oxidative stress in gliomas with IDH1 mutations.

IDH1 mutations in gliomas associate with longer survival. Prooxidant and antiproliferative effects of IDH1 mutations and its d-2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG) product have been described in vitro, but inconsistently observed. It is also unclear whether overexpression of mutant IDH1 in wild-type cells accurately phenocopies the effects of endogenous IDH1-mutations on tumor apoptosis and autophagy. Herein we investigated the effects of 2-HG and mutant IDH1 overexpression on proliferation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy in IDH1 wild-type glioma cells, and compared those results with patient-derived tumors. 2-HG reduced viability and proliferation of U87MG and LN18 cells, triggered apoptosis in LN18 cells, and autophagy in U87MG cells. In vitro studies and flank xenografts of U87MG cells overexpressing R132H IDH1 exhibited increased oxidative stress, including increases of both manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and p62. Patient-derived IDH1-mutant tumors showed no significant differences in apoptosis or autophagy, but showed p62 accumulation and actually trended toward reduced MnSOD expression. These data indicate that mutant IDH1 and 2-HG can induce oxidative stress, autophagy, and apoptosis, but these effects vary greatly according to cell type.
Response of Striated Muscle to Electrical Stimulation

SUMMARY— The response of striated muscle to electrical stimulation was studied in 30 Duroc pigs at two weights; and in 14 Poland China, 11 Yorkshire and 8 Yorkshire-Duroc crossbred pigs of market weight. The Duroc pigs in the heavyweight group were more responsive to electrical stimulation, had a slower rate of post-mortem pH decline and higher color-morphology ratings than the light weight group of Durocs. The sex of the animal had only a slight effect on the response of the muscle to electrical stimulation. Muscles with a slow rate of glycolysis were significantly more responsive to electrical stimulation than those with an intermediate rate of glycolysis. The initial lactic acid concentration, unless present in excessive quantities, appeared to have little influence on the responsiveness of the muscle to electrical stimulation. Lactic acid increased significantly, accompanied by a lowering of pH, during the electrical stimulation of the muscle. Stimulation of the spinal cord caused a significantly lower color-morphology rating and pH in the Poland China and Yorkshire, but not in the Duroc animals. Electrical stimulation in animals other than Poland China did not produce pale, soft, exudative (PSE) musculature. The electrical stimulatory response of red and white muscle was not significantly (P > .05) different; however, the data indicate that white muscle and PSE muscle do not respond in a similar manner to electrical stimulation.
Assessment of Time-Volume and Flow-Volume Components of Forced Vital Capacity: Measurement with Spirometry, Body Plethysmography and Respiratory Inductive Plethysmography in Nonsmokers and Smokers

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the effectiveness of the time-volume and flow-volume components of the forced vital capacity measured by simultaneous spirometry, respiratory inductive plethysmography, and body plethysmography in detecting small airway disease. Spirometry measured the exit of gas from the lungs, whereas body plethysmography measured both the exit of gas and alveolar gas compression. Respiratory inductive plethysmography, which reflected change in thoracic volume, provided semi-quantitative data of both gas exit and alveolar gas compression which generally lay between spirometry and body plethysmography. In nine nonsmokers and 12 smokers (six with small airway disease as defined by abnormal closing volumes and alveolar uniformity), analysis of forced vital capacity revealed that the only test which differentiated nonsmokers from smokers was the higher spirometric estimation of maximum expiratory flow measured at 25 percent VC in nonsmokers. Combining flow measured at the mouth with volume referenced to change in alveolar gas volume as measured by body or respiratory inductive plethysmography did not differentiate nonsmokers from smokers. Moment analysis performed of forced vital capacity with all of the three devices did not distinguish nonsmokers from smokers. The data in this study and a review of other investigations indicate that the time-volume and flow-volume components of the forced vital capacity on air breathing are not very sensitive in detecting early lung disease in smokers.
The Shuttle Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer Experiment

A magnetic mass spectrometer currently is being adapted to the Space Shuttle Orbiter to provide repeated high-altitude atmosphere data to support in situ rarefied flow aerodynamics research, i.e., in the high-velocity, low-density flight regime. The experiment, called Shuttle Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer (SUMS), is the first attempt to design mass spectrometer equipment for flight vehicle aerodynamic data extraction, and will make the measurement of aerodynamic coefficients of the Shuttle Orbiter possible in low-density flow. The SUMS experiment will provide freestream atmospheric properties, principally mass density, above altitudes at which conventional pressure measurements are valid. Experiment concepts, the expected flight profile, tradeoffs in the design of the total system, and flight data reductipn plans are discussed. Development plans are based upon a SUMS first flight after the Orbiter initial development flights.
Determination of D1 and D2 dopamine receptor expression by Ntera-2 cells

There is evidence that D1 and D2 dopamine receptors are co-expressed on some neurons. As a potential model of co-expression we examined Ntera-2 cells using RT-PCR, and showed that they express D2 but not D1 receptors. D2 dopamine receptor expression was confirmed by quinpirole inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation. Absence of D1 dopamine receptors was confirmed by the inability of dopamine or SKF 81297 to increase cAMP.
Chemical analysis of powder and set forms of Portland cement, gray ProRoot MTA, white ProRoot MTA, and gray MTA-Angelus.

Objective To evaluate the chemical composition and crystalline structures of Portland cement, gray ProRoot MTA (gray MTA), white ProRoot MTA (white MTA), and gray MTA-Angelus. Study design X-ray diffraction analysis was used to identify and characterize crystalline phases, and energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer was used to determine the chemical composition of the test materials. Both powder form and set form were examined. Results The crystalline structure and chemical composition of gray and white MTA were similar except for the presence of iron in gray MTA. Both were composed mainly of bismuth oxide and calcium silicate oxide. Portland cement was composed mainly of calcium silicate oxide and did not contain bismuth oxide. Gray MTA-Angelus had a lower content of bismuth oxide than ProRoot MTA. There were no noticeable differences in the chemical composition and crystalline structures between the powder and set forms of any of the material tested. Conclusion Portland cement differed from the MTA by the absence of bismuth ions and presence of potassium ions. Gray MTA contained a significant amount of iron when compared with white MTA. In addition, gray MTA-Angelus had a lower content of bismuth oxide than ProRoot MTA.
Identities, Education and Reentry: Performative Spaces and Enclosures

This is part one of a two-part interdisciplinary paper that examines the various forces (discourses and institutional processes) that shape prisoner-student identities. Discourses of officers from a correctional website serve as a limited, single case study of discourses that ascribe dehumanized, stigmatized identities to "the prisoner." Two critical concepts, performative spaces and identity enclosures, are purposed as potential critical, emancipatory terms to explore the prisoner-student identity work that occurs in schools and elsewhere in prison. This paper is guided by the effort to assist teachers to act as transformative intellectuals in prisons and closed-custody settings by becoming more aware of the multilayered contexts--the politics of location--that undergird their work. Seeing the "bigger picture" has implications for how and what educators teach in prison settings and, perhaps, why education works to facilitate reentry. This paper is grounded in normalization theory. Normalization theorists believe prisons can facilitate reentry when they mirror important dimensions of outside life. The performance of multiple, contextualized identities, considered here and examined in more detail in a forthcoming article, serves as an example of how educators mirror "normal" life by facilitating the performance of different roles for prisoners on the inside.
Quantitative morphologic classification of layer 5 neurons from mouse primary visual cortex

The understanding of any neural circuit requires the identification and characterization of all its components. Morphologic classifications of neurons are, therefore, of central importance to neuroscience. We use a quantitative method to classify neurons from layer 5 of mouse primary visual cortex, based on multidimensional clustering. To reconstruct neurons, we used Golgi impregnations and biocytin injections, as well as DiOlistics, a novel technique of labeling neurons with lipophilic dyes. We performed computerized 3-D reconstructions of 158 layer 5 cells to measure a series of morphologic variables. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were used for the classification of cell types. Five major classes of cells were found: group 1 includes large pyramidal neurons with apical dendrites that reach layer 1 with an apical tuft; group 2 consists of short pyramidal neurons and large multipolar cells with "polarized" dendritic trees; group 3 is composed of less extensive pyramidal neurons; group 4 includes small cells; and group 5 includes another set of short pyramidal neurons in addition to "atypically oriented" cells. Our sample included a relatively homogeneous group of 27 neurons that project to the superior colliculus, which clustered mainly in group 1, thus supporting the validity of the classification. Cluster analysis of neuronal morphologies provides an objective method to quantitatively define different neuronal phenotypes and may serve as a basis for describing neocortical circuits.
Laboratory and field tests of CGA-72662 for control of the house fly and face fly in poultry, bovine, or swine manure.

CGA-72662, (N-cyclopropyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine), an insect growth regulator, was very active against developing house flies, Musca domestica L., and face flies, M. autumnalis De Geer. Laboratory tests indicated that the LC50 to house flies exposed beginning with the egg stage was 0.42 ppm, and it was 0.04 ppm for face flies. No ovicidal or chemosterilant effects were observed. Face fly pupae were susceptible up to the point of final hardening. Topical treatment of poultry, bovine, or swine manure indicated that concns and rates ranging from 0.1% at 0.41 liter/m2 to 0.05% at 0.21 liter/m2 were effective in reducing subsequent emergence of muscoid flies. Feed-through trials using poultry receiving a rate of 1.5 ppm, or swine dosed at 0.5 mg/kg body weight/day, produced high level inhibition of house fly survival during the course of the chemical regimen. Manure from cattle fed CGA-72662 at 0.5 mg/kg/day produced more variable control of house flies.
The Most Important Role of the Mentor Is to Guide the Mentee in Finding Own Solutions to Problems

In this interview for Pancreatology, Professor Henri Sarles shares his life experiences as clinical expert and scientist in pancreatic research. He is a pancreatologist recognized worldwide for his contribution to the understanding of pancreatic diseases. In particular, he led the way in the pancreatitis field with the characterization of pathogenesis of chronic pancreatitis.
Usefulness of flow cytometric detection of cell surface interleukin-6 receptors in human myeloma cell lines

A flow cytometric procedure was used to analyse the cell surface interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) based on the principle of detecting the binding of IL-6 to IL-6R. The bound IL-6 was visualized by reacting with anti-IL-6 antibody, a second biotinylated antibody to immunoglobulins, fluorescein-conjugated avidin and biotinylated, fluorescein-conjugated bovine serum albumin. Studies with a number of human myeloma cell lines showed that the fluorescence signal from cellular binding of IL-6, and thus IL-6R, could be specifically discerned from the background. The specific IL-6R signal could be semi-quantitatively expressed as the mean channel number of the fluorescence histogram or as relative IL-6R density in relation to a reference cell line, such as U266-BL cells. The relative IL-6R density of various myeloma cell lines thus determined was found to correlate with their sensitivity to the growth inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids in vitro. Quantitatively, calibration of the staining procedure with microbeads that have a defined binding capacity for anti-IL-6 antibody allowed calculation of cellular IL-6R density that yielded results close to that reported with conventional radio-ligand binding assay. Similarly, the cytometric method was applied to the studies of kinetics of IL-6/IL-6R interaction and the cellular IL-6R changes after ligand-binding to provide estimates of IL-6R binding affinity and IL-6R turnover rate. It is suggested that flow cytometric measurement of cellular IL-6R is useful in providing biologically relevant information on myeloma cells.
The dissociation of oxy-acids at elevated temperatures

Abstract The heat capacities of dissociation for carbonic, bicarbonate, phosphoric, biphosphate, silicic, nitric, boric and bisulfate oxy-acids have been evaluated at temperatures up to 300°C using published dissociation constants, heat capacities and a model which explicitly accounts for both electrostatic and nonelectrostatic contributions to the thermodynamic properties of dissociation. The heat capacities calculated are independent of the entropies of dissociation or the chemical characteristics of the acids, and are the same for all acids of a given dissociation type ( i.e. , 1st, 2nd, etc.). The average deviation between measured and calculated log K T 's is less than 0.05 log units in the temperature range from 25 to 300°C. Dissociation constants for acetic acid can be accurately calculated using the oxy-acid heat capacity expression. The heat capacities are used to calculate dissociation constants for the oxy-acids of Cr(VI), N(III), S(IV), S(II), Se(IV), Se(VI), As(III), As(V), Te(VI), Cl(I), Cl(III), I(V) and C 1 –C 3 aliphatic acids to temperatures of 300°C.
Pharmacotherapy of disruptive behaviors associated with brain disease.

Disordered behavior resulting from central nervous system dysfunction is a common clinical problem for practitioners and for patients. Setting aside the problem of overtly aggressive, violent behavior, this article addresses the problem of disordered or disruptive behavior associated with neuropsychiatric conditions.
Cell Polarization as a Possible Mechanism of Response Termination

Neutrophils stimulated with a low concentration of chemotactic peptide N-formyl-met-leu-phe respond with a brief pulse of actin polymerization and a persistent change in morphology from round to polarized. The recovery of the actin polymerization response is unlikely to be due to usual receptor desensitization mechanisms. We hypothesized that cell polarization and redistribution of signaling components effect the depolymerization phase of the actin response. In this report we show that the overall actin depolymerization is equivalent to the reduction in the volume occupied by F-actin while its concentration at the front of the polarized cell remains undiminished. To test whether the confinement of F-actin to a small volume can be caused by receptor redistribution, we observed receptors and F-actin in the same cell and found that their localization was different. To explain our findings, we propose a model based on the affinity of a signaling component, other than the receptor, for the areas of the cell rich in F-actin.
Detection of a novel cyclooxygenase metabolite produced by human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells.

Abstract Arachidonic acid metabolism via the lipoxygenase pathway was examined in HL-60 cells before and after N,N-dimethylformamide induced differentiation along granulocytic lines. Untreated HL-60 cells produced small amounts of the 5-lipoxygenase products, 5-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid and leukotriene B4 upon stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187. N,N-dimethylformamide treatment, caused a 10 to 20 fold increase in the amount of ionophore A23187-induced 5-lipoxygenase metabolites. An additional, and as yet unidentified arachidonic acid metabolite was routinely observed during reverse-phase high pressure liquid chromatography analyses of lipoxygenase products. Sensitivity to inhibition by
Clinical consequences of polypharmacy in elderly: expect the unexpected, think the unthinkable

Multiple medication use has been coined ‘polypharmacy’. Polypharmacy is highly prevalent in older patients secondary to the increased number of co-morbid disease states with ageing. Existing practi...
Diet-induced obesity causes long QT and reduces transcription of voltage-gated potassium channels

In humans, obesity is associated with long QT, increased frequency of premature ventricular complexes, and sudden cardiac death. The mechanisms of the pro-arrhythmic electrophysiologic remodeling of obesity are poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that there is decreased expression of voltage-gated potassium channels in the obese heart, leading to long QT. Using implanted telemeters, we found that diet-induced obese (DIO) wild-type mice have impaired cardiac repolarization, demonstrated by long QT, as well as more frequent ventricular ectopy, similar to obese humans. DIO mice have reduced protein and mRNA levels of the potassium channel Kv1.5 caused by a reduction of the transcription factor cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) in DIO hearts. We found that CREB knock-down by siRNA reduces Kv1.5, CREB binds to the Kv1.5 promoter in the heart, and CREB increases transcription of mouse and human Kv1.5 promoters. The reduction in CREB protein during lipotoxicity can be rescued by inhibiting protein kinase D (PKD). Our results identify a mechanism for obesity-induced electrophysiologic remodeling in the heart, namely PKD-induced reduction of CREB, which in turn decreases expression of the potassium channel Kv1.5.
Design of high-performance compact CMOS distributed amplifiers with on-chip patterned ground shield inductors

A CMOS distributed amplifier incorporating on-chip patterned ground shield (PGS) spiral inductors has been developed using a standard low-cost 0.25 m CMOS process. Measured results show that this distributed amplifier has an average gain of 7 dB, return loss of more than 10 dB, and noise figure between 4.1- 6.1 dB across DC 11 GHz. The amplifier occupies a small chip area of only 1.2 0.8 mm 2 , including RF pads. These represent the best results for 0.25 m CMOS distributed amplifiers and demonstrate that miniaturisation and high performance can be achieved for CMOS distributed amplifiers and other wideband RFICs by implementing on-chip PGS inductors.
In Memoriam: Ralph Slovenko, 1926–2013

Long-time Names member Ralph Slovenko died of congestive heart failure on November 3 2013. A month earlier he was vacationing in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he fell and broke his hip two days before ...
SIMULATIONS OF DYNAMIC PION PRODUCTION IN 60 AND 200 A GEV COLLISIONS OF 16O+197AU

We have investigated collisions of 16O with 197Au at bombarding energies of 60 and 200 GeV/N in the laboratory frame. Our hydrodynamics-based 3-D model, with a modified gamma-law equation of state, includes detailed dynamic pion production and propagation. A comparison of hydrodynamic simulations with and without the inclusion of pions shows that including the pion channel yields results which more closely reproduce the experimental data. We show direct comparisons of several predicted observables with experimental measurements made over various pseudorapidity ranges. In general, we find that while our overall energy agreement with calorimetry experiments is good, and our predicted spatial distributions are in fair agreement with experimental data, our model produces pions which are too energetic and too few in balancing proportions. Our results indicate that most of the emitted (measured) pions emerge from the cooler surface, and not from the hot, dense interior of the hadronic composite.