cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Occlusal considerations for partially or completely edentulous skeletal class II patients. Part I: Background information

Although approximately 15% of the population may be classified as having the skeletal class II relationship, this group of patients is far from homogeneous. Two prototypes were used to delineate various problems in the prosthodontic occlusion that dentists may encounter with these patients. A satisfactory occlusion is difficult to achieve because of skeletal discrepancies, limited space for occlusal contact, steep guidance factors, and the necessity for multiple eccentric occlusal contacts because of the significant range of mandibular motion.
Structure and dynamics of electrical double layers in organic electrolytes.

The organic electrolyte of tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TEABF4) in the aprotic solvent of acetonitrile (ACN) is widely used in electrochemical systems such as electrochemical capacitors. In this paper, we examine the solvation of TEA+ and BF4− in ACN, and the structure, capacitance, and dynamics of the electrical double layers (EDLs) in the TEABF4–ACN electrolyte using molecular dynamics simulations complemented with quantum density functional theory calculations. The solvation of TEA+ and BF4− ions is found to be much weaker than that of small inorganic ions in aqueous solutions, and the ACN molecules in the solvation shell of both types of ions show only weak packing and orientational ordering. These solvation characteristics are caused by the large size, charge delocalization, and irregular shape (in the case of TEA+ cation) of the ions. Near neutral electrodes, the double-layer structure in the organic electrolyte exhibits a rich organization: the solvent shows strong layering and orientational ordering, ions are significantly contact-adsorbed on the electrode, and alternating layers of cations/anions penetrate ca. 1.1 nm into the bulk electrolyte. The significant contact adsorption of ions and the alternating layering of cation/anion are new features found for EDLs in organic electrolytes. These features essentially originate from the fact that van der Waals interactions between organic ions and the electrode are strong and the partial desolvation of these ions occurs easily, as a result of the large size of the organic ions. Near charged electrodes, distinct counter-ion concentration peaks form, and the ion distribution cannot be described by the Helmholtz model or the Helmholtz + Poisson–Boltzmann model. This is because the number of counter-ions adsorbed on the electrode exceeds the number of electrons on the electrode, and the electrode is over-screened in parts of the EDL. The computed capacitances of the EDLs are in good agreement with that inferred from experimental measurements. Both the rotations (ACN only) and translations of interfacial ACN and ions are found to slow down as the electrode is electrified. We also observe an asymmetrical dependence of these motions on the sign of the electrode charge. The rotation/diffusion of ACN and the diffusion of ions in the region beyond the first ACN or ion layer differ only weakly from those in the bulk.
POPAE - A 1000 Gev on 1000 Gev Proton-Proton Colliding Beam Facility

A proposal has been developed for the construction of a 1000 GeV on 1000 GeV colliding beam facility at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. To achieve the same 2000-GeV center-of-mass energy with a fixed target accelerator would require a beam of more than 2 × 106 GeV. The total circumference of the facility is 5520 m, including six straight sections, each 200 m long. Injection from the Fermilab main ring or Energy Saver/Doubler (ES/D) will be at the energy desired for interactions, thus avoiding the uncertainty, complication, and cost of accelerating very intense beams in the storage rings themselves. Each ring will require 570 superconducting dipole magnets, each 6.2 m long; the field required at 1000 GeV is 60 kG. For a proton current of 5A in each ring at 1000 GeV, the high-luminosity insertion is designed to give L = 4 × 1033 cm-2 sec-1. The proposal was developed during an intensive study from November 1975 to April 1976. This study drew not only on the experience of the CERN ISR2 and previous Fermilab designs, but also on studies of high energy storage rings made at Brookhaven National Laboratory (Isabelle)4 and at CERN (LSR).5
Considerations for measuring genetic variation and population structure with multilocus fingerprinting

Multilocus DNA fingerprinting provides a cost-effective means to rapidly assay genetic variation at many loci. While this makes the technique particularly attractive for studies of evolution and conservation biology, fingerprint data can be difficult to interpret. Measurement errors inherent with the technique force investigators to group similar-sized alleles (bands) into discrete bins before estimating genetic parameters. If too little error is accounted for in this process homologous alleles will not be grouped in a common bin, whereas overestimated error can produce bins with homoplasic alleles. We used simulations and empirical data for two frog species (Rana luteiventris and Hyla regilla) to demonstrate that mean band-sharing (S¯xy) and heterozygosity (H¯E) are a function of both bin width and band profile complexity (i.e. number and distribution of bands). These estimators are also sensitive to the number of lanes included in the analysis when bin width is wide and a floating bin algorithm is employed. Multilocus estimates of H¯E were highly correlated with S¯xy and thus provide no additional information about genetic variation. Estimates of population subdivision (F^ and Φ^ST) appeared robust to changes in bin size. We also examined the issue of statistical independence for band-sharing data when comparisons are made among all samples. This analysis indicated that the covariance between band-sharing statistics was very small and not statistically different from zero. We recommend that sensitivity analyses for bin size be used to improve confidence in the biological interpretation of multilocus fingerprints, and that the covariance structure for band-sharing statistics be examined.
The pointillism method for creating stimuli suitable for use in computer-based visual contrast sensitivity testing.

An increasingly large corpus of clinical and experimental neuropsychological research has demonstrated the utility of measuring visual contrast sensitivity. Unfortunately, existing means of measuring contrast sensitivity can be prohibitively expensive, difficult to standardize, or lack reliability. Additionally, most existing tests do not allow full control over important characteristics, such as off-angle rotations, waveform, contrast, and spatial frequency. Ideally, researchers could manipulate characteristics and display stimuli in a computerized task designed to meet experimental needs. Thus far, 256-bit color limitation in standard cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors has been preclusive. To this end, the pointillism method (PM) was developed. Using MATLAB® software, stimuli are created based on both mathematical and stochastic components, such that differences in regional luminance values of the gradient field closely approximate the desired contrast. This paper describes the method and examines its performance in sine and square-wave image sets from a range of contrast values. Results suggest the utility of the method for most experimental applications. Weaknesses in the current version, the need for validation and reliability studies, and considerations regarding applications are discussed. Syntax for the program is provided in an appendix, and a version of the program independent of MATLAB® is available from the author.
Mechano-chemistry of closed, vesicular membrane systems

Abstract The definition of a surface pressure in the encapsulating membrane surface of a large vesicle or biological cell cannot be stated in the same manner as for an insoluble monolayer, nor can a surface pressure be measured directly, as in a monolayer system. Our approach is to determine a suitable definition for surface pressure in closed membrane systems of large vesicles and biological cells; this surface pressure will represent an internal equation of state for the membrane that can be compared with the observed monolayer surface pressure versus area behavior. Using mechanical experiments to produce isotropic membrane tension and area expansion, changes in surface pressure can be determined as a function of area change. The relationship between isotropic tension and surface area is called the “mechano-chemical” equation of state. We directly relate the internal equation of state, surface pressure versus area, to the mechano-chemical equation of state, isotropic tension versus area. Using this relationship, the thermodynamic changes produced in a closed, vesicular (or cellular) membrane by isotropic dilation or reduction in surface area are investigated and described in terms of experimentally determinable variables. These variables include the isothermal compressibility modulus, KT, the thermal area expansivity at constant or zero isotropic tension, ( ∂α ∂T ) T -0 , the temperature gradient in the area compressibility modulus, ( dK T dT ) , and the specific heat at constant or zero isotropic tension, C T . In conjunction with known equations of state, the thermoelastic change provides direct assessment of the temperature dependence of the interfacial free-energy density of hydrophobic interaction. In the absence of external forces, the surface pressure is determined by the interfacial free-energy density of hydrophobic interaction.
How Competent Are We to Assess Psychotherapeutic Competence in Psychiatric Residents

Background: The Residency Review Committee (RRC) for Psychiatry has mandated that training programs “must demonstrate that residents have achieved competency in at least the following forms of treatment: brief therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, combined psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, psychodynamic therapy, and supportive therapy.” Aim: To analyze the extent to which programs can realistically demonstrate that residents have achieved summative competency in these modalities. Method: We briefly review methods from other fields for assuring procedural competence, review methods available to psychiatric educators for assuring competencies in psychotherapy, and assess these methods for their adequacy. Results: Available and foreseeable assessment methods are incapable of demonstrating that residents achieve summative competency in the five specified psychotherapies or of definitively distinguishing potentially dangerous practitioners from safe practitioners. At best, educators may be able to assure formative competencies, including mastery of core knowledge of the psychotherapies, actual undertaking of these psychotherapies, and adequate performance in selected elements of these psychotherapies. Conclusions: Since it is unrealistic to assume that training programs will ever be able to confirm summative competencies in these psychotherapies, we advise programs to define precisely the levels of formative competence they expect, and design curriculum and measures accordingly. Further, we urge the RRC to revise their requirements to address expectations more honestly, and to re-state the expected competencies more modestly. We believe that the RRC can expect programs to show that all residents can demonstrate knowledge about the evidence base, theories and rules of practice supporting at least the following forms of treatment: brief therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, combined psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, psychodynamic therapy, and supportive therapy. We also believe that programs might be asked to demonstrate by means of patient logs and other forms of documentation that all residents have at least conducted such types of psychotherapy under qualified supervision.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 Induced Proliferation in Osteoblasts and Bone Marrow Stromal Cells: A Whole Cell Model

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) can enhance the proliferative capacity of bone and bone marrow stromal cells; however, the mechanisms behind this effect are not well described. We present a whole-cell kinetic model relating receptor-mediated binding, internalization, and processing of FGF2 to osteoblastic proliferative response. Focusing on one of the potential signaling complex stoichiometries, we utilized experimentally measured and modeled estimated rate constants to predict in vitro proliferation and distinguish between potential binding orders. We found that piecewise assemblage of a ternary signaling complex may occur in several ways depending on the local binding environment. Using experimental data of endocytosed FGF2 as a constraint, we have also shown evidence of potential multistep processes involved in heparan-sulfate proteoglycans-bound FGF2 release, internalization, and fragment formation in conjunction with the normal metabolism of the proteoglycan.
Narrowline Fluorescence Techniques For Analysis Of Organic Pollutants

Fluorescence line narrowing spectroscopy is a low temperature solid state technique for eliminating site inhomogeneous broadening. Rotationally cooled fluorescence is a gas phase technique for eliminating thermal and rotational broadening. The principles of the two techniques and an evaluation of their sensitivity and selectivity in analytical applications is presented.
Life cycle assessment of a corn stover torrefaction plant integrated with a corn ethanol plant and a coal fired power plant.

Abstract A life cycle assessment (LCA) study was conducted to understand and assess potential greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction benefits of a biomass torrefaction business integrated with other industrial businesses for the use of the excess heat from the torrefaction off-gas volatiles and biocoal. A torrefaction plant processing 30.3 Mg h−1 of corn stover at 17% wet basis (w.b.) moisture content was modeled. The torrefaction plant produced 136,078 Mg y−1 of biocoal at 1.1% w.b. moisture content and 28.1 MW of excess heat energy in the torrefaction off-gas volatiles. At the torrefaction plant gate, the life-cycle GHG emission for the production of biocoal (including corn stover logistics emissions) is 11.35 g MJ−1 carbon dioxide equivalent (dry basis) (i.e., 229.5 kg Mg−1 carbon dioxide equivalent of biocoal at 1.1% w.b. moisture content). The excess heat from the torrefaction plant met 42.8% of the process steam needs of a U.S. Midwest dry-grind corn ethanol plant producing 0.38 hm3 y−1 of denatured ethanol, which results in about 40% reduction in life-cycle GHG emissions for corn ethanol compared to gasoline. Co-firing 10%, 20%, and 30% (energy basis) of biocoal at a coal-fired power plant reduced the life-cycle GHG emissions of electricity generated by 8.5%, 17.0%, and 25.6%, respectively, compared to 100% coal-fired electricity. A sensitivity analysis showed that adding a combined heat and power (CHP) system at the torrefaction plant to meet 100% electricity demand of the torrefaction plant (2.5 MW) could further reduce the GHG emissions for biocoal, corn ethanol, and co-fired electricity.
Sodium lactate affects sensory and objective characteristics of tray-packed broiler chicken breast meat

The objective of this study was to determine the antimicrobial properties of sodium lactate solutions adjusted to various pH values. The effectiveness of sodium lactate increases with increased concentrations; however, there are off-flavor development problems associated with increasing concentrations of sodium lactate above 2.0%. This study evaluated the effects of 2% sodium lactate treatments, adjusted to various pH values, on sensory characteristics, instrumental texture, and microbial populations of tray-packed broiler breast meat. Breast meat was treated with either tap water (pH 7.85) or 2% sodium lactate solutions (pH 7.30, 5.50, 5.00, 4.50, and 4.00) and stored at 2 +/- 1 C for 12 d. Approximately 15% of the panelists reported acidic aftertastes in samples treated with pH 5.00 sodium lactate solutions, and 10% of the panelists reported slight sodium or metallic off-flavor in all samples treated with sodium lactate. Instrumental texture measurements were similar (P > 0.05) for all treatments. Sodium lactate (pH 7.30 and 5.50) enhanced (P < 0.05) cooking yields and retarded the growth of spoilage bacteria (pH 5.50 and 5.00). Due to the development of severe discoloration and intense acidic off-odors and -flavors, testing was not conducted on samples treated with pH 4.50 and 4.00 sodium lactate solutions.
Fosfomycin-Friend or Foe?

(1991). Fosfomycin-Friend or Foe? Pediatric Hematology and Oncology: Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. vii-viii.
Allocation of discrete resource in order transmission hierarchical organization

Abstract Order transmission hierarchical organization is considered in which a decision-maker is situated in the root and executors in the leaves of a tree-like graph representing the structure of the organization. Reliability coefficients of transmission channels depend on quantities of allocated resources. The problem is to allocate a given amount of resource among all channels to maximize the efficiency of organization. Methods developed earlier by the author for continuous resources are extended to discrete resources. The description of algorithms for one-level, two-level and multi-level organizations are included. The methods are illustrated by numerical example.
Light-Induced Plasticity of Synaptic AMPA Receptor Composition in Retinal Ganglion Cells

Light-evoked responses of all three major classes of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are mediated by NMDA receptors (NMDARs) and AMPA receptors (AMPARs). Although synaptic activity at RGC synapses is highly dynamic, synaptic plasticity has not been observed in adult RGCs. Here, using patch-clamp recordings in dark-adapted mouse retina, we report a retina-specific form of AMPAR plasticity. Both chemical and light activation of NMDARs caused the selective endocytosis of GluA2-containing, Ca(2+)-impermeable AMPARs on RGCs and replacement with GluA2-lacking, Ca(2+)-permeable AMPARs. The plasticity was expressed in ON but not OFF RGCs and was restricted solely to the ON responses in ON-OFF RGCs. Finally, the plasticity resulted in a shift in the light responsiveness of ON RGCs. Thus, physiologically relevant light stimuli can induce a change in synaptic receptor composition of ON RGCs, providing a mechanism by which the sensitivity of RGC responses may be modified under scotopic conditions.
RFID opportunities and risks

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an emerging technology that companies can use in many ways. It can increase a company's efficiency and provide benefits to both companies and consumers. But like any new technology, it also presents new risks. And because RFID monitors the movement of inventory and equipment, it may affect your compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanisms of cellular resistance to hydrogen peroxide, hyperoxia, and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal toxicity: the significance of increased catalase activity in H2O2-resistant fibroblasts.

An H2O2-resistant variant (OC14) of the HA1 Chinese hamster fibroblast cell line which demonstrates a 20-fold increase in catalase activity was utilized in the study of mechanisms responsible for cellular resistance to hydrogen peroxide, oxygen, and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal toxicity. HA1 and OC14 cells were treated with 9 mm aminotriazole which resulted in a 60 to 80% reduction in catalase activity. Pretreatment with aminotriazole resulted in significant sensitization to the toxicity of 1-h exposures to exogenously applied H2O2, which was proportional to the reduction in catalase activity. Treatment with aminotriazole produced significant sensitization to the toxicity of 95% O2 after 45 h of O2 exposure but no sensitization to the toxicity of a 1-h exposure to 50 μm 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal. Inhibition of catalase activity by aminotriazole had no effect on the metabolism of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal by either cell line tested. These results support the conclusion that in H2O2-resistant cells, catalase activity is a major determinant of cellular resistance to H2O2 toxicity, whereas catalase activity has a limited role in cellular resistance to an acute exposure to 95% O2 and is unrelated to cellular resistance to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal.
‘It's a full time job being poor’: understanding barriers to diabetes prevention in immigrant communities in the USA

This study explores the social determinants of diabetes in a low-income, Latino, and immigrant neighborhood in a Californian city, emphasizing food environments. We conducted focus groups and semi-structured interviews of a convenience sample of staff and clients at a local non-governmental organization. Eight themes emerged as key barriers to healthy eating: (1) cost of food vis-a-vis income; (2) transportation; (3) language; (4) stigma; (5) immigration status; (6) insufficient formal/informal food assistance; (7) work conditions; and (8) competing basic needs/constraints of poverty. We conclude that the public health and health education rhetoric of ‘individual choice’ is a barrier in itself to understanding the diabetes epidemic, and that without the recognition and understanding of, and intervention upon, socioeconomic, policy, and political barriers to healthy lifestyles, the prevention of diabetes will remain out of reach.
Ultrasensitive cross-correlation electrophoresis on microchip devices

Cross-correlation electrophoresis with fluorescence detection on a microchip device was used to resolve a mixture of 63 pM fluorescein and 70 pM dichlorofluorescein. The signal-to-noise ratios of analyte peaks in a correlogram derived from a 9-bit pseudorandom injection sequence were ∼17 for dichlorofluorescein and ∼6 for fluorescein. In contrast, neither peak was detected in a conventional electropherogram obtained on the microchip. Detection limits estimated from a correlogram derived from the average of 12 7-bit correlograms were 6.5 pM dichlorofluorescein and 21 pM fluorescein. These are the lowest detection limits reported for a microchip separation device using analog detection and the first example of cross-correlation electrophoresis on a monolithic device. The small injection volumes, injection reproducibility, and rapid separations enabled by microchip devices make cross-correlation multiplex injection schemes a viable approach for achieving enhanced sensitivity.
Vassos Argyrou. Anthropology and the Will to Meaning: A Postcolonial Critique. London: Pluto Press, 2002. Vi + 129 pp., notes, references, index.

Working ethnographers know that cultural contradictions often hide in plain sight. We may represent such contradictions in our monographs as deep, dark secrets it has taken an expert to unveil, but such nods to the demands of academic theatre tend to violate the sense in which they are very much visible on the surface of daily life. Argyrou's argument focuses on one such contradiction in the culture of anthropology itself: quite obviously, anthropologists both make a living out of claiming that cultures and people shaped by cultures are different from one another while at the same time attacking those who propound racist and ethnocentric arguments by asserting that at bottom people and cultures are in the most important respects all the same. The burden of Argyrou's short, impressively well-argued monograph is to show that this contradiction is present in all versions of anthropology (Victorian, modern, post-modern) and that it dooms the discipline to a kind of incoherence, at least in theoretical and political terms, if not ethnographic ones.
Iridoid and other glycosides from Penstemon species

Abstract Five new iridoid glucosides and three new monoterpenoid glucosides were identified from Penstemon albidus, P. cyathophorus and P. virens. N
Visualization as integration of heterogeneous processes

In the information age today, we are experiencing an explosion of data and information from a variety of sources unlike anything that the world has seen before. While technology has advanced to keep up with the collection and storage of data, what we lack now is the ability to analyze and understand the meaning behind the data. Traditionally, data mining and data management techniques require the data to be uniform such that a single process can search for knowledge within the data. However, in analysis of complex tasks where knowledge and information need to be pieced together from different sources of data, a new paradigm is required. In this paper, we present a framework of using visual analytical approaches to integrate multiple heterogeneous processes that can each analyze a specific type of data. Under this framework, stand-alone software solutions can focus on specific aspects of the problem based on domain-specific techniques. The framework serves as a visual repository for all the information and knowledge discovered by each individual process, and allows the user to interactively perform sense-making analysis to form a cohesive and comprehensive understanding of the problem at hand. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this framework by applying it to inspecting bridge conditions that utilizes data sources from 2D imagery, 3D LiDAR, and multi-dimensional data based on bridge reports.
Characterization of murine Caraparu Bunyavirus liver infection and immunomodulator-mediated antiviral protection

Abstract A rapid, peripheral disease model utilizing the Bunyavirus , Caraparu, was established in mice for the evaluation of antiviral therapy with immunomodulators. 4–6-week-old B6C3F1 female mice, inoculated intraperitoneally with virus, developed coagulative liver necrosis and died between 4–6 days after infection. This Caraparu disease model was relatively resistant to treatment with immunomodulators, such as ABMP, Ampligen, α-interferon (IFN-α) or β-interferon (IFN-β). However, a significant increase in median survival time (MST) was consistently observed upon treatment with γ-interferon (IFN-γ). The nucleoside analog - ribavirin - was highly effective against Caraparu virus in repeated treatment schedules begun on either day −1, day 0, or day +1 of infection. Ribavirin gave little protection when initiation of treatment was delayed until day +2. However, combined treatment with IFN-γ, starting on day 0 and ribavirin starting on day +2, significantly reduced mortality.
A study of the acid-base balance of fetal sheep and goats.

By means of indwelling plastic catheters the pCO2, pH and bicarbonate levels of the maternal and fetal plasmas have been compared in sheep and goats by repeated sampling during periods up to 24 hr. Comparisons have been made in “steady state” conditions, as well as during and following NH4Cl infusion of the mother. The results demonstrate: (1) that the pCO2 of the blood of the umbilical artery is about 20 mm. Hg higher than the maternal arterial pCO2 in “steady state” conditions; (2) that this difference remains relatively stable despite wide variations in the pCO2 of the maternal arterial blood; (3) that the bicarbonate level of the fetal plasma is virtually independent of the maternal over a 24-hr. period; and (4) in some circumstances the pH's of the maternal and fetal bloods may change in opposite directions.
Photometry of Venus below 2200 Å from the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory-2

Abstract Spectrophotometry of Venus from 2170 to about 1950 A has been obtained by OAO-2 at 10 A resolution. The new data confirm and extend previous indications that the geometric albedo decreases continuously below 2500 A. Secular changes in either the amount or distribution, or both, of absorbing constituents in the upper atmosphere are strongly suggested. A narrow absorption feature is found near 2145 A, confirming an earlier report by Anderson et al. [ J. Atmos. Sci. 26 (1969), 874–888]. Absorption by trace amounts of nitrogen-bearing molecules, including N 2 O, HNO 3 in aqeous solution, and possibly also NO, together with Rayleigh scattering from CO 2 , can account for the variation in albedo below 3200 A, but other explanations are not excluded. For example, H 2 S may contribute to or be responsible for the decrease in albedo below 2500 A.
Anabolic Effects of Ultrasound as Countermeasures of Simulated Microgravity in In-Vitro and In-Vivo Functional Disuse Models

Microgravity (MG) during space flight has been known to cause adverse effect on bone quality. Data collected from studies done on spaceflights show loss of 1–1.6% bone mineral density (BMD) per space-flight-month[1]. Most BMD has been recorded in load-bearing bones [2]. Some studies has considered using drugs and different growth factors to maintain bone mass in microgravity conditions but it can be too expensive to maintain over longer periods of time besides the systematic effects of such treatments [3]. Considering the effects of microgravity are partially attributed to lack of mechanical force on bone tissue, which alters gene expression, reduction in transcription factors and growth factors. Furthermore, lack of gravity effects cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, cytoskeleton polymerization and cellular morphology [4, 5]. Thus to reverse these adverse effects on bone physiology, it is important to provide cells with mechanical stimulus which can provide essential mechanical signal for cells to counter the effects of microgravity. Ultrasound acoustic vibrations can be readily applied in, in vivo and human studies and has shown anabolic effects on osteopenic bone tissue [6]. Furthermore, ultrasound is a non-invasive and more target specific treatment relative to cyclic strain and vibration. The objective of this study is to see effects of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on disused bone model and osteogenic activity of osteoblast cells cultures in simulated microgravity. This will help us understand that effects of ultrasound on microgravity and mechanotransduction pathway responsible for anabolic effect on bone cells.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Renal Cooling Device for Use in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Over 58,000 patients suffer from renal cell carcinoma annually in the U.S. Treatment for this cancer often requires surgical removal of the cancerous tissue in a partial nephrectomy procedure. In open renal surgery, the kidney is placed on ice to increase allowable ischemia time; however, there is no widely accepted method for reducing kidney temperature during minimally invasive surgery. A device has been designed, prototyped, and evaluated to perform effective renal cooling during minimally invasive kidney surgery to reduce damage due to extended ischemia. The device is a fluid-containing bag with foldable cooling surfaces that wrap around the organ. It is deployed through a 15 mm trocar, wrapped around the kidney, and secured using bulldog clamps. The device then fills with an ice slurry and remains on the kidney for up to 20 min. The ice slurry is then removed from the device and the device is retracted from the body. Modeling results and tests of the prototype in a simulated lab environment show that the device successfully cools porcine kidneys from 37°C to 20°C in 6–20 min.
Sparse methods for biomedical data

Following recent technological revolutions, the investigation of massive biomedical data with growing scale, diversity, and complexity has taken a center stage in modern data analysis. Although complex, the underlying representations of many biomedical data are often sparse. For example, for a certain disease such as leukemia, even though humans have tens of thousands of genes, only a few genes are relevant to the disease; a gene network is sparse since a regulatory pathway involves only a small number of genes; many biomedical signals are sparse or compressible in the sense that they have concise representations when expressed in a proper basis. Therefore, finding sparse representations is fundamentally important for scientific discovery. Sparse methods based on the '1 norm have attracted a great amount of research efforts in the past decade due to its sparsity-inducing property, convenient convexity, and strong theoretical guarantees. They have achieved great success in various applications such as biomarker selection, biological network construction, and magnetic resonance imaging. In this paper, we review state-of-the-art sparse methods and their applications to biomedical data.
Effect of Restricted Grazing on Hindgut pH and Fluid Balance

Abstract Six mature idle geldings were used in a crossover design to determine the effects of restricted grazing on hindgut pH and fluid balance. Initially, horses were randomly assigned to a control group (CTRL: n = 3) having access to warm-season grass pasture continuously, or a restricted grazing (RG: n = 3) group having access to pasture for 12 consecutive hours (1900-700 hours) per 24-hour period for 7 days; they were then reassigned to the opposite treatment for an additional 7 days (i.e., CTRL: n = 6; RG: n = 6). Fecal samples were collected from each horse at 700 hours on day 7 of each period and analyzed for pH and dry matter (DM) as indicators of hindgut pH and fluid balance, respectively. Jugular blood samples were also collected at 700, 1300, and 1900 hours on day 7 and were analyzed for plasma protein as an indicator of systematic fluid balance. Fecal pH and DM data were analyzed using a paired t test. Plasma protein data were analyzed as a repeated-measures design. The mean (± SE) difference between CTRL and RG for fecal pH (.01 ± .16) and fecal DM (.68 ± .6%) was not significant ( P = .93 and .52, respectively). Mean plasma protein concentrations were not affected by treatment or by treatment × sample time interaction, but tended to increase ( P = .07) during the sampling period regardless of treatment. In conclusion, 12 hours of grazing restriction followed by 12 hours of grazing did not negatively impact hindgut pH or fluid balance.
Attitudes toward sexual abuse: Sex differences and construct validity

Abstract An “Attitudes toward Sexual Abuse” scale is introduced, and its reliability and validity in a study of university students is described. Attitudes supportive of sexual contact with children were associated with variables previously linked to sexual interest in children: male gender, use of pornography, greater numbers of sex partners, and greater endorsement of a scale measuring acceptance of sexual aggression against women. Such beliefs predicted both male and female university students' self-reported interest in having sex with a child, given the absence of detection or punishment, suggesting the potential importance of socially transmitted attitudes in the etiology of sexually abusive behavior.
An astronomy camera for low background applications in the 1.0 to 2.5 mu m spectral region

A description is given of a low-background astronomy camera system based on a short wavelength (1.0-2.5 mu m) 128*128 focal plane array. The camera is designed to accept either a HgCdTe array for the 1-2.5 mu m spectral region or an InSb array for the 3-5 mu m spectral region. A cryogenic folded optical system is utilized to control excess stray light along with a cold eight-position filter wheel for spectral filtering. The camera head and electronics will also accept a 256*256 focal plane. Engineering evaluation of the system and two engineering runs at the JPL Table Mountain Observatory have been completed. System design, engineering performance, and sample imagery are presented. >
Catatonia After Cerebral Hypoxia: Do the Usual Treatments Apply?

Background Neurologic deterioration occurring days to weeks after a cerebral hypoxic event accompanied by diffuse white matter demyelination is called delayed posthypoxic leukoencephalopathy (DPHL). Manifestations of DPHL are diverse and include dementia, gait disturbance, incontinence, pyramidal tract signs, parkinsonism, chorea, mood and thought disorders, akinetic mutism, and rarely catatonia. Methods We report a case of malignant catatonia in a patient diagnosed with DPHL that was refractory to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and review the literature on catatonia in DPHL. Results The patient was a 56-year-old woman with schizoaffective disorder who was admitted with catatonia 2 weeks after hospitalization for drug overdose and respiratory failure. Her catatonic symptoms did not respond to treatment of lorazepam, amantadine, methylphenidate, or 10 sessions of bilateral ECT at maximum energy. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging revealed extensive periventricular white matter lesions not present on admission scans, and she was diagnosed with DPHL. Discussion No treatment for DPHL has been proven to be widely effective. Hyperbaric oxygen treatments may reduce the rate of development, and symptom improvement has been reported with stimulants and other psychotropic agents. Review of literature reveals rare success with GABAergic agents for catatonia after cerebral hypoxia and no cases successfully treated with ECT. There are 7 case reports of neurologic decompensation during ECT treatment after a cerebral hypoxic event. Conclusion Caution is advised when considering ECT for catatonia when delayed sequelae of cerebral hypoxia are on the differential diagnosis, as there is a dearth of evidence to support this treatment approach.
Calculation, Community and Cues Public Opinion on European Integration

This article summarizes and extends the main lines of theorizing on public opinion on European integration. We test theories of economic calculus and communal identity in a multi-level analysis of Eurobarometer data. Both economic calculus and communal identity are influential, but the latter is stronger than the former. We theorize how the political consequences of identity are contested and shaped - that is to say, politically cued - in national contexts. The more national elites are divided, the more citizens are cued to oppose European integration, and this effect is particularly pronounced among citizens who see themselves as exclusively national. A model that synthesizes economic, identity, and cue theory explains around one-quarter of variation at the individual level and the bulk of variation at the national and party levels.
Types and locations of cholinergic receptor-like molecules in muscle fibres.

Autoradiography in the electron microscope has specified further the sites and membrane density of the acetylcholine receptors at single endplates. Other types of receptor-like molecules are abundant in muscles but can be distinguished from these.
Matter-Wave Interferometry with Phase Fluctuating Bose-Einstein Condensates

Elongated Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) exhibit strong spatial phase fluctuations even well below the BEC transition temperature. We demonstrate that atom interferometers using such condensates are robust against phase fluctuations; i.e., the relative phase of the split condensate is reproducible despite axial phase fluctuations. However, larger phase fluctuations limit the coherence time, especially in the presence of some asymmetries in the two wells of the interferometer.
Flipping of the Ribosomal A-Site Adenines Provides a Basis for tRNA Selection

Ribosomes control the missense error rate of ~10(-4) during translation though quantitative contributions of individual mechanistic steps of the conformational changes yet to be fully determined. Biochemical and biophysical studies led to a qualitative tRNA selection model in which ribosomal A-site residues A1492 and A1493 (A1492/3) flip out in response to cognate tRNA binding, promoting the subsequent reactions, but not in the case of near-cognate or non-cognate tRNA. However, this model was recently questioned by X-ray structures revealing conformations of extrahelical A1492/3 and domain closure of the decoding center in both cognate and near-cognate tRNA bound ribosome complexes, suggesting that the non-specific flipping of A1492/3 has no active role in tRNA selection. We explore this question by carrying out molecular dynamics simulations, aided with fluorescence and NMR experiments, to probe the free energy cost of extrahelical flipping of 1492/3 and the strain energy associated with domain conformational change. Our rigorous calculations demonstrate that the A1492/3 flipping is indeed a specific response to the binding of cognate tRNA, contributing 3kcal/mol to the specificity of tRNA selection. Furthermore, the different A-minor interactions in cognate and near-cognate complexes propagate into the conformational strain and contribute another 4kcal/mol in domain closure. The recent structure of ribosome with features of extrahelical A1492/3 and closed domain in near-cognate complex is reconciled by possible tautomerization of the wobble base pair in mRNA-tRNA. These results quantitatively rationalize other independent experimental observations and explain the ribosomal discrimination mechanism of selecting cognate versus near-cognate tRNA.
Nitrogen solubility and aluminum nitride precipitation in liquid iron alloys containing nickel and aluminum

The solubility of nitrogen in liquid iron-base Fe-Ni-Al alloys has been measured up to the solubility limit for formation of aluminum nitride using the Sieverts’ method. Measurements were conducted over the temperature range from 1843 to 2023 K and aluminum concentration range from 1.5 to 3.0 wt pct Al. The effect of nickel additions was determined at 2, 5 and 10 wt pct Ni. The cross interaction parameter describing the effect of nickel and aluminum on the activity coefficient of nitrogen in iron was determined. The first and second order effects of nickel on the activity coefficient of aluminum also were determined. The solubility product of aluminum nitride increases with increasing aluminum content and increasing temperature. Addition of nickel decreases the solubility products of aluminum nitride in lower aluminum content alloys. However, the effect of the cross interaction termeAlNiAl becomes significant with increasing aluminum content and compensates for the effects of the first and second order nickel-nitrogen and nickelaluminum interaction terms. Therefore the effect of nickel additions show little effect on the solubility products of aluminum nitride in higher aluminum alloys.
Belief Instability as a Mediating Variable in Opinion Change: The Effects of Attack Discrepancy

According to the uncertainty model of opinion change, a persuasive message induces instability in the recipient's belief system. Opinion change is then a function of the degree of instability which has been induced. Subjects possess a repertoire of arguments to bolster beliefs which support their own attitudes, and another repertoire to refute messages advocating opposite beliefs; they are less well-prepared to counter messages which are only moderately discrepant, and such messages should consequently induce the most instability. Thus there is a curvilinear relationship between attack discrepancy and belief instability or uncertainty, as measured by inconsistencies in the ranking of belief-relevant statements. The relationship between instability and opinion change is positive and linear. Data from an experiment using messages of various degrees of extremeness opposing the use of automobile seat-belts supported these hypotheses. Furthermore, subjects whose own attitudes had been previously made salient showed more uncertainty after a mildly discrepant and less after a severely discrepant message. The uncertainty model, which is based upon an objectively measured intervening variable, provides an unusually exact and testable starting point for hypothesis generation in the field of attitude change.
Radiative lifetimes of the 3p 4P and 4f 2Fo levels of C II

Abstract Using C2H+2 and CO+ ion beams (energies ≅ 30 keV), we produced a time-resolved spectrum of C+ downbeam from a He gas-jet target. From measured decay curves of spectral lines originating from the 3p4P laser levels and the astrophysically important 4f 2Fo levels, we obtained their mean radiative lifetimes (10.9±0.4 and 4.4±0.2 ns, respectively).
Surface Charge of Erythrocytes in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria

The electrophoretic mobility of erythrocytes from 3 patients with PNH was measured by standard techniques. Erythrocyte mobility is a measure of the net negative surface charge of these cells. In each of the 3 patients studied the mobility was significantly increased over normal cells indicating that there is an increase in negative surface charge on PNH erythrocytes. Following the Ham's and sucrose lysis tests, surviving cells showed mean mobilities that were not statistically different from normal cells. This suggests that these cells with higher surface charge are vulnerable to complement lysis.
An Overview of Normal Theory Structural Measurement Error Models

Summary This paper gives an introduction and overview to the often under-used measurement error model. The purpose is to provide a simple summary of problems that arise from measurement error and of the solutions that have been proposed. We start by describing how measurement error models occur in real-world situations. Then we proceed with defining the measurement error model, initially introducing the multivariate form of the model, and then, starting with the simplest form of the model thoroughly discuss its features and solutions to the problems introduced due to measurement error. We discuss higher-dimensional and more advanced forms of the model and give a brief numerical illustration.
Effect of plasma proteins on the dynamic π—A characteristics of saturated phospholipid films

Pure component and binary mixed films of the saturated phospholipids dl-α-dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPL) and dl-α-dipalmitoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DPPE) and the plasma proteins fibrinogen and albumin were investigated in terms of dynamic surface pressure-area (π—A) characteristics at 23 and 37°C. The primary conclusions of the studies are: (1) Neither bovine fibrinogen nor albumin significantly alters the maximum surface tension lowering (πmax) achieved by DPL or DPPE at 23 or 37°C. These proteins do, however, expand the π—A isotherms of the saturated phospholipids at low surface pressure and large surface area. (2) Surface initial conditions such as initial surfactant concentration and spreading order can affect the dynamic compression-expansion cycle π—A behavior for binary mixed films of plasma protein-saturated phospholipid, most substantially at large film area. (3) The dynamic surface tension lowering and respreading characteristics of DPL and DPPE films at 37°C and high humidity show correspondence with previously published results at lower temperature in terms of both πmax and nonreproducible hysteresis on successive cycles past collapse. Thus, at physiologically relevant temperatures and humidities, pure DPL lowers water surface tension to <1 dyn/cm, but is continually depleted at the interface if compressed past collapse on successive cycles.
Familial Predictors of Sibling and Romantic-Partner Conflict Resolution: Comparing Late Adolescents from Intact and Divorced Families.

Abstract The present study examined whether predictors of romantic-partner conflict may vary as a function of family structure. Using a cross-sectional design, we tested a mediation model of conflict resolution behaviours among late adolescents from intact ( n = 185 ) and divorced ( n = 87 ) families. Adolescents rated conflict resolution behaviours in five dyadic relationships: interparental, mother–adolescent, father–adolescent, sibling, and romantic partner. Mother–adolescent and father–adolescent conflict resolution behaviours mediated the relationship between interparental and sibling conflict resolution. Moreover, both mother–adolescent and sibling conflict resolution behaviours mediated the relationship between interparental and romantic-partner conflict resolution behaviours. This model was supported for both positive and negative behaviours, and it applied equally well to adolescents from intact and divorced families. Results are discussed in the context of social learning theories and support conflict resolution behaviours within the family spilling over into romantic relationships for adolescents from both intact and divorced families.