cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assay To Screen for Molecules That Associate with Alzheimer's Related β-Amyloid Fibrils

Small molecules that bind to aggregated forms of Abeta peptides show promise as potential in vivo labeling agents for the diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease. A major challenge in developing potential imaging agents that target Abeta is to rapidly identify and evaluate the association of molecules with insoluble deposits of aggregated Abeta peptides. This paper describes a simple, parallel method to rapidly screen libraries of molecules for their ability to associate with fibrils formed from synthetic Abeta peptides by monitoring their ability to inhibit the interaction of a monoclonal anti-Abeta IgG with these fibrils. We demonstrate that this assay can detect the association of small molecules with Abeta fibrils at concentrations of small molecule in the nanomolar to millimolar range. By comparing results from the screening of a small set of 30 compounds, we illustrated that this assay can rapidly analyze the relative affinity of small molecules for Abeta fibrils and identified eight compounds that can bind to Abeta fibrils at <20 microM concentrations. Significant advantages of this assay are (1) the ability to screen structurally diverse molecules without requiring them to have specific spectroscopic or radiolabeled properties, (2) the ability to estimate the percentage of the surface of the fibrils covered by the small molecules, and (3) the ability to detect the association of small molecules that potentially bind to different sites along the fibril axis. This assay also has minimal requirements for equipment or specialized facilities and should, therefore, be useful for both academic and industrial laboratories.
IR imaging of integrated circuit power transistors during operation

An infrared microscope was used to study the surface temperature profiles of power transistor arrays in integrated circuits (IC) during operation. Each transistor array was set to conduct current for 20-50 microseconds. The integration time of the IR camera is adjusted to be between 2 and 10 microseconds. A thorough study of the camera's timing characteristics allows its precise synchronization to transient thermal events in the transistor arrays. Progressively adding incremental delay times to the synchronization pulses allows the complete characterization of the thermal transients as a function of time and location. The IR microscope timing characteristics were determined by imaging an incandescent lamp filament during pulsed operation. Examples of heat pulses in a lamp filament and power transistors are given.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
N–O versus N–N bond activation in reaction of N2O with carbon cluster ions: Experimental and ab initio studies of the effects of geometric and electronic structure

We report a combined experimental and theoretical study of the reaction of small carbon cluster cations with N2O aimed at understanding the reaction mechanism and how it is affected by the electronic and geometric structure of the C+n reactants. Cross sections for reaction of C+n (n=3–12) with N2O were measured over a collision energy range from 0.1–10 eV, using a guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometer. Ab initio calculations were used to examine the structure and energetics of reactant and product species. Small clusters, which are linear, react with no activation barrier, resulting in either oxide or nitride formation. The branching between oxide and nitride channels shows a strong even–odd alternation, with even clusters preferentially forming nitrides. This appears to be correlated with an even/odd alternation in the ionization potential of the CnN. The larger, monocyclic C+n have activation barriers for reaction, and a completely different product distribution. Secondary reactions of the primary ox...
Joan's Education

As she entered the room, Joan saw a too-thin girl stretched out on the exam table with fuchsia hair peeking out from the hood of an oversized sweatshirt. A fleeting reflection passed through Joan's...
Two applications of a numerical approach of heat transfer process within rock beds

Abstract A general method for solving the differential equations describing the heat transfer process within a rock bed is presented. A numerical model accounting for secondary phenomena such as thermal losses and conduction effect is developed. The results of the study are presented in the form of curves and empirical equations. Two applications of this theoretical model are then investigated. One is the elaboration of a new calculation method for the volumetric convective heat transfer coefficient using the compared results of theoretical modeling and experimental tests. The second application is a design method for solar applications of rock-bed storage with determination of optimal values for parameters such as air velocity, particle diameter and geometrical aspects of the storage unit.
The thermodynamic functions of hydrogen in solid solutions of the group V metals Nb, Ta and V

Abstract The large volume of available data for the isotherms characterizing the dissolution of H from H 2 -gas into the Group V metals Nb, Ta and V has been reviewed. Both the temperature and composition variation of the partial molar and relative partial molar enthalpies and entropies have been discussed in terms of theoretical models in which the H-atoms in solution can possess degrees of translational freedom. The relative invariance of the relative partial enthalpy Δ H u to temperature and the change in H u with temperature are in accord with this concept. The variation of H u with solute composition has been used in conjunction with recent elastic data for HNb, HTa and HV solid solutions to discuss the form of the HH interaction in these systems.
Time Course and Degree of Hyperinflation with Metronome-Paced Tachypnea in COPD Patients

In COPD patients, tachypnea should increase (dynamic) hyperinflation by shortening expiratory time. We developed a method to evaluate the time course and degree of dynamic hyperinflation during metronome-paced tachypnea. Fourteen patients with stable COPD (FEV1 43 ± 13% predicted) were studied. Inspiratory capacity (IC) was measured breathing through a flow transducer. Subjects paced their respiratory rate (fR) at 20/min, 30/min and 40/min for 60-second periods in response to audible tones generated by a computer. IC measurements were obtained at baseline and after 30 and 60 seconds at each fR. End-tidal carbon dioxide was monitored and fR was allowed to return to baseline between periods of tachypnea. Tachypnea produced reductions in IC of 200 ± 240 ml, 380 ± 330 ml and 540 ± 300 ml after 30 seconds at 20/min, 30/min and 40/min, respectively. IC reduction at 60 seconds was similar to 30 seconds for each fR. In patients with moderate-to-severe COPD, the dynamic hyperinflation induced by metronome-paced ta...
Robust control by two Lyapunov functions

A new method of designing a robust control law is proposed for a general class of non-linear or linear systems with bounded uncertainties. The method uses the property that the Lyapunov function is not unique for a stable or stabilizable system. It is shown that the proposed control law normally guarantees the stability of the system if there are two Lyapunov functions whose null sets have a trivial intersection. The null set of a Lyapunov function is defined to be the set in state space in which the product of the transpose of the system input matrix and the gradient of the Lyapunov function is equal to zero. The robust control results impose no restriction on the structure and size of the input-unrelated uncertainties. Moreover, it is shown that asymptotic stabilization of the nominal system is not necessarily required in this method.
Aspects of variance and covariance analysis with cultural inheritance

Abstract Linear Gaussian models of genotypic, phenotypic, and environmental transmission are studied. The nature of equilibrium assumptions under various modes of assortative mating are discussed with particular emphasis on expected correlations between relatives. Assorting models based only on phenotype, or only on environment, are compared with those in which the mating correlation structure is more complex. Explicit values in terms of transmission parameters and within individual covariances are given for the usual correlations between relatives. The possibility of decomposing these in terms of correlations involving adoptive families is indicated.
Measuring patient attributes and engagement in treatment

Abstract Brief but comprehensive instruments measuring patient motivation, psychosocial functioning, treatment process, social network support, and services received are needed for monitoring drug abuse treatment delivery and patient progress. Combining this information across patients within a program also provides useful indicators about institutional composition and functioning. Consequently, the same assessment tools can be used to identify areas where treatment protocols need to be changed, and to monitor improvements following such changes. The Texas Christian University (TCU) Client Evaluation of Self and Treatment (CEST) 1 1More information (including intervention manuals and data collection instruments that can be downloaded without charge) is available on the Internet at www.ibr.tcu.edu and electronic mail can be sent to ibr@tcu.edu. is a 144-item self-rating instrument that includes 16 scales measuring patient functioning and treatment perceptions. Psychometric properties (including reliability and construct validity) of the scales are examined in this article, based on patient samples drawn from 87 programs that participated in a series of staff training workshops. Acceptable reliabilities (.70 or above) were generally reported, and construct validity was also demonstrated (although the confirmatory factor analyses suggested some item pools could represent more than one factor). Prediction analyses were conducted using selected scales from each measurement domain to illustrate their sensitivity to treatment program contexts.
A Duplex Mechanism-Based Model for the Interaction Between Chromate Ions and the Hydrated Oxide Film on Aluminum Alloys

In order to understand more clearly the nature of the anodic film formed on aluminum and its alloys, and the mechanism of inhibition of corrosion by chromates, a novel investigation has been made on the anodic film formed on AA1060 using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The goal has been to elucidate whether the interaction of CrO 2- 4 on Al alloy surfaces is in certain aspects analogous to that of MoO 2- 4 on stainless steel surfaces and investigate whether a bipolar mechanism is applicable to aluminum surfaces. The aluminum hydroxide film was freshly formed on the metal surface and exposed to chromate and chloride solutions. Both chromate and chloride ions were observed to lead to a structural change in the hydrated aluminum anodic film consistent with deprotonation. Although both lead to deprotonation, exposure to chromate resulted in a structural transformation to an oxide layer associated with higher corrosion resistance and exposure to chloride lead to the formation of an oxyhydroxide film that is associated with a lower corrosion resistance. When the alloy was exposed to chromate prior to chloride exposure, the adsorbed chromate acted as a fixed negative charge substantially inhibiting chloride ingress. A reaction scheme, involving the formation of aluminum hydroxychlorides, has been proposed for deprotonation due to chloride. Deprotonation by chromate is explained for the first time in terms of bipolarity. Evidence suggests that two models may be operative on the surface of roughened AA106.
Cognitive and adaptive development of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex: A retrospective, longitudinal investigation

Abstract Objective The aim of the work described here was to systematically analyze the developmental trajectory of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Methods A retrospective longitudinal chart review was performed, selecting patients who received multiple neuropsychological assessments. Intellectual/Developmental Quotients, Adaptive Behavior Composite scores, and clinical data were collected. On available EEGs, interictal epileptiform discharges were counted. Results Sixty-six (18%) patients with TSC received multiple cognitive and adaptive development assessments. The mean intelligence of this study group remained relatively stable, albeit variable. Significant decline in adaptive functioning was observed, associated with lower age at seizure onset. Patients who underwent neurosurgery prior to baseline testing showed cognitive improvement. Developmental declines were significantly associated with increased numbers of antiepileptic drugs, with a trend toward association with mutation type and interictal epileptiform discharges. Conclusion This study suggests that the developmental course of patients with TSC may be altered by epilepsy comorbidity and neurosurgery, underlining the need for early and effective interventions in this population.
Entity-Relationship modeling revisited

In this position paper, we argue the modern applications require databases to capture and enforce more domain semantics than traditional applications. We also argue that the best way to incorporate additional semantics into database systems is by capturing the added information in conceptual models and then using it for database design. In this light, we revisit Entity-Relationship models and investigate ways in which such models could be extended to play a role in the process. Inspired by a paper by Rafael Camps Pare ([2]), we suggest avenues of research in the issue.
On modelling the function of sympathetic ventricular augumentor fibres.

A mathematical model of the function of sympathetic neural terminations in ventricular tissue is developed by analogy with various interneural and neuromuscular juctions. The model characterises the ventricular neuromuscular junction in terms of two subsystems—a neurotransmitter release mechanism and a ventricular contraction mechanism. The output of the transmitter release mechanism is the noradrenaline concentrationNE(t) in a lumped steady-state behaviour that mimics the data of Rosenbleuth (1932) and a realistic dynamic response to multiple stimuli of frequencyfs. The ventricular contraction mechanism in this study is based on an extension of an existing functional model of ventricular mechanics for the denervated heart (Greeneet al., 1973) to a consideration of various states of positive inotropic intervention. Overall, this study results in a model of ventricular mechanics that reflects changes in inotropic state, end-diastolic volume (preload) and time.
Innovative Technology Development for Safe Excavation

Serious injuries and costly damages caused by excavators hitting underground utilities are constantly in the headlines of the news media. The accidents sometimes result in the death of one or more persons. Thus, excavation represents a dangerous operation that has to be executed with care. The Construction Automation and Robotics Laboratory at North Carolina State University has been searching for a technology to help avoid these types of accidents. A prototype of the active metal detection and tracking system has been developed using a nontraditional approach. The system generates and transmits its own magnetic impact and detects the coupling effect with any buried utility line in its detection range. It is installed directly on the excavating equipment and integrated with its operation. Experiments have been carried out with this system and the results are promising. The work deliberated in this paper presents an ongoing effort to develop an effective and reliable system that can be attached to any type...
Trends in Interdisciplinary and Integrative Graduate Training: An NSF IGERT Example

In a report entitled Reshaping the Graduate Education of Scientists and Engineers (National Academy of Sciences, 1995), the Committee on Science, Engineering, and Public Policy proposed a modified PhD training model that retains an emphasis on intensive research experiences, while incorporating additional experiences to prepare graduates for an increasingly diverse job market. The National Science Foundation (NSF) subsequently instituted the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship (IGERT) program to foster interdisciplinary training of doctoral students. Faculty in kinesiology graduate programs are often well positioned to contribute to such interdisciplinary training programs. We highlight an example of such a program, specifically the NSF IGERT program on Musculoskeletal and Neural Adaptations in Form and Function at Arizona State University. Both benefits and challenges of IGERT participation are considered.
Conflict, learning, and Piaget: Comments on Zimmerman and Blom's “Toward an empirical test of the role of cognitive conflict in learning”

Abstract A brief historical account dealing with the concept of psychic conflict is first presented, followed by an examination of Piaget's equilibrium/equilibration model and the relevance of the concept of conflict to that model. A critical analysis of B. J. Zimmerman and D. E. Blom (Developmental Review, 1983, 3, 18–38) is then presented, after which suggestions are made regarding future directions research efforts pertaining to Piaget's conflict/learning formulation might fruitfully take.
Leading a culture of change and innovation

Hrabowski, the longtime president of the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) details the culture change initiatives that were necessary in his institution for increasing minority participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. The Meyerhoff Scholars Program, instituted in 1989, partnered the school with Baltimore philanthropist Robert Meyerhoff and national agencies and foundations. The program initially focused on developing research careers in science and engineering for African American males, and later “broadened to include women, other minority students, and majority students interested in diversity issues, and it has been widely recognized as a national model in preparing students for research careers.”
Use of an Air Process Control Trainer to Teach PID Control

In the Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) program at Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), all bachelor degree students are required to take a course in Instrumentation. This course includes material on measuring and controlling mechanical parameters such as temperature, pressure and flow. Students are taught the basis of feedback control systems, primarily proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. The MET approach is physical, rather than the mathematical approach favored by electrical engineering technology. Such a pedagogical method relies on laboratory equipment and experiments whereby the features of PID control may be properly demonstrated. As an example, the student observes how different PID settings affect the fan speed in the control of air flow through a duct. Through the support of an ILI grant from the National Science Foundation, the MET program was able to purchase six Air Process Control Trainers to be used with personal computers supplied by the MET department. These units are used to control air speed and temperature in forced air flow through an instrumented duct. This paper will describe the equipment, the experimental procedure utilized, and the results, with a summary of the benefits to the students.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Nixon and the strategy of avoidance

A synthesis of the rhetorical strategies employed by the Nixon campaign indicates that campaign's dominant task was avoidance. The essay examines the implications of that strategy on humanitarian and pragmatic grounds.
Normal and mutant glycine transfer RNAs.

THE glycine-specific tRNAs of E. coli can be grouped into three subspecies which are separated by chromatography on benzoylated DEAE cellulose (BDC): tRNAGly1 (GGG), tRNAGly2 (GGA/G) and tRNAGly3 (GGU/C)1,2. The tRNAGly1 and tRNAGly2 are specified by the genes, glyU and glyT, respectively, which have been located at 55 and 77 minutes on the E. coli chromosome. Suppressors of tryptophan A gene (trpA) missense mutations and partial diploid strains have been used extensively to characterize the glycine tRNA structural genes (Table 1)1–3. A common property of these suppressor mutations is that the altered tRNAGly is no longer aminoacylated at the normal rate by the glycyl tRNA synthetase (GRS). When ordinary loading conditions are used virtually none of the suppressor tRNA species are amino-acylated. These studies have shown that single gene copies are normally present at the glyT and glyU loci.
Changes in whole tissue biosynthesis of γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) in basal ganglia of the dystonia (dtAlb) mouse

Abstract The mouse mutant dystonia musculorum shows many of the symptoms of of human dystonics. In this study whole tissue samples of mutant striatum and substantia nigra showed almost 50% less γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) biosynthetic capacity than controls of the same inbred strain. Hypothalamic values were unchanged. The defect appears to be one of substrate localization, since both crude extract enzyme activity and the fractional conversion of glutamate to GABA were unaffected by the mutation. When tissue is disrupted, high-affinity synaptosomal uptake to glutamate does not appear to be affected; therefore an endogenous inhibitor of glutamate transport is postulated for the mutant.
Viscous cavity growth in ceramics under compressive loads

The cavity growth behavior of liquid phase sintered ceramics containing a continuous, amorphous grain boundary phase and subjected to compressive loads is examined. Based on the assumption that under compressive loads the creep-induced cavities nucleate and grow on grain boundaries which are approximately parallel to the loading axis, it is deduced that the local tensile stress which drives cavity growth in the viscous grain boundary film is likely induced as the result of sliding in the adjacent grain boundaries and, for compatibility reasons, controlled by the constraints and creep behavior of the matrix. On this basis, a viscous cavity growth model is developed by extending the analysis of Raj and Dang to compressive loading conditions through the incorporation of Raj and Ashby's grain boundary sliding analysis and Dyson's concept of constrained cavity growth. The present model is used to predict the sizes and shapes of evolving cavities as a function of creep strain. The predicted results are discussed and compared with small-angle neutron scattering measurements of hot-pressed SiC.
The resetting response of ventricular tachycardia to single and double extrastimuli: Implications for an excitable gap☆

Abstract To evaluate the influence of local tissue refractoriness and delay in intervening tissue on the ability of single ventricular extrastimuli to reset and characterize a resetting response pattern in ventricular tachycardia (VT), single ventricular extrastimuli were delivered during 81 VTs and double ventricular extrastimuli in 45 of the 81 VTs. Resetting of VT was recognized as a less than fully compensatory pause after stimulation and was seen in 43 of 81 VTs (53%) with single ventricular extrastimuli and 35 of 45 (78%) with double ventricular extrastimuli. Double ventricular extrastimuli reset 16 VTs not reset by single ventricular extrastimuli. The return cycle, the interval from the extrastimulus to the first VT beat after extrastimuli, has 1 of 3 distinct response patterns: flat, increasing, and flat plus increasing. In 19 VTs, resetting was seen with both single ventricular extrastimuli and double ventricular extrastimuli; 4 flat responses with single ventricular extrastimuli became flat plus increasing with double ventricular extrastimuli. All other patterns were unchanged. In the 19 VTs reset by both single and double ventricular extrastimuli, the estimate of both the total reset zone (94 ± 36 vs 56 ± 32 ms) and the flat portion of the reset zone (52 ± 42 vs 42 ±28 ms) was significantly longer with double ventricular extrastimuli (p
New techniques in ultraviolet astronomical polarimetry: wide-field imaging and far-ultraviolet spectropolarimetry

Two sounding rockets payloads under development at the Space Astronomy Laboratory are intended to explore different forms of ultraviolet astronomical polarimetry as a follow-up to the successful mission of the Wisconsin Ultraviolet Photo-Polarimeter Experiment (WUPPE). The unknown territory of diffuse-object ultraviolet polarimetry is to be explored by the Wide- Field Imaging Survey Polarimeter (WISP). WISP is a quite unusual integrated fast telescope/polarimeter optimized for the wavelengths 135 - 260 nm. The first WISP flight is scheduled for Fall 1993, targeting the Pleiades reflection nebula. Just in its early development is another sounding rocket payload, the Far-Ultraviolet Spectropolarimeter. This instrument is to have a resolution of better than 0.1 nm and a spectral coverage from 105 to 145 nm. It will consist of a 0.4 m parabolic primary with polarimetric optics at the prime focus and a far ultraviolet spectrometer. The polarimetric analyzer will be a thin stressed-LiF waveplate, followed by a diamond Brewster-angle polarizer.
Does injection therapy produce tolerance or immunity?: Hyposensitization considered as the production of specific acquired tolerance

Abstract The hypothesis is presented that hyposensitization of allergic patients with antigen therapy is analogous to the production of specific acquired immunologic tolerance. The similarities between these processes are briefly discussed. The hypothesis raises questions about hyposensitization therapy which are capable of experimental exploration.
The Occurrence of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Objective: To identify the incidence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients treated for head and neck cancer. Obstructive sleep apnea is a relatively common and highly morbid condition that affects 9.1% of male and 4% of female middle-aged adults. 1 Patients who have been successfully treated for head and neck cancer may often have a partially obstructed upper airway which is functional during the day, but collapses during sleep. Study Design/ Methods: Twenty-four patients successfully treated for tumors of the tongue-base, pharynx, or supraglottic larynx were enrolled. Through OSA-related questionnaires, physical examination, and polysomnography, the incidence of OSA in this patient population was determined and compared with that of the general population. Results: The incidence of OSA (91.7%) in this head and neck cancer patient population was found to be significantly (P = .001) higher than that of the general population. (In a random sampling of middle-aged adult males between the ages of 30 and 60 years old with a respiratory disturbance index (RDI) >15, the prevalence was previously reported to be 9.1%. 1 ) Sixteen of 24 patients (72.7%) had clinically defined symptoms of sleep apnea. Ten of 24 patients (41.7%) received radiation therapy; all had an RDI >15. Eleven of the 14 patients (78.5%) who did not receive radiation therapy also had an RDI >15. Eight patients (33.3%) continue to regularly use continuous positive airway pressure with significant improvement in symptoms. Conclusions: Identification and treatment of OSA may be an important factor in improving quality of life for patients with head and neck cancer.
Assessing the effect of uncertainty in intracavitary electrode position on endocardial potential estimates

The aim of the simulation study is to determine the effect of uncertainty in intracavitary probe electrode position on the accuracy of estimated endocardial potentials. Intracavitary probe position uncertainty is simulated by randomly moving an idealized probe surface about the center of an idealized left ventricular endocardial surface. These random deviations represent possible probe locations that are incorporated as correlated noise. An optimum inverse transfer coefficient matrix, relating intracavitary potentials to endocardial potentials, is computed and subsequently used to calculate the best linear estimate of the true endocardial potentials. These simulation results imply that position uncertainty of a multielectrode, intracavitary probe can be a major source of error in estimating endocardial potentials from intracavitary potentials. >
Approximate determination of periodic solutions of a class of non-linear differential equations

Abstract In this paper a special technique is presented for the approximate representation of periodic solutions for a class of second order non-linear differential equations of the form x + x + g(x) = a sin ωt. Here g(x) is Lipschitz continuous, bounded and of saturation type. Our method is to approximate g(x) arbitrarily closely by a multi-step relay and then solve the resulting multi-step problem. In an earlier paper [2], the authors have derived an explicit representation for a harmonic solution of the multi-step problem as a linear combination of phase-shifted (known) solutions of a simpler (ideal relay) equation. The phase shifts, which are the ‘switching times’ in the solution of the multi-step relay problem, are the roots of a system of transcendental equations. Thus, an accurate and efficient solution of the system of transcendental equations, is a crucial step in our procedure. A good part of the paper is devoted to this and related questions. To illustrate our technique, we also present some numerical results.
Effects of differential rearing on amphetamine-induced c-fos expression in rats.

Abstract Background Rearing rats in environmental enrichment alters psychostimulant-induced locomotor activity as well as neurotransmitter expression. Exposure to novelty and psychostimulants induces c - fos expression in neurons in the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) pathway. Here we investigated changes in the expression of the immediate early gene c - fos in the mesolimbic DA pathway of enriched, isolated, or socially reared rats due to the neurobiological changes that result from rearing conditions and influence drug taking behavior. Methods Rats were reared in either enriched (EC), isolated (IC), or social (SC) conditions for 30 days, after which they received an acute amphetamine or saline injection (1.0 mg/kg) and locomotor activity was measured. Following immunohistochemical staining c - fos positive neurons were quantified in the NAcc, mPFC, and amygdala. Results Greater locomotor activity was observed in differentially reared rats treated with amphetamine compared to saline, as well as in SC compared to EC and IC rats. Rats reared in an IC context demonstrated greater c - fos expression than EC rats in the NAcc when treated with amphetamine, and EC saline rats demonstrated greater c - fos expression in the cingulate and prelimbic cortices compared to SC saline rats. Additionally, IC amphetamine rats displayed greater c - fos expression in the NAcc compared to IC saline rats, while EC saline rats displayed greater c - fos expression in the prelimbic cortex compared to EC amphetamine rats. Conclusions These results suggest regional specificity of psychostimulant-induced c - fos expression in the prelimbic/NAcc pathway that is altered in differential rearing, and influences initial c - fos activation following psychostimulant exposure.
Rheological Behavior of Na-Montmorillonite Suspensions at Low Electrolyte Concentration

The prevailing concept that positive-edge to negative-face attraction accounts for the rheological behavior of montmorillonite suspensions at low electrolyte concentration was investigated. In one experiment, Mg2+ released from Na-montmorillonite was measured at several NaCl concentrations; in a second experiment, the viscosity, η, and the extrapolated shear stress, θ, were measured at several clay concentrations, pHs, and NaCl concentrations; and in a third experiment, the absorbance, A, was measured at two wavelengths (450 and 760 nm) at different clay and electrolyte concentrations. The released Mg2+ decreased with increasing NaCl concentration until it became zero at a NaCl concentration between 0.01 and 0.02 M, depending on pH. Thereafter, it increased with increasing NaCl concentration. Both θ and η were highly correlated with the amount of released Mg2+. Also, A remained constant until the NaCl concentration corresponded to that at the minimum of θ. Thereafter, it increased and became linearly related to θ. These results suggest: (1) positive-edge to negative-face interaction cannot solely account for the rheological properties of montmorillonite at low electrolyte concentration, and (2) the release of octahedral Mg2+ from montmorillonite affects θ, because it reduces the negative charge on the particles and, thereby, the repulsive force between them
Modulating the bipolar junction transistor subjected to neutron irradiation for integrated circuit simulation

Bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) are susceptible to particle bombardment in radiative environment. A model that is capable of predicting the performance of a BJT subjected to neutron irradiation and that is suitable for SPICE circuit simulation is presented. It is shown that neutron irradiation affects the emitter-base space-charge region capacitance slightly but strongly influences the forward-active current gain. Results calculated from the present model compared favorably with measured dependencies available in the literature. The model was implemented in SPICE, and the performance of a BJT differential amplifier was simulated. >
Role of Host Xanthine Oxidase in Infection Due to Enteropathogenic and Shiga-Toxigenic Escherichia coli

Xanthine oxidase (XO), also known as xanthine oxidoreductase, has long been considered an important host defense molecule in the intestine and in breastfed infants. Here, we present evidence that XO is released from and active in intestinal tissues and fluids in response to infection with enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shiga-toxigenic E. coli (STEC), also known as enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). XO is released into intestinal fluids in EPEC and STEC infection in a rabbit animal model. XO activity results in the generation of surprisingly high concentrations of uric acid in both cultured cell and animal models of infection. Hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) generated by XO activity triggered a chloride secretory response in intestinal cell monolayers within minutes but decreased transepithelial electrical resistance at 6 to 22 h. H(2)O(2) generated by XO activity was effective at killing laboratory strains of E. coli, commensal microbiotas, and anaerobes, but wild-type EPEC and STEC strains were 100 to 1,000 times more resistant to killing or growth inhibition by this pathway. Instead of killing pathogenic bacteria, physiologic concentrations of XO increased virulence by inducing the production of Shiga toxins from STEC strains. In vivo, exogenous XO plus the substrate hypoxanthine did not protect and instead worsened the outcome of STEC infection in the rabbit ligated intestinal loop model of infection. XO released during EPEC and STEC infection may serve as a virulence-inducing signal to the pathogen and not solely as a protective host defense.
Optimal affine-invariant point matching

Application of the affine-invariant point-matching scheme proposed by R. Hummel and H. Wolfson (1988) to the problem of recognizing and determining the pose of sheet metal parts is discussed. Attention is given to errors that can occur with this method due to quantization, stability, symmetry, and noise problems. These errors make the original affine-invariant matching technique unsuitable for use on the factory floor. An explicit noise model, which the Hummel and Wolfson technique lacks, is used. An optimal approach which overcomes these problems is then derived. The performance of the proposed algorithm under the influence of several distorting parameters is evaluated. >
Regulation of the fetal human adrenal cortex: effects of adrenocorticotropin on growth and function of monolayer cultures of fetal and definitive zone cells.

Monolayer cultures have been prepared from both definitive and fetal zones of the human fetal adrenal cortex. Cultures from each zone consist predominately of adrenocortical cells, as determined by a specific morphological retraction response to ACTH, and by ACTH-induced inhibition of DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. Cell growth was stimulated by fibroblast growth factor. ACTH stimulated steroidogenesis in cells from each zone with an ED50 of 0.4–1.0 run and at a maximal concentration of 5 nM. Short term stimulation of less than 24 h with ACTH produced a pattern of steroid secretion that was characteristic of the zone of origin. Definitive zone cultures produced both cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone plus its sulfate (DHA/S), with cortisol production exceeding DHA/S production. Fetal zone cultures produced more DHA/S than cortisol. 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, Δ4,5-isomerase enzyme activity was 3-fold less in fetal than in definitive zone cultures. Long term stimulation of 1–4 days with ACTH, 8...
Nitrogen Implantation Effects on the Chemical Bonding and Hardness of Boron and Boron Nitride Coatings

Boron nitride (BN) coatings are deposited by the reactive sputtering of fully dense, boron (B) targets utilizing an argon-nitrogen (Ar-N{sub 2}) reactive gas mixture. Near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure analysis reveals features of chemical bonding in the B 1s photoabsorption spectrum. Hardness is measured at the film surface using nanoindentation. The BN coatings prepared at low, sputter gas pressure with substrate heating are found to have bonding characteristic of a defected hexagonal phase. The coatings are subjected to post-deposition nitrogen (N{sup +} and N{sub 2}{sup +}) implantation at different energies and current densities. The changes in film hardness attributed to the implantation can be correlated to changes observed in the B 1s NEXAFS spectra.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE VITAMIN D SYSTEM AND CANCER

The classic function of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the hormonally active form of vitamin D, is the maintenance of normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 binds to a specific receptor protein and exerts its biologic action by a mechanism analogous to that proposed for other steroid hormones, that is, the receptor-ligand complex acts on the chromatin to induce transcription of specific genes. Intracellular receptors that bind 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 with high affinity have been found in a large number of tumor cell lines examined as melanoma, osteosarcoma, and human breast and colonic carcinoma cells. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor in these cells has characteristics similar to the receptor in bone and intestine, the known target tissues of the hormone. In fact, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibits the proliferation of melanoma, osteosarcoma, and breast carcinoma cells. More recently, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 has been shown to suppress the growth and induce monocytic differentiation of murine and human myeloid leukemia cells in vitro. These results point to a previously unsuspected involvement of vitamin D in cell proliferation and differentiation and suggest that analogs of the vitamin D hormone may be of interest as possible therapeutic agents in the treatment of malignancy.
Correlation between Physical Properties and Shear Adhesion Strength of Enzymatically Modified Soy Protein-Based Adhesives

This work was to correlate physical properties with adhesion properties of soy protein-based adhesives. By building such a correlation, the adhesion properties can be predicted by measuring physical properties of soy protein-based adhesives. In this context, three important physical properties, viscosity, tacky force, and water resistance, were selected to correlate with adhesion strength of enzymatically modified soy protein-based adhesives (ESP). Response surface methodology, specifically central composite design, was used with three independent variables to prepare ESP: trypsin concentration (X 1), incubation time (X 2), and glutaraldehyde (GA) concentration (X 3). The three physical properties measured were all greatly affected by our three independent variables with significance at the 95 % confidence level. The responses were then correlated with the adhesion properties of ESP. In conclusion, viscosity can be used to predict the dry adhesion strength of ESP based on the coefficient of determination (R 2) of 0.8558. In addition, tacky force and water resistance can be used to represent wet adhesion strength of ESP based on R 2 of 0.7082 and 0.6930, respectively (P < 0.05). This work preliminarily identified the significant physical properties that can predict the adhesion strength of the ESP system crosslinked with GA, but the results need to be further confirmed by another protein modification system to give a generic conclusion.
Interview and recollection-based research with child disaster survivors: participation-related changes in emotion and perceptions of participation

Research suggests that some types of trauma research can be conducted safely with children ages 10 and older. The aim of this project was to learn more about potential risks or benefits of conducting research with younger children and with child disaster survivors, specifically about research that includes children providing trauma recollections. Fifty 8- to 12-year-old children who experienced a devastating tornado participated in an in-person interview that included both individual and joint (mother-child) recollections of their tornado experiences 1 year after exposure. These 50 children also rated 3 emotions at 3 time points and rated their perceptions (e.g., benefit and regret) of research post-participation. Children (N = 28) also participated in phone surveys 3 months later to assess persistent participation-related emotions and perceptions. Child reported that emotions worsened from pre- to during participation; however, reports of emotions returned to preparticipation levels post-participation and remained so at the 3-month follow-up. Sixty-four percent of children reported at least some participation benefit and no participation regret immediately postparticipation, as did 89.3% at the 3-month follow-up. Four percent of children reported some participation regret (no benefit) postparticipation, and 0% 3 months later. No children requested to stop participating, and none required postresearch connection with crisis services. Posttraumatic stress symptom severity, tornado exposure, and age were largely unrelated to child-reported emotions and perceptions of research. Results indicate that carefully planned and executed disaster-related research that includes children providing recollections can be conducted with preadolescents with little risk and some benefit.
Captain Robert Niles and the Connecticut State Navy

Abstract Captain Robert Niles (1734–1818) commanded the schooner, Spy, in the Connecticut state navy during the American Revolution. He gathered intelligence, protecting his state's coast, transported supplies, and traded for contraband in the West Indies. In 1778 Niles sailed Spy to France, delivering a copy of the American-ratified Franco-American Treaty. After the war, he continued maritime pursuits, went bankrupt, endured family tragedies, yet remained active in civic and religious affairs.
Electroabsorption in single-crystal film of dast: Electro-optic modulation at 1.55 microns

Exceptionally large electro-optic coefficients in single-crystal film of DAST (4’-dimethylamino-N-methyl-4-stilbazolium tosylate) have been reported.[1] Electro-optic modulation at a high speed (1.5 GHz) using DAST single-crystal film has been recently measured.[2] The magnitude of r11 as measured at 720 nm is 530 pm/V. In this paper, we discuss results of electroabsorption measurements in DAST single-crystal film, along with electro-optic measurement at 1.55 microns. Electroabsorption in various materials including conjugated polymers such as polydiacetylene and multiple quantum wells was previously reported. However, electroabsorption in materials having linear electro-optic effect was not reported earlier. Electroabsorption in electro-optic materials is due to the imaginary part of the electro-optic coefficient.
The Future of the Skilled Labor Force in New England: The Supply of Recent College Graduates

This report investigates an issue critical to the region’s economy: our ability to attract and retain college graduates to meet current and future labor force needs. Many are concerned that an inadequate supply of skilled workers in New England will deter companies looking to locate or expand within the region. Since 2000, the population of recent college graduates in New England has been growing more slowly than other parts of the United States. This research report investigates the factors that affect the stock of recent college graduates, how those factors have changed over time, and their relative importance in explaining the slower growth of this segment of the labor force. Dr. Sasser finds that, although migration has played a relatively small role over time, retaining more of those recent college graduates educated in New England may offer the most promising and immediate channel to expand the stock of recent college graduates. Yet contrary to the usual litany of reasons offered to explain why individuals leave New England — cold winters, high cost of living — our research shows that recent college graduates report leaving the region primarily for employment reasons. Better matching of recent graduates from New England institutions with jobs and employers around the region could be a promising strategy. Stronger partnerships between universities and industry groups, as well as statewide or regional job clearinghouses may also provide an opportunity to reach this new generation of workers
Promoting Hope Among Youth: Theory, Research, and Practice

Hope is conceptualized as a motivational construct comprised of goals, agency, and pathways. Over the past 15 years, research about hope in the lives of youth has increased greatly. In addition to studies indicating that hope is related to numerous positive outcomes in youth, researchers have recently begun applying these findings to intervention efforts with children and adolescents. In this chapter, theory, measurement, and research about hope among youth will be reviewed. Intervention programs that have been developed for youth will be described, as well as directions for future research and applications.
Disseminated infections with antibiotic-resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella strains: contributions of host and pathogen factors

Non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica serovars (NTS) are generally associated with gastroenteritis; however, the very young and elderly, as well as individuals with compromised immunity, are at risk of developing disseminated infection that can manifest as bacteremia or focal infections at systemic sites. Disseminated NTS infections can be fatal and are responsible for over 600 000 deaths annually. Most of these deaths are in sub-Saharan Africa, where multidrug-resistant NTS clones are currently circulating in a population with a high proportion of individuals that are susceptible to disseminated disease. This review considers how genome degradation observed in African NTS isolates has resulted in phenotypic differences in traits related to environmental persistence and host-pathogen interactions. Further, it discusses host mechanisms promoting susceptibility to invasive infection with NTS in individuals with immunocompromising conditions. We conclude that mechanistic knowledge of how risk factors compromise immunity to disseminated NTS infection will be important for the design of interventions to protect against systemic disease.