cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen peroxide increases GABAergic mIPSC through presynaptic release of calcium from IP3 receptor‐sensitive stores in spinal cord substantia gelatinosa neurons

GABAergic interneurons of the spinal cord substantia gelatinosa regulate the transmission of nociceptive information. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is likely a diffusible messenger contributing to the development of long-lasting pathological pain states after nerve injury. In this study, we examined the presynaptic effects of H2O2 on the inhibitory interneurons of mouse substantia gelatinosa (SG) using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from spinal cord slices. H2O2 increased the frequency of GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic current (mIPSC) in a concentration-dependent (10-1000 microM) manner. The profound increase in mIPSC frequency was diminished by thapsigargin or cyclopiazonic acid suggesting that the intracellular stored pool was the source of presynaptic calcium. Further examination revealed the 2-aminoethoxydiphenil borate blockable inositol-(1,4,5) trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) regulated pool of stored calcium as the likely source. The phospholipase C (PLC) blocker, 1-(6-[([17beta]-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5[10]-trien-17-yl)-amino]hexyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U73122), did not block the frequency increase, which suggested that the site of action of H2O2 lies downstream in the IP3 signalling pathway, and nifedipine-sensitivity of the frequency increase indicated a possible role of calcium-induced calcium-release. However, a direct examination of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) demonstrated that H2O2 did not increase the calcium influx through these channels. The H2O2 effect on mIPSC frequency was markedly reduced in the opisthotonus (Opt) mutant mice with a known deletion in the IP3R1 gene. We demonstrated that H2O2 increased presynaptic activity in the GABAergic interneurons by the release of calcium from the IP3R-regulated intracellular pool. The presynaptic IP3R could emerge as a novel target for preventing H2O2-induced synaptic plasticity in substantia gelatinosa leading to pathological pain states.
THE BRAZILIAN BUSINESS CYCLE AND GROWTH CYCLE

This paper uses several procedures to date and analyze the Brazilian business cycle and growth cycle. In particular, a Markov switching model is fitted to quarterly and annual real production data. The smoothed probabilities of the Markov states are used as predictive rules to define different phases of cyclical fluctuations of real Brazilian production. The results are compared with different non-parametric rules. All methods implemented yield similar dating and reveal asymmetries across the different states of the Brazilian business and growth cycle, in which slowdowns and recessions are short and abrupt, while high growth phases and expansions are longer and less steep. The resulting dating of the Brazilian economic cycles can be used as a reference point for construction and evaluation of the predictive performance of coincident, leading, or lagging indicators of economic activity. In addition, the filtered probabilities obtained from the Markov switching model allow early recognition of the transition to a new business cycle phase, which can be used, for example, for evaluation of the adequate strength and timing of counter cyclical policies, for reassessment of projected sales or profits by businesses and investors, or for monitoring of inflation pressures.
A Mechanism for the Regulation of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide-linked Substrate Oxidation in Rat Liver Mitochondria

Abstract The experiments described in this paper were designed to elucidate the mechanism of the GTP-mediated regulation of the oxidation of NAD-linked substrates in rat liver mitochondria. A possible GTP effect on the electron transport or oxidative phosphorylation sequences at or near the first phosphorylation site was eliminated by the observation that the GTP-mediated inhibition of NAD-linked substrate oxidation occurred in rotenone plus menadione-treated mitochondria in which electrons were shunted around Site I. Furthermore, it was shown that the intramitochondrial pyridine nucleotides, NADH and NADPH, become greatly oxidized upon initiation of the inhibitory state. Cytochromes b, c, and a also become oxidized under these conditions. These observations indicate that reducing equivalents from the NAD-linked dehydrogenase reactions were not available to the electron transport chain at the NADH level during the GTP-mediated inhibitory state. It was shown that GTP exerted its effect on this system by causing an inhibition of the α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase multienzyme complex. Three other well documented inhibitors of the α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase reaction, i.e. sodium arsenite, parapyruvate, and 5-methoxyindole-2-carboxylic acid exactly mimicked the effects of elevated GTP levels on the oxidation of NAD-linked substrates. All four of these inhibitors of α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase caused an inhibition of the oxidation of NAD-linked substrates, a drastic oxidation of intramitochondrial pyridine nucleotides and a reduction of the flavoprotein, dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase. It is proposed that the entry of reducing equivalents into the electron transport chain in intact rat liver mitochondria must occur via the flavoprotein, dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase, portion of the α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex. This flavin-linked transfer of reducing equivalents produced in the primary NAD-linked dehydrogenases of the mitochondrion to the NADH level of the respiratory chain is strongly controlled by the GTP level of the mitochondrion.
A Wondrous and Poetic Spectrum

Unweaving the Rainbow Science, Delusion and the Appetite for Wonder. Richard Dawkins. Houghton Mifflin, New York, 1998. 351 pp. $26. ISBN 0-395-88382-2. In this assessment of what science is (and is not), Dawkins' tapestry includes strands on the wonder and fascination of science, poetry within science, his continuing jousts with Gould, genes as selfish cooperators, and the importance of coevolution in a variety of contexts.
National Reye syndrome surveillance, 1982.

Despite the fact that influenza B was the primary influenza virus strain during the winter of 1981-1982, only 213 cases of Reye syndrome were reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) between Dec 1, 1981 and Nov 30, 1982. This national reported incidence of 0.33 cases per 100,000 children less than 18 years of age is the lowest reported incidence since the Centers for Disease Control began surveillance in 1973. This relatively low incidence probably reflected, at least in part, the fact the influenza B activity was spotty and the illness relatively mild the winter of 1981-1982. The 213 cases were reported from 43 states; and in 56% of the patients, Reye syndrome occurred following a respiratory illness. The mean age of the children was 7.0 years; there were equal numbers of girls and boys; and 93% were white. Of the ten black patients, 80% were less than 1 year of age compared with 9% of the white patients. Of the 208 patients with reported admission stage, 45% were admitted in stage I or 0, a slightly lower proportion than that observed in the previous 2 years. Salicylate levels were obtained in 55% of the patients and were reported as "detectable" in 81% compared with 96% in 1981 (P = .003, chi 2). Of the 200 patients with known outcome, 70 patients died (a case fatality ratio of 35%).
Solving NP-hard number matrix games with Wisdom of Artificial Crowds

Solving puzzles based on number-sum or ordered matrices is an NP-hard problem that requires considerable computational effort. Prime examples of these are the games Sudoku and Kakuro. Kakuro relies on number sequences that must sum to a number indicator shown on the puzzle. Sudoku requires that numbers be listed in an implicit sequence in blocks and rows. Both puzzles require exclusivity of the numbers listed in each row and logical grouping. As a result, solving these puzzles requires an iterative approach. We show that Genetic Algorithms (GA) can be augmented with postprocessing by a Wisdom of Artificial Crowds (WoAC) to constrain the solution space after a number of generations. Using the WoAC method, compared to using GA alone, we can reduce the time to a successful solution by a factor of 50% for easy and medium-difficulty puzzles. Our work has broader applications in the fields of multi-agent theory and collective decision making, as the WoAC method allows for crowd-based improvements to well-known genetic algorithm methods
Chaos and Graphics: Carrying surfaces for return maps of averaged logistic maps

We analyze the average of two iterated logistic maps in both the uncoupled and coupled cases and show that the resulting sequence can be seen as lying on the graph of a function of two variables which we call a carrying surface. Experimenting with different graphical representations of the data led us to discover this surface.
Growing up with cerebral palsy: perceptions of the influence of family.

Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive condition present from birth or infancy that includes various neurological patterns of dysfunction. It is characterized by abnormal motor control and/or posture and can involve communication difficulties. Children and youth with CP face multiple social and developmental challenges during their formative years including mild to severe physical limitations, poor socialization, limited recreational activities, and stigmatization. Families play a key role in supporting adaptation to CP. The purpose of this paper was to explore women's perceptions of the ways their families contributed to their overall quality of life with CP. Methods Drawing on data from a qualitative study of eight women with CP, the purpose of this analysis was to examine perceptions of the ways in which their families and individual family members contributed to participants' overall quality of life and adaptation to CP. Respondents ranged in age from 22 years to 55 years and had varied forms of CP. The study was based on a feminist biographical approach, which combines biographical methods with feminist principles. Results Participants provided considerable, rich contextual data on their family life and the pivotal role family played. The analysis identified four themes related to supportive family roles: (1) being an advocate, and teaching advocacy; (2) promoting inclusion and acceptance; (3) integrating therapy into daily life; and (4) the importance of siblings as friends and mentors. Conclusions Health-care providers can contribute to the family's ability to facilitate quality of life by providing guidance on how to be advocates and teach advocacy, including the child with CP in family activities, accessing therapy and incorporating beneficial therapies at home, and promoting healthy sibling relationships.
Creating a curtain of protection: nurses' experiences of grief following patient death.

Purpose: To describe the lived experience of nurses surrounding the death of their patients. Design: A qualitative phenomenologic approach was used for the interview and analysis framework. Methods to ensure trustworthiness and rigor were incorporated into the design. Methods: Using semistructured interviews and phenomenologic concepts, the investigators interviewed 11 registered nurses where data was analyzed using methods of Heideggerian hermeneutical analysis and van Manen's progression of reflection, description, writing, and rewriting. Findings: Four themes were identified: (a) Reciprocal relationship transcends professional relationship; (b) initial patient death events are formative; (c) nurses’ coping responses incorporate spiritual worldviews and caring rituals; and (d) remaining “professional” requires compartmentalizing of experience. Conclusions: Nurses create a curtain of protection to mitigate the grieving process and allow them to continue to provide supportive nursing care. Clinical Relevance: By developing understanding of the grieving and coping processes, nursing faculty, administrators, and leaders can provide better learning opportunities and more supportive practice environments for the professional nurse.
Dysfunctional glucocorticoid receptor with a single point mutation ablates the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-dependent growth suppression response in a steroid-resistant rat hepatoma cell variant

We used glucocorticoid-resistant and -sensitive hepatoma cell variants to characterize the mechanism of hepatoma cell resistance to the growth inhibitory effects of glucocorticoids. BDS1 hepatoma cells express transcriptionally active glucocorticoid receptors and undergo a stringent G1 cell cycle arrest in response to glucocorticoids that is dependent on the induced expression of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα) transcription factor. In contrast, EDR1 hepatoma cells, which express normal levels of glucocorticoid receptors, fail to growth arrest or express C/EBPα when treated with glucocorticoids. Ectopic expression of wild-type rat glucocorticoid receptors into EDR1 cells restored the growth suppression response, suggesting a defect in the EDR1 receptor. DNA sequence analysis revealed a single point mutation causing a cysteine-to-tyrosine substitution at amino acid position 457 (C457Y-GR) in the zinc finger region of the glucocorticoid receptor that mediates both receptor–DNA and receptor–pro...
Resource Paper: Sonoluminescence

Sonoluminescence is the production of electromagnetic radiation, much of it in the form of visible light, that is emitted from a gas-filled cavity that has grown and collapsed under the influence of a varying pressure field. This resource paper provides a guide to the literature of sonoluminescence, from its early history to the present.
Field orientation and adaptive backstepping for induction motor control

Based on a nonlinear model of induction motor containing both electrical and mechanical dynamics, an combined field orientation and adaptive backstepping approach is proposed in this paper for the control of induction motors. Rotor angular speed and rotor flux amplitude tracking objectives are formulated so that the speed regulation is achieved with the consideration of improving power efficiency. Parameter uncertainties of the rotor resistance and load torque disturbance are compensated using adaptive control techniques. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Self‐knowledge and psychological knowledge: Teaching psychology from the cognitive point of view 1

Abstract The aims and methods of teaching psychology depend on one's conception of the field. The three principal contemporary approaches are behaviorism, dynamic psychology, and cognitive psychology. Of these three, only cognitive psychology provides a frame of reference in which knowledge can be seen as valuable in its own right, and psychological knowledge as important even for non‐professionals. The three orientations have different implications for the level at which psychology can usefully be taught. A successful course taught in a junior high school illustrates the feasibility of teaching about cognition at this level, where other approaches may have little to offer. The three orientations suggest emphasis on different methods of teaching. Classroom demonstration of perceptual and cognitive phenomena plays a special role in teaching about cognition. It enables the student to discover that what he is learning applies to him, and thus endows it with specific concreteness and personal relevance.
The pH dependent phase transfer of an organometallic complex: synthesis, characterization, and crystal structure of a W(0) tetracarbonyl with an acidic pyridine–imine ligand

Abstract Reaction of the asymmetrical pyridine–imine ligand L (where L=benzoic acid, 3-[(2-pyridinylmethylene)amino]) with W(CO)3(EtCN)3 and CO (g) affords a W(0) tetracarbonyl in which the Schiff-base ligand coordinates in a bidentate fashion. The complex was characterized by IR, NMR, and UV–visible spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The solid-state structure of W(CO)4(L), which crystallized in the orthorhombic space group Pbca with unit cell parameters a=22.497(4) A, b=14.112(6) A, and c=13.675(3) A was established by X-ray crystallography. Deprotonation of the –CO2H group on the ligand with base results in the formation of a water-soluble organometallic complex which can be partitioned between organic and aqueous phases in a biphasic system by pH adjustment.
Pertussis Vaccine Trials in the 1990s

The significant burden of disease due to pertussis, which predominantly affects newborns during their first few months of life, was substantially decreased following the introduction of inactivated whole-bacterial-cell vaccines in the middle of the 20th century. Although these vaccines were effective in reducing the incidence of pertussis in the countries that implemented their widespread use, increasing concerns about pertussis vaccine-associated adverse events led the development of acellular pertussis vaccines containing 1 or more purified Bordetella pertussis proteins. During the 1990s, collaborative international clinical trials were conducted to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and/or efficacy of different acellular vaccines.
Invited Review Article: The statistical modeling of atomic clocks and the design of time scales

I will show how the statistical models that are used to describe the performance of atomic clocks are derived from their internal design. These statistical models form the basis for time scales, which are used to define international time scales such as International Atomic Time and Coordinated Universal Time. These international time scales are realized by ensembles of clocks at national laboratories such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and I will describe how ensembles of atomic clocks are characterized and managed.
Hypoxic exosomes promote angiogenesis

In this issue of Blood, Umezu et al identified that exosomal miR-135b plays a critical role in mediating multiple myeloma (MM) cell-to-endothelial cell communication under chronic hypoxia.
Large kinetic isotope effects in enzymatic proton transfer and the role of substrate oscillations

We propose an interpretation of the experimental findings of Klinman and coworkers [Cha, Y., Murray, C. J. & Klinman, J. P. (1989) Science 243, 1325–1330; Grant, K. L. & Klinman, J. P. (1989) Biochemistry 28, 6597–6605; and Bahnson, B. J. & Klinman, J. P. (1995) Methods Enzymol. 249, 373–397], who showed that proton transfer reactions that are catalyzed by bovine serum amine oxidase proceed through tunneling. We show that two different tunneling models are consistent with the experiments. In the first model, the proton tunnels from the ground state. The temperature dependence of the kinetic isotope effect is caused by a thermally excited substrate mode that modulates the barrier, as has been suggested by Borgis and Hynes [Borgis, D. & Hynes, J. T. (1991) J. Chem. Phys. 94, 3619–3628]. In the second model, there is both over-the-barrier transfer and tunneling from excited states. Finally, we propose two experiments that can distinguish between the possible mechanisms.
On a Generalized Anti-Ramsey Problem

For positive integers , a coloring of is called a -coloring if the edges of every receive at least and at most colors. Let denote the maximum number of colors in a -coloring of . Given we determine the largest such that all -colorings of have at most O(n) colors and we determine asymptotically when it is of order equal to . We give several bounds and constructions.
Cardiorespiratory Decompensation Following Methylprednisolone Administration

A 2-year-old white female receiving multidrug chemotherapy for treatment of a primitive neuroectodermal tumor developed acute hypotension, bradycardia, and shock following administration of ondansetron and high-dose methylprednisolone. The subsequent clinical course is described, and cardiovascular reactions to ondansetron and methylprednisolone are reviewed. While the etiology of this severe reaction is uncertain, it is possible that it represents an idiosyncratic reaction to the rapid administration of high-dose adrenal corticosteroids. Patients receiving high-dose corticosteroid therapy should be closely monitored, and slow rates of infusion are recommended.
Analysis of causes of decohesion of a gas turbine blade made of EI 867‐WD alloy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present results of laboratory testing work on causes of a service failure/damage to an aircraft turbojet's gas‐turbine blade made of the EI 867‐WD alloy.Design/methodology/approach – The tests comprised comparing the microstructure of a service‐damaged blade with microstructures of specimens drawn from a similar all‐new blade, both subjected to temperatures of different values for different annealing times.Findings – Findings based on the comparison of experimentally gained results of microstructure examination of both the gas‐turbine blades were: the change in the microstructure of a damaged blade results from the growth and cuboidal‐to‐lamellar change of shape of the reinforcing phase γ′ (Ni3Al); and the size and shape of this phase are comparable to those of the phase γ′ of a new blade subjected to annealing at temperature exceeding 1,223 K for 1 h. The results gained allowed for drawing the conclusion that the damaged turbine blade was operated in the exhaust‐...
Efficient algorithms for answering queries with unsorted multilists

Abstract Three algorithms are given in this paper, each one increasing in complexity and efficiency, for parallel tracing of unsorted multilists. These algorithms avoid multiple record accessing for disjunctive queries, and they attempt to reduce the amount of seek action required to access all the records that satisfy a query. The algorithms are more efficient and no more complex than the general algorithm of Hsiao and Harary. The algorithms can enable, in some cases, the same querying efficiency obtainable with sorted multilists. Hence, efficiencies in on-line querying and updating are simultaneously accomplished.
Real-Time Detection of Pits in Processed Cherries by Magnetic Resonance Projections

Abstract A simulation of one-dimensional magnetic resonance projections of cherries, showed a significant difference between projections of cherries with and without pits. Projections of cherries in a 2-T magnetic field and a 100 mm Birdcage coil were used for detection of hidden pits. When cherries were randomly oriented 45 of 51 (88%) brined cherries with pits and 19 of 30 (63%) pitted cherries were correctly classified. A great improvement was achieved with oriented cherries: 29 out of 30 cherries with pits and 29 out of 30 pitted cherries were correctly classified. Detection rate may reach hundreds of cherries per second. This method could be applicable to detection of pits in olives and dates.
A Role for Melanopsin in Alpha Retinal Ganglion Cells and Contrast Detection

Distinct subclasses of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) mediate vision and nonimage-forming functions such as circadian photoentrainment. This distinction stems from studies that ablated melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs) and showed deficits in nonimage-forming behaviors, but not image vision. However, we show that the ON alpha RGC, a conventional RGC type, is intrinsically photosensitive in mammals. In addition to their classical response to fast changes in contrast through rod/cone signaling, melanopsin expression allows ON alpha RGCs to signal prior light exposure and environmental luminance over long periods of time. Consistent with the high contrast sensitivity of ON alpha RGCs, mice lacking either melanopsin or ON alpha RGCs have behavioral deficits in contrast sensitivity. These findings indicate a surprising role for melanopsin and ipRGCs in vision.
Dynamics of oxygen chemisorption on saran char

Abstract Chemisorption of oxygen on Saran char was followed dynamically with a volumetric adsorption apparatus at O2 pressures of 6.5 × 103 Pa to 3.4 × 104 Pa and temperatures of 338 K to 408 K. Concurrent O2 physical adsorption was observed to follow the low pressure limit of Langmuir's adsorption isotherm, V = KP; K was found to fit an Arrhenius form with a heat of adsorption of −11.7 kJ/mol and a preexponential factor of 7.11 × 10−7 ml(STP)/Pa. Chemisorption data, corrected for physisorption and blank errors, can be linearized on ln(amount adsorbed) vs In(time) axes. Collision theory and the Freundlich isotherm are used to develop a kinetic model which is consistent with this logarithmic relationship and which is able to reduce all data at the same carbon burn-off to a single straight line on appropriate logarithmic axes. The applicability of this model implies that the Saran char surface is characterized by a continuous distribution of heterogeneous adsorption sites.
Prevalence, correlates, and comorbidity of bipolar I disorder and axis I and II disorders: results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions.

Objective: To present nationally representative data on 12-month and lifetime prevalence, correlates, and comorbidity of bipolar I disorder. Method: The data were derived from the 2001-2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (N = 43,093). Prevalences and associations of bipolar I disorder with sociodemographic correlates and Axis I and II disorders were determined. Results: Prevalences of 12-month and lifetime DSM-IV bipolar I disorder were 2.0% (95% CI = 1.82 to 2.18) and 3.3% (95% CI = 2.76 to 3.84), respectively, and no sex differences were observed. The odds of bipolar I disorder were significantly greater among Native Americans, younger adults, and respondents who were widowed/separated/divorced and of lower socio-economic status and significantly lower among Asians and Hispanics (p <.05). Men were significantly (p <.05) more likely to have unipolar mania and earlier onset and longer duration of manic episodes, while women were more likely to have mixed and major depressive episodes and to be treated for manic, mixed, and major depressive episodes. Bipolar I disorder was found to be highly and significantly related (p <.05) to substance use, anxiety, and personality disorders, but not to alcohol abuse. Conclusion: Bipolar I disorder is more prevalent in the U.S. population than previously estimated, highlighting the underestimation of the economic costs associated with this illness. Associations between bipolar I disorder and Axis I and II disorders were all significant, underscoring the need for systematic assessment of comorbidity among bipolar 1 patients.
Allogeneic fibroblasts used to grow cultured epidermal autografts persist in vivo and sensitize the graft recipient for accelerated second-set rejection.

Introduction : Cultured epidermal autografts (CEAs) have been used for wound coverage in patients with massive burns and other skin defects. However, CEAs often display late breakdown, which may be immunologically mediated and initiated by persistent foreign fibroblasts used as a feeder layer to optimize keratinocyte growth. This study investigates whether these fibroblasts, previously shown to persist in vitro, survive after grafting and induce host sensitization to alloantigen. Methods : CEAs from CBA donors (H-2 k ) were grown on allogeneic NIH 3T3 (H-2 q ) or syngeneic LTK (H-2 k ) fibroblasts, which were removed by trypsinization 7 days later. CBA mice (n = 85) were flank-grafted with NIH allografts (positive control), CEA/3T3s, CEA/LTKs, or CBA autografts (negative control). Hosts were challenged with second set NIH tail allografts 3 weeks later. Median graft survival was compared between groups by Wilcoxon rank and x 2 analysis. Additional CBA mice (n = 15) received CEAs that were biopsied 0, 4, and 8 days after grafting. The presence of allogeneic fibroblasts was determined by Western immunoblotting, using KL295, a monoclonal antibody that recognizes H-2 q (but not H-2 k ) class II histocompatibility antigens. Results : Allogeneic fibroblasts persisted after grafting but decreased over time, as determined by alloantigen expression on Western immunoblots. Accelerated tail graft rejection occurred in hosts primed by NIH allografts (9 days, p < 0.05), as well as by CEAs grown with an allogeneic (10 days, p < 0.05) but not a syngeneic feeder layer (12 days, NS). Mice receiving flank autografts rejected second set tail allografts at 12 days. Conclusions : Immunogenic fibroblasts used to grow CEAs survive in vivo and sensitize the graft recipient for accelerated second-set rejection. These persistent cells may initiate an inflammatory response that may result in late graft breakdown and limit the utility of CEAs grown with a foreign fibroblast feeder layer.
Non-lithographic fabrication of polymer reconfigurable waveguide fanout

We report on the non-lithographic laser writing fabrication of polymer waveguide fanout on a newly developed 4'- hydroxy-4-nitroazobenzene dye functionalized polymer film. It can avoid the time consuming costly error correction re-fabrication in conventional optical waveguide fabrication by lithographic techniques when encountering error due to imperfect fabrication. The laser writing correction of power splitting ratio on waveguide directional coupler and y-branch fanouts has been demonstrated.
A distributed switch scheduling algorithm

The maximum weight matching algorithm is a high-performance scheduling algorithm for cross-bar switches. It is known that it performs optimally under heavy loads. However, its centralized nature and high computational complexity limit the algorithm's applicability. This paper presents a randomized algorithm for distributed switch scheduling that is capable of delivering high throughput.
Meta-Analysis of Gas Flow Resistance Measurements Through Packed Beds

Abstract : Measurements of the resistance to flow through packed beds of inert spheres have been reported by a number of authors through relations expressing the coefficient of drag as a function of Reynolds number. A meta-analysis of the data using improved statistical methods is undertaken to aggregate the available experimental results. For Reynolds number in excess of 10(exp 3) the relation logFv = 0.49 + 0.90 logRe' is shown to be a highly effective representation of all available data. Gas flow resistance, Packed beds, Meta-analysis, Bootstrap, Regression, Gas flow, Reynolds number.
Experiential and Contextual Factors That Shape Engineering Interest and Educational Decision-Making Processes among Female Students.

This qualitative study explores the formation of educational and vocational goals among female first-year engineering students at two community colleges and one four-year institution, as well as contextual influences on this process. Participants’ pathways to college are also explored, as well as their pathways into engineering. The findings suggest a need for expanded access to experiential learning opportunities and ongoing attention to the role of community colleges in engineering education.
DIGITAL QUANTITATION OF HCC – ASSOCIATED STEM CELL MARKERS AND PROTEIN QUALITY CONTROL FACTORS USING TISSUE ARRAYS OF HUMAN LIVER SECTIONS

The most common type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), affects over 500,000 people in the world. In the present study, liver tumor resections were used to prepare tissue arrays to examine the intensity of fluorescence of IHC stained stem cell markers in liver tissue from malignant HCC tumors and accompanying surrounding non-tumor liver. We hypothesized that a correlation exists between the fluorescence intensity of IHC stained HCC and surrounding non-tumor liver compared to liver tissue from a completely normal liver. 120 liver resection specimens (including four normal controls) were placed on a single slide to make a tissue array. They were examined by digitally quantifying the intensity of fluorescence using immuno-histochemically stained stem cell markers and protein quality control proteins. The stem cell markers were OCT3/4, Nanog, CD133, pEZH2, CD49F and SOX2. The protein quality control proteins were FAT10, UBA-6 and ubiquitin. The data collected was used to compare normal liver tissue with HCCs and parent liver tissue resected surgically using antibodies to stem cell markers and quality control protein markers. The measurements of the stem cell marker CD133 indicated an increase of fluorescence intensity for both the parent liver tissue and the HCC liver tissues. The other stem cell markers changed as follows: Nanog and OCT3/4 were decreased in both the HCCs and the parent livers; PEZH2 was reduced in the HCCs; SOX2 was increased in the parent livers compared to the controls; and CD49f was decreased in HCCs only. Protein quality control markers FAT10 and ubiquitin were downregulated in both the HCCs and the adjacent non-tumor tissue compared to the controls. UBA6 was increased in both the HCCs and the parent livers, and the levels were higher in the HCCs compared to the parent livers.
Altered tissue specificity of the revertant shrunken allele upon Dissociation (Ds) excision is associated with loss of expression and molecular rearrangement at the corresponding non-allelic isozyme locus in maize

Transposable element Activator (Ac) induced wild-type stable revertants, derived from McClintock's Dissociation (Ds) insertion shrunken (sh) mutant sh-m5933, have been examined for sucrose synthases, SS1 and SS2, encoded by the revertant (Sh) locus and the non-allelic gene Sus (previously designated as Ss2), respectively. A structurally normal Sh locus has been previously described in these revertants. Immuno-blot (Western) and Southern hybridization analyses reported here identify one of the nine alleles, Sh-r5, as unique for several features. It showed altered tissue specificity, as the SS1 protein encoded by the Sh-r5 allele was readily detectable in the immature embryo which is otherwise characterized by the Sus expression only. The level of Sh-r5 expression at the protein and enzyme level was marked by endosperm specific SS1 abundance and a significant down-regulation in the embryo similar to the standard Sh and Sus loci in endosperm and embryo, respectively. We infer that tissue specific levels of gene expression among maize Ss genes is significantly determined by trans-regulatory factors present in these two tissues. The Sh-r5 strain also exhibited a complete loss of the Sus expression in all tissues tested in the plant. Lack of any detectable phenotypic abnormality in the Sh-r5 strain due to the loss of SS2 protein indicated that either the SS2 protein is nonessential or that the two SS isozymes are functionally compensatory. Genomic filter hybridizations with the Sus cDNA clone indicated that the Sus locus in the Sh-r5 strain was not deleted and was, in fact, unique among these revertants. Together, these data provide an unusual insight into the regulation and function of the two SS isozymes in the maize plant.
Carbonate Cycles in Arctic Ocean Sediment Cores: ABSTRACT

Gasometric determination of the carbonate fraction from generally continuous intervals of cores from the Canada basin and Alpha Cordillera reveal as many as 18 significant fluctuations during the past 3 m.y. The duration and number of these cyclic carbonate fluctuations are very similar to those reported from the equatorial Pacific. However, carbonate peaks in the Arctic sediment cores do not correlate with faunal increases as they do in the Pacific. Poor correlation between carbonate peaks and organic carbon content also suggests that these peaks are not caused by increases in organic productivity. Examination of the coarser fraction associated with the carbonate layers indicates that detrital calcite and dolomite are present. One possible explanation for the increase of detrital carbonate during the Pleistocene could be periodic lowering of sea level which would expose carbonate outcrops of the continental shelf to ice plucking. If so, such events may be correlated with Pleistocene events elsewhere. End_of_Article - Last_Page 2476------------
Design of stability augmentation systems for automotive vehicles

The high-speed cruising stability of passenger vehicles may be enhanced with stability augmentation systems. These systems would modify the driver's steering command to the vehicle's front wheels, and steer the rear wheels according to measured vehicle conditions such as is yaw-rate. In this simulation study, an explicit driver model is used in the design of these stability augmentation systems
Evaluation of fungicides and tobacco cultivar resistance to Rhizoctonia solani incited target spot, damping off and sore shin

Diseases incited by Rhizoctonia solani KuK hn (teleomorph Thanatephorus cucumeris (Frank) Donk.) often cause serious losses to tobacco growers in Georgia. Isolates were collected from target spot lesions and stems of diseased plants across the tobacco growing belt of Georgia and evaluated for sensitivity to several fungicides. Isolates ranged up to 263 times for their ED50 values to a fungicide. ED50s in lg/ml were calculated for iprodione (0.54, 0.52), #utolanil (0.99, 0.12), carboxin (4.19, 0.57), PCNB (13.84, 3.96), chlorpyriofos (38.36, 26.72), and mancozeb (52.43, 70.73) for AG-3 isolates originating from target spots and isolates from tobacco stem lesions, respectively. Tri#umizole had an ED50 of 3.17 lg/ml for stem isolates. Iprodione at the rate of 1.12 kg ai/ha reduced incidence and severity of target spot in seed beds. Coker 371-Gold, Speight G-70, K326 and breeding line 1071 grown in a greenhouse appeared to be equally susceptible to stem infection by all isolates tested. Seed bed trials identi"ed Speight G70 and K-149 as more susceptible to lower stem infection than McNair 944, Coker 371-Gold and NC2326 with K-346, K-326, and Speight G-28 intermediate. Flutolanil, iprodione, #uazinam, and tebuconazole were all active in reducing stem infection in seed beds. Rhizoctonia target spot was severe in the "eld in 1994, and of the 66 tobacco entries evaluated, NC72, NC71, K-326, Coker 371-Gold, Speight G-70, Speight G-168, NC95, NC2326, and K-149 had relatively low levels of disease compared to other cultivars. ( 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Programmable multi-zone furnace for microgravity research

In order to provide new furnace technology to accommodate microgravity research studies and commercial applications in material processes, research has been initiated on the development of the Programmable-Multi-zone Furnace (PMZF). The PMZF is described as a multi-user materials processing furnace facility that is composed of thirty or more heater elements in series on a muffle tube or in a stacked ring-type configuration and independently controlled by a computer. One of the aims of the PMZF project is to allow furnace thermal gradient profiles to be reconfigured without physical modification of the hardware by creating the capability of reconfiguring thermal profiles in response to investigators' requests. The future location of the PMZF facility is discussed; the preliminary science survey results and preliminary conceptual designs for the PMZF are presented; and a review of multi-zone furnace technology is given.
Demonstration of dynamic optical arbitrary waveform generation with 5-ns record lengths and 33-ps features

We demonstrate bandwidth-scalable, high-fidelity dynamic arbitrary optical waveforms with 30-GHz of bandwidth by coherently combining three 10-GHz spectral slices generated with just 5.5 GHz of electrical bandwidth per I/Q modulator signal.
Electron spin resonance absorption spectrum of trivalent gadolinium in the oxide YAIG

The electron spin resonance absorption spectrum of thivalent gadolinium in single crystals of yttrium-aluminum garnet is re-investigated at X-band and Q-band wavelengths. Fine structure spectral parameters deduced from Q-band wavelength measurements are found to predict satisfactorily spectral observations at both wavelengths. A list of spectral parameters deduced from data taken at 77 K is given.
Pancreatic polypeptide in acute pancreatitis and small-bowel infarction in dogs

Serum and urine concentrations of pancreatic polypeptide (PP) were measured during experimental acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis and small-bowel infarction in dogs. The mean serum PP, concentration in animals with pancreatitis increased markedly after 1 hr and remained elevated, while the mean serum PP concentration in the animals with infarction showed a late trend to increase. The urine PP concentration in pancreatitis increased nonsignificantly, whereas, during bowel infarction, there was no increase. In the infarction group, PP clearance correlated with the serum PP concentration. During pancreatitis, PP was cleared independently of the serum PP concentration. The results suggest that during acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis there is an acute release of PP related to immediate cell injury in the pancreas. The high serum concentration of PP may lead to an override of the normal renal handling of PP. In small-bowel infarction there may be a delayed mode of PP release.
NAMS/Solvay Resident Essay Award. Relationship between estrogen, serotonin, and depression.

Objective A limited review of the medical literature was performed to determine whether there is an increase in the prevalence of depressive symptomatology in women undergoing menopause and whether this increase can be related to fluctuating levels of estrogen. In addition, we evaluate the possible effect that estrogen has on the concentrations of neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin, in the central nervous system and the subsequent impact on mood in peri- and postmenopausal women. Finally, we examine whether estrogen replacement therapy is efficacious in the treatment of depression during the climacteric. Design Limited MEDLINE review of the medical literature on depression in women, the evidence for a serotonergic role in depression, evidence linking estrogen to changes in serotonergic activity and evidence that estrogen therapy can improve depression. Results Depression is more common in women than in men and seems to be increased at times of changing hormone levels in women. The serotonergic system seems to play a major role in depression, although other neurotransmitters are also involved. Estrogen can alter not just serotonergic activity but also has an impact on the activity of several other neurotransmitters that might result in an antidepressant effect. At this time, estrogen therapy for the treatment of depression in peri- and postmenopausal women may be useful, but confirmatory studies are still lacking. Conclusions There is suggestive evidence that estrogen therapy is appropriate treatment for mild-to-moderate depression in peri- and postmenopausal women.
Selective Synthesis, Isolation and Crystallographic Characterization of LaSc2N@Ih-C80

The successful preparation and isolation of the mixed-metal endohedral fullerene, LaSc2N@Ih-C80, and its structural characterization by single-crystal X-ray diffraction are reported. Results from chemically adjusting plasma temperature, energy, and reactivity (CAPTEAR) experiments indicate that a 10 wt % addition of Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O to a mixture of La2O3 and Sc2O3 decreases the amount of C60 and C70 found in soot extracts by an order of magnitude. By combining a stoichiometric 2-fold excess of La to Sc atoms in the plasma reactor, an extract containing a greater abundance of LaSc2N@Ih-C80 relative to Sc3N@Ih-C80 was obtained. Alternatively, the stir and filter approach (SAFA method) can be used to remove the empty cage fullerenes from a carbon soot sample prepared without using Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O. LaSc2N@Ih-C80 has been characterized by UV/vis absorption spectroscopy and by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Ordered crystals with nearly identical orientations of the endohedral relative to the porphyrin have be...
WE-D-M100J-07: Impact of Hemoglobin On Outcome of Chemo/Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer

Purpose: Hemoglobin (Hgb) has been considered as an important factor on radiation therapy for cervical cancer. However, recent studies reported that anemia is only a secondary symptom associated with disease stage and tumor volume, but not an independent predictor for outcome. Our study is to investigate whether low Hgb actively influences the effectiveness of radiation therapy or is merely a symptom of tumor burden. Materials/Methods: The study was based on 67 cervical cancer patients (stage IB2‐IVA). Serial Hgb measurements were performed before and during therapy. Tumor volume was obtained from 3D MRI volumetry. Median follow‐up was 2.9 years (range 0.09∼6.4 years). Treatment outcome was evaluated with local tumor‐control and disease‐free survival. Correlations between Hgb parameters and clinical variables were evaluated with Spearman‐rank method. Outcome prediction was based on univariate and multivariate analyses with Cox regression model. Survival analysis was assessed using Kaplan‐Meier method. Results: Hgb levels were not correlated with tumor stage (correlation coefficient −0.1∼ −0.2) and weakly correlated with tumor volume (correlation coefficient −0.4∼ −0.5). In univariate analysis, local tumor‐control was predicted by mean Hgb (p=0.009) and nadir Hgb (p=0.004); disease‐free survival was only predicted by nadir Hgb (p=0.031). In multivariate analysis, Hgb parameters were the best predictors of outcome: local tumor‐control was predicted by mean Hgb (p=0.013) and nadir Hgb (p=0.007); disease‐free survival was only marginally predicted by nadir Hgb (p=0.053). Kaplan‐Meier analysis demonstrated that Hgb (>12g/dl vs <12g/dl) could potentially differentiate patients in terms of local tumor‐control and disease‐free survival. Conclusion: Preliminary results suggest that Hgb may not be associated with tumor burden (volume and stage). This early work suggests that chronically low Hgb during RT course negatively affects outcome. The independent role of Hgb in combination with other factors may be useful in outcome prediction.
Circadian Rhythm of Optic Nerve Impulses Recorded in Darkness from Isolated Eye of Aplysia

The isolated eye of the sea hare Aplysia califomica shows a circadian rhythm of optic nerve impulses when kept in total darkness. Peak activity on the first day of isolation occurs during the projected " dawn" of the light-dark cycle to which the whole animal had previously been entrained. Eyes from animals previously exposed to constant light show a free-running rhythm. This simple photoreceptor provides a quantized output with an ideal control (the other eye) for studies on rhythms.
Adverse Drug Reactions In Utero: Perspectives on Teratogens and Strategies for the Future

Many think of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) as an adverse event caused by a medication intended for a given subject. However, as we learned from the thalidomide debacle 50 years ago, some of the most devastating ADRs affect not the subject who takes the medication but rather, in the case of pregnancy exposures, an innocent bystander--the fetus--and the ADRs include birth defects.
Transplantation and the problems afterward including coronary vasculopathy

The clinical success of cardiac transplantation requires clinical cardiologists to become familiar with care of the post-transplant patient. This review emphasizes five major post-transplant problems: (1) infection/immunosuppression, (2) metabolic problems, (3) post-transplant hypertension, (4) exercise intolerance, and (5) graft coronary disease. The evolution of these problems after transplantation is emphasized, so that clinical cardiologists and internists sharing the management of these patients can develop a context in which to work.