cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3D cutting tool inspection system and its key technologies

Cutting tools are an essential component used in manufacturing parts for different products. Many cutting tools are manufactured with complex geometric shapes and sharp and/or curved edges. As such, maintaining quality control of cutting tools during their fabrication may be essential to controlling the quality of components manufactured using the cutting tools. In this paper, a 3D cutting tool inspection system, is presented. The architecture of the system, the cutter inspection workflow and some key technologies are discussed. The relative key technologies include two aspects. The first aspect is the system extrinsic self-calibration method for ensuring the system accuracy. This paper will elaborate on how to calibrate the orientation and location of the rotary stage in the coordination system, including the relative relationship between the axis of the chuck used to hold the tool and the rotary axis used to position the tool, along with the relative relationship between Z stage and rotary axis. Further, this paper will analyze self-calibration solutions for separately correcting the error of the squareness and optical measuring beam and the error of the alignment between a side scan and a tip scan. The second aspect this paper will address is a method of scan planning for automatic and effective data collection. Tool measurement planning plays a big role in saving tool measurement time, improving data accuracy, as well as ensuring data completeness. Ths paper will present a round-part oriented measurement method that includes coarse/fine section scans that aim at getting 2D section geometry in a progressive manner, covering the key sharp/curved edge areas, and the side helical scan combined with the tip round scan for shape-simulated full geometry capture. Finally, this paper will present experimental results and some field tests data.
Gastroesophageal reflux and obstructive sleep apnea

Objective To determine the extent to which gastroesophageal reflux (GER)-initiated laryngeal chemoreflexes contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial of an antireflux treatment protocol as a means of reducing the severity of OSA. Population consisted of 10 males aged 20 to 64 years with confirmed OSA (by overnight polysomnography) and GER (by ambulatory pH probe monitoring). Patients were treated with omeprazole and standard antireflux protocol for 30 days and pre- and posttreatment polysomnography variables were compared. Results Mean apnea index declined 31% (45–31, P = .04); mean respiratory disturbance index declined 25% (62–46, P = .06). Three patients (30%) are “treatment responders” as defined by traditional OSA treatment definitions. Conclusions These results suggest a potential relationship between OSA and GER, the treatment of which may be an effective adjunctive in those with both disorders. Treatment of GER may significantly impact OSA in select individuals.
Validating Module Heuristics on Large Scale Products

Decreasing time and costs is a major objective in many businesses today. Including modularity in the early design phases can effectively decrease time spent on and costs associated with a project. The task of identifying modules within a product early in the design process (when decisions are less expensive) is made less daunting by using the techniques of functional modeling and module heuristics. This paper discusses the results of the initial efforts to verify the module heuristics on large products (products with functional models consisting of more than 30 sub-functions) since the module heuristics were originally developed on small products. Observations on needed modifications to the functional modeling technique and original module heuristics are reported along with an investigation of using potential risk statements to formulate modules. This work finds the original module heuristics do apply to large products with modifications and combining of heuristics.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Hypertension-Lipid Connection: Introduction

P of the statin inhibitors of 3-hydroxy3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase and of angiotensin II (Ang II) AT1 receptor blockers are increasingly tied to vascular protection. In addition to their well-documented primary actions on lipoproteins and vascular resistance, respectively, a number of biological processes common to both statins and Ang II receptor antagonists suggest novel actions on the mechanisms that contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. These include shared artery wall effects that target endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell activity as well as the reactive cellular components of the circulation, such as platelets and leukocytes.1 Both statins and Ang II receptor antagonists may inhibit the growth response of vascular smooth muscle cells,2–5 play a role in the stabilization of the atherosclerotic plaque,6 and stimulate antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory responses.7–9 Statinmediated inhibition of macrophage low-density lipoprotein oxidation and a similar effect of Ang II receptor antagonists further suggest that these classes of drugs possess pleiotropic properties that through different mechanisms have common target outcomes.10,11 Experimental findings have been buttressed by the demonstration of antihypertensive actions of statins that may in part be related to down-regulation of AT1 receptors.12–14 The significance of the interaction between statins and blockers of the renin angiotensin system has practical consequences in terms of a global management of hypertension and its associated risk factors. The 4 articles included in this Symposium provide a bird’s eye view of the novel emerging mechanisms that may illuminate the pathobiology and therapy of atherosclerotic vascular disease. The promissory role of genetically modified rodent models of atherosclerosis is reviewed by Alan Daugherty; Pavel Levy underlines the importance of atherosclerosis as a frequent cause of peripheral vascular disease. A third article introduces us to novel mechanisms of atherogenesis that implicate the hematopoietic system of the bone marrow as a site for the early actions of lipoproteins and Ang II in the disease process. The From the Hypertension and Vascular Disease Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Correspondence: Carlos M. Ferrario, M.D., F.A.C.A., F.A.C.C., The Hypertension and Vascular Disease Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (Email: cferrari@wfubmc.edu).
Hydroxyproline content of the developing chick embryo.

SummaryThe egg-shell membranes of the chicken, duck, and turkey contain 0.66 to 1.00% hydroxyproline depending upon species. The remainder of the contents of the egg contains no detectable amount of hydroxyproline. Hydroxyproline appears in detectable amounts in the chick embryo after the fourth day and increases to 1.16% of the dry weight on the nineteenth day. The serosa contains hydroxyproline after the fifth day which increases to a maximum of 2.1% on the fourteenth day. Most of the hydroxyproline of the embryo and serosa is present in a form extractable by autoclaving, probably as collagen.
1603 CEREBRAL PERFUSION PRESSURE(CPP) IN BIRTH ASPHYXIA(BA) AND ITS RELATION TO THE QUALITY OF OUTCOME

In 10 normal infants and 14 BA infants ICP changes were studied by a noninvasive technique (Iadd Monitor). Systemic BP,mean ICP and CPP(Mean BP-ICP) were calculated during acute phase(3 days) and recovery (6 days) in BA infants. 4 infants died and had evidence of brain damage and 2 of the 10 survivors had cerebral palsy (CP) at 3 years. 8 remaining survivors were normal(26-46 mos)Clinical, ICP and CPP values from normals. (Gr.I) BA with normal long term outcome(Gr.II), BA with brain damage (Gr.III) are shown below:(values mean + SE) *p 30 Torr CPP had brain damage. We conclude: A)Very low CPP in BA infants is associated with brain damage. (p=0.015, Fishers Ex.Test), B) CPP should beutilized in the management and to prognosticate the outcome.
Allometric shape change and heterochrony in the freeliving coral Trachyphyllia bilobata (Duncan)

Regression analysis has been used to study the relationship between age, size, shape, and surface area in two ancestral-descendant populations of the Neogene Caribbean coral Trachyphyllia bilobata. Analyses of the relationship between size and age show that the relationship is isometric and that little difference occurs between populations in mean corallite length or height and in their rates of growth. Onset of columella growth is significantly earlier, however, in the descendant population. Studies of the relationship between size and shape show that growth is allometric, with shape change occurring in both corallum elongation and pinching of the corallite wall during ontogeny. In the descendant population, pinching and elongation initiate earlier in the ontogeny of the coral. These results suggest that the evolutionary development of the meandroid form in freeliving corals has been accomplished by heterochrony, involving a complex set of disassociated peramorphic changes in ontogeny accompanied by paedomorphic changes in astogeny. Further analyses show that the observed heterochronic changes serve to decrease corallum surface area which may in turn enhance sediment removal and nutrition in unstable habitats.
Desipramine increases circulating growth hormone in elderly depressed patients: A pilot study

Abstract Serial blood samples were collected from 15 elderly depressed inpatients, ages 62 to 95 years, following random assignment to a 50 mg oral test dose of desmethylimipramine (DMI) or amitriptyline (AMI). Nine female and six male subjects began the 210-min study at 0800h. Serum growth hormone (hGH), cortisol, and prolactin (hPRL) were determined by radioimmunoassay. Baseline hormone concentrations were related to self and observer ratings of anxiety and depression. There was a trend for the hGH, cortisol, and hPRL concentrations to decline during the period of study. This trend for all three hormones reversed in those subjects receiving DMI, beginning approximately 90 min after drug ingestion. The DMI-induced increase of hGH reached statistical significance at the very end of the sampling period. There was an apparent latency in the DMI-induced effect for all three hormones. There was no stimulatory effect of AMI on hGH, cortisol, or hPRL. The female subjects had higher baseline hGH levels than the men. In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between baseline hPRL levels and self ratings of anxiety.
Reading the Comedia through the Eyes of Saint Thomas Aquinas: A Study of Free Will in No puede ser el guardar una mujer by Agustín Moreto

While it is relatively easy to find examples of plays that analyze men's free will from a theological perspective, with respect to female characters, authors tend to reduce the idea of freedom to a single dilemma: Should a young lady be allowed to choose a husband freely? Agustin Moreto's No puede ser el guardar una mujer, however, proposes a different approach to the subject. Moreto starts by presenting the existence of women's free will as a given and then moves to argue that it is a prerequisite to the smooth functioning of marriage, social relations, and the code of honor. In this essay, I propose a close reading of the play in connection with the philosophy of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
A Cautionary Tale on the use of GE-7031 Varnish: Low-Temperature Thermal Expansion Studies of ScF3

GE-7031 varnish, a commonly used low-temperature adhesive and electrical insulator owing to its high thermal conductivity and mechanical strength at low temperatures, was used as a sample matrix for low-temperature powder X-ray diffraction measurements of the negative thermal expansion (NTE) material ScF3. When ScF3 powder was mixed with GE-7031 varnish, an unexpected cubic to rhombohedral phase transition in the ScF3 sample was observed at ∼50 K, and it exhibited smaller low-temperature unit-cell volumes than samples without the varnish matrix. Experimental observations and quantitative estimates suggest that these anomalies are the result of stress induced by a thermal expansion mismatch between the varnish matrix (large positive coefficient of thermal expansion, CTE) and ScF3 (quite large negative CTE). The use of GE-7031 varnish as a sample matrix for low-temperature measurements should be approached with caution if a large thermal expansion mismatch is expected.
The thermodynamics of cluster formation in nucleation theory

We have derived a precise thermodynamic definition of the standard free energy to form a cluster which is used in nucleation theory. The results [Eq. (9)] have a form differing slightly from the form usually used in nucleation theory and show that the Lothe-Pound correction factor is based on a misconception concerning the standard states involved.
Identification of Agents That Promote Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Using an Assay That Monitors Luciferase Secretion

Disruption of protein processing in the secretory pathway is a measurable hallmark of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Activation of ER stress-mediated pathways has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer. To identify agents that induce ER stress, we established a screen for compounds that reduce secretion of the reporter protein Gaussia luciferase (GLUC). Given the clinically validated importance of targeting ER stress-mediated pathways in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), we used this hematological malignancy as a model for validating our screening system. From a screen of 2000 marketed drugs and natural compounds in KMS11 and ARP1 MM cells, we identified 97 agents that reduced GLUC secretion in both cell lines by at least 30%. To confirm inducers of ER stress, we applied a secondary screen that assessed splicing of the unfolded protein response (UPR) transcription factor XBP1. One agent, theaflavin-3,3'-digallate (TF-3), was chosen based on its history of safe human consumption and further validated through studies of ER stress-related pathways, including the UPR and apoptosis. Given these promising results, this screen could be a useful tool to identify agents targeting ER stress-related mechanisms in other cellular systems wherein ER stress plays a role in disease etiology.
LOOKING UP: THE TEMPORAL HORIZONS OF A FATHER IN PRISON

Studies of incarcerated men frequently describe their incapacitation as fathers. This phenomenological study challenges the notion that fathering must necessarily go dormant in prison. It provides a sensitive look at the lived experiences of one particular father who has maintained contact with his daughter over the past 18 years of his incarceration. By carefully disclosing his daughter’s presence (real and imagined) in his day to day ‘doing time’ in prison, the study explores how temporalities—the experience of presences, pasts, futures, etc.—are essential structures in the decidedly non-dormant being of fathers, and profoundly shape the way prisoners orient toward or away from life, hope, and despair. Implications for prison-based parenting and family literacy projects are discussed.
An improved method for assessing soil-fungus population density

A rapid method for determining soil fungal populations is described. A 25-g equivalent of oven-dry soil, in 225 ml of water in a 500-ml aspirator bottle, is agitated on a magnetic stirrer and samples withdrawn with a syringe while the suspension is in motion. Individual drops are placed in petri dishes and mixed with a suitable culture medium. The average weight of soil per drop is determined and colony counts related to dry weight of soil as usual. This syringe method is simple, eliminates much of the error common in serial dilution and pipetting, and allows for a high degree of reproducibility and possible standardization.
Identification of nonlinear additive FIR systems

In this paper, we consider identification of a nonlinear additive system. An input signal is designed in such a way that the problem of identification of nonlinear additive systems is reduced to a problem of identification of static nonlinear functions. Then, three approaches are established to estimate the order of the system. The methods exploit the structure of the nonlinear additive model so that their implementations are easy.
Low Plasma Prealbumln and Carotenoid Levels in Sickle Cell Disease Patients

This study was undertaken to discover whether reduced levels of micronutrients in patients with sickle cell disease are due to the generalized undernutrition. Protein undernutrition was determined by measuring plasma levels of prealbumin. One micronutrient, carotene, was also simultaneously assayed in the plasma. Eighteen sickle cell disease patients were enrolled at random. Controls were 19 normal volunteers and seven family members of the patients. The patients showed significantly reduced levels of prealbumin and carotenoids compared with either normals or family members. Levels of carotenoids did not significantly correlate with level of prealbumin, which suggests that the undernutrition was not the only factor contributing to lower levels of carotenoids in these patients.
The effect of vitiligo on sexual relationships

To study the effect of vitiligo on interference with sexual relationships, we surveyed 158 patients by questionnaire. Although a majority of patients reported a negative impact on sexual relationships, most patients felt embarrassment when showing their body or meeting strangers. The majority of patients who reported a negative impact on sexual relationships attributed the problems to their embarrassment. Those who were particularly affected were those with low self-esteem, men, those to whom appearance is important, and single persons. Dermatologists should be especially alert to the effects of disfigurement and should, attempt to assist patients with this problem.
Conditions for dislocation loop punching by helium bubbles

Abstract Under continuous helium but insufficient vacancy supply, bubbles in metals grow by pressure-driven athermal processes such as metal interstitial emission and dislocaton loop punching. To discuss the energetic conditions for these processes, the formation and interaction energies of bubbles and interstitial type metal defects are analyzed. The only condition which has been considered to date is that the decrease in the free energy of a bubble associated with the emission of an interstitial type metal defect must be equal to or larger than the formation free energy of the latter defect. Consideration of the elastic interaction energies result in additional conditions controlling loop punching for bubbles with radii larger than about 10 Burgers vectors. Possible modes for the loop punching process are discussed.
Application of uphole data from petroleum seismic surveys to groundwater investigations, Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)

Abstract Velocity data from uphole surveys were used to map the water table and the contact at the base dune sand/top alluvium as part of a joint National Drilling Company-United States Geological Survey Ground Water Research Project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. During 1981–1983, a reconnaissance seismic survey was conducted for petroleum exploration in the eastern region of Abu Dhabi. Approximately 2800 kilometers of seismic data, consisting of 92 lines, were acquired in the 2500 km2 concession area near Al Ain. Uphole surveys were conducted about 2 km apart along each seismic line, and were used to calculate weathering corrections required to further process in the seismic data. Approximately 1300 uphole surveys were completed in the concession area between March 1981 and June 1983. Reinterpretation of the velocity profiles derived from the uphole surveys provided data for determining the following subsurface layers, listed in descending order: (1) a surficial, unconsolidated weathering layer with a velocity from 300 to 450 m/s; (2) surficial dune sand, from 750 to 900 m/s; (3) unsaturated, unconsolidated alluvium, from 1000 to 1300 m/s; and (4) saturated, unconsolidated alluvium, from 1900 to 2200 m/s. Two interfaces—the water table and the base dune sand/top alluvium — were identified and mapped from boundaries between these velocity layers. Although the regional water table can fluctuate naturally as much as 3 m per year in this area and the water-table determinations from the uphole data span a 27-month period, an extremely consistent and interpretable water-table map was derived from the uphole data throughout the entire concession area. In the northern part of the area, unconfined groundwater moves northward and northwestward toward the Arabian Gulf; and in the central and southern parts of the area, groundwater moves westward away from the Oman Mountains. In the extreme southern area east of Jabal Hafit, groundwater moves southward into Oman. The map of the base dune sand/top alluvium suggests a buried paleodrainage network trending westward to southwestward away from the Oman Mountains. These paleodrainages, now buried by dune sand, probably contain alluvial fill and are logical targets for groundwater exploration.
Functional separation of deep cytoplasmic calcium from subplasmalemmal space calcium in cultured human uterine smooth muscle cells

For smooth muscle, two important functions of free intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)(i)) are modulation of plasma membrane excitability properties and modulation of the contractile apparatus. As proposed by van Breemen, Ca(2+)(i) can be divided into the subplasmalemmal space (Ca(2+)(sps)) and the deep cytosol (Ca(2+)(d)) by the superficial calcium buffer barrier. Using these distinctions, Ca(2+)(sps) activates the large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel (BK), and Ca(2+)(d) binds calcium-dependent fluorescent probes in the cytoplasm. We present here combined fluorescence-patch clamp experiments designed to simultaneously assess Ca(2+)(d) and Ca(2+)(sps) in cultured human uterine smooth muscle cells. Open probabilities (P(o)) of the BK channel were measured using the cell-attached patch clamp technique. P(o) was used to approximate changes of [Ca(2+)(sps)]. Relative concentrations of Ca(2+)(d) were approximated by observing fluorescence of Calcium green-1 (F). Under control conditions, we found similar time courses for rises of P(o) and F following 10nM oxytocin (OT) addition. In parallel experiments, but with lanthanum (La(3+)) added to the bath to block transmembrane calcium flux, P(o) was only slightly affected, but F increases were delayed and blunted. These data paradoxically indicate that following OT stimulation, the primary source of calcium for Ca(2+)(sps) is internal stores, and calcium entry from the extracellular space is required to raise Ca(2+)(d). When cells were exposed to cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) to release SR calcium stores, P(o) increased slowly, then persisted at large values. The persistence of P(o) rises suggests that removal of calcium from the subplasmalemmal space is primarily via reuptake into the SR. In the presence of La(3+), OT-induced rises of F were slightly prolonged, suggesting that transmembrane calcium flux contributes to decreasing Ca(2+)(d), but is not the primary mechanism. In summary, these data demonstrate that Ca(2+)(d) and Ca(2+)(sps) are not always intimately linked, but indicate a functional separation of the deep cytosol and the subplasmalemmal space that is consistent with the existence of a barrier to calcium diffusion between these two regions.
Making an Impression: New Media in the 2008 Presidential Nomination Campaigns

Just as radio and television revolutionized the presidential election process in earlier decades, today the “new media” are making a significant imprint on how campaigns are conducted by candidates, covered by journalists, and evaluated by the voters. While the same basic goals for campaigns apply, the tools to accomplish these goals have expanded.
Effect of Be2+ and Ni2+ ion substitution on acidity and catalytic activity of A-type zeolites

Abstract Be2+ and Ni2+ substituted zeolites were prepared by a cation exchange process. The water content in the unit cell of these zeolites was determined by thermal studies. IR spectral studies were carried out to find the effect of substitution of multivalent metal ions on the nature of the framework of the zeolites. Non-aqueous titration and ammonia desorption techniques were followed to determine the acidity of the zeolites. Introduction of the divalent cation Be2+ proportionally increases the acidity of the zeolites. Incorporation of a bulkier divalent cation Ni increases the acidity at lower concentrations (less than 3%) and decreases the acidity abnormally beyond 3%, due to the disruption of the crystalline nature of the zeolites. The catalytic activity of these zeolites for the ketonisation of acetic acid was studied and the results are concomitant with the observed acidity.
A Mechanistic and Experimental Study of Ammonia Flames

Abstract Major properties of lean to stoichiometric, ammonia-oxygen-nitrogen, atmospheric pressure flames are investigated to identify the reactions and conditions which control the conversion of the nitrogen in ammonia to NO or N2. These free (as opposed to porous plug burner- stabilized) ammonia flames are investigated over the combustible range of initial dilutions (0.0-0.5 initial N2 mole fraction) and the equivalence ratios (Φ=0.5-1.1).These flames are studied both experimentally and theoretically; the flame properties investigated are the flame speeds (ranging between 25 and 130 cm/see), temperature (2000-2700 K), major species profiles and the postflame NO concentrations (1000-70,000 ppm). The measured NO concentrations are 2-3 times greater than the equilibrium values. These free ammonia flames are calculated with detailed kinetics from the unsteady conservation equations using the recently developed G M R flame program. A flame mechanism is developed which describes the properties of these flames...
The fasciae of the face: an anatomic and histologic analysis

The face has two distinct fascial components—a superficial layer and a deep layer. The anatomy of the fasciae in relation to surgically significant vessels, nerves, and muscles is examined with anatomic and histologic specimens.
Experiential and Physiological Responses to Interpersonal Influence

In this study, we examined the linkages between two important features of influence messages, explicitness and dominance, and emotional response. Two positions were considered. From politeness theory, we deduced that judgments of the politeness of the message would mediate the effects of message form on emotional response. Consideration of cognitive appraisal theories suggested judgments of goal blockage and legitimacy would assume the role of mediators. Participants took part in two role-plays in which they adopted the role of the influence target and listened to an audiotape of a request to change their behavior. Self-report and physiological data were gathered as indicators of their emotional responses to the influence messages. The findings indicated some support for both politeness and appraisal theories, but also suggested that neither one constituted a thorough explanation of the effects of influence messages on emotions.
Resistance is futile

A new study of dominant negative functions in cells infected by a positive-strand RNA virus detects an array of locus- and allele-specific effects. Exploiting subunit defects in multi-component complex assemblies provides a new approach to identifying targets for antiviral therapies that may inhibit the emergence of drug-resistant RNA virus populations.
FMRP targets distinct mRNA sequence elements to regulate protein expression

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a multi-organ disease that leads to mental retardation, macro-orchidism in males and premature ovarian insufficiency in female carriers. FXS is also a prominent monogenic disease associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). FXS is typically caused by the loss of fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) expression, which codes for the RNA-binding protein FMRP. Here we report the discovery of distinct RNA-recognition elements that correspond to the two independent RNA-binding domains of FMRP, in addition to the binding sites within the messenger RNA targets for wild-type and I304N mutant FMRP isoforms and the FMRP paralogues FXR1P and FXR2P (also known as FXR1 and FXR2). RNA-recognition-element frequency, ratio and distribution determine target mRNA association with FMRP. Among highly enriched targets, we identify many genes involved in ASD and show that FMRP affects their protein levels in human cell culture, mouse ovaries and human brain. Notably, we discovered that these targets are also dysregulated in Fmr1(-/-) mouse ovaries showing signs of premature follicular overdevelopment. These results indicate that FMRP targets share signalling pathways across different cellular contexts. As the importance of signalling pathways in both FXS and ASD is becoming increasingly apparent, our results provide a ranked list of genes as basis for the pursuit of new therapeutic targets for these neurological disorders.
Study of Magnetic Properties of Cobalt Films Grown on GaAs (110) and Au (111) Substrates Using Ferromagnetic Resonance.

Ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) measurements on Co films of thicknesses 10–100 A grown on GaAs (110) and Au (111) substrates have been made as a function of dc magnetic field orientation in a plane perpendicular to the film. Experimental data were fitted by writing the energy density expression including uniaxial perpendicular anisotropy terms up to second order and bulk anisotropy terms. Co films grown on Au (111) substrates show consistently a higher uniaxial perpendicular anisotropy compared to those grown on GaAs (110) for the same thickness of Co. This is attributed to stress induced anisotropy due to a lattice mismatch between Au (111) and Co layers.
Controlled peeling of the surfaces of starch granules by gelatinization in aqueous dimethyl sulfoxide at selected temperatures.

Abstract Microscopic examination of starch granules in 90:10 (v/v) Me2SO–H2O indicated that the granules were slowly being gelatinized from their surfaces. The rate of gelatinization was dependent on two variables: (1) the amount of water in Me2SO and (2) the temperature. An increase of water in Me2SO and/or an increase in temperature increased the rate of gelatinization and vice versa. Specific ratios of Me2SO and H2O (85:15–95:5) and temperatures (0–15 °C) were found to give controlled sequential peeling/gelatinization of eight kinds of starch granules in 1–12 h, with amounts of 10–25% gelatinization per hour. It was observed that the percent of starch granule remaining versus time gave curves that were linear and others that had linear parts separated by one or more abrupt changes. No two starches had a similar gelatinization curve for the same two conditions of the amount of water and the temperature. It is hypothesized that these curves reflect different structural characteristics for the individual kinds of starch granules.
Massively Parallel Molecular Dynamics and Simulations for Many-Body Potentials

We discuss the implementation of classical molecular dynamics simulations on SingleInstruction Multiple-Data computers with two-dimensional mesh connectivity. Specific timing results are given for the MasPar MP-1, complemented by a general time complexity analysis. Our main interest is in simulations with a number of particles N that is comparable to the number of processors P. In particular, we discuss results for large Si-clusters with up to 2000 particles, using a Stillinger-Weber potential. Particular attention is paid to the problem of handling in an efficient way the calculation of the three-body potential and force.
Biliary excretion of novel pneumotoxic metabolites of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid, monocrotaline.

W. M. Lafranconi, S. Ohkuma and R. J. Huxtable. Biliary excretion of novel pneumotoxic metabolites of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid, monocrotaline. Toxicon23, 983–992, 1985. — Perfusion of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid, monocrotaline, through the isolated rat liver resulted in the appearance of Ehrlich-positive metabolites in both the perfusate and bile. Livers from male rats released greater quantities of metabolite into both bile and perfusate. Metabolite release was stimulated by pretreatment with phenobarbital. Livers of phenobarbital-pretreated male rats perfused with 300 μM monocrotaline produced biliary metabolite concentrations in excess of 5 mM. Metabolite release was inhibited by anoxic perfusion; low temperature and pretreatment with SKF-525A. Above 150 μM monocrotaline, bile became the predominant route of excretion. On perfusion through the isolated lung of the rat, bile and perfusate metabolites were equally effective in inhibiting serotonin transport. A single Ehrlich-positive peak was obtained on silica gel column chromatography of bile containing metabolite. Mass spectrometry revealed the major component of this peak to have a molecular weight of 281, indicating a novel pyrrole metabolite in which the esterifying acid present in monocrotaline, monocrotalic acid, had been partially degraded. This compound mimics the pneumotoxic action of monocrotaline giver, in vivo, and its availability should prove a valuable tool in the elucidation of the mechanism of pyrrolizidine toxicity.
A hybrid hardware accelerated approach for tomographic reconstruction

Cost effective reconstruction of tomographic images via off-the-shelf components is becoming more feasible as both processors and graphic card hardware continue to increase in capability and overall processing speed. We describe a hybrid CPU/graphic card approach for reconstructing CT images for fan-beam and cone-beam acquisitions. Our optimized algorithms produce results that further improve the performance of hardware accelerated approaches for image reconstruction using low-end Intel Pentium IV systems configured with commonly available low to medium end graphic cards. This paper includes a full description of our approach and a numerical performance study of the described algorithms utilizing several commonly available off-the-shelf graphics hardware boards.
Determining axial fuel-rod power-density profiles from in-core neutron flux measurements

A method is proposed for determining power-density profiles in nuclear reactor fuel rods from neutron flux measurements obtained by multiple in-core micropocket fission detectors (MPFD). A general formulation is presented that relates the power-density profiles in a reactor’s fuel rods to the flux density at detector locations. Key to this formulation is the construction of an appropriate response function that relates the flux at any position in the core to the rate at which neutrons are born at different depths in the fuel rods. In this preliminary study simple, although not unrealistic, response functions for thermal neutrons and for fast neutrons are derived and used to illustrate the analysis methods. To find the unknown power-density profiles in the fuel rods, given the measured fluxes at various locations through the core, requires inversion of an ill-posed Fredholm integral equation. With numerical quadrature, this integral equation can be converted into a (generally, underdetermined) set of algebraic equations for the power densities at various axial positions in the fuel rods. To solve these underdetermined equations, the linear regularization method is employed. Results are presented for simulated data for a single fuel rod and for multiple rods in various configurations. This preliminary study indicates that in-core flux measurements can indeed be used to infer power-density profiles in reactor fuel rods. r 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Preventing alcohol‐related harm in college students: Alcohol‐related Harm Prevention program effects on hypothesized mediating variables

The Alcohol-related Harm Prevention (AHP) program is a normative education and skillacquisition program designed to reduce serious, long-term alcohol-related harm in college students. Without admonishing students not to drink, which is likely to fail in many student populations, the AHP program attempts to give students the necessary perceptions, motivation and skills to intervene within their peer group, and to make proactive harm-avoidance plans with friends prior to social occasions that involve using alcohol. The AHP program is a two-session, in-class intervention that corrects misperceived norms regarding levels of alcohol use, caring about friends, acceptability of risky behaviors and willingness to intervene. The program also makes use of interactive discussions with students and a graded, peer interview assignment to identify and promote harmprevention strategies. The AHP program was implemented during fall 1999 at a large northeastern university. The program was received very well by students and showed significant effects on the proximal outcomes hypothesized to mediate more distal health-relevant outcomes.
X-ray crystallographic imaging

X-ray crystallography is the dominant method for measuring the relative positions in three-dimensional space of each atom in a molecule. This information has long been crucial for many scientific purposes and is increasingly important for the rational design of drugs. The X-ray scattering is the Fourier transform of the electron density. However, only the intensity and not the phase of the scattering can be measured. Therefore, the signal processing is fundamentally phase retrieval. The situation is complicated, however, by the three-dimensional nature of the problem and the periodicity of the crystal. In this paper the underlying physics is sketched, a variety of crystallographic experiments and the resulting types of multidimensional signal processing are described, and the application to drug design is outlined. >
Thiamin uptake by pancreatic acinar cells: effect of chronic alcohol feeding/exposure

Thiamin is important for normal function of pancreatic acinar cells, but little is known about its mechanism of uptake and about the effect of chronic alcohol use on the process. We addressed these...
ZipA Is Required for Targeting of DMinC/DicB, but Not DMinC/MinD, Complexes to Septal Ring Assemblies in Escherichia coli

The MinC division inhibitor is required for accurate placement of the septal ring at the middle of the Escherichia coli cell. The N-terminal domain of MinC (ZMinC) interferes with FtsZ assembly, while the C-terminal domain (DMinC) mediates both dimerization and complex formation with either MinD or DicB. Binding to either of these activators greatly enhances the division-inhibitory activity of MinC in the cell. The MinD ATPase plays a crucial role in the rapid pole-to-pole oscillation of MinC that is proposed to force FtsZ ring formation to midcell. DicB is encoded by one of the cryptic prophages on the E. coli chromosome (Qin) and is normally not synthesized. Binding of MinD or DicB to DMinC produces complexes that have high affinities for one or more septal ring-associated targets. Here we show that the FtsZ-binding protein ZipA is required for both recruitment of the DMinC/DicB complex to FtsZ rings and the DicB-inducible division block normally seen in MinC+ cells. In contrast, none of the known FtsZ-associated factors, including ZipA, FtsA, and ZapA, appear to be specifically required for targeting of the DMinC/MinD complex to rings, implying that the two MinC/activator complexes must recognize distinct features of FtsZ assemblies. MinD-dependent targeting of MinC may occur in two steps of increasing topological specificity: (i) recruitment of MinC from the cytoplasm to the membrane, and (ii) specific targeting of the MinC/MinD complex to nascent septal ring assemblies on the membrane. Using membrane-tethered derivatives of MinC, we obtained evidence that both of these steps contribute to the efficiency of MinC/MinD-mediated division inhibition.
Novel Biosensor Based on Electrospun Nanofiber and Magnetic Nanoparticles for the Detection of E. coli O157:H7

A lateral-flow immunobiosensor is developed based on electrospun nanofibers and conductive magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for rapid detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria. The magnetic nanoparticles are bioconjugated with antibody specific to E. coli O157:H7 to act as immunomagnetic separator to extract and purify the target from the sample solution. The cellulose nitrate nanofibers are synthesized using electrospinning technique to form unwoven biocompatible membrane with optimized nanoporous structure and excellent capillary properties. The nanofibrous membrane is biochemically functionalized with E. coli antibody to act as biosensor capture pad. Due to high surface area and unique nanostructure, the conductive pathogen/nanoparticle complex in the purified solution is effectively captured on the nanofiber membrane by antibody-antigen binding. The unbound nanoparticles and impurities are absorbed in the following cellulose membrane by capillary action. When the flow equilibrium is achieved, the resistance signal of the electrospun membrane is measured by a portable sensing platform, which indicates the pathogen concentration in the sample solution. This novel biosensor was capable to detect E. coli O157:H7 bacteria as low as 67 CFU/mL in a total detection time of 8 min. The test results demonstrate linear sensing response range of 101-104 CFU/mL, which is higher than that using nitrocellulose porous membrane under the same analytical conditions. This sensitive and low-cost biosensor fabricated using electrospun technology is fast and reliable, which can be used for on-field biodefense and food and water safety applications.
IV. A Biseriate Halonial Branch of Lepidophloios fuliginosus.

IN the autumn of 1898 I purchased from Mr. James Lomax an Halonia, together with an excellent series of transverse and longitudinal sections prepared by him from the same specimen and which showed the tissues to be very well preserved. From an examination of the latter Mr. Lomax had rightly identified the plant with that described by “Williamson originally (1873) as Lepidodendron Karconrtii, but afterwards renamed Lepidodendron fuliginosum (1887).
A distal promoter region of the rice seed storage protein glutelin gene enhanced quantitative gene expression

We have demonstrated previously that a distal promoter region of the rice seed storage protein glutelin (Gt1) gene plays a role in increasing the quantitative level of gene expression. To determine the approximate location of cis-acting elements, if any, for the increased promoter activity, 18 progressive 5"- or internal deletions were introduced into the distal promoter region between!5.1 k and!507 relative to the transcription initiation site. The deleted promoters were fused to the coding sequence of!-glucuronidase (GUS) gene, and the fusion genes were introduced via protoplasts into homologous rice plants. GUS activities were assayed in developing seeds and vegetative organs of mature plants containing wild-type and mutant constructs. The results showed that the 4.6 kb-long wild-type distal promoter enhanced the quantitative level of GUS reporter gene by nearly 100-fold and also increased the frequency of plants showing high levels of expression. Any deletions from the 4.6 kb distal promoter region reduced the GUS activity but no distinct element was evident within the region by this analysis. We suggest that the distal promoter region may form a favorable chromatin structure to maximize the quantitative level of the glutelin gene expression. This finding also has an important practical implication in using the glutelin gene promoter to achieve a high expression level of introduced gene products in transgenic plants. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.
Magnetoelectroporation: improved labeling of neural stem cells and leukocytes for cellular magnetic resonance imaging using a single FDA-approved agent

Cellular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relies on the use of intracellular contrast agents, primarily iron oxide compounds. Several techniques have been used to efficiently shuttle iron oxides into nonphagocytic cells, but all methods used until now require a prolonged incubation of cells. We hypothesized that instant magnetic labeling of cells could be achieved using electroporation. Neural stem cells (NSCs) and leukocytes from spleen and lymph nodes were suspended in a ferumoxide labeling solution, loaded into cuvettes, and subjected to electromechanical permeabilization using electroporation. Magnetically labeled cells were assayed for labeling efficiency, as well as for potential toxicity or altered function. To confirm the method's applicability to detect cells, MRI experiments were performed at 11.7 T. Magnetoelectroporation of NSCs, as demonstrated by Prussian blue staining, anti-dextran immunostaining, and a quantitative iron uptake assay, proved to be an efficient intracellular magnetic labeling method. Leukocytes including lymphocytes, which are notoriously difficult to label because of their membrane properties and small cytoplasmic volume, also demonstrated a pronounced uptake of ferumoxide. MRI experiments showed that labeled NSCs could be visualized as single cells and cell clusters in gelatin phantoms, and as proliferating cell masses in mouse brain. We have developed a convenient technique for instant magnetic labeling of cells. Because magnetoelectroporation allows the use of ferumoxides approved by the US Food and Drug Administration without additional agents, it has excellent potential for clinical translation.
Empirical Investigation of Twice-Exceptionality: Where Have We Been and Where Are We Going?:

Gifted students with coexisting disabilities, also known as twice-exceptional, are increasingly recognized in America's schools. This increasing awareness needs to be met with equal enthusiasm for empirical investigation into the identification and treatment needs of this group of students. In this article, a 20-year review of the empirical literature examining twice-exceptionality, specifically gifted students with learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or autism spectrum disorder, was conducted. Research strongly suggests that gifted students can have a coexisting disability and that comprehensive, individualized approaches toward diagnosis are necessary. Less is known about effective treatments and interventions that simultaneously highlight strengths and accommodate for areas of growth. Future research directions are offered that ideally will encourage scholars to discover more about effective diagnostic and intervention techniques for this very important group of gifted learners. Putting the Research to Use The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of the last 20 years of empirical research examining gifted students with specific learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or autism spectrum disorders. Scholars can extrapolate from this summary a research agenda that will move the field forward in the pursuit of empirically validated identification and intervention techniques with twice-exceptional learners. Educators are encouraged to use this information when developing gifted identification protocols in schools, accommodation plans for twice-exceptional students, and interventions that target specific strength and growth areas. Finally, parents of twice-exceptional learners can reference the empirical studies summarized as they search for research-based approaches to helping their child.
Quantum noise in a solitonlike repeater system

It is shown that in the limit when the amplifier spacing in an all-optical amplifier–repeater system is much smaller than a soliton period, an equivalent nonlinear Schrodinger equation can be developed. It contains noise sources that account for the noise introduced by the attenuation and the amplifiers. The limit on soliton propagation caused by amplifier noise, as formulated by Gordon and Haus [ Opt. Lett.11, 665 ( 1986)], becomes rigorous for this system.
Comercio Justo and Justice: An Examination of Fair Trade

The paper examines the theoretical basis of fair trade as justice. Grounded largely in the work of Amartya Sen, it looks at the origins, motivations, and elements of fair trade. Fair trade is exami...