cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Laser ultrasonic techniques for assessment of tooth structure

Dental health care and research workers require a means of imaging the structures within teeth in vivo. For example, there is a need to image the margins of a restoration for the detection of poor bonding or voids between the restorative material and the dentin. With conventional x-ray techniques, it is difficult to detect cracks and to visualize interfaces between hard media. This due to the x-ray providing only a 2 dimensional projection of the internal structure (i.e. a silhouette). In addition, a high resolution imaging modality is needed to detect tooth decay in its early stages. If decay can be detected early enough, the process can be monitored and interventional procedures, such as fluoride washes and controlled diet, can be initiated which can help the tooth to re-mineralize itself. Currently employed x-ray imaging is incapable of detecting decay at a stage early enough to avoid invasive cavity preparation followed by a restoration with a synthetic material. Other clinical applications include the visualization of periodontal defects, the localization of intraosseous lesions, and determining the degree of osseointegration between a dental implant and the surrounding bone. A means of assessing the internal structure of the tooth based upon use of high frequency, highly localized ultrasound (acoustic waves) generated by a laser pulse is discussed. Optical interferometric detection of ultrasound provides a complementary technique with a very small detection footprint. Initial results using laser-based ultrasound for assessment of dental structures are presented. Discussion will center on the adaptability of this technique to clinical applications.
Desequilibrio negocial y debilitamiento del actor sindical como efectos de la reforma laboral

This article offers an account of the effects and consequences of the recent Labour Reform, its impact on the collective bargaining system and its social implications. The hypothesis is based in the context of deep and intense economic crisis, where the adopted measures have caused a catastrophe and have come to dramatically worsen the existing precarious working conditions affecting many sectors and large groups of workers. To these trend is added the intense pressures to consolidate a new balance of power between the social partners, and also stands a real modification of the social actors because the labour relations rules are changed
CHLOROPHYLL-A DERIVATIVES IN PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY : EFFECT OF POSITION OF HEPTYL ETHER SIDE-CHAINS ON IN VIVO PHOTOSENSITIZING ACTIVITY

Abstract Syntheses and comparative in vivo photosensitizing efficacy of a series of chlorophyll-a derivatives with (1-heptyloxyethyl) substituents at various positions are discussed. Compared with Photofrin®, the n-heptyl ether analogues showed better in vivo sensitizing activity (DBA/2 mice transplanted with SMT/F tumors) as well as reduced skin phototoxicity. The Vilsmeier formylation of copper(II) methyl mesopyropheophorbide-a 11 did not produce the expected meso-formyl derivative 12 , but instead gave the α,β-unsaturated chloroformyl analogue 13 as the major product.
Development of reusable high-molecular-weight-high-density polyethylene crash cushions

The development of a family of low-maintenance, reusable crash cushions that employ energy dissipaters made of high-molecular-weight—high-density polyethylene is described. This "smart" energy dissipating thermoplastic is self-restorative and reusable and possesses excellent hysteresis characteristics. The design process involved quasi-static and impact scale model experiments, finite-element modeling, and a full-scale crash testing program conducted according to the guidelines of NCHRP Report 350. A treatment of all of these design components is presented. It is demonstrated that scale model experiments and finite-element modeling are cost-effective tools whose employment can minimize the number of costly full-scale crash tests required to qualify devices as acceptable for use on the National Highway System.
Collective potential-energy surfaces in heavy-ion reactions

Abstract Multidimensional potential-energy surfaces have been calculated for heavy-ion reactions as a function of separation (or elongation), neck-formation and mass-asymmetry collective degrees of freedom. The reactions Ar + Ag, Kr + Cu, Kr + Bi and Xe + Bi, of current interest, are considered as examples. The effects of the entrance channel asymmetry and the total charge and angular momentum of the system are studied in detail, using the rotational liquid-drop model in an asymmetric twocenter parameterization of nuclear shapes. Several aspects of these multidimensional energy surfaces are investigated : The fusion-fission process, the fusion barriers, the saddle-point shapes and implications for the reaction mechanisms involved. Systematics in the neck and mass-asymmetry degrees of freedom are deduced for the configurations of interest along probable collision paths. The results are also compared and contrasted with the one-dimensional picture of the potential energy as a function of the separation coordinate. Aside from the dynamical aspects of the problem, the variety of the reaction mechanisms involved in heavy-ion reactions can be traced in the topography of the potential-energy surfaces and can be reasonably understood in the collective approach considered.
Evidence for a selective localization of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels in nerve cell bodies of corpus striatum.

Specific binding sites for [3H]nitrendipine, an organic Ca2+ channel antagonist, were abolished in crude syn-aptosomal membranes of kainic acid-lesioned caudate nuclei. In contrast, specific lesions of dopaminergic or serotonergic axon terminals in caudate nuclei failed to alter the density or the affinity of [3H]nitrendipine binding sites. In addition, the basal and veratridine-stimulated 45Ca2+ accumulations were greatly impaired in slices prepared from kainic acid-lesioned caudate nuclei. The veratridine-elicited accumulation of 45Ca2+ in control slices was attenuated by addition of tetrodotoxin in the incubation medium. The present data provide evidence that most of the [3H]nitrendipine binding sites and the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels are located in intrinsic neurons or interneurons in caudate nucleus. In contrast, destruction of dopaminergic or serotonergic nerve terminals emanating from other brain areas and innervating the caudate nucleus failed to change the apparent Bmax value for [3H]nitrendipine binding.
Why is there an ERN/Ne on correct trials? Response representations, stimulus-related components, and the theory of error-processing

The ERN or Ne is a component of the event-related brain potential that occurs when human subjects make errors in reaction time tasks. It is observed in response-locked averages, time-locked to the execution of the incorrect response. Recent research has reported that this component is present on correct response trials, thereby challenging the idea that the component is specifically related to error-processing. In this paper, we argue that the ERN or Ne observed on correct trials can be attributed to one or both of two factors: either there is error-processing on correct trials, and/or the response-locked averages used to derive the ERN/Ne are contaminated by negative components evoked by the stimulus. For this reason, there is no reason to abandon theories that relate the ERN/Ne to error-processing.
Gene transfer of lacZ into avian neural tube and neural crest cells by retroviral infection of grafted embryonic tissues.

We describe here a new method for transferring genes into cells of the neural tube and neural crest of early avian embryos in vivo. Using the marker gene lacZ as an example, we infected dissected neural tubes from Hamburger-Hamilton stage 12–13 quail embryos with a replication-defective retrovirus carrying lacZ during a 2 hr period of exposure to the virus in culture. Infected neural tubes were then grafted into uninfected host chicken embryos in ovo and, after continued development for several days, the chimeric embryos were processed for β-galactosidase histochemistry to identify the progeny of infected cells. We show that virus-infected neural tubes grafted isotopically into the trunk region of host embryos gave rise to cells of both the spinal cord and neural crest. Infected neural crest cells localized within dorsal root ganglia, sympathetic ganglia, peripheral nerves, and within the skin, where they were likely to give rise to melanocytes. These data are consistent with those using other cell marking techniques applied to the neural crest, indicating that retrovirus infection in culture, grafting, and β-galactosidase expression has a neutral effect on neural crest cell migration and localization. These results indicate the heterospecific grafting of early avian tissues infected with retroviruses carrying foreign genes may be an effective strategy for testing the biological role of various gene products during development. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ab initio F-center electron topology in LiF

Abstract Nonempirical quantum computations based on a cluster model are employed to study the detailed electronic distributions of the ground and first excited electronic states of the F center in crystalline LiF. We determine the degree of localization, as well as the radial and angular electron distributions, for the ground and first excited electronic state. In agreement with prior studies, the unpaired electron in the ground state is found to be primarily localized in the center of the defect. It is nearly spherical with an approximately Gaussian radial distribution. The first T1u state however shows the unpaired electron to be almost completely delocalized into the crystal lattice. We report the T1u ← A1g vertical transition energy and the unpaired electron densities at the nuclei in the first three shells of surrounding ions. These results are in satisfactory agreement with experimental UV absorption data and ENDOR measurements.
Design of the minicomputer UHC-1

This article describes a student effort undertaken during the spring of 1970 at the University of Hawaii, Honolulu, on the complete design of a minicomputer, the UHC-1. The computer is a 16-bit, 4K, microprogrammed machine with Teletype interface. In this short paper our attention is focussed on the effort as an educational experience rather than on the details of the design itself. An evaluation in terms of the educational benefits of the project is given.
Lack of neurotrophin-3 leads to deficiencies in the peripheral nervous system and loss of limb proprioceptive afferents

Neurotrophin-3-deficient (NT-3-deficient) mice were generated by gene targeting. Mutant mice displayed severe movement defects of the limbs, and most died shortly after birth. Substantial portions of peripheral sensory and sympathetic neurons were lost while motor neurons were not affected. Significantly, spinal proprioceptive afferents and their peripheral sense organs (muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs) were completely absent in homozygous mutant mice. This correlated with a loss of parvalbumin and carbonic anhydrase-positive neurons in the dorsal root ganglion. No gross abnormalities were seen in Pacinian corpuscles, cutaneous afferents containing substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide, and deep nerve fibers in the joint capsule and tendon. Importantly, the number of muscle spindles in heterozygous mutant mice was half of that in control mice, indicating that NT-3 is present at limiting concentrations in the embryo.
Combining Psychological and Engineering Approaches to Utilizing Social Robots with Children with Autism

It is estimated that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 68 children. Early identification of an ASD is exceedingly important to the introduction of an intervention. We are developing a robot-assisted approach that will serve as an improved diagnostic and early intervention tool for children with autism. The robot, named PABI® (Penguin for Autism Behavioral Interventions), is a compact humanoid robot taking on an expressive cartoon-like embodiment. The robot is affordable, durable, and portable so that it can be used in various settings including schools, clinics, and the home. Thus enabling significantly enhanced and more readily available diagnosis and continuation of care. Through facial expressions, body motion, verbal cues, stereo vision-based tracking, and a tablet computer, the robot is capable of interacting meaningfully with an autistic child. Initial implementations of the robot, as part of a comprehensive treatment model (CTM), include Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy where the child interacts with a tablet computer wirelessly interfaced with the robot. At the same time, the robot makes meaningful expressions and utterances and uses stereo cameras in eyes to track the child, maintain eye contact, and collect data such as affect and gaze direction for charting of progress. In this paper we present the clinical justification, anticipated usage with corresponding requirements, prototype development of the robotic system, and demonstration of a sample application for robot-assisted ABA therapy.
NADPH Oxidase-Dependent Signaling in Endothelial Cells: Role in Physiology and Pathophysiology

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) including superoxide (O(2)(.-)) and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) are produced endogenously in response to cytokines, growth factors; G-protein coupled receptors, and shear stress in endothelial cells (ECs). ROS function as signaling molecules to mediate various biological responses such as gene expression, cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and senescence in ECs. Signal transduction activated by ROS, "oxidant signaling," has received intense investigation. Excess amount of ROS contribute to various pathophysiologies, including endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The major source of ROS in EC is a NADPH oxidase. The prototype phagaocytic NADPH oxidase is composed of membrane-bound gp91phox and p22hox, as well as cytosolic subunits such as p47(phox), p67(phox) and small GTPase Rac. In ECs, in addition to all the components of phagocytic NADPH oxidases, homologues of gp91(phox) (Nox2) including Nox1, Nox4, and Nox5 are expressed. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the emerging area of ROS derived from NADPH oxidase and oxidant signaling in ECs linked to physiological and pathophysiological functions. Understanding these mechanisms may provide insight into the NADPH oxidase and oxidant signaling components as potential therapeutic targets.
Rare complete loss of function provides insight into a pleiotropic genome-wide association study locus

To the editor: Recent genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of hematological traits have consistently found strong associations between the HBS1L - MYB intergenic region on 6q23 and a number of clinically significant hematologic traits, including fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels, red blood cell
Augmenting design patterns with design rationale

Present-day software applications are increasingly required to be “reuse-conscious” in terms of the operating platforms, topology, and evolutionary requirements. Traditionally, there has been much difficulty in communicating specialized knowledge like design intents, design recommendations, and design justifications in the discipline of software engineering. This paper presents a methodology based on the combination of design rationale and design patterns to design reusable software systems. Design rationale is the representation of the reasoning behind the design of an artifact. Design patterns are descriptions of communicating objects and classes that are customized to solve a general design problem in a particular context. The paper details the use of an explicit software development process to capture and disseminate the specialized knowledge (i.e., intents, recommendations, and justifications) that augments the description of the cases in a library (i.e., design patterns) during the development of software applications by heterogeneous groups. The importance of preserving and using this specialized knowledge has become apparent with the growing trend of combining the software development process with the product (i.e., software code). The importance of codifying corporate memory in this regard is also important considering the changing nature of the workplace, where more people are on contract. The information on how and why a software code was developed becomes essential for efficient and smooth continuity of the present software project as well as for reusing the code in future projects. It has become essential to capture the design rationale to develop and design software systems efficiently and reliably. The software prototype developed using the combined methodology will be used as a part of an integrated design environment for reusable software design. This environment supports collaborative development of software applications by a group of software specialists from a library of building block cases represented by design patterns.
Stalking Victimization Among College Women and Subsequent Help-Seeking Behaviors

Objective: The authors examined the incidence of stalking victimization and subsequent help-seeking behaviors among college women. Participants and Methods: A stratified random sample of college women (N = 391) completed an anonymous Internet-based questionnaire in spring 2006. Results: One-fifth of women reported stalking victimization while enrolled at their current institution. Individuals known by victims, such as the following, were most commonly reported as stalkers: acquaintances (48.7%), classmates (37.2%), and boyfriends or ex-boyfriends (34.6%). Approximately half of the women reporting stalking victimization acknowledged not seeking help from anyone in relation to these incidents. Of those seeking some sort of help, most sought assistance from friends (90.2%), parents (29.3%), residence hall advisors (12.2%), or police (7.3%). Conclusion: Comparing their findings to a national study of college women, the authors report that being watched, followed or spied on, and sent unsolicited emails are st...
Colorectal cancer detection with the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope in a solo general internist's office.

Emphasis is placed on the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer by the primary care physician using the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope. A training format for this procedure is proposed. The author, trained according to this format, found 49 polyps and three carcinomas among his first 365 randomly chosen patients. Of these 317 (87%) were asymptomatic, having no risk factors. The average distance of insertion was 53 cm and the average examination time was 20 minutes. The calculated cost for these 365 patients was approximately $60,000, and the estimated average cost for a potentially curable colorectal cancer detection was approximately $20,000. Although a relatively long examination time may be necessary for the beginner, the author concludes that the primary care physician can be readily trained to handle the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope safely and cost effectively.
Induction of plant tissue neoplasms in vitro by substituted fluorenes.

Abstract Methyl-2-chloro-9-hydroxyfluorene-9-carboxylate (MeCl-F) and acetylaminofluorene (AAF) induced neoplastic growth in tobacco callus cultures. In the presence of auxin and cytokinin the fluorene derivatives caused the formation of compact tissue nodules at concentrations between 0.02 and 12.5 μM . The tumors were composed of heterogeneous cell populations with regard to their hormone habituation,but in each case cells completely autonomous for exogenous auxin and cytokinin were detected and subcultured. Tissues transformed by MeCl-F and AAF have been continuously grown on hormone-free media, for approx. 18 and 6 months, respectively, without loss in vigor.
On minimizing width in linear layouts

A (linear) layout of an undirected graph G is a one-to-one function mapping the vertices of G to integers. The cutwidth of G under a linear layout L, denoted by cw(G,L), is the maximum, taken over all possible i, of the number of edges connecting vertices assigned to integers less than i to vertices assigned to integers at least as large as i. The cutwidth of a graph G, denoted by cw(G), is the minimum of cw(G,L), taken over all possible linear layouts L. The problem of determining the cutwidth of a graph, called the Min Cut Linear Arrangement problem, has applications in VLSI, for example in the minimization of interconnection channels in Weinberger arrays [16].
Alkali metal binding energies of dibenzo-18-crown-6: experimental and computational results

Abstract We have experimentally bracketed the gas phase Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ affinities of dibenzo-18-crown-6 in the order 15- crown -5 (15 C 5) dibenzo -18- crown -6 ( DB 18 C 6) crown -6 (18 C 6) . Comparison with published experimental threshold collision-induced dissociation measurements yields enthalpies of binding at 298 K (in kJ mol−1) as follows: DB18C6·Na+, −299±26; DB18C6·K+, −221±19; DB18C6·Rb+, −154±38; DB18C6·Cs+, −136±35 (experimental values for the bracketing ligands binding Li+ are not available). Thus, dibenzo substitution of the crown makes it a weaker ligand toward the alkali metal ions, in contrast to dicyclohexano substitution, which was previously shown to make the crown a stronger ligand toward all the alkali metal ions. We have also calculated the enthalpies of binding between these metal ions and DB18C6 using both the LANL2DZ basis set and a modified version of the 6-31+G∗ basis set wherein diffuse functions are removed from carbon atoms and the K+, Rb+, and Cs+ basis functions are those of the Hay–Wadt (n+1) effective core potential set. Full geometry optimizations were carried out at the HF/6-31+G∗ and HF/LANL2DZ levels of theory, and energies were also calculated for the HF/6-31+G∗ geometries at the MP2(full)/6-31+G∗ and B3LYP/6-31+G∗ levels. The computed enthalpies of binding for the K+, Rb+, and Cs+ complexes of DB18C6 fall between computed values in the literature for 15C5 and 18C6 complexes at both HF/6-31+G∗ and MP2(full)/6-31+G∗ levels, in good agreement with our bracketing experiments. The values at both levels of theory for the DB18C6 complexes of Li+ and Na+ are larger than those in the literature for both 15C5 and 18C6; the reasons for this discrepancy are not clear.
vConductor: An NFV management solution for realizing end-to-end virtual network services

NFV, being discussed and standardized in ETSI, is regarded as a promising candidate technology for Future Networks. Although many advantages are expected, the introduction of NFV will greatly challenge current management systems. In this paper, we summarize some of the carrier's requirements for the management of NFV, based on which we propose vConductor as an NFV management solution. We say vConductor is innovative due to its characteristics of automatic service provisioning, end-to-end inventory management, and generic system design. To achieve these goals, we design a completely modular-based system structure and refine the process of provisioning a virtual network service. Furthermore, we propose a general data model, specifically for NFV, starting from the TM Forum SID. We believe that vConductor will be a catalyst for accelerating the industrialization of NFV.
Servant Leadership as a Teachable Ethical Concept.

This paper considers a different approach for developing ethical organizations. It argues that the practice of servant leadership provides a systematic training approach that should develop a more ethical culture. Servant leadership can serve as a “character ethic” that is teachable to individuals or organizations. The advantages and potential problems of using servant leadership as a basic organizational ethic are examined. A key advantage of servant leadership is that it might improve both the ethical climate and the internal work environment of an organization. Finally, the paper considers ethical scorecards that should show that companies currently practicing servant leadership tend to be more ethical.
Volunteer Dynamics of Older Americans

Objectives. The impending retirement of boomers has spurred interest in tapping their productive energies to benefi t society. This study examined volunteer transitions among older adults to understand the factors that affect volunteer dynamics. Methods. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, the analysis examined entries into and exits from formal volunteer activities between 1996 and 2004 by adults aged 55 – 65 at study baseline. The study showed the duration of volunteer activities, the probability that older adults start and stop volunteering, and the factors that signifi cantly predict volunteer transitions. Results. The fi ndings reveal considerable stability among both volunteers and nonvolunteers; however, older adults are more likely to stop volunteering than to start. Volunteers who contribute intensely and for many years and who are married to volunteers are the least likely to quit. And nonvolunteers are more likely to start volunteering if they have been uninvolved for few years and their spouses volunteer. Conclusions. The results point to the need to focus efforts on retaining older volunteers to maximize volunteer engagement during later years. Recruiting older adults in volunteer activities early on, ideally before they retire, could also help meet volunteer needs.
Resection of Aortic Arch Aneurysms: A Comparison of Hypothermic Techniques in 60 Patients

Abstract Hypothermic circulatory arrest has been used to facilitate resection of aneurysms of the aortic arch. During a five-year period, two methods of hypothermic arrest were compared in 60 patients. In Group 1, 20 patients underwent deep hypothermia (14° to 18°C) and circulatory arrest to allow repair of the transverse arch under optimal conditions. A hospital mortality of 50% occurred and was attributed to uncontrolled hemorrhage and cerebral or cardiac complications. In Group 2, modified techniques were employed in 40 patients and included moderate levels of hypothermia (22°C to 26°C) and simplified operative methods, which reduced the duration of circulatory arrest and shortened the length of perfusion. Pre-treatment of plasma-soaked Dacron grafts by auto-claving eliminated serious bleeding problems. A marked improvement in patient survival (90%) and reduction in postoperative complications were observed after adoption of these modifications. The improved results in the present series have reconfirmed our belief that this type of intervention is the preferred approach to aneurysms of the aortic arch.
On the Effect of Antenna Height on the Characterization of the Indoor UWB Channel

Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is being proposed for several short range wireless applications. Some of the applications, such as position location devices for rescue personnel, may require the antenna height to be close to the ground. In scenarios where the antenna height is very low (from 0 to 30 cm), propagation characteristics and channel modeling are needed to provide important insights for the application design. This paper presents time-domain measurements and channel characterization of the indoor UWB channel at three different antenna heights (7.5 cm, 26.5 cm, and 108.5 cm). The transmitting and receiving antennas are placed at heights referred to as near ground, middle ground, and above ground. The effects of the antenna height on the channel characteristics are analyzed. Both large and small-scale characteristics are evaluated and the results for different antenna heights are compared. The results show that large scale characteristics exhibit monotonic behavior with respect to antenna height while small scale characteristics do not follow this behavior. The possible explanations for the obtained results are also discussed.
The Role of Postchemotherapy Surgery in Germ Cell Tumors

Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection after chemotherapy has a proved role in the staging and treatment of metastatic testicular cancer. Complete removal of all postchemotherapy residual masses in nonseminomatous germ cell tumor should be performed. Complete removal of positron emission tomography-avid masses greater than 3 cm in pure seminoma should be performed. Outcomes depend on patient selection and extent of surgery.
Pathogenesis, Management, and Consequences of Primary Graft Dysfunction

Primary graft dysfunction continues to be a major contributing factor to morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. This condition is presumed to be the result of ischemia-reperfusion injury, which is associated with the release of endogenous substances that can activate the innate immune system. Primary graft dysfunction has been shown to be an independent risk factor for the development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome indicating that it can shape alloimmune responses. In this review, we focus on the classification, pathogenesis, possible prevention strategies, management and consequences of primary graft dysfunction.
Endothelin-1 expression in long-term cultures of fetal rat calvarial osteoblasts: Regulation by BMP-7

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a vasoactive peptide that modulates bone metabolism via regulatory effects on osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and osteoclasts. While ET-1 may circulate in the blood stream, tissue-specific expression of this peptide is more physiologically relevant. In the present study we measured ET-1 synthesis in sections of fetal rat calvaria (FRC) and in cultured FRC osteoblasts. Regulation of ET-1 synthesis in FRC osteoblasts by bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) also was examined. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed ET-1 staining in calvarial osteoblasts, endothelial cells, and osteocytes. ET-1 mRNA expression was detected in cultured FRC cells and ET-1 peptide was present in conditioned media. During long-term culture of FRC cells (26 days) ET-1 peptide production rose sharply and peaked during the time of cellular proliferation (Days 0–3) then returned to baseline levels by Day 18, when mineralized nodules were forming. Treatment of FRC cells with BMP-7 enhanced ET-1 levels by three-fold on Day 3 and enhanced nodule formation by 15-fold on Day 26. To determine whether ET-1 was involved in an autocrine manner in BMP-7-induced nodule formation, cells were cultured in the presence of BMP-7 and BQ-123, an ETA receptor antagonist. BQ-123 had no effect on nodule formation in control or BMP-7-treated cells, indicating that osteoblast-derived ET-1 regulates other cell types in vivo during the bone formation process. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effects of Hypertension and Diabetes on Sentence Comprehension in Aging

Objectives. To assess the impact of hypertension and diabetes mellitus on sentence comprehension in older adults. Method. Two hundred and ninety-five adults aged 55 to 84 (52% men) participated in this study. Self-report mail survey combined with medical evaluations were used to determine eligibility. Multiple sources were used to determine whether hypertension and diabetes were present or absent and controlled or uncontrolled. Sentence comprehension was evaluated with two tasks: embedded sentences (ES) and sentences with multiple negatives (MN). Outcome measures were percent accuracy and mean reaction time of correct responses on each task. Results. Regression models adjusted for age, gender, and education showed that the presence of hypertension impaired comprehension on the multiple negatives task ( p < .01), whereas the presence of diabetes impaired the comprehension of embedded sentences ( p < .05). Uncontrolled diabetes significantly impaired accurate comprehension of sentences with multiple negatives ( p < .05). No significant patterns were found for reaction time. Discussion. The presence of hypertension and diabetes adversely affected sentence comprehension, but the relative contribution of each was different. These findings support the researchers’ earlier speculations on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of hypertension and diabetes on language and cognition in aging. Uncontrolled disease status demonstrated more complicated age-related effects on sentence processing, highlighting the clinical impor tance for cognitive aging of identifying and managing vascular risk factors.
Treatment of keloid sternotomy scars with 585 nm flashlamp-pumped pulsed-dye laser

Despite increasing knowledge of wound healing and collagen metabolism, hypertrophic scars and keloid scars are difficult to eradicate. Median sternotomy scars are often hypertrophic or keloidal. We treated them with a 585 nm flashlamp-pumped pulsed-dye laser, which selectively injures cutaneous microvessels without inducing scars. 16 adult patients with hypertrophic or keloidal median sternotomy scars after heart surgery received two treatments to one half of their previously untreated scars every 6-8 weeks and were reviewed at 6 months. Symptoms and clinical, histological, photographic, and surface texture assessments were obtained for treated and untreated areas of scar and evaluated independently by two observers blind to the treatment and by digital image analysis of skin surface casts. There was a significant improvement in erythema, scar height, skin surface texture, and pruritus in laser-treated scar areas; this improvement persisted for at least 6 months.
Efficient pulsed power generation

A highly efficient pulsed power generator is modeled and developed to drive a single-stage plasmoid thruster. The pulsed power generator is characterized by its energy being stored in capacitors. This energy can be released in the form of pulsed power to the thruster coils by means of fast response switching devices. The conventional approach in pulsed power design results in producing a “ringing” effect due to the back and forth transfers of energy between the capacitors and the coils. A modification of the pulsed power generator design by the introduction of diodes eliminates the ringing and the associated wastage of energy. Preliminary results based on a small-scale experimental model indicate that the approach is viable and can produce highly efficient repetitive single pulse power for thruster applications.
The effect of zinc oxide eugenol cement on penicillin.

Abstract Penicillin is affected by either eugenol or zinc oxide-eugenol cement. The extent in the reduction of the potency of low- and high-unit concentrations varies. Low-unit dilutions lose most or all of their inhibitory activity towards Staphylococcus aureus , whereas the higher-unit concentrations, though affected, still possess definite growth-restraining action.
Structure property correlations in Ce-doped garnet phosphors for use in solid state lighting

Abstract The discovery of inorganic phosphors that can be excited by GaN light emitting diodes in the wavelength range 380–460 nm is essential for improving the efficiency and light quality of solid state lighting devices. Garnets doped with Ce3+ are of particular interest for this application. We have studied the luminescence of Ce3+ in garnet phosphors and established a relationship between the excitation/emission wavelengths and the deviation from cubic symmetry around the rare-earth ion. Data are presented for both known yttrium aluminum and yttrium gallium garnet systems, as well as newly synthesized inverse garnets of the general formula Mg3Y2−yGdyGe3−zSizO12:Ce (0 ⩽ y ⩽ 2, z = 0, 1).
The effects of atropine-oxime therapy on cholinesterase activity and survival of animals intoxicated with p-nitrophenyl di-n-butylphosphinate

Abstract p-Nitrophenyl di-n-butylphosphinate (DBP) is a strong inhibitor of cholinesterase in vitro and in vivo. The half-times for regeneration of DBP-inhibited brain and blood enzyme activity were found to be 103.2 and 47.2 hr, respectively. These values are similar to those found for mice given soman, an irreversible inhibitor of cholinesterase. The absence of spontaneous reactivation of enzyme activity in vivo is supported by in vitro studies on DBP-inhibited eel acetylcholinesterase; no increase in enzyme activity was observed in 48 hr. After maximum inhibition with DBP, male rats were treated im with 44 μmol/kg of TMB-4, 2-PAM, or HS-6. TMB-4 treatment, but not 2-PAM or HS-6, resulted in significant reactivation of inhibited blood enzyme activity. 2-PAM was also markedly less effective than TMB-4 in restoring DBP-inhibited eel enzyme activity. Treatment with atropine alone and with 44 μmol/kg TMB-4, 2-PAM, or HS-6 im at 20 min after poisoning with 2.5 × LD50 DBP resulted in complete protection with TMB-4, 20% protection with 2-PAM or HS-6, and no protection with atropine alone. The data indicate that the response to therapy of animals receiving DBP depends upon the particular oxime used for treatment in conjuction with atropine; 2-PAM may not be the oxime of choice in the treatment of DBP intoxication.
The effect of historical, nonfiction trade books on elementary students’ perceptions of scientists

Elementary students perceive scientists in stereotypical ways. This study examined the influence of historical, nonfiction trade books on children’s images of scientists. Of the 13 self-contained third grade classrooms (n=156), six randomly assigned teachers were instructed to read one trade book each week for six weeks to supplement their modular/kit-based instruction (n=72). The other seven classrooms received only modular/kit-based instruction (n=84). In the evaluation of their drawings, the treatment group demonstrated a broader perception of who does science, where science is done, and what activities scientists do, and they were able to maintain their broadened perception for four weeks after the intervention.
Advances in neuroendocrine lung tumors

Pulmonary neuroendocrine (NE) tumors include a spectrum of tumors from the low-grade typical carcinoid (TC) and intermediate-grade atypical carcinoid (AC) to the high-grade large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and small-cell carcinoma (SCLC). Nodular NE proliferations ≥ 0.5 cm are classified as carcinoid tumors and smaller ones are called tumorlets. When NE cell hyperplasia and tumorlets are extensive they represent the rare preinvasive lesion for carcinoids known as diffuse idiopathic pulmonary NE cell hyperplasia. Carcinoid tumors have significant clinical, epidemiologic and genetic differences from the high-grade SCLC and LCNEC. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type I can be found in TC and AC patients but not those with LCNEC and SCLC. Also both LCNEC and SCLC can demonstrate histologic heterogeneity with other major histologic types of lung carcinoma such as adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, but is not characteristic of TC or AC. Genetic changes are very high in SCLC and LCNEC, but usually low for TC, intermediate for AC. The diagnosis of SCLC, TC and AC can be made by light microscopy without the need for special tests in most cases, but for LCNEC it is required to demonstrate NE differentiation by immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy.
On the use of models in corporate planning

Much is made these days of planning models, which I take to mean models from which plans could be extracted. It seems odd to me to think there is, or can be, such a model, as odd as it would be to think there is, or can be, a set of medical instruments from which health can be extracted. Obviously, medical instruments can sometimes be used in providing health care, and models can sometimes be used in planning; but, to switch metaphors, when English is used in planning it does not thereby become planning English. The same is true for models: when they are used in planning they do not become planning models. Several years ago Thomas Naylor and Horst Schauland (1976) surveyed the planning practices of 2000 corporations in the United States, Canada, and Europe. They concluded:
Current Clinical Management of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

During the past 2 decades, there has been a tremendous evolution in the evaluation and care of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The introduction of targeted PAH therapy consisting of prostacyclin and its analogs, endothelin antagonists, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, and now a soluble guanylate cyclase activator have increased therapeutic options and potentially reduced morbidity and mortality; yet, none of the current therapies have been curative. Current clinical management of PAH has become more complex given the focus on early diagnosis, an increased number of available therapeutics within each mechanistic class, and the emergence of clinically challenging scenarios such as perioperative care. Efforts to standardize the clinical care of patients with PAH have led to the formation of multidisciplinary PAH tertiary care programs that strive to offer medical care based on peer-reviewed evidence-based, and expert consensus guidelines. Furthermore, these tertiary PAH centers often support clinical and basic science research programs to gain novel insights into the pathogenesis of PAH with the goal to improve the clinical management of this devastating disease. In this article, we discuss the clinical approach and management of PAH from the perspective of a single US-based academic institution. We provide an overview of currently available clinical guidelines and offer some insight into how we approach current controversies in clinical management of certain patient subsets. We conclude with an overview of our program structure and a perspective on research and the role of a tertiary PAH center in contributing new knowledge to the field.
Paycheque Receipt and the Timing of Consumption

This article examines the consumption response to monthly paycheque receipt. Since the amount and arrival date of paycheques are known in advance, the receipt of a paycheque does not coincide with the receipt of new information. Under the basic rational expectations Life-Cycle/Permanent Income Hypothesis, household consumption should not respond to paycheque arrival. Using data from the UK's Family Expenditure Survey, this article finds that household consumption is excessively sensitive to paycheque receipt. The results cannot be explained by any underlying monthly expenditure fluctuations common to all households. The presence of liquidity constraints as measured by wealth and age can account for the excess sensitivity results.
Evaluation of Probabilistic Point Estimate Methods in Uncertainty Analysis for Environmental Engineering Applications

This paper begins with a comprehensive review of various point estimate methods, with an emphasis on their differences and similarities in theory and application. The Rosenblueth probabilistic point estimate method is a computationally straightforward technique for the uncertainty analysis of engineering problems. It is capable of estimating a statistical moment of any order of a model output involving several stochastic variables that are correlated or uncorrelated, symmetric, or asymmetric. However, in multivariate problems with more than two stochastic variables involved, the Rosenblueth method is not able to provide a unique solution, rather an approximate solution to indeterminate problems. This is attributed to the fact that the number of unknowns to be solved is larger than the number of governing equations provided. An improved modified Rosenblueth point estimate method is proposed to circumvent the drawback of the nonunique solution of the original Rosenblueth method and to increase the computational efficiency in modeling. One example application on the particle terminal velocity computation is presented for illustration. A quantitative performance index is introduced to assess the performance of various point estimate methods. It is concluded in this study that the modified Rosenblueth method has a comparable performance to the Rosenblueth method and yet resolves the nonuniqueness problem in solutions.
Photorefractive two-beam coupling in cubic crystals. II. General case (ϕ ≠ π/2)

Photorefractive two-beam coupling in cubic crystals in which the spatial phase shift between the index grating and the intensity pattern is not π/2 is considered. Exact solutions for codirectional cross-polarization two-wave mixing are obtained. The results are useful for the case of nondegenerate two-wave mixing when the spatial phase shift is not π/2.
The Structure of Y1Ba2Cu3O7-δ and its Derivatives

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the structural studies performed on superconducting oxides. It focuses primarily on Y 1 Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7–δ , nicknamed the 123 structure, because this structure has been the most extensively studied to date. The chapter describes the basic atomic arrangements in Y 1 Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7–δ and the way these arrangements change as a function of processing. The defects that are commonly found in the 123 structure are discussed, some of which play a dominant role in controlling superconducting properties. The studies of elemental substitutions for Y, Ba, Cu and/or O in 123 are summarized, and 123 with the other families of superconducting oxides is compared. These studies have both theoretical and practical interest because they provide clues to the roles that various structural features play in the mechanism of high-temperature superconductivity, which, in turn, may aid in the discovery of even higher temperature superconductors. It is evident from the variety of behaviors exhibited by 123 after different processing conditions that the structure has considerable flexibility. The oxygen stoichiometry can be varied over a wide range, and different cations can be substituted at least partially into every site.
Working with Proteins

Most research in molecular biology uses proteins at every turn. Frequently it is necessary to purify or partially purify them, and in almost all experiments it is necessary to use an enzyme for one purpose or another. Proteins are remarkably labile structures, probably resulting from the fact that the equation of forces between those tending to destroy structure and those serving to maintain a protein’s structure is only slightly tipped toward maintenance of structure (Schultz and Schirmer, 1978). Proteins are sensitive to pH, monovalent and divalent ions, specific ions and specific metals, temperature, and protein concentration. Thus it is important to pay close attention to buffers when working with proteins. What appears to be an awkward step in a certain procedure is likely to be included because it is the only known method that works. In most cases proteins are more stable at low temperatures than at room temperature. Thus most purification steps are performed at 0–4 °C and enzymes are stored at temperatures as low as possible.
Intersection of Population Genetics and Species Conservation

In 1966, Bruce Wallace, a young but distinguished member of the Cornell University Faculty, accepted me as a graduate student in genetics. Under the direction of Bruce and his colleagues, particularly Ross Maclntyre, I studied the principles, theory, and applications of population genetics, the behavior of genes, and genomic diversity. But I also learned important lessons from Bruce about the value of science and scientific investigation.
Localization of 5-nucleotidase and non-specific alkaline phosphatase by starch gel electrophoresis.

Summary1. By means of starch gel electrophoresis, 2 alkaline phosphatases were demonstrated, one migrating in the region of alpha-globulin and β-lipoprotein and the other with beta-globulin. 2. 5-nucleotidase constituted 60% of the former, but was not present in the latter. 3. Although alkaline phosphatase which migrated with beta-globulin was elevated in both diseases of bone and liver, it is thought to be derived from bone since it had no 5-nucleotidase. 4. Since 5-nucleotidase is not contained in bone and is not elevated in diseases of the bone, it is thought to be derived from the liver.