cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constructing Marriage: Exploring Marriage as an Ideograph

The gay marriage debates, high divorce rates, and scandals involving polygamists have all drawn attention to the concept of marriage. After an analysis of qualitative survey data, this essay argues that participants' responses construct “marriage” as a term that functions as an ideograph, thus becoming marriage. Although marriage is abstract, it becomes concretized through its function as a point of contention between ideologically opposed groups. In addition, respondents call for a return to the traditional sense of marriage as reflected in their desire for marriage to be defined as commitment, rather than simply love.
The effect of ring deflection and heat transfer on the thermoelastic instability of rotating face seals

Abstract Unstable pressure and temperature variations are sometimes produced when one elastic body slides in contact with another body. The prediction of the onset of such instabilities has been made for certain idealized shapes such as two semi-infinite plates sliding on edge. The configuration of a mechanical seal is somewhat different. Ring-type elastic deflection must be considered in addition to the thermal contact resistance between the faces. On the basis of these considerations an approximate model is developed. The results show that, at a low number of waves, ring deflections predominate and greatly increase the speed at which instability begins. In contrast with the results for semi-infinite plates there is a number of waves below which instability is precluded. Increased thermal contact resistance lowers the critical speed. Some agreement with experimental results was found. The effects of ring deflection and contact resistance are large and a careful interpretation of these factors must be made. Refinements in the model and further experimental results are needed.
Megalin functions as an endocytic sonic hedgehog receptor.

Embryos deficient in the morphogen Sonic hedgehog (Shh) or the endocytic receptor megalin exhibit common neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Therefore, we have investigated the possibility that a functional relationship exists between the two proteins. During embryonic development, megalin was found to be expressed along the apical surfaces of neuroepithelial cells and was coexpressed with Shh in the ventral floor plate of the neural tube. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, homologous ligand displacement, and surface plasmon resonance techniques, it was found that the amino-terminal fragment of Shh (N-Shh) bound to megalin with high affinity. Megalin-expressing cells internalized N-Shh through a mechanism that was inhibited by antagonists of megalin,viz. anti-receptor-associated protein and anti-megalin antibodies. Heparin also inhibited N-Shh endocytosis, implicating proteoglycans in the internalization process, as has been described for other megalin ligands. Use of chloroquine to inhibit lysosomal proteinase activity showed that N-Shh endocytosed via megalin was not efficiently targeted to the lysosomes for degradation. The ability of megalin-internalized N-Shh to bypass lysosomes may relate to the finding that the interaction between N-Shh and megalin was resistant to dissociation with low pH. Together, these findings show that megalin is an efficient endocytic receptor for N-Shh. Furthermore, they implicate megalin as a new regulatory component of the Shh signaling pathway.
Internal plasticization: The effect of chemical structure†

The elastic and plastic properties of high polymeric materials are functions of the forces holding the molecules together and the ability of small segments of the chains to move about, relative to other segments. Internal plasticization is accomplished by introducing structural features which reduce intermolecular and intramolecular forces and which, in general, decrease the order of the polymer. Physical techniques used to determine the effect of such structural features have been discussed. The results of numerous investigations into the relations between structure and properties have been considered in an attempt to present a simple and consistent physical picture of these relations.
The Sulfonylurea Receptor 1 (Sur1)-Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 4 (Trpm4) Channel *

The sulfonylurea receptor 1 (Sur1)-NCCa-ATP channel plays a central role in necrotic cell death in central nervous system (CNS) injury, including ischemic stroke, and traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Here, we show that Sur1-NCCa-ATP channels are formed by co-assembly of Sur1 and transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (Trpm4). Co-expression of Sur1 and Trpm4 yielded Sur1-Trpm4 heteromers, as shown in experiments with Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and co-immunoprecipitation. Co-expression of Sur1 and Trpm4 also yielded functional Sur1-Trpm4 channels with biophysical properties of Trpm4 and pharmacological properties of Sur1. Co-assembly with Sur1 doubled the affinity of Trpm4 for calmodulin and doubled its sensitivity to intracellular calcium. Experiments with FRET and co-immunoprecipitation showed de novo appearance of Sur1-Trpm4 heteromers after spinal cord injury in rats. Our findings depart from the long-held view of an exclusive association between Sur1 and KATP channels and reveal an unexpected molecular partnership with far-ranging implications for CNS injury. Background: Sur1-NCCa-ATP channels implicated in acute CNS injury are hypothesized to be formed by co-association of Sur1 and a nonselective cation channel. Results: Sur1 and Trpm4 form heteromers that exhibit pharmacological properties of Sur1 and biophysical properties of Trpm4. Conclusion: Sur1 and Trpm4 co-assemble to form the unique Sur1-Trpm4 channel. Significance: Identification of Sur1-Trpm4 channels has broad implications in acute CNS injuries.
Algorithm for capturing action history from GPS log information

The spread of mobile phones equipped with a GPS (Global Positioning System) capability has opened up the possibility of services that provide information appropriate for the particular location of the user. However, the levels of precision and stability of GPS in mobile phones are not so high that the user needs to undertake a complex process to obtain information he/she really needs. In this paper, we propose a method of extracting the user's interest and preference from GPS log information that records the user's movements over a long period of time. Specifically, we propose an algorithm for capturing the user's action history (movements, positions where he/she was, and the facilities where he/she stayed for some time) from his/her GPS log information, and evaluate the algorithm through experiments with a prototype we have developed.
Tree growth in three South Carolina (USA) swamps after Hurricane Hugo: 1991–2001

Abstract While coastal forested wetlands of the southern United States have developed with hurricanes as normal aperiodic events and suffer little damage or mortality due to wind, they can be heavily impacted by saltwater storm surges. Three wetland stands (Boardwalk, Crabhaul, and Marsh Road) were studied on Hobcaw Barony, SC, USA, from 1991 to 2001 to determine the recovery of trees following Hurricane Hugo. Five 0.05 ha plots were established during the spring and summer of 1990 in each stand, and diameter measurements were made annually. In terms of the number of trees, basal area, and importance value, baldcypress (Taxodium distichum) and swamp blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora) were the most important tree species in the Boardwalk and Marsh Road sites, while baldcypress, water tupelo (Nyssa aquatica), and swamp blackgum were most important in the Crabhaul site. The influx of saltwater from the storm surge killed all individuals of five species (sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), red maple (Acer rubrum), sugarberry (Celtis laevigata), redbay (Persea borbonia), and waxmyrtle (Myrica cerifera)) in the Boardwalk site, as well as three species (sweetgum, red maple, and laurel oak (Quercus lauriflolia)) in the Marsh Road site. Of the remaining trees in both of these sites, baldcypress was the most impacted by saltwater, and mortality continued for several years after the hurricane. No saltwater damage occurred in the Crabhaul site. Mean annual growth rate of baldcypress was greater than other species in all three sites. Diameter change of baldcypress in the Boardwalk site averaged 1.80±0.77 mm per year (±1S.D.), followed by swamp blackgum at 0.85±0.39 mm per year and water tupelo at 0.46±0.84 mm per year. In the Crabhaul site, average growth of baldcypress was 2.00±0.52 mm per year, followed by water tupelo at 1.35±0.62 mm per year and swamp blackgum at 0.51±0.59 mm per year. Baldcypress growth was 2.12±1.2 mm per year in the Marsh Road site, while only 0.60±0.84 mm per year and 0.55±0.45 mm per year growth occurred for water tupelo and swamp blackgum, respectively. The loss of a majority of the mature trees in the Boardwalk and Marsh Road sites, combined with the lack of a viable seed bank and the loss of most of the shrub layer, means that it will take years before these stands fully recover. The Crabhaul site, on the other hand, had less than 3% mortality from the hurricane, and canopy recovery was complete after only one growing season.
New applications for the touchscreen in 2D and 3D medical imaging workstations

Ken Hinckley, John C. Goble, Randy Pausch, Neal F. KassellUniversity of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903kph2q@virginia.edu, jcg7q@virginia.edu, pausch@virginia.eduABSTRACTWe present a new interface technique which augments a 3D user interface based on the physical manipulation oftools, or props, with a touchscreen. This hybrid interface intuitively and seamlessly combines 3D input with more tra-ditional 2D input in the same user interface. Example 2D interface tasks of interest include selecting patient imagesfrom a database, browsing through axial, coronal, and sagittal image slices, or adjusting image center and windowparameters. Note the facility with which a touchscreen can be used: the surgeon can move in 3D using the props, andthen, without having to put the props down, the surgeon can reach out and touch the screen to perform 2D tasks.Based on previous work by Sears, we provide touchscreen users with visual feedback in the form of a small cursorwhich appears above the finger, allowing targets much smaller than the finger itself to be selected. Based on our infor-mal user observations to date, this touchscreen stabilization algorithm allows targets as small as 1 .08 mm x 1 .08 mmto be selected by novices, and makes possible selection of targets as small as 0.27 mm x 0.27 mm after some training.Based on implemented prototype systems, we suggest that touchscreens offer not only intuitive 2D input which iswell accepted by physicians, but that touchscreens also offer fast and accurate input which blends well with 3D inter-action techniques.1. INTRODUCTIONSoftware usability is crucial to getting neurosurgeons to actually use advanced visualization software in the clinicalroutine, and to use such software with reliable results. We therefore seek to design interaction techniques which facil-itate use of the software by surgeons, without need for a technical assistant. The manipulative capabilities of commoninput devices such as mice and keyboards are poorly matched to the existing skill sets in neurosurgeons and to thevolumetric manipulation and visualization tasks required for surgical planning. Trying to express the style of inter-face which he might find usable, one surgeon commented "I want a skull I can hold in my hand."0819417793195/$600
Sharp adaptive estimation by a blockwise method

We consider a blockwise James–Stein estimator for nonparametric function estimation in suitable wavelet or Fourier bases. The estimator can be readily explained and implemented. We show that the estimator is asymptotically sharp adaptive in minimax risk over any Sobolev ball containing the true function. Further, for a moderately broad range of bounded sets in the Besov space our estimator is asymptotically nearly sharp adaptive in the sense that it comes within the Donoho–Liu constant, 1.24, of being exactly sharp adaptive. Other parameter spaces are also considered. The paper concludes with a Monte-Carlo study comparing the performance of our estimator with that of three other popular wavelet estimators. Our procedure generally (but not always) outperforms two of these and is overall comparable, or perhaps slightly superior, with the third.
BaO/Al2O3/NiAl(110) Model NOx Storage Materials: The Effect of BaO Film Thickness on the Amorphous-to-Crystalline Ba(NO3)2 Phase Transition

The reaction of NO2 with BaO (0.15 – 2 ML and > 30 ML)/Al2O3(12 ML)/NiAl(110) model NOx storage materials was studied. A thick (~12 ML), ordered Al2O3 film was prepared as the support oxide on a NiAl(110) substrate in order to minimize the effect of the intermixing between the two oxide phases (BaO and Al2O3) on the NOx chemistry of BaO. The growth of a thick alumina film, prepared by atomic oxygen deposition onto NiAl(110), follows a layer-by-layer growth mode and the resulting film is much more stable when exposed to NO2 than the ultra-thin alumina films studied before. The interaction of NO2 with the model NOx storage systems at low coverages of BaO show fundamentally different behaviors from a thick BaO film, as nitrite species form at low exposures of NO2, followed by nitrate formation at high NO2 exposures. In contrast, on the thick BaO layer nitrite-nitrate ion pairs form at 300 K under UHV conditions (PNO2 ~ 1 x 10-9 Torr). However, at elevated NO2 pressures (≥ 1 x 10-5 Torr) the thick BaO film is gradually converted into amorphous Ba(NO3)2 at 300 K. Raising the temperature of the samples with ΘBaO > 1 ML after NO2 exposuremore » (in the absence of gas phase NO2) leads to the phase transformation of the amorphous Ba(NO3)2 layer into crystalline Ba(NO3)2 particles in the temperature range of 500 – 600 K. No phase transformation is observed in samples with ΘBaO < 1 ML.« less
Inverse effect of chronically elevated blood flow on atherogenesis in miniature swine

Abstract The effect of chronically elevated blood flow on the development of atherosclerosis in miniature swine was studied. Fistulas connecting the right external iliac artery and vein were surgically created in four swine, while three were not fistulated. Pulsed Doppler velocity detection cuffs placed around the abdominal aorta and both iliac arteries of all pigs permitted chronic measurements of blood velocity, blood velocity distributions, and blood flow. All swine were fed an atherogenic diet consisting of 20% beef tallow, 3% cholesterol, and 5% cholic acid for 6 months. This diet elevated the serum cholesterol to values exceeding 500 mg/100 ml. Creation of the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) markedly elevated blood velocity and flow in the abdominal aorta and in the shunted iliac artery. In the shunted animals the aortic blood flow was 42.1 ± 2.0 ml/sec compared with 17.3 ± 1.4 ml/sec in the unshunted swine. The velocity distribution pattern across the vessel was also indicative of an elevated wall shear stress. After 6 months, the animals were killed and the arterial vessels examined macroscopically and microscopically for the presence of atherosclerotic lesions. In the shunted pigs, 17 15% of the lumenal surface was occupied by sudanophilic lesions, whereas 80 8% of the surface was covered by lesions in the unshunted (control) pigs. From these studies, it is apparent that mechanical factors related to blood flow rates can influence the development of atherosclerotic lesions in swine.
The AII Amacrine Network: Coupling can Increase Correlated Activity

Abstract Retinal ganglion cells in the cat respond to single rhodopsin isomerizations with one to three spikes. This quantal signal is transmitted in the retina by the rod bipolar pathway: rod→rod bipolar→AII→cone bipolar→ganglion cell. The two-dimensional circuit underlying this pathway includes extensive convergence from rods to an AII amacrine cell, divergence from a rod to several AII and ganglion cells, and coupling between the AII amacrine cells. In this study we explored the function of coupling by reconstructing several AII amacrine cells and the gap junctions between them from electron micrographs; and simulating the AII network with and without coupling. The simulation showed that coupling in the AII network can: (1) improve the signal/noise ratio in the AII network; (2) improve the signal/noise ratio for a single rhodopsin isomerization striking in the periphery of the ganglion cell receptive field center, and therefore in most ganglion cells responding to a single isomerization; (3) expand the AII and ganglion cells' receptive field center; and (4) expand the “correlation field”. All of these effects have one major outcome: an increase in correlation between ganglion cell activity. Well correlated activity between the ganglion cells could improve the brain's ability to discriminate few absorbed external photons from the high background of spontaneous thermal isomerizations. Based on the possible benefits of coupling in the AII network, we suggest that coupling occurs at low scotopic luminances. Copyright © 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.
Graded-field microscopy with white light

We present a general imaging technique called graded-field microscopy for obtaining phase-gradient contrast in biological tissue slices. The technique is based on introducing partial beam blocks in the illumination and detection apertures of a standard white-light widefield transillumination microscope. Depending on the relative aperture sizes, one block produces phase-gradient contrast while the other reduces brightfield background, allowing a full operating range between brightfield and darkfield contrast. We demonstrate graded-field imaging of neurons in a rat brain slice.
Optimizing the use of X and VNC protocols for support of remote observing

Remote observing is the dominant mode of operation for both Keck Telescopes and their associated instruments. Over 90% of all Keck observations are carried out remotely from the Keck Headquarters in Waimea, Hawaii (located 40 kilometers from the telescopes on the summit of Mauna Kea). In addition, an increasing number of observations are now conducted by geographically-dispersed observing teams, with some team members working from Waimea while others collaborate from Keck remote observing facilities located in California. Such facilities are now operational on the Santa Cruz and San Diego campuses of the University of California, and at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena. This report describes our use of the X and VNC protocols for providing remote and shared graphical displays to distributed teams of observers and observing assistants located at multiple sites. We describe the results of tests involving both protocols, and explore the limitations and performance of each under different regimes of network bandwidth and latency. We also examine other constraints imposed by differences in the processing performance and bit depth of the various frame buffers used to generate these graphical displays. Other topics covered include the use of ssh tunnels for securely encapsulating both X and VNC protocol streams and the results of tests of ssh compression to improve performance under conditions of limited network bandwidth. We also examine trade-offs between different topologies for locating VNC servers and clients when sharing displays between multiple sites.
Improved prediction in the presence of multicollinearity

Abstract In this paper Monte Carlo techniques are used to examine the performance of several estimators for the linear statistical model under a squared error of prediction loss measure when the data are multicollinear. Under this measure of performance the Stein-like rules that shrink toward the principal components estimator perform very well relative to other minimax estimators for alternative specifications of the characteristics root spectrum. The sampling performance of a non-minimax pretest rule is also considered.
Characterization of Irradiated Metal Waste from the Pyrometallurgical Treatment of Used EBR-II Fuel

As part of the pyrometallurgical treatment of used Experimental Breeder Reactor-II fuel, a metal waste stream is generated consisting primarily of cladding hulls laden with fission products noble to the electrorefining process. Consolidation by melting at high temperature [1873 K (1600 °C)] has been developed to sequester the noble metal fission products (Zr, Mo, Tc, Ru, Rh, Te, and Pd) which remain in the iron-based cladding hulls. Zirconium from the uranium fuel alloy (U-10Zr) is also deposited on the hulls and forms Fe-Zr intermetallics which incorporate the noble metals as well as residual actinides during processing. Hence, Zr has been chosen as the primary indicator for consistency of the metal waste. Recently, the first production-scale metal waste ingot was generated and sampled to monitor Zr content for Fe-Zr intermetallic phase formation and validation of processing conditions. Chemical assay of the metal waste ingot revealed a homogeneous distribution of the noble metal fission products as well as the primary fuel constituents U and Zr. Microstructural characterization of the ingot confirmed the immobilization of the noble metals in the Fe-Zr intermetallic phase.
Decompositions of Factor Maps Involving Bi-closing Maps

We describe all possible decompositions of a finite-to-one factor map θ: ∑A→S, from an irreducible shift of finite type onto a sofic shift, into two maps θ=γϕ, such that the range of ϕ is a shift of finite type, and γ is bi-closing. We also give necessary and sufficient conditions for θ to be almost topologically conjugate overS to a bi-closing map.
Integration of a variable action suction adapter into ultrasonic aspirators.

PURPOSE: Use of ultrasonic aspirators has become a mainstay in the neurosurgical armamentarium. The handpiece design and ultrasonic parameters have evolved to maximize its safe and efficacious use. Despite these modifications, continuous suction through the tip of the aspirator can result in neurovascular damage, especially when the aspirator is working in the cavernous sinus region or cerebellopontine angle. CONCEPT: We describe the integration of a variable suction adapter into the existing handpiece of an ultrasonic aspirator to minimize potential injury from the continuous forceful suction normally associated with the use of these devices. RATIONALE: The integration of such an adapter can reduce the potential for suction injury to cranial nerves or microvascular structures or smaller-caliber arteries and veins. DISCUSSION: This variable action suction adapter can decrease suction injuries to cranial nerves or the microvasculature.
Modeling the Effect of Product Architecture on Mass-Collaborative Processes

Traditional product development efforts are primarily based on well-structured and hierarchical product development processes. The products are systematically decomposed into subsystems that are designed by dedicated teams with well-defined information flows. Over the last 2 decades, a new product development approach called mass-collaborative product development (MCPD) has emerged. The fundamental difference between a traditional product development process and a MCPD process is that the former is based on top-down decomposition while the latter is based on evolution and self-organization. The paradigm of MCPD has resulted in highly successful products such as Wikipedia, Linux, and Apache. Despite the success of various projects using MCPD, it is not well understood how the product architecture affects the evolution of products developed using such processes. Toward addressing this gap, we present an agent-based model to study the effect of product architectures in MCPD processes. The model is executed for different architectures ranging from slot architecture to bus architecture and the rates of product evolution are determined. The agent-based modeling approach allows us to study how (a) the degree of modularity of products and (b) the sequence of decoupling affect the evolution time of individual modules and overall products developed through MCPD processes. The approach is presented using the architecture of mobile phones as an illustrative example. This approach provides a simple and intuitive way to study the effects of product architecture on the MCPD processed. It is helpful in determining suitable strategies for product decomposition and module decoupling, and in identifying the product architectures that are suitable for MCPD processes.
Scintigraphic detection of atherosclerotic plaques in rabbits with 111In-labeled hematoporphyrin derivative

Abstract The efficacy of 111 In-labeled hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) in localizing and detecting atheromas had been investigated with 10 atherogenic New Zealand white rabbits. Atherosclerotic plaques surgically induced in the abdominal aorta showed selective uptake of 111 In-HPD over normal blood vessels averaging 0.01% ID/g tissue (range 0.003–0.023% ID/g). Normal aorta and thoracic artery concentrated an average of 0.0026% ID/g which is less than the mean blood activity of 0.0034% ID/mL. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant difference in the uptake of 111 In-HPD by the atherosclerotic plaque segments as compared to normal abdominal aorta ( P = 0.0023) and normal thoracic artery ( P = 0.0012). In hypercholesteremic rabbits, the mean plaque segment to normal blood vessels ratio was 4:1 (range 2 to 9:1) sufficiently high to permit plaque delineation in the scintigram. Although 111 In-HPD showed promise as a plaque imaging agent, further investigation with large animal models such as primates is needed to confirm current findings.
Postictal single-cell firing patterns in the hippocampus.

Summary: Purpose: Patients with epilepsy have varying degrees of postictal impairment including confusion and amnesia. This impairment adds substantially to the disease burden of epilepsy. However, the mechanism responsible for postictal cognitive impairment is unclear. The purpose of this study was to study single-cell firing patterns in hippocampal cells after spontaneous seizures in rats previously subjected to status epilepticus. Methods: In this study, we monitored place cells and interneurons in the CA1 region of the hippocampus before and after spontaneous seizures in six epileptic rats with a history of status epilepticus. Place cells fire action potentials when the animal is in a specific location in space, the so-called place field. Place cell function correlates well with performance in tasks of visual–spatial memory and appears to be an excellent surrogate measure of spatial memory. Results: Twelve spontaneous seizures were recorded. After the seizures, a marked decrease in firing rate of action potentials from place cells was noted, whereas interneuron firing was unchanged. In addition, when place cell firing fields persisted or returned, they had aberrant firing fields with reduced coherence and information content. In addition to postictal suppression of firing patterns, seizures led to the emergence of firing fields in previously silent cells, demonstrating a postictal remapping of the hippocampus. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that postictal alterations in behavior are not due solely to reduced neuronal firing. Rather, the postictal period is characterized by robust and dynamic changes in cell-firing patterns resulting in remapping of the hippocampal map.
Composite membranes prepared by concentrated emulsion polymerization and their use for pervaporation separation of water-acetic acid mixtures

A composite membrane prepared by the concentrated emulsion polymerization method, containing poly(sodium acrylate) as the dispersed phase and poly(divinyl benzene) as the continuous phase, was investigated regarding its swelling as well as the pervaporation separation of water-acetic acid mixtures. The experiments were carried out in order to be compared with the pervaporation separation of water-ethanol mixtures performed with the same membrane [J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 42 (1991) 2429]. The swelling of this membrane was found to be higher for acetic acid solutions than for ethanol solutions at the same mixture concentration. The permeation rates through this membrane for the water-acetic acid mixtures were in the range of 0.41–2.36 kg/m2-hr, and the permselectivity varied between 3.4 and 11.6. Compared with the separation of water-ethanol mixtures, the present experiments show much higher permeation rates and lower permselectivities.
Replating improves whole cell voltage clamp recording of human fetal dorsal root ganglion neurons

Abstract The whole cell patch clamp technique allows recording of membrane currents in an entire cell under voltage clamp conditions. However, technical difficulties arise in large cells bearing extensive processes, such as human fetal dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in culture. In order to improve space clamp conditions, human fetal DRG neurons cultured for 1–2 weeks were enzymatically detached and replated in new dishes, yielding round or oval cells with absent or short processes at 24 h in culture. Current clamp recordings demonstrated no difference in action potential parameters of the replated cells compared to control non-replated cells. Analysis of passive properties showed a reduction of 40% in mean specific membrane capacitance and a 57%, increase in mean specific membrane resistance in the replated cells, consistent with the decrease of cell membrane surface area. Whole cell voltage clamp studies demonstrated great improvement of the space clamp, indicating that more efficient voltage clamp conditions can be achieved in neurons in culture by eliminating neurites through replating.
Quantifying adipose and fibroglandular breast tissue properties using MRI-guided NIR tomography

Hybrid NIR-MRI imaging has been used in a clinical breast imaging system to characterize breast tissue properties. The multi-spectral, frequency-domain tomography system operates inside a clinical scanner via long silica-glass optical fiber bundles and using a non-magnetic fiber-patient interface attached to a high resolution MR breast coil. Sixteen fiber bundles are positioned around the circumference of the female breast yielding 240 measurements of light transmission (amplitude and phase) at six optical wavelengths from 660-850nm through up to 12 cm of tissue. From optical measurements, we use a Newton-type algorithm to reconstruct images of tissue optical properties (absorption and scattering), and physiological tissue features such as oxy-hemoglobin [Hb-O2], deoxy-hemoglobin concentrations [Hb-R], water concentration [water], scattering amplitude, and scattering power. We are exploring the synergistic benefits of a combined NIR-MRI data set, specifically the ways in which MRI (i.e. high spatial resolution) can be used to enhance NIR (i.e. high contrast resolution) image reconstruction. A priori knowledge can be applied to image reconstruction in the form of spatial and spectral constraints to improve spatial resolution, contrast, and quantitative accuracy of NIR images. In vivo results suggest that this combined system can accurately quantify contrast between the properties of tissues present in the breast (i.e. adipose and fibroglandular) regardless of their varied and complex spatial organization. For a group of healthy female volunteers, we observe greater contrast between the properties of adipose and glandular tissues when we use MR-guidance than when we do not, and values of total hemoglobin and water content are more consistent with what is physiologically expected.
Induction of the plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 in cells expressing the ZNF198/FGFR1 fusion kinase that is involved in atypical myeloproliferative disease

The ZNF198/FGFR1 fusion kinase associated with an atypical myeloproliferative disease is constitutively activated and regulates several STAT transcription factors. We used oligonucleotide microarrays to compare the gene-expression profiles between HEK-293 cells that stably express either the ZNF198/FGFR1 chimeric protein or the wild-type ZNF198 gene. Expression of the plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2/SERPINB2) was highly increased in cells expressing the fusion gene. Western blot analysis demonstrated that HEK-293 cells do not express PAI-2 endogenously, but in ZNF198/FGFR1-expressing cells 2 molecular forms of PAI-2, which were 47 kDa and 32 kDa, were expressed intracellularly, and a 60-kDa form was secreted. Similarly, expression of ZNF198/FGFR1 in BaF/3 mouse hematopoietic cells also induced the expression of the PAI-2 protein. Immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that both intracellular forms of PAI-2 bind to the ZNF198/FGFR1 kinase. Treatment of HEK-293 and BaF/3 cells with TNF-α in the presence of cycloheximide, induced apoptosis in both cases. In contrast, HEK-293 and BaF/3 cells expressing ZNF198/FGFR1 were resistant to TNF-α-induced apoptosis. These observations suggest that expression of the ZNF198/FGFR1 fusion gene is associated with specific PAI-2-mediated resistance to apoptosis which may contribute to the highly malignant nature of leukemic cells carrying this fusion kinase gene.
Electromagnetically induced absorption in quasi-degenerate two-level doppler broadened atomic system

We report, in this paper, a narrow dip of electromagnetically induced absorption inside the optical pumping window by the interaction of two coherent laser fields with a quasi-degenerate two-level open atomic system in inhomogeneously broadened Rb vapour. The effect arises from optical pumping and laser-induced atomic multilevel Zeeman sublevels in the same ground state. The numerical simulation for a N-type four-level system shows good agreement with experimental observation.
Utilization and Cost of Serologic Tests for Lyme Disease in Maryland

To ascertain use of serologic tests for Lyme disease (LD) in Maryland, all laboratories registered with the State Health Department were surveyed. Results show that from 1992 to 1995, 17 laboratories performed 100,000 serologic tests costing $7.1 million on Maryland residents; 90% of these tests were EIAs. The proportion of positive EIAs increased from 3.4% in 1992 to approximately 7.0% in 1994 and 1995, and the percentage of positive second tests (Western blot, WB) fell from 7.9% to 5.0%-5.5%. The large number of EIAs performed in comparison with the low incidence of LD in the state results in a low predictive value of a positive EIA test. Therefore, the WB is indicated to confirm equivocal and positive EIA tests when characteristic clinical findings of LD are not present. The 30,000 tests for LD performed annually on Maryland residents at a cost of over $2 million in direct medical costs must be added to the public health burden of LD in this state.
On Desires and Practical Reasons

This paper challenges a common assumption about the relation between desires and practical reasons—namely, that if oing is an optimal way (or even just a way) for a person, P, to satisfy one of her desires, then P has a (normative) reason to o. It challenges that assumption not by denying that desires are a source of practical reasons, but by showing that in some situations, rare though not impossible, P can lack a reason to o despite having a desire that she could satisfy optimally by oing.
Behçet's disease with major vascular involvement

A 40-year-old Chinese man was admitted for haemoptysis and progressive deep vein thrombosis involving the inferior vena cava (IVC) despite anticoagulation. An IVC filter had been placed earlier at an outside hospital. CT angiography revealed two pulmonary artery aneurysms. The patient was found to have a history of oral and genital ulcers, uveitis and erythema nodosum, thus meeting criteria for Behcet's disease. Other causes of the haemoptysis and thrombophilia were excluded. He underwent successful coil embolisation of the pulmonary artery aneurysms and responded well to immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide and steroids. Anticoagulation was cautiously continued to limit the long-term risk of secondary thrombosis from his IVC filter. The patient remains well 5 months after initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. Making a diagnosis of Behcet's disease in the setting of thrombosis is crucial, as treatment must include immunosuppression, and, thus, fundamentally differs from the management of most other thrombotic disorders.
Directional centrifugal constants and effective vibrational frequencies

Abstract The directional centrifugal distortion constant D v ( u ) of a molecule in the direction of a unit vector u is defined as D v ( u )=− 1 4 ∑ αβγδ τ v αβγδ u α u β u γ u δ , where τvαβγδ is the effective Wilson–Howard centrifugal tensor in the vibrational state v. Observable directional centrifugal constants are limited in two ways: (i) they are averaged over the eight octants, (±ua, ±ub, ±uc) with uncorrelated ± signs, so that it is sufficient to consider the average D v ( u ) with u in the positive octant, and (ii) the D v ( u ) can only be measured for directions u satisfying a certain equation. The observable directions u consist of the isolated direction b along the b-axis, and the directions corresponding to a continuous curve on the unit sphere from a along the a-axis to c along the c-axis. Intermediate directions on this curve include the diagonal d =(1,1,1)/ 3 and the equipartition direction e =(A v −1/2 , Bv−1/2, Cv−1/2)/(Av−1+Bv−1+Cv−1)1/2, where Av, Bv and Cv are the principal rotational constants. One choice of the five determinable centrifugal constants of an asymmetric top consists of DvA, DvB, DvC, DvD and DvE, which are the values of D v ( u ) for u=a, b, c, d and e, respectively. From D v ( u ) an effective vibrational frequency ω v ( u ) is defined for each u. This is a measure of the stiffness of the molecule opposing centrifugal expansion about the axis u. The equilibrium values ω e ( u ) lie between the lowest and highest harmonic frequencies of the molecule. Zero-point values ω 0 ( u ) calculated from experimental data for a variety of molecules show interesting patterns of behaviour that should assist in the prediction of approximate centrifugal constants.
Mass-spectrometric observations of uranium and plutonium monohydrides formed by ion—molecule reaction

Abstract The monohydride ions UH÷, UD+, PuH+ and PuD+ have been observed in the mass spectrum of U and Pu during the isotopic analysis of these metals by surface ionization mass spectrometry. By introducing hydrogen and vapors of hydrogen compounds into the ion source, the hydrides are found to be produced by endothermic ion—molecule chemical reactions of the metal-ion beam and residual gases. Hydride product ions have been obtained with measurable intensity for the systems: U÷+H2, U++D2, U++H2O, U÷+D2O, U++H2S, Pu++H2, Pu++D2. Analysis of relatively crude product-ion energy spectra permit the dispotential as a high-pass energy filter permits complete rejection of hydride ions in the mass spectrometer, due to the endothermic nature of the reactions involved.
Magnetic and structural investigation of heat treated ion beam sputtered amorphous Co/sub 74/Fe/sub 6/B/sub 15/Si/sub 5/ films

As-deposited and annealed specimens of ion-beam-sputtered amorphous Co/sub 74/Fe/sub 6/B/sub 15/Si/sub 5/ thin films were examined to explore the correlation between changes in magnetic properties and atomic structure. Specimens were characterized magnetically, by traditional AC and DC techniques, and structurally, via conversion-electron extended X-ray absorption fine structure analysis. Results show significant ordering of the higher-order atomic shells around the transition metal ions well below the crystallization temperature. This ordering evolves into body-centered-cubic configuration around both the Co and Fe ions. Increases in nearest-neighbor peak positions in the EXAFS Fourier transforms were observed to correlate with increasing annealing temperatures. Evidence is presented for the role of the ordering in the observed magnetic changes. >
Technology, Pedagogy, and Epistemology: Opportunities and Challenges of Using Computer Modeling and Simulation Tools in Elementary Science Methods

This study infused computer modeling and simulation tools in a 1-semester undergraduate elementary science methods course to advance preservice teachers’ understandings of computer software use in science teaching and to help them learn important aspects of pedagogy and epistemology. Preservice teachers used computer modeling and simulation tools within their own science investigations; discussed general technology issues; and explored, evaluated, and taught their peers about a particular modeling tool. Preservice teachers expanded their vision of the software available and the role that software can play in science teaching, but desired fun, easy-to-use software with scientifically accurate information within a clear, familiar learning task. Such conflict provided a fruitful platform for discussion and for potentially advancing preservice teachers’ pedagogical and epistemological understandings.
Direct Modulation of Kir Channel Gating by Membrane Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate * ♦

Multiple ion channels have now been shown to be regulated by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) at the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. However, direct evidence for a specific interaction between phosphoinositides and ion channels is critically lacking. We reconstituted pure KirBac1.1 and KcsA protein into liposomes of defined composition (3:1 phosphatidylethanolamine:phosphatidylglycerol) and examined channel activity using a 86Rb+ uptake assay. We demonstrate direct modulation by PIP2 of KirBac1.1 but not KcsA activity. In marked contrast to activation of eukaryotic Kir channels by PIP2, KirBac1.1 is inhibited by PIP2 incorporated in the membrane (K(1/2) = 0.3 mol %). The dependence of inhibition on the number of phosphate groups and requirement for a lipid tail matches that for activation of eukaryotic Kir channels, suggesting a fundamentally similar interaction mechanism. The data exclude the possibility of indirect modulation via cytoskeletal or other intermediary elements and establish a direct interaction of the channel with PIP2 in the membrane.
The interpolation of the Titchmarsh-Weyl function

By using the idea of interpolation of functions in Hardy spaces, we obtain a new representation of the Titchmarsh–Weyl function, known also as the m-function, in the case of short range potentials. The key idea is to use the Gelfand–Levitan–Marchenko theory which allows us to represent Jost solutions by the Fourier transform.
Terpenoid aldehyde formation and lysigenous gland storage sites in cotton: variant with mature glands but suppressed levels of terpenoid aldehydes

Abstract A new cotton variant with reduced levels of terpenoid aldehydes (sesquiterpenoids and sesterterpenoids (heliocides)) was isolated from the progeny of hemizygous cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum cv. Coker 312) transformed with antisense (+)-δ-cadinene synthase cDNA. Southern analysis of leaf DNA digested with Hin dIII, Pst or Kpn I restriction endonucleases did not detect any antisense cdn1-C1 DNA in the genome of the variant. The gossypol content in the seed of the variant was markedly lower than in the seed of T1 antisense plants. Eighty-nine percent of the variant seed had a 71.1% reduction in gossypol and the foliage of the variant plants showed a 70% reduction in gossypol and a 31% reduction in heliocides. Compared to non-transformed plants there was no reduction in the number of lysigenous glands in the seed of the variant. The cotton variant shows uncoupling of terpenoid aldehyde synthesis and gland formation. The cotton variant may have resulted from somaclonal variation occurring in the callus tissue during the transformation–regeneration process.
A Grinding Map Concept for Optimization of Ceramic Machining

This paper describes a systematic attempt to isolate various parameters that affect the material removal rate for diamond grinding of silicon nitride ceramics. The influence of different coolants and operating parameters such as force, depth of cut, and diamond grit size on the material removal rates under controlled conditions of single pass grinding is determined. Several parameters were developed to aid in interpretation of the grinding results. The parameters include grinding force coefficient, retained grinding efficiency, and instantaneous grinding rate. A grinding map concept was developed to allow rapid visual evaluation of grinding performance for a given coolant and a set of operating conditions. The results suggest that material removal rates in grinding of silicon nitride ceramics can be increased through optimization of machining parameters and the proper use of suitable coolants. The major contribution to decreased grinding rates for silicon nitride machining in these tests was due to dullin...
Obsessive compulsive disorder: Symptoms and diagnosis in a college sample

The Padua Inventory (PI) a self-report measure of obsessions and compulsions, was administered to 678 individuals. Six to seven months after, this initial screening, the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule-Revised (ADIS-R) was administered to 14 individuals who scored in the top 3% and 14 individuals who scored between the 42nd and 48th percentile on the PI. In the diagnostic interview, the 14 high scorers reported significantly more obsessions and compulsions, more general worry, and moresevere physiological symptoms when they worry than the comparison group. In addition, 9 of the 14 high scorers met DSM-III-R criteria for obsessive compulsive disorder with 3 of these 9 individuals also meeting criteria for generalized anxiety disorder though none had ever sought treatment for obsessions, compulsions, or worry. The high scorers also reported more obsessions and compulsions during 7 days of self-monitoring and had more depressive symptoms than the comparison group. Suggestions are made for additional research on OCD.
The NOVEL Lung Trial One-Year Outcomes

s S71 Medical Center, Tucson, AZ; 2Surgery, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Harvard, West Roxbury, MA. Purpose: Lungs preserved at extreme static hypothermia in current practice undergo time-dependent irreversible damage, exacerbated by cumulative reperfusion injury leading to graft failure upon transplant. Given the paucity of lungs available for transplant, there is a dire need for strategies to salvage and recondition DCD lungs to a functional standard available to meet the demand. Our study is the first to demonstrate perfused porcine lungs can be preserved in a robustly viable state at subnormothermia in a novel organ storage solution, Somah. We evaluate the efficacy of Somah to prevent hypothermic injury, maintain high-energy phosphates (HEP) and cellular homeostasis, and facilitate recovery while perfused for 67 hours at 21oC. Methods: Six lungs were perfused and ventilated for 67 hours at 21oC. Porcine lungs were continually assessed while perfused with Somah at 0.6 liters/min to maintain a mean pulmonary artery pressure < 10mmHg, and ventilation 2.5 liters/min. Biochemical, physiological and histopathology parameters were temporally evaluated. Results: All lungs but one were non-edematous and demonstrated aerobic and anaerobic metabolism during prolonged perfusion. Lungs utilized O2 and generated metabolic CO2 leading towards energy accumulation during lung perfusion. Physiological parameters: dry/weight ratio (887g/863g), MV (287mL/264mL), PAP (19/17 cm H2O), and Compliance (150/199 mL/cm H2O) were unchanged and within normal limits. Conclusion: Our data provides evidence that DCD lungs can be perfused safely with Somah for an extended period of time. Vital metabolism, preserved functionality, prevention of hypothermia induced injury, and probability of enduring IRI-dependent damage confirm our hypothesis that, lungs perfused with Somah at 21 oC were reconditioned and regain functional integrity, decreasing the likelihood of early post-transplant failure. These observations have immense implications in the field of organ preservation for transplant.