cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
LOSS OF DOPAMINE D2 RECEPTORS VARIES ALONG THE ROSTROCAUDAL AXIS OF THE HIPPOCAMPAL COMPLEX IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

The anatomy of the hippocampus, including the organization of its intrinsic neural circuits and afferents, is organized along a rostrocaudal axis. Dopamine D2 receptors are expressed in specific regions of the hippocampal complex (hippocampal subfields, entorhinal cortex, perirhinal cortex) and show differential expression along this axis. The dentate gyrus and CA3/CA4 subfields show higher numbers of D2 receptors in the rostral than in the caudal levels. In contrast, the subiculum shows the reverse gradient. We report here that Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with reduced expression of the dopamine D2 receptor, but the effects differ with respect to the rostrocaudal axis and area within the hippocampal complex. The number of D2 receptors is significantly reduced in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus, CA3 subfield, and subiculum. For the dentate gyrus and subiculum, there were greater losses at more rostral levels. The CA3/CA4 subfields showed the greatest losses caudally. The entorhinal cortex, which shows only modest expression of D2 receptors in controls, does not exhibit reduced numbers in AD. The external laminae of the rostral perirhinal cortex showed more significant losses than more caudally in this cortical field. The regions showing loss of D2 receptors do not typically contain neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, or significant neuron loss. Thus other mechanisms must account for the unique gradient of D2 receptor loss in the hippocampus. The regions of reduced expression of dopamine D2 receptors do correlate well with the terminal zone of the dentate association pathway, the afferents from the anlygdala and perirhinal cortex, and the sources of those afferents within the amygdala and perirhinal cortex. The specific patterns of reduced D2 receptor expression in AD are likely to contribute significantly to the disrupted information flow into and out of the hippocampus and, thus, of functions subserved by this system. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The dopamine D3/2 agonist 7-OH-DPAT attenuates the development of morphine tolerance but not physical dependence in rats.

Rationale: The dopamine (DA) D3/2 agonist 7-OH-DPAT attenuates the acute antinociceptive, discriminative stimulus, locomotor activating, and reinforcing effects of mu agonists (for example, morphine). Objectives: To examine the ability of 7-OH-DPAT to modulate the development of morphine tolerance and physical dependence in the rat. Methods: Morphine antinociception was assessed using a warm water tail-withdrawal procedure before and following chronic treatment with morphine (15 mg/kg)/7-OH-DPAT (0.3–3.0 mg/kg). Physical dependence was assessed following naloxone-precipitated (1.0 mg/kg) withdrawal in rats treated chronically with morphine (15 and 7.5 mg/kg)/7-OH-DPAT (1.0–10 mg/kg). Results: 7-OH-DPAT attenuated the antinociceptive effects of morphine in both morphine naive and tolerant rats. Additionally, morphine tolerance was attenuated by the coadministration of 7-OH-DPAT in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The magnitude of the attenuation obtained when morphine and 7-OH-DPAT were administered at the same time was similar to that obtained when administration of these drugs was separated by 6 h, indicating that 7-OH-DPAT did not alter morphine pharmacokinetics. In rats rendered tolerant to morphine, the subsequent coadministration of morphine/7-OH-DPAT failed to reverse morphine tolerance, but did attenuate its further development. The level of physical dependence (number and frequency of withdrawal signs) was greater in rats treated with 15 than 7.5 mg/kg morphine. Under both treatment conditions, physical dependence was not altered by 7-OH-DPAT. In morphine-dependent (15 mg/kg) rats, 7-OH-DPAT (3.0 and 10 mg/kg) failed to precipitate withdrawal. Conclusion: The D3/2 agonist 7-OH-DPAT can attenuate the antinociceptive effects of morphine in both acute and chronic preparations as well as the development of morphine tolerance. 7-OH-DPAT does not, however, alter morphine physical dependence.
Experimental Results for Parasitic Coupling and Attenuation of Coplanar Waveguides on High Resistivity Silicon

In high density MMIC circuits, parasitic coupling becomes a critical design consideration and adequate spacing between closely placed circuits is necessary to avoid unwanted interaction. In this paper, a measurement-based estimate for minimum spacing required between CPW lines fabricated on silicon is presented. It is shown that parasitic coupling between CPW lines can be reduced by a factor of 10dB if the silicon substrate around the ground plane is etched. Measured results for attenuation are also presented for CPW lines fabricated on a 425?m thick Si substrate using 1?m layers of either high temperature oxide (HTO) or evaporated SiO. It is shown that the loss on SiO is 3× lower when compared to SiO2 - based configurations.
The biased graphs whose matroids are binary

Abstract A biased graph Φ consists of a graph and a class of distinguished polygons such that no theta subgraph contains exactly two distinguished polygons. There are three matroids naturally associated with Φ: the bias matroid G ( Φ ), the lift matroid L ( Φ ), and the complete lift L 0 ( Φ ). We characterize those Φ for which any of these matroids is binary.
The Path to Epigenetic Treatment of Memory Disorders

Mechanistically, epigenetics regulate transcription through post-translational modification of the N-terminus of core histone proteins and cytosine residues of DNA. These modifications influence transcription factor accessibility to gene promoters by controlling the organization of chromatin’s structure. Core histones are highly basic alkaline proteins that align and order DNA (~147 bp) into structural units termed nucleosomes. The nucleosome is comprised of protein octamers containing a pair of each core histone (H2A, H2B, H3, H4). These histones contain N-terminal tails that provide sites for a range of covalent chemical modifications that regulate the overall chromatin structure. These histone modifications include acetylation, phosphorylation, methylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation, though most research to date has focused on the first three. The addition and removal of these functional groups results in changes to chromatin structure that can either facilitate or repress gene expression. Histone acetylation, a transcriptional activator, is catalyzed by histone acetyltransferases (HATs), whereas histone deacetylases (HDACs) are responsible for removal of the acetyl group. Similarly, histone phosphorylation of serine, threonine and sometimes arginine residues, most often leads to transcriptional activation. As with histone acetylation, methylation can also occur on lysine residues. The transcriptional effects of histone methylation depend on which histone and lysine residues are involved, as well as the degree of methylation (i.e. mono-, di- or trimethylation). The methylation of genomic DNA at CpG dinucleotides is predominantly associated with transcriptional silencing. DNA methylation is catalyzed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and usually involves the recruitment methyl-DNA binding proteins, such as MeCP2. Although DNA methylation has long been perceived to be a static modification, with changes only occurring in disease states (e.g. cancer), recent evidence suggests the process can be highly dynamic (Bhattacharya et al., 1999; Miller & Sweatt, 2007; Kangaspeska et al., 2008; Metivier et al., 2008; Kim et al., 2009; Ma et al., 2009).
Effect of different mammographic radiation exposures on predicted benefits of screening for breast cancer

The benefits and risks of screening for breast cancer, including both mammographic and clinical examinations, are analysed by means of a probabilistic model. The model, applied to previously unpublished data provided by the HIP (Health Insurance Plan of Greater New York) breast cancer screening project, permits more precise stratification by age than previous analyses and allows for incorporation of oncogenic risks due to mammography. It is assumed that, from the tenth year of screening onward, radiation induces 6 cases of breast cancer per year per million women screened per rad delivered to the breast tissue per exam. The predicted pattern of breast cancer cases and deaths is commensurate with that actually observed in the first nine years of the HIP study. In extrapolation to lifetime experience, the model predicts an ultimate decrease in the probability of dying of breast cancer only for women over age fifty at initial screening and an increase in life expectancy for the entire screened group, at an exposure level of three rads per exam. Had radiation dosage been one rad or less per exam, which is within the range now possible with modern equipment and procedures, the radiation risk would not offset even a modest benefit such as is predicted for the younger women, either in number of deaths or years of life expectancy.
Structuring Interactions With Technology: A Social Identity Approach

This case study investigated social construction of technology from the perspective of social identity theory. Four pre-existing social categories were found to be important sources of social influ...
Substrate specificity of Gaucher spleen phosphoprotein phosphatase.

Abstract The spleen in Gaucher's disease contains elevated levels of two distinct acid phosphatases. One of the isoenzymes, a tartrate-resistant type 5 acid phosphatase which we have designated SP II acid phosphatase, possesses considerable phosphoprotein phosphatase activity. The enzyme dephosphorylates phosvitin and casein at specific rates ( V ) of 38.6 and 45.0 units/mg, respectively. The dephosphorylation of the oligophosphoproteins as well as various fragments of phosvitin, histories, and monophosphopeptides was studied kinetically. Positive cooperativity (Hill coefficient = 1.3–2.0) was observed for the dephosphorylation of phosvitin and casein as well as for the dephosphorylation of fragments of phosvitin which contained as few as two vicinal phosphoserine residues. In contrast, the hydrolysis of phosphomonoesters such as o -phosphorylserine or various monophosphopeptides exhibited typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Cooperativity appears to depend upon the substrate rather than the enzyme. The cooperativity of dephosphorylation was not affected by altering the secondary structure of phosvitin from a random to β conformation or by acetylation of the protein; however, acetylated phosvitin was dephosphorylated more rapidly ( V = 50.8 units/mg) than native phosvitin indicating that the very basic phosphatase enzyme (p I = 8.5) prefers more acidic phosphoproteins as substrates rather than basic proteins such as histone ( V = 0.0013 unit/mg). A monophosphohexa-peptide ( V = 0.47 unit/mg) and monophosphoheptapeptide ( V = 0.18 unit/mg) proved to be much poorer substrates than phosvitin, and monophosphoproteins such as glycogen phosphorylase, phosphorylase kinase, and glycogen synthase were not dephosphorylated by the enzyme. Although the phosphatase is active on monophosphopeptides and the presence of flanking amino acids considerably decreases the K m of the enzyme for the phosphoserine residue (up to 100-fold), the enzyme appears to prefer peptide or protein substrates that contain two or more phosphoserine residues in close proximity. Finally, previous results showing the spleen phosphatase to be composed of 16,000- and 20,000-dalton subunits were apparently due to proteolysis during isolation since when 1.0 m m phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride was included in the isolation media, the enzyme appeared as a single 35,000-dalton species when subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate.
The Virgin of Guadalupe as an Ancillary Modality for Treating Hispanic Substance Abusers: Juramentos in the United States

During a 6-month research study of substance abuse outreach and retention methods in Mexico, the authors learned about the common practice of a self-control mechanism to abstain from substance abuse: Juramentos. Juramentos are pledges usually made to the Virgin of Guadalupe in the presence of a Catholic priest. The Jurado promises not to drink during a specified period of time. The authors discuss the dynamics of Juramentos and present data from an exploratory study indicating that Juramentos are being used among Mexican migrants in Florida and may provide a culturally sensitive adjunct for treatment of Mexican and other Hispanic clients in the United States.
Leak proof specimen holder modification for twin jet electrolytic polishing units

Polissage electrolytique a double jet de feuilles utilise en microscopie electronique a transmission
A convenient preparation of an optically active trialkylphosphine, (+)-()--propylmethylbenzylphosphine, from (−)-()- methyl -isopropyl

Abstract Details are presented for the first convenient, reasonable-yield preparation of a chiral trialkylphosphine. The material is of optical purity suitable for stereochemical studies involving the phosphorus atom.
Inheritance of heat-stable resistance to Meloidogyne incognita in Lycopersicon peruvianum and its relationship to the Mi gene

The inheritance of heat-stable resistance to the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood, was studied in crosses between different accessions and clones of Lycopersicon peruvianum L. F1, F2 and BC1 generations were evaluated for their index of resistance based on numbers of eggs and infective second-stage juveniles (J2) per gram of root, and the segregation ratios were determined in experiments carried out at constant soil temperatures of 25 °C and 30 °C. L. peruvianum P.I. 270435 clones 3 MH and 2R2 and P.I. 126443 clone 1 MH, all heatstable resistant, were crossed with L. peruvianum P.I. 126440 clone 9 MH, which is susceptible at both 25 °C and 30 °C. All F1 progeny were resistant at 25 °C and 30 °C; F2 and BC1 generations at 25 °C gave resistant: susceptible (R∶S) ratios of 15∶1 and 3∶1, respectively, which suggests that resistance is conditioned by two independently assorting genes. However, at 30 °C, R∶S ratios of 3∶1 and 1∶1 were observed for the F2 and BC1 generations, respectively. These results indicate that heat-stable resistance is conferred by a single dominant gene expressed at 30 °C, while the second resistance gene is heat unstable and not expressed at 30 °C. P.I. 270435 clones 2R2 and 3 MH and P.I. 126443 clone 1 MH were crossed with P.I. 128657 clone 3 R4 (source of gene Mi), which is resistant at 25 °C but susceptible at 30 °C. All of the F1 progeny were resistant at 25 °C and 30 °C.TC1 progeny of 270435-2 R2 x 128657-3 R4, 270435-3 MH x 128657-3 R4 and 126443-1 MH x 128657-3 R4 crossed with susceptible 126440-9 MH were all resistant at 25 °C and segregated in a 1∶1 ratio at 30 °C. These results also suggest that the heat-stable resistance is monogenic and that it is non-allelic to gene Mi. The non-segregation of TC1 progenies at 25 °C, suggests that the heat-unstable resistance factor in L. peruvianum P.I. 270435 clones 2 R2 and 3 MH and in P.I. 126443 clone 1 MH is allelic to or the same as gene Mi. We propose the symbol Mi-2 for the gene in P.I. 270435 that confers heat-stable resistance to M. incognita.
Anterior pituitary cells: getting to know their neighbors

We review in this article recent findings on the effects of cell proximity (nearness to each other) on anterior pituitary cell function in vitro. Important cellular processes, including protein synthesis, basal hormone release, response to hypothalamic regulatory factors and signal transduction can change as a function of the distance between adjacent cells. These findings, together with a growing body of evidence on intrapituitary intercellular interactions, form a basis for proposing a model of anterior pituitary cell regulation. In this scheme extrapituitary, intracellular and intercellular signaling pathways all contribute and interact to control secretory processes in cells.
Sensitive method for determination of ethinyl estradiol in presence of norethindrone

A sensitive spectrophotofluorometric procedure for the determination of microamounts of ethinyl estradiol is described. The method is useful for the determination of ethinyl estradiol in the presence of norethindrone and common tablet excipients, especially in dissolution media.
New Experimental Results from a 1.5 MW, 110 GHz Gyrotron at MIT

Summary form only given. Recently, the 1.5 MW, 110 GHz gyrotron with a new cavity has been tested at MIT. The new cavity (V-2005) significantly reduces ohmic loss and, therefore, it is very promising for CW operation of a gyrotron. The gyrotron with the new cavity has been tested in the axial configuration. The maximum power is 1.67 MW in the design mode TE22,6, and the corresponding efficiency is 42%, which is consistent with theory. The detailed gyrotron simulations using the code MAGY, developed by the Univ. Maryland and the Naval Research Lab, will be presented. Also new results from the gyrotron including an internal mode converter and a depressed collector incorporated to increase the efficiency will be discussed
A method for overcoming the surface tension time step constraint in multiphase flows II

SUMMARY A method for overcoming the surface tension time step constraint is presented. The algorithm presented in this work is an improvement on the work presented by Sussman and Ohta (SIAM J Sci Comput 2009). In this work, the method of Sussman and Ohta is extended in order to treat problems with contact angle dynamics. Furthermore, this work presents a more efficient method for computing volume-preserving motion by mean curvature than the method presented previously. The new method is tested on the following four 2D problems: (1) 3D axisymmetric (r−z) surface tension driven zero gravity droplet oscillation, (2) measurement of the magnitude of parasitic currents for a droplet on a substrate initialized in static equilibrium, (3) relaxation of a 2D droplet on a substrate to static shape, and (3) relaxation of a 2D bubble on a substrate to static shape. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Components of linear-fractional composition operators☆

Abstract We determine when two linear-fractional composition operators on the Hardy space H 2 belong to the same component in the collection of all composition operators on H 2 . We show that two such composition operators in the same component may fail to have compact difference, which answers a question raised by Joel Shapiro and Carl Sundberg.
Notch3 Signaling Promotes Radial Glial/Progenitor Character in the Mammalian Telencephalon

The Notch signaling pathway is known to influence cell fate in the developing mammalian nervous system. Previous work in the mouse telencephalon has shown that activated Notch1 promotes radial glial and astrocytic character in vivo, and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-responsive neural progenitor character in vitro. In light of studies suggesting that Notch3 can antagonize Notch1, we tested the effects of activated Notch3 (NICD3) in the mouse telencephalon. Infection of embryonic day 9.5 telencephalic progenitors in vivo with NICD3 promoted radial glial/progenitor character embryonically and astrocyte fate postnatally. In addition, expression of NICD3 in telencephalic progenitors in vitro increased neurosphere frequency in FGF2, but was incompatible with neurosphere growth in epidermal growth factor (EGF). Thus, in the developing telencephalon, Notch1 and Notch3 function similarly, and may activate similar signaling cascades. Consistent with this notion, expression of an activated form of the Notch effector CBF1 (CBF1-VP16), or of the pathway target Hes5 promoted radial glial/progenitor character in vivo. Interestingly, unlike NICD1 and NICD3, CBF1-VP16 and Hes5 did not inhibit neurosphere growth in EGF, suggesting that this effect may be mediated at least in part by CBF1/Hes-independent signaling.
Effects of sound-field frequency modulation amplification on reducing teachers' sound pressure level in the classroom.

Summary Voice problems are a frequent difficulty that teachers experience. Common complaints by teachers include vocal fatigue and hoarseness. One possible explanation for these symptoms is prolonged elevations in vocal loudness within the classroom. This investigation examined the effectiveness of sound-field frequency modulation (FM) amplification on reducing the sound pressure level (SPL) of the teacher's voice during classroom instruction. Specifically, SPL was examined during speech produced in a classroom lecture by 10 teachers with and without the use of sound-field amplification. Results indicated a significant 2.42-dB decrease in SPL with the use of sound-field FM amplification. These data support the use of sound-field amplification in the vocal hygiene regimen recommended to teachers by speech-language pathologists.
Ligation of Integrin α5β1 Is Required for Internalization of Vitronectin by Integrin αvβ3

Remodeling of the matrix by tumor cells is necessary for tumor invasion. We have shown previously that malignant astrocytomas, in contrast to normal astrocytes, synthesize vitronectin and express integrins αvβ3 and αvβ5. The activity states of these two integrins are differentially controlled. Thus, we investigated the regulation of the activity of integrins αvβ3 and αvβ5 with regard to their role in vitronectin internalization in U-251MG astrocytoma cell monolayers adherent to fibronectin, collagen, or laminin in serum-free conditions. Binding of [125I]vitronectin occurred in a specific, saturable manner that was partially inhibitable by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for integrins αvβ3 or αvβ5. Specific, lysosomally-mediated degradation of [125I]vitronectin was detectable at 1 h and increased over the 24-h assay period. The cell substrate affected the rate of turnover of [125I]vitronectin, which was 3.0 ng/min for cells plated on fibronectin but 0.35 ng/min for cells plated on collagen. Furthermore, although mAbs specific for either integrin αvβ3 or αvβ5 inhibited degradation (30%; combined effect 70%) of [125I]vitronectin by cells plated on fibronectin, only mAb anti-αvβ5 inhibited degradation (70-90%) by cells plated on collagen or laminin. To determine the requirement for integrin α5β1 ligation in order for integrin αvβ3 to internalize its ligand, cells were plated on mAbs anti-integrin α5 or anti-integrin α3. When plated on mAb anti-α5, mAbs anti-αvβ3 and anti-αvβ5 both inhibited degradation. However, when plated on mAb anti-α3, mAb anti-αvβ3 had no effect whereas mAb anti-αvβ5 inhibited degradation. These data indicate that a signal from integrin α5β1 is necessary for integrin αvβ3 to internalize vitronectin, whereas integrin αvβ5 constitutively internalizes vitronectin.
Ensemble Modeling of Metabolic Networks

Complete modeling of metabolic networks is desirable, but it is difficult to accomplish because of the lack of kinetics. As a step toward this goal, we have developed an approach to build an ensemble of dynamic models that reach the same steady state. The models in the ensemble are based on the same mechanistic framework at the elementary reaction level, including known regulations, and span the space of all kinetics allowable by thermodynamics. This ensemble allows for the examination of possible phenotypes of the network upon perturbations, such as changes in enzyme expression levels. The size of the ensemble is reduced by acquiring data for such perturbation phenotypes. If the mechanistic framework is approximately accurate, the ensemble converges to a smaller set of models and becomes more predictive. This approach bypasses the need for detailed characterization of kinetic parameters and arrives at a set of models that describes relevant phenotypes upon enzyme perturbations.
Sex differences in the immunologic and phlogistic responses to Salmonella typhosa H antigen in the albino rat

Abstract 1. 1. Sex differences were observed in antibody levels and α 2 - AP (acute phase) globulin concentrations in Sprague-Dawley rats following multiple injections of Salmonella typhosa H antigen. 2. 2. Agglutination titers were significantly higher in female rats the first week of the experiments and 4 and 8 weeks after the administration of antigen. 3. 3. α 2 - AP globulin levels were significantly higher in male rats the second and third weeks of antigen injection. 4. 4. It was concluded that no apparent relationship exists between the synthesis of antibodies and acute phase globulins.
Steam cooking significantly improves in vitro bile acid binding of beets, eggplant, asparagus, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower

Cholesterol-lowering potential of foods and food fractions have been evaluated by determining their bile acid–binding potential. Reducing bile acid recirculation lowers cholesterol by reducing fat absorption and use of cholesterol to synthesize bile acid. Secondary bile acids increase the risk of cancer. Bile acid–binding potential is related to lowering the risk of heart disease as well as cancer prevention. Previously, we have reported bile acid binding by several uncooked vegetables. However, most vegetables are consumed after cooking. How cooking would influence in vitro bile acid binding of various vegetables was investigated using a mixture of bile acids secreted in human bile under physiologic conditions. Eight replicate incubations were conducted for each treatment simulating gastric and intestinal digestion, which included a substrate only, a bile acid mixture only, and 6 with a substrate and bile acid mixture. Cholestyramine (a cholesterol-lowering, bile acid– binding drug) was the positive control treatment, and cellulose was the negative control. Relative to cholestyramine, in vitro bile acid binding on a dry matter basis was, for beets, 18%; okra, 16%; eggplant, 14%; asparagus, 10%; carrots, 8%; green beans, 7%; cauliflower, 6%; and turnips, 1%. These results point to the significantly different (P ≤ .05) health-promoting potential of these vegetables (from highest to lowest, beets, okra, eggplant, asparagus, carrots and green beans, cauliflower, turnips) as indicated by their bile acid binding on a dry matter basis. Steam cooking significantly improved in vitro bile acid binding of beets, eggplant, asparagus, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower compared with previously observed bile acid–binding values for these vegetables uncooked. Inclusion of steam-cooked beets, okra, eggplant, asparagus, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower in our daily diet as health-promoting vegetables should be encouraged. These vegetables, when consumed regularly, may lower the risk of premature degenerative diseases (heart disease and cancer), improve public health, and advance human nutrition research. Published by Elsevier Inc.
Regulation of Mast Cell Proliferation, Maturation and Function by Stem Cell Factor, a Ligand for the c-kit Receptor

Mast cell development in mice is critically regulated by stem cell factor (SCF), a product of fibroblasts and other cell types which is a ligand for the tyrosine kinase receptor protein encoded by the
Design requirements for using embodied learning and whole-body metaphors in a mixed reality simulation game

This paper describes the development of a mixed reality (MR) environment that can be used in teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) topics. Specifically we seek to create a space for facilitating whole-body metaphors, where learners use the physical movement and positioning of their entire bodies to enact their understanding of complex concepts. A technical approach is presented that fulfills the requirements of this type of embodied learning environment. Multi-projector blending is used to create a large, seamless, and shadow-minimizing projection on the floor that affords a human-scale interaction environment. A hybrid sensor solution using a Kinect and a laser scanner is developed that tracks users' physical movements. Requiring no pre-training or props, this tracking setup is adaptable and shows high performance over a wide range of users, from children to adults. To illustrate the application of the MR system to a real-world learning scenario, an example implementation that was designed to teach physics concepts to middle school kids is described.
Bridgman growth of large SrI2:Eu2+ single crystals: A high-performance scintillator for radiation detection applications

Single-crystal strontium iodide (SrI2) doped with relatively high levels (e.g., 3 - 6 %) of Eu2+ exhibits characteristics that make this material superior, in a number of respects, to other scintillators that are currently used for radiation detection. Specifically, SrI2:Eu2+ has a light yield that is significantly higher than LaBr3:Ce3+ -a currently employed commercial high-performance scintillator. Additionally, SrI2:Eu2+ is characterized by an energy resolution as high as 2.6% at the 137Cs gamma-ray energy of 662 keV, and there is no radioactive component in SrI2:Eu2+ - unlike LaBr3:Ce3+ that contains 138La. The Ce3+-doped LaBr3 decay time is, however, faster (30 nsec) than the 1.2 sec decay time of SrI2:Eu2+. Due to the relatively low melting point of strontium iodide (~515 oC), crystal growth can be carried out in quartz crucibles by the vertical Bridgman technique. Materials-processing and crystal-growth techniques that are specific to the Bridgman growth of europium-doped strontium iodide scintillators are described here. These techniques include the use of a porous quartz frit to physically filter the molten salt from a quartz antechamber into the Bridgman growth crucible and the use of a bent or bulb grain selector design to suppress multiple grain growth. Single crystals of SrI2:Eu2+ scintillators withmore » good optical quality and scintillation characteristics have been grown in sizes up to 5.0 cm in diameter by applying these techniques. Other aspects of the SrI2:Eu2+ crystal-growth methods and of the still unresolved crystal-growth issues are described here.« less
Modeling cyclic and acyclic therapeutic methods with persistent intervention effect in probabilistic Boolean networks

In cancer therapy, mostly in the form of chemotherapy, the goal is to alter the likelihood of undesirable states such as those associated with disease in the long run. After delivery, a drug will be effective on the target cell(s) for some period of time, followed by a recovery phase. This paper presents a methodology to devise optimal intervention strategies for two classes of cyclic and acyclic therapeutic methods with fixed-length duration of effect for any Markovian genetic regulatory network.
Role of neuronal activity and kinesin on tract tracing by manganese-enhanced MRI (MEMRI).

MEMRI offers the exciting possibility of tracing neuronal circuits in living animals by MRI. Here we use the power of mouse genetics and the simplicity of the visual system to test rigorously the parameters affecting Mn^(2+) uptake, transport and trans-synaptic tracing. By measuring electrical response to light before and after injection of Mn^(2+) into the eye, we determine the dose of Mn^(2+) with the least toxicity that can still be imaged by MR at 11.7 T. Using mice with genetic retinal blindness, we discover that electrical activity is not necessary for uptake and transport of Mn^(2+) in the optic nerve but is required for trans-synaptic transmission of this tracer to distal neurons in this pathway. Finally, using a kinesin light chain 1 knockout mouse, we find that conventional kinesin is a participant but not essential to neuronal transport of Mn^(2+) in the optic tract. This work provides a molecular and physiological framework for interpreting data acquired by MEMRI of circuitry in the brain.
Shape memory polymer snap-fits for active disassembly

Abstract This paper explores a means to simplify disassembly by engineering a snap-fit that automatically releases upon exposure to a heat field thus limiting manual labor or machine operation for disassembly. Shape memory polymer (SMP) snap-fits were designed and manufactured to actively release upon a thermal trigger. Snap-fits were designed with an added feature known here as a release angle that would allow for an uninterrupted movement for disassembly in the presence of an elevated temperature. SMP snap-fits were then manufactured and tested. Testing was performed for demonstration of the active release of the SMP snap-fits and for analysis of active disassembly (AD) process parameters. Taguchi methods were used to analyze the AD process parameters, including heating method and disassembly temperature. The results from this research show the successful demonstration of the SMP snap-fits within a manufactured product housing. AD process parameter analysis shows that both the heating method and temperature affect the AD process. The analysis determines that by increasing the heat exchange rate the snap-fit disassembly time is shortened. From the performed experiments, it was seen that an Oil bath at 150 °C produced the best results in regards to disassembly time and signal-noise ratio. The results from experimentation demonstrate the possibility of acceptable heat-releasable fasteners for more efficient disassembly and exhibit benefits over current AD elements comprised of shape memory alloys.
A comparison of three predictor selection techniques in multiple regression

Three methods for selecting a few predictors from the many available are described and compared with respect to shrinkage in cross-validation. From 2 to 6 predictors were selected from the 15 available in 100 samples ranging in size from 25 to 200. An iterative method was found to select predictors with slightly, but consistently, higher cross-validities than the popularly used stepwise method. A gradient method was found to equal the performance of the stepwise method only in the larger samples and for the largest predictor subsets.
Structural transformations accompanying the assembly of bacteriophage P22 portal protein rings in vitro.

The Salmonella typhimuriumbacteriophage P22 assembles an icosahedral capsid precursor called a procapsid. The oligomeric portal protein ring, located at one vertex, comprises the conduit for DNA entry and exit. In conjunction with the DNA packaging enzymes, the portal ring is an integral component of a nanoscale machine that pumps DNA into the phage head. Although the portal vertex is assembled with high fidelity, the mechanism by which a single portal complex is incorporated during procapsid assembly remains unknown. The assembly of bacteriophage P22 portal rings has been characterized in vitro using a recombinant, His-tagged protein. Although the portal protein remained primarily unassembled within the cell, once purified, the highly soluble monomer assembled into rings at room temperature at high concentrations with a half time of approximately 1 h. Circular dichroic analysis of the monomers and rings indicated that the protein gained α-helicity upon polymerization. Thermal denaturation studies suggested that the rings contained an ordered domain that was not present in the unassembled monomer. A combination of 4,4′-dianilino-1,1′-binapthyl-5,5′-disulfonic acid (bis-ANS) binding fluorescence studies and limited proteolysis revealed that the N-terminal portion of the unassembled subunit is meta-stable and is susceptible to structural perturbation by bis-ANS. In conjunction with previously obtained data on the behavior of the P22 portal protein, we propose an assembly model for P22 portal rings that involves a meta-stable monomeric subunit.
Erythrocyte distribution in arterial blood flow. I. Basic equations and anistropic effects.

Equations are derived for the flow of an anisotropic fluid in a tube. It is argued that these provide a model for arterial blood flow. Particular attention is paid to the effect of radial differences in hematocrit. Sequels to this paper (Bull. Math. Biophysics,29, 565–574; forthcoming, 1967) will respectively demonstrate possible wall-directed forces on the erythrocyte and enlarge on the physiological consequence of hematocrit variations. The present article develops the basic equations and explores the possible role of anisotropic effects in blood flow.
Oregon's experiment.

Oregon's systematic design for universal access to health care, known as the Oregon Basic Health Services Act, has provoked heated debate over its rationale, plan and process. It is a novel attempt to address inequities in the distribution of health care for those below the federal poverty level. Its controversial nature compels more informed discussion to guide further analysis. Accordingly, this report is primarily descriptive, aiming to provide a clear synopsis of the Oregon project's history, complex methodology, and strengths and weaknesses.
The comparative pathobiology of α2u-globulin nephropathy

alpha 2u-Globulin nephropathy is an important toxicologic syndrome that occurs in male rats following exposure to a number of important industrial and environmental chemicals. A low, but significant incidence of renal neoplasia develops in male rats as a chronic sequela to the disease. Studies on the pathogenesis of alpha 2u-globulin nephropathy have demonstrated that this protein is produced in large amounts in the male rat, that reversible binding occurs between chemicals and/or their metabolites and alpha 2u-globulin, and that this complex is resistant to proteolytic hydrolysis, leading to accumulation in renal lysosomes and subsequent cytotoxicity and cell death. This results in marked exposure-related increases in cell proliferation that persist for at least one year, providing exposure continues. This sustained increase in renal cell proliferation can promote initiated cells to form preneoplastic foci and renal neoplasia in male rats. Since this syndrome is highly species and sex specific, it is important to determine the relevance of these data for human risk assessment. The scientific considerations involved in high to low dose and species to species extrapolation are discussed.
Racial differences in short-term surgical outcomes following surgery for diverticulitis.

Diverticular disease ranks as one of the more common gastrointestinal disorders among westernized nations. Few studies have examined racial differences in the care and surgical outcomes of diverticulitis. The aim of this study was to determine if race is a predictor of peri-operative morbidity and mortality following surgery for diverticulitis. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (2005–2008) was queried with the primary dependent variables being 30-day morbidity and mortality. Differences in morbidity and mortality between races were compared using χ 2 and Student t tests. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for morbidity and mortality. To determine if the effect of race is modified by insurance status and case complexity, additional models were developed across age subgroups (<65 vs ≥65) and levels of case complexity. We identified 4,709 white and 360 African American patients. Despite being younger (57.6 ± 0.74 vs 59 ± 0.2, p < 0.05), African Americans were more likely to present with hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, dependent functional status, American Society of Anesthesiology class ≥3 (all p < 0.0001) and were more likely to require urgent surgery (p < 0.05), intra-operative blood transfusions(p < 0.0001), and undergo open colectomy (p < 0.0001). On adjusted analysis, African American race emerged as an independent predictor of morbidity (p < 0.05) and mortality (p < 0.05), without differences across insurance categories and less complex procedures. African American race remained a strong predictor of morbidity in more complex procedures (p < 0.05). African Americans undergoing surgery for diverticulitis are more likely to have associated co-morbidities, require urgent surgery, undergo open surgery, and are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. These findings highlight a need to address the root cause for disparities in care and outcomes after surgery.
A one-solar-constant irradiance standard.

A new high-intensity standard of total and spectral irradiance has been developed recently at the National Bureau of Standards. The standard consists of a 1000-W tungsten–halogen lamp mounted in a ceramic reflector, the reflecting surface of which is coated with flame-sprayed Al2O3. The lamp–reflector combination results in a source having a relatively small (3 cm × 5 cm) radiating area yielding a total irradiance, at a distance of 40 cm, of about 136 mW cm−2. The total irradiance calibrations are based on the radiance of a 1400-K blackbody and have an estimated maximum systematic error of 0.9% and a maximum estimated standard error of 0.19%. The spectral measurements were made over the wavelength range of 0.3 μm to 2.5 μm relative to the NBS 1000-W tungsten–halogen irradiance standards. The estimated uncertainty in these measurements ranges from 4% in the visible and near ir to 8% in the uv.
Use of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and the Slosson Intelligence Test With Urban Black Kindergarten Children

This study compared two "quick" IQ tests when administered to inner-city black kindergarten-aged children. The Slosson Intelligence Test (SIT) and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) were administered to 74 subjects by 7 black and 14 white testers. Although a moderate relationship was found between the two instruments, significant differences were found between the IQ scores for the two instruments. While a mean SIT IQ score of 111.07 indicated "above-average" intelligence, the mean PPVT IQ score of 89.44 indicated "below-average" intelligence. Race of examiner had no effect on the test results. In addition, item analyses were performed on both tests.
Identification and expression profile of multiple genes in Nile tilapia in response to formalin killed Streptococcus iniae vaccination.

Twenty-eight expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were isolated from a Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) vaccinated vs non-vaccinated subtractive library at 12-h post injection of a formalin killed Streptococcus iniae ARS-98-60 vaccine. The 28 ESTs were classified in terms of their putative functions. Half of the ESTs identified were unknown proteins. Of the remaining half ESTs, 17% have putative functions in protein biosynthesis and 11% have putative functions in immunity, energy production, and signal transduction, respectively. Immunity-related ESTs identified included high density lipoprotein-binding protein vigilin, immunoglobulin heavy chain, and QM-like protein. Quantitative PCR revealed that one EST (cytochrome c oxidase subunit II) was highly upregulated (1825 ± 336 fold) in vaccinated fish compared to that in non-vaccinated fish. Of the remaining 27 ESTs, nine were significantly (P < 0.05) upregulated (<20 fold) in vaccinated fish. The nine significantly upregulated genes included five unknown or hypothetical proteins and four known proteins (high density lipoprotein-binding protein vigilin, QM-like protein, ribosomal protein S13, and ribosomal protein L5). The upregulation of these genes induced by killed S. iniae vaccines suggest that they might play important role in Nile tilapia defense against S. iniae infection.
A Quantitative Analysis of Doctoral Dissertation Research in Special Education

This paper presents an analysis of 5 years of doctoral dissertations in special education. A total of 1581 dissertations were analyzed to examine the authors, subjects, methods, and outcomes of doctoral student research. Reactions to the findings are presented, and implications for further research are discussed.
Mother parity as a main and moderating influence on early mother-infant interaction

Abstract This study investigated main and moderating effects of mother parity on maternal attitudes and behaviors. In a sample of 87 mothers with 5-month-old infants, relations between determinants of parenting (maternal personality, marital quality, infant negative emotionality) and maternal behavior and attitudes (sensitivity, self-efficacy, mother-reported infant temperament) were examined as a function of parity. Results revealed both main and moderating effects of parity. Multiparous mothers reported higher self-efficacy, whereas primiparous mothers reported more of an increase in marital ambivalence following the baby's birth. The relations of self-efficacy, sensitivity, and mother-reported infant temperament to a laboratory measure of infant crying all differed by parity. In addition, for primiparous mothers, negative personality traits related to reported infant temperament, and for multiparous mothers, marital ambivalence and maternal sensitivity appeared to reflect a compensatory process. These results suggest that parity contributes to explaining how differing family systems influence development during infancy.
The Development of Direct Absorption and Storage Media for Falling Particle Solar Central Receivers

Spherical sintered bauxite particles between 200 μm and 700 μm in diameter have been shown to be effective in the direct absorption and storage of concentrated solar energy. These particles are commercially available in large quantities and exhibit as-received solar weighted absorptance (αs) greater than 0.90, which gradually degrades with extended heating in air at 700 °C and above. The degradation mechanism is an oxidation reaction that can be reversed via thermal or chemical reduction, resulting in αs > 0.95 along with enhanced resistance to further degradation for some formulations. Certain metal oxide pigments, added to Al2O3:SiO2, have proven to achieve solar weighted absorptance levels similar to those of the commercially available particles and may be promising alternatives to currently available materials.
Corporate strategy at Admiram Manufacturing Company: An Iranian case study

Abstract In this article, corporate strategy is delineated for an Iranian firm, Admiram Manufacturing Company. Environmental and corporate resources are conceptualized upon which Admiram's corporate strategy formulation and implementation are based.
Automatic construction of explanation networks for a cooperative user interface

This paper is concerned with providing automatically generated on-line explanations to the user of a functional computer subsystem or tool about what the tool can and cannot do, what parameters and options are available or required with a given command, etc.. The explanations are given through the COUSIN interface system which provides a cooperative tool-independent user interface for tools whose objects, operations, input syntax, display formats, etc. are declaratively represented in a tool description data base. The explanations are produced automatically from this data base, with no incremental effort on the part of the tool designer, and in a single uniform style for any tool that uses COUSIN as its interface. The explanation facility takes the form of a fine-grained, tightly linked network of text frames supported by the ZOG menu-selection system. Exactly what information the net building program, NB, extracts from a tool description, and the way in which this information is formatted in the text frames is controlled by a second declarative data base called the aspect description. The declarative nature of the aspect description makes it easy to adapt NB to changes in and extensions to the tool description formalism, and to experiment with the structure of the explanation network. We also describe how the appropriate network frame can be found and displayed in response to specific explanation requests from the user.