cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electron Compton defect observed in He, H 2 , D 2 , N 2 , and Ne profiles

A high-energy electron-impact spectroscopy (HEEIS) apparatus has been constructed for high-precision Compton-scattering experiments. Electron-Compton-scattering experiments are performed by crossing a beam of high energy, but nonrelativistic, electrons with a beam of atoms or molecules and measuring the energy-loss spectrum of the scattered electrons over a range of scattering angles. The improvements of design and technique, the method of data analysis, and the theory used to convert cross sections to Compton profiles are discussed fully. It was found that the energy-loss spectra taken over a range of scattering angles do not reduce by means of the binary-encounter approximation (impulse approximation) to Compton profiles in agreement with theory. This disagreement is most apparent in a shift of the experimental Compton peak---the Compton defect---from the peak predicted by the binary-encounter theory. The Compton defect has been studied in detail for momentum transfers from 1.5-12 a.u. for both He and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$. Defect measurements for ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$, and Ne have also been made and it was found that the ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ and Ne defects were opposite in direction from the He and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ defects. The ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$ defect was identical to that for ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$. The electron Compton defect is discussed in relation to other recent defect measurements using x-ray and ($e, 2e$) techniques as well as recent theoretical results. An evaluation of the theory used to convert cross sections to Compton profiles is presented and, on the basis of the defect measurements, it is suggested that, even when the binary-encounter conditions have been attained at large momentum transfers, the binary-encounter theory breaks down in the high accuracy (1%) limit. An explanation for this breakdown is given and recent theories, which at least qualitatively account for the Compton defect, are discussed.
Development of an Information Model for the Integration of Product Design and Sustainability Evaluation

Sustainability evaluation is an important activity for product designers to make “green” decisions when applying the rules for “Design for Sustainability”. It allows the designers to have a quantifiable conception of sustainability about his/her design in the real time. The successful evaluation mechanisms necessitate a closed and complete information integration between the product design methodology and sustainability evaluation techniques. In this paper, we propose an integration framework, which brings the environmental impact assessment into the early product design stages for design sustainability analysis. An information model, which is based on the current CAD systems, has been developed to link the essential components in the framework for building a successful green product design system. A case study that simulates a part design scenario has been given to demonstrate the use of the proposed information model.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Conceptualization of Quality Indicators for U.S. Based Four-Year Undergraduate Hospitality Management Programs

The purpose of this research was to (a) generate a composite list of hospitality management program quality indicators and (b) arrange the quality indicators in dimensional categories under conceptual themes. Three focus group interviews were conducted with twenty-eight hospitality educators and administrators. Sixty-nine quality indicators emerged based on the content analyses of the data under five conceptual themes: students/alumni, curriculum, faculty, industry support, and facilities. Categories under each theme varied in the unidimensional and multidimensional nature of their indicators. Implications for stakeholders and recommendations for future research to determine specific quality measures that would be useful to hospitality faculty and administrators in planning and assessing academic programs are provided.
Predicting the hydrogen pressure to achieve ultralow friction at diamond and diamondlike carbon surfaces from first principles

Hydrogen atmosphere can significantly change the tribological behavior at diamond and diamondlike carbon (DLC) surfaces and the friction-reducing effect depends on the partial pressure of hydrogen. We combined density functional theory modeling and thermodynamic quantities to predict the equilibrium partial pressures of hydrogen at temperature T, PH2 (T), for a fully atomic hydrogen passivated diamond surface. Above the equilibrium PH2 (T), ultralow friction can be achieved at diamond and DLC surfaces. The calculation agrees well with friction tests at various testing conditions. We also show that PH2 (T) increases with temperature; therefore, the temperature effect observed in friction tests should first be treated as an equilibrium factor rather than a kinetic factor.
Surface Chemistry of SO2 on Sn and Sn/Pt(111) Alloys: Effects of Metal−Metal Bonding on Reactivity toward Sulfur

The surface chemistry of SO2 on polycrystalline Sn, Pt(111), and a ( x )R30°-Sn/Pt(111) surface alloy has been investigated using synchrotron-based high-resolution photoemission and ab initio self-...
Cell, tissue and organ culture as in vitro models to study the biology of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck

In vitro models are currently being used to study head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Several hundred HNSCC cell lines have been established by various investigators and used to study a broad spectrum of questions related to head and neck cancer. The head and neck model with respect to multistage carcinogenesis is now complete. Several techniques exist for the culture of normal epithelial cells from the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT). The biology of these UADT cells (oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx) is being studied. Successful culture of premalignant lesions (dysplastic mucosa, leukoplakia, erythroplakia) has resulted in establishment of a limited number of premalignant cell lines and cell cultures. HPV infection of normal oral epithelial cells for immortalization (∼ premalignant cells) coupled with transformation with carcinogens (malignant cells) has established an experimental model for progression. Two in vivo models for oral carcinogenesis, the 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced hamster cheek pouch model and the 4-nitroquinoline-N-oxide rat oral model, have been established in culture. Thus, multistage carcinogenesis models have been established from both human tissues and animal models and include cultures of normal, premalignant and malignant cells. Culture techniques for growing dissociated primary tumor cells for short term experimental analysis are being used. The culture of normal or tumor tissue as organ/explant cultures allows for the maintenance of normal cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, but limits experimentation since these cultures cannot be propagated. Several three dimensional model systems are being used to obtain this histological complexity but allow for experimentation. The ability to culture normal, premalignant and malignant cells coupled with the use of a variety of culture techniques, should allow for the continued growth and experimentation in head and neck cancer research.
NEEDLE-BASED CONFOCAL LASER ENDOMICROSCOPY TO ASSESS LIVER HISTOLOGY IN VIVO

Background Confocal endomicroscopy enables histopathology of the GI lumen to be observed in vivo. Recent prototypes of a confocal miniprobe are thin enough to be introduced through a needle. Objective To evaluate the ability of needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy to distinguish between normal and cirrhotic liver tissue in vivo in a rat model. Design Feasibility study, nonsurvival animal experiments. Setting Academic research facility. Intervention Three normal control and 4 cirrhotic rats were examined under general anesthesia. The liver was exposed by laparotomy and imaged by using 3 different prototypes of confocal miniprobes, with 0, 50, and 100 μm working distances. Images were acquired on the surface of the liver capsule and through a 19-gauge needle inserted into the liver parenchyma. Real-time sequences were recorded after intravenous injection of fluorescein. Biopsy specimens were taken for standard histopathology. Main Outcome Measurements Confocal microscopic images of the surface and interior of livers in normal and cirrhotic rats. Results Miniprobes with 50 or 100 μm working distances identified cords of hepatocytes radiating toward central venules in normal livers and distorted hepatic architecture in cirrhotic livers when the miniprobes were either placed on the liver capsule or inserted into the parenchyma. The miniprobe with a 0 μm working distance identified a novel reticular pattern on the liver surface that was detected only in cirrhosis. Like the 2 longer-working-distance probes, this probe also identified cords of hepatocytes radiating toward central venules in normal livers and distorted hepatic architecture in cirrhotic livers, but this occurred only when the probe was inserted into the parenchyma. Limitations Data were assessed in an experimental animal setting, confocal imaging was performed invasively during laparotomy, only 1 model of cirrhosis was used, and no noncirrhotic liver diseases were examined. Conclusion Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy provides sufficient detail to distinguish normal from cirrhotic livers in a rat model. This innovative, minimally invasive technique has the potential to provide real-time identification of liver histology during EUS or natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery procedures.
Coarse-grained molecular dynamics of tetrameric transmembrane peptide bundles within a lipid bilayer

The conformations of model transmembrane peptides are studied to understand the structural and dynamical aspects of tetrameric bundles using a series of coarse grain (CG) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations since membrane proteins play a crucial role in cell function. In this work, two different amphipathic models have been constructed using similar hydrophobic/hydrophilic characteristics with two structurally distinct morphologies to evaluate the effect of roughness and hydrophilic topology on the structure of tetrameric bundles, one class that forms an ion-channel and one class that does not. Free energy calculations of typical amphipathic peptide topologies show that using a relatively smooth surface morphology allows for a stable conformation of the tetramer bundle in a diamond formation. However, the model with side chains attached to the core in order to roughen the surface has a stable square tetramer bundle which is consistent with experimental data and all-atom (AA) MD simulations. Comparisons of the CG simulations with AA MD simulations are in reasonable agreement with the formation of tetrameric homo-oligomers, partitioning within the lipid bilayer and tilt angle with respect to the bilayer normal. We concluded that a square or diamond shape tetrameric homo-oligomers could be stabilized by rational design of the peptide morphology and topology of the surface, thus allowing us to tune the permeability of the bundle or channel.
Choices of Instructional Practices and Efficacy Beliefs of Israeli General and Special Educators: A Cross-Cultural Research Initiative

Abstrctct. The study examined teacher choices of instructional practices needed in inclusive settings and their efficacy beliefs. Subjects were 560 general education and 139 special education teachers in Israel. Participants responded to a 68-item questionnaire about instructional practices and a 13-item self-efficacy scale. Significant differences between reported use and judgments of the effectiveness of various groups of practices were fourcd between groups. Special education teachers reported using more frequently individualized instruction strategies and assessment procedures. General educators reported communicating more with parents and with students. Both groups rated significantly higher all strategies for effectiveness than for use. Significant correlations, particularly for the general education group, were found between self-efficacy beliefs and choices of instructional behaviors. Scores on the self-efficacy scale were significantly higher for the special education group than for their counter...
Prevention of early renal disease, dyslipidaemia and lipid peroxidation in STZ-diabetic rats by LR-9 and LR-74, novel AGE inhibitors

Background Increased formation of advanced glycation/lipoxidation endproducts (AGEs/ALEs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diabetic complications. Several compounds have been developed as inhibitors of AGE/ALE formation. We examined the effects of two new AGE/ALE inhibitors, LR-9 and LR-74, on the development of early renal disease and lipid metabolism in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods Diabetic Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with either of the LR compounds for 32 weeks. Progression of renal disease was evaluated by measurements of urinary albumin and plasma creatinine concentrations. AGE/ALE and nitrotyrosine levels in kidneys were determined by immunohistochemistry. AGE-induced chemical modification of the tail tendon collagen and levels of Ne-(carboxymethyl) and (carboxyethyl)- lysines (CML and CEL) in skin collagen were measured. Plasma lipids and their lipid hydroperoxide concentrations were also determined. In vitro, both compounds were tested for inhibiting lipid peroxidation reactions. Results Treatment of either LR compounds significantly inhibited the increase in albuminuria, creatinaemia, hyperlipidaemia and lipid peroxidation in diabetic rats without any effect on hyperglycaemia. Both compounds also reduced CML-AGE and nitrotyrosine accumulation in kidney glomeruli and tubules, AGE-linked fluorescence and cross-linking of tail collagen, and levels of CML and CEL in skin collagen. In vitro, LR compounds inhibited the oxidation of human low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Conclusion Both compounds can inhibit the progression of renal disease and also prevent dyslipidaemia in type-1 diabetic animals. These compounds may have an additional beneficial effect as an antioxidant against lipid peroxidation, and thus may provide alternative therapeutic options for the treatment of various diabetic macrovascular complications. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large signal, low frequency characteristics of the systemic arterial system

A 4-parameter model to represent the relationship between slowly changing arterial inflow and the resulting pressure change was proposed. In order to determine values for the parameters and test the model in a wide range of pressure and flow, two experimental procedures were used. Firstly, slow oscillations in aortic pressure (period, 4 sec) were produced by means of an external pump connected to the aorta, and secondly, cardiac arrest was induced for about 2–3 sec by stimulating the right vagus. It was shown mathematically that the pressure and pump displacement information obtained in these experiments could be related to the model parameters. Values for the model parameters were obtained in 6 anesthetized dogs using a least squares adjustment procedure. Using aX 2-test, it was concluded that the model represented the arterial system for each animal well.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis with intrathymic calcifications and cavitation

A 3-month-old boy presented with respiratory distress, cough, poor feeding and a mediastinal mass on a chest radiograph. A CT scan of the chest demonstrated diffuse thymic enlargement with punctate intrathymic calcifications (Fig. 1) and cavitation (Fig. 2). A diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) was suggested based on the CT findings and confirmed by biopsy of a skin rash. Granulomatous infiltration of the thymus by dendritic cells is common in pediatric LCH, especially in multisystem disease, and results in the formation of an anterior mediastinal mass. The differential diagnoses of an anterior mediastinal mass in children include thymic hyperplasia, germ cell neoplasia, T-cell leukemia, lymphoma, granulomatous disease and LCH. Although uncommon, the presence of punctate calcifications [1] and cavitary air cysts [2] in an enlarged thymus are highly specific for LCH. In addition to thymic involvement, chest imaging may reveal reticulonodular pulmonary opacities, lung cysts or lytic bone lesions.
Generalized hybrid method for fuzzy multiobjective optimization of engineering systems

A generalized hybrid approach is presented for the multiobjective optimization of engineering systems in the presence of objectives and constraints that are partly fuzzy and partly crisp. The methodology is based on both fuzzy-set and Dempster-Shafer theories to capture the features of incomplete, imprecise, uncertain, or vague information that is often present in real-world engineering systems. The original partly fuzzy multiobjective optimization problem is first defuzzified into a crisp generalized multiobjective optimization problem using fuzzy-set theory. The resulting multiobjective problem is then transformed into an equivalent single-objective optimization problem using a modified Dempster-Shafer theory. The computational details of the approach are illustrated with a structural design example.
Nonlinear Prediction Theory and the Estimation of Proportions in a Finite Population

Abstract The prediction approach to finite population inference is developed for a general nonlinear model. An estimator of the finite population total and an estimator of its variance are derived, and the asymptotic properties of both are obtained when the random variables in the model are independent. The theory is applied to the problem of estimating the total number of units that have a specified characteristic. An empirical study is presented, which confirms that a nonlinear Bernoulli model is potentially useful for that problem but also illustrates difficulties that may be encountered. Comparisons with the ratio and linear regression estimators are also included.
Visualization of Excitonic Structure in the Fenna-Matthews-Olson Photosynthetic Complex by Polarization-Dependent Two-Dimensional Electronic Spectroscopy

Photosynthetic light-harvesting proceeds by the collection and highly efficient transfer of energy through a network of pigment-protein complexes. Interchromophore electronic couplings and interactions between pigments and the surrounding protein determine energy levels of excitonic states, and dictate the mechanism of energy flow. The excitonic structure (orientation of excitonic transition dipoles) of pigment-protein complexes is generally deduced indirectly from x-ray crystallography, in combination with predictions of transition energies and couplings in the chromophore site basis. We demonstrate that coarse-grained, excitonic, structural information in the form of projection angles between transition dipole moments can be obtained from the polarization-dependent, two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy of an isotropic sample, particularly when the nonrephasing or free polarization decay signal, rather than the photon echo signal, is considered. This method provides an experimental link between atomic and electronic structure, and accesses dynamical information with femtosecond time resolution. In an investigation of the Fenna-Matthews-Olson complex from green sulfur bacteria, the energy transfer connecting two particular exciton states in the protein was isolated as the primary contributor to a crosspeak in the nonrephasing two-dimensional spectrum at 400 femtoseconds under a specific sequence of polarized excitation pulses. The results suggest the possibility of designing experiments using combinations of tailored polarization sequences to separate and monitor individual relaxation pathways.
Blended Shared Control of Zermelo's navigation problem

Many machines-from hydraulic excavators to mobile wheelchairs-are manually controlled by a human operator. In practice, the operator assumes responsibility for completing a given task at maximum utility, even though the optimal inputs may be unknown to the operator. Here we discuss a simple technique termed Blended Shared Control, whereby the human operator commands are continually merged with the commands of a robotic agent. This approach is shown to result in a lower task completion time than manual control alone when applied to a problem motivated by Zermelo's navigation problem. Experimental results are presented to compare blended shared control to other types of controllers including manual control, heads up display, and haptic feedback. Trials indicate that the shared control does in fact decrease task completion time when compared to fully manual operation.
SEM and TEM observations of first and second order sputter-induced topography

Abstract Morphological changes of a solid that occur under ion and atom bombardment due to erosion by sputtering have been used to produce a conical end-cap, of prescribed cone half angle, to an emitter wire. First order erosion theory, that predicts the development of this conical shape, associates morphological changes with the variation in sputter efficiency due to variation in the angle of incidence between the ion flux and target surface. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) of the cone apex region reveals details associated with the spatial distribution of the sputter process on a length scale on the order of the ion penetration depth. This second order effect links the events taking place on an atomic scale within the atomic collision cascade with those features that can be predicted from the macroscopic first order theory. A competing process, such as surface smoothing due to atomic surface and volume migration, that can be radiation enhanced, limits the scale of surface roughness which develops due to the second order mechanism at an equilibrium temperature for the sputtering process.
Spinal cord ischemia after post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for nonseminomatous germ cell cancer.

AbstractPurpose: We report and analyze several cases of neurological deficit after post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection that were thought to be related to spinal cord ischemia.Materials and Methods: We searched the testis cancer data base at our university, which includes 1,447 retroperitoneal lymph node dissections performed from 1982 to 1994, to identify patients who had postoperative neurological complications. The history and clinical course of patients suspected to have spinal cord ischemia were reviewed and potential risk factors were analyzed.Results: The incidence of spinal cord ischemia after post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was 0.56 percent (4 of 712 patients).Conclusions: Spinal cord ischemia may complicate the course of post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in testis cancer patients. Older age, extensive retroperitoneal dissection, prior therapy and certain anesthetic parameters may predispose nonseminomatous germ cell tumor patients ...
Monte Carlo simulation of liquid bridge rupture: application to lung physiology.

In the course of certain lung diseases, the surface properties and the amount of fluids coating the airways changes and liquid bridges may form in the small airways blocking the flow of air, impairing gas exchange. During inhalation, these liquid bridges may rupture due to mechanical instability and emit a discrete sound event called pulmonary crackle, which can be heard using a simple stethoscope. We hypothesize that this sound is a result of the acoustical release of energy that had been stored in the surface of liquid bridges prior to its rupture. We develop a lattice gas model capable of describing these phenomena. As a step toward modeling this process, we address a simpler but related problem, that of a liquid bridge between two planar surfaces. This problem has been analytically solved and we use this solution as a validation of the lattice gas model of the liquid bridge rupture. Specifically, we determine the surface free energy and critical stability conditions in a system containing a liquid bridge of volume $\ensuremath{\Omega}$ formed between two parallel planes, separated by a distance $2h$, with a contact angle $\ensuremath{\Theta}$ using both Monte Carlo simulation of a lattice gas model and variational calculus based on minimization of the surface area with the volume and the contact angle constraints. In order to simulate systems with different contact angles, we vary the parameters between the constitutive elements of the lattice gas. We numerically and analytically determine the phase diagram of the system as a function of the dimensionless parameters $h{\ensuremath{\Omega}}^{\ensuremath{-}1∕3}$ and $\ensuremath{\Theta}$. The regions of this phase diagram correspond to the mechanical stability and thermodynamical stability of the liquid bridge. We also determine the conditions for the symmetrical versus asymmetrical rupture of the bridge. We numerically and analytically compute the release of free energy during rupture. The simulation results are in agreement with the analytical solution. Furthermore, we discuss the results in connection to the rupture of similar bridges that exist in diseased lungs.
Numerical and experimental characterizations of low frequency MEMS AE sensors

In this paper, new MEMS Acoustic Emission (AE) sensors are introduced. The transduction principle of the sensors is capacitance due to gap change. The sensors are numerically modeled using COMSOL Multiphysics software in order to estimate the resonant frequencies and capacitance values, and manufactured using MetalMUMPS process. The process includes thick metal layer (20 μm) made of nickel for freely vibration layer and polysilicon layer as the stationary layer. The metal layer provides a relatively heavy mass so that the spring constant can be designed high for low frequency sensor designs in order to increase the collapse voltage level (proportional to the stiffness), which increases the sensor sensitivity. An insulator layer is deposited between stationary layer and freely vibration layer, which significantly reduces the potential of stiction as a failure mode. As conventional AE sensors made of piezoelectric materials cannot be designed for low frequencies (<300 kHz) with miniature size, the MEMS sensor frequencies are tuned to 50 kHz and 200 kHz. The each sensor contained several parallel-connected cells with an overall size of approximately 250μm × 500 μm. The electromechanical characterizations are performed using high precision impedance analyzer and compared with the numerical results, which indicate a good fit. The initial mechanical characterization tests in atmospheric pressure are conducted using pencil lead break simulations. The proper sensor design reduces the squeeze film damping so that it does not require any vacuum packaging. The MEMS sensor responses are compared with similar frequency piezoelectric AE sensors.
Applying Semantic Rules to Achieve Dynamic Service Oriented Architectures

As the complexity and tempo of world events increase, Command and Control (C2) systems must move to a new paradigm that supports the ability to dynamically modify system behavior in complex, changing environments. Historically, the behavior of Department of Defense (DoD) C2 systems has been embedded in executable code, providing static functionality that is difficult to change. We propose the use of semantic models to represent system behaviors abstracted from procedural code, and we demonstrate that this provides a well-defined foundation for dynamic Service Oriented Architectures. This paper describes an implementation that models a military convoy traveling through an unsecured area under changing conditions. The W3C standard Web Ontology Language (OWL) was used to describe the battlespace domain, and the proposed W3C Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL) was used to capture recommended operating procedures for convoys in theater. In our experiment, two sets of rules were used: one set models rules of engagement for favorable visibility conditions on the battlefield, and the other models rules of engagement for poor visibility conditions. Ontologies and rule sets were translated into integrated knowledge bases that could be consulted as a service to derive alerts and recommendations for the convoy commander. Messages injected over an enterprise service bus (ESB) provide the changing conditions that affect the battlespace. We then were able to show that a dynamic event, such as an unexpected sandstorm, causes the appropriate set of rules of engagement grounded in the ontologies to be applied to the service to guide the convoy to safety. This paper describes the overall approach and the challenges we encountered. We outline the architectural options for constructing dynamic services and describe the semantic-based approach selected. We conclude with our findings and recommendations, including a set of requirements for a standard rule language needed to support agile services.
Provider impressions of the use of a mobile crowdsourcing app in medical practice.

In our prior work, we conducted a field trial of the mobile application DocCHIRP (Crowdsourcing Health Information Retrieval Protocol for Doctors), designed to help clinicians problem-solve at the point of care by crowdsourcing their peers. Here, we present the results of our post-trial survey that investigated the impressions of participating clinicians regarding the use of medical crowdsourcing and to identify factors influencing adoption of the technology. In all, 72 valid surveys were received from 85 registered users (85% response rate). The majority of clinicians (>80%) felt crowdsourcing would be useful to diagnose unusual cases, facilitate patient referrals, and problem-solve at the point of care. Perceived barriers to adoption included interruptions in workflow and the reluctance to publicly expose knowledge gaps. While considered a useful alternative to existing methods, future studies are needed to investigate whether the approach and application can be modified to effectively address these bar...
Plasma osmolality dipsogenic thresholds and c-fos expression in the near-term ovine fetus.

In ovine and human pregnancy, fetal swallowing contributes importantly to amniotic fluid homeostasis. Fetal dipsogenic responsiveness to short-term plasma hyperosmolality develops in late gestation, although fetal swallowing is not stimulated in response to long-term plasma osmolality increases (2 to 3%), which typically stimulate adult drinking behavior. To explore the near-term fetal plasma osmolality threshold for swallowing stimulation, we examined the effects of i.v. hypertonic saline-induced subacute increases in plasma hypertonicity on fetal swallowing behavior. Central sites of activation were examined by c-fos expression in putative dipsogenic nuclei. The results demonstrate that subacute 2 to 3% plasma osmolality increases do not stimulate near-term ovine fetal swallowing. However, fetal swallowing activity significantly increased (3 times) after plasma osmolality increased >6% above basal values. Consistent with a specific dipsogenic response, i.v. hypertonic saline induced c-fos expression in the anterior third ventricle region, a putative dipsogenic center, as well as in the fetal hindbrain. The stimulation of fetal swallowing under conditions of higher osmotic stimulation and the correlation with forebrain c-fos expression indicates that near-term fetal osmoregulation mechanisms are functional, although not completely mature. Reduced fetal dipsogenic responsiveness may result from altered osmoreceptor sensitivity, downstream neuronal or synaptic immaturity, or potentially inhibitory actions of stimulated hindbrain nuclei.
Comparison of results from in situ and in vitro perfusions of rabbit uterus with labeled estrone and estradiol.

The intercon version of labeled estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) in rabbit uterus was studied in vivo and in vitro, in order to evaluate the influence of incubation conditions upon the preferred direction of the reversible conversion of E2 to E1. In a typical experiment, one uterine horn was perfused intraluminally in situ with a mixture of [3H]E2 and [14C]E1, while the other horn was dissected and used for in vitro perfusions with the same tracers, both intraluminally and on tissue slices. The ratios of rate constants corresponding to the oxidative and reductive reactions were found to be similar under the three perfusion conditions, as calculated from the isotopic data. The rate constant of conversion of E1 to E2 was 10–20 times larger than the rate constant of the opposite reaction. Equal E2 nuclear saturation levels were obtained by perfusion of the uterine tissue with excess [3H]E2 in situ and in vitro after slicing. (Endocrinology 97: 1481, 1975)
Ketotic hypoglycemia of childhood--a clinical trial of several unifying etiological hypotheses.

We have studied 15 children referred to St. Goran's Children's Hospital because of suspected ketotic hypoglycemia. The patients were investigated according to a program designed to test several hypotheses--old and new--postulated to explain the etiology of ketotic hypoglycemia. We have used the classical ketogenic provocation with a low calorie, high fat diet and measured the blood levels of several substrates and hormones as well as the urinary excretion of certain metabolites and hormones. Out of the 15 children, 6 will fill the criteria of ketotic hypoglycemia at the time of study. The most remarkable finding in these 6 children in contrast to the other children studied was that they did not decrease their peripheral glucose utilization (measured as Kg) during starvation. These 6 children seemed to be more "advanced" in their adaptation to ketogenic diet in all other parameters studied. The children with ketotic hypoglycemia did not differ from the other children in plasma level of cortisol or urinary excretion of nitrogen, urea, 3-methylstidine and catecholamines. We favour the concept that the children with ketotic hypoglycemia represent the tail of the gaussian curve in the normal age-dependent development of the adaptation to starvation.
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 protects human neurons from staurosporine and HIV-1-induced apoptosis: mechanisms and relevance to HIV-1-associated dementia

HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD)-relevant proinflammatory cytokines robustly induce astrocyte tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1). As TIMP-1 displays pleotropic functions, we hypothesized that TIMP-1 expression may serve as a neuroprotective response of astrocytes. Previously, we reported that chronically activated astrocytes fail to maintain elevated TIMP-1 expression, and TIMP-1 levels are lower in the brain of HAD patients; a phenomenon that may contribute to central nervous system pathogenesis. Further, the role of TIMP-1 as a neurotrophic factor is incompletely understood. In this study, we report that staurosporine (STS) and HIV-1ADA virus, both led to induction of apoptosis in cultured primary human neurons. Interestingly, cotreatment with TIMP-1 protects neurons from apoptosis and reverses neuronal morphological changes induced by these toxins. Further, the anti-apoptotic effect was not observed with TIMP-2 or -3, but was retained in a mutant of the N-terminal TIMP-1 protein with threonine-2 mutated to glycine (T2G) that is deficient in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -2 and -3 inhibitory activity. Therefore, the mechanism is specific to TIMP-1 and partially independent of MMP-inhibition. Additionally, TIMP-1 modulates the Bcl-2 family of proteins and inhibits opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores induced by HIV-1 or STS. Together, these findings describe a novel function, mechanism and direct role of TIMP-1 in neuroprotection, suggesting its therapeutic potential in HAD and possibly in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Use and abuse of mental health experts in child custody determinations

Changes in standards for child custody determinations have resulted in an increased demand for mental health professionals to serve as expert witnesses. However, the entry of mental health professionals into custody disputes has been met with harsh criticism of the value of their contributions. Critics have generally pointed to the absence of substantive requirements for who may serve as an expert mental health witness, the ambiguities inherent in the best interests standard, the weak scientific basis for psychology and psychiatry, and the questionable measurement techniques employed by mental health professionals as reasons for increased regulation of forensic mental health services. This article critically reviews these concerns and proposes a regulatory model that addresses the salient issues.
The interactions of water and perfluorodiethyl ether with Ru(100)

We have studied the interactions of water and perfluorodiethyl ether on Ru(100) in order to model the effects of surface structure and humidity on the bonding and decomposition of perfluoroalkyl ether lubricants with metal surfaces. In order to understand the interactions on Ru(100), we have first investigated the interactions of each of these adsorbates alone on the clean surface. The interactions of water with Ru(100) have been studied using both thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). From these studies we conclude that a small amount of water dissociates on this surface (5--10% of a monolayer), but water is adsorbed in a predominantly molecular form on this surface with an increasing degree of hydrogen-bonding with increasing coverage. The effects of hydrogen and oxygen coadsorption on the interactions of water with this surface have also been studied using TDS. Finally, the interactions of coadsorbed water and perfluorodiethyl ether on Ru(100) have been investigated using TDS.
Efficient electromagnetically induced transparency in a rare-earth doped crystal

Abstract We have observed up to 100% transmission of a probe field at line center due to electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) in an optically dense rare-earth crystal of Pr3+ doped Y2SiO5 at 5.5 K. We also have examined both laser field intensity and temperature dependence of the EIT. Efficient EIT in this crystal opens potential applications such as efficient high-resolution image processing and signal processing, and optical data storage as well as lasers without population inversion in solids.
The Pearson silver-gelatin method for light microscopy of 0.5-2 plastic sections.

Sections 0.5-2 μ thick of liver, kidney, lung, cartilage and brown fat embedded in Maraglas, Araldrite, Epon and Spurr's medium were deplasticized in alcoholic NaOH for 15 min. Following several alcohol rinses, the tissues were exposed to 2% AgNO3 at 50 C for 1-2 hr, and then developed in a solution containing 3% gelatin, 40 ml; 2% AgNO3, 10 ml; and 1% hydroquinone, 4 ml. Sections were then toned in 1% gold chloride (several dips), washed in water for 5 min and dipped in 2% oxalic acid. After a brief rinse in water the sections were placed in 5% Na2S2O3 for 5 min, washed in water for 5 min, dehydrated in alcohol, cleared and covered. Compared to similar sections retained in plastic and deplasticized sections stained in the routine manner with 1% toluidine blue, silver impregnated sections of all tissue free of plastic, displayed greater clarity of cellular detail. Especially clear were mitochondria of liver and brown fat cells. Type II cells of the lungs were exceptionally prominent as were podocyte foot ...
Dimeric Galectin-1 Binds with High Affinity to α2,3-Sialylated and Non-sialylated Terminal N-Acetyllactosamine Units on Surface-bound Extended Glycans

Abstract Galectin-1 is a member of the galectin family of glycan-binding proteins and occurs as an ∼29.5-kDa noncovalent homodimer (dGal-1) that is widely expressed in many tissues. Here, we report that human recombinant dGal-1 bound preferentially and with high affinity (apparent Kd ∼ 2–4 μm) to immobilized extended glycans containing terminal N-acetyllactosamine (LN; Galβ1–4GlcNAc) sequences on poly-N-acetyllactosamine (PL; (–3Galβ1–4GlcNAcβ1–)n) sequences, complex-type biantennary N-glycans, or novel chitin-derived glycans modified to contain terminal LN. Although terminal Gal residues are important for dGal-1 recognition, dGal-1 bound similarly to α3-sialylated and α2-fucosylated terminal LN, but not to α6-sialylated and α3-fucosylated terminal LN. The binding specificity of human recombinant dGal-1 was similar to that observed with purified bovine heart-derived dGal-1. Unexpectedly, dGal-1 bound free ligands in solution with relatively low affinity and displayed no preference for extended glycans, indicating that dGal-1 preferentially recognizes extended glycans only when they are surface-bound, such as found on cell surfaces. Human dGal-1 also bound to both native and desialylated human promyelocytic HL-60 cells with similar affinity as observed for immobilized long chain PL. Binding to these cells was reduced upon treatment with endo-β-galactosidase, which cleaves PL sequences, indicating that cell-surface PLs are ligands. To test the role of dimerization in dGal-1 binding, we examined the binding of a mutated form of dGal-1 that weakly dimerizes (monomeric Gal-1 (mGal-1)) and a covalently dimerized (chemically cross-linked) form of mGal-1 (cd-mGal-1). dGal-1 and cd-mGal-1 had similar affinities that were both ∼3.5-fold higher for immobilized PL than observed for mGal-1, suggesting that dGal-1 acts as a dimer to cross-link terminal LN units on immobilized PL. These results indicate that dGal-1 functions as a dimer to recognize LN units on extended PLs on cell surfaces.
PERMETHYLATION AND TANDEM MASS SPECTROMETRY OF OLIGOSACCHARIDES HAVING FREE HEXOSAMINE : ANALYSIS OF THE GLYCOINOSITOL PHOSPHOLIPID ANCHOR GLYCAN FROM THE SCRAPIE PRION PROTEIN

Permethylation of the glycan isolated from the glycoinositol phospholipid (GPI) anchor of the scrapie prion protein (PrPSc) trimethylates a free hexosamine to form a quarternary ammonium salt, substantially increasing the sensitivity for analysis by mass spectrometry. This derivatization induces specific fragmentation reactions in collision-induced dissociation spectra obtained on a four-sector tandem mass spectrometer, identifying the branching pattern of the PrPSc GPI glycan.
Cultural Implications in Treatment of Japanese American Patients

Therapists encounter patients from varying cultural backgrounds. The values of occupational therapy parallel that of the Anglo American culture, i.e., independence, self-inititation, and internal motivation. To be truly effective as therapists it is important to be cognizant of how values and cultural aspects influence interactions, treatment, and perceptions of ability and disability. The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the values in the Japanese American culture, particularly the second generation (generally 40-65 years of age). Values such as deference, dependence, hierarchy, duty and obligation, and external motivation are discussed along with treatment implications and recommendations for treatment.
Tissue specific differences in the insulin receptor kinase activated in vitro and in vivo.

We have recently described structural differences between insulin receptors isolated from rat skeletal muscle and liver. In this report we compared their intrinsic kinase activity and their precipitability with antiphosphotyrosine and polyclonal anti-β-subunit antibodies before and after stimulation by insulin in vitro or in vivo. Liver derived receptors incubated with insulin showed 40–50% less autophosphorylation and exogenous substrate tyrosine kinase activity per insulin binding site than those from muscle, as well as a 50% reduction in the proportion of antiphosphotyrosine precipitable receptors. After tyrosine kinase was maximally activated by iv insulin injection (in vivo), antiphosphotyrosine antibodies precipitated 60% and 38% of insulin receptors from muscle and liver, respectively. Addition of insulin in vitro to in vivo activated receptors increased the proportion of antiphosphotyrosine antibody-precipitable receptors in both tissues but increased the tyrosine kinase activity only in liver-der...
Rhythmic changes in colonic motility are regulated by period genes

Human bowel movements usually occur during the day and seldom during the night, suggesting a role for a biological clock in the regulation of colonic motility. Research has unveiled molecular and p...
Self-focusing of very powerful laser beams II

In a recent paper the author proposed a self-focusing theory based on linear stability analysis of the quasi-optical equation [1]. Strictly, the theory applies only to a plane wave of infinite aperture. In this paper the theory is extended to beams of finite aperture, which may be initially convergent or divergent.
Role of the 5-Lipoxygenase–activating Protein (FLAP) in Murine Acute Inflammatory Responses

Leukotrienes are potent inflammatory mediators synthesized from arachidonic acid (AA) predominately by cells of myeloid origin. The synthesis of these lipids is believed to be dependent not only on the expression of the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), which catalyzes the first steps in the synthesis of leukotrienes, but also on expression of a nuclear membrane protein termed the 5-LO–activating protein (FLAP). To study the relationship of these two proteins in mediating the production of leukotrienes in vivo and to determine whether the membrane protein FLAP has additional functions in various inflammatory processes, we have generated a mouse line deficient in this protein. FLAP-deficient mice develop normally and are healthy. However, an array of assays comparing inflammatory reactions in FLAP-deficient mice and in normal controls revealed that FLAP plays a role in a subset of these reactions. Although examination of DTH and IgE-mediated passive anaphylaxis showed no difference between wild-type and FLAP-deficient animals, mice without FLAP possessed a blunted inflammatory response to topical AA and had increased resistance to platelet-activating factor–induced shock compared to controls. Also, edema associated with Zymosan A–induced peritonitis was markedly reduced in animals lacking FLAP. To determine whether these differences relate solely to a deficit in leukotriene production, or whether they reflect an additional role for FLAP in inflammation, we compared the FLAP-deficient mice to 5-LO–deficient animals. Evaluation of mice lacking FLAP and 5-LO indicated that production of leukotrienes during inflammatory responses is dependent upon the availability of FLAP and did not support additional functions for FLAP beyond its role in leukotriene production.
Expanding Horizon and Capture Effect in RFID Singulation

We present two singulation schemes for passive RFID systems. The first scheme, called expanding horizon, uses interrogator transmit power control to singulate tags in concentric annuli. We show through analysis that this scheme is very time-efficient and conserves energy. Our second scheme is a combination parallel interrogation and TDMA scheme that applies to multiple interrogator situations. It leverages the capture effect to singulate many tags, even when these tags may be receiving signals from multiple interrogators. This provides a time-efficient scheme, as shown in our simulations.
Measurement of S band clutter statistics using quasi-deconvolution filter for a phase coded waveform

This paper describes a signal processing technique by which radar clutter data collected with a derivative phase modulated waveform was used to evaluate sea clutter statistical parameters. Two processing options for recovering full bandwidth clutter samples from the radar return signal are matched filter and deconvolution. Both processors may be implemented in the form of a transversal filter (finite impulse response or FIR). The FIR matched filter output contains certain errors, such as filter time sidelobe responses, which are not present at the output of a pure deconvolution process. A transversal filter approximation to deconvolution, quasi-deconvolution, contains similar errors but greatly reduced in magnitude. We have shown that the use of quasi-deconvolution (QD) filters make it possible to accurately estimate two key amplitude distribution statistics for surface clutter: mean and mean/median ration.