cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sources Of Noise And Image Resolution In The Holographic Stereomodel

The Fresnel holographic stereo-model described by Kurtz et al. (Ref. 1) and Balasubramanian and Stevenson (Ref. 2) provides a means of permanently storing a rectified photo-grammetric stereomodel. Briefly, the holographic stereomodel is a holo-graphic recording of a photogrammetric stereomodel such that during reconstruction the observer perceives a three-dimensional stereomodel. A complete discussion of the general characteristics of the holographic stereomodel is given by Mikhail else-where in these Proceedings.© (1974) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Transgenic expression of myostatin propeptide prevents diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance.

Abstract Obesity and insulin resistance cause serious consequences to human health. To study effects of skeletal muscle growth on obesity prevention, we focused on a key gene of skeletal muscle named myostatin, which plays an inhibitory role in muscle growth and development. We generated transgenic mice through muscle-specific expression of the cDNA sequence (5′-region 886 nucleotides) encoding for the propeptide of myostatin. The transgene effectively depressed myostatin function. Transgenic mice showed dramatic growth and muscle mass by 9 weeks of age. Here we reported that individual major muscles of transgenic mice were 45–115% heavier than those of wild-type mice, maintained normal blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, and fat mass after a 2-month regimen with a high-fat diet (45% kcal fat). In contrast, high-fat diet induced wild-type mice with 170–214% more fat mass than transgenic mice and developed impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Insulin signaling, measured by Akt phosphorylation, was significantly elevated by 144% in transgenic mice over wild-type mice fed a high-fat diet. Interestingly, high-fat diet significantly increased adiponectin secretion while blood insulin, resistin, and leptin levels remained normal in the transgenic mice. The results suggest that disruption of myostatin function by its propeptide favours dietary fat utilization for muscle growth and maintenance. An increased secretion of adiponectin may promote energy partition toward skeletal muscles, suggesting that a beneficial interaction between muscle and adipose tissue play a role in preventing obesity and insulin resistance.
METABOLISM OF TISSUE CULTURES : III. A METHOD FOR MEASURING THE PERMEABILITY OF TISSUE CELLS TO SOLUTES.

By using radioactive isotopes in tissue cultures, the rate of permeation of substances into cells can be measured independently of concurrent metabolic reactions of these substances. Techniques of obtaining and analyzing data are described. Examples are given using radioactive potassium and phosphorus. Using cultures of chick embryo muscle, turnover time for cell potassium is 6 hours, and for cell inorganic phosphate is 7 hours in the examples cited. Permeability rates, based on estimates of the cell surface involved and expressed as millimoles per cm. 2 per hour, are of the order of magnitude of 10 –6 for potassium and of 10 –7 for phosphate.
Integration of LEFM and strength criteria for the prediction of notched strength of polymeric composites

Abstract The prediction of the notched strength of polymeric composites has been the object of much interest in recent years. Theories based on both linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and strength criteria have been proposed by numerous investigators. In the present paper a model that integrates the concepts of a general strength criterion with the energy concept of LEFM is presented. This enables the transition between the extremes of both theories. Predictions made by the model are shown to compare well with experimental data for center-slit specimens of a variety of material systems. The use of the proposed model in ranking materials on the basis of notch sensitivity is also shown.
Evoked potential assessment of acupunctural analgesia: attempted reversal with naloxone

The effects of electrical acupunctural stimulation (2 Hz) on pain judgments and evoked potentials are reported for two experiments using dental dolorimetry. In the first experiment subjects received acupuncture at points located in the same neurologic segment as the test tooth. In the second experiment subjects received acupuncture at points on the hands located on acupuncture meridians. In both instances acupuncture resulted in a reduction in pain intensity and smaller evoked potential amplitudes, but naloxone neither reversed the analgesia nor did it affect the evoked potentials. A pilot study was carried out to determine whether manual rather than electrical stimulation would produce an analgesia reversible by naloxone, but it failed to do so. These findings contribute to the growing evidence that acupunctural stimulation significantly reduces pain sensibility in volunteers undergoing dolorimetric testing, but they do not support the hypothesis that endorphin release is a mechanism by which acupuncture exerts analgesia.
Thermal fixing of 10,000 holograms in LiNbO3 : Fe

We discuss thermal fixing as a solution to the volatility problem in holographic storage systems that use photorefractive materials such as LiNbO3:Fe. We present a systematic study to characterize the effect of thermal fixing on the error performance of a large-scale holographic memory. We introduce a novel, to our knowledge, incremental fixing schedule to improve the overall system fixing efficiency. We thermally fixed 10,000 holograms in a 90 degree-geometry setup by using this new schedule. All the fixed holograms were retrieved with no errors.
Caffeine antagonism of alcohol-induced driving impairment

The extent to which caffeine antagonizes alcohol-induced impairment of simulated automobile driving at the current lowest legal American limit (0.08% BrAC) was the focus of this study. Fifteen adults swallowed a capsule (0, 200, or 400 mg caffeine) then drank a beverage (0.0 or 0.6 g/kg ethanol) in a within-subject, double-blind, randomized procedure. Forty-five minutes later, participants completed a test battery of subjective effects scales, dynamic posturography, critical flicker fusion (CFF), choice reaction time (CRT), divided attention (Stroop test), and simulated driving. Alcohol alone increased ratings of 'dizzy', 'drug effect', and 'high', slowed CRT and brake latency, and increased body sway. Caffeine alone increased ratings of 'alert' and 'jittery', but did not significantly affect body sway or psychomotor performance. Both caffeine doses comparably counteracted alcohol impairment of brake latency but not CRT or body sway. Brake latency with either alcohol-caffeine combination remained significantly longer than that with placebo. Stroop and CFF performance were unaffected by any drug condition. The results suggest that caffeine may increase alertness and improve reaction time after alcohol use but will not completely counteract alcohol impairment in a driver.
Mechanisms of trophoblast-virus interaction

The human placenta serves as a barrier to the transmission of some viruses, but allows others to reach the fetal circulation. The resistance and permissiveness of the placenta to viral transmission appears to be determined in large part by the placental trophoblast. In order to define the mechanisms by which human trophoblast cells influence vertical transmission of viruses, we have studied the interaction of replication-deficient recombinant viral vectors with transformed human choriocarcinoma (BeWo) cells and primary trophoblast cell cultures. Recombinant adenovirus vectors efficiently transduce BeWo cells and primary trophoblast cells. However, as BeWo cells differentiate after treatment with cAMP analogs, they become relatively resistant to adenovirus-mediated transduction due to diminished uptake of the virus particles. This differentiation-dependent loss of adenovirus transduction may be related to the down-regulation of the coxsackie adenovirus receptor, which we have detected in undifferentiated trophoblast cells. Recombinant herpes simplex virus vectors also transduce undifferentiated BeWo cells and isolated cytotrophoblast cells, but transduction by herpes simplex virus vectors declines with cAMP-induced trophoblast differentiation, apparently due to reduced viral uptake. In contrast, cAMP treatment augments trophoblast transduction by recombinant adeno-associated virus, a member of the parvovirus family. This augmentation appears to be due to increased virus uptake by a yet to be determined mechanism. The understanding of the molecular basis of these interactions between recombinant viral vectors and trophoblast cells may yield strategies to prevent vertical transmission of viruses as well as to create opportunities to modify trophoblast function through gene transfer using viral vectors.
How far can wind-borne pollen be disseminated?

Abstract 1.1. On the basis of ragweed pollen found on slides exposed on 15 ships traveling between New York City and European ports in 1947, it is believed that ragweed pollen can be transported in the atmosphere, under suitable conditions of weather, a distance of at least 200 miles. 2.2. These findings on board ship are supported by the suggestive findings on slides exposed from multi-engine airplanes flying between New York City and Bermuda.
Name that tune: a pilot study in finding a melody from a sung query

We have created a system for music search and retrieval. A user sings a theme from the desired piece of music. The sung theme (query) is converted into a sequence of pitch-intervals and rhythms. This sequence is compared to musical themes (targets) stored in a data-base. The top pieces are returned to the user in order of similarity to the sung theme. We describe, in detail, two different approaches to measuring similarity between database themes and the sung query. In the first, queries are compared to database themes using standard string-alignment algorithms. Here, similarity between target and query is determined by edit cost. In the second approach, pieces in the database are represented as hidden Markov models (HMMs). In this approach, the query is treated as an observation sequence and a target is judged similar to the query if its HMM has a high likelihood of generating the query. In this article we report our approach to the construction of a target database of themes, encoding, and transcription of user queries, and the results of preliminary experimentation with a set of sung queries. Our experiments show that while no approach is clearly superior to the other system, string matching has a slight advantage. Moreover, neither approach surpasses human performance.
Loss and recovery of information by coarse observation of stochastic chain

In a stationary stochastic chain, the states are grouped into classes or coarsely defined macrostates, engendering another chain defined in terms of macrostates. Comparison of information content of these two chains is made in detail. Loss of information caused by the coarseness of the definition of macrostates can be recovered, partially or totally depending on the case, when there is correlation in the chain. The range of correlation in some cases is increased by the coarse definition of states, thus creating a longer “aftereffect.” If the correlation is weak, this aftereffect tapers off exponentially with time.
Trimethylation of Histone H3 Lysine 4 by Set1 in the Lytic Infection of Human Herpes Simplex Virus 1

Human herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is a double-stranded DNA virus that causes facial, ocular, and encephalitic disease in humans. Previous work showed that the genome of HSV-1 is associated with acetylated and methylated histones during lytic infection. However, the physiological role of histone modifications in lytic infection of HSV-1 is unclear. We examined the role of protein methylation in lytic infection of HSV-1 using a protein methylation inhibitor, 5'-deoxy-5'-methylthioadenosine (MTA). We found that MTA strongly reduces the transcription and replication of HSV-1. Moreover, MTA treatment decreases the level of trimethylation of lysine 4 in histone H3 (H3K4me3) on the HSV-1 genome. These results suggest that protein methylation, and in particular, histone methylation, is involved in the lytic infection of HSV-1. To delineate the underlying mechanism, we investigated the role of two H3K4 methyltransferases, Set1 and Set7/9, in the lytic infection of HSV-1. Using small interference RNA, we found that the reduction of Set1, but not Set7/9, reduces the transcription and replication of HSV-1 and specifically decreases H3K4me3 on the virus genome. These results indicate that H3K4me3 mediated by Set1 is required for optimal gene expression and replication of HSV-1 during lytic infection and suggest that this pathway could be a potential point of pharmacological intervention during HSV-1 infection.
Characteristics of submicron gate GaAs FET's with Al 0.3 Ga 0.7 As buffers: Effects of interface quality

GaAs field effect transistors (FET's) having submicron gate lengths (0.7 µm) and Al 0.3 Ga 0.7 As buffer layers were fabricated. The saturation, and particularly the pinch-off characteristics, showed a considerable dependence on the growth conditions used during preparation by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The structures grown at high substrate temperatures exhibited an excellent pinch-off characteristic, while those grown at low temperatures showed an inferior pinch-off characteristic. A transconductance of 160 mS/mm was obtained in all structures, regardless of the growth temperature.
Strategic thinking about nuclear energy: implications of the emerging market structure in electric generation

Global environmental concerns provide strong motivation for electric generating technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By itself, however, this incentive is probably not sufficient to reverse the long-term decline in the market share of nuclear energy. This is because the power plants now offered by the nuclear vendors mesh poorly with the needs of competitive generating markets. Where managers of generating companies are held accountable to share owners in a competitive environment, the nuclear power plants now offered in the market for new generating capacity are at a distinct disadvantage. As much of the world moves toward the competitive model, this disadvantage will become increasingly limiting. An alternative nuclear power plant concept and fuel cycle is needed, a radical departure from current practice, designed with the competitive marketplace in mind. To accomplish this, a new kind of institution is required: multinational in scope, oriented toward the market, and able to master the politics of the fuel cycle.
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF CUBIC AND MONOCLINIC ZIRCONIA BY X-RAY DIFFRACTION*

The X-ray diffraction technique presents a simple method for the quantitative analysis of mixtures of polymorphic forms of the same substance. The X-ray spectrometer provides a rapid means for such work. In the case of zirconia, the relative intensities of the cubic (111) reflection and the monoclinic (111) and (111) reflections are related to the proportions of each form present. Details of the specimen preparation technique, instrument operation, and specific calibration curves are included.
Micronutrient deficiencies in inflammatory bowel disease: From A to zinc

IBD has classically been associated with malnutrition and weight loss, although this has become less common with advances in treatment and greater proportions of patients attaining clinical remission. However, micronutrient deficiencies are still relatively common, particularly in CD patients with active small bowel disease and/or multiple resections. In this chapter, we will discuss the major essential micronutrients (B vitamins, vitamin C, fat-soluble vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and trace elements) and the risk of deficiency in IBD patients. We will also discuss risk factors for deficiency, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment for replacement. In addition, we will discuss the evidence for utilizing nutritional supplementation for primary and secondary prevention of IBD-related complications in high-risk patient populations, such as wound healing, skeletal bone loss, and colorectal cancer prevention.
Language as an interaction system

Abstract In this article I present a programmatic outline of a new kind of model of language, and offer some criticisms of standard approaches. The discussion begins with issues concerning representation because, so I argue, problems with standard approaches to representation are at the heart of notions of and problems with language.
A logistic regression mixture model for interval mapping of genetic trait loci affecting binary phenotypes.

Often in genetic research, presence or absence of a disease is affected by not only the trait locus genotypes but also some covariates. The finite logistic regression mixture models and the methods under the models are developed for detection of a binary trait locus (BTL) through an interval-mapping procedure. The maximum-likelihood estimates (MLEs) of the logistic regression parameters are asymptotically unbiased. The null asymptotic distributions of the likelihood-ratio test (LRT) statistics for detection of a BTL are found to be given by the supremum of a χ2-process. The limiting null distributions are free of the null model parameters and are determined explicitly through only four (backcross case) or nine (intercross case) independent standard normal random variables. Therefore a threshold for detecting a BTL in a flanking marker interval can be approximated easily by using a Monte Carlo method. It is pointed out that use of a threshold incorrectly determined by reading off a χ2-probability table can result in an excessive false BTL detection rate much more severely than many researchers might anticipate. Simulation results show that the BTL detection procedures based on the thresholds determined by the limiting distributions perform quite well when the sample sizes are moderately large.
Deficits in psychological well-being and quality-of-life in minor depression: implications for DSM-V.

Objective: To examine deficits in psychological well-being (PWB) and quality-of-life (QOL) in minor depressive disorder (Min D). Method: Ninety-three subjects entering a treatment study for Min D were assessed using the QOL, Enjoyment and satisfaction questionnaire (Q-LES-Q), and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS). Scores were compared with major depressive disorder (MDD) and normative community samples. Results: Even though subjects had mild depressive severity, Q-LES-Q total scores for the Min D sample averaged nearly two standard deviations below the community norm. Almost 40% of Min D cases had Q-LES-Q scores in the lowest 1% of the population. Responses to most Q-LES-Q items were closer to subjects with MDD than to community norms. Mean standardized PWB scores were extremely low for subscales of Environmental Mastery and Self-Acceptance, low for Purpose in Life and Positive Relations with others, but within the normal range for Personal Growth and Autonomy. QOL and PWB measures had low correlations with depressive symptom severity, and scores were similar in the presence or absence of a prior history of MDD. Conclusions: Mild depressive symptoms with Min D are associated with major deficits in QOL and PWB measures of environmental mastery and poor self-acceptance. Our findings suggest that diminished QOL and PWB may be intrinsic cognitive aspects of Min D with or without a history of MDD. It may be unnecessary in the DSM IV-TR to exclude the diagnosis of Min D if a subject has had a past episode of MDD. • Minor depression exists along a continuum of depression. • Deficits in psychological well-being and quality-of-life in minor depression are severe. • No difference in these measures if minor depression existed with or without a history of major depression.
In gratitude for all the gifts: Seamus Heaney and Eastern Europe

Most Seamus Heaney readers know that Heaney has been influenced by Eastern European poets. Heaney himself has chronicled this longstanding interest – in essays, interviews, articles, and poems. Yet...
Penetration into targets described by locked hydrostats and shear strength

Abstract The penetration of projectiles with conical and ogival nose shapes into target media described by a locked hydrostat and a linear shear failure-pressure relation is investigated. A cylindrical cavity expansion approximation is employed which idealizes the target as thin independent layers normal to the penetration direction and permits one-dimensional wave propagation calculations in the radial coordinate. Closed-form expressions are derived for the stresses on the penetrator nose, stress profiles in the target and the resultant axial force on the penetrator nose.
Reinforcing and punishing thoughts

Thoughts cannot be reinforced or punished as can overt behavior. Although reinforcers or punishers brought into temporal relationship with verbal behavior (or other behavior that expresses the thought) may increase or decrease that behavior, the thought itself, if it is changed, will not simply change in frequency but will reflect the new relationship between a group of behaviors and the environment.
Women in labour: The flapper vote and party system transformation in Britain

Abstract The impact of the enfranchisement of women under 30 upon the British party system is analyzed, especially the extent to which the Labour party at a crucial period in its rise to major party status was able to mobilize an uncommitted major segment of the electorate. The analysis seeks to supply an explanation missing from Butler and Stokes' finding of a sizable gender difference in class crossover voting among the interwar cohort. Both substantive and symbolic mobilization efforts are analyzed. Analysis of constituency electoral results for elections from the mid-1920s through the mid-1930s finds that the political crisis of 1931 undermined Labour's efforts to mobilize the female vote and appears in particular to have driven substantial numbers of working class women to vote for other parties, thereby weakening their support for Labour well into the postwar period. Labour's failure to mobilize young women meant that it was able to obtain major party status only when World War II experiences caused a substantial number of middle class men to swing to the party
Identification of an endosome-specific antigen.

Abstract We have used successive density gradient centrifugation with vesicles prepared from a human hepatoma Hep G2 post nuclear supernatant to obtain a highly enriched preparation of early endosomes. A monoclonal antibody (8E4) raised against this early endosome preparation recognizes a single polypeptide highly enriched in light vesicle membranes. The antigen has a molecular weight of 195 kDa by SDS-PAGE in the presence or absence of a reducing agent. Western blot analysis shows that the 8E4 antigen is detectable only in light vesicle membranes and not among heavy membranes, whole cytosol, or nuclear pellet proteins. The 8E4 antigen appears to be an integral membrane protein as it is precipitated by Triton X-114. The distribution of the 8E4 antigen in a Nycodenz density gradient fractionation of light vesicle membranes is identical to the distribution of 125I-ASOR-labeled early endosomes but distinct from the distribution of the plasma membrane enzyme, alkaline phosphodiesterase. In addition, incubation of cells with a horseradish peroxidase-transferrin conjugate followed by 3, 3′-diaminobenzidine cytochemistry specifically quenches 8E4 antigen detection by protein dot blot analysis. These data strongly suggest that the 8E4 antigen is an integral membrane protein primarily located in endocytic vesicles.
Compression-after-impact response of woven fiber-reinforced composites

This manuscript investigates compression-after-impact failure in woven fiber-reinforced composites. Compression failure of composite structures previously damaged by an impact event is due to the propagation of impact-induced damage mechanisms such as interlaminar debonding, constituent (i.e., matrix and fiber) microcracking, sublaminate buckling, as well as the interactions between these mechanisms. The failure mechanisms within each ply are idealized based on a reduced order multiscale computational model, in which, the damage propagation in the matrix and fibers upon compression is explicitly modeled. Delamination along the ply interfaces is idealized using a cohesive surface model. The initial impact-induced damage within the microconstituents and interfaces are inferred from experimental observations. A suite of numerical simulations is conducted to understand the sublaminate buckling, propagation of delamination and constituent damage upon compression loading. The numerical investigations suggest extensive propagation of delamination with mode transition preceding sublaminate buckling. Initiation and propagation of matrix and fiber cracking, observed upon sublaminate buckling, is the cause of ultimate shear failure.
Serial analysis of lumen geometry and hemodynamics in human arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis using magnetic resonance imaging and computational fluid dynamics

Abstract The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred form of vascular access for maintenance hemodialysis, but it often fails to mature to become clinically usable, likely due to aberrant hemodynamic forces. A robust pipeline for serial assessment of hemodynamic parameters and subsequent lumen cross-sectional area changes has been developed and applied to a data set from contrast-free MRI of a dialysis patient's AVF collected over a period of months after AVF creation surgery. Black-blood MRI yielded images of AVF lumen geometry, while cine phase-contrast MRI provided volumetric flow rates at the in-flow and out-flow locations. Lumen geometry and flow rates were used as inputs for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to provide serial wall shear stress (WSS), WSS gradient, and oscillatory shear index (OSI) profiles. The serial AVF lumen geometries were co-registered at 1 mm intervals using respective lumen centerlines, with the anastomosis as an anatomical landmark. Lumen enlargement was limited at the vein region near the anastomosis and a downstream vein valve, potentially attributed to the physical inhibition of wall expansion at those sites. This work is the first serial and detail study of lumen and hemodynamic changes in human AVF using MRI and CFD. This novel protocol will be used for a multicenter prospective study to identify critical hemodynamic factors that contribute to AVF maturation failure.
Developments in stereotactic ablative radiotherapy for the treatment of early-stage lung cancer

SUMMARY Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), also known as stereotactic body radiation therapy, has emerged as an effective treatment for inoperable early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer. SABR differs from conventional radiotherapy by virtue of its tight spatial tolerances and use of oligofractionated radiation. The modern technique is characterized by management of tumor motion, image guidance before each fraction and specialized radiation delivery techniques. The result is a highly conformal target dose with a sharp gradient that spares normal tissues with great accuracy. This enables delivery of very potent (ablative) doses, causing more rapid and durable responses than traditional radiation therapy treatment regimens can achieve. The established techniques, new developments and ongoing questions related to SABR for early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer are reviewed herein.
Inverse Sturm–Liouville problems with finite spectrum

Abstract We study inverse Sturm–Liouville problems of Atkinson type whose spectrum consists entirely of a finite set of eigenvalues. We show that given two finite sets of interlacing real numbers there exists a class of Sturm–Liouville equations of Atkinson type such that the two sets of numbers are the eigenvalues of their associated Sturm–Liouville problems with two different separated boundary conditions. Parallel results are also obtained for real coupled boundary conditions. Our approach is to use the equivalence between Sturm–Liouville problems of Atkinson type and matrix eigenvalue problems and to apply our development of the well-known theory for inverse matrix eigenvalue problems.
Glass particles as an adjuvant: A model for adverse immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins

Unwanted immune responses to parenterally administered therapeutic proteins pose serious safety and economic risks, but the mechanism(s) by which these responses are generated are unknown. We measured immune responses to aggregates of recombinant murine growth hormone (mGH) formed by agitation or freeze-thawing, two pharmaceutically relevant stresses, as well as to mGH adsorbed on microscopic glass or alum particles. Insoluble aggregates, even at levels below the detection limits of size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography analysis (<1%), induce immune responses when administered subcutaneously. Furthermore, we show that application of high hydrostatic pressures (200 MPa) reduces aggregate levels to 0.02 ng/dose and eliminates immunogenicity.
Morphologic characteristics of varicose veins: possible role of metalloproteinases

Abstract Background Although varicose veins are a common cause of morbidity, etiologic factors predisposing to dilatation, elongation, and tortuosity of the saphenous vein and its tributaries are poorly understood. We compared histologic features of normal and varicose saphenous veins and investigated the role of enzyme or inhibitor imbalance in development of varicosities. Methods Eight normal and 10 varicose (C 2,3 E P,S A S P R,O ) vein segments were used for this analysis. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and activity were analyzed with Western blotting and zymography. Venous architecture and protein localization were determined with histology and immunohistochemistry. Results Western blot analysis demonstrated the presence of MMP- 1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-12, as well as small quantities of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)–1 and TIMP-2 in protein isolates from normal and varicose veins. Both vein types demonstrated MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-12 activity by gelatin zymography, although varicose vein expressed less MMP-9 activity than normal vein did. Compared with normal veins, changes in varicose veins were not uniformly distributed along the circumference; areas of intimal thickening were often interspersed with focal areas of dilatation. Fragmentation of elastic lamellae and loss of circular and longitudinal muscle fibers were evident in the varicosities. Focal aggregates of macrophages were detected within the media and adventitia of both normal and varicose veins. MMP-1 and MMP-9 were expressed in both types of vein segments; however, their immunohistochemical localization was distinctly different. In normal vein, endothelial cells, occasional smooth muscle cells (SMC), and adventitial microvessels expressed MMP-1, whereas its expression was localized to fibroblasts, SMC, and endothelial cells throughout involved portions of varicose veins. MMP-9 was localized to endothelial cells, medial SMC, and adventitial microvessels in both normal and varicose veins, although varicose veins demonstrated increased medial smooth muscle cell staining. MMP-12 was found in SMC and fibroblasts in both normal and varicose veins. Neither TIMP-1 nor TIMP-2 were detected with immunohistochemistry in any specimens examined. Conclusions There are distinct differences in the structural architecture and localization of MMP expression in normal and varicose veins. Although the changes observed are not sufficiently definitive to enable a causal relationship, they do suggest a possible mechanism for the alterations in matrix composition observed between normal and varicose veins.
Multimedia Web services for mobile clients using quality aware transcoding

Mobile applications will increasingly depend upon multimedia information originating in the web and attempt to access this data over wireless networks that are more expensive and slower than typical wireline internet access from desktops. Transcoding is an important technique that can allow network proxy servers to offer differentiated service by customizing the delivered object size for the network bandwidth available on the “last hop” to the mobile client. We exploit technology that we had previously developed that characterized the quality versus size tradeoffs in transcoding JPEG images. This technology supplies more information for use in transcoding policy decision making. We evaluate the performance benefits of incrementally incorporating this information in a series of transcoding policies. The principal contribution of this work is the demonstration that it is possible to use informed transcoding techniques to balance the need for good quality of multimedia content while reducing consumed network bandwidth and server CPU overhead. We show that policies that aggressively transcode the larger images can produce images with Quality factor values that closely follow the un-transcoded base case while still saving as much as 150 KB. A transcoding policy that has knowledge of the characteristics of the link to the client can avoid as many as 40% of (unnecessary) transcodings.
Physical Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness Are Beneficial for White Matter in Low-Fit Older Adults

Physical activity (PA) and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are associated with better cognitive function in late life, but the neural correlates for these relationships are unclear. To study these correlates, we examined the association of both PA and CRF with measures of white matter (WM) integrity in 88 healthy low-fit adults (age 60–78). Using accelerometry, we objectively measured sedentary behavior, light PA, and moderate to vigorous PA (MV-PA) over a week. We showed that greater MV-PA was related to lower volume of WM lesions. The association between PA and WM microstructural integrity (measured with diffusion tensor imaging) was region-specific: light PA was related to temporal WM, while sedentary behavior was associated with lower integrity in the parahippocampal WM. Our findings highlight that engaging in PA of various intensity in parallel with avoiding sedentariness are important in maintaining WM health in older age, supporting public health recommendations that emphasize the importance of active lifestyle.
Evaluation of root canal débridement by the endosonic ultrasonic synergistic system

The endosonic ultrasonic synergistic system was compared to conventional hand-filing and irrigating techniques for its ability to debride the root canal system. Extracted human teeth were endodontically prepared by conventional and ultrasonic techniques. The roots were cross sectioned and evaluated microscopically at the 1, 3, and 5 mm. levels from the apex for cleanliness. The endosonically prepared canals were significantly cleaner at all levels.
Ion Scattering Spectrometry: A Versatile Technique for a Variety of Materials.

Abstract : The extraordinary surface sensitivity of low energy ion scattering spectrometry may be applied to the characterization of a wide variety of materials. On the one hand, the surface chemistry may be determined using ion scattering spectrometry for engineering materials used in diverse technologies such as lubrication and adhesive bonding; such surface chemistry, perhaps involving only a few monoplayers, may govern the success or failure of a process. On the other hand, ion scattering spectrometry is also useful in investigating the chemistry and physical and electronic structure of single crystals. The presence of fine features in the spectra enable shadowing and selective neutralization effects to be observed. Striking spectral features are seen in III-V, II-VI, and I-VII compounds. Scattered ion yield curves show a potential for the use of ion scattering spectrometry to determine bonding and electronic structure in some elements. In addition, conventional scattering experiments may be used to determine subtle elemental changes on crystal faces having different orientations. Adsorption-desorption characteristics of different orientations may also be studied in conjunction with the complementary secondary ion mass spectrometry technique. (Author)
Reliability characterization of 32nm high-k metal gate SOI technology with embedded DRAM

The reliability characterization of a high performance 32nm SOI CMOS technology featuring gate first High-K Metal Gate and embedded High-K Metal Fill DRAM is presented. This technology features high performance 0.9V thin dielectric devices and 1.5V thick dielectric I/O devices. Included are results of Hot Carrier, Bias Temperature, Planar and Trench Node TDDB, Gate to Contact, silicon eFUSE, SER, SRAM and Logic circuit reliability evaluations.
The Flowers that Bloom in the Spring: RNA Processing and Seasonal Flowering

Seasonal flowering in plants responds to hormonal and environmental cues that lead to expression of genes for flowering and growth. A new paper in this issue of Cell describes how one regulatory gene controls its own expression at the level of mRNA polyadenylation, adding an exciting new model for both the RNA processing and plant gene expression fields.
Manager characteristics and real estate mutual fund returns, risk and fees

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effects of individual manager characteristics on real estate mutual fund (REMF) performance. Human capital theory predicts that factors like education, experience and professional certifications improve skill sets and thus performance. Conversely, capital markets theory suggests that these things may be irrelevant in the management of mutual funds.Design/methodology/approach – A total of 63 REMFs were sampled over the period 2001‐2003 and equations were estimate regressing, alternatively, risk‐adjusted return, market risk and management fees on a series of fund variables and manager characteristics including the manager's tenure, whether the fund manager holds a professional certification, whether the manager has specific real estate experience, and whether the fund is team‐managed.Findings – Modest evidence is found that team‐managed funds have lower risk‐adjusted returns than solo‐managed funds. Managers with longer tenure tend to pursue higher marke...
Designing a Stratified Detection System for PET Cameras

The design of a staggered-exponential-multistrata (SEMS) detection system is presented. This design replaces the conventional detector ring with multiple staggered layers of detector rings. The thickness of the layers is increasing exponentially. The SEMS design can improve the spatial resolution, allowing the detector ring to be smaller and obviate the need for detector wobbling. The improvement is particularly significant in high resolution PETs and PETs designed for small objects such as the brain, animals, limbs and infants. Image resolution approaching the theoretical limit of positron-range can be achieved for the entire field of view (FOV), rather than just at the center of the FOV in the conventional design. The reduction in detector ring size increases the sensitivity and lower the cost of both the gantry and detection system. The elimimation of detector motion simplifies the gantry mechanics and cost. In addition, the image artifact resulting from the frequency beating of the heart cycle and detector wobbling cycle are also eliminated. The high resolution, high sensitivity, compactness and low cost make this design suitable for researches.
N.m.r. spectroscopy: A non-invasive tool for studying intracellular processes

The development of nuclear magnetic resonance (n.m.r.) spectroscopy as a non-invasive, non-destructive tool for the study of metabolic processes in cells and tissues is reviewed. Although n.m.r. measurements are subject to some limitations, e.g. low sensitivity and the need for special probes for in vivo work, the quality of n.m.r. instruments is steadily improving and wide bore spectrometers have been introduced. The article reviews in vivo n.m.r. studies of suspended and immobilized cells and also gives examples of the use of solid state n.m.r. Plant cell suspensions and tissues are good systems for study by n.m.r. as the Pi resonances from different compartments in the cell can be easily identified, and are important indicators of cellular metabolism. The literature on the use of magnetization transfer and on techniques for the study of enzyme catalysed reactions is also reviewed. Future applications of n.m.r. in examining biotechnological processes are discussed.
In situ fibril stretch and sliding is location-dependent in mouse supraspinatus tendons

Tendons are able to transmit high loads efficiently due to their finely optimized hierarchical collagen structure. Two mechanisms by which tendons respond to load are collagen fibril sliding and deformation (stretch). Although many studies have demonstrated that regional variations in tendon structure, composition, and organization contribute to the full tendon׳s mechanical response, the location-dependent response to loading at the fibril level has not been investigated. In addition, the instantaneous response of fibrils to loading, which is clinically relevant for repetitive stretch or fatigue injuries, has also not been studied. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to quantify the instantaneous response of collagen fibrils throughout a mechanical loading protocol, both in the insertion site and in the midsubstance of the mouse supraspinatus tendon. Utilizing a novel atomic force microscopy-based imaging technique, tendons at various strain levels were directly visualized and analyzed for changes in fibril d-period with increasing tendon strain. At the insertion site, d-period significantly increased from 0% to 1% tendon strain, increased again from 3% to 5% strain, and decreased after 5% strain. At the midsubstance, d-period increased from 0% to 1% strain and then decreased after 7% strain. In addition, fibril d-period heterogeneity (fibril sliding) was present, primarily at 3% strain with a large majority occurring in the tendon midsubstance. This study builds upon previous work by adding information on the instantaneous and regional-dependent fibrillar response to mechanical loading and presents data proposing that collagen fibril sliding and stretch are directly related to tissue organization and function.
Surface modifications through dealloying of Fe–Mn and Fe–Mn–Zn alloys developed to create tailorable, nanoporous, bioresorbable surfaces

Abstract The effects and mechanisms of dealloying Zn-diffused Fe–Mn alloys over a wide range of processing parameters have been investigated using a four-step surface modification technique. The dealloying process was applied to construct tailorable, nanoporous Fe–Mn alloys for the development of functional, bioresorbable implants. The results showed that nanoscale features can be deliberately designed by selectively leaching out the less noble metals from the outer surface layer to create an extensive variety of porous topographies. It was found that initial microstructure, Zn diffusion time, etching rate, annealing temperature and time, and the type of etching media all play a role in customizing the resulting dealloyed morphology. The resulting nano-sized structures have the potential to enhance initial cell attachment for future bioactive, resorbable materials.
Mercury Porosimetry: A General (Practical) Overview

The paper describes general concepts of mercury porosimetry measurements and provides an overview on the current status of pore-network analysis tools. Practical aspects of the technique are described as well as emphasizing the need for testing of model pore structures and the status on pore network modeling software.
Molecular Requirements for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Plus-Strand Transfer: Analysis in Reconstituted and Endogenous Reverse Transcription Systems

We have developed a reconstituted system which models the events associated with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) plus-strand transfer. These events include synthesis of plus-strand strong-stop DNA [(+) SSDNA] from a minus-strand DNA donor template covalently attached to human tRNA3Lys, tRNA primer removal, and annealing of (+) SSDNA to the minus-strand DNA acceptor template. Termination of (+) SSDNA synthesis at the methyl A (nucleotide 58) near the 3′ end of tRNA3Lys reconstitutes the 18-nucleotide primer binding site (PBS). Analysis of (+) SSDNA synthesis in vitro and in HIV-1 endogenous reactions indicated another major termination site: the pseudouridine at nucleotide 55. In certain HIV-1 strains, complementarity between nucleotides 56 to 58 and the first three bases downstream of the PBS could allow all of the (+) SSDNA products to be productively transferred. Undermodification of the tRNA may be responsible for termination beyond the methyl A. In studies of tRNA removal, we find that initial cleavage of the 3′ rA by RNase H is not sufficient to achieve successful strand transfer. The RNA-DNA hybrid formed by the penultimate 17 bases of tRNA still annealed to (+) SSDNA must also be destabilized. This can occur by removal of additional 3′-terminal bases by RNase H (added either in cis or trans). Alternatively, the nucleic acid chaperone activity of nucleocapsid protein (NC) can catalyze this destabilization. NC stimulates annealing of the complementary PBS sequences in (+) SSDNA and the acceptor DNA template. Reverse transcriptase also promotes annealing but to a lesser extent than NC.
New neutron sources

This paper describes the latest developments in neutron sources developed for fast neutron therapy. Two approaches have been taken using cyclotrons and D-T generators. For cyclotrons the proton on beryllium reaction is now preferred since smaller cyclotrons for a given neutron penetration can be used. Optimization of target thickness and filtration is necessary to obtain maximum beam penetration. D-T generators have been developed either as multi-beam accelerators or using ultrapure techniques to obtain maximum neutron output.
dCtBP-dependent and -independent repression activities of the Drosophila Knirps protein.

Transcriptional repressor proteins play essential roles in controlling the correct temporal and spatial patterns of gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster embryogenesis. Repressors such as Knirps, Kruppel, and Snail mediate short-range repression and interact with the dCtBP corepressor. The mechanism by which short-range repressors block transcription is not well understood; therefore, we have undertaken a detailed structure-function analysis of the Knirps protein. To provide a physiological setting for measurement of repression, the activities of endogenous or chimeric Knirps repressor proteins were assayed on integrated reporter genes in transgenic embryos. Two distinct repression functions were identified in Knirps. One repression activity depends on dCtBP binding, and this function maps to a C-terminal region of Knirps that contains a dCtBP binding motif. In addition, an N-terminal region was identified that represses in a CtBP mutant background and does not bind to the dCtBP protein in vitro. Although the dCtBP protein is important for Knirps activity on some genes, one endogenous target of the Knirps protein, the even-skipped stripe 3 enhancer, is not derepressed in a CtBP mutant. These results indicate that Knirps can utilize two different pathways to mediate transcriptional repression and suggest that the phenomenon of short-range repression may be a combination of independent activities.