cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mast Arm Monitoring via Traffic Camera Footage: A Pixel-Based Modal Analysis Approach

Traffic signal mast arm structures must be regularly inspected for cracking, bolt loosening, and other signs of deterioration. Due to large inventories, physical inspections and/or dedicated monitoring systems can be prohibitively time-consuming and expensive to implement at a large scale. However, the growing use of vision-based methods for structural monitoring applications introduces the possibility of leveraging video footage from existing traffic cameras for this purpose. The extraction of dynamic properties (i.e., natural frequencies and damping) from this footage could be employed in detecting possible signs of deterioration. This study presents a vision-based monitoring method which uses a single traffic camera to identify the modal properties of the supporting traffic signal mast arm. This was achieved via operational modal analysis on pixel displacements obtained from a traffic camera mounted on a traffic signal mast arm in Norfolk, VA, monitored during July, 2019. First, sub-pixel displacements were extracted frame-by-frame using weighted centroid tracking of pavement markings. Then, covariance-driven stochastic subspace identification (SSI-Cov) was employed to extract the mast arm fundamental frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes. For validation of the vision-based results, SSI-Cov was also applied to acceleration data recorded by two high-sensitivity accelerometers mounted on the structure. In total, the processing was carried out on four different videos and ten acceleration datasets. The vision-based method was able to reliably identify the fundamental frequencies of the structure (Δf < 0.005 Hz mean difference). The associated damping ratios were consistently overestimated but still close in structural terms (Δζ < 0.7% mean difference).
Bioprinted nanocomposite hydrogels: A proposed approach to functional restoration of skeletal muscle and vascular tissue following volumetric muscle loss.

Abstract Musculoskeletal conditions are the highest contributor to global disability, accounting for 16% of all ages lived with disability. Volumetric muscle loss (VML) is classified as significant damage to skeletal muscle compartments and motor units, leading to significant tissue loss, functional deficits, and long-term disability. In this review, the current tissue engineering approaches in terms of fabrication techniques, materials, cell sources, and growth factors for enhanced angiogenesis and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in VML repair, are discussed. Review of results recently published in the literature suggested that bioprinted nanocomposite hydrogels (NC gels) seeded with adult muscle progenitor cells that promote secretion of endogenous vascular growth factors have potential applications in promoting skeletal muscle regeneration, revascularization, and NMJ repair (Figure 1). Despite recent advancements, future research is needed on NC gels and the complex processes underlying vascular infiltration and NMJ repair in VML injuries.
Do crystallographic XFEL data support binding of a water molecule to the oxygen-evolving complex of photosystem II exposed to two flashes of light?

X-ray free electron laser (XFEL) crystallography could revolutionize mechanistic studies of photosystem II (PSII) by providing three-dimensional structures of its reaction intermediates that cannot be obtained using traditional crystallographic techniques. However, care must be taken to ensure that the XFEL data are interpreted correctly. Here, we challenge the conclusion that a water molecule adds to the oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) of PSII when crystals of dark-adapted PSII are exposed to two flashes of light (1). In each turn of its catalytic cycle, the OEC of PSII catalyzes a four-electron oxidation of two water molecules that produces a dioxygen (O2) molecule according to the Joliot–Kok model (2⇓⇓–5). A key mechanistic question is whether both of the oxygen atoms in the O2 product are already present in the dark-adapted OEC, or whether one of them is supplied by a water molecule (Ox) that adds to it after two flashes. Many investigators believe that the XFEL data support the latter (1, 6⇓–8). However, it has been pointed out earlier that the alleged Ox (also known as O6 in refs. 6 and 8) is found completely outside the electron density feature assigned to it in … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: jimin.wang{at}yale.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Performance and Environmental Assessment of an Advanced Aircraft with Open Rotor Propulsion

Application of high speed, advanced turboprops, or "propfans," to transonic transport aircraft received significant attention during the 1970s and 1980s when fuel efficiency was the driving focus of aeronautical research. Unfortunately, after fuel prices declined sharply there was no longer sufficient motivation to continue maturing this technology. Recent volatility in fuel prices and increasing concern for aviation s environmental impact, however, have renewed interest in unducted, open rotor propulsion. Because of the renewed interest in open rotor propulsion, the lack of publicly available up-to-date studies assessing its benefits, and NASA s focus on reducing fuel consumption, a preliminary aircraft system level study on open rotor propulsion was initiated to inform decisions concerning research in this area. New analysis processes were established to assess the characteristics of open rotor aircraft. These processes were then used to assess the performance, noise, and emissions characteristics of an advanced, single-aisle aircraft using open rotor propulsion. The results of this initial study indicate open rotor engines have the potential to provide significant reductions in fuel consumption and landing-takeoff cycle NOX emissions. Noise analysis of the study configuration indicates that an open rotor aircraft in the single-aisle class would be able to meet current noise regulations with margin.
Blind and Visually Impaired, Assistive Technology for

One of the most debilitating human conditions is blindness or severe visual impairment. Many assistive devices have been developed during the past decades to ameliorate the two primary challenges associated with this disability: access to reading material and independent mobility. This article presents an overview of the consequences of this impairment and examines the various technological aids currently available and under development to address these problems. This article discusses the consequences of blindness and severe visual impairment; assistive technology that facilitates access to written information; assistive devices that enhance independence in the activities of daily living; and mobility and navigational aids that enable persons who are blind or severe visual impaired to achieve safer and more independent travel. The article concludes with a prospective look at assistive technology likely to become available in the not too distant future. Keywords: electronic devices; braille; mobility aids; wayfinding; laser cane; navigational guide
Geometric constraint analysis and synthesis: methods for improving shape-based registration accuracy

Shape-based registration is a process for estimating the transformation between two shape representations of an object. It is used in many image-guided surgical systems to establish a transformation between pre- and intra-operative coordinate systems. This paper describes several tools which are useful for improving the accuracy resulting from shape-based registration: constraint analysis, constraint synthesis, and online accuracy estimation. Constraint analysis provides a scalar measure of sensitivity which is well correlated with registration accuracy. This measure can be used as a criterion function by constraint synthesis, an optimization process which generates configurations of registration data which maximize expected accuracy. Online accuracy estimation uses a conventional root-mean-squared error measure coupled with constraint analysis to estimate an upper bound on true registration error. This paper demonstrates that registration accuracy can be significantly improved via application of these methods.
MAST CELLS IN UTERINE MYOMETRIUM AND LEIOMYOMATOUS NEOPLASMS.

Abstract The numbers of mast cells were found to be fairly constant in the myometrium of the corpora uteri, and not to vary significantly with age or phase of the menstrual cycle. Reduced numbers of mast cells were present in gravid uteri. Considerable variation in numbers of mast cells occurred in the leiomyomatous tumors but the average counts were below those of the adjacent normal corresponding tissues. The average counts in leiomyosarcomas were about twice those in leiomyomas. There were no consistent findings to explain the high values encountered in some of the leiomyomatous tumors, although 2 such tumors had areas of extensive necrosis.
A reconfigurable add-drop filter using mems-actuated microdisk resonator

A novel vertically coupled tunable microdisk resonator with integrated MEMS tunable optical couplers is demonstrated. A reconfigurable add-drop filter based on this device shows an extinction ratio of 20 dB
The CCL7-CCL2-CCR2 Axis Regulates IL-4 Production in Lungs and Fungal Immunity

Expression of the chemokine receptor CCR2 can be detrimental or beneficial for infection resolution. Herein, we examined whether CCR2 was requisite for control of infection by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. H. capsulatum-infected CCR2−/− mice manifested defects in inflammatory cell recruitment, increased IL-4, and progressive infection. Increased IL-4 in CCR2−/− mice primarily contributed to decreased host resistance as demonstrated by the ability of IL-4-neutralized CCR2−/− mice to resolve infection without altering inflammatory cell recruitment. Surprisingly, numerous alveolar macrophages and dendritic cells contributed to IL-4 production in CCR2−/− mice. IL-4-mediated impairment of immunity in CCR2−/− mice was associated with increased arginase-1 and YM1 transcription and increased transferrin receptor expression by phagocytic cells. Immunity in mice lacking the CCR2 ligand CCL2 was not impaired despite decreased inflammatory cell recruitment. Neutralization of the CCR2 ligand CCL7 in CCL2−/− mice, but not wild type, resulted in increased IL-4 and fungal burden. Thus, CCL7 in combination with CCL2 limits IL-4 generation and exerts control of host resistance. Furthermore, increased phagocyte-derived IL-4 in CCR2−/− mice is associated with the presence of alternatively activated phagocytic cells.
The Conversing God: Exploring Trinitarian Information Transfer from the Perspective of Gordon Pask's Conversation Theory

The traditional Christian belief in the Trinity states that God exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Spirit, and that people were created in “the image of God.” This is understood to mean that humans reflect the nature of God and His ability to communicate. This ancient Christian concept has implications not only for theology, but also for communication within Christian communities. The goal of this paper is to explore the ability of a modern information theory to shed light on this doctrine and improve communication within the Church. This paper seeks to bridge the gap between ancient theology and modern theory by asking the following question: “Can Gordon Pask’s conversation theory serve as a framework for information transfer within the Trinity and within Christian religious communities?” The author’s perspective is that conversation theory can be used as a framework for exploring knowledge creation and sharing within the Trinity and subsequently within the Christian community. These new insights are based on Pask’s conceptualization of psychological and mechanical individuals, entailment meshes, and consciousness. As these concepts create new perspectives, they have significance for communities who model their communicating on Trinitarian theology. This discussion will be based on theoretical, theological, and biblical evidence which demonstrates that conversation theory is compatible Trinitarian theology. Conclusions include implications for the process of creating and sharing religious knowledge from the individual and the corporate perspective.
OF AUTHORSHIP AND AUDACITY: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF GENDER DISPARITY AND PRIVILEGE IN THE “TOP TEN” LAW REVIEWS

In today’s law schools, article placement is a significant consideration in hiring, promotion, tenure, and lateral mobility. This article analyzes authorship by gender and home school “privilege” in 15 law reviews (the “top ten”) over a three year period. It compares these data with the gender composition of the professoriate and of the 15 schools’ faculties, using Association of American Law Schools and American Bar Association statistics. The mean percentage of articles authored by one or more women (and no men) is 20.4. Nationally, women comprise 31% of the tenured/tenure-track professoriate and 28.3% at the 15 schools. At the associate and assistant professor levels, the national figures are 46.8% and 53.9% respectively. At schools ranked 15 to 40, however, the percentage of women authors is greater than their representation in the professoriate, with a mean of 34%. As to privilege, 42% of authors come from US News top ten schools, 64% from the top 25, and 75% from the top 50, cumulatively.The article considers a number of possible explanations for the gender disparity, including: years and subject matter of teaching; affirmative action; institutional and family commitments; and social science theories. At least as to the quantifiable hypotheses, none fully explains the disparity. The article concludes with the suggestion that editorial boards examine their selection processes for unconscious bias with regard to gender and conscious bias with regard to privilege and that they consider adopting true anonymous submissions. It also argues that some number of women academics do not pursue “audacity” techniques, such as aggressive expediting and soliciting endorsements, that may contribute to article placement in elite journals. Although the gender gap in hiring and promotion has largely been resolved, the top of the legal academic ladder will elude women until the gender disparity in publications is overcome.
Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-dependent stabilization of α1(I) collagen mRNA in human lung fibroblasts

We investigated the role of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) in the expression of α1(I) collagen mRNA. We report that the basal level of α1(I) collagen mRNA was reduced when PI3K activity was i...
The Thyroid Nodule

Palpable nodules of the thyroid are frequently encountered in clinical practice, and their evaluation requires the physician to be familiar with a growing number of diagnostic tools to identify those nodules representing cases of carcinoma that require surgical intervention. Under most circumstances, what constitutes optimal clinical management of nodular thyroid disease is somewhat controversial (1–6a). However, major professional organizations and the authoritative National Comprehensive Cancer Network have published consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules (7, 8, 9).
Analysis of Longitudinal Data

In health-related studies, researchers often collect data from the same unit (or subject) repeatedly over time. Measurements may be taken at different times for different subjects. These are called longitudinal studies. Diggle, Liang, and Zeger (1994) offer an excellent exposition of the issues related to the design of such studies and the analysis of longitudinal data. They also provide many interesting examples of data. We refer to their book for a thorough treatment of the topic. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the methods based on recursive partitioning and to compare the analyses of longitudinal data using different approaches.
Ramelteon attenuates age-associated hypertension and weight gain in spontaneously hypertensive rats

The neuroendocrine theory of aging suggests the common mechanisms of developmental (prereproductive) and aging (postreproductive) processes and identified a cluster of conditions (hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, menopause, late onset depression, vascular cognitive impairment, impairment of immune defense, and some forms of cancer) as age-associated neuroendocrine disorders (AAND). Obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes were later described as metabolic syndrome (MetS). Because melatonin attenuated development of MetS is age-dependent, that is, in young and old, but not in middle-aged rats, we studied the effect of the selective melatonin agonist, Ramelteon, on the two core symptoms of MetS/AAND: hypertension and body weight gain in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto male rats (WKY). SHR rats developed hypertension at the time of maximal weight gain that coincided with the onset of reproductive activity (8-10 weeks old). Chronic (but not acute) administration of Ramelteon (in drinking water, 8 mg/kg/day, from 4 to 12 weeks of age) attenuated age-associated increase of systolic blood pressure (tail-cuff method) by 45%, and age-associated body weight gain by 30%. Acute and chronic Ramelteon did not affect blood pressure and body weight in normotensive WKY rats. Ramelteon-induced attenuation of age-associated hypertension and weight gain suggests that Ramelteon might attenuate the other symptoms of MetS/AAND and might be useful in the treatment of MetS/AAND during puberty, menopause, and old age.
Individual Differences in Pediatric Cancer Patients' Reactions to Invasive Medical Procedures: A Repeated Measures Analysis

Previous research on child distress in pediatric cancer has addressed the issue of habituation to invasive procedures using correlational methodology. In addition, most studies have focused on the bone marrow aspiration (BMA); few have examined children's reactions to the lumbar puncture (LP) separately. The present investigation examined 13 pediatric cancer patients over time as they experienced five BMAs or LPs. Direct observation of child behavior during procedures was employed to assess distress responses using a 12-category measure. Individual patients demonstrated a range of distress patterns. Only two children were observed to habituate to these procedures. The importance of individual patient characteristics and differences in the execution of the procedures are discussed, as is the need for greater use of treatments for child distress.
Alterations in pulmonary protective enzymes following systemic bleomycin treatment in mice.

Abstract Repeated bleomycin administration in animals and humans produces significant lung fibrosis. The pathogenesis of this toxicity may be multifactorial, but it appears to be initiated through the production of radical oxygen species by an activated bleomycin-iron-oxygen ternary complex. Protection of lung tissue from bleomycin-induced toxicity may occur through both specific metabolic inactivation of bleomycin by the enzyme bleomycin hydrolase, as well as by such non-specific antioxidants as catalase and the glutathione system. The effect of chronic, systemic administration of bleomycin on the activities and levels of these enzymes and proteins in pulmonary tissue is unknown. C57BL/6 mice were injected subcutaneously with saline, non-fibrogenic (2mg/kg) and fibrogenic (10mg/kg) doses of bleomycin twice-weekly for 6 weeks. Animals were killed at 0, 1.5, 3, and 6 weeks after initiation of bleomycin treatment. Catalase activity was increased more than 50% at 3 weeks in the low-dose animals, and was decreased over 40% at 6 weeks in the high-dose animals. Total lung glutathione levels were unaffected in both groups, although glutathione reductase activity was increased significantly (over 2-fold) at 1.5 and 3 weeks in the high-dose animals. At 6 weeks glutathione reductase was increased 7- and 12-fold in low and high-dose animals respectively. Glutathione peroxidase activity also was elevated more than 2-fold above control values at 6 weeks in both sets of animals. There was no evidence of induction of bleomycin hydrolase activity at any time point. Rather, bleomycin hydrolase activity was decreased significantly to 30 and 40% of control values at 3 and 6 weeks, respectively, in mice receiving the fibrogenic doses of bleomycin. These results demonstrate that chronic, systemic administration of non-fibrogenic and fibrogenic doses of bleomycin produces changes in activity of lung antioxidant defense mechanisms. The early loss of lung bleomycin hydrolase activity may contribute to the pathogenesis of bleomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity following repeated drug exposure.
Pharmacogenomics of platelet responsiveness to aspirin

Aspirin is the most widely used drug in the world for cardiovascular protection. Aspirin's ability to suppress platelet function varies widely among individuals and lesser suppression of platelet function is associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular death. Platelet response to aspirin is a complex phenotype involving multiple genes and molecular pathways. Aspirin response phenotypes can be categorized as directly or indirectly related to cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) activity, with phenotypic variation indirectly related to COX-1 being much more prominent. Recent data indicate that variability in platelet response to aspirin is genetically determined, but the specific gene variants that contribute to phenotypic variation are not known. An understanding of the relationship between genotype, aspirin response phenotype and clinical outcome will help to bring about a personalized approach to antiplatelet therapy that maximizes antithrombotic benefit whilst minimizing bleeding risk for individual patients.
Exclusion of the human collagen type XVII (COL17A1) gene as the cause of Thiel-Behnke corneal dystrophy (CDB2) on chromosome 10q23-q25.

Purpose. Determination of the gene causing Thiel-Behnke Corneal Dystrophy (CDB2) would have important clinical implications. Previous studies in our laboratory have suggested that the COL17A1 gene ...
Pseudotumor cerebri in galactosemia

Three infants with signs of increased intracranial pressure in association with galactosemia are reported. The presence of a bulging fontanelle initially suggested other diagnostic possibilities, and led to the loss of valuable time before the correct diagnosis was made. The intracranial pressure in all three infants returned to normal after institution of a galactose-free diet.
Stable dielectric fracture at interconnects from electromigration stresses

Abstract An analysis is developed for fracture of the constraining dielectric adjacent to a conducting line undergoing electromigration in a microelectronic interconnection structure. The crack driving force associated with the electromigration-induced stress exhibits a destabilizing-to-stabilizing transition, corresponding to an initiation–propagation–arrest sequence for fracture in the dielectric. This sequence derives from the inclusion in the fracture kinetics of the dielectric of the zero-velocity threshold. A feature of the analysis is the competing time scales for development of the electromigration stress and for non-equilibrium crack extension. The model is applied to three dielectric systems incorporating an Al line in conventional SiO 2 and Al and Cu lines in a low- k silsesquioxane material.
The role of institutional research in understanding and describing faculty work

Understanding faculty workload is critical in assessing and describing institutional effectiveness. The Delaware Study of Instructional Costs and Productivity is one example.
A critique of cultural education in nursing.

A critique of cultural education in nursing Aim(s) of the paper. This paper critiques cultural education in nursing. Current approaches to cultural education, embedded in traditional anthropology, are obsolete and fail to acknowledge the global environment that impacts even the most remote and isolated cultures. The argument is made that new, tranformative approaches to cultural education are needed. Background. Cultural awareness of the other is the foundation of existing strategies to teach cultural education. Students are encouraged to learn about each culture, often described as a monolith, by learning the unique characteristics of a group with a common race, ethnicity, or other distinguishing feature. Despite the increased emphasis on cultural education in nursing worldwide, culturally based problems persist. Nurse and health care researchers continue to report disparities in health, an unequal distribution of health care, and the lack of knowledge and sensitivity when caring for clients from another culture. Discussion. Globalization contributes to differences within cultures that may equal or exceed differences between cultures. Evidence is presented that current nursing education emphasizes cultural distinctions that do not persist in the postmodern world. Problems adherent to the continued use of cultural monoliths as the foundation of cultural education are discussed and expanded perspectives on culture and cultural education are presented. Conclusion. The principles of transformative education are offered as an alternative to the current approaches to cultural education. Students are encouraged to be vulnerable to personal change when interacting with people from other cultures because transformative education is as much about personal growth as it is about enhanced care of others. This modernized approach to cultural education transcends the standard adaptation of care from the dominant culture of the health care delivery system to the culture of the client/patient.
Further Studies on the Use of Basic Dyes for Measuring the Hydrolysis of Fat

Summary A study is made of the free bases of Nile blue, methylene blue, spirit blue and neutral red, especially with respect to preparation, solubility, stability and contrast. The base of Nile blue is found to be highly unstable and unsuitable for use in fat analysis. Of the four dyes studied, the base of neutral red is recommended for general use. When excessive contrast is desirable, as in the microscopic study of very minute fat droplets, the use of neutral red base may be supplemented with some other dye base. Adaptation of the use of dye bases for determining the quality of edible fats has yielded promising results and is under further investigation.
Stereospecificity of Pseudomonas fluorescens kynureninase for diastereomers of β-methylkynurenine

Abstract The diastereomers of β-methyl- l -kynurenine were prepared by preparative ozonolysis of the respective diastereomers of β-methyl- l -tryptophan. A practical method for preparative enzymatic resolution of the diastereomers of β-methyltryptophan was developed using carboxypeptidase A digestion of the N-trifluoroacetyl derivatives. The stereochemical assignment was confirmed by X-ray crystal structure determination of (2S,3R)-threo-β-methyl- l -tryptophan. (2S,3S)-erythro-β-Methyl- l -kynurenine is a slow substrate for kynureninase from Pseudomonas fluorescens (kcat/Km=0.1% that of l -kynurenine), producing anthranilic acid, while (2S,3R)-threo- l -kynurenine is about 390-fold less reactive than erythro. Rapid-scanning stopped-flow measurements show that β-methyl substitution affects the rate of α-deprotonation of the l -kynurenine-pyridoxal-5′-phosphate Schiff's base. This is consistent with the stereoelectronic requirements of the reaction. These results are the first demonstration that β-substituted kynurenines can be substrates for kynureninase, and may be useful in the design of mechanism-based inhibitors.
Bullies, Victims, and Animal Abusers: Do They Exhibit Similar Behavioral Difficulties?

Abstract Two hundred forty-four male undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory psychology class completed surveys assessing animal abuse tendencies, bullying behaviors, and victimization by bullying during their K-12 school experience. Participants also completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, which evaluated their behavioral difficulties. Results revealed a significant relationship between animal abuse and bullying and victimization experiences. Moreover, animal abusers, bullies, and victims of bullying displayed significantly more behavioral problems when compared to nonabusers, nonbullies, and nonvictims. Multivariate analysis revealed a complex pattern of main effects for animal abuse, bullying, and victimization on the SDQ subscales. In addition, a three-way interaction between animal abuse, bullying, and victimization was identified for the SDQ Conduct Problems subscale. These results can be utilized to help identify areas of psychological functioning that may be of concern for this population.
NF-κB activation by N-CAM and cytokines in astrocytes is regulated by multiple protein kinases and redox modulation

Interaction of the neural cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM) with astro- cytes activates a transcription factor, NF-kB, that mediates inflammatory responses after neural injury. Here we describe intracellular signaling events that link N-CAM binding to NF-kB-mediated transcription. Addition of the third immunoglobulin domain of N-CAM (Ig III), which mimics the activity of intact N-CAM, or of cytokines (interleu- kin-1b or tumor necrosis factor-a), increased transcription from an NF-kB-responsive luciferase reporter gene construct that had been transiently transfected into neonatal rat forebrain astrocytes. NF-kB activity induced by Ig III or cytokines was decreased by inhibition of nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs), phospholipase C, protein kinase C (PKC), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), or oxidative stress. Inhibition of PKC blocked nuclear translocation of NF-kB protein while binding of NF-kB to DNA was decreased by modulation of redox homeostasis. In contrast, inhibition of CaMKII and nonreceptor PTKs altered neither nuclear translocation nor DNA binding, suggesting that these kinases affect NF-kB transactivation. A number of agents that inhibit NF-kB activation in other cell types did not affect activation in astrocytes. These findings suggest that activation of NF-kB by N-CAM and cytokines in astrocytes involves multiple signals that differentially affect NF-kB nuclear transloca- tion, DNA binding, and transactivation. GLIA 33:45-56, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Reaction of bulk hydrogen in Pd(111) with adsorbed CN: A possible controlled barrier for hydrogen diffusion

Abstract The reactivity of bulk hydrogen in Pd(111) with chemisorbed CN has been studied by temperature programmed desorption. It has been found that adsorbed CN effectively reacts above 420 K with surface H produced by diffusion from the bulk. This reaction completely suppresses C2N2(g) formation and H2(g) formation, producing HCN(g). Thus, CN(a) is an effective barrier material for bulk H diffusion in Pd.
A blocking technique for large scale structural analysis

Abstract A blocking technique for large scale structural analysis problems which utilizes the stiffness method is presented. The basic subroutines which form 1. (a) the structure stiffness matrix 2. (b) modify the structure matrix for boundary conditions 3. (c) decompose the modified stiffness matrix 4. (d) the righth and side 5. (e) perform the backward substitution for the unknown displacements are discussed in detail. These subroutines, which are presented in conjunction with a plane truss analysis, can be used in any frame analysis or in any finite element analysis in which each joint(node) has the same number of displacements. Calculations for a plane truss broken into four blocks are presented in detail.
Vanilloid-induced conduction analgesia: selective, dose-dependent, long-lasting, with a low level of potential neurotoxicity

Vanilloid agonists (capsaicin, resiniferatoxin, [RTX]) applied to the peripheral nerves provide conduction blockade. In contrast to the analgesic component of conduction anesthesia produced by local anesthetics, vanilloid agonists provide conduction analgesia not associated with suppression of motor or sensory functions not related to pain. Vanilloid agonists provide conduction analgesia selectively because their effect on the nerve trunks is limited to C- and ADelta-fibers. RTX is much more potent than capsaicin and has a wider therapeutic window. In rat experiments, perineural RTX produced a long-lasting thermal and mechanical hypoalgesia with a very wide separation between effective concentrations (from 0.00003% to 0.001%) providing an effect lasting from several hours to several weeks. A nerve block with RTX prevented the development of thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia as well as pain behavior in a model of incisional pain. RTX-induced conduction blockade has an inherent drawback of TRPV1 agonists, the initial excitation (pain); therefore, a local anesthetic should be injected to prevent it. When RTX was applied to the rat's sciatic nerve in doses necessary to provide conduction analgesia, the frequency of unmyelinated fiber degeneration was more than an order of magnitude lower than that with the therapeutic concentration of lidocaine. These promising results should be confirmed by experiments in species other than rodents (pigs, sheep). Taken together, the data indicate possible clinical applicability of vanilloid-induced conduction analgesia.
Functional recovery of odor representations in regenerated sensory inputs to the olfactory bulb.

The olfactory system has a unique capacity for recovery from peripheral damage. After injury to the olfactory epithelium, olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) regenerate and re-converge on target glomeruli of the olfactory bulb (OB). Thus far, this process has been described anatomically for only a few defined populations of OSNs. Here we characterize this regeneration at a functional level by assessing how odor representations carried by OSN inputs to the OB recover after massive loss and regeneration of the sensory neuron population. We used chronic imaging of mice expressing synaptopHluorin in OSNs to monitor odor representations in the dorsal OB before lesion by the olfactotoxin methyl bromide and after a 12 week recovery period. Methyl bromide eliminated functional inputs to the OB, and these inputs recovered to near-normal levels of response magnitude within 12 weeks. We also found that the functional topography of odor representations recovered after lesion, with odorants evoking OSN input to glomerular foci within the same functional domains as before lesion. At a finer spatial scale, however, we found evidence for mistargeting of regenerated OSN axons onto OB targets, with odorants evoking synaptopHluorin signals in small foci that did not conform to a typical glomerular structure but whose distribution was nonetheless odorant-specific. These results indicate that OSNs have a robust ability to reestablish functional inputs to the OB and that the mechanisms underlying the topography of bulbar reinnervation during development persist in the adult and allow primary sensory representations to be largely restored after massive sensory neuron loss.
Gain in target dose from using computer controlled radiation therapy (CCRT) in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract Purpose : A study was undertaken to evaluate the gain from Computer Controlled Radiation Therapy in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (a) to measure the gain in the minimum target dose provided by Computer Controlled Radiation Therapy and (b) to determine the change in the minimum target dose as a function of the lung tolerance limits. Methods and Materials : Six cases of non-small cell lung cancer were studied by simulating treatments with conventional and Computer Controlled Radiation Therapy techniques. For conventional treatments, a boost dose was delivered to the gross tumor volume via a pair of opposed oblique fields with a fixed gantry angle. For Computer Controlled Radiation Therapy, the gantry angle was allowed to change along the longitudinal axis of the patient. Prescriptions had to satisfy a bound on the maximum dose in the spinal cord and a limit on the amount of contralateral lung which could exceed 20 Gy. The boost dose was increased until either a tolerance limit was reached or minimum target dose of 80 Gy was delivered. Results : A minimum target dose of 80 Gy could be given to three of four patients who could not receive 80 Gy with conventional therapy. A minimum target dose of 80 Gy could be given to the remaining two patients with either technique. Conclusion : The gain from computer controlled radiation therapy strongly depended on the chosen lung tolerance limit. A 10 to 20 Gy gain in minimum target dose could be found for some patients, but the gain was significantly reduced for a relatively small decrease in the amount of lung permitted a dose above 20 Gy.
Isomorphism Classes of Rings Related to Heisenberg Algebras

Abstract In this paper we examine isomorphism classes of algebras which are generalizations of the enveloping algebra of the Heisenberg Lie algebra.
Synthesis, droplet combustion, and sooting characteristics of biodiesel produced from waste vegetable oils

Abstract In light of the potential of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME, i.e. biodiesel) as a renewable energy source, an innovative acid catalyzed process was developed for the synthesis of biodiesel from waste vegetable oils. The synthesized biodiesels were analytically characterized for their major components, molar fraction and molecular weight of each component, the average molecular weight, and the heat of combustion. Their droplet combustion characteristics in terms of the burning rate, flame size, and sooting tendency were subsequently determined in a high-temperature, freely-falling droplet apparatus. Results show that the biodiesel droplet has higher burning rate, and that biodiesel in general has a lower propensity to soot because its molecular oxygen content promotes the oxidation of the soot precursors.
Improving narrow bandgap a-SiGe:H alloys grown by hot-wire chemical vapor deposition

Abstract We have improved the electronic properties of narrow-bandgap (Tauc gap below 1.5 eV) amorphous-silicon germanium alloys (a-SiGe:H) grown by hot-wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) by lowering the substrate temperature and deposition rate. Prior to this work, we were unable to grow a-SiGe:H alloys with bandgaps below 1.5 eV that had photo-to-dark conductivity ratios comparable with our plasma-enhanced CVD (PECVD) grown materials [B.P. Nelson et al., Mater. Res. Soc. Symp. 507 (1998) 447]. Decreasing the filament diameter from our standard configuration of 0.5 mm to 0.38 or 0.25 mm provides first big improvements in the photoresponse of these alloys. Lowering the substrate temperature from our previous optimal temperatures ( T sub starting at 435 °C) to at 250 °C provides additional photo-to-dark conductivity ratio increasing by two orders of magnitude for growth conditions containing 20–30% GeH 4 in the gas phase (relative to the total GeH 4 +SiH 4 flow).
Plasma histamine concentrations in evaluation of pediatric mastocytosis.

Mastocytosis is a disease characterized by an increase in the number of tissue mast cells and a concomitant increase in mast cell-derived mediators. In pediatric mastocytosis, the predominant cutaneous forms are urticaria pigmentosa and diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis. In the less commonly diagnosed systemic mastocytosis, abnormal mast cell accumulations may be found in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, spleen, and bone marrow? Adults with mastocytosis have elevated plasma and urine histamine levels 25 that correlate with the extent of bone involvement and basal gastric acid output, a'5 In contrast, little is known concerning histamine values in children with this disease. To determine whether plasma histamine concentrations are elevated in children with mastocytosis, and to assess the relationship of plasma histamine levels to the category and severity of disease, the information obtained during the routine evaluation of children with mastocytosis was correlated with plasma histamine measurements. METHODS Nine children aged 3 months to 8 years who were referred over 9 months to the National Institutes of Health with a tentative diagnosis of mastocytosis were examined to confirm the diagnosis and to assess the extent of disease. Medical evaluation consisted of a history, physical examination, laboratory studies (complete blood cell count with differential, serum chemistry, serum immunoglobulins, urinalysis), and posterior iliac crest bone marrow examination. 6 Additional diagnostic studies were performed if the patient's history or physical examination suggested systemic involvement. Informed consent was obtained for specific procedures as required by the NIH Clinical Center.
Distance perception in real and virtual environments

Two experiments were conducted to compare distance perception in real and virtual environments. In Experiment 1, adults estimated how long it would take to walk to targets in real and virtual environments by starting and stopping a stopwatch while looking at a target person standing between 20 and 120 ft away. The real environment was a large grassy lawn in front of a university building. We replicated this scene in our virtual environment using a nonstereoscopic, large screen immersive display system. We found that people underestimated time to walk in both environments for distances of 40--60 ft and beyond. However, time-to-walk estimates were virtually identical across the two environments. In Experiment 2, 10- and 12-year-old children and adults estimated time to walk in real and virtual environments both with and without vision. Adults again underestimated time to walk in both environments for distances of 60 ft and beyond. Again, their estimates were virtually identical in the real and virtual environment both with and without vision. Children's time-to-walk estimates were also very similar across the two environments under both viewing conditions. We conclude that distance perception may be better in virtual environments involving large screen immersive displays than those involving head mounted displays (HMDs).
Structure and property changes in spinel irradiated with heavy ions

Abstract We have studied the changes in microstructure and elastic modulus of single crystal MgAl 2 O 4 irradiated with 12 MeV Au 3+ at about 100 K to a fluence of 1.5 × 10 16 ions/cm 2 . High-resolution electron microscopy and electron diffraction from cross-sectional samples indicate that the irradiated layer remains crystalline even after a peak damage dose of about 33 displacements per atom (dpa). In addition, dark-field electron microscopy reveals that the irradiated layer contains small defect clusters which indicate a high point defect mobility. Young's modulus determined by nano-indentation does not show any significant changes. These results, which are in contrast to the amorphization and 30% decrease in Young's modulus previously observed following 400 keV Xe 2+ irradiation at 100 K, are interpreted in terms of the large electronic to nuclear stopping power ratio of the 12 MeV Au 3+ irradiation and the possibility of beam heating during irradiation.
Hearing Loss and Erythromycin Pharmacokinetics in a Patient Receiving Hemodialysis

• A left upper lobe pneumonia developed in a patient who was receiving hemodialysis; he was treated intravenously with 1 g of erythromycin lactobionate every six hours. After five doses, hearing loss was noted; this was later documented by audiogram. Erythromycin serum concentrations as high as 100 mg/L and a half-life more than three times longer than normal were observed. To our knowledge, this represents the first report of reversible hearing loss associated with elevated serum erythromycin concentrations and prolonged serum half-life. ( Arch Intern Med 1983;143:1263-1265)
The BrachyVAC: A New Method for Managing Sarcomas Requiring Soft Tissue Reconstruction

The treatment of patients with superficial spreading sarcomas can be challenging. Determining margin status, delivery of radiation therapy as needed, and soft tissue reconstruction can all be difficult. Specifically, delivering radiation to the appropriate region can be inexact, and it often compromises the soft tissue reconstruction. We have developed a novel technique that allows us to offer complete treatment (surgical excision, radiation, and reconstruction) in a manner that minimizes both time and soft tissue complications. This method, called BrachyVAC therapy, allows total treatment to be completed within approximately two weeks, and delivers no radiation to the reconstructed tissues.
Cytokine regulation of tryptophan metabolism in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis: implications for protective and toxic consequences in neuroendocrine regulation.

1. Aim: Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) catalyzation of tryptophan is the first rate-limiting step of the kynurenine pathway in the majority of tissues. The kynurenine pathway produces neurotoxic metabolites such as 3-hydroxykinurenine and quinolinic acid. IDO is inducible by the cytokine interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and has been proposed to mediate the sickness behavior of patients with infectious or other inflammatory diseases. To better understand the neuroendocrine component of cytokine induced sickness behavior we determined the effects of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 on IDO expression in cells derived from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA): GT1-7 hypothalamic, AtT-20 pituitary, and Y-1 adrenal cells. 2. Methods: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to check the IDO expression from IFN-γ and IL-10 treated cells such as GT1-7, AtT-20 and Y-1 cells. 3. Results: We found that IFN-γ induces IDO expression after 4 h treatment in GT1-7 and AtT-20 cells. IL-10 was also able to suppress IFN-γ induced IDO expression in these cells. In Y-1 adrenal cells, IFN-γ treatment had no effect on IDO expression. 4. Conclusions: Our results indicate that cytokines such as IFN-γ and IL-10 are able to regulate IDO expression in cells of hypothalamic and pituitary origin. The ability of IL-10 to suppress IFN-γ induced IDO expression implies that IL-10 has a putative neuroprotective role in the HPA axis. It can act at two levels, systemically by inhibiting sickness behavior—related Th1 cytokine synthesis and more centrally by inhibiting the kynurenine pathway.
Effects of temperature and pressure on short term storage of platelets

NONE of the methods suggested so far to improve the storage life of platelets has proved entirely satisfactory1–5. Storage at 22° C is the most accepted method3, and other suggestions include the use of chemical additives such as prostaglandin E1 (ref. 5) or freezing techniques7–9. Studies involving a controlled rate of freezing and thawing in the presence of dimethyl sulphoxide have been encouraging10–12, but a better method is desirable as the need for platelets is increasing rapidly. An improved method of storage might be developed if the normal discoid shape could be maintained. Furthermore, if the change in shape that occurs when platelets are cooled is accompanied by an increase in volume, as has been suggested13–15, or if the strength of the bonds maintaining the secondary and tertiary structure of the protein of the platelets is affected significantly by temperature or pressure, the application of sufficient pressure might shift the equilibrium towards a conformation favouring the discoid form. We have now found that pressure (2,500–9,000 pound inch−2) (17.24–61.65 N m−2) prevents to a considerable degree these changes in shape, and restores the shape of platelets in concentrates that have been kept at 2° C and atmospheric pressure for 1–2 h.
Connection metrics of nonnegative curvature on vector bundles

Abstract It is shown that a vector bundleE over a compact positively curved manifold admits complete Riemannian metrics of nonnegative sectional curvature, provided there exists a Riemannian connection onE with almost parallel curvature tensor.