cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thermal history-dependent superconductivity and local structure in La2CuO4+δ

Abstract DC magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal a dependence of the superconducting critical temperature ( T c ) on the cooling rate ( R ) in super-oxygenated La 2 CuO 4+δ . Bulk T c 's vary by ≈ 4 K depending on whether the sample is “quenched” or slow cooled through a narrow temperature range around 195 ± 10 K. 139 La nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy (NQR) shows the appearance of a feature indicating a distribution of local structures in the metallic phase below ≈ 195 K, the same temperature regime where R is critical for T c . The spectral weight associated with the metallic phase appears to increase for rapid cooling.
Simultaneous determination of intracellular free calcium and aldosterone production in bovine adrenal zona glomerulosa.

Abstract Angiotensin II (AII) induces an initial rapid but transient rise in [Ca 2+ ] i detected with aequorin in bovine adrenal capsule strips. The rise in [Ca 2+ ] i begins immediately after AII addition, reaches a peak in 30 seconds, and returns to near basal values within 5 minutes. The [Ca 2+ ] i transient is receptor-mediated and its height is dose-dependent. The increase in [Ca 2+ ] i is largely due to the release of Ca 2+ from an intracellular pool. The uncorrected peak rise in [Ca 2+ ] i after 1×10 −6 M β-[asp 1 ]-AII stimulation is approximately 3 fold, from 110nM to 300nM; the peak rise, corrected for diffusion and nonsynchronous cellular response, is from 110nM to 1.2μM. Perifusion of aequorin-loaded strips with π-[asp 1 ]-AII, an aminopeptidase-resistant analog of AII, allows the simultaneous measurement of [Ca 2+ ] i and aldosterone production rate. Levels of agonist which generate a transient rise in [Ca 2+ ] i also produce a sustained increase in aldosterone production rate, but the two events are temporally separated: the transient rise in [Ca 2+ ] i precedes the increase in aldosterone production rate. However, there is a strong correlation, r=0.94, between the amplitude of the initial [Ca 2+ ] i transient and the magnitude of the sustained increase in steroid production rate.
Host evasion by emerging paramyxoviruses : hendra virus and nipah virus V proteins inhibit interferon signaling

Interferon (IFN) can activate Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) proteins to establish a cellular antiviral response and inhibit virus replication. Many viruses have evolved strategies to inhibit this antiviral mechanism, but paramyxoviruses are unique in their abilities to directly target the IFN-responsive STAT proteins. Hendra virus and Nipah virus (Henipaviruses) are recently emerged paramyxoviruses that are the causative agents of fatal disease outbreaks in Australia and peninsular Malaysia. Similar to other paramyxoviruses, Henipaviruses inhibit IFN signal transduction through a virus-encoded protein called V. Recent studies have shown that Henipavirus V proteins target STAT proteins by inducing the formation of cytoplasmically localized high molecular weight STAT-containing complexes. This sequestration of STAT1 and STAT2 prevents STAT activation and blocks antiviral IFN signaling. As the V proteins are important factors for host evasion, they represent logical targets for therapeutics directed against Henipavirus epidemics.
Bactericidal efficiency of intracanal medications.

Abstract Intracanal medications in endodontics are used for their bactericidal efficiency. However, since they operate by vaporization, then the vapors of the drug must be tested, not the drug itself. Extracted teeth were sterilized and the drug was sealed in. In Part I the effect through the apex was tested, and in Part II the intracanal effect was tested.
Surface impedance of superconductors with magnetic impurities

Motivated by the problem of the residual surface resistance of the superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) cavities, we develop a microscopic theory of the surface impedance of $s$-wave superconductors with magnetic impurities. We analytically calculate the current response function and surface impedance for a sample with spatially uniform distribution of impurities, treating magnetic impurities in the framework of the Shiba theory. The obtained general expressions hold in a wide range of parameter values such as temperature, frequency, mean free path, and exchange coupling strength. This generality, on the one hand, allows for direct numerical implementation of our results to describe experimental systems (SRF cavities, superconducting qubits) under various practically relevant conditions. On the other hand, explicit analytical expressions can be obtained in a number of limiting cases, which makes possible further theoretical investigation of certain regimes. As a feature of key relevance to SRF cavities, we show that in the regime of ``gapless superconductivity'' the surface resistance exhibits saturation at zero temperature. Our theory thus explicitly demonstrates that magnetic impurities, presumably contained in the oxide surface layer of the SRF cavities, provide a microscopic mechanism for the residual resistance.
Comment on: “Can financial innovation help to explain the reduced volatility of economic activity?”

As Dynan, Elmendorf, and Sichel (henceforth DES) note, the volatility of economic activity fell substantially sometime from the middle of the 1980s to the early 1990s. This decline is documented by McConnell and Perez-Quiros (2000) and Kim and Nelson (1999). Indeed, as shown in Table 1 of DES, the standard deviation of quarterly GDP growth was 4.4% in the 1960–1984 period, but 2.1% in the 1985–2004 period. This decline was not confined to quarterly growth rates: annual growth rates were also affected. Annual GDP growth had a volatility of 2.8% in the earlier period, but 1.4% in the later period. Stock and Watson (2002) demonstrate that this volatility decline also occurred in a number of other macroeconomic time series, indicating that data construction is unlikely to be the explanation. Lettau et al. (2005) show that this decline can help to explain the sustained run-up in equity valuations that occurred in the 1990s. Clearly this decline in volatility is important, and understanding its underlying causes promises to be very useful. Among the explanations given for the decline in macroeconomic volatility are a shift in the economy from production to services, changes in monetary policy, and changes in
Gears of our childhood: constructionist toolkits, robotics, and physical computing, past and future

Microcontroller-based toolkits and physical computing devices have been used in educational settings for many years for robotics, environmental sensing, scientific experimentation, and interactive art. Based on a historical analysis of the development of these devices, this study examines the design principles underlying the several available platforms for physical computing and presents a framework to analyze various platforms and their use in education. Given the now widespread use of these devices among children and their long history in the field, a historical review and analysis of this technology would be useful for interaction designers.
The Expert Group Work Supervision Process: Apperception, Actions, and Interactions

The researchers conducted a systematic exploration of the experiences of expert group work supervisors during the supervision process. This article's purpose is to report results that inform intentional practice and illustrate supervision interventions for group work supervisors. Results indicated that participants experienced an interactive process of apperception and actions situated within the context of their beliefs about group work and supervision and knowledge about multiple levels of the system. This article provides a detailed account of the interrelationship of supervisor understanding and actions, examples of group work supervision interventions, and implications for group work supervision, training, and further research.
Surface potential fluctuations in MOS devices induced by the random distribution of channel dopant ions

The AC split CV technique has been used to measure the gate-channel capacitance of n- and p-channel MOSFETs with channel doping densities in the range 3*10/sup 16/-4*10/sup 18/ cm/sup 4-3/ at 295 and 77 K. Comparison to simulation has revealed a stretch-out of the measured characteristics that can be modeled by assuming a lateral threshold voltage nonuniformity with a Gaussian probability distribution. The observed variance of the threshold voltage has been accurately predicted by a three-dimensional model based on the method of images, which includes only the contribution from a random distribution of dopant ions in the depletion region. In addition to affecting the charge-voltage characteristics, surface potential fluctuations also affect carrier transport in MOS devices by introducing potential barriers in the channel. The resulting thermally activated transport process causes a reduction in the effective carrier mobility at low inversion charge densities, which has been characterized for both n- and p-channel devices at room and liquid-nitrogen temperature. The results of this study clearly demonstrate the presence of surface potential fluctuations in MOS devices, resulting from the random channel dopant ion distribution. While the effects of the surface potential fluctuations do not become significant until doping densities approach the 10/sup 18/ cm/sup -/3 level at room temperature, measurable departures from simple theory occur over the entire doping density range studied. >
Differential Activation of Human Monocyte-Derived and Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells by West Nile Virus Generated in Different Host Cells

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a central role in innate immunity and antiviral responses. In this study, we investigated the production of alpha interferon (IFN-alpha) and inducible chemokines by human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (mDCs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) infected with West Nile virus (WNV), an emergent pathogen whose infection can lead to severe cases of encephalitis in the elderly, children, and immunocompromised individuals. Our experiments demonstrated that WNV grown in mammalian cells (WNV(Vero)) was a potent inducer of IFN-alpha secretion in pDCs and, to a lesser degree, in mDCs. The ability of WNV(Vero) to induce IFN-alpha in pDCs did not require viral replication and was prevented by the treatment of cells with bafilomycin A1 and chloroquine, suggesting that it was dependent on endosomal Toll-like receptor recognition. On the other hand, IFN-alpha production in mDCs required viral replication and was associated with the nuclear translocation of IRF3 and viral antigen expression. Strikingly, pDCs failed to produce IFN-alpha when stimulated with WNV grown in mosquito cells (WNV(C7/10)), while mDCs responded similarly to WNV(Vero) or WNV(C7/10). Moreover, the IFN-dependent chemokine IP-10 was produced in substantial amounts by pDCs in response to WNV(Vero) but not WNV(C7/10), while interleukin-8 was produced in greater amounts by mDCs infected with WNV(C7/10) than in those infected with WNV(Vero). These findings suggest that cell-specific mechanisms of WNV recognition leading to the production of type I IFN and inflammatory chemokines by DCs may contribute to both the innate immune response and disease pathogenesis in human infections.
Thapsigargin Induces Phosphorylation of the 27-kDa Heat Shock Protein in Human Keratinocytes

In the human keratinocyte line HaCaT, the nonphosphorylated 27-kDa heat shock protein (HSP27) isoform A (pI 6.5) is constitutively expressed. Application of thapsigargin, which inhibits Ca2+-ATPase in the endoplasmic reticulum, results in the rapid formation of the phosphorylated HSP27 isoform B (pI 6.0) and reduction of HSP27 A without affecting the synthesis of HSP27. The thapsigargin-dependent HSP27 isoform change is similar to that induced by 43 degrees C heat shock, but different from that induced by arsenite, where the biphosphorylated isoform HSP27 C (pI 5.7) is observed. The receptor agonist bradykinin, which increases intracellular Ca2+ (Ca(i)) level, shows no effect on the distribution of HSP27 isoforms. The responses of HSP27 isoforms to thapsigargin are independent of Ca(i) concentration in HaCaT cells. These observations suggest that the thapsigargin-induced change in HSP27 isoforms is dependent on the depletion of internal Ca2+ stores rather than on the increase in Ca(i) concentration. The thapsigargin-induced change in HSP27 isoforms is reduced by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein, but not the protein kinase C inhibitor, H-7. We propose that the modulation of HSP27 phosphorylation status by Ca(i) homeostasis may be mechanistically linked to control of keratinocyte growth and differentiation and responses of keratinocytes to extracellular stresses.
The phenotypic characterization of lymphocyte subpopulations in established human periodontal disease.

Phenotypic characterization of lymphoid cell subpopulations in the lesionof established chronic inflammatory periodontal disease in man was carried out using indirect immunofluorescence to dectct the presence of human thymocyte antigen, human myeloid antigen, IgG-and IgM-bearing cells in situ in the lesion. The majority of lymphiod cells were IgM-positive T-cells were found. These results suggest that established chronic infalmmatory periodontal disease in man should be considered as a B-cell lesion. The role of the T-cells in the lesion May be primarily one of helper activity, although cell-mediated immune mechanisms cannot be precluded.
The contingency model—A reply to ashour

Abstract While Ashour points to a number of improvements which would be desirable in the methodology of research on the Contingency Model, the available evidence as well as an examination of his statistical reasoning refute his major criticisms of the model's validity and the methodological rigor of the research.
The hidden observer and multiple personality.

Abstract The “hidden observer” phenomenon as observed in the laboratory is too limited to conclude that its presence indicates an incipient multiple personality: The laboratory studies suggest directions of research that may eventually bring experimental studies of dissociation and clinical studies of multiple personalities together.
Effects of postovulatory aging on leucine uptake and incorporation in mouse eggs. A brief note.

Abstract In order to delineate biochemical alterations during gamete senescence leucine uptake and incorporation in aging mouse eggs were investigated. One hour after ovulation eggs were removed from the oviducts and labeled (unaged) or incubated for 24 hours before labeling ( in vitro aged) with [ 3 H]leucine. In vivo aged eggs were removed from the oviducts 25 hours after ovulation and incubated in medium containing [ 3 H]leucine. Aging of eggs for 24 hours resulted in a significant increase in the accumulation of [ 3 H]leucine. The observed increase was larger in ova aged in vitro than in vivo , indicating that culture conditions affect leucine accumulation. Comparison of in vitro aged and unaged eggs revealed no significant difference in net leucine incorporation into acid-insoluble material. In addition to previously documented morphological alterations, the data presented herein describe some of the biochemical changes that accompany aging of the mouse ovum. These results are discussed in light of theories of aging proposed for somatic cells.
Monaural envelope correlation perception.

The ability to discriminate between simultaneously presented 100‐Hz‐wide bands of noise with envelopes that were either similar or dissimilar was measured. The center frequencies of the noise bands, fL and fL+Δf Hz, were systematically varied. When the bands of noise were separated by an octave, Δf=fL, discriminations were at chance levels. For frequency separations less than an octave, Δf<fL, discrimination was best for fL=2500 and 4000 Hz, somewhat poorer for fL=1000 Hz, and impossible for fL=350 Hz. Listeners were also asked to discriminate between bands of noise with envelopes that were either perfectly or partially correlated, and bands with envelopes that were either uncorrelated or partially correlated. The data suggest that, when transformed to an equal‐variance scale (Fisher’s z), equal changes in Fisher’s z lead to equal changes in detectability, regardless of the correlation of the envelopes of the reference signal.
Wet corn gluten feed as a supplement for lactating dairy cattle and growing heifers.

A lactation trial and a heifer growth trial were conducted to evaluate use of wet corn gluten feed by dairy herds. Twelve multiparous and 4 primiparous Holsteins were assigned to 4 x 4 Latin squares blocked according to previous production or parity. Animals received increasing amounts of wet corn gluten feed, up to 36% of ration DM, in place of a dry corn and soybean meal concentrate mixture. Each kilogram of wet corn gluten feed DM replaced .9 kg concentrate DM. Diets were based on ensiled forage with 33% of forage DM from wilted alfalfa silage and the remainder from corn silage. Forage and supplement were fed separately. Milk production, composition, and DM intake were not affected by increased feeding of wet corn gluten feed. Higher producing cows performed well on this feed. Wet corn gluten feed was generally acceptable when fed separately, but two animals refused sizable portions when fed the highest amount. Wet corn gluten feed can be utilized in traditional stall feeding of dairy cattle, and individual feeding should allow better management of this feed resource by limiting the amount offered to cattle that find it unpalatable. Wet corn gluten feed is also an adequate supplement for raising dairy replacements, allowing more rapid utilization of this perishable feed resource by the dairy herd.
UNCERTAINTY AND WING STRUCTURAL W-EIGHT APPROXIMATIONS

The paper explores the effect of numerical noise and uncertainties on response surface approximations for wing bending material weight for a high speed civil transport (HSCT) design, The accuracy of the response surface approximations is improved by identification and repair of outliers present in the data due to noisy structural optimization. The use of correction response surface approximations is also investigated. Error analysis compares the importance of noise and modeling error sources in approximation. The most accurate approximation is studied for sensitivity to uncertainty in problem data. The data are treated as fuzzy variables and the vertex method is applied to calculate the uncertainty in wing bending material. Substantial variation in levels of uncertainty is found over the design space.
Long-term creep of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) subjected to complex thermal histories: The effects of nonisothermal physical aging

Abstract The long-term viscoelastic behavior of polymeric materials used below the glass transition temperature (Tg) is greatly affected by physical aging. In contrast to isothermal physical aging, long-term response under nonisothermal history has received far less attention. This paper reports experimental results and analytical methods of long-term creep behavior of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) subjected to complex thermal histories in a temperature range below Tg. To characterize the effects of aging, creep tests were performed using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). Besides the long-term data, short-term creep tests in identical thermal conditions were also analyzed; these were utilized with effective time theory to predict long-term response under both isothermal and nonisothermal temperature histories. The long-term compliance after a series of temperature changes was predicted by the effective time theory using the KAHR-ate model to obtain nonisothermal physical aging shift factors. Comparison of theoretical predictions with experimental data shows good agreement for various thermal histories.
Removal of Phenols from Aqueous Solutions Using Tyrosinase Immobilized on Polymer Carriers and Inorganic Coagulants

The methods for the removal of phenolic compounds (0.5–10 mmol/dm3) from aqueous solutions and selective separation of its mixtures based on the oxidation of phenols using tyrosinase isolated from Agaricus bisporus and immobilized on polymer carriers as well as the removal of bioconversion products by inorganic coagulants were developed.
Prediction of oxidation performance of reinforced carbon-carbon material for Space Shuttle leading edges

A method was developed for predicting oxidation performance, in an earth atmospheric entry environment, of reinforced carbon-carbon material, coated for oxidation resistance. A model was developed which describes oxidation control mechanisms, and the equations defining these mechanisms were derived. These relations were used to correlate oxidation test data, and to infer pertinent rate constants. Predictions were made of material oxidation performance in a representative entry environment, and the predictions were compared with ground test data. Results indicate that the method can be successfully used for predicting material oxidation performance.
The Toxicity of Fumonisin B1, B2, and B3, Individually and in Combination, in Chicken Embryos

Three recently described and toxicologically important mycotoxins, fumonisin B1 (FB1), fumonisin B2 (FB2), and fumonisin B3 (FB3), produced by Fusarium moniliforme in various grains, have been associated with a number of diseases in both humans and animals. The toxicity of purified FB1, FB2, and FB3, individually and in combination (3:1:1 ratio), were evaluated with regard to their embryo toxicity by injection of the toxins into the air cell of chicken eggs at 72 h of incubation. Under these conditions, FB1 at doses of 0, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 microg per egg resulted in embryonic mortality of 5, 12.5, 17.5, 20.0, 52.5, 77.5, and 100%, respectively. The 50% lethal dose for FB1, when injected into the air cell of embryonating chicken eggs, was determined to be 18.73 microg per egg. A comparison of the toxicity of FB1, FB2, and FB3, individually and in combination (3:1:1 ratio), at doses of 16 microg of total fumonisin per egg, indicated that the toxicity of the fumonisins differed, FB1 being the most toxic. Microscopic examination of chicken embryos exposed to fumonisin did not reveal any gross developmental abnormalities; however, severe hemorrhages of the head, neck, and thoracic area of the dead embryos were evident.
TiO2 and K-Ar age: a covariation in the mafic rocks of the Southern Beartooth Mountains of Montana and Wyoming

Abstract K-Ar whole rock ages and TiO2 contents of 26 mafic rocks of the Southern Beartooth Mountains indicate a negative correlation between age and TiO2. This variation spans 1900 my and may indicate a diminishing contribution of basaltic material to the continent through time.
Effect of braid angle on fatigue performance of biaxial braided composites

Abstract Biaxial braided fabric is gaining popularity in primary structural application in small business jets because of its natural ability to conform to complex shapes. This research addresses the effect of braid angle on in-plane mechanical properties and fatigue performance. The carbon/epoxy braided composites were fabricated using low cost vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) with different braid angles (25°, 30° and 45°). The static tests were performed to evaluate tensile strength, modulus, and Poisson’s ratio. It is observed that as braid angle increases the tensile strength, modulus, and Poisson’s ratio decreases significantly. The load controlled tension-tension fatigue tests (R = 0.1) were conducted at 10 Hz frequency with constant amplitude. The endurance limit was defined as the fatigue load that results in a fatigue life of one million cycles. The endurance limit for 25° and 30° braided composites was 40% of UTS whereas for 45° braided composites it was 50% of UTS. However, braid angle did not significantly affect the failure mechanism under fatigue loading. It was very crucial to control the braid angle within a test specimen, as tensile strength is significantly affected by braid angle variation. The special form of biaxial braided fabric termed slit sleeves assures the constant braid angle while handling and processing. It was observed that, a Sigmoidal function could be used effectively to represent the fatigue life behavior. Braided composites exhibited substantially different fatigue failure behavior as compared to conventional angle-ply laminated composites. The major difference being that the failure is sudden. There were hardly any noticeable matrix cracks or delaminations in the first 90% of the fatigue life at all fatigue load levels. There is rapid damage accumulation in the last 10% of the fatigue life.
THE COMPLEXITY OF DECIDING CODE AND MONOID PROPERTIES FOR REGULAR SETS

In this paper, we study the complexity of deciding code and monoid properties for regular sets specified by deterministic or nondeterministic finite automata. The results are as follows. The code problem for regular sets specified by deterministic or nondeterministic finite automata is NL-complete under NC(1) reducibilities. The problems of determining whether a regular set given by a deterministic finite automaton is a monoid or a free monoid or a finitely generated monoid are all NL-complete under NC(1) reducibilities. These monoid problems become PSPACE-complete if the regular sets are specified by nondeterministic finite automata instead. The maximal code problem for deterministic finite automata is shown to be in DET and NL-hard, while a PSPACE upper bound and NP-hardness lower bound hold for the case of nondeterministic finite automata.
Some facts one simply cannot deny

Two-, three-, and four-year-old children were tested on a variation of Wason's (1965) procedure for testing the effects of plausibility on the comprehension of negative statements. It was found that negatives about an exceptional item in an array, i.e. plausible negatives, were understood before implausible negatives. Reaction time data revealed that plausible negatives were also processed more rapidly for three- and four-year-olds. An additional effect on plausibility, namely the degree of confusability between the different items in an array, was proposed, and was found to become increasingly salient with age.
Targeting of Myelin Protein Zero in a Spontaneous Autoimmune Polyneuropathy

Elimination of the costimulatory molecule B7-2 prevents autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice, but leads to the development of a spontaneous autoimmune polyneuropathy (SAP), which resembles the human disease chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). In this study, we examined the immunopathogenic mechanisms in this model, including identification of SAP Ags. We found that B7-2-deficient NOD mice exhibit changes in cytokine and chemokine gene expression in spleens over time. There was an increase in IL-17 and a decrease in IL-10 transcript levels at 4 mo (preclinical phase), whereas IFN-γ expression peaked at 8 mo (clinical phase). There was also an increase in transcript levels of Th1 cytokines, CXCL10, and RANTES in sciatic nerves of mice that developed SAP. Splenocytes from SAP mice exhibited proliferative and Th1 cytokine responses to myelin P0 (180–199), but not to other P0 peptides or P2 (53–78). Adoptive transfer of P0-reactive T cells generated from SAP mice induced neuropathy in four of six NOD.SCID mice. Data from i.v. tolerance studies indicate that myelin P0 is one of the autoantigens targeted by T cells in SAP in this model. The expression of P0 by peri-islet Schwann cells provides a potential mechanism linking islet autoimmunity and inflammatory neuropathy.
High Resolution X-Ray Spectroscopy Using Microcalorimeters

The use of microcalorimeters for high-resolution, high quantum efficiency, non-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy has been demonstrated over the past few years. During this time the energy resolution in the 1-10 keV band has improved from a value of-140 eV (FWHM), comparable to the best solid-state (Si/Li) detectors, to a value of-17 eV. We are presently working on improving the energy resolution by designing devices that have been optimized with respect to heat capacity, thermal conductance, X-ray absorbing material, thermistor geometry and thermistor implant concentration. In addition we have been working on the design of an integrated spectrometer consisting of a He4 cryostat containing an adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator, non-X-ray blocking filters and control and signal processing electronics. The essential components for such a system have been assembled at the University of Wisconsin and a similar system is being developed at Goddard. These systems will demonstrate the feasibility of this approach for space flight use, in particular for the NASA AXAF mission, and serve as research tools for further work in X-ray calorimetry. In this paper we give an overview of X-ray calorimetry, present the results of on-going X-ray tests, and discuss an approach for building an X-ray calorimeter spectrometer.
Determination of angiotensin-converting enzyme levels in cerebrospinal fluid is not a useful test for the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis.

To the Editor. Recently , we questioned the clinical utility of determining the level of angiotens in-converting enzyme (ACE) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for the diagno sis of neurosarcoidosis. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis, a multisystem granulomatous disor­ der of unknown etiology, is typically based on clinical signs and symptoms supported by radiographic findings and the presence of noncaseating epithelioid granulomas in more than one organ. Elevated serum levels of ACE, hypercalciuria, and hypercalcemia provide supportive, but not diagnostic, evidence of sarcoidosis . Approximately 5% of patients with sarcoidosis have neurologic involvement. When neurolog ic symptom s occur in the absence of other organ system abnormalities, the diagnosis of neuro­ sarco idosis is especially problematic. Measurement of CSF levels of ACE has been advocated as a means of distinguishing between neurosarcoidosis and other nonsarcoid neurologic dis­ ease ·processes. Although several scientific publications have supported the use of CSF ACE levels for the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis , many of them are letters to the editor with little or no supporting data.!" In the largest study reported in the literature, CSF ACE levels were determined in 32 patients with sarcoidosis, including 20 with a diagnosi s of neurosarcoidosis. This study reported elevated CSF ACE levels in 55% of patients with neurosarcoidosis, in 5% of patients with sarcoidosis not involving the central nervous system,' and in 13% ofpatients with other neurologi c diseases, " Despite this apparent lack ofsensitiv­ ity and specificity, the authors concluded that the CSF level of ACE seems useful in the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis. In an attempt to establish whether determination of CSF ACE levels should be a part of our laboratory test repertoire, we con­ ducted a retrospective chart review of 110 Mayo Clinic patients in whom the CSF level of ACE was measured to rule out neurosarcoidosis. Although CSF ACE levels were higher in patients with neurosarcoidosis than in patients without this diag­ nosis, considerable overlap in the CSF ACE levels between the two groups (Table I) limited the usefulnes s of the test for indi­ vidual patient s. The sensitivity and specificity of the test were 24% and 95%, respectively. In 5 of 9 patients (56%) with an elevated CSF ACE level, neurosarcoidosis was not diagnosed; 13 of 17 patients (76%) diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis had a nor­ mal CSF ACE level, and 5 of 93 patients (5 %) without neurosarcoidosis had an elevated CSF ACE level. Five of the 17 patient s in whom neurosarcoidosis was diagnosed were receiving
The effect of sildenafil on human sperm motion and function from normal and infertile men.

The aim of this report was to study the effect of sildenafil, a specific type-5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor, on human sperm motility, viability, membrane integrity and sperm penetration assay. Spermatozoa were obtained from normal donors (na 6) and infertile men (na 6) were washed using a single Percoll (80%) gradient, suspended in Ham’s F-10 medium, and incubated with various doses of sildenafil (125, 250 and 750 ng=ml); pentoxifylline (3 mM) was used as a positive control, and Ham’s F-10 was used as a reagent control. Sperm motility, grade, viability, membrane integrity (by hypo-osmotic swelling test), and motion evaluation were carried out at various time intervals. Hamster ova sperm penetration assay (SPA) was used to evaluate overall sperm function. Sildenafil did not affect sperm motility, viability or membrane integrity under these conditions as compared to our Ham’s control (P> 0.05). Incubation with pentoxifylline significantly enhanced sperm motility (P< 0.05) and viability without affecting membrane integrity (P< 0.05). Sperm incubated with sildenafil and pentoxifylline from both normal donors and infertile patients demonstrated no significant change in sperm penetration assay from respective controls. In conclusion, sildenafil, at the doses evaluated, did not significantly alter the motility, viability, membrane integrity or sperm penetration characteristics of human spermatozoa from normal donors and infertile patients. International Journal of Impotence Research (2000) 12, 229‐234.
Synthesis of Thorium(IV) and Uranium(IV) Salicylaldiminate Pseudo-Halide Complexes

To explore the coordination chemistry of salicylaldiminate ligands as a non-cyclopentadienyl ligand framework, we report the synthesis of their ThIV and UIV complexes. Deprotonation of (NC5H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)OH (1), (NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)OH (2), and (CH3SC6H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)OH (3) with sodium hydride and the subsequent addition of 0.5 equivalents of [UI4(1,4-dioxane)2] yielded [{(NC5H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2UI2] (4), [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2UI2] (5), and [{(CH3SC6H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,S)}2UI2] (6), respectively. The reaction of 3 equivalents of the sodium salt of 1 afforded [{(NC5H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}3U]I3 (7). By using [ThCl4(dme)2], [{(NC5H4)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2ThCl2] (8) and [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2ThCl2] (9) were isolated. The metathesis of both chloride ligands in 9 with NaN3 led to a rare thorium azide product, [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2Th(N3)2] (10). The reaction of 5 with AgOTf (OTf = O3SCF3) afforded [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2U(OTf)2] (11), and the subsequent reaction of 11 with 2 equivalents of NaN3 provided [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2U(N3)2] (12). The reaction of 5 with 2 equivalents of AgNO3 produced [{(NC9H6)N=C(H)(3,5-tBu2C6H2)O-κ3(O,N,N′)}2U{NO3-κ2(O,O)}2] (13). Each complex was characterized by 1H NMR and IR spectroscopy and, with the exception of 11, their structures were determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis.
Synthesis and thermal characteristics of bisimides. I

Ten structurally different bisimide resins were prepared by reacting maleic anhydride/citraconic anhydride and benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride with aromatic diamines and fused aromatic structures or heterocyclic groups. The amines included were 1,5-diaminonaphthalene, 2,5-bis(p-aminophenyl)1,3,4-oxadiazole, 3,3-bis(p-aminophenyl)phthalide, 9,9-bis(p-aminophenyl)fluorene. and 10,10-bis(p-aminophenyl)anthrone. These monomers were characterized by infrared (IR). 1H-NMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Thermal polymerization of these monomers was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. Broad exothermic peaks were observed for a temperature range of 225–380°C. Temperature of exothermic peak position was influenced by the presence of substituents at the olefinic bond, and in biscitraconimides it was 40–50°C lower than in the corresponding bismaleimides. Anaerobic char yields of cured bisimide resins ranged from 44 to 64%. Oxadiazole-containing bisimides had low thermal stability. Increase in formula weight between the imide groups did not influence the char yields in a systematic manner. Graphite cloth laminates with two of these bisimide resins were fabricated and tested for a number of physical properties. Their limiting oxygen index was 70–72%.
Landesman-Lazer resonance problems and saddle point methods

We show how saddle point techniques can be used to obtain new results for general resonance problems of the type considered by Landesman and Lazer.
Resultados iniciales de la reparación endovascular de disecciones agudas de aorta torácica tipo B con endoprótesis Gore TAG

Evaluamos el resultado tecnico y el resultado inmediato de la reparacion aortica endovascular toracica (RAEVT) para la diseccion aguda de la aortica toracica de tipo B, tratada mediante un dispositivo comercialmente disponible. A partir de un registro de cirugia vascular mantenido prospectivamente, se identificaron todos los pacientes con diseccion aguda de la aortica toracica de tipo B, sintomatica, tratados con RAEVT desde la aprobacion por parte de la Food and Drug Administration de la endoprotesis Gore (Flagstaff, AZ) TAG®. Se analizaron las indicaciones clinicas, tecnica quirurgica, complicaciones perioperatorias, los resultados de los examenes de diagnostico por imagen obtenidos durante el seguimiento y la mortalidad. Entre marzo de 2005 y noviembre de 2007, se efectuaron 127 RAEVT utilizando la endoprotesis TAG, de las que, en 15 (11,8%), la indicacion fue una diseccion aguda de la aortica toracica de tipo B. Las indicaciones de la correccion fueron la perfusion insuficiente (53%), el dolor persistente (27%), y la insuficiencia aortica primaria (33%). La viabilidad y el resultado tecnico con un despliegue proximal en el desgarro de entrada fueron del 93,3%, requiriendo siete casos (46,7%) la cobertura como minimo parcial de la arteria subclavia izquierda. Los procedimientos adyuvantes necesarios en el momento de la RAEVT incluyeron la implantacion de un stent en la arterial renal (n = 2), en la arteria iliaca (n = 3), y una correccion abierta con abordaje de la arteria (n = 2). En 12 pacientes (80%) se obtuvo la resolucion inmediata del deficit de perfusion. Las complicaciones perioperatorias mayores incluyeron paraplejia (13,3%), insuficiencia renal que requirio hemodialisis (13,3%), e ictus (6,7%). La mortalidad perioperatoria fue del 13,3%, afectando a un paciente que presento rotura e insuficiencia cardiaca profunda en el momento del ingreso. Para la diseccion aortica toracica complicada, de tipo B, la RAEVT con la utilizacion de endoprotesis disponibles comercialmente demostro un elevado resultado tecnico, resultados excelentes en la resolucion de las anomalias de la perfusion y una mortalidad y complicaciones perioperatorias aceptablemente bajas.
Call preemption in communication networks

The authors address the problem of preempting ongoing calls in a communication network in order to accommodate new calls. They investigate some problems that relate to making the best decision on which (if any) call to preempt. It is shown that versions of the problem are computationally intractable, and simple and efficient heuristics to approximate the optimal strategy are provided. The authors study the problem from the online perspective, and characterize what can be done under different circumstances. >
A short proof of the hajnal–szemerédi theorem on equitable colouring

A proper vertex colouring of a graph is equitable if the sizes of colour classes differ by at most one. We present a new shorter proof of the celebrated Hajnal–Szemeredi theorem: for every positive integer r, every graph with maximum degree at most r has an equitable colouring with r+1 colours. The proof yields a polynomial time algorithm for such colourings.
Role of the plasma membrane in signal transduction in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.

To more closely examine the role of the cell surface in transmembrane signal transduction in human neutrophils, sealed right-side-membrane vesicles free of organellar membrane components were used as models of the plasma membrane. These vesicles, incubated with a fluorescent analogue of the chemotactic peptide fMLP, bound this ligand similarly in extent and kinetics to intact neutrophils. Vesicles responded to this stimulation with a slow increase in internal [Ca++] which was inhibited by EGTA but not by verapamil; the cytosolic Ca++ transient seen in intact cells within 10 sec of stimulation was absent in vesicles. The vesicles also maintained a transmembrane potential (ψ) and were depolarized by the K+ ionophore valinomycin. However, unlike intact cells which hyperpolarized and then depolarized in response to fMLP, the vesicles demonstrated only a sustained hyperpolarization. Vesicles also differed from intact cells by not producing superoxide (O2−) in response to fMLP. Finally, fMLP caused dramatic alterations in membrane vesicle lipid metabolism: at early time points (within 5–10 sec), there was a transient production of diacylglycerol (DAG) concomitant with inositol lipid breakdown, with no apparent hydrolysis of non-inositol phospholipids. For up to 5 min after stimulation, there was no increase in the levels of phosphatidic acid or of inositol lipids. Thus, a significant portion of the signalling pathway in neutrophils is located at the cell surface or in the plasma membrane and functions independently of intracellular components. Furthermore, the plasma membrane is intimately involved in events occurring during both the early (DAG generation) and late (slow, prolonged rise in [Ca++]) phases of cellular response. In contrast, several of the responses to fMLP (the Ca++ transient, depolarization, generation of O2−, recycling of lipid metabolites) involve signalling machinery not constitutively resident on the neutrophil surface. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Rate of change load balancing in distributed and parallel systems

Dynamic Load Balancing is an important system function destined to distribute workload among available processors to improve throughput and/or execution times of parallel computer programs either uniform or non-uniform (jobs whose workload varies at run-time in unpredictable ways). Non-uniform computation and communication requirements may bog down a parallel computer if no efficient load distribution is effected. A novel distributed algorithm for load balancing is proposed and is based on local Rate of Change observations rather than on global absolute load numbers. It is a totally distributed algorithm and requires no centralized trigger and/or decision makers. The strategy is discussed and analysed by means of experimental simulation.
The Marine Boundary Layer in the Vicinity of an Ocean Front

Abstract Aircraft observations obtained during the Frontal Air–Sea Interaction Experiment (FASINEX) are used to investigate the structure of the marine atmospheric boundary layer in the vicinity of an ocean front. A quasi-stationary sea surface temperature (SST) discontinuity of 2°C was maintained across the frontal zone throughout the duration of the experiment The primary response of the atmosphere to changes in the SST was observed in the surface-related turbulence fluxes. In the case of warm air flowing over cold water, the boundary layer appears to develop an internal boundary layer (IBL) in response to the sudden change in the sea surface temperature. The organized updrafts and downdrafts within this layer collapse with entrainment–detrainment processes in these cells dominating the turbulence statistics. The IBL grows in response to the wind shear in this layer, although the surface shear stress is much smaller on the colder side of the front than on the warm. The depth of the IBL, and, in the abse...
A spectral domain approach to design spreading sequences for DS-CDMA systems in frequency selective fading channels

In this paper, we propose a frequency domain approach to design a set of spreading sequences for a DS-CDMA system in the presence of frequency selective fading. We show that the number of parameters involved in the design of optimal spreading sequences can be made smaller when they are analyzed in the frequency domain, than when they are analyzed in the time domain. Further, it is shown that for multipath channels, designing a set of spreading sequences in the frequency domain reduces to assigning a spreading sequence for each user with a spectrum whose spectral lines are located at the strongest spectral components of the user's channel's spectrum while keeping the cross correlation at a very low value for spreading sequences with overlapping spectra. We show that by designing spreading sequences in the frequency domain, the performance of some existing algorithms for the design of spreading sequences can be improved and/or the computational complexities can be reduced. We further show that the proposed idea can be extended to the design of spreading sequences where the chips of the spreading sequences are derived from a constant amplitude alphabet
Opinion: Focus on preclinical sex differences will not address women's and men's health disparities.

Last spring, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced a new policy calling for the use of both male and female materials—animals, tissues, cells, and cell lines—in preclinical research (1). Canada and the European Union have recently instituted similar policies. Advocates argue that requiring analysis of sex in preclinical research will advance scientific understanding of sex differences in human health outcomes, such as higher rates of adverse drug events (ADE) in women compared with men (2). We disagree.
Inhalation of diesel exhaust does not exacerbate cardiac hypertrophy or heart failure in two mouse models of cardiac hypertrophy

Background Strong associations have been observed between exposure to fine ambient particulate matter (PM2.5) and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In particular, exposure to traffic related PM2.5 has been associated with increases in left ventricular hypertrophy, a strong risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. As much of traffic related PM2.5 is derived from diesel exhaust (DE), we investigated the effects of chronic DE exposure on cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure in the adult mouse by exposing mice to DE combined with either of two mouse models of cardiac hypertrophy: angiotensin II infusion or pressure overload induced by transverse aortic banding.
Measuring the Quality of Life in the U.S.: Political Reflections

In Charles Dickens's novel about capitalism run amok, a teacher asks: “Now, this schoolroom is a Nation. And in this nation, there are fifty millions of money. Isn't this a prosperous nation? Girl number twenty, isn't this a prosperous nation, and an't you in a thriving state?” “Girl number twenty” (the teacher doesn't dignify the pupils with names) later confides to a friend how she got it all wrong: “I said I didn't know. I thought I couldn't know whether it was a prosperous nation or not, and whether I was in a thriving state or not, unless I knew who had got the money, and whether any of it was mine. But that had nothing to do with it. It was not in the figures at all” ( Hard Times [1854] 1997, 64).