cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Status of food irradiation in the United States

Abstract The time immediately preceding the 8th International Meeting on Radiation Processing in September 1992 has been a landmark period for food irradiation in the United States. U.S. regulatory officials, industry and media representatives, and some consumer organizations share the opinion that radiation processing may be part of the solution to microbiological contamination of products of animal origin. Several new regulations being developed by U.S. regulatory agencies and being petitioned by industry groups are outlined. Renewed interest on the part of the U.S. Army in using irradiated foods in many of their nations is reviewed. The first commercial facility designed for food irradiation and two demonstration food irradiation facilities began operations early in 1992. The progress of these facilities is discussed. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Uruguay round of GATT negotiations may significantly lower barriers that impede international agricultural trade. International agreement on appropriate control and inspection procedures would eliminate unnecessary differences and improve mutual trust thus facilitating international trade in irradiated foods. The harmonization of radiation process practices, dosimetry standards, and other issues plays a very important role in meeting the provisions of trade agreeements. It is vitally important to address these issues early in the commercialization of food irradiation throughout the trading world. Some comments in that area are provided. Much has been done already to harmonize regulations and facilitate trade; but there is still much to be done. Regardless of how these issues are resolved, they will have a significant impact on the use of radiation processing for foods and the trade of irradiated foods all over the world.
Histomorphometric analysis of postnatal glomerulogenesis in extremely preterm infants.

Until now oligonephropathy to indicate “too few nephrons” has been associated with intrauterine growth restriction and experimentally induced abnormalities of renal development. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is evidence of abnormal postnatal glomerulogenesis in extremely low birth weight preterm infants. Renal autopsy tissue was studied by computer-assisted morphometry from 56 extremely premature infants (birth weight ≤ 1000 g) and 10 fullterm infants as controls. Preterm infants were divided into two groups (short survival < 40 days vs. long survival ≥40 days). Each group was subdivided into those with renal failure (RF) and those with normal renal function. Forty-two of 56 preterm infants (75%) were adequate for gestational age. Glomerulogenesis as measured by radial glomerular counts (RGC) was markedly decreased in all preterm infants as compared to term controls and correlated significantly with gestational age (r = 0.87; P < 0.001). Active glomerulogenesis with “basophilic S-shaped bodies” was absent in longer surviving preterm and all term infants. RGC of preterm infants surviving ≥40 days with RF were significantly less than RGC of those with long survival and no RF (P < 0.001). Only this latter group demonstrated increased glomerular size as measured by mesangial tuft area and Bowman’s capsule area compared to all other groups (P < 0.001). The kidney continues to form postnatally in preterm neonates, but glomerulogenesis ceases after 40 days. Moreover, it is further inhibited by RF. Compensatory mechanisms in longer surviving preterm infants include glomerular hypertrophy and mesangial proliferation that could lead to hyperfiltration.
Active-phased-arrays and digital beamforming: Amazing breakthroughs and future trends

Many think that radar is a mature field, nothing new to happen; it has been around a long time. Nothing can be further from the truth. When the author entered the field in the 50psilas the author thought the same thing. The MIT Radiation Lab series 28 book volume set summarizing the highly classified World War II work on radar was just published and provided the definitive coverage and there was to be nothing more to learn. Since then many amazing new developments have taken place, especially with respect to active-phased-arrays and digital beam forming (DBF). Things are moving even faster now. We live in exciting times.
Active learning for budgeting concepts

Abstract This note provides an activity for bringing behavioral issues to the attention of students in a practical and interesting way that requires active student involvement in the learning process. First, students assemble a seven-piece geometric puzzle while subject to a very tight performance standard. Then, before a second trial at puzzle assembly, the students participate in setting their own standards for performance. Instructions are included for the preparation and presentation of the activity in a classroom setting.
Pulmonary secretions accelerate the metabolic rate of Escherichia coli.

Abstract A number of studies have suggested that bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) contributes to intrapulmonary antibacterial host defense, however the mechanisms underlying this interaction have not been defined. To better understand the effect of BALF on bacteria, we measured the metabolism of bacteria in the presence of human or rabbit BALF. Escherichia coli oxygen consumption significantly increases with exposure to BALF (2.9 ± 0.2 (SEM) nmol/min) compared to incubation in a saline-glucose solution alone (1.8 ± 0.1); the rate of 1-[ 14 C]-glucose utilization is comparably increased. The effect on oxygen metabolism is dose dependent. The surfactant phospholipids produce a small stimulation of oxygen metabolism, but the major effect is caused by phospholipid-poor material less than 10000 daltons in size. The activity is heat stable, pH stable, and resistant to the effects of proteases. These studies demonstrate that factor(s) within BALF increase the metabolic rate of bacteria. Further work is required to determine if this bacterial respiratory burst is a pathogenic mechanism or a reparative response to BALF induced injury.
Evaluating primary health care and nutrition programs in the context of national development

Abstract This paper illustrates an evaluation model incorporating research techniques of both primary health care and social anthropology. The case in point is the Jamaican Government's Community Health Aide Programme, which employs over 1300 auxiliary health workers to serve the low-income population of the island. The study demonstrates a cardinal principle of the anthropological approach—a grounded and holistic understanding of the social and environmental context is necessary to translate data into useful information. The study demonstrates connections between the distribution of care, the power of the cosmopolitan medical profession, and the Jamaican political patronage system. Finally, the impact of the program is assessed on child growth measures against the background of the Jamaican economy as it evolved from 1970 to 1980.
Mitochondrial topoisomerase I sites in the regulatory D-loop region of mitochondrial DNA.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is required for mitochondrial activities because it encodes key proteins for oxidative phosphorylation and the production of cellular ATP. We previously reported the existence of a specific mitochondrial topoisomerase gene, Top1mt, in all vertebrates. The corresponding polypeptide contains an N-terminal mitochondrial targeting sequence and is otherwise highly homologous to the nuclear topoisomerase I (Top1). In this study, we provide biochemical evidence of the presence of an endogenous Top1mt polypeptide in human mitochondria. Using novel antibodies against Top1mt, we detected the corresponding 70 kDa polypeptide in mitochondria but not in nuclear fractions. This polypeptide could be trapped to form covalent complexes with mtDNA when mitochondria from human cells were treated with camptothecin. Mapping of Top1mt sites in the regulatory D-loop region of mtDNA in mitochondria revealed the presence of an asymmetric cluster of Top1mt sites confined to a 150 bp segment downstream fro...
Evolution of heavy-fermion behavior from mixed-valence state in the series Ce(Pt1-xNix)Si.

We present the room-temperature lattice parameters, the static magnetic susceptibility, and the magnetic resistivity between 2.4 and 300 K for a series of ten polycrystalline $\mathrm{Ce}({\mathrm{Pt}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Ni}}_{x})\mathrm{Si}$ samples with $x=0.0 \mathrm{to} 1.0$. An abrupt change in the lattice constant as well as in ${T}_{max}({\ensuremath{\chi}}_{m})$ and ${T}_{max}({\ensuremath{\rho}}_{m})$ occurs around $x=0.5$. This is evidence for the transition from heavy-fermion behavior to a mixed-valence state. The magnetic-susceptibility and magnetic-resistivity data support the interpretation of resistivity maximum in terms of a spin-scattering mechanism in the mixed-valence regime, while the Kondo scattering mechanism is expected to be valid at high temperature ($Tg{T}_{\mathrm{SF}}$) in the Kondo-lattice regime. From the present study, the heavy-fermion material is believed to be a Kondo-lattice compound with a relatively strong Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction.
Surface Characterization Of Grazing-Incidence Optics In The Extreme Ultraviolet And X-Ray Regions

Roughness and waviness on mirrors for use in grazing-incidence optical systems intended for the extreme ultraviolet and x-ray regions affect both the focusing properties of the mirrors and the scattered light they produce. The most important surface spatial wave-lengths of the roughness are in the 1- to 100-μm range and are easily measurable using conventional optical and mechanical techniques. Descriptions of some of these techniques will be given along with examples of measurements made on very smooth polished optical surfaces that are comparable to those used as grazing-incidence optics.
Dissociation of Systemic and Central Effects of Neurotensin on the Secretion of Growth Hormone, Prolactin, and Thyrotropin*

Neurotensin (NT), a tridecapeptide originally isolated from the hypothalamus, exhibits a wide variety of biological effects which depend on the site of peptide administration. The systemic and central effects of NT on GH, PRL, and TSH secretion were compared in urethane anesthetized, estrogen-primed male rats.ntravenous NT (30 /xg/kg or 7.5–9.0 /xg/rat) produced a marked rise in plasma GH and PRL, which peaked at 5 rnin, and in plasma TSH, which peaked at 15 min. In contrast, intraventricular (ivt) NT (2 and 5 /ig) significantly decreased plasma levels of all three hormones. The PRL and TSH rises after systemic TRH (0.4 /ig/ kg) were inhibited by the ivt injection of NT (0.2 and 2.0 jug). The GH rise after chlorpromazine (200 jug/kg, iv) was completely suppressed by NT (0.5 and 0.2 jug, ivt), whereas that of PRL was partially suppressed. To evaluate the possible mediation of NT effects by substance P, somatostatin, and histamine, the pituitary hormon responses to these compounds were measured. The injecti...
Despite Faculty Skepticism: Lessons from a Graduate-Level Seminar in a Hybrid Course Environment

Despite the fact that online education continues to grow, the vast majority of faculty remain skeptical that online courses can yield the same student learning outcomes as traditional face-to-face courses. In an effort to determine if online graduate courses can be effective, in this study we explore the extent to which qualities commonly found in graduate-level seminars can be replicated in hybrid graduate-level courses. A course for students in a higher education graduate program titled “The American Community College” serves as the study case. The course was developed as a hybrid with synchronous, asynchronous, and in-person elements intended to foster highly interactive exchanges of information, deep analysis of subject matter, and advanced means of communicating one's ideas; all elements of a successful graduate-level course. Web technologies including wikis, blogs, and podcasting provided creative and varied pedagogical tools, which could be fully realized only when students were immersed in the onl...
The Role of Emotion Theory and Research in Child Therapy Development

A burgeoning of research on emotion has identified the importance of emotionally competent functioning to children's psychosocial adaptation. As a consequence of this basic research, we argue that prevention and treatment programs for youth would benefit from direct consideration of the role of emotion when designing developmentally appropriate programs. The rationale for including a greater focus on emotion in youth prevention and treatment programs is drawn from the affective neuroscience and clinical psychology literatures. Preliminary data from prevention and treatment programs that have a strong emotion focus are promising. Future work needs to examine how emotion-related processes are related to psychopathology in youth, develop developmentally sensitive programs that are influenced by basic research on emotions, evaluate the relative effectiveness of prevention and treatment programs, and assess the potential long-term impact of emotion-focused and emotion-informed programs.
Hyperbilirubinemia in Appendicitis: A New Predictor of Perforation

This study examines the relationship between hyperbilirubinemia and appendicitis. It was hypothesized that an association exists between the presence of appendiceal perforation and hyperbilirubinemia. Patients with liver function tests on admission and pathologically confirmed appendicitis were included in the study. Age, duration of symptoms, temperature, white blood cell counts, systemic inflammatory response score, and bilirubin levels were independent variables in a logistic regression analysis assessing factors predicting the presence or absence of appendiceal gangrene/perforation. Elevated total bilirubin levels (>1 mg/dl) were found in 59 (38%) of 157 patients. Patients with gangrene/perforation were significantly (p = 0.004) more likely to have hyperbilirubinemia than those with acute suppurative appendicitis. No statistical differences were observed for any of the other variables. On logistic regression the only significant relationship between the presence or absence of appendiceal gangrene and perforation was the presence of hyperbilirubinemia (p = 0.031, 95% confidence interval 1.11–7.6). The odds of appendiceal perforation are three times higher (odds ratio 2.96) for patients with hyperbilirubinemia compared to those with normal bilirubin levels. Hyperbilirubinemia is frequently associated with appendicitis. Elevated bilirubin levels have a predictive potential for the diagnosis of appendiceal perforation.
Vascular influences on the dynamic stability of the choledochoduodenal junction.

Alterations of arterial, hepatic portal, and central venous pressures are shown to be associated with changes in the same direction of the opening pressures of the canine choledochoduodenal junction. Increases in opening pressures subsequent to increases in vascular pressures could be abolished by the intraductal administration of norepinephrine. Experiments employing the systematic intraductal administration of various pharmacological agents produced data that are interpreted to indicate that alterations in ductal opening pressures are preponderantly dependent in the dog upon local vascular effects.
Biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of [11C]DASB in baboons.

Abstract Objective The serotonin transporter has been implicated in a variety of conditions including mood disorders and suicidal behavior. In vivo human brain studies with positron emission tomography and the serotonin transporter antagonist [ 11 C]DASB ([ 11 C]-3-amino-4-(2-dimethylaminomethyl-phenylsulfanyl)-benzonitrile) are ongoing in several laboratories with the maximum administered activity based on dosimetry collected in rodents. We report on the biodistribution and dosimetry of [ 11 C]DASB in the baboon as this species may be a more reliable surrogate for human dosimetry. Methods Four baboon studies (two studies in each of two baboons) were acquired in an ECAT ACCEL camera after the bolus injection of 183±5 MBq/2.3±1.0 nmol of [ 11 C]DASB. For each study, six whole-body emission scans were collected in 3D mode over 6/7 bed positions for 2 h. Regions of interest were drawn on brain, lungs, liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys, small intestine and bladder. Since no fluid was removed from the animal, total body radioactivity was calculated using the injected dose calibrated to the ACCEL image units. Results Uptake was greatest in lungs, followed by the urinary bladder, gallbladder, brain and other organs. The ligand was eliminated via the hepato-billiary and renal systems. The largest absorbed dose was found in the lungs (3.6×10 −2 mSv/MBq). The absorbed radiation doses in lungs and gallbladder were four and nine times larger than that previously estimated from rat studies. Conclusion Based on our baboon biodistribution and dose estimates, the lungs are the critical organs for administration of [ 11 C]DASB. In the United States, the absorbed dose to the lungs would limit [ 11 C]DASB administered with the approval of a Radioactive Drug Research Committee to 1400 MBq (37 mCi) in the adult male and 1100 MBq (30 mCi) in the adult female.
Taxonomy of Gundlachia (Compositae: Astereae)

Gundlachia, a genus of shrubs occurring in the Caribbean islands, is treated as comprising two species, one of which has six varieties. Five new combinations are made: Gundlachia corymbosa var. apiculata (Britton & S. F. Blake) M. A. Lane, G. corymbosa var. compacta (Urb. & Ekman) M. A. Lane, G. corymbosa var. cubana (Britton & S. F. Blake) M. A. Lane, G. corymbosa var. foliosa (Britton & S. F. Blake) M. A. Lane, and G. corymbosa var. ocoana (Urb. & Ekman) M. A. Lane. Gundlachia is probably most closely related to Gymnosperma.
Soot particle inception kinetics in a premixed ethylene flame

Abstract In this paper we describe our measurements of the soot particle inception (“nucleation”) rate in an atmospheric pressure premixed flat flame. After demonstrating that interfering optical signals from molecules in the flame could be eliminated or accounted for, we were able to use laser light scattering and extinction to detect the soot particles. An aerosol dynamics model was developed to allow interpretation of the optical data, and an efficient technique was found to solve the differential equations. From their solutions we determined that the soot particle inception rate in our flame peaked near 10 16 cm −3 s −1 . Net surface growth during the particle inception process was close to zero, possibly because the soot was also being oxidized. The particle inception process lasted for about 2.5 ms. We carried out a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the effects of uncertainty in the properties of incipient particles.
Transition to Preschool Programs for Young Children With Disabilities

The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing easier transitions and placements of young children with disabilities into Part B preschool special education programs. The authors exam...
Eosinophilic fasciitis in children

A propos d'un cas chez un enfant noir de 4 ans et revue des 17 cas de la litterature chez des enfants. Comparaison de la fasciite a eosinophiles de l'enfant a celle de l'adulte: signes cliniques, biologiques et anatomopathologiques, pronostic. Interet de la prednisone et de la D-penicillamine. Importance d'une reeducation precoce dans le traitement preventif et curatif des contractures
Resonator fiber optic gyro employing a polarization-rotating resonator

A novel fiber optic resonator employing a 90 degree polarization rotation was developed to reduce polarization related bias errors of the resonator fiber optic gyro. For the first time, we have fabricated and tested a nearly all guided-wave gyro having a polarization-rotating fiber resonator. Bias stability better than 0.4 deg/hr, random walk of 0.1 deg/root-hr, and day to day absolute bias stability of 10 deg/hr are reported. The major error mechanism of bias instability and other error sources are discussed.
Image-Guided Deep Brain Stimulation

Advances in deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery have been achieved through the use of stereotactic targeting of key tracks in patients undergoing awake surgery. Intraoperative detection of track location has been useful in interpreting physiologic results, has limited the number of brain penetrations, and has decreased the incidence of reoperations. Alternatively, some centers are gaining experience with placement of the lead under general anesthesia using a purely anatomic approach, for which both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have proved useful. In this article, the use of image guidance with both the anatomic and physiologic approaches is described.
Squeezing light out of crystals: Triboluminescence

Triboluminescence is the light emitted when mechanical energy is applied to a crystal. Many common substances such as sugar and copper sulfate are triboluminescent. The origin of the light and the mechanical, chemical, and crystallographic requirements of the phenomenon are described in this paper.
The synthesis of glucose and ammonia by kidney tubules isolated from suckling and early-weaned lambs.

Abstract 1. 1. Glucose and ammonia production were examined in kidney tubules isolated from suckling and early-weaned lambs, on days 10–30 after birth, with abrupt weaning occurring at day 14. 2. 2. There were no differences in the rates of glucose or ammonia production for a given substrate by tubules isolated from any of the lambs, regardless of age or stage of weaning. 3. 3. The preferred substrates for gluconeogenesis were glycerol = lactate >propionate = pyruvate = fructose = proline >alanine >glutamate >glutamine >aspartate >glycine >serine, and for ammoniagenesis were glutamine ⪢ alanine >aspartate >serine >glycine = glutamate = proline.
Low-Valent Tungsten Aryloxide Compounds with Pyridine Ancillary Ligation: Intramolecular Reduction of Heterocyclic and Aromatic Rings Including Formation of an η5-Cyclohexadienyl Group

The sodium amalgam reduction (2 Na per W) of hydrocarbon solutions of [W(OC6HPh4-2,3,5,6)2Cl4] in the presence of pyridine or 4-tert-butylpyridine leads to the W(IV) compounds [W(OC6HPh4-2,3,5,6)2Cl2(py)2] (1) and [W(OC6HPh4-2,3,5,6)2Cl2(4-tert-butylpyridine)2] (2) in good yields. The ambient-temperature 1H NMR spectra of both 1 and 2 were found to be sharp and to exhibit extensive contact shifts due to the paramagnetic tungsten center. The addition of 2,2‘-bipyridine to an emerald green solution of [W(OC6HPh3-η6-C6H5)(OC6HPh4-2,3,5,6)(PEt3)] produced [W(OC6HPh4-2,3,5,6)2(bipy)2] (3), containing two bipy rings and two terminal aryloxide ligands coordinated mutually cis. The W−N(bipy) distances of 2.092(2), 2.093(2), 2.096(2), and 2.115(2) A in 3 are among the shortest so far reported for bipy ligands bound to either molybdenum or tungsten. The solid state and solution data for 3 indicate that reduction of both bipy ligands has occurred, but whether this involves four-electron reduction to yield d0-W(VI) i...
The Photovoltage-Determining Mechanism in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

The authors attempt to distinguish between two competing models of the photovoltage-determining mechanism in dye-sensitized solar cells. One model does not consider the equilibrium potential difference at the TiO{sub 2}/substrate interface to be a significant factor in determining the photovoltage; the other claims that this potential difference sets the upper limit to the achievable photovoltage. The authors deposit dye-sensitized TiO{sub 2} films on four different substrates that have vacuum work functions spanning a 1.4 eV range and measure the photovoltage obtained from these films in three different redox electrolyte solutions. No significant differences in photovoltage are obtained on the different substrates, not even on Pt where the interfacial potential should oppose electron transfer. The authors suggest that the interfacial potential barrier may be smaller than expected and/or too thin to have a significant influence on cell performance. The authors conclude that the photovoltage is determined by photoinduced chemical potential gradients, not by equilibrium electric fields.
Effect of age on blood vessels and neurovascular appositions in the rat dentate fascia

Rats aged 3, 9, 24 and 30 months were used in this study. We show increased basal lamina thickening and increased mitochondrial presence in walls of capillaries and not in walls of large vessel populations with age. This suggests that age selectively affects capillary structure. Ultrastructural differences between capillaries and two types of large vessels are reported and discussed in terms of their probable functional significance. In particular it was noted that there are more axon terminals, axons and dendrites adjacent to capillaries than to large vessels and that this was unaffected by increasing age. It is not clear whether the proximity of neuronal processes to a vessel wall serves a function, however, the larger number adjacent to capillaries than to large vessels indicates a more significant role for them in capillary rather than in large vessel function. Since increasing age did not alter the number of neuronal processes adjacent to vessels, age-related compromises in vessel function may be unrelated to neuronal regulation. The age-related changes are discussed as possible vascular markers for the aging brain.
Rapid Solubility Determination Using Vapor-Phase Osmometry.

Because of the need for resource-sparing assays of the solubility of new drug candidates, we sought to develop and validate a rapid method for determining the solubility of nonvolatile pharmaceutical solids in water. Vapor-phase osmometry was used to determine the concentration of drugs in saturated solutions prepared by a rapid ultrasound-mediated dissolution protocol. The osmolality of saturated solutions as measured by the vapor-phase osmometer is an excellent predictor of the solubility of pharmaceutical solids in water. Each osmolality measurement requires less than 10 ul of saturated solution and takes less than 2 min to complete. For small-molecule drugs with solubilities greater than 10 g/kg, osmometry may prove to be a rapid and accurate method for determining the water solubilities of drugs.
Diagnosis and Management of Postoperative Ileal Pouch Disorders

Although restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the surgical treatment of choice for patients with refractory ulcerative colitis (UC) or UC with dysplasia, surgical, inflammatory, and noninflammatory adverse sequelae are common. Pouchitis, representing a spectrum of disease phenotypes, is the most common long-term complication of IPAA. De novo Crohn disease (CD) of the pouch can occur in patients with a preoperative diagnosis of UC. Differential diagnosis between fibrostenotic or fistulizing CD and surgery-associated strictures, sinuses, and fistulas often requires a combined assessment of symptom, endoscopy, histology, radiography, and examination under anesthesia. There is a role for endoscopic therapy for stricturing complications of IPAA. Chronic antibiotic-refractory pouchitis, refractory cuffitis, as well as fibrostenotic or fistulizing CD of the pouch are the leading late-onset causes for pouch failure.
Optimizing the management of cutaneous melanoma in the elderly.

Background The incidence of melanoma in patients aged ≥65 years is increasing. Melanoma characteristics appear to be different in the elderly, and outcomes worse. We undertook this study to characterize our experience with melanoma in the elderly and identify factors associated with outcome. Methods We studied 244 elderly consecutive melanoma patients with clinically localized disease. Mean follow-up was 73 ± 3.7 months. Results One-hundred thirty-two patients (54%) were male. The most common site was extremity (44%), histology superficial spreading (51%), mean thickness 1.91 mm, 16% ulcerated. T stage included 36% T1, 14% T2, 14% T3, 9% T4 tumors. Undertreatment of the primary tumor occurred in 22%, overtreatment in 6%, and inadequate lymph node staging/treatment in 22%. 23% of patients recurred, 21% died of unrelated causes, and 12% died of melanoma. Sex, tumor thickness, mitotic index, ulceration, and lymph node status were significant factors affecting disease-free survival, while tumor thickness, mitotic index, and lymph node status were significant predictors of overall survival. Conclusion The features of melanoma in elderly patients were different from younger patients, but prognostic factors were similar. Most patients received appropriate treatment and survived >5 years. Strategies to improve early detection to facilitate optimal treatment of melanoma in the elderly are warranted.
SEMI-ACTIVE CONTROL FOR VIBRATION SUPPRESSION IN A SYSTEM SUBJECTED TO UNKNOWN DISTURBANCES

With the advent of materials, such as electrorheological fluids, whose material properties can be altered rapidly by means of external stimuli, employing such materials as actuators for the controlled attenuation of undesirable vibrations is now possible. Such control schemes are dubbed semi-active in that they attenuate vibrations whether applied actively or passively. We investigate various such control schemes, allowing for both separate and joint control of the stiffness and damping characteristics of the material. Simulation results are given for the case of an electrorheological fluid.
Comparison between PAS and GMS stains for the diagnosis of onychomycosis

Background: Onychomycosis is the most common nail disease in adults. Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stain has been considered the most sensitive method for diagnosis. By comparing originally stained PAS slides (i.e. without repeating PAS) with newly stained Grocott methenamine-silver (GMS) slide, D’Hue et al. concluded that GMS is superior to PAS. We conducted a similar study with the addition of repeating PAS stain and compared the newly stained PAS and GMS slides in tandem. Methods: We performed both PAS and GMS stains on 30 clinically suspected onychomycosis cases. The presence or absence of fungal organisms was evaluated. The results were also compared with the original PAS stain. Results: Twenty-two cases were positive with PAS, staining three cases more than GMS, which stained only 19 cases. The difference between the two stains is statistically insignificant. Repetition of GMS stain on these three cases (cutting in a deeper level in the paraffin block) resulted in positive results. Four out of 30 cases were negative with original PAS stain, but stained positive both with new PAS and GMS. Conclusions: PAS and GMS stains are quantitatively similar. Sensitivity of both methods can be increased by preparing two slides from different levels in the paraffin block. Reza Kermanshahi T, Rhatigan R. Comparison between PAS and GMS stains for the diagnosis of onychomycosis.
A cobalt complex immobilized to chitosan

Abstract Polymeric ligand was prepared by attaching salicylaldehyde to the amine function of the polysaccharide chitosan through a Schiff-base reaction. The Schiff-base bond was reduced with sodium borohydride. The isolated polymeric ligand was characterized by physical and chemical methods and was shown to contain two chitosan hexose rings for each salicylaldehyde moiety. The polymeric ligand was used to prepare a cobalt complex which was used as an oxidation catalyst in aqueous solution to catalyze the oxidation of catechol to n-quinone using dissolved oxygen as the oxidant.
Event-related potentials and alpha synchronization in preadolescent boys at risk for psychoactive substance use.

Numerous studies have evaluated event-related potentials (ERPs) as biological indicators of the liability for alcoholism. This study extends that approach by investigating ERPs in boys at risk for other substance use disorders. Prepubertal (10–12 years) sons of fathers diagnosed with psychoactive substance dependence ( n = 28) were compared to matched sons of nonaffected fathers ( n = 26) on an auditory ERP oddball task. Multivariate analyses of variance applied to peak amplitude and latency measures indicated small to moderate between-groups differences at midline or parietal sites: N2 and P3 amplitude; P2, N2, P3, and Nc latency. This replicated P3 amplitude findings in alcoholism-risk studies, though the effect size was moderate. Analysis of event-related alpha power indicated significantly longer latency of alpha synchronization and oscillations of desynchronization in boys at risk. The alpha power findings were statistically the more robust of the measures applied. The role of neurocognitive factors in determining liability for substance use disorders is discussed.
Manifestations of a pupal diapause in two species of flies, Sarcophaga argyrostoma and S. bullata☆

Sarcophaga argyrostoma shows under certain conditions a state of arrested development, recognized as a diapause, in the pupa shortly after the head has become evaginated and before the antennae of the adult fly become visible, i.e. about 40 hr after formation of the puparium. Diapause occurs in: (1) Cultures raised and maintained at 13·5°C and (2) cultures raised at 18°C under conditions of short days—8 hr light/16 hr darkness (LD 8 : 16). Diapause also arises when larvae are raised at higher temperatures and the prepupae or young pupae transferred to 13·5°C. Diapause does not ensue from transference from 23 to 18°C, LD 8 : 16. In both cases of diapause development starts spontaneously after 6 to 12 months. Upon transference to higher temperatures development in the 13·5°C diapause starts almost immediately, whereas in the 18°C, LD 8 : 16 diapause it starts only after a delay the length of which depends on the temperatures employed. The 18°C, LD 8 : 16 diapause is also shortened by chilling at 6°C for 1 to 2 months. The diapause in S. bullata is manifested in exactly the same morphological state as in S. argyrostoma, but differs from it in that it has so far not been induced by short days, and in the 13·5°C diapause is terminated spontaneously after shorter periods. In certain instances arrested development occurred in the state when the antennae are just visible.
Propranolol inhibits rat brain monoamine oxidase

Abstract Propranolol and its d-isomer inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) from the brain of the rat. The I 50 for each was 260 μM, compared to a value of 23 μM for pargyline. The I 50 for the local anesthetic procaine was 22 μM in this system. Practolol, a β-blocker that is not a local anesthetic, had only weak activity at 1 mM. Levels of serotonin (5-HT) were increased in the cerebral cortex of rats by treatment with d,1-propranolol (12.5–50 mg/kg), whereas levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were decreased. Levels of 5-HT were also increased by treatment with similar doses of d-propranolol, but not by treatment with practolol. It was concluded that propranolol inhibits MAO and the metabolism of 5-HT by a mechanism unrelated to blockade of β-adrenergic receptors and that this activity may be related to the local anesthetic properties of this drug.
Export-led growth and the Japanese economy: evidence from VAR and directed acyclic graphs

This paper explores the causal relationship between real exports and GDP growth in Japan using two recently developed causal modelling approaches. Using Japanese time series, the paper employed the augmented VAR methodology developed by Toda and Yamamoto (1995) to test for Granger non-causality. Then, a more recently developed technique of directed acyclic graphs (DAG) was also used in providing over-identifying restrictions on the innovations from a vector autoregression (VAR) model. In contrast to prior analyses, the application of DAG techniques allows for the examination of both contemporaneous and dynamic causal structure of the exports-productivity nexus. The empirical results reveal that the causal path between exports and GDP growth in Japan is bi-directional. Furthermore, other variables such as capital and foreign output are also significant determinants of productivity growth in Japan.
A simplified thermodynamic model for waste heat utilization from a containerized data center experimental platform

Environmentally Opportunistic Computing is an approach to use the waste heat from containerized data center nodes to offset the heating needs of adjacent buildings or facilities. The computational load is then distributed across a number of data center nodes based on where the waste heat is required. In this work, a prototype data center node that houses three racks of servers and is ducted to a local greenhouse is examined. Using a free cooling approach, ambient air is pulled into the container (cold aisle) to cool the servers and the warm air on the backside of the servers (hot aisle) is directly expelled into the greenhouse as space heat to offset heating costs during the fall, winter, and spring months, while during hotter summer months, the heat is directly expelled to ambient. Experimental measurements demonstrate the functionality of the prototype, and a first order thermodynamic model of the containerized data center is developed to predict the temperature conditions in both the hot aisle and cold aisle under various operating conditions. The solution to the model has been calibrated and validated against temperature measurements taken in the containerized data center, and evaluation of the model reveals key parameters that impact performance and design.
Elevated Corticosterone Associated with Food Deprivation Upregulates Expression in Rat Skeletal Muscle of the mTORC1 Repressor, REDD1

Food deprivation induces a repression of protein synthesis in skeletal muscle in part due to reduced signaling through the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Previous studies have identified upregulated expression of the protein Regulated in DNA Damage and Development (REDD1) as an important mechanism in the regulation of mTORC1 activity in response to a variety of stresses. Our goal in this investigation was to determine whether modulation of REDD1 expression occurs in response to food deprivation and refeeding, and, if it does, to ascertain if changes in REDD1 expression correlate with altered mTORC1 signaling. As expected, mTORC1 signaling was repressed after 18 h of food deprivation compared with freely-fed control rats and quickly recovered after refeeding for 45 min. Food deprivation caused a dramatic rise in REDD1 mRNA and protein expression; refeeding resulted in a reduction to baseline. Food deprivation is characterized by low-serum insulin and elevated glucocorticoid concentrations. Therefore, initially, alloxan-induced type I diabetes was used to minimize the food deprivation- and refeeding-induced changes in insulin. Although diabetic rats exhibited upregulated REDD1 expression compared with nondiabetic controls, there was no direct correlation between REDD1 mRNA expression and serum insulin levels, and insulin treatment of diabetic rats did not affect REDD1 expression. In contrast, serum corticosterone levels correlated directly with REDD1 mRNA expression (r = 0.68; P = 0.01). Moreover, inhibiting corticosterone-mediated signaling via administration of the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486 blocked both the food deprivation- and diabetes-induced increase in REDD1 mRNA expression. Overall, the results demonstrate that changes in REDD1 expression likely contribute to the regulation of mTORC1 signaling during food deprivation and refeeding.
Leukoencephalomalacia in a White-tailed Deer from North Carolina

Leukoencephalomalacia similar to equine leukoencephalomalacia occurred in a white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from North Carolina. The deer was recumbent and stuporous when presented for examination. It was believed that the disease resulted from ingestion of moldy field corn, infected with Fusarium moniliforme.
Cyclization of the Grignard reagent from 5-chloro-3-methyl-1-hexene; a reversible organomagnesium rearrangement

Abstract The Grignard reagent from 5-chloro-3-methyl-1-hexene cyclized reversibly to form an equilibrium mixture with two stereoisomers of the 2,4-dimethylcyclobutylmethyl-Grignard reagent. Equilibrium and rate constants for the opposing reactions have been evaluated at 80–100 and 100–120°C, respectively. Over this range, the equilibrium mixture favors the cyclic reagent by a ratio of about 3 1 . Comparison with results for related compounds indicates that methyl substitution influences the equilibrium both by destabilization of the organomagnesium function and by stabilization of the strained ring. Additional comparisons of rate and equilibrium constants are discussed.
Methylphenidate effects on global and complex measures of EEG

Abstract Methylphenidate (MPH) effects on global and complex measures of electroencephalography were examined in boys with attention-deficit–hyperactivity disorder between the ages of 9 and 11 years. Electroencephalogram (EEG) data were collected separately from the administration of a continuous performance task and were evaluated for changes in overall frequency, coherence, phase, and asymmetry and against a referential database. MPH did not produce a clear change in EEG frequency measures compared with the task condition, although it did induce regional changes in the EEG and produced an improvement in task performance. In comparison against the referential database, MPH appeared to lessen the impact of abnormalities in EEG coherence, EEG phase, and EEG asymmetry on performance measures.
Angstrom sensitivity polarization multiplexed heterodyne acousto-optic interferometric sensor

To the best of our knowledge, for the first time is proposed and demonstrated an angstrom level optical path length (OPL) detection sensitivity polarization multiplexed heterodyne acousto-optic interferometric sensor. In particular, it is shown how polarization multiplexing can be combined with a single acousto-optic deflector (AOD) or Bragg cell in a self-aligning optical geometry to realize a super phase stability vibration and environment tolerant optical interferometric sensor. A proof-of-concept experiment measures the voltage dependent phase change due to the refractive index change of a liquid crystal sensor chip.
Quality of coverage: Conformity measures for stereotactic radiosurgery

In radiosurgery, conformity indices are often used to compare competing plans, evaluate treatment techniques, and assess clinical complications. Several different indices have been reported to measure the conformity of the prescription isodose to the target volume. The PITV recommended in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) radiosurgery guidelines, defined as the ratio of the prescription isodose volume (PI) over the target volume (TV), is probably the most frequently quoted. However, these currently used conformity indices depend on target size and shape complexity. The objectives of this study are to systematically investigate the influence of target size and shape complexity on existing conformity indices, and to propose a different conformity index-the conformity distance index (CDI). The CDI is defined as the average distance between the target and the prescription isodose line. This study examines five case groups with volumes of 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 10.0, and 30.0 cm(3). Each case group includes four simulated shapes: a sphere, a moderate ellipsoid, an extreme ellipsoid, and a concave "C" shape. Prescription dose coverages are generated for three simplified clinical scenarios, i.e., the PI completely covers the TV with 1 and 2 mm margins, and the PI over-covers one half of the TV with a 1 mm margin and under-covers the other half with a 1 mm margin. Existing conformity indices and the CDI are calculated for these five case groups as well as seven clinical cases. When these values are compared, the RTOG PITV conformity index and other similar conformity measures have much higher values than the CDI for smaller and more complex shapes. With the same quality of prescription dose coverage, the CDI yields a consistent conformity measure. For the seven clinical cases, we also find that the same PITV values can be associated with very different conformity qualities while the CDI predicts the conformity quality accurately. In summary, the proposed CDI provides more consistent and accurate conformity measurements for all target sizes and shapes studied, and therefore will be a more useful conformity index for irregularly shaped targets.
Acoustic imaging of objects buried in soil

In this study, we demonstrate an acoustic system for high-resolution imaging of objects buried in soil. Our goal is to image cultural artifacts in order to assess in a rapid manner the historical significance of a potential construction site. We describe the imaging system and present preliminary images produced from data collected from a soil phantom. A mathematical model and associated computer software are developed in order to simulate the signals acquired by the system. We have built the imaging system, which incorporates a single element source transducer and a receiver array. The source and receiver array are moved together along a linear path to collect data. Using this system, we have obtained B-mode images of several targets by using delay-and-sum beamforming, and we have also applied synthetic aperture theory to this problem.
Low voltage NexFET with record low figure of merit

A novel planar gate double-diffused MOS (DMOS) transistor is proposed for low voltage ( ON, sp ·Q gd, sp ) of the power MOSFET is 2.3 mΩ·nC, which is record low in the published literature.
The role of SORBITOL DEHYDROGENASE in Arabidopsis thaliana

SORBITOL DEHYDROGENASE (SDH, EC 1.1.1.14) catalyses the interconversion of polyols and ketoses (e.g. sorbitol ⟷ fructose). Using two independent Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. sdh knockout mutants, we show that SDH (At5g51970) plays a primary role in sorbitol metabolism as well as an unexpected role in ribitol metabolism. Sorbitol content increased in both wild-type (WT) and mutant plant leaves during drought stress, but mutants showed a dramatically different phenotype, dying even if rewatered. The lack of functional SDH in mutant plants was accompanied by accumulation of foliar sorbitol and at least 10-fold more ribitol, neither of which decreased in mutant plants after rewatering. In addition, mutant plants were uniquely sensitive to ribitol in a concentration-dependent manner, which either prevented them from completing seed germination or inhibited seedling development, effects not observed with other polyols or with ribitol-treated WT plants. Ribitol catabolism may occur solely through SDH in A. thaliana, though at only 30% the rate of that for sorbitol. The results indicate a role for SDH in metabolism of sorbitol to fructose and in ribitol conversion to ribulose in A. thaliana during recovery from drought stress.
The binding of AP-1 clathrin adaptor particles to Golgi membranes requires ADP-ribosylation factor, a small GTP-binding protein

The small GTP-binding protein, ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF), has previously been shown to mediate the binding to Golgi membranes of the coatomer of non-cathrin-coated (COP-coated) vesicles. We now report that ARF is also required for the binding of the AP-1 adaptor protein of clathrin-coated vesicles to Golgi membranes. The binding of coat proteins from both clathrin- and COP-coated vesicles requires an additional Golgi membrane-associated factor. These results suggest that a mechanistic similarity underlies diverse types of vesicle coats.
Temporal trends in sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted disease history among 18- to 39-year-old Seattle, Washington, residents: results of random digit-dial surveys.

Objectives:The objectives of this study were to describe sexual behaviors of Seattle residents in 2003–2004 and report changes since 1995.Methods:We conducted a random digit-dial (RDD) survey among 18- to 39-year-old men and women in 2003–2004. We compared the results with the results of a 1995 RDD