cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conservation among vertebrate immunoglobulin chains detected by antibodies to a synthetic joining segment peptide.

Abstract We used affinity purified antibodies produced against a synthetic peptide sequence corresponding to the entire J β of a human T cell receptor gene to screen sera of man, mouse and other vertebrates to determine the presence of cross-reactive molecules. Little evidence for free α β heterodimers was found, but the antibody reacted with light chains of many vertebrate species, including characterized myeloma proteins of man and mouse. Some vertebrate orders, notably Aves, lacked polypeptide chains cross-reactive with J β , but detectable determinants occurred in primitive vertebrates such as the galapagos shark ( Carcharhinus galapagensis ). In addition to the strong cross-reaction with purified light chains, human heavy chains reacted weakly with the antibody. The cross-reaction correlated with the sequence of the denatured immunoglobulins and was inhibitable with free peptide. These results establish the similarity of T cell receptor β chains to immunoglobulin chains and support the conclusion that J region sequences were conserved, not only within mammalian immunoglobulins and T cell receptors, but in vertebrate evolution.
FAMILIES, SOCIAL LIFE, AND WELL-BEING AT OLDER AGES*

As people age, many aspects of their lives tend to change, including the constellation of people with whom they are connected, their social context, their families, and their health--changes that are often interrelated. Wave I of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) has yielded rich information on intimate ties, especially dyads and families, and on social connections generally. Combined with extensive biological and other health measures, NSHAP enables researchers to address key questions on health and aging. We begin with recent findings on intimate dyads, then move to social participation, and finally to elder mistreatment. Among dyads, we find that whereas sexual activity drops sharply with age for both women and men, gender differences in partner loss as well as psychosocial and normative pressures constrain women's sex more than men's. However, surviving partnerships tend to be emotionally and physically satisfying and are marked by relatively frequent sex. In contrast to sex, nonsexual intimacy is highly prevalent at older ages, especially among women. Older adults are also socially resilient--adapting to the loss of social ties by increasing involvement with community and kin networks. Despite these social assets, older adults remain vulnerable to mistreatment. Overall, these findings yield a mixed picture of gender-differentiated vulnerabilities balanced by proactive adaptation and maintenance of social and dyadic assets.
The isolation of Euglena gracilis chloroplasts uncontaminated by nuclear DNA

Abstract A method is described for the rapid isolation of Euglena chloroplasts and chloroplast DNA free of contamination by nuclear DNA.
Dramatic Data: The Possibilities of Ethnodramatic Writing for Understanding the Experiences of English Learners in Community College Settings

In this article, we demonstrate how ethnodramatic writing can offer critically needed insights into the language learning and educational trajectories of a significant yet little researched group of immigrant English learners in community college settings. The participants' reflections and impressions about learning English and about U.S. culture were woven into two dramatic scenes. The authors employ Bakhtinian and postcolonial perspectives to analyze participants' language-use as they narrate their experiences and position themselves as speakers of English in U.S. societies. This study suggests that ethnodramatic writing when combined with critical analysis have much to offer both to researchers hoping to engage with qualitative data with greater reflexivity and to educational practitioners striving to understand and meet the needs of linguistically and culturally diverse adult English learners.
Progesterone protects fetal chorion and maternal decidua cells from calcium-induced death

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether progesterone exerts a protective effect in chorion and decidua cells when exposed to calcimycin. Study design Fetal membrane samples were collected from term elective repeat cesarean deliveries and chorion and decidua cells that are separated and cultured. Cells were pretreated with progesterone and exposed to calcimycin. Cell viability was determined, and percent cell viability was calculated. Results Exposure to calcimycin resulted in a reduction of cell viability in both chorion and decidua cells in a dose-dependent fashion. In chorion and decidua cells, progesterone pretreatment followed by calcimycin increased cell viability compared with calcimycin treatment alone (chorion, 67%, vs controls, 24%; P P Conclusion These preliminary results suggest that progesterone may provide a protective effect in fetal membrane cells and that this effect may be mediated through the progesterone receptor.
Spin coherence studies of a quasi-one-dimensional crystal: Trap-to-trap energy migration and stimulated echo decay

Abstract Optically detected spin coherence experiments including spin locking, two-pulse Hahn echoes and three-pulse stimulated echoes were performed on h 2 traps in isotopically mixed 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene. Values for the rate constants for trap-to-trap triplet energy migration are obtained for crystals of several different trap concentrations, and the relative importance of various energy transfer pathways is estimated. The results suggest direct superexchange as an important mechanism for triplet energy migration in these crystals. We also find that some out-of-chain energy transfer must occur to account for our results.
UNCTAD: Regulation versus self-regulation

The third session of UNCTAD adopted six resolutions on shipping and ports. They relate to: the development of ports; the international combined transport of goods; freight rates; the development of merchant marines; economic cooperation in merchant shipping; and a code of conduct for liner conferences.
Optimal storage design for a multi-product plant: A non-convex MINLP formulation

We discuss a tank design problem for a multi product plant, in which the optimal cycle time and the optimal campaign size are unknown. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation is presented, where non-convexities are due to the tank investment cost, storage cost, campaign setup cost and variable production rates. The objective of the optimization model is to minimize the sum of the production cost per ton per product produced. A continuous-time mathematical programming formulation is proposed and several extensions are discussed. The model is implemented in GAMS and computational results are reported for the two global MINLP solver BARON and LINDOGlobal as well as several nonlinear solvers available in GAMS.
A Randomized Trial of Acute Normovolemic Hemodilution Compared to Preoperative Autologous Blood Donation in Total Knee Arthroplasty

The value of acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) compared to preoperative autologous blood donation (PAD) in elective surgery is controversial. We therefore conducted a prospective, randomized study to compare these techniques in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. ANH patients underwent up to 4 units phlebotomy or to a target hematocrit level of 28% after induction of anesthesia. PAD patients were asked to donate 1 (unilateral) or 2 (bilateral, revisions) units before admission. Mean baseline hematocrit levels were not different between ANH and PAD patients (40.6±4.1 vs. 38.4±3.4, p = 0.09). Eight (73%) of 11 patients undergoing bilateral revision procedures received a total of 22 allogeneic blood units, whereas only 3 (14%) of 21 patients undergoing primary, unilateral procedures received a total of 3 allogeneic units (p = 0.002). We found no differences in allogeneic blood transfusions between ANH and PAD cohorts for all (n = 32) patients (1.0±1.2 vs. 0.6±1.4, p = 0.45), for unilateral knee (n = 21) replacement (0.25±0.46 vs. 0.08±0.28, p = 0.29), or for bilateral/revision (n = 11) procedures (1.9±1.3 vs. 2.5±1.9, p = 0.53). We conclude that each technique is equally effective in reducing allogeneic blood exposure. Patients undergoing revision or bilateral knee arthroplasties require adjunctive therapy to autologous blood procurement to further reduce allogeneic blood exposure.
Resolving Disulfide Structural Isoforms of IgG2 Monoclonal Antibodies by Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry

Recombinant monoclonal antibodies are an important class of therapeutic agents that have found widespread use for the treatment of many human diseases. Here, we have examined the utility of ion mobility mass spectrometry (IMMS) for the rapid characterization of disulfide variants in intact IgG2 monoclonal antibodies. It is shown that IMMS reveals 2 to 3 gas-phase conformer populations for IgG2s. In contrast, a single gas-phase conformer is revealed using IMMS for both an IgG1 antibody and a Cys-232 → Ser mutant IgG2, both of which are homogeneous with respect to disulfide bonding. This provides strong evidence that the observed IgG2 gas-phase conformers are related to disulfide bond heterogeneity. Additionally, IMMS analysis of redox enriched disulfide isoforms allows assignment of the mobility peaks to established disulfide bonding patterns. These data clearly illustrate how IMMS can be used to quickly provide information on the higher order structure of antibody therapeutics.
Color experience and the human animal

It is one thing to understand what advantages an animal such as ourselves gains by being able to exploit spectral information in its environment, but quite another to understand how the animal benefits by having conscious color experiences. Since experiences are private, how could they confer a selective advantage? Could they do so by enabling voluntary action of a sort forever beyond the resources of the most ingeniously designed wavelength-processing robot? Or is there an ancient biological link between color experience and the emotions that colors evoke in us?
Spearman-Brown reliability coefficients for Ferguson's 80-item pair-comparisons person-perception scale.

In prior publications (Ferguson, 1970; Huguenard, Sager, & Ferguson, 1970; Rinella, Ferguson, & Sager, 1970; Sager & Ferguson, 1970) there has been described an 80-item pair-comparisons scale to reflect position on a cold-warm personality dimension. In the scale each of 10 warm-related adjectives is paired with each of 10 neuual adjectives, so that scores can range from -80 (cold) to +80 (warm). Warm-related adjeccives, after Asch (1946)-in order of over-all increasing frequency of endorsement-are humorous, altruistic, imaginative, popular, generous, wise, humane, happy, social, and good-nanued. Neutral adjectives -in order of over-all increasing frequency of endorsement-are reliable, honest., talkative, serious, persistent, good-looking, suong, and important. In the SagerFerguson person-perception studies each of 389 interviewers was required to complete the scale co reflect his perceptions of an interviewee. Each of 389 interviewees was required to do the same for his interviewer. Resu1t.r.-Table 1 provides a summary. The lowest raw (odd-even) correlation is .45; the highest, .82. The independent variables were as follows: Set
Critical exponents for the coexistence curves for NaCl-H2O near the critical temperature of H2O. Reply to comment by A.H. Harvey and J.M.H. Levelt Sengers

Abstract On isotherms close to that of Tc for H2O, the effective exponent for the liquid-vapor difference in mole fraction differs from that for the density difference. This difference in exponents hasbeen invoked qualitatively to explain certain properties for NaCl-H2O. This Comment presents quantitative values of this difference in exponents, calculated from a very recent equation of state, and shows that these results are consistent with the experimental coexistence surface.
Arctic shipping and marine invaders

The emergence of new Arctic trade routes will probably change the global dynamics of invasive species, potentially affecting marine habitats and ecosystem functions, especially in coastal regions.
Does limb angular motion raise limb arterial pressure

AIM Mechanical factors such as the muscle pump have been proposed to augment flow by several mechanisms. The potential for limb angular motion to augment local perfusion pressure (pressure = (1/2)rhor(2)omega(2), where rho is the fluid density, r the radius and omega the angular velocity) has been overlooked. We sought to test the hypothesis that limb angular motion augments limb arterial pressure. METHODS Nine human subjects performed horizontal shoulder flexion ( approximately +/-90 degrees at 0.75 Hz for 30 s). We measured finger arterial pressure (photoplethysmography) in the moving (Trial 1) and non-moving arm (Trial 2) in separate trials along with the pressure (strain gauge) generated at the fingers within a length of water-filled tubing mounted on the moving arm in both trials. RESULTS Arm swinging raised (P < 0.05) the mean pressure measured in the tubing by 11 +/- 2 and 14 +/- 2 mmHg (Trials 1 and 2 respectively). In response to exercise, the rise in mean finger arterial pressure in the swinging limb (18 +/- 3 mmHg, Trial 1) exceeded (P < 0.05) the rise in the resting limb (8 +/- 2 mmHg, Trial 2) by an amount similar to the 11 mmHg rise in pressure generated in the tubing in Trial 1. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the swinging of a limb creates centrifugal force (a biomechanical centrifuge) which imparts additional pressure to the arteries, but not the veins owing to the venous valves, which further widens the arterial-venous pressure difference.
Advancing prevention science and practice: challenges, critical issues, and future directions

Progress in identifying effective programs and policies for preventing tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use has stimulated a growing sense of optimism about the potential of prevention science and practice. This paper summarizes some of the key challenges and critical issues that still need to be addressed for the advances of the past two decades of prevention research to have an impact on the nature of prevention practice and eventually translate into reductions in mortality and morbidity. In addition to identifying effective strategies for disseminating the use of evidence-based prevention programs and policies, issues related to implementation fidelity and adaptation need to be better understood as well as factors associated with institutionalization of effective prevention programs. Further advances in prevention science and practice will require a new emphasis on blended research models that involve conducting prevention research in practice settings with the active collaboration of researchers and practitioners.
Bioimpedance Analysis: A Guide to Simple Design and Implementation

Background Bioimpedance analysis has found utility in many fields of medical research, yet instrumentation can be expensive and/or complicated to build. Advancements in electronic component design and equipment allow for simple bioimpedance analysis using equipment now commonly found in an engineering lab, combined with a few components exclusive to impedance analysis. Materials and methods A modified Howland bridge circuit was designed on a small circuit board with connections for power and bioimpedance probes. A programmable function generator and an oscilloscope were connected to a laptop computer and were tasked to drive and receive data from the circuit. The software then parsed the received data and inserted it into a spreadsheet for subsequent data analysis. The circuit was validated by testing its current output over a range of frequencies and comparing measured values of impedance across a test circuit to expected values. Results The system was validated over frequencies between 1 and 100 kHz. Maximum fluctuation in current was on the order of micro-Amperes. Similarly, the measured value of impedance in a test circuit followed the pattern of actual impedance over the range of frequencies measured. Conclusions Contemporary generation electronic measurement equipment provides adequate levels of connectivity and programmability to rapidly measure and record data for bioimpedance research. These components allow for the rapid development of a simple but accurate bioimpedance measurement system that can be assembled by individuals with limited knowledge of electronics or programming.
Nonlinear simultaneous input and state estimation with application to flow field estimation

This paper studies the problem of simultaneous input and state estimation for a nonlinear dynamical system. A Bayesian paradigm is proposed to provide statistical derivation of joint input and state estimators. Using the Bayesian paradigm, a Maximum a Posteriori (MAP) based estimation scheme is developed as a joint estimator. The scheme involves nonlinear MAP optimization, which is addressed by a classical Gauss-Newton method. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is illustrated via a simulation based study on ocean flow field estimation using submersible drogues that can measure position and acceleration intermittently.
Comparison of QIAGEN Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction Methods for CMV Quantitative PCR Testing

We examined the effect of nucleic acid extraction methods on the analytic characteristics of a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for cytomegalovirus (CMV). Human serum samples were extracted with 2 automated instruments (BioRobot EZ1 and QIAsymphony SP, QIAGEN, Valencia, CA) and CMV PCR results compared with those of pp65 antigenemia testing. Both extraction methods yielded results that were comparably linear and precise, whereas the QIAsymphony SP had a slightly lower limit of detection (1.92 log(10) copies/mL vs 2.26 log(10) copies/mL). In both cases, PCR was more sensitive than CMV antigen detection, detecting CMV viremia in 12% (EZ1) and 21% (QIAsymphony) of antigen-negative specimens. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using 2 different extraction techniques to yield results within 0.5 log(10) copies/mL of the mean value, a level that would allow for clinical comparison between different laboratory assays.
Factoring multivariate polynomials over algebraic number fields in MACSYMA

The algorithm for factoring polynomials over the integers by Wang and Rothschild is generalized to an algorithm for the irreducible factorization of multivariate polynomials over any given algebraic number field. The extended method makes use of recent ideas in factoring univariate polynomials over large finite fields due to Berlekamp and Zassenhaus. The procedure has been implemented in the algebraic manipulation system MACSYMA. Some machine examples with timing are presented.
Oxytocin, vasopressin and pair bonding: implications for autism

Understanding the neurobiological substrates regulating normal social behaviours may provide valuable insights in human behaviour, including developmental disorders such as autism that are characterized by pervasive deficits in social behaviour. Here, we review the literature which suggests that the neuropeptides oxytocin and vasopressin play critical roles in modulating social behaviours, with a focus on their role in the regulation of social bonding in monogamous rodents. Oxytocin and vasopressin contribute to a wide variety of social behaviours, including social recognition, communication, parental care, territorial aggression and social bonding. The effects of these two neuropeptides are species-specific and depend on species-specific receptor distributions in the brain. Comparative studies in voles with divergent social structures have revealed some of the neural and genetic mechanisms of social-bonding behaviour. Prairie voles are socially monogamous; males and females form long-term pair bonds, establish a nest site and rear their offspring together. In contrast, montane and meadow voles do not form a bond with a mate and only the females take part in rearing the young. Species differences in the density of receptors for oxytocin and vasopressin in ventral forebrain reward circuitry differentially reinforce social-bonding behaviour in the two species. High levels of oxytocin receptor (OTR) in the nucleus accumbens and high levels of vasopressin 1a receptor (V1aR) in the ventral pallidum contribute to monogamous social structure in the prairie vole. While little is known about the genetic factors contributing to species-differences in OTR distribution, the species-specific distribution pattern of the V1aR is determined in part by a speciesspecific repetitive element, or ‘microsatellite’, in the 5 0 regulatory region of the gene encoding V1aR (avpr1a). This microsatellite is highly expanded in the prairie vole (as well as the monogamous pine vole) compared to a very short version in the promiscuous montane and meadow voles. These species differences in microsatellite sequence are sufficient to change gene expression in cell culture. Within the prairie vole species, intraspecific variation in the microsatellite also modulates gene expression in vitro as well as receptor distribution patterns in vivo and influences the probability of social approach and bonding behaviour. Similar genetic variation in the human AVPR1A may contribute to variations in human social behaviour, including extremes outside the normal range of behaviour and those found in autism spectrum disorders. In sum, comparative studies in pair-bonding rodents have revealed neural and genetic mechanisms contributing to social-bonding behaviour. These studies have generated testable hypotheses regarding the motivational systems and underlying molecular neurobiology involved in social engagement and social bond formation that may have important implications for the core social deficits characterizing autism spectrum disorders.
External fixation of unstable pelvic ring fractures: comparative rigidity of some current frame configurations

The effectiveness of external fixation in the stabilisation of pelvic ring fractures was studied in a laboratory cadaveric series. Shearing displacements occurring at sacroiliac joint and symphysis pubis dislocation sites, due to simplified longitudinal loading of the sacrum in an Instron unit, were monitored using variable-impedence transducers. The rigidity of fixation was compared for the Slatis and the Bonnel single anterior frames, for coupled and uncoupled double anterior frames, and for combined anterior-plus-posterior fixation achieved with separate transfixation pin clusters, with through-and-through pin clusters, or with a posterior screw plate. The data showed that the use of posterior fixation provided greatly enhanced stabilisation compared to that achieved with anterior fixation alone. The complex double anterior frames performed only slightly better than did the simpler single anterior frames. In no case, however, was it possible to recover rigidity levels approaching those of the intact pelvis. The results suggest that the transfixation pin arrangement is the most important determinant of pelvic fixation stability, and that further investigation of posterior screw-plate fixation is warranted.
PURIFICATION OF NOREPINEPHRINE STORAGE GRANULES FROM RAT HEART.

Abstract Noripinephrine storage particles have been prepared from rat heart centrifugation in a continuous sucrose gradient prepared by diluting 0.73 M sucrose exponentially with 0.25 M sucrose. This preparation is enriched about 60 fold over the original homogenate with respect to protein and RNA and appears by electron microscopy to consist largerly of small vesicles 50 μm in diameter. This represents the most extensive purification of these granules reported to date.
Are there neurologic correlates of in utero cocaine exposure at age 6 years

At age 6 years, a cohort of non-asphyxiated children, 52 with gestational cocaine exposure and 63 control subjects, underwent a neurologic examination. Groups did not differ on any aspect of the examination. This finding, while reassuring, does not exclude the possibility of more subtle deficits.
All-fibre components using periodic coupling

The paper presents a new class of all-fibre devices based upon periodic coupling principles. The two basic devices which are described are a birefringent fibre polarisation coupler and a two-mode fibre transverse mode coupler. Both devices consist of a ridged plate which is used to periodically stress a fibre with a periodicity equal to the beat length of the modes to be coupled. This periodic stress has been shown to result in almost complete power transfer for both the devices described. These `in-line couplers' have been shown to have several applications, e.g. amplitude modulators, notch filters, polarisers, mixers etc. One of the most important results of the work in this area was the development of an all-fibre frequency shifter based upon the principles of periodic coupling. More work needs to be done in the design and engineering of these devices, and there is still room for new ideas and approaches.
MRI using radiofrequency magnetic field phase gradients

Conventionally, MR images are formed by applying gradients to the main static magnetic field (B0). However, the B0 gradient equipment is expensive, power-hungry, complex, and noisy and can induce eddy currents in nearby conducting structures, including the patient. Here, we describe a new silent, B0 gradient-free MRI principle, Transmit Array Spatial Encoding (TRASE), based on phase gradients of the radio-frequency (RF) field. RF phase gradients offer a new method of k-space traversal. Echo trains using at least two different RF phase gradients allow spin phase to accumulate, causing k-space traversal. Two such RF fields provide one-dimensional imaging and three are sufficient for two-dimensional imaging. Since TRASE is a k-space method, analogues of many conventional pulse sequences are possible. Experimental results demonstrate one-dimensional and two-dimensional RF MRI and slice selection using a single-channel, transmit/receive, 0.2 T, permanent magnet, human MR system. The experimentally demonstrated spatial resolution is much higher than that provided by RF receive coil array sensitivity encoding alone but lower than generally achievable with B0 gradients. Potential applications are those in which one or more of the features of simplified equipment, lower costs, silent MRI, or the different physics of the image formation process are particularly advantageous. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Neurobiology: serotonin sustains serenity.

An elegant variation on conventional gene-knockout techniques can delete a gene at specific times and locations in mice. The approach shows when and where a serotonin receptor protein is needed during development.
STARC 2.0: an improved PERT network simulation tool

Abstract This paper discusses the recent improvements made to the STARC (stochastic time and resource constraints) simulation shareware. STARC, first developed in 1984, is a PERT network simulation tool. It addresses the stochastic time and resource constraints typically encountered in PERT network analysis. The activity time modeling approach used by STARC is discussed. The paper also presents the expert-level heuristic used by STARC to prioritize activities for resource allocation during a scheduling process. An illustrative example of a simulation run with STARC is presented. The program is available as a shareware from the author.
The BCL-2 Family Reunion

B cell CLL/lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) and its relatives comprise the BCL-2 family of proteins, which were originally characterized with respect to their roles in controlling outer mitochondrial membrane integrity and apoptosis. Current observations expand BCL-2 family function to include numerous cellular pathways. Here we will discuss the mechanisms and functions of the BCL-2 family in the context of these pathways, highlighting the complex integration and regulation of the BCL-2 family in cell fate decisions.
Immersive Planning: A Conceptual Model for Designing Public Participation with New Technologies

Public participation is an important part of the urban planning process. However, too often the goals of this participation are not clearly articulated and, as a result, the platforms for participation created with digital technologies are often poorly designed or simply lack clarity. Immersive planning is a conceptual model with which to conceive the process of public participation that focuses on the depth and breadth of user experience. Borrowing from literature on games and virtual environments, we frame recent, technologically aided approaches to public participation within three categories of immersion: challenge-based, sensory, and imaginative. Geographic information systems, computer aided design, planning support systems, virtual environments, and digital games are all methods of obtaining user immersion in one or a combination of these categories. In this paper we provide a review of the foundational literature and influential projects in this area, and by framing them within the model of immers...
The effect of an arginyl to a cysteinyl replacement on the uncoating behaviour of a spherical plant virus

Abstract A mutant of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus is described which, when extracted in the absence of cysteine and diethyldithiocarbamate, is noninfective. The mutant virus apparently cannot be uncoated to initiate infection because phenol extracts of its RNA are infective. The mutant is more pH and salt stable than is the wild-type virus. The properties of the mutant are related to the replacement of an arginyl by a cysteinyl residue.
Defects present within adhesive layers

A technique is described for liberating the adhesive layer from adhesive-bonded aluminum panels. Procedures are described for demonstrating directly the presence of defects within adhesive layers. The presence of a variety of types of defects is undoubtedly responsible for the inability to develop a general nondestructive test for evaluating adhesivebonded panels.
Generation of front-surface low-mass epoxy-composite mirrors by spin-casting

Spin-casting liquid mixtures followed by in situ polymerization offers an elegant and inexpensive method of generating front surface paraboloidal mirrors of almost any focal length, aperture, and on- or off-axis character, requiring no post polishing. Mirrors have been made from a variety of substrates including epoxy-composite mixtures, with focal lengths ranging from 2 to 80 m, and apertures from 5 to 76 cm. The goal of this project was to make spin-cast mirrors for use as reflectors, telescopes, and cat’s-eye retroreflectors in open path Fourier transform infrared (OP/FT-IR) spectrometry. These mirrors were designed for portable outdoor use, and thus have been optimized for maximum ruggedness and mechanical strength, and minimal mass, coefficient of thermal expansion, and cost. After spin-casting, the only preparation prior to silvering is a thermal post-cure. Results are presented giving details of the materials, hardware, and procedures used to spin-cast paraboloidal mirrors.
Control and Simulation of a Current-Fed Linear Inductor Machine

A self-controlled, current-fed inverter excited linear inductor machine is described, in which the field current and inverter switching angles are programmed such that the machine operates at constant air-gap flux and unity displacement factor under all operating conditions. The machine can operate in wide speed range and constant predetermined torque is developed during both motoring and regeneration. The control incorporates overlap angle compensation for the inverter and permits modulation of inverter firing angle with resolution of a fraction of a degree. The dynamic d-q axis model of the machine with the power converters and the proposed control strategy has been simulated on a hybrid computer, and static and dynamic performance have been studied in detail. The control circuit has been designed and tested with a 112-kW prototype inductor machine. The experimental results give good agreement with the theory and with simulation.
Cognitive Aging: General versus Process-Specific Slowing in a Visual Search Task

The fact that response times increase as one ages has long been established. Previously, a model of general slowing in the nonlexical domains has done a really good job of explaining the differences between older and younger adults. However, an alternative process-specific model has not been conclusively ruled out. This experiment tested general and process-specific models of slowing in the nonlexical domain using older and younger adults performing a visual search task. The task manipulated the presence of the target, the number of search items, and the structure of the display of the search items. It was found that a process-specific model explained significantly more of the variability than a general model of slowing. It was also discovered that the process most greatly affected was that of deciding to terminate a search when no target was present in the display.
Acoustic factors in visual search.

Previous work has shown that in searching for existing or absent “e.s” in printed prose, the presence or absence of silent “e.s” was less likely to be detected than that of pronounced “e.s.” It was suggested that the acoustic or kinaesthetic “image” was searched for evidence of an “e” in addition to the visual stimulus and that evidence from both sources was considered in making the appropriate response. The present experiment employs mainly substitutive errors within words, which may or may not change their pronunciation. The results suggest that the form of the acoustic correlates has no bearing upon whether the words are detected as wrongly spelt, but that the presence or absence of an acoustic event corresponding in time to the spatial location of the error is important. Exchange scientist from the M.R.C. Applied Psychology Research Unit, Cambridge, England.
In Situ Hybridization for the Detection of Telomerase RNA in the Progression from Barrett's Esophagus to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND The rate of incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma has surpassed that of all other malignancies in the U.S. Esophageal adenocarcinoma arises from Barrett's esophagus through the multistep accumulation of genetic mutations in metaplastic cells, accompanied by histologic changes from metaplasia to low grade and high grade dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Although telomerase activity has been demonstrated in 85-90% of human cancers, to the authors' knowledge there are no reports regarding esophageal adenocarcinoma. The objective of this study was to determine whether telomerase RNA is increased in esophageal adenocarcinoma and at what point in the histologic progression such an increase occurs. METHODS Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded esophageal biopsies from patients with Barrett's esophagus and surgical resection specimens of esophageal adenocarcinoma containing varying stages of neoplastic progression were obtained. Adjacent sections from each specimen were evaluated by routine histology and in situ hybridization for the RNA component of human telomerase. RESULTS The authors found that 100% of esophageal adenocarcinomas and high grade dysplasias were strongly positive for telomerase RNA. Basal crypt cells of Barrett's metaplasia demonstrated weak to moderate telomerase RNA in 70% of cases, whereas 90% of low grade dysplasias had moderate levels of telomerase RNA. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study showed that 1) Barrett's epithelium may contain a population of immortalized cells, 2) a marked increase in the level of telomerase RNA accompanies the transition from low grade to high grade dysplasia, and 3) high levels of telomerase RNA accompany the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma in the vast majority of cases. Cancer 1998;83:652-659. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
Utilizing reverse short channel effect for optimal subthreshold circuit design

The impact of the Reverse Short Channel Effect (RSCE) on device current is stronger in the subthreshold region due to the reduced Drain-Induced-Barrier-Lowering (DIBL) and the exponential dependency of current on threshold voltage. This paper describes a device size optimization method for subthreshold circuits utilizing RSCE to achieve high drive current, low device capacitance, less sensitivity to random dopant fluctuations, and better subthreshold swing. Simulation results using ISCAS benchmark circuits show that the critical path delay and power consumption can be improved by up to 10.4% and 34.4%, respectively.
Cocaine-induced transmural myocardial infarction in a Yorkshire swine with normal coronary arteries: Evidence for microvascular and/or epicardial coronary artery spasm.

Cocaine-induced myocardial infarction with normal coronary arteries is well documented in humans. The exact mechanism of action remains speculative. We report one case of cocaine-induced myocardial infarction with normal coronaries in one swine. Systemic hemodynamics and angiographic, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and histopathologic data are presented. Intravenous cocaine (1, 3, 10 mg/kg) produced significant decreases in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, stroke volume, coronary blood flow, and coronary reserve, whereas pulmonary artery diastolic pressure and coronary vascular resistances increased. Left anterior descending and left circumflex coronary artery cross-sectional area decreased by 31% and 64%, respectively, without localized vasospasm. Electrocardiographic changes occurred (3 mm ST elevation in leads II, III, AVF). Peak creatine phosphokinase was 17,220 IU/L. The echocardiogram revealed severe hypokinesis of the inferior wall and normal ventricular function. The animal survived the acute phase of the infarction and the swine was restudied 12 weeks later. Upon rechallenge, systemic and coronary hemodynamics shoved changes similar to those in the previous study. The swine developed ventricular fibrillation and expired after the 10 mg/kg cocaine dose. Macroscopic examination of the external surface of the heart revealed marked diffuse fibrosis in the posteroinferior and lateral left ventricular wall. Our data suggest that the infarct induced by cocaine may have resulted from severe vasoconstriction or spasm at the level of the microcirculation, and/or the epicardial coronary arteries, which shoved slight but significant narrowing throughout their lengths.
Data Mining User Activity in Free and Open Source Software FOSS/ Open Learning Management Systems

Free and Open Source Software FOSS/Open Educational Systems development projects abound in higher education today. Many universities worldwide have adopted open source software like ATutor and Moodle as an alternative to commercial or homegrown systems. The move to open source learning management systems entails many special considerations, including usage analysis facilities. The tracking of users and their activities poses major technical and analytical challenges within web-based systems. This paper examines how user activity tracking challenges are met with data mining techniques, particularly web usage mining methods, in four different open learning management systems: ATutor, LON-CAPA, Moodle, and Sakai. As examples of data mining technologies adapted within widely used systems, they represent important first steps for moving educational data mining outside the research laboratory. Moreover, as examples of different open source development contexts, exemplify the potential for programmatic integration of data mining technology processes in the future. As open systems mature in the use of educational data mining, they move closer to the long-sought goal of achieving more interactive, personalized, adaptive learning environments online on a broad scale.
Urinary Beta-Glucuronidase in Screening and Followup of Primary Urinary Tract Malignancy

AbstractPurpose: The usefulness of urinary beta-glucuronidase in screening and followup of urinary tract malignancy was tested.Materials and Methods: The activity and concentration of urinary beta-glucuronidase were determined in 80 healthy subjects, 113 urology patients with no cancer, and 60 with transitional cell and 23 with renal cell carcinoma. Patients with cancer were followed for 3 to 33 weeks.Results: The enzyme activity and concentration were significantly greater in the cancer group, including residual tumor or recurrence after therapy, than in the controls with excellent discrimination.Conclusions: Urinary beta-glucuronidase was indeed useful in screening and followup of urinary tract malignancy.
Movement and degradation of aldicarb residues in the saturated zone under citrus groves on the Florida ridge

Abstract A 1.7-ha section of citrus grove near Lake Hamilton was the site of a three-year field study designed to monitor the movement and degradation of the nematicide and insecticide aldicarb in the central ridge area of Florida. Soil cores were used to monitor the fate of aldicarb residues in the unsaturated zone and over 2,000 groundwater samples were collected from 174 monitoring wells to measure horizontal and vertical transport of aldicarb residues in the saturated zone. A simple saturated zone model was used to estimate the degradation rate of aldicarb residues and extrapolate findings to other ridge areas. The results of the study suggest that in the saturated zone aldicarb residues degrade at a rate corresponding to a half-life of approximately eight months. The predominantly horizontal movement of groundwater at this site limits aldicarb residues to the upper three to five meters of the saturated zone. Field data from this site together with unsaturated and saturated zone simulations suggest that in this area of Florida current restrictions on aldicarb used near potable wells are adequate to protect drinking water supplies.
The effect of pretreatment with a δ2‐opioid receptor antisense oligodeoxynucleotide on the recovery from acute antinociceptive tolerance to δ2‐opioid receptor agonist in the mouse spinal cord

1 An intrathecal (i.t.) injection of a selective δ2-opioid receptor agonist, [D-Ala2]deltorphin II, produced an acute antinociceptive tolerance to the antinociceptive effect of a subsequent i.t. challenge of [d-Ala2]deltorphin II. This acute tolerance lasted 3 to 9 h and completely subsided by 12 h. The experiments were designed to examine the effect of pretreatment with an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide to δ2-opioid receptor mRNA (δ-AS oligo) on the recovery from tolerance to [D-Ala2]deltorphin II-induced antinociception in male ICR mice. 2 Pretreatment with δ-AS oligo (1.63 to 163 pmol, i.t.), but not mismatched oligo (MM oligo) (163 pmol), prevented the recovery from acute tolerance to [D-Ala2]deltorphin II-induced antinociception in a dose-dependent manner. However, treatment with δ-AS oligo (163 pmol) did not prevent the recovery from tolerance to either the μ-opioid receptor agonist [D-Ala2,NMePhe4,Gly(ol)5]enkephalin (DAMGO) or the κ-opioid receptor agonist U50,488H, indicating subtype specificity in the mechanism by which δ-AS oligo inhibits recovery from δ2-opioid tolerance. 3 Treatment with [D-Ala2]deltorphin II (i.t.) significantly reduced the binding of [tyrosyl-3,5-3H(N)]-Tyr-D-Ser-Gly-Phe-Leu-Thr ([3H]-DSLET), a δ2-opioid receptor agonist ligand, in the spinal cord 3 h after treatment, but binding returned to control levels by 24 h after treatment. However, [3H]-DSLET binding in the spinal cord remained significantly reduced at 24 h if δ-AS oligo (163 pmol) was coadministered with [D-Ala2]deltorphin II (6.4 nmol). 4 Based on these findings, it is concluded that a single stimulation of spinal cord δ2-opioid receptors by intrathecally-administered [D-Ala2]deltorphin II induces a long-lasting desensitization of δ2-opioid receptors to [D-Ala2]deltorphin II. Recovery from δ2-opioid receptor-mediated antinociceptive tolerance apparently depends on replenishment by newly synthesized δ2-opioid receptor protein rather than immediate reversal of δ2-opioid receptors.
Cellular telephone interference with medical equipment.

OBJECTIVE To assess the potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) effects that new or current-generation cellular telephones have on medical devices. MATERIAL AND METHODS For this study, performed at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn, between March 9, 2004, and April 24, 2004, we tested 16 different medical devices with 6 cellular telephones to assess the potential for EMI. Two of the medical devices were tested with both new and old interface modules. The 6 cellular telephones chosen represent the different cellular technology protocols in use: Code Division Multiple Access (2 models), Global System for Mobile communications, Integrated Digital Enhanced Network, Time Division Multiple Access, and analog. The cellular telephones were tested when operating at or near their maximum power output. The medical devices, connected to clinical simulators during testing, were monitored by observing the device displays and alarms. RESULTS Of 510 tests performed, the incidence of clinically important interference was 1.2%; EMI was induced in 108 tests (21.2%). Interference occurred in 7 (44%) of the 16 devices tested. CONCLUSIONS Cellular telephones can interfere with medical equipment. Technology changes in both cellular telephones and medical equipment may continue to mitigate or may worsen clinically relevant interference. Compared with cellular telephones tested in previous studies, those currently in use must be closer to medical devices before any interference is noticed. However, periodic testing of cellular telephones to determine their effects on medical equipment will be required.
Inducing risk-neutral preferences: Further analysis of the data

The lottery payoff procedure does not successfully induce risk-neutral bidding behavior in first-price, sealedbid auctions. This conclusion follows from both ordinary-least-squares estimation with natural data and leastabsolute-deviation estimation with transformed data from numerous experimental designs. Lottery payoffs do not succeed in inducing behavior predicted from standard expected utility theory assumptions or from assumed utility from winning and/or income thresholds. In contrast, first-price auction experiments with monetary payoffs yield results that are consistent with general models of bidding in the independent private values information environment.
Building a Lewis Base with Boron

In introductory chemistry courses, acids are defined as substances that increase the concentration of H+ (or H3O+) in solutions (the Arrhenius concept) or act as proton donors (the Bronsted-Lowry concept). The more general Lewis concept defines an acid as a substance that can accept an electron pair and a base as a substance that can donate an electron pair. Compounds with atom centers that are inherently electron-deficient, such as boron or aluminum, readily accept electron pairs. Thus, simple compounds of these elements, such as borane (BH3) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3), are typically strong Lewis acids. If a monovalent boron center is to bear an electron pair that could be donated as a Lewis base, it would exhaust its own supply of valence electrons and end up with empty orbitals. For example, borylene compounds (such as compound A in the figure) ( 1 ) would be bases, but they are so reactive that they have only been observed as transient intermediates ( 2 , 3 ). On page 610 of this issue, Kinjo et al. ( 4 ) used carbenes to stabilize a borylene (see compound 1 in the figure). This unusual type of base (and analogs yet to be prepared) may open up new avenues in synthesis and catalysis.