cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The EGF/ErbB Receptor Family and Apoptosis

The ErbB receptor family can activate a multitude of cell signaling pathways that involve many aspects of cellular function. The four members of the ErbB receptor family interact with diverse ligands and substrates, as well as with each other through cell surface heterodimerization. The sum of these diverse interactions is a signaling network that is complex but also finely regulated. Among the cellular functions influenced by ErbB signaling is cell survival. ErbB receptor signaling has been demonstrated to interact with all of the major mechanisms of cell death signaling in a manner that promotes cell survival. Survival factors such as Ras, PI3-K, Akt, and Bcl-x/-2 all have been shown to be activated by ErbB signaling (Fig. 5). ErbB abrogation of apoptotic signals has been shown to play an important role during embryonic tissue development, in normal adult tissue maintenance (e.g. mammary tissue, wound healing), and also in tumor development and progression. Although the majority of studies suggest that ErbB receptor family members are mediators of cell survival, there have been occasional reports suggesting that ErbB receptors can induce cell death under selected experimental conditions. While this apparent discrepancy remains unresolved, in many of these reports, cell death may be the result of anoikis in response to changes in the cytoskeleton associated with hyperstimulation of ErbB signaling. The notion that ErbB receptor family members function to promote cell survival is not a recent observation. However, how this family functions to prevent apoptosis is an area that only recently has been considered. The understanding of ErbB receptor signaling as it relates to the avoidance of apoptosis had profound implications for the treatment of solid tumors originating in multiple tissues, as well as for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease. Further elucidation of the complex relationships between ErbB receptor signaling networks and the apoptotic machinery is certain to yield biologically important and potentially life-saving information.
A brief history of the Fleischner Society.

Dr Felix Fleischner was born in Vienna in 1893 and received his medical degree in 1919 from the University of Vienna. He was a member of the staff at the Wilhelminen Hospital until 1932, at which time he became Chief of Radiology at Vienna Children's Hospital. Before coming to the United States
Using the theory of planned behavior to examine pharmacists' intention to utilize a prescription drug monitoring program database

Abstract Background Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are state-operated electronic databases that contain patients' controlled drug histories. Most states provide these data to pharmacists via online web portals to combat prescription drug abuse and diversion. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: 1) explore the theory of planned behavior's (TPB) utility in predicting Texas pharmacists' intention to utilize an online accessible PDMP; 2) to determine the contribution of each construct, attitude (A), subjective norm (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC) in predicting pharmacists' intention; and 3) test whether the addition of perceived obligation (PO) is significantly related to pharmacists' intention. Methods A cross-sectional, 36-item questionnaire was developed from focus groups and literature of pharmacists' views regarding prescription drug abuse. A total of 998 practicing Texas community pharmacists were surveyed to collect data on their intention to utilize a PDMP database. Descriptive statistics, multivariate and hierarchical logistic regression analyses were used to address the study objectives. Results The response rate was 26.2% (261/998). TPB constructs were significant predictors of pharmacists' high intention to utilize the PDMP. Pharmacists with positive attitudes were almost twice as likely to have high intention (odds ratio [OR] = 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2–2.8). SN was the strongest predictor of pharmacists' high intention (OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.4–3.3). Pharmacists with high PBC were also twice as likely to have high intention (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.2–3.0). Additionally, pharmacists' PO contributed to the prediction of high intention (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.0–3.1) above that explained by the TPB model constructs ( X 2 = 4.14, P Conclusions TPB with the addition of PO was useful in predicting pharmacists' high intention to utilize a PDMP database. Interventions that address pharmacists' A, SN, PBC, and PO may be valuable to increase pharmacists' high intention. Pharmacists' utilization of PDMPs may lead to a decrease in the morbidity and mortality associated with prescription drug abuse. Future studies that assess whether intention to use PDMPs translates to actual usage are needed to strengthen these findings.
105. Der akute Blutdruckabfall bis zum Kreislaufstillstand

Wegen der Zunahme operativer Eingriffe bei Risikopatienten aller Altersklassen 1asst sich der intraoperative oder postoperative Kreislaufstillstand nur vermeiden, wenn es gelingt, die Ausgangssituation genau zu definieren, d. h. festzustellen, in welchem Umfange die vitalen Funktionen eingeschrankt sind. Atiologisch ist fur den Kreislaufstillstand fast immer eine Kombination von Ursachen verantwortlich. Die wichtigsten Ursachen und die Kombinationsmoglichkeiten sowie die Auswirkungen auf das Herz-Kreislaufsystem sind dargestellt. Daraus werden Empfehlungen fur die Prophylaxe und Therapie abgeleitet. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** APW04009 00038
Physiological Effects of Adenoviral Gene Transfer of Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase in Isolated Rat Myocytes

Background In myocardial cells, relaxation is governed primarily by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-ATPase transporting enzyme, which regulates Ca2+ sequestration into the SR. Human and experimental cardiomyopathies are associated with reduced SR Ca2+-ATPase activity. Methods and Results To modify intracellular calcium mobilization, we created a recombinant adenovirus designed to overexpress the cardiac SR Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a) under the control of the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV). In neonatal rat myocytes, Ad.RSV.SERCA2a increased the expression of SERCA2a in a concentration-dependent and time-dependent fashion. Enhancement of SR Ca2+-ATPase activity was even greater than increases in SERCA2a protein content in cells infected with Ad.RSV.SERCA2a for 48 hours at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) from 0.1 to 10.0 pfu/cell. Intracellular calcium transients measured in the neonatal cells infected with Ad.RSV.SERCA2a were characterized by an abbreviation of the relaxation phase, an increase in peak [Ca2+]i r...
The Decline of Deference: The Political Context of Risk Communication

Risk communication is seen as an important adjunct to the process of siting locally noxious facilities. To understand how risk communication might function in such a process, one needs to understand the political context that gives rise to public opposition to such facilities in the first place. This analysis draws on a variety of data to describe the decline of deference, a situation in which a hostile and alienated public is mobilized primarily through ad hoc voluntary organizations, and is increasingly reluctant to defer important decisions to institutional elites. Risk communication programs must be designed to offset the trends that result in the decline of deference. This conclusion differs markedly from the conventional wisdom that risk communication is merely a device for providing information to citizens so sthat they may make more rational decisions.
Synthesis and complete electronic and magnetic study of a new family of halogen bridged Cu(II)-guaninium dimer Coordination compounds

Abstract A new family of Cu(II) coordination compounds has been prepared with the general stoichiometry (CuX 3 ·guaninium·H 2 O) 2 where X = Cl, with w = 1 and O, F with w = 1 and Br with w = 0. Electronic spectra were interpreted by means of a trigonal bipyramidal model for the coordination geometry around the Cu(II). The Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectra were interpreted as originating in spin = 1 Cu(II) dimers with the H MIN at about 1500 G and the full field bands in the 2700-3500 G region. The order of g values were g ⊥ > g ∥ . The magnetic susceptibility of the compounds followed the Van Vleck dimer equation down to 12 °K and the 2J values ranged from 15 to 320 cm −1 . The susceptibility for the Br compound was abnormal in that the effective moment was low and constant throughout the whole temperature range. For the chloro compound a dramatic change in the 2J value occurred upon loss of the water molecule. The IR spectra indicated that the coordination occurred at the N(9) atom in all the compounds and that the positive charge was deposited at the ring except in the fluoro compound where protonation occurred at the NH 2 group.
Stability of the experimental anticancer agent [[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]hydrazono]acetic acid (NSC-267213). II: Effect of structural modification on stability and mechanism of degradation

Abstract The stability and mechanism of degradation of selected derivatives of [[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]hydrazono]acetic acid ( I ) were studied in order to evaluate the structural features contributing to its aqueous instability and the possibility of stabilizing this agent by prodrug derivatization. II , [[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]hydrazono]acetic acid ethyl ester, the ethyl ester of a compound closely related to I , was found to degrade more rapidly than the parent acid via unimolecular elimination of the corresponding sulfinic acid. Electron delocalization to the α-carbonyl group was proposed to contribute to the instability of the ester. The substitution of a methyl group for a methoxy group on the benzene ring had no significant effect on the kinetics and mechanism of degradation for the parent hydrazone. The N -methyl derivative, [[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]- N -methylhydrazono]acetic acid ( III ), demonstrated much greater stability than I and appeared to degrade primarily by hydrolysis. These results indicated that without the possible ionization of the NH group, the unimolecular elimination was not an important degradation route. Consideration of these structural features and the degree of instability of I led to a proposal to stabilize this agent by formation of an N -substituted bioreversible derivative.
Estrogen stimulation of DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity in immature rat uterus.

Abstract DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity in the immature rat uterus has been examined in terms of molecular species present and their response to estrogen treatment. The molecular species of DNA polymerase were characterized by DEAE-cellulose chromatography, sucrose density gradient analysis, sulfhydryl reagent sensitivity and optimal assay conditions. DNA polymerase α activity was found predominantly in the high-speed cytosol but was also present in 0.4 M KCl nuclear extract preparation. DNA polymerase β activity was only observed in nuclear extracts. Estradiol treatment resulted in a dose-dependent, estrogen-specific increase in DNA polymerase activity, principally due to increases in cytoplasmic DNA polymerase α activity. A 3–4-fold maximal increase of DNA polymerase activity occurred 24–30 h after a single hormone treatment in close correspondence to hormone-induced increased DNA synthesis. When hormone treatment was sustained by daily injections of estradiol, the DNA polymerase response became refractory to continued stimulation after two days.
Energetic materials separations and specific polymorph preparations via thermal gradient sublimation

Abstract The principles and methods of thermal gradient sublimation are presented, and experiments showing the application of the technique to energetic materia
Polarized vernier optometer

An optometer that makes use of polarized light and is based on the Scheiner principle is described. It is similar in construction and use to the better-known laser optometer, but it is less expensive, avoids some of the problems inherent in using lasers, and is responded to very well by subjects in behavioral research. Uses of the device are discussed, and the laser and vernier optometers are contrasted. It is concluded that the polarized vernier optometer is an economical and effective alternative to the laser optometer in behavioral research settings.
Electrical and Mechanical Properties of C 70 Fullerene and Graphite under High Pressures Studied Using Designer Diamond Anvils

We compare electrical and mechanical properties of ${\mathrm{C}}_{70}$ fullerene with high purity graphite to $48\mathrm{GPa}$ at room temperature using designer diamond anvils with embedded electrical microprobes. The electrical resistance of ${\mathrm{C}}_{70}$ shows a minimum at $20\mathrm{GPa}$ with transformation to an amorphous insulating phase complete above $35\mathrm{GPa}$, while graphite remains conducting. Nanoindentation shows hardness values 220 times larger for the pressure quenched amorphous phase than for similarly treated graphite. Our studies establish that the amorphous carbon phase produced from ${\mathrm{C}}_{70}$ has unique properties not attainable from graphite.
L-type and T-type calcium channel blockade potentiate the analgesic effects of morphine and selective μ opioid agonist, but not to selective δ and κ agonist at the level of the spinal cord in mice

We examined the effects of amlodipine, a selective L-type voltage dependent Ca(2+) channel (VDCC) blocker, and mibefradil, a selective T-type VDCC blocker on the antinociceptive effects of morphine, and mu, delta and kappa opioid receptor selective agonist-induced antinociception at the spinal level. Intrathecally administered amlodipine and mibefradil potentiated morphine and [D-Ala(2), N mePhe(4), Gly-ol(5)] enkephalin (DAMGO)-induced antinociception by shifting their dose response curves to the left. However, intrathecally administered amlodipine and mibefradil did not affect [D-Pen(2), D-Pen(5)]enkephalin (DPDPE) and [trans-(+/-)-3,4-dichloro-N-methyl-N-[2-(1-pyrolidinyl)cyclohexyl] benzene acetamide (U-50, 488H)-induced antinociception. These data indicate that L-type and T-type VDCC blockers synergistically potentiate the analgesic effects of mu opioid receptor agonists, but not delta and kappa opioid receptor agonists, at the spinal level. Additionally, these data suggest that there is an important functional interaction between L-type and/ or T-type VDCC and mu opioid receptors in the process of analgesia.
Examining the Effects of Cue Valence and Attention Load on Prospective Memory

Previous research has shown that emotion can affect memory. The current study examines the influence of target cues’ valence on prospective memory performance under both nondivided and divided attention loads. We predict that positive and negative valence words will lead to better prospective memory performance than neutral words. Understanding exactly how target cue valence impacts prospective remembering is vital in the future research and design of memory aids.
Analysis of indoor particle size distributions in an occupied townhouse using positive matrix factorization

UNLABELLED From late 1999 to early March 2000, measurements of particle number (particles 0.01-20 microm in aerodynamic diameter) concentrations were made inside of a townhouse occupied by two non-smoking adults and located in Reston, VA (approximately 25 miles northwest of Washington, DC). The particle size measurements were made using an SMPS and an APS as well as a Climet optical scattering instrument. In this study, positive matrix factorization (PMF) was used to study the indoor particle size distributions. The size distributions or profiles obtained were identified by relating the obtained source contributions to the source information provided by the occupants. Nine particle sources were identified, including two sources associated with gas burner use: boiling water and frying tortillas. Boiling water for tea or coffee was found to be associated only with the smallest particles, with a number mode close to the detection limit of the SMPS (i.e., 0.01 microm). Frying tortillas produced particles with a number mode at about 0.09 microm while broiling fish produced particles with a number mode at about 0.05 microm. A citronella candle was often burned during the study period, and this practice was found to produce a 0.2-microm modal number distribution. Other indoor particle sources identified included sweeping/vacuuming (volume mode at 2 microm); use of the electric toaster oven (number mode at 0.03 microm); and pouring of kitty litter (volume mode over 10 microm). Two outdoor sources were also resolved: traffic (number mode at about 0.15 microm) and wood smoke (major number mode at about 0.07 microm). The volume distributions showed presence of coarse particles in most of the resolved indoor sources probably caused by personal cloud emissions as the residents performed the various indoor activities. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS This study has shown that continuous measurements of indoor particle number and volume concentrations together with records of personal activities are useful for indoor source apportionment models. Each of the particle sources identified in this study produces distinct size distributions that may be useful in studying the mortality and morbidity effects of airborne particulate matter because they will have different penetrability and deposition patterns.
Effects of white cell reduction on the resistance of blood components to bacterial multiplication.

BACKGROUND: While prestorage white cell (WBC) reduction by filtration may improve platelet and red cell quality, it also may remove an important anti-bacterial defense mechanism, especially if blood is WBC- reduced shortly after collection. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The question of whether WBC reduction of platelet concentrates and red cells altered bacterial proliferation kinetics in components prepared from deliberately contaminated, freshly collected blood was investigated. Two-unit pools of whole blood were inoculated, at a concentration of approximately one colony-forming unit per mL, with one of 17 bacterial species reported to have caused septicemia in transfusion recipients. Each pool was divided after inoculation, and components were prepared from the 2 units after a 7-hour room- temperature holding period. One unit of each AS-1 red cell or platelet pair was WBC-reduced, and the pairs were then stored for 42 days at 4 degrees C (red cells) or for 10 days at 22 degrees C (platelets). Quantitative bacterial cultures were performed at periodic intervals. RESULTS: In red cells, clinically significant bacterial proliferation occurred in only one instance (Serratia marcescens), and growth was less rapid in the WBC-reduced unit than in the control. Three patterns of growth were seen in platelet concentrates. In four cases, there was rapid proliferation in both test and control units, while on 13 occasions there was minimal replication in either pair. On six occasions, substantial growth was noted in control units, while few or no bacteria could be found in the WBC-reduced units. There was no evidence in either red cells or platelets that bacteria proliferated more rapidly in units that had been WBC-reduced before storage than they did in units in which WBCs were retained. CONCLUSION: Rather than increasing the risk of bacterial proliferation through removal of active phagocytic cells, WBC reduction by filtration before blood storage may act to reduce the likelihood of significant bacterial proliferation, possibly by removal of microorganisms along with WBCs.
Employing MALDI-MS on Poly(alkylthiophenes): Analysis of Molecular Weights, Molecular Weight Distributions, End-Group Structures, and End-Group Modifications

Regioregular, head-to-tail coupled, poly(3-alkylthiophenes), synthesized by three different methods, were subjected to MALDI-TOF MS analysis. Polymer samples of both high and low polydispersities were examined. Polymer samples of narrow polydispersity were obtained by fractionation of the polymer by Soxhlet extraction with various solvents. Comparisons between the molecular weights calculated by MALDI and GPC of all fractionated polymer samples showed that GPC calculated molecular weights are a factor of 1.2−2.3 times higher than MALDI. The polydispersities calculated by MALDI were identical or slightly lower than those calculated by GPC. Polymer end-group compositions were also analyzed. We found that more than one type of end-group structure could be detected, and these structures are dependent on the synthetic method employed. Chemical modification of the end-group structure was also performed and monitored by MALDI with successful results. We observed that smaller polymer chains were subject to end-gr...
The effect of UCN-01 (7-hydroxystaurosporine), a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C, on fractionated radiotherapy or daily chemotherapy of a murine fibrosarcoma

PURPOSE To investigate the effect of UCN-01 (7-hydroxystaurosporine), a potent and selective protein kinase C inhibitor, on fractionated irradiation or daily chemotherapy; cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (cis-DDP) or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in vivo. Radiosensitivity and chemosensitivity given in combination with UCN-01 were further studied in vitro to analyze these in vivo results. METHODS AND MATERIALS For in vivo studies, single-cell suspension was prepared from fourth generation FSa-II tumors and transplanted subcutaneously into the leg of 8-10-week-old C3Hf/Sed mice. Treatments were initiated when tumors reached an average diameter of 4 mm. Tumor response was studied using tumor growth and growth delay time assays. UCN-01 was given continuously for 7 days using Alzet osmotic pump (4.0 microg/microl/h or approximately 3.2 mg/kg/day). A daily gamma-ray dose of 10 Gy each was given in air for 7 days. Cis-DDP (0.7 mg/kg/day) or 5-FU (20 mg/kg/day) was given by an i.p. injection for 7 days. For in vitro studies, an established FSa-II cell line was used and cell survival was studied by colony formation assay. RESULTS UCN-01 acted synergistically with fractionated irradiation, though it was slightly radioprotective in vitro and had no effect on SLD repair. The surviving fraction of the FSa-II cells treated with both UCN-01 and cis-DDP in vitro was lower than the calculated additive effect; however, the sensitizing effect of UCN-01 was not found when combined with either of the chemotherapeutic agents in vivo. Possible causes of synergism of combined UCN-01 and fractionated radiation may be that a continuous UCN-01 treatment inhibited clonogen repopulation during the course of fractionated irradiation and accumulated cells in the G2-M phase where cells are most sensitive to irradiation. CONCLUSION UCN-01 is a promising agent that may indirectly interact with fractionated irradiation in vivo but may not with chemotherapeutic agents.
Effect of intravenous lipid emulsions enriched with γ-linolenic acid on plasma n-6 fatty acids and prostaglandin biosynthesis after burn and endotoxin injury in rats

Objective:To study the effect of intravenous lipid emulsions enriched with γ-linolenic acid on plasma fatty acids and series-2 prostaglandins to determine if the slow conversion of linoleic acid by Δ-6-desaturase to γ-linolenic acid could be bypassed to provide substrate for the formation of dihomo-
Reassessing Coxcatlan Cave and the early history of domesticated plants in Mesoamerica.

Reanalysis and direct accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon dating of the cucurbit assemblage from Coxcatlan Cave provide information on the timing and sequence of the initial appearance of three domesticated plants in the Tehuacan Valley (Puebla, Mexico) and allow reassessment of the overall temporal context of plant domestication in Mexico. Cucurbita pepo is the earliest documented domesticate in the cave, dating to 7,920 calibrated calendrical (cal) years B.P. The bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) is dated at 7,200 cal years B.P. Cucurbita argyrosperma does not appear until 2,065 cal years B.P. The earlier identification of Cucurbita moschata specimens is not confirmed. Seventy-one radiocarbon dates, including 23 accelerator mass spectrometry dates on cucurbits, provide ample evidence of postdepositional vertical displacement of organic materials in the western half of Coxcatlan Cave, but they also indicate that the eastern half of the cave was largely undisturbed.
Lacrimal gland innervation is not altered with the onset and progression of disease in a murine model of Sjögren's syndrome.

Abstract The lacrimal glands of patients with Sjogren's syndrome develop extensive lymphocytic infiltration, but also contain a large number of seemingly healthy looking acinar and ductal cells. Despite this, the secretory function of this tissue is impaired, leading to aqueous tear-deficient dry eye. This raises the possibility that there is a defect in the neural innervation of the remaining portion of the lacrimal gland. To test for this possibility, we used antibodies specific to various markers of the parasympathetic, sympathetic, and sensory nerves and performed immunohistochemical analyses of lacrimal glands from a murine model of Sjogren's syndrome, the MRL/Mp- Fas-lpr / lpr (MRL/lpr) and the control mice MRL/Mp−+/+ (MRL/+). Our results show that the MRL/lpr, but not the MRL/+, lacrimal glands become infiltrated with lymphocytes starting at 8 weeks of age which worsens by 12 and 18 weeks. The density and the pattern of parasympathetic, sympathetic, and sensory innervation of the noninflamed acinar tissue of MRL/lpr lacrimal glands, at 4, 8, 12, and 18 weeks, is indistinguishable from that of age-matched control MRL/+ lacrimal glands. We conclude that the loss of the secretory function in Sjogren's syndrome lacrimal glands is not due to a loss or decrease of its innervation.
Reduced Mcm2 Expression Results in Severe Stem/Progenitor Cell Deficiency and Cancer

Mcm2 is a component of the DNA replication licensing complex that marks DNA replication origins during G1 of the cell cycle for use in the subsequent S-phase. It is expressed in stem/progenitor cells in a variety of regenerative tissues in mammals. Here, we have used the Mcm2 gene to develop a transgenic mouse in which somatic stem/progenitor cells can be genetically modified in the adult. In these mice, a tamoxifen-inducible form of Cre recombinase is integrated 3' to the Mcm2 coding sequence and expressed via an internal ribosome entry site (IRES). Heterozygous Mcm2(IRES-CreERT2/wild-type (wt)) mice are phenotypically indistinguishable from wild-type at least through 1 year of age. In bigenic Mcm2(IRES-CreERT2/wt); Z/EG reporter mice, tamoxifen-dependent enhanced green fluorescence protein expression is inducible in a wide variety of somatic stem cells and their progeny. However, in Mcm2(IRES-CreERT2/IRES-CreERT2) homozygous embryos or mouse embryonic fibroblasts, Mcm2 is reduced to approximately one-third of wild-type levels. Despite the fact that these mice develop normally and are asymptomatic as young adults, life span is greatly reduced, with most surviving to only approximately 10-12 weeks of age. They demonstrate severe deficiencies in the proliferative cell compartments of a variety of tissues, including the subventricular zone of the brain, muscle, and intestinal crypts. However, the immediate cause of death in most of these animals is cancer, where the majority develop lymphomas. These studies directly demonstrate that deficiencies in the function of the core DNA replication machinery that are compatible with development and survival nonetheless result in a chronic phenotype leading to stem cell deficiency in multiple tissues and cancer. Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Impulsive loading from a bare explosive charge in space

Abstract : This document considers a platform target subjected to a normal impact of explosive products generated by detonating a bare charge in space. It is suggested that the loading impulse may be approximated by the total momentum of that portion of the fluid which impacts at the target. Assuming impulsive dynamic response, and assuming that the ensuing damage is proportional to the kinetic energy imparted to the structure by the blast, we get a particularly simple law; Damage similar to W to the 2nd power/R to the 4th power (W is charge mass, R is range). This model is an idealization of a solar panel (or antenna) extended in a paddle-like fashion from a relatively rigid and massive core structure. It is also shown that this law implies that no advantage can be realized by re-arranging the mass of a single bare charge in a cluster configuration of smaller sub-charges, which would be dispersed and detonated via an idealized 'isotropic' scheme. Keywords: Gas dynamics; Exhaust plumes; Spacecraft.
3DVIEWNIX-AVS: a software package for separate visualization of arteries and veins in CE-MRA images

Our earlier study developed a computerized method, based on fuzzy connected object delineation principles and algorithms, for artery and vein separation in CE-MRA images. This paper reports its current development - a software package - for the routine clinical use. The software package, termed 3DVIEWNIX-AVS, consists of the following major operational parts: 1)converting data from DICOM3 to 3DVIEWNIX format, 2) previewing slices/creating VOI and MIP shell, 3) segmenting vessel, 4) separating artery and vein, 5) shell rendering vascular structures and creating animations. This package has been applied to EPIX Medical Inc's CE-MRA data (AngioMark MS-325). 133 original CE-MRA data sets (of 52 patients) from 6 hospitals have been processed. In all case studies, unified parameter settings produce correct artery/vein separation. The current package is running on a Pentium PC under Linux and the total operation time per study is about 10 minutes. The strengths of this software package are its 1) minimal user interaction, 2) minimal anatomic knowledge requirements on human vascular system, 3) clinically required speed, 4) free entry to any operational stages, 5) reproducible, reliable, high quality of results, and 6) cost effective computer implementation. To date, it seems to be the only software package (using an image processing approach) available for artery and vein separation for the routine use in a clinical setting.
Solitons in Nonlinear Fiber Arrays

The propagation of solitons, due to non-Kerr law nonlinearity, through nonlinear fiber arrays is studied here in this paper. The parameter dynamics of such solitons, that are governed by the coupled generalized nonlinear Schrodinger's equation, has been obtained, for the first time, in this paper. This dynamical system can be used to study optical switching.
Atmospheric turbulence effects on a monostatic and bistatic retroreflecting link

Experiments were conducted over a retro-reflecting link using both a monostatic and a bistatic laser interrogator that operated over adjacent terrestrial paths of ranges between 2 and 4km. Data communications parameters were monitored on the bistatic channel and irradiance measurements were recorded on both interrogators simultaneously. The off-axis bistatic receiver was 75mm in diameter and showed the advantage of both aperture averaging and uncorrelated irradiance components in comparison with the 28mm receiver used in the on-axis monostatic system. The normalized flux variance measured in the bistatic receiver peaked at a value close to 1 while the on-axis system saw corresponding levels of about 10 under sunlit midday conditions.
Taxonomies of Educational Technology Uses: Dewey, Chip and Me

In the early 1990s, Chip Bruce created a taxonomy of education technology uses, which the author of the article helped to expand and evaluate. This taxonomy is based on John Dewey's ‘four impulses of the child’: inquiry, construction, communication, and expression. This taxonomy has helped people interested in the uses of technologies for education to better understand the range of uses and it has also helped spur the development of new uses.
Regional Differences In The Association Between Hiv And Hsv-2 Prevalence: Implications For Hiv Epidemic Potential

ABSTRACT Background and Objective HIV and herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) are sexually transmitted infections, with HSV-2 being nearly 10 times as infectious as HIV. HSV-2 prevalence has been established as an objective biomarker and a proxy measure of sexual risk behavior. HIV epidemics appear to be emerging in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, but the time course and future size of these epidemics are still unknown. We assessed HIV epidemic potential across regions using the association between HSV-2 and HIV prevalence, and based on a global systematic review of HIV and HSV-2 prevalence and meta-analyses. Methods Sources of data were PubMed and Embase databases, and country-level reports. Data on the prevalence of HIV (PHIV) and of HSV-2 (PHSV2) in the same population were extracted from eligible studies. Our analysis included all population groups except adolescents and injecting drug users, where the dominant mode of HIV transmission was not sexual. Studies with sample sizes of less than 50 were excluded. Odds ratios were calculated as (PHSV2/ (1- PHSV2)) / (PHIV/ (1- PHIV)), and relative risks as (PHSV2/ PHIV). Meta-analyses were conducted incorporating the inverse variance method and using a random-effects model to pool summary estimates of odds ratios and relative risks in different geographical regions. Results The meta-analysis included 662 study measures with a total population of 590,220 individuals from 67 countries. The pooled odds ratio of HSV-2 prevalence relative to HIV prevalence was low in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and North America/West Europe, 6.0 (95% CI 5.5-6.5), 10.4 (95% CI 9.2- 11.8), and 13.0 (95% CI 9.9- 17.8), respectively. We found high odds ratios in East Europe 73.6 (95% CI 32.8-165.5), MENA 38.0 (95% CI 15.2-95.0), and Latin America 30.4 (95% CI 22.4-41.4). The pooled estimates of relative risks followed the same pattern as the odds ratios across all regions. Discussion The small odds ratios in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and North America/West Europe suggest established HIV epidemics that have likely reached saturation. Meanwhile, the large odds ratios in MENA, East Europe, and Latin America, suggest emerging HIV epidemics that have not yet reached their epidemic potential. These results corroborate recent data about the trend of HIV epidemics in these regions. The findings are of concern for MENA as they suggest that the HIV epidemics are likely to grow within this decade and the next one. HIV response in MENA needs to be expanded through bio-behavioral surveillance, voluntary counseling, testing, and treatment services, and focus on HIV prevention.
Kaon-nucleon couplings for weak decays of hypernuclei

We investigate the weak kaon-nucleon (NNK) {ital S}-wave and {ital P}-wave interactions using heavy baryon chiral perturbation theory. The leading one-loop SU(3) breaking contributions to the {ital ppK}, {ital pnK}, and {ital nnK} couplings are computed. We find that they suppress all NNK amplitudes by 30{percent} to 50{percent}. The ratio of neutron-induced to proton-induced hypernuclear decay widths is sensitive to such reductions. It has been argued that the discrepancy between the predicted and observed {ital P}-wave amplitudes in {Delta}{ital s}=1 hyperon decay results from an accidental cancellation between tree-level amplitudes, and is not a fundamental problem for chiral perturbation theory. Agreement between experimentally determined NNK {ital P}-wave amplitudes and our estimates would support this explanation. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Physics of mirror reactors and devices

Abstract The physics of plasma confinement using the magnetic mirror principle is discussed, and the unique features of the mirror reactor approach to fusion are discussed and compared to the toroidal confinement approach.
Point defect structures of YAl2 and ZrCo2 Laves phase compounds by first-principles calculations

Abstract In Laves phase alloys with prominent size mismatch between constituent atoms and/or large negative enthalpy of formation, the existence of vacancies as the dominant point defect type is often suggested. However, there are not enough experimental data to prove or disprove these arguments. Employing first-principles calculations, we study the point defect structures of YAl 2 and ZrCo 2 C15 Laves phases, as both compounds exhibit large size mismatch between constituent atoms, and large negative enthalpy of formation. We find that one must go beyond the simple geometrical or enthalpy arguments in determining the point defect structures of these alloys. In both compounds, the point defect structure is found to be dominated by the anti-site defects on the larger atom-rich side of the stoichiometry.
Using financial ratios to differentiate domestic and multinational corporations

The objective of this empirical study is to determine if multinational corporations have statistically different financial characteristics that can be used to differentiate the multinational corporations from domestic corporations. We find that multinational corporations have higher levels for net profit margin, total asset turnover and leverage. However, the retention rates for the two groups are not statistically significantly different.
Mosaic r(13) resulting in large deletion of chromosome 13q in a newborn female with multiple congenital anomalies

A newborn female presented with multiple congenital anomalies including facial dysmorphism, agenesis of the corpus callosum, type I laryngeal cleft, tracheal stenosis, bilaterally small kidneys, segmental vertebral anomalies, extranumerary rib, bilateral hip dislocation, digital anomalies, and growth retardation. Newborn aneuploidy detection (NAD) based on interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) indicated monosomy 13 in 47 of 200 (23.5%) peripheral blood cells (normal cutoff 8.5% at 95% CI). The follow-up banded metaphase-based analysis of 20 cells revealed a karyotype of 46,XX. The analysis of 30 additional cells revealed one cell to have monosomy 13 and a small ring chromosome. In the abnormal cell line, the ring was positive for whole chromosome paint (wcp) 13 and negative for Rb1 (13q14.3). The ring was detected in 4% of 80 additional metaphases studied by FISH. Therefore, the ring was present in 4% (5/130) of metaphases from peripheral blood. Analysis of buccal cells by FISH indicated the ring was present in 36% of cells. A higher degree of mosaicism (60%) was detected in fibroblast cultures from a skin biopsy. The low-level mosaicism of ring 13 in metaphase cells from peripheral blood would have been missed if the standard 20 GTL-banded metaphases had been analyzed. In this case, a preliminary interphase FISH study had indicated monosomy 13 resulting from a large 13q deletion that included the Rb1 locus. This finding initiated the analysis of additional metaphases by GTL-banding and the analysis of metaphases and interphases by FISH. The clinical presentation of our patient was consistent with reported cases of 13q deletions. In addition, our patient had airway anomalies, including a type I laryngeal cleft and tracheal stenosis, which are previously unreported.
Relationship of the serotonin transporter with prolactin response to meta-chlorophenylpiperazine in cocaine dependence.

Abstract Background : Preclinical evidence indicates that exposure to cocaine influences the activity of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) as well as several 5-HT receptor subtypes. However, little is known about the relationship between the 5-HTT and 5-HT receptors following cocaine exposure in humans. Objective: We examined the relationship between platelet 5-HTT, a presynaptic 5-HT measure, and prolactin (PRL) response to meta -chlorophenylpiperazine ( m -CPP), a postsynaptic 5-HT receptor agonist in cocaine dependent individuals. Methods : Platelet [3H] paroxetine binding sites were assayed and the m -CPP challenge test was performed in 35 African American cocaine dependent individuals and 33 controls. Clinical measures included assessments of drug use severity and depression. Results: Cocaine subjects showed reduced Bmax of [3H] paroxetine ( t = 4.67, p m -CPP ( F = 21.86, p r = 0.50, p r = 0.19). ANCOVA analyses showed that the cocaine subgroup with moderate and severe reduction in Bmax showed a greater blunting in PRL response compared to the subgroup with mild Bmax reductions ( F = 9.44, p F = 17.90, p Conclusions: Disturbances in serotonin transporter binding and post-synaptic 5-HT receptor function seem to be associated in cocaine-dependent subjects. Severity of cocaine use appears to mediate this relationship. Whether there is a causal association between the two measures, or cocaine has separate and independent pre- and post-synaptic effects needs to be clarified.
Genetic responses against nitric oxide toxicity

The threat of free radical damage is opposed by coordinated responses that modulate expression of sets of gene products. In mammalian cells, 12 proteins are induced by exposure to nitric oxide (NO) levels that are sub-toxic but exceed the level needed to activate guanylate cyclase. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) synthesis increases substantially, due to a 30- to 70-fold increase in the level of HO-1 mRNA. HO-1 induction is cGMP-independent and occurs mainly through increased mRNA stability, which therefore indicates a new NO-signaling pathway. HO-1 induction contributes to dramatically increased NO resistance and, together with the other inducible functions, constitutes an adaptive resistance pathway that also defends against oxidants such as H2O2. In E. coli, an oxidative stress response, the soxRS regulon, is activated by direct exposure of E. coli to NO, or by NO generated in murine macrophages after phagocytosis of the bacteria. This response is governed by the SoxR protein, a homodimeric transcription factor (17-kDa subunits) containing [2Fe-2S] clusters essential for its activity. SoxR responds to superoxide stress through one-electron oxidation of the iron-sulfur centers, but such oxidation is not observed in reactions of NO with SoxR. Instead, NO nitrosylates the iron-sulfur centers of SoxR both in vitro and in intact cells, which yields a form of the protein with maximal transcriptional activity. Although nitrosylated SoxR is very stable in purified form, the spectroscopic signals for the nitrosylated iron-sulfur centers disappear rapidly in vivo, indicating an active process to reverse or eliminate them.
Density-of-states calculations within the recursion method.

We investigate methods to calculate projected density of states from a finite set of recursion coefficients. We consider tight-binding Hamiltonians describing the diamond-structure semiconductors \ensuremath{\alpha}-Sn, Ge, Si, and C. Coefficients for about 110 levels of recursion are available for these Hamiltonians. Thus, we have coefficients for a sufficient number of recursion levels so that their asymptotic behavior is apparent. We first extrapolate the calculated coefficients using a linear predictive analysis suggested by Allan. This extrapolation is based on a perturbation theory that assumes that band gaps are small compared to the bandwidth. For \ensuremath{\alpha}-Sn, Ge, and Si, which have band gap to bandwidth ratios (for the model Hamiltonians) of less than 0.05, the extrapolation procedure is found to be very successful. For C, however, with a band gap to bandwidth ratio of 0.106, large spurious features, which can be clearly associated with second-order perturbation terms, appear in the calculated density of states. We modify the extrapolation procedure using nonperturbative results for the asymptotic behavior of the recursion coefficients. The new extrapolation procedure gives good densities of states for C. Also, the calculated Green's function has the correct analytic structure.
Low-frequency magnetic and resistance noise in magnetic tunnel junctions

We have studied the voltage fluctuations of current-biased, micron-scale magnetic tunnel junctions. We find that the spectral power density is $1/f$-like at low frequencies and becomes frequency independent at high frequencies. The frequency-independent background noise is due to Johnson-Nyquist noise and shot noise mechanisms. The nature of the $1/f$ noise has its origin in two different mechanisms. In the magnetic hysteresis loops this noise power is strongly field-dependent and is due to thermal magnetization fluctuations in both the ``free'' and ``fixed'' magnetic layers. We attribute these magnetic fluctuations to thermally excited hopping of magnetic domain walls between pinning sites. At high temperatures, this magnetic noise is found to track the dc resistance susceptibility but it is not in quantitative agreement with the fluctuation dissipation relation, indicating that the magnetic structure is not in equilibrium. A second mechanism for the $1/f$ noise, connected with defects in the tunnel barrier but not related to the overall magnetization fluctuations, was found at fields for which the magnetic structure in the free and fixed layers is well aligned. We attribute this noise to electron trapping processes having thermally activated kinetics and a broad distribution of activation energies. Below $\ensuremath{\sim}25\mathrm{K}$ the noise power is temperature independent suggesting that the kinetics are dominated by tunneling. Our results show that the thermal stability of both the magnetic layers and the quality of the tunnel barrier are important factors in reducing the low-frequency noise in magnetic tunnel junctions.
Lability of Sulfur in Casein Peptized with Sodium Hydroxide

Abstract Iso-electric casein peptized with normal or decinormal NaOH or other alkali metal hydroxides liberates part of its sulfur as alkali sulfides. These sulfides can be separated by dialysis of the alkaline sols against water. Hydrogen sulfide is released either directly from the alkaline sols or from their diffusates by acidification with n HCl at pH 4.60 to 4.70. The separation of sufides from the alkaline casein sols through dialysis indicates that sulfur is split from casein during peptization. Alkali-metal phosphates and carbonates apparently catalyze the reaction, since lower pH values are required to release sulfur. Sulfur is released during three successive peptizations of casein at pH 6.40 to 12.00. The data indicate that common methods of purifying casein and buffers employed in electrophoretic studies probably cause partial release of sulfur from casein.
Application of an Environmental Decision Support System to a Water Quality Trading Program Affected by Surface Water Diversions

Environmental decision support systems (EDSSs) are an emerging tool used to integrate the evaluation of highly complex and interrelated physicochemical, biological, hydrological, social, and economic aspects of environmental problems. An EDSS approach is developed to address hot-spot concerns for a water quality trading program intended to implement the total maximum daily load (TMDL) for phosphorus in the Non-Tidal Passaic River Basin of New Jersey. Twenty-two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) spread throughout the watershed are considered the major sources of phosphorus loading to the river system. Periodic surface water diversions to a major reservoir from the confluence of two key tributaries alter the natural hydrology of the watershed and must be considered in the development of a trading framework that ensures protection of water quality. An EDSS is applied that enables the selection of a water quality trading framework that protects the watershed from phosphorus-induced hot spots. The EDSS employs Simon’s (1960) three stages of the decision-making process: intelligence, design, and choice. The identification of two potential hot spots and three diversion scenarios enables the delineation of three management areas for buying and selling of phosphorus credits among WWTPs. The result shows that the most conservative option entails consideration of two possible diversion scenarios, and trading between management areas is restricted accordingly. The method described here is believed to be the first application of an EDSS to a water quality trading program that explicitly accounts for surface water diversions.