cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Finding parametric representations of the cortical sulci using an active contour model

Abstract The cortical sulci are brain structures resembling thin convoluted ribbons embedded in three dimensions. The importance of the sulci lies primarily in their relation to the cytoarchitectonic and functional organization of the underlying cortex and in their utilization as features in non-rigid registration methods. This paper presents a methodology for extracting parametric representations of the cerebral sulci from magnetic resonance images. The proposed methodology is based on deformable models utilizing characteristics of the cortical shape. Specifically, a parametric representation of a sulcus is determined by the motion of an active contour along the medial surface of the corresponding cortical fold. The active contour is initialized along the outer boundary of the brain and deforms toward the deep root of a sulcus under the influence of an external force field, restricting it to lie along the medial surface of the particular cortical fold. A parametric representation of the medial surface of the sulcus is obtained as the active contour traverses the sulcus. Based on the first fundamental form of this representation, the location and degree of an interruption of a sulcus can be readily quantified; based on its second fundamental form, shape properties of the sulcus can be determined. This methodology is tested on magnetic resonance images and it is applied to three medical imaging problems: quantitative morphological analysis of the central sulcus; mapping of functional activation along the primary motor cortex and non-rigid registration of brain images.
Sleep Quality, Depression, and Quality of Life in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a disabling disease characterized by progressive functional worsening, right heart failure, and death. Although pulmonary hypertension has been associated with poor quality of life, sleep quality has not been investigated in pulmonary hypertension patients. This was a cross-sectional study in which patients (N = 40) were asked to complete standardized questionnaires to assess sleep quality [using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)], insomnia, sleepiness, dyspnea, depression, restless leg syndrome, and quality of life [using Cambridge Pulmonary Hypertension Outcome Review (CAMPHOR)] during routine office visits. Baseline hemodynamics, pulmonary function tests, exercise capacity, and transthoracic echocardiogram were analyzed. Pulmonary hypertension functional class was World Health Organization class II [20 (50%)], III [18 (45%)], and IV [2 (5%)], and 29 (72.5%) had poor sleep quality. PSQI score was associated with CAMPHOR symptoms score (R = 0.61, P < 0.001), CAMPHOR activities score (R = 0.38, P = 0.016), CAMPHOR quality-of-life score (R = 0.45, P = 0.004), depression (R = 0.42, P = 0.007), and dyspnea (R = 0.36, P = 0.02). Sleep quality was not associated with age, gender, other comorbidities, pulmonary hypertension etiology, baseline hemodynamics, pulmonary function testing, echocardiographic parameters, or exercise capacity. Poor sleep quality is common in patients with pulmonary hypertension and correlates with depression, dyspnea, and poor quality of life. Improving sleep quality in patients with pulmonary hypertension may improve quality of life.
Staying Present: Incorporating Mindfulness into Therapy for Dissociation

Dissociation involves retreating from the experience of the present moment through various processes, while mindfulness cultivates the ability to stay in the present moment. We argue that mindfulness is thus uniquely well suited for treatment of dissociation. This paper delineates the theoretical relationship between mindfulness and dissociation, discussing how incorporating mindfulness into psychotherapy can improve outcomes for dissociative clients. Mindfulness can provide clients with specific techniques for enhancing prediction of and control over dissociation through building awareness of dissociative processes and offering a tool for staying in the present moment. Mindfulness reduces reliance on avoidance, which in turn diminishes the need for dissociation. In addition, taking the position of the observer, which is a key feature of mindfulness, is itself a capability associated with dissociation. We discuss the application of mindfulness to three types of dissociative processes: detachment (e.g., depersonalization, derealization), absorption (e.g., daydreaming, “blanking out”), and compartmentalization (e.g., amnesia, conversion symptoms). Three mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of integrating mindfulness into treatment of dissociation are proposed: (1) the techniques of mindfulness (e.g., observing, staying present), (2) the metacognitions of mindfulness (e.g., acceptance, nonjudgment), and (3) the emergent processes of mindfulness (e.g., reperceiving, dialectical thinking). Challenges to implementation of mindfulness with dissociative clients are also explored. Information and recommendations are provided to guide applications to intervention.
Multiple Sets of Fringes in the Michelson Interferometer

By using an unsilvered dividing plate in a Michelson interferometer or an intense source with the usual half-silvered plate several groups of interfering rays are produced due to internal reflections in the dividing and compensating plates. These lead to four distinct sets of interference fringes whose shapes change with variations of the distances and angles between plates and mirrors. They are circles, ellipses, straight lines and double sets of hyperbolas.
Towards optimal use of incomplete classification data

Data for classification are often incomplete. The multiple-values construction method (MVCM) can be used to include data with missing values for classification. In this study, the MVCM is implemented by using fuzzy sets theory in the context of classification with discrete data. By using the fuzzy sets based MVCM, data with missing values can add values to classification, but can also introduce excessive uncertainty. Furthermore, the computational cost for the use of incomplete data could be prohibitive if the scale of missing values is large. This paper discusses the association between classification performance and the use of incomplete data. It proposes an algorithm of near-optimal use of incomplete classification data. An experiment with real-world data demonstrates the usefulness of the algorithm.
An analysis of Montréal's Quartier Chinois and sense of self: Une Loi peut faire mal au dragon, mais La Loi ne peut pas tuer le dragon

In 1976, the provincial parliament in Quebec ratified the Charter of the French Language, or La Loi 101. The Charter is a collection of linguistic laws meant to promote the French language in Quebec. Since its ratification, supporters of the Charter have called it a protection of “French‐Canadian identity”. The Charter has also come under scrutiny from Anglophones (English speakers) and Allophones (non‐native English or French speakers) in Quebec. This paper analyzes one group of Allophones, Chinese‐Canadians, in Quebec's largest city, Montreal. In particular, this analysis examines how the Chinese‐Canadian community in Montreal perceives their self‐identity as threatened by La Loi 101 and believes this law is a form of forced assimilation.
Jefferson Lab IR demo FEL photocathode quantum efficiency scanner

Abstract Jefferson Laboratory's Free Electron Laser (FEL) incorporates a cesiated gallium arsenide (GaAs) DC photocathode gun as its electron source. By using a set of scanning mirrors, the surface of the GaAs wafer is illuminated with a 543.5nm helium–neon laser. Measuring the current flow across the biased photocathode generates a quantum efficiency (QE) map of the 1-in. diameter wafer surface. The resulting QE map provides a very detailed picture of the efficiency of the wafer surface. By generating a QE map in a matter of minutes, the photocathode scanner has proven to be an exceptional tool in quickly determining sensitivity and availability of the photocathode for operation.
Mutational Analysis of the Vitamin D Receptor Does Not Support Its Candidacy as a Tumor Suppressor Gene in Parathyroid Adenomas

Context: The vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) is a compelling candidate tumor suppressor gene for parathyroid adenomas based on existing evidence of the vitamin D system’s antiproliferative actions in parathyroid and other tissues, its reported inhibition of PTH gene transcription, and the decreased expression of VDR mRNA and VDR protein observed in parathyroid adenomas. Objective: Because demonstration of intragenic mutations is required to establish the authenticity and primary role in pathogenesis for any candidate tumor suppressor gene, we examined the VDR gene in parathyroid adenomas for the presence of such mutations and other loss-of-function abnormalities. Methods and Results: Genomic DNA samples from 37 sporadic parathyroid adenomas and matched normal control DNA from the same individuals were subjected to direct sequencing of the entire VDR coding region and all intron-exon boundaries. No VDR coding region or junctional mutations were identified. The tumors were also analyzed for loss of heterozygo...
Haloperidol-induced plasticity of axon terminals in rat substantia nigra

An electron micrographic morphometric analysis of nerve endings in substantia nigra of rats repeatedly treated with haloperidol was performed. Although most parameters showed no difference, drug-treated animals exhibited a significant shift in the distribution of relative numbers of axon terminals, suggesting neuroleptic-induced axon-collateral sprouting.
Specific heat measurements on (YSe) 0.8 (TmSe) 0.2 and (LaSe) 0.9 (TmSe) 0.1 alloys

Abstract Specific heats of the alloys (YSe) 0.8 (TmSe) 0.2 and (LaSe) 0.9 (TmSe) 0.1 have been measured. A low temperature upturn in Y-based alloy is attributed to the appearance of magnetic order. The magnetic contribution increases above 16 K and is attributed to crystalline field effect. A bump, similar to that of TmTe is observed.
Effects of chlorsulfuron on polyamine content in maize seedlings

Abstract The effects of chlorsulfuron, a herbicide known to inhibit plant growth by inhibiting cell cycle progression in both G 1 and G 2 stages, were examined on free polyamine content and on growth in Zea mays seedlings. Chlorsulfuron decreased the spermidine content in active growing tissue, such as root tips, completely unaffecting the spermidine content in the basal part of the root where mitotic activity is lacking. In addition to the effects of specific spermidine inhibitors, methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone), an inhibitor of S -adenosylmethionine decarboxylase activity, cyclohexylamine, a competitive inhibitor of spermidine synthase activity, and chlorsulfuron were examined on both free and bound polyamines. Chlorsulfuron proved to be able to decrease the free and bound spermidine content more than methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone) and cyclohexylamine but probably through a different mechanism. In fact the inhibition of free spermidine content induced by methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone) and cyclohexylamine was reversed by the addition of exogenous spermidine, while no reversal effect was obtained for the inhibition of spermidine content induced by chlorsulfuron. It has been hypothesized that the depletion of spermidine content, induced by chlorsulfuron, could be responsible for the inhibition of cell cycle progression in G 1 and G 2 stages leading to growth inhibition.
Advancing the science and practice of gastroenterology and hepatology

It is my great pleasure and honour to introduce BMJ Open Gastroenterology , a new online, open access, peer-reviewed journal which will be dedicated to advancing the science and practice of gastroenterology and hepatology through the rapid publication of high-quality original research, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, endoscopic and technology reports, perspectives on all disciplines and therapeutic areas within the specialty. The creation of this journal represents a joint partnership of two great organisations with long-standing traditions of excellence in medicine, the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) and BMJ. Since 1840, when it was launched as the Provincial Medical and Surgical Journal , The BMJ has set a high standard as one of the leading authorities among medical journals, and has been distinguished for its record of ongoing innovation in medical publishing, and in fact, was the first general medical journal to enter the world wide web with the launch of bmj.com in May 1995. The BSG itself has remained a leading international specialty society within gastroenterology and hepatology, and has represented the academic and clinical home for British gastroenterologists since 1937. At a time …
Clinical Excellence in Cardiology

A recent study identified 7 domains of clinical excellence on the basis of interviews with "clinically excellent" physicians at academic institutions in the United States: (1) communication and interpersonal skills, (2) professionalism and humanism, (3) diagnostic acumen, (4) skillful negotiation of the health care system, (5) knowledge, (6) taking a scholarly approach to clinical practice, and (7) having passion for clinical medicine. What constitutes clinical excellence in cardiology has not previously been defined. The author discusses clinical excellence in cardiology using the framework of these 7 domains and also considers the additional domain of clinical experience. Specific aspects of the domains of clinical excellence that are of greatest relevance to cardiology are highlighted. In conclusion, this discussion characterizes what constitutes clinical excellence in cardiology and should stimulate additional discussion of the topic and an examination of how the domains of clinical excellence in cardiology are related to specific patient outcomes.
Protracted Bacterial Bronchitis in Young Children: Association with Airway Malacia

Objective To examine associated findings and clinical outcome in young children with prolonged cough, wheeze, and/or noisy breathing in whom high colony counts of potentially pathogenic bacteria were cultured from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) during diagnostic flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Study design This was a retrospective review of all medical records of children from infancy to 60 months of age seen in our specialty clinic from 1999 to 2009 with protracted cough, wheeze, and/or noisy breathing in whom BAL found ≥10 4 colony forming units per milliliter of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Children with other major diagnoses were excluded. Results With quantitative culture from BAL, ≥10 4 colony forming units per milliliter of Streptococcus pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenza , or Moraxella catarrhalis , separately or in combination, were found in 70 children. Neutrophilia was present in 87% of BALs. Tracheomalacia, bronchomalacia, or both was present in 52 children (74%). Symptoms were eliminated with antibiotics in all 61 children with follow-up data. Relapse and subsequent successful re-treatment occurred in 43 children. Conclusions High colony counts of potentially pathogenic bacteria associated with neutrophilia in the BAL identifies protracted bacterial bronchitis. The predominance of airway malacia in these patients suggests an etiologic role for those airway anomalies. The potential for chronic airway damage from protracted bacterial bronchitis warrants further investigation.
The HBCU Experience: Liberating or Not?

While African American women routinely outnumber African American men on the historically Black college and university (HBCU) campus, the African American woman’s voice is usually relegated to the margins within social and academic frameworks. The author seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the actual liberation of African American women on HBCU campuses. Drawing from undergraduate and graduate experiences as an African American female on campus, the author uses Collins’s (Black feminist thought: Knowledge, consciousness, and the politics of empowerment. Routledge, New York, 2009) Black feminist epistemology as a lens through which to examine her own decision to attend an HBCU while giving specific attention to the implications and intersections of race and gender. Using Black feminist epistemology and autoethnography, the author provides a critical analysis of her education at an HBCU in relationship to the experiences of other African American women. The author concludes the article explaining the intersections of education, liberation, and resistance with implications for HBCU administrators and staff in preparing African American women as campus and community leaders.
Simple credibility tests of the ERM bands for the pound sterling and the Italian lira

This article presents evidence that the European Monetary System (EMS) bands for the Italian lira and the pound sterling were not credible for most of the period 1990–1992, and especially during the week prior to their withdrawal from the EMS system. Using a simple test, developed by Svensson, domestic interest rates for both Italy and the United Kingdom have been found to be mostly outside the rate-of-return bands implied by the official arrangements of the EMS target zone system. Furthermore, comparing implied forward rates for various maturities with the official EMS bands of both currencies, we again found that the followed monetary policies in both countries were not in general consistent with those needed to maintain an orderly functioning of the (EMS) system. The Svensson test can further be used as an indicator of potential speculative attacks on an EMS currency, and, in turn, as a signal of an emerging need to adjust the corresponding country's monetary policy.
Gross and ultrastructural development of the saccule of the toadfish Opsanus tau.

The development of the saccule of the inner ear in the toadfish was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. Development was studied from the early embryo (2–3 days postfertilization), when the otocyst first forms, to the early-aged juvenile when the development of the inner ear approximates that of the adult (4 weeks postfertilization). The ultrastructural features examined included the morphological sequence of ciliary bundle growth, the development of orientation patterns of the ciliary bundles, and the relation of the ultrastructural development to overall gross development. Gross development may be divided into four distinct morphological stages. Stage I encompasses the time from initial formation of the otocyst until the start of stage II, which is the stage when the pars inferior begins migrating ventrally. In stage III the pars inferior continues to elongate ventrally. Stage IV starts when the pars inferior elongates in a rostral and caudal direction. The ear attains its adult shape in stage IV. The differentiation of the sensory cells begins during stage I. During the early part of stage I, a small cilium is found on the apical surface of each cell throughout the otocyst. In the middle and late periods of stage I, a few micro—villous buds add to the surface of the cells that already have a kinocilium. These early ciliary bundles are clustered on the rostral—ventral and caudal walls of the otocyst. There is no clear patterning to the orientation of these ciliary bundles. In stage II the ventral stretching of the labyrinth wall causes a spreading of the clustered bundles along the ventral and medial walls of the pars inferior. The orientation of the ciliary bundles has no distinct pattern. In stage III the orientations of the ciliary bundles appear adultlike, although there are so few ciliary bundles that it is difficult to make a definite determination. During stage IV, hair cells with an adultlike horizontal and vertical orientation pattern are found on the rostral and caudal sections of the saccular macula, respectively. The transition region lying between these areas has ciliary bundles with various orientations.
Neurotransmitter transporters: why dance with so many partners?

Abstract Plasma membrane transporters terminate the actions of several small molecule neurotransmitters, including glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, glycine, dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. The fact that anti-depressants, cocaine and amphetamines can have such profound behavioral effects by inhibiting the activity of some of these transporters underscores the importance of these molecules. Recent studies have begun to define the mechanisms that regulate these transporters. As these studies progress, it is becoming clear that the transporters form complexes both with themselves and with many other proteins that can regulate either transporter localization or activity. In most cases, the physiological and/or pathological relevance of these interactions is only beginning to emerge.
Prevalence of DSM-III-R self-defeating (masochistic) personality disorder in normal and outpatient populations

The prevalence of DSM-III-R self defeating (masochistic) personality disorder was determined on an outpatient population (N = 82) and a normal population (N = 40) using the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire (PDQ). Fifteen (18.3%) of the outpatients and two (5%) of normals were assessed as having the disorder. Overlap of greater than 50% with borderline, avoidant, and dependent personality disorders was found. Validation of masochistic personality disorder will require it to be of value in research and clinically in ways distinct from the other personality disorders with which it is associated.
Regulation of mechanical signals in bone.

Structured Abstract Authors – Judex S, Gupta S, Rubin C Objectives – Response of the skeleton to application and removal of specific mechanical signals is discussed. Anabolic effects of high-frequency, low-magnitude vibrations, a mechanical intervention with a favorable safety profile, as well as the modulation of bone loss by genetic and epigenetic factors during disuse are highlighted. Methods – Review. Results – Bone responds to a great variety of mechanical signals and both high- and low-magnitude stimuli can be sensed by the skeleton. The ability of physical signals to influence bone morphology is strongly dependent on the signal’s magnitude, frequency, and duration. Loading protocols at high signal frequencies (vibrations) allow a dramatic reduction in the magnitude of the signal. In the axial skeleton, these signals can be anabolic and anti-catabolic and increase the structural strength of the tissue. They further have shown potential in maxillofacial applications to accelerate the regeneration of bone within defects. Bone's sensitivity to the application and removal of mechanical signals is heavily under the control of the genome. Bone loss modulated by the removal of weight-bearing from the skeleton is profoundly influenced by factors such as genetics, gender, and baseline morphology. Conclusions – Adaptation of bone to functional challenges is complex but it is clear that more is not necessarily better and that even very low-magnitude mechanical signals can be anabolic. The development of effective biomechanical interventions in areas such as orthodontics, craniofacial repair, or osteoporosis will require the identification of the specific components of bone's mechanical environment that are anabolic, catabolic, or anti-catabolic.
Efficient Introduction of Phosphorothioates into RNA Oligonucleotides by 3-Ethoxy-1,2,4-Dithiazoline-5-One (EDITH)

We recently reported on the use of 1,2,4-dithiazolidine-3,5-dione (DtsNH) and 3-ethoxy-1,2,4-dithiazoline-5-one (EDITH) as effective sulfurizing reagents for the preparation of phosphorothioate-containing oligodeoxyribo-nucleotides [Xu et al. (1996) Nucleic Acids Res., 24, 1602-1607]. One challenge in automated solid-phase synthesis of phosphorothioate-containing RNA is to develop sulfurization reagents that are effective in the presence of bulky 2'-OH protecting groups. The present study demonstrates that EDITH is exceedingly effective at low concentrations (0.05 M) and short reaction times (2 min) for the automated synthesis of oligoribonucleotides.
The Origin of the Spatial Distribution of X-Ray-luminous Active Galactic Nuclei in Massive Galaxy Clusters

We study the spatial distribution of a 95% complete sample of 508 X-ray point sources (XPSs) detected in the 0.5-2.0 keV band in Chandra ACIS-I observations of 51 massive galaxy clusters found in the MAssive Cluster Survey (MACS). Covering the redshift range z = 0.3-0.7, our cluster sample is statistically complete and comprises all MACS clusters with X-ray luminosities in excess of 4.5 × 1044 ergs s-1 (0.1-2.4 keV, h0 = 0.7, ΛCDM). Also studied are 20 control fields that do not contain clusters. We find the XPS surface density, computed in the cluster rest frame, to exhibit a pronounced excess within 3.5 Mpc of the cluster centers. The excess, believed to be caused by active galactic nuclei (AGNs) in the cluster, is significant at the 8.0 σ confidence level compared to the XPS density observed at the field edges. No significant central excess is found in the control fields. To investigate the physical origin of the AGN excess, we study the radial AGN density profile for a subset of 24 virialized clusters. We find a pronounced central spike (r < 0.5 Mpc), followed by a depletion region at about 1.5 Mpc, and a broad secondary excess centered at approximately the virial radius of the host clusters (≈2.5 Mpc). We present evidence that the central AGN excess reflects increased nuclear activity triggered by close encounters between infalling galaxies and the giant cD-type elliptical galaxy occupying the very cluster center. By contrast, the secondary excess at the cluster-field interface is likely due to black holes being fueled by galaxy mergers. In-depth spectroscopic and photometric follow-up observations of the optical counterparts of the XPSs in a subset of our sample are being conducted to confirm this picture.
The localization of electrons in amorphous semiconductors: A twenty-first century perspective

Abstract This review covers those consequences of the localization of electronic states that appear to be universal features embracing all amorphous semiconducting materials where the electron–lattice interaction can be neglected, such as hydrogenated amorphous silicon. Several experimental measurements of these features are described. The role of strong electron–lattice interactions in some amorphous semiconducting systems, such as many chalcogenide glasses, is also discussed. In these systems, the electron–lattice interaction is so strong that it more than offsets the coulomb repulsion needed to put two electrons in the same energy state. Some experimental consequences of these so-called negative-Ueff systems are described. In addition, some universal features of metastable excitations for systems with both weak and strong electron–lattice interactions are discussed in the light of some recent experimental results.
Assessing evolutionary epistemology

There are two interrelated but distinct programs which go by the name “evolutionary epistemology.” One attempts to account for the characteristics of cognitive mechanisms in animals and humans by a straightforward extension of the biological theory of evolution to those aspects or traits of animals which are the biological substrates of cognitive activity, e.g., their brains, sensory systems, motor systems, etc. (EEM program). The other program attempts to account for the evaluation of ideas, scientific theories and culture in general by using models and metaphors drawn from evolutionary biology (EET program). The paper begins by distinguishing the two programs and discussing the relationship between them. The next section addresses the metaphorical and analogical relationship between evolutionary epistemology and evolutionary biology. Section IV treats the question of the locus of the epistemological problem in the light of an evolutionary analysis. The key questions here involve the relationship between evolutionary epistemology and traditional epistemology and the legitimacy of evolutionary epistemology as epistemology. Section V examines the underlying ontological presuppositions and implications of evolutionary epistemology. Finally, section VI, which is merely the sketch of a problem, addresses the parallel between evolutionary epistemology and evolutionary ethics.
Metal-Nonmetal Transition in Metal-Ammonia Solutions

A review is given of the properties of metal-ammonia solutions together with a summary of the evidence for the existence of a metal-nonmetal transition.
Cover Picture: Fabrication of Multicomponent Microsystems by Directed Three‐Dimensional Self‐Assembly (Adv. Funct. Mater. 5/2005)

Directed three-dimensional self-assembly to assemble and package integrated semiconductor devices is demonstrated by Jacobs and Zheng on p. 732. The self-assembly process uses geometrical shape recognition to identify different components and surface-tension between liquid solder and metal-coated areas to form mechanical and electrical connections.The components (top left) self-assemble in a turbulent flow (center) and form functional multi-component microsystems (bottom right) by sequentially adding parts to the assembly solution. The technique provides, for the first time, a route to enable the realization of three-dimensional heterogeneous microsystems that contain non-identical parts, and connecting them electrically. We have developed a directed self-assembly process for the fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) microsystems that contain non-identical parts and a statistical model that relates the process yield to the process parameters. The self-assembly process uses geometric-shape recognition to identify different components, and surface tension between liquid solder and metal-coated areas to form mechanical and electrical connections. The concept is used to realize self-packaging microsystems that contain non-identical subunits. To enable the realization of microsystems that contain more than two non-identical subunits, sequential self-assembly is introduced, a process that is similar to the formation of heterodimers, heterotrimers, and higher aggregates found in nature, chemistry, and chemical biology. The self-assembly of three-component assemblies is demonstrated by sequentially adding device segments to the assembly solution including two hundred micrometer-sized light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) integrated circuits. Six hundred AlGaInP/GaAs LED segments self-assembled onto device carriers in two minutes, without defects, and encapsulation units self-assembled onto the LED-carrier assemblies to form a 3D circuit path to operate the final device. The self-assembly process is a well-defined statistical process. The process follows a first-order, non-linear differential equation. The presented model relates the progression of the self-assembly and yield with the process parameters—component population and capture probability—that are defined by the agitation and the component design.
First trimester abortions induced by the extraovular infusion of prostaglandin F2α

Abstract A group of 12 patients, 10.8±0.4 weeks pregnant, received by extraovular infusion 2–4mg/hour PG F2α. Complete abortion was provoked in 7 and incomplete abortion in 2 patients in 9.4±1.5 hours by a total dose of 29.1±3.9mg PG F2α. Three patients failed to abort. A rapid rise in RP was evident shortly after the start of PG F2α infusion. This was followed by a gradual increase in IUP which reached 49.9±3.9mm Hg within 3 hours. Plasma progesterone levels decreased from 31.4±3.0ng/ml to 22.3±2.1ng/ml (P
FURTHER STUDIES ON THE RELATION OF THE THYROID AND HYPOPHYSIS TO OVARIAN RESPONSES OF MENOPAUSE URINE EXTRACTS1

SINCE THE discovery that the thyroid secretion acts antagonistically to the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) (1, 2), a report appeared in which it was stated that hypophysectomized female rats were more responsive to FSH than normal rats because of the hypofunction of thyroid which follows hypophysectomy (3). While studying the thyroid-hypophysis-sex relationship further, it was observed that certain extracts containing the follicle stimulating hormone did not always show the increased effectiveness in the absence of the thyroid and furthermore, other observations were at variance with those of Tyndale and Levine. In this report, we wish to present our results of studying the effect of certain menopause urine extracts, containing FSH, in thyroidectomized and hypophysectomized rats. Two different extracts of menopause urine were used. One was prepared from the urine of one individual by a tannic acid precipitation method similar to that of Levine and Tyndale.
The mechanism of separation in the louver type dust separator

(1955). The Mechanism of Separation in the Louver-Type Dust Separator. Journal of the Air Pollution Control Association: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 51-62.
Advantages of alternate modulation formats in 40Gb/s transmission

We analyzed linear and nonlinear properties of non-return-to-zero (NRZ), return-to-zero with 50% duty cycle (RZ50), return-to-zero with 33% duty cycle (RZ33), carrier-suppressed return-to-zero CSRZ, and differential phase shift keying (DPSK) modulation formats in order to predict the comparable advantages of their implementation in 40Gb/s WDM systems. We showed the advantage of RZ type formats over NRZ results from the trade off between better nonlinear tolerance and linear impairments such as inter-channel cross-talk and dispersion penalties. We estimated that in 40Gb/s 0.4 spectral efficiency WDM system on 10 100km spans of standard single mode fiber RZ33 format has Q value 1.5dB higher than NRZ. We also found that in a such system DPSK with controlled chip outperforms RZ33 by 0.8dB Q due to the difference in limiting nonlinear impairments and superior linear properties.
Environmental equity in a sunbelt city: the spatial distribution of toxic hazards in Phoenix, Arizona

Abstract This paper examines the spatial distributions of industrial facilities emitting toxic substances in the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan region. The analysis relies on geographic information system mapping of hazardous facilities listed in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) to assess the spatial distribution of polluting industries in relation to the demographic composition of host neighborhoods. The research addresses four questions: (1) Are there differences between the socioeconomic characteristics of neighborhoods with and without polluting industrial facilities? (2) Is there a relationship between the volume of toxic chemicals released from industrial facilities and the socioeconomic characteristics of host neighborhoods? (3) Is there a relationship between the toxicity of the chemicals released from industrial facilities and the socioeconomic characteristics of those living in proximity? (4) Do alternative methods for determining the distribution of potentially affected populations produce different observed patterns of environmental inequities? The study concludes that there is a clear pattern of environmental inequity in Phoenix based on the location and volume of emissions of TRI facilities. Analysis of the toxicity of emissions found a more equal distribution of risk, reflecting the suburbanization of high-technology industries into predominantly white middle-class communities.
D1-dopamine receptor blockade slows respiratory rhythm and enhances opioid-mediated depression.

Abstract Previous studies indicate that dopamine modulates the excitability of the respiratory network and its susceptibility to depression by exogenous opioids, but the roles of different subtypes of dopamine receptor in these processes are still uncertain. In this study, D 1 -dopamine receptor (D 1 R) involvement in dopaminergic modulation of respiratory rhythm and μ-opioid receptor mediated depression were investigated in pentobarbital-anesthetized cats. Intravenous administration of the D 1 R blocker SCH-23390 (100–200 μg/kg) slowed phrenic nerve and expiratory neuron respiratory rhythms by prolonging the inspiratory and expiratory phases. Phrenic nerve discharge intensity also increased more gradually during the inspiratory phase. SCH-23390 (150 μg/kg) also enhanced dose–dependent depression of phrenic nerve and expiratory neuron excitability, as well as rhythm disturbances, produced by the μ-opioid receptor agonist fentanyl (2–20 μg/kg, i.v.). The results suggest an important role for the D 1 -subtype of receptor in respiratory rhythm modulation, and indicate that this type of receptor participates in dopaminergic compensatory mechanisms directed against opioid-mediated network depression.
A Happy Birthday and a Transition at the Journal of Clinical Microbiology

The views expressed in this Editorial do not necessarily reflect the views of the journal or of ASM. It is characteristic of Science and Progress that they continually open new fields to our vision.—Louis Pasteur Happy birthday to the Journal of Clinical Microbiology (JCM)! This issue marks the
A PRECISE MOMENTUM MEASUREMENT OF THE F LINE OF THORIUM B

The momentum of the internal conversion electrons of the $F$ line of thorium B has been compared with the momentum of electrons accelerated through a known potential difference. The comparison was made by means of an iron-free high-resolution solenoidal magnetic field beta-ray spectrometer. The value obtained for the $F$ line is 1388.56\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.21 gauss-cm. Other useful calibration lines following the decay of thorium B have also been measured by comparison with the $F$ line.
Epoxidation of alkenes bearing a carboxylic acid group by iron complexes of the tetradentate ligand N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)-1,2-diaminoethane and its derivatives

Abstract The addition of carboxylic acids enhances the rate and selectivity of alkene oxidations catalyzed by [(bpmen)Fe(OTf)2] (bpmen = N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)-1,2-diaminoethane). The syntheses and characterizations of four derivatives of this iron complex with varying substitutions on the pyridine ring and with a substituted piperazine backbone are reported. These [(L)Fe(OTf)2] complexes and [(bpmen)Fe(OTf)2] are employed as catalysts for the oxidation of alkenes bearing a carboxylic acid functional group, namely oleic acid, undecylenic acid, 5-hexenoic acid and 4-pentenoic acid, with hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. Comparisons with the analogous ester substrates demonstrate the beneficial impact of the acid functional group on conversion and selectivity when using [(bpmen)Fe(OTf)2] as a catalyst. For the oleic and undecylenic acids, epoxide product is formed with moderate to high conversions and high selectivities. Under the conditions employed, 4-pentenoic acid is oxidized to a γ-lactone, most likely via the epoxide intermediate, and 5-hexenoic acid to a mixture of epoxide and δ-lactone. Of the iron complexes with bpmen derivatives as ligands, only the N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-bis(5-chloropyridin-2-ylmethyl)-1,2-diaminoethane variant shows appreciable activity. The effect of solvent choice is also investigated.
A compact gas-filled avalanche counter for DANCE

Abstract A compact gas-filled avalanche counter for the detection of fission fragments was developed for a highly segmented 4 π γ-ray calorimeter, namely the Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments located at the Lujan Center of the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center. It has been used successfully for experiments with 235 U, 238 Pu, 239 Pu, and 241 Pu isotopes to provide a unique signature to differentiate the fission from the competing neutron-capture reaction channel. It was also used to study the spontaneous fission in 252 Cf. The design and performance of this avalanche counter for targets with extreme α-decay rate up to ∼2.4×10 8 /s are described.
Homomorphisms of Moufang-Veldkamp planes

We give here a complete description of full homomorphisms between Moufang-Veldkamp planes in terms of the algebra of their coordinate rings. This generalizes known results for projective planes and projective ring planes.
Five years' experience of cholesterol treatment for the smith‐lemli-opitz syndrome (SLOS): What have we learned, where are we going?

Since January of 1994, following the discovery of the defect in cholesterol metabolism now known to cause SLOS, we have been treating SLOS patients with a concentrated suspension of cholesterol in soybean oil. Eighteen patients with SLOS, ranging in age from birth to mid teens, and ranging in pretreatment cholesterol levels from 8-90 mg/dl have been followed by us every 1-3 months for up to five years while on treatment. We will present data to show benefits of treatment in this cohort of patients. No adverse reactions to therapy have been noted. Benefits of therapy include improved growth and nutritional status, better tolerance of infection, and improvement in behavioral disturbances. Adrenal function and neutrophil function have been investigated, and both are normal. Ongoing studies are documenting neuropsychological course, CNS myelinization on MRI, and hearing status with ABR. We have discovered problems in our patients which were not previously known to occur in SLOS. These include photosensitivity, which we are now studying both in vitro in skin fibroblasts, and in vivo using timed exposure to UV light. We have also documented abnormal red cell shape (acanthocytosis), and the development of hypersplenism with thrombocytopenia in some patients. We are now accumulating experience in the management of profoundly ill neonates using fresh frozen plasma, and in prenatal diagnosis, by assessing low maternal serum estriol levels. Future plans include studies of cholesterol absorption, and the use of MR spectroscopy to assess CNS cholesterol metabolism. Our close follow-up of this patient cohort has allowed us to appreciate the complexities of issues seen in children with severe cholesterol deficiency, and to develop a greater understanding of the natural course of SLOS.
Light scattering from II IV semiconductors

Abstract We use Raman scattering techniques to investigate the surface light scattering of four II–IV semiconducting materials having the antiflourite structure Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb). The frequencies of their long wavelength optical phonons are established at room temperature. Second order Raman spectra are also discussed. All four materials exhibit strong resonance enhancement of the first order Raman intensity for excitation frequencies in the region 2.40–2.71 eV. The resonance is attributed to the E1 electronic transition. Good agreement is found between the present experimental results and an existing theoretical model on resonant Raman scattering.
The electromagnetic fields of a dipole in the presence of a thin plasma sheet

The problem of electric and magnetic dipoles located near a thin planar slab or sheet of ionized material is considered. A constant and uniform magnetic field is impressed on the slab. Under the assumption that the thickness of the slab is very small, expressions for the resultant fields are obtained. As a result of the anisotropy of the sheet it is indicated that the fields are elliptically polarized in general. On carrying out a saddle-point evaluation of the integrals in the formal solution it is shown that the far fields may be split into “radiation” and “surface wave” components. The dependence of the radiation pattern and the surface wave characteristics on electron density, collision frequency and the impressed magnetic field is illustrated.
The isolation and identification of 2-methyl-2,4-thiazolidine dicarboxylate as a by-product in the conversion of cysteine to glucose in the perfused rat liver.

Abstract Cysteine is one of the more toxic amino acids, however the toxic agent associated with cysteine toxicity has not been identified. Recently it was shown that 2-methyl-2,4-thiazolidine dicarboxylate (MTD) was formed from cysteine by rat liver and would be toxic to the rat. This suggested that MTD formed by the rat liver can be produced both enzymatically and by chemical interaction between cysteine and another compound, possibly pyruvate. When MTD (1 mmol/rat) was injected into 6 rats, two of them died. Only 70–80% of the MTD was excreted within 24 h, suggesting an accumulation of MTD. It is possible that MTD could accumulate in the tissues until it reahed a toxic concentration. Whether this could account for the death associated with cysteine toxicity is unknown.
Assessment of the mechanism of astrocyte swelling induced by the macrolide immunosuppressant sirolimus using multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

The toxic effect of the macrolide immunosuppressant sirolimus on cell metabolism of primary astrocytes was studied by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy of viable cells and perchloric acid (PCA) extracts and compared to the effects of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine. The addition of 5 mg/L sirolimus (5.5 Imol/L) induced swelling of primary astrocytes to 110% of the original volume. Alteration in astrocyte volume in the presence of sirolimus was accompanied by reduction of the following important cell osmolytes and amino acid metabolites: myo-inositol, -58 ( 12% (mean ( standard deviation, n ) 5); taurine, -44 ( 5%; glutamine, -13 ( 2%; compared with control. Sirolimus altered glucose metabolism and partially inhibited the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle: “TCA/“glycolyse ) 1.36 ( 0.09 (control, n ) 3), 0.96 ( 0.08 (with sirolimus). The increased concentration of phosphodiesters by sirolimus addition (glycerophosphoethanolamine, 52 ( 18%; glycerophosphocholine, 61 ( 14%; compared with control, n ) 5) indicated disorders in phospholipid metabolism of cellular membranes. Addition of sirolimus led to a decline of the energy state in astrocytes: the concentration of phosphocreatine (PCr) decreased to 75% of control value within 60 min of perfusion with sirolimus and the nucleotide triphosphate (NTP) concentration to 85% within 90 min (n ) 3). The effect of sirolimus on the cell metabolism of astrocytes equals that of the immunosuppressants cyclosporine and tacrolimus, the neurotoxicity of which is well-established in clinical studies. The results of this in vitro study indicate that sirolimus possesses neurotoxic potential as well.
Help Seeking for Violence: Views of Survivors

This study of reports of physical abuse by women in medical clinics identified the barriers to reporting abuse, including time constraints and providers' and patients' attitudes and help-seeking patterns, and the responses that women find most helpful. Feminist principles of organizing—consciousness raising, bottom-up organizing, respect for women's definition of the solution, and awareness of the impact of the political—can help guide interventions with these women.
The role of interest in optimizing performance and self-regulation

Abstract The present research tested the hypothesis that interest functions, in part, to optimize performance while also optimizing self-regulatory resources, and that this occurs when both affect- and value-related interest are high. Study 1 provided evidence that both affect- and value-related interest support task performance such that undergraduates (N = 153) in the high task importance condition, who also reported high affect-related interest, demonstrated relatively superior performance on a word-forming problem set. Study 2 (N = 88) provided further evidence that affect- and value-related interest were associated with superior anagram performance. A subsequent task demonstrated that self-regulatory resources were optimized for participants with both high affect- and value-related interest. The present studies provide evidence that high levels of performance can be achieved while maintaining optimal self-regulatory resources, depending on affect-related interest and the task's personal significance. Implications for goal pursuit and self-regulation are discussed.