cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of in-plane and out-of-plane misorientation on the ferroelectric properties of thin film ferroelectric PZT infrared sensors on Si substrates

Abstract Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 (PZT) , a promising material for uncooled infrared detection, is an anisotropic perovskite with the best pyroelectric effect observed along the c-axis. Although c-axis orientated PZT films can be easily obtained on single crystal substrates with minimal lattice mismatch, it remains a challenge in practical cases when they must be grown on non-textured polymer based sacrificial coatings over Si substrates. To address this issue, we have been focused on development of thin textured MgO templates on non-textured substrates, such as amorphous SiO 2 /Si and polymer coated SiO 2 /Si, using an ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD) technique. C-axis-oriented multi-layered LaNiO 3 /Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 /LaNiO 3 have been achieved and the ferroelectric properties, that impact the figure of merit for IR sensors, have been characterized. Keywords: ferroelectric, ion beam assisted deposition, texturing template, and infrared detectors. 1. Introduction Infrared (IR) detection has been extensively investigated ever since the discovery of IR radiation about two hundred years ago. It has wide usage in both commercial and military applications. The IR spectrum can be divided into short-wave IR (SWIR) (1 to 3 µm), medium-wave IR (MWIR) (3 to 5 µm), long-wave IR (LWIR) (8 to 12 µm), and very-long-wave IR (VLWIR) (> 12 µm). Besides many civilian related applications, large format IR focal plane arrays (IRFPAs) at 12-18 µm are very useful in detecting cold objects such as ballistic missiles in midcourse. VLWIR sensors are very important in strategic missile defenses and space applications. Such needs have been the driving force for research and development of IRFPAs in the LWIR and VLWIR spectra. There are two classes of IR detectors: cooled and uncooled based on different mechanisms of IR detection. Most cooled IR detectors are photodetectors so the materials used for these detectors have a semiconductor band gap that falls into the infrared range. The uncooled IR detectors, on the other hand, employ quite different mechanisms from their cooled counterparts and most uncooled IR detectors studied so far are either bolometers or ferroelectric/pyroelectric. A ferroelectric infrared (IR) detector, such as the thin film ferroelectric (TFFE) device, has a multilayer structure including layers for top and bottom electrodes, ferroelectric, mechanical supporting, and sacrificial-that will be removed later to form a suspended structure [1]. The quality of the ferroelectric film, such as phase purity, is critical to the overall performance of the TFFE IR sensors. Among several others, Pb(Zr,Ti)O
A triggered spark gap for discharging spark chambers

Abstract A compact, simple, internally triggered spark gap for discharging spark chambers is described. The pulse on the spark chamber provides the trigger spark by charging a capacitor formed by the trigger electrode, one of the two main electrodes, and an alumina dielectric until a surface breakdown occurs across the dielectric. The unit provides delay times of 15 to 100 nsec with jitter times of several nsec and has a life of the order of a million pulses when discharging 20 000 pF from 10 kV.
Toward Defining the Human Parotid Gland Salivary Proteome and Peptidome: Identification and Characterization Using 2D SDS−PAGE, Ultrafiltration, HPLC, and Mass Spectrometry†

Saliva plays many biological roles, from lubrication and digestion to regulating bacterial and leukocyte adhesion. To understand the functions of individual components and families of molecules, it is important to identify as many salivary proteins as possible. Toward this goal, we used a proteomic approach as the first step in a global analysis of this important body fluid. We collected parotid saliva as the ductal secretion from three human donors and separated the protein components by two-dimensional SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D SDS−PAGE). Proteins in gel spots were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting, and the results were confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry of selected peptides. Complementing this approach we used ultrafiltration to prepare a low-molecular-weight fraction of parotid saliva, which was analyzed directly or after reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography separation by using mass spectrometric approaches. MS analyses of 2D SDS−PAGE spots revealed known c...
EXPLAINING COMFORT WITH HOMOSEXUALITY AMONG SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS: THE IMPACT OF DEMOGRAPHIC, CONTEXTUAL, AND ATTITUDINAL FACTORS

While recent research explores the determinants of homophobia among college students, only a few studies look at the perceptions of homosexuals among social work students. Unfortunately these rare studies generally present a modest list of predictor variables or small sample sizes. To address this gap, this research explores the ways in which undergraduate social work students (N=748) from 12 colleges feel about homosexuality. In doing so, the work initially delineates the extent to which future social workers feel comfortable being around gay and lesbian persons. The work then explores the impact of specific social statuses, educational processes, and ideological beliefs. In the end, the role of homosexual peers is emphasized, as are the effects of familial attitudes, the perceived cause of homosexuality, conservative religious maxims, traditional gender role beliefs, and anxieties over AIDS.
Low-temperature properties of a dense charged bose gas

Abstract The zero-temperature excitation spectrum Ek of a dense charged Bose gas with mass M and charge e is combined with Landau's quasiparticle model to derive the thermodynamic functions at low temperature. The finite long-wavelength limit ℏ −1 E 0 = Ω 0 (the plasma frequency) implies that the normal-fluid density ϱn(T) and the specific heat both vanish like exp ( −ℏΩ 0 k B T ) as T → 0. A microscopic calculation with the Bogolyubov approximation gives the low-temperature correction to the depletion n′(T) − n′(0) = 3 2 M −1 ϱ n (T) . The transverse current j(q) induced by a transverse vector potential A(q) is evaluated in the same Bogolyubov approximation. For the two cases examined (long wavelengths at T ⩾ 0 and short wavelengths at T = 0, j(q) reduces to the London form − ϱ − ϱ n T e 2 M 2 c A q . Nonlocal contributions to the zero-temperature integral kernel K(x − x′) are of order n′ n and hence small in the high-density limit.
Hypertension: spironolactone and resistant hypertension.

True resistant hypertension is relatively frequent, yet effective treatment is often difficult to identify. In a new study, de Souza and colleagues demonstrate the potent blood pressure lowering effect of low-dose spironolactone in patients with evident resistant hypertension. This finding should have broad clinical implications in the effective management of a notoriously challenging condition.
New formulation of restricted growth processes

We present a new formulation of a class of growth models-those which evolve according to an exclusion process. This formulation is based upon a transformation of the probability distribution function which involves Grassmann variables. This method is very general and enables one to derive an exact stochastic differential equation for the model of interest. We describe this method using the “traffic” model as an example.
Fatal posterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

Objective: We would like to describe a case report of posterior ischemic optic neuropathy (PION) misdiagnosed as arteritic PION with presumed GCA which leads to missing the correct diagnosis with fatal outcome.Methods: The clinical course of a single patient will be described including presentation, testing,diagnosis and treatment.Results: An 82-year-old male patient presented with headache and temporal tenderness and mildly elevated ESR and was treated with steroids for presumed diagnosis of GCA. He developed progressive visual loss to NLP in the left eye while on steroids. MRI Brain and orbit showed enhanced mass at orbital apex misdiagnosed as incidental meningioma. Endoscopic biopsy was done and the pathology exam showed aspergillosis.The patient later died after he developed aspergillosis fungal meningitis with subsequent multiple brain infarcts despite appropriate antifungal treatment.Conclusion: Over-diagnosis of Giant cell arteritis and unwise use of steroids in elderly without appropriate work-up...
Development and loss of tolerance to the effects of ethanol on DRL performance of rats

Six male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained on a DRL-20 operant schedule for food presentation. When stable performance was established, they were exposed to an escalating regimen of daily ethanol administration (1.125–3.75 g/kg. IP). This dosing regimen continued until the maximally tolerable dose for each subject was reached. Tolerance loss then was monitored for approximately 6 months by periodic ethanol challenge doses (1.5 g/kg). Dose-effect curves (DECs) were obtained prior to (DEC-1), immediately after (DEC-2), and 6 months following termination of (DEC-3) the ethanol exposure. Rate-increasing effects (DEC-1) were noted at low doses (0.75 and 1.125 g/kg), with a higher dose (2.25 g/kg) resulting in a decreased rate of responding. Tolerance, following chronic ethanol exposure, developed to both the rate-increasing and ratedecreasing effects of ethanol (DEC-2). While some tolerance was lost within the 6 months following the daily ethanol exposure (DEC-3), a significant degree of tolerance was still indicated by most of the response measures. This duration of tolerance was considerably longer than that generally reported, and is probably attributable to persistent learned compensatory behavior and/or intermittent ethanol challenge tests.
Sterol composition and phytosterol utilization and metabolism in the milkweed bug

Analysis of the sterols of the milkweed bug,Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dallas) and dietary sunflowerseeds revealed that there is little, if any, conversion of dietary C28 or C29 phytosterols to cholesterol in this phytophagous insect. The dietary sterols are apparently utilized with little alteration both during development to the adult stage and egg production, and cholesterol comprises <1% of the sterols in either adult males and females or in the eggs. The significance of these findings are discussed in light of the recent discovery that the C28-ecdysone, makisterone A, is the predominant molting hormone in the enbryonated egg of the milkweed bug.
I give up! Five factors that contribute to the abandonment of information management strategies

In this paper, we present initial findings from a six-month study involving qualitative interviews on the topic of project-related personal information management. Specifically, we report on the emergent theme of information management strategy abandonment - that is, what factors in particular might cause people to give up on their systems for managing documents, calendars, email, and other sorts of project information. In exploring the recurrence of this theme throughout the interview data, five factors emerged as particularly compelling and frequently-cited reasons for system abandonment: (1) visibility, (2) integration, (3) co-adoption, (4) scalability, and (5) return on investment. We describe each of these factors in turn, using examples from the interviews for illustration. These findings, though preliminary in nature, provide a starting point for understanding why systems fail and how future systems might be designed to improve their success rate.
Triphosphopyridine nucleotide photoreduction with cell-free preparations of Anabaena variabilis.

Abstract The photoreduction of TPN + by cell-free preparations of the blue-green alga, Anabaena variabilis , has been studied in detail. A convenient and thorough removal from the chlorophyll-containing particles of the accessory pigment, phycocyanin, and of the soluble enzymes required for TNP + photoreduction has been achieved with sucrose density-gradient centrifugation. Ferredoxin and ferredoxin-TPN + reductase (TPNH: ferredoxin oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.99.4) have been purified from A. variabilis and compared with the analogous enzymes from spinach. The reduction of TPN + with electrons from water or from reduced indophenol has been characterized with regard to light-intensity response and requirement for Mg 2+ .
Soil Initialization Strategy for Use in Limited-Area Weather Prediction Systems

AbstractThree diverse methods of initializing soil moisture and temperature in limited-area numerical weather prediction models are compared and assessed through the use of nonstandard surface observations to identify the approach that best combines ease of implementation, improvement in forecast skill, and realistic estimations of soil parameters. The first method initializes the limited-area model soil prognostic variables by a simple interpolation from a parent global model that is used to provide the lateral boundary conditions for the forecasts, thus ensuring that the limited-area model’s soil field cannot evolve far from the host model. The second method uses the soil properties generated by a previous limited-area model forecast, allowing the soil moisture to evolve over time to a new equilibrium consistent with the regional model’s hydrological cycle. The third method implements a new local soil moisture variational analysis system that uses screen-level temperature to adjust the soil water conten...
The History of Disability Services in Higher Education.

In parallel with educational, social, technological, and legal changes in higher education, disability services has evolved rapidly, with professionals addressing increasingly complex issues on their campuses.
Cytoplasmic microtubules in transformed mouse × nontransformed human cell hybrids: Correlation with in vitro growth

Patterns of cytoplasmic microtubules in somatic cell hybrids between transformed mouse cells and nontransformed human skin fibroblasts were examined using antitubulin antibodies as an immunofluorescent probe. Nontransformed cells have been shown to exhibit an extensive cytoplasmic microtubule complex (CMTC), while in transformed cells, this complex is greatly diminished. The hybrid populations contained both types of cells. In addition, they contained cells with previously undescribed intermediate CMTC phenotypes. The percentage of each phenotype present in hybrid populations was determined for sixteen hybrid clones. Seven clones were found which appeared transformed on the basis of their CMTC pattern. The others were comprised of various proportions of all the cell types described. Repeated quantitation of the proportions of these types in the hybrid populations showed them to be stable with time in culture. Growth in vitro of the hybrid clones was assayed by determining their saturation densities, their plating efficiencies on plastic and their colony-forming abilities in soft agar. In vitro growth of a cell population was found to be directly proportional to the percentage of cells in the population which showed the greatly diminished CMTC pattern which has been described for transformed cells. This is strong evidence that a greatly reduced CMTC is associated with transformed behavior, especially the increased capacity of transformed cells for in vitro growth.
School mobility and student achievement in an urban setting

Many studies show negative relationships between school or geographic mobility and school achievement. However, two longitudinal studies show no relationship between mobility and subsequent achievement when prior achievement is controlled. The present study replicates both findings among 764 sixth-grade students in a mobile school district in New York City, with mobility defined by school changes, achievement assessed with standardized tests and age - grade progress, and eligibility for free or reduced price lunches (an economic indicator) controlled. Total mobility was related to sixth-grade achievement when earlier achievement was not controlled, but mobility after third grade was not related to sixth-grade achievement when third-grade achievement was controlled. Some authors suggest that a third variable, such as family background, accounts for both mobility and achievement. We provide evidence for a different explanation. Early mobility (prior to third grade) was a more potent predictor of sixth-grade achievement than later mobility. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
THE VACUUM BELL FOR TREATMENT OF PECTUS EXCAVATUM: AN EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR CONSERVATIVE THERAPY

Pectus Excavatum (PE) is the most common chest wall malformation and one of the most frequent major congenital anomalies, occurring in approximately 1 in every 300 births (1). In more than 85% of infants, the defect is already noticeable at birth. A later onset may be observed in patients with Marfan syndrome. Until the end of the last century, operations to correct PE deformities were largely based on the technique described by Ravitch (2). In 1998, a new technique of minimally invasive repair of PE (MIRPE) was first described by D. Nuss (3) to avoid several operative features of the modified Ravitch repair procedure. Today, the MIRPE technique is well established and represents a common used technique (4-9). The short operating time, smaller incisions and considerably less dissection has made the MIRPE procedure very appealing both to surgeons and patients, thereby resulting in a large increase of the number of patients requesting operative treatment, and consequently in an increase of the number of PE repairs. However, with the widespread use of the MIRPE procedure the character and number of complications has increased (4, 6-8, 10-12) (Table 1 and 2). Above all, recent studies report on an increasing number of near fatal complications (12-18). Additionally, in many cases of PE, the degree of pectus deformity does not immediately warrant surgery, yet patients may benefit from some type of nonsurgical treatment. Other patients are reluctant to undergo surgery because of the pain associated with postoperative recovery and the risk of imperfect results. Due to these facts, the introduction of the vacuum bell for conservative treatment of PE has made this alternative therapy a focus of interest of patients. The procedure of applying a vacuum to elevate the sternum was first used more than 100 years ago [19]. Despite the risks and unsatisfactory results after operative therapy for some patients, there has been little progress in the therapeutic use of the vacuum therapy during the last few decades. In the meantime, materials have improved and the vacuum devices can now exert strong forces. Our initial results using this method proved to be promising (20). Today, we report our ongoing experience using the vacuum bell for conservative treatment of PE. Note that a subset of these patients (the first 34 patients) was reported previously [20].
Molecular interaction maps as information organizers and simulation guides

A graphical method for mapping bioregulatory networks is presented that is suited for the representation of multimolecular complexes, protein modifications, as well as actions at cell membranes and between protein domains. The symbol conventions defined for these molecular interaction maps are designed to accommodate multiprotein assemblies and protein modifications that can generate combinatorially large numbers of molecular species. Diagrams can either be “heuristic,” meaning that detailed knowledge of all possible reaction paths is not required, or “explicit,” meaning that the diagrams are totally unambiguous and suitable for simulation. Interaction maps are linked to annotation lists and indexes that provide ready access to pertinent data and references, and that allow any molecular species to be easily located. Illustrative interaction maps are included on the domain interactions of Src, transcription control of E2F-regulated genes, and signaling from receptor tyrosine kinase through phosphoinositides to Akt/PKB. A simple method of going from an explicit interaction diagram to an input file for a simulation program is outlined, in which the differential equations need not be written out. The role of interaction maps in selecting and defining systems for modeling is discussed.
ApoA-I secretion by rabbit intestinal mucosa cell cultures

Lipid and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I concentrations in different density fractions of New Zealand White (NZW) and Watanabe (WHHL) rabbit plasma were studied. Aside from the low plasma apoA-I and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in WHHL rabbits, the distribution of apoA-I was also different between the two rabbits. ApoA-I was concentrated in both the HDL2 and HDL3 fractions of NZW rabbits but was found primarily in the HDL3 fraction of WHHL rabbits. ApoA-I secretion in these two rabbits was further studiedin vitro by using intestinal and hepatocyte cell cultures. ApoA-I secretion was highest from cultures of the duodenum and the proximal end of the jejunum; whereas, cell cultures of the distal end of the small intestine secreted very little apoA-I into the medium. Intestinal cell cultures from WHHL rabbits secreted less, but significant amounts of, apoA-I compared to that of NZW rabbits. ApoA-I was most concentrated in the density range of 1.12–1.21 (HDL3) fraction in medium containing 10% fetal calf serum (FCS). Serum-free medium promoted apoA-I secretion by intestinal cell cultures that was mostly found in the d>1.21 (lipoprotein-deficient) fraction. Hepatocytes isolated from the same rabbits by collagenase perfusion secreted little apoA-I, and it was found only in the d>1.21 fraction. The addition of oleic acid into the culture medium with 10% FCS decreased the secretion of total apoA-I and HDL by intestinal cell cultures and increased the secretion of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL). The results indicate that intestinal cells, not hepatocytes, are responsible for the secretion of apoA-I and HDL3 in rabbits, and that the secretion may be regulated under different nutritional conditions.
Multistable selection equations of pattern formation type in the case of inhomogeneous growth rates: With applications to two-dimensional assignment problems

Abstract We study the stability of solutions of a particular type of multistable selection equations proposed by Starke, Schanz and Haken in the case of an inhomogeneous spectrum of growth parameters. We determine how the stability of feasible solutions depends on the inhomogeneity of the spectrum. We show that the strength of the competitive interaction between feasible solutions can act as a control parameter that induces bifurcations reducing the degree of multistability.
Restricting asylum: Trends and prospects

Abstract The dramatic rise in asylum applications in industrialized countries during the last decade has resulted in the development of an increasingly restrictive asylum regime. The tools these countries have devised for containing and deterring asylum claims—the concepts of Safe Countries of Origin and Safe Third Countries, Manifestly Unfounded Applications, and numerous administrative measures which act as barriers to entry—are targeted specifically at nationals of countries most likely to produce refugees. Additional pre‐entry measures attempt to make the asylum route as difficult as possible through the use of visa requirements and carrier sanctions. For those asylum seekers who manage to make the journey despite these obstacles, the administrative evaluation of their claims is accelerated, the legal procedures shortened, and the opportunities for appeal reduced. In addition, governments are increasingly resorting to bilateral agreements to ensure the readmission of rejected asylum seekers into the c...
"Smite this Sleeping World Awake": Edward Burne-Jones and The Legend of the Briar Rose

Challenging entrenched preconceptions about the supposed escapism and conservatism of Edward Burne-Jones's art, this paper seeks to establish his monumental painted series, "The Legend of the Briar Rose," as a fundamentally radical and confrontational work. Critics have long viewed it as an endorsement of sleepy stasis, antithetical to the political activism espoused by his friend William Morris. By unraveling the intertwining themes of the series -- the transformative dream vision, artistic labor, the decorative mode, and social egalitarianism -- the "Briar Rose" series is revealed instead to be dramatization of the struggle for personal, social, artistic, and even environmental awakening.
Extracellular matrix proteins and astrocyte-derived soluble factors influence the differentiation and proliferation of adult neural progenitor cells.

To control the differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs), the synergistic influence of topography, extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, and soluble factors were investigated. Previously, in our laboratory, astrocyte-derived soluble factors were found to promote differentiation of adult hippocampal progenitor cells (AHPCs) into neurons when grown on a laminin substrate (Oh et al., J Biomed Mater Res A 2009;91:575–585). Here, we determined that the ECM protein on which AHPCs are cultured does not seem to alter this neurogenic effect or the differentiation of AHPCs when grown alone. However, AHPCs cultured on ECL (a combination of entactin, collagen, and laminin) in the presence of soluble factors from hippocampal astrocytes, differentiated into a significantly greater percentage of oligodendrocytes (∼34% on ECL vs. ∼19% on laminin). Furthermore, a concomitant decrease in the percentage of proliferating cells was observed on the ECL (∼38% on ECL vs. ∼55% on laminin). In addition, the increase in AHPC differentiation into oligodendrocytes on ECL occurred only in the presence of soluble factors from astrocytes, and not when AHPCs were cultured alone. Finally, we demonstrated that micro-scale topography did not influence the phenotypic differentiation in all conditions tested. These results show that a combination of astrocyte-derived soluble factors and ECM can dramatically affect the differentiation and proliferation of NPCs. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010
Potential Validity of Conducting Research on Headache in Internet Populations

Objective.—While it is technically feasible to conduct migraine research on the Internet, can one be sure that the subjects who participate actually have the disorder? We examined this issue in 109 sequential subjects in an Internet study of migraineurs' symptoms. Background.—The increasing use of the Internet by the US population provides an opportunity for using this medium in clinical research, but, to be useful, the results of such research must be valid and generalizable. Methods.—Using postings to Internet newsgroups of migraineurs, we recruited subjects to a migraine research site. We examined reported symptoms by comparing them with the International Headache Society's criteria for diagnosis of migraine and by subjective review by a neurologist. We also attempted to contact the subject's primary care physicians to confirm their diagnosis. Results.—We found considerable evidence for the validity of the participants' self-reported diagnoses. Most subjects with professed migraine reported quality of pain (97%) and associated symptoms (92%) consistent with that diagnosis, and review of their symptoms and questionnaire responses by the neurologist suggested that almost all subjects (97%) had migraine. Personal physicians confirmed a diagnosis of migraine in 90% of con- senting subjects (n=49). Conclusions.—The validity of self-reported diagnosis of migraine does not appear to be an obstacle to conducting research in subject populations on the Internet.
XENOBIOTIC INTERACTIONS IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS: EFFECTS ON BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS

Abstract Interactions between xenobiotics may induce synergistic or antagonistic biological effects on aquatic vertebrates and invertebrates. These effects have been demonstrated in terms of altered mortality. behavior, physiology, and cellular and subcellular structure. Nevertheless, knowledge of interactions between xenobiotics in aquatic life and their biological consequences is not extensive and large gaps exist. Moreover, in some cases, serious questions can be raised about whether antagonism or synergism was actually demonstrated on the basis of the data presented. Clearly, an expansion of our present understanding of xenobiotic interactions and their biological effects is of critical importance in assesing the impact of xenobiotics on aquatic life.
Effects of converting enzyme inhibition and α receptor blockade on the angiotensin pressor response in the American alligator

This study examines the effects of two converting enzyme inhibitors (captopril and enalaprilat) and two alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonists (phentolamine and phenoxybenzamine) on the pressor response produced by exogenous angiotensin I ([Asp1, Val5, Ser9] ANG I, fowl) and [Val5] angiotensin II (ANG II) in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). Bolus administration of ANG I at 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 micrograms/kg; ANG II at 0.05, 0.1, and 0.5 micrograms/kg; or norepinephrine (NE) at 2 micrograms/kg elicited dose-dependent increases in arterial blood pressure. Captopril (0.5 mg/kg/hr) and enalaprilat (300 micrograms/kg/hr) significantly reduced the response to ANG I, but not ANG II or NE. Both phenoxybenzamine (0.25 mg/kg/min) and phentolamine (1 mg/kg/hr) effectively blocked the NE pressor response (84 and 88%, respectively) and attenuated (42-80%) the pressor effects of ANG I and ANG II. These results support previous work suggesting the alligator may possess a renin-angiotensin system with characteristics similar to those found in mammals and other vertebrates. In addition, the pressor response to exogenously administered ANG I and ANG II was attenuated by alpha adrenergic receptor blockade and thus may be due, in part, to secondary catecholamine release.
Fast Neutron Radiotherapy: The University of Washington Experience and Potential Use of Concomitant Boost with Boron Neutron Capture

Well defined, randomised clinical trials have demonstrated significant advantages for fast neutron radiotherapy over photon radiotherapy in locally advanced prostate cancer (10-year survival 46% vs 29%), salivary gland tumours (10-year local/regional control 56% vs 17%), and inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the lung (2-year survival 16% vs 3%). Fast neutron treatment of high grade brain tumours (astrocytomas/resulted in tumour sterilisation, but also caused significant brain injury. This effect was important, however, in that conventional radiation therapy, and other conventional treatments, have not demonstrated sterilisation of high grade astrocytomas at any dose. The treatment of cancer utilising 10 B and its neutron capture reaction (boron neutron capture therapy, or BNCT) may have potential to be effective in brain tumours and melanoma. Recent studies at the University of Washington have demonstrated that fast neutron radiotherapy cell kill can be significantly enhanced by the boron capture reaction utilising the thermal component of our fast neutron beam. This enhancement can increase cell kill between 10 and 100 fold. The implications for concomitant BNCT/fast neutron therapy with new 10 B carriers will be discussed with emphasis on high grade brain tumours.
Effects of systemic morphine on lamina I spinothalamic tract neurons in the cat

Lamina I spinothalamic tract (STT) neurons are an integral component of the central representation of pain and temperature and thus their sensitivity to various analgesics needs to be examined. In the present study, the effects of successive, cumulative doses (0.125-2.0 mg/kg) of intravenous morphine sulfate on the quantitative stimulus-response properties of nociceptive lamina I STT cells have been tested in the intact, barbiturate-anesthetized cat. Both nociceptive-specific (n = 7) and multireceptive (heat, pinch and cold sensitive; n = 7) lamina I STT cells were inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. Parallel dose-dependent effects on responses to noxious heat and pinch were generally observed that reduced ongoing discharge levels and the slopes of the stimulus-response functions. However, non-STT lamina I cells (n = 5) differed significantly; the responses of one multireceptive (heat, pinch and cold-sensitive) cell and the responses to pinch of 3 of 4 wide dynamic range cells were not inhibited. In addition, two-thirds of the nociceptive lamina I STT cells showed enhanced responses at the lowest dose of morphine (0.125 mg/kg). These results contrast with the varied effects of morphine reported for superficial dorsal horn cells with uncharacterized projections and they support the role of lamina I STT cells in pain. Furthermore, these observations are consistent with previous findings indicating that lamina I STT neurons are a distinct subpopulation of lamina I cells. These results support previous evidence that opiatergic modulation of sensory activity in lamina I is functionally organized.
Comeback kids: CD8 + suppressor T cells are back in the game

A cardinal feature of the immune system is its capacity to distinguish self from nonself, a property referred to as immunological self-tolerance. Breakdown of the immune mechanisms that normally maintain self-tolerance is a factor contributing to the etiology of many human diseases, including type 1 diabetes (T1D) and MS. Devising means to promote self-tolerance while maintaining effective immune defenses against infectious agents and cancer has been a goal of immunologists ever since the pioneering studies by Medewar and colleagues on immune tolerance (1). Immune tolerance is normally maintained by both central mechanisms, which are active during lymphocyte development in central lymphoid organs (2), and peripheral mechanisms, which are active after lymphocyte emigration to peripheral lymphoid organs (3). Developing T cells in the thymus undergo a rigorous selection process that purges potentially harmful T cells through a process known as negative selection. Through positive selection, the thymus promotes survival of T cells that recognize antigens in the context of the MHC molecules expressed by the individual, a phenomenon referred to as self-MHC restriction. However, due to the delicate balance between the need for self-MHC restriction and elimination of potentially harmful T cells, a substantial proportion of T cells with low or intermediate affinity for self-antigens manage to escape to the periphery. These potentially harmful T cells are normally kept in check by a variety of peripheral tolerance mechanisms, including the induction of unresponsiveness, regulation by immunosuppressive cytokines, and suppression by Tregs (3). Although early studies on T cell suppression focused on cells expressing CD8, studies in recent years have centered on CD4+CD25+ Tregs and NKT cells (4). However, in this issue of the JCI, Jiang and colleagues now show that CD8+ suppressor T cells have a role in maintaining self-tolerance in humans and provide a potential means to harness these cells for therapeutic purposes (5).
Temperature optima of mammalian and amphibian viruses in cell cultures of homeothermic and poikilothermic origin.

The effect of incubation temperature on the growth of the mammalian viruses HSV and vaccinia and the amphibian viruses FV-1 and LT-1 was studied in cell cultures of mammalian, avian and reptilian origin. Unlike the mammalian (monkey) and avian (chick) cells, cells of the reptilian cell line TH-1A multiplied at optimal rates at 23°C and 30°C but did not multiply at 36° C. Despite the different temperature optima of the host cells studied, the mammalian viruses replicated at maximum rates at 36° C and the amphibian viruses replicated at maximum rates at 23° C in each host cell type. At the intermediate temperature of 30° C near maximal rates of replication of both amphibian and mammalian viruses were usually observed. However, at this temperature the turtle cell line TH-1A supported reduced rates of replication of both the “warm optimum” vaccinia virus and the“cool optimum” LT-1 and FV-1 viruses. The results suggest that the viral genome is the major determinant of the temperature required for synthesis of a given virus, but the host cell may influence the finer limits of the temperature range supporting replication.
An approach toward azacycles using photochemical and radical cyclizations of N-alkenyl substituted 5-thioxopyrrolidin-2-ones.

The photochemical reactions of a series of cyclic N-alkenyl-substituted thioimides have been examined. Irradiation of N-3-methylbut-3-enyl-5-thioxo-pyrrolidin-2-one (16) results in intramolecular [2 + 2] cycloaddition to give the highly strained thietane 17, whose structure was confirmed on the basis of its X-ray analysis. Treatment of cycloadduct 17 with dimethyl(methylthio)sulfonium tetrafluoroborate gave 2,5,6,7-tetrahydropyrrolizin-3-one (20) in good yield. Further reduction of 20 with Raney-Ni afforded 5,5-dimethylhexahydro-pyrrolizin-1-one (21). This sequence of reactions demonstrates the facility with which the 2 + 2 photoadduct can be converted into the pyrrolizidine alkaloid core skeleton. The photochemistry of the closely related N-butenyl thioxopyrrolidin-one (22) proceeded in a slightly different fashion and produced 7-mercaptomethyl tetrahydropyrrolizin-3-one (24) in 68% yield. In contrast to the above results, irradiation of the thioxaphthalimido system containing an N-cycloalkenyl group in ...
Hemodynamics of Aorta-to-Coronary Artery Bypass: Experimental and Analytical Studies

Abstract Aorta-to-coronary artery vein bypass was accomplished in 15 dogs. Flow in the graft and proximal coronary artery was measured with an electromagnetic flowmeter. The partition of flow was found to be dependent on (I) the graft-to-artery diameter ratio (D g /D a ) and (2) the degree of stenosis present in the proximal coronary artery. With an unobstructed proximal coronary artery, small grafts (D g /D a g /D a ≥ 2.0) carried 95.1% of the total flow. When a short, 50% stenosis was placed on the proximal coronary artery, the graft always carried more than 90% of the total flow. Simple calculations based on Poiseuille's law provide results which agree closely with the experimental data. These data imply that thrombosis of the proximal coronary segment may well be expected following aorta-to-coronary artery bypass due to the small amount of flow in this vessel. Experimental data and calculations show that the velocity of graft flow decreased as the D g /D a ratio increased. With a D g /D a ratio decrease from 3.0 to 1.5, the graft velocity rose by as much as 320%. This indicates that in clinical coronary bypass there may be considerable advantage in using a small-diameter bypass vessel (either distal saphenous vein or internal mammary artery) to insure a higher velocity flow through the graft.
An opponent-process interpretation of postshock bursts in appetitive responding

While eight food-deprived rats pressed a lever for food during daily 1-h sessions, four CS-Shock2 trials were presented. Trials were preceded by either a Shock1 of .25, .50, .75 mA or no Shock1. It was found that the rate of appetitive responding during the CS was greater on Shock1-CS-Shock2 trials relative to CS-Shock2 trials. The data indicate that the phenomenon of postshock bursts in responding can occur in the absence of a signal for safety after shock. The results conform to the predictions of the opponent-process theory of motivation.
Monozygous twins with a microdeletion syndrome involving BTK, DDP1, and two other genes; evidence of intact dendritic cell development and TLR responses.

We report for the first time monozygous twins with a microdeletion syndrome involving genes coding for Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (Btk) and deafness-dystonia peptide 1 (DDP1), and two other genes. Apart from its essential role in B cell development, Btk is indicated to affect signaling mediated by toll like receptors (TLRs) and development of dendritic cells (DCs) but results are conflictive. The twins revealed normal numbers of plasmacytoid and myeloid DCs (pDCs and mDCs). Moreover, BTK null cells from these patients exhibited robust responses to TLR agonists, normal natural killer (NK) cell activity, and normal pDC functions.
Unusual case of general pulp calcification (pulp stones) in a young Greek girl

An unusual case of generalized pulp calcification is reported in a 14-year-old Greek girl. Radiographic examination revealed large pulp stones in all permanent teeth located in the pulp chamber and sometimes extending to the coronal portion of the root canal. The patient's dental, medical and family history, as well as the findings from the clinical examination were non-contributory. Biochemical analysis of one pulp stone removed from the right maxillary central incisor revealed large amounts of urates, proteins and phospholipids, but a blood test of the patient showed no metabolic disturbance. Therefore, it is suggested that this unusual case may be of idiopathic origin.
Normal Modes of the World Ocean. Part I. Design of a Finite-Element Barotropic Model

Abstract The linearized primitive equations for a barotropic world ocean are discretized by means of first-order, piecewise-linear finite elements. Surface elevation and Stokes/Helmholtz velocity potentials are adopted as dependent variables. On any segment of the ocean boundary, specification of elevation and simple radiation are allowed as alternative conditions. The discretized mass and momentum equations are designed to make the finite-element solution satisfy global energy balance exactly. They also permit an arbitrary choice of axes at each node of the grid and thereby avoid the “pole” problem. The model is tested by applying it to a rotating rectangular basin and to a domain consisting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Smooth Limits of Piecewise-Linear Approximations

Abstract We consider particular types of discrete approximations to tensor fields on manifolds suggested by triangulations. The approximations are objects of finite geometrical extent, parameterized by a finite set of numbers, so they are suitable for numerical computations. We study the limiting behaviour of sequences of approximations and construct the theory so that the limits are tensor fields on the manifold. We propose a Cauchy criterion for our approximations, which guarantees convergence to a limit. The specific examples include geodesic approximation to Riemannian and pseudo-Riemannian manifolds.
Interpretation of Isopotential Surface Maps in Patients with Ostium Primum and Secundum Atrial Defects

The purpose of this study was to determine if there were consistent differentiating patterns in body surface potential maps in children with normal hearts and in those with ostium primum versus ostium secundum atrial septal defects. A second purpose was to interpret the isopotential surface maps in terms of the position of intracardiac electrical wave fronts. Body surface activity throughout QRS demonstrated three major intervals: developing, transitional, and declining potentials. Patients with both types of atrial septal defects demonstrated complex distributions (multiple maxima) during the transitional interval which were not encountered in normal subjects. In the primum group, the distribution of positive and negative potentials sequentially changed in an inverted pattern as compared to the pattern in those patients with secundum defects. Furthermore, during the transitional interval the potential distribution was considerably more complex in the primum group. In two additional patients, body surface maps were helpful in clarifying misleading and atypical conventional electrocardiograms. The presence of simultaneous multiple maxima could only be accounted for by the existence of multiple wave fronts simultaneously present within the heart. In particular the emergence of two widely separated anterior chest maxima in patients with secundum atrial defect indicated the simultaneous presence of prominent left and right ventricular wave fronts. Also, the marked differences in the relative positions of the major body surface maximum and minimum could be accounted for only by considerable differences in the position and extent of intracardiac wave fronts. For example, the target distribution, consisting of an isolated minimum surrounded by multiple maxima and positive potentials over the upper body, in the ostium primum patients, indicated epicardial breakthrough in a wave front positioned in the anterosuperior portion of the heart. In contrast, normal subjects and patients with secundum defect had distributions indicating antero-inferior wave front position at the time of right ventricular epicardial breakthrough.
Differences in the Development Response of the European Corn Borer Reared on Corn Plant vs. Meridic Diet Under Greenhouse Conditions

The development rates of corn borer larvae, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubn.), feeding on corn plants and meridic diet under greenhouse conditions were compared. Regression analysis of the data showed that the diet-reared borers developed faster than the corn-reared borers while exposed to the same number of degree days. Explanations for the difference between the two rearing treatments. the models used in the analysis, and the practical implications of the results for laboratory research of the corn borer and its parasitoids are discussed.
Ion beam synthesis of magnetic Co–Pt alloys in Al2O3

Abstract Ion implantation followed by thermal processing has been used to synthesize nanoparticles of cobalt–platinum (Co–Pt) alloys in single-crystal Al2O3. Several phases, including CoPt in the L10 structure, Co3Pt, and CoPt3 that has the L12 structure, are selectively formed by varying the atomic ratio of implanted Co and Pt. These alloys are crystallographically oriented with respect to the host Al2O3 matrix, exhibiting multiple distinct orientations. Rutherford backscattering and X-ray diffraction have been used to study the influence of the processing conditions, including temperature and dose, on the formation of the alloys. The degree of chemical ordering in the L10 and L12 phases is not high and it is not improved significantly with long annealing times. Magnetization studies have been conducted using a SQUID magnetometer. Coercivities as high as 14.2 kOe (9.7 kOe) at 5 K with the field normal (parallel) to the surface have been measured, and they remain significant at room temperature and above. The coercivity is a function of the Pt fraction in the alloy.
Initiation factor preparations from poliovirus-infected cells restrict translation in reticulocyte lysates

Abstract The translation of poliovirus RNA and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) mRNAs was studied in reticulocyte lysates supplemented with uninfected HeLa cell or polio-infected HeLa cell ribosomal salt wash as a source of initiation factors. Ribosomal salt wash from uninfected HeLa cells supported translation of both RNAs. Similar preparations from polio-infected HeLa cells stimulated translation of polio RNA; however, the translation of VSV mRNAs was completely restricted. Lysates programmed simultaneously with polio RNA and VSV mRNA translated both RNAs, although VSV translation was predominant. Addition of polio-infected cell ribosomal salt wash resulted in translation of polio RNA exclusively. The infected cell salt wash did not prevent formation of 40 S·Met-tRNA f Met complexes, but did prevent binding of labeled VSV mRNA to 40 S initiation complexes. The ability to restrict VSV mRNA translation resided in the 40% ammonium sulfate fractional precipitate prepared from infected cell salt wash. Similar fractionation of ribosomal salt wash mixed with labeled poliovirus double-stranded RNA indicated that this component was also found in the 40% ammonium sulfate fraction. The effects on translation of double-stranded RNA and the restrictive activity of infected cell salt wash were compared: mRNA specificity, kinetics of inhibition, nuclease sensitivity, and relief of inhibition by excess double-stranded RNA differed. From these comparisons, the possibility that double-stranded RNA caused the restriction of VSV mRNA translation was excluded.