cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chronic Toxicity of Nitrogen Dioxide: II. Effect on Histopathology of Lung Tissue

Mice exposed to 0.5 ppM NO/sub 2/ for 6, 18, or 24 h/d for 3, 6, 9, or 12 months showed expanded alveoli with greatest degree after 12 months. This condition was not due to septal breakage. There was early bronchiolar infection with reduced distal airway size. Lesions were consistent with development of early focal emphysema.
Astrophysically relevant radiation hydrodynamics experiment at the National Ignition Facility

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is capable of creating new and novel high-energy-density (HED) systems relevant to astrophysics. Specifically, a system could be created that studies the effects of a radiative shock on a hydrodynamically unstable interface. These dynamics would be relevant to the early evolution after a core-collapse supernova of a red supergiant star. Prior to NIF, no HED facility had enough energy to perform this kind of experiment. The experimental target will include a 340 μm predominantly plastic ablator followed by a low-density SiO2 foam. The interface will have a specific, machined pattern that will seed hydrodynamic instabilities. The growth of the instabilities in a radiation-dominated environment will be observed. This experiment requires a ≥300 eV hohlraum drive and will be diagnosed using point projection pinhole radiography, which have both been recently demonstrated on NIF.
Systemic viral infections and their retinal and choroidal manifestations

Viruses are one of the most common causes of infections involving the posterior segment of the eye. Such infections can occur either on a congenital or an acquired basis, and may affect primarily the retina or the choroid. Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) and rubella infections may result in retinitis. CMV retinitis is also the most common cause of acquired viral retinitis, primarily because of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Other types of viral retinitis, such as those caused by herpes simplex or herpes zoster, can occur in immunocompromised or immunocompetent individuals. Retinitis or choroiditis caused by viruses such as measles, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, and Rift Valley fever virus, typically occurs subsequent to an acute viral systemic illness. The systemic and ocular manifestations, as well as the histopathology, laboratory tests, differential diagnoses, and treatment regimens for each of the individual viruses are discussed in detail.
Dynamics and robustness for singular value decomposition: application to face recognition

Principal and Independent Component Analysis (PCA and ICA) are popular and powerful methods for approximation, regression, blind source separation and numerous other statistical tasks. These methods have inherent linearity assumptions that limit their applicability to globally estimate massive and realistic data sets in terms of a few parameters. Global description of such data sets requires more versatile nonlinear methods. Nonetheless, modification of PCA and ICA can be used in a variety of circumstances to discover the underlying non-linear features of the data set. Differential topology and Riemannian geometry have developed systematic methods for local-to-global integration of linearizable features. Numerical methods from approximation theory are applicable to provide a discrete and algorithmic adaptation of continuous topological methods. Such nonlinear descriptions have a far smaller number of parameters than the dimension of the feature space. In addition, it is possible to describe nonlinear relationship between such parameters. We present the mathematical framework for the extension of these methods to a robust estimate for non-linear PCA. We discuss the application of this technique to the study of the topology of the space of parameters in human image databases.
Mathematical description of the uptake of hydrocarbons in jet fuel into the stratum corneum of human volunteers

The objective of this research was to develop a mathematical description of uptake of aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons into the stratum corneum of human skin in vivo. A simple description based on Fick's laws of diffusion was used to predict the spatiotemporal variation of naphthalene, 1- and 2-methylnaphthalene, undecane, and dodecane in the stratum corneum of human volunteers. The estimated values of the diffusion coefficients for each chemical were comparable to values predicted using in vitro skin systems and biomonitoring studies. These results demonstrate the value of measuring dermal exposure using the tape-strip technique and the importance of quantifying of dermal uptake.
Self-Assembled Wiggling Nano-Structures and the Principle of Maximum Entropy Production

While behavior of equilibrium systems is well understood, evolution of nonequilibrium ones is much less clear. Yet, many researches have suggested that the principle of the maximum entropy production is of key importance in complex systems away from equilibrium. Here, we present a quantitative study of large ensembles of carbon nanotubes suspended in a non-conducting non-polar fluid subject to a strong electric field. Being driven out of equilibrium, the suspension spontaneously organizes into an electrically conducting state under a wide range of parameters. Such self-assembly allows the Joule heating and, therefore, the entropy production in the fluid, to be maximized. Curiously, we find that emerging self-assembled structures can start to wiggle. The wiggling takes place only until the entropy production in the suspension reaches its maximum, at which time the wiggling stops and the structure becomes quasi-stable. Thus, we provide strong evidence that maximum entropy production principle plays an essential role in the evolution of self-organizing systems far from equilibrium.
Frequency of XY sperm increases with age in fathers of boys with Klinefelter syndrome.

With increasing availability of drugs for impotence and advanced reproductive technologies for the treatment of subfertility, more men are fathering children at advanced ages. We conducted a study of the chromosomal content of sperm of healthy men aged 24–57 years to (a) determine whether father’s age was associated with increasing frequencies of aneuploid sperm including XY, disomy X, disomy Y, disomy 21, and sperm diploidy, and (b) examine the association between the frequencies of disomy 21 and sex-chromosomal aneuploidies. The study group consisted of 38 fathers of boys with Klinefelter syndrome (47, XXY) recruited nationwide, and sperm aneuploidy was assessed using multicolor X-Y-21 sperm FISH (∼10,000 sperm per donor). Paternal age was significantly correlated with the sex ratio of sperm (Y/X; P=.006) and with the frequency of XY sperm (P=.02), with a clear trend with age by decades (P<.006). Compared with fathers in their 20s (who had an average frequency of 7.5 XY sperm per 10,000), the frequencies of XY sperm were 10% higher among fathers in their 30s, 31% higher among those in their 40s, and 160% higher among those in their 50s (95% CI 69%–300%). However, there was no evidence for age effects on frequencies of sperm carrying nullisomy sex; disomies X, Y, or 21; or meiosis I or II diploidies. The frequencies of disomy 21 sperm were significantly associated with sex-chromosomal aneuploidy (P=.04)—in particular, with disomy X (P=.004), but disomy 21 sperm did not preferentially carry either sex chromosome. These findings suggest that older fathers produce higher frequencies of XY sperm, which may place them at higher risk of fathering boys with Klinefelter syndrome, and that age effects on sperm aneuploidy are chromosome specific.
K.T.P 532 laser in treatment of urethral strictures

We have had experience in the treatment of 20 patients with 22 strictures with this new laser that has a unique ability to cut and coagulate with minimal forward scatter to help prevent the formation of new scar tissue. All of the patients have had attempts of treatment of the strictures unsuccessfully in the past. The laser was effective in 68.2% of the patients to keep the urethra open and patent although the follow-up periods have been short at the time of this report ranging from six months to fourteen months. This new laser may have some promise in the treatment of urethral stricture disease.
Verbal Processes in a Labour/Management Negotiation:

The transcript of a labour/management negotiation was analysed using Stiles's verbal response modes (VRM) taxonomy to assess the value of general-purpose discourse analysis in studying negotiation processes. Temporal trends and labour/management differences in response mode use indicated that VRM coding successfully quantified important aspects of the negotiation. Comparisons were made between the results of VRM analysis and those of more specialised methods for analysis of discourse in negotiations.
Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Down-Regulates Bone Sialoprotein Gene Expression in Cementoblasts: Role of the Protein Kinase A Pathway*

PTH-related protein (PTHrP) acts as a paracrine and/or autocrine regulator of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation and is implicated in tooth development. The current studies employed cementoblasts to determine the role(s) and mechanisms of PTHrP in regulating cementum formation. Results demonstrated that PTHrP repressed gene expression and protein synthesis of bone sialoprotein (BSP) and abolished cementoblast-mediated biomineralization in vitro. The BSP gene inhibition required protein synthesis. The PTHrP analog (1-31) and other activators of the PKA pathway (3-isobutyl-1-methylxathine (IBMX), forskolin (FSK) and Sp-Adenosine-3', 5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Sp-cAMPss) also down-regulated BSP gene expression and blocked cementoblast-mediated biomineralization. In contrast, the PTHrP analog (7-34), a PTHrP antagonist, and the activators of the PKC pathway [phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu)] promoted BSP gene expression. In addition, the PKA pathway inhibitor (9-(2-tetrahydrofuryl) adenine (THFA) partially, but significantly reversed the PTHrP-mediated down-regulation of BSP gene expression. Furthermore, THFA alone significantly increased BSP messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in cementoblasts. In contrast, the inhibitor of the PKC pathway (GF109203X) did not reverse the PTHrP inhibitory effect on BSP gene expression. Furthermore, GF109203X alone dramatically reduced the BSP transcript levels. These data indicate that the cAMP/PKA pathway mediates the PTHrP-mediated down-regulation of BSP mRNA expression in cementoblasts; and furthermore, this pathway may, through an intrinsic inhibition mechanism, regulate the basal level of BSP mRNA expression. In contrast, the activation of PKC promotes BSP gene expression. These data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in PTHrP regulation of cementogenesis.
Cube recrystallization texture in warm deformed aluminum: understanding and prediction

Abstract The formation of cube {100}〈001〉 recrystallization texture was studied in warm plane-strain deformed aluminum. Recrystallization cube texture intensity increased from 4 to 200 times random, as the true strain was increased from 0.92 to 3.2. The increased cube was primarily due to larger numbers of recrystallized near cube grains, as cube grains had either no or very limited size advantage over grains of other orientations. The origin of cube nucleation was found in the partial stability of existing cube grains which produced thin bands of near-cube oriented deformed material and the lower stored energy of these cube bands. A simple geometrical model is proposed for the prediction of cube recrystallization texture in plane strain deformed f.c.c. metals. The model predicts the frequency of cube recrystallized grains as: NCdR/λC. NC is the number of cube grains per (effective) deformed cube band, dR is the recrystallized grain thickness and λC is the spacing between effective deformed cube bands — all measured along normal direction. NC values were, in material with a low predeformed cube grain frequency, proposed to be either 1 or 2, based on the deformed microstructure. The spacing, λC was obtained as (do/aC)(1/exp e), where do is the initial grain size, aC is the initial cube grain fraction and e is the true strain. This model was found to work extremely well for λC>dR in aluminum.
Chiroderma Doriae (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

Chiroderma doriae O. Thomas, 1891 is a phyllostomid commonly called the Brazilian big-eyed bat. A brown bat with striking facial and dorsal stripes, it is the 2nd largest of the 5 species in the genus Chiroderma. It is endemic to southeastern Brazil with a single record from bordering Paraguay. C. doriae occurs in Atlantic Rain Forest, as well as in a variety of primary and secondary forests and even occasionally in urban parklands. It apparently specializes on wild figs. C. doriae is classified as vulnerable. DOI: 10.1644/816.1.
Establishing green roof infrastructure through environmental policy instruments

Traditional construction practices provide little opportunity for environmental remediation to occur in urban areas. As concerns for environmental improvement in urban areas become more prevalent, innovative practices which create ecosystem services and ecologically functional land cover in cities will be in higher demand. Green roofs are a prime example of one of these practices. The past decade has seen the North American green roof industry rapidly expand through international green roof conferences, demonstration sites, case studies, and scientific research. This study evaluates existing international and North American green roof policies at the federal, municipal, and community levels. Green roof policies fall into a number of general categories, including direct and indirect regulation, direct and indirect financial incentives, and funding of demonstration or research projects. Advantages and disadvantages of each category are discussed. Salient features and a list of prompting standards common to successfully implemented green roof strategies are then distilled from these existing policies. By combining these features with data collected from an experimental green roof site in Athens, Georgia, the planning and regulatory framework for widespread green roof infrastructure can be developed. The authors propose policy instruments be multi-faceted and spatially focused, and also propose the following recommendations: (1) Identification of green roof overlay zones with specifications for green roofs built in these zones. This spatial analysis is important for prioritizing areas of the jurisdiction where green roofs will most efficiently function; (2) Offer financial incentives in the form of density credits and stormwater utility fee credits to help overcome the barriers to entry of the new technology; (3) Construct demonstration projects and institutionalize a commitment greening roofs on publicly-owned buildings as an effective way of establishing an educated roofing industry and experienced installers for future green roof construction.
NOISE EFFECTS ON THE ELECTROSENSE-MEDIATED FEEDING BEHAVIOR OF SMALL PADDLEFISH

Weak electrical noise applied in the water around small paddlefish, Polyodon spathula, increases the spatial range over which they can detect and capture planktonic prey (Daphnia), demonstrating stochastic resonance at the level of an animal's feeding behavior. Here we show that optimal-amplitude (~ 0.5 μ V·cm-1) noise causes a fish to prefer more vertical angles of attack when striking at prey, as revealed in polar graphs. Increased spatial range is also seen in horizontal directions, as outlying shoulders in the probability distribution of horizontal strike distances. High levels of noise increased the distance that approaching prey travelled along the rostrum (an elongated appendage anterior to the head, functioning as an electrosensitive antenna), before the fish first showed a visible fin or body motion in response. There was no significant effect of optimal-amplitude noise on the rate of strikes, although high-amplitude noise reduced the strike rate. The behavioral data were confirmed in neurophysiological experiments demonstrating that stochastic resonance occurs in individual electroreceptors, and in fact occurs at a similar optimal noise level as in behavioral experiments. We conclude that stochastic resonance can be demonstrated in the behavior of animals, and that animals can make use of the increased sensory information available during near-threshold environmental noise.
Calcium-induced quiescence of sperm motility in the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus).

Before dilution in hypoosmotic media sperm of freshwater fish are maintained quiescent by a range of factors including osmolality, K+ and pH, and the onset of motility is generally associated with an increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+. In contrast, Ca2+ in conjunction with osmolality was found to inhibit motility of intact bluegill sperm. Consistent with seminal plasma composition, 0.16 mmol/L Ca2+ and greater, in conjunction with an osmotic concentration of 290 mOsm/kg, inhibited the onset of bluegill sperm motility; sperm diluted in saline at 290 mOsm/kg without Ca2+ became motile. Cations Mn2+ and Sr2+, in conjunction with osmolality, had an inhibitory effect on initiation of sperm motility similar to that of Ca2+. Sperm motility was inhibited by Ca2+ channel blockers nimodipine and nifedipine, the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter inhibitor ruthenium red and the calmodulin inhibitors W-7 and trifluoperazine dihydrochloride. These results provide evidence that elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ inhibits sperm motility and yet low levels permit or promote motility. This study demonstrates a unique inhibitory action of Ca2+ on the motility of intact fish sperm at physiologically relevant levels. J. Exp. Zool. 307A:590–599, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
TH-E-BRCD-01: Automatic Treatment Planning - an MCO Perspective

We review three multi‐criteria optimization (MCO) approaches for automatic IMRTtreatment planning: goal programming, prioritized optimization, and Pareto surface based MCO. After comparing and contrasting these approaches, we describe a hybrid approach where in step one — using any of those alternatives — a “first pass” plan is constructed. When this plan is presented to the treatment planner (or physician), the planner is allowed to navigate on a Pareto surface centered around that plan, allowing for a tuning of the plan. For this tuning step to be most useful, we require directly deliverable MCO (DMCO), by which we mean navigating on the Pareto surface in such a way that the plan you are currently viewing is ready‐to‐go from a delivery perspective (i.e. it does not need to be leaf sequenced first, the multi‐leaf collimator segmentation has already been done). We discuss current approaches to solving this DMCO problem, and finish with a discussion of how the above ideas apply to automatic volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) planning. Learning objectives: 1. Understand three types of multi‐criteria optimization: goal programming, prioritized optimization, and Pareto surface based MCO 2. Understand the idea of Pareto surface navigation refinement of an automatically generated plan. 3. Understand directly deliverable navigation. Research sponsored in part by RaySearch Laboratories.
Identification of a Coat Protein Binding Site on Southern Bean Mosaic Virus RNA

Abstract The cowpea strain of Southern bean mosaic virus (SBMV-C), a T = 3 Icosahedral RNA virus, was dissociated to yield a ribonucleoprotein complex (RNPC) composed of the viral RNA and coat protein subunits. To determine if the coat protein subunits were bound to a specific site on the viral RNA, the RNPC was treated with ribonuclease, and the remaining coat protein-RNA complexes were recovered by filter binding. A single species of RNA was isolated by this procedure and further characterized by sequencing. The RNA was mapped to nucleotides 1410-1436 of the SBMV-C genome. This region of the viral RNA was predicted to fold into a hairpin with a 4-base loop and a duplex stem of 24 nucleotides. The stability and specificity of the coat protein-RNA complex isolated from dissociated virus suggest a possible role for this interaction in the selective encapsidation of the viral RNA.
Fabrication and electrical characterization of integrated nano-scale fluidic channels

We present the fabrication and characterization of nanoscale fluidic channels with embedded electrodes. Arrays of 2.25 μm long and 60 nm tall nanochannels with widths ranging from 60 to 500 nm were microfabricated in SiO2 with Au electrodes embedded inside and outside of the nanochannels. The built-in electrodes were able to probe nanochannel conductance via a redox reaction of $$ {\text{Fe}}({\text{CN}})_{6}^{3 - /4 - } $$. Amperometric characterization showed that conductance of nanochannel arrays varied linearly both with the width and number of nanochannels and was in the 10–100 pS range. Further, we show that electrical current was largely diffusion based and could be predicted from channel geometry using standard diffusion equations. We also discuss the potential of such nanochannel arrays as electronic biomolecular sensors and show preliminary streptavidin detection results.
Trace-metal and organochlorine residues in sediments of the Upper Rockaway River, New Jersey.

Etude sur les teneurs relevees en metaux, en polychlorobiphenyles et/ou insecticides chlores, pour mieux controler la qualite de l'eau potable stockee dans ce reservoir naturel
Administrative and management issues in developing a health-education component of a large HMO: A case study

A case study of the development of the health-education component of a large, complex health maintenance organization is based on the first three years. The structure and management is described along with programmatic examples and descriptions of activities. Issues are generalized from the problems that have evolved and discussed in terms of broad health education and organizational development points. The issues of structure, function, and accountability; financing; program objectives, priority setting, and strategy; and evaluation are interrelated.
The effects of different acclimation temperatures on gas secretion in the swimbladder of the bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus

Abstract 1. 1. After acclimation to 12, 22 or 32°C, the swimbladders of bluegill sunfish ( Lepomis macrochirus ) were partially deflated. Rates of gas secretion into the bladder were measured. 2. 2. Total gas secretion, measured as the rate of reinflation, was temperature independent. 3. 3. The rates of oxygen secretion into the swimbladder increased with increasing acclimation temperature; simultaneously, the rate of carbon dioxide secretion decreased.
Inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin protects against reperfusion injury in diabetic heart through STAT3 signaling

Diabetic patients suffer augmented severity of myocardial infarction. Excessive activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and decreased activation of STAT3 are implicated in diabetic complications. Considering the potent cardioprotective effect of mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, we hypothesized that reperfusion therapy with rapamycin would reduce infarct size in the diabetic hearts through STAT3 signaling. Hearts from adult male db/db or wild type (WT) C57 mice were isolated and subjected to 30 min of normothermic global ischemia and 60 min of reperfusion in Langendorff mode. Rapamycin (100 nM) was infused at the onset of reperfusion. Myocardial infarct size (IS) was significantly reduced in rapamycin-treated mice (13.3 ± 2.4 %) compared to DMSO vehicle control (35.9 ± 0.9 %) or WT mice (27.7 ± 1.1 %). Rapamycin treatment restored phosphorylation of STAT3 and enhanced AKT phosphorylation (target of mTORC2), but significantly reduced ribosomal protein S6 phosphorylation (target of mTORC1) in the diabetic heart. To determine the cause and effect relationship of STAT3 in cardioprotection, inducible cardiac-specific STAT3-deficient (MCM TG:STAT3flox/flox) and WT mice (MCM TG:STAT3flox/flox) were made diabetic by feeding high fat diet (HFD). Rapamycin given at reperfusion reduced IS in WT mice but not in STAT3-deficient mice following I/R. Moreover, cardiomyocytes isolated from HFD-fed WT mice showed resistance against necrosis (trypan blue staining) and apoptosis (TUNEL assay) when treated with rapamycin during reoxygenation following simulated ischemia. Such protection was absent in cardiomyocytes from HFD-fed STAT3-deficient mice. STAT3 signaling plays critical role in reducing IS and attenuates cardiomyocyte death following reperfusion therapy with rapamycin in diabetic heart.
The "testing" phenomenon: Not gone but nearly forgotten.

L'effet de la multiplicite des tests intermediaires sur la memorisation est repris a travers quatre experiences qui tentent de determiner les facteurs d'accroissement des scores qui en decoulent selon les divers modes de rappel (rappel libre, phrases a completer, reconnaissance), et selon les intervalles entre epreuves
Common African cooking processes do not affect the aflatoxin binding efficacy of refined calcium montmorillonite clay.

Abstract Aflatoxins are common contaminants of staple crops, such as corn and groundnuts, and a significant cause of concern for food safety and public health in developing countries. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) has been implicated in the etiology of acute and chronic disease in humans and animals, including growth stunting, liver cancer and death. Cost effective and culturally acceptable intervention strategies for the reduction of dietary AFB1 exposure are of critical need in populations at high risk for aflatoxicosis. Fermented gruels consisting of cornmeal are a common source for such exposure and are consumed by both children and adults in many countries with a history of frequent, high-level aflatoxin exposure. One proposed method to reduce aflatoxins in the diet is to include a selective enterosorbent, Uniform Particle Size NovaSil (UPSN), as a food additive in contaminated foods. For UPSN to be effective in this capacity, it must be stable in complex, acidic mixtures that are often exposed to heat during the process of fermented gruel preparation. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to test the ability of UPSN to sorb aflatoxin while common cooking conditions were applied. The influence of fermentation, heat treatment, acidity, and processing time were investigated with and without UPSN. Analyses were performed using the field-practical Vicam assay with HPLC verification of trends. Our findings demonstrated that UPSN significantly reduced aflatoxin levels (47–100%) in cornmeal, regardless of processing conditions. Upon comparison of each element tested, time appeared to be the primary factor influencing UPSN efficacy. The greatest decreases in AFB1 were reported in samples allowed to incubate (with or without fermentation) for 72 h. This data suggests that addition of UPSN to staple corn ingredients likely to contain aflatoxins would be a sustainable approach to reduce exposure.
Assessment of frequency-dependent alterations in the level of extracellular Ca2+ in the synaptic cleft

The synaptic cleft may be represented as a very thin disk of extracellular fluid. It is possible that at high stimulation frequencies the interval between pulses would be insufficient for diffusion of Ca2+ from the periphery of the cleft to replace extracellular Ca2+ depleted at the center of the cleft as a result of activation of postsynaptic, Ca2(+)-permeable channels. Computer modeling was employed to assess the impact of activation of glutamate receptor channels (GRCs) in the postsynaptic membrane on the level of extracellular Ca2+ within the synaptic cleft. The model includes calcium influx from the synaptic cleft into the postsynaptic compartment through GRC and calcium efflux through calcium pumps and Na/Ca exchangers. Concentrations of extracellular Ca2+ inside the cleft are estimated by using a compartmental model incorporating flux across the postsynaptic membrane and radial diffusion from the edges of the cleft. The simulations suggest that substantial extracellular Ca2+ depletion can occur in the clefts during activation of GRCs, particularly at high stimulation frequencies used to induce long-term potentiation (LTP). Only minimal transitory changes in extracellular Ca2+ are observed at low frequencies. These frequency-dependent alterations in extracellular Ca2+ dynamics are a direct reflection of the activity of GRCs and could be involved in the modulation of presynaptic function via a retrograde messenger mechanism, if there are extracellular Ca2+ sensors on the presynaptic membranes. The recently cloned extracellular Ca2(+)-sensing receptors that are known to be present in nerve terminals in hippocampus and other areas of the brain could potentially play such a role.
Genetics of specific reading disability

Results obtained from the Colorado Twin Study of Reading Disability provide compelling evidence for a genetic etiology. For the present report, multiple regression analyses were performed on reading performance data from 186 pairs of identical twins and 138 pairs of same-sex fraternal twins among whom at least one member of each pair has a reading disability. The results indicate that on average, more than half of the reading performance deficit of probands is a consequence of heritable influences. Moreover, individual differences within the affected twin sample are highly heritable, whereas shared environmental influences do not contribute importantly to twin resemblance. The results of these analyses also suggest that the etiology of reading disability may differ from that of individual differences in reading performance. Because the estimate of heritability for reading performance in affected twin pairs is substantially higher than that in a control sample, reading disability may be caused by one or more genes having major effects. These results are highly consistent with our recent report of a putative quantitative trait locus for reading disability in a small region on the short arm of chromosome 6. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Encapsulation of hemoglobin inside liposomes surface conjugated with poly(ethylene glycol) attenuates their reactions with gaseous ligands and regulates nitric oxide dependent vasodilation.

Acellular hemoglobin (Hb)-based O2 carriers (HBOCs) are being investigated as red blood cell (RBC) substitutes for use in transfusion medicine. However, commercial acellular HBOCs elicit both vasoconstriction and systemic hypertension which hampers their clinical use. In this study, it is hypothesized that encapsulation of Hb inside the aqueous core of liposomes should regulate the rates of NO dioxygenation and O2 release, which should in turn regulate its vasoactivity. To test this hypothesis, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) conjugated liposome-encapsulated Hb (PEG-LEHs) dispersions were prepared using human and bovine Hb. In this study, the rate constants for O2 dissociation, CO association, and NO dioxygenation were measured for free Hb and PEG-LEH dispersions using stopped-flow UV–visible spectroscopy, while vasoactivity was assessed in rat aortic ring strips using both endogenous and exogenous sources of NO. It was observed that PEG-LEH dispersions had lower O2 release and NO dioxygenation rate constants compared with acellular Hbs. However, no difference was observed in the CO association rate constants between free Hb and PEG-LEH dispersions. Furthermore, it was observed that Hb encapsulation inside vesicles prevented Hb dependent inhibition of NO-mediated vasodilation. In addition, the magnitude of the vasoconstrictive effects of Hb and PEG-LEH dispersions correlated with their respective rates of NO dioxygenation and O2 release. Overall, this study emphasizes the pivotal role Hb encapsulation plays in regulating gaseous ligand binding/release kinetics and the vasoactivity of Hb. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Level of Evidence of the Value of Care in Federally Qualified Health Centers for Policy Making

The Problem: Community health centers (CHCs) are part of the United States' medical care safety net. Cost effectiveness is a critical element of value in today's health policy environment. Not all cost-effectiveness studies employ formal peer-reviewed methodologies. A review of the literature on CHCs' cost effectiveness is necessary to assess whether a higher level of evidence is needed to guide future policy. Purpose: We sought to review the quality of the evidence on the economic value of CHCs and indicate whether a higher of level evidence would be useful for making policy. Key Points: Evidence exists to support the general value of care in CHCs, but no evidence comes from formal economic evaluations of CHC care. Conclusion: More formal cost-effectiveness evaluations would enhance the economic argument for CHCs but will remain difficult to conduct and may be unnecessary in light of other work on the value of care in CHCs.
Nonambipolar magnetic-fluctuation-induced particle transport and plasma flow in the MST reversed-field pinch.

First direct measurements of nonambipolar magnetic fluctuation-induced charge transport in the interior of a high-temperature plasma are reported. Global resistive tearing modes drive the charge transport which is measured in the vicinity of the resonant surface for the dominant core resonant mode. Finite charge transport has two important consequences. First, it generates a potential well along with locally strong electric field and electric field shear at the resonant surface. Second, this electric field
Construction and evaluation of an imaging focussed-mesh electron multiplier for space instrumentation

A focussed-mesh electron multiplier (FMEM) has been combined with a wedge and strip position-sensitive anode to create a novel detector that is considered likely to have a number of applications in space astronomy and laboratory image sensing. Results from the first application of a wedge and strip anode to an FMEM are presented including spatial resolution, spatial linearity, background rate, and pulse risetime. The converted multiplier retains the attributes of an FMEM that made it attractive in the first place, such as low background, high speed, and high dynamic range. >
Vapor Pressure of Silicon Monoxide

Silicon monoxide is a material that is used extensively in the glass and metallurgical industries. In addition, silicon monoxide is also particularly important to the field of astrophysics where it is theorized to play a vital role in the production of metal silicate dust grains in the condensing outflows of dying stars. In this work, the evaporation coefficients and vapor pressure of commercially available amorphous silicon monoxide were measured over the temperature range (1301 to 1519) K using a Knudsen effusion cell and a commercial, thermogravimetric balance. A second- and third-law analysis of the vapor pressure data yielded (351 ± 11) and (359.1 ± 2.0) kJ·mol−1 for the enthalpy of the vaporization reaction at 298.15 K, respectively. It is also shown that a thermodynamic assessment of silicon monoxide vapor pressure that has been used in the modeling of astrophysical condensation at 1000 K and below greatly overpredicts silicon monoxide vapor pressure.
Childhood urethral trauma

Urethral trauma in childhood due to external violence other than vehicular accident is discussed. The need for careful, planned management is highlighted by a satisfactory outcome in each of 4 cases, with no incontinence and no persistent urethral stricture. Temporary suprapubic cystostomy in 2 of these children caused no difficulty in the ultimate repair and permitted a more deliberate approach to these diminutive strictures in the pediatric age group.
Acceleration of low-energy magnetospheric plasma

Low-energy plasma originates in the ionosphere and is accelerated and transported to the plasma sheet and ultimately to the ring current. Using observations and basic MHD concepts, it is argued that the acceleration results basically from entrainment in flows that are rapid compared with initial ion thermal speeds. Spatial or temporal variations of such flows launch impulsive waves of the appropriate variety (acoustic, shear Alfven, or magnetosonic) to effect readjustment to the imposed boundary conditions. The most violent transient events are the earthward inductive surges of plasma in the inner plasma sheet, which launch magnetosonic waves. A number of observations strongly suggest that the induction surge waves break as they reach the inner plasma sheet or outer plasmasphere, forming transient shock waves and dissipating their energy in turbulent flows, plasma heating, and acceleration of energetic particles, forming the substorm injection boundary. Preliminary work indicates that the magnetosphere is typically configured so as to produce wave breaking near synchronous orbit, and has other interesting optical properties for MHD wave propagation as well. Exploration of magnetospheric plasma wave optics will require a better empirical knowledge of the plasma distribution.
Apparatus for Magnetization and Efficient Demagnetization of Soft Magnetic Materials

This paper describes an electrical circuit that can be used to automatically magnetize and ac-demagnetize moderately soft magnetic materials and with minor modifications could be used to demagnetize harder magnetic materials and magnetic geological samples. The circuit is straightforward to replicate, easy to use, and low in cost. Independent control of the demagnetizing current frequency, amplitude, and duration is available. The paper describes the circuit operation in detail and shows that it can demagnetize a link-shaped specimen of 430FR stainless steel with 100% efficiency. Measurements of the demagnetization efficiency of the specimen with different ac-demagnetization frequencies are interpreted using eddy-current theory. The experimental results agree closely with the theoretical predictions.
Factors That Influence the Clinical Decision Making of Physical Therapists in Choosing a Balance Assessment Approach

Background. Many methods for examining patients with balance deficits are supported by the literature. How or why therapists choose specific balance assessment methods during examination of patients remains unclear. Objectives. The aims of this study were: (1) to explore decision making during examination of patients with balance deficits, (2) to understand the selection and use of assessment methods from the clinician’s perspective, and (3) to explore why specific methods were selected. Design. A qualitative design using a grounded theory approach permitted exploration of clinical decision making. Methods. Eleven therapists were purposefully selected (6 from outpatient offices, 5 from inpatient rehabilitation settings) to participate in repeated interviews. Credibility of the findings was established through low-inference data, member check, and triangulation among participants and multiple data sources. Results. A highly individualized approach to patient examination based on therapists’ practical knowledge emerged from the data, with limited influence of the literature. Movement observation was the primary assessment and diagnostic tool. When selecting assessment approaches for specific patients, the perceived value of information gathered mattered more than testing time. A 3-stage model of assessment decision making portrayed both the process and reasons influencing therapists’ choices. Conclusions. In the context of the complex and busy nature of clinical practice, therapists gathered data that they considered meaningful during patient examination. The findings provide insight into factors influencing assessment decisions and suggest mechanisms to foster translation of research into clinical practice.
Nonlinear control of planar multibody systems in shape space

Modeling, reduction, and nonlinear control of planar multibody systems motivated by the classicalcat-fall problem and the practical problem of reorientation of free-floating multibody satellites with rotational joints using angular-momentum-preserving controls is studied. The system model considered is reduced by the first integral (the system angular momentum) resulting in a Hamiltonian system with a configuration space of relative joint angles (shape space). Reconstruction of dynamics is applied to modify the shape-space model and track the phase shift of the absolute angles. An important reachability result is then proved in the unreduced configuration space. Control synthesis can then be found in a feedback form, solving the reorientation problem completely. Surprisingly, the reachability result breaks down in the case of the planar coupled two-body system with zero angular momentum, proving that the cat-fall phenomenon is definitely nonplanar.
Infinite Impulse Response (IIR) Digital Filters

In this chapter, the fundamentals of IIR filter design will be developed. The traditional approach to the design of IIR filters involves the transformation of an analog filter, with defined feedback specifications, into the digital domain. This is a reasonable approach, mainly because the art of designing analog filters is highly advanced, and any standard tables are available, i.e., [99]. We will review the four most important classes of these analog prototype filters in this chapter, namely Butterworth, Chebyshev I and II, and elliptic filters.
Sodium-substrate cotransport in bacteria

A variety of sodium-substrate cotransport systems are known in bacteria. Sodium enters the cell down an electrochemical concentration gradient. There is obligatory coupling between the entry of the ion and the entry of substrate with a stoichiometry (in the cases studied) of 1:1. Thus, the downhill movement of sodium ion into the cell leads to the accumulation of substrate within the cell. The melibiose carrier of Escherichia coli is perhaps the most carefully studied of the sodium cotransport systems in bacteria. This carrier is of special interest because it can also use protons or lithium ions for cotransport. Other sodium cotransport carriers that have been studied recently are for proline, glutamate, serine-threonine, citrate and branched chain amino acids.
Textural and Rheological Properties of Cooked Potatoes

Cooked potato samples of different cultivars and specific gravities were analyzed for textural and rheological properties by sensory evaluation, texture profile analysis (TPA) and stress relaxation tests. Mealiness was correlated with the product of cohesiveness and adhesiveness, but not with other TPA parameters. Stress relaxation tests of cooked potatoes yielded a Maxwell model consisting of two viscous and three elastic elements. One of the elastic moduli was correlated with mealiness. Hardness by sensory evaluation correlated well with hardness and fracturability by TPA, and with the three elastic moduli in the relaxation model.
PREDATOR IDENTITY AND ADDITIVE EFFECTS IN A TREEHOLE COMMUNITY

Multiple predator species can interact as well as strongly affect lower trophic levels, resulting in complex, nonadditive effects on prey populations and community structure. Studies of aquatic systems have shown that interactive effects of predators on prey are not necessarily predictable from the direct effects of each species alone. To test for complex interactions, the individual and combined effects of a top and intermediate predator on larvae of native and invasive mosquito prey were examined in artificial analogues of water-filled treeholes. The combined effects of the two predators were accurately predicted from single predator treatments by a multiplicative risk model, indicating additivity. Overall survivorship of both prey species decreased greatly in the presence of the top predator Toxorhynchites rutilus. By itself, the intermediate predator Corethrella appendiculata increased survivorship of the native prey species Ochlerotatus triseriatus and decreased survivorship of the invasive prey species Aedes albopictus relative to treatments without predators. Intraguild predation did not occur until alternative prey numbers had been reduced by approximately one-half. Owing to changes in size structure accompanying its growth, T. rutilus consumed more prey as time progressed, whereas C. appendiculata consumed less. The intermediate predator, C. appendiculata, changed species composition by preferentially consuming A. albopictus, while the top predator, T. rutilus, reduced prey density, regardless of species. Although species interactions were in most cases predicted from pairwise interactions, risk reduction from predator interference occurred when C. appendiculata densities were increased and when the predators were similarly sized.
Failure of nitroglycerin introduced after prolonged myocardial ischemia to improve collateral blood flow and function in tranquilized dogs.

Abstract This study investigated whether nitroglycerin can improve ischemic zone blood flow and function when its infusion is delayed following left anterior descending (LAD) occlusion. Nitroglycerin (200 μg/min, 11 dogs) or saline (six dogs) was infused for 2 hours starting 2 hours after occlusion. Regional myocardial blood flow (MBF) was measured (9 ± 1 μm radioactive microspheres) before and at 2 and 4 hours after occlusion. Segmental contraction was determined by cineroentgenography of implanted tantalum markers. For all ischemic samples (defined as MBF ≤ 0.4 ml/min/gm), the average improvement in MBF in the epicardial half (EPI) was 0.05 ± 0.02 ml/min/gm (mean ± SEM) with nitroglycerin vs 0.06 ± 0.06 with saline (p > 0.5). Improvement in the endocardial half (ENDO) averaged 0.03 ± 0.03 ml/min/gm with nitroglycerin vs 0.09 ± 0.08 with saline (p = 0.5). Contraction in the ischemic zone ceased following occlusion and was unaffected by nitroglycerin or saline. Control blood flows in the ischemic region were 22% less in the ENDO (p
Theoretical study of nonlinear transition shift in double-layer perpendicular media

Nonlinear transition shift (NLTS) in perpendicular media is studied theoretically. From an analytic expression for demagnetizing field in perpendicular media, the difference between transition shift and NLTS is shown. A finite-element model is used to study the influence of a high permeability write head on the demagnetizing field from the adjacent transition. The results show a negligible effect, unlike longitudinal recording. Using a write model, the relationship between NLTS and write field gradient of perpendicular media shows that NLTS approaches a constant as the gradient increases. We also demonstrate that the measurement of the undifferentiated signal (the direct readback signal from perpendicular media) using the harmonic elimination technique produces misleading results.
Demonstration of Analog-to-Digital Conversion Using Spatial-Spectral Holography

Proof-of-concept demonstrations for an optical approach to broadband analog-to-digital conversion are shown with 800 MHz bandwidth and >26 dB dynamic range. Models suggest that this frequency-domain stretched processor could achieve 10-bit performance over 20 GHz bandwidths.