cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semipurification and ice recrystallization inhibition activity of ice-active substances associated with Antarctic photosynthetic organisms.

Abstract Ice-active substances (IASs), i.e., macromolecular substances that modify the shape of growing ice crystals, were previously found to be associated with various terrestrial and aquatic photosynthetic organisms from Antarctica, but their chemical nature and function are unknown. In this study, we used the ice-binding properties of the IASs to semipurify IASs from a cyanobacterial mat, a eukaryotic green alga (Prasiola sp.), and a moss (Bryum sp.) and examined the ice recrystallization inhibition (RI) activities of the semipure materials. The semipure materials contain both protein and carbohydrate in which the carbohydrate accounted for 73, 52, and 37%, respectively, of the total carbohydrate + protein. The IASs had RI activity at concentrations of 1.4, 0.05, and 0.01 μg ml−1, respectively. RI activity was greatly reduced by heat treatment, suggesting that the IASs inhibit recrystallization through a specific interaction with ice. These results raise the possibility that the IASs increase freezing tolerance of their respective organisms by preventing the recrystallization of ice.
Bacterial overgrowth and irritable bowel syndrome: a look at prevalence, symptoms and quality of life

Bacterial overgrowth and irritable bowel syndrome: a look at prevalence, symptoms and quality of life
An Air Layer Modeling Approach for Air and Air/Vacuum Bearings

Air layer supported bearing pads, or air bearings as they are commonly called, are popular because of their high load capacity and low in-plane coefficient of friction, making them well suited for supporting moving, high accuracy manufacturing stages. Air/vacuum bearings enhance these capabilities by giving the bearing pad load resistance capacity in both the upward and downward directions. Consequently, it is desirable to know how to model the air layer between the bearing pad and the bearing surface. In this paper, a simple finite element modeling approach is presented for investigating the vibrational characteristics of an air layer supported bearing. It was found that by modeling the air layer as a bed of uniform springs who's stiffness is determined by load-displacement tests of the bearing, a reasonable representation of the response can be obtained. For a bearing supported by air without vacuum, the dynamic response was very similar to that of a freely supported bearing. The addition of vacuum to an air bearing was found to significantly lower its fundamental frequency which could lead to unwanted resonance problems.
Interaction of the adenovirus proteinase with protein cofactors with high negative charge densities.

The interactions of the human adenovirus proteinase (AVP) with polymers with high negative charge densities were characterized. AVP utilizes two viral cofactors for maximal enzyme activity (kcat/Km), the 11-amino acid peptide from the C-terminus of virion precursor protein pVI (pVIc) and the viral DNA. The viral DNA stimulates covalent AVP−pVIc complexes (AVP−pVIc) as a polyanion with a high negative charge density. Here, the interactions of AVP−pVIc with different polymers with high negative charge densities, polymers of glutamic acid (polyE), were characterized. The rate of substrate hydrolysis by AVP−pVIc increased with increasing concentrations of polyE. At higher concentrations of polyE, the increase in the rate of substrate hydrolysis approached saturation. Although glutamic acid did not stimulate enzyme activity, glutamic acid and NaCl could displace DNA from AVP−pVIc·(DNA) complexes; the Ki values were 230 and 329 nM, respectively. PolyE binds to the DNA binding site on AVP−pVIc as polyE and DNA c...
Rural Area Agencies on aging: An overview of activities and policy issues

Abstract This article presents an overview of the nature and service activities of rural Area Agencies (AAAs) with data from a recently completed national survey. Compared to their urban counterparts rural AAAs serve much larger, more sparsely populated areas with poorer and older elderly populations; have much smaller budgets and staffs; and support fewer services. This leads to a clear rural disadvantage in resources and services for the elderly. Policy makers need to examine and address factors identified as associated with this rural-urban inequity including SUA intrastate funding formulas, “rural” service models and training needs, and regulations regarding direct service provision. Important research and policy questions in need of further study are also identified.
SCRIPTING SELVES, STALLING LAST SHADOWS: (AUTO) BIOGRAPHICAL WRITING OF ALZHEIMER PATIENTS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS

This article offers a critical discussion of notions of self as they emerge in the diaries kept by Alzheimer patients and their caregivers. It explores ways in which diary writing becomes simultaneously an agentive way by which a sense of ‘self’ gets scripted since memory is fast slipping away, while also pointing to the fluid nature of identities as patients struggle with diminishing language and remembering skills. Specifically, the article explores how two themes, 1) repetition and (sure) signs and 2) traces and intentions, crucially inform their need to text their elusive hold on language and memories into place. The entries make us take note of how in contexts of disabilities and chronic ailments texting, and to some extent, fixing, a sense of self may be a critical way of surviving and coping and stalling last shadows.
Predicting Radiative Transfer in Axisymmetric Cylindrical Enclosures Using the Discrete Ordinates Method

Abstract Radiation codes have been developed based on the S 2 and S 4 discrete ordinates approximations which involve solving the radiation transport equation in 4 and 12 directions, respectively. Evaluation of the codes against exact numerical solutions and experimental data show that both these approximations predict radiative fluxes with acceptable accuracy. The models are also evaluated treating them as part of an overall predictive scheme for pulverized coal combustion. The comparative importance of the various input parameters on the model predictions is evaluated via a detailed sensitivity study based on Fourier analysis technique. This analysis shows that the predictions arc most sensitive to the particle number densities and temperatures, while little sensitivity to the absorption and scattering efficiencies is detected.
Considering advances in neuroscience through the lenses of law and human rights

Advances in neuroscience should be subject to a robust public dialogue that includes attention to the legal and human rights issues raised by both research and its applications.
Resting Cell Neutralization Assay for HIV-1 Primary Isolates

A technique is described for detecting the activity of neutralizing polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies against HIV-1 primary isolates. Most commonly, neutralizing antibody activity for HIV-1 is assessed by quantifying the ability of antibodies to inhibit virus infection in mitogen-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells or transformed lymphocytes. Because the target of HIV infection in vivo is neither a mitogen-activated nor a transformed cell, an assay using unstimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells as a more physiologic target cell was developed. This "resting cell assay" mainly utilizes primary HIV-1 isolates that have been carried for only a few passages in vitro. The result is an assay that is more efficient to perform and that detects neutralizing activity with comparable or greater sensitivity than that previously described for assays of primary HIV-1 isolates.
Some Systematic Observations on Monaural Diplacusis

Anomalies of monaural pitch perception, including pitch changes with level, roughness and beats, were mapped in the intensity-frequency plane by a listener using continuous-tone stimulation between approximately 1 900 and 2 750 Hz. A narrow region characterized by rapid threshold adaptation was also mapped between approximately 2 590 and 2 690 Hz.In the procedure used to localize the internally generated tones, which were interacting with the externally presented single tones to produce beats, the listener adjusted the frequency of a signal presented to his right ear so that the beat rate heard there was the same as a criterion beat rate produced by two external tones in his left ear. A plot in the intensity-frequency plane of adjustments for a constant-beat rate revealed a remarkable correspondence to the region of adaptation (between 2 590 and 2 690 Hz) in that the former curve was simply shifted in frequency away from the latter by an amount equal to the two-tone interval producing the beat rate. Thus,...
Simultaneous determination of cortisol and corticosterone in urine.

Abstract Urinary cortisol and corticosterone have been measured simultaneously without prior purification or chromatography using a fluorometric method which incorporates a correction for non-specific fluorescence. Non-corticoid fluorescence was corrected for by the introduction of a sample blank in which corticosteroid fluorescence has been altered by interaction with hydroxylamine. Daily excretion of cortisol in normal subjects from 18 to 120 μg with a mean of 51 ± 24 υg S.D. and of corticosteronre o to 16 μg with a mean of 3.0 ± 3.2 μg S.D. The demonstration of a circadian rhythm, low levels in patients with adrenocortical hypofunction, elevation in the third trimester of pregnancy and the expected responses to metyrapone and corticotropin illustrate the close correlation with adrenocortical activity.
Highly Efficient Electrophosphorescent Devices with Saturated Red Emission from a Neutral Osmium Complex

Highly efficient electrophosphorescent polymer light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with saturated red emission (Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage chromaticity coordinates exactly at x = 0.67, y = 0.33) are achieved by blending a novel neutral Osmium complex into a single-component bipolar polymer host that possesses balanced hole- and electron-transporting ability. By using a tetraphenylenebiphenyldiamine (TPD)-based cross-linkable hole-transport layer as well as a layer of 1,3,5-tris(N-phenylbenzimidazol-2-yl)benzene (TPBI) as an electron-transport layer, a device structure with both effective hole/electron injection and efficient carriers/excitons blocking or confinement at both electrode sides is constituted. In this way, external quantum efficiency 12.8% is reached the first time with an organometallic complex with heavy metal core other than iridium.
In vitro Assay of Cell Mediated Immunity in Human Cancer: Definition of Leukocyte Migration Inhibitory Factor

SEVERAL studies have implicated the delayed hypersensitivity reaction in the body's response to cancer. Hughes and Lytton found that one cancer patient in four demonstrated a delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity response to an antigen consisting of small cytoplasmic particles obtained after ultrasonic disruption of their tumours1. There have been several studies of the ability of cancer patients to react to the antigens commonly used for delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity testing2–9; in general, while responsiveness was affected little, if at all, in patients with early cancer, it decreased as disease and debility progressed. The ability to develop contact sensitivity to dinitrochloro-benzene or dinitrofluoro-benzene is decreased in cancer patients, particularly those with advanced disease10,11. Such sensitivity has been shown to be related to prognosis12.
Electronic density oscillations in gold atomic chains assembled atom by atom.

Linear Au chains two to 20 atoms long were constructed on a NiAl(110) surface via the manipulation of single atoms with a scanning tunneling microscope. Differential conductance ($dI/dV$) images of these chains reveal one-dimensional electronic density oscillations at energies 1.0 to 2.5 eV above the Fermi energy. The origin of this delocalized electronic structure is traced to the existence of an electronic resonance measured on single, isolated Au atoms. Variations in the wavelength in $dI/dV$ images of an eleven-atom chain taken at different energies revealed an effective electronic mass of $0.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1$ times the mass of a free-electron.
Erythrocyte sodium/potassium ATPase activity in severe preeclampsia

Elevated blood levels of endogenous digitalis-like factors (EDLF) may decrease erythrocyte sodium pump activity in preeclampsia. As the highest EDLF levels might be expected in severe preeclampsia, we investigated sodium pump activity in that group of patients. Erythrocyte sodium pump activity was determined by 86Rubidium uptake (in nM per hour per 106 cells) in women with severe preeclampsia and those with normal pregnancies, matched for gestational age, and in healthy nonpregnant women (n=12 in each group). Differences between groups were analyzed by a two-sided Student t-test. Sodium pump activity was significantly increased in normotensive pregnancies as compared with normotensive non-pregnant women (81.4±8.4 vs 61.1±7.4, mean±s.d., p<0.05), and was decreased 43% in severe preeclamptic pregnancies as compared with normotensive pregnancies (46.4±14.1 vs 81.4±8.4, p<0.05). Severe preeclampsia is associated with significantly lower erythrocyte sodim pump activity than normotensive pregnancy. These data suggest that plasma levels of a biologically active EDLF are elevated in patients with severe preeclampsia.
Interlocked molecules: a molecular production line.

A small molecule that mimics the sequence-specific peptide synthesis of nature's ribosomes paves the way for more elaborate artificial molecular synthesizers.
Social responsiveness and physical space as determinants of agonistic behavior inBetta splendens

Two experiments examined the conditions under whichBetta agonistic responding occurs by manipulating physical space and the species and social responsiveness of an opponent. In Experiment 1, both the species (conspecific or nonconspecific) and the aggressiveness (aggressive or nonaggressive) of the opponent were manipulated. The results indicated that agonistic behavior was greater with both conspecifics and aggressive opponents. Experiment 2 examined the effects of physical space and social responsiveness of the opponent on intraspecific aggressive behavior. An inverse relationship was found between physical space and the number of attacks directed toward the opponent. The results of both experiments also indicated thatBetta tend to attack aggressive opponents more than nonaggressive ones. It is suggested thatBetta aggress either when the individual animal is threatened or when physical space is limited.
Elements, Oxides, Silicates: High Pressure Phases With Implications for the Earth's Interior

A vitally important aspect of understanding the composition, structure, and processes acting within the solid Earth is obtaining a complete as possible knowledge of the fields of stability of the Earth's component minerals and their high-pressure polymorphs with respect to pressure and temperature. Liu and Bassett's book is the first effort which has focused on bringing together the available phase diagrams for the elements, oxides, and silicates that are relevant to the understanding of Earth's and the other terrestrial planetary interiors. Since the book also covers the elements and compounds important to the shallow region of the mantles of the major planets (e.g., H2 , He, C, and H2O), it is an invaluable source of data for scientists studying the interiors of these planets as well. An initial introductory chapter lays out, in very condensed form, the relation of phase diagrams to thermodynamic properties. Crystal chemical principles are summarized, as well as the main features of the techniques and apparatus employed to obtain the data summarized in the remainder of the book. Although references to apparatus papers are numerous and well chosen, references to works which relate thermodynamic properties to contruction of phase diagrams are lacking. Table 1.3, a summary of the ionic radii of elements in different coordinations appears to me to be the most valuable part of Chapter 1.
National direct student loan defaulters: The ability to repay

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is any difference between the incomes of student borrowers who repay National Direct Student loans and those who do not. The incomes of 681 NDSL borrowers (564 repayers and 117 defaulters) were obtained anonymously from state income tax records. The results showed no difference in the disposable income of repayers and defaulters. A disproportion in the representation of repayers and defaulters in the income tax records, indicating a significantly greater out-migration from the state of defaulters than repayers, clouds the validity of generalization of this study. These findings indicate that student loan default is motivated by factors other than lack of financial resources and are consistent with earlier findings.
International diversification and firm performance in Mexican firms: A curvilinear relationship?

Abstract This study examines the relationship between international diversification strategies and performance in emerging market firms. Using a longitudinal sample of Mexican firms, it finds that there is a U-shaped curvilinear relationship between international diversification and firm performance. Mexican firms initially experience negative performance as they expand internationally due to the liability of foreignness; however, over time, through gaining experience and through organizational learning, they eventually reap the positive benefits from international expansion. Contrary to expectations, our study finds no support for geographic distance as a moderator of the international diversification–performance relationship. Managers of emerging market firms should exercise patience as they initially face challenges to international expansion and should consider expanding to a diverse set of destinations, including those that are more distant.
Multimodality Imaging Methods for Assessing Retinoblastoma Orthotopic Xenograft Growth and Development

Genomic studies of the pediatric ocular tumor retinoblastoma are paving the way for development of targeted therapies. Robust model systems such as orthotopic xenografts are necessary for testing such therapeutics. One system involves bioluminescence imaging of luciferase-expressing human retinoblastoma cells injected into the vitreous of newborn rat eyes. Although used for several drug studies, the spatial and temporal development of tumors in this model has not been documented. Here, we present a new model to allow analysis of average luciferin flux () through the tumor, a more biologically relevant parameter than peak bioluminescence as traditionally measured. Moreover, we monitored the spatial development of xenografts in the living eye. We engineered Y79 retinoblastoma cells to express a lentivirally-delivered enhanced green fluorescent protein-luciferase fusion protein. In intravitreal xenografts, we assayed bioluminescence and computed , as well as documented tumor growth by intraocular optical coherence tomography (OCT), brightfield, and fluorescence imaging. In vivo bioluminescence, ex vivo tumor size, and ex vivo fluorescent signal were all highly correlated in orthotopic xenografts. By OCT, xenografts were dense and highly vascularized, with well-defined edges. Small tumors preferentially sat atop the optic nerve head; this morphology was confirmed on histological examination. In vivo, in xenografts showed a plateau effect as tumors became bounded by the dimensions of the eye. The combination of modeling and in vivo intraocular imaging allows both quantitative and high-resolution, non-invasive spatial analysis of this retinoblastoma model. This technique will be applied to other cell lines and experimental therapeutic trials in the future.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in uracil-processing genes, intake of one-carbon nutrients and breast cancer risk.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in uracil-processing genes, intake of one-carbon nutrients and breast cancer risk
On Nevanlinna's second main theorem in projective space

We first prove a theorem concerning higher order logarithmic partial derivatives for meromorphic functions of several complex variables. Then we show the best nature of the second main theorem in Nevanlinna theory under two different assumptions of non-degeneracy of meromorphic mappingsf : ℂn → ℙn for arbitrary positive integersn andm. Moreover, we derive a upper bound of the error term in the second main theorem for meromorphic mappings of finite order. Finally, we demonstrate the sharpness of all upper bounds in our main theorems.
Some small, multitape universal Turing machines

Abstract The standard way of assigning complexity to a one-tape Turing machine, by the state-symbol product, is clearly inadequate for machines with more than one tape. Letting an (m,n,p)-machine be a Turing machine with m states, n symbols (including any end markers), and p tapes, the number m· np gives the maximum number of operating rules for an (m,n,p)-machine and serves as a fairly reasonable complexity criterion, reducing to the state-symbol product when p = 1. A (2,3,2)-machine has been designed to simulate an arbitrary tag system with deletion number 2, and therefore is universal [1]. Also a (1,2,4)-machine, having a fixed loop for one of its four tapes, has been designed ; this machine is universal by its ability to simulate an arbitrary “B machine” (6). Under the criterion stated above, these machines have complexities of 18 and 16, respectively, both less than any reported state-symbol product. Moreover, any (m,n,p)-machine may be simulated, step-by-step, by a (1,2,p′)-machine, where p′ = p⌜log 2 (n)⌝ + ⌜log 2 (m)⌝ . If the logarithms are integral, this transformation is realized with no increase in complexity. However, since the full power of the additional tapes is not utilized in this transformation, it appears that this complexity criterion does not provide a severe enough penalty for the introduction of additional tapes to a Turing machine.
The stimulation of rat liver adenylate cyclase by prostaglandins E1 and E2

Abstract Adenylate cyclase associated with particulate fractions from rat liver is stimulated by prostaglandin E 1 (PGE 1 ) 1 and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ), but not by prostaglandins F 1α or F 2α . Significant stimulation by prostaglandins is dependent on the presence of GTP using substrate ATP concentrations from 0.2 to 2.0 mM. Guanosine-5′-(β,γ-imino)-triphosphate (GMPPNP) stimulated adenylate cyclase itself, but PGE 1 did not stimulate in the presence of optimal or suboptimal concentrations of this GTP analog. In contrast, glucagon caused additional stimulation when optimal concentrations of GMPPNP were included.
A phase I trial of an IV-administered vascular endothelial growth factor trap for treatment in patients with choroidal neovascularization due to age-related macular degeneration.

Objectives To assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and biological activity of IV administration of vascular endothelial growth factor trap (VEGF Trap), a recombinant protein containing the binding domains of VEGF receptors 1 and 2, in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Design Randomized, multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants Twenty-five patients were enrolled (11 male, 14 female); 19 received VEGF Trap (0.3 [n = 7], 1.0 [n = 7], or 3.0 mg/kg [n = 5]), and 6 received a placebo. Methods Patients were randomized to receive a placebo or 0.3-, 1.0-, or 3.0-mg/kg VEGF Trap—a single IV dose followed by a 4-week observation period and then 3 doses 2 weeks apart. Main Outcome Measures Safety and biological activity, including change in excess retinal thickness and volume assessed by optical coherence tomography and visual acuity (VA) measured by the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study protocol. Results The majority of adverse events attributable to VEGF Trap were mild to moderate in severity, but 2 of 5 patients treated with 3.0 mg/kg experienced dose-limiting toxicity (1 with grade 4 hypertension and 1 with grade 2 proteinuria); therefore, all patients in the 3.0 mg/kg–dose group were withdrawn from the study. The mean percent changes in excess retinal thickness were −12%, −10%, −66%, and −60%, respectively, for the placebo and 0.3-, 1.0-, and 3.0-mg/kg groups at day 15 ( P P Conclusions The maximum tolerated dose of IV VEGF Trap in this study population was 1.0 mg/kg. This dose resulted in elimination of about 60% of excess retinal thickness after either single or multiple administrations. Alternative routes of delivery to increase the therapeutic window are being explored.
Rate of strong uniform convergence of k-NN density estimates

Abstract Let f n (x) be the univariate k -nearest neighbor ( k -NN) density estimate proposed by Loftsgaarden and Quesenberry (1965). By using similar techniques as in Bahadur's representation of sample quantiles (1966), and by the recent results on the oscillation of empirical processes by Stute (1982), we derive the rate of strong uniform convergence of f n (x) on some suitably chosen interval J δ . Some comparison with the kernel estimates is given, as well as the choice of the bandwidth sequence relative to the sample size.
Transformation of fibrinogen into fibrin. III. Kinetics of the pH change associated with the clotting of fibrinogen.

Abstract The kinetics of the pH change accompanying the transformation of fibrinogen into fibrin has been investigated at different initial pH values. From pH 5.5 to 8 the reaction follows first-order kinetics. Above pH 8, two reactions are apparent: one producing, the other absorbing hydrogen ions. This biphasic curve can be analyzed in terms of two consecutive, first-order reactions. It is concluded that the rate of the single reaction below pH 8 and of the first reaction above this pH is equal to the rate of the proteolytic step, whereas the rate of the second reaction above pH 8 is equal to the rate of the polymerization step.
Accelerated testing of SiO/sub 2/ reliability

This paper compares several popular accelerated test methods for projecting SiO/sub 2/ lifetime distribution or failure rate: constant-voltage and constant-current time-to-breakdown and charge-to-breakdown tests, ramp-voltage breakdown test, and ramp-current charge to-breakdown test. Charge trapping affects the electric field acceleration parameter for time-to-breakdown and the value of breakdown voltage. Practical considerations favor ramp breakdown testing for gate oxide defect characterization. The effective thinning model is used for defect characterization and the ramp-voltage breakdown test is shown to be superior to the ramp-current Q/sub BD/ test for extraction of the defect distribution. Measurement issues are also discussed.
Magnetooptics: A thermomagnetic recording technology

Erasable magnetooptic (MO) recording is viewed as a possible successor to electromagnetic recording that is used today in high-performance disk drives for mainframe computers, hard disks, and floppy disks for personal computers and magnetic tape drives. A large number of rare earth-transition metal alloys have been investigated for use as the magnetic recording material. The properties of the films are very sensitive to the film deposition processing parameters. Accelerated life tests show that there are magnetooptic materials that do have all of the necessary properties and stability for use in computer digital storage.
Effect of spinal kainic acid receptor activation on spinal amino acid and prostaglandin E2 release in rat

Abstract Current work has shown that spinal excitatory amino acid receptor activation can evoke physiological phenomena that may be mediated by the subsequent depolarization of glutamate-containing neurons and the activation of cyclo-oxygenase systems. To investigate this phenomena, rats were implanted with lumbar intrathecal loop dialysis catheters for perfusion and an additional lumbar intrathecal PE-10 catheter for drug delivery. Two days after implantation, kainic acid (1 μg) was injected intrathecally under light (0.5%) halothane anaesthesia and the spinal release of several amino acids and prostaglandin E 2 was examined. Resting concentrations (mean expressed as pmol/25 μl) of glutamate (89), aspartate (9), serine (387), glycine (597) taurine (185) asparagine (113) and prostaglandin E 2 (0.43) were observed. Intrathecal kainic acid produced significant signs of arousal in the rat and evoked a significant increase (mean±S.E.M. of % baseline concentration) in aspartate (445±127%) and glutamate (221±35%). Prostaglandin E 2 concentration was increased in the second post-injection sample (180±36%). Intrathecal pretreatment with 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (3 μg or 10 μg), a non- N -methyl- d -aspartate receptor antagonist, blocked amino acid but not prostaglandin E 2 release after kainic acid injection. Pretreatment with MK-801 (10 μg; non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist) had no significant effect on evoked release of amino acids or prostaglandin E 2 . Indomethacin (10 μg, a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor) pretreatment significantly decreased baseline prostaglandin E 2 release in control animals (61±6%) and suppressed kainic acid-evoked aspartate, taurine and prostaglandin E 2 release, but had no effect on the concentration of glutamate after kainic acid injection. These data suggest that activation of spinal kainic acid receptors provides a powerful stimulus for secondary excitatory amino acid release and, consistent with the concurrent appearance of prostaglandin E 2 , that this release is potentiated by the release of a cyclo-oxygenase product.
Recent Photographic Measurements of Saturn

Summary of some recent measurements of Saturn, particularly latitudes of the faint atmospheric belts. The measurements reveal no seasonal variations in belt latitudes. A small, bright spot at Saturnigraphic latitude 57 deg has been photographed on 46 nights from Oct. 25, 1969, to Feb. 27, 1971. This feature, which is by far the longest lived spot ever observed on Saturn, has had an average rotation period of 10 hr 36 min 27.9 sec plus or minus 0.2 sec.
Electronic defect states observed by cathodoluminescence spectroscopy at GaN/sapphire interfaces

Cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging and temperature-dependent cathodoluminescence spectroscopy (CLS) have been used to probe the spatial distribution and energies of electronic defects near GaN/Al 2 O 3 interfaces grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). Cross sectional secondary electron microscopy imaging, CLS and CL imaging show systematic variations in defect emissions with a wide range of HVPE GaN/sapphire electronic properties. Highly degenerate interface regions give rise to above bandgap emissions due to band filling and free electron recombination. Besides the common donor and acceptor bound exciton, CLS and CL images also reveal emissions due to excitons bound to stacking faults and cubic phase GaN.
Automatic classification of Alzheimer’s Disease vs. Frontotemporal dementia: A spatial decision tree approach with FDG-PET

We introduce a novel approach for the automatic classification of FDG-PET scans of subjects with Alzheimers disease (AD) and Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Unlike previous work in the literature which focuses on principal component analysis and predefined regions of interest, we propose the combined use of information gain and spatial proximity to group cortical pixels into empirically determined regions that can best separate the two diseases. These regions are then used as attributes in a decision tree learning framework. We demonstrate that the proposed method provides better classification accuracy compared to other methods on a group of 48 autopsy confirmed AD and FTD patients.
Risk-stratified postnatal care of newborns with congenital heart disease determined by fetal echocardiography.

Background Advances in fetal echocardiography have improved recognition of congenital heart disease (CHD). Imaging protocols have been developed that predict delivery room (DR) risk and anticipated postnatal level of care (LOC). The aim of this study was to determine the utility of fetal echocardiography in the perinatal management of CHD. Methods A retrospective analysis of fetal and postnatal records was conducted. The anticipated LOC was assigned by fetal echocardiography (LOC 1, nursery consult/outpatient follow-up; LOC 2, stable in DR with transfer to cardiac hospital; LOC 3 or 4, DR instability/urgent intervention needed). Prenatal diagnoses and LOC assignment were compared with postnatal diagnoses, treatment, and short-term outcomes. Results From 2004 to 2012, 8,101 fetuses were evaluated; 7,405 were normal. Of 696 with CHD, 101 terminated, 40 died in utero, and 37 received palliative care. LOC was assigned in the remaining 518. Of 219 LOC 1, 195 (89%) had postnatal follow-up. Only two required transfer for intervention (LOC 1 sensitivity, 0.9; LOC 1 positive predictive value, 0.99). Of 260 assigned LOC 2, 229 (88%) had follow-up. Of these, 200 (87%) were transferred for surgery or intervention. The median time to admission was 195 min. Twenty-two patients (10%) assigned LOC 2 did not require intervention; however, seven (all with D-transposition of the great arteries) required catheter intervention before surgery. Hospital survival was 86% (LOC 2 sensitivity, 0.97; LOC 2 positive predictive value, 0.87). All LOC 3 and 4 patients had follow-up. Thirty-four (87%) needed urgent intervention, with 100% DR and 87% hospital survival (LOC 3 and 4 sensitivity, 0.83; LOC 3 and 4 positive predictive value, 0.87). Conclusions Fetal echocardiography enables accurate postnatal risk stratification in CHD, with the exception of D-transposition of the great arteries. LOC 1 assignment facilitated outpatient follow-up; LOC 2 assignment facilitated transfer for intervention. LOC 3 and 4 patients underwent stabilizing intervention or surgery with good short-term outcomes. Given the inability to predict need for intervention in D-transposition of the great arteries, all such patients should be assigned as LOC 3 or 4. Fetal echocardiography with LOC assignment should be used in the planning of postnatal care in CHD.
Fracture Properties of Human Enamel and Dentin

Fracture in enamel is anisotropic with respect ot the orientation of the enamel rods, with Wf for fracture parallel to the rods being 0.3 X 10(2) J/meter2 but on the order of 2.0 X 10(2) J/meter2 for fracture perpendicular to the rods. Fractographs of enamel showed that the enamel rods behaved as integral units during controlled fracture. A model was proposed to explain the fracture properties of enamel involving the assumption that the hydroxyapatite crystals did not fracture but that their orientation determined the fracture properties. Dentin was also anisotropic, with fracture parallel to the dentinal tubules being the strong direction - Wf was 5.5 X 10(2) J/meter2 for fracture parallel to the tubules, but 2.7 X 10(2) J/meter2 for fracture perpendicular to the tubules. Wf for dentin was of the same magnitude as the high strain rate Wf found for bone (2.0 X 10(2) J/meter2 [ref 3]). The data obtained in this investigation indicated that dentin and enamel are brittle substances and that forces occasionally imposed during mastication or bruxism probably are capable of initiating fracture when the normal anatomy of the tooth has been altered by cavity preparation. As consequence, the design of cavity preparations should include considerations to reduce stress concentrations and thus improve the practical fracture strength of tooth structure.
Effects of chlorophyllin on transport of dibenzo(a, l)pyrene, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo-[4,5-b]pyridine, and aflatoxin B1 across Caco-2 cell monolayers

Abstract Chlorophyllin (CHL) is a sodium copper derivative of chlorophyll that is capable of forming strong non-covalent complexes with several known carcinogens. Antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic effects, including reduced DNA adduct and tumor formation have been demonstrated for CHL against aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ), dibenzo( a , l )pyrene (DBP) and 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo-[4,5- b ]pyridine (PhIP). Alterations in uptake and/or metabolism of planar molecules with at least partial ring structure have been proposed as mechanisms of action for CHL chemoprevention. The Caco-2 cell model of intestinal epithelial transport was used to evaluate the absorption of 1 μM DBP, AFB 1 and PhIP across cell monolayers in the presence of 0, 1, 10, and 100 μM CHL. No significant differences were observed in the permeability ( P e ) of DBP and AFB 1 from the basolateral-to-apical (BL → AP) compared to apical-to-basolateral (AP → BL) compartments for DBP and AFB 1 , however, the P e of PhIP from BL → AP, 1.26×10 5 ±2.10×10 6 cm/s, was significantly higher than AP → BL, 5.83×10 6 ±7.56×10 7 cm/s, ( P P 1 was significantly reduced by the addition of 100 μM CHL ( P K b ) for DBP to CHL compared to AFB 1 to CHL in transport buffer. AP → BL transport of PhIP, which has a lower binding affinity for CHL than AFB 1 or DBP, was not significantly altered by the addition of CHL. These data suggest that the transport of AFB 1 and DBP can be inhibited by CHL, which supports a model of direct binding in the intestinal tract of CHL to these carcinogens with resultant reduction of bioavailability as one mechanism of action as a cancer chemopreventive agent.
Method of auxiliary sources for calculating the magnetic and electric fields induced in a layered Earth

Time varying ionospheric currents caused by geomagnetic storms originating from the Sun induce electric currents in expansive technological networks located on the Earth’s surface. These so-called geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) can be damaging to the systems in which they 9ow. The ability to estimate the magnitude of GICs is, therefore, desirable in order to mitigate any serious e:ects from this common space weather occurrence. A necessary element in determining GICs is the accurate calculation of the geoelectric )eld due to ionospheric current sources. Until now, methods for calculating these )elds have primarily focused on computational e<ciency. These methods are inaccurate to varying degrees and almost entirely restricted to layered or one-dimensional models of the Earth’s conductivity. This work introduces a new technique to the geomagnetic induction problem known as the method of auxiliary sources (MAS). The MAS uses elementary electric/magnetic currents placed on auxiliary surfaces to produce the )elds resulting from the primary ionospheric current and secondary currents induced in the Earth. Numerical results for a single- and two-layer Earth model show that the MAS is extremely accurate over the frequency range of interest in geomagnetic induction (0 –1 Hz). The MAS is not, however, limited to layered Earth models and can be used with general three-dimensional structures. Furthermore, it is shown that by using the MAS, it is possible to determine the )elds at any location and with any resolution on the surface or within the Earth. The combination of accuracy and 9exibility demonstrate the potential of the MAS for studying complicated geomagnetic induction problems. c
AIREN: A Novel Integration of On-Chip and Off-Chip FPGA Networks

The Reconfigurable Computing Cluster Project at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is investigating the feasibility of using FPGAs as compute nodes to scale to PetaFLOP computing. To date the Spirit cluster, consisting of 64 FPGAs, has been assembled for the initial analysis. One important question is how to efficiently communicate among compute cores on-chip as well as between nodes. Tight integration between both the on-chip and off-chip networks is crucial in obtaining high performance and parallelism while minimizing communication overhead. This paper introduces AIREN — Architecture Independent REconfigurable Network — the integration of an on-chip crossbar switched network with an off-chip k-ary d-cube network and presents the results of integrating AIREN with the Spirit cluster.
Capacitance calculation for anisotropic medium of liquid crystal chemical and biological sensor

In this paper a program has been developed that can calculate capacitance of arbitrary shape electrodes for anisotropic medium of liquid crystal chemical and biological sensors. Since for anisotropic materials permittivity is dependent on orientation of molecules, certain electrode shapes can be designed that have special features for sensor detection. For proof of concept a circular shape electrode has been introduced that its capacitance is independent of planar angle change of the LC molecules.
Functional and Functionalized Silicate Materials

Mesoporous organosilicate materials combine tunable binding characteristics, high surface area, and low materials density with an ordered pore network. Surface modifications provide the potential for incorporation of a variety of functional groups. We have taken advantage of these characteristics for the development of a range of materials to be utilized in various applications. In one approach, porphyrins are incorporated into the materials to provide unique catalytic properties. In these materials, the organosilicate scaffold stabilizes the porphyrin catalyst and facilitates interaction of the catalyst and target. Catalysis can be stimulated through exposure to light or application of an electrical current. The selectivity of the materials can be influenced through choice of organic bridging groups in the organosilicate structure and through selection of the porphyrin component. In addition, a type of molecular imprinting can be applied to provide sites on the pore walls that enhance adsorption selectivity for the target. These materials are directed at the development of self-decontaminating surfaces and coatings. Similar materials characteristics have been utilized in the development of solidphase extraction materials for use in the pre-concentration of nitroenergetic targets from ground and surface water samples. These materials are being incorporated into systems for in situ water quality monitoring. Mesoporous organosilicates can also be applied to the encapsulation of proteins and nucleic acids, stabilizing them for wider application of technologies utilizing these reagents. Modifications to the pore surfaces, in this case, are used to incorporate stabilizing agents such as sugars and proteins which should extend shelf-life and reduce storage restrictions.
Effect of catheter ablation of the atrioventricular junction on quality of life and exercise tolerance in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Abstract The effect of catheter ablation of the atrioventricular junction (AV) and implantation of a rate-adaptive pacemaker on quality of life and exercise capacity was evaluated prospectively in 12 consecutive patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). All patients had been demonstrated to have paroxysmal AF that was refractory to medical therapy over a long period of time (mean 9 ± 7 years). Patients performed a symptom-limited treadmill exercise test on the day before catheter ablation and 6 weeks after hospital discharge. Quality of life was measured using the physical dimension of the McMaster Health Index Questionnaire and the Psychological General Well-Being Index before and 6 weeks after ablation. There were no serious complications related to catheter ablation or permanent pacemaker implantation. All patients remain in complete AV block with a completely paced rhythm at a mean follow-up of 8 ± 2 months. The McMaster Health Index scores increased from a mean of 0.69 ± 0.20 before to 0.92 ± 0.14 after ablation (p = 0.002). The mean Psychological General Well-Being score improved from 59.8 ± 14.8 at baseline to 84.9 ± 13.6 6 weeks after discharge (p = 0.001). Treadmill exercise duration increased from 6.4 ± 4.6 to 9.9 ± 2.6 minutes (p = 0.03) and correlated strongly with changes in functional capacity measured with the McMaster Health Index (r = 0.70, p = 0.03). These results suggest that catheter ablation of the AV junction and implantation of a rate-adaptive pacemaker significantly improve the quality of life and exercise capacity of patients with paroxysmal AF refractory to medical therapy.
Effective clock-feedthrough reduction in switched capacitor circuits

Techniques for the suppression of clock-feedthrough errors in CMOS switched capacitor circuits, such as differential, quasi-differential, and feedback-based suppression, are described. Example circuits are used to illustrate the techniques and to show how, in proper implementation, systematic errors can be avoided and maximum feedthrough suppression obtained. Simulation results to demonstrate the effectiveness of the described techniques are presented. >
High-Pressure Behavior of Iron Sulfide

A high-temperature diamond-anvil cell has been developed for in situ characterization of material properties at high pressure and temperature. Using this technique, we have studied the phase relations and physical properties of iron sulfide, FeS, up to 30 GPa and 900 K. In situ X-ray diffraction measurements revealed five polymorphs of FeS, which are closely related to a simple NiAs-type hexagonal structure. In addition to confirming the previously observed phase transitions, we observed a new hexagonal phase of FeS with axial ratio (c/a) close to ideal close-packing value of 1.63 at high pressure and high temperature. The compression behavior of this new high P-T phase was studied up to 25 GPa at 500 K, 600 K, and 800 K. There is an abrupt shortening of the c axis at about 6 GPa, which may result from an electronic transition, possibly a spin-pairing transition. The c-axis shortening across the electronic transition means that the high P-T phase has substantially shorter interlayer Fe-Fe distances, which would lead to metallization of FeS at high pressure. Changes in density and chemical bonding of FeS at high pressure and temperature will affect the solution and melting behavior in systems such as Fe-FeS. These changes also have important implications for understanding sulfur-bearing iron-cores of planetary bodies.
Contrast in light intensity, rather than day length, influences the behavior and health of broiler chickens

Day length and intensity are commonly manipulated aspects of the light environment in commercial broiler production. Both influence circadian rhythms, but it is unclear if they do this independently or synergistically. The effect of light:dark (20L:4D, 16L:8D) and intensity contrasts (1 lx:0.5 lx, 200 lx:0.5 lx) on broiler behavior and health (n=1,004, 4 replicates/treatment) was evaluated. Activity was measured using passive infrared detection, and feeding activity was measured by the amount of feed consumed/h over one 24-h period each week. Broilers were gait scored and weighed at 6 wk of age. Following euthanasia, eyes were dissected from 30 birds/treatment. Behavior and performance were analyzed using the GLM, gait score using the Kruskal-Wallis test, and eye measures using a MANOVA. The 200 lx birds were more active (P=0.03) and fed more (P=0.001) during the photophase but were less active (P=0.02) and fed less (P<0.001) during the scotophase, than the 1 lx birds. There were no differences in G:F (mean±SEM, 1.63±0.01 kg of feed/kg of BW). However, 1 lx birds were slightly heavier (2.79±0.01 kg; P=0.02) than 200 lx birds (2.72±0.01 kg). The 200 lx birds had better (P<0.001) mean gait scores than 1 lx birds, although treatment differences were small. One lux birds had greater side-to-side (18.86±0.11 mm vs. 17.63±0.11 mm, P<0.001) and back-to-front (13.39±0.09 mm vs. 12.89±0.09 mm, P<0.001) eye diameters and heavier eyes (2.42±0.03 g vs. 1.99±0.03 g, P<0.001) than 200 lx birds. There was only one effect of light:dark, with 16:8 having greater back-to-front eye diameters than 20:4 (13.30±0.10 mm vs. 13.00±0.10 mm, P=0.02). There were no interactions. These results indicated that light intensity, not day length, was the major factor affecting broiler behavior and health under these lighting conditions. Low contrast light intensity dampened behavioral rhythms and had possible health effects.