cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aerospace Avionics Systems

Avionics systems have become the information backbone of modern Aerospace systems ranging from micro-air vehicle and nano-satellite to jumbo jet and advanced spacecraft. With origins in vacuum-based radios, the rapid evolution of electronics and software has enabled the development and integration of sensing, processing, and communication elements to perform a wide variety of monitoring, control, and communication tasks. This chapter overviews avionics systems for air and space systems, summarizing the functionality, technologies, and interfaces that have evolved. Although mission objectives and avionics designs differ from air to space systems, both rely on a common suite of interdisciplinary technology areas, including electrical engineering (sensors, communication devices, and power systems), computer engineering (processors and networks), software engineering (including validation and verification), control systems engineering (including guidance, navigation, and control), and human factors (cognitive engineering, life support). Training and education concerns are also discussed in the context of preparing engineers and pilots to design and operate next-generation avionics systems. Avionics technologies, existing and emerging, are summarized here at a system-level; further details of avionics subsystem technological capabilities and needs are referenced in other Encyclopedia Chapters (Embedded UAS Autopilot and Sensor Systems through Space Human Factors and Operator Interfaces). Keywords: avionics; automation; embedded systems; sensors; software; flight management
Diffuse radiation as related to global radiation and the Angot value

Almost all studies on diffuse radiation analyzed the empirical relationship between the ratio of diffuse radiation to global radiation (D/G) and the ratio of global radiation to the Angot value (G/I). In this paper the sum of these two ratios, called the transmission-diffusion summation (S), is used to analyze the spatial and seasonal variations of diffuse radiation. The average annual value ofS for 161 stations throughout the world is 0.97. Values in excess of 1.0 are found in the polar regions and in humid tropics. Values ofS below 0.9 are found in semi-arid and arid regions. Composite monthly values ofS are presented for different climatic regimes. The spatial pattern ofD/I ratio is also analyzed.
Multi-person localization via RF body reflections

We have recently witnessed the emergence of RF-based indoor localization systems that can track user motion without requiring the user to hold or wear any device. These systems can localize a user and track his gestures by relying solely on the reflections of wireless signals off his body, and work even if the user is behind a wall or obstruction. However, in order for these systems to become practical, they need to address two main challenges: 1) They need to be able to operate in the presence of more than one user in the environment, and 2) they must be able to localize a user without requiring him to move or change his position. This paper presents WiTrack2.0, a multi-person localization system that operates in multipath-rich indoor environments and pinpoints users' locations based purely on the reflections of wireless signals off their bodies. WiTrack2.0 can even localize static users, and does so by sensing the minute movements due to their breathing. We built a prototype of WiTrack2.0 and evaluated it in a standard office building. Our results show that it can localize up to five people simultaneously with a median accuracy of 11.7 cm in each of the x/y dimensions. Furthermore, WiTrack2.0 provides coarse tracking of body parts, identifying the direction of a pointing hand with a median error of 12.5°, for multiple users in the environment.
A Review Of Grazing Incidence Optics Fabrication Techniques For X-Ray Astronomy

This paper covers the various techniques that are currently being used and developed to fabricate grazing incidence X-ray optics for the energy range from about 0.2 keV to 20 keV. Included will be diamond turning, thin foils, epoxy/carbon fiber replication, electroforming replication, and float glass/Kirkpatrick-Baez techniques.
Chemical Excitation of the Proventriculus of the Polychaete Worm Syllis Spongiphila

1. 1. The myoepithelial cells of the proventriculus of Syllis spongiphila (which are composed of only one or two sarcomeres that may reach 40 μm in length) are innervated by excitatory and inhibitory nerve fibres. Experiments were performed to examine the chemical excitation of these cells. We found that acetylcholine (ACh) mimics the excitatory transmitter and that the postsynaptic receptors appear to be nicotinic. 2. 2. Bath application of ACh (10−5 to 10−4 M), carbamylcholine (Carb, 10−4 to 10−3 M) or nicotine (10−4 to 10−3 M), but not muscarine (10−4 to 10−3 M), elicited overshooting depolarizations followed by prolonged depolarized plateaus. Iontophoresis of ACh or Carb (0.1-1.0 M) elicited depolarizing responses which, when elicited in trains, exhibited increased rise times to peak and decreased amplitudes to a plateau level; these results suggest the occurrence of desensitization of the postsynaptic receptors. Depolarizations elicited by indirect stimulation or by iontophoresis of ACh were reduced in amplitude by D-tubocurarine (10−5 to 5 × 10−4 M) in a dose-related and reversible manner. Atropine (10−6 to 10−4 M) had no effect on responses elicted by indirect stimulation. 3. 3. Small potential changes superimposed on responses to cholinergic agents applied in the bath or iontophoretically were abolished in Ca2+-free ASW, Ca2+-free+1 mM EGTA ASW or in ASW containing 4-6 mM Mn2+. These small potential changes are likely to be from activity in neurones that receive cholinergic synapses. 4. 4. Carb and nicotine applied in the bath consistently induced more overshooting peaks than did ACh, and the plateaus of the responses to ACh were of lower amplitude than those of the responses to Carb. In addition, responses to iontophoretic pulses of ACh were prolonged in the presence of 10−4 and 10−3 neostigmine. These data suggest the presence of an esterase in the nerve-muscle junctions of the proventriculus.
Maintaining high reliability PFN Marxes on DARHT II

The Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test Facility (DARHT) at Los Alamos National Laboratory consists of two linear induction accelerators at right angles to each other. The First Axis produces a nominal 20-MeV, 2 kA single pulse with 60 ns width. In contrast, the DARHT Second Axis produces up to four pulses in a variable pulse format by slicing micro-pulses out of a longer pulse (∼1.6 microseconds flattop) of nominal beam energy and current of 17 MeV and 1.65 kA respectively. Bremsstrahlung x-rays are produced by focusing the electron beam-pulses onto a high-Z target. This paper focuses on the second axis accelerator and maintenance of its components. The injector Marx delivers 2.1 MV to a 6.25 inch diameter thermionic cathode producing a 1.65 kA beam. The beam is accelerated in a Linear Induction Accelerator (LIA) consisting of 74 cells operating at a total of 14.8 MV, delivering a beam of ∼17 MeV and ∼1.6 μs flattop at the accelerator exit. Each cell is driven by an individual Pulse Forming Network Marx (PFN Marx) tuned to provide voltage regulation of +1%. The Axis II LIA uses solenoids for focusing the beam and dipole pairs for steering. Each cell incorporates a solenoid and a pair of dipoles. Including all magnets in between blocks of cells, in the diode anode region and elsewhere, there are 91 solenoids and 80 pairs of dipoles. The ideal energizing currents in the focusing and steering magnets to optimize the electron-beam transport is very dependent on cell gap locations and potential in those gaps. Excessive PFN Marx jitter or a prefire would seriously compromise beam transport and the bremsstrahlung radiographic spot sizes. Low erection time jitter and exceptionally low prefire rates of the 74 PFN Marxes is required to ensure proper transport of the electron beam. The design and maintenance of the four-stage unipolar PFN Marxes are described here for the first time.
Cognitive behavior therapy of endogenous depression: Part 1: An outpatient clinical replication series

A clinical replication series of 38 patients meeting Research Diagnostic Criteria for probable (n=6) or definite (n=32) endogenous depression (ED) were treated in 16 week, 20 session protocol with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Nearly 75% (28/38) of patients met response criteria at the end of the protocol, with robust reductions of symptomatic ratings (p's
Molecular Size Distribution of Lignin in Wood

THE macromolecular structure of lignin in wood is an important object of current controversy. Some workers consider lignin to be a chemically homogeneous, three-dimensional polymer whose molecular size is “infinite”, that is, limited only by the amount present. Others believe that lignin is a finite heteropolymer whose individual molecules differ in molecular size and chemical structure according to their location within wood cell walls. The ability to distinguish between these alternatives requires that lignin be isolated nearly quantitatively from morphologically distinct regions within wood cell walls without significant alteration.
Low-dimensional variable range hopping in conducting polymers

Abstract Highly conducting polymers such as polyaniline and polypyrrole in a dielectrical state have unusually strong temperature of dependence of dynamic conductivity. We argue that this strong temperature dependence is due to the low dimensionality of charge transport in the polymers. The hopping network is formed by fast one-dimensional diffusion along the chains and rare interchain hops. Depending on the chain morphology the network is modeled by a quasi-one-dimensional system of randomly linked chains or by a quasi-one-dimensional chain fractal with dimensionality 1+s, where s≪1. We point out the experimental data for dielectric constant and ac-conductivity that supports these two models.
Semi-inclusive hadron production at DESY HERA: The effect of QCD gluon resummation

We present a formalism that improves the applicability of perturbative QCD in the current region of semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (DIS). The formalism is based on all-order resummation of large logarithms arising in the perturbative treatment of hadron multiplicities and energy flows in this region. It is shown that the current region of semi-inclusive DIS is similar to the region of small transverse momenta in vector boson production at hadron colliders. We use this resummation formalism to describe transverse energy flows and charged particle multiplicity measured at the DESY electron-proton collider HERA. We find good agreement between our theoretical results and experimental data for the transverse energy flows.
PERCUTANEOUS EPIDURAL AND NERVE ROOT BLOCK AND PERCUTANEOUS LUMBAR SYMPATHOLYSIS

Epidural steroids were first used in the treatment of radiculopathy when it was realized that intra-articular steroids were beneficial in the treatment of joint pain. The first reported cases of epidural steroid injection were by Lievre et al 17 in 1953. Goebart et al 14 were the first investigators in the United States to publish a report on epidural steroid injections. They believed that painful nerve root compression syndromes were associated with inflammation and edema and that the beneficial effect of steroids resulted from their strong anti-inflammatory quality. Based on this report and multiple subsequent reports the use of epidural steroids has continued to increase in popularity, especially with the increased use of conservative, nonoperative treatment of back pain.
Massive florid reactive periostitis.

Florid reactive periostitis is a rare, benign process usually occurring in the small, tubular bones of the hands and feet. Typically the lesion occurs in an adolescent or young adult and presents as a small area of pain and erythema over the affected bone. Although the histologic features may suggest malignancy there is usually little radiographic evidence to support such a diagnosis. In the following report an unusual example of this entity is described whose large size and relentless local progression led to initial diagnostic uncertainty and eventual aggressive management. This case suggests that a wide spectrum of radiologic and morphologic changes may be seen in this entity and that a seemingly unrelated genetic disease may alter the typical clinical course.
Serum biomarkers in metastatic renal cell carcinoma

Abstract To identify possible clinically valuable markers of metastatic renalcell carcinoma, we measured the serum concentrations of several commercially available biomarkers in 117 patients with this disease. The alpha fetoprotein level was measured in 75 patients and was elevated in 8 (11 %); elevation did not correlate with the presence of liver metastasis. Beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin levels increased in 8 of 83 patients tested (10 %). C-terminal parathyroid hormone levels were measured in 79 patients and were elevated in 15 (19 %); their serum creatinine level was normal. Thirteen of this group had normal serum calcium levels, whereas 7 patients with hypercalcemia and no clinically evident bone metastasis had normal parathyroid hormone levels. In only 2 of 72 patients, serum lactate dehydrogenase and its isoenzyme 1 were elevated. Only 1 of 85 patients had mildly elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen, in contrast to 3 of 7 patients with metastatic transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis who had moderately elevated carcinoembryonic antigen. Elevations in alpha fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and parathyroid hormone correlated with the course of the disease in 13 patients for whom follow-up measurements were available; measurement of these markers, however, is only useful in a small proportion of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Longevity and Reproduction in Japanese Quail Maintained Under Stimulatory Lighting

Abstract THE effect of senescence have been studied in chickens (Hall and Marble, 1931; Zander et al., 1942) and turkeys (Marsden and Martin, 1955), but little is known about other gallinaceous species. Daniels (1968) observed that nine Japanese quail females kept under continuous light terminated lay at the end of the second year. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of aging on egg laying, fertility, hatchability and mortality of Japanese quail maintained under normal laboratory conditions. METHODS AND MATERIALS Three groups of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), hereafter referred to as coturnix, were hatched in different seasons within 18 months (Table 1). The birds belonged to the Davis Random Line (908). For simplicity the three generations are designated as groups 1, 2, and 3. They were hatched in September, 1964; May, 1965; and February, 1966, respectively. The birds were brooded in commercial 5-deck game bird batteries to…
The simulation of hard x-ray images obtained during lower hybrid current drive on the Princeton Beta Experiment Modification

During lower hybrid current drive on the Princeton Beta Experiment Modification PBX‐M [Bell et al., Phys. Fluids B 2, 1271 (1990)], suprathermal electrons in the 30–150 keV range are generated. These electrons emit hard x‐ray bremsstrahlung in collisions with plasma ions; the radiation creates images in a hard x‐ray pinhole camera. In order to interpret the hard x‐ray images, a computer simulation code has been written; the ‘‘pbxray’’ code, which is described in this paper. The code represents an extension of the Stevens code [Stevens et al., Nucl. Fusion 25, 1529 (1985)], which calculates the free–free and free–bound radiation for non‐Maxwellian relativistic electron tail distributions. The pbxray code provides the chord integration in the bean‐shaped plasma geometry on the PBX‐M tokamak and integrates over photon energy. The simulations show that the location of the suprathermal electrons can be determined with an accuracy of approximately 2 cm in the plasma. In particular, discharges are analyzed whose...
Mechanisms by which amphetamine redistributes dopamine out of vesicles: a computational study.

Computer simulations of dopamine (DA) and amphetamine interactions associated with dopaminergic storage vesicles were developed in order to better explain how amphetamine causes redistribution of DA out of the vesicles. In the model, DA can be transported into vesicles via the vesicular monoamine transporter. Amphetamine competitively inhibits DA uptake either as a substrate for the transporter or by interference with DA binding to the transporter. Both of the amines can passively diffuse across the membrane in both directions, but only the neutral species can cross the membrane in this manner. The abundance of neutral and positive moieties of the amines is governed by the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation. The model reproduces experimentally observed steady-state DA levels in vesicles, vesicles emptying faster after a change of pH inside the vesicle than after a change in access of DA for the vesicular monoamine transporter, and the impact of amphetamine on DA uptake and efflux in a variety of experimental paradigms. The simulations indicate that a small percentage of DA is constantly diffusing out of vesicles and is replaced by DA entering the vesicle by the vesicular monoamine transporter. Low doses of amphetamine cause DA redistribution out of vesicles primarily by inhibiting DA storage while an enhancement of efflux rates as a result of a change in vesicle pH is added at higher concentrations of amphetamine. Synapse 62:370–378, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The progressive in English: Events, states and processes

This paper has two goals. The first is to formulate an adequate account of the semantics of the progressive aspect in English: the semantics of ‘Agatha is making a cake’, as opposed to ‘Agatha makes a cake’. This account presupposes a version of the so-called “Aristotelian” classification of verbs in English into EVENT, PROCESS and STATE verbs. The second goal of this paper is to refine this classification so as to account for the infamous “category switch” problem, the problem of how it is that modification of a verb like ‘run’ by an adverbial like ‘to the store’ can turn a PROCESS phrase (‘run’) into an EVENT phrase (‘run to the store’). Views discussed include those of Aqvist, Bach, Bennett, Bennett and Partee, Dowry, Montague and Scott, and Vendler.
Molecular analysis of the development of the compound eye in Drosophila

In the Drosophila eye, the photoreceptor neurons assume characteristic positions and form precise synaptic connections to the optic ganglia. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms governing the formation of these patterns. In the past, the heterogeneity of neural tissue has been a formidable obstacle to molecular studies. Recombinant DNA and monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) now facilitate the identification and isolation of specific molecules in the developing nervous system. With monoclonal antibodies, anatomical descriptions can be extended to the molecular level. By fusing myeloma cells with the spleen cells of mice immunized with tissue homogenates, one can isolate a set of hybridomas, each secreting an antibody which recognizes a unique determinant present in the initial mixture2. By immunofluorescence microscopy, the tissue distribution and developmental time course of each antigen can be determined. Antigens correlated with specific developmental events or structures can be isolated by using MAbs as selective biochemical reagents. The genes encoding polypeptide antigens can be isolated by recombinant DNA techniques, and mutations in these genes provide a means of determining their functions. In this review, we describe the use of MAbs as molecular probes for studying the development of photoreceptor neurons in the Drosophila eye, and give an example of the application of molecular techniques to the characterization of neuron-specific polypeptide antigens and their genes.
Evidence for a Recombination-Independent Pathway for the Repair of DNA Interstrand Cross-Links Based on a Site-Specific Study with Nitrogen Mustard†

DNA−DNA interstrand cross-links are thought to be important for the cytotoxicity of many chemotherapeutic agents. To study this more definitively, adduct site-specific methods are used to construct a plasmid with a single nitrogen mustard interstrand cross-link (inter-HN2-pTZSV28). Replication efficiency (RE = [colonies from (inter-HN2-pTZSV28)/(control with no cross-link)]) is ∼0.3 following transformation into Escherichia coli, implying that the cross-link is repaired. The commonly accepted pathway for cross-link repair, which involves both nucleotide excision repair (NER) and recombination, is ruled out since RE is ∼0.3 in a ΔrecA strain. Non-RecA-directed recombination such as copy-choice is also unlikely. However, NER is involved since RE was ∼0.02 in strains deficient in NER. Base excision repair is not important since RE is ∼0.3 in strains deficient in 3-methyladenine DNA glycosylases I and II, FAPY DNA glycosylase, both known apurinic/apyrimidinic endonucleases, or DNA deoxyribophosphodiesterase. ...
Assistant Teachers in Head Start Classrooms: Comparing to and Working With Lead Teachers

Research Findings: The purpose of the present study is to examine the degree to which assistant and lead teachers work together in Head Start classrooms in 3 domains: emotional support, classroom organization, and instructional support. Pairs of lead and assistant teachers from 14 Head Start classrooms were simultaneously observed for 1 morning to examine the quality of teachers’ interactions with students in these 3 domains. First we examined the mean levels of the 3 domains and how they differed among teachers. Overall, results indicated moderate levels of emotional support and classroom organization and low levels of instructional support. In comparing lead and assistant teachers, we found that lead teachers offered significantly higher levels of instructional support than assistant teachers. Next we examined how the quality of lead and assistant teachers’ interactions were related over time. Concurrent correlations were nonsignificant. Lagged correlations suggested that lead and assistant teachers’ in...
The fate of deleted DNA produced during programmed genomic deletion events in Tetrahymena thermophila

Thousands of DNA deletion events occur during macronuclear development in the ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila. In two deleted genomic regions, designated M and R, the eliminated sequences form circles that can be detected by PCR. However, the circles are not normal products of the reaction pathway. The circular forms occur at very low levels in conjugating cells, but are stable. Sequencing analysis showed that many of the circles (as many as 50% of those examined) reflected a precise deletion in the M and R regions. The remaining circles were either smaller or larger and contained varying lengths of sequences derived from the chromosomal DNA surrounding the eliminated region. The chromosomal junctions left behind after deletion were more precise, although deletions in either the M or R regions can generate any of several alternative junctions (1). Some new chromosomal junctions were detected in the present study. The results suggest that the deleted segment is released as a linear DNA species that is degraded rapidly. The species is only rarely converted to the stable circles we detect. The deletion mechanism is different from those proposed for deletion events in hypotrichous ciliates (2-4), and does not reflect a conservative site-specific recombination process such as that promoted by the bacteriophage lambda integrase (5).
Intestinal ischemia secondary to thromboangiitis obliterans

A 38-year-old woman presented with a 10-month history of postprandial abdominal pain and weight loss. She smoked two packs of cigarettes a day, but her history did not indicate diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, or hypercoagulability. A lateral aortogram documented complete occlusion of all three mesenteric arteries but showed no evidence of atherosclerosis, arteritis, or medial fibroplasia. Two retrograde aortomesenteric grafts, one to the superior mesenteric artery and another to the meandering mesenteric artery, utilizing the greater saphenous vein were placed. Pathologic examination of the inferior mesenteric artery demonstrated changes that were considered diagnostic of thromboangiitis obliterans. We found only 10 confirmed cases of thromboangiitis obliterans involving the mesenteric vessels in the English language literature. The present case appears to be the first involving a woman and the only one in which the main trunk of all three mesenteric vessels was involved.
Optimization and Validation of FePro Cell Labeling Method

Current method to magnetically label cells using ferumoxides (Fe)-protamine (Pro) sulfate (FePro) is based on generating FePro complexes in a serum free media that are then incubated overnight with cells for the efficient labeling. However, this labeling technique requires long (>12-16 hours) incubation time and uses relatively high dose of Pro (5-6 microg/ml) that makes large extracellular FePro complexes. These complexes can be difficult to clean with simple cell washes and may create low signal intensity on T2* weighted MRI that is not desirable. The purpose of this study was to revise the current labeling method by using low dose of Pro and adding Fe and Pro directly to the cells before generating any FePro complexes. Human tumor glioma (U251) and human monocytic leukemia cell (THP-1) lines were used as model systems for attached and suspension cell types, respectively and dose dependent (Fe 25 to 100 microg/ml and Pro 0.75 to 3 microg/ml) and time dependent (2 to 48 h) labeling experiments were performed. Labeling efficiency and cell viability of these cells were assessed. Prussian blue staining revealed that more than 95% of cells were labeled. Intracellular iron concentration in U251 cells reached approximately 30-35 pg-iron/cell at 24 h when labeled with 100 microg/ml of Fe and 3 microg/ml of Pro. However, comparable labeling was observed after 4 h across the described FePro concentrations. Similarly, THP-1 cells achieved approximately 10 pg-iron/cell at 48 h when labeled with 100 microg/ml of Fe and 3 microg/ml of Pro. Again, comparable labeling was observed after 4 h for the described FePro concentrations. FePro labeling did not significantly affect cell viability. There was almost no extracellular FePro complexes observed after simple cell washes. To validate and to determine the effectiveness of the revised technique, human T-cells, human hematopoietic stem cells (hHSC), human bone marrow stromal cells (hMSC) and mouse neuronal stem cells (mNSC C17.2) were labeled. Labeling for 4 hours using 100 microg/ml of Fe and 3 microg/ml of Pro resulted in very efficient labeling of these cells, without impairing their viability and functional capability. The new technique with short incubation time using 100 microg/ml of Fe and 3 microg/ml of Pro is effective in labeling cells for cellular MRI.
Importance of Knudsen diffusion on benzene vapor transport in unsaturated soil

Abstract Experimental data for unsteady state benzene vapor transport in large (10.5 cm i.d. and 100 cm long) columns packed with dry and wet soil were used to evaluate the importance of Knudsen diffusion. The computed Knudsen diffusion coefficient, DBK, was compared with the molecular diffusion coefficient, Da, for benzene in soil. Since in all cases D B K > D a , it was concluded that benzene diffusion in these soils was dominated by molecular and not Knudsen diffusion. However, Knudsen diffusion may be important in high clay soil or high moisture content soil with air-filled pores of extremely small size. The experimental data were adequately described by the diffusion equation, taking into account local equilibrium for vapor sorption and vapor partitioning into soil moisture.
Trospium chloride for the treatment of overactive bladder with urge incontinence

Background: Urinary incontinence is caused by an overactive bladder, leading to symptoms of urgency, frequency, and incontinence. Urge incontinence occurs predominantly in women as they age. Objectives: This article reviews the current primary literature concerning the efficacy and tolerability of the anticholinergic agent trospium chloride (TC1) in the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge incontinence, urgency, and frequency. The pharmacokinetics of TC1 are also reviewed. Methods: Pertinent articles in English were identified through a search of MEDLINE (1966-present), EMBASE Drugs & Pharmacology (1980-third quarter 2004), Current Contents/Clinical Medicine (week 42, 2003-week 41, 2004), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MICROMEDEX Healthcare Series, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-present). The search terms were overactive bladder urinary incontinence, trospium, randomized controlled clinical trial, oxybutynin, tolterodine, scopolamine, imipramine, desipramine, and propanthetine. Results: TCI, a quaternary amine, exhibits high solubility in water but low oral bioavailability (9.6%) and poor central nervous system penetration. Approximately 80% of the absorbed fraction is renally eliminated as unchanged drug via active tubular secretion, with -15% hepatically metabolized into a spiroalcohol and hydrolysis/oxidation products. In 3 placebocontrolled studies, patients who received TC1 had an increase in maximum bladder filling capacity and bladder compliance, with a reduction in maximum cystometric capacity (P < 0.005); however, only 1 of these studies showed an increase in bladder compliance, with reductions in maximum detrusor pressure (P < 0.001), number of voids/d (P < 0.001), and incontinence episodes/d (P < 0.001). In another placebo-controlled study, TCI reduced the number of voids/d and incontinence episodes/d (both, P < 0.001). In 2 double-blind studies, TCI and oxybutynin were similarly effective in significantly increasing maximum cystometric capacity and bladder compliance, and in significantly reducing maximum detrusor pressure compared with baseline (all, P < 0.001); there were no significant differences between the 2 treatments at end point. In a third doubleblind study comparing TCI and tolterodine with placebo, only TC1 significantly reduced the frequency of micturitions/d (P = 0.01). Commonly reported adverse effects in patients receiving TC1 included dry mouth, constipation, and headache. Conclusions: In the 7 studies reviewed, TC1 was effective and well tolerated in patients with urge incontinence caused by idiopathic detrusor muscle overactivity or neurogenic detrusor overactivity resulting from spinal cord injury. However, this agent was associated with anticholinergic adverse effects similar to those of other anticholinergic agents; careful monitoring of tolerability is required. (Ctin Tber. 2005;27:511-53 O) Copyright © 2005 Excerpta Medica, Inc.
LCAT can Rescue the Abnormal Phenotype Produced by the Natural ApoA-I Mutations (Leu141Arg)Pisa and (Leu159Arg)FIN†

To explain the etiology and find a mode of therapy of genetically determined low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), we have generated recombinant adenoviruses expressing apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I)(Leu141Arg)Pisa and apoA-I(Leu159Arg)FIN and studied their properties in vitro and in vivo. Both mutants were secreted efficiently from cells but had diminished capacity to activate lecithin/cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in vitro. Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of either of the two mutants in apoA-I-deficient (apoA-I-/-) mice resulted in greatly decreased total plasma cholesterol, apoA-I, and HDL cholesterol levels. The treatment also decreased the cholesteryl ester to total cholesterol ratio (CE/TC), caused accumulation of prebeta1-HDL and small size alpha4-HDL particles, and generated only few spherical HDL particles, as compared to mice expressing wild-type (WT) apoA-I. Simultaneous treatment of the mice with adenoviruses expressing either of the two mutants and human LCAT normalized the plasma apoA-I, HDL cholesterol levels, and the CE/TC ratio, restored normal prebeta- and alpha-HDL subpopulations, and generated spherical HDL. The study establishes that apoA-I(Leu141Arg)Pisa and apoA-I(Leu159Arg)FIN inhibit an early step in the biogenesis of HDL due to inefficient esterification of the cholesterol of the prebeta1-HDL particles by the endogenous LCAT. Both defects can be corrected by treatment with LCAT.
A structurally driven spectral transform Lanczos method for mixed quantum—classical canonical simulations (MQCC): the thermodynamics of Kr10–H and the energies of Krn–H, (n:1→9)

Abstract We develop and test an approximate approach for canonical simulations of weakly bound atomic or molecular systems for which some degrees of freedom can be treated separately by quantum mechanics. The system chosen for testing is Kr 10 –H, for which the adiabatic approximation applied to separate the hydrogen degrees of freedom works reasonably well. The hydrogen atom is bound to the Kr clusters at cold temperatures and we calculate several bound states for clusters in the n =1–9 range, in the global minimum configuration. The structural character of the mixed quantum classical simulation is substantially different than the classical simulation for Kr 10 –H as a result of zero point energy effects. When quantum effects are included, the low temperature dynamics of Kr 10 –H are dominated by a significant well to well hopping about an incomplete icosahedral krypton core.
Transfer of Development Rights: An Analysis of a New Land Use Policy Tool: Comment

In view of the large number of innovative land preservation measures that have recently been proposed, Barrows and Prenguber's attempt to identify possible economic problems of a transferable development rights (TDR) program is both interesting and timely. Their discussion, however, enumerates a number of problems that appear to make such a program virtually unworkable. The TDR program as conceived by the authors hardly compares favorably to other preservation measures being considered by planners and policy makers across the country (Bryant, Sargent). Many of the problems specified by Barrows and Prenguber (B&P) are not necessarily inherent in the TDR program per se but rather result from the assumptions and restrictions they employ. Following some specific criticisms of the B&P arguments, a static model is offered in an attempt to suggest more realistic problems and research needs concerning implementation of TDR programs. The major criticism that B&P offer is that fair or full compensation would not be guaranteed to restricted land owners under a TDR program. Other criticisms center upon potential monopoly problems, forecasting locational demands, timing problems, and discontinuous supply curves. B&P's discussion of these problems is somewhat incorrect. They base most of their objections to a TDR program upon a rather limited analysis of a highway interchange system and then generalize from that analysis to criticize any TDR program. The weakness of some of their arguments results from this extrapolation. B&P mention two problems on the supply side: the monopoly potential and the possibility of a noncontinuous supply curve. Both of these problems are moot. For a monopoly to form, an individual entity would have to gain nearly total control of the TDR supply. But it is difficult to believe that a potential monopolist could convince all holders of TDR to sell to him. Besides, market regulation could be designed to preclude such an occurrence. It is therefore unclear why the potential for monopoly in aT DR program is greater than it would be in the normal land market. Why is a noncontinuous supply curve a special problem? The authors suggest that market uncertainties would result in a noncontinuous supply curve because some DR owners would hold their
A Review of the Theories to Explain Arctic and Alpine Treelines Around the World

Forest growth is restricted at high latitudes and high elevations, and the limits of tree growth in these environments are dramatically marked by the treeline transition from vertical, erect tree stems to prostrate, stunted shrub forms. However, after 4 centuries of research, there is still debate over the precise mechanism that causes Arctic and alpine treelines. We review the various theories for treeline, including excessive light, low partial pressure of CO2, snow depth, wind exposure, reproductive failure, frost drought, and temperature. Some of these theories are very old and are no longer held in high esteem; while they may help to explain treeline physiognomy or local variation in treeline position, they generally fail as global explanations. Temperature-based theories appear to be the most reasonable, since cold temperature is really the only trait that is universally characteristic of treelines around the world. Temperature may limit a variety of physiological processes, such as carbon fixation,...
Ceramic to Metal Attachment Using Low Modulus BRUNSBOND® Pad

BRUNSBOND® Pad is a low modulus sintered fiber metal material developed for attaching high temperature ceramic coatings to metal substrates. The fiber metal pad acts as a compliant strain absorbing interlayer to accomodate the differences in thermal expansivity and operating temperature between the ceramic and metal substrate. Ceramic coatings, 0.060 – 0.125 in. thick, remain intact on metal substrates through severe multiple cycle thermal excursions. The fiber metal pad is comparable in insulating value to the ceramic coating. Applications include ceramic thermal barrier coatings for high temperature gas turbine engine seals and combustors, MHD electrodes, and internal combustion engine insulators.
The cardiac antiarrhythmic effects of polyunsaturated fatty acid

Each year in the United States alone some 250,000 persons die within one hour of an acute myocardial infarction. These deaths are largely due to ischemia-induced ventricular arrhythmias, primarily ventricular fibrillation (VF). Thus a safe, simple means of preventing such arrhythmias has considerable public health benefit potential. We have demonstrated that the intravenous infusion of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from fish oils will prevent ischemia-induced VF in prepared, nonanesthetized, exercising dogs, confirming earlier feeding studies in rats. We show that this protective effect is due to an action of the free acidic form of the PUFA to alter the electrophysiology of individual cardiac myocyte so that the cells are electrically more stable. The electrophysiologic effects, in turn, result from direct and specific effects of the PUFA to block the fast voltage-dependent sodium channels. The binding of the free fatty acids is directly to the protein of the sodium channels and results in prolongation of the inactivated state of these channels. Other ion channels are also affected by the PUFA. Two clinical trials with n-3 PUFA are mentioned which inadvertently support the antiarrhythmic potential of PUFA ingestion.
Familial syringomyelia: Case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND Syringomyelia is an uncommon disease of the spinal cord, occurring sporadically. However, rare familial cases with autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance patterns are reported and their incidence quoted as approximately 2%. Only one previous report originated from the United States. METHODS We present a brother and sister with syringomyelia and associated Chiari type I malformation ; both patients responded to surgical treatment. We review the world literature and briefly discuss pathogenetic theories of syringomyelia as well as the relevance of the histocompatibility leukocyte antigen profile. RESULTS Both genetic and environmental factors appear to be involved in familial syringomyelia. CONCLUSION We recommend that close relatives of patients affected with familial syringomyelia undergo routine neurologic and radiologic surveys.
The Medicine of Music: A Systematic Approach for Adoption Into Perianesthesia Practice

Patients awaiting surgical procedures often experience anxiety in anticipation of events that are uncomfortable, uncertain, and may include a health risk. High levels of anxiety result in negative physiological manifestations. Sedatives are regularly administered before surgery to reduce patient anxiety. However, sedatives often have negative side effects such as drowsiness and respiratory depression, and may interact with anesthetic agents, prolonging patient recovery and discharge. Therefore, increasing attention is being paid to a variety of nonpharmacological interventions for the reduction of preoperative anxiety. Music has been used in different medical fields to meet physiological, psychological, and spiritual needs of patients. It is a relatively inexpensive modality to implement, with low risk of side effects and possible significant benefits. This review was conducted with the intent to educate perianesthesia health care providers regarding the value of music therapy and provide guidelines for implementation, based on a comprehensive review of the literature.
Use of human tissue explants to study human infectious agents

The study of human cell-cell and cell-pathogen interactions that occur in the context of complex tissue cytoarchitecture is critical for deciphering the mechanisms of many normal and pathogenic processes. This protocol describes methods for culturing and infecting explants of human tissues to study the pathogenesis of human infectious agents and their local interactions. The protocol relies on the use of fresh human tissues dissected into small blocks or biopsies that are cultured at the liquid-air interface on collagen rafts. These tissue blocks retain their cytoarchitecture and support productive infection of various pathogens without exogenous stimulation. Experimental details for setting up cultures of human tonsils, lymph nodes and cervicovaginal and rectosigmoid tissues, including protocols for their infection with HIV-1 and other pathogens, are described here. Using this protocol, culture and infections can be set up in 3-6 h and be maintained for 2-3 weeks, depending on the tissue used.
Seasonal Affective Disorder, Grief Reaction, and Adjustment Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder is a subtype of other affective disorders. The most studied treatment is light therapy, although second-generation antidepressants are also an option. Grief reactions are normal for patients experiencing loss, and primary care providers (PCPs) should be aware of both the expected course of grief and the more severe symptoms that indicate complex grief. Adjustment disorder is a time-limited abnormal response to a stressor. PCPs can manage patients with adjustment disorder by arranging counseling, screening for suicidality, assessing for substance abuse, and ruling out other psychiatric diagnoses. At present there are no reliable data to suggest medication management.
Conductance fluctuations in a quantum dot in the tunneling regime: Crossover from aperiodic to regular behavior

Abstract We discuss magnetoconductance fluctuations in a ∼ 1 microm GaAS/AlxGa1−xAs quantum dot in the shape of a chaotic stadium billiard with point contact leads. Here we emphasize measurements carried out in the tunneling regime, where each lead carries less than one fully conducting channel. We discuss various crossover phenomena as the magnetoconductance fluctuations evolve from aperiodic structure at low fields (B ≲ 0.5 T) into periodic, Aharonov-Bohm-like oscillations at higher fields.
Magnetization-orientation dependence of the superconducting transition temperature in the ferromagnet-superconductor-ferromagnet system: CuNi/Nb/CuNi.

The superconducting critical temperature (${T}_{c}$) of ferromagnet-superconductor-ferromagnet systems has been predicted to exhibit a dependence on the magnetization orientation of the ferromagnetic layers such that ${T}_{c}^{\mathrm{A}\mathrm{P}}g{T}_{c}^{P}$ for parallel ($P$) and antiparallel (AP) configurations of the two ferromagnetic layers. We have grown $\mathrm{C}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{N}\mathrm{i}/\mathrm{N}\mathrm{b}/\mathrm{C}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{N}\mathrm{i}$ films via magnetron sputtering and confirmed the theoretical prediction by measuring the resistance of the system as a function of temperature and magnetic field. We find an $\ensuremath{\sim}25%$ resistance drop occurs near ${T}_{c}$ in ${\mathrm{C}\mathrm{u}}_{0.47}{\mathrm{N}\mathrm{i}}_{0.53}(5\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{n}\mathrm{m})/\mathrm{N}\mathrm{b}(18)/\mathrm{C}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{N}\mathrm{i}(5)$ when the two CuNi layers change their magnetization directions from parallel to antiparallel, whereas there is no corresponding resistance change in the normal state.
Use of a Rapid HIV Home Test Prevents HIV Exposure in a High Risk Sample of Men Who Have Sex With Men

The study assessed whether at-risk HIV-uninfected men who have sex with men (MSM) who never or rarely use condoms and have multiple partners would use a rapid, oral fluid, HIV home test (HT) to screen potential sexual partners. Participants received 16 HT kits, were monitored weekly for 3 months, and then interviewed in depth. Twenty-seven ethnically diverse MSM used HT kits before intercourse with approximately 100 partners in private and public spaces. Testing had high acceptability among ethnic minority participants. Ten tested individuals received HIV-antibody positive results. Seven were potential sexual partners, and three were acquaintances of the participants; six of the ten were unaware of their status. No sexual intercourse took place after positive tests. Very few problems occurred. Most participants strongly desired to continue using HT and to buy it freely. HT use results in detection of previously unknown infections. Making HT available within networks where high-risk sexual practices are common may be a cost-efficient and effective prevention method.
Influence of demographic variables in prehospital treatment of patients with chest pain.

Objective. To determine whether the number of interventions requested by EMS personnel for patients with acute, nontraumatic chest pain varied with the patient's gender or race.Methods. The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of the care requested for patients 17 years old or older complaining of acute, nontraumatic chest pain by one EMS squad in a city of 50,000 people over a six-month period. Interventions recorded for each patient included oxygen administration, artificial airway placement, intravenous fluid administration, defibrillation, and use of lidocaine and nitroglycerin.Results. Of the 169 patients in this study, 54% (n = 92) were white and 56% (n = 95) were female. Age was missing for two patients; of the remainder, 75% (n = 127) were 40 years old or older. The numbers of interventions requested ranged from 0 to 4. EMS personnel requested supplemental oxygen for 163 patients. 81% of the females had IV lines placed or attempted, compared with 70% of the males; EMS personnel requested...
Hydroxylated Polymethoxyflavones and Methylated Flavonoids in Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peel

Polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) from citrus genus have been of particular interest because of their broad spectrum of biological activities, including antiinflammatory, anticarcinogenic, and antiatherogenic properties. There have been increasing interests in the exploration of health beneficial properties of PMFs in citrus fruits. Therefore, the isolation and characterization of PMFs from sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel will lead to new applications of the byproducts from orange juice processes and other orange consumption in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products. In our study, eight hydroxylated PMFs, six PMFs, one polymethoxyflavanone, one hydroxylated polymethoxyflavanone, and two hydroxylated polymethoxychalcones were isolated from sweet orange peel and their structures were elucidated by various MS, UV, and different NMR techniques. Some of the hydroxylated PMFs and chalcones are newly isolated from sweet orange peel.