cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diffraction tomography for multi-monostatic ground penetrating radar imaging

A generalized diffraction tomographic (DT) algorithm is derived for subsurface imaging from multifrequency multi-monostatic ground penetrating radar (GPR) data. The algorithm is based on the Born approximation for vector electromagnetic scattering and incorporates realistic nearfield models for the receiving and transmitting antennas. The forward scattering model is inverted analytically using the regularized pseudoinverse operator to yield an algorithm for imaging the underground region based on scattered field measurements at a set of receiving antennas. Whereas the usual inversion algorithms of DT require a lossless background medium and ideal point sources and receivers, the algorithm described here allows an attenuating background and arbitrary transmitting and receiving antennas. The algorithm places no restrictions on the radar frequency, and can thus include shallow imaging applications where the wavelengths are on the same order as the depth of buried objects of interest. Versions of the algorithm are given for both the three dimensional and the 2.5-dimensional cases. Results are given of computer simulations designed to test the algorithm.
Incorporation of Sb in GaAs1−xSbx (x<0.15) by molecular beam epitaxy

The composition of MBE-grown GaAs1-xSbx (x<0.15) is investigated as a function of growth temperature for constant As and Sb flux and as a function of Sb effusion cell temperature for a fixed growth temperature. Under conditions of constant As and Sb flux, x remains fairly constant for growth temperatures of 480-540°C, but decreases rapidly with increasing temperature in the range 540-640°C. As a function of Sb effusion cell temperature, the Sb mole fraction is shown to increase slightly slower than the Sb vapour pressure.
Strategies in Classroom Management

Teaching—always a challenging profession —has, in today's complex society, become even more difficult. Large classes, sophisticated students, legal constraints, all compound the problems of dealing with student misbehavior. Today's teacher must be well-prepared to deal with problems, this author believes. He outlines six strategies that constitute a basic plan for classroom management.
Catalytic hydrodemetallation of nickel porphyrins: I. Porphyrin structure and reactivity

Abstract The kinetics and mechanism of hydrodemetallation reactions and the pattern of metal deposition have been investigated using a model residuum oil, consisting of nickel porphyrins (Ni-etioporphyrin, Ni-tetraphenylporphyrin, and Ni-tetra(3-methylphenyl)porphyrin) dissolved in a mineral oil and reacted over an unsulfided CoMo Al 2 O 3 catalyst at 285–345 °C and 4.58–10.09 MPa H2 (650–1450 psig). The porphyrins react via a sequential mechanism, first involving hydrogenation of peripheral double bonds, followed by the final hydrogenolysis step which fragments the ring and removes the metal. Porphyrin molecular structure exerts, through chemical and steric effects, an impact on this reaction pathway. For Ni-etioporphyrin, there is one hydrogenated reaction intermediate and the rate-limiting step is initial hydrogenation. For Ni-tetra(3-methylphenyl)porphyrin, there are three reaction intermediates and the rate-limiting step is final hydrogenolysis and ring opening. Temperature and hydrogen pressure dependencies of the kinetic parameters have been determined. The rate constants are invariant of nickel concentrations from 16 to 90 ppm. Nickel-deposition profiles generated under diffusion-limited conditions in 1.5-mm extrudates have been successfully modeled using intrinsic kinetic parameters obtained with crushed catalysts and diffusivities on the order of 10−6 cm2/sec.
Ortner’s syndrome as a presenting feature of giant cell arteritis

Hoarseness due to left recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (LRLN) caused by identifiable cardiovascular disease is described as Ortner’s syndrome or cardiovocal syndrome. This was first reported by Ortner in 1897 to describe left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy secondary to mitral stenosis. This case report describe a patient with giant cell arteritis with initial presentation of Ortner’s syndrome.
Cavernous angiomas of the cauda equina: case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND Cavernous hemangiomas of the spine and spinal cord are relatively uncommon lesions that are being discovered more frequently because of the increased use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present a rare case of a symptomatic cavernous hemangioma of the cauda equina. CASE DESCRIPTION A 49-year-old woman presented to our institution with the chief complaint of low back pain of acute onset. On physical examination the patient was found to be tender to percussion over the lumbar spine, had tenderness over the sciatic nerve, loss of pinprick sensation over the right lateral foot and loss of the Achilles' reflex on the right. In addition, she was found to have a large postvoid urinary bladder residual volume. MRI revealed a 20 mm x 11 mm nonenhancing, heterogenous mass obliterating the spinal canal at the L4 level. At operation, this lesion was found to be adherent to the nerve roots and was completely resected. Pathology revealed this lesion to be a cavernous angioma of the cauda equina. A review of the pertinent literature is presented. CONCLUSIONS Cavernous hemangiomas of the cauda equina are extremely rare lesions that may present as low back pain, neurologic deficit, or as subarachnoid hemorrhage. They can be successfully treated with surgical excision.
II. Comparative extraction of Houston Air Particulates with cyclohexane or a mixture of benzene, methanol, and dichloromethane.

A recent study (see preceding article) was conducted to evaluate bacterial mutagenicity of extracted particulates collected from air in Houston, Texas. Initially the solvent system used to extract these particulates was the 1:1:1 v/v mixture of benzene, methanol, and dichloromethane used by Pitts et al [1] in a similar study in California. Because of recent concern about the genetic toxicity of benzene, efforts are being made, where possible, to substitute other solvents, and a suggestion was made to try cyclohexane. The recent National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) documents on exposure to coal tar [2] and to asphalt fumes [3] have recommended use of cyclohexane to extract air samples from occupationally exposed air filters. In addition, recent publications [4–6] have used cyclohexane to extract polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and aliphatic hydrocarbons from particulate air samples. A study done by Stanley et al [7] found cyclohexane almost 100% efficient at extracting benzo(a)pyrene. The present study was designed to examine the difference in efficiency of extraction between cyclohexane and a 1:1:1 mixture of benzene, methanol, and dichloromethane, using the Ames assay as a test for mutagenicity.
e-Moderating: the key to teaching and learning online

e-Moderating: The Key to Teaching and Learning Online, now in its third edition, was first published in 2000. The author, Professor Gilly Salmon, has been involved in e-learning for over 20 years a...
Characteristics of Woody Cover Used by Brown Madtoms and Pirate Perch in Coastal Plain Streams

Abstract We measured or described microhabitat characteristics of woody debris accumulations (i.e., structural complexity, cavity space, stein diameter, suspended and benthic leaves, depth, inside and outside flow, undercut bank, and lateral position) found in headwater coastal plain streams of central Louisiana. Debris characteristics at sites used as diurnal cover by adult brown madtoms Noturus phaeus and pirate perch Aphredoderus sayanus were compared with characteristics at unoccupied debris sites. Woody debris used by brown madtoms was characterized as having greater cavity space, structural complexity, and suspended leaves. Additionally, brown madtoms more frequently occupied debris areas located beneath undercut banks or next to areas of high flow. Of all the habitat variables, undercut bank and cavity space showed the strongest relationship with the presence of brown madtoms in woody debris. Brown madtoms demonstrated no significant difference in use of debris characteristics between small (34–83 ...
A model for resource allocation in complex hierarchies

Abstract Most models of resource allocation activity usually assume either a black box or a simple pyramidal hierarchy of black boxes as the organizational context for decision making. However, there are a number of resource allocation activities that take place in more complex hierarchies. These cases have been slighted by researchers, in part, because of a lack of practicable models. This paper presents a multiple-criterion resource allocation model specifically directed towards non-pyramidal hierarchies and other more complex organizational structures. A number of examples are discussed and a numerical example is presented.
Abstract 2308: Selective targeting of HeLa cervical cancer cells using folate receptor targeting drug loaded PLGA-lipid hybrid nanoparticles

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL The response rate of breast cancer to first line chemotherapies is encouraging, but 20-30% of patients develop chemoresistance to these drugs, and consequently, have a cancer reoccurrence 7-10 months after their last treatment. Chemoresistance is believed to be due to drug efflux proteins responsible for the removal of many commonly used anti-neoplastic agents. One possible way to overcome these drug efflux pumps is to give higher doses of chemotherapy, but high doses of such agents commonly lead to chemocytotoxicity. Targeted PLGA-Lipid hybrid nanoparticle (NP) drug delivery systems have been developed that can deliver high doses of chemotherapy agents specifically to breast cancer cells. A practical cancer targeting drug delivery system will reduce the overall amount of chemotherapy agents given to patients for a given amount of targeted NPs endocytosed by cancer cells. Biodegradable NPs were synthesized using a novel nano-precipitation lipid-polymer hybrid platform which also allows for the encapsulation of hydrophobic chemotherapy drugs within the NPs. Using this method, drug free NPs have been shown to have an average diameter size of 81.78 nm (PDI: 0.25), while single loaded NPs, with Paclitaxel or Doxorubicin, show an average size between 72.33 to 89.64 nm (PDI: 0.242 to 0.339), signifying that the synthesis technique creates consistent sub 100nm particles. The majority of all NPs show a zeta-potential value of > -30 mV consistent with the NPs having sufficient repulsive interaction to be mono-dispersed in solution under physiological conditions. Folate receptors are often over expressed on the surfaces of cancer cells; therefore, folic acid was incorporated to the surface of these NPs as a cancer targeting ligand. Previous studies have shown that HeLa cells, a cervical cancer cell line, over expresses folate receptors. Immunofluorescence studies show that folic acid coated PLGA-Lipid hybrid NPs are readily endocytosed by HeLa cells compared to non-targeted NPs. Cytoxicity studies will determine the increased effectiveness of drug delivery with targeted PLGA-Lipid hybrid NPs vs. untargeted PLGA-Lipid hybrid NP in cell lines and in animal models. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2308. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2308
SLT device metallurgy and its monolithic extension

The glass-passivated, face-down semiconductor chip joining technology employeidn IBM's SLT (Solid Logic Technology), has become not only a fundamental element in the hybrid circuitry of System/360 but also the basis for later metallurgical designs. The "flip-chip," copper ball terminal, solder reflow technique is comprehensively reviewed and a discussion is given of its extension, through the use of ductile, all-solder terminals, to monolithic applications.
MgO-supported CO hydrogenation catalysts derived from [H3ReOs3(CO)13]

Abstract Magnesia-supported catalysts were prepared from [Os 3 (CO) 12 ], [H 3 Re 3 (CO) 12 ], a combination of the two, and [H 3 ReOs 3 (CO) 13 ]. The catalysts were tested for hydrogenation of CO in a flow reactor, the surface structures were characterized by infrared spectroscopy and wet chemical extraction (cation metathesis), and the used catalysts were investigated with transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The catalysts all lost activity during operation; the catalyst made from the triosmium cluster lost activity as a result of being converted into the inactive [OS 10 C(CO) 24 ] 2− , as observed previously. The catalyst made from the bimetallic cluster lost activity less rapidly than the others, and the IR spectra indicate that formation of the decaosmium cluster had been prevented by Re, which was present near the Os particles in the used catalyst. In contrast, when [Os 3 (CO) 12 ] and [H 3 Re 3 (CO) 12 ] were used in combination, the formation Of [Os 10 C(CO) 24 ] 2− took place, the deactivation was relatively rapid, and there was negligible Re in the immediate neighborhood of the Os particles. Evidently, Re remote from the Os exerted no stabilizing effect. These results indicate an advantage of having the two metals initially bonded to each other in the catalyst precursor.
Toward an Agenda for Research on Evaluation

Using Christie's research as an example, the authors describe a variety of forms that a more evidence-based approach to evaluation theory could take and offer some suggestions to help increase the amount and impact of evidence in evaluation theory.
Clinically Relevant Biomarkers to Select Patients for Targeted Inhibitor Therapy after Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a vascular tumor that proliferates through angiogenic pathways mediated, in part, by vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) α and β. We hypothesized that overexpression of these proteins is associated with decreased survival after resection. A total of 57 patients, with available tissue for analysis, who underwent liver resection for HCC between August 2000 and March 2008 at a single institution were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Tumor specimens were assessed with immunohistochemistry for VEGFR2, PDGFR-α, and PDGFR-β expression and were graded by an experienced pathologist. Primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Median patient age was 64 years; 65% (n = 37) were male. Median follow-up was 24.5 months, and median OS was 25.5 months. Median tumor size and number were 7 cm and 1, respectively. Macro and microvascular invasion was present in 9% (n = 5) and 42% (n = 24) of patients, respectively. Seventy-five percent of patients had tumors exceeding Milan criteria. 9% had positive resection margins. Thirty-five percent of patients had cirrhosis and the median nonadjusted Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was 7.5. Tumors exhibited differential expression of VEGFR2 (low: 79%, high: 21%), PDGFR-α (low: 93%, high: 7%), and PDGFR-β (low: 96%, high: 4%). After excluding all 30-day deaths (n = 7), high PDGFR-α and PDGFR-β expression were independently associated with decreased OS (8.7 vs 29.1 months, P = 0.01; 2.8 vs 28.8 months, P < 0.001; respectively). High VEGFR2 expression displayed a trend toward decreased OS (20.8 vs 27.5 months, P = 0.2). When adjusted for tumor burden, vascular invasion, margin status, and MELD score on independent multivariate analyses, both PDGFR-α and -β high expression were independently associated with decreased survival. High expression of PDGFR-α and PDGFR-β may be independently associated with decreased OS irrespective of margin status, MELD score, and tumor extent. This finding may help to select patients who would benefit from targeted inhibitor therapy in the adjuvant setting.
Ex vivo expansion of natural killer cells for clinical applications

Background Immunotherapy with NK cells has been limited by the inability to obtain sufficient numbers of pure NK cells suitable for manipulation and expansion. The goal of this study was to isolate CD56 + cells (CD3 − /CD56 + , CD3 + /CD56 + ) and expand them under culture conditions compliant with current good manufacturing practices. Methods Magnetic cell-selection technology, using paramagnetic CD56 microbe-ads and cell selection columns, was used to isolate a CD56 + population containing both CD3 − /56 + NK (30.4±10.8%) and CD3 + /56 + NK T cells (30.4±8.6%) to initiate the expansion studies. The isolated CD56 + cells were cultured in X-Vivo10 serum-free media supplemented with 10% human AB serum and 500U/mL recombinant human IL-2 or 500U/mL IL-2 plus 10ng/mL recombinant human IL-15 for 14 days. Cultures were fed fresh media and cytokines every 3–4 days, and were evaluated for cell expansion, phenotype, and cytotoxicity at the end of the culture period. Results Significant expansion of CD56 cells occurred only during the second week of culture. Although an average of two log expansions was observed, there was substantial cell-expansion variability, depending on the donor, and even when the same donor was tested on different occasions. The cytotoxicity of selected and expanded CD56 + cells at a low E: T ratio was significantly higher than the starting population, but was comparable to non-separated PBMC expanded for 2 weeks under the same conditions. IL-15 (in combination with IL-2) induced higher killing at the 1:1 E: T ratio than IL-2 alone. Since CD3 cells were not depleted upfront, the expansion of CD3 + CD56 + cells was 2–3 times that of CD3 − CD56 + cells. NK cells that express the FcγRIII (CD16) can mediate Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and can contribute to enhanced efficacy of MAb treatment. Under the given culture conditions, only moderate expansion of CD56 + /CD3 − /CD16 + cells occurred, with the majority of cells being CD56 + /CD3 + /CD16 + cells. Discussion Our studies suggest that the positive magnetic cell-separation method provides a good basis for obtaining enriched CD56 + cells but expansion conditions need to be optimized.
Ikaros: the enhancer makes the difference.

In this issue of Blood , Yoshida et al present a detailed evaluation of the transcriptional regulation of Ikzf1 (Ikaros) expression during hematopoiesis.[1][1] ![Figure][2] Ikzf1 enhancer-promoter interactions during hematopoiesis. Lineage and/or stage associated transcription factor binding
The isolation of cyclic adenosine 3′:5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) from lakes of differing trophic status: Correlation with planktonic metabolic variables1

The seasonal dynamics of particulate and dissolved cyclic adenosine 3':5'-monophosphate (cAMP) were examined in the epilimnia and littoral zones of two trophically dissimilar lakes. Each cAMP fraction was found in quantities comparable to those reported for cultured phytoplankton species. Both cAMP fractions varied greatly in concentration during the season and between the oligotrophic and hypereutrophic lakes. Increases in phytoplankton community densities were paralleled by weight-specific changes in particulate cAMP levels, depending on the phytoplankton species present. A linear relationship between cellular cAMP levels and in situ primary productivity rates was found in the oligotrophic lake. In both lakes, certain phytoplanktonic associations had particulate cAMP levels linearly related to chlorophyll a content and specific activity of alkaline phosphatase.
Elevation of auditory thresholds by spontaneous cochlear oscillations

THEinner ear sometimes acts as a robust sound generator, continuously broadcasting sounds (spontaneous otoacoustic emissions) which can be intense enough to be heard by other individuals standing nearby1–4. Paradoxically, most individuals are unaware of the sounds generated within their ears. Two hypotheses could explain this paradox: (1) the spontaneous emissions may not be transmitted to the central nervous system; or (2) the spontaneous emission produces a continuous, high rate of neural activity, which, like the natural pattern of spontaneous activity, is ignored by the central nervous system. Here we demonstrate that high-intensity spontaneous otoacoustic emissions can vigorously activate auditory nerve fibres in mammals (Chinchilla laniger). This 'internal biological noise' creates a Mine busy' signal that significantly degrades a neuron's ability to respond to sound and results in a hearing loss completely different from that caused by damage to sensory cells1,4.
Fatigue crack growth along planar slip bands

Abstract Fatigue crack propagation along planar slip bands under a mixed mode loading is analyzed based on the micromechanical theory of fatigue crack nucleation proposed previously by the authors. Fatigue damage is systematically accumulated within the slip bands with increasing dislocation dipoles and the resulting strain energy density to be a critical value yields crack growth. The propagation rate is given as the crack growth distance in each step divided by the number of cycles to the formation of a new crack ahead of the old crack. The range of cyclic shear stress in a mixed mode acting on the slip plane directly controls the rate of damage accumulation, and the normal stress component provides an additional strain energy release to accelerate fatigue crack growth. The material parameters involved in the theory are the grain size, the dislocation friction stress, and the specific fracture energy. The theory is applied to Stage I fatigue crack growth observed in high-strength alloys, and it is further extended to the near-threshold growth of a long fatigue crack.
Hydrologic and nutrient response of groundwater to flooding of cranberry farms in southeastern Massachusetts, USA

Summary Seasonal flooding of cranberry farms is essential for commercial production of cranberries in southeastern Massachusetts, with close to 90% of growers using a flood for harvesting and winter protection. Although periodic flooding results in increased groundwater recharge, it may also exacerbate subsurface transport of dissolved forms of nitrogen and phosphorus. Given the paucity of information on groundwater exchange with cranberry floodwaters, hydrometric measurements were used to solve for the residual term of groundwater recharge in water budgets for three cranberry farms during the harvest and winter floods. Combined with continuous monitoring of water-table depth and discrete sampling of groundwater for analysis of nitrate (NO3−), ammonium (NH4+), and total dissolved phosphorus (TDP), values of groundwater recharge were used to evaluate the hydrologic and nutrient response of groundwater to flooding of cranberry farms. Mean values of groundwater recharge were 11 (±6) and 47 (±11) cm for the harvest and winter floods, respectively (one standard deviation in parentheses). The factor-of-four difference in ground recharge was related to flood holding times that, on average, were twenty days longer for the winter flood. The total estimated seasonal groundwater recharge of 58 cm was about four times higher than that assigned to cranberry farms in regional groundwater flow models. During the floods, 10 to 20-cm increases in water-table depth were observed for wells within 10 m of the farm, contrasting with decreases (or minimal variation) in water-table depth for wells located 100 m or farther from the farm. These spatial patterns in the hydrologic response of groundwater suggested a zone of influence of approximately 100 m from the flooded edge of the farm. Analysis of 43 groundwater samples collected from 10 wells indicated generally low concentrations of TDP in groundwater (
Influence of Metabolic Control on Growth in Homocystinuria due to Cystathionine B-Synthase Deficiency

The etiology of the tall stature almost invariably seen in homocystinuric patients is not known. The effect of metabolic control and the role of the GH-IGF system on growth were investigated in 10 patients with homocystinuria. There was a direct correlation between the plasma free homocyst(e)ine and growth velocity SD scores in 18 patient years (r, 0.46;p < 0.05). Plasma 2-y cumulative free homocyst(e)ine and height SD scores were directly correlated (r, 0.82;p < 0.01). Growth velocity SD scores were lower in patients with optimal metabolic control than in those with poorer control (−0.10 ± 0.65 versus 0.95 ± 0.68, p < 0.01). Height SD scores were also lower in the optimally controlled group (−0.01 ± 0.81 versus 1.73 ± 0.88, p < 0.05). GH and GH-related peptides did not deviate significantly from the reference ranges. These findings suggest that overgrowth is directly mediated by homocysteine, that the GH-IGF axis is not involved, and that it may be prevented by optimal metabolic control.
Insights into cortical oscillations arising from optogenetic studies.

Cortical oscillations in the theta (4–10 Hz) and gamma (30–100 Hz) frequency range have been hypothesized to play important roles in numerous cognitive processes and may be involved in psychiatric conditions including anxiety, schizophrenia, and autism. This review provides background information about these oscillations and their possible roles in psychiatric illness. Findings from recent studies that used optogenetic tools to demonstrate that 1) a particular class of inhibitory interneurons expressing the calcium binding protein parvalbumin plays a central role in gamma oscillations, 2) gamma oscillations can entrain rhythmic firing in pyramidal neurons, and 3) rhythmic firing at theta and gamma frequencies can enhance communication between neurons are described. Finally, how these findings may relate to the pathophysiology of psychiatric conditions, as well as questions for future studies, are discussed.
Better Allocating University Resources to Create On-line Learning Environments for Non-Traditional Students in Underserved Rural Areas

This article details one university’s efforts to develop graduate courses and programs to better serve the needs of the increasing non-traditional student population in underserved rural areas. A detailed overview is presented, along with the strategic planning outcomes achieved. We hope this article will initiate dialogue among higher education professionals on ways to better meet the academic needs of non-traditional students in underserved rural areas.
Hygiene in the prevention of udder infections. V. Efficacy of teat dips under experimental exposure to mastitis pathogens.

Abstract Efficacy (reduction of new intramammary infections) was determined against Stapbylococcus aureus in 14 trials and against Streptococcus agalactiae in 5 trials. Against Stapbylococcus aureus seven 1% iodophor products had an average efficacy of 89.9% while three .5% iodophor products averaged 76.4%. A solution of sodium dichloro-s-triazenetrione reduced infections 79.0% and 2% dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid was 50.4% effective. Efficacies of two quaternary ammonium products at .18 and .5% were 84.8 and 60.9%. A placebo vehicle and .15M saline as teat dips reduced infections 8.9 and 9.2%. Infection rates with Streptococcus agalactiae were low; efficacy ranged from 50.5 to 100.0%, average 65.6%. The model of experimental exposure provided a better estimate of effectiveness of a teat dip than would be possible under conditions of most commercial dairying.
Skeletal changes in multiparous mice fed a nutrient-sufficient diet containing cadmium

Female mice were given nutrient-sufficient, purified diets containing cadmium at either 0.25, 5, or 50 ppm, as described in the accompanying publication. One-half of the females were bred for 6 consecutive 42-day rounds of pregnancy/lactation (PL mice); remaining females were non-pregnant controls (NP mice). PL mice and NP controls were sacrificed after 1, 2, 4, or 6 consecutive rounds of pregnancy/lactation. At all levels of dietary cadmium and after all reproductive rounds, kidney cadmium concentrations were 2-5-fold higher in PL than NP mice. After 6 rounds of reproduction, the mean concentration of cadmium in the kidneys of PL mice exposed to dietary cadmium at 50 ppm was 115 micrograms Cd/g kidney, close to the critical concentration for cadmium-induced renal damage (200 micrograms/g). No consistent increases in the concentrations of amino acids, protein, or cadmium in urine were observed in the NP or PL mice in our study, indicating that cadmium-induced renal dysfunction had not yet appeared. Very small increases in kidney concentrations of zinc and copper were observed with large increases in kidney cadmium concentrations. Threshold cadmium concentrations below which the concentrations of zinc and copper were relatively constant and independent of cadmium concentration were identified; they were 7.2 micrograms Cd/g kidney for zinc and 13 micrograms Cd/g kidney for copper. In this study, cadmium-induced decreases in bone-mineral content occurred in the PL mice exposed to cadmium at 5 and 50 ppm (see accompanying publication). Data presented here indicate that the latter bone changes occurred in the absence of cadmium-induced renal dysfunction of the type that results in increased aminoaciduria/proteinuria. They suggest that the bone disease of Itai-Ital patients may also have started prior to the onset of this type of renal dysfunction.
The Ozone Hole of 2002 as Measured by TOMS

Abstract Since its discovery in 1985, the ozone hole has been regularly mapped using the data from Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) instruments on several satellites. The current TOMS, on the Earth Probe satellite, has been taking measurements since 1996. The ozone hole first appeared during the 1980s. Since 1990, the hole has consistently developed during each Antarctic spring over a broad area with the minimum total ozone value reaching about 100 Dobson units (DU; 1 DU = 2.69 × 1016 molecules cm−2) in late September or early October. The year 2002 was markedly different from the past 12 years. A series of strong wave events weakened the South Polar vortex. In late September, a major stratospheric warming took place, reversing the direction of the polar flow and the latitudinal temperature gradient. This warming resulted in a division of the ozone hole into two pieces, one that migrated to lower latitudes and disappeared and one that reformed over the Pole in a weakened form. The development of th...
Studies on the isolation and composition of human ocular mucin

Abstract A method for the isolation and purification of human ocular mucin from the brief saline extract of human ocular mucus is reported. Initial purification of ocular mucin was achieved by sequential chromatography of the saline-soluble mucus extract from an individual donor's mucus pool on columns of Sephadex G-50 and Sepharose CL-4B. A portion of such mucin isolate was subjected to quantitative analysis of the O-seryl (threonyl)-N-acetylgalactosaminyl linkage, characteristic of mucins, by alkaline β-elimination and tritiated borohydride reduction. Following Bio-Gel P-2 filtration, the mucin isolate whose cleaved oligosaccharides contained tritiated galactosaminitol > 0·5 μCi mg −1 , a value that represents at least 64% of that observed for bovine and ovine submaxillary reference mucins, was considered to be mucin-rich. These isolates were subjected to further purification on Sephacryl S-500 and DEAE-Trisacryl M column chromatographies. The purified mucin had a minimum molecular weight of 120 kDa. It consisted of 25–30% protein and 54–55% carbohydrate. Its amino acid and carbohydrate compositions are characteristic of a mucin structure. The purity of the mucin was verified by SDS-gradient PAGE. Upon isoelectric focusing, polydispersity/microheterogeneity were exhibited in the p I range 5·0–6·6.
Integrating MATLAB and Simulink in an Advanced Engineering Mechanics Course

An advanced engineering mechanics course teaches students to analyze and model a variety of dynamical systems using Newtonian and Lagrangian mechanics approaches. The modeling task typically produces nonlinear differential equations that are best solved numerically. In order to prepare students to competently solve these systems numerically, the students must master a suitable programming environment. This mastery is achieved incrementally throughout the semester. This paper describes a successful approach to developing the necessary programming skills, culminating in a course project in which the students model a complex dynamical system and produce a graphical animation allowing visualization of dynamical behavior. The paper also describes two typical course projects that have been successfully completed by advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Earnings behavior in food and tobacco manufacturing

This paper examines and empirically evaluales various relationships between product and labor market characteristics and industrial earnings and productivity behavior in the food and tobacco manufacturing sector. Both higher earnings and larger increases in those earnings over time are observed for more concentrated product classes; further, these classes show no appreciably larger productivity increase over time. Other significant factors in earnings and earnings change determination appear to be plant size distribution, industrial geographic dispersion, and industrial percentage of male employees.
Proximity and the distribution of foreign direct investment stock

The relevance of the concept "proxemics" to understand social distance and the resulting patterns of behavior among participants has been recognized in social psychology. This concept may also be useful to examine certain patterns of behavioral interactions among economic agents. As a test case, we have applied this to study patterns of behavior in international economic relations relating investors and hosts of foreign direct investment (FDI). This brief note is a report of some preliminary findings of an ongoing research along this line. One fact about the distribution of the stock of a country's FDI is that its hosts with a relatively larger share are found in proximity to it. For example, the U.S. has the largest share of the total FDI stock in Canada. Japan ranks at the top in relation to the share of FDI stock in South Korea. Similarly, the U.K. is the biggest single provider of FDI in the Irish Republic. Evidences abound. In an attempt to explain these phenomena, we have constructed a model in which economic, political, geographic, and socio-cultural proximity factors are being incorporated. To test the model, we have used data on the distribution of the stock of U.S. FDI in 1978. As only 25 countries accounted for about 80 percent of the total stock [Source: Obie G. Whichard,"U.S. Direct Investment Abroad in 1979," Survey of Current Business, August 1980, p. 26, Table 12], these countries are the empirical base of this experiment. The explanatory variables are per capita GNP in 1977 (a measure of economic proximity), distance (a measure of geo-political proximity), language (a proxy variable for socio-cultural proximity which takes the value of 1 if English is the official language of a host country and 0 otherwise), and population in 1977 (a measure of market size proximity). The source of data for distance is C. L. Taylor and M. Hudson's World Handbook of Political and Social Indicators [New Haven: Yale University Press, 1972] pp. 350-52. Various UN publications are the sources of data for the rest of explanatory variables.
An Under-Actuated 5-DOF Robotic Manipulator for Ultrasound Transducer Guidance Using a Passive Four-Bar Linkage

Robotic devices have made inroads in various areas of medical practice. This paper offers a design of robot kinematics for ultrasound probe manipulation to obtain reproducible Achilles tendon images for quantifying injury or response to treatment. The design includes a motor-controlled 4-DOF arm with an additional smaller, passive four-bar linkage mount for the ultrasound probe to optimize surface contact with the subject and increase the mobility to 5 DOF.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Applying an ecological framework to education needs of communication partners of individuals with aphasia

Background: Education provided to communication partners of individuals with aphasia can be crucial in coping with resulting changes in communication. Research is limited regarding the viewpoint of communication partners in the process of receiving education. Aims: The aim of the study was to explore education experiences and needs of communication partners of individuals with aphasia in the current climate of healthcare. Methods & Procedures: A qualitative research design was implemented. Participants included nine communication partners of individuals with aphasia with onset within 2 years. Mean age of participants was 58 years; mean age of aphasic individuals was 71 years. Outcomes & Results: Bronfenbrenner's ecological model (1979, 2005) provided a framework for discussing the participants' perception of the education received about aphasia and the specific communication problems of the individuals with aphasia. Barriers and facilitators to education were identified at the microsystem, mesosystem, and...
Real-Time In Situ Monitoring of the Thermal Cure of a Bisphenol Cyanate: A View Toward Intelligent Processing

SYNOPSIS A dispersive fiber-optic Raman spectrometer was used to remotely monitor, in real-time, the local temperature and the extent of reaction of a commercial cyanate ester polymer (AroCy L-10). The local temperature was determined by solving the Boltzmann relation governing the intensity ratio of the Raman Stokes and anti-Stokes scattering of a reference mode which does not vary with the reaction chemistry. The extent of the reaction can be monitored using either individual peaks associated with the reactant or product or by using the entire spectrum and principal component multivariate calibration. The use of principal component analysis has distinct advantages over the single-peak method. cdr 1996 John Wiley & Sons. Inc
Formation and Characterization of Planar Phospholipid Bilayers Supported on TiO2 and SrTiO3 Single Crystals

Supported phospholipid bilayers have been prepared on rutile TiO2 and SrTiO3 single-crystal substrates. Fluidlike bilayers were successfully deposited onto each surface by Langmuir−Blodgett and Langmuir−Schaeffer methods and the vesicle adsorption and fusion method. The characteristics of membranes supported on TiO2 and SrTiO3 single crystals were evaluated using fluorescence pattern photobleaching recovery, fluorescence imaging, and differential interference contrast imaging, and the results were compared to similar preparations on fused silica. Diffusion coefficients of a fluorescent lipid in membranes supported on all substrates were on the order of 10-8 cm2/s, and fractional mobilities were 74−99%. Measured diffusion coefficients were faster for fluorescent lipids in bilayers on TiO2 and SrTiO3 than in bilayers on fused silica, and some sample types exhibited two diffusing species rather than a single diffusing species. Both the intensities and bleachabilities of the fluorescent lipids were significan...
Phospholipid methylation in canine myocardium: kinetic characteristics and the effect of endotoxin administration.

Abstract The kinetic characteristics and the effect of endotoxin administration on the enzymatic methylation of phospholipids in dog heart microsomes were studied using S -adenosyl- l -[ methyl - 3 H]methionine as a methyl donor. Kinetic studies in control dogs reveal that the stepwise methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylcholine was catalyzed by three different enzymes. Methyltransferase I catalyzed the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidyl- N -monomethylethanolamine, had a very low K m (∼1.5 μ m ) for S -adenosylmethionine, and a pH optimum of 6.5, and it was stimulated by Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ . Methyltransferase II catalyzed the methylation of phosphatidyl- N -monomethylethanolamine to phosphatidyl- N,N -dimethylethanolamine, had a low K m (8–12 μ m ) for S -adenosylmethionine, and a pH optimum of 8.5, and it was stimulated by low concentrations ( m ) of Ca 2+ but was unaffected by Mg 2+ . Methyltransferase III catalyzed the formation of phosphatidylcholine from phosphatidyl- N,N -dimethylethanolamine, had a high K m (∼33 μ m ) for S -adenosylmethionine, and a pH optimum of 9.5, and it was unaffected by Mg 2+ or Ca 2+ . Experiments with trypsin digestion indicate that methyltransferases I and III were partially embedded while methyltransferase II was completely exposed to the surface of the membrane. Endotoxin administration (2 and 4 hr) decreased the K m and V max by 30 to 36% and 24 to 37.7%, respectively, for S -adenosylmethionine. Since the enzymatic methylation of phospholipids has been implicated to play an important role in the regulation of membrane structure and function, the endotoxin-induced decreases in the K m and V max of phospholipid-methylating enzymes in dog heart microsomes may contribute to the development of myocardial dysfunction in endotoxin shock.
Subepicardial adipose tissue and the presence and severity of coronary artery disease.

Abstract Background Mechanistic studies suggest that paracrine effects of subepicardial adipose tissue may promote coronary atherosclerosis, but this has not been confirmed in clinical studies. Methods and results Of 180 consecutive patients who underwent echocardiography and coronary angiography within 1 week (mean 2.5±2.0 days), 139 (80 men, 68±13 years) were studied. Subepicardial adipose tissue on the free wall of right ventricle was measured at end-diastole from parasternal long- and short-axis views of three cardiac cycles. Angiograms were analyzed for the presence, extent and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), using a 27-segment classification. The number of segments with at least 20% (CAGE≥20) and 50% (CAGE≥50) stenosis was recorded. Age showed a significant correlation with subepicardial adipose tissue thickness measured from parasternal long- ( r =0.25, p =0.003) and short-axis view ( r =0.23, p =0.01). No significant correlation was found between subepicardial adipose tissue thickness and any angiographic or other clinical variables ( p >0.05). Neither the proportion of patients with significant or any CAD nor the severity score, CAGE≥20, and CAGE≥50 among each of four quartiles was significantly associated with subepicardial adipose tissue thickness. Conclusions In this selected population, the amount of subepicardial adipose tissue thickness was not associated with the severity of CAD. Whether subepicardial adipose tissue has any atherosclerotic effect remains to be proven.
Rotor and Subrotor Dynamics in the Lee of Three-Dimensional Terrain

The internal structure and dynamics of rotors that form in the lee of topographic ridges are explored using a series of high-resolution eddy-resolving numerical simulations. Surface friction generates a sheet of horizontal vorticity along the lee slope that is lifted aloft by the mountain lee wave at the boundary layer separation point. Parallel-shear instability breaks this vortex sheet into small intense vortices or subrotors. The strength and evolution of the subrotors and the internal structure of the main large-scale rotor are substantially different in 2D and 3D simulations. In 2D, the subrotors are less intense and are ultimately entrained into the larger-scale rotor circulation, where they dissipate and contribute their vorticity toward the maintenance of the main rotor. In 3D, even for flow over a uniform infinitely long barrier, the subrotors are more intense, and primarily are simply swept downstream past the main rotor along the interface between that rotor and the surrounding lee wave. The average vorticity within the interior of the main rotor is much weaker and the flow is more chaotic. When an isolated peak is added to a 3D ridge, systematic along-ridge velocity perturbations create regions of preferential vortex stretching at the leading edge of the rotor. Subrotors passing through such regions are intensified by stretching and may develop values of the ridge-parallel vorticity component well in excess of those in the parent, shear-generated vortex sheet. Because of their intensity, such subrotor circulations likely pose the greatest hazard to aviation.
Kinetic studies on 3-hydroxykynureninase from rat liver.

3-Hydroxykynureninase was purified from rat liver. The Michaelis constants for L-kynurenine and L-3-hydroxykynurenine were determined to be 2.33 × 10−4m and 6.85 × 10−5m, respectively, at pH 8.41 and 37°. With L-kynurenine as substrate, the enzyme was competitively inhibited by L-alanine, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, and several other compounds which contained structural features of either amino acid or aryl portions of the substrate. The effect of pH on the initial velocity, maximal velocity, and Michaelis constant, using L-kynurenine as substrate, was studied. Maximal velocity was strongly pH-dependent, with a maximum at pH 8.4. The Michaelis constant decreased from 11.4 × 10−4m at pH 7.1 to 1.30 × 10−4m at pH 9.0. Logarithmic plots of these data showed pKa's for functional groups ionizing in the enzyme-substrate complex and free enzyme active center of 7.6 and 8.5, respectively. Possible groups responsible for these ionizations were discussed.
Technochange management: using IT to drive organizational change

Using IT in ways that can trigger major organizational changes creates high-risk, potentially high-re ward, situations that I call technochange (for technology-driven organizational change). Technochange differs from typical IT projects and from typical organizational change programs and therefore requires a different approach. One major risk in technochange—that people will not use information technology and related work practices—is not thoroughly addressed by the discipline of IT project management, which focuses on project cost, project schedule, and solution functionality. Organizational change management approaches are also generally not effective on their own, because they take as a given the IT “solutions” developed by a technical team. Consequently, the potential for the IT “solution” to be misaligned with important organizational characteristics, such as culture or incentives, is great. Merely combining IT project management and organizational change management approaches does not produce the best results, for two reasons. First, the additive approach does not effectively address the many failure-threatening problems that can arise over the lengthy sequential process of the typical technochange lifecycle. Second, the additive approach is not structured to produce the characteristics of a good technochange solution: a complete intervention consisting of IT and complementary organizational changes, an implementable solution with minimal misfits with the existing organization, and an organization primed to appropriate the potential benefits of the technochange solution. With hard work and care, the combined IT project management plus organizational change approach can be made to work. However, an iterative, incremental approach to implementing technochange can be a better strategy in many situations. The essential characteristic of the technochange prototyping approach is that each phase involves both new IT functionality and related organizational changes, such as redesigned business processes, new performance metrics, and training.
A note on the inhibition of cellulase binding to protein-extracted lucerne fibre by denatured enzyme

Protein-extracted lucerne fibre rapidly bound Trichoderma reesei cellulases. The presence of denatured cellulase proteins inhibited both the binding and catalysis by active enzyme. This inhibition indicates that accumulation of denatured cellulase during repeated recycling in biomass conversion processes would progressively diminish the ability of the fibre to recover active enzyme from the product stream.