cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The greening of pesticide-environment interactions: some personal observations.

Background: Pesticide–environment interactions are bidirectional. The environment alters pesticides by metabolism and photodegradation, and pesticides in turn change the environment through nontarget or secondary effects. Objectives: Approximately 900 currently used commercial pesticides of widely diverse structures act by nearly a hundred mechanisms to control insects, weeds, and fungi, usually with minimal disruption of nature’s equilibrium. Here I consider some aspects of the discovery, development, and use of ecofriendly or green pesticides (i.e., pesticides that are safe, effective, and biodegradable with minimal adverse secondary effects on the environment). Emphasis is given to research in my laboratory. Discussion: The need for understanding and improving pesticide–environment interactions began with production of the first major insecticide approximately 150 years ago: The arsenical poison Paris Green was green in color but definitely not ecofriendly. Development and use of other pesticides has led to a variety of problems. Topics considered here include the need for high purity [e.g., hexachlorocyclohexane and polychloroborane isomers and 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T)], environmental degradation and the bioactivity of resulting photoproducts and metabolites, pesticide photochemistry (including the use of structural optimization, photostabilizers, and photosensitizers to achieve suitable persistence), the presence of multiple active ingredients in botanical insecticides, the need to consider compounds with common mechanisms of action, issues related to primary and secondary targets, and chemically induced or genetically modified changes in plant biochemistry. Many insecticides are bird, fish, and honeybee toxicants, whereas herbicides and fungicides pose fewer environmental problems. Conclusion: Six factors have contributed to the greening of pesticide–environment interactions: advances in pesticide chemistry and toxicology, banning of many chlorinated hydrocarbons, the development of new biochemical targets, increased reliance on genetically modified crops that reduce the amount and variety of pesticides applied, emphasis on biodegradability and environmental protection, and integrated pest- and pesticide-management systems.
Intracranial hyperthermia through local photothermal heating with a fiberoptic microneedle device.

Background and Objectives The fiberoptic microneedle device (FMD) seeks to leverage advantages of both laser-induced thermal therapy (LITT) and convection-enhanced delivery (CED) to increase volumetric dispersal of locally infused chemotherapeutics through sub-lethal photothermal heat generation. This study focused on determination of photothermal damage thresholds with 1,064 nm light delivered through the FMD into in vivo rat models. Materials and Methods FMDs capable of co-delivering laser energy and fluid agents were fabricated through a novel off-center splicing technique involving fusion of a multimode fiberoptic to light-guiding capillary tubing. FMDs were positioned at a depth of 2.5 mm within the cerebrum of male rats with fluoroptic temperature probes placed within 1 mm of the FMD tip. Irradiation (without fluid infusion) was conducted at laser powers of 0 (sham), 100, 200, 500, or 750 mW. Evans blue-serum albumin conjugated complex solution (EBA) and laser energy co-delivery were performed in a second set of preliminary experiments. Results Maximum, steady-state temperatures of 38.7 ± 1.6 and 42.0 ± 0.9°C were measured for the 100 and 200 mW experimental groups, respectively. Histological investigation demonstrated needle insertion damage alone for sham and 100 mW irradiations. Photothermal damage was detected at 200 mW, although observable thermal damage was limited to a small penumbra of cerebral cortical microcavitation and necrosis that immediately surrounded the region of FMD insertion. Co-delivery of EBA and laser energy presented increased volumetric dispersal relative to infusion-only controls. Conclusion Fluoroptic temperature sensing and histopathological assessments demonstrated that a laser power of 100 mW results in sub-lethal brain hyperthermia, and the optimum, sub-lethal target energy range is likely 100–200 mW. The preliminary FMD–CED experiments confirmed the feasibility of augmenting fluid dispersal using slight photothermal heat generation, demonstrating the FMD's potential as a way to increase the efficacy of CED in treating MG. Lasers Surg. Med. 45: 167–174, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthetic LXXLL peptide antagonize 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3‐dependent transcription

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is known to mediate the biological actions of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) through its ability to regulate cellular programs of gene expression. We identified VDR- and retinoid X receptor (RXR)-interacting LXXLL peptides using a mammalian two-hybrid system and examined whether these molecules could block vitamin D and 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cis RA) response. Peptides were identified that were reactive to RXR alone as well as to both VDR and RXR. Peptide fusion proteins were then examined in MC3T3 E1 cells for their ability to block induction of the osteocalcin promoter by 1,25(OH)2D3 or stimulation of an RARE-TK reporter by 9-cis RA. Peptides that interacted with both VDR and RXR blocked 1,25(OH)2D3-dependent transcription by up to 75%. Peptides that interacted with RXR blocked 9-cis RA induced transcription. Two RXR-interacting peptides, however, were also found to block 1,25(OH)2D3 response effectively. These studies support the idea that comodulator recruitment is essential for VDR- and RXR-mediated gene expression and that RXR is required for 1,25(OH)2D3-induced osteocalcin gene transcription. This approach may represent a novel means of assessing the contribution of RXR in various endogenous biological responses to 1,25(OH)2D3. J. Cell. Biochem. 88: 252–258, 2003. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Exploring the Link Between Low Self-Control and Violent Victimization Trajectories in Adolescents:

Although the relationship between Gottfredson and Hirschi’s self-control theory and crime is well known in the literature, much less research has addressed the possible link of low self-control and violent victimization. Drawing from the limited research in this area, the authors explore the trajectories of low self-control and violent victimization among a sample of adolescents from the Gang Resistance Education and Training data. The results appear to suggest that self-control is largely stable and that self-control trajectories are linked to violent victimization trajectories over time. Study limitations and suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Caring For Frail Elderly Parents: A Comparison of Adult Sons and Daughters

This research examines the impact of various factors on perceived emotional strain of adult son and daughter caregivers of frail elderly parents. Daughters experienced higher levels of emotional strain than did sons. Perceived interference between caregiving and the caregiver's personal and social life predicted emotional strain for both sons and daughters. For daughters the most important predictors of emotional strain were interference with work and quality of relationship with the parent. For sons the most important predictors were behavioral problems of the parent and few informal helpers.
IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGIC STUDIES OF ADENOSINE DEAMINASE DEFICIENT LYMPHOCYTES

Deficiency of adenosine deaminase (ADA) is associated with a form of severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID). Enzyme replacement therapy using red blood cells as a source of ADA restores the ability of ADA deficient SCID lymphocytes to respond to mitogens in vitro but does not increase ADA activity within these cells. The availability of ADA deficient lymphocytes capable of responding to mitogens permitted us to study the effects of various pharmacological agents in order to gain a better understanding of the metabolic basis of this immunodeficiency disease.
The Context of Condom Nonuse Among Older Adolescents and Young Adults

This exploratory-descriptive study examined the context of condom nonuse among older adolescents and young adults. The convenience sample consisted of 23 freshman university students (18 to 20 years of age) in a rural state. Participants were asked to describe situations when condoms were not used. The responses were content-analyzed using an inductive process. Descriptions (n = 86) were identified and analyzed for common themes. The seven themes were assessment of risks, location and timing of sexual experience, extraneous events, communication about condoms, feelings of the moment, contraceptive responsibility, and relationships between sexual partners. The findings suggest strategies to promote condom use when working with older adolescents and young adults.
O2 chemisorption at high temperatures on platinum-alumina and platinum-zeolite

Abstract As a contribution to the “surface thermodynamics” of supported platinum catalysts, the adsorption and desorption of oxygen on platinum-alumina and platinum-zeolite (Type Y) has been studied at 475 and 525 °C. H 2 chemisorption at 200 °C was used as a measure of Pt dispersion. The adsorption isotherms for O 2 on Pt-zeolite showed a semistep at partial pressures near the estimated dissociation pressures of bulk PtO; the limiting O:Pt atom ratio at higher pressures was about 0.86:1. No such steps were observed in the isotherms for O 2 on PtAl 2 O 3 , and the atom ratio of net O:total Pt reached the surprisingly high value of 3.7:1 at 525 °. This is attributed to a partial reduction of the Al 2 O 3 surface, catalyzed by the Pt, during the catalyst prereduction with H 2 at 550 °C. Measurements of Pt dispersion by H 2 chemisorption showed that: (a) a limiting atom ratio of net H:total Pt of 1:1 was observed for PtAl 2 O 3 , but 2:1 for PtHY; (b) PtHY was more susceptible to sintering than was PtAl 2 O 3 ; (c) “redispersion” of Pt in PtAl 2 O 3 on cyclic exposure to O 2 and H 2 occurred during the reduction step; and (d) the “redispersed” Pt in PtAl 2 O 3 was quite resistant to subsequent sintering in cyclic O 2 H 2 treatment.
Pliocene (3.2–2.4 Ma) ostracode faunal cycles and deep ocean circulation, North Atlantic Ocean

Ostracode assemblages from Deep Sea Drilling Project Sites 607 (western Mid-Atlantic Ridge) and 610 (southeast Rockall Plateau) show rapid, systematic shifts during late Pliocene glacial-interglacial cycles that reflect deep-sea environmental change. Progressive decreases in North Atlantic deep-water taxa and increases in Southern Ocean taxa occur from 3.4 to 2.4 Ma, and high-amplitude faunal cycles begin near 2.8 Ma. Four ostracode assemblages, each with a characteristic phase relative to 41 k.y. obliquity glacial-interglacial δ 18 O cycles, characterize the benthic faunal record at Site 607. Cross-spectral analysis shows that the Site 607 glacial assemblage has a 41 k.y. periodicity significant at the 95% level; other assemblages show a less significant, but still obvious, concentration of variance at 41 k.y. Faunal patterns suggest climatically controlled reorganization of deep-sea benthic communities during glacial-interglacial cycles due to oscillating deep-sea environments.
Lower bounds for generalized Ginzburg-Landau functionals

We study properties of Ginzburg--Landau functionals $I^\e_U(\cdot)$, defined for functions $u\in W^{1,n}(U; {\cal R}^n)$, where $U\subset {\cal R}^n$. In particular, we establish lower bounds relating the energy $I^\e_U(u)$ to the Brouwer degree of u, and we prove under additional hypotheses that the energy concentrates on a small number of small sets. As a consequence we deduce some compactness theorems. Such estimates are useful in studying Ginzburg--Landau-type PDEs associated with the functional $I^\e_U$.
Development and calibration of a stochastic dynamics model for the design of a MEMS inertial switch

The development and calibration to experimental data of a nonlinear stochastic dynamics model for a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) inertial switch is discussed. The MEMS switch is modeled as a classical vibro-impact dynamic system: a single degree-of-freedom oscillator subject to impact with a single rigid barrier. An applied load, modeled as a stationary Gaussian stochastic process with prescribed power spectral density (PSD), excites the device and causes repetitive impacts with the barrier. A subset of the model parameters are described as correlated random variables to represent the significant unit-to-unit variability observed during testing of a collection of the switches. Experimental measurements from linear modal and nonlinear transient tests on multiple nominally-identical units are used to calibrate the probabilistic model. The calibrated model for the MEMS inertial switch is then used for probabilistic design studies, where the metric of performance is the amount of time the switch remains closed when subject to the applied stochastic load.
Continuous-Bed Columns Containing Sol-Gel Bonded Packing Materials for Capillary Electrochromatography

Sol-gel bonded packing materials in continuous-bed columns have been prepared for capillary electrochromatography (CEC). Three packing materials were investigated: small-pore Spherisorb ODS1 (3 pm, 80 A) with octadecyl as stationary phase, small-pore mixed-mode Spherisorb ODS/SCX (3 pm, 80 A) with octadecyl and propyl sulfonic acid as stationary phases, and large-pore Nucleosil ODS (7 pm, 1400 A) with octadecyl as stationary phase. The characteristics of these columns were compared in terms of electroosmotic flow, efficiency, inertness, and retention factors. In contrast to columns containing sol-gel bonded ODS, columns containing sol-gel bonded mixed-mode ODS/SCX generated nearly pH independent electroosmotic flow (EOF) over pH 2-9. Columns containing sol-gel bonded large-pore ODS produced nearly three times lower reduced plate height than those containing small-pore ODS. Efficiencies of 220,000 plates per meter and 175,000 plates per meter were obtained from columns containing sol-gel bonded 7 μm, 1400 A ODS and columns containing sol-gel bonded 3 pm, 80 A ODS, respectively, which are among the highest reported efficiencies for continuous-bed columns. In CEC, over one million plates per meter and pH independent EOF are expected from continuous-bed columns containing sol-gel bonded 1.5 pm particles with large pores and mixed-mode stationary phases.
Some adducts of rare earth acetylacetonates

Abstract Several previously unreported adducts of rare earth acetylacetonates have been prepared and characterized by chemical analyses (including Karl Fischer titrations for water), i.r. spectra, and X-ray powder diffraction patterns. These adducts include compounds with methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, dioxane, pyridine, 2- and 4- methylpyridine, 2,4- and 2,6-dimethylpyridine, acetone, benzene, and acetylacetoneimine. Most of the adducts contain one or more moles of water per mole of chelate. It is concluded that when water and an organic donor are both present, only the water is coordinated to the rare earth ion and that the organic donor molecules are hydrogen-bonded or held in the crystal by lattice forces.
a Study of the Parameters Affecting the Interparticular Void Volume Using a New Titration Method

A new titration method proposed by Huyhn et al., which directly measures the interparticular pore volume between the particles in a concentrated suspension, has been further investigated. It is expected that for an ideal powder with uniform spherical particles, the plot of weight versus the void volume should be a straight line passing through the origin. Glass beads, which are nonporous and expected to be ideal, were used in this study and the results were compared with the results of the experiments by Huyhn et al. Glass beads of different size ranges are used to study the effect of particle size on voidage. It was observed that the voidage increases with a decrease in particle size, However, the non-porous glass beads were also found not to be ideal.
Surgical treatment for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a degenerative disease of the spine, usually found in the cervical vertebrae. Most symptomatic patients present with a myelopathy or myeloradiculopathy. Surgical decompression is the preferred treatment. The choice of operative approach, anterior or posterior, is still controversial. From January 1986 to June 1992, 20 patients with this condition received operations at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. The clinical manifestations and the results of treatment are analysed. The ideal surgery seems to be the anterior approach with bone fusion. If, however, the OPLL involves more than three segments, the posterior approach with an expansive laminoplasty would be the better alternative technique.
Pathogenesis and Treatment of Feline Rhinitis

Diagnosis and treatment of feline rhinitis, like canine rhinitis, can be a frustrating experience for the veterinary practitioner. Having sound knowledge of the possible etiologies involved and using a systematic diagnostic approach makes the workup of these challenging cases much easier. Selection of appropriate therapy based on a definitive diagnosis makes treatment rewarding. This article discusses the pathogenesis and treatment of a variety of causes of feline rhinitis.
Lessons Learned From Operating a Multidisciplinary Engineering Learning Center

The College of Engineering at the University of Notre Dame began operation of a multidisciplinary Learning Center in the fall of 2000. The College’s Engineering Learning Center enhances Notre Dame’s undergraduate engineering curriculum by providing students with a blend of computer workstations, laboratory workbenches, and open laboratory space. The goal of the Engineering Learning Center is to foster hands-on, multidisciplinary activities within the College. The Learning Center is flexible in design and usage. Areas in the Learning Center include a computer/group work area, fabrication area, specialty equipment area, presentation area, and support facilities. It has supported classes from every department in the College, college-wide special events, and small project group meetings. It also supports the project-intensive, first year course with an enrollment of 300–400 students each semester. The flexible design of the Learning Center has led to continuously increasing use of this facility for multiple aspects of our undergraduate engineering curriculum. The combination of computing with hands-on work space has enabled development of more sophisticated projects in our First-Year course. Further, the flexible work areas, availability of tools, and in-room storage areas have encouraged development of a number of undergraduate senior-design projects. Finally, the facility is experiencing expanding use as a late-night study area. The current Learning Center also serves as a prototype for an expanded Learning Center in a new engineering building planned for the Notre Dame campus. Lessons learned using this facility will directly impact the design of the new, expanded Learning Center facility.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Central projections of the frontal organ of Rana pipiens, as demonstrated by the anterograde transport of horseradish peroxidase.

The central projections of the frontal organ of Rana pipiens are more widespread, and more similar to those of the epiphysis, than previously realized. Fibers labeled with horseradish peroxidase were traced to the amygdala, the epiphysis, the pretectal region, and several nuclear areas of the mesencephalic and diencephalic central gray. When peroxidase reaction product was carefully distinguished from neuromelanin by means of polarization microscopy, no unequivocally labeled cell bodies of centrifugal fibers could be found.
Structural Basis for the Function of the Heterotrimeric G-Proteins

Abstract X-ray structures for many heterotrimeric G-protein complexes have been solved over the past 5 years. The structures of the G-protein subunits with their bound ligands, in conjugate with each other, and in complex with their regulators and an effector, along with the large quantity of biochemical information, have greatly improved our understanding of how these proteins function in the transduction of signals. In this article, we discuss the characteristics and functions of the heterotrimeric G-proteins in a structural context.
Symptomatic lipoma of the duodenum.

A case of duodenal lipoma causing massive hemorrhage is described. Literature on the subject is reviewed.
The One-Dimensional Kinetic Ising Model: A Series Expansion Study

Exact power series expansions (through eight terms) in the time are derived for relaxation in the one-dimensional Ising model with nearest-neighbor interactions for a general rate parameter where the activation energy is a variable fraction of the energy required to break nearest-neighbor bonds. It is found that the qualitative nature of the relaxation is very dependent on this parameter, varying from nearly simple exponential decay (as with Glauber dynamics) for an intermediate value of this parameter, to an initial rate of change that is either much slower or faster than a simple exponential at the extremes of the range of variation of the parameter. The rate equations for the limit of rapid internal diffusion (internal equilibration) are integrated for several special values of the rate parameter. In general the internal equilibration approximation is not a good representation of the relaxation except when the relaxation is similar to Glauber dynamics.
Low-temperature behavior of Ni 3 Al alloys near the spin-fluctuator-ferromagnet phase boundary

The heat capacity C of two alloys of the composition ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{73.75}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{26.25}$ (alloy IV) and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{76.41}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{23.59}$ (alloy V) has been measured in the temperature range 1.5--20 K. Magnetization as a function of temperature and applied magnetic field has also been studied for these two alloys and three other alloys (alloys I, II, and III: ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{74.75}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{25.25}$, ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{75.00}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{25.00}$, and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{75.60}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{24.40}$, respectively) which had been studied calorimetrically earlier [Phys. Rev. B 39, 7453 (1989)]. The C/T versus ${T}^{2}$ plot of alloy V is linear in the range 1.5--12 K but a barely discernible upturn exists for alloy IV below about 6 K. From Arrott plots magnetic ordering temperatures of 38.2 and 68.9 K, and spontaneous moments of 0.076 and 0.114${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{B}$/Ni at 5 K were obtained for alloys III and V, respectively. Alloys I, II, and IV, however, are paramagnetic down to at least 5 K. The Curie temperatures of the ordered alloys III and V, when determined and compared with previous results published in the literature, show a composition shift between our chemically analyzed samples and those measured on nominal composition alloys. The difference is thought to be due to a loss of aluminum by vaporization during the sample preparation. These results, taken together with our earlier results, show that for some compositions the upturn in the C/T plots of well prepared ``${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}$Al'' alloys, which have a solid solution range from 72.5 to 77 at. % Ni, is due to spin fluctuations and not due to magnetic clusters. Furthermore, our results show, for the first time, that the electronic specific-heat constant and the upturn approach a maximum as the composition approaches the spin-fluctuator--ferromagnetic crossover point (75.1 at. % Ni) from either side in accord with theory.
Role of renal biopsy in end stage renal failure

The role of renal biopsy in 46 patients with end stage renal failure was assessed. Renal tissue was obtained by open renal biopsy in 24 patients, by needle biopsy in 5, and at bilateral nephrectomy in 17. In 4 patients the renal biopsy specimens showed advanced changes that could only be diagnosed as "end stage kidney". In 42 patients (91 per cent), a precise renal diagnosis was made. In 20 patients (43 per cent) the prebiopsy clinical impression differed from the histologic diagnosis. In the 29 patients undergoing renal biopsy, minor postoperative morbidity occurred in 5. We conclude that a renal biopsy in patients with end stage renal failure will result in a change in clinical diagnosis in a significant number of patients and can be performed with low morbidity.
The frequency of the detection of fetal echogenic intracardiac foci with respect to maternal race.

Objective To determine if there is a racial difference in the frequency of identification of echogenic intracardiac foci (EIF) seen sonographically in the hearts of second-trimester fetuses. Methods Over a 2-month period (June 1998–August 1998), all fetuses scanned between 15 and 20 completed weeks' gestation were evaluated prospectively for the presence or absence of EIF. Pregnancies specifically referred for the presence of EIF were excluded. The sonographer performing the scan indicated maternal race as Asian, black, white, or (if maternal race was not clear) unknown. Maternal race, gestational age, and the presence or absence of EIF were prospectively documented. Follow-up of those fetuses with EIF was obtained from the referring physicians' offices. The groups were compared with respect to maternal race and presence or absence of EIF. Results There were 46, 34, 400, and nine fetuses of the Asian, black, white, and unknown mothers, respectively. The mean gestational age ± 1 SD at examination was 18.2 ± 1.6, 17.5 ± 1.4, 17.7 ± 1.5, and 17.8 ± 1.1 weeks, for the Asian, black, white, and unknown mothers, respectively. The incidence of sonographically detected EIF was 30.4, 5.9, 10.5 and 11.1% for the Asian, black, white, and unknown mothers, respectively, P = 0.001. In a multivariate logistic regression model, Asian mothers had an odds ratio of 3.8 (95% CI, 1.8, 7.6) for having a fetus identified as having EIF, as compared with white mothers. Conclusions The Asian patient is more likely than patients of other races to have a fetus with identified EIF. The counseling implications for Asian mothers undergoing midtrimester sonography when EIF is identified should be tempered, due to the increased frequency of EIF as a normal finding in the Asian population. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Effects of molybdenum, titanium and silicon additions on the Do3 ⇄ B2 transition temperature for alloys near Fe3Al

Abstract Additions of molybdenum, silicon and titanium to FeAl alloys with an aluminium content in the range 20–28 at.% have been found to increase the D0 3 ⇄ B2 transition temperature T c by as much as 250°C over that for binary FeAl alloys ( T c ≈ 540°C). These increases in T c have been related to increases in the ordering energies of the DO 3 superlattice caused by specific site substitutions by the solutes. The study of a variety of alloys, both ternary and higher order, has permitted development of an empirical expression relating T c to the amounts of moly b-denum and titanium as well as to the aluminum content. The effectiveness of the solutes in raising T c decreases in the order silicon, titanium and molybdenum.
Developmental trajectories during adolescence in males and females: A cross-species understanding of underlying brain changes

Adolescence is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood that encompasses vast changes within brain systems that parallel some, but not all, behavioral changes. Elevations in emotional reactivity and reward processing follow an inverted U shape in terms of onset and remission, with the peak occurring during adolescence. However, cognitive processing follows a more linear course of development. This review will focus on changes within key structures and will highlight the relationships between brain changes and behavior, with evidence spanning from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in humans to molecular studies of receptor and signaling factors in animals. Adolescent changes in neuronal substrates will be used to understand how typical and atypical behaviors arise during adolescence. We draw upon clinical and preclinical studies to provide a neural framework for defining adolescence and its role in the transition to adulthood.
Simple fast noninvasive technique for measuring brachial wall mechanics during flow mediated vasodilatation analysis

ABSTRACT Measurement of flow-mediated vasodilatation (FMD) in brachial and other conduit arteries has become a common method to asses the status of endothelial function in vivo. In spite of the direct relationship between the arterial wall multi-component strains and FMD responses, direct measurement of wall strain tensor due to FMD has not yet been reported in the literature. In this work, a noninvasive direct ultrasound-based strain tensor measuring (STM) technique is presented to assess changes in the mechanical parameters of the vascular wall during FMD. The STM technique utilizes only sequences of B-mode ultrasound images, and starts with segmenting a region of interest within the artery and providing the acquisition parameters. Then a block matching technique is employed to measure the frame to frame local velocities. Displacements, diameter change, multi-component strain tensor and strain rates are then calculated by integrating or differentiating velocity components. The accuracy of the STM algorithm was assessed using a phantom study, and was further validated using in vivo data from human subjects. Results indicate the validity and versatility of the STM algorithm, and describe how parameters other than the diameter change are sensitive to pre- and post-occlusion, which can then be used for accura te assessment of atherosclerosis. Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Vascular Wall Mechanics; Flow Me diated Vasodilatation; Strain Tensor Measurement
An E-learning interactive course for teaching digital image processing at the undergraduate level in engineering

Digital image processing has many applications in different fields such as medicine, forensic, robotics, industrial automatic inspection systems, navigation, …, etc. This field has attracted attentions of researchers and scholars to develop and/or to improve algorithms for different applications. Traditionally, the subject of digital image processing has been taught at the graduate level. A challenging question is can we make use of the available computational tools and advanced technology to teach the fundamentals of digital image processing at the undergraduate levels. Introducing students to the field of image processing at the undergraduate level will enable them to perform research at their early stage of college education and hence opening new application for digital image processing. In this paper, a proposal for a modular approach to teach digital image processing at the undergraduate level is presented. This course is an E-learning class and students can complete it at their own pace.
Stomatitis nicotina and its effect on the palate

Abstract In nicotinie stomatitis there is an early leucoplakia with round-cell infiltration of the papillary layer of the corium. The orifices of the mucous duets become occluded by desquamated keratinized epithelial cells. The papillary projections of the mucosa contain mucous cysts which are retention cysts caused by occlusion of the duet outlet. The round-cell infiltration in the corium points to an inflammatory condition and indicates the presence of a stomatitis that may be the fundamental cause of the disease. In the cases described, the etiologic factor happened to be the use of tobacco, as indicated by the habits of the patient, the deposit on the teeth, and the improvement when smoking was discontinued, as well as the fact that in one case only that part of the palate not protected by a denture was affected.
Effect of Polytetrafluoroethylene on Ultra-Low Platinum Loaded Electrospun/Electrosprayed Electrodes in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

In this study, catalyst layers (CLs) were fabricated using a simultaneous electrospinning/electrospraying (E/E) technique to produce unique nanofiber/nanoparticle membrane electrolyte assemblies (E/E MEAs) evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. Specifically, the effect of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in these E/E MEAs on polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell performance was evaluated. E/E MEAs result in high fuel cell performance at ultra-low platinum (Pt) loadings with higher electrochemical surface areas as evidenced by cyclic voltammetry experiments. Without PTFE, an E/E MEA operated at 172 kPa (25 psi) back pressure results in a maximum power density of 1.090 W/cm2 (H2/O2) and 0.647 W/cm2 (H2/air) with only 0.112 mgPt/cm2 total Pt MEA loading. Introducing PTFE (at only 1 wt%) to the electrospinning process results in an E/E MEA operated at the same back pressure (172 kPa (25 psi)) with an even higher maximum power density of 1.240 W/cm2 (H2/O2) and 0.725 W/cm2 (H2/air) at a lower total Pt MEA loading of 0.094 mgPt/cm2. This corresponds to a significant reduction in Pt loading (16% of control) with only a modest reduction in power density (∼86-87% of control), where the control MEA was produced using a conventional coating method and resulted in maximum power density of 1.420 W/cm2 (H2/O2) and 0.839 W/cm2 (H2/air) at a Pt MEA loading of 0.570 mgPt/cm2 (172 kPa (25 psi)). An excellent total MEA platinum utilization of 0.076 gPt/kW (∼13.2 kW/gPt) was achieved with the E/E MEA with PTFE at only a 0.094 mgPt/cm2 total Pt MEA loading. The improvement in E/E MEA with PTFE was a result of increased hydrophobicity of the nanofibers evidenced by contact angle measurements and improved PEM fuel cell performance at higher limiting current density in the mass transport region.
The Decomposition of Firm-size Wage Differentials

No completely satisfactory explanation for the persistent and well-documented large-firm wage premium has been found. I use a novel adaptation of the Oaxaca/Blinder wage discrimination model to examine the firm-size wage differential which allows the wage differential to be decomposed into the portions attributable to (1) differences in employee endowments, (2) how the firm values these endowments, and (3) residual differences. Small firms actually pay higher wages based on how they value their workers’ endowments, but this wage premium was overshadowed by the superior endowments of workers in large firms and a residual differential in favor of large firms.
LACK OF PHASE VARIATION OF VENUS

Abstract : Observations of Venus on a wavelength of 4.52 cm shows a negligible phase variation and a mean brightness temperature for the planet of 654 plus or minus 35 degrees K. Venus, it seems, must have a very thick atmosphere. (Author)
A method for the measurement of transmitted and reflected light from the same biological sample

An apparatus is described for the measurement of transmission and reflection of visible light through biological materials. The accuracy of the apparatus is independent of any fluctuations of intensity in the light source.
Neoadjuvant therapy before radical prostatectomy: where have we been? Where are we going?

Prostate cancer is curable only when treated at an early stage, when the tumor is still localized to the prostate gland. However, even in apparent cases of clinically localized disease, unsuspected extracapsular disease may significantly increase the risk of primary treatment failure. This risk is especially high if the patient has ≥1 of the following risk factors: a serum prostate-specific antigen level of >20 ng/ml, a Gleason score of >7, locally advanced disease (clinical stage T3/T4), and extensive disease on prostate biopsy. Various regimens of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, or both have produced mixed results and, in general, have not significantly influenced the rate of disease relapse (as defined by prostate-specific antigen level) in high-risk patients with localized prostate cancer. In addition, anti-angiogenic agents, gene therapy, molecular targeting agents, and other promising new therapies have been investigated in a neoadjuvant setting with limited results. Therefore, this patient population continues to pose a therapeutic dilemma for physicians.
Fenton-Like Oxidation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Soils Using Electrokinetics

An integrated electrochemical oxidation process that utilizes electrokinetics (EK) to deliver the oxidant (5–10% hydrogen peroxide, H2 O2 ) and chelant [40 mM of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)] or iron chelate (1.4 mM Fe-EDTA or Fe-DTPA) to oxidize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils was investigated. Batch and bench-scale EK experiments were conducted using: (a) kaolin, a low permeability clayey soil, spiked with phenanthrene at 500 mg/kg, and (b) former manufactured gas plant (MGP) soil, a high buffering silty soil, contaminated by a variety of PAHs (1493 mg/kg). Batch experiments showed that chelant solutions dissolve native iron minerals to form soluble Fe-chelates that remain available even at higher pH conditions of soil for the Fenton-like oxidation of the PAHs. In EK experiments, a 5–10% H2 O2 solution was delivered from the anode and a chelant solution or iron-chelate was delivered from the cathode. Preflushing of soil with 5% etha...
Sequence divergence of an archaebacterial gene cloned from a mesophilic and a thermophilic methanogen.

A 1.6-kb fragment of DNA from the thermophilic, methane-producing, anaerobic archaebacteriumMethanobacterium thermoautotrophicum ΔH has been cloned and sequenced. This DNA complements mutations in both the purE1 and purE2 loci ofEscherichia coli. The sequence of theM. thermoautotrophicum DNA predicts that complementation inE. coli results from the synthesis of a polypeptide with a molecular weight of 36,249. A polypeptide apparently of this molecular weight is synthesized inE. coli minicells containing recombinant plasmids that carry the cloned fragment of methanogen DNA. We have previously cloned and sequenced a purE-complementing gene from the mesophilic methanogenMethanobrevibacter smithii. The two methanogen-derived purE-complementing genes are 53% homologous and encode polypeptides that are 45% homologous in their amino acid sequences but would be 74% homologous if conservative amino acid substitutions were considered as maintaining sequence homology. The genome ofM. thermoautotrophicum has a molar G+C content of 49.7%, whereas the genome ofM. smithii is 30.6% G+C. Conservation of encoded amino acids while accommodating the very different G+C contents is accomplished by use of different codons that encode the same amino acid. The majority of base changes occur at the third codon position. The intergenic regions of the clonedM. thermoautotrophicum DNA contain sequences previously identified as ribosome binding sites and as putative methanogen promoters. Although the two purE-complementing genes are apparently derived from a common ancestor, only the gene fromM. smithii maintains a codon usage that conforms to the RNY rule.
Highly sensitive pressure sensor using Au patterned polydimethylsiloxane membrane for biosensing applications: Correlation of sensitivity and effective sensing range with membrane thickness

A highly sensitive pressure sensor using gold film patterned on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane has been developed and characterized. Strain induced changes in Au film resistance was used to perform quantitative measurement of absolute pressure. Typical sensitivities of the sensors with 3 mm x 3 mm footprint, fabricated using 50, 100, and 200 μm thick PDMS films, were found to be very high at 0.1/KPa, 0.056/KPa and 0.012/KPa, yielding very high gauge factors of 370, 180 and 70, respectively. We found that the device sensitivity and effective sensing range for reliable operation are closely correlated with the PDMS membrane thickness. Thinner membrane offers higher sensitivity but lower effective sensing range, which presents us a design tradeoff for desired sensor performance. This experiment observation also corresponds well to the results obtained from COMSOL based finite element simulation.
Fast parallel algorithms for the x-ray transform and its adjoint.

Purpose: Iterative reconstruction methods often offer better imaging quality and allow for reconstructions with lower imaging dose than classical methods in computed tomography. However, the computational speed is a major concern for these iterative methods, for which the x-ray transform and its adjoint are two most time-consuming components. The speed issue becomes even notable for the 3D imaging such as cone beam scans or helical scans, since the x-ray transform and its adjoint are frequently computed as there is usually not enough computer memory to save the corresponding system matrix. The purpose of this paper is to optimize the algorithm for computing the x-ray transform and its adjoint, and their parallel computation. Methods: The fast and highly parallelizable algorithms for the x-ray transform and its adjoint are proposed for the infinitely narrow beam in both 2D and 3D. The extension of these fast algorithms to the finite-size beam is proposed in 2D and discussed in 3D. Results: The CPU and GPU codes are available athttps://sites.google.com/site/fastxraytransform. The proposed algorithm is faster than Siddon's algorithm for computing the x-ray transform. In particular, the improvement for the parallel computation can be an order of magnitude. Conclusions: The authors have proposed fast and highly parallelizable algorithms for the x-ray transform and its adjoint, which are extendable for the finite-size beam. The proposed algorithms are suitable for parallel computing in the sense that the computational cost per parallel thread is O(1).
Gut-derived leukotriene B4 following hemorrhagic shock is a pivotal mediator of neutrophil priming

Abstract Introduction: The lipid fraction of mesenteric lymph collected after hemorrhagic shock (HS) and reperfusion primes the neutrophil oxidative burst in vitro. Recently, we have identified the culprit agent to be a neutral lipid consistent with Leukotriene B4 (LTB4). We hypothesized that plasma LTB4 increases after HS and that diversion of mesenteric lymph (DML) abrogates this effect. Furthermore, we posited that administration of an LTB4 antagonist blocks the priming effect of mesenteric lymph on neutrophils (PMNs). Methods: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (325–375 g) underwent laparotomy with cannulation of the mesenteric lymphatics for lymph diversion (DML) or laparotomy without mesenteric cannulation (Sham). Additionally, DML rats had lymph collected both pre- and post-shock. All rats underwent cannulation of the femoral artery and vein. HS to a MAP of 30 mmHg for 45 minutes was achieved via venous exsanguination. Animals were resuscitated with shed blood and with 2x the shed blood volume of NS over two hours. After resuscitation, plasma was collected for LTB4 measurement by ELISA. Lymph collected in the resuscitation phase was added to isolated PMNs that were then measured for superoxide release in the presence and absence of the LTB4 receptor antagonist CP-105,696. Results: LTB4 concentration in the lymph collected from the DML group measured 281.25 ± 53.81 ng/ml pre-shock, increasing to 692.13 ± 176.91 ng/ml post-shock (p
A spherical constant velocity model for target tracking in three dimensions

We present a new set of Kalman filters that posit near constant-velocity motion in spherical coordinates. Since the filter operates in spherical coordinates, a new nonlinear dynamic motion equation is developed along with a linear observation equation. Specific filter implementations include a spherical extended Kalman filter (KF) and a spherical sigma point Kalman filter structure that includes the unscented, spherical simplex and Gauss-Hermite KF's. The performance of the filters are demonstrated for a target that maneuvers in three dimensions and compared to similar results from their Cartesian filter counterparts.
Structural studies of aromatic amines and the DNA intercalating compounds m -AMSA and o -AMSA: comparison of MNDO, AMI, and PM3 to experimental and ab initio results

The ability of the MNDO, AM1, and PM3 semiempirical methods to reproduce pyramidalization at the nitrogen in 15 aromatic amines has been examined and compared to experimental and other theoretical results. AM1 consistently gives the best agreement. We have therefore reexamined the DNA intercalating compounds m-AMSA and o-AMSA using AM1.
Reading speed benefits from increased vertical word spacing in normal peripheral vision.

ABSTRACT:Purpose.Crowding, the adverse spatial interaction due to proximity of adjacent targets, has been suggested as an explanation for slow reading in peripheral vision. The purposes of this study were to (1) demonstrate that crowding exists at the word level and (2) examine whether or not readin
Critical Behavior of Transport in Lattice and Continuum Percolation Models

It has been observed that the critical exponents of transport in the continuum, such as in the Swiss cheese and random checkerboard models, can exhibit nonuniversal behavior, with values different than the lattice case. Nevertheless, it is shown here that the transport exponents for both lattice and continuum percolation models satisfy the standard scaling relations for phase transitions in statistical mechanics. The results are established through a direct, analytic correspondence between transport coefficients for two component random media and the magnetization of the Ising model, which is based on the observation we made previously that both problems share the Lee-Yang property.
Deep Drilling Project: ABSTRACT

The AMSOC Committee of the National Academy of Sciences-National Research Council has determined that it is both feasible and desirable to drill a hole through the earth's crust for the main purpose of obtaining as much sample as possible of the mantle. The hole must be drilled in either the Pacific or Atlantic Ocean basin where the crust is thin enough to be penetrated. Detailed surveys have been carried out in the area north of San Juan, Puerto Rico, on the rise north of the Puerto Rican trench. The survey area covers about 5 square degrees. In the Pacific a smaller area 50 miles southwest of Guadalupe Island has been surveyed. One of these sites will be chosen for drilling to the mantle. The project will be carried out in 3 phases: Phase I will consist of modifying a d illing barge for deep-water operation. As many test holes as the project can afford will be drilled. Several complete sedimentary core sections will be obtained which will yield information on coring methods in unconsolidated sediments, as well as paleontological, mineralogical, and structural knowledge of deep-sea sediments, which never before has been obtained. The preliminary holes will go to depths of 18,000 feet and in some places it is expected that the second layer will be penetrated. Phase II will begin with the application of the engineering data found in phase I to the design of a new drilling barge. The new barge will be constructed and moved into place. Phase III encompasses the actual drilling of the deep mantle hole, the scientific direction of the work, field analysis of t e results, and later laboratory analysis. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1252------------
Semantic externalism, authoritative self-knowledge, and adaptation to slow switching

I here argue against the viability of Peter Ludlow’s modified version of Paul Boghossian’s argument for the incompatibility of semantic externalism and authoritative self-knowledge. Ludlow contends that slow switching is not merely actual but is, moreover, prevalent; it can occur whenever we shift between localized linguistic communities. It is therefore quite possible, he maintains, that we undergo unwitting shifts in our mental content on a regular basis. However, there is good reason to accept as plausible that despite their prevalence we are in fact able to readily adapt to such switches, as well as to the shifts in mental content that accompany them. The prevalence of slow switching between linguistic communities does not then necessarily entail incompatibility after all.