cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cholesterol content as a possible determinant in the removal of chylomicron triglyceride by the liver.

Abstract The nature of chylomicron removal from the circulation and the role of the liver in this process have been investigated by measuring the removal of chylomicron triglyceride and cholesterol from the plasma of normal and functionally hepatectomized rats. The rate of removal of chylomicron triglyceride exceeded that of both free and esterified cholesterol in all animals. Whereas chylomicrons were completely removed from the circulation of normal rats soon after intravenous injection, chylomicron remnant particles accumulated in the plasma very low density lipoprotein and chylomicron fractions of hepatectomized rats. The rate of removal of chylomicron triglyceride from the blood of the hepatectomized rats decreased when the cholesterol content of the chylomicrons was elevated. In addition, more chylomicron triglyceride remained in the circulation of the hepatectomized rats when the chylomicrons were enriched with cholesterol and the remnant particles derived from these chylomicrons were of lower average density. These observations indicate that the cholesteryl ester content of the chylomicrons influences the degree of triglyceride removal in extrahepatic tissue capillaries and thereby the amount of residual triglyceride in the remnant particles subsequently removed by the liver.
Attemps to eradicate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization with the use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, rafampin, and bacitracin

Abstract Retrospective review of 197 patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) identified 47 in whom a regimen for eradication of MRSA colonization could be evaluated. The patients were elderly (mean age, 67.7 years), with 53% transferred from another institution and 53% treated in an intensive care unit. A mean of 47.1 days of hospitalization with an average of 4.9 antibiotics preceded the first MRSA culture. The usual regimen (mean, 6.0 days) was oral trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole, 160 800 mg twice daily, oral rifampin, 600 mg once daily, and bacitracin ointment three times a day. Eradication succeeded in 40 patients, 9 relapsed, and MRSA persisted in 7. Twenty-four of 25 nares sites were cleared but only 16 to 22 other sites. MRSA infection eventually developed in 36%. No adverse reactions to the eradication regimen were noted. Although this treatment for MRSA carriage was safe and effective, decreased efficacy outside the nares and relapse limited its value.
Wollastonite: Incongruent dissolution and leached layer formation

Abstract Measurements of the dissolution rates of wollastonite in solutions with pH ranging from 2 to 6 in an externally recycled mixed flow reactor show that the concentrations of Ca and Si in the reactor effluent decline with time following a power law behavior. After 24 h of reaction, the release rate of Si was 1.90 × 10−9 mol/m2 s and the release rate of Ca was 9.09 × 10−9 mol/m2 s and these rates were effectively independent of pH. The more rapid release of Ca relative to Si produced a leached layer with an average thickness, x, that is a function of both hydrogen ion activity and time: x = (1.19 × 10−9)(aH+)0.121t0.412. The rate of Si release from the hydrated silica leached layer was thousands of times faster than the dissolution rate of vitreous silica. We believe that this is best explained by the release of large silica polymers from the leached layer. The rate of silica release declined as a power law function of time. This behavior is consistent with the idea that the silica in the leached layer undergoes reconstruction reactions that produce regions that are more polymerized and therefore dissolve at a slower rate. In addition, we found that the specific surface of the reacted grains increases as the leached layer grows. This additional surface area appears to come from crazing of the surface and the development of internal porosity. These results are not consistent with the idea that the dissolving mineral will eventually display a steady state behavior.
A Note on Distributions of True versus Fabricated Data

New empirical evidence and statistical derivations of Benford's Law have led to successful goodness-of-fit tests to detect fraud in accounting data. Several recent case studies support the hypothesis that fabricated data do not conform to expected true digital frequencies.
Yield Gaps and Yield Relationships in Central U.S. Soybean Production Systems

The magnitude of yield gaps (YG) (potential yield–farmer yield) provides some indication of the prospects for increasing crop yield. Quantile regression analysis was applied to county soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yields (1972–2011) from Kentucky, Iowa, and Nebraska (irrigated) to estimate the attainable potential yield (APY) (yield in the most favorable environments in the 40-yr record). The YG for each year was the difference between the APY and the county yield. There was substantial variation in the 40-yr mean county yields (186–335 g m–²) within and among states. The mean county APY within each state increased linearly (P < 0.0001) in conjunction with mean county yields. The mean relative YGs varied from 9 to 24% of APY and were largest in the lowest yielding counties and they decreased linearly (P < 0.0001) as the mean county yield increased for each state. The large YGs were partially related to very low yields that occurred in some years during the 40-yr period and these YGs may partially reflect the ability of the soil to supply water to the crop. The difference between the maximum APY in each state and each county APY defined a second YG. The largest values ranged from 12 to 19% of the maximum APY. Irrigation should partially eliminate the first YG, but the second may be more intractable to the degree it is related to soil characteristics. These results suggest that soil conditions may play an important role in determining the size of YGs.
Rimonabant abolishes sensitivity to workload changes in a progressive ratio procedure

Abstract Despite its propensity to increase motivation for food consumption, marijuana use in humans has been associated with “amotivational syndrome.” This “amotivational syndrome” can be characterized by a reduction in response persistence in tasks requiring sustained, but not maximal, effort. To examine this hypothesis, dose–effect functions for THC (0.03–10 mg/kg) and rimonabant (0.1–10 mg/kg) were first determined under a time-constrained PR 5 schedule. During the second phase of the study, doses of THC and rimonabant that did not affect the responses/total reinforced responses were chosen for further evaluation in a series of PR schedules with step sizes of PR 3, PR 5, PR 10, and PR exponential. THC and rimonabant produced decreases in responses per reinforcer, and response rate when behavior was maintained on a PR 5. Rimonabant also decreased session length. During the PR step size manipulation phase, rimonabant decreased responses/total reinforced responses, response rate, and session length, whereas THC only decreased response rate. These results are consistent with previous literature demonstrating that rimonabant decreases motivation for food both in cases where it is earned, as well as under free-feeding conditions, whereas the effects of cannabinoid agonists such as THC on responding for food exhibit greater dependence upon motivational and non-motivational factors, including workload and duration of the task.
Electron Microscopy of Pinocytosis and Food Vacuoles in Pelomyxa

SYNOPSIS. Food vacuoles have been studied in various stages of the digestive process in cultures of Pelomyxa carolinensis and P. illinoisensis after feeding Tetrahymena and Paramecium. The vacuole wall formed immediately after capture of the food organism may be only 100 m/i thick. The changes observed in the food organisms indicate that first the membranes of the pellicle are ruptured, then mitochondria, cytoplasmic matrix, and nucleus are attacked; cilia and trichocysts are more resistant. The food vacuole membrane is involved first in the removal of water from the vacuole, then in transfer of cytoplasmic fluid into the vacuole, and finally in removal of digestion products from ihe vacuole by pinocyt. Vesicles which have been derived from the plasnulf—a b pinocytosis have been observed. They characteristically have a non-turgid, non-spherical appearance when located deep m the cytoplasm and are stainable with phosphotungstic acid. Pinocytosis and the function of food vacuole membranes are discussed. It is concluded that at leait two factors contribute to the benefits derived by amoebae from pinocytosis: (1) modification of the plasmalemma membrane near the time when it becomes the pinocytic vesicle membrane, and (2) increased surface area for diffusion.
Response to Comments on “Does the Hydrated Electron Occupy a Cavity?”

Turi and Madarasz and Jacobson and Herbert argue that the pseudopotential we derived for the hydrated electron contains inaccuracies that make it overly attractive. We show that our potential is derived correctly and argue that the criticisms presented are not relevant when evaluating a pseudopotential’s accuracy for condensed-phase simulation. Neither critique addresses our central result that the experimental properties of the hydrated electron are consistent with a noncavity picture.
Maximum determinants of complementary acyclic matrices of zeros and ones

Abstract We show that for n ⩾ 5 the maximum determinant of an n × n matrix of zeros and ones whose zeros form an acyclic pattern is ⌊( n − 1)/2⌋ ⌈( n −1)/2⌈ and characterize the case of equality.
The relationship of circulating plasma progesterone levels and rectal temperatures in gilts

Abstract To ascertain if a correlation exists between circulating plasma progesterone levels and rectal temperatures in swine, 10 mixed breed postpubertal ovariectomized gilts were treated with sesame oil containing 500 mg progesterone IM or with saline IM. The average daily rectal temperatures were not correlated with the circulating plasma progesterone levels. Rectal temperature observations do not provide a useful indication of corpus luteum activity in swine.
Limits on lorentz violation from synchrotron and inverse compton sources

We derive new bounds on Lorentz violations in the electron sector from existing data on high-energy astrophysical sources. Synchrotron and inverse Compton data give precisely complementary constraints. The best bound on a specific combination of electron Lorentz-violating coefficients is at the 6 x 10(-20) level, and independent bounds are available for all the Lorentz-violating c coefficients at the 2 x 10(-14)level or better. This represents an improvement in some bounds by 14 orders of magnitude.
Light scattering studies on colloidal lead sulfide

Abstract The complex refractive index of lead sulfide in the form of colloidal particles in aqueous suspension has been determined at four wavelengths from 366 to 546 nm by measurement of light scattering and absorptions. Two suspensions were used which were characterized by electron microscopy. Both suspensions were nearly monodisperse and contained well-formed cubes of edge lengths about 20 nm in one and 40 nm in the other. All the absorption and scattering data are accounted for by refractive indices which are the same as the bulk values at 366 and 405 nm, and close to the bulk values at 436 and 546 nm.
A force field for secondary chlorides

Abstract A force field has been derived for monochloro- and 2,4-dichloro-hydrocarbons. The Snyder-Schachtschneider force field for hydrocarbons was used as a starting point, the constants associated with the secondary chlorine being determined from an assignment of the gas phase spectrum of 2-chloropropane and the carbonchlorine stretching frequencies of the three isomers of 2-chlorobutane. The force field was tested on 3-chloropentane, axial and equatorial monochlorocyclohexane, and the most stable conformations of dl and meso 2,4-dichloropentane, giving good agreement in all of these cases. The conformation dependence of the carbonchlorine stretching frequency is thus shown to derive primarily from structural differences between conformers.
Who recycles and when? A review of personal and situational factors

Despite the societal importance of reusing waste materials, few empirical studies have specifically examined recycling behaviors as differentiated from attitudes and intentions. This paper reviews the empirical studies of recycling, summarizes research findings, and identifies areas for future research. The effects on recycling behavior of both personal variables (personality, demographics, and attitudes of environmental concern) and manipulable situational variables are reviewed. Results indicate that high income is a good predictor of recycling, whereas gender and age are not. General environmental concern appears to be related to recycling only when recycling requires a high degree of effort. However, relevant specific attitudes have consistently been found to correlate with recycling behavior. The seven situational variables reviewed (prompts, public commitment, normative influence, goal setting, removing barriers, providing rewards, and feedback) all produce significant increases in recycling behavior. However, there are several major limitations to the research. Results are based largely on single-variable assessments of recycling, and fail to consider interactions with characteristics of the environment or the population involved.
The Power of Partnerships = The Power of Success!!!.

Mid-South Community College (MSCC) and the Arkansas Delta Training and Education Consortium prove the power of partnerships!! ADTEC has garnered more than $36 million to develop and support advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, transportation, and allied health programs designed to engage and retain students from high school through a bachelor's degree!
Innervation of periesophageal region of cat's diaphragm - Implication for studies of control of vomiting

The extent of the region of the diaphragm around the esophagus that displays greatly reduced activity during the expulsive phase of vomiting was determined from electromyographic studies in cats to be about 0.75-1.0 cm from the esophagus. Horseradish peroxidase injected into this region retrogradely labeled motoneurons throughout most of the rostral-caudal extent of the phrenic nucleus, with the exception of caudal C6 and rostral C7. This widespread intermingling of motoneurons that innervate the region of reduced activity with other phrenic motoneurons creates a difficulty for needed follow-up studies of diaphragmatic control during vomiting.
Strategies of influence in close relationships

In this study, we examined how close relationship partners spontaneously influence each other while they discussed an existing problem in their relationship. According to theories of social influence, people in important, self-defining relationships should experience the relationship itself as a potent source of influence. Thus, they are likely to rely on the relationship as a source of power and to use influence strategies that reference relationship norms and values. Consistent with this reasoning, dating partners who were subjectively closer to their partners/relationships were more likely to reference the relationship in their influence attempts than those who were less subjectively close. Furthermore, referencing the relationship was an effective influence strategy. Greater referencing was associated with opinion shifts during discussions for both agents and targets of influence, with each compromising toward the other's position. In contrast, greater use of negative coercion as an influence strategy (e.g., derogation of the partner or punishment) was associated with less compromise.
Ion distributions at the nitrobenzene-water interface electrified by a common ion

Synchrotron X-ray reflectivity is used to study ion distributions at the liquid-liquid interface between a nitrobenzene solution of tetrabutylammonium tetraphenylborate (TBATPB) and a water solution of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBABr). The concentration of TBABr is varied to alter the ion distribution. Our X-ray measurements are inconsistent with several commonly used theories of ion distributions, including Gouy-Chapman, modified Verwey-Niessen, and the MPB5 version of the Poisson-Boltzmann equation. These structural measurements are described well by ion distributions predicted by a version of the Poisson-Boltzmann equation that explicitly includes a free energy profile for ion transfer across the interface when this profile is described by a simple analytic form or by a potential of mean force from molecular dynamics simulations. These X-ray measurements from the liquid-liquid interface provide evidence for the importance of interfacial liquid structure in determining interfacial ion distributions.
Sensitometry In Medical Imaging

Sensitometric methods employed for determining the characteristic curve of interest in medical imaging are described. These methods are based on the way in which various recording systems are exposed. In diagnostic radiology, an x-ray intensity scale sensitometer is used for measurements of the characteristic curves of conventional film and screen-film systems. The effect of reciprocity law failure on the sensitometric evaluation of screen-film systems is illustrated. The shape of the characteristic curves as a function of the light spectrum emitted from three types of intensifying screens is presented. Sensitometric techniques for quality control of automatic processors are also discussed. In radiation therapy, a sensitometric technique is described for determination of the proper characteristic curve for a film which can be placed beneath the patient before radiation treatment and removed afterwards so that an image of the anatomy actually irradiated is obtained. A characteristic curve can also be obtained by means of which photographic densities measured on the therapy verification film is related to exit absorbed dose.
Bends and momentum dispersion during final compression in heavy ion fusion drivers

Between the accelerator and fusion chamber the heavy ion beams are subject to a dramatic but vital series of manipulations, some of which are carried out simultaneously and involve large space charge forces. The beams' quality must be maintained at a level sufficient for the fusion application; this general requirement significantly impacts beam line design, especially in the considerations of momentum dispersion. Immediately prior to final focus onto a fusion target, heavy ion driver beams are compressed in length by typically an order of magnitude. This process is simultaneous with bending through large angles to achieve the required target illumination configuration. The large increase in beam current is accommodated by a combination of decreased lattice period, increased beam radius, and increased strength of the beamline quadrupoles. However, the large head-to-tail momentum tilt (up to 5%) needed to compress the pulse results in a very significant dispersion of the pulse centroid from the design axis. General design features are discussed. A principal design goal is to minimize the magnitude of the dispersion while maintaining approximate first order achromaticity through the complete compression/bend system. Configurations of bends and quadrupoles, which achieve this goal while simultaneously maintaining a locally matched beam-envelope, are analyzed.
Biomechanical model for evaluation of pediatric upper extremity joint dynamics during wheelchair mobility

Pediatric manual wheelchair users (MWU) require high joint demands on their upper extremity (UE) during wheelchair mobility, leading them to be at risk of developing pain and pathology. Studies have examined UE biomechanics during wheelchair mobility in the adult population; however, current methods for evaluating UE joint dynamics of pediatric MWU are limited. An inverse dynamics model is proposed to characterize three-dimensional UE joint kinematics and kinetics during pediatric wheelchair mobility using a SmartWheel instrumented handrim system. The bilateral model comprises thorax, clavicle, scapula, upper arm, forearm, and hand segments and includes the sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, glenohumeral, elbow and wrist joints. A single 17 year-old male with a C7 spinal cord injury (SCI) was evaluated while propelling his wheelchair across a 15-meter walkway. The subject exhibited wrist extension angles up to 60°, large elbow ranges of motion and peak glenohumeral joint forces up to 10% body weight. Statistically significant asymmetry of the wrist, elbow, glenohumeral and acromioclavicular joints was detected by the model. As demonstrated, the custom bilateral UE pediatric model may provide considerable quantitative insight into UE joint dynamics to improve wheelchair prescription, training, rehabilitation and long-term care of children with orthopedic disabilities. Further research is warranted to evaluate pediatric wheelchair mobility in a larger population of children with SCI to investigate correlations to pain, function and transitional changes to adulthood.
Vesicles and Phase Dynamics: Cross-Linking Effects

We study lipid phase behavior using giant unilamellar vesicles to model cell membrane dynamics. In our system, we investigate the effects of cross-linking in the head groups position via biotinylated lipids, avidin, and its analogues. Cross-linking is the linking of two molecules (biotinylated lipids) via a cross-linking agent (avidin). Vesicles allow us to isolate the lipid rearrangement due to cross-linking, a common activity on cell surfaces. By comparing specific binding strength of the coupling and self-adhesion, we study the role that cross-linking plays in membrane behavior. Confocal microscopy gives us the ability to visualize the membrane dynamics. Using phase specific dyes, we study the changes that occur with the addition of a cross-linker to the system. Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) enables us to detect clustering on the submicron scale, beyond the limits of conventional microscopy. Using FRET we detect lipid rearrangement associated with the transition from one-phase vesicles to two-phase vesicles using two different fluorescent dyes, a donor and acceptor. Both techniques allow us to quantify the phase behavior due presence of the cross-linking agent. From this simple cross-linking system, we model membrane responses to protein complex formation and oligomerization.
Unsteady free-surface wave-induced boundary-layer separation for a surface-piercing NACA 0024 foil: Towing tank experiments

Abstract Unsteady free-surface, wave-induced separation is documented using towing tank experiments for a surface-piercing NACA 0024 foil, which has insignificant separation, no wave effects, and 2-D flow in the deep. The test conditions are for minimal, reattaching, and nonreattaching separation: Froude numbers ( Fr ) = 0.19 , 0.37, and 0.55 and Reynolds numbers = 0.822 , 1.52, and 2.26×106. The measurements include mean far-field wave elevations for all three Fr, unsteady near-field wave elevations for medium and low Fr, mean foil-surface pressures for all three Fr, and unsteady foil-surface pressures for medium Fr. Unsteady measurements are statistically analyzed for mean, r.m.s., FFT, PSD, and phased-averaged organized oscillations and random fluctuation components. For Fr = 0.19 , there is no separation and the expected Kelvin waves are present. For Fr = 0.37 , the separation on the free and foil surfaces is demarcated by large r.m.s. (15–20% of the mean value dynamic range) and 1.94, 0.82, and 0.30 Hz dominant FFT frequency regions corresponding to shear layer, Karman shedding, and flapping instabilities, respectively. A large bow wave resembles a spilling breaker with low r.m.s. (2–5% of the mean value dynamic range) and 8.5 Hz dominant FFT frequency on the free and foil surfaces. Mean wave elevations in the separation region are relatively constant with intense free-surface oscillations, turbulence, and breaking. Outside the separation and wake region, the Kelvin waves are evident. The foil-surface pressure is high in the bow wave, low in the wave trough, gradually rises towards the trailing edge, and recovers 2-D distributions at large depths. For Fr = 0.55 , the bow wave is enormous. The separation region moves towards the trailing edge with increased splashing and bubbles. The Kelvin waves are no longer distinguishable due to increased free-surface turbulence. The mean foil-surface pressure, free-surface, and bottom effects interact with each other. The combination of the present albeit relatively sparse experimental data with complementary computational fluid dynamics studies provides a credible description of the flow physics.
Degrader foils for the CARIBU project

Abstract The Californium Rare Ion Breeder Upgrade (CARIBU) project was conceived to provide neutron rich beams originating from the 3% fission decay branch of a 252Cf source to be accelerated by the Argonne Tandem Linear Accelerator System (ATLAS). This 1Ci 252Cf source will be housed in a movable shielded cask, from which it can be directly transferred into a large helium gas stopper cell. Within the gas stopper, the CARIBU 252Cf source is positioned behind an aluminum degrader foil where the radioactive recoils of interest lose most of their energy before being stopped in the helium gas. To stop recoils over the full fission mass range effectively, three degraders of increasing thickness are required, one to cover the light fission peak and two for the isotopes in the heavy fission peak. The geometry of the source within the gas cell would ideally require a hemispherically shaped degrader foil for uniform energy loss of the fission products. The fabrication of a thin foil of such a shape proved to be exceedingly difficult and, therefore, a compromise “top hat” arrangement was designed. In addition, the ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environment necessary for the gas cell to function properly prevented the use of any epoxy due to vacuum outgassing. Handling, assembling of the foils and mounting must be done under clean room conditions. Details of early attempts at producing these foils as well as handling and mounting will be discussed.
Role of the MEOX2 homeobox gene in neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer disease

Neurovascular dysfunction substantially contributes to Alzheimer disease. Here, we show that transcriptional profiling of human brain endothelial cells (BECs) defines a subset of genes whose expression is age-independent but is considerably altered in Alzheimer disease, including the homeobox gene MEOX2 (also known as GAX), a regulator of vascular differentiation, whose expression is low in Alzheimer disease. By using viral-mediated MEOX2 gene silencing and transfer, we show that restoring expression of the protein it encodes, GAX, in BECs from individuals with Alzheimer disease stimulates angiogenesis, transcriptionally suppresses AFX1 forkhead transcription factor–mediated apoptosis and increases the levels of a major amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) clearance receptor, the low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 (LRP), at the blood-brain barrier. In mice, deletion of Meox2 (also known as Gax) results in reductions in brain capillary density and resting cerebral blood flow, loss of the angiogenic response to hypoxia in the brain and an impaired Aβ efflux from brain caused by reduced LRP levels. The link of MEOX2 to neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer disease provides new mechanistic and therapeutic insights into this illness.
Detailed molecular analysis of the induction of the L-PK gene by glucose

Glucose has powerful effects on gene expression and participates in the fasted-to-fed transition of the liver. However, the molecular mechanism of glucose-regulated gene expression has not been completely described. In the present study, we performed a detailed analysis of the molecular events of the insulin-independent glucose response of the liver-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) gene. L-PK mRNA was increased by glucose at the transcriptional level as determined by real-time RT-PCR, mRNA stability measurements, and nuclear run-on assays. LY294002 and LY303511 inhibited the glucose response of the L-PK gene at the transcriptional level. Histones H3 and H4 associated with the L-PK gene promoter were hyperacetylated and HNF4α was constitutively bound in low and high glucose. Treatment with 20 mM glucose increased recruitment of ChREBP, additional HNF4α, and RNA polymerase II. Glucose-stimulated the phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain of RNA polymerase II, with increased Ser5 phosphorylation near the transcription start site and increased Ser2 phosphorylation near the termination signal. LY294002 and LY303511 blocked the recruitment of RNA polymerase II to the L-PK gene, reducing the rate of transcription. The results of these studies demonstrate fundamental details of the molecular mechanism of glucose activated gene expression.
Improving Robust Domain Independent Summarization

We discuss those techniques which, in the opinion of the authors, are needed to support robust automatic summarization. Many of these methods are already incorporated in a multi-lingual summarization system, MINDS, developed at CRL. The approach is sentence selection, but includes techniques to improve coherence and also to perform sentence reduction. Our methods are in distinct contrast to those approaches to summarization by deep analysis of a document followed by text generation.
Kilowatt-level narrow-linewidth capable fibers and lasers

High power fiber lasers have been recently demonstrated at the kilowatt level. The spectral linewidths of these lasers oscillators can exceed 20 nm. Whereas, such broad spectra are fine for many applications, such as materials processing where raw power is the primary requirement, other applications, including coherent beam combination, harmonic generation, or gravitational wave detection, require high powers beams with much narrower linewidths. Amplification of narrow linewidth signals in optical fibers is limited by stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS). We discuss novel fiber designs that limit SBS allowing the amplification of narrow linewidth signals to kilowatt power levels.
Kalkaneusosteotomien beim kindlichen Knicksenkfuß (Langzeitresultate)

The static of serve flexible flatfeet in children can be positively influenced by the varisation osteotomy of the Calcaneous by Kramer. The method is technically easy and imposes very few complications. This follow-up after a meantime of 12.4 years looks at 30 osteotomies. Subjective results were excellent. Objectively, the results must be regarded as good. Nontheless, the problem remains who should be operated, especially if we keep in mind that the nontreated flatfeet usually develop positively. So this method should remain in the hands of the experienced orthopedic surgeon.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in Inflammatory Gene RNASEL Predicts Outcome after Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer

Purpose: To study associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in Ribonuclease L ( RNASEL ), a gene implicated in inflammation and prostate cancer risk, and outcomes after radiation therapy. Experimental Design: We followed participants in the prospective US Health Professionals Follow-Up Study treated with radiation therapy for early-stage prostate cancer. Three SNPs were genotyped based on previously determined functional and biological significance. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to assess per-allele associations with the primary outcome defined as time to a composite endpoint including development of lethal prostate cancer or biochemical recurrence. Results: We followed 434 patients treated with radiation therapy for a median of 9 years. On multivariate analysis, the rs12757998 variant allele was associated with significantly decreased risk of the composite endpoint [HR: 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.45–0.94%; P = 0.02] driven by decreased biochemical recurrence (HR: 0.60; 95% CI, 0.40–0.89%; P = 0.01) and men treated with external beam (HR: 0.58; 95% CI, 0.36–0.93%; P = 0.02). In contrast, in 516 men from the same cohort treated with radical prostatectomy, we found no significant impact of this variant on outcome. Furthermore, the rs12757998 variant allele significantly modified the association between androgen deprivation therapy and outcomes after radiation therapy (p-interaction = 0.02). Conclusion: We show an association between RNASEL SNP rs12757998 and outcome after radiation therapy for prostate cancer. This SNP is associated with increased circulating C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, suggesting a potential role for inflammation in the response to radiation. If validated, genetic predictors of outcome may help inform prostate cancer management. Clin Cancer Res; 19(6); 1612–9. ©2013 AACR .
A comparative theoretical study of Au, Ag and Cu adsorption on TiO2 (110) rutile surfaces

The adsorption properties of Au, Ag and Cu on TiO2 (110) rutile surfaces are examined using density func- tional theory slab calculations within the generalized gradient approximation. We consider five and four different ad- sorption sites for the metal adsorption on the stoichiometric and reduced surfaces, respectively. The metal-oxide bonding mechanism and the reactivity of metal atoms are also discussed based on the analyses of local density of states and charge density differences. This study predicts that Au atoms prefer to adsorb at the fourfold hollow site over the fivefold-coordinated Ti(5c) and in-plane and bridging O(2c) atoms with the adsorption energy of ≈0.6 eV. At this site, it appears that the covalent and ionic interactions with the Ti(5c) and the O(2c), respectively, contribute synergistically to the Au adsorption. At a neutral F s 0
New data clustering for RBF classifier of agriculture products from x-ray images

Classification of real-time x-ray images of randomly oriented touching pistachio nuts is discussed. The ultimate objective is the development of a subsystem for automated non-invasive detection of defective product items on a conveyor belt. We discuss the use of clustering and how it is vital to achieve useful classification. New clustering methods using class identify and new cluster classes are advanced and shown to be of use for this application. Radial basis function neural net classifiers are emphasized. We expect our results to be of use for other classifiers and applications.
Estimation of signal characteristics in seismic ground motions

In this study it is investigated whether signal processing techniques and least-square minimization methods applied to seismic data can identify the deterministic signal components that contribute significantly to the motions. The identification of these deterministic components would then allow the treatment of the remaining part of the time histories as random and result in better descriptions of the stochastic ground motion characteristics. This paper describes the methodology and applies the approach to analytically evaluated seismic ground motions at an array of sensors. Commonly used signal processing techniques are briefly described and compared, and an efficient least-square minimization scheme is introduced. The analysis indicates that the signals can be identified with their frequency, wavenumber, amplitude and phase.
Effects of Conformationally Restrained Analogues of Serotonin on Its Uptake and Binding in Rat Brain

Two series of serotonin analogues, in which the side chain amino group is constrained in the gauche or trans conformation, were utilized to study the preferred conformation of serotonin for interaction with two different neuronal sites. 6-Hydroxytetrahydro-beta-carboline and 6-hydroxy-3-aminotetrahydrocarbazole were found to be potent inhibitors of serotonin uptake into hypothalamic synaptosomes, with IC50 values of 0.13 microM for each analogue. The type of inhibition, as determined by Dixon plots, was found to be competitive, with Ki's of 3.0 X 10(-8) M and 4.6 X 10(-8) M for the beta-carboline and carbazole derivatives, respectively. Methoxylation or lack of a hydroxy group at the 6 position of the carbazole derivative did not alter inhibitory potency, while methoxy or benzyloxy substitution decreased potency 22- to 326-fold. The serotonin analogues were 20 to 30 times less potent in inhibiting the synaptosomal transport of the catecholamines. With regard to [3H]serotonin binding to membranes obtained from brain homogenates, both analogues exhibited poor affinity compared with the transmitter. However, the beta-carboline derivative was three times as potent as the carbazole analogue. These findings and earlier ones with regard to the effect of the serotonin analogues on brain monoamine oxidase activity support the idea that serotonin analogues interact differentially with the three different serotonergic sites examined.
Influence of Geometric Nonlinearities in the Dynamics of Flexible Treelike Structures

A comprehensive computer algorithm used in the dynamic analysis of multibody systems is presented. The procedures developed combine Kane's equations, the strain energy, and modal analysis to describe the elastic bodies. The equations of motion are expressed in a form in which their coefficients are based on the partial velocity and partial angular velocity arrays and are easily coded for computers. The nonlinear geometric stiffness matrix is developed for three-dimensional beams that account for the couplings between the deformation components having significant effects in high-speed systems. The method presented in this paper is tailored for structures with variable cross-sectional beam elements such as spacecraft antennae, helicopter rotor blades, robot systems, and mechanisms. The effects of rotary inertia as well as shear deformation are automatically included into the equations of motion. A method for obtaining the shape function matrix consisting of assumed dynamic modes is also presented. In addition, the preceding formulations are used in a simulation of a space-based robotic manipulator, and the results are compared with those obtained by Kane et al. in Ref. 20.
Electrolaryngeal Speech Produced by Laryngectomized Subjects: Perceptual Characteristics

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptual confusions individuals experience while listening to the speech of laryngectomized persons who used electrolarynges. Six talkers generate...
Retention and efficiency in frit-inlet asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation

Sample relaxation in the frit-inlet asymmetrical flow fieldflow fractionation (FIA-FlFFF) channel is accomplished hydrodynamically. The focusing/relaxation procedure, which is essential to the efficient operation of conventional asymmetrical flow FFF, is therefore avoided. It follows that for FIA-FlFFF there is no requirement for valve switching to achieve convergent (focusing) channel flows, and sample relaxation and separation proceed without interruption. This represents a major advance in the facility of operation of asymmetrical flow FFF. In this work, we present the derivation of equations to describe the variation in mean channel flow velocity along the full length of the frit-inlet asymmetrical channel. Equations for channel void time (the time for a nonretained material to pass through the channel) are also presented. The equations are sufficiently general so as to be applicable to both rectangular and trapezoidal channel designs. On the basis of these equations, the retention time for a sample component can be calculated by applying basic flow FFF theory. Simple equations are also presented to determine conditions consistent with complete relaxation of samples within the frit-inlet region. Such conditions ensure maximization of separation efficiency during subsequent elution. The retention and resolving power of FIA-FlFFF are demonstrated using sets of standard latex spheres and proteins. Experimental data show that retention in FIAFlFFF follows the general principles of field-flow fractionation, provided the variation in flow velocity is correctly accounted for. Finally, effects of sample load and injection volume are also discussed.
Endogenous opioid inhibition of proliferation of T and B cell subpopulations in response to immunization for experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

Background Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis, is induced by immunization of mice with myelin oligodendrocytic glycoprotein (MOG35-55) injections, and after 9 days, mice develop behavioral signs of chronic progressive EAE. Proliferation of T and B cells located in peripheral lymph tissues such as spleen and inguinal lymph nodes of C57BL/6J mice are stimulated. The opioid growth factor-opioid growth factor receptor (OGF-OGFr) axis has been shown to effectively limit progression of chronic EAE when mice are treated at the time of induction or at time of established disease. In addition to repressed behavioral profiles, spinal cord neuropathology is diminished in mice treated with OGF or low dosages of naltrexone (LDN). However, there is little or no information on peripheral lymphocyte dynamics following immunization of mice with MOG antigen and treatment with OGF or LDN.
Modeling of a nonlinear space robotic system for precision and control

Many structures in space exhibit nonlinear behavior. These nonlinearities arise due to coupling of rigid body and structural flexibility effects. Large angle attitude maneuvers such as slewing, tracking, or precision pointing (under certain operating conditions) involve nonlinear dynamics associated with rigid body kinematics. The resulting dynamical equations of motion of such systems are coupled and highly nonlinear. However, the current state of the art in design of control laws for these systems is based on linear control theory. Nonlinear systems, therefore, need to be linearized before attitude control laws can be applied. Recent research in control theory has led to nonlinear control laws capable of completely decoupling the flexible and rigid body modes. The goal of our research effort is to assess the effectiveness of these linearizing and decoupling control laws. The results of this effort will serve to provide techniques for modeling of complex flexible nonlinear space system such as the space robotic systems. In general, the paper addresses nonlinear inversion based on feedback linearization and robust stabilization of the unobserved dynamics of the linearized and decoupled system. Simulation results with some interesting insights are presented for space systems subject to rapid, large angle slewing and precision pointing. The contribution of this research lies in the development of a unified approach for modeling of a nonlinear multibody flexible system based on nonlinear inversion. The approach is valid for modeling of space robotics systems which are nonlinear multilink flexible systems.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Aggregation and Precipitation of Gold Nanoparticle Clusters in Carbon Dioxide-Gas-Expanded Liquid Dimethyl Sulfoxide

Previous post-synthesis nanoparticle processing techniques have demonstrated that carbon dioxide (CO2)-gas-expanded liquids can be used as a tool to controllably induce nanoparticle precipitation and size-selective fractionation. Until now, these previous studies have been limited to using nonpolar solvents (e.g., hexane) in CO2-gas-expanded liquids as a method to control nanoparticle precipitation by exploiting subtle changes in dispersive forces. We demonstrate a facile, post-synthesis nanoparticle processing technique to controllably aggregate gold (Au) nanoparticles into supraparticle clusters using CO2-gas-expanded dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a polar, aprotic solvent, as well as the subsequent ability to precipitate these Au nanoparticle clusters from the DMSO solvent media at moderate applied CO2 pressures. Dispersions of Au nanoparticles have been prepared in three different DMSO solutions (where DMSO can serve as both the solvent and a stabilizing ligand): (i) neat DMSO, (ii) DMSO + oleic acid, and...
The retention of dentures

accurate master casts, final survey and design, education of the patient, insertion and maintenance of the dental prosthesis are a ll of equal importance. M outh preparation may encompass a ll fields of dentistry. The importance of modification of teeth by grinding and polishing, or cast restorations to harmo­ nize w ith the path of insertion of the denture, has been discussed. These modi­ fications should provide the partia l den­ ture w ith adequate support, stability and retention w ith in the physiological lim its of the supporting structures. M od ifica­ tions of the opposing occluding surfaces are indicated to aid in establishing proper occlusion. A removable partial denture made in accordance w ith these principles is not the forerunner of a complete den­ ture, but maintains oral tissues and health. 504 Security National Bank Building
A robust high-performance time partitioning algorithm: the digital engine operating system (DEOS) approach

RTOSs supporting critical avionics applications must provide time partitioning; that is, the ability to guarantee a certain amount of execution time to applications in one time partition regardless of resource requests from applications in a different time partition. Time partitioning permits applications of differing criticalities to be cohosted on a single processor (e.g., DO-178B levels A-E). This paper presents the major design components of slack stealing with its supporting time partitioning algorithms. These algorithms have been implemented in DEOS, the RTOS developed for use in Primus Epic, Honeywell's next generation integrated avionics system. From a time partitioning perspective, DEOS differs from earlier ARINC 653 systems in that it uses preemptive fixed priority (PFP) scheduling, and consequently the time partitioning model includes preemption. Additionally, DEOS supports dynamic thread and dynamic time partition allocation. With the slack and time partitioning upgrades added to DEOS, several improvements were observed. About a threefold increase in communication throughput between a processor and a remote file server and approximately a sevenfold reduction in the amount of a priori reserved execution time required for "fast enough" response times of noncritical applications were reported. Also, certain display tasks were able to achieve higher average refresh update rates using slack. Our algorithms provide robust time partitioning capabilities, enabling the safe cohosting of COTS software with safety critical software without decreases in the COTS software performance.
The mechanics of active fin-shape control in ray-finned fishes.

We study the mechanical properties of fin rays, which are a fundamental component of fish fin structure. We derive a linear elasticity model that predicts the shape of fin rays, given the input muscle actuation and external loading. We then test the model using experiments that measure (i) the ray deflection for a given actuation at the muscular interface, and (ii) the force–displacement response under conditions of actuation and non-actuation. The model agrees well with the experiment; both show a concentration of curvature at the ray base or at the point of an externally applied force, and a variation in ray stiffness over more than an order of magnitude depending on actuation at the bases of the fin rays.