cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In utero ethanol exposure increases proenkephalin, a precursor of a neuropeptide that is inhibitory to neuronal growth.

Background: One of the effects of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is altered motor function. In an attempt to elucidate a potential cause of this ethanol-associated damage, we investigated the effects of in utero ethanol exposure on the production of proenkephalin (PE). Methods: PE is the precursor of met- and leu-enkephalin, two neuropeptides that inhibit the proliferation of neurons and astrocytes. PE mRNA and PE peptide were measured in the striatum and nucleus accumbens because of the importance of these brain regions to motor function, their sensitivity to the effects of in utero ethanol exposure, and their high concentration of PE mRNA and PE peptide. Results: The present studies demonstrated that in utero ethanol exposure is associated with increased PE mRNA in the striatum and nucleus accumbens. Of specific interest is the elevation in PE mRNA in the nucleus accumbens in 5-, 12-, and 19-day-old ethanol-exposed offspring and the fact that this change persists for at least 19 days after the last exposure to ethanol. Further studies of postnatal day 19 (PN19) offspring localized the abnormality in the nucleus accumbens to the core region, an area that contains enkephalinergic projections to another motor area–the substantia nigra. In the nucleus accumbens, the increased PE mRNA was associated with a greater proportion of PE-expressing neurons that have 41% to 60% of the cell area covered by grains associated with PE mRNA. Conclusions: Although we were not able to detect a change in the concentration of the PE peptide in the nucleus accumbens or striatum, we cannot rule out the possibility that the increase in PE mRNA was reflective of a functional abnormality.
Transesophageal atrial pacing using a pill electrode for the termination of atrial flutter.

To determine the efficacy of transesophageal rapid atrial pacing with a “pill-electrode” for the termination of atrial flutter, we studied 14 consecutive unselected patients presenting with atrial flutter of various etiologies. The bipolar pill-electrode (interelectrode distance 13 mm) was introduced orally without sedation. Of 14 pacing attempts, atrial capture was obtained in 13 (93 percent), and sustained alteration in rhythm (atrial fibrillation, sinus rhythm or type 2 flutter) in 12 (86 percent). Normal sinus rhythm occurred in six (43 percent), in all of whom it was preceded by transient atrial fibrillation. There was no difference in baseline flutter rates, pacing rates for atrial capture, or duration of flutter between patients reverting to sinus rhythm and those remaining in flutter or converting to atrial fibrillation. Facing was well tolerated in all but one subject. Thus, esophageal pacing with the pill-electrode was simple to perform, well-tolerated and highly successful for atrial capture in patients with atrial flutter. Although it had a lower success rate than DC cardioversion in producing sinus rhythm, the simplicity of application makes it a useful initial alternative, particularly in patients in whom cardioversion may be hazardous.
Triumph From Anguish: The Inspiration of the Special Olympics

Through violent revolution or quiet changes to laws, societies across the globe are working toward the ideal of equality for all, but this equality is particularly elusive for one segment of the human family—people with intellectual disabilities. In every society on Earth, this population is routinely denied access to health care, education, employment, social contact, and other opportunities that lead to long, fulfilling lives. The Special Olympics movement is waging a dignity revolution worldwide to change this reality though the efforts of hundreds of thousands of volunteers working with more than 4 million athletes. The equality challenge for Special Olympics is unlike that of any other because it does not rest on the ideal of achieving sameness but rather on the opposite ideal of welcoming difference. This will require not just the addition of services for “them” but an attitude change for all of “us.” When international bodies and policymakers meet, they will need to include people with intellectual...
Endoscopic staple diverticulostomy for recurrent Zenker's diverticulum.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility, effectiveness, and morbidity of using endoscopic staple diverticulostomy (ESD) as treatment for Zenker's diverticulum (ZD) recurring after either prior endoscopic treatment or external diverticulectomy or diverticulopexy. Study Design: A retrospective review of a case series of 18 patients with recurrent ZD. Methods: All patients cared for with ZD were evaluated to identify those patients with recurrent ZD. The clinical records of patients with recurrent ZD were reviewed for: demographics, prior treatment, time to recurrence, factors associated with recurrence, technical feasibility of treatment, complications, effectiveness and duration of symptom relief. Results: Between March 1995 and July 2001, a total of 127 consecutive patients with ZD received care. Eighteen of these patients were treated for recurrent ZD: nine treated originally by ESD, and nine by external approach (seven by diverticulectomy and two by diverticulopexy), with three of these patients treated twice. Seventeen patients had partial or complete relief of symptoms after their initial treatment, with recurrence of symptoms noted 0 to 60 months later. Specific factors associated with recurrence of symptoms were identified in only one patient. Treatment of recurrent ZD by ESD was technically feasible in 16 of the patients. Complete or improved symptom relief has been reported by 16 of the patients after revision ESD, with follow-up from 9 to 69 months. No significant treatment complications occurred. Fifteen patients resumed clear liquid diet on the day of surgery, and one on the day after surgery. All patients were discharged from the hospital by the second postoperative day (mean = 0.6 d). Conclusions: ESD is an effective, technically feasible, and safe treatment for patients with ZD recurring after prior endoscopic or external treatment, and it should be the initial treatment of choice for these patients.
Synthetic scleral reinforcement materials. III. Changes in surface and bulk physical properties

Changes in the physical properties of polymer materials during implantation in the biological environment can directly affect the ultimate performance of the polymer and/or device. We implanted four types of extraocular bands (porous, solid, composite, and patched) made from 11 types of materials in rabbit eyes and examined the changes in the physical strength and polymer structure of the implanted bands in terms of tensile strength measurements, creep analysis, and attenuated total internal reflectance--Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) at intervals up to 18 months after implantation. Most of the materials showed increases in tensile strength over the first 6 months in situ in the rabbit eye, followed by significant decreases between 6 and 18 months. Polymer bands that had been implanted for 18 months generally exhibited less creep behavior than unimplanted controls; for most of the bands, creep values ranged from 0% to 10% of the original length. ATR-FTIR of the solid bands and surface coatings showed protein deposition on all of the materials examined, with silicone materials and coatings least affected. Thirty-degree ATR-FTIR scans detected significant changes in the polymer structure for two of the band types: one solid (polyether urethane) and one porous (porous polyacrylate). In general, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene was the most stable in terms of tensile strength and creep. The least stable bands (composite bands made with porous polyurethane) were those that had undergone hydrolytic and/or oxidative degradation and chain scission of the polymer or alteration of the bond between the two materials making up the composite. These changes in physical properties and polymer structure observed after 18 months of implantation support the idea that polymer implant materials should be followed closely over several years in vivo to determine their suitability prior to use in humans.
Magnetic force microscopy of high-density perpendicular magnetic recording media

Abstract Multilayer Pt/Co and Pt/CoCrTa thin film structures have been fabricated that display different levels of intergranular exchange coupling. Perpendicular magnetic recordings of continuous wave patterns have been made using single pole contact heads and examined using a magnetic force microscope (MFM). Analysis of the MFM images show that the recording capabilities of the media are correlated inversely with both the degree of intergranular coupling and the equilibrium domain size. With exchange isolation of the grains, transitions may be written at linear densities > 300 kfci with good fidelity.
Using Empirical Research and Computational Modeling to Predict Operator Response to Unexpected Events

This paper describes an effort to model and predict astronaut performance during sudden workload transitions in long duration missions. Our approach to the work is heavily based on empirical research. We have performed a set of meta-analyses 1) to identify the quantitative effects of poor sleep on task accuracy and task completion time, and 2) to develop a model of operator task selection during multitasking. We are currently developing a model, based on a literature review, to predict the effects of automation design factors on operator task performance. This paper gives an overview of the project, presents the overall model of operator performance during a workload transition, and describes the empirical and theoretical underpinnings of a model that predicts the effects of automation design on operator performance.
The effect of material composition and operational variables on the erosion of alumina ceramics

Abstract The erosion behavior of five different aluminas, with and without the silicate glassy phase and zirconia, was studied in a sandblast type of test rig. The effects of the target parameters, such as microstructure, composition and mechanical properties, and the operational parameters, namely impingement angle, velocity, particle size and erodent concentration, were investigated. Eroded surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy to provide an understanding of the erosion mechanisms involved. It was found that the erosion resistance of pure alumina was the lowest and that the resistance was improved by the presence of glassy phase and zirconia in the other aluminas. The erosion resistance increased with increasing hardness and fracture toughness. The erosion damage occurred in the form of intergranular and transgranular cracking, the extent of each type of cracking depending upon the compositions and microstructures of the aluminas.
Attenuation of cocaine kindling by 7-nitroindazole, an inhibitor of brain nitric oxide synthase.

Recent studies suggest the involvement of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) type of glutamate receptors and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the process of increased sensitivity to the convulsive effect of cocaine ("cocaine kindling"). The present study was undertaken to analyze the various behavioral stages in the development of cocaine kindling and to investigate the effect of 7-nitroindazole (7-NI), a relatively selective inhibitor of the neuronal NOS isoform, on the induction and expression of sensitization to the convulsive effect of cocaine. Also, the effect of 7-NI on responses produced by acute systemic administration of cocaine or N-methyl-D,L-aspartate (NMDLA) was investigated. Cocaine kindling was assessed on a five-stage scale following the administration of a sub-convulsant dose of the drug (35 mg/kg/day; i.p.) to Swiss Webster mice for 10 days. Stage 5 seizures developed following the 9th day of cocaine administration. Pre-treatment with 7-NI (25 mg/kg/day; i.p.) 15 min before cocaine for 10 days completely prevented the appearance of stage 4 and 5 seizures, and it significantly attenuated stage 3 behavior in response to a challenge cocaine dose (35 mg/kg) given either 24 hr or 10 days after 7-NI/cocaine administration was stopped. A single injection of 7-NI (25 mg/kg; i.p.) completely prevented the expression of cocaine kindled seizures. Whereas 7-NI had no effect on the responses elicited by acute cocaine administration (60 mg/kg; i.p.), this agent partially attenuated the effects induced by systemic administration of the NMDA receptor agonist NMDLA (250 mg/kg; i.p.). The present study indicates that 7-NI attenuates both the induction and expression of sensitization to the convulsive effect of cocaine. The findings that 7-NI attenuated cocaine kindling and partially blocked the effects produced by activation of the NMDA receptor, but not the effects induced by acute cocaine administration, support the role of the NMDA receptor and brain NOS in the development of cocaine kindling rather than in the acute effects of the drug.
Delineating the role of polyphenol oxidase in the darkening of alkaline wheat noodles.

This study evaluated the effects of inhibitors on polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, the effect of the PPO inhibitor tropolone on noodle darkening, and the correlation of PPO activity with darkening of alkaline noodles. The PPO inhibitors tropolone and salicylhydroxamic acid (each at 1 IM) reduced kernel PPO activity by approximately 50% in three hexaploid wheat cultivars but did not inhibit PPO activity in the two very low PPO cultivars, durum Langdon, and the synthetic hexaploid-derived ID580. Tropolone (100 Ig/g flour) inhibited alkaline noodle darkening (¢L*) by 13-25% in the low PPO wheat cultivar, ID377s, and by 39-54% in the high PPO wheat cultivar, Klasic. Alkaline noodle darkening among 502 wheat samples was correlated with kernel PPO activity (r ) 0.64). Results substantiate the hypothesis that PPO plays a major role in darkening of alkaline noodles. However, results also indicate that substantial darkening would occur even at zero PPO activity, as measured in the kernel PPO assay. Therefore, darkening of alkaline noodles is probably due to the cultivarspecific level of PPO activity and the presence of at least one additional darkening mechanism. Further investigation is required to identify the phenolic discoloration agent(s) and to determine the potential roles of non-PPO discoloration mechanisms, both enzymatic and nonenzymatic, in wheat products.
Interpersonal cognitive differentiation measures as predictors of written communication ability

Numerous instruments have been proposed to measure interpersonal cognitive differentiation or complexity. Unfortunately, previous research has shown these measures to be only marginally related (O'Keefe & Sypher, 1981). This investigation sought to unravel this methodological tangle by providing further evidence bearing on the comparative validity of several measures of cognitive differentiation as predictors of two written persuasive tasks: a fund‐raising task and a job application letter task. Regression analyses indicated that the Ziller, Martell, and Morrison (1977) self differentiation measure and Crockett's (1965) Role Category Questionnaire were both significantly related and significant predictors of the criterion variables, while Bieri et al.'s (1966) measure was virtually unrelated to any of the study variables.
Identifying maize in neotropical sediments and soilsusing cob phytoliths

Abstract Phytoliths—plant opal silica bodies—identified as maize (Zea mays, Poaceae) cob bodies have been recognized in residues from prehistoric pottery vessels and in human dental calculus. Maize cob phytoliths had not been formally tested against similar phytoliths produced in wild grass inflorescences, which are likely to be encountered in soils and sediments. We report the results of such tests, and formalize maize cob diagnostic types to permit separation of maize cob phytoliths from wild Zea (teosinte) and wild panicoid grasses in soils and sediments from the lowland Neotropics. Blind tests of the formalized types demonstrate the reliability of the identification protocol, and reveal a tendency for under-identification. Comparison of phytoliths extracted from charred maize cupules and sediments containing those cupules from the Pechichal site in the Jama River valley, coastal Ecuador, demonstrates that cob phytoliths are readily recognizable in sediments, but that cob phytolith assemblages may be altered in the burial environment, or during chemical processing.
Genetic evidence for limited dispersal in the coastal California killifish, Fundulus parvipinnis.

Abstract The California killifish, Fundulus parvipinnis , is a marine species that lives in salt marshes, estuaries and wetlands along the California and Baja California coasts. In order to estimate levels of dispersal between different coastal habitats over its range, we have studied six populations using morphological and genetic markers. Lateral line scale and vertebrae counts showed significant differences between individuals collected north of Punta Eugenia and south of Punta Eugenia. Morphological differences across Punta Eugenia were accompanied by large genetic differences at the mitochondrial control region (5.8%). Gene flow was in general very reduced over the range of the species (pairwise average F st =0.70, Nm =0.30), with a strong break at Punta Eugenia ( F st =0.95, Nm =0.03). Such limited interchanges between coastal habitats have important theoretical and conservation implications.
The osmotic/calcium stress theory of brain damage: are free radicals involved?

This overview presents data showing that glucose use increases and that excitatory amino acids (i.e., glutamate, aspartate), taurine and ascorbate increase in the extracellular fluid during seizures. During the cellular hyperactive state taurine appears to serve as an osmoregulator and ascorbate may serve as either an antioxidant or as a pro-oxidant. Finally, a unifying hypothesis is given for seizure-induced brain damage. This unifying hypothesis states that during seizures there is a release of excitatory amino acids which act on glutamatergic receptors, increasing neuronal activity and thereby increasing glucose use. This hyperactivity of cells causes an influx of calcium (i.e., calcium stress) and water movements (i.e., osmotic stress) into the cells that culminate in brain damage mediated by reactive oxygen species.
EFFECT OF METFORMIN ON MYOCARDIAL INJURY IN KNOWN DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH ST-SEGMENT ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: A PROPENSITY-SCORE MATCHED ANALYSIS

While animal studies have documented cardio-protective effects of metformin, the impact in humans remains elusive. We investigated the effect of metformin on myocardial infarct size in diabetic patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Data extraction utilized the
Pragmatism vs. Postmodernism: The Struggle between Philosophy and Poetry

Rethinking Postmodernism(s): Charles S. Peirce and the Pragmatist Negotiations of Thomas Pynchon, Toni Morrison, and Jonathan Safran Foer. By Katrin Amian (Amsterdam: Rodopi, 2008), ix + 239 pp. $7...
Effects of manganese on the fluorescence of chloroplasts.

In all schematic presentations of the electron transport system of chloroplasts, manganese is shown to act close to the site of water oxidation. Yet, the possibility has not been ruled out that manganese functions on the reducing side of the oxygen-evolving photosystem II. In the present communication evidence will be presented which supports the old concept of a participation of manganese in reactions close to the site of oxygen evolution. These results have emerged from comparative fluorescence studies on normal and manganesedeficient chloroplasts. Three main parameters of the fluorescence of isolated chloroplasts were considered: (1) the level F, reached immediately upon illumination. Its height depends, at least in part, on the structural organization of the chloroplasts (Homann, in press); (2) the level Fco attained after a few seconds by a slow fluorescence rise which is believed to reflect the reduction of a primary pool of electron acceptors Q (Duysens and Sweers, 1963); (3) the fluorescence yield F inh in the presence of an inhibitor of oxygen evolution like DCMU. Since under the latter conditions no electrons from the acceptor pool are lost to photosystem I (Duysens and Sweers, 1963), Finh is usually equal to or only slightly higher than Fm.
Can elevated levels of copper in drinking water precipitate acute hemolysis in G-6-PD deficient individuals?

The hypothesis that elevated levels of copper in drinking water may be a factor in the precipitation of acute hemolysis in those with a G-6-PD deficiency in their erythrocytes is developed. The present U.S. EPA drinking water standards do not have a primary (or human health) standard for copper but only a secondary standard which is designed to prevent an unacceptable taste. Because of the widespread occurrence of elevated levels of copper in drinking water in areas where the water is corrosive and the households have copper piping, it is recommended that environmental health regulatory agencies develop a risk assessment concerning the effects of copper on those high risk groups who are predisposed to develop a copper induced hemolysis.
Refractivity of combustion gases

Abstract A comprehensive survey of the refractive indices and dispersions of gases that are found in practical or laboratory combustion experiments is reported. A critical evaluation was used to obtain recommended values where experimental data are available; where they are not, sums of atomic and bond refractivities were used. The results are tabulated as molar refractivities at common laser wavelengths and as the constants of Cauchy dispersion formulas.
The TRAP-Like SplA Protein Is a trans-Acting Negative Regulator of Spore Photoproduct Lyase Synthesis during Bacillus subtilis Sporulation

UV resistance of bacterial endospores derives from a unique DNA photochemistry in which the major UV photoproduct is the thymine dimer 5-thyminyl-5,6-dihydrothymine (spore photoproduct [SP]) instead of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers. Repair of SP during spore germination is due in large part to the activity of the enzyme SP lyase encoded by splB, the second cistron of the splAB operon. Expression of the splAB operon in Bacillus subtilis is transcriptionally activated by the EςG form of RNA polymerase during morphological stage III in the developing forespore compartment, and SP lyase is packaged into the dormant spore. In addition to temporal and compartmental control of splAB expression, a second regulatory circuit which modulates the level of expression of splB-lacZ fusions without altering their developmental timing or compartmentalization is reported here. This second regulatory circuit involves the negative action of the splA gene product, a 79-amino-acid protein with approximately 50% similarity and 17% identity to TRAP, the tryptophan RNA-binding attenuation protein from B. subtilis and Bacillus pumilus.
SALT CURE AND DRYING‐TIME AND TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON VIABILITY OF Trichinella spiralis IN DRY‐CURED HAMS

SUMMARY– An official USDA dry-cure ham processing procedure was evaluated for efficacy in devitalizing trichinae. The procedure consisted basically of a 40-day salt cure followed by 10 days of drying at 95° F or above. Within the cure period, marked loss of viability was noted only for trichinae in muscle with brine concentrations approaching 8%. The drying temperature was the critical factor in devitalizing trichinae. 28 days' cure followed by 6 days of drying at 98° F destroyed viability of all parasites regardless of brine concentration. Other effective drying time-temperature combinations included: 125° F-4 days; 70° F-35 days and 40°F-190 days.
Phase transitions in systems with a finite number of dominant ground states

We develop a theory of low-temperature phases of discrete lattice systems which is guided by formal perturbation theory, and which in turn yields its rigorous justification. The theory applies to many systems with an infinite number of ground states for which the perturbation theory predicts a finite number of low-temperature phases. We illustrate it on a number of examples.
Bifunctional initiators for free radical polymerization of non-crosslinked block copolymers

Abstract Novel bifunctional initiators have been designed with functional groups that independently produce free radicals. Initiators were synthesized to contain both diazene (NN) and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyl-1-oxy (TEMPO) moieties tethered by ester or ether linkages. It is anticipated that these compounds will be useful for producing a diverse number of block copolymers for applications in polymer-supported organic synthesis and materials science.
Predictors and Risk of Pacemaker Implantation After the Cox-Maze IV Procedure

Background The incidence of and causes for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM) after surgical arrhythmia procedures remain poorly understood because of the varied lesion patterns and energy sources reported in small series. This study characterized the incidence, indications, and risk factors for PPM after the Cox-maze IV (CMIV) procedure when performed as either a lone or a concomitant procedure. Methods A retrospective analysis of 340 patients undergoing a CMIV as either a lone (n = 112) or a concomitant (n = 228) procedure was conducted. The incidence, indication, and variables associated with PPM implantation within 1 year of the operation were assessed. Follow-up was conducted at 30 days and 1 year and was 90% complete. Results The incidence of PPM after a lone CMIV procedure was 5%. Patients with concomitant cardiac operations had a nonsignificant increase in PPM insertion at 30 days (11% vs 5%, p = 0.14) and 1 year (15% vs 6%, p = 0.06) when compared with lone CMIV patients. Of patients who required pacemakers, sinus node dysfunction was present in 79% (35/44) of patients in the entire series and in 88% (8/9) after lone CMIV. After PPM, 84% (37/44) of patients remained paced at last follow-up. Multivariate analysis identified age (odds ratio = 1.10 [1.06–1.14], p Conclusions The risk of PPM implantation after a lone CMIV is 5% and increases with age. The need for a PPM after a CMIV is largely due to SA node dysfunction, which appears unlikely to recover. These data should help physicians counsel patients regarding the perioperative risks associated with the CMIV.
Vibrational modes of GaN nanowires in the gigahertz range

Brillouin-light-scattering measurements and finite-element modeling of vibrational spectra in the range of 5-40 GHz are presented for an array of monocrystalline GaN nanowires with hexagonal cross sections. Analysis of the spectra is substantially complicated by the presence of a distribution of nanowire diameters. The measurements and calculations reveal a variety of modes with simple flexural, higher-order flexural, approximately 'plane-strain', approximately longitudinal and torsional displacement patterns that are similar to the corresponding modes of isotropic cylinders. The largest peaks in the spectra with acoustic angular wavenumbers in the range of 4 to ~15 μm(-1) were determined to arise from modes with relatively large transverse displacements, consistent with inelastic light scattering arising predominantly from surface ripple. These dominant modes have finite frequencies in the limit of zero wavenumber, corresponding to transverse standing waves. At higher wavenumbers, the spectra provide evidence for increased scattering through elasto-optic coupling, especially with respect to the emergence of a peak from a mode analogous to the longitudinal guided modes of thin films.
Variability of the martian seasonal CO2 cap extent over eight Mars Years

We present eight Mars Years of nearly continuous tracking of the CO2 seasonal cap edges from Mars Year (MY) 24 to 31 using Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) Mars Climate Sounder (MCS) thermal infrared data. Spatial and temporal resolutions are 1 pixel per degree and 10°Ls (aerocentric longitude of the Sun). The seasonal caps are defined as the regions where the diurnal radiometric temperature variations at ∼32 μm wavelength do not exceed 5 K. With this definition, terrains with small areal fraction of defrosted regolith able to experience measurable diurnal temperature cycles are not mapped as part of the cap. This technique is adequate to distinguish CO2 from H2O ices, and effective during the polar night or under low illumination conditions. The present analysis answers outstanding questions stemming from fragmented observations at visible wavelengths: (1) the previously sparsely documented growth of the North seasonal caps (160° < Ls < 270°) is shown to be repeatable within 1–2° equivalent latitude, and monotonic over the MY 24–31 time period; high repeatability is observed during the retreat of the caps in non-dusty years (∼1° or less equivalent latitude); (2) the MY 25 storm does not seem to have impacted the growth rate, maximal extents, or recession rate of the North seasonal caps, whereas the MY 28 dust storm clearly sped up the recession of the cap (∼2° smaller on average after the storm, during the recession, compared to other years); (3) during non-dusty years, the growth of the South seasonal cap (350° < Ls < 100°) presents noticeable variability (up to ∼4° equivalent latitude near Ls = 20°) with a maximum extent reached near Ls = 90°; (4) the retreat of the Southern seasonal cap (100° < Ls < 310°) exhibits large inter-annual variability, especially near 190° < Ls < 220°; (5) the recession of the MY 25 South seasonal cap is significantly accelerated during the equinox global dust storm, with surface temperatures suggesting increased patchiness or enhanced dust mantling on the CO2 ice. These results suggest that atmospheric temperatures and dust loading are the primary source of variability in an otherwise remarkably repeatable cycle of seasonal cap growth and recession.
The effect of temperature changes on the spontaneous nervous activity of the isolated nerve cord of Lumbricus terrestris.

Abstract 1. 1. The effect of changing temperature upon the spontaneous nervous activity of the central nervous system of Lumbricus terrestris has been investigated. 2. 2. The curves obtained for steady rate discharges at various temperatures show optima in the range 13–17°C. 3. 3. Nervous responses are of three types (a) no alteration in frequency over a wide range of temperatures, (b) a speeding up on warming and a slowing down on cooling, and (c) an anomalous transient in which warming causes an initial slowing of the rate, and cooling causes an initial increase in the rate. 4. 4. The earthworm thus shows responses to temperature similar to those of the slug, crayfish and cockroach.
P03-485 - Behavioral, chronic and mental health in minority women: results from the national Latino Asian American study

Introduction Asian Americans and Latino women underutilize mental health services. Studies show Asian American women have higher depression scores and less physical activity than their male counterparts. Ethnic minorities are deterred from seeking mental health care in a timely manner or from following appropriate treatment guidelines. Asian American women are less likely to seek mental health services compared to Latina and white women. Mental health issues in Asian and Latina women may be masked by psychosomatic complaints. Data from the National Latino Asian American Study, the first comprehensive epidemiological study of Asian Americans and Latinos in the USA. Objectives To examine the behavioral, chronic and mental health issues in Latina and Asian American women. Methods 3,012 Asian American and Latina American women from six ethnic subgroups (Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Cuban, Mexican, and Puerto Rican Americans) from metropolitan areas were interviewed. Measures include behavioral, drug, chronic health conditions, and mental health issues, and frequency of health service seeking using T-tests and ANOVA. Results The results showed Asian Americans women have less heart disease compared with Latina American women, but higher rates of smoking. More Filipinos rated their health as “Excellent” compared with Chinese and Vietnamese, and experience less major depressive disorder than their Asian counterparts. All three Asian American subgroups experience less anxiety than Latina American women. Conclusions While raters of mental health problems may be low, they are unique in how they manifest themselves, and in the distinct ways in which they seek health services. There are marked differences among major ethnic subgroups.
Selectivity of the Renal Collecting Duct Water Channel Aquaporin-3

Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) is a water channel found in the basolateral cell membrane of principal cells of the renal collecting tubule as well as in other epithelia. To examine the selectivity of AQP3, the permeability to water (Pf), urea (Pur), and glycerol (Pgly) of Xenopus oocytes injected with cRNA encoding AQP3 was measured. Oocytes injected with cRNA encoding either human or rat aquaporin-1 (AQP1) were used as controls. Although both aquaporins permit water flow across the cell membrane, only AQP3 was permeable to glycerol and urea (Pgly > Pur). The uptake of glycerol into oocytes expressing AQP3 was linear up to 165 mM. For AQP3 the Arrhenius energy of activation for Pf was 3 kcal/mol, whereas for Pgly and Pur it was >12 kcal/mol. The sulfhydryl reagent p-chloromercuriphenylsulfonate (1 mM) abolished Pf of AQP3, whereas it did not affect Pgly. In addition, phloretin (0.1 mM) inhibited Pf of AQP3 by 35%, whereas it did not alter Pgly or Pur. We conclude that water does not share the same pathway with glycerol or urea in AQP3 and that this aquaporin, therefore, forms a water-selective channel.
Psychologists' belief in visual emission.

In their article “Fundamentally Misunderstanding Visual Perception: Adults’ Belief in Visual Emissions,” Winer, Cottrell, Gregg, Fournier, and Bica (June/July 2002) repeatedly expressed their profound sense of disturbance regarding perceptual misconceptions present among college students (pp. 418, 420). I suggest that the visual emission phenomenon (VEP) studied by Winer et al. might not be as widespread and disconcerting as portrayed in the article. Issues 1 and 2, below, dealing with possible ambiguities in the visual emission paradigm, may relieve the threat of an increasingly ignorant college graduate population revealed by a belief in visual emissions. Winer et al. (2002) suggested that a line of animated dots moving from the eye of a human profile toward a green box (depicted on a computer screen) indicates visual emission. Likewise, they assumed that the paperand-pencil version (an arrow drawn from an eye to an object) expresses the same notion, also referred to as extramission (Winer et al., 2002, p. 419).
Group 9 Chalcogenometalates.

The compounds [K(18-crown-6)](3)[Ir(Se(4))(3)] (1), [K(2.2.2-cryptand)](3)[Ir(Se(4))(3)].C(6)H(5)CH(3) (2), and [K(18-crown-6)(DMF)(2)][Ir(NCCH(3))(2)(Se(4))(2)] (3) (DMF = dimethylformamide) have been prepared from the reaction of [Ir(NCCH(3))(2)(COE)(2)][BF(4)] (COE = cyclooctene) with polyselenide anions in acetonitrile/DMF. Analogous reactions utilizing [Rh(NCCH(3))(2)(COE)(2)][BF(4)] as a Rh source produce homologues of the Ir complexes; these have been characterized by (77)Se NMR spectroscopy. [NH(4)](3)[Ir(S(6))(3)].H(2)O.0.5CH(3)CH(2)OH (4) has been synthesized from the reaction of IrCl(3).nH(2)O with aqueous (NH(4))(2)S(m)(). In the structure of [K(18-crown-6)](3)[Ir(Se(4))(3)] (1) the Ir(III) center is chelated by three Se(4)(2)(-) ligands to form a distorted octahedral anion. The structure contains a disordered racemate of the Deltalambdalambdalambda and Lambdadeltadeltadelta conformers. The K(+) cations are pulled out of the planes of the crowns and interact with Se atoms of the [Ir(Se(4))(3)](3)(-) anion. [K(2.2.2-cryptand)](3)[Ir(Se(4))(3)].C(6)H(5)CH(3) (2) possesses no short K.Se interactions; here the [Ir(Se(4))(3)](3)(-) anion crystallizes as the Deltalambdalambdadelta/Lambdadeltadeltalambda racemate. In the crystal structure of [K(18-crown-6)(DMF)(2)][Ir(NCCH(3))(2)(Se(4))(2)] (3), the K(+) cation is coordinated by an 18-crown-6 ligand and two DMF molecules and the anion comprises an octahedral Ir(III) center bound by two chelating Se(4)(2)(-) chains and two trans acetonitrile groups. The [Ir(Se(4))(3)](3)(-) and [Rh(Se(4))(3)](3)(-) anions undergo conformational transformations as a function of temperature, as observed by (77)Se NMR spectroscopy. The thermodynamics of these transformations are: [Ir(Se(4))(3)](3)(-), DeltaH = 2.5(5) kcal mol(-)(1), DeltaS = 11.5(2.2) eu; [Rh(Se(4))(3)](3)(-), DeltaH = 5.2(7) kcal mol(-)(1), DeltaS = 24.7(3.0) eu.
Rheological measurements as a tool to study curing of water borne clear coats

Abstract Rheology measurements were used to study the flash off and curing of 2 pack water borne clear coats. By analysing the viscoelastic properties of the water borne clear coats and by correlating the results to model formulations curing can be examined in detail. The comparison with a corresponding solvent borne formulation leads to conclusions about the influence of water on the viscoelastic properties and the impact of water on the curing reaction.
Recent advances in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects about 0.5% to 1 % of the population worldwide. Because there is no cure for this disease, the goal of therapy is to control the underlying inflammatory process and maintain or improve function. This article reviews 4 new treatments for patients with RA: leflunomide, etanercept, infliximab, and the protein A immunoadsorption column with plasmapheresis therapy.
A complexity model for sequence planning in mixed-model assembly lines

Abstract Sequence planning is an important problem in assembly line design. It is to determine the order of assembly tasks to be performed sequentially. Significant research has been done to find good sequences based on various criteria, such as process time, investment cost, and product quality. This paper discusses the selection of optimal sequences based on complexity induced by product variety in mixed-model assembly line. The complexity was defined as operator choice complexity, which indirectly measures the human performance in making choices, such as selecting parts, tools, fixtures, and assembly procedures in a multi-product, multi-stage, manual assembly environment. The complexity measure and its model for assembly lines have been developed in an earlier paper by the authors. According to the complexity models developed, assembly sequence determines the directions in which complexity flows. Thus proper assembly sequence planning can reduce complexity. However, due to the difficulty of handling the directions of complexity flows in optimization, a transformed network flow model is formulated and solved based on dynamic programming. Methodologies developed in this paper extend the previous work on modeling complexity, and provide solution strategies for assembly sequence planning to minimize complexity.
Frequency of apolipoprotein E (APOE) allele types in patients with Chlamydia-associated arthritis and other arthritides

Genetic background is important in determining whether certain infecting bacteria disseminate to the joint and cause arthritis. We assessed whether APOE genotype is associated with the presence of DNA from Chlamydia or other bacteria in synovial tissues of patients with various arthritides. Nucleic acids from synovial tissues of 135 patients were screened by PCR for DNA from Chlamydia trachomatis, C. pneumoniae and other bacteria (pan-bacteria). APOE genotype was determined by a PCR-based method for all patients in each of four resulting groups comprised of about 35 individuals each, positive for C. trachomatis only, C. pneumoniae only, other bacteria, or no bacteria. RT-PCR was used to assess synovial APOE expression. The latter assays confirmed that APOE mRNA is present in synovial tissue. Determination of APOE genotype showed that patients PCR-negative in all assays, and those positive in the C. trachomatis - and pan-bacteria- (excluding Chlamydia) directed assays, had distributions of the APOE epsilon2, epsilon3 and epsilon4 alleles mirroring those of the general population (i.e. about 8%, 79% and 13%, respectively). In contrast, 68% of patients with C. pneumoniae DNA in synovium possessed a copy of the epsilon4 allele. These results indicate that no association exists between APOE genotype and synovial presence of C. trachomatis or other bacteria. However, individuals bearing at least one copy of the APOE epsilon4 allele may be at increased risk for synovial infection by C. pneumoniae.
The effect of network architecture on the thermal and mechanical behavior of epoxy resins

The effects of crosslink functionality (fc), molecular weight between crosslinks (Mc), and chain stiffness display on the thermal and mechanical behavior of epoxy networks are determined. Both fc and Mc are controlled by blending different functionality amines with a difunctional epoxy resin. Chain stiffness is controlled by changing the chemical structure of the various amines. In agreement with rubber elasticity theory, the rubbery moduli are dependent on fc and Mc, but independent of chain stiffness. The glassy moduli and secondary relaxations of these networks are relatively independent of fc, Mc, and chain stiffness. However, the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of these networks are dependent on all three structural variables. This trend is consistent with free volume theory and entropic theories of Tg. fc, Mc, and chain stiffness control the yield strength of these networks in a manner similar to that of Tg and is the result that both properties involve flow or relaxation processes. Fracture toughness, as measured by the critical stress intensity factor (KIc), revealed that fc and Mc are both critical parameters. The fracture behavior is the result of the fracture toughness being controlled by the ability of the network to yield in front of the crack tip. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 36: 1371–1382, 1998
The Text of Goodf and John Donne’s Itinerary in April 1613

Two manuscript copies of John Donne’s poem entitled in the first edition of his poems “Goodfriday, 1613. Riding Westward” came to light in the 1970s, both in the hand of Nathaniel Rich, an acquaintance of Donne and a member of a family with whom Donne had other connections. This essay expands on early analysis of these manuscripts to argue for their importance. The versions of the poem they convey are coherent and substantially different from its received text, and geographical indications in their headings are compatible with a 1613 journey Donne may have made in the company of Rich himself or someone Rich knew. In relation to the canonical version of Donne’s poem, these two manuscripts seem to record a revising mind at work, possibly Rich’s, conceivably that of Donne himself.
Design criteria and development of components for a modular CCD-based detector for x-ray crystallography

X-ray detector systems for protein crystallographic applications require a large active area and a high detective quantum efficiency (DQE). Using large-format scientific CCDs we are developing a detector based on multiple modules each consisting of a fiberoptic taper with a phosphor x-ray converter deposited on the large end and a CCD coupled to the small end. This approach contrasts with the more typical method of imaging a large area onto a single sensor which requires intensification stages. This system will provide a greater DQE lower spatial and response nonuniformities a smaller package size higher spatial resolution and uniformity and greater reliability. The construction of this system has necessitated development and cha racterization of x-ray-tolight phosphor converters and techniques for coupling fiberoptics to COD imagers. Refinement of phosphor deposition and reflective enhancement methods has led to an increase in phosphor conversion efficiencies over our previous methods of -80. A system to epoxy bond fiberoptic tapers to both front and back illuminated COD imagers with precise control over positioning and clamp force has been developed and tested with fiber faceplates. 1.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Experimental study of an innovative solar water desalination system utilizing a passive vacuum technique

A solar desalination system based on an innovative passive vacuum concept, utilizing low-grade solar heat, was studied experimentally. The system uses the natural means of gravity and atmospheric pressure to create a vacuum, under which liquid can be evaporated at much lower temperatures and with less energy than conventional techniques. A vacuum equivalent to 3.7 kPa (abs) or less can be created depending on the ambient temperature at which condensation will take place. The system consists of a heat source, an evaporator, a condenser, and injection, withdrawal and discharge pipes. The effect of various operating conditions (withdrawal rate, depth of water body and temperature of the heat source) were studied experimentally and compared with theoretical results. The experimental results agreed well with the theoretical predictions. It was found that the effects of withdrawal rate and the depth of water in the evaporator were small while the effect of heat source temperature was significant.
Semi-diurnal wind variation in the friction layer above the tropical ocean

Conventional theory predicts that in the layer of frictional influence, the semi-diurnal forcing by pressure-gradient oscillations should produce responses in air motion which show reduced amplitude and phase-leading, in comparison with frictionless conditions in the free troposphere. Wind-profile data obtained by anemometers on a floating mast during the ‘1965-Atlantic Meteor Expedition’ at an anchor station in the SE-trade-wind regime near the equator showed that the amplitude of the west component at the 4-m level practically equalled the fr ictionless value, while other measurements gave evidence of frictional effects, such as phase-leading, and vertical shear from 1 to 10 m. The observed wind response is explained by dynamic coupling as a consequence of forcing by the horizontal pressure gradient oscillation and resulting semi-diurnal variation of surface stress and therefore of eddy diffusivity.
Annual Mean Surface Heat Fluxes in the Tropical Pacific Ocean

Abstract The four components of the long-term annual mean net surface heating of the tropical Pacific Ocean between 30°N and 40°S are calculated and portrayed. These flux elements were derived by using the bulk formulas and about 5 million marine weather reports for the years 1957–76. In addition to illustrating the mean solar, latent heat, infrared radiation and sensible heat fluxes, annual mean values of the atmospheric variables which contribute to those fluxes also are illustrated. A simple error analysis is carried out from which it is concluded that the 95% confidence bands for solar heating, latent heat loss and net oceanic heating are ±29, ±39 and ±49 W m−2, from the respective mean values. The validity of the results for the net heating is partially tested by comparing the horizontal heat transports required by the pattern of heating with independent estimates of those dynamical transports.
Conservative full-potential model for unsteady transonic rotor flows

On developpe un programme d'ordinateur pour resoudre une formulation tridimensionnelle conservative de l'equation de potentiel complet. On fait la demonstration de son aptitude a resoudre les ecoulements de rotor instationnaires et transsoniques