cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanical properties of silicon nanowires

Silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are at the top of the list of materials used in conventional electromechanical devices as well as in strained nanotechnology. Both experimental and theoretical studies showed the size-dependent character of mechanical properties of SiNWs. However, the surface contaminations, local surface strains, ‘boundary conditions’, native oxide, equipment-induced errors, and the errors caused by postprocessing of results lead to softening of Young's modulus and extension of the region where the size dependency is seen by experimentalists. Application of improved potentials or advanced theoretical modeling such as inclusion of explicit treatment of temperature and quantum-mechanical effects allows to show specificity of Young's modulus to the size and shape in case of small (width <4 nm) nanowires. The ductile-brittle transitions of SiNWs at different temperatures are revealed. Some suggestions on postprocessing techniques are discussed. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Connecting ecology and conservation through experiment

An experimental infrastructure consisting of environmentally controlled and spatially linked habitat patches permits studies on terrestrial animal dispersal at an unprecedented scale for an experiment with such strict control.
Psychobiosocial versus biomedical models of treatment: semantics or substance

The biomedical model of understanding, assessing and treating sexual problems is on the ascendancy, especially in the area of male sex dysfunction. In contrast, the couple, integrative, psychobiosocial model is presented as a positive approach to conceptualize, assess, treat and address relapse prevention for male, female and couple sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction.
Radiation Coupling Of Inter-Injection-Locked Oscillators

Inter-injection-locked oscillators have been proposed as a simple and efficient alternative to conven-tional methods of driving millimeter-wave phased antenna arrays. In this concept, each radiating element is driven by its own oscillator, and phase control is achieved through inter-oscillator coupling networks. This paper examines the possibility of using free-space radiation coupling to synchronize inter-injection-locked oscillators. A discussion of the two-oscillator case leads to a simple model which predicts the behavior of the two possible modes. Predictions of this analysis are verified by an experimental study using an X-band planar Gunn oscillator, and implications for more sophisticated arrays are discussed.
Differential labeling of dopamine and sigma sites by [3H]nemonapride and [3H]raclopride in postmortem human brains

Abstract The difference between the binding of [ 3 H]nemonapride and [ 3 H]raclopride has been used to quantify dopamine D 4 receptors in postmortem schizophrenic brain studies. Recent work, however, has suggested that at least part of the differential between [ 3 H]nemonapride and [ 3 H]raclopride binding may represent σ rather than D 4 receptor sites. We applied the nemonapride-raclopride subtraction method to postmortem, non-schizophrenic human striatum to examine the variation in dopaminergic receptor binding labeled by these ligands. Variation in σ receptor binding labeled by [ 3 H]nemonapride was studied in frontal cortex, striatum and cerebellum. Specific binding was defined by sulpiride (dopamine receptor ligand), PPAP ( σ receptor ligand) and haloperidol (mixed dopaminergic/ σ agent), respectively. Haloperidol defined a combination of sites, which were approximately the sum of the dopaminergic and σ components defined by sulpiride and PPAP, respectively. Significant inter-individual variation in the amount of specific binding for dopaminergic and σ receptor sites was observed. However, no significant nor consistent observation of striatal dopamine D 4 receptors or D 4 -like binding sites was observed in the striatum even though two independent sets of tissues, with different dissections were used. The inconsistencies in some previous postmortem studies appear to be at least partially explained by the inclusion of both σ and dopaminergic components in [ 3 H]nemonapride binding and the inherent high inter-individual variability of the different components.
Tetraruthenium carbonyl complexes containing germyl and stannyl ligands from the reactions of Ru4(CO)13(μ-H)2 with HGePh3 and HSnPh3

Abstract The compounds Ru4(CO)12(GePh3)2(μ-H)4, 1 and Ru4(CO)12(SnPh3)2(μ-H)4, 2 were obtained from the reactions of Ru4(CO)13(μ-H)2 with HGePh3 and HSnPh3, respectively. Both compounds contain a nearly planar butterfly structure for the four metal atoms with two GePh3/SnPh3 ligands and four bridging hydride ligands around the periphery of the cluster. When heated, 1 and 2 were converted into the complexes Ru4(CO)12(μ4-EPh)2, 3, E = Ge, and 4, E = Sn, by cleavage of two phenyl groups from each of the GePh3 ligands. Compounds 3 and 4 contain square planar arrangements of the four ruthenium atoms with quadruply bridging germylyne and stannylyne ligands on opposite sides of the square plane. The bonding and electronic transitions of 3 were analyzed by DFT computational analyses.
In the shadow of neo-liberal racism

Que reste-t-il de la Gauche aujourd'hui ? La theorie sociale neo-liberale reste la seule force capable de defendre l'ordre social capitaliste. D'un autre cote cette theorie n'a plus vraiment d'objecteur issu de la gauche, puisqu'il apparait que le globe dans son entier se tourne politiquement vers la droite. Par contre, la theorie sociale postmoderne fournit cette pensee critique. En theorie sociale neo-liberale, il faut proteger le marche de l'intervention etatique, realisee par le biais de democraties parlementaires. A travers la critique des systemes parlementaires, les neo-libreaux font la critique de la societe civile et de ses organisations, ainsi que de la proliferation des groupes d'interets. La theorie postmoderne, qui place le probleme de l'Etat et de la societe sur le plan philosophique, ne peut combattre les arguments theoriques et pratiques de la theorie neo-liberale. Les batailles ideologiques deviennent plus complexes au fur et a mesure que les changements de doctrine s'effectuent dans les anciennes aires communistes
Cytoplasmic carboxypeptidase 5 regulates tubulin glutamylation and zebrafish cilia formation and function

Glutamylation is a functionally important tubulin posttranslational modification enriched on stable microtubules of neuronal axons, mitotic spindles, centrioles, and cilia. In vertebrates, balanced activities of tubulin glutamyl ligase and cytoplasmic carboxypeptidase deglutamylase enzymes maintain organelle- and cell type-specific tubulin glutamylation patterns. Tubulin glutamylation in cilia is regulated via restricted subcellular localization or expression of tubulin glutamyl ligases (ttlls) and nonenzymatic proteins, including the zebrafish TPR repeat protein Fleer/Ift70. Here we analyze the expression patterns of ccp deglutamylase genes during zebrafish development and the effects of ccp gene knockdown on cilia formation, morphology, and tubulin glutamylation. The deglutamylases ccp2, ccp5, and ccp6 are expressed in ciliated cells, whereas ccp1 expression is restricted to the nervous system. Only ccp5 knockdown increases cilia tubulin glutamylation, induces ciliopathy phenotypes, including axis curvature, hydrocephalus, and pronephric cysts, and disrupts multicilia motility, suggesting that Ccp5 is the principal tubulin deglutamylase that maintains functional levels of cilia tubulin glutamylation. The ability of ccp5 knockdown to restore cilia tubulin glutamylation in fleer/ift70 mutants and rescue pronephric multicilia formation in both fleer- and ift88-deficient zebrafish indicates that tubulin glutamylation is a key driver of ciliogenesis.
Damage-enhanced creep and rupture in fiber-reinforced composites

The time-dependent deformation of uniaxial composites reinforced with continuous stochastic fibers is examined using a one-dimensional model of a viscoelastic-plastic matrix reinforced with continuous viscoelastic fibers. The important effect of successive fragmentation of the stochastic fibers under increasing load is included using a nonlinear constitutive model of the fiber bundle deformation which accurately includes the stochastic failure of fibers and the influence of fiber/matrix slip around fiber breaks. Matrix yielding and/or cracking are also incorporated into the model. Detailed analyses of three special cases particularly applicable to metal and ceramic composites are presented: a viscoelastic-plastic matrix reinforced (i) with elastic fibers and subjected to a step tensile loading; (ii) with elastic fibers and stretched at a constant rate of extension; and (iii) with viscoelastic fibers and subjected to a step tensile loading. Comparisons of the predicted deformations to recent experimental data on titanium matrix composites show reasonable agreement in the creep rates, failure times and general deformation history.
Structural Approach to Injury Control

The reduction of disability and death from childhood injury can be achieved through structural modifications which make environments less permissive. The structural approach suggests preventive strategies, but the strategies must be used, must not require frequent individual action, and must not depend on the behavior of the children.
Intensive 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU), NSC #4366650 and cryopreserved autologous marrow transplantation for refractory cancer a phase I-II study

One hundred forty-three patients with refractory cancer were treated with intensive BCNU (600-2850 mg/m2) and autologous marrow transplantation to determine the maximum tolerated dose and antitumor effects of this regimen. Recovery from severe pancytopenia in less than 4 weeks after transplantation occurred in 92.8% of evaluable patients, suggesting the efficacy of the autologous marrow in limiting the prolonged myelosuppression anticipated with intensive BCNU. Serious extramedullary toxicity was encountered at BCNU 1200 mg/m2, where a 9.5% incidence of fatal interstitial pneumonitis and a 3.0% incidence of fatal hepatic necrosis was observed. Higher BCNU doses, 1500 to 2850 mg/m2, were associated with a 35.3% incidence of fatal hepatotoxicity. Fatal encephalomyelopathy was encountered in two patients given BCNU 2250 and 2850 mg/m2. One patient who received the highest cumulative dose of BCNU (3450 mg/m2 in 2 courses) died of cardiac necrosis. Other serious extramedullary toxicities were not encountered, even in the 14 patients who survived from 1 to nearly 5 years after BCNU therapy. Antitumor responses occurred in 40.0% of evaluable patients; a dose effect could not be evaluated due to patient heterogeneity. The BCNU doses associated with acceptable toxicity, 600 to 1200 mg/m2, produced a 37.5% total and an 11.3% complete response (CR) rate, including five patients with prolonged CRs of 1 to nearly 5 years. Notable among the CRs was the 25.0% CR rate in previously untreated metastatic melanoma, and the production of CRs in malignant disease in the central nervous system (CNS) including melanoma, lung cancer, adenocarcinoma of unknown primary, acute leukemia and glioblastoma multiforme. It is concluded that augmented doses of BCNU can be given when autologous marrow transplantation is used to limit myelosuppression. Lung and liver toxicity prevent the use of BCNU doses greater than 1200 mg/m2; neurotoxicity, and perhaps cardiotoxicity, are manifestations of the highest doses used in this study. The antitumor activity of BCNU 600 to 1200 mg/m2 remains to be determined for most neoplasms; these results suggest improved results in melanoma and CNS malignancy compared to conventional-dose BCNU therapy.
Changes in relative glucose metabolic rate following cortisol administration in aging veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: an FDG-PET neuroimaging study.

The authors aimed to examine central glucocorticoids effects by measuring relative glucose metabolic rate (rCMR) in the hippocampus, amygdala, and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the relationship between amygdala and ACC activity. The participants were male combat veterans with and without PTSD, 52 to 81 years old. The authors utilized randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled examinations of the rCMR response to 17.5 mg hydrocortisone (HCORT) using 2-Deoxy-2-[ 18 F]fluorodeoxy-glucose (FDG) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) neuroimaging. Group differences in hemispheric laterality of rGMR were observed following placebo administration, reflecting lower rGMR in the right hippocampus and ventral amygdala, and higher rGMR in the left ventral amygdala in the PTSD+ group compared to the PTSD- group. HCORT reduced these group differences in laterality. The net effect of HCORT was to restore a normal inverse association between the ACC and amygdala in the PTSD+ group, but disrupt this neural network in the PTSD- group. The magnitude of improvement in working memory correlated with greater hemispheric laterality in the dorsal amygdala following HCORT in both groups. The restorative effects of HCORT on metabolism and working memory provide a rationale for examining the therapeutic benefits of glucocorticoid manipulation in aging PTSD patients.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Free Autogenous Gingival Grafts: A Four Year Report*

This ongoing study was designed to determine the necessity for and effectiveness of the free autogenous graft in maintaining periodontal attachment. Four-year data are presented for 42 patients who initially had bilateral surfaces with inadequate attached keratinized gingiva including 22 patients who began with bilateral areas of recession and no attached gingiva. In both populations a free autogenous gingival graft was placed on one side and the contralateral side was treated by scaling and root planing to serve as the control. The results indicate that plaque and gingival indices significantly decreased over 4 years on both experimental (grafted) and control (nongrafted) sides. Neither side had further attachment loss but the grafted side showed "creeping" attachment with a concomitant decrease in recession. This study would indicate that facial gingival units with minimal or no attached keratinized gingiva can maintain attachment levels when inflammation is controlled.
The Variation of Critical Fusion Frequency with Brightness at Various Retinal Locations

The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the variation in critical fusion frequency with brightness for various positions in the test field.Critical frequency curves for brightnesses between −3 and +3 log millilamberts were determined for a 2° test field of green light at the fovea and at 10°, 20°, 30°, and 40° in the periphery. The procedure used allowed an image of a 2-mm circular aperture to be focused in the plane of the pupil. Tests showed that astigmatism did not influence the data obtained for the peripheral stimuli.The curve of log critical frequency against log brightness for foveal observation does not show an inflection in its rise to a maximum. The curves for peripheral observations rise to a plateau at low brightnesses, dip at medium to low brightnesses, and rise again to a maximum, thus giving the conventional “cone” curve at high brightnesses. The maximum is lower and lower for locations increasingly distant from the fovea.Data on color thresholds indicate that rods probably make their contributions to the initial part of the “cone” branch.Comparison of data for green and white central fields shows that these colors give data that superimpose for equivalent foveal stimulation. For peripheral stimulation a slight shift of the curve for green (with respect to the curve for white) seems to occur in the direction of lower brightnesses. The latter effect is interpreted to be a Purkinje shift.The Purkinje shift is greatly emphasized when orange and green peripheral fields are used. Green light, matched foveally with orange light, is more effective than orange in providing peripheral flicker.The data are interpreted to mean that rods function and interact with cones at levels of brightness that are often considered to be photopic.
Optical modes of the perovskite structure

Abstract The optical modes of the perovskite structure are characterized by the displacements of five inequivalent sublattices. The motion of these sublattices is completely determined by seven sublattice couplings. Neglecting the three smallest couplings, three of the remaining couplings can be determined from the observed optical frequencies of SrTiO 3 . These three couplings are then used to calculate the relative displacements of the sublattices. This is done as a functton of a parameter Φ which is proportional to T−T c . Two possible sets of solutions are found; one corresponds to a description of the ferroelectric mode as discussed by Slater, and the other to an alternate proposal of Last. It is found that the high frequency mode is a vibration of the oxygens against one another, while the two lower optical frequencies involve the motion of a fairly rigid oxygen framework. No suggestion is made as to which description ( S or L ) is the proper one for the ferroelectric mode, but it is shown that neither is exactly correct for T ≠ T c .
Palatal myoclonus, eight-and-a-half syndrome, and Holmes tremor in a patient from a single brainstem lesion

• Anatomic localization of neurologic exam findings is vital in forming a differential diagnosis.
Critical factors for achieving manufacturing flexibility

In this empirical study of 382 US computer and electronics companies, the relationship between manufacturing flexibility and its five infrastructural scales was examined. These infrastructural scales include workforce autonomy, communication, inter‐departmental relationships, supplier flexibility and technology. The results suggested that all infrastructural scales, except workforce autonomy, have a direct and positive effect on a firm’s manufacturing flexibility. Discussion and managerial implications of the results were also presented in this paper.
Incidence, clinical course, and prognosis of secondary monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance in patients with multiple myeloma

During the course of multiple myeloma (MM), new monoclonal proteins of an isotype distinct from the original clone, referred to as secondary monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), have been described. We report on the frequency, characteristics, and outcome of secondary MGUS. Of the 1942 patients with MM, 128 (6.6%) developed a secondary MGUS, at a median of 12 months from the diagnosis of MM. The median duration of secondary MGUS was 5.9 months. Secondary MGUS was more common in patients after stem cell transplantation than in those who had not undergone such treatment (22.7% vs 1.6%, P < .001). Overall survival was significantly superior in MM patients who developed secondary MGUS compared with the rest of the cohort (73 vs 38 months, respectively; P < .001). The time of onset and the duration of secondary MGUS, as well as failure to resolve spontaneously, had an effect on overall survival and require further study.
The influence of inhaled ketone solvent vapors on hepatic microsomal biotransformation activities.

Abstract In studies conducted to determine the effects of inhaled ketone (methyl n-butyl ketone, MBK; methyl ethyl ketone, MEK) solvent vapors on hepatic microsomal oxidative and reductive enzyme activities in rats, groups of young male Wistar rats were housed in environmental chambers and exposed to solvent vapors (MBK, 225 ppm; MEK, 750 ppm; MBK, 225 ppm/MEK, 750 ppm). Hexobarbital sleep times were significantly reduced following exposure to MBK/MEK or MEK, but MBK exposure did not alter sleep time measurements. Aniline hydroxylase, aminopyrine demethylase, Neoprontosil reductase, and p-nitrobenzoate reductase activities were significantly enhanced two- to threefold over control values.
Early effects of androgens on the biosynthesis of protein and RNA by the postmitochondrial fraction of the mouse kidney.

Abstract Castration did not produce a decrease in the rate of incorporation of amino acids in vitro by the cytoplasmic fraction of the adult mouse kidney until after two to four days. Androgens stimulated the earliest detectable increase in the rate of incorporation of the amino acids after 24 hours. Attempts to detect an earlier effect by frequent repeated injections; different doses of testosterone, testosterone propionate and androstane-Jα, 17β-diol; different routes of administration - subcutaneous and intraperitioneal; the use of oil and aqueous solutions and subcutaneously implanted pellets of the androgens; use of young and adult mice, and androgen administration immediately after castration and after longer periods were unsuccessful. The minimum effective dose for the earliest response was 25 μg of testosterone propionate. A proportional response with dose of testosterone propionate was obtained. The concentration of RNA changed in parallel with the changes in amino acid incorporation as did the weight of the kidney and other target tissues—seminal vesicles, prostate and thymus.
The obesity paradox in non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes: Results from the Can Rapid risk stratification of Unstable angina patients Suppress ADverse outcomes with Early implementation of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines Quality Improvement Initiative

Background Although obesity is a known risk factor for coronary artery disease, its impact on the presentation, treatment, and outcome of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has not been well studied. Methods Using data from the CRUSADE Initiative, we compared inhospital treatments and clinical outcomes of 80845 patients with high-risk non–ST-segment elevation (NSTE) ACS (positive cardiac markers and/or ischemic ST-segment changes) to determine whether there was an association with body mass index (BMI [kg/m 2 ]). Patient weights were categorized according to World Health Organization classifications: Underweight (BMI Results Most (70.5%) of the CRUSADE patients were classified as overweight or obese; these patients were younger and more likely to present with comorbid conditions, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Medications given during the first 24 hours and invasive cardiac procedures recommended by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines for NSTE ACS were more commonly used in these patients. The incidence of death and death and reinfarction, adjusted for covariates, were generally lower in overweight and obese patients, compared with normal-weight patients, but higher in underweight and extremely obese patients. Conclusions Most patients with NSTE ACS are overweight or obese. These patients receive more aggressive treatment, and, except for the extremely obese, have less adverse outcomes compared with underweight and normal-weight patients. Although obesity appears to be a risk factor for developing ACS at a younger age, it also appears to be associated with more aggressive ACS management and, ultimately, improved outcomes.
The Effects of Turnover on Perceived Job Quality Does the Grass Look Greener

Despite extensive turnover research, there is little information on whether people's perceived job quality actually improves as a function of turnover. Using data from people who stayed with the job, who changed jobs, or who changed employers, this study examined the relative validity of three theoretical frameworks regarding the impact of turnover on perceived job quality. The results, although not overwhelming, provided tentative support for dispositional arguments; people tended to retain similar attitudes regardless of actual job quality.
Tiagabine increases cocaine-free urines in cocaine-dependent methadone-treated patients: results of a randomized pilot study.

Aims We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the GABAergic agent tiagabine in reducing cocaine use among methadone-treated patients. Design Ten-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Setting Opiate Treatment Research Program, Veteran's Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven, Connecticut, USA. Participants The participants were 45 cocaine-dependent methadone-treated patients who were predominately Caucasian (75.6%), male (77.8%) and never married (53%) with an average age of 38 years (SD = 6.5). Interventions Comparison groups received tiagabine 12 mg/day (n = 15), tiagabine 24 mg/day (n = 15) or placebo (n = 15). Measures Baseline assessments included the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, the Addiction Severity Index, a urine drug test, self-reported use and opiate withdrawal scales. Urine drug tests were performed thrice weekly. Findings Treatment retention was over 80% for all treatment groups. The sample mean (± SE) of cocaine-free urines for the first week after study entry and before tiagabine was started was 1.16 (0.19) urines/week. During weeks 9 and 10 cocaine-free urines increased significantly from baseline by 33% with high-dose tiagabine (24 mg/day), by 14% with low-dose tiagabine (12 mg/day) and decreased by 10% with placebo (hierarchical linear model, Z= 2.03; P < 0.05). Self-reported cocaine use also decreased significantly more with active medications than with placebo. Conclusions Tiagabine at 24 mg/day was well tolerated among these methadone-treated patients with only one reporting headache. Tiagabine appears to be a promising GABAergic medication that moderately improves cocaine-free urines.
Polarization induced in a solid by the passage of fast charged particles

A theoretical description is given of the polarization charge-density distribution induced in a solid by the passage of a fast charged particle. The stopping power of the solid (including the effects of close collisions) is well accounted for by the braking effect of the polarization charges. Calculations based on this model for the polarization give good agreement with the results of recent experiments on the dissociation of fast molecular ions in foils. (AIP)
Rhizolith evidence in support of a late Holocene sea-level highstand at least 0.5 m higher than present at Key Biscayne, Florida

R. Fairbridge and F. Shepard proposed different sea-level curves for the late Holocene. South Florida, as a tectonically stable platform, provides a key locale from which late Quaternary sea-level measurements have been attempted. Previous studies supporting Holocene sea-level curves have focused on mangrove peat deposits, barrier ridges, and archaeological sites. However, in situ biological indicators provide the best evidence in support of varying sea-level positions during the late Holocene. The northeastern side of Key Biscayne, Florida, has two areas of rock reef where rhizoliths (i.e., fossilized root casts) are exposed within the intertidal zone. They have previously been interpreted as the fossilized roots of a former black mangrove ( Avicennia germinans ) forest. However, the morphology, size, orientation, and areal extent of the rhizoliths is best understood if they are interpreted as the former root casts of turtle grass ( Thalassia testudinum ). This interpretation would constitute in situ biological evidence of a late Holocene sea-level position at least 0.5 m higher than at present. Previously published 14C dating of the calcareous paste inside the rhizoliths suggests that they formed 1–2 k.y. before present. This corresponds to a higher than present sea-level highstand supported by independent evidence from other areas in south Florida.
Unsteady Flow Separation and Attachment Induced by Pitching Airfoils

Abstract : The dynamics of induced, separated vortices generated from sinusoidal airfoil oscillations were examined across a range of unsteady flow parameters. Leading edge vortical initiation, development, and interaction with trailing edge vorticity were summarized via stroboscopic flow visualization and hotwire anemometry. Results indicate the sensitivity of vortical development at both leading and trailing edges to reduced frequency parameter and magnitude of oscillation angle. Certain optimal parametric conditions resulted in dramatic interactions of leading and trailing edge vorticity. At diminished oscillation angles, separated flow attachment was evident in the absence of the large induced vortical structures characteristic of large oscillation amplitudes. (sdw)
The aftermath of child sexual abuse of African American and white American women: The victim's experience

Several aspects of the victim's personal experience in the aftermath of child sexual abuse are described. Subject recruitment involved a multi-stage stratified probability sample of 126 African American and 122 White women, ages 18 to 36 years in Los Angeles County, matched on education, marital status, and the presence of children. Few ethnic differences were related to the initial response and short-term effects of the victim's experiences. Lasting effects of sexual abuse included sexual problems for women of both ethnic groups, but avoidance of men resembling the perpetrator was identified among African American women. Ethnicity may be a contributing factor to other adjustment related problems that African American women encounter in addition to their child sexual victimization. The implications of these findings and issues in the assessment of the aftermath are discussed.
Movement Matters: The Contributions of Esther Thelen

Traditional theories of intelligence and its development concentrated on symbolic reasoning, paying little attention to the body and to the ways intelligence affects and is affected by the physical world. Esther Thelen (1941–2004) was a maverick who argued against that traditional view for the idea that intelligence is both made in and realized through physical actions on the world. This once singular position is now known as the embodiment hypothesis and has become a major organizing theme in contemporary cognitive science, neuroscience, and development (see, for example, Smith and Gasser
Test of T invariance in neutron optics

This paper describes a possible new effect in the propagation of polarized neutrons through a polarized medium. The neutron polarization may precess about, and towards, an axis perpendicular to the plane containing the beam direction and the direction of spin polarization of the medium. Observation of either effect would provide unambiguous evidence of $T$ noninvariance, which has yet to be demonstrated, and indicate the presence of $T$-noninvariant interactions outside the neutral-kaon system.
Parasites of Walleyes, Stizostedion vitreum, from Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron, and the Other Great Lakes

Abstract A total of 79 walleyes, Stizostedion vitreum (Percidae), was collected from inner and outer Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron, in September 1993 and 1994 and examined for parasites. Nine parasite species (one Monogenea, two Digenea, two Cestoda, one Nematoda, one Copepoda, one Protozoa, one virus) infected walleyes from the bay. The copepod Ergasilus luciopercarum had the highest prevalence and mean intensity followed by the cestode Bothriocephalus cuspidatus . Of the helminth species found, only B. cuspidatus and the monogenean Urocleidus aculeatus were gravid. Walleye parasite faunas were similar between areas. Walleyes from the Great Lakes have had 46 parasites species recorded. Walleye is a definitive host for many parasite species but does not play an important role as an intermediate and transport host for parasites in the Great Lakes.
Processing of Composite Gun Tubes with GLEEM and Hammer Forging

Refractory metal liners have been shown to extend the service life of gun tubes a considerable amount. The major technical hurdle to date has been keeping the liners in place during firing. To address this problem, composite gun tubes made of steel and pure niobium have been fabricated through a combination of the GLEEM (gun liner emplacement with an elastomeric material) and the hammer forging. The three barrels made by this approach were test fired in single-shot and burst-fire mode. One of the barrels whose liner had been cold-sprayed with tungsten carbide particles before the GLEEM process showed no liner movement in any of the tests. The success of this new liner processing technology to prevent liner movement offers the potential for further investigations of refractory metals that are more suitable as liner materials.
Analysis of landscape sources and sinks: the effect of spatial pattern on avian demography

Abstract To develop theoretical insights into the relationship between spatial pattern and demography, we coupled a spatially structured demographic model with neutral landscape models to investigate how landscape structure affected population persistence and the source–sink potential of landscapes for a generalized, territorial migratory songbird. Four species-types, with different sensitivities to habitat area and edge effects, were simulated on replicated landscapes across a range of habitat abundance (1–90%) and fragmentation or spatial contagion (random, fractal with minimal contagion, and fractal with maximum contagion). For each species-type in each landscape, the expected number of female offspring produced per female (fecundity, b) was modeled as an explicit function of habitat area and spatial structure (patch edge-to-area ratio). Fecundity estimates (b) were combined with survivorship in a life-table analysis to estimate the net lifetime reproductive output (R0) for the population of each landscape. Landscapes for which R0 1. As expected, reproductive output (R0) was generally highest on fractal landscapes with maximum clumping (minimum fragmentation) and lowest on random landscapes (maximum fragmentation), especially for species with high edge sensitivity. For species with low edge sensitivity, population persistence was unlikely when the landscape had
Beta-subunits are important modulators of the acute response to alcohol in human BK channels.

Background The BK channel (a Ca2+-activated potassium ion channel encoded by the slo gene) has been defined as a target of alcohol action in a number of preparations, possibly serving as primary mediator of intoxication in the Caenorhabditis elegans model system. However, we know little of the actions of alcohol on human BK, nor the consequences of BK subunit composition on alcohol action. Methods Here, we use human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells to express various subunit combinations (hslo alpha+beta1 or beta4) of human BK, and examine the acute actions of alcohol on this channel using single channel recording techniques. Results The human channel is potentiated by alcohol, although the presence of the beta1, and to a lesser extent, beta4-subunit, significantly reduced acute ethanol potentiation. Potentiation increased with concentration up to an asymptote, at which point potentiation decreased. The concentration of the asymptote differed according to subunit composition. The mechanism of potentiation was also subunit-dependent, with 25 mM ethanol affecting the mean open time of hSlo+beta4 channels, whereas channel open time was unaffected by the presence of beta1. The possibility that the known effect of the beta-subunit on calcium sensitivity accounts for its modulation of acute alcohol action is discussed. Conclusion Our data reinforce the idea that, as in other systems, BK may play a major role in alcohol's actions in humans, and highlight the potential role of channel subunit composition in the response to alcohol.
WLC20-5: Optimal Radio Allocation for Multi-radio Cognitive Wireless Networks

We consider the radio allocation problem for multi-radio multi-channel cognitive wireless networks, i.e., the optimal placement of radios within the network to maximize the network utility function. This problem is formulated as a large-scale combinatorial optimization problem. We derive the necessary conditions that the optimal solution should satisfy, and then develop a sequential optimization scheme to solve this problem. Simulation studies are carried out to assess the performance of the proposed radio allocation framework. It is seen that the proposed approach can significantly enhance the overall network performance.
Enhanced Methods For Automatic Handling Of Optical Disks Housed In Cartridges

An optical disk recording and playback system was developed for mass data storage which utilizes 14 inch diametyy disks permanently housed in cartridges. Sixty-eight disks with a storage capacity of 10 user bits per side per disk are located in storage and may be accessed within six seconds or less. To access a disk, a cartridge is cycled from storage, through a transport position and then onto a load station. From this position, the disk is loaded onto a turntable where digital data may be accessed at a ratelof 100 Mb/s. The enhanced approach utilizes the previously reported upon jukebox concept , however, with an optimized system approach. All optical elements, as well as the translation stage, which dynamically positions the focusing head, are located above the optical table for ease of accessibility and maintainability. The disk itself is suspended and sealed in a .32 inch thick cartridge. The profile of the cartridge is ideally suited for mass storage applications, where volume growth of stored cartridges is only limited by practical considerations. The active area of the disk is completely enclosed, except during data access times, when the dust seals are removed from actual disk contact. The spindle that rotates the disk is supported on porous graphite air bearings while the disk itself is held in place via vacuum. The optical table, which supports all of the recorder's critical static and dynamic components, was designed to be isolated from external perturbations, as well as from on-table generated and then transmitted vibrations. The paper describes mechanism design, dynamic test results obtained in the handling of optical disks i cartridges, as well as the growth potential to a double-sided disk and write/read rates significantly beyond 100 Mb/s.
Transendothelial transport (transcytosis) of iron-transferrin complex in the rat liver

To determine the transport pathway of iron-transferrin complex (Fe-TF) into the hepatocyte, we labeled Fe-TF with colloidal gold and perfused rat liver through the portal vein with this probe under different conditions. The tissue was then studied by transmission electron microscopy. At a cold temperature (approximately 4 degrees C), the probe bound to the luminal surface of sinusoidal endothelium without internalization. The binding was limited to the endothelium and there was no binding to Kupffer cells or hepatocytes. The binding was inhibitable in the presence of excess soluble Fe-TF, indicating the specificity of the bindings. At 37 degrees C the probe was internalized via a system of coated pits and vesicles. Morphometric analyses of the temporal sequence of events suggested that the probe was transported, in part, across the endothelium via a system of tubules and vesicles and externalized on the abluminal side via a system of coated pits. The probe was then taken up by hepatocytes. Only minimal uptake was noted when gold-labeled bovine serum albumin was used either at the low temperature or at 37 degrees C. The findings suggest that the liver uptake of Fe-TF complex by hepatocytes is a transendothelial phenomenon (transcytosis).
Perturbative treatments of photo-stimulated desorption and dissociation on metal surfaces induced by single and multiple electronic transitions

Abstract Photo-stimulated desorption and dissociation of small molecules adsorbed on metals are investigated in both the DIET and DIMET limits. A theoretical model is developed based on a perturbative treatment of substrate-mediated transitions. In this model, the system evolves according to the time-dependent Schrodinger equation except for transitions between the neutral and ionic states, which are induced by a series of delta pulses delayed by a pre-specified time (τ). Two examples are studied: the photo-stimulated substrate-mediated desorption of nitric oxide and the dissociative electron attachment of methyl bromide. Translational energy distributions and product yields in both the DIET and DIMET limits are calculated and compared. The influence of the time delay between the excitation and deexcitation is explored.
Tribological Performance of Polymer-Based Coatings for Oil-Less Piston-Type Compressor Applications

Due to thermodynamically adverse effects of liquid-type lubricants on the operation of air conditioning and refrigeration compressors, oil-less compressors are of current research interest. Under such conditions, advanced tribologically coatings are needed for critical interacting surfaces to ensure reliable operation under oil-less conditions. In this paper, seven commercially available polymeric coatings (PTFE-, PEEK-, resin- and fluorocarbon-based coatings) coated on gray cast iron were tribologically evaluated through unlubricated oscillatory experiments simulating a realistic wrist pin interface in a piston-type compressor. The experiments were performed in the presence of the environmentally friendly (as far as minimal global warming potential is concerned) carbon dioxide refrigerant, simulating oil-less piston-type compressors. It was found that polymer-based coatings exhibited excellent tribological performance, and in general PTFE-based coatings performed better than PEEK-based coatings. Also, their friction and wear behavior is affected by additives, which polymeric coatings were blended with. Specifically, PTFE coatings blended with pyrrolidone showed relatively low friction coefficient, and coatings blended with MoS2 had higher wear resistance.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Post stroke depression: epidemiology, pathophysiology, and biological treatment

Depression is a common occurrence after stroke and is associated with excess disability, cognitive impairment, and mortality. The authors undertook a systematic review of the English language literature to review several aspects of this illness, including the prevalence of this disorder, the debate on its etiology, and the current understanding of the biological treatment of poststroke depression. Methodological problems encountered in the study of poststroke depression are highlighted throughout the manuscript. The authors conclude that the available evidence supports poststroke depression as being multifactorial in origin and consistent with the biopsychosocial model of mental illness.
Global left ventricular remodeling, extent of inferior wall infarct, and mitral valve geometry are important predictors of mitral regurgitation severity than total infarct size in advanced ischemic cardiomyopathy

Background Mitral regurgitation (MR) is common in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) and independently associated with worse mortality. We sought to determine the impact of adverse LV remodeling, total myocardial infarct (MI) size, location and extent of regional MI, and mitral valve geometry on the severity of mitral regurgitation. Methods A total of 494 patients with LVEF ≤ 40% and ≥ 70% stenosis in ≥ 1 epicardial coronary artery and prior history of CABG or PCI were screened. Patients with transthoracic echocardiogram and CMR studies within 7 days were selected. Forty-two patients (9%) were excluded either due to prior mitral valve surgery, unavailable studies or organic mitral valve disease. Other 42 patients were excluded because of no mitral regurgitation noted on their study. Mitral regurgitation was assessed using semi-quantitative vena contracta method from a parasternal long axis zoomed view obtained of the mitral valve. LV volumes and EF were calculated from cine short axis CMR images. Mitral valve geometry was measured on end-systolic 2, 3, and 4 chamber cine views. LV scar was measured 10-15 minutes after gadolinium injection and using phase-sensitive inversion recovery sequence. Results The mean age of the cohort (n = 410) was 63 ± 11 years and males represented 75%. LVEF, LV end-systolic volume index, mean total infarct size, MV annulus index, MV tenting area index, and MV displacement index were: 23 ± 0.5%, 115 ± 2 ml/m2, 31 ± 17%, 1.7 ± 0.5 cm2/m2, 0.88 ± 0.48 cm2/m2, respectively. Mean inferior, lateral, anterior infarct size were: 27 ± 21%, 25 ± 20%, 37 ± 23%. MR was classified as: mild (63%), moderate (22%) or severe (15%). The mean vena contracta was 0.33 ± 0.24 cm. Multiple variable linear regression (R2 = 0.23) revealed that male gender, worsening GFR, increase extent of inferior LV scar, LV ESVi and MV tenting area index were independent predictors of MR severity, whereas overall scar extent, anterior or lateral location were not. (Figure 1). Conclusions Global LV remodeling, regional inferior myocardial scarring, and mitral valve geometry are more important predictors of worsening MR than total infarct size in patients with advanced ischemic cardiomyopathy. Funding None.
Basic mechanical properties of retina in simple elongation.

Etude de proprietes mecaniques de la retine telles que: les conditions physiologiques de la retine, son niveau de sensibilite d'etirement et la relation contrainte-deformation
The oral contraceptive and variegate porphyria.

The rare variegate form of porphyria (inherited as a Mendelian dominant character) which was manifested after 1 week of oral contraceptive treatment with Minovlar in a previously asymptomatic 20-year old woman is reported. Symptoms persisting from July-September 1970 included abdominal pain low backache obstinate constipation vomiting anorexia and weight loss; 7 more days of contraceptive treatment were followed by redness and swelling of face after exposure to sunlight blisters and erosions on the hands and intense itching on both face and hands. In September pigmentation of face neck dorsa of hands and palmar creases was observed with more blisters and scarring. Laboratory investigations showed initial jaundice and transient biochemical findings of liver derangement; urinary and faecal porphyrin values were abnormally high. It is thought that the oestrogenic component of the oral contraceptive caused the patients change from latent to symptomatic variegate porphyria. After the case report current literature of variegate and acute intermittent porphyria is discussed with mention of porphyria cutanea tarda. X-porphyrins present in abnormally high amounts in individuals with variegate porphyria can help distinguish such cases. Excessive activity of hepatic delta-aminolaevulic acid synthetase which determines rate of porphyrin synthesis has been found with variegate porphyria. Acute non-cutaneous symptoms of variegate porphyria must be due to a disturbance of cellular or subcellular metabolism as yet undetermined; mechanism of skin damage is unknown. Oral contraceptives along with several other drugs including sulphonamides and barbiturates should be avoided in cases of variegate porphyria to prevent drug-induced exacerbation.
Effect of copper intake on balance, absorption, and status indices of copper in men

Indices of Cu status were measured in 8 men fed diets low in Cu (0.89±0.10 mg/day), for periods ranging from 105 to 120 days. One man showed Cu depletion signs of significantly decreased plasma Cu, 8.7 μmole/L, at the end of depletion, vs 12.1 μmole/L during equilibration and 11.0 μmole/L at the end of repletion, and decreased RBS superoxide dismutase (SOD), 705 U/g Hgb at the end of depletion vs 3619 U/g Hgb at the end of repletion. Two others exhibited similar trends. Copper absorption by the men was not affected by the amount of dietary Cu. However, endogenous excretion of Cu during depletion was 50% of that during the control period (1.00±0.20 vs 0.50±0.17 mg Cu/d, p<0.0002) for control and depletion periods, respectively. Intakes of below 0.9 mg/d apparently result in signs of Cu depletion in healthy adults. Sex differences need to be considered when determining the effect of Cu depletion on various indices of Cu status.