cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
EVOLUTION OF PUFFERFISH INFLATION BEHAVIOR.

The evolution of the extraordinary inflation mechanism of pufferfishes was studied in the light of an independently derived phylogenetic hypothesis of tetraodontiform fishes. Inflation behavior is found in all members of the puffer sister taxa Tetraodontidae and Diodontidae. However, most other tetraodontiform fishes exhibit two functionally similar behaviors. All taxa exhibit a "coughing" behavior and, with the exception of the sister-group to all other tetraodontiforms, represented by the Triacanthidae, all lineages "blow" strong jets of water out of their mouth to excavate prey. Functional specializations associated with the three behaviors were identified from anatomical analyses and electromyographic recordings of muscle activity in representatives of the major lineages of the order. The phylogenetic distribution of the three buccal compression behaviors and their functional bases indicates the following: (1) the evolution of inflation behavior involved major structural modifications of the head that function in a novel mechanism that links depression of the floor of the mouth to posterior expansion of the buccal cavity; (2) the contraction patterns of four key head muscles used in the three behaviors are generally similar both across behaviors and taxa; (3) however, the distribution of the two significant modifications of muscle activity are consistent with the hypothesis that the three behaviors represent a transformation series from coughing to water blowing to inflation. The motor pattern for water blowing is a slightly modified version of that seen in coughing, and the inflation motor pattern retains the blowing specialization and adds a single additional modification. The convergent evolution of a poorly developed inflation behavior in at least one genus of filefish provides evidence that tetraodontiform fishes are predisposed to the evolution of this unusual defensive behavior. The presence of a well developed water-blowing behavior in most tetraodontiform lineages may represent an intermediate functional specialization that increased the probability of the evolution of inflation.
Mapping multiple features in the population response of visual cortex.

Stimulus features such as edge orientation, motion direction and spatial frequency are thought to be encoded in the primary visual cortex by overlapping feature maps arranged so that the location of neurons activated by a particular combination of stimulus features can be predicted from the intersections of these maps1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8. This view is based on the use of grating stimuli, which limit the range of stimulus combinations that can be examined. We used optical imaging of intrinsic signals9 in ferrets to assess patterns of population activity evoked by the motion of a texture (a field of iso-oriented bars). Here we show that the same neural population can be activated by multiple combinations of orientation, length, motion axis and speed. Rather than reflecting the intersection of multiple maps, our results indicate that population activity in primary visual cortex is better described as a single map of spatiotemporal energy.
Higher sensitivity to Patupilone versus Paclitaxel chemotherapy in primary uterine serous papillary carcinoma cell lines with high versus low HER-2/neu expression in vitro

Abstract Objective To compare the in vitro sensitivity/resistance to patupilone versus paclitaxel in uterine serous papillary carcinoma (USPC) with high versus low HER-2/neu expression. Methods Six primary USPC cell lines, half of which overexpress HER-2/neu at a 3+ level, were evaluated for growth rate and tested for their in vitro sensitivity/resistance to patupilone versus paclitaxel by MTS assays. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to identify potential mechanisms underlying the differential sensitivity/resistance to patupilone versus paclitaxel in primary USPC cell lines. Results Cell lines overexpressing HER-2/neu showed higher proliferation when compared to low HER-2/neu-expressing cell lines. Compared to low-expressing cell lines, high HER-2/neu expressors were significantly more sensitive to patupilone than to paclitaxel ( P P Conclusions USPC overexpressing HER-2/neu display greater in vitro sensitivity to patupilone and higher levels of the patupilone molecular target TUBB3 when compared to low HER-2/neu expressors. Due to the adverse prognosis associated with HER-2/neu overexpression in USPC patients, patupilone may represent a promising novel drug to combine to platinum compounds in this subset of aggressive endometrial tumors.
Chemically formed HAp-Ca poly(vinyl phosphonate) composites.

Abstract The formation of biocompatible organic–inorganic composites by reactions between tetracalcium phosphate (Ca 4 (PO 4 ) 2 O, TetCP) and the biomedical polymer poly(vinyl phosphonic acid) (PVPA) is described. Composites were prepared by hot pressing mixtures of these powders at 80 kpsi and 300°C for 30 min. Composite formation was investigated depending on the proportions of reactants and the processing route used. Two inorganic phases were produced as a result of the acid–base reaction between TetCP and PVPA: hydroxyapatite (Ca 10 (PO 4 ) 6 (OH) 2 , HAp) and anhydrous dicalcium phosphate (CaHPO 4 , DCPA). The later phase preferentially formed at lower TetCP/PVPA ratios while the amount of HAp increased with increasing TetCP/PVPA ratio. The reactions appear to start with the softening of the polymer when heated to T > T g . The flowing polymer surrounds the TetCP grains permitting the TetCP to initially form DCPA crystallites in a matrix of the Ca salt of the polymer. When H 2 O is added prior to pressing, the DCPA produced reacts with the remaining TetCP forming HAp.
Fluphenazine-induced decline in striatal acetylcholine content is not abolished by exogenous choline.

Abstract Experiments were conducted in rats, to examine the extent to which the significant decline in striatal acetylcholine content induced by fluphenazine (0.5 mg/kg, s.c.) can be reversed by systemic administration of exogenous choline. Choline chloride (200 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered either at the same time as fluphenazine (or saline, in the case of controls); 40 min later; 30min prior to administration of fluphenazine or saline; and on three consecutive 20-min intervals in the same animal, at 0, 20, and 40min following fluphenazine or saline treatment. Striatal choline and acetylcholine levels were subsequently analyzed by gas chromatography. In all cases choline administration failed either to elevate significantly striatal acetylcholine levels in the control animals, or to block the fluphenazine-induced fall in acetylcholine levels. These data suggest that, under the basal or drug-treated conditions investigated in these studies, the availability of choline from the periphery may not be rate-limiting for striatal acetylcholine synthesis.
The Potential Impact of Measuring Healthcare Quality on Pharmaceutical-Related Costs and Outcomes

Quality measurement has achieved a powerful momentum across the spectrum of healthcare, driven primarily by the search for strategies to contain rapidly rising healthcare costs without sacrificing quality of care. Because pharmaceutical care is involved in almost all elements of healthcare, it is subject to the general impact of quality measurement on the healthcare system as well as quality measurements of pharmaceutical care. The assumption that measuring quality improves the processes and outcomes of care lies behind the drive for quality measurement, but this assumption remains largely untested. Whether the assumption is true depends upon the attributes of measures (importance, perspective, reliability, validity and responsiveness), the quality of the data used, and how and by whom the measures are collected, interpreted and used. Focusing attention on aspects of care that get measured may ‘crowd out’ attention on equally important, but unmeasured elements and may not contribute to allocative efficiency. Successfully turning quality measurement into quality improvement in pharmaceutical care will require two essential elements: continued research to develop, refine and update measures of quality, and education in how to use them.
Optimized distribution protection using binary programming

The fundamental goal of an electric utility is to serve its customers with a reliable and low cost power supply. This goal has led to a number of standard protection engineering practices that ensure adequate service; however, with deregulation of the utility industry and increased competitive pressures, there is a desire to further improve service reliability and reduce costs. In this vein, this work proposes a binary programming optimization to identify type and location of the protective devices on a distribution feeder. The proposed algorithm uses engineering heuristics to minimize computational time. Numerical examples highlight the proposed approach.
DNA strand exchange mediated by a RAD51-ssDNA nucleoprotein filament with polarity opposite to that of RecA

Yeast RAD51 gene functions in genetic recombination and DNA double-strand break repair. In vitro, in the presence of ATP and replication protein A, RAD51 protein pairs single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) with homologous double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and catalyzes strand exchange between the synapsed DNA partners. Electron microscopic analyses show that RAD51 forms helical filaments on both ssDNA and dsDNA, in which the DNA is highly extended. However, results presented here indicate that only the RAD51-ssDNA nucleoprotein filament is functionally relevant. Strand exchange is arrested when heterology is encountered in the duplex partner, and analysis of the configuration of the terminal joint thus formed reveals that pairing and strand exchange initiate at the 5' end of the complementary strand in the linear duplex, a reaction polarity opposite to that of the bacterial prototype RecA.
Synthesis and Characterization of Azadipyrromethene-alt-p-Phenylene Ethynylene Conjugated Polymers and Their Chelates

Several n-type conjugated polymers incorporating azadipyromethene (aza-DIPY) dyes in the main chain were synthesized by Sonogashira coupling of bisiodo(tetraphenylazadipyrromethene)s with 1,4-bis((2-ethylhexyl)oxy)-2,5-diethynylbenzene. Using branched alkoxy groups on the diethynylbenzene comonomer resulted in polymers with higher molecular weight and higher solubility in organic solvents than our previous report with dodecylalkoxy groups. The physical properties of these polymers were further tuned by coordination of the aza-DIPY moiety with BF2, Cu(I)PEt3, or Ag(I)PEt3 via a postpolymerization reaction. Coordination with the electron-deficient BF2 resulted in improved solubility in organic solvents, higher electron affinity (∼4.5 eV), lower LUMO energy levels (<−5.6 eV), and lower optical bandgaps (<1.34 eV) than the unchelated precursor. Coordination with the electron-rich Cu(I) and Ag(I) metals resulted in higher optical bandgaps (1.5 eV) and higher HOMO (−5.3 eV) and LUMO (−4.0 eV) energy levels. X-r...
Conflict Resolution or "Convict Revolution"?: The Problematics of Critical Pedagogy in the Classroom

In this article, I link critical pedagogical theory to practice through teaching-research activities in one southern inner-city elementary classroom. Critical pedagogy is explicated and critiqued, as are current literacy theory and practice, especially for African American students. A description of critical pedagogical activities used in the classroom is given, followed by a critique of such practices. In particular, the author examines the issues of power, privilege, social relations, and student resistance. The article concludes with recommendations for teaching and using critical pedagogy in the schools, as well as in the college classroom. The bridging of literacy, popular culture, and critical pedagogy is especially recommended.
Methylazoxymethanol treatment of fetal rats results in abnormally dense noradrenergic innervation of neocortex

A single injection of methylazoxymethanol in pregnant rats at 15 days of gestation results in severe cortical atrophy in the offspring. In the adult offspring, the neurochemical markers for the cortical gamma-aminobutyric acid-containing neurons are severely reduced, whereas the noradrenergic markers are minimally altered. Immunohistofluorescence microscopy demonstrates a marked increase in the density of noradrenergic axons which have an abnormal pattern of distribution in the atrophic cortex. The results suggest that the central noradrenergic neurons determine the number of axons to be formed early in brain development, but local factors in the terminal field regulate the ultimate distribution of the noradrenergic axons.
Does a detailed model of the electricity grid matter? Estimating the impacts of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative

Abstract The consequences of environmental and energy policies in the U.S. can be severely constrained by physical limits of the electric power grid. Flows do not follow the shortest path but are distributed over all lines in accordance with the laws of physics, so grid operators must select which generation units to operate at each moment, not only to minimize production costs, but also to prevent the system from collapsing because of line overloads. Because of the complexity of power grid operation, computing limitations have until very recently made it impossible to solve a policy analysis or planning model that combines realistic modeling of flows with a detailed transmission system model and the prediction of generator investment and retirement. We construct and solve a model of the eastern US and Canada that combines these characteristics. Then, because a smaller model would be usable for some additional purposes, we explore the effects of transmission model simplification on the accuracy of simulation results. To evaluate the amount of detail necessary, we simulate the short- and long-term effects of imposing a price on the carbon dioxide emissions from the power plants in nine northeastern US states, as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative does. We consider three grid models that simplify the actual 62,000-node system to varying degrees. Our 5000-node model matches the 62,000-node model very closely. We use it as the basis for evaluating the more simplified models: a 300-node model and a model with just one node, i.e. no transmission constraints. With each of the three models, we predict the carbon dioxide emission impacts, electricity price impacts, and generator entry and exit impacts of the emission price, over the next 20 years. We find that most of the impact predictions produced by the 300- and one-node models differ from those of the 5000-node model by more than 20%, and some by much more. Fortunately, the 5000-node model, and others with its combination of transmission detail, realistic flows, entry prediction, and retirement prediction can be used for many useful purposes.
Automatic Derivation of Name Access Points in Cataloging.

This article reports the results of research designed to explore the feasibility of automatically deriving name access points from machine-readable title pages of English language monographs. Two questions were asked: (1) To what degree is it possible to specify formal criteria for extracting from the title pages of monographs in machine-readable form the names of those persons and corporate bodies who have contributed significantly to the creation of the monographs in question? and (2) Are title page data adequate for automatically generating name access points from English language monographs in machine-readable form? Results show that approximately 88% of the access points selected by the Library of Congress or the National Library of Medicine could be automatically derived from title page data. These results have implications for the design of bibliographic standards and online catalogs. © 1990 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Credibility using semiparametric models and a loss function with a constancy penalty

Abstract In credibility ratemaking, one seeks to estimate the conditional mean of a given risk. The most accurate estimator (as measured by squared error loss) is the predictive mean. To calculate the predictive mean one needs the conditional distribution of losses given the parameter of interest (often the conditional mean) and the prior distribution of the parameter of interest. Young (1997. ASTIN Bulletin 27, 273–285) uses kernel density estimation to estimate the prior distribution of the conditional mean. She illustrates her method with simulated data from a mixture of a lognormal conditional over a lognormal prior and finds that the estimated predictive mean is more accurate than the linear Buhlmann credibility estimator. However, generally, in her example, the estimated predictive mean was more accurate only up to the 95th percentile of the marginal distribution of claims. Beyond that point, the credibility estimator occasionally diverged widely from the true predictive mean. To reduce this divergence, we propose using the loss function of Young and De Vylder (2000. North American Actuarial Journal, 4(1), 107–113). Their loss function is a linear combination of a squared-error term and a term that encourages the estimator to be close to constant, especially in the tails of the distribution of claims, where Young (1997) noted the difficulty with her semiparametric approach. We show that by using this loss function, the problem of upward divergence noted in Young (1997) is reduced. We also provide a simple routine for minimizing the loss function, based on the discussion of De Vylder in Young (1998a . North American Actuarial Journal 2, 101–117).
A preliminary look at error avoidance in digital logic via feedback equalization

This note describes preliminary efforts to incorporate feedback into error avoidance schemes for combinatorial efforts. Taking a 4-bit Kogge-Stone adder as a case study, we develop a feedback equalization scheme that cuts down on errors without increasing energy consumption.
The rise of regulation in the NHS.

The current British government has created five national agencies to regulate the NHS. These new arrivals are simply additions to an already crowded regulatory landscape. But, if politicians can be persuaded to let go, the new regulators of the NHS could provide a genuinely new approach to improving performance and management During the past four years the British government has created five new national agencies to regulate the NHS in England (box).1 2 3 4 The government has moved away from using markets, competition, and contracting to manage performance in the NHS. But it has been unwilling to rely on traditional bureaucratic structures to exert control, and has turned increasingly to regulation. In this article, I describe how and why organisational regulation in the NHS in England has grown in recent years. I examine how regulation was used in the NHS in the past and describe the characteristics of the new regulatory agencies. Finally, I use information from the wider literature on regulation to examine the regulatory model adopted by these new agencies and to explore what they might learn from regulation in other settings. #### Summary points Over the past 20 years, regulation has increased in Britain's private and public sectors In the past four years the British government has created five new national agencies to regulate the NHS The new agencies could be the start of a new approach to improving performance and management in the NHS The new agencies could learn from regulators in other sectors and adopt a responsive approach to regulation #### New national agencies to regulate the NHS National Institute for Clinical Excellence Commission for Health Improvement Modernisation Agency National Patient Safety Agency National Clinical Assessment Authority Regulation is “sustained and focused control exercised by a public agency over activities which are valued by a community.”5 The key features of regulation are that …
The evolution of intellectual technologies: applying product life-cycle models to MIS implementation

Abstract This article develops the theoretical construct of an “intellectual technology” (as distinct from traditional industrial technologies) as a way to explain the difficulties organizations have in implementing new computer-based applications. Building on the notions of a product and process life-cycle, this concept is used to suggest that non-traditional approaches to the implementation of computer-based applications may be necessary. The “intellectual technology” concept implies that organizations must learn to apply new applications in their particular environment, and that this learning explains the difficulty many firms have in implementing Office Automation, CAD/CAM, Decision Support Systems, and the like.
A based federer spectral sequence and the rational homotopy of function spaces

We study the rational homotopy of function spaces within the context of Quillen's minimal models. Our method is to consider a spectral sequence with E~ 'q = Hq(X, lr~+q(Y) ® ~) converging to the rational homotopy groups of components of the based function space M(X,Y).. Our results include calculations of rational homotopy groups as well as general contributions to the rational classification problem for components of function spaces.
APPLICATIONS AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT IN VARISTOR TECHNOLOGY

Abstract Modern electrical and electronic equipment is exposed to several transient voltage threats which endanger the integrity of components, systems and even people. Several transient voltage suppression solutions are available. This presentation will give an update of new varistor configurations developed recently by Harris Semiconductor Division, to protect against transient overvoltages. The products to be dealt with will cover the low power-lower energy applications such as integrated circuits, automotive systems and other modern electronic examples as well as industrial equipment and power distribution networks. The product configuration and specifications will be presented, together with the range of applications where they can be used to deal with the expected transient environment.
Quality versus quantity of rules in a classifier jury: extended abstract

We show that under certain general circumstances there exists a choice of classifier rule length versus number of classifier rules, when given a fixed length classifier system, that maximizes performance of the system.
Hydrogenation/dehydrogenation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using ammonium tetrathiomolybdate as catalyst precursor

Abstract The hydrogenation and dehydrogenation behavior of naphthalene, phenanthrene, and pyrene using ammonium tetrathiomolybdate as a catalyst precursor were investigated via their product distribution and kinetic/thermodynamic parameters. Hydrogenation reactions were carried out in 25 ml microautoclave reactors at 350, 400, and 450°C for various times up to equilibrium conditions. A lumped kinetic model was used to determine forward and reverse rate constants, which were then used to determine Arrhenius parameters. Enthalpy data were obtained and compared to values calculated in the literature. It was found that the temperature where dehydrogenation of hydroaromatics became favorable over hydrogenation reactions decreased with increasing ring size. This was also shown by an increasing thermodynamic control over the reactions as ring size increased.
Phugoid oscillations at hypersonic speeds

A theoretical analysis is made of the long-period (phugoid) oscillations of a lifting vehicle in hypersonic flight up to and including orbital speeds in any atmosphere. These oscillations correspond to a direct exchange between the kinetic energy and the potential energy along an oscillating flight path governed primarily by the trimmed steady-state zero pitching moment. The expressions derived for the period and damping of these oscillations show that for all speeds near or greater than sonic the atmospheric density gradient has an important effect in decreasing the period and increasing the damping of the phugoid oscillations. As orbital speeds are approached, it is found that the decrease in gravitational attraction with altitude overcomes the effect of the decrease in atmospheric density with altitude so that with increasing speed the phugoid period asymptotically approaches the corresponding satellite orbit period. In addition, simple explicit expressions are derived for the so-called "short period" or angle-of-attack oscillations. These and the phugoid relations are shown to be in excellent agreement with the numerical calculations previously presented by Etkin.
THE SURVIVAL OF ARCHAIC TECHNOLOGY IN AN AGRICULTURAL WORLD: HOW THE ATLATL AND DART ENDURED IN THE NORTH AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

Southwestern archaeologists typically believe that the bow and arrow were introduced into the North American Southwest around AD 500, spread in popularity, and completely replaced the atlatl and dart by AD 800. This empirical pattern is inconsistent with the prehistory of the culture areas around the Southwest, in which the atlatl and dart continued to be used long after the bow and arrow were introduced, sometimes even into the Historic period. I examine two cases in the North American Southwest where I find evidence of the use of atlatls and darts after the supposed AD 800 date of their replacement. Based on these data, I argue that the atlatl and dart were used later than they are commonly believed to have been, and that the details regarding when they stopped being used remain open empirical questions.
A MEMS Differential-Scanning-Calorimetric Sensor for Thermodynamic Characterization of Biomolecules

This paper presents a microelectromechanical systems sensor for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of liquid-phase biomolecular samples. The device consists of two microchambers, each of which is based on a freestanding polyimide diaphragm and surrounded by air cavities for thermal isolation. The chambers are each equipped with a thin-film gold resistive heater and temperature sensor and are also integrated with a thin-film antimony-bismuth (Sb-Bi) thermopile. For DSC measurements, the chambers are respectively filled with a biomolecular sample and a reference solution, with their temperatures varied at a constant rate. The thermopile voltage is measured to determine the differential power between the chambers for thermodynamic characterization of the biomolecules. The device is used to measure the unfolding of proteins in a small volume (1 μL) and at practically relevant concentrations (approximately 1 mg/mL). Thermodynamic properties, including the enthalpy change and melting temperature, during this conformational transition are determined and found to agree with published data.
Economic consequences of mandatory GAAP changes: The case of SFAS No. 158

Abstract This study examines management's reaction to the SFAS No. 158 requirement to recognize previously disclosed post-retirement benefit obligations on the balance sheet. The results indicate that managers attempted to mitigate the impact of the standard by increasing the assumed pension discount rate in subsequent periods. Further, the discount rate choice was related to the magnitude of the SFAS No. 158 balance sheet adjustment. Specifically, firms with larger required liability adjustments and more volatile pension assets and obligations were more likely to increase their discount rates. The findings have important implications for research regarding the economic consequences of accounting regulations and in particular the debate surrounding recognition versus disclosure since they indicate that managers react to the relocation of information from the financial statement footnotes to the balance sheet.
Cancer Incidence, Mortality, and Associated Risk Factors Among Asian Americans of Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese Ethnicities

Many studies demonstrate that cancer incidence and mortality patterns among Asian Americans are heterogeneous, but national statistics on cancer for Asian ethnic groups are not routinely available. This article summarizes data on cancer incidence, mortality, risk factors, and screening for 5 of the largest Asian American ethnic groups in California. California has the largest Asian American population of any state and makes special efforts to collect health information for ethnic minority populations. We restricted our analysis to the 4 most common cancers (prostate, breast, lung, colon/rectum) and for the 3 sites known to be more common in Asian Americans (stomach, liver, cervix). Cancer incidence and mortality were summarized for 5 Asian American ethnic groups in California in order of population size (Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese). Chinese Americans had among the lowest incidence and death rate from all cancer combined; however, Chinese women had the highest lung cancer death rate. Filipinos had the highest incidence and death rate from prostate cancer and the highest death rate from female breast cancer. Vietnamese had among the highest incidence and death rates from liver, lung, and cervical cancer. Korean men and women had by far the highest incidence and mortality rates from stomach cancer. Japanese experienced the highest incidence and death rates from colorectal cancer and among the highest death rates from breast and prostate cancer. Variations in cancer risk factors were also observed and were for the most part consistent with variations in cancer incidence and mortality. Differences in cancer burden among Asian American ethnic groups should be considered in the clinical setting and in cancer control planning.
Precision feedback control of electrorheological fluids using an optical state sensor

Electroheological (ER) fluids have electrically controllable stiffness, heat transfer and flow properties. Since their invention in 1947, they have been proposed for a variety of applications involving the electrical control of systems such as hydraulic valves, clutches, heat exchangers and suspension systems. Previous approaches to application of ER fluids have been hampered by the relatively slow, strongly time-dependent, non-linear behavior of these fluid systems. The effects of electric field activation history, temperature and humidity also contribute to wide variation in 'open-loop' sped and strength of response. Successful application of ER fluids to engineering systems requires fast, precise control of the internal micro-scale fluid state which yields the controllable macro-scale properties to be exploited. This work presents a 'closed-loop', laser- sensing, feedback control approach of ER fluid state which allows for higher initial field strengths to speed ER response while lowering the level of applied electric field to exactly that level required to maintain a specified level of ER fluid viscosity, stiffness, thermal conductivity or radiative energy transmissibility. The key to the work is a laser-based optical sensor of fluid internal state. An analytical model for both the ER fluid and control systems are developed which predicts ER fluid system response as controlled field drive is varied. Predicted ER fluid responses from the analytical model are then compared with laboratory measured responses for a prototype feedback controlled ER fluid system. Laser sensing and feedback allows the us of these fluids in a wide variety of applications where the lack of fast, precise control limited their past use. The ability to quickly and precisely control ER fluid response may make possible the applications of ER fluids promised since their invention 5 decades ago. When compared against conventional 'open-loop' fluid control methods, laboratory tests of 'closed-loop' feedback control demonstrate ER fluid response both 30 times faster with 30 times more precision than previously possible.
Perceptions of Body Image and Cultural Health in Hispanic Adults

The purpose of this research was to investigate how perceptions of body image and cultural health may negatively impact health outcomes of Hispanic populations in theNebraska Panhandle. Focus groups (n 10), surveys (demographics, body image, and acculturation), and anthropometric measurements were conducted with 59 Hispanic adults. Age ranged from 19 to 76 years, 80% were female, 60% were born in the United States (US), and time in the US ranged from6months to 65 years. Anthropometricmeasures showed80%had waist/hip ratios whichmay put them at increased risk for chronic disease and a fat percentage in the overweight/obese range, and 40% were hypertensive for systolic and 12% for diastolic blood pressure. Years in theUSwas positively correlated with acculturation scores and anthropometric measurements. Therewere no significant differences among participant’s responses for rating the health of an infant and adolescent based on body image sheets. Qualitative data on body image and perceptions of health revealed common themes that a cultural preference for heavier infants remains present. Body image sheet scores indicated participantswere aware of and related health risks to heavier children. However, qualitative data indicated that cultural perceptions of what is healthy (preference for chunky, or heavier babies) still persists even though there were significant differences in language use, social connections, eating patterns, and an increased awareness of health risks. This preference indicates a need for behavioral/attitude modification using sensitive and culturally appropriate methods and that collecting quantitative data alone does not accurately reflect practices.
Applying Motivational Interviewing to School-Based Consultation: A Commentary on “Has Consultation Achieved Its Primary Prevention Potential?,” an article by Joseph E. Zins

Despite a decade of advances since Zins' 1995 article on prevention, much work lies ahead to make prevention everyday consultation activities for school psychologists. To foster prevention efforts, this commentary discusses how motivational interviewing in school-based consultation (a) might peak consultees' initial interest in change, and (b) address barriers to successfully implementing and maintaining change plans.
Unilateral ischemic sensorimotor cortical damage induces contralesional synaptogenesis and enhances skilled reaching with the ipsilateral forelimb in adult male rats

Unilateral damage to the forelimb representation area of the sensorimotor cortex (SMC) results in a compensatory reliance on the unimpaired (ipsilateral to the lesion) forelimb as well as reorganization of neuronal structure and connectivity in the contralateral motor cortex. Recently, male rats with unilateral electrolytic SMC lesions were found to have enhanced skilled reaching performance with the ipsilesional forelimb compared with sham-operated controls. The present study was performed to determine whether these behavioral findings are replicable using an ischemic lesion and whether there is a link between the enhanced learning and synaptogenesis in motor cortical layer V opposite the trained limb and lesion, as assessed using stereological methods for light and electron microscopy. Rats were given a sham operation or an endothelin-1 (ET-1) induced ischemic SMC lesion. They were then trained for 20 days on a skilled reaching task with the unimpaired limb or received control procedures. As with previous findings using electrolytic lesions, rats with unilateral ischemic SMC lesions performed significantly better using the unimpaired forelimb than did sham-operates. Lesions, but not training, significantly increased the total number of motor cortical layer V synapses per neuron as well as the number of perforated and multisynaptic bouton (MSB) synapses per neuron compared with shams. Thus, in addition to a net increase in synapses, the improved reaching ability was coupled with an increase in synapse subtypes that have previously been linked to enhanced synaptic efficacy. The failure to induce synaptogenesis in layer V with reach training alone is in contrast to previous findings and may be related to training intensity.
Altered glucose metabolism and the invasive tumor phenotype

Multiple genetic changes are necessary for carcinogenesis, yet a wide range of different genetic changes may give rise to malignant behavior and no set or sequence of defects is seen in all cancers. The similar pattern of invasive growth in malignancy despite the genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity of tumor populations suggests that a final cellular state common to all cancers may exist. Such a state must be the sequela of many possible genetic changes, and the cellular properties of the state must promote malignant, invasive growth. It is hypothesized that the common denominator of the transformed state is reversion to primitive phenotype, and its invasive properties stem from alteration of metabolic pathways. Increased use of glycolysis and consequent production of acid have been consistently demonstrated in malignant cells in vitro and are seen in the vast majority of clinical tumors imaged with FDG Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS). Application of mathematical models from population ecology and competition theory demonstrates that these metabolic changes will alter the local microenvironment in ways that favor tumor growth but are lethal to normal cells. This phenomenon alone appears to provide a simple but sufficient mechanism for invasive tumor growth. This hypothesis is testable experimentally and suggests significant new approaches to tumor therapy.
The influence of employee, job/task, and organizational factors on adherence to universal precautions among nurses

Abstract Universal precautions (UP) refer to recommended work practices designed to help prevent occupational exposure to HIV/AIDS and other blood-borne pathogens in health care settings. However, despite widespread dissemination of UP guidelines and subsequent government regulatory action, worker adherence remains less than satisfactory. The present study used hierarchical, multiple regression analysis to examine the relative influence of four sets of factors on worker adherence to UP: demographics, personal characteristics, job/task factors, and organization-level factors. Data were analyzed on a sample of 451 nurses employed at a large U.S. medical center. Consistent with the general hypothesis of the study, job/task and organization-level factors were the best predictors of adherence. Using the results from the study, a heuristic model of the adherence process is proposed that highlights the contributions of job hindrances and organizational safety climate to UP-related behavior. A three-pronged intervention strategy is also presented that emphasizes (1) the availability and accessibility of personal protective devices, (2) the reduction of UP-related job hindrances and barriers, and (3) improvements in safety performance feedback and related communications. Given the preliminary nature of this study, several recommendations for future research are also offered.
Mass spectrometric measurement of neuropeptide secretion in the crab, Cancer borealis, by in vivo microdialysis

Neuropeptides (NPs), a unique and highly important class of signaling molecules across the animal kingdom, have been extensively characterized in the neuronal tissues of various crustaceans. Because many NPs are released into circulating fluid (hemolymph) and travel to distant sites in order to exhibit physiological effects, it is important to measure the secretion of these NPs from living animals. In this study, we report on extensive characterization of NPs released in the crab Cancer borealis by utilizing in vivo microdialysis to sample NPs from the hemolymph. We determined the necessary duration for collection of microdialysis samples, enabling more comprehensive identification of NP content while maintaining the temporal resolution of sampling. Analysis of in vivo microdialysates using a hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap™ Q-Exactive mass spectrometer revealed that more than 50 neuropeptides from 9 peptide families—including the allatostatin, RFamide, orcokinin, tachykinin-related peptide and RYamide families – were released into the circulatory system. The presence of these peptides both in neuronal tissues as well as in hemolymph indicates their putative hormonal roles, a finding that merits further investigation. Preliminary quantitative measurement of these identified NPs suggested several potential candidates that maybe associated with the circadian rhythm in Cancer borealis.
Hormone ontogeny in the ovine fetus. VII. Circulating luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone in mid- and late gestation.

Ovine LH and FSH concentrations in plasma were determined by homologous RIH on 96 samples from 24 chronically catheterized fetuses from 79 days gestation to term (147 days) and in 75 fetal samples obtained intraoperatively between 59–148 days gestation. In both series, FSH and LH were detected in the youngest fetus studied (59-day-old female; 64-day-old male). Similar concentrations were obtained in intraoperative and chronically catheterized fetuses. FSH concentrations in chronically catheterized female fetuses were 5.4 ± 1.2 ng/ml between 71–90 days and fell after 139 days to 2.5 ± 0.4 ng/ml. In the male fetuses, plasma FSH was lower than in the female fetuses before 110 days. Between 71–90 days, plasma FSH was 1.4 ± 0.6 ng/ml, rose to 4.7 ± 0.6 ng/ml between 91–110 days, and then fell to 2.2 ± 0.3 ng/ml after 130 days. The sex difference between 71–90 days was present as well when the data obtained from chronically catheterized and acute operative fetal samples were combined. LH concentrations in femal...
Comparative erosion rates of stone and iron meteorites under small-particle bombardment

Abstract Various brittle and ductile materials were subjected to bombardment by small particles and the mechanisms and relative rates of mass loss were compared. Among the samples studied were the meteorites Indarch and Hoba, a chondrite and an iron, respectively. With 50 μ alumina particles at approximately 0.3 km/sec, experiments with terrestrial materials showed that the mass loss was greater for the less ductile specimens. This trend was also observed at higher velocity. At 2.6 km/sec, 6 μ silicon carbide particles caused Indarch to erode at a rate of about 3 × 10 −4 cm/J/cm 2 of incident kinetic energy. Identical bombardment of a magnetite single crystal, and additional bombardment of Indarch by 7 μ iron particles, yielded erosion rates that differed by less than 50 % from the one quoted above. By contrast, the maximum rate of erosion from Hoba was found to be at least two orders of magnitude smaller than that of Indarch. These results and analogous results from the literature are compared with the theoretical treatment of Opik. Theory and experiment agree moderately well for brittle materials, but not when theory is compared with measurements of mass lost from ductile materials. The discrepancy is shown to be attributable to the ability of ductile materials to deform plastically without fracturing.
Sectarian imaginaries: The micropolitics of sectarianism and state-making in Northern Pakistan

The Gilgit region of Northern Pakistan has recently witnessed intense Shia—Sunni hostility after decades of communal harmony. This article uses the arena of secular education as a micropolitical si...
Pulmonary arterial hypertension induced by distention of the main pulmonary artery in conscious newborn, young, and adult sheep.

Summary: Distention of the main pulmonary artery by balloon inflation in sheep results in presumably reflex elevation of pulmonary arterial pressure and resistance distal to the balloon. This response to main pulmonary artery distention is significantly greater in newborn lambs than in older lambs or adult sheep. In several of the newborn lambs, pulmonary artery pressure was raised to supra-systemic levels. Further, in some of the newborn animals, these increases in pulmonary artery pressure and resistance were sustained after deflation of the balloon for periods up to 2 hr. The functional significance of this pulmonary hypertension reflex was not elucidated. However, the data strongly suggest that this reflex may contribute to the maintenance of high pulmonary vascular resistance during fetal and early neonatal life. Speculation: Proximal distention of the main pulmonary artery induces a positive feedback reflex which significantly elevates pulmonary artery pressure and resistance. We postulate that this reflex operates in conjunction with hypoxia to maintain high pulmonary vascular resistance in the fetus. It is possible that at birth this reflex mechanism operates in reverse to help lower the pulmonary vascular resistance smoothly, thus avoiding volume overload of the neonatal lungs and left ventricle. Finally, we postulate that this reflex may play a role in the pathogenesis of the persistant fetal circulation syndrome (7).
Exact superpotentials in four-dimensions

Supersymmetric gauge theories in four dimensions can display interesting nonperturbative phenomena. Although the superpotential dynamically generated by these phenomena can be highly nontrivial, it can often be exactly determined. We discuss some general techniques for analyzing the Wilsonian superpotential and demonstrate them with simple but nontrivial examples.
THIELE'S ACID REVISITED : ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF TWO MINOR PRODUCTS FORMED BY CARBONATION OF CYCLOPENTADIENIDE ANION

Abstract Carbonation of sodium cyclopentadienide leads to the formation of 3aα,4α,7α,7aα-tetrahydro-4,7-methano-1H-indene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid [i.e., “Thiele's acid”, 2i (R = H), 60%] along with several isomeric C12H12O4 minor products. The dimethyl esters of two of these minor products, i.e., dimethyl 3aα,4α,7α,7aα-tetrahydro-4,7-methano-1H-indene-2,4-dicarboxylate [2a (R = Me), 13%) and the corresponding 3a,6-dicarboxylate [2n (R = Me), 1%] have been isolated and characterized. Intramolecular [2 + 2] photocyclization of 2a (R = Me) afforded 3a (R = Me) (30%), whose structure was established unequivocally by application of X-ray crystallographic techniques.
Damage detection in assembly fixtures using non-destructive electromechanical impedance sensors and multivariate statistics

Dimensional integrity of assembled products is a critical factor in defining product functionality and process productivity. It has been reported that fixture faults are one of the root causes of defective sheet metal assemblies. Therefore, integrating new sensor technologies into manufacturing process fixtures will have a direct impact on improving assembly system quality by helping to detect fixture faults faster. A piezoelectric impedance sensor combined with multivariate statistical process control (MSPC) is proposed to accurately monitor the structural integrity of locating fixtures. The new sensing and detection methodology reduces costs associated with production downtime due to faulty fixtures. MSPC is utilized due to its inherent advantages over current sensor monitoring techniques, mainly damage metrics. Previously used damage metrics fail to function properly if voltage or measurement variation is observed. Numerous false alarms result along with an inability to reference or calibrate a fixture to a healthy state. Introducing MSPC concepts and methodologies into piezoelectric fixture sensing systems decreases false alarms, enables healthy sensor state identification, and improves monitoring capabilities.