cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Irreversibility phenomena associated with heat transfer and fluid friction in laminar flows through singly connected ducts

Abstract The main objective of this study is to explore the existence of thermodynamic irreversibility extrema for laminar fluid flow with heat transfer under fully developed conditions through different cross-sectional, free-flow area ducts. The evaluation of thermodynamic trade-offs caused by simultaneous heat transfer at a finite temperature difference and fluid friction will be emphasized in terms of the dimensionless entropy generation as a performance criterion. A set of duct geometries under investigation included circular, rectangular, square, triangular, sine and a set of longitudinal finned circular tubes. One of the pragmatical goals of the analysis is to establish the mutual relationship between the hydrodynamic and thermal aspects using, from one side, the conventional area goodness factor, and from the other side, the thermodynamic performance evaluation criterion. The quantitative results for the set of parameters under investigation show that the improvement and/or the deterioration of the performance of one geometry with respect to another depend on the duct geometry, the Reynolds number and the inlet wall temperature ratio for a given fluid and a certain duct length.
Whitman on War: Four Poems from Drum-Taps

Argues against previous critics' claims that the "order in which the poems appear in Leaves of Grass is of dubious significance" by demonstrating how four poems from Drum-Taps-"Cavalry Crossing a Ford," "Bivouac on a Mountain Side," "An Army Corps on the March," and "By the Bivouac's Fitful Flame"-form a coherent sequence.
Spindle-fiber attachment end of the X-chromosome of Drosophila virilis

Virgin females heterozygous for, several sex-linked genes were subjected to X-ray treatment to increase the occurrence of primary non-disjunctional females. The percentage of homozygosis among these females for loci tested was as follows: sc (3.0) 26.7, c (23.5) 31.1, mt (68.5) 37.8, s (90.5) 22.2, sb (109.7) 28.9, ap (114.7) 26.3, rg (132.0) 17.7, bb (146) 4.2. The decrease of homozygosis toward the bobbed end of the chromosome indicates that the spindle-fiber attachment is located at that end.
Microbial pathogenesis: mechanisms of infectious disease.

The 2007 Microbial Pathogenesis: Mechanisms of Infectious Disease meeting was recently held in Snowmass Village, CO, USA from July 21–27, 2007. This forum was organized by Brad T Cookson (University of Washington, WA, USA) and Michele S Swanson (University of Michigan, MI, USA) and brought together investigators and students from across the globe. The meeting provided a unique opportunity for investigators interested in the mechanisms of pathogenesis, regardless of the pathogen, to share ideas and forge new collaborations. Participants included bacteriologists, mycologists, parasitologists and virologists with a common interest in understanding the host–pathogen interaction. Key topics included innate and adaptive immune responses, microbial surfaces, the host–mucosal interface, chronic infection, regulation of host–pathogen interactions, host cell death and emerging problems. This report highlights the state of the field and discusses these areas of microbial pathogenesis. The meeting began in style with a keynote address by Nobel laureate, Peter Doherty. Doherty reviewed what we have learned over the past 30 years about antigen-specific T cells and the immune responses to viral infection. The audience was both entertained and enlightened by Doherty’s humor and wealth of knowledge. His talk set the stage for the remainder of the meeting.
Chlorophyll-Based Model of Seawater Optical Properties

A one-parameter model of the inherent optical properties of biologically stable waters is proposed. The model is based on the results of in situ measurements of inherent optical properties that have been conducted at different seas and oceans by a number of researchers. The results of these investigations are processed to force this model to agree satisfactorily with an established regression model that connects the color index with the chlorophyll concentration. The model couples two concentrations of colored dissolved organic matter (concentrations of humic and fulvic acids) and two concentrations of suspended scattering particles (concentrations of terrigenic and biogenic particles) with the chlorophyll concentration. As a result, this model expresses all inherent properties of seawater by a single parameter, the concentration of chlorophyll.
Towards Building an Optimal Demand Response Framework for DC Distribution Networks

Direct current (DC) power systems have recently been proposed as a promising technology for distribution networks and microgrids. By eliminating unnecessary conversion stages, DC distribution systems can enable seamless integration of natively DC devices such as photovoltaic cells and batteries. Moreover, DC technologies can overcome several disadvantages of alternating current (AC) distribution systems, such as synchronization requirements and reactive power compensation. Therefore, in this paper, the first steps are taken towards designing demand response programs for DC distribution networks. The idea is to adjust the internal parameters of power electronics loads to ensure reliable and efficient operation of the DC distribution system. In this regard, first, an optimization-based foundation is proposed for demand response in DC distribution networks in presence of distributed generators. Then, the formulated problem is solved using both centralized and decentralized approaches, where the latter requires devising a pricing mechanism. Finally, simulation results are presented to assess the performance and to gain insights into the proposed demand-response paradigm.
A New Deal for the Arts

During the depths of the Great Depression of the 1930s and into the early years of World War II, the federal government, as one of its efforts to employ some of the millions of Americans then without work, supported the arts in unprecedented ways. For 11 years, between 1933 and 1943, federal tax dollars employed artists, musicians, actors, writers, photographers, and dancers. Never before or since has our government so extensively sponsored the arts. This book, based on a 1997 exhibit at the National Archives and Records Administration, tells the story of these short-lived, but remarkable, cultural endeavors.
The effects of behavioral treatment and fasting on eating behaviors and weight loss: A case study

Stimulus control procedures, nutritional advice, programmed snacks, and suggestions for the alteration of eating rate were incorporated into the treatment of a 34-year-old female. Instructional phases were followed by an 8-week “proteinsparing fast” which the subject undertook against the advice of the therapist. Direct observation, self-monitoring, and weight data were obtained throughout the course of treatment and during four probes across 6 months of follow-up. Instructional control of several eating behaviors was demonstrated, and these behavioral gains were unaffected by the period of fasting. Behavior changes also were paralleled by moderate weekly weight losses. Implications for future research and cautions about the protein-sparing fast are discussed.
Non-specificity of the male factor enhancing egg-laying in Diptera

Abstract Four heterologus transplants among the Diptera, A. aegypti, C. pipiens, and D. melanogaster, confirm the earlier reprot on Aedes concerning the non-specificity of the male factor enhancing oviposition. In each case, accessory glands of adult males were transplanted into the thorax of virgin females and produced a significant rise in oviposition. Two non-dipterans, T. molitor and T. obscurus gave negative results to gland transplants. Bioassay of saline extracts of the male factor of A. aegypti indicate that it produces its effect (1) at a site isolated from the injection area; (2) after a time delay (2 days); (3) when in small quantity (extract from one male stimulates oviposition in 24 females); (4) with sustained activity (100 per cent oviposition of second egg clutch). The extract is inactivated by heat but not by freezing. The relation of age to the stimulant effect of the testis was discussed.
Significant reduction of laboratory specimen labeling errors by implementation of an electronic ordering system paired with a bar-code specimen labeling process.

Study objective We measure the rate of emergency department (ED) specimen processing error reduction after implementation of an electronic physician order entry system paired with a bar-coded specimen labeling process. Methods A cohort pre- and postintervention study was conducted in the ED during a 61-month period ending September 2008 in a large urban teaching hospital. Historically, laboratory order and requisition processing was done by hand. Interventions included implementing an ED-specific electronic documentation and information system, which included physician order entry with patient verification through bar-coded wristbands and bar-coded specimen labels. The main outcome measure was processing error rate, defined as unlabeled/mislabeled/wrong patient specimen or requisition. Pre- and postimplementation data were tabulated monthly and compared in aggregate by χ 2 test. The contribution of ED error to total institution specimen error was also calculated. Results Of the 724,465 specimens collected preintervention, 3,007 (0.42%) were recorded as errors versus 379 errors (0.11%) of 334,039 specimens collected postintervention, which represents a 74% relative and 0.31% absolute decrease (95% confidence interval 0.28% to 0.32%). The proportion of institutional errors contributed by the ED was reduced from 20.4% to 11.4%, a 44% relative and 9.0% absolute reduction (95% confidence interval 7.7% to 10.3%). Subanalysis revealed that the majority of continued errors occur when the physician order entry/bar-code system could not be used (eg, blood bank or surgical pathology specimens). Conclusion Combining an electronic physician order entry with bar-coded patient verification and electronic documentation and information system–generated specimen labels can significantly reduce ED specimen-related errors, with sizable influence on institutional specimen-related errors. Continued use of hand labeling and processing for special specimens appears inadvisable, though the cost-effectiveness of this intervention has not been established.
Detector issues for relativistic heavy ion experimentation

Abstract Several aspects of experiments using relativistic heavy ion beams are discussed. The problems that the current generation of light ion experiments would face in using gold beams are noted. A brief review of colliding beam experiments for heavy ion beams is contrasted with requirements for SSC detectors.
Immunologic response to aerosols of affinity-purified antigen in hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Abstract On epidemiologic grounds, respirable particles from chilled-water air-conditioning systems in textile production plants have been implicated as a cause of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. We have purified the antigen from scum growing in this chilled water by antibody-affinity chromatography by use of IgG isolated from a pool of serum obtained from three workers with disease. Two patients with the disease, three coworkers without the disease, and two unexposed control subjects inhaled a dose of the purified antigen approximately equivalent to that amount calculated to be inhaled during an 8-hour work shift. Both workers with disease experienced fever, malaise, cough, and dyspnea 6 to 8 hours after the aerosol challenge. In these two patients the exposure evoked a transient decrease in circulating lymphocytes, predominately T cells. Before challenge the patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cells demonstrated a blastogenic response to the antigen. The responding cells had disappeared from the circulation 24 hours after the challenge. Seventy-two hours after the challenge, mononuclear cells that were producing large amounts of specific IgG antibody appeared in the circulation. We conclude that the same antigen(s) that react with IgG antibody produced an acute episode of the disease, that specific antigen-recognition cells disappear from the peripheral blood after exposure to the antigen (presumably because they are attracted to the lung), and that antibody-forming cells appear in the peripheral blood approximately 2 days after a challenge. These antigen-specific reactions of circulating mononuclear cells may be specific for the disease, but studies on a larger number of cases are needed to be certain.
Optimization of photorefractive polymers doped with styrene-based chromophores

We present a study on the effects of the dark conductivity on the photorefractive performance of polymers doped with styrene-based chromophores. We find that reducing dark conductivity in such composites increases diffraction efficiency and at the same time decreases the response time. We use a polymer composite based on a polyvinylcarbazole matrix doped with 4-Homopiperidinobenzylidenemalononitrile (7- DCST), sensitized with C60, and plasticized with N- ethylcarbazole (ECZ) and butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP). The reduction of the dark conductivity is achieved by coating one of the electrodes with a SiO blocking layer.
THE MICRO-MECHANICS OF SINGLE MOLECULES STUDIED WITH ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY

The atomic force microscope (AFM) in its force-measuring mode is capable of effecting displacements on an angstrom scale (10 A = 1 nm) and measuring forces of a few piconewtons. Recent experiments have applied AFM techniques to study the mechanical properties of single biological polymers. These properties contribute to the function of many proteins exposed to mechanical strain, including components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The force-bearing proteins of the ECM typically contain multiple tandem repeats of independently folded domains, a common feature of proteins with structural and mechanical roles. Polysaccharide moieties of adhesion glycoproteins such as the selectins are also subject to strain. Force-induced extension of both types of molecules with the AFM results in conformational changes that could contribute to their mechanical function. The force-extension curve for amylose exhibits a transition in elasticity caused by the conversion of its glucopyranose rings from the chair to the boat conformation. Extension of multi-domain proteins causes sequential unraveling of domains, resulting in a force-extension curve displaying a saw tooth pattern of peaks. The engineering of multimeric proteins consisting of repeats of identical domains has allowed detailed analysis of the mechanical properties of single protein domains. Repetitive extension and relaxation has enabled direct measurement of rates of domain unfolding and refolding. The combination of site-directed mutagenesis with AFM can be used to elucidate the amino acid sequences that determine mechanical stability. The AFM thus offers a novel way to explore the mechanical functions of proteins and will be a useful tool for studying the micro-mechanics of exocytosis.
Indentation of functionally graded beams and its application to low-velocity impact response

Abstract The problem of contact between a rigid cylindrical indenter and a functionally graded (FG) beam is studied. The elastic modulus of the material varies in an exponential fashion across the thickness of the beam. For the sake of comparison indentation of a homogeneous beam is also considered. In the case of FG beams indentation of both soft and hard sides of the beam are studied. Results are presented for contact force–contact length relations and contact stresses in the three types of beams. Maximum normal strains and stresses and maximum transverse shear stresses are plotted as a function of strain energy (work done by the indenter) in the beam. The results are extended to low-velocity impact problems. It is seen that for a given impact energy in low-velocity impacts, the maximum stresses and strains are significantly lower in FG beams when the impact occurs on the softer side of the beam.
Assessing Commonality and Favorability of First Names

From 1476 students enrolled in general psychology, the four most common and least common male and female first names were identified. Students in another class (31 men, 48 women) judged which of 20 traits they associated with each name. Compared with less common names, the more common names were associated with over twice as many favorable traits.
Non-enumerative generation of statistical path delays for ATPG

A Monte Carlo based approach capable of identifying the probability distributions that describe the delay of every sensitizable path in a path implicit manner is proposed. It is shown experimentally that the statistical information for all paths is generated as fast as the traditional Monte Carlo simulation that identifies the probability density function for the circuit delay.
USE OF FILM-FORMATION MODELS FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF ELLIPSOMETER OBSERVATIONS

Abstract Mathematical film-formation models have been used for the interpretation of ellipsometer measurements of anodic films on metals. The models consider the simultaneous or sequential formation of several surface layers with time-varying properties. Mass transport between layers is modeled to take place by diffusion, migration and convection. In experiments, mass transport is controlled and current and potential are measured simultaneously with the ellipsometer measurements. The application of continuous mass and charge balances in the models makes it possible to derive values of up to seven film parameters by fitting time-dependent ellipsometer measurement in multi-dimensional space.
Doubling initialization revisited

Abstract In previous work, the author studied errors arising solely from initial-layer approximations in doubling. It now appears that misleading conclusions may be drawn from that work, because it failed to consider the interaction of angular and initial-layer error. That interaction is such that decreasing initial-layer error (a) often has no effect on total error, or (b) sometimes increases total error. ONe concludes from this that, contrary to accepted practice, it is advisable to use an intial layer of fairly large optical depth, in order to strike a balance between angular and initial-layer error. The diamond initialization still seems generally superior, but only dramatically so for high orders of angular approximation.
X-ray diffraction measurements of the extensibility of actin and myosin filaments in contracting muscle.

We have used a small angle scattering system assembled on the high flux multipole wiggler beam line at CHESS (Cornell) to make very accurate spacing measurements of certain meridional and layer-line reflections from contracting muscles. During isometric contraction, the actin 27.3 A reflection increases in spacing from its resting value by approximately 0.3%, and other actin reflections, including the 59 and 51 A off-meridional reflections, show corresponding changes in spacing. When tension is augmented or diminished by applying moderate speed length changes to a contracting muscle, changes in spacing in the range of 0.19–0.24% (when scaled to full isometric tension) can be seen. The larger difference between the resting and isometric spacings suggests either nonlinearity at low tension levels or the presence of a component related to activation itself. Myosin filaments also show similar increases in axial period during slow stretch, in addition to the well known larger change associated with activation. An actin spacing change of 0.25–0.3% can also be measured during a 2 ms time frame immediately after a quick release, showing that the elastic behavior is rapid. These observations of filament extensions totaling 2–3 nm per half-sarcomere may necessitate some significant revision of the interpretation of a number of mechanical experiments in muscle, in which it has usually been assumed that virtually all of the elasticity resides in the cross-bridges.
Correlated trait response: comparing amphibian defense strategies across a stress gradient

Animals inhabiting complex environments often contend with multiple stressors that can select for conflicting responses. Individuals can mediate these conflicts by utilizing correlated responses ac...
Tetrahydrocannabinol and acetylcholinesterase.

Abstract Recent evidence suggests that the psychoactive effect of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 9 -THC), the major psychoactive constituent of marihuana, may be mediated through an alteration of cholinergic neurotransmission. One possible mechanism by which Δ 9 -THC could have its effect is by affecting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and there is evidence that has suggested that this may be an important mechanism. The results reported in the present study have shown that there is no physiologically important interaction between AChE and Δ 9 -THC or its metabolites that could explain its psychoactive effects or the profound clinical depression observed when human marihuana users are administered the cholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine.
Spontaneously Broken Gauge Symmetry and Elementary Particle Masses

There are a number of approximate relations among elementary particle masses. In conventional theories, these are explained by assuming a hierarchy of interactions with the property that the stronger interactions have the more extensive symmetry. In renormalizable theories based on spontaneously broken gauge symmetry, this view is untenable. Manifest breaking of the gauge symmetry would destroy the renormalizability. We explore the possible origin of approximate mass formulas in theories of this kind.
Immunoglobulin M: fixation of human complement by the Fc fragment.

The Fc fragment [(Fc) 5 µ with a molecular weight of 342,000] of human immunoglobulin M from patients with Waldenstrom9s macroglobulinemia has a complement fixing ability approximately 19 times greater on a molar basis than that of the parent immunoglobulin M. This fragment, which occurs naturally as a pentamer fixes human but not guinea pig complement, and this activity remains unchanged even after the fragment is reduced to the monomeric form.
Chronic urinary retention and pelvic floor hypertonicity after surgery for endometriosis: a case series.

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate 4 cases of chronic urinary retention and pelvic floor muscle spasms after surgery for endometriosis. Study design These patients underwent a complete history, physical exam, and diagnostic work- up. The results were analyzed with regards to type and extent of inciting surgery, diagnostic findings, postoperative recovery, and treatment success. Results The patients' mean age was 39.5 years and all had undergone various surgical interventions for endometriosis. In addition to urinary retention, all developed debilitating pelvic floor muscle spasm postoperatively. Physical exam revealed pelvic floor hypertonicity and urodynamics indicated hypoactive detrusor contractility. Neurodiagnostic testing gave evidence of neuropathy in all subjects. Conclusion Extensive endometriosis surgery may pose a risk for postoperative bladder dysfunction and pelvic floor muscle spasm.
Norepinephrine Inhibits Endocytosis In Insulin-secreting Cells

Norepinephrine (NE) is a well-known physiological inhibitor of insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells. We investigated modulation of exocytosis and endocytosis by NE in INS 832/13 cells using whole-cell capacitance measurements. Exocytosis was stimulated by depolarizing pulses from −70mV to +10mV of variable duration and was followed by compensatory endocytosis. Inhibition of Ca2+-evoked exocytosis by NE was overcome by increasing Ca2+ influx, either by increasing the depolarizing pulse duration (up to 500ms) or by increasing the extracellular Ca2+ concentration up to 10mM. When stimulated by a short train of 500ms pulses in the presence of NE (5μM), robust exocytosis was observed but endocytosis was markedly inhibited. The NE inhibition of endocytosis was abolished by the α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine (10μM) and was not affected by PTX-treatment (150ng/ml), demonstrating that NE inhibition of endocytosis is mediated via the α2-adrenergic receptor and not via Gi and/or Go proteins. When a synthetic peptide that mimicked the last 13 c-terminal amino acids of the Gzα subunit was dialyzed into the cells via the whole-cell patch pipette, NE inhibition of endocytosis was fully blocked, suggesting that Gz may be mediating the inhibition. Single vesicle recordings by cell attached capacitance measurements indicate that inhibition of endocytosis by NE is due to a decreased number of endocytic events without a significant change in endocytic vesicle size. Further analysis of fission pore kinetics revealed that NE selectively inhibited the rapid fission events. Our findings establish a novel action for NE and suggest the possibility that NE may modulate endocytosis in the central nervous system and elsewhere.
Stability of diffuse high-beta helical systems

The stability of m = 1 long-wavelength kink modes in diffuse high-β l = 0 and l = 1 systems has been investigated. For l = 0 it is found that new modes exist with potentially dangerous growth rates and mode structure but which degenerate into zero growth-rate modes in the sharp boundary limit. The existence of such modes provides an explanation to an apparent paradox in the literature concerning l = 0 wall stabilization. For l = 1, it is found that the sharp boundary wall stabilization of the gross m = 1 mode remains essentially unchanged for diffuse profiles. This is favourable for the Scyllac programme.
LUCERO: Shining a Light on Latino Student Retention

The retention rate of a growing Latino student population at Lansing Community College (LCC) continues to be an institutional priority. The college has had many successful outcomes from programs de...
Patterns of DNA Methylation in Development, Division of Labor and Hybridization in an Ant with Genetic Caste Determination

Background DNA methylation is a common regulator of gene expression, including acting as a regulator of developmental events and behavioral changes in adults. Using the unique system of genetic caste determination in Pogonomyrmex barbatus, we were able to document changes in DNA methylation during development, and also across both ancient and contemporary hybridization events.
Overexpression of barley hva1 gene in creeping bentgrass for improving drought tolerance

The objectives of this study were to test the feasibility of introducing barley hva1 gene, a LEA3 member, into perennial grass species using the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation technique and to determine whether heterologous expression of hva1 would alleviate water-deficit injury in grass species. Creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera var. palustris), a drought-intolerant grass species, was transformed transiently or stably using three different promoters in conjunction with the downstream report/target genes. Two abscisic acid (ABA)-inducible promoters, ABA1 and ABA2 derived from ABA-response complex (ABRC3) were used to examine stress-responsive expression of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Transient expression of GFP demonstrated the inducibility of ABA1 and ABA2 promoters in response to exogenous ABA application. The ABA2 promoter was further studied for stress-responsive expression of hva1 and a maize Ubi-1 promoter was tested for constitutive expression of the gene. In the T(0) generation, the Ubi-1::hva1 transformants displayed variable expression levels of HVA1 protein under normal growth conditions. The hva1 gene in the ABA2::hva1 transformants maintained low expression under well-watered conditions, but was upregulated under water-deficit conditions. The tolerance to water deficit of T(0) transgenic lines was assessed by measuring leaf relative water content and visually rating the severity of leaf wilting during to water stress. Under water-stressed conditions, some transgenic lines maintained high water content in leaves and showed significantly less extent of leaf wilting compared with non-transgenic control plants. These results indicated that the introduction of barley hva1 gene using constitutive or stress-inducible promoters lessened water-deficit injury in creeping bentgrass, suggesting that heterologous expression of LEA3 protein genes may enhance the survival ability of creeping bentgrass in water limiting environments.
Options for Flight Testing Rocket-Based Combined-Cycle (RBCC) Engines

While NASA's current next-generation launch vehicle research has largely focused on advanced all-rocket single-stage-to-orbit vehicles (i.e. the X-33 and it's RLV operational follow-on), some attention is being given to advanced propulsion concepts suitable for 'next-generation-and-a-half' vehicles. Rocket-based combined-cycle (RBCC) engines combining rocket and airbreathing elements are one candidate concept. Preliminary RBCC engine development was undertaken by the United States in the 1960's. However, additional ground and flight research is required to bring the engine to technological maturity. This paper presents two options for flight testing early versions of the RBCC ejector scramjet engine. The first option mounts a single RBCC engine module to the X-34 air-launched technology testbed for test flights up to about Mach 6.4. The second option links RBCC engine testing to the simultaneous development of a small-payload (220 lb.) two-stage-to-orbit operational vehicle in the Bantam payload class. This launcher/testbed concept has been dubbed the W vehicle. The W vehicle can also serve as an early ejector ramjet RBCC launcher (albeit at a lower payload). To complement current RBCC ground testing efforts, both flight test engines will use earth-storable propellants for their RBCC rocket primaries and hydrocarbon fuel for their airbreathing modes. Performance and vehicle sizing results are presented for both options.
Conflict between values and technology: perceptions of preimplantation genetic diagnosis among women at increased risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

Members of families affected by hereditary cancer are often concerned about passing on risk to offspring. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is a procedure performed to identify embryos that inherit mutations placing them at risk for hereditary conditions. Little is known about attitudes toward the use of this technology among individuals at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. We sought to determine high risk women’s attitudes. This study is a qualitative examination of comments from women who participated in an online survey regarding knowledge and attitudes of preimplantation genetic diagnosis among individuals affected by hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. More than half the respondents held less favorable attitudes about the use of preimplantation genetic diagnosis for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer for both themselves and others. However, among the women who felt favorable about its usage, the majority said it became a new option for them to pursue parenthood whereas previously they had opted to not have a biological child. The high percentage of respondents who have never heard of preimplantation genetic diagnosis and who were in favor of this technology for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer indicates the need for educational campaigns to increase awareness and provide information about the procedure, access and affordability. Further research is needed to determine how this population would like this information presented to them and how best to instruct health care professionals to present this topic to women who do not know to ask about it.
The failure of a boundary layer model to describe certain cases of cellular convection

Abstract A model has been developed to describe the two-dimensional cellular motion of a viscous fluid with Prandtl number of order unity heated from below at high Rayleigh number. This model is easily adapted to describe such flow for infinite Prandtl number provided all boundaries are free. It has been suggested that a good approximation to the physical problem of flow between rigid horizontal boundaries will be obtained by setting the Prandtl number equal to infinity, thus ignoring the momentum convection. Similar cellular motion occurs in flow in a porous medium at high Rayleigh numbers and a similar model has been proposed to describe this motion. The basic features of the model are outlined and it is shown that the model fails to describe either the motion of an infinite Prandtl number fluid between parallel rigid boundaries or fluid in a porous medium. An analysis of the model for large finite Prandtl number and large Rayleigh number shows that as the Prandtl number is increased the velocity boundary layers on the rigid horizontal boundaries thicken, and eventually fill the cell, thus losing their boundary layer identity and causing the breakdown of the model.
Clinicopathologic Features and Treatment Outcomes in Cronkhite–Canada Syndrome: Support for Autoimmunity

Cronkhite–Canada syndrome (CCS) is a noninherited condition, associated with high morbidity, and characterized by gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyposis, alopecia, onychodystrophy, hyperpigmentation, and diarrhea. All features may respond to immunosuppressive therapy, but little is known about the etiology. An autoimmune origin has been suggested but not proved. From a retrospectively selected cohort, we evaluated clinicopathologic features, including immunostaining for IgG4 (an antibody associated with autoimmunity), and therapeutic outcomes in a cohort of CCS patients to provide further insights into this disease. Cases included 14 consecutive CCS patients seen at the Mayo Clinic on whom tissue and follow-up were available. All histology was reviewed by an expert gastrointestinal pathologist. Immunostaining for IgG4 was performed on 42 polyps from CCS cases and on control tissues, including 46 histologically similar hamartomas [from juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS)] and 20 normal mucosae (six stomach, three small bowel, and 11 colon). Clinical features and treatment outcomes were descriptive. All CCS cases had both upper and lower gastrointestinal polyps; most had typical dermatologic features of alopecia, hyperpigmentation, and onychodystrophy; and most had evidence of protein-losing enteropathy. Ten patients (71%) had adenomatous polyps and 2 (14%) had colorectal cancer. IgG4 immunostaining was positive (>5 cells/HPF) in 52% of CCS polyps compared to 12% of JPS polyps (P = 0.001); IgG4 staining was negative in all other control tissues. Of 11 CCS patients treated with oral corticosteroids, 91% achieved remission. Relapse was common with steroid tapering. Five patients who initially responded to corticosteroids were maintained in remission on azathioprine (2 mg/kg/day) with no relapse after a median of 4.5 years. Immunostaining for the autoimmune-related IgG4 antibody is significantly increased in CCS polyps compared to disease and normal control tissues. Furthermore, immunosuppression by corticosteroids or long-term azathioprine may eradicate or lessen manifestations of CCS. These histologic findings and treatment responses are consistent with an autoimmune mechanism underlying CCS.
Adolescent and Adult Male Spontaneous Hyperactive Rats (SHR) Respond Differently to Acute and Chronic Methylphenidate (Ritalin)

Eight groups of male adolescent and adult spontaneous hyperactive rats (SHR) were used in a dose response (saline, 0.6, 2.5, and 10 mg/kg) experiment of methylphenidate (MPD). Four different locomotor indices were recorded for 2 hours postinjection using a computerized monitoring system. Acutely, the 0.6 mg/kg dose of MPD did not elicit an increase in locomotor activity in either the adolescent or in the adult male SHR. The 2.5 and the 10.0 mg/kg doses increased activity in the adolescent and the adult rats. Chronically, MPD treatment when comparing adolescent and adult gave the following results: the 0.6 mg/kg dose of MPD failed to cause sensitization in the adolescent group but caused sensitization in the adult group, while the 2.5 and 10 mg/kg both caused sensitization in the adolescent and adult groups.
Opening the pore hinges on proline.

Neurotransmitter binding to a member of the Cys-loop receptor superfamily elicits opening of an ion channel by inducing a change in the configuration of a prolyl imide bond. Engineering a series of mutant receptors to contain proline analogues with a range of cis/trans preferences demonstrates the molecular basis for channel gating.
Racial differences in chronic kidney disease incidence and progression among individuals with HIV.

This Practice Point commentary discusses the findings of Lucas et al.'s longitudinal cohort study of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in African American and white individuals with HIV. The study found that—compared with whites—African Americans had a slightly increased risk of incident CKD, but markedly increased rates of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline and progression to end-stage renal disease. This commentary details the clinical implications and limitations of these findings in the context of known racial differences in CKD prevalence and progression to end-stage renal disease in the general population and highlights the importance of screening high-risk HIV patients for kidney disease. CKD is common among HIV patients, and—as in the general population—has a more-aggressive course among African Americans than whites.
Hyperion: Rotational Dynamics

Abstract We have numerically integrated the full three dimensional rotation of Hyperion using as initial conditions the moments of inertia, pole position, and spin rate from a solution based on fitting control points, limb, and terminator positions in high-resolution Voyager 2 images (P. C. Thomas et al. 1995, Icarus ). These images were taken over a 38-hr period and cover ∼114° of rotation. From this solution, it is found that at the time of the Voyager 2 encounter (23 August 1981) the instantaneous spin axis was tilted ∼60° from the orbit normal and was roughly aligned with the axis of minimum moment of inertia. In addition, the instantaneous spin rate is found to have been 72°+3-4 per day, or about 4.2 times the synchronous rate. The integrated dynamical model using this solution provides an excellent fit to the lightcurve obtained from earlier low resolution Voyager 2 images, whereas a fit assuming a constant rotation pole and spin rate clearly does not. The largest amplitude component in the lightcurve is due to the free precession (wobble) rather than to the rotation itself. Previous work by J. Wisdom, S. J. Peale, and F. Mignard (1984, Icarus 58, 137-152) showed that it was likely that Hyperion would be in a chaotically tumbling state, and groundbased observations by J. J. Klavetter (1989, Astron. J. 97, 570-579; 98, 1855-1874) in 1987 could not be explained by any simply periodic rotation and are consistent with a chaotic state. Although Hyperion's rotation state is indeed formally chaotic, with the shortest Lyapunov time on the order of the orbital period or less (J. Wisdom et al. 1984, Astron. J. 94, 1350-1360), the short-term motion of the spin axis in 1981 appears "quasi-regular," undergoing forced precession with a period of ∼300 days and wobbling with a period of ∼7 days. Our integrations show that the unusual spin state seen by Voyager 2 can persist for several thousand years, although the chaotic nature of the motion limits the predictability of our model to less than 1 year. Longer integrations indicate that rapid spin states such as that observed by Voyager are a natural consequence of the chaotic motion and are easily reached by states initially in or near the synchronous spin-orbit state. There is thus no need to invoke a recent event, i.e. a large impact, to produce the observed state.
Proton distributions from S32(n, p)P32

Abstract Energy spectra of protons from natural sulfur bombarded with 14 MeV neutrons are shown at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, obtained with a CsI scintillation spectrometer in coincidence with two particle-defining proportional counters. The observed characteristics are those of direct interaction, and the total energy spectrum is well fitted by the level density formula of Newton. The energy discrimination interval being broad but fairly sharp at its extremes, energy groups are not resolved but angular distributions for successive spectral intervals show marked changes at certain energies. From these abrupt changes and the known resolution characteristics the strongest contributing levels in P32 are located and assigned l values. The levels so deduced match the strongest contributors to (d, p) and (n, γ) processes leading to P32 and fit quantitatively the expected pattern of single particle transitions. Evidence is found of participation of protons from two initial states as expected, so that three final neutron levels account for five distribution components. All single particle excitations appear in the sequence expected except 2 p 3 2 (neutron), which seems to occur before 1 f 7 2 . Integration of the spectra gives a mean “nuclear temperature” of 2.1 MeV and a cross section of 185±30 mb for the first 9.5 MeV of residual excitation.
Positive transfer of familiarization training to recognition performance: Effects of stimulus complexity and association value

Effects of complexity and association value of random shapes on the amount of transfer from stimulus familiarization training to a later recognition task were examined. Familiarization training resulted in strong positive transfer effects to later recognition performance. Increases in stimulus complexity were associated with increases in recognition performance only when familiarization training was administered. It was suggested that increases in stimulus complexity provide more usable stimulus information for recognition but that such information is only effectively utilized by S for recognition when familiarization training is provided.
Slash pine and understory interception of micronutrients mineralized from sewage sludge applied to a sandy, acidic forest soil

Abstract Sewage sludges vary widely in heavy-metal micronutrients which may persist in soils amended with such elements. In this study, an industrially-enriched municipal sewage sludge was applied to an acid (pH 64 cm). Of the metals remaining in the Oi horizon, Cd and Zn still have some quantity 3n an exchangeable form that is affected by sludge rate. Interception and retention of the metals in the pine overstory or palmetto/gallberry was negligible for Cd, Cr, and Cu, and estimated to be about 5% for Zn.
Effects of temperature on performance of a compressible magnetorheological fluid damper-liquid spring suspension system

A compact compressible magnetorheological (MR) fluid damper-liquid spring (CMRFD-LS) suspension system is designed, developed and tested. The performances of the CMRFD-LS are investigated under room temperature. However, MR fluids are temperature dependent. The effect of temperature is observed in both the viscosity and the compressibility of the MR fluid. This study is to experimentally determine how temperature affects the performance of a CMRFD-LS device. A test setup is developed to measure the stiffness and energy dissipated by the system under various frequency loadings, magnetic fields and temperatures. The experimental results demonstrate that both the stiffness and the energy dissipated by the CMRFD-LS are inversely related to the temperature of the MR fluid. These changes in damper characteristics show that the compressibility of MR fluid is proportional to the fluid temperature, while the viscosity of the MR fluid is inversely related to the fluid temperature.
The Effects of Liquid Compressibility on the Nucleation and Growth of Bubbles in Forced Convective Flow Boiling Within Microchannels

Forced convective flow boiling in microchannels is characterized by the nucleation and rapid growth of vapor bubbles in confined geometries. Experimental studies of these flows have been limited to the measurement of wall temperature, inlet liquid velocity, inlet and outlet pressures, and high speed imaging forcing analysts to infer the conditions inside the channel from measured external values. The present study examines the evolution of the pressure field during bubble growth prior to bubble departure using a one-dimensional fully compressible Lagrangian-Eulerian model. Numerical results for a single bubble growing from a nucleation site for both constant pressure and constant volumetric flow rate conditions demonstrate the magnitude of the pressures generated and bound the magnitude of the reflected pulses from the channel ends. The reflected pulses can locally decrease the pressure in the channel below the levels predicted by incompressible models. Additional simulations predict nucleation and growth of bubbles at sites that would be inactive if liquid compressibility is neglected. The results indicate the acoustic characteristics of microchannels for flow boiling can not be neglected and will be important in the optimization of microchannel designs.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Screening of high risk infants for metabolic disease in a metropolitan hospital.

Screening of symptomatic infants for metabolic diseases is described which led to an improved detection rate because of better awareness and case selection, as well as the use of a test for urinary organic acids.
A wavelet transform approach for hierarchical texture segmentation

An algorithm that uses both the tree-structured wavelet transform and a multiscale node linking technique for hierarchical texture segmentation is developed. The tree-structured wavelet transform, which offers a nonredundant representation, is able to zoom into dominant frequency channels containing significant information of textures and can be interpreted as the decomposition of a 2-D function with the wavelet packet basis function. Based on the tree-structure wavelet representation, a fuzzy clustering algorithm is then used to implement the multiscale node linking. Numerical experiments are given to demonstrate the performance of the new algorithm. >
Synchrotron facilities and the study of the Earth's deep interior

The combination of synchrotron x-ray facilities with high-pressure methods provides new experimental tools for addressing geophysical problems relevant to understanding the interior of the Earth and other planets. Among the important geophysical questions related to the Earth’s silicate mantle are the origin of seismic discontinuities in the upper mantle, the rheological properties of mantle minerals and their influence on dynamic flow in the Earth, and the nature of the core–mantle boundary region. In the case of the Earth’s core, key questions are centred on the identity of the light elements of the core and their effect on energetics and thermodynamic properties, the melting curve of iron and its alloys and the origin of seismic anisotropy in the inner core. Both new and established high-pressure synchrotron methods applied to the diamond anvil cell and large-volume apparatus are surveyed. Advances in synchrotron capabilities have been accompanied by new innovations in high-pressure technology. X-ray diffraction techniques are mature but continued improvements are leading to expanded pressure–temperature coverage and better ability to recover crystallographic details. Diffraction and absorption studies of the properties of liquids of silicate and iron alloy composition have expanded in response to new capabilities. Recently, methods for inelastic scattering and nuclear resonance probes have been developed at high pressures and these provide constraints on vibrational, electronic and magnetic properties, which were previously unattainable. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)