cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nano-bridging: a massively parallel self-assembly technique for interconnecting nanowire sensors

Enormous manufacturing cost and technical complexity of continued shrinking of electronic devices through the conventional transformative "top-down" approach have motivated efforts worldwide to explore simpler alternatives. New nano-scale assembly technology, such as catalyzed or self-assembled growth of nanowires and quantum dots, may enormously benefit integrated circuit fabrication technique methods. In the recent past, semiconductor nanowire devices have exhibited many novel electronic, optical and chemical properties. Despite a significant progress in nanowire synthesis and many promising single device demonstrations, nanowire applications have been hindered by our incapability to incorporate them within ICs. Several research groups have demonstrated an approach of serially connecting metal electrodes to individual nanowires using costly and slow e-beam lithography and made considerable investigations of the nanowire devices. However, none of those are massively parallel and manufacturable interfacing techniques that are crucial for reproducible fabrication of dense, low-cost nanodevices. In this paper, we present a novel bridging techniques that can connect a large number of highly directional metal-catalyzed nanowire devices between two pre-fabricated electrodes. Two opposing vertical and electrically isolated semiconductor surfaces are fabricated using coarse optical lithography along with wet and dry etching. Lateral nanowires are then grown from one surface and epitaxially connected to the other, forming mechanically robust "nano-bridges". By forming the structure on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate, the needed electrical isolation is achieved. The bridges are found to be mechanically robust and can resist significant force and chemical attacks. The technique, for the first time, can help access individual nanowire devices without using a nanoprobe or expensive lithography techniques. Using this novel bridging technique, novel nano-electronic and photonic devices can be designed and integrated with conventional circuits. The results will open doors to unprecedented device-density in integrated circuits, eventually making the nanowire based devices a commercial reality.
Comparison of three-dimensional surface rendering techniques

To make use of the three-dimensional information contained in a series of computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) slices, one must either mentally reconstruct the data or generate a model using a computer display. Computer-aided rendering of a three- dimensional surface allows inspection of the model from different angles. Creation of a three- dimensional model in wireframe or shaded surface format from tomographic slices requires identification of points along the surface of interest in each slice. This task can be accomplished (1) by manually outlining the surface in the images, or (2) by a computer algorithm designed to produce points along the surface of interest. In dealing with image sets of the head, objects outside the head (e.g., support structures, stereotactic frames, and noise) complicate the automatic detection of the perimeter of the head. This paper examines three methods of automatic wireframe generation from CT or MR slices of the head. The three approaches are based on the following techniques: traditional edge detection filters, neural networks, and thresholding combined with region connectivity analysis and region elimination. Results of the three approaches are presented along with a comparison of the relative advantages and disadvantages of each.
Logisnet: A tool for multimethod, multiple soil layers slope stability analysis

Shallow landslides and slope failures have been studied from several points of view (inventory, heuristic, statistic, and deterministic). In particular, numerous methods embedded in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications have been developed to assess slope stability. However, little work has been done on the systematic comparison of different techniques and the incorporation of vertical contrasts of geotechnical properties in multiple soil layers. In this research, stability is modeled by using LOGISNET, an acronym for Multiple Logistic Regression, Geographic Information System, and Neural Network. The main purpose of LOGISNET is to provide government planners and decision makers a tool to assess landslide susceptibility. The system is fully operational for models handling an enhanced cartographic-hydrologic model (SINMAP) and multiple logistic regression. The enhanced implementation of SINMAP was tested at regional scale in the Highway 101 corridor in Del Norte County, California, and its susceptibility map was found to have improved factor of safety estimates based on comparison with landslide inventory maps. The enhanced SINMAP and multiple logistic regression subsystems have functions that allow the user to include vertical variation in geotechnical properties through summation of forces in specific soil layers acting on failure planes for a local or regional-scale mapping. The working group of LOGISNET foresees the development of an integrated tool system to handle and support the prognostic studies of slope instability, and communicate the results to the public through maps.
Does interference competition with wolves limit the distribution and abundance of coyotes

Summary 1 Interference competition with wolves Canis lupus is hypothesized to limit the distribution and abundance of coyotes Canis latrans, and the extirpation of wolves is often invoked to explain the expansion in coyote range throughout much of North America. 2 We used spatial, seasonal and temporal heterogeneity in wolf distribution and abundance to test the hypothesis that interference competition with wolves limits the distribution and abundance of coyotes. From August 2001 to August 2004, we gathered data on cause-specific mortality and survival rates of coyotes captured at wolf-free and wolf-abundant sites in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), Wyoming, USA, to determine whether mortality due to wolves is sufficient to reduce coyote densities. We examined whether spatial segregation limits the local distribution of coyotes by evaluating home-range overlap between resident coyotes and wolves, and by contrasting dispersal rates of transient coyotes captured in wolf-free and wolf-abundant areas. Finally, we analysed data on population densities of both species at three study areas across the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) to determine whether an inverse relationship exists between coyote and wolf densities. 3 Although coyotes were the numerically dominant predator, across the GYE, densities varied spatially and temporally in accordance with wolf abundance. Mean coyote densities were 33% lower at wolf-abundant sites in GTNP, and densities declined 39% in Yellowstone National Park following wolf reintroduction. 4 A strong negative relationship between coyote and wolf densities (β = –3·988, P < 0·005, r2 = 0·54, n = 16), both within and across study sites, supports the hypothesis that competition with wolves limits coyote populations. 5 Overall mortality of coyotes resulting from wolf predation was low, but wolves were responsible for 56% of transient coyote deaths (n = 5). In addition, dispersal rates of transient coyotes captured at wolf-abundant sites were 117% higher than for transients captured in wolf-free areas. 6 Our results support the hypothesis that coyote abundance is limited by competition with wolves, and suggest that differential effects on survival and dispersal rates of transient coyotes are important mechanisms by which wolves reduce coyote densities.
Myxedema: Record of an Autopsied Case with Special Emphasis upon Lesions of Muscles

CONSDERING the widespread interest in myxedema, the general pathological picture has been little understood. In the report on myxedema published by the London Clinical Society in 1888, a series of 20 autopsies was recorded (1). The report was chiefly concerned with the structural changes in the thyroid gland itself and in the pathology of skin and subcutaneous tissues. It was remarked, however, that interstitial changes in the internal organs were not infrequent. Especially emphasized were features closely resembling an interstitial nephritis which the committee was unwilling to regard as a consequence of hypothyroidism. The heart, examined in 9 of the 20 cases, was considered abnormal in only 2, one of which exhibited an early stage of interstitial myocarditis and the other a comparatively advanced stage of the same process. Some thickening of the adventitia of arterioles was also noted. Since 1891, when Murray discovered that myxedema could be cured by the use of thyroid, autopsies have been infrequent ...
The effects of training and position on judges' ratings of a gymnastic event.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of training and position on judges' ratings of a gymnastic event. Twenty-four women judged the performance of the squat vault by 40 college women. The judges were divided into four groups. Two groups received written training, and two groups, extensive training. After completing their training, one written group and one extensive group viewed the performances from the side of the vaulting box; the other two groups viewed from the front of the vaulting box. Judge position and judge training were found to have significant effects upon judges' ratings. Significantly lower ratings were given by the judges who viewed the vault from the front and had received extensive training.
Dynamic response of corrugated sandwich steel plates with graded cores

Abstract This paper addresses the dynamic response of sandwich steel plates with three kinds of corrugated core arrangements consisting of identical core density subjected to dynamic air pressure loads. The corrugated sandwich steel plate consists of top and bottom flat substrates of Steel 1018 and corrugated core layers of Steel 1008. The corrugated core layers are arranged with uniform and non-uniform thicknesses. The stress-strain relations of Steel 1018 at high strain rates are measured using the Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar. For dynamic finite element analyses, both carbon steels are assumed to follow bilinear strain hardening and strain rate-dependence. The developed finite element model is validated with a set of shock tube experiments, making it feasible for a parametric design study. Three corrugated core arrangements are taken into consideration for optimizing core design parameters in order to maximize mitigation of blast load effects onto the structure.
Dialog on a country path: The qualitative research journey

Summary There is little information in the literature describing how students learn qualitative research. This article describes an approach to learning that is based on the pedagogical approach of Dinkins' Socratic–Hermeneutic Shared Inquiry. This approach integrates shared dialog as an essential aspect of learning. The qualitative pedagogy described in this article focused on three questions: What is knowing in qualitative research? How do we come to know qualitative research? What can we do with qualitative research? Students learned the basics of qualitative research within a context that fostered interpretive inquiry. In this way, the course framework mirrored the combination of interviewing, storytelling, and journeying toward understanding that constitute qualitative research.
Pyrolysis of lignin extracted from prairie cordgrass, aspen, and Kraft lignin by Py-GC/MS and TGA/FTIR

Abstract A study is undertaken to assess the effectiveness of lignin extracted from prairie cordgrass as a pyrolysis feedstock. The effects of variability of lignin source on fast and slow pyrolysis products are also investigated. To accomplish these goals, Py-GC/MS and TGA/FTIR are employed in the pyrolysis of three types of lignin: prairie cordgrass (PCG) lignin extracted from prairie cordgrass, aspen lignin extracted from aspen trees (hardwood), and synthetic Kraft lignin. Fast pyrolysis results from Py-GC/MS show that for PCG lignin, only ten of the detected compounds have relative peak area percentiles that exceed 2% and make up over 52% of the total area. For aspen lignin, excluding butanol that is used in the extraction process, only eight compounds are found to have relative peak areas exceeding 2% that make up over 52% of the total area. For Kraft lignin, only eight compounds exceeding 2% are found to make up more than 45% of the total area. Both techniques, Py-GC/MS and TGA/FTIR, indicate that PCG lignin releases more alkyls than aspen and Kraft lignin. TGA/FTIR results indicate that PCG lignin also releases by far the most light volatile products (
CORONARY CALCIUM DENSITY AND INCIDENT CORONARY HEART DISEASE AMONG THOSE WITH DIABETES OR THE METABOLIC SYNDROME: THE MULTIETHNIC STUDY OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS (MESA)

Author(s): Zhao, Yanglu | Advisor(s): Malik, Shaista | Abstract: Background: Coronary calcium density was recently found to be inversely associated with incident coronary heart disease (CHD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. Not known is whether this relationship may differ in those with diabetes (DM) or the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: We included 3,826 participants aged 45-84 years from The Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) with a non-zero Agatston score and classified them as DM (18%), MetS without DM (29%) or neither condition (53%). The relation of density scores and volume scores with incident CHD and CVD events were examined stratified by statin use.Results: During a 9.7-year mean follow-up, 67 (10%), 79 (7%), 102 (5%) CHD events happened among those with DM, MetS, or neither condition. The inverse relation between density score and CHD incidence appeared stronger in non-statin users among those with DM (hazard ratio: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.24-1.11) and those with MetS (HR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.34-0.78). The 4th quartile of density score in those with MetS had a 73% lower CHD risk (pl0.01) than those in the 1st quartile compared to 36% (p=0.37) and 24% (p=0.56) for those with DM or neither disease. Conclusion: Density score is inversely related to CHD in MetS population and those with neither DM nor MetS. In MetS or DM population this inverse relationship appears strongest in those not on statins, suggesting statin use may attenuate the association between plaque density and incident CHD events.
Recruitment is never enough: retention of women and minorities in the IT workplace

Women, as well as African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans are represented in the information technology (IT) workforce in percentages that are far lower than their percentages in the population as a whole. While recruiting efforts are crucial for increasing the participation of women and minorities, it is equally important that we retain those already in the IT workforce. Here we present an assessment of the relevant literature addressing retention issues for women and minorities. Some issues that arise from this literature can be applied directly to changes that must take place in the IT workplace such as; the development of gender/race/ethnic appropriate mentors, sponsors or role models in the work environment, the development of involvement of the family and/or community in support of the work environment, the development of a nurturing work environment to offset internalized out-group status, the development of a truly multicultural work environment that values gender/race/ethnic differences, the development of recognition of and assistance with stress from financial issues and social/family obligations, and the eradication of institutional practices that marginalize women and minorities. There is a need to deepen our understanding of retention issues for women and minorities in order to inform intervention strategies. This work addresses this need by providing an in-depth examination of factors affecting attraction, development and especially retention of minorities and women in IS.
A Mathematical Model Predicting Heat Transfer Performance in a Oscillating Heat Pipe

A mathematical model predicting the oscillating motion in an oscillating heat pipe is developed. The model considers the vapor bubble as the gas spring for the oscillating motions including effects of operating temperature, non-linear vapor bulk modulus, and temperature difference between the evaporator and the condenser. Combining the oscillating motion predicted by the model, a mathematical model predicting the temperature drop between the evaporator and the condenser is developed including the effects of the forced convection heat transfer due to the oscillating motion, the confined evaporating heat transfer in the evaporating section, and the thin film condensation in the condensing section. In order to verify the mathematical model, an experimental investigation was conducted. Experimental results indicate that there exists an onset power input for the excitation of oscillating motions in an oscillating heat pipe, i.e., when the input power or the temperature difference from the evaporating section to the condensing section was higher than this onset value the oscillating motion started, resulting in an enhancement of the heat transfer in the pulsating heat pipe. Results of the investigation will assist in optimizing the heat transfer performance and provide a better understanding of heat transfer mechanisms occurring in the oscillating heat pipe.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Microsatellite loci in wild-type and inbred Strongylocentrotus purpuratus.

Strongylocentrotus purpuratus,a major research model in developmental molecular biology, has been inbred through six generations of sibling matings. Though viability initially decreased, as described earlier, the inbred line now consists of healthy, fertile animals. These are intended to serve as a genomic resource in which the level of polymorphism is decreased with respect to wildS. purpuratus.To genotype the inbred animals eight simple sequence genomic repeats were isolated, in context, and PCR primers were generated against the flanking single-copy sequences. Distribution and polymorphism of these regions of the genome were studied in the genomes of 27 wild individuals and in a sample of the inbred animals at F2 and F3 generations. All eight regions were polymorphic, though to different extents, and their homozygosity was increased by inbreeding as expected. The eight markers suffice to identify unambiguously the cellular DNA of any wild or F3S. purpuratus individual.
3D/BIELA AND THE ANDROMEDIDS: FRAGMENTING VERSUS SUBLIMATING COMETS

Comet 3D/Biela broke up in 1842/1843 and continued to disintegrate in the returns of 1846 and 1852. When meteor storms were observed in November of 1872 and 1885, it was surmised that those showers were the debris from that breakup. This could have come from one of two sources: (1) the initial separation of fragments near aphelion or (2) the continued disintegration of the fragments afterward. Alternatively, the meteoroids could simply have come from water vapor drag when the fragments approached perihelion (option 3). We investigated the source of the Andromedid storms by calculating the dynamical evolution of dust ejected in a normal manner by water vapor drag in the returns from 1703 to 1866, assuming that the comet would have remained similarly active over each return. In addition, we simulated the isotropic ejection of dust during the initial fragmentation event at aphelion in December of 1842. We conclude that option 2 is the most likely source of meteoroids encountered during the 1872 and 1885 storms, but this accounts for only a relatively small amount of mass lost in a typical comet breakup.
Hypothesis II: Tourette's Syndrome Is Part of a Clinical Spectrum That Includes Normal Brain Development

Several lines of evidence suggest that the typically associated clinical features of Tourette's syndrome (TS), ie, tics, obsessive-compulsive behavior, inattention, and hyperactivity, commonly occur during childhood development. I hypothesize that TS is expressed in children as a clinical spectrum that includes a range of increasing functional impairment, indicating various degrees of abnormality in basal ganglia development. The mildest form, "developmental" TS, includes largely asymptomatic features and is estimated to occur in at least 3% of all children. Further along the spectrum are children with mild to moderate TS, who have school and behavioral problems; up to 25% of children requiring special education may be classified within this group. At the extreme end of the spectrum is the smallest group, patients with "full-blown" TS, characterized by more severe and often disabling symptoms. I propose that genetic influences are most important in determining the severity of TS along the clinical spectrum but that environmental factors may play a role. This hypothesis has implications for the understanding and treatment of childhood school and behavioral problems and the search for the TS genetic defect.
Degrees of Distance between Teachers and Parents in Urban France.

This article explores the gulf between elementary teachers and parents in different neighborhoods of one French city as indicated by the teachers' criticisms of parents. While these teachers saw all parents as “natural enemies” to the extent that no parent was immune from criticism, the teachers criticized different categories of parents differently. Role conflict, class conflict, local history, and the need to blame school failure on someone all contributed to the teachers' complex perception of parents.
Cooperation by Sterol Regulatory Element-binding Protein and Sp1 in Sterol Regulation of Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor Gene

Regulation of the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor promoter by cholesterol requires a well defined sterol regulatory site and an adjacent binding site for the universal transcription factor Sp1. These elements are located in repeats 2 and 3 of the wild type promoter, respectively. The experiments reported here demonstrate that Sp1 participates in sterol regulation of the LDL receptor in an orientation-specific fashion. We present data which suggest that sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) increases the binding of Sp1 to the adjacent repeat 3 sequence. We also demonstrate that SREBP and Sp1 synergistically activate expression from the LDL receptor promoter inside the cell by co-transfecting expression vectors encoding each protein into Drosophila tissue culture cells that are devoid of endogenous Sp1. In addition, other transcription factor sites were unable to substitute for Sp1 in sterol regulation when placed next to the SREBP-binding site. These studies together with recent data from others provide the basis of a working model for sterol regulation of the LDL receptor promoter. The presence of Sp1 sites in several other regulated promoters suggests that this universal transcription factor has been recruited to participate in many regulatory responses possibly by a similar mechanism.
The dynamics of social organization in a population of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) in a seminatural environment

A population of about 200 squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) living in a seminatural environment at the Monkey Jungle in Goulds, Florida, were studied to determine the composition of the population and the basic pattern of its social structure. The social associations of 95 tagged individuals were recorded over a period of three years to determine the basic social organization of the population. The monkeys lived in one group of male juveniles and three female-centered groups with peripheral male subgroups. In spite of the homogeneity of the environment, the groups utilized different foraging strategies which was reflected in differences in the mean weight of adult females. Although females changed subgroup affiliation, they remained within the same large group. Males, however, rarely changed subgroups, but the subgroups frequently changed their group affiliation.
More anomalies from the Allende meteorite - Samarium

The isotopic composition of Sm has been measured in the Allende inclusions Cl and EK1-4-1. These inclusions were previously shown to have isotopic anomalies for the elements O, Mg, Ca, Ba and Nd. Sample Cl has a normal Sm isotopic composition except for the “p-process” isotope ^(144)Sm, which has an excess of 15±5 parts in 10^4. Sample EK1-4-1 was found to have Sm with a highly aberrant composition, indicating excess at all unshielded isotopes and an excess at ^(144)Sm. These data confirm the previous evidence for an addition of “r-process” isotopes to this material and also indicate an addition to the “p-process” isotope ^(144)Sm. From the observations on Cl it is inferred that the “p-process” addition is decoupled from the “r-process” addition.
Electron density and two-channel neutron emission measurements in steady-state spherical inertial-electrostatically confined plasmas, with review of the one-dimensional kinetic model

Electron density measurements have been made in steady-state plasmas in a spherical inertial electrostatic confinement (IEC) discharge using microwave interferometry. Plasma cores interior to two cathodes, having diameters of 15 and 23 cm, respectively, were probed over a transverse range of 10 cm with a spatial resolution of about 1.4 cm for buffer gas pressures from 0.2 to 6 Pa in argon and deuterium. The transverse profiles are generally flat, in some cases with eccentric symmetric minima, and give mean densities of from approx. = 0.4 to 7x 10(exp 10)/cu cm, the density generally increasing with the neutral gas pressure. Numerical solutions of the 1-D Poisson equation for EC plasmas are reviewed and energy distribution functions are identified which give flat transverse profiles. These functions are used with the plasma approximation to obtain solutions which also give densities consistent with the measurements, and a double potential well solution is obtained which has minima qualitatively similar to those observed. Explicit consideration is given to the compatibility of the solutions interior and exterior to the cathode, and to grid transparency. Deuterium fusion neutron emission rates were also measured and found to be isotropic, to within the measurement error, over two simultaneous directions. Anisotropy was observed in residual emissions during operation with non-fusing hydrogen-1. The deuterium rates are consistent with predictions from the model.
On the origins of megakaryocytes

[Comment on Tober et al, page 1433, and][1][Ghinassi et al, page 1460][2]Megakaryocytes and erythroid cells share a common precursor, the megakaryocyte/erythroid progenitor (MEP). Two reports in this issue of Blood provide new insights into megakaryocyte ontogeny and the plasticity of MEPs. Shortly
Intercorrelations of attitudes, personality, and sex role orientation in a college sample

Abstract Four hundred and eleven college students were administered the Comrey Radicalness- Conservatism Scale, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ) and the Bem Sex-Role Inventory (BSRI). With the exception of a positive correlation of psychoticism with radicalness among females, personality and masculinity/femininity were not significantly related to social attitudes. Several significant correlations were found between the EPQ and BSRI scales.
Using GIS in Agricultural Land Assessment for Property Taxes

Abstract This study illustrates the application of range productivity models across a broad spatial scale. A series of relevant data layers for these range models were constructed using photo-interpretation and digital elevation models. A geographic information system was used to merge the data layers to evaluate total livestock carrying capacity for individual land parcels. This approach has application for county tax assessors interested in a scientific basis for appraising rural land values. The study was carried out in the foothills of California's San Joaquin Valley in response to policy concerns raised about the implementation of the California Land Conservation Act, a property tax system designed to conserve agricultural and open space values.
Replication of TCF4 through Association and Linkage Studies in Late-Onset Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a common, late-onset disorder of the corneal endothelium. Although progress has been made in understanding the genetic basis of FECD by studying large families in which the phenotype is transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion, a recently reported genome-wide association study identified common alleles at a locus on chromosome 18 near TCF4 which confer susceptibility to FECD. Here, we report the findings of our independent validation study for TCF4 using the largest FECD dataset to date (450 FECD cases and 340 normal controls). Logistic regression with sex as a covariate was performed for three genetic models: dominant (DOM), additive (ADD), and recessive (REC). We found significant association with rs613872, the target marker reported by Baratz et al.(2010), for all three genetic models (DOM: P = 9.33×10−35; ADD: P = 7.48×10−30; REC: P = 5.27×10−6). To strengthen the association study, we also conducted a genome-wide linkage scan on 64 multiplex families, composed primarily of affected sibling pairs (ASPs), using both parametric and non-parametric two-point and multipoint analyses. The most significant linkage region localizes to chromosome 18 from 69.94cM to 85.29cM, with a peak multipoint HLOD = 2.5 at rs1145315 (75.58cM) under the DOM model, mapping 1.5 Mb proximal to rs613872. In summary, our study presents evidence to support the role of the intronic TCF4 single nucleotide polymorphism rs613872 in late-onset FECD through both association and linkage studies.
Examining CO2 concentrations and flow dynamics in streams

As part of the carbon cycle, carbon dioxide (CO2) is flushed from soils into stream water; this CO2 either escapes directly into the atmosphere from the water surface or gets transported downstream of the study site. To understand the amount and variability of both the carbon flushed from soils and the subsequent loss to the atmosphere, scientists first need to understand the variability in aquatic concentrations. Although previous studies have shown that CO2 concentrations vary considerably over time and are often linked to water discharge, measurements have primarily been based on low-frequency manual sampling rather than continuous monitoring, so much of the temporal pattern is lost.
Avant‐garde feminist cinema: Mulvey and wollen's riddles of the sphinx

(1979). Avant‐garde feminist cinema: Mulvey and wollen's riddles of the sphinx. Quarterly Review of Film Studies: Vol. 4, No. 2, pp. 135-144.
Potassium Channel Blockade Inhibits Shear Stress-Induced Pulmonary Vasodilation in the Ovine Fetus † 1752

Potassium Channel Blockade Inhibits Shear Stress-Induced Pulmonary Vasodilation in the Ovine Fetus † 1752
My first day at Peltier.

My shirt clings to my back, thanks to the unyielding sun, as I enter the front gate of Peltier General Hospital in the small east African country of Djibouti. My Navy deployment was supposed to keep me on ships as part of a mobile trauma team, but I find myself at a nearby US naval base, awaiting resupply and orders back out to sea. A surgeon and anesthesiologist stationed at the base go to Peltier on occasion to help out in the OR, and on hearing this I beg to come along. “Not a problem. Just bring a book and your iPod. We never know how busy it will be in the OR.” I follow their guidance, with a bag ready to keep me occupied, a set of scrubs to fit in, and why not, I’ll take the stethoscope. I’m eager to sneak out of the OR and catch a glimpse of emergency medicine in the horn of Africa, if given the chance. On my arrival, I’m warmly welcomed by the chief surgeon, trained in Morocco and with a fine grasp of English. They are just about to start an umbilical hernia repair, followed by a hydrocele. Nothing too exciting, but after 2 months at sea and a whole bunch of free time, it’s nice to see some medicine. My surgical colleagues get prepped to help out. I ask if he has the time for a little tour before he joins in and he gladly obliges. Knowing my background, he leads me first to their emergency department. On entering, we pass doors marked “Radiologie” and “Laboratoire” that are nonfunctional and awaiting equipment repairs. The main room has 8 cubicles for patients. I see 5 Djiboutian medical students huddled in the corner, sharing a French paperback medical text. I glance over to see them reviewing a chapter on cardiac rhythms. That book is the closest they’ll get to the topic as I realize there’s no ECG machine or even a monitor inside. I meet a pleasant physician currently running the ED. He’s a general physician from Djibouti. He speaks Somali; I speak English. He’s conversant in Spanish from his medical training in Cuba. My Spanish ended in tenth grade, but it beats my Somali, so Spanish it is. Introductions are made and the offer to spend some time in the ED is accepted. I look around and see bodies staring back at me. Not hostile, more of curiosity, of who this white guy with a big smile on his face is. All are thin with cracked lips and crusted eyes. Who are staff, patients, or family? I’m not sure. l
Optical activity of a nucleotide-sensitive tryptophan in myosin subfragment 1 during ATP hydrolysis

Abstract The xanthene probes 5′-iodoacetamido-fluorescein and -tetramethylrhodamine specifically modify skeletal muscle myosin subfragment 1 (S1) at the reactive thiol residue (SH1) and fully quench the fluorescence emission from tryptophan residue 510 (Trp510) in S1 (T.P. Burghardt and K. Ajtai, Biophys. Chem., 60 (1996) 119; K. Ajtai and T.P. Burghardt, Biochemistry, 34 (1995) 15943). The difference between the fluorescence intensity obtained from S1 and probe-modified S1 comes solely from Trp510 in chymotryptic S1, a protein fragment that contains five tryptophan residues. The rotary strength and quantum efficiency of Trp510 were measured using difference signals from fluorescence detected circular dichroism (FDCD) and fluorescence emission spectroscopy. These structure-sensitive signals indicate that the binding of nucleotide or nucleotide analogs to the active site of S1 causes structural changes in S1 at Trp510 and that a one-to-one correspondence exists between Trp510 conformation and transient states of myosin during contraction. The Trp510 rotary strength and quantum efficiency were interpreted structurally in terms of the indole side-chain conformation using model structures and established computational methods.
High-magnesian andesite from Mount Shasta: A product of magma mixing and contamination, not a primitive melt: COMMENT AND REPLY COMMENT

[Streck et al. (2007)][1] concluded that the high-magnesian andesite (HMA) from Mt. Shasta represents a mix of dacite, basalt, and underlying Trinity ophiolite. The authors present two mixing models calculated to reproduce the major element composition of the HMA (average of samples 85–41a–d; [
Histochemical Localization of Amines in Hydra and in the Sea Anemone

SEVERAL investigators utilizing chemical techniques have identified neuropharmacological substances within coelenterates. Welsh1,2 has presented evidence for the presence of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and a number of quaternary ammonium compounds in the sea anemone and Hydra; 5-HT occurring in greatest concentration within the tentacles and acontia. Methias et al.3,4 identified 5-HT, histamine and other amines in the sea anemone as well as in Physalia. This worker found the highest concentration of 5-HT in the cœelenteric tissues, including the acontia, with relatively low concentration in the tentacles. These compounds were discussed as possible agents responsible for the toxicity within nematocysts of sea anemone tentacles; however, the exact histological localization of the substances was not presented. The present investigation concerns the histochemical localization of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and 5-HT in Hydra and the sea anemone.
Neighborhood variations in the use of hospital emergency rooms for primary care.

Abstract The purpose of the paper is to analyze neighborhood variations in the use of emergency rooms (ERs) as settings for primary care within Oklahoma County, part of the Oklahoma City MSA. The location of patients taken from a sample of ER records in four large hospitals were aggregated to census tracts. Tract visition rates were estimated and related to the socio-economic character and the relative location of the tracts for two periods—‘physicians’ office hours' and ‘non-office hours’. The results show that for the city as a whole primary care use in emergency rooms is associated with the socio-economic status and relative location of a residential area. Tracts with lower socio-economic status have higher rates of emergency rooms use for primary care than those of higher status. This relationship is true both during physicians' office hours as well as during the times their offices are closed. When visitation rates are analyzed separately for individual hospitals, location rather than neighborhood socio-economic characteristics is paramount. It was concluded that while primary care visits to emergency rooms are higher in lower socio-economic status neighborhoods, and that this is a function of the more accessible location of emergency rooms to these neighborhoods as well as to socio-economic effects on use.
The performance and application of a multidimensional system for gas chromatography

We have previously described [1] the design of a simple heart-cuttings device based on the Deans' principle of remote pressure switching [2]. Since that time, further work has been conducted to refine the design of the heart-cutting device and to develop complementary backflushing and cryofocusing units. This paper describes the results obtained from an intensive evaluation of the three modules in various combinations and considers parameters critical to the practical application of multidimensional gas chromatography (MDGC).
Development of β-adrenergic receptor subsensitivity by antidepressants

CONSIDERABLE evidence exists that the tricyclic antidepressant drugs are selective inhibitors of monoamine uptake into monoaminergic nerve terminals1,2. These drugs also potentiate pharmacological responses to the monoamines in both the peripheral and central nervous systems3–6. These effects do not explain the discrepancy between the time-course of the biochemical and pharmacological responses which are elicited by these antidepressant drugs within minutes or hours and their clinical antidepressant action which requires treatment for weeks for efficacy to be reached. Furthermore, desipramine, an antidepressant drug, can potentiate neuronal responses to noradrenaline and dopamine in the caudate nucleus7, although it does not block the catecholamine uptake in this area of the brain1,2. Finally the antidepressant iprindole does not influence noradrenaline turnover8 or metabolism9,10 or its uptake into catecholaminergic neurones11, but is effective in potentiating the responses of single cortical and caudate neurones to monoamines12. Vetulani and his associates13 suggested that the therapeutic action of tricyclic antidepressants may be related to postsynaptic adaptive changes in the sensitivity of the noradrenergic adenylate cyclase receptor system rather than to acute presynaptic events. The purpose of the experiments described here was to explore the molecular basis for antidepressant-induced noradrenergic subsensitivity by examining the kinetic properties of the β-adrenergic receptors in the microsomal suspension of rat brain by using a potent β-adrenergic receptor antagonist 3H-dihydroalprenolol as a radiolabelled ligand14–19. Our results indicate that the main mechanism is a reduction in the number of receptors.
Phytoplankton growth and mortality during the 1995 Northeast Monsoon and Spring Intermonsoon in the Arabian Sea

Abstract Phytoplankton growth rates and mortality rates were experimentally examined at eight stations in the Arabian Sea along the U.S. JGOFS cruise track during the 1995 Northeast Monsoon (January) and Spring Intermonsoon (March–April). Instantaneous growth rates averaged over an entire cruise were approximately twice as high during the NE Monsoon than during the Spring Intermonsoon period (overall averages of 0.84±0.29 (s.d.) versus 0.44±0.19 d −1 ). Average herbivore grazing (mortality) rates, however, were quite similar for the two seasons (overall averages of 0.35±0.18 and 0.30±0.17 d −1 for the NE Monsoon and Spring Intermonsoon, respectively). The absolute amounts of phytoplankton biomass consumed during each season also were similar (29 and 25% of standing stock consumed d −1 for the January and March–April cruises, respectively), as were the geographical trends of this removal. These seasonal trends in growth and removal rates resulted in net phytoplankton growth rates that were considerably higher during the January cruise (0.48 d −1 ) than during the March–April cruise (0.14 d −1 ). That is, phytoplankton production was more closely balanced during the Spring Intermonsoon season (87% of daily primary production consumed) relative to the NE Monsoon season (49% of daily primary production consumed). Station-to-station variability was high for rate measurements during either cruise. Nevertheless, there was a clear onshore–offshore trend in the absolute rate of removal of phytoplankton biomass (μg chlorophyll consumed l −1 d −1 ) during both cruises. Coastal stations had removal rates that were typically 2–4 times higher than removal rates at oceanic stations.
Catalytic hydrodeoxygenation: I. Conversions of o-, p-, and m-cresols

The hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of o-, m-, and p-cresols on HDS catalysts (sulfided CoOMoO3γ-Al2O3) at 225–400 °C and 68 atm hydrogen gives toluene and methylcyclohexane as the major products on both fresh and aged HDS catalyst. The relative reactivities of the cresols are found to be meta > para > ortho. HDO activity is slowly lost with time, but hydrogenation activity drops more rapidly and is less recoverable with reductive/sulfiding regeneration. As a consequence, the hydrogen consumption per atom of oxygen removed in cresol hydrodeoxygenation declines nearly 50% as the catalyst ages. The fresh catalyst operating at lower temperatures (225–275 °C) gives primarily a consecutive conversion pattern (cresol → toluene → methylcyclohexane), while the less active aged catalyst used at higher temperatures (350–400 °C) appears to exhibit a parallel path behavior to toluene and methylcyclohexane from a common surface intermediate. Ring saturation prior to hydrodeoxygenation does not appear to be necessary.
Reformulation of multiperiod MILP models for planning and scheduling of chemical processes

Abstract A large number of planning and scheduling problems can be formulated as multiperiod MILP models which often require substantial computational expense f
Pion-nucleon partial-wave amplitudes

We report pion-nucleon partial-wave amplitudes obtained from analysis of scattering data at pion laboratory momenta from 0.42 to 2.0 GeV/c. These partial-wave amplitudes have been analyzed using modified Breit-Wigner, coupled-channel parametrizations. The resulting resonances and their parameters are tabulated.
Durability of De Vega Tricuspid Valve Annuloplasty for Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation During Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Background Correction of significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) at the time of continuous-flow (CF) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation has been shown to be beneficial in several recently published studies. The most common technique is ring annuloplasty followed by valve replacement. Our center has primarily used the De Vega annuloplasty, and the durability of this repair is the focus of this study. Methods This was a retrospective review of 35 consecutive patients who underwent CF LVAD implantation and De Vega tricuspid valve annuloplasty (TVA) for severe TR and were alive at 1 year. Echocardiograms were obtained preoperatively, intraoperatively, at discharge, and at 1 year after operation. Results The TR in 32 of 35 patients (91.4%, group A) improved from severe preoperatively to insignificant at the time of discharge after De Vega TVA, and 3 patients (8.6%, group B) had moderate residual TR. At 1-year follow-up, 29 of 32 (90.6%) patients in group A had insignificant TR, 2 (6.3%) had moderate TR, and 1 (3.1%) had severe TR. In group B, 2 of 3 patients had no progression of their moderate TR at 1 year and 1 had severe TR. Overall, 2 of 35 (5.7%) patients had severe TR at 1 year after De Vega TVA and LVAD implantation. Conclusions We conclude from this consecutive cohort of patients undergoing CF LVAD implantation and De Vega TVA that this technique is very durable at 1 year and has the advantages of a shorter operative time relative to ring annuloplasty and decreased cost because a prosthetic implant is not used.
Monoamine Oxidase A is Required for Rapid Dendritic Remodeling in Response to Stress.

Background: Acute stress triggers transient alterations in the synaptic release and metabolism of brain monoamine neurotransmitters. These rapid changes are essential to activate neuroplastic processes aimed at the appraisal of the stressor and enactment of commensurate defensive behaviors. Threat evaluation has been recently associated with the dendritic morphology of pyramidal cells in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA); thus, we examined the rapid effects of restraint stress on anxiety-like behavior and dendritic morphology in the BLA and OFC of mice. Furthermore, we tested whether these processes may be affected by deficiency of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), the primary enzyme catalyzing monoamine metabolism. Methods: Following a short-term (1–4h) restraint schedule, MAO-A knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice were sacrificed, and histological analyses of dendrites in pyramidal neurons of the BLA and OFC of the animals were performed. Anxiety-like behaviors were examined in a separate cohort of animals subjected to the same experimental conditions. Results: In WT mice, short-term restraint stress significantly enhanced anxiety-like responses, as well as a time-dependent proliferation of apical (but not basilar) dendrites of the OFC neurons; conversely, a retraction in BLA dendrites was observed. None of these behavioral and morphological changes were observed in MAO-A KO mice. Conclusions: These findings suggest that acute stress induces anxiety-like responses by affecting rapid dendritic remodeling in the pyramidal cells of OFC and BLA; furthermore, our data show that MAO-A and monoamine metabolism are required for these phenomena.
Proteins of the Egg Shell

Abstract CALVERY 1 has shown that the protein of egg shell membranes has the amino acid composition of a typical keratin. An additional protein exists in the mineral portion of the shell and appears to serve as a matrix in which the inorganic salts are imbedded (Nathusius 2 ). An investigation of this matrix protein has been made in order to classify it more definitely. Eggs were thoroughly scrubbed with salt solution, broken and the shells thoroughly washed out. The shells were decalcified in dilute hydrochloric acid and the shell membranes removed. The remaining material was washed several times with salt solution and distilled water by centrifuging. The shell membranes were given a similar treatment. The materials were then dried in a current of air at 37° C and characteristic protein tests applied to each. The percentage of membrane in whole egg shell has been given by Almquist and Burmester 3 as 4.75, a mean . . .