cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Patterns of co-variability among California Current chinook salmon, coho salmon, Dungeness crab, and physical oceanographic conditions

Abstract One of the primary motivations for the GLOBEC NEP program was the apparent inverse relationship between the increase in salmon populations in the Gulf of Alaska since the mid-1970s and concurrent declines in salmon populations in the California Current. The increase in abundance of some salmon species in the Gulf of Alaska can be plausibly explained based on mechanisms involving changes in physical structure, biological productivity, and salmon survival. To assess concurrent changes in salmon populations in the California Current and their possible physical and biological bases we examined temporal and spatial patterns of co-variability between biological variables and physical descriptors along the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, from 1950 to 1990. The biological variables were catch records of coho salmon, chinook salmon and an ecologically related species, Dungeness crab. The physical variables were sea surface temperature, sea surface height (SSH) and the upwelling index (UWI). We found that while California Current coho salmon declined uniformly in the mid-1970s, consistent with the proposed inverse relationship, chinook salmon did not. All three species appear to be driven by the dominant mode of co-variability in the three physical variables, an indicator of warm/cool water conditions, but in different ways. In general, warm conditions have a negative effect on salmon at the age of ocean entry and spawning return, and Dungeness crab during the larval stage, while cool conditions have a positive effect. Differences in spatio-temporal variability between the two salmon species suggest they may respond to ocean conditions differently: coho salmon vary synchronously along the coast on annual time scales, while chinook salmon vary on slightly longer time scales in a specific spatial pattern. Dungeness crab vary on 10-year time scales, synchronously along the coast, except for the most southern areas (central California) where populations collapsed in the late 1950s. The dominant, warm/cool mode of physical co-variability, which drives these populations regionally, is related to basin-scale indices; it appeared to follow these indices in the 1950s and 1975–1990, but differs from them1960–1975, in ways that may be biologically important.
High resolution timing with low resolution clocks and microsecond resolution timer for Sun workstations

When tuning operating system and network code, profiling programs, analyzing message interarrival times, and accurately measuring device characteristics, a high resolution clock is often indispensable, as one cannot measure service time distributions without one. This note describes a microsecond clock that we designed and built for Sun 3 and Sun 4 workstations1. One can measure average service times without a high resolution clock. This paper explains how to measure average times with high precision in the absence of such a clock. We pose and answer the question: "how many measurements are needed to report timing data to three significant digits?"
Habituation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis hormones to repeated homotypic stress and subsequent heterotypic stressor exposure in male and female rats.

AbstractUnderstanding potential sex differences in repeated stress-induced hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical (HPA) axis habituation could provide insight into the sex-biased prevalence of certain affective disorders such as anxiety and depression. Therefore in these studies, male and female rats were exposed to 30 min of either audiogenic or restraint stress daily for 10 days in order to determine whether sex regulates the extent to which HPA axis hormone release is attenuated upon repeated homotypic stressor presentation. In response to the initial exposure, both stressors robustly increased plasma concentrations of both adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) in both sexes. Acutely, females displayed higher ACTH and CORT concentrations following restraint stress, whereas males exhibited higher hormone concentrations following loud noise stress. HPA axis hormone responses to both stressors decreased incrementally over successive days of exposure to each respective stressor. Despi...
On a “kinetic”-like sequence in rongorongo tablet “Mamari”

Abstract The paper addresses the question of “kinetic”-like attributes observed on a choice of glyphs in rongorongo tablet “Mamari” (lines 9–10, side b, text C). This tablet, a medium-sized rongorongo text, as near as I can tell, has been aptly referred to by researchers and commentators as containing mixed genres. “Mamari” also has a unique place in the corpus of Easter Island inscriptions due to its “lunar calendar” fragment. The sequence in Cb9–10 elicits interest since it may shed light on the disputed nature of rongorongo script. A suggested textual parallel on side a of “Mamari” gives ground to cautious discussions on the degree of variation, paraphrasing and economy of expression, as well as to the plausible sound-mapping in the rongorongo orthography. Similarly, it is shown by comparison of earlier tracings of Thomas Barthel and Steven R. Fischer with the photographs of the actual artefact that the accuracy of the published drawn corpus still requires some amendments, and hence all further studies...
Exercise in patients with hypertension

A progressive increase in arterial stiffness with aging contributes to systolic hypertension that results in left ventricular hypertrophy and concentric remodeling in the elderly. Lowering of blood pressure in older adults reduces cardiovascular risks. Endurance exercise training can lower blood pressure in older adults with mild (grade I) hypertension. However, the blood pressure-lowering effect of exercise training, compared with antihypertensive medications, is generally modest for both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Exercise training alone is likely to be ineffective in lowering blood pressure sufficiently in older adults with moderate to severe (grade II and higher) hypertension. However, exercise and weight loss may potentiate the effects of antihypertensive medications in these subjects. Low-intensity endurance exercise training appears to be most effective in reducing blood pressure in older hypertensive adults. Metabolic adaptations to exercise training can significantly reduce other risk factors for coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis, in addition to reducing blood pressure. Endurance exercise training improves exercise capacity and quality of life, and can induce a modest but significant regression of left ventricular hypertrophy and remodeling in older adults with hypertension.
Accurate shell-model nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double-β decay

We investigate a novel method of accurate calculation of the neutrinoless double-$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay shell-model nuclear matrix elements for the experimentally relevant case of $^{76}\mathrm{Ge}$. We demonstrate that with the new method the nuclear matrix elements have perfect convergence properties and, using only the first 100 intermediate states of each spin, the matrix elements can be calculated with better than 1% accuracy. Based on the analysis of neutrinoless double-$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decays of $^{48}\mathrm{Ca},\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{82}\mathrm{Se}$, and $^{76}\mathrm{Ge}$ isotopes, we propose a new method to estimate the optimal values of the average closure energies at which the closure approximation gives the most accurate nuclear matrix elements. We also analyze the nuclear matrix elements for the heavy-neutrino-exchange mechanism, and we show that our method can be used to quench contributions from different intermediate spin states.
High Fidelity Computational Model of Bone Remodeling Cellular Mechanisms

One of the most intriguing aspects of bone is its ability to grow, repair damage, adapt to mechanical loads, and maintain mineral homeostasis [1]. It is generally accepted that bone adaptation occurs in response to the mechanical demands of our daily activities; moreover, strain and microdamage have been implicated as potential stimuli that regulate bone remodeling [2]. Computational models have been used to simulate remodeling in an attempt to better understand the metabolic activities which possess the key information of how this process is carried out [3]. At present, the connection between the cellular activity of remodeling and the applied mechanical stimuli is not fully understood. Only a few mathematical models have been formulated to characterize the remolding process in terms of the cellular mechanisms that occur [4,5].Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Identification of Motive Forces on the Whole Body System during Walking

Motive forces by muscles are applied to different parts of the human body in a periodic fashion when walking at a uniform rate. In this study, the whole human body is modeled as a multidegree of freedom (MDOF) system with seven degrees of freedom. In view of the changing contact conditions with the ground due to alternating feet movements, the system under study is considered piecewise time invariant for each half-period when one foot is in contact with the ground. Forces transmitted from the body to the ground while walking at a normal pace are experimentally measured and numerically simulated. Fourth-order Runge-Kutta method is employed to numerically simulate the forces acting on different masses of the body. An optimization problem is formulated with the squared difference between the measured and simulated forces transmitted to the ground as the objective function, and the motive forces on the body masses as the design variables to solve.
Modified Eigenfunctions for Transversely Isotropic Composites with Applications to Stress Analysis of a Broken Fiber

When a transversely isotropic elastic body that contains a notch or a crack is under an axisymmetric deformation, the eigenfunction solution near the singular point is in the form of a power series δf(ψ,δ), δ+1f 1(ψ,δ), δ+2f2(ψ,δ) ... in which (,ψ) is the polar coordinate with origin at the singular point and δ is the eigenvalue, or the order of singularity. A difficulty arises when δ as well as δ + k, where k is a positive integer, are also eigenvalues. In this case the higher order terms of the series solution may not exist. A modified solution is required and is presented here. The modified solution has the new terms δ+k(ln) F1(ψ,δ), δ+k +1(ln)F2(ψ,δ).... As an application, we consider the stresses near a broken fiber in a composite which is under an axisymmetric deformation. The interface between the broken fiber and the matrix also suffers a delamination. This creates stress singularities at several points some of which require the modified eigenfunc tions presented here.
I. FACTOR ANALYSIS OF UFO-RELATED ATTITUDES

Factor analysis of 41 items related to the topic of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) in a sample of 267 college students yields 9 factors. These factors may be interpreted as: I, Belief in Extraterrestrial Visitation; II, Existence of Subjective Evidence; III, Existence of Objective Evidence; IV, Belief in Natural Explanations; V, Belief in Psychological Explanations; VI, Philosophy of Science; VII, Belief in Governmental Secrecy; VIII, Belief in Governmental Adequacy; and IX, Belief in UFO Respectability.
Parathyroid Gland of Domesticated Ruminants

Abstract Landmarks and other criteria were established for location of the parathyroid gland of domestic ruminants. The parathyroid gland consisted of two portions on each side of the Iaryngeal area. They are officially designated at Externa III and Interna IV. The external gland was located near the termination of the common carotid artery. It could be associated with the submandibular salivary gland. The internal gland lay near or embedded in the thyroid gland. In each case it was a brownish rounded but firm body which could be separated from the surrounding tissue.
A global a posteriori error estimate for quasilinear elliptic problems

A global a posteriori error estimate, valid even if uniqueness fails, is obtained for a class of quasilinear elliptic partial differential equations. It is applied to the analysis of finite element methods for such problems, and to a primitive Fourier series method for the stationary Navier-Stokes problem in three dimensions at arbitrary Reynolds number.
Introduction to bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is a multifaceted discipline combining many scientific fields including computational biology, statistics, mathematics, molecular biology, and genetics. Bioinformatics enables biomedical investigators to exploit existing and emerging computational technologies to seamlessly store, mine, retrieve, and analyze data from genomics and proteomics technologies. This is achieved by creating unified data models, standardizing data interfaces, developing structured vocabularies, generating new data visualization methods, and capturing detailed metadata that describes various aspects of the experimental design and analysis methods. Already there are a number of related undertakings that are dividing the field into more specialized groups. Clinical Bioinformatics and Biomedical Informatics are emerging as transitional fields to promote the utilization of genomics and proteomics data combined with medical history and demographic data towards personalized medicine, molecular diagnostics, pharmacogenomics and predicting outcomes of therapeutic interventions. The field of bioinformatics will continue to evolve through the incorporation of diverse technologies and methodologies that draw experts from disparate fields to create the latest computational and informational tools specifically design for the biomedical research enterprise.
Effect of Synthetic Aβ Peptide Oligomers and Fluorinated Solvents on Kv1.3 Channel Properties and Membrane Conductance

The impact of synthetic amyloid β (1–42) (Aβ1–42) oligomers on biophysical properties of voltage-gated potassium channels Kv 1.3 and lipid bilayer membranes (BLMs) was quantified for protocols using hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as solvents prior to initiating the oligomer formation. Regardless of the solvent used Aβ1–42 samples contained oligomers that reacted with the conformation-specific antibodies A11 and OC and had similar size distributions as determined by dynamic light scattering. Patch-clamp recordings of the potassium currents showed that synthetic Aβ1–42 oligomers accelerate the activation and inactivation kinetics of Kv 1.3 current with no significant effect on current amplitude. In contrast to oligomeric samples, freshly prepared, presumably monomeric, Aβ1–42 solutions had no effect on Kv 1.3 channel properties. Aβ1–42 oligomers had no effect on the steady-state current (at −80 mV) recorded from Kv 1.3-expressing cells but increased the conductance of artificial BLMs in a dose-dependent fashion. Formation of amyloid channels, however, was not observed due to conditions of the experiments. To exclude the effects of HFIP (used to dissolve lyophilized Aβ1–42 peptide), and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) (used during Aβ1–42 synthesis), we determined concentrations of these fluorinated compounds in the stock Aβ1–42 solutions by 19F NMR. After extensive evaporation, the concentration of HFIP in the 100× stock Aβ1–42 solutions was ∼1.7 μM. The concentration of residual TFA in the 70× stock Aβ1–42 solutions was ∼20 μM. Even at the stock concentrations neither HFIP nor TFA alone had any effect on potassium currents or BLMs. The Aβ1–42 oligomers prepared with HFIP as solvent, however, were more potent in the electrophysiological tests, suggesting that fluorinated compounds, such as HFIP or structurally-related inhalational anesthetics, may affect Aβ1–42 aggregation and potentially enhance ability of oligomers to modulate voltage-gated ion channels and biological membrane properties.
Effect of celiac ganglionectomy and thoracolumbar sympathectomy or adrenal medullectomy on histamine ulcer in dogs.

ConclusionThe potentiating effect of postganglionic sympathectomy, by a celiac ganglionectomy, on histamine induced ulcer in dogs is abolished by a bilateral thoracolumbar sympathectomy or adrenal medullectomy.
THERMAL TRANSITIONS IN HUMAN VERY LOW-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN: FUSION, RUPTURE AND DISSOCIATION OF HDL-LIKE PARTICLES

Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are metabolic precursors of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Human VLDL are heterogeneous complexes containing a triacylglycerol-rich apolar lipid core and polar surface composed of phospholipids, a nonexchangeable apolipoprotein B, and exchangeable apolipoproteins E and Cs. We report the first stability study of VLDL. Circular dichroism and turbidity data reveal an irreversible heat-induced VLDL transition that involves formation of larger particles and repacking of apolar lipids but no global protein unfolding. Heating rate effect on the melting temperature indicates a kinetically controlled reaction with high activation energy, Ea. Arrhenius analysis of the turbidity data reveals two kinetic phases with Ea = 53 +/- 7 kcal/mol that correspond to distinct morphological transitions observed by electron microscopy. One transition involves VLDL fusion, partial rupture, and dissociation of small spherical particles (d = 7-15 nm), and another involves complete lipoprotein disintegration and lipid coalescence into droplets accompanied by dissociation of apolipoprotein B. The small particles, which are unique to VLDL denaturation, are comparable in size and density to high-density lipoproteins (HDL); they have an apolar lipid core and polar surface composed of exchangeable apolipoproteins (E and possibly Cs) and phospholipids. We conclude that, similar to HDL and LDL, VLDL are stabilized by kinetic barriers that prevent particle fusion and rupture and decelerate spontaneous interconversion among lipoprotein classes and subclasses. In addition to fusion, VLDL disruption involves transient formation of HDL-like particles that may mimic protein exchange among VLDL and HDL pools in plasma.
An analysis of the compositional integrity of the Levantine Mousterian facies

Abstract For almost a century, the Levantine Mousterian facies B, C and D first defined by Dorothy Garrod at Mugharet et-Tabūn have figured prominently in discussions of spatial and temporal variability in the Middle Paleolithic of the Levant. Although much modified by subsequent workers, and frequently described qualitatively, the compositional integrity of these basic analytical units has never been assessed quantitatively. Here we describe the statistical parameters of the facies using a large data set comprising 54 collections from 20 sites assigned by the excavators to one or another of the facies. A statistical summary revealed many cross-cutting patterns that departed from qualitative descriptions of the facies, calling their compositional integrity into question. A multivariate discriminant analysis helped resolve some of these problems. It confirmed a strong statistical affinity between the B and C facies, which were in turn sharply differentiated from D. Our results are then compared with the stratified Mousterian sequence at Hummal, a site in the Syrian Desert. Relatively good correspondence was attained. Implications of the analysis are discussed in terms of the adequacy of the systematics used to identify facies differences and what they might mean behaviorally.
Scattering parameters of SMA coaxial connector pairs

A technique is described for making reflection and insertion loss measurements on microwave connectors, without the need for reference to calibrated or precision standards. The effects of connectors used in the measuring system are removed from the results, thus providing a means for testing and selecting cables from a group for specific critical applications. Results are given for a group of eight sections of Type 141 solid dielectric line having SMA connectors, and generic behavior is predicted for the SMA connector.
A MICRO INJECTION STUDY ON THE PERMEABILITY OF THE STARFISH EGG.

The experiments with the NH4Cl are similar to, and corroborate micro injection experiments performed in connection with some work on mustard gas in which the writer collaborated. Eggs immersed in sea water containing decomposed mustard gas, at a certain low concentration are not affected. If, however, the solution be injected, the egg quickly cytolyzes owing to the free HCl present. A similar impermeability of the protoplasmic surface film to certain substances was also encountered in injection work on Amœba. Amœbœ immersed in an aqueous solution of eosin will not take the stain till after death. On the other hand, the eosin, when injected into the Amœba, quickly permeates the protoplasm, to be arrested only at the surface. The semipermeability of a living cell appears primarily to be a function of its surface film. It is immaterial whether this film be that of the original cortex of the cell, a film newly formed over a cut surface, or a film that surrounds an artificially induced vacuole within the cell. As long as such a surface film exists neither the acid group of the NH4Cl nor the alkaline group of the NaHCO3 can, within certain concentration limits, penetrate the protoplasm. These solutions, if injected beneath the surface film, however, will produce their characteristic effects upon the protoplasm.
Advances in vocational theory and research: A 20-year retrospective

This paper reviews major advances in theory and research on vocational behavior over the past 2 decades. Organized along the lines of traditional distinctions between counseling and organizational behavior, the state of theory and research circa 1971 is reviewed, then important trends in research and theory development in the intervening decades are summarized. Some important distinctions in focus between the counseling psychology and organizational behavior perspectives are noted. Within the counseling psychology tradition the evolution of several older theoretical models and the emergence of promising new conceptual frameworks are traced. From an organizational behavior perspective, changing trends in the application of theoretical models to vocational topics are explored. Finally, important areas of convergence are discussed and recommendations for future research, particularly the cross-fertilization of ideas between traditions within the field of vocational behavior, are proposed.
Selling the True Time: Nineteenth-Century Timekeeping in America . By Ian R. Bartky. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2000. Pp. xvii, 310. $45.00.

Contrary to what its title suggests, this book is not a history of clock design, manufacture, or marketing. It is instead about the rise and fall of commercial time signal distribution by astronomical observatories in the nineteenth-century United States—time-telling rather than timekeeping. It narrates complex interactions of scientific, business, and governmental establishments around the activity of telling any buyer of the service, and therefore also the public at large, what time it was, accurately and consistently. It also discusses the adoption, late in the century, of American standard time zones and the eventual international agreement to accept the location of Greenwich in England as 0°, the prime meridian from which other meridians were calibrated.
Steady-state and dynamic analyses of high-order parallel resonant convertors

The steady-state and small-signal dynamic analyses of a four-element, high-order parallel resonant DC-DC convertor operating in the continuous-current conduction mode are presented. The analyses are based on the concepts of describing function and harmonic balance. Other lower-order parallel resonant DC-DC convertors are analysed using modified versions of the equations for the four-element convertor. For output voltage control based on variation of switching frequency, convertor characteristics are determined and in some cases are compared with experimental and simulation results. It is shown that this analysis approach does not only provide an accurate unifying technique for convertor steady-state and small-signal dynamic analyses and design, but can also be used for the prediction of the output filter ripple components.< >
Effect of vector asymmetry of radially polarized beams in solid immersion microscopy.

We theoretically and experimentally investigate the effect of imperfect vector symmetry on radially polarized beams focused by an aplanatic solid immersion lens at a numerical aperture of 3.3. We experimentally achieve circularly symmetric focused spot with a full-width-half-maximum of ~λ0/5.7 at λ0 = 1310nm, free-space wavelength. The tight spatial confinement and overall circular symmetry of the focused radially polarized beam are found to be sensitive to perturbations of its cylindrical polarization symmetry. The addition of a liquid crystal based variable retarder to the optical path can effectively ensure the vector symmetry and achieve circularly symmetric focused spots at such high numerical aperture conditions.
Note on the use of stepwise regression in detecting outliers.

Abstract Cases can be considered as possible outliers in a regression structure if deletion results in a sufficiently large reduction of the residual sum of squares. Calculations for selection of outlier cases on this basis can be accomplished by use of stepwise regression programs. Numerical examples are included.
Order and Age of Eruption for the Deciduous Dentition

Presently available research literature includes no less than a score of North American studies pertaining to the time and sequence of eruption of the primary or "'milk" teeth. For only about one-sixth of these studies is the medium of original report a dental periodical, the remaining five-sixths are in anthropological, biological, child development, medical (mainly pediatric) and psychological publications. It is a major objective of this paper to bring together these widely scattered reports and make their contents more readily accessible to members of the dental profession. A second major objective of the paper is that of presenting an epitome of research knowledge concerning the age and order of eruption of deciduous teeth in North American children. This, of course, presupposes a systematic and comprehensive integration of the materials from different studies. The two objectives determine the two parts of the paper: The first-colligation-is carried out under the caption "Presentation of Research Materials" and the second-synthesis-under the caption "Generalizations." There are incorporated in both parts the findings from two previously unpublished investigations.
FILM BOILING AND FREE CONVECTION HEAT TRANSFER TO CARBON DIOXIDE NEAR THE CRITICAL STATE.

Abstract Measurements of the heat transfer from a horizontal platinum wire to carbon dioxide over a pressure range from 0·8 to 1·1 of the critical pressure are reported. The heat transfer coefficient at conditions very close to the critical point is very large. Below the critical point in the two-phase region, film boiling appears with uprising vapor in columns or sheets. The sheets are similar in appearance to free convection flows above the critical point. Two similar relations correlate the heat-transfer measurements at bulk conditions both above and below the critical point.
Observations of the anomalous oxygen isotopic composition of carbon dioxide in the lower stratosphere and the flux of the anomaly to the troposphere

[1] Measurements of the triple oxygen isotopic composition of stratospheric CO 2 in whole air samples from the NASA ER-2 aircraft show anomalous enrichments in 17 O and 18 O. The compact correlation of the isotope anomaly (defined as Δ 17 O = δ 17 O - 0.516 x δ 18 O) with simultaneous N 2 O measurements demonstrates that Δ 17 O CO2 is a long-lived tracer with a stratospheric source. These characteristics, and an isotopic link to O 3 production, make Δ 17 O CO2 potentially useful as a tracer of integrated stratospheric chemistry and transport. The Δ 17 O CO2 :N 2 O correlation is also used to estimate a net Δ 17 O CO2 flux to the troposphere of 3.6 ± 0.9 x 10 15 ‰ mol CO 2 yr -1 . This flux is required to predict and understand the CO 2 and O 2 isotope anomalies in the troposphere and their use as tracers of gross carbon exchanges between the atmosphere and biosphere on interannual to glacial-interglacial time scales.
The use of microalgae for assimilation and utilization of carbon dioxide from fossil fuel-fired power plant flue gas

Abstract The accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, primarily as a result of the combustion of fossil fuels, has been linked to potential global climate change. Capture and utilization of the carbon dioxide by microalgae has emerged as a promising technology to help reduce emissions from fossil fuel-fired power plants. Microalgae are of particular interest because of their rapid growth rates and tolerance to varying environmental conditions. We are currently conducting experiments on the growth of microalgae exposed to simulated flue gas. This technology is envisioned for open raceway cultivation ponds as a low cost implementation strategy. Coupling the production of fuel or commodity chemicals with the use of flue gas carbon dioxide as a microalgal nutrient is envisioned to be a cost-effective method of reducing the amount of carbon dioxide contributed to the atmosphere by fossil fuel-fired power plants.
Pain Relief Before Pain Starts

S cientific investigation and observation are fueling an evolution in our understanding of postoperative pain. It is clear that a biochemical storm is created by the incision and manipulation of tissue. 1,s,~l,14,~s The stimulation of free nerve endings is enhanced by damage to cell membranes that releases substances that mediate the analgesic response? ~'14'~5 Bradykinin, serotonin, potassium, and histamine both sensitize and stimulate the nociceptors, whereas arachidonic acid derivatives such as prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes sensitize without directly stimulating the receptors. The subsequent neural input to the central nervous system (CNS) causes segmental spinal and integrated suprasegmental reflex responses as listed in Table 1. The summation of these effects with the cortical/affective reaction to the pain generates the list of potential pathophysiologic consequences (Table 2). As this tally shows that every organ system of the body can be adversely affected by pain and because these physiologic effects influence morbidity and mortality, the list also represents a compelling argument that postoperative pain must be effectively treated. Though the traditional approach of medical science is to treat postoperative pain after it has arisen, there is virtue in trying to prevent or minimize pain before it occurs. Thence comes the concept of preemptive analgesia. Literally this implies "taking possession (of the pain) before other (forces) can" or, better yet in terms of preventing pain, "seizing the initiative." Yaksh and Abram suggest that the term preemptive analgesia is a phrase that is inappropriately used in contemporary nomenclature, yet they contend that there is a growing body of evidence
Ultrahigh Frequency Nanotube Resonators

We report carbon-nanotube-based electromechanical resonators with the fundamental mode frequency over 1.3 GHz, operated in air at room temperature. A new combination of drive and detection methods allows for unprecedented measurement of both oscillation amplitude and phase and elucidates the relative mobility of static charges near the nanotube. The resonator serves as an exceptionally sensitive mass detector capable of $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}18}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{g}$ resolution.
Hexosaminidase inhibitors as new drug candidates for the therapy of osteoarthritis

Abstract Background: Articular cartilage from patients with osteoarthritis is characterized by a decreased concentration and reduced size of glycosaminoglycans. Degeneration of the cartilage matrix is a multifactorial process, which is due in part to accelerated glycosaminoglycan catabolism. Recently, we have demonstrated that hexosaminidase represents the dominant glycosaminoglycan-degrading glycosidase released by chondrocytes into the extracellular compartment and is the dominant glycosidase in synovial fluid from patients with osteoarthritis. Inhibition of hexosaminidase activity may represent a novel approach to the prevention of cartilage matrix glycosaminoglycan degradation and a potentially new strategy to treat osteoarthritis. Results: We have synthesized and investigated a series of iminocyclitols designed as transition-state analog inhibitors of human hexosaminidase, and demonstrated that the five-membered iminocyclitol 4 expresses the strongest inhibitory activity with K i =24 nM. Inhibition of hexosaminidase activity in human cultured articular chondrocytes and human chondrosarcoma cells with iminocyclitol 4 resulted in accumulation of hyaluronic acid and sulfated glycosaminoglycans in the cell-associated fraction. Similarly, incubation of human cartilage tissue with iminocyclitol 4 resulted in an accumulation of glycosaminoglycans in the pericellular compartment. Conclusions: Inhibition of hexosaminidase activity represents a new strategy for preventing or even reversing cartilage degradation in patients with osteoarthritis.
Technical opinion: The emperor with no clothes

The true problem with software ishardware. We have been seducedby the promise of more and moreand have become entranced underthe spell of Moore’s Law. Contin-ued progress in hardware is not afriend, but our nemesis. We havebeen shielded by hardwareadvances from confronting ourown incompetence as software pro-fessionals and our immaturity asan engineering profession.—
An obsolescence management framework for system baseline evolution—Perspectives through the system life cycle

In military, civil, and commercial systems there exists a need to affordably manage the operational effectiveness of the system of interest through the acquisition and operational stages of its life cycle. Once a system design is baselined and instantiated, then the challenge during development, production, and utilization life cycle stages is to maintain the currency of the physical system baseline to facilitate affordable system support. In essence, the system must adapt to potentially frequent asynchronous obsolescence of its constituent elements, requirements growth (driven by the operational environmental and external constraints such as funding, schedule or risk), and external environment changes. This paper specifically addresses the impact that system element obsolescence has on a system baseline during the various system life cycle phases and provides a framework for affordable system evolution. Literature search and consolidation has articulated six integral components that comprise a comprehensive evolution framework through bottoms-up obsolescence management of constituent system elements. Each of the obsolescence management components is tangibly addressed in terms of each system life cycle phase and the available tools and methods. Additionally, each of the obsolescence management framework components is analyzed for life cycle phase applicability and then extended further with the criticality and type of analysis to be done for that life cycle phase. In this way, a project can determine which studies to perform, while in a specific life cycle phase, that maximizes the insight of impending obsolescence for a particular system. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
Mid-IR optical amplification and detection using quantum cascade lasers

Amplification and detection characteristics of mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are studied. The QCL amplifier has an adjustable bandwidth and tunable gain peak to function as a tunable mid-IR filter. By biasing the QCL slightly below its threshold, we demonstrated more than 11dB optical gain and over 28dB electrical gain at specified wavelengths. In the electrical gain measurement process, the resonant amplifier also functioned as a detector. Mid-IR amplification and detection can be achieved using the same material for the laser source. This indicates that intersubband based gain materials can be ideal candidates for mid-IR photonic integrations.
Single W production from heavy Z decay in E6 theories

Abstract We examine the production of single W bosons in the decay of heavy Z bosons, which are present in the low energy limit of E 6 grand unified theories, via the process Z′→W + l − ν l . The branching ratio for this process is found to be sensitive to the Z′-fermion couplings as well as the amount of mixing between Z′ and the usual standard model Z over a wide range of Z′ masses.
Regulation of human extravillus trophoblast (EVT) cell differentiation and proliferation in vitro-role of epidermal growth factor (EGF)

Summary First trimester chorionic villus explants, maintained on growth factor reduced Matrigel in serum-free media, were used to assess the effect of exogenous EGF on EVT cell proliferation and hCG production in vitro . It has been previously demonstrated that villus explants maintained on Matrigel give rise to EVT cell outgrowth from the tips of anchoring villi. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) antibodies were used to identify dividing cells in both non-cultured, cultured control, and EGF treated placental villus tissue. In non-cultured tissue from 5–6 weeks of gestation, PCNA immunostained most of the nuclei of the villus and cell column cytotrophoblast cells. The percentage of PCNA positive cytotrophoblast cells was reduced to about 70–80% in late gestation (8–10 weeks) first trimester tissue. PCNA failed to immunostain nuclei in syncytiotrophoblast. In both control and EGF treated cultures, PCNA immunostaining after 4 days in vitro was observed in most nuclei of villus and cell column cytotrophoblast and in 90% of cytokeratin positive cells that have migrated into the matrix outside the villus. These cytokeratin positive, mononucleated cells have been previously identified as EVT cells differentiated in vitro . The number of EVT cells differentiated in vitro has lower in late than early gestation villus tissue cultures. After 6 days in culture, the number of PCNA positive EVT cells was reduced to about 60%. Most immunostaining was observed in EVT cells close to the tips of anchoring villi. The complete disappearance of PCNA immunostaining was observed in cultures maintained in vitro for 10 and more days (results not shown). EGF supplemented culture media (1, 10, and 100 ng/ml) did not stimulate EVT proliferation and did not prevent the gradual decrease of PCNA positive cells. In contrast to the lack of effect on EVT proliferation, EGF produced strictly gestational age dependent effects on hCG production. Exogenous EGF stimulated in a dose dependent manner (1–10 ng/ml) hCG production by explants of 8–10 weeks of gestation and was without effect on hCG production by explants of 5–6 weeks of gestation. As exogenous EGF did not affect the percentage of PCNA positive cells and the number of EVT cells in villus explants 5–6 and 8–10 weeks of gestation, it was concluded that this growth factor is not mitogenic for EVT cells in vitro . The possibility that EGF alone or with some other growth factors may act through an autocrine mechanism is not, however, excluded.
Overlap between autism and specific language impairment: comparison of Autism Diagnostic Interview and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule scores

Autism and specific language impairment (SLI) are developmental disorders that, although distinct by definition, have in common some features of both language and social behavior. The goal of this study was to further explore the extent to which specific clinical features of autism are seen in SLI. The children with the two disorders, matched for non-verbal IQ, were compared on the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). In the SLI group, 41% met autism or autism spectrum cut-offs for social or communication domains either on the ADI or ADOS or both. No relationship was found between the language deficits exhibited by the children with SLI and their scores on the ADI and ADOS. These findings contribute to evidence that there is some overlap in social and communicative deficits between autism and SLI, supporting the view that autism and SLI share etiologic factors. This continuum of pathology between SLI and autism appears to range from structural language abnormalities as seen in individuals with SLI to individuals with SLI with both structural and social abnormalities to individuals with autism with pragmatic impairment and language abnormalities.
Selective impairment of Porteus maze test performance after right subthalamotomy

Abstract A series of patients stereotactically treated with a subthalamic lesion placed in the region of the fields of Forel was psychologically evaluated before and approx. 8 months after operation. Selective impairment of Porteus Maze Test performance, in the absence of alterations in global intelligence, was observed after right subthalamotomy only. A preliminary formulation was developed to account for the unexpected emergence of a lateralized deficit at the subcortical level.
RESTORING A CREDIBLE SECURITY FRAMEWORK TO EUROPE: GERMANY, EUROPE AND THE WESTERN EUROPEAN UNION

Only five years after the end of the Cold War, a new European security framework, which encompasses more than the old West European members ofNA TO and the Western European Union (WEU), has not emerged. The beginning of the transformation of the European security order has caused considerable problems, especially as the “transition” has not been free of conflict and military confrontation. At the center of the reevaluation of Europe's security needs have been the future role of NATO, the possible use of the WEU as a European security arm, and the special concerns of a reunified Germany. This essay, largely argumentative and interpretive, suggests that Europe s and Germany's security requirements can best be met through the institutions of the EU and its security and defense arm, the somewhat dormant WEU. Moreover, Germany s own security opinions suggest a reorientation toward European efforts at collective security.
Nonlinear control laws for switching power converters

Nonlinear control laws for switching power converters are explored, using an up-down converter as a vehicle. A nonlinear change of variables is used to transform the usual state-space description into one that is more amenable to design of a sliding mode control. Results of numerical simulations and of a microprocessor implementation based on look-up tables are presented.
A model for calculating the quantum potential for time-varying multi-slit systems

Abstract A model is proposed and applied to the single and double slit experiments. The model is designed to take into account a change in the experimental setup. This includes opening and closing the slits in some way, or by introducing some object which can be thought of as having a perturbing effect on the space-time background. The single and double slits could be closed simultaneously or one after the other in such a way as to transform from one arrangement to the other. The model consists in using modified free particle propagators in such a way that the required integrals for calculating the overall wave function can be calculated. It is supposed that these constants reflect the ambient structure as the experimental situation is modified, and might be calculable with regard to a more fundamental theory.
Pressure dissociation of solid nitrogen under 1 Mbar.

The zero-temperature transition pressure from molecular to monatomic nitrogen is predicted to be less than about 1 Mbar, and should be observable in diamond-anvil cells. This estimate is obtained from total-energy calculations in which compressed molecular nitrogen is found to dissociate into a simple cubic monatomic structure, slight distortions of which are common to other group-V elements. The calculated 35% volume change raises the possibility of a large barrier to dissociation and extensive regions of metastability.
Induction of Proinflammatory Responses in Macrophages by the Glycosylphosphatidylinositols of Plasmodium falciparum THE REQUIREMENT OF EXTRACELLULAR SIGNAL-REGULATED KINASE, p38, c-Jun N-TERMINAL KINASE AND NF-κB PATHWAYS FOR THE EXPRESSION OF PROINFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES AND NITRIC OXIDE

Abstract The glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchors of Plasmodium falciparum have been proposed to be the major factors that contribute to malaria pathogenesis by eliciting the production of proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide by the host innate immune system. In this study we demonstrate that the parasite GPIs can effectively induce the production of TNF-α at 5-20 nm concentrations in interferon-γ-primed monocytes and macrophages. The potency of the parasite GPIs activity is physiologically relevant to their ability to contribute to severe malaria pathogenesis. More importantly, we investigated the requirement of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)-, p38-, and NF-κB-signaling pathways that are activated in response to P. falciparum GPIs through toll-like receptor-mediated recognition (Krishnegowda, G., Hajjar, A. M., Zhu J. Z., Douglass, E. J., Uematsu, S., Akira, S., Wood, A. S., and Gowda, D. C. (2005) J. Biol. Chem. 280, 8606-8616) for the proinflammatory responses by macrophages. The data conclusively show that the production of TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-6, and nitric oxide by macrophages stimulated with parasite GPIs is critically dependent on the NF-κB and JNK pathways. NF-κB1 is essential for IL-6 and IL-12 production but not for TNF-α and nitric oxide, whereas NF-κB/c-Rel appears to be important for all four proinflammatory mediators. JNK1 and JNK2 are functionally redundant for the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and nitric oxide, whereas JNK2 but not JNK1 is essential for IL-12 production. The ERK signaling pathway is not involved in TNF-α and nitric oxide production, but, interestingly, negatively regulates the expression of IL-6 and IL-12. Furthermore, p38 is critical for the production of IL-6 and IL-12 but is only marginally required for the production of TNF-α and nitric oxide. Thus, our data define the differential requirement of the downstream signaling molecules for the production of key proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide by macrophages in response to P. falciparum GPI stimuli. The data have important implications for the development of therapeutics for malaria treatment.
Electronic excitations of poly(methylphenylsilane) films.

We report electroabsorption (EA), two-photon absorption (TPA), and the spectrum for charge-carrier generation in thin films of poly(methylphenylsilane) (PMPS). The one-photon absorption to a singlet exciton, which begins at {ital E}{sub {ital g}}=3.5 eV, appears in EA and indicates a polarizability change of 1.8{times}10{sup {minus}22} cm{sup 3}. The onset around 4.6 eV of direct generation of charge carriers by photons defines the interband gap {ital E}{sub {ital b}} and correlates with an EA feature at 4.65 eV that we associate with charge transfer between polymer segments. The TPA around 4.4 eV is to the second {sup 1}{ital A}{sub {ital g}} state and gives the alternation gap {ital E}{sub {ital a}}, while the broad TPA above 5 eV is assigned to an even-parity state derived from exciting two electrons across {ital E}{sub {ital g}}. A Pariser-Parr-Pople model for {sigma} conjugation in polysilanes accounts for {ital E}{sub {ital g}}, for polarizability changes, for TPA, and for the singlet-triplet gap {ital E}{sub {ital t}} in terms of correlated states. We contrast the spectra of amorphous PMPS with films of poly(di-{ital n}-hexylsilane), whose side groups are ordered at low temperature, and compare EA spectra in polysilanes with EA in crystalline organic solids and widebandmore » semiconductors.« less