cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In situ measurements of water transfer due to different mechanisms in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Water management is of critical importance in a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, in particular, those based on a sulfonic acid polymer, which requires water to conduct protons. Yet there are limited in situ studies of water transfer through the membrane and no data are available for water transfer due to individual mechanisms through the membrane in an operational fuel cell. Thus it is the objective of this study to measure water transfer through the membrane due to each individual mechanism in an operational PEM fuel cell. The three different mechanisms of water transfer, i.e., electro-osmotic drag, diffusion and hydraulic permeation are isolated by specially imposed boundary conditions. Therefore water transfer through the membrane due to each mechanism is measured separately. In this study, all the data is collected in an actual assembled operational fuel cell. The experimental results show that water transfer due to hydraulic permeation, i.e. the pressure difference between the anode and cathode is at least an order of magnitude lower than those due to the other two mechanisms. The data for water transfer due to diffusion through the membrane are in good agreement with some of the ex situ data in the literature. The data for electro-osmosis show that the number of water molecules dragged per proton increases not only with temperature but also with current density, which is different from existing data in the literature. The methodology used in this study is simple and can be easily adopted for in situ water transfer measurement due to different mechanisms in other PEM fuel cells without any cell modifications.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of tolrestat metabolites

Abstract The syntheses of five, previously isolated (from the rat) metabolites of the aldose reductase inhibitor, tolrestat ( 1 ) are described, namely tolrestat S-oxide ( 2 ), O-desmethyl tolrestat ( 3 ), O-desmethyl oxotolrestat ( 4 ), O-desmethyl tolrestat sulfate ( 5 ) and O-desmethyl oxotolrestat sulfate ( 6 ). The synthesis of the metabolite oxotolrestat ( 7 ) has been previously reported. These syntheses thus confirmed the structures of the metabolites. The synthetic compounds were tested in the 4-day galactosemic rat model ( in vivo ) and in the aldose reductase in vitro screen. Only the S-oxide ( 2 ) and oxotolrestat ( 7 ) have shown very good in vivo activity. All other metabolites were either inactive or had only marginal activity.
Water-use efficiency and the effect of water deficits on crop growth and yield of Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in a cool-temperate subhumid climate

The present study was conducted from 1998 to 2000, to evaluate seasonal water use and soil-water extraction by Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). The response of three cultivars to eight irrigation treatments in 1998/99 and four irrigation treatments in 1999/2000 at different growth stages was studied on a Wakanui silt loam soil in Canterbury, New Zealand. Evapotranspiration was measured with a neutron moisture meter and water use efficiency (WUE) was examined at crop maturity. Water use was about 426 mm for the fully irrigated treatment and at least 175 mm for the non-irrigated plants. There was a significant correlation (P<0·001) between water use and biomass yield (R2=0·80) and water use and seed yield (R2=0·75). There were also highly significant (P<0·001) interacting effects of irrigation, sowing date and cultivar on WUE and the trend was similar to that for seed yield. The estimated WUE ranged from 22–29 kg DM/ha per mm and 10–13 kg seed yield/ha per mm water use.The three chickpea cultivars were capable of drawing water from depths greater than 60 cm. However, most of the water use (0·49–0·93 mm/10 cm soil layer per day) came from the top 0–30 cm, where most of the active roots were concentrated. The study has shown that using actual evapotranspiration and water-use efficiency, the biomass yield and seed yield of Kabuli chickpeas can be accurately predicted in Canterbury. Soil water shortage has been identified as a major constraint to increasing chickpea production. Drought was quantified using the concept of maximum potential soil moisture deficit (Dpmax) calculated from climate data. Drought responses of yield, phenology, radiation use efficiency and yield components were determined, and were highly correlated with Dpmax. The maximum potential soil moisture deficit increased from about 62 mm (irrigated throughout) to about 358 mm (dryland plots). Chickpea yield, intercepted radiation and the number of pods per plant decreased linearly as the Dpmax increased. Penman's irrigation model accurately described the response of yield to drought. The limiting deficit for this type of soil was c. 165 and 84 mm for the November and December sowings in 1998/99 and 170 mm in 1999/2000. Beyond these limiting deficits, yield declined linearly with maximum potential soil moisture deficits of up to 358 mm. There was little evidence to support the idea of a moisture sensitive period in these Kabuli chickpea cultivars. Yield was increased by irrigating at any stage of crop development, provided that the water was needed as determined by the potential soil moisture deficit and sowing early in the season.
Synthesis and Antinociceptive Activity of (D-Ala2)Leu-Enkephalin Derivatives Conjugated with the Adamantane Moiety.

Based on the physicochemical and pharmacological properties of drugs having an adamantane skeleton, an adamantane-based moiety was evaluated as a drug carrier for poorly absorbed compounds, including peptides, active towards the central nervous system (CNS). Seven [D-Ala2]Leu-enkephalin derivatives conjugated with an adamantane-based moiety at the C-terminus or N-terminus were prepared by the solution-phase method and their biological activities were examined. The compounds derivatized at the C-terminus through an ester or amide linkage were much more lipophilic than the parent peptide and exhibited moderate in vitro opioid activity (guinea-pig ileum assay). Among them, four derivatives (1, 2, 4, 5), exhibited significant antinociceptive effects in an in vivo assay (mouse tail-pressure test) after subcutaneous administration. This result suggests that the introduction of the lipophilic adamantane moiety into [D-Ala2]Leu-enkephalin would improve the permeation of the poorly absorbed parent peptide through the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) withoug loss of antinociceptive effect.
Waist Circumference Threshold Values for Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Adult gains in body weight, excess adiposity, and intra-abdominal fat have each been associated with risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), forming the basis for preventive medicine guidelines and actuarial predictions using practical indices of weight (e.g., body mass index [BMI]) and waist circumference (WC). As obesity-related disease spreads beyond affluent western countries, application of WC thresholds to other populations has highlighted issues of their generalizability. For example, U.S. national health goals based on BMI < 25 kg/m 2 and WC < 89 cm (women) and <102 cm (men) differ considerably with a recent law in Japan mandating intervention for older adults with WC exceeding 90 cm (women) and 85 cm (men). The U.S. military has also faced issues of generalizability of WC-based adiposity standards that are fair and achievable. Data from many studies indicate that WC is a reliable biomarker for T2DM risk, suggesting that, for adult men and women, action thresholds should be more stringent than current U.S. guidelines, and it would not be harmful to set worldwide targets somewhere below 90 cm for men and women, regardless of weight status. Medical technology has provided many great insights into disease, including modern imaging technologies that have differentiated fat depots that have the greatest influence on T2DM, but ultimately, an inexpensive measuring tape provides the most useful and cost-effective preventive measure for T2DM today. At some point in the future, a Star Trek-like abdominal body fat “tricorder” noninvasive assessment of tissue composition may provide an advantage over abdominal girth.
Multiplexing Information-Carrying Orthogonal Beams using Orbital Angular Momentum States

Optical beams can carry orbital angular momentum (OAM), such that the beam's phase front "twists" as it propagates. There exists orthogonal OAM values that can be used to multiplex many data-carrying beams. We will discuss OAM multiplexing to enhance the capacity and spectral efficiency of communications.
Physiological derivation of the observed relationship between net primary production and mean annual air temperature

Empirical observations show that when examined along a climatic gradient, the annual net primary production (NPP) of terrestrial ecosystems increases with warmer mean annual air temperature (MAAT). This relationship has been used in models to calculate annual NPP and also its seasonal cycle by assuming some prescribed seasonality. However, the physiological processes causing the relationship and its applicability to climate change studies have not been examined. A mechanistic model of daily carbon exchange in forest ecosystems was used to derive the relationship between NPP and MAAT and to identify the physiological processes represented in this relationship. The model reproduced the observed empirical relationship and showed that it reflected, at least for boreal and temperate coniferous forests growing on moist soils, the length of the growing season, nitrogen limitation for NPP, and lower maintenance respiration rates in warm climates than in cold climates. NPP and the seasonal cycle of CO 2 uptake and release were relatively insensitive to the temperature dependencies of photosynthesis except at the beginning and end of the growing season. These analyses demonstrate that simple physiological assumptions can result in reasonable predictions of NPP over a wide range of climates. The seasonal cycle of CO 2 uptake and release and the empirical relationship between NPP and MAAT are consequences of the physiological assumptions and hence are validations of the NPP calculations rather than direct parameterizations of NPP. The NPP component of this model may provide the framework to integrate terrestrial carbon fluxes with the land surface schemes used in global climate models. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0889.1993.t01-4-00001.x
Human Capital and International Diversification

International portfolio diversification is looked at from an unusual perspective: the interaction between human capital and international diversification. The author notes that, despite well-grounded arguments in favor of international diversification, Americans hold an almost insignificant proportion of foreign stocks in their portfolios. The author examines the effects of human capital to see whether adding that dimension helps explain that apparent puzzle. He shows that extremely risk-averse investors may choose to own domestic equity only when human capital is considered, although extremely risk-averse investors may not choose to diversify internationally, even if human capital is ignored. Furthermore, the data support the contention that more representative investors should diversify internationally, but that this result does not seem to depend much on human capital. The author argues that the experiment reconciles several different previous findings, but concludes that, in general, his results seem to indicate that the degree of international diversification in an individual9s portfolio depends largely on the investor9s attitude toward risk.
IONIC HYDROGENATIONS OF HINDERED OLEFINS AT LOW TEMPERATURE. HYDRIDE TRANSFER REACTIONS OF TRANSITION METAL HYDRIDES

Sterically hindered olefins can be hydrogenated at -50[degree]C in dichloromethane using triflic acid (CF[sub 3]SO[sub 3]H) and a hydride donor. Mechanistic studies indicate that these reactions proceed by hydride transfer to the carbenium ion that is formed by protonation of the olefin. Olefins that form tertiary carbenium ions upon protonation are hydrogenated in high yields (90-100%). Styrenes generally produce lower yields of hydrogenated products (50-60%). Suitable hydride donors include HSiE[sub 3] and several transition metal carbonyl hydrides HW(CO)[sub 3]Cp, HW(CO)[sub 3]Cp[sup +], HMo-(CO)[sub 3]Cp, HMn(CO)[sub 5], HRe(CO)[sub 3], and HO[sub 3](CO)[sub 1]Cp*; Cp = [eta][sup 5]-C[sub 3]H[sub 5+], Cp* = [eta][sup 5]-C[sub 5]Me[sub 5]. A characteristic that is required for transition metal hydrides to be effective is that the cationic dihydrides (or dihydrogen complexes) that result from their protonation must have sufficient acidity to transfer a proton to the olefin, as well as sufficient thermal stability to avoid significant decomposition on the time scale of the hydrogenation reaction. Metal hydrides that fall due to insufficient stability of their protonated forms include HMo(CO)[sub 2](PPH[sub 3])Cp, HMo(CO)[sub 3]Cp*, and HFe(CO)[sub 2]Cp*. 62 refs., 2 tabs.
Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Partially Observed Stochastic Differential System Driven by a Fractional Brownian Motion

We study the strong consistency and asymptotic normality of the maximum likelihood estimator of a parameter appearing linearly in the drift coefficient of a partially observed nonlinear stochastic differential system when the observed process is driven by fractional Brownian motion and unobserved (signal process) is driven by ordinary Brownian motion. We illustrate the results for a linear fractional stochastic system.
The impact of cognitive expenditure on the ethical decision-making process: The cognition elaboration model.

Abstract The extent to which decision-makers are willing and able to purposely expend cognitive effort in resolving ethical issues is an important area of study in the ethical decision-making literature. In this article we describe the role that cognitive expenditure is expected to play in the ethical decision-making process by presenting an integrated model of ethical decision-making. This model provides the foundation for a series of research propositions suggesting the manner in which purposive cognitive expenditure is expected to influence the ethical decision process and, ultimately, the likelihood of engaging in moral behavior.
Prospects for charged particle lithography as a manufacturing technology

Abstract Both electron beams and ion beams have unlimited resolution as far as semiconductor manufacturing is concerned. Both have serious throughput limitations because of the difficulties of engineering suitable masks and because of space charge (particle-particle repulsion) effects. Masks are a problem first because of the difficulties of generating a pattern with better than 10 nm tolerance on short range (
Which Metric of Relative Weight Best Captures Body Fatness in Children

Objective To evaluate the relative merits of BMI (kilograms per meter squared) and age- and gender-adjusted BMI, age- and gender-specific z score of BMI, and age- and gender-specific percentiles of BMI as surrogate measures of body fatness among a sample of youth. Research methods and procedures The sample comprised 596 children and adolescents 5 to 18.7 years old and was 40% male and 55% white. Height and weight were measured by trained research staff. DXA was used to determine body fat mass. BMI, age- and gender-specific percentile of BMI, and age- and gender-specific z scores of BMI were computed, and these metrics were compared with measured body fatness. Results The BMI values in the sample ranged from 12.9 to 55.0 kg/m(2), with a mean of 24.9 kg/m(2). The Spearman correlations with percentage body fat were similar for all of the BMI metrics (r = 0.82 to 0.88). Linear regression models with age- and gender-specific percentiles of BMI explained significantly less of the variance (65%) than models with log-transformed BMI (81%) or age- and gender-specific z scores of BMI (75% to 79%). z scores were the most accurate at classifying children who were overfat (sensitivity = 0.84, specificity = 0.96 for z score > or = 1). However, using a BMI > or = 85th percentile or a BMI > or = 20 kg/m(2) was also accurate at classifying youth. Discussion The BMI metrics had similar correlations with body fatness, but age- and gender-specific percentiles of BMI were the least accurate proxy measure of body fatness. However, a BMI z score > or = 1, BMI percentile > or = 85, and BMI> or = 20 kg/m(2) are all useful for identifying children who may be overfat.
Dendrite-separator interactions in lithium-based batteries

Abstract The effect of separator pore size on lithium dendrite growth is assessed through the use of the phase field method (PFM). Dendrites are found to undergo concurrent electrodeposition and electrodissolution that define their local growth or shrinkage. Moreover, dendrites are observed to detach due to localized electrodissolution and generate metallic debris that is detrimental to battery performance. A critical current density exists below which dendrites are fully suppressed. An analytical model based on the performed PFM simulations allows to formulate the critical current density as a function of separator morphology and pore radius. Four distinct regimes of dendrite growth are identified: (i) the suppression regime, where dendrite growth is thermodynamically unfavorable; (ii) the permeable regime, where dendrite growth is prohibited beyond the first layer of the separator; (iii) the penetration regime, in which dendrites are stable within the channels of the separator; and (iv) the short circuit regime, where dendrites penetrate the entire width of the separator causing a short circuit. The identification of these regimes serve as a guideline to design improved separators.
N-N∗ interactions with Faddeev equations

Abstract We discuss the problem of whether a two-nucleon bound state or resonance can arise dynamically from the Peierls mechanism - the exchange of a real pion by two nucleons having a resonant interaction with the pion. We examine a number of low partial waves of the nucleon-nucleon-pion system to determine in which states the resonant pion exchange mechanism gives rise to significant attractive forces with the possibility of creating a bound state or resonance. Our principal tool is the non-relativistic Faddeev equation incorporating isospin and spin. We also use a relativistic extension of the Faddeev equations due to Lovelace. The pion-nucleon interaction is represented by a separable potential, but we investigate the sensitivity of the results to the exact form of this interaction. Our principal result for the NNπ system is that there will be no bound states but two broad resonances with isospin two indicated at an energy about 350 MeV above the nucleon-nucleon threshold. Spinless bosons of the nucleon mass would have a bound state in a non-relativistic model.
Characterization of metabolic changes during a protocol for inducing lactation ketosis in dairy cows.

Abstract During the 5 wk immediately after parturition, five high producing cows that were overfed prepartum completed a protocol for inducement of ketosis. By 12 d postpartum, hepatic glycogen decreased by 75% and hepatic triglyceride, β -hydroxybutyrate, and acetoacetate increased by 6, 4, and 2.5 times. The protocol, initiated at 2 wk postpartum, consisted of a 15 to 20% decrease from ad libitum feed intake plus dietary supplementation with 1,3-butanediol, a ketogenic substrate. Severity of the ketotic state increased gradually, and four cows developed clinical signs of ketosis at an average of 36 d postpartum. Glycogen was 90% depleted, and triglycerides, β -hydroxybutyrate, and acetoacetate concentrations in liver were increased to 10, 10, and 15 times above average prepartum concentrations. In plasma, β -hydroxybutyrate increased and glucose decreased. Plasma insulin exhibited an initial postpartal decrease (40%) but then was stable at that concentration through 36 d. After treatment for ketosis, glucose and insulin concentrations of plasma were greater than prepartal concentrations. Results indicate that a relatively simple protocol of prolonged energy deficit combined with an influx of ketone body precursors can induce experimental lactation ketosis in overfed cows. The protocol should be a valuable tool for ketosis research.
Incidental finding of Chiari I malformation with progression of symptoms after head trauma: Case report

Chiari I malformation (CMI) is a neurologic structural anomaly involving cerebellar herniation through the foramen magnum. It is most commonly diagnosed in adult patients who are often asymptomatic. Although there are several case reports of sudden death and neurologic deficits after minor head trauma in patients with CMI, little is known about the effects of trauma on CMI. This case describes a woman with chronic headaches who had an incidental finding of CMI with obstructive hydrocephalus and progression of symptoms after minor head trauma.
ASSOCIATION OF REDUCED CARBON MONOXIDE DIFFUSING CAPACITY WITH MODERATE OR SEVERE LEFT VENTRICULAR DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION IN OBESE PERSONS

Study objectives To determine the association of reduced diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (D lco ) with moderate or severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in obese persons. Design We investigated the association of D lco with LVDD in 105 patients with a mean ± SD body mass index of 49 ± 5 kg/m2. An abnormal D lco was lco was normal or abnormal. Setting A university hospital. Patients The 105 patients included 19 men and 86 women (mean age, 45 ± 9 years). Results An abnormal D lco was present in 62 of 105 patients (59%). Moderate or severe LVDD was present in 35 of 105 patients (33%). Moderate or severe LVDD was present in 25 of 62 patients (40%) with an abnormal D lco and in 10 of 43 patients (23%) with a normal D lco (p Conclusion Obese patients with a decreased D lco have an increased prevalence of moderate or severe LVDD.
The Wage-Price SpiralIndustrial Country Evidence and Implications

Using quarterly time-series data for a sample of twelve industrial countries, the paper investigates the dynamics of nominal wage and price adjustments in the face of aggregate demand shocks. The evidence illustrates patterns of the wage-price spiral and accompanying fluctuations. During economic expansions, the overlap of nominal adjustments in labor and product markets prolongs output expansion while maintaining or increasing the standard of living. In contrast, structural and institutional settings appear to have moderated the severity of the effects of contractionary demand shocks on real output growth and the standard of living in the variety of countries under investigation.
Associations of self-reported sleep duration and snoring with colorectal cancer risk in men and women.

Study objectives We assessed the relationship between sleep duration, snoring and colorectal cancer risk. Design Prospective cohort studies. Setting United States. Participants A total of 30,121 men aged 41 to 79 years in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study and 76,368 women aged 40 to 73 years in the Nurses' Health Study. Interventions None. Measurements and results We queried information on sleep duration and snoring in 1986/87. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate multivariable hazard ratios (HRs, 95% CIs). We documented 1,973 incident colorectal cancer cases (709 men and 1,264 women) over a 22-year follow-up period. Compared to sleep an average 7 h, ≥ 9 h of sleep was significantly associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer among men (HR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.82), and to a lesser degree, among women (HR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.85, 1.44). The risk associated with longer sleep was restricted to individuals who regularly snored (men: HR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.14, 2.84; women: HR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.24, 4.36) and to overweight individuals (i.e., BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) (men: HR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.21; women: HR = 1.37, 95% CI: 0.97, 1.94). Short sleep duration (≤ 5 h) was not associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer in the entire sample or in subgroups stratified by snoring or BMI. Conclusions Longer sleep duration was associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer among individuals who were overweight or snored regularly. This observation raises the possibility that sleep apnea and its attendant intermittent hypoxemia may contribute to cancer risk.
Agmatine transport into spinal nerve terminals is modulated by polyamine analogs

Agmatine (decarboxylated arginine) is an endogenous amine found in the CNS that antagonizes NMDA receptors and inhibits nitric oxide synthase. Intrathecally administered agmatine inhibits hyperalgesia evoked by inflammation, nerve injury and intrathecally administered NMDA. These actions suggest an antiglutamatergic neuromodulatory role for agmatine in the spinal cord. Such a function would require a mechanism of regulated clearance of agmatine such as neuronal or glial uptake. Consistent with this concept, radiolabeled agmatine has been shown to accumulate in synaptosomes, but the mechanism of this transport has not been fully characterized. The present study describes an agmatine uptake system in spinal synaptosomes that appears driven by a polyamine transporter. [(3)H]Agmatine uptake was Ca(2+), energy and temperature dependent. [(3)H]Agmatine transport was not moderated by L-arginine, L-glutamate, glycine, GABA, norepinephrine or serotonin. In contrast, [(3)H]agmatine uptake was concentration dependently inhibited by unlabeled putrescine and by unlabeled spermidine (at significantly higher concentrations). Similarly, [(3)H]putrescine uptake was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by unlabeled agmatine and spermidine. The polyamine analogs paraquat and methylglyoxal bis (guanylhydrazone) inhibited, whereas the polyamine transport enhancer difluoromethylornithine increased, [(3)H]agmatine transport. Taken together, these results suggest that agmatine transport into spinal synaptosomes may be governed by a polyamine transport mechanism.
Survival Rates after Acute Myocardial Infarction with Long-Term Anticoagulant Therapy

Evidence is set forth to show the value of continuous long-term anticoagulant therapy by comparison with a control group of patients who have also had multiple coronary occlusions or single infarcts, followed by severe angina pectoris or episodes of coronary failure. Statistical life-estimate determinations are included. Bleeding complications are encountered less frequently with improved methods of management and are considered a justifiable risk, in view of the serious consequences of the natural progress of the disease. After a program of long-term anticoagulant treatment has been instituted, cessation of therapy may be hazardous.
A layered control architecture for single-operator control of heterogeneous unmanned system teams

The widespread adoption of aerial, ground and sea-borne unmanned systems (UMS) for national security applications provides many advantages; however, effectively controlling large numbers of UMS in complex environments with modest manpower is a significant challenge. A control architecture and associated control methods are under development to allow a single user to control a team of multiple heterogeneous UMS as they conduct multi-faceted (i.e. multi-objective) missions in real time. The control architecture is hierarchical, modular and layered and enables operator interaction at each layer, ensuring the human operator is in close control of the unmanned team at all times. The architecture and key data structures are introduced. Two approaches to distributed collaborative control of heterogeneous unmanned systems are described, including an extension of homogeneous swarm control and a novel application of distributed model predictive control. Initial results are presented, demonstrating heterogeneous UMS teams conducting collaborative missions. Future work will focus on interacting with dynamic targets, integrating alternative control layers, and enabling a deeper and more intimate level of real-time operator control.
The effect of hemin on globin synthesis and iron uptake by reticulocytes of the Belgrade rat

The anemia of the Belgrade laboratory rat is an autosomal recessive trait (gene symbol b)-determined by a radiation-induced mutation (l-31 . It is characterized by red-cell hypochromia and microcytosis, reti~ulocytosis, hyperfe~nemia, absent tissue iron stores and high levels of free erythrocyte protoporphyrin 12-41. Uptake of iron by b/b reticulocytes in vitro is about 25% normal, and synthesis of globin is about 50% normal 151. The primary defect therefore appears to be a defiled delivery of iron to the erythroid cell 1.51. A primary defect in globin synthesis, however, with a secondary effect on iron uptake has not been entirely excluded. The present study demonstrates that exogenous hemin partially corrects the globin synthesis defect of b/b reticulocytes. Since the iron delivery step is bypassed with exogenous hemin, this observation provides indirect evidence that the primary abnormality is one of diminished delivery of iron to the erythroid cell.
Collapse, environment, and society

Historical collapse of ancient states poses intriguing social-ecological questions, as well as potential applications to global change and contemporary strategies for sustainability. Five Old World case studies are developed to identify interactive inputs, triggers, and feedbacks in devolution. Collapse is multicausal and rarely abrupt. Political simplification undermines traditional structures of authority to favor militarization, whereas disintegration is preconditioned or triggered by acute stress (insecurity, environmental or economic crises, famine), with breakdown accompanied or followed by demographic decline. Undue attention to stressors risks underestimating the intricate interplay of environmental, political, and sociocultural resilience in limiting the damages of collapse or in facilitating reconstruction. The conceptual model emphasizes resilience, as well as the historical roles of leaders, elites, and ideology. However, a historical model cannot simply be applied to contemporary problems of sustainability without adjustment for cumulative information and increasing possibilities for popular participation. Between the 14th and 18th centuries, Western Europe responded to environmental crises by innovation and intensification; such modernization was decentralized, protracted, flexible, and broadly based. Much of the current alarmist literature that claims to draw from historical experience is poorly focused, simplistic, and unhelpful. It fails to appreciate that resilience and readaptation depend on identified options, improved understanding, cultural solidarity, enlightened leadership, and opportunities for participation and fresh ideas.
Envelope reconstruction of probe microscope images

Abstract Scanning probe microscope images often contain distortions caused by the finite size and imperfect shape of probe tips. Previous reports show that if the shape of the probe tip is known, these distortions can be accounted for, and an undistorted image of the sample can be reconstructed. Existing reconstruction methods are formally complete and correct, but in practice they rely on numerical derivatives of the image data and are sensitive to noise. In the present work a new method (“envelope image analysis”) is developed, in which a reconstructed image is synthesized from the original, distorted image as the envelope of a set of tip surface functions. The new method is essentially equivalent to the existing methods, but does not require numerical derivatives and is insensitive to noise. Variants of the new approach can also be used to create artificial probe microscope images from models, or to reconstruct the shape of the probe tip from an image of a known sample. As examples, the new envelope methods are applied to two specific problems: (1) the reconstruction and interpretation of scanning force microscope images of actin filaments, and (2) determining the shape of the probe tip from an image of a known grating structure.
Immunocytochemical colocalization of progestin receptors and β‐endorphin or enkephalin in the hypothalamus of female guinea pigs

Double-label immunocytochemistry was used to determine whether estradiol-induced progestin receptors and either beta-endorphin or leucine-enkephalin are colocalized in female guinea pig brain. Ovariectomized, adult guinea pigs were implanted with capsules containing estradiol-17 beta to induce high levels of progestin receptors, and injected intracerebroventricularly with colchicine to improve visualization of the opiate peptides. Sections through the hypothalamus and preoptic area were processed for progestin receptor, followed by beta-endorphin or leucine-enkephalin immunocytochemistry. As reported previously, high concentrations of progestin receptor-immunoreactive (PR-IR) cells were found in the preoptic area (medial and periventricular portions, medial preoptic nucleus) and hypothalamus (anterior hypothalamic and arcuate nuclei, ventrolateral area). Many beta-endorphin-IR cells contained PR-IR in the arcuate nucleus and its surroundings (33%) and in the dorsomedial area of the hypothalamus (64%). Scattered enkephalin-IR cells were found in the septal nucleus, medial and lateral preoptic area, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and the arcuate nucleus. The ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus and dorsolateral magnocellular nucleus, respectively, contained moderate and heavy concentrations of enkephalin-IR cells. Although some of these areas also contained PR-IR, enkephalin-IR was colocalized consistently with PR-IR only in a small number of cells in the arcuate nucleus and ventromedial/ventrolateral area of the hypothalamus. These data, taken together with earlier observations that virtually all cells containing estradiol-induced PR-IR also contain estrogen receptor-IR, provide neuroanatomical evidence that hypothalamic actions of progesterone and estradiol may be mediated by beta-endorphin and/or enkephalin.
1-to-40 channel multicasting in wideband parametric amplifier

All optical multicasting using one-pump modulated parametric optical amplifier is reported. For a 10 Gb/s NRZ system, 1:40 multicasting is demonstrated with less than 0.5 dB power penalty and minimum 12.5 dB conversion efficiency.
Influence of In-House Attending Presence on Trauma Outcomes and Hospital Efficiency

Background The influence of in-house (IH) attendings on trauma patient survival and efficiency measures, such as emergency department length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, and hospital LOS, has been debated for more than 20 years. No study has definitively shown improved outcomes with IH vs home-call attendings. This study examines trauma outcomes in a single, Level I trauma center before and after the institution of IH attending call. Study Design Patient data were collected from the University of Kentucky's trauma registry. Based on the Trauma-Related Injury Severity Score, survival rates were compared between the IH and home-call groups. To evaluate efficiency, emergency department LOS, ICU LOS, and hospital LOS were compared. A separate subanalysis for the most severely injured patients (trauma alert red) was also performed. Results The home-call group (n = 4,804) was younger (p = 0.018) and had a higher Injury Severity Score (p = 0.003) than the IH group (n = 5259), but there was no difference in Trauma-Related Injury Severity Score (p = 0.205) between groups. In-house attending presence did not reduce mortality. Emergency department LOS, ICU LOS, and hospital LOS were shorter during the IH period. Emergency department to operating room time was not different. There was no change in trauma alert red mortality with an attending present (20.7% vs 18.2%, p = 0.198). Conclusions In-house attending presence does not improve trauma patient survival. For the most severely injured patients, attendings presence does not reduce mortality. In-house coverage can improve hospital efficiency by decreasing emergency department LOS, hospital LOS, and ICU LOS.
Design considerations and a suggested approach for regional and comparative ecological risk assessment

(1997). Design considerations and a suggested approach for regional and comparative ecological risk assessment. Human and Ecological Risk Assessment: An International Journal: Vol. 3, No. 3, pp. 287-297.
Cross-validation of a modified score to predict mortality in cancer patients admitted to the intensive care unit.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to cross-validate an automated and customized severity of illness score as a means of predicting death among adult cancer patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective study of ICU discharges between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2005, in a university comprehensive cancer center. We randomly selected training and validation samples in 2 ICU groups (medical and surgical patients). We used logistic regression to calculate the probabilities of death in the ICU and in-hospital death in training samples and applied these probabilities to the validation samples to calculate sensitivity and specificity, construct curves, and determined the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results We included 6880 patients. In predicting ICU mortality, the AUC was 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73-0.82) for the medical validation group and 0.8207 (95% CI, 0.7304-0.9109) for the surgical validation group. For in-hospital mortality, the AUCs for the groups of medical and surgical patients were 0.73 (95% CI, 0.69-0.76) and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.73-0.80), respectively. Conclusions The modified Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score is a good and valid predictor of cancer patients' risk of dying in the ICU and/or hospital despite the modifications needed to automate the score using existing electronic data.
The end of equilibrium

Abstract An overview of the proceedings of the 1992 Geomorphology symposium on Geomorphic Systems several trends. First, there is a pervasive concern with the presence and nature of geomorphic equilibria. However, the focus is not on detection of a single, stable equilibrium condition for geomorphic systems, but on the behavior of systems away from equilibrium, the presence and prevalence of dis- and nonequilibrium forms, and the presence of multiple equilibria for a given systems. A second major theme is the nonlinear behavior of geomorphic systems. This nonlinearity provides a bridge between existing threshold concepts in the discipline and the emerging study of earth surface phenomena as complex nonlinear dynamical systems. In connection with this, the critical role of feedback mechanisms in geomorphic systems emerges as a third general theme. Finally, a number of papers implicity or explicity raise the possibility of universality -i.e., that there are universal properties of geomorphic system behavior independent of location- and time-specific controls. Taken as a whole, the symposium papers are interpreted as signalling the possible end of classic equilibrium studies in the sense of searching for a single or typical equilibrium response to a given set of processes or controls. Conceptual frameworks which emphasize, or at least include, nonequilibrium responses and multiple equilibria are on the ascension. Historical perspectives suggest that these new developments are not necessarily inconsistent with prevailing and traditional geomorphic thought.
Manager, political activist, labour leader, statesman: all in one lifetime

Traces the career of the remarkable Asa Philip Randolph, who was many things to many people. He was a tireless crusader for African‐American rights, a strategic manager and planner, a political activist, and a labour leader. Many of the changes he brought about and many of the conditions he created in the above areas continue to shape US culture today. Highlights the contributions he made to US society.
Kinesin Motors: No Strain, No Gain

The processive movement of the dimeric motor protein kinesin 1 along microtubules requires communication between the two motor domains. Yildiz et al. (2008) now show that tension between the motor domains not only is necessary for normal processivity but also may be sufficient for motor motility under some conditions.
Vaginismus: A review

Vaginismus includes both physical as well as psychological aspects that make vaginal penetration extremely painful if not altogether impossible. Aside from history, diagnosis rests on the physical examination. The causes for the condition range from the deeply psychological to vividly recalled genital experiences and may involve conditioned responses. Similarly, treatment methods range from surgery to simple muscle-strengthening exercises to elaborate psychotherapeutic intervention. More recently, behavioral methods have shown marked success. The most important considerations in therapy seem to be the patient's understanding of the problem and flexibility of approach.
Stress-Assisted Diffusion of Boron and Arsenic in Silicon

The diffusion of B and As in mechanically stressed silicon has been investigated for initial implant doses of 1013, 1014, and 1015 cm−2, over a range of annealing temperatures. At stresses near the silicon yield point, no significant enhancement or retardation was observed. This was true even in plastically deformed samples with dislocation densities >1×107 cm−2. The results are consistent with the multiple charge state vacancy model of impurity diffusion in silicon. The B diffusivity appears to agree with the accepted activation energy of 3.59 eV and pre-exponential of 3.17cm2/sec for intrinsic B diffusion.
A self-assembly pathway to aligned monodomain gels

Aggregates of charged amphiphilic molecules have been found to access a structure at elevated temperature that templates alignment of supramolecular fibrils over macroscopic scales. The thermal pathway leads to a lamellar plaque structure with fibrous texture that breaks on cooling into large arrays of aligned nanoscale fibres and forms a strongly birefringent liquid. By manually dragging this liquid crystal from a pipette onto salty media, it is possible to extend this alignment over centimetres in noodle-shaped viscoelastic strings. Using this approach, the solution of supramolecular filaments can be mixed with cells at physiological temperatures to form monodomain gels of aligned cells and filaments. The nature of the self-assembly process and its biocompatibility would allow formation of cellular wires in situ that have any length and customized peptide compositions for use in biological applications.
Anxiety and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: prevalence, impact, and treatment.

Objective This article reviews the prevalence of anxiety disorders in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as well as the impact of comorbid anxiety on quality of life in patients with COPD. Published studies on three types of treatments for anxiety are then reviewed: psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Materials and methods A PubMed search was conducted of the literature from 1966 through 2002 using the keywords anxiety, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respiratory diseases, obstructive lung diseases, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Any articles that discussed the prevalence of anxiety symptoms or anxiety disorders among patients with COPD, the impact of anxiety on patients with COPD, or the treatment of anxiety in COPD patients were included in this review. Results Anxiety disorders, especially generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder, occur at a higher rate in patients with COPD compared with the general population. Not surprisingly, anxiety has a significant and negative impact on quality of life of COPD patients. Nonetheless, few studies have examined pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, or pulmonary rehabilitation treatments for anxiety disorders in the context of COPD. Trials of nortriptyline, buspirone, and sertraline have been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Similarly, cognitive-behavioral programs that focus on relaxation and changes in thinking also produced declines in anxious symptoms. Finally, multicomponent pulmonary rehabilitation programs can also result in reductions in anxious symptoms. Conclusions Studies examining the treatment of anxiety disorders in patients with COPD are promising, yet their efficacy needs to be established. The long-term effects of treatment of anxiety disorders on quality of life of COPD patients have yet to be explored.
Fetal damage caused by parvoviral infections

The single-stranded DNA parvoviruses occur in humans and many species of animals. In general, they are species-specific and capable of producing disease at any stage of life. Parvoviruses have a requirement to replicate in cells in a permissive S-phase of DNA mitosis. The infections may be cytolytic to select cell groups resulting in specific developmental defects or may produce more generalized effects such as anemia, pancytopenia, or hemorrhage. The fetus is at particular risk for damage because of the vast number of cells in active mitosis. The teratogenic effects may be severe, often resulting in fetal death. Infections in childhood and adulthood are more frequently mild to subclinical. Some of the teratogenic effects recognized in animal species have been identified in humans. With increased knowledge of parvovirus effects in animals, more pathogenic effects may be related to human parvoviral disease. The need for vaccination, currently used annually in many domestic animal species, continues to be evaluated for humans.
Small group discussion versus the lecture method: A study in individual decision making

(1970). Small group discussion versus the lecture method: A study in individual decision making. Western Speech: Vol. 34, No. 1, pp. 38-45.
Study on security of Wireless Sensor Networks in smart grid

WSNs (Wireless Sensor Networks) have been considered one of the very promising technologies for the implementation of smart grid. And security of WSNs becomes a central concern. The security solutions for generic wireless sensor networks cannot be directly used in smart grid WSNs. In this paper, the applications of sensor networks in electric power systems are discussed and analyzed first. Then, the characteristics of smart grid WSNs are summarized. Threats and security requirements special for wireless sensor networks used in smart grid systems are presented. Based on these works, reference security architecture was proposed to guide the development and the design of the security solutions of wireless sensor networks in smart grid systems, considering the information security requirements of electric power systems. Moreover, open security issues needed solve to protect WSNs applied in smart grid, and research challenges are introduced.
THE INHIBITION OF THE ACTION OF THE FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE BY THE PITUITARY1

WE HAVE REPORTED that the injection of an estrogen (amniotin) into immature female rats for 3 days previous to treatment with the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH),resulted in an increased ovarian response to the FSH and marked luteiniztion; this was in contrast with the purely follicular response to FSH in rats without estrogen treatment (1). The ovaries of hypophysectomised rats, similarily treated with estrogen and FSH, showed no augmentation or luteinization so the obvious conclusion was that the effect of the estrogen was on the pituitary, stimulating it to secrete LH. However, if the treatment with the estrogen was continued for 8 days, the ovarian response to subsequent FSH treatment was decreased rather than increased. We were at a loss to explain this inhibition except on the possible basis of secretory exhaustion but Evans et al. (2) have suggested that it might be due to an increased secretion of the ‘antagonist’ which they have reported separating from the other gonadotropic hormones of the p...