cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Behavior of A265 Single Fibers

The mechanical behavior of A265 high-performance fibers was experimentally investigated at both low and high strain rates. Axial, transverse, and torsional experiments were performed to measure the five material constants on a single fiber assumed as a linear, transversely isotropic material. In order to determine the tensile response of the fiber at high rates, a modified Kolsky tensile bar, also known as a split Hopkinson tension bar (SHTB) for single-fiber tests, was used. The diameter of each fiber was measured individually using a high-resolution scanning electron microscope for accurate stress calculation. A pulse shaper technique was adopted to generate a smooth and constant-amplitude incident pulse to produce deformation in the fiber specimen at a nearly constant strain rate. The tensile strength of the fiber exhibits both rate and gage-length effects.
Simultaneous estimation of several nitrogen cycle rates using 15N: Theory and application

Abstract Principles of isotope dilution, modeling, and nonlinear parameter estimation were used to simultaneously determine N cycle rates. Analysis of the sensitivity coefficients for the models used in this study demonstrated that the four parameters of interest—the rates or rate constants of mineralization, immobilization, nitrification, and denitrification—were estimable. This analysis also illustrated which sampling design would be best for the experiments performed. We found that both zero- and first-order models could describe N cycling, with the first-order model being more generally appropriate. The estimates obtained for mineralization, immobilization, and nitrification had relatively small standard errors; however, denitrification parameters were poorly estimated. This is due in part to the much lower rate of denitrification (~1000 times smaller) when compared to the rates of the other processes and also to the insensitivity of the measured responses to changes in the denitrification parameter. The rates or rate constants for the four processes compared favorably with those reported by others. Highest nitrification rates were found in agricultural soils [1–5 and 1–34 mg N kg−1 day−1) compared with a forest soil ( 500 μg N kg−1day−1) than in the coarser textured soils (~10 μg N kg−1day−1). Some experimental data could not be fit with zero- or first-order kinetics, however this was most likely because the model did not account for all of the processes occurring in these soils, rather than limitations to the parameter estimation procedure itself. Even with the relatively high degree of experimental variability inherent in measuring N pool sizes and 15N ratios, reasonably good parameter estimates were obtained in these laboratory incubations, demonstrating the feasibility of simultaneously estimating the rates of several N cycle processes. The trends in N cycle rates among the soils investigated were consistent with those normally associated with forest and agricultural soils, further corroborating the utility of this method.
Twenty-five years of Atlantic basin seasonal hurricane forecasts (1984―2008)

[1] The Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University, led by Dr. William Gray, has been issuing Atlantic basin seasonal hurricane forecasts in early June and early August since 1984. This paper examines the skill of these forecasts over the past twenty-five years (1984–2008) compared with climatology and a previous 3-year, 5-year and 10-year mean. Seasonal forecasts are shown to have smaller mean-squared errors than any of these metrics for most parameters, although improvements have been modest. The forecast models used by the Tropical Meteorology Project have changed over time, and the current early June and early August model's skill at hindcasting the past twenty-five years are investigated using cross-validation. Preliminary research indicates that using these new models may result in more significant skill improvements in future years.
New species of Stenandrium (Acanthaceae) from the Planalto of Brazil.

Three new species ofStenandrium,S. hatschbachii from Minas Gerais,S. goiasense from Goias, andS. irwinii also from Goias, are described, illustrated, and compared with their closest relatives.
Unilateral Four-Muscle Surgery for Large-Angle Exotropia

Eight patients with large-angle exotropia and unimprovable poor vision in one eye were treated with conventional maximum horizontal rectus recession/resection plus weakening of both obliques of the poorly seeing eye. This appears to be a useful alternative to "supermaximal" recession/resection procedures, which are more likely to lead to deficient or restricted rotations. The effect is probably due to the release of additional sites of contracture that occur in the oblique muscles. The principal disadvantage is a small postsurgical hypertropia of the operated eye for which routine infra placement of both horizontal recti can compensate adequately.
RAT: a methodology for predicting performance in application design migration to FPGAs

Before any application is migrated to a reconfigurable computer (RC), it is important to consider its amenability to the hardware paradigm. In order to maximize the probability of success for an application's migration to an FPGA, one must quickly and with a reasonable degree of accuracy analyze not only the performance of the system but also the required precision and necessary resources to support a particular design. This extra preparation is meant to reduce the risk of failure to achieve the application's design requirements (e.g. speed or area) by quantitatively predicting the expected performance and system utilization. This paper presents the RC Amenability Test (RAT), a methodology for rapidly analyzing an application's design compatibility to a specific FPGA platform.
Active distributed sensing using self-heated optical fibers

We report distributed sensing with active control using self-heated optical fibers. The heat loss profile along the fiber is spatially interrogated with OFDR Rayleigh backscattering signals to perform gas flow and liquid level sensing measurements.
Über die Supraleitfähigkeit von Ti- und Zr-Rh-Legierungen

Die Untersuchung der Supraleitfahigkeit in den Systemen Ti- und Zr-Rh ergab einen deutlichen Einflus der Valenzelektronenkonzentration. Sowohl in der hexagonalen dichtest gepacktenα-Phase, als auch in der kubisch raumzentriertenβ-Phase beider Systeme nimmt die Sprungtemperatur mit der Valenzelektronenkonzentration zu. Die hypothetische Sprungtemperatur der Rh-freienβ-Phasen des Ti bzw. Zr liegt tiefer, als die der hexagonalenα-Phase.
Phase relations for high frequency core–mantle coupling and the Earth’s axial angular momentum budget

Abstract Although it has long been thought that dynamical core–mantle coupling is necessary for understanding decadal variations in the length of day (LOD), the physics of the coupling mechanism are very poorly constrained. There several hypotheses — electromagnetic, topographic, gravitational, viscous — but it is notoriously difficult to distinguish between them on observational grounds. There is both an expectation [Geophys. J. Int. 138 (1999) 679] and some evidence [J. Geophys. Res. 100 (1995) 8233; Geophys. Res. Lett. 24 (1997a) 1799] that there is significant core–mantle coupling on much faster timescales, down to subannual periods. At such frequencies, the core would no longer be the dominant driving force for LOD, but would instead interact with both the mantle and external reservoirs of angular momentum such as the atmosphere and ocean. On these much faster timescales, it is possible that some information that is obscured on decadal timescales becomes available: in particular, any characteristic timescales at very short periods may become observable. Here, I examine the angular momentum budget of the Earth on subannual to annual timescales for any additional implied constraints on the physics of angular momentum exchange between the core and the mantle. I find that the discrepancy between atmospheric angular momentum and mantle angular momentum on timescales where the ocean is thought to be unimportant has a distinctive signature which is difficult to reproduce using simple models of core–mantle coupling, although an ad hoc “frictional” model does moderately well. Rather than indicating simplicity, this may instead be symptomatic of great complexity in the physics of the core–mantle boundary region.
Clinicians' Experiences of a Podcast Series on Implementing a Manualized Treatment

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore clinicians' experiences of using Podcasts to assist with implementing an evidence-based practice (EBP). Twelve clinicians, including eight student interns, at a human service organization were interviewed about their perceptions of using Podcasts about implementing an EBP called Grief and Trauma Intervention (GTI) for Children. Major themes included that the Podcasts were helpful, liked the short length, fit their learning styles, useful teaching tool, wanted more clinical content and more engaging material, and that administrative support was important for use. Technological difficulties were a major barrier to use. There were some differences in experiences of the Podcasts between post-masters professionals and interns. Podcasts may be a useful technology to help clinicians implement EBPs, and future research on Podcast use is warranted.
An indeterminate occlusion duration predicts procedural failure in the recanalization of coronary chronic total occlusions.

Objectives: To identify the impact of occlusion duration (OD) and, in particular, an indeterminate occlusion duration (IOD) on immediate angiographic success and long-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: From May 2003 to October 2006, all patients having PCI for a CTO were consecutively registered. In addition to an assessment of procedural outcomes, patients were followed long-term for occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Results: 202 consecutive patients were included. Of these, 123 (60.9%) had a known OD while in the remaining 79 (39.1%), OD was indeterminate. Overall technical success was 82.7% and was lower in the IOD group (70.9% vs. 90.2%, P = 0.0004). An IOD was a predictor of procedural failure (adjusted OR 4.51, 95% CI 1.7–11.5, P = 0.002). An IOD (HR 2.59, 95%CI 1.08–6.23, P = 0.032) and procedural success (HR 0.26, 95%CI 0.11–0.60, P = 0.002) were the only independent predictors of long-term MACE. Patients with a failed PCI and an IOD had a 5-fold increased risk of MACE compared to those with known OD (37.0% vs. 7.1%, log rank P = 0.0036). Conclusions: In addition to the traditional predictors of procedural success and clinical outcome, this study, for the first time uncovered the importance of OD and, in particular, of an IOD. Still, in patients who are successfully recanalized, a long or IOD bears the same low rate of MACE as the general CTO population while in patients with failed PCI, an IOD carries a considerable risk of adverse prognosis. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Dynamic Stability of Rotor/Stator Radial Rubs in Rotating Machinery

The classic phenomenon of “dry friction whip,” generally associated with unlubricated journal bearings, is here reconsidered as playing an important role in the dynamic stability, and consequent integrity of radial rubs in all close clearance rotating machinery, particularly in turbomachinery elements such as labyrinth seals and blade tips. A simple analysis is completed for large (runaway) amplitudes of whipping on an analytic model which includes the stator as an independent dynamic system. Whirl frequencies are computed as a function of rotor and stator natural frequencies and damping. A stability criterion is developed as a function of these same variables. Testing on a simple experimental model gives general qualitative agreement to predicted trends, but is not conclusive quantitatively, probably because of the difficulty in simulating pure Coulomb friction at the rubbing interface. The simple generality that can be inferred from the set of derived stability criteria is that the broadest band of whip-free rubbing is achieved if rotor and stator dampings are made close to one another, and if the rotor and stator natural frequencies are kept dissimilar. Systems with identical rotor and stator natural frequencies are always unstable, and will whip at that same natural frequency. Systems with large stator damping will whip at rotor natural frequency. Systems with large rotor damping will whip at stator natural frequency.
Men in Eden: William Drummond Stewart and Same‐Sex Desire in the Rocky Mountain Fur Trade. By William Benemann. (Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press, 2012. Pp. 384. $29.95.)

Sir William Drummond Stewart, a nineteenth‐century Scottish adventurer, undertook several treks into the “Far West” between 1832 and 1843. He is notable mainly because he hired a Baltimore artist, ...
The relationship between visual acuity and performance on patterned string problems by infrahuman primates

Data from previous visual acuity studies on the chimpanzee, cebus, rhesus, and squirrel monkeys were compared to data from patterned string performance by these species. The hypothesis that visual acuity may be a component in the performance of patterned string problems by infrahuman primates was suggested.
Production and fate of the sea lamprey migratory pheromone.

Biochemical studies demonstrate that three steroids postulated to function as the sea lamprey migratory pheromone are released in sufficient quantities, and possess adequate stability and binding characteristics, to function as a multi-component pheromone in natural river waters. Mass spectrometric (MS) analyses of the holding water of recently fed larval lamprey demonstrated that each of these compounds is released at rates of 5–25 ng larva−1 h−1, adequate to produce picomolar (biologically relevant) concentrations in river waters. Petromyzonamine disulfate (PSDS) was released at about twice the rate of the other two components, petromyzonamine disulfate (PADS) and petromyzonol sulfate (PS). Unfed larvae also released all three steroids but only at about two-thirds the rate of fed larvae and in a different ratio. However, a behavioral test of fed and unfed larval holding waters suggested this change in pheromone ratio does not diminish pheromonal signal function in the winter when larvae are not feeding. A study of steroid degradation found that PADS and PSDS had half-lives of about 3 days, similar to values previously described for PS and sufficiently slow for the entire pheromone to persist in river mouths. Finally, both MS and electro-olfactogram recording found that contrary to previous suggestions, natural levels of natural organic matter found in streams do not bind to these steroids in ways that diminish their natural biological potency. In conclusion, it appears highly likely that a mixture of PADS, PSDS and PS is present at biologically relevant concentrations and ratios in many Great Lakes streams where it functions as a pheromonal attractant.
Sobolev preconditioning for the Poisson–Boltzmann equation

Abstract This paper presents an overview of least-squares steepest descent using Sobolev gradients for several prototype differential equations. In the linear case, the method is viewed as a very effective preconditioning strategy for the basic iterative method which arises from steepest descent, in particular, it acts to smooth the Euclidean gradient. Results are given for the one-dimensional Possion–Boltzmann equation from semiconductor device modeling.
The Role of Oral Contraceptives in the Treatment of Hyperandrogenic Disorders

The clinical manifestations associated with hyperandrogenism, such as hirsutism and acne, are disturbing to most patients. In addition to correcting androgen-related problems, concerns such as contraception or other metabolic problems (for example, lipid/lipoprotein abnormalities, diabetes, hypertension) associated with these disorders and the effects of unopposed estrogen on the endometrium also need to be considered. Oral contraceptives are a therapeutic modality that may address these multiple problems. The potential mechanisms of action by which oral contraceptives correct excess androgen states include gonadotropin suppression, reduction of circulating androgens, increased androgen binding, suppression of adrenal androgen secretion and inhibition of 5α-reductase, and androgen receptor binding. In normal women, there is good evidence that these actions occur with the use of oral contraceptives. Among women with anovulatory hyperandrogenic states, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, the response to oral contraceptives in each of these areas is somewhat more variable. However, oral contraceptive preparations that are more estrogen dominant appear to produce many of the desired effects. From a clinical standpoint, 60–100% of women with hirsutism improve on oral contraceptives; acne shows improvement in a high percentage of women as well. The use of oral contraceptives also reduces the risk of endometrial hyperplasia that may be associated with anovulatory states. Finally, current low-dose preparations containing the newer progestins (for example, norgestimate and desogestrel) appear to be either neutral, or perhaps beneficial, with respect to their metabolic impact.
Stress analysis of halo pin insertion by non-linear finite element modeling.

Abstract Halo fixation is associated with a high complication rate. The most common complications are loose pins and pin site infections believed to be exacerbated by loose pins. Although pin designs and the technique of pin insertion have changed little in over 30 years, the pin/skull mechanics are poorly understood. Halo pin insertion was modeled using nonlinear finite element analyses to determine the stress distribution in the human skull underlying and surrounding the point of pin fixation. Model validity was established by comparing pin insertion depth and the profile of the hole generated in the bone to the results of experimental mechanical tests. The region surrounding the pin tip within 1 mm was found to undergo plastic deformation and compressive loading in excess of the compressive yield strength of cortical bone. The implication is that damaged bone in this region is responsible for the high incidence of halo pin loosening. Resorption or migration of bone particles with periodie relief of compression in this region due to daily cyclic forces might result in an enlarged pin site and eventually, a loose pin.
Initial report of quantification of retinal blood flow velocity in normal human subjects using the Retinal Functional Imager (RFI)

The Retinal Functional Imager (RFI) is a novel method for assessing retinal blood flow (RBF) velocity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate RBF velocities in normal human retinas using the RFI. RBF velocity measurements were performed in normal subjects using the RFI (Optical Imaging Ltd., Rehovot, Israel) at the Retina Center of The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, USA. Using proprietary software processing, the characteristics of the RBF were visualized and measured. The study population comprised fifty-four eyes of 27 normal subjects (20 male and 34 female). The average arterial blood flow velocity was 4.6 ± 0.6 mm/s in males and 4.8 ± 0.7 mm/s in females (the difference was not statistically significant, p value = 0.27). The average venous blood flow velocity was 3.8 ± 0.5 mm/s in males and 3.6 ± 0.4 mm/s in females (the difference again was not statistically significant, p value = 0.11). The average arterial blood flow velocity was 4.8 ± 0.5 mm/s in the right eye and 4.6 ± 0.7 mm/s in the left eye. The average venous blood flow velocity was 3.7 ± 0.4 mm/s in the right eye and 3.6 ± 0.3 mm/s in the left eye. Venous and arterial blood flow velocities were found to be faster in the right eye than in the left eye in our sample, but the differences were not statistically significant (p value = 0.53 and 0.33, respectively). This is the first report of quantification of the RBF using the RFI. The RFI appears to be an effective tool in quantitative evaluations of RBF velocities. The values from the study constitute a normative database which can be used to evaluate and compare eyes with known or suspected pathology.
Conduction electron polarization, magnetization densities and neutron magnetic form factors in metals

Abstract The problem of setting up “itinerant” and “localized” descriptions of 3d, 4f and 5f electron states is discussed. Recent band-theory predictions of conduction-electron polarization, magnetization density and the neutron magnetic form factor for various metals are described. Comparisons of theory with experiment show good agreement, and confirm our ideas on the range of validity of the energy-band description.
Multi-site on-chip current sensor for electromigration monitoring

An on-chip current measurement method that is suitable for electromigration management is introduced. Rather than inserting a shunt in the current flow path for creating a voltage drop, the voltage drop across existing interconnects is used to determine the current flow. Current is measured with a MOSFET-only sensing circuit that provides 9 bits of resolution with midrange current levels at the threshold where electromigration concerns become relevant. This current sensor can be used for sensing currents in either VDD or VSS busses and is targeted for use in the power power/thermal management units in integrated circuits. Simulation results show the DNL/INL of this sensor is within +0.15/−0.3 LSB. The current sensor is robust to local mismatch. The small area and low power dissipation makes the structure suitable for multiple-site on-chip current measurements.
Longitudinal spacial first-order phase transition in a system of coherently-driven, two-level atoms

Abstract A spacially extended system of two-level atoms interacting with a resonant electromagnetic field exhibits conditions for which two phases, of high and low excitation, coexist spacially, in the direction of propagation in the material. The spacial first-order phase transition and its properties are related to an inversion-dependent renormalization of the resonance frequency, which becomes significant for a collection of two-level atoms with high density and large oscillator strengths.
Vertical Split Rim Failure Analysis in Railroad Wheels

Vertical split rim cracking, rapid unstable propagation of a sub-surface crack parallel to the front rim face, is one of the dominant railroad wheel failure types observed in North America. Wheel impact load is believed to be a trigger for this unstable crack growth. This rapid crack growth rate depends on several factors, such as wheel geometry (wheel diameter and rim thickness), load magnitude, load location, residual stresses in the rim, worn tread profile, and material defects in the rim (size, shape, location, and orientation). This paper investigates the effect of these parameters on vertical split rim cracking, using finite element analysis and fracture mechanics. Vertical split rim cracking is modeled using a three-dimensional, multiresolution, elastic-plastic finite element analysis. Material defects are modeled as mathematically sharp cracks. Wheel impacts are simulated by applying a high axle load on the tread surface. The residual stress and wheel wear effects are also included in modeling vertical split rim cracking.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Post-transplant EBV-negative anaplastic large-cell lymphoma with dual rearrangement: a propos of two cases and review of the literature

Background: Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a recognized complication of the immunosuppressive regimens associated with solid organ transplantation. The vast majority of these lesions represent monomorphic B-cell lymphoproliferative disease. Rarely, however, T-cell malignancies may emerge, the commonest being anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL). Materials and methods: We describe two patients who developed a post-transplant ALCL several years after transplantation. Comprehensive phenotypic and molecular studies were conducted. The technique of capillary gel electrophoresis was employed. Results: One patient died of unrelated causes, while the other patient did achieve clinical remission. The neoplastic cell populace was composed of CD4-positive cytotoxic T cells exhibiting CD30 positivity. There were very few B cells. Striking and prominent clonally restricted infiltrates were identified whereby there was both a heavy chain and T-cell beta gene rearrangement. There was no evidence of lytic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Conclusion: T-cell-associated PTLD does not appear to be directly attributable to EBV infection. Iatrogenic immune dysregulation may result in excessive T-cell proliferation to various antigenic stimuli, hence resembling other drug-associated cell lymphoproliferative conditions such as angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy. The dual rearrangement may have some implications regarding the cell of origin.
Cerebral atrophy in hyperammonaemia

Summary The radiological appearances found in two children with a newly recognised abnormality of urea synthesis are described, and the clinical and biochemical findings are mentioned briefly.
CODE PINK: A System for Neonatal Resuscitation

It has been documented that the care given to the high-risk neonate in the first moments after birth correlates with the incidence of mortality and morbidity in the first 24 hours of life. In an effort to reach optimal outcome for each individual infant, Columbia Hospital for Women developed an emergency system for neonatal resuscitation and provided a team of highly skilled professionals to deliver this emergency care. "Code Pink" provided an effective method of reducing mortality and morbidity and improving outcome.
The MAGi RNA extraction method: a highly efficient and simple procedure for fresh and dry plant tissues

BACKGROUND: Samples from different plant species, different organs or tissues at different times of the year, usually show great differences in their cell compositions, pH, and the endogenous RNase activities, decreasing the RNA yield and quality. RESULTS: In this study we describe a reagent and a simple total RNA isolation method for plant organs, tissues and dry seeds. The RNA extraction reagent (MAGi) is non-toxic and can be stored at room temperature for several months to years. The principle of the total RNA extraction is that tissues are lysed in extraction solution with the aid of mortar homogenization–maceration, and cellular proteins, polysaccharides and DNA are removed from the RNA. We tested the reported method on more than 16 different types of plant seed and 15 different tissues and organs of pepper. CONCLUSION: The RNA extraction procedure reported in the present study greatly reduces the time required to isolate dry seed total RNA and other tissues by more than half as compared with the previously reported methods. The range of typical RNA yield and quality represents a significant improvement over existing protocols. The quality is high enough to be considered as suitable method for RT-PCR, cDNA library construction and microarray gene expression studies. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Selective redistribution reactions of organosilanes in the presence of chloroplatinic acid

Abstract Tetrasubstituted silanes of the general formula R2SiR′2 undergo redistribution reactions quite selectively in the presence of SiHCl3 and chloroplatinic acid. It is the smallest and seemingly the least hindered of the R groups on the tetrasubstituted silane which exchange most readily with a chloro group on trichlorosilane.
Molecular Orientation Distributions in Protein Films. 2. Site-Directed Immobilization of Yeast Cytochrome c on Thiol-Capped, Self-Assembled Monolayers

Molecular orientation in films of yeast cytochrome c immobilized via disulfide bonding between cysteine 102 and the thiol tail groups of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) coated on planar glass substrates was investigated. The orientation distribution of the heme groups in the protein film was determined using a combination of absorption linear dichroism, measured in a planar integrated optical waveguide-attenuated total reflection geometry, and emission anisotropy, measured in a total internal reflection fluorescence geometry. The mean heme tilt angle and angular distribution about the mean were recovered using a Gaussian model for the orientation distribution. These data are the first orientation distribution measurements reported for a protein film immobilized using a site-directed bonding strategy. The results show that the molecular architecture examined in this study does not produce a highly oriented protein film. A significant fraction of the immobilized cytochrome c is nonspecifically adsorbed to ...
Proton affinities of saturated aliphatic methyl esters

The kinetic method was used to determine the proton affinities of methyl esters of several saturated fatty acids. Decompositions of the proton-bound dimers of the methyl esters, AHB+, were observed under different conditions with two instruments. The proton affinities (PAs) of the methyl esters increase continually with increasing carbon number in the acid. Equilibrium and initial rate experiments were performed with a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer on the methyl ester of the C22 saturated acid (methyl behenate). These experiments give values for PA (methyl behenate) that are perhaps slightly lower than those obtained with the kinetic method. The PAs of the methyl esters of the fatty acids could be correlated with the equation: PA (ester) = (40.0 ± 2.5)*log(n) + (784.7 ± 3.9) kJ/mol or PA (ester) = (864 ± 2) − (479 ± 41)/n, wheren = number of atoms in the molecule. Proton affinities of smaller sets of 1-alkylamines and 1-alkanols can be fit to similar equations.
Role of glucocorticoids in ethanol-induced decreases in expression of MHC class II molecules on B cells and selective decreases in spleen cell number

Glucocorticoids have been implicated in some of the immunosuppressive effects associated with acute ethanol (EtOH) intoxication, but other neuroendocrine mediators that are induced by EtOH can also be immunosuppressive. The possibility that glucocorticoids may act additively or synergistically with other mediators to produce immunosuppression has not been fully investigated. In the present study, complementary methods were used to address this issue. EtOH dose-responsively decreased the following parameters in the spleen in B6C3F1 mice: total cell number, mature B cell (IgM+IgD+) number, and expression of MHC class II molecules on B cells. These effects were most pronounced 12 hr after administration of EtOH. The glucocorticoid antagonist, RU 486, completely or partially blocked these effects. Thus, glucocorticoids seem necessary for full expression of these immunological changes in EtOH-treated mice. To determine if glucocorticoids are also sufficient to cause these effects, corticosterone was administered to achieve serum levels and kinetics comparable to those in EtOH-treated mice. This decreased the expression of MHC class II molecules on B cells to the same extent as treatment with EtOH. However, the other parameters were not affected by administration of corticosterone. Thus, corticosterone is necessary and sufficient to decrease expression of MHC class II molecules on splenic B cells, but other mediators in addition to corticosterone are required to decrease total spleen cell number and the number of mature B cells in the spleen.
Refining the multisystem view of the stress response: Coordination among cortisol, alpha-amylase, and subjective stress in response to relationship conflict

Abstract This study investigated associations among young adults' hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity, autonomic nervous system activity, and subjective stress in response to interpersonal conflict to better characterize coordination across stress systems. Seven saliva samples were collected from 199 young adult opposite-sex couples before, during, and after they discussed an unresolved relationship conflict. Samples were later assayed for cortisol and alpha-amylase (sAA). Couples rated anticipatory stress prior to the conflict and perceived stress immediately following the task. Growth curve modeling was used to examine two possible levels of within-person coordination across physiological systems: alignment between cortisol and sAA responses throughout the sampling period (“matched phase coordination”), and association between overall levels of cortisol and sAA in response to conflict (“average level coordination”). Whereas both partners showed the former type of coordination, only women showed the latter type. Positive anticipation of the stressor predicted stronger cortisol–sAA matched phase coordination for women. Pre-task ratings related to women's sAA, and post-task ratings related to both partners' cortisol responses. Implications for a multisystem interpretation of normal and pathological responses to daily stress are discussed.
Wise: Web Interface for Statistics Education

The Web Interface for Statistics Education (WISE) project includes a World-Wide Web site to support the teaching of introductory social-science statistics courses. The site provides easy access to data bases, archived discussion lists, electronic journals, links to other sites focused on relevant statistics topics, and it includes a prototype of an on-line tutorial. The tutorial, which is the focus of the current paper, is designed to capitalize on special capabilities offered by the Web. The easy linkage between Web pages provides support for a highly interactive tutorial, which uses “failure-based” learning and immediate feedback. Students rated the tutorial as easy to use and indicated that it would have improved their initial statistics course.
The Age of a Markov Process.

Abstract The concept of a limiting conditional age distribution of a continuous time Markov process whose state space is the set of non-negative integers and for which {0} is absorbing is defined as the weak limit as t →∞ of the last time before t an associated “return” Markov process exited from {0} conditional on the state, j , of this process at t . It is shown that this limit exists and is non-defective if the return process is ρ-recurrent and satisfies the strong ratio limit property. As a preliminary to the proof of the main results some general results are established on the representation of the ρ-invariant measure and function of a Markov process. The conditions of the main results are shown to be satisfied by the return process constructed from a Markov branching process and by birth and death processes. Finally, a number of limit theorems for the limiting age as j →∞ are given.
The emotional epidemiology of H1N1 influenza vaccination.

Dr. Danielle Ofri describes the fascinating and frustrating shift in public sentiment over the course of the H1N1 epidemic.
Behavior of the decision variables of the three-class ideal observer for univariate trinormal data

We are attempting to extend receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to tasks with more than two classes. This is difficult because of the rapid increase in complexity, in general, of both observer behavior and evaluation of its performance, as the number of classes involved increases. Many researchers have proposed addressing this complexity by imposing simplifications on the model; for example, by using univariate data rather than the bivariate data employed by the general three-class ideal observer. We have investigated a univariate trinormal model for the underlying data of a three-class ideal observer. Although a reasonably complete description of the ideal observer's behavior in this case is attainable, this behavior is more complicated than might intuitively be expected.
Robust systemic transduction with AAV9 vectors in mice: efficient global cardiac gene transfer superior to that of AAV8

It has been recently shown that recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 8 (rAAV8) is a robust alternative serotype vector that overcomes many of the limitations of rAAV2 and transduces various tissues efficiently and globally through systemic vector administration. AAV9 is a serotype newly isolated from human tissues, but our knowledge of the biology of rAAV9 in vivo is currently limited. Here, we demonstrate by a series of comprehensive side-by-side experiments with rAAV8 and 9 vectors delivered via different routes or at various doses in mice that rAAV9 vectors share the robustness of rAAV8, i.e., (1) very high liver transduction efficiency irrespective of whether vectors are administered intravascularly or extravascularly and (2) substantial transduction in the heart, skeletal muscle, and pancreas by peripheral vein injection. Importantly, rAAV9 transduced myocardium 5- to 10-fold higher than rAAV8, resulting in over 80% cardiomyocyte transduction following tail vein injection of as low as 1.0 x 10(11) particles per mouse. Thus rAAV9, as well as rAAV8, is a robust vector for gene therapy applications and rAAV9 is superior to rAAV8 specifically for cardiac gene delivery by systemic vector administration.
Use of recombinant modified vaccinia Ankara viral vectors for equine influenza vaccination

Recombinant modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vectors expressing equine influenza virus genes were constructed and evaluated for use in equine vaccination. Two strains of recombinant MVA, expressing either hemagglutinin (HA) or nucleoprotein (NP) genes were constructed. Each influenza virus gene was cloned from A/equine/Kentucky/1/81 (Eq/Ky) into an MVA construction plasmid, and was introduced to the deletion III locus of the wild type MVA genome by homologous recombination. Recombinant viruses were plaque purified, and antigen expression was confirmed by immunostaining. Two ponies were primed by vaccination with 50 microg HA-DNA and two ponies were vaccinated with 50 microg NP-DNA using the PowderJect XR research device. Six and 10 weeks later, ponies were immunized with 2 x 10(9) infectious units of recombinant MVA encoding the homologous influenza antigen, equally divided between intramuscular and intradermal sites in the neck. A marked rise in influenza virus-specific IgGa and IgGb serum antibody titers was detected following administration of MVA boosters with both HA and NP antigens. Influenza virus-specific lymphoproliferative responses and IFN-gamma mRNA production were also strongly elicited by both antigens. This study demonstrates the facility with which recombinant MVA viruses expressing defined pathogen genes can be constructed, and provides preliminary evidence of the immunogenicity and safety of these vectors in the horse.
Embracing Your Bicultural Identity: Implications for Pastoral Theologians from an Asian American Perspective

This article examines the bicultural identity of Asian Americans and its potential relevance to the in-between identity of pastoral theologians. I suggest that both Asian Americans and pastoral theologians have hyphenated identities that allow them to exist betwixt and between two particular cultures or disciplines. Consequently, I explore the unique pressures that are experienced by those who have a bicultural identity. However, I also argue that there are unique strengths and advantages to having a bicultural identity. Two particular images of the bat, as depicted in Aesop’s fables, are used as metaphors to help understand the context of bicultural individuals and pastoral theologians, and to encourage further inquiry of their strengths and vantage points.
Short-run and long-run policies for increasing bicycle transportation for daily commuter trips

Abstract Long-run and short-run policies to increase the share of bicycle transportation for commuting to and from work are discussed. Analyses of data collected in the Philadelphia metropolitan area show that two general approaches can be taken to promote bicycle transportation. One is a set of policies geared to making bicycling safer and more convenient, essentially short-run ‘pro-bike’ policies. The other set is aimed at reducing the convenience of automobile commuting. This is an ‘anti-auto’ policy which can only be implemented in the long run. Since much of the sample had no choice but to commute by automobile, the impact of this constraint on the policy options is examined. In the long run it is assumed that commuters will have the choice of at least two modes by adjusting the distance between home and work locations. Specific proposals are discussed to implement some of the policies considered.
HIGH-SPEED FREE-SPACE INTERCONNECT BASED ON OPTICAL RING TOPOLOGY : EXPERIMENTAL DEMONSTRATION

The design and implementation of a high-speed optical-ring-topology-based free-space optical interconnect is described. This interconnect system operates at 500 MHz and consists of 16 laser transmitters, a four-channel free-space interconnect, and a high-speed receiver. A nearest-neighbor interconnect is demonstrated. At the data rate of 500 MHz the total system throughput is 8 Gbits/s. The system can easily be operated at much higher data rates since the rate is limited only by the electronic circuitry. A discussion is given about device issues such as optical switching devices, and practical system-design issues such as integration and interface with current electronic systems are considered. This interconnect is promising to the implementation of ultrafast massively parallel single-instruction multiple-data machines.
Ultrastructure of 16 cases of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina and cervix in young women.

Sixteen cases of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix and vagina in young women were studied by electron microscopy and the observations were compared with the light microscopic appearance. Ultrastructurally, the neoplastic cells were found to be of the same basic type, regardless of whether light microscopy disclosed a solid or tubulocystic tumor pattern, and whether the cells were clear, hobnail, flat or of a nonspecific mullerian appearance. Cytoplasmic glycogen and short, blunt, surface villi were the outstanding features. Less consistent findings included prominent Golgi apparatuses and numerous mitochondria. The fine structural characteristics were similar to those reported for clear cell adenocarcinoma of the endometrium and ovary in older women. This study disclosed no difference between 14 tumors that arose in patients with confirmed histories of prenatal exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) or dienestrol, and reported cases of clear cell carcinoma in which there were no histories of such exposure. No specific ultrastructural features could be identified as prognostic indices for the neoplasms.
Optimal Albunex Dosing for Enhancement of Doppler Tricuspid Regurgitation Spectra

Intravenous albunex was more effective than agitated saline in enhancing incomplete Doppler echocardiography spectra for tricuspid regurgitation without a significant alteration in the maximal detected velocity. The optimal dose was 1 to 4 ml in most patients, using an initial dose of 1 ml and titrating further dosing on the basis of the initial contrast effect.
Pediatric lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis in an HIV-negative child with pulmonary Epstein-Barr virus infection.

Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP) in children has been most commonly associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) associated LIP without HIV infection has been reported only in adults. EBV associated LIP has been reported in children, but only with concurrent HIV infection. We report a case of EBV associated, HIV negative LIP in a child.
Effect of high temperature on sporulation of Eimeria zurnii.

Abstract These experiments allow the following conclusions to be drawn: 1. 1. Eimeria zurnii fails to sporulate at high temperature as a result of direct inhibition of cell division. Although Christensen (1939) inferred that sporulation of E. arloingi is inhibited as a result of the lower solubility of oxygen in water at high temperatures, it was observed in the studies reported here that no sporulation took place when adequate oxygen was available (Exp. 7). 2. 2. Respiration apparently continues at 39 °C even though segmentation of the sporoplasm does not take place (Exp. 8). 3. 3. The first evidence of damage to the oocysts by high temperature usually is a reduction in the number sporulating normally. Only after longer exposure to high temperature is there a reduction in the total number of oocysts capable of sporulating. 4. 4. At 35 °C sporulation takes place more rapidly than, for example, at 25 °, but the number of oocysts sporulating normally is considerably reduced (Exp. 1). 5. 5. Permanent damage to the unsporulated or to the sporulating oocysts by exposure to 37 ° and 39 ° and probably at 35 °C, generally occurs between 12 and 24 hours. 6. 6. Sporulation of E. zurnii is evidently a two-stage process. The first, the presegmentation period, is shortened by exposure to high temperature (Exp. 6), but after segmentation has begun, the process is stopped by high temperature (Exp. 7). Within limits, the first, or pre-segmentation stage, is not sensitive to high temperature; however, the second, or segmentation stage, is inhibited by high temperature.
Mammary gland growth and vascularity at parturition and during lactation in primiparous ewes fed differing levels of selenium and nutritional plane during gestation

Objectives were to examine the effects of selenium (Se) supply and maternal nutritional plane during gestation on mammary gland growth, cellular proliferation, and vascularity at parturition and d 20 of lactation. Rambouillet primiparous ewes (n = 84) were allocated to treatments in a 2 x 3 factorial. Factors were dietary Se (adequate Se [ASe, 11.5 μg/kg BW] or high Se [HSe, 77.0 μg/kg BW]) and nutritional plane (60% [RES], 100% [CON], or 140% [EXC]). At parturition, lambs were removed and 42 ewes (7/treatment) were necropsied. Remaining ewes were fed a common diet meeting requirements for lactation and mechanically milked twice daily until necropsy on d 20. At both necropsy periods, mammary glands were dissected and tissues harvested. Samples were analyzed for RNA, DNA, and protein content, cell proliferation, and vascularity. Where interactions were present (P ≤ 0.05), least squares means from the highest-order interaction are presented. Final body weight of ewes was least (P ≤ 0.002) in RES, intermediate for CON, and greatest for EXC, regardless of stage of the ewe at necropsy (parturition or d 20 of lactation). In ewes necropsied at parturition, mammary glands were heavier (P = 0.02) in EXC compared to RES, with CON intermediate. Concentration of RNA (mg/g) was decreased (P = 0.01) in EXC compared to CON at parturition. There was a tendency (P = 0.07) for a Se by nutrition interaction in percentage of cells proliferating where ASe-EXC ewes had greater (P ≤ 0.02) number of proliferating cells then all other treatments. Mammary vascular area tended (P = 0.08) to be affected by a Se by nutrition interaction where ASe-CON had less (P = 0.007) vascular area than HSe-CON ewes. In ewes necropsied at d 20 of lactation, the number of alveoli per area was decreased (P ≤ 0.05) in RES compared to CON and EXC-fed ewes. Results of this study indicate that proper maternal nutritional plane during gestation is important for mammary gland development, even out to d 20 of lactation.