cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Annual Cycle in the Tropical Eastern Central Pacific

Abstract In the tropical eastern central Pacific Ocean, the annual cycle in sea surface temperature (SST), surface winds and pressure, and clouds are alternatively dominated by an antisymmetric (with respect to the equator) monsoonal mode in February and August and a quasi-symmetric equatorial-coastal mode in May and November, both having a period of one year. The monsoonal mode is forced by the differential insulation between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The surface wind variation of the monsoonal mode tends to lead SST variation in late spring/fall. The equatorial-coastal mode originates from atmosphere–ocean interaction. Its development is characterized by contemporaneous intensification and spatial expansion (westward and poleward phase propagation). The interaction between the forced monsoonal mode and the coupled equatorial-coastal mode plays a critical role in the annual cycle. From October to February, the decline of the southern winter regime of the monsoonal mode initiates and sustains...
The molecular basis for the inverse temperature transition of elastin.

Elastin undergoes an "inverse temperature transition" such that it becomes more ordered as the temperature increases. To investigate the molecular basis for this behavior, molecular dynamics simulations were conducted above and below the transition temperature. Simulations of a 90-residue elastin peptide, (VPGVG)(18), with explicit water molecules were performed at seven different temperatures between 7 and 42 degrees C, for a total of 80 ns. Beginning from an idealized beta-spiral structure, hydrophobic collapse was observed over a narrow temperature range in the simulations. Moreover, simulations above and below elastin's transition temperature indicate that elastin has more turns and distorted beta-structure at higher temperatures. Water was critical to the inverse temperature transition and elastin-associated water molecules can be divided into three categories: those closely associated with beta II turns; those that form hydrogen bonds with the main-chain groups; and those hydrating the hydrophobic side-chains. Water-swollen, monomeric elastin above the transition temperature is best described as a compact amorphous structure with distorted beta-strands, fluctuating turns, buried hydrophobic residues, and main-chain polar atoms that participate in hydrogen bonds with water. Below the transition temperature, elastin is expanded with approximately 40 % local beta-spiral structure. Overall the simulations are in agreement with experiment and therefore appear to provide an atomic-level description of the conformational properties of elastin monomers and the basis for their elastomeric properties.
Integrating durability-based service-life predictions with environmental impact assessments of natural fiber–reinforced composite materials

Abstract As concern about resource conservation has grown, research efforts have increased to develop materials out of rapidly renewable constituents, to assess their life cycle environmental impacts, and to predict their service-life performance. Assessing time-dependent material property deterioration, often a concern for polymers and their composites, is essential to evaluating the viability of novel materials to serve as lower environmental impact replacements for conventional materials. However, research in methods to combine environmental impacts from production and material deterioration is limited. In this research, a durability-based service-life model was used to assess and incorporate composite deterioration into life cycle environmental impact analyses. The inclusion of composite deterioration under differing temperature and moisture conditions in these analyses typically resulted in higher volumes of material needed to serve the desired function compared to volumes needed to satisfy initial design requirements, leading to a change in environmental impact. While this concept falls in line with the classic definition of material efficiency, namely improving mass yield for materials, the results of the life cycle impact assessment showed with certain process modifications lower environmental impacts could be achieved even in cases where more material was being used. These findings indicate that design decisions must account for application-specific requirements and consider environmental impacts concurrently with material deterioration.
Identification of additional IDH mutations associated with oncometabolite R (−)-2-hydroxyglutarate production

Mutations in cytosolic isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) or its mitochondrial homolog IDH2 can lead to R(-)-2-hydroxyglutarate (2HG) production. To date, mutations in three active site arginine residues, IDH1 R132, IDH2 R172 and IDH2 R140, have been shown to result in the neomorphic production of 2HG. Here we report on three additional 2HG-producing IDH1 mutations: IDH1 R100, which is affected in adult glioma, IDH1 G97, which is mutated in colon cancer cell lines and pediatric glioblastoma, and IDH1 Y139. All these new mutants stereospecifically produced 2HG's (R) enantiomer. In contrast, we find that the IDH1 SNPs V71I and V178I, as well as a number of other single-sample reports of IDH non-synonymous mutation, did not elevate cellular 2HG levels in cells and retained the wild-type ability for isocitrate-dependent NADPH production. Finally, we report the existence of additional rare, but recurring mutations found in lymphoma and thyroid cancer, which while failing to elevate 2HG nonetheless displayed loss of function, indicating a possible tumorigenic mechanism for a non-2HG-producing subset of IDH mutations in some malignancies. These data broaden our understanding of how IDH mutations may contribute to cancer through either neomorphic R(-)-2HG production or reduced wild-type enzymatic activity, and highlight the potential value of metabolite screening in identifying IDH-mutated tumors associated with elevated oncometabolite levels.
Numerical Modeling of Ice Fog in Interior Alaska Using the Weather Research and Forecasting Model

An ice microphysics parameterization scheme has been modified to better describe and understand ice fog formation. The modeling effort is based on observations in the Sub-Arctic Region of Interior Alaska, where ice fog occurs frequently during the cold season due to abundant water vapor sources and strong inversions existing near the surface at extremely low air temperatures. The microphysical characteristics of ice fog are different from those of other ice clouds, implying that the microphysical processes of ice should be changed in order to generate ice fog particles. Ice fog microphysical characteristics were derived with the NCAR Video Ice Particle Sampler during strong ice fog cases in the vicinity of Fairbanks, Alaska, in January and February 2012. To improve the prediction of ice fog in the Weather Research and Forecasting model, observational data were used to change particle size distribution properties and gravitational settling rates, as well as to implement a homogeneous freezing process. The newly implemented homogeneous freezing process compliments the existing heterogeneous freezing scheme and generates a higher number concentration of ice crystals than the original Thompson scheme. The size distribution of ice crystals is changed into a Gamma distribution with the shape factor of 2.0, using the observed size distribution. Furthermore, gravitational settling rates are reduced for the ice crystals since the crystals in ice fog do not precipitate in a similar manner when compared to the ice crystals of cirrus clouds. The slow terminal velocity plays a role in increasing the time scale for the ice crystals to settle to the surface. Sensitivity tests contribute to understanding the effects of water vapor emissions as an anthropogenic source on the formation of ice fog.
Stone Tools for Steel-Age Mexicans? Aspects of Production in a Zapotec Stoneworking Industry'

This paper has three aims: (1) to describe in some detail selected aspects of the technology, work organization and production activity of the metateros (metate makers) of the Oaxaca Valley, Mexico, as well as to speculate about aspects of their past technology and work organization; (2) to encourage cultural anthropologists and archaeologists to be more explicit and systematic in considering material artifacts from a production perspective which views technology, ecology, and economics as integrated through the human labor process; and (3) to stimulate more cultural anthropologists and archaeologists to study production and exchange activity among extant populations as a key to understanding the organization of production and exchange among extinct populations.
Multiple myeloma in a murine syngeneic model:modulation of growth and angiogenesis by a monoclonal antibody to kininogen

Multiple myeloma (MM), a B-cell malignancy characterized by proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells remains incurable. Murine plasma cell tumors share common features with human MM. We used two cell lines (B38 and C11C1) derived from P3X63Ag8 myeloma cells. The new cell lines were implanted subcutaneously in the strain of origin (Balb/c mice) and used as a model to monitor the effects of C11C1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) to kininogen (HK). We assessed their behavior by intraperitoneal and subcutaneous implantation, by implanting them together and by treating B38–MM with purified mAb C11C1. We evaluated growth, microvascular density (MVD), and cellular expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator-receptor (uPAR), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), bradykinin-1 receptor (B1R), bradykinin-2 receptor (B2R) and HK. We found that both MM-cell-lines are uPAR positive, that mAb C11C1 inhibits its own tumor growth in vivo, slows down B38-MM growth rate when both MM are implanted together and when mAb C11C1 is injected intraperitoneally. MAb C11C1-treated-MM showed decreased MVD and HK binding in vivo without FGF-2, B1R or B2R expression changes. We propose that the B38-extramedullary-myeloma-model is a useful tool to study the interactions of this hematopoietic tumor and its environment and that mAb C11C1 may improve the efficacy of conventional MM treatment with minimal side effects.
“It's We the People…, Not We the Illegals”: Extreme Speech in Prince William County, Virginia's Immigration Debate

Prince William County, Virginia received national attention when county lawmakers voted in July 2007 to enact one of the nation's most sweeping anti-immigrant resolutions. Help Save Manassas, a local anti-immigration group, assumed a prominent role in the county's immigration debate and in leading the charge for local government action. An analysis of Help Save Manassas’ newsletters reveals the role of extreme speech in social change. By linking patriotism to an anti-immigration stance, many of the perspectives expressed in the newsletters achieved legitimacy in the public sphere, ultimately influencing public policy. This case study reveals one strategy by which extremist groups make their views mainstream and in so doing underscores the importance of attending to the vernacular of conservative counterpublics.
Determination of plasticizers commonly used in pharmaceutical dosage forms by high performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A simple reversed-phase HPLC method was developed to identify and quantify plasticizers commonly used with polymers present in sustained or controlled release dosage forms. the plasticizers investigated included triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, acetyl triethyl citrate, dibutyl sebacate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, and triacetin. the plasticizers were detected at 220 nm, the mobile phase being methanol:water (70:30 v/v%). the peak area response was linear over the studied concentration range of 0.5–5.0 mM/L for triethyl citrate, acetyl triethyl citrate, dibutyl sebacate, and triacetin, and 0.005 − 0.05 mM/L for diethyl phthalate. the recovery from solvent-cast ethyl cellulose and Eudragit RS 100 films was complete. Two pharmaceutical applications of this assay included the quantitation of plasticizers in polymer-coated sugar beads and a leaching study of a water-soluble plasticizer, triethyl citrate, from polymeric films into simulated intestinal fluids.
HIGH‐RISK WORKERS OR HIGH‐RISK WORK? GENETIC SUSCEPTIBILITY POLICIES IN THE HAZARDOUS WORKPLACE

The problem of workers at risk should be reframed to reflect the impact of social stratification, power relations and divergent interests in occupational health practices. The past two decades have seen rapid developments in technology for detecting genetic traits and abnormalities in individuals that may indicate damage from chemical exposure. Occupational physicians, industrial managers and biomedical scientists increasingly favour this technology. However these methods have only selective appeal and are quite controversial. Their accuracy in identifying high‐risk workers is disputed as well as their value and consequences. Social factors that shape the way workers at risk have been defined are discussed. These social processes help to explain the way issues of risk are framed and industrial practices are conducted. They also explain patterns of support and opposition to genetic technology.
Effect of mercurial perturbation on avian uterine calcium transport

Abstract The ability of the in vitro avian uterus to secrete calcium is inhibited by mercury compounds. It was proposed that organic and inorganic agents may act differently in altering transepithelial transport as well as the electrical properties characterizing the isolated uterus. Inhibition of calcium transport is more pronounced in the presence of CH 3 HgCl than in the presence of HgCl 2 . This inhibition is also reflected in marked alterations in the spontaneous electrical potential difference and short-circuit current. The responsiveness of avian reproductive systems is discussed in relation to the inhibitory efficacy of mercury compounds.
Evaluating niacin in its various forms.

Niacin is available in a number of different formulations according to the speed of drug release. The nomenclature is not standardized, and many names are used interchangeably, creating confusion. Formulations that differ in time of release may have different lipid effects and vary in their adverse reaction profiles. Studies comparing immediate-release with various time-release formulations illustrate these variations. Studies have found immediate-release and the intermediate, or extended-release, once-a-day, prescription form of niacin (i.e., Niaspan), to be essentially equivalent with respect to their efficacy in reducing triglycerides and increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). However, there are fewer side effects and better compliance associated with the latter form.
Simulation of Laser Plasma Filamentation Using Adaptive Mesh Refinement

We investigate the use of adaptive mesh refinement in the simulation of laser plasma filamentation. A numerical algorithm is constructed to solve model equations consisting of a fluid approximation of a quasineutral plasma combined with a paraxial light propagation model. The algorithm involves high-resolution plasma and light model discretizations on a block-structured, locally refined grid hierarchy, which is dynamically modified during the time integration to follow evolving fine-scale solution features. Comparisons of the efficiency of this approach to that of uniform grid calculations are presented.
The Role of Memory Reactivation during Wakefulness and Sleep in Determining Which Memories Endure

Consolidation makes it possible for memories of our daily experiences to be stored in an enduring way. We propose that memory consolidation depends on the covert reactivation of previously learned material both during sleep and wakefulness. Here we tested whether the operation of covert memory reactivation influences the fundamental selectivity of memory storage—of all the events we experience each day, which will be retained and which forgotten? We systematically manipulated the value of information learned by 60 young subjects; they learned 72 object-location associations while hearing characteristic object sounds, and a number on each object indicated the reward value that could potentially be earned during a future memory test. Recall accuracy declined to a greater extent for low-value than for high-value associations after either a 90 min nap or a 90 min wake interval. Yet, via targeted memory reactivation of half of the low-value associations using the corresponding sounds, these memories were rescued from forgetting. Only cued associations were rescued when sounds were applied during wakefulness, whereas the entire set of low-value associations was rescued from forgetting when the manipulation occurred during sleep. The benefits accrued from presenting corresponding sounds show that covert reactivation is a major factor determining the selectivity of memory consolidation in these circumstances. By extension, covert reactivation may determine the ultimate fate of our memories, though wake and sleep reactivation might play distinct roles in this process, the former helping to strengthen individual, salient memories, and the latter strengthening, while also linking, categorically related memories together.
Intentionally integrating in oncogenes

A new genotoxicity assay allows one to study proto-oncogene activation at the appropriate human chromosomal position. Gene therapy is currently plagued by the problem of vector integration near oncogenes. Although different retroviral (including lentiviral) vectors have distinct preferences for
Histologic findings of Hailey-Hailey disease in a patient with bullous pemphigoid

The association of bullous pemphigoid with other immune-mediated diseases has been described; however, coexistence with other buUous dermatoses is unusual. We describe a patient with longstanding localized bullous pemphigoid and the recent finding of a Hailey-Hailey-like histologic pattern in a biopsy specimen obtained at a site of active pemphigoid involvement, as confirmed by immunofluorescence studies. Although this case suggests the possibility of coexistence of two bullous diseases, the Hailey-Hailey-like pattern more likely represents an incidental microscopic finding or a solitary acantholytic lesion.
Age-related neuronal loss in the nucleus centralis superior of the rhesus monkey

The effect of age on the number of neurons in the nucleus centralis superior (NCS) [6] was determined in 11 behaviorally tested rhesus monkeys of 7–32 years of age. There was a significant age-related decrease in both cell packing density and in the total number of neurons. This decrease in number of neurons appeared to effect two different populations of cell in the NCS, one of which corresponded in size to the serotonergic cells in this nucleus and the other to a smaller-sized cell. Comparisons of the changes in the cell packing density with behavioral testing, showed significant correlations with the overall test performance as well as with individual tests of memory function and of executive system functions. These findings suggest that neuronal loss in the NCS may play a significant role in mediating cognitive changes seen in normal aging.
Tailored Caregiver Therapy: Consumer Response to Intervention

Interventions must be tailored to meet the specific needs of a given individual, and caregivers represent a large population of individuals with diverse needs. A wide range of goal areas complicates assessment of multi-component interventions, and few tools are designed to capture the value of specific interventions to caregivers who are clients involved in these clinical interventions. Further, no studies have examined caregiver interventions from the consumer perspective. The current study includes an analysis of the goal areas identified by caregivers as relevant to their situations, including information about goals areas that are likely to co-occur and insight into the utility of specific interventions for particular goal areas.
Membrane composition modulates thiopental partitioning in bilayers and biomembranes

Abstract The nonspecific interaction of thiopental with erythrocyte ghosts, synaptic membranes, microsomes and mitochondria has been measured at 25°C and pH 6.6. In cholesterol-depleted erythrocyte ghosts the partition coefficient decreases with increasing cholesterol content. In sonicated liposomes made from egg lecithin and cholesterol the partition coefficient also decreases with increasing cholesterol content. The dependence of the partition coefficient on cholesterol content in the biological membranes, on average, parallels that in the lipid bilayers. The partition coefficient in lipid bilayers made from lipids extracted from erythrocyte ghosts was comparable to that in the corresponding egg lecithin/cholesterol bilayer. The partition coefficients of all the biomembranes are consistently lower than those in the corresponding egg lecithin/cholesterol bilayer, the free energy of transfer between biomembrane and corresponding bilayer being −1 kcal/mol.
Musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging: How we do it

This paper reviews the techniques that we employ to perform musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging in the pediatric patient. We examine the procedures for preparation and screening of the patient and the protocols for sedation. The selection of imaging coils and sequences for the evaluation of the pediatric musculoskeletal system is also addressed, followed by a summary of scanning protocols.
Hapten-sandwich labeling. IV. Improved procedures and non-cross-reacting hapten reagents for double-labeling cell surface antigens

New procedures are presented for preparation of hapten-antibody conjugates with the bifunctional amidinating reagent methyl-p-hydroxybenzimidate (HB). Conjugates with improved solubility are effective for hapten-sandwich labeling of cell surface antigens with high sensitivity and specificity. Several non-cross-reacting hapten-antihapten antibody systems are described which are well-suited for simultaneous labeling of different surface antigens.
Day to day reproducibility of electrically inducible ventricular arrhythmias in survivors of acute myocardial infarction

Day to day reproducibility of the response to programmed ventricular stimulation has not been evaluated in survivors of acute myocardial infarction. Programmed ventricular stimulation was performed prospectively on 2 consecutive days in 56 patients on an average of 12 +/- 5 days (range 7 to 29) after an acute myocardial infarction. No patient had a history of documented or suspected sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation occurring greater than 48 h after infarction. During initial programmed ventricular stimulation, 21 patients had induction of sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation (Group I), and 35 patients had induction of either nonsustained ventricular tachycardia or no ventricular tachycardia (Group II). Repeat programmed ventricular stimulation in Group I patients induced sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation in 16 of 21 patients (reproducibility 76%); the maximal induced response in the other 5 patients was nonsustained ventricular tachycardia in 2 patients and fewer than six repetitive ventricular responses in 3 patients. The day to day reproducibility was significantly higher for inducible sustained ventricular tachycardia of cycle length greater than or equal to 240 ms compared with rapid sustained ventricular tachycardia of cycle length less than 240 ms (100% versus 44%, p less than 0.009) or ventricular fibrillation (100% versus 43%, p less than 0.009). Repeat programmed ventricular stimulation in Group II patients did not induce sustained ventricular arrhythmias in 31 of 35 patients (reproducibility 89%). Thus, in survivors of acute myocardial infarction, inducible slow sustained ventricular tachycardia was a highly reproducible finding, whereas inducibility of rapid sustained ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation showed a significant day to day variability.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
MULTIPLE DELAYED RESONATOR VIBRATION ABSORBERS FOR MULTI-DEGREE-OF-FREEDOM MECHANICAL STRUCTURES

Abstract This study is on the use of multiple Delayed Resonators (DR) in suppressing tonal vibrations of multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical structures. The DR is a recently introduced, actively tunable vibration absorber which converts a conventional passive absorber into a maringally stable resonator. This structure absorbs all the vibratory energy at its point of attachment. Control forces in the form of proportional acceleration feedback with variable gains and time delays are considered here. Attractive features of DR have already been demonstrated for single DR absorber cases. When excitation has multiple harmonics, multiple DRs can be used, each DR suppressing one of the harmonics. The stability assessment, however, becomes very complex in this case, due to the presence of unrelated time delays in the system. Therefore, a simpler situation is considered here; single harmonic excitation and multiple identical DRs acting on the system. A strategy called “stability charts” is used not only to resolve the stability but also to find out the tuning speed of the absorption. An example case of two identical DRs on a 3-DOF system is presented. The results demonstrate the feasibility of using multiple DR absorbers.
Advanced maternal age and perinatal outcome : Oocyte recipiency versus natural conception

Objective To compare perinatal outcome in older oocyte recipients with that in women of advanced maternal age who conceived without assisted reproductive technologies. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of 46 oocyte recipients and 49 women who conceived without assisted reproductive technologies. The obstetric courses in singleton and multiple gestations in the two groups of women were compared. Results Among singleton pregnancies, a comparable obstetric course was noted between the groups. Fifty percent of the oocyte recipients experienced multiple gestations, resulting in an increased risk for placenta previa, premature rupture of membranes, preterm labor and delivery, glucose intolerance of pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and cesarean delivery. However, only the risks for pregnancy-induced hypertension and cesarean delivery were significantly increased in the pregnancies of oocyte recipients with multiple gestations. Conclusions Perinatal complications in women receiving oocyte donation may be related to their higher incidence of multiple gestation.
A general synthesis of mono- and disubstituted 1,4,7-triazacyclononanes

Abstract 1,4,7-Triazacyclononane reacts selectively with 2-(t-butoxycarbonyloxyimino)- and 2-(benzyloxycarbonyloxyimino)-2-phenylacetonitrile to give 1,4-diprotected derivatives which could be converted to mono and disubstituted triazacyclononanes.
Physical chemistry of intrinsic hardness

Abstract In simple metals and ionic substances, the bonding is delocalized, and hardness is determined by extrinsic factors such as impurities, precipitates, grain boundaries, dislocation dipoles, and the like. However, in covalent substances, the bonding is localized in electron spin-pairs, and the hardness is intrinsic. This results from low kink mobilities of dislocations. The standard model for dislocation mobility is that of Orowan, Peierls, and Nabarro. In this model, the atomic “roughness” of the glide plane is represented by a sinusoidal potential energy. This model does not agree with observations, and is intrinsically flawed because there are singularities at the cores of dislocations that cannot be represented by periodic potentials. The author has proposed that kink motion on dislocation lines is analogous with chemical exchange reactions. Adjacent atoms lying at the top and bottom of a glide plane exchange their partners for new partners when a kink moves. The reaction is of the disconcerted type, so it is sluggish for covalent bonds, making the kink mobility low. The theory indicates that chemical hardness and mechanical hardness have the same reaction barrier. It is the difference between the energy of the lowest unoccupied electronic orbital (LUMO), and the highest occupied orbital (HOMO). This energy gap determines the strengths of chemical bonds, so it is not surprising that is also determines mechanical strength. The theory accounts quantitatively for the hardnesses of covalent semiconductors (C, Si, Ge, Sn, SiC, and III–V compounds); and with some modification for the hardnesses of “hard metals”, such as TiC and WC.
Religious Experience in a Cross-Cultural and Interfaith Context: Limitations and Possibilities

Religious experience is a multifaceted aspect of an individual’s experience involving conscious and unconscious components. Individuals, for example, maintain varied ideas of God at different levels of awareness and consciousness, all of which contribute to their broader experience of God. This paper focuses primarily on complex theistic experiences of God, their relationship to psychological and spiritual health, and how these experiences can be changed through psychological intervention. Consideration is also given to ethical issues and other implications of changing one’s religious experience.
X-ray absorption spectroscopy of exploding Al wire plasmas using X-pinch radiation sources

X-ray absorption spectroscopy is a powerful diagnostic technique useful for determining the charge state, temperature and density of plasmas under a wide range of conditions and situations. It has been employed for the last two decades to measure parameters of laser produced plasmas in the high energy density (HED) regime and to measure properties of the warm dense matter. Acquiring density, temperature and charge state information in a time and space resolved manner can shed much needed light on the properties of HED laboratory and astrophysical plasmas. In addition, if the spectral information is of sufficient quality, it can be used to better understand the atomic physics in relevant plasmas. Our particular interest was the study of the core-corona system generated in electrically exploded wires and wire array Z-pinches. This system is characterized by existence of a cold, &#60;5eV, dense, >1021 cm−3, wire cores that ablatively supply mass to the surrounding relatively diffuse and higher temperature coronal plasma. The coronal plasma is optically thick to visible and extreme ultraviolet light and is too cold to emit x-rays. Therefore exploding wire plasmas provide perfect opportunities for the use of absorption spectroscopy. To develop this diagnostic we have implemented three types of x-ray spectrograph on the XP and COBRA pulsers at Cornell University, wide-bandwidth spectrographs with flat and concave cylindrically bent KAP crystals and high-resolution (λ/Δλ∼5000) spectrographs with spherically bent quartz crystals1. The hybrid X-pinch2 was used as the continuum x-ray source in the photon energy range of interest for absorption spectroscopy with exploding wire experiments. This source is capable of producing broadband continuum x-ray pulses with about 1.5 µm source size and 100 ps duration. Absorption spectra of single exploded Al wires and 2 – 4 wire arrays were recorded with spatial resolution of 5–20 µm. The parameters of the plasma surrounding the dense cores and the ablating plasma streams were estimated under different experimental conditions. New spectral features in absorption spectra were observed and analyzed.
Manifesto for a new (computational) cognitive revolution

The cognitive revolution offered an alternative to merely analyzing human behavior, using the notion of computation to rigorously express hypotheses about the mind. Computation also gives us new tools for testing these hypotheses – large behavioral databases generated by human interactions with computers and with one another. This kind of data is typically analyzed by computer scientists, who focus on predicting people’s behavior based on their history. A new cognitive revolution is needed, demonstrating the value of minds as intervening variables in these analyses and using the results to evaluate models of human cognition.
The timing of estrogen therapy after ovariectomy--implications for neurocognitive function.

In 1988, Barbara Sherwin reported that surgical menopause was associated with a marked decline in verbal memory and that treatment with estradiol immediately after surgery prevented this deficit. The author of this Viewpoint describes how our understanding of estrogen and neurocognitive function has evolved in the 20 years since that seminal report.
AN EVALUATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA SUMMER RURAL DENTAL EXTERNSHIP PROGRAMd̊

This paper has presented an initial attempt at evaluating the influences and procedures of a specific health personnel-oriented program. It would seem legitimate to be concerned that many programs do not provide for systematic evaluation. If funds are to be directed to support the most effective strategies in the area of health manpower service and research, it seems imperative that systematic information be available for decisions concerning overall program effectiveness as well as program components. The Summer Rural Dental Externship Program evaluated here was found to be generally effective and will likely improve as a result of data provided by the evaluation. It is hoped that the methodology presented might have some general applicability and give some initial direction to those with similar interests and concerns.
Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer with survival rates far lower than other types of breast cancer. Patterns of development, invasion, and presentation are unique to IBC compared with other breast cancers. However, therapies targeted specifically to the treatment of IBC are lacking. Specific therapies, which address the unique features of IBC, are needed to improve prognosis for this type of breast cancer. The first step in developing improved treatments is to identify biomarkers and genes, which are preferentially expressed in IBC and to develop therapies targeted to these markers. In this paper, we discuss advances made in the studies of biomarkers and gene expression in IBC over the last 5 years. Some of the markers have proven to be prognostic or predictive of response to therapy. In some cases, therapies targeted for biomarkers are already used in the treatment of cancer and could be evaluated in IBC patients.
No evidence for axonal atrophy in human diabetic polyneuropathy

In rats with streptozin-induced diabetes mellitus, the caliber of distal myelinated fiber (MF) axons in relation to the number of myelin lamellae is smaller than in controls. This finding usually has been attributed to axonal atrophy, but shrinkage or maldevelopment has also been considered. For human diabetic polyneuropathy (DP), axonal atrophy has been assumed by some investigators, but convincing evidence has not been demonstrated. We morphometrically evaluated transverse sections of 33 sural nerves from carefully evaluated diabetic patients > or = 30 years old without (8 patients) or with (25 patients) DP and compared them with 24 nerves from healthy subjects > or = 30 years old. Nerves from diabetic patients and controls were obtained under identical conditions and processed and evaluated in the same way, using an observer blind to the disease condition. Using computer digitization of electron micrographs, we evaluated the axonal area, perimeter, index of circularity, number of myelin lamellae, and frequency of adaxonal sequestration of 50.4 (mean) +/- 5.8 (SD) MF per sural nerve for healthy subjects and diabetic patients > or = 30 years old. The regression lines of the natural log (In) of axonal area on number of myelin lamellae of diabetic patients (with or without DP) were not significantly different from the regression lines of nerves of healthy subjects for large MFs-the most reliable group in which to recognize atrophy. Likewise, the regression lines of index of circularity (IC) (an index that is decreased with atrophy or shrinkage) on number of myelin lamellae for large fibers was not significantly different between the disease and control groups. The rate of adaxonal sequestration was not significantly higher in DP than in healthy subjects. These results do not support the hypothesis that axonal atrophy occurs in human DP. For small MF, or all MF, some significant differences in regression lines of In axonal area or IC on number of lamellae were found, but these changes are probably explained by events of remyelination and axonal regeneration, which can affect these relationships and are known to occur in DP.
Message Planning, Communication Failure, and Cognitive Load Further Explorations of the Hierarchy Principle

The hierarchy principle predicts and research has demonstrated that in response to communication failure, individuals make less cognitively demanding, low-level changes to message plans, such as the vocal intensity at which they are delivered, rather than more demanding alterations to message content and structure. Three experiments examined the effects of different message preparations on cognitive loads associated with high-level message plan alterations. In Experiment 1, individuals who prepared only one highly iconic message before experiencing communication failure demonstrated greater cognitive load when requested to deliver an alternative message than did individuals who prepared three highly iconic alternative messages. No cognitive load differences were found between those who prepared one or three low-iconicity messages. In Experiment 2, individuals who prepared one or six highly iconic message plans demonstrated greater cognitive load after communication failure than those who prepared three alternatives. This U-curve relationship was replicated in Experiment 3.
The epidemiology of case fatality rates for suicide in the northeast

Abstract Study objective We examine how method-specific case fatality rates for suicide differ by age and sex. Methods Seven northeastern states provided mortality and hospital discharge data (1996 to 2000). Suicide acts were divided into 8 categories according to the method used. For each method, the fraction of acts resulting in death (the method-specific case fatality rate) was calculated. Only suicide acts that resulted in hospitalization or death were included. Results Overall, 13% of all suicide acts proved lethal (23% for males compared with 5% for females; 7% for people aged 15 to 24 years compared with 34% for individuals aged ≥65 years). Poisoning with drugs accounted for 74% of acts but only 14% of fatalities; firearms and hanging accounted for only 10% of acts but 67% of fatalities. Firearms were the most lethal means (91% resulted in death), followed by drowning (84%) and hanging (82%). For every means, method-specific case fatality rates were higher for male victims and older individuals. Age and sex were associated with overall case fatality rates primarily because of their association with the distribution of methods chosen. Conclusion Our findings are based on suicide acts that result in hospitalization or death and therefore underestimate the actual incidence of suicide acts and overestimate case fatality rates. Nevertheless, we find that age and sex influence overall case fatality rates primarily through their association with methods used, rather than because of variation in method-specific case fatality rates.
Compressive splitting failure of composites using modified shear lag theory

The shear lag model has been used in conjunction with the 3D elasticity equations to determine the stress state in a fiber/matrix system containing an interface crack. The use of a shear lag model to capture the stress state at the crack tip and the modelling of the region away from the crack tip by the elasticity equations leads to a simple analytical expression which can be used to determine the compliance changes for both unsteady crack growth as well as steady state crack propagation under compressive loading. Certain modifications to the assumptions used in the classical shear lag model have been made to increase the accuracy of the predictions for the rate of change of compliance with respect to crack length, dc/dl. The present approach leads to closed form expressions for the compressive strength of unidirectional fiber reinforced composites.
Sexual behavior, communication, and chlamydial infections among college women.

The sexual practices, partner communication patterns, and prevalence of chlamydial infection were determined in a sample of college women. Specific inclusion criteria were used to screen 146 participants. The presence of a mucopurulent cervical discharge was the only criterion significantly associated with infection. Only 12% of the sample used condoms alone or in combination with another birth control method, and only 31% of the women discussed with their partner their own or their partner's sexual history. Thirty‐eight percent of the sample reported a history of one to four episodes of a sexually transmitted disease, and 21% of the women stated they had had two or more sexual partners within the past 6 months. Health providers, counselors, and women themselves must address this health issue with more assertive behavior and communication skills.
Calculated X-ray Diffraction Data for Diamond Polytypes

Calculated X-ray diffraction pattern data for diamond polytypes are presented, which provides the required parameters for the characterization of the proposed diamond polytypes. The literature on diamond polytypes contains some small but significant errors with respect to the details of the crystal structure, including space groups, the atom positions in the unit cell, and the atomic layer stacking. In this paper, the crystal structures of four different hexagonal diamond and two different rhombohedral diamond polytypes are theoretically calculated to provide correct crystallographic information with which the diamond polytypes in a given sample can be characterized.
Studies on the Site of Action of Vasopressin in Inducing Adrenocorticotropin Secretion

Hypophysectomized rats bearing three transplanted pituitaries under the kidney capsule responded to synthetic lysine vasopressin or pitressin with a significant elevation of plasma corticosterone, whereas hypophysectomized rats with no grafts did not. This response was completely abolished by pretreatment of animals with dexamethasone but was unaltered by central hypothalamic destruction. Corticotropin-releasing factor content of the hypothalamic median eminence, hypophyseal stal-, or pars nervosa of the posterior pituitary of intact rats was unchanged 5 or 10 min after ip injection of vasopressin compared to the basal level. We conclude that vasopressin and dexamethasone act directly on the adenohypophysis in vivo to exert their stimulatory or inhibitory effect on ACTH secretion.
Conserved neurochemical pathways involved in hypothalamic control of energy homeostasis

The melanocortin system, which includes -melanocyte-stimulating hormone (-MSH) and its endogenous antagonist, agouti-related protein (AgRP), is fundamental for the central control of energy homeostasis in mammals. Recent studies have demonstrated that many neuropeptides involved in the control of ingestive behavior and energy expenditure, including melanocortins, are also expressed and functional in teleost fishes. To test the hypothesis that the underlying neural pathways involved in energy homeostasis are conserved throughout vertebrate evolution, the neuroanatomical distribution of -MSH in relation to AgRP was mapped in a teleost (zebrafish, Danio rerio) by double-label immunocytochemistry. Zebrafish -MSH- and AgRP-immunoreactive (ir) cells are found in discrete populations in the ventral periventricular hypothalamus, the proposed arcuate homologue in teleosts. Major ascending projections are similar for both peptides, and dense ir-fibers innervate preoptic and ventral telencephalic nuclei homologous to paraventricular, lateral septal, and amygdala nuclei in mammals. Furthermore, -MSH and AgRP-ir somata and fibers are pronounced at 5 days post fertilization when yolk reserves are depleted and larvae begin to feed actively, which supports the functional significance of these peptides for feeding behavior. The conservation of melanocortin peptide function and projection pathways further support zebrafish as an excellent genetic model system to investigate basic mechanisms involved in the central regulation of energy homeostasis. J. Comp. Neurol. 505:235–248, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effects of Inflation Dynamics on the Drag of Round Parachute Canopies

This paper addresses the issue of the source of peak opening force, and whether it can be determined solely by the instantaneous canopy geometry. A set of rigid canopy models were fabricated which had geometries resembling those of a flexible, round canopy model undergoing an infinite mass inflation. The drag coefficient of rigid models were measured in a wind tunnel and compared with that of the fabric canopy. Data indicated that the two drag coefficient trends were quite different. It was concluded that the canopy geometry alone cannot be responsible for the peak opening forces during inflation, even when the apparent mass is accounted for. The time history of the viscous flow field about the canopy determines the peak opening force for the most part.
Metal Concentrations in Organs of the Clam Amiantis umbonella and Their Use in Monitoring Metal Contamination of Coastal Sediments

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of metal concentrations in clam organs to monitor metal contamination in coastal sediments. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn were measured in the kidneys, gonads, mantles, gills, digestive gland, and hearts of the infaunal clam Amiantis umbonella collected from a contaminated site near desalination and power plant discharges, and a reference site in Kuwait Bay. Metal concentrations in sediment and sediment pore water were also measured at the collection sites of individual clams at the contaminated site. The concentrations of all metals in all organs (except Zn in the digestive gland) were significantly higher in clams from the contaminated site than from the reference site. Metal concentrations in several organs in A. umbonella from the contaminated site were correlated with those in the sediments and pore waters to which they were exposed. However, fresh weights of gonads, gills, and mantles were significantly lower in clams from the contaminated site compared to the reference site, indicating that the observed elevated concentrations of metals in the organs of clams from the contaminated site largely reflect lower organ weights, rather than higher metal loads, and that these organs in A. umbonella and perhaps other clams are not appropriate for use as biomonitors of metal contamination. Metal concentrations in clam kidneys showed a wide dynamic range with respect to environmental contamination and kidney weight was not variable. Therefore, metal concentrations in clam kidneys provide a reliable biomonitor of contaminant metals in coastal marine sediments.