cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of U.S. Monetary Policy on Emerging Sovereign CDS-Bond Market

In a frictionless market, the CDS-bond basis, defined as CDS spread minus bond spread should be zero. I show that the emerging market CDS-bond basis systematically declines when US interest rates fall. The basis deviations are temporary and occur in both pre and post the financial crisis of 2008-09, although the effect is arguably stronger post crisis. The relationship is driven by a rise in investor demand to sell CDS when US rates are low and the investor motive is most consistent with reaching for yield. Aggregate outstanding sovereign CDS positions held by investors show net CDS sold increases when the rates fall. I also find the largest mutual funds in the emerging debt market are net sellers of CDS during 2006-2016 and show similar sensitivity to interest rates.
Pneumatosis intestinalis and intestinal perforation in a case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children.

This case demonstrates pneumatosis intestinalis and small bowel perforation in a paediatric patient with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Our patient presented with fever, abdominal pain and shortness of breath. She progressed to haemodynamic failure and small bowel perforation approximately 1 week after admission. Patients with suspected or confirmed MIS-C should be monitored closely for abdominal catastrophe, especially when critically ill in the intensive care unit.
Comparison of In Vitro Susceptibility of Delafloxacin with Ciprofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, and Other Comparator Antimicrobials against Isolates of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria.

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections are increasing globally. Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) and M. abscessus complex are the most commonly reported NTM. Oral treatment options are limited, especially for the M. abscessus complex. We tested delafloxacin, a new oral fluoroquinolone, against 131 isolates of NTM. Delafloxacin microdilution MICs were performed as recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute using cation adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth. The rapidly growing mycobacteria tested included M. abscessus subsp. abscessus (n = 16) and subsp. massiliense (n = 5), M. chelonae (n = 11), M. immunogenum (n = 5), M. fortuitum group (n = 13), M. porcinum (n = 7), M. senegalense (n = 7), M. mucogenicum group (n = 5), and M. goodii (n = 1). For the slowly growing NTM (SGM), M. avium (n = 16), M. intracellulare (n = 13), M. chimaera (n = 9), M. arupense (n = 5), M. simiae (n = 5), M. lentiflavum (n = 4), M. kansasii (n = 6), and M. marinum (n = 3) were tested. Delafloxacin was most active in vitro against the M. fortuitum and M. mucogenicum groups and M. kansasii, with MIC50 values of 0.12 to 0.5 μg/ml (MIC range, 0.001 to 4 μg/ml) compared to ≤0.06 to >4 μg/ml for ciprofloxacin and ≤0.06 to >8 μg/ml for moxifloxacin. For other SGM (including MAC), and the M. abscessus/M. chelonae, the delafloxacin MIC range was 8 to >16 μg/ml compared to ciprofloxacin and moxifloxacin of 0.5 to >4 μg/ml and ≤0.06 to 8 μg/ml, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first MIC study with delafloxacin to use Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) recommended methods. This study illustrates the potential utility of delafloxacin in treatment of infections due to some NTM.
Deepfakes in Ophthalmology: Applications and Realism of Synthetic Retinal Images from Generative Adversarial Networks

ABSTRACT Purpose Generative adversarial networks (GANs) are deep learning (DL) models that can create and modify realistic-appearing synthetic images, or deepfakes, from real images. The purpose of our study was to 1) evaluate the ability of experts to discern synthesized retinal fundus images from real fundus images and 2) to review the current uses and limitations of GANs in ophthalmology. Design Development and expert evaluation of a GAN and an informal review of the literature. Subjects 4282 image pairs of fundus images and retinal vessel maps acquired from a multicenter ROP screening program. Methods Pix2Pix HD, a high-resolution GAN, was first trained and validated on fundus and vessel map image pairs and subsequently used to generate 880 images from a held-out test set. 50 synthetic images from this test set and 50 different real images were presented to 4 expert ROP ophthalmologists using a custom online system for evaluation of whether the images were real or synthetic. Literature was reviewed on PubMed and Google Scholars using combinations of the terms: ophthalmology, GANs, generative adversarial networks, ophthalmology, images, deepfakes, synthetic. Ancestor search was performed to broaden results. Main Outcome Measures Expert ability to discern real vs. synthetic images was evaluated using percent accuracy. Statistical significance was evaluated using a Fisher Exact Test, with p values ≤ 0.05 thresholded for significance. Results The expert majority correctly identified 59% of images as being real or synthetic (p = 0.1). Experts 1-4 correctly identified 54%, 58%, 49%, and 61% of images (p = 0.505, 0.158, 1.000, and 0.043 respectively). These results suggest that the majority of experts could not discern between real and synthetic images. Additionally, we identified 20 implementations of GANs in the ophthalmology literature, with applications in a variety of imaging modalities and ophthalmic diseases. Conclusions GANs can create synthetic fundus images that are indiscernible from real fundus images by expert ROP ophthalmologists. Synthetic images may improve dataset augmentation for deep learning, may be used in trainee education, and have implications for patient privacy.
Effect of repetitive hypoxic apnoeas on baroreflex function in humans

Baroreflex function is impaired in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. We tested the hypothesis that short-term exposure to repetitive hypoxic apnoeas (RHA) produces prolonged impairment in baroreflex function. Baroreflex function was determined using the modified Oxford technique in 14 subjects (26 ± 1 years). Baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) was quantified from the R-R interval–systolic blood pressure (BP; cardiovagal BRS), heart rate–systolic BP (HR BRS) and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA)–diastolic BP (sympathetic BRS) relations. RHA involved subjects performing repetitive end-expiratory apnoeas (20 s) every minute for 30 min during intermittent hypoxia to accentuate oxygen desaturation. After RHA, BP and MSNA at rest were elevated. BRS was measured ∼7 (Post 1), ∼30 (Post 2) and ∼50 min (Post 3) after RHA to provide insight into the temporal pattern of responses. Cardiovagal BRS (16.8 ± 1.3, 16.5 ± 1.6, 17.6 ± 2.0 and 17.4 ± 1.5 ms mmHg−1 for Pre, Post 1, Post 2 and Post 3, respectively), HR BRS (−1.1 ± 0.1, −1.1 ± 0.1, −1.3 ± 0.1 and −1.4 ± 0.1 beats min−1 mmHg−1) and sympathetic BRS (−4.5 ± 0.6, −4.4 ± 0.7, −3.7 ± 0.5 and −4.7 ± 1.0 arbitrary units (au) beat−1 mmHg−1) were unchanged by RHA. In contrast, the operating points of the baroreflexes were shifted rightward (to higher levels of BP) and upward (to higher levels of heart rate and MSNA) after RHA (P < 0.05). Time control studies performed in five additional subjects showed no change in any of the measured variables over time. Collectively, these data indicate that short-term exposure to RHA shifts (‘resets’) the baroreflex stimulus–response curve to higher levels of BP without influencing BRS for extended periods of time.
Acknowledging America’s First Sovereign: Incorporating Tribal Justice Systems into the Legal Research and Writing Curriculum

Marie Setian (Marie) drove to Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Connecticut, with her husband and another couple for a day of gambling, dining, and entertainment. After gambling for a little while, the couples went to the Festival Buffet. At the buffet’s seafood station, Marie placed some shrimp on her plate. As she walked to the international station, her left foot slipped on something, and she fell to the floor. As a result of the fall, Marie experienced soreness, swelling, and discomfort in her knee. Eventually, she underwent surgery and participated in extensive physical therapy. Her knee will never be the same again.Marie contacted an attorney because she wanted to sue Foxwoods for the actual damages and pain and suffering that she sustained as a result of the slip and fall. Accordingly, the attorney filed a claim in the Connecticut trial court on behalf of Marie. Although it would appear the attorney acted competently and professionally, the state trial court dismissed Marie’s claim.In law schools across the country, law students are introduced to federalism and the organization of the United States government. This invariably includes, among other things, a discussion of the dual systems operated by the state and federal courts, an introduction to the jurisdiction of these courts, and the sources of authority that these courts can consider. Yet, this nearly universal introduction to the American judicial system is incomplete.This article addresses the failure of law schools to introduce law students to America’s first sovereign -- Indian tribes. Legal education in the United States has largely ignored America’s first sovereign, perpetuating the false perception that the United States has dual legal systems -- federal and state. By failing to acknowledge this sovereign entity and its justice systems, legal educators are misinforming their students--the lawyers of tomorrow. Law schools need to take steps to meet their responsibility to accurately portray the United States legal system and to sensitize law students to the potential for tribal law issues. Specifically, legal writing professors should incorporate tribal justice systems and American tribal law -- the law made by Indians -- into the legal research and writing curriculum. Integrating tribal justice systems into the curriculum acknowledges a forgotten sovereign, enhances students' learning, respects the increasingly diverse nature of the law school student body, and prepares law students for the realities of practice in today’s increasingly diverse society.
The real option with absorbing barrier

This paper analyzes the theoretical problem of the real option with barrier. It models an investment decision with a double irreversibility concern: investing is irreversible, but waiting runs the risk of loosing the opportunity to invest. The optimal strategy leads to earlier investment when the barrier increases, or when uncertainty decreases. Uncertainty has ambiguous effects on the expected decision time and on the investment probability after N years. Analytical and numerical results also apply to the perpetual American call with a down-and-out barrier on a dividend paying asset.
Role of genes 46 and 47 in bacteriophage T4 reproduction. II. Formation of gaps on parental DNA of polynucleotide ligase defective mutants.

Abstract The nature of nucleolytic activity regulated by genes 46 and 47 of bacteriophage T4 was studied by examining the metabolism of parental DNA of phages carrying a mutation in polynucleotide ligase gene (lig) and an additional mutation in one of the following D0 genes (D0 genes are necessary for T4 DNA synthesis): 32, 43 (DNA polymerase  pol), 44 and 45. Polynucleotide ligase and DNA polymerase were used to distinguish nicks (phosphodiester bond interruptions on duplex DNA) from gaps (interruptions with missing nucleotides). In non-permissive hosts, parental DNA of double mutants (lig, D0) accumulated both single- and double-strand breaks. Up to 30% of this DNA eventually became acid-soluble. An additional mutation in gene 46 (or 47) did not prevent accumulation of double- and single-strand breaks but did prevent degradation to the acid-soluble state. The majority of the single-strand breaks on (lig, D0)-DNA were presumed to be gaps since, after extraction from infected host cells, they were repaired by ligase plus DNA polymerase but not by ligase alone. In contrast, the majority of the single-strand breaks on parental DNA of (lig, D0, 46) or (lig, pol, 47) were repaired by ligase alone, suggesting nicks, rather than gaps. These observations suggest that (i) genes 46 and 47 regulate, either directly or indirectly, an exonuelease activity which can attack T4 DNA at nicks to create gaps, and (ii) T4 DNA polymerase, and the products of genes 32, 44 and 45 are necessary to prevent nicks from becoming gaps in vivo. Possible roles for genes 46 and 47 in T4 DNA replication and in recombination are discussed.
Wide-verbal-repertoire speech

Abstract This study identifies and discusses wide-verbal-repertoire speech, used by some managers, which combines masculine and feminine speech characteristics in differing proportions. The study was conducted in two gender-balanced 10-person managerial groups by completing a phonological, morphological, and semantic linguistic analysis and a structural interactional analysis of 34 different language traits of each member's speech derived from 22 hours of taped conversation over 15 weeks. Three forms of wide-verbal-repertoire speech were found: balanced, which was almost gender-neutral; extreme, combining selective high usage of some previously identified male and female traits; and mixed, combining a phonological and semantic female profile with a morphological and structural male pattern. Nine measures of influence were employed to determine influence in the group as a whole and its relationship to wide-verbal-repertoire speech. Discussion stresses the value of wide-verbal-repertoire speech for current organizational problems and the ways gender-based speech patterns create barriers between men and women in organizations.
Response of the rhesus monkey uterine cervix to chronic estrogenic stimulation

Abstract The observation of previous workers that chronic estrogenic stimulation causes widespread epidermization in the rhesus monkey cervix is confirmed, but the widely held opinion that this change occurs by metaplasia of columnar cells is shown to be unjustified, since areas of stratified epithelium are demonstrated to be normal components of the endocervical canal of intact animals, and epidermization can be explained on the basis of extension from such areas.
The effects of orally administered urea on healthy subjects and their gastric secretory response to histamine.

Summary The results of feeding urea, using the preparation in this study, were so universally unpleasant as to render this agent unfit for clinical trial. There is an apparent diminution in output of gastric secretion to histamine stimulation (i.e., volume and actual HCl output) in normal subjects whose BUN levels are elevated by oral administration of urea, but the concentration of acid is apparently unchanged.
New Therapeutic Targets for Calcific Aortic Valve Stenosis: The Lipoprotein(a)-Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2-Oxidized Phospholipid Axis∗

Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) is the most common form of acquired valvular heart disease, present in 3% of the population more than 75 years of age [(1)][1]. Although risk factors are similar for CAVS and atherosclerosis, ∼50% of patients with CAVS do not have clinically significant
Animal Fat Effects on Nutrient Utilization

Abstract Laying hens were employed to study the effects of carrier on the true metabolizable energy (TME) of tallow using corn, milo, soybean meal, wheat bran, and dehydrated alfalfa meal with tallow at 0, 2, 4, or 6%. In addition to bomb calorimetry measurements on feed and excreta samples, tallow TME values were calculated from absorbability data. Estimates of TME for tallow varied with carrier feedstuff from 7.19 kcal/g in soybean meal to 13.62 kcal/g when wheat bran was fed. For the corn, milo, and soybean meal series only fat retentions were significantly affected by tallow supplementation. Calculated tallow absorbabilities were 101.8% with corn, 95.8% with milo, and 107.3% with soybean meal. Highest tallow TME values were obtained with wheat bran and dehydrated alfalfa meal, apparently due to increased protein retention from wheat bran and to both improved protein retention and starch absorption with dehydrated alfalfa meal.
Structural and Functional Modifications of Corneal Crystallin ALDH3A1 by UVB Light

As one of the most abundantly expressed proteins in the mammalian corneal epithelium, aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) plays critical and multifaceted roles in protecting the cornea from oxidative stress. Recent studies have demonstrated that one protective mechanism of ALDH3A1 is the direct absorption of UV-energy, which reduces damage to other corneal proteins such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase through a competition mechanism. UV-exposure, however, leads to the inactivation of ALDH3A1 in such cases. In the current study, we demonstrate that UV-light caused soluble, non-native aggregation of ALDH3A1 due to both covalent and non-covalent interactions, and that the formation of the aggregates was responsible for the loss of ALDH3A1 enzymatic activity. Spectroscopic studies revealed that as a result of aggregation, the secondary and tertiary structure of ALDH3A1 were perturbed. LysC peptide mapping using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry shows that UV-induced damage to ALDH3A1 also includes chemical modifications to Trp, Met, and Cys residues. Surprisingly, the conserved active site Cys of ALDH3A1 does not appear to be affected by UV-exposure; this residue remained intact after exposure to UV-light that rendered the enzyme completely inactive. Collectively, our data suggest that the UV-induced inactivation of ALDH3A1 is a result of non-native aggregation and associated structural changes rather than specific damage to the active site Cys.
Gut microbes may facilitate insect herbivory of chemically defended plants

The majority of insect species consume plants, many of which produce chemical toxins that defend their tissues from attack. How then are herbivorous insects able to develop on a potentially poisonous diet? While numerous studies have focused on the biochemical counter-adaptations to plant toxins rooted in the insect genome, a separate body of research has recently emphasized the role of microbial symbionts, particularly those inhabiting the gut, in plant-insect interactions. Here we outline the "gut microbial facilitation hypothesis," which proposes that variation among herbivores in their ability to consume chemically defended plants can be due, in part, to variation in their associated microbial communities. More specifically, different microbes may be differentially able to detoxify compounds toxic to the insect, or be differentially resistant to the potential antimicrobial effects of some compounds. Studies directly addressing this hypothesis are relatively few, but microbe-plant allelochemical interactions have been frequently documented from non-insect systems-such as soil and the human gut-and thus illustrate their potential importance for insect herbivory. We discuss the implications of this hypothesis for insect diversification and coevolution with plants; for example, evolutionary transitions to host plant groups with novel allelochemicals could be initiated by heritable changes to the insect microbiome. Furthermore, the ecological implications extend beyond the plant and insect herbivore to higher trophic levels. Although the hidden nature of microbes and plant allelochemicals make their interactions difficult to detect, recent molecular and experimental techniques should enable research on this neglected, but likely important, aspect of insect-plant biology.
Pattern recognition via multispectral, hyperspectral, and polarization-based imaging

Pattern recognition deals with the detection and identification of a specific target in an unknown input scene. Target features such as shape, color, surface dynamics, and material characteristics are common target attributes used for identification and detection purposes. Pattern recognition using multispectral (MS), hyperspectral (HS), and polarization-based spectral (PS) imaging can be effectively exploited to highlight one or more of these attributes for more efficient target identification and detection. In general, pattern recognition involves two steps: gathering target information from sensor data and identifying and detecting the desired target from sensor data in the presence of noise, clutter, and other artifacts. Multispectral and hyperspectral imaging (MSI/HSI) provide both spectral and spatial information about the target. As the reflection or emission spectral signatures depend on the elemental composition of objects residing within the scene, the polarization state of radiation is sensitive to the surface features such as relative smoothness or roughness, surface material, shapes and edges, etc. Therefore, polarization information imparted by surface reflections of the target yields unique and discriminatory signatures which could be used to augment spectral target detection techniques, through the fusion of sensor data. Sensor data fusion is currently being used to effectively recognize and detect one or more of the target attributes. However, variations between sensors and temporal changes within sensors can introduce noise in the measurements, contributing to additional target variability that hinders the detection process. This paper provides a quick overview of target identification and detection using MSI/HSI, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each. It then discusses the effectiveness of using polarization-based imaging in highlighting some of the target attributes at single and multiple spectral bands using polarization spectral imaging (PSI), known as spectropolarimetry imaging.
Computer algebra tailored to matrix inequalities in control

A major advance in linear systems theory over the last decade has been a formalism for converting systems problems to matrix inequalities. In this tutorial paper we describe computer algebra algorithms, methodology, and implementation which allows users to convert many systems problems to linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). We shall focus on computer algebra methodology which can assist the user in producing LMIs for control design. We provide a step-by-step computer derivation of LMI formulas for the design of linear time-invariant dynamic controllers that achieve a prespecified performance measured by the H ∞ norm of a certain closed loop transfer function.
Rare male aggression directed toward females in a female-dominated society: Baiting behavior in the spotted hyena

Spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) are gregarious carnivores. The females are socially dominant to males, and adult males rarely direct aggression toward adult females. This study analyzed all cases in which adult immigrant males behaved aggressively toward adult females in a large population of free-living hyenas in Kenya, observed for 11 years. Our goals were to describe the conditions under which male attacks on females occur, and address possible adaptive functions. Most aggression directed by adult immigrant males against females occurred when coalitions of two or more males attacked a single adult female, who typically responded by defending herself and fighting back. Male aggression against females frequently occurred at sites of ungulate kills, but males never behaved aggressively toward females over food, and all male attacks on females were unprovoked. Although no mounting or other copulatory behaviors ever occurred during or immediately after an attack, the number of male attacks on females peaked around the time of conception. Daily rates at which males attacked females did not vary with female social rank. However, daily attack rates did vary significantly with female reproductive state, and the highest rates of male attack on females were observed during the two stages of the reproductive cycle during which females were most likely to conceive litters. The adaptive significance of male aggression against females in this species remains unknown, but a tight association between male attacks on females and a female's time of conception provides strong evidence of some role for male aggression in hyena sexual behavior. In particular, our data are consistent with hypotheses suggesting that male aggression toward females in this species either serves to inform females about male fitness or represents sexual harassment. Aggr. Behav. 29:457–474, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cycles of Contention: The Rise and Fall of the Tea Party

Right wing populism has typically consisted of anti-statist/elitist mobilizations by the ‘common people’ opposed to government policies and/or various out-groups. Such cycles of contention, typically prompted by various social changes and/or crises, have long been an essential feature of American society. The Tea Party (Parties) appeared in 2009 as a response to economic stagnation and crisis, secular challenges to traditional religious identities and the election of an African American president. The Tea Partiers were generally highly conservative, highly religious, rural/suburban, lower middle class Republicans. Such movements might be best understood as reactionary ‘resistance movements’ that attempt to defend and retain traditional identities and statuses based on race, patriarchy and hetero-normativity that have been under assault by late modern ‘network’ society. Such movements, prompted by anger, rage and ressentiment may garner attention and even wider support, but if/when they gain power, they fo...
Comparative studies on fire-rated and standard gypsum wallboard

The long-term goal of this research is to improve the fire resistance of gypsum wallboard (GWB). GWB consists mainly of gypsum, i.e., calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO4·2H2O. In buildings, the chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of GWB play an important role in delaying the spread of fire. To build a fire resistant GWB, it is very important to study the thermal, mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of regular GWB and various types of fire resistant wallboards available commercially in the market. Various fire resistant GWBs have been compared and contrasted with reference to a standard wallboard in this study. Regardless of the type of wallboard, the main component is gypsum. The fire resistance property is mainly attributed to the absorption of energy related with the loss of hydrate water going from the dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O) form to the hemihydrate (CaSO4·½H2O) and from the hemihydrate to the anhydrous form (CaSO4) in a second decomposition. The present paper is a comparative study of commercially available standard, fire-rated Type X, and fire-rated Type C GWBs. Type X wallboards are typically reinforced with non-combustible fibers so as to protect the integrity of the wallboard during thermal shrinkage, while the Type C wallboards are incorporated with more glass fibers and an additive, usually a form of vermiculite. These Type C wallboards have a shrinkage adjusting element that expands when exposed to elevated temperature. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, thermomechanical analysis, and powder X-ray diffraction were used to characterize and compare the materials. Various properties, such as the heat flow, mass loss, dimensional changes, morphology, and crystalline structures of the GWBs were studied using these techniques.
Choosing reserve networks with incomplete species information

Existing methods for selecting reserve networks require data on the presence or absence of species at various sites. This information, however, is virtually always incomplete. In this paper, we analyze methods for choosing priority conservation areas when there is incomplete information about species distributions. We formulate a probabilistic model and find the reserve network that represents the greatest expected number of species. We compare the reserve network chosen using this approach with reserve networks chosen when the data is treated as if presence/absence information is known and traditional approaches are used. We find that the selection of sites differs when using probabilistic data to maximize the expected number of species represented versus using the traditional approaches. The broad geographic pattern of which sites are chosen remains similar across these different methods but some significant differences in site selection emerge when probabilities of species occurrences are not near 0 or 1.
Organization of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive neurons in the di- and mesencephalon of the American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) during metamorphosis.

We examined the immunocytochemical distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine synthesis, in the di-and mesencephalon of developing bullfrog tadpoles. Special attention was given to catecholaminergic innervation of the median eminence and pituitary. In premetamorphic tadpoles, tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive neurons were visualized in the suprachiasmatic and infundibular hypothalamus, the ventral thalamus, and midbrain tegmentum by Taylor-Kollros stage V. The number of labeled neurons in all these areas increased as metamorphosis progressed. By mid-prometamorphosis, labeled neurons appeared in the preoptic recess organ as well as in the posterior thalamic nucleus. The majority of cells in the preoptic recess organ, as well as occasional neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, exhibited labeled processes which projected through the ependymal lining of the preoptic recess to contact cerebrospinal fluid. The modified CSF-contacting neurons of the nucleus of the periventricular organ were devoid of specific staining. By late prometamorphosis, labeled fibers from the suprachiasmatic nucleus were observed projecting caudally to enter the hypothalamo-hypophysial-tract en route to innervating the median eminence and pituitary. Labeled fibers arising from the dorsal infundibular nucleus projected ventrolaterally to contribute to catecholaminergic innervation of the median eminence and pituitary. Immunoperoxidase staining of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive fibers and terminal arborizations in the median eminence were restricted to non-ependymal layers, while labeled fibers in the pituitary were observed in the pars intermedia and pars nervosa. Staining of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive fibers in the median eminence and pituitary was sparse or absent in premetamorphic tadpoles, but became increasingly more intense as metamorphosis progressed.
The effect of prostacyclin on the human umbilical artery.

Prostacyclin was tested on human umbilical artery obtained after spontaneous delivery or by Cesarean section. Isometric and isotonic responses were measured on spiral preparations in Krebs-bicarbonate buffer at 37°C equilibrated with 95% O2 and 5% CO2. Spiral artery strips, whether superfused or mounted in organ baths isometrically or isotonically, responded in a dose-dependent manner to both prostacyclin and serotonin; the PGI2 response was biphasic in that low doses (2.5 × 10-8 M - 1.0 × 10-6 M) elicited a dose-dependent relaxation which changed with higher concentrations (1.0 × 10-6 M - 2.53 × 105 M) to a contractile response. The maximum tension exerte was 50% less than that elicited by serotonin. The data indicate that the human umbilical artery is responsive to prostacyclin and may be involved in the regulation of fetal placenta blood flow.
Early discharge after nonoperative management for splenic injuries: increased patient risk caused by late failure?

Background With increasing experience and knowledge about nonoperative management of splenic injury (NOMSI), patients are being discharged early and possibly placed at risk for late failure of NOMSI and its associated complications. To evaluate if blunt trauma patients managed by NOMSI can be safely discharged early, because failure after the third day from injury occurs infrequently and is not associated with added morbidity. Methods The medical records of patients who failed NOMSI from January 1993 to December 2005 in an academic level 1 trauma center were reviewed. Patients who failed NOMSI within 3 days (early failure) were compared with patients who failed it after 3 days (late failure) to identify characteristics that may help predict late failure. Primary outcomes were complications and death related to late failure. Results Of 691 patients admitted with blunt trauma to the spleen, 499 (72%) had NOMSI and 36 (7%) failed it. Early failure was recorded in 26 patients (5%) and late failure in 10 (2%). Late bleeding was the cause of failure in all patients with late failure and occurred in 8 ± 6 (mean ± SD) days after admission (4-8 days in 7 patients and 12-22 days in 3). When comparing age, Injury Severity Score, hemotocrit on admission, preoperative blood transfusions, and grade of splenic injury, no differences were found between patients with early and late failure. All but 1 patient with late failure were still in the hospital for associated injuries at the time of failure. No patient died, had delayed diagnosis, or suffered added morbidity because of late failure. Conclusion Late failure occurs infrequently, unpredictably, and almost always in patients who are still in the hospital for associated injuries. In-hospital observation beyond the third day after injury is not necessary for most patients with splenic injury, who have no other reason to remain hospitalized.
Are body mass and parasite load related to social partnerships and mating in Microtus ochrogaster

Abstract Within socially monogamous species, a male's reproductive success depends on his success at obtaining a social partner with which he mates, as well as gaining extra-pair matings. We investigated the impacts of body mass and parasitism on 2 measures of a male's success at obtaining a social partner (number of female social associations and relative strength of a social bond to a single female) and 2 measures of reproduction (number of females with which a male sires offspring and the number of offspring sired) in natural populations of prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) located in Kansas and Indiana. Kansas males with greater endoparasite loads were less likely to have one social partner. Instead, they associated with multiple females although they did not sire offspring with more females than males with lower levels of endoparasitism. We did not find any relationship between endoparasite infestation and the number of females with which males associated in Indiana. There was no association betwe...
Molecular regulation of H3K4 trimethylation by ASH2L, a shared subunit of MLL complexes

MLL complexes are homologs of yeast COMPASS capable of methylating histone H3 Lys4 (H3K4). ASH2L, RbBP5 and WDR5 are conserved subunits of MLL complexes with homology to the Cps40/Cps60, Cps50 and Cps30 subunits of COMPASS, respectively. We report that ASH2L differentially regulates MLL's catalysis of H3K4 trimethylation similarly to Cps40 and Cps60. Furthermore, WDR5 is required to maintain MLL complex integrity, including the stability of ASH2L within the complex. These findings offer insight into the molecular role of ASH2L, and by extension that of WDR5, in proper H3K4 trimethylation.
Sexual dysfunction common in people with coronary heart disease, but few cardiovascular changes actually occur during sexual activity.

Commentary on: Bispo GS, de Lima Lopes J, de Barros AL. Cardiovascular changes resulting from sexual activity and sexual dysfunction after myocardial infarction: integrative review. J Clin Nurs 2013;22:3522–31.[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3] Patients with post-MI often report physical and psychological concerns related to sexual activity.1 Anxiety stems from fear of MI or presumed risks, while physical concerns often result from sexual problems, sexual dysfunction and changes in sexual activity.1–3 Bispo and colleagues conducted an evidence-based review that analysed the risks associated with post-MI sexual activity and sexual dysfunction. This integrative literature review was conducted … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DJ%2BClin%2BNurs%26rft.volume%253D22%26rft.spage%253D3522%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1111%252Fjocn.12356%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F23786630%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.1111/jocn.12356&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=23786630&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febnurs%2F18%2F1%2F19.atom
The effect of pH upon the photosynthesis of littoral marine algae

The photosynthetic rates of a number of littoral marine algae were determined over a pH range from 8.1 to 10.3, employing the Winkler technique to measure evolved oxygen. In a large number of red, brown and green algae, the rate fell to a low value, or to complete inhibition, at pH 9.5 and higher. This indicates, in conformity with general permeability theory, that the HCO3 }-ion cannot readily penetrate the cells, and is hence not available for photosynthesis. However, in two genera of coralline red algae (Bossea andCorallina) photosynthesis persists up to pH 10 or higher (though at a considerably reduced rate). This can be interpreted as due to utilization of the HCO3 }-ion (though probably not the CO3=ion). But several other non-coralline red algae (Centroceras, Botryocladia andGastroclonium), as well as the brown algaPelvetia (and possiblyFucus), and the green algaeUlva andEnteromorpha display this same ability. Thus the utilization of HCO3 }-ion cannot alone be ascribed as the cause of calcium carbonate deposition, since several other non-calcareous algae have this same power. The utilization of HCO3 }-at least permits calcification, however. The question might be reversed, to ask whyUlva, Enteromorpha. Pelvetia and several red algae are not calcified. Some cell wall property may be involved.
Activity-dependent phosphorylation of neuronal Kv2.1 potassium channels by CDK5

Dynamic modulation of ion channel expression, localization, and/or function drives plasticity in intrinsic neuronal excitability. Voltage-gated Kv2.1 potassium channels are constitutively maintained in a highly phosphorylated state in neurons. Increased neuronal activity triggers rapid calcineurin-dependent dephosphorylation, loss of channel clustering, and hyperpolarizing shifts in voltage-dependent activation that homeostatically suppress neuronal excitability. These changes are reversible, such that rephosphorylation occurs after removal of excitatory stimuli. Here, we show that cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), a Pro-directed Ser/Thr protein kinase, directly phosphorylates Kv2.1, and determines the constitutive level of Kv2.1 phosphorylation, the rapid increase in Kv2.1 phosphorylation upon acute blockade of neuronal activity, and the recovery of Kv2.1 phosphorylation after stimulus-induced dephosphorylation. We also demonstrate that although the phosphorylation state of Kv2.1 is also shaped by the activity of the PP1 protein phosphatase, the regulation of Kv2.1 phosphorylation by CDK5 is not mediated through the previously described regulation of PP1 activity by CDK5. Together, these studies support a novel role for CDK5 in regulating Kv2.1 channels through direct phosphorylation.
Using maps to retrieve text : a test of conjoint retention

Abstract Two experiments tested the conjoint retention model by having undergraduates learn an intact map and text, and then see the map as a retrieval cue, in either its original form or a reorganized format. Subjects remembered more text events when cued by the original map. The pattern of results supports the assumption that image representations of maps improve text recall only when they retain both feature and structural properties available during encoding.
Modelling of evaporation and condensation pressure drop in microfin tubes

AbstractA semi-empirical model to predict the pressure drop of pure refrigerants and refrigerant mixtures in microfin tubes for both condensation and evaporation is presented. The new pressure-drop model is based on an existing smooth-tube correlation. The model was validated using experimental data compiled from published literature and this showed that the model is capable of predicting pressure drops for different refrigerants and refrigerant mixtures within 10–25 per cent mean absolute deviation. This model can be employed in micro-fin tubes with fin heights from 0.1 to 0.38 mm, helix angles from 0 to 30°, and mass flux ranges up to 600 kg/m2 s.
The effects of humor on perceptions of compliance‐gaining in the college classroom

The purpose of this study is to explore humor as a factor in students’ perceptions of college teacher compliance‐gaining in the classroom. Four hundred twenty‐eight college students reported the frequency of their college teachers’ uses of compliance‐gaining tactics, the frequency of humor uses with compliance‐gaining tactics, and the effectiveness of humor used with compliance‐gaining tactics. Results revealed positive and significant relationships between humor uses and uses of particular compliance‐gaining strategies. Findings suggest that students perceive teachers to use humor more frequently with certain compliance‐gaining tactics. Moreover, students reported that certain compliance‐gaining tactics are perceived as more effective than others.
The dynamic Jahn–Teller effect in sym‐triazine: Nonadiabatic wave functions and hindered fluxionality

The complex vibronic structure resolved in the two‐photon absorption spectrum of the 3s 1E’ Rydberg state of sym‐triazine is quantitatively assigned in terms of a simple Jahn–Teller two‐state electronic Hamiltonian coupled to second order by a single active mode, ν6. For Jahn–Teller linear and quadratic terms, k=2.14, and g=0.046 (in units of the zeroth‐order frequency), eigenvalues of this Hamiltonian fit positions and splittings of more than 25 measured bands to within an average deviation of 0.5%. Eigenvectors show evidence of strong mixings of adiabatic states and of linear Jahn–Teller wave functions by quadratic (localization) effects, both of which are confirmed by quantitative agreement between measured and calculated band intensities. Adiabatic potential energy surfaces are calculated, and exact nonadiabatic quantum mechanical results are compared with various levels of approximation. This comparison shows that the simple model of an adiabatic free rotor/radial oscillator serves well to qualitativ...
The nature of some protein microenvironmental effects

Abstract Certain dyes respond to environmental polar and electrostatic changes with corresponding alterations in their visible spectra. An interpretation of this phenomenon occurring when these dyes interact with some blood proteins is used to describe polar and electrostatic properties of their binding sites.
Is expatriation good for my career? The impact of expatriate assignments on perceived and actual career outcomes

This study examines the impact of expatriate assignments on career growth and the external marketability of US employees of a large professional services firm. We use survey and archival data to compare expatriates currently overseas, repatriates, and domestic US employees on compensation, recent promotions, and external recruiting contacts. We then examine how actual pay, promotions, and external recruiting influences anticipated salary growth within the firm and external employment opportunities. We find that despite little or no impact on their current careers, employees with overseas work experience perceived greater internal and external opportunities than domestic US employees. Implications for managers and researchers are discussed.
Computational Reconstruction of Scattering Objects from Holograms

This paper reports the successful computational determination of structural detail in a simple transparent object through holographic measurement of scattered monochromatic light. The complex disturbance of the scattered light is measured in amplitude and phase, along a line transverse to the illumination in the Fresnel zone of the object. The scattering potential of the object is then calculated along a parallel line using the field data and a new inverse scattering theory. The results agree well with the known parameters of the two test objects, a high-quality and a low-quality right parallelepiped aligned with two faces normal to the illumination. This experiment is believed to be the first which includes the quantitative reconstruction of structure in a physical object from measurement of scattered light. The technique is somewhat similar to that employed in connection with reconstruction of crystal structures from x-ray diffraction experiments.
Microfluidic platforms for plant cells studies

Conventional methods of plant cell analysis rely on growing plant cells in soil pots or agarose plates, followed by screening the plant phenotypes in traditional greenhouses and growth chambers. These methods are usually costly, need a large number of experiments, suffer from low spatial resolution and disorderly growth behavior of plant cells, with lack of ability to locally and accurately manipulate the plant cells. Microfluidic platforms take advantage of miniaturization for handling small volume of liquids and providing a closed environment, with the purpose of in vitro single cell analysis and characterizing cell response to external cues. These platforms have shown their ability for high-throughput cellular analysis with increased accuracy of experiments, reduced cost and experimental times, versatility in design, ability for large-scale and combinatorial screening, and integration with other miniaturized sensors. Despite extensive research on animal cells within microfluidic environments for high-throughput sorting, manipulation and phenotyping studies, the application of microfluidics for plant cells studies has not been accomplished yet. Novel devices such as RootChip, RootArray, TipChip, and PlantChip developed for plant cells analysis, with high spatial resolution on a micrometer scale mimicking the internal microenvironment of plant cells, offering preliminary results on the capability of microfluidics to conquer the constraints of conventional methods. These devices have been used to study different aspects of plant cell biology such as gene expression, cell biomechanics, cellular mechanism of growth, cell division, and cells fusion. This review emphasizes the advantages of current microfluidic systems for plant science studies, and discusses future prospects of microfluidic platforms for characterizing plant cells response to diverse external cues.
Quality assurance for a local government geographic information system: A geo-facilities project perspective

Abstract Of all the procedures utilized in the conversion phase of implementing a Geographic Information System (GIS), perhaps the most important are those pertaining to quality assurance. It is especially important that sound quality assurance procedures be established for the conversion of the base data or base layer, as erroneous data may be carried into subsequent databases, thus compounding problems and diminishing the perceived usefulness of the system. This article discusses the quality assurance process and control procedures invoked in the conversion of the property base layer for Alachua County, Florida (GEOMAX project). Since the Alachua County GIS employs a facility management model, specific examples of quality control procedures presented are from that perspective. However, common problems encountered during the conversion process of GIS projects are discussed, along with solutions used to locate and correct those problems within the GEOMAX project.