cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social spacing in the mormyrid fish Gnathonemus petersii (Pisces): A multisensory approach

Abstract The sensory basis of group cohesion in the weak-electric fish Gnathonemus petersii was investigated in a circular tank with groups of four fish each, interacting through a wide-meshed plastic screen with intact or operated conspecifics, or with other stimulus objects. We confined these stimuli to one or two peripheral holding compartments. The response measures were obtained from the free swimming fish and included (1) the time the fish spent together as a group, (2) the time they spent in front of the holding compartments, (3) the circular distribution of the fish's positions, and (4) the mean nearest neighbour distances. Under empty compartment conditions, four different groups were tested, consisting of either (1) intact, electrically active fish, or (2) electrically ‘silent’ fish (with their electric organ surgically rendered inoperative), or (3) blind, or (4) ‘silent’ and blind animals. The loss of either sensory modality, vision or feedback from electric organ discharge, led to changes of comparable size, decreasing the time spent as a group and increasing the mean nearest neighbour distance. In fish lacking both modalities, group cohesion was further impaired. With stimuli present in one or both holding compartments, the strength of social attraction depended on the nature of the stimulus: the more intact stimulus conspecifics were present, the more densely did the fish group in front of the stimulus compartment. ‘Wired-in’ electric organ discharges (simulating waveform and intensity) and electrically ‘silent’ fish were equally attractive, but only half as attractive as intact fish. Blind free swimming fish aggregated with intact and also with ‘silent’ conspecifics. Under dim light conditions, group cohesion was predominantly, though not exclusively, affected by electrosensory feedback from the electric organ discharge and visual input. Mechanical and olfactory cues may also be involved.
The Dinosaurs of Arctic Alaska

This article discusses the author's discovery of evidence that dinosaurs thrived in the harsh Alaskan climate. No one has yet excavated a complete dinosaur skeleton from anywhere in Alaska. Nevertheless, my group and other paleontologists have been able to identify from partial skeletons, isolated bones, teeth and fossil footprints eight types of dinosaurs that lived as contemporaries in the far north. All eight date to the Cretaceous period, which lasted from 145 million to 65 million years ago. The duck-billed hadrosaur Edmontosaurus earns the prize for the most common type there and so is the best characterized. During the Cretaceous, northern Alaska was even farther north than it is today, and so the dinosaurs that lived there would have needed mechanisms to cope with both the cold and the dark. INSETS: Overview/Arctic Dinos;Serendipity in Storage.
Implications of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis functioning in posttraumatic stress disorder.

Background: Cortisol secretions serve as the barometer of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates and controls responses to stress. Studies of cortisol secretions in patients...
Estimates of wind energy input to the Ekman layer in the Southern Ocean from surface drifter data

[1] The energy input to the upper ocean Ekman layer is assessed for the Southern Ocean by examining the rotary cross spectrum between wind stress and surface velocity for frequencies between 0 and 2 cpd. The wind stress is taken from European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts ERA-40 reanalysis, and drifter measurements from 15 m depth are used to represent surface velocities, with an adjustment to account for the vertical structure of the upper ocean. The energy input occurs mostly through the nonzero frequencies rather than the mean. Phenomenologically, the combination of a stronger anticyclonic wind stress forcing associated with a greater anticyclonic response makes the contribution from the anticyclonic frequencies dominate the wind energy input. The latitudinal and seasonal variations of the wind energy input to the Ekman layer are closely related to the variations of the wind stress, both for the mean and for the time-varying components. The contribution from the near-inertial band follows a different trend, increasing from 30°S to about 45°S and decreasing further south, possibly a consequence of the lack of variance in this band in the drifter and wind stress data.
IN THE CLOSET WITH ILLNESS: EPILEPSY, STIGMA POTENTIAL AND INFORMATION CONTROL*

In this paper we extend and modity the metaphor of being in or out of the closet to analyze how people manage information to control the stigma potential of epilepsy. Based on 80 depth interviews, our analysis offers an “insider's” perception of stigma. We demonstrate how concealment strategies can be learned from coaches, that strategies for concealment vary, and that rather than simply indicating a situation one is in or out of, the closet of epilepsy has a revolving door. We also find, paradoxically, that both “instrumental telling” and concealing can be means to the same ends. We conclude by discussing how being in the closet with illness doubly isolates individuals from one another.
Satisfaction, commitment, and psychological well-being among HMO physicians

Objective To identify the factors that predict professional satisfaction, organizational commitment, and burnout among physicians working for health maintenance organizations (HMOs). Methods and participants Data came from mail surveys of Kaiser Permanente physicians in the Northwest and Ohio regions. The average response rate was 80% (n = 608). Results The single most important predictor for all 3 outcomes was a sense of control over the practice environment. Other significant predictors included perceived work demands, social support from colleagues, and satisfaction with resources. The relative importance of these predictors varied, depending on the outcome under consideration. All 3 outcomes were also related to physician age and specialty. Older physicians had higher levels of satisfaction and commitment and lower levels of burnout. Pediatricians were more satisfied and committed to the HMO and were less likely to burn out. Conclusions Physicians who perceive greater control over the practice environment, who perceive that their work demands are reasonable, and who have more support from colleagues have higher levels of satisfaction, commitment to the HMO, and psychological well-being. Interventions and administrative changes that give physicians more control over how they do their professional work and that enhance social supports are likely to improve both physician morale and performance.
Cellular Uptake of Carbon Nanotubes Conjugated to Semiconductor Quantum Dots for Breast Cancer Imaging and Treatment Applications

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are attractive materials for early detection, treatment, and imaging of cancer malignancies; however, they are limited by their inability to be monitored in vitro and in vivo [1]. Unlabeled CNTs are difficult to distinguish using elemental analysis because they are composed entirely of carbon, which is also characteristic of cellular membranes. Although some single walled nanotubes (SWNT) have been found to exhibit fluorescent properties, not all particles in a single batch fluoresce [2]. Additionally, these emissions may be too weak to be detected using conventional imaging modalities [3]. Incorporating fluorescent markers, such as fluorescent proteins or quantum dots, allows the non-fluorescent particles to be visualized. Previously, fluorophores, such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) or red fluorescent protein (RFP), have been used to visualize and track cells or other particles in biological environments, but their low quantum yield and tendency to photobleach generate limitations for their use in such applications.© 2010 ASME
Enhancing performance of amorphous SiGe single junction solar cells by post-deposition thermal annealing

Abstract In this work, amorphous silicon-germanium (a-SiGe:H) p-i-n single junction solar cells are fabricated using a 40 MHz plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition system. Their s-curve characteristics were observed by current density-voltage measurements. Thermal annealing of cells at 150 °C in a vacuum effectively overcame the s-curve behavior. Additionally, comparing the external quantum efficiency spectra of annealed samples with those of as-deposited samples revealed that the spectral response of annealed cells was higher in the long wavelength range (600 ~ 900 nm). Raman spectroscopy and electrical conductivity analyses revealed that the n-type microcrystalline silicon (n-μc-Si:H) layers of as-deposited cells were not optimal. Experimental results indicate that the i/n barrier heights of the as-deposited and annealed samples were 0.31 eV and 0.20 eV , respectively. The high energy barrier implies that the bad collection ability of charge carriers near the i/n interfaces of solar cells. An energy conversion efficiency of 6.38% was achieved after post-deposition annealing. The improvement in efficiency is concluded to have been caused largely by retention of n-μc-Si:H layers of high crystallinity and electrical conductivity after annealing.
Magnetic nanoparticle biosensors

One of the major challenges in medicine is the rapid and accurate measurement of protein biomarkers, cells, and pathogens in biological samples. A number of new diagnostic platforms have recently been developed to measure biomolecules and cells with high sensitivity that could enable early disease detection or provide valuable insights into biology at the systems level. Most biological samples exhibit negligible magnetic susceptibility; therefore, magnetic nanoparticles have been used for diverse applications including biosensing, magnetic separation, and thermal ablation therapy. This review focuses on the use of magnetic nanoparticles for detection of biomolecules and cells based on magnetic resonance effects using a general detection platform termed diagnostic magnetic resonance (DMR). DMR technology encompasses numerous assay configurations and sensing principles, and to date magnetic nanoparticle biosensors have been designed to detect a wide range of targets including DNA/mRNA, proteins, enzymes, drugs, pathogens, and tumor cells. The core principle behind DMR is the use of magnetic nanoparticles as proximity sensors that modulate the spin-spin relaxation time of neighboring water molecules, which can be quantified using clinical MRI scanners or benchtop nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometers. Recently, the capabilities of DMR technology were advanced considerably with the development of miniaturized, chip-based NMR (microNMR) detector systems that are capable of performing highly sensitive measurements on microliter sample volumes and in multiplexed format. With these and future advances in mind, DMR biosensor technology holds considerable promise to provide a high-throughput, low-cost, and portable platform for large scale molecular and cellular screening in clinical and point-of-care settings.
Comparison of tyrosinase activity in the integument of xanthic and albino goldfish, Carassius auratus L.

Abstract 1. 1. A tyrosinase-positive form of oculocutaneous albinism in the goldfish is described. 2. 2. Both tyrosinase and peroxidase activity are present in the integuments of xanthic and albino goldfish. 3. 3. The lack of integumental melanin pigmentation in both xanthic and albino goldfish is due, in part, to the presence of tyrosinase inhibitors. 4. 4. The tyrosinase inhibitors present in the integument of xanthic and albino goldfish have different properties. 5. 5. Triton X-100 treatment solubilizes xanthic and albino goldfish integumental tyrosinase.
Controlling the growth and luminescence properties of well-faceted ZnO nanorods

In this work, we synthesized ZnO nanorods by a wet chemical process. By varying different parameters of the synthesis process like precursor concentration, solvent used, surfactant, temperature, and reaction time, we were able to control the aspect ratio (l/d) and sharpness factor (Sf = h/b) of the rods. Rods with an aspect ratio of ∼20 and a sharpness factor of 10 were repeatedly obtained and characterized from scanning electron microscopy. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and dark field analysis revealed that nanorods grow as a single crystal along the c axis [0001]. UV and visible emission was obtained in both flat- and sharp-terminated rods. According to the XPS analysis, rods present an excess of Zn2+ of ∼4% that is responsible for the strong yellow emission band. Such defects were removed by annealing of the sample at 200 °C for 2 h. Possible mechanisms of changes in the morphology produced by changes in the synthesis process are also discussed.
Use of Carbon Dioxide to Calibrate Instruments for Determination of Carbon below 50 Parts per Million in Metals.

Carbon dioxide for instrument calibration in chromatographic determination of carbon in metal
Africana Studies’ Epistemic Identity: An Analysis of Theory and Epistemology in the Discipline

The present study explores what is revealed about the epistemetic characteristics Africana Studies through an analysis of theories in the discipline. Race/ethnic specific theories in Africana Studies are subjected to a reductive analysis to identify the most common qualities they possess. The results indicate that although Africana Studies theories seek to explain a wide range of dimensions of the lives of people of African descent, they have several common characteristics, such as: Recognition of the Necessity of Cultural Specificity, Prioritization of Africana Needs and Interests, Heterogeneous Collectivism, Collective Emancipation and Empowerment, Agency and Self Consciousness, Historical Location, Cultural Situating, Recognizing the Shaping Effects of Oppression and Liberation, and Intersectionality. The present study helps to distinguish the unique approach to knowing in Africana Studies. Moreover, the data may be utilized to guide theory development in the discipline.
Glucocorticoid administration increases receptor-mediated and forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation in rat brain cerebral cortical slices

Abstract Experiments were undertaken to examine the influence of dexamethasone administration on adrenergic receptor-mediated cAMP accumulation in rat brain cerebral cortical slices. While the initial response to continuous treatment with dexamethasone or ACTH was a decrease in the α-adrenergic receptor-mediated augmentation of isoproterenol-stimulated cAMP production, more prolonged administration of these substances also increased β-adrenergic receptor-stimulated cAMP accumulation. Dose-response studies revealed a dose-dependent increase in β-adrenergic receptor-stimulated cAMP production. Prolonged administration of either dexamethasone or ACTH also increased 2-chloradenosine-, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-, and forskolin-stimulated cAMP production in the brain slice. These results, together with previous findings, suggest that glucocorticoids have at least two effects on the brain neurotransmitter receptor-coupled cAMP generating system which may be important for maintaining homeostasis during times of stress.
Diallel analysis of gene effects conditioning resistance to Stagonospora nodorum (Berk.) in wheat

Stagonospora nodorum (Berk.) blotch (SNB) is a fungal disease that affects all aboveground parts of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants. Stagonospora nodorum blotch causes serious losses in grain yield and seed quality of wheat grown in the southeastern USA. The objective of this study was to conduct a genetic analysis of components of partial resistance to SNB in wheat. Ten lines of soft and hard winter wheats that varied in resistance to SNB were used in two sets of intra-wheat-class half-diallel matings. Seedling plants of parents, F 1 crosses, and F 2 populations were inoculated at the two-leaf stage with spores of SNB in a humidity chamber to determine incubation period (IP), latent period (LP), and necrosis percentage (NP). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed highly significant differences for IP and NP among hard wheat crosses in both F, and F 2 generations. Highly significant differences for IP were noted among soft wheat F 1 crosses. Significant differences for NP were observed among soft wheat F 1 and F 2 crosses. General combining ability (GCA) was found to be the major component of variation among crosses. For hard wheats, both IP and NP of partial resistance had significant GCA effects, but none had significant specific combining ability (SCA) effects. The results from soft wheat also indicated that GCA was more important than SCA in the inheritance of resistance to SNB. Two hard wheat parents, TX84V344 and SWM14240, and one soft wheat parent, 18NT should be very seful as SNB-resistant breeding lines.
Baseball's All-Time Best Hitters: How Statistics Can Level the Playing Field and Baseball's All-Time Best Sluggers: Adjusted Batting Performance from Strikeouts to Home Runs

(2006). Baseball's All-Time Best Hitters: How Statistics Can Level the Playing Field and Baseball's All-Time Best Sluggers: Adjusted Batting Performance from Strikeouts to Home Runs. The American Statistician: Vol. 60, No. 1, pp. 97-97.
Middle School Students’ Understanding of Core Algebraic Concepts: Equivalence & Variable

Algebra is a focal point of reform efforts in mathematics education, with many mathematics educators advocating that algebraic reasoning should be integrated at all grade levels K-12. Recent research has begun to investigate algebra reform in the context of elementary school (grades K-5) mathematics, focusing in particular on the development of algebraic reasoning. Yet, to date, little research has focused on the development of algebraic reasoning in middle school (grades 6–8). This article focuses on middle school students’ understanding of two core algebraic ideas—equivalence and variable—and the relationship of their understanding to performance on problems that require use of these two ideas. The data suggest that students’ understanding of these core ideas influences their success in solving problems, the strategies they use in their solution processes, and the justifications they provide for their solutions. Implications for instruction and curricular design are discussed.
Design of viral dynamic studies for efficiently assessing potency of anti-HIV therapies in AIDS Clinical Trials

The study of HIV dynamics is one of the most important developments in recent AIDS research. It greatly improves our understanding of the pathogenesis of HIV infection. Recently it has been proposed to use HIV dynamics to evaluate the efficacy of antiviral treatments. Currently a large number of AIDS clinical trials on HIV dynamics are in development worldwide. However, many design issues that arise from HIV dynamic studies have not been addressed. In this paper, we study these problems using intensive Monte Carlo simulations and analytic methods. We evaluate a finite number of feasible candidate designs, which are currently used and proposed in AIDS clinical trials from different perspectives. We compare the viral dynamic marker and classical viral load change markers in terms of power for identifying treatment difference, asymptotic relative efficiency, and sensitivity. Finally we propose some useful suggestions for practitioners based on our results.
Transient ischemia attenuates neuronal afterdischarges induced in the absence of synaptic transmission

In vitro hippocampal slices were prepared from animals previously subjected to a 10-min period of transient forebrain ischemia. Electrophysiological responses were examined in the selectively vulnerable CA1 region in the presence of standard (2.0 mM) and reduced (0.2 mM) calcium concentrations. Synaptic responses evoked by orthodromic stimulation in standard calcium were intact following ischemia. In contrast, repetitive neuronal discharges, which are normally evoked by antidromic stimulation in the presence of low calcium concentrations, were attenuated or eliminated following ischemia. The possible contributions of presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms to post-ischemic hyperexcitability are discussed.
ASSESSING THE VIABILITY OF REUSABLE PACKAGING: A RELATIVE COST APPROACH

While environmentally friendly operations can provide a positive public image, firms wishing to reduce their environmental impact must initiate activities that reduce cost as well. Reusable container systems are one means of reducing environmental waste, but the economics of such systems has been somewhat uncertain to date. This research proposes a cost model to evaluate the combined impact of logistics and packaging costs on the container decision. Additionally, a simulation/regression analysis is used to analyze model results to determine the relative importance and interactions between container decision factors.
Predicting national sustainability: The convergence of energetic, economic and environmental realities

Abstract The “constraint space” dictated by energetic, economic and environmental realities on scenarios for future organization of humanity and nature is explored from the perspective of the energy and resources driving economies. Net energy of energy sources is presented as an index (Emergy Yield Ratio; EYR) that must be evaluated for energy sources to better understand their potential contributions to society, but more important, as an indicator of the changes needed in the future if lower net yielding sources are to be relied upon. An aggregate EYR was calculated for the USA economy and shown to have decreased by 38% since 1950, from 11/1 to 6.8/1. Several measures of efficiency at the scale of national economies are explored and the data suggest that the most efficient economies are also the most energetically intense (as measured by empower intensity). An index of environmental loading is suggested as a measure to evaluate environmental efficacy. An obvious outcome is that the smallest most energetically intense countries have the highest environmental loads, and those with large land area and/or continental shelves have the lowest ratios. An Emergy Sustainability Index (EmSI) is defined, computed for countries, and proposed as a multi-dimensional measure of long-term sustainability. The most sustainable economies are those with the highest EYR and lowest environmental loads.
Tillage and N fertilization effects on maize root growth and root:shoot ratio

Two methods for estimating the size of the maize (Zea mays l.) root system from soil cores taken in the field were compared. The spatially weighed block method of estimation accounted for variation in root density by using 18 samples per plant which varied in distance from plant and soil depth. This method was compared to an estimation which averaged all of the 18 samples together. Both methods gave surprisingly similar estimates for total root growth. Increased root growth in the surface soil layers, due to tillage and N fertilization, did not impact on the estimation of total root growth. Total root length remained unchanged or increased with N fertilization, while root weight remained the same or decreased. Root mass per length decreased with N fertilization. The estimated size of the root system was used to calculate root:shoot weight ratios. The largest root:shoot ratio was found in the vegetative stage and decreased throughout the rest of the season. In this field experiment, the estimated size of the root system at 8 weeks after planting was not significantly different from the size at silking or harvest. Nitrogen fertilization significantly decreased the root:shoot weight ratio. However, tillage did not significantly change the ratio.
The effect of short-term exposure to low-iron diets on the mucosal processing of ionic iron

Short-term alterations in the amount of iron in the diets of rats caused substantial differences in the distribution of a test dose of radioiron between mucosal transferrin and mucosal ferritin, and also caused a change in the relative amounts of these two proteins in mucosal tissue without resulting in any detectable change in liver iron stores. These differences correlated with changes in the retention of radioiron by the intestinal mucosa and the transport of radioiron to the blood stream. These studies emphasize the importance of local changes in the intestinal mucosa in the regulation of dietary iron absorption.
Linear unmixing of hyperspectral images for analysis of fluorescently-labeled cellswith imperfect endmember spectra

Spectral unmixing is the method of the detecting and localizing subpixel features by estimating the relative concentrations of the reference spectra. For most applications, spectral unmixing methods should account for spectral reference ambiguity, and concentration estimates with non-negativity and sum-to-one constraints. In this paper, we propose total least squares (TLS) based methods for unmixing of hyperspectral images obtained via fluorescence microscopy. Here, we formulate the restricted TLS as a constrained quadratic optimization problem which can be solved efficiently. The performance of restricted TLS is compared to the existing least squares based methods via simulations.
The influence of electrocortical biofeedback on performance in pre-elite archers.

The purpose of the present research was to determine whether EEG biofeedback training could improve archery performance as well as self-reported measures of concentration and self-confidence. Experienced pre-elite male (N = 16) and female (N = 8) archers were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions: (a) correct feedback (i.e., greater left hemisphere low frequency activity), (b) incorrect feedback (i.e., greater right hemisphere low frequency activity), and (c) no feedback control. The pretest and posttest consisted of 27 shots, with EEG data collected for the left and right temporal hemispheres (T3, T4). Feedback subjects were then given EEG biofeedback, while control subjects rested for 30 min. Analyses indicated that only the performance measure was significant. The correct feedback group significantly improved performance, while the incorrect feedback group showed a significant performance decrement from pre- to posttest (Ps less than 0.05). The control group showed no significant pre-post differences in performance. EEG analyses showed differences that were consistent with the training given to the incorrect, but not the correct, feedback group. Overall, the results provide some support for the use of known relationships between EEG and performance as an effective means of providing biofeedback to affect the performance of pre-elite archers.
Buffer-facilitated proton transport. pH profile of bound enzymes.

Abstract 1. 1. In heterogeneous systems conjugate acid base pairs, besides their conventionally accepted static role as buffers, can also play a dynamic role in facilitating proton transport. When protons are generated and consumed at different locations, the conjugate base binds the proton at the “source” and the resulting acid diffuses to the “sink”. 2. 2. Both the buffering capacity of an acid base pair and its ability to facilitate proton transport are maximum when its p K A is close to the pH of the medium. The transport facilitating effect can be appreciable at much lower concentrations than those needed for buffering capacity. 3. 3. The effect of proton transport has been theoretically investigated by using a model consisting of a H+-producing enzymic surface reaction, which occur with bound enzymes both in vitro and in vivo. 4. 4. The enhancement of proton transport is quantitatively expressed by the extent of transport facilitation, ξ. The interplay of facilitated proton diffusion and reaction kinetics is quantified by the proton modulus, μ. 5. 5. At a given p K A the magnitude of transport facilitation increases with the acid-base concentration and the pH of the solution. The p K A value plays a dual role in determining both the concentration of available carriers and the affinity of the proton to the carrier. 6. 6. Due to its high proton affinity OH− can also facilitate proton transport already at pH 7, but in the presence of buffers its effect becomes significant only at higher pH values. 7. 7. When the extent of transport facilitation sharply increases with the pH of the substrate solution, at relatively low buffer concentrations bound enzymes display sigmoidal pH profiles with sharp peaks. Previously reported experimental data with membrane bound enzymes can be interpreted in view of these theoretical findings. 8. 8. It is postulated that buffers ubiquitous in biochemical and living systems can play an important role also by facilitating proton transport.
Studies in vitro on some precursors of 1-β-d-arabinosylcytosine

Abstract Several modifications of 1-β- d -arabinosylcytosine (ara-C) are described with particular regard to prolonging its presence in the tissues and lowering its toxicity. Precursors containing an isourea-ether or amidine group and a phosphate group were synthesized and studied in vitro. The most promising compound satisfying these criteria is O2:2'-anhydro-1-β- d -arabinosylcytosine 3'-phosphate (anhydro-ara-CMP). We have followed the disappearance of the anhydro-ara-C chromphore spectrophotometrically in phosphate, bicarbonate, citrate, lactate and Tris-HCl buffers of various concentration and pH. We found that the ultraviolet change was due to two concomitant firstorder reactions. The main process was a general-base catalyzed hydrolysis leading to the formation of 1-β- d -arabinosylcytosine 3'-phosphate (ara-CMP), but the formation of 2',3'-cyclic CMP was also observed to some extent. The rate constants and the arabino to ribo ratio depended on the ionic strength and the pH. In the course of studies of 14C-labeled compound in human blood in vitro, the presence of ara-C and its favorable rate of formation could be observed. It was concluded that the administration of a single dose of anhydro-ara-CMP will produce an effect similar to continuous infusion of decreasing amounts of ara-C.
Perisphincteric Cavernous Nerve Meshwork and its Importance in Radical Prostatectomy

IN this issue of The Journal Hinata et al (page 1052) This study also reinforces the concept of a more report an anatomical study performed to explain sizable differences in rates of erectile function return in aggressive prostate cancer cases in which the surgeon focus is on maximizing cancer control and not on nerve sparing. Some surgeons have managed to achieve moderate recovery of sexual function even in cases in which they have made no real attempt to save nerves and all the focus has been on maximizing cancer control. Due to the mentioned differences in sexual function recovery authors have wondered about the true anatomical and functional definition of the terms “nonnerve sparing” and “wide excision.” Is it possible that some erectile nerves were spared even when the surgeon was reasonably wide around the prostate? Or is it possible that at least in some cases there are alternate routes for the cavernous nerves which protect them from damage during wide excision around the prostate? These questions are answered by Hinata et al. They provide compelling data that there is anatomical redundancy in the neural pathways. A more distal perisphincteric cavernous nerve meshwork exists that is safely tucked away far from the prostatic apex.
Erratum to ``On the Atlantic inflow to the Caribbean Sea'' [Deep-Sea Research I 49 (2002) 211 243]

Erratum to ‘‘On the Atlantic inflow to the Caribbean Sea’’ [Deep-Sea Research I 49 (2002) 211–243] William E. Johns*, Tamara L. Townsend, David M. Fratantoni, W. Douglas Wilson Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, 4600 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, USA Naval Research Laboratory, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529, USA Department of Physical Oceanography, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA Physical Oceanography Division, NOAA/AOML, 4301 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, USA
Honeybee nestmate recognition: Effects of queen fecal pheromones.

Previous work has shown that queen honeybees,Apis mellifera, produce waxy esters composed of 8–14 carbon acids and 6–14 carbon alcohols in their feces. We tested these esters for effects on nestmate recognition; 11 of the 12 esters tested significantly modified the recognition characteristics of worker honeybees. Pairwise tests showed that workers can discriminate between at least some pairs of queen esters and that workers can discriminate between a queen ester and hexadecane (another known nestmate recognition cue). These results suggest that a queen may use the esters to enable workers to recognize her or to scent-mark her colony.
The Continuous Non-parametric Tolerance Limits

Tolerance limits form an interval within which at least a certain proportion of a population lies with a given confidence level. Usually, they are used to make sure that the production will not be outside of specifications. For non-normal populations, non-parametric tolerance limits are constructed at the beginning of the process. Being calculated just one time, these tolerance limits cannot reflect changes of tolerance level over the lifetime of the process. This article proposes a non-parametric method of constructing tolerance limits continuously over time. A simulation study is conducted to compare the average lengths and standard deviations of the tolerance intervals for both the snapshot and the continuously constructed non-parametric tolerance limits.
Evaluation of the reproductive and developmental toxicity of the AT1‐selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist Losartan in rats

Losartan, an AT1-selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist, was evaluated in female rats for effects on fertility, reproduction, and perinatal and postnatal development. In a range-finding study, pregnant rats were treated orally from gestation days 6-17 (GD 6-17) with doses of 25, 75, 150, 225, and 300 mg Losartan/kg/day. There were treatment-related decreases in maternal body weight gain, slight treatment-related decreases in hemoglobin concentration, and slight treatment-related increases in serum urea nitrogen in the 225 and 300 mg/kg/day groups. In a fertility study, female rats were treated for 15 days prior to mating, during mating, and GD 0-19 with doses of 25, 100, and 300 mg Losartan/kg/day. The initial dose of 300 mg/kg/day was lowered to 200 mg/kg/day at the start of mating due to excessive body weight loss during the premating treatment interval. There were no treatment-related effects on reproductive performance, mating, or fertility indices in the F0 generation. There was no evidence of treatment-related or dose-related fetal malformations. However, decreased F1 pup body weights were observed in all drug-treated groups. In the 100 and 300/200 mg/kg/day groups there were treatment-related increases in F1 pup mortality and alterations in the pattern of postweaning body weight gains. There was also a delay in developmental signs in the 100 and 300/200 mg/kg/day groups, which were likely secondary to the decreased weight of the pups in these groups. In a developmental toxicity study, pregnant rats were administered 50, 100, and 200 mg Losartan/kg/day on GD 6-17. There was no evidence of developmental toxicity in any dose group. Maternal toxicity was evident in the 200 mg/kg/day group as a treatment-related decrease in body weight gain during gestation. In a late-gestation/lactation study, pregnant rats were administered 10, 25, and 100 mg Losartan/kg/day on GD 15 through lactation day 20 (LD 20). There were treatment-related decreases in maternal body weight gain during gestation and lactation in the 100 mg/kg/day group. Decreased pup weights were noted in all dose groups, and pre- and postweaning pup deaths were observed in the high dose group which were comparable to those observed in the female fertility study. The lack of fetal body weight effects at 100 mg Losartan/kg/day in the developmental toxicity study, with treatment ending on GD 17, indicates that adverse effects observed in the F1 generation in the fertility and late-gestation/lactation studies were due to exposure during late gestation and/or lactation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Use of the internet and self-collected samples as a sexually transmissible infection intervention in rural Illinois communities

Background: In the USA, reported cases of chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis) continue to rise despite substantial funding for screening. National gonorrhoea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) rates have remained relatively stable, with clusters associated with metropolitan areas. Rural areas are no exception, as every county in Illinois reported cases of chlamydia in 2007. Morbidity associated with infection remains a public health concern, with costs of $US2.5+ billion annually. Novel screening interventions must be examined for their ability to reach those at risk who are missed by traditional methods. Methods: The website Iwantthekit.org was modified to allow residents from 25 contiguous counties in Central Illinois to request a self-collected sample kit. Returned kits were tested for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. The initial study period was 12 months. Results: During the study period, 343 kits were requested from 20 counties and 39.9% were satisfactorily returned for analysis. Positivity rates for chlamydia and gonorrhoea were 5.8% and 1.2%, respectively, for females and 1.9% and 0% for males. Males comprised 37.7% of all internet samples (compared with 23.4% for traditional screening venues) and 40.4% of all internet samples submitted by whites (compared with only 17.2% of traditional screening). Conclusions: The female positivity rate was comparable to those seen in other screening venues and the method successfully engaged at-risk males. Overall, participation was low and the costs associated with the program outweighed the averted costs associated with the few cases identified. While this methodology resulted in sample requests from a wide area, it must be utilised by more individuals to become cost-effective.
Expansion of the proper use of systemic fluoride supplements

Several methods are suggested to help practitioners prescribe appropriate dosages of fluoride supplements and avoid the unnecessary risks of fluorosis.
Superconducting fluctuations in the destructive regime of ultrathin, superconducting cylinders

Abstract We have carried out experiments on ultrathin superconducting cylinders, which revealed the existence of a destructive regime predicted to occur around half-integer flux quanta in doubly connected samples with diameters smaller than the zero-temperature superconducting coherence length. At half-integer flux quanta, the resistance showed a broad resistance drop as the temperature was lowered, followed by a temperature independent resistance at the lowest temperatures. We show that the temperature dependence of the conductance at half-integer flux quanta can be attributed to superconducting fluctuations.
Effects of fenretinide (4-HPR) on prostate LNCaP cell growth, apoptosis, and prostate-specific gene expression.

BACKGROUND. Although fenretinide (4-HPR) is currently being evaluated in a phase II clinical study for the chemoprevention of prostate cancer [Greenwald et al.: CA 45:31-49, 1995], the mechanism underlying its antineoplastic activity has not been elucidated. METHODS. Androgen-dependent human prostatic LNCaP cells cultured with fetal bovine serum (FBS) were treated with 4-HPR and evaluated for effects on cell growth and cell cycle phase distribution, induction of apoptosis, and changes in proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and androgen receptor (AR) levels. RESULTS. LNCaP cells treated with 4-HPR for 6 days showed 82-95% suppression of cell growth, with accompanying time- and dose-dependent downregulation of PCNA, a partial arrest in G 1 phase of the cell cycle, and a marked increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells. Apoptosis was demonstrated by the characteristic DNA fragmentation pattern seen on agarose gels, and by flow cytometric analysis. 4-HPR-induced prostate-specific phenotype changes included significant downregulated expression of both intracellular and secreted forms of PSA, which were preceded by a reduction of AR expression. CONCLUSIONS. These data suggest that 4-HPR acts as a pleiotropic effector of prostate cell growth and specific gene expression.
Analyzing Control Systems By Using Dynamic Optimization

Abstract Concepts on the measure of observability, reachability, and robustness are defined and illustrated for dynamical systems. Using computational dynamic optimization, these concepts are applicable to a wide spectrum of problems. Some questions addressed include the observability based on user-knowledge, the determination of strong observability vs. weak observability, partial observability of complex systems. In the second part, the definitions are extend to the computation of L 2 -gain and the measure of reachability in the presence of state constraints. Examples on dynamic systems defined by both ordinary and partial differential equations are shown.
Slow-wave directional coupler and its applications

The directional coupler and the traveling-wave directional filter made of coupled slow-wave microstrip lines are proposed and their characteristics discussed. These structures exhibit interesting characteristics not readily available in conventional transmission lines.
TRANSMUTATION OF NITROGEN BY PROTONS FROM 100 kev TO 135 kev

A portion of the excitation curve of the thermonuclear reaction N/sup 14/ (p, gamma )O/sup 15/ was measured using protons of 100 to 135 kev. The cross section of this reaction ranges from (8.5 plus or minus 3.7) x 10/sup -12/ b at 1OO kev to (1.4 plus or minus 0.3) x 1O/sup -10/ b at 135 kev. The approximate constant S/sub o/ is defined by S/sub o/ = E/sub sigma / exp rgy in the centerof- mass system and is measured in kev, sigma is in barns, A is the reduced mass of the interacting nuclei, and Z/sub p/ and Zn are the nuclear number of protons and nitrogen, respectively. Based upon these measurements, S/sub o/ = 2.7 plus or minus 0.2 kev-b. (auth)
The Use of the Isotopic Composition of Individual Compounds for Correlating Spilled Oils and Refined Products in the Environment with Suspected Sources

Correlation of crude oils, or refined products, in the environment with suspected sources is typically undertaken through the use of GC and GCMS and in certain cases bulk carbon isotope compositions. However, with crude condensates, or refined products in particular, the absence, or low concentration, of biomarkers precludes their successful use for making unique correlations. An alternative and, sometimes, complimentary technique for correlation of such products is evolving through the use of combined gas chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GCIRMS). This approach permits determination of the carbon and hydrogen isotopic composition of individual compounds in the crude oil or refined product to produce isotopic fingerprints for use in correlation studies. In this paper, it is proposed to review applications of GCIRMS to the correlation of various spilled products with their suspected sources in different environments. Whilst not proposing that this technique will replace GC or GCMS; it is prop...
The foundations of educational technology: A needs assessment

developments in the field (Pershing, Molenda, Paulus, Lee, & Hixon, 2000; Reiser et al., 1999). The educational technology program at Arizona State University (ASU) has offered a course called "Foundations of Educational Technology" since 1970. Our course has evolved over the past 30 years from a survey of the product development cycle to an examination of the accomplishments and issues in the field. Recently, we conducted a needs assessment to determine the optimal instructional content and delivery method for the course. The needs assessment also examined feelings about using the Internet to deliver the course. The needs assessment was prompted in part by the results of a focus group comprising students, graduates, and faculty of our educational technology program and employers who hire our graduates. The focus group indicated that "knowledge about the field" and "technical literacy" were among the essential skills and knowledge a student should possess upon graduation from our program. Another impetus for our needs assessment was the recent merger of the Educational Technology program and the Educational Media and Computers program at ASU and the desire to combine two courses about the field into one course. The purpose of our needs assessment was to answer the following questions: 9 What is the optimal instructional content for a foundations course in educational technology? 9 What is the optimal delivery method for a foundations course in educational technology? 9 What feelings do respondents have about the use of the Internet for a foundations course in educational technology?
Structural insights into the calcium-dependent interaction between calbindin-D28K and caspase-3

The regulation of apoptosis involves a complicated cascade requiring numerous protein interactions including the pro-apoptotic executioner protein caspase-3 and the anti-apoptotic calcium-binding protein calbindin-D28K. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, we show that calbindin-D28K binds caspase-3 in a Ca(2+)-dependent fashion. Molecular docking and conformational sampling studies of the Ca(2+)-loaded capase-3/calbindin-D28K interaction were performed in order to isolate potentially crucial intermolecular contacts. Residues in the active site loops of caspase-3 and EF-hands 1 and 2 of calbindin-D28K were shown to be critical to the interaction. Based on these studies, a model is proposed to help understand how calbindin-D28K may deactivate caspase-3 upon binding.
Don't you know me? Mutual recognition in a case of mistaken identity.

Contemporary relational theories in psychoanalysis recognize the fully two-person nature of the clinical process. Both patient and therapist bring to the encounter their internal worlds in equal measure, each exerting constant influence on the other, to create a highly complex relational field. From this perspective, clinical vignettes should provide the same level of description of the therapist’s as of the patient’s contributions to the treatment process. It is argued that the body of clinical relational literature, in general, has not kept up with its rich theoretical contributions. This case vignette and discussion, both in structure and content, is an in-depth illustration of the mutual construction of the clinical process. Clinical material is offered from an extended phase of analytic treatment during which the therapeutic relationship and so the patient’s possibilities for growth and change shifted from seeming stasis and impasse into new realms of experience of self and others. The author’s intent is to demonstrate with specificity the ways in which the experiential worlds of patient and therapist collide and influence each other to create the intersubjective field that is the locus of therapeutic action and analysis. The phase of work described in this paper was challenging and ultimately successful due both to the severe and pervasive nature of the patient’s struggles along with his underlying courage to persevere in the face of them, and to the ways in which the therapist’s life experiences and capacities inescapably contributed to the shape, limitations and possibilities of the therapeutic process.
Using Adaptive Leadership Principles in Collaborative Conservation with Stakeholders to Tackle a Wicked Problem: Imperiled Species Management in Florida

The changing sociopolitical environment for conservation obliges fish and wildlife agencies to learn to adapt to remain effective. Adaptive leadership principles appear promising as a tool to help ...