cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recognition of configurations of lines I: weak perspective case

In this paper we examine the problem of single-view recognition for sets of line features under generalized weak perspective projection. Our ultimate goal is to understand metrically the shape spaces for various labeled and unlabeled feature sets of lines and to represent those shapes using global shape coordinates. The later are "invariants" that provide an isometric embedding of the shape space in question (be it the object space or the image space) into an ambient Euclidean or projective space. The metrics involved are natural variants of the Procrustes metric of classical shape theory that is used in object recognition and image understanding tasks. In this first paper of what will be a series, we derive a fundamental set of equations that express the relationship between the 3D geometry of our lines and its "residual" in a 2D generalized weak perspective image. These equations are known as object/image relations. They completely and invariantly describe the mutual 3D/2D constraints, and can be exploited in a number of ways. For example, from a given 2D configuration of edges (lines) in an image, we can determine a set of nonlinear constraints on the geometric invariants of all 3D configurations capable of producing the given 2D configuration, and thus arrive at a test for determining the object being viewed. Conversely, given a 3D geometric configuration of lines (features on an object), we can derive a set of equations that constrain the invariants of the images of that object; helping us to determine if that particular object appears in various images.
Optimal classifiers within a Bayesian framework

In recent years, biomedicine has faced a flood of difficult small-sample phenotype discrimination problems. A host of classification rules have been proposed to discriminate types of pathology, stages of disease and other diagnoses. Typically, these classification rules are heuristic algorithms, with very little understood about their performance. To give a concrete mathematical structure to the problem, recent work has utilized a Bayesian modeling framework to both optimize and analyze error estimator performance. We propose to go a step further, using the same Bayesian framework to also optimize classifier design. This would complete a Bayesian theory of classification, where both the classifier error and our estimate of the error may be optimized and studied probabilistically within the assumed model. Optimal classifiers in a discrete model are provided, and we show that performance surpasses that of the popular discrete histogram classifier.
Failure of exogenous ACTH to influence the acquisition or reversal of a spatial discrimination in rats

Injections of ACTH, under conditions that had previously been shown to facilitate acquisition of a shuttle-avoidance response, had no effect on the acquisition or reversal of a spatial discrimination. The failure of ACTH to affect performance in an appetitive situation argues against interpretations that ACTH facilitates acquisition and prolongs extinction of avoidance behavior by improving the efficiency of biochemical processes underlying memory.
Deep-sea shrimps of the genus Pandalopsis (Decapoda: Caridea: Pandalidae) from the Pacific coast of eastern Hokkaido, Japan, with the description of two new species.

ABSTRACT The present paper reports the deep-sea pandalid shrimps of the genus Pandalopsis Bate collected from the Pacific coast of eastern Hokkaido, Japan, in 1987-1990. Five species including 1 new record from the western Pacific Ocean and 2 new species were identified and described: P. coccinata Urita, 1941; P. japonica Balss, 1914; P. longipes, new species; P. cf. longirostris Rathbun, 1902a; and P. rubra, new species. Problems on the systematics of the genus are noted. A key to the species of the genus, recognized to be valid at present, is provided.
High-resolution solution structure of the retinoid X receptor DNA-binding domain

Abstract The retinoid X receptor (RXR) is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of transcriptional regulators and plays a central role in the retinoid and, through its ability to heterodimerize with other nuclear hormone receptors, non-steroid signaling pathways. The DNA-binding and recognition functions of RXR are located in a conserved 83 amino acid residue domain that recognizes the consensus sequence AGGTCA. In order to provide a detailed picture of its structure, we have calculated a high-resolution solution structure of the C195A RXRα DNA-binding domain. Structures were calculated using 1131 distance and dihedral angle constraints derived from 1H, 13C and 15N NMR spectra. The structures reveal a perpendicularly packed, “loop-helix” fold similar to other nuclear hormone receptor DNA-binding domains and confirm the existence of the C-terminal helix, which was first observed in the low-resolution NMR structure. The C-terminal helix is well formed and is stabilized by packing interactions with residues in the hydrophobic core. The solution structure of RXR is very similar to that determined by X-ray crystallographic studies of the RXR-TR heterodimer complex with DNA, except that in the latter case no electron density was observed for residues corresponding to the C-terminal helix. Other differences between the X-ray and NMR structures occur in the second zinc-binding loop, which is disordered in solution. Heteronuclear 15N NOE measurements suggest that this loop has enhanced flexibility in the free protein.
Isolation of heterothallic yeast strains of Metschnikowia Kamienski and their mating reactions with Chlamydozyma Wickerham spp

Isolation ofMetschnikowia bicuspidata var.australis in the haplophase from Antarctic waters, andM. bicuspidata var.zobellii in haplo-and diplophases at Chatham Is. N.Z., led to the study of mating reactions within theChlamydozyma - Metschnikowia complex. The results indicate the phylogenetic relationships between species. The plant-associatedCh. pulcherrima. Ch. reukaufii, andM. zygota are distinct species; when cross-mated they will conjugate but not produce asci. These three species are closely related toM. bicuspidata; when they are mated withM. bicuspidata and its varieties (var.australis and var.zobellii) asci are produced without spores. The taxonomic status ofM. bicuspidata and its varieties is based on less frequent formation of ascospores between than within taxa.
A Community Diabetes Education and Gardening Project to Improve Diabetes Care in a Northwest American Indian Tribe

PURPOSEThe purpose of this study was to design a culturally appropriate education program for a Northwest American Indian tribe.METHODSNeeds assessment revealed that a community approach rather than clinic-based education would address multiple barriers to diabetes care. Both process and outcome information are described for community and individual level evaluations.RESULTSThis intervention design consisted of community diabetes workshops called "How Healthy Am I?--Treating the Whole Person." The workshops represented a traditional view of health and included 4 specific themes: (1) taking care of the body, with an emphasis on diabetes care and physical activity; (2) mental health needs; (3) foods for healthy living; and (4) spirituality and healing the whole person. Workshops were designed to be social and informational, and involve all community members. A community garden was established to improve access to fresh produce and encourage exercise.CONCLUSIONSPrior to implementation of the community worksh...
RNA stability: is it the endo' the world as we know it?

Endonucleases have generally not been considered among the major factors in well-studied mRNA-decay and quality-control pathways in mammals and yeast. However, two important players in these pathways, the exosome and SMG6, have now been shown to contain functionally significant endonucleolytic activities.
Target dependence of hypoglossal motor neurons during development and in maturity

We have investigated the target dependence of hypoglossal motor neurons in postnatal rats by transecting the hypoglossal nerve and preventing reinnervation of the tongue. After transection in early postnatal life, approximately 60% of hypoglossal motor neurons die and surviving neurons are markedly atrophic compared to contralateral controls. In maturity, there is also substantial neuronal atrophy and about 30% of motor neurons appear to die after the procedure. However, most hypoglossal neurons in adults survive transection for periods up to 1 year. The adult response is present by 3 weeks of age. The time course of neuronal atrophy and death after permanent target deprivation was investigated in adult animals. One month after the hypoglossal nerve was deflected, there was marked axonal atrophy, although somatic atrophy was minimal. By 3 months after the procedure substantial neuronal atrophy and apparent cell loss (about 30%) had occurred. There was little change between 3 and 6 months. We conclude that hypoglossal motor neurons are influenced by connections with their targets in postnatal life. Even in maturity, neurons require target connections for maintenance of axonal and somatic morphology. However, the majority of motor neurons in adult animals can survive target deprivation for prolonged periods.
Dynamic Programming-based Search Algorithms in NLP

Dynamic Programming (DP) is an important class of algorithms widely used in many areas of speech and language processing. It provides efficient solutions to seemingly intractable inference over exponentially-large spaces by sharing overlapping subproblems. Well-known examples of DP in our field include Viterbi and Forward-Backward Algorithms for finite-state models, CKY and Earley Algorithms for context-free parsing, and A* Algorithm for both. These algorithms are widely used to solve problems ranging from sequence labeling to word alignment to machine translation decoding.
Sequence analysis of ultraviolet-induced mutations in M13lacZ hybrid phage DNA.

We have studied the specificity of ultraviolet (u.v.) mutagenesis in single-stranded DNA phage by analyzing u.v.-induced forward mutations in the lac insert of M13mp2 hybrid phage. Sequence analysis of 114 lac mutants derived from u.v.-irradiated phage grown in u.v.-irradiated cells showed that ultraviolet induces mainly single-nucleotide substitutions and deletions in progeny phage DNA. A total of 74% of the single-base substitution mutations occurred at sites of adjacent pyrimidines in the single-stranded DNA, with both T → C and C → T transitions predominating in the u.v. spectrum. Single-nucleotide deletion mutations occurred preferentially in tracts of repeated pyrimidine nucleotides. Tandem, double-base substitutions did not represent a major class of u.v.-induced mutations, but nearly 10% of mutant clones contained multiple, non-tandem nucleotide changes.
The Fatality Analysis Reporting System as a tool for investigating racial and ethnic determinants of motor vehicle crash fatalities

The Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) is a Department of Transportation database in the public domain that contains detailed information about fatalities resulting from motor vehicle crashes on public roadways in the United States since 1975. However, data on race and Hispanic ethnicity were not collected by FARS until 1999. Since then, completeness of reported racial and ethnic information has varied from State to State. To assess utility of FARS for investigating race- and ethnicity-specific risk factors associated with motor vehicle crash mortality, we examined yearly national and State-specific reporting rates of race and Hispanic ethnicity for 168,863 motor vehicle crash fatalities from 1999 to 2002. In 1999, national reporting was 85% for race and 78% for Hispanic ethnicity. Over the 4-year study period, a significant linear increase in annual reporting for both race and Hispanic ethnicity was evident at the national level, as reporting by individual States improved over time. In 2002, national reporting rates reached 90% for race and 88% for Hispanic ethnicity. Our findings indicate that FARS has become a valuable resource for population-based studies of motor vehicle crash mortality disparities that exist among racial and ethnic subpopulations in the United States.
Ethnic Differences in the Dynamics of Depressive Symptoms in Middle Aged and Older Americans

Objective: This study examined differences in the trajectory of depressive symptoms between Hispanic, Black, and White Americans in middle and old age. Method: Data came from a national sample of Americans with up to 6 repeated assessments spanning 11 years. Hierarchical linear models with time-varying covariates were used. Results: Hispanics started with the worst depressive symptomatology, followed by Black Americans, whereas White Americans had the fewest symptoms. These differences, however, diminished over time. More importantly, net of socioeconomic and health differentials, the depressive symptoms trajectory did not differ between Blacks and Whites, whereas Hispanics still started with worse symptoms and had a greater rate of reduction in symptomatology compared to Whites. Discussion: Significant ethnic differences exist in both the intercept and rate of change in depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older Americans. These variations are substantially confounded by socioeconomic and health differentials.
The Effect of Statin Medications on Perioperative and Long-Term Outcomes Following Carotid Endarterectomy or Stenting

Statins belong to a class of drugs known to inhibit 3-hydroxy 3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, and block hepatic cholesterol synthesis. Since the initial statin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1987, these agents quickly became the gold standard for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Effective lipid-lowering has been found to improve the long-term prognosis of patients with coronary artery disease. In addition, statins have also been found to be highly effective in primary and secondary stroke prevention among medically managed patients with cardiovascular disease, and it appears that this benefit is largely due to the non–cholesterol-lowering, so-called pleiotropic, effects of statins. During the past decade, agents such as β-blockers, aspirin, or other antiplatelet medications have proven to reduce the incidence of adverse postoperative outcomes among vascular surgical patients, and have rightfully assumed a place in our overall therapeutic armamentarium. There is growing evidence that statins may be especially effective in reducing cardiovascular morbidity and improving outcomes after major vascular surgery. A recent study from Johns Hopkins Hospital demonstrated a threefold reduction in the rate of perioperative stroke ( P P
A model for radial yield degradation as a function of chip size

Yield data was collected from a total of 928 200-mm silicon wafers which were processed using a 1 /spl mu/m CMOS technology. Each wafer was patterned with one of four chips varying in area from 17 mm/sup 2/ to 132 mm/sup 2/. Wafers with like chips were binned together into a single grand composite wafer for each of the four chip sizes. The yield was subsequently plotted as a function of radius, and a mathematical expression was empirically fitted to the radial yield plots. The coefficients from each of the fitted expressions were then used to form a generalized expression for radial yield degradation as a function of chip size. The method of normalization, and the algorithm used to generate the radial yield plots are discussed. An explanation of the data is offered based on geometrical considerations. The radial yield dependence is then incorporated into more traditional yield models.
Ultrasonographic detection of abnormal fetal growth with the gestational age-independent, transverse cerebellar diameter/abdominal circumference ratio

Objectives: We prospectively evaluated the accuracy of a gestational, age-independent method of detecting abnormal growth, the transverse cerebellar diameter/abdominal circumference ratio, and compared this with standard ultrasonographic methods of growth assessment. Study Design: We prospectively studied 825 low-risk obstetric patients and 250 patients having risk factors for fetal macrosomia ( n = 92) or growth retardation ( n = 158). Measured fetal parameters included the biparietal diameter, head circumference, transverse cerebellar diameter, abdominal circumference, and femur length. The estimated fetal weight, head circumference/abdominal circumference, cerebellar diameter/abdominal circumference, and femur length/abdominal circumference ratios were calculated. Reference curves for these parameters were created from a cross-sectional analysis of the low-risk group. Univariate analysis was used to determine the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and odds ratios of each individual parameter in identifying a small- or large-for-gestational-age infant. A multivariate logistic regression model with a variable selection procedure was then used to determine whether significance remained when we controlled for other parameters. Results: Within the low-risk group, the transverse cerebellar/abdominal circumference ratio was gestational age independent between 14 and 42 weeks with a mean of 13.68 ± 0.96. A value exceeding 2 SD of the mean was significantly associated with birth or a small-for-gestational-age infant, being abnormal in 98% and 71 % of asymmetrically and symmetrically growth-retarded infants, respectively. Significance was maintained in the multivariate regression model. The ratio was not helpful in detecting the large-for-gestational-age infant. Conclusion: The fetal transverse cerebellar diameter/abdominal circumference ratio is an accurate, gestational age-independent method of identifying the small-for-gestational-age but not the large-for-gestational-age infant.
OXYGEN K-EDGE ABSORPTION SPECTRA OF SMALL MOLECULES IN THE GAS PHASE

The absorption spectra of O/sub 2/, CO, CO/sub 2/ and OCS have been recorded in a transmission mode in the energy region from 500 to 950 eV. Recent observation of EXAFS in these molecules is confirmed in this study. 7 refs., 3 figs.
Analysis of partial volume effects in diffusion‐tensor MRI

The diffusion tensor is currently the accepted model of diffusion in biological tissues. The measured diffusion behavior may be more complex when two or more distinct tissues with different diffusion tensors occupy the same voxel. In this study, a partial volume model of MRI signal behavior for two diffusion-tensor compartments is presented. Simulations using this model demonstrate that the conventional single diffusion tensor model could lead to highly variable and inaccurate measurements of diffusion behavior. The differences between the single and two-tensor models depend on the orientations, fractions, and exchange between the two diffusion tensor compartments, as well as the diffusion-tensor encoding technique and diffusion-weighting that is used in the measurements. The current single compartment model's inaccuracies could cause diffusion-based characterization of cerebral ischemia and white matter connectivity to be incorrect. A diffusion-tensor MRI imaging experiment on a normal human brain revealed significant partial volume effects between oblique white matter regions when using very large voxels and large diffusion-weighting (b ∼ 2.69 × 103 sec/mm2). However, the apparent partial volume effects in white matter decreased significantly when smaller voxel dimensions were used. For diffusion tensor studies obtained using typical diffusion-weighting values (b ∼ 1 × 103 sec/mm2) partial volume effects are much more difficult to detect and resolve. More accurate measurements of multiple diffusion compartments may lead to improved confidence in diffusion measurements for clinical applications. Magn Reson Med 45:770–780, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Syntheses and characterization of the oxidized phthalocyanine compounds [Ni(pc)]3[ReO4]2·C10H7Cl, [Cu(pc)]3[SbF6]2·C10H7Cl, [Cu(pc)]3[AsF6]2·C10H7Cl, [H2(pc)]3[SbF6]2·C10H7Cl, [Ni(pc)]3[SbF6]2·C10H7Cl, and [H2(pc)]3[AsF6]2·C10H7Cl

Abstract A series of partially-oxidized phthalocyanine (pc) compounds ([Ni(pc)] 3 [ReO 4 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl, [Cu(pc)] 3 [SbF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl, [Cu(pc)] 3 [AsF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl, [H 2 (pc)] 3 [SbF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl, and [Ni(pc)] 3 [SbF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl) were synthesized galvanostatically. Their structures were determined by means of conventional crystallographic methods. An improved structure of [H 2 (pc)] 3 [AsF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl was determined from synchrotron data. The isostructural extended structures of these compounds comprise stacked trimers of M(pc) rings with anions and disordered solvents in parallel channels. Conductivity data for [Cu(pc)] 3 [SbF 6 ] 2 ·C 10 H 7 Cl indicate that it is a semiconductor ( E A =0.22 eV).
Cyclooxygenase 1 is not essential for hypophagic responses to interleukin-1 and endotoxin in mice

Numerous studies have shown that the effects of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and endotoxin (LPS) on behavior are sensitive to cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. However, neither the location of the COX involved nor the specific isoform, COX1 or COX2, is known. A previous study using selective COX1 and COX2 inhibitors did not provide an unequivocal answer. Therefore, we tested the response of sweetened milk ingestion to IL-1 and LPS in mice in which the COX1 or the COX2 gene was deleted (COX1ko and COX2ko). When IL-1beta was administered 90 min before the milk, COX1ko mice showed responses similar to those of normal mice. In contrast, COX2ko mice exhibited responses considerably less than normal, with some mice showing no response. Indomethacin pretreatment almost prevented the feeding responses to IL-1 in normal and COX1ko mice. The milk intake response to LPS in COX1ko mice was like that of normal mice. The results from COX1ko mice suggest that COX1 is not necessary for the decreased milk intake following IL-1 and LPS. The results from COX2ko mice are consistent with the involvement of COX2 in the IL-1-induced depression of milk intake, but other mechanisms may effect decreases in sweetened milk intake.
Cholinergic transmission by embryonic retinal neurons in culture: Inhibition by dopamine

The function of neurotransmitters in ontogeny remains unclear, although it is well known that both pre- and postsynaptic components of certain neurotransmitter systems are present from early in morphogenesis. The objective of this study was to establish a culture system that would permit an analysis of the physiological effects of dopamine on immature neurons. Specifically, dopamine-mediated effects on synaptic transmission by cholinergic neurons of the embryonic chick retina were explored. To do this, a retina-muscle culture system was used. In previous physiological studies, striated muscle cells in culture have proved useful as postsynaptic targets for cholinergic neurons of the immature retina. It is reported here that dopamine can inhibit synaptic responses of cultured muscle cells that are innervated by neurons of the embryonic chick retina. This inhibitory effect is blocked reversibly by the dopamine antagonists, haloperidol and fluphenazine. With the culture system used in this developmental study, dopamine-mediated inhibition can be examined with either explants of retina or with dissociated retinal neurons. When a low density of dissociated cells is plated, it is possible to examine relatively isolated, visually identified, presynaptic, cholinergic neurons. The results show that an inhibitory response to dopamine is expressed by neurons derived from retinas which are at an early stage of ontogeny. The finding that inhibition by dopamine could be demonstrated to develop at 90% of the retina-muscle synapses indicates that the cholinergic neurons studied in this experimental system are a relatively homogenous population with respect to their responsiveness to dopamine.
A Novel Strategy Using G-CSF to Support EMA/CO for High-Risk Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

EMA/CO (etoposide-methotrexate-actinomycin D and Cytoxan-Oncovin) is an effective and well-tolerated chemotherapy regimen for the treatment of high-risk gestational trophoblastic disease. However, it is associated with significant neutropenia often requiring dose reductions and treatment delays. We describe the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in three patients in order to maintain the treatment schedule. A subcutaneous injection of 5 micrograms/kg/day was administered on Days 3-6 and 9-14 of each chemotherapy cycle. No patients had any adverse effects and all received full chemotherapy doses without any treatment delay. The addition of G-CSF to the EMA/CO regimen may benefit patients by achieving dose intensity in the treatment of high-risk gestational trophoblastic disease.
Flow cytometric lifetime-based cell viability assay using propidium iodide

Assays which discriminate and enumerate dying or dead cells are important in various types of cellular studies. In many instances, there is a need to identify dead cells that interfere with fluorescent probes which are used to measure functional and physiological properties in viable cells. For example, dead cells can introduce analytical errors arising from (1) nonspecific uptake of fluorescent probes, leading to erroneous percentages of positive labeled cells, (2) increased autofluorescence, and (3) altered antigen expression. The ability to detect dead cells is also of importance in determining the effectiveness of cytotoxic agents. Propidium iodide (PPI) exclusion, which is analogous to the non- fluorescent trypan blue dye test for viability, is used extensively in flow cytometry assays. However, the use of PI can potentially limit the application of additional fluorescent probes due to spectral overlap of the probe with PI. In this report we present phase-resolved fluorescence studies on rat and murine thymus cells labeled with phycoerythrin-antiThy 1.1 and phycoerythrin/Texas Red-antiThy 1.2 immunofluorescence markers, respectively, and PI. Overlapping emission spectra are resolved based on differences in fluorescence lifetimes of the probes and PI. These studies demonstrate a new lifetime-based viability method for use in analysis of immunofluorescent probes and for assaying the dynamics of cell killing.
Oxidation of Organometallic Platinum and Palladium Complexes Obtained from C−H Activation

η^3-Cyclohexenyl and -indenyl Pt(II) and Pd(II) diimine complexes, which are generated via C−H activation of cyclohexene and indene by Pt and Pd hydroxy dimers, are selectively oxidized by Br_2, Na_2PtCl_6, and CuCl_2 to give halogenated organic products along with well-defined Pd(II) and Pt(II) species.
Direct hydrocracking of oxidized bio-oil to hydrocarbons

Abstract Hydrodeoxygenation is considered a promising technology to convert bio-oils to liquid transportation fuels. Recently we tested a hydrodeoxygenation method to convert oxidized bio-oil to increase liquid fuel yield, reduce char and reduce required hydrogen. In this current study we tested direct hydrocracking of the oxidized bio-oil to produce high-energy liquid hydrocarbons. We tested various reaction conditions (reaction temperature, hydrogen pressure, time and catalyst type) on the hydrocracking of the oxidized bio-oil. Direct hydrocracking of the oxidized bio-oil produced 36.6% higher hydrocarbons yield compared to direct hydrocracking of the raw bio-oil. The hydrocarbons mixture produced had a higher heating value (HHV) of 43.6 MJ/kg. The oxygen content and acid value were 0.5 wt% and 0.3 mg KOH/g, respectively. Density and viscosity were considerably low at 0.9 g/ml and 1.8 cSt, respectively. pH value was 8.4. The hydrocarbon mixture was also analyzed by GC–MS, FTIR, NMR and DHA.
Effect of phenobarbital on lipid peroxidation in the liver.

Abstract It has been established that the administration of phenobarbital to rats produces an accumulation of triglyceride in the liver. In the present study, it has been demonstrated that phenobarbital increases hepatic lipid peroxidation as reflected by the observed diene conjugation absorption of microsomal lipids as well as the increase in malonic dialdehyde formation. Both the fatty infiltration and the lipoperoxidation were found to be inhibited by an antioxidant. N, N′-diphenyl-p-phenylenediamine. These data suggest that the peroxidative process may play a role in the phenobarbital-induced fatty liver.
Rheological characterization of biocompatible associative polymer hydrogels with crystalline and amorphous endblocks

Control over mechanical properties of hydrogels is of primary importance for the use of these materials in drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. We demonstrate here that crystallinity and block length of poly(lactide) (PLA) can be used to tune the elastic modulus of associative network gels of poly(lactide)–poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(lactide) over several orders of magnitude. Polymers made with crystalline L lactic acid blocks formed very stiff hydrogels at 25 wt% concentration with an elastic modulus that was almost an order of magnitude higher than hydrogels of polymers with a similar molecular weight but containing amorphous D/L-lactic acid blocks. The relaxation behavior and crosslink density of gels are also significantly influenced by crystallinity of PLA and are again a function of PLA block length. Using these variables we can design new tailor-made materials for biomedical applications with precise control over their structure and mechanical properties.
Cell and coelomic fluid volume regulation in the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris

Abstract 1. 1. The earthworm Lumbricus terrestris is capable of volume regulation in dilute media. 2. 2. Total body water content remains constant over a wide range of salinities, but a greater percentage of body water is extracellular in more dilute media. 3. 3. Worms in dilute media have lower integumental water exchange, which reduces osmotic influx of water. 4. 4. Free amino acids in the coelomic fluid increase in both hypotonic and hypertonic media, providing a source of solutes for volume regulation. 5. 5. Intracellular free amino acids vary as a function of salinity, suggesting iso-osmotic cell volume regulation.
Behind the scenes during a comet encounter

The contributions of NSSDC and SPAN to the September 11, 1985 ICE-Comet Giacobini-Zinner encounter are outlined. The NSSDC is a centralized archive and distribution center for data obtained from NASA space and earth science flight investigations while SPAN is a mission-independent computer-to-computer network used to gain electronic access to NASA facilities, coinvestigators, and data for many scientists. The ICE encounter revealed the value of SPAN and NSSDC in providing rapid access to important science data.
The 2014 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guideline for the management of patients with valvular heart disease: a changing landscape.

The American Heart Association (AHA) and American College of Cardiology (ACC) have updated the practice guidelines for the treatment of patients with valvular heart disease (VHD). The writing committee and task force members were experts in all aspects of valvular disease and included representatives from the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, American Society of Echocardiography, and surgical representatives from The American Association for Thoracic Surgery and Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS). Importantly, the writing committee members were free of industry affiliations. The original AHA/ACC VHD guidelines were released in 1998, revised in 2006, and updated in 2008. The recent growth in therapeutic options for VHD requires the incorporation of evolving techniques and current evidence to determine best practice. With the expansion of transcatheter and minimally invasive valve surgery, the question is not simply should we intervene, but how and when. To outline concomitant nonsurgical therapeutic advances, the Task Force coined the phrase guideline-directed medical therapy ‘‘to represent optimal medical therapy as defined by [the] ACC/AHA guideline (primarily class I)–recommended therapies.’’ Thus, the current guidelines reflect updates in medical and surgical advances, with new sections summarizing the role of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and transcatheter approaches for the mitral valve. Evolving approaches for aortic aneurysms and valve type choices are also discussed. For severe aortic stenosis, surgical AVR remains a class I, level of evidence A, recommendation for low or intermediate surgical risk candidates meeting the criteria for valve replacement. Drawing from several large, multiinstitutional, randomized controlled trials, the guidelines state that ‘‘TAVR is recommended in patients who meet an indication for AVR who have a prohibitive risk for
Corticosterone Secretion in Response to Capture and Handling in Free-Living Red-Eared Slider Turtles ☆

The corticosterone response to capture and handling was measured in free-living red-eared slider turtles,Trachemys scripta elegans.To determine the ability of this species to exhibit this endocrine response, slider turtles were bled at the time of removal from hoop nets and again at 30 and 60 min following capture to create plasma profiles of acute corticosterone secretion from individuals. Plasma corticosterone concentration increased significantly with handling time. The greatest rise in corticosterone was within the first 30 min following capture and handling, with this rate of increase declining over the next 30 min of restraint. There was no correlation between corticosterone levels at the time of capture and the length of time it took to get the sample if the sample was taken within the first 10 min after capture. However, when these samples were included with those taken from other turtles sampled 11 to 25 min after capture, hormone levels were significantly correlated with handling time. This suggests that the critical time to obtain an initial sample that best represents the predisturbance level in slider turtles is within 10 min. There was no correlation between the turtles' energetic condition and initial corticosterone concentrations. Plasma corticosterone values at all sampling times were comparable to those observed in other reptile species. The results from this study may be used to investigate the effects of unpredictable resources on reproductive success and survival in freshwater turtles.
Change in physicomechanical properties of certain constructional polyamides in natural aging

The life and reliability of polymer material parts are determinedto a large degree by their resistance to the action of atmospheric conditions. A study of the kinetics of natural aging of polymers in different climate zones and determination of the factors having the most negative influence on their service properties make it possible to scientifically establish the service and storage lives of polymer material parts.
In Utero Electroporation as a Tool For Genetic Manipulation In Vivo to Study Psychiatric Disorders From Genes to Circuits and Behaviors

Many genetic risk factors for major mental disorders have key roles in brain development. Thus, exploring the roles for these genetic factors for brain development at the molecular, cellular, and neuronal circuit level is crucial for discovering how genetic disturbances affect high brain functions, which ultimately lead to disease pathologies. However, it is a tremendously difficult task, given that most mental disorders have genetic complexities in which many genetic risk factors have multiple roles in different cell types and brain regions over a time-course dependent manner. Furthermore, some genetic risk factors are likely to act epistatically in common molecular pathways. For this reason, a technique for spatial and temporal manipulation of multiple genes is necessary for understanding how genetic disturbances contribute to disease etiology. Here, the authors will review the said technique, in utero electroporation, which investigates the molecular disease pathways in rodent models for major mental disorders. This technique is also useful to examine the effect of genetic risks at the behavioral level. Furthermore, the authors will discuss the recent progress of this technology, such as inducible and cell type-specific targeting, as well as nonepisomal genetic manipulation, which provide further availability of this technique for research on major mental disorders.
Isolated del(5q) in myeloid malignancies: Clinicopathologic and molecular features in 143 consecutive patients

World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were used to identify 143 consecutive patients (median age 73 years; 90 females) with myeloid neoplasms and isolated del(5q) seen between 1989 and 2009. We have previously reported on 88 (61%) of these patients who met criteria for WHO defined "myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with isolated del(5q)." The remaining 55 patients were classified as having "other" MDS variants (n = 29; 20%), acute myeloid leukemia (AML; n = 14; 10%), or myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN; n = 12; 8%). DNA was available in 138 patients and mutation screening revealed 20 cases with JAK2, 6 with IDH, and 3 with MPL mutations; JAK2 and MPL mutations were seen mostly in MPN or "MDS with isolated del(5q)" whereas IDH mutations were frequent in other MDS variants. Overall median survival for the 143 patient cohort was 35 months and leukemic transformation (LT) was documented in 19 (~13%) cases. "MDS with isolated del(5q)" had the best prognosis with median survival of 66 months and LT rate of ~6%. Survival was poor among the other myeloid neoplasm subgroups regardless of specific morphologic diagnosis. Multivariable analysis identified higher leukocyte count and percentage of bone marrow and circulating blasts as independent predictors of shortened survival. The first two parameters and the presence of IDH mutations predicted inferior leukemia-free survival. The current study validates the prognostic relevance of considering "MDS with isolated del(5q)" as a separate WHO subcategory and identifies leukocytosis, higher blast count, and IDH mutations as being prognostically detrimental, in myeloid neoplasms associated with isolated del(5q).
The 3′ end of the heavy chain constant region locus enhances germline transcription and switch recombination of the four γ genes

The switch in immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chain class is preceded by germline transcription and then mediated by a DNA recombination event. To study germline transcription and class switch recombination we used transgenic mice with a 230-kilobase bacterial artificial chromosome that included a rearranged VDJ gene and the entire heavy chain constant region locus. In addition to several lines with intact transgenes, we identified two lines in which the heavy chain locus transgene lacked Calpha and everything 3' of it, including the regulatory elements HS3a, HS1-2, HS3b, and HS4. B cells from both lines with the truncated transgenes make abundant transgenic (Tg) VDJCmu transcripts and IgM protein. Deletion of the 3' end of the locus results in dramatically reduced expression of both germline transcripts and switched VDJCH transcripts of the gamma3, gamma2b, gamma2a, and epsilon genes. In addition, the transgenes lacking the 3' end of the locus express reduced amounts of gamma1 germline transcripts and 2-3% of the amount of Tg IgG1 in tissue culture compared with intact transgenes. Finally, switch recombination to gamma1 is undetectable in the transgenes lacking the 3' elements, as measured by digestion circularization-polymerase chain reaction or by the expression of VDJCgamma1 transcripts.
A logical state model of circus movement atrial flutter. Role of anatomic obstacles, anisotropic conduction and slow conduction zones on induction, sustenance, and overdrive paced modulation of reentrant circuits

Because the relative roles of anatomical obstacles, in combination with functional barriers, anisotropic conduction, and slow conduction can not be readily assessed with current electrophysiological techniques, an atrial activation model was developed to study the mechanisms of circus movement atrial flutter. A discrete state model consisting of 4,096 logically connected cardiac elements was used to simulate atrial activation; an inexcitable region simulating the inferior vena cava (IVC) was also incorporated in the model. Atrial flutter was induced by programmed premature stimulation, Anisotropic conduction velocity properties, regional variations in slow conduction, regional refractory gradients and stimulation parameters were specified for each simulation. The reentrant circuit generally consisted of a single reentrant impulse which circulated around a continuous line of functional bidirectional conduction block joined to the IVC. Rapid pacing, 5-30 ms shorter than the spontaneous reentrant cycle length, was applied to entrain and/or terminate the rhythm. The results of this study demonstrate that patterns of initiation, entrainment, termination and reinitiation of circus movement atrial flutter mimic results from in vivo activation mapping studies. The authors find that sustained circus movement atrial flutter circuits depend on: 1) natural anatomical obstacles to stabilize reentrant circuits, and 2) anisotropic conduction properties to reduce the degree of functional conduction block needed to maintain circus movement. Rapid pacing of simulated circus movement atrial flutter demonstrated that the entrainment criteria can be satisfied in a two-dimensional syncytium. >
Long-Lived Consumers, Intertemporal Bundling, and Tacit Collusion

In a repeated price game with long but finitely-lived consumers, the use of staggered long-term contracts enables firms to earn positive profits for a wider range of discount factors and market structures. Intertemporal bundling reduces the gains from business- stealing while leaving the cost of the resulting price war unchanged. Though less empirically relevant, we also show that in a repeated price game with infinitely-lived, and arbitrarily-small, consumers, firms can use menus of single-period and infinite- length contracts to earn strictly positive profits for any discount factor and any market structure.
Comparing models of Red Knot population dynamics

ABSTRACT Predictive population modeling contributes to our basic scientific understanding of population dynamics, but can also inform management decisions by evaluating alternative actions in virtual environments. Quantitative models mathematically reflect scientific hypotheses about how a system functions. In Delaware Bay, mid-Atlantic Coast, USA, to more effectively manage horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) harvests and protect Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) populations, models are used to compare harvest actions and predict the impacts on crab and knot populations. Management has been chiefly driven by the core hypothesis that horseshoe crab egg abundance governs the survival and reproduction of migrating Red Knots that stopover in the Bay during spring migration. However, recently, hypotheses proposing that knot dynamics are governed by cyclical lemming dynamics garnered some support in data analyses. In this paper, I present alternative models of Red Knot population dynamics to reflect alternative...
Choisir de choisir — croire en ce monde

In the philosophy of Pascal and Kierkegaard and the cinema of Bresson and Dreyer, Deleuze finds “a strange thought,” an “extreme moralism that opposes the moral,” and a “faith that opposes religion.” This thought may be described as an immanent ethics of “choosing to choose,” such that one may thereby “believe in this world.” Pascal’s wager and Kierkegaard’s leap of faith are usually treated as exclusively theological concepts, but Deleuze—by way of a Nietzschean adaptation of Pascal and Kierkegaard—sees these concepts as a means of understanding a specific mode of existence, in which one “chooses to choose,” and thereby commits oneself to the perpetual responsibility of choosing. In the work of Dreyer and Bresson, Deleuze discovers a cinematic counterpart of this philosophy of “choosing to choose,” a cinema in which apparently religious concerns actually manifest an immanent ethics of modes of existence. This cinema highlights the fundamental vocation of modern cinema, which is to make possible a “belief in this world.” The problem facing modern directors is that the world seems nothing but a bad film, a collection of predictable and empty cliches devoid of any possibility of genuine creativity. Modern cinema’s answer to this challenge is to disrupt conventional ways of seeing and disclose already present alternatives to those conventions, such that new possibilities of existence are suggested. In this way, modern cinema allows a revived “belief in this world.” No longer a world of cliches, the world as transformed through modern cinema is one in which new modes of existence are envisioned, modes based on an ethics of perpetually “choosing to choose.” This cinematic ethics finally provides a means of understanding the proper relationship between cinema and philosophy, both of which have a common purpose, even if they have separate spheres of activity.
Clinical Spectrum of Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in Adults and Children

This report describes the clinical spectrum of disease among a series of pediatric and adult patients with symptoms of gastroenteritis that subsequently tested positive for Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in their stool. All diarrheal stools (n = 1712) between July 2005 and November 2006 were tested with Premier EHEC (Meridian Bioscience, Cincinnati, OH). A total of 1.6% patients (27/1712) tested positive and 41% of patients had non-0157 E. coli, which can cause moderate disease requiring hospitalization. Cases of non-0157 E. coli would have been missed without testing for Shiga toxin. All bloody stools, and perhaps all stools, should be tested for Shiga toxin.
School Characteristics Inventory: Investigation of a Quantitative Instrument for Measuring the Modifiability of School Contexts for Implementation of Educational Innovations

The purpose of this study was to collect reliability and validity data on the School Characteristics Inventory (SCI), a quantitative measure based on Sternberg’s (2000) theory of contextual modifiability. Data were collected from a national sample of middle school teachers and from teachers participating in a 3-year study investigating teachers’ willingness to implement differentiated instruction or differentiated authentic assessments. Factor analysis indicated 6 factors (School Reputation, General School State, Staff Attitudes, Responsiveness to Change, General Perceptions of the School, and Administration Responsiveness), accounting for 42% of the variance. Reliability estimates of the factors ranged from a low of .76 (Responsiveness to Change) to a high of .94 (School Reputation and SCI Total Scale Score). Quantitative and qualitative data give credence to the reliability and validity of the SCI and tentatively support the organizational modifiability construct theorized by Sternberg.