cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adverse pregnancy outcomes among women with prior spontaneous or induced abortions.

Objective The aim of the article is to determine whether prior spontaneous abortion (SAB) or induced abortion (IAB), or the interpregnancy interval are associated with subsequent adverse pregnancy outcomes in nulliparous women. Methods We performed a secondary analysis of data collected from nulliparous women enrolled in a completed trial of vitamins C and E or placebo for preeclampsia prevention. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for maternal and fetal outcomes were determined for nulliparous women with prior SABs and IABs as compared with primigravid participants. Results Compared with primigravidas, women with one prior SAB were at increased risk for perinatal death (adj. OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1–2.3) in subsequent pregnancies. Two or more SABs were associated with an increased risk for spontaneous preterm birth (PTB) (adj. OR, 2.6, 95% CI, 1.7–4.0), preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) (adj. OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.6–5.3), and perinatal death (adj. OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.5–5.3). Women with one previous IAB had higher rates of spontaneous PTB (adj. OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.0–1.9) and preterm PROM (OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.4–3.0). An interpregnancy interval less than 6 months after SAB was not associated with adverse outcomes. Conclusion Nulliparous women with a history of SAB or IAB, especially multiple SABs, are at increased risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Phase and amplitude uncertainties in heterodyne detection

The quantum limits on simultaneous phase and squared-amplitude measurements made via optical heterodyne detection on a single-mode radiation field are established. The analysis proceeds from a fully quantum mechanical treatment of heterodyning with ideal photon detectors. A high mean field uncertainty principle is proven for simultaneous phase and squared-amplitude observations under the condition that the signal and image band states are independent, and the image band has zero mean. Operator representations are developed which show that no such principle applies when arbitrary signal/image band dependence is permitted, although the mean observations are no longer functions of the signal field alone. A multimode two-photon coherent state illustrating this behavior at finite energy is exhibited. Potential applications for the resulting improved accuracy measurements are briefly described.
A color spot test for the detection of Kryptofix 2.2.2 in [18F]FDG preparations

A color spot test is described that can confirm the absence of Kryptofix 2.2.2 in 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) in less than 5 min. Pretreated strips of plastic-backed silica gel 60 thin-layer chromatographic medium, saturated with iodoplatinate reagent, are over-spotted with separate droplets of final product [18F]FDG and Kryptofix standard solutions. A blue-black circular spot is clearly visible at Kryptofix concentrations as low as 2 micrograms/mL.
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 in the nervous system.

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is a nuclear enzyme, activated by DNA strand breaks to participate in DNA repair. Overactivation of PARP by cellular insults depletes its substrate NAD+ and then ATP, leading to a major energy deficit and cell death. This mechanism appears to be prominent in vascular stroke and other neurodegenerative processes in which PARP gene deletion and PARP-inhibiting drugs provide major protection. Cell death associated with PARP-1 overactivation appears to be predominantly necrotic while apoptosis is associated with PARP-1 cleavage, which may conserve energy needed for the apoptotic process. Novel forms of PARP derived from distinct genes and lacking classic DNA-binding domains may have nonnuclear functions, perhaps linked to cellular energy dynamics.
Transition metal/UV-based advanced oxidation technologies for water decontamination

Abstract This study explores the effect of ultraviolet (UV) light radiation and/or transition metals (M) for the activation of common oxidants (Ox) with the objective of treating recalcitrant organic contaminants in water. Hydrogen peroxide, potassium peroxymonosulfate and potassium persulfate were combined with iron, cobalt and silver, respectively, and/or with UV light (254 nm) and were tested for the treatment of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP). Results from our previous studies indicated that these particular transition metals are the best catalysts for the activation of the respective oxidants [G.P. Anipsitakis, D.D. Dionysiou, Environ. Sci. Technol. 37 (2003) 4790; G.P. Anipsitakis, D.D. Dionysiou, Environ. Sci. Technol. 38 (2004) 3705]. From the combined use of UV, the oxidants and the transition metals, four general categories of advanced oxidation technologies were evaluated and compared for the degradation and mineralization of 2,4-DCP. Those were (i) the dark conjunction of each oxidant with its favorable metal activator (M/Ox), (ii) the use of UV alone, (iii) the combination of UV with each oxidant (UV/Ox) and (iv) the use of UV combined with each metal/oxidant systems (UV/M/Ox). In particular, the systems UV/KHSO5, UV/Co(II)/KHSO5 and UV/Ag(I)/K2S2O8 and the sulfate radicals generated thereby have never been tested before for water decontamination, as opposed to the extensively investigated hydroxyl radicals generated by UV/H2O2 and the photo-Fenton. The comparison of the results with respect to the transformation of 2,4-DCP and the extent of organic carbon removal led to the construction of the following order of efficiencies: UV/K2S2O8 > UV/KHSO5 > UV/H2O2 for the UV/Ox processes and UV/Fe(III)/H2O2 > UV/Fe(II)/H2O2 > UV/Co(II)/KHSO5 > UV/Ag(I)/K2S2O8 for the UV/M/Ox processes tested here. All experiments were homogeneous and conducted at ambient room temperature. The relative absorbance of the species participating in the reactions supports the former order of efficiency, since persulfate followed by peroxymonosulfate were proven more photosensitive than hydrogen peroxide. Among the metals tested, only iron species such as Fe(OH)2+ were found to absorb strongly at 254 nm and to this is attributed the higher efficiencies obtained with the photo-Fenton reagents.
THE BULLETIN OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF INTERNAL SECRETIONS THE NEUROHYPOPHYSIS AND WATER EXCHANGE IN THE MONKEY1

It has been emphasised that the supraoptico-hypophyseal system forms an anatomical and functional unit and that injury to any part of it is reflected by the presence of degenerative changes in the other parts. When, however, the tracts are interrupted in the hypothalamus, not only the infundibular process, but also the median eminence and infundibular stem are deprived of their nerve fibers. This is important because the last 1 structures are histc logically similar to the infundibular process and in all probability all 3 parts are concerned in the elaboration of the antidiuretic principle. We believe that the failure of many investigators to produce experimental diabetes insipidus by stalk section or attempted extirpation of the neurohypophysis has been in large part due to their failure to make the line of incision high enough, in both instances the median eminence being left intact.
Image Processing Techniques Applied to 3-D Attribute Volumes For Lithology Distribution

Image processing provides a comprehensive set of reference-standard algorithms and graphical tools for image processing, analysis, visualization, and algorithm development. For geophysical applications, it has been used for fault detection so far. So, taking advantages from these techniques, the design of special spatial filters has being done which help to map a possible sand/shale lithology distribution, reducing low amplitude attribute “artifacts” associated with shale-on-shale or other lithologies, allowing to the interpreter exploits the data richness available in 3-D seismic data, and corresponding 3-D seismic attribute volumes.
Piceatannol, a stilbene phytochemical, inhibits mitochondrial F0F1-ATPase activity by targeting the F1 complex.

Piceatannol is a stilbene phytochemical from the seeds of Euphorbia lagascae, previously identified as an antileukemic principle. Piceatannol is considered an inhibitor of several tyrosine kinases. We recently reported that resveratrol, another stilbene phytoalexin from grape seeds, was an inhibitor of ATP synthase. Here, we demonstrated that piceatannol potently inhibited the rat brain mitochondrial F0F1-ATPase activity in both solubilized and submitochondrial preparations (IC50 of 8-9 microM), while having relatively small effect on the Na(+), K(+)-ATPase activity of porcine cerebral cortex (no effect up to 7 microM). Piceatannol inhibited the ATPase activity of the purified rat liver F1 with IC50 of about 4 microM, while resveratrol was slightly less active (IC50 of about 14 microM). Our results indicate that piceatannol and resveratrol inhibit the F-type ATPase by targeting the F1 sector, which is located to the inner membrane of mitochondria and plasma membrane of normal endothelial cells and several cancer cell lines. This mechanism could potentially contribute to the multiple effects of these chemopreventive phytochemicals.
Measurement of electronic splitting in PbS quantum dots by two-dimensional nonlinear spectroscopy

Quantum dots exhibit rich and complex electronic structure that makes them ideal for studying the basic physics of semiconductors in the intermediate regime between bulk materials and single atoms. The remarkable nonlinear optical properties of these nanostructures make them strong candidates for photonics applications. Here, we experimentally probe changes in the fine structure on ultrafast timescales of a colloidal solution of PbS quantum dots through their nonlinear optical response despite extensive inhomogeneous spectral broadening. Using continuum excitation and detection, we observe electronic coupling between nearly degenerate exciton states split by intervalley scattering at low exciton occupancy and a sub-100 fs frequency shift presumably due to phonon-assisted transitions. At high excitation intensities, we observe multi-exciton effects and sharp absorbance bands indicative of exciton-exciton coupling. Our experiments directly probe the nonlinear optical response of nearly degenerate quantum confined nanostructures with femtosecond temporal resolution despite extensive line broadening caused by the finite size distribution found in colloidal solutions.
Hepatic and muscle insulin action during late pregnancy in the dog

We evaluated the effects of physiologic increases in insulin on hepatic and peripheral glucose metabolism in nonpregnant (NP) and pregnant (P; 3rd trimester) conscious dogs (n = 9 each) using trace...
Clinical L-Type Ca2+Channel Blockade Prevents Ischemic Preconditioning of Human Myocardium

Although Ca(2+) channel blockers are commonly used to control both blood pressure and angina in patients with coronary artery disease, clinical trials have associated the use of L-type Ca(2+) channel blockers with increased cardiovascular mortality. Recent evidence has implicated Ca(2+) entry through the L-type Ca(2+) channel during transient ischemia as a proximal stimulus for ischemic preconditioning (IPC) in experimental animals. We therefore hypothesized that clinical L-type Ca(2+) channel blockade prevents IPC in human myocardium. Human atrial trabeculae were suspended in organ baths, field simulated at 1 Hz, and force development was recorded. Following 90 min equilibration, trabeculae from control patients and patients taking L-type Ca(2+) channel blockers were subjected to simulated ischemia/reperfusion (I/R: 45/120 min) with or without 5 min of simulated ischemia (IPC stimulus) prior to I/R. IPC increased post-ischemic developed force in control patients from 14.6+/-2.6 to 43.1+/-3.5% baseline developed force (%BDF P 0.05 L-type I/R v L-type IPC). We conclude that: (1) atrial muscle can be preconditioned by transient ischemia; (2) atrial muscle from patients taking L-type Ca(2+) channel blockers cannot be preconditioned by transient ischemia; and (3) the increased cardiovascular mortality historically associated with the use of Ca(2) channel blockers in patients with coronary artery disease may be, in part, due to the pharmacological inhibition of ischemic preconditioning.
Finite beta in reversed field pinches

Beta is computed self‐consistently in reversed field pinches, using reduced magnetohydrodynamics with transport. Qualitative agreement with the OHTE experiment [Bull. Am. Phys. Soc. 29, 330 (1984)] is found. A derivation of the finite beta reduced equations is presented. The relation of the dynamo effect to anomalous transport is described. The scaling of the δB/B with S is obtained.
Plasma Heating by an Intense Electron Beam

An intense pulsed electron beam ($\frac{\ensuremath{\nu}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}\ensuremath{\sim}2$) was used to heat electrons in a target plasma in a magnetic field. A strong beam-plasma interaction was observed. Measured heating levels were found to be consistent with a two-stream instability calculation and return-current heating estimates. Energetic counter-streaming electrons were detected in the plasma during the beam pulse and possible sources of these electrons are suggested.
Thermally stabilized combustion as a means of studying the devolatilization of coal

Thermally stabilized combustion of premixed ethane and air in a ceramic tube results in a virtual step function in temperature, composition, and velocity at the flame front. Fit the mixture is fuel-rich, the burned gas consists almost wholly of CO, CO{sub 2}, H{sub 2}O, and N{sub 2}. For a tube greater than 30 mm in diameter, the stable range of flow is in the turbulent regime both upstream and downstream from the flame front. In this paper an experimental technique exploiting this environment for study of the devolatilization of coal is described, and illustrative results are presented. As compared with other techniques using heated grids or entrainment, the conditions outside a particle are more uniform and the rate of heating is greater, but the velocity and temperature of the particle must be determined from momentum and energy balances rather than by direct measurement.
Resistance to sliding of stainless steel multistranded archwires and comparison with single-stranded leveling wires.

Abstract The sliding mechanics of multistranded stainless steel (SS) wires were compared with single-stranded leveling wires in the passive and the active regions when dominated by classical friction and elastic binding, respectively. Tests were done under both dry and wet (human saliva) conditions. The round multistranded wires had 3- (triple) and 6-stranded (coax) configurations in nominal sizes of 15.5, 17.5, 19.5, and 21.5 mil; the rectangular wires had 3- (rect3) and 8-stranded (rect8) configurations in nominal sizes of 16 × 16, 16 × 22, 17 × 25, and 19 × 25 mil. While a ligature force of 150 g was applied and the second-order angulation was varied from −12° to 12°, each wire was translated relative to its bracket as the drawing force was digitally recorded. Linear regressions were fitted separately to the passive and the active regions. In the passive region, the kinetic coefficients of friction μ k-FR in the wet state were the same as, lower than, and higher than in the dry state for single-stranded SS, single-stranded nickel titanium (NiTi), and multistranded SS wires, respectively. Because the kinetic coefficients of friction were similar for multistranded and single-stranded SS wires, μ k-FR is a material property for SS and perhaps also for NiTi. In the active region, the frictional behaviors of multistranded SS wires compared with other leveling archwires are as follows: (1) coax wires had low friction, (2) triple and rect8 wires had midrange friction, and (3) rect3 wires had high friction. The coefficients of binding (μ BI ) were not affected by saliva and were proportional to the wire stiffnesses. The resistance to sliding depended on wire stiffnesses to the extent that the differences in the μ k-FR 's of SS versus NiTi became unimportant shortly after binding occurred. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2002;122:73-83)
Binary Depth Detection based on Cross-Spectral Density

We have developed an optical system for discriminating depth between two uniformly illuminated featureless objects based on cross-spectral density. With volume holograms, we encode the lateral and axial dimensions in wavelength and spatial coherence, respectively.
Oxygen-induced lung toxicity: Effect on serotonin disposition and metabolism

Abstract The effect of oxygen-induced lung injury on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) disposition and metabolism was studied in the mouse. Animals were exposed to 100% oxygen under normobaric conditions, and the levels of endogenous 5-HT and exogenous [ 3 H]5-HT were assessed after 24 to 96 hr of exposure. By determining both 5-HT and [ 3 H]5-HT, information concerning changes occurring over each 24-hr interval and at specific time points was obtained. After only 48 hr of oxygen exposure, lung contents of 5-HT and [ 3 H]5-HT were significantly elevated (164 and 147%, respectively, of air-exposed controls) and continued to increase as a function of oxygen exposure time (96 hr, 225 and 206%, respectively). The opposite trend was observed in the plasma levels of 5-HT and [ 3 H]5-HT. The observed changes in 5-HT/[ 3 H]5-HT occurred prior to pulmonary edema formation and the earliest reported morphological changes. Lung slices obtained from animals exposed to 100% oxygen did not significantly differ from air-exposed controls in their ability to accumulate [ 14 C]5-HT. Lung monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity was significantly decreased (24 to 37%) at 24 hr of oxygen exposure but returned to and occasionally exceeded control levels with continued exposure. It was shown that lung levels of 5-HT and [ 3 H]5-HT correlated with the degree of oxygen-induced injury to the pulmonary vasculature and suggested that 5-HT may be a factor in the pathogenesis of the vasculature injury and/or pulmonary edema formation.
THE K-, L-, AND M-AUGER AND L-COSTER--KRONIG SPECTRA OF PLATINUM.

Abstract The K-, L- and M-Auger and L-Coster-Kronig spectra of platinum in the electron capture decay of 195 Au was measured by means of the Vanderbilt iron-free, double-focussing spectrometer. The energies and relative intensities of 55 peaks were measured in the L-Auger spectrum in the energy range of 5 to 12 keV. The intensities are compared to those calculated theoretically for silver by Asaad. The total L-Coster-Kronig plus M-Auger intensity (0 to 3.25 keV) was measured relative to the L-Auger intensity. The measured relative intensities of the KLL Auger lines are compared to the theoretical and experimental results of others. The measured KLL energies agree with those calculated semi-theoretically by Hornfeldt and by Listengarten. A value of KLX/KLL = 0.548±0.044 was measured. A measurement of the KL 3 L 3 ( 3 P 0 )/KL 3 L 3 ( 3 P 0 + 3 P 2 ) ratio, the first reported in this Z -region, gave a value of 0.095±0.024.
Chemistry of CCl4 on Fe3O4(111)-(2×2) surfaces in the presence of adsorbed D2O studied by temperature programmed desorption

Abstract Temperature programmed desorption (TPD) was used to study surface reactions of Fe 3 O 4 (1 1 1)-(2 × 2) sequentially exposed, at ∼100 K, to vapor-phase D 2 O and CCl 4 . Previous TPD and XPS results have indicated that in the absence of D 2 O, CCl 4 dissociatively adsorbs on Fe 3 O 4 (1 1 1) producing chemisorbed Cl and CCl 2 . Subsequent heating of the surface results in abstraction of lattice iron and oxygen atoms and causes them to desorb as FeCl 2 and OCCl 2 , respectively. This study shows that when this Fe 3 O 4 surface is exposed only to D 2 O, TPD measures a rich surface chemistry with multiple desorption events extending as high as ∼800 K, indicating dissociative adsorption of D 2 O on the Fe 3 O 4 (1 1 1) surface. After sequential exposure to D 2 O and then CCl 4 , the production of FeCl 2 and OCCl 2 from adsorbed CCl 4 is suppressed, indicating that D 2 O fragments block the surface reactive sites.
In vitro maturation of human oocytes for assisted reproduction

Objective To describe and evaluate the current practice of in vitro maturation of oocytes for assisted reproduction. Design Review of the available and relevant literature regarding in vitro maturation of oocytes. Conclusion(s) In vitro maturation of human oocytes retrieved from antral ovarian follicles is an emerging procedure quickly being incorporated into the realm of assisted reproductive technologies. This new technology has several potential advantages over traditional controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF, such as reduction of costs by minimizing gonadotropin and GnRH analogue use, elimination of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and simplicity of protocol. In vitro maturation of oocytes for assisted reproduction in human beings still is undergoing refinement but currently is providing efficacy and safety outcome comparable to that of traditional IVF in recent selected studies. Implementing in vitro maturation into an established IVF practice is feasible and requires only a few simple adjustments. Crucial to the advancement and optimization of the technology is a better understanding of how to maximize immature oocyte developmental competence and endometrial receptivity.
Markets: cartel behavior and amateurism in college sports.

This paper studies intercollegiate athletics in the context of the theory of cartels. Some point to the explicit attempts by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to restrict output and payments for factors of production as evidence of cartel behavior. Others argue that such limits enhance product quality by preserving amateurism. I find that the NCAA's compensation limits on athletes lead to high levels of rents from the entertainment revenues produced by the athletes, a finding consistent with the cartel interpretation. The athletes producing these rents are disproportionately African-American, while the beneficiaries are primarily white. The rents are typically spent on facilities, nonrevenue sports, and, possibly, head coaches' salaries. Big-time football and men's basketball programs earn accounting profits, although the athletic departments in which they reside make accounting losses on average. However, there is some evidence, albeit not unanimous, that sports generate alumni contributions, state appropriations, and additional student applications. But, arms race considerations suggest that there may be some societal gains to the aggregate limitation of spending on college athletics.
Heats of Chemisorption of O2, H2, CO, CO2, and N2 on Polycrystalline and Single Crystal Transition Metal Surfaces

Abstract One of the important physical-chemical properties that characterizes the interaction of solid surfaces with gases is the bond energy of the adsorbed species. The determination of the bond energy is usually performed indirectly by measuring the heat of adsorption (or heat of desorption) of the gas [1, 2], In order to define the heat of adsorption, let us consider the chemisorption of a diatomic molecule, X2, onto a site on a uniform solid surface, M. The molecule may adsorb without dissociation to form MX2. M represents the adsorption site where bonding occurs to a cluster of atoms or to a single atom. In this circumstance, the heat of adsorption, ΔHads, is defined as the energy needed to break the MX2 bond:
Ground‐State Energy of Lithium and Three‐Electron Ions by Perturbation Theory

Perturbation theory has been applied to the calculation of the energy of the (1s)22s 2S ground state of the lithium atom and three‐electron ion series, with the entire interelectron repulsion potential employed as the perturbation. The wavefunction to first order has been written down in terms of variation perturbation first‐order wavefunctions for the three states of the two‐electron ion: (1s)2 1S, 1s2s 1S, and 1s2s 3S. From the first‐order wavefunction, the second‐order and third‐order contributions to the energy have been calculated. The results are that the nonrelativistic Schrodinger energy for the ground state of two‐electron ions (with fixed nucleus) is given by E(Z)=−1.125Z2+1.022805Z−0.4083–0.0230(1/Z)+O(1/Z2) a.u. The term in Z0 is in agreement with an empirical value within the uncertainty of the latter. The above expression gives an overall energy better for the larger values of Z than any existing direct variation or configuration interaction calculation and shows that the perturbation expans...
Beyond the dyad: Including the father in separation-individuation

As a result of changes in family role distribution generated by the Women's Movement, many fathers are participating more directly in the care of their infants and young children. To be responsive to this change in the ecology of parenting, clinicians must reconsider and update traditional formulations about fatherhood toward, an expanded theoretical perspective for learning about and helping families. Using Mahler's phases of separation-individuation as an organizing conceptual framework, the author, reviews recent theory and empirical findings regarding the role of the father in preoedipal development and discusses some implications for social work practice.
Galvanomagnetic and Thermomagnetic Effects in Isotropic Materials

Invariant‐theoretical considerations are employed to obtain constitutive equations for the current density vector, the heat flux vector, and the magnetic intensity field in isotropic materials (both holohedral and hemihedral) when an electric field, a magnetic induction field, and a temperature gradient are simultaneously present in the material. Certain of the interaction effects which are indicated by these constitutive equations are discussed.
Monitoring Massive Fracture Growth at 2-Km Depths Using Surface Tiltmeter Arrays

Abstract Tilt due to massive hydraulic fractures induced in sedimentary rocks at depths of up to 2.2 km have been recorded by surface tiltmeters. Injection of fluid volumes up to 4 · 105 liters and masses of propping agent up to 5 · 105 kg is designed to produce fractures approximately 1 km long, 50–100 m high and about 1 cm wide. The surface tilt data adequately fit a dislocation model of a tensional fault in a half-space. Theoretical and observational results indicate that maximum tilt occurs at a distance off the strike of the fracture equivalent to 0.4 of the depth to the fracture. Azimuth and extent of the fracture deduced from the geometry of the tilt field agree with other kinds of geophysical measurements. Detailed correlation of the tilt signatures with pumping parameters (pressure, rate, volume, mass) have provided details on asymmetry in geometry and growth rate. Whereas amplitude variations in tilt vary inversely with the square of the depth, changes in flow rate or pressure gradient can produce a cubic change in width. These studies offer a large-scale experimental approach to the study of problems involving fracturing, mass transport, and dilatancy processes.
Measuring and mapping cardiac fiber and laminar architecture using diffusion tensor MR imaging

: The ventricular myocardium is known to exhibit a complex spatial organization, with fiber orientation varying as a function of transmural location. It is now well established that diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DTMRI) may be used to measure this fiber orientation at high spatial resolution. Cardiac fibers are also known to be organized in sheets with surface orientation varying throughout the ventricles. This article reviews results on use of DTMRI for measuring ventricular fiber orientation, as well as presents new results providing strong evidence that the tertiary eigenvector of the diffusion tensor is aligned locally with the cardiac sheet surface normal. Considered together, these data indicate that DTMRI may be used to reconstruct both ventricular fiber and sheet organization. This article also presents the large deformation diffeomorphic metric mapping (LDDMM) algorithm and shows that this algorithm may be used to bring ensembles of imaged and reconstructed hearts into correspondence (e.g., registration) so that variability of ventricular geometry, fiber, and sheet orientation may be quantified. Ventricular geometry and fiber structure is known to be remodeled in a range of disease processes; however, descriptions of this remodeling have remained subjective and qualitative. We anticipate that use of DTMRI for reconstruction of ventricular anatomy coupled with application of the LDDMM method for image volume registration will enable the detection and quantification of changes in cardiac anatomy that are characteristic of specific disease processes in the heart. Finally, we show that epicardial electrical mapping and DTMRI imaging may be performed in the same hearts. The anatomic data may then be used to simulate electrical conduction in a computational model of the very same heart that was mapped electrically. This facilitates direct comparison and testing of model versus experimental results and opens the door to quantitative measurement, modeling, and analysis of the ways in which remodeling of ventricular microanatomy influences electrical conduction in the heart.
An investigation of the effect of the structure of alkylbenzenesulfonates on the fluorescence properties of micellar aggregates

Abstract We have investigated the effect of surfactant structure on aqueous micellar solutions formed by two monomeric series of sodium alkylbenzensulfonates (xφC12 and xφC16, where x = 3, 4, 5 ⋯ and indicates the position of the benzene ring [φ] along the alkyl chain) by fluorescence polarization and excimer emission spectroscopy. Our attention was focused on clear aqueous dispersions. Microviscosity around the benzene ring was shown to depend strongly on the isomer composition and is mainly determined by the short alkyl chain (SAC) of the double-tailed surfactants. The size of the aggregate seems largely to be determined by the long alkyl chain (LAC). Excimer emission and fluorescence polarization showed that the benzene ring, in all cases, resists both translational and rotational diffusion in a similar manner.
Spin correlation measurements in pseudoscalar meson photoproduction

Abstract Because polarized photon beams and polarized proton targets have improved considerably and the techniques for measuring recoil bary on polarizations are continually improving, it is becoming feasible to measure double and triple spin correlations in pseudoscalar meson photoproduction. Of the large number of such experiments possible, only a few will add significantly ne new information to that already obtained from the existing cross section and limited polarization measurements. Using a simple, general, and transparent method, we shall show that all such measurements fall into three classes: (a) those which are equivalent to more simple measurements, (b) those which are highly bounded by previous measurements, and (c) those which yield truly new information.
Structured timing patterns within bursts from epileptic neurons in undrugged monkey cortex.

Abstract While normal cortical neurons often show ill-defined, labile bursts during spontaneous firing, stereotyped high-frequency bursts every 50–200 msec are characteristic of the firing patterns of neurons near chronically alumina-induced epileptic foci in sensorimotor cortex of awake, undrugged rhesus monkeys. Computer-assisted analysis of the timing patterns within bursts revealed an unusually long interval between the first and second spikes of these epileptic bursts, with the later spikes of the burst time-locked to the second spike, not the first spike. In some neurons, this stereotyped “remainder” of the burst would begin at a highly variable time following the first spike. In other neurons, this first interval was bimodal, with the remainder of the burst starting either 3 or 4 msec following the first spike. In a third class of epileptic neuron, the first interval was unusually long and remarkably lacking in variability (8.6 ± 0.2 msec). Other neurons, especially those located further away from the epileptogenic focus, showed less stereotyped bursts without the long first intervals. One explanation considered for these phenomena is that the neuron is being stimulated antidromically (first spike) and responds repetitively (remainder of the burst).
Tangent constitutive matrices for inelastic finite element analysis

A general formulation is presented for the tangent constitutive matrices of rate-independent material models which assume that the strain increment consists of two components. One component is related to the stress increment through a known constitutive matrix, while the other component results from deformation mechanisms not reflected in the constitutive matrix. Application to both the classicial and endochronic theories of plasticity and to a smeared crack theory is illustrated
Opposing adrenergic actions of intravenous metformin on arterial pressure in female spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Objective: Intravenous (iv) injection of the antidiabetic drug metformin rapidly lowers mean arterial pressure (MAP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, if autonomic ganglia or α-adrenoceptors are first blocked then metformin rapidly raises MAP in SHR. This study was conducted to further characterize the adrenergic mechanisms of these opposing iv actions of the drug. Methods: Conscious, undisturbed female SHR with indwelling vascular catheters were used to measure acute effects of iv metformin (100 mg/kg; before and after sustained ganglionic blockade, GB, with chlorisondamine, 5 mg/kg) on: (1) circulating levels of catecholamines, (2) MAP after pharmacologic modulation of β- as well as α-adrenoceptors and (3) all the above in the absence as well as presence of the adrenal medulla. Results: Plasma norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) levels (pg/ml) were rapidly increased by iv metformin (8 SHR, p <0.05) both before GB (ΔNE=+146±41; ΔE=+119±31) and after GB (ΔNE=+79±24; ΔE=+120±32). Similar increases in plasma NE (though not E) were seen in SHR without adrenal medullae. Blockade of β-adrenoceptors with propranolol (pro; 3 mg/kg, 8 SHR) enhanced the rapid depressor response to iv metformin before GB (ΔMAP, mmHg: −38±4 with pro vs −17±3 without pro; p <0.05) and attenuated the rapid pressor response to iv metformin after GB (ΔMAP, mmHg: +8±3 with pro vs +30±4 without pro; p <0.05). Results were similar in SHR without adrenal medullae. Finally, if baseline MAP under GB was raised back to hypertensive levels with iv infusion of either NE or phenylephrine then iv metformin did not raise but rather reduced MAP in SHR. Conclusion(s): The acute depressor action of iv metformin in female SHR (1) is most likely due to a direct vasodilator action which includes inhibition of α-receptor-mediated vasoconstriction and (2) is buffered by an acute β-receptor-mediated pressor action likely due to a direct metformin-induced release of NE from postganglionic sympathetic nerve endings.
Data filtering for automatic classification of rocks from reflectance spectra

The ability to identify the mineral composition of rocks and soils is an important tool for the exploration of geological sites. For instance, NASA intends to design robots that are sufficiently autonomous to perform this task on planetary missions. Spectrometer readings provide one important source of data for identifying sites with minerals of interest. Reflectance spectrometers measure intensities of light reflected from surfaces over a range of wavelengths. Spectral intensity patterns may in some cases be sufficiently distinctive for proper identification of minerals or classes of minerals. For some mineral classes, carbonates for example, specific short spectral intervals are known to carry a distinctive signature. Finding similar distinctive spectral ranges for other mineral classes is not an easy problem. We propose and evaluate data-driven techniques that automatically search for spectral ranges optimized for specific minerals. In one set of studies, we partition the whole interval of wavelengths available in our data into sub-intervals, or bins, and use a genetic algorithm to evaluate a candidate selection of subintervals. As alternatives to this computationally expensive search technique, we present an entropy-based heuristic that gives higher scores for wavelengths more likely to distinguish between classes, as well as other greedy search procedures. Results are presented for four different classes, showing reasonable improvements in identifying some, but not all, of the mineral classes tested.
Alpha anomers of iGb3 and Gb3 stimulate cytokine production by natural killer T cells.

Natural killer T cells (NKT cells) respond to presentation of specific glycolipids with release of a variety of proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines. The repertoire of glycolipid antigens for these cells includes α-glycosylceramides, α-glycosyldiacylglycerols, and the triglycosylceramide iGb3. Two features of iGb3 set it apart from these other antigens: (1) three sugars are required for stimulation and (2) the glycosidic bond between ceramide and the proximal sugar is beta in iGb3 whereas it is alpha in other antigens. We have synthesized the alpha versions of iGb3 and Gb3 and demonstrate that they are effective antigens for NKT cells and that they do not require lysosomal processing to the monoglycosylceramides for stimulation. These triglycosylceramides constitute a new class of antigen that stimulates NKT cells comparably to monoglycosylceramides.
Absolute Binding Affinity Calculation for MDM2 Bound to a Disordered Fragment of P53

Accurate calculation of of protein-protein binding affinities remains a key challenge in computational biophysics and biochemistry. This challenge is even more acute when one binding partner is intrinsically disordered in its unbound state. In this study, a potential mean force (PMF) method was used to calculate the absolute binding affinity for MDM2 and the intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) fragment of p53. Angular and conformational restraints were applied to the protein during the PMF calculation, and the resulting binding affinity was corrected to account for these restraints. The calculated binding affinity closely matches experimental values and suggests that this approach could be used to determine protein-protein affinities for other IDP systems.
Charge asymmetry in the mass-13 isobar

Abstract Taking into account the Coulomb interaction as a perturbation to the charge independent forces, the charge asymmetric properties of the lowest T = 3 2 , I = 3 2 and the ground T = 1 2 , I = 1 2 states for the mass-13 nuclei are investigated. As in the previous paper, the charge independent wave function by Cohen and Kurath is used as a basis, and the radial wave function is generated to fit the charge radius obtained by the electron scattering experiments. The effect of the Coulomb interaction is taken into account in a first order perturbation calculation. We have calculated the Coulomb energies and obtained the isobaric multiplet mass equation. Overall agreement with experimental data is obtained for the T = 3 2 and I = 3 2 state although it is found difficult to fit accurately for the ground state. The isospin-forbidden nucleon widths are also calculated along the line of the previous paper, but using the wave function obtained above and taking into account the neglected terms. The results are not essentially different from the previous ones. The M1 transition and β-decay rate between the T = 3 2 , I = 3 2 and the T = 1 2 , I = 1 2 states are also calculated and we obtained a small charge asymmetry which is not enough to explain experimental data.
The effects of focal articular defects on cartilage contact mechanics.

Focal damage to articular cartilage is common in arthroscopy patients and may contribute to progressive tissue degeneration by altering the local mechanical environment. The effects of a focal defect, which may be oriented at various orientations relative to the subchondral bone, on the dynamics of cartilage contact and deformation are unclear. The objective of this study was to elucidate the effect of experimental full thickness focal defects, oriented at 80° or 100° relative to the subchondral bone, on intra-tissue strain and surface sliding of opposing cartilage surfaces during compression and stress relaxation. Pairs of intact bovine osteochondral blocks were compressed uniaxially by 20%, and allowed to stress relax. Tissue deformation was recorded by video microscopy. A full-thickness defect (with either 80° or 100° edges) was created in one block from each pair. Blocks were allowed to re-swell and retested. Defect edges were then re-cut with the opposite orientation, allowed to re-swell, and retested again. Stained nuclei were tracked by digital image correlation and used to quantify cartilage strains and surface sliding. The results indicated that loading of intact samples caused axial strain magnitudes that decreased with depth and relatively little sliding. With loading of samples containing defects, strain magnitudes were elevated in cartilage adjacent to, and opposing, defects. For samples with edge orientations of 100°, sliding magnitudes were increased over surfaces adjacent to defects. These local mechanical changes due to full-thickness articular cartilage defects may contribute to altered chondrocyte metabolism, tissue damage, or accelerated wear.
BOND YIELDS: TRENDS OR RANDOM WALKS?*

A considerable amount of evidence has been presented during recent years to demonstrate that in highly competitive and organized markets price changes will be close to random [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]. Random Walk theorists usually start from the premise of an “efficient” market. An “efficient” market is defined as a market in which there are large numbers of rational profit-maximizers actively competing with each other to predict future market values and in which important current information is available to all participants [4].
Latent Variable Models Under Misspecification: Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) Estimators:

This article compares maximum likelihood (ML) estimation to three variants of two-stage least squares (2SLS) estimation in structural equation models. The authors use models that are both correctly and incorrectly specified. Simulated data are used to assess bias, efficiency, and accuracy of hypothesis tests. Generally, 2SLS with reduced sets of instrumental variables performs similarly to ML when models are correctly specified. Under correct specification, both estimators have little bias except at the smallest sample sizes and are approximately equally efficient. As predicted, when models are incorrectly specified, 2SLS generally performs better, with less bias and more accurate hypothesis tests. Unless a researcher has tremendous confidence in the correctness of his or her model, these results suggest that a 2SLS estimator should be considered.
Nodal grafting for crack propagation studies

A simple, efficient method for propagating cracks through a finite element mesh is presented: nodes, borrowed from other points in the mesh, are ‘grafted’ along the advancing crack front. The method requires neither an increase in bandwidth nor a mesh regeneration. It can be easily implemented in any existing program using iso(sub)parametric elements of at least quadratic order.
Sintering behavior of Lanthana-bearing nanostructured ferritic steel consolidated via spark plasma sintering

Elemental powder mixture of Fe–14Cr–1Ti–0.3Mo–0.5La2O3 (wt%) composition is mechanically alloyed for different milling durations (5, 10 and 20 h) and subsequently consolidated via spark plasma sintering under vacuum at 950 °C for 7 min. The effects of milling time on the densification behavior and density/microhardness are studied. The sintering activation energy is found to be close to that of grain boundary diffusion. The bimodal grain structure created in the milled and sintered material is found to be a result of milling and not of sintering alone. The oxide particle diameter varies between 2 and 70 nm. As a result, faceted precipitates smaller than 10 nm in diameter are found to be mostly La–Ti–Cr-enriched complex oxides that restrict further recrystallization and related phenomena.
Comparative study of internal and hybrid external fixation in tibial condylar fractures.

Background The spectrum of injuries to the tibial plateau is so great that no single method of treatment has been proven to be uniformly successful. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the clinical results, to identify the advantages and disadvantages and to take out useful conclusions of the application of the internal and hybrid external fixation in the treatment of these fractures.
Plasma omega-3 PUFA and white matter mediated executive decline in older adults.

Introduction: Cross-sectional studies have identified long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid 20:5n-3 and docosahexaenoic acid 22:6n-3 (O3PUFA) in association with fewer white matter lesions and better executive function in older adults. We hypothesized that O3PUFA are associated with less executive decline over time and that total white matter hyperintensity volume (WMH) mediates the putative association. Methods: Eighty-six non-demented older adults were followed over 4 years after measurement of plasma O3PUFA with annual evaluations of cognitive function. A subset of these participants also had brain MRI of total WMH available to conduct a formal mediation analysis of a putative relationship between O3PUFA and cognitive function. Results: Mean age at baseline was 86, 62% were female and 11% carried the APOE4 allele. Each 100 μg/ml increase in plasma O3PUFA associated with 4 seconds less change in executive decline per year of aging (p = 0.02, fully adjusted model). O3PUFA was not associated with verbal memory or global cognitive changes. The significance of the association between O3PUFA and better executive function was lost once WMH was added to the regression model. Conclusion: Executive decline with age appears to be a cognitive domain particularly sensitive to plasma O3PUFA in longitudinal examination. O3PUFA may modulate executive functioning by mechanisms underlying the development of WMH, a biologically plausible hypothesis that warrants further investigation.
Coming for to Carry Me Home: Race in America from Abolitionism to Jim Crow. By J. Michael Martinez. (Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2012. Pp. xiv, 319. $45.00.)

Synthesizing from existing scholarship, the author of this book argues for the centrality of national politics in understanding the evolution of race relations between the advent of immediate aboli...
Central pattern generators and the control of rhythmic movements

Central pattern generators are neuronal circuits that when activated can produce rhythmic motor patterns such as walking, breathing, flying, and swimming in the absence of sensory or descending inputs that carry specific timing information. General principles of the organization of these circuits and their control by higher brain centers have come from the study of smaller circuits found in invertebrates. Recent work on vertebrates highlights the importance of neuromodulatory control pathways in enabling spinal cord and brain stem circuits to generate meaningful motor patterns. Because rhythmic motor patterns are easily quantified and studied, central pattern generators will provide important testing grounds for understanding the effects of numerous genetic mutations on behavior. Moreover, further understanding of the modulation of spinal cord circuitry used in rhythmic behaviors should facilitate the development of new treatments to enhance recovery after spinal cord damage.