cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Central sites mediating reproductive responses to melatonin in juvenile male Siberian hamsters

Abstract Juvenile male Siberian hamsters received infusions of varying doses of melatonin (MEL), or saline vehicle, via microdialysis probes implanted in brain regions which have previously been shown to contain MEL receptors. Daily infusions were 10 h in length and occurred during exposure to constant light on days 22–34 of age. All animals were sacrificed on day 35 and paired testis weights recorded prior to preparation of the brain tissue for histological evaluation of the infusion site. Some animals were also blood-sampled prior to sacrifice for determination of circulating levels of prolactin (PRL). Saline infusions did not have a significant effect upon gonadal maturation, regardless of the infusion site, when compared with unoperated control animals reared under similar photoperiod conditions. In contrast, animals which received infusions of 75 pg MEL into the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus, or nucleus reuniens regions, showed a marked inhibition of gonadal growth. Infusions of this dose of MEL into various other neural regions (e.g. lateral hypothalamus, ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus) did not result in decreased testis weights at the time of sacrifice. Daily administration of 20 pg MEL inhibited gonadal maturation and resulted in decreased circulating PRL levels only when infused into the SCN region. For animals receiving the 7.5 pg dose, infusions into the midline thalamic nuclei were not successful in inhibiting testis growth, and infusions in the SCN region had only a marginal effect. These results indicate that endogenous MEL may influence at least one seasonal response in this species, i.e. reproductive responses to photoperiod, by acting at some or all of these central MEL binding sites.
A neural-network approach to the detection of texture boundaries

Abstract A neural-network architecture is used here to find boundaries between differently textured surfaces in an image. The architecture is trained on boundaries between a specific set of textures and is shown to be able to generalize its training to other textures which were not part of the training set. This is a first step towards the construction of a general texture boundary-detection system which would not require any information concerning the textures involved. Co-occurrence measures are used as a texture representation, and the cascade-correlation architecture is employed as the neural-network classifier.
Methodological issues in estimating sodium intake in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

For policy goal setting, efficacy evaluations, and the development of related programs for reducing sodium intake, it is essential to accurately identify the amount of sodium intake in South Korea and constantly monitor its trends. The present study aimed to identify the status of sodium intake in South Korea and to review the methods and their validity for estimating sodium intake in each country; through this, we aim to determine more accurate methods for determining sodium intake and to monitor the trend in sodium intake for Korean citizens in the future. Using 24-hour dietary recall data from the 2012 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) to estimate daily sodium intake, the average daily sodium intake among Koreans was 4,546 mg (men, 5,212 mg; women, 3,868 mg). In addition to the nutrition survey that uses the 24-hour dietary recall method, sodium intake can also be calculated from the amount of sodium excreted in 24-hour urine, 8-hour overnight urine, and spot urine samples. Although KNHANES uses the 24-hour dietary recall method to estimate the sodium intake, the 24-hour dietary recall method has the disadvantage of not being able to accurately determine the amount of sodium intake owing to its unique characteristics of the research method and in the processing of data. Although measuring the amount of sodium excreted in 24-hour urine is known to be the most accurate method, because collecting 24-hour urine from the general population is difficult, using spot urine samples to estimate sodium intake has been suggested to be useful for examining the trend of sodium intake in the general population. Therefore, we planned to conduct a study for estimating of 24-hour sodium excretion from spot urine and 8-hour overnight urine samples and testing the validity among subsamples in the KNHANES. Based on this result, we will adopt the most appropriate urine collection method for estimating population sodium intake in South Korea.
Selective Activation of Cognate SNAREpins by Sec1/Munc18 Proteins

Sec1/Munc18 (SM) proteins are required for every step of intracellular membrane fusion, but their molecular mechanism of action has been unclear. In this work, we demonstrate a fundamental role of the SM protein: to act as a stimulatory subunit of its cognate SNARE fusion machinery. In a reconstituted system, mammalian SNARE pairs assemble between bilayers to drive a basal fusion reaction. Munc18-1/nSec1, a synaptic SM protein required for neurotransmitter release, strongly accelerates this reaction through direct contact with both t- and v-SNAREs. Munc18-1 accelerates fusion only for the cognate SNAREs for exocytosis, therefore enhancing fusion specificity.
A Layer-Wound, 8.7-Tesla Superconducting Dipole Magnet

A superconducting dipole magnet is discussed in detail and test results are presented. The performance of the dipole magnet demonstrates that it can operate successfully at least at the lower end of fields in He 1 at about 4.3K and in He 11 between 1.8 and 2.16K. A photograph of the magnet is shown and a cross section is given. One of the goals of fabrication was to maintain the first turn of each layer in positive compression against its respective pole island during operation at the highest current. Target values for the precompression were determined for each layer.
Preimplantation processing of ex vivo‐derived vascular biomaterials: Effects on peripheral cell adhesion

The use of ex vivo-derived scaffolds as vascular conduits has shown to be a clinically valid approach to repair or bypass occluded vessels. Implantation of allogeneic tissue grafts requires careful processing to lower immunogenicity and prevent bacterial infection. However, the mechanical/ chemical treatments used to prepare biological scaffolds can result in significant alterations to the native structure and sur- face chemistry, which can affect in vivo performance. Of par- ticular importance for vascular grafts are binding interactions between the implanted biomaterial and host cells from the circulation and adjacent vasculature. Here we present a com- parison of four strategies used to decellularize allogeneic human umbilical vein (HUV) scaffolds: ethanol/acetone, so- dium chloride, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), or Triton X-100. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that all four techni- ques achieved removal of native cells from both the lumenal and ablumenal surfaces of HUV grafts. Platelets and promy- elocytic HL-60 cells showed preferential binding on the more loosely structured ablumenal surface, although low surface coverage was observed overall by peripheral blood cells. Vas- cular endothelial cell adhesion was highest on HUV decellu- larized using ethanol/acetone, and significantly higher than on SDS-processed grafts (p ¼ 0.016). Primary cells showed high viability on the lumenal surface regardless of decellulari- zation technique (over 95% in all cases). These results dem- onstrate the critical effects of various chemical processing strategies on the adhesive properties of ex vivo-derived vas- cular grafts. Careful application-specific consideration is war- ranted when selecting a processing strategy that minimizes innate responses (e.g. thrombosis, inflammation) that are of- ten deleterious to graft survival. V C
Metamorphosis of larvae of Crassostrea virginica fed microencapsulated diets

Abstract This paper reports the results of two feeding experiments in which oyster larvae (Crassostrea virginica) were grown to metamorphosis on microencapsulated diets, and provides the first successful case of culturing oyster larvae to metamorphosis on an artificial diet. Five to 25% of the larvae fed microencapsulated diets grew to the “eyed” stage in 22–25 days. About 2–20% of these “eyed” larvae metamorphosed and settled and 25–40% of these settled larvae produced spat (> 0.05 mm). Two concentrations of two microencapsulated diets were tested; results indicated that diet concentration affects larval growth and development. Microcapsules with capsule walls made of a lipid mixture containing ethyl cellulose and stearic acid improved the retention of water-soluble components. Capsules were more stable at low temperature (5°C) than at higher temperatures (22 and 28°C). Inclusion of lipid algal extract in gelatin-acacia capsules promoted better growth of larvae than those not containing the algal extract. This suggests that attractants or phagostimulants could play an important role in microencapsulated diets.
5-methoxycanthin-6-one from Leitneria floridana (Simaroubaceae)

Abstract Corkwood, Leitneria floridana , a shrub found in low, wet areas of the southeastern United States, has been considered to belong to the monotypic family Leitneriaceae, a family formerly considered to be of uncertain taxonomic affinities, but is now generally conceded to be part of the Simaroubaceae. Methanolic extraction of the wood yields a series of alkaloids (based on the Dragendorff test), of which the major component is 5-methoxycanthin-6-one. This compound was purified by thin layer chromatography and the structure elucidated by 1 H-NMR, EIMS and exact mass of the parent ion. Because indole alkaloids of the canthin-6-one type have only been isolated from the Rutaceae and Simaroubaceae, the presence of 5-methoxycanthin-6-one in Leitneria floridana further supports placement of this engimatic species in or near the Simaroubaceae.
Nine types of transformations: Is linguistics finally becoming meaningful?

Abstract Noam Chomsky has led the way for linguists in the development of models which are “elegant” in the scientific sense. Generative transformational grammar is simple, complete, internally consistent, and rule-governed. From its inception, it has had a syntactic bias, however, and Chomsky has retained this syntactic bias through Interpretive Semantics, Extended Standard Theory and into Government and Binding. However, some linguists have taken Chomsky's model in a different direction, developing a semantic bias instead, a bias which Zellig Harris and Noam Chomsky had never originally foreseen or intended. George Lakoff and others have extended the concept to deal with different parts of speech (e.g. “use” vs “with”). Charles Fillmore and others have applied it to converses (e.g. “buy” vs “sell”). The generative semantists have argued that verbs like “kill” can be lexically decomposed into “cause,” “become” and “dead,” and this lexical decomposition is transformational in nature. More recently, the model of componential analysis in particlar and network models in general have extended this lexical decomposition process into all semantic areas, and again the concept of the grammatical transformation has proven very valuable.
Analysis of tilt of the Günther Tulip filter.

Purpose To determine the frequency, dimensions, predictors, and sequelae of Gunther Tulip filter (GTF) tilt measured at the time of intended retrieval. Materials and Methods Retrospective review of all medical records and posteroanterior cavograms of 175 patients who underwent both placement and retrieval of the GTF between August 2003 and July 2007 was performed to assess the frequency, dimensions, predictors, and sequelae of tilt. Results Tilt occurred at the first retrieval attempt in 159 of the 175 patients (91%). The average degree of tilt was 7.1° (range, 0°–30°), with 87 of the 159 filters with tilt (55%) having a rightward tilt. Compared with the femoral approach, filters placed with a jugular approach demonstrated 4.2° (range of the standard deviation, 3.1°–5.3°) greater tilt at the first retrieval attempt (95% confidence interval=2.6°, 5.7°; P t test), a greater frequency of tilt of at least 14° ( P = .002, two-sided Fisher exact test), and greater rightward tilt predominance ( P = .046, one-sided Fisher exact test). Tilt magnitude at the first retrieval attempt correlated positively with the inferior vena cava diameter 40 mm caudal to the renal vein confluence ( R = .183, P = .018, Pearson correlation). Within its limitations, this study detected no new cases of pulmonary embolism, caval perforation, or GTF migration. The success rates at the first attempt at retrieval and the cumulative GTF retrieval success rates were 93% (176 of 190 filters) and 97% (181 of 190 filters), respectively. All 29 GTFs with tilt of at least 14° were placed and successfully retrieved by means of a jugular approach with minimal clinical and technical sequelae. Conclusions Frequent GTF tilt detected at the first retrieval attempt can reach at least 14° and is associated with minimal sequelae. Insertion approach and caval diameter are significant factors in GTF tilt.
New mosaic subgenotype of varicella-zoster virus in the USA: VZV detection and genotyping by oligonucleotide-microarray

A rapid and sensitive microarray-based method was used to distinguish the three major circulating genotypes of varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The method analyzes five variable positions located in a 447-nucleotide variable region 1 of open reading frame 22 (ORF 22r1); these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) display in stably occurring patterns specific to each of the VZV genotypes established in previously published studies. Pairs of short oligonucleotide probes (oligoprobes) with sequences corresponding to all of the observed SNP were used to detect specific sequences. Fluorescently labeled ssRNA samples for hybridization with a chip were prepared by in vitro T7 polymerase driven transcription of the amplicons of ORF 22r1, followed by chemical labeling with Cy5 into RNA sample. Ratios between fluorescent hybridization signals from each pair of oligoprobes were used to assess the sequence at each SNP. We evaluated six reference VZV strains and 130 VZV clinical specimens to validate the method. The microarray method accurately identified strains isolated in the US in 2001-2002, representing all major genotypes as determined using more extensive sequence analysis, correctly assigning strains to genotypes E (81.5%), J (3%) and M (15.5%). In addition, a new M variant (M3) was identified.
Hydroxyapatite surface-induced peptide folding.

Herein, we describe the design and surface-binding characterization of a de novo designed peptide, JAK1, which undergoes surface-induced folding at the hydroxyapatite (HA)-solution interface. JAK1 is designed to be unstructured in buffered saline solution, yet undergo HA-induced folding that is largely governed by the periodic positioning of γ-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla) residues within the primary sequence of the peptide. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and analytical ultracentrifugation indicate that the peptide remains unfolded and monomeric in solution under normal physiological conditions; however, CD spectroscopy indicates that in the presence of hydroxyapatite, the peptide avidly binds to the mineral surface adopting a helical structure. Adsorption isotherms indicate nearly quantitative surface coverage and Kd = 310 nM for the peptide−surface binding event. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) coupled with the adsorption isotherm data suggests that JAK1 binds to HA, forming a self-limiting mo...
Elimination of bagassosis in Louisiana paper manufacturing plant workers

Summary The prevalence of bagassosis was investigated in a Louisiana paper mill, which in the past had considerable numbers of workers with the disease. Based on negative clinical histories and the low number of positive serological reactions of the workers' serum with Thermoactinomyces sacchari antigen, it was concluded that bagassosis was no longer present. This was thought to be due to a different method of storage of bagasse, which retards microbial decay and reduces airborne organic dust, and to the increased awareness of plant management resulting in greater safety measures.
Reconsidering caring in the home.

Abstract Section editor’s note: Years ago I came across the writings of Jean Watson and was absolutely awed by the depth and clarity of her thinking in nursing. Her work on caring as the moral ideal of nursing provides fundamental underpinnings of who nurses are and why their services are critical to public health and well-being. Recently, it has been my pleasure to work with Dr. Watson, who has just completed an epilogue for one of my books, Home Care Nursing Practice: Concepts and Application, 3rd edition , which was published this fall by Mosby. It is my privilege to share this work and Jean with you. Robyn Rice, RN-C, PhD(c)
The influence of anionic ligands on stereoisomerism of Ru carbenes and their importance to efficiency and selectivity of catalytic olefin metathesis reactions.

Investigations detailed herein provide insight regarding the mechanism of stereochemical inversion of stereogenic-at-Ru carbene complexes through a nonolefin metathesis-based polytopal rearrangement pathway. Computational analyses (DFT) reveal that there are two key factors that generate sufficient energy barriers that are responsible for the possibility of isolation and characterization of high-energy, but kinetically stable, intermediates: (1) donor–donor interactions that involve the anionic ligands and the strongly electron donating carbene groups and (2) dipolar effects arising from the syn relationship between the anionic groups (iodide and phenoxide). We demonstrate that a Bronsted acid lowers barriers to facilitate isomerization, and that the positive influence of a proton source is the result of its ability to diminish the repulsive electronic interactions originating from the anionic ligands. The implications of the present studies regarding a more sophisticated knowledge of the role of anionic ...
A rapid spectrophotometric method for assessing macrophage phagocytic activity

Abstract The method described provides a rapid and inexpensive in vitro assay of phagocytosis by mononuclear phagocytes. This assay utilizes yeast cells, stained with congo red, as the target particle and quantitation is performed spectrophotometrically. An attractive feature of this assay is that phagocytic activity is assessed using large sample sizes, in this case approximately 1×106 macrophages per sample, resulting in a more accurate evaluation of phagocytosis than assays dependent on microscopic quantitation.
Aircraft measurements of nitrogen and phosphorus in and around the Lake Tahoe Basin: implications for possible sources of atmospheric pollutants to Lake Tahoe.

Atmospheric deposition of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) into Lake Tahoe appears to have been a major factor responsible for the shifting of the lake's nutrient response from N-limited to P-limited. To characterize atmospheric N and P in and around the Lake Tahoe Basin during summer, samples were collected using an instrumented aircraft flown over three locations: the Sierra Nevada foothills east of Sacramento (“low-Sierra”), further east and higher in the Sierra (“mid-Sierra”), and in the Tahoe Basin. Measurements were also made within the smoke plume downwind of an intense forest fire just outside the Tahoe Basin. Samples were collected using a denuder-filter pack sampling system (DFP) and analyzed for gaseous and water-soluble particle components including HNO3/NO3-, NH3 /NH4+, organic N (ON), total N, SRP (soluble reactive phosphate) and total P. The average total gaseous and particulate N concentrations (± 1σ) measured over the low- and mid-Sierra were 660 (± 270) and 630 (± 350) nmol N/m3-air, res...
THE ACCUMULATION OF HOUSEHOLD WEALTH OVER THE LIFE‐CYCLE: A MICRODATA ANALYSIS

In this paper, I investigate the validity of the Modigliani-Brumberg (M-B) model as an explanation of the variation of wealth holdings among households. The model as such, even with the inclusion of estimates of household lifetime earnings, explains only a minute portion of the variation in household wealth. Indeed, for certain groups such as non-white, rural residents, and the low educated, the coefficients of the regression model are insignificant. Moreover, when the top wealth holders are removed from the sample and when non-cash financial and business assets are eliminated from the household portfolios, the explanatory power of the M-B model increases markedly. Essentially, the validity of life-cycle wealth accumulation models must be restricted to the white, urban, educated middle classes and their accumulation of housing, durables, and cash. The rich have very different motives for saving and very different sources of saving, while the poor do not earn sufficient income over their lifetime to accumulate any non-negligible wealth.
Where should the person stop and the information search interface start

Abstract Many users of online and other automated information systems want to take advantage of the speed and power of automated retrieval, while still controlling and directing the steps of the search themselves. They do not want the system to take over and carry out the search entirely for them. Yet the objective of much of current theory and experimentation in information retrieval systems and interfaces is to design systems in which the user has either no or only reactive involvement with the search process. It is argued here that the advanced information retrieval research community is missing an opportunity to design systems that are in better harmony with the actual preferences of many users—sophisticated systems that provide an optimal combination of searcher control and system retrieval power. The user may be provided effective means of directing the search if capabilities specific to the information retrieval process, that is, strategic behaviors normally associated with information searching, are incorporated into the interface. There are many questions concerning (1) the degree of user vs. system involvement in the search, and (2) the size, or chunking, of activities; that is, how much and what type of activity the user should be able to direct the system to do at once. These two dimensions are analyzed and a number of configurations of system capability that combine user and system control are presented and discussed. In the process, the concept of the information search stratagem is introduced, and particular attention is paid to the provision of strategic, as opposed to purely procedural capabilities for the searcher. Finally, certain types of user-system relationship are selected as deserving particular attention in future information retrieval system design, and arguments are made to support the recommendations.
Control of pH of Neoprene Latex

Abstract One of the major contributions to the development of the use of rubber latex in manufacturing processes has been the introduction of methods for regulating the pH of the latex compounds. On the basis of this knowledge the coagulating dip process, the use of heat-sensitive latex mixes, and the use of gelling agents have become standardized and accepted methods of manufacturing rubber goods. Most of the techniques used in rubber latex manufacturing processes have been applied to the alkaline Neoprene latices, such as Types 571 and 60. However, in the case of the gelling agents the methods normally used to control coagulation of natural-rubber latex do not always apply to Neoprene latex. An investigation was made of the effect of pH reduction on the reaction between Neoprene latex and gelling agents, and also of methods for the control of this reaction. The effectiveness of the gelling agents as coagulants arises from the delayed formation of hydrogen ions or multivalent metallic ions in the latex w...
Gravitational wave astrometry for rapidly rotating neutron stars and estimation of their distances

I discuss an astrometric timing effect on data analysis of continuous gravitational waves from rapidly rotating isolated neutron stars. Special attention is directed to the possibility of determining their distances by measuring the curvature of the wave fronts. I predict that if continuous gravitational waves from an unknown neutron star with a stable rotation are detected around 1 kHz within 1/3 yr by initial LIGO detectors and the ellipticity parameter {epsilon} is smaller than 10{sup -6}, the distance r to the source can be estimated with relative error {delta}r/r of {approx}10% by using the broadband configuration of advanced LIGO detectors over 3 years. By combining the observed amplitude of the waves with the estimated distance, information on the parameter {epsilon} can be obtained purely through gravitational wave measurements.
Separation of Safety Effects of Multiple Improvements by Alternate Empirical Bayes Methods

Empirical Bayes (EB) before-after evaluations provide the average safety effectiveness estimate for safety improvement treatments that have been implemented on a group of sites. When multiple improvements have been installed at each site, a single effectiveness estimate is provided for the combination of improvements. To obtain individual safety effectiveness estimates for the improvements by the current EB method, separate studies of each improvement must be conducted. Alternative EB methods may be applied, however, when sites that have the combined improvements installed and sites that have all but the desired improvement to be estimated are both available. This paper examines the safety evaluation methodology, safety effect estimators, and statistical test of significance for these alternative EB methods. The recent study of the safety edge treatment is used to illustrate these methods. Recommendations include the conduct of individual EB analyses for study sites with and without the desired treatment ...
Reynolds Equation for Spherical Bearings

Osborne Reynolds' classical paper on the theory' of lubrication Reynolds (1886) produced the generalized Reynolds equation. For spherical bearing applications, the generalized Reynolds equation is transformed in order to obtain useful results when the hemispherical shell is not in a horizontal position. A new film thickness expression is also presented. These transformations permit the determination of pressure distributions and fluid film thickness for any orientation of the hemispherical shell including the horizontal position, for which the conventional description of Reynolds equation is well suited. The resulting equation in two-dimensional form, for an incompressible, variable viscosity fluid, with upper and lower sliding surfaces, in spherical coordinates, contains the inclination angle β, which accounts for non-horizontal positions of the shell.
Fibrin Gel as an Injectable Biodegradable Scaffold and Cell Carrier for Tissue Engineering

Due to the increasing needs for organ transplantation and a universal shortage of donated tissues, tissue engineering emerges as a useful approach to engineer functional tissues. Although different synthetic materials have been used to fabricate tissue engineering scaffolds, they have many limitations such as the biocompatibility concerns, the inability to support cell attachment, and undesirable degradation rate. Fibrin gel, a biopolymeric material, provides numerous advantages over synthetic materials in functioning as a tissue engineering scaffold and a cell carrier. Fibrin gel exhibits excellent biocompatibility, promotes cell attachment, and can degrade in a controllable manner. Additionally, fibrin gel mimics the natural blood-clotting process and self-assembles into a polymer network. The ability for fibrin to cure in situ has been exploited to develop injectable scaffolds for the repair of damaged cardiac and cartilage tissues. Additionally, fibrin gel has been utilized as a cell carrier to protect cells from the forces during the application and cell delivery processes while enhancing the cell viability and tissue regeneration. Here, we review the recent advancement in developing fibrin-based biomaterials for the development of injectable tissue engineering scaffold and cell carriers.
Reading Errors following Right Hemisphere Injection of Sodium Amobarbital

Abstract The role of the nondominant hemisphere in reading is controversial. We characterized the reading errors made by 64 right-handed adults with complex partial seizures (half with seizure foci on the right and half on the left), after right hemisphere injection of sodium amobarbital. Subjects were presented with 20 six-word sentences and all were found to have speech associated with the left hemisphere only. A variety of reading errors occurred, most of which fell under the syndrome of “neglect dyslexia” including deletions and substitutions of whole words on the left side of a line of text as well as within-word neglect errors. The nature of these errors indicated that they may have been caused by an interaction between a peripheral processing deficit and more centrally located conceptual knowledge of linguistic structure. Other errors could be attributed to a general decrease in attentional mechanisms. Neglect errors at the level of the sentence occurred in the absence of neglect errors at the level of the word although the converse was not true. This suggests that the latter may represent a more severe deficit in the mechanism that causes the former. A double dissociation existed between single word neglect dyslexia errors and “visual” errors, indicating separate processing mechanisms.
IL-2 immunotoxin denileukin diftitox reduces regulatory T cells and enhances vaccine-mediated T-cell immunity

CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells have been implicated in the lack of effective antitumor immunity. Denileukin diftitox (DAB389IL-2), a fusion protein of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and diphtheria toxin, provides a means of targeting Treg cells. In this study, we examined (1) the effect of denileukin diftitox on the deletion of Treg cells in various lymphoid compartments and (2) the dose scheduling of denileukin diftitox in combination with a recombinant poxviral vaccine to enhance antigen-specific immune responses. Treg cells in spleen, peripheral blood, and bone marrow of normal C57BL/6 mice were variously reduced after a single intraperitoneal injection of denileukin diftitox; the reduction was evident within 24 hours and lasted approximately 10 days. Injection of denileukin diftitox 1 day before vaccination enhanced antigen-specific T-cell responses above levels induced by vaccination alone. These studies show for the first time in a murine model (1) the differential effects of denileukin diftitox on Treg cells in different cellular compartments, (2) the advantage of combining denileukin diftitox with a vaccine to enhance antigen-specific T-cell immune responses, (3) the lack of inhibition by denileukin diftitox of host immune responses directed against a live viral vector, and (4) the importance of dose scheduling of denileukin diftitox when used in combination with a vaccine.
Laboratory growth and metabolism of the winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus from hatching through metamorphosis at three temperatures

Growth and metabolism of the winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus were studied in the laboratory at 2°, 5° and 8°C. Dry-weight determinations of growth demonstrated significant direct regressions of growth on temperature. Mean, daily specific growth rates were 10.1%/day at 80°C, 5.8%/day at 50°C, and 2.6%/day at 2°C. Time to metamorphosis was 49 days at 8°C and 80 days at 5°C. Larvae did not survive to metamorphosis at 2°C. Absolute values of routine metabolism expressed in μl of oxygen consumed regressed on body weight were best described by a third-degree polynomial. Larval routine metabolism increased from hatching to metamorphosis, at which time it declined before again increasing. Temperature directly affected routine metabolism. Metabolism on a unit-weight basis decreased with increasing size and was also directly influenced by temperature.
Structural insights into the coordination and extraction of Pb(II) by disulfonamide ligands derived from o-phenylenediamine.

The o-phenylenediamine-derived disulfonamide ligands 1 and 2 complex and efficiently extract Pb(II) from water into 1,2-dichloroethane via ion-exchange, in combination with 2,2‘-bipyridine (97.5% and 95.0%, respectively, for 1:1 ligand-to-Pb ratios). The corresponding Pb(II)−sulfonamido binary complexes of ligands 1 and 2 (3 and 4, respectively), and ternary complexes with 2,2‘-bipyridine (5 and 6, respectively), were isolated and characterized. 1H NMR spectra of the organic phases after extraction show the formation of ternary Pb−sulfonamido−bipy complexes. X-ray characterization of 3, 4, and the ternary complex 5 consistently demonstrates four primary coordination sites and a stereochemically active lone pair on Pb. The X-ray structure of 3 shows a pseudo trigonal bipyramidal configuration on Pb, with the lone pair occupying one of the equatorial sites, and the formation of an unusual “hemidirected” coordination polymer via axial SO−Pb coordination. The same axial SO−Pb coordination pattern with two DMS...
From Mangos to Manufacturing: Uneven Development and Its Impact on Social Well-Being in the Dominican Republic.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have been trying to help developing countries speed up economic growth in order to help eradicate poverty. In the last two decades these policies in the Domin- ican Republic have caused rapid and severe changes. Over the last two centuries Dominican culture has faced numerous challenges including a shift from an indi- genous subsistence society in balance with nature to an agrarian-based economy. Now a third wave is impacting the Dominican Republic, based on a rapid shift to a manufacturing and service economy. This current shift has led to repriorit- izing limited national funds for economic infrastructure, at the expense of cuts in public services in such key areas such as education, health, and water. The literature suggests such structural adjustments do not benefit all persons equally. Of specific interest are those left behind who reside in rural places and work in traditional economic sectors especially agriculture. The goal of this study was to compare the well-being of female heads of households (employed and self employed) in agriculture to the male and female heads of households in the other categories of employment in the Dominican Republic (professional or technical manager, service industry, clerical position, sales, skilled laborer, unskilled labor, and agriculture both as an employee and self-employed). The researchers anticip- ated that those households employed in agriculture would have lower well-being scores than those employed in other economic sectors. Of particular concern were female heads of household working in agriculture, because they have been most affected due to gender discrimination, cultural bias, lack of access to land, credit, and training while still being responsible for reproductive labor. The results show that those that are working in agriculture have received very little benefit from the structural adjustments that have been made in the economy compared to other sectors (in terms of the sectors of employment). However, women in this circum- stance seem to be equally bad off as men. The evidence for this hypothesis is far from conclusive. The data may support the fact that the aperture of employment markets such as free trade zones and employment are actually improving the women's placein the society by givingthem morecontrolover their ownfinancial resources. Nonetheless these findings suggest there is a need to invest in agrarian communities because they are an important key in the fight against poverty. In turn this may help to prevent further urban migration, provide food security, and provide a bastion for preserving Dominican culture and heritage.
Multiple personality and hypnosis: The first one hundred years

The Enlightenment brought with it a greater scientific interest in and attention to a wider range of human behavior. In 1789, there emerged during the French Revolution a case of what would be today called multiple personality disorder which came under the care of a local physician, Dr. Eberhard Gmelin. Gmelin had only recently become interested in mesmerism and tried this procedure with this patient. So started an ongoing and gradually increasing exploration of the role of hypnosis in multiple personalities. This paper contributes to the historical background of such psychodynamic concepts as dissociation, splitting, repression, consciousness, subconscious, and unconscious.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of Jet-Injected Lidocaine to Reduce Venipuncture Pain for Young Children.

Study objective The J-Tip (National Medical Products Inc, Irvine, CA) uses air instead of a needle to push lidocaine into the skin. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated its use for venipuncture in young children. We determine whether the J-Tip decreased venipuncture pain in young children compared with vapocoolant spray. Methods Children aged 1 to 6 years were randomized into 3 groups: intervention (J-Tip), control (vapocoolant spray), and sham (vapocoolant spray and pop of an empty J-Tip). The procedure was videotaped and scored with the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) tool at 3 points; baseline, before approach; device, at J-Tip deployment; and at venipuncture. The FLACC tool was scored 0 (none) to 10 (severe). Comparisons of pain scores over time were made with the generalized estimating equation. Venipuncture success and adverse effects were assessed and compared with χ 2 . Results Two hundred five children enrolled: intervention 96, control 53, and sham 56. There were no between-group differences in baseline characteristics. There was no mean change in pain scores from device to venipuncture in the intervention group (0.26; 95% confidence interval [CI] –0.31 to 0.82), but there was an increase in pain in the control (2.82; 95% CI 1.91 to 3.74) and sham (1.68; 95% CI 0.83 to 2.52) groups. This change was greater for the control and sham compared to the intervention group. There was no difference in venipuncture success between groups. No severe adverse events occurred. Minor adverse events were the same between groups. Conclusion Use of the J-Tip for children aged 1 to 6 years reduced venipuncture pain compared with vapocoolant spray or sham treatment.
Approximation of Poles and Branch Points of Solutions to Certain Nonlinear Differential Equations Using Modified Piecewise Pade Approximations

A simple method is presented to numerically approximate the location of poles and branch point singularities of solutions to certain nonlinear differential equations. The general method uses a modified piecewise-Pade type of approximation. The formulas greatly simplify in the case of second order nonlinear differential equations. Several numerical examples are presented which demonstrate the ease of implementation and efficiency of the methods.
Evaluation of Kinetic Light Scattering as an Approach to the Measurement of Specific Proteins with the Centrifugal Analyzer. II. Theoretical Considerations

Development of centrifugal analyzers capable of making light-scattering measurements has prompted the investigation of the application of this type of instrumentation to the measurement of specific proteins. Investigation of antigen/antibody complex dimension and the kinetics of the IgG/anti-IgG reaction as followed by light scattering are examined in relation to improved analytical methodology. The effect of nonspecific protein on the reaction rate has been investigated for IgM, and data are presented that provide insight into the mechanism of the effect of periodic mixing.
THE REAL EFFECTS OF POLITICAL UNCERTAINTY: ELECTIONS AND INVESTMENT SENSITIVITY TO STOCK PRICES *

We show that political uncertainty surrounding elections can affect how corporate investment responds to stock prices. In a large panel of elections around the world, investment is 40% less sensitive to stock prices during election years compared to non-election years. The decrease in investment-to-price sensitivity appears to be due to stock prices becoming less informative during election years making them noisier signals for managers to follow. Further, the drop in investment-to-price sensitivity is larger when election results are less certain, in countries with higher corruption, large state ownership, and weak standards of disclosure by politicians. Finally, we show that election uncertainty leads to inefficient capital allocation, reducing company performance.
Utilization Of Digital Image Data For Computer-aided Diagnosis

A number of computerized schemes being developed for computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) in our laboratory are reviewed. In distinguishing between normal and abnormal lungs with interstitial infiltrates in chest images, the computerized classification method provided the ROC curve that is comparable to or superior to that obtained by an average radiologist. Our computerized detection schemes indicated truepositive detection rate of approximately 70% for subtle lung nodules in chest radiographs and 90% for subtle clustered microcalcifications in mammograms, although several false positives were detected in each image. The automatically computed outlines of the heart shadows in chest radiographs were very similar to the contours traced by radiologists, and were used to obtain parameters related to the size and area of the projected heart. By using an iterative deconvolution technique, opacified vessels larger than 0.5 mm in DSA images were measured with an accuracy of approximately 0.1mm. The vascular structures in angiograms were tracked accurately and automatically by using a double-square-box region-of-search method.
IDLI, AN INDIAN FERMENTED FOOD: A REVIEW

Idli is a fermented food of India which is prepared by steaming a fermented black gram (Phaseolus mungo L.) and rice (Oryza sativa L.) batter. It makes an important contribution to the diet as a source of protein, calories and vitamins, especially B-complex vitamins, compared to the raw unfermented ingredients. It can be produced locally and used as a dietary supplement in developing countries to treat people suffering from protein calorie malnutrition and kwashiorkor. Other legumes such as soybeans and Great Northern beans could be substituted for black gram in preparation of a idli. Further research is needed regarding the increase of methionine content during idli fermentation, by which path way methionine is synthesized, and identification and isolation of microorganisms responsible for methionine production or synthesis.
Sonic hedgehog Cascade Is Required for Penile Postnatal Morphogenesis, Differentiation, and Adult Homeostasis

The penis is unique in that it undergoes morphogenesis and differentiation primarily in the postnatal period. For complex structures such as the penis to be made from undifferentiated precursor cells, proliferation, differentiation, and patterning are required. This process involves coordinated activity of multiple signals. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) forms part of a regulatory cascade that is essential for growth and morphogenesis of many tissues. It is hypothesized that the penis utilizes regulatory mechanisms similar to those of the limb and accessory sex organs to pattern penile postnatal morphogenesis and differentiation and that the Shh cascade is critical to this process. To test this hypothesis, Shh, BMP-4, Ptc, and Hoxa-10 localization and function were examined in Sprague-Dawley rat penes by means of quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. These genes were expressed in the penis during postnatal morphogenesis in a spatially and temporally restricted manner in adjacent layers of the corpora cavernosal sinusoids. The function of Shh and BMP-4 is to establish and maintain corpora cavernosal sinusoids. The data suggest that Ptc and Hoxa-10 are also important in penile morphogenesis. The continuing function of Shh and targets of its signaling in maintaining penile homeostasis in the adult is significant because disruption of Shh signaling affects erectile function. This is the first report that demonstrates the significant role that Shh plays in establishing and maintaining penile homeostasis and how this relates to erectile function. These studies provide valuable insight that may be applied to improve treatment options for erectile dysfunction.
Particle Filtering for Target Tracking with Mobile Sensors

Recent progress in distributed robotics and low power embedded systems has led to development of mobile sensor networks. Controlled mobility, moving sensors intentionally, enables a new set of possibilities in wireless sensor networks and facilitates many applications in signal processing areas such as target tracking. In this paper we consider the problem of tracking a target using three mobile sensors that measure the received signal strength (RSS) from the target. We propose the use of particle filtering where the positioning of the mobile sensor is based on the predicted target's positions. In deciding how to deploy the sensors, we have used the Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB) that we have derived for our scheme. The performance of the method is investigated by simulations and compared to tracking by traditional static sensor network.
Arthropods Associated with Carrion in a Salt Marsh Habitat in Southeastern Florida

Abstract Few studies have assessed arthropods associated with carrion in salt marsh environments. Arthropods attracted to animal carcasses in a salt marsh environment were surveyed in southeastern Florida during four seasons from September 2009 to July 2010. A total of 2,324 arthropod specimens were collected from carcasses (coyote, opossum, raccoon, bobcat, and otter) and 4 orders, 23 families, 28 genera, and 24 species were identified. Specimens were most frequently encountered from the order Diptera (85% of total), and Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Musca domestica (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae) represented 50% of specimens collected. We observed seasonal variation in abundance of dipterans. The information presented here may be useful for future studies identifying arthropods having wildlife forensic entomology significance within subtropical Florida salt marsh habitats.
Linearly constrained MEG beamformers for MVAR modeling of cortical interactions

Among the many methods for modeling cortical interactions using EEG and MEG data, multivariate autoregressive (MVAR) functional connectivity measures have the advantage of providing parametric directional and frequency specific information. While MVAR models have been successfully applied to depth electrode data, they are more difficult to use with external EEG and MEG data since they are not robust to the cross-talk between cortical regions that may arise because of the limited spatial resolution of EEG/MEG inverse procedures. Here we describe a modified beamforming approach for processing EEG/MEG data, designed to eliminate cross-talk between cortical regions. The output of the beamformer is then used to estimate the coefficients of an MVAR model of cortical interactions. We illustrate this method using simulated dynamic MEG data.