cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrochemistry and staging in La 2 CuO 4+δ

Measurements are reported of the time dependence of the current during electrochemical oxidation and reduction at a fixed voltage of single crystals and ceramic samples of ${\mathrm{La}}_{2}{\mathrm{CuO}}_{4+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}.$ Staging peaks in neutron measurements of the single crystals together with the electrochemical measurements and magnetization measurements confirm that stage $n=6$ corresponds to $\ensuremath{\delta}=0.055\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05,$ the high-\ensuremath{\delta} side of the oxygen-rich--oxygen-poor miscibility gap. Furthermore, stage $n=4$ occurs at a value of \ensuremath{\delta} consistent with $\ensuremath{\delta}\ensuremath{\propto}{n}^{\ensuremath{-}1}.$ For ceramic samples it is shown that two different superconducting compounds are formed depending on the oxidation voltage used.
Stability of Second Order Differential Delay Equations with Constant Coefficients

For a general second order linear differential delay equation, necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the zero solution to be asymptotically stable independent of delay.
Thermomechatronics of power electronic packages

The coupled effects of mechanical stress and thermal performance on the electrical function of power electronics are combined within a new analytical framework designated thermomechatronics. The result is a new approach to analyzing the progressive performance degradation of the power electronics owing to the growth of thermomechanically induced fatigue cracks within the package bonds and interconnects. The present analysis focuses on relating the consequences of such cracks on the thermal resistance of the package, which governs the junction temperature of the electronics for fixed power dissipation. The rate of track growth during operation is then analyzed based on closed-form analytical solutions combined with physically based failure modes for the relevant materials. Finally, the manner in which the present results may be integrated with conventional circuit simulation tools is described.
A method for utilizing diploid/dominance in genetic search

A method is proposed for implementing diploid/dominance in genetic search. Both diploid strings, in a single gene example are evaluated to produce two intermediate phenotypes which then determine dominance. Experimental results indicate that changing global optima are accurately identified and followed. The method is problem independent and can be readily extended to a polyploid chromosome structure. >
Human Umbilical Cord Blood Mononuclear Cells in the Treatment of Acute Myocardial Infarction

Acute coronary occlusion with myocardial infarction is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world and, according to the World Health Organization, it will be the major cause of death in the world by the year 2020. 1 Each year more than one million Americans experience an acute myocardial infarction and approximately 400,000 die from acute complications of myocardial infarction. 2 In addition, every year more than 400,000 Americans develop new onset congestive heart failure. 2 A critical determinant of the prognosis of every patient with ischemic heart disease is the size of their myocardial infarction, which directly determines the magnitude of heart dilation, the degree of impairment of heart pump function, the development of heart failure, and, ultimately, the prognosis of the patient.
Increased Temperature of Malignant Urinary Bladder Tumors In Vivo: The Application of a New Method Based on a Catheter Technique

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the existence of any thermal difference between malignant tumors and inflammatory benign lesions of the human urinary bladder and to determine whether it correlates with tumor angiogenesis quantification. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A new method, developed in our institute, is introduced to detect temperature in human urinary bladder, in vivo. This method is based on a thermography catheter. We calculated the differences of the temperature of the solid tumor and of a normal area (ΔT) on 20 subjects (mean age, 72.5 years; 95% confidence interval [CI], 68.5 to 76.4). According to the biopsy histology, Eight (40%) patients had benign tumors, and 12 (60%) had malignant tumors. RESULTS: We found significant differences of ΔT between patients with benign and malignant tumor (P < .001). Also, differences were found for the mean values of angiogenesis level between malignant and benign tumors (P = .0261), and a moderated positive correlation was estimated between the de...
Identification of Novel Nonsteroidal Compounds as Substrates or Inhibitors of hASBT

ABSTRACT: A prodrug approach that employs the human apical sodium dependent bile acid transporter (hASBT) for absorption requires a recognition moiety for hASBT. Bile acids are natural ligands for hASBT, but are hormones with high molecular weight, such that a recognition moiety that is not a bile acid may be advantageous. The objective was to identify nonsteroidal small molecules that could potentially serve as promoieties in the design of prodrugs that target hASBT. Three searches for bile acid analogues were conducted and it involved molecular fingerprints as the computational tools for similarity searching, as well as traditional medicinal chemistry pattern recognition. Sixty-three compounds were tested using a hASBT–Madin–Darby canine kidney cell monolayer model. Twenty-three of these compounds were found to be hASBT inhibitors and represent novel hASBT inhibitors. Three were selected for hASBT uptake studies. Two were substrates, which represent the first reported nonsteroidal substrates of hASBT. Interestingly, each compound lacked a negative charge. These compounds promise to serve as leads to identify hASBT recognition moieties in a prodrug approach to target hASBT to increase drug absorption. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.
Incentives, pay, and performance: a study of Australian employees

The paper analyses the determinants of self-reported work effort using a 1988 survery of Australian employees. While controlling for the endogeneity of the firm's choice of incentives and pay, it is found that direct incentive schemes have predicted effects, and the efficiency wage hypothesis is supported: pay and work effort are positively correlated. Two efficiency wage models are tested: Akerlof's gift exchange model, and work discipline arguments regarding monitoring difficulties and threats of dismissal. The latter argument is broadly consistent with the data.
Speciation and cysteine-simplified physiological-based extraction technique (SBET) bioaccesibility of heavy metals in biosolids

Cysteine residues on proteins have a high affinity for metals yet formulations used to determine bioaccessibility do not contain cysteine or thiol-containing molecules. As a result, we used a cysteine-simplified physiological-based extraction technique (SBET) and, the conventional glycine-SBET to determine bioaccesibility of selected heavy metals in biosolids and compared the data. We also determined speciation of the selected metals in the biosolids to assess further the health risk posed the use of biosolids as a soil amendment in agricultural soils. Samples, including a certified reference standard were analyzed using x-ray fluorescence and flame atomic absorption. Bioaccessibility was higher in cysteine-SBET than glycine-SBET, and regression data show that the two methods give different sets of results. We proposed a bioaccessibility model that involves cysteine and the hydrogen ion complementing each other to dissolve metals. The model also includes a three mode-bioavailability mechanism: absorption of free metal ions; ligand-mediated transport of metal ions from solution; and ligand-mediated transport of metal ions directly from the biosolids into the cell. Low pH in the gut increases bioaccessibility but reduces bioavailability due to protonation of receptor ligands. With the exception of Fe, bioaccessibility was directly correlated to the sequential extraction availability which followed the order: Mn(90.3 %)>Zn(50.3 %)>Cd(26.5 %)>Cu(24.9 %)>Fe(0.367 %). We calculated bioavailability from bioaccessibility using literature estimates of percent bioavailabilities. The order of abundance of the analyzed metals in the biosolids was as follows: Fe>Mn>Zn>Cu>Pb>Cd.
Apathy in late-life depression: common, persistent, and disabling.

Objective The aims of this study were to examine: (1) the relationship between apathy and disability in late-life depression, and (2) the functional significance of improvement in apathy following escitalopram treatment in terms of its relationship to disability. Methods Subjects were 71 non-demented elderly with non-psychotic major depression. After a 2-week single-blind placebo period, subjects who had Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) ≥18 received escitalopram 10 mg daily for 12 weeks. Apathy and disability were assessed with the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES) and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale II (WHODAS), respectively. These measures and the HDRS were administered at baseline and again following 12 weeks of treatment. Results At baseline, 38% of depressed subjects had significant apathy (AES ≥36.5). Severity of apathy at baseline significantly correlated with severity of disability. In a multivariate regression model, baseline severity of apathy, but not the overall depressive syndrome (HDRS), significantly correlated with baseline disability. Following escitalopram treatment, improvement in apathy significantly correlated with improvement in disability measures, while change in the rest of the depressive syndrome did not. The overall change in apathy and disability in response to escitalopram treatment was significant but small. Conclusion Apathy is common in late-life depression and is associated with disability above and beyond the influence of other depressive symptoms. Given the strong relationship between apathy and disability, understanding the neurobiology of apathy and developing treatments for apathy may improve the functional outcomes of late-life depression.
Valganciclovir is an effective prophylaxis for cytomegalovirus disease in liver transplant recipients.

Abstract Objectives Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality among solid organ transplant recipients. Prophylaxis using valganciclovir (VGCV) in orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and its use is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of VGCV in CMV prophylaxis in OLT recipients. Methods We carried out a retrospective, single-centre study including all OLT procedures performed during 2005–2008. Patients with early death (at ≤30 days), without CMV serology or prophylaxis, or with follow-up of Results The overall incidence of CMV disease was 6% ( n = 9). The ganciclovir (GCV) and VGCV groups had similar incidences of CMV disease (4.6% vs. 7.0%; P = 0.4) and similar distributions of disease presentation (CMV syndrome vs. tissue-invasive CMV; P = 0.4). Incidences of CMV infection, as well as disease presentation, were similar between the high-risk (CMV D+/R−) and non-high-risk groups ( P = 0.16). Although acute cellular rejection occurred more frequently in patients who developed CMV disease ( P = 0.005), overall survival in these patients did not differ from that in patients who did not develop CMV infection ( P = 0.5). Conclusions Valganciclovir is an effective antiviral for the prevention of CMV disease in liver transplant recipients. Our data support its use in high-risk OLT patients.
THE FORMAL STRUCTURE OF METAPHYSICS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

: This article considers how the formal structure of metaphysical thought is displayed in Oscar Wilde's Importance of Being Earnest. One frequent aim of metaphysics is to understand the world as a whole. We cannot gain such a global vantage point without separating ourselves from all the particular meanings things have for us within the world. But we start within the world, and so can only proceed on the basis of those particular meanings. Consequently we can only separate ourselves from them if they work to cancel themselves in favor of the global understanding. When the separate range of meanings is established, however, it and the world it aims to understand no longer have any meaning for each other. Metaphysics therefore succeeds by establishing and canceling its relevant meaning, all at once. This self-canceling moment or process of thought constitutes a grasp of the world as a whole. It also allows different understandings of reality as a whole to recognize and so enter into dialogue with each other. The climactic moments of The Importance of Being Earnest are structured as a map of this insight-granting process of the self-cancellation of a global range of meanings. That is, they express the formal structure of metaphysical thought.
Narrative, Identity, and the Politics of Exclusion: Social Change and the Gay and Lesbian Life Course

The social and political context of sexual identity development in the United States has changed dramatically since the mid twentieth century. Same-sex attracted individuals have long needed to reconcile their desire with policies of exclusion, ranging from explicit outlaws on same-sex activity to exclusion from major social institutions such as marriage. This paper focuses on the implications of political exclusion for the life course of individuals with same-sex desire through the analytic lens of narrative. Using illustrative evidence from a study of autobiographies of gay men spanning a 60-year period and a study of the life stories of contemporary same-sex attracted youth, we detail the implications of historic silence, exclusion, and subordination for the life course.
Enhancement of Fatigue Crack Growth and Fracture Resistance in Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn Through Microstructural Modification

Significant enhancement in fatigue crack propagation resistance and plane strain fracture toughness was obtained in commercial purity Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn through microstructural modification. Alloys studied were in the form of 25.4 mm-thick plate with interstitial oxygen contents of 0.20 and 0.17 weight percent, respectively. Heat treatments were chosen to provide widely varied microstructures; these included a mill anneal, recrystallization anneal and a beta anneal. The most beneficial heat treatment for improving these crack tolerance properties was found to be the beta anneal. However, the beta anneal resulted in yield strength reductions of 9 to 14 percent, from levels associated with the original mill anneal. The recrystallization anneal provided significant enhancement of plane strain fracture toughness and marginal improvement in fatigue crack propagation resistance with negligible loss of yield strength.
Anti‐Drug Crusades in Twentieth‐Century China: Nationalism, History, and State Building

Anti-Drug Crusades in Twentieth-Century China: Nationalism, History, and State Building. Zhou Yongming. Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield Publishers,1999. ix. 195 pp., tables, photographs, notes, bibliography, index.
Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics, Nanophotonics, and Quantum Communication with Atomically Doped Carbon Nanotubes

The latest theoretical studies of the near-field electrodynamic properties of atomically doped carbon nanotubes are reviewed. It has been shown that, similar to semiconductor microcavities and photonic band-gap materials, carbon nanotubes may qualitatively change the character of the atom–electromagnetic-field interactions, yielding strong atom–field coupling and the formation of quasi-one-dimensional atomic polariton states. A scheme for entangling such polaritons has been considered, and small-diameter metallic nanotubes have been shown to result in sizable amounts of the two-quantum bit (qubit) atomic entanglement with no damping for sufficiently long times. This challenges novel applications of atomically doped carbon nanotubes in quantum information science.
A review of instruments and methods for dosimetry in space

Abstract Instruments and methods recently used for space radiation dosimetry are reviewed for the purposes of comparison and reference. Passive detection methods mentioned include track-etch, luminescent, nuclear emulsion, and metal foil detectors. These can provide a reliable source of data for all types of radiation, but often require processing that cannot occur in space. Experimental methods of LET determination using TLDs, such as the high temperature peak ratio (HTR) method, are also discussed. Portable readout passive detectors including Pille, MOSFET, and bubble detector systems provide a novel alternative to traditional passive detectors, but research is more limited and their widespread use has yet to be established. Active detectors including DOSTEL, CPDS, RRMD-III, TEPC, R-16, BBND, and the Liulin series are examined for technical details. These instruments allow the determination of dose in real-time, and some can determine LET of incident particles by measuring energy deposition over a known path-length, but size and power consumption limit their practical use for dosimetry. Improved neutron dosimetry and development of a small active or portable readout personnel dosimeter capable of accurate LET determination are important steps for managing the effects of long-term exposure to the space radiation environment.
Examining intentions to use CoQ10 amongst breast cancer patients.

Objective To determine factors that influence breast cancer patients' intentions to supplement with CoQ10. Methods A survey based upon the expanded rational expectations intentions model was completed by breast cancer outpatients (N=160). Results A significantly positive relationship existed between referent other (the influence specific people have in terms of an individual's behavior) and subjective norm (subject's perception of how people view a behavior). Beliefs, referent other, attitude, and subjective norm did have a significant effect on intention to use CoQ10. Conclusions Health practitioners may address supplementation with breast cancer patients with a better understanding of what factors impact supplement use.
Division and conjugation in Nyctotherus cordiformis (EHr.) Stein (Protozoa, Ciliata) with special reference to the nuclear phenomena

A cytological study of the complete life cycle of Nyctotherus cordiformis (Ehr.) Stein, a heterotrichous ciliate from the large intestine of tadpole and adult Hyla versicolor hosts is presented. In division a partial dedifferentiation of parental ingestatory structures occurs, then redifferentiation, to be retained by the anterior daughter. For the posterior daughter, the ingestatory apparatus arises de novo. In conjugation, two ciliates fuse along their peristomes. The macronucles undergoes complete fragmentation while the micronucleus divides three times. The first pregamic division results in two micronuclear products; the second division, four micronuclear products, three of which degenerate. The remaining product enters into the third pregamic division to produce the two functional, migratory and stationary, pronuclei. Interchange of migratory pronuclei follows at the fused anterior ends of the conjugants to form the amphinucleus which divides once to produce the micronucleus and the macronuclear anlage. Development and behavior of the unusual macronuclear anlage (‘spireme-ball’ of Stein and Schneider) is described for the first time. At the end of the conjugation process, ingestatory structures of each conjugant completely dedifferentiate while a complete new set arises de novo posterior to the old ones. In this case, conjugation occurs only in tadpoles which are metamorphosing into frogs. Conjugation here is interpreted as an effort made by the ciliates to overcome a physiological crisis during the drastic host transformation changes.
Positive definite lattices of rank at most 8

Abstract We give a short uniqueness proof for the E8 root lattice, and in fact for all positive definite unimodular lattices of rank up to 8. Our proof is done with elementary arguments, mainly these: (1) invariant theory for integer matrices; (2) an upper bound for the minimum of nonzero norms (either of the elementary bounds of Hermite or Minkowski will do). We make no use of p-adic completions, mass formulas or modular forms.
Cell lines of hyperdiploid myeloma, are we there yet?

We read with great interest the recent paper describing the establishment of stroma-dependent myeloma cell lines, in particular two from hyperdiploid multiple myeloma (H-MM) patients (Li et al, 2007). As there are currently no bona fide H-MM cell lines, the author’s efforts in establishing these two hyperdiploid cell lines are extremely laudable. However, closer inspection of the genetic and molecular characteristics of the two hyperdiploid cell lines suggests a number of atypical features. Firstly, both hyperdiploid cell lines have informative karyotype and have the transcription profile of the proliferation (PR) group, based on a recently reported molecular classification (Zhan et al, 2006). Previous studies have shown that informative cytogenetics can be obtained from only about 30% of all patients (Fonseca et al, 2004) and patients with an informative karyotype have a significantly higher plasma cell labelling index, a marker for proliferation (Rajkumar et al, 1999). In the study by Zhan et al (2006), the PR group comprised tumours of different genetic subtypes that are proliferative and associated with the worst survival. Second, in the LD line, besides the typical trisomies of chromosomes 5 and 9, the karyotype and spectral karyotyping results also showed trisomies of chromosomes 6, 8 and 20. In a previous analysis of 469 informative hyperdiploid karyotypes, these trisomies were seen in 20%, 10% and 12% of cases respectively. Furthermore, in this analysis, these trisomies were associated with more complex karyotypes, suggesting that they occur late during clonal evolution (Chng et al, 2006). In an array comparative genomic hybridization analysis of 103 cases of H-MM, where the majority of cases do not have informative karyotypes, trisomy of chromosomes 6, 8 and 20 were seen in 14%, 7% and 7% respectively (W. J. Chng, unpublished observations). In comparison, trisomies of chromosome 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 15 and 19, were each seen in excess of 50% of cases when studied by both methods. Third, in the CF cell line, gene expression level of TP53 and RB1 was very low (in the lowest 5–10 percentile of expression in the total therapy II dataset), and may well have deletion of these genes. In fact, in a previous study from the same group, low expression (lowest 10 percentile) of TP53 was associated with 17p13 deletion and a significantly worse prognosis (Xiong et al, 2006). Overall, these features suggest that the H-MM cases from which these cell lines were developed are atypical, clonally advanced and more aggressive subtypes of H-MM. Indeed, recent studies have identified molecular heterogeneity within H-MM and identified subtypes with poorer prognosis (Carrasco et al, 2006; Chng et al, 2007). Therefore, we still have some way to go before developing cell lines from typical cases of hyperdiploid MM. This will be extremely important in advancing biological and therapeutic studies in this most common genetic subtype of MM.
Detection of Helicobacter pylori in water by direct PCR

Aims: This paper demonstrates a rapid, simple method for the detection of Helicobacter pylori in water that eliminates the need for recovery of cells or DNA extraction prior to PCR. Methods and Results: Direct polymerase chain reaction (DPCR) with primers specific for H. pylori ureA (urease, subunit A) were used to detect H. pylori added to groundwater. DPCR also detected H. pylori in a naturally contaminated water sample. Conclusions: DPCR should provide an improved method to assess contamination of water by H. pylori. Significance and Impact of the Study: This simple, rapid method for detection of H. pylori in water will provide an improved means to investigate the possible role of water as a disease vector.
The rate of de novo galactose synthesis in patients with galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency

Using both a continuous infusion of isotopically labeled [1-13C]galactose with a steady-state analysis and a single injection kinetic approach, we have calculated the apparent galactose appearance rate (GAR) in patients with galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency and control subjects. With the steady-state protocol, the GAR in 18 patients less than 18 years of age was 1.34+/-0.53 mg/kg/h (mean+/-SD) and was significantly greater than the mean of 0.56+/-0.01 mg/kg/h (p=0.004) in five patients above 18 years of age. Patients who were given a priming dose of [1-13C]galactose had a reduced GAR compared to those without a priming dose, 0.73+/-0.05 (n=9) vs 1.46+/-0.62 (n=14)mg/kg/h (p=0.005). The GAR in controls was lower than in patients ranging from 0.58 to 0.68 mg/kg/h in children and 0.07-0.09 mg/kg/h in adults. In the single bolus studies the plasma [13C]galactose enrichment decreased in a biexponential pattern suggesting at least a two-compartment system. The calculated GAR in three adult patients was similar to that found in them by the continuous infusion technique. The GAR in patients suggests the source of galactose for the continued elevation of galactose metabolites as well as the basis for the long-term complications in galactosemia despite restricted dietary galactose intake.
Is infection with Chlamydia pneumoniae a causative agent in atherosclerosis

There is mounting evidence to suggest that Chlamydia pneumoniae might play a role in atherosclerosis. Serological studies and detection of the microorganism in atheromatous lesions were the first indications of an association between C. pneumoniae and the disease. Studies suggest that anti-chlamydial chemotherapy has a favorable effect on cardiovascular disease in humans. Moreover, infection of animals with C. pneumoniae induces inflammatory changes in the aorta that are suggestive of atherosclerosis and accelerates the progression of existing atherosclerotic lesions. If the pathogenic role of C. pneumoniae in atherosclerosis is defined more conclusively by future studies, the development of preventive or therapeutic measures against infection might provide an effective strategy to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
Construction of cDNA libraries from limiting amounts of material

The use of cDNA libraries has become increasingly widespread as new techniques for library construction and analysis have become available. In recent years, interest in cell-type or stage-specific gene expression has necessitated the construction of cDNA libraries from very small numbers of cells. Recent advances in techniques of RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, library construction, and the use of the polymerase chain reaction have made this a realistic goal.
Femtosecond carrier dynamics in photoexcited highly ordered pyrolytic graphite films

Abstract The ultrafast relaxation of photoexcited carriers in thin films of exfoliated highly ordered pyrolytic graphite are examined using the equal-pulse correlation technique. An extremely fast relaxation due to intraband carrier–carrier thermalization was observed at 15 ± 10 fs followed by intraband carrier–optical phonon interaction on the order of 175 ± 30 fs. A modulation in the absorption depth of 1.4% was observed in the samples from partial saturation due to Pauli blocking.
Therapie der postmenopausalen Osteoporose

Die Therapie der Osteoporosen richtet sich nach einfachen Grundsatzen. Liegt eine Osteoporose mit hohem Knochenumsatz vor, sollte dieser Umsatz zunachst gebremst werden. Hierzu dienen Bisphosphonate, das Raloxifen und in seltenen Fallen ein Calcitonin. Ist der hohe Knochenumsatz gebremst oder liegt von Anfang an eine Osteoporose mit niedrigem Knochenumsatz vor, sollte ein knochenanaboles Kombinationsschema begonnen werden. Dies besteht aus der Induktion des Kollagenes vom Typ I durch Parathormon oder Fluoride. Das so synthetisierte Osteoid sollte durch Kalzium, Vitamin D oder dessen Metabolite mineralisiert werden. Zusatzlich sollte der Knochenabbau in der Perimenopause durch Ostrogene und Gestagene, bei einer Patientin mit einem rezeptorpositiven Mammakarzinom durch Antiostrogene und nach dem Klimakterium durch Raloxifen oder Bisphosphonate gebremst werden. Im hoheren Alter liegt haufig keine reine Osteoporose, sondern eine durch mangelnde Vitamin-D-Versorgung bedingte Osteoporomalazie mit untermineralisiertem Osteoid vor. In einer solchen Situation genugt haufig die Gabe von Vitamin D und Kalzium, um eine ausreichende Mineralisation zu erreichen. Gleichzeitig muss eine muskelaufbauende, physikalische Therapie erfolgen, da sich der Knochen an die jeweils vorhandene Muskelmasse adaptiert.
CO2 distribution on Mars

Abstract Ground-based observations of the CO 2 distribution on Mars were made this past opposition from Cerro Tololo Interamerican Observatory. Almost complete coverage of the Martian surface from 40°N to 60°S was obtained. Agreement with previous Kitt Peak observations is good, and confirmation of a pressure anomaly in the Tharsis region has been obtained. The ridge whose eastern slope is Syrtis Major stops at about 15°S, in agreement with the 1971 radar data. The Noachis-Hellas region south of Syrtis Major appears at about average altitude, indicating that the dust storm of 1971 was already active in that region as early as the end of August.
An EMG study of functional cortico-motoneuronal connections in humans

Abstract We set out to decompose the EMG signal into its constituent motor unit action potential components to track motor unit firing rates with a high degree of accuracy and extract their average firing rate. We were able to show that this average firing rate tracks the subject's force trajectory from beginning to end. We propose that this average firing rate is a volitional control signal pointing to the existence of a ‘volitional unit’. This volitional unit has to do with the projection of a group of functionally related cortico-motoneurons on a group of spinal motoneurons in the motoneuronal pool of a muscle. Our study of motor unit firing patterns during their steady state showed that spinal motoneurons respond to a descending central input in a Gaussian manner. We have further shown that the central drive itself, as represented by the average firing rate of the active motor units, also displays a Gaussian firing behavior. We have also described the existence of a ‘translation factor’, highly correlated to the motor unit size, which is unique to each spinal motoneuron and determines the motoneuronal response, and its resulting firing rate, to the descending inputs. As for force generation, we have shown that expressing the twitch force of a motor unit in a dynamic fashion using the ‘electrotwitch’ concept of firing rate × macro area, approximates motor unit force output better and accounts for firing rate related force changes more effectively than force estimates based on the mechanical twitch.
A practical implementation of cross-spectrum in protein backbone resonance assignment.

Abstract The concept of cross-spectrum is applied in protein NMR spectroscopy to assist in the backbone sequential resonance assignment. Cross-spectrum analysis is used routinely to reveal correlations in frequency domains as a means to reveal common features contained in multiple time series. Here the cross-spectrum between related NMR spectra, for example HNCO and HN(CA)CO, can be calculated with point-by-point multiplications along their common C′ carbon axis. In the resulting higher order cross-spectrum, an enhanced correlation signal occurs at every common i-1 carbon frequency allowing the amide proton HN (and nitrogen N) resonances from residues i and i-1 to be identified. The cross-spectrum approach is demonstrated using 2D spectra H(N)CO, H(NCA)CO, H(NCO)CACB, and H(N)CACB measured on a 15N/13C double-labeled Ubiquitin sample. These 2D spectra are used to calculate two pseudo-3D cross-spectra, Hi–Hi-1–C′i-1 and Hi–Hi-1–CAi-1CBi-1. We show using this approach, backbone resonances of H, C′, CA, and CB can be fully assigned without ambiguity. The cross-spectrum principle is expected to offer an easy, practical, and more quantitative approach for heteronuclear backbone resonance assignment.
Optical Coherence Tomography: Pathology Correlation of Optic Disc Melanocytoma

Objective To correlate combined optical coherence tomography (OCT) and scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) imaging to clinical and histopathologic characteristics of optic disc melanocytoma (ODM). Design Retrospective, consecutive clinical case analysis. Participants Twenty patients with ODM were evaluated. Testing All underwent ophthalmic examinations including a best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, dilated ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography with angiography, B-scan ultrasonography, and combined OCT and SLO imaging. Main Outcome Measures One eye, treated by enucleation, was evaluated by pathologic analysis and was correlated to its combined OCT and SLO images. These findings were correlated to clinical and OCT information from 19 patients with ODM. Results Histopathologic and combined OCT and SLO features included: disruption of the internal limiting membrane, disorganization of the retina (overlying the tumor), and visualization of the tumor's subretinal surface. Compressive and infiltrative changes in the optic nerve, peripapillary choroid, and retina were correlated directly to combined OCT and SLO images. To varying degrees, these histopathologic findings were seen on combined OCT and SLO. However, the pigment of the ODMs blocked OCT reflectance deep to the tumor's surface. Conclusions This study demonstrated that OCT and SLO findings could be correlated directly with histopathologic characteristics. Imaging with OCT can be used to diagnose and correlate secondary retinal, superficial, and subretinal tumor characteristics. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
NOTES transvaginal hybrid cholecystectomy: the United States human experience

Background “Pure” NOTES and “hybrid” NOTES procedures have gained popularity during the past few years. However, most of these published series have been documented outside the United States.
Modeling coupled biogeochemical cycles

Organisms require about 30 essential elements to sustain life. The cycles of these elements are coupled to one another through the specific physiological requirements of the organisms. Here, I contrast several approaches to modeling coupled biogeochemical cycles using an example of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus accumulation in a Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) forest ecosystem and the response of that forest to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations and global warming. Which of these approaches is most appropriate is subject to debate and probably depends on context; nevertheless, this question must be answered if scientists are to understand ecosystems and how they might respond to a changing global environment.
Public opinion for sale: The role of policy marketers in Greater Yellowstone policy conflict

This article develops a macro-level theory of framing to explain the intractable or ‘icked’ nature of environmental policy. Using conflict in the Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA) as a case study, we review how proposed solutions – technical, scientific, and economic – and cultural issues often lead to inadequate policy solutions. We then propose that interest groups, the media, and elected officials do not act solely as linkage mechanisms, but, rather, as policy marketers who market public opinion to citizens. The macro-level trends of a marketing culture in tandem with the rise of consumerism are explored in the context of GYA politics. Finally, we describe how our proposed macro-level theory of framing points to a rich research agenda for empirically testing questions about issue framing, policy marketers, and public opinion formation in environmental policy conflict.
Host range of an NPV and a GV isolated from the common cutworm, Agrotis segetum: pathogenicity within the cutworm complex.

The term cutworm covers a range of species with a similar life history that can be very damaging pests on a wide range of crops. Attacks by cutworms are often made up of more than one species; thus, the most cost effective microbial control agent needs to be pathogenic for multiple species within this complex. In this study we investigate the host range of Agrotis segetum NPV and A. segetum GV for other cutworm species and closely related Noctuinae. Eight species, A. segetum, Agrotis ipsilon, Agrotis exclamationis, Agrotis puta, Noctua comes, Peridroma saucia, Xestia sexstrigata, and Xestia xanthographa, were clearly susceptible to AgseNPV, which was confirmed by DNA analysis. Aglais urticae, Diarsia rubi, Noctua pronuba, and Xestia c-nigrum were not susceptible to AgseNPV at the doses used. Noctua fimbriata, Noctua janthina, and Ochroplura plecta gave ambivalent results: larvae died of NPV infection when they were challenged with AgseNPV, but these individuals only produced weak positives in a squash blot analysis and there was insufficient DNA for confirmation by restriction endonuclease profiling. These ambivalent results could suggest either a weak infection by AgseNPV or partial homology between their own virus and AgseNPV. The untreated control insects of several species died of NPV infection, which indicates that these field-collected insects were probably carrying a vertically transmitted NPV. Fewer species were tested with AgseGV and only N. pronuba and N. comes were susceptible. N. fimbriata and Helicoverpa armigera were not susceptible to AgseGV.
A TIDAL SIMULATION SYSTEM FOR ESTUARINE ECOSYSTEM RESEARCH

ABSTRACT This paper describes a system for simulating tidal movements in an enclosed salt-water (estuarine) environment. This Tidal Simulation System (TSS) can be programmed to deliver various tide levels on variable cycles, and can record system performance analog data output on strip charts. Employing a variable-speed centrifugal pump, a system of pneumatic valves actuated by a central timing device, a pressurization subsystem, and a special piping manifold, the system controls flow through a branched array of submerged outlet pipes which prevent disruption of surface water and oil films, and prevent disturbance of bottom sediments. The system has undergone extensive operation tests in the Ecosystem Research Laboratory of the Mississippi State University Research Center, situated at the NASA National Space Technology Laboratory (NSTL) at Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and has been used to simulate tides in two pairs of ponds which were employed on an Environmental Protection Agency contract to study the fa...
Sexual and reproductive health of Portuguese adolescents.

Background As adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are major sources of morbidity, preventing them is an important health goal for Portuguese society. Objective To review data on the knowledge, attitudes and statistics on sexual and reproductive health. Methods A systematic review was conducted including peer-reviewed articles addressing issues influencing the sexuality of Portuguese adolescents (aged 13 to 19), published up to 2011 and conducted in any type of setting. After crossing-cleaning the reference list, 33 articles were included. Results The rate of sexual activity by Portuguese adolescents is high (44%-95%), but there has been an increase in the age of intercourse debut (currently 15.6 years). Early commencement of sexual intercourse is associated with smoking and regular alcohol consumption. Condoms are the most frequently chosen contraceptive method for first (76%-96%) and subsequent (52%-69%) sexual encounters. The perception of a double standard in sex still exists in teenage culture for both genders and influence behavior. There are significant differences between migrant and native adolescents: African adolescents initiate sexual intercourse at earlier ages and are more likely to have unprotected sex. Only one-third of Portuguese teenagers have ever visited a health facility to seek counseling concerning contraception or STIs, and less than half have ever attended classes on reproductive health. Very few (12%) have knowledge about Chlamydia trachomatis infection. The prevalence of STIs in Portuguese youth is unknown. The adolescent fertility rate is still high (14.7 births per 1000 females aged 15-19 years), but it, as well as the rate of abortion, is steadily decreasing. Conclusions There is still a long way to go towards promoting a resourceful young population. Citizens and institutions must focus on increasing both the competence of youths and external supports. Information must be provided systematically and health services must have greater accessibility. Studies addressing cultural and environmental determinants that contribute to the molding of the sexual conduct of Portuguese adolescents must be held to produce new and effective culturally sensitive health interventions.
Acidic phospholipids, diacylglycerols, and free fatty acids in gerbil brain: A comparison of ischemic changes resulting from carotid ligation and decapitation

The levels of brain acidic phospholipids (poly-PI, PI, PA, and PS), DG, and FFA and their acyl group profiles were determined after induction of ischemia in gerbils by ligation of the common carotid arteries and decapitation. Ischemia induced by both procedures resulted in a significant decrease in poly-PI (20% for 1-min decapitation and 1-min ligation). Except for a 16% increase in PI in the 5-min decapitation group, no apparent change was found in other phospholipids after either ischemic condition. The level of DG was increased one- and three-fold after 1 and 5 min, respectively, of decapitative ischemic treatment. Ligation of the carotid arteries for 1 min resulted also in a one-fold increase in the DG level. The decapitative model resulted in a one- and five-fold increase in FFA level (with respect to 1 and 5 min, respectively), whereas ligation for 1 min resulted in an increase of 42% of the FFA. The acyl groups of poly-PI and PI in the control gerbil brain are enriched in 18:0 and 20:4, but those of DG, FFA, and PA have a higher proportion of 16:0 besides 18:0 and 20:4. However, a preferential increase in the proportion of 18:0 and 20:4 was shown for the DG and FFA in both types of ischemic treatments. It is concluded from the results that both models of ischemic treatment elicit a similar decrease in poly-PI and increase in DG, but differ in the amount of FFA release. The higher level of FFA release in the decapitative model suggests that other biochemical mechanisms may be activated to cause the additional release.
Gene expression and growth as indicators of effects of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill on spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus).

The BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill has great potential to negatively affect estuarine fish populations. In order to assess possible impacts of this event, a series of sublethal lab experiments were performed, using the economically and ecologically important species spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus). Larval and juvenile spotted seatrout were exposed to sublethal concentrations of high energy water accommodated fraction (HEWAF), chemically enhanced water accommodated fraction (CEWAF), or dispersant alone in an acute exposure. Response to exposure was evaluated with quantative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to examine expression of cytochrome P-4501A (CYP1A). Growth of larvae and juveniles over the duration of the experiment was measured as an index of physiological response. Our data showed that the different life stages respond differently to crude and dispersed oil, with larval spotted seatrout affected most by CEWAF, while juvenile spotted seatrout were affected to a greater extent by HEWAF. In b...
The Relationship Between Education and Satisfaction with Job Content

The article presents a study which examined the proposition that better educated workers will be less satisfied with the actual content of their jobs than less educated workers. The methodology of ...
In Vivo engineering of the vocal fold ECM with injectable HA hydrogels-late effects on tissue repair and biomechanics in a rabbit model.

Summary Objectives To determine if the utilization of injectable chemically modified hyaluronan (HA) derivative at the time of intentional vocal fold resection may facilitate wound repair and preserve the unique viscoelastic properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and lamina propria 6 months after treatment. Study Design Prospective, controlled animal study. Methods Twelve rabbit vocal folds were biopsied bilaterally, and the left side of vocal fold was treated with Extracel, an injectable, chemically modified HA derivative, and the right side of vocal fold was injected with saline as control at the time of resection. Animals were sacrificed 6 months after biopsy and injection. Outcomes measured include transcription levels for procollagen, fibronectin, fibromodulin, transforming growth factor beta one (TGF-β1), HA synthase, and hyaluronidase, and tissue biomechanics—viscosity and elasticity. Results Extracel-treated vocal folds were found to have significantly less fibrosis than saline-treated controls. Extracel-treated vocal folds had significantly improved biomechanical properties of elasticity and viscosity. Significantly decreased levels of fibronectin, fibromodulin, TGF-β1, procollagen I, and HA synthase were measured. Conclusions Prophylactic in vivo manipulation of the ECM with an injectable HA hydrogel appears to induce vocal fold tissue regeneration to yield improved tissue composition and biomechanical properties at 6 months.
Foaming and interfacial properties of hydrolyzed β-lactoglobulin

Abstract β-lactoglobulin (β-lg) was hydrolyzed with three different proteases and subsequently evaluated for its foaming potential. Foam yield stress ( τ 0 ) was the primary variable of interest. Two heat treatments designed to inactivate the enzymes, 75 °C/30 min and 90 °C/15 min, were also investigated for their effects on foam τ 0 . Adsorption rates and dilatational rheological tests at a model air/water interface aided data interpretation. All unheated hydrolysates improved foam τ 0 as compared to unhydrolyzed β-lg, with those of pepsin and Alcalase 2.4L® being superior to trypsin. Heat inactivation negatively impacted foam τ 0 , although heating at 75 °C/30 min better preserved this parameter than heating at 90 °C/15 min. All hydrolysates adsorbed more rapidly at the air/water interface than unhydrolyzed β-lg, as evidenced by their capacity to lower the interfacial tension. A previously observed relationship between interfacial dilatational elasticity ( E ′ ) and τ 0 was generally confirmed for these hydrolysates. Additionally, the three hydrolysates imparting the highest τ 0 not only had high values of E ′ (approximately twice that of unhydrolyzed β-lg), they also had very low phase angles (essentially zero). This highly elastic interfacial state is presumed to improve foam τ 0 indirectly by improving foam stability and directly by imparting resistance to interfacial deformation.