cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Well‐defined graft copolymers containing a poly(methacrylate) backbone and functional or block poly(vinyl ether) side chains

The anionic random copolymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and 2-(1-acetoxyethoxy)ethyl methacrylate (AEEMA) was carried out using 1,1-diphenylhexyllithium (DPHL) as initiator, in the presence of LiCI ([LiCl]/[DPHL] 0 = 2), in tetrahydrofuran (THF), at -60°C. The resulting polymer, poly-(MMA-co-AEEMA), has a controlled molecular weight and a narrow molecular weight distribution (M w /M n = 1.05 ∼ 1.09). Without quenching, toluene, EtAlCl 2 and a functional monomer [2-acetoxyethyl vinyl ether (AcVE), 2-chloroethyl vinyl ether (CIVE) or 2-vinyloxyethyl methacrylate (VEMA)] were introduced into the above THF solution of the copolymer at 20°C. Every side chain of AEEMA unit of poly(MMA-co-AEEMA) was activated by EtAlCl 2 to induce the cationic polymerization of the functional monomer. THF, which was used as solvent in the preparation of the copolymer of MMA and AEEMA, acted as a Lewis base in the latter cationic polymerization, thus stabilizing the propagating site. By using this procedure, a controlled cationic polymerization of a functional monomer was achieved and a well-defined graft copolymer with functional side chains was obtained. Instead of a single functional monomer, the simultaneous addition of isobutyl vinyl ether (IBVE) and AcVE, CIVE or VEMA during the second step cationic polymerization process generated a graft copolymer with random copolymer side chains. Furthermore, a graft copolymer with block side chains could also be prepared by performing a block copolymerization during the second cationic grafting step by adding sequentially AcVE (CIVE or VEMA) and IBVE or vice versa. Every graft copolymer thus obtained possessed a high purity, controlled graft number and molecular weight as well as a narrow molecular weight distribution (M w /M n = 1.12 ∼ 1.25).
Principles of uniapical and biapical radial deformity correction using dome osteotomies and the center of rotation of angulation methodology in dogs.

Objective— To describe the normal anatomic axis of the canine radius in 2 planes (frontal, sagittal), and report the use and efficacy of dome osteotomies for acute correction of canine antebrachial deformities. Study Design— Retrospective study. Sample Population— Normal antebrachii (n=20) radiographs were used as a reference, and 7 dogs with 9 radial angular limb deformities that were corrected by use of dome osteotomies. Methods— Orthogonal radiographs of 20 normal antebrachii were used to determine normal ranges of frontal (FPA) and sagittal plane anatomic axes (SPA). Pre and postoperative radiographs of 7 dogs (9 radii) that had surgical correction of radial angular limb deformities by dome osteotomies were reviewed. Success at deformity correction into established normal ranges and to the normal contralateral side, if present, was determined. Results— Normal ranges were FPA, 0–8° and SPA, 8–35°. There were 4 biapical and 5 uniapical deformities. FPA and SPA were corrected into normal range in 66% and 78% of affected limbs, respectively; however, only 44% of radii were corrected into normal ranges in both planes. Conclusions— Ranges for normal canine radial axes can be used as goals for angular limb correction when there is bilateral angular deformity. The dome osteotomy technique is advantageous in certain conditions for biplanar deformity correction. Clinical Relevance— Dome osteotomies can be used to correct radial deformities in the frontal and sagittal planes, with certain advantages, but are heavily reliant on appropriate preoperative planning.
Total sulfur amino acid requirement of juvenile red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus

Two experiments were conducted in a brackish water (6 ± 1 ppt) recirculating system to quantify the total sulfur amino acid requirement of juvenile red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and the replacement value of cystine for methionine. The experimental diets contained 35% crude protein from red drum muscle, shrimp meal and crystalline amino acids. Incremental levels of L-methionine were added to the basal diet in the methionine experiment and fed to juvenile red drum for 8 weeks. Based on growth and feed efficiency data, the total sulfur amino acid requirement was determined to be 1.06% of diet (3.03% of dietary protein). In the second experiment to determine the replacement value of cystine for methionine, diets were formulated to contain 0.95% total sulfur amino acids with various eprcentages provided by cystine and methionine. Based on growth and feed efficiency of red drum fed the various diets for 5 weeks, cystine was able to spare approximately 40% of the dietary methionine requirement on an equimolar sulfur basis without significantly reducing performance. Results from these experiments provide information that will assist in formulating diets to satisfy the sulfur amino acid requirement of red drum.
Isolation and characterization of 1-β-D-ribofuranosylpyridin-4-one-3-carboxamide from human urine

Abstract From the urine of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) patients, we have isolated a novel nucleoside which is characterized as 1-β- D -ribofuranosylpyridin-4-one-3- carboxamide. The above structure was assigned on the basis of spectral data and by synthesis. The uv, nmr, and mass spectra and the paper chromatographic mobilities of the natural material were identical to those of a synthetic sample.
Lamina x of primate spinal cord: Distribution of five neuropeptides and serotonin

Abstract The distribution of substance P. somatostatin, choleeystokinin, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, enkephalin and serotonin in axons, terminals and neurons was compared in the area surrounding the central canal (lamina X) at five representative levels of the monkey spinal cord, using peroxidase antiperoxidase immunocytochemistry. Immunoreactive neurons containing each of the neurochemicals were identified. At the cervical, thoracic and lumbar levels the area lateral to the canal had dense terminal fields immunoreaetive for each neurochemical. The dorsal commissural region, the pericanal area, and the ventral commissural area were supplied by some but not all of the substances. In the lower thoracic cord innervation extended into the dorsal midline area and into the ventromedial commissural region. In contrast, in the sacral cord, the dorsal commissural region could be subdivided on the basis of innervation, and the lateral region was densely supplied by only cholecystokinin and serotonin, while the sacral ventral commissure and the pericanal area were supplied by all six neurochemicals. The immunocytochemical mappings were compared with published maps of functional classes of neurons and with the distribution of primary afferents and descending fibers in lamina X. The dense peptidergic and serotonergic innervation in the lateral area and the dorsal commissural area corresponded particularly with the location of projection neurons and primary afferents described in other studies.
A versatile light guide design for ultraviolet light photo-CIDNP experiments. Modification of a varian EM-360

Among the available techniques for studying reactions involving radicals and radical ions CIDNP is one that has recently bee11 developed for routine use (Z-6). The relative ease with which experiments can be conducted has enabled a wide variety of applications, including the detection of intermediates during photolysis (Z-6). Our interest in photochemically med iated electron-transfer processes and the resulting geminate radical ion pairs led us to explore ways to mod ify an available Varian EM-360 (7). The paucity of publ ished details (8-13) for instrument mod ification encouraged us to describe the two designs below. Both implement features to enable use of wavelengths well below 300 nm. We chose to irradiate the sample as close to the rf coils as possible in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the sample tube. This allows one some latitude in choice of solution concentration that m ight be precluded by a high optical density during irradiation down the length of the tube. It also maximizes the concentration of intermediates in the detection volume. The em itting end of the light guide is al igned with a hole (~4 m m diameter) bored in the rf coil tube. This hole was made (by our glassblower) by repeatedly pressing a glowing tungsten wire (heated with a torch) against the wall and the subsequent small opening until proper size was achieved. The guide tube, which is wound with the receiver coil, can be replaced with a high-precision 7 m m NMR tube and the coil rewound. The need to replace the original one described above led one of us to bore the hole (~5 m m o.d., -5 m m below the coil) with a SIC grinding stone powered by a Dremel tool. Both light-guide configurations required cutting parts of the shim-coil f rame and the bottom of the circuit board below the two capacitors. The cut into the frame was of sufficient width and depth to allow placement of the light guide without destroying the structural integrity of the frame or changing the gap between the shim-coil plates. The first design used an 18 in. long X 2 m m o.d. quartz fiber optic (protectively sheathed, 10 m m overall o.d.) with aluminum end fittings (Math Associates, Port Washington, N.Y. 11050). The aluminum fitting interfered with shimming and was removed with a Dremel tool. (Alternatively, the fiber optic can be purchased with only one fitting.) The light-guide position was permanently fixed by tying it in place with nylon thread and gluing it with Duco cement. This material is rigid when dry but acetone softening and solubility make the process reversible. The other end of
Doped Mott insulators: Breaking through to the other side

A superconductor that can be doped with elements that add electrons or take them away may finally lead to a clearer understanding of the transition from an insulator to a superconductor.
Abstract 3617: Fat intake after prostate cancer diagnosis and risk of lethal prostate cancer and total mortality.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Context and Objective: Although prostate cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death in the US, few studies have evaluated the effect of diet after diagnosis on prostate cancer progression and all-cause mortality. We examined fat intake after prostate cancer diagnosis in relation to risk of lethal prostate cancer and all-cause mortality. Methods: This was a prospective study of 1,019 men diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1982 and 2000 in the Physicians’ Health Study. Men completed a dietary food frequency questionnaire a median of 5.1 years after diagnosis. We examined post-diagnostic intake of saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and trans fats, as well as animal and vegetable fats. Cases were confirmed by medical record review. The main outcomes were lethal prostate cancer, defined as prostate cancer-specific death or metastasis to bone, and all-cause mortality. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the relative risk of lethal prostate cancer and all-cause mortality. Models were adjusted for age at diagnosis, time since diagnosis, clinical T-stage, Gleason Score, prostate cancer treatment, BMI, smoking status, intake of alcohol and protein, total calories, and other fats. Results: We observed 87 lethal prostate cancer events and 395 total deaths over a median follow-up after diagnosis of 13.9 years. There was a suggestion of a positive relation between saturated fat intake and lethal prostate cancer that failed to reach statistical significance. The hazard ratio (HR) for lethal prostate cancer associated with a 5% increase in energy from saturated fat was 1.97 (0.89, 4.36; p=0.10). In addition, saturated fat intake after diagnosis was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR per 5% energy: 1.49; 95%CI: 1.02, 2.16; p=0.04) while vegetable fat was associated with reduced risk of all-cause mortality (HR per 10% energy: 0.63; 95%CI; 0.46, 0.88; p=0.007). Conclusions: Among men diagnosed with prostate cancer, replacing calories from carbohydrates with saturated fat after diagnosis may increase risk of all-cause mortality, while replacing calories from carbohydrates with vegetable fat may reduce risk of all-cause mortality. Citation Format: Stacey A. Kenfield, Erin L. Richman, Howard D. Sesso, Jing Ma, Meir J. Stampfer, Jorge E. Chavarro. Fat intake after prostate cancer diagnosis and risk of lethal prostate cancer and total mortality. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3617. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-3617
Abscisic Acid and the Maturation of Cacao Embryos in Vitro

Abscisic acid (ABA) was tested for its ability to affect development of immature zygotic embryos of cacao (Theobroma cacao) in vitro, by adding exogenous ABA, fluridone, or mefluidide to cultured embryos. Endogenous ABA levels, measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, were increased by exogenous ABA or by culture on sucrose increasing to 21%, and were decreased by fluridone and, to a lesser extent, by mefluidide. The effects of these on maturation were measured as effects on anthocyanins, lipids, and fatty acid saturation, all of which increase with maturation of the cacao embryo. Maturation was stimulated by increasing sucrose and, to a lesser degree, the addition of ABA, but decreasing endogenous ABA by treating with fluridone significantly inhibited all maturation parameters. Although desiccation tolerance does not develop in cacao embryos, these results suggest that ABA and sucrose are both needed for the initiation of events associated with maturation in vitro.
Perfect differential paramagnetism (condon domains) in a graphite intercalation compound

Abstract The ground state of an electron gas in a strong magnetic field can be inhomogeneous. In a nearly filled Landau level, magnetic interaction can reduce the energy of the next higher Landau level to such an extent that domains of this higher level can nucleate. In a two-dimensional electron (or hole) gas, these Condon domains are predicted to be closely analogous to the quantum Hall effect. This paper discusses these theoretical predictions and connects them to the experimental observations of Condon domains in Br 2 -intercalation compounds. The extreme sharpness of the observed transitions allows detailed studies of domain-wall (soliton) dynamics in the two-phase regime.
American Pediatric Society Presidential Address at the 100th annual meeting: let the walls come tumbling down.

American Pediatric Society Presidential Address at the 100th Annual Meeting: Let the Walls Come Tumbling Down
Historical Archaeologies of the American West

Historical archaeology in western North America includes a vast collection of research that underscores the region’s dynamic cultural heritage. Here, I review a sample of the literature related to this research and organize them into four conceptual themes: colonialism and postcolonialism, landscape transformation, migration and diaspora, and industrial capitalism. I conclude that the future of historical archaeology in the West will be grounded in research that integrates these themes. As the region continues to experience human dilemmas related to issues such as balancing resource extraction with sustainable conservation and lingering issues of colonialism, these archaeologies have value for transcending the nature–culture divide and for understanding the ways in which humanity can navigate pressing issues relevant to our modern world, including vulnerability, risks, adaptation, resilience, and sustainability.
Ahemeral light regimens test the photoperiodic threshold of the european starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

Male European starlings(Sturnus vulgaris) were held for three consecutive photoperiod oscillations (ahemeral years) composed of 30-h day lengths, i.e., the “daily” light and dark each lasted three hours longer than under the natural daily photoperiod at latitude 38°N. These starlings had no gonad metamorphosis during the 45 actual months necessary to complete the three ahemeral photoperiod oscillations; nor did subsequent exposure to continuous illumination elicit gonad response. It is concluded that the daily duration of light and darkness (although certainly operant in controlling starling sexual cycles under temperate-zone photoperiod oscillations) is not the critical factor establishing a sexual cycle under the ahemeral regimen. Rather, it appears that this species must experience a daily duration of light of 12 hours or less (a definitive photoperiodic threshold) before photo-induction of a sexual cycle is possible.
Purification and properties of the allophanate hydrolase from Chlamydomonas reinhardii

Abstract Allophanate hydrolase was purified to homogeneity from extracts of Chlamydomonas reinhardii grown phototrophically using urea as sole source of nitrogen. The following sequence of steps comprised the purification procedure: (1) protamine sulfate precipitation; (2) ammonium sulfate fractionation; (3) poly(ethylene glycol) fractionation; (4) batch-wise DEAE-cellulose adsorption; (5) Sepharose 6-B gel filtration; (6) hydroxyapatite chromatography. This procedure yielded an allophanate hydrolase preparation which was homogenous as judged by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The molecular weight, as determined by gradient polyacrylamide electrophoresis and gel filtration, was 110 000 and 100 000, respectively. The pH optimum of this enzyme was approximately 9.0, while the K m for allophanate was 0.55 mM. Allophanate hydrolase was sensitive to N -ethylmaleimide but was protected from this inhibition by allophanate. Malonic acid, oxaloacetic acid, and acetoacetic acid were inhibitory to allophanate hydrolysis.
Tin-Lead flake poly (ether sulfone) composite formed by in-situ melt processing of tin-lead particles

Tin-lead (60Sn-40Pb) flake polymether sulfone) (PES) composites in which the flakes were partially interconnected and of average thickness 2 μm were prepared by hot pressing molten Sn-Pb particles in a matrix of PES at a temperature above the melting temperature of Sn-Pb and above the glass transition temperature of PES. Hot pressing at 240 o C and 6.51 MPa resulted in a 15 vol% Sn-Pb composite of lower electrical resistivity and higher electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness than a PES composite containing 15 vol% aluminum flakes that were not formed in-situ. The electrical properties of the in-situ PES/Sn-Pb flake composites were much better than those of PES/Sn-Pb particle composites that were fabricated by hot pressing at 310 o C (the manufacturer-suggested fabrication temperature), though the mechanical properties were not as good
Hamiltonian equations for multiple-collective-variable theories of nonlinear Klein-Gordon equations: A projection-operator approach.

We consider classical Hamiltonian systems in which there exist collective modes where the motion associated with each collective mode is describable by a collective coordinate. The formalism we develop is applicable to both continuous and discrete systems where the aim is to investigate the dynamics of kink or solitonlike solutions to nonlinear Klein-Gordon equations which arise in field theory and condensed-matter theory. We present a new calculational procedure for obtaining the equations of motion for the collective coordinates and coupled fields based on Dirac's treatment of constrained Hamiltonian systems. The virtue of this new (projection-operator) procedure is the ease with which the equations of motion for the collective variables and coupled fields are derived relative to the amount of work needed to calculate them from the Dirac brackets directly. Introducing collective coordinates as dynamical variables into a system enlarges the phase space accessible to the possible trajectories describing the system's evolution. This introduces extra solutions to the new equations of motion which do not satisfy the original equations of motion. It is therefore necessary to introduce constraints in order to conserve the number of degrees of freedom of the original system. We show that the constraints have the effect of projecting out the motion in the enlarged phase space onto the appropriate submanifold corresponding to the available phase space of the original system. We show that the Dirac bracket accomplishes this projection, and we give an explicit formula for this projection operator. We use the Dirac brackets to construct a family of canonical transformations to the system of new coordinates (which contains the collective variables) and to construct a Hamiltonian in this new system of variables. We show the equations of motion that are derived through the lengthy Dirac bracket prescription are obtainable through the simple projection-operator procedure. We provide examples that illustrate the ease of this projection-operator method for the single- and multiple-collective-variable cases. We also discuss advantages of particular forms of the Ansatz used for introducing the collective variables into the original system.
The Effects of Dietary Silver on Larval Growth in the Echinoderm Lytechinus variegatus

Previous studies have demonstrated that the euryhaline copepod Acartia tonsa is extremely sensitive to dietborne silver (Ag) exposure, with a 20 % inhibition (EC20) of survival occurring when copepods are fed algae with 1.6 μg g−1 dry weight (dw) Ag, corresponding to a waterborne Ag concentration of 0.46 μg l−1 Ag. In contrast, 43 μg l−1 Ag is required to elicit similar effects in copepods exposed to Ag by way of water. In the current study, we investigated whether another planktonic marine organism might also be sensitive to dietary Ag. Specifically, we tested larvae of the echinoderm, Lytechinus variegatus in an 18-day study in which larvae were continuously exposed to Ag-laden algae (Isochrysis galbana). After 7 days of exposure, no significant effects were observed on larval growth up to the highest concentration tested (10.68 μg g−1 dw Ag in algae after exposure to 3.88 μg l−1 waterborne Ag). After 18 days, significant effects were observed in all Ag treatments resulting in a lowest–observable effect concentration of 0.68 μg g−1 dw Ag in algae and corresponding waterborne Ag concentration of 0.05–0.07 μg l−1 Ag (depending on background Ag [see Results]). However, the dose–response relationship was quite flat with a similar level of growth inhibition (approximately 15 %) in all Ag treatments, resulting in an EC20 of >10.68 μg g−1 dw Ag in algae (>3.88 μg l−1 Ag in water). This flat dose–response relationship is characteristic of dietary metal (silver, copper, cadmium, nickel, and zinc) toxicity to copepods as well, although the effect is slightly more robust (approximately 20–30 % inhibition of survival or reproduction). We conclude that echinoderm larvae may be similar to copepods in their sensitivity to dietary Ag, although a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the apparent flat dose–response relationships is clearly needed.
Hematologic responses in llamas with experimentally-induced iron deficiency anemia.

Hematologic abnormalities consistent with iron deficiency anemia were experimentally induced in two healthy ***Ilamas by repeated phlebotomy. Hematologic abnormalities included erythrocyte microcytosis and hypochromia, decreased hemoglobin concentration, hypoferremia, and decreased transferrin saturation. Erythrocyte volume distribution histograms were more sensitive than mean corpuscular volume values for detection of microcytosis. Hypochrormia, which was often eccentric, was morphologically observed on Wright-Giemsa-stained blood films. Frequent folded erythrocytes and dacryocytes were also noted on the blood films. Hematologic abnormalities resolved rapidly after cessation of blood removal, without parenteral iron supplementation.
Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, and Eating-Related Pathology in a National Sample of College Students

Abstract Purpose This study examined associations of gender identity and sexual orientation with self-reported eating disorder (SR-ED) diagnosis and compensatory behaviors in transgender and cisgender college students. Methods Data came from 289,024 students from 223 U.S. universities participating in the American College Health Association–National College Health Assessment II (median age, 20 years). Rates of past-year SR-ED diagnosis and past-month use of diet pills and vomiting or laxatives were compared among transgender students (n = 479) and cisgender sexual minority (SM) male (n = 5,977) and female (n = 9,445), unsure male (n = 1,662) and female (n = 3,395), and heterosexual male (n = 91,599) and female (n = 176,467) students using chi-square tests. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds of eating-related pathology outcomes after adjusting for covariates. Results Rates of past-year SR-ED diagnosis and past-month use of diet pills and vomiting or laxatives were highest among transgender students and lowest among cisgender heterosexual men. Compared to cisgender heterosexual women, transgender students had greater odds of past-year SR-ED diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 4.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.41–6.26) and past-month use of diet pills (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.48–2.83) and vomiting or laxatives (OR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.83–3.30). Although cisgender SM men and unsure men and women also had elevated rates of SR-ED diagnosis than heterosexual women, the magnitudes of these associations were lower than those for transgender individuals (ORs; 1.40–1.54). Conclusions Transgender and cisgender SM young adults have elevated rates of compensatory behavior and SR-ED diagnosis. Appropriate interventions for these populations are urgently needed.
Across-chapter signals: Contrasts and combinations

Abstract Three experiments were conducted to examine the relative effectiveness of two types of text signals on readers' recall of chapter content: “preview” sentences and “recall” sentences. Preview sentences signal contents in upcoming chapters, while recall sentences are backward signals that signal back to previously read material. The results of three experiments indicated that preview and recall sentences each significantly increase readers' recall of signal-relevant content but at the expense of memory for unsignaled information. In combination, preview and recall sentences have significantly more powerful signaling effect than either alone. The results generalized across different types of materials and subjects.
Dynamics of flashlamp pumping a Nd:Cr:GSGG laser

We investigate the inversion dynamics in Nd:Cr:GSGG laser rods as a function of pumping frequency in order to optimize Nd:Cr:GSGG Q switched lasers for rapid time to fire applications. By frequency filtering the pump light to the Nd:Cr:GSGG rod and measuring the florescence from the rod, we determine the dynamics for different excitation processes in the laser (i.e. direct excitation of the Nd ions or indirect excitation via Cr ions). We also measure the flashlamp pulse shape using various spectral filters This combination of measurements help us understand the processes contributing and limiting the efficiency of Nd:Cr:GSGG lasers when the lasers must fire on a short time scale.
Early Diagnosis and Evidence-Based Care of Surgical Sepsis

Sepsis continues to be a common and serious problem among surgical patients. It is a leading cause of both morbidity and mortality in the perioperative period. The early identification of sepsis and the early implementation of evidence-based care can improve outcomes. This focused review will identify ways to improve the early identification of sepsis and discuss the current evidence-based guidelines for the early management of sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock in the surgical patients.
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: Role in Conversion of Plasma Tryptophan to Brain Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine)

Injections of D -lysergic acid diethylamide decrease the turnover rate of 5-hydroxytryptamine of rat brain, as measured from the conversion of 14C-tryptophan into 14C-5-hydroxytryptamine. The 2-bromolysergic acid diethylamide given in doses fivefold greater than those of lysergic acid diethylamide fails to change the rate of 14C-tryptophan conversion into 14C-5-hydroxytryptamine. The effect of D -lysergic acid diethylamide is discussed with regard to its action on brain serotonergic neurons and its psychotomimetic effects.
Use a little history

This poster describes a work in progress regarding the use of history in computing courses. Its focus revolves around the Computing History Resources and Adaptation (CHRAD) project, partially funded by the National Science Foundation. Elements of the presentation include how history can make computing courses interesting and how it can stimulate greater appreciation between technological and social issues.
Prevalence and risk factors for pelvic floor symptoms in women in rural El Salvador

Our aim was to assess the frequency of pelvic floor symptoms among women in rural El Salvador. After written informed consent was obtained, we administered the short form of the urodynamic distress inventory (UDI-6) plus four other pelvic floor questions to 236 women aged 30 to 75 in rural El Salvador attending a general medicine or gynecology clinic. Average (SD) age, parity, and body mass index were 48.0 (8.4) years, 5.9 (3.4), and 26.9 (4.9) kg/m2, respectively. Ten (4.2%) women had a prior hysterectomy, 16 (6.8%) women were smokers, and 108 (45.8%) women were postmenopausal. Seventy-one percent of women reported urinary incontinence (UI); 49.3 and 61.1% of women reported urge UI and stress UI, respectively. Forty-one percent of women reported fecal incontinence (FI) of solid or liquid stool. Women with UI were significantly more likely to have had a hysterectomy compared to women without UI. Women with FI had significantly fewer years of education when compared to women without FI. In conclusion, pelvic floor symptoms are highly prevalent among women in rural El Salvador.
Flocks and fleets: Collective motion and sensing networks in nature and robotics

From bird flocks to fish schools, animals move together and respond to their environment in remarkable ways; their natural collective motion patterns appear well choreographed and their collective survival strategies seem ingenious. Animal group behaviors inspire design for mobile multi-agent robotic systems, where demanding cooperative sensing tasks, such as exploration and sampling in an uncertain and dynamic environment, find their analogue in natural aggregation behaviors, such as foraging and feeding. However, bio-inspiration of this kind is not transparent because the natural “design” mechanisms are not well understood. The joint challenge is to explain the enabling mechanisms in animal groups and to define provable mechanisms for robotic groups. And this suggests an integrated approach: formal bio-inspired models and analysis tools derived to synthesize collective robotic motion and exploration can be used to evaluate design hypotheses for animal groups; subsequent revelations from the biology will in turn inspire new approaches for robotic systems. I will discuss mobile robot and animal networks using a common mathematical framework that builds on coupled oscillator dynamics and communication graphs. I will describe application to an adaptive ocean sampling network, a successful, recent field experiment in Monterey Bay, CA and an investigation of dynamics and decision-making in fish schools.
α-Bungarotoxin binding to a high molecular weight component from lower vertebrate brain identified on dodecyl sulfate protein-blots

Abstract The binding of [ 125 I]iodo-α-bungarotoxin ([ 125 ]α-BuTX) to the dissociated α-subunit of Torpedo acetylcholine receptor (AChR) can be readily demonstrated in a modified ‘protein-blot’ analysis utilizing electrophoretically transferred, dissociated subunits immobilized onto positively charged nylon membranes which are then incubated directly with [ 125 I]α-BuTX. We report here the use of the protein-blotting technique to detect the α-BuTX binding site present in the central nervous system of lower vertebrates and to characterize some of the physicochemical properties of the toxin binding site. High molecular weight (M⩾200,000 and ⩾120,000) α-BuTX-binding components can be readily demonstrated in avian and fish brain extracts upon protein-blotting with [ 125 I]α-BuTX following lithium dodecyl sulfate PAGE. Neither extensive reduction with dithiothreitol nor prior reduction followed by alkylation with iodoacetamide alter the mobility of the CNS-derived BuTX-binding sites. In contrast to our findings with Torpedo AChR or muscle AChR derived from a number of different species, no binding is observed in the molecular weight range of the α-subunit (M r = 40,000) nor is any binding at any molecular weight observed in similar fractions prepared from adult, mammalian (rat, guinea pig) brain using this technique. These results demonstrated the existence in lower vertebrate brain of a BuTX binding site comparable in size to the AChR oligomeric complex of electric organ and muscle. They also suggest, however, striking structural differences between muscle AChR and the central neuronal BuTX-binding complex as well as a considerable difference between the neuronal BuTX-binding sites derived from lower and higher vertebrate brain.
Modification by ketamine on the neuromuscular actions of magnesium, vecuronium, pancuronium and alpha-bungarotoxin in the primate

The neuromuscular effects of ketamine, at cumulative doses of 2.5 and 10 mg · kg−1 iv, were studied by electromyographically quantifying the thumb response evoked by ulnar nerve stimulation in 25 monkeys anaesthetized with pentobarbital-N2O-O2. Ketamine alone at these doses had no neuromuscular effects. When the EMG response was maintained at 50% of control by a continuous infusion of magnesium, vecuronium, or pancuronium, ketamine depressed the responses by an additional 13 ± 3%, 34 ± 7% and 32.5 ± 3.3% (mean ± SEM), respectively, at the highest dose, P < 0.05. In contrast, ketamine had no effect on the neuromuscular block produced by incremental doses of alphabungarotoxin. These results indicate that ketamine does not act on the postjunctional acetylcholine receptor. It plays a secondary role in neuromuscular block, possibly by prejunctional or postjunctional effects independent of receptor occupation.
Long term metabolic arrest and recovery of HEK293 spheroids involves NF-κB signaling and sustained JNK activation†‡

Understanding how cells withstand a depletion of intracellular water is relevant to the study of longevity, aging, and quiescence because one consequence of air-drying is metabolic arrest. After removal of medium, HEK293 spheroids with intracellular water content of approximately 65% survived partial vacuum, with antistatic control, for weeks in the dark at 25 degrees C. In contrast, only a limited exposure of monolayers to air was lethal; the mitochondrion being a target of this stress. The pathways activated during the long-term arrest and recovery of spheroids depended on both NF-kappaB signaling and sustained JNK activation. A cyclical cascade, presumably originating from an intercellular stress signal, led to endogenous cytokine production (TNF-alpha, IL-1b, and IL-8) and propagation of the cellular stress signal through the co-activation of NF-kappaB and JNK. Increased levels of downstream pathway signaling members, specifically Gadd45beta, c-jun, and ATF3 were observed, as was activation of c-jun (phosphorylation). Activation of these pathways permit cells to survive long-term storage and recovery because chemical inhibition of both NF-kappaB nuclear translocation and JNK phosphorylation led to cell death. The capacity of an immortalized cell to enter, and then exit, a state of long-term quiescence, without genetic or chemical intervention, has implications for the study of cell transformation. In addition, the ability to monitor the relevant signaling pathways at endogenous levels, from effector to transcriptional regulator, emphasizes the utility of multicellular aggregate models in delineating stress response pathways.
Performance of the Keck Observatory adaptive-optics system

The adaptive-optics (AO) system at the W. M. Keck Observatory is characterized. We calculate the error budget of the Keck AO system operating in natural guide star mode with a near-infrared imaging camera. The measurement noise and bandwidth errors are obtained by modeling the control loops and recording residual centroids. Results of sky performance tests are presented: The AO system is shown to deliver images with average Strehl ratios of as much as 0.37 at 1.58 μm when a bright guide star is used and of 0.19 for a magnitude 12 star. The images are consistent with the predicted wave-front error based on our error budget estimates.
Two-magnon Raman spectra in a spin-one ferromagnetic fcc lattice

We calculate the Raman spectral density of states for quadrupolar excitations in a face-centered-cubic ferromagnetic lattice of spin-one ions with single-ion anisotropy in addition to the isotropic dipolar and quadrupolar pair interactions. We show that the qualitative features of the variation of the Raman spectra with $\ensuremath{\beta}$ (the ratio of the quadrupolar and dipolar coupling) and $d$ (the ratio of the single-ion anisotropy and dipolar coupling) are the same for fcc and sc lattices. In particular, there is always a distinctive peak near the energy for quadrupolar excitation at the zone center, i.e., $2z{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}^{(1)}(1\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\beta})$.
Statistical method to localize buried landmines from GPR array measurement

In this paper, we use an optimized frequency-wavenumber (F- K) migration method to localize subsurface objects form ground penetrating radar (GPR) array dat. F-K migration coherently processes waves collected at different positions by a GPR array by back-propagating the recorded waves to the underground objects, according to the wave equation. Performance of F-K migration on GPR measurement depends on accurate estimation of wave propagation velocity. Due to measurement noise and random ground surface, F-K migration may lose its resolution and accuracy. We propose an optimized method to improve the performance of F-K migration. The optimized method searches for a better velocity estimate in the framework of Tikhonov regularization. The Tikhonov regularization uses minimum entropy as the regularizer. By trying to minimize entropy of F-K migration results, better performance is achieved in terms of resolution and accuracy. Examples from applying the optimized F-K migration on real data are used to demonstrate its performance.
Diagnosis and Operation for Anomalous Circumflex Coronary Artery

Abstract Background . Origin of the left circumflex coronary artery from the right sinus of Valsalva is the most common anatomic variation of the coronary artery circulation. However, there are few reports about the operative approach to this anomalous vessel. Methods . Forty patients having this anomaly were identified from 10,216 adult cardiac catheterization procedures. Forty percent of the anomalous circumflex coronary arteries (ACCAs) had critical atherosclerotic lesions. Eighty cases needed bypass grafting. Results . For diagnosis of ACCA, the aortic root sign was positive in 94.9% of the diagnosed patients and the nonperfused myocardium sign was found in 92.5%. Eighty percent of ACCAs were larger than 2 mm in radiographic diameter before their passage into the atrioventricular groove. However, after emerging from the atrioventricular groove, 70% measured less than 1.5 mm. Consequently, a technique was developed to bypass the proximal ACCA and was used in 2 cases. Six other patients with more distal disease and larger vessels underwent conventional bypass grafting. Conclusions . The aortic root sign and nonperfused myocardium are useful in diagnosing ACCA. The ACCA is usually too small for use of the conventional graft technique. Therefore, a technique was developed to graft more proximally and was applied successfully in 2 cases. (Ann Thorac Surg 1997;63:377–81)
CD133 Identifies a Human Bone Marrow Stem/Progenitor Cell Sub-population With a Repertoire of Secreted Factors That Protect Against Stroke

The reparative properties of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) have been attributed in part to the paracrine action of secreted factors. We isolated typical human BMSCs by plastic adherence and compared them with BMSC sub-populations isolated by magnetic-activated cell sorting against CD133 (CD133-derived BMSCs, CD133BMSCs) or CD271 [p75 low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor (p75LNGFR), p75BMSCs]. Microarray assays of expressed genes, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) of selected growth factors and cytokines secreted under normoxic and hypoxic conditions demonstrated that the three transit-amplifying progenitor cell populations were distinct from one another. CD133BMSC-conditioned medium (CdM) was superior to p75BMSC CdM in protecting neural progenitor cells against cell death during growth factor/nutrient withdrawal. Intracardiac (arterial) administration of concentrated CD133BMSC CdM provided neuroprotection and significantly reduced cortical infarct volumes in mice following cerebral ischemia. In support of the paracrine hypothesis for BMSC action, intra-arterial infusion of CD133BMSC CdM provided significantly greater protection against stroke compared with the effects of CD133BMSC (cell) administration. CdM from CD133BMSCs also provided superior protection against stroke compared with that conferred by CdM from p75BMSCs or typically isolated BMSCs. CD133 identifies a sub-population of nonhematopoietic stem/progenitor cells from adult human bone marrow, and CD133BMSC CdM may provide neuroprotection for patients with stroke.
Schizophrenia, the heteromodal association neocortex and development: potential for a neurogenetic approach

The heteromodal association neocortex is believed to be a major site of involvement in schizophrenia. This system includes the prefrontal cortex and portions of the superior temporal and inferior parietal cortices, which are linked in cognitive networks observing complex executive functions. The heteromodal cortex is highly elaborated in humans and is believed to continue to develop past birth. The neuropathology of schizophrenia is likely to be heterogeneous and appears to involve developmental abnormalities, with a prominent genetic component. However, the genes involved in the development of the neocortex, and particularly the heteromodal cortex, are not well understood. A candidate-gene approach to schizophrenia using techniques of differential expression might now be feasible and could illuminate the basic neurobiology of the heteromodal cortical network.
Distribution and Abundance of Larval Fishes at Two North Carolina Inlets

Abstract Two major barrier island inlets that connect Pamlico Sound with the Atlantic Ocean were quantitatively sampled for larvae at new moon monthly intervals during 1988-89. Simultaneous tows of bottom and surface 1 m, 500 micron mesh nets were made day and night at single stations inside of Oregon Inlet and Ocracoke Inlet. Oregon Inlet, located in a more temperate marine province, was expected to have a different taxonomic community than Ocracoke Inlet, but, of 77 taxa collected from both inlets, 54 occurred at both inlets. Clupeoids and sciaenids were the dominant taxa in both inlets. At Oregon Inlet the lowest abundance of larvae occurred in February and the highest occurred in late August, whereas at Ocracoke Inlet, November and June were the lowest and highest months of larval abundance. At Oregon Inlet, 63% of the total number of larvae were caught near the bottom, but at Ocracoke Inlet, only 38% were caught near the bottom. Atlantic menhaden, Brevoortia tyrannus , were 40 times more abundant at the surface than at the bottom at Ocracoke Inlet. Most larvae were caught at night at both inlets. The times of occurrence and peak abundance for most species did not appear linked between inlets. Twenty-one species were significantly different in mean length between the two inlets.
A flow visualization study of the development of vortex structures in a round jet impinging on a flat plate and a cylindrical pedestal

Smoke-wire flow visualization is employed to investigate the behavior of a round jet issuing from a straight tube and impinging on a cylindrical pedestal mounted on a flat plate. Velocity and turbulence intensity measurements at the jet exit show correlation with the formation of visualized structures near the impingement surface. The effects of jet exit-to-surface spacing (H/d) and Reynolds number (Re) are explored. It is found that as jet exit-surface spacing increases from 2 to 5, small but significant effects can be seen. These effects include a stabilization of the flow, a lengthening of the potential core and a reduction in vortex formation prior to impingement. An increase in Re is found to increase the turbulence in the shear layer and suppress vortex formation. The presence of the cylindrical pedestal is found to stabilize the jet prior to impingement and also creates a recirculation region at the edge of the pedestal for low Re.
N-terminal domain of vacuolar SNARE Vam7p promotes trans-SNARE complex assembly

SNARE-dependent membrane fusion in eukaryotic cells requires that the heptad-repeat SNARE domains from R- and Q-SNAREs, anchored to apposed membranes, assemble into four-helix coiled-coil bundles. In addition to their SNARE and transmembrane domains, most SNAREs have N-terminal domains (N-domains), although their functions are unclear. The N-domain of the yeast vacuolar Qc-SNARE Vam7p is a binding partner for the homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting complex (a master regulator of vacuole fusion) and has Phox homology, providing a phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P)-specific membrane anchor. We now report that this Vam7p N-domain has yet another role, one that does not depend on its physical connection to the Vam7p SNARE domain. By attaching a transmembrane anchor to the C terminus of Vam7p to create Vam7tm, we bypass the requirement for the N-domain to anchor Vam7tm to reconstituted proteoliposomes. The N-domain of Vam7tm is indispensible for trans-SNARE complex assembly in SNARE-only reactions. Introducing Vam7(1-125)p as a separate recombinant protein suppresses the defect caused by N-domain deletion from Vam7tm, demonstrating that the function of this N-domain is not constrained to covalent attachment to Vam7p. The Vam7p N-domain catalyzes the docking of apposed membranes by promoting transinteractions between R- and Q-SNAREs. This function of the Vam7p N-domain depends on the presence of PI3P and its affinity for PI3P. Added N-domain can even promote SNARE complex assembly when Vam7 still bears its own N-domain.
Utility of an oral diffusion sink (ODS) device for quantification of saliva corticosteroids in human subjects.

Measurement of cortisol by assay of single blood or saliva samples is inherently imprecise due to the episodic secretion of cortisol. In addition, assay of blood usually quantifies total cortisol, rather than separating free hormone, which is proportionately the much smaller fraction. Furthermore, the free fraction may be disproportionately higher in hypercortisolism. Urinary free cortisol is one measure that provides both a time integral and a focus on the free fraction, but it is inconvenient and prone to collection error in unsupervised ambulatory subjects. The Oral Diffusion Sink (ODS) apparatus takes up corticosteroids from saliva according to first-order kinetics and may provide a practical alternative. We assessed the utility of the ODS in a study of seven healthy volunteers admitted to the CRC for three days. Data on day two from 0700-1100 h and 1100-1500 h were compared between the ODS and three other means of assessing cortisol: urinary free cortisol (UFC), blood, and saliva. The subjects all to...