cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF COMPETITIVE PERFORMANCE IN BRASSICA RAPA (CRUCIFERAE)

Growth chamber experiments with rapid-cycling Brassica rapa were designed to estimate the signs and magnitudes ofthe genetic correlations for plant performance in each ofthree conditions: no-competition (isolated plants), intraspecific competition, and interspecific competition with Raphanus sativa. Biomass and flower number were highest in the no-competition treatment, intermediate under intraspecific competition, and lowest under interspecific competition. Significant among-family variation in biomass and flower number was found under each regime. The mean family performance (biomass or flower number) in the no-competition treatment was significantly positively correlated with the performance in only one of the competitive treatments (for biomass in the intraspecific treatment). For both biomass and flower number there was a significant positive correlation between family means in the intra- and interspecific regimes. These correlations were greater in magnitude than those for the comparison between no-competition and competition (intra- or interspecific) treatments. Our results suggest that the importance of traits affecting plant performance is environment-dependent; the performance of a family grown without competition was a poor predictor of performance with competition, while the performance of families grown under intra- and interspecific competition was positively correlated.
The study of tricyclic antidepressants in formalin-fixed human liver and formalin solutions

The stability of amitriptyline, nortriptyline, desipramine and imipramine in formalin-fixed human liver tissue and formalin solutions was investigated. The levels of the tricyclic and its primary demethylated metabolite in the frozen liver were determined and compared with levels obtained in the formalin-fixed liver and formalin solutions in which the liver was stored. It was obvious that some methylation of the secondary amine, nortriptyline, to the corresponding tertiary amine, amitriptyline, and of desipramine to imipramine took place in the formalin environment. Nortriptyline was not detected in most cases, suggesting that it may degrade more rapidly than desipramine. There was no consistent ratio between the concentration of the drug in the frozen liver tissue versus formalin-preserved tissue or versus formalin solution. The methylation rates of the secondary amines could not be quantitated. Storage of the liver tissue in formalin at room temperature resulted in leaching of the drugs into the formalin solution. The drugs tested may be detected for up to 22 months in the formalin-fixed liver and in the formalin medium.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Normal Adults

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a fetal specific glycoprotein normally produced primarily by the fetal liver. Normally, AFP levels decline rapidly after birth, reaching undetectable levels (less than 10 ng/ml) within several months after birth. The authors have developed a more sensitive radioimmunoassay, which has allowed them to study low levels of AFP in normal adults and to determine factors which may affect its normal level. Two hundred and seventy normal Houston blood donors were screened for the absence of hepatitis B and normal ALT levels. The mean AFP level was 3.04 ng/ml +/- 1.9 SD. There was a statistically significant higher level in men compared to women (p less than .004). Regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant increase of AFP levels with age both in men (p less than .05) and in women (p less than .01). These data delineate the normal level of serum AFP in normal adults in the United States. With the normal level now defined, it becomes possible to compare levels in different populations including those exposed to hepatotoxins or hepatocarcinogens in the environment.
Protein estimation in sesame seed and rapeseed flours and meals by a modified udy dye binding method

The Udy standard dye binding method (shaker mixing) employing Acid Orange 12 was improved through a series of single-factor experiments designed to approximate the optimum combination of sample size, mixing period, particle size, drying conditions, shaker speed, and number of glass beads added for uniform mixing. The modified procedure yielded a higher recovery of protein and had high correlations with the Kjeldahl method, i.e., 0.991, 0.995, and 0.977 for sesame flour, rapeseed meal, and rapeseed flour, respectively. Mean values obtained by the Kjeldahl and modified dye binding methods from 12–17 analyses each on single lots of sesame flour, rapeseed meal, and rapeseed flour were 58.9% vs. 59.4% 36.1% vs. 36.0%, and 60.0% vs. 59.4%, respectively. A composite analysis of cereals, legumes, and oilseeds by the modified method had a high correlation (0.995) with Kjeldahl results.
Correlation problems in solids

An intercomparison is given between different types of treatment of electron correlation. On the one hand one has the calculations of Clementi and others arising from accurate Hartree–Fock calculations on atoms and molecules, and their comparisons with the experimental energies. On the other hand, one has calculations of Wigner and Seita, Breuckner and others, on correlations in the free electron gas. It is pointed out that these do not seem consistent with each other. The advantage of describing the correlation in terms of a correlation hole is emphasized. It is recommended that concentrated orbitals be used in discussing correlation, as is being done by the molecular theorists.
Response to Seow: Biological mechanisms of early childhood caries

— For more than three decades, it has been recognized that dental caries is an infectious and transmissible disease in which diet plays a key role. Nevertheless, in treating patients with early childhood caries, scant attention is placed on exploring the source of infection and the prevalence of caries in other family members. Results from studies conducted in animals clearly show that the virulence of mutans streptococci can be enhanced by a highly cariogenic environment. For example, offspring from a highly caries-active dam develop significantly more caries than pups from a low caries-active dam. Considerable attention has been placed on the role of the nursing bottle in early childhood caries. Milk and some infant formulas do not promote caries and the role of the remainder of the diet has been largely ignored. The nursing bottle can effectively block salivary access to tooth surfaces, thereby increasing the cariogenicity of any food remaining in the mouth. Recent evidence shows that salivary gland function is impaired by iron deficiency and by prenatal exposure to lead. Clearly, early childhood caries is a complex disease that requires careful and extensive investigation.
GABA puts the brake on stem cells.

In the adult brain, new neurons are generated from neural stem cells residing in the subventricular zone. Newborn neuroblasts release the transmitter GABA, which reduces the proliferation of stem cells—and thereby neurogenesis—by a nonsynaptic mechanism.
Dopaminergic neurons in the retina of Xenopus laevis: amacrine vs. interplexiform subtypes and relation to bipolar cells.

Presumed dopaminergic neurons were visualized in the retina of the clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, by anti-tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactivity. The studied cells constitute a uniform population with perikarya at the junction of inner nuclear (INL) and inner plexiform (IPL) layers. Each cell body gives rise to 4–6 relatively stout processes (0.5–2.0 μm in diameter) which run for up to 1.2 mm in strata 4–5 of the IPL. These processes have a very asymmetric distribution in the horizontal plane of the retina. A dense plexus of TH fine fibers is distributed uniformly in stratum 1 of the IPL. TH cells are distributed evenly but sparsely (16–20 cells/mm2) across the retina. About 20% of the TH neurons emit 1–3 distally directed fine processes, the majority of which extend < 20 μm, which barely suffices to reach the outer plexiform layer (OPL). Other longer processes are typically unbranched; some reach the OPL, others run tangentially in the INL. The axon terminals of Golgi-impregnated bipolar cells are characterized according to the strata of the IPL in which they arborize. About 80% are confined either to strata 1–2 or 3–5, conforming to the ‘off’ and ‘on’ zones defined by Famiglietti and Kolb (1976). The remainder appear to end in both zones, some extending across the entire width of the IPL. EM examination showed that TH processes receive bipolar synaptic input in both distal and proximal portions of the IPL.
Transfer switches for high performance contiguous-disk magnetic bubble devices

New transfer switches for 4-μm period ion-implanted contiguous-disk bubble devices are reported. Bubbles are translated through the major loop during WRITE-line transfer so that the data appear at the detector-after transfer from the storage loops-in the same order as they are written into the chip. Bias field margins of ∼8 percent have been obtained at drive field frequencies in the range of 100-400 kHz, making the designs particularly suitable for high performance (that is, short access time, high data rate) applications. Long-term testing has shown that such components can be operated over many cycles with only a modest degradation in bias margin of 0.5 Oe per decade.
Fabrication of super ductile polymeric blends using microcellular injection molding

Abstract A novel ductility enhancing method for injection molded plastic parts has been developed. By applying microcellular injection molding to polymer blends of proper morphology, the ductility and toughness of the molded parts can be significantly improved while using less material. The key is to achieve a microcellular structure with a sub-micron scale immiscible secondary phase. Upon tensile loading, debonding of the secondary phase facilitates the interconnection of microcellular voids to form channels such that the stretched component becomes a bundle of fibrils. Compared with other toughening methods, this method achieved a more significant improvement in ductility and toughness.
Performance measurement of projection display

In this paper, a measurement procedure is introduced for characterizing a projection display. The procedure is applied to measure a liquid crystal projection TV. The test results such as light output, uniformity, contrast, chromaticity specification and resolution are shown diagrammatically. Some comparisons are also made with other measurement procedures.
Generation of entangled states of large photon numbers

Using intense amplified short pulses, stimulated parametric down-conversion has been studied. We generated and characterized two polarization entangled spatial modes containing up to 50 indistinguishable photon pairs
Microbial characterization of nitrification in a shallow, nitrogen-contaminated aquifer, Cape Cod, Massachusetts and detection of a novel cluster associated with nitrifying Betaproteobacteria

Abstract Groundwater nitrification is a poorly characterized process affecting the speciation and transport of nitrogen. Cores from two sites in a plume of contamination were examined using culture-based and molecular techniques targeting nitrification processes. The first site, located beneath a sewage effluent infiltration bed, received treated effluent containing O 2 (> 300 µM) and NH 4 + (51–800 µM). The second site was 2.5 km down-gradient near the leading edge of the ammonium zone within the contaminant plume and featured vertical gradients of O 2 , NH 4 + , and NO 3 − (0–300, 0–500, and 100–200 µM with depth, respectively). Ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizers enumerated by the culture-based MPN method were low in abundance at both sites (1.8 to 350 g − 1 and 33 to 35,000 g − 1 , respectively). Potential nitrifying activity measured in core material in the laboratory was also very low, requiring several weeks for products to accumulate. Molecular analysis of aquifer DNA (nested PCR followed by cloning and 16S rDNA sequencing) detected primarily sequences associated with the Nitrosospira genus throughout the cores at the down-gradient site and a smaller proportion from the Nitrosomonas genus in the deeper anoxic, NH 4 + zone at the down-gradient site. Only a single Nitrosospira sequence was detected beneath the infiltration bed. Furthermore, the majority of Nitrosospira -associated sequences represent an unrecognized cluster. We conclude that an uncharacterized group associated with Nitrosospira dominate at the geochemically stable, down-gradient site, but found little evidence for Betaproteobacteria nitrifiers beneath the infiltration beds where geochemical conditions were more variable.
A single gene error of noradrenergic axon growth synchronizes central neurones.

One strategy for deciphering inherited neurological disease is to examine the expression of individual genes controlling the assembly and physiology of specific cell groups within the developing mammalian central nervous system (CNS). This neurogenetic approach, using defined single-locus mutations arising on coisogeneic mouse strains, has recently been used to analyse a major class of neuronal membrane diseases involving abnormal excitability, the epilepsies, and to identify examples of hereditary variation in signalling properties at central synapses1. An interesting mutation, the Tottering (tg) gene2, causes a delayed onset, recessive neurological disorder in the mouse featuring a stereotyped triad of ataxia, intermittent myoclonus and cortical spike-wave discharges accompanied by behavioural absence seizures which resemble petit mal epilepsy3. Axon branches of the locus coeruleus, a noradrenergic brain-stem nucleus, hyperinnervate specific target regions of the tg brain4. The number of parent coerulean perikarya is unaffected, indicating a true proliferation of the terminal axonal arbor. With the exception of this unusually precise error of axonal growth, no other cytopathology has been identified in the tg brain. Here I present evidence that selective lesions of the central noradrenergic axons early in development limit the expression of the disease.
New and emerging antiarrhythmic drugs for atrial fibrillation: what may become available to the clinician in the near future.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia and a major cause of morbidity. In the past decade, there have been significant advances in the nonpharmacologic management of AF. However, despite these advances there continues to be a great need for antiarrhythmic drugs to suppress AF. Existing medications have moderate efficacy for AF termination and suppression and have significant associated side effects, limiting their use. The need for new therapies has spawned the growth of several exciting drugs at various stages of development for the medical management of AF. Some agents are derivatives of currently available compounds, whereas others have been newly developed to focus on novel ion current targets. Dronedarone is the first antiarrhythmic agent in a decade to be recommended for approval by the US Food and Drug Administration for the management of AF. It is expected to a have a dramatically improved side effect profile, which likely will be the key factor in its prominence in our armamentarium in the future; however, dronedarone appears to have only moderate efficacy. Other novel agents are in various stages of development. Vernakalant, an “atrial selective” compound, will be useful in the acute chemical cardioversion of AF but not atrial flutter. Although vernakalant is similar in efficacy to ibutilide, it carries a significantly reduced risk of torsades de pointes. Ranolazine, initially developed for treating chronic angina, has important effects on ion currents potentially useful in arrhythmia management. Clinical trials specifically studying AF suppression will need to be performed before the utility of ranolazine can be extended. It is hoped that as our understanding of the pathophysiology of AF improves, innovative targets for pharmacologic therapy will emerge. However, the challenge of proving efficacy and safety in large randomized controlled trials will remain for any promising new agent.
Single, separate, or something in between : Results of a survey on representing electronic serials in the catalog

Binghamton University Libraries have used a single record to catalog both print and electronic serials for many years. Proliferation of access to electronic serials has caused the libraries to consider whether the current cataloging model is the best way to present electronic serial holdings to patrons. In order to assist with the decision whether to change current practice and, if so, what changes to make, the author undertook a survey of current practice and perceptions regarding electronic serial record displays in the library catalog. This article describes current cataloging practice at Binghamton University, outlines the survey methodology, and presents and discusses the results of the survey.
The wealth of nature: economics as if survival mattered

Rise and fall of past civilizations and their lessons have sculpted the political, economic, and cultural landscapes upon which current societies are built. The cause and effect scenarios that defi...
When Data Curation Isn't: A Redefinition for Liberal Arts Universities

ABSTRACT. Data curation is one way that libraries are extending traditional services to meet the changing needs of patrons. Requirements from research funders have placed increased pressure on grant recipients to create Data Management Plans and to securely store raw data. Research universities have stepped up to provide comprehensive data support services. Despite discrepancies in funding and staff, smaller institutions can similarly provide robust services by focusing on their strengths, such as interdepartmental collaboration, flexibility, and rapid turnaround time. This article details how librarians at Trinity University adapted the larger practice of curation to meet local data management needs.
Improved detection does not fully explain the rising incidence of well-differentiated thyroid cancer: a population-based analysis

Abstract Background The increasing incidence of thyroid cancer may be an artifact of increased diagnostic scrutiny, permitting detection of smaller, subclinical thyroid cancers. Our objective was to examine trends in the incidence of well-differentiated thyroid cancers with large size and adverse pathological features. Methods Detailed population-based analysis of incidence trends in well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (1973–2006) in the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) cancer registry, using weighted least squares and Joinpoint regression models. Results The incidence of well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) in the United States has tripled since 1973 ( P 4 cm or >6 cm, have more than doubled in incidence ( P P Conclusions While the model of improving screening does explain increased diagnoses of small thyroid cancers, significant rises in the incidence of large cancers, and cancers with clinically significant pathological adverse features, are harder to explain. Alternative hypotheses, including a true increase in cancer incidence, would seem to merit exploration.
Plasma-polymerized multistacked bipolar gate dielectric for organic thin-film transistors

Abstract A 10-layer stack of bipolar gate dielectric was formed by sequential layer-by-layer deposition using pulsed radio frequency (RF) plasma polymerization of allylamine and vinyl acetic acid monomers. Due to polar groups localized at the interfaces between each consecutive layer by alternating amine (–NH2) and carboxylic acid (–COOH) functional groups, a 60 nm thick multilayer structure demonstrated relatively high dielectric constant of 4.4 with extremely smooth and crack/pin-hole free surfaces. Without any post-deposition thermal annealing, a 10-layer stack of bipolar dielectric layers shows a low leakage current density (∼1 × 10−6 A/cm2 at 2 MV/cm) with high breakdown fields (>4 MV/cm). With a 10-layer stack of bipolar gate dielectrics, low supply voltage regioregular poly-(3-hexythiophene) (P3HT) organic thin-film transistors (OTFT) were tested. P3HT OTFTs demonstrated low-voltage operation and moderate field-effect mobility up to ∼3.4 × 10−3 cm2/V s in the saturation region with the drain voltage a −12 V. The threshold voltage in the saturation region and on–off current ratio were measured to be +1.4 V and ∼1.2 × 102, respectively.
Direct Effects of Hypoosmolality on Vascular Resistance and Myocardial Contractile Force

SummaryHemodialysis was used to study the direct effects of acute hypoosmolality upon the resistance to blood flow through the gracilis and coronary vascular beds and upon left ventricular contractile force in the dog. When sodium chloride was removed from the blood perfusing the gracilis vascular bed, resistance increased linearly over the range 300-225 mOsm/kg. A 10% decrease in osmolality produces a 20% increase in resistance. When the removed sodium chloride was replaced with mannitol such that plasma osmolality did not change, resistance rose slightly but failed to regularly return to the control value. Hypoosmolality also raised coronary vascular resistance and this was associated with an increase in left ventricular force. Thus direct effects of hypoosmolality on peripheral vascular beds and perhaps myocardium may participate in the compensatory mechanisms that tend to stabilize blood pressure during hypo-osmotic states such as acute salt depletion.
Structure of the p(2×1)-oxygen/Mo0.75Re0.25(001) surface studied by low energy Li+ ion scattering

Abstract Low energy alkali ion scattering, low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) were used to study the adsorption of oxygen on the Mo 0.75 Re 0.25 (001) surface. Annealing to 1400 K in a limited coverage range produces a phase with chemisorbed oxygen and a structure characterized by a sharp p(2 × 1) LEED pattern. AES and ion scattering evidence indicates that the oxygen coverage is about 0.8 to 1.0 ML and shows that this structure contains vacancies ordered into missing rows. Oxygen atoms are adsorbed near three-fold hollow sites which result from the vacancy formation. Oxygen is found to induce loss of Re from the first and second layers in a thermally activated place exchange with Mo atoms. The structural features found are discussed and compared with previous results from oxygen adsorption on Mo(001) and W(001) surfaces and the effect of oxygen on the component depth profile is explained on the basis structural and thermodynamic stability.
The effect of temperature on growth of juvenile bloater

Abstract The bloater ( Coregonus hoyi ), which feeds mainly on invertebrates and in turn is eaten by lake trout ( Salvelinus namaycush ) and burbot ( Lota lota ), is a major trophic integrator in coldwater ecosystems in the upper Great Lakes. To better understand their thermal niche and habitat distribution, we acclimated groups of yearling bloater to 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 25°C and then fed them ad libitum for 35 days. Bloater increased in length and weight at all of the test temperatures and at the end of the study were heaviest and longest at 15–20°C. The specific growth rate was highest at 20°C and progressively lower at 15, 25, 10, 5, and 3°C. A curve fitted to the specific growth rate data indicated that the optimum temperature for growth was 18.6°C. Our results are in agreement with other published information on the thermal ecology of juvenile bloater.
Turnover of Axonally Transported Phospholipids in Nerve Endings of Retinal Ganglion Cells

— We have investigated the metabolic turnover of axonally transported phospholipids in myelinated axons (optic tract) and nerve endings (superior colliculus) of retinal ganglion cells. One week following intraocular injection of [2-3H]glycerol, turnover rates for individual phospholipid classes in the retina (which contains a number of other cell types in addition to the ganglion cells) were all very similar to each other, with apparent half-lives of approximately 7 days. Apparent half-lives of labeled phospholipids in superior colliculus (presumably primarily in retinal ganglion cell nerve endings) were 10 days for both choline and inositol phosphoglycerides and 13 days for both serine and diacylethanolamine phosphoglycerides. Subcellular fractionation data obtained from superior colliculus at various times after injection suggested that apparent turnover rates determined for nerve ending phospholipids probably were not significantly affected by transfer of axonally transported 3H lipids into myelin. Apparent half-lives for phospholipids in optic tract were somewhat longer than in superior colliculus, ranging from 11 to 18 days. The slower turnover rates in optic tract may, in part, reflect the transfer of some axonal lipids to the more metabolically stable pool of lipids in the myelin ensheathing the retinal ganglion cell axons. In both optic tract and superior colliculus, apparent half-lives for axonally transported phospholipids labeled with [32P]-phosphate were only slightly longer than for [2-3H]glycerol, while those for [14C]choline and [3H]acetate were markedly longer, indicating differing degrees of metabolic conservation or reutilization of these precursors relative to glycerol.
Low-frequency stimulation induces long-term depression and slow onset long-term potentiation at perforant path-dentate gyrus synapses in vivo.

The expression of homosynaptic long-term depression (LTD) is thought to mediate a crucial role in sustaining memory function. Our in vivo investigations of LTD expression at lateral (LPP) and media...
Delineating the impact of Tai Chi training on physical function among the elderly

Abstract Background: Through a re-analysis of a Tai Chi intervention data set, the study objective was to determine which, if any, subgroups of the study sample evidenced differential benefits from the intervention. Method: Re-analysis of a Tai Chi intervention study, a randomized controlled trial in Eugene and Springfield, Oregon. Physically inactive participants aged ≥65 years were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Tai Chi ( n =49) and a wait-list control ( n =45). The main outcome measure was self-reported physical function. Results: Initial latent curve analyses indicated significant Tai Chi training effects: Participants in the Tai Chi group reported significant improvements in perceived physical function compared to those in the control group. However, there was significant interindividual variability in response to Tai Chi. The overall intervention effect was further delineated by identifying two subgroups. This delineation showed that Tai Chi participants with lower levels of physical function at baseline benefited more from the Tai Chi training program than those with higher physical function scores. Inclusion of additional measures of individual characteristics at baseline, change in movement confidence, and class attendance further explained differences in treatment responses. Conclusions: Findings from this study suggest that although an intervention may show an overall effect (or no overall effect), it may be differentially effective for subgroups of participants that differ in their pre-intervention characteristics. Examination of variability in outcome measures can provide important information for refining and tailoring appropriate interventions targeted to specific subgroups.
Urethral duplication with single bladder and multiple genitourinary abnormalities: an example of continent urinary diversion.

Abstract A 13-year-old girl with multiple genitourinary malformations, incomplete bladder exstrophy, urethral duplication with single bladder, septate vagina, and total urinary incontinence is presented. Prior to admission she had undergone surgery for teratoma and calculi of the bladder and partial fecal incontinence. A continent urinary diversion was done by bladder augmentation using a cecalcolonic segment and by surgical closure of the bladder neck. The distal end of the appendix was brought to the skin as an inconspicuous, easily catheterizable, watertight stoma, our modification of the Mitrofanoff procedure. Excision of the vaginal septum, creation of an introitus, and unification of the split clitoris improved the cosmetic appearance of the external genitalia and improved the outlook for a normal sexual life and pregnancy.
Study of Local Molecular Ordering in Layered Surfactant-silicate Mesophase Composites

We have synthesized layered surfactant-silicate mesophase composites using surfactant-templated synthetic routes under hydrothermal conditions. Local molecular ordering in both the bound surfactant and the inorganic framework for these mesophase composites has been observed and investigated using solid-state NMR and X-ray diffraction techniques. Synthesis parameters were systematically varied to determine the key factors that influence the molecular-ordering process. The dynamics and mobility of surfactant molecules at the interface have also been examined using NMR chemical-shift analyses, relaxation-time studies, and 2D WISE measurements. Results from this current work are compared with studies reported on other surfactant-silicate mesoporous materials.
Cell signaling: moving to a Wnt-Rap.

Non-canonical, β-catenin-independent Wnt signaling regulates cell polarization and movements. A recent study reveals that casein kinase Iɛ mediates an additional novel non-canonical Wnt pathway via the activation of the Rap1 GTPase during vertebrate gastrulation.
Developmental anomalies of the skin

This paper focuses on the diagnosis and management of developmental anomalies of the skin that may be seen early in life. Common locations include the head, nose, preauricular area of the face, neck, and spine. Those that occur in or near the midline can be more serious because of possible intracranial connections. Radiologic imaging of the areas of involvement is often important; computed tomography (CT) scans can delineate bony defects; whereas, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) more clearly defines intracranial connections. Occult spinal dysraphism can be suspected when certain cutaneous signs are present.
Brain Capillary Blockage Produced by a Virulent Strain of Rodent Malaria

A sudden enhancement in virulence of a mild Plasmodium berghei yoelii 17 x strain resulted in fulminating and fatal infections in CF1 and A/J mice. The virulent strain has maintained its characteristics after ten cyclical transmissions through Anopheles stephensi. The visible expression of virulence of the mutated strain is its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and cause intravascular sequestration of injected erythrocytes and blockage of brain capillaries. We, therfore, believe that the virulent line of Plasmodium berghei yoelii 17 x could serve as a useful laboratory model for the study of "cerebral malaria."
Changes in Attitudes and Characteristics of Marine Recruits during the 1960S

Comparative analyses were computed upon 14 attitude items and 8 biographical characteristics of 3 samples of recruits who had entered Marine Corps basic training in 1961, 1967, and 1969. Results indicated that of the 3 samples, the 1961 sample had the most favorable attitudes toward aspects of the Marine Corps, whereas the recruits from the 1967 sample had the least favorable attitudes. The average recruit from the 1961 sample was characterized as being younger, less well educated, and more likely to be unmarried than the average recruit from either the 1967 or 1969 sample. In comparing the samples from 1967 and 1969, the average recruit from 1967 was more intelligent, had attained a higher level of education, and was more likely to be unmarried than the average recruit from 1969. For each of the three samples, scores on the General Classification Test were significantly related to 4 of the 14 attitude items and level of education attained was related to one item. Seven of the attitude items became signif...
Stochastic properties of motoneuron activity and the effect of muscular length.

The activity of single motor units contributing to small tonic isometric contractions in human muscle at different muscular lengths was analyzed. The form of motor unit firing patterns shows that the interspike intervals compose independent sequences with about a 10% coefficient of variation and have a gamma distribution. The variability and the distribution shape curves show that as the mean interval decreases the variance also decreases and the interval density function becomes more symmetric. More significant is the fact that the form of the firing pattern remains unchanged when a motor unit has the same mean interval but with the muscle at different lengths. Comparison of these facts with experimental data from neuron models and cat motoneurons indicates that in the human the only relevant input-output relationship in motoneurons is that the net excitation adjusts the firing rate.
Manipulating terahertz beams using inhomogeneous artificial dielectrics

Using waveguide-based inhomogeneous artificial dielectrics, we engineer the path of a terahertz beam to loop around an object situated inline with the input optic axis, effectively rendering the object invisible to the beam.
Changes in lung water and capillary permeability following sepsis and fluid overload.

Abstract The presence or absence of permeability changes in the pulmonary parenchyma during sepsis is a controversial point in the literature. Clinical experience indicates an increase in pulmonary as well as systemic capillary permeability in septic patients. Eighteen dogs were studied. Ten received 4.8 × 109 organisms/kg of live Escherichia coli intravenously and were fluid overloaded in 5-cm H2O increments during a 6-hr period to a left atrial pressure (LAP) of 35 cm H2O; eight dogs were similarly volume overloaded without a septic insult. Cardiac output, extravascular lung water (EVLW), blood pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, LAP, and central venous pressure were measured in both groups at each LAP elevation. Results are: Group EVLW (ml/kg) Nonseptic + fluid ( N = 8 ) 6.3 6.8 8.6 11.7 - 11.2 Septic + fluid ( N = 10 ) 7.4 7.9 9.6 15.0 19.1 - LAP (cm H2O) 2–4 15 20 25 30 35 As seen above the septic animals had a greater increase in EVLW than the volume-overloaded dogs, reaching statistical significance at a LAP of 35 cm H2O (P
Insufficient interleukin-12 signalling favours differentiation of human CD4+ and CD8+ T cells into GATA-3+ and GATA-3+ T-bet+ subsets in humanized mice

Differentiation of CD4(+) T cells into type 1 or type 2 subsets is mediated by the expression of the opposing lineage defining transcription factors T-bet and GATA-3. However, the existence of GATA-3(+) T-bet(+) CD4(+) T cells in mice suggests functional plasticity of these subsets. Little is known about type 1 and type 2 plasticity of human T-cell subsets in vivo. Here, we show that in the xenogeneic environment of humanized mice, which lacks a functional immune-regulatory network, human CD4(+) and, notably, CD8(+) T cells preferentially differentiate into interleukin (IL)-4(+) GATA-3(+) and IL-4(+) interferon-γ(+) GATA-3(+) T-bet(+) subsets. Treatment with recombinant human IL-12 or expansion of IL-12-producing human dendritic cells in vivo reverted this phenotype and led to the down-regulation of GATA-3 expression. These changes also correlated with improved antiviral immune responses in humanized mice. In conclusion, our study shows the capacity of human CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells for stable co-expression of GATA-3 and T-bet in humanized mice and reveals a critical role for IL-12 in regulating this phenotype.
Image noise due to quantum fluctuations in flat-panel detector based cone-beam CT imaging

Quantum noise in cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging was studied to provide quantitative relationships among 3D cone beam image noise level and CT acquisition and reconstruction parameters, which include entrance exposure level, number of projections, and single detector size. It showed that the level of reconstructed image noise, which was caused by quantum noise in projection data, was spatially variant and related to the shape of the scan object, and that the image noise level was inversely proportional to the square root of entrance exposure level per projection, square root of number of projections, and square of detector size. Both computer simulations and real phantom studies were conducted to verify the derived quantitative relationships between image noise level and CT parameters. Shepp-logan head phantom was used in computer simulations to verify the theoretical relation between noise level and detector size, while a real cylindrical oil-uniformed phantom was studied to verify the theoretical relation between noise level and entrance exposure level. The real phantom studies were carried out on a flat panel detector (FPD)-based CBCT system available in our Lab. This work can provide a guide on how to balance various CBCT parameters to achieve satisfactory image quality with desired signal-to-noise ratio, specified spatial resolution, low contrast detectability and minimal x-ray radiation to patients.
Laparoscopic and Robotic Colorectal Surgery: A Comparison and Contrast

Laparoscopic surgery is now considered by many experts as the approach of choice for the surgical treatment of both benign and malignant colonic diseases. In contrast, robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is gaining acceptance and use in the colorectal surgery field. Currently, enthusiasm for the robotic platform, as a minimally invasive approach, has gained most interest for cases involving rectal surgery and pelvic anatomy. The robotic technique offers enhanced optics and mechanical instrumentation, which were designed to greatly improve visualization, exposure, and dissection in confined spaces such as the pelvic cavity. Nevertheless, during robotic surgery, attention to adjacent or distant operative field usually requires cumbersome repositioning of the camera and robotic arms. Thus, the robotic platform is best suited for surgical approach in a confined visual field and optimizes optics, fine tissue handling, and intracorporeal suturing technique, whereas laparoscopic surgery may be best suited for wider operative field of view and gross manipulation and dissection, requires smaller and fewer ports, and affords ready adaptation to various surgical maneuvers. In regard to colon resection, robotic surgery results in comparable short-term outcomes as compared with laparoscopy, although with longer operative time and higher expenses. Thus, the routine use of the robotic platform is not currently supported. However, robotic sigmoid colectomy may be beneficial for cases of complex diverticulitis. In addition, robotic sigmoid colectomy may be used in the teaching/training setting as a learning curve procedure before performing more challenging pelvic procedures. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic rectal resection represents the main indication of the use of the robotic platform in colorectal surgery. In this setting, its optical and operative attributes are actualized, whereas the laparoscopic pitfalls are maximally exposed. Although many rectal resections may be successfully accomplished using conventional laparoscopy, it requires extensive surgical expertise. Randomized controlled trials comparing laparoscopy with robotic technique for the treatment of rectal cancer are currently being conducted, and it will not be until the results of such studies are available that we can draw solid conclusions regarding the role of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of rectal cancer. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries are safe and viable techniques for the treatment of essentially all colorectal conditions requiring surgical intervention. To determine a suitable minimally invasive surgical approach, it is important to recognize that both laparoscopic and robotic surgeries present benefits and limitations as compared with each other. Hence, the ideal approach should ultimately result in the use of the technique most appropriate for the specific surgical indication, thus realizing the benefits and avoiding the drawbacks of the approach.
Transnational Corporations in the New International Economic Order

This essay assesses the forces and factors which are currently structuring international industry, focusing specifically on the impacts of government policies, the market orientations of TNCs, the nature of different markets around the world, and the effects of different technologies. These forces being uncoordinated are seen as shaping an international industrial order that is not consonant with the objectives of the New International Economic Order (NIEO); consequently, what is expected for the near term is a nationally oriented disintegration of the international economy resulting from struggles over the location of specific industries around the world that will not be resolved cooperatively. The most likely moves toward international industrial integration will occur within key sectors among members of a regional association. At present, it appears unlikely that significant moves will be made toward a new international industrial order in line with the objectives of the NIEO; yet, the TNCs would be effective means of achieving this goal if greater cooperation could be achieved between them and governments.
Simulation of Fretting Wear at Orthopaedic Implant Interfaces

Osteolysis due to wear debris is a primary cause of failure of total joint replacements. Although debris produced by the joint articulating surfaces has been studied and simulated extensively, fretting wear debris, produced at nonarticulating surfaces, has not received adequate attention. We developed a three-station fretting wear simulator to reproduce in vivo motion and stresses at the interfaces of total joint replacements. The simulator is based on the beam bending theory and is capable of producing cyclic displacement from 3 to 1000 microns, under varying magnitudes of contact stresses. The simulator offers three potential advantages over previous studies: The ability to control the displacement by load, the ability to produce very small displacements, and dynamic normal loads as opposed to static. A pilot study was designed to test the functionality of the simulator, and verify that calculated displacements and loads produced the predicted differences between two commonly used porous ingrowth titanium alloy surfaces fretting against cortical bone. After 1.5 million cycles, the simulator functioned as designed, producing greater wear of bone against the rougher plasma-sprayed surface compared to the fiber-mesh surface, as predicted. A novel pin-on-disk apparatus for simulating fretting wear at orthopaedic implant interfaces due to micromotion is introduced. The test parameters measured with the fretting wear simulator were as predicted by design calculations, and were sufficient to measure differences in the height and weight of cortical bone pins rubbing against two porous ingrowth surfaces, plasma-sprayed titanium and titanium fiber mesh.
Role of secondary sialic acid binding sites in influenza N1 neuraminidase.

Within influenza viral particles, the intricate balance between host cell binding and sialic acid receptor destruction is carefully maintained by the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) glycoproteins, respectively. A major outstanding question in influenza biology is the function of a secondary sialic acid binding site on the NA enzyme. Through a series of Brownian dynamics (BD) simulations of the avian N1, human pandemic N2, and currently circulating pandemic (H1)N1 enzymes, we have probed the role of this secondary sialic acid binding site in the avian N1 subtype. Our results suggest that electrostatic interactions at the secondary and primary sites in avian NA may play a key role in the recognition process of the sialic acid receptors and catalytic efficiency of NA. This secondary site appears to facilitate the formation of complexes with the NA protein and the sialic acid receptors, as well as provide HA activity to a lesser extent. Moreover, this site is able to steer inhibitor binding as well,...
Geographic variation in human papillomavirus vaccination uptake among 13-17 year old adolescent girls in the United States.

Geographic variation in provider-verified human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake among adolescent girls in the US has not been examined. To investigate this, we analyzed 2011 National Immunization Survey-Teen data. Among 13–17 year old girls (n = 11,236), weighted vaccine initiation (48.4%) and completion rates (30.6%) were the lowest in the South when compared to the Northeast (53.4% and 39.9%), Midwest (51.1% and 33.5%) and West (61.6% and 38.7%) (P < .001, both for initiation and completion). Multivariable log-binomial regression analysis indicated that 13–17 year old girls living in the South were less likely to initiate [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–0.97] and complete (aPR = 0.83, 95% CI, 0.74–0.93) the HPV vaccine series compared to girls living in the Northeast. Similar differences were observed when the uptake rates in the South were compared to other regions in the US. Intervention programs to increase HPV vaccine uptake and reduce regional disparities are warranted.
GENOMIC IMPRINTING IN DISORDERS OF GROWTH

Geneticists have known for many years that imbalances in the human genome and its expression cause disturbances that affect growth and development. Imbalance occurring because of a chromosome abnormality or because of mutation in a single gene often leads to abortion, stillbirth, or malformation. 21 It has been discovered only recently that imbalances also can occur as a result of disruption of a previously unimagined process, genomic imprinting. This review considers some of the evidence suggesting that imprinting occurs in humans and the current understanding of the ways in which abnormalities of the imprinting process cause nonneoplastic disease.
Neurotransmitter transporter family cDNAs in a rat midbrain library: 'orphan transporters' suggest sizable structural variations.

Abstract Assessment of neurotransmitter transporter family cDNAs in a size-selected rat ventral midbrain cDNA library suggests that this family is unexpectedly diverse and defines the sequence of an interesting ‘orphan’ member of this family.
Detection of Escherichia coli serogroups O26 and O113 by PCR amplification of the wzx and wzy genes.

PCR-based assays for detecting enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli serogroups O26 and O113 were developed by targeting the wzx (O-antigen flippase) and the wzy (O-antigen polymerase) genes found in the O-antigen gene cluster of each organism. The PCR assays were specific for the respective serogroups, as there was no amplification of DNA from non-O26 and non-O113 E. coli serogroups or from other bacterial genera tested. Using the PCR assays, we were able to detect the organisms in seeded apple juice inoculated at concentration levels as low as ≤10 CFU/ml. The O26- and O113-specific PCR assays can potentially be used for typing E. coli O26 and O113 serogroups; these assays will offer an advantage to food and environmental microbiology laboratories in terms of identifying these non-O157 serogroups by replacing antigen-based serotyping.
ISOMORPHISMS OF SPENCER-BROWN'S LAWS OF FORM AND VARELA'S CALCULUS FOR SELF-REFERENCE†

Exact isomorphisms with formal systems which employ the standard linguistic notations are established for Spencer-Brown's primary algebra and F. J. Varela's calculus for self-reference. The primary algebra is “essentially isomorphic” with classical propositional calculus, and the calculus for self-reference translates isomorphically into an axiomatization of S. C. Kleene's three-valued logic of partial recursion. This correlates Varela's “autonomy” with “total recursive undecidabilily,” and it suggests the use of Kleene-Varela type systems for discussing “mechanically unknowable” or empirically untestable system properties.