cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tai chi and self-rated quality of sleep and daytime sleepiness in older adults: a randomized controlled trial.

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of tai chi on self-rated sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in older adults reporting moderate sleep complaints. Design: Randomized, controlled trial with allocation to tai chi or exercise control. Setting: General community. Participants: One hundred eighteen women and men aged 60 to 92. Intervention: Participants were randomized into tai chi or low-impact exercise and participated in a 60-minute session, three times per week, for 24 consecutive weeks. Measurements: Primary outcome measures were the seven subscales of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), PSQI global score, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Secondary outcome measures were physical performance (single leg stand, timed chair rise, 50-foot speed walk) and 12-item short form (SF-12) physical and mental summary scores. Results: Tai chi participants reported significant improvements in five of the PSQI subscale scores (sleep quality, sleep-onset latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances) (P<.01), PSQI global score (P=.001), and ESS scores (P=.002) in comparison with the low-impact exercise participants. Tai chi participants reported sleep-onset latency of about 18 minutes less per night (95% confidence interval (CI)=–28.64 to –7.12) and sleep duration of about 48 minutes more per night (95% CI=14.71–82.41) than low-impact exercise participants. Tai chi participants also showed better scores in secondary outcome measures than low-impact exercise participants. Both groups reported improvements in SF-12 mental summary scores. Conclusion: Older adults with moderate sleep complaints can improve self-rated sleep quality through a 6-month, low- to moderate-intensity tai chi program. Tai chi appears to be effective as a nonpharmacological approach to sleep enhancement for sleep-disturbed elderly individuals.
Evolutionary equilibria : Characterization theorems and their implications

To understand the meaning of evolutionary equilibria, it is necessary to comprehend the ramifications of the evolutionary model. For instance, a full appreciation of Axelrod's The Evolution of Cooperation requires that we identify assumptions under which conditionally cooperative strategies, like Tit For Tat, are and are not evolutionarily stable. And more generally, when does stability fail? To resolve these questions we re-examine the very foundations of the evolutionary model. The results of this paper can be analytically separated into three parts. The first part is conceptual: it identifies the evolutionary model's assumptions and shows how different assumptions imply different types of evolutionary stability. The second part is deductive: it establishes necessary and sufficient conditions for the types of evolutionary stability identified in the first part, and demonstrates in which games these kinds of stability can (and cannot) be attained. The third and final part is applied: it relates the general findings (which are independent of the specific payoffs of any particular evolutionary game) to the issue of the evolutionary stability of cooperation. Results on cooperation appear throughout the paper as they both exemplify and motivate the general results. These results essentially explain when cooperation is and is not stable, and why, thus shedding new light on the meaning and applicability of Axelrod's widely known claims.
High-Resolution Aeromagnetic Study of the New Madrid Seismic Zone: A Preliminary Report

A high-resolution aeromagnetic survey, flown over the northern part of the New Madrid seismic zone in the Mississippi embayment, reveals linear features that generally parallel active seismic zones. This parallelism suggests that the linear magnetic features are related to faults. Modeling of these anomalies indicates that the associated magnetic sources are shallow, steeply dipping (>80°) prism-like bodies. Their tops at depths of about 1 km are considerably shallower than the depth of crystalline basement (roughly 3 km). The bodies are typically 2 km wide. A plausible explanation for these bodies is that the magnetization within the sequence of generally nonmagnetic sedimentary rocks has been enhanced within and adjacent to fault zones. Such a magnetic enhancement could arise in several ways, including the emplacement of igneous intrusions, the authigenic growth of pyrrhotite, or the conversion of pyrite to magnetite. Whatever the cause of the magnetization contrast, the apparent relation between linear magnetic features and faults may lead to permissible stress models that accommodate the fault pattern inferred from the magnetic field.
Detection of Nonrandom Association of Alleles from the Distribution of the Number of Heterozygous Loci in a Sample

ABSTRACT The distribution of the number of heterozygous loci in two randomly chosen gametes or in a random diploid zygote provides information regarding the nonrandom association of alleles among different genetic loci. Two alternative statistics may be employed for detection of nonrandom association of genes of different loci when observations are made on these distributions: observed variance of the number of heterozygous loci ( s 2 k ) and a goodness-of-fit criterion ( X 2 ) to contrast the observed distribution with that expected under the hypothesis of random association of genes. It is shown, by simulation, that s 2 k is statistically more efficient than X 2 to detect a given extent of nonrandom association. Asymptotic normality of s 2 k is justified, and X 2 is shown to follow a chi-square (X 2 ) distribution with partial loss of degrees of freedom arising because of estimation of parameters from the marginal gene frequency data. Whenever direct evaluations of linkage disequilibrium values are possible, tests based on maximum likelihood estimators of linkage disequilibria require a smaller sample size (number of zygotes or gametes) to detect a given level of nonrandom association in comparison with that required if such tests are conducted on the basis of s 2 k . Summarization of multilocus genotype (or haplotype) data, into the different number of heterozygous loci classes, thus, amounts to appreciable loss of information.
Inhibition of mouse-liver microsomal enzyme function after oral administration of sodium nitrite

Abstract The effect of a single oral dose of sodium nitrite on mouse-liver microsomal-enzyme activity was studied. Sodium nitrite (100 mg/kg) produced a rapid and marked inhibition of both aminopyrine-demethylase and aniline-hydroxylase activity. Inhibitory effects of approximately 50% were observed as early as 15 min after treatment and were still persisting at 90 min. The responses at 45 min after treatment were dose-dependent, no response being observed at 25 mg/kg. Daily oral administration of 25 or 50 mg sodium nitrite/kg for 8 days produced no subacute inhibition of microsomal-enzyme activity. The mechanism of this response involves non-competitive inhibition of enzyme activity. While 300 mg sodium nitrite/kg had little effect on the K m of aminopyrine demethylase. V was decreased from 2·35 to 1·54 μmols formaldehyde/g liver/hr.
Sodium Channel β Subunits Mediate Homophilic Cell Adhesion and Recruit Ankyrin to Points of Cell-Cell Contact

Sodium channels isolated from mammalian brain are composed of α, β1, and β2 subunits. The auxiliary β subunits do not form the ion conducting pore, yet play important roles in channel modulation and plasma membrane expression. β1 and β2 are transmembrane proteins with one extracellular V-set immunoglobulin (Ig) protein domain. It has been shown recently that β1 and β2 interact with the extracellular matrix proteins tenascin-C and tenascin-R. In the present study we show that rat brain β1 and β2, but not αIIA, subunits interact in a trans-homophilic fashion, resulting in recruitment of the cytoskeletal protein ankyrin to sites of cell-cell contact in transfected Drosophila S2 cells. Whereas αIIA subunits expressed alone do not cause cellular aggregation, β subunits co-expressed with αIIA retain the ability to adhere and recruit ankyrin. Truncated β subunits lacking cytoplasmic domains interact homophilically to produce cell aggregation but do not recruit ankyrin. Thus, the cytoplasmic domains of β1 and β2 are required for cytoskeletal interactions. It is hypothesized that sodium channel β subunits serve as a critical communication link between the extracellular and intracellular environments of the neuron and may play a role in sodium channel placement at nodes of Ranvier.
A Critical Review of Laser Photofragmentation/Fragment Detection Techniques for Gas-Phase Chemical Analysis

ABSTRACT A comprehensive review of Laser Photofragmentation/Fragment Detection techniques for spectrochemical analysis is presented. The techniques involve one and/or multiple lasers for both photolysis of the analyte and detection of the characteristic daughter photofragments. Fragment detection is accomplished by laser-induced fluorescence, photoionization, prompt emission, stimulated emission, and/or laser ionization recombination emission techniques. Recent applications of these techniques for chemical analysis include the detection of analytes by their characteristic atomic and molecular fragments. Various techniques are compared and contrasted, and future applications in analytical chemistry are discussed. A key to the main acronyms and abbreviations used in the text is provided in a glossary at the end of this review.
Vascular pseudoaneurysms in urology: clinical characteristics and management.

Abstract Background and Purpose: Vascular pseudoaneurysm is a well-documented complication that results after injury to an arterial wall. We review the urologic literature for all reported postprocedural and post-traumatic cases of pseudoaneurysm. Methods: A comprehensive review of the peer-reviewed literature was performed for reported cases of vascular pseudoaneurysm, with emphasis on clinical presentation and treatment options. Results: Vascular pseudoaneurysm is a high-pressure collection of blood that communicates directly with an arterial vessel. The clinical presentation varies, depending on the location and size of the lesion, and can be quite dramatic and potentially life threatening. There may be an increasing incidence of pseudoaneurysms after minimally invasive and laparoscopic techniques. Selective and superselective embolization is the preferred treatment for patients with vascular pseudoaneurysms. Conclusions: Vascular pseudoaneurysm is an important but rare complication that is increasingl...
A Comparative Study of Kinetoplast Ultrastructure in the Trypanosomatidae

SYNOPSIS. The kinetoplast and associated structures in Leishmanial tropica, Trypanosoma cruzi, T. lewisi, Herpeto-inonas culicis, H. muscarum and Crithidia fasciculata have been studied by electron microscopy of thin sections. The kinetoplast appears as a mitochondrion within which are antero-posteriorly oriented anastomosing fibers. In the three species parasitic in vertebrates there is a sharply delimited anterior zone where these fibers are thick and electron-dense. In the insect parasites the fibers form a looser network of approximately uniform density from anterior to posterior. The blepharoplast is the 9-fibered cylinder forming the base of the axoneme and extending below the base of the reservoir. A diffuse mass of electron-dense material surrounding this is the basal granule, visible also with the light microscope. The contractile vacuole appears in electron microsraphs as a clear area associated with Golgi material.
Characterizing Granular Mixing Homogeneity at Various Dimensionless Mixing Lengths in a Double Screw Mixer

Granular mixing processes are commonly used to increase product homogeneity in many industrial applications involving pharmaceuticals, food processing, and energy conversion. Determining the appropriate granular mixing length is necessary to avoid over/under mixing and unnecessary power consumption. The goal of this study is to experimentally characterize the granular mixing process and determine, under various operating conditions, the needed mixing length to achieve adequate mixing in a laboratory-scale double screw mixer. Nine different combinations of screw rotation speeds and dimensionless screw pitches are used to investigate the rate of mixing at dimensionless mixing lengths of L/D = 2, 5, and 10. Composition and statistical analysis methods are employed to assess mixing effectiveness, and it is determined that the dimensionless mixing length is the most influential parameter in terms increasing granular homogeneity. For all the conditions tested, the granular mixture approaches an acceptable level of mixing for all testing conditions when the dimensionless mixing length is L/D = 10. However, the segregation rate throughout the screw mixer is vastly different for various combinations of screw rotation speed and dimensionless screw pitch, and is partly attributed to the influence of entrance effects caused by the material injection process.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Passivating lithium electrodes with trimethylsilylacetylene

Abstract In this work, it was determined that the increase in electrode resistance as a function of immersion time was suppressed by coating lithium electrodes with trimethylsilylacetylene (TMSA). The increase in resistance as a function of time was determined to be 0.067 and 0.0035 Ω cm2/day for the uncoated and trimethylsilylacetylene-coated lithium electrodes, respectively. Additionally, in an experiment that simulated galvanostatic cycling conditions, the polarization during lithium deposition was 100 mV less for the trimethylsilylacetylene-coated electrode.
Iridoid and secoiridoid glycosides in a hybrid complex of bush honeysuckles (Lonicera spp., Caprifolicaceae): implications for evolutionary ecology and invasion biology.

Abstract Interspecific hybridization among non-native plant species can generate genotypes that are more reproductively successful in the introduced habitat than either parent. One important mechanism that may serve as a stimulus for the evolution of invasiveness in hybrids is increased variation in secondary metabolite chemistry, but still very little is known about patterns of chemical trait introgression in plant hybrid zones. This study examined the occurrence of iridoid and secoiridoid glycosides (IGs), an important group of plant defense compounds, in three species of honeysuckle, Lonicera morrowii A. Gray, Lonicera tatarica L., and their hybrid Lonicera × bella Zabel. (Caprifoliaceae), all of which are considered invasive in various parts of North America. Hybrid genotypes had a diversity of IGs inherited from both parent species, as well as one component not detected in either parent. All three species were similar in that overall concentrations of IGs were significantly higher in fruits than in leaves, and several compounds that were major components of fruits were never found in leaves. However, specific patterns of quantitative distribution among leaves, unripe fruits, and ripe fruits differed among the three species, with a relatively higher allocation to fruits in the hybrid species than for either parent. These patterns likely have important consequences for plant interactions with antagonistic herbivores and pathogens as well as mutualistic seed dispersers, and thus the potential invasiveness of hybrid and parental species in their introduced range. Methods established here for quantitative analysis of IGs will allow for the exploration of many compelling research questions related to the evolutionary ecology and invasion biology of these and other related species in the genus Lonicera .
A Mathematical Model for the Pressure-Flow Relationship in a Segment of Vein

The cross section of veins changes both in area and in shape as the transmural pressure varies. This implies that the relationship between pressure and flow in such collapsible vessels is not a linear one. In this paper, the techniques which apply to arteries are extended to include the case where the tube may collapse, as in the case of veins, and a relationship between pressure and flow is determined. The veins were considered to be long, straight, unbranched, and flexible, and the function which gives the cross-sectional area in terms of the transmural pressure was assumed to be known from other sources. The blood was assumed to be homogeneous, incompressible, and viscous. The equations to be solved were the linearized form of the Navier-Stokes equation and the continuity equation. An operating point was chosen and all variables were restricted to small neighborhoods about these operating points. The resulting analysis was identical to that for the arterial case except for the one condition that the cross sections were not circular. In this case, closed-form solutions to the equations were not available. It was shown that, as long as the velocity profiles were not needed, explicit solutions to the equations were not required. The relationship between the flow and the pressure was expressed in terms of the boundary conditions, the angular frequency, and the complex wave velocity. An expression for the complex wave velocity could be obtained only from a solution to the equations of fluid flow. However, it was shown that, except for a multiplicative constant, or "shape factor," the complex wave velocity was approximately independent of the cross-sectional shape. This permitted the use of the expression for the complex wave velocity which applies to the circular case. With this information, the pressure-flow relationship was comIpletely specified. This relationship was modified so that expressions for the fluid longitudinal impedance and the fluid transverse aamittance were obtained. In addition, an electric circuit analog was developed.
Restoration of γ-Sarcoglycan Localization and Mechanical Signal Transduction Are Independent in Murine Skeletal Muscle

Limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2C is caused by mutations in the γ-sarcoglycan gene (gsg) that results in loss of this protein, and disruption of the sarcoglycan (SG) complex. Signal transduction after mechanical perturbation is mediated, in part, through the SG complex and leads to phosphorylation of tyrosines on the intracellular portions of the sarcoglycans. This study tested if the Tyr6 in the intracellular region of γ-sarcoglycan protein (γ-SG) was necessary for proper localization of the protein in skeletal muscle membranes or for the normal pattern of ERK1/2 phosphorylation after eccentric contractions. Viral mediated gene transfer of wild type gsg (WTgsg) and mutant gsg lacking Tyr6 (Y6Agsg) was performed into the muscles of gsg−/− mice. Muscles were examined for production and stability of the γ-SG, as well as the level of ERK1/2 phosphorylation before and after eccentric contraction. Sarcolemmal localization of γ-SG was achieved regardless of which construct was expressed. However, only expression of WTgsg corrected the aberrant ERK1/2 phosphorylation associated with the absence of γ-SG, whereas Y6Agsg failed to have any effect. This study shows that localization of γ-SG does not require Tyr6, but localization alone is insufficient for restoration of normal signal transduction patterns after mechanical perturbation.
Genetic mapping of four dinucleotide repeat loci, DXS453, DXS458, DXS454, and DXS424, on the X chromosome using multiplex polymerase chain reaction.

Abstract Dinucleotide CA repeat sequences in the human genome have been shown to be highly polymorphic due to variation in the length of the repeat-containing segment. Therefore, these markers can serve as anchor loci in the construction of a highresolution genetic map of the human genome. In this study, we improved the efficiency of typing dinucleotide repeats using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Dinucleotide repeat sequences of four previously identified markers (DXS453, DXS458, DXS454, and DXS424) on the long arm of the X chromosome were simultaneously amplified in a single PCR reaction. This multiplex PCR was applied to genotype individuals from the 40 CEPH reference families, and the genotypic data were used to determine the map position of the four loci with respect to eight reference markers in the Xq region by linkage analysis.
Nutrients: Impacts and Determinants

Understanding the determinants of nutrient intake and the influence of nutrition on performance is critical in designing policies to alleviate hunger and malnutrition. A series of studies undertaken by the authors, which are synthesized here, analyzes the influence of prices, income, and women's schooling on the nutrient intake of those in developing countries and the effect of nutrition on health, productivity, wages, and fertility. These studies suggest that the impact of food price increases may be strong, particularly among those with the lowest incomes, that the growth of income may be less likely to improve nutrient intake than has been suggested by others, and that womzen's schooling is important in improving nutrition. These studies also indicate that nutrition exerts a positive influence on wages, productivity, and fertility. Our limited knowledge of the role and determinants of nutrition is reflected in the finding of unduly strong effects of seasonalitv on price-nutrition relations and the lack of a direct association between nutrition and health. The nutrition of poor populations is of substantial interest because of the widespread and plausible presumption that better nutrition improves the welfare of individuals in such populations. Nutrition also is of interest because of the common conjecture that better nutrition improves productivity. A series of our studies have analyzed the relations between nutrition and health, labor productivity, and fertility and the relations between prices, income, women's schooling, and nutrition intake. Here we synthesize the results of these studies and address some of the puzzles and policy implications that have arisen.'
Niche shifting in response to warming climate after the last glacial maximum: inference from genetic data and niche assessments in the chisel‐toothed kangaroo rat (Dipodomys microps)

During Pleistocene glacial-interglacial cycles, the geographic range is often assumed to have shifted as a species tracks its climatic niche. Alternatively, the geographic range would not necessarily shift if a species can adapt in situ to a changing environment. The potential for a species to persist in place might increase with the diversity of habitat types that a species exploits. We evaluate evidence for either range shift or range stability between the last glacial maximum (LGM) and present time in the chisel-toothed kangaroo rat (Dipodomys microps), an endemic of the Great Basin and Mojave deserts. We modeled how the species' range would have changed if the climatic niche of the species remained conserved between the LGM and present time. The climatic models imply that if D. microps inhabited the same climatic niche during the LGM as it does today, the species would have persisted primarily within the warm Mojave Desert and expanded northwards into the cold Great Basin only after the LGM. Contrary to the climatic models, the mitochondrial DNA assessment revealed signals of population persistence within the current distribution of the species throughout at least the latest glacial-interglacial cycle. We concluded that D. microps did not track its climatic niche during late Pleistocene oscillations, but rather met the challenge of a changing environment by shifting its niche and retaining large portions of its distribution. We speculate that this kind of response to fluctuating climate was possible because of 'niche drifting', an alteration of the species' realized niche due to plasticity in various biological characters. Our study provides an example of an approach to reconstruct species' responses to past climatic changes that can be used to evaluate whether and to what extent taxa have capacity to shift their niches in response to the changing environment - information becoming increasingly important to predicting biotic responses to future environmental changes.
Electronic transport of bilayer manganite La1.2Sr1.8Mn2O7

Abstract We report magnetoresistivity measurements on a La 1.2 Sr 1.8 Mn 2 O 7 single crystal. The charge transport in the ferromagnetic phase is dominated by two-magnon scattering in the high T range and by weak localization effects at lower T , in the non-metallic regime. In the paramagnetic phase, ρ ab ( T ) obeys the adiabatic small polaron hopping mechanism, while ρ c ( T ) follows an Arrhenius behavior with the same activation energy.
The relation between changes in patients' interpersonal impact messages and outcome in treatment for chronic depression.

OBJECTIVE Interpersonal theories posit that chronically depressed individuals have hostile and submissive styles in their social interactions, which may undermine their interpersonal effectiveness and maintain their depression. Recent findings support this theory and also show that patients' interpersonal impact messages, as perceived by their psychotherapists, change in theoretically predicted ways following cognitive-behavioral analysis system of psychotherapy (CBASP) alone or with medication. This study extended these previous findings by examining whether such changes were associated with their depression change and response status. METHOD Data derived from a large clinical trial for chronic depression compared the efficacy of CBASP, nefazodone, and their combination. To assess patients' impact messages, CBASP clinicians completed the Impact Message Inventory (IMI; Kiesler & Schmidt, 1993) following an early and late session. Our subsample (N = 259) consisted of patients in the CBASP and combined conditions who had depression severity data for at least 1 post-randomization visit and whose clinicians completed at least 1 IMI rating. We used hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) to calculate IMI change scores and to model depression change. We used HLM and logistic regression to test our predictor questions. RESULTS As hypothesized, decreases in patients' hostile-submissive impact messages were significantly associated with depression reduction (γ = 0.27, 95% CI [0.11, 0.43], p < .01) and favorable treatment response (B = -0.05, 95% CI [-0.09, -0.01], p = .03), regardless of treatment condition. CONCLUSIONS The findings support CBASP theory, suggesting that interpersonal change is related to depression reduction among chronically depressed patients.
An ontogenic study on the effect of catecholamine receptor-stimulating agents on the turnover of noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain.

Abstract The ontogeny of catecholamine-containing neurons and receptors in the brain sensitive to catecholamines was studied by examining (1) the decrease of dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) following synthesis inhibition, and (2) the ability of catecholamine receptor-stimulating agents to attenuate the decrease. Analysis was performed in rats at 4, 14 and 28 days postnatal age. NA and DA synthesis was inhibited by α-methyl- p -tyrosine methyl ester (MT), and apomorphine and clonidine were utilized as DA and NA receptor-stimulating agents respectively, and were injected 30 min prior to administration of MT. The brains were removed 2 h after MT and dissected into 4 regions: cortex, neostriatum, diencephalon, and midbrain-brain stem. The data obtained suggested that functional NA-containing neurons are present in the cortex and brain stem by 4 days of age, with feedback control over turnover of NA from effective postsynaptic receptors developing concurrently. Functional NA-containing neurons and receptors were not apparent in the diencephalon, according to criteria used in the present study, until 28 days. Functional DA-containing neurons appeared present in the striatum and diencephalon by 4 days of age, but ontogeny of the DA receptors and/or feedback control from effective postsynaptic receptors appeared to vary. These results were interpreted to suggest that the numerous mechanisms controlling the release of DA may be developing at different times. Additionally, clonidine, an NA receptor-stimulating agent, markedly reduced the rate of decrease of DA following synthesis inhibition in the striatum and diencephalon, particularly at 28 days of age. The possibility of an inhibitory input from NA onto DA neurons was considered.
The Overuse of Serum Ceruloplasmin Measurement

Abstract Background Wilson disease is rare, found in 3 of 100,000 people (0.03%). Ceruloplasmin is often ordered to evaluate liver enzyme elevations. Because Wilson disease often presents before middle-age, the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease recommends screening patients between the ages of 3 and 55 years with liver abnormalities of uncertain cause. We evaluate guideline adherence and the clinical and economic impact of current clinical use of ceruloplasmin. Methods We reviewed all ceruloplasmin measurements at a clinical laboratory that serves a large primary care network, specialty clinics, and a 600-bed tertiary referral center between January 1, 2003, and December 12, 2011. Results Ceruloplasmin was measured 5325 times in 5023 unique patients, resulting in 8 (0.16%) new Wilson disease diagnoses. Ceruloplasmin's positive predictive value was 8.4% (95% confidence interval, 7.7-9.3) and false-positive rate was 98.1% (95% confidence interval, 96.2-99.1). A total of 1109 ceruloplasmin levels (20.8%) were ordered in the 1066 patients aged more than 55 years (none with Wilson disease). A "shotgun" approach to liver disease diagnosis was found: Ceruloplasmin was ordered on the same day as hepatitis B (81.0%), hepatitis C (76.0%), autoimmune hepatitis (75.1%), and hemochromatosis (73.1%). Of 424 positive ceruloplasmin results, 91% were not pursued further. Conclusions Guideline adherence restricts ceruloplasmin use to a population with a higher pre-test probability of Wilson disease: patients with chronic liver disease aged 3 to 55 years who have been tested for common causes of liver disease. The majority of the serum ceruloplasmin was measured in patients not indicated by the guidelines, resulting in poor test performance and wasted healthcare resources. Our data on ceruloplasmin use could serve as a touchstone for broader discussions on rational clinical decision making.
Radical Institutionalism: Basic Concepts:

Radical institutionalism, though not as developed as its cousin, Marxism, is also a profoundly critical theory of industrial capitalism. Radical institutionalism is based on the works of Thorstein ...
CURRENT EPIDEMIOLOGY AND LABORATORY EVALUATION OF CONGENITAL SYPHILIS IN AN URBAN POPULATION † 1658

Among urban, parturient women in the US, the rate of positive serologic tests for syphilis is 2%-6%. The purpose of this study was to review the epidemiology of syphilis in our perinatal population and to determine if results of the routine laboratory evaluation affected infant treatment. Our publicly funded hospital delivered 12,922 infants in 1992 and 1993: 82% Hispanic, 13% black. Universal screening at delivery identified a positive MHA-TP in 345 women (2.2%). Medical records were reviewed for maternal history, demographic data, and infant's hospital course. Blacks had higher odds of positive serology vs Hispanics (odds ratio=11.3, 95% CI 8.8-14.3). Seropositive mothers with no treatment, undocumented treatment, partial treatment, or evidence of reinfection were considered untreated. Evaluations for congenital syphilis included a physical examination; complete blood count(CBC); platelet count; ALT, AST, and direct bilirubin; urinalysis; RPR and MHA-TP; cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cell count, protein, and VDRL; and long bone radiographs. Table
Distant touch hydrodynamic imaging with an artificial lateral line

Nearly all underwater vehicles and surface ships today use sonar and vision for imaging and navigation. However, sonar and vision systems face various limitations, e.g., sonar blind zones, dark or murky environments, etc. Evolved over millions of years, fish use the lateral line, a distributed linear array of flow sensing organs, for underwater hydrodynamic imaging and information extraction. We demonstrate here a proof-of-concept artificial lateral line system. It enables a distant touch hydrodynamic imaging capability to critically augment sonar and vision systems. We show that the artificial lateral line can successfully perform dipole source localization and hydrodynamic wake detection. The development of the artificial lateral line is aimed at fundamentally enhancing human ability to detect, navigate, and survive in the underwater environment.
Affinity Cross-Flow Filtration: Experimental and Modeling Work Using the System of HSA and Cibacron Blue-Agarose

A theoretical approach to the prediction of the performance of batch operation of affinity cross-flow filtration (ACFF) for the separation of biomolecules is presented. The model applies general affinity theory to the ACFF system. Experiments were conducted using the affinity system of Cibacron Blue-agarose and human serum albumin (HSA). The predictions of the model agree well with the experimental results. The slow kinetics of release of the adsorbed protein during the washing stage can be utilized to minimize the loss of this protein.
An investigation into the intra-sample variation in the color of cotton using image analysis

The colorimeter method is widely used to identify the color and grade of a cotton sample, but this method does not give information about the variation of color within the sample. We have conducted an investigation using an image analysis method to study the intra-sample distribution and variation in cotton color. High-resolution color images of cotton samples were obtained using a color scanner. For each image the Rd and +b values of the image and specific sub-areas within it were computed to analyze the color distribution. Intra- and inter-sample variations in Rd and +b values and color grade were compared with those obtained by the HVI system. The results show that for the same cotton substrate, although the variations among the color grades of different samples (replicates) may be very small, intra-sample color variations are evident, the colors of the sub-areas being distributed over a range of areas of the cotton color chart. In other words, cotton samples of the same overall color grade may exhibit...
Ribonuclease P processes polycistronic tRNA transcripts in Escherichia coli independent of ribonuclease E

The first step in the current model for the processing and maturation of mono- and polycistronic tRNA precursors in Escherichia coli involves initial cleavages by RNase E 1-3 nt downstream of each chromosomally encoded CCA determinant. Subsequently, each mature 5' terminus is generated by single RNase P cleavage, while the 3' terminus undergoes exonucleolytic processing by a combination of 3' --> 5' exonucleases. Here we describe for the first time a previously unidentified pathway for the maturation of tRNAs in polycistronic operons (valV valW and leuQ leuP leuV) where the processing of the primary transcripts is independent of RNase E. Rather, RNase P cleavages separate the individual tRNA precursors with the concomitant formation of their mature 5' termini. Furthermore, both polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) and RNase II are required for the removal of the 3' Rho-dependent terminator sequences. Our data indicate that RNase P substrate recognition is more complex than previously envisioned.
The effects of two microsporidian pathogens on the two-spotted lady beetle, Adalia bipunctata L. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae).

Abstract Two-spotted lady beetles, Adalia bipunctata L. are available for biological pest control in North America. Lady beetles are known to host microsporidia and although these pathogens are able to infect more than one host under laboratory conditions, little is known regarding the effects of more than one microsporidian pathogen on host fitness. In this study, egg cannibalism was used to examine the effects of the microsporidium Tubulinosema hippodamiae from Hippodamia convergens and an undescribed microsporidium from A. bipunctata (alone and in combination) on A. bipunctata host fitness (larval development and mortality, sex ratio, adult fecundity and longevity). Development was prolonged significantly for larvae that were infected with the undescribed microsporidium but T. hippodamiae had no effect and as a result, conclusions could not be made regarding the effects of both pathogens on larval development. The two microsporidia had no effect on sex ratios (1♀:1♂) or on adult fecundity and longevity. Spores were detected in the majority of smear preparations of individuals that were fed microsporidia-infected eggs and molecular analysis confirmed the identity of both pathogens in sampled individuals. T. hippodamiae spores were smaller than spores of the undescribed microsporidium (3.76 ± 0.03 × 2.32 ± 0.02 μm and 5.43 ± 0.06 × 2.75 ± 0.03 μm, respectively) and although the former stained less intensely than did those of latter, spores of the two pathogens are difficult to differentiate when examined by light microscopy alone. The ability of some microsporidia to infect more than one lady beetle host makes it difficult to conclude with certainty as to the number of species that are present in infected Adalia when specimens are examined solely by light microscopy.
Fatigue crack propagation and closure behavior of modified 1070 steel: Finite element study

Abstract A new finite element modeling methodology for simulating plasticity-induced crack closure is developed for the general purpose, commercially available, finite element code called ABAQUS. This new method utilizes substructuring techniques to maximize computational efficiency. This is achieved without sacrificing model accuracy in depicting the structural behavior of the specimen. Model refinement studies were conducted to establish guidelines for model parameters such as mesh density and element aspect ratio for the elements in the crack plane region. These techniques and guidelines were used to model a compact tension specimen and simulate a series of four tests conducted during the experimental portion of this study. Comparison of stationary crack and propagating finite element models revealed that plasticity-induced crack closure produces a significant amount of crack tip shielding. Such behavior effectively reduces the strain range and mean strain experienced at the crack tip. Direct comparisons between finite element model and experimental results were performed in terms of crack closure level, crack mouth opening displacement and surface strain gage data. These comparisons revealed excellent agreement. As a result of the study, use of an experimentally verified finite element technique in conjunction with fatigue crack growth experiments is suggested as a potential means of developing future crack growth rate models in terms of the traditional fatigue parameters of strain range and mean strain.
The pharmacology of neurosteroidogenesis

In adrenal cortex and other steroidogenic tissues including glial cells, the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone is catalyzed by the cytochrome P450scc located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. A complex mechanism operative in regulating cholesterol access to P450scc limits the rate of pregnenolone biosynthesis. Participating in this mechanism are DBI (diazepam binding inhibitor), an endogenous peptide that is highly expressed in steroidogenic cells and some of the DBI processing products including DBI 17–50 (TTN). DBI and TTN activate steroidogenesis by binding to a specific receptor located in the outer mitochondrial membrane, termed mitochondrial DBI receptor complex (MDRC). MDRC is a hetero-oligomeric protein: only the subunit that includes the DBI and benzodiazepine (BZD) recognition sites has been cloned. Several 2-aryl-3-indoleacetamide derivatives (FGIN-1-X) with highly selective affinity (nM) for MDRC were synthesized which can stimulate steroidogenesis in mitochondrial preparations. These compounds stimulate adrenal cortex steroidogenesis in hypophysectomized rats but not in intact animals. Moreover, this steroidogenesis is inhibited by the isoquinoline carboxamide derivative PK 11195, a specific high affinity ligand for MDRC with a low intrinsic steroidogenic activity. Some of the FGIN-1-X derivatives stimulate brain pregnenolone accumulation in adrenalectomized-castrated rats. The FGIN-1-X derivatives that increase brain pregnenolone content, elicit antineophobic activity and antagonize punished behavior in the Vogel conflict test in rats. These actions of FGIN-1-X are resistant to inhibition by flumazenil, a specific inhibitor of BZD action in GABAA receptors but are antagonized by PK 11195, a specific blocker of the steroidogenesis activation via MDRC stimulation. It is postulated that the pharmacological action of FGIN-1-X depends on a positive modulation of the GABA action on GABAA receptors mediated by the stimulation of brain neurosteroid production.
Capture, care, and captive breeding of 13-lined ground squirrels, Spermophilus tridecemlineatus

Researchers use the 13-lined ground squirrel for studies of hibernation biochemistry and physiology, as well as for modeling a variety of potential biomedical applications of hibernation physiology. It is currently necessary to capture research specimens from the wild; this presents a host of unknown variables, not least of which is the stress of captivity. Moreover, many investigators are unfamiliar with the husbandry of this species. The authors describe practical methods for their capture, year-round care (including hibernation), captive mating, and rearing of the young. These practices will allow the researcher to better standardize his or her population of research animals, optimizing the use of this interesting model organism.
Composition of Red Delicious Apples

The proximate composition and the water soluble vitamin and elemental composition of Red Delicious apples purchased from six marketing locations at marketing times near maximum and minimum product availability was determined. Ascorbic acid, niacin, vitamin B6, thiamin, folacin, Ca and Na were significantly (P < 0.01) higher in apples purchased in May (minimum availability) compared to those purchased in November (maximum availability). Values for ascorbic acid, vitamin B6, folacin, Ca and Fe were lower and Mg and Na were higher than tabulated values. The proximate composition and mean values for other micronutrients approximated those in Handbook 8.
Dynamic micromechanics on silicon: Techniques and devices

New fabrication procedures ate described for constructing thin, electrostatically deflectable SiO 2 membranes on a silicon wafer in a very controllable manner. Performance parameters of these membranes are analyzed and three examples of typical applications for the micromechanical structures are discussed: a light modulator array, a micromechanical voltage-controlled switch, and the measurement of the mechanical properties of thin insulating films unconstrained by the substrate. Since the lifetimes of the membranes can be very long (>1010cycles), their dimensions very small (8.3 µm long, 950 A thick have been demonstrated), and the fabrication technique is simple and versatile, the potential applicability of such devices seems promising.
Development of a measure of receptivity of the physical environment.

Purpose. New models of disability identify the importance of measuring the influence of the environment (environmental barriers) on the performance of persons with disabilities. The objective of this paper is to present a new measure of the receptivity of the physical environment for persons with mobility impairments and to offer preliminary information about its psychometric properties.Methods. The measure, The Community Health Environment Checklist (CHEC), was developed and validated in a community setting with a group of persons with mobility impairments. Sixty-three destinations (buildings, recreational areas or facilities) were assessed using the CHEC.Results. Using Cronbach's alpha, the CHEC was found to have an internal consistency reliability of 0.95. The content validity of the CHEC was assured by the development procedure.Conclusion. The CHEC offers a brief, easily administered measure of receptivity of the physical environment for persons with mobility impairments that is psychometrically sound.
The influence of dietary l-azetidine-2-carboxylic acid on catecholamine levels in the hemolymph and cuticle of the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea

Abstract The influence of L-azetidine-2-carboxylic acid (AZC) on catecholamine levels in the hemolymph and cuticle of the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea , was investigated. Feeding corn earworm larvae on a diet supplemented with AZC significantly reduced hemolymph levels of dopamine (DA) and N-β-alanyldopamine (NBAD) by at least 2–3-fold and to a lesser extent, the levels of N-acetyldopamine (NADA). This suggests that AZC has an inhibitory influence on the mechanisms involved in DA synthesis, catabolism or transport. NBAD was the major catecholamine in both hemolymph and cuticle of H. zea . Catecholamines were generally low in concentration during the larval feeding period but increased to highest levels during larval-pupal transformation. Conversely, catecholamine levels in cuticle were highest on day one of the fifth instar and then decreased to low levels thereafter. NBAD and other catecholamines were higher in day one cuticle of AZC fed larvae than in controls but not thereafter. DA and NBAD concentrations in the cuticle remained low throughout the larval instars, about 5–10 times lower than in the hemolymph. The pattern and temporal distribution of catecholamines during the larval-pupal transformation in this species was such that concentrations remained high in the hemolymph through post-wandering behavior, but low in the cuticle. Catecholamines became abundantly available in the cuticle for pupal sclerotization after pupation had occurred.
The uptake of O3 by myristic acid-oleic acid mixed particles: evidence for solid surface layers.

The oleic acid ozonolysis in mixed oleic and myristic acid particles was studied in a flow tube reactor using single particle mass spectrometry. The change in reactivity was investigated as a function of the myristic acid concentration in these 2 micron particles. For pure oleic acid aerosol, the reactive ozone uptake coefficient, γ, was found to be 3.4 (±0.3) × 10−4 after taking secondary reactions into account. At the myristic acid crystallization point, where only 2.5% of the particle is in the solid phase, the uptake coefficient was reduced to 9.7 (±1.0) × 10−5. This dramatic drop in the uptake coefficient is explained by the presence of a crystalline monolayer of myristic acid, through which ozone diffusion is reduced by several orders of magnitude, relative to liquid oleic acid. Scanning electron microscope images of the mixed particles confirm that the particle surface is crystalline when the myristic acid mole fraction exceeds 0.125. The findings of these experiments illustrate that particle morphology is important to understanding the reactivity of species in a mixed particle. The decay of myristic acid during the course of ozonolysis is explained in terms of a reaction with stabilized Criegee intermediates, which attack the acidic groups of the oleic and myristic acids with equal rate constants.
Mesmer's failure: sex, politics, personality, and the Zeitgeist.

Although he was an important link in the development of the concept of neurotic behavior and the therapeutic use of hypnotism, Mesmer has often been virtually ignored, possibly because of his discreditation by the Franklin Commission in 1784. Although his failure has been most commonly attributed to scientific and medical conservatism, there were a number of other factors which appear to have been of importance, including the general atmosphere of Paris, political agitation that became associated with his work, and sexual innuendoes that arose from the exotic nature of treatment in his famous clinic. Combined with his own ambitions and contentious personality, these factors destroyed his credibility and placed a cloud over hypnotic work for over half a century thereafter.