cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Young at Heart

In this issue of Cell, Loffredo et al. demonstrate that exposing an old mouse to the circulatory system of a young mouse reverses age-related cardiac hypertrophy. The authors demonstrate that this effect can be recapitulated by treating old mice with growth and differentiation factor 11 (GDF11). These data suggest that GDF11 therapy may be a useful tool in combating age-related cardiac hypertrophy.
Quantum Brownian motion in a periodic potential

We study the statics and dynamics of a quantum Brownian particle moving in a periodic potential and coupled to a dissipative environment in a way which reduces to a Langevin equation with linear friction in the classical limit. At zero temperature there is a transition from an extended to a localized ground state as the dimensionless friction \ensuremath{\alpha} is raised through one. The scaling equations are derived by applying a perturbative renormalization group to the system's partition function. The dynamics is studied using Feynman's influence-functional theory. We compute directly the nonlinear mobility of the Brownian particle in the weak-corrugation limit, for arbitrary temperature. The linear mobility ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{l}$ is always larger than the corresponding classical mobility which follows from the Langevin equation. In the localized regime \ensuremath{\alpha}g1, ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{l}$ is an increasing function of temperature, consistent with transport via a thermally assisted hopping mechanism. For \ensuremath{\alpha}1, ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{l}$(T) shows a nonmonotonic dependence on T with a minimum at a temperature ${T}^{\mathrm{*}}$. This is due to a crossover between quantum tunneling below ${T}^{\mathrm{*}}$ and thermally assisted hopping above ${T}^{\mathrm{*}}$. For low friction the crossover occurs when the particle's thermal de Broglie wavelength is roughly equal to the distance between minima in the periodic potential. We suggest that the regime \ensuremath{\alpha}1 describes the physics of the observed nonmonotonic temperature dependence of muon diffusion in metals.
Immediate Ascites Conversion of Mammary Tumors Induced in NYLR/Nya Mice by 7,12-Dimethylbenz-[a] Anthracene and Urethane Feeding and by Forced Breeding

Intragastric feeding of dimethylbenz-[a]anthracene in corn oil together with urethane in the drinking water and forced breeding were successful in rapidly inducing (2-4 months) mammary tumors (adenoacanthomas) in inbred NYLR/Nya mice, which have a low incidence of spontaneous breast tumors and of other tumors. The tumors could be quickly and permanently transformed to an ascites form by intraperitoneal inoculation of enzyme-dissociated cells and subsequent serial passage of free cells. Only 10 (3 in some cases) serial passages were required, thus conveniently providing multiple isogeneic carcinoma cell lines in this strain of mice. Some tumor cell lines proliferated strongly in the abdominal cavity even on the first passage.
Child support receipt: Does context matter? A comparative analysis of Colombia and the United States

Abstract Due to the high incidence of poverty among custodial-parent families, most countries have a variety of policies designed to increase these families' income security, including child support. However, despite policy efforts, in a wide range of countries the majority of custodial-parent families do not receive these transfers. Does this suggest that a low receipt rate is a core issue of child support policy across contexts? To explore this question, this paper focuses on child support receipt in two very different countries, Colombia and the United States. The overarching question is whether the country of residence is associated with the likelihood of child support receipt. The Colombian 2008 Quality of Life Survey and the U.S. 2008 Current Population Survey‐Child Support Supplement provide information on 6751 custodial mothers. Based on a series of probit models, our study shows that living in the U.S. is associated with an increase in the likelihood of child support receipt. However, once we control for custodial mother's characteristics, the marginal effect of country of residence decreases significantly, and variables such as custodial mother's education and income quintile become important as well. These findings suggest that in both countries custodial mothers have similar issues when it comes to receiving financial support from their children's father, despite the differences in economic development and attention to child support policy in Colombia and the U.S.
Flagellar basal apparatus and its utility in phylogenetic analyses of the porifera

A broadly based comparative study was initiated to assess components of the flagellar basal apparatus as a character set in phylogenetic analyses of poriferans. The flagellated (monociliated) epidermal cells of sponge larvae were selected for study. Taken together, they create a field of locomotory cells analogous to a multiciliated surface. Larvae of six species in four orders of the Demospongiae were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Results are compared with findings taken from the literature on larvae of five additional species of demosponges and four species of calcareans. Data were assembled on six components of the basal apparatus: (1) basal body, (2) basal foot, (3) accessory centriole, (4) transverse cytoskeletal system, (5) longitudinal cytoskeletal system, and (6) association with Golgi body. Where evidence permits assessment, all have Type II basal bodies. Basal feet are diverse and are subdivided into three categories based on structural complexity. The most anatomically intricate (Type III) is found only in larvae of Mycale spp. Accessory centrioles are present or absent depending on the species, but their occurrence is without overall taxonomic pattern. When present, accessory centrioles are oriented perpendicularly to the long axis of the basal body, but as ascertained from relationship to the anterior-posterior axis of the larvae they are without consistent orientation with regard to the plane of effective beat of the flagellum. Transverse and longitudinal cytoskeletal systems are also diverse among larvae. The existence of cross-striated rootlets is convincingly established only in larvae of calcareans, and such rootlets are present in larvae of all four calcareans studied to date. Three apparently new rootlet structures are described: lateral arms of the transverse cytoskeletal system from larvae of Aplysilla sp. and Haliclona tubifera; laminar sheets of the longitudinal system from larvae of Aplysilla sp. and M. cecilia; and paraxial rootlet in larvae of H. tubifera. A robust similarity in structure of the basal appartus is observed among the three species of halichondrids reported here for the first time. In comparison with the flagellar basal apparatus found in adults, those of larvae are more complex and more diverse. Review of studies on adult sponges that include information on the basal apparatus reveals the absence of a longitudinal rootlet system in all cases. Additionally, there exists a high degree of concordance between properties of the basal apparatus in the one sclerosponge and the one hexactinellid studied to date. These basal apparatus are also the simplest in construction of those found in sponges. Conversely, the basal apparatus of demosponges are varied. Although consistent presentation of the basal apparatus is evident in certain taxa, any discernable systematic pattern in their overall configuration remains obscure. Finally, we conclude that the flagellar basal apparatus of sponges is more similar to that found in choanoflagellates than it is to that observed in eumetazoans. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Preparation, structure, and digestibility of crystalline A- and B-type aggregates from debranched waxy starches

Highly crystalline A- and B-type aggregates were prepared from short linear α-1,4 glucans generated from completely debranched waxy maize and waxy potato starches by manipulating the chain length and crystallization conditions including starch solids concentration and crystallization temperature. The A-type crystalline products were more resistant to enzyme digestion than the B-type crystalline products, and the digestibility of the A- and B-type allomorphs was not correlated with the size of the aggregates formed. Annealing increased the peak melting temperature of the B-type crystallites, making it similar to that of the A-type crystallites, but did not improve the enzyme resistance of the B-type crystalline products. The possible reason for these results was due to the compact morphology as well as the denser packing pattern of double helices in A-type crystallites. Our observations counter the fact that most B-type native starches are more enzyme-resistant than A-type native starches. Crystalline type per se does not seem to be the key factor that controls the digestibility of native starch granules; the resistance of native starches with a B-type X-ray diffraction pattern is probably attributed to the other structural features in starch granules.
Late Cretaceous U–Pb tuff ages from the Skunk Ranch Formation and their implications for age of Laramide deformation, Little Hatchet Mountains, southwestern New Mexico, U.S.A.

Abstract LA-ICPMS U–Pb ages of individual zircon crystals from reworked ash-fall tuff beds in lacustrine strata of the Skunk Ranch Formation, a synorogenic unit deposited in a Laramide intermontane basin in the Little Hatchet Mountains, southwestern New Mexico, indicate an early Maastrichtian depositional age of 71–70 Ma. The dated beds are equivalent to nearby growth strata that are partially cut by, and folded over, a Laramide reverse fault. The strata thus record final displacement on the reverse fault and indicate an early Maastrichtian age for fault offset. The Skunk Ranch Formation was previously interpreted as Eocene in age and inferred to record the second event in a two-stage Laramide deformational history in the mountain range. In addition to significantly condensing the age range of the Laramide section and clarifying stratigraphic correlation in the Little Hatchet Mountains, the new ages of the formation also indicate that Laramide deformation in the range was likely restricted to a single Late Cretaceous episode.
Central corneal thickness and normal tension glaucoma: a cross-sectional study.

Background Recently published evidence has identified thinner central corneal thickness (CCT) as a strong predictive factor for the conversion from ocular hypertension (OHT) to primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The association between CCT and development of normal-tension glaucoma (NTG), however, is less clear. Accordingly, we designed this cross-sectional study to further explore the relationship between CCT and NTG. Patients and methods All patients with a clinical diagnosis of NTG and NTG suspect (NTGS) who were seen from September 2002 through May 2003 at the Albuquerque VA Medical Center eye clinic were identified retrospectively. After eligible subjects were categorized into no, mild, moderate, and advanced visual field loss groups, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analyses were used to determine group differences for several IOP variables, several systemic variables, and CCT. Additional analyses were completed after eligible subjects were recategorized into thin, intermediate, and thick CCT groups. Results Eighty-four eyes in 84 NTGS subjects and 56 eyes in 56 NTG subjects were studied. Mean CCT was significantly thicker in the no field loss group (NTGS) when compared with all 3 groups with glaucomatous visual field loss (NTG). In multivariate regression analysis, the association between CCT and the presence of NTG-related visual field loss was robust and independent. Conversely, no relationship was found between CCT and severity of NTG-related visual field loss. Conclusions In eyes characterized by statistically normal intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements as measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry, we found a significant relationship between CCT and the presence, but not severity, of glaucomatous visual field loss. A prospective study is required to further explore and confirm these relationships.
Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Osteomyelitis Mimicking Spinal Metastasis from Urothelial Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder

A 66-yr-old male presented with progressively worsening back pain 5 mo after undergoing radical cystectomy and bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection for bacillus Calmette-Guerin-refractory pTisN0M0 urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Imaging revealed lytic lesions in the 10th and 11th vertebral bodies of the thoracic spine that were suspicious for metastasis and cord compression. The patient underwent computed tomography-guided biopsy of the abnormalities, which showed no evidence of malignancy but revealed chronic inflammatory infiltrate with cultures positive for Mycobacterium bovis. The patient was treated with isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide.
Estimation of coefficients of individual agreement (CIAs) for quantitative and binary data using SAS and R

The coefficients of individual agreement (CIAs), which are based on the ratio of the intra- and inter-observer disagreement, provide a general approach for evaluating agreement between two fixed methods of measurements or human observers. In this paper, programs in both SAS and R are presented for estimation of the CIAs between two observers with quantitative or binary measurements. A detailed illustration of the computations, macro variable definitions, input and output for the SAS and R programs are also included in the text. The programs provide estimations of CIAs, their standard errors as well as confidence intervals, for the cases with or without a reference method. Data from a carotid stenosis screening study is used as an example of quantitative measurements. Data from a study involving the evaluation of mammograms by ten radiologists is used to illustrate a binary data example.
Remote sensing of phytoplankton community composition along the northeast coast of the United States

article i nfo Satellite imagery has proven to be a powerful tool for measuring chlorophyll a in surface waters. While this provides an estimate of total phytoplankton biomass, it does not distinguish between phytoplankton groups, many of which have functional differences and therefore affect biogeochemical cycles differently. Phyto- plankton pigment analysis has been used to quantify a wide range of photosynthetic and accessory pigments, and chemotaxonomic analysis (e.g. CHEMTAX) has been used to successfully quantify functional taxonomic groups in nature based on pigment distributions. Here, we combine CHEMTAX analysis with satellite-derived distributions of specific phytoplankton pigments to describe the distributions of particular components of the phytoplankton community in the northeast coast of the United States from space. The spatial and seasonal variations in phytoplankton community structure elucidated through satellite remote sensing methods gen- erally agreed with observations of abundance estimates of cell counts. Diatoms were generally the most abundant phytoplankton in this region, especially during Winter-Spring and in the inner shelf, but phyto- plankton populations shifted to increasing abundance of other taxa during Summer, especially offshore. While still preliminary, satellite-derived taxa-specific information with proper regional controls holds prom- ise for providing information on phytoplankton abundance to a taxonomic group level which would greatly improve our understanding of the impacts of human activity and climate change on ecosystems.
Bear's theorem with infinite lags

Abstract The effects of a lag-retiming on stability and speed of adjustment have been analyzed for systems of linear difference equations with constant non-negative coefficients. This note extends the results for finite lags to infinite lags.
Is there a role for measuring central aortic pressure

Peripheral brachial blood pressure measurements by sphygmomanometry remains the standard for measuring and managing blood pressure. Elevated brachial blood pressure is a major risk for cardiovascular disease, and reduction of bracial blood pressure decreases target organ damage and cardiovascular events. However, many patients still succumb to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and death even when the brachial blood pressures appear adequately controlled. Central aortic pressure may be more relevant to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, which is not always accurately represented by brachial blood pressure. Noninvasive applanation tonometry can now assess central aortic pressure easily and reliably. Emerging data suggest that central arotic pressure and related parameters are often better and more robust predictors of cardiovascular outcome than peripheral brachial blood pressures.
The Politics of Growth Revisited

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of labor market institutions and partisan politics on macroeconomic performance in advanced industrial societies since the mid-1970s. I do this by reevaluating some of the main claims of an influential comparative political economy literature of growth in light of some recent lessons from conceptual and empirical work associated with new growth theory. I also update the earlier "left-labor" models in light of several competing institutional explanations for different macroeconomic performance in advanced democracies. My findings are mixed. The evidence does suggest that congruent labor and political regimes have higher rates of growth than incongruent regimes (i.e., strong, organized unions with mostly conservative government or weak unions with mostly social democratic government). This appears to be true even in recent years and even after accounting for both cross-national income convergence and variations in political institutions and in firm-level ...
The Polya algorithm in cylindrical sets

Abstract We define the property “ E -cylindrical,” which relates to a subset of R m certain directed cylinders. We investigate some of the consequences of this definition, showing, for example, that polyhedral convex sets and smooth, rotund convex bodies are E -cylindrical. Suppose X is a finite set, F is the set of all real-valued functions on X , f ϵ F , and K ⊂ F is closed, convex, and E -cylindrical. For 1 p f p be the best l p -approximation to f by elements of K . We show that lim p → ∞ f p exists. We give an example to show that { f p } may fail to converge if X is countably infinite. We discuss the relationship between discrete ( l p ) and continuous ( L p ) approximation.
Hemodilution Elevates Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygen Metabolism During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Piglets

Background. Hemodilution continues to be widely used during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) for both adults and children. Previous studies with nonbypass models have suggested that an increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) compensates for the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity; however, this increased CBF is achieved by an increase in cardiac output. We hypothesized that even with the fixed-flow perfusion of CPB, CBF would be increased during hemodilution. Methods. Two experiments were conducted and analyzed separately. In each experiment, 10 piglets were randomized to two different groups, one with a total blood prime yielding a high hematocrit (25% or 30%), and the other with a crystalloid prime resulting in a low hematocrit (10% or 15%). Animals were cooled with pH-stat strategy at full flow (100 or 150 mL · kg 1 · min 1 ) to a nasopharyngeal temperature of 15°C, a period of low flow (50 mL · kg 1 · min 1 ) preceding deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (45 or 60 minutes), and a period of rewarming at full flow. Cerebral blood flow was measured at the beginning of CPB, at the end of cooling, at the end of low flow, 5 minutes after the start of rewarming, and at the end of rewarming by injection of radioactive microspheres. Results. Mean arterial pressure was significantly greater with higher hematocrit at each time point (p< 0.05). Cerebral blood flow and the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen decreased during cooling and further during low flow bypass but were significantly greater with lower hematocrit during mild hypothermia and at the end of rewarming (p< 0.05). Conclusions. Hemodilution is associated with decreased perfusion pressure, increased CBF and increased the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen during hypothermic CPB.
Aerobic Exercise Attenuates Reinstatement of Cocaine-Seeking Behavior and Associated Neuroadaptations in the Prefrontal Cortex

Background Exercise has recently been suggested as an attractive alternative to pharmacotherapy for treating drug addiction. The goal of this study was to determine, using an animal model, whether aerobic exercise may block reinstatement of cocaine-seeking and its underlying neurobiology (i.e., neuronal signaling in the prefrontal cortex). Methods Following acquisition and 10 days of 24-hour access to cocaine (1.5 mg/kg/infusion) or saline under a discrete trial procedure (four infusions/hr), rats began a 14-day abstinence period. During this period, rats were either given access to a running-wheel for 2-hours each day or placed in similar boxes with the wheel locked. Cocaine-seeking was assessed following the 14th day of abstinence using a within-session extinction/cue-induced reinstatement procedure. Neuronal activity was assessed by examining phosphorylated levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK) using Western blot analysis. Results Wheel running reduced cocaine-seeking during both extinction and reinstatement. Cocaine-seeking was positively associated with pERK levels in the prefrontal cortex. Although pERK levels were not different among saline controls, in the cocaine group, pERK levels were significantly decreased by exercise. Conclusions Aerobic exercise may reduce relapse vulnerability by preventing the increase in cocaine-seeking and associated neuroadaptations in the prefrontal cortex that develop over an abstinence period.
Some transport characteristics of aromatic polyamide membranes in reverse osmosis

The effects of solute concentration in the range of 0.0013 to 1.051 molality in the feed solution and operating pressure in the range of 100 to 900 psig on solute transport parameter DAM/Kδ in reverse osmosis have been studied for a class of laboratory-made aromatic polyamide membranes and aqueous sodium chloride feed solutions. The results showed that DAM/Kδ for NaCl increased both with increase in operating pressure and solute concentration in the concentrated boundary solution on the high-pressure side of the membrane. A general expression for DAM/Kδ for NaCl including the effects of both the above operating variables is given. These results are different from the corresponding results obtained for cellulose acetate membranes.
Vibration-Induced Frequency-Controllable Bidirectional Locomotion for Assembly and Microrobotic Applications

This paper describes vibration-induced bidirectional locomotion of a milliscale cylindrical body. Using a laterally vibrating platform, we achieved a frequency controlled bidirectional movement by attaching two polydimethylsiloxane cylindrical rods with microscale ratchet-shaped legs of different densities facing in opposite directions. The polymeric body (2 times 2 times 20 mm3) was placed on a glass slide covered by thin lubricating oil and vibrated at a constant amplitude of 0.2 mm. The micromobile composite cylinder changed its direction of motion at a cross-over frequency of 156 Hz. The cross-over phenomena is due to the difference between static and kinetic friction coefficients of the two opposing parts.
CONVENIENT SYNTHESIS OF BENZOYLECGONINE ETHYL ESTER, A HOMOLOG OF COCAINE

Abstract Benzoylecgonine reacted with tetramethylethylenediamine to form a lipophilic ion pair, which was alkylated in the absence of water. The ethyl ester was readily recrystallized for pharmacological studies.
POLYOL METABOLISM IN DIPLODIA VITICOLA DESM.

Abstract Mannitol, and to a lesser extent, arabitol, accumulated in the mycelium and culture filtrates of Diplodia viticola Desm. With continued incubation, both compounds decreased in amount. The extent of polyol accumulation in cultures of this organism appeared to be more closely related to the amount of mycelial glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity than d -mannitol dehydrogenase activity. Mannitol dehydrogenase from D. viticola has been partially purified and shown to require TPN as a co-factor. Other properties of the enzyme are described.
Elevated Delta-6 desaturase (FADS2) gene expression in the prefrontal cortex of patients with bipolar disorder

Although evidence suggests that a dysregulation in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) homeostasis may contribute to the pathoetiology of bipolar disorder (BD), there is currently nothing known about the expression of genes that mediate long-chain PUFA biosynthesis in BD patients. In the present study we determined FADS1 (Δ5 desaturase), FADS2 (Δ6 desaturase), HELO1 [ELOVL5] (elongase), PEX19 (peroxisome), and SCD (stearoyl-CoA desaturase [Δ9 desaturase]) mRNA expression in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of non-psychiatric controls (n = 12) and BD patients (n = 12) by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Changes in the activities of corresponding enzyme products were estimated from fatty acid product: precursor ratios. After correcting for multiple comparisons, FADS2 mRNA expression was significantly greater in BD patients relative to controls (+27%, p = 0.004). Indices of Δ6 desaturase activity, including 20:4/18:2 (+18%, p = 0.15) and 20:3/18:2 (+12%, p = 0.25) ratios, were numerically, but not significantly, greater in BD patients relative to controls. There were no significant group differences in FADS1 (+17%, p = 0.32), HELO1 (+4%, p = 0.81), PEX19 (-2%, p = 0.91), and SCD (+4%, p = 0.85) mRNA expression, or indices of Δ5 desaturase (+5%, 0.59), elongase (+3%, p = 0.62), and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (-11%, p = 0.10) activities. These preliminary findings demonstrate that FADS2 mRNA expression is significantly and selectively elevated in the prefrontal cortex of BD patients, and may contribute to dysregulated central PUFA biosynthesis and pro-inflammatory signaling implicated in the pathophysiology of BD.
Latitudinal variation in intertidal algal community structure: the influence of grazing and vegetative propagation.

The hypothesis that sea urchin grazing and interactions with turf-forming red algae prevent large brown algae from forming an extensive canopy in the low intertidal zone of southern California was tested with field experiments at two study sites. Experimental removal of sea urchins resulted in rapid algal recruitment. Crustose coralline algae which typically dominate the substratum in areas with dense urchin populations were quickly overgrown by several species of short-lived green, brown and red algae. The removal of urchins also significantly increased the recruitment of two long-lived species of large brown algae (Egregia laevigata and Cystoseira osmundacea at one study site and E. laevigata and Halidrys dioica at the other). The experimental plots at both sites were eventually dominated by perennial red algae.
Symmetry of superconducting compositions in the BaPb1−xBixO3 system

Abstract Reexamination of the symmetry of superconducting phases in the BaPb1−xBixO3 system was carried out by x-ray diffraction using a synchrotron source which offers exceptional resolution. These studies confirm our original finding of tetragonal symmetry. We believe that confusion on the symmetry has resulted because some compositions in this system are two phase mixtures.
Torsional oscillator and synchrotron x-ray experiments on solid He4 in aerogel

X-ray diffraction experiments show that solid $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ grown in aerogel is highly polycrystalline, with an hcp crystal structure (as in bulk) and a crystallite size of approximately 100 nm. In contrast to the expectation that the highly disordered solid will have a large supersolid fraction, torsional oscillator measurements show a behavior that is strikingly similar to high purity crystals grown from the superfluid phase. The low temperature supersolid fraction is only $\ensuremath{\sim}3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$, and the onset temperature is $\ensuremath{\sim}100\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{mK}$.
100 RECEPTOR BINDING OF SOMATOMEDIN/INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTORS (Sm/IGFs) ON CULTURED RAT ASTROGLIAL CELLS

In previous studies, we identified binding sites for Sm/IGFs on cultured astroglial cells purified from neonatal rat cerebral cortices by high resolution autoradiography. To further characterize these binding sites, we performed traditional binding studies. Binding for each Sm/IGF is specific, saturable and reversible, and 90% of the binding occurs within 6 hours at 4°C. Competitive binding with Sm-C/IGF-I yields curvilinear Scatchard plots, while studies with IGF-II and MSA yields linear plots, suggesting that two receptor species bind Sm-C/IGF-I and one binds IGF-II and MSA. These findings are supported by affinity crosslinking studies with labeled Sm/IGFs, using disuccinimidyl suberate as a crosslinking agent, followed by solubilization, reduction and analysis on SDS PAGE. 125I-Sm-C/IGF-I binds to moieties with Mr of 260K (the type II receptor) and 130K (α subunit of the type I receptor), while 125I-IGF-II and 125I-MSA binds primarily to the Mr 260K moiety. Concurrent studies of Sm/IGF stimulation of 3H-thymidine incorporation into astroglial cells reveal that both IGF-II and MSA are more potent than Sm-C/IGF-I. These data suggest that astroglial cells possess both type I and type II Sm/IGF receptors and that proliferation in response to Sm/IGFs can be mediated through type II receptors.
Dithiane- and trithiane-based photolabile scaffolds for molecular recognition.

A modular synthetic approach to novel dithiane- and trithiane-based photolabile molecular hosts equipped with elements of molecular recognition is developed. The approach provides ready access to a family of amino-derivatized photocleavable molecular systems capable of hydrogen-bonding-based recognition of biologically relevant molecules, e.g., ureas, barbiturates etc. These systems undergo efficient photofragmentation in the presence of external (e.g., benzophenone) or internal (e.g., nitropyridine) electron-transfer sensitizers.
Margaret Sanger and the Nazis: How Many Degrees of Separation?

One of the more pervasive features of our current poMtical culture is the "Nazificatiori" of one's political or ideological opponents. It seems scarcely a week goes by when some group isn't making a concerted effort to demonstrate v/hv its opposition bears more than a passing resemblance to Adolf Hitler or the Nazis. In an era that is increasingly characterized by absolutes, sweeping subjectivity, and an inability or unwulingness to find common ground or engage in critical thought, the tendency to radicalize the opposition naturally leads to the most extreme limits of human behavior. Among the most frequent targets of this Nazification in recent decades has been Margaret Sanger and, by association. Planned Parenthood. The syllogism that we most often find looks something like this: • Planned Parenthood was founded and primarily influenced by Margaret Sanger. • Margaret Sanger was a leading figure in the eugenics movement in the United States. • The eugerjcs movement in this country strongly influenced Nazi eugenics, and thus the Holocaust. • Therefore, a strong association exists between M. Sanger (and therefore Planned Parenthood) and the horrors of Nazism.
Memory of auditory lists by rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Monkey auditory memory was tested with increasing list lengths of 4, 6, 8, and 10 sounds. Five-hundred and twenty environmental sounds of 3-s duration were used. In Experiment 1, the monkeys initiated each list by touching the center speaker. They touched 1 of 2 side speakers to indicate whether a single test sound (presented from both side speakers simultaneously) was or was not in the list. The serial-position functions showed prominent primacy effects (good first-item memory) and recency effects (good last-item memory). Experiment 2 repeated the procedure without the list-initiation response and with a variable intertrial interval. The results of both experiments were similar and are discussed in relation to theories and hypotheses of serial-position effects.
Physical Fitness and Self-sufficiency in Persons Over 60 Years

The physical fitness factors of flexibility and muscular strength are discussed with respect to people over 60 years of age. Changes in joint ranges of motion and maximal muscular strength occurring with increasing age are presented. The relevance of these changes to activities of daily living and the maintenance of an independent lifestyle are the major theme of this article.
The Use of Natural Kinds in Evolutionary Developmental Biology

Evolutionary developmental biologists categorize many different kinds of things, from ontogenetic stages to modules of gene activity. The process of categorization—the establishment of “kinds”—is an implicit part of describing the natural world in consistent, useful ways, and has an essentially practical rather than philosophical basis. Kinds commonly serve one of three purposes: they may function (1) as practical tools for communication; (2) to support prediction and generalization; or (3) as a basis for theoretical discussions. Beyond the minimal requirement that classifications reflect biological reality, what sorts of kinds or classification will be useful in advancing a research program depends on the epistemological context. Thus, the important meaning of “natural” in “natural kinds” is not “natural with respect to nature,” but “natural with respect to the question.” This conclusion arises from the recognition that the proper role of concepts (e.g. natural kind, module, homology, model) is not to answer biological questions, but rather to help frame them. From a scientist’s perspective, arguing about the wording (or existence) of a single definition of “natural” or “kind” is beside the point: we get more work done by letting the question at hand determine what kinds of kinds are natural, on the basis of their ability to help answer it. We should be content to let “natural kinds” remain vague, multivalent, and–therefore broadly useful. For a philosopher like Hacking, the diverse, disparate, and ultimately incommensurable uses of the term “natural kind” have diluted its value so far that it loses all meaning. For practicing scientists, however, defining useful kinds in the context of particular questions and systems remains a productive epistemological strategy.
Amphibian embryo protease inhibitor. III. Binding studies on the trypsin inhibitor and properties of its yolk-bound form.

Abstract Amphibian embryo trypsin inhibitor (ATI) is shown to be a temporary inhibitor in which full trypsin activity can be eventually restored. Lineweaver—Burk plots and other binding data indicate a reversible change from competitive to non-competitive inhibition during incubation of enzyme with inhibitor in the absence of substrate. The inhibitor is active while sequestered in the yolk, and the sequestered inhibitor co-purifies with lipovitellin when the yolk is fractionated. It is further demonstrated that the inhibitor slowly leaches from the yolk in a soluble form, and it is suggested that this leakage is the result of a negative feedback controlled proteolysis within the yolk. Possible interactions between ATI and endogenous trypsin-like proteases are discussed with particular regard to the potential involvement of those materials in the control of certain developmental events; notably melanogenesis.
Path diversification: A multipath resilience mechanism

We present Path Diversification, a new mechanism that can be used to select multiple paths between a given ingress and egress node pair using a quantified diversity measure to achieve maximum flow reliability. The path diversification mechanism is targeted at the end-to-end layer, but can be applied at any level for which a path discovery service is available, e.g. intra-realm routing or inter-realm routing. Path diversification also takes into account higher level requirements for low-latency or maximal reliability in selecting appropriate paths. Using this mechanism will allow future internetworking architectures to exploit naturally rich physical topologies to a far greater extent than is possible with shortest-path routing or equal-cost load balancing. In this paper we describe the path diversity metric and its application at various aggregation levels. We then apply this metric to the path diversification process in the context of several real-world network graphs to asses the gain in flow reliability.
The nanny in the schoolhouse: critical reflections

What can narratives do for us? In this response to Grimes’ article, I endeavor to answer this question, considering the author’s story as both a space for unpacking and the complex intersection of identity, teaching and learning and as an effort to name herself in the midst of such complexity. Specifically, I address the raced, gendered, classed nature of the relationships that Grimes’ suggests facilitate science learning in her classroom, asking “What is gained or lost when students’ success is attributed to such relationships?”
Composite power system reliability assessment using maximum capacity flow and directed Binary Particle Swarm Optimization

This work introduces a new technique to reduce the search space in evaluating reliability indices of power systems. A new formulation for maximum capacity flow of the transmission lines was developed and used in truncating the state space to identify the definite success and definite failure subspaces. A new algorithm based on “directed” Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO) was developed to search for the designated success or failure states in the remaining part of the state space. The remaining subspace is system dependent, and in case of systems with high capacity and reliability transmission lines in comparison with generation and loading levels, the effect of this subspace on system reliability can be ignored without causing any significant error. This method is very simple and straight forward, yet it reduces the computational time significantly. The method progresses by calculating the total available power carrying capability at every bus and between buses for every system state. Incidence matrix technique was used in building Line Capacity Matrix (LCM). From the LCM and system state (Generation-Transmission-Load), reliability indices can be calculated. This method was applied on two systems, the IEEE RTS and the modified IEEE RTS and it gave promising results.
Kinetics of melittin-induced fusion of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine small unilamellar vesicles

Abstract We have studied the kinetics of fusion of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine small unilamellar vesicles at 51°C which is induced by bee venom melittin at a protein-to-lipid molar ratio of 1 60 . This was done by following with a stopped-flow fluorometer the reduction in the ratio of the excimer to monomer fluorescence intensities of 1-palmitoyl-2-(10-pyrenyldecanoyl)- sn -glycero-3-phosphorylcholine that accompanies fusion. At a low melittin concentration and low ionic strength, for which case the protein is monomeric, the value of the rate constant for fusion is 0.006 s −1 . This is much smaller than that of 0.06 s −1 obtained for a high melittin concentration at low ionic strength, i.e. for the protein in the tetrameric form which is not induced by a high salt concentration. The value of the rate constant for fusion for a low melittin concentration in the presence of 2 M NaCl, i.e. for the protein in the tetrameric form which is induced by a high salt concentration, is 0.12 s −1 . This is twice as large as that for fusion induced by the tetramer in a low ionic strength solution. These findings show that the state of aggregation of the protein in solution and, to a lesser extent, electrostatic interactions play an important role in the kinetics of melittin-induced fusion of vesicles.
Should endemism be a focus of conservation efforts along the North Pacific Coast of North America

Abstract Most documented extinctions of vertebrates in the last 400 years have been island endemics. In this paper, we focus on the need to develop a historical framework to establish conservation priorities for insular faunas and, in particular, to test the validity of nominal endemics. We use the example of the islands of the North Pacific Coast (NPC) of North America, a region that includes approximately one-half of all mammals endemic to North American islands north of Mexico (seven species and 67 subspecies). Few of these endemics have been re-evaluated since their original descriptions, although many of these islands have been heavily impacted by habitat conversion, species introductions, over-exploitation, and secondary ripple effects. Evidence from molecular genetics and paleontology suggests that many taxa arrived in the region since the last glacial advance. Some of these nominal endemics show minimal differentiation, while others comprise multiple evolutionary lineages. The NPC may also have played an important role in the in situ diversification of some taxa (paleoendemics) during the Pleistocene. Evidence, such as new fossil discoveries and numerous described endemics, lends support for refugia hypotheses. However, these ideas cannot be tested until a better understanding of geographic variation and the evolutionary relationships of the fauna and flora of the North Pacific Coast is developed. This framework would provide significant insight into the dynamic biogeographic history of the region and help prioritize conservation efforts.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy after hysterectomy: Comparison with conventional treatment and sensitivity of the normal-tissue–sparing effect to margin size

Purpose: To determine the influence of target-volume expansion on the reduction in small-bowel dose achieved with use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) vs. standard conformal treatment of the pelvis after hysterectomy, and to investigate the influence of patient body habitus on the normal-tissue sparing achieved with use of IMRT. Methods and Materials: A clinical target volume (CTV) was contoured on each of 10 planning computed tomography scans of patients who had been treated for cervical or endometrial cancer after a hysterectomy. Treatment planning was based on vaginal CTVs and regional nodal CTVs. To account for internal motion, margins were added to form an initial planning target volume (PTVA) as follows: 0.0 mm were added to the regional nodal CTV; 10 mm were added anteriorly to the vaginal CTV; and 5 mm were added to the vaginal CTV in all other directions. Two further PTVs (PTVB and PTVC) were produced by a 5-mm expansion of PTVA to give PTVB and a further 5-mm expansion to give PTVC. Treatment plans for all 3 PTVs were produced by use of 2 conformal fields (2FC), 4 conformal fields (4FC), or IMRT to deliver 45 Gy to more than 97% of the PTV. The primary goal of IMRT was to spare small bowel. The change in sparing that accompanied the increase in margin size was assessed by comparison of dose-volume histograms that resulted from PTVA, PTVB, and PTVC. Measured patient dimensions were correlated with bowel sparing. Results: Significantly less small bowel was irradiated by IMRT than by 2FC ( p p p p p p = 0.0002 and p = 0.008 for 2FC and 4FC, respectively). The amount of normal-tissue sparing achieved by use of IMRT vs. 4FC was inversely correlated with patient body mass index. Conclusion: Because the small-bowel sparing achieved with use of IMRT is markedly reduced by relatively small expansions of the target volume, accurate target delineation, highly reproducible patient immobilization, and a clear understanding of internal-organ motion are needed to achieve optimal advantage in the use of IMRT over conventional methods of posthysterectomy pelvic radiation therapy.
Relation of reading rate and rapid automatic naming among third graders.

The relation of reading rate and rapid automatic naming (RAN) for pictures was investigated for 31 third graders. Reading rate was measured as the num ber of seconds required for reading aloud a third-grade passage. Rapidautomatic naming was assessed with the RAN portion of the Woodcock Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Abilities. A moderate correlation of -.61 between the sets of scores suggests RAN assessment may be useful in screening for reading deficits in third-grade children.
On the additive semigroup of ordered semirings

An element x in a totally ordered (t. o.) semigroup (S,.) is non-negative (non-positive) if x 2 > x (x 2 x for all x ~n S and for some n depending on x). We shall examine in this paper whether the algebraic structure of (S,') may determine the order structure of (S,+) and also enquire whether the property of (S,.)
Arthroscopic image distortion—part II: the effect of lens angle and portal location in a 3D knee model

Distortion in arthroscopic views can interfere with accurate graft placement in ACL reconstruction, yet the effect of arthroscopic lens angle and portal location on image distortion is unknown. The purpose of this study was to quantify the image distortion resulting from the use of angulated arthroscope lenses through multiple portals, thereby identifying the optimal parameters to minimize distortion. A uniform grid of dots was attached to the lateral wall of the intercondylar notch of a Sawbones® knee model. The inferior half of the lateral wall was divided equally along the distoproximal axis into three regions—shallow, central, and deep. Each region was imaged using five different arthroscopic configurations [0° arthroscope through anteromedial (AM) portal, 30° arthroscope through AM and anterolateral (AL) portals, 70° arthroscope through AM and AL portals]. For each configuration, the differences in magnification and deformity ratios between the three regions were calculated. Less than 100 % of central region magnification was observed in the deep region, while more than 100 % was found in the shallow region. The AL approach produced larger magnification errors in the shallow region, as compared to the AM approach. Deformity ratios less than 100 % were found with both 0° and 30° arthroscopes, whereas deformity ratios exceeding 100 % were found with 70° arthroscopes. The least distorted and the most consistent image of the femoral ACL insertion is provided through the AM portal using either a 30° or 70° arthroscope lens. Surgeons should carefully select the arthroscope and portal to minimize image distortion and ensure accurate surgical procedure.
Nonlinear susceptibilities of molecular aggregates: Enhancement of χ ( 3 ) by size

We investigate the third-order nonlinear-optical susceptibility ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{(3)}$ in molecular aggregates and its scaling with aggregate size. The aggregate is modeled as a collection of N-interacting, homogeneously broadened two-level systems, where the interaction includes both the static dipole-dipole coupling and superradiant coupling. Our expression for ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{(3)}$, derived using Liouville-space Green-function techniques, contains contributions from excitons as well as biexcitons. The scaling of ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{(3)}$ with aggregate size and its dependence on the laser detuning and homogeneous and inhomogeneous dephasing rates are analyzed. ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{(3)}$ contains terms that scale as \ensuremath{\sim}${N}^{2}$ and \ensuremath{\sim}N(N-1). However, under off-resonant conditions these terms interfere destructively, resulting in a linear \ensuremath{\sim}N scaling, which is precisely what is expected for N monomers. Detailed calculations of phase-conjugate degenerate four-wave mixing and pump-probe spectroscopy are performed. In the first case we predict the existence of a narrow dephasing-induced resonance superposed on the broader superradiant exciton line shape. Pump-probe spectroscopy shows a series of biexciton absorption lines, some of which are superradiantly broadened.