cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Damping of electrostatic noise by warm auroral electrons

Abstract Cyclotron damping by warm electrons limits the amplitude of high frequency electrostatic waves propagating in discrete auroral arcs. The effect of this damping on whistler VLF hissupper hybrid noise and Bernstein modes is examined by calculating temporal growth rates and power flux intensities of amplified noise produced by precipitating electrons. The auroral electrons are described by a realistic distribution function. The effect of varying ionospheric conditions is also considered. Whistler mode noise is found to be less sensitive to the warm electron model than the upper hybrid mode. Bernstein modes are rapidly absorbed by the ionospheric and warm electrons. The difference in the peak power flux of the whistler and upper hybrid modes is indicative of the local value of the ratio of electron plasma frequency to electron gyrofrequency. For peak upper hybrid noise to exceed peak whistler noisethis ratio should be greater than 1. Ionospheric electron temperature has little effect on the spectrum, and intense narrow beams in the distribution function should be most effective at producing high noise levels for a given warm electron model.
Intraventricular injection of tachykinin NK3 receptor agonists suppresses the ingestion of NaCl-associated tastes

The present experiments evaluated whether a salty taste was required for injections of a neurokinin-3 (NK,) receptor agonist (senktide) to suppress intake or whether senktide would reduce the intake of tastes that are predictive of NaCl. During training, different groups of rats were given access to 1% almond + water, 1% almond + 0.3 M NaCl, or 1% almond + 0.1 M sucrose. On the test day, rats were administered intraventricular injections of either saline or 200 ng senktide and then given access to 1% almond + water. Senktide had no effect on the intake of the water-associated or sucrose-associated almond. In contrast, senktide significantly reduced the intake of NaCI-associated almond. Senktide had no effect on almond intake by water-deprived rats. These results show that activation of NK 3 receptors reduces the intake of NaCl and of a neutral taste that is predictive of sodium but not of calories.
Soluble c-kit receptor blocks stem cell factor bioactivity in vitro

Abstract Stem cell factor (SCF) is a growth factor that promotes the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of hematopoietic cells. SCF and its receptor, Kit, are normally present in both cell surface and soluble forms. Both forms of Kit can bind SCF. However, the function of soluble Kit is unknown. In order to determine if soluble Kit can modulate SCF activity, we produced a fusion protein, Kit-Fc, comprised of the extracellular domain of murine Kit and the Fc portion of human IgG 1 and investigated its ability to bind 125 I-SCF and to inhibit SCF-stimulated hematopoietic colony growth in vitro. Stable cell lines expressing Kit-Fc were generated and Kit-Fc was purified to greater than 95% purity. Scatchard analysis demonstrated that Kit-Fc binds iodinated SCF with high affinity (Kd 570 pM). Kit-Fc also bound to transmembrane SCF displayed on the surface of fibroblasts. The murine mast cell line IC2 was engineered to express murine Kit on the cell surface and was demonstrated to proliferate in the presence of SCF. Kit-Fc completely blocked SCF-stimulated proliferation of IC2-Kit cells, but not IL-3-stimulated growth of IC2-Kit cells, demonstrating the specificity of Kit-Fc. We investigated the ability of Kit-Fc to block SCF-stimulated murine hematopoietic colony growth. Kit-Fc blocked SCF-stimulated erythroid colony growth as effectively as a neutralizing anti-Kit monoclonal antibody, ACK2, but did not block erythropoietin-stimulated erythroid colony growth. Likewise, Kit-Fc blocked SCF-stimulated myeloid colony growth as effectively as ACK2 antibody, but did not block IL-3- or GM-CSF-stimulated myeloid colony growth. These results indicate that a form of soluble Kit binds SCF with high affinity, and can specifically block the ability of SCF to stimulate hematopoietic colony growth, suggesting that one function of soluble Kit may be to modulate SCF bioactivity.
Globalization and women's sports participation in Qatar

Background/Objectives: Qatar's entry to the global elite sporting scene, most obviously through its stunning coup to win the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, has been accompanied by pressure to increase participation of female athletes. In response, Qatar has dedicated considerable resources to women's sports and Qatari women have been prominently featured in the 2011 Arab Games and the 2012 Summer Olympics. Qatar officials have publicly voiced their hope that these women will serve as role models who encourage women and girls to engage in physical activity and sports. At the same time, lifestyle changes linked to globalization have wreaked havoc on the health of all Qataris, with rampant diabetes and obesity rates that are among the highest in the world. Women in Qatar may face particular constraints that make it potentially more challenging for them to engage in regular physical activity to combat these diseases. The particular question this study aims to answer is "are Qatari elite female athletes influencing women in Qatar to engage in physical activity/sports?" Method: We have utilized an 84-item survey to investigate what influences the physical activity of women in Qatar. The survey was open before, during and after the summer 2012 Olympics in English and Arabic. Results: The data reported here are based on one set of questions from the larger survey. We found that while personal role models such as friends and family play an important role in physical activity, public figure role models, such as those cited by Qatari officials, are far less frequently cited as influences and in fact, only one Arab public figure of any kind (celebrity, athlete, etc.) was mentioned as a role model for sports or physical activity participation. Conclusion: While the Qatari elite female athletes are smashing gender barriers, they have not yet started to function as significant role models for women in Qatar. Strategies to increase their effectiveness are identified. At this historic point in the development of elite female athletics in Qatar, the research provides data Qatari health officials can utilize in their attempts to combat diabetes/obesity and increase all women's activity levels.
Letter: A robust approach to empirical PDF estimate

This paper presents a robust approach to estimate the probability density function (PDF) from a sample data set. The approach is induced from entropy maximization using Renyi's quadratic entropy, and turns out to be equivalent to the support vector machines (SVM). Therefore, the approach has good properties of the support vector machines as a statistical function estimation method.
Gfra1 Silencing in Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells Results in Their Differentiation Via the Inactivation of RET Tyrosine Kinase

Spermatogenesis is the process by which spermatogonial stem cells divide and differentiate into sperm. The role of growth factor receptors in regulating self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells remains largely unclear. This study was designed to examine Gfra1 receptor expression in immature and adult mouse testes and determine the effects of Gfra1 knockdown on the proliferation and differentiation of type A spermatogonia. We demonstrated that GFRA1 was expressed in a subpopulation of spermatogonia in immature and adult mice. Neither Gfra1 mRNA nor GFRA1 protein was detected in pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. GFRA1 and POU5F1 (also known as OCT4), a marker for spermatogonial stem cells, were co-expressed in a subpopulation of type A spermatogonia from 6-day-old mice. In addition, the spermatogonia expressing GFRA1 exhibited a potential for proliferation and the ability to form colonies in culture, which is a characteristic of stem cells. RNA interference assays showed that Gfra1 small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) knocked down the expression of Gfra1 mRNA and GFRA1 protein in type A spermatogonia. Notably, the reduction of Gfra1 expression by Gfra1 siRNAs induced a phenotypic differentiation, as evidenced by the elevated expression of KIT, as well as the decreased expression of POU5F1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Furthermore, Gfra1 silencing resulted in a decrease in RET phosphorylation. Taken together, these data indicate that Gfra1 is expressed dominantly in mouse spermatogonial stem cells and that Gfra1 knockdown leads to their differentiation via the inactivation of RET tyrosine kinase, suggesting an essential role for Gfra1 in spermatogonial stem cell regulation.
The effect of sodium, potassium and ammonium ions on the conformation of the dimeric quadruplex formed by the Oxytricha nova telomere repeat oligonucleotide d(G 4 T 4 G 4 )

The DNA sequence d(G(4)T(4)G(4)) [Oxy-1.5] consists of 1.5 units of the repeat in telomeres of Oxytricha nova and has been shown by NMR and X-ray crystallographic analysis to form a dimeric quadruplex structure with four guanine-quartets. However, the structure reported in the X-ray study has a fundamentally different conformation and folding topology compared to the solution structure. In order to elucidate the possible role of different counterions in this discrepancy and to investigate the conformational effects and dynamics of ion binding to G-quadruplex DNA, we compare results from further experiments using a variety of counterions, namely K(+), Na(+)and NH(4)(+). A detailed structure determination of Oxy-1.5 in solution in the presence of K(+)shows the same folding topology as previously reported with the same molecule in the presence of Na(+). Both conformations are symmetric dimeric quadruplexes with T(4)loops which span the diagonal of the end quartets. The stack of quartets shows only small differences in the presence of K(+)versus Na(+)counterions, but the T(4)loops adopt notably distinguishable conformations. Dynamic NMR analysis of the spectra of Oxy-1.5 in mixed Na(+)/K(+)solution reveals that there are at least three K(+)binding sites. Additional experiments in the presence of NH(4)(+)reveal the same topology and loop conformation as in the K(+)form and allow the direct localization of three central ions in the stack of quartets and further show that there are no specific NH(4)(+)binding sites in the T(4)loop. The location of bound NH(4)(+)with respect to the expected coordination sites for Na(+)binding provides a rationale for the difference observed for the structure of the T(4)loop in the Na(+)form, with respect to that observed for the K(+)and NH(4)(+)forms.
Successful Planning for a Changing MIS Education

Abstract The pace of change in computer hardware and software, as well as budgetary pressures, has placed increased pressures on colleges and universities to deliver effective MIS education. An effective response to these pressures requires comprehensive planning. To be successful, such planning must begin with strategic planning at the institutional level and must include all special interest groups, including administration, faculty, students, staff, researchers, technical support, and advisory groups. Once an information technology plan is developed, academic administrators are better able to assure the alignment of the MIS education plan with the mission of the institution. From this alignment comes operational plans to implement the MIS education. This article presents a model for the process to achieve this alignment and, ultimately, effective MIS education.
Seasonal Development of Leptopilina boulardi (Hymenoptera: Eucoilidae) and Its Hosts, Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans (Diptera: Drosophilidae), in California

Laboratory and field studies conducted during 1982–85 examined seasonal development of Leptopilina boulardi Barbotin et al. and its fly hosts, Drosophila melanogaster Meigen and D. simulans Sturtevant. in northern California. Both fly species overwintered as long-lived fecund adults, presumably in a state of quiescence; no diapause was detected. In contrast, L. boulardi entered hibernal diapause as fifth instars within host puparia. In spring, reproductive activity of D. melanogaster and D. simulans resumed 2–3 months before reappearance of L. boulardi. Comparative developmental studies indicate that D. melanogaster and D. simulans have slightly lower thermal thresholds than their parasitoid (11.4 and 10.6°C, respectively, versus 12.8°C). and require significantly fewer degree-days (DD) to complete development from egg to adult (149 DD and 144 DD, respectively. versus 252 DD). These results indicate that the biological-control potential of L. boulardi is limited in northern California by the parasitoid's imperfect synchrony with seasonal occurrence and developmental cycles of its hosts.
Electromagnetic Field Analysis for a Coaxial Cable with Periodic Slots

The analysis deals with the excitation of coaxial structures with periodic apertures in the outer cylindrical shield. These apertures are taken to be finite circumferential slots of thin width. A quasistatic method is employed that reduces the problem to a field matching of angular wave functions over the angular extent of the slots. An approximate averaging technique is then used to obtain expressions for the effective admittance of the cable. It is then argued that this can be used to characterize the cable in more complicated environments.
Efficient multimedia image retrieval system

This paper describes a computationally efficient method for fast retrieval of color images of multimedia and imaging databases. Although the proposed algorithm can operate in an n-dimensional feature space for search, in our experiments we use only one 3D vector as key for indexing and searching color pictures of the selected archives.
IMC-C225, an anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody, for treatment of head and neck cancer.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck (HN increased expression is associated with enhanced tumour invasion, resistance to chemotherapy and decreased patient survival. Several approaches have been developed to achieve EGFR blockade as an anticancer treatment strategy, including an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody (mAb), IMC-C225, which competitively binds to the extracellular receptor site to prevent binding by natural EGFR ligands (EGF and TGF-alpha). Preclinical studies evaluating this chimeric mAb in human cancer cell lines in vitro and human tumour xenografts in vivo have demonstrated its potent antitumour activity. The clinical efficacy of IMC-C225 appears to involve multiple anticancer mechanisms, including inhibition of cell cycle progression, induction of apoptosis, anti-angiogenesis, inhibition of metastasis and its ability to enhance the response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Phase I studies of IMC-C225 combined with chemotherapy or radiation for SCC of the H&N demonstrate excellent response rates in patients with recurrent or refractory disease. Phase II and III trials examining the efficacy and safety of these combinations are currently underway. To date, IMC-C225 has been well-tolerated, with skin rashes and allergic reactions being the most clinically important adverse events reported. IMC-C225 displays dose-dependent elimination characteristics and a half-life of approximately 7 days. Current recommendations for dosing include a 400 mg/m2 loading dose, followed by weekly infusions of 250 mg/m2.
Dynamical implications of the orientation of atmospheric eddies: a local energetics perspective

A local quasi-geostrophic energetics analysis indicates that within the jet core, low-frequency (LF) eddies behave baroclinically essentially the same as high-frequency (HF) eddies. They both have a westward tilting vertical structure and both grow baroclinically by transporting heat poleward and by converting eddy potential energy to kinetic energy. However, the difference in the horizontal orientations of HF and LF eddies has several important implications to their amplitude and peak locations, as well as their interaction with stationary waves. The barotropic decay of meridionally elongated HF eddies tends to terminate the growth of HF eddies beyond the jet exit region. The barotropic growth of the zonally elongated LF eddies not only ensure a continuous growth of LF eddies in the jet exit region, but also results in a new baroclinic growth of LF eddies farther downstream due to the presence of the west–east temperature contrast associated with stationary waves. The continuous growth of LF eddies due to both barotropic and baroclinic processes in the jet exit region is consistent with the facts that LF eddies reach maximum variability farther downstream of the two major jet streams and that the LF variability is much stronger than HF eddies. The results of energetics analysis are confirmed by the feedback analysis, showing that HF eddies, being dominated by meridional orientations, mainly act to maintain (damp) stationary waves by locally enhancing (reducing) north–south gradient of the height (temperature) field near the jet core regions. The zonally elongated LF eddies, on the other hand, act to primarily reduce the zonal gradient associated with stationary waves both barotropically and baroclinically.
Lymphocyte Phenotyping to Distinguish Septic from Nonseptic Critical Illness

Background Clinical signs and symptoms of sepsis are nonspecific and often indistinguishable from those of nonseptic critical illness. This ambiguity frequently delays the diagnosis of sepsis until culture results can confirm the presence or absence of an infectious organism. Lymphocyte phenotyping can be conducted rapidly and may provide information on the presence of infection before culture results are available. In this study, we hypothesized that lymphocyte phenotype can distinguish between septic and nonseptic critical illness. Study Design C57Bl/6 mice were subjected to either P aeruginosa pneumonia or lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Animals were sacrificed 24 hours postinjury and splenic lymphocytes were harvested. Additionally, 13 patients in a surgical ICU were enrolled in the study. Whole blood was obtained and lymphocytes were isolated by density gradient centrifugation. Lymphocyte phenotype was identified through flow cytometry after labeling lymphocytes for CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD40, CD69, and CD86 with fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies. Results CD69 expression on B cells and CD8+ splenocytes from septic mice was significantly increased compared with acute lung injury mice (p Conclusions These data indicated that CD69 expression on lymphocytes may be useful in distinguishing between septic and nonseptic critical illness. Continued investigation into the expression of CD69 during sepsis is warranted.
Correlating Molecular Character of NIR Imaging Agents with Tissue-Specific Uptake

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent contrast agents are emerging in optical imaging as sensitive, cost-effective, and nonharmful alternatives to current agents that emit harmful ionizing radiation. Developing spectrally distinct NIR fluorophores to visualize sensitive vital tissues to selectively avoid them during surgical resection of diseased tissue is of great significance. Herein, we report the synthetic variation of pentamethine cyanine fluorophores with modifications of physicochemical properties toward prompting tissue-specific uptake into sensitive tissues (i.e., endocrine glands). Tissue-specific targeting and biodistribution studies revealed localization of contrast agents in the adrenal and pituitary glands, pancreas, and lymph nodes with dependence on molecular characteristics. Incorporation of hydrophobic heterocyclic rings, alkyl groups, and halogens allowed a fine-tuning capability to the hydrophobic character and dipole moment for observing perturbation in biological activity in response to mi...
The atherogen 3-methylcholanthrene induces multiple DNA adducts in mouse aortic smooth muscle cells: role of cytochrome P4501B1.

Objective: 3-Methylcholanthrene (MC), a polycylic aromatic hydrocarbon, induces atherogenesis in mice fed an atherogenic diet. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that MC would induce DNA adducts in mouse aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and that cytochrome P4501B1 (CYP1B1) plays an important role in the activation of MC to genotoxic intermediates. Methods: Cultured SMCs were treated with MC or the vehicle dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and DNA was isolated after 24 h. In some experiments, the cells were pre-treated with the CYP1B1 inhibitor 1-ethynylpyrene (EP) prior to exposure to MC. DNA adducts were determined by the 32P-postlabeling assay. Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase assay was measured by fluorimetry. Results: MC induced formation of 12 DNA adducts that were not observed in DMSO-treated cells. DNA adduct formation was dose-dependent, with maximum response observed at 3 μM. Pre-treatment of cells with EP dramatically suppressed DNA adduct formation by MC. MC treatment caused induction of CYP1B1, but not CYP1A1. Conclusion: The induction of high levels of multiple DNA adducts in SMCs by MC suggests that SMCs have a functional enzymatic machinery capable of metabolically activating MC to genotoxic metabolites. The significant inhibition by EP of MC-induced DNA adduct formation indicated that CYP1B1 was the primary CYP enzyme responsible for formation of genotoxic metabolites that may play a role in the induction of atherosclerosis by MC.
Role of elementary Ca2+ puffs in generating repetitive Ca2+ oscillations

Inositol (1,4,5)‐trisphosphate (IP 3 ) liberates intracellular Ca 2+ both as localized ‘puffs’ and as repetitive waves that encode information in a frequency‐dependent manner. Using video‐rate confocal imaging, together with photorelease of IP 3 in Xenopus oocytes, we investigated the roles of puffs in determining the periodicity of global Ca 2+ waves. Wave frequency is not delimited solely by cyclical recovery of the cell9s ability to support wave propagation, but further involves sensitization of Ca 2+ ‐induced Ca 2+ release by progressive increases in puff frequency and amplitude at numerous sites during the interwave period, and accumulation of pacemaker Ca 2+ , allowing a puff at a ’focal‘ site to trigger a subsequent wave. These specific ’focal9 sites, distinguished by their higher sensitivity to IP 3 and close apposition to neighboring puff sites, preferentially entrain both the temporal frequency and spatial directionality of Ca 2+ waves. Although summation of activity from many stochastic puff sites promotes the generation of regularly periodic global Ca 2+ signals, the properties of individual Ca 2+ puffs control the kinetics of Ca 2+ spiking and the (higher) frequency of subcellular spikes in their local microdomain.
Reanalysis of the RTOG study of the palliation of symptomatic osseous metastasis

This is a reanalysis of the data from the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) study of the palliation of metastasis to bone. The RTOG multicenter clinical trial studied pain relief in 759 patients randomly assigned to a variety of dose-fractionation schedules: 270 cGy X 15 fractions, 300 X 10, 300 X 5,400 X 5, and 500 X 5. The multivariate statistical technique of logistic regression was used. The results differed from a previous report in that number of fractions was statistically significantly related to complete combined relief (that is, absence of pain and cessation of the use of narcotics). Also, the time dose factor (TDF) isoeffect conversion did not accurately predict tumor response. The conclusion is that protracted dose-fractionation schedules are more effective than short course schedules.
Effects of sodium selenite on several blood components.

Abstract The effects of intravenous sodium selenite on several blood components were determined in dogs. Changes in plasma sodium, calcium, and phosphorus were inconstant. Although the terminal plasma protein levels were unaffected by low doses of selenite, 2.0 mg/kg Se produced an elevated plasma protein. Increases in hematocrit and plasma levels of potassium, lactate, and pyruvate were significant, as was the fall in venous pH. These findings may result from a combination of “epinephrine” release, decreased cardiac output and plasma flow, hemoconcentration, and enzyme inhibition.
Airborne Measurements Of European Atmospheric Scattering Coefficients

A discussion of a series of airborne measurements of atmospheric optical properties in Europe. Visible spectrum measurements made using an instrumented C-130 aircraft between 0.5 and approximately 6 km above ground level are described with respect to experimental procedures, results and application of the data to the determination of atmospheric contrast transmission. Data locations are illustrated as are the primary radiometer systems utilized to make the measurements. Sample data from flights conducted during 1976 and 1977 are presented illustrating irradiance levels beneath scattered to broken cloud decks, and total volume scattering coefficient variations as a function of altitude above ground level. Comparisons between scattering coefficient and relative humidity profiles are illustrated and the data base availability is reviewed.
Empirical and Numerical Modeling of T -phase Propagation from Ocean to Land

T-phase propagation from ocean onto land is investigated by comparing data from hydrophones in the water column with data from the same events recorded on island and coastal seismometers. Several events located on Hawaii and the emerging seamount Loihi generated very large amplitude T phases that were recorded at both the preliminary IMS hydrophone station at Point Sur and land-based stations along the northern California coast. We use data from seismic stations operated by U. C. Berkeley along the coast of California, and from the PG&E coastal California seismic network, to estimate the T-phase transfer functions. The transfer function and predicted signal from the Loihi events are modeled with a composite technique, using normal mode-based numerical propagation codes to calculate the hydroacoustic pressure field and an elastic finite difference code to calculate the seismic propagation to land-based stations. The modal code is used to calculate the acoustic pressure and particle velocity fields in the ocean off the California coast, which is used as input to the finite difference code TRES to model propagation onto land. We find both empirically and in the calculations that T phases observed near the conversion point consist primarily of surface waves, although the T phases propagate as P waves after the surface waves attenuate. Surface wave conversion occurs farther offshore and over a longer region than body wave conversion, which has the effect that surface waves may arrive at coastal stations before body waves. We also look at the nature of T phases after conversion from ocean to land by examining far inland T phases. We find that T phases propagate primarily as P waves once they are well inland from the coast, and can be observed in some cases hundreds of kilometers inland. T-phase conversion attenuates higher frequencies, however we find that high frequency energy from underwater explosion sources can still be observed at T-phase stations.
Computer modeling of sugar crystallization during drying of thin sugar films

A computer model was developed to predict drying and crystallization during processing of thin sugar films under the conditions of importance for sugar-coated cereals. The three-dimensional model analyzed simultaneous heat and moisture transfer, accounting for shrinkage, with temperature and moisture-dependent transport properties. Crystal growth was evaluated from crystallization kinetics based on supersaturation and temperature. The influence of growth on the solution concentration and drying were taken into account. Concentration profiles around the growing crystals during drying of the thin films were evaluated. The model predicts a concentration reduction around the growing crystals, and film temperatures that are higher than the drying temperature (as a result of the release of fusion heat). A phenomenon of case hardening was observed for dried films with a high density of seeds on surface.
Coronary Physiology in the Cath Lab: Beyond the Basics

The adoption of invasive coronary physiologic lesion assessment before percutaneous coronary intervention has become routine in many catheterization laboratories. In the last decade, numerous studies have demonstrated favorable outcomes for revascularization decisions based on in-lab coronary physiology in many patients. The use of coronary physiology in the laboratory has been identified as a class IIa recommendation for patients in whom the clinical presentation and supporting data are too inconclusive to make an objective decision regarding treatment. This article reviews pertinent concepts and studies of the more complex applications of translesional pressure measurements for optimal patient outcomes.
“Screen” and the Marxist project in film criticism

(1977). “Screen” and the Marxist project in film criticism. Quarterly Review of Film Studies: Vol. 2, No. 3, pp. 273-287.
Condensed tannin, an antibiotic chemical from Gossypium hirsutum

Antibiotic activity against Heliothis virescens was found in flower buds of Gossypium hirsutum, experimental stock Texas 254. Relatively low antibiotic activity was found in hexane extract, high activity in methanolic extract and residue, and no activity in acetone and water extracts. A condensed tannin having a molecular weight of 4850 was isolated from methanolic extract by column chromatography on Sephadex G-25. It was the major antibiotic component, 3.4% of the dried flower bud. The condensed tannin at 0.2% in the diet retarded larval growth by 84%.
Preparation and in vitro properties of 99mTc-fibrinogen.

Abstract We have developed a simple, mild and efficient electrolytic labeling technique for preparing 99mTc-fibrinogen for use in the radioisotopic detection of deep vein thrombosis. The method employs tin electrodes with in situ generation of Sn2+ as intermediate reducing agent for 99mTcO4−. Wide differences in labeling behavior are observed as the reaction conditions are varied. The optimum labeling system consists of 2 mg fibrinogen and the desired level of Na 99mTcO4 in 2 ml 0.01 M phosphate-0.15 M NaCl buffer, pH 6.0. The 99mTc-fibrinogen labeling efficiency is 70–80%, with a total preparation time of ca. 25 min. Sepharose-4B gel chromatography indicates that the non-protein bound radioactivity is in the form of a chelate derived from anions of the buffer system, with no free unreduced 99mTcO4− present. The labeled fibrinogen is easily separated and purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and shows good in vitro stability. The isotopic clottability of the product is 50–65%, depending on the species of fibrinogen. When prepared by the method reported here, 99mTc-fibrinogen appears to be a potentially useful radiopharmaceutical for external scintillation imaging of deep vein thrombi in patients.
Vesicoureteral reflux in children with urachal anomalies.

Abstract Objective We report the largest known series of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children with urachal anomalies (UA). Methods Two institutions’ records were reviewed for children with UA (1951‒2007). Results Of 30 girls and 36 boys with UA (34 urachal cysts, 14 patent urachus, 10 urachal diverticula, 7 urachal sinuses, and 1 unknown), 57 (86%) underwent surgical resection or drainage. A voiding cystourethrogram was obtained in 22 (33%). VUR was demonstrated in 14 of the 22 children (64%), and rates were similar among the various types of UA. The median age with versus without VUR was not different (1.3 vs 1.7 years, P = 0.97). Of 24 refluxing renal units, classification was grade ≤ 3 in 71%, 4‒5 in 12%, and unspecified in 17%. Four children (26%) underwent ureteroneocystostomy and 10 observed patients resolved spontaneously. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first series of VUR associated with UA. The increased incidence of VUR (64%) in this small subset of patients warrants prospective studies to determine if there is a positive correlation with UA. We believe thorough genitourinary and family histories are important when evaluating children with UA to help detect clinically significant VUR.
Monotonic matching in search equilibrium

Abstract It is well-known from Becker’s [Becker, G., 1973. A theory of marriage, Part I. Journal of Political Economy 81, 813–846] analysis of the neoclassical marriage market that matching is positive assortative if agent-types are complements in household production. Shimer and Smith [Shimer, R., Smith, L., 2000. Assortative matching and search. Econometrica 68, 343–369] have shown that this result does not generally extend to markets with search frictions, and they provide additional conditions on the production function that guarantee assortative matching in these settings. Here, the relationship between the Shimer–Smith restrictions and equilibrium matching pattern is considered, and alternative proofs of their results on assortative matching are provided.
Cochlear implant surgery in challenging cases.

AbstractExpanding selection criteria and increasing numbers of cochlear implantations have revealed several challenging cases with regard to surgery and medical point of view. Cochlear implantation of congenitally deaf children with inner-ear malformations may involve difficulties in preoperative evaluation, surgical approach and postoperative follow-up. Cochlear nerve aplasia (as evidence of only one existing nerve in three dimensional magnetic esonance imaging) and hypoplastic cochleas are among the most difficult cases and sometimes children are considered unsuitable for cochlear implantation. However, there is always the possibility that hypoplastic cochleas may include ganglion cells and the only nerve in the internal auditory canal (facial nerve) may contain auditory fibres as well. A positive history of auditory experience and evidence of electrical auditory brainstem response or response to the promontory or round window electrical stimulation may imply that a functioning auditory system is in pla...
symptom Experience in Women After Hysterectomy

Objective To review the literature addressing the symptom experience of women after hysterectomy. Data Sources Computerized searches in MEDLINE and CINAHL, as well as texts and references cited in articles. Key concepts in the searches included hysterectomy, sleep disturbance and pain, hysterectomy and fatigue, hysterectomy, depression, and depressed mood. Study Selection Articles and comprehensive works relevant to key concepts and published after 1970, with an emphasis on new findings from 1990 to 2000. Sixty-four citations were identified as useful to this review. Data Extraction Data were organized under the following headings: women and hysterectomy, biopsychosocial perspectives, common symptoms after hysterectomy (pain, disturbed sleep, fatigue, depressed mood, anxiety), and significance of review (implications). Data Synthesis Literature suggests that after a hysterectomy, women experience complications during the postoperative recovery period that may vary with the type of surgical procedure. During this period, the quantity and quality of sleep as well as other symptoms (pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression) are influenced by various physiologic, psychologic, and social factors. Despite limited evidence that sleep problems may occur frequently during the recovery period, only a few researchers have systematically examined sleep patterns in women after hysterectomy. None of these studies, however, used objective sleep measures or examined multiple dimensions of these women's lives. Conclusions This review conceptualized the women's symptom experience as the experience of specific symptoms (pain, sleep disturbance, fatigue, depressed mood, and anxiety) that were influenced by biopsychosocial factors.
Understanding compressive deformation in porous titanium

The aim of this study was to understand and compare the compression deformation behavior of porous metals with random and designed porosity. Direct observation, analysis and quantification of porosity parameters using microcomputed tomography (µCT) enabled the determination of relationship between porosity characteristics and compressive deformation of porous titanium. Porosity and pore size variations before and after deformation showed relatively uniform deformation in the sample with random porosity compared to designed porosity. Strong, continuous and regular arrangement of load-bearing sections in the designed porosity sample imparted higher Young's modulus and 0.2% proof strength than for the random porosity sample. The experimental results clearly showed the dependence of deformation behavior and mechanical properties on pore distribution and continuity of load-bearing cross-section.
Boundary-layer separation at a free streamline. Part 3. Axisymmetric flow and the flow downstream of separation

The results of Ackerberg (1970, 1971 a ), on the two-dimensional boundary-layer separation at a sharp trailing edge where a free streamline is attached, are extended to the axisymmetric case, with and without swirl. When the flow has swirl, the boundary-layer swirl velocity close to the wall may be opposite to that in the external flow; this may help explain the ‘bathtub vortex paradox’ observed by Sibulkin (1962). The solutions for the detached shear layers downstream of separation for two-dimensional and axisymmetric flows, with and without swirl, have been obtained. Some misprints in parts 1 and 2 are corrected in the appendix.
Test of Charge Symmetry of K + and K 0 Mesons in the Associated Production Process

The charge symmetry of K/sup +/ and K/sup 0/ mesons was tested by comparing e (as Fe/sup 59 /sup +/ and e (as Fe/sup 59 /sup -/ interactions at 1.23 Bev/c in the 72-in. deuterium bubble chamber. About 350 events of the type e (as Fe/sup 59 /sup +/ + d and up to st r K/sup +/ + in each case). (or / occurred in pu /sup 0/) + p and appeevents of the type e (as Fe/sup 59 /sup -/ + d and up to st r K/sup 0/ + in each case). (or /occurred in pu /sup 0ppared. Total cross sections, angular distributions, momentum spectra, and lambda decay asymmetries show no deviations from charge symmetry. Details on anglemomentum distributions and decay asymmetries are given. (auth)
Experimental study on self-powered synchronized switch harvesting on inductor circuits for multiple piezoelectric plates in acoustic energy harvesting

Self-powering mechanisms for synchronized switch harvesting on inductor circuits have been experimentally investigated to harvest low-frequency acoustic energy (∼200 Hz) using multiple lead zircona...
EFFECT OF BOUNDARY TETHERING ON VIBRATIONAL MODES OF FRACTALS

We introduce a mapping between a tethered scalar elastic network and a diffusion problem with permanent traps. Various vibrational properties of progressively tethered fractals are discussed using this analogy both in terms of scaling ansatz and numerically by approximately diagonalizing the corresponding large random matrices, with the critical percolation cluster as an example of a fractal.
Race Differences Among Noncustodial Fathers Noncompliant in Child Support: Involvement and Self-perceptions of Fathering

There are more than 21.2 million children who live with only one parent in the United States (US Census 2007). Of the 13.6 million noncustodial parents, the majority of whom are fathers, more than 2.6 million are low-income fathers who do not pay child support (Sorensen, 2002). This is a diverse group, yet little research has focused on racial differences among low income noncustodial fathers who do not pay child support. Understanding who these fathers are, and how they are involved in their children's lives is important for social policy and for parenting programs that seek to involve fathers beyond financial child support. This paper provides a description of race differences among low-income, noncustodial fathers convicted of the non-payment of child support. Comparisons between White and African American/Black fathers are made for the amount of fathering involvement, the type of fathering involvement, and self-perceptions of fathering. Findings reveal no significant differences between African American/Black and White fathers' type of involvement and perceptions of fathering, although there is a trend for African American/Black fathers to have more contact with their children compared with White fathers. Findings demonstrate that low-income, noncustodial fathers face multiple barriers to staying involved with their children, and practitioners should recognize the context of background factors that might influence father involvement.
Expanding the metabolic engineering toolbox with directed evolution

Cellular systems can be engineered into factories that produce high-value chemicals from renewable feedstock. Such an approach requires an expanded toolbox for metabolic engineering. Recently, protein engineering and directed evolution strategies have started to play a growing and critical role within metabolic engineering. This review focuses on the various ways in which directed evolution can be applied in conjunction with metabolic engineering to improve product yields. Specifically, we discuss the application of directed evolution on both catalytic and non-catalytic traits of enzymes, on regulatory elements, and on whole genomes in a metabolic engineering context. We demonstrate how the goals of metabolic pathway engineering can be achieved in part through evolving cellular parts as opposed to traditional approaches that rely on gene overexpression and deletion. Finally, we discuss the current limitations in screening technology that hinder the full implementation of a metabolic pathway-directed evolution approach.
Livestock production, animal source food intake, and young child growth: The role of gender for ensuring nutrition impacts

Animal source foods (ASF) provide critical micronutrients in highly bioavailable forms, with the potential to efficiently address undernutrition among young children living in developing countries. There is limited evidence for how livestock ownership might increase ASF intake in poor households either through own-consumption or income generation. Along with lack of nutrition knowledge, gender di- mensions may affect the pathways leading from livestock ownership to child ASF intake and ultimately to young child growth. Using data from a large-scale impact evaluation conducted in Kenya, this study tested the hypothesis that co-owned/female-owned livestock would be associated with improved child growth, mediated by increases in ASF consumption. Data were collected from September 2010 to January 2011 from households in six provinces in Kenya on a broad range of agricultural, economic, social, health and nutrition factors. Children ages 6e60 months were included in this analysis (n ¼ 183). In this sample, co-owned/female-owned livestock was valued at 18,861 Kenyan shillings in contrast with male-owned livestock valued at 66,343 Kenyan shillings. Multivariate linear regression models showed a positive association between co-owned/female-owned livestock with child weight-for-age z score (WAZ) after adjusting for caregiver education level, income, child age, and child sex. A mediating effect by child ASF intake was evident, explaining 25% of the relationship of livestock ownership with child WAZ, by Sobel eGoodman test (p < .05). A trend towards significance was demonstrated for co-owned/female-owned livestock and height-for-age z score (HAZ), and no effect was apparent for weight-for-height z score (WHZ). The partial mediating effect may be indicative of other factors inherent in co-owned/female- owned livestock such as higher status of females in these households with greater influence over other child care practices promoting growth. Nonetheless, our study suggests targeting females in livestock production programming may better ensure improvements in child nutrition.
Ionic Polymer-metal Composites for Underwater Operation

The ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) for flexible hydrodynamic propulsor blades can provide many new opportunities in navy platforms, especially in unmanned, robotic vehicles used in surveillan...
THERAPY WITH STUTTERING CHILDREN AND THEIR MOTHERS

In an earlier study significant aspects of the feelings of stuttering children toward their mothers were investigated. Therapeutic principles were developed and were then implemented in a one-year pilot study. Twenty children, aged 2 years 6 months to 15 years 6 months, were treated with different treatment patterns. All children were helped in verbalizing their feelings of anger and anxiety. Mothers received guidance in understanding their child's feelings, managing his behavior and helping him cope with his communication disorder.
Role of Rac1 in Thyroxin-Induced Cardiovascular Abnormalities

Development of cardiac hypertrophy (CH) after thyroxin (T4) treatment is well established. Many signaling pathways have been implicated in this phenomenon such as PI3K, PKB/Akt, or the rennin-angiotensin system. Recently, we observed that T4-induced CH is associated with increased cardiac Rac1 expression and activity. Whether these increases have a role in inducing this cardiac outcome still unknown. Here, we showed that T4 treatment (500 μg/kg/day) for two weeks resulted in CH and hypertension in mice. Left ventricular systolic function is also decreased in these mice compared to WT. Under near physiological conditions, right ventricular papillary muscles of T4-treated mice maintained their peak isometric active developed tension, but exhibited significant decreases in their corresponding time to peak, 50% relaxation, and 90% relaxation times. Positive inotropic responses to increasing heart rate (frequency) and β-adrenergic stimulation were markedly depressed in these muscles compared to WT. Rac1 inhibitor, pravastatin (10 mg/kg/day) significantly decreased the T4-induced hypertension but not the CH or any of the T4-induced contractile changes in cardiac muscles. In conclusion, T4 induces different signaling pathways with different cardiac outcomes. Rac1 seems to play a role in T4-induced hypertension with a minor involvement in T4-induced CH. Contractile abnormalities of cardiac muscles after T4 treatment are apparently dependent on CH but not hemodynamic changes (elevated blood pressure). Early treatment of T4-induced CH could represent a valuable therapeutic strategy to prevent progression to heart failure in hyperthyroid patients.
Context codes and the effect of noisy learning on a simplified hippocampal CA3 model

This paper investigates how noise affects a minimal computational model of the hippocampus and, in particular, region CA3. The architecture and physiology employed are consistent with the known anatomy and physiology of this region. Here, we use computer simulations to demonstrate and quantify the ability of this model to create context codes in sequential learning problems. These context codes are mediated by local context neurons which are analogous to hippocampal place-coding cells. These local context neurons endow the network with many of its problem-solving abilities. Our results show that the network encodes context on its own and then uses context to solve sequence prediction under ambiguous conditions. Noise during learning affects performance, and it also affects the development of context codes. The relationship between noise and performance in a sequence prediction is simple and corresponds to a disruption of local context neuron firing. As noise exceeds the signal, sequence completion and local context neuron firing are both lost. For the parameters investigated, extra learning trials and slower learning rates do not overcome either of the effects of noise. The results are consistent with the important role played, in this hippocampal model, by local context neurons in sequence prediction and for disambiguation across time.