cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE CHOLERA/COLI FAMILY OF ENTEROTOXINS

Numerous studies have reported immunological, structural, and functional similarities between the heat-labile enterotoxin(s) (LTs) of Escherichia coli and the enterotoxin (choleragen) of Vibrio cholerae (1–6) These enterotoxins activate adenylate cyclase, leading to an increase in intracellular levels of cyclic 3’,5’- adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)(7,8), and they each are believed to bind, through their B-regions, with host cell membrane receptors containing ganglioside GM1 (9,10). There are, however, structural and immunological differences among choleragen (CT), LT produced by a human strain of enterotoxigenic E. coli (H-LT), and LT produced by porcine strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli (P-LT)(11,12).
Neonatal androgen effects on sexual and non-sexual behavior of adult rats tested under various hormone regimes

Neonatally castrated male rats showed feminine behavior in- creases (compared with littermates castrated as adults) during testosterone-progesterone and estrogen treatments as well as during estrogen-
Two types of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive amacrine cell in the rhesus monkey retina.

Two types of amacrine cell immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme in the catecholamine (CA)-synthetic pathway, are described in the rhesus monkey retina with the indirect-immunofluorescent method. These 2 types of neuron differ in soma size, plane of arborization in the inner plexiform layer, levels of the enzyme TH as quantified by microspectrofluorometry, and population density. Type 1 CA cells have comparatively large cell bodies almost exclusively in the innermost row of the inner nuclear layer; their processes arborize in the outermost stratum of the inner plexiform layer; they give rise to fine predominantly radially oriented fibers in the inner nuclear layer; and there are about 26 type 1 CA cells/mm2. Type 2 CA amacrine cells have relatively small cell bodies located in the inner nuclear layer (44.4%), the inner plexiform layer (35.6%) and the ganglion cell layer (20 %), and their processes arborize in the center of the inner plexiform layer. Although type 2 CA amacrine cells are more numerous (35 cells/mm2) than type 1 CA cells, type 1 CA amacrine cells are 3.5 X brighter than type 2 CA cells and therefore likely to contain 3.5 X more TH. Thus the primate retina contains 2 distinct catecholaminergic neuronal pathways that could have different functional roles in vision.
Effects of tunicamycin on the physical properties and antiviral activities of murine L cell interferon

Abstract In the present study, we have examined the physicochemical, antigenic, and biological properties of murine L cell interferons produced in the presence of the glycosylation inhibitor, tunicamycin. Interferon produced by L cells treated with tunicamycin exhibited fourfold less antiviral activity on murine cells, but similar heterologous activity on human cultures when compared to interferon synthesized in the absence of the antibiotic. The antiviral activities of the interferons produced in the presence of tunicamycin were neutralized by specific anti-interferon sera to the same degree as control L cell interferon. A 17,000 molecular weight interferon was synthesized in the presence of tunicamycin, whereas two larger (43,000 and 26,000) interferon species were synthesized by untreated cultures. Isoelectric focusing of a control L cell interferon revealed considerable molecular microheterogeneity, whereas L cell interferon produced in the presence of tunicamycin focused as two discrete peaks (designated 1 and 2); only peak 2 was neutralized by antisera raised against human leukocyte interferon serum. These results suggest that two 17,000 molecular weight nonglycosylated interferon species were produced by murine L cells treated with tunicamycin, one of which possesses a common antigenic determinant(s) with interferon produced by human leukocytes.
Long-term asthma outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery in aspirin triad patients.

Background: Aspirin triad disease (ATD) is a well-known clinical entity characterized by asthma, polyposis, and aspirin intolerance. Using subjective and objective clinical data, this study examines the short- and long-term outcomes of asthma after sinus surgery in patients with ATD. Methods: A retrospective review and standardized survey in the setting of an academic tertiary rhinology program. Eighty-five patients with ATD who had endoscopic sinus surgery between 1986 and 1998 were identified from an internal database. Standardized surveys were sent to each patient to assess both objective and subjective improvement of their asthma. Results: The address and location of 20 of 85 patients could not be ascertained. Thirty-four of the remaining 65 patients (52.3%) with ATD who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery responded to the survey. Respondents had a mean follow-up of 10 years. Overall, 29 (94%) of 31 patients who reported asthma symptoms preoperatively noted long-term postoperative improvement. Furthermore, 21 of these 31 patients (68%) reported further improvement of their asthma beyond the first postoperative year. Emergency department visits for asthma exacerbations decreased in 17 (94%) of 18. Inpatient hospitalizations for asthma exacerbations also decreased in the first postoperative year in 10 (91%) of 11 patients. Asthma attacks declined in 12 (41%) of 27 patients the first year, whereas 24 (88.9%) of 27 patients had fewer asthma attacks in the last 12 months of follow-up. Peak flow rates improved from an average of 60% of the predicted value preoperatively to 86% at the time of follow-up. Conclusions: The asthma component of ATD continues to improve with time after endoscopic sinus surgery. Although the most dramatic decrease occurs in the first year after sinus surgery, the majority of patients noted further improvement in subsequent years.
Optical-pumping effects on Raman-heterodyne-detected multipulse rf nuclear-spin-echo decay

Raman-heterodyne-detected multipulse rf nuclear-spin-echo decay of ${\mathrm{Pr}}^{3+}$ in ${\mathrm{YAlO}}_{3}$ is measured with continuous-detection light throughout the spin-locking pulse train and with the light on during a short period centered at the echo time only for every sixth echo. The echo decay shows three components: an initial fast decay (\ensuremath{\simeq}400 \ensuremath{\mu}s), an intermediate decay (5.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.6 ms), and a slower decay of 22.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.7 ms for gated echoes. For cw light, the decay is described by the same initial fast decay, but a single decay at 7.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.6 ms is observed at longer times. The difference in the observed echo decay is attributed to optical pumping effects. A rate-equation model is constructed, consisting of three ground-state levels and three excited-state levels. It includes radiative decay, spin-lattice relaxation, the optical pumping and rf pulses, and rf coherence loss due to excited-state occupancy. The model shows three decay times, fast (\ensuremath{\simeq}400 \ensuremath{\mu}s), intermediate (6.08\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07 ms), and slow (21.0\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1 ms) decay for gated echoes. The last two rates are affected by the strength and duration of the optical field. For continuous light, the calculated echo is seen to decay at \ensuremath{\simeq}400 \ensuremath{\mu}s, 2.04\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07 ms, and 3.43\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02 ms and then increases at a much slower rate (100 ms). This is only an apparent increase, because significant signal cancellation occurs in the sum of the six ion groups contributing to the signal. If a reduced light level and faster spin-lattice relaxation rates are assumed, the calculated echo-decay times for cw light are 2.44\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03 and 7.37\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04 ms. This corresponds to a homogeneous linewidth increase of 2.5 times and a spin-lattice relaxation rate increase of 2.5 times equivalent to crystal heating by the cw detecting light of 0.35 K over that of the gated light.
Prolactin gene expression in human ovarian follicular cells.

Abstract Objective To investigate prolactin gene expression in human ovarian follicular cells. Design RNA was isolated from follicular cells obtained at the time of transvaginal oocyte retrieval from patients after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. The RNA was subjected to reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using prolactin-specific primers. The RT-PCR products were analyzed by gel electrophoresis, followed by Southern blot analysis using prolactin-specific probes. Setting Department of gynecology and obstetrics research laboratory. Patient(s) Women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation followed by transvaginal oocyte retrieval. Intervention(s) Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation followed by transvaginal oocyte retrieval. Main outcome measure(s) Expression of prolactin mRNA by follicular cells. Result(s) The presence of prolactin-specific cDNA amplified by RT-PCR from RNA isolated from human follicular cells was confirmed by Southern blot analysis. Conclusion(s) Human ovarian follicular cells are an extrapituitary site of prolactin gene expression.
A new method for evaluating the describing function of hysteresis-type nonlinearities

Abstract A new method is given for evaluating the describing function of hysteresis-type nonlinearities. A circle of radius A is constructed to represent a sinusoidal input A sin θ, where θ = ωτ.In the case of a single-valued nonlinearity, an output contour C with area A 1 is sufficient to represent the output wave-shape. In the general case of double-valued nonlinearities, another output contour C ′ with area B 1 is required to determine the general describing function. The ratio of the second area B 1 to the first area A 1 determines the phase shift. It is to be noted that the second area B 1 is directly related to the area of the hysteresis loop or the backlash.
Feasibility of providing personalized health information to older adults and their caregivers

Studies showed that obtaining personalized health information facilitates patient education and compliance. Older adults with various comorbidities and their caregivers could potentially benefit from obtaining personalized health information via a web-based patient portal. However, it is not clear whether this population, that could potentially most benefit from a patient portal, is likely to make use of this technology. The goal of this project was to assess feasibility of patient portal in older patients and their caregivers. Older adults with congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their caregivers were introduced to a patient portal, given timed tasks to accomplish using the portal and then interviewed about the experience. The older patients appeared to require significantly more time on most tasks than caregivers and were more likely to need assistance. The content of the portal did not match health literacy level of this population and navigation of the portal appeared to be cumbersome for the most of the older patients. Despite multiple deficiencies in user experience, both older patients and caregivers believed that using such a system is important and may improve their self-care. Adequate training and support is required for older adults and their families who will use a patient portal. The usability and appropriate content presentation issues have to be addressed for successful use of patient portals by older adults and their caregivers.
Relation between the site of origin of ventricular premature complexes and the presence and severity of coronary artery disease

Abstract The clinical implications of ventricular premature complexes in patients with coronary heart disease have received increasing interest. It has been suggested that ventricular premature complexes of right ventricular origin have more benign implications than those that originate from the left ventricle. To define more precisely the relation between the site of origin of ventricular premature complexes and the presence and severity of coronary heart disease in patients with a chest pain syndrome, 39 patients with ventricular premature complexes of right or left ventricular contour who were undergoing cardiac catheterization and coronary arteriography for evaluation of chest discomfort were studied. Ninteen patients had left and 17 had right ventricular premature complexes and 3 had both. Of the 19 with left ventricular premature complexes, 15 had coronary artery disease (12 with two or three vessel obstruction and 3 with single vessel obstruction). Four had normal cardiac catheterization studies. Twelve patients had asynergy on ventriculography. The 17 patients with right ventricular premature complexes had similar angiographic findings. Eleven of the 17 had coronary artery disease (8 with triple vessel disease and 3 with isolated obstruction of the left anterior descending coronary artery). Six had normal arteries. Eight of the 11 with coronary artery disease and right ventricular premature complexes also had asynergy. All three patients with both left and right ventricular premature complexes had coronary obstructive disease. These findings indicate that in patients with a chest pain syndrome there is no relation between the site of origin of ventricular premature complexes and either the prevalence or severity of coronary artery disease.
The influence of solvent of crystallization upon the solid-state conformation of calix[6]arenes'

Abstract The X-ray structures of complexes between p-t-butylcalix[6]arene and DMSO (3) and calix[6]arene and benzene (2), acetone (4), and dioxane/water (5) are presented and compared to similar studies. The solid state conformation appears to be very dependent upon the crystallization solvent. Those solvents that cannot participate in hydrogen bonding with the calixarene co-crystallize with the calixarene in a pinched cone conformation in which all calixarene -OH groups hydrogen bond with each other in a cyclic array. When the solvent can disrupt the intra-calixarene hydrogen bonding, however, the macrocycle adopts some form of the 1,2,3-alternate conformation. The finer features of this conformation depend upon both the extent of the calixarene-solvent hydrogen bonding, as well as other interactions.
Microscopic Modeling of the Dynamics of Frictional Adhesion in the Gecko Attachment System

We present a simple microscopic model describing the unique friction behavior of gecko setal arrays as they are dragged on smooth surfaces. Unlike other solids of high elastic modulus that do not stick under van der Waals forces alone, the gecko setal arrays do not require a compressive force to display a drag resistance but rather develop a tensile normal force when they are dragged (J. Experim. Biol. 2006, 209, 3569). We describe this unique behavior with a microscopic model involving curved beam structures at two length scales: at the spatula level, thousands of independent curved beams repeat detachment and reattachment, whereas at the seta level, the curved beam geometry of the seta induces a coupling between the frictional force and the adhesive force that depends on the angle of contact, therefore allowing easy release when the animal needs it. Our model accounts well for the dependence of the drag and adhesion forces on the drag velocity and can also explain macroscopic attachment/ detachment cycles of the setal array.
New fluoronitride glasses in zirconium-metal-F-N systems

Etude de la vitrification, stabilite thermique et microdurete de verres de fluoronitrure prepares a partir de fluorures de zirconium, baryum, yttrium et aluminium et d'AlN ou ZrN. Comparaison avec les verres d'oxynitrure
Developing Voices: Transformative Education in a First- Grade Two-way Spanish Immersion Classroom, A Participatory Study

Abstract This study drew a portrait of an actual classroom striving to initiate a transformative educational experience in an urban elementary school among students of different socioeconomic status, cultures, and languages. This participatory research design (Ada, Beutel, & Gottesman, 1991; Kieffer, 1981; Park, 1989) described the transformative process that a first-grade two-way Spanish immersion classroom underwent to build a community of learners. The researcher analyzed how, within the process of a transformative classroom, the teacher provided daily opportunities to engage young students in dialogue to develop their voices, created a literacy rich environment that serves multiple purposes including becoming literate, and fostered a strong sense of community. The following research questions were posed: How is critical pedagogy applied to a lower primary-grade classroom? Through the teacher's own reconceptualization of voice, how can opportunities be provided for young children to develop voice? How ...
Thermionic Emission from Fullerenes

We investigate the time dependence of carbon cluster ions, formed via thermionic emission from photoexcited fullerenes (C60 and C70). By pulsing the extraction field, we are able to observe delayed ions formed as late as 100 µs after excitation at 532 nm, 355 nm, or 266 nm. All even-sized clusters in the range 36 ≤ n ≤ 70 undergo thermionic emission.
Specific immune tolerance to anaphylactic sensitization (egg albumin) induced in the guinea pig by cyclophosphoramide (Cytoxan).

Abstract An intraperitoneal injection of egg albumin along with the single course of a nitrogen mustard (cyclophosphoramide) was given to guinea pigs. Following a rest period of 3 months, a routine anaphylactic sensitization and challenge program resulted in 73 per cent survival in the experimental (pretreated) group and 9 per cent survival in the control group.
Bayesian Network Structure Learning and Inference Methods for Handwriting

Probabilistic models of characteristics of handwritten words are useful in forensic document examination since they can be used to answer queries such as: determine the rarity of a given style of writing of the word, find the probability of observing those characteristics in a representative database of given size, etc. The task considered here is to use a training set of samples of a word written by a representative population of individuals (with each individual's writing of the word being described by a fixed set of discrete categorical variables), to construct directed probabilistic graphical models (Bayesian networks or BNs) and then use such models to answer probabilistic queries. However, since the BN structure learning problem is NP-hard, we propose an approximate method and analyze its performance and complexity. The proposed algorithm uses a local measure of deviance from independence (chi-squared tests between pairs of variables) and a global score (log-loss). The method builds the BN structure incrementally, by adding directed edges with high deviance and choosing the edge direction to minimize log-loss. The method is evaluated with samples of the word and obtained from a representative population of the United States with descriptive characteristic sets that are different for cursive writing and for hand-printing. For several samples obtained from the BN, the probability of random correspondence (PRC) is inferred. A measure of the discriminatory power of the characteristic set (conditional PRC) is also determined. The computational complexity of determining the probability of finding a similar one to a given sample, within a tolerance, in a database of given size, is discussed.
Extinction of Superdiffusions and Semilinear Partial Differential Equations

Abstract A superdiffusion is a measure-valued branching process associated with a nonlinear operator Lu − ψ ( u ) where L is a second order elliptic differential operator and ψ is a function from R d × R + to R + . In the case L 1⩽0 (the so-called subcritical case), the expectation of the total mass does not increase and the mass vanishes at a finite time with probability 1. Most results on connections between the superdiffusion and differential equations involving Lu − ψ ( u ) were obtained for the subcritical case. In the present paper, we assume only that L 1 is a bounded function. In this more general setting, the probability of extinction can be smaller than 1, and we show that his happens if and only if there exists a strictly positive solution of the equation Lu − ψ ( u )=0 in R d . We also establish a relation between the probability of extinction in a domain D and strictly positive solutions of equation Lu − ψ ( u )=0 in D that are equal to 0 on the boundary of D . We call such solutions special. For the equation ( Δ + c ) u = u α , where Δ is the Beltrami–Laplace operator on a complete Riemannian manifold E , strictly positive solutions in E were studied in connection with a geometrical problem: Which two functions represent scalar curvatures of two Riemannian metrics related by a conformal mapping (see [1] and references there)?
Identification of critical positive charges in XIP, the Na/Ca exchange inhibitory peptide.

Abstract The peptides XIP (RRLLFYKYVYKRYRAGKQRG) and C28R2 (LRRGQILWFRGLNRIQTQIRVVKAFRSS) correspond to the autoinhibitory domains of the Na–Ca exchanger and the plasma membrane Ca pump, respectively. An increase of ionic strength reduced the inhibition of exchange activity by XIP and C28R2, consistent with an important role for electrostatic interactions. Sulfosuccunimidyl acetate (SNA)-modified XIP did not inhibit Na–Ca exchange. Because SNA modifies lysines, we conclude that at least one of the positive charges at the XIP lysine positions (7, 11, or 17) is important for inhibition. 2CK-XIP (RRLLFYRYVYRCYCAGRQKG) has cysteines at 12 and 14 and only one lysine (at 19). 2CK-XIP inhibited Na–Ca exchange; thus positive charges at 12 and 14 are not essential. SNA-modified 2CK-XIP did not inhibit; thus a positive charge at 19 is important. Iodoacetic acid-modified 2CK-XIP inhibits the Na–Ca exchanger but not the PM Ca pump. These results show that the structural determinants for inhibition of the Na–Ca exchanger and the PM Ca pump are different, that positive charges at 7, 11, or 17 (or some combination) are more important than positive charges at 12 and 14 for inhibition by XIP of the Na–Ca exchanger.
The Procession that Travels Inside: Yuyachkani's "Santiago"

In collaborative theater projects like Yuyachkani, it is hard to define the exact moment when a new project begins. Generally we have a very imprecise idea as our initial point of departure and we explore it more fully in the day-to-day work, where it changes a great deal. Santiago is a project that began as a processional performance piece in the public plazas before premiering as a theatrical work in its current form, as a largely Quechua-language play focusing on permutations of faith in an almost uninhabited Andean village. The final project arrived as a result of this complex process of research and exploration. Santiago has a very long road to its current form, always with the indispensable accompaniment of the writer Peter Elmore, the co-author of the play. This article is available in Studies in 20th & 21st Century Literature: http://newprairiepress.org/sttcl/vol32/iss2/5 The Procession That Travels Inside: Yuyachkani’s “Santiago” Miguel Rubio Zapata Grupo Cultural Yuyachkani “the war is over, but when will peace arrive?”1 The last three inhabitants of an almost empty town one night are locked into a church where Santiago, the town’s patron saint, is venerated. Political violence and illness explain the recent abandonment of the town and the church, located somewhere in the Andes mountains. There are three characters inside the church: Bernardina has lost her twin sons during the time of violence and has promised to take the saint out in procession. She looks for retribution, by way of a miracle from Apostle Santiago, that will make her children reappear. Armando, a businessman and self-proclaimed MC of the festival, wants the saint to process so that life might return to town, and he can continue with his business. Rufino, the church custodian, who inherited the job from his father, does not really care if the procession takes place or not, a reason that the others are suspicious of him. Bernardina thinks that the church is closed because it was hit by lightning; for that reason she feels that everything there remains as if carved in stone. An ancient belief names children born during storms as “Children of Lighting.” Thus, they are destined to become priests in the Andean tradition, and when they are born twins, one of them is dedicated to the service of the God of thunder and storm. She observes the custodian distrustfully and is almost certain that 1 Zapata: The Procession that Travels Inside: Yuyachkani's "Santiago" Published by New Prairie Press 308 STT that statue has mysteriously and permanently disappeared.
Application of least squares to the exact analysis of ABC-type NMR spectra

Abstract A weighted least squares method is developed to adjust ABC spectral line position data which contain experimental uncertainties. The adjustments are made so that the resulting line positions conform exactly to a set of known spectral sum and difference rules. Energies needed in the ABC exact solution formalism are obtained in terms of the six least squares parameters. An application to the analysis of the cyclopropane ring proton spectrum of (2,2 diphenyl-cyclopropane)-phenyl-sulfone is cited to illustrate the method.
A Quantitative Photochemical-Fluorimetric Method for Measurement of Nonfluorescent Vitamin K1

Vitamin K1 (2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthoquinone) is not naturally fluorescent, but yields a fluorescent photochemical product upon ultraviolet irradiation. Among several solvents, dioxane was found to be the most suitable for the determination of vitamin K1. A photochemical-fluorimetric method is proposed for measurement of original vitamin K1 concentration using two different readout methods: (1) digital integration of the fluorescence increase due to the photoproduct at 431 nm; and (2) analog recording of photoproduct fluorescence as a function of irradiation time. The two methods gave limits of detection of 5 ppb, with a better precision for the digital procedure. Limits of detection and speed of analysis are shown to be more satisfactory for the determination of vitamin K1 than in previously reported analytical methods. The specific data obtained depends greatly on the quality of the solvent and excitation-photolysis source used.
An existence theorem for a non-regular variational problem

A “Hodge” theorem is proved for a non-linear system of equations which are not uniformly elliptic. The solutions are p-forms which minimize a non-regular energy functional over cohomology classes. The theorem is proved by regularizing the functional and proving weak L2 existence. To obtain regularity, we first show that a scalar function of the solution is a subsolution of an elliptic equation from which it follows that the solution is bounded. Holder continuity is then proved by comparison with a solution of a simpler system known to be Holder continuous. The solution of the non-regular problem is then obtained from the Shiffman regularization.
Free‐air CO2 enrichment and soil nitrogen effects on energy balance and evapotranspiration of wheat

In order to determine the likely effects of the increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration on future evapotranspiration, ET, plots of field-grown wheat were exposed to concentrations of 550 µmol/mol CO2 (or 200 µmol/mol above current ambient levels of about 360 µmol/mol) using a free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE) facility. Data were collected for four growing seasons at ample water and fertilizer (high N) and for two seasons when soil nitrogen was limited (low N). Measurements were made of net radiation, Rn; soil heat flux; air and soil temperatures; canopy temperature, Ts; and wind speed. Sensible heat flux was calculated from the wind and temperature measurements. ET, that is, latent heat flux, was determined as a residual in the energy balance. The FACE treatment increased daytime Ts about 0.6° and 1.1°C at high and low N, respectively. Daily total Rn was reduced by 1.3% at both levels of N. Daily ET was consistently lower in the FACE plots, by about 6.7% and 19.5% for high and low N, respectively.
Channel Model and Performance Analysis of QAM Multiple Antenna Systems at 60-GHz in the Presence of Human Activity

In this paper, a 60-GHz channel model that incorporates the presence of human activity, and which is an extension of the standard channel model proposed by the IEEE 802.15.3c group, is presented. In the presence of human activity, various measurement results show that the attenuation due to human blockage can be 20 dB or more, and thus is non-negligible. Various measurement results in the literature are used to determine the distribution of the shadowing attenuation caused by human blockage. A multiuser single-carrier system with a single receiver is considered, and system performance in the presence of blockage because of human activity is evaluated. Numerical results show that the 60-GHz system can incur a large degradation in bit error rate due to human blockage.
Geographically masking health data to preserve confidentiality

The conventional approach to preserving the confidentiality of health records aggregates all records within a geographical area that has a population large enough to ensure prevention of disclosure. Though this approach normally protects the privacy of individuals, the use of such aggregated data limits the types of research one can conduct and makes it impossible to address many important health problems. In this paper we discuss the design and implementation of geographical masks that not only preserve the security of individual health records, but also support the investigation of questions that can be answered only with some knowledge about the location of health events. We describe several alternative methods of masking individual-level data, evaluate their performance, and discuss both the degree to which we can analyse masked data validly as well as the relative security of each approach, should anyone attempt to recover the identity of an individual from the masked data. We conclude that the geographical masks we describe, when appropriately used, protect the confidentiality of health records while permitting many important geographically-based analyses, but that further research is needed to determine how the power of tests for clustering or the strength of other associative relationships are adversely affected by the characteristics of different masks.
Consumption of 2 and 4 egg yolks/d for 5 wk increases macular pigment concentrations in older adults with low macular pigment taking cholesterol-lowering statins

BACKGROUND Lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of dry, age-related macular degeneration because of their photo-oxidative role as macular pigment. OBJECTIVE The present study evaluated serum lutein, zeaxanthin, and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) responses at 0.25 degrees , 0.5 degrees , and 1 degree retinal eccentricities to the consumption of 2 and 4 egg yolks/d by older adults taking cholesterol-lowering medications. DESIGN Subjects consumed foods containing 2 followed by 4 egg yolks/d for 5 wk each with a 4-wk egg-free period at baseline and between the 2 interventions. RESULTS Changes in MPOD (n = 37) with egg yolk consumption were inversely associated (P < 0.05) with baseline MPOD. Subjects with low-baseline MPOD (defined as MPOD < or =0.5 at 0.25 degrees , < or =0.4 at 0.5 degrees , and < or =0.35 at 1 degrees ) showed increases of < or =50% (P < 0.05) with 4 egg yolks at the 3 retinal eccentricities. MPOD increased by 31% (P = 0.059) at 0.5 degrees with 2 egg yolks. Serum lutein increased by only 16% and 24% (P < 0.05) compared with increases of 36% and 82% (P < 0.001) in serum zeaxanthin (n = 52) after consumption of 2 and 4 egg yolks, respectively. Serum HDL cholesterol increased by 5% (P < 0.05) after consumption of 2 and 4 egg yolks. Serum LDL cholesterol did not change with either egg yolk treatment. CONCLUSIONS Consumption of 4 egg yolks/d, and possibly of 2 egg yolks/d, for 5 wk benefited macular health in older adults with low MPOD. Serum HDL cholesterol increased without an increase in LDL cholesterol in this study population, most of whom were taking cholesterol-lowering statins.
Lanthanide ions as fluorescent probes for the nucleotides

Abstract The lanthanide ions reacted with the nucleotides to form a complex in which the lanthanides served as sensitive fluorescent probes. By selectively exciting the nucleotide, the quantum efficiency of narrow-line lanthanide ion fluorescence can be calculated. Quantum efficiency values of 0.19 to 0.01 and 0.14 to 0.01 were obtained for Tb+3 and Eu+3 respectively. For Dy+3 and Sm+3 the values were too low to measure accurately for most nucleotides. The binding of the lanthanides to the nucleotides can be reversed by prolonged dialysis against chelating agents. Between pH 3 and pH 7 the complex precipitates and approaches a maximum of lanthanide ion fluorescence at pH 5.5.
Detection of a lactogenic antigen in serum by antibodies to chemically modified human chorionic somatomammotropin.

ABSTRACT Human chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS), which was reduced and alkylated to form carbamidomethyl-HCS (CAM-HCS), elicited rabbit antiserum (AS/CAM-HCS) which bound an antigen in the sera of post-partum women and neutralized the lactogenic activity of plasma from post-partum women. Radioimmunoassays with 131I-HCS, AS/CAM-HCS and CAM-HCS standard were used to measure the post-partum prolactin, while HCS was measured with 131I-HCS, HCS standard and its rabbit antiserum (AS/HCS). The post-partum prolactin was detectable in serum as early as 8 hr after delivery, by which time HCS had usually declined to undetectable levels. The antigen concentrations tended to decrease with time thereafter, but were still measurable in the last sample of blood obtained 6 months after delivery. There were no significant differences during the first 4 days after delivery in the amounts of antigen detected in sera of nursing mothers compared to sera of women who received steroid medication to prevent lactation. The prolac...
Postdeployment Hospitalizations Among Service Members Deployed in Support of the Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan

Purpose There is significant public and veteran concerns over the impact of military deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan on veterans' health. This study investigates morbidity among deployers by uniquely comparing after-deployment hospitalizations to before-deployment hospitalizations and hospitalizations among nondeployers. Methods To compare after-deployment with before-deployment rates of morbidity, we examined active-duty military personnel who deployed for the first time in support of the current conflicts in 2003 or 2004 and had at least 12 months of service before deployment. We also compared the after-deployment hospitalizations to hospitalizations of personnel serving on active duty from May 2002 through May 2004 without a deployment from September 2001 through August 2006. This historical prospective investigation utilized Cox's proportional hazards time-to-event modeling. Hospitalizations for any cause and hospitalizations based on 14 broad diagnostic categories were examined. Results After adjusting for demographic and occupational variables, the after-deployment risk for any-cause hospitalization was greater in comparison with before-deployment (hazard ratio, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.48–1.66) but lower in comparison with nondeployers (HR, 0.95, 95% CI, 0.92–0.98). Conclusions Active-duty service members have an increased risk of hospitalization after deployment compared with before deployment but a lower risk when compared with nondeployers.
Reactivity of Osmium(VI) Nitrides with the Azide Ion

A variety of reactions occur between trans-[OsVI(tpy)(Cl)2(N)]+ (1) (tpy = 2,2‘:6‘,2‘‘-terpyridine) or [OsVI(tpm)(Cl)2(N)]+ (2) (tpm = tris(1-pyrazolyl)methane) and N3-. The reaction between 2 and ...
Exploring schema repositories with schemr

Schemr is a schema search engine, and provides users the ability to search for and visualize schemas stored in a metadata repository. Users may search by keywords and by example -- using schema fragments as query terms. Schemr uses a novel search algorithm, based on a combination of text search and schema matching techniques, as well as a structurally-aware scoring metric. Schemr presents search results in a GUI that allows users to explore which elements match and how well they do. The GUI supports interactions, including panning, zooming, layout and drilling-in. We demonstrate schema search and visualization, introduce Schemr as a new component of the information integration toolbox, and discuss its benefits in several applications.
Separation of co-channel FM/PM signals using the discrete polynomial-phase transform

We consider the problem of separating two constant-amplitude continuous-phase signal components overlapping in time and frequency band. The discrete polynomial-phase transform (DPT) is used to estimate the parameters of the phase function of each component. Simulations are used to evaluate the performance of the algorithm. >
Heavy $Z$ Boson Decays to Two Bosons in $E(6)$ Superstring Models

We evaluate the decays of a heavy neutral gauge boson ${Z}_{2}$ into ${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$, the Z and a Higgs boson, or two Higgs bosons in superstring-inspired electroweak models with an extra U(1) gauge group, two Higgs doublets, and a Higgs singlet. The branching ratios for these processes are generally similar and two-boson decay modes of ${Z}_{2}$ must exist at the few-percent level if kinematically accessible, although the bosonic modes which dominate in any given scenario depend on the U(1) quantum numbers and mixing in the Higgs sector. Lower bounds on the ${Z}_{2}$ mass versus the Z,Z' mixing are discussed; for the no-scale must be above 550 GeV.
Role of Architecture on the Conformation, Rheology, and Orientation Behavior of Linear, Star, and Hyperbranched Polymer Melts. 2. Linear Viscoelasticity and Flow Birefringence

In the preceding publication, we showed that the hyperbranched polystyrenes (HBPS) synthesized as part of this study may be viewed as starlike molecules with a high branch density, which are either unentangled or weakly entangled. In this paper, the role of architecture, especially the branch density, on the rheological and orientation behavior is investigated using simultaneous, quantitative stress and flow birefringence measurements in the melt state. Linear PS and eight-arm symmetric PS stars follow the stress−optical rule (SOR) over a wide dynamic range, with the stress−optical coefficient (C) governed by the arm molecular weight. When the branch density is “moderate” (greater than ∼20 arms), there is only a hint of nonterminal behavior in the viscoelastic moduli, while the C drops by 30% compared to a star with eight arms of comparable length. When the branch density is “high” (∼50 arms), and the arms are unentangled, the nonterminal behavior in G* is clearly apparent, and there is a dramatic breakdo...
Long-term results of surgical repair in patients with congenital subaortic stenosis

OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to analyze the long-term results of congenital subvalvar aortic stenosis (SAS) relief and the risk factors associated with recurrence and reoperations. METHODS Between January 1960 and March 2005, 190 patients underwent surgical correction for discrete (n=140) and tunnel (n=50) congenital subaortic stenosis. There were 115 male and 75 female patients ranging in age from 1 week to 36 years (mean age, 8.2+/-4.4 years). Preoperatively, 133 patients were in NYHA functional class I or II, 57 in class III or IV. There were several initial surgical procedures performed in patients with congenital subaortic stenosis: fibrous or fibromuscular subaortic resection, apical aortic conduit insertion, aortic valve replacement with mechanical valve, Ross and/or Konno procedure. RESULTS There were 7 early (4%) and 10 late (5%) deaths. Actuarial survival including operative mortality of patients with discrete and tunnel SAS was 94% and 84% at 40 years (P=0.14), respectively. Within 7.1+/-6.2 years a recurrent peak aortic gradient >50 mmHg and moderate to severe aortic insufficiency were found in 50 patients (28%), all of whom had 104 reoperations. At late follow-up, ranging from 6 months to 42 years (mean 9.6+/-7.5 years), the left ventricle-aorta gradient was higher in patients with tunnel versus discrete obstruction (28+/-11 mmHg vs. 13+/-9 mmHg; P=0.01) with a 40-year poor freedom from reoperation (14% vs. 89%; P<0.001). CONCLUSION Patients with tunnel SAS and complex multilevel left ventricular outflow tract obstruction required higher reoperation rates. Aortic valve replacement with pulmonary autograft (Ross procedure) performed at our institution resulted in low mortality and morbidity.
A specific RNA-protein interaction at yeast polyadenylation efficiency elements

The specific RNA-protein interactions responsible for the production of mature 3' ends of eukaryotic mRNAs are not well understood. Sequence elements at the 3' ends of yeast genes have been identified that specify the position of the poly(A) site and the efficiency of polyadenylation. To provide additional insights into the interaction between important sequences that direct 3'-end formation in vivo and nuclear proteins, we utilized gel mobility shift assays and UV-crosslinking studies. The data indicate that a protein, with an apparent molecular weight of 80 kDa, interacts specifically with pre-mRNA at the (UA)3efficiency element. Although the interaction is specific, it can be competed by RNA sequences that do not contain the same type of efficiency element; that is, a sequence lacking a (UA)3repeat. This result implies that the protein binding site is flexible. Using immunoprecipitation techniques, the protein has been identified as Hrp1, a heteronuclear RNA binding protein. The role of Hrp1p in 3'-end formation including RNA processing and transcription termination is addressed.
Reflexes from the Aortic Baroreceptor Fibers in the Cervical Vagus of the Cat and the Dog

The baroreceptor fibers which arise from the aortic arch course centrally within the vagus nerve in the dog, and they usually follow this path in the cat. Near the origin of the superior laryngeal nerve, a separate branch of the cervical vagus (the cervical aortic nerve) arises. Previously, it was thought that this nerve contained all the important baroreceptor afferents. Aortic baroreceptor fibers that are not within the cervical aortic nerve were studied in the anesthetized cat and dog after cervical aortic and carotid sinus nerves had been sectioned. Some experiments were acute, but most were conducted 13-60 days after nerve section (to allow transected nerves to degenerate). After degeneration, baroreceptor activity was found in the peripheral aortic nerves in most animals. The sensory terminals of the surviving baroreceptor fibers were on the aortic arch on the left side and at the root of the right subclavian artery on the right side. In one of four chronic cats, four of eight chronic dogs after degeneration, and one of three animals in acute experiments a depressor response (8-70 mm Hg in chronic and 10 mm Hg in acute experiments) followed stimulation of the peripheral aortic nerve. The surviving aortic baroreceptor fibers coursed centrally in the cervical vagus.
Structured illumination diffraction phase microscopy for broadband, subdiffraction resolution, quantitative phase imaging

Structured illumination microscopy (SIM) is an established technique that allows subdiffraction resolution imaging by heterodyning high sample frequencies into the system's passband via structured illumination. However, until now, SIM has been typically used to achieve subdiffraction resolution for intensity-based imaging. Here, we present a novel optical setup that uses structured illumination with a broadband light source to obtain noise-reduced, subdiffraction resolution, quantitative phase imaging (QPM) of cells. We compare this with a previous work for subdiffraction QPM imaging via SIM that used a laser source, and was thus still corrupted by coherent noise.
Spread of AMylostereum areolatum and A. chailletii decay in living stems of Picea abies.

Summary Fifteen injured Picea abies stems infected with Amylostereum areolatum and 14 stems with A. chailletii were cut and dissected. There were no significant differences between the spread of A. areolatum and that of A. chailletii within the stems. During the first 10 years after injury, average vertical spread for both species was 2.8 m, and spread over stem cross section constituted approximately 130‐160 cm2, thus affecting 30‐40 per cent of the total cross section area. Tunnels made by woodwasp larvae were encountered in every analysed stem, and in all cases they were situated within the columns of decayed wood. Correlation analyses showed positive relationships between wound size and length of decay, between tree diameter at breast height (d.b.h.) and spread of decay over stem cross section, between tree d.b.h. and length of decay, and between width of annual growth rings and decay cross section area.
Some Philosophical Implications of Dream Existence

Freud considered dreams to be compositions of past waking experiences but this theory is untenable: (1) the process of compositing disparate memories into the seamless dream life is miraculous, and (2) authentically novel dream worlds are experienced. Dennett makes dreams into purely cognitive affairs, a matter of scripts, denying their perceptual appearing. I suggest that dreams are de novo constructions of actual perceptual worlds, not put together from memory scraps. Implications for waking perception are considered.
Classical Derivation of the London Equations

The London equations, which were proposed as restrictions to conventional classical electromagnetism in order to explain the Meissner-Ochsenfeld effect in superconductors, are derived from familiar classical action integrals. The equations of motion, from which the London equations follow, should apply to some collisionless plasmas. Space and thermonuclear applications are timely and significant.
EMERGENT FLUCTUATIONS IN THE TRAJECTORIES OF AGENT COLLECTIVES

Characteristics of the collective behavior of groups have been studied in diverse disciplines; in this work, we present an approach grounded in robotics. We first specify a model for collective behavior based on a formulation of a multi-agent robotic system. In contrast to some models found in the literature, we do not use stochastic mechanisms to introduce fluctuations. Rather, we present a fully deterministic model where fluctuations emerge due to the complex dynamics of a high-dimensional coupling of dynamical systems. We investigate the emergence of fluctuations in the trajectories of individual agents about the group average trajectory, and present an illustration of the onset of these fluctuations as inter-agent coupling is increased. A selection of behavioral modes are also provided, illustrating the nature of these fluctuations.
Screening Method for Inhibitors Against Formosan Subterranean Termite β-Glucosidases In Vivo

Abstract Cellulose, a main structural constituent of plants, is the major nutritional component for wood-feeding termites. Enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose to glucose occurs by the action of cellulases, a mixture of the three major classes of enzymes including endo-1,4-β-glucanases, exo-1,4-β-glucanases, and β-glucosidase. Lower termites, such as the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, require cellulolytic protozoa to efficiently digest cellulose for survival. Inhibitors developed against any of these cellulase system enzymes would be a potential termite treatment avenue. Our effort was to develop a screening system to determine whether termites could be controlled by administration of cellulase system inhibitors. Some reported compounds such as gluconolactone, conduritol B epoxide, and 1-deoxynojirimycin are potential β-glucosidase inhibitors, but they have only been tested in vitro. We describe an in vivo method to test the inhibitory ability of the designated chemicals to ac...