cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extending Dynamical Systems Theory to Model Embodied Cognition

We define a mathematical formalism based on the concept of an ‘‘open dynamical system” and show how it can be used to model embodied cognition. This formalism extends classical dynamical systems theory by distinguishing a ‘‘total system’’ (which models an agent in an environment) and an ‘‘agent system’’ (which models an agent by itself), and it includes tools for analyzing the collections of overlapping paths that occur in an embedded agent's state space. To illustrate the way this formalism can be applied, several neural network models are embedded in a simple model environment. Such phenomena as masking, perceptual ambiguity, and priming are then observed. We also use this formalism to reinterpret examples from the embodiment literature, arguing that it provides for a more thorough analysis of the relevant phenomena.
Anaesthesia and transmural dispersion of repolarisation in children

INTRODUCTION: Prolongation of the QT interval is associated with torsades de pointes (TdP), classically in children or young adults with long QT syndromes (LQTS). Any overt or covert predisposition to TdP may be unmasked by perioperative stress. Which anaesthetic drugs are safest to use in these patients? Susceptibility to TdP arises from increased transmural dispersion of repolarisation (TDR) across the myocardial wall, rather than QT interval prolongation per se [1]. Agents that don’t increase TDR would be useful in minimising any increased perioperative risk of TdP. Several anaesthetic drugs prolong the QT interval, but their effect on TDR is unknown. TDR can be measured on the ECG as the time interval between the peak and end of the T wave (Tp-e) [2]. We have investigated the effects of propofol and sevoflurane on the QT and Tp-e intervals in children.
Gram-Negative Anaerobic Bacilli: Their Role in Infection and Patterns of Susceptibility to Antimicrobial Agents. II. Little-Known Fusobacterium Species and Miscellaneous Genera

Twenty infrequently reported species of gram-negative anaerobic bacilli other than Fusobacterium nucleatum, Fusobacterium necrophorum, and members of the genus Bacteroides were studied with regard to their role in infection and their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. In addition, the literature regarding the recovery of these organisms from both the normal flora and infections of humans was reviewed. During a six-year period at the Wadsworth Clinical Anaerobic Bacteriology Research Laboratory (Veterans Administration Wadsworth Medical Center, Los Angeles, Calif.), 39 (6%) of 679 specimens obtained from anaerobic infections yielded "other gram-negative anaerobic bacilli" (OGNAB). Fusobacterium naviforme, Fusobacterium gonidiaformans, Fusobacterium varium, Fusobacterium mortiferum, and Fusobacterium russii were the most commonly isolated OGNAB. Most of the OGNAB tested were resistant to erythromycin, and most strains, except for F. varium, were susceptible to beta-lactam antibiotics and clindamycin. Chloramphenicol and metronidazole were active against all strains of OGNAB tested. Certain Fusobacterium species are undoubtedly previously unrecognized members of the normal flora of the oropharynx, upper respiratory tract, or urogenital tract and may be present in infections derived from these floras.
Examples of Extended Empirical Orthogonal Function Analyses

Abstract An extended empirical orthogonal function analysis technique is described which expands a data set in terms of functions which are the “best” representation of that data set for a sequence of time points. The method takes advantage of the fact that geophysical fields are often significantly correlated in both space and time. Two examples of applications of this technique are given which suggest it may be a highly useful tool for diagnosing the modes of variation of dominant sequences of events. In the first, an analysis of 300 mb relative vorticity, fairly regular advection of the major features of the spatial patterns is evident. Westward speeds of between 0.3 and 0.4 m s−1 are inferred. The second example illustrates extended functions of tropical Pacific Ocean surface temperatures. The dominant function, which is associated with El Nino, shows a high degree of persistence over a six-month sequence. The second most important function suggests opposing variations in the influences of the North a...
Dynamics of a flexible loop in dihydrofolate reductase from Escherichia coli and its implication for catalysis

Apo-dihydrofolate reductase from Escherichia coli samples two distinct environments slowly on the NMR time scale at room temperature. Several assigned resonances belong to residues in, or proximal to, a loop (loop I) which is comprised of residues 9-24. This exchange process was altered (either removed or made fast on the NMR time scale) by deleting three hairpin turn forming residues from the loop and filling the gap with a single glycine [Li, L., Falzone, C. J., Wright, P. E., & Benkovic, S. J. (1992) Biochemistry 31, 7826-7833]. An approximate value of 35 s-1 for the exchange rate associated with loop I in apo-DHFR was obtained in two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser spectra by analyzing the time dependence of the cross-peak volume for N epsilon H of Trp-22, a residue which is located in this loop and which has resolved cross-peaks. Owing to the critical role that this loop plays in catalysis, the correspondence between this rate of conformational exchange and off-rates for tetrahydrofolate and the reduced nicotinamide cofactor from product and substrate complexes suggests that loop movement may be a limiting factor in substrate turnover.
Accurate numerical orbital MBPT/CC study of the electron affinity of fluorine and the dissociation energy of hydrogen fluoride

The classic problem of the dissociation energy of FH and the electron affinity of F have been studied using our recent proposed numerical orbital coupled‐cluster (CC) method. With 105 orbitals, 96.6% of the correlation energy of FH is obtained, and exact agreement with the experimental dissociation energy. Similarly, the electron affinity of F is found to be 3.37 eV compared to an experimental value of 3.399 eV.
Neural correlates of admiration and compassion

In an fMRI experiment, participants were exposed to narratives based on true stories designed to evoke admiration and compassion in 4 distinct categories: admiration for virtue (AV), admiration for skill (AS), compassion for social/psychological pain (CSP), and compassion for physical pain (CPP). The goal was to test hypotheses about recruitment of homeostatic, somatosensory, and consciousness-related neural systems during the processing of pain-related (compassion) and non-pain-related (admiration) social emotions along 2 dimensions: emotions about other peoples' social/psychological conditions (AV, CSP) and emotions about others' physical conditions (AS, CPP). Consistent with theoretical accounts, the experience of all 4 emotions engaged brain regions involved in interoceptive representation and homeostatic regulation, including anterior insula, anterior cingulate, hypothalamus, and mesencephalon. However, the study also revealed a previously undescribed pattern within the posteromedial cortices (the ensemble of precuneus, posterior cingulate cortex, and retrosplenial region), an intriguing territory currently known for its involvement in the default mode of brain operation and in self-related/consciousness processes: emotions pertaining to social/psychological and physical situations engaged different networks aligned, respectively, with interoceptive and exteroceptive neural systems. Finally, within the anterior insula, activity correlated with AV and CSP peaked later and was more sustained than that associated with CPP. Our findings contribute insights on the functions of the posteromedial cortices and on the recruitment of the anterior insula in social emotions concerned with physical versus psychological pain.
Abstract 2325: Increase in neuroblastoma metastasis after dual inhibition of VEGF and Notch

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Purpose: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition is a validated cancer treatment. However, even in responsive tumors, acquired resistance is common. Notch proteins also function as key angiogenic effectors, and cross-regulate VEGF expression, raising the question of whether combined treatment would enhance tumor suppression. We hypothesized that dual VEGF/Notch blockade would inhibit tumor growth in experimental SY5Y neuroblastoma. Methods: SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were lentivirally transfected to express Notch1-decoy (N1D) or GFP (control). Proliferation was assessed in vitro under both hypoxia and normoxia using BrdU assays. To examine the effect of N1D on tumor growth, 10[6] cells were xenografted intrarenally in nude mice and treated with placebo or bevacizumab (BV) twice a week. Tumor progression was monitored by bioluminescence. Metastatic burden in target organs was quantified by bioluminescence and histology. Vascular disruption due to N1D and BV treatment was evaluated by immunostaining. IACUC approval was obtained for all experiments. Results: Expression of soluble N1D was confirmed by immunoblotting conditioned media. SY5Y+N1D cells proliferated more rapidly in hypoxia than control SY5Y+GFP cells (p<0.01). In vivo, BV treatment alone significantly reduced tumor growth as compared to placebo (p=0.026). However, combined treatment (N1D + BV) did not further reduce SY5Y tumor growth as compared to BV treatment alone (p=0.684). Interestingly, dual-treated mice developed higher metastatic burdens in liver than mice treated with either agent alone or controls by bioluminescence (p=0.006). By histology, dual-treated mice displayed a higher incidence of liver metastasis (7/9 mice) vs. mice treated with BV only (3/10 mice). Immunostaining demonstrated disruption of tumor vessel architecture in BV- and N1D + BV-treated mice. Conclusion: Dual VEGF/Notch targeting of SY5Y tumors resulted in increased metastatic burden, without affecting primary tumor growth, as compared to either treatment alone. Recent data indicates that tumoral hypoperfusion can promote progression, potentially by selecting for biologically aggressive behaviors. Our results suggest that dual Notch/VEGF blockade causes an enhanced propensity to metastasize. These data warrant further preclinical investigation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2325. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2325
Intramolecular catalysis in the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl o-methanesulfonamidobenzoate

Abstract The kinetics of hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl o-methanesulfonamidobenzoate and p-nitrophenyl p-methanesulfonamidobenzoate were determined in 1·6% acetonitrile-water at 25° in the pH range 7–13. The ratio of observed first-order rate constants for the hydrolysis of the ortho and para compounds, ko/kp, is pH dependent with ko being one-fifth kp at pH 13 but 40-fold larger than kp at pH 8·7. A sigmoid pH-rate profile for the ortho isomer is evidence for neighboring group participation and indicates that an ionizable group of pKa 8·5 functions catalytically. This pKa value agrees with the the spectrophotometrically determined pKa of p-nitrophenyl o-methanesulfonamidobenzoate (8·41). Experiments with D2O and others with azide ion as a nucleophile show that hydrolysis proceeds via either a general base or a general acid-specific hydroxide catalysis, and that there is no nucleophilic participation by the ionized sulfonamido substituent.
Bioaccumulation and transport of contaminants: migrating sockeye salmon as vectors of mercury.

Biological transport by migratory animals is increasingly recognized as important to the long-range dispersal of toxic contaminants. Mercury (Hg) contamination is a widespread environmental concern with serious health implications for humans and wildlife. Due to their unique life history, anadromous salmon may act as important vectors for this contaminant, transferring Hg between marine and freshwater ecosystems. Previous analyses have considered contaminant transport by salmon to be unidirectional. These studies have evaluated Hg import to freshwater by spawning adults, but have not quantitatively assessed export through the migration of juveniles to the ocean. To determine the total Hg burden to freshwater systems by sockeye salmon, we reconstructed the net transport of Hg to the Wood River System in Bristol Bay, Alaska accounting for fluxes in (via adults) and out (via juveniles) of the system. Hg concentrations were higher in juvenile than adult salmon. Hg export from freshwater systems by salmon rang...
High-power, high brightness semiconductor lasers

Broad-stripe (greater than or equal to 100 microns) diode lasers have achieved CW powers as high as 15W, and wallplug efficiencies as high as 70%. For high coherent power photonic-crystal structures with modulated gain, that is active photonic crystals (APCs), of large index steps have been used, as early as 1988, for effective lateral-mode control range in large-aperture (100-200 microns) devices. Photonic-bandpass (PBP) structures relying on long-range resonant leaky-wave coupling, so called ROW arrays, have allowed stable, near-diffraction-limited beam operation to powers as high as 1.6W CW and 10W peak pulsed. Photonic-bandgap (PBG) structures with a built-in lattice defect, so called ARROW lasers, have provided up to 0.5W CW stable, single-mode power and hold the potential for 1W CW highly reliable single-mode operation. The solution for high-efficiency surface emission, from 2 nd -order DFB/DBR lasers, in a single-lobe beam pattern was found in 2000. Single-lobe and single-mode operation in a diffraction-limited beam orthonormal to the chip surface was demonstrated, which opens the way for the realization of 2-D surface-emitting, 2 nd -order APCs for the stable generation of watts of CW single-lobe, single-mode power from large 2-D apertures, as well as scalability of such devices at the wafer level.
Log-terminal singularities and vanishing theorems via non-standard tight closure

Generalizing work of Smith and Hara, we give a new characterization of logterminal singularities for finitely generated algebras over C, in terms of purity properties of ultraproducts of characteristic p Frobenii. As a first application we obtain a Boutot-type theorem for log-terminal singularities: given a pure morphism Y → X between affine Q-Gorenstein varieties of finite type over C, if Y has at most a log-terminal singularities, then so does X . The second application is the Vanishing for Maps of Tor for log-terminal singularities: if A ⊆ R is a Noether Normalization of a finitely generated C-algebra R and S is an R-algebra of finite type with log-terminal singularities, then the natural morphism Tori (M, R) → Tori (M, S) is zero, for every A-module M and every i ≥ 1. The final application is Kawamata-Viehweg Vanishing for a connected projective variety X of finite type over C whose affine cone has a log-terminal vertex (for some choice of polarization). As a corollary, we obtain a proof of the following conjecture of Smith: if G is the complexification of a real Lie group acting algebraically on a projective smooth Fano variety X , then for any numerically effective line bundle L on any GIT quotient Y := X//G, each cohomology module Hi(Y,L) vanishes for i > 0, and, if L is moreover big, then Hi(Y,L−1) vanishes for i < dim Y .
A computer oriented method for generating test problems for L1 regression

A numerical method for obtaining data (X|y), relative to the linear model , is given. The user is allowed to specify column means for the X matrix, the general order of condition number, the unique L1 solution vector and the deviations of y's about the fitted hyperplane. Implementation of the method requires little more than use of subroutines found in most modern subroutine libraries. Computer generated data of this kind are useful in numerical studies of the operating characteristics of different algorithms.
Regimes of Religion and State: A Widening Atlantic?

The ‘Atlantic Gap’ usually refers to differences in religious commitment between the United States and Europe. In this paper, I argue that the gap extends beyond religious intensity to ‘regimes’ of religion and state, defined as the system of norms, rules, decision styles and other elements that influence how religion is treated in the public square. To illustrate the differences between the contrasting American and Western European regimes, I compare how the two systems react when a specific religious minority – Muslims – attempts to build religious facilities. In this case, despite comparable levels of public hostility to Muslims on both sides of the Atlantic, the American system provides considerably more legal protection to religious minorities than the Western European regime.
Metformin improves atypical protein kinase C activation by insulin and phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-(PO4)3 in muscle of diabetic subjects.

Metformin is widely used for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, but its actions are poorly understood. In addition to diminishing hepatic glucose output, metformin, in muscle, activates 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which alone increases glucose uptake and glycolysis, diminishes lipid synthesis, and increases oxidation of fatty acids. Moreover, such lipid effects may improve insulin sensitivity and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Nevertheless, the effects of metformin on insulin-sensitive signalling factors in human muscle have only been partly characterised to date. Interestingly, other substances that activate AMPK, e.g., aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-riboside (AICAR), simultaneously activate atypical protein kinase C (aPKC), which appears to be required for the glucose transport effects of AICAR and insulin. Since aPKC activation is defective in type 2 diabetes, we evaluated effects of metformin therapy on aPKC activity in muscles of diabetic subjects during hyperinsulinaemic–euglycaemic clamp studies. After metformin therapy for 1 month, basal aPKC activity increased in muscle, with little or no change in insulin-stimulated aPKC activity. Metformin therapy for 8 to 12 months improved insulin-stimulated, as well as basal aPKC activity in muscle. In contrast, IRS-1-dependent phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase activity and Ser473 phosphorylation of protein kinase B were not altered by metformin therapy, whereas the responsiveness of muscle aPKC to PI-3,4,5-(PO4)3, the lipid product of PI 3-kinase, was improved. These findings suggest that the activation of AMPK by metformin is accompanied by increases in aPKC activity and responsiveness in skeletal muscle, which may contribute to the therapeutic effects of metformin.
Poludnista Dorsa, Venus: History and context of a deformation belt

[1] Rolling lowlands comprise 80% of Venus's surface, and thus developing a geological understating of resurfacing and tectonism is critical for our understanding of Venus' evolution. In this paper, global, regional, and local approaches to interpreting Magellan synthetic aperture radar and altimetry radar data are used to constrain modes of lowland evolution, convection processes, and lithospheric structure. Detailed geologic mapping is combined with altimetry data test models of deformation belt evolution in Venus's lowlands. Poludnista Dorsa, a complex 2000-km-long deformation belt, is highly segmented and broadly time transgressive. Long-wavelength deformation is spatially independent of local short-wavelength deformation within the deformation belt and temporally predates regional deformation marked by wrinkle ridges. A mechanically layered lithosphere of regional extent is not required by the local geologic history; local lithospheric thinning or progressive regional thickening of the mechanical layer better explains the observed sequence of events.
Social affordances of computer-mediated communication technology: understanding adoption

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) technology includes messaging systems, such as e-mail, and conferencing technologies designed to facilitate group work. Technology researchers argue that CMC adoption fails when it interferes with subtle and complex social dynamics of groups. Yet, empirical studies of CMC use which explicitly associate social behavior with design features are largely absent from the literature. Also absent are conceptual tools for detecting and describing such behavior. This research addresses these absences by closely examining how CMC design supports social interaction among distributed work groups and thus, stimulates or suppresses adoption. Contributions of this work are a principled understanding of sociotechnical issues surrounding CMC use and recommendations for design.
Effect of timing of initiation of resynchronization and presynchronization with gonadotropin-releasing hormone on fertility of resynchronized inseminations in lactating dairy cows

Lactating Holstein cows (n=1,456) were randomized in a 2×2 factorial design to compare the main effects of day of initiation of resynchronization after artificial insemination (AI; 32 vs. 39 d) and presynchronization with GnRH 7d before initiation of resynchronization on fertility to timed AI (TAI). This design resulted in the following 4 resynchronization treatments: (1) resynchronization (GnRH treatment, PGF2α treatment 7d later, GnRH treatment 56 h later, and TAI 16 h later), initiated 32 ± 3 d after AI; (2) presynchronization with 100 µg of GnRH 25 ± 3 d after AI and resynchronization initiated 32 ± 3 d after AI at nonpregnancy diagnosis; (3) resynchronization initiated 39 ± 3 d after AI (GPG39); and (4) presynchronization with 100 µg of GnRH 32 ± 3 d after AI at nonpregnancy diagnosis and resynchronization initiated 39 ± 3 d after AI. Overall, 344 cows were inseminated at estrus between enrollment (25 ± 3 d after AI) and TAI of the resynchronization treatments, and 1,112 cows received TAI. Progesterone (P4) was analyzed in blood samples collected from all cows at the first GnRH injection of the resynchronization protocols (G1), and ovarian structures were evaluated and blood samples were collected at G1, at the PGF2α injection, and at the TAI of the resynchronization protocols in a subgroup of cows (n=417). When analyzed as main effects, cows presynchronized with GnRH had more pregnancies per AI (P/AI) than nonpresynchronized cows (38.9 vs. 33.8%), whereas timing of initiation of resynchronization did not affect P/AI. Although cows with high P4 at G1 had greater P/AI than cows with low P4 (38.7 vs. 31.8%), presynchronization with GnRH did not increase the proportion of cows with high P4 (>1.0 ng/mL) at G1 but moved cows from a low-P4 environment to an intermediate-P4 level. Presynchronization with GnRH also decreased the percentage of cows with low P4 at the PGF2α injection, thereby increasing synchrony to the protocol. Cows with high P4 at G1 had a decreased ovulatory response to G1 compared with cows with low P4 (40.9 vs. 69.1%), and cows that ovulated to G1 had decreased luteal regression after PGF2α compared with cows that did not ovulate (78.5 vs. 87.3%). We conclude that presynchronization with GnRH 7d before initiation of resynchronization increased fertility in dairy cows, whereas timing of initiation of resynchronization did not.
Disease and the Extended Phenotype: Parasites Control Host Performance and Survival through Induced Changes in Body Plan

Background: By definition, parasites harm their hosts. However, some forms of parasite-induced alterations increase parasite transmission between hosts, such that manipulated hosts can be considered extensions of the parasite’s phenotype. While well accepted in principle, surprisingly few studies have quantified how parasite manipulations alter host performance and survival under field and laboratory conditions. Methodology/Principal Findings: By interfering with limb development, the trematode Ribeiroia ondatrae causes particularly severe morphological alterations within amphibian hosts that provide an ideal system to evaluate parasiteinduced changes in phenotype. Here, we coupled laboratory performance trials with a capture-mark-recapture study of 1388 Pacific chorus frogs (Pseudacris regilla) to quantify the effects of parasite-induced malformations on host locomotion, foraging, and survival. Malformations, which affected ,50% of metamorphosing frogs in nature, caused dramatic reductions in all measures of organismal function. Malformed frogs exhibited significantly shorter jumping distances (41% reduction), slower swimming speeds (37% reduction), reduced endurance (66% reduction), and lower foraging success relative to infected hosts without malformations. Furthermore, while normal and malformed individuals had comparable survival within predator-free exclosures, deformed frogs in natural populations had 22% lower biweekly survival than normal frogs and rarely recruited to the adult population over a two-year period. Conclusions/Significance: Our results highlight the ability of parasites to deeply alter multiple dimensions of host phenotype with important consequences for performance and survival. These patterns were best explained by malformation status, rather than infection per se, helping to decouple the direct and indirect effects of parasitism on host fitness.
Tolmetin sodium in the management of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

sant drugs may produce a similar state of confusion, with hallucinations, disorientation, anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and exacerbation of psychosis in a few susceptible individuals. 8 Many studies have suggested that carbamazepine has beneficial psychotr0Pic actions, so it is not surprising that it may also produce occasional adverse emotional reactions. Until it is more clear which factors may predispose children to behavioral toxicity, it may be prudent to initiate therapy cautiously and at a low dose in certain patients, especially those with preexisting psychopathologic problems or retardation. Five of our seven patients were eventually able to tolerate the drug when it was reintroduced slowly. This experience suggests that if carbamazepine is needed for seizure control, a previous adverse behavioral reaction is not an absolute contraindication to another careful trial. R E F E R E N C E S 1. Huf R, and Schain R: Long-term experiences with carbamazepine (Tegretol) in children with seizures, J PEDIATR 97:310, 1980. 2. Wallace S: Carbamazepine in childhood seizures, Dev Med Child Neurol 20:223, 1978. 3. Johnston MV, and Freeman JM: Pharmacologic advances in seizure control Pediatr Clin North Am 28:179, 1981. 4. Dodrill CB, and Troupin AS: Psychotropic effects of carbamazepine in epilepsy: A double blind comparison with phenytoin, Neurology 27:1023, 1977. 5. Sillanpaa M: Carbamazepine: Pharmacology and clinical uses, Acta Neurol Scand [Suppl] 88:97, 1981. 6. Livingston S, Pauli LL, and Berman W: Carbamazepine (Tegretol) in epilepsy, Dis Nerv Syst 35:103, 1974. 7. Stores A: Behavioral effects of antiepileptic drugs, Dev Med Child Neurol 17:647, 1975. 8. Goodman A, and Gilman L: The pharmacologic basis of therapeutics, New York, 1980, Macmillan, Inc.
Baby Doe rules have been interpreted and applied by an appellate court.

To the Editor .— I applaud the effort of Dr Kopelman1 to call attention to the disparities inherent in applying the Baby Doe rules and her courage in calling for the American Academy of Pediatrics to withdraw its apparent backing for them. I particularly appreciate her support for the continued application of the best-interests standard as being appropriate. However, I would like to correct one small misstatement. In Appendix 1 Dr Kopelman states that the current Baby Doe rules “are untested by the courts” and then provides the text of 45 CFR §1340.15 (b)(2). This section first mandates indicated medical treatment and then provides 3 narrow exceptions to providing this treatment; it is these 3 exceptions that we generally refer to as the Baby Doe rules. Although it is true that the exceptions themselves have never been the direct target of a challenge, this section was …
Changes in specific sequestration of protein during transport into the developing oocyte of the chicken.

Abstract Coinjection of pairs of 125I- and 131I-labelled proteins into the circulation of laying hens, demonstrated that not all stages in oocyte development had the same capacity to accumulate the injected proteins. With increasing size, up to 200 mg wet weight, small oocytes accumulated IgG (or γ-livetin) at rates which did not parallel those for other proteins: after 200 mg a parallelism was apparent.
Prevention of HIV-1 infection by phthalocyanines

Abstract The ability of selected phthalocyanines and metallophthalocyanines to block HIV infection has been evaluated in an epithelial HeLa–CD4 cell line with an integrated LTR-β-galactosidase gene. Sulfonated phthalocyanine itself (PcS), as well as its copper, nickel, and vanadyl chelates, were the most effective in blocking viral infection. These compounds were also very effective in blocking the fusion activity of the viral Env proteins. All of these compounds are expected to bind axial ligands weakly or not at all. In contrast, sulfonated phthalocyanines bearing metals expected to bind axial ligands more tightly (aluminum, cobalt, chromium, iron, silicon, and zinc) were less effective in blocking HIV infection and also less effective at inhibiting fusion. A number of active compounds were found to block binding of gp120 to CD4. Selected cationic and carboxy phthalocyanines, as well as porphyrazines, were also evaluated. Our results indicate that at least some of the compounds render the virus noninfectious, i.e. that they are virucidal. These compounds have potential as microbicides that might be used to provide protection against sexually transmitted HIV.
Speech Perception in Individuals With Auditory Neuropathy

Purpose Speech perception in participants with auditory neuropathy (AN) was systematically studied to answer the following 2 questions: Does noise present a particular problem for people with AN? Can clear speech and cochlear implants alleviate this problem? Method The researchers evaluated the advantage in intelligibility of clear speech over conversational speech in 13 participants with AN. Of these participants, 7 had received a cochlear implant. Eight sentence-recognition experiments were conducted to examine the clear speech advantage in 2 listening conditions (quiet and noise) using 4 stimulation modes (monaural acoustic, diotic acoustic, monaural electric, and binaurally combined acoustic and electric stimulation). Results Participants with AN performed more poorly in speech recognition in noise than did the normal-hearing, cochlear-impaired, and cochlear implant controls. A significant clear speech advantage was observed, ranging from 9 to 23 percentage points in intelligibility for all listening ...
Feeding distiller's grains as an energy source to gestating and lactating beef heifers: Impact on female progeny growth, puberty attainment, and reproductive processes

This study compared postweaning growth, puberty attainment, and reproductive processes of female progeny (n = 33) born to Angus-Simmental beef heifers treated with either a control diet or a diet in which dried distiller’s grains with solubles (DDGS) were fed as an energy source during late gestation and early lactation. From 192 d of gestation through 118 ± 4 d in lactation, dams were fed either a corn silage–based control diet (CON) orcorn residue with DDGS, where DDGS were supplemented as an energy source (DG). Diets were formulated to provide similar daily NEg between diets, but CP requirements were drastically exceeded in the DG treatment. Heifer progeny (n = 33) were weaned, commingled at 191 ± 4 d of age, and similarly managed for the remainder of the project. Heifer BW and blood samples for progesterone assessment to determine onset of puberty were collected weekly beginning at weaning. At 255 ± 4 d of age, a single follicular wave was mapped via ultrasonography in 10 prepubertal heifers per treatment. Prepubertal antral follicle count and ovarian size were determined at 253 ± 4 d of age. Hip height was recorded at 213,297, and 437 ± 4 d of age. Estrous synchronization and AI was initiated at 447 ± 4 d of age. Binary data were analyzed with the GLIMMIX procedures of SAS and all other data were analyzed with the MIXED procedures of SAS. Progeny from DG-treated dams tended to be heavier (P = 0.08) than progeny from CON-treated dams from weaning until breeding. In addition, DG progeny had a greater (P < 0.01) frame score than CON throughout the developmental period. Ovarian size, antral follicle count, and follicular growth parameters did not differ between treatments. Age at puberty did not differ between CON (303 ± 10 d) and DG (320 ± 10 d) progeny; however, BW at puberty was greater (P = 0.01) for DG (326 ± 7 kg) than CON (298 ± 8 kg) progeny. Pregnancy rates to AI were greater (P = 0.05) in DG progeny (70.6%) than CON (33.3%), but overall breeding season pregnancy rate did not differ (P = 0.97). Moreover, rate of dystocia in female progeny at first parturition and grand-offspring birth BW did not differ due to treatment (P ≥ 0.74). In summary, feeding DDGS as an energy source during late gestation and early lactation to first-parity heifers resulted in female progeny with greater skeletal growth that were heavier at onset of puberty and had increased AI pregnancy rates.
Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Deficiency in Bone Marrow–Derived Cells Augments Rupture of Angiotensin II–Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Objective— Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are associated with fragmentation of extracellular matrix during development of aortic dilation and rupture. Therefore, it is important to identify specific protease systems involved in extracellular matrix degradation during AAA formation. The present study determined the contribution of the urokinase system to AAA formation and rupture. Methods and Results— Angiotensin II (Ang II)–induced AAAs were associated with increased aortic abundance of both urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) proteins. However, this increased presence was unrelated to AAA formation because deficiencies of either uPAR or uPA had no effect on either the incidence or size of Ang II–induced AAAs in both normolipidemic mice and low-density lipoprotein receptor−/− mice fed a saturated fat–enriched diet. Although uPA deficiency did not affect development of AAAs, there was an effect of increasing mortality rate from AAA rupture in hypercholesterolemic mice. Bone marrow transplantation demonstrated that enhanced aneurysmal rupture was attributable to deficiency of uPA in leukocytes. uPA deficiency led to an increased propensity for impaired resolution of the thrombotic material within the aneurysmal tissue. Neither uPAR nor uPA deficiency had any effect on Ang II–induced atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor−/− mice. Conclusion— The uPA-uPAR axis has no effect on the formation of Ang II–induced AAAs, but uPA deficiency promotes aneurysmal rupture.
Reversal by lecithin of the amobarbital-induced inhibition of microsomal (Na+K)-activated ATPase.

L'amobarbital de soude inhibe l'activite du (Na+K)-ATPase du reticule sarcoplasmique isole. Cette inhibition peut etre evitee par l'addition de lecithine purifiee. La lecithine pre-incubee en presence de l'amobarbital inhibe (Na+K)-ATPase.
Digital pyrometry in a solar furnace

Abstract The brightness temperature and emissivity measurements of an irradiated specimen at the focal point of a solar furnace have been performed by the use of a brightness pyrometer to which an electrical recorder, an oscilloscope and Polaroid camera were attached previously. The use of such a photographic method gave reading errors as ±2K at 3000°C and ±15K at 2000°C. Therefore, a digital computer system has been coupled with the brightness pyrometer in order to give the higher accuracy in brightness and true temperature measurements and to process a large amount of data. The system consists of A/D converter, central processing unit, graphic display and other transfer units. After an analog signal from the brightness pyrometer was amplified by a dc amplifier, the signal converted into digital form was operated by the digital computer. Conversion errors in the data processing were found to be ±1K at 3000°C and ±7K at 2000°C respectively. The freezing point data by the new system on refractory oxides such as ZrO 2 and Y 2 O 3 were presented.
Role of solid surface structure on evaporative phase change from a completely wetting corner meniscus

The transport processes that occur at small length scales are greatly influenced by interfacial and intermolecular forces. Surface roughness at the nanoscale generates additional intermolecular interactions that arise due to the increased surface area. In this work, we have experimentally studied how the magnitude as well as the shape of surface roughness influences the microscale transport processes that occur in the contact line region of a liquid corner meniscus. The surface roughness contribution to the interaction potential was calculated and a direct relationship between the wetting properties of the liquid and the underlying surface properties was obtained. Since the underlying roughness alters the surface potential, the shape of the meniscus and in turn, the resulting capillary and disjoining pressure forces also changed. Atomic force microscopy was utilized to obtain a detailed characterization of the shape of the prepared surfaces. Surface morphology features were obtained from a height-height c...
What the ACGME’s Next Accreditation System Means to You

Note from the Editor-in-Chief: We are pleased to introduce readers of Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research®to CORR® Curriculum – Orthopaedic Education, a new quarterly column. The goal of this column is to focus on the mechanics of resident education. In his first column, Dr. Paul J. Dougherty, residency program director at Detroit Medical Center, details how residency programs are expected to implement the Next Accreditation System for the next generation of orthopaedists. We welcome reader feedback on all of our columns and articles; please send your comments to eic@clinorthop.org. Each author certifies that he or she, or a member of his or her immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, and do not reflect the opinion or policy of CORR® or the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons®.
Uncorrelated change produces the apparent dependence of evolutionary rate on interval

Abstract An intriguing phenomenon in the study of evolutionary rates of morphological change measured from fossil lineages has been the dependence of these rates on the inverse of the measurement interval. This effect has been reported across wide ranges of species as well as within single lineages, and has been interpreted as representing a smooth extension of evolutionary rate from generational timescales to paleontological timescales, suggesting that macroevolution may be simply microevolution extended over longer intervals. There has been some debate about whether this inverse dependence is a real feature of evolutionary change, or a mathematical or psychological artifact associated with the interpretation of data. Our analysis indicates that the strong inverse dependence of rate on interval is an artifact produced by the phenomenon of spurious self-correlation. Spurious self-correlation can appear in any calculation when a ratio is plotted against its denominator, as is done in plotting rate versus i...
Effect of surrounding vegetation on edge-related tree mortality in Amazonian forest fragments

Little is known about factors that cause spatial variability in edge effects, the diverse physical and biotic changes associated with the abrupt boundaries of fragmented forests. We examined the influence of three types of surrounding vegetation (cattle pastures, Cecropia-dominated regrowth, and Vismia-dominated regrowth), on edge-related tree mortality in Amazonian rainforest fragments. An ANCOVA revealed that the type of surrounding vegetation and distance to edge both had significant effects on tree mortality. Differences among vegetation types were greatest within 0–20 m of fragment edges, with edges bordered by cattle pastures having higher mortality than those bordered by Cecropia- and Vismia-dominated regrowth. Edge effects appeared to penetrate further into pasture-bordered edges (ca. 60–100 m) than those bordered by regrowth forest (ca. 40–60 m), but this difference was nonsignificant because of considerable patchiness in tree mortality. Overall, our results suggest that edge effects in forest fragments are significantly influenced by the structure of surrounding vegetation, and that the capacity of different regrowth forests to buffer edge effects can be predicted from the growth form and stand features of the dominant tree species. Management of surrounding vegetation can ameliorate the negative effects of edge creation on small forest fragments.
Differing mechanisms of inhibition of calcium increases in human uterine myocytes by indomethacin and nimesulide.

Abstract Objective: Indomethacin, an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase types 1 and 2, and nimesulide, a cyclooxygenase 2 selective inhibitor, are both well-known inhibitors of prostaglandin production. It has been assumed that the tocolytic mechanism of nimesulide and indomethacin is only through decreased prostaglandin production. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that either nimesulide or indomethacin, or both, has a mechanism of action on human myocytes other than inhibition of prostaglandin production. Study Design: Human uterine myometrium was obtained from consenting patients during cesarean deliveries. Myocytes were cultured, plated, and loaded with a calcium-dependent fluorescent dye, calcium green 1. The relative concentrations of intracellular free calcium were determined by measurement of time-dependent fluorescence changes by means of a video fluorimeter. In all experiments, cells were stimulated with prostaglandin F 2 α , 30 μmol/L. Experiments were performed without pretreatment (control) or with pretreatment consisting of indomethacin, 10 μmol/L, or nimesulide, 30 μmol/L. The percentages of cells demonstrating calcium increases were counted and compared by means of the Fisher exact test. A P value=.05 was considered significant. Results: After prostaglandin F 2 α exposure, 33% of cells showed an increase in intracellular free calcium under control conditions. When pretreated with nimesulide, 39% of cells responded to prostaglandin F 2 α ( P = .59). When pretreated with indomethacin, only 16% of cells responded to prostaglandin F 2 α ( P = .019). Conclusions: Pretreatment with nimesulide failed to reduce the fraction of cells that responded to prostaglandin F 2 α . In contrast, pretreatment with indomethacin significantly reduced the fraction of responding cells. These data suggest that, in vitro, indomethacin exhibits a mechanism of tocolysis other than inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:1100-3.)
Epidemiologic and zoonotic aspects of ascarid infections in dogs and cats

Toxocaracanis and Toxocara cati of dogs and cats, respectively, can cause significant disease in people. Human seroprevalence for Toxocara antibodies varies with factors such as geographic location, socio-economic status, and dietary habits. Risk factors for infection include geophagia and low-level education. Toxocara canis is better recognized as a cause of human toxocariasis, but Toxocara cati should not be overlooked. In addition, patent infections with Baylisascaris procyonis, the raccoon ascarid, have been increasingly recognized in dogs. Pet owners need to be properly educated about zoonotic risks, and veterinarians should institute regular parasite screening and treatment for all pets. Establishment of national surveillance programs to determine the incidence and specific etiological agent in human larva migrans patients would aid in the development of targeted intervention strategies.
Ester-free thiol–ene dental restoratives—Part B: Composite development

Abstract Objectives To assess the performance of thiol–ene dental composites based on selected ester-free thiol–ene formulations. Further, to point out the benefits/drawback of having a hydrolytically stable thiol–ene matrix within a glass filled composite. Methods Composite samples containing 50–65 wt% of functionalized glass microparticles were prepared and photopolymerized in the presence of a suitable visible light photoinitiator. Shrinkage stress measurements were conducted as a function of the irradiation time. Degrees of conversion were measured by FT-IR analysis by comparing the double bond signals before and after photopolymerization. Mechanical tests were carried out on specimens after curing as well as after extended aging in water. Dynamic mechanical analysis was employed to track the changes in storage modulus near body temperature. The properties of the thiol–ene composites were compared with those of the BisGMA/TEGDMA control. Results Depending on the resin type, similar or higher conversions were achieved in thiol–ene composites when compared to the dimethacrylate controls. At comparable conversions, lower shrinkage stress values were achieved. Although exhibiting lower initial elastic moduli, the thiol–ene composites’ flexural strengths were found to be comparable with the controls. Contrary to the control, the mechanical properties of the ester-free thiol–ene composites were shown to be unaffected by extensive aging in water and at least equaled that of the control after aging in water for just five weeks. Significance Employing non-degradable step-growth networks as organic matrices in dental composites will provide structurally uniform, tough materials with extended service time.