cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Discrete-Jointed Robot Model Based Control Strategy for Spatial Continuum Manipulators

In this paper, a novel strategy is designed for trajectory control of a multi-section continuum robot in three-dimensional space to achieve accurate orientation, curvature, and section length tracking. The formulation connects the continuum manipulator dynamic behavior to a virtual discrete-jointed robot whose degrees of freedom are directly mapped to those of a continuum robot section. Based on this connection, a computed torque control architecture is developed for the virtual robot, for which inverse kinematics and dynamic equations are constructed and exploited, with appropriate transformations developed for implementation on the continuum robot. The control algorithm is implemented on a six degree-of-freedom two-section OctArm continuum manipulator. Experimental results show that the proposed method managed simultaneous extension/contraction, bending, and torsion actions on multi-section continuum robots with decent tracking performance (steady state arc length and curvature tracking error of merely 3.3mm and 0.13m-1, respectively). These results demonstrate that the proposed method can be applied to multi-section continuum manipulators and perform complex maneuvers within a nonlinear setting.
Automated Computer Vision Assessment of Hypomimia in Parkinson Disease: Proof-of-Principle Pilot Study.

Background: Facial expressions require the complex coordination of 43 different facial muscles. Parkinson disease (PD) affects facial musculature leading to “hypomimia” or “masked facies.” Objective: We aimed to determine whether modern computer vision techniques can be applied to detect masked facies and quantify drug states in PD. Methods: We trained a convolutional neural network on images extracted from videos of 107 self-identified people with PD, along with 1595 videos of controls, in order to detect PD hypomimia cues. This trained model was applied to clinical interviews of 35 PD patients in their on and off drug motor states, and seven journalist interviews of the actor Alan Alda obtained before and after he was diagnosed with PD. Results: The algorithm achieved a test set area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.71 on 54 subjects to detect PD hypomimia, compared to a value of 0.75 for trained neurologists using the United Parkinson Disease Rating Scale-III Facial Expression score. Additionally, the model accuracy to classify the on and off drug states in the clinical samples was 63% (22/35), in contrast to an accuracy of 46% (16/35) when using clinical rater scores. Finally, each of Alan Alda’s seven interviews were successfully classified as occurring before (versus after) his diagnosis, with 100% accuracy (7/7). Conclusions: This proof-of-principle pilot study demonstrated that computer vision holds promise as a valuable tool for PD hypomimia and for monitoring a patient’s motor state in an objective and noninvasive way, particularly given the increasing importance of telemedicine.
“I never heard anything about it”: Knowledge and psychosocial needs of Latina breast cancer survivors with lymphedema:

Objective:Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death among Latina women in the United States. One aspect of recovery that has been und...
Antigen-specific antibody and polyfunctional T cells generated by respiratory immunization with protective Burkholderia ΔtonB Δhcp1 live attenuated vaccines.

Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei (Bpm), lacks a vaccine. We identify the immune correlates of protection induced by B. mallei ΔtonB Δhcp1 (CLH001) and Bpm ΔtonB Δhcp1 (PBK001) vaccines against inhalational melioidosis. Mucosal immunization with either vaccine generates Bpm-specific IgM and IgG (IgG2b/c > IgG1 > IgG3) antibodies in sera and lungs, and lung IgA antibodies. Sera confers complement-independent bactericidal activity and macrophages opsonophagocytic uptake but is insufficient in passive transfer experiments to provide significant protection. Both vaccines elicit memory Th1 and Th17 CD4+ T-cell responses in lung and spleen after Bpm antigen-specific recall. The PBK001 vaccine is superior in generating respiratory IgA post-boost, anamnestic IgG at challenge, T-cell recall to specific antigen, and development of diverse polyfunctional memory T-cell pools. Analysis of lung histology suggests that potent polyfunctional T-cell memory and/or IL-17 signatures generated with PBK001 vaccination may be associated with moderate lung inflammation post vaccination.
The Link between Primary School Students’ Psychosocial Outcomes and Parental School Involvement in the Department of Intibucá, Honduras

In countries facing violence, education can play an important role in ensuring children’s psychosocial adjustment. Little empirical research has examined the link between parental school involvemen...
Analytical and Clinical Evaluation of the Semiquantitative Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Receptor Binding Domain Antibody Assay on the Roche cobas e602 Analyzer.

OBJECTIVES: To analytically and clinically evaluate the semiquantitative Elecsys anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein antibody (S-Ab) assay on the Roche cobas e602 analyzer. METHODS: The S-Ab assay is a 1-step, double-antigen sandwich electrochemiluminescent immunoassay that semiquantitatively measures total IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies specific for the receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in serum or plasma. The S-Ab assay was evaluated for precision, linearity, interference (by hemoglobin, bilirubin, triglycerides, and biotin), cross-reactivity, and clinical performance, and was compared to the qualitative Elecsys anti-nucleocapsid (N-Ab) immunoassay, a lateral flow device that qualitatively detects S-Ab and N-Ab, and an anti-spike enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: S-Ab assay is precise, exhibits linearity from 0.4 to 250 U/mL, is unaffected by significant cross-reactivity or interferences, and qualitatively demonstrates greater than 90% concordance with N-Ab assay and lateral flow device. Readouts of S-Ab assay correlate with ELISA, which in turn correlates strongly with SARS-CoV-2 virus neutralization assay, and exhibit 100% sensitivity and specificity for COVID-19 patient samples obtained at or more than 14 days after PCR positivity. CONCLUSIONS: The S-Ab assay is a robust clinical test for qualitative and semiquantitative detection of seropositivity following SARS-CoV-2 infection or spike-encoding mRNA COVID-19 vaccination.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in youth with psychosis spectrum symptoms.

Abstract Background Childhood attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in psychotic disorders. However, prevalence estimates vary widely and the impact of ADHD on the severity of psychotic symptoms and associated features is unclear. We used the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort (PNC; n = 9498 youth age 8–21), which includes a comprehensive structured interview of clinical symptoms and the Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery (CNB), to clarify the prevalence of ADHD in psychosis spectrum (PS) youth and determine if comorbid ADHD is associated with severity of psychotic symptoms and cognitive impairment. Methods Prevalence of ADHD among PS youth was established by comparing PS youth to all other youth in the PNC cohort. Cognition was compared between four groups: typically developing (TD), ADHD, PS without ADHD (PS-ADHD), and PS with ADHD (PS+ADHD). To evaluate the impact of ADHD on psychosis symptomatology, severity of positive and negative psychotic symptoms was compared between PS-ADHD and PS+ADHD groups. Results ADHD was more prevalent in PS youth compared to non-PS youth (45% vs. 20%). Cognition was significantly impaired in PS youth compared to TD youth, but the presence of ADHD in PS youth was not associated with greater cognitive impairment. Co-morbid ADHD was, however, associated with more severe psychosis symptoms in PS youth. Conclusion ADHD is more common among PS youth compared to youth without PS symptoms and is associated with more severe psychotic symptoms, but not severity of cognitive impairment. The association between ADHD and psychotic disorders may be mediated by psychosis symptoms in youth and may manifest a more stable cognitive impairment.
The role of echocardiography in assessing the functional class of the patient with Ebstein's anomaly.

In 23 patients with Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve, the functional class of the patients has been related to the echocardiographic parameters generally used to diagnose this disorder. These are the extent of apical displacement of the tricuspid valve and the delay in tricuspid valve closure time related to that of the mitral valve. In addition, the functional class of the patients has also been evaluated in relation to the severity of tricuspid valve insufficiency and to the presence or absence of associated cardiac abnormalities. The study revealed that the echocardiographic parameters i.e. the degree of apical displacement of the tricuspid valve and the delayed closure time of the tricuspid valve have no predictive value for the patient's clinical condition. On the other hand, both tricuspid valve insufficiency and the presence of additional anomalies have a direct correlation with the well-being of the patient.
Linking soils to ecosystem services — A global review

Abstract Soil plays a crucial role in ecosystem functioning. In the 1990s ecosystem services (ES) research focused on developing the concept and framework and only a few studies linked soil properties to ecosystem services. This study reviews the literature on the relationship between soils and ecosystem services and aims to contribute to the scientific understanding on soil and ecosystem services and their interrelations. Most studies have focused on provisioning and regulating ES relating to soil physico-chemical properties. Cultural services had only a few studies, and supporting services were mostly related to soil physico-chemical and biological properties. The number of ES papers increased rapidly after 2000 and in the past 5 years, regulating services such as carbon sequestration, climate and gas regulations, were commonly studied. Once the concept was established in the 1990s, studies focusing on the assessment, valuation, and payments of services became more prominent. Most soil-ES research is published in Geoderma . Soil scientists seems to be hesitant to use the term ‘ecosystem services’ even if their research is devoted to linking soils to ecosystem services. We suggest that future ES research should focus on exploring soil functional diversity of soil biota and the spatial aspects of soil properties to lower level ecosystem services (e.g., water purification, gene pool, and climate regulation). Soil scientists should engage professionals from other disciplines to further promote the contribution of soils to ecosystem services delivery and human well-being. ES soil studies could be used in local and national policy development and program on natural resource use and management.
Replication of viral DNA in SPO1-infected Bacillus subtilis. II. DNA maturation during abortive infection.

Abstract Previously described work ( Levner and Cozzarelli, 1972 ) has indicated that the replication of bacteriophage SPO1 DNA in infected Bacillus subtilis involves the sequential conversion of two intermediate DNA species, “VF” and “F”, to produce mature progeny DNA. These intermediates both appear to consist of multigenome size DNA concatemers, which in “VF” are complexed with cellular protein and RNA, and the conversion of “VF” to “F” involves removal of this DNA from the complex. As described here, it is possible to disrupt this viral DNA maturation sequence either by the addition of chloramphenicol (CM) to infected cells, or by abortive infection with a suppressible pleiotropic SPO1 mutant (sus F4), which fails te direct the synthesis of a large class of late viral proteins. In both cases, an accumulation of “VF” results, accompanied by an accumulation of viral DNA strands several times the size of mature strands. The time-dependence of the CM effect shows that the capacity to produce mature viral DNA appears nearly 10 min later than the capacity for viral DNA replication, and at least one late viral protein whose synthesis is blocked by the sus F4 mutation is essential to this maturation capacity. During abortive infection by a second SPO1 mutant (sus F7). defective in the synthesis of phage heads, viral DNA maturation proceeds normally. Possible implications of this result are discussed.
Surrogate Parenting: What Should Legislatures Do?

Surrogate parenting, as seen through the lens of the Baby M case,1 has gripped the imagination of the public as do few legal issues. A custody case like that involving Baby M contains elements of high drama: a tragically mistaken choice, a broken promise, and an innocent child caught in the middle of a battle between two virtual strangers?strangers who happen to be the child's parents. Baby M has also aroused intensely partisan feelings that now shape the legislative debate over the future of surrogate parenting. Some see Mary Beth Whitehead Gould as a villainess, led only by self-interest and caprice into reneging on her promise to give a desperate, childless couple the baby they longed for?a baby who would never have been born but for her vow to give the child up to its father and his wife.2 Others see her as a victim, led by relative poverty, lack of information, and a desire to help others into an unnatural contract to bear and give up a child, a contract which she could not perform because of the natural?indeed laudable?strength of her maternal love.3 In these two different interpretations of the "facts," Whitehead's determination to keep her child has opposite meanings. To her parti
Mass balance evaluation of monitoring well purging: Part I. Theoretical models and implications for representative sampling

Abstract Mass balance models were developed to examine how monitoring well purging influences the collection of representative ground water samples. Modeling indicates that monitoring wells may provide only qualitative information on the absolute and relative abundances of solutes in ground water. Solute concentrations in a purged well may vary by over an order of magnitude depending on well construction, purging procedure, vertical concentration distributions of solutes in the ground water and the hydrogeological properties of the aquifer. Further, these dependencies limit setting a priori criteria for purging, using simple field measurements for monitoring purging completeness, and extrapolating the results of empirical purging studies. Water samples obtained from typical monitoring wells using standard purging procedures may understimate ground water contamination by orders of magnitude. Mass balance effects that occur during purging can complicate the interpretation of physical, chemical and biological conditions and processes occuring within an aquifer. Recognising that solute concentrations are likely to vary in three dimensions, the quantitative assessment of ground water requires sampling at discrete depths within an aquifer.
Opioids intrinsically inhibit the genesis of mouse cerebellar granule neuron precursors in vitro: differential impact of μ and δ receptor activation on proliferation and neurite elongation

Although opioids are known to affect neurogenesis in vivo, it is uncertain the extent to which opioids directly or indirectly affect the proliferation, differentiation or death of neuronal precursors. To address these questions, the intrinsic role of the opioid system in neurogenesis was systematically explored in cerebellar external granular layer (EGL) neuronal precursors isolated from postnatal mice and maintained in vitro. Isolated neuronal precursors expressed proenkephalin-derived peptides, as well as specific mu and delta, but negligible kappa, opioid receptors. The developmental effects of opioids were highly selective. Morphine-induced mu receptor activation inhibited DNA synthesis, while a preferential delta2-receptor agonist ([D-Ala2]-deltorphin II) or Met-enkephalin, but not the delta1 agonist [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]-enkephalin, inhibited differentiation within the same neuronal population. If similar patterns occur in the developing cerebellum, spatiotemporal differences in endogenous mu and delta opioid ligand-receptor interactions may coordinate distinct aspects of granule neuron maturation. The data additionally suggest that perinatal exposure to opiate drugs of abuse directly interfere with cerebellar maturation by disrupting normal opioid signalling and inhibiting the proliferation of granule neuron precursors.
Characterization of airborne trace metal and trace organic species from coal gasification

Fugitive emissions from a slagging fixed-bed coal-gasification pilot plant were analyzed by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry for trace metal and trace organic species. Analysis of the size distributions of airborne particulate matter inside the plant showed an abundance of large metal-containing particles; outdoor distributions in the vicinity of the plant resembled the indoor distributions, suggesting the importance of the gasifier in influencing ambient air quality. This conclusion was further supported by identification of similar organic compounds inside and outside the plant. Trace element enrichment factors based on the earth's crustal composition were greater than those based on the composition of the lignite used in the gasifier, showing the importance of characterizing the proper source material when inverstigating chemical fraction during aerosol formation. Enrichments in the present study were much greater than those found in previous sampling during aborted start-up and cleaning procedures, where normal operating temperatures had not yet been reached. Both studies showed evidence of enrichment factors which decreased with increasing particle size. Although much of the airborne mass was associated with large particles having low respirability, the high concentrations of some metals indoors suggests that further assessment of potential occupational exposures is warranted.
Effect of dissimilar mating materials and contact force on fretting fatigue behavior of Ti–6Al–4V☆

Abstract Fretting fatigue behavior of a titanium alloy, Ti–6Al–4V, in contact with two pad materials having quite differing values of hardness and elastic modulus (aluminum alloy 2024 and Inconel 718) using “cylinder-on-flat” configuration was investigated at different applied stress levels and contact forces. Applied contact forces for both pad materials were selected to provide two Hertzian peak pressures of 292 and 441 MPa. Finite element analyses of all tests were also conducted which showed that an increase in contact force resulted in a smaller relative slip amplitude and a larger width of stick zone. These two factors, along with the lower coefficient of friction during fretting, resulted in less fretting damage on the contact surface of specimen subjected to higher contact force relative to that at lower contact force regardless of the hardness difference of mating materials. Also, an increase in hardness resulted in greater fretting damage on the contact surface of specimens only at higher contact force. Further, the fretting fatigue life decreased with an increase of applied contact force at higher applied effective stress, while it increased at lower applied effective stress with both pad materials. These observations suggest that there is complex interaction among hardness difference between mating surfaces, relative slip amplitude, and stress state in the contact region during fretting fatigue of dissimilar materials.
Long‐term care and maintenance of book carts in libraries

Purpose – Book carts are the most basic piece of library equipment. With simple repairs and maintenance, these sturdy pieces of equipment can have an even longer service life. The purpose of this paper is to provide advise on the long‐term care and maintenance of book carts in librariesDesign/methodology/approach – This paper provides a “how‐to” approach to solving common maintenance issues with book carts.Findings – New book carts can be expensive but simple, cost‐effective repairs can greatly increase their service life.Originality/value – Repairing book carts is an easy method of reducing library operating costs.
A variance-ratio test for supporting a variable mean in kriging

This article discusses the issue of whether to use a variable mean and describes a test that can be used to evaluate whether it is justified to add terms to the drift (deterministic part) of a geostatistical model. The basic model could be the intrinsic one, where the deterministic part is a constant, and the alternate model could be any model that includes a constant term in the expression for the drift. Also, differences between constant- and variable-mean models are discussed.
Auger rate in μ-mesic atoms

A study has been made of theK Auger transitions in the light elements of nuclear emulsions. Of 382 stopping μ−-mesons, 1016 were observed to decay. 5 of these had associated short-range electrons whose energies were consistent with theK transitions of CNO. 2 of these 5 are attributed to theK Auger transitions of CNO, while the remaining 3 are attributed to higher Auger transitions in AgBr. These results are to be compared with the calculations of Burbidge and de Borde which predict 1.3K Auger electrons from CNO for this experiment. These experimental results are inconsistent with the assumption that the missingK radiative transitions in the experiment of Stearns and Stearns are due to competing Auger processes, since this would require 294 observedK electrons as compared to the 2 actually observed. The experimental results quoted here are in agreement with an earlier experiment of Fry.
Spurious decline in intraoperative parathyroid hormone: false positives in parathyroid surgery.

Abstract Objectives The aims of this study were to (1) describe a false-positive result using a highly sensitive intraoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) assay in an adult patient with primary hyperparathyroidism and (2) discuss the potential pitfalls of revision parathyroid surgery and the implication of various localization techniques described in the literature. Methods A case report is described from a tertiary care university hospital. A literature review detailing diagnostic tools used to improve outcomes in parathyroid surgery is presented. The potential inaccuracies of intraoperative PTH assays are discussed. Results We present a 71-year-old woman with primary hyperparathyroidism who was referred to our institution for revision surgery. The patient had preoperative sestamibi imaging that localized a right inferior parathyroid lesion. Intraoperatively, a specimen consistent with parathyroid tissue was removed and sent for frozen section. The intraoperative PTH levels were noted to decrease from 154 pg/mL (preincision) to 28 pg/mL (20 minutes postexcision). The frozen section results were consistent with a lymph node. This stimulated a 4-gland exploration, which confirmed normal left superior and inferior parathyroid glands. A 1.5-cm right retroesophageal parathyroid was subsequently discovered and excised. Final intraoperative PTH levels were 20 pg/mL. Conclusion Rapid PTH assays have become the mainstay of parathyroid surgery at many institutions; however, despite their accuracy, false-positive results are known to occur. We present a case of an inaccurate decline in intraoperative PTH and use this case report as a means to highlight some potential pitfalls of the test.
SuperTracker Incorporates Food Composition Data into Innovative Online Consumer Tool

Abstract The SuperTracker online dietary and physical activity assessment tool is a major outreach effort to encourage behavior change and help implement the 2010 Dietary Guidelines. It provides a user-friendly but powerful interface to help individuals enter food intake, compare it to nutrient goals and the USDA Food Patterns, and track intake over time. At its core, the SuperTracker relies on a food database adapted from ARS's Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS) and MyPyramid Equivalents Database (MPED). Modifications and additions increase the database's convenience for users: Food names were simplified and, in some cases, additional names were assigned; portions and portion descriptions were modified; and MPED values were assigned for foods new to FNDDS 2007-08, to assure that these newer foods were included. SuperTracker is multifunctional, allowing for tiered levels of involvement by users, from looking up a single food to comprehensive dietary and physical activity assessment, goal setting, and planning over time. Features include creation of individualized “combos” and favorite foods, to simplify entry of items consumed often. It provides real-time interactive feedback to users, and offers multiple report options to meet varied user needs. The SuperTracker relies on data from FNDDS and MPED to provide accurate feedback, which enables users to take control of their dietary choices. Monitoring food intake can help individuals become more aware of and improve what they eat and drink. The SuperTracker can empower consumers to track their food intake and activity, in order to improve their health.
Long-term Vaginal Sequelae Secondary to Pediatric Pelvic Fracture

Abstract Background Pediatric pelvic fractures often appear radiographically benign despite significant injury to viscera. Vaginal injuries are rare, and therefore require a high index of suspicion. Case A 26-year-old female patient who sustained a pelvic fracture in a motorcycle accident at the age of 10 presented with vaginal stenosis precluding sexual intercourse. Patient menstruated through a fistula in the distal vaginal vault. Radiographic and dye studies showed almost complete vaginal obstruction with heterotopic ossification. An extensive 30-year review of the literature was conducted looking for documented cases of vaginal injuries secondary to pelvic injury. Summary and Conclusion This is the only recorded case of a long-term vaginal complication with subsequent heterotopic ossification secondary to pelvic fracture. Preventing debilitating long-term sequelae from vaginal injuries requires close patient follow-up and age-appropriate assessments.
Over-expression of human sex steroid-binding protein (hSBP/hABP or hSHBG) in insect cells infected with a recombinant baculovirus. Characterization of the recombinant protein and comparison to the plasma protein

Human sex steroid-binding protein (hSBP/hABP or hSHBG) was over-expressed in High Five and Sf9 cells adhered to plates and in suspension. The adherent cells expressed to levels of 2.3 mg/l and 1.4 mg/l after 4 and 6 days, respectively, while Sf9 cells grown in suspension yielded 4.67 mg/l after 6 days. Recombinant hSBP/hABP, purified to homogeneity by immunoadsorption, was found to fold similarly to native plasma hSBP/hABP and to display similar sequence epitopes after heat denaturation. The recombinant protein binds dihydrotestosterone, testosterone, and 17 beta-estradiol with KdS of 0.6, 2.4, and 14.2 nM, respectively, which are similar to plasma hSBP/hABP. The recombinant protein contains N-linked and O-linked oligosaccharide side-chains but the monomer exhibits a slightly lower molecular weight than plasma hSBP/hABP (40 kDa vs 44 kDa) which may be due to the absence of one N-linked side-chain or to shorter oligosaccharide side-chains. The partial N-terminal sequence LRPVLP(T)Q of recombinant hSBP/hABP is identical to plasma hSBP/hABP but appears to be less heterogeneous. These results indicate that recombinant baculovirus SBP represents a good model for investigating the structure of plasma hSBP/hABP. The expression system will allow the isolation of preparative amounts of SBP mutants generated by combinatorial site-directed mutagenesis to advance investigations on structure-function relationships and undertake crystallization trials for X-ray diffraction analyses.
Development and Evaluation of a Mini Core Collection for the U.S. Peanut Germplasm Collection

A core collection (831 accessions) has been developed to represent the U.S. Arachis hypogaea L. germplasm collection. This core collection has been shown to be effective in improving the efficiency of identifying genes of interest in the entire germplasm collection. However, an even smaller subset of germplasm is needed for traits which are difficult and/or expensive to measure. The objectives of this study were to select a core of the core collection and to evaluate the usefulness of this subset of germplasm to identify genes of interest in peanut. Data for eight above ground and eight below ground morphological characteristics were measured for each accession in the core collection. Cluster analysis was used on these data to partition the core accessions into groups which, theoretically, are genetically similar. Random sampling was then used to select a 10% sample from each group. The result was a core of the core collection (mini core) consisting of 112 accessions. Examination of morphological data indicated that the majority of genetic variation expressed in the core collection has been preserved in this core of the core collection. Data on disease resistances for accessions in the core collection were collected and used to determine retrospectively how effective the use of a mini core collection would have been in identifying sources of resistance in the core collection. Results indicated that the mini core collection can be used to improve the efficiency of identifying desirable traits in the core collection. For resistance to late leaf spot (Cercosporidiumpersonatum (Berk. & M. A. Curtis), the use of a mini core collection would have improved the efficiency of identifying resistant accessions in the entire collection. The core of the core approach should be particularly useful for traits which are difficult and/or expensive to measure.
Financial resource flows, macro policy response, and the socio-economic environment: the experience of Latin America and East Asia

Abstract This paper analyzes the compositional changes in financial resource flows to, and the consequent macroeconomic policy response of, the largest recipients in Latin America and East Asia during the last decade. Further, it evaluates the socio-economic impact of these flows on the attained level of empowerment of the broader population in both regions. The analysis suggests that recent financial crises were catalysts for compositional shifts between aid, portfolio, and FDI flows. Further, public policies in both regions were effective in mitigating the most deleterious effects of these flows. Finally, the analysis indicates that both regions were successful in translating these financial inflows into better living standards.
Advancing neurochemical monitoring.

Two new approaches to neurochemical monitoring in vivo—an improved real-time microsensor and genetically engineered cells that sense neurotransmitter levels—address the critical issue of brain reactivity to implanted devices.
Experiences with monoclonal antibody therapy for allergic asthma

Identification of the central role IgE plays in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases made it a key target for therapy. The first selective anti-IgE therapy, a unique humanized monoclonal anti-IgE antibody (omalizumab), binds with high affinity to the Fc(epsilon)RI receptor binding site on IgE, thereby reducing the amount of free IgE available to bind to Fc(epsilon)RI receptors on mast calls, basophils, and other cells. In addition, administration of omalizumab indirectly reduces Fc(epsilon)RI receptor density on cells involved in allergic responses. In two bronchoprovocation trials involving patients with mild allergic asthma, omalizumab attenuated both early- and late-phase allergic responses. Omalizumab was subsequently evaluated as a treatment for asthma in large, multicenter, randomized, double-blind phase II and III trials involving patients with moderate to severe asthma who required corticosteroid therapy. When added to treatment with oral or inhaled corticosteroids, omalizumab reduced symptoms and exacerbations, improved lung function and quality of life, and reduced the need for rescue medications. These benefits persisted even in the "corticosteroid reduction" phase of these trials, when omalizumab treatment was shown to allow patients to reduce or discontinue their inhaled and/or oral corticosteroids. These effects of omalizu-mab in improving asthma control, as well as its excellent safety profile, may ultimately make this agent a useful addition to the physician's armamentarium of treatments for asthma.
Experimental evidence for a low‐lying torsional mode in polymers

Longitudinal and transverse sound velocities have been measured in several samples of polystyrene crosslinked with various weight percentages of divinylbenzene. Specific heats of these same samples have been measured previously. These data obtained calorimetrically, together with similar data obtained by others for some other polymers, can be accounted for by postulating the existence of a fourth mode of vibration with a velocity close to that measured for the two transverse modes. It is suggested that this fourth mode is one arising from the torsional coupling of the side groups along the backbone chain of the polymer molecule.
Pharmacology and flexibility in the rehabilitation of two brain-injured adults.

Two case studies are presented to highlight the principle that the needs of the brain injured in rehabilitation are not necessarily only for 'therapy', and the necessity for flexibility and individual treatments when working with this group.
Cryptanalysis of Hwang-Lo-Hsiao-Chu Authenticated Encryption Schemes

Tseng et al. proposed two efficient authenticated encryption schemes with message linkages for message flows. Hwang et al. (IEICE Trans. Inf. and Syst., Vol. E89-D, No. 4, April 2006) presented a forgery attack against these two schemes and proposed an improvement that they claim resists such attacks. In this paper, we show that the improved authenticated encryption schemes proposed by Hwang et al. are not secure by presenting another message forgery attack against these improved schemes.
One step forward, two steps back: The World Wide Web as aninformation resource

The World Wide Web offers the potential for comprehensive shared access of reliable and valid health information and educational resources; hence a major step towards enriching pharmacy education. However, educators and students must now consider web site information that may change, move, expire and disappear with no record. Also, many web sites lack key indicators of quality such as the source of the material presented, authorship, or how current the information is. In a sense, these issues may be viewed as major “steps backward” toward using web-based information to enrich education. Although no comprehensive, organized strategy exists to ensure high quality and availability of web sites at all times, several initiatives exist to assist viewers in dealing with web site disappearance and evaluating the quality of information presented. Awareness of these issues is necessary for the World Wide Web to be useful as a valid information and educational resource.
Subfornical Organ: Site of Drinking Elicitation by Angiotensin II

Angiotensin II applied directly to the subfornical organ in a dose as small as 0.1 nanogram elicited short-latency drinking behavior in water-sated rats. Lesions in the body of this structure blocked drinking induced by angiotensin II applied to the basal telencephalon (including preoptic area). These results call attention to the subfornical organ as an important central nervous structure involved in the conrol of drinking behavior.
Complex Bileaflet Mitral Valve Repair (Barlow's) Using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System.

Robotic mitral valve repair (RMVR) is less invasive and potentially more precise. However, RMVR lengthens both cardiopulmonary bypass and arrested heart times. In our initial experience, only poste...
An Index of Stored Fine Sediment in Gravel Bedded Streams

: An index of sediments less than 0.3 mm stored in the top layer of small streams was estimated by disturbing a fixed area for 2 minutes and catching the resultant sediment drift in downstream traps. The method was used in 24 small northern California streams and was tested by releasing known amounts and sizes of sediments in controlled trails. Field use showed general agreement with an exponential model of decrease in sediment trapped vs. distance. Sites in distrubed reaches (watersheds logged with no streamside buffers or with buffers less than 30 m) had higher indices of stored sediment than control sites. Estimates from controlled trials averaged 7.5 percent higher than actual losses for composite size classes ≤ 0.3 mm, 19.7 percent higher than actual losses for just the ≤ 0.125 mm class, and 15.2 percent for all 14 trials. The method is relatively simple and suitable for remote locations, particularly in studies comparing many small streams.
Thoughts on the evolution of modern oceans

Explanation of the evolution of the Earth's oceans, particularly the processes involved in the generation of the oceans, are important for understanding the general appearance of our planet, and for the solution of specific problems. A comparative study of the world's oceans shows there is a single genetic series in the evolution of oceans, and that the oceans of the world are at different stages in their evolution. The Arctic Ocean, dated as Cenozoic, is noted for its small size and shallow oceanic floor, extensive but passive continental margins, limited volcanism, significant crustal thickness, and a lack of Benioff zones. The Mesozoic, Indian and Atlantic oceans have much greater dimensions and depths than the Arctic Ocean, the crust is thinner beneath them, volcanism is much more extensive, and active margins, while in the initial phase of evolution, are limited in extent. The area of the most ancient (probably Paleozoic) Pacific Ocean is equal to the sum of the rest of the three oceans; it also has the greatest oceanic depth. Beneath the Pacific, the crust is thinned and is characterized by high permeability, because of which magmatism is particularly widespread. Active continental margins arc also extensive in the Pacific. The concept of evolutionary development of the oceans enables us to predict the comparative potential of oceans with regards to their oil and gas and ore content. RESUME Les explications de l'evolution des oceans de la terre, particulierement les processus impliques dans la formation des oceans, sont importants pour comprendre l'aspect general de notre planete et pour la solution de problemes specifiques. Une etude comparative des oceans du monde montre qu'il y a une suite genetique unique dans l'evolution des oceans, et que les oceans du monde en sont a differents stades dans leur evolution. l'ocean Arctique, datant du cenozoique, est caracterise par sa petite taille et son fond oceanique peu profond, des marges continentales etendues mais passives, une petite quantite de volcanisme, une croute epaisse, et une absence de zones de Benioff. Les oceans Indien et Atlantique, mesozoiques, ont des dimensions et des profondeurs beaucoup plus grandes que celles de l'ocean Arctique, la croute sous-jacente est plus mince; le volcanisme est beaucoup plus repandu, et les marges actives, dans leur phase initiate d'evolution, sont d'etendue limitee. La surface de l'ocean Pacifique, le plus ancien (probablement paleozoique), est egale a la somme des trois autres oceans; il a aussi la plus grande profondeur. Sous le Pacifique, la croute est amincie et caracterisee par une grande permeabilite, en raison de laquelle le magmatisme est particulierement repandu. Les marges continentales actives sont aussi abondantes dans le Pacifique. Le concept de l'evolution des oceans nous permet de predire le potentiel comparatif des oceans en regard de leur contenu en petrole, gaz naturel et minerai. [Traduit par la redaction]
Nondestructive Determination of Arsenic in urine by Epithermal Neutron Activation Analysis and Compton Suppression

Epithermal neutron activation analysis, in conjunction with Compton suppression, has been employed to determine arsenic levels in artificially doped urine samples. Typical detection limits were of the order of 10 ng/g. Replicate determinations gave precision values between 2 and 12%, whereas accuracy measurements were between ± 1 and ±20%. Biological and geological reference materials from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) were also analyzed for arsenic content. Typically, the precision achieved again was between 2 and 12%, whereas the accuracy measurements were in excellent agreement with the certified values.
On the implementation of the GMRES(m) method to elliptic equations in meteorology

In this paper we consider the relatively new preconditioned generalized minimal residual method, restarted every m iterations (GMRES(m) ), for the solution of three-dimensional elliptic equations. Large, sparse, non-symmetric matrices are involved. The particular equation of interest is the quasi -geostrophic “omega” equation, often used in meteorology to compute vertical motion. The GMRES(m) method is tested with different preconditioners for the solution of two- and three-dimensional elliptic equations. The method requires no relaxation parameters and has no restrictions on the size of the 3D grid. GMRES can be used for more types of matrices than other methods such as SOR. Numerical results show that Jacobi preconditioned GMRES(m) performs best for 3D and high resolution problems among five different preconditioners tested, while ILIJ factorization of the partial or whole matrix A, as a preconditioner, is good for 2D and low resolution problems. The SOR preconditioners for the GMRES(m) method, with optimal relaxation parameters, are not as efficient, and the best choice for the relaxation parameter in SOR preconditioning is not the same as the best choice for the simple SOR method. An algorithm for using the preconditioned GMRES(m) method is presented.
Biogenesis of hyoscyamine.

THE biogenetic origin of the tropane bases has recently been the subject of some discussion1,2, Mortimer1 suggesting that the tropane skeleton may be derived from the breakdown products of tryptophan metabolism. This novel idea is contrary to the accepted hypothesis that a base such as tropine is produced in vivo by reactions analogous to the in vitro synthesis3 of tropinone from succindialdehyde, methylamine and acetone. The succindialdehyde is considered to be a metabolite of ornithine, and James4 showed that significant increases in the amount of hyoscyamine in Atropa belladonna occurred following the feeding of arginine or ornithine.
KNIGHT SHIFT IN CADMIUM: FIELD AND TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE.

Measurements have been performed of the Knight shift in cadmium as a function of field between 1 and 20 kG at 1.2 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and as a function of temperature between 1.2 and 300 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K at 9.4kG. The field-dependent studies show an oscillatory behavior of the Knight shift at the de Haas-van Alphen frequency appropriate to the first band in the higher-field ranges. In the low-field region the average value of the Knight shift is found to exhibit a strong anisotropic field dependence. The temperature-dependent measurements show that the anisotropy in the Knight shift reverses sign between 1.2 and 300 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Measurements of the amplitude of the de Haas-van Alphen signals were performed in the same field range and orientation as the oscillatory Knight-shift measurements. All of the measurements reported are accounted for by the detailed field and temperature dependence of the topology of the cadmium Fermi surface.
Improved turf quality of transgenic bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge) constitutively expressing the ATHB16 gene, a repressor of cell expansion

Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge) is a popular low-input turfgrass in subtropical regions. However, its turf quality and widespread use as residential turf is limited by up to 60-cm-tall seedheads and its open, sparse-looking growth habit. Plant growth retardants (PGRs) are being used in bahiagrass for the suppression of seedheads and leaf growth since a dwarf bahiagrass cultivar is not available and mowing costs are increasing. However, PGRs have to be applied frequently and may result in phytotoxicity. The improvement of turf quality by genetic engineering represents a promising alternative to the application of PGRs. The data presented here indicate that over-expression of the Arabidopsis ATHB16 transcription factor in bahiagrass significantly changes plant architecture of this important low-input turfgrass. All transgenic plants investigated produced significantly more vegetative and fewer reproductive tillers, shorter leaves and shorter tillers. Over-expression of ATHB16 resulted in a proportional reduction of leaf width and leaf length. The formation of seedheads under natural photoperiod was delayed in some transgenic lines for approximately 4 weeks. Total root or shoot biomass and seed set were not compromised in semi-dwarf bahiagrass plants over-expressing ATHB16. Our findings are consistent with the proposed function of ATHB16 as a suppressor of cell expansion and demonstrate its conserved role in grasses with direct practical implications for enhancing turf quality.
Marital status and optimism score among breast cancer survivors

Purpose There are an increasing number of breast cancer survivors, but their psychosocial and supportive care needs are not well-understood. Recent work has found marital status, social support, and optimism to be associated with quality of life, but little research has been conducted to understand how these factors relate to one another.
Complete structure, genomic organization, and expression of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus, Rafinesque 1818) matrix metalloproteinase-9 gene.

In this study, the channel catfish (CC) matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) gene was cloned, sequenced, and characterized at both the cDNA and the genomic DNA levels. The complete sequence of the CC MMP-9 cDNA consisted of 2,551 nucleotides, including one open reading frame and 5′- and 3′-end untranslated regions. The open reading frame potentially encoded a 686-amino-acid peptide with a calculated molecular mass (without glycosylation) of approximately 77.4 kDa, which included a signal peptide and potentially heavy O-glycosylation sites. CC MMP-9 did not have the tripeptide Arg-Gly-Asp motif. The degree of conservation of the CC MMP-9 amino acid sequence to human and mouse counterparts was 55%, while to those of other fish species was 67–74%. The full-length CC MMP-9 genomic DNA comprised 5,663 nucleotides, much shorter than human or mouse counterparts. The exon-intron structure followed the splice acceptor/donor consensus rule, and the sequence contained 13 exons. The MMP-9 transcript was constitutively ...
Prostaglandins and renin release: I. Stimulation of renin release from rabbit renal cortical slices by PGI2.

Abstract Prostaglandins have been shown to be involved in the mechanism of renin secretion in a variety of situations. Both arachidonic acid and prostaglandin endoperoxide have been shown to release renin from cortical slices and to be converted to PGI2 by cortical microsomes. In the present studies PGI2 was found to cause a time dependent increase in renin release from rabbit renal cortical slices, a system isolated from any indirect effects that result from the administration of prostaglandins in vivo . The stimulation was linear up to 30 minutes and effective over a range of concentrations from 10−7 M to 10−5 M. At similar concentrations 6-keto-prostaglandin F1α was not active on these slices. Thus, it is proposed that PGI2 exerts a direct effect on the release of renin from cortical cells and may be the mediator of arachidonate or prostaglandin endoperoxide stimulated renin secretion.