cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spinal regions involved in baroreflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity in the rat

Spinal cord injury causes debilitating cardiovascular disturbances. The etiology of these disturbances remains obscure, partly because the locations of spinal cord pathways important for sympathetic control of cardiovascular function have not been thoroughly studied. To elucidate these pathways, we examined regions of the thoracic spinal cord important for reflex sympathetic control of arterial pressure (AP). In anesthetized rats, baroreceptor relationships between pharmacologically induced changes in AP and changes in left renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) were generated in spinally intact rats and after acute surgical hemisection of either the dorsal, left, or right T8 spinal cord. None of these individual spinal lesions prevented the baroreceptor-mediated increases in RSNA caused by decreases in AP. Thus, baroreceptor-mediated increases in RSNA in rats are mediated by relatively diffuse, bilateral, descending, excitatory projections. The ability to reduce RSNA at increased AP was impaired after both dorsal and left hemisections, and baroreceptor gain was significantly decreased. Baroreceptor-induced maximum decreases in RSNA were not affected by right hemisections. However, baroreflex gain was impaired. Because both dorsal and left hemisections, but not right hemisections, attenuated the decrease in RSNA at elevated AP, we conclude that pathways involved in the tonic inhibition of spinal sources of sympathetic activity descend ipsilaterally in the dorsal spinal cord. Our results show that many lesions that do not fully transect the spinal cord spare portions of both descending excitatory pathways that may prevent orthostatic hypotension and descending inhibitory pathways that reduce the incidence of autonomic dysreflexia.
Ellipsometry of mass-transport boundary layers

Abstract The effect of mass-transport boundary layers, that are often associated with surface reactions proceeding at high rates, on ellipsometer measurements of the underlying surface has been investigated for typical transport conditions in liquids. The effect can be of significant extent and depends primarily on concentration difference across the boundary layer, angle of incidence and optical constants of the surface. A simplified method for predicting boundary-layer effects based on light refraction is introduced. Computations are in good agreement with experiments.
Diagnostic expert system for the B1B

A description is given of CEPS (CITS Expert Parameter System), one of the first large-scale applications of an expert system to upgrade a major weapon system, the B-1B strategic aircraft. CEPS is a ground-based system that augments the onboard CITS (central integrated test system) as a maintenance aid for both organizational and intermediate level technicians. Phase I of CEPS successfully demonstrated the utilization of expert system techniques for the isolation of fault ambiguities, and analysis and reduction of retest okays. Phase II consists of implementation of a prototype, including a five month period of usage by personnel at Dyess Air Force Base. Phase III will be the actual implementation of CEPS at all B-1B main operating bases. >
Insulin resistance and the effects of thiazolidinediones on cardiac metabolism

A high rate of myocardial metabolism is needed to generate energy to sustain cardiac contractile activity. Typically, energy generation occurs through the metabolism of free fatty acids (FFAs), glucose, and lactate. However, in individuals who are insulin resistant or who have diabetes mellitus, excessive FFA metabolism occurs in the heart. Pharmacologic manipulation of myocardial metabolism may be beneficial in these patients. There is evidence that the thiazolidinediones (TZDs), aside from exerting insulin-sensitizing effects on fat and skeletal muscles, also act on the myocardium as a result of reducing circulating fatty acid concentrations. Animal studies have shown that the TZDs influence the expression and function of glucose transporters in the heart, leading to improved glucose metabolism. Recent experiments have also shown that administration of TZDs may protect against myocardial injury associated with ischemia and may improve recovery of function during the postischemic period.This article provides a review of the potential beneficial effects of the TZDs on myocardial metabolism.
Drones, More Wearables, and New Things to See and Feel

This installment of Notes from the Community covers wearables, drones, mapping technology, holographic displays, and haptics.
How will we know patients are safer? An organization-wide approach to measuring and improving safety.

Objective:Our institution, like many, is struggling to develop measures that answer the question, How do we know we are safer? Our objectives are to present a framework to evaluate performance in patient safety and describe how we applied this model in intensive care units.Design:We focus on measure
Search for Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with higher lipid content

The search for a barley with a higher lipid content was concentrated on the USDA Barley World Conllection. Seeds of 14,000 entries were examined visually for an embryo size: total seed size ratio greater than the cultivated barley variety Prilar, and 60 entries were selected. Seeds of the 60 entries were assayed for lipid content by NMR spectroscopy, and the 7 entries with the highest oil content, along with Prilar, were prepared for further analysis. Barley lipids were solvent extracted, classified by silicic acid column chromatography, and separated by thin layer chromatography, and the fatty acid composition was determined by gas liquid chromatography. Total lipid contents of the 8 barleys ranged from 3.4% for Prilar to 4.6% for CI 12116. The seven selections had lipid contents which ranged from 9–35% higher than Prilar. Only slight qualitative differences were noted among the lipid classes of the eight barleys analyzed.
HAZARDS OF MANNITOL

To the Editor: —Recently in the pages of theArchives, two groups of authors have recorded their observations of intravenously administered mannitol in the acute reduction of intraocular pressure (D. I. Weiss, et al,Arch Ophthal68: 341-347, 1962; E. W. Smith, et al,Arch Ophthal68:734-737, 1962). Favorable results were reported. Appropriately enough, both sets of authors referred to the potential hazards attending the use of mannitol. It is of extreme significance, in fact, that after high doses of this drug, congestive heart failure can occur in fulminating fashion, due to rapid expansion of the intravascular and extracellular fluid spaces. This is especially true in patients with borderline cardiac and renal reserve. It should further be observed that mannitol promotes an obligatory water and salt diuresis, as well as a significant urinary potassium loss, all factors of considerable importance in digitalized patients and in those with abnormal water and
Comparison of the chemical variation in a flanged australite with the chemical variation among normal Australasian microtektites

Abstract A single flanged australite was found by electron microprobe analysis to have a wide range in chemistry. The silica content varies from 60 to 85%. The Al, Fe, Mg, Ca, Na, Ti, Mn and Ba contents vary inversely, and K and P vary directly with the silica content. The chemical variations and trends for the australite are similar to those found among the Australian Basin deep-sea microtektites.
Modulation of defense-response gene expression in wheat during Hessian fly larval feeding

Abstract Expression profiles of ten genes commonly up-regulated during plant defense against microbial pathogens were compared temporally during compatible and incompatible interactions with first-instar Hessian fly larvae, in two wheat lines carrying different resistance genes. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that while a lipoxygenase gene (WCI-2) was strongly up-regulated during the incompatible interactions, genes encoding β-1,3 endoglucanase (GNS) and an integral membrane protein (WIR1) were moderately responsive. Genes for thionin-like protein (WCI-3), PR-17-like protein (WCI-5), MAP kinase (WCK-1), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), pathogenesis-related protein-1 (PR-1), receptor-like kinase (LRK10) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were minimally responsive. The application of signaling molecules, salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MJ) and abscisic acid (ABA), to insect-free plants demonstrated association of these genes with specific defense-response pathways. SA-induced up-regulation of a...
Fearless Vampire Kissers: Bloodsuckers We Love in Twilight, True Blood and Others

The figure of the vampire has been an important element of popular culture for more than a century. The movies have been a home for vampire stories, and they have presented them as unusually frightening images. A recent explosion of vampire screen works reveals a new emphasis on addressing female issues as opposed to male issues and focusing on the erotic attraction of the vampire rather than the fear. As a fictional, but very obvious, example of an alien group in our midst, vampires are like many sub-groups. The change from fear to arousal may augur a change in sentiment that allows us to be more welcoming of outsiders.
Carotid dissection: technical factors affecting endovascular therapy.

Introduction et Objectif: Les auteurs revoient le traitement de 13 cas de dissection de la carotide extracrânienne afin d'identifier les facteurs associes au succes du traitement endovasculaire. Methodes: Les dossiers de 12 patients presentant 13 dissections ont ete revises quant au mecanisme de la dissection, aux symptomes preoperatoires, a la presence d'un pseudoanevrisme, au succes du traitement et a l'etiologie de l'echec du traitement. Les patients, six hommes et six femmes âges de 27 a 62 ans, ont ete suivis prospectivement. Resultats: L'angioplastie et la pose de protheses endovasculaires ont ete effectues avec succes lors de 11 des 13 interventions (10 patients sur 12). Le suivi de ces 10 patients a montre une excellente permeabilite au niveau de la prothese endovasculaire chez neuf des 11 vaisseaux traites. Deux patients, qui avaient tous deux presente une dissection suite a une endarterectomie, ont necessite une nouvelle angioplastie et la mise en place d'une prothese endovasculaire pour une stenose hors de la zone traitee anterieurement. En ce qui concerne les echecs, l'appareil de deploiement d'une prothese endovasculaire n'a pas pu etre guide a travers une bouche d'une artere tortueuse dans un cas, alors qu'un microguide n'a pas pu etre insere au-dela d'un pseudoanevrisme dans le second. Six patients etaient porteurs de pseudoanevrismes, dont quatre ont ete traites seulement par la mise en place d'une prothese endovasculaire au niveau du segment arteriel disseque. Le traitement a ete un succes dans tous ces cas et aucune complication permanente resultant du traitement endovasculaire n'est survenue. Conclusions: On peut traiter avec securite la dissection de la carotide par angioplastie et pose d'une prothese endovasculaire. La presence d'un pseudoanevrisme ou d'une artere tortueuse peut entraver le traitement, bien qu'un pseudoanevrisme puisse se resorber avec l'angioplastie et la pose dune prothese endovasculaire lorsque c'est possible. Les dissections secondaires a une endarterectomie peuvent etre associees a un taux de restenose plus eleve apres la pose d'une prothese endovasculaire et peuvent necessiter une autre intervention.
The EAT and EDI: Screening, interrelationships, and psychometrics

This study examined the Screening utility, scale interrelationships, and psycometric properties of the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) and the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI). 12% and 8% of female college freshman (N =268) were identified as weight preccupied according to the EAT and EDI, respectively. Cross-classification analyses indicated 90% agreement between the total EAT score and the EDI Drive for Thinness subscale. Both instruments demonstrated acceptable levels of internal consistency and scale intercorrelations. The principal component analysis provided moderate support for the factorial integrity, and thus scoring, of the EDI. The screening potential and multidimensional nature of the EDI are discussed.
The metabolism of l-[3-3h]lactate by isolated hamster liver cells.

Abstract The rate of tritium removal from l [3-3H]lactate by hamster liver cells is faster than the analytical rate of lactate utilization, or the rate of 14C disappearance from l [U-14C]lactate, with the result that the 3H/14C ratio in residual lactate from l -[U-14C,3-3H]lactate decreases. However, addition of low concentrations (0.1 to 1.0 mM) of l -cycloserine, a glutamate pyruvate transaminase inhibitor, nearly equalizes the rates of isotope utilization from l -[3-3H]lactate and l -[U-14C]lactate. The results suggest a very limited rate of recycling of phosphoenolpyruvate back to pyruvate during gluconeogenesis from lactate in fasted hamster liver cells.
Nocturnal hemodynamic patterns in dogs

Abstract Several species which have a single daily wake-sleep cycle show a progressive fall in cardiac output and rise in total peripheral resistance during sleep, a cardiovascular response which may reflect a progressive decrease in plasma volume. The present study showed that no such progressive overnight changes in cardiac output or total peripheral resistance occur in the dog, a carnivore which tends to be awake and to drink intermittently during the night. Progressive overnight bradycardia (−12.7±3.1%) and compensatory increase in stroke volume (14.8±6.0%) were observed in this species, however. These findings are consistent with the view that differences between primates and carnivores in overnight hemodynamic function are related to species differences in sleep and ingestive behavior.
The discourse, practice, and expansion of Chinese scientific socialism: Geopolitical implications for Latin America and the United States

Chinese scientific socialism (CSS) is analyzed as a state of purpose rather than one of ambiguity. Distinct historical contexts and associated semantic shifts are integrated to contemporarily situate CSS, particularly regarding foreign policy and practice in Latin America. Findings indicate Western media and specialists generally analyze Chinese economic dynamics along a continuum of capitalism, failing to capture relevant forms of geopolitical socialist-communist expression and their local-to-global impacts. CSS rhetoric and practice reflect principles of unity and reciprocity, are long term, and enjoy trust in Latin America. Thus, the Chinese development model derives and generates benefits comparatively greater than the traditional capitalist model and impacts US hegemony. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The systemic arterial pattern of the guinea pig: the abdomen

The systemic arterial pattern of the guinea pig was studied to determine the arrangement of the major arterial trunks and their branches. Fiftynine specimens were examined by dissection, angiography or corrosion casting. The arterial arrangement was found to resemble a typical mammalian pattern, although some exceptions were noted. For example, the guinea pig usually has a single vessel, the celiacomesenteric trunk, instead of separate celiac and cranial mesenteric arteries. The celiac components of this vascular axis were found to originate in four different patterns. Also, the renal arteries were found to be single or double on either side with double origins more frequent.
Sensitivity of Trajectory Prediction in Air Traffic Management

Trajectory prediction in air trafe c management computes the most likely or the most desirable aircraft trajectories by using models of aircraft performance and atmospheric conditions, as well as measurements of aircraft states. In comparison, actual trajectories are obtained using feedback control from a pilot or autopilot to track e ight objectives, while theaircrafte iesthrough an actual atmosphere. This paperintroduces the concept ofclosedloop sensitivities, which are dee ned as differences between actual and computed trajectories per unit of modeling errors, in thepresenceof pilot/autopilotfeedback controls.Modeling errorsareexpressed asuncertain parameters and/or uncertain functions. Pilot/autopilot control actions are approximated by nonlinear feedback control laws, designedwith themethod of feedback linearization. Both theaircraft equations of motion and the feedbackcontrol laws are linearized around computed reference trajectories, and these linearized equations are used to determine expressions for closed-loop terminal sensitivities. The proposed method is applied to the Center/Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) Automation System as well as e ight management systems.
A method for the construction and use of contact occluders for small animals

Abstract A method is described for constructing contact lenses for laboratory animals. Occluding, diffusing and clear lenses can be readily produced. Lenses slightly larger than the corneal surface remain in place through experimental handling and are easily retrieved. The method can be used for repeated production of lenses from a single mold.
PESNPdb: A comprehensive database of SNPs studied in association with pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy specific disorder that can be life threatening for mother and child. Multiple studies have been carried out in an attempt to identify SNPs that contribute to the genetic susceptibility of the disease. Here we describe PESNPdb (http://bejerano.stanford.edu/pesnpdb), a database aimed at centralizing SNP and study details investigated in association with pre-eclampsia. We also describe a Placenta Disorders ontology that utilizes information from PESNPdb. The main focus of PESNPdb is to help researchers study the genetic complexity of pre-eclampsia through a user-friendly interface that encourages community participation.
SEX-SPECIFIC RESPONSES OF NORTH AMERICAN ELK TO HABITAT MANIPULATION

Female and male cervids often use different habitats, and patterns of habitat selection and space use by the sexes may be influenced in part by selection of different forage resources. We tested the hypothesis that female and male ruminants select habitats that differ with respect to quality and abundance of forage by evaluating sex-specific responses of North American elk (Cervus elaphus) to an experimental fuels-reduction program at the Starkey Experimental Forest and Range (Starkey) in northeastern Oregon. From 2001 to 2003, 26 stands of true fir (Abies) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) were mechanically thinned and burned, whereas 27 similar stands were left untreated to serve as controls. We used measured differences in forage quality and quantity to predict sex-specific responses to this habitat manipulation. We compared seasonal patterns of habitat selection between the sexes using locations from 48 female and 14 male elk collected during daily periods of peak foraging activity during spring and summer of 2005 and 2006. During spring, females selected 4-year-old burns and used 2- and 3-year-old burns in proportion to their availability, whereas males avoided all fire-treated stands. In addition, control stands were avoided by females but selected by males during spring. During summer, control stands were selected and treatment stands either were avoided or used in proportion to their availability by the sexes. Use of treated stands by female and male elk was influenced by different environmental variables across seasons, but mean overlap of utilization distributions between the sexes was higher in summer than spring. These results indicate that although fuels-reduction treatments at Starkey may have increased foraging opportunities for female elk in spring, those treatments likely were of little benefit to male elk.
Prevention of demoralization in prolonged bicultural conflict and interaction: The role of cultural receptors II – Genesis of hybridization

Background:The objective of this article is to show that bicultural hybridization for the prevention of demoralization is anchored on the discovery of certain thematic areas (cultural receptors) in which social roles or cultural mandates are missing, unclear, ambiguous or congruent.Material:The specific setting is the history of Goa, a former Portuguese territory on the western coast of India. Both published and unpublished sources of information were studied.Discussion:Education, occupation and income, the three dimensions of social class, were less dominant than other aspects of the Hindu caste system, such as birth into a group viewed as a caste, observance of marriage circles, regulations of kinship and inheritance, and identification with a location. These other aspects were preserved as much as possible. The result was the conversion of the caste system into a system more akin to social class. Other examples of cultural receptors were found.Conclusions:A key step in the adaptation to acculturative s...
Increased natural killer cell cytotoxicity and NKp30 expression protects against hepatitis C virus infection in high‐risk individuals and inhibits replication in vitro

CD56pos natural killer (NK)/natural T (NT) cells are important innate effectors providing the first line of defense against viral infection. Enhanced NK activity has been shown to protect from human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection. However, the role played by these innate effectors in protection against or development of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is unknown. We characterized CD56pos populations in 11 injection drug users (IDUs) who remained uninfected despite being repeatedly exposed to HCV. NK profiles in exposed but uninfected (EU) individuals were compared with preinfection samples (median 90 days prior to HCV seroconversion) collected from 14 IDUs who were exposed and subsequently became infected (EI) and unexposed normal control subjects (n = 8). Flow cytometric analysis of CD56pos populations demonstrated that EUs had a higher proportion of CD56low mature (P = 0.0011) NK cells compared with EI subjects. Bead-isolated NKs (>90% purity) from EUs had significantly higher interleukin-2 (IL-2)–induced cytolytic activity against the NK-sensitive cell line K562 at an effector-to-target ratio of 10:1 (P < 0.0001). NKp30, a natural cytotoxicity receptor involved in NK activation, is highest on NK/NT cells in EUs relative to infected subjects. Using the JFH-1 infection system, we demonstrated that NKp30high cells in the absence of exogenous stimulation significantly reduce infection of hepatocytes. Conclusion: CD56pos populations in EUs are enriched for effector NKs displaying enhanced IL-2–induced cytolytic activity and higher levels of the natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp30-activating receptor. In addition, NKp30high cells are more effective in preventing infection of Huh-7.5 cells than their NKp30low/neg counterparts. These data support the hypothesis that NK cells contribute to anti-HCV defense in vivo in the earliest stages of infection, providing innate protection from HCV acquisition. (HEPATOLOGY 2010)
Old and new MMPI-derived scales and the short-MAST as screening tools for alcohol disorder.

Ten previously published and two new MMPI-derived scales were compared with the short-form of the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (SMAST-13) in terms of sensitivity and specificity at detecting alcohol disorder in a study of 100 alcohol out-patients, 100 mental health out-patients, and 100 college students. The SMAST-13 and the new MMPI-derived alcoholism scales performed best at detecting alcohol disorder on multiple criteria including the standard contingency table, relative efficiency, and receiver operator characteristic analyses. These conclusions. were found to be robust in separate analyses for males and females.
Fast and practical instruction-set randomization for commodity systems

Instruction-set randomization (ISR) is a technique based on randomizing the "language" understood by a system to protect it from code-injection attacks. Such attacks were used by many computer worms in the past, but still pose a threat as it was confirmed by the recent Conficker worm outbreak, and the latest exploits targeting some of Adobe's most popular products. This paper presents a fast and practical implementation of ISR that can be applied on currently deployed software. Our solution builds on a binary instrumentation tool to provide an ISR-enabled execution environment entirely in software. Applications are randomized using a simple XOR function and a 16-bit key that is randomly generated every time an application is launched. Shared libraries can be also randomized using separate keys, and their randomized versions can be used by all applications running under ISR. Moreover, we introduce a key management system to keep track of the keys used in the system. To the best of our knowledge we are the first to apply ISR on truly shared libraries.Finally, we evaluate our implementation using real applications including the Apache web server, and the MySQL database server. For the first, we show that our implementation has negligible overhead (less than 1%) for static HTML loads, while the overhead when running MySQL can be as low as 75%. We see that our system can be used with little cost with I/O intensive network applications, while it can also be a good candidate for deployment with CPU intensive applications, in scenarios where security outweighs performance.
Inclusive taxon sampling suggests a single, stepwise origin of ectolecithality in Platyhelminthes

Ectolecithality is a form of oogenesis unique within Metazoa but common in Platyhelminthes, in which almost yolkless oocytes and tightly associated yolk cells are deposited together in egg capsules. Despite profound impacts on the embryogenesis and morphology of its beneficiaries, the origins of this developmental phenomenon remain obscure. Traditionally, all ectolecithal flatworms were grouped in a clade called Neoophora. However, there are also morphological arguments for multiple origins of ectolecithality and, to date, Neoophora has seen little support from molecular phylogenetic research, largely as a result of gaps in taxon sampling. Accordingly, we present a molecular phylogeny focused on resolving the deepest divergences among the free-living Platyhelminthes. Species were chosen to completely span the diversity of all major endo- and ectolecithal clades, including several aberrant species of uncertain systematic affinity and, additionally, a thorough sampling of the ‘lecithoepitheliate’ higher taxa Prorhynchida and Gnosonesimida, respectively, under- and unrepresented in phylogenies to date. Our analyses validate the monophyly of all classical higher platyhelminth taxa, and also resolve a clade possessing distinct yolk-cell and oocyte generating organs (which we name Euneoophora new taxon). Furthermore, implied-weights parsimony and Bayesian mixture model analyses suggest common ancestry of this clade with the lecithoepitheliates, implying that these taxa may retain a primitive form of ectolecithality. This topology thus corroborates the classical hypothesis of homology between yolk cells and oocytes in all Neoophora, and should serve to guide future evolutionary research on this unique developmental innovation in Platyhelminthes. © 2014 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2014, 111, 570–588.
Temperature/light sensing using carbon fiber polymer-matrix composite

Abstract A polymer (epoxy)-matrix composite with the top two laminae of continuous carbon fibers in a crossply configuration was found to be a temperature sensor. Each junction between crossply fiber tow groups of adjacent laminae is a sensor, while the fiber groups serve as electrical leads. A junction array provided by two crossply laminae allows sensing of the temperature/light distribution. The contact electrical resistivity of the junction decreases reversibly upon heating (whether using light or hot plate to heat), due to the activation energy involved in the jump of electrons across the junction. The contact resistivity decreases with increasing pressure during composite fabrication, due to the increase in pressure exerted by fibers of one lamina on those of the other lamina. The absolute value of the fractional change in contact resistivity per degree C increases with increasing pressure during composite fabrication, due to decrease in composite thickness, increase in fiber volume fraction and consequent increases in interlaminar stress and activation energy. A junction between unidirectional fiber tow groups of adjacent laminae is much less effective for temperature/light sensing, due to the absence of interlaminar stress.
Disruption of epithelial cell-matrix interactions induces apoptosis

Cell-matrix interactions have major effects upon phenotypic features such as gene regulation, cytoskeletal structure, differentiation, and aspects of cell growth control. Programmed cell death (apoptosis) is crucial for maintaining appropriate cell number and tissue organization. It was therefore of interest to determine whether cell-matrix interactions affect apoptosis. The present report demonstrates that apoptosis was induced by disruption of the interactions between normal epithelial cells and extracellular matrix. We have termed this phenomenon "anoikis." Overexpression of bcl-2 protected cells against anoikis. Cellular sensitivity to anoikis was apparently regulated: (a) anoikis did not occur in normal fibroblasts; (b) it was abrogated in epithelial cells by transformation with v-Ha-ras, v-src, or treatment with phorbol ester; (c) sensitivity to anoikis was conferred upon HT1080 cells or v-Ha-ras-transformed MDCK cells by reverse-transformation with adenovirus E1a; (d) anoikis in MDCK cells was alleviated by the motility factor, scatter factor. The results suggest that the circumvention of anoikis accompanies the acquisition of anchorage independence or cell motility.
Input-output relation in a flexor reflex.

Observations have been made upon a typical flexor reflex with the aim of disclosing the changes in amount, latency, and temporal configuration of reflex discharge that take place as afferent input is varied from zero to maximal for the band of cutaneous myelinated afferent fibers that extends upward from approximately 6 µ in diameter (group II fibers). Reflex threshold is reached at 6 to 12 per cent maximal afferent input. From threshold to maximal input the relation between input and amount of output is essentially linear, latency on the average decreases, the shorter central paths in general gain preference, but the known minimum pathway, one of three neurons, does not transmit unless aided by convergent activity. Flexor reflex discharge may occur in several bursts suggesting the existence of closed chain connections in the internuncial pools of the spinal cord. At any given input there is, in successively elicited reflexes, little correlation between latency and amount of discharge, at first sight a surprising result for each variable can be taken as a measure of excitability status of the motoneuron population. However, latency of discharge indicates excitability at the beginning of the reflex event whereas amount of discharge is an expression of excitability over the entire period of discharge. Given a constantly and rapidly fluctuating excitability absence of correlation between these variables would be an anticipated result.
The kinetics of competitive antagonism of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at physiological temperature.

Detailed information about the ligand-binding site of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors has emerged from structural and mutagenesis experiments. However, these approaches provide only static images of ligand–receptor interactions. Kinetic measurements of changes in protein function are needed to develop a more dynamic picture. Previously, we measured association and dissociation rate constants for competitive inhibition of current through embryonic muscle acetylcholine receptor channels at 25°C. Little is known about competitive antagonism at physiological temperatures. Here, we performed measurements at 37°C and used thermodynamics to estimate the energetics of antagonism. We used rapid solution exchange protocols to determine equilibrium and kinetics of inhibition of acetylcholine-activated currents in outside-out patches by (+)-tubocurarine, pancuronium and cisatracurium. Kinetic rates as high as 600 s−1 were resolved by this technique. Binding was primarily enthalpy driven. The 12°C increase in temperature decreased equilibrium antagonist binding by 1.7- to 1.9-fold. In contrast, association and dissociation rate constants increased 1.9- to 6.0-fold. Activation energies for dissociation were 90 ± 6, 106 ± 8 and 116 ± 10 kJ mol−1 for cisatracurium, (+)-tubocurarine and pancuronium, respectively. The corresponding apparent activation energies for association were 38 ± 6, 85 ± 6 and 107 ± 13 kJ mol−1. The higher activation energy for association of (+)-tubocurarine and pancuronium compared with cisatracurium is notable. This may arise from either a more superficial binding site for the large antagonist cisatracurium compared to the other ligands, or from a change in receptor conformation upon binding of (+)-tubocurarine and pancuronium but not cisatracurium. Differences in ligand desolvation and ligand conformation are not likely to be important.
Proximal and Distal Defense A New Perspective on Unconscious Motivation

Death-related thoughts produce different effects on thought and behavior when they are in current focal attention and when they are on the fringes of consciousness. When such thoughts are conscious, people attempt to either remove them from consciousness or push death into the distant future by distorting their beliefs to logically imply that they have many remaining years to live. When such thoughts are highly accessible but outside current focal attention, people increase efforts to view themselves as persons of value living in a meaningful universe. In this way, awareness of the inevitability of death produces diverse effects on human thought and behavior that bear little obvious resemblance to the problem of death.
False Memories in Women with Self-Reported Childhood Sexual Abuse: An Empirical Study

Although controversy exists about the validity of memories of childhood abuse, little is known about memory function in individuals reporting childhood abuse. This study assessed memories for previously presented words, including the capacity for false memory of critical lures not actually present in the word list, in 63 subjects, including abused women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), abused women without PTSD, and men and women without abuse or PTSD. Abused women with PTSD had a higher frequency of false recognition memory of critical lures (95%) than abused women without PTSD (78%), nonabused women without PTSD (79%), or nonabused men without PTSD (86%). PTSD women also showed poorer memory for studied words and increased insertions of non-studied words other than critical lures. These findings are consistent with a broad range of memory alterations in abused women with PTSD.
Genetic Approaches to the Study of Dispersal and Kinship in New World Primates

Among social animals such as primates, “kinship” or genetic relatedness is commonly invoked as a key factor underlying and organizing the expression of within-group social behavior (Alexander 1974; Wilson 1975; Gouzoules 1984; Bernstein 1991; Silk 2001, 2002). Indeed, kin-correlated behavior – particularly kin-directed beneficent behavior or “nepotism” – is often considered a hallmark feature of the social lives of group-living primates (Gouzoules 1984; Gouzoules and Gouzoules 1987). Within primate social groups, the patterns of genetic relatedness among group members are influenced principally by the dispersal and mating behaviors of those individuals. Dispersal directly shuffles genes across the physical and social landscapes, reassorting how the genetic variation present in a population is partitioned geographically and both within and among the various demographic units (e.g., social groups) into which the population is divided. Individuals’ social and reproductive behaviors (e.g., mating frequency, choice of partners) likewise can influence the structuring of genetic variation within and among social groups across time. For example, high reproductive skew among males within a social group can lead to cohorts of similarly aged individuals being more closely related to one other through common paternity than are animals of different ages. Similarly, extra-group mating by either males or females can act to reduce the extent of genetic differentiation between groups. These two key behavioral factors influencing the kinship structure of primate groups – the dispersal and reproductive tactics of individual animals – are some of the most intractable features of primate social systems for researchers to study in the field. For long-lived species such as primates, dispersal events tend to be rare – i.e., individual animals typically disperse only once or a small number of times during their lives. Even in the most detailed, long-term field studies, it is often difficult
Winter observations of a group of female and immature sperm whales in the high-latitude waters near the Aleutian Islands, Alaska

Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) have one of the most extensive global distributions of any cetacean, but distribution and movement patterns vary significantly between sexes. Adult male sperm whales are predominantly solitary and have an expansive distribution, whereas females and their offspring typically form groups of both sexes, remaining in the tropics and sub-tropics throughout the year. Here we present observations and photographs from a rare winter sighting of a group of female and immature sperm whales near Koniuji Island, in the Central Aleutians, in the high-latitude waters of the Bering Sea. This sighting is consistent with historic whaling catches of sperm whales of both sexes, including pregnant females, above 50°N in the North Pacific, but no groups of females and immatures have been observed in ten years of summer sighting surveys in the Aleutian Islands and Bering Sea region, despite regular sightings of adult males. We discuss possible reasons for the absence of recent sightings of these mixed schools.
Sexual Abuse in South Asian Immigrant Marriages

This article focuses on a discussion of some of the norms around sexuality and their implications for sexual abuse of South Asian immigrant women. Based on the narratives of abused South Asian immigrant women, it explains how women define and understand their own experiences of sexual abuse. The article examines three forms of sexual abuse: (a) marital rape and sexual assault, (b) sexual control through manipulation of reproductive rights, and (c) sexual control through the construction of the “sexual other.” Sexual abuse by significant others besides the husband in the immigrant context is also briefly discussed.
Secure Optical Transmission in a Point-to-Point Link With Encrypted CDMA Codes

We propose to utilize encrypted wireless CDMA codes in optical communications to built a secure point-to-point link. The CDMA codes are encrypted by advanced encryption standard (AES) before encoding data. Digital signal processing techniques are utilized for encrypted signal generation and reception without substantial hardware cost. Our experiment successfully transmits data at 1.56 Gb/s with a bit-error rate below forward error correction limit. Our analysis indicates that the system can be robust against various types of attack models.
A C-Language Binding for PSL

In recent years we have seen an increase in the complexity of embedded system design and in the difficulties of their verification. As a result, engineers have been trying to verify the specifications at a higher level of abstraction. In this paper we present an automated tool which is able to perform runtime verification of a programs logical properties asserted by the programmer. The idea is to leverage the Assertion Based Verification language PSL, which is widely used by hardware engineers, extending it to the software verification of C language programs. The properties expressed in a simple subset of PSL are evaluated by the tool during full system simulation. Like in hardware Assertion Based Verification, the tool can handle both safety properties (absence of bad events) and liveness properties (good events eventually happen). The liveness property is not widely supported in existing verification tools.
Odonate Predator Does Not Affect Hatching Time or Morphology of Embryos of Two Amphibians

Abstract Many larval amphibians respond to predators by developing broad tail fins that increase maneuverability and reduce predation risk. Recent evidence also indicates that amphibian embryos may adaptively alter their time at hatching in the presence of a predator, but the generality of this phenomenon is unknown. We examined whether embryos of the Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica) and Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) would alter hatching time, hatching synchrony, or body morphology in the presence of a larval predator. Using a 2 × 2 factorial design, we exposed developing embryos to four experimental treatments that varied in predation risk: unfed Anax junius (an odonate predator), fed A. junius, conspecific larvae, or water. Response variables were central tendency (mean or median) and variation (CV or range) for hatch time and developmental stage and four linear body dimensions that were used to detect changes in morphology. Effect sizes were small (< 0.36), and none of the response variables diffe...
Competition, Cost Innovation, and X-inefficiency in Experimental Markets

This paper examines the relationship between competition, cost innovation, and x-inefficiency in experimental markets. In the lab, oligopolists make closer-to-optimal cost innovation expenditures than do monopolists, which result in lower x-inefficiency in oligopoly than in monopoly. Oligopolies also increase total surplus relative to monopoly, and consumer surplus makes up a larger portion of total surplus in oligopoly than monopoly. The data illustrate how x-inefficiency affects surplus dynamically and suggest price as a mechanism by which competitive pressure increases cost efficiency.
SUBSTATE EXCITATION OF 2$sup +$ STATES PRODUCED BY INELASTIC SCATTERING OF PROTONS ON $sup 12$C, $sup 54$Fe, AND $sup 58$Ni.

A combined analysis of absolute in-plane and $z$-axis (spin-flip) $p\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ angular correlation measurements for ${0}^{+}$-${2}^{+}$-${0}^{+}$ transitions leads to various combinations of substate cross sections, populations, and phase angles. These quantities are compared with predictions based on reaction-mechanism theories. The test is very stringent. Measurements and analyses have been carried out for $^{12}\mathrm{C}(p,{p}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\gamma})^{12}\mathrm{C}^{*}$(4.44 MeV) and $^{58}\mathrm{Ni}(p,{p}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\gamma})^{58}\mathrm{Ni}^{*}$(1.45 MeV) at ${E}_{p}=20$ MeV, and for $^{54}\mathrm{Fe}(p,{p}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\gamma})^{54}\mathrm{Fe}^{*}$(1.41 MeV) at ${E}_{p}=19.6$ MeV.
Effect of zinc on serum alkaline phosphatase activity in patients with and without cancer.

SummaryA concentration of 10−5 M: Zn++ failed to affect the serum alkaline phosphatase activity in individuals either with or without cancer. These results are not in agreement with the findings of Roche et al.1,2 that this concentration of Zn++ activates the serum alkaline phosphatase activity of individuals without cancer and inhibits this activity in patients with cancer. Concentrations of 10−4 and 10−3 M decreased the serum alkaline phosphatase activity, but the extent of these decreases was the same in patients with and without malignancy.
Delayed repair of obstetric injuries of the anorectum and vagina: A stratified surgical approach

PURPOSE: We categorized the various types of postobstetric injuries of the anorectum and vagina encountered in a five-year period. The operative procedures used to repair these injuries and the functional outcome after surgery were assessed. METHODS: Between 1986 and 1991, 52 patients were surgically treated for obstetric injuries of the anorectum and vagina; 48 patients were available for follow-up study. Four clinical injury types were identified: Type I, incontinent anal sphincter (11 patients); Type II, rectovaginal fistula (16 patients); Type III, rectovaginal fistula and incontinent anal sphincter (11 patients); and Type IV, cloaca-like defect (10 patients). The mean age of the patients was 30 years, the mean duration of symptoms before surgery was 13 months, and the mean follow-up period was 16 months. The major component of surgical repair for each injury type was: Type I, overlap repair of external anal sphincter; Type II, rectal mucosal advancement flap; Type III, overlap repair of external anal sphincter and rectal mucosal advancement flap; and Type IV, overlap repair of external anal sphincter, anterior levatorplasty, and anal and vaginal mucosal reconstruction. Fecal diversion was not performed in any patient. Specific questions were asked at the most recent follow-up assessment to determine results. RESULTS: Continence status postoperatively was classified as perfect, impaired, or poor; poor was defined as no improvement or worse. Postoperative continence (perfect, impaired, or poor) was, respectively: Type I (11 patients), 64 percent, 36 percent, and 0 percent; Type II (16 patients), 56 percent, 0 percent, and 44 percent; Type III (11 patients), 64 percent, 36 percent, and 0 percent; and Type IV (10 patients), 90 percent, 10 percent, and 0 percent. Vaginal discharge of stool was eliminated in all patients with a rectovaginal fistula. Subjectively, 92 percent of the patients had excellent or good results. Complications included wound hematoma (n=2), fecal impaction (n=2), urinary retention (n=1), and urinary tract infection (n=1). CONCLUSION: Patients with Type II injuries had the worst results (P< 0.001). These patients should be evaluated for anal incontinence before surgery to assess the need for a concomitant sphincteroplasty.
Field Tests of Antidesiccants to Extend the Infection Period of an Entomogenous Nematode, Neoaplectana carpocapsae, Against the Colorado Potato Beetle

Field tests were conducted in Fort Collins, Colo., to determine the value of various commercially available antidesiccants for protection of infectious dauerlarvae of an entomogenous nematode, Neoaplectana carpocapsae Weiser, after application. The aqueous formulations containing inert thickeners and surfactants were sprayed on potato foliage infested with larvae of Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). The formulations tested included various concentrations and mixtures of Methocel™, Folicote™, Norbak™, and Nalcotrol™. All formulations tested retarded desiccation and increased retention of nematodes on leaf surfaces, yielding infection rates of 30 to 60%. Nematodes sprayed in water suspensions under similar conditions produced infection rates of 10%. Also, comparison of morning and evening nematode applications demonstrated that applications made during the evening hours produce higher infection levels than those made during the morning.
Laboratory Biology of Meteorus autographae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), an Indigenous Parasitoid of Soybean Looper (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Larvae

Certain biological characteristics of the parasitoid Meteorus autographae Muesebeck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) were determined in the laboratory. Total developmental time from oviposition to emergence of adult M. autographae decreased with each successive increase in temperature (39.8 and 13.8 days at 16 and 27°C, respectively). Meteorus autographae parasitized and developed successfully in 1st through 5th instars of Pseudoplusia includens (Walker). Larvae of Trichoplusia ni (Hubner), Heliothis zea (Boddie), H. virescens (F.), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), S. exigua (Hubner), and Anticarsia gemmatalis Hubner also were suitable hosts for M. autographae. An average of 241.8 progeny were produced per female during her lifetime. Larvae of P. includens that were parasitized by M. autographae ceased feeding ca. 6 to 8 days after parasitization and consumed 78% less soybean foliage than nonparasitized larvae.