cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fatal large-volume mouthwash ingestion in an adult: a review and the possible role of phenolic compound toxicity.

Objective: To describe a case of fatal mouthwash ingestion and review possible sources of toxicity. Design: Case report. Setting: Veterans Administration Medical Center. Patient: Single patient with massive mouthwash ingestion. Main results: This patient was a 45-year-old man who developed cardiovascular collapse and multiorgan system failure following a massive ingestion of mouthwash (almost 3 liters). His presentation was remarkable for a profound anion-gap metabolic acidosis and a significant osmolar gap. No other co-ingestants were identified, and he expired despite full supportive care including dialysis and mechanical ventilation. An autopsy failed to identify any other cause of death. Nonalcoholic ingredients of this mouthwash are phenolic compounds (eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol), and large-volume mouthwash ingestion will produce exposure in the reported toxic range of these ingredients. Conclusions: When ingested in large quantities, the phenolic compounds in mouthwash may contribute to a sever...
Analysis and Design in MSG.84: Formalizing Functional Specifications

Model building is identified as the most important part of the analysis and design process for software systems. A set of primitives to support this process is presented, along with a formal language, MSG.84, for recording the results of analysis and design. The semantics of the notation is defined in terms of the actor formalism, which is based on a message passing paradigm. The automatic derivation of a graphical form of the specification for user review is discussed. Potentials for computer-aided design based on MSG.84 are indicated.
Cultured Endometrial Cancer Cells Exhibit Autocrine Growth Factor Stimulation That Is Not Observed in Cultured Normal Endometrial Cells

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the autocrine stimulation hypothesis, primary cultures of malignant and normal endometrium were assayed for differences in response to growth factors (GF) and GF receptor blocking antibodies. Methods: Thirteen normal and 10 malignant endometrial samples were collected. Cells were enzymatically dispersed and maintained in serum-free medium. They were incubated with epidermal GF (EGF), transforming GF-α (TGF-α), insulin-like GF-I (IGF-1), anti-EGF receptor antibody (Ab528), and anti-IGF-1 receptor antibody (αIR3) at physiologic concentrations. Tritiated thymidine incorporation was measured. Results: Malignant endometrial cells increased thymidine incorporation when incubated with EGF (20.75%), TGF-α (19.8%), or IGF-1 (32.8%) compared to untreated control cells. When incubated with Ab528 or αIR3 antibodies alone, proliferation of malignant cells was inhibited (−12.4 and −23%, respectively, P P
Computational tools for using and analyzing DNA sequences

By early 1987 nucleic acid sequences totaling about 14 million bases have been determined. As the volume of sequence data grows, its value for investigating relationships, testing hypotheses, and designing experiments grows as some power, greater than one, of the total. This is owing, at least in part, to the steady expansion in the power and variety of computational tools available for search, comparison, and analysis of sequences, and of computers of all kinds to apply them. GenBank in the United States and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Europe cooperate to collect, annotate, and organize all nucleic acid sequence data into a computer database and to distribute it regularly to investigators on convenient computerreadable media. (Although EMBL and GenBank distribute somewhat different versions of the database, differences in content are rapidly disappearing.) GenBank is operated under a contract with the National Institutes of Health, which with a consortium of federal agencies as cosponsors, 2 bear the cost of collecting data; it is distributed at nominal
Optimizing Glycosyltransferase Specificity via “Hot Spot” Saturation Mutagenesis Presents a Catalyst for Novobiocin Glycorandomization

A comprehensive two-phase "hot spot" saturation mutagenesis strategy for the rapid evolution of glycosyltransferase (GT) specificity for nonnatural acceptors is described. Specifically, the application of a high-throughput screen (based on the fluorescent acceptor umbelliferone) was used to identify key amino acid hot spots that contribute to GT proficiency and/or promiscuity. Saturation mutagenesis of the corresponding hot spots facilitated the utilization of a lower-throughput screen to provide OleD prodigy capable of efficiently glycosylating the nonnatural acceptor novobiocic acid with an array of unique sugars. Incredibly, even in the absence of a high-throughput screen for novobiocic acid glycosylation, this approach rapidly led to improvements in the desired catalytic activity of several hundred-fold.
Sol–gel glass is not necessarily an inert matrix for enzyme encapsulation. Catalysis of sulfoxidation by silica

Abstract In sulfoxidation of thioanisole (PhSMe) by hydrogen peroxide, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) encapsulated in sol–gel silica glass exhibits the same yield as dissolved HRP does but lower excess of the (S)-enantiomer (68% versus 91% at 22°C and 43% versus 86% at 40°C). Unexpectedly, the yield of methyl phenyl sulfoxide, PhS(O)Me, is the same in the presence of undoped and HRP-doped glasses. All of these findings result from the ability of the silica matrix itself to catalyze the sulfoxidation reaction. The drop in the enantiomeric excess is due to two simultaneous processes, namely enantioselective HRP catalysis and non-enantioselective silica catalysis. This side effect of the silica matrix makes possible an efficient method for the sulfoxidation of aryl methyl sulfides by hydrogen peroxide in water. In the presence of silica gel, the corresponding sulfoxides are obtained in the 76–90% yield. Evidently, sol–gel glass may not be an inert matrix for the encapsulated enzyme. The possible catalysis by silica should be taken into consideration in the design of biosensors, supported catalysts, and other composite materials.
Phenylephrine hypertrophy, Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2), and Ca2+ signaling in neonatal rat cardiac myocytes

We endeavored to use a basic and well-controlled experimental system to characterize the extent and time sequence of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) involvement in the development ...
Image processing techniques for laser propagation through atmospheric turbulence

In order to better understand laser beam propagation through the analysis of the fluctuations in scintillation data, images from a 30 frame per second monochrome camera are utilized. Scintillation is the effect of atmospheric turbulence which is known to disrupt and alter the intensity and formation of a laser signal as it propagates through the atmosphere. To model and understand this phenomenon, recorded video output of a laser upon a target screen is inspected to determine how much of an effect the atmospheric turbulence has disrupted the laser signal as it has been propagated upon a set distance. The techniques of data processing outlined in this paper moves toward a software-based approach of determining the effects of propagation and detection of a laser based on the visual fluctuations caused by the scintillation effect. With the aid of such visual models, this paper examines the idea of implementing mathematical models via software that is then validated by the gathered video data taken at Kennedy Space Center.
Developmental differences in memory and practice effects in relearning

Developmental aspects of relearning were examined in 3-year-olds, 5-year-olds, and college students by using Nelson’s (1971) revised savings paradigm. A set of picture pairs was learned to a recognition criterion of one error-free trial. After 2 weeks, the subjects returned for tests of retention and relearning. During relearning, the subjects received one study/test trial of a set composed of pairs seen previously (“old pairs”) and pairs created by re-pairing pictures seen previously (“new pairs”). Significant savings was found for all age groups on old pairs relative to new pairs. A developmental trend toward decreased savings with age was noted. Results are discussed with respect to the relative contributions of savings and practice to retention.
Optimum Economic Design and Control of a Gas Permeation Membrane Coupled with the Hydrodealkylation (HDA) Process

This paper studies the design and control of a modified hydrodealkylation (HDA) process that uses a membrane to reduce hydrogen losses in the methane purge stream. A dynamic, counter-current membrane module is written using Aspen Custom Modeler to capture both the steady-state and dynamic performance of the membrane. The feed to the membrane is the purge stream from the conventional HDA process without a membrane. The hydrogen-rich permeate is compressed and recycled back into the process to reduce the demand for fresh hydrogen feed. The methane-rich retentate is the new purge stream from the system. A steady-state economic analysis is performed to determine the optimum membrane area and permeate pressure. Increasing the area and decreasing the pressure result in lower hydrogen consumption; however, the capital investment and energy costs increase. The return on the incremental investment is used to select the best design. The final design reduces the required flow rate of fresh hydrogen feed by approxima...
Relating image-based features to mammogram interpretation

Mammography is a widely used technique to screen for breast cancer. However, due to the complexity of the breast tissue and to the low prevalence of cancer in the screening population, between 10-30% of retrospectively visible cancers are not reported. Faulty visual search, that is, not examining the area where the cancer is located, is responsible for a third of these misses, but all other unreported cancers attract some amount of visual attention, as indicated by the duration of visual gaze in the location of the lesion. Thus, perceptual and decision making mechanisms must be understood, in order to aid radiologists to detect cancer at earlier stages. We have been working on modeling these mechanisms by using spatial frequency analysis, in a process that is inspired by the rules and complexity of the eye-brain system. In this paper we analyze the different decision outcomes of experienced mammographers and less experienced radiology residents, undergoing a mammography rotation, when examining a case set of 40 two-view mammogram cases. We also characterize the interplay between local factors, which are related to the area of the image that attracts visual attention, and global factors, which are related to breast sampling, as they affect decision outcome for each group.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Use of a dual orifice die for on-line extruder measurement of flow behavior index in starchy foods

Abstract A new method for the measurement of flow behavior index was tested using low density polyethylene (LDPE), corn meal, and waxy and dent corn starches. A specially designed dual orifice capillary die was attached to a pilot scale twin screw extruder, enabling two flow rates to be collected at one extruder condition. The power law index was determined using a ratio of these flow rates and the known lengths and radii of the capillaries. This method provides a more accurate and time efficient determination of the power law index of extruded food materials than is currently available. Values obtained for the LDPE ( n =0.47–0.67) were similar to those obtained with a capillary rheometer ( n =0.49). Likewise, values measured for corn meal ( n =0.34–0.58) and for waxy and dent corn starches ( n =0.62–0.72 and 0.40–0.43, respectively) compared well to literature values and followed expected trends.
The use of triton X-100 in the liquid scintillation counting of carbon-14 with particular reference to plasma and urine

Abstract The use of a liquid scintillant based on toluene and Triton X-100 for counting carbon-14 labelled compounds in plasma, urine and aqueous solutions of salts has been examined and the optimal conditions determined. The quenching effect of various aqueous solutions and organic solvents has also been examined. It is recommended that either 2 ml of plasma or 1 ml or urine is added to 10 ml of scintillant based on a 1:1 mixture of toluene and Triton X-100 containing PPO and POPOP There appears to be little advantage in substituting Butyl PBD for these scintillators.
What Exacerbates Injury and Harm in Car-SUV Collisions?

Concern over collisions between passenger cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) is growing, as more SUVs enter the market. However, little is known about the different roles that car drivers and SUV drivers play in such collisions or about the roadway locations where the most harmful car–SUV collisions occur. This paper explores the effect of driver and roadway factors as they relate to physical and monetary harm. The analysis is based on a 3-year sample of crashes in the Crashworthiness Data System. A sample of 539 car–SUV collisions are analyzed, representing 402,306 weighted cases. The analysis of physical harm, based on the most severe injury, corroborates the analysis of monetary harm, which is based on costs incurred by all occupants. Cars and SUVs contribute different amounts to the average cost; the monetary harm to cars and their occupants is about twice as high as for SUVs, reflecting the mass differentials and incompatibility of the two vehicle platforms. Furthermore, higher monetary costs are...
Human placental tissue stimulates bovine capillary endothelial cell growth, migration and protease production

A crude extract of human placenta has been demonstrated to stimulate growth, motility and the production of the proteases plasminogen activator and collagenase in cultured bovine capillary endothelial cells. These data are in keeping with the presence of an angiogenic factor(s) in human placenta.
Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins and their role in controlling IGF actions

The insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) are a family of six proteins that bind to insulin-like growth factor-I and -II with very high affinity. Because their affinity constants are between two- and 50-fold greater than the IGF-I receptor, they control the distribution of the IGFs among soluble IGFBPs in interstitial fluids, IGFBPs bound to cell surfaces or extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell surface receptors. Although there are six forms of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins, most interstitial fluids contain only three or four forms, and usually only one or two predominate. The proteins differ significantly in their biochemical characteristics, and this accounts for many of the differences that have been observed in their biological actions. Several different types of protease cleave these binding proteins. Proteolytic cleavage generally inactivates the binding proteins or reduces their ability to bind to IGF-I or -II substantially. Several cell types have been shown to secrete these proteases; therefore, the factors that regulate protease activity can control binding protein actions indirectly. Other post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation and phosphorylation, have been shown to alter IGF binding protein activity. While binding protein actions have been studied extensively in vitro, many of the in vivo activities of these proteins remain to be defined.
Epidemiology and clinical presentations of celiac disease

Evidence of the prevalence of celiac disease comes from serological screening studies. These have revealed that celiac disease is common, occurring in about 1 % of the population worldwide. There are some countries with higher prevalence rates such as Finland and others with lower rates, for example Germany. The disease is found in most continents and appears to be increasing. Most people with the disease are not currently diagnosed though women are diagnosed more frequently than men. The mode of presentation has changed both in children and adults with diarrhea and a malabsorption syndrome becoming less common. Abdominal pain and growth issues are major modes of presentation in children, while anemia, osteoporosis, and recognition at endoscopy performed for GERD are seen as modes of presentation in adults. Screening of at risk groups is a major mode of presentation for both adults and children.
Investigation of the C-ring test for measuring hoop tensile strength of nuclear grade ceramic composites

Abstract Silicon carbide (SiC) and silicon carbide fiber reinforced composites (SiC/SiC f ) are currently being evaluated as a high temperature material for use in nuclear reactors. While methods to determine the mechanical properties of SiC/SiC f on planar test specimens are well established, mechanical testing methods for tubular SiC/SiC f are still being developed. In this study the C-ring test is evaluated for use with nuclear grade SiC/SiC f as a method of measuring hoop strength. For the samples tested in this work, hoop strengths from C-ring testing are shown to agree within 6% to those obtained using expanding plug testing and analysis shows that the expected composite behavior is observed during testing. While other techniques may give more accurate values for hoop stress, the small specimen requirements and ease of testing makes C-ring testing a valuable tool.
Baja California disjunctions and phylogeographic patterns in sympatric California blennies

Baja California disjuncts, which are marine species that are present in the northern Sea of Cortez and along the Pacific Coast of California and Baja California, but absent from the south, have been shown to be interesting models of allopatric speciation. While at least 19 species of fish are Baja California disjuncts, no study has ever evaluated the genetic patterns of closely related species. Here, we used three sympatric California blennies (genus Hypsoblennius), where two species have disjunct populations and one does not. Based on one mitochondrial and one nuclear molecular marker, we found that the two disjunct species exhibit different genetic patterns, one species showing disjunct populations as reciprocally monophyletic assemblages, while the other species showed evidence of gene flow between disjunct populations. In addition, the non-disjunct species, H. gilberti, exhibits high gene flow along the California and Baja California coasts. I hypothesized that adult habitat and historical vicariant events, more so than pelagic larval duration, played major roles in shaping the currently observed distribution and genetic patterns for these species.
Progression of choroidal neovascularization following injection of pegaptanib sodium (macugen) in two eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Purpose To describe two cases of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that progressed despite a single intravitreal injection of pegaptanib sodium (Macugen) six weeks earlier. Design Interventional case report. Methods A 62-year-old man and a 76-year-old woman with occult and minimally classic lesions, respectively, each received a single injection of intravitreal pegaptanib. Results Within six weeks of an intravitreal pegaptanib injection, the choroidal neovascularization (CNV) progressed. In one eye, the chronic occult lesion developed subfoveal classic CNV. In the other eye, the classic component of the minimally classic lesion tripled in size. Conclusions A single dose of intravitreal pegaptanib was not effective in these two patients at six weeks. This report reminds the ophthalmologist to consider obtaining a fluorescein angiogram during follow-up after an intravitreal pegaptanib injection to monitor CNV lesion characteristics, particularly if the visual acuity decreases.
Effects of fluticasone propionate and salmeterol hydrofluoroalkane inhalation aerosol on asthma-related quality of life

Background Current asthma guidelines emphasize domains of impairment and risk for assessing severity and control, noting the need to consider separately the effects of asthma on asthma quality of life and functional capacity. Proper treatment to control asthma should result in improvements in patient well-being and functional status. Objective To assess asthma-related quality of life after treatment with combination fluticasone propionate and salmeterol delivered via hydrofluoroalkane 134a metered-dose inhaler compared with the individual components alone. Methods Asthma-related quality of life was assessed as part of two 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials comparing the fluticasone propionate–salmeterol combination administered via a single metered-dose inhaler with salmeterol, fluticasone propionate, and placebo administered via traditional chlorofluorocarbon metered-dose inhaler. The Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire was completed at baseline and end point. Score changes, overall and for the 4 separate domains, were compared within and among the treatment groups. Results A total of 720 of 725 patients completed a baseline Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire and were included in the analyses. In both studies, all mean scores improved significantly from baseline with the fluticasone propionate–salmeterol combination, with significantly greater improvement in the overall score compared with salmeterol alone, fluticasone propionate alone, and placebo groups. Improvements with the combination were also clinically meaningful compared with changes with salmeterol and placebo in both studies and with fluticasone propionate in study 1. Conclusions Treatment with combination fluticasone propionate and salmeterol delivered via hydrofluoroalkane metered-dose inhaler resulted in significantly greater improvements in asthma-related quality of life compared with individual components and placebo administered via traditional chlorofluorocarbon metered-dose inhaler.
Ion homeostasis in the ear: mechanisms, maladies, and management

Purpose of Review Describe ion and water homeostatic mechanisms in the inner ear, how they are compromised in hearing disorders, and what treatments are employed to restore auditory function.
Preliminary Analysis and Testing of the AWOG: A Novel Non-Rotational Wind Energy Extraction Device

This paper highlights the work done by the authors to develop and test a novel, biologically inspired, non-rotational wind energy extraction device. This device capitalizes on the principles of a wind deflected shaft and vortex induced vibrations to generate micro-scale power. Piezoelectric and magnetic flux methods are explored as options to convert the stored energy of mechanical deflection to electrical power. The device is modeled after long-stemmed grasses, grains, and bamboos and geometrically mimics their aspect ratio in order to replicate their movement in low altitude, turbulent flows. This design is based on a significant sampling of the shaft aspect ratios and head shapes of naturally occurring biological samples collected in the field. This concept has been affectionately christened the AWOG (Amber Waves of Grain) and shows promise for use in highly turbulent, low-level air flows close to the ground or mounting surface. Potential operating sites of the AWOG, include locations very close to ground level, along building rooflines, and in urban settings. To determine the efficiency and power output of a single AWOG unit, wind tunnel testing and in-situ field testing were performed. Power stored in a single deflected AWOG has been experimentally determined to be 430 w/m^2, which is comparable to existing wind turbine designs. Initial tests outlined in this paper are only able to recover a fraction of the stored energy. Practical applications of AWOG units would be to use them in formation and examinations are included for several proposed grouping methods. Analysis is performed to determine the ideal arrangement for grouped AWOG units based on experimental and field data from biological specimens and wind tunnel tests. This includes analyzing the effect that different configurations have on individual power output and efficiency of the formation as a whole. Recommendations are made as to the feasibility of use in a variety of settings and consideration is given concerning scaling of the AWOG to the micro-scale and to larger scales.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Clinical Diagnostic Criteria for TMD New Classification Permits Multiple Diagnoses

One of the first to permit multiple diagnoses, this new TMD classification scheme offers guidelines for clinicians and those conducting clinical field studies. The scheme was applied to a TMD population, with control subjects.
Men and things, women and people: A meta-analysis of sex differences in interests.

The magnitude and variability of sex differences in vocational interests were examined in the present meta-analysis for Holland’s (1959, 1997) categories (Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional), Prediger’s (1982) Things–People and Data–Ideas dimensions, and the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) interest areas. Technical manuals for 47 interest inventories were used, yielding 503,188 respondents. Results showed that men prefer working with things and women prefer working with people, producing a large effect size (d 0.93) on the Things–People dimension. Men showed stronger Realistic (d 0.84) and Investigative (d 0.26) interests, and women showed stronger Artistic (d 0.35), Social (d 0.68), and Conventional (d 0.33) interests. Sex differences favoring men were also found for more specific measures of engineering (d 1.11), science (d 0.36), and mathematics (d 0.34) interests. Average effect sizes varied across interest inventories, ranging from 0.08 to 0.79. The quality of interest inventories, based on professional reputation, was not differentially related to the magnitude of sex differences. Moderators of the effect sizes included interest inventory item development strategy, scoring method, theoretical framework, and sample variables of age and cohort. Application of some item development strategies can substantially reduce sex differences. The present study suggests that interests may play a critical role in gendered occupational choices and gender disparity in the STEM fields.
Dry Layer Permeability and Freeze‐Drying Rates in Concentrated Fluid Systems

SUMMARY— Effects of composition, of freezing rates, and of pressure on dry layer permeability of freeze-dried liquids were studied. Permeability was found to be higher for slowly frozen samples of coffee and of a model system, than for rapidly frozen samples. A surface layer of very low permeability was observed in all samples frozen without agitation. Permeabilities obtained in steady state measurements were found to correlate with permeabilities calculated from freeze-drying rates. A mathematical analysis based on the assumption of a uniform dry layer with constant properties was found to apply better to slush frozen samples than to samples frozen without agitation.
Pediatric posterior fossa ganglioglioma: unique MRI features and correlation with BRAF V600E mutation status

Ganglioglioma (GG) is a rare pediatric brain tumor (1-4 %) with neoplastic glial and neuronal cells. Posterior fossa GGs (PF GGs) occur less frequently than supratentorial GGs (ST GGs). The BRAF V600E mutation has been reported in GGs and carries therapeutic implications. We compare the presenting symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging, BRAF V600E mutation status, treatment, and prognosis in children with ST and PF GGs. The neuro-oncology database at a tertiary care Children's Hospital was retrospectively reviewed from 1995 to 2010 for patients with ST and PF GG. All available imaging was reviewed. Symptoms, BRAF V600E mutation status, treatment, and survival data were collected from the electronic medical record and analyzed. Our series consisted of 11 PF GG and 20 ST GG. Children with PF GG presented with ataxia, cranial nerve deficits and long tract signs whereas the majority with ST GGs presented with seizures. On imaging, PF GGs were infiltrative and expansile solid masses with dorsal predominant "paintbrush" enhancement whereas ST GGs were well circumscribed mixed solid and cystic masses with heterogeneous enhancement. Five of 11 (45%) PF GGs and 6 of 9 (67%) ST GGs expressed the BRAF V600E mutation. No unique imaging features were identified in BRAF V600E mutation positive tumors. The majority of ST GGs were treated with surgery alone, whereas the majority of PF GGs required multimodality therapy. PF GGs had worse progression-free survival and a higher mortality rate compared with ST GGs. Unlike ST GGs, PF GGs are expansile, infiltrative, show dorsal predominant "paintbrush" enhancement, are not amenable to gross total resection, and have worse progression-free survival and mortality.
Changes in protein kinase C (PKC) activity, isozyme translocation, and GAP-43 phosphorylation in the rat hippocampal formation after a single-trial contextual fear conditioning paradigm.

The hippocampus plays an important role in spatial learning and memory. However, the biochemical alterations that subserve this function remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, rats were subjected to a single-trial contextual fear conditioning (CFC) paradigm; the activation of different protein kinase C (PKC) subtypes and the levels and phosphorylation of the plasticity-associated protein GAP-43 were assayed in the hippocampus at varying times after training. We observed a rapid activation of hippocampal PKC (15 min through 24 h), with differential translocation of the PKC isotypes studied. At early times after CFC (15–90 min), PKCα and PKCγ translocated to the membrane, while PKCβII and PKCϵ moved more transiently (15 to 30 min) to the cytosol. These PKC isotypes returned to the membrane at later time points after CFC. Correlating with these changes in PKC translocation and activity, there was an early decrease in GAP-43 phosphorylation followed by a more sustained increase from 1.5-72 h. GAP-43 protein levels were also increased after 3 h, and these levels remained elevated for at least 72 h. These changes in PKC and GAP-43 were specific to the CFC trained animals and no changes were seen in animals exposed to the same stimuli in a non-associative fashion. Comparison of translocation of different PKC isotypes with the changes in GAP-43 phosphorylation suggested that PKCβII and PKCϵ may mediate both the early changes in the phosphorylation of this protein and the increases in GAP-43 expression at later times after CFC. Hippocampus 2002;12:457–464. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fracture-resistant dilute-solution ultralloys for space-power systems

Abstract Intensifying space-power demands require alloys with maximal melting points, recrystallization temperatures, creep resistance and ductility as well as minimal vapor pressures and grain sizes. Appropriate composition selection and property optimization depend on understanding and predicting ultralloy-constituent interactions. Theory and empiricism dedicated to that purpose provide ultralloy insights here through examination of dilute-solution effects of W additives. Low-concentration additions that minimize diminution of the high-temperature capabilities of W yet substantially improve resistance to creep, recrystallization and embrittlement comprise the transition metals Re, Os and Ir as well as Th, Hf and their very refractory interstitial-impurity-reaction products. Pertinent estimations of salient characteristics such as alloy-cohesion enthalpies and volume contractions indicate interactive strengths and fast-diffusion tendencies important in creep and recrystallization phenomena. These and other aspects of ultralloy science form a basis for understanding and projection relevant to future space-power material requirements.
Image Features As Virtual Beacons For Local Navigation

A technique for dynamic position correction using image features as virtual beacons is described. An algorithm which acquires new features, computes robot position correction vectors from tracked features, and maintains feature reliability statistics is detailed. The algorithm minimizes the use of matching to reduce computational expense and increase robustness. The principal inputs to the algorithm are the relative bearings observed between feature pairs. Unlike stereo-vision techniques it does not compute explicit feature range estimates. Unlike the bulk of vision based navigation methods, an accurate position estimate results from the integration of a large number of correction vectors derived from the low level analysis of many images. A control architecture for an autonomous mobile robot which makes use of this positioning technique is discussed. The general navigation problem of positioning, model building, path finding, and path execution is decomposed into local and global navigation. Local navigation is independent of high level representations, it is concerned with the immediately perceivable environment and deals with the bulk of the real-time constraints. Methods for coupling local and global navigation are explored. Simulation results showing the behavior of such a control system are presented. The motivation behind this research is the belief that a substantial subset of the navigation problem can be solved using only information obtained during early vision processing. This technique is expected to be more computationally tractable than methods based on optical flow field determination and more accurate than landmark based navigation methods.
Regulation of mRNAs for three enzymes in the glial cell model C6 cell line

In the glial cell line C6, regulation of actinomycin D (Act-D)-sensitive translatable polysomal mRNAs of three key enzymes--glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH; EC 1.1.1.8) and glutamine synthetase (GS) by glucocorticoids and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; EC 1.1.1.27) by catecholamines--is described. Though the first two enzymes are hydrocortisone (HC)-inducible, the nature of their response to the hyperacetylating agent sodium butyrate is dramatically different. Furthermore the appearance of GPDH translatable poly(A)+ RNA in HC-induced cells is inhibited by the presence of cycloheximide (CHX), whereas the induction of GS is unaffected by CHX. These observations necessitate further probing into an existing model system to explain the varied mechanisms of induction of these two enzymes by a single inducer. In combination with the third enzyme whose induction by catecholamines is glial specific, we believe that the C6 cell represents the most appropriate cell line for molecular neurobiologists to study the mechanisms of hormone action in glia.
Effects of hydrin 2 on cutaneous electrical properties of Rana pipiens.

Abstract Electrical properties were measured in isolated skin patches from leopard frogs ( Rana pipiens ) to explore the possibility that hydrin 2 (vasotocinyl-gly) may regulate cutaneous ion transport. Hydrin 2 is a neurohypophysial peptide commonly implicated in rehydration of anurans. Experimental frogs were given either one or two intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of hydrin 2 in saline solution, each calculated to achieve a final blood concentration of 81 ng/ml. After a 2-h equilibration period, the frogs were euthanized and abdominal skin removed for study in a Ussing chamber. Results of this study confirm that exposure of R. pipiens to hydrin 2 promotes a highly significant increase in transepithelial potential (TEP) and short-circuit current ( I sc ), with both treatment and treatment ∗ time interactions in doubly injected frogs (repeated measures ANOVA). The apparent decrease in cutaneous R of experimental animals was not significant. Supplemental additions of hydrin 2 to the serosal bath provoked changes in TEPs, I sc s, and R s which are difficult to interpret. In a dose–response study, 10-fold increases in serosal hydrin 2 concentration triggered significant changes in TEP and I sc , with maximal responses observed at 10 ng/ml. Because hydrin 2 is known to facilitate “cutaneous drinking” in anurans, this study suggests a correlation between ion and water transport across the skin.
Uptake of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Among Adolescent Males and Females: Immunization Information System Sentinel Sites, 2009–2012

Abstract Objective The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended routine human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination at age 11 or 12 years for girls since 2006 and for boys since 2011. We sought to describe adolescent HPV vaccination coverage, doses administered from 2009 to 2012, and age at first vaccination by sex. Methods Aggregate data were analyzed from 8 Immunization Information System sentinel sites on HPV vaccinations in children and adolescents aged 11 to 12 years, 13 to 15 years, and 16 to 18 years. Vaccination coverage by age group was reported for 2009 to 2012, and weekly doses administered were determined. Age at first HPV vaccination was calculated for girls in 2007 and 2011 and for boys in 2011. Results This analysis included data on 2.9 million adolescents aged 11 to 18 years. There were small increases in coverage for girls, with receipt of ≥1 dose of HPV vaccine reaching 27.1% of ages 11 to 12, 47.9% of ages 13 to 15, and 57.1% of ages 16 to 18 by December 31, 2012. Uptake of ≥1 dose in boys reached ∼18% for all age groups. Doses administered showed seasonal variation, with highest uptake before back to school among girls and steady increases in boys after the 2009 ACIP recommendation for permissive use. Doses administered to boys surpassed those administered to girls by September 2012. Among vaccinated girls, more received vaccine at the recommended age of 11 to 12 years in 2011 (74.2%) compared to 2007 (9.9%). In 2011, 27.3% of vaccinated boys received their first dose at age 11 to 12 years. Conclusions HPV vaccination coverage increased among adolescents between 2009 and 2012. However, increases among girls were small, and coverage for boys and girls remained below target levels.
Prolonged retention of high specific activity by 125I-labeled angiotensin II — a consequence of ‘decay catastrophe’

Abstract Angiotensin II labeled with a single atom of 125 I per moleculed had been shown to retain 80% of the original specific activity of the radioiodinated peptide during storage for up to 5 months. This phenomenon is attributable to destruction of the angiotensin II molecule during the radioactive decay process, so that the immunoreactive peptide effectively desappears at the same rate as the incorporated 125 I atom. For this reason, monoiodinated angiotensin II can be employed for prolonged periods in radioimmunoassay and binding studies, with retention of high specific activity in the absence of formation of free iodide or interfering peptide fragments.
Fertility, nuptiality, and family limitation among the Wends of Serbin, Texas, 1854 to 1920.

The decline of American fertility on a national scale is a well-known and well- documented phenomenon, but little is known about fertility decline at the community level. Are immigrant groups really different or are they affected by the same factors and respond to them in the same manner as native-born populations? This essay investigates the fertility and nuptiality experience of the Wends of Serbin, Texas using age-specific fertility rates, total marital fertility rates, the index of family limitation, age at last birth, birth intervals and age at first marriage for both males and females. The Wends are shown to have experienced fertility decline in the same magnitude as the rest of the country though they begin and end at higher levels.
A geographic information systems (GIS)-based analysis of modern south african rodent distributions, habitat use, and environmental tolerances

Goals of this study were to: (1) develop distributional maps of modern rodent genera throughout the countries of South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland by georeferencing museum specimens; (2) assess habitat preferences for genera by cross-referencing locality position with South African vegetation; and (3) identify mean annual precipitation and temperature range where the genera are located. Conterminous South Africa including the countries of Lesotho and Swaziland Digital databases of rodent museum specimens housed in the Ditsong National Museum of Natural History, South Africa (DM), and the Division of Mammals, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, United States (NMNH), were acquired and then sorted into a subset of specimens with associated coordinate data. The coordinate data were then used to develop distributional maps for the rodent genera present within the study area. Percent habitat occupation and descriptive statistics for six climatic variables were then determined for each genus by cross-referencing locality positions with vegetation and climatic maps. This report presents a series of maps illustrating the distribution of 35 rodent genera based on 19,471 geo-referenced specimens obtained from two major collections. Inferred habitat use by taxon is provided for both locality and specimen percent occurrence at three hierarchical habitat levels: biome, bioregion, and vegetation unit. Descriptive statistics for six climatic variables are also provided for each genus based on locality and specimen percent incidence. As rodent faunas are commonly used in paleoenvironmental reconstructions, an accurate assessment of rodent environmental tolerance ranges is necessary before confidence can be placed in an actualistic model. While the data presented here represent only a subset of the modern geographic distributions for many of the taxa examined, a wide range of environmental regimes are observed, suggesting that more research is necessary in order to accurately reconstruct an environmental signature when these taxa are found in the fossil record.
The effects of ethinylandrostenediol 3-cyclohexylpropionate on the reproductive tract of male and female rats.

ARECENT report from this laboratory (1) indicated that the biological activity of 17α-ethinyl-Δ5-androstene-3β,17β-diol was predominantly estrogenic in nature and that esterification of the 3-hydroxyl group resulted in a change of the ratio of uterine growth stimulating (UGSt) to testicular growth suppressing (TGSp) activities. The smaller molecular weight esters (1 to 4 carbons) were considerably more estrogenic than the parent alcohol whereas the ability to suppress the growth of immature rat testes was affected only slightly. In contrast, the UGSt potency of several of the high molecular weight esters was greatly reduced without proportionate decrease in testicular growth suppressing activities. This report presents data from a variety of experiments designed to establish the activity profile of one of the high molecular weight esters, 17α-ethinyl-Δ5-androstene-3β, 17β-diol 3-cyclohexylpropionate (hereafter referred to as ethandrostate), with special reference to its effects on the reproductive system ...
Entanglement Swapping with independent CW-Sources

We present an entanglement swapping experiment realized for the first time with independent photon pairs created in continuous wave (CW) mode. Pairs of entangled photons are created by the process of spontaneous parametric down conversion in nonlinear periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) waveguide crystals. Two photons, one from each pair are combined on a beamsplitter (BS) and projected via a joint measurement onto one of the four Bell states.
An efficient interconnection network for large-scale computer communications applications

This paper presents a new class of interconnection network architectures called hierarchical Manhattan-street network (H-MSN). The proposed network can be used in large-scale computer communication systems. The H-MSN combines useful features of the Manhattan-street network and hierarchical networks and is constructed recursively and hierarchically using a basic building block network. The lowest-level node of this network has a simple structure and is easy to implement. Unlike a typical interconnection network that uses a higher node degree to maintain a small network diameter as the networks grow, the H-MSN has a good capability of expandability with convenient fault tolerance and routing. Our simulation and analysis show that the H-MSN performs comparably to some currently used networks at a much lower cost, even when a larger network is used. This paper also presents the detailed node structure, diameter and performance cost analysis, and fault tolerance of the proposed network. It is shown how much penalty in the network diameter should be sustained if a network component fails.
Insights into the complex association of bovine factor Va with acidic-lipid-containing synthetic membranes

The mechanism of binding of blood coagulation cofactor factor Va to acidic-lipid-containing membranes has been addressed. Binding isotherms were generated at room temperature using the change in fluorescence anisotropy of pyrene-labeled bovine factor Va to detect binding to sonicated membrane vesicles containing either bovine brain phosphatidylserine (PS) or 1,2-dioleoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG) in combination with 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylcholine (POPC). The composition of the membranes was varied from 0 to 40 mol% for PS/POPC and from 0 to 65 mol % for DOPG/POPC membranes. Fitting the data to a classical Langmuir adsorption model yielded estimates of the dissociation constant (Kd) and the stoichiometry of binding. The values of Kd defined in this way displayed a maximum at low acidic lipid content but were nearly constant at intermediate to high fractions of acidic lipid. Fitting the binding isotherms to a two-process binding model (nonspecific adsorption in addition to binding of acidic lipids to sites on the protein) suggested a significant acidic-lipid-independent binding affinity in addition to occupancy of three protein sites that bind PS in preference to DOPG. Both analyses indicated that interaction of factor Va with an acidic-lipid-containing membrane is much more complex than those of factor Xa or prothrombin. Furthermore, a change in the conformation of bound pyrene-labeled factor Va with surface concentration of acidic lipid was implied by variation of both the saturating fluorescence anisotropy and the binding parameters with the acidic lipid content of the membrane. Finally, the results cannot support the contention that binding occurs through nonspecific adsorption to a patch or domain of acidic lipids in the membrane. Factor Va is suggested to associate with membranes by a complex process that includes both acidic-lipid-specific and acidic-lipid-independent sites and a protein structure change induced by occupancy of acidic-lipid-specific sites on the factor Va molecule.
Preliminary Clinical Experience with Digital Breast Tomosynthesis in the Visualization of Breast Microcalcifications

Objectives: To compare the visualization and image quality of microcalcifications imaged with digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) versus conventional digital mammography. Materials and Methods: Patients with microcalcifications detected on full field digital mammography (FFDM) recommended for needle core biopsy were enrolled in the study after obtaining patient's consent and institutional review board approval (n = 177 patients, 179 lesions). All had a bilateral combination DBT exam, after undergoing routine digital mammography, prior to biopsy. The study radiologist reviewed the FFDM and DBT images in a non-blinded comparison and assessed the visibility of the microcalcifications with both methods, including image quality and clarity with which the calcifications were seen. Data recorded included patient demographics, lesion size on FFDM, DBT, and surgical excision (when applicable), biopsy, and surgical pathology, if any. Results: Average lesion size on DBT was 1.5 cm; average lesion size on FFDM was 1.4 cm. The image quality of DBT was assessed as equivalent or superior in 92.2% of cases. In 7.8% of the cases, the FFDM image quality was assessed as equivalent or superior. Conclusion: In our review, DBT image quality appears to be comparable to or better than conventional FFDM in terms of demonstrating microcalcifications, as shown in 92.2% of cases.