cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Individual Account Retirement Plans: An Analysis of the 2013 Survey of Consumer Finances

This paper assesses the status of American families’ accumulations in individual account (IA) retirement plans, both through the incidence of ownership and the amounts accumulated, using the Federal Reserve Board’s triennial Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). Building on previous research by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) using prior SCF surveys, this paper investigates the percentage of families who own various types of retirement plans, including IRAs. Next, it provides both median and average estimates of the value of the assets in these accounts, as well as the proportion of total financial assets represented and their relative percentages within the IA retirement plan universe. It then focuses on the value of IRA rollovers as part of the total IRA market, in order to glean a sense of the full contribution that the employment-based, retirement-plan system makes to total retirement assets. The percentage of all families with an employment-based retirement plan from a current employer decreased from 38.8 percent in 1992 to 36.2 percent in 2013. While retirement plan ownership from a current employer among families declined from 2010-2013, the percentage of family heads who were eligible for defined contribution (DC) plans and chose to participate held essentially stable at 78.2 percent in 2010 to 78.7 percent in 2013. The percentage of families owning individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or Keoghs was also unchanged from 2010 (28.0 percent) to 2013 (28.1 percent). Furthermore, the percentage of families with an individual account retirement plan from a current employer or a previous employer or an IRA/Keogh declined from 50.4 percent in 2010 to 48.2 percent in 2013. However, when including defined benefit (pension) retirement plans, the percentage with any retirement plan was unchanged from 63.8 percent in 2010 to 63.5 percent in 2013. While ownership of employment-based plans and IRAs was unchanged to declining in 2013, the median (mid-point) account balance of those families owning an individual account retirement plan increased in 2013: The value was $22,992 in 1992, reached $38,608 in 2001, and increased to $59,000 in 2013. Individual account retirement plan assets were a clear majority of families’ total financial assets (among those owning such plans): 70.3 percent in 2013 at the median, unchanged from 2010. Across all demographic groups in 2013, these assets’ share at the median of total financial assets was at least 49.2 percent (when these accounts were owned). By IRA type, regular IRAs accounted for the largest percentage of IRA ownership, but rollover IRAs had a slightly larger share of assets than regular IRAs in 2013.
Should cognitive impairment be included in the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia

Neurocognitive impairment is considered a core component of schizophrenia, and is increasingly under investigation as a potential treatment target. On average, cognitive impairment is severe to moderately severe compared to healthy controls, and almost all patients with schizophrenia demonstrate cognitive decrements compared to their expected level if they had not developed the illness. Compared to patients with affective disorders, cognitive impairment in schizophrenia appears earlier, is more severe, and is more independent of clinical symptoms. Although the DSM-IV-TR and ICD-10 descriptions of schizophrenia include several references to cognitive impairment, neither the diagnostic criteria nor the subtypology of schizophrenia include a requirement of cognitive impairment. This paper forwards for consideration a proposal that the diagnostic criteria include a specific criterion of “a level of cognitive functioning suggesting a consistent severe impairment and/or a significant decline from premorbid levels considering the patient’s educational, familial, and socioeconomic background”. The inclusion of this criterion may increase the “point of rarity” with affective psychoses and may increase clinicians’ awareness of cognitive impairment, potentially leading to more accurate prognosis, better treatment outcomes, and a clearer diagnostic signal for genetic and biological studies. Future research will need to address the validity of these possibilities. The reliable determination of cognitive impairment as part of a standard diagnostic evaluation will present challenges to diagnosticians with limited resources or insufficient expertise. Cognitive assessment methods for clinicians, including brief assessments and interview-based assessments, are discussed. Given the current emphasis on the development of cognitive treatments, the evaluation of cognition in schizophrenia is an essential component of mental health education.
Resonant gamma absorption near crystal surfaces

The recoilless Mossbauer fraction is calculated for nuclei at various positions within a crystal to determine the difference between nuclei near the surface and in the interior. It is shown that changes in the recoilless fraction on the order of ten percent can occur depending on the location of the interacting atom with respect to the crystal surface. The recoilless fraction is decreased for sites near the surface. (C.E.S.)
Adapting California’s water system to warm vs. dry climates

This paper explores the independent and combined effects of changes in temperature and runoff volume on California’s water supply and potential water management adaptations. Least-cost water supply system adaptation is explored for two climate scenarios: 1) warmer-drier conditions, and 2) warmer conditions without change in total runoff, using the CALVIN economic-engineering optimization model of California’s intertied water supply system for 2050 water demands. The warm-dry hydrology was developed from downscaled effects of the GFDL CM2.1 (A2 emissions scenario) global climate model for a 30-year period centered at 2085. The warm-only scenario was developed from the warm-dry hydrology, preserving its seasonal runoff shift while maintaining mean annual flows from the historical hydrology. This separates the runoff volume and temperature effects of climate change on water availability and management adaptations. A warmer climate alone reduces water deliveries and increases costs, but much less than a warmer-drier climate, if the water supply system is well managed. Climate changes result in major changes in reservoir operations, cyclic storage of groundwater, and hydropower operations.
Galaxy evolution near groups and clusters: ejected satellites and the spatial extent of environmental quenching

Galaxies that are several virial radii beyond groups/clusters show preferentially quiescent star formation rates (SFR). Using a galaxy group/cluster catalogue from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, together with a cosmologicalN-body simulation, we examine the origin of this environmental quenching beyond the virial radius. Accounting for the clustering of groups/clusters, we show that central galaxies show enhanced SFR quenching out to 2.5 virial radii beyond groups/clusters, and we demonstrate that this extended environmental enhancement can be explained simply by 'ejected' satellite galaxies that orbit beyond their host halo's virial radius. We show that ejected satellites typically orbit for several Gyr beyond the virial radius before falling back in, and thus they compose up to 40 per cent of all central galaxies near groups/clusters. We show that a model in which ejected satellites experience the same SFR quenching as satellites within a host halo can explain essentially all environmental dependence of galaxy quenching. Furthermore, ejected satellites (continue to) lose significant halo mass, an effect that is potentially observable via gravitational lensing. The SFRs/colours and stellar-to-halo masses of ejected satellites highlight the importance of environmental history and present challenges to models of galaxy occupation that ignore such history. © 2014 The Authors Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Royal Astronomical Society.
Optimal composition of real-time systems

Abstract Real-time systems are designed for environments in which the utility of actions is strongly time-dependent. Recent work by Dean, Horvitz and others has shown that anytime algorithms are a useful tool for real-time system design, since they allow computation time to be traded for decision quality. In order to construct complex systems, however, we need to be a ble to compose larger systems from smaller, reusable anytime modules. This paper addresses two basic problems associated with composition: how to ensure the interruptibility of the composed system; and how to allocate computation time optimally among the components. The first problem is solved by a simple and general construction that incurs only a small, constant penalty. The second is solved by an off-line compilation process. We show that the general compilation problem is NP-complete. However, efficient local compilation techniques, working on a single program structure at a time, yield glo bally optimal allocations for a large class of programs. We illustrate these results with two simple applications.
An evaluation model for inservice teacher education

Abstract In this article, the author argues that good evaluation of teacher inservice education programs should: (1) adopt an explicit standard for good inservice teacher education against which any particular inservice program can be judged, (2) value the effects of inservice programs on teachers' needs for professional experiences, (3) expect and appreciate inevitable differences among teachers and schools in efforts to change educational practices, (4) take a more longitudinal perspective of educational change that might occur as a result of inservice education, and (5) expand the venue for the evaluation beyond the inservice experience and into the school, classroom, or wherever change might be manifest.
Abscisic acid relationships in the chill-related dormancy mechanism in apple seeds

Abscisic acid (ABA) levels in seeds from three cultivars of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) which have substantially different chilling requirements were investigated by gas chromatography mass-spectrometry selected ion monitoring (GCMS-SIM) during stratification. The ABA content of dormant unchilled seeds was similar in the three cultivars, suggesting no relationship between the chilling requirement of those seeds and their ABA status. That chilling is not related to ABA changes during stratification was confirmed by warm (20°C) and cold (5°C) stratification experiments. ABA content dropped rapidly and nearly identically under both temperature regimes, but only cold stratification promoted germination. The decline in ABA during stratification was due in large part to leaching from the seed coat and nucellar membrane; the ABA content of the embryo remained nearly constant. The radicle in intact seeds stratified at 5°C began growing 20–30 days after the ABA in the seed coat and nucellar membrane had nearly disappeared. Radicle growth did not occur in unchilled seeds, even though ABA had leached from them as well. It is possible that the leaching of ABA from the seed allows certain promotive forces to develop, but if so, these can develop only at chilling temperatures. Studies were also conducted on 2-trans ABA relationships to apple seed dormancy, but no association was evident.
UROLOGIC DISEASES IN NORTH AMERICA PROJECT: TRENDS IN RESOURCE UTILIZATION FOR URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN

ABSTRACTPurpose: We evaluated the health utilization and economic burden on society of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children using a variety of public and commercial health care databases.Mat...
FTIR Analysis of Chemical Gradients in Thermally Processed Molded Polyurethane Foam

Thermally processed PU foams are examined as a function of processing temperatures (25, 45, 65, and 85°C) at the side, middle, and center of a simple cylindrical mold. The PU foams show both chemical and morphological differences as a function of the processing temperature and radial position within the mold. Thermal degradation of uretoneimine structures, the emergence of carbodiimide structures, and extent of reaction of isocyanate groups are measured using photoacoustic FTIR spectroscopy. Chemical gradients and morphology differences between the side, middle, and center of the molded foam are observed for all processing temperatures. The data indicate that thermal activation at the center of the mold is important for samples regardless of processing temperature. Furthermore, in spite of thermal processing at temperatures well above the decomposition of uretoneimine structures (40°C), chemical gradients remain within the simple molded foams.
Estimating labour supply functions under the rationing constraints of over-and under-employment

In this study explicit parametrizations of labour supply are specified and estimated on a sample of single unattached individuals using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, and a generalized tobit maximum likelihood method which is consistent under the assumption that employed hours are exogenous. The estimation methodology explicitly incorporates information on the existence and degree of over-employment and under-employment. For the cases examined it is found that increased generality in the representation of preference is to be desired when estimating labour supply. A surprising finding is that the labour supply responsiveness of a group of single American women who live alone and have no dependants is on a par with estimates for married women examined in earlier studies, and is significantly higher than estimated for American men.
Adaptive dynamics of articulated bodies: implementation details

Figure 1: Adaptive dynamics of articulated characters. In this complex scene, 200 human characters, represented by 17,800 rigid bodies and 19,000 degrees of freedom, are suddenly pushed away from the camera due to applied forces. Our adaptive dynamics algorithm allows an animator to progressively reduce the number of simulated joints in the characters as their distance to the camera increases, while automatically determining which joints should be animated to best approximate the characters motion. Depending on the total amount of simplification specified by the animator, a potentially significant speed-up can be achieved over typical linear-time forward dynamics algorithms.
In vivo three-dimensional optical coherence tomography and multiphoton microscopy in a mouse model of ovarian neoplasia

ABSTRACT Our goal is to use optical coherence tomography (OCT) and multiphoton microscopy (MPM) to detect early tumor development in a mouse model of ovarian neoplasia. We hope to use information regarding early tumor development to create a diagnostic test for high-risk patients. In this study we collect in vivo images using OCT, second harmonic generation and two-photon excited fluorescence from non-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-dosed and VCD-dosed mice. VCD causes follicular apoptosis (simulating menopaus e) and leads to tumor development. Using OCT and MPM we visualized the ovarian microstructure and were able to see differences between non-VCD-dosed and VCD-dosed animals. This leads us to believe that OCT and MPM may be useful for detecting changes due to early tumor development. Keywords: imaging, fluorescence microscopy, second harmonic generation, two-photon excited fluorescence, ovarian cancer, post-menopausal mouse model, vinylcyclohexene diepoxide 1. INTRODUCTION In the United States there are more than 21,000 new cases of ovarian cancer di agnosed each year. Less than 20% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at a localized stage and once cancer has spread from th e ovary 5-year survival rate is low. However, when found at the localized st age, the 5-year survival rate is 93%
A single population of olfactory sensory neurons mediates an innate avoidance behaviour in Drosophila

All animals exhibit innate behaviours in response to specific sensory stimuli that are likely to result from the activation of developmentally programmed neural circuits. Here we observe that Drosophila exhibit robust avoidance to odours released by stressed flies. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry identifies one component of this ‘Drosophila stress odorant (dSO)’ as CO_2. CO_2 elicits avoidance behaviour, at levels as low as 0.1%. We used two-photon imaging with the Ca^(2+)-sensitive fluorescent protein G-CaMP to map the primary sensory neurons governing avoidance to CO_2. CO_2 activates only a single glomerulus in the antennal lobe, the V glomerulus; moreover, this glomerulus is not activated by any of 26 other odorants tested. Inhibition of synaptic transmission in sensory neurons that innervate the V glomerulus, using a temperature-sensitive Shibire gene (Shi^(ts))^1, blocks the avoidance response to CO_2. Inhibition of synaptic release in the vast majority of other olfactory receptor neurons has no effect on this behaviour. These data demonstrate that the activation of a single population of sensory neurons innervating one glomerulus is responsible for an innate avoidance behaviour in Drosophila.
Epigenetic Influences That Modulate Infant Growth, Development, and Disease

Abstract Significance: Epigenetic modifications are key processes in understanding normal human development and are largely responsible for the myriad cell and tissue types that originate from a single-celled fertilized ovum. The three most common processes involved in bringing about epigenetic changes are DNA methylation, histone modification, and miRNA effects. There are critical periods in the development of the zygote, the embryo, and the fetus where in the organism is most susceptible to epigenetic influences because of normal demethylation and de novo methylation processes that occur in the womb. Recent Advances: A number of epigenetic modifications of normal growth patterns have been recognized, leading to altered development and disease states in the mammalian fetus and infant. ‘Fetal programming’ due to these epigenetic changes has been implicated in pathogenesis of adult-onset disease such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. There may also be transgenerational effects of such ...
Interferon protects neurons in culture infected with vesicular stomatitis and herpes simplex viruses.

Abstract The protective effect of crude rat interferon against infection by vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) was assessed in two culture systems: the PC12 cell line and dissociated rat neurons derived from the superior cervical ganglion (SCG). Interferon was induced in rat embryo cells by inactivated Newcastle disease virus, and its effect was assessed by reduction of viral yields and prevention of viral cytopathology. Interferon protected PC12 cells, both in the presence and absence of nerve growth factor (NGF), against infection by both viruses, although at differing concentrations; protection against VSV was noted at approximately a 10-fold lower interferon concentration than that required to inhibit HSV infection. Dissociated SCG neurons were also protected, but higher interferon concentrations were required. These results demonstrate that the antiviral state can be established in neurons in response to interferon.
Networking, videoconferencing and collaborative environments

Collaborative environments supporting point to point and multipoint videoconferencing, document and application sharing across both local and wide area networks, video on demand (broadcast and playback), and interactive text facilities will be a crucial element for the development of the next generation of HEP experiments by geographically dispersed collaborations. We discuss recent developments in packet videoconferencing and their integration with circuit switched systems over the past two years, with a focus on the needs of HENP and other scientific fields, and the work of the Caltech and LBL groups in collaboration with the HEPNRC in particular. We also briefly review the move towards international standards, developments on the open market, and remark on the likely impact on collaborative research and the key issues for the immediate future.
Optogenetic characterization methods overcome key challenges in synthetic and systems biology

Systems biologists aim to understand how organism-level processes, such as differentiation and multicellular development, are encoded in DNA. Conversely, synthetic biologists aim to program systems-level biological processes, such as engineered tissue growth, by writing artificial DNA sequences. To achieve their goals, these groups have adapted a hierarchical electrical engineering framework that can be applied in the forward direction to design complex biological systems or in the reverse direction to analyze evolved networks. Despite much progress, this framework has been limited by an inability to directly and dynamically characterize biological components in the varied contexts of living cells. Recently, two optogenetic methods for programming custom gene expression and protein localization signals have been developed and used to reveal fundamentally new information about biological components that respond to those signals. This basic dynamic characterization approach will be a major enabling technology in synthetic and systems biology.
Kinetics of ultraviolet and plasma surface modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) probed by sum frequency vibrational spectroscopy.

In numerous applications in microfluidics, cell growth, soft lithography, and molecular imprinting, the surface of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is modified from a hydrophobic methyl-terminated surface to a hydrophilic hydroxyl-terminated surface. In this study, we investigated molecular structural and orientational changes at the PDMS−air interface in response to three commonly used surface modification processes: exposure to long-wavelength ultraviolet light (UV), exposure to short-wavelength UV that generates ozone (UVO), and exposure to oxygen plasma (OP). The surfaces of two PDMS compositions (10:1 and 4:1 of base polymer/curing agent) were probed during modification, using monolayer-sensitive IR + visible sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy, with two different polarization combinations. During PDMS surface modification, the peak intensities of CH3 side groups and CH2 cross-link groups decreased, while peak intensities of Si−OH groups increased. There was no significant change in...
An inexact algorithm for part input sequencing and scheduling with side constraints in FMS

Consider a flexible manufacturing system that produces parts of several types. The FMS consists of several groups of pooled, identical machines, a materials handling system, and a set of nonconsumable resources. Each type of part has its own unique sequence in the execution of the operations. An inexact algorithm is presented that sequences and schedules the input of the parts in the FMS by considering constraints such as machine availabilities and other resources in the machine groups, the availability of the transport units, and so on. Primarily, the goal of the algorithm is to minimize makespan and, secondarily, to minimize turnaround time. Several strategies are discussed, and the results are reported. A real-life problem is described.
Resolution of syringomyelia and Chiari I malformation by ventriculoatrial shunting in a patient with pseudotumor cerebri and a lumboperitoneal shunt.

A sneeze caused acute left arm pain in a 36-year-old woman with a lumboperitoneal (LP) shunt that had been placed 3 years earlier for relief of headaches caused by pseudotumor cerebri. Numbness progressed up the left arm, neck and back of the head and finally into the left face along with weakness of the hand and arm. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography revealed new tonsillar herniation and a large eccentric syrinx extending from C2 to T6. The functioning LP shunt was clamped, and a ventriculoatrial shunt was placed. Pain lessened and motor function improved slightly. MRI revealed complete resolution of the syrinx and resolution of the tonsillar herniation.
Synthesis of 2′,3′-Dideoxy-2′-Fluoro-l-threo-Pentofuranosyl Nucleosides as Potential Antiviral Agents

Abstract A series of 2′,3′-dideoxy-2′-fluoro-L-threo-pentofuranosyl nucleosides has been synthesized as potential antiviral agents. The synthesized compounds were evaluated against HIV-1, HBV, HSV-1, and HSV-2. Among the synthesized analogues, only the cytosine derivative showed moderate antiviral activity against HIV and HBV.
The significance of recent research on occlusion for the teaching and practice of dentistry

Abstract The most important concepts that have evolved from recent research on occlusion have been reviewed in this article and a concept of the “ideal” versus a “normal” occlusion has been suggested. Although we do not by any means have a complete understanding of occlusion, a comprehensive scientific foundation exists for a broad application of the general principles of occlusion to the teaching and practice of dentistry in all of its various branches or specialties. Recent research on occlusion has allowed the development of a dynamic functional concept of occlusion. Now efforts should be applied also to teaching and implementation of this scientifically well founded concept in the practice of dentistry.
The adsorption of CO, O2, and H2 on Pt(100)-(5 × 20)

Abstract The adsorption/desorption characteristics of CO, O 2 , and H 2 on the Pt(100)-(5 × 20) surface were examined using flash desorption spectroscopy. Subsequent to adsorption at 300 K, CO desorbed from the (5×20) surface in three peaks with binding energies of 28, 31.6 and 33 kcal gmol −1 . These states formed differently from those following adsorption on the Pt(100)-(1 × 1) surface, suggesting structural effects on adsorption. Oxygen could be readily adsorbed on the (5×20) surface at temperatures above 500 K and high O 2 fluxes up to coverages of 2 3 of a monolayer with a net sticking probability to ssaturation of ⩾ 10 −3 . Oxygen adsorption reconstructed the (5 × 20) surface, and several ordered LEED patterns were observed. Upon heating, oxygen desorbed from the surface in two peaks at 676 and 709 K; the lower temperature peak exhibited atrractive lateral interactions evidenced by autocatalytic desorption kinetics. Hydrogen was also found to reconstruct the (5 × 20) surface to the (1 × 1) structure, provided adsorption was performed at 200 K. For all three species, CO, O 2 , and H 2 , the surface returned to the (5 × 20) structure only after the adsorbates were completely desorbed from the surface.
The effect of a magnetic field on discrete and continuum CS2 fluorescence

Abstract The fluorescence of CS 2 vapor, excited by a nitrogen laser, consists of discrete bands superimposed upon a apparent continuum. The bands are progressions from an initially excited T 1 A 2 vibronic level, while the continuum appears to arise subsequent to collisional and possibly intramolecular relaxation processes. Here it is seen that an 18 kG magnetic field quenches 75% of the discrete fluorescence, but that the discrete lifetime is unaffected. This discrete quenching is interpreted as Zeeman detuning of the exciting and absorbing lines. Also, the continuum is partially quenched by the 18 kG field. At 340 mTorr 20% of the continuum fluorescence is quenched. The percent quenched decreases with decreasing CS 2 pressure. Below 25 mTorr no continuum quenching is observed. The field reduces the rate at which collisions enhance continuum formation.
Preoperative Risk Factors and Radiographic Findings Predictive of Laparoscopic Conversion to Open Procedures in Crohn’s Disease

Laparoscopy is accepted as a standard surgical approach for Crohn’s disease. However, the rate of conversion is high, ranging from 15 to 70 % depending on the population. There are also concerns that conversion results in worsened outcomes versus an initial open procedure. This study evaluated preoperative radiographic findings to determine who is at increased risk of conversion and may therefore benefit from an initial open approach. A case-matched study included patients from 2004 to 2013 with preoperative CTE/MRE who underwent laparoscopic surgery converted to an open approach, and compared them to laparoscopically completed controls with similar age, same surgeon, and number of previous abdominal operations. Studies were reviewed by two blinded radiologists. Variables included abdominal AP diameter, amount of subcutaneous fat, peritoneal versus pelvic location of disease (greater or lesser hemipelvis or abdomen), intestinal location of disease (colon, TI, ileum, jejunum), and presence, length, and location of strictures, simple or complex fistula, phlegmon, or abscess. Conditional logistic regression evaluated relationships between radiographic variables and conversion. Twenty-seven patients meeting study criteria were compared with 81 controls. A negative association between conversion and disease in the left lesser pelvis was found (p = 0.019) and neared significance for left abdomen (p = 0.08). Positive correlations were found with pelvic fistulas (p = 0.003), complex fistulas (p = 0.017), and pelvic abscesses (p = 0.009) and neared significance for Society of Abdominal Radiology classification (p = 0.058). Preoperative imaging in patients with Crohn’s disease can help in selecting the most suitable cases to approach laparoscopically and reduce conversion rates and should be evaluated in conjunction with other preoperative factors.
Femoral Arterial and Venous Catheterization for Blood Sampling, Drug Administration and Conscious Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Measurements

In multiple fields of study, access to the circulatory system in laboratory studies is necessary. Pharmacological studies in rats using chronically implanted catheters permit a researcher to effectively and humanely administer substances, perform repeated blood sampling and assists in conscious direct measurements of blood pressure and heart rate. Once the catheter is implanted long-term sampling is possible. Patency and catheter life depends on multiple factors including the lock solution used, flushing regimen and catheter material. This video will demonstrate the methodology of femoral artery and venous catheterization of the rat. In addition the video will demonstrate the use of the femoral venous and arterial catheters for blood sampling, drug administration and use of the arterial catheter in taking measurements of blood pressure and heart rate in a conscious freely-moving rat. A tether and harness attached to a swivel system will allow the animal to be housed and have samples taken by the researcher with minimal disruption to the animal. To maintain patency of the catheter, careful daily maintenance of the catheter is required using lock solution (100 U/ml heparinized saline), machine-ground blunt tip syringe needles and the use of syringe filters to minimize potential contamination. With careful aseptic surgical techniques, proper catheter materials and careful catheter maintenance techniques, it is possible to sustain patent catheters and healthy animals for long periods of time (several weeks).
Nitric Oxide Emissions from Soybean Leaves during in Vivo Nitrate Reductase Assays

Recent work identified acetaldehyde oxime as the predominant product purged by inert gases from anaerobic in vivo nitrate reductase (NR) assays of soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) leaves. Another recent study supported earlier research findings which identified the primary product evolved from soybean leaves as nitric oxide (NO). This paper provides evidence that eliminates acetaldehyde oxime and confirms that NO is the primary nitrogenous product purged from the in vivo NR assay system. A portion of the evidence is based on the high water solubility of acetaldehyde oxime. Other evidence presented is the failure by chemical and spectrophotometric means to detect oximes in gases emitted in the purging of the reaction medium or in the leaf tissues. The gaseous product from the in vivo NR assay system reacted identically to NO standards and did not resemble acetaldehyde oxime standards. It was concluded that the predominant N product within the leaves was nitrite and that the predominant gaseous N product evolved from the assay was NO.
Using preoperative albumin levels as a surrogate marker for outcomes after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer.

Objective To evaluate preoperative albumin levels as a marker for comparing survival outcomes after cystectomy in patients with bladder cancer. Materials and Methods We performed a retrospective record review using our bladder cancer database of 238 patients from 2004 to 2011. Of these, we included 187 patients with sufficient data for analysis, aged 35 years or older, who survived to undergo cystectomy. Serum albumin levels were routinely checked the day before cystectomy. Overall survival and cancer-specific survival by albumin levels were compared using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression models. Complication rates between albumin groups were compared by a 2-sample test of proportions. Results Thirty-one patients (16.5%) were in the low-albumin cohort (defined as albumin P = .04) and cancer-specific survival was 57% and 72% (hazard ratio, 1.57; P = .22) in the low- and normal-albumin groups, respectively. Overall complication rates were significantly higher in the cohort with low albumin than in those with normal albumin (87% vs 65%; P = .014). Conclusion Our single-institution retrospective study demonstrates that patients with low preoperative albumin levels had an increased overall mortality and cancer-specific mortality risk than those with normal albumin levels. Albumin may therefore be a reflection of disease state as well as nutritional status.
Ultrasound Cardiography in the Diagnosis of Left Atrial Thrombus

Layers or clusters of echoes located posterior to the echo of the mitral valve leaflet have been considered to be suggestive of left atrial thrombus. However, in two of five patients with characteristic echo-layering the left atrium was found to be free of thrombi. It is concluded that present methods of ultrasound cardiography are not reliable in the diagnosis of left atrial thrombi.
Giant Pacemaker Spikes: An Electrocardiographic Artifact

The size and orientation of the spikes produced by a pacemaker are often used by clinicians as an index of the pacemaker's function. Following implantation, the pacemaker spikes ordinarily remain constant in size; alterations suggest electrical or mechanical malfunction. We describe a patient in whom giant spikes from a pacemaker were recorded on a digital electrocardiograph shortly after implantation. An electrocardiogram taken the following day, using an analog machine, showed marked diminution in the pacemaker spike. Because of a different type of signal processing, digital electrocardiographs show much larger spikes from pacemakers than do analog machines.
Juvenile dispersal, limited breeding sites, and the dynamics of metapopulations

Abstract Demographic models of metapopulations show a wide range of outcomes depending upon life history and dispersal parameters. In this paper we analyze metapopulations consisting of demographically viable (source) and demographically non-viable (sink) subpopulations. Our analysis identifies conditions under which intrinsic dispersal may have positive, negative, or no effect on metapopulation size. While genetically based dispersal behavior might have selective advantages at the level of the individual, it may become a liability when habitat quality deteriorates. We describe the effects of limited breeding opportunities in source and sink populations. Under a wide range of conditions, sink populations may have a positive influence on metapopulation size, but a point is reached where the metapopulation is limited solely by production in the source habitats. The complexity of these dynamics suggests that habitat-specific or patch-specific demographic variables are needed in order to understand population dynamics in heterogeneous landscapes.
Simultaneous measurement of four testicular °4-3-ketosteroids by isocratic high-performance liquid chromatography with on-line ultraviolet absorbance detection

A method is described for the simultaneous measurement of testosterone, androstenedione, 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and progesterone in venous effluent from in vitro perfused rat testes. The assay uses a non-radioisotopic internal standard (11 beta-hydroxyandrostenedione), isocratic high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and UV absorbance detection at 240 nm. Either of two isocratic HPLC systems described in this report (tetrahydrofuran-methanol-water, 16:28:56; methanol-acetonitrile-water, 9:36:55; v/v/v) may be used, and assay specificity is the same in each. The separation and measurement of all four steroids are completed in 25 min. Sensitivity of the method is 10 ng for testosterone, androstenedione and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and 25 ng for progesterone. The linear range of the assay extends through 1600 ng which is the upper amount of each steroid tested. Average inter-assay coefficient of variation was 3.3% and average intra-assay coefficient of variation was 3.6%. This rapid, specific and reliable method requires minimal sample preparation and may be performed by inexperienced personnel.
Laparoscopic Decapsulation of Congenital Splenic Cysts: A Step Forward in Splenic Preservation

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of laparoscopic decapsulation in the management of congenital splenic cysts in children. Methods Patients who presented over the last decade with congenital splenic cysts and were treated with laparoscopic decapsulation were reviewed retrospectively. The authors performed 4 procedures in 3 patients aged 10, 11 (and later 13), and 13 years. In all cases there was progressive enlargement of a single cyst, which lay in the upper pole of the spleen in 3 instances and in the lower pole in the fourth. Pneumoperitoneum was induced using the Veress needle technique, and 3 or 4 ports were utilized. Cysts were aspirated initially before marsupialization with excision of around two thirds of the cyst wall. Both endoshears and the harmonic scalpel were used with good hemostatic effect. Results All patients had a good outcome with cyst resolution on long-term follow-up using serial ultrasound scanning. The first patient (in 1993) remained 3 days as an in patient postoperatively, and the others stayed overnight only. One patient had a new cyst near the first 30 months after the initial procedure. This again was dealt with laparoscopically, with patient discharge the following day. There were no complications in the short or long term. Histology in all cases confirmed a simple epithelial cyst. Median follow-up was 2 years (range, 6 months to 8 years). Conclusions Our experience shows that laparoscopic decapsulation is an effective means of managing congenital splenic cysts and that both harmonic scalpel and endoshears are satisfactory dissecting instruments. Extensive marsupialization is probably unnecessary in these larger cysts, because long-term follow-up has shown no increased risk of recurrence after leaving a significant proportion of the cyst wall behind. This approach helps avoid major surgery in these cases.
Characterization of a brain particulate bound form of creatine kinase.

Abstract A bound form of creatine kinase associated with brain particulate was characterized by isoelectric focusing, antigenicity and chromatography and compared to muscle (MM), brain (BB), and heart mitochondrial isoenzymes. On partial purification and isoelectric focusing, the solubilized enzyme has a pl of 7.3, similar to the pl of muscle creatine kinase MM, pl 6.8, but different from brain creatine kinase BB, which precipitates on isoelectric focusing in sucrose or glycerol stabilized media at its calculated pl of 5.6. Gel filtration chromatography of deoxycholate solubilized particulate creatine kinase on Sephadex Gl50 reveals an estimated molecular weight of approximately 80,000 daltons. The brain particulate enzyme is antigenically distinct from both muscle and rat heart mitochondrial creatine kinase isoenzymes but has antigenic similarity with soluble cytoplasmic brain BB. The situation may be analogous to that found with rat heart mitochondria and rat heart cytoplasmic isoenzymes which we have shown to exhibit antigenic similarity even though differences in electrophoretic and amino acid composition have been demonstrated; however, the confident determination that the particulate enzyme is a separate isoenzyme will have to await amino acid analysis.
Nucleotide Sequences of the -proA and ProB Genes of Treponema pallidum, the Syphilis Agent

The nucleotide sequences of the putative proA and proB genes of Treponema pallidum were determined. The pro A gene is 1287 nucleotides long and encodes a 428 amino acid protein with a predicted Mr of 46.6 kDa. The proB gene is 891 nucleotides long and encodes a 296 amino acid protein with a predicted Mr of 31.3 kDa. The deduced amino acid sequences of the treponemal ProA and ProB proteins have a high degree of homology to the amino acid sequences of several bacterial ProA and ProB proteins. The order of the T. pallidum pro genes (proA/proB) is unique in comparison to the order of these genes in other bacteria. The identification of the putative proA and proB genes in T. pallidum, coupled with the previous identification of the proC gene, strongly suggests that this fastidious spirochete is capable of proline biosynthesis.Cystatin A is a cysteine proteinase inhibitor with a molecular mass of 11 kDa, and is located mainly in the keratohyaline granules of the stratum granulosum and the cornified envelope of ...
Function and Differential Regulation of the α6 Integrin Isoforms during Parietal Endoderm Differentiation

Abstract F9 embryonal carcinoma cells treated with retinoic acid differentiate in monolayer into parietal endoderm (PE) or in suspension into embryoid bodies with an outer layer of visceral endoderm (VE) surrounding a core of largely undifferentiated cells. Previous reports have shown that cell-extracellular matrix interactions mediated by the β1 integrins play a critical role in the differentiation and migration of PE. In the present study we investigated the pattern of expression and function of the integrin α6β1 during the differentiation of F9 cells into VE and PE. F9 cells express integrin subunits α3, α6, α6, and β1. Cell adhesion and migration assays demonstrate that α6β1 is the major laminin receptor in undifferentiated F9 cells as well as F9-derived PE cells. However, the amount of α6 protein decreases significantly upon F9 cell differentiation into either VE or PE, as revealed by immunofluorescent staining and immunoprecipitation analysis. In contrast, the amount of steady-state α6 message stays constant before and after F9 cell differentiation, suggesting that the down-regulation of α6β1 occurs post-transcriptionally. In view of previous reports of two α6 isoforms generated by alternative RNA processing, we carried out reverse transcription-PCR analysis and show that, while α6B is the major mRNA isoform before and after F9 cell differentiation, α6A mRNA is weakly expressed in undifferentiated F9 cells and is substantially increased following F9 differentiation into PE. Immunoprecipitations using the isoform-specific antibodies show an increase in α6A and a dramatic decrease in α6B protein following PE differentiation. Pulse-chase experiments indicate that, whereas the stability of α6B protein is unaltered, synthesis of α6B protein is decreased at least threefold following PE differentiation. Further experiments demonstrate that α6A localizes to focal contacts in PE cells. The switch from α6B to α6A and the localization of α6A at focal contacts correlate with the acquisition of PE cell motility, which suggests distinct functions for the two α6 isoforms.
Community support for campus approaches to sustainable energy use: The role of "town-gown" relationships

Abstract Across the United States, universities are grappling with challenges associated with adopting approaches to more sustainable energy use. One approach has been to develop energy-related projects in their local, host communities. Because host communities can play a major role in the successful planning and implementation of these projects, understanding the factors relating to their support is important. Building on research that suggests that procedural fairness is one such key factor, this study examines community members’ support of six approaches a local university could implement to work towards a goal of carbon neutrality. The results of a mail survey ( N =677) found that perceived fairness of campus decision makers was significantly related to community support for the proposed approaches; however, beliefs about the efficacy of the different approaches to address challenges associated with climate change had the strongest relationship with support. The results also suggest that residents prefer changes in the energy infrastructure, such as the development of wind power, over the purchase of carbon offsets. We discuss the results in terms of actions that universities may take to foster community engagement in decision-making for university-sponsored sustainable energy projects.
Atrial septal defect closure in young females by an anterolateral thoracotomy

There are many approaches for closure of atrial septal defects. We used an anterolateral thoracotomy for closure of atrial septal defects in 140 young females for cosmetic considerations. The technique was relatively simple and no extra equipment was needed. The outcome was excellent however breast development will need to be followed up as many of these were pre pubertal children.
Characterization of thermosetting polymer mortars

The behavior of epoxy and polyester mortars were studied under various curing conditions, temperatures, and strain rates. The effect of curing temperatures on the compressive stress–strain relationships of polymers and polymer mortars were also investigated. The properties of interest of the two polymer mortars cured under optimum conditions are the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, compressive modulus, and compressive stress–strain relationship. The compressive strength of polymer mortars are related to the testing temperature and logarithmic strain rate. The compressive modulus and splitting tensile strength of polymer mortars are related to their compressive strength. A new nonlinear constitutive model is proposed to predict the complete compressive stress–strain behavior of epoxy and polyester polymer mortars.