cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural Representation of a Target Auditory Memory in a Cortico-Basal Ganglia Pathway

Vocal learning in songbirds, like speech acquisition in humans, entails a period of sensorimotor integration during which vocalizations are evaluated via auditory feedback and progressively refined to achieve an imitation of memorized vocal sounds. This process requires the brain to compare feedback of current vocal behavior to a memory of target vocal sounds. We report the discovery of two distinct populations of neurons in a cortico-basal ganglia circuit of juvenile songbirds (zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata) during vocal learning: (1) one in which neurons are selectively tuned to memorized sounds and (2) another in which neurons are selectively tuned to self-produced vocalizations. These results suggest that neurons tuned to learned vocal sounds encode a memory of those target sounds, whereas neurons tuned to self-produced vocalizations encode a representation of current vocal sounds. The presence of neurons tuned to memorized sounds is limited to early stages of sensorimotor integration: after learning, the incidence of neurons encoding memorized vocal sounds was greatly diminished. In contrast to this circuit, neurons known to drive vocal behavior through a parallel cortico-basal ganglia pathway show little selective tuning until late in learning. One interpretation of these data is that representations of current and target vocal sounds in the shell circuit are used to compare ongoing patterns of vocal feedback to memorized sounds, whereas the parallel core circuit has a motor-related role in learning. Such a functional subdivision is similar to mammalian cortico-basal ganglia pathways in which associative-limbic circuits mediate goal-directed responses, whereas sensorimotor circuits support motor aspects of learning.
Testis size variation in frogs: testing the alternatives

While sperm competition may be a major factor affecting relative testis size in vertebrates as a whole, additional hypotheses have not been given much attention in frogs. This is important because sperm competition is relatively uncommon in frogs and relative testis size varies in frogs that do not have multiple-male breeding systems. This paper tests two additional hypotheses for differences in relative testis size among frogs: relative clutch size (number of eggs/snout vent length) and androgen level. Testis size was measured in 90 species of frogs belonging to five families. Relative testis size was found to be positively correlated with relative clutch size in species that lack sperm competition. Mean androgen levels of species also positively covaried with relative testis size. However, there was no correlation between relative testis size and level of male agonistic behavior among species, despite other work indicating that testosterone levels are positively correlated with agonistic behavior in at least some species. These findings suggest that a number of factors in addition to sperm competition are important in the evolution of testis size in male frogs.
Pyrimidine metabolism in Giardia lamblia trophozoites

The pyrimidine metabolism of Giardia lamblia trophozoites (Portland I strain) was studied using whole trophozoites and trophozoite homogenates. Pyrimidines and pyrimidine nucleosides were readily incorporated into nucleic acids. Orotic and aspartic acid incorporations were below the level of detection. Enzymes of the pyrimidine salvage pathway (i.e., thymidine and uridine phosphorylases and thymidine and uridine kinases) were detected in trophozoite homogenates, but the activities of de novo pyrimidine synthesis enzymes (i.e., carbamoyl-phosphate synthase, aspartate transcarbamoylase, dihydroorotase and dihydroorotate dehydrogenase) were below the level of detection in these same homogenates. The evidence presented supports the conclusion that G. lamblia trophozoites appear incapable of synthesizing pyrimidines de novo but are capable of salvaging preformed pyrimidines and pyrimidine nucleosides from the growth medium and the enzymes of this pyrimidine salvage pathway are not organelle associated.
CORR Insights: Orthopaedic Residency Applications Increase After Implementation of 80-hour Workweek

This CORR Insights™ is a commentary on the article “Orthopaedic Residency Applications Increase After Implementation of 80-hour Workweek” by Anakwenze et al. available at DOI 10.1007/s11999-013-2785-1.
The effect of Re, S, and Cl on the deactivation of Ptγ-Al2O3 reforming catalysts

The effects upon n-hexane (nC{sub 6}) conversion and catalyst deactivation caused by adding Re, S, and Cl to Pt/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and also by varying the Pt and Re interaction, were studied. The nC{sub 6} reaction was studied at atmospheric pressure, 400 C, and H{sub 2}/nC{sub 6} = 9. The amount of carbon and hydrogen deposited on the catalyst during reaction was determined by temperature-programmed oxidation with an on-line mass spectrometer. Re addition to Pt/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} increases the rate of deactivation, but lowers the amount of C retained on the catalyst. S addition increases activity maintenance, in addition to lowering the amount of C. Most remarkably, the H/C ratio of the carbonaceous layer is much higher for presulfided samples. Cl{sup {minus}} increases the amount on the support relative to that on the metal. The results are consistent with a model assuming that S is preferential chemisorbed on Re sites in bimetallic PtRe particles. This S divides the PtRe surface into small Pt ensembles. Consequently, hydrogenolysis activity is suppressed, and reorganization of carbonaceous overlayers into pseudo-graphitic entities that are detrimental to catalytic activity is impeded.
An Online Needs Assessment of a Virtual Community: What Men Who Use the Internet to Seek Sex with Men Want in Internet-Based HIV Prevention

As part of a study to develop effective Internet-based HIV prevention interventions for Men who use the Internet to seek Sex with Men (MISM), we sought information from the target population on; (a) acceptability of sexually explicit media; (b) interest in specific content areas; and (c) identification of credible sources of information. A cross-sectional stratified Internet-based survey design was employed. Between September and November 2005, we recruited 2,716 MISM through Gay.com stratified across race/ethnicity to ensure adequate racial/ethnic diversity. Sixteen Likert-type items assessed acceptability of sexual explicitness, 24 items identified topics for inclusion, and two assessed sources of information. There was near universal acceptability for highly sexually explicit education. Over 75% reported high interest in 10 sexual health topics. HIV positive MISM and MISM engaged in unprotected anal sex with multiple male partners reported significantly less interest in HIV prevention specific content. Differences across age, race/ethnicity and education were identified. Idiosyncratic searches and gay sites were frequently cited sources of information; however blogs, government, and media sites were not. It is acceptable for web-based HIV prevention for MISM to be highly sexually explicit and to provide detailed content relevant to men's sexual health. Since demographic differences in acceptability and content were minor, it is appropriate for interventions to target across demographics. Interventions to re-engage men engaging in high risk and HIV + MISM should be considered. Leading health agencies should review whether their web information is retrievable, credible and useful to those most at risk.
Procedure for the study of acidic calcium phosphate precursor phases in enamel mineral formation.

Considerable evidence suggests that an acidic calcium phosphate, such as octacalcium phosphate (OCP) or brushite, is involved as a precursor in enamel and other hard tissue formation. Additionally, there is in vitro evidence suggesting that fluoride accelerates and magnesium inhibits the hydrolysis of OCP to hydroxyapatite (OHAp). As the amount of OCP or brushite in enamel cannot be measured directly in the presence of an excess of hydroxyapatite, a procedure was developed that allows for their indirect in vivo quantification as pyrophosphate. This permits study of the effects of fluoride and magnesium ions on enamel mineral synthesis. Rat incisor calcium phosphate was labeled by intraperitoneal injection of NaH232PO4. The rats were then subjected to various fluoride and magnesium treatments with subcutaneous implanted osmotic pumps. They were then killed at predetermined intervals; the nascent sections of the incisors were collected, cleaned, and pyrolyzed at 500°C for 48 hours to convert acidic calcium phosphates to calcium pyrophosphate; the pyrophosphate was separated from orthophosphate by anion-exchange chromatography; and the resulting fractions were counted by liquid scintillation spectrometry. The activities of the pyro- and orthophosphate fractions were used to calculate the amount of acidic calcium phosphate present in the nascent mineral. The results demonstrated that the percentage of radioactive pyrophosphate in nascent incisors decreased with time, with increasing serum F- concentration, and with decreasing serum magnesium content. The technique described here should prove to be a powerful new tool for studying the effects of various agents on biological mineral formation.
Embedded system for sensor communication and security

Inter-integrated circuit mode (I2C) software is used to communicate between sensors and on embedded control system utilising PIC182585 MPLAB hardware. These sensors were built as part of a system on-board that includes sensors, a Q2 microcontroller and interface circuitry. The hardware includes a PIC18 processor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) chip and peripherals. The FPGA chip is used to interface the processor with the peripherals operating at the same clock speed. This hardware design features high-level integration, reliability, high precision and high-speed communications. The system was demonstrated using temperature and CO 2 sensors. The overall system was implemented and successfully tested. The response of the multi-sensor system was agreeable with the design parameters. The system is expandable to include other sensors such as light and pressure sensors. Monitoring threshold values should add to the security features of the integrated communication system. The use of a signature detection algorithm to determine threatening situation and/or intrusion within the sittings are discussed as a potential application for home land security. The integrated system features low-power consumption (utilising the sleeping mode of the processors), high-speed communications, security and flexibility to expansion.
Measuring local health care system development for public policy purposes; an exploratory analysis of physicians and hospitals.

Abstract This paper attempts to measure local health care development for public policy purposes using a systems approach. The tools of multivariate analysis including principal components analysis and Guttman Scale techniques are used to construct indices of the development of local systems of medical specialists and of hospital facilities. The data measuring these phenomena were gathered for 243 United States Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas and for a set of 300 Eastern U.S. Counties. These structural measures of system development were compared and contrasted to the usual aggregate ratio measures and found preferable. The public policy implication of this research are presented.
Relationship Characteristics and Depression among Fathers with Newborns

Depression may interfere with fathers’ ability to effectively fulfill parenting roles, but little is known about the mental health of fathers with newborns. This study examines the prevalence and determinants of depression among fathers with newborns. The results show that married fathers have the lowest rate of depression (6.6 percent), followed by cohabiting (8.7 percent), romantically involved (11.9 percent), and not involved (19.9 percent) fathers. The quality of the relationship with the mother and fathers’ substance use problems are important predictors of fathers’ depression. Mental health and welfare policy implications are discussed.
Biot’s Paper and Arago’s Plates

Abstract Francois Arago and Jean‐Baptiste Biot, two of the physicists most involved in early photography, mobilized this new technology for their ongoing debates about the proper boundaries of the public in France. Each threw his weight behind one of the competing photographic processes, Arago supporting daguerrian silver plates and Biot favoring paper soaked in silver solution. For both men, disagreement at the level of materials and techniques was further bound up with disagreement about what kind of visual evidence the photograph was and who was capable of understanding it. Biot argued for a severely restricted community of photographic practitioners. His papers, he claimed, revealed an invisible world of chemical radiation accessible only to those who understood the chemistry involved. Arago’s reliance on resemblance, on the other hand, permitted him to present daguerreotype plates as a form of representation available to all, even incorporating them into his campaign for universal male suffrage.
Computer studies of planetary-type evolution

Abstract In this paper a new, computer approach to the study of the interactions of particles with differing masses is applied to the study of planetary type evolution. The formulation contains an inherent self-reorganization property in which particles self-stratify in accordance with their masses. Computer examples are described and discussed.
Increased adiposity in animals due to a human virus.

BACKGROUND: Four animal models of virus-induced obesity including adiposity induced by an avian adenovirus have been described previously. This is the first report of adiposity induced in animals by a human virus. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the adiposity promoting effect of a human adenovirus (Ad-36) in two different animal models. DESIGN: Due to the novel nature of the findings we replicated the experiments using a chicken model three times and a mammal model once. In four separate experiments, chickens and mice were inoculated with human adenovirus Ad-36. Weight matched groups inoculated with tissue culture media were used as non-infected controls in each experiment. Ad-36 inoculated and uninfected control groups were housed in separate rooms under biosafety level 2 or better containment. The first experiment included an additional weight matched group of chickens that was inoculated with CELO (chick embryo lethal orphan virus), an avian adenovirus. Food intakes and body weights were measured weekly. At the time of sacrifice blood was drawn and visceral fat was carefully separated and weighed. Total body fat was determined by chemical extraction of carcass fat. RESULTS: Animals inoculated with Ad-36 developed a syndrome of increased adipose tissue and paradoxically low levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides. This syndrome was not seen in chickens inoculated with CELO virus. Sections of the brain and hypothalamus of Ad-36 inoculated animals did not show any overt histopathological changes. Ad-36 DNA could be detected in adipose tissue, but not skeletal muscles of randomly selected animals for as long as 16 weeks after Ad-36 inoculation. CONCLUSIONS: Data from these animal models suggest that the role of viral disease in the etiology of human obesity must be considered.
Holographic strain analysis: an experimental implementation of the fringe-vector theory

The fringe-vector theory of holographic strain analysis was applied experimentally to determine strain and rotation tensors of rotated and deformed objects. One object was supported in a specially designed positioner, and the other was heated internally with a temperature controlled device. The rigid body motions and deformations were determined directly from the fringes that were observed on the surface of the object. This was done by taking photographs of the virtual image of the object from several different directions through the same hologram; the photographs were digitized manually, and the parameters obtained were, in turn, analyzed using a computer. The strains and rotations determined experimentally from holograms compared satisfactorily with the theoretical ones.
Multiple Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Isoforms Are Present in Platelets

Abstract Platelets are activated by an increase in cytosolic Ca2+, and a portion of this increase is derived from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3)-mediated Ca2+release from internal stores via the InsP3receptor. There is some uncertainty concerning the localization of the InsP3receptor within platelets, and experiments were designed to help resolve this question. [3H]InsP3binding to unphosphorylated and phosphorylated platelet internal membranes revealed both low and high affinity InsP3binding sites, indicating the presence of more than one isoform of InsP3receptor within the internal membranes. Phosphorylation did not significantly affect InsP3binding. In contrast, a single class of high affinity sites was observed in plasma membranes indicating only one type of InsP3receptor. Western blotting of platelet internal and plasma membranes with antibodies against the three major InsP3receptor isoforms revealed that the internal membranes contain both type 1 and type 2 InsP3receptors while the plasma membrane contains only InsP3receptor type 2.
SU-E-P-08: Alarming Range of Seed Activities Ordered for I-125 Plaque Brachytherapy

Purpose: To investigate the variation in I-125 seed activities ordered by various clinics for their plaque brachytherapy cases under a standardized set of assumptions. Methods: A majority of the plaque programs in North America were contacted and a survey was designed to give a few standardized cases to allow inter-comparison of seed activities ordered. Tumor dose, treatment duration, number of seeds, plaque, and tumor apex were held constant in order to reveal differences in prescription point, seed type, and seed activity. Results: While the survey is presently underway, preliminary results show alarmingly wide variations between centers. Differences up to 45% have been found with 15% differences being common. Conclusion: Though knowledge of the TG-43 dose calculation formalism is common, a number of factors in the field of plaque brachytherapy lead to alarming differences in activity of I-125 seeds being ordered for a given tumor. Knowledge of the present reality of widely varying treatment activities, and thus doses to tumor and normal structures, should serve as motivation for centers involved in this modality to review their programs with others in the community and share their experiences.
Development of structural hierarchy during uniaxial drawing of PEEK/PEI blends from amorphous precursors

Abstract When poly(ether ether ketone)/poly(ether imide) (PEEK/PEI) blends are drawn in their rubbery region, prior to the critical draw ratio, they remain amorphous. Subsequent to the onset of strain hardening, the stress rises rapidly as a result of strain-induced crystallization of the chains highly oriented in the direction of strain. It is during this stage of deformation process that a highly structured physical network is formed where oriented crystallites act as nodes in the network structure . The wide angle X-ray scattering data indicate that chains in these ‘nodes’ are highly oriented and the three dimensional crystalline lattice is not well established due to poor axial registry of these highly oriented chains. This is evidenced by the absence of off-equatorial peaks. During this period, the effectiveness of drawing arises from the existence of the tie chains aligned in the direction of draw and forming the net between the crystallites. PEI, though a stiff and bulky chain, is found to delay the oriented crystallization rate of PEEK, but has little effect on its crystalline orientation in the composition range investigated.
Imaging Localized Astrocyte ATP Release with Firefly Luciferase Beads Attached to the Cell Surface

Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) functions as a signaling molecule in many cell regulation processes. The traditional firefly luciferase assays measure the ATP release as a signal increase with time using a luminometer. Recently, advanced cell imaging techniques using charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras have enabled two-dimensional (2D) high-resolution detection providing both spatial and temporal information. Real-time imaging of ATP release from astrocyte cells has been reported. However, the observed chemiluminescence propagation wave reflects both ATP release and diffusion in the extracellular bulk solution. The dynamic ATP efflux at the cell surface could not be accurately measured. Hence, we constructed biotinylated fused firefly luciferase proteins, immobilized the proteins on 1 microm beads, and attached the beads to the cell surface to detect ATP release from mechanically stimulated astrocyte cells. This novel detection method enables us to monitor the actual ATP concentration at the surface of single live cells. The localized ATP release was found to be prominent but lasted only <20 s, which is very different from the results obtained by free firefly luciferase detection.
The Larval Development of Polyonyx Quadriungulatus Glassell and Pachycheles Rudis Stimpson (Decapoda, Porcellanidae) Cultured in the Laboratory

Polyonyx quadriungulatus et Pachycheles rudis (Decapodes, Porcellanidae) ont ete eleves au laboratoire, en partant de l'oeuf jusqu'au stade post-larvaire. Le developpement larvaire de chaque espece comprend deux stades zoe. La description detaillee des larves et de leurs appendices fonctionnels souligne particulierement l'exceptionnel accroissement de taille des appendices thoraciques, de la 3eme paire de maxillipedes et des pleopodes en dehors des mues. Les post-larves, qui ressemblent deja a l'adulte, sont figurees. Les larves sont comparees a celles des quelques especes de la famille ou elles ont deja ete identifiees et decrites.
Variational stability and the form of the Schwinger multichannel variational principle.

We derive the Schwinger multichannel variational principle [K. Takatsuka and V. McKoy, Phys. Rev. A 23, 2352 (1981); 30, 1734 (1984)] by a method that emphasizes the question of variational stability. The present approach is in some respects more direct than the original method and serves to clarify the role of a certain parameter that occurs in the formulation.
Parenthood and trajectories of change in body weight over the life course

Scholars call for greater attention to social contexts that promote and deter risk factors for health. Parenthood transforms social contexts in a myriad of ways that may influence long-term patterns of weight gain. Life course features of parenthood such as age at first birth, parity, and living with a minor child may further influence weight gain. Moreover, the social and biological features of parenthood vary in systematic ways for women and men, raising questions about how social contexts might differentially affect weight patterns by gender. We consider how parenthood influences trajectories of change in body weight over a fifteen year period (from 1986 to 2001) with growth curve analysis of data from the Americans' Changing Lives Survey, conducted with adults aged 24 and older in the contiguous United States (N = 3617). Findings suggest that parents gain weight more rapidly than the childless throughout the study period and that this weight gain occurs for both men and women. Men and women who have their first child earlier or later than about age 27 have accelerated weight gain, living with a minor child is associated with heavier weight for men than women, and parity is associated with greater weight gain for women than men. We conclude that parenthood contributes to a long term, cumulative process of weight gain for American women and men but life course factors that accelerate this process may differ by gender.
Implications of tiling for performance and design flow

In this paper, we discuss rule-based and model-based tiling methodologies for interconnect layers and their implications for design flows and performance. The addition of these 'dummy' tiling metal features modifies the final physical design and reduces the variation of back-end process parameters. This is a newly developing area of design flow and its importance is increasing with each succeeding semiconductor generation. Along with this development new methodologies and tools need to be introduced to handle time placement post-physical design, as well as efficient methods for representing the resulting large amount of dat. Additionally, the inclusion of tiles may introduce performance-degrading parasitic effects. The situation is complicated by the order of the elements of the design flow: parasitics characterization requires knowledge about the placement of dummy metal times, which takes place after physical design. In this study, we co pare the advantages of having uniform interconnect characteristics to the performance degradation caused by the additional layout parasitics. We also discuss several possible scenarios for the modification of design flows to account for these effects the thereby recover timing and power targets closure. These scenarios depend for their success on the very different length scales of polish and electromagnetic effects. Finally, an analysis of correlations in the parameters that define design corners leads to the new conclusion that the negative effect of increased parasitic loading due to tiling is not as sever as a simple analysis would suggest. This result is due to the fact that the tiling parasitic loading is somewhat compensated for by the improved planarity resulting from tiling, which tightens the process variation-induced spread of metal electrical parameters.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Limnological Studies at High Altitudes in Ladak

IN his studies of the Alpine lakes of Central Europe, Pesta1 has characterised the smaller lakes at the highest altitudes as pan-oligotrophic. Such lakes, despite their small size, show a very high oxygen content in the hypolimnion and have a poorly developed bottom fauna and plankton. Recently, during the work of the Yale North India Expedition under the leadership of Dr. H. de Terra, it has been possible to make limnological studies on a number of lakes in Ladak lying at altitudes between 4,267 m. and 5,274 m. In waters more than 10 m. deep at such altitudes the surface temperature in August and the beginning of September lay between 11.73° C. and 14.19° C, that is within the ranges recorded for the pan-oligotrophic type by Pesta.
The Effects of Mercuric Chloride on Calmodulin-Mediated CA+2 Transport in Rat Brain

We have shown previously that mercuric chloride (HgCl2) inhibits in vitro vasopressin release from the isolated rat neurohypophysis with maximum inhibition occurring with 0.5 mM HgCl2. Associated with the inhibition of hormone release is an increase in45Ca+2 uptake, an increase in cytosolic45Ca42, and a reduction of45Ca+2 accumulation by mitochondria in the intact gland. In the present series of studies, the effect of HgCl2 on calmodulin (CM) function in neural tissue preparations is reported. Mercuric chloiide (0.5 mM) reduced45Ca+2 binding to CM purified from bovine neurohypophyses by 20% and inhibited endogenous CM-stimulated Ca,Mg-ATPase activity from rat brain mitochondria in a dose-dependent fashion. Ca,Mg-ATPase activity was inhibited by 50 and 80% with 0.5 and 5.0 mM HgCl2, respectively. CM-stimulation of Ca,Mg-ATPase activity was inhibited by calmidazolium (CMZ) with maximal inhibition seen with 0.1 mM CMZ. Reversibility of the HgCl2 interaction with CM was demonstrated using CM-stimulated phosphodiesterase (PDEase) activity from rat brain. HgCl2 inhibited both basal and CM-stimulated PDEase activity in a dose-dependent manner with maximum inhibition occurring with 1.0 mM HgCl2. Preexposure of CM to an inhibitory concentration (1.0 mM) of HgCl2 resulted in no loss of stimulatory PDEase enzyme activity. From these results, we conclude that HgCl2 reversibly interferes with4SCa+2 binding to CM and also inhibits CM-regulated Ca+2 pumping enzyme systems in the neurohypophysis. The inhibition of vasopressin release from the intact gland in the presence of HgCl2 thus, may be associated with a disruption of calcium in the neurohypophysis.
Usando Tecnologia da Informação e Mobilização Social para Combater Doenças

Assim como o Ebola, a Sindrome Respiratoria do Oriente Medio, o enterovirus D68 e outras epidemias ameacam a saude das nacoes, as tecnologias de informacao e comunicacao (TIC) combinadas com intervencoes de mobilizacao social estao se tornando armas na guerra contra a doenca. Nos paises onde os profissionais da saude sao escassos, mas a telefonia celular e abundante, e possivel “passar a mensagem adiante” para o publico em geral atraves de TIC, mHealth e rede social. A expressao “difusao viral”, [...]
Nutrition and health for older persons in rural America: a managed care model.

Abstract Health care services and resources for older persons living in rural areas may be highly variable, and integrated service-delivery models are often lacking. This article presents a managed-care model of nutrition risk screening and intervention for older persons in rural areas. Nutrition risk screening was implemented by the Geisinger Health Care System, Danville, Pa, to target all eligible enrollees in a regional Medicare risk program. A single remote clinic site participating in the managed health care system was chosen for further study of a linked screening and case-management effort for undernourished persons. Screening and intervention at the clinic site selected for this study were guided by centralized expertise and resources. Individualized evaluation and intervention plans were developed with the aid of a dietitian and implemented by the clinic case manager. Of the 417 subjects who completed screening at the remote site, 68 met the risk criteria for undernutrition and were selected for case management. Many of the targeted persons received interventions that included evaluations by a physician or physician extender (eg, physician assistant, nurse practitioner) at the clinic and consultations with nutrition, mental health, or social services professionals. Twenty-six of the subjects who took part in the intervention completed a follow-up screening 6 months later. Ten of those persons no longer exhibited risk criteria. This demonstrates the feasibility of a linked screening and case management program for nutrition risk in the managed-care setting. J Am Diet Assoc. 1997; 97: 885-888 .
Classification of amino acid spin systems using PFG HCC(CO)NH-TOCSY with constant-time aliphatic 13C frequency labeling

We have developed a useful strategy for identifying amino acid spin systems and side-chain carbon resonance assignments in small 15N-, 13C-enriched proteins. Multidimensional constant-time pulsed field gradient (PFG) HCC(CO)NH-TOCSY experiments provide side-chain resonance frequency information and establish connectivities between sequential amino acid spin systems. In PFG HCC(CO)NH-TOCSY experiments recorded with a properly tuned constant-time period for frequency labeling of aliphatic 13C resonances, phases of cross peaks provide information that is useful for identifying spin system types. When combined with 13C chemical shift information, these patterns allow identification of the following spin system types: Gly, Ala, Thr, Val, Leu, Ile, Lys, Arg, Pro, long-type (i.e., Gln, Glu and Met), Ser, and AMX-type (i.e., Asp, Asn, Cys, His, Phe, Trp and Tyr).
Are Curriculum Decisions Based on the Evidence? How Social Work Faculty Members Make Choices in Curriculum Decisions

An important step in translating evidence-based practice and empirically supported interventions into large-scale service improvements is to develop an understanding of practitioners' education and training in these practices. This understanding begins with discovering the factors that influence the decision-making process by social work faculty regarding curriculum content for master's level social work programs. This exploratory study uses quantitative and qualitative survey data to examine the decision-making process used by 42 master's level social work programs to select the models of direct practice taught in their master's level social work programs, and whether evidence-based practice and research evidence influences those decisions. We investigate faculty perceptions of curriculum effectiveness and discuss implications of our findings for social work educators making content and organization decisions regarding master's level social work curriculum.
Radial polar histogram: obstacle avoidance and path planning for robotic cognition and motion control

In order to achieve highly accurate motion control and path planning for a mobile robot, an obstacle avoidance algorithm that provided a desired instantaneous turning radius and velocity was generated. This type of obstacle avoidance algorithm, which has been implemented in California State University Northridge's Intelligent Ground Vehicle (IGV), is known as Radial Polar Histogram (RPH). The RPH algorithm utilizes raw data in the form of a polar histogram that is read from a Laser Range Finder (LRF) and a camera. A desired open block is determined from the raw data utilizing a navigational heading and an elliptical approximation. The left and right most radii are determined from the calculated edges of the open block and provide the range of possible radial paths the IGV can travel through. In addition, the calculated obstacle edge positions allow the IGV to recognize complex obstacle arrangements and to slow down accordingly. A radial path optimization function calculates the best radial path between the left and right most radii and is sent to motion control for speed determination. Overall, the RPH algorithm allows the IGV to autonomously travel at average speeds of 3mph while avoiding all obstacles, with a processing time of approximately 10ms.
Solvent extraction of actinides and lanthanides from molten salts

Abstract For the first time, quantitative measurements have been made of distribution coefficients of metal ions between a fused salt phase and an organic phase. The measurements were made at a temperature of 150°C using a LiNO 3 KNO 3 eutectic (m.p. 120°C) and tributyl phosphate (TBP) as the active extractant with a mixture of polyphenyls as the inert diluent. Distribution coefficients were determined for Co(II), Eu(III), Nd(III), Am(III), Cm(III), Np(V), Np(VI) and U(VI), and found to be higher by a factor of ∼10 2 –10 3 as compared with concentrated aqueous nitrate solutions. The number of TBP molecules associated with the complexes M(NO 3 ) p . (TBP) q in the organic phase were found to be the same [except for Co(II)] as those reported for aqueous nitrate system. The effect of Cl − addition to the nitrate melt was to lower the distribution coefficients. The separation factor 3·2 for Am(III)/Cm(III) suggests a possible application to the separation of these two elements.
Separation of amines by l1gand exchange. Part II

Abstract Mixtures of amines can be separated by elution chromatography on cationexchange resins loaded with nickel ions or other cations capable of forming amine complexes. The cations are complexed with ammonia beforehand, and amine molecules exchange with ammonia molecules as ligands. Aqueous ammonia is used as the eluant. The method has proved particularly effective for separating diamines.
Finite element analysis of partly wrinkled membranes

The development of a nonlinear numerical algorithm for the analysis of stresses and displacements in partly wrinkled flat membranes, and its implementation on the SAP VII finite-element code are described. A comparison of numerical results with exact solutions of two benchmark problems reveals excellent agreement, with good convergence of the required iterative procedure. An exact solution of a problem involving axisymmetric deformations of a partly wrinkled shallow curved membrane is also reported.
Early postoperative urinary and sexual function predicts functional recovery 1 year after prostatectomy.

Purpose: Successful treatment of locally confined prostate cancer is defined by postoperative cancer control, continence and potency. The Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) is a validated instrument developed specifically for prostate cancer survivors. The EPIC-Sexual Inventory (EPIC-S) and EPIC-Urinary Inventory (EPIC-UIN) assess sexual and urinary function, respectively. We evaluated the usefulness of urinary and sexual function measured by EPIC at baseline and 3-month followup after prostatectomy to predict functional outcomes 1 year postoperatively.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a prospectively maintained, institutional review board approved database for patients treated with prostatectomy from 2000 to 2009. EPIC scores were acquired preoperatively, and at 3 and 12-month followups. We calculated the likelihood of sexual and urinary recovery at 12 months based on 3-month EPIC-UIN and EPIC-S scores.Results: Patients were treated with open (226) or robotic (235) surgery. ...
Legacies of advantage and disadvantage: the case of teen mothers.

ABSTRACT Objectives: The life trajectories of teen mothers and their children were examined with data from a larger longitudinal study. Design: All 5 waves of the study were designed from the hermeneutic tradition. Sample: Sixteen families began the study in 1988–1989 (Time 1) and were invited to participate in subsequent studies (1993, 1997, 2001, and 2005). Twenty-eight informants participated in the fifth wave of the study (Time 5). Measurement: This analysis capitalized on the diversity of teen mothers' family backgrounds to examine the life chances of mothers and their first-born children as mothers entered their 30s. Three domains are addressed: teen mothers' educational attainment, their social class status, and their oldest child's school progress and sexual activity. Results: Teen mothers' life trajectories reflected legacies of unequal life chances that began in childhood and persisted into their 30s. Mothers with childhood advantages fared better over time than impoverished mothers, and a legacy of advantage contributed to a cushion of safety and opportunity for their teenaged children. Conclusion: The powerful legacy of social class and racial divisions on teen mothers' long-term outcomes challenges the view that teen mothering leads to a downward spiral with negative repercussions for mothers and children.
Silk purse or sow's ear

Infection of human cells by porcine endogenous retrovirus heightens concerns about the safety of xenotransplantation (pages 282–286).
Did NAFTA cause a “giant sucking sound”?

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) passed Congress amidst con-tentious debate in 1993. Detractors argued that it would produce an exodus of jobs while proponents argued that it would create jobs. We examine the economic effects of NAFTA. The evidence indicates that while the employment effects have been small, NAFTA has caused an explosion of trade. This increase in exports and imports has mul-tiplied gains from trade. In addition NAFTA helped Mexico recover quickly from the 1994-1995 peso crisis and provided a political anchor for Mexico's attempts to pri-vatize, deregulate, and liberalize. The resulting growth and stability in Mexico have benefitted the U.S., which shares a 2,000 mile border with Mexico.
Last Reflections of the Editor

Reflection of the editor-in-chief of Marketing Science about the complexity of the editorial and reviewing process.
Effects of age, temperature-season, and breed on blood characteristics of dairy cattle.

Abstract Two hundred twenty four dairy cattle (6 mo to second calving) representing four breeds (169 Holstein, 24 Guernsey, 19 Jersey, 12 Brown Swiss) were used to determine effects of age, temperature-season, and breed on blood characteristics. A total of 1183 blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture in the middle of each temperature-season. Covariate age affected blood profile except for hemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, and albumin. Temperature-season increased or decreased all measures except enzyme creatine phosphokinase, total creatine phosphokinase, calcium, and phosphorus. Years differed for all measures except hemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin. Except for enzyme creatine phosphokinase, total creatine phosphokinase, and phosphorus, breeds differed in other measures. There were interactions between temperature-season and year, temperature-season and breed, and year and breed. Differences among temperature-seasons were not consistent from year to year. Breed differences were not consistent from temperature-season to temperature-season for calcium or protein-bound iodine. Breed differences were not consistent from year to year for glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, total protein, albumin, or calcium.
Pain, disability, and physical therapy in older adults: Issues of patients and pain, practitioners and practice

Pain in older adults is a complex multidimensional (biopsychosocial) problem that is always unpleasant and is frequently associated with physical disability, psychosocial distress, and reduced quality of life. Physical therapists knowledgeable about pain are in an excellent position to identify and manage problems related to pain and pain-related dysfunction for this older population. Unfortunately, although pain is prevalent, complex, and integral to health care, it has not been integral to health care education. Inadequate knowledge has led to inadequate assessment and management. Current evidence shows that optimum pain and disability management is predicated on a sound assessment. Optimal management of the person with pain involves education and activity guided by practitioners knowledgeable about the complexities of pain. Recommendations regarding pain and disability assessment and management by physical therapists are provided.
Radiologist evaluation of an X-ray tube-based diffraction-enhanced imaging prototype using full-thickness breast specimens.

Rationale and Objectives Conventional mammographic image contrast is derived from x-ray absorption, resulting in breast structure visualization due to density gradients that attenuate radiation without distinction between transmitted, scattered, or refracted x-rays. Diffraction-enhanced imaging (DEI) allows for increased contrast with decreased radiation dose compared to conventional mammographic imaging because of monochromatic x-rays, its unique refraction-based contrast mechanism, and excellent scatter rejection. However, a lingering drawback to the clinical translation of DEI has been the requirement for synchrotron radiation. Materials and Methods The authors' laboratory developed a DEI prototype (DEI-PR) using a readily available tungsten x-ray tube source and traditional DEI crystal optics, providing soft tissue images at 60 keV. Images of full-thickness human breast tissue specimens were acquired on synchrotron-based DEI (DEI-SR), DEI-PR, and digital mammographic systems. A panel of expert radiologists evaluated lesion feature visibility and correlation with pathology after receiving training on the interpretation of refraction contrast mammographic images. Results For mammographic features (mass, calcification), no significant differences were detected between the DEI-SR and DEI-PR systems. Benign lesions were perceived as better seen by radiologists using the DEI-SR system than the DEI-PR system at the [111] reflectivity, with generalizations limited by small sample size. No significant differences between DEI-SR and DEI-PR were detected for any other lesion type (atypical, cancer) at either crystal reflectivity. Conclusions Thus, except for benign lesion characterizations, the DEI-PR system's performance was roughly equivalent to that of the traditional DEI system, demonstrating a significant step toward clinical translation of this modality for breast cancer applications.
An organizing center for planar neural excitability

Abstract Noticeable in two-parameter bifurcation diagrams for several neural models is the juxtaposition of cusps and Bogdanov–Takens points. We find parameters for Morris–Lecar and Hodgkin–Huxley models where the two bifurcations merge at a degenerate Bogdanov–Takens-cusp codimension three bifurcation that has been analyzed by Guckenheimer (1986) and Dumortier et al. (1991). This rich singularity has an unfolding as a simple second-order cubic dynamical system which can be used for modeling and analysis. We argue the importance and discuss consequences of this bifurcation as a minimal organizing center for two-dimensional type I excitable membranes.
Formal Theory and the Institutions of Governance

Understanding governance in the world's democracies requires study of the political institutions — the chief executives, the bureaucracies, and the legislatures — most involved in national policymaking. There are many approaches to the study of these institutions. This article examines the potential of an approach which is relatively unfamiliar to most students of governance: the development of formal mathematical theories of political institutions. The costs and benefits of this approach are discussed, various types of formal theories are surveyed, and a variety of possible applications to some central problems of governance are described.
Quadruple Quorum-Sensing Inputs Control Vibrio cholerae Virulence and Maintain System Robustness

Bacteria use quorum sensing (QS) for cell-cell communication to carry out group behaviors. This intercellular signaling process relies on cell density-dependent production and detection of chemical signals called autoinducers (AIs). Vibrio cholerae, the causative agent of cholera, detects two AIs, CAI-1 and AI-2, with two histidine kinases, CqsS and LuxQ, respectively, to control biofilm formation and virulence factor production. At low cell density, these two signal receptors function in parallel to activate the key regulator LuxO, which is essential for virulence of this pathogen. At high cell density, binding of AIs to their respective receptors leads to deactivation of LuxO and repression of virulence factor production. However, mutants lacking CqsS and LuxQ maintain a normal LuxO activation level and remain virulent, suggesting that LuxO is activated by additional, unidentified signaling pathways. Here we show that two other histidine kinases, CqsR (formerly known as VC1831) and VpsS, act upstream in the central QS circuit of V. cholerae to activate LuxO. V. cholerae strains expressing any one of these four receptors are QS proficient and capable of colonizing animal hosts. In contrast, mutants lacking all four receptors are phenotypically identical to LuxO-defective mutants. Importantly, these four functionally redundant receptors act together to prevent premature induction of a QS response caused by signal perturbations. We suggest that the V. cholerae QS circuit is composed of quadruple sensory inputs and has evolved to be refractory to sporadic AI level perturbations.