cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Online Transgender Health Information Seeking: Facilitators, Barriers, and Future Directions

Transgender people face difficulties accessing healthcare from providers, and thus often turn to online sources to seek health information. However, online platforms may not properly support trans health information seeking, and health information found online may be limited in accuracy. To examine how online platforms can best support trans health information seeking, we conducted online focus groups with trans people (n = 26) about their experiences with online health information and their needs and desires for online health information seeking platforms. We found that trans people face both facilitators and barriers to finding accurate, actionable information online. Facilitators include online community discovery, group privacy features, and the dual synchronous and asynchronous nature of online content. Barriers include platform censorship, misinformation, hate speech, and lack of tools to flag inaccurate content. We provide recommendations for how platforms can support trans health information seeking by ensuring that medical information is accurate, accessible, easy to locate, and relevant to a diverse set of trans identities and experiences.
Quantitative analysis of the kinematics and induced aerodynamic loading of individual vortices in vortex-dominated flows: A computation and data-driven approach

Abstract A physics-based data-driven computational framework for the quantitative analysis of vortex kinematics and vortex-induced loads in vortex-dominated problems is presented. Such flows are characterized by the dominant influence of a small number of vortex structures, but the complexity of these flows makes it difficult to conduct a quantitative analysis of this influence at the level of individual vortices. The method presented here combines machine learning-inspired clustering methods with a rigorous mathematical partitioning of aerodynamic loads to enable detailed quantitative analysis of vortex kinematics and vortex-induced aerodynamic loads. We demonstrate the utility of this approach by applying it to an ensemble of 165 distinct Navier-Stokes simulations of flow past a sinusoidally pitching airfoil. Insights enabled by the current methodology include the identification of a period-doubling route to chaos in this flow, and the precise quantification of the role that leading-edge vortices play in driving aeroelastic pitch oscillations.
Does childhood maltreatment or current stress contribute to increased risk for major depression during the menopause transition

Background The menopausal transition (MT) poses an increased risk for major depression (MD), but not for all women. Current and past stress are toxic risk factors for depression throughout life. The MT may be a time of increased sensitivity to stress, especially among women with a lifetime history of major depressive disorder (MDD). We evaluated whether women who experienced childhood maltreatment (CM) or current stressful events or ongoing problems were at increased risk for MD during the MT. Methods At the Pittsburgh site of the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, 333 midlife women were interviewed approximately annually over 15 years with the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnosis of DSM-IV Axis I Disorders and provided health and psychosocial data including the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Repeated measures logistic regression analyses were conducted separately for women with and without lifetime MDD at study entry. Results Among women with lifetime MDD, CM, but not current stress, interacted with menopausal status to increase the risk for MD during postmenopause (ORs ranged from 2.71 to 8.04). All stressors were associated with increased odds of MD. Among women without lifetime MDD, current stress was related to risk for MD, but the effect did not vary by menopausal status. Conclusions Women with MDD prior to midlife and who experienced CM were at greatest risk for MD after the MT. Women without prior MDD were at increased risk for MD during peri- and postmenopause. Healthcare providers should monitor women at risk for MD even after the MT.
Initiation of compatible wheat-Hessian fly interactions triggers the expression of a novel UDP-glycosyltransferase, MdesUGT1, in virulent Hessian fly larvae

Insect UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) play an important role in detoxification of substrates such as plant allelochemicals, and cuticle formation by the process of glucosidation. Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor), belonging to the order Diptera (Family: Cecidomyiidae), is a destructive pest of host wheat causing significant economic losses. In the current study, using the assembled genome, we identified thirteen genes in M. destructor that belong to the family of UGTs (MdesUGT). Expression profiling revealed differential expression of MdesUGT genes in Hessian fly feeding instars. Further, we report the molecular cloning of MdesUGT1, designated as UGT301F1, from M. destructor. Characterization of the MdesUGT1 amino acid sequence revealed a conserved signature motif and sugar donor-binding domains characteristic of UGT proteins. Further expression analysis revealed dramatic increase in transcript accumulation of MdesUGT1 in the first and second feeding instars during compatible interactions (susceptible wheat, virulent larvae) but lacked significant upregulation during incompatible wheat Hessian fly interactions. Similar increase in MdesUGT1 transcripts was also observed during interactions of Hessian fly with nonhost, Brachypodium distachyon. These findings suggest the possible early involvement of MdesUGT1 in detoxification of plant toxins, and subsequent role in cuticular formation, thus contributing to the growth and development of this dipteran insect pest. Identification and characterization of insect UGTs could provide valuable insights into the detoxification and growth inhibitory mechanisms and facilitate future plant pest management strategies.
Cannabidiol Does Not Impact Acute Anabolic or Inflammatory Signaling in Skeletal Muscle In Vitro

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of clinical conditions including as an aid for muscle recovery. Previous work demonstrated that CBD exhibited mild effects on skeletal muscle, with a tendency to increase anabolic signaling and decrease inflammatory signaling. Methods: To gain mechanistic insight and extend these findings, we conducted a set of experiments using C2C12 myotubes. Results: Increasing the dose of CBD (1-5 μM) provided with insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) showed no effect on anabolic signaling through mTORC1 (S6K1 [Thr389], p=0.27; rpS6 [Ser240/244], p=0.81; or 4E-BP1 [Thr37/46], p=0.87). Similarly, inflammatory signaling through nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) (p105, p=0.88; p50, p=0.93; or phosphorylated p65 [Ser536], p=0.84) in response to tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) was unaffected by CBD (2.5 μM), whereas dioscin, a natural product that blocks NF-κB signaling, reduced p105 and phosphorylated p65 (Ser536) compared with the TNFα and the TNFα + CBD condition (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). Finally, cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) receptor levels were measured in C2C12 cells, murine skeletal muscle, cortex, and hippocampus. Although CB1 was not detectable in muscle cells or muscle tissue, high levels were observed in brain tissue. Conclusion: In conclusion, CBD does not directly modulate anabolic or inflammatory signaling in myotubes in vitro, which can likely be explained by the lack of functional receptors.
Expression and function of insulin/insulin-like growth factor I hybrid receptors during differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

During the assembly of cell surface receptors, insulin proreceptors are sometimes joined to insulin-like growth factor (IGF) receptor precursors to form covalently linked hybrid receptors. To address the biological consequences of hybrid receptor formation, we studied 3T3-L1 cells known to undergo a 50-70-fold increase in insulin binding while maintaining nearly constant levels of IGF-I binding during differentiation from preadipocytes into adipocytes. The presence of insulin/IGF receptor hybrids in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was demonstrated by the immunoprecipitation of phosphorylated receptors and a novel enzyme-linked immunoassay. Hybrid receptor levels were very low in the early stages of differentiation and increased rapidly between days 4 and 6, reaching a level about 100-fold higher in the mature adipocyte. Coincident with the hybrid assembly, the formation of archetypal (alpha2,beta2) IGF receptors decreased. In fully differentiated adipocytes, virtually all of the IGF receptors were in hybrid form. Stimulation by IGF-I of receptors isolated from mature adipocytes caused autophosphorylation of IGF receptor beta subunits in hybrid complexes, whereas autophosphorylated IGF holoreceptors were not demonstrable. Insulin and IGF-I were equipotent in stimulating glucose uptake in the differentiated adipocytes, leading to the conclusion that hybrid insulin/IGF receptors can transduce a transmembrane signal when activated by IGF-I. We conclude that hybrid formation constitutes a novel post-translational mechanism whereby increased synthesis of insulin receptors limits the cell surface expression of the homologous IGF receptor. Furthermore, biological actions in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, previously attributed to archetypal IGF receptors, are in fact mediated through hybrid receptors.
Frequency independent antennas

There is a class of antennas whose pattern as well as impedance is practically independent of frequency for all frequencies above a certain value. The general formula for their shape is r = e^{a}(\varpi+\varpi_{0})F(\theta) where r \theta \varpi are the usual spherical coordinates, a and \varpi_{0} are constants and F(\theta) is any function of \theta . Assuming a to be positive, \varpi ranges from - \infty to some finite value which determines the low frequency limit. For such antennas a change of frequency is equivalent to a rotation of the antenna about \theta=0 . It appears that the pattern converges to the characteristic pattern as the frequency is raised, if a is not \infty , and that the impedance converges to the characteristic impedance for all a .
Heterodyne Spectroscopy of C II in Molecular Clouds

High-resolution spectra of the 158 μm fine-structure line of ionized carbon have been obtained with a heterodyne spectrometer toward a number of galactic molecular clouds. Strongly reversed C II line profiles are seen in sources noted for similar behavior in low-J 12CO. The C+ producing the optically thick (τ≥1) absorption component is cool or subthermally excited, with excitation temperatures typically less than 25–50 K. Column densities for the absorption component are ≥;1018 cm-2, similar to values predicted by UV-photodissociation models for C II emitting gas. Thus the total C+ column density in the vicinity of these molecular clouds is significantly greater than previously estimated from integrated intensity measurements.
Functional connectivity constrains the category‐related organization of human ventral occipitotemporal cortex

One of the most robust and oft-replicated findings in cognitive neuroscience is that several spatially distinct, functionally dissociable ventral occipitotemporal cortex (VOTC) regions respond preferentially to dif- ferent categories of concrete entities. However, the determinants of this category-related organization remain to be fully determined. One recent proposal is that privileged connectivity of these VOTC regions with other regions that store and/or process category-relevant properties may be a major contributing factor. To test this hypothesis, we used a multicategory functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) localizer to individually define category-related brain regions of interest (ROIs) in a large group of subjects (n 533). We then used these ROIs in resting-state functional connectivity MRI analyses to explore spontaneous functional connectiv- ity among these regions. We demonstrate that during rest, distinct category-preferential VOTC regions show differentially stronger functional connectivity with other regions that have congruent category-preference, as defined by the functional localizer. Importantly, a "tool"-preferential region in the left medial fusiform gyrus showed differentially stronger functional connectivity with other left lateralized cortical regions associated with perceiving and knowing about common tools—posterior middle temporal gyrus (involved in perception of nonbiological motion), lateral parietal cortex (critical for reaching, grasping, manipulating), and ventral pre- motor cortex (involved in storing/executing motor programs)—relative to other category-related regions in VOTC of both the right and left hemisphere. Our findings support the claim that privileged connectivity with other cortical regions that store and/or process category-relevant properties constrains the category-related organization of VOTC. Hum Brain Mapp 00:000-000, 2015. V C 2015 Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
THE GEOGRAPHY OF GONORRHEA: EMPIRICAL DEMONSTRATION OF CORE GROUP TRANSMISSION

The pattern of reported gonorrhea in Upstate New York (exclusive of New York City) in the years 1975-1980 is one of intense central urban concentration, with concentric circles of diminishing incidence. The relative risk for gonorrhea in these central core areas, compared to background state rates, is 19.8 for men and 15.9 for women, but as high as 40 in selected census tracts. Prevalence appears to approach 20% in some areas, the level postulated by current epidemiologic models for continuing endemic transmission. These core areas are characterized by high population density, low socioeconomic status and a male to female case ratio of one or lower. Contact investigation data suggest that sexual contact tends to exhibit geographic clustering as well. These observations provide support for narrow focusing of epidemiologic resources as a major disease control strategy.
Detection of microsporidia by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies

During a screening for monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) to the microsporidian Encephalitozoon hellem, three murine hybridoma cell lines producing strong enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reactivities were cloned twice, were designated C12, E9, and E11, and were found to secrete MAbs to the immunoglobulin M isotype. On subsequent ELISAs, the three MAbs reacted most strongly to E. hellem, and they reacted somewhat less to Encephalitozoon cuniculi and least to Nosema corneum, two other microsporidian species. The MAbs produced values of absorbance against microsporidia that were at least three times greater than reactivities obtained with control hybridoma supernatants or with uninfected host cell proteins used as antigens. By Western blot immunodetection, the three MAbs detected three E. hellem antigens with relative molecular weights (M(r)s) of 62, 60, and 52 when assayed at the highest supernatant dilutions producing reactivity. At lower dilutions, the MAbs detected additional proteins with M(r)s of 55 and 53. By using indirect immunofluorescence antibody staining, the MAbs, as well as hyperimmune polyclonal murine antisera raised against E. cuniculi and E. hellem, were able to detect formalin-fixed, tissue culture-derived E. cuniculi and E. hellem and two other human microsporidia, Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Septata intestinalis, in formalin-fixed stool and urine, respectively. E. bieneusi, however, stained more intensely with the polyclonal antisera than with the MAbs. Neither the MAbs nor the hyperimmune murine polyclonal antibodies detected Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Trichomonas, or Isospora spp. At higher concentrations, the polyclonal antisera did stain N. corneum and yeast cells. The background staining could be absorbed with Candida albicans. These results demonstrate that polyclonal antisera to E. cuniculi and E. hellem, as well as MAbs raised against E. hellem, can be used for indirect immunofluorescence antibody staining to detect several species of microsporidia known to cause opportunistic infections in AIDS patients.
Oxygen supply to encapsulated therapeutic cells

Therapeutic cells encapsulated in immunobarrier devices have promise for treatment of a variety of human diseases without immunosuppression. The absence of sufficient oxygen supply to maintain viability and function of encapsulated tissue has been the most critical impediment to progress. Within the framework of oxygen supply limitations, we review the major issues related to development of these devices, primarily in the context of encapsulated islets of Langerhans for treating diabetes, including device designs and materials, supply of tissue, protection from immune rejection, and maintenance of cell viability and function. We describe various defensive measures investigated to enhance survival of transplanted tissue, and we review the diverse approaches to enhancement of oxygen transport to encapsulated tissue, including manipulation of diffusion distances and oxygen permeability of materials, induction of neovascularization with angiogenic factors and vascularizing membranes, and methods for increasing the oxygen concentration adjacent to encapsulated tissue so as to exceed that in the microvasculature. Recent developments, particularly in this latter area, suggest that the field is ready for clinical trials of encapsulated therapeutic cells to treat diabetes.
Objectively Determined Fair-Weather CBL Depths in the ARW-WRF Model and Their Comparison to CASES-97 Observations

AbstractHigh-resolution 24-h runs of the Advanced Research version of the Weather Research and Forecasting Model are used to test eight objective methods for estimating convective boundary layer (CBL) depth h, using four planetary boundary layer schemes: Yonsei University (YSU), Mellor–Yamada–Janjic (MYJ), Bougeault–LaCarrere (BouLac), and quasi-normal scale elimination (QNSE). The methods use thresholds of virtual potential temperature Θυ, turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), Θυ,z, or Richardson number. Those that identify h consistent with values found subjectively from modeled Θυ profiles are used for comparisons to fair-weather observations from the 1997 Cooperative Atmosphere–Surface Exchange Study (CASES-97).The best method defines h as the lowest level at which Θυ,z = 2 K km−1, working for all four schemes, with little sensitivity to horizontal grid spacing. For BouLac, MYJ, and QNSE, TKE thresholds did poorly for runs with 1- and 3-km grid spacing, producing irregular h growth not consistent with Θυ-p...
Role of alpha-helix seven of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ab delta-endotoxin in membrane insertion, structural stability, and ion channel activity.

Domain I of the Cry1Ab insecticidal toxic protein has seven alpha-helices and is considered to be involved in the ion channel activity. While other alpha-helices, particularly alpha-4 and alpha-5, have been extensively explored, the remaining alpha-helices have been slightly studied. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate mutations throughout sequences encoding the alpha-helix 7 to test its role in ion channel function. Every amino acid residue in alpha-helix 7 was mutated to alanine. Most resultant proteins, e.g., D225A, W226A, Y229A, N230A, R233A, R234A, D242A, and F247A yielded no protoxin or were sensitive to degradation by trypsin or Manduca sexta midgut juice. Other mutant proteins, R224A, R228A, and E235A, were resistant to degradation to the above proteases but were 8, 30, and 12 times less toxic to M. sexta, respectively, than the wild-type Cry1Ab. Circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated a very small change in the R228A spectrum, while R224A and E235A display the same spectrum as the wild-type protein. These three mutant proteins showed little differences from Cry1Ab when analyzed by saturation binding and competition binding kinetics with (125)I-labeled toxin or by surface plasmon resonance to M. sexta brush border membrane vesicles. More conservative amino acid substitutions were introduced into alpha-helix 7 residues: R228K, F232Y, E235Q, and F247Y. In comparison with wild-type Cry1Ab, mutant proteins R228K, F232Y, E235A, and E235Q selectively discriminate between K+ and Rb+, while R224A and R228A had reduced inhibition of short-circuit current for both ions, when analyzed by voltage clamping of M. sexta midguts.
The effect of tidally induced changes in the creekbank water table on pore water chemistry

Water moved into the creekbank sediments in direct response to the changing levels of the water table caused by the tides. The net water loss of the sediments was 3–30% on each low tide and this loss was confined to within 4 m (horizontal) of the creek. The replacement of this water by incoming tidal water could not supply sufficient nutrients for the growth of creekbank Spartina. However, during ebb tide there was a replacement of water in the creekbanks with nutrient-rich water from the marsh interior as demonstrated by the large changes in pore water chemistry over a tidal cycle. The concentration and the range of a chemical parameter depended upon the stage of the tide, the tidal range, the time of year and (for salinity) the rainfall patterns of the month preceding sampling. Over a single tidal cycle the maximum ranges were: salinity ‰, 26–33; alkalinity, 2·5–13·6 med 1−1, ammonia, 2–400 μm, sulfate, 23·5–29 mmol 1−1. Measurable concentrations of sulfide were only found in a few samples. This high nutrient water can supply nitrogen and probably other nutrients to Spartina.
Time‐Dependent Turbulent Convection in 1D Radiation Hydrodynamics of Pulsating Stars

: Due to the lack of a self-consistent convection theory, each model of turbulent convection has to pass through several tests based on detailed comparisons with observations of real astrophysical objects. In this context nonlinear investigations of radially pulsating stars play an important role. They provide a unique opportunity to confront results of model calculations with a huge, detailed and accurate material of observational data. Using a state-of-the-art numerical technique we investigate the nonlinear behavior of radially pulsating stars by solving the full time-dependent system of radiation hydrodynamics including a time-dependent turbulent convection model. As a first example we discuss nonlinear models of RR Lyrae stars. We present fundamental as well as first overtone lightcurves for two sets of stellar parameters. A standard Fourier decomposition is used to confront the resulting light and radial velocity variations with recent observations and we show that well-known problems like the phase discrepancy problem or the problem of stable nonlinear double mode models can be treated.
Playing, Fighting, and Dancing: Unpacking the Significance of Ginga within the Practice of Capoeira Angola

Capoeira players are best known for their syncopated swings, sweeps, and slides, collectively known as ginga in Brazil. How does this particular mode of action function, and what roles does it assume during games of capoeira angola?
The Long-Run Efficiency of United States Sugar Policy

The adequacy of future sugar availabilities for United States consumption requirements since the 1960 embargo on Cuban sugar is a matter of continuing concern. This article gives estimates of the long-run effects of this embargo on the world and the United States sugar economies as well as of the efficiency of current United States long-run sugar supply policy. Long-run supply and demand functions were estimated and a general equilibrium competitive model was constructed. Comparison of the results of this competitive model with projected results of the present United States sugar supply program demonstrates the potential economic inefficiencies of the program.
Isolation of CYP3A5P cDNA from human liver: a reflection of a novel cytochrome P-450 pseudogene

Abstract We have isolated, from a human liver cDNA library, a 1627 by CYP3A5 cDNA variant ( CYP3A5P ) that contains several large insertions, deletions, and in-frame termination codons. By comparison with the genomic structure of other CYP3A genes, the major insertions in CYP3A5P cDNA demarcate the inferred sites of several CYP3A5 exons. The segments inserted in CYP3A5P have no homology with splice donor acceptor sites. It is unlikely that CYP3A5P cDNA represents an artifact of the cloning procedures since Southern blot analysis of human genomic DNA disclosed that CYP3A5P cDNA hybridized with a DNA fragment distinct from fragments that hybridized with either CYP3A5 , CYP3A3 or CYP3A4 . Moreover, analysis of adult human liver RNA on Northern blots hybridized with a CYP3A5P cDNA fragment revealed the presence of an mRNA with the predicted size of CYP3A5P . We conclude that CYP3A5P cDNA was derived from a separate gene, CYP3A5P , most likely a pseudogene evolved from CYP3A5 .
Determination of 1-[5-(2-cyclopropyl-5,7-dimethyl-imidazo[4,5-b] pyridin-3-ylmethyl)thiophen-2-yl]cyclopent-3-enecarboxylic acid (CP-191,166), an angiotensin II antagonist, in dog and rat plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography.

A simple and precise high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay was developed and validated for the determination of a novel angiotensin II antagonist, 1-[5-(2-cyclopropyl-5,7-dimethyl-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridin-3-ylmethyl)thiopen-2-yl)cyclopent-3-enecarboxylic acid (CP-191,166, I), in dog and rat plasma. The internal standard (II, a saturated derivative of I) and analyte were extracted by liquid-liquid extraction using methyl tert.-butyl ether. Samples were analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC using a Zorbax C8 narrow-bore column with ultraviolet detection at 289 nm. The quantitation limit of I was 10 ng/ml and the calibration curve was linear over the range of 0.01–10.0 μg/ml (r2>0.99). In dog and rat plasma, intra- and inter-assay precision ranged from 0.00 to 3.36% and 0.00 to 4.95%, respectively. The average recoveries were similar (73%) for both I and II and the upper limit of quantification of I can be as high as 500 μg/ml. The method described has been successfully applied to the quantification of I in about 2000 dog and rat plasma samples over a nine-month period.
Advanced diffusion MRI fiber tracking in neurosurgical and neurodegenerative disorders and neuroanatomical studies: A review

Diffusion MRI enabled in vivo microstructural imaging of the fiber tracts in the brain resulting in its application in a wide range of settings, including in neurological and neurosurgical disorders. Conventional approaches such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) have been shown to have limited applications due to the crossing fiber problem and the susceptibility of their quantitative indices to partial volume effects. To overcome these limitations, the recent focus has shifted to the advanced acquisition methods and their related analytical approaches. Advanced white matter imaging techniques provide superior qualitative data in terms of demonstration of multiple crossing fibers in their spatial orientation in a three dimensional manner in the brain. In this review paper, we discuss the advancements in diffusion MRI and introduce their roles. Using examples, we demonstrate the role of advanced diffusion MRI-based fiber tracking in neuroanatomical studies. Results from its preliminary application in the evaluation of intracranial space occupying lesions, including with respect to future directions for prognostication, are also presented. Building upon the previous DTI studies assessing white matter disease in Huntington's disease and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; we also discuss approaches which have led to encouraging preliminary results towards developing an imaging biomarker for these conditions.
A Dual Spectrum Concept for LMFBR Fuel Assay

One of the methods considered for fuel assay in a nuclear safeguards program is analysis of reactivity response. For uranium-plutonium LMFBR fuels, such an assay is complicated by the similar respo...
Genes, evolution and intelligence.

I argue that the g factor meets the fundamental criteria of a scientific construct more fully than any other conception of intelligence. I briefly discuss the evidence regarding the relationship of brain size to intelligence. A review of a large body of evidence demonstrates that there is a g factor in a wide range of species and that, in the species studied, it relates to brain size and is heritable. These findings suggest that many species have evolved a general-purpose mechanism (a general biological intelli- gence) for dealing with the environments in which they evolved. In spite of numerous studies with considerable statistical power, we know of very few genes that influence g and the effects are very small. Nevertheless, g appears to be highly polygenic. Given the complexity of the human brain, it is not surprising that that one of its primary fac- ulties—intelligence—is best explained by the near infini- tesimal model of quantitative genetics.
Differences in heart size between ocean-caught and laboratory-grown larvae of the northern anchovy, Engraulis mordax girard

Large differences in heart size occur between ocean-caught and laboratory-grown larvae of the northern anchovy, Engraulis mordax Girard. At 4 mm in standard length (3 days), laboratory-grown larvae had hearts only slightly larger than that ocean-caught larvae, but at 9 mm (16 days), heart of laboratory-grown larvae were 40°o longer. Thereafter, the percentage decreased to 24°o at 19 mm, the longest laboratory-grown larvae available. The percentage probably decreases further in larvae longer than 19 mm as indicated by trends in the allometric growth equations. At the first-feeding stage in the laboratory, larvae that had been feeding for 2 days had larger hearts and deeper bodies than non-feeding larvae.
Effects of extender and insemination dose on postthaw quality and fertility of bovine sperm

Quality and fertility of sperm extended in egg yolk-Tes-Tris were compared with those of sperm in egg yolk-citrate and homogenized milk extenders. Extended semen was frozen in .5-ml plastic straws at 11, 15, 17, or 22 X 10(6) sperm per insemination dose. Laboratory evaluations at 0, 1, 2, and 4 h after thawing semen utilized four tests of spermatozoal quality. Use of egg-yolk citrate extender resulted in a higher percentage of progressively motile sperm as determined visually at 0 h after thawing than use of egg yolk-Tes-Tris or homogenized milk extenders. Sperm extended in egg yolk-citrate had 18% lower activity of bound amidase at 0 h than sperm extended in egg yolk-Tes-Tris. The 75-d nonreturn rates were affected by insemination dose but not be extender or the interaction of extender and insemination dose. Fertility was lower after insemination of 11 X 10(6) sperm than for pooled data for the three higher insemination doses (64 vs. 68%). Based on all data, postthaw quality of sperm processed in the one-step egg yolk-Tes-Tris extender was similar to that for sperm extended in egg yolk-citrate or homogenized milk.
Canopy phylogenetic, chemical and spectral assembly in a lowland Amazonian forest

Summary •Canopy chemistry and spectroscopy offer insight into community assembly and ecosystem processes in high-diversity tropical forests, but phylogenetic and environmental factors controlling chemical traits underpinning spectral signatures remain poorly understood. •We measured 21 leaf chemical traits and spectroscopic signatures of 594 canopy individuals on high-fertility Inceptisols and low-fertility Ultisols in a lowland Amazonian forest. The spectranomics approach, which explicitly connects phylogenetic, chemical and spectral patterns in tropical canopies, provided the basis for analysis. •Intracrown and intraspecific variation in chemical traits varied from 1.4 to 36.7% (median 9.3%), depending upon the chemical constituent. Principal components analysis showed that 14 orthogonal combinations were required to explain 95% of the variation among 21 traits, indicating the high dimensionality of canopy chemical signatures among taxa. Inceptisols and lianas were associated with high leaf nutrient concentrations and low concentrations of defense compounds. Independent of soils or plant habit, an average 70% (maximum 89%) of chemical trait variation was explained by taxonomy. At least 10 traits were quantitatively linked to remotely sensed signatures, which provided highly accurate species classification. •The results suggest that taxa found on fertile soils carry chemical portfolios with a deep evolutionary history, whereas taxa found on low-fertility soils have undergone trait evolution at the species level. Spectranomics provides a new connection between remote sensing and community assembly theory in high-diversity tropical canopies.
Peat carrier increases inoculation success with Frankia on red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) in fumigated nursery beds

Inoculation trials were set up in fumigated nursery beds for red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) bare-root seedling production. Frankia inoculum was applied either as nodule homogenate or as pure culture (strain ArI5). The plots were laid out in 4 blocks of 8 treatments consisting of: control, nodule suspension, and three levels each of cell suspension and cells applied with a peat carrier. Numbers, height, and percentage nodulation on the seedlings were determined at mid-season. Numbers, size, dry weights, and degree of nodulation were determined at lifting. The peat inoculum treatment produced larger seedlings than the other treatments, both at mid-season and at lifting. The other treatments had little effect on growth. Size differences paralleled differences in degree of nodulation. Differences in percentage of seedlings nodulated were most pronounced at midseason, indicating that inoculation confered primarily an early-season advantage.
Spectral diffusion in the tunneling spectra of ligand-stabilized undecagold clusters.

We report diffusion in the tunneling spectra of isolated, ligand-stabilized undecagold (Au11) clusters immobilized by attachment to α,ω-alkanedithiolate tethers inserted into alkanethiolate self-assembled monolayers. We use scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy at cryogenic (UHV, 4 K) conditions to measure these clusters' conductance with complete control of their chemical and physical environment; additionally, thermal broadening of their electronic states as well as their mobility is minimized. At low temperature, the Au11 clusters demonstrate Coulomb blockade behavior, with zero-conductance gaps resulting from quantum size effects. Surprisingly, chemically identical and even single particles produced different families of tunneling spectra, comparable to previous results for heterogeneous distributions of particles. We hypothesize that, while these particles are chemically attached to the surface of the SAM for measurement, these assemblies may still be sufficiently dynamic to affect their tra...
Experimental and theoretical investigation of the 13C and 15N chemical shift tensors in melanostatin-exploring the chemical shift tensor as a structural probe.

The determination of backbone conformations in powdered peptides using 13C and 15N shift tensor information is explored. The 13C and 15N principal shift values in natural abundance 13C and 15N melanostatin (l-Pro-l-Leu-Gly amide) are measured using the FIREMAT technique. Furthermore, the orientation of the C−N bond in the 13C shift principal axis system for the backbone carbons is obtained from the presence of the 13C−14N dipolar coupling. The Ramachandran angles for the title compound are obtained from solid-state NMR data by comparing the experimentally determined shift tensor information to systematic theoretical shielding calculations on N-formyl-l-amino acid-amide models. The effects of geometry optimization and neglect of intermolecular interactions on the theoretical shielding values in the model compounds are investigated. The sets of NMR derived Ramachandran angles are assembled in a set of test structures that are compared to the available single-crystal X-ray structure. Shift tensor calculation...
The effects of heat and cobalt-60 gamma-radiation on excystation of the rat coccidium, Eimeria nieschulzi Dieben, 1924.

SYNOPSIS. Sporulated oocysts of Eimeria nieschulzi Dieben, a rat coccidium, were exposed for 1 hr to Cobalt-60 γ-radiation (15, 30. or 60 k-rads), to heat (35, 40, or 45 C). or to both concurrently (15, 30, or 60 k-rads at 35 C) to compare the excystation capabilities of treated vs nontreated parasites. Intact, treated oocysts appeared structurally unaltered when viewed with the light microscope. Excystation of sporozoites occurred in all treated groups when their sporocysts were exposed to a trypsin-sodium taurocholate (TST) fluid, but after 150 min in TST the excystation rate was significantly lower than in non-treated sporocysts. Sporozoites which excysted from treated sporocysts were abnormal both in the excystation process and in their form and movement once outside the sporocyst.
Four-dimensional ultrasonography of the fetal heart with spatiotemporal image correlation☆

Abstract Objective This study was undertaken to describe a new technique for the examination of the fetal heart using four-dimensional ultrasonography with spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC). Study design Volume data sets of the fetal heart were acquired with a new cardiac gating technique (STIC), which uses automated transverse and longitudinal sweeps of the anterior chest wall. These volumes were obtained from 69 fetuses: 35 normal, 16 with congenital anomalies not affecting the cardiovascular system, and 18 with cardiac abnormalities. Dynamic multiplanar slicing and surface rendering of cardiac structures were performed. To illustrate the STIC technique, two representative volumes from a normal fetus were compared with volumes obtained from fetuses with the following congenital heart anomalies: atrioventricular septal defect, tricuspid stenosis, tricuspid atresia, and interrupted inferior vena cava with abnormal venous drainage. Results Volume datasets obtained with a transverse sweep were utilized to demonstrate the cardiac chambers, moderator band, interatrial and interventricular septae, atrioventricular valves, pulmonary veins, and outflow tracts. With the use of a reference dot to navigate the four-chamber view, intracardiac structures could be simultaneously studied in three orthogonal planes. The same volume dataset was used for surface rendering of the atrioventricular valves. The aortic and ductal arches were best visualized when the original plane of acquisition was sagittal. Volumes could be interactively manipulated to simultaneously visualize both outflow tracts, in addition to the aortic and ductal arches. Novel views of specific structures were generated. For example, the location and extent of a ventricular septal defect was imaged in a sagittal view of the interventricular septum. Furthermore, surface-rendered images of the atrioventricular valves were employed to distinguish between normal and pathologic conditions. Representative video clips were posted on the Journal's Web site to demonstrate the diagnostic capabilities of this new technique. Conclusion Dynamic multiplanar slicing and surface rendering of the fetal heart are feasible with STIC technology. One good quality volume dataset, obtained from a transverse sweep, can be used to examine the four-chamber view and the outflow tracts. This novel method may assist in the evaluation of fetal cardiac anatomy.
On the 2-class field tower of some imaginary biquadratic number fields

Let \(k=Q({\sqrt d,\sqrt{-q}})\) be an imaginary biquadratic number field with Clk,2, the 2-class group of k, isomorphic to Z/2Z × Z/2mZ, m > 1, with q a prime congruent to 3 mod 4 and d a square-free positive integer relatively prime to q. For a number of fields k of the above type we determine if the 2-class field tower of k has length greater than or equal to 2. To establish these results we utilize capitulation of ideal classes in the three unramified quadratic extensions of k, ambiguous class number formulas, results concerning the fundamental units of real biquadratic number fields, and criteria for imaginary quadratic number fields to have 2-class field tower length 1.
Empire's Garden: Assam and the Making of Modern India

Jayeeta Sharma (2011), xvii +324, Duke University Press, Durham, paperback $25.95). Assam is today mostly associated with tea, and Jayeeta Sharma traces the history of this association and its impa...
Continuous- and discrete-time D-stability, joint D-stability, and their applications: μ theory and diagonal stability approaches

This paper studies relationships, implications, and applications of diagonal stability and D-stability. Necessary and sufficient conditions for continuous- and discrete-time D-stability are presented in terms of structured singular values of related matrices. It is shown that, for a certain class of interconnected systems, diagonal stability and D-stability are equivalent and the optimization of diagonal scaling gives a necessary and sufficient condition for stability of those systems. This paper also discusses several issues on diagonal stability and additive D-stability with their applications to robust optimal power distribution control and stability analysis of a certain class of reaction-diffusion systems with which the proposed robust stability and stabilizing conditions are illustrated. The resultant analysis and control design problems are formulated as linear or semidefinite programs.
An Algorithm for the Solution of the Two-Dimensional ``Hidden-Line'' Problem

The two-dimensional ``hidden-line'' problem is the problem of determining, by means of a computer algorithm, which edges or parts of edges of an arbitrary, nonintersecting polygon are visible from a specified vantage point in the plane of the polygon. The problem is an important one in the field of computer graphics, and is encountered, for example, in using a computer to determine the portion of an island's coastline visible from a ship offshore. Some propositions are introduced that facilitate the solution of this problem. A general algorithm for the solution is described, and illustrative examples are given of hidden-line problems solved with a digital computer.
The Protection Paradox

Who's kidding who? If you think a missile defense deployment will make the world safer, take a look at how the United States reacted to the Soviet missile defense of Moscow.
Assumed-modes modeling of piezoelectric energy harvesters: Euler-Bernoulli, Rayleigh, and Timoshenko models with axial deformations

A generalized framework is presented for the electromechanical modeling of base-excited piezoelectric energy harvesters with symmetric and unsymmetric laminates. The electromechanical derivations are given using the assumed-modes method under the Euler-Bernoulli, Rayleigh, and Timoshenko beam assumptions in three sections. The formulations account for an independent axial displacement variable and its electromechanical coupling in all cases. Comparisons are provided against the analytical solution for symmetric laminates and convergence of the assumed-modes solution to the analytical solution with increasing number of modes is shown. Model validations are also presented by comparing the electromechanical frequency response functions derived herein with the experimentally obtained ones in the absence and presence of a tip mass attachment. A discussion is provided for combination of the assumed-modes solution with nonlinear energy harvesting and storage circuitry. The electromechanical assumed-modes formulations can be used for modeling of piezoelectric energy harvesters with moderate thickness as well as those with unsymmetric laminates and varying geometry in the axial direction.
Dislocation relaxation in single crystals of bcc metals

Abstract The behavior of the α dislocation relaxation peak in bcc metals has been investigated for various orientations of high purity single crystals which were deformed in tension at temperatures in the range 77–450°K. The effects of substitutional alloying, interstitial impurities and strain aging were also examined. These results coupled with results obtained by other investigators support a dislocation breakaway model as a likely mechanism of the α peak.
Rethinking Kant on Individuation

In the section of the Critique of Pure Reason entitled The Amphiboly of Concepts of Reflection Kant writes: Suppose that an object is exhibited to us repeatedly but always with the same intrinsic determinations ( qualitas et quantitas ). In that case, if the object counts as object of pure understanding then it is always the same object, and is not many but only one thing (i.e., we have numerica identitas). But if the object is appearance, then comparison of concepts does not matter at all; rather, however much everything regarding these concepts may be the same, yet the difference of locations of these appearances at the same time is a sufficient basis for the numerical difference of the object (of the senses) itself. Thus in the case of two drops of water we can abstract completely from all intrinsic difference (of quality and quantity), and their being intuited simultaneously in different locations is enough for considering them to be numerically different.
Real Wage and Nominal Shock: Evidence from Pacific-Rim Countries

This paper examines aggregate real-wage responses to nominal shocks in four Pacific-rim countries utilizing a vector autoregression (VAR) framework. In this study, positive real-wage responses are found in Japan and New Zealand whereas negative responses are found in Australia and Korea. In the transmission of nominal shocks to real economic activities, the findings show a sticky-price model to be more important in Japan and New Zealand, while a sticky-wage model plays the more dominant role in Australia and Korea.
Thermally Stable Silphenylene Vinyl Siloxane Elastomers and Their Blends

Vinyl-substituted silphenylene siloxane elastomers (VSPSEs) with variable vinyl content were synthesized using the disilanol−diaminosilane polycondensation method. High molecular weight elastomers were obtained by using carefully purified monomers. The polymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). Analysis by 29Si NMR established that the samples have exactly alternating chemical structures. VSPSEs have low glass transition temperatures (Tg's) ranging from −26 to −63 °C. Substitution of the methyl group on silicon with phenyl increases the Tg as well as the TGA residues in both air and nitrogen. TGA experiments showed that the VSPSEs synthesized in this study have the highest degradation temperatures reported so far. The TGA residues at 900 °C increased to 70% in nitrogen and 57% in air as the vinyl content increased. Furthermore, remarkable isothermal weight losses were shown by the VSPSEs. For example, the ela...