cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Sibship and the Presence of Multiple Predators on the Behavior of Green Frog (Rana clamitans) Tadpoles

In nature, prey are exposed to multiple predators simultaneously. We examined the effects of the cues of two potential predators, mosquitofish and odonate larvae, individually and in combination on the behavior of green frog (Rana clamitans) tadpoles. In addition to examining the behavioral response of green frog tadpoles to multiple predators, we examined variation in behavior among tadpoles from different egg masses (i.e. different sibships). Sibships differed in activity level and there was a significant predator cue by sibship interaction. Two sibships were relatively more active in the control and odonate predator cue treatments but showed reduced activity in treatments containing mosquitofish cues, whereas the remaining sibships showed consistently low levels of activity in all predator cue treatments, including the control. The use of the vegetated side of the aquarium did not differ between tadpoles exposed to the different predator cues. Sibship had no effect on tadpoles’ use of the vegetated side of the aquarium, and there was no interaction between sibship and predator cue. Our results suggest that green frogs did not respond to simultaneous exposure to multiple predator cues any differently than they did to exposure to individual predator cues. More importantly, our results suggest variation, possibly genetically based, in behavioral responses of tadpoles to predators, and thus selection on these behaviors is possible. Of particular interest is that there was variation in behavioral responses to a non-native predator (Gambusia affinis), suggesting an evolutionary response to an invasive predator is possible.
The Mössbauer effect of the 99 and 129 keV transitions in 195Pt

Abstract The Mossbauer effect of the 99 keV transition in 195 Pt has been studied in various diamagnetic environments and Debye temperatures obtained for Pt in Pt, Be, Cu and Ir. Some negative results on the 129 keV transition are also reported.
Epidemiology, Heritability and Genetic Linkage of C-Reactive Protein in African-Americans (From the Jackson Heart Study)

C-reactive protein (CRP) has been studied largely in white non-Hispanic cohorts. There is limited information on CRP's range of values, heritability, and relation to cardiovascular disease risk factors in African Americans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution, clinical correlates, heritability, and genetic linkage of log-transformed CRP in participants in the middle-aged to elderly African American cohort in the community-based Jackson Heart Study. The distribution and correlates of CRP were analyzed for the entire study cohort who underwent the first examination (2001 to 2004). Heritability was estimated for the family cohort nested within the larger Jackson Heart Study (246 families, n = 1,317). The relation between CRP and cardiovascular disease risk factors was tested with multivariable stepwise regression analyses. Heritability was estimated using a variance-components method. Linkage analysis was performed using the multipoint variance-components approach. The study sample consisted of 4,919 participants (mean age 55 +/- 13 years, 63% women); the median CRP concentration was 2.7 mg/L. In stepwise models, traditional risk factors explained 23.8% of CRP's variability, with body mass index (partial R(2) = 13.6%) explaining 57.1% of the variability of CRP due to traditional risk factors. The heritability of CRP (adjusted for age, gender, and body mass index) was 0.45. The strongest linkage evidence for CRP was observed on chromosome 11 (11p13 to 11p11.2), with a logarithm of odds score of 2.72. In conclusion, in this large population-based cohort of African Americans, circulating CRP concentration was heritable and associated with several traditional cardiovascular risk factors, particularly body mass index.
The choice of crime: An empirical analysis of juveniles' criminal choice

Abstract This article applies the theory of individual rational choice to micro data on the criminal activity of juveniles. The individual choice model is developed and applied to data on 1,171 files on property offenses adjudicated by the Family Court between 1972 and 1976. It is found that the type of crime chosen, as indicated by the charge at the time of arrest and the final charge, is influenced by sex, age, number of prior referrals to the court, ethnic extraction, and place of residence of the juvenile. As the effect of each of these individual characteristics on the probability of selecting the various crimes differs, the choice of crime exhibits dynamic features; as the individual age increases, and as the number of prior referrals to court increases, the probabilities of selecting particular crimes change. These features are examined by generating the probabilities and examining the patterns which emerge.
Three‐dimensional imaging of plant cuticle architecture using confocal scanning laser microscopy

Full appreciation of the roles of the plant cuticle in numerous aspects of physiology and development requires a comprehensive understanding of its biosynthesis and deposition; however, much is still not known about cuticle structure, trafficking and assembly. To date, assessment of cuticle organization has been dominated by 2D imaging, using histochemical stains in conjunction with light and fluorescence microscopy. This strategy, while providing valuable information, has limitations because it attempts to describe a complex 3D structure in 2D. An imaging technique that could accurately resolve 3D architecture would provide valuable additions to the growing body of information on cuticle molecular biology and biochemistry. We present a novel application of 3D confocal scanning laser microscopy for visualizing the architecture, deposition patterns and micro-structure of plant cuticles, using the fluorescent stain auramine O. We demonstrate the utility of this technique by contrasting the fruit cuticle of wild-type tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. M82) with those of cutin-deficient mutants. We also introduce 3D cuticle modeling based on reconstruction of serial optical sections, and describe its use in identification of several previously unreported features of the tomato fruit cuticle.
Partitioning of energy in pregnant beef cows during nutritionally induced body weight fluctuation

The purpose of this study was to determine if the efficiency of energy retention in pregnant cows was dependent on the time during the pregnancy that feed was offered. Our hypothesis was that restricting feed intake during the second trimester of gestation and providing the saved feed during the third trimester was less energetically efficient than providing the feed during the second trimester. Twenty cows (4 breed composite: 1/4 Hereford, 1/4 Angus, 1/4 Red Poll, and 1/4 Pinzgauer) that had produced 1 calf before the study were fed a diet that consisted of (DM basis) 67.3% chopped corn silage, 27.0% alfalfa hay, 5.5% corn, and 0.2% NaCl. When the cows were 87 +/- 0.6 d pregnant, the first nutrient balance measurement was conducted. Six subsequent nutrient balance measurements were taken on d 122 +/- 0.6, 143 +/- 0.6, 171 +/- 0.6, 206 +/- 0.6, 241 +/- 0.6, and 262 +/- 0.6 of gestation. Each nutrient balance measurement consisted of a 96-h total collection of feces and urine and a 24-h indirect calorimetry measurement. Ten cows were fed for moderate BW gain during the entire pregnancy, and 10 cows were feed-restricted in the second trimester and realimented during the third trimester (low-high, L-H). The BW of the cows at parturition (559 +/- 14 kg) did not differ between treatments (P = 0.20). There was a general trend for the proportion of ME intake retained to decrease in moderate cows as pregnancy progressed. The proportion of ME intake retained in L-H cows decreased during the first 49 d of feed restriction, but the proportion of ME retained after 77 d of restriction was greater than that retained at 49 d of restriction. During realimentation, there were no time effects for efficiency of ME conversion to retained energy, but efficiency was greater for L-H cows than moderate cows (P < 0.001). The ability of the cow to adapt its energy metabolism during periods of moderate feed restriction and realimentation allows development of management strategies that alter the time interval of the production cycle during which supplemental feed is offered. Total savings in feed offered during the production year are minimal, but management strategies can be developed that shift which feed resources are being used.
Detection of Biosignatures by Geomatrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (GALDI) Mass Spectrometry

Identification of mineral-associated biosignatures is of significance for retrieving biochemical information from geological records here on Earth and for detecting signs of life on other planets, such as Mars. An investigation using laser desorption Fourier transform mass spectrometry was conducted to determine whether geomatrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (GALDI) can be used to detect amino acids (e.g., histidine, threonine, and cysteine) and small proteins (e.g., gramicidin S) associated with mineral phases and whether the geomatrix impacts detection. Iron oxide (Fe2 O 3 ) and sodium chloride (NaCl) were investigated as clean chemical analogues of hematite and halite, respectively, which have both been detected on the surface of Mars. Samples were prepared by 2 methods: (1) application of analyte solution to the geomatrix surface with subsequent drying; and (2) physical mixing of analyte and geomatrix. Amino acids incorporated within NaCl by physical mixing yielded a better signal-to-noise rat...
Canonical forms for normal matrices that commute with their complex conjugate

We consider the class of normal complex matrices that commute with their complex conjugate. We show that such matrices are real orthogonally similar to a canonical direct sum of 1-by-1 and certain 2-by-2 matrices. A canonical form for quasi-real normal matrices is obtained as a special case. We also exhibit a special form of the spectral theorem for normal matrices that commute with their conjugate.
The World Wide Web as an Instructional Tool

The Internet—and its graphically attractive application, the World Wide Web (WWW)—is potentially a powerful educational tool. Barrie and Presti discuss three ways in which the WWW can be profitably used in education: as a giant encyclopedia, as a virtual classroom, and as a supplement to conventional courses.
Assessment of municipal solid waste settlement models based on field-scale data analysis.

Abstract An evaluation of municipal solid waste (MSW) settlement model performance and applicability was conducted based on analysis of two field-scale datasets: (1) Yolo and (2) Deer Track Bioreactor Experiment (DTBE). Twelve MSW settlement models were considered that included a range of compression behavior (i.e., immediate compression, mechanical creep, and biocompression) and range of total (2–22) and optimized (2–7) model parameters. A multi-layer immediate settlement analysis developed for Yolo provides a framework to estimate initial waste thickness and waste thickness at the end-of-immediate compression. Model application to the Yolo test cells (conventional and bioreactor landfills) via least squares optimization yielded high coefficient of determinations for all settlement models ( R 2 > 0.83). However, empirical models (i.e., power creep, logarithmic, and hyperbolic models) are not recommended for use in MSW settlement modeling due to potential non-representative long-term MSW behavior, limited physical significance of model parameters, and required settlement data for model parameterization. Settlement models that combine mechanical creep and biocompression into a single mathematical function constrain time-dependent settlement to a single process with finite magnitude, which limits model applicability. Overall, all models evaluated that couple multiple compression processes (immediate, creep, and biocompression) provided accurate representations of both Yolo and DTBE datasets. A model presented in Gourc et al. (2010) included the lowest number of total and optimized model parameters and yielded high statistical performance for all model applications ( R 2 ⩾ 0.97).
Evaluating brief screeners to discriminate between drug use disorders in a sample of treatment-seeking adults.

Abstract Objective The objective was to identify a potential core set of brief screeners for the detection of individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) in medical settings. Method Data were from two multisite studies that evaluated stimulant use outcomes of an abstinence-based contingency management intervention as an addition to usual care (National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network trials 006–007). The sample comprised 847 substance-using adults who were recruited from 12 outpatient substance abuse treatment settings across the United States. Alcohol and drug use disorders were assessed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition , Checklist. Data were analyzed by factor analysis, item response theory (IRT), sensitivity and specificity procedures. Results Comparatively prevalent symptoms of dependence, especially inability to cut down for all substances, showed high sensitivity for detecting an SUD (low rate of false negative). IRT-defined severe (infrequent) and low discriminative items, especially withdrawal for alcohol, cannabis and cocaine, had low sensitivity in identifying cases of an SUD. IRT-defined less severe (frequent) and high discriminative items, including inability to cut down or taking larger amounts than intended for all substances and withdrawal for amphetamines and opioids, showed good-to-high values of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in classifying cases and noncases of an SUD. Conclusion Findings suggest the feasibility of identifying psychometrically reliable substance dependence symptoms to develop a two-item screen for alcohol and drug disorders.
A systematic review of the translational research on the Diabetes Prevention Program

International clinical trials have demonstrated compelling evidence on the prevention or delay of type 2 diabetes (T2D) by lifestyle change programs. Numerous studies have translated the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) protocol to "real-world" settings. The purpose of this paper is to review the translational research of the DPP protocol in adults at-risk for T2D. This study is a systematic review based on the guidelines from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews. There were 16 studies that translated the DPP protocol in four distinct settings: (a) hospital outpatient, (b) primary care, (c) community, and (d) work and church. Settings varied considerably in terms of reach, efficacy, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. There were strengths and limitations to each setting. Better understanding of program adaptation and mediators and moderators to program efficacy are indicated. Future research also needs to continue to explore mechanisms to improve access and long-term outcomes.
Theoretical Studies of Oxidative Addition of E−E Bonds (E = S, Se, Te) to Palladium(0) and Platinum(0) Complexes

The density functional method has been applied to investigate the mechanism and controlling factors of RE−ER (R = H, Me and E = S, Se, Te) oxidative addition to M(PR3‘)2 complexes (where M = Pd, Pt and R‘ = H, Me), which is proposed to be the first step of Pd(0)- and Pt(0)-catalyzed E−E addition to CC and C⋮C bonds. In general, it was shown that the energy of E−E activation correlates with the E−E bonding energy and decreases via the sequence E = S > Se > Te, for all R, R‘ and transition-metal atoms used; the weaker the E−E bond, the smaller the oxidative addition barrier. The exothermicity of this reaction also decreases via the same trend, E = S > Se > Te, and correlates with the decrease in M−ER bond strength. Meanwhile, the E−E activation barrier is found to be higher for M = Pt than for M = Pd, while for all studied R, R‘, and E the reaction is found to be more exothermic for M = Pt than for M = Pd. It was shown that the more the methyl substitution in the systems (both in substrate and the catalyst)...
Coupled and Uncoupled Bending-Torsion Responses of Twin-Tail Buffet

Abstract The effect of coupled and uncoupled bending and torsion modes on flexible twin-tail buffet is considered. This multidisciplinary problem is investigated using three sets of equations on a multi-block grid structure. The first set is the unsteady, compressible, laminar full Navier–Stokes equations which are used for obtaining the flow-filed vector and the aerodynamic loads on the twin tails. The second set is the coupled aeroelastic equations which are used for obtaining the bending and torsional deflections of the twin tails. The third set is the grid-displacement equations which are used for updating the grid coordinates due to the tail deflections. The configuration is pitched at 30° angle of attack and the free-stream Mach number and Reynolds number are 0·3 and 1·25 million, respectively. Keeping the twin tails as rigid surfaces, the problem is solved for the initial flow conditions. Next, the problem is solved for the flexible twin-tail responses due to the unsteady loads produced by the vortex breakdown flow of the delta-wing leading-edge vortex cores. The configuration is investigated for the effect of coupled and uncoupled bending and torsion modes, using two different separation distances of the twin-tail; the inboard and the outboard positions. The computational results are in good agreement with the experimental data.
The Relationship Between Counseling Supervisee Attachment Orientation and Perceived Bond with Supervisor

Clinical supervisors are often at a loss to explain why some supervision relationships promote change while others are fraught with conflict. Supervisee attachment may help supervisors understand supervision relationships. This qualitative study used The Working Alliance Inventory and a modified Relationship Questionnaire to investigate the relationship between supervisee attachment orientation and perceived bond with supervisor over time and within and between experience levels. The participants were 117 Master's level counseling students receiving supervision. The results indicated no difference of attachment orientation for level of supervisee but did indicate a relationship between attachment orientation and perceived bond with the supervisor.
Further evidence for role of leukotrienes as mediators of decidualization in the rat

Abstract Inhibitors of leukotrieens were utilized to investigate the role of leukoteines (LTs) in the induction of decidualization in the rat. Alzet osmotic minipumps, filled with either FPL 55712 (FPL, a specific antagonist of peptidoleukotrienes), nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA, an inhibitor of LT synthesis) or in combination with leukotriene C4 (LTC4) and/or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), were instilled at the ovarian end of uterine horns of day 5 pseudopregnant rats. Intraluminal infusion of FPL or DNGA, for 4 days, induced a dose dependent decrease in the uterine wet weights when compared to that induced by the infusion of their corresponding vehicles (1 μl/h). Furthermore, simultaneous infusion of LTC4 (10 ng/h) with different doses of FPL (1, 0.5, or 0.25 μg/h) produced an increase in uterine weights as compared to that produced by FPL alone. Maximum response, however, was noted when LTC4 (n0 ng/h) was infused with FPL at a rate of 0.5 μg/h. The infusion of LTC4 (10 ng/h) or PGE2 (1 μg/h) with NDGA, at 1 and 5 μg/h, could not overcome its inhibitory effect on decidualization. On the contrary, a combination of LTC4 (10 ng/h) and PGE2 (1 μg/h) was comparable to that induced by the infusion of the vehicle. To determine if the synthesis of PGs and LTs was inhibited by NDGA, one uterine horn was infused with NDGA (5 μg/h) and the other horn with the vehicle. The intrauterine infusion of NDGA for 24 h inhibited the release of PGE2, PGF2α, LTC4 and LTB4 as compared to those released by the vehicle-infused horns. These data suggest that both PGs and LTs are required for the induction and progression of decidualization.
Relation of systemic and local muscle exercise capacity to skeletal muscle characteristics in men with congestive heart failure

OBJECTIVES. The present study was undertaken to further characterize changes in skeletal muscle morphology and histochemistry in congestive heart failure and to determine the relation of these changes to abnormalities of systemic and local muscle exercise capacity. BACKGROUND. Abnormalities of skeletal muscle appear to play a role in the limitation of exercise capacity in congestive heart failure, but information on the changes in muscle morphology and biochemistry and their relation to alterations in muscle function is limited. METHODS. Eighteen men with predominantly mild to moderate congestive heart failure (mean +/- SEM New York Heart Association functional class 2.6 +/- 0.2, ejection fraction 24 +/- 2%) and eight age- and gender-matched sedentary control subjects underwent measurements of peak systemic oxygen consumption (VO2) during cycle ergometry, resistance to fatigue of the quadriceps femoris muscle group and biopsy of the vastus lateralis muscle. RESULTS. Peak VO2 and resistance to fatigue were lower in the patients with heart failure than in control subjects (15.7 +/- 1.2 vs. 25.1 +/- 1.5 ml/min-kg and 63 +/- 2% vs. 85 +/- 3%, respectively, both p < 0.001). Patients had a lower proportion of slow twitch, type I fibers than did control subjects (36 +/- 3% vs. 46 +/- 5%, p = 0.048) and a higher proportion of fast twitch, type IIab fibers (18 +/- 3% vs. 7 +/- 2%, p = 0.004). Fiber cross-sectional area was smaller, and single-fiber succinate dehydrogenase activity, a mitochondrial oxidative marker, was lower in patients (both p < or = 0.034). Likewise, the ratio of average fast twitch to slow twitch fiber cross-sectional area was lower in patients (0.780 +/- 0.06 vs. 1.05 +/- 0.08, p = 0.019). Peak VO2 was strongly related to integrated succinate dehydrogenase activity in patients (r = 0.896, p = 0.001). Peak VO2, resistance to fatigue and strength also correlated significantly with several measures of fiber size, especially of fast twitch fibers, in patients. None of the skeletal muscle characteristics examined correlated with exercise capacity in control subjects. CONCLUSIONS. These results indicate that congestive heart failure is associated with changes in the characteristics of skeletal muscle and local as well as systemic exercise performance. There are fewer slow twitch fibers, smaller fast twitch fibers and lower succinate dehydrogenase activity. The latter finding suggests that mitochondrial content of muscle is reduced in heart failure and that impaired aerobic-oxidative capacity may play a role in the limitation of systemic exercise capacity.
Indexing and Parallel Query Processing Support for Visualizing Climate Datasets

With increasing emphasis on analysis of large-scale scientific data, and with growing dataset sizes, a number of new challenges are arising. Particularly, novel data management solutions are needed, which can work together with the existing tools. This paper examines indexing support for supporting high-level queries (primarily those for sub setting) on array-based scientific datasets. This work is motivated by the limitations arising in visualizing climate datasets (stored in Net CDF), using tools like Para View. We have developed a new indexing strategy, which can help support a variety of sub setting queries over these datasets, including those requiring sub setting over dimensions/coordinates and those involving variable values. Our approach is based on bitmaps, but involves use of two-level indices and careful partitioning, based on query profiles. We also show how our indexing support can be used for sub setting operations executed in parallel. We compare our solutions against a number of other solutions, and demonstrate that our method is more effective.
Natural hazards in South America: In search of a method and a theory

Traditional natural hazard researchers have failed to deal with hazard occurrences in Latin America in a comprehensive and coherent fashion because of their cultural bias and lack of knowledge about the regional implications of hazard conditions.
Effect of host-structure on the charge of europium ion

Abstract This letter describes the nature of rare-earth dopant state in oxides/borates/vanadate hosts. The dopant charge is controlled by host structure, but not by charge-matching. In the preparation of Eu 2+ activated blue phosphor Eu(NO 3 ) 3 is the starting material. Even in the oxidation environment of combustion process Eu 3+ ion gets reduced into Eu 2+ in the blue phosphor synthesis. Synthesis of Eu 3+ activated red phosphor is a straight-forward reaction.
Regulation of Brain Tumor Dispersal by NKCC1 Through a Novel Role in Focal Adhesion Regulation

Glioblastoma (GB) is a highly invasive and lethal brain tumor due to its universal recurrence. Although it has been suggested that the electroneutral Na+-K+-Cl− cotransporter 1 (NKCC1) can play a role in glioma cell migration, the precise mechanism by which this ion transporter contributes to GB aggressiveness remains poorly understood. Here, we focused on the role of NKCC1 in the invasion of human primary glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. NKCC1 expression levels were significantly higher in GB and anaplastic astrocytoma tissues than in grade II glioma and normal cortex. Pharmacological inhibition and shRNA-mediated knockdown of NKCC1 expression led to decreased cell migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Surprisingly, knockdown of NKCC1 in glioma cells resulted in the formation of significantly larger focal adhesions and cell traction forces that were approximately 40% lower than control cells. Epidermal growth factor (EGF), which promotes migration of glioma cells, increased the phosphorylation of NKCC1 through a PI3K-dependant mechanism. This finding is potentially related to WNK kinases. Taken together, our findings suggest that NKCC1 modulates migration of glioma cells by two distinct mechanisms: (1) through the regulation of focal adhesion dynamics and cell contractility and (2) through regulation of cell volume through ion transport. Due to the ubiquitous expression of NKCC1 in mammalian tissues, its regulation by WNK kinases may serve as new therapeutic targets for GB aggressiveness and can be exploited by other highly invasive neoplasms.
The evolving field of endoscopic imaging.

Endoscopy is a visual field. Our ability to effectively manage patients is directly dependent on the image before us. From identifying neoplasia in patients with ulcerative colitis to delineating the border of a lesion prior to endoscopic resection in Barrett’s esophagus, the success of our diagnostic or therapeutic intervention is only as good as what we see. This edition of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of North America is dedicated to the evolving field of endoscopic imaging. The world’s leading experts in this area have written comprehensive articles spanning a variety of modalities from optical coherence tomography and confocal laser endomicroscopy to new digital software enhancement technologies. The role of these technologies in both enhancing screening and surveillance is discussed as well as the emerging role of imaging in endoscopic therapy. Moving one step further into the realm of targeted imaging, part of the edition is dedicated to the role of optical molecular imaging. Indeed, the field of endoscopic imaging is being propelled by parallel advances in engineering, physics, and chemistry as novel, molecule-specific contrast agents are combined with fluorescent endoscopes to identify the particular molecular signature of a cancer and, potentially, predict a patient’s risk of developing cancer. Equally exciting are advances in ultrasound and elastography, which give us textural information—a visual “touch” of a lesion without the surgeon’s need for direct contact. While we move toward novel, targeted contrast agents, older technologies of nonspecific contrast dyes are becoming less frequently used as software-based enhancements seek to provide a “virtual” chromoendoscopic imaging with the push of a button. Last, even routine diagnostic colonoscopy is being viewed from new perspectives: forward, backward, and with an increased focus on reducing cost by predicting polyp histology in real-time.
Histopathologic changes in the testes of rats exposed to dibromoacetic acid

The present report details histopathologic changes in the testis and epididymis of rats gavaged daily for 2 to 79 d with a by-product of water disinfection, dibromoacetic acid (DBAA). On treatment day 2 abnormal retention of Step 19 spermatids was observed in animals given the highest dosage of 250 mg/kg. Additional changes on day 5 included the fusion of mature spermatids and the presence of atypical residual bodies (ARB) in the epithelium and lumen of Stage X-XII seminiferous tubules. By day 9, ARB were seen in most stages of the seminiferous epithelial cycle and in the caput epididymidis. On day 16 distorted sperm heads were recognized in Step 12, and older spermatids, and luminal cytoplasmic debris was found throughout the epididymis. On day 31, there was vacuolation of the Sertoli cell cytoplasm, extensive retention of Step 19 spermatids near the lumen of Stage IX and X tubules, and vesiculation of the acrosomes of late spermatids. Marked atrophy of the seminiferous tubules was present 6 months after 42 doses of 250 mg/kg. ARB and retention of Step 19 spermatids were observed after 31 and 79 doses of 50 mg/kg and increased retention of Step 19 spermatids was seen in several rats dosed with 10 mg/kg. No abnormalities were detected at the dosage of 2 mg/kg. The changes suggest that the testicular effects of DBAA are sequelae to structural and/or functional changes in the Sertoli cell.
Interactive relaxation method for a broad class of integer and continuous nonlinear multiple criteria problems

An interactive decomposition algorithm for solving a broad class of multiple criteria (MC) problems is presented in this paper. On the one hand, the method is designed to solve a broad class of MC problems, including complex ones; i.e., problems with nonlinear objective functions and nonlinear constraints, with continuous and/or integer-valued decision variables, and with an unknown underlying nonlinear preference function. On the other hand, the method is intended to reduce the assessment burden on the decision maker (DM) by simplifying and facilitating the task of making preference assessments and tradeoffs. The method is efficient from a computational standpoint, since the only program that needs to be solved at each iteration is linear in the decision variables. Also the algorithm is capable of producing lower and upper bounds (LB and UB) on the optimal objective value of the MC problem at each iteration, although the DM's preference function is not assumed to be known explicitly. LB and UB can be used to terminate the search prematurely at a satisfactory (“good enough”) solution and, consequently, to reduce the computational time as well as the number of preference assessments that the DM must make. Finally, all the tradeoffs that the DM is required to make are of the form of ordinal paired comparisons, most of which are particularly simple since they involve changes in only two criteria at a time. Also, all the preference assessments are made in the context of feasible solutions only.
Comparison of preload recruitable stroke work, end-systolic pressure-volume and dPdtmax-end-diastolic volume relations as indexes of left ventricular contractile performance in patients undergoing routine cardiac catheterization☆

The end-systolic pressure-volume relation, the relation between stroke work and end-diastolic volume, termed the preload recruitable stroke work relation, and the relation between the peak of the first derivative of left ventricular pressure (dP/dtmax) and end-diastolic volume have been employed as linear indexes of left ventricular contractile performance in laboratory animals. The purpose of this study was to examine the relative utility of these indexes during routine cardiac catheterization in seven human subjects (mean age 48 +/- 18 [SD] years) with a normal left ventriculogram and coronary angiogram. Left ventricular pressure was recorded continuously with a micromanometer catheter, and left ventricular volume was derived from digital subtraction contrast ventriculograms obtained at 30-ms intervals. Transient occlusion of the inferior vena cava with a balloon-tipped catheter was employed to obtain beat to beat reductions in left ventricular pressure and volume over 8.7 +/- 1.7 cardiac cycles. Stroke work declined by 49 +/- 13% during vena caval occlusion, but end-systolic pressure fell by only 26 +/- 11%, and changes in dP/dtmax were small and inconsistent (12 +/- 22%). Consequently, the range of data available for determination of the preload recruitable stroke work relation greatly exceeded that for the end-systolic pressure-volume relation and the dP/dtmax-end-diastolic volume relation, and much less linear extrapolation from the measured data was required to determine the volume-axis intercept. Preload recruitable stroke work relations were highly linear (r = 0.95 +/- 0.07), and much more so than end-systolic pressure-volume relations (r = 0.79 +/- 0.23).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Calcitonin receptor mrna expression in the human prostate

Abstract Objectives A subpopulation of prostate neuroendocrine (NE) cells contain calcitonin (CT). It has been postulated that CT-producing cells in the prostate account for the high CT level in the semen, and may be involved in the regulation of other epithelial cells via a paracrine mechanism. The presence of CT binding sites in the plasma membrane fraction of prostate tissue has been demonstrated by radioligand binding assay. In the present study, we investigated the CT receptor gene expression in the human prostate, a key component of the autocrine/paracrine loop in the CT functional pathway. Methods Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was carried out to evaluate the CT receptor mRNA expression in normal prostate tissue. Subsequent DNA sequencing was used to verify RT-PCR amplified products and to determine the isoform of the receptor. To define the location of the CT receptor expression, nonradioactive in situ hybridization was performed with a digoxigenin-labeled probe complementary to the coding region of the CT receptor mRNA. A polyclonal antibody against CT was used to reveal the CT-secreting cells in the prostate. Results CT receptor mRNA expression was detected in the prostate tissue. Further analysis of the DNA sequence showed that CT receptor expressed in the prostate was the isoform without a 16-amino acid insert in the first intracellular domain. In situ hybridization revealed that CT receptor was present in the prostate NE cells. Immunocytochemical staining of mirror image sections showed that some CT-secreting cells also expressed CT receptor. Conclusions CT receptor expression in the prostate, a key component in the CT functional pathway, is located in subsets of dispersed NE cells (CT secreting and CT nonsecreting), which indicates that prostate CT may play an important role in the autocrine/paracrine regulation of the prostate NE system.
Coupled response of compliant offshore platforms

Abstract A three-dimensional finite element analysis has been used to simulate the coupled static and dynamic behaviour of compliant ocean structures. Nonlinearities which result from large deflections, reduced or zero stiffness in compression, and nonconservative fluid loading are considered. The spatial variation of fluid loading is also addressed. The structures are assumed to be in the Morison regime. Linear wave theory is used and multidirectional seas may be simulated. A variable current profile may be specified and concentrated masses and loads, as well as foundation properties, may be modelled. Updated Lagrangian coordinates and a residual feedback, incremental-iterative, solution is adopted. Viscous relaxation is used to start the static solution of problems with small initial stiffnesses. The dynamic solution is performed in the time domain and uses the Newmark integration scheme. Consistent mass matrices are developed for both beam-column and cable elements. The directionality of the hydrodynamic added mass is accounted for, as is the discontinuity of the mass density for elements which pierce the water surface. Examples are presented of an articulated tower, of a guyed tower, and of a tension leg platform.
Sexual health screening among racially/ethnically diverse young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men

Abstract Purpose Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a crucial element of improving health and reducing disparities, and young men who have sex with men (YMSM) face high rates of both STIs and human immunodeficiency virus. We examined sexual health screening among a diverse sample of adolescent YMSM living in New York City. Methods Between 2009 and 2011, cross-sectional data were collected from 590 YMSM in New York City. Separate multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between sociodemographic, psychosocial, and health and healthcare related factors and two main outcomes: having sought a recent sexual health screening (past 6 months) and having a rectal sexual health screening (lifetime). Results Overall, 46% reported a sexual health screening in the prior 6 months, but only 16% reported ever having a rectal screening for STIs. Rates were higher among ethnic minority YMSM and men who accessed care at clinics. Multivariable results indicated that gay community affiliation, recent unprotected anal sex, and number of lifetime male partners were also associated with seeking a recent screening. Conclusions Though half of the sample reported recent general screening, rates of lifetime rectal screening are low. Efforts to increase screening may focus on improving provider knowledge and guideline adherence, and educating and encouraging YMSM to access sexual health check-ups.
Levels of the Mitochondrial Endonuclease during Rat Cardiac Development Implicate a Role for the Enzyme in Repair of Oxidative Damage in Mitochondrial DNA

Mammalian heart mitochondria (MT) contain a potent Mg2+-dependent DNA endonuclease that becomes soluble once isolated mitochondria are disrupted using detergent. The level of this endonuclease was previously found to be markedly elevated in adult rat heart compared to other adult rat tissues. Among tissues, the level of the MT endonuclease does not appear to be correlated with the rate of MT DNA replication but rather with the rate of oxidative metabolism [Houmiel, K. L., Gerschenson, M. and Low, R. L., 1991. Biochimica Biophysica Acta 1079: 197-202]. In the present study, the level of the endonuclease has been quantitated both during rat cardiac development, from gestational day 18 through adulthood, and in cultured rat heart myoblasts. Surprisingly, the specific activity of the MT endonuclease in fetal and newborn mitochondria is high. The values are greater than 50% of that seen in the adult even though the mitochondria at this period of heart development are few and structurally disorganized. Remarkably, there is a burst of endonuclease activity at day 2 which accompanies a similar, transient elevation of respiratory complex I and IV activities. At later times, the endonuclease activity gradually increases until adulthood and correlates with steady increases in MT DNA and DNA polymerase-γ. In cultured myoblasts, the level of the endonuclease increases about seven-fold as the growing cells reach confluency and differentiate into myotubes. These variations in the specific activity of the endonuclease, when considered along with other properties of the enzyme suggest that the endonuclease may serve a role in the removal of oxidative damage in MT DNA incurred from respiration.
The Palin Effect and Vote Preference in the 2008 Presidential Election

Previous studies suggest that vice presidential candidates have little impact on the presidential vote. Using data from the 2008 National Annenberg Election Survey (NAES), the author examines the extent to which the vice presidential selections from the two major parties had an impact on the presidential vote in 2008. The results show that vice presidential nominees’ favorability ratings were significantly related to vote preference. In addition, the results show that the contributions of the vice presidential nominee ratings on vote choice varied across the campaign, suggesting that campaign events primed the importance of the vice presidential candidates at different moments. Ultimately, Governor Sarah Palin did not help the Republican ticket.
Conservative initiation of antimicrobial treatment in ICU patients with suspected ICU-acquired infection: more haste less speed.

Purpose of review To review the recent literature supporting the idea that in some patients suspected of having a new ICU-acquired infection, antibiotics can be withheld until evidence to confirm diagnosis is obtained.
Computer modeling of muscle phosphofructokinase kinetics

Abstract The kinetics of the phosphofructokinase reaction were studied by computer modeling. A general random order, two-state allosteric model, of which the Monod-Wyman-Changeux model is a limiting case, was found to most accurately reproduce the experimental observations of Pettigrew & Frieden (1979 a,b ). A simplified model with Hill coefficients was found to fit almost as well. In these models substrates bind preferentially to and stabilize the enzyme in the R state, and ATPH 3− the inhibitory species, binds preferentially to and stabilizes the enzyme in the T state. Enzymatic activity is regulated by conversion from the R to the T state, which is effected by protonation, especially of the uncomplexed enzyme, but the experimental data are inadequate for accurate estimation of the pK a , of the enzyme. Random order binding of substrates is an important cause of sigmoidal kineticS Additional experiments that would aid in the discrimination among rival models are described.
Determination of d- and l-aspartate in amino acid mixtures by high-performance liquid chromatography after derivatization with a chiral adduct of o-phthaldialdehyde

A sensitive and convenient method for the simultaneous determination of D- and L-aspartic acid in amino acid mixtures is described. The method involves derivatization of the mixture with a chiral fluorogen, followed by high-performance liquid chromatography on a reverse-phase column. The fluorogen used is an adduct of o-phthaldialdehyde with an optically active thiol, N-acetyl-L-cysteine. The sensitivity and accuracy of this method is similar to that using adducts of o-phthaldialdehyde with the achiral thiol, 2-mercaptoethanol. Five picomoles of D-aspartate can be accurately detected in the presence of a 100-fold excess of L-aspartate with a total analysis time (including derivatization) of 10 min.
Overview of bariatric surgery.

To know what is new, one must know what is old. Bariatric surgery has developed along three generic lines: malabsorptive, malabsorptive/restrictive, and purely restrictive. In addition, other metabolic surgical procedures—operations on normal organs to achieve a secondary, metabolic goal—have been used and are being tested. The new bariatric surgeon, in ever increasing numbers, is exemplified by the highly skilled minimally invasive surgeon, trained and experienced in the unique principles of pre-, intra-, and postoperative management of the obese patient. This overview explores seminal approaches in bariatric surgery; discusses new operations available to the bariatric surgeon; summarizes the prevalence data for morbid obesity; highlights the intrinsic medical, social, and economic problems of this disease; and offers predictions regarding the next decade in this field.
Recent areal changes in US forested wetlands

This study summarizes US Forest Service Resource Bulletin data to estimate forested wetlands areal changes. The Forest Resource Bulletins used field-data surveys to estimate the area of different forest land plant associations, including those that are typically defined as forested wetlands. The information includes changes since 1940 on national and state levels. These figures may help judge the success of some recent efforts by private and public agencies to protect wetlands.
Pharmacokinetic evaluation of combined duloxetine and fluvoxamine dosing in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers

Background/Aims The effect of CYP1A2 inhibition in CYP2D6 PMs was assessed on duloxetine steady-state Cmax and AUC using fluvoxamine. The aim was to study dual CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 inhibition without introducing confounding effects of two inhibitors. Methods A multicenter, open-label, multiple-dose study in 15 healthy CYP2D6 PMs. Duloxetine 40 mg BID was given on Days 1–18 and once in the morning of Day 19. Fluvoxamine was dosed in the evening as 50 mg QD on Days 5–6, 100 mg QD on Days 7–20, and 50 mg QD on Days 21–22. The pharmacokinetic profile on Days 5 and 19 and safety profile (vital signs, ECGs, lab tests) were assessed. Results At steady state on Day 19, duloxetine's AUC and Cmax were increased 540% and 471%, respectively, versus duloxetine on Day 5, an increase similar in magnitude to that previously measured during CYP1A2 inhibition alone. Adverse events with duloxetine were typical and not worse at higher concentrations. Nausea and headache were most commonly reported. Conclusions Duloxetine was generally well tolerated, even during potent inhibition. CYP1A2 inhibition is the largest component of dual inhibition. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, P37–P37; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2004.12.036
In the eyes of the beholder? The role of dispositional trust in judgments of procedural and interactional fairness

Previous research on the antecedents of people’s judgments of procedural and interactional fairness has focused primarily on situational factors. Across three studies we find that dispositional tendencies, in particular people’s general propensity to trust others, also influence fairness perceptions. People who were more trusting had more positive perceptions of procedural and interactional fairness, even when they were exposed to identical fairness information. We also found that dispositional trust in particular predicted fairness perceptions whereas other individual difference variables reflecting general positivity did not. Moreover, in all three studies, perceptions of fairness mediated the positive relationship between dispositional trust and work attitudes (e.g., organizational commitment), suggesting that one reason people who are more trusting exhibit more positive work attitudes is because they are more likely to believe they are treated fairly. Implications for the justice and trust literatures are discussed.
Enhanced Adsorption of Ammonia on Metal-Organic Framework/Graphite Oxide Composites: Analysis of Surface Interactions

Composites of the metal-organic framework (MOF), MOF-5, and graphite oxide (GO) with different ratios of the two components are prepared and tested in ammonia removal under dry conditions. The parent and composite materials are characterized before and after exposure to ammonia by sorption of N2, X-ray diffraction, thermal analyses, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The results show a synergetic effect resulting in an increase in the ammonia uptake compared to the parent materials. It is linked to enhanced dispersive forces in the pore space of the composites. Additionally, ammonia interacts with zinc oxide tetrahedra via hydrogen bonding and is intercalated between the layers of GO. Retention of a large quantity of ammonia eventually leads to a collapse of the MOF-5 structure in the composites. The effect resembles that observed when MOF-5 is exposed to water. Taking into account the similarity of ammonia and water molecules, it is hypothesized that ammonia causes a destruction of the MOF-5 and composite structure as a result of its hydrogen bonding with the zinc oxide clusters.