cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interrogation of Downstream Calcium Responses via Optogenetic and Mechanical Stimulation in C. elegans

Optogenetic methods have contributed substantially to the experimental analysis of neural function and behavior. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, a commonly used model organism for studying neural circuits, optogenetic stimulation of several neuromuscular networks has induced identical behavioral responses to those resulting from mechanical stimulation. This has lead to the acceptance of optogenetic methods as physiologically relevant stimuli. Despite the similarities in macroscopic phenomenology, the calcium signal in downstream neurons resulting from optogenetic stimulation has yet to be investigated and compared to the calcium signal in downstream neurons resulting from environmental stimulation. The optogenetic channel, channelrhodopsin-2, will be expressed under the control of the mec-4 sensory neuron promoter in C. elegans. Additionally, a synthetic calcium sensor, RCaMP1h, will be expressed separately under the control of a specific downstream interneuron promoter, dbl-1, in order to compare the calcium signaling in this interneuron, AVA, resulting from optogenetic and mechanical stimulation. Using software we developed, these freely swimming worms will be tracked and optogenetically stimulated using a light source localized to the sensory neurons of interest. Traditional mechanical stimulation with an eyelash will be carried out in tandem. The downstream calcium responses observed during each stimulation will be compared to determine if the optogenetic stimulation resulted in the same physiological response as mechanical stimulation. This study will provide insight into the relevance of optogenetics as a physiological probe of neural networks.
A retrospective study on the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

A retrospective analysis of 23 patients was undertaken to evaluate the outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) over a preceding 6-year time frame. Chart review and data analyses were undertaken evaluating pulmonary arterial hypertension pharmacotherapy versus the same therapy with the addition of PR. Analysis included 23 patients who had a mean pulmonary artery pressure of 36.6 while on therapy and who had initial six-minute walk tests (6MWTs) ranging between 54 and 396 meters. Outcomes included 6MWTs and Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire. There was no improvement in 6MWT postpharmacotherapy. Patients with low 6MWT 250 meters had a significant improvement of 52.55 meters, documenting the utility of PR in patients with PH. PH patients are increasingly seen in PR clinics as they share many characteristics present in chronic respiratory disease states. There is increasing literature supporting the utility of PR in this population. We have found that patients with 6MWTs as low as <250 meters are also candidates for PR and can demonstrate substantial benefits as measured using the 6MWTs.
Three classes of mouse H-2 messenger RNA distinguished by analysis of cDNA clones.

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is composed of a set of linked genes encoding proteins involved in the host's immune response1. A subset of these proteins are the classical transplantation antigens, which are responsible for rapid allograft rejection and are involved in the associative recognition of foreign antigens by cytotoxic T cells1,2. Three different genetic loci coding for the transplantation antigens in humans (HLA-A, -B and -C) and in mice (H–2K, D and L) have been identified3,4; they are highly polymorphic1. The recent molecular cloning of HLA5,6 and H–27,8 cDNA sequences provide the basis for detailed characterization of the genetic organization and expression of the MHC. We report here the identification, by analysis of cDNA clones, of at least three distinct classes of H-2 messenger RNAs that can be differentiated on the basis of their disparate 3′-non-translated regions, and describe an unusual sequence arrangement in one class of H–2-like molecule.
Burst firing of oxytocin neurons in male rat hypothalamic slices.

Abstract Burst firing and single spike activity play different roles in the modulation of local neuronal circuit activity and neurosecretion. In hypothalamic oxytocin (OT) neurons in vivo, burst firing is associated with pulsatile secretion of OT in the milk ejection reflex, and can be observed in slices from both immature and lactating rats in vitro. Whether OT neurons from male rats also possess burst firing capability is still an open question. To examine this possibility, whole-cell patch clamp recordings were made in supraoptic nucleus OT neurons in brain slices from male rats. In low Ca2+ medium, the α1-adrenoceptor agonist, phenylephrine evoked bursts that were highly similar to those from lactating rats in vivo and in vitro: explosive onset, short-duration, quickly reaching peak firing rate and displaying an exponential decay in returning to the pre-burst rate. During bursts, spike durations increased, and spike amplitudes decreased, while riding on an arc of depolarization around peak rate. In comparison to those from lactating rats in vitro, the rising phase of male bursts was more rapid, the decay phase was slower, and the rising phase of the spike after hyperpolarization was faster. No significant differences, however, were seen in burst characteristics that are most important in determining the amount of peptide release: burst amplitudes (the number of spikes in a burst), firing frequency within bursts or peak firing rate. Thus, we conclude that OT neurons in males are capable of burst firing highly similar to that seen in lactating rats.
The impact of Michigan's text messaging restriction on motor vehicle crashes

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Michigan's universal text messaging restriction (effective July 2010) across different age groups of drivers and crash severities. Methods Changes in monthly crash rates and crash trends per 10,000 licensed drivers aged 16, 17, 18, 19, 20–24, and 25–50 years were estimated using time series analysis for three levels of crash severity: (1) fatal/disabling injury; (2) nondisabling injury; and (3) possible injury/property damage only (PDO) crashes for the period 2005–2012. Analyses were adjusted for crash rates of drivers' aged 65–99 years, Michigan's unemployment rate, and gasoline prices. Results After the introduction of the texting restriction, significant increases were observed in crash rates and monthly trends in fatal/disabling injury crashes and nondisabling injury crashes, and significant decreases in possible injury/PDO crashes. The magnitude of the effects where significant changes were observed was small. Conclusions The introduction of the texting restriction was not associated with a reduction in crash rates or trends in severe crash types. On the contrary, small increases in the most severe crash types (fatal/disabling and nondisabling injury) and small decreases in the least severe crash types (possible injury/PDO) were observed. These findings extend the literature on the effects of cell phone restrictions by examining the effects of the restriction on newly licensed adolescent drivers and adult drivers separately by crash severity.
Patterns of metabolism in embryonic reptiles.

Abstract VdotO2 of eggs of the turtleEmydura macquarii, the crocodilianAlligator mississipiensis, and the tuataraSphenodon punctatus, were measured throughout incubation.E. macquarii andA. mississipiensis, species in which hatching synchrony may be important, show a decline inVdotO2 prior to hatching (‘peaked’ pattern). This is similar to the pattern shown by ratite birds, where the decline period may be variable and facilitates hatching synchrony. The same interpretation is used here for reptiles. Hatching synchrony seems unimportant inS. puntatus, no decline inVdotO2 is observed, and the pattern ofVdotO2 is similar to that shown by most precocial birds. Developmental asynchrony in reptilian nests,e.g., E. macquarii, probably results from temperature differences within the nest. Turtles with nests that are unlikely to experience developmental asynchrony, show truncation of the ‘peaked’ pattern, similar to the usual avian precocial pattern, or even extreme truncation approaching that of altricial birds. A pattern of ontogeneticVdotO2 in snakes (which have precocious young) similar to that in birds with altricial young may indicate a basic developmental differences in snakes.
Modelling texture evolution in equal channel angular extrusion of bcc materials: effects of processing route and initial texture

A modelling investigation of texture evolution in equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) of bcc materials with a 90° die via routes A, BA, BC and C is performed using a visco-plastic self-consistent model and assuming idealized simple shear deformation at the intersection plane of the die channels. For each route, the effect of initial texture on texture evolution is examined by simulations from a random, sheet or wire initial texture. The characteristic orientation fibres as found in a single pass are also evident in the multi-pass textures, but the orientation distributions along the fibres are more complete in route A than in the other routes. The initial texture effect persists in the cross shear routes, more so in route A than BC and then BA, up to four to five passes, and afterwards the effect is insignificant and mainly on the texture strength. In route C, however, the initial texture effect remains for every pass studied due to the cyclic shear reversal in every two passes and thus there is retention of the initial texture after even-numbered passes, but as discussed this may not be true in actual ECAE deformation. It is suggested that choice of processing route is the more effective means of controlling texture at a high number of passes. The significance of these texture results is demonstrated by plastic anisotropy seen in texture-based yield loci. The predicted slip activities of the {110} 111 and {112} 111 slip systems are discussed.
Effect of nonfat milk on the utilization of carotene and vitamin A

Abstract Rats fed 60 μg. daily of carotene homogenized in nonfat milk deposited significantly more vitamin A in their livers than rats fed the same amount of carotene homogenized in water. When 32 μg. carotene was fed daily, there was no difference in liver storage of vitamin A between the water and milk homogenates. When vitamin A per se was fed, there was no significant difference in vitamin A storage between the milk and water homogenates except for reconstituted nonfat milk which significantly lowered liver storage of vitamin A when 52 μg. of vitamin A was fed.
Carboplatin-induced oxidative stress in rat cochlea

Carboplatin is currently being used in the clinic against a variety of human cancers. However, high dose carboplatin chemotherapy resulted in ototoxicity in cancer patients. This is the first study to show carboplatin-induced oxidative stress response in the cochlea of rat. Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups of six animals each and treated as follows: (1) control (normal saline, i.p.) and (2) carboplatin (256 mg/kg, i.p.). Animals in both groups were sedated with ketamine/xylazine and auditory brainstem-evoked responses were recorded before and 4 days after treatments. The animals were sacrificed on the fourth day and cochleae were harvested and analyzed. A significant elevation of the hearing threshold shifts was noted at clicks, 8, 16, and 32 kHz tone burst stimuli following carboplatin administration. Carboplatin significantly increased nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels, xanthine oxidase and manganese-superoxide dismutase activities in the cochlea indicating enhanced flux of free radicals. Cochlear glutathione levels, antioxidant enzyme activities such as copper zinc-superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase and enzyme protein levels were significantly depleted 4 days after carboplatin treatment. The data suggest that carboplatin induced free radical generation and antioxidant depletion, and caused oxidative injury in the cochleae of rats.
Influence of current density and pH on electrokinetics

Abstract Two series of electrokinetic experiments have been conducted on kaolinite to study the effects of current density and influent pH on electrokinetic processing. In the first series, eleven tests were conducted at different current densities ranging from 0.123 mA/cm 2 (10 mA) to 0.615 mA/cm 2 (50 mA) using distilled water as the influent. In the second series, ten tests were conducted with constant current densities of 0.123 mA/cm 2 (10 mA) and at different influent pH of 2, 4, 8, 10 and 12. In all cases, the soil was initially mixed with the influent. Results from the first series showed that the flow rate increases as the current density increases. On the other hand, increasing the current density reduced the time needed for the acid front generated at the anode to reach the cathode. In tests with different influent pH, results indicated a gradual increase in electro-osmotic flow between pH of 2 to 10 and a sharp increase from 10 to 12. We also noticed that pH of the cathode compartment increased at the early stage of testing and then started to decrease with time for tests with influent pH ranging from 2 to 10. At the same time, the flow rate started to decrease with time. However, this was not the case for tests with influent pH of 12. The pH of the cathode compartment remained high and the flow rate was constant throughout the testing period. Increasing current density resulted in a slight increase in the energy expenditure for the same number of pore volume. However, increasing the influent pH resulted in a large reduction of the energy expenditure for the same number of pore volume. All tests have been duplicated and similar results were achieved.
Hearing Loss in Turner Syndrome

A retrospective study was undertaken to answer the following questions: Is the sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in Turner syndrome progressive? Can the occurrence of hearing loss be explained by the parental origin of the intact X chromosome? Twenty-four individuals recruited through the Turner Syndrome Society completed a questionnaire and submitted sufficient medical records to determine their otologic status. The majority (21/24) have had problematic otitis media (OM), and two thirds (16/24) have SNHL. In seven of the Turner subjects (age range: 12 to 51 years), gradual progressive SNHL began in late childhood or early adulthood. Molecular techniques showed no correlation between parental origin of the retained X chromosome and hearing status in 17 Turner subjects and at least one of their parents. SNHL and frequent OM appear to be independent variables that are both present in Turner syndrome. It is postulated that the presence of unpaired genes on the X chromosome may account for hearing loss and other phenotypic abnormalities seen in this syndrome.
Influence of organic-mineral aggregates on microbial degradation of the dinoflagellate Scrippsiella trochoidea

Abstract Aggregation of particulate organic matter (POM) and mineral grains may result in physical protection of organic matter (OM). To test this, phytoplankton cells of the dinoflagellate Scrippsiella trochoidea were inoculated with a natural bacterial assemblage and incubated with or without the clay montmorillonite. Within 5 h, aggregation of phytoplankton OM and clay resulted in transfer of the majority (∼80%) of OM into the >1.6 g cm −3 density fraction. Degradation of particulate organic carbon (POC), particulate nitrogen (PN), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and dissolved and particulate total hydrolyzable amino acids (THAA), were modeled with a multi-G approach. Quantity of resistant OM was between two and four times larger during clay incubation relative to clay-free incubation. The two incubations did not exhibit significant differences in degradation state of particulate amino acids nor were there indications of preferential sorption of basic amino acids. The results suggest that a considerable fraction of phytoplankton OM can become resistant, at least on a timescale of weeks, mostly due to aggregation of POM and clay mineral grains.
Constructing an Effective Neutrinoless Double-Beta Decay Operator in the Shell Model

We are developing a formalism to generate effective neutrinoless double-beta decay (0νββ) operators within the shell model. We use lighter nuclei (A = 8,10) as a laboratory. We start with the A=6 system where the wavefunctions are generated using the No-Core Shell Model (NCSM) with the CD-Bonn potential in a relatively large space. Thereafter, both the 0νββ operator and the two-nucleon interaction are renormalized to the p-shell using the Lee-Suzuki transformation scheme. These renormalized p-shell operator and interaction are then used in the A = 8 system and compared with the 'full' result (in the large space). Here we present preliminary results for the 8He–8Be transition. Also worth mentioning is the fact that we are simultaneously evaluating other renormalization schemes.
Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Ischemic Stroke Risk The Northern Manhattan Stroke Study

Background and Purpose—Physical activity reduces the risk of premature death and cardiovascular disease, but the relationship to stroke is less well studied. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between leisure-time physical activity and ischemic stroke in an urban, elderly, multiethnic population. Methods—The Northern Manhattan Stroke Study is a population-based incidence and case-control study. Case subjects had first ischemic stroke, and control subjects were derived through random-digit dialing with 1:2 matching for age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Physical activity was recorded through a standardized in-person interview regarding the frequency and duration of 14 activities over the 2 prior weeks. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals after adjustment for medical and socioeconomic confounders. Results—Over 30 months, 369 case subjects and 678 control subjects were enrolled. Mean age was 69.9±12 years; 57% were women, ...
Economies in Central Power Service as Illustrated by the Duke Power System

This paper invites the attention of the engineering profession to the advantages and economies which may be obtained by coordinating both hydro and steam power stations of various kinds, and electric transmission and distribution lines serving a large industrial territory in a unified and centrally controlled system. For illustration, a general description of the generating and distribution system of the Duke Power Company, operating in the Piedmont section of the Carolinas, is given.
Assessing the ability of sequence-based methods to provide functional insight within membrane integral proteins: a case study analyzing the neurotransmitter/Na+ symporter family

Efforts to predict functional sites from globular proteins is increasingly common; however, the most successful of these methods generally require structural insight. Unfortunately, despite several recent technological advances, structural coverage of membrane integral proteins continues to be sparse. ConSequently, sequence-based methods represent an important alternative to illuminate functional roles. In this report, we critically examine the ability of several computational methods to provide functional insight within two specific areas. First, can phylogenomic methods accurately describe the functional diversity across a membrane integral protein family? And second, can sequence-based strategies accurately predict key functional sites? Due to the presence of a recently solved structure and a vast amount of experimental mutagenesis data, the neurotransmitter/Na+ symporter (NSS) family is an ideal model system to assess the quality of our predictions. The raw NSS sequence dataset contains 181 sequences, which have been aligned by various methods. The resultant phylogenetic trees always contain six major subfamilies are consistent with the functional diversity across the family. Moreover, in well-represented subfamilies, phylogenetic clustering recapitulates several nuanced functional distinctions. Functional sites are predicted using six different methods (phylogenetic motifs, two methods that identify subfamily-specific positions, and three different conservation scores). A canonical set of 34 functional sites identified by Yamashita et al. within the recently solved LeuTAa structure is used to assess the quality of the predictions, most of which are predicted by the bioinformatic methods. Remarkably, the importance of these sites is largely confirmed by experimental mutagenesis. Furthermore, the collective set of functional site predictions qualitatively clusters along the proposed transport pathway, further demonstrating their utility. Interestingly, the various prediction schemes provide results that are predominantly orthogonal to each other. However, when the methods do provide overlapping results, specificity is shown to increase dramatically (e.g., sites predicted by any three methods have both accuracy and coverage greater than 50%). The results presented herein clearly establish the viability of sequence-based bioinformatic strategies to provide functional insight within the NSS family. As such, we expect similar bioinformatic investigations will streamline functional investigations within membrane integral families in the absence of structure.
Differential subcellular localization of forward and feedback interareal inputs to parvalbumin expressing GABAergic neurons in rat visual cortex

In rat visual cortex, forward and feedback interareal pathways innervate both pyramidal and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic (Johnson and Burkhalter [1996] J. Comp. Neurol. 368:383-398). GABAergic neurons consist of different cell types of which the largest group expresses parvalbumin (PV; Gonchar and Burkhalter [1997] Cereb. Cortex 4:347-358). Here, we report that PV neurons in layers 2/3 are synaptic targets of forward and feedback projections between area 17 and the lateromedial area (LM) of rat visual cortex. In both forward and feedback pathways, approximately 90% of axon terminals in layer 2/3 labeled by tracing with biotinylated dextran amine formed synapses with PV-negative profiles. In both pathways, most of these profiles resembled dendritic spines. Although there were no differences in the innervation of PV-negative targets, the two pathways differed in the innervation of PV-positive neurons. In each pathway, approximately 10% of terminals formed synapses with PV-positive profiles. However, in the forward pathway, the size of the contacted PV-positive profiles was larger than in the feedback pathway. Moreover, in the forward pathway, axon terminals on PV-positive profiles were larger, contained more mitochondria and docked synaptic vesicles than feedback synapses on PV neurons. Our results show that PV neurons provide a major target for area 17 LM forward and feedback pathways terminating in upper layers. In each pathway, the proportion of axons contacting PV neurons is similar. However, both pathways differ in the subcellular localization and morphology of synapses on PV neurons. These asymmetries may contribute to the inequality in the strength of disynaptic inhibition evoked by forward and feedback inputs (Shao and Burkhalter [1996] J. Neurosci. 16:7353-7365).
An automated system for infection control.

Hospitals are becoming increasingly aware of the problem of nosocomial infections, Improved infection control techniques repeatedly used by an infection surveillance officer who works closely with all departments of the hospital have given hospitals the potential to reduce overall infection rates. However, infection control is but one duty of the surveillance officer; she must teach infection control reduction and reporting to all affected departments; correlate data from results of patient cultures with the laboratory and physician; instigate measures to control specific infections and to avoid or eliminate epidemics; gather and evaluate data on colony counts throughout the hospital; and compile reports for review by the infection control committee.
Maltodextrin Utilization Plays a Key Role in the Ability of Group A Streptococcus To Colonize the Oropharynx

Analysis of multiple group A Streptococcus (GAS) genomes shows that genes encoding proteins involved in carbohydrate utilization comprise some 15% of the core GAS genome. Yet there is a limited understanding of how carbohydrate utilization contributes to GAS pathogenesis. Previous genome-wide GAS studies led us to a focused investigation of MalE, a putative maltodextrin-binding protein. Analysis of 28 strains of 22 distinct M protein serotypes showed that MalE is highly conserved among diverse GAS strains. malE transcript levels were significantly increased during growth in human saliva compared to growth in a chemically defined glucose-containing medium or a nutrient-rich medium. MalE was accessible to antibody binding, indicating that it is expressed on the GAS cell surface. Moreover, growth in human saliva appeared to increase MalE surface expression compared to growth in a nutrient-rich medium. Analysis of a ΔmalE isogenic mutant strain revealed decreased growth in human saliva compared to wild-type GAS. Radiolabeled carbohydrate binding assays showed that MalE was required for the binding of maltose but not glucose. The ΔmalE isogenic mutant strain colonized a lower percentage of GAS-challenged mice compared to wild-type and genetically complemented strains. Furthermore, decreased numbers of CFU were recovered from mice infected with the ΔmalE strain compared to those infected with wild-type GAS. These data demonstrate that maltodextrin acquisition is likely to be a key factor in the ability of GAS to successfully infect the oropharynx. Further investigation into carbohydrate transport and metabolism pathways may yield novel insights into GAS pathogenesis.
Statistical Thermodynamics of Random Networks

Polymeric networks exhibiting high elasticity consist, typically, of linear chains several hundred bonds in length joined at their ends to $\phi $-functional junctions $(\phi >2)$. For random unconstrained chains of this length, the density distribution of chain vectors $r$ is Gaussian in satisfactory approximation. The chains interpenetrate copiously in the network; the domain described by the set of $\phi $ junctions that are topological neighbours of a given junction encompasses many (20-100) spatial neighbours. A phantom network is expressly defined as a hypothetical one whose chains may move freely through one another; the chains act exclusively by introducing a force that is proportional to the distance between each pair of junctions so connected. The following results of James & Guth are rederived for a Gaussian phantom network using a simplified version of their procedure: (1) the mean values $\overline{r}$ of the individual chain vectors are linear functions of the tensor $\lambda $ of the principal extension ratios specifying the macroscopic strain, (2) fluctuations $\Delta r=r-\overline{r}$ about these mean values are Gaussian, and (3) the mean-square fluctuations depend only on the structure of the network and not on the strain. Additionally, we show (4) that the distribution of the average vectors $\overline{r}$ is Gaussian, and (5) that $\langle (\Delta r)^{2}\rangle =(2/\phi)\langle r^{2}\rangle \_{0}$, a result obtained previously by Graessley. It follows from (1) and (3) that the transformation of chain vectors $r$ of the phantom network is not affine in $\lambda $, and hence that junctions exchange neighbours with strain. In real networks, the mutual interpenetration of chains pendent at a given junction must obstruct this process of local rearrangement of junctions; the transformation of chain vectors may therefore be more nearly affine in $\lambda $, especially when the network is undiluted. The elastic free energy derived for a phantom network of any functionality and degree of imperfection reduces to $\Delta A\_{\text{e1}}=\frac{1}{2}\xi kT(I\_{1}-3)$, where $I\_{1}$ = trace $(\lambda ^{T}\lambda)$ is the first invariant of the strain and $\xi $ is the cycle rank of the network. If the fluctuations of junctions in a real network are suppressed for the reasons stated, the elastic free energy is $\Delta A\_{\text{e1}}^{\ast}=\xi (1-2/\phi)^{-1}\frac{1}{2}kT(I\_{1}-3)-(2\xi /\phi)^{-1}kT$ln $(V/V^{0})$, where $V$ and $V^{0}$ are the actual and reference volumes, respectively. The expected trend from $\Delta A\_{\text{e1}}^{\ast}$ to $\Delta A\_{\text{e1}}$ with dilution may account, qualitatively at least, for the effect of dilution on the stress-strain relation. A similar trend with extension may explain the familiar departure of the observed tension-elongation relation from theory.
Normal multimodal logics

This paper studies what we call normal multimodal logics, which are general modal systems with an arbitrary set of normal modal operators. We emphasize the importance of non-simple systems, for which some interaction axioms are considered. A list of such acceptable axioms is proposed, among which the induction axiom has a special behavior. The class of multimodal logics that can be built with these axioms generalizes many existing modal, temporal, dynamic and epistemic systems, and could also suggest new formalizations using modal logics. The main result is a general determination theorem for these multimodal systems, which establishes a correspondence between our axioms and conditions over Kripke frames; this should avoid the need for showing determination each time a new system is considered.
Evaluation of anhedonia with the Snaith–Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) in adult outpatients with major depressive disorder

Abstract Anhedonia or inability to experience pleasure not only is a core symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD), but also is identified as an important component of the positive valence system in the NIMH Research Domain Criteria. The Snaith–Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) has been developed for the assessment of hedonic experience or positive valence, but has not been well-studied in depressed outpatient populations. The current study examined the reliability and validity of the SHAPS using a sample of adult outpatients with treatment resistant MDD. Data for the current study were obtained from 122 adult outpatients with a diagnosis of MDD and non-response to adequate treatment with an SSRI and who participated in Project TReatment with Exercise Augmentation for Depression (TREAD). A Principal Components Analysis was used to define the dimensionality of the SHAPS. Convergent and discriminant validity were evaluated via correlations of the SHAPS total score with “gold standard” measures of depression severity and quality of life. The SHAPS was found to have high internal consistency (Cronbach's coefficient α = .82). A Principal Components Analysis suggests that the SHAPS is mainly “unidimensional” and limited to hedonic experience among adult outpatients with MDD. Convergent and discriminant validity were assessed by examining the Spearman rank-order correlation coefficient between the SHAPS total score and the HRSD 17 ( r s = 0.22, p 30 ( r s = 0.26, p 30 ( r s = 0.23, p 16 ( r s = 0.22, p 16 ( r s = 0.17, p r s = −0.32, p r s = 0.44, p r s = 0.38, p 30 . The current study shows that the SHAPS is a reliable and valid instrument to assess hedonic experience or positive valence in adult outpatients with MDD and provides a broader assessment of this important domain.
Programmable modified-signed-digit addition module based on binary logic gates

A new binary logic based modified-signed-digit (MSD) adder is proposed. By encoding MSD digits in pairs of binary bits, each of the four MSD transforms can be represented by two cascaded binary logic operations. This leads to the design of a compact and integrated pro- grammable MSD addition module. The three operation steps in the MSD addition can be realized using this same module simply by programming the decoding masks. © 1999 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers. (S0091-3286(99)00103-8)
An Integer Linear Programming Approach to Database Design

Existing index selection tools rely on heuristics to efficiently search within the large space of alternative solutions and to minimize the overhead of using the query optimizer for cost estimation. Index selection heuristics, despite being practical, are hard to analyze and formally compute how close they get to the optimal solution. In this paper we propose a model for index selection based on integer linear programming (ILP). The ILP formulation enables a wealth of combinatorial optimization techniques for providing quality guarantees, approximate solutions and even for computing optimal solutions. We present a system architecture for ILP-based index selection, in the context of commercial database systems. Our ILP-based approach offers higher solution quality, efficiency and scalability without sacrificing any of the precision offered by existing index selection tools.
Organoboranes for synthesis. 1 : Protonolysis of trialkylboranes. A convenient non-catalytic conversion of alkenes into saturated compounds via hydroboration-protonolysis

Abstract The protonolysis of trialkylboranes with carboxylic acids proceeds very rapidly for the first group, somewhat slower for the second, but requires elevated temperatures for removal of the third. A close examination of the protonolysis of representative symmetrical, as well as mixed trialkylboranes, reveals that the steric requirements of the alkyl groups attached to boron play an important role in the rate. Secondary alkyl groups protonolyze less readily than primary alkyl groups. More hindered alkyl groups are still more resistant. Since the hydroboration-protonolysis sequence involves relatively mild conditions, this procedure can be applied for hydrogenating olefinic derivatives containing labile groups, such as active sulfur, halogen and nitrogen functionalities. The stereochemistry of protonolysis has been established via deuteroboration of norbornene and deuterolysis of the product. It is evident that protonolysis proceeds with retention of configuration at the migrating carbon. Partially alkylated boranes can be used for hydroboration-protonolysis with improved regioselectivity. Subsequent protonolysis of the resulting mixed trialkylboranes provides the desired alkanes in good yields. Products sensitive to the action of hot acetic acid offer difficulties. For example, when this procedure was applied to the preparation of l-menthene from d-limonene, the product was racemic.
Notification based S-CSCF load balancing in IMS networks

The Serving Call Session Control Function (S-CSCF) is the main node in the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) signaling plane. The S-CSCF, which acts as both a SIP server and registrar, is assigned to serve end users for the duration of their connection to the IMS network. The assignment of users to an S-CSCF is performed by the Interrogating CSCF (I-CSCF) during the user SIP agent registration. The I-CSCF assigns the S-CSCF based on the capabilities required in the user profile. The 3GGP technical specification does not require the I-CSCF to consider the S-CSCF load balancing. This assignment scheme can lead to driving some of the S-CSCF nodes in the network into overload while others are still under-utilized. In this paper we present an S-CSCF assignment scheme that takes into consideration the target S-CSCF current load. The proposed mechanism is shown to evenly distribute the users between available S-CSCF in the network during simulation.
Order-configurable programmable power-efficient FIR filters

We present a novel VLSI implementation of an order-configurable, coefficient-programmable, and power-efficient FIR filter architecture. This single-chip architecture contains 4 multiply-add functional units and each functional unit can have up to 8 multiply-add operations time-multiplexed (or folded) onto it. Thus one chip can be used to realize FIR filters with lengths ranging from 1 to 32 and multiple chips can be cascaded for higher order filters. To achieve power-efficiency, an on-chip phase locked loop (PLL) is used to automatically generate the minimum voltage level to achieve the required sample rate. Within the PLL, a novel programmable divider and a voltage level shifter are used in conjunction with the clock rate to control the internal supply voltage. Simulations show that this chip can be operated at a maximum clock rate of 100 MHz (folding factor of 1 or filter length of 4). When operated at 10 MHz, this chip only consumes 27.45 mW using an automatically set internal supply voltage of 2 V. For comparison, when the chip is operated at 10 MHz and 5 V, it consumes 109.24 mW. At 100 MHz, the chip consumes 891 mW with a 4.5 V supply that is automatically generated by the PLL. This design has been implemented using Mentor Graphics tools for an 8-bit word-length and 1.2 /spl mu/m CMOS technology.
Decomposing the Mind-Brain: A Long-Term Pursuit

This paper defends cognitive neuroscience's project of developingmechanistic explanations of cognitive processes through decompositionand localization against objections raised by William Uttal inThe New Phrenology. The key issue between Uttal and researcherspursuing cognitive neuroscience is that Uttal bets against thepossibility of decomposing mental operations into component elementaryoperations which are localized in distinct brain regions. The paperargues that it is through advancing and revising what are likely tobe overly simplistic and incorrect decompositions that the goals ofcognitive neuroscience are likely to be achieved.
Does frugivory by European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) facilitate germination in invasive plants?1

Abstract Fleshy-fruited plants are an important component of the invasive flora of the northeastern United States, but few studies have examined how avian frugivory may benefit such plants. European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are one of the most abundant avian frugivores in New England, and if effective seed dispersers for fleshy-fruited invasive plants, starlings may participate in a mutualistic interaction which benefits both the invasive plants and birds involved. Here, we investigate the role of European starlings in facilitating the germination of three invasive, fleshy-fruited plants with which they co-occur: Elaeagnus umbellata, Celastrus orbiculatus, and Rosa multiflora. For each plant species examined, less than 20% of the seeds ingested by captive starlings were not voided, and assumed to be destroyed as the result of passage through the digestive system. Starlings retained the seeds of E. umbellata 29 (mean) ± 19 (SD) min, C. orbiculatus 43 ± 20 min, and R. multiflora 27 ± 9 min. We also exam...
Tumor spectrum of adult intussusception.

Introduction Adult intussusception is rare. Most general and colorectal surgeons are unfamiliar with its etiology and optimal management. Patients and Methods Patients older than 16 years and diagnosed with intestinal intussusception between January 1990 and June 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Data related to presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and pathology were analyzed. Results Seventy-two patients underwent surgery for intestinal intussusception. Neoplasm was identified as the cause of intussusception in 66 (92%) cases, and 6 (8%) were idiopathic. The incidence of malignant colonic intussusception (63%) was significantly higher than that of enteric intussusception (20%), P = 0.001. Primary colon adenocarcinoma (8 of 10 patients, 80%) and malignant lymphoma (2 of 10 patients, 20%) were the two most common underlying malignant lesions in the colon. Lipoma (15 of 40 patients, 38%) and Peutz–Jegher adenoma (10 of 40 patients, 25%) were the two most common lesions of benign small bowel neoplasms while 27% (3 of 11) of malignant enteric intussusception cases were malignant lymphoma and metastatic respectively. Conclusion Lipoma is the most common benign tumor in both small and large bowel intussusception. Whereas 80% of tumors associated with small bowel intussusception were benign, two-thirds of colonic intussusceptions had resulted from primary adenocarcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of compound interference in immobilized metal ion affinity-based fluorescence polarization detection with a four million member compound collection.

IMAP™ is a non-separation-based, antibody-independent, FP assay that can be applied to many types of protein kinases and phosphatases. This technology is currently being used in many high-throughput screening campaigns throughout the industry. In this technology, a fluorescently labeled peptide substrate is phosphorylated and then captured on immobilized metal (MIII) nanoparticles, an interaction that is enhanced at low pH (pH 5.5). The binding of the phosphorylated peptide to the nanoparticles is detected using FP. IMAP differs from other FP formats in that the polarization signal is antibody-independent and involves metal coordination complexes detected at low pH. Here, this technology is evaluated against a 4,000,000-member compound collection using a 1,536-well assay design that is devoid of enzymes so that only interference of the compounds with the detection system is measured. Miniaturization of the assay to 1,536-well plates is discussed. Compound interference due to inhibition of phosphopeptide b...
Statistical models in assessing fold change of gene expression in real-time RT-PCR experiments

Real-time RT-PCR has been frequently used in quantitative research in molecular biology and bioinformatics. It provides remarkably useful technology to assess expression of genes. Although mathematical models for gene amplification process have been studied, statistical models and methods for data analysis in real-time RT-PCR have received little attention. In this paper, we briefly introduce current mathematical models, and study statistical models for real-time RT-PCR data. We propose a generalized estimation equations (GEE) model that properly reflects the structure of repeated data in RT-PCR experiments for both cross-sectional and longitudinal data. The GEE model takes the correlation between observations within the same subjects into consideration, and prevents from producing false positives or false negatives. We further demonstrate with a set of actual real-time RT-PCR data that different statistical models yield different estimations of fold change and confidence interval. The SAS program for data analysis using the GEE model is provided to facilitate easy computation for non-statistical professionals.
RELATIONSHIPS OF MEASUREMENTS OF BODY MASS TO PLASMA LIPOPROTEINS IN SCHOOLCHILDREN AND ADULTS

This report focuses upon relationships of body mass indices to plasma lipids and lipoproteins in 1682 children (ages 4--20 years) and 876 of their parents (ages 21--66 years) sampled during the Cincinnati Lipid Research Clinic's Princeton School District population study, 1973--1975. After an initial sampling of the schoolchildren, two subsets were then recalled, a 15% random sample independent of lipid levels (the random recall group), and a second group, approximately 10% dependent upon lipid levels (the hyperlipidemic recall group). There were no consistent patterns of difference for Quetelet indices and triceps skinfold measurements between black and white children. Hyperlipidemic recall children had higher mean Quetelet indices than random recall children. In children and adults, from both random and hyperlipidemic recall groups, Quetelet index was inversely related to high density lipoprotein cholesterol (C-HDL) and positively related to low density lipoprotein cholesterol (C-LDL), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (C-VLDL), and triglyceride. The relationship (partial correlation) between Quetelet index and plasma lipoproteins was highly significant after adjusting for age, race, sex, skinfold thickness, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, and oral contraceptive intake. In the random and hyperlipidemic recall groups of children, the amounts of variation of C-HDL accounted for by the explanatory variables (as above) were 8% and 18%, respectively, for C-LDL 4% and 7.4%, for C-VLDL 7.2% and 14.4%, and for triglyceride 10.7% and 16.3%. In the random and hyperlipidemic groups of children, the additional amounts of variation of C-HDL accounted for by the addition of Quetelet index to the explanatory variables were 3% and 4.7%, respectively, for C-LDL 3.1% and 1.8%, for C-VLDL 4.2% and 2.4%, and for triglyceride 5.5% and 3.3%. Measures of relative body mass are inversely associated with C-HDL. Although factors which control ponderosity and C-HDL may be independent, and weight loss or gain may not significantly alter C-HDL levels, it is speculated that attempts to maintain ideal body weight or reduce toward ideal body weight may maximize the levels of the anti-atherogenic C-HDL.
ASSESSING THE PALEOENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MIDDLE–LATE PENNSYLVANIAN CONODONT APATITE δ18O VALUES IN THE ILLINOIS BASIN

ABSTRACT Conodont apatite δ18OV-SMOW values from Middle though Upper Pennsylvanian (Desmoinesian–Missourian) laminated, marine black shale units within cyclic deposits of intercalated terrestrial and marine strata (cyclothems) from the Illinois Basin (United States) were measured in order to evaluate their utility as a proxy for changes in the oxygen isotopic composition of the epicontinental Late Pennsylvanian Midcontinent Sea (LPMS). The average δ18OV-SMOW values of well-preserved monogeneric (Idiognathodus) separates of conodont apatite from 12 lithologic units representing nine cyclothems range from 17.0‰ to 20.1‰ and average 19.0‰ ± 0.4‰ (1σ). Within the limits of analytical uncertainty of stable isotope measurements, the stratigraphic distribution of conodont apatite δ18O values is nontrending; particularly, there is no significant shift in δ18O values across the Desmoinesian–Missourian boundary, a period that has been interpreted to preserve a shift toward a warmer climate, increased seasonality, a...
Historical climatic variability and geographical barriers as drivers of community composition in a biodiversity hotspot

Aim To evaluate the roles of Quaternary (< 2.6 Ma) climatic stability and geologic barriers (i.e. the Andes Mountains) in shaping the modern community composition and patterns of endemism in Neotropical dry forest bird communities. Location Maranon Valley and Tumbes, north-western Peru. Methods We recorded presence and abundance of species in six dry forest bird communities on either side of the Andes Mountains. We used the data to calculate the beta diversity and phylogenetic beta diversity across regional and local scales. We compared the observed results to randomly permuted communities to determine if the communities were significantly more or less similar than we would expect by chance. Mantel tests evaluated whether beta diversity and phylogenetic beta diversity measures were correlated and whether there was a correlation between spatial distance and community diversity. Results Bird community composition, including abundance, is highly heterogeneous in north-western Peru, even at relatively local scales. Communities on either side of the Andes are significantly different based on beta diversity and phylogenetic beta diversity. Communities subjected to more historical climatic fluctuations share a more similar species composition than communities that are relatively buffered from climatic change. Main conclusions The Andes structure dry forest bird communities in north-western Peru. Greater community similarity in climatically unstable areas may be the product of formerly more continuous forest and/or movement of species among communities. In climatically stable regions, species turnover is not different from random expectations, which may reflect habitat loss and increased homogenization from anthropogenic landscape changes. Both the Andes and the historical (Quaternary) climatic regimes of north-western Peru are likely responsible for the high endemism and distributions of its dry forest bird communities.