cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial Stress and Cardiovascular Disease Part 3: Clinical and Policy Implications of Research on the Transcendental Meditation Program

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in the United States today and a major contributor to total health care costs. Psychosocial stress has been implicated in CVD, and psychosocial approaches to primary and secondary prevention are gaining research support. This third article in the series on psychosocial stress and CVD continues the evaluation of one such approach, the Maharishi Transcendental Meditation program, a psychophysiological approach from the Vedic tradition that is systematically taught by qualified teachers throughout the world. Evidence suggests not only that this program can provide benefits in prevention but also that it may reduce CVD-related and other health care expenses. On the basis of data from the studies available to date, the Transcendental Meditation program may be responsible for reductions of 80% or greater in medical insurance claims and payments to physicians. This article evaluates the implications of research on the Transcendental Meditation program for health care policy and for large-scale clinical implementation of the program. The Transcendental Meditation program can be used by individuals of any ethnic or cultural background, and compliance with the practice regimen is generally high. The main steps necessary for wider adoption appear to be: (1) educating health care providers and patients about the nature and expected benefits of the program, and (2) adjustments in public policies at the state and national levels to allow this program to be included in private and public health insurance plans.
Meteorological forcing and bottom water movement off the northern New Jersey coast

Cold bottom water is found during the summer months in a region extending from the shelf break to the nearshore zone in the area of the New York Bight. This cold bottom water, some of which is in the temperature range of the cold cell (8 °C or less), is observed to move onshore in response to upwelling events initiated by a strong wind stress from the south. Surf temperatures, nearshore temperature sections off Monterey Beach, N.J., wind velocities and offshore temperature sections are combined to document the cold cell's formation during 1974 and to demonstrate that the shoreward boundary of the cold bottom water and possibly cold cell water can move into the surf zone causing rapid decreases in surf temperature. In addition, under upwelling conditions, such onshore movements may have significant biological impacts, such as were observed during the summer of 1976 when anoxic conditions prevailed in much of this region.
Regulatory signals mediating down-regulation of the common beta chain of the IL-5, IL-3, and GM-CSF receptors

Abstract Background/rationale Our previous studies revealed that IL-5 receptor (IL-5R) signaling is down-regulated by ubiquitin/proteasome degradation of the βc cytoplasmic domain, followed by endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of the remaining truncated IL-5R complex. Since the mechanisms that initiate and terminate IL-5R signaling are poorly understood, we investigated the events regulating βc ubiquitination, proteasome degradation, and endocytosis. Methods Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate βc mutants defective in tyrosine and serine phosphorylation. These mutants were transfected into HEK293 cells and assayed for their ability to support βc ubiquitination and proteasome degradation. To determine if βc ubiquitination was required for its proteasome degradation, transient transfection of a dominant-negative ubiquitin isoform (K48R Ub) was performed in TF-1 cells. In addition, transient transfection of the WT IL-5R into a temperature-sensitive ts20 cell line that is defective in ubiquitination at 42oC was also performed. Results Studies with the βc mutants revealed that βc tyrosine phosphorylation was required for its ubiquitination, whereas serine phosphorylation was not. The K48R ubiquitin mutant reduced βc ubiquitination and proteasome degradation by approximately 50% compared to control conditions. Moreover, ligand-independent βc tyrosine phosphorylation was observed in ts20 cells defective in the ubiquitination process at 42oC. Conclusions These data suggest that βc tyrosine phosphorylation is an initiating signal for its ubiquitination. In addition, ubiquitination is required for βc proteasome degradation. Lastly, the ubiquitin conjugation machinery is required for down-regulation of βc tyrosine phosphorylation in the absence of ligand. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of IL-5-stimulated signal termination should provide novel targets for modulating IL-5-mediated inflammation.
Examining social constructions in vocational counselling: Implications for multicultural counselling competency

Because of its applicability to a broad range of individuals, social constructionism may provide vocational counsellors with vital information related to the influences of social and cultural issues in their clients' lives. In this paper, we will discuss the merits of exploring social constructions in addressing the career-related needs of clients. In addition, a case example illustrating the application of social constructionist concepts in vocational counselling practice will be presented. Lastly, implications for the use of social constructionist principles in demonstrating awareness, knowledge and skills related to multicultural issues will be highlighted.
OBSERVATIONS OF THE PALE-EYED BLACKBIRD IN SOUTHEASTERN PERU

Abstract We report the first known nest of the Pale-eyed Blackbird (Agelaius xanthophthalmus) and describe the behavior of breeding and nonbreeding pairs at Cocha Cashu, Manu National Park, Peru. Birds traveled as pairs within limited areas, whether or not they were breeding. During incubation, which is performed only by the female, the male typically remains near the nest and the birds are in regular vocal contact by means of frequent duets. Its monogamous social system is similar to that of other marsh-nesting species in its clade.
Clinical aspects of rheumatic fever: an update.

Rheumatic fever is a disease that affects all parts of the body and has a special predilection for involvement of mesenchymal tissue. The onset may occur at any time, but children over the age of 5 and young adults seem to be most often affected. The course of individual cases is unpredictable, and the prognosis is dependent primarily upon the degree of residual heart damage after the acute episode has subsided and upon the prevention of subsequent recurrences. The severity of rheumatic fever seems to have decreased since 1900 with less residual rheumatic heart disease. The incidence of rheumatic fever is also decreasing in the United States, and the fall in mortality rates was documented prior to the advent of antimicrobial agents. However, the frequency of rheumatic fever and the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease remain high in the economically and socially disadvantaged populations. In spite of numerous investigators carrying out clinical research over a number of decades, rheumatic fever continues...
In-line Sagnac interferometer current sensor

The authors demonstrate for the first time a near shot noise limited in-line Sagnac interferometer current sensor. It is shown to have a number of advantages over the optical current sensors based on polarimetric Faraday and Faraday/Sagnac loop interferometer topologies, including lower sensitivity to environmental disturbances, less demanding optical components, and easy installation. Its application to power system measurements is also detailed.
A summary of 1127 breeding soundness examinations in beef bulls

Abstract A total of 1127 breeding soundness examinations was conducted on 1005 bulls utilizing the method of examination and criteria for classifying bulls of the Society for Theriogenology. Classification of bulls according to breeding soundness potentials was as follows: 83.5% of the bulls were satisfactory, 9.0% of the bulls were questionable, 6.9% of the bulls were unsatisfactory and .6% of the bulls could not be classified. There were no breed differences in classifications. After 60 months of age there was a greater incidence of unsatisfactory potential breeders. Of the 178 questionable and unsatisfactory bulls, 54 were re-evaluated after a rest period of approximately 72 days. Questionable and unsatisfactory bulls less than two years of age improved to satisfactory status on subsequent examinations more often than bulls greater than 2 years of age (P Breeding stock has for years been selected on the basis of conformation, carcass quality, rate of gain, feed conversion, mothering ability, and color markings. Many producers are now including breeding soundness examinations as a basis for selecting breeding animals. Although there have been many papers published describing various methods of clinically determining breeding potential in bulls, there are only a few reports summarizing the results when any of the described methods have been applied to large numbers of bulls. The University of Missouri Veterinary Clinic has been one of the major collection centers in the State of Missouri for conducting breeding soundness examinations for a number of years due to its central location and close proximity to many of the state-tested bull sales. A summary of 1127 breeding soundness examinations is being reported.
Novel Therapies for Hereditary Angioedema

Advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying hereditary angioedema (HAE) have led to the development of new treatment modalities. Five new drugs for the treatment of HAE are currently undergoing clinical testing in the United States. These novel therapeutics can be divided into two groups: drugs that replace C1 inhibitor (C1INH) functional activity and drugs that abrogate the bradykinin-mediated increase in vascular permeability associated with HAE attacks. The first group includes two plasma-derived C1INH concentrates as well as a recombinant transgenic human C1INH protein, and the second group includes an engineered plasma kallikrein inhibitor as well as a B2 bradykinin receptor antagonist. This article reviews the rationale, development, and potential use of these novel therapeutics.
The impact of a tailgating policy on students' drinking behavior and perceptions

In the fall of 2004, a midwestern public university changed its tailgating policy from one that did not allow alcohol consumption to one that did. Objective, Participants, and Methods: The authors surveyed students before and after the policy change to measure consumption, problems, perceptions of peer consumption, and reported game attendance. Results: Results showed no change in drinking quantities or prevalence of problems after the policy change; however, there was an increase in students' misperceptions, with students overestimating drinking quantities and the number of students who drank while tailgating. Last, students' predictions about their game attendance if alcohol was allowed were higher than their reported attendance after the policy change. Conclusions: Conclusions suggest that although drinking quantities may not be influenced by policies at tailgating events, misperceptions may be influenced. Administrators should note that the policy did not affect students' self-reported game attendance.
The Benefit of Introducing Variability in Single-Server Queues with Application to Quality-Based Service Domains

We propose a static service differentiation policy for a single-server queueing system serving homogeneous customers. We show that by randomly assigning customers different service grades with different service rates, the average waiting time can be reduced without affecting the mean service time. Such differentiation introduces more service time variability, but it also creates information that enables the implementation of service rate-based scheduling, which mitigates the increased variance and may even reduce the total waiting time. We provide conditions under which our static service differentiation reduces waiting, and further derive closed-form expressions for the optimal differentiation policy, which shows that both optimal service rates and allocation probabilities form geometric sequences. We illustrate our policy in the context of quality-based service domains, in which customers value service time but dislike waiting. Numerically, we find that providing differentiated service can improve system performance by 5% without any additional capacity.
Integrating time‐series and end‐use methods to forecast electricity sales

Two types of forecasting methods have been receiving increasing attention by electric utility forecasters. The first type, called end-use forecasting, is recognized as an approach which is well suited for forecasting during periods characterized by technological change. The method is straightforward. The stock levels of energy-consuming equipment are forecast, as well as the energy consumption characteristics of the equipment. The final forecast is the product of the stock and usage characteristics. This approach is well suited to forecasting long time periods when technological change, equipment depletion and replacement, and other structural changes are evident. For time periods of shorter duration, these factors are static and variations are more likely to result from shocks to the environment. The shocks influence the usage of the equipment. A second forecasting approach using time-series analysis has been demonstrated to be superior for these applications. This paper discusses the integration of the two methods into a unified system. The result is a time-series model whose parameter effects become dynamic in character. An example of the models being used at the Georgia Power Company is presented. It is demonstrated that a time-series model which incorporates end-use stock and usage information is superior—even in short-term forecasting situations—to a similar time-series model which excludes the information.
Bubble formation at vibrated orifices: Medium‐chamber‐volume region

The bubble formation process at small, single, circular orifices at low gas flow rates is modified when the system is vertically vibrated in a sinusoidal fashion. For systems with significant gas chamber volume, bubble volume in the vibrated case is smaller than in the nonvibrated case. The vibrations increase the amount of liquid weeping through the orifice into the gas chamber. A simple inviscid model adequately predicts bubble formation in the medium-chamber-volume region at low values of amplitude and frequency of vibration and low viscosities. The boundaries of the transition from the FR ≫ 1 to the FR = 1 regions are described in terms of “the acceleration number/Eotvos number”.
Optical activity and solvent perturbation of fumarase.

Abstract The circular dichroism (CD), optical rotatory dispersion (ORD), and the solvent perturbation difference spectra of fumarase in the far- and near-ultraviolet region have been investigated. The CD spectrum of fumarase is characterized by CD bands centering at 222, 209, and 193 nm with [θ]λ = −18 700, −18 800, and 45 500 degrees·cm2·dmole−1, respectively. The corresponding ORD spectrum has a trough and maximum at 233 and 198–199 nm, with [m′]λ = −6880 and 34 900 degrees·cm2·dmole−1. In the aromatic absorption region the CD spectrum is dominated by tryptophan contributions with a slightly negative band at about 300 nm and positive shoulders and maxima at 291–292, 283, and 275–278 nm, with [θ]283 = 30 degrees·cm2·dmole−1. Phenylalanine contributions to the CD spectrum are observed at 259–261 and 265–268 nm. The analysis of the CD and ORD spectra based on the published model parameters for α-, β-, and random structures suggests the presence of approx. 50% α-helix, 10–30% β-structure, with the remaining portions of the enzyme in an unordered conformation. Inhibitors of fumarase were found to have little or no effect on the far-ultraviolet CD and ORD spectra. Interaction of the enzyme with malonate, succinate, glutarate, or adipate were found to cause a slight enhancement of the CD spectrum in the aromatic region. The solvent perturbation difference spectra of fumarase obtained with 20% ethylene glycol, glycerol, and 50% deuterium oxide as perturbants indicate that 4–6 of the 8 tryptophyls and 20–24 of the 40 tyrosyls occupy surface positions where they are accessible to solvent, with the remaining groups being buried in the interior folds of the enzyme.
Whole-Body Counting of 131I-Labeled Thyroxine

A technique is described for measuring the absorption and degradation rate of 131I-labeled thyroxine in human subjects; the amount of tracer material remaining in the extrathyroidal pool is deduced from external in vivo thyroidal and whole-body counting. Allowance is made for fecal excretion and fecal retention of labeled material. Results obtained in 24 euthyroid subjects are reported.
Variable angle spinning (VAS) experiments for strongly oriented systems: methods development and preliminary results.

Variable angle spinning (VAS) experiments provide a useful method for measuring long-range dipolar couplings and obtaining isotropic–anisotropic correlation spectra. These experiments make it possible to obtain correlations between isotropic and anisotropic spectra without altering the chemical composition of the sample. They also allow working with very strongly oriented systems that are not accessible to solution-state techniques. In this communication, we discuss recent hardware developments in our laboratory and show representative data from small molecules in strongly oriented liquid-crystalline samples. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Future of U.S. Natural Gas Production, Use, and Trade

Two computable general equilibrium models, one global and the other providing U.S. regional detail, are applied to analysis of the future of U.S. natural gas. The focus is on uncertainties including the scale and cost of gas resources, the costs of competing technologies, the pattern of greenhouse gas mitigation, and the evolution of global natural gas markets. Results show that the outlook for gas over the next several decades is very favorable. In electric generation, given the unproven and relatively high cost of other low-carbon generation alternatives, gas is likely the preferred alternative to coal. A broad GHG pricing policy would increase gas use in generation but reduce use in other sectors, on balance increasing its role from present levels. The shale gas resource is a major contributor to this optimistic view of the future of gas. Gas can be an effective bridge to a lower emissions future, but investment in the development of still lower CO2 technologies remains an important priority. International gas resources may well prove to be less costly than those in the U.S., except for the lowest-cost domestic shale resources, and the emergence of an integrated global gas market could result in significant U.S. gas imports.
An experimental study of the effects of three-dimensionality on the near wall turbulence structures using flow visualization

The effects of three-dimensionality on the turbulence producing near-wall structures over a rotating disk are examined using hydrogen bubble visualization. Laser Doppler anemometry measurements of the tangential and radial velocities indicate the flow to resemble that of an “infinite” disk. It was found that the crossflow acts to reduce vertical mixing during the turbulence ejection events, thus reducing the efficiency of the boundary layer in producing shear stress.
Detection of outliers in the multivariate linear regression model

In this article we suggest multivariate kurtosis as a statistic for detection of outliers in a multivariate linear regression model. The statistic has some local optimality properties.
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction in infancy

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction describes a pain-dysfunction phenomenon that usually afflicts persons in their 4th or 5th decade. The syndrome can be produced by a variety of etiologic factors including occlusal disharmony, articular disorders, and muscle imbalance. It may cause severe otalgia and refer pain to the temple, occiput, nape of neck, and shoulders. Often, associated joint clicking or popping, aural fullness, vertigo, tinnitus, subjective hypoacusis, and nausea occur. As it has not been previously reported in infants, we would like to describe our experience with this disorder in an 11-month-old boy who was referred to our clinic with a presumed diagnosis of otitis media. The embryology of the temporomandibular joint is reviewed and appropriate treatment with anti-inflammatory analgesics, warm compresses, orthodontics, and external brace appliances is discussed. Because of referral patterns in the infant age group, the pediatric otolaryngologist should be similar with this entity and its presentation in children.
Enzymatic isomerization (Δ8 → Δ7) of intermediates of sterol biosynthesis

Abstract Isomerization of Δ8 to Δ7-sterols by rat liver microsomes was studied under appropriate conditions to eliminate concomitant demethylation reactions. Various proposed intermediates of lanosterol demethylation were incubated with the microsomal preparation. The rates of isomerization of Δ8,24-cholestadienol and Δ8-cholestenol were maximal. The rates of isomerization of 4α-methyl-Δ8,24,-cholestadienol and 4α-methyl-Δ8-cholestenol were about 75% of the rates of isomerization of the 4-nor-methyl sterols. 4,4-Dimethyl-Δ8-cholestenol was isomerized much less rapidly (approximately 30%). The presence of the 14α-methyl group of 4,4, 14α-trimethyl-Δ8,24-cholestadienol (lanosterol), 4,4, 14α-trimethyl-Δ8-cholestenol, and 14α-methyl-Δ8-cholesterol completely prevented isomerization. Various Δ7-sterols and 3-keto-sterols remained unchanged. Thus, enzymatic Δ8 → Δ7 isomerization of methyl intermediates of lanosterol demethylation may occur, but the rate of isomerization may not be significant until later stages of demethylation are reached. Because acid-catalyzed isomerization was both reversible and active with 14α-methyl sterols, the mechanisms of enzymatic and acid-catalyzed isomerization may be different.
People bouncing on trampolines: dramatic energy transfer, a table-top demonstration, complex dynamics and a zero sum game.

Jumping on trampolines is a popular backyard recreation. In some trampoline games (e.g., ‘‘seat drop war’’), when two people land on the trampoline with only a small time-lag, one person bounces much higher than the other, as if energy has been transferred from one to the other. First, we illustrate this energy-transfer in a table-top demonstration, consisting of two balls dropped onto a mini-trampoline, landing almost simultaneously, sometimes resulting in one ball bouncing much higher than the other. Next, using a simple mathematical model of two masses bouncing passively on a massless trampoline with no dissipation, we show that with specific landing conditions, it is possible to transfer all the kinetic energy of one mass to the other through the trampoline – in a single bounce. For human-like parameters, starting with equal energy, the energy transfer is maximal when one person lands approximately when the other is at the bottom of her bounce. The energy transfer persists even for very stiff surfaces. The energy-conservative mathematical model exhibits complex non-periodic long-term motions. To complement this passive bouncing model, we also performed a gametheoretic analysis, appropriate when both players are acting strategically to steal the other player’s energy. We consider a zero-sum game in which each player’s goal is to gain the other player’s kinetic energy during a single bounce, by extending her leg during flight. For high initial energy and a symmetric situation, the best strategy for both subjects (minimax strategy and Nash equilibrium) is to use the shortest available leg length and not extend their legs. On the other hand, an asymmetry in initial heights allows the player with more energy to gain even more energy in the next bounce. Thus synchronous bouncing unstable is unstable both for passive bouncing and when leg lengths are controlled as in game-theoretic equilibria.
Scanning and light microscopic study of age changes at a neuromuscular junction in the mouse.

From previous work, it appears that synaptic transmission is well preserved at aging mouse neuromuscular junctions despite profound ultrastructural changes. Scanning and light microscopy have been used to determine whether expansion or sprouting of nerve terminals or post-synaptic reorganization play a role in this apparent compensatory mechanism. The number and length of nerve terminal branches in the extensor digitorum longus of young (7 months) and old (29 months) mice were studied with a combined silver-cholinesterase method. In aged animals, there were increases in nerve terminal length and number of intrasynaptic branches, with no change in muscle fibre diameter or numbers of axons entering the junction. Neither collateral sprouting nor collateral innervation, hallmarks of partial denervation, were present. Motor endplates visualized by scanning electron microscopy appeared as slightly elevated, elliptical plateaux (‘raised areas’) with smooth surfaces into which the synaptic clefts were etched. In the aged endplates more than in young endplates, the primary clefts were often interrupted by narrow short outpouchings approximately perpendicular to the long axis of the primary cleft. In addition, oval primary cleft islets were more frequent and there was increased randomness and branching of secondary clefts. Both light and scanning microscopy gave concordant quantitative evidence that nerve terminals and the underlying postsynaptic cleft are longer and more branched in aged mice. The increased length of synaptic nerve terminal approximately balances the loss of girth previously reported leaving nerve terminal volume unchanged. The observed expansion of the synaptic area in the aged neuromuscular junction may be compensatory, preserving neuromuscular function. The data also point to plasticity of adult neuromuscular synaptic structure.
Singlet Oxygen and Peroxyl Radicals Regulate Carotenoid Biosynthesis in Phaffia rhodozyma

Carotenoids have recently received considerable interest because of their potential in delaying or preventing degenerative diseases such as arteriosclerosis, cancer, and aging. In this study we show that the active oxygen species singlet oxygen (1O2) and peroxyl radicals differently affect carotenoid composition and biosynthesis in the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma. Photochemical generation of 1O2 with rose bengal or alpha-terthienyl induced carotenoid accumulation. In contrast, peroxyl radicals derived from t-butylhydroperoxide (tBOOH) or H2O2 decreased the content of astaxanthin and increased beta-carotene by approximately 4-fold, suggesting end product feedback regulation by astaxanthin or inhibition of biosynthetic enzymes. 14C labeling of carotenoids during oxidative stress supported the possibility of end product regulation. Carotenoids were bleached by 8 mM tBOOH within 6 h when carotenogenesis was inhibited by thymol. When treated with peroxides, a previously unreported pigment in P. rhodozyma was formed. The carotenoid had a mass of 580 Da and a molecular formula of C40H52O3. Chemical derivatizations combined with mass and absorbance spectroscopy tentatively identified the carotenoid as dehydroflexixanthin (3,1'-dihydroxy-2,3,3',4'-tetradehydro-1',2'-dihydro-beta,psi-caro tene-4-one). This study provides the first report of induction of astaxanthin biosynthesis by 1O2, probable feedback control by astaxanthin, and the oxidative degradation of astaxanthin to novel pigments in P. rhodozyma.
Paternal involvement among unwed fathers

Abstract Paternal involvement among unwed fathers is examined during pregnancy and at birth. The effects of relationship status, race and ethnicity, age, education, income, family structure and father values on father involvement are also examined. The findings suggest that overall there is a high degree of involvement among all the fathers examined. Relationship status is statistically significant and most predictive in assessing paternal involvement in each analysis. Fathers who are romantically involved and cohabiting are more involved than those who are romantically involved but do not cohabit. Fathers who are no longer romantically involved are least likely to sustain involvement. In addition, fathers who are employed are also more likely to sustain involvement.
Noninvasive imaging of tumor hypoxia in rats using the 2-nitroimidazole 18F-EF5

Tumor hypoxia is an important prognostic indicator for cancer therapy outcome. EF5 [2-(2-nitro-1[ H]-imidazol-1-yl)- N-(2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropyl)-acetamide] has been employed to measure tumor hypoxia in animals and humans using immunohistochemical methods. EF5 is a lipophilic molecule designed to have a very uniform biodistribution, a feature of obvious benefit for use in PET imaging. The present study represents the first demonstration of noninvasive PET imaging of rat tumors using fluorine-18 labeled EF5. Because of the small tumor size, partial volume effects may result in underestimation of concentration of the compound. Therefore, validation of the PET data was performed by gamma counting of the imaged tissue. The tumor models studied were the Morris 7777 (Q7) hepatoma (n=5) and the 9L glioma (n=2) grown subcutaneously in rats. Our previous studies have demonstrated that early passage 9L tumors are not severely hypoxic and that Q7 tumors are characterized by heterogeneous regions of tumor hypoxia (i.e., Q7 tumors are usually more hypoxic than early passage 9L tumors). The seven rats were imaged in the HEAD Penn-PET scanner at various time points after administration of 50-100 micro Ci (18)F-EF5 in 30 mg/kg carrier nonradioactive EF5. The carrier was used to ensure drug biodistribution comparable to prior studies using immunohistochemical methods. (18)F-EF5 was excreted primarily via the urinary system. Images obtained 10 min following drug administration demonstrated that the EF5 distributed evenly to all organ systems, including brain. Later images showed increased uptake in most Q7 tumors compared with muscle. Liver uptake remained relatively constant over the same time periods. Tumor to muscle ratios ranged from 0.82 to 1.73 (based on PET images at 120 min post injection) and 1.47 to 2.95 (based on gamma counts at approximately 180 min post injection). Tumors were easily visible by 60 min post injection when the final tumor to muscle ratios (based on gamma counts) were greater than 2. Neither of the 9L tumors nor the smallest Q7 tumor met this criterion, and these tumors were not seen on the PET images. These preliminary results suggest that (18)F-EF5 is a promising agent for noninvasive assessment of tumor hypoxia. Plans are underway to initiate a research project to determine the safety and preliminary evidence for the efficacy of this preparation in patients with brain tumors.
Does the genotype for schizophrenia often remain unexpressed because of canalization and stochastic events during development

Background. It has been well established in the literature that a strong genetic component exists for schizophrenia. Available data are compatible with the hypothesis that for most cases of schizophrenia, the genetic component consists of multiple genes acting in an additive manner with the genotype for schizophrenia being present when the number of genes is greater than a threshold number. Twin studies suggest that the genotype for schizophrenia is unexpressed in some individuals who carry it. This phenomenon of reduced penetrance has led to a diversity of hypotheses concerning the aetiology of schizophrenia. Based on a review of the literature a neuro-developmental model is proposed for schizophrenia that involves the actions of the schizophrenia genotype, canalization and stochastic events.Conclusions. The schizophrenia genotype is programmed to disrupt the migration of neuronal cells in the developing cortex during the second trimester, resulting in impaired embryogenesis. The presence of a specific lesion is the reason for the onset of schizophrenia later in life. The genotype for schizophrenia often remains unexpressed, or demonstrates variable expressivity, because of the actions of canalization and stochastic events that may allow migrating neuronal cells to reach or approach the target data. Stochastic events also influence whether canalization will be successful, therefore, chance plays a major role under normal conditions in determining whether the schizophrenia genotype will be expressed. Certain environmental factors acting during early development, such as high temperatures resulting from maternal illness, may increase the penetrance of the schizophrenia genotype.
2′,3′-Cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase in rat liver mitochondrial membranes

Abstract 2′,3′-Cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase (nucleoside-2′:3′-cyclic-phosphate 2′-nucleotidohydrolase, EC 3.1.4.37) activity has been demonstrated in rat liver mitochondria. The enzyme was localized in both the outer and inner mitochondrial membranes but was absent from the intermembrane space and matrix. The mitochondrial (cyclic nucleotide) phosphohydrolase was activated by freezing and thawing and by treatment with digitonin or detergents. It is suggested that (cyclic nucleotide) phosphohydrolase is an integral membrane protein which is buried to a significant degree within the membrane. Atractyloside was found to be a noncompetitive inhibitor of the enzyme both in intact mitochondria and in preparations of the mitochondrial membranes. The enzyme substrate, 2′,3′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate, had no effect on the oxidation of exogenous β-hydroxybutyrate or succinate by intact mitochondria. These findings suggest that 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′phosphohydrolase is more widely distributed than was previously thought and that the enzyme may play a fundamental role in membranes, independent of their specialized structure or functions.
Response to Hathaway

Conflict situations around the world regularly compel the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other humanitarian organizations to become involved in assisting both refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). In West Darfur Sudan UNHCR is helping tens of thousands of refugees from Chad as well as hundreds of thousands of IDPs both fleeing their homes and communities from military attacks and in desperate need of food shelter and protection. Across the border in Chad IDPs and refugees also face many of the same threats and problems. The similarities in the predicament of refugees and IDPs prompted UK Secretary of State for International Development Hilary Benn to ask Is it really sensible that we have different systems for dealing with people fleeing their homes dependent on whether they happen to have crossed an international border? (excerpt)
Asymmetric di-jet production in polarized hadronic collisions

Abstract Using the collinear QCD factorization approach, we study the single-transverse-spin dependent cross section Δ σ ( S ⊥ ) for the hadronic production of two jets of momenta P 1 = P + q / 2 and P 2 = − P + q / 2 . We consider the kinematic region where the transverse components of the momentum vectors satisfy P ⊥ ≫ q ⊥ ≫ Λ QCD . For the case of initial-state gluon radiation, we show that at the leading power in q ⊥ / P ⊥ and at the lowest non-trivial perturbative order, the dependence of Δ σ ( S ⊥ ) on q ⊥ decouples from that on P ⊥ , so that the cross section can be factorized into a hard part that is a function only of the single scale P ⊥ , and into perturbatively generated transverse-momentum dependent (TMD) parton distributions with transverse momenta k ⊥ = O ( q ⊥ ) .
Local anesthetics. Effect of pH on use-dependent block of sodium channels in frog muscle.

Sodium currents were studied under voltage clamp in the presence of neutral, amine, and quaternary local anesthetic compounds. Use-dependent block was observed as a cumulative depression of INa seen with repetitive depolarizing test pulses applied at frequencies of 2–10s-1. With quaternary QX-314, the time constant of use dependence was long, and with neutral benzocaine, very short. With lidocaine and procaine, increasing external pH (pHo) changed the time constant from long to short, but alterations of internal pH have no effect. Inactivation in Na channels was measured by the influence of prepulses on peak INa during test pulses. Single-stimulus inactivation curves were shifted more with lidocaine at high pHo than at low pHo, but inactivation curves measured during pulse trains with any of the drugs and at any pHo were strongly shifted. All measurements show that the drug-receptor reaction was slow for amine drugs at low pHo, as for quaternary drugs at any pHo, and fast for amine drugs at high pHo, as for neutral drugs at any pHo. The major effect of low pHo on amine drugs was to reduce the concentration of drugs in the fiber and to protonate drug molecules on the receptor, thus trapping them in the blocking position for a longer time. Direct effects of pH on the receptor seemed minimal.
A theorem useful in two-dimensional error-detection

The problem of applying horizontal and/or vertical parity checks for error detection is considered. It is proved that the parity check at the intersection of the horizontal and vertical checks can be calculated from either set of checks and that errors can be detected in the information independent of those in the nonintersecting checks.
Ice wedge casts and past permafrost distribution in North America

Abstract Ice wedge casts are the most accurate and widespread indicators of past permafrost. Many ice wedge casts exist in Alaska, some in areas of existing ice wedges. In addition to indicating paleotemperature conditions and a wider distribution of permafrost in Wisconsinan time than now, casts in Alaska also indicate permafrost in Iliinoian and pre-lllinoian time. Hundreds of ice wedge casts are now known in temperate North America and are described from about 22 widespread localities coast to coast in Canada and United States. Permafrost existed in late Wisconsinan time, 20,000 to 10,000 years ago, along the glacial border in temperate United States. Later permafrost formed north of the glacial border as the continental ice sheet withdrew exposing drift to the rigorous periglacial climate. Ice wedge casts indicate that the − 7 °C mean annual air isotherm was about 2000 km farther south in late Wisconsinan time than now.
Access to Expertise as a Form of Social Capital: An Examination of Race- and Class-Based Disparities in Network Ties to Experts:

Social capital theory suggests that individuals can access resources through their relationships with others. While research in this area typically focuses on the potential benefits of having high-...
Selective Dispersal of Quartz: ABSTRACT

Polycrystalline, undulatory, and nonundulatory quartz extinction varieties are characterized during transport by differing degrees of resistance to degradation. Polycrystalline quartz, the most unstable variety, is the first to be broken down and, in the examples discussed, is not modified significantly during transport. Undulatory quartz is being reduced continually in size during transport, and within a particular grain size there will be a concomitant enrichment in the more resistant nonundulatory variety. Such a selectivity in the dispersal of quartz extinction types characterizes Pleistocene sediments of the Mississippi cone and Sigsbee Deep of the Gulf of Mexico. Proximal to input source (the Mississippi) the sediments have 8 percent less nonundulatory quartz than distal sediments on the western edge of the Sigsbee Deep. This variation is attributed to the differing degree of resistance to degradation of each of the monocrystalline quartz varieties. The westerly increase in nonundulatory quartz is not, however, a simple linear trend. Within the grain-size limits of this study (74-37µ), there is no marked enrichment of nonundulatory quartz along the whole of the Mississippi End_Page 523------------------------------ cone. However, from east to west of the Sigsbee Deep, the degree of enrichment is marked. It is postulated that this difference is a result of contrasted flow regimes between the two physiographic provinces. The cone, because of its slope and high sedimentation rate (compared with the deep), was characterized by both slumping (low-velocity mass transfer of sediment) and high-velocity turbidity currents. The latter supplied the main source of sediment to the Sigsbee Deep. Once the break in slope was encountered, velocities diminished rapidly. Such a velocity diminution resulted in the Sigsbee Deep constantly being supplied by currents representative of the lower flow regime. Thus the selective and relatively rapid degradation of undulatory quartz is more marked in that physiographic pr vince dominated by traction currents. Other sample traverses in fluvial, shallow-marine, and deltaic complexes confirm the relative instability of undulatory quartz. The total quartz extinction assemblage also is affected by variations in hydrodynamic conditions between environments within such a complex, yielding an additional tool for the reconstruction of paleoenvironments. End_of_Article - Last_Page 524------------
Clone wars: IgH subclones in preB-ALL.

In this issue of Blood , Gawad et al provide an unprecedented look at the clonal diversity of pediatric B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). 1
Possible Variations of λ=10 µm Radiation from NGC 4151

THE nucleus of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 4151 was observed at λ=3.5 µm and λ = 11.5 µm on June 21, 1969, with one of the 36-inch telescopes at Kitt Peak National Observatory. The purpose of the observations was to look for possible variations in the infrared flux from these objects. Calculations of radiation processes applied to the infrared flux from Seyfert galaxies and the quasi-stellar object 3C 273 indicate that it would be highly unlikely that radiation from dust could be the source of this radiation, if any significant variation were found to occur at λ = 10 µm (unpublished work of Burbidge and Stein, and of Rees, Silk, Werner and Wickramasinghe). The results of the observations of June 21, 1969, indicate that it is likely that a significant variation of the λ = 10 µm flux from NGC 4151 has occurred in the past one to two years. These results are preliminary, but significant enough to indicate that this object should be carefully monitored for variations at infrared wavelengths in the near future.
Electron transfer dissociation in conjunction with collision activation to investigate the Drosophila melanogaster phosphoproteome.

Better understanding how cells are regulated and adapt to their environment based on the reversible phosphorylation of proteins is a key question of current molecular and systems biology research. In this study, an advanced mass spectrometry based approach leveraging the electron transfer dissociation (ETD) technique in combination with CID using a linear ion trap mass spectrometer is described. The technique was applied, for the first time, to the identification of phosphorylated peptides isolated from the Drosophila melanogaster Kc167 cell line. We demonstrate that the method is particularly useful for the characterization of large phosphopeptides, including those with multiple phosphorylation sites, as extensive series of c′ and z• fragment-ions were observed. Finally, we have applied a directed tandem mass spectrometric workflow using inclusion lists to increase the number of identified peptides.
Ageing: a toast to long life.

Reducing food intake increases lifespan in many species. A small molecule that occurs naturally in plants seems to mimic the beneficial effects of caloric restriction and extend longevity in yeast.
The cell cycle and acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) activates pathways of cell death and cell proliferation. Although seemingly discrete and unrelated mechanisms, these pathways can now be shown to be connected and even to be controlled by similar pathways. The dependence of the severity of renal-cell injury on cell cycle pathways can be used to control and perhaps to prevent acute kidney injury. This review is written to address the correlation between cellular life and death in kidney tubules, especially in acute kidney injury.
Looking Backward for the Avant-Garde

by Xiaobing Tang. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007. pp. xii, 310. $75.52 cloth. The cover of Xiaobing Tang's Origins of the Chinese Avant-Garde makes his central question clear at a glance. It is a 1935 monochrome woodcut by Luo Qingzhen that shows a line of boat haulers, their backs bent with effort and their faces hidden under identical straw hats. Behind them, under a lower ing sky, lies a river with a few sturdy trees on its opposite bank. Although the image's humble, anonymous subjects and scratchy crosshatching seem simple or even crude at first, a complex pattern of triangles soon emerges in the ropes that link the pullers to one another and suggest their kinship to the trees across the river. One begins to see how subtly the various cuts and lines evoke the textures of earth, rock, water, and sky. Yet it remains a straightfor wardly readable 1930s social realist image that might have come from the hands of Rockwell Kent, Rufino Tamayo, or Franz Masereel. For anyone who expects that an avant garde worthy of the name will de liver the shock of the new, these images seem too familiar, too easy to read, too naively realist to qualify. In what sense, then, were the works of the 1930s Chinese woodcut art
Digitizing Hospital History: A Pilot Project

In 2009, the Baystate Health Sciences Library began to investigate digitizing historical archives as an innovative way to expand its usefulness to its institution and the communities that it serves. This pilot project was to capture, manage, and preserve annual reports and School of Nursing memorabilia. Across the nation, other medical libraries were launching their own projects. This article describes the process in the context of other digitization projects at medical libraries. Issues of selection, goals, and challenges are addressed. Digitizing hospital history is a viable opportunity for librarians willing to learn new skills and forge new alliances.
A systems-of-systems perspective on healthcare: Insights from two multi-method exploratory cases of leading UK and US hospitals

Several developed nations around the world are grappling with high healthcare expenditures and unsatisfactory outcomes. High level country benchmarks show that there is wide variation in health outcomes for countries with similar levels of income and education [1,2,3], and the US healthcare system in particular is often singled out as the least effective system amongst developed countries [4]. A common US and UK characteristic is that the highest source of healthcare expenditures are hospital services and infrastructure [5,6]. Consequently, the strategies and operations developed and implemented by hospitals have a significant effect on access, quality, and cost of care [7]. This paper's intended contribution is twofold. Firstly, to provide a system's perspective of healthcare beyond traditional high level country benchmarking exercises, and conduct two exploratory cases of leading hospital enterprises, one from the US and another from the UK, so as to further our understanding of hospitals' inherent system complexity, which has remained buried within traditional high level comparative country statistics. Secondly, to address a recent call from the systems engineering community to adopt a multidisciplinary research approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative methods with the goal of further supporting the systems-of-systems (SoS) practice.