cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pitch and Duration Mismatch Negativity are Associated With Distinct Auditory Cortex and Inferior Frontal Cortex Volumes in the First-Episode Schizophrenia Spectrum.

Background Pitch and duration mismatch negativity (pMMN/dMMN) are related to left Heschl's gyrus gray matter volumes in first-episode schizophrenia (FESz). Previous methods were unable to delineate functional subregions within and outside Heschl's gyrus. The Human Connectome Project multimodal parcellation (HCP-MMP) atlas overcomes this limitation by parcellating these functional subregions. Further, MMN has generators in inferior frontal cortex, and therefore, may be associated with inferior frontal cortex pathology. With the novel use of the HCP-MMP to precisely parcellate auditory and inferior frontal cortex, we investigated relationships between gray matter and pMMN and dMMN in FESz. Methods pMMN and dMMN were measured at Fz from 27 FESz and 27 matched healthy controls. T1-weighted MRI scans were acquired. The HCP-MMP atlas was applied to individuals, and gray matter volumes were calculated for bilateral auditory and inferior frontal cortex parcels and correlated with MMN. FDR correction was used for multiple comparisons. Results In FESz only, pMMN was negatively correlated with left medial belt in auditory cortex and area 47L in inferior frontal cortex. Duration MMN negatively correlated with the following auditory parcels: left medial belt, lateral belt, parabelt, TA2, and right A5. Further, dMMN was associated with left area 47L, right area 44, and right area 47L in inferior frontal cortex. Conclusions The novel approach revealed overlapping and distinct gray matter associations for pMMN and dMMN in auditory and inferior frontal cortex in FESz. Thus, pMMN and dMMN may serve as biomarkers of underlying pathological deficits in both similar and slightly different cortical areas.
The polymer nanocomposites embedded particles size and agglomeration effect on the effective refractive index tuning

The polymer nanocomposites have attracted increasing attention in the optical components that are miniaturized and integrated with wearable or portable electronics due to the polymer processibility and the tunability of the refractive index (RI) by adding nanoparticles. However, the lack of models predicting the composites’ RI attributed to the morphology, physical properties, as well as volume fraction of the nanoparticles poses difficulties in the design. This study investigates the effect of the size and agglomeration condition of the nanoparticles on the effective RI based on a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method simulating the Fabry-Perot resonance within the composite film. The result showed that larger particles (or particle clusters) could reinforce the RI of nanocomposites compared with the well-dispersed small particles. The particle-cluster model had lower RI than the single-solid-particle model with the same effective particle diameter, demonstrating that the particle cluster provides less scattering intensity than the single-solid-particle.
Beyond BCL-2 Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Other Approaches to Leverage the Apoptotic Pathway

Introduction BCL-2 inhibition has transformed the therapeutic landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, 10–50% of newly diagnosed patients with AML may not respond to venetoclax and HMA or LDAC, and 3–15% patients may not respond to venetoclax with intensive or non-intensive chemotherapy.1–6 In addition, up to 40% of responding patients may relapse with low rates of response of 20% to salvage therapy and poor overall survival of 2 months after relapse.7 Clinical and biological factors associated with primary and acquired resistance to venetoclax include secondary AML, monocytic differentiation, complex cytogenetics, mutations in TP53, BAX, dependence on other anti-apoptotic proteins, altered metabolism of nicotinamide, fatty acids, and oxidative phosphortylation.3,8–14
Centrally Acting Humoral Factors in the Control of Vasopressin Release

Publisher Summary The major physiological stimuli for vasopressin release are reductions in arterial blood pressure and blood volume and an increase in plasma osmolality. This chapter focuses on the recent studies of the central actions of catecholamines, prostaglandins, and vasopressin itself on vasopressin release. Noradrenaline, dopamine, prostaglandins of the E series, and vasopressin itself can act centrally to affect the release of vasopressin from the posterior pituitary into the circulating blood. There is evidence that other centrally acting humoral agents, for example, acetylcholine, angiotensin II, and the opioids, also influence vasopressin secretion. These agents may act as neurotransmitters at synapses on the neurosecretory cells in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei or at interneuronal synapses in the neural systems that control vasopressin release. Some of these agents, for example, the prostaglandins, may act as neuromodulators, modifying the response to a stimulus of some element in the neural control system for vasopressin release. A given agent, for example, dopamine, may act in several different neural pathways that innervate the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei and the neurohypophysis. Thus, the effects of such an agent, when it is administered centrally, could vary according to the experimental conditions. However, considerable work remains to be done to identify the humoral agents that act centrally on vasopressin release and carefully characterize their actions, their sites of action, and their role in the control of vasopressin secretion.
Effects of inhibition of transsarcolemmal calcium influx on content and releasability of calcium stored in sarcoplasmic reticulum of intact myocardium.

Publisher Summary In this chapter the results of the experiments using Ni2+ suggest that, in heart muscle beating at close to physiological rates, the inhibition of transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx inhibits Ca2+-induced release of sarcoplasmic reticular (SR) Ca2+ without decreasing the amount of Ca2+ stored in the SR. Moreover, the negative inotropic effect arising solely from the inhibition of the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx is rather small for contractions that are largely dependent on SR Ca2+. The model in which SR Ca2+ release is regulated by the product of the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx and the amount of releasable SR Ca2+ may account for the difference in the effects of an inhibitor of the Ca2+ influx on the force of the steady-state contraction and that of the postrest contraction. Even if the total SR Ca2+ content is the same in the two types of contractions, the amount of releasable SR Ca2+ is most likely smaller in the steady-state contraction at a high frequency than in the postrest contraction owing to the time-dependent process by which SR Ca2+ becomes available for release. The proposed model predicts that the larger the amount of releasable SR Ca2+, the smaller is the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx required for the same amount of SR Ca2+ release. Although the effects of thiopental and Ni2+ have been similar, the anesthetic differed from Ni2+ with respect to relative effect on the postrest contraction compared at the same level of inhibition of the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx and with respect to its effect on the postrest contraction measured in the presence of ryanodine. Thus, thiopental appears to have a direct effect on the SR Ca2+ release mechanism in such a way that SR Ca2+ release is inhibited whether the release is triggered by the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx or by the action of ryanodine.
A new role for α‐synuclein in Parkinson's disease: Alteration of ER–mitochondrial communication

Familial cases of Parkinson's disease (PD) can be associated with overexpression or mutation of α-synuclein, a synaptic protein reported to be localized mainly in the cytosol and mitochondria. We recently showed that wild-type α-synuclein is not present in mitochondria, as previously thought, but rather is located in mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Remarkably, we also found that PD-related mutated α-synuclein results in its reduced association with mitochondria-associated membranes, coincident with a lower degree of apposition of endoplasmic reticulum with mitochondria and an increase in mitochondrial fragmentation, as compared with wild-type. This new subcellular localization of α-synuclein raises fundamental questions regarding the relationship of α-synuclein to mitochondria-associated membranes function, in both normal and pathological states. In this article, we attempt to relate aspects of PD pathogenesis to what is known about mitochondria-associated membranes' behavior and function. We hypothesize that early events occurring in dopaminergic neurons at the level of the mitochondria-associated membranes could cause long-term disturbances that lead to PD.
A preliminary study concerning the possibility of dietary carcinogenesis.

Summary Twenty-seven dyes, many of them being certified food colors, were fed to rats in a concentration of about 4 per cent of the diet by dry weight. It was found that the dyes differentially stain the mucosa of the various parts of the alimentary tract. The glandular stomach was stained by these dyes more readily than the intestinal mucosa and the colonic mucosa, whereas the epithelium of the forestomach showed with most dyes no coloration or only a very faint one. The mucosa of the glandular stomach was found at autopsy to be grossly swollen in many instances. Microscopically edema was often present and the cells stained poorly. They were often vacuolated and showed a loss of cytoplasmic pyrinophilia. Round cell infiltration was sometimes seen but the most striking and frequent microscopic finding was the presence of granular, black to brown colored deposits within the cells of the stained mucosa. These consisted probably of condensed or conjugated and therefore less soluble states of the absorbed dyes. When the feeding of the dyes was discontinued for 24 hours the staining disappeared. In the case of some dyes, two or three days were required to lose the stain. The absorbed dyes were eliminated at least partly in the secretions of the gastric mucosa. In seven of 33 animals fed amaranth (F. D. & C. Red N 2), ponceau SX (F. D. & C. Red S 4), Light Green S. F. Yellowish (F. D. & C. Green # 2), Guinea green B (F. D. & C. Green # 1), and hematoxylin respectively, malignant tumors of the lymphatic tissue (lymphosarcomas) have been observed after feeding the dyes for from 6 to 20 months. Fifty control animals observed for 20 months or more failed to develop tumors. We tentatively ascribe the relatively frequent occurrence of the tumors to a chronic "strain" on the lymphatic or the reticulo-endothelial system, induced by the relatively enormous quantity of-continuously absorbed dye substance. The feeding of three other dyes, namely, erythrosine (F. D. & C. Red # 3), ponceau 3R (F. D. & C. Red # 1) and Sudan IV for from 12 to 19 months was in five of 16 animals associated with the occurrence of cirrhotic changes in the liver with numerous hyperplastic focuses, resembling cholangiomas and in one case hepatoma, but without definite invasive characteristics. Hepatic cirrhotic changes were not observed in the 50 control animals.
THE USE OF ACETAZOLEAMIDE IN THE THERAPY OF SALICYLATE POISONING

Data on a series of 45 patients with salicylate poisoning, managed on the pediatric service of the Baltimore City Hospital, are presented. A regimen consisting of acetazoleamide and fluids administered intravenously in 27 patients is outlined. Results of therapy are presented and compared to a group of 18 patients treated with parenteral fluids alone. This mode of therapy in the 27 patients so treated has proven to be an apparently safe and effective means of enhancing salicylate excretion. The importance of early initiation of therapy is stressed. The rationale for the use of acetazoleamide to facilitate the excretion of salicylate is discussed. Conflicting evidence from animal experiments suggests caution in the indiscriminate application of this type of therapy.
Multiple Scenario Ozone Change Calculations: The Subtractive Perturbation Approach

Using a coupled one-dimensional atmospheric model -- consisting of a narrow-band radiative-convective calculation of the vertical temperature profile plus a complete photochemical code to determine trace gas concentrations -- we estimate the potential effects on atmospheric ozone of a continuation through the middle of the next century of presently observed trace gas concentration changes. A “Base Case” scenario projecting presently observed trends forward in time gives a calculated ozone increase of about +3% by the year 2050. The effect of the individual species is estimated by a new “subtractive perturbation” approach.
A comparison of three sources of data on child homicide

This study compared data from death certificates (DC), medical examiner (ME) reports, and Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program for homicides among children age 5 years or younger in Jefferson County, Alabama between 1988 and 1998. Records from each source were matched independently to records from the other two sources. Kappa coefficients measured the chance-corrected agreement between sources. The strongest correlations were for victim's gender and race. Correlations were weakest for victim's relationship to the offender and offender's gender. DC and ME data demonstrated excellent agreement and provided a comprehensive count of homicides in Jefferson County, whereas UCR comparisons had lower correlations. However, the UCR is a valuable source of child homicide data in the United States that is underutilized in public health research.
“Has this person been encountered before?”: Modeling an anonymous identification system

We consider the problem of anonymous identification where a biometric system answers the question “Has this person been encountered before?” without actually deducing the person's identity. In such a system, identity profiles are created dynamically as and when the system encounters an input probe. Consequently, multiple probes of the same identity may be mistakenly placed in different identity profiles, while probes from different identities may be mistakenly placed in the same identity profile. In this work, we model the matching performance of an anonymous identification system and develop terminology as well as expressions for predicting decision errors. Further, we demonstrate that the sequential order in which the probes are encountered by the system has a great impact on its matching performance. Experimental analysis based on face, fingerprint and iris scores confirms the validity of the designed error prediction model, as well as demonstrates that traditional metrics for biometric recognition fail to completely characterize the error dynamics of an anonymous identification system.
Cross transfer effects of conditioning and deconditioning on muscular strength.

Abstract The purpose of the investigation was to study the effects of inactivity periods of 1, 4, 6, and 8 weeks on the retention of recently acquired levels of muscular strength in the ipsilateral and contralateral arms. The aubject8 (80 experimental and 20 control) were right-handed mole volunteers, 18 to 22 yr. The experimental subjects participated three times weekly in a 6-week high-intensity, low-repetition strength conditioning programme. Following training, the trained subjects were randomly divided into four experimental groups and stopped training for 1,4, 6, or 8 weeks. Upon completion of the inactivity periods, a retention test was administered to both arms. The data analysis revealed that all experimental groups enhanced their isometric strength levels significantly in both arms during conditioning, thus demonstrating the phenomenon of cross-transfer of isometric strength. No significant differences were found for the control group. It was also found that all experimental groups retained a si...
Compact piezohydraulic actuation system

Design and analysis of a scalable piezohydraulic actuation system is presented. Efficiency analysis of frequency rectification demonstrates that hydraulic actuation transfers the maximum amount of work from the actuator to the load. The ratio of peak electrical power to average power delivered caries from 8 percent to 25 percent depending on the piezoelectric coupling coefficient, highlighting the need for efficient power electronics to minimize heat dissipation in the system and minimize volume. A lumped parameter system model demonstrates that fluid compliance is the limiting facto in the stiffness of a bidirectional actuator that does not require hydraulic accumulators or four-way valves. A benchtop experiment consisting of a piezoelectric shock actuator, pumping chamber, and a linear hydraulic cylinder is developed and tested to determine the effect of friction on the micron- level motion of the actuator. The effects of friction are minimized by applying a pneumatic precharge to the system and driving the actuator at its maximum voltage level. Friction is not deemed a limiting factor to the development of a piezohydraulic system with stroke outputs on the order of 100 micrometers per cycle.
Subgroups of Finitely Presented Groups

The main theorem of this paper states that a finitely generated group can be embedded in a finitely presented group if and only if it has a recursively enumerable set of defining relations. It follows that every countable A belian group, and every countable locally finite group can be so embedded; and that there exists a finitely presented group which simultaneously embeds all finitely presented groups. A nother corollary of the theorem is the known fact that there exist finitely presented groups with recursively insoluble word problem . A by-product of the proof is a genetic characterization of the recursively enumerable subsets of a suitable effectively enumerable set.
A Methodology to Determine Work Material Flow Stress and Tool-Chip Interfacial Friction Properties by Using Analysis of Machining

In this paper, we develop a methodology to determine flow stress at the machining regimes and friction characteristics at the tool-chip interface from the results of orthogonal cutting tests. We utilize metal cutting analysis originally developed by late Oxley and present some improvements. We also evaluate several temperature models in calculating the average temperatures at primary and secondary deformation zones and present comparisons with the experimental data obtained for AISI 1045 steel through assessment of machining models (AMM) activity. The proposed methodology utilizes measured forces and chip thickness obtained through a basic orthogonal cutting test. We conveniently determine work material flow stress at the primary deformation zone and the interfacial friction characteristics along the tool rake face. Calculated friction characteristics include parameters of the normal and frictional stress distributions on the rake face that are maximum normal stress Nmax, power exponent for the normal stress distribution, a, length of the plastic contact, lp, length of the tool-chip contact, lc, the average shear flow stress at tool-chip interface, kchip, and an average coefficient of friction, e, in the sliding region of the tool-chip interface. Determined flow stress data from orthogonal cutting tests is combined with the flow stress measured through split-hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) tests and the Johnson-Cook work material model is obtained. Therefore, with this methodology, we extend the applicability of a Johnson-Cook work material model to machining regimes. DOI: 10.1115/1.2118767
Some Properties and Uses of Micronized Coals

Mid-rank coals are rapidly comminuted by a stirred-ball slurry attritor mill. For individual coals the ease of comminution for slurry attrition correlates weakly with the Hardgrove Grindability Index. Relative hardness values from extended Hardgrove grindability tests have better predictive power. Extended attritor milling for periods of 15 min or more results in moderate incremental size reduction but brings about the progressive collapse of macropore structure and an increase in densities of the milled coals. Extended milling leads to undesirable effects with slurried coals, such as difficulty in drying, as well as reduction of chemical reactivity. Micronized coal with mean particle sizes less than 10 microns offer properties of interest to analytical chemists. The desulfurization of coal using a mild oxidative process is easier with micronized coal. Micronizing facilitates the deep-cleaning of coal. Deep-cleaned coal samples have been used to verify a method for the direct determination of organic sulf...
Imaging of Wall Motion Coupled With Blood Flow Velocity in the Heart and Vessels in Vivo: A Feasibility Study

The mechanical property and geometry changes as a result of cardiovascular disease affect both the wall motion and blood flow in the heart and vessels, whereas the latter two are also coupled and therefore continuously influence one another. Simultaneous and registered imaging of both cardiovascular wall motion and blood velocity may thus contribute to more complete computational models of cardiovascular mechanical and fluid dynamics as well as provide additional diagnostic information. The objective of this paper was to determine the feasibility of imaging cardiovascular wall motion coupled with blood flow in vivo. Normal (n = 6) and infarcted (n = 5) murine left ventricles, and normal (n = 5) and aneurysmal (n = 4) murine abdominal aortas, were imaged in longitudinal views with a 30-MHz ultrasound probe. Using electrocardiogram (ECG) gating, 2-D radio-frequency (RF) data were acquired at a frame rate of 8 kHz. The axial wall velocity and blood velocity were estimated using a speckle-tracking technique. Spatially and temporally registered imaging of both cardiovascular wall motion and blood flow was shown to be feasible. Reduced wall motion was detected in the infarcted region, whereas vortex flow patterns were imaged in diastolic phases of both normal and infarcted left ventricles. The myocardial wall motion and blood flow were found to be more synchronous in the normal heart, where the blood moves toward the anteroseptal wall after the mitral valve opens (i.e., rapid filling phase), and the anteroseptal wall simultaneously undergoes outward motion. In the infarcted heart, however, in the rapid filling phase, the basal anteroseptal wall starts moving about 20 ms before the mitral valve opens and the blood enters the left ventricle. In the normal aorta, the wall motion and blood velocity were uniform and synchronous. In the aneurysmal aorta, reduced and spatially varied wall motion and vortex flow patterns in the aneurysmal sac were found. The wall motion and blood velocity were thus less synchronous in the aneurysmal aorta. Cardiovascular wall motion and blood flow were both imaged in mice in vivo. This dual information may provide important insights for the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease as well as essential parameters for its biomechanical modeling.
A new self-interference and self-noise evaluation method for MIMO cellular devices

Self-interference and self-noise are key performance factors in cellular devices. Cellular standards such as GSM, UMTS and LTE include requirements for the measurement and reporting of the power and quality of received downlink signals. The purpose of these measurements is so the UE can report radio conditions to the network which are then used to optimize the Radio Resource Management (RRM) algorithms responsible for cell re-selection and handover procedures. This paper introduces a novel self-interference and self-noise evaluation method for MIMO receivers based on the device's own measurement capabilities which can be calibrated against known signals.
Identification of three distinct Clostridium thermocellum xylanase genes by molecular cloning.

Three genes coding for xylanase synthesis in Clostridium thermocellum were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Genomic DNA from Clostridium thermocellum was digested to completion with HindIII, BamHI, and SalI. The fragments were ligated into the corresponding sites of pUC19 and transformed into Escherichia coli. Two of the genes encoded for xylanases which depolymerized xylans but were unable to extensively convert these substrates to reducing sugar. The third gene encoded for an enzyme that extensively hydrolyzed xylan. The insert containing the latter gene was subjected to extensive mapping and was found to encode for a xylanase with a molecular weight of approximately 25,000. The protein product of the cloned gene was obtained in a relatively pure form by heat treatment, ion exchange and gel permeation steps. The enzyme was quite stable to high temperatures with a half-life of 24 h at 70°C.
Prelinguistic predictors of language growth in children with developmental disabilities.

This study followed 18 children with developmental disabilities, whose chronological ages were between 3 years and 6 years at the start of the study, over a 2-year period. At initial observation, c...
AN ANALYSIS OF MODIFICATIONS TO THE THREE‐STEP GUIDED COMPLIANCE PROCEDURE NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE COMPLIANCE AMONG PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

After a 3-step guided compliance procedure (vocal prompt, vocal plus model prompt, vocal prompt plus physical guidance) did not increase compliance, we evaluated 2 modifications with 4 preschool children who exhibited noncompliance. The first modification consisted of omission of the model prompt, and the second modification consisted of omitting the model prompt and decreasing the interprompt interval from 10 s to 5 s. Each of the modifications effectively increased compliance for 1 participant. For the remaining 2 participants, neither modification was effective; differential reinforcement in the form of contingent access to a preferred edible item was necessary to increase compliance. Problem behavior varied across participants, but was generally higher during guided compliance conditions and lower during differential reinforcement conditions.
Intracochlear schwannoma presenting as diffuse cochlear enhancement: diagnostic challenges of a rare cause of deafness

Intracochlear schwannoma is a rare, treatable, cause of unilateral hearing loss. Due to the small size, position, and variable clinical and imaging features, diagnosis presents a significant challenge and is often delayed. We present a case of a patient with an intracochlear schwannoma presenting as a diffuse enhancement of the cochlea, mimicking an infectious or inflammatory process. The absence of focal nodularity in this lesion on multiple high-resolution MRI examinations led to a delay of over 3 years from the patient’s initial presentation to surgical diagnosis. Clinical history and examination, imaging features, pathologic findings, and surgical management options are described.
The Actin Cytoskeleton Reorganization Induced by Rac1 Requires the Production of Superoxide

ABSTRACTThe small GTPase rac1 controls actin redistribution to membrane ruffles in fibroblasts and other cell types, as well as the activation of the NADPH oxidase in phagocytes. We explored the possibility that these two processes could be related. We used a replication-deficient adenoviral vector to overexpress the constitutively active form of rac1, racV12, in human and mouse aortic endothelial cells. We show here that, in addition to membrane ruffle formation, racV12 induced an increase in the total amount of F-actin within endothelial cells. Concurrently, racV12-overexpressing cells produced significantly higher amounts of free radicals, as detected by the fluorescent probe 5-(and-6)-chloromethyl-2′,7′-dichloro-dihydrofluorescein diacetate, than cells infected with a control virus encoding the bacterial β-galactosidase (Ad-βGal). To assess the specific role of superoxide in racV12-induced actin reorganization, we co-expressed the human enzyme Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD), by means of another aden...
Comparison of two disposable plastic skin test devices with the bifurcated needle for epicutaneous allergy testing.

Background The Greer DermaPIK and the Lincoln Diagnostics Duotip-Test are frequently used plastic, disposable, allergy skin testing devices. Objectives To compare the prick method of using the bifurcated needle and DermaPIK with the Duotip-Test using both the scratch (rotation) and prick methods for sensitivity, precision, and level of discomfort. Methods Skin-testing was done with histamine and saline on the back in triplicate on 24 volunteers (mean age 32.8, seven males). Wheal and erythema were measure and a photograph was taken. Discomfort was rated on an analog scale. Results The bifurcated needle and the Duotip-Test prick technique had significantly smaller histamine wheal and erythema responses than either the DermaPIK prick or Duotip-Test scratch techniques (P P P P .01). There was no statistical difference in the histamine coefficient of variation among the four methods. The Duotip-Test scratch method was rated significantly higher in patient discomfort (mean 21.6, P Conclusions The Duotip-Test scratch method had the largest mean wheal/erythema to histamine and the lowest CV. It had the most dermatographism and was more uncomfortable than the other methods. The other devices and methods were very similar in response to histamine and saline, and to precision and discomfort.
Gender matters: the influence of acculturation and acculturative stress on Latino college student depressive symptomatology

The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between acculturation-related variables with depressive symptomatology among Latino college students and the extent to which acculturative stress mediates the association. The extent to which gender moderates these relationships was also examined. Participants were 758 Latina and 264 Latino college students from 30 colleges and universities around the United States. Participants completed measures of acculturation, acculturative stress, and depression. Multigroup path analysis provided excellent model fit and suggested moderation by gender. Acculturative stress mediated the acculturation-depression relationship. One indirect effect was moderated by gender with effects stronger for men: Heritage-culture retention to depressive symptoms via Spanish Competency Pressures. Acculturation and acculturative stress contribute to depression differently for male and female Latino college students. Future research should note the influence of gender socialization on the acculturation process and mental health.
Decreased neuronal burst discharge near site of seizure onset in epileptic human temporal lobes.

Summary: We examined auto-correlation and interval distribution characteristics of neuronal discharge from patients with complex partial seizures. The objective was to compare the interictal firing patterns of neurons in mesial temporal structures ipsilateral to the site of seizure onset with firing patterns of neurons in homologous contralateral structures. Spontaneous interictal recordings of 258 single neurons were acquired from 23 patients. A “burst area” measure was derived from the neuronal auto-correlation to assess the likelihood of grouped action potential discharge (burst discharge). Large burst area measures indicate a tendency for single neuronal burst discharge, but do not disclose information about interspike intervals within bursts. Although several measures based on single neuronal interspike interval distributions showed no overall difference between hemispheres, burst area was significantly reduced in mesial temporal structures ipsilateral to the site of seizure onset. Possible mechanisms of decreased burst discharge in epileptogenic regions include selective loss of burst-discharging neurons and increased recurrent inhibition.
Molecular cytogenetic analysis of Spitz nevi shows clear differences to melanoma

Spitz nevus is a benign neoplasm of melanocytes that can be difficult or impossible to distinguish from melanoma by clinical and histopathologic examination. We studied genomic DNA from 17 Spitz nevi by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Thirteen lesions showed no chromosomal aberrations, three cases had a gain involving the entire p-arm of chromosome 11, and one case showed a gain of chromosome 7q21-qter. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on lesional tissue with a probe for the p-arm of chromosome 11 showed 6-10 p-arm signals per nucleus in those cases with a CGH-detected gain of chromosome 11p. One case with a normal CGH profile also showed increased copy number of 11p by FISH. Thus, the majority of Spitz nevi have a normal chromosomal complement at the level of CGH resolution; however some may contain gains, with 11p apparently being the most frequently involved location. These findings differ significantly from the previously reported changes in primary cutaneous melanoma, which show frequent deletions of chromosomes 9p (82%), 10q (63%), 6q (28%), and 8p (22%), as well as gains of chromosomes 7 (50%), 8 (34%), 6p (28%), 1q (25%) by CGH analysis. These clear differences in the location and frequencies of chromosomal aberrations in Spitz nevi and primary cutaneous melanomas could represent a basis for developing adjunctive techniques for refining accuracy in the difficult differential diagnosis of spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms.
The expanding family of guanylyl cyclases

Abstract The guanylyl cyclase receptor family contains members that exist in both the particulate and soluble fractions of cell homogenates. Soluble forms of the enzyme recognize EDRF (nitrix oxide) or similar molecules, while diversity within the extracellular domain of the plasma membrane forms has resulted in a series of guanylyl cyclases that are specifically activated by different ligands. David Garbers and colleagues describe the recent cloning of some of these molecules.
Predictive value of lipoprotein (a) and other serum lipoproteins in the angiographic diagnosis of coronary artery disease

To determine the relation among lipids in predicting coronary artery disease (CAD), 213 patients undergoing diagnostic angiography for suspected CAD were prospectively studied. Twenty-one patients had normal coronary arteries and 192 had CAD in 1 to 3 arteries at arteriography with measurements obtained with digital calipers. Lipoproteins were measured and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] was also assayed in a subset of 98 patients with CAD. Statistical analysis was performed using uni- and multivariate techniques to test the association among age, gender, systemic hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, family history, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoproteins (apo) A-I and apo B, ratio of apo A-I to apo B, and ratio of HDL cholesterol to total cholesterol, to Lp(a) and to CAD. All factors except gender, systemic hypertension, diabetes mellitus and cigarette smoking were univariate predictors of CAD. Multivariate predictors were, in decreasing order of significance, family history, age, HDL/total cholesterol ratio and apo B. When Lp(a) was included, multivariate predictors were age, family history, apo B and Lp(a), in that order. Lipid parameters alone showed that the HDL/total cholesterol ratio and that Lp(a) provide the best predictive tests for the detection of CAD in this referral population and may ultimately become important screening tests for CAD.
FDTD modeling of field and intensity correlations in 2-D active random media

Field and intensity correlations of electromagnetic waves propagating through random media in multi-channel waveguides have been studied extensively. The experimental results obtained in microwave waveguides are in good agreement with the predictions of analytical theory when absorption effect is taken into account [1]. This system provides a good framework for the study of localization phenomena. However the effect of coherent amplification on light localization has not yet been well understood. We studied the effect of optical gain on field and intensity correlations of electromagnetic waves propagating through active random media in 2-D multi-channel waveguides.
Beginners' strategies in example based expert systems

Supervising student teams who worked with expert practitioners to build prototype expert systems has yielded insights into the frustrations and rewards of the early stages of knowledge engineering. This paper presents these insights to the expert systems community, particularly those beginning their first project or entering a wholly new application area. We focus on example based rule induction shells without imprecision. While such tools are generally too limited for implementing a finished, deliverable expert system, they are useful for “breaking the ice” with a quick, inexpensive demonstration system while acquiring the vital first elements of the eventual expert knowledge base.
Flow transport and gas mixing during invasive high frequency oscillatory ventilation.

Abstract A large Eddy simulation (LES) based computational fluid dynamics study was performed to investigate gas transport and mixing in patient specific human lung models during high frequency oscillatory ventilation. Different pressure-controlled waveforms (sinusoidal, exponential and square) and ventilator frequencies (15, 10 and 6 Hz) were used (tidal volume = 50 mL). The waveforms were created by solving the equation of motion subjected to constant lung wall compliance and flow resistance. Simulations were conducted with and without endotracheal tube to understand the effect of invasive management device. Variation of pressure-controlled waveform and frequency exhibits significant differences on counter flow pattern, which could lead to a significant impact on the gas mixing efficiency. Pendelluft-like flow was present for the sinusoidal waveform at all frequencies but occurred only at early inspiration for the square waveform at highest frequency. The square waveform was most efficient for gas mixing, resulting in the least wall shear stress on the lung epithelium layer thereby reducing the risk of barotrauma to both airways and the alveoli for patients undergoing therapy.
Oxazepam is mutagenic in vivo in Big Blue transgenic mice.

Although oxazepam (Serax), a widely used benzodiazepine anxiolytic, does not induce gene mutations in vitro or chromosomal aberrations in vivo, it was found to be a hepatocarcinogen in a 2 year bioassay in B6C3F1 mice. Thus, it was of interest to determine whether this carcinogen is mutagenic in vivo. Male B6C3F1 Big Blue transgenic mice were fed 2500 p.p.m. oxazepam or control diet alone for 180 days and killed on the next day. The mutant frequency (MF) of lacI in control mice was 5.02 +/- 2.4x10(5), whereas the MF in the oxazepam-treated mice was 9.17 +/- 4.82x10(-5), a significant increase (P T:A and G:C-->C:G transversions and a concomitant decrease in G:C-->A:T transitions were observed. Clonal expansion of mutations at guanines in 5'-CpG-3' sequencing contexts at three sites was noted. It is postulated that some of the mutations found in the oxazepam-derived spectrum were due to oxidative damage elicited by induction of CYP2B isozymes as the result of chronic oxazepam administration. This study demonstrates that the in vivo Big Blue transgenic rodent mutation assay can detect mutations derived from a carcinogen that did not induce gene mutations in vitro or micronuclei in mouse bone marrow. Moreover, the sequencing of the recovered mutants can distinguish between the mutation spectrum from treated mice compared with that from control mice, thereby confirming the genotoxic consequences.
Effects of Solar Modulation on the Low-Energy Cosmic Ray Antiproton/Proton Ratio

We examine the transport of cosmic-ray protons and anitprotons from local interstellar space through the interplanetary medium to Earth and discuss the resulting effects on the low-energy antiproton/proton ratio at 1 AU. We find that the antiproton/proton ratio at energies above ~3 GeV is a useful diagnostic of cosmic-ray transport in the Galaxy. However, at energies below ~1 GeV the expected ratio is much more uncertain because of differences in the energy spectra and the resulting relative modulation of protons and antiprotons over the solar cycle, as well as uncertainties in the interstellar spectra. Using calculated interstellar spectra as references, we find that the antiproton/proton ratio at low energies varies by as much as an order of magnitude over the solar cycle. As a result, we recommend that attention be given instead to interpretation of the measured cosmic-ray antiproton energy spectrum rather than to the antiproton/proton ratio.
Multilateralism, Major Powers, and Militarized Disputes

American foreign policy has been animated by public debate between multilateralism and unilateralism in recent years. Some strains of traditional realist thinking suggest that major powers like the...
Efficient Peptide Coupling Involving Sterically Hindered Amino Acids

Hindered amino acids have been introduced into peptide chains by coupling N-(Cbz- and Fmoc-α-aminoacyl)benzotriazoles with amino acids, wherein at least one of the components was sterically hindered, to provide compounds 3a−e, (3c +3 c‘), 5a−d, (5a + 5a‘), 6a−c, (6b + 6b‘), 8a−c, 9a−e, 10a−d, and (10a + 10a‘) in isolated yields of 41−95% with complete retention of chirality as evidenced by NMR and HPLC analysis. The benzotriazole activation methodology is a new route for the synthesis of sterically hindered peptides. (Note: compound numbers written within brackets represent diastereomeric mixtures or racemates; compound numbers without brackets represent enantiomers.)
Dimensional Separation Of Low Molecular Weight Compounds

Abstract The current status of separation of low molecular weight compounds by size exclusion chromatography and the hybrid modes, size partition and size adsorption chromatography is reviewed.
Factors driving land use change and forest distribution on the coastal plain of Mississippi, USA

Abstract Forest distribution is controlled by broad regional trends in land use and by the specific natural and anthropogenic features of a particular site. To separate these influences in landscapes of the Southeastern coastal plain we describe land cover history outside the small city of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, USA, a rural landscape originally occupied by pine savanna and mixed forests. Land cover was recorded at 296 point locations regularly spaced on a 1 km grid. Aerial photographs from 1938, 1958, 1970, 1982, 2000, and 2010 illustrated a progression from open land to pine savanna, Southern Mixed Hardwood Forest (SMF), and built land cover, with low-density residential development encroaching after 1980 – a pattern reflecting broad regional trends in the mid and late 20th century. Examination of point-transitions showed frequent conversion between recent clearcuts and SMF, indicating rapid cycling of small parcels in short rotation forestry, and long-term conversion of abandoned agricultural land to SMF, reflecting regional regrowth following the lumber boom of the early 20th century. Pine savanna declined by introgression of hardwood species rather than by cutting. Logistic regression identified land on floodplains and distant from developed areas as most likely to regenerate as SMF. After 1980 urban expansion was most likely to occur close to existing buildings and arterial roads, suggesting nucleation outside the historical urban core. Thus, modern forest distribution has been decoupled from the natural environmental template. Recent land use changes appear to be driven by proximity to the expanding city rather than regional economic trends.
Malignant T-Wave Alternans

A36-year-old woman was referred after her son had syncopal episodes associated with a markedly prolonged QT interval, which was treated with β-blockers and a subsequent pacemaker. The mother had a history of “seizures” as a child that had been treated with various medications, which did not appear to affect her events. She continued to have episodes 2 to 3 times a year, and witnesses said she would “stiffen up and gasp for air.” …
Using narratives and storytelling to communicate science with nonexpert audiences

Although storytelling often has negative connotations within science, narrative formats of communication should not be disregarded when communicating science to nonexpert audiences. Narratives offer increased comprehension, interest, and engagement. Nonexperts get most of their science information from mass media content, which is itself already biased toward narrative formats. Narratives are also intrinsically persuasive, which offers science communicators tactics for persuading otherwise resistant audiences, although such use also raises ethical considerations. Future intersections of narrative research with ongoing discussions in science communication are introduced.
Understanding the switch from pain-to-itch in dermatitis.

evere chronic itch is debilitating symptom that results from a large umber of pathological conditions including skin disorders, organ ailure, and even some types of cancers [1]. In particular, conditions hat are associated with inflammation of the skin—such as atopic ermatitis and contact dermatitis—commonly result in itch that is ifficult to treat. Moreover, excessive scratching causes skin damge and release of inflammatory mediators that exacerbates itch, esulting in a pathological itch-scratch cycle. However, currently here are no effective drugs for the treatment of itch in dermatiis. While antihistamines reduce itch caused by hives, they have imited efficacy for most other types of itch, including atopic and ontact dermatitis. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in the field of itch, nd a large number of new pruritogens (itch-inducing agents) and heir receptors have been identified. Of these, histamine is the prootypical pruritogen, which is released from dermal mast cells and ctivates mechano-insensitive C-fibers to produce itch [2]. In addiion to histamine, there are numerous other pruritogens such as owhage, chloroquine, bovine adrenal medulla 8-22 (BAM8-22), nd serotonin, that likely cause itch via the activation of a disinct population (or populations) of primary afferents [3–8]. These gents cause acute itch in humans and/or trigger vigorous scratchng behavior when injected into the skin of mice. However, we still o not understand which factors are responsible for itch in disease tates like dermatitis, highlighting the pressing need for a better nderstanding of mechanisms underlying chronic itch. Just as people who suffer from chronic pain often experince hyperalgesia and allodynia, people suffering from chronic tch often experience hyperknesis and alloknesis. This ‘itchy-skin’ s commonly seen in dermatitis, where numerous innocuus stimuli—light touch, gentle brushing or contact with wool ber—cause extraneous itch [9,10]. Moreover, substances such as radykinin, which are normally experienced as painful, inappropritely cause itch rather than pain for people with atopic dermatitis 11].
Are we there yet? What's next for HR?

Abstract Over the last three decades, the practice of HR has experienced significant transformation. This has included HR moving from being a lower level, administrative and maintenance oriented function to operating in many organizations as a core business function and a strategic business partner. Because of dramatic changes that have occurred in HR, the question arises whether HR has arrived at its final destination or whether the journey will continue and if so, what is next for HR? In setting the stage to discuss the future of HR, we briefly describe the journey HR has traveled thus far since its emergence as a field. We characterize HR's journey as having a singular direction and that is to add value to the organization. To continue in this direction we propose that future HR will need to adopt an outside/inside approach where the external environment and stakeholders influence what HR does inside the organization. From this, we discuss other specific actions HR will need, in order to add value, with respect to targets for HR work (individual, organizational, and leadership) and areas for HR investments (HR function, HR practices, HR people, and HR analytics). We present a number of propositions on these that can be used by researchers and practitioners in guiding future research and practice.