cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coupled Oscillations in Neural Control of Breathing

The respiratory rhythm inmammals is generated by a respiratory central pattern generator (CPG) in the brainstem and encompasses both pons and medulla (see Fig. 1; Alheid and McCrimmon 2008; Smith et al. 2013). The pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BotC), located in the ventrolateral region of the medulla, is the putative kernel of rhythmic inspiratory activity. The pre-BotC interacts with the expiratory neurons of Botzinger complex (BotC) to generate primary respiratory oscillations. These oscillations are defined by both the intrinsic biophysical properties of neurons involved and the network interactions within and between the pre-BotC and BotC. Through the premotor neurons of the rostral ventral respiratory group (rVRG), these oscillations produce rhythmic drive to phrenic motoneurons that through the phrenic nerve (PN) control movements of the diaphragm and lung inflation. A distinct site of neural oscillations involved with the respiratory function, located more rostral to the pre-BotC, was identified in vitro, in the isolated brainstem-spinal cord preparation. The source of these oscillations, which was termed parafacial respiratory group (pFRG), was found to reside within the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) or partially overlaps with it (Onimaru and Homma 2003; Janczewski and Feldman 2006). The pFRG oscillations emerge with increased metabolic demands (e.g., hypercapnia) and via abdominal nerve (AbN) drive abdominal muscles enabling forced lung deflation (active expiration). This rhythmic activity is coupled to the pre-BotC oscillations so that generated bursts represent late-expiratory (late-E) or sometimes biphasic (containing pre-inspiratory, pre-I, and post-inspiratory, post-I, components) discharges (Janczewski and Feldman 2006; Abdala et al. 2009). Several competing concepts concerning the appearance of RTN/pFRG oscillations and their physiological function have been suggested (Janczewski et al. 2002; Onimaru and Homma 2003; Abdala et al. 2009; Molkov et al. 2010). However, there are still heated debates on the exact physiological role of RTN/pFRG oscillations, the specific conditions for their emergence, and the nature and mechanisms of the interactions between the BotC/pre-BotC and RTN/pFRG oscillators.
Heterocyclic compounds—VI : Some phenanthridine derivatives via enamines

Abstract Substituted tetrahydrophenanthridones obtained by the reaction of aryl isocyanates with enamines from 4-benzoyloxycyclohexanone have been transformed into a series of phenanthridine and tetrahydrophenanthridine derivatives possessing various functional groups.
A fast hypergraph minimum cut algorithm

We present the fastest algorithm known today for computing a global minimum cut in a hypergraph. Unlike most minimum cut algorithms which rely on flow computations in a network, ours is a non-flow based algorithm. Since the netlist of a circuit can be modelled naturally as a hypergraph, this opens the opportunity for finding very high quality solutions for the circuit partitioning problem.
Accounting for Liabilities at Fair Value: The Advantage of Relational Versus Informational Disclosures in Interpreting Credit Risk Changes

One objection to fair value accounting for liabilities is that changes in a company’s credit risk are recognized as gains or losses in a manner that is counterintuitive to the way gains and losses are typically interpreted (Lipe 2002). Specifically, when a company’s credit risk increases (decreases), the company reports a gain (loss). To address constituents’ concerns about the potential for misinterpretation arising from this accounting (FASB 2006), the FASB mandated informational disclosures for changes in a company’s own credit risk. Using CPAs as participants, we experimentally find (1) over 70 percent of participants fail to properly assess a company’s credit risk from recognized fair value gains or losses even when provided with informational disclosures, (2) participants’ assessments of risk significantly improve when relational disclosures (i.e., disclosures explicating the association between credit risk changes and income statement effects) are presented, and (3) relational disclosures are more beneficial when fair value gains versus losses are recognized, but additional disclosures do not eliminate misinterpretations.
A 600 MHz DSP with 24 Mb embedded DRAM with an enhanced instruction set for wireless communication

A 600 MHz general-purpose DSP with 24 Mb of embedded DRAM, 154 GOPS, 4800 MMACS, and 40 Gb/s I/O throughput is presented. The chip contains over 60M transistors and is implemented in 0.13 /spl mu/m 8M CMOS technology.
The fluconazole era : Management of hematogenously disseminated candidiasis in the nonneutropenic patient

Hematogenously disseminated candidiasis arising from nosocomial fungal infection is a life-threatening complication in critically ill, nonneutropenic patients. The overall nosocomial fungal infection rate in United States hospitals doubled from 1980-1990. Until recently, amphotericin B was the only agent available for the treatment of life-threatening candidal infections, but its use is plagued by toxicities including nephrotoxicity and infusion-related reactions such as rigors and hypotension. The availability of fluconazole, which is regarded as much less toxic than amphotericin B, prompted a surge in research to determine if it is as efficacious in the management of candidemia and hematogenously disseminated candidiasis. Complicating the interpretation of studies is the broad range of infection severity, from candidemia that may be transient and self-limiting to life-threatening hematogenously disseminated candidiasis. Clinical trials comparing fluconazole and amphotericin B demonstrate the efficacy of fluconazole for catheter-associated candidemia in critically ill patients when the likely pathogen is Candida albicans. Amphotericin B should remain the first-line agent for the management of candidemia and hematogenously disseminated candidiasis in all other patients.
Sex hormones and sexual orientation in animals.

This review critically examines whether sex hormone exposure during prenatal or early postnatal development determines the adult sexual orientation (sexual preferences) of animals. In rats, hamsters, ferrets, pigs, zebra finches, and possibly dogs, either early castration of males or early testosterone treatment of females or both have been shown to change or reverse sexual orientation. The effects of early sex hormone exposure on copulatory behavior, studies of prenatal hormones and sexual orientation in humans, different animal models for research on sexual orientation, and the desirability of a broad psychobiological investigation of sexual orientation in animais are discussed.
Peanuts for preschoolers: less preposterous than previously perceived?

Cite this as: J. S. Kim and K. M. Jarvinen, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 914–916.
Overview of randomized trials of antiarrhythmic drugs and devices for the prevention of sudden cardiac death.

Abstract Background Sudden cardiac death is a prominent feature of the natural history of heart disease. The efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs and devices in preventing sudden death and reducing total mortality is uncertain. Methods We reviewed randomized trials and quantitative overviews of type I and type III antiarrhythmic drugs. We also reviewed the randomized trials of implantable cardioverter defibrillators and combined these outcomes in a quantitative overview. Results Randomized trials of type I antiarrhythmic agents used as secondary prevention after myocardial infarction show an overall 21% increase in mortality rate. Randomized trials of amiodarone suggest a 13% to 19% decrease in mortality rate, and sotalol has been effective in several small trials. Trials of pure type III agents, however, have shown no mortality benefit. An overview of implantable defibrillator trials shows a 24% reduction in mortality rate (CI 15%-33%) compared with alternative therapy, most often amiodarone. Conclusion Amiodarone is effective in reducing the total mortality rate by 13% to 19%, and the implantable defibrillator reduces the mortality rate by a further 24%. (Am Heart J 2002;144:422-30.)
Operant Conditioning of Factor Analytic Personality Traits

(1962). Operant Conditioning of Factor Analytic Personality Traits. The Journal of General Psychology: Vol. 66, No. 1, pp. 101-114.
Determinants of Dental Referral Practices Among WIC Nutritionists in North Carolina

Objectives To examine the effects of knowledge and confidence on dental referral practices among WIC nutritionists in North Carolina. Methods A questionnaire consisting of 118 Likert scale-type questions was administered to 92% of all WIC nutritionists in North Carolina (n = 324). The relationship of knowledge and confidence with frequent dental referrals was tested using logistic regression. Results Regression results found that confidence in performing oral health risk assessments (OR = 2.12; 95% CI = 1.13, 3.96), confidence in making dental referrals (OR = 3.02; 95% CI = 1.45-6.29), and confidence in expected outcomes that parents would seek dental care when advised to do so (OR = 3.11; 95% CI = 1.62, 5.97) were associated with more frequent dental referrals. Conclusions The more confident WIC nutritionists feel about oral health, the more likely they are to make dental referrals. Screening and referral by WIC workers may benefit children by improving access to dental care, as the WIC clinic is frequently the first point of contact with a health professional.
Closed-form error estimators for the linear strain and quadratic strain tetrahedron finite elements

Abstract Closed-form representations of the Zienkiewicz-Zhu error estimators for straight edge linear and quadratic strain tetrahedral elements are presented. The closed-form representation of the element error estimators was developed using symbolic algebra. Dramatic computational time savings result in the element error estimator evaluation phase of the FEM process when the closed-form representation is used as compared with the use of Gaussian cubature.
Hydrothermal syntheses and structural chemistry of Mn(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) coordination polymers with xylyl-diphosphonate ligands

Abstract The hydrothermal reactions of the appropriate metal salt, a xylyldiphosphonic acid and a secondary organonitrogen chelating ligand yielded a series of coordination polymers of the M(II)/xylyldiphosphonate/(organoimine chelate family) with M(II) represented by Mn(II), Co(II) and Ni(II); the 1,2-, 1,3- and 1,4-isomers of xylyldiphosphonate; and the organoimine chelate present as 2,2′-bipyridine (bpy), o-phenanthroline (o-phen) or tetra-2-pyridinylpyrazine (tpyprz). Several representative structural types were observed related to the constraints imposed by the xylyldiphosphonate ligand: the two-dimensional materials [Mn(bpy)(1,2-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (1), [Mn(o-phen)(1,2-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (4) and [Co(o-phen)(1,2-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (7) constructed from {M2(N^N)2(HO3PR)2} clusters linked through the xylyl backbone of the ligands; the network structures of the series [M(bpy)(1,3-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (M Mn (2), Co (6), Ni (12) and [M(o-phen)(1,3-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (M Mn (5) and Co (8)) which consists of {M2(N^N)2(HO3PR)2}n chains linked through the xylyl tethers; and the virtual two-dimensional series [M(N^N)2(1,4-H2O3PC8H8PO3H2)(1,4-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (M Mn, N^N bpy (3); M Co, N^N o-phen (10); and M Ni, N^N o-phen (14)) which contain one-dimensional {M(N^N)2(1,4-H2O3PC8H8PO3H2)}n2n+ chains hydrogen-bonded to (HO3PC8H8PO3H)2− anions to provide expansion in two dimensions. The unique example of a three-dimensional material is [Co(o-phen)(1,4-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (9). The tpyprz containing compounds [M(tpyprz)(1,2-HO3PC8H8PO3H)] (M Co (11), Ni (15)) and [Ni2(tpyprz)(1,4-HO3PC8H8PO3H)]·4H2O (16) are one-dimensional.
Seasonal constancy of intra-population variation of HCN content of costa rican Acacia farnesiana foliage

Abstract The HCN content of dried Acaciafarnesiana foliage varies from 0.0 to 5.49 μmol/g among individuals within a population ( X = 1.80, s.d. = 1.80 in wet season; X = 1.21, s.d. = 1.27 in dry season; n = 26) and increased in the wet season (average difference of 0.59 μmol/g) in Santa Rosa National Park, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica. The correlation coefficient of HCN values for 26 bushes in the wet and the dry season was 0.898, suggesting that the seasonal change was proportional to the amount of HCN present in the foliage of each bush.
Computations of vortical supersonic flows over a blunt-nose-cylinder at high angles of attack

Three-dimensional, viscous, and separated flows over a blunt-nose-cylinder at 20, 32, and 44-deg attack angles were computed. The approaching freestream was at a Mach number of 1.6 and a unit Reynolds number of 2 x 10 to the 6th/ft with a total temperature of 585 R. The cylinder used for the computations had a length-to-diameter ratio of 6.67 with a base diameter of 3 in. The flowfield was dominated by large-scale and multiple vortices generated by crossflow separation. The effect of turbulence on the flow structure of one case was modeled algebraically with modifications to correct the length and velocity scales in the regions of separation. The mass averaged Navier-Stokes equations were solved by an approximately factored, upwind-biased, implicit, finite volume scheme. The initialization of the flows was enhanced by a mesh sequencing strategy applied to the diagonalized form of the discretized equations. The convergence to steady-state was accelerated by a multigrid algorithm and using the block inversions for the discretized equations. Calculations were compared with experimental results.
Estimation of octanol/water partition coefficients: Evaluation of six methods for highly hydrophobic aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract Six methods for estimating log K ow were evaluated using a set of experimental values for 64 aromatic compounds. All log K ow values used in this evaluation were experimentally measured using a generator-column technique. This provided an accurate, self-consistent set of compounds having log K ow values ranging from 2.13 to 8.58. The estimation methods examined included two group contribution methods and four correlative methods utilizing molecular weight, HPLC retention time, molecular connectivity index, and total molecular surface area.
Ensuring high-quality primary care for women: predictors of success.

Background Provider gender, provider specialty, and clinic setting affect quality of primary care delivery for women, but previous research has not examined these factors in combination. The purpose of this study is to determine whether separate or combined effects of provider gender, availability of gynecologic services from the provider, and women’s clinic setting improve patient ratings of primary care. Methods Women veterans receiving care in women’s clinics or traditional primary care at 10 Veteran’s Affair (VA) medical centers completed a mailed questionnaire ( N = 1321, 61%) rating four validated domains of primary care (preference for provider, communication, coordination, and accumulated knowledge). For each domain, summary scores were calculated and dichotomized into perfect score (maximum score) versus other. Multiple logistic regressions were used to estimate the probability of a perfect score in each domain while controlling for patient characteristics and site. Results Female provider was significantly associated with perfect ratings for communication and coordination. Providing gynecologic care was significantly associated with perfect ratings for male and female providers. Patients who used a women’s clinic and had a female provider who gave gynecologic care had perfect or nearly perfect ratings for preference for provider, communication, and accumulated knowledge. Conclusion Gynecologic services are linked to patient ratings of primary care separate from and in synergy with the effect of female provider. Male and female providers should consider offering routine gynecologic services or working in coordination with a setting that provides gynecologic services. Health care evaluations should assess scope of services for provider and practice.
THE EFFECTS OF EXTRAPERIOSTEAL INJECTIONS OF BLOOD COMPONENTS ON PERIOSTEAL CELL PROLIFERATION

Following extraperiosteal injections of saline, serum, or whole blood, the synthesis of DNA in the cells of the osteogenic layer of the femora of mice was stimulated to approximately two-thirds of the level obtained by fracture of the femora. Irrespective of the material injected, the proliferative response of the cells in the periosteum was similar. These studies have shown that neither bone fracture nor direct disruption of the periosteum is necessary to induce periosteal cell proliferation since a single extraperiosteal injection of physiological saline induces DNA synthesis.
State-contingent regulatory mechanisms and fairly priced deposit insurance

Abstract This paper presents a model of incentive compatible bank regulation under moral hazard and adverse selection. We derive a wide range of simple and conceptually implementable mechanisms that can solve each type of incentive problem separately and also achieve the first-best outcome – but only when regulatory instruments involve ex post pricing that is contingent on the bank's performance relative to the market. An important feature of these mechanisms is that they do not involve a subsidy to the bank. When the regulator faces both moral hazard and adverse selection simultaneously, we identify the conditions under which the same mechanism can achieve the first-best solution.
Method for the detection of diethylamine, a metabolite of disulfiram, in urine

Disulfiram is a drug used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism in man. Accurate assessment of patient compliance is important in this treatment. This paper describes a method for the detection and quantitative analysis of diethylamine, a metabolite of disulfiram, in urine. The method involves conversion of the water-soluble diethylamine in the urine to a derivative, N,N-diethyl-3,5-dinitrobenzamide, that is soluble in an organic solvent. This derivative is extracted from urine with diethyl ether and then subjected to thin-layer chromatography. A spectrophotometric procedure is used for quantification. This method provides a means of determining whether or not a patient is taking his prescribed disulfiram.
Superconductivity and magnetism in 11-structure iron chalcogenides in relation to the iron pnictides

This is a review of the magnetism and superconductivity in '11'-type Fe chalcogenides, as compared to the Fe-pnictide materials. The chalcogenides show many differences from the pnictides, as might be anticipated from their very varied chemistries. These differences include stronger renormalizations that might imply stronger correlation effects as well as different magnetic ordering patterns. Nevertheless the superconducting state and mechanism for superconductivity are apparently similar for the two classes of materials. Unanswered questions and challenges to theory are emphasized.
Insulin receptors and the site of action of insulin.

Abstract There is considerable evidence that insulin receptors located on the plasma membrane of target cells directly mediate the short- term effects of insulin on plasma membrane functions such as glucose transport. These receptors are composed of four subunits, contain two or more binding sites, and show features of negative cooperativity. Insulin directly regulates the number of its receptors on the plasma membrane and this regulation appears to play a major role in certain insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant states in both man and animals. Specific insulin binding sites, distinct from those on the plasma membrane, are also found on intracellular organelles including the nucleus, smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. The role of these intracellular binding sites is unknown. The recent evidence that insulin may enter target cells raises the possibility that such intracellular binding sites are directly involved in the long-term effects of insulin on intracellular functions such as protein, RNA and DNA synthesis.
Resolution of component spectra for spinach chloroplasts and green algae by means of factor analysis

Abstract Using a multivariate analysis method known as factor analysis, we have studied two distinct components in the room temperature fluorescence of broken spinach chloroplasts and of two species of algae. This method provides excitation and emission spectra of the components without physical separation and with a minimum of assumptions about the shape of the spectra. In spinach chloroplasts, both components had excitation maxima at 680 nm. Component 1, containing mostly Photosystem I, had a stronger far-red absorbance, and had an emission maximum at 683 nm with a very pronounced shoulder from 710 to 750 nm. Component 2, containing mostly Photosystem II, had a slightly stronger absorbance at 650 nm. Its emission maximum was at 682 nm with a weak band from 710 to 750 nm, similar to those of isolated Photosystem II particles. The spectra from Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Scenedesmus quadricauda were different from those of spinach. Component 1 in algae had an excitation maximum of 680 nm and an emission maximum of 690 nm, without the strong 710–750 nm shoulder. Algal component 2 had peak excitation at 670 nm and peak emission at 685 nm. In both spinach chloroplasts and the algae, the integrated fluorescence from component 1 was 20–40% of the total. The Stepanov temperature of component 2 was within 10 K of the ambient temperature, providing strong evidence for good equilibration within and between the excited states of Photosystem II. The Stepanov temperature of component 1 was less well defined, with a median value of 330 K or more, suggesting a lack of equilibration in Photosystem I. Thus, calculations of free-energy yield based on an assumption of excited-state equilibrium should be valid for Photosystem II, but may not be valid for Photosystem I.
Chronic recurrent ectopic junctional tachycardia resembling triggered automaticity in mitral valve prolapse syndrome

Reprint requests: Pablo Denes, M.D., Professor of Medicine, Cardioiogy Dept., Presbyterian St. Luke’s Wospitai, 1753 W. Congress Parkway, Chicago, IL 60612. rheumatic fever, infarction of the posterior myocardial wall, and following cardiac surgery.” A recent study reported four infants with automatic AV junctional tachycardia describing the electrocardiographic, electrophysiologic characteristic, and pharmacologic response of the arrhythmia.3 Two of the infants died, suggesting that “junctional ectopic tachycardia” is a life-threatening arrhythmia in children. We report the electr~~hysiolo~c evaluation of a young patient with mitral valve prolapse in whom this arrhythmia has been documented for the past 7 years. The electrophysiologic findings resembled those seen in experimental animal models of triggered automaticity.’ This H-year-old black female has been known since age 2% years to have a heart murmur. On subsequent followup evaluations her standard and ambulatory ECG recordings revealed runs of sustained and nonsustained junctional tachycardia at rates of 70 to 154 bpm lasting from a few beats to several minutes (Fig. 1, A and B). She was admitted for more detailed evaluation and improved therapy. Her admission EGG showed sinus bradycardia at 55 bpm with junctional escape beats, atria1 premature beats, and nonspecific T wave abnormalities. Examination revealed apical midsystolic click with late systolic murmur, and cardiac catheterization documented mitral valve prolapse without regurgitation. Electrophysiologic study was performed utilizing an Electronics for Medicine VR12 recorder with tape recording (Instrumentation Recorder Model 3968A) and a Medtronics 5325 programmable
Carrying capacity as a tool of development policy: the Ecuadoran Amazon and the Paraguayan Chaco

The remaining sparsely inhabited portions of the world (polar regions, deserts, tropical rainforests) have been “saved for last” for good reason. They are difficult to inhabit and have low average carrying capacity for human activities. Sparse populations are all that have ever been sustainably supported by the ecosystems of such areas. The concept of carrying capacity is an indispensable tool for planning the rational use of these areas, as has been demonstrated recently by Phillip M. Fearnside in his Human Carrying Capacity and the Brazilian Rainforest (1986) and earlier by G. Ledec, R. Goodland, J. Kirchner, and J. Drake, Carrying capacity. population growth, and sustainable deoelopment (1985). The present note aims to supplement these two works by showing how in two specific cases even very simple and crude estimates of carrying capacity can have significant policy implications. For humans the calculation of carrying capacity is far more complex than for other species. Other species have “standards of Living” that are constant over time (animals and plants do not experience economic growth, although consumption may vary over the life cycle). Also they have relatively uniform “standards of living” (i.e., per-capita resource consumption levels) throughout their populations at a given point in time (no class inequality, with a few exceptions such as social insects whose class structure is genetic rather than social). And the technologies of other species are also relatively constant genetically given endosomatic technologies that have co-evolved with the environment and are consequently well-adapted to it. Furthermore the level of international or inter-ecosystem “trade” among animals is
Thrombin effects on cultured nerve cells: clinical implications and evidence for a novel mechanism of neuronal activation.

Central nervous system tissue in vivo is composed of a wide heterogeneity of cell types, such as neurons, glia, and vascular endothelium. One experimental approach that is commonly used to circumvent the inherent problems encountered in studying neuronal phenomena is the use of cloned nerve cells such as have been derived from the C1300 murine neuroblastoma. One clone, designated N1E-115, has been extensively characterized both biochemically and electrophysiologically, and represents a widely used cell culture system for neurobiological studies.' Inasmuch as cloned cells constitute a population of neurons derived from a single cell, specific questions can be addressed to a single aspect of neuronal function.
Variegation and silencing of the Heat Shock Cognate 80 gene are relieved by a bipartite downstream regulatory element

Transgenes are important tools for plant molecular biologists. However, some aspects of their regulation are not completely understood. First, the contribution of elements separate from the promoter has been documented for several genes, but a general requirement for such elements is still unclear. Second, transgene expression can be subject to variability from chromosomal position effects and from epigenetic effects, often due to the presence of repeated sequences. While studying the regulation of the developmentally expressed Heat Shock Cognate 80 (HSC80) gene, several peculiarities were found which involve both of these questions. First, HSC80 transgenes are subject to silencing and variegation at a high frequency. Second, a bipartite element downstream of the transcriptional start is necessary to achieve efficient expression from the HSC80 promoter in stable transformants. Finally, this bipartite element is not required for expression in a transient system, where the promoter alone is sufficient. These results together support a role for chromatin structure in the regulation of HSC80.
The role of serotonin in the control of pedal ciliary activity by identified neurons in Tritonia diomedea.

Abstract 1. A pair of identified neurons (Pd 21) in the pedal ganglia of Tritonia diomedea are capable of exciting pedal ciliary beating. 2. These neurons contain serotonin, but not acetylcholine, dopamine, norepinephrine or histamine. Other identifiable serotonergic neurons are also found in the Tritonia brain. 3. Serotonin (10 −7 g/ml) excites ciliary beating in isolated foot strips bathed in a high Mg 2+ -low Ca 2+ solution. 4. Serotonin injected into intact Tritonia prolonged pedal ciliary beating. 5. The Pd 21 neurons probably release serotonin into spaces in the foot, where the serotonin exerts its excitatory effect on the ciliated cells.
Asthma genetics and genomics 2009

Asthma Genetic Association studies have been plagued by methodologic problems that are common in all studies of complex traits: small sample size, lack of replication, and lack of control of population stratification. Despite this, the field has identified 43 replicated genes from association studies. The most frequently replicated are: TNF alpha, IL4, FCERB, Adam 33, and GSTP1. Several genes have been identified by linkage and fine mapping (ADAM33, DPP10, GPR154, and PHF11) and one gene has been identified by GWAS (ORMD3). The major issue is that these genes have been looked at one at a time rather than in some more holistic manner where epistasis is considered. For asthma genetics to begin to have an impact on clinical medicine we need to consider epistatic interaction.
Forgetting the presidents

Two studies examined how U.S. presidents are forgotten. A total of 415 undergraduates in 1974, 1991, and 2009 recalled as many presidents as possible and attempted to place them in their correct ordinal positions. All showed roughly linear forgetting of the eight or nine presidents prior to the president holding office at the time, and recall of presidents without respect to ordinal position also showed a regular pattern of forgetting. Similar outcomes occurred with 497 adults (ages 18 to 69) tested in 2014. We fit forgetting functions to the data to predict when six relatively recent presidents will recede in memory to the level of most middle presidents (e.g., we predict that Truman will be forgotten to the same extent as McKinley by about 2040). These studies show that forgetting from collective memory can be studied empirically, as with forgetting in other forms of memory.
Transitions or turnovers? Climatically-forced extinctions of Homo sapiens and Neanderthals in the east Mediterranean Levant

Abstract The East Mediterranean Levant is a focal point for debate about evolutionary continuity among Late Pleistocene hominin populations. Changes in the Levantine Middle and Upper Palaeolithic archaeological records are almost invariably described in terms of adaptive shifts and behavioural transitions, rather than as changes in hominin populations. This paper examines evidence for hominin evolutionary continuity in the Levant between 130 and 25 ka. Two inflection points, one within the Middle Palaeolithic ca 75 ka and the other between the Middle and Upper Palaeolithic ca 45 ka, are examined in light of recently-discovered evidence for rapid climate change and environmental deterioration. It is proposed that both periods mark regional extinctions and turnovers of hominin populations. The first of these occurred among early Homo sapiens , the second among Neanderthals. Each event was followed by dispersal of hominin populations into the Levant from adjacent regions. Differences in Middle vs. Upper Palaeolithic Homo sapiens ’ long-term success in the Levant may reflect recently-evolved strategies for coping with rapid climate change and with colder arid habitats.
Screen film versus digital mammography: a perceptual analysis of postprocessed hard copy images

In this investigation we studied the imaging characteristics of a mammographic screen-film (MinR-2000, Eastman Kodak Co.) and an amorphous-silicon flat-panel digital mammography system (Senographe 2000D, GE Medical Systems) based on information perception by human observers. The focus of the study was to utilize an effective means to estimate the contrast-detail characteristics of x-ray imaging systems at various threshold levels to evaluate system performance with reduced observer subjectivity. We obtained three images of a contrast-detail phantom (CDMAM, Nuclear Associates) with screen-film and three images with digital mammography under identical exposure conditions. The digital images were printed using dry film printer (DryView 8600, Eastman Kodak Co.) after being windowed/leveled appropriately by two experienced radiologists. Seven observers reviewed the images and 'proportion correct' detection data were computed for each observer. A psychophysical signal detection model that hypothesizes a continuous decision variable internal to the observer with Gaussian probability density functions was used to fit the experimental observer data. Projection data from the detection curves at 50%, 62.5%, and 75% threshold levels were used to generate contrast-detail diagrams. Digital mammography, on average, exhibited lower (better) threshold contrast-detail characteristics compared to screen-film mammography.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The SMART Practice of Scholarly Practice

The ProblemScholar-practitioners can be more successful than their less grounded peers; yet engaging in scholarly practice is not a guarantee of success in a business environment. The cases in this...
Effects Function Simulation of Residential Appliance Field Exposures

This paper demonstrates the application of effects function analysis to residential magnetic field exposure, focusing on appliance sources and mitigation choices. Residential field exposure time series were synthesized by using a sample of background household field measurements, a model of average daily appliance use, and a small sample of EMDEX data of field exposure from 12 household appliances. Four alternative effects functions were simulated by using the synthesized time series data for different exposure situations, such as high and low levels of appliance use, simple avoidance, and use of a set of hypothetical low field appliances. In particular, field exposure from the use of bedside clocks and electric blankets was examined. Results demonstrate that the choice of effects function is critical for the ranks of field sources and exposure reduction choices. For the effects function of average field strength with or without a threshold, exposure from background fields dominated exposure from all appliances except for bedside clocks and electric blankets. In the case of the field strength window effects function, the dominant field sources changed with the width of the window. For the effects function based on rapid field changes, appliance use was the major source of exposure. Because ofmore » the small sample size of the data set and other simplifications, specific results should be viewed as illustrative.« less
The Coevolving Web of Life (American Society of Naturalists Presidential Address)

Abstract: Coevolution—reciprocal evolutionary change in interacting species—is one of the central biological processes organizing the web of life, and most species are involved in one or more coevolved interactions. We have learned in recent years that coevolution is a highly dynamic process that continually reshapes interactions among species across ecosystems, creating geographic mosaics over timescales sometimes as short as thousands or even hundreds of years. If we take that as our starting point, what should we now be asking about the coevolutionary process? Here I suggest five major questions that we need to answer if we are to understand how coevolution shapes the web of life. How evolutionarily dynamic is specialization to other species, and what is the role of coevolutionary alternation in driving those dynamics? Does the geographic mosaic of coevolution shape adaptation in fundamentally different ways in different forms of interaction? How does the geographic mosaic of coevolution shape speciati...
Fusidienol: A novel inhibitor of Ras farnesyl-protein transferase from Fusidium griseum

Abstract Ras (p21) protein is frequently found mutated in human cancers and must be farnesylated by farnesyl protein-transferase (FPTase) to achieve cell-transforming activity. Our continued search for inhibitors of FPTase as potential cancer chemotherapeutics led to the isolation of fusidienol from extracts of the fungus Fusidium griseum . Fusidienol is a novel and potent oxygen-containing [7/6/6] tricyclic heterocycle.
WATER RELATIONS OF XERIC GRASSES IN THE FIELD: INTERACTIONS OF MYCORRHIZAS AND COMPETITION

SUMMARY The effects of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculum and competition from non-mycorrhizal annual plants were tested on Agropyron smithii Rydb. and Agropyron dasystachyum (Hook.) Scribn. growing in an inoculum-poor soil. Mycorrhizal A. smithii decreased stomatal resistance (rs) and increased leaf water potential compared to the non-inoculated plants, but only during the driest portion of the growing season. The presence of annuals caused increased rs of A. smithii, but only of non-inoculated plants. Mycorrhizal plants had the same rs with or without annuals, indicating that mycorrhizas may alleviate the detrimental effects of competition on rs of A. smithii. By contrast, neither inoculation nor annuals significantly affected water relations of A. dasystachyum. Mycorrhizas also did not increase N and P concentrations or percentage cover of either grass, but both had delayed phenology when mycorrhizal. This research was done during a wet year when the effects of mycorrhizas may be subtle. Long-term observations are necessary to determine the importance of mycorrhizas under field conditions.
Collisional dissociative ionization of TlBr by accelerated Xe and Kr atoms

Abstract Ionization processes in collisions of thallium bromide and aerodynamically accelerated xenon and krypton have been studied by the crossed-beam method. Absolute cross sections for positive ion production were measured. Mass spectrometric analysis revealed that the positively charged products consisted of Tl + , TlXe + (no TlKr + was observed) and Tl 2 Br + , whose relative yields varied with the relative energies of the collidants.
A further theoretical result for generalized ridge regression estimators

Abstract This paper derives a sufficient condition for the generalized ridge regression (GRR) estimator to be preferred to the ordinary least squares (OLS) estimator for all non-negative values of the biasing factors, when the performance of an estimator is measured by its mean squared error matrix. A test of this sufficient condition is outlined.
A Core Competency–based Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) Can Predict Future Resident Performance

Objectives: This study evaluated the ability of an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) administered in the first month of residency to predict future resident performance in the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) core competencies. Methods: Eighteen Postgraduate Year 1 (PGY-1) residents completed a five-station OSCE in the first month of postgraduate training. Performance was graded in each of the ACGME core competencies. At the end of 18 months of training, faculty evaluations of resident performance in the emergency department (ED) were used to calculate a cumulative clinical evaluation score for each core competency. The correlations between OSCE scores and clinical evaluation scores at 18 months were assessed on an overall level and in each core competency. Results: There was a statistically significant correlation between overall OSCE scores and overall clinical evaluation scores (R = 0.48, p < 0.05) and in the individual competencies of patient care (R = 0.49, p < 0.05), medical knowledge (R = 0.59, p < 0.05), and practice-based learning (R = 0.49, p < 0.05). No correlation was noted in the systems-based practice, interpersonal and communication skills, or professionalism competencies. Conclusions: An early-residency OSCE has the ability to predict future postgraduate performance on a global level and in specific core competencies. Used appropriately, such information can be a valuable tool for program directors in monitoring residents’ progress and providing more tailored guidance. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:S67–S71 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Photovoltaic Characterization of Trapping in Porous Silicon

We report the first observation of the lateral photovoltaic effect in porous silicon. Contacts placed on either side of a porous silicon region develop a voltage up to several millivolts if the sample is asymmetrically illuminated. If the light spot is closer to one contact, the voltage will have one polarity; if it is closer to the other contact, the polarity will be opposite. In the case of n-type, the contact nearest the light spot is positive; for p-type, the contact nearest the light spot is negative In the region between the contacts, the photovoltage varies almost linearly with the position of the light spot, over a distance 4.5 cm across. The origin of our lateral photoeffect may be explained by the trapping of photoexcited carriers by a pair of dangling bond centers in porous silicon. In the case of p-type, the photogenerated electrons are trapped by the dangling bond states while holes diffuse away in the substrate. The situation for n-type is opposite; holes are trapped by the dangling bond states while electrons diffuse away in the substrate. This differs from the conventional lateral photoeffect, which arises under the nonuniform illumination of a junction between two layers of differing conductivities. Hamamatsu sells silicon-based position-sensitive detectors with a resolution down to 0.1 μm. The possibility of using this lateral photoeffect to characterize these dangling bond states in porous silicon as well as several possible device applications will be discussed.
Combination of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Levels and Non-Invasive Hemodynamic Parameters in Diagnosing Congestive Heart Failure in the Emergency Department

This study aimed to assess whether the combination of a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level with various noninvasive hemodynamic parameters can help physicians more quickly and accurately diagnose congestive heart failure and determine the type of left ventricular dysfunction present in patients presenting to the emergency department with dyspnea. Subjects were 98 men (aged 64.57+/-1.23 years) that presented to the VA San Diego Healthcare System. Hemodynamic parameters were measured using impedance cardiography, and BNP levels were quantified using a rapid immunoassay. All patients with a BNP 100 pg/mL (601+/-55 pg/mL; n=61), a cardiac index of 2.6 L/min/m2 is 65% sensitive and 88% specific in determining systolic dysfunction. In patients with a BNP >100 pg/mL, a multivariate model consisting of noninvasive hemodynamic measurements was able to predict cardiac deaths, readmissions, and emergency department visits within 90 days with 83% accuracy. The authors conclude that, in patients presenting to an emergency department with dyspnea, the addition of impedance cardiography measurements to BNP level measurements will more effectively diagnose congestive heart failure and determine both the type of heart dysfunction and the severity of illness.
The Professional Identity of Counselor Educators

ABSTRACT A national survey of 70 counselor educators was conducted to examine the professional identity of counselor educators. Academic degrees, professional association membership, theoretical orientation, types of courses taught, scholarship, scope of service activities, career choice, and self-identification were among the factors explored relating to professional identity development among counselor educators. Demographic data such as the college or school in which counseling programs are housed and the percentage of faculty self-identified as counselors within counseling programs or departments was also explored. The results of the study and implications for the professional identity of the counseling field are discussed.
Geropsychiatric consultation for African-American and Caucasian patients

We assessed differences in the referral rates of African-American and Caucasian elderly for geropsychiatric consultation. Reasons for referral, assigned diagnoses, and interventions made were also compared. A retrospective chart review of psychiatric consultations was completed for patients aged 65 years and older for a 2-year period. Significantly more consultations were requested Caucasian elderly (6.2%) than for African-American elderly (3.8%). African-American elderly were referred for evaluation of psychosis significantly more often and for assessment of suicide potential significantly less often than Caucasians. Consultants diagnosed African-American elderly with psychotic disorders, specifically schizophrenia, and dementia significantly more often than Caucasians. Caucasian elderly were significantly more often diagnosed with mood disorders, especially depressive disorders. Interventions/recommendations made for Caucasian and African-American elderly did not differ for the most part. Recommendations for legal measures were suggested for African-American elderly more often than for Caucasians. Differences between Caucasian and African-American elderly were observed in consultation referral rates, reasons for referral, and psychiatric diagnoses made. The potential impact of cultural variables and the racial and age differences between hospital staff and patients may account for some of these findings. Further awareness of the needs of African-American elderly is required.
Evaluating Patients' Understanding of Printed Warfarin Medication Information.

Objective:Warfarin is a high-risk medication whose safe use may be greatly improved by patient education. This study evaluate evaluated patients’ understanding of warfarin instructions, medication ...
Some Engineering Design Considerations for a Thermonuclear Power Plant

The evaluation of the engineering problems of fusion reactors has just begun. Worldwide, it is estimated to be the part-time effort of fewer than fifty scientists and engineers. A few thoughts have been outlined here. The essence of the problem is still one of plasma physics; the demonstration of stable confinement of a thermonuclear plasma. Engineering models are, therefore, best guesses at present confinement schemes extrapolated to reactor conditions. Many of the technical problems are however, model-free and universally applicable. There must be some advanced state of preparation for construction of a reactor once scientific feasibility is proven. The success of this program means the satisfaction of global energy needs for the foreseeable future.
Corneal Deturgescence after Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty Evaluated by Visante Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography

Purpose To evaluate postoperative corneal deturgescence after Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) using the Visante anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) system (Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc, Dublin, California, USA). Design Retrospective case series. Methods We included 21 eyes (9 males and 12 females; mean age ± standard deviation, 76.3 ± 12 years). The Visante OCT system was used to determine the central and peripheral endothelial keratoplasty graft thickness and total central and peripheral corneal thickness. Results Central graft thickness decreased from the first day (243.3 ± 92 μm) to the last visit (147.8 ± 44 μm; P = .0001). The rate of central graft thinning slowed during the following intervals: during the first week (47 μm), at 1 week to 1 month (40 μm), and at 1 to 6 months (25 μm), with a mild increase at 6 to 9 months (5 μm). Peripheral graft thickness continued to decrease from postoperative day 1 (318.5 ± 99 μm) to the last visit (196.7 ± 50 μm; P = .0001). There was a decrease in total central corneal thickness from day 1 (903.8 ± 179 μm) to the last visit (671 ± 93 μm; P = .0001). All patients were imaged with the Visante OCT at the first 4 defined postoperative intervals; however, only 9 eyes were imaged at the last interval of 6 to 9 months. Conclusions After DSAEK, there is a greater thinning of the central graft compared with the peripheral graft. The central cornea thickness decreases and peripheral corneal thickness increases. Central corneal graft deturgescence stabilizes by 6 months after surgery.