cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Voltage-sensitive calcium channels in a human small-cell lung cancer cell line.

Pancrazio, J.J., Oie, H.K. & Kim, Y.I. 1992. Voltage-sensitive calcium channels in a human small-cell lung cancer cell line. Acta Physiol Scand144, 463468. Received 1 October 1991, accepted 24 October 1991. ISSN 0001–6772. Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Neurology, University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, and the National Cancer Institute, Navy Medical Oncology Branch, Naval Hospital Bethesda, USA. Utilizing the whole-cell patch-clamp method we assessed the Ca2+ current (Ica) in well-established cell lines from human small-cell carcinoma (SCC) of the lung, NCI-H209 and NCI-H187. The Ca2+ current was readily observed in H209 tumour cells (90% of the cells tested), whereas H187 tumour cells only occasionally expressed Caz+ channels (26% of the cells tested). H209 Ca2+ current was evoked by potentials greater than -30 mV and exhibited partial inactivation over the duration of a 40 ms command potential. This inward current was unchanged by alteration of the holding potential from - 80 to - 40 mV and the activation phase of the Ca2+ current was best fitted by Hodgkin-Huxley m(t)2 kinetics. H209 Ca2+ current was reduced over 80% by verapamil (100 μM), whereas w-conotoxin (5 μM) appeared to be without effect. In contrast, H209 Ca2+ current was rapidly abolished by nifedipine (10 μm), strongly suggesting the presence of L-type Ca2+ channels. Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels may be important to the secretion of ectopic hormones and the etiology and pathogenesis of Lambert-Eaton syndrome, an autoimmune disorder of the motor nerve terminal in which autoantibodies directed against voltage-gated Ca2+ channels are produced.
Multi-Objective Stochastic Search for Sampling Local Minima in the Protein Energy Surface

We present an evolutionary stochastic search algorithm to obtain a discrete representation of the protein energy surface in terms of an ensemble of conformations representing local minima. This objective is of primary importance in protein structure modeling, whether the goal is to obtain a broad view of potentially different structural states thermodynamically available to a protein system or to predict a single representative structure of a unique functional native state. In this paper, we focus on the latter setting, and show how approaches from evolutionary computation for effective stochastic search and multi-objective analysis can be combined to result in protein conformational search algorithms with high exploration capability. From a broad computational perspective, the contributions of this paper are on how to balance global and local search of some high-dimensional search space and how to guide the search in the presence of a noisy, inaccurate scoring function. From an application point of view, the contributions are demonstrated in the domain of template-free protein structure prediction on the primary subtask of sampling diverse low-energy decoy conformations of an amino-acid sequence. Comparison with the approach used for decoy sampling in the popular Rosetta protocol on 20 diverse protein sequences shows that the evolutionary algorithm proposed in this paper is able to access lower-energy regions with similar or better proximity to the known native structure.
The Design and Experimental Validation of an Ultrafast Shape Memory Alloy ResetTable (SMART) Latch

Latches are essential machine elements utilized by all sectors (military, automotive, consumer, manufacturing, etc.) with a growing need for active capabilities such as automatic release and reset, which require actuation. Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuation is an attractive alternative technology to conventional actuation (electrical, hydraulic, etc.) because SMA, particularly in the wire form, is simple, inexpensive, lightweight, and compact. This paper introduces a fundamental latch technology, referred to as the T-latch, which is driven by an ultrafast SMA wire actuator that employs a novel spool-packaged architecture to produce the necessary rotary release motion within a compact footprint. The T-latch technology can engage passively, maintain a strong structural connection in multiple degrees of freedom with zero power consumption, actively release within a very short timeframe (<20 ms, utilizing the SMA spooled actuator), and then repeat operation with automatic reset. The generic architecture of the T-latch and governing operational behavioral models discussed within this paper provide the background for synthesizing basic active latches across a broad range of applications. To illustrate the utility and general operation of the T-latch, a proof of concept prototype was designed, built, and experimentally characterized regarding the basic functions of engagement, retention, release, and reset for a common case study of automotive panel lockdown. Based on the successful demonstration and model validation presented in this study, the T-latch demonstrates its promise as an attractive alternative technology to conventional technologies with the potential to enable simple, low-cost, lightweight, and compact active latches across a broad range of industrial applications.
WE‐C‐303A‐06: Design of a PET Scanner for in Situ Dose Verification in Proton Beam Therapy

Introduction — During proton therapy,positron emitting radio‐isotopes are produced along the trace where incident protonbeam interacts with human tissue. The isotope activity profile is related to the proton dose distribution. Such isotope activities can be measured and imaged using a PET scanner. Therefore an accurate and sensitive PETimage of the isotope activities can be used for verification of proton dose. Our work is to design an efficient PET system for in situproton dose measurement in order to measure the activities of short‐lived isotopes.Method — A non‐rotating partial PET ring configuration is advantageous for such measurements as the decay of short‐lived isotopes can be measured almost immediately after the stop of proton irradiation. The PET design is optimized by varying 1)crystal cross‐section that is related to spatial resolution; 2) crystal types that affect intrinsic sensitivity and Time of Flight information; 3) angular coverage of the PET ring that is related to system sensitivity and reconstructed image quality. This study uses EGS4 based Monte Carlo simulation software that has been developed at Penn for PET scanner design studies. Geant4 software is used to produce the protonisotope activity. This isotope distribution is parameterized and used as the source distribution in EGS4. It is placed in a cylindrical water phantom initiating from phantom surface inward to mimic the patient treatment configuration. Iterative image reconstruction, together with data corrections for scatter, and attenuation, are incorporated to achieve high‐quality images and quantitative data. Results — The reconstructedisotope source from PETimages agrees well with the source activity for several design configurations. The distal falloff region of the isotope trace can be clearly identified. Summary — The design of PET system can be optimized so that the configuration yields an accurate and efficient reconstruction of the isotope activities.
The impact of private utilization management on psychiatric care: a review of the literature.

Psychiatric care in the United States is increasingly practiced subject to some form of utilization management (UM) by third parties. This paper reviews recent studies of UM in the privately insured mental health sector, and finds some limited evidence that UM reduces utilization and costs to the payer. Less is known about UM’s effect on mental health outcomes, or its financial impacts on patients, providers, and society. Implications concerning the regulation of UM are discussed, and suggestions are made for future research on the impact of UM.
Estimating western pine beetle-caused tree mortality for evaluating an attractive pheromone treatment

Sequential aerial photography was used to detect ponderosa pine trees killed by successive generations of the western pine beetle (WPB),Dendroctonus brevicomis Lec., over a three-year period during a study to evaluate the effectiveness of attractive pheromones for the suppression and survey of WPB. The total number of WPB-killed trees were estimated for each generation, using probability-proportional-to-size sampling procedures. Infested trees at the beginning of the suppression treatment totaled 283. Attacks by three successive WPB generations in 1970 killed 90,83, and 91 trees, respectively. The first generation in 1971 killed 47 trees and the two subsequent generations combined killed a total of 49 trees. During the suppression treatment, tree mortality was concentrated into the suppression plots in comparison to the check plots and the surrounding area. By 1972, tree mortality distribution returned to its original pattern, but at one-tenth the original level, as shown by maps. Recommendations suggest ways to improve the use of aerial photography for studies of WPB-caused tree mortality and population dynamics.
Resolution of Surgically Induced Right Bundle-Branch Block

In a retrospective study, the serial electrocardiograms of all patients with surgically induced right bundle-branch block (RBBB) were reviewed. None of these patients had had RBBB prior to operation. Seven patients who had RBBB from 6 to 16 days after operation showed resolution in ECGs done 3 to 8 months later. Two patients are reported, with documentation by vectorcardiogram, in whom RBBB resolved by 3 and 12 years after operation. The origin of transient forms of RBBB may be different from the long-standing form. If RBBB of long duration is due to operative injury to the proximal right bundle, Purkinje fiber network, or distal branch or branches of the right bundle, or to combinations of these tracts, one may speculate about the possibility of regeneration of the right ventricular conduction system. Since no data are available concerning the long-term prognosis of RBBB and since a progressive conduction disturbance can occur, the resolution of RBBB after many years might carry a better prognosis than its persistence.
Sudakov Effects and Initial State Interactions in the {Drell-Yan} Process

Abstract We show how a perturbative nonfactorization recently found in μ -pair production by Bodwin, Brodsky and Lepage is likely to be suppressed by Sudakov corrections.
Compartmentalized neurotransmitter and amino acid synthesis in vivo studied by high field MRS

Glutamatergic action occurs by the glial uptake of extracellular glutamate and conversion into glutamine, which is exported to neurons. Recently, a 1 : 1 stoichiometry between total oxidative brain glucose consumption, CMRglc(ox), and glutamatergic action was reported. This relationship required, that all of the glucose phosphorylated in glia was exported to neurons in the form of lactate. We recently reaffirmed in the awake human brain that the majority of ATP produced in glia is oxidative (Gruetter et al. 2001). In that study we also observed that the exchange rate between TCA cycle intermediates and amino acids, Vx, is on the order of the flux through pyruvate dehydrogenase, VPDH, which implied that this exchange rate is influenced by the malate–aspartate shuttle (MAS). Recently we have extended this line of investigation to the intact rat brain. TCA cycle flux and glutamate/glutamine metabolism was assessed in vivo at two different anesthetic levels (pentobarbital and α-chloralose anesthesia) using 13C NMR in conjunction with 13C glucose infusions. Several metabolic rates were extracted from the rate of label incorporation using a mathematical model (Gruetter et al. 2001). The apparent rate of glutamatergic neurotransmission, VNT, was low, even though glucose metabolism was still substantial, suggesting that the stoichiometry between glucose metabolism and glutamatergic neurotransmission is far from 1 : 1. The rate of pyruvate carboxylation was ∼25% of glutamine synthase flux. Vx was found to be equal to VPDH, indicating that Vx is coupled to CMRglc(ox), consistent with MAS being the major mechanism that facilitates label exchange across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Reference Gruetter et al. (2001) Am. J. Physiol.281, 100E.
The energy distribution of thermal electrons emitted from silicon

Abstract A Maxwellian energy distribution is exhibited by the thermal electrons that are emitted from a (111) silicon surface.
Migration and Resettlement Experiences of Dominican and Korean Families

The migration experiences of Dominican and Korean immigrants are analyzed through a conceptual tool applicable to immigrants from different nations, global regions, and cultures. Experiences in the country of origin and destination are highlighted. Discussion includes reason for migration and premigration experiences and resettlement experiences relating to marital and intergenerational conflict, employment, language, culture, belief systems, help-seeking behavior, and reception in the United States. Implications for services are presented.
Heat transfer-solidification kinetics modeling of solidification of castings

A close examination of the recent developments in the field of computer simulation of solidification process reveals that a combination of both macroscopic and microscopic models is necessary in order to accurately describe the solidification of castings. Currently available macroscopic models include models that describe heat transfer from metal to mold, fluid flow of liquid metal during mold filling, and stress field in the casting. At the microscopic level, the models should include more intricate issues such as solidification kinetics and fluid flow in the mushy zone. Although significant progress has been accomplished over the years in each field, the task of including all of these models into a comprehensive package is far from being complete. This paper describes the state of the art on coupling the macroscopic heat transfer (HT) and microscopic solidification kinetics (SK) models and introduces thelatent heat method as a more accurate method for solving the heat source term in the heat conduction equation. A new method for calculation of fraction of solid evolved during solidification based on computer-aided cooling curve analysis (CA-CCA), as well as a method based on nucleation and growth kinetics laws, is discussed. A new nucleation model based on the concept of instantaneous nucleation, which is used to describe equiaxed eutectic solidification of commercial alloys, has been introduced. It is demonstrated that the instantaneous nucleation model agrees well with the experimental results in terms of cooling curves and of evolution of the fraction of solid during solidification. Validation results are also shown for SK models that are based on CA-CCA coupled with HT models for eutectic Al-Si and gray cast iron alloys.
Radiation tolerance in polymeric dielectrics by small molecule doping, Part II: Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters

The doping of Mylar® film (composed of semicrystalline poly(ethylene terephthalate)) with small molecule electron traps results in a high-quality dielectric film with excellent radiation tolerance. Fluorenones with electron-withdrawing substituents, doped from ethylene glycol, are excellent candidates to provide this radiation tolerance. Utilizing theories for diffusion and partitioning, this paper extracts kinetic and thermodynamic information from the doping process. Diffusion is significantly retarded, and partitioning significantly enhanced, upon the addition of polar substituents to the dopant molecule; dopant size has a minor impact. Diffusivity corrections due to tortuous paths around the crystallites are accounted for. Additionally, it was found that the solubility parameters, in combination with estimations for the local interaction volumes, provide an excellent method to predict trends in the equilibrium doping behavior via the χ parameter and hydrogen bonding-modified Flory–Huggins theory. Based on this method, estimations are given for the number of hydrogen bonds between ethylene glycol and dopant molecules.
Major maxillomandibular malrelations and temporomandibular joint pain-dysfunction

Abstract A retrospective questionnaire survey of 102 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery for maxillomandibular disharmonies assessed the incidence of TMJ pain-dysfunction in both pretreatment and posttreatment phases. While retrospective questionnaire studies have obvious limitations, the following conclusions deserve consideration. 1.The incidence of TMJ pain-dysfunction symptoms found in this patient population appears to be higher than the incidence of those symptoms reported in previous epidemiologic studies of general populations which involved subjective symptoms alone. 2.Maxillomandibular disharmonies may be an important etiologic factor in the development of TMJ pain-dysfunction. Surgical correction of the disharmony in a significant percent of patients with maxillomandibular disharmonies and concomitant TMJ pain-dysfunction may alleviate or improve the TMJ pain-dysfunction symptoms. 3.There is a possibility that patients may develop TMJ pain-dysfunction symptoms after orthognathic surgery.
Schistosoma mansoni: simplified method for the production of schistosomules.

Abstract Schistosoma mansoni cercariae were subjected to a simple shearing stress by repeated passage through a 22 gauge needle. This physical stress resulted in the separation of cercarial bodies and tails. This action, in combination with subsequent in vitro cultivation, induced the cercaria-schistosomule transformation. The resulting schistosomules showed a complete loss of preacetabular and postacetabular gland material, they were serum and saline adapted, and lost their ability to participate in the Cercarien-Hullen Reaktion by 48 hr of in vitro cultivation. Morphologic studies, performed both at the light and electron microscopic levels, indicated that these organisms satisfied the previously published descriptions and definitions of postpenetration schistosomules. These schistosomules were easily maintained in vitro for up to 14 days.
Putting the world in the world wide web: the globalisation of the internet

Without question, the first decade of the internet as a mass communications platform belonged to the USA. US universities, businesses and users dominated the online landscape to the point that English became the language of choice of the world wide web. However, as internet technology and access diffuses to more countries, will US dominance of the internet continue? The authors argue that one tipping point has already occurred the majority of users on the internet today are non-native English speakers. The next tipping point, not too far away, is when non-native English speakers conduct the majority of e-commerce. The paper discusses internet usage trends, including language, diffusion models and the challenges facing businesses figuring out when and how to effectively compete in the trillion dollar e-commerce marketplace. This paper concludes with research opportunities.
Detailed Pathologic Characteristics of the Primary Colorectal Tumor Independently Predict Outcome after Hepatectomy for Metastases

Outcome after hepatic resection for colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM) is heterogeneous and accurate predictors of survival are lacking. This study analyzes the prognostic relevance of pathologic details of the primary colorectal tumor in patients undergoing hepatic resection for CRLM. Retrospective review of a prospective database identified patients who underwent resection for CRLM. Clinicopathological variables were investigated and their association with outcome was analyzed. From 1997–2007, 1,004 patients underwent hepatic resection for CRLM. The median follow-up was 59 months with a 5-year survival of 47 %. Univariate analysis identified nine factors associated with poor survival; three of these related to the primary tumor: lymphovascular invasion (LVI, p < 0.0001), perineural invasion (p = 0.005), and degree of regional lymph node involvement (N0 vs. N1 vs. N2, p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis identified seven factors associated with poor survival, two of which related to the primary tumor: LVI (hazard ratio (HR) 1.3, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.64, p = 0.01) and degree of regional lymph node involvement [N1 (HR 1.3, 95 % CI 1.04–1.69, p = 0.02) vs. N2 (HR 1.7, 95 % CI 1.27–2.21, p < 0.0005)]. A significant decrease in survival along the spectrum of patients ranging from LVI negative/N0 to LVI positive/N2 was present. Patients who were LVI-positive/N2 had a median survival of 40 months compared with 74 months for patients who were LVI-negative/NO (p < 0.0001). Histopathologic details of the primary colorectal tumor, particularly LVI and the detailed assessment of the degree of lymph node involvement, are strong predictors of survival. Future biomarker studies should consider exploring factors related to the primary colorectal tumor.
Endothelins and NADPH oxidases in the cardiovascular system.

SUMMARY 1 The endothelin (ET) system and NADPH oxidase play important roles in the regulation of cardiovascular function, as well as in the pathogenesis of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. 2 Endothelins activate NADPH oxidases and thereby increase superoxide production, resulting in oxidative stress and cardiovascular dysfunction. Thus, NADPH oxidases may mediate the role of endothelins in some cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mediating ET-induced vasoconstriction and cardiovascular disease remains under debate, as evidenced by conflicting reports from different research teams. Conversely, activation of NADPH oxidase can stimulate ET secretion via ROS generation, which further enhances the cardiovascular effects of NADPH oxidase. However, little is known about how ROS activate the endothelin system. It seems that the relationship between ET-1 and ROS may vary with cardiovascular disorders. 3 Endothelins activate NADPH oxidase via the ET receptor–proline-rich tyrosine kinase-2 (Pyk2)–Rac1 pathway. Rac1 is an important regulator of NADPH oxidase. There is ample evidence supporting direct stimulation by Rac1 of NADPH oxidase activity. In addition, Rac1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy is mediated by the generation of ROS.
Diagnostic Imaging of Higher Brain Dysfunction in Patients With Adult Moyamoya Disease Using Statistical Imaging Analysis for [123I]Iomazenil Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography

[123I]iomazenil (IMZ) is a specific radioligand for the central benzodiazepine (BZ) receptor that may be useful as a marker of cortical neuron loss after cerebral ischemia using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). This study used statistical imaging analysis for IMZ-SPECT to investigate the relationship between higher brain dysfunction and cortical neuron loss in the medial frontal lobes, to establish a confirmatory diagnosis of higher brain dysfunction in patients with adult moyamoya disease. IMZ-SPECT was estimated by three-dimensional stereotactic surface projections (3D-SSP). Cortical neuron loss was analyzed using the stereotactic extraction estimation (SEE) method (level 3: gyrus level) for 3D-SSP Z-score maps (Z-score >2). Extent of pixels with significant reduction of BZ receptor density within the target gyri (i.e. bilateral medial frontal gyri [MFGs] and anterior cingulate gyri [ACGs]) was calculated. In 6 patients with higher brain dysfunction, significant cortical neuron loss was observed in the bilateral MFGs in 4 patients, unilateral MFG in 1 patient, and bilateral ACGs in 2 patients. In 12 patients without higher brain dysfunction, no significant cortical neuron loss was observed in the bilateral MFGs or ACGs, and mild loss was observed in the bilateral MFGs in 2 patients, unilateral MFG in 4 patients, and unilateral ACG in 2 patients. Long-standing mild hemodynamic ischemia in the anterior circulation of patients with adult moyamoya disease could lead to incomplete brain infarction within the medial frontal lobes. Statistical imaging analysis using 3D-SSP and SEE methods for IMZ-SPECT could demonstrate significant cortical neuron loss in the bilateral frontal medial cortices involving MFG and/or ACG which correlate with higher brain dysfunction in patients with adult moyamoya disease.
Spatial analysis of species richness of shrews (Soricomorpha: Soricidae) in North America north of Mexico

We used geographic ranges of North American shrews and environmental data to better understand spatial distribution of species richness in the Soricidae. Richness was examined as a function of latitude and longitude and was compared with climatic variables at random points (≥90 km apart). Latitudinal trend in richness was parabolic with a maximum near 48°N, consistent with the general hypothesis that diversity is limited by energy to the north and by moisture to the south. Precipitation, snowfall, and July heating degree days were positively related to shrew richness. Richness of North American Soricidae was high in areas where topographic relief allowed for a variety of forested habitats and precipitation was high, such as the Southern Appalachians and Pacific Northwest. This broad, geographic study supports the idea that environmental moisture importantly limits distributions of shrews, which has been
Digital teaching files in diagnostic imaging

An architecture for digital teaching of radiology targets the next generation of network based education in diagnostic imaging. We developed applications of this system in UCSF hospitals (San Francisco, USA). The networked digital teaching file for medical imaging presented here builds on the availability of existing clinical information infrastructure in hospitals, such as PACS and RIS, and the recent advances in open systems Internet technology. Such a digital teaching file possesses enormous potential to change the practice and landscape of medical imaging education. Countries throughout the world share the goal of improving health care productivity and quality. They must invest not only in clinical services, but also in effective training of a new generation of imaging specialists. A networked digital teaching file provides a cost effective tool for attaining this goal.
A closer look into DNase I hypersensitivity

DNase I hypersensitivity (DHS) combined with next generation sequencing (DNase-seq) is an efficient way of observing, in a single experiment, the genome-wide chromatin effects associated with the binding of multiple transcription factors. Using quantitative contrasts of DHS before and after estrogen and androgen stimulation in breast and prostate cancer cell lines, we have shown that differential DHS can accurately predict hormone induced transcription factor binding. Despite its effectiveness, the DHS assay can vary significantly depending on the experimental parameters. To increase the robustness of this assay, we have systematically evaluated two major parameters, digestion level and fragment size. We found that while there is a broad range of suitable digestion level, over-digestion dramatically decreases the efficiency of detecting DHS regions. More interestingly, we found that different fragment sizes capture distinct chromatin elements, and thus represent different chromatin structures. We were able to classify different combinations of estrogen receptor coregulators that resulted in different local chromatin structures.
The Effects of Organizational Restructure on Employee Satisfaction

In an effort to better understand the multidimensional nature of satisfaction, it is examined in the context of organizational restructuring. This context allows the test of a conceptual model that...
Embedded-atom potential for B2-NiAl

database that includes both experimental properties of B2-NiAl and a large set of structural energies generated by ab initio calculations. Additional ab initio data, not included in the fitting database, are used to test the potential. The fitting database samples a large area of configuration space in order to enhance the transferability of the obtained potential. The potential proposed in this work can be used effectively in atomistic simulations of plastic deformation, fracture, and especially atomic disorder and diffusion. It is designed to be particularly reliable in high-temperature simulations of B2-NiAl using molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo methods.
Cytochrome b5 Reductase Encoded by CBR1 Is Essential for a Functional Male Gametophyte in Arabidopsis

In all eukaryotes, NADH:cytochrome b5 reductase provides electrons, via cytochrome b5, for a range of biochemical reactions in cellular metabolism, including for fatty acid desaturation in the endoplasmic reticulum. Studies in mammals, yeast, and in vitro plant systems have shown that cytochrome b5 can, at least in some circumstances, also accept electrons from NADPH:cytochrome P450 reductase, potentially allowing for redundancy in reductase function. Here, we report characterization of three T-DNA insertional mutants of the gene encoding cytochrome b5 reductase in Arabidopsis thaliana, CBR1. The progeny of plants heterozygous for the cbr1-2 allele segregated 6% homozygous mutants, while cbr1-3 and cbr1-4 heterozygotes segregated 1:1 heterozygous:wild type, indicating a gametophyte defect. Homozygous cbr1-2 seeds were deformed and required Suc for successful germination and seedling establishment. Vegetative growth of cbr1-2 plants was relatively normal, and they produced abundant flowers, but very few seeds. The pollen produced in cbr1-2 anthers was viable, but when germinated on cbr1-2 or wild-type stigmas, most of the resulting pollen tubes did not extend into the transmitting tract, resulting in a very low frequency of fertilization. These results indicate that cytochrome b5 reductase is not essential during vegetative growth but is required for correct pollen function and seed maturation.
Influences of light on activity of the small mammals,Peromyscus spp.,Tamias striatus, andMustela rixosa

Die Aktivitat des Backenhornchens (Tamias striatus) und des Wiesels (Mustela rixosa) wurde im Laufrad bei kunstlicher Dammerung und abruptem Tag-Nacht-Wechsel untersucht. Sowohl die Geschwindigkeit als auch die gesamte Laufzeit war bei diesen Tieren genau wie bei nachtaktiven Mausen (GattungPeromyscus) von der Beleuchtungsstarke abhangig. Die Bedeutung dieser Befunde fur das zirkadische Gesetz und die Evolution von Tages- und Nachtaktivitat wird diskutiert.
Motor Proficiency Predicts Cognitive Ability in Four-Year-Olds.

Research has shown links between motor proficiency and cognition in school-age children, however, few have explored earlier ages. We aimed to determine the association between motor proficiency and cognitive ability in four-year-olds. Motor and cognitive skills were examined in 32 (15 males, 17 females) four-year-olds (±5.59 months) using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2) (Fine Manual Control [FMC], Manual Coordination [MC], Body Coordination [BC], and Strength & Agility [SA]) and the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (KBIT-2) (Verbal, Nonverbal, and IQ). Correlation analysis revealed significance between BC and Verbal (.45) and IQ (.51), including MC and IQ (.55). Total Motor Proficiency displayed significance to Verbal (.49), Nonverbal (.40), and IQ (.58). Through regression analysis, MC predicted Verbal (32%) and IQ (31%), while Total Motor Proficiency predicted Verbal (24%), Nonverbal (16%), and IQ (34%). Motor proficiency appears to be associated with cognition, thus emphasizing...
Potential for Pharmacology of Ryanadine Receptor/Calcium Release Channelsa

ABSTRACT: Calcium release channels, known also as ryanodine receptors (RyRs), play an important role in Ca2+ signaling in muscle and nonmuscle cells by releasing Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Mammalian tissues express three different RyR isoforms comprising four 560-kDa (RyR polypeptide) and four 12-kDa (FK506 binding protein) subunits. The large protein complexes conduct monovalent and divalent cations and are capable of multiple interactions with other molecules. The latter include small diffusible endogenous effector molecules including Ca2+, Mg2+, adenine nucleotides, sufhydryl modifying reagents (glutathione, NO, and NO adducts) and lipid intermediates, and proteins such as protein kinases and phosphatases, calmodulin, immunophilins (FK506 binding proteins), and in skeletal muscle the dihydropyridine receptor. Because of their role in regulating intracellular Ca2+ levels and their multiple ligand interactions, RyRs constitute an important, potentially rich pharmacological target for controlling cellular functions. Exogenous effectors found to affect RyR function include ryanoids, toxins, xanthines, anthraquinones, phenol derivatives, adenosine and purinergic agonists and antagonists, NO donors, oxidizing reagents, dantrolene, local anesthetics, and polycationic reagents.
Multistandard geometry correction device for flat shadow mask high definition displays

A circuit which integrates a set of basic geometry correction waveforms together suitable for flat shadow mask displays has been implemented. A sinewave generation technique which does not use frequency selective components is used. Horizontal and vertical frequencies may be independently changed by modifying two external circuits. Since all output waveforms track these frequency changes while retaining their shapes and amplitudes, this implementation is suitable for multimode operation. The proposed technique does not have the drawbacks of current methods of sinewave generation, which involve frequency selective components and do not lend themselves to multifrequency operation. >
Using topographic slope distributions to infer seafloor patterns

The authors present a method for obtaining parameters for Sea Beam swath bathymetry which describe the characteristics of abyssal-hill topography. The basic quantity used in the analysis is the distribution of topographic slopes in a region. A convenient means for parameterizing these slopes is through unit vectors that are normal to small patches of the seafloor; the normal vectors are decomposed into azimuthal and dip components. It is found that the azimuthal distribution of the vectors provides a first-order indication of the dominant elongation directions in the topography, including multiple lineations when they are present. It is shown that the slope statistics are relatively independent of long-wavelength depth variations and are robust even if large anomalous features such as seamounts and fracture zones are included in the section of bathymetry analyzed. >
Competition Between Two Natural Enemies of Mediterranean Black Scale on Olive

One effect of competition between Scutellista cyanea Motsch. (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and Metaphycus lounsburyi (How.) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), natural enemies of Saissetia oleae (Oliv.) (Homoptera: Coccidae), was investigated. Proportion of hosts attacked by S. cyanea was significantly lower when this species occurred in combination with M. lounsburyi compared to when it occurred alone. Percent parasitization by M. lounsburyi was not significantly reduced when in combination with S. cyanea . Total proportion of hosts attacked was greater when both species were present compared to when either occurred alone. Relevance to biological control is discussed.
Mykil: a highly scalable key distribution protocol for large group multicast

This paper describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of Mykil, which is a new key distribution protocol for secure group multicast. Mykil has been designed to be scalable to large group sizes. It is based on a combination of group-based hierarchy and key-based hierarchy systems for group key management. Important advantages of Mykil include a fast rekeying operation for large group sizes, continuous availability of the key management service in a disconnected network environment, an ability to map the group structure to the underlying network infrastructure, robustness, support for user mobility, and support for smaller hand-held devices.
The importance of seeing the patient: test-enhanced learning with standardized patients and written tests improves clinical application of knowledge

Previous research has shown that repeated retrieval with written tests produces superior long-term retention compared to repeated study. However, the degree to which this increased retention transfers to clinical application has not been investigated. In addition, increased retention obtained through written testing has not been compared to other forms of testing, such as simulation testing with a standardized patient (SP). In our study, 41 medical students learned three clinical topics through three different learning activities: testing with SPs, testing using written tests, and studying a review sheet. Students were randomized in a counter-balanced fashion to engage in one learning activity per topic. They participated in four weekly testing/studying sessions to learn the material, engaging in the same activity for a given topic in each session. Six months after initial learning, they returned to take an SP test on each topic, followed by a written test on each topic 1 week later. On both forms of final testing, we found that learning through SP testing and written testing generally produced superior long-term retention compared to studying a review sheet. SP testing led to significantly better performance on the final SP test relative to written testing, but there was no significant difference between the two testing conditions on the final written test. Overall, our study shows that repeated retrieval practice with both SPs and written testing enhances long-term retention and transfer of knowledge to a simulated clinical application.
Immunological Properties of Peripheral Rat Lymphocyte Subpopulations Reacting Selectively with Guinea Pig Complement

Functional properties of peripheral rat T lymphocytes selectively affected by reaction with guinea pig serum (GPS) complement (C) were studied in this work. Cells sensitive to GPS cytotoxicity represented 2-7% of the nucleated cells in the spleen and 1-4% in lymph nodes. Responses of spleen and lymph node cells to Con A and PHA were markedly reduced following treatment with GPS whereas LPS-induced responses were not altered. GPS treatment also abrogated both the specific response of lymph node cells to a protein antigen and the production of leukocyte migration inhibitory factor by splenic cells. By contrast, GPS treatment significantly increased the reactivity of spleen and lymph node cells to alloantigens and enhanced the in vitro immune responsiveness of splenocytes to sheep erythrocytes. These results highlight the selective reactivity of guinea pig C with discrete subsets of immunoregulatory peripheral rat T lymphocytes.
Epidemiology and outcomes of acute kidney injury in critically ill surgical patients.

Abstract Purpose Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in critically ill patients but is poorly defined in surgical patients. We studied AKI in a representative cohort of critically ill surgical patients. Methods This was a retrospective 1-year cohort study of general surgical intensive care unit patients. Patients were identified from a prospective database, and clinical data were reviewed. Acute kidney injury events were defined by risk, injury, failure, loss, and end-stage renal classification criteria. Outcomes were inpatient and 1-year mortality, inpatient lengths of stay, and discharge renal function. Risk factors for AKI and outcomes were compared by univariate and multivariate analyses. Results Of 624 patients, 296 (47%) developed AKI. Forty-two percent of events were present upon admission, whereas 36% occurred postoperatively. Risk, injury, failure, loss, and end-stage renal classification distributions by grade were as follows: risk, 152 (51%); injury, 69 (23%); and failure, 75 (25%). Comorbid diabetes, emergency admission, major surgery, sepsis, and illness severity were independently associated with renal dysfunction. Patients with AKI had significantly worse outcomes, including increased inpatient and 1-year mortality. Acute kidney injury starting before admission was associated with worse renal dysfunction and greater renal morbidity than de novo inpatient events. Conclusions Acute kidney injury is common in critically ill surgical patients and is associated with increased mortality, persisting renal impairment and greater resource use.
High speed and high saturation power electroabsorption modulator for analog transmission

A high speed electroabsorption modulator (EAM) with high saturation optical power is desirable for analog fiber link applications, as the link gain increases quadratically with the optical power. EAMs with multiple-quantum-well (MQW) active layers are popular photonic applications. In this paper we also discuss the design and fabrication of the traveling wave (TW) electrode for the InGaAs QW EAM for high speed (>40 GHz) operation.
Hillocks on epitaxial GaAs grown from trimethylgallium and arsine

Abstract This letter reports on the formation of hillocks on epitaxial GaAs prepared by reacting trimethylgallium (TMG) and arsine. Layers were grown over a wide range of As : Ga ratios (4 : 1 to 15 : 1) in the gas phase. Hillocks were observed at growth rates in excess of 0.5 μm/min, irrespective of the gas composition.
Do Formal Religious Participation and Spiritual Perceptions Have Independent Linkages with Diverse Dimensions of Psychological Well-Being?∗:

Recognizing religiosity and spirituality as related-yet-distinct phenomena, and conceptualizing psychological well-being as a multi-dimensional construct, this study examines whether individuals’ frequency of formal religious participation and spiritual perceptions are independently associated with diverse dimensions of psychological well-being (negative affect, positive affect, purpose in life, positive relations with others, personal growth, self-acceptance, environmental mastery, and autonomy). Data came from 1,564 respondents in the 2005 National Survey of Midlife in the U.S. (MIDUS). Higher levels of spiritual perceptions were independently associated with better psychological well-being across all dimensions, and three of these salutary associations were stronger among women than men. Greater formal religious participation was independently associated only with more purpose in life and (among older adults) personal growth; greater formal religious participation was also associated with less autonomy. Overall, results suggest a different pattern of independent linkages between formal religious participation and spiritual perceptions across diverse dimensions of psychological well-being.
181: Sonographic assessment of suspected fetal anemia in the surviving twin after demise of the co-twin post-selective laser photocoagulation in twin-twin transfusion syndrome

TWIN AFTER DEMISE OF THE CO-TWIN POST-SELECTIVE LASER PHOTOCOAGULATION IN TWIN-TWIN TRANSFUSION SYNDROME RUBEN QUINTERO, EFTICHIA KONTOPOULOS, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida OBJECTIVE: Single intrauterine fetal demise (SIUFD), reported in up to 40% of patients after laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), has been associated with anemia of the surviving twin. Patent vascular anastomoses have been noted in up to 22% of these cases. The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of de novo suspected fetal anemia (SFAdn) relative to SIUFD in TTTS patients treated with selective laser photocoagulation of communicating vessels (SLPCV). STUDY DESIGN: Measurement of the peak systolic velocity of the middle cerebral artery (MCA-PSV) was attempted in the surviving twin 16-24 hours after SLPCV. Triplet pregnancies were excluded. SFAdn was defined as an MCA-PSV 1.5 MOMs without pre-existing SFA. SFAdn was analyzed relative to SIUFD of the co-twin. RESULTS: Post-operative MCA-PSV was successfully measured in 93.8% of donors and in 95.3% of recipients out of 193 TTTS patients. IUFD occurred in 10 donors (SIUFD-D) (5.1%), in 6 recipients (3.1%) (SIUFD-R) and in two cases (1%) in both twins. SFAdn was present in only 2/10 (20%) recipients after SIUFD-D and in 0/5 donors after SIUFD-R (MCA-PSV could not be obtained in one surviving donor 24 hrs after SIUFD-R). All 10 recipients with SIUFD-D survived with no additional treatment. The incidence of donor SFAdn was not different relative to SIUFD-R (0/5, 0% vs. 9/176, 5.1% respectively, p .6). The incidence of recipient SFAdn was not different relative to IUFD-D (2/10, 20% vs. 24/174, 13.8% respectively, p .58). Patent anastomoses were present in 3/143 (2.1%) of available placentas in dual survivors, and was not associated with SFAdn. CONCLUSION: In our series, SFAdn was not associated with SIUFD of the cotwin or with patent anastomoses in surviving twins after SLPCV. SFAdn had no apparent prognostic value. Further studies are necessary to assess the management implications of diagnosing SFAdn.
Lox2, a putative leech segment identity gene, is expressed in the same segmental domain in different stem cell lineages

The segmented tissues of the adult leech arise from a set of five, bilaterally paired embryonic stem cells via a stereotyped sequence of cell lineage. Individual segments exhibit unique patterns of cell differentiation, and previous studies have suggested that each stem cell lineage establishes at least some aspects of its own segmental specificity autonomously. In this paper, we describe a putative leech segment identity gene, Lox2, and examine its expression in the various stem cell lineages. Both sequence analysis and the segmental pattern of Lox2 expression suggest a specific homology to the fruitfly segment identity genes Ubx and abdA. In situ hybridization reveals a cellular accumulation of Lox2 RNA over a contiguous domain of 16 midbody segments (M6-M21), including postmitotic neurons, muscles and the differentiating genitalia. Lox2 transcripts were not detected at the stage when segment identities are first established, suggesting that Lox2 gene products may not be part of the initial specification process. Individual stem cell lineages were labeled by intracellular injection of fluorescent tracers, and single cell colocalization of lineage tracer and hybridization reaction product revealed expression of Lox2 RNA in the progeny of four different stem cells. The segmental domain of Lox2 RNA was very similar in the various stem cell lineages, despite the fact that some stem cells generate one founder cell/segment, whereas other stem cells generate two founder cells/segment.
A parallel iterative linear solver for solving irregular grid semiconductor device matrices

Presents the use of parallel processors for the solution of drift-diffusion semiconductor device equations using an irregular grid discretization. Preconditioning, partitioning and communication scheduling algorithms are developed to implement an efficient and robust iterative linear solver with preconditioning. The parallel program is executed on a 64-node CM-5 and is compared with PILS (a solver for ill-conditioned systems) running on a single processor. We observe an efficiency increase in obtaining parallel speed-ups as the problem size increases. We obtain 60% efficiency for CGS (a fast Lanczos-type solver for nonsymmetric linear systems) with no preconditioning for large problems. Using CGS with processor ILU preconditioning and magnitude threshold-fill-in preconditioning for the CM-5, and CGS with ILU for PILS, we attain 50% efficiency for the solution of large matrices. >
Compressional and Shear Wave Velocities in the Upper Crust

New reflectivity vs. grazing angle data at a number of thinly sedimented sites in the Pacific Ocean spanning 0.5 to 64 m.y. reveal that compressional and shear wave velocities, Vpand Vsof the uppermost crust increase with geologic age. Measurements between 40 and 64 m.y. reveal compressional and shear critical angles of 60 ± 3° and 9° ± 3° respectively. The corresponding compressional and shear speeds are 3090 ± 300 m/s and 1564 ± 15 m/s respectively. The relatively high estimated shear speeds are in sharp contrast to inferred shear speeds in 0.5 m.y. old crust, viz., 800 m/s, whereas the estimated compressional speeds in the older crust only slightly exceed Vpin young crust, which is about 2400 m/s.