cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pneumatic antishock garment inflation activates the human sympathetic nervous system by abdominal compression

New Findings • What is the central question of this study?What is the mechanism by which pneumatic antishock garments increase blood pressure? • What is the main finding and its importance?Direct recordings of sympathetic nerve activity revealed that pneumatic antishock garments activate a sympathetically mediated reflex increase in blood pressure by compressing the abdomen, but not the leg. This mechanism has never been shown previously. Pneumatic antishock garments (PASG) have been proposed to exert their blood pressure-raising effect mechanically, i.e. by increasing venous return and vascular resistance of the lower body. We tested whether, alternatively, PASG inflation activates the sympathetic nervous system. Five men and four women wore PASG while mean arterial pressure (MAP), muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), heart rate and stroke volume were measured. One leg bladder (LEG) and the abdominal bladder (ABD) of the trousers were inflated individually and in combination (ABD+LEG), at 60 or 90 mmHg for 3 min. By the end of 3 min of inflation, conditions that included the ABD region caused significant increases in MAP in a dose-dependent fashion (7 ± 2, 8 ± 3, 14 ± 4 and 13 ± 5 mmHg for ABD60, ABD+LEG60, ABD90 and ABD+LEG90, respectively, P < 0.05). Likewise, inflation that included ABD caused significant increases in total MSNA compared with control values [306 ± 70, 426 ± 98 and 247 ± 79 units for ABD60, ABD90 and ABD+LEG90, respectively, P < 0.05 (units = burst frequency × burst amplitude]. There were no changes in MAP or MSNA in the LEG-alone conditions. The ABD inflation also caused a significant decrease in stroke volume (−11 ± 3 and −10 ± 3 ml per beat in ABD90 and ABD+LEG90, respectively, P < 0.05) with no change in cardiac output. Neither cardiopulmonary receptor deactivation nor mechanical effects can account for a slowly developing rise in both sympathetic activity and blood pressure during ABD inflation. Rather, these data provide direct evidence that PASG inflation activates the sympathetic nervous system secondarily to abdominal, but not leg, compression.
An update on incidence of FAS: FAS is not an equal opportunity birth defect.

The incidence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is now estimated at 0.97 cases per 1,000 live births in the general obstetric population and 4.3% among "heavy" drinkers. The general incidence is more than 20 times higher in the United States (1.95 per 1,000) compared to Europe and other countries (0.08 per 1,000). Within the United States, the incidence at sites characterized by low socioeconomic status, and African American or Native American background are about 10 times higher (2.29 cases per 1,000) compared to sites with a predominant middle/upper SES and Caucasian background (0.26 per 1,000). Based on racial background, the number of pregnant women in the U.S. giving birth to FAS children is 2,043 per year; if based on socioeconomic status, the number is slightly higher 2,366. Although race and SES are confounded in the U.S. studies, an examination of U.S. and European studies suggests that the major factor associated with FAS is low SES rather than racial background.
The relationship between citation errors and library anxiety: An empirical study of doctoral students in education

The present study investigated whether levels of library anxiety predict simultaneously the citation error rate and quality of reference lists in doctoral dissertation proposals among 93 doctoral students in education. This study was unique for at least two reasons. First, it was one of the first studies to examine bibliographic citation inaccuracies in doctoral research proposals. Second, the current investigation was one of the first to investigate the psychological characteristics of doctoral students who commit such errors. A canonical correlation analysis revealed a multivariate relationship between levels of library anxiety and both the citation error rate and quality of reference lists. This finding suggests that level of library anxiety plays an important role in students' ability to construct accurate reference lists. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Comments on “Observations of a Mesoscale Ducted Gravity Wave”

Abstract Recently, a mathematical theory has been developed that proves that there are two main components of the solution of the forced dynamical system that describes a mesoscale storm driven by cooling and heating processes. The component that contains most of the energy of the solution (and is therefore called the dominant component) satisfies a simple nonlinear system devoid of gravity and sound waves. The residual component of the solution satisfies a forced gravity wave equation and essentially does not interact with the dominant component. The mathematical theory also provides information about the amplitude, wavelength, and period of the gravity waves. In the paper entitled “Comments on ‘Use of ducting theory in an observed case of gravity waves,”’ Dr. F. M. Ralph has claimed that the new gravity wave theory is not consistent with profiler observations of vertical velocity in his earlier paper entitled “Observations of a mesoscale ducted gravity wave.” Here it is shown that the new theory is comp...
Antiprogestin-receptor complexes: differences in the interaction of the antiprogestin RU38,486 and the progestin R5020 with the progesterone receptor of human breast cancer cells.

In order to understand the molecular basis for antiprogestin action, we have compared the interaction of the antiprogestin [3H]RU38,486 (RU486) and the progestin [3H]R5020 with the progesterone receptor (PR). In both MCF-7 and T47D human breast cancer cells, we have observed marked differences in the sedimentation properties of the PR on high salt sucrose gradients: while the R5020-receptor complexes sediment at approximately 4 S (4.4±0.1 S), the RU486-receptor sediments as a prominent 6 S species as well as a 4 S species. This binding is abolished by excess unlabelled R5020, RU486 or progesterone, but is unaffected by excess unlabelled hydrocortisone or dexamethasone, indicating that both the 4 S and 6 S species represent the PR and not glucocorticoid receptor. Although the relative distribution of 4 S and 6 S forms is not altered by treatment with DNAse or RNAse, exposure to 10 mM thioglycerol or to 3 M urea results in conversion of the 6 S to the 4 S form, suggesting that disulfide bonds and hydrophobic interactions are important in maintaining the integrity of the 6 S form. These findings suggest that the 6 S antiprogestin complex is formed as a result of the interaction of PR units with each other or with a different protein. This change in receptor association state may be an important aspect of the antiprogestin activity of RU486.
Relational networks: An extension of sociometric concepts

Abstract Conventional dyadic sociometric techniques are shown to be inadequate for dealing with substantively important complex relationships. An extension of the concept of relationship is proposed to encompass these more complex structures, and some elementary formal properties of the resulting networks (known as bipartite graphs) are examined. Preliminary applications are made to problems concerning partitions of a population induced by a structure and boundaries of observability in organizations.
Borehole seismic‐source radiation in layered isotropic and anisotropic media: Real data analysis

The source and receiver boreholes in crosshole seismology are usually considered unimportant except for their effects on body wave radiation and reception patterns. We present counter examples by analyzing a real crosswell data set from Buckhorn, Illinois, using computer simulations. The algorithm used is a combination of the boundary element method (for the source borehole) and the borehole coupling theory (for the receiver borehole) in transversely isotropic media. We find that most of the strong events in the data are inexplicable unless both boreholes are included in the modeling. The importance of the boreholes stems from the local geology which consists of highly contrasted sedimentary rocks. At a high-contrast interface, wave conversion is no longer a negligible secondary effect. In fact, converted waves can be stronger than the primaries.
Addiction genetics and pleiotropic effects of common haplotypes that make polygenic contributions to vulnerability to substance dependence.

Abundant evidence from family, adoption, and twin studies point to large genetic contributions to individual differences in vulnerability to develop dependence on one or more addictive substances. Twin data suggest that most of this genetic vulnerability is shared by individuals who are dependent on a variety of addictive substances. Molecular genetic studies, especially genomewide and candidate gene association studies, have elucidated common haplotypes in dozens of genes that appear to make polygenic contributions to vulnerability to developing dependence. Most genes that harbor currently identified addiction-associated haplotypes are expressed in the brain. Haplotypes in many of the same genes are identified in genomewide association studies that compare allele frequencies in substance dependent vs. control individuals from European, African, and Asian racial/ethnic backgrounds. Many of these addiction-associated haplotypes display pleiotropic influences on a variety of related brain-based phenotypes t...
Molecular modeling studies on the ribosome

In the absence of a high resolution crystal structure for the ribosome, numerous research groups are carrying out low resolution structural studies using neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, fluorescence energy transfer, chemical crosslinking, chemical footprinting studies, and other methods. We have developed a computer-based refinement method for incorporating these data into low resolution three-dimensional models. The method is based on a molecular mechanics approach, with proteins represented by spherical particles of suitable diameter and the ribosomal RNA represented by a string of spherical pseudoatoms, one for each nucleotide. Experimental data are used to derive constraints that are introduced through a special force field (potential function). Models are refined by simulated annealing. Since every term in the force field is quadratic, any model that satisfies all of the input data has an energy of zero; higher energies indicate residual unsatisfied constraints. The residual energy provides a quantitative statement of model quality and can be used to identify conflicts in the experimental data. The method has been applied to the refinement of a low resolution model for the 30S subunit (the small subunit) of the E. coli ribosome. Since this is a very underdetermined system, the range of acceptable models has also been explored. This provides an estimate of the resolution of the structure, which is about 15 A overall, with the uncertainty in position of individual nucleotides ranging from about 5 A to 50 A.
Factors bearing on the formation of craters on the Moon

The craters and other surface features of the Moon have long attracted the attention of astronomers and geologists and many hypotheses have been suggested to account for their origin. Although a host of detailed observations have been made, we do not yet know definitely how any one of these features was formed, nor do we know definitely what the materials are that we see exposed on the Moon. The chief difficulty that confronts the geologist in his study of lunar physiography is the visualization of the conditions that obtain there; namely, lack of running water and of an atmosphere, and gravity only one-sixth that at the Earth's surface. Terrestrial features are so profoundly modified and altered by the action of water and of air that our whole geological experience is built up around these factors. The first task of the geologist who wishes to study the physiography of the Moon is to ascertain the physical environment of its surface materials and then to gather experience in the effects, produced by such conditions. Erosion, weathering, and cementation in the ordinary terrestrial sense are inactive forces on the Moon's surface. Sedimentary rocks are apparently absent; they do not, as on the Earth, constitute the history-book of the Moon. In the absence of an atmosphere and of circulating water, geological history of the kind we know on the Earth cannot be recorded.
Ensuring Successful Outcomes for Children and Youth From Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds

A dramatic increase in cultural heterogeneity is occurring in the U.S. population. Accordingly, educators are faced with the challenge of ensuring positive educational outcomes for all students, despite the lack of empirical understanding of how to effectively educate culturally and linguistically diverse learners. In this article, we discuss several issues that may be linked to improved learner outcomes for children and youth from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Accuracy of the pharmacogenetic dosing table in the warfarin label in predicting initial therapeutic warfarin doses in a large, racially diverse cohort.

Study Objectives. To compare the accuracy of the pharmacogenetic dosing table included in the warfarin label with two empiric dosing strategies in predicting initial therapeutic warfarin doses, and to identify factors that influence the accuracy of the table. Design. Retrospective cohort study. Data Source. International Warfarin Pharmacogenetic Consortium database. Patients. A total of 3727 racially diverse patients receiving stable doses of warfarin who had international normalized ratios (INRs) between 2.0 and 3.0. Measurements and Main Results. Mean absolute error (MAE) and mean percentage of patients whose predicted doses were within 20% of their actual therapeutic doses (percentage within 20%) were compared between the pharmacogenetic table and two empiric dosing strategies. In the first strategy, warfarin 5 mg/day was used, and in the second strategy, dosing varied depending on the patient's race. The mean percentage of patients whose actual doses were within the ranges of the table (percentage within range) was also calculated. Warfarin dosing using the table resulted in a lower MAE (10.9 mg/wk) and a higher percentage within 20% (41.5%) than both empiric dosing strategies (MAE 12.3–12.6 mg/wk, percentage within 20% of 31.8–32.7%). In addition, using the table showed similar MAE, mean percentage within 20%, and mean percentage within range across the different racial groups. Dosing according to the table had higher mean percentage within 20% (56.4% vs 15.4%) and higher mean percentage within range (53.3% vs 19.2%) in the intermediate-dose group (> 21 but ≤ 49 mg/wk) than in the low-dose group (≤ 21 mg/wk). Being female and taking amiodarone were identified as factors that significantly increased the likelihood that the patient's predicted dose would be outside of 20% of their actual therapeutic dose or outside the range of the pharmacogenetic table. Conclusion. Using the pharmacogenetic dosing table included in the warfarin label resulted in higher accuracy of dosing prediction than two empiric dosing strategies. The table had similar accuracy across racial groups and better accuracy in patients receiving an intermediate dose of warfarin. When the table is used for warfarin dosing, women and patients receiving amiodarone may require more intensive monitoring of their warfarin therapy.
Effect of the presence of polymer in miniemulsion droplets on the kinetics of polymerization

Solution of polystyrene in styrene were dispersed in an aqueous gel phase comprising sodium lauryl sulfate, cetyl alcohol, and water using an emulsification process known to produce monomer droplet sizes inthe submicron size range (referred to as miniemulsion droplets). The shelf-life stabilities of these miniemulsions were studied to determine their relative droplet sizes, and the emulsions were concommitantly polymerized in an isothermal batch reaction calorimeter. The polymerization kinetics and final particle sizes produced were compared with miniemulsion and conventional emulsion polymerizations prepared using equivalent recipes without the addition of polystyrene. The results indicate that polymerization of miniemulsions prepared from polymer solutions produce significantly different kinetics than both miniemulsion and conventional emulsion polymerizations. In general, a small amount of polymer greatly increases the rate of polymerization and the final number of particles produced in the polymerization to the extent where even conventional polymerizations carried out above the critical micelle concentration of the surfactant polymerize more slowly. The results are explained by considering the system to be comprised of small, stable pre-formed monomer-swollen polymer particles which are able to efficiently capture aqueous phase radicals. This enables the system to produce a large final number of particles, similar to the initial number of pre-formed polymer particles, as opposed to miniemulsions and micelles in which only a relatively small fraction of the initial number of species (droplets or micelles) become polymer particles. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Predicting local population distributions around a central shelter based on a predation risk-growth trade-off

Abstract Animals face trade-offs between predation risk and foraging success depending on their location in the landscape; for example, individuals that remain near a common shelter may be safe from predation but incur stronger competition for resources. Despite a long tradition of theoretical exploration of the relationships among foraging success, conspecific competition, predation risk, and population distribution in a heterogeneous environment, the scenario we describe here has not been explored theoretically. We construct a model of habitat use rules to predict the distribution of a local population (prey sharing a common shelter and foraging across surrounding habitats). Our model describes realized habitat quality as a ratio of density- and location-dependent mortality to density-dependent growth. We explore how the prey distribution around a shelter is expected to change as the parameters governing the strength of density dependence, landscape characteristics, and local abundance vary. Within the range of parameters where prey spend some time away from shelter but remain site-attached, the prey density decreases away from shelter. As the distance at which prey react to predators increases, the population range generally increases. At intermediate reaction distances, however, increases in the reaction distance lead to decreases in the maximum foraging distance because of increased evenness in the population distribution. As total abundance increases, the population range increases, average population density increases, and realized quality decreases. The magnitude of these changes differs in, for example, ‘high-’ and ‘low-visibility’ landscapes where prey can detect predators at different distances.
A vocabulary of abnormal behaviors in restrictively reared chimpanzees.

The purpose of this paper is to establish a vocabulary for the systematic documentation of abnormal behavior in restrictively reared chimpanzees. Such a vocabulary facilitates communication regarding the range of behavior patterns indicative of psychopathology. The behavior of restrictively reared chimpanzees was observed and descriptive terminology is developed to aid in documentation of the range of abnormal behavior observed in restrictively reared chimpanzees. Such documentation is the first step in monitoring and evaluating a rehabilitation program.
The role of temperature and swab materials in the recovery of herpes simplex virus from lesions.

swab was placed in 2 ml of Eagle's minimal essential medium containing a 1%07 mixture of penicillin, streptomycin, amphotericin B, and 207% bovine serum. The specimens were left at room temperature for 15-30 min; two 0.2-ml samples from each specimen were then inoculated into tubes containing human embryonic lung fibroblasts. The remaining medium was divided; half of the medium was refrigerated at 4 C and half was frozen at - 20 C for 48 hr. During the first part of the study, the swabs were retained in the specimens; during the second half of the study, the swabs were removed from the specimens and discarded before storage. After 48 hr the refrigerated and frozen specimens were brought to room temperature, and two 0.2-ml samples from each specimen were inoculated onto human embryonic lung fibroblasts. All of the cultures were incubated at 35-37 C and examined daily for 10 days for CPE. The positive cultures were harvested and typed according to the method of Stewart and Herrmann [1]. The X2 test was used for statistical comparison. * P< 0.001. t P< 0.01. $ P< 0.01. S P< 0.01. II P< 0.01. Summary Swab specimens of lesions from patients attending a sexually transmitted disease clinic that were thought to be caused by HSV were cultured to determine whether recovery of HSV was influenced by the use of cotton swabs vs. calcium alginate swabs and by storage of the specimens at refrigerator temperature (4 C) vs. freezer temperature (- 20 C). Adverse effects by both the use of calcium alginate swabs and the storage of specimens at freezing temperatures have been reported for laboratory-prepared stock cultures of HSV [2, 3] but not for clinical specimens. Fifty-one (62.1%) of the 82 patients who were cultured were positive for HSV; 46 isolates were HSV type 2 and five were HSV type 1. There was no difference in the recovery of HSV from cotton or calcium alginate swabs if the samples were inoculated immediately. However, if the samples were stored, the percentage of
Frequent Periodic Leg Movement During Sleep Is an Unrecognized Risk Factor for Progression of Atrial Fibrillation

Sleep apnea has been recognized as a factor predisposing to atrial fibrillation recurrence and progression. The effect of other sleep-disturbing conditions on atrial fibrillation progression is not known. We sought to determine whether frequent periodic leg movement during sleep is a risk factor for progression of atrial fibrillation. In this retrospective study, patients with atrial fibrillation and a clinical suspicion of restless legs syndrome who were referred for polysomnography were divided into two groups based on severity of periodic leg movement during sleep: frequent (periodic movement index >35/h) and infrequent (≤35/h). Progression of atrial fibrillation to persistent or permanent forms between the two groups was compared using Wilcoxon rank-sum test, chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis. Of 373 patients with atrial fibrillation (77% paroxysmal, 23% persistent), 108 (29%) progressed to persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation during follow-up (median, 33 months; interquartile range, 16-50). Compared to patients with infrequent periodic leg movement during sleep (n=168), patients with frequent periodic leg movement during sleep (n=205) had a higher rate of atrial fibrillation progression (23% vs. 34%; p=0.01). Patients with frequent periodic leg movement during sleep were older and predominantly male; however, there were no significant differences at baseline in clinical factors that promote atrial fibrillation progression between both groups. On multivariate analysis, independent predictors of atrial fibrillation progression were persistent atrial fibrillation at baseline, female gender, hypertension and frequent periodic leg movement during sleep. In patients with frequent periodic leg movement during sleep, dopaminergic therapy for control of leg movements in patients with restless legs syndrome reduced risk of atrial fibrillation progression. Frequent leg movement during sleep in patients with restless legs syndrome is associated with progression of atrial fibrillation to persistent and permanent forms.
Cognitive Performance Assessment for Stress and Endurance

The U. S. Army Research Laboratory's stress research and cognitive readiness program focuses on developing methods that reliably measure stress and assess the effects of stress on performance and cognitive processing. The evaluation of changes in cognitive processing related to individual stress levels enhances the effectiveness of this area of research. This paper describes a Cognitive Performance Assessment for Stress and Endurance (CPASE), a battery of tests representing a range of skills that are sensitive indicators of human performance in stressful environments: memory recall, logical reasoning, working memory, and spatial manipulation. These tasks were selected through a literature search for functions that are sensitive to the effects of stress and could be generalized to higher level cognitive functioning. The focus was to develop a non intrusive battery that was amenable to testing a large group of participants in a field setting in a short amount of time. This battery has been successfully used...
Are C1 chondrites chemically fractionated? a trace element study

Six C1 chondrite samples and a C2 xenolith from the Plainview H5 chondrite were analyzed by radiochemical neutron activation for a large variety of elements, including rare earths. The sample processing is described, including the irradiation, chemical procedure, rare earths separation, counting techniques, radiochemical purity check, and chemical yields. The results of consistency checks on a number of elements are discussed. Abundances for siderophiles, volatiles, and rare earths are presented and discussed. Tests are presented for fractionation of rare earths and other refractories, compositional uniformity of C1's, and interelement correlations. There is no conclusive evidence for nebular fractionation affecting C1's. Three fractionation-prone rare earths have essentially the same relative abundances in C1's and all other chondrite classes, and hence are apparently not fractionated in C1's.
The 2.2-kb promoter of cartilage-derived retinoic acid-sensitive protein controls gene expression in cartilage and embryonic mammary buds of transgenic mice.

Abstract Cartilage-derived retinoic acid-sensitive protein (CD-RAP) is a secreted protein primarily expressed in chondrocytes. Pathologically, CD-RAP is detected in melanoma, chondrosarcoma and breast cancer. As an approach to define the transcriptional regulatory domains responsible for induction of chondrocyte activity in vivo, we generated transgenic mice harboring various fragments of the mouse CD-RAP promoter linked to the Escherichia coli β-galactosidase gene. Analysis of the transgene expression pattern by X-gal staining indicates that 2251 bp of the CD-RAP 5′-flanking sequence generates β-galactosidase activity in all cartilage in embryos and adult animals. In addition, we also detected transient X-gal staining in mammary gland primordium from day 11.5 to 15.5 of gestation. Histological examination revealed that the transgene is located in the chondrocytes of cartilage and the epithelial cells of mammary buds. The cartilage transgene expression pattern is consistent with that of endogenous CD-RAP gene expression. The presence of β-galactosidase in the mammary buds led us to the demonstration of a unique pattern of transient endogenous expression of CD-RAP in the mammary bud. The finding of transient CD-RAP expression in mammary buds suggests that it may play a role in the organogenesis of mammary glands.
Plasma Membrane Localization of Gαz Requires Two Signals

Three covalent attachments anchor heterotrimeric G proteins to cellular membranes: the alpha subunits are myristoylated and/or palmitoylated, whereas the gamma chain is prenylated. Despite the essential role of these modifications in membrane attachment, it is not clear how they cooperate to specify G protein localization at the plasma membrane, where the G protein relays signals from cell surface receptors to intracellular effector molecules. To explore this question, we studied the effects of mutations that prevent myristoylation and/or palmitoylation of an epitope-labeled alpha subunit, alpha z. Wild-type alpha z (alpha z-WT) localizes specifically at the plasma membrane. A mutant that incorporates only myristate is mistargeted to intracellular membranes, in addition to the plasma membrane, but transduces hormonal signals as well as does alpha z-WT. Removal of the myristoylation site produced a mutant alpha z that is located in the cytosol, is not efficiently palmitoylated, and does not relay the hormonal signal. Coexpression of beta gamma with this myristoylation defective mutant transfers it to the plasma membrane, promotes its palmitoylation, and enables it to transmit hormonal signals. Pulse-chase experiments show that the palmitate attached to this myristoylation-defective mutant turns over much more rapidly than does palmitate on alpha z-WT, and that the rate of turnover is further accelerated by receptor activation. In contrast, receptor activation does not increase the slow rate of palmitate turnover on alpha z-WT. Together these results suggest that myristate and beta gamma promote stable association with membranes not only by providing hydrophobicity, but also by stabilizing attachment of palmitate. Moreover, palmitoylation confers on alpha z specific localization at the plasma membrane.
A beam-current limiting device

Abstract A method for limiting beam currents in an accelerator to maximum values as low as several μA is described. This method relies on limiting the power supplied to a superconducting RF cavity in which the beam is accelerated. This technique may be useful in meeting health safety requirements at a facility such as LAMPF where low-intensity and high-intensity experimental areas are fed simultaneously with the same primary accelerator.
Selective septohippocampal- but not forebrain amygdalar- cholinergic dysfunction in diencephalic amnesia

Abstract A rodent model of diencephalic amnesia, pyrithiamine-induced thiamine deficiency (PTD), was used to investigate diencephalic–limbic interactions. In-vivo acetylcholine (ACh) efflux, a marker of memory-related activation, was measured in the hippocampus and the amygdala of PTD-treated and pair-fed (PF) control rats while they were tested on a spontaneous alternation task. During behavioral testing, all animals displayed increases in ACh efflux in both the hippocampus and amygdala. However, during spontaneous alternation testing ACh efflux in the hippocampus and the alternation scores were higher in PF rats relative to PTD-treated rats. In contrast, ACh efflux in the amygdala was not suppressed in PTD treated rats, relative to PF rats, prior to or during behavioral testing. In addition, unbiased stereological estimates of the number of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) immunopositive neurons in the medial septal/diagonal band (MS/DB) and nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) also reveal a selective cholinergic dysfunction: In PTD-treated rats a significant loss of ChAT-immunopositive cells was found only in the MS/DB, but not in the NBM. Significantly, these results demonstrate that thiamine deficiency causes selective cholinergic dysfunction in the septo-hippocampal pathway.
Jazzing up JVMs with off-line profile data: does it pay?

In Java Virtual Machines employing dynamic compilation, there exists a tradeoff between compilation overhead and execution time. The compilation efforts are directed selectively on program hotspots so that gains in performance due to compiled code can overcome compilation cost. Using online profile incurs runtime-profiling overhead. Using only offline profile data might result in selecting cold methods for compilation when offline profile does not mirror current application behavior. Hence we propose a hybrid scheme that incorporates both online and offline profile to identify selective compilation candidates. We also discuss the significance of selective compilation ordering especially in applications which exhibit phase changes with respect to the method invocations it makes. This results in the hotspots of the program also changing as the application executes. Hence it is important for the selective compilation scheme to be highly responsive to phase changes and target the compilation efforts on the new hotspots, as they appear. We propose a temporal event graph for capturing this phase changing behavior of the application (in terms of the method calls it makes) and use this information in making better selective compilation decisions.
Analyticity properties and power law estimates of functions in percolation theory

We consider percolation on the sites of a graphG, e.g., a regulard-dimensional lattice. All sites ofG are occupied (vacant) with probabilityp (respectively,q=1−p), independently of each other.W denotes the cluster of occupied sites containing a fixed site (which will usually be taken to be the origin) andW the cardinality ofW. The percolation probabilityθ is the probability that #W=∞, i.e.,θ(p)=Pp{# W=∞}. Some critical values ofp,pH andpT, are defined, respectively, as the smallest value ofp for whichθ(p)> 0, and for which the expectation of #W is infinite. Formally,pH=inf {p∶θ(p)>0} andpT=inf{p∶ Ep{#W}=∞}. We show for fairly general graphsGthat ifp <pT, thenPP{#W ⩾ n} decreases exponentially inn. For the special casesG =G0= the simple quadratic lattice andG1= the graph which corresponds to bond-percolation on ℤ2, we obtain upper and lower bounds forθ(p) of the formC¦p¦-PH¦α, and bounds forEp{#W} of the formC¦p−pH¦−α. We also investigate smoothness properties of Δ(p)=Ep{number of clusters per site} =Ep {(#W)−1; (#W) ⩾ 1}. This function was introduced by Sykes and Essam, who assumed that Δ(·) has exactly one singularity, namely, atp=pH. For the graphsG0 andG1, (i.e., site or bond percolation on ℤ2) we show that Δ(p) is analytic atp ≠ pH and has two continuous derivatives atp=pH. The emphasis is on rigorous proofs.
Extragalactic Stellar Astronomy

Despite their paucity, massive hot stars are real cosmic engines of fundamental importance in shaping our Universe, from its very early stages up to its current appearance. Understanding the physics of massive stars is then a key issue for many relevant astrophysical phenomena. Their spectra provide constraints required for stellar and galactic evolution calculations, such as mass-loss rates, degree of chemical evolution at different evolutionary stages, star formation history (through [α/Fe] ratios) and spatial distribution of different species. Probing the massive stellar population of nearby galaxies by means of quantitative spectroscopy allows us to unveil a wealth of information that will aid our current understanding of stellar and galaxy evolution. In addition, blue luminous stars can be used as standard candles for extragalactic distances up
Spectroscopic properties of chlorophylla in the water-soluble peridinin-chlorophylla-protein complexes (PCP) from the symbiotic dinoflagellate Symbiodinium microadriaticum

Summary The spectroscopic characteristics of chlorophyll (Chl) a in two water-soluble peridinin-chlorophyll a -protein complexes (PCP), isolated from the symbiotic dinoflagellate Symbiodinium microadriaticum , were analyzed in the 600 to 750 nm wavelength range. Gaussian deconvolution analyses of the absorption spectra of monomeric and dimeric PCP recorded at 160 K demonstrate that the Chl a Qy envelope of both complexes contains two spectral forms. Similar results were obtained from the Gaussian deconvolution of the fluorescence emission spectra taken at 119 K. Analyses of the calculated fluorescence emission of the different spectral forms at room temperature shows close agreement with the results obtained from Gaussian deconvolution analyses of the fluorescence emission spectra. The evidence indicates that the emission spectra of the intact complexes are the result of independent emission of each spectral form. Analyses of the contribution of each spectral form to the primary maximum of the emission spectra as a function of temperature is also supportive of the existence of two spectral forms of Chl a .
Nonfatal occupational falls among U.S. health care workers, 2008-2010

The purpose of this study was to describe antecedents and characteristics of nonfatal fall-related injuries among health care workers in the United States. A special request was made for the Bureau of Labor Statistics to obtain nonfatal fall-related injury data from 2008 to 2010. Overall, workers in the nursing-related profession had the highest percentages of workplace fall-related injuries. Ninety-one percent of these injured workers were female, and more than 50% were between the ages of 45 and 64 years. More than 25% of fall injuries resulted in 31 or more workdays being lost. This study indicated that the most affected body parts were the lower extremities, with most injuries resulting in sprains, strains, and tears. Accordingly, this 3-year study revealed that a high number of fall injuries occurred at night for health care workers compared to other workers in the U.S. private sector.
Macroeconomic determinants of migration: the case of Germany, 1964-1988.

Macroeconomic determinants of immigration are analyzed with pooled cross-country and time series data on net immigration to Germany from European countries during 1964-88. It presents a combined focus on short- and long-run patterns of net immigration. Time series studies show that the flow of migration is affected by the business cycle in both sending and receiving countries whereas cross-country analyses emphasize the importance of income levels and standards of living. In this paper cross section and time series data were pooled in order to maximize the identifying power of the sample and simultaneously estimating both low and high frequency phenomena. The findings demonstrated that both high and low frequency determinants have been important. Long run trends are determined by the degree and speed of per capita income convergence between the sending and receiving countries while year-to-year changes in net immigration flows are dominated by cyclical economic conditions.
The Theory of Internal Conversion

The theory of the internal conversion process is presented on a firm quantum-mechanical foundation and in a form most convenient for calculations. The question of the correct gauge for the radiation potentials and the effect of the finite size of the nucleus on these potentials are considered.
Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in the Elderly

Hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, and obesity remain the major modifiable risk factors for most of the coronary disease afflicting the elderly. The relative risk associated with these established risk factors diminishes with advancing age, but this is offset by a greater absolute and attributable risk. Diabetes is increasing alarmingly in prevalence and operates more powerfully in women, eliminating their coronary disease resistance (relative to men). Interest in this entity now focuses on the insulin resistance syndrome promoted by abdominal obesity that has become so common in the elderly. The isolated systolic hypertension and large pulse pressure that predominate in the elderly is now recognized as a coronary disease hazard. Dyslipidemia, characterized by a high total to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, is the most predictive lipid profile for coronary disease in the elderly. High triglycerides, accompanied by low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol usually signifies insulin resistance and more atherogenic, small, dense low-density lipoprotein. Left ventricular hypertrophy is an ominous harbinger of coronary disease. Fibrinogen and the leukocyte count are correlated coronary disease risk factors that may indicate unstable lesions. Novel risk factors, such as hemostatic factors, homocysteine, lipoprotein(a), C-reactive protein, and hyperinsulinemia, are worthy of attention, but the efficacy of correcting them in the elderly has not yet been demonstrated. Nor has the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy in women. All the coronary risk factors tend to cluster, and the hazard posed by each is greatly influenced by the burden of coexisting risk factors. High-risk elderly candidates for coronary disease can be efficiently targeted for treatment by global risk assessment, using only the major established risk factors. The distinction between primary and secondary prevention in the elderly is less clear than in the middle-aged because they often have advanced presymptomatic vascular pathology that imposes a coronary event rate comparable to that of the middle-aged who have already sustained a clinical event. Declines in coronary mortality rates in the United States have included the elderly, justifying optimism about the efficacy of preventive measures. Most of the elderly have sufficient remaining life expectancy to warrant vigorous preventive management. Trials of risk factor modification in the elderly indicate that decades of exposure to modifiable risk factors can be countered by measures implemented late in life.
Detection of Legionella with polymerase chain reaction and gene probe methods

Methods were developed for the detection of Legionella in environmental water sources, based upon the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gene probes. All species of Legionella, including all 15 serogroups of L. pneumophila tested, were detected by PCR amplification of a 104 bp DNA sequence that codes for a region of 5S rRNA followed by radiolabelled oligoprobe hybridization to an internal region of the amplified DNA. Strains of L. pneumophila (all serogroups) were specifically detected based upon amplification of a portion of the coding region of the macrophage infectivity potentiator (mip) gene. Pseudomonas spp. that exhibit antigenic cross-reactivity in serological detection methods did not produce positive signals in the PCR-gene probe method using Southern blot analyses. Single cell, single gene Legionella detection was achieved with the PCR-gene probe methods.
Electronic stopping power of ions in solids

Abstract A correction to a universal electronic stopping power for ions in solids is presented. For the stopping of some ion in solids the correction can be significant.
SU-FF-T-230: Anomaly Characteristics Of Tissue Heterogeneity Curve From Three Commercially Available Tissue Characterization CT Phantoms

Purpose: Uncorrected treatment plans for tissue heterogeneities can produce errors exceeding 30% of the prescribed dose. Tissue heterogeneity correction is made by acquiring a Hounsfield Units (HU) value versus electron density relationship and applied to imaged-based treatment planning systems. This relationship is determined by scanning a tissue characterization CT phantom containing plugs of different tissues (electron densities). This study investigates the quality and provides up-to-date data on three commercially available tissue characterization CT phantoms (model RMI465, RMI467, and CIRS062) scanned using a modern helical CT-Simulator scanner. Method and Materials: These CT phantoms were scanned on the GE helical lightspeed plus CT-Simulator scanner. The phantom model RMI465 has 20 plugs while phantoms model RMI467 and CIRS062 have 17 plugs. The electron density ranges from 0.19 to 1.69. The scanning parameters for the abdomen (120 kV) with set slice thickness of 5 mm were used. Once the axial images of the CT phantom were acquired, a region of interest was drawn at the central area of each plug and the mean HU value and its standard deviation were determined. Results: The plotted HU values versus electron densities show scattered data points. One of the CT phantoms exhibiting inconsistent data may be due to chemical composition breakdown was excluded. Overall, the data points were scattered and hence direct input of measured HU values versus electron densities into the treatment planning systems for interpolation should be avoided. Instead, the data entered into the treatment planning systems should be based on fitted relationships. The data can be fitted with two linear equations. Conclusion: The HU values versus electron densities derived from commercial CT phantoms should be fitted before entering into treatment planning systems. The relationship consists of two linear equations with a point of inflection at a relative electron density of 1.0.
REINFORCEMENT FACTORS IN FIBERS FROM BLOCK COPOLYAMIDES AND POLYAMIDE BLENDS

The modulus of a fiber can be increased by plying with it a higher-modulus fiber. In this case, the modulus of the combination is characterized by a springs-in-parallel model, and the modulus of the composite is a linear function of the per cent of the second fiber in the composite. Another method of obtaining reinforcement is to melt-blend a higher-modulus polymer with the substrate polymer. With polyamides, this leads to a certain degree of amide interchange and block copolymer formation which depends on the compatibility of the polymers as well as on the usual kinetic factors. If the dispersion of the higher-modulus polymer is such that aggregate size is relatively large (e.g., ≥500 A) and if the adhesion between the two polymers is good, a springs-in-parallel-type reinforcement is the best which can be obtained. In melt-blend polyamides, a “nonclassical” phenomenon in reinforcement has been noted when the diameters of the dispersed aggregates are ≤500 A and when there are a relatively high number of hydrogen bonding sites on both polymer components. In this case, it appears that moduli appreciably higher than predicted from a springs-in-parallel model are obtained as well as higher than expected Tg values. A mechanism is proposed to account for this “nonclassical” behavior along with data to support it. Another type of anomaly is observed when the components of the blend are isomorphous. In this case, the reinforcement is considerably less than expected.
Widespread Contribution of Gdf7 Lineage to Cerebellar Cell Types and Implications for Hedgehog-Driven Medulloblastoma Formation

The roof plate is a specialized embryonic midline tissue of the central nervous system that functions as a signaling center regulating dorsal neural patterning. In the developing hindbrain, roof plate cells express Gdf7 and previous genetic fate mapping studies showed that these cells contribute mostly to non-neural choroid plexus epithelium. We demonstrate here that constitutive activation of the Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway in the Gdf7 lineage invariably leads to medulloblastoma. Lineage tracing analysis reveals that Gdf7-lineage cells not only are a source of choroid plexus epithelial cells, but are also present in the cerebellar rhombic lip and contribute to a subset of cerebellar granule neuron precursors, the presumed cell-of-origin for Sonic hedgehog-driven medulloblastoma. We further show that Gdf7-lineage cells also contribute to multiple neuronal and glial cell types in the cerebellum, including glutamatergic granule neurons, unipolar brush cells, Purkinje neurons, GABAergic interneurons, Bergmann glial cells, and white matter astrocytes. These findings establish hindbrain roof plate as a novel source of diverse neural cell types in the cerebellum that is also susceptible to oncogenic transformation by deregulated Sonic hedgehog signaling.
Micro analysis of organic fluorine compounds

Abstract Microanalysis of organic compounds containing fluorine has become a subject of importance because of ( a ) the large number and varieties of fluoro derivatives currently being synthesized, and ( b ) the effect of fluorine on the determination of the other elements present in the sample. This paper surveys the literature on the qualitative and quantitative microanalysis of organic fluorine compounds. Some microprocedures developed by the author are presented.