cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variants in several genomic regions associated with asperger disorder

Asperger disorder (ASP) is one of the autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and is differentiated from autism largely on the absence of clinically significant cognitive and language delays. Analysis of a homogenous subset of families with ASP may help to address the corresponding effect of genetic heterogeneity on identifying ASD genetic risk factors. To examine the hypothesis that common variation is important in ASD, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 124 ASP families in a discovery data set and 110 ASP families in a validation data set. We prioritized the top 100 association results from both cohorts by employing a ranking strategy. Novel regions on 5q21.1 (P = 9.7 × 10(-7) ) and 15q22.1-q22.2 (P = 7.3 × 10(-6) ) were our most significant findings in the combined data set. Three chromosomal regions showing association, 3p14.2 (P = 3.6 × 10(-6) ), 3q25-26 (P = 6.0 × 10(-5) ) and 3p23 (P = 3.3 × 10(-4) ) overlapped linkage regions reported in Finnish ASP families, and eight association regions overlapped ASD linkage areas. Our findings suggest that ASP shares both ASD-related genetic risk factors, as well as has genetic risk factors unique to the ASP phenotype.
ISSies to experts: training students as technical support staff for departments

This paper explores the development of a paid training program for students working as technical support staff in academic and administrative departments at the University of Kansas, and highlights lessons learned throughout the process of developing and running the program.
Simultaneous buffer insertion and non-Hanan optimization for VLSI interconnect under a higher order AWE model

We present a simultaneous Buffer Insertion and Non-Hanan Optimization (BINO) algorithm to improve the performance of VLSI interconnect. This algorithm aims to address the realistic situation where both the interconnect resources and timing constraints are stringent and the wire topology is to be optimized using available spaces for buffer insertions after cell placement. These spaces are fixed relative to the changing routing tree during non-Hanan optimization. The objective here is to minimize weighted sum of wire and buffer cost subject to timing constraints. In BINO, buffer insertion and non-Hanan optimization are conducted simultaneously and iteratively in a greedy fashion till the improvements are exhausted. To assure the accuracy of timing evaluation, the fourth order AWE model is employed. Experimental results on both :18 m IC and MCM technology showed significant cost reductions.
Nerve Injury About the Shoulder in Athletes, Part 1 Suprascapular Nerve and Axillary Nerve

Nerve injuries about the shoulder in athletes are being recognized with increasing frequency. Prompt and correct diagnosis of these injuries is important to treat the patient and to understand the potential complications and natural history so as to appropriately counsel athletes. This 2-part article is a review and an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding some of the more common nerve injuries seen about the shoulder in athletes.
Did Teachers' Verbal Ability and Race Matter in the 1960s? "Coleman" Revisited.

Abstract Our paper reanalyzes data from the classic 1966 study Equality of Educational Opportunity , or Coleman Report . It addresses whether teacher characteristics, including verbal ability and race, influenced “synthetic gain scores” of students (mean test scores of upper grade students in a school minus mean test scores of lower grade students in a school), in the context of an econometric model that allows for the possibility that teacher characteristics in a school are endogenously determined. We find that verbal aptitude scores of teachers influenced synthetic grain scores for both black and white students. Verbal aptitude mattered as much for black teachers as it did for white teachers. Finally, holding teacher characteristics other than race constant, in some specifications black teachers were associated with higher gain scores for black high school students, but lower gain scores for white elementary and secondary students. Because these findings are for American schools in the mid-1960s, they do not directly apply to our contemporary experience. However, they do raise issues that should be addressed in discussions of hiring policies in American education.
Control of the nucleation of sickle cell hemoglobin polymers by free hematin

The polymerization of sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS) in the erythrocytes of sickle cell anemia patients is the primary event in the pathophysiology of this debilitating and deadly disease. Correspondingly, the majority of the current clinical treatments rely on delaying HbS polymerization. In search of pathways towards novel, more efficient treatment strategies, we explore the mechanism of nucleation of the HbS polymers. Previous work has shown that this nucleation follows a two-step mechanism, whereby the polymers nucleate inside dense liquid clusters suspended in the solution and occupying about 10−5 of the solution volume. We show that free hematin, which is spontaneously released by HbS due to its intrinsic instability to autoxidation, accelerates by ∼100× the rates of both nucleation and growth of the polymers and that its removal leads to complete arrest of HbS polymerization. Exploring the mechanism underlying these hematin effects, we show that hematin enhances the attraction between the hemoglobin molecules in the solution and this yields ∼100× higher volume of the dense liquid clusters in which nucleation occurs. These findings suggest that the nucleation of sickle cell hemoglobin polymers and the ensuing pathology can be suppressed by controlling the release and concentration of hematin in the red blood cells.
A Raman study of the systems Fe3−xCrxO4 and Fe2−xCrxO3

Abstract Raman spectra off the solid solutions Fe 3− x Cr x O 4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 2) and Fe 2− x Cr x O 3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 2) have been obtained. The fundamental, overtone, and combination vibrational bands observed are examined in terms of the variations occurring in the structures of the spinel-type (Fe 3− x Cr x O 4 ) or corundum-type (Fe 2− x Cr x O 3 ) solid solutions. For Fe 3− x Cr x O 4 , the Raman shift of the dominant feature at ∼675 cm −1 varies inversely with the volume of the unit cell. Shoulders on the ∼675 cm −1 peaks of Fe 1.4 Cr 1.6 O 4 and Fe 1.8 Cr 1.2 O 4 are believed to result from partial ordering of the cations in these materials. For Fe 2− x Cr x O 3 containing both iron and chromium, a fundamental vibration not observed in either α-Fe 2 O 3 or Cr 2 O 3 is the dominant Raman-scattering feature.
Folic acid treatment of a case of prolonged acute gingival hemorrhage.

Abstract A case of severe, chronic, unstimulated hemorrhage from the gingivae was controlled repeatedly and promptly by folic acid therapy, 10 mg. per day, after three days of the fourteen-day treatment period. The syndrome reappeared four times and was checked on each occasion by the same medication. The patient has now been free of symptoms for twelve months.
Sleep magnetic resonance imaging: dynamic characteristics of the airway during sleep in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Objectives/Hypothesis: To determine the dynamic characteristics of airway obstruction in subjects with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome. Study Design: A prospective cohort study of 20 OSA patients and 19 control subjects who underwent real-time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation between 2006 and 2008. Methods: The dynamics of the upper airway were visualized using real-time MRI (RTHawk system, Stanford, CA) during natural sleep. Respiratory and desaturation events were correlated to polysomnogram results, and anatomic site of obstruction was determined from the real-time MRI sequences. The relation between visually observed airway obstructions and autonomic system changes was quantified and reliability calculated (Cronbach α, Aabel 2009; Gigawiz, Ltd., Tulsa, OK). An automated analysis tool was developed to determine which respiratory event is associated with the longest duration and location of obstruction in the posterior airway space (Matlab 2009; Mathworks, Inc., Natick, MA). Results: Airway obstructions visualized on Sleep MRI during natural sleep included retropalatal, retroglossal, and combined obstruction. Respiratory events (mean rate of 31.9 per hour per subject) and desaturations (mean rate of 19.4 per hour per subject) temporally coincided with airway obstructive events. Intrarater reliability coefficients ranged from a low of 0.95 to a high of 1.0 for each rater. Inter-rater reliability coefficients ranged from a low of 0.85 to a high of 1.0. Conclusions: Sleep MRI is a novel and reliable approach to simultaneously evaluate airway obstructions and respiratory events in real time during natural sleep. Sleep MRI can define the dynamic characteristics of airway obstruction in both surgically naive and postsurgical OSA patients.
Equivariant Eilenberg-MacLane spaces and the equivariant Seifert-van Kampen and suspension theorems

Abstract Let G be a compact Lie group and V be a G -representation. We define V -dimensional equivariant Eilenberg-MacLane spaces and show that their elementary properties imply a Seifert-van Kampen theorem and a suspension theorem for the V th homotopy groups of G -spaces. Our equivariant suspension theorem is radically different from those that have appeared previously. Rather than asserting, under certain very restrictive hypotheses, that the suspension map is an isomorphism (or epimorphism), our theorem describes, under milder hypotheses, the precise extent to which this map fails to be injective and surjective.
Will older persons and their clinicians use a shared decision-making instrument?

OBJECTIVE: To examine experiences of older persons and their clinicians with shared decision making (SDM) and their willingness to use an SDM instrument. DESIGN: Qualitative focus group study. PARTICIPANTS: Four focus groups of 41 older persons and 2 focus groups of 11 clinicians, purposively sampled to encompass a range of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. APPROACH AND MAIN RESULTS: Audiotaped responses were transcribed, coded independently, and analyzed by 3 reviewers using the constant comparative method. Patient participants described using informal facilitators of shared decision making and supported use of an SDM instrument to keep “the doctor and patient on the same page.” They envisioned the instrument as “part of the medical record” that could be “referenced at home.” Clinician participants described the instrument as a “motivational and educational tool” that could “customize care for individual patients.” Some clinician and patient participants expressed reluctance given time constraints and unfamiliarity with the process of setting participatory clinical goals. CONCLUSIONS: Participants indicated that they would use a shared decision-making instrument in their clinical encounters and attributed multiple functions to the instrument, especially as a tool to facilitate agreement with treatment goals and plans.
Miniature homeodomains: high specificity without an N-terminal arm.

Recently, we described a strategy for the design of miniature proteins that bind DNA and protein surfaces with high affinity and selectivity. This strategy involves identifying the functional epito...
Reduction of surface waves in chirostrip antennas

The quantitative study of surface wave propagation in a new class of printed-circuit antennas named chirostrip* antennas† is given. It is shown that by using lossless chiral materials as substrates of such antennas, surface wave power can be significantly reduced. This design will provide a promising solution for highly efficient, wideband printed-circuit antennas.
Pay for performance in public and private schools

Abstract Previous research on teacher merit pay has concluded that its failure is due to the complexity of teachers' jobs and the need for teamwork and cooperation in schools. This research re-opens the issue by comparing the use of merit pay in public and private schools. Merit pay is used in a large number of private schools. Awards are not trivial; nor is it the case that merit pay is awarded to nearly everyone. Reasons for the failure of merit pay are not inherent in teaching, but are due to specific circumstances in public education, notably the opposition of teacher unions. [JEL I20]
An Efficient Resource Scheduling Algorithm for Phased Array Antenna Satellites

A phased array antenna has advantages of flexible beam, shape/size and rapid cycling across the coverage area, by the use of solid state power amplifiers and an antenna patterning matrix. Optimum scheduling of a phased array antenna system, can enhance the performance of the communication satellite for bursty high-rate data users over high frequency bands. In this paper, we derive an optimum scheduling policy for a phased array antenna satellite to serve a large number of users with a small number of onboard modulators. Then, from, the optimum, analytic result, we develop a near-optimum, real-time algorithm, of performing active user selection, antenna gain patterning, power allocation, and admission control. The algorithm, serves users with better channel conditions, less interference, and higher queuing delays. Power is allocated for the selected users to have the same marginal returns of a composite cost function with respect to consumed power. We introduce a total accumulated delay constraint for admission control and system, stability. To suppress interference between close-in users, the algorithm, makes a choice between interference suppression (in the form, of space division multiplexing) and sequential service (in the form, of time division multiplexing) depending on users' geographic distribution. The simulation result indicates that the real-time algorithm, can achieve a throughput close to the analytic steady-state upper bound
Development of coordinated movement in chicks: II. Temporal analysis of hindlimb muscle synergies at embryonic day 10 in embryos with spinal gap transections.

Spinal neural circuits can recruit muscles to produce organized patterns of activity early in embryonic development. In a previous study, using multichannel electromyographic (EMG) recordings, we characterized burst parameters for these patterns in the legs of chick embryos during spontaneous motility in ovo at embryonic days (E) 9 and E10 (Bradley and Bekoff, 1990). Results of the study suggested both neural and biomechanical factors play an important role in the development of coordinated limb movements. In this study, to explore the contribution of descending neural inputs to the control of leg movements during motility, we applied similar methods to characterize motor patterns produced by the spinal cord in the absence of descending inputs. Thoracic spinal gap transections were performed at E2 and EMG patterns were recorded at E10. Several EMG features for chronic spinal embryos were similar to those for normal embryos and demonstrate that lumbar spinal circuits can be correctly assembled to control limb movements in the absence of connectivity with more rostral neural structures during early differentiation processes. However, certain aspects of the EMG patterns in chronic spinal embryos were different from patterns in normal embryos and provide support for conclusions drawn earlier by Oppenheim (1975). Specifically, our data support the view that propriospinal and/or supraspinal inputs function to regulate the timing of cyclic limb movements controlled by spinal neural circuits. Finally, we consider the possible long-term effects of chronic spinal gap transections as compared to acute spinal transections on the development of motility. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Epidemiology of HIV in southern Africa.

HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects sub-Saharan Africa and 90% of the children with HIV are found there. In addition, non-HIV-infected children in the region are also vulnerable with an estimated 11.4 million AIDS orphans (many of whom are also HIV-positive). South Africa has an estimated 5.5 million people infected with HIV, which is by far the highest in the world. South Africa was reluctant to accept international assistance and began to provide care and treatment much later than its neighbours, and access to care and treatment remains low. Only 36% of children with advanced AIDS living in South Africa were receiving antiretroviral drugs in 2007. This paper not only provides data expressing the extent of the HIV problem affecting children, but also compares neighbouring African countries’ successes and failures in combating the disease.
Synthesis, Structure, and Reactivity of Four-, Five-, and Six-Coordinate Ruthenium Carbyne Complexes

Square-planar carbyne complexes of the form Ru(⋮CR)(PCy3)2X (X = F, Cl, Br, I, O3SCF3) are prepared by net dehydrohalogenation of the Grubbs catalysts Ru(CHR)(PCy3)2Cl2 followed by substitution of the chloride ligand (when X ≠ Cl). The dehydrohalogenation can be effected in one step (R = n-Bu, Ph, p-C6H4Me) by Ge(CH[SiMe3]2)2 or in two steps via treatment with excess aryloxide such as NaO-p-C6H4-t-Bu followed by SnCl2. The latter route gives greater yields but is more restricted in scope. Addition of HCl (1 equiv) to Ru(⋮CR)(PCy3)2X (X = Cl, Br, I) affords Ru(CHR)(PCy3)2ClX; those with mixed halide ligand sets undergo rapid halide exchange in solution. Upon treatment with the appropriate oxidant, each Ru(⋮C-p-C6H4Me)(PCy3)2X complex undergoes two-electron oxidation. Oxidation of Ru(⋮C-p-C6H4Me)(PCy3)2X (X = F, Cl, Br, I) by XeF2, C2Cl6, Br2, and I2, respectively, yields either six-coordinate bis-phosphine complexes Ru(⋮C-p-C6H4Me)(PCy3)2X3 (X = F, Cl) or square-pyramidal mono-phosphine complexes Ru(⋮C-p-C...
Financial Structure and Corporate Behavior in Japan and the US: insulation versus integration with speculative pressures

This paper examines the impact of speculative financial markets on corporate behavior under the Japanese and US financial systems. While both countries experienced speculative financial booms during the 1980s, real sector corporate decision making was relatively insulated from such activity in Japan by its bifurcated capital markets: high-turnover trading of much equity coexists with another segment in which large blocks of firms equity and debt are held long term, by capital suppliers who are strategic business allies. In the American system, in contrast, fluid and impersonal stock trading leaves firms vulnerable to the impact of short term price movements. This avenue for speculative financial market pressures has militated toward reduced time horizons and financial ratio-based decision criteria in the US corporate sector. The main implication is that mechanisms must be found for insulating American corporate decision making from speculative pressures. Rather than attempting to mimic the undemocratic ro...
Diamagnetic properties of tetrahedrally coordinated Ge1-xSx and Ge1-xSex amorphous alloys

Abstract Measurements of the diamagnetic susceptibility χ at room temperature are reported for Ge1-xSx and Ge1-xSex amorphous alloys as a function of composition. The composition dependence of χ is shown to reflect the corresponding changes in the average gap Eg and it is concluded that the dia diamagnetic enhancement observed in tetrahedrally bonded amorphous semiconductors is caused by a decrease in the interband matrix element in the Van-Vleck paramagnetic susceptibility term with bond angle distortion rather than changes in Eg.
Nucleotide Excision Repair in Oocyte Nuclear Extracts from Xenopus laevis

We have developed efficient DNA repair extracts derived from the unusually large nuclei of Xenopus oocytes. These extracts use nucleotide excision repair (NER) to completely remove bulky adducts from DNA. There is very little or no synthesis on control, undamaged DNA, indicating the extracts do not have significant nonspecific nuclease activity, and repair of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) occurs in the dark, indicating that NER, and not photolyase, is responsible for CPD repair. The extracts can be inactivated with antibodies specific to repair proteins and then repair activity can be restored by adding purified recombinant protein. Here we describe detailed protocols for preparing Xenopus nuclear repair extracts.
Areal estimation of intensity and frequency of summertime precipitation over a midlatitude region

[1] Spatially averaged precipitation characteristics derived from observations are needed to evaluate climate model generated precipitation intensity and frequency. In this study, observations from gauges and radar datasets are used to address three issues that are related to the areal estimation of intensity and frequency of summertime precipitation over the state of Ohio, USA. First, spatial averages of intensity and frequency from point precipitation are found to be very sensitive to the averaging method (i.e., spatial averaging followed by temporal averaging versus temporal followed by spatial averaging), particularly at lower precipitation thresholds. Second, approximately 30 gauges are found to be necessary to construct average intensity for a typical climate model grid, which is much higher than the gauge number required for average precipitation amount. Finally, the fractional area receiving rainfall is found to have a fairly linear relation with the precipitation amount averaged over the grid, but the slope differs between the gauge and radar data.
Facing the Future of Plant-Insect Interaction Research: Le Retour à la “Raison d'Être”

The interaction between herbivorous insects and the angiosperm plants they consume, collectively constituting the majority of macroscopic species in terrestrial communities, has often been metaphorically likened to warfare (e.g. [Gonzalez and Nebert, 1990][1]), and the process of reciprocating
Structure and dynamics of the “configuration interaction” model of liquid water

Abstract Structural and dynamical properties of liquid water have been obtained over a range of temperatures by computer simulation of a 343 molecule system employing the “configuration interaction” potential. Use of an unproved molecular dynamics algorithm and a high-speed array processor permitted simulations spanning times an order of magnitude longer than previously feasible.
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Interleaves for Multifunctional Fiber Reinforced Composites

The integration of energy storage into structural multifunctional materials has found use in a wide variety of applications, such as future air and ground vehicles. However, the present realization of these materials cannot be used to increase the structural properties thus limiting its future use in these applications. Here, we developed a novel multifunctional composite material using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) interleaves in carbon fiber composites. The carbon fibers function as both the structural reinforcement as well as the electrodes for the dielectric polymer. It has shown that energy storage functionality can be added into the composites with no reduction in the short beam shear strength. Currently, the breakdown strength is low due to challenges in the processing of the composites and the potential for regions of reduced thickness during pressing. In future research, the manufacturing process of the composites will be investigated to improve the breakdown strength in order to obtain high energy density in addition to preserving the outstanding mechanical properties. This new multifunctional material will open a door to the development of advanced structures that distribute energy storage throughout the composite thus eliminating their current ad hoc implementation.
The Effect of Cathepsins from Varied Sources on Proteinpolysaccharide (PP-L) of Bovine Costal Cartilage and on Proteoglycan Subunit (PGS) of Bovine Nasal Cartilage

The death of the hypertrophic cartilage cells of epiphyseM plates may be causally linked to the provisional calcification of extraterritorial matrix in the vicinity of such cells. An increasing number of cytoplasmic organelles, limited by a single membrane and morphologically identified as lysosomes are found in maturing chondrocytes (8). Moreover, when the hypertrophic cells degenerate, the marker enzyme for lysosomes, acid phosphatase, is seen in the adjacent cartilage matrix (1, 4). Among the complement of enzymes in lysosomes there are acid proteases. These have been implicated as playing a role in the modification of eartilagenous matrices (3, 7, 9). On the other hand, hydrolases released from elements of invading capillary sprouts may also have a lyric effect on the matrix (7). In view of the two possibilities mentioned above, an acid protease isolated from bovine costal cartilage has been compared with an acid protease isolated from alveolar macrophages of rabbits as regards their effects on proteinpolysacch aride light component (PP-L)isolated from costal cartilages of calves (5) and on the proteoglycan subunit isolated from bovine nasal cartilage (6). Thin slices of fresh costal cartilage from calves were extracted two times at 4oC for 24 hours each time with 10 volumes of deionized water which was saturated with chloroform. After filtration through a sintered-glass filter, the filtrate was made 0.05 M in KC1 and 0.005 M in ~a~ttPO4. The pH of the solution was adjusted to 7.0 by the addition of concentrated HC1. To this solution at 20~ a 10 per cent solution of eetylpyridinium chloride in a 0.005 M sodium phosphate buffer, pit 7.0, which was also 0.05 M in KC], was slowly added with stirring until a floeeulent end point was reached. The resultant precipitate was removed by filtration through a sinteredglass filter of medium porosity. Thereafter the clear filtrate was set aside at 4oC overnight. If excess cetylpyridinium chloride precipitated during this time, it was removed by filtration at 4oC. The solution was dialyzed against a 0.005 M sodium phosphate buffer, pit 7.0, which was also 0.05 M in KC1, for 6 hours at room temperature and then against water saturated with chloroform for 16 hours. It was next equilibrated by dialysis against a 0.005 M potassium acetate buffer, pit 4.0, which was also 0.05 M in KCI. Of the resultant retent~te, 1000 ml were passed through a 2 x30 em column of SE-Sephadex C-25, which too had been previously equilibrated
Thionein gene expression in Cd++-variants of the CHO cell: correlation of thionein synthesis rates with translatable mRNA levels during induction, deinduction, and superinduction

The relationship of thionein synthesis rates to translatable cytoplasmic thionein mRNA levels was investigated for the first time in a cultured cell system. Thionein synthesis was induced in Cdr, a cadmium-resistant variant of CHO, by exposure to 2 microM CdCl2. Following a short (1.5 hr) lag, thionein synthesis increases to a rate that is at least 30 times the uninduced rate 7-8 hr after addition of Cd++. This increase is blocked by the coincident addition of a actinomycin D. Cytoplasmic thionein mRNA levels, measured by translation in a modified wheat germ system, increase rapidly following induction to values approximately 25 times uninduced levels within 6-8 hr. The increase in thionein mRNA precede proportionate increases in thionein synthesis by 0.5-1.0 hr. Continued exposure to Cd++ results in a decreased thionein synthesis rate after 8 hr. By 30 hr, the rate is one-half that seen 6-8 hr after induction. Removal of Cd++ after 8 hr results in a rapid decrease in thionein synthesis (t 1/2 approximately 4 hr). Both decreases are inhibited by the addition of actinomycin. In all instances--induction, deinduction, and actinomycin-mediated "super-induction"--translatable thionein mRNA levels and thionein synthesis rates increase, decrease, or are maintained coordinately. The results suggest that thionein synthesis in Cdr is controlled primarily by the level of translatable cytoplasmic thionein mRNA.
Quality management in developing economies

Explores the importance of quality management in achieving global competitiveness. Emphasizes the need for developing countries to revitalize their economies through quality management practice. Uses Deming principles of quality management and dialectical materialism inquiry system to demonstrate how the practice of quality can help developing countries to improve their national economies and, therefore, compete effectively in international markets.
Chiari malformations in patients with uncorrected sagittal synostosis.

Abstract Background Single suture craniosynostoses were long considered a benign condition with little risk of complications. In many cases, parents may forgo surgical correction because of the inherent risks of surgical intervention. Case Description We report 2 cases of uncorrected sagittal synostosis associated with the development of Chiari malformations with syringomyelia later in life. To our knowledge, this is the first report of symptomatic Chiari malformations associated with uncorrected sagittal synostosis. We discuss mode of presentation and management in each case. We propose that these patients either have a pathophysiological predisposition to Chiari malformations based on the compensatory bone growth pattern in sagittal synostosis resulting in craniocephalic disproportion or that there may be an underlying genetic alteration accounting for the association of the 2 processes. Conclusions Further investigations are warranted to investigate whether the incidence of Chiari malformations is decreased in patients who have undergone early correction of an isolated sagittal synostosis. We conclude that patients with sagittal synostosis should be evaluated for Chiari malformations before being discharged permanently from a neurosurgical practice.
Healing through Movement: The Benefits of Belly Dance for Gendered Victimization

Perceptions of “belly dance” are that it is degrading, exploitive, and incongruous to feminism. Curiously, however, the dance is incredibly popular in various parts of the world, including the Unit...
Curbside conversation about noblesse oblige and moral commitment.

“Young lady, who are all of these people?” asked the old man. “Pharmacy students—and their teachers,” replied the young woman. “Why are they here?” asked the old man. “The students are receiving a special award tonight,” replied the young woman. “What sort of award?” asked
PHARMACOLOGIC MODULATION OF ERYTHROPOIETIN PRODUCTION

proof for the humoral control of red cell production; he found that erythropoietic stimulation of the bone marrow was seen in both hypoxic and nonhypoxic partners even though only one of the parabionts was exposed to hypoxia. Further documentation was provided by Erslev (4) when he noted a reticulocytosis in recipient rabbits infused with donor rabbit plasma from bled animals. The site of erythropoietin production was very controversial until 1957, when Jacobson et al (5) demonstrated that bilateral nephrectomy abol­ ished the erythropoietic response of rats to bleeding. In 196 1 Kuratowska et al (6) and Fisher & Birdwell (7) demonstrated that erythropoietin could be produced by the isolated perfused kidney. The mechanism of the control of both renal and extrarenal erythropoietin production is thought to be associated with a renal oxygen sensor mechanism. When the level of oxygen in this sensor cell is reduced below physiologic levels, increased renal biosynthesis of erythropoietin occurs. In this review I discuss the physiOlogic and pharmacologic mechanisms that regulate renal and extrarenal control of erythropoietin secretion and/or production.
Three-year Oncologic and Renal Functional Outcomes After Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy

Abstract Background With the wider adoption of minimally invasive partial nephrectomy (PN), intermediate- and long-term outcomes data are needed to make firm conclusions about oncologic and functional efficacy, especially for robot-assisted PN (RPN). Objective To report intermediate-term oncologic and renal functional outcomes of RPN. Design, setting, and participants We performed a chart review of patients who had undergone RPN since June 2006; patients with a minimum of 2 yr of follow-up were included in this study. Length of follow-up was calculated from the date of surgery to the date of last clinical follow-up. Patients who were either lost to follow-up or who had follow-up outside of our center were sent surveys. Intervention Transperitoneal RPN with or without hilar clamping. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis The demographic, preoperative, and postoperative data were statistically analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and cancer-free survival (CFS). Upstaging of chronic kidney disease (CKD) was calculated, as well. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to show predicting factors for the latest estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Results and limitations Of 427 patients, 134 had a minimum follow-up of 2 yr, and 70 had a minimum of 3–6 yr of follow-up. The mean age was 59.1±12.5 yr, body mass index (BMI) was 29.8±6.2kg/m 2 , and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score was 4.2±1.6. The mean tumor size on computed tomography (CT) scan was 3.0±1.6cm, RENAL score was 7.2±1.8, estimated blood loss (EBL) was 270.7±291.9ml, operative time was 189.1±54.8min, and warm ischemia time (WIT) was 17.9±10.3min. A total of two intraoperative complications (1.5%) and five high-grade Clavien complications (3.7%) occurred. Patients stayed on average for 3.7±1.7 d in the hospital, and the average follow-up was 3.0±0.9 yr. OS was 97.01% at 3 yr and 90.20% at 5 yr; CFS was 98.92% at 3 yr and 98.92% at 5 yr; and CSS was 99.04%, as projected by the Kaplan-Meier method. The mean preoperative GFR was 88.2±0.8ml/min per 1.73 m 2 ; the latest postoperative GFR was 80±24ml/min per 1.73m 2 , with a 8±17.4% change. There was a 20.2% upstaging of CKD postoperatively, but no patients started dialysis. Conclusions This study reaffirms that RPN is effective in renal function preservation and oncologic control at an intermediate follow-up interval.
The syp Enhancer Sequence Plays a Key Role in Transcriptional Activation by the σ54-Dependent Response Regulator SypG and in Biofilm Formation and Host Colonization by Vibrio fischeri

Biofilm formation by Vibrio fischeri is a complex process that requires multiple regulators. One such regulator, the NtrC-like response regulator SypG, controls biofilm formation and host colonization by V. fischeri via its impact on transcription of the symbiosis polysaccharide (syp) locus. SypG is predicted to activate syp transcription by binding to the syp enhancer (SE), a conserved sequence located upstream of four syp promoters. In this study, we performed an in-depth analysis of the sequences necessary for SypG to promote syp transcription and biofilm formation. We found that the SE sequence is necessary for SypG-mediated syp transcription, identified individual bases necessary for efficient activation, and determined that SypG is able to bind to syp promoter regions. We also identified SE sequences outside the syp locus and established that SypG recognizes these sequences as well. Finally, deletion of the SE sequence upstream of sypA led to defects in both biofilm formation and host colonization that could be restored by reintroducing the SE sequence into its native location in the chromosome. This work thus fills in critical gaps in knowledge of the Syp regulatory circuit by demonstrating a role for the SE sequence in SypG-dependent control of biofilm formation and host colonization and by identifying new putative regulon members. It may also provide useful insights into other bacteria, such as Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, that have syp-like loci and conserved SE sequences.
Heuristic algorithms for scheduling iterative task computations on distributed memory machines

Many partitioned scientific programs can be modeled as iterative executions of computational tasks and represented by iterative task graphs (ITGs). An ITG may or may not have dependence cycles. In this paper, we consider the symbolic scheduling of ITGs on distributed memory architectures with nonzero communication overhead and propose heuristic algorithms for scheduling both cyclic and acyclic ITGs without searching an entire iteration space. Our approach incorporates techniques of software pipelining, graph unfolding, directed acyclic graph (DAG) scheduling, and load balancing. We analyze the asymptotic optimality of the algorithms to show that the derived schedules are competitive to optimal solutions. We also study the sensitivity of scheduling performance on inaccurate weights. Finally, we present experimental results to demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization techniques.
Assessing and treating social skills deficits: A case study for the scientist-practitioner

Abstract The goals of this article were to examine various empirically proven assessment and intervention methods that can be used to remediate social skills problems and to illustrate the utilization of these methods in a case study. The case study concerned a withdrawn elementary child, her teacher, and her parents in a joint consultative intervention designed to increase her interactions with peers illustrated in the course of assessment and treatment. Combining the manipulation of antecedent/consequent events with modeling or coaching procedures constituted an effective multimethod approach to providing psychological services.
Drivers of insurance demand in emerging markets

This study focuses on factors driving insurance demand measured as insurance density and growth rate of premiums in emerging markets during the years 1998–2008. Findings indicate that demographic factors explain a greater variance relative to economic and institutional variables for insurance density, while economic factors explain the greatest amount of variance in terms of insurance growth rates. We find that growth rate of the country, GNI per capita, interest rate, merchandise trade, and business freedom influence insurance density. The influence of growth rate of the country was in opposing directions in the case of non-life and life density.
Mediation of high-temperature injury by roots and shoots during reproductive growth of wheat

Abstract Previous studies suggest that high temperature stress on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) involves root processes and acceleration of monocarpic senescence. Physiological changes in wheat roots and shoots were investigated to elucidate their relationship to injury from elevated temperatures after anthesis. Plants were grown under uniform conditions until 10 d after anthesis, when shoot/root regimes of 25°C/25°C, 25°C/35°C, 35°C/25°C and 35°C/35°C were imposed. Growth and senescence of shoots and grain were influenced more by root temperatures than by shoot temperatures. High root temperatures increased activities of protease and RNasc enzymes, and loss of chlorophyll, protein and RNA from shoots, whereas low root temperatures had opposite effects. High root temperatures appeared to induce shoot senescence directly. High shoot temperatures probably disrupted root processes, including export of cytokinins, and induced high leaf protease activity, senescence and cessation of grain development. The authors concluded that responses of wheat to high temperatures, whether of roots or shoots, are manifested as acceleration of senescence and may be mediated by roots during grain development.
Beliefs and practices concerning twins, hermaphrodites, and albinos among the Bamana and Maninka of Mali

The Bamana and Maninka of Mali greatly value twins, and have elaborated a range of cultural beliefs and practices to assure their survival. Rates of twinning among these two ethnic groups average from 15.2/1000 to 17.9/1000 births compared to 10.5/1000 births (without assisted reproduction) in the United States and Great Britain. Twins (flaniw) are regarded as extraordinary beings with unusual powers, and as a gift from the supreme deity. A small altar (sinzin) is maintained in the home of twins, and periodic sacrifices of chicken blood, kola nuts, millet paste and millet beer regularly made to assure their protection. Albinos (yefeguew) and true and pseudo-hermaphrodites (tyetenousotew) are also considered twin beings. However, they are believed to be the result of aberrant parental social behavior. The Bamana and Maninka believe that all four groups (twins, albinos, hermaphrodites, and pseudo-harmaphrodites) are closely linked to Faro, an androgynous supernatural being who provides equilibrium in the world. Faro is the original albino and hermaphrodite who gave birth to the first pair of twins after self-impregnation. Whenever a twin dies, a small wooden statue is sculpted called a flanitokele (twin that remains). This commemorative figure is kept close to the surviving twin, reflecting a belief in the inseparability of twins. Eventually, the surviving twin takes responsibility for the figure. When a surviving twin marries, another figure is often sculpted in the opposite sex from the deceased twin, and placed with the original sculpture. Such commemorative sculptures are not created upon the death of those who are albinos, hermaphrodites, or pseudo-hermaphrodites. In recent years, transformational belief patterns have evolved as increasing numbers of Bamana and Maninka embrace Islam. Traditional beliefs are often given Islamic myths of origin. However, even in this Islamic context, many practices that assure twin survival are maintained.
Effect of Catalyst Properties on Membrane Degradation Rate and the Underlying Degradation Mechanism in PEMFCs

Nafion membrane degradation was studied in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) under accelerated decay conditions. Fluoride emission rate (FER) determined by fuel cell effluent water analysis was used to quantify the membrane degradation. Membrane degradation is most likely caused either directly or indirectly by the species formed as a result of the H 2 and O 2 reaction on the catalyst. To further understand the mechanism, the effects of the catalyst location, type, its interaction with O 2 and H 2 O, and cell current density on the FER were investigated and their implications on the underlying membrane degradation mechanism are discussed.
Optical Mapping of Release Properties in Synapses

Synapses are important functional units that determine how information flows through the brain. Understanding their biophysical properties and the molecules that underpin them is an important goal of cellular neuroscience. Thus, it is of interest to develop protocols that allow easy measurement of synaptic parameters in model systems that permit molecular manipulations. Here, we used a sensitive and high-time resolution optical approach that allowed us to characterize two functional parameters critical to presynaptic efficacy: vesicle fusion probability (Pv) and readily releasable pool size (RRP). We implemented two different approaches to determine the RRP size that were in broad agreement: depletion of the RRP by high frequency stimulation and saturation of the calcium sensor during single action potential stimuli. Our methods are based on reporters that provide a robust, quantitative, purely presynaptic readout and present a new avenue to study molecules that affect synaptic vesicle exocytosis.
Two new methods of paleocurrent determination from trough cross-stratification

ABSTRACT Trough cross-stratification is the most abundant, accurate, and efficient palcocurrent-direction indicator in fluvial deposits. However, exposures in which trough axes can be measured are rare. Two new methods are presented for the determination of paleocurrent directions from the more common exposure types--namely, the use of three-dimensional exposures of oblique cuts through individual trough limbs, and two-dimensional exposures of sets of trough cross-strata. Three-dimensional exposures of trough limbs can be measured and treated statistically on a stereographic plot to determine the average trough-axis orientation. In two-dimensional exposures, characteristic asymmetry of the basal scour surface and truncation of foreset laminae can aid in estimation, within about 25°, of pal ocurrent direction.
A description of drift chambers used in a Fermilab experiment

Abstract We give a detailed description of the drift chamber system used in a charm search at Fermilab. All important aspects of design and performance are discussed.
Anisotropy and feedthrough in magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities

The magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instability (MRT) is important to peta-watt pulsed-power system development, wire-array z-pinches and magnetized target fusion, and equation-of-state studies using flyer plates or isentropic compression [1,2]. It is also important to the study of the crab nebulae [3]. In this paper, MRT in a finite slab is studied analytically using the ideal MHD model. The slab may be accelerated by an arbitrary combination of magnetic pressure and fluid pressure, thus allowing an arbitrary degree of anisotropy intrinsic to the acceleration mechanism. When the magnetic fields in different regions of the slab are assumed to be in different directions, the model may provide an analytically tractable approximation of MRT in a cylindrical liner containing a preheated fuel magnetized with an axial field [2]. The effect of feedthrough in the finite slab is analyzed. The classical feedthrough solution obtained by Taylor in the limit of zero magnetic field, the single interface MRT solution of Chandrasekhar in the limit of infinite slab thickness, and Harris' stability condition [4] on purely magnetic driven MRT, are all readily recovered in the analytic theory as limiting cases. In general, we find that MRT retains robust growth if it exists. However, feedthrough may be substantially reduced if there are magnetic fields on both sides of the slab, and if the MRT mode invokes bending of the magnetic field lines.
Understanding Race and Ethnicity in Rural America1

Rural sociologists have an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the race and ethnic relations literature by focusing on the unique social position of minority communities in rural areas. Reservations, colonias, and rural African-Americans in the South are located in close proximity to the historic institutions established for their exploitation and oppression—slavery, for example. As such, these communities represent a legacy from which much can be learned. The potential impact of this work is readily seen in the context of the past contributions of rural sociologists. This discussion concludes with a review of the work of scholars studying race and ethnicity in rural areas in the early, middle, and later years of the discipline of rural sociology.
Improved millimeter-wave mixer performance analysis at cryogenic temperatures

The results of a 600-GHz mixer performance analysis using an improved model for computing the Schottky diode capacitance-voltage (C-V) relationship are presented. The computed C-V data for a realistic submillimeter-wave mixer diode are given as a function of physical temperature and compared to the standard analytic expression based on a solution of Poisson's equation. Both C-V relationships are used to predict the performance of an ideally terminated 600 GHz mixer operating at 300, 140, 80, and 30 K. It is shown that the drift-diffusion model more accurately describes the mixer performance when the physical temperature is reduced below approximately=100 K. >
The Case Against Secularization: A Rebuttal

This article examines the main charges against secularization theory and finds them wanting. Contrary to the recent arguments of various critics, there is a reasonably solid body of secularization theory with valid historical content; secularization cannot be explained away as either institutionalization or transformation; it is neither a self-limiting process nor reversed by fundamentalist movements; and while secularization theory may be of limited use in current macrosociological research on global change, it is as yet far from irrelevant. Until it is more solidly refuted, secularization theory remains a valuable part of the theoretical arsenal of the sociology of religion