cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of acclimation salinity and age on the salinity tolerance of pink shrimp postlarvae

Abstract The pink shrimp Farfantepenaeus duorarum (Burkenroad) lives in south Florida ecosystems in different salinity regimes ranging from brackish to hypersaline. In Florida Bay, the main nursery grounds, juveniles reside in 25–50 salinity; while 20 km northwest of the Bay, juveniles inhabit more estuarine salinities between 5 and 15. In this study we investigated the hypothesis that the disparate salinity regimes in which pink shrimp juveniles reside may be due to a non-genetic resistance adaptation to different acclimation salinities in their respective nursery habitats during postlarval development when the maximum tolerance to salinity occurs. To test this hypothesis and to define salinity tolerances during ontogenetic development, salinity trials were conducted with four postlarval ages (PL 15, PL 25, PL 35 and PL 55) previously acclimated in two salinities (15 and 35) and then exposed to an abrupt salinity change for 96 h at 27.5 ± 0.5 °C. Results indicated that the degree of tolerance to salinity varies with ontogenetic development. Regardless of acclimation salinity, two clearly distinguishable salinity tolerance ages were discernable. Postlarvae of age PL 35 and PL 55 exhibited significantly higher average survival than at an age of PL 15 and PL 25. This result suggests that postlarvae between 25 and 35 d old may complete development of osmoregulatory capabilities to cope with abrupt changes in salinity, which concurs with the age at which planktonic postlarvae settle on the sea-grass banks of Florida Bay. Results regarding salinity tolerances in the two acclimation salinity groups demonstrated that postlarvae acclimated in a salinity of 15 tolerated salinities 20 units lower than those acclimated in regular 35 sea water salinity. The high survival of postlarvae recorded at salinities between 2 and 15 after a long acclimation period at a salinity of 15 suggested that non-genetic resistance adaptation (acclimation) had taken place during development, supporting our hypothesis that a preconditioning salinity during postlarval development may modify the subsequent tolerance limits of juvenile stages.
The subconstituent algebra of strongly regular graphs associated with a Latin square

It is well-known that one may construct several strongly regular graphs on the positions of a Latin square, where adjacency corresponds to any subset of the relations on distinct positions of being in the same row, being in the same column, having the same entry, or none of these. We describe the local spectrum and subconstituent (Terwilliger) algebras of such strongly regular graphs.
The hospitalized psychiatric patient and the primary care physician

Abstract Patients admitted to a general hospital psychiatric service were divided into two groups depending on whether they had primary care physicians. Significant differences were found in age, sex, psychiatric diagnoses, and incidence of active medical problems. The primary care physicians said they were aware of these patients’ psychiatric problems and had treated them in their offices, but were reluctant to participate in medical care during psychiatric hospitalization. The reasons for this are dis cussed, and a model for collaborative treatment by primary care physicians and hospital-based psychiatrists is presented.
Treatment outcomes and prognostic factors of patients with supratentorial low-grade oligodendroglioma

Abstract Purpose : Oligodendroglioma is a relatively rare central nervous system tumor. Currently, surgical intervention is the mainstay of treatment, and the role of postoperative radiotherapy (RT) remains a subject of controversy. The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic factors, evaluate the treatment outcomes, and assess whether postoperative RT has a benefit on local control and overall survival rates. Methods and Materials : This was a retrospective review of 52 consecutive adult patients with supratentorial low-grade oligodendrogliomas diagnosed at our institution between September 1980 and September 1998. Thirty-two received postoperative RT. Data were analyzed retrospectively to survey the significant prognostic factors for local control and overall survival. Results : The 5-year overall and progression-free survival rate was 80% and 67%, respectively. Twenty-five patients experienced local disease progression during the follow-up period. In multivariate analysis, postoperative RT and age at diagnosis showed independent prognostic significance for overall survival. For progression-free survival, postoperative RT was the only independent prognostic factor. Conclusion : On the basis of the results of this study, we recommend considering postoperative RT as one of the standard adjuvant treatment modalities for patients with supratentorial low-grade oligodendroglioma, regardless of the extent of surgical resection. The optimal treatment strategy to maximize the treatment outcome should still be explored.
Plasma Thyroid Hormone Levels in Migratory and Lake‐Resident Coho Salmon Juveniles from the Karluk River System, Alaska

Abstract This study tested the hypothesis that thyroid hormone levels in wild juvenile coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch are higher in fish beginning their seaward migration (smolts) than in lake-resident fish (parr). Average overall thyroxine (T4) levels were higher in wild smolts (3.5 ng/mL) than in wild parr (1.8 ng/mL); however, average overall triiodothyronine (T3) levels were similar in wild smolts (3.0 ng/mL) and parr (2.3 ng/mL). Whereas hormone levels in smolts varied between sampling dates (mean T4, 1.2–6.6 ng/mL; mean T3, 0.7–4.8 ng/mL; P 0.05). Partly because of these dissimilar patterns of variability, differences in thyroid hormone levels between smolts and parr tended to be subtle. Thus, wild coho smolts were more similar to wild parr than might have been predicted from studies of hatchery-reared fish. Furthermore, because hormone levels in migrants were sometimes similar to those in...
An integrated microfluidic cryo-cooled planar coil system for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

An integrated microfluidic cryo-cooled planar radiofrequency (RF) coil system has been developed to enhance the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of high resolution and ultra-fast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) experiments. The developed system can cool MR planar coils to liquid nitrogen temperature (−196 °C) without freezing the target samples on the imaging surface, thereby maintaining minimal distance between the coils and the samples. The planar coils were fabricated on a 0.5 mm thick poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) substrate by using microfabrication technologies with a poly (dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) microfluidic channel for liquid nitrogen cooling. The average signal to noise ratio (SNR) enhancement measured with imaging was 1.51 ± 0.09 times.
Severe lactic acidosis and multiorgan failure due to thiamine deficiency during total parenteral nutrition

A 16-year-old perioperative paediatric patient presented with refractory lactic acidosis and multiorgan failure due to thiamine-deficient total parenteral nutrition during a recent national multivitamin shortage. Urgent empiric administration of intravenous thiamine resulted in prompt recovery from this life-threatening condition. Despite readily available treatment, a high index of suspicion is required to prevent cardiovascular collapse and mortality.
Intracranial Germ Cell Tumors: A Single Institution Experience and Review of the Literature

There is little literature to guide therapy in children and young adults with intracranial germ cell tumors. We present 17 consecutively diagnosed intracranial germ cell tumors at The Children's Hospital, Denver, from 1995 to 2001. Of 17 patients, 3 had considerable delay in diagnosis. Two with suprasellar tumors presented with dementia, blindness and pan-hypopituitarism and another with recurrent subarachnoid hemorrhage. Seven had germinoma, three were metastatic at diagnosis. Ten had non-germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCT), 5/10 were alpha feto-protein (AFP) positive only, one β-human chorionic growth (βHCG) factor positive only, 3 positive for AFP and βHCG, and 1 malignant teratoma. Therapy for metastatic patients consisted of chemotherapy followed by craniospinal radiation (CSI). Patients with localized disease received chemotherapy followed by focal radiation. Two patients received chemotherapy only, one because she died of sepsis while receiving chemotherapy and one because of neurologic injury incurred during surgery parents elected for no therapy. Three patients have died, one of tumor recurrence, one from a remote complication of surgery and one of sepsis. Twelve patients are alive without evidence of disease from 10 to 68 months (median 31.5 months). All five children with only AFP positivity, treated with chemotherapy and focal radiation are alive without evidence of disease at 10, 16, 22, 41 and 41 months. Thus, there is little evidence that CSI is necessary in non-metastatic germinomas and AFP positive NGGCTs when combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy is used. However, complications of delayed diagnosis, surgery and chemotherapy are important causes of mortality, with only one patient dying of tumor.
Bonding in small ring paddlanes

Abstract The geometries of [1.1.1.1]paddlane and [2.2.2.2]paddlane have been calculated via ab initio mo theory. In both cases, a short bridgehead-bridgehead distance and a relatively large bond order was found, indicating a bonding interaction between these formally non-bonded atoms. The energies of conversion to more stable compounds were estimated.
Molecular changes and vision loss in a mouse model of closed-globe blast trauma.

PURPOSE. To characterize retinal changes and assess vision after an eye-directed air blast. METHODS. Adult C57Bl/6 mice were exposed to a blast directed at one eye. Optical coherence tomography and histology were performed to assess retina and optic nerve integrity. Cell death, oxidative stress and glial reactivity were examined by immunohistochemistry. Visual changes were measured by electroretinogram recordings and the optokinetic reflex. RESULTS. In the outer retina, eye blast caused retinal pigment epithelium vacuoles and rare retinal detachments followed by regional cell death. Labeling for nitrotyrosine and markers of pyroptosis (caspase-1) and necroptosis (RIP-1, 3) increased, primarily in the inner retina, after blast. Caspase-1 labeling was restricted primarily to the starburst amacrine cells. A few degenerating axons were detected at 28 days post-blast. Despite a lack of substantial cell death or decreased electroretinogram, there was a deficit in visual acuity after blast. CONCLUSIONS. Oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and cell death became increasingly prevalent over time post-blast suggestive of an ongoing neurodegenerative response. Outer retinal changes either resolved or remained focal. In contrast, inner retinal changes were more robust and spread from focal regions to the entire retina over time post-blast. Our model of eye blast trauma causes molecular changes and a decrease in visual acuity within the first month post-blast despite a lack of overt eye injury. This subtle response matches the delayed presentation of visual deficits in some blast-exposed Veterans. Language: en
Efficient method for the near-field scattering by buried dielectric and conducting objects

ABSTRACT This paper presents an efficient method for the near-field electromagnetic scattering by three-dimensional buried dielectric and conducting objects, in which the interaction of source antennas, the ground, and scatterers is considered. With the excitation of a linear antenna, the electric field integral equations for the antenna and buried objects, and their radiation and scattered fields are formulated, which involve two different sets of Sommerfeld integrals. Because the evaluation of such Sommerfeld integrals needs tremendous CPU time, the integration along steepesi-descent paths and leading-order approximations are introduced to accelerate the computation, in which the difference between the two sets of Sommerfeld integrals is addressed. As an example, the excitation of dipole and loop antenna is considered for the scattering by buried objects, which is important for the geophysical detection problem. Numerical results show that the efficient method can reduce tremendous CPU time compared wit...
Late neurodevelopmental outcome after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

Objective We sought to define the neurodevelopmental status of school-aged survivors of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repaired during infancy. Methods All school-aged survivors of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair performed at a single institution were eligible. Thirty children returned for neurologic examination and neurodevelopmental testing. Results The median age at total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair was 16 days (range, 1-141 days), and age at testing was 11 years (range, 6-19 years). Pulmonary venous return was supracardiac in 14 patients, infracardiac in 12 patients, cardiac in 3 patients, and mixed in 1 patient. Preoperative obstructed total anomalous pulmonary venous connection was present in 6 patients. Circulatory arrest was used in all repairs, with a median duration of 35 minutes (range, 17-55 minutes). At follow-up, microcephaly (head circumference <5%) was present in 28%. Neuromuscular examination was suspect or abnormal in 27%. Mean Full-scale IQ (95.3 +/- 18.5) and Verbal IQ (98.6 +/- 20.2) were not different from population norms, but Performance IQ (92.3 +/- 16.9) was significantly lower than population norms ( P = .02). Fine motor skills and visual-motor coordination were significantly impaired ( P < .01 for Grooved Pegboard and Test of Visual-Motor Integration). Patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection also had difficulty with tests of attention (Test of Everyday Attention for Children, P < .01), but results of tests of memory function were not significantly different from population norms. Conclusions School-aged survivors of infant total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair exhibit a significant incidence of neurodevelopmental difficulties. Fine motor function, visual-motor integration, and attention are the most commonly affected domains. Evaluation of these children is indicated to identify those who are at risk for learning disabilities and who could benefit from early intervention.
Nucleoporin Nup98 associates with Trx/MLL and NSL histone-modifying complexes and regulates Hox gene expression.

Summary The nuclear pore complex is a transport channel embedded in the nuclear envelope and made up of 30 different components termed nucleoporins (Nups). In addition to their classical role in transport, a subset of Nups has a conserved role in the regulation of transcription via direct binding to chromatin. The molecular details of this function remain obscure, and it is unknown how metazoan Nups are recruited to their chromatin locations or what transcription steps they regulate. Here, we demonstrate genome-wide and physical association between Nup98 and histone-modifying complexes MBR-R2/NSL and Trx/MLL. Importantly, we identify a requirement for MBD-R2 in recruitment of Nup98 to many of its genomic target sites. Consistent with its interaction with the Trx/MLL complex, Nup98 is shown to be necessary for Hox gene expression in developing fly tissues. These findings introduce roles of Nup98 in epigenetic regulation that may underlie the basis of oncogenicity of Nup98 fusions in leukemia.
College: An Opportunity for Reinvention?

My first encounter with my freshman year roommate was a phone call in mid July. “Hey, Annemarie? This is Casey, your roommate for next year.” I had received a piece of paper with her name, address, and telephone number on it that day and was eager to speak to my future cohabitant. I found out a few minutes into the conversation that she would be going by “Anne” in college instead of Annemarie, even though she had gone by her full name her entire life.
Grouping and optimization of XPath expressions in DB2® pureXML

Several XML DBMSs support XQuery and/or SQL/XML languages, which are based on navigational primitives in the form of XPath expressions. Typically, these systems either model each XPath step as a separate query plan operator, or employ holistic approaches that can evaluate multiple steps of a single XPath expression. There have also been proposals to execute as many XPath expressions as possible within a single FLWOR block simultaneously in a data streaming context.We observe that blindly combining all possible XPath expressions for concurrent execution can result in significant performance degradation in a database system. We identify two main problems with this strategy. First, the simple strategy of grouping all XPath expressions on a single document does not always work if the query involves more than one data source or has nested query blocks. Second, merging XPath expressions may result in unnecessary execution of branches that can be filtered by predicates in other branches or elsewhere in the query. To rectify these problems, IBM® DB2® pureXML" adopts a combination of heuristic-based rewrite transformations, to decide which XPath expressions should be grouped for concurrent evaluation, and cost-based optimization to globally order the groups within the query execution plan, and locally order the branches within individual groups. Experimental evaluation confirms that selectively grouping multiple XPath expressions allows for better query evaluation performance and reduces the query optimization complexity. These optimization techniques have been implemented as part of IBM DB2 9.5 (pureXML).
Evidence for proctolin and a second myotropic peptide in the cockroach, Leucophaea maderae, determined by bioassay and HPLC analysis

Purification and analytical HPLC methods were developed for quantitatively determining proctolin in extracts of foreguts, hindguts, and heads of Leucophaea maderae. The system will measure as little as 30 ng of proctolin from extracts containing up to 50 organs. Comparison of analytical results with bioassay data indicates that all of the myogenic activity in these foregut and hindgut extracts can be accounted for by proctolin (0.83 ng/foregut, 3.3 ng/hindgut). Proctolin was absent from head extracts but these extracts contained another myogenically active peptide, the hindgut-stimulating neurohormone. Proctolin and neurohormone caused an increase in the frequency, amplitude, tonus and coordination of contractions of the hindgut. Both peptides produced a protracted excitation of the hindgut. Both proctolin at 3 × 10−10 M and HSN at 0.5 head equivalents/ml evoked responses that lasted for 65 min before the preparations were rinsed in fresh saline solution.
Multiple synchronous colonic anastomoses: are they safe?

Objective To evaluate short-term outcomes after construction of synchronous colonic anastomoses without fecal diversion. Method Using a prospective procedural database, all adult general surgery patients who underwent two synchronous segmental colon resections and anastomoses without ostomy at our institution from 1992–2007 were identified. Demographics, operative techniques, and 30-day outcomes are reported. Results are number (percent) of patients or median (interquartile range). Results Over 15 years, 69 patients underwent double colonic anastomoses [40 males, age 63 (45–76) years, BMI 25.3 (22.9–28.7) kg/m2]. Multiple colonic anastomoses were performed in one of every 201 colectomies during the study period (0.5%). The operation was an emergency in two (3%) cases; most cases were clean-contaminated 56 (81%). Ten (17%) cases were laparoscopic-assisted with a 44% conversion rate. Length of stay was seven (5–10) days. Overall 30-day morbidity was 36% including nine (13%) surgical site infections, two (2.9%) intra-abdominal abscesses requiring percutaneous drainage, and one (1.4%) wound dehiscence. There were no anastomotic leaks or fistulas, and two patients (2.9%) died within 30 days from pulmonary sepsis and complications from a distal anastomotic hemorrhage, respectively. Conclusions Synchronous colon anastomoses without fecal diversion do not appear to be associated with an increased risk of complications and can be safely constructed in selected patients.
NRAO 43-m telescope operation at 170-1700 MHz: a Bi-Static Radar Collaboration

The NRAO 43m telescope has been refurbished and begun regular observations in the frequency range 170 - 1700 MHz. The 43 m operations support a Bi-Static Radar Collaboration to measure the Earth's ionospheric turbulence. Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have designed and built a unique design wide-band feed, 150 - 1700 MHz. Lincoln Laboratories/MIT has packaged the feed with room temperature low noise amplifiers. Lincoln Laboratories has installed a high-dynamic range RF system together with a wide-band sampler system. The NRAO operates the 43 m telescope according to schedules authored by Lincoln Laboratories. Currently the 43 m telescope is tracking spacecraft 48 hr a week. The tracking antenna operation is completely automated. A group at MIT/Haystack have installed a second radar experiment at the 43 m as well as an array of 6 ‘discone’ antennas. Their experiment is testing the use of reflected FM radio stations as probes of the ionosphere.
Primary care and health system reform.

Schering-Plough, Sanofi-Aventis, Isis, Siemens, and Vascular Biogenics; and being listed as a coinventor on patents held by Brigham and Women’s Hospital that relate to the use of inflammatory biomarkers in cardiovascular disease, including the use of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in the evaluation of patients’ risk of cardiovascular disease. These patents have been licensed to Siemens and AstraZeneca. Neither of the other authors reported financial disclosures.
Electron Affinities of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

The electron affinities of benzene and four polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), naphthalene, anthracene, tetracene, and the perinaphthenyl radical, have been obtained using six common density functional theory (DFT) methods. When compared to experiment, the BHLYP, BLYP, and B3LYP functionals have average absolute errors of 0.17, 0.18, and 0.19 eV, respectively. The success of the BHLYP functional is dubious due to a fortuitous cancelation in error between the tendency for BHLYP to underestimate electron affinities and zero-point vibrational energy (ZPVE) corrections. We recommend the BLYP and B3LYP functionals for future studies of PAH anions. However, the computation of ZPVE corrections may be a limiting factor in the accuracy of any method seeking to predict electron affinities for large PAHs.
CONTRIBUTIONS OF T. K. SHERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES TO THE FIELD OF DRYING

(1983). CONTRIBUTIONS OF T. K. SHERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES TO THE FIELD OF DRYING II. Drying Technology: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 97-115.
The U.S. and Soviet Navies: Missions and Forces:

The United States Navy is structured to carry out its most demanding potential assignment: confrontation with the Soviet navy in waters near the Soviet Union. The result is an emphasis on battle groups centered around large aircraft carriers, including sophisticated systems for fleet defense. The Soviet navy is increasingly capable of extended operations far from home waters, in support of growing Soviet interests worldwide. Nevertheless, it does not yet match the U.S. Navy in offensive or defensive capabilities, and in time of war is most likely to pull back into waters nearer the Soviet Union to defend the homeland. These trends are likely to continue into the next century, barring the intervention of political or technological developments.
The distribution of acetylcholine sensitivity over uninnervated and innervated muscle fibers grown in cell culture.

Abstract This paper describes the physiological and pharmacological parameters of the response of mature muscle fibers that develop from myoblasts in vitro to iontophoretically applied acetylcholine (ACh) and the distribution of ACh sensitivity over fibers innervated in vitro by spinal cord cells and uninnervated (control) fibers. Peaks of sensitivity were detected near nerve terminals on functionally innervated fibers, but the “extrasynaptic” chemosensitivity remained high. The distribution of chemosensitivity over uninnervated fibers is not uniform: peaks or “hot spots” were detected over most fibers. Autoradiography of cultures exposed to 125I-α-bungarotoxin is consistent with the uneven distribution detected by iontophoresis. Sensitivity peaks were usually located in the immediate vicinity of obvious muscle nuclei and conversely the membrane near most nuclei was more sensitive than that over other regions along the same cell. The relation between innervation and distribution of ACh sensitivity is discussed.
Changes in indole metabolism in organ cultured rat pineal glands induced by interferon-γ

The purpose of this study was to test the effects of recombinant rat interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) on rat pineal function in organ culture. The glands were pre-incubated with IFN-gamma (50, 100, and 1,000 antiviral units/ml) for two hours, followed by a stimulation with isoproterenol (ISO, 10(-6) M) (in the presence of IFN-gamma) for an additional three hours. The effect of IFN-gamma alone on the pineal function was also tested by adding another group incubated with IFN-gamma (1,000 antiviral units/ml) without ISO stimulation. The following parameters were estimated at the end of the incubation: the activities of N-acetyltransferase (NAT) and hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT), the levels of melatonin, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT), and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5HIAA), and the 5HT/5HIAA ratio. IFN-gamma had no effect on either NAT or HIOMT activities in the pineal glands. At 50 units/ml, IFN-gamma increased the melatonin content over the ISO-stimulated level in the pineal but not in the media. IFN-gamma alone, at 1,000 units/ml, also increased the melatonin content significantly over the control level. The levels of 5HTP and 5HIAA were significantly suppressed by IFN-gamma, either alone or in combination with ISO. The level of 5HT was not altered by any of the treatments. The 5HT/5HIAA ratio was significantly increased by IFN-gamma, either when given alone or when given in combination with ISO. The results suggest that IFN-gamma enhances melatonin production in the pineal gland by suppressing the oxidative deamination of 5HT to 5HIAA and shunting the biosynthetic pathway toward melatonin production.
AmiC Functions as an N-Acetylmuramyl-l-Alanine Amidase Necessary for Cell Separation and Can Promote Autolysis in Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is prone to undergo autolysis under many conditions not conducive to growth. The role of autolysis during gonococcal infection is not known, but possible advantages for the bacterial population include provision of nutrients to a starving population, modulation of the host immune response by released cell components, and donation of DNA for natural transformation. Biochemical studies indicated that an N-acetylmuramyl-l-alanine amidase is responsible for cell wall breakdown during autolysis. In order to better understand autolysis and in hopes of creating a nonautolytic mutant, we mutated amiC, the gene for a putative peptidoglycan-degrading amidase in N. gonorrhoeae. Characterization of peptidoglycan fragments released during growth showed that an amiC mutant did not produce free disaccharide, consistent with a role for AmiC as an N-acetylmuramyl-l-alanine amidase. Compared to the wild-type parent, the mutant exhibited altered growth characteristics, including slowed exponential-phase growth, increased turbidity in stationary phase, and increased colony opacity. Thin-section electron micrographs showed that mutant cells did not fully separate but grew as clumps. Complementation of the amiC deletion mutant with wild-type amiC restored wild-type growth characteristics and transparent colony morphology. Overexpression of amiC resulted in increased cell lysis, supporting AmiC's purported function as a gonococcal autolysin. However, amiC mutants still underwent autolysis in stationary phase, indicating that other gonococcal enzymes are also involved in this process.
Coalitional politics, economic reform, and technological upgrading in Malaysia

Summary Many attribute Malaysia’s admirable economic growth to liberal economic policies. However, this view ignores the way coalitional politics often drove illiberal government intervention in the economy to correct ethnically based economic inequality, create national heavy industries, and favor politically well-connected entrepreneurs. A more nuanced analysis reveals a complex mix of liberal and illiberal economic policies designed to balance competing coalitional interests. These policies led to rapid economic growth sufficient to support redistributive politics. Yet they also retarded technological development, leaving Malaysia mired in mediocrity: neither price competitive with China nor technologically competitive with Singapore, the East Asian NICs, or the OECD countries.
A review of supportive psychotherapy, 1986-1992.

In 1986 a review of literature on individual supportive therapy concluded that although many clinicians had a low regard for this treatment approach, it should be taken more seriously. In this paper the author reviews the literature on supportive therapy from 1986 to 1992 to determine whether it has received increased attention. Methods: MEDLINE and PsycINFO data bases were used. Studies were chosen based on their relevance to supportive psychotherapy and quality of scholarship. Results and conclusions: The quantity and quality of writing reflect heightened interest in supportive psychotherapy during the past six years. It is now securely ensconced in psychodynamic theory, and many clinicians have agreed on strategies and techniques. They include strengthening the therapeutic alliance, environmental interventions, education, advice and suggestion, encouragement and praise, limit setting and prohibitions, undermining maladaptive defenses while strengthening adaptive defenses, and emphasis on strengths and ...
Care and Management of Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Individuals with Schizophrenia and Type 2 Diabetes Who Smoke

Objective We sought to determine whether individuals with schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes who smoke were being monitored and treated for modifiable risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.
A General Course in Traveling Waves

Traveling waves must be considered whenever the time for a disturbance to propagate from one place to another is important. A course with this as its theme has been developed to replace the usual course in transmission lines or distributed constant circuits. Emphasis is placed on the transmission line as a teaching vehicle, but plane waves in space; vibrating strings and membranes; acoustic waves in gases, liquids and solids; heat conduction; and chemical diffusion are also treated. The analogies between the "telegraphers' equations" and comparable equations describing nonelectrical phenomena are stressed. Transients are treated for two special cases: 1) lossless lines and acoustics, and 2) diffusion and heat transfer. Steady state analysis using phasors and the Smith Chart is applied to plane electromagnetic and acoustic waves at all angles of incidence, as well as to the transmission line. Spherical acoustic waves are treated briefly.
Uterine excitability and distensibility influenced by treatment in vitro with progesterone

Abstract Myometrial strips excised from rabbits at day 25 or 26 of pregnancy develop the same level of active isometric tension as those obtained at parturition when tetanized under optimal conditions in Ca++-replete medium. When Ca++ is selectively removed from the medium, active tension decays and the rate of this uncoupling reflects the progestational state of the myometrium. Strips from pregnancy which are under the influence of progesterone display a resistance to uncoupling relative to the rapid rate of uncoupling of the uterine strips obtained at term. It has been proposed that the progesterone-influenced uterus possesses a pool of Ca++-binding sites in the sarcolemma and that this reserve of Ca++ protects the strip from the uncoupling effects of removing the ion from the bathing medium. This expression of the action of the steroid can be predictably altered by incubating uterine strips in culture medium with or without added progesterone. In the absence of added steroid, the strips metabolize the endogenous progesterone and the rate of uncoupling is accelerated over the course of a few hours. Resistance to uncoupling is maintained by near physiological concentrations of progesterone in the medium. The effect of incubation without added progesterone can subsequently be reversed by delayed exposure to the steroid. The reversal process displays a 2–4 hour latency but is complete by 6 hours. This action of progesterone can be mimicked by exposure of the strips to cycloheximide or actinomycin D. The rapidity of action of these agents in establishing high resistance to uncoupling is cycloheximide > actinomycin D > progesterone. Progesterone appears to maintain high resistance to uncoupling by a tonic inhibition of transcriptional events that would otherwise lead to the sarcolemmal changes normally associated with the inhibition of labor. Steroid treatments imposed in vitro also alter resting length-tension relationships in myometrial strips. During mid to late pregnancy, the strips are very distensible and contrast with the relatively indistensible strip collected at parturition. Strips obtained during days 21 – 29 of pregnancy then incubated without progesterone acquire the indistensible properties of strips taken at parturition. Exposure to progesterone in vitro maintains distensibility but this action is progressively overcome in a dose-related fashion by incubation with bacterial collagenase. These findings indicate that changes in the organization of the collagen in the uterine strips markedly affect distensibility and suggest that progesterone may act to inhibit collagenolysis. Distensibility can be maintained by exposure to porcine relaxin in vitro , despite the absence of progesterone. The results suggest that hormonally-controlled changes in the myometrial connective tissue may contribute to the characteristic changes in the properties of the uterus attending the initiation of labor.
Effects of Simvastatin on Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers and Cognition in Middle-Aged Adults at Risk for Alzheimer's Disease

Background: Statins reduce amyloid-β (Aβ) levels in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in animals and may thereby favorably alter the pathobiology of AD. It is unclear if statins modify Aβ metabolism or improve cognition in asymptomatic middle-aged adults at increased risk for AD. Methods: In a 4-month randomized, double-blind, controlled study, we evaluated the effects of simvastatin 40 mg daily vs. placebo on CSF Aβ42 levels and cognition in 57 asymptomatic middle-aged adult children of persons with AD. Results: Compared to placebo, individuals randomized to simvastatin for 4 months had similar changes in CSF Aβ42 (p = 0.344) and total tau levels (p = 0.226), yet greater improvements in some measures of verbal fluency ( p = 0.024) and working memory (p = 0.015). APOE4 genotype, gender, and vascular risk factors were associated with CSF biomarker levels, but did not modify treatment effects. Conclusion: In asymptomatic middle-aged adults at increased risk for AD, simvastatin use improved selected measures of cognitive function without significantly changing CSF A β42 or total tau levels. Further studies are needed to clarify the impact of higher dose and/or longer duration statin therapy on not only Aβ metabolism, but also other preclinical processes related to the development of AD.
Synaptic depression via mGluR1 positive allosteric modulation suppresses cue-induced cocaine craving

Cue-induced cocaine craving is a major cause of relapse in abstinent addicts. In rats, cue-induced craving progressively intensifies (incubates) during withdrawal from extended-access cocaine self-administration. After ~1 month of withdrawal, incubated craving is mediated by Ca(2+)-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) that accumulate in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). We found that decreased mGluR1 surface expression in the NAc preceded and enabled CP-AMPAR accumulation. Thus, restoring mGluR1 transmission by administering repeated injections of an mGluR1 positive allosteric modulator (PAM) prevented CP-AMPAR accumulation and incubation, whereas blocking mGluR1 transmission at even earlier withdrawal times accelerated CP-AMPAR accumulation. In studies conducted after prolonged withdrawal, when CP-AMPAR levels and cue-induced craving are high, we found that systemic administration of an mGluR1 PAM attenuated the expression of incubated craving by reducing CP-AMPAR transmission in the NAc to control levels. These results suggest a strategy in which recovering addicts could use a systemically active compound to protect against cue-induced relapse.
Iterative methods for non‐classically damped dynamic systems

Non-classically damped structural systems do not easily lend themselves to the modal superposition method because these systems yield coupled second-order differential equations. In this paper, a variety of new computationally efficient iterative methods for determining the response of such systems are developed. The iterative approaches presented here differ from those presented earlier in that they are computationally superior and/or are applicable to the determination of the responses of broader classes of structural systems. Numerical examples, which are designed to evaluate the efficacy of these schemes, show the vastly improved rates of convergence when compared to earlier iterative schemes.
Surgical resection of metastatic intraventricular tumors

The ventricle is a rare site of brain metastases. Renal cell carcinoma has a higher propensity to metastasize to the ventricle compared with more common metastatic tumors (e.g., lung cancer). The trigone is the predominant location for intraventricular metastases, presumably because of the high concentration of choroid plexus in this region. Surgical resection is an important component of the management of these lesions, particularly if there is only a single intraventricular lesion. Despite the deep location of these tumors within the ventricle, survival in patients undergoing surgery for them is comparable to that in patients receiving surgery for intraparenchymal metastases.
Mapping invasive plants using hyperspectral imagery and Breiman Cutler classifications (RandomForest)

Invasive nonindigenous plants are threatening the biological integrity of North American rangelands, as well as the economies that are supported by those ecosystems. Spatial information is critical to fulfilling invasive plant management strategies. Traditional invasive plant mapping has utilized ground-based hand or GPS mapping. The shortfalls of ground-based methods include the limited spatial extent covered and the associated time and cost. Mapping vegetation with remote sensing covers large spatial areas and maps can be updated at an interval determined by management needs. The objective of the study was to map leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) and spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa Lam.) using 128-band hyperspectral (5-m and 3-m resolution) imagery and assess the accuracy of the resulting maps. Beiman Cutler classifications (BCC) were used to classify the imagery using the randomForest package in the R statistical program. BCC builds multiple classification trees by repeatedly taking random subsets of the observational data and using random subsets of the spectral bands to determine each split in the classification trees. The resulting classification trees vote on the correct classification. Overall accuracy was 84% for the spotted knapweed classification, with class accuracies ranging from 60% to 93%; overall accuracy was 86% for the leafy spurge classification, with class accuracies ranging from 66% to 93%. Our results indicate that (1) BCC can achieve substantial improvements in accuracy over single classification trees with these data and (2) it might be unnecessary to have separate accuracy assessment data when using BCC, as the algorithm provides a reliable internal estimate of accuracy.
NESTING ECOLOGY OF SALTMARSH SHARP-TAILED SPARROWS IN A TIDALLY RESTRICTED SALT MARSH

We investigated population size, nest success, and nest-site characteristics of Saltmarsh Sharptailed Sparrows (Ammodramus caudacutus) from 1993 to 1998 in a salt marsh near Galilee, Rhode Island. From 1956 to 1997, tidal flow was restricted in the marsh by construction of a road with small culverts, which resulted in conversion of the marsh from short- and tall-form cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and marsh hay (S. patens) to one dominated by >5 m tall common reed (Phragmites australis). In fall 1997, self-regulating tide gates were installed to restore the historic tidal regime and vegetation. We documented declines in adult sparrow population sizes (17–25% annual decline) and productivity (48% annual decline) while the tidal regime was restricted. Nest success was variable (10–83%) before 1998, with predators accounting for most nest losses. Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows usually nested in marsh hay, short-form cordgrass, and short common reed. After restoration, sparrows nested where vegetation was taller, which permitted greater nest elevation. However, 91% of nests failed due to flooding following installation of new tide gates. We hypothesize that restoration efforts will have short-term negative impacts on Saltmarsh Sharptailed Sparrow populations until salt marsh habitats are restored in higher sections of the marsh.
Biomarkers in the HPA axis and inflammatory pathways for suicidal behavior in youth.

Objective: Describe the specific and common etiology of the CAR, awakening and cortisol change occurring from morning to evening in an age-homogenous sample of adolescents. Methods: More than 500 participants of the Quebec Newborn Twin Study, a representative 1995–1998 cohort of families with twins in Canada, collected saliva at awakening, 30min later, at the end of afternoon and in the evening over four collection days. Results:Multivariate Choleskymodel showed both specific and common sources of variance between the CAR, awakening and cortisol diurnal change. The CAR had the strongest heritability (50%) which, for the most part, did not overlap with the other indicators. Conversely, awakening and diurnal change showed similar genetic and environmental contributions (A= .28, C= .15, E= .57; A= .31, C= .20, E= .49, respectively) of which all partially overlapped. Conclusion:Our study extends previous findings by unravelling differences between the latent etiologies of the CAR and the rest of the diurnal cycle, enlightening the search of the genes and environments that are at play and the mechanisms relating these factors to physical and mental health.
Student-Based Indicators of Campus Satisfaction as an Outcome of Higher Education

Study identified major predictors of student satisfaction. Student ratings may be used to locate problems and implement decision-oriented solutions within a college.
A comparison of Wisconsin instrumentation and Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation

Twenty-six patients who underwent Wisconsin instrumentation and 36 patients who underwent Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation (CDI) for idiopathic scoliosis were studied. Inclusion in the study required at least 24-month follow-up. Variables compared included operating time, blood loss, frontal plane correction, axial and sagittal plane changes, effects on compensation, and complications. In general, operating time, blood loss, and instrumentation problems were greater with CDI. Thoracic curve correction in King II curves was better with CDI. There was no advantage to either system with respect to sagittal plane alignment or rotation. When all factors were considered, a significant advantage to use of CDI could not be demonstrated.
Dynamic Muscle Modeling via Spectral Electromyography

The current method of using processed EMG has certain limitations when one attempts to study the muscle behavior during continuous motions. In addition, since it ignores several useful information in the raw EMG signal, it was felt that these lost information may be the key to better understanding of the muscle behavior. Studies have shown that spectral Electromyography retains such useful information and have speculated that spectral EMG might provide better knowledge of the muscle activity. This study shows that the spectral EMG is sensitive to the changes in external torque and the joint velocity but not to the changes in the sampling area. The effect of performing submaximal tasks during dynamic conditions on the muscle effort is also explained by using an agonistic-antagonistic muscle model based on spectral EMG.
APPLICATIONS OF FIBER OPTIC STRAIN SENSOR IN ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL SMART STRUCTURE

A smalt structare is defined as a strucks system whosegeometric condgUration or inherent characterishcs can be malled inasponse to envbozunental changes. When a tunable Pdsct based onelecbotheological behavior with the sensory and control capabilitiesis implemented, the result is a Smart structure. Polarimetric, singleace and lutegrating fiber optic sensors have ceylon advantages overconvenhonal sensors so they can be used as optimal sensing system/elements in an electrorheological structure. The progress is reviewedand some potential in the future is discussed.
Remarks on the Freedom of Information Act: The 'National Security' Exemption in a Post 9/11 Era

As the United States responds to the challenge of domestic and international terrorism, it is confronted with the issue of whether disclosure of federal information benefits the citizenry to the detriment of other equally important interests such as national security and foreigh policy. Part I of this article will briefly examine the statutes and executive orders that govern federal information disclosure. Part II will discuss how federal courts have interpreted federal information disclosure in reference to national security and foreign policy. Part III will examine the impact of 9/11 on current federal information disclosure policy.
Synthesis and properties of polyurethane- unsaturated polyester IPNs of different molecular weights

A series of different molecular weight linear hydroxyl- terminated unsaturated polyester resins( UP) were synthesized by controlling the excess diol ratio. The polyurethane( PU) modified UP interpenetrating network materials( PUUP- IPN,referred to IPN) were formed by free- radical polymerization and reaction of hydroxyl groups of UP resins and PU prepolymer. The molecular structures of UP resins and IPN materials were characterized by infrared spectroscopy. The effect of glycol excessive proportion on the unsaturated resin molecular weight were investigated by the gel permeation chromatography and hydroxyl titration. The results were consistent. The effect of UP molecular weight on the mechanical properties and thermal stability of IPN materials was studied. The results showed that the thermal stability of IPN was improved after reinforcing modification by PU. The flexural strength and modulus of low molecular weight IPN material were higher and flexural strain was smaller. The toughness of high molecular weight UPs and their IPN specimens were significantly improved.