cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sustained attention in patients receiving and abstinent following methadone maintenance treatment for opiate dependence: performance and neuroimaging results.

Abstract Objective Impairments in the function of attention exacerbate the course of opiate dependence and may play a role in the relapsing nature of the disorder. This study used clinical measures and positron emission tomography (PET) to assess the functioning of sustained attention in subjects with a history of opiate dependence. Methods A test of auditory sustained attention was administered to 10 subjects receiving methadone maintenance treatment, 13 formerly opiate-dependent subjects in protracted abstinence, and 14 healthy Comparison subjects. Simultaneous measurement of regional glucose metabolism was made by [ 18 F] flourodeoxyglucose PET. Subjects groups were compared on the measures of sustained attention and regional cerebral glucose metabolism. Results Healthy Comparison subjects scored significantly better than either methadone-maintained or abstinent former opiate addicts on measures of sustained attention. Formerly opiate-dependent subjects in protracted abstinence scored better than methadone-maintained subjects on sustained attention. Methadone-maintained subjects demonstrated a relative reduction in regional cerebral glucose metabolism in the right supramarginal gyrus, and the thalamus bilaterally. The Comparison subjects without a history of opiate dependence demonstrated a relative increase in regional cerebral glucose metabolism in the right anterior cingulate gyrus, the right medial superior frontal gyrus and the thalamus bilaterally. Conclusions Subjects with a history of opiate dependence have impairments in the functioning of sustained attention, and abnormalities in brain regions identified as important in attention processing. Impairments in attention performance persist in subjects who enjoy prolonged abstinence from opiates.
Imaging the Disassembly of Syntxin Cluster during the Exocytosis of Single Secretory Granules

During the exocytosis of synaptic vesicles or of secretory granules, three so-called SNARE proteins mediate membrane fusion. One of the SNARE proteins, Syntaxin (Syx) is known to reside in the plasma membrane. Our previous work has shown that Syx makes a submicron size cluster where a granule docks at the plasma membrane. By labeling Syx clusters and granules in different colors, we now show that the Syx cluster disassembles when the adjacent granule undergoes exocytosis.As a model system, we used Ins-1 cells, a cell line derived from pancreatic beta cells. Cells expressed tissue plasminogen activator-EGFP (tPA-EGFP) to mark granules in green, and Syx-mCherry to mark Syx in red. Cells were voltage clamped in the whole-cell mode and exocytisis was evoked by depolarizing pulse. Exocytosis of single granules was observed with TIRF. Some granules (“responders”) brightened suddenly, as their exocytosis caused the release of protons and the de-quenching of tPA-EGFP. Other granules remained quiescent and served as controls (non-responders). The fluorescence of Syx-mCherry was measured at the same times and locations as that of the granules. Before exocytosis, the Syx-mCherry signal was significantly brighter beneath responders than beneath non-responders. This is consistent with the idea that syntaxin nanodomains facilitate exocytosis. After exocytosis, the Syx-mCherry signal beneath responders diminished, while no large change occurred for non-responders. Some “responders” were not visible before fusion, suggesting that they were located apart from the plasma membrane. Even for such granules, Syx-mCherry signal was observed before exocytosis and diminished after exocytosis. These results indicate that Syx clusters beneath granules are an advantage for exocytosis but then disassembled at the time of granule fusion.
Financial Crises, Japan's State Regime Shift, and Tokyo's Urban Policy:

The 2008 global financial crisis, a major crisis in the history of capitalist development, has called for drastic state activism and market regulation and may lead to state regime shift in many parts of the world. Relying upon John Maynard Keynes's crisis theory, that slumps were always possible in a market system left to itself, and that there was therefore a continuous role for government in ensuring that they did not happen, I look at the case of Japan's state regime shift which two previous financial crises have enabled. I argue that the 1989 crisis catalyzed Japan's developmental state's transition to a new direction and the 2008 global crisis continued to push ongoing shift further. I focus on state and Tokyo's urban policies which played a pivotal role in state regime shift, and assess why state and urban policies have failed to resolve Japan's contribution to global imbalances and avoidance of further crises. I conclude that state and urban policy analysis in the past few decades cannot be dissoci...
Communes and communitarianism

The social ills of our time are compounded of many things: they defy simple analysis and invite polemic. There are classic contradictions in the record: the increasing size of our organizations and the impersonality and irresponsibility of authority, clashes with our traditions of individual liberty leading to escalating assertions on both sides-and strong feelings of alienation and loss of identity. In the 1960's self-assertion had a brave and nostalgic quality, as people moved by the thousands into little groups, seeking autonomy and identity in their occupations, sex, books, drugs, crafts, religion, and recreation. By the 1970's the increasingly strident demands of their members for the right to do what they want made it seem that American society (and certainly British and to an increasing extent every industrial society) consisted entirely of people presenting nonnegotiable demands with no regard for the scarcity principle or the rights of others. Vine deLoria Jr. exemplifies the moods: his assertion of group autonomy for the Amerinds in the 1960's was an act of forthright liberalism; by the 1970's his proposals for a new federated America with absolute guarantees for minority group autonomy had an anarchic, anti-social sound. (Is there any such thing as American society?)
Protective effect of melatonin on 3‐nitropropionic acid‐induced oxidative stress in synaptosomes in an animal model of Huntington's disease

: The effect of melatonin (1 mg/kg BW i.p./day) on the oxidative changes produced by 3-nitropropionic acid (20 mg/kg BW/day for 4 days) in rat striatal and cortical synaptosomes was investigated. The effects of 3-nitropropionic acid were evaluated as changes in the quantity of lipid peroxidation products, protein carbonyl groups and superoxide dismutase and succinate dehydrogenase activities. 3-Nitropropionic acid caused a rise in lipid peroxidation levels and protein carbonyls content whereas it induced a reduction in the activity of succinate dehydrogenase and triggered an enhancement in superoxide dismutase activity. These changes were prevented by previous administration of melatonin. Our results reveal: (i) 3-nitropropionic acid induces a status of oxidative stress in some brain regions of the Wistar rat; (ii) melatonin prevents the deleterious effects induced by the acid. In conclusion, the results show the ability of melatonin to modify the neural response to 3-nitropropionic acid with the protective mechanism likely involving the antioxidative processes of melatonin.
Can We Explain Airport Performance? A Case Study of Selected New York Airports using a Stochastic Frontier Model

This paper uses stochastic frontier models to assess whether technical efficiency at Newark Liberty International, New York John F. Kennedy International, and New York LaGuardia airports improved from June to August 2008 compared with the summers of 2000 and 2007. An airport is efficient if it can handle operations on-time by minimizing overall demand and maximizing available airport capacity. Granger-causality tests determined the factors that may cause changes in key components and indicators of airport performance. Compared with the other airports, JFK experienced the greatest improvement in technical efficiency. The Granger-causality tests stressed the significance of airport operations and en route factors in supporting efficiency.
Apprehension of pictorial events: The case of a moving observer in a static environment

Slides of views along a walk through a campus were shown to observers. One week later, some of these slides, plus new views from the walk and similar control slides, were presented for confidence-weighted recognition judgments. Appropriate new scenes but not controls were falsely recognized with high frequency and confidence. Strength of these recognitions relative to those of slides actually shown earlier depended on the observer’s familiarity with the campus and the order of slides in the original presentation. Results are interpreted in terms of the apprehension of events on the basis of information available in the relations among discrete scenes.
Catalytic palladium-mediat≐d tetraene carbocyclizations: Enamine trapping reagents

Abstract The palladium-catalyzed carbocyclization of a tetraene substrate in the presence of an enamine effects efficient cyclization of the substrate with concomitant formation of a second carbon-carbon bond via allylation of the enamine. A brief survey of the roles of the reaction medium, ligand, enamine reagent, and to a lesser extent the substrate and palladium catalyst in determining the catalytic efficiency, mode-selectivity, and stereoselectivity of the cyclization is described. In one example, indole is shown to also function as an efficient trapping reagent.
Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes in cancer.

Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes and other genes functionally important in the neoplastic process is a recently recognized process. This epigenetic process is characterized by loss of function of these genes associated with transcriptional loss in the absence of structural alterations. The growing list of genes inactivated by promoter region hypermethylation provide an opportunity to examine the patterns of inactivation of such genes and provide clues as to the roles these events play in the neoplastic process.
Long-term effect of perfluorocarbon distension on the lung.

Abstract Background/Purpose: We have demonstrated previously that postnatal lung growth can be accelerated by continuous intrapulmonary distension with perfluorocarbon (PFC). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of PFC distension on long-term lung function and to determine if shorter periods of lung distension would be sufficient to stimulate growth. Methods: Eight neonatal lambs underwent a right thoracotomy. The superior segment of the right upper lobe of the experimental group (n = 5) was isolated and distended with PFC to an intrabronchial pressure of 7 to 10 mm Hg. The inferior segment was removed. After a 7-day distension period (the maximum period of exposure currently allowed for humans), the experimental animals underwent removal of the intrabronchial catheter and surgical closure of the bronchial stump. Control animals (n = 3) underwent right upper lobe inferior segmentectomy alone. Animals were allowed to breathe spontaneously and reach 3 to 6 months of age. Before death, all animals were evaluated by chest radiographs and ventilation-perfusion scans. Pulmonary venous blood gas levels were obtained. Lungs were harvested and airway fixed for morphometric analysis. Results: Chest radiographs of the experimental group showed variable amounts of intrapleural and interstitial PFC but were otherwise normal. Results of ventilation/perfusion (VQ) scans of all experimental animals were normal. On retrieval, the right upper lobe of experimental animals appeared slightly hyperinflated compared with controls. Right upper lobe pulmonary vein Pao 2 to left pulmonary vein Pao 2 ratio was comparable in experimental and control animals (1.2 ± .41 v 0.92 ± .15). DNA to protein ratios were slightly higher in the right upper lobes of experimental animals, however, the difference was not statistically significant (.64 ± .11 v .42 ± .03). On histological evaluation, the airway epithelium and alveoli of the right upper lobe of experimental animals appeared normal. Lung morphometry results showed no statistically significant differences in alveloar number between experimental and control animals. Conclusions: From these preliminary data we conclude that (1) lung architecture is preserved in juvenile animals subjected to intrapulmonary PFC distension as neonates, (2) lung function is preserved in the lobar segment after PFC distension, and (3) intrapulmonary PFC distension appears to be safe at 3 to 6 months follow-up. However, 7 days of PFC distension is insufficient to promote lung growth.
The Pure Symmetric Automorphisms of a Free Group Form a Duality Group

Abstract The pure symmetric automorphism group of a finitely generated free group consists of those automorphisms which send each standard generator to a conjugate of itself. We prove that these groups are duality groups.
ROLE OF MYOFILAMENTS AND CALCIUM HANDLING IN LEFT VENTRICULAR RELAXATION

Myocardial relaxation is governed by the interplay of two macromolecular systems: (1) myofilaments and (2) calcium extruding pumps/exchangers. In myocardium from failing hearts, both systems act more slowly than normal, and cause relaxation to decelerate, which may impede early rapid filling and can often limit cardiac pumping ability--especially during exercise. Gene-based therapy to augment sluggish SERCA pumps is a possibility being currently investigated in research laboratories. In normal myocardium, the rate of dissociation of myosin crossbridges sets the rate of relaxation. In this case, relaxation is characterized by two features: (1) load-dependence and (2) displacement-dependence. Load-dependence derives from cooperative mechanisms acting among ensembles of crossbridges and myofilament regulatory proteins (troponin, tropomyosin); it allows contraction to be prolonged when more crossbridges are attached and mutually support each other. The rate of relaxation can still be rapid, however, as this cooperative system begins to collapse. Displacement-dependence is more important later in contraction, because tenuous crossbridge attachments cannot easily re-form after being disrupted when myofilaments slide along each other. Myofilaments control normal relaxation because the calcium extruding systems reduce calcium to near diastolic levels relatively early; however, when the relative timing of crossbridge dissociation versus calcium sequestration is altered, and calcium uptake is slowed (relative to crossbridges), then removal of calcium can become rate limiting instead. In this case, load- and displacement-dependence are less marked. Both the timing of calcium removal and the sensitivity of the myofilaments to calcium affect relaxation timing.
Hot Electrons in SiO2: Ballistic and Steady-State Transport

One of the strongest impacts of the Very-Large-Scale-Integration (VLSI) on fundamental physics we have been witnessing in recent years is the revival of activities aimed to better understand the properties of electron transport in crystals. For many years the basic “semiconductor equations” (that is: the standard “Drift-Diffusion” coupled to the Poisson equation) have helped engineers to design semiconductor devices which have changed our lives in quite a remarkable way. Only in the past decade or so, with the shrinkage of the device dimensions towards a scale approaching the mean-free-path (or even De Broglie wavelength) of electrons in semiconductors, have we begun feeling the need for more realistic solutions of the Boltzmann-transport-equation (BTE). Hence, the present “golden age” of Monte Carlo simulations, of the “hot-electron”, “high-field” problem, of the efforts to reach fully coupled an self-consistent Poisson-Schrodinger-Monte Carlo description of small devices which we see flooding the scientific literature today.
Inactivation of bacterial and viral indicators in secondary sewage effluents, using chlorine and ozone

The inactivation rates of indigenous populations of fecal coliforms, enterococci, Clostridium perfringens, male-specific bacteriophage and somatic coliphage in secondary sewage effluents were compared using chlorine and ozone as disinfecting agents. The fecal coliform indicator was evaluated for its reliability to index viral responses to chlorine and ozone treatments in fecally polluted effluents. Effluents were collected from several wastewater treatment plants during a variety of meteorological conditions and exhibited a wide range in quality. In chlorinated effluent, a greater than 100-fold reduction in both fecal coliform and enterococci densities was observed. However, densities of the two bacteriophage groups were generally reduced less than 10-fold. In contrast, ozone treatments resulted in the inactivation of bacterial viruses, with more than 100-fold reductions of male-specific and somatic bacteriophage densities. The elimination of vegetative bacteria was less dramatic in ozonated effluents with less than a 30-fold reduction in the densities of both of these indicators. C. perfringens was relatively insensitive to inactivation by either disinfectant; populations of this indicator were stable for prolonged contact periods. These findings demonstrate that the fecal coliform indicator is inadequate for predicting viral responses to chlorine or ozone treatments. Ozone contact time and residual concentrations were increased appreciably in later trials to further determine the sensitivities of fecal coliforms and enterococci to this treatment. However, increasing these parameters, alone or in concert, did not enhance the rates at which vegetative bacterial populations declined.
A Model of the Formation of Spiral Galaxies

It has been verified that the analytical results derived in a previous article for elliptical galaxies may also be used to describe spiral galaxies. Exploration of the model for small values of the principal parameter θ yields surface mass density distributions as functions of radius which, while always displaying the exponential disk, describe both of the subcategories of spiral galaxies. Within the constraints of the model, the two main questions concerning spirals posed some years ago by Freeman appear to be successfully addressed.
Temporal patterns of matrix metalloproteinase-9 gene promoter induction and protein synthesis during thoracic aortic aneurysm progression

METHODS: This study created TAAs (15 min 0.5M CaCl2 exposure) in a unique mouse (CD-1 strain) construct in which the MMP-9 gene promoter was ligated to beta-galactosidase (B-gal) in all cells. These mice develop normally, but B-gal is produced as a function of MMP-9 transcriptional activity, allowing for quantification of MMP-9 transcriptional activity in situ. Measurements were performed at 1wk (n 5), 2wk (n 6), or 4wk (n 6) post-TAA induction. TAA size was defined as a percent change in aortic diameter from baseline (video micrometry). MMP-9 transcriptional activity (B-gal staining) and MMP-9 abundance (immunohistology) was quantified and expressed as a percent change from unoperated controls (n 6).
Chemical distinctions between acetylcholinesterase and the acetylcholine receptor

Preincubation with either p-chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB) or dithiothreitol was found to have no significant effect on the Km and μmax of acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine acetyl-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) under conditions similar to those which resulted in a strong inhibition of the response of the intact electroplax to acetylcholine and its congeners. It is argued that these results imply that the enzyme and the receptor for acetylcholine are separate proteins.
An isopiestic method for measurement of electrolyte activity coefficients

The need for greater efficiency and better water quality control in industrial plants has led to the development of process simulators for industrial water systems in recent years. The simulation of chemical equilibria in aqueous electrolyte systems was made possible by the work of others who have developed semi-empirical equations to predict activity coefficients in these solutions. These equations use single-component data along with interaction parameters to predict the behavior of mixtures. The development of accurate predictive equations for mixtures has been hindered by the lack of data on multicomponent solutions and single-component solutions at temperatures other than 25/sup 0/C. To obtain a desired accuracy in activity coefficient data from vapor pressure data, vapor pressure measurements must be obtained at a much higher degree of precision, as errors in vapor pressure measurement are amplified when converted to activity coefficients. One method capable of such accuracy for nonvolatile electrolytes is the isopiestic method. A modified isopiestic apparatus described herein allows visual determination of steady state and reduces the possibility of temperature gradients between solutions. Potassium chloride solutions were studied using NaCl as the reference solution. Vapor pressures determined with this apparatus were compared to the data of Robinson and Stokes (1965),more » giving an average absolute error of 0.008%. Pitzer's equation was fitted to the osmotic coefficient data, giving an average absolute error of 0.21% and standard deviation of 0.0009. The activity coefficients that were calculated from the experimental data compare favorably with those reported by others. The accuracy of the results obtained using the apparatus described demonstrates the temperature uniformity possible with a water bath.« less
A comparison of unidirectional and rotary metal evaporation shadowing by computer simulation

This work employs a Fortran program to simulate rotary shadowing, that is, metal evaporation deposits in which the substrate is rotating during the deposition process. The results are compared with computer simulations of unidirectional shadowing published in a previous paper. (See Colquhoun et al., 1985). The analysis shows that a substantial improvement in resolution is possible with rotary shadowing. The improved information retrieval amounts to ∼15% with a shadow angle of 33° and ∼37% with a shadow angle of 8°. Unidirectional shadowing results in a grain linearity; the computer simulations show that this undesirable effect is eliminated by the rotary process. These advantages of rotary shadowing are discussed along with the more straight forward interpretability of the rotary shadowed images. These advantages are weighed against the higher contrast generated by the unidirectional shadowing process.
Messenger RNA in the cellular commitment of Manduca sexta

Abstract RNA synthesized during the ecdysteroid-induced change of epidermal commitment in the tobacco hornworm has been investigated. Larvally and pupally committed cells do not show any qualitative differences in total RNA that can be detected on 7 M urea polyacrylamide gels. By contrast, analysis of proteins translated from RNA of larvally or pupally committed epidermis by a wheat germ S-30 cell-free system shows striking differences. Many more messengers disappear than appear during the change in commitment, the majority of changes being in relatively low-molecular-weight acidic proteins. A whole new class of messengers appears when pupal cuticle is being produced. The 28 S ribosomal RNA of Manduca was found to possess a “hidden break” similar to that described in other insect species.
EFFECT OF REMOVAL OF OVARIES AND ADRENALS ON OPENING OF THE VAGINA IN THE ALBINO RAT

FROM THE WELL-KNOWN ROLE of the estrogenic hormone in causing the vagina W to open in certain experimental animals, it may be inferred that the same factor is involved in normal animals. Since this occurs in ovariectomised rats at approximately the same stage of development as the normal, it becomes necessary to seek a source of estrogenic hormone outside of the ovary or to look for some Other cause. Several investigators (1, 2, 3) have found that adrenalectomy disturbs or suspends the estrous cycle in the rat. In cases of adreno-genital syndrome Simpson, de Fremery and Macbeth (4) reported an excessive excretion of the male hormone. Estrogenic substances were found in the blood and urine by Frank, Goldberger and Salmon (5) following surgical removal of the ovaries, physiological menopause, and x-ray castration. Parkes (6) has suggested that the adrenals may be the source of these hormones. In support of this Engelhart (7), and Callow and Parkes (8) have observed that extracts of the adrenal cortex contai...
Hyperoxaluria is a long-term consequence of Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass: a 2-year prospective longitudinal study

Background Recent studies suggest that patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for morbid obesity are at risk for hyperoxaluria, nephrolithiasis, and oxalate nephropathy. Our objective was to conduct a long-term prospective longitudinal study to establish the incidence, clinical progression, and severity of hyperoxaluria after RYGB. Study Design Patients undergoing RYGB between December 2005 and April 2007 provided 24-hour urine collections for comprehensive stone risk analysis 1 week before and 3 months and 1 and 2 years after surgery. Primary outcomes were changes in 24-hour urinary oxalate excretion and relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate from baseline to 2 years post-RYGB. Results The cohort consisted of 21 patients, including 5 (24%) men and 16 (76%) women. Mean preoperative age and body mass index (calculated as kg/m 2 ) were 48.2 ± 10.5 years (range 25 to 64 years) and 50.5 ± 9.1 (range 39.7 to 66.6), respectively. Urinary oxalate excretion increased significantly after RYGB (33 ± 9 mg/day versus 63 ± 29 mg/day; p ≤ 0.001). De novo hyperoxaluria developed in 11 (52%) patients. Increasing age at the time of surgery was predictive of de novo hyperoxaluria developing (odds ratio=1.162; 95% CI, 1.002–1.347; p=0.046). The percentage of patients with hypocitraturia increased from 10% at baseline to 48% at 2 years. The relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate was unchanged (1.73 ± 0.67 versus 2.20 ± 2.07; p=0.27). Conclusions RYGB is associated with a long-term increase in urinary oxalate excretion and decrease in urinary citrate excretion. Although calcium oxalate relative supersaturation increases early in the postoperative period, this returns to baseline with long-term follow-up. These data suggest that patients who have undergone RYGB are at risk for oxalate nephropathy developing.
An Improved Stiffness Model for Bolted Joints

An improved stiffness model is proposed for bolted joints made of similar and dissimilar plates. A novel approach is used to obtain an expression for the effective area used for determining the joint stiffness. More accurate estimate of the joint stiffness provides a more reliable prediction of the joint behavior both during its initial assembly, as well as under subsequently applied tensile loads in service. The effect of the grip length-to-diameter ratio, joint sizes, underhead contact radii ratio, hole clearance, and plate material/thickness ratio are investigated. Experimental data are used for determining the envelope angle a in the proposed analytical model. Finite element modeling is used for evaluating the accuracy of the proposed stiffness model.
Self-monitoring concrete

Self-monitoring of slight fatigue damage was demonstrated in cement mortar containing short carbon fibers (0.24 vol.%), as damage (occurring in the first less than or equal to 10% of the tensile or compressive fatigue life) caused the volume electrical resistivity to decrease irreversibly by up to 2%. The greater the stress amplitude, the greater the damage, the greater the resistivity decrease and the greater the number of stress cycles for which the resistivity decrease monotonically occurred. The resistivity decrease is attributed to the damage of the cement matrix separating adjacent fibers at their junction.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The art of Alice: adding a musical component

This paper presents an interdisciplinary General Education course that introduces students to music and animation through the use of various software applications. Active learning exercises combined with knowledge of programming concepts and music theory provide students with a challenging and creative learning environment. By integrating "behind-the-scene" logical components that are required for animations with music theory and music composition concepts needed for background music and special sound effects, students are able to produce musical animations in an Alice World.
Mouse Thymic Iso-antigens

Old, Boyse and Stockert reported the presence of a common iso-antigen (LT) in certain leukaemias of two strains of mice, and in thymus of only one of these strains and one unrelated strain1. Later, the LT iso-antigen was found in normal thymus of eight out of twenty-four strains2. The LT iso-antigen was not detected in the normal tissues examined other than thymus1,2.
Interdisciplinary health professional education in rural New Mexico: a 10 year experience

The New Mexico Rural Health Interdisciplinary Program was initiated in 1990 to meet the need for interdisciplinary health professional student training and to advance the recruitment and retention of health professionals in rural healthcare shortage areas. This paper describes the New Mexico programme, including its interdisciplinary problem-based learning format and mechanisms for generating community involvement, and reports the evaluation findings and lessons learned from 10 years of programme experience. The New Mexico programme utilizes student-centred, problem-based learning (PBL) as an educational format and currently involves 12 healthcare disciplines in six communities throughout the state. Evaluation has focused on differences in student attitudes about and confidence in interdisciplinary and rural practice prior to and upon completion of the programme, as well as change in student expectations of consulting with other health professionals. A pre-test/post-test survey was used to assess change. The growth of the programme provides some evidence of its success. Results indicate a consistent change in attitude of participants towards greater confidence to work in rural settings and with interdisciplinary teams and an increased expectation to consult with other healthcare professionals. The lessons of this 10 year training experience include the compatibility of PBL to an interdisciplinary training model, the importance of scheduling to facilitate optimal participation, the need for a dedicated core faculty, the worth of informal as well as formal interdisciplinary student interaction, the need to cultivate community relationships and support and the challenge of programme evaluation.
Oviposition Marking Behavior of Diachasma alloeum , (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Parasitizing Rhagoletis pomonella , (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Diachasma alloeum (Muesebeck) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a solitary larval endoparasitoid attacking Rhagoletis (Diptera: Tephritidae) species. Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) mark the surface of fruit after oviposition with an oviposition marking pheromone (OMP) which deters conspecific female flies. Herein we demonstrate that female D. alloeum wasps reared from either apple or hawthorn race R. pomenella larvae also deposit an OMP that reduces oviposition by conspecific female wasps. Significantly fewer wasps accepted fruit that had received prior wasp oviposition and OMP or OMP alone without oviposition compared with control fruit for a minimum of 7 days on both fruit types. Rinsing fruit with a 50% ethanol solution appeared to remove the OMP rendering fruit more acceptable for oviposition than marked fruit that was not rinsed. Wasps of each host race were able to detect and avoid the OMP of the sister race and fruit substrate type did not affect wasp response to the pheromone. The possibility of an internal marker deposited during oviposition is also discussed.
Social Policy and Mortality Decline in East Asia and Latin America

Abstract Since 1960, Chile and Costa Rica have improved life expectancy and infant survival as much as South Korea and Taiwan, despite growing more slowly, suffering more income poverty, and having more unequally distributed incomes. This paper analyzes the origins and impact of the publicly-funded social services that allowed Chile and Costa Rica to achieve rapid reductions in the risk of early death, despite relatively poor performance on income-related indicators; and explores how South Korea and Taiwan managed to achieve similar progress at reducing premature mortality, despite making less deliberate efforts to fund social services for the poor.
Characterization of neurosteroid effects on hyperpolarizing current at α4β2δ GABAA receptors

Rationale The neurosteroid 3α,5β-THP (3α-OH-5β-pregnan-20-one, pregnanolone) is a modulator of the GABAA receptor (GABAR), with α4β2δ GABARs the most sensitive. However, the effects of 3α,5β-THP at α4β2δ are polarity-dependent: 3α,5β-THP potentiates depolarizing current, as has been widely reported, but decreases hyperpolarizing current by accelerating desensitization.
The impact of state and federal assault weapons bans on public mass shootings

The purpose of the present study is to determine the effects of federal and state assault weapons bans on public mass shootings. Using a Poisson effect model and data for the period 1982 to 2011, it was found that both state and federal assault weapons bans have statistically significant and negative effects on mass shooting fatalities but that only the federal assault weapons ban had a negative effect on mass shooting injuries. This study is one of the first studies that looks solely at the effects of assault weapons bans on public mass shootings.
Compact polarimeters based on polarization-sensitive focal plane arrays

We report on the design, fabrication and performance of the Rochester Institute of Technology Polarization Imaging Camera (RITPIC). Despite great advances in astronomical (and terrestrial remote sensing) instrumentation, the measurement of polarization of light remains challenging and infrequent. Recently, the fabrication of micropolarizer arrays has allowed the development of compact polarimeters which promise to make polarimetry more accessible. These devices are capable of measuring the degree of polarization (DoP) and angle of polarization (AoP) across a scene using a single exposure (“snapshot”). They are compact, light-weight and mechanically robust, making them ideal for deployment on space-based platforms. We present the performance of such a polarimeter and describe the kind of science that is possible with RITPIC and future generations of these revolutionary devices.
Psychological interventions for rheumatoid arthritis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective To carry out a systematic review of the literature examining the efficacy of psychological interventions (e.g., relaxation, biofeedback, cognitive–behavioral therapy) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods Studies that met the following criteria were included: random assignment, wait-list or usual care control condition; publication in peer-reviewed journals; treatment that included some psychological component beyond simply providing education information; and separate data provided for patients with RA if subjects with conditions other than RA were included. Two investigators independently extracted data on study design, sample size and characteristics, type of intervention, type of control, direction and nature of the outcome(s). Results Twenty-five trials met the inclusion criteria. Methodologic quality was assessed, and effect sizes were calculated for 6 outcomes. Significant pooled effect sizes were found postintervention for pain (0.22), functional disability (0.27), psychological status (0.15), coping (0.46), and self efficacy (0.35). At followup (averaging 8.5 months), significant pooled effect sizes were observed for tender joints (0.33), psychological status (0.30), and coping (0.52). No clear or consistent patterns emerged when effect sizes for different types of treatment and control conditions were compared, or when higher quality trials were compared to lower quality ones. Findings do, however, suggest that these psychological interventions may be more effective for patients who have had the illness for shorter duration. Conclusions Despite some methodologic flaws in the literature, psychological interventions may be important adjunctive therapies in the medical management of RA.
Identification of velocity systems in the inner Orion Nebula

We have measured the properties of He I and Ca II optical absorption lines in the four Trapezium stars of M42 and Theta-exp-2 A Ori using CCD spectra of 3.3 km/s full width at half-maximum intensity (FWHM). A similar analysis was also done of previously published Na I spectra. Some lines are seen in all of the stars and others in as few as one. The 24 different line systems noted in specific ions are matched into 12 absorption velocity systems, three of which coincide with 21 cm H I absorption. Data from 20 different emission-line systems seen in a variety of ionization states are combined into eight emission-line velocity systems, one of which agrees with an absorption system. These data are combined to produce a line-of-sight model to M42, which has the special feature of identifying ionization fronts not only at the near side of the parent molecular cloud, but also on both sides of the neutral lid that overlies the optical nebula.
Computed tomography of sphenoid sinus tumors

Computed tomography (CT) accurately delineates the sphenoid sinus and its relationship to the rest of the cranial base, cranial tbssae, nasopharynx and orbits. Thus, the extent of a sphenoid sinus lesion can be clearly demonstrated. Superoinferior delineation is obtained by analyzing multiple adjacent sections. CT characterizes the lesions as to density, homogeniety and association of bony changes. This aids in the differential diagnosis.
Metabolic syndrome and mammographic density: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with an increase in breast cancer risk. In our study, we evaluated whether the MetS was associated with an increase in percent mammographic density (MD), a breast cancer risk factor. We used linear regression and mixed models to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of the MetS and components of the MetS to percent MD in 790 premenopausal and early perimenopausal women enrolled in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). In cross-sectional analyses adjusted for body mass index (BMI), modest inverse associations were observed between percent MD and the MetS [β = -2.5, standard error (SE) = 1.9, p = 0.19], abdominal adiposity (β = -4.8, SE = 1.9, p = 0.01) and raised glucose (β = -3.7, SE = 2.4, p = 0.12). In longitudinal models adjusted for covariates including age and BMI, abdominal adiposity (β = 0.34, SE = 0.17, p = 0.05) was significantly positively associated with slower annual decline in percent MD with time. In conclusion, our results do not support the hypothesis that the MetS increases breast cancer risk via a mechanism reflected by an increase in percent MD.
Predictors of human papillomavirus vaccination among daughters of low-income Latina mothers: the role of acculturation.

Abstract Purpose Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a safe and effective primary prevention strategy for cervical cancer. Little is known about correlates of HPV vaccination among Hispanic adolescents living in the United States. The purpose of this study was to (1) examine relationships between both U.S./American and Latina acculturation and variables typically associated with HPV vaccine uptake (e.g., physician recommendation); and (2) identify predictors of HPV vaccine uptake among daughters of Latina mothers. Methods Latina mothers (N = 200) recruited from a Federally Qualified Health Center serving low-income families in Florida completed a semistructured interview that assessed awareness of and knowledge about HPV and HPV-vaccines, vaccination beliefs, whether their daughter's physician had recommended the HPV vaccine, health history, U.S./American and Latina acculturation, mother and daughter demographics, and daughter's HPV vaccination status. Results Only 18% of daughters had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Higher levels of U.S./American acculturation were associated with greater odds of vaccine uptake and other common predictors of HPV vaccination (e.g., physician recommendation, vaccine awareness). A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified three independent predictors of vaccine uptake: physician recommendation, daughter's age, and low worry about how to pay for the vaccine. Conclusions Despite generally favorable views of HPV vaccination, observed rates of vaccine uptake in this sample were substantially lower than national estimates. Latina mothers who are more integrated into U.S. society may be more likely to vaccinate their daughters against HPV. Findings provide promising directions for future HPV vaccination interventions with Hispanic adolescents.
Efficient liquid chromatographic analysis of mono-, di-, and triglycerols using silver thiolate stationary phase.

Abstract We show that the characterization of mono-, di- and triglycerols can be readily accomplished by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with silver(I)-mercaptopropyl modified silica gel, or silver thiolate chromatographic material (AgTCM), which can be used with evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD) or atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectroscopy (APCI-MS). Separation of triglycerols varying by degrees of unsaturation and cis / trans configuration in common oil samples can be achieved using a simple linear gradient of hexane and acetone. In addition to double bonds, AgTCM also displays major selectivity for compounds with different levels of polarity, allowing for efficient separation between mono-, di- and triglycerols. In comparison to conventional reversed phase columns, AgTCM produces simple chromatograms for rapid assessment of degrees of unsaturation and the amount of trans fats in triglycerides, which are central issues to food quality determination. In comparison to previous silver-ion based HPLC separations, AgTCM–HPLC based column offers greatly enhanced stability, inertness, durability, and reproducibility allowing routine coupling of the HPLC with a mass spectrometer for detection.
Human nature and the first image: emotion in international politics

Analysts commonly view emotion as irrational, as part of human nature, and therefore as part of a first-image approach to politics. However, emotion is necessary to rationality and first-image and human nature arguments are not synonymous. A first-image explanation can be independent of human nature, and a human nature argument can be used at different levels-of-analysis. This essay first explores the relationship between emotion and rationality and breaks the literature on emotion down into four groups: as epiphenomenal, as a source of irrationality, as a tool for savvy strategic actors, and as a necessary aspect of rationality. After developing different approaches to emotion, the essay explores three uses of emotion at different levels-of-analysis.
Supernumerary nasal tooth in close proximity to a dental implant.

Supernumerary nasal teeth (SNT) are a rare phenomenon. Supernumerary teeth occur in 0.1 to 1% of the population. They are most commonly found in the upper incisor area, when they are known as mesiodentes. They also are fairly common elsewhere on the intraoral palate and in the maxillary sinus. Nasal teeth are quite rare, with only case reports and small case series found in the literature. SNT can present with different symptoms, including unilateral nasal obstruction, nasal drainage, and infections, or they can be asymptomatic and found incidentally. This report describes a case of a nasal tooth in close proximity to a noninfected dental implant that became symptomatic with unilateral nasal obstruction. The diagnosis was based on endoscopic and radiologic findings, and the patient’s symptoms resolved after endoscopic surgical removal of the tooth through the nasal cavity.
Compression, Heating and Fusion of Colliding Plasmoids by a Z-theta Driven Plasma Liner

A potentially promising approach to fusion employs a plasma shell to radially compress two colliding plasmoids. The presence of the magnetic field in the target plasma suppresses the thermal transport to the confining shell, thus lowering the imploding power needed to compress the target to fusion conditions. With the momentum flux being delivered by an imploding plasma shell, many of the difficulties encountered in imploding a solid metal liner are eliminated or minimized. The best plasma for the target in this approach is the FRC. It has demonstrated both high β, and robustness in translation and compression that is demanded for the target plasma. A high density compressed plasmoid is formed by a staged axial and radial compression of two colliding/merging FRCs where the energy that is required for the implosion compression and heating of the magnetized target plasmoid is stored in the kinetic energy of the plasmas used to compress it. An experimental apparatus is being constructed for the demonstration of both the target plasmoid formation as well as the compression of the plasmoid by a plasma liner. It is believed that with the confinement properties and the high β nature of the FRC, combined with the unique approach to be taken, that an nτE T i triple product ∼5 × 1017 m−3 s keV can be achieved.
A study of PBT/PC blends by modulated DSC and conventional DSC

Two poly(butylene terephthalate)/polycarbonate (PBT/PC) blends with different formulations were analyzed by modulated DSC (MDSC) and conventional DSC to determine differences in crystallization behavior. A significant difference (30°C in cold crystallization temperature) between the two samples was detectable by MDSC while no significant difference was seen by conventional DSC. That indicatesthe total heat flow from MDSC is not always equivalent to the heat flow from conventional DSC as we have assumed or seen before. The reason has not been fully understood, but may be related to unusual nucleation and crystallization induced by modulation. Alternative conventional DSC methods were developed and compared to the MDSC results.
Regulation of thyroid hormone receptor-mediated transcription by a cytosol protein.

Abstract Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) are members of the steroid hormone/retinoic acid receptor superfamily, which regulate homeostasis, development, and differentiation. Their transcriptional activity is modulated by the thyroid hormone 3,3',5-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3). The present study evaluated the effect of the availability of cytoplasmic T3 on the modulation of transcriptional responses of the TRs. In human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 and monkey COS-1 cells, the cytosolic thyroid hormone binding protein is a monomer of the tetrameric pyruvate kinase, subtype M2, which does not bind T3. The in vivo monomer-tetramer interconversion is regulated by glucose via fructose 1,6-bisphosphate. At the physiological T3 concentration, lowering the glucose concentration led to an increase in the cellular concentration of the cytosolic thyroid hormone binding protein. By using a transient transfection system, a concomitant reduction in the transcriptional activity of the human beta 1 thyroid hormone receptor was detected in both cell lines. In the absence of glucose, the transcriptional activity of the human beta 1 thyroid hormone receptor in JEG-3 and COS-1 cells was reduced by 65-75% and 90-95%, respectively. However, glucose had no effect on the basal transcriptional activity. These findings demonstrate an important prenuclear step in the modulation of the gene regulating activity of the TRs.