cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Intake Vortex Risk by Nearest Neighbors Modeling

Vortex formation at intakes can cause damage, clogging, reduced flow efficiency, and even loss of life. For practical prediction of vortex risk, engineers often compare expected design parameters with published data by using parameter proximity to evaluate the relative risk of vortex formation. Unfortunately, this procedure is ill-defined, and the resulting risk estimates are highly subjective. In response, a formal equivalent of the data proximity procedure was developed by implementing the nearest neighbors algorithm on available experimental and field data. This database was partitioned and the machine learning parameters adjusted to obtain a stochastic model with maximum predictive accuracy. Unlike the flow parameters and submergence, the approach geometry was not found to be a significant factor in the model, although this may be attributable to data noise and range of tested values. The final model, which excluded the channel approach geometry, fit all vertical intake vortex formation data to within 0.1% error and perfectly fit the horizontal intake data. Probability charts generated from the model show regions of vortex formation and problems more numerous and larger on average than regions of low vortex probability, thus validating consideration of potential vortex formation risk for conservative intake design.
Hot-carrier currents of SOI MOSFETs

MOSFETs built on the SOI structure exhibit superior short channel behaviors over the bulk MOSFETs. They also have other advantages such as reduction of the junction capacitance, radiation hardness and ease for device isolation. The SOI MOSFET is a promising candidate for future device scaling. The hot-carrier effect that increases with device miniaturization is another important device scaling constraint that has to be considered for the SOI MOSFET. The hot-carrier effect, which is usually monitored by the substrate current for the NMOSFET and the gate current for the PMOSFET for bulk devices, are closely related to the high channel electric field near the drain. The quasi-two-dimensional (quasi-2D) model provides the link between the hot-carrier currents and the device design parameters for the bulk MOSFETs. This model is refined by considering the 2D effect and the lateral doping gradient effect separately. >
Masters of the long haul: Pursuing long‐term work goals

Summary We investigate work motivation in the unstudied domain of individuals who pursue very long-term goals. We highlight the fact that the preponderance of research findings on the psychology of work motivation is based on short-term studies and discuss the potential relevance to long-term motivation of literatures including long-term thinking and time horizons, long-term goals and goal pursuit, and self-regulation. We adopt the qualitative research strategy of theory elaboration, with a specific intention of elaborating goal-setting theory. Analysis of interview data from a unique sample of scientists and others pursuing goals spanning decades or more yielded a structure of psychological factors that can enhance, support, and sustain motivation for the long term. Reconciling our findings with existing goal theories, we develop an integrative model of motivating factors and self-regulation processes underlying long-term goal pursuit. We discuss the implications, including an expanded focus for our field on motivating people for the long run. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of oxygen on interface microstructure evolution in CdS/CdTe solar cells

Microstructural changes at the CdS/CdTe solar cell interface where close-spaced sublimation (CSS) is used as the growth technique to deposit the p-type CdTe absorber layer are studied by systematic layer characterization at various stages during heterojunction growth. CdS layers grown by both chemical bath deposition (CBD) and CSS provide a basis for determining the effects of CdS crystallinity, grain size, and oxygen content on the subsequent CdTe layer. As-grown CBD CdS films exhibit small grains and variations in optical properties attributed to film impurities. In contrast, CSS yields CdSfilms with good crystallinity, larger grains, and nearly ideal optical properties. The hexagonal nature of CSS-grown CdS is seen to nucleate hexagonal CdTe during the initial stages of CdTe film growth. Cubic CdS deposited by CBD in contrast promotes cubic CdTe nucleation. Oxygen anneals in the latter case can aid hexagonal CdTe nucleation. Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of the CdS/CdTe interface show CdS-dependent differences in interdiffusion at the interface. This interdiffusion appears to be determined by the oxygen level in the CdS. When low-oxygen-containing CSS CdS films are used, sulfur diffusion is substantial, leading to significant consumption of the CdS layer. When these same films are annealed in oxygen, the consumption is reduced. Te diffusion into the CdS layer is also observed to decrease with oxygen anneals. Optical modeling shows that Te alloying with the CdS layer can greatly reduce the short-circuit current of CdS/CdTe devices.
Choosing a design to fit the situation: how to improve specificity and positive predictive values using Bayesian lot quality assurance sampling

Background Lot Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS) is a provably useful tool for monitoring health programmes. Although LQAS ensures acceptable Producer and Consumer risks, the literature alleges that the method suffers from poor specificity and positive predictive values (PPVs). We suggest that poor LQAS performance is due, in part, to variation in the true underlying distribution. However, until now the role of the underlying distribution in expected performance has not been adequately examined. Methods We present Bayesian-LQAS (B-LQAS), an approach to incorporating prior information into the choice of the LQAS sample size and decision rule, and explore its properties through a numerical study. Additionally, we analyse vaccination coverage data from UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children in 1968–1989 and 2008 to exemplify the performance of LQAS and B-LQAS. Results Results of our numerical study show that the choice of LQAS sample size and decision rule is sensitive to the distribution of prior information, as well as to individual beliefs about the importance of correct classification. Application of the B-LQAS approach to the UNICEF data improves specificity and PPV in both time periods (1968–1989 and 2008) with minimal reductions in sensitivity and negative predictive value. Conclusions LQAS is shown to be a robust tool that is not necessarily prone to poor specificity and PPV as previously alleged. In situations where prior or historical data are available, B-LQAS can lead to improvements in expected performance.
Development and Validation of a Fecal Testosterone Biomarker in Mus musculus and Peromyscus maniculatus

This is a report on the development and validation of an ELISA method to determine fecal testosterone levels, and on their evaluation as a biomarker for adverse effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on reproductive health using male rodents of the Peromyscus maniculatus and Mus musculus species as an animal model. The ELISA antibody had the highest specificity for testosterone (100%), followed by dihydrotestosterone (57.4%) and androstenediol (0.27%). Radiolabeled testosterone was injected i.p. into three mice. Fecal samples were collected, extracted, and analyzed by liquid scintillation counting. The ELISA was performed to characterize the excretion kinetics and metabolic fate of circulating testosterone. Solubilization of feces with 10% methanol overnight provided an extraction efficiency of 87% for all metabolites; an ethyl ether extraction was more selective for testosterone. The fecal excretion of the testosterone was a biphasic process with a majority of the radioactivity recovered in the first 24 hours. HPLC analysis revealed at least five testosterone metabolites in feces, with most metabolites being less polar than testosterone. This study forms the initial evaluation of what will become a field monitoring tool.
Specifying Interactions in Integrated Manufacturing Systems

Systems of manufacturing software are often constructed by integrating pre- existing software components. Accurate specification of the component interactions in these systems is needed to ensure testability and maintainability. Moreover, standards for manufacturing systems must specify the interactions to achieve interoperability and substitutability of components. In this report we discuss approaches for specifying component interactions and examine a number of potentially useful specification techniques.
A Novel Experimental Setup to Measure the Changes in Electrical Conductivity of Hydrating Cementitious Materials

One of the alternative ways to fabricate shaped bodies from cementious materials would be to press the loose powder of materials (in steel dies, or isostatically) and to infiltrate them with liquids using the natural capillary forces of porous bodies [1,2].
The Interrelation of Technical and Dramatic Devices of Motion Pictures

The dramatic technic of motion pictures is determined by the cinema mechanics and by the way the actual world is shaped through the medium of lens and microphone. The technician must be guided in his work by an understanding of the dramatic purposes and meanings of the devices used and by a knowledge of the fundamentals of cinematic dramaturgy. Some of the requisites for attaining a harmonious blend of all the cinematic powers and possibilities, and the differences between mere stage productions and motion picture productions are pointed out.
DYNAMICS OF COMBUSTION OSCILLATIONS WITH AND WITHOUT PHASE-DELAY CONTROL

Detailed measurements of the pressure and heat release fields are presented in a swirl-stabilized combustor with the goal of identifying the basic mechanisms driving the unsteady heat release, and to explore the effect of feedback control on the heat release. Measurements show that the pressure and heat release signatures are characterized by both the dominant acoustic instability mode at 235 Hz and a low frequency mode at 10 Hz. The low frequency mode is observed to be related to the bulk mode of the air-delivery chamber, and is seen to contribute to a decorrelation between the pressure and heat release signals. Phase-locked CH images clearly reveal the heat release dynamics contributing to the instability. These dynamics are strongest in the annular mixing layer regions, and is therefore believed to be related to dynamics of the swirl-induced toroidal structures. Feedback control with both acoustic and fuel modulation are seen to be effective.
Administrative Supervision of Local Government: the Canadian Experience

Canadian local-government institutions have been influenced by those of both Great Britain and the United States, yet they retain a distinctly Canadian character. Few residents of the United States have been acquainted with Canada's internal governmental problems, because there has been relatively little information available. Canada's top political leaders have been pre-occupied with making Canada a nation, one prepared to take its place in world affairs. But what of the governments within the Dominion? The Rowell-Sirois Commission hearings and its reports in 1939 brought to the attention of many people the problems of dominion-provincial relations. More recently, the Goldenberg report in British Columbia brought attention to certain provincial-local relationships. During the 1930's, many persons in the United States became interested in the Canadian provincial boards of municipal affairs because those boards seemed to offer a means for disciplining improvident municipalities and maintaining good fiscal standards. Viewed in their full perspective, however, these boards and the departments of municipal affairs in Canadian provinces illustrate vital developments in central-local relations. Within the past forty-five years, Canadians have moved rapidly in developing the vast natural resources of the country and in building cities, towns, and villages.
Managing team activities toward success.

Although there are many definitions of a team and teamwork, Amgen, Inc., has defined a team as "a dynamic group of diverse people with common objectives but different responsibilities that is chartered with improving a process, a product or a service." Teamwork constitutes a blending of team dynamics with partnership; thus a new term was created to define teamwork at Amgen--"teamship."
Analysis of enzyme kinetics by using integrated rate equations. Arginine decarboxylase.

Abstract We have used an integrated rate equation to analyse the reaction catalysed by the inducible arginine decarboxylase from Escherichia coli B. The stoichiometry Arginine----agmatine + CO2 is the simplest of the multiple-substrate/multiple-product cases. Twenty-one time courses were carried out at various initial concentrations of arginine and agmatine, and were then fitted to the integrated equation by using appropriate analytical procedures. Values were obtained for six of the seven possible kinetic constants, corresponding to kcat, KArg, the terms for competitive inhibition by agmatine, by CO2 and by agmatine and CO2 together, and the term for uncompetitive inhibition by agmatine. The uncompetitive constant for CO2 was indeterminate. Our results indicate that it is both practical and experimentally economical to obtain kinetic constants from full time courses.
Intratumoral and Intertumoral Genomic Heterogeneity of Multifocal Localized Prostate Cancer Impacts Molecular Classifications and Genomic Prognosticators

Abstract Background Next-generation sequencing is revealing genomic heterogeneity in localized prostate cancer (CaP). Incomplete sampling of CaP multiclonality has limited the implications for molecular subtyping, stratification, and systemic treatment. Objective To determine the impact of genomic and transcriptomic diversity within and among intraprostatic CaP foci on CaP molecular taxonomy, predictors of progression, and actionable therapeutic targets. Design, setting, and participants Four consecutive patients with clinically localized National Comprehensive Cancer Network intermediate- or high-risk CaP who did not receive neoadjuvant therapy underwent radical prostatectomy at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in June–July 2014. Presurgical information on CaP content and a customized tissue procurement procedure were used to isolate nonmicroscopic and noncontiguous CaP foci in radical prostatectomy specimens. Three cores were obtained from the index lesion and one core from smaller lesions. RNA and DNA were extracted simultaneously from 26 cores with ≥90% CaP content and analyzed using whole-exome sequencing, single-nucleotide polymorphism arrays, and RNA sequencing. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Somatic mutations, copy number alternations, gene expression, gene fusions, and phylogeny were defined. The impact of genomic alterations on CaP molecular classification, gene sets measured in Oncotype DX, Prolaris, and Decipher assays, and androgen receptor activity among CaP cores was determined. Results and limitations There was considerable variability in genomic alterations among CaP cores, and between RNA- and DNA-based platforms. Heterogeneity was found in molecular grouping of individual CaP foci and the activity of gene sets underlying the assays for risk stratification and androgen receptor activity, and was validated in independent genomic data sets. Determination of the implications for clinical decision-making requires follow-up studies. Conclusions Genomic make-up varies widely among CaP foci, so care should be taken when making treatment decisions based on a single biopsy or index lesions. Patient summary We examined the molecular composition of individual cancers in a patient's prostate. We found a lot of genetic diversity among these cancers, and concluded that information from a single cancer biopsy is not sufficient to guide treatment decisions.
Shaping datasets: Optimal data selection for specific target distributions across dimensions

This paper presents a method for dataset manipulation based on Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP). The proposed optimization can narrow down a dataset to a particular size, while enforcing specific distributions across different dimensions. It essentially leverages the redundancies of an initial dataset in order to generate more compact versions of it, with a specific target distribution across each dimension. If the desired target distribution is uniform, then the effect is balancing: all values across all different dimensions are equally represented. Other types of target distributions can also be specified, depending on the nature of the problem. The proposed approach may be used in machine learning, for shaping training and testing datasets, or in crowdsourcing, for preparing datasets of a manageable size.
Homomorphic proximity computation in geosocial networks

With the growing popularity of mobile devices that have sophisticated localization capability, it becomes more convenient and tempting to give away location data in exchange for recognition and status in the social networks. Geosocial networks, as an example, offer the ability to notify a user or trigger a service when a friend is within geographical proximity. In this paper, we present two methods to support secure distance computation on encrypted location data; that is, computing distance functions without knowing the actual coordinates of users. The underlying security is ensured by the homomorphic encryption scheme which supports computation on encrypted data. We demonstrate feasibility of the proposed approaches by conducting various performance evaluations on platforms with different specifications. We argue that the novelty of this work enables a new breed of pervasive and mobile computing concepts, which was previously not possible due to the lack of feasible mechanisms that support computation on encrypted location data.
Chapter 6 – A Cognitive Random Forest: An Intra- and Intercognitive Computing for Big Data Classification Under Cune Condition

Abstract In this chapter, a cognitive computing model, a cognitive computing architecture, and a cognitive computing system are proposed and tested to address a big data classification problem. The proposed cognitive computing model is called the STE-M model and it adopts the standard components, senses (S), thoughts (T), experiences (E), and memory (M), of human cognition to describe the processes involved in cognitive computing for big data classification. Similarly, the proposed cognitive computing architecture is called the cognitive random forest and it amalgamates the STE-M model and a set of random forest classifiers to enhance continuous learning. It also includes intra- and intercognitive computing models to connect STE-M and random forest models and improve classification accuracy with spatial and temporal reasoning. A cognitive computing system is also proposed and it is used to validate the proposed cognitive computing architecture. Experiments with a robotic navigation scenario under different environmental conditions show that the proposed cognitive random forest is capable of handling the environmental conditions what we called the cune conditions for big data.
Mitochondrial DNA phylogeography of least cisco Coregonus sardinella in Alaska

This study presents the first detailed analysis of the mitochondrial DNA diversity of least cisco Coregonus sardinella in Alaska using a 678 bp segment of the control region (D-loop) of the mitochondrial genome. Findings suggest that the history of C. sardinella in Alaska differs from that of other species of Coregonus present in the state and surrounding regions. The examined populations of C. sardinella are genetically diverse across Alaska. Sixty-eight distinct mitochondrial haplotypes were identified among 305 individuals sampled from nine locations. The haplotype minimum spanning network and phylogeny showed a modest level of geographic segregation among haplotypes, suggesting high levels of on-going or recent connectivity among distant populations. Observed ΦST values and the results of homogeneity and AMOVAs indicate incipient genetic differentiation between aggregations in three broad regional groups. Sites north of the Brooks Range formed one group, sites in the Yukon and Selawik Rivers formed a second group and sites south of the Yukon drainage formed the third group. Overall, the sequence data showed that a large proportion of mtDNA genetic variation in C. sardinella is shared across Alaska, but this variation is not homogeneously distributed across all regions and for all haplotype groups.
Carotid Endarterectomy and Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting

Both carotid endarterectomy and carotid angioplasty and stenting are established interventions for select patients with carotid stenosis. Carotid endarterectomy has a long history and differs from most other surgical procedures in that it has been intensely studied in multiple randomized controlled trials and proven to reduce the risk of stroke in select patients. Angioplasty for carotid stenosis was first reported in the early 1980s and initially associated with a high rate of thromboembolic complications due to unprotected release of plaque debris. The combination of carotid angioplasty and stenting, introduced in 1995, allowed for plaque stabilization and reduction in debris embolization. However, only with the development of embolic protection techniques and devices has carotid angioplasty and stenting become a true alternative to carotid endarterectomy in select patients with carotid stenosis. This chapter focuses on the medical evidence in support of both carotid endarterectomy and carotid angioplasty and stenting.
Nectar sampling for prairie and oak savanna butterfly restoration.

Premise of the study: Understanding floral resources is vital for restoring pollinators in habitats affected by anthropogenic development and climate change. As the primary adult food, nectar can limit butterfly longevity and reproduction. For pollinator restoration, it would therefore be useful to examine nectar resources. However, because many flowers preferred by butterflies are too small for microcapillary sampling and the potential for nectar contamination can make accurate measurement difficult, we developed a modified centrifugation method to extract and separate nectar and pollen. Methods: We sampled nectar from 19 forbs using a glass wool filter to exclude potentially contaminating pollen during centrifugation. To minimize costs, we measured sugar concentration by refractometry and simple ninhydrin tests for amino acids and improved test accuracy by subsequent image analysis. Artificial nectars were used to verify the new techniques. Results: This method eliminated pollen from samples, while only...
The impact of insulin dependence on short-term postoperative complications in diabetic patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty.

Background The number of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) procedures performed is steadily increasing, and it is important to characterize predictors of postoperative complications for risk assessment models. Whereas diabetes has been associated with increased morbidity after TSA, the impact of insulin dependence on the risk profile of diabetic patients has not been described. Methods The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2011-2014 was used to identify 5918 TSA cases. Patients were categorized as non–diabetes mellitus (non-DM), non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Thirty-day postoperative complication rates, length of stay (LOS), and readmission rates were compared across the diabetes groups. Multivariable logistic regression adjusting for demographics and comorbidity burden was performed to determine the independent association between insulin dependence and postoperative outcomes. Results In bivariate analysis, NIDDM and IDDM were associated with multiple postoperative complications, including stroke, sepsis, wound complications, blood transfusion, and extended LOS. With multivariable logistic regression, however, NIDDM patients did not have significantly greater odds of any study end point relative to non-DM patients. IDDM patients had significantly greater odds for having any postoperative complication (odds ratio [OR], 1.53), stroke (OR, 13.63), blood transfusion (OR, 1.67), and extended LOS (OR, 1.38). Conclusions After adjustment for demographics and comorbidity burden, NIDDM patients had risk profiles similar to those of non-DM patients. IDDM was an independent predictor of multiple postoperative complications. Insulin dependence should be considered in the preoperative risk assessment of diabetic patients undergoing TSA.
Dreyfus, Hubert and Charles Taylor. Retrieving Realism

Hubert Dreyfus and Charles Taylor's Retrieving Realism revisits a series of conversations they began with John McDowell and the late Richard Rorty in an effort to work out a realistic compromise be...
Heterogeneous direct rebound effect: Theory and evidence from the Energy Star program

Abstract Improvements in energy efficiency change the relative prices of energy services and thus the consumption of those services. This so-called direct rebound effect changes the energy savings that improved efficiency might otherwise achieve. This paper develops a theoretical model that shows the sign of the direct rebound effect depends on the type of energy service. Empirical evidence from the 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey data shows a negative direct rebound effect for Energy Star dishwashers and a potentially positive direct rebound effect for Energy Star air conditioners. Negative rebound effects amplify energy savings, while positive rebound effects offset energy savings from using more efficient technologies.
Intubation of prehospital patients with curved laryngoscope blade is more successful than with straight blade.

Abstract Objective Direct laryngoscopy can be performed using curved or straight blades, and providers usually choose the blade they are most comfortable with. However, curved blades are anecdotally thought of as easier to use than straight blades. We seek to compare intubation success rates of paramedics using curved versus straight blades. Methods Design: retrospective chart review. Setting: hospital-based suburban ALS service with 20,000 annual calls. Subjects: prehospital patients with any direct laryngoscopy intubation attempt over almost 9 years. First attempt and overall success rates were calculated for attempts with curved and straight blades. Differences between the groups were calculated. Results 2299 patients were intubated by direct laryngoscopy. 1865 had attempts with a curved blade, 367 had attempts with a straight blade, and 67 had attempts with both. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. First attempt success was 86% with a curved blade and 73% with a straight blade: a difference of 13% (95% CI: 9–17). Overall success was 96% with a curved blade and 81% with a straight blade: a difference of 15% (95% CI: 12–18). There was an average of 1.11 intubation attempts per patient with a curved blade and 1.13 attempts per patient with a straight blade (2% difference, 95% CI: −3–7). Conclusions Our study found a significant difference in intubation success rates between laryngoscope blade types. Curved blades had higher first attempt and overall success rates when compared to straight blades. Paramedics should consider selecting a curved blade as their tool of choice to potentially improve intubation success.
Integrating Art Form Therapies and Family Therapy

Art form experiences that utilize music, dance, and art are suggested alternatives for participants in family therapy who cannot express themselves verbally but communicate nonverbally. Collaborati...
Chelate Sensor Method for Mercury

Our chelate sensor method for detecting mercury is based on the high affinity of thiol-containing ligands for the mercuric ion. The method combines the simple ELISA-format with the selective complexation of mercuric ions by dithiocarbamate chelators. The first assay uses a sandwich chelate formed by a ligand immobilized on the well of an ELISA plate, mercuric ion of the analyzed sample, and another ligand bound to the reporter enzyme. Our second assay utilizes competition between the binding of mercuric ions and an organomercury-conjugate to a chelating conjugate. Specifically, it involves a chelator doped on the solid surface and a mercury-containing enzyme-tracer. Both assays were further characterized by testing them under several conditions that might be encountered during some practical applications of the assay. Finally, they were tested with river water and human saliva to yield a good correlation with spike levels.
Using dialog-level knowledge sources to improve speech recognition

We motivate and describe an implementation of the MINDS1 speech recognition system. MINDS uses knowledge of dialog structures, user goals and focus in a problem solving situation. The knowledge is combined to form predictions which translate into dynamically generated semantic network grammars. An experiment evaluated recognition accuracy given different levels of knowledge as constraints. Our results show that speech recognition accuracy improves dramatically, when the maximally constrained dynamic network grammar is used to process the speech input signal.
Mechanics of cortical folding: stress, growth and stability.

Cortical folding, or gyrification, coincides with several important developmental processes. The folded shape of the human brain allows the cerebral cortex, the thin outer layer of neurons and thei...
Magnetic Field Sensors Based on the Direct Magneto-Electric Effect in Hexaferrite Thin Films and the Equivalent Circuit Model

We propose the design, fabrication, experimental implementation, and equivalent circuit model of a magneto-electric (ME) sensing device for determining the magnitude and direction of low-frequency ac magnetic fields. The device consists of two capacitive ME thin-film sensors fabricated by means of the laser ablation technique inside a pulsed laser deposition (PLD) chamber. The films are grown on a 500-nm thick indium tin oxide layer on $1.5\times 1.5$ cm2 silicon substrates using two deposition methods, namely, single target (ST) and multiple target (MT). The proposed setup is used to detect ac magnetic fields generated from a solenoid coil located at a distance of 10 mm. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed magnetic field sensing approach using the MT method can establish the magnitude and direction of external magnetic fields with detection errors below 8%. Based on the experimental observations, we also establish a mathematical expression describing the direct ME coupling effect observed in M-type strontium hexaferrite thin films. Subsequently, we develop an electrical circuit model that can accurately predict device behavior using circuit simulations. The differential output voltages at different field strengths are predicted for both ST and MT films by simulating this equivalent circuit using the LTspice software from Linear Technology. The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data both qualitatively and quantitatively, and the average difference between the two ranges from 5% to 19% in the worst case.
Sex Differences in the Temporal Neuromolecular and Synaptogenic Effects of the Rapid-acting Antidepressant Drug Ketamine in the Mouse Brain.

Abstract Preclinical evidence suggests that ketamine’s rapid and sustained antidepressant actions are due to the induction of synaptogenesis in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the hippocampus (HIPP), two brain regions implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression. However, research on the neurobiological effects of ketamine has focused almost exclusively on males. Findings from our group and others indicate that female rodents are more reactive to ketamine’s antidepressant effects, since they respond to lower doses in antidepressant-predictive behavioral models. The sex-dependent mechanisms that mediate the antidepressant effects of ketamine in the female brain are elusive. Herein, we assessed the neurobiological effects of a single ketamine dose (10 mg/kg; previously shown to induce rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects in mice of both sexes), on glutamate release in the mPFC, as well as on the expression of synaptic plasticity markers, and spine density in the mPFC and the HIPP of C57BL/6J mice. Our data revealed that ketamine induced a sex-specific “glutamate burst” in the male mPFC. Ketamine activated the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway in prefrontocortical synaptoneurosomes, and enhanced spine formation in the male mPFC and HIPP. In females, ketamine induced a sustained increase in hippocampal spine density. Overall, these data exposed a sharp sex difference in the synaptogenic response to ketamine in stress-naive mice, and further suggest that the mPFC may play a more important role in mediating the antidepressant effects of the drug in males, while the HIPP may be more important for females.
A non-enzymatic function associated with a putative histone demethylase licenses epigenetic inheritance

ABSTRACT H3K9 methylation (H3K9me) specifies the establishment and maintenance of transcriptionally silent epigenetic states or heterochromatin. The enzymatic erasure of histone modifications is widely assumed to be the primary mechanism that resets epigenetic states during and after DNA replication. Here, we demonstrate that a putative histone-demethylase Epe1 in fission yeast, regulates epigenetic inheritance through a non-enzymatic process. Mutations that map to its putative catalytic domain disrupt its interaction with Swi6HP1 and heterochromatin specific pattern of localization without any requirement for enzymatic activity. Epe1 and Swi6HP1 form an inhibitory complex which displaces histone deacetylases from sites of heterochromatin formation. Sequence-specific recruitment of a histone deacetylase, Clr3 renders heterochromatin refractory to the anti-silencing functions of Epe1 and licenses the inheritance of epigenetic states in cis. Epigenetic inheritance solely depends on the read-write activity of the H3K9 methyltransferase Clr4 which competes with genome-wide nucleosome turnover processes in the absence of enzymatic erasure.
Univ. of Southern California’s ADAM System

The University of Southern California’s Advanced Design Automation (ADAM) system includes scheduling, data path synthesis, and controller specification generation. Two general-purpose synthesis paths are supported: MAHA/REAL, which performs scheduling and register allocation, and MAHA/MABAL, which performs scheduling and data path synthesis. ADAM also includes programs for planning, area estimation, and module selection. A related project, SEHWA, synthesizes pipelined designs. See also Univ. of Illinois’ IMBSL / RLEXT System — Knapp is now involved with that system.
Metastatic basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of thymic origin

A 57-year-old man with a known anterior mediastinal mass presented with abdominal distension, jaundice, and signs of urinary and bowel obstruction. Labs revealed leukocytosis, transaminitis, direct hyperbilirubinaemia and elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and uric acid. Subsequent imaging revealed the anterior mediastinal mass and diffuse liver lesions consistent with metastatic disease. MRI of the spine and brain were negative for metastases. Liver biopsy and immunohistochemistry revealed basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of thymic origin. Treatment with capecitabine was initiated but was complicated by worsening liver and kidney failure. Eventually, due to continued worsening of the patient's condition and minimal treatment response, capecitabine was stopped during cycle 1 and the patient was discharged to inpatient hospice with comfort care. In this case report, we highlight the presenting features, imaging findings and management of a patient with metastatic thymic carcinoma.
Infant temperament is associated with maternal feeding behaviors in early infancy.

Abstract Parental feeding practices shape infant eating behaviors and may impact obesity risk. For example, feeding on a schedule and using food to soothe have been associated with greater infant weight gain and future obesity risk. Most studies focus on parental determinants of feeding practices, but infant temperament might influence feeding practices parents select. Studies examining associations of infant temperament with parental feeding practices in early infancy are needed. Thus, the purpose of this cross-sectional, observational study was to test the hypothesis that infant temperament would be associated with use of food to soothe and feeding on a schedule. Mother-infant dyads (N = 98) from 3 parent birth cohort studies presented for clinic visits at infant age of 3–5 months. Mothers completed a demographic questionnaire. Feeding practices (use of food to soothe and feeding on a schedule) and maternal perceptions of 3 dimensions of infant temperament (surgency, orienting/regulating, and negative affect) were collected by survey. Spearman partial correlations were used to examine if any of the 3 infant temperament dimensions were associated with use of food to soothe or feeding on a schedule, adjusting for maternal marital status, race/ethnicity, BMI, infant age at the visit, and infant weight-for-length z-score. Greater perceived infant surgency/extraversion was associated with greater use of food to calm (Spearman partial r = 0.25, p
The effect of hypnotic suggestion on spinal cord injury pain

Chronic pain is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, few effective treatments have been found for SCI-related pain. The current study sought to explore whether persons with SCI-related pain would respond to hypnotic suggestion for pain relief, and to examine possible moderators of this response. Twenty-two individuals with SCI-related pain rated their 6-month average and least pain on 0‐10 scales of pain intensity. They also rated their current pain intensity and pain unpleasantness on 0‐10 scales at eight subsequent time points: immediately before a hypnotic induction, immediately after the induction, after each of five hypnotic suggestions, and at the end of the entire session after awakening. Eighty-six percent of the participants reported decreases in pain intensity and pain unpleasantness from pre-induction to post-induction. Significant omnibus analyses of variance followed by pairwise comparisons indicated statistically significant decreases in pain intensity and unpleasantness from pre-to post induction for both pain intensity and pain unpleasantness, and an additional decrease in pain intensity following the analgesia suggestion. In addition, although not specifically suggested, the decrease in pain that subjects experienced during the hypnotic session persisted after they were instructed to awaken. The ability of the subjects to decrease pain intensity to levels lower than the least pain they had experienced during the past six months was associated with hypnotic responsiveness, while the decrease in pain intensity from pre-induction to post-analgesia suggestion was associated with 6-month average pain. These preliminary findings indicate that hypnotic interventions have the potential to benefit many individuals with SCI-related pain, and that controlled trials of hypnotic analgesia with this population are warranted.
Localization of homologous plasma proteins in the human placenta by fluorescent antibody

Abstract Normal and abnormal human placentas, as well as specimens of hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma, have been surveyed for homologous plasma albumin and globulin by the fluorescent antibody technique. Protein has been found broadly dispersed throughout the stromal ground substance of the villi, decidua, and cord, as well as in the intervillous spaces. Slight specific localization has been noted in the trophoblastic cytoplasm, but not within nuclei. Syncytial knots have shown somewhat higher levels of cytoplasmic protein accumulation. Albumin and gamma globulin exhibited similar distribution, and all placental material, including that from a case of erythroblastosis fetalis, presented similar topography. Syncytial masses in the choriocarcinoma revealed intracytoplasmic localization, while the mole showed a general diffusion through the vesicular stroma. The findings do not indicate synthesis of blood protein by the human placenta, but rather point to a transfer of maternal albumin and globulin across the syncytium, perhaps by pinocytosis and subsequent discharge into the villous stroma.
Social and sexual networks : their role in the spread of HIV/AIDS among young gay men

This article examines how networks of social and sexual relations affect risky sexual behavior and HIV seroprevalence among young gay men. Social networks can transmit information and cultural norms regarding safer sex, while networks of sexual partners channel the risk of exposure to HIV infection. These two network effects may help to explain some of the behavior and seroconversion differentials in the gay community. A number of recent studies have shown higher rates of unsafe sex among younger gay men. In the Longitudinal AIDS Impact Project, for example, younger gay men (18-24) report unsafe receptive anal sex at rates double that for any other age group (30% vs. 14-16%). One possible explanation is that younger men have watched fewer friends and colleagues contract HIV or AIDS, and are correspondingly less cautious. We test this hypothesis by comparing the personal networks of younger and older gay men to see whether those who practice safer sex have more exposure to persons with HIV or AIDS. The results give only weak support for the hypothesis that personal exposure to the effects of HIV and AIDS increases adherence to safer sex practices. Seroprevalence patterns among young men may be the result of their sexual networks, with those choosing older partners more likely to be exposed to HIV infection. We examine this hypothesis by comparing the age composition of the unsafe sexual partner network for seropositive and seronegative young men. The results strongly support the hypothesis that younger gay men with older partners are the leading edge of the epidemic in their cohort.
FACTOR LABELLING IN FACTORIAL ECOLOGY

ABSTRACT In the factorial ecology of American cities, the labels “socioeconomic status'’and “life cycle'’have been given to the two principal axes on the basis of several consistently related variables. If the general use of these names implies recurring processes of housing choice and city growth, which result in the observed residential patterns, then all variables related to these processes should exhibit consistent relationships to the principal axes. A systematic comparison of the loadings of variables for ten American cities reveals both consistencies and notable differences in the relationships of attributes to the two major dimensions. Careful attention to the characteristics of the populations submitted to the technique of factorial ecology is required to account for the variations, and may suggest new or refined explanations for the spatial relationships. Regional variations in social stratification, demographic characteristics, occupational structure, local housing market conditions and prefere...
Validation of the Sport Competition Anxiety Test.

The Sport Competition Anxiety Test has been reported to be a valid and reliable measure of the predisposition toward competitive anxiety. The statistical data provided with the test do not support ...
Electric Pulp Tester Conductance Through Various Interface Media

A conducting media is necessary when using an electric pulp tester (EPT). The objective of this study was to observe differences in conductance through various media. We hypothesized that variations in current conductance through different media exist. The pulp chamber of a freshly extracted premolar was exposed, and the cathode of a voltmeter was inserted into the pulpal tissue. The anode was coupled to the EPT handpiece. The measurement taken during dry (no interface media) EPT tip-to-tooth contact was 0 V, which served as negative control. EPT tip directly touching the cathode measured 3.9V and served as positive control. A number of media readily available in the dental office were tested. Data was analyzed using single factor ANOVA. Listerine (3.3) conducted the most voltage (p<0.5). Of nonliquids, K-Y Brand UltraGel and Crest Baking Soda & Peroxide Whitening Tartar Control toothpaste recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher voltage readings (1.4 V).
Near‐Extinction of Porcupines by Mountain Lions and Consequences of Ecosystem Change in the Great Basin Desert

In North America’s Great Basin Desert changes in plant communities that occurred after the introduction of domestic livestock in the late 1800s resulted in the irruption of mule deer (Ocodoileus hemionus) and expansion of mountain lions ( Felis concolor). We report on a situation in which mountain lion predation caused the near-extinction of another native species, porcupines ( Erethizon dorsatum). We used demographic information collected over 8 years on an individually identified population and long term climatic data in a stochastic population model to examine the hypothesis that predation and not weather-induced starvation or random population fluctuations threatened the persistence of a naturally small population of porcupines. Whether drought-related reductions in mule deer densities induced mountain lions to prey on porcupines is unclear, but our results suggest predation and not climatic conditions caused the decline of a once robust population of over 80 to <5 animals in only 3 years. These data represent an unusual case in which predation by a native predator caused the near-extinction of a native prey species, suggesting that one unforeseen consequence of ecosystem change in western North America may be the impending loss of small, native vertebrate populations. Cuasi-extincion de Puercoespines por Pumas y Consecuencias del Cambio en el Ecosistema del Desierto Great Basin Los cambios ocurridos en las comunidades vegetales del Desierto Great Basin en Norteamerica despues de la introduccion de ganado a fines del siglo pasado resultaron en la irrupcion del venado bura (Odocoileus hemionus) y en la ezpansion del puma ( Felis concolor). Este trabajo reporta un caso en el que la depredacion por pumas casi causo la extincion de otra especie nativa, el puercoespin ( Erethizon dorsatum). Utilizamos informacion demografica de una poblacion individual obtenida a lo largo de 8 anos asi como datos climaticos de varios anos en un modelo estocastico de la poblacion para examinar la hipotesis de que la persistencia de poblaciones naturalmente pequenas de puercoespines estaba amenazada por la depredacion y no por hambruna ni por fluctuaciones poblacionales aleatorias. No es claro si la reduccion en la densidad de venado bura asociada a periodos de sequia indujo a los pumas a depredar puercoespines, pero nuestros resultados sugieren que la depredacion y no las condiciones climaticas, provoco la declinacion de una poblacion robusta de mas de 80 animales a menos de 5 en solo tres anos. Estos datos representan un caso inusual en el que la depredacion por una especie nativa casi causo la extincion de una especie-presa nativa, lo que sugiere que una consecuencia no prevista de los cambios en los ecosistemas de Norteamerica occidental puede ser la inminente perdida de poblaciones pequenas de vertebrados nativos.