cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Conquering Balkan Orthodox Merchant

The origins of a Balkan Orthodox merchant class or classes may be traced back to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Not until the eighteenth century, however, did it become sufficiently strong in wealth and number to capture the trade of Hungary, South Russia, and the eastern Mediterranean. The eighteenth century was a time of expansion of French, German, English, and Russian trade in the Balkans. It was also a time of growth of the trade of Moslem Albanian and Bosnian merchants. But, in terms of its significance to the cultural, political, and general historical evolution of the Balkan peoples, most important of all was the expansion of the Balkan Orthodox merchant: the Greek trader of Constantinople, Salonika, and Smyrna, the Greek and Orthodox Albanian merchant, sailor, and shipper of the smaller Aegean islands, the Greek, Vlach, and Macedo-Slav muleteer and forwarding agent of Epirus, Thessaly, and Macedonia, the Serbian pig-merchant of Sumadija, the “Illyrian” muleteer and forwarding agent of Herzegovina and Dalmatia, who set up business in Ragusa (Dubrovnik) or Trieste, the “Rascian” of Pannonia, and the Greek or Bulgarian of the eastern Rhodope. The Balkan Orthodox merchants were Ottoman, Habsburg, and Russian subjects, but their principal business was to bring goods into or out of the Ottoman Empire. The area of their primary business concentration stretched north and west of the political limits of the Ottoman Empire to Nezhin in South Russia, Leipzig in Germany, Vienna in Austria, and Livorno and Naples in Italy. In western Europe, they succeeded in creating an area of secondary commercial penetration.
Promoting innovation in pediatric nutrition.

Truly impactful innovation can only be recognized in retrospect. Moreover, almost by definition, developing algorithmic paths on roadmaps for innovation are likely to be unsuccessful because innovator
The association of age of toilet training and dysfunctional voiding.

Objective To determine whether age of toilet training is associated with dysfunctional voiding in children. Materials and methods We compared patients referred to the urologic clinics for voiding dysfunction with age-matched controls without urinary complaints. Characteristics including age and reason for toilet training, method of training, and encopresis or constipation were compared between both groups. Results Initiation of toilet training prior to 24 months and later than 36 months of age were associated with dysfunctional voiding. However, dysfunctional voiding due to late toilet training was also associated with constipation. Conclusion Dysfunctional voiding may be due to delayed emptying of the bowel and bladder by children. The symptoms of dysfunctional voiding are more common when toilet training early, as immature children may be less likely to empty in a timely manner, or when training late due to (or in association with) constipation.
CHARACTERISTICS OF RIGHT VENTRICULAR ACTIVATION DETECTED BY BODY SURFACE POTENTIAL MAPPING AMONG POSTOPERATIVE TETRALOGY OF FALLOT PATIENTS WITH AND WITHOUT ARRHYTHMIA

In order to study myocardial activation, 15 patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot had body surface potential maps (BSPM) (180 electrode array). All had ambulatory EKG (H), exercise EKG (Ex) and intracardiac electrophysiology (EP). Advanced right bundle branch block (RBBB) was present in 12/15; partial RBBB in 1/15; no RBBB in 2/15. BSPM characteristics of advanced RBBB were lack of right ventricular (RV) breakthrough (12/12); low left ventricular peak to peak voltage (PPV)(1202 ± 544 UV); high RV PPV (3194 ± 1064);high T wave PPV (1549 ± 626) (consistent with “propagation” of repolarization); all significantly different from a normal population previously studied. Although advanced RBBB was “central” in 8/12 and “peripheral” in 4/12 by EP, no difference in RV activation was detected by BSPM among these two groups. Multiple RV activation centers (MC) were seen in 5/12; 5/5 having either sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) during EP (3/5) or frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVC) on H or Ex (4/5). Without MC 1/7 had VT; 1/7 had PVC's (p< .01). Patients with MC had fractionation of intracardiac RV electrogram in 4/4 having EP mapping near the His bundle, (1/7 without MC) (p < .01). An anterior superior activation front was recognized in 8/12 with advanced RBBB, appearing 0-18 ms after initial RV activation, consistent with cell-cell propagation across the superior ventricular septum. We conclude: Within the spectrum of advanced RBBB, BSPM may show abnormalities of impulse propagation in the RV associated with ventricular arrhythmia.
Archaeology: New tools for an old art: Thermoluminescence, magnetometers, satellite photography, and other techniques and instruments aid the archaeologist

The impact of modern science and technology on archaeology has been remarkable. Modern methods for dating human events, which have been developing over the past 30 years, are altering the whole framework of man's history as we now understand it. Aerial and satellite photography now help archaeologists select sites of potential value for eventual excavations. In the field, sophisticated instruments that sense minute changes in the earth's magnetism have been successfully employed to pinpoint old buried structures, whereas sensitive sonar devices help underwater archaeologists locate shipwrecks. And these are but a few of the areas where this impact has been felt.
Graphene Oxide Sheets at Interfaces

Graphite oxide sheet, now called graphene oxide (GO), is the product of chemical exfoliation of graphite and has been known for more than a century. GO has been largely viewed as hydrophilic, presumably due to its excellent colloidal stability in water. Here we report that GO is an amphiphile with hydrophilic edges and a more hydrophobic basal plane. GO can act like a surfactant, as measured by its ability to adsorb on interfaces and lower the surface or interfacial tension. Since the degree of ionization of the edge −COOH groups is affected by pH, GO’s amphiphilicity can be tuned by pH. In addition, size-dependent amphiphilicity of GO sheets is observed. Since each GO sheet is a single molecule as well as a colloidal particle, the molecule−colloid duality makes it behave like both a molecular and a colloidal surfactant. For example, GO is capable of creating highly stable Pickering emulsions of organic solvents like solid particles. It can also act as a molecular dispersing agent to process insoluble mat...
Primary structure of xenopus laevis S 10, a ribosomal protein that cross-reacts with antibodies to immunoglobulin light chains

Abstract Screening of a cDNA expression library from Xenopus laevis splenocytes with purified antibodies to Xenopus immunoglobulin light chains unexpectedly led to the isolation of a clone with an insert whose deduced amino acid sequence is similar to that of a segment of a protein, S 10, from the small (40S) subunit of rat ribosomes. A clone containing an insert encoding the corresponding complete protein was isolated from another cDNA library by nucleic acid hybridization. The deduced amino acid sequence of this insert is 94% identical to that of rat S10; no similarity to immunoglobulin sequences could be discerned. The reactivity of the anti-light chain antibodies with the putative Xenopus S10 facilitated the purification of the protein, by high-pressure liquid chromatography, from the 40S subunit of Xenopus ribosomes. Amino-terminal sequence analysis established the identity of the ribosomal protein with the protein encoded by the cDNA insert. To explore the basis for this unexpected cross-reaction, an “antibody transfer” experiment was carried out. Antibodies to Xenopus light chains were adsorbed to Xenopus S10 on a nitrocellulose strip, which was incubated with another strip containing separated heavy and light chains from Xenopus IgM. Antibodies migrated from the strip carrying S10 to the light chains, but not the heavy chains, on the second strip. These results suggest that this unexpected cross-reaction is due to the sharing of one or more epitopes by Xenopus immunoglobulin light chains and the ribosomal protein, S10.
Statin Rebound or Withdrawal Syndrome: Does It Exist?

Studies in vascular cells in culture and in laboratory animals revealed that statin discontinuation triggers a rebound deterioration of vascular function. Retrospective studies of patients admitted with an acute coronary syndrome revealed that stopping statins during the first days of admission was associated with worse outcomes. In a prospective, randomized controlled trial in patients with a hemispheric ischemic stroke, stopping statins for 3 days was associated with a 4.7-fold increase in the risk of death or dependency, greater neurological deterioration, and a larger infarct volume. Discontinuing statins during the post-operative period following major vascular surgery was associated with a higher incidence of myocardial ischemia, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death. However, no increase in adverse outcomes was observed in patients with stable chronic coronary artery disease following statin treatment discontinuation. Despite some study limitations, the bulk of the evidence suggests that under conditions of severe acute vascular stress, removal of statins must be contraindicated.
Computing & information sciences: the discipline, careers, and future directions

Computing Science refers to "the study of computers and what they can do - the inherent powers and limitations of abstract computers, the design and characteristics of real computers, and the innumerable applications of computers to solving problems". "Computing," however, is no longer a single profession; rather, it is a broad designation that extends well beyond the boundaries of traditional computer science. In this presentation, we have chosen the term computing and information sciences as a generalization of the earlier term computer science and engineering, to refer collectively to the various academic programs related to computers and to the manipulation and representation of information.Like other, more mature fields, the discipline has grown into a collection of related professions including computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, information technology, and information systems. These professions are related to but different from one another, and because they need to perform well and in concert, we must think of them as belonging to one discipline. We submit that, as an overarching discipline, computing and information sciences covers a complete spectrum, being concerned with understanding (science), designing (engineering), and applying (technology) computation, in all of its aspects, for the purpose of solving practical as well as abstract (theoretical) problems.We also contend that the computing and information sciences intellectual content of these programs can be synthesized by the grouping of topics into three fundamental knowledge areas, namely Interaction, Infrastructure, and Informatics. Termed "the three I's", these concepts form the foundation of a new breadth-first Ph.D. program and are pivotal to the structure of computing curricula. Briefly, interaction concerns the design and evaluation of computer-mediated experiences. Infrastructure provides the raw hardware and software technologies from which actual systems can be constructed. Informatics bridges the gap between interaction and infrastructure by focusing on the algorithmic solutions to process the data and to provide the results required by domain experts.The purpose of this talk is to bring all these aspects together and put them into perspective as we design new programs and address new challenges in the information age economy. Currently, he is focusing his experience in software engineering in the fields of embedded, ubiquitous systems, and security.
Days with pain and substance use disorders: is there an association?

Objectives:We investigated possible associations between pain frequency and the 5 most common substance use disorders: alcohol abuse/dependence, cocaine abuse/dependence, methamphetamine abuse/dependence, opioid abuse/dependence, and marijuana abuse/dependence.Methods:We used data from the Rural Sti
The Origin of Comets in the Solar Nebula: A Unified Model

Abstract Comets originated as icy planetesimals in the outer Solar System, as shown by dynamical studies and direct observation of objects in the Kuiper disk. Their nuclei have low strength consistent with “rubble pile” structure and inhomogeneities on scales of tens to hundreds of meters. These properties can be explained by their formation process in the solar nebula. I present results of numerical simulation of the growth of cometesimals, beginning with a uniform mixture of microscopic grains in the nebular gas. Coagulation and settling yield a thin, dense layer of small aggregates in the central plane of the nebula. Shear between this layer and the pressure-supported gas produces turbulence that initially inhibits gravitational instability. Particles grow by collisional coagulation; relative velocities are dominated by radial motion due to orbital decay induced by gas drag. The radial velocity dispersion further delays gravitational instability until the mean particle size reaches tens of meters. Lack of damping in the swarm of macroscopic particles limits gravitational instability to large scales that do not allow collapse to solid bodies. Collisional coagulation is responsible for growth even after instability occurs. The size distribution of cometesimals growing by drag-induced collisions develops a narrow peak in the range tens to hundreds of meters. This occurs because drag-induced velocities decrease with size in this range, while gravitational focusing is negligible. Impact velocities have a minimum at the transition from drag-driven to gravitational accretion at approximately kilometer sizes. Bodies accreted in this manner should have low mechanical strength and macroscopic voids in addition to small-scale porosity. They will be composed of structural elements having a variety of scales, but with some tendency for preferential sizes in the range ∼10–100 m. These properties are in good agreement with inferred properties of comets, which may preserve a physical record of their accretion.
Performance of APD-based binary PPM FSO systems

The bit error rate of direct-detection, avalanche photodiode (APD) based free-space optical (FSO) communication systems is studied. The system of interest utilizes pulse-position modulation (PPM) and is subjected to scintillation due to optical turbulence. A weak turbulence (clear-air) scenario is considered for which the received signal intensity may be modelled as a log-normal random process. To arrive at the desired results, it is assumed that the system utilizes binary PPM (BPPM) modulation scheme. Furthermore, it is assumed that the receiver thermal noise is non-negligible and that the average signal intensity is large enough to justify a Gaussian approximation at the receiver. Numerical results are presented for the BPPM case to shed light on the impact of turbulence on the overall performance.
c-myc protooncogene polypeptide expression in endometriosis.

The c- myc protooncogene and its polypeptide product are important regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation, and ovarian steroids are believed to stimulate growth of various uterine cell types through altered expression of the c- myc gene. To determine whether c- myc expression may also be involved in the growth and development of endometriosis, we assessed c- myc expression in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissue obtained from women undergoing surgery for endometriosis. Immunocytochemistry using a monoclonal antibody to the c- myc protein demonstrated positive staining of glandular and stromal cell nuclei, and cytoplasmic staining of glandular but not stromal cells in both eutopic and ectopic endometrium. These findings suggest that c- myc expression may be an important regulator of cell proliferation in endometriotic tissue.
Torsional vibrations of a circular disk on an infinite transversely isotropic medium

Abstract The forced torsional vibratory motion or a rigid body with a circular base on the surface of a transversely isotropic material is investigated by using the method of Hankel transform. The infinite integral involved is evaluated through a contour integration to be discontinuous in nature. The dynamic contact shear stress, the total applied torque, and the real-valued rotational displacement functions are calculated and expressed in terms of the frequency factor and the ratio of the anisotropic material constants. The resonant amplitudes and frequencies of vibration are shown to depend on the anisotropic material constants and the mass ratio.
Optical investigation of InGaAsN structures for photodetector applications

The optical properties of InGaAsN structures for the fabrication of photodetectors are investigated. An expression for the bulk bandgap as a function of the nitrogen fraction is obtained from x-ray diffraction, photoreflectance and photoluminescence measurements. Optical absorption of undoped MQW structures show that the cutoff wavelength is extended due to the presence of nitrogen. A functioning heterojunction phototransistor was fabricated. Photocurrent spectra show that a responsivity higher than 1.5 A/W is obtained with a cutoff wavelength of 1.16 micrometers . I-V measurements under different light levels show that a peak gain of 5 is obtained with a collector current of 260 (mu) A and a dark current lower than 2 nA with a 10V bias.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Video lecture format, student technological efficacy, and social presence in online courses

Online platforms are frequently used as an alternative environment for individuals to meet and engage in a variety of activities, like attending courses online. We examined the effect of adding social presence cues in online video lectures and technological efficacy on college students' perceived learning, class social presence, and perception that the videos aided learning. Participants rated their technological efficacy and completed an online class with video lectures that either included the video (image) of the instructor or not. The interaction between technological efficacy and video manipulation predicted lower ratings of perceived learning, social presence, and video usefulness, particularly for students with lower technological efficacy. A mediated-moderation analysis showed that, the interaction between person (efficacy) and media (instructor image in video vs. no image) predicted greater perceived learning through the mediators of perceived usefulness of videos, class interactivity, and felt comfort in the class.
Sleep and Pulmonary Hypertension

Sleep-related breathing disorders and pulmonary hypertension (PH) are inextricably linked, although the mechanisms of association are complex. Physiologic changes associated with sleep-related breathing disorders, including hypoxia, hypercoagulability, and systemic inflammation, may result in alterations in pulmonary hemodynamics. While sleep-disordered breathing in and of itself may not result in severe PH, it likely results in elevated pulmonary arterial pressures. Treatment of sleep-disordered breathing appears to improve pulmonary arterial pressures. Data are needed to determine if the treatment of sleep-disordered breathing will improve clinical outcomes of patients with PH.
Quantitative thermoelastic stress analysis

Thermoelastic stress analysis is a relatively new experimental method which shows considerable promise for quantitative NDT of structures such as aging aircrafts. Whereas most previous thermoelastic applications have been qualitative in nature, this paper emphasizes the ability to develop the technique into a practical, non-contacting, quantitative NDT method for analyzing actual engineering structures made of either isotropic or orthotropic materials and while in their operating environment.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
LIPASE MEDIATED SYNTHESIS OF LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT FLAVOR ESTERS

Screening 27 commercial lipases showed that enzymes from Candida cylindracea, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Mucor miehei (immobilized) promoted synthesis of selected low molecular weight esters in nonaqueous systems. Maximum production after 24 hr incubation was obtained with substrate concentrations of 0.05 mol/L for isopentyl acetate, 0.2 mol/L for ethyl butyrate and 0.3 mol/L for isopentyl butyrate. Yield of butyl butryate was almost 100% at acid substrate greater than 0.2 mol/L. Substrate inhibition was observed with P. fluorescens lipase but not with C. cylindracea or M. miehei lipases, up to 1 mol/L. Hexane, octane and decane could be used as reaction media except for ethyl butyrate synthesis where hexane was the medium of choice. Poor synthesis was achieved when methylene chloride was used.
Germanium-Rich Pentaruthenium Carbonyl Clusters Including Ru5(CO)11(μ-GePh2)4(μ5-C) and Its Reactions with Hydrogen

The reaction of Ru5(CO)15(μ5-C), 1, with Ph3GeH at 150 °C has yielded two new germanium-rich pentaruthenium cluster complexes: Ru5(CO)11(μ-CO)(μ-GePh2)3(μ5-C), 2; Ru5(CO)11(μ-GePh2)4(μ5-C), 3. Both compounds contain square pyramidal Ru5 clusters with GePh2 groups bridging three and four of the edges of the Ru5 square base, respectively. When treated with 1 equiv of Ph3GeH at 150 °C compound 2 is converted to 3. Reaction of 3 with H2 at 150 °C yielded Ru5(CO)10(μ-GePh2)4(μ5-C)(μ-H)2, 4, containing two hydride ligands and one less CO ligand. Reaction of 4 with hydrogen at 150 °C yielded the compound Ru5(CO)10(μ-GePh2)2(μ3-GePh)2(μ3-H)(μ4-CH), 5, by loss of benzene and conversion of two of the bridging GePh2 groups into triply bridging GePh groups. Compound 5 contains one triply bridging hydride ligand and a quadruply bridging methylidyne ligand formed by addition of one hydrogen atom to the carbido carbon atom.
Mechanisms That Contribute to the Development of Lymphoid Malignancies: Roles for Genetic Alterations and Cytokine Production

Recent studies have defined genetic alterations commonly associated with transformed lymphocytes. This review suggests roles for these alterations in the development of lymphoid neoplasms. Damage to the genes encoding proteins that function in intracellular signaling, transcription, or regulation of the cell cycle has been identified and linked at varying degrees to the progression of certain lymphoid malignancies. An understanding of the mechanistic consequences following such genetic alterations is essential to an understanding of the development of these lymphoid neoplasms. In contrast, it is also becoming clear that the dysregulated expression of proteins that are not genetically altered can also contribute to the progression of lymphoid malignancies. One such example is the excessive expression of "normal" lymphokines of cytokines which accompanies many lymphoproliferative diseases. The dysregulated expression of cytokines during malignancy can result in the augmentation of growth of transformed lymphocytes, as well as an alteration of the anti-tumor immune response. The latter mechanism is especially important because evasion of the impending immune response is a prerequisite for the progression of lymphoproliferative diseases. Taken together, this review supports the notion that the development of lymphoid malignancies is multifactorial, involving genetic alterations as well as dysregulated cytokine expression.
An Expanded Combined Evidence Approach to the Gavialis Problem Using Geometric Morphometric Data from Crocodylian Braincases and Eustachian Systems

The phylogenetic position of the Indian gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is disputed - morphological characters place Gavialis as the sister to all other extant crocodylians, whereas molecular and combined analyses find Gavialis and the false gharial (Tomistoma schlegelii) to be sister taxa. Geometric morphometric techniques have only begun to be applied to this issue, but most of these studies have focused on the exterior of the skull. The braincase has provided useful phylogenetic information for basal crurotarsans, but has not been explored for the crown group. The Eustachian system is thought to vary phylogenetically in Crocodylia, but has not been analytically tested. To determine if gross morphology of the crocodylian braincase proves informative to the relationships of Gavialis and Tomistoma, we used two- and three-dimensional geometric morphometric approaches. Internal braincase images were obtained using high-resolution computerized tomography scans. A principal components analysis identified that the first component axis was primarily associated with size and did not show groupings that divide the specimens by phylogenetic affinity. Sliding semi-landmarks and a relative warp analysis indicate that a unique Eustachian morphology separates Gavialis from other extant members of Crocodylia. Ontogenetic expansion of the braincase results in a more dorsoventrally elongate median Eustachian canal. Changes in the shape of the Eustachian system do provide phylogenetic distinctions between major crocodylian clades. Each morphometric dataset, consisting of continuous morphological characters, was added independently to a combined cladistic analysis of discrete morphological and molecular characters. The braincase data alone produced a clade that included crocodylids and Gavialis, whereas the Eustachian data resulted in Gavialis being considered a basally divergent lineage. When each morphometric dataset was used in a combined analysis with discrete morphological and molecular characters, it generated a tree that matched the topology of the molecular phylogeny of Crocodylia.
Transport of MOX fuel: continuous challenge

Abstract For 45 years TN International has been involved in the radioactive materials transportation field. Since the beginning the spent nuclear fuel transportation has been its core business. During all these years TN International, now part of AREVA, has been able to anticipate and fulfil the needs for new transport or storage casks design to fit the nuclear industry evolutions. A whole fleet of casks able to transport all the materials of the nuclear fuel cycle has been developed. This paper focuses on the casks used to transport the fresh and used mix oxide (MOX) fuel. To transport the fresh MOX boiling water reactor and pressurised water reactors fuel, TN International has developed two designs of casks: the MX 6 and the MX 8. These casks are and have been used to transport MOX fuel for French, German, Swiss and in a near future Japanese nuclear power plants. A complete set of baskets have been developed to optimise the loading in terms of integrated dose and also of course capacity. Mixed oxide use...
Drug testing welfare recipients-false positives, false negatives, unanticipated opportunities

Substance abuse and dependence are among the most common psychiatric disorders among pregnant and parenting women. These disorders among welfare recipients have attracted special concern. Chemical testing has been proposed to identify illicit drug use in this population. This analysis scrutinizes the potential value of drug testing, using recent data from the Women's Employment Study and the National Household Survey of Drug Abuse. One-fifth of recipients reported illicit substance use during the previous year. However, less than 5% satisfied diagnostic screening criteria for illicit drug dependence. Most recipients with psychiatric disorders or alcohol dependence reported no recent illicit drug use, and, thus, would not be detected through chemical tests. Although illicit drug users are rarely dependent, many face barriers to self-sufficiency. Screening and assessment programs should distinguish use from dependence, and should also identify alcohol dependence and psychiatric disorders. States should provide a range of treatment services to address these concerns.
Anisotropic nanocrystal arrays organized on protein lattices formed by recombinant clathrin fragments

Recombinant clathrin protein fragments form assemblies that template gold nanocrystals in an array across the latticed surface. The nanocrystals exhibit unusual anisotropic morphologies with long range ordering, both of which are dependent upon the presence of a hexahistidine tag on the clathrin heavy chain fragments.
What Do We Really Know about Online Searchers

Many panel discussions and public presentations and miles of lines of print have been devoted in recent years to the question of what distinguishes a good online searcher from everyone else. Much of this verbiage appears somewhat self‐aggrandizing; searchers have been telling other searchers that it requires an extra special sort of person to do this job well. Online searching, it has been claimed, demands the very best people—intelligent, self‐confident, but also sympathetic and understanding, creative, and so on. Ordinary librarians cannot hope to excel at this complex and challenging task.
Quantitative autoradiographic distribution of [3H]mazindol-labeled dopamine uptake sites in the brains of superoxide dismutase transgenic mice.

Abstract Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an important enzyme which is involved in the dismutation of the toxic radical, Superoxide anion. The activity of CuZnSOD is increased in patients who suffer from Down's Syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, and in Parkinson's disease. In order to evaluate the contribution of this enzyme to the neuropathology of these neurodegenerative diseases, transgenic mice have been constructed which express the human CuZnSOD gene. As a first step towards exploring these issues, we have carried out an autoradiographic binding study of the distribution of the catecholaminergic uptake blocker mazindol in the brain of these transgenic mice and of their littermates. Desmethylimipramine (DMI)-insensitive [ 3 H]mazindol binding sites which correspond to dopamine uptake sites were located in the striatum, the nucleus accumbens, the olfactory tubercle and in the substantia nigra. Within the striatum, there was a lateromedial gradient, with higher concentration of dopamine uptake sites being found laterally. These findings suggest that subregions of the basal ganglia may be more susceptible to the deleterious effects of dopaminotoxic drugs which are taken up into the dopaminergic neurons via these uptake sites. Saturation experiments revealed no differences in the characteristics of [ 3 H]mazindol binding sites between the two groups of mice. Thus, increased activity of SOD is not associated with diffuse changes in the molecular structures of receptors in mice brain.
Recurrent remodeling after ventricular assistance: Is long-term myocardial recovery attainable?

Background. Long-term left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have been used both as a bridge to heart transplantation and to recovery of native myocardial function. Despite much evidence for reversal of some of the structural and functional changes present in the failing heart during LVAD support, clinical evidence for sustained myocardial recovery is scant. We describe 2 patients in whom myocardial recovery during LVAD support led to device explanation only to have heart failure recur. This necessitated a second LVAD implantation, a process that we have termed recurrent remodeling. Methods. The medical records of 2 patients with cardiomyopathy supported with HeartMate LVADs (Thermo Cardiosystems, Inc, Woburn, MA) were retrospectively reviewed. Results. One patient was supported with an LVAD for 2 months, at which time the LVAD was explanted. Progressive deterioration of cardiac function followed, requiring a second LVAD 19 months after LVAD explanation. After 2 months of further LVAD support, a second episode of apparent myocardial recovery was observed during a period of device malfunction. The other patient was supported with an LVAD for 12 months, at which time the LVAD was explanted. The patient experienced progressive hemodynamic deterioration and required a second LVAD 6 months after LVAD explantation. Heart transplantations of both patients were successful. Conclusions. Our understanding of myocardial recovery in the setting of hemodynamic unloading with LVAD support has not yet progressed to the point where we are able to accurately predict successful long-term LVAD explantation. The evolution of reliable predictors of sustainable myocardial recovery will help to avoid further cases of recurrent remodeling requiring repeat LVAD implantation.
Effect of surface wettability on fast transient microboiling behavior

Microboiling events associated with the fast transient heating of a micrometer-scale metallic thin film heater immersed in water have been studied. The effect of surface properties on the microboil...
Pten-uating neural growth.

Conditional deletion of the Pten tumor suppressor gene in the nervous system demonstrates that Pten is an important regulator of proliferation in neural stem cells and soma size in neurons.
Psychopathy-Related Traits Predict Self-Reported Sexual Aggression Among College Men

To examine whether personality traits related to psychopathy predict specific forms of sexual aggression in college men, a sample of 378 men completed the Sexual Experiences Survey (SES), the Socialization Scale, and the Narcissistic Personality Inventory. Psychopathy Checklist ratings were also available for 63 of these men based on a brief interview. The SES is a self-report measure designed to assess a spectrum of sexually aggressive behavior, ranging from use of argument or a position of power to impel participation in sexual activity, through manipulative intoxication and exploitation of intoxicated persons, to threatening and/or using force. Regression analyses indicated that measures of both dimensions of psychopathy identified in previous research accounted for variance in self-reports of sexual aggression. Moreover, although moderately correlated, the two dimensions predicted different forms of sexual aggression. Implications for studying psychopathic traits in college samples are discussed.
A retention mechanism for distribution of mitochondria during cell division in budding yeast

Abstract Mitochondria are indispensable for normal eukaryotic cell function. As they cannot be synthesized de novo and are self-replicating, mitochondria must be transferred from mother to daughter cells. Studies in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae indicate that mitochondria enter the bud immediately after bud emergence, interact with the actin cytoskeleton for linear, polarized movement of mitochondria from mother to bud, but are equally distributed among mother and daughter cells [1–3]. It is not clear how the mother cell maintains its own supply of mitochondria. Here, we found that mother cells retain mitochondria by immobilization of some mitochondria in the ‘retention zone', the base of the mother cell distal to the bud. Retention requires the actin cytoskeleton as mitochondria colocalized with actin cables in the retention zone, and mutations that perturb actin dynamics or actin–mitochondrial interactions produced retention defects. Our results support the model that equal distribution of mitochondria during cell division is a consequence of two actin-dependent processes: movement of some mitochondria into the daughter bud and immobilization of others in the mother cell.
Pc-matrices and the linear complementarity problem

Abstract We introduce a new matrix class Pc, which consists of those matrices M for which the solution set of the corresponding linear complementarity problem is connected for every q ϵ Rn. We consider Lemke's pivotal method from the perspective of piecewise linear homotopies and normal maps and show that Lemke's method processes all matrices in Pc ∩ Q0. We further investigate the relationship of the class Pc to other known matrix classes and show that column sufficient matrices are a subclass of Pc, as are 2 × 2 P0-matrices.
Music works: Music for adult English language learners

The unique magic of music in the English language learning classroom is explored, with emphasis on research, learning objectives, and rewards that come from using music regularly.
A history of drug development in four acts.

• The future of pharmaceutical discovery is unclear in light of unique trends in marketing and R&D allocations.
Genetic analyses of the mouse deafness mutations varitint-waddler (Va) and jerker (Espnje).

Genetic studies on spontaneous mouse mutants with hearing defects have provided important insights into the function of genes expressed in inner ear hair cells. Here we report on our genetic analyses of the deaf mutants varitint-waddler (Va) and jerker (Espnje). A high-resolution genetic map localizes VaJ to a 0.14 ± 0.08 cM region between D3Mit85 and D3Mit259 on distal chromosome 3. By comparative mapping, the human ortholog resides at 1p22.3 between markers D1S3449 and D1S2252. To study the effect of different genetic backgrounds on the hearing phenotype, Espnje and VaJ were crossed to various inbred strains. Auditory-evoked brainstem response tests on F2 progeny demonstrate that expression, inheritance, and penetrance of the hearing phenotype are solely controlled by the mutant allele. To test for a genetic interaction between Espnje and Cdh23v, auditory function was analyzed in double heterozygotes; no significant increases of thresholds of sound pressure levels were observed. The results establish the framework for cloning the Va gene and provide valuable insights into the genetics of deafness mutations in the mouse.
Divorce and sex.

Studies on the sex lives of the divorced are relatively few and somewhat dated. Although they give a rather optimistic view of the subject, this research is flawed by high respondent refusal rates and poor representativeness of samples. Further, a major gap in this literature is that the possible predictors of sexual activity of the divorced remain largely unexplored. The present study, using national data on 340 divorced people, indicates a much lower level of sexual activity than found in past research. Regression analyses find that both number of partners and sex frequency are related to religiosity, education, and political liberality. Future research can explore the impact of low sexual activity among the divorced on indicators of emotional well-being.
Status of the Gruneisen constant

As a special workshop at the recent meeting of the International Association of Seismology and Physics of the Earth's Interior (IASPEI) in London, Ontario, geophysicist H. H. Schloessin organized a sequence of discussions on ‘gamma,’ the thermodynamic parameter first derived in 1926 by E. Gruneisen. The Gruneisen parameter is known to all geophysicists as the less than perfect constant that relates volume and thermal energy properties of a substance in geophysical systems at high pressure, ranging from shock-wave environments to that along the temperature gradient of the earth's lower mantle and core. Derivations and applications of Gruneisen's gamma lean heavily on the fundamentals of quantum and statistical physical theory. The necessary simplicity of the atomic systems for which the scope of the theory applies, and the incredible complexity of its very theoretical basis, have severely limited gamma's practicality for most substances. Furthermore, the geophysical literature is always abreast of the latest cases where a given application of gamma has again failed.
Delayed plumage maturation in socially isolated juvenile zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata

We investigated the effect of social variables on the regulation of the moult from juvenile to adult plumage in male zebra finches. Males reared in social isolation after day 31 after hatching retained their juvenile plumage until day 90; if then placed in a colony setting, they developed the typical male plumage in 2–3 weeks. The isolation-induced delay in male plumage resulted from a delay in the juvenile moult. Social isolates that could trigger song playbacks by pecking at a key developed male plumage at the same time as controls. We suggest that a nongonadal mechanism sensitive to social variables normally ensures that adult male plumage is acquired in zebra finches during the weeks leading up to sexual maturity. This is the first report of a social effect on moult.
Why computer forensic professionals shouldn't be required to have private investigator licenses

I am a lawyer. I wear different hats on different days – professor, consultant, forensic practitioner – but my primary professional training is as a lawyer. It takes significant time and effort to obtain a license to practice law. First, you apply for law school. Then you attend law school. Finally, you graduate and take a bar examination for every state in which you intend to practice. If you pass, as I did, then you get the opportunity to pay your fees and get a license to practice law. As such, I am comfortable with reasonable licensing requirements. Recently, in the United States there has been a push to require computer forensic professionals to become licensed as private investigators. In my humble opinion that is a very bad idea. There are many reasons why computer forensic professionals should not be required to be licensed private investigators. Below, please find a few to which I would like to draw your attention. Requiring licensure will limit the Field unnecessarily as there are too many potential jurisdictions to allow the average practitioner to be licensed in every jurisdiction. It appears that 8 states do not license private investigators. As late as April of this year only six states had specifically required computer forensic professionals to be licensed as private investigators (White and Micheletti, 2008). However, 42 states have laws on the books that are unclear on this subject. If you accept the premise that you could potentially be asked to testify anywhere once you start a case (can you predict the future?), then any computer forensics investigator must be licensed to
Maintenance and generalization of 40-Hz EEG biofeedback effects.

Maintenance of conditioning of 40-Hz EEG activity was investigated in six adults 1 to 3 years after they had experienced biofeedback training to increase 40-Hz EEG. Subjects were first retrained to alternately increase and suppress 40-Hz EEG. All six subjects achieved a preset performance criterion in 16–20 minutes. Five of these subjects also subsequently demonstrated significant control of 40-Hz EEG without feedback. The sixth subject did not demonstrate control after 76 minutes and four sessions of attempted retraining with feedback. Transfer of 40-Hz EEG control to a problem-solving task was tested in all subjects in a final session. Cognitive test items were presented and subjects were instructed to alternately increase and suppress 40-Hz EEG while solving the problems. Rates of 40-Hz EEG in suppression periods during problem solving were significantly greater than during suppression periods without problems. No significant differences in problem-solving performance were found comparing 40-Hz increase and suppression periods. This study supports previous research suggesting an association between 40-Hz EEG and mental activity, and suggests methods for further study of transfer of EEG biofeedback effects.
An analysis for estimating the variation of the temperature profile through a bearing clearance

Abstract This analysis estimates the variation in the temperature profile of a fluid as it moves through a bearing clearance using a simple formula; it also enables a physical interpretation of the commonly used Peclet number. The main use envisaged is for planning the numerical analysis of a bearing. A through flow spiral grooved thrust bearing is used as an example.
Complications after uterine artery embolization for leiomyomas.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency and severity of complications that occur as a result of uterine artery embolization for leiomyomas. METHODS: As part of an ongoing study of outcome after uterine embolization, prospective data regarding complications that occurred in 400 consecutive patients were gathered. Each patient had a minimum of a 3-month interval from the procedure at the time of analysis. Each complication was categorized and graded as to severity and outcome using the complication classification developed by the Society of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology (SCVIR) and a modified set of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) criteria for complications of hysterectomy and myomectomy. All adverse events that occurred during the follow-up period were included, including those that occurred after the 3-month minimum interval. Confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for each complication. RESULTS: There were no deaths and no major permanent injuries. One patient required hysterectomy as a result of a complication, and one patient had an undiagnosed leiomyosarcoma. There were ten in-hospital complications and an additional 27 complications within the first 30 days, with 34 patients experiencing a periprocedural complication for a rate of 8.5% (95% CI 6.0%, 11.7%). There were five serious complications (SCVIR class D), comprising 1.25% (95% CI 0.3%, 2.5%) of the study group. Using ACOG definitions for perioperative complications, the overall morbidity was 5% (95% CI 3.1%, 7.7%). CONCLUSION: The short-term complication rate was low in women undergoing uterine embolization.
THE MICROMEASUREMENT OF FREE ERYTHROCYTE PORPHYRIN (FEP) AS A MEANS OF DIFFERENTIATING ALPHA-THALASSEMIA TRAIT FROM IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Microcytosis occurs in children with iron deficiency anemia, lead poisoning and thalassemia. To differentiate these disorders, it has been necessary to quantitatively measure serum iron, transferrin saturation, serum lead levels, hemoglobin A2 and F levels. Piomelli has screened for lead poisoning and Oski has differentiated beta-thalassemia from iron deficiency anemia by measuring free erythrocyte porphyrins (FEP). We have used the micromeasurement of FEP to differentiate alphathalassemia from iron deficiency. The method used is a modification of that described by Piomelli et al. (Pediatrics 51: 254, 1973). Eighteen individuals with previously diagnosed alpha-thalassemia have had FEP and serum iron and transferrin saturation levels determined. Twelve individuals with alpha-thalassemia and normal transferrin saturation studies had FEP below 90 ugms/100 ml of Rbc's. Six individuals with documented iron deficiency and alphathalassemia had FEP greater than 130 ugms/100 ml as did individuals with uncomplicated iron deficiency. Micromeasurement of Rbc FEP provides a rapid means of differentiating iron deficiency from thalassemia with normal transferrin saturations. However, when alphathalassemia and iron deficiency occur together, alphathalassemia cannot be proven until the iron deficiency is corrected.
Territorial prior residence effect versus intruder size advantage in convict cichlids (Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum Günther)

The consequences of an intruder size advantage on the territorial prior residence effect were investigated using resident-intruder pairs in which the intruder was 10%-20%, 25%-35%, or 40%-50% larger than the resident fish. Regardless of the magnitude of the size advantage, intruders established dominance in every pair in which any aggression occurred and delivered significantly more attacks (bites) than did residents. Apparently, an intruder size advantage (fighting ability asymmetry) can overwhelm the territorial prior residence effect (uncorrelated asymmetry) relatively easily.