cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lafora disease: Current biology and therapeutic approaches.

Abstract The ubiquitin system impacts most cellular processes and is altered in numerous neurodegenerative diseases . However, little is known about its role in neurodegenerative diseases due to disturbances of glycogen metabolism such as Lafora disease (LD). In LD, insufficiently branched and long-chained glycogen forms and precipitates into insoluble polyglucosan bodies (Lafora bodies), which drive neuroinflammation , neurodegeneration and epilepsy. LD is caused by mutations in the gene encoding the glycogen phosphatase laforin or the gene coding for the laforin interacting partner ubiquitin E3 ligase malin. The role of the malin-laforin complex in regulating glycogen structure remains with full of gaps. In this review we bring together the disparate body of data on these two proteins and propose a mechanistic hypothesis of the disease in which malin-laforin's role to monitor and prevent over-elongation of glycogen branch chains, which drive glycogen molecules to precipitate and accumulate into Lafora bodies. We also review proposed connections between Lafora bodies and the ensuing neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration and intractable epilepsy . Finally, we review the exciting activities in developing therapies for Lafora disease based on replacing the missing genes, slowing the enzyme – glycogen synthase – that over-elongates glycogen branches, and introducing enzymes that can digest Lafora bodies. Much more work is needed to fill the gaps in glycogen metabolism in which laforin and malin operate. However, knowledge appears already adequate to advance disease course altering therapies for this catastrophic fatal disease.
Mechanisms for control of skin immune function by the microbiome

The skin represents the largest area for direct contact between microbes and host immunocytes and is a site for constant communication between the host and this diverse and essential microbial community. Coagulase-negative staphylococci are an abundant bacterial genus on the human skin and are regulated through various mechanisms that include the epidermal barrier environment and innate and adaptive immune systems within the epidermis and dermis. In turn, some species and strains of these bacteria produce beneficial products that augment host immunity by exerting specifically targeted antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, or anti-neoplastic activity while also promoting broad innate and adaptive immune responses. The use of selected skin commensals as a therapeutic has shown promise in recent human clinical trials. This emerging concept of bacteriotherapy is defining mechanisms of action and validating the dependence on the microbiome for maintenance of immune homeostasis.
Nyquist-Rate Photonic Analog-to-Digital Conversion

Photonic A/D conversion brings the potential advantages of photonics technology to the application of A/D conversion. Ultra-fast optical nonlinearities and high-speed optical sampling provide some of the key building blocks necessary to achieve high-speed and high-resolution A/D conversion. In an effort to achieve higher performance A/D conversion, there have been a number of applications of photonic technologies to the problem of A/D conversion. In this chapter, we provide an overview of some early applications and several recent extensions of these early approaches of photonics technology to A/D conversion.
No brokeback for black men: pathologizing black male (homo)sexuality through down low discourse

In recent years, the down low phenomenon has received unprecedented attention in both the popular and academic press. However, much of this work has focused on exploring whether men on the down low present a unique threat for HIV infection to black women. Currently, there exist very few scholarly or popular works exploring the meaning attached to the down low, not only by those who promote the label for academic studies or for media dispersal. In this essay, I shed new light on the meanings attached to the down low by the popular press, critically evaluating how it is used to create a category that is marked by an undesirable categorization of black men, and provide an argument as to why black men who have sex with men may adopt the label for themselves.
Testicular Size, Mating System, and Maturation Schedules in Wild Anubis and Hamadryas Baboons

We report body mass and testicular size in 258 anubis (Papio anubis or P. hamadryas anubis) and 59 hamadryas (P. hamadryas or P. h. hamadryas) baboons, live-trapped in Ethiopia. As predicted by theories of sexual selection by sperm competition, among hamadryas baboons, which are monandrous, fully adult males have absolutely and relatively smaller testes than those of comparable males among anubis baboons, which are polyandrous. Male hamadryas are also ca. 10% smaller in bodily mass as adults. The intertaxonal difference in adults is due entirely to the fact that in male anubis baboons, testicular and bodily mass continue to grow up to full adulthood–the age at which most males emigrate from their natal troop and initiate a confrontational breeding strategy among unrelated animals. By contrast, male hamadryas baboons, which are usually philopatric, attain adult body mass and testicular size as subadults. In both species, juveniles experience rapid testicular growth peaking in rate at ca. 12kg body mass, but testicular descent and growth starts earlier in hamadryas than in anubis baboons. Juvenile hamadryas baboons have relatively larger testes than their anubis equivalents, perhaps because male philopatry allows the mating strategy of male hamadryas baboons to be initiated during juvenile life and therefore permits some sperm competition between juveniles and adults.
Effect of solution chemistry on coagulation with hydrolyzed Al(III): Significance of sulfate ion and pH

Abstract A laboratory, jar test-type study was conducted to determine the effect of pH and the background sulfate ion concentration on flocculation efficiency when aluminium salts and kaolin clay are used. The results obtained have been used to develop a conceptual model which helps explain the relative significance of these variables in the flocculation process.
Perioperative anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy in renal transplant: is there an increase in bleeding complication?

Eng M, Brock G, Li X, Chen Y, Ravindra KV, Buell JF, Marvin MR. Perioperative anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy in renal transplant: is there an increase in bleeding complication? Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 292–296. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Abstract: Background: Renal transplant recipients may have comorbidities requiring anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. While the effects of warfarin may be neutralized with plasma infusion, those of aspirin and clopidogrel are not easily reversible and may be associated with an increased risk of bleeding. We conducted this study to evaluate the risk of bleeding complications in patients receiving perioperative anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Methods: Medical records of patients who underwent renal transplantation from July 1, 2005 to April 30, 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients receiving perioperative anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy were identified. The incidence of reoperation, transfusion utilization and decrease in serum hemoglobin from pre-operative value (ΔHgb) were compared to those on no therapy. Results: Of the 327 patients identified, 105 received pre-operative anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy, 28 received therapy post-operatively, while 213 patients received no therapy. The incidence of reoperation, transfusion utilization and ΔHgb were not significantly increased with pre-operative anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. With post-operative heparin infusion, the incidence of reoperation and transfusion utilization were significantly increased (p values 80 s experienced significant bleeding complications. Conclusion: A supratherapeutic aPTT with post-operative heparin infusion was associated with the greatest risk of bleeding complication.
The Nonuniform Distribution of the GABAA Receptor α1 Subunit Influences Inhibitory Synaptic Transmission to Motoneurons within a Motor Nucleus

Using immunohistochemistry we studied the distribution of GABAA and glycine receptor α1 subunits in the rat hypoglossal nucleus during postnatal development. In the neonate [postnatal day (P) 1–3] and adult nucleus (P28–30), GABAA receptor α1 subunit labeling was relatively modest. However, in the juvenile nucleus (P9–13), labeling was strong in the ventrolateral region and moderate in the dorsal region. Glycine receptor α1 subunit labeling was strong and uniform in the juvenile and adult nucleus and absent in the neonate nucleus. GABA and glycine neurotransmitter labeling was uniform throughout the neonatal and juvenile nucleus. To study the functional consequences of this regional differential GABAA receptor α1 subunit distribution, we voltage clamped juvenile hypoglossal motoneurons (HMs) from the ventrolateral and dorsal regions and recorded spontaneous miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs). Pure GABAergic events had slower decay times than glycinergic events. Although pure GABAergic and glycinergic decay times did not differ depending on HM location, the decays of mixed mIPSCs from ventrolateral HMs, recorded without GABAA and glycine receptor antagonists, had significantly slower decays than mIPSCs from dorsal HMs. Focally applied GABA and glycine onto outside-out patches revealed that the GABAergic to glycinergic peak current amplitude ratio was larger for patches from ventrolateral HMs compared with dorsal HMs. Dual component mIPSCs, presumably caused by co-release of GABA and glycine, were recorded more frequently in the ventrolateral nucleus. These data suggest that the number of synapses using GABAA receptor-mediated transmission is greater on ventrolateral HMs than dorsal HMs, demonstrating a nonuniformity of synaptic function within a defined motor nucleus.
Restoration of Ig Secretion: Mutation of Germline-Encoded Residues in T15L Chains Leads to Secretion of Free Light Chains and Assembled Antibody Complexes Bearing Secretion-Impaired Heavy Chains

We previously described T15H chain mutants that were impaired in assembly with L chain and in ability to be secreted from the cell. The unmutated T15L chain is unusual in that it is secretion-impaired in the absence of assembly with H chain. The T15L chain preferentially pairs with T15H in vivo, suggesting that if we introduced mutations that would allow secretion of free T15L chain, they might also lead to the secretion of the complex with the defective H chain. We mutated four positions in the germline T15L that had amino acids infrequently found in other κ-chains. Mutation to the most frequently occurring amino acid at three of the four positions allowed secretion of free L chain, while the combination of two secretion-restoring mutations was synergistic. Coexpression of secretion-restored mutant L chains with the secretion-defective mutant H chains rescued secretion of the assembled H 2 L 2 complex, suggesting that during somatic hypermutation in vivo, deleterious mutations at the H chain may be compensated by mutations on the L chain. To our knowledge, this is the first example of mutations in IgL chains that are able to restore secretion-defective H chains to secretion competence in mammalian cells.
Environmental pollution and pregnancy: Risks and uncertainties for the fetus and infant

Numerous environmental contaminants can affect the developing embryo, fetus, or infant. This essay explores such questions as these: What is the importance in mutagenesis and teratogenesis of macroenvironmental pollutants such as the heavy metals, dioxin derivatives, polychlorinated diphenyl compounds, and pesticides? What is the significance of microenvironmental pollutants (or social environmental factors) such as tobacco smoke, alcohol, and pharmacologic agents over which exposed individuals have considerable control? What are some of the ethical and legal implications of these toxins of which clinicians should be aware?
A first generation generic system simulator (GENESYS) and its relation to the NTRS

The National Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (NTRS) presents projections and goals for microelectronics over the next fifteen years. A set of physical and empirical models encompassing material, device, circuit, architecture, interconnection, and packaging characteristics that describe microelectronic systems have been captured in the first generation of GENESYS, a GENEric SYstem Simulator. From technology parameters projected in the NTRS, GENESYS predicts maximum clock frequency, physical size, power dissipation, and packaging requirements of an ASIC. The outputs of GENESYS are compared to the on-chip clock frequency, chip size, and maximum power projections of the NTRS for ASICs, and then used both to calibrate GENESYS and to subject the NTRS projections to self-consistency checks.
A graphical method to assess treatment-covariate interactions using the Cox model on subsets of the data

We introduce the subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot (STEPP) method, designed to facilitate the interpretation of estimates of treatment effect derived from different but potentially overlapping subsets of clinical trial data. In particular, we consider sequences of subpopulations defined with respect to a covariate, and obtain confidence bands for the collection of treatment effects (here obtained from the Cox proportional hazards model) associated with the sequences. The method is aimed at determining whether the magnitude of the treatment effect changes as a function of the values of the covariate. We apply STEPP to a breast cancer clinical trial data set to evaluate the treatment effect as a function of the oestrogen receptor content of the primary tumour.
Linear and Nonlinear Procedures in Isoconversional Computations of the Activation Energy of Nonisothermal Reactions in Solids

An integral isoconversional method provides a linear procedure to estimate the activation energy (Eα) at a given conversion (α) but only when an oversimplified approximation of the temperature inte...
Lipid A diversity and the innate host response to bacterial infection.

Abstract Lipopolysaccharide, a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is a potent immunostimulatory molecule which activates the innate host defense system. Over the past few years progress has been made in identifying the molecular mechanisms of host recognition of lipid A (a component of lipopolysaccharide), the identification of the genes requried for Escherichia coli lipid A biosynthesis, and the role of lipid A acylation when viable bacteria are presented to host cells. Recent data indicate that bacteria can regulate this molecule in response to different host microenvironments. Host factors that induce lipid A modifications and the resultant changes in host response remain to be determined.
Gene expression profiling in lymphoma diagnosis and management

The classification of lymphoid malignancies has evolved from a purely morphological scheme to the current WHO (World Health Organization) classification, which takes into consideration histological, immunophenotypic, genetic and clinical information. DNA microarray technology enables the simultaneous determination of the expression levels for thousands of genes (gene expression profile; GEP) and provides a powerful approach for investigating lymphoma biology and improving disease classification. Distinct molecular signatures for many lymphomas, as well as novel lymphoma subtypes have been identified. Molecular prognosticators have also been constructed. Many of the molecular subgroups of lymphoma also show distinct patterns of genetic abnormalities. We also briefly review the application of other genome-wide techniques to the study of lymphomas, such as high resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and next-generation sequencing, and how these technologies will complement each other in improving our understanding of the pathobiology of lymphoma. Specific therapeutic targets will likely emerge from the increased insight into the molecular pathogenesis of the different lymphomas, thus illustrating the utility of these global studies in advancing disease management strategies.
High Stability Solvent Impregnated Resins: Metal Ion Complexation as a Function of Time

Abstract Solvent impregnated resin (SIR) beads with bis(2‐ethylhexyl)hydrogen phosphate (DEHPA) as the complexant have been coated with a semi‐permeable membrane consisting of poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐N,N′‐methylene‐bis(acrylamide)). The coated SIR beads have been studied through six contact/regeneration cycles with no loss of complexing ability, in contrast to the behavior of uncoated SIR beads. The semi‐permeable membrane does not hinder the complexation of Cu(II) ions: results with the coated SIR beads are identical at 15 min and 24 hr contact times.
Tracking in anatomic pathology.

Bar code–based tracking solutions, long present in clinical pathology laboratories, have recently made an appearance in anatomic pathology (AP) laboratories. Tracking of AP “assets” (specimens, blo...
Poly-(2-methylaniline): The effect of chemical modification on the insulator/conductor transitions of polyaniline

Abstract A comparison of the optical absorption spectra of poly-(2-methylaniline) and polyaniline was made to determine the effect of methyl substitution on its properties. We construct a pH-potential phase diagram and show that the effect of this structural modification is to shift the phase boundaries of insulator/conductor transitions on the phase diagram. The results imply that methyl substitution de-stabilizes the conductive form relative to that of the insulator forms. The de-stabilization may due to the increased steric energy in the molecular conformation for the conductor.
Tourism stakeholders attitudes toward sustainable development: A case in the Arctic

Abstract This research attempts to explore tourism stakeholders’ attitudes toward the practices of sustainability in Arctic destinations that have been regarded as sacred and pristine places that are susceptible to the influx of tourists. A mixed-method approach involving qualitative and quantitative studies is deployed in the Scandinavian Arctic region to facilitate data collection on three groups of tourism stakeholders: residents, tourists, and tourism operators. From the qualitative study, stakeholder attitudes toward environmental protection and cultural preservation emerge as the exogenous variable influencing the practices of sustainability. A host of questionnaire surveys is conducted at various Arctic destinations and results in 593 questionnaires are used for further data analyses. This research finds that among the three groups of stakeholders studied, tourists exhibit the strongest interest in sustainable tourism development in the Arctic region. Further, path analyses demonstrate that a positive attitude toward cultural preservation is considered as the driving force in promoting sustainable operations in Arctic destinations. A positive attitude toward environmental protection also prompts the stakeholders to consider setting a limit for tourism development in the Arctic.
Delay line readout of microchannel plates in a prototype position-sensitive photomultiplier tube

Abstract A two dimensional delay line anode has been developed for high resolution readout of large format microchannel plates (MCPs). We describe the construction and attenuation properties of the readout, as well as its spatial resolution and image linearity. The delay line readout has been successfully incorporated into a small sealed prototype phototube along with a bialkali photocathode and chevron pair of 40 mm diameter MCPs. The tube's spatial resolution is evaluated and compared with the theoretical value predicted from the summation of the contributions from the individual tube components. Image distortions are found to be small and confined to the periphery of the active area.
Influence of the coating thickness on the cooling rates of plasma-sprayed particles impinging on a substrate☆

Abstract Thermal histories of plasma-sprayed molybdenum particles during and after impingement on different substrates were monitored using a fast two-colour pyrometer and the influence of the coating thickness on the lamella cooling rate was investigated. The cooling rate was found to increase with coating thickness owing to the low thermal resistance at the molybdenum-molybdenum lamella interfaces and to the relatively high thermal conductivity of the sprayed molybdenum lamellae. The lower cooling rates observed at the coating-substrate interface were associated with changes in the lamella microstructure, the lamellae within the coating having a columnar structure while this structure was absent in lamellae at the coating-substrate interface.
Measurements of the solar soft x-ray irradiance from the Student nitric oxide Explorer

Beginning on March 11, 1998, the Student Nitric Oxide Explorer (SNOE) satellite has made daily observations of the solar soft x-ray irradiance. These measurements are carried out by a multi-channel photometer system utilizing x-ray sensitive photodiodes with individual thin film filters. Current from the photodiodes is analyzed in terms of a solar reference spectrum in order to determine solar irradiances. The irradiances from 2 to 10 nm vary between 0.15 and 0.40 ergs cm -2 s -1 from March 1 to July 19, 1998 while the solar 10.7 cm fluxes varied between 85 and 140 ×10 -22 W m -2 Hz -1 . A 27-day periodicity is observed with variations in the soft x-ray irradiance on the order of a factor of two. The measured irradiances are shown to be correlated with the solar 10.7 cm flux but only mildly so with the GOES-8 0.1 to 0.8 nm solar fluxes.
Side Effects of Atypical Antipsychotics: Extrapyramidal Symptoms and the Metabolic Syndrome

In this article we examine the two major classes of side effects with atypical antipsychotics: extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and the metabolic syndrome (the triad of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, with associated obesity). We conclude that atypical antipsychotics continue to have notable risks of EPS, particularly akathisia, and that these agents also appear to increase the risk of the metabolic syndrome, though this effect seems most marked with clozapine and olanzapine. Novel conclusions based on this review are as follows: we provide a classification scheme based on low versus high D2 binding affinity (which is, to our knowledge, a new means of classifying atypical antipsychotics); we emphasize that the akathisia risk is likely equal among agents and that tardive dyskinesia is an early, and not late, risk in treatment (a common misconception); we make the methodological point that in randomized clinical trials, there is a high risk of false-negatives regarding side effects; we raise the issue of confounding bias in epidemiological studies of metabolic syndrome; and we stress the need to compare side effects in the same studies and not different studies. Future prospective observational cohort studies must target side effects and be designed to collect and analyze data on confounding factors.
In Vitro Release of Endogenous Amino Acids from Granule Cell‐, Stellate Cell‐, and Climbing Fiber‐Deficient Cerebella

: The K+-stimulated, Ca2+-dependent release of glutamate, aspartate, -γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), alanine, taurine, and glycine was measured in slices of cerebella obtained from control, and granule cell-, granule cell plus stellate cell-, or climbing fiber-deficient cerebella of the rat. The 55 mm-K+-stimulated release of glutamate and GABA was 10-fold greater in the presence of Ca2+ than in its absence. The stimulated release of aspartate was 4-fold higher when Ca2+ was present in the bathing media, while the value for alanine was twice as high as the amount obtained in the absence of Ca2+. There was no stimulated release of either taurine or glycine from the cerebellar slices. Increasing the Mg2+ concentration to 16 HIM inhibited the K+-stimulated, Ca2+-dependent release of glutamate, GABA, aspartate, and alanine 85% or more. The K+-stimulated, Ca2+ dependent release of glutamate, aspartate, and alanine from x-irradiated cerebella deficient in granule cells was reduced to 50–57% of control value. Additional x-irradiation treatment, which further reduced the cerebellar granule cell population and also prevented the acquisition of stellate cells, decreased the release of glutamate by 77%, aspartate by 66%, alanine by 91%, and, in addition, decreased the release of GABA by 55%. The K+-stimulated, Ca2+-dependent release of glutamate, aspartate, GABA, and alanine was not changed in climbing fiber-deficient cerebella obtained from 3-acetylpyridine-treated rats. The data support a transmitter role for GABA and glutamate in the cerebellum, but do not support a similar function for either taurine or glycine. The data also suggest that alanine and aspartate may be co-released along with glutamate from granule cells.
Infra-red spectra of hydroxyapatite, octacalcium phosphate and pyrolysed octacalcium phosphate.

Infra-red spectra of hydroxyapatite, octacalcium phosphate and pyrolysed octacalcium phosphate were studied in the range 4000-400 cm−1, and probable band assignments are given. Unreported bands were found for both octacalcium phosphate (thirteen bands) and hydroxyapatite (five bands); the hydroxyapatite band at 631 cm−1 was reassigned to the librational mode of the hydroxyl group. The pyrolysis reactions of octacalcium phosphate were studied by infra-red absorption, weight loss, and pyrophosphate analysis. Simple dehydration was continuous from 50 to about 400 °C. The major products between 325 and 600 °C were hydroxyapatite and β-Ca2P2O7; between 650 and 900 °C, the products were β-Ca2P2O7 and β-Ca3 (PO4)2. Formation of β-Ca2P2O7, instead of γ-Ca2P2O7, was detected at a lower temperature (325 °C) than has been reported. The maximum amount of pyrophosphate formed, about 40 per cent at 500 °C, was intermediate between the amounts predicted by reactions postulated in other studies. From 700 to 900 °C, the pyrophosphate content approximated the expected value.
Failure to Observe Alteration of Epinephrine Activity after Endotoxin

Conclusions1) The fact that potentiation of the action of epinephrine after small doses of endotoxin was observed only to a slight extent in the presence of barbiturate, and not at all when ether or decapitation without anesthesia was employed to prepare the ear for perfusion, leads us to question whether the effect described by Zweifach, Nagler and Thomas is actually a direct potentiating action of epinephrine. We have no explanation as to how endotoxin might antagonize a barbiturate effect. 2) One point is noteworthy, our preparations in general had a much lower control epinephrine threshold than those reported for the perfused rabbit ear by above mentioned workers. 3) Our results are entirely uniform in showing that no reversal of epinephrine action after the large doses of endotoxin occurred, even with barbiturate anesthesia. We have no explanation to offer for this failure to confirm Zweifach et al.
Conservation of iron and hemoglobin during induced hemolytic stress in the amphibian Taricha granulosa.

Abstract 1. 1. The capability of Taricha granulosa to conserve hemoglobin upon in vivo hemolysis has been investigated. 2. 2. 59Fe incorporation into Taricha hemoglobin was similar in rate to mammals and birds. 3. 3. Phenylhydrazine-induced hemolysis resulted in comparatively low levels of 59Fe and no discernible amounts of hemoglobin excreted after 10 days. 4. 4. The addition of 59Fe Hb to Taricha circulation resulted in relatively low levels of 59Fe excretion and significant amounts of 59Fe incorporation into new hemoglobin within 10 days.
Experience effect on initial orientation in pigeon homing

Abstract These results show that experience can effect the initial orientation of homing pigeons. A single release can cause quite a large deviation in the results of the next release. Even when the individual releases are varied in direction by sixty or more degrees to prevent a training in one direction, an accumulation of experience over several releases can create a deflection in headings determined by an average of the past experience. The direction of the deflection but not the amount is predictable. There is considerable variation in the amount depending on the release point used and the experience involved. Only three releases in a new sequence are sufficient to change the headings of birds thoroughly trained on an old sequence. Wallraff's suggestation that the northward trend in headings around Wilhelmshaven are due to lack of experience from the north is substantiated by the results.
Spatial patterns of historical overbank sedimentation and floodplain evolution, Blue river, Wisconsin

Abstract Increased soil erosion and overbank flooding associated with land use changes following European settlement have buried pre-settlement floodplain surfaces in many Driftless Area watersheds with as much as several meters of alluvium. This paper examines the processes influencing spatial variations in the storage of post-settlement vertical accretion alluvium and the impact on floodplain evolution in the Blue River watershed, Wisconsin. The cross-sectional area of historical vertical accretion sediments stored on floodplains was measured at 41 cross-valley transects in the 208 km2 watershed. The storage of historical overbank sediments is influenced by valley width, stream power, and the development of meander belts. Post-settlement alluvial storage increases with valley width and decreases with cross-sectional stream power. In a multivariate regression model, valley width and cross-sectional stream power explain 67% of the variance in the amount of post-settlement alluvium. The development of meander belts, enlarged channels confined between alluvial terraces, by accelerated lateral channel migration influences historical floodplain storage by decreasing the influence of valley width and modifying stream power characteristics for flows, greater than bankfull. Meander belts are located in headwater and mid-basin valley reaches where high stream power produces rapid lateral channel migration, whereas low gradient channels in downstream valleys lack the power necessary to migrate laterally and develop meander belts. Meander belts influence the spatial pattern of historical sedimentation by: (1) containing large magnitude floods and preventing overbank flow, (2) increasing sediment-transport capacities, (3) initiating the erosion of previously deposited historical sediments, (4) reducing the attenuation of flood peaks, and (5) increasing the amount of sediment routed downstream to wide, low gradient valley bottoms lacking meander belts. Continued high rates of lateral channel migration will eventually be damped as widening of the meander belt decreases flow depths and stream power.
Maximum entropy principle with imprecise side-conditions III: Crisp continuous solutions

In this paper we consider the maximum entropy principle with imprecise side-conditions, where the imprecise side-conditions are modeled as fuzzy sets. In two previous papers our solution produced: (1) fuzzy discrete probability distributions and fuzzy probability density functions; and (2) crisp discrete probability distributions. In this paper we consider only continuous probability density functions and we have the constraint that the solution must be crisp (non-fuzzy).
The Effect of Therapist–Client Racial Similarity on Client Satisfaction and Therapist Evaluation of Treatment

Client satisfaction with therapy services and therapists' perspectives of treatment evaluation were examined in relation to therapist and client racial similarity. Secondary data from a university marriage and family therapy clinic located in the southeast was used to pair therapists and clients on racial similarity or difference. Statistical analyses revealed no major differences in clients' perceptions of satisfaction based on similarity to therapists' race. Therapists indicated some differences in their perceptions of the success of services provided to clients based on similarity to client's race. Implications for researchers, clinicians, and educators are included.
Infection with mycobacterium abscessus after Mohs micrographic surgery in an immunocompetent patient.

Background Nontuberculous mycobacterial infections are increasing in incidence. They have been reported following multiple procedures, including dialysis, liposuction, soft tissue augmentation, pedicures, public baths, acupuncture, placement of contaminated foreign devices such as the Norplant (Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Collegetown, PA, USA), intravenous catheters, and during surgery from contamination of medical instruments. Objective We report a case of Mycobacterium abscessus infection presenting as erythematous papules occurring after Mohs micrographic surgery. We also review the literature on nontuberculous mycobacterial infection to discuss common presentations, diagnosis, and treatment options. Methods/Materials One case presenting to an outpatient dermatology surgery clinic is presented with extensive review of the medical literature on M. abscessus. Results/Conclusion Infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria can present with varied nonspecific morphologies. A high degree of clinical suspicion is necessary to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Antidepressant-like effects of nicotine and reduced nicotinic receptor binding in the Fawn-Hooded rat, an animal model of co-morbid depression and alcoholism.

A strong positive association between depression and alcoholism is evident in epidemiological studies. Curiously, the incidence of smoking (nicotine intake) is also very high among depressed individuals. Because neuronal nicotinic receptors have been implicated in mood regulation as well as in reinforcing effects of alcohol, it was of interest to determine whether inherent changes in these receptors may be manifested in an animal model that expresses both depressive-like characteristics and high alcohol intake. Thus, Fawn-Hooded (FH) rats along with their control ACI rats were used to measure the density of the high affinity nicotinic receptor in discrete brain regions. Furthermore, the effects of acute and chronic nicotine on depressive-like characteristics of FH rats were also evaluated. Measurements of [3H]cytisine binding (selective for α4β2 nicotinic receptor subtype) revealed a reduction in these receptors only in the striatum of FH rats, a result very similar to that observed in selectively-bred alcohol-preferring (P) rats. Administration of nicotine acutely (0.4 mg/kg, sc) resulted in a significant reduction of immobility in the forced swim test (FST) in FH rats only, implying an antidepressant-like effect of nicotine. Another group of FH rats were administered 0.4 mg/kg nicotine (daily, sc) for 14 days and their behavior in the FST was evaluated 22–24 h after the last injection. In this case, nicotine also had a significant antidepressant-like effect in FH rats suggesting no tolerance to nicotine had occurred. The effects of nicotine on FST behavior are very similar to those observed in Flinders Sensitive Line rats, a putative animal model of depression. Together, these findings provide additional evidence for antidepressant-like effects of nicotine and strengthen the postulated association between striatal nicotinic receptors and high alcohol intake. Thus, nicotinic receptors could be suitable targets for the development of novel pharmacotherapy for treatment of depression and possibly alcoholism.
Antidemocratic Beliefs: A Survey and Some Explanations

This paper presents descriptive and analytic data about tolerance for civil liberties and dissent in the American public. Support for free speech and dissent in concrete situations is more limited than support for abstract principles, a gap explained in terms of dynamics of threat, value conflict, and cognitive dissociation. The large gap suggests that the relationship between support for abstract principles and behavior in real situations would be very tenuous. Socialization of tolerance and support for civil liberties over the life cycle is discussed, and it is concluded that few attempts are made to socialize Americans to be true civil libertarians.
Sulfur versus Iron Oxidation in an Iron-Thiolate Model Complex

In the absence of base, the reaction of [Fe{sup II}(TMCS)]PF{sub 6} (1, TMCS = 1-(2-mercaptoethyl)-4,8,11-trimethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) with peracid in methanol at -20 C did not yield the oxoiron(IV) complex (2, [Fe{sup IV}(O)(TMCS)]PF{sub 6}), as previously observed in the presence of strong base (KO{sup t}Bu). Instead, the addition of 1 equiv of peracid resulted in 50% consumption of 1. The addition of a second equivalent of peracid resulted in the complete consumption of 1 and the formation of a new species 3, as monitored by UV-vis, ESI-MS, and Moessbauer spectroscopies. ESI-MS showed 3 to be formulated as [Fe{sup II}(TMCS) + 2O]{sup +}, while EXAFS analysis suggested that 3 was an O-bound iron(II)-sulfinate complex (Fe-O = 1.95 {angstrom}, Fe-S = 3.26 {angstrom}). The addition of a third equivalent of peracid resulted in the formation of yet another compound, 4, which showed electronic absorption properties typical of an oxoiron(IV) species. Moessbauer spectroscopy confirmed 4 to be a novel iron(IV) compound, different from 2, and EXAFS (Fe{double_bond}O = 1.64 {angstrom}) and resonance Raman ({nu}{sub Fe{double_bond}O} = 831 cm{sup -1}) showed that indeed an oxoiron(IV) unit had been generated in 4. Furthermore, both infrared and Raman spectroscopy gave indications that 4 contains a metal-bound sulfinate moietymore » ({nu}{sub s}(SO{sub 2}) {approx} 1000 cm{sup -1}, {nu}{sub as}(SO{sub 2}) {approx} 1150 cm{sup -1}). Investigations into the reactivity of 1 and 2 toward H{sup +} and oxygen atom transfer reagents have led to a mechanism for sulfur oxidation in which 2 could form even in the absence of base but is rapidly protonated to yield an oxoiron(IV) species with an uncoordinated thiol moiety that acts as both oxidant and substrate in the conversion of 2 to 3.« less
Carrington, Schwabe, and the Gold Medal

The mid-nineteenth-century sunspot studies of Heinrich Schwabe and Richard Carrington helped revitalize the then-lagging subject of solar astronomy, ushered in the new field of solar-terrestrial relations, and pointed astronomers toward a more modern view of the Sun's interior. This article recounts a little-known connection between these two astronomers. Both Schwabe (Figure 1) and Carrington and were wealthy amateurs who pursued precise observational goals to great effect. While Schwabe's monumental result, the discovery of the 11-year sunspot cycle, required 18 years of labor before its announcement and another seven before its acceptance, Carrington's key discoveries were all made within the first six years of his sunspot observations. Schwabe's solar observing career spanned 43 years (1825–1867); Carrington's spanned less than a fifth of that (1853–1861).
Manipulation of length and lexicality localizes the functional neuroanatomy of phonological processing in adult readers

In a previous study of single word reading, regions in the left supramarginal gyrus and left angular gyrus showed positive BOLD activity in children but significantly less activity in adults for high-frequency words [Church, J. A., Coalson, R. S., Lugar, H. M., Petersen, S. E., & Schlaggar, B. L. A developmental fMRI study of reading and repetition reveals changes in phonological and visual mechanisms over age. Cerebral Cortex, 18, 2054-2065, 2008]. This developmental decrease may reflect decreased reliance on phonological processing for familiar stimuli in adults. Therefore, in the present study, variables thought to influence phonological demand (string length and lexicality) were manipulated. Length and lexicality effects in the brain were explored using both ROI and whole-brain approaches. In the ROI analysis, the supramarginal and angular regions from the previous study were applied to this study. The supramarginal region showed a significant positive effect of length, consistent with a role in phonological processing, whereas the angular region showed only negative deflections from baseline with a strong effect of lexicality and other weaker effects. At the whole-brain level, varying effects of length and lexicality and their interactions were observed in 85 regions throughout the brain. The application of hierarchical clustering analysis to the BOLD time course data derived from these regions revealed seven clusters, with potentially revealing anatomical locations. Of note, a left angular gyrus region was the sole constituent of one cluster. Taken together, these findings in adult readers (1) provide support for a widespread set of brain regions affected by lexical variables, (2) corroborate a role for phonological processing in the left supramarginal gyrus, and (3) do not support a strong role for phonological processing in the left angular gyrus.
Renal cell carcinoma in the inferior vena cava demonstrated by transesophageal echocardiography

thrombus. Resection of renal cell carcinoma from the IVC can now be assisted by intraoperative use of the TEE. Treiger et al6 reported accurate placement of caval clamps guided by the TEE with successful tumor removal in a series of 5 patients. In their study, there was a consistent correlation between the gross specimen and the TEE image. The presence of strands projecting from the tumor thrombus in the present case has not been previously reported. Because the strands appeared to be intact until the application of caval clamps, disintegration may have occurred during the resection of the tumor from the IVC. Small fragments remaining in the IVC may then have embolized when the caval clamps were removed to restore blood flow. The patient’s subsequent clinical course of lung metastases after tumor resection indicates that pulmonary seeding with tumor probably occurred in the perioperative period. The fragile appearance of these projections on TEE makes embolization prior to surgery likely. The occurrence of this tumor morphology may therefore be a sign of poor prognosis. The use of the TEE during resection of renal cell carcinoma may become standard practice in identification of the tumor extension. As increasing numbers of IVC thrombi are imaged, a correlation between their appearance on TEE and the gross morphology should provide insight into the prognosis and management of these patients. Detection of these fragile-appearing strands may affect a patient’s suitability for operative resection or necessitate meticulous techniques for removing any fragmented tumor from the IVC before restoring flow to that vessel.
Simple circuit of linear optics logic gates

We review an experimental demonstration of a simple irreversible circuit of two probabilistic exclusive-OR (XOR) gates for single-photon qubits. We describe the operation of the individual linear-optics gates and the overall circuit in terms of two-photon and three-photon quantum interference effects. We also discuss future plans for quantum circuits using single-photon qubits from stored parametric down-conversion sources.
High-Pressure Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Ibuprofen in Plasma

A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method is presented for the determination of ibuprofen in human plasma. Ibuprofen is extracted from plasma acidified with 1.0 M phosphoric acid using hexane containing p-phenylphenol as an internal standard. A reversed-phase octadecylsilane column was used with a liquid phase of 65% methanol and 35% 0.10 M acetate buffer (pH 5.0). A spectrofluorometric detector with an excitation wavelength of 253 nm and a band pass filter (230--420 nm) provided a detectable peak for 1 microgram of ibuprofen/ml of plasma. The effect of the pH and molarity of the mobile phase on the capacity factor was studied.
NMDA receptor activation during epileptiform responses in the dentate gyrus of epileptic patients.

Abstract We previously showed that a low frequency (1 Hz) train of perforant ptimulation evokes burst discharges in the dentate gyrus of hippocampal slices obtained from patients surgically treated for intractable temporal lobe epilepsy. We report here that multiple population spikes that characterize the burst discharge are blocked reversibly by the specific NMDA receptor antagonist, d -(−)-2-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid ( d -APV). The epileptiform discharge evoked in human dentate gyrus by stimulation trains of 1 Hz could be reproduced in the rat dentate gyrus in vitro by the same stimulation protocol but required the presence of low concentrations (0.2–0.6 mM) of extracellular magnesium. We suggest that low frequency orthodromic stimulation of dentate granule cells through the perforant path progressively evokes an increase in the activation of NMDA receptors resulting in burst discharges in tissue from epileptic patients.
Inherited epidermolysis bullosa

Inherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB) encompasses a number of disorders characterized by recurrent blister formation as the result of structural fragility within the skin and selected other tissues. All types and subtypes of EB are rare; the overall incidence and prevalence of the disease within the United States is approximately 19 per one million live births and 8 per one million population, respectively. Clinical manifestations range widely, from localized blistering of the hands and feet to generalized blistering of the skin and oral cavity, and injury to many internal organs. Each EB subtype is known to arise from mutations within the genes encoding for several different proteins, each of which is intimately involved in the maintenance of keratinocyte structural stability or adhesion of the keratinocyte to the underlying dermis. EB is best diagnosed and subclassified by the collective findings obtained via detailed personal and family history, in concert with the results of immunofluorescence antigenic mapping, transmission electron microscopy, and in some cases, by DNA analysis. Optimal patient management requires a multidisciplinary approach, and revolves around the protection of susceptible tissues against trauma, use of sophisticated wound care dressings, aggressive nutritional support, and early medical or surgical interventions to correct whenever possible the extracutaneous complications. Prognosis varies considerably and is based on both EB subtype and the overall health of the patient.
Dendritic cells from humans with hypomorphic mutations in IKBKG/NEMO have impaired mitogen-activated protein kinase activity†‡

The covalent attachment of lysine 63-linked polyubiquitin to the zinc finger domain of IKBKG/NEMO (also known as IKKγ) is necessary for full activation of NF-κB. Impairments of this biochemical mechanism explain the deleterious effects of hypomorphic NEMO mutations on NF-κB signaling function in humans suffering from X-linked ectodermal dysplasia and immunodeficiency. Nevertheless, the biological function of the NEMO zinc finger domain in the regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity is poorly understood. Here we show that dendritic cells from patients with EDI caused by a C-terminal E391X deletion of the zinc finger of NEMO exhibit impaired MAPK activation in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. Interestingly, DCs from patients with a C417R missense mutation within the zinc finger domain of NEMO in which ubiquitination of NEMO is preserved are also defective in JNK and ERK activity following LPS stimulation. Our findings indicate that the structural integrity of the NEMO ZF domain is more important than its polyubiquitination for full activation of the MAPK. Furthermore, phosphorylation and polyubiquitination of upstream TAK1 were significantly reduced in the E391X zinc finger deleted patients, indicating that the NEMO zinc finger may play an important role in assembling the proximal signaling complex for MAPK activation.