cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initial human PET imaging studies with the dopamine transporter ligand 18F-FECNT.

The aim of this study was to do an initial assessment of the usefulness of 2β-carbomethoxy-3β-(4-chlorophenyl)-8-(2-18F-fluoroethyl)nortropane (18F-FECNT) PET scanning in determining in vivo brain dopamine transporter (DAT) density in healthy humans and subjects with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: We investigated 6 neurologically healthy subjects and 5 PD patients: 2 with mild unilateral disease, 1 with mild-to-moderate bilateral disease, and 2 with moderately severe bilateral disease. The healthy subjects underwent a 3-h PET scan (26 frames) and the PD subjects underwent a 2-h PET scan (23 frames) while 18F-FECNT was being injected over the first 5 min of the scan. Arterial blood samples were taken throughout scanning for well-counter and metabolite analysis to determine the presence of possible active metabolites. The scans were reconstructed; then we placed spheric regions of interest in the caudate nuclei, putamena, thalami, brain stem, cerebellum, and occipital cortex of each subject. The radioactivity level in each region was calculated for each frame of a subject’s PET scan. Then we calculated target tissue-to-cerebellum ratios for each time frame. Results: The analysis of arterial blood samples revealed that metabolism of the tracer was rapid. The ether-extractable component of the arterial input was >98% pure 18F-FECNT. The caudate nucleus and putamen exhibited the highest uptake and prolonged retention of the radioligand. They both attained maximum uptake at ∼90 min, with the healthy subjects’ average caudate- and putamen-to-cerebellum ratios (±SD) at that time being 9.0 ± 1.2 and 7.8 ± 0.7, respectively. The maximal caudate-to-cerebellum ratios for the healthy subjects ranged from 7.6 to 10.5 and their maximal putamen-to-cerebellum ratios ranged from 7.1 to 9.3. The 2 early-stage, unilateral PD patients had, at 90 min, an average right caudate-to-cerebellum ratio of 5.3 ± 1.1 and a left ratio of 5.9 ± 0.7 and an average right putamen-to cerebellum ratio of 2.8 ± 0.1 and a left ratio of 3.0 ± 0.6. The late-stage PD patients had, at 90 min, an average right caudate-to-cerebellum ratio of 3.7 ± 0.4 and a left ratio of 3.9 ± 0 and an average right putamen-to cerebellum ratio of 1.8 ± 0.1 and a left ratio of 1.8 ± 0. Conclusion: These results indicate that 18F-FECNT is an excellent candidate radioligand for in vivo imaging of the DAT system in humans. It has a much higher affinity for DAT than for the serotonin transporter and yields the highest peak striatum-to-cerebellum ratios and has among the most favorable kinetics of 18F-radiolabeled DAT ligands. Having picked up presymptomatic changes in the hemisphere opposite the unaffected side of the body in our early-stage (unilateral) PD patients, it appears that, like other DAT radioligands, it may be able to identify presymptomatic PD.
Structures of the solvated organic-based ferromagnet decamethylferrocenium tetracyanoethenide, [FeCp* 2] +[TCNE]-· yRCN (R = Me, Et, n-Pr)

The ferromagnet [FeCp*2][TCNE] (Tc = 4.80 K) has two structural phase transitions at 249 and 282 K that has thwarted the determination of its structure by single crystal X-ray diffraction; however, its structure at 100 K is reported [P21/c, a = 9.710(1) A, b = 14.214(2) A, c = 18.753(2) A, β = 113.207(2)°, V = 2378.7(5) A3, Z = 4, T = 100 K]. Because of the facile loss of solvent, the ferromagnetic solvates, [FeCp*2][TCNE]·yS {S = MeCN [y = 1, P, a = 9.556(2) A, b = 9.781(2) A, c = 16.152(2) A, α = 74.860(2)°, β = 84.333(3)°, γ = 65.030(4)°, V = 1321.0(4) A3, Z = 2, T = 100 K], EtCN [y = 1/2, Pnma, a = 14.750(5) A, b = 10.577(5) A, c = 33.972(10) A, V = 5301(3) A3, Z = 8, T = 100 K], n-PrCN [y = 1/2, C2/m, a = 35.902(6) A, b = 10.488(2) A, c = 14.302(2) A, β = 101.396(3)°, V = 5279(1) A3, Z = 8, T = 173 K]} have also been difficult to crystallographically characterize, but have been determined from single crystal X-ray diffraction data. These structures consist of parallel chains of alternating [FeCp*2]·+...
The Continuing Challenge of Reducing HIV Risk among Haitian Youth: The Need for Intervention

There is a dire need for interventions that will address the multiple factors--poverty, substance use, early sexual debut, and violence--that influence Haitian youth's engagement in risky behaviors. The deteriorating socioeconomic and political state of the country has had a deleterious effect on the sociocultural milieu and on the boundaries that have heretofore kept risky behaviors in check. Historically, the lakou system, a community-based approach that supports the family unit, has disintegrated, leading to the disruption of traditional parenting patterns. The unstable economic system has also led to the increasing use of children from poor families, who through the restavek system, are sent to work as servants in other households. The breakdown of traditional systems, coupled with the increasing economic and political instability, has had a significant effect on Haitian adolescents. Among boys, increased levels of substance use have been associated with multiple sex partnerships and very early sexual debut. Among girls, extremely high rates of sexual abuse and forced sex have led to relatively high levels of HIV. While the majority of them have been exposed to behavior change messages, behavior change itself has lagged because many adolescents do not accurately perceive their risk exposure. This review explores the risks of HIV transmission among Haitian youth, with a focus on vulnerability factors, including substance use, culture, and the socioeconomic context, and provides recommendations for intervention. An ecosystemic approach, designed specifically for Haitian youth and that takes environmental context and culture into account, is needed.
Smart Quasiserial post processor for optical systolic systems.

A novel quasiserial post processor is proposed for improving the performance of optical systolic systems.
On justifying moral judgments

Much discussion of morality presupposes that moral judgments are always, at bottom, arbitrary. Moral scepticism, or at least moral relativism, has become common currency among the liberally educated. This remains the case even while political crises become intractable, and it is increasingly apparent that the scope of public policy formulated with no reference to moral justification is extremely limited. The thesis of On Justifying Moral Judgments insists, on the contrary, that rigorous justifications are possible for moral judgments. Crucially, Becker argues for the coordination of the three main approaches to moral theory: axiology, deontology, and agent morality. A pluralistic account of the concept of value is expounded, and a solution to the problem of ultimate justification is suggested. Analyses of valuation, evaluation, the ‘is-ought’ issue, and the concepts of obligation, responsibility and the good person are all incorporated into the main line of argument.
Low-frequency noise in Gallium Arsenide MESFETs

Abstract We observed the noise spectrum of GaAs MESFETs from 1/ƒ noise through diffusion noise ( 1/ƒ 1.5 spectrum) to thermal noise in the frequency range from 20 Hz to 2 MHz. At negative gate bias and floating drain the drain shows thermal noise, but when the gate is biased positively so that it draws gate current it will contribute excess noise to the floating drain. The current noise spectrum S I (ƒ) at both the gate and the floating drain shows an I 2mV 1 V relationship, which is common for the Schottky barrier diodes.
Salivary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: revisited

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a malignant epithelial neoplasm composed of varying proportions of mucous, epidermoid, intermediate, columnar, and clear cells and often demonstrates prominent cystic growth. MEC is usually subclassified as low, intermediate, or high grade on the basis of its histologic features, including the presence of cystic spaces, cellular differentiation, proportion of mucous cells, growth pattern, type of invasion, and cytologic atypia. Because even low-grade neoplasms may metastasize, the term mucoepidermoid tumor is inappropriate. The 3-level grading approach to tumor classification has found general acceptance among pathologists; differences in biologic behavior can be demonstrated even though clinical stage has become a better prognosticator. However, in the case of MEC, no universal agreement exists regarding which histologic grading criteria are most the useful, and grading has varied. These issues have led to the investigation of more subjective systems. We describe these new schemes, the histologic variants of MEC, and the ancillary methods that allow for further stratification of patients with MEC, especially for patients with grade 2 tumors, which have a variable and unpredictable clinical course.
Clinical relevance of time of onset, duration, and type of pulmonary edema after liver transplantation.

We investigated the clinical significance of time of onset, duration, and type of pulmonary edema after orthotopic liver transplantation by retrospectively reviewing 93 consecutive recipients. Pulmonary edema was diagnosed by means of radiographic criteria and Pao2/Fio2 ratio 18 mm Hg; permeability, ≤18 mm Hg). Of 91 evaluable patients, 44 (48%) had no pulmonary edema, 23 (25%) had immediate pulmonary edema resolving within 24 hours, 8 (9%( had late pulmonary edema (developing de novo in the first 16 to 24 hours), and 16 (18%) had persistent pulmonary edema (developing immediately and persisting for at least 16 hours). At 16 to 24 hours, mean arterial pressure was lower with persistent permeability-type edema than without pulmonary edema (75 versus 87 mm Hg, P .05) or pulmonary vascular resistance (67 versus 53 dyn · second · m−5, P > .05), but had increased mean pulmonary arterial pressure (27 versus 16, P < .01), suggesting a flow volume-dependent mechanism. Duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care, and hospital stay were prolonged in patients with late or persistent permeability-type edema but not in patients with immediate pulmonary edema of any type. In conclusion, immediate pulmonary edema resolving within 24 hours after liver transplantation had little clinical consequence; persistent permeability-type pulmonary edema portended a worse outcome. (Liver Transpl 2003;9:764-771.)
Distribution of Pocket Gophers (Geomys Breviceps) in Relation to Soils

Why is the distribution of pocket gophers so discontinuous in regions where no apparent reason is discernible? This question occurred to the senior author when he first started a study of the distribution and differentiation of Geomys breviceps in eastern Texas. Knowing that this rodent occurs in sandy soils, but is absent from the "black lands" of Texas, a fact that is verified readily merely by observation from an automobile, it seemed likely that a study of soil conditions might offer a solution. With this in mind, an intensive study was conducted this past spring on a small farm near College Station, Brazos County, Texas, where pocket gophers were known to occur.
Relationships of N-Terminal Pro-B-Natriuretic Peptide and Cardiac Troponin T to Left Ventricular Mass and Function and Mortality in Asymptomatic Hemodialysis Patients

Background Although the cardiac biomarker troponin T (cTnT) is related strongly to mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease, the independent association of N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT–pro-BNP) and cTnT levels in predicting outcomes is unknown. The objective of this study is to determine factors associated with NT–pro-BNP and cTnT and determine whether these levels are associated with mortality. Study Design Cohort study. Setting & Participants Asymptomatic hemodialysis patients (n = 150) in 4 university-affiliated hemodialysis units. Exposure & Outcomes For cross-sectional analysis, echocardiographic variables as exposures and NT–pro-BNP and cTnT levels as outcomes; for longitudinal analysis, association of NT–pro-BNP and cTnT levels as exposures to all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality as outcomes. Results In a multivariate regression analysis, low midwall fractional shortening, a measure of poor systolic function, was an independent correlate of log NT–pro-BNP level ( P P P P P P = 0.1). The combination of the 2 biomarker levels did not improve the association with all-cause or cardiovascular mortality compared with NT–pro-BNP level alone. NT–pro-BNP level was a marker of mortality even after adjusting for left ventricular mass index and midwall fractional shortening. Limitations Our cohort was predominantly black and of limited sample size. Conclusion NT–pro-BNP level strongly correlates with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and is associated more strongly with mortality than cTnT level in asymptomatic hemodialysis patients.
Genetic Complementation in Yeast Reveals Functional Similarities between the Catalytic Subunits of Mammalian Signal Peptidase Complex

Type I signal peptidases (SPs) comprise a family of structurally related enzymes that cleave signal peptides from precursor proteins following their transport out of the cytoplasmic space in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. One such enzyme, the mitochondrial inner membrane peptidase, has two catalytic subunits, which recognize distinct cleavage site motifs in their signal peptide substrates. The only other known type I SP with two catalytic subunits is the signal peptidase complex (SPC) in the mammalian endoplasmic reticulum. Here, we tested the hypothesis that, as with inner membrane peptidase catalytic subunits, SPC catalytic subunits exhibit nonoverlapping substrate specificity. We constructed two yeast strains without endogenous SP, one expressing canine SPC18 and the other expressing a truncation of canine SPC21 (SPC21ΔN), which lacks 24 N-terminal residues that prevent expression of SPC21 in yeast. By monitoring a variety of soluble and membrane-bound substrates, we find that, in contrast to the tested hypothesis, SPC catalytic subunits exhibit overlapping substrate specificity. SPC18 and SPC21ΔN do, however, cleave some substrates with different efficiencies, although no pattern for this behavior could be discerned. In light of the functional similarities between SPC proteins, we developed a membrane protein fragmentation assay to monitor the position of the catalytic sites relative to the surface of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Using this assay, our results suggest that the active sites of SPC18 and SPC21ΔN are located 4-11 A above the membrane surface. These data, thus, support a model that SPC18 and SPC21 are functionally and structurally similar to each other.
The Measurement of Organizational Commitment.

Abstract This paper summarizes a stream of research aimed at developing and validating a measure of employee commitment to work organizations. The instrument, developed by Porter and his colleagues, is called the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire (OCQ). Based on a series of studies among 2563 employees in nine divergent organizations, satisfactory test-retest reliabilities and internal consistency reliabilities were found. In addition, cross-validated evidence of acceptable levels of predictive, convergent, and discriminant validity emerged for the instrument. Norms for males and females are presented based on the available sample. Possible instrument limitations and future research needs on the measurement and study of organizational commitment are reviewed.
Near surface yield enhancement in narrow acceptance 180° elastic scattering for He ions in non-crystalline and poly-crystalline solids

Abstract Observations of an unusual near surface ( 0 ⩽ x A ) yield enhancement in the energy distribution of elastically scattered He ions from amorphous and polycrystalline materials is reported. The integrated excess yield for small ( θ 1 2 =0.2° ) versus large ( θ 1 2 =4.5° ) acceptance angle at 180° scattering is typically 20% for He energies in the range 0.2 ⩽ E ⩽2.5 MeV . Maximum peak to normal yield ratios have been observed as high as 60–70%. Materials in which the effect has been observed include amorphous germanium, the glassy metal alloy Nb 40 Ni 60 , fine grain polycrystalline Au, Pt, Mo, and Cu and also in single crystals of Si and Au continuously rotated during data collection to simulate a random lattice. The excess yields are largest for materials of atomic number above Z =40 and decreases rapidly for elements below this value. The angular width and depth dependence of this effect suggest that it is sensitive to multiple scattering and also implies that the particle, upon scattering, must retrace its inward path within a cone of ≲0.2° from depths comparable to or less than a few hundred A.
An analysis of the index finger as a pointing device

We have conducted three related experiments in order to analyze the performance of the index finger as a pointing device. The results indicate that the performance of the index finger is significantly better as a direct pointing device [1] than as an indirect pointing device using an isometric finger-controlled joystick (Trackpoint). We included a mouse as a "control" condition and in two of the three experiments, the mouse and the finger exhibited similar performance.
Effect of Co Content Upon the Bulk Structure of Sr-and Co-doped LaFeO3

The bulk structure was investigated for Fe-based perovskite-type oxides with the formula La0.6Sr0.4CoyFe1−yO3−δ (y = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3). The materials were confirmed to be stoichiometric with respect to oxygen under ambient conditions and the structural features were then further characterized under different environments as a function of temperature. Under reducing atmospheres, the degree of reduction increased with Co content, suggesting the presence of preferential oxidation of Fe over Co. Under milder conditions, oxygen vacancy formation was not proportional to Co content, which was likely caused by an electronic structure transition. The unit cell parameters were also shown to strongly depend upon Co content, temperature, and environment. A rhombohedral to cubic transition occurred at lower temperatures for higher Co content, but showed less dependence upon environment. A change in the thermal expansion behavior occurred at the temperature where oxygen vacancies formed leading to two regions of linear thermal expansion. The use of lattice parameters compared to dilatometry allowed for the simultaneous monitoring of unit cell symmetry and expansion behavior so the link between thermal properties and unit cell symmetry could be firmly established.
Electrical resistance of intact integument throughout the molt cycle of a cockroach

Abstract 1. 1. The electrical d.c. resistance across integument on live nymphs of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana (L.), was measured at short intervals throughout intermolt periods. 2. 2. A large increase in resistance was observed within 10 days of an ampending molt. 3. 3. This phenomenon is associated with a closing off of channels in the old cuticle which had been use for transport of material between the epidermal cells and the external surface.
Effect of different epicardial ventricular pacing sites on left ventricular function in awake dogs

Left ventricular performance was assessed during both atrial and sequential and nonsequential ventricular pacing from multiple epicardial sites in 12 awake dogs. All animals had an electromagnetic flow probe chronically implanted on the ascending aorta and pressure catheters implanted in the aorta and left ventricle. The mean pacing rate was 106 beats/min. Compared to results obtained with right atrial pacing alone, sequential ventricular pacing resulted in a 14 percent decrease in left ventricular stroke volume. This decrease is most likely due to the ventricular asynchrony from ectopic depolarization. No significant differences in the hemodynamic variables measured (stroke volume, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, aortic pressure) or computed (stroke work, peak power) could be detected among any of the right or left ventricular pacing sites during either sequential or nonsequential pacing. From these data we conclude that no optimal site for epicardial ventricular pacing exists.
Assessment of therapy with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in an academic diabetes clinic.

OBJECTIVE To assess the results of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, especially relative to glycemic control and rate of discontinuation of insulin pump therapy. METHODS A retrospective review of the medical records of 107 patients with type 1 diabetes who were receiving CSII at the Diabetes Care Center at the University of Washington Medical Center was performed to evaluate clinical outcomes. All patients considering CSII therapy participated in a class to learn the details of insulin pump treatment. RESULTS The mean age of our patient population was 36.0 +/- 10.4 years (mean value +/- standard deviation). The mean duration of diabetes at the initiation of insulin pump therapy was 17.0 +/- 9.1 years. The mean duration of CSII use was 36.1 +/- 25.5 months (median, 26.2 months). Insulin lispro was used by 89.7% of the patients. Six patients (5.6%) discontinued CSII therapy after a mean of 19.1 +/- 14.7 months for a variety of reasons. Despite no significant difference in home blood glucose monitoring (number of tests per day) before initiation of CSII, mean hemoglobin A1c levels decreased from 7.6% to 7.1% (P<0.0001), and the occurrence of severe hypoglycemic episodes decreased 73.8% (P = 0.0003). CONCLUSION In our academic diabetes clinic with a formal insulin pump program, we noted a significant improvement in hemoglobin A1c values, a significant reduction in the frequency of severe hypoglycemic episodes, and a low rate of discontinuation of CSII. CSII therapy, when provided in conjunction with a standard educational program, should continue to be an important treatment option in appropriately selected patients with type 1 diabetes.
Coronary artery dissection—A complication of cardiac catheterization without sequelae: Case report and review of the literature

This report describes an acute right coronary artery dissection occurring during diagnostic cardiac catheterization. Following catheter manipulation in the vicinity of the aortic valve, the patient complained of mild chest discomfort and had transient electrocardiographic evidence of acute inferior wall myocardial infarction with runs of 2:1 atrioventricular block. Within 5 min, the EKG reverted to precatheterization appearance, and the patient was asymptomatic. Coronary angiography revealed a dissection of the proximal vessel without obstruction. The patient had no clinical sequelae while monitored in the intensive care unit. The patient underwent elective aortic and mitral valve replacement. The area of the dissection was directly visualized, and no abnormality was noted. We review the literature of spontaneous and iatrogenic coronary artery dissections with regard to pathology, diagnosis, and prognosis, and make recommendations for therapy.
Abstract 2468: ATM signaling to mTORC1 in response to DNA damage independent of AMPK activation

When DNA becomes damaged either as a result of endogenous processes or exposure to radiation or chemicals, the DNA damage response is rapidly engaged. DNA damage response pathways have been well-characterized at the molecular level, and are known to involve a large network of proteins that trigger cell cycle checkpoints to allow time for DNA repair or trigger apoptosis via p53-dependent mechanisms if the damage is too severe to be repaired. However in addition to these classic damage responses, our previous work on ROS-induced pathways indicated that an additional aspect of the cellular damage response to many types of damage or stress could be induction of autophagy via repression of mTORC1. We found previously that ROS could activate ATM in the cytoplasm, independently of the DNA damage produced by ROS, and subsequently activate the LKB1-AMPK energy-sensing pathway to activate TSC2 and repress mTOR, therefore inducing autophagy. We next asked whether a similar pathway could be induced in response to DNA damage, since there have been a few reports of AMPK activation by DNA damage in some cell lines, and ATM has been shown to activate AMPK via both LKB1-dependent and LKB1-independent mechanisms. In a panel of cancer cell lines, including MCF7 breast carcinoma cells and SKOV3 ovarian carcinoma and other cells such as MEFs and HEK293, we profiled the signaling events in response to classic double-strand break agents such as etoposide, ionizing radiation or radiomimetic neocarzinostatin, as well as the intrastrand crosslinking agent cisplatin. In a cell-line and damage-specific manner, mTORC1 could be repressed, but unlike the previously identified ROS-induced signaling pathway, AMPK was not activated. In addition, in contrast to the rapid ROS-induced signaling pathway, DNA damage induced mTORC1 suppression occurred over a period of hours (6-24 hours), suggesting that additional mechanisms may be involved in signaling to mTORC1. Using Tsc2-deficient MEFs, we demonstrated that mTORC1 suppression requires TSC2, a negative regulator of mTORC1. This dichotomous response between ROS-induced mTORC1 suppression via AMPK activation of TSC2, and DNA damage, which does not require AMPK, indicates that mTORC1 regulation by DNA damage is complex and context-dependent, which may have implications for understanding mechanisms of action of DNA damaging cancer therapeutics. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2468. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2468
Interannual Variability in the Decay of Lower Stratospheric Arctic Vortices.

The interannual variability of the decay of lower stratospheric Arctic vortices is examined using NCEP/NCAR re-analyses between 1958 and 2000. There is large interannual variability in the characteristics of the decay of the vortex air, with very different characteristics for early and late vortex breakups. In early breakup years (when the vortex breaks up in February and early March) the remnants of the vortex survive as coherent potential vorticity structures for around two months, whereas in late breakups (late April and May) the potential vorticity remnants quickly disappear. There is a similar contrast in the stirring around the vortex between early and late breakup years, as diagnosed by the lengthening of material contours in contour advection calculations. In years with an early breakup there is a gradual decrease in the stretching rates from large winter to small summer values, whereas in late breakup years stretching rates are roughly constant until late spring when there is a rapid decrease. These differences in the decay of coherent vortex structures and stirring suggest that there are large differences in the mixing of vortex air into the surrounding middle latitudes between years with early and late breakups.
Moral Disengagement: Measurement and Modification

To study how attitudes and social psychological processes influence decisions about war and peace, a 15-question scale was developed to measure moral disengagement in support for military action. In a survey of 128 secondary school students in the USA and Finland, the scale demonstrated acceptable reliability (0.85-0.90) in different gender and national groups. US students were less morally engaged than Finnish students and males were less morally engaged than females. Scale scores were strongly related to the students' support for US and NATO military actions in Iraq and Yugoslavia. In a second study, 73 US university students participated in a brief, randomized experiment comparing the effects of contrasting communications on moral disengagement in support for military action. After completing a pretest survey, the students were randomly assigned to persuasive communications favoring either moral disengagement or resistance to moral disengagement. Immediately after they received these communications, th...
Invasive chronic inflammatory monocyte phenotype in subjects with high HIV-1 viral load.

Abstract Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected monocytes trafficking into the central nervous system are a risk factor for HIV-1-associated dementia. We performed global gene expression analysis on CD14+ monocytes isolated from HIV-1-infected individuals and controls to identify HIV-1-related changes in monocyte phenotype. Monocytes from subjects with high viral load (HVL) had a significant increase in monocytes expressing CD16, CCR5, and MCP-1. There was also an increase in sialoadhesin, a macrophage marker of chronic inflammation. Expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α was unchanged in individuals with HIV-1 compared to control CD14+ monocytes. Differential gene expression identified by DNA microarray analysis was confirmed with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), while increased protein expression was characterized by immunofluorescence. We concluded that there is a circulating CD14+ macrophage hybrid phenotype in subjects with HVL.
Alternative approaches to sequencing robot moves for pcb assembly

Abstract The use of industrial robots for assembly application is on the increase. This is due in part to increasing popularity of automation and also the high productivity and quality level that can be achieved with machine assembly as against manual assembly. In this paper, a framework for the selection of the appropriate control scheme for assembling printed circuit boards is presented. The schemes pursue the reduction of the assembly time or cost. Machine assembly problems are categorized and a heuristic algorithm for solving each problem category is presented. Example problems are solved to illustrate the techniques, which can be easily generalized to handle any robotic assembly task outside the printed circuit board domain.
Inhibitor rankings for alkane combustion

Abstract The effect of hydrocarbon fuel type on the ranking of inhibitor effectiveness has been investigated through computer simulations. The approach involves carrying out sensitivity analysis on the detailed kinetics of the combustion of C1-C4 hydrocarbons. It is demonstrated that the main reactions determining burning velocities are the same. Similar suppressant rankings from the combustion of different hydrocarbon fuels are largely due to the reactions of a number of small radicals that are common to all of these systems. Inhibitor addition reduces the concentration of these radicals with the active agents being recycled by the common breakdown products of the fuel. Inhibitor effectiveness of additives in a variety of fuels was analyzed using experimental data on the effects of additives on burning velocity in small additive concentration ranges. An universal ranking of additive efficiency is presented. The results demonstrate that the active agents in practically all cases are the small inorganic compounds created from decomposition processes. Inhibition effectiveness of agents is at a maximum at low concentrations. At higher concentrations, saturation effects, brought about by the approach of active radicals to their equilibrium concentrations, lead to substantial decreases in the effectiveness of high efficiency suppressants in comparison with their effects at small concentrations. The results show that the probable maximum increase in total flame suppression effectiveness of high efficiency agents will not exceed one order of magnitude in molar fractions in comparison with the effect of halon 1301 (CF3Br).
Numerical study of thermal convection in shallow cavities with conducting boundaries

Abstract Two-dimensional convective flows in shallow cavities with conducting horizontal boundaries and driven by differential heating of the two vertical end walls, are studied numerically over a range of Rayleigh numbers and Prandtl numbers. As the Rayleigh number increases, nonlinearity first affects the flow structure in the turning regions near the ends of the cavity. These “end-zone problems” have been investigated by a combined computational and analytical approach. Numerical solutions are found using a Dufort-Frankel-Multigrid method, and appear to be in good agreement with stability analysis.
Grandparents, Parents, and Grandchildren at High Risk for Depression: A Three-Generation Study

ABSTRACT Objective High-risk studies of psychiatric disorders in parents and offspring that include 3 generations are uncommon. Multigenerational studies can be clinically useful as they can provide information for risk prediction from one generation to another for the development of empirically based interventions. Using a high-risk design, this study examines the association of grandparent major depressive disorder (MDD) and parent MDD with psychopathology in grandchildren. Method Using Cox proportional hazards in a sample of 90 grandchildren at high and low risk for depression by virtue of their grandparents' and parents' depression status, the authors examined the risk for offspring depression and anxiety. Results Grandparent and parent MDD were associated with grandchild anxiety (relative risk [RR] = 5.51 and RR = 3.09. respectively). Grandchildren with both a depressed parent and grandparent had the highest risk for anxiety. Parental MDD is associated with an increased risk for grandchild disruptive disorder (RR = 10.77). Forty-nine percent of the grandchildren in families in which both the parent and grandparent were depressed had some form of psychopathology. The grand-children from those families were the most impaired. Conclusions Prepubertal-onset anxiety disorder is a risk factor for the later development of clinically significant recurrent MDD across several generations of families at high risk for depression. Parental impaired functioning increases the risk for disruptive disorders. Children in families with multiple generations of depression are at particularly high risk for some form of psychopathology.
Preparation and characterization of compounds in the BaBiO 3 –Ba(Ce 1-x Gd x )O 3-x/2 system

The structure, nonstoichiometry, and electrical conductivity of compositions in the BaBiO 3 – Ba(Ce 1- x Gd x )O 3- x /2 system have been investigated in an attempt to prepare new mixed (ionic-electronic) conducting oxides. The substitution of Bi into Ba(Ce 1- x Gd x )O 3- x /2 decreases the concentration of oxygen-ion vacancies, and the effective negative charge of the Gd dopant is compensated by the mixed valence of Bi (3+, 5+). For low Bi contents a decrease in ionic conductivity decreases the overall conductivity; however, higher levels of Bi introduce significant electronic conductivity, and for Ba(Bi 0.5 Ce 0.5 )O 3 , σ total ≈ 1 S/cm at 800 °C in air. Compositions in the Ba(Bi 0.5 Ce 0.5- x Gd x )O 3 pseudobinary system undergo a B-cation order-disorder transformation at 1300–1350 °C for x = 0.5 and at ≈1250 °C for x = 0.4; all other compositions retain a disordered B-site arrangement. While these disordered perovskites exhibit oxygen nonstoichiometry under reducing conditions at elevated temperatures, with the extent of reduction decreasing with increasing Gd content, their ordered counterparts remain close to stoichiometry. The electronic conductivities of this pseudobinary could be fitted to a “band-type” model, and, despite the presence of oxygen vacancies for the lower values of x , no significant ionic conductivity was observed.
On the Equivalence of Normal Form Theory and Multiple Time Scale Method

Multiple time scales technique has long been an important method for the analysis of weakly nonlinear systems. In this technique, a set of multiple time scales are introduced that serve as the independent variables. The evolution of state variables at slower time scales is then determined so as to make the expansions for solutions in a perturbation scheme uniform in natural and slower times. Normal form theory has also recently been used to approximate the dynamics of weakly nonlinear systems. This theory provides a way of finding a coordinate system in which the dynamical system takes the “simplest” form. This is achieved by constructing a series of near-identity nonlinear transformations that make the nonlinear systems as simple as possible. The “simplest” differential equations obtained by the normal form theory are topologically equivalent to the original systems. Both methods can be interpreted as nonlinear perturbations of linear differential equations. In this work, the equivalence of these two methods for constructing periodic solutions is proven, and it is explained why some studies have found the results obtained by the two techniques to be inconsistent.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Influence of bicarbonate on parathyroid hormone-induced changes in fluid absorption by the proximal tubule.

Influence of bicarbonate on parathyroid hormone-induced changes in fluid absorption by the proximal tubule. Segments of the proximal tubule of the rabbit kidney were perfused in vitro in order to examine the influence of bicarbonate on the reduction in fluid absorption that occurs following the acute administration of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Studies were performed using either normal ultrafiltrate as perfusion fluid and normal rabbit serum as bath or low bicarbonate ultrafiltrate as perfusion fluid and low bicarbonate rabbit serum as bath. Low bicarbonate fluids were prepared by replacement of bicarbonate with chloride. In the presence of normal concentrations of bicarbonate, the addition of PTH to the bath (1 U/ml) resulted in a decrease in the fluid absorption rate (J v )from 1.13 ±0.08 to 0.60 ± 0.04 nl/mm · min (P v , the chloride concentration in the collected fluid changed from 119.0 ± 2.0 to 113.4 ± 1.1 mEq/liter (P v from 1.16 ± 0.15 to 0.68 ± 0.07 nl/mm · min (P 0 ) from 118.6 ± 2.9 to 111.6 ± 1.3 mEq/liter (P v from 1.16 ± 0.15 to 0.74 ± 0.10 nl/mm · min (P v (0.74 ± 0.10 vs. 0.72 ± 0.10 nl/mm · min). These data indicate that in the proximal tubule the PTH-induced reduction in fluid absorption may be mediated by changes in bicarbonate absorption.
Hidden switches in the mind.

Mental illness is not due to mutations in a single gene, but rather involves molecular disturbances entailing multiple genes and numerous environmental factors that control their expression. Recent research has demonstrated that complex “epigenetic” mechanisms, which regulate gene activity without altering the DNA code, exert long-lasting effects within mature nerve cells. This review summarizes recent evidence for the existence of sustained epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation in nerve cells that have been implicated in the long-lasting regulation of complex behavior, including behavioral abnormalities in several psychiatric disorders such drug addiction and depression. We also critique recent and still uncertain evidence that similar epigenetic changes, occurring in germ cells, might mediate the trans-generational transmission of behavioral experience and, possibly, mental illness.
3C279: Evidence for a Non-Superrelativistic Model

Measurements of the variation of the total flux density of the quasistellar radio source 3C279 provide evidence for an alternate model to explain the recently reported apparent source expansion rate of ten times the speed of light.
Use of Magnetic Anchoring and Guidance Systems to Facilitate Single Trocar Laparoscopy

A magnetic anchoring and guidance system uses instruments that can be inserted through a laparoscopic port site into the abdomen and then controlled through coupling with an externally held magnet. Use of these tools can improve the ergonomics of laparoscopic surgery, allowing positioning of intra-abdominal instruments that do not require a separate transabdominal trocar. Further developments of this technology have occurred in multiple surgical fields, broadening their utility and improving the instrumentation.
Enhancement of the locomotor response to d-amphetamine by olfactory bulb damage in rats.

Abstract Bilateral removal of approximately 60% of the olfactory bulbs of ovariectomized female rats enhanced the locomotor response to d-amphetamine. The bulb damage did not reliably alter amphetamine-induced stereotypy or anorexia. The results were interpreted as being consistent with the idea that the olfactory bulbs may exert an inhibitory influence over some aspects of behavior in rats.
The influence of placebo awareness on stimulant drug response in a double-blind trial.

Abstract Rationale. Critics have called into question findings from double-blind placebo-controlled studies because subjects are given drug administration instructions informing them of a placebo condition. The assertion that these drug administration instructions bias estimates of effectiveness has undergone surprisingly little empirical investigation. Objectives. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether drug administration instructions informing subjects of a placebo condition affect the drug response and affect the saliva concentration of the stimulant. Methods. We assessed caffeine responses and levels of saliva concentration of caffeine in 52 subjects who were randomly assigned to receive one of two drug administration instructions: (a) placebo-informed instructions (i.e., individuals informed of the placebo) analogous to those used in double-blind studies and (b) placebo-uninformed instructions (i.e., individuals informed they are taking an active stimulant). Results. On most measures (systolic blood pressure, heart rate, hand steadiness, reaction time, fatigue, and tension), drug administration instructions did not significantly influence caffeine response. Instructions also had no significant effect on saliva concentration of caffeine. However, only individuals who were uninformed of the placebo condition showed significant diastolic blood pressure and vigor increases with 125 mg caffeine, and significant hand steadiness impairment and vigor increases with 325 mg caffeine compared to placebo. Conclusions. These overall findings suggest that a limited bias is introduced by drug administration instructions. The results do not support any suggestion that information about the existence of a placebo condition dramatically influences conclusions drawn about drug responses in placebo-controlled trials.
Prevalence of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose levels among US adolescents: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999-2002.

Objective To determine the current prevalence of self-reported diabetes and impaired fasting glucose levels among US adolescents. Design and Setting Cross-sectional, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2002). Participants A sample of 4370 adolescents (aged 12-19 years) with self-reported diabetes and a subsample of 1496 adolescents without self-reported diabetes who had fasted for at least 8 hours. Subjects who reported having diabetes and using insulin were further categorized as having type 1 diabetes, those reporting having diabetes and not using insulin as having type 2 diabetes, and those with a fasting plasma glucose level greater than or equal to 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) as having impaired fasting glucose levels. Main Outcome Measures Prevalence of self-reported diabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and impaired fasting glucose levels among US adolescents. Results In the full sample, 0.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24%-0.76%) of adolescents reported having diabetes. Of those reporting diabetes, roughly 71% (95% CI, 56%-86%) were categorized as having type 1 and 29% (95% CI, 14%-44%) as having type 2 diabetes. In the subsample, roughly 11% (95% CI, 8%-14%) had impaired fasting glucose levels. Using population-based sample weights, these proportions were equivalent to 39 005 US adolescents with type 2 diabetes and 2 769 736 with impaired fasting glucose levels. Conclusions The prevalence of type 2 diabetes and impaired fasting glucose levels is substantial among US adolescents. These estimates have important implications for public health because of the high rate of conversion from impaired fasting glucose level to type 2 diabetes in adults and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Error-related hyperactivity of the anterior cingulate cortex in obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Background: Hyperactivity of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been shown to increase with symptom provocation and to normalize with treatment-induced symptom reduction. Although the functional significance of anterior cingulate involvement in OCD remains unknown, electrophysiological evidence has linked this region to error-processing abnormalities in patients with OCD. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we sought to further localize error-processing differences within the ACC of OCD patients compared with healthy subjects. Methods: Event-related fMRI data were collected for eight OCD patients and seven healthy subjects during the performance of a simple cognitive task designed to elicit errors but not OCD symptoms. Results: Both OCD patients and healthy subjects demonstrated dorsal ACC activation during error commission. The OCD patients exhibited significantly greater error-related activation of the rostral ACC than comparison subjects. Activity in this region was positively correlated with symptom severity in the patients. Conclusions: Error-processing abnormalities within the rostral anterior cingulate occur in the absence of symptom expression in patients with OCD.
The Facts of the Weather Extreme Events in the United States: Is there a Trend?

Numerous weather and climate extremes impact human society, the societal infrastructure, and the natural environment. The main purposes of this study were to review the historical record of weather extremes in the United States, identify the frequency and intensity of severe storms in the historical record, and examine the extent of economic damage resulting from those extreme events which occurred over the most recent decades. Potential changes in climate are forecast to result in possible frequency and/or intensity changes in extreme events, increases in precipitation, decreases in extreme low temperatures, increases in extreme high temperature, and changes in ecological systems such as climate-induced phonological shifts and possible biological extinctions. However, the impacts of tropical storms, hurricanes, and rainfalls on society and the nature systems need to be further investigated due to the difficulties of evaluations on variations of storms’ activities (intensity and frequency). Climatologists, biologists, and social scientists need to work together to bridge the gaps among the disciplines. Future research may consider focusing on future trends and changes in frequency of extreme events based on the outcomes of the most integrated climate models to evaluate the relationships between the severe weather extremes and the continued greenhouse gas scenarios of the coming decades.
The use of interparticle coordinates in electronic energy calculations for atoms and molecules

The use of interparticle coordinates in atomic and molecular calculations is reviewed and emphasized. For states where the wave function is dependent only upon interparticle coordinates the Hamiltonian is a relatively simple expression. If the wave function is a linear combination of products of functions of single interparticle coordinates of the exponential power form the formulas for local energy are particularly simple.