cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Possibility of Propagation between Myocardial Cells not Connected by Low-Resistance Pathways

The vertebrate myocardium is an assembly of short individual cells, separated at their ends by the intercalated disks (ID). The fluid in the ID gap is continuous with the bulk interstitial fluid, and the gap thickness averages about 200 A (Sperelakis and Rubio, 1971). Regions in which the two membranes come into closer proximity (about 20 A), the gap junctions, are found abundantly in mammalian hearts, but such specialized contacts are rare and much smaller in area in lower vertebrates (for references, see Sperelakis, 1979). A step on the rising phase of the action potential, resembling a post-junctional potential, becomes prominent under conditions of impeded propagation (Hoshiko and Sperelakis, 1962). Increase in gap width occurs in conditions that depress propagation (see Sperelakis, 1979), and the cell-to-cell transmission process is labile (Sperelakis and Hoshiko, 1961; Sperelakis, 1969). Contiguous cells become functionally disconnected at the IDs following focal injury (De Mello, 1972) and under other experimental conditions (see review by Sperelakis, 1979).
Structures of Prion Proteins and Conformational Models for Prion Diseases

Prions are a novel class of “infectious” pathogens distinct from viroids and viruses with respect to both their structure and the neurodegenerative diseases that they cause (PRUSINER 1991). Prion diseases are manifest as sporadic, inherited, and infectious disorders including scrapie, mink encephalopathy, chronic wasting disease, bovine spongiform encephalopathy, feline spongiform encephalopathy, and exotic ungulate encephalopathy of animals (MARSH et al. 1991; WESTAWAY et al. 1994b; WILESMITH and WELLS 1991) as well as kuru, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker syndrome, and fatal familial insomnia of humans (GAJDUSEK 1977; HSIAO et al. 1989; Medori et al. 1992). The prion protein (PrP) is the major, if not the only, component of prions (PRUSINER 1991). PrP exists in two isoforms: the normal cellular form (PrPc) and the abnormal disease-related form (PrPSc) (MEYER et al. 1986; OESCH et al. 1985).
MicroRNA SNPs in Cancer

MiRNAs could serve as the regulators of cell events, including such as differentiation, propagation, and apoptosis. MiRNAs could act as natural oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Whether a particular miRNA serves as either could almost be moot when the additional problems of SNPs enter the fray. A miRNA involved with SNPs (miR-SNPs) on any regulatory level, whether naturally cancer-inducing or not, could easily undergo an oncogenic transformation. This chapter reviews targets of miRNAs and the miRNAs themselves frequently containing SNPs reflecting different risks and markers of cancer with emphasis on familial groups and populations of shared heredity.
Measurements and analytics of wide-area file transfers over dedicated connections

Distributed scientific and big-data computations are becoming increasingly dependent on access to remote files. Wide-area file transfers are supported by two basic schemes: (i) application-level tools, such as GridFTP, that provide transport services between file systems housed at geographically separated sites, and (ii) file systems mounted over wide-area networks, using mechanisms such as LNet routers that make them transparently available. In both cases, the file transfer performance critically depends on the configuration consisting of host, file, IO, and disk subsystems, which are complex by themselves, as well as on their complex compositions implemented using buffers and IO-network data transitions. We present extensive file transfer rate measurements collected over dedicated 10 Gbps connections with 0-366 ms round-trip times, using GridFTP and XDD file transfer tools, and Lustre file system extended over wide-area networks using LNet routers. Our test configurations are composed of: three types of host systems; XFS, Lustre, and ext3 file systems; and Ethernet and SONET wide-area connections. We present analytics based on the convexity-concavity of throughput profiles which provide insights into throughput and its superior or inferior trend compared to linear interpolations. We propose the utilization-concavity coefficient, a scalar metric that characterizes the overall performance of any file transfer method consisting of specific configuration and scheme. Our results enable performance optimizations by highlighting the significant roles of (i) buffer sizes and parallelism in GridFTP and XDD, and (ii) buffer utilization and credit mechanism in LNet routers.
Impaired Glycoprotein VI-Mediated Signaling and Platelet Functional Responses in CD45 Knockout Mice.

Background and Objective CD45 is a receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase present on the surface of all hematopoietic cells except for erythrocytes and platelets. Proteomics studies, however, have demonstrated the presence of a CD45 c-terminal catalytic peptide in platelets. Therefore, we investigated the functional role of this truncated isoform of CD45 in platelets, which contains the c-terminal catalytic domain but lacks the extracellular region. Methods and Results We used an antibody specific to the c-terminus of CD45 to confirm the presence of a truncated CD45 isoform in platelets. We also examined ex vivo and in vivo platelet function using CD45 knockout (KO) mice. Aggregation and secretion mediated by the glycoprotein VI (GPVI) receptor was impaired in CD45 KO platelets. Consequently, CD45 KO mice had impaired hemostasis indicated by increased tail bleeding times. Also, using a model of pulmonary embolism we showed that CD45 KO mice had defective in vivo thrombus formation. Next, we investigated whether or not the truncated isoform of CD45 had a role in GPVI signaling. The full-length isoform of CD45 is known to regulate Src family kinase (SFK) activation in lymphocytes. We find a similar role for the truncated isoform of CD45 in platelets. SFK activation was impaired downstream of the GPVI receptor in the CD45 KO murine platelets. Consequently, Syk, PLCγ2, and pleckstrin phosphorylations were also impaired in CD45 KO murine platelets. Conclusion We conclude that the truncated CD45 isoform regulates GPVI-mediated signaling and platelet functional responses by regulating SFK activation.
Effectiveness of Hands-Only Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Teaching on Lay Bystander Attitudes Toward Future Resuscitation

# CONTEXT It is estimated that there are approximately 1,000 sudden cardiac events occurring daily outside of the hospital setting in the US. # OBJECTIVES The objectives of this pilot project were to determine lay participants’ ability to remember the steps of hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (HOCPR) following a 30-minute instructional session regarding proper technique and their willingness to perform bystander CPR (BCPR) on victims of sudden cardiac arrest outside in the community. # SAMPLE AND SETTING A nine-item survey questionnaire that was created by the authors was first administered to a sample of 75 adults who had volunteered at their institutions’ emergency department. Inclusion criteria included all adults over the age of eighteen years. # OUTCOME MEASURES To gauge whether basic HOCPR training improved bystander preparedness and willingness to provide assistance to a victim of sudden cardiac event. # METHODS After IRB approval, participants were shown a one-minute video by the American Heart Association (AHA) and provided a 30-minute demonstration of key HOCPR skills on a mannequin. A post-instruction nine-item survey was sent by mail/email or administered by phone at one month after training to assess participants’ retention of HOCPR knowledge and attitude. # RESULTS The initial survey responses showed 75 (100%) were able to recall the basic steps of HOCPR, with 59 (79%) “very likely” to help provide BCPR. Not needing to provide breaths made 57 (76%) of lay participants more willing to assist a person in need. A subgroup of 31 (41%) of the initial 75 participants were lost to follow-up. Out of the 44 (59%) who completed the one-month survey, 44 (100%) of participants remembered the primary HOCPR steps and technique. A subgroup of 32 (73%) one-month respondents indicated that they were more likely to assist victims if rescue breathing was not required, and 11 (25%) had reportedly tried to teach family and friends about HOCPR. # CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that of those involved in the survey, the majority could recall the correct steps and be willing to provide HOCPR. These results could help in shaping community outreach and training programs designed to improve the rate and quality of response to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.
Smartphone Thermal Imaging in the Detection of Testicular Ischemia.

Abstract Objective To evaluate smartphone thermal imaging as a point of care test in the detection of testicular ischemia. Thermal imaging detects the infrared (heat) pattern of an object and the technology is now available as an inexpensive attachment to smartphones. Materials and Methods Smartphone thermal imaging was studied as a point-of-care diagnostic test for testicular ischemia in an IACUC approved study that prioritized survival of all animal subjects. Thirty canines weighing over 12 kg were observed during elective neuter procedures with consent from owners. Randomization determined ligation of the right vs left spermatic cord. With both testicles remaining in the scrotum, blinded inspection was performed with a FLIR ONE Pro thermal imaging camera for smartphone use. The bilateral orchiectomy procedures were then completed as planned. Results Within 11 minutes of ligation of the randomized spermatic cord, an obvious change in the thermal imaging pattern allowed for the correct diagnosis of the ischemic testicle in 30/30 (100%) of subjects in a blinded fashion. Temperature differences between testicles at the time of ischemia diagnosis ranged from 0.7°C to 3.7°C with an average difference of 1.79°C lower in the ischemic testicle (95% CI: [1.50, 2.08]). A thermal imaging evaluation of the testicles takes 30 seconds to perform. Conclusion Smartphone thermal imaging correctly diagnosed testicular ischemia in 100% of animal subjects in a blinded fashion. The clinical utility of this emerging point-of-care technique in the evaluation of testicular torsion is currently unknown.
Evidence Supporting the Mechanisms of Enteric Protection Provided by Colostral Whey Fed Supplements

With the increasing public concern over the use of antibiotics in the production of meat and dairy animals, we decided to examine bovine colostral whey as a source of safe, effective biological agents to control enteric pathogens and promote the growth of neonatal and weaning animals. Colostral whey, its antibody rich and/or antibody poor fractions were found to have bactericidal activity against 0157 E.coli and bacteriostatic activity against a wide range of enteropathogenic bacteria. These same colostral whey preparations did not inhibit the growth of non-pathogenic strains tested. The colostral whey preparations inhibited cytotoxic activity of Shiga-like toxin, the infection of cultured cells with enteric viruses and exhibited some anabolic activity on cultured cells. In an in vivo experiment with gnotobiotic animals, the colostral whey reduced the severity of an experimental infection and partly blocked the induction of systemic immunosuppression. We feel these effects were mediated by inhibition of the growth of the challenge E. coli and inhibition of the action of the Shiga-like toxin, which appears to be involved in the development of the immunosuppression. These studies suggest that colostral components may be good candidates for biological replacements of antibiotics as supplements to young animals.
Seasonal environmental variability drives microdiversity within a coastal Synechococcus population.

Marine microbes often show a high degree of physiological or ecological diversity below the species level. This microdiversity raises questions about the processes that drive diversification and permit coexistence of diverse yet closely-related marine microbes, especially given the theoretical efficiency of competitive exclusion. Here, we provide insight with an 8-year time series of diversity within Synechococcus, a widespread and important marine picophytoplankter. The population of Synechococcus on the Northeast U.S. Shelf is comprised of six main types, each of which displays a distinct and consistent seasonal pattern. With compositional data analysis, we show that these patterns can be reproduced with a simple model that couples differential responses to temperature and light with the seasonal cycle of the physical environment. These observations support the hypothesis that temporal variability in environmental factors can maintain microdiversity in marine microbial populations. We also identify how seasonal diversity patterns directly determine overarching Synechococcus population abundance features. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Fuzzy set intersection based paired-end short-read alignment

Much genomic data comes in the form of paired-end reads: two reads that represent genetic material with a small gap between. We present a new algorithm for aligning both reads in a pair simultaneously by fuzzily intersecting the sets of candidate alignment locations for each read. This algorithm is often much faster and produces alignments that result in variant calls having roughly the same concordance as the best competing aligners.
Abstract P249: A Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention is Effective for Change in CVD Risk Factors in Young Adults: The IDEA Study

Introduction: Few studies have examined behavioral weight loss interventions with respect to change in cardiovascular disease risk factors in young adults (aged 18 to 35 years). Hypothesis: We tested the hypothesis that a 6 month behavioral weight loss intervention resulted in significant improvements in selective cardiovascular disease risk factors in young adults. Methods: Data are presented as median [25 th , 75 th percentiles]. 470 participants (age: 30.9 [27.8, 33.7] years); BMI: 31.2 [28.4, 34.3] kg/m 2 ) were enrolled in a 6 month behavioral weight loss intervention that included weekly group sessions and prescribed an energy restricted diet and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Assessments included weight using a standardized protocol, resting blood pressure, and fasting lipids, glucose, and insulin. Statistical significance of change was according to tests of symmetry or the Wilcoxon matched pairs signed ranks test. Results: The primary outcome (weight) was available for 424 of the 470 participants (90.2%). Weight significantly decreased (-7.8 kg [-12.2, -3.7]) (p Conclusions: In conclusion, after 6 months, weight loss was observed in young adults assigned to this behavioral intervention that focused on physical activity and diet modification. They tended to also have improved cardiovascular disease risk factors. This may demonstrate an approach to reducing cardiovascular disease risk in young adults. Supported by NIH (U01HL096770) and AHA (12BGIA9410032)
Purification and properties of lipid A disaccharide synthase of Escherichia coli.

Abstract Lipid A disaccharide synthase of Escherichia coli catalyzes the reaction 2,3-diacyl-GlcN-1-P + UDP-2,3-diacyl-GlcN----2',3'-diacyl-GlcN (beta,1'----6)2,3-diacyl-GlcN-1-P + UDP (Ray, B. L., Painter, G., and Raetz, C. R. H. (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 4852-4859). Using a strain that overproduces the enzyme about 200-fold we have devised a simple purification to near homogeneity, utilizing two types of dye-ligand resins and heparin-agarose. The overall purification starting with membrane-free extracts was 54-fold (16,000-fold relative to wild-type extracts) with a 31% yield. The subunit molecular mass determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis is approximately 42,000 daltons, and the native enzyme appears to be a dimer. The amino-terminal sequence is (X)-(Thr)-Glu-Gln-(X)-Pro-Leu-Thr-Ie-Ala..., consistent with the results predicted from the DNA sequence, Met-Thr-Glu-Gln-Arg-Pro-Leu-Thr-Ile-Ala.... The purified enzyme displays a strong kinetic preference for sugar substrates bearing two fatty acyl moieties, but it is, nevertheless, very useful for the semisynthetic preparation of many lipid A analogs. Gel filtration studies demonstrate that the natural substrates (2,3-diacyl-GlcN-1-P and UDP-2,3-diacyl-GlcN) form micelles (n approximately equal to 300), rather than bilayers, under conditions used to assay the enzyme. Unlike most enzymes of glycerophospholipid synthesis, the lipid A disaccharide synthase does not require the presence of a detergent for catalytic activity. At 1 mM UDP-2,3-diacyl-GlcN the Vmax and Km values for 2,3-diacyl-GlcN-1-P are 14,028 +/- 513 nmol/min/mg and 0.27 +/- 0.02 mM. When 2,3-diacyl-GlcN-1-P is maintained at 1 mM, they are 12,368 +/- 472 nmol/min/mg and 0.11 +/- 0.01 mM for UDP-2,3-diacyl-GlcN.
On evolving intelligence

The field of AI is now more than 30 years old and has produced a variety of impressive intelligent systems as well as some striking failures. As we continue to raise our goals and expectations, it becomes increasingly clear that simple, single methodology approaches are inadequate. However, the design and implementation of complex, multifaceted systems is quite difficult in general, and there are signs that we are reaching the limits of our ability to hand-construct such AI systems. In this paper I argue that evolutionary algorithms have considerable potential for the design of such systems and that we need to seriously consider the notion of evolving intelligence.
Hierarchical shape recognition using polygon approximation and dynamic alignment

A method for classifying closed planar shapes is presented. A shape is preprocessed and represented by several ordered sequences of vertices which are obtained by using an optimal polygon approximation algorithm with different approximation error criteria. A dynamic alignment algorithm is used to compute a similarity index between two sets of shape descriptors. The shape recognition process is hierarchical and invariant to rotation, translation and scaling. Classification experiments using noisy contours and objects have been performed with satisfactory results. >
Germany, Hitler, and World War II: A proposed compromise over Danzig in 1939?

Although the general outlines of German–Polish relations in the last year before the outbreak of World War II have been known for some time, a number of important details came to light only slowly, and some of these have never been properly integrated into the generally accepted picture of either the final crisis or the personalities who played major roles in it. As additional documents have been published and some of the archives opened, it has become possible to trace the development of German–Polish relations with increasing precision. One of the problems which needs investigation as new material becomes available is the question of whether and under what conditions either country might have been willing to compromise on any of the issues which arose. The positions actually assumed by the two counties and the outcome of the negotiations will be understandable only when the various possibilities considered during the period from October 1938 to August 1939 have been clarified. The problems raised in the negotiations ranged from the intended issuance of certain Polish stamps considered offensive by the Germans to the German demand that Poland adhere to the Anti-Comintern Pact. The question raised first and the one most in the public eye at the time and frequently also in retrospect is the issue of Danzig, as it was then called, now Gdansk. This city, together with its environs, had been made a Free City under the protection of the League of Nations by the Treaty of Versailles. By the end of 1938, its status as a territory separate from Germany was still intact.
Family Farming in the Midwest in the Early Twentieth Century: A Review Essay

Review of: "A Good Day's Work: an Iowa Farm Family in the Great Depression," by Dwight Hoover; "Little Heathens: Hard Times and High Spirits on an Iowa Farm during the Depression", by Mildred Armstrong Kalish; and "Days on the Family Farm: From the Golden Age through the Great Depression," by Carrie A. Meyer.
Mutations in Gsf1 and Gsf2 Alter Glucose Signaling in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae

One function of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Snf1 protein kinase is to relieve glucose repression of SUC, GAL, and other genes in response to glucose depletion. To identify genes that regulate Snf1 kinase activity, we have selected mutants that inappropriately express a SUC2promoter::HIS3 gene fusion when grown in glucose and that require Snf1 function for this phenotype. Mutations representing two new complementation groups (gsf1 and gsf2) were isolated. gsf1 mutations affect two distinct responses to glucose: the Snf1-regulated glucose repression of SUC2 and GAL10 transcription and the Snf1-independent induction by glucose of HXT1 transcription. gsf2 mutations relieve glucose repression of SUC2 and GAL10 transcription and, in combination with snf1Δ, cause an extreme slow growth phenotype. The GSF2 gene was cloned by complementation of the gsf2-1 snf1Δ slow growth phenotype and encodes a previously uncharacterized 46 kD protein.
Do otolaryngology residency applicants relocate for training

Objectives/Hypothesis To determine whether there is an association between the geographic location of an applicant's undergraduate school, medical school, and residency program among matched otolaryngology residency applicants. Study Design Observational. Methods Otolaryngology residency program applications to our institution from 2009 to 2013 were analyzed. The geographic location of each applicant's undergraduate education and medical education were collected. Online public records were queried to determine the residency program location of matched applicants. Applicants who did not match or who attended medical school outside the United States were excluded. Metro area, state, and region were determined according to US Census Bureau definitions. Results From 2009 to 2013, 1,089 (78%) of 1,405 applicants who matched into otolaryngology residency applied to our institution. The number of subjects who attended medical school and residency in the same geographic region was 241 (22%) for metropolitan area, 305 (28%) for state, and 436 (40%) for region. There was no difference in geographic location retention by gender or couples match status of the subject. United States Medical Licensing Exam step 1 scores correlated with an increased likelihood of subjects staying within the same geographic region (P = .03). Conclusions Most otolaryngology applicants leave their previous geographic area to attend residency. Based on these data, the authors recommend against giving weight to geography as a factor when inviting applicants to interview. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope, 2015
Cryogenic hydrogen maser at 10 Kelvin

We have constructed and are evaluating an atomic hydrogen maser that oscillates at temperatures ranging from 8.5 to 11.5 kelvins. The principal scientific purpose for which the maser was constructed is to study the effects of hyperfine interactions during collisions on the radiative frequency shifts produced by the collisions. An equally important technological objective is to explore the reductions of short term frequency fluctuations postulated for low temperature operation. Our maser oscillates strongly using atomic beam intensities about 10/sup 12/ state selected atoms s/sup -1/, with output power (at temperatures above 10 K) essentially undiminished by collisions between atoms or with the storage surface. Preliminary frequency measurements indicate that the short term stability of our cryogenic maser is at least as good as the measurement limitations imposed by the short term frequency stability of the conventional hydrogen masers that we use as frequency references. >
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Literacy Instruction for English Language Learners with Learning Disabilities

In this article, we present a review of research studies that address special education literacy instruction for English language learners (ELLs) with learning disabilities (LD) and ELLs with low literacy achievement in elementary and middle school grades. We describe research on the following categories: a) culturally and linguistically responsive teachers and instruction; b) special education literacy interventions; and c) sheltered English support so that students can access and be successful with the general education curriculum. These topics represent essential instructional components for the academic success of ELLs with LD.
Where fast weathering creates thin regolith and slow weathering creates thick regolith

Weathering disaggregates rock into regolith – the fractured or granular earth material that sustains life on the continental land surface. Here, we investigate what controls the depth of regolith formed on ridges of two rock compositions with similar initial porosities in Virginia (USA). A priori, we predicted that the regolith on diabase would be thicker than on granite because the dominant mineral (feldspar) in the diabase weathers faster than its granitic counterpart. However, weathering advanced 20× deeper into the granite than the diabase. The 20 × -thicker regolith is attributed mainly to connected micron-sized pores, microfractures formed around oxidizing biotite at 20 m depth, and the lower iron (Fe) content in the felsic rock. Such porosity allows pervasive advection and deep oxidation in the granite. These observations may explain why regolith worldwide is thicker on felsic compared to mafic rock under similar conditions. To understand regolith formation will require better understanding of such deep oxidation reactions and how they impact fluid flow during weathering. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality Outcomes in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit after Electronic Health Record Implementation

Background: The electronic health record (EHR) is increasingly viewed as a means to provide more coordinated, patient-centered care. Few studies consider the impact of EHRs on quality of care in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. Objectives: To evaluate key quality measures of a surgical intensive care unit (SICU) following implementation of the Epic EHR system in a tertiary hospital. Methods: A retrospective chart review was undertaken to record quality indicators for all patients admitted to the SICU two years before and two years after EHR implementation. Data from the twelve-month period of transition to EHR was excluded. We collected length of stay, mortality, central line associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) rates, Clostridium difficile (C. diff.) colitis rates, readmission rates, and number of coded diagnoses. To control for variation in the patient population over time, the case mix indexes (CMIs) and APACHE II scores were also analyzed. Results: There was no significant difference in length of stay, C. diff. colitis, readmission rates, or case mix index before and after EHR. After EHR implementation, the rate of central line blood stream infection (CLABSI) per 1 000 catheter days was 85% lower (2.16 vs 0.39; RR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.61, p Conclusions: EHR implementation was statistically associated with reductions in CLABSI rates and SICU mortality. The EHR had an integral role in ongoing quality improvement endeavors which may explain the changes in CLABSI and mortality, and this invites further study of the impact of EHRs on quality of care in the ICU.
Classical and Bayesian Seismic Yield Estimation: The 1998 Indian and Pakistani Tests

— The nuclear tests in May, 1998, in India and Pakistan have stimulated a renewed interest in yield estimation, based on limited data from uncalibrated test sites. We study here the problem of estimating yields using classical and Bayesian methods developed by Shumway (1992), utilizing calibration data from the Semipalatinsk test site and measured magnitudes for the 1998 Indian and Pakistani tests given by Murphy (1998). Calibration is done using multivariate classical or Bayesian linear regression, depending on the availability of measured magnitude-yield data and prior information. Confidence intervals for the classical approach are derived applying an extension of Fieller's method suggested by Brown (1982). In the case where prior information is available, the posterior predictive magnitude densities are inverted to give posterior intervals for yield. Intervals obtained using the joint distribution of magnitudes are comparable to the single-magnitude estimates produced by Murphy (1998) and reinforce the conclusion that the announced yields of the Indian and Pakistani tests were too high.
American Agriculture in the Twentieth Century . By Bruce L. Gardner. Cambridge MA and London: Harvard University Press, 2002. Pp. ix, 388. $49.95.

With meticulous detail, Bruce Gardner provides insight into the evolution of U.S. agriculture over the 100-year period between 1900 and 2000. In doing so, Gardner reflects on several facets of agriculture, such as innovation, on-farm productivity, the declining number of farms, the income status of U.S. farmers, and the role of government agricultural policy. Much of Gardner's analysis relies on census data, which are fraught with shortcomings. Definitions that seem straightforward, such as â€œfarmâ€ or â€œfarm operator,â€ are actually quite complicated, so even a seemingly simple task such as tracking the number of farms over time is not trivial. Gardner skillfully addresses the challenges presented by the deficiencies of census data.
QUANTITATIVE CLAY MINERALOGICAL ANALYSIS OF SOILS AND SEDIMENTS

THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS PAPER IS TO PRESENT FLOW SHEETS FOR A SYSTEM OF QUANTITATIVE MINERALOGICAL ANALYSIS OF CLAYS OF SOILS AND SEDIMENTS AND TO SHOW REPRESENTATIVE RESULTS. SELECTIVE DISSOLUTION ANALYSIS YIELDS THE QUARTZ AND FELDSPAR CONTENTS /0 TO 63 PERCENT/ AND DIFFERENTIATES FELDSPAR K FROM MICA K. THE NAOH-THERMAL SYSTEM OF SELECTIVE DISSOLUTION YIELDS THE ALLOPHANE PLUS GIBBSITE, KAOLINITE PLUS HALLOYSITE, AND DICKITE CONTENTS /0 TO 84 PERCENT FOR THE SEDIMENTS 1 TO 25 PERCENT FOR SOIL CLAYS/ MICA CONTENTS /0 TO 92 PERCENT FOR THE ROCK SPECIMENS, 7 TO 43 PERCENT FOR SOIL CLAYS/ ARE DETERMINED BY NONFELDSPATHIC K /AND NA/ VERMICULITE CONTENTS /1 TO 97 PERCENT OF SPECIMENS, 3 TO 21 PERCENT FOR SOIL CLAYS/ ARE MEASURED BY BLOCKING OF INTERLAYER CEC BY DRYING AT 110 DEGREES C WHILE K SATURATED AND REPLACING WITH AMMONIUM CHLORIDE. MONTMORILLONITE /AND PALYGORSKITE/ CONTENTS /0 TO 85 PERCENT OF SPECIMENS, 3 TO 36 PERCENT OF SOIL CLAYS/ ARE DETERMINED BY THE CEC NOT BLOCKED BY THE K AND AMMONIA SEQUENCE FOR VERMICULITE. CHLORITE CONTENTS /0 TO 85 PERCENT FOR SPECIMENS, 0 TO 37 PERCENT FOR SOIL CLAYS/ ARE DETERMINED BY THERMAL GRAVIMETRIC ANALYSIS, AFTER ALLOCATION OF OH WATER LOST BETWEEN 300 AND 950 DEGREES C TO OTHER HYDROUS MINERALS DETERMINED. THE BEST EVIDENCE OF THE ACCURACY OF THE SYSTEM OF ANALYSIS LIES IN THE CONSISTENT TOTAL RECOVERY OF 24 STANDARD MINERAL SAMPLES AVERAGING 100.4 PLUS OR MINUS 1.3 /PLUS OR MINUS STANDARD ERROR OF MEANS/ AND OF 22 SOIL CLAY SAMPLES AVERAGING 99.5 PLUS OR MINUS 0.8. THE DIFFERENT CONSTITUENTS WERE PRESENT IN WIDELY DIFFERENT PROPORTIONS IN THE VARIOUS SAMPLES, AND WERE DETERMINED BY INDEPENDENT METHODS. THE COMPLEMENTARY TOTAL OF NEAR 100 PERCENT /MAXIMUM RANGE 95 TO 105 PERCENT FOR SPECIMENS, 95 TO 103 PERCENT FOR SOIL CLAYS/ FOR THE ANALYSES IS A SIGNIFICANT MEASURE OF THE SPECIFICITY OF THE SEVERAL DETERMINATIONS. /AUTHOR/
Robot grasp synthesis algorithms: a survey

This article presents a survey of the existing computational algorithms meant for achieving four important properties in autonomous multifingered robotic hands. The four properties are: dexterity, equilibrium, stability, and dynamic behavior The multifingered robotic hands must be controlled so as to possess these properties and hence be able to autonomously perform complex tasks in a way similar to human hands.Existing algorithms to achieve dexterity primarily involve solving an unconstrained linear programming problem where an objective function can be chosen to represent one or more of the currently known dexterity measures. Algorithms to achieve equilibrium also constitute solving a linear program ming problem wherein the positivity, friction, and joint torque constraints of all fingers are accounted for while optimizing the internal grasping forces. Stability algorithms aim at achiev ing positive definite grasp impedance matrices by solving for the required fingertip impedances. This problem reduces ...
Effects of temperature, irradiance, and daylength on the marine diatom Leptocylindrus danicus Cleve, IV. Growth

Abstract Growth and dark respiration rates of the marine diatom Leptocylindrus danicus Cleve were measured in axenic batch culture under 49 combinations of temperature (5, 10, 15, 20°C), daylength(15:9, 12:12, 9:15 LD), and irradiance (at least four irradiances per daylength). Cell division rates exhibited a temperature-dependent daylength effect. Optimal temperatures occurred between 15 and 20°C. Both the initial slope (α) and the growth rate at light saturation (μmax) were strongly influenced by temperature; α increased five-fold and μmax by an order of magnitude between 5 and 20°C. The compensation irradiance (Ic) was independent of temperature. μmax was 2.7 div day−1 at 20°C, 2.6 at 15°C, 1.1 at 10°C, and 0.3 at 5 °C. Cells grown under 15:9 and 12:12 LD exhibited similar growth-light curves at 20°C and at 15°C. μmax of cells grown under 9:15 LD at these temperatures were substantially lower than μmax under longer daylengths. Growth at 10 and 5°C was independent of daylength. Dark respiration rates were a linear function of cell division rates at 10, 15, and 20°C, and support the concept that growth rate is dependent on dark respiration rate. These relationships were not influenced by daylength. A detectable relationship between dark respiration and growth at 5°C was not observed. Photosynthesis and excretion showed temperature-dependent curvilinear relationships with growth rate, reflecting the lower saturation irradiance for growth compared to light saturation of photosynthesis and excretion. The relationship between Chl a-specific photosynthesis and growth was controlled by the C:Chl a ratio, which showed a positive correlation with cell division rate. At 15 and 20°C, light saturation of growth was associated with C:Chl a ratios of 40 to 60; at 5 and 10°C, cells growing at μmax contained C:Chl a in ratios of 80 to 110.
Zebrafish and conditioned place preference: A translational model of drug reward

Addiction and substance abuse are found ubiquitously throughout human society. In the United States, these disorders are responsible for amassing hundreds of billions of dollars in annual costs associated with healthcare, crime and lost productivity. Efficacious treatments remain few in number, the development of which will be facilitated by comprehension of environmental, genetic, pharmacological and neurobiological mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of addiction. Animal models such as the zebrafish (Danio rerio) have gained momentum within various domains of translational research, and as a model of complex brain disorders (e.g., drug abuse). Behavioral quantification within the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm serves as a measure of the rewarding qualities of a given substance. If the animal develops an increase in preference for the drug paired environment, it is inferred that the drug has positive-reinforcing properties. This paper discusses the utility of the zebrafish model in conjunction with the CPP paradigm and reports CPP behavior following acute exposure to 0.0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, and 1.00% alcohol, and 0 mg/L, 50 mg/L, 100 mg/L and 150 mg/L caffeine.
An Uncommon Cause of Headache

A healthy 46-year-old Caucasian woman complained of a 4-week history of progressive left-sided headache, nausea and vomiting. One week after symptom onset, computed tomography (CT) of head was normal. Three weeks later, she presented with blurry vision, left otalgia, tinnitus, andhearing loss. Physical examination demonstrated bilateral papilledema, exquisite tenderness of the leftmastoid prominenceand calvarium.Brainmagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with venography showed increased signal on T1weighted images (Panel A) and absence of flow (Panel B) within the left transverse, sigmoid sinuses and left internal jugular vein consistent with extensive cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). The patient did not take oral contraceptives and hypercoagulable evaluation demonstrated lupus anticoagulant. A search for underlying malignancy revealed adenocarcinoma of the lung. CVT is uncommon, with an incidence of <1/100,000 annually. Half of adult patients have multiple risk factors, including prothrombotic conditions, pregnancy or puerperium, malignancy, or otogenic or central nervous system infection. Headache is the most common presenting symptom; the presence of risk factors and signs of increased intracranial pressure should raise the suspicion of CVT. Abnormal signal on brainMRI and corresponding absence of flow on MR venography is diagnostic. Treatment involves anticoagulation, control of elevated intracranial pressure and correction of the underlying etiology. She received full anticoagulation and on hospital day 10 developed cardiac arrest and expired, presumably due tomassive pulmonary thromboembolism.
Spontaneous Lower Motor Neuron Disease in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Spontaneous neurologic disease was observed in 6 to 8-week-old rabbits. Both males and females from several different litters were affected but all were sired by the same male. Clinically, the disease was characterized initially by posterior weakness and incoordination which progressed to tetraplegia within 3--4 weeks. With light microscopy there was neuronal degeneration and loss within the ventral horns of the spinal cord and brain stem and type-II fiber atrophy of skeletal muscles. Ultrastructurally the neuronal degeneration was characterized by accumulations of 100 A neurofilaments within the perikaryon. These findings are compared to diseases with neurofibrillary accumulation in animals and man.
Effect of Bromide Ion on Haloacetic Acid Speciation Resulting from Chlorination and Chloramination of Aquatic Humic Substances

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of bromide ion on the distribution of haloacetic acid (HAA) species resulting from the chlorination and chloramination of waters containing aquatic humic substances. Aquatic humic substances were extracted from a surface water and a groundwater and were chlorinated and chloraminated under standard conditions at pH 8 and pH 6 in the presence of bromide concentrations ranging from 0 to 25 μM (0−2 mg/L). The treated waters were analyzed for all nine of the HAA species containing bromine and chlorine. Standards for bromodichloroacetic acid and dibromochloroacetic acid were not commercially available but were synthesized for use in this study. Bromochloro-, bromodichloro-, and dibromochloroacetic acid were readily formed and constituted at least 10% of the total HAA concentration in waters containing as little as 1.2 μM (0.1 mg/L) bromide. The mixed bromochloro HAA species were major components of the total HAA concentration at bromide concentrations fo...
Bereavement Counseling: Using a Social Work Model for Pet Loss

ABSTRACT Approximately half of American households include at least one companion animal. These anilmas quickly become members of the family. When the animal dies, the human grieves the loss much as they would gieve the death of any family member. This article presents a social work model for assisting clients with pet loss. This model blends traditional grief therapy with the ecosystems perspective of social work practice, and applies that to loss specific to the death of a companion animal. Social workers must increase their competence in addresing issues of pet loss with clients. This model can provide a fundation for the development of the competence.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Ar+–Organic Polymer Interactions

MD simulations of ion―organic styrene-containing polymer interactions are reviewed and compared to experiment. We report results for argon ion bombardment of PS, PαMS and P4MS. All three polymers exhibit the formation of a similar, highly cross-linking, dehydrogenated near-surface damaged layer at steady state, but small changes in the structure of the polymer (P4MS and PαMS are isomers) can lead to drastic changes in the initial transient sputtering of the material. We correlate this behavior to differences in radiation chemistry (P4MS and PS are cross-linking while PaMS is a chain scission polymer), and examine how the behavior in MD may relate to larger-scale experimental results, such as roughness formation.
Oscillations of low-current electrical discharges between parallel-plane electrodes. II. Pulsed discharges in H 2

Measurements are made of damped oscillations in the current and voltage induced by a voltage pulse applied to the stabilizing resistor of discharges in ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ at pressure times electrode spacing values of 0.3 to 1 Torr cm (40--133 Pa cm) operating at voltages of 300 to 2100 V. The use of pulses \ensuremath{\le}1 ms long and repetition rates of 10 Hz results in low ion bombardment of the cathode. For pulse currents of 0.01 to 5 mA (2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}7}$--${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}4}$ A/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$) and an electrode separation and area of 1 cm and 50 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$, the frequencies and damping constants are 10--300 kHz and 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{3}$--${10}^{5}$ ${\mathrm{s}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, respectively. The current densities are small enough so that space-charge distortion of the electric field is small, but not negligible. At currents below those for oscillation growth, the steady-state discharge voltage decreases as expected for a constant negative differential resistance. Values of 1000 to 4000 \ensuremath{\Omega} are obtained depending on pressure and cathode condition. Transient models, developed in an accompanying paper, relate the frequencies, damping constants, and onset of oscillation growth to ion transit times, electron ionization coefficients, and ion-induced electron yields. The growth of discharge current immediately after the application of the voltage pulse is also used to determine discharge parameters.
Receptor-ligand analyses define minimal killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) in humans

Interactions between inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (iKIR) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules regulate natural killer (NK) cell responses to eliminate infected and transformed cells while maintaining tolerance to healthy cells. Unlinked polymorphic gene families encode KIR receptors and HLA class I ligands and their independent segregation results in a variable number and type of iKIR + HLA pairs inherited in individuals. The diversity in the co-inheritance of iKIR + HLA pairs and activating KIR (aKIR) genes in 759 unrelated individuals from four ethnic populations was analyzed. Every individual studied inherited a minimum of one iKIR + HLA pair; suggesting that major histocompatibility complex class I-dependent inhibitory KIR signaling is essential for human NK cell function. In contrast, 13.4% of the study group lacked all aKIR genes. Twenty percent of the study group carried only one of the four iKIR + HLA pairs. Interestingly, 3% of the study group carrying only KIR2DL3 + HLA-C1 as an iKIR + HLA pair lacked aKIR genes. These data suggest that a single iKIR can constitute the minimal KIR repertoire for human NK cells. Genotypes carrying an equal number of iKIR + HLA pairs and aKIR genes represented 20% of the study group. The remaining individuals had either a dominant inhibitory KIR genotype (iKIR + HLA > aKIR) or a dominant activating KIR genotype (iKIR + HLA < aKIR). Genotypes encoding these imbalanced inhibitory and activating interactions may contribute to susceptibility or resistance to human diseases.
Expansion of cylindrical shells subjected to internal explosive detonations

Two explosively loaded cylindrical shell experiments were conducted to provide experimental data for benchmarking numerical codes. Each shell was subjected to internal high-explosive detonations, which caused it to expand outwardly at strain rates on the order of 104 s−1. At approximately 150 percent strain, multiple plastic instabilities appeared on the surface of these shells in a quasi-periodic pattem. These instabilities continued to develop into bands of localized shear and eventually formed cracks before causing the shell to fragment. Diagnostic equipment on these experiments included a Fabry-Perot interferometer and a fast-framing camera. The experiments and the data obtained from the diagnostic equipment are discussed and illustrated.
Preferential Activation of the Hedgehog Pathway by Epigenetic Modulations in HPV Negative HNSCC Identified with Meta-Pathway Analysis

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is largely divided into two groups based on their etiology, human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and –negative. Global DNA methylation changes are known to drive oncogene and tumor suppressor expression in primary HNSCC of both types. However, significant heterogeneity in DNA methylation within the groups results in different transcriptional profiles and clinical outcomes. We applied a meta-pathway analysis to link gene expression changes to DNA methylation in distinguishing HNSCC subtypes. This approach isolated specific epigenetic changes controlling expression in HPV− HNSCC that distinguish it from HPV+ HNSCC. Analysis of genes identified Hedgehog pathway activation specific to HPV− HNSCC. We confirmed that GLI1, the primary Hedgehog target, showed higher expression in tumors compared to normal samples with HPV− tumors having the highest GLI1 expression, suggesting that increased expression of GLI1 is a potential driver in HPV− HNSCC. Our algorithm for integration of DNA methylation and gene expression can infer biologically significant molecular pathways that may be exploited as therapeutics targets. Our results suggest that therapeutics targeting the Hedgehog pathway may be of benefit in HPV− HNSCC. Similar integrative analysis of high-throughput coupled DNA methylation and expression datasets may yield novel insights into deregulated pathways in other cancers.
Mechanism of clathrin basket dissociation: separate functions of protein domains of the DnaJ homologue auxilin.

Auxilin was recently identified as cofactor for hsc70 in the uncoating of clathrin-coated vesicles (Ungewickell, E., H. Ungewickell, S.E. Holstein, R. Lindner, K. Prasad, W. Barouch, B. Martin, L.E. Greene, and E. Eisenberg. 1995. Nature (Lond.). 378: 632-635). By constructing different glutathione-S-transferase (GST)-auxilin fragments, we show here that cooperation of auxilin's J domain (segment 813-910) with an adjoining clathrin binding domain (segment 547-814) suffices to dissociate clathrin baskets in the presence of hsc70 and ATP. When the two domains are expressed as separate GST fusion proteins, the cofactor activity is lost, even though both retain their respective functions. The clathrin binding domain binds to triskelia like intact auxilin with a maximum stoichiometry of 3 and concomitantly promotes their assembly into regular baskets. A fragment containing auxilin's J domain associates in an ATP-dependent reaction with hsc70 to form a complex with a half-life of 8 min at 25 degrees C. When the clathrin binding domain and the J domain are recombined via dimerization of their GST moieties, cofactor activity is partially recovered. The interaction between auxilin's J domain and hsc70 causes rapid hydrolysis of bound ATP. Release of inorganic phosphate appears to be correlated with the disintegration of the complex between auxilin's J domain and hsc70. We infer that the metastable complex composed of auxilin, hsc70, ADP, and P(i) contains an activated form of hsc70, primed to engage clathrin that is brought into apposition with it by the DnaJ homologue auxilin.