cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A load driver device for engineering modularity in biological networks

The behavior of gene modules in complex synthetic circuits is often unpredictable. After joining modules to create a circuit, downstream elements (such as binding sites for a regulatory protein) apply a load to upstream modules that can negatively affect circuit function. Here we devised a genetic device named a load driver that mitigates the impact of load on circuit function, and we demonstrate its behavior in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The load driver implements the design principle of timescale separation: inclusion of the load driver's fast phosphotransfer processes restores the capability of a slower transcriptional circuit to respond to time-varying input signals even in the presence of substantial load. Without the load driver, we observed circuit behavior that suffered from a 76% delay in response time and a 25% decrease in system bandwidth due to load. With the addition of a load driver, circuit performance was almost completely restored. Load drivers will serve as fundamental building blocks in the creation of complex, higher-level genetic circuits.
A valid Margules formulation for an asymmetric ternary solution: revision of the olivine-ilmenite thermometer, with applications

A derivation of a valid asymmetric ternary Margules expression for the excess free energy is presented, and the olivine-ilmenite thermometer is revised accordingly. Although the effect on the thermometer is relatively small, the revision results in improved precision. Estimated temperatures of equilibration are presented for olivine and ilmenite from lunar and terrestrial rocks.
Similarity in the acute cytotoxic response of mammalian cells to mercury (II) and X-rays: DNA damage and glutathione depletion

Abstract Pronounced strand breakage of DNA analyzed by alkaline elution techniques was produced in intact Chinese hamster ovary cells by 25 μM HgCl2 within 1 hr or 100 μM HgCl2 within 15 min. HgCl2-induced strand breakage was directly proportional to concentration up to 100 μM and to time within 1 hr. Levels of reduced glutathione decreased following HgCl2 in parallel with the induction of DNA strand breakage. Evidence is presented that this rapid and pronounced induction of DNA strand breaks and other cytotoxic responses following acute exposure to HgCl2 resembles the cellular effects of X-rays.
Effect of pregnancy on gastrointestinal transit.

In order to evaluate the possible effects of pregnancy-associated sex steroids on gastrointestinal function, we determined gastrointestinal transit times and sex steroid levels in 15 women during the third trimester of their pregnancies and again 4–6 weeks following delivery when gastrointestinal function had symptomatically returned to normal. Gastrointestinal transit time from ingestion of a liquid lactulose meal to its delivery to the cecum was determined by monitoring breath hydrogen concentrations at 10-min intervals. Gastrointestinal transit times were significantly prolonged in the third trimester of pregnancy, when progesterone and estradiol levels were increased, compared to the postpartum period. This study supports previous findings which suggest that increasing levels of progesterone and estradiol affect gastrointestinal function and therefore may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms that often occur in pregnant women.
The Standard for Control of Chronic Beryllium Disease

Abstract It is now almost 50 years since 2 μg/m3 was established by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission for control of occupational chronic beryllium disease (CBD). This was one of three standards proposed at the time to also control the acute disease and CBD from pollution of community air. Although intended to be limited to its contractors, the standard for control of CBD was soon adopted by several regulatory agencies and has remained unchanged. For several decades it was believed by many that the standard was achieving its purpose, and some specialists even suggested that the standard was unnecessarily restrictive. However, with the introduction of new diagnostic techniques beginning in the 1980s, cases have been identified that would have formerly been missed, resulting in a resurgence of cases and casting doubt on the efficacy of the existing standard. The first such doubts were raised in Japan in the 1970s, but there were major gaps in the published information that made evaluation of the data diffic...
Oxydative enzymes in maturing hippocampus and cerebellum of hamsters.

La deidrogenasi dell'acido succinico (SDH) e la diaforasi diposforpiridin-nucleotide (DPN-D) hanno dimonstrato attivita intensa nei glomeruli delo strato granulare cerebellare, nella parte piu profonda dello strato molecolare e nelle lamine lacunosa e molecolare dell'ippocampo. Tutte queste zone sono caratterizzate da numerose connessioni sinaptiche. L'attivita degei enzimi ossidanti in queste zone aumenta rapidamente con la crescita degli animali.
Complex dark-field contrast and its retrieval in x-ray phase contrast imaging implemented with Talbot interferometry.

Purpose: Under the existing theoretical framework of x-ray phase contrast imaging methods implemented with Talbot interferometry, the dark-field contrast refers to the reduction in interference fringe visibility due to small-angle x-ray scattering of the subpixel microstructures of an object to be imaged. This study investigates how an object’s subpixel microstructures can also affect the phase of the intensity oscillations. Methods: Instead of assuming that the object’s subpixel microstructures distribute in space randomly, the authors’ theoretical derivation starts by assuming that an object’s attenuation projection and phase shift vary at a characteristic size that is not smaller than the period of analyzer grating G 2 and a characteristic length dc . Based on the paraxial Fresnel–Kirchhoff theory, the analytic formulae to characterize the zeroth- and first-order Fourier coefficients of the x-ray irradiance recorded at each detector cell are derived. Then the concept of complex dark-field contrast is introduced to quantify the influence of the object’s microstructures on both the interference fringe visibility and the phase of intensity oscillations. A method based on the phase-attenuation duality that holds for soft tissues and high x-ray energies is proposed to retrieve the imaginary part of the complex dark-field contrast for imaging. Through computer simulation study with a specially designed numerical phantom, they evaluate and validate the derived analytic formulae and the proposed retrieval method. Results: Both theoretical analysis and computer simulation study show that the effect of an object’s subpixel microstructures on x-ray phase contrast imaging method implemented with Talbot interferometry can be fully characterized by a complex dark-field contrast. The imaginary part of complex dark-field contrast quantifies the influence of the object’s subpixel microstructures on the phase of intensity oscillations. Furthermore, at relatively high energies, for soft tissues it can be retrieved for imaging with a method based on the phase-attenuation duality. Conclusions: The analytic formulae derived in this work to characterize the complex dark-field contrast in x-ray phase contrast imaging method implemented with Talbot interferometry are of significance, which may initiate more activities in the research and development of x-ray differential phase contrast imaging for extensive biomedical applications.
Islamism(s) and the Arab uprisings: between commanding the faithful and mobilising the protestor

This study attempts to situate Morocco within the recent Arab revolutions. The extant literature on Morocco's Islamism deems the 2003 Casablanca terrorist attacks a turning point in the Islamists’ relationships with the regime on the one hand, and the public's view of political Islam on the other. However, with the recent protest movements, the regime can no longer sustain its security approach to Islamism. Further, and unlike the 2003 attacks, which made all Islamists prime suspects, the 2011 Marrakesh bombings brought the regime under further scrutiny by the protest movement. In the midst of the changes sweeping the Arab world, both the monarchial government and Islamists are facing a set of unknown parameters. It remains unclear whether the recent widening of dissent (to include liberals, women and minorities) would strengthen Islamism's presence in the Moroccan political scene. In order to call into question the trend deeming Islamism a recent phenomenon, this study aims to historicise Islamism in Mor...
Some Fallacies in the Interpretation of Social Cost

Arguments for social interference developed by Pigou and Graham illustrate common misinterpretations of the meaning of cost and its variation with output, 582. — I. The private owner of a natural opportunity secures maximum return from it by charging that rent which halts the application of investment at the point which is socially most advantageous, 584. — II. The notion of decreasing cost is a fallacy; competitive price fixation under decreasing cost or increasing returns an impossible situation, 592. — III. The law of comparative advantage in international trade is fundamentally sound, 599. — Importation a method of using resources to produce the imported good, and will be employed under competitive conditions only when more efficient than a direct method, 603. — The competitive system has important defects, but they lie outside the mechanical theory of exchange relations, 605.
Ultrafast microscopy of solids irradiated by giant picosecond pulses

Ultrafast processes which are spatially inhomogeneous are best studied by optical techniques which provide simultaneous temporal and spatial resolution. The ultrafast microscope developed in our lab provides picosecond time resolved images with micrometer scale spatial resolution. The principles of ultrafast microscopy, the apparatus itself, and the applications of this apparatus to several important processes, including polymer ablation and dynamic laser beam distortion, are described herein.
Age of Smoking Milestones: Longitudinal Inconsistencies and Recanting

Abstract Purpose To determine (1) how reports of the ages of first cigarette smoked and daily smoking onset change from adolescence through emerging adulthood and into young adulthood and (2) what predicts reporting inconsistencies and recanting for both smoking milestones. Methods Multinomial logistic regression models compared relative risks of the following: (1) consistent reporting of milestone age (reference group); (2) recanting at either subsequent wave; or (3) inconsistent reporting of age in at least one subsequent wave, using data from Waves I, III, and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health . Results Instability and forward telescoping between adolescence and emerging adulthood leveled off by young adulthood. For smoking first cigarette, those who started younger had more inconsistencies and recanting than those who started later, as did African-American, Latino, and Asian respondents compared with non-Latino white respondents. Native American respondents also had higher relative risks of recanting, as did those with low parental education. Males were more inconsistent than females. Depression, same-sex attractions or relationships, and family structure were not associated with reporting stability. Binge drinking, marijuana, and other illegal drugs were associated with lower levels of recanting. For age of daily smoking, starting older versus younger, sex, race, ethnicity, and use of marijuana were significant predictors of report stability. Conclusions Stage of life may influence forward telescoping in smoking self-reports. Stability of reports of adolescent smoking by emerging and young adults in the United States appears biased by age of onset, sex, race, and other substance use.
Mass spectrometry of triglycerides: II. Specifically deuterated triglycerides and elucidation of fragmentation mechanisms

Deuterium labeled monoacid triglycerides were synthesized and their mass spectra were measured. The spectra provided further support for proposed (1) structures of principal ions, knowledge about the formation of [M-18]+, the interexchange of hydrogen atoms between 2 and the 5,6 or 7 positions and the explusion of part of the alkyl chain.
Immune response to controlled release of immunomodulating peptides in a murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model

The effects of controlled release on immune response to an immunomodulating peptide were evaluated in a murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis (MS). The peptide, Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 (Ac-HSLGKWLGHPDKF-(AcpGAcpGAcp)(2)-ITDGEATDSG-NH(2); Ac = acetyl, Acp = epsilon aminocaproic acid) was designed to suppress T-cell activation in response to PLP(139-151), an antigenic peptide in MS. Poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microparticles containing Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 (8+/-4 microm, 1.4+/-0.2% (w/w)) were prepared by a powder-in oil-in water emulsion-solvent evaporation method, sterilized and administered subcutaneously (s.c.) to SJL/J (H-2(s)) mice in which EAE had been induced by immunization with PLP(139-151). Treatment groups received Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2: (i) in solution by repeated i.v. or s.c. injection, (ii) in solution co-administered with blank PLGA microparticles, (iii) in solution co-administered with Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 loaded microparticles, and (iv) as Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 loaded microparticles. Administration of Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 as an s.c. solution produced clinical scores and maintenance of body weight comparable to i.v. solution, but with reduced overall survival, presumably due to anaphylaxis. Administration as s.c. microparticles provided a somewhat less effective reduction in symptoms but with no toxicity during treatment. Thus, the results suggest that s.c. administration of Ac-PLP-BPI-NH(2)-2 microparticles can provide pharmacological efficacy and reduction in dosing frequency without increased toxicity.
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Tumors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors or GISTs belong to a category of gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors that can have benign or malignant potential. These tumors were formerly identified as gastrointestinal (GI) leiomyomas, leiomyoblastomas, or leiomyosarcomas. GISTs account for approximately 80% of GI mesenchymal tumors and 3% of all childhood tumors. Pediatric GISTs occur in patients younger than 18 years and are extremely rare. In the United States, pediatric GISTs have been reported in the literature less than 100 times. In addition, much research has failed to distinguish between benign and malignant mesenchymal tumors. This makes it extremely difficult for medical professionals to develop any type of expertise because few see more than one or two of these cases in a career, and of those cases, many never differentiate between the two. This case study involves a young patient who had been diagnosed with pediatric GIST. This report details the initial sonographic findings and the follow-up studies that h...
Use of a 15 k gene microarray to determine gene expression changes in response to acute and chronic methylmercury exposure in the fathead minnow Pimephales promelas Rafinesque

This study describes the use of a 15 000 gene microarray developed for the toxicological model species, Pimephales promelas, in investigating the impact of acute and chronic methylmercury exposures in male gonad and liver tissues. The results show significant differences in the individual genes that were differentially expressed in response to each treatment. In liver, a total of 650 genes exhibited significantly (P < 0·05) altered expression with greater than two-fold differences from the controls in response to acute exposure and a total of 267 genes were differentially expressed in response to chronic exposure. A majority of these genes were downregulated rather than upregulated. Fewer genes were altered in gonad than in liver at both timepoints. A total of 212 genes were differentially expressed in response to acute exposure and 155 genes were altered in response to chronic exposure. Despite the differences in individual genes expressed across treatments, the functional categories that altered genes were associated with showed some similarities. Of interest in light of other studies involving the effects of methylmercury on fish, several genes associated with apoptosis were upregulated in response to both acute and chronic exposures. Induction of apoptosis has been associated with effects on reproduction seen in the previous studies. This study demonstrates the utility of microarray analysis for investigations of the physiological effects of toxicants as well as the time-course of effects that may take place. In addition, it is the first publication to demonstrate the use of this new 15 000 gene microarray for fish biology and toxicology.
Safety of minimally invasive pituitary surgery (MIPS) compared with a traditional approach.

Introduction: Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is becoming progressively less invasive. Recent endoscopic techniques avoid nasal or intraoral incisions, use of nasal speculums, and nasal packing. Several case series of endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery have been reported, but relatively little data exists comparing complication rates to more traditional approaches. We compare the complications of our first 50 cases of endoscopic, minimally invasive pituitary surgery (MIPS) to our last 50 sublabial transseptal (SLTS) procedures. Study Design: Retrospective case control study. Methods: Fifty consecutive MIPS procedures and 50 consecutive SLTS procedures were reviewed retrospectively. Complication rates were analyzed and compared. Results: Total complications per patient (P = .005), postoperative epistaxis (P = .031), lip anesthesia (P = .013), and deviated septum (P = .028) occurred more often in the SLTS group. No significant difference was seen in cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis, ophthalmoplegia, visual acuity loss, diabetes insipidus, intracranial hemorrhage, or death. In the MIPS group, length of stay (P < .001), use of lumbar drainage (P = .007), and nasal packing (P < .001) were also significantly reduced. Conclusions: Endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery provides improved complication rates when compared with SLTS approaches. In addition, we note advantages of the MIPS approach, including reduced length of hospital stay and decreased use of lumbar drainage and nasal packing.
Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor, but not Alpha-1 Protease Inhibitor, Blocks Tryptase-induced Bronchoconstriction☆

Alpha-1-protease inhibitor (α1-PI) and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) are two natural airway serine protease inhibitors. While inhibition of neutrophil elastase is a function common to both α1-PI and SLPI, we showed previously that they exhibit different patterns of protection against antigen-induced changes in airway function in allergic sheep. Specifically, the protective effect seen with SLPI was similar to the profile of action of synthetic tryptase inhibitors in the model. Based on these data, and the fact that tryptase is a serine protease, we hypothesized that SLPI, but not α1-PI, would block tryptase-induced bronchoconstriction. To test this, we compared the responses to inhaled tryptase in five sheep without treatment or after treatment with either aerosol α1-PI (10 mg) or aerosol SLPI (50 mg). The doses of α1-PI and SLPI selected had been shown to be effective in previous antigen-provocation studies. Treatments were given 30 min before aerosol challenge with tryptase (500 ng). Tryptase alone increased (mean±SEM) pulmonary resistance (RL) 142 ± 24% over baseline. Pretreatment with α1-PI had no effect on the tryptase response (RLincreased 122 ± 20%). Pretreatment with SLPI, however, blocked the tryptase-induced response (RLincreased only 40 ± 4%P<0.05 vs. tryptase). These are the first studies comparing the inhibitory activity of SLPI and α1-PI on inhaled tryptase-induced bronchoconstriction. We conclude that, in vivo, SLPI, but not α1-PI, can block tryptase-induced bronchoconstriction and that this activity may explain the differential effects of these two serine protease inhibitors on antigen-induced airway responses in allergic sheep.
A model for λ‡-θ‡ production

A calculation of the perturbation theoretic angular distributions in the reaction Ν-+p → λ‡+θ‡ is reported. Some general implications of the model Ν-+p → single particle λ‡+θ‡ are described. The second order results for the productions distributions are of the formA+B cosθ for all choices of spin, coupling, etc. The exact center of mass distribution is identical in form to that above but is determined only to within an unknown parameter ζ. The nature of the distributions preclude the possibility of verification of the model on the basis of present data. The decay angular distributions of the spin 1/2 λ‡ are isotropic for all values for the θ‡ spin. Possibilities for future comparison with experiment are discussed.
Security for the GPLAN system

Abstract This paper proposes a security system for the GPLAN planning system. The GPLAN system includes a data management system, a collection of application programs which process the data, and a query language which can request both data and programs. The security system handles both data dependent and data independent security as well as “threat monitoring”. The tables which define the security constraints are stored in the data base to provide maximum flexibility for modification in the future.
Heartmate II Inflow Cannula Position on Chest X-Ray Predicts Inotrope Dependence

Purpose We hypothesized that LVAD inflow cannula malposition contributes to numerous negative outcomes after device implantation. We further hypothesized that inflow cannula malposition may be determined by early post-operative CXR. Methods and Materials We reviewed CXR from 79 consecutive Heartmate II implantations (bridge to transplant or destination therapy). We measured LVAD inflow cannula position relative to the sternum on 1st upright PA and Lateral chest x-ray. [ figure 1 ] We evaluated the following explanatory variables: age, LV diameter, redo sternotomy, BMI, cannula angle relative to sternum on PA CXR, cannula angle relative to sternum on Lateral CXR. We used multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the following implantation complications: TIA, stroke, post-implantation inotrope dependence, hemolysis, thrombosis, new ventricular tachycardia, and death. Results Cannula angle on PA CXR is associated with inotrope dependence (OR 1.12, p=0.001). All patients (n=16) with cannula angles outside of the range of 4° to 54° on PA CXR or -45° to 59° on lateral CXR experienced at least one of the studied complications. Additionally, increased BMI is associated with inotrope dependence (OR 1.14, p=0.045) and death (OR 1.13, p=0.049). Redo sternotomy is associated with new onset ventricular tachycardia (OR 5.97, p=0.03). LV diameter is associated with hemolysis (OR 0.27, p=0.043). Conclusions All patients with extreme inflow cannula angles experienced at least one major complication. Across all ranges, inflow cannula angulation on PA CXR predicted inotrope dependence. Secondary variables including BMI, redo sternotomy, and small LV were associated with major complications. Technical aspects of LVAD implantation remain paramount in assuring optimum outcomes.
Human purine nucleoside phosphorylase cDNA sequence and genomic clone characterization

Abstract The isolation of a cDNA clone containing the complete coding region for human purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) has been described previously. In this report we present the nucleotide sequence of this cDNA clone and compare the derived amino acid sequence, encoding a protein of 32 kilodaltons, with the published amino acid composition. Using a fragment of the cDNA clone as a probe, human PNP genomic clones from a bacteriophage lambda library have been isolated and the structural organization of the wild type PNP gene determined.
Integrating a Flexible Representation Machinery in a Model of Human Concept Learning

High-order human cognition involves processing of abstract and categorically represented knowledge. Traditionally, it has been considered that there is a single innate internal representation system for categorical knowledge. However, on the basis of the previous empirical and simulation studies, we view the representational system as a dynamic mechanism, capable of selecting a representation scheme that meets situational characteristics, including complexities of category structure. The present paper introduces a framework for a cognitive model that integrates robust and flexible internal representation machinery. A set of three simulation studies were conducted. The results showed that SUPERSET, our new model, successfully exhibited cognitive behaviors that are consistent with rule-(Simulation 1A), prototype-(Simulation IB), and exemplar-like (Simulation 1C) internal representation schemes.
Truck sizing models for recyclables pick-up

Growing public concerns about the environmental consequences of waste disposal have led to an increase in recycling efforts. In many communities, curbside collection programs have been instituted for collecting recyclables from households for transfer to material recovery facilities. In most programs the cost of collection is the dominant cost. Despite the high cost and environmental importance of collecting recyclables from households, most municipal collection systems are designed and operated without a clear understanding of what factors drive those costs and how they might be reduced. In this paper, models for determining truck configurations, as well as optimal compartment sizes for recyclables collection are developed. Constraints arising from the operation of the trucks are formulated, and solution schemes are presented. In addition, a procedure for optimally partitioning a vehicle used to collect source-separated material is discussed. Several scenario based planning approaches are developed. Use of the truck sizing models as an industry decision tool and the associated benefits of applying the truck sizing models and the solution methodology to a contract based collection program are also discussed.
Control of aggressive behavior by an imprinted stimulus

Ducklings raised in isolation but imprinted to a moving stimulus were paired with ducklings that had been previously exposed to other ducklings but had not seen the imprinting stimulus before. The imprinted ducklings attacked the socialized birds when the imprinting stimulus was present, but not in its absence.
Collaborative care interventions: a solution to the treatment of depression in the oncology setting.

ABSTRACT FROM: Sharpe M, Walker J, Holm Hansen C, et al ., SMaRT (Symptom Management Research Trials) Oncology-2 Team. Integrated collaborative care for comorbid major depression in patients with cancer (SMaRT Oncology-2): a multicentre randomised controlled effectiveness trial. Lancet 2014;384:1099–108. Several meta-analytic studies have now concluded that collaborative care interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of depression in the primary care setting.1 These interventions have been shown to be more cost-effective than face-to-face cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and pharmacological treatment.2 Collaborative care interventions are now beginning to be tested in patients with depression comorbid with chronic illnesses, including cancer.3 The study was an RCT comparing the effectiveness of a collaborative care intervention with usual care (1:1 ratio) in 500 patients diagnosed with major depression from cancer clinics in Scotland, UK. The intervention was a manualised, multicomponent collaborative treatment delivered by oncology …
A Camera-Based Music-Making Tool for Physical Rehabilitation

The universality of music among human cultures as well as our common experience of naturally responding to music with motion, seem to be widely recognized (Tramo 2001). Recent brain-imaging studies (Lahav et al. 2005; Lahav, Saltzman, and Schlaug 2007) show that humans, given appropriate auditory inputs, seem to be " tuned" to produce corresponding motor outputs. This unique auditorymotor interplay provides the conceptual basis for the use of music therapy, in particular, active music therapy, where a patient is physically involved in producing music rather than simply reacting to or accompanying music (Pacchetti et al. 2000; Paul and Ramsey 2000; Lahav 2005). Music therapy has benefited people with physical disabilities, mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, autism, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, and acute and chronic pain (Pacchetti et al. 2000; Harris and Summa-Chadwick 2005; see also the American Music Therapy Association's Web site, www.musictherapy.org). Playing an instrument, such as piano, guitar, or drums, may be very difficult or even inf easible for patients with motor dysfunctions. As an alternative, easy-to-use tool for active music therapy, we designed Music M ker, a human-computer interface that converts body movements into musical and visual feedback in real time using the open software platform EyesWeb (Camurri et al. 2004). Music Maker is a non-obtrusive camera-based tool that allows physically impaired patients to naturally create music with no prior musical training. Patients simply move their hand or foot in space or on a surface, and Music Maker detects and interprets these movements. Detection is accomplished without any sensors or markers that must be attached to the patients' bodies. Music Maker relies only on the video input from a camera to observe patient motion and on computervision techniques to analyze the motion. Music Maker is an adaptive interface that can be adjusted to provide auditory and visual feedback based on the patient's needs and interests. Auditory feedback could range from a single piano note to a recording of the patient's favorite piece of music. Visual feedback is provided by a graphical display on a computer monitor or wall-mounted screen. Music Maker uses "fun" displays, for example, cartoon drawings or pictures of musical instruments. Its hardware setup can be adjusted according to patients' levels of impairment, their particular therapeutic goals, and the equipment available in hospitals or patients' homes. (See Figure 1 for sample setups.) Computer Music Journal, 31:2, pp. 39-53, Summer 2007 © 2007 Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Stimulus specific activity patterns in the granule cell networks of mice

It has been speculated that the olfactory bulb encodes information in the form of stimulus specific activity patterns. One of the key features of this population activity is the emergence of odor-specific spatial patterns of mitral cell spiking over a time course of 200–800 ms following stimulus (-odor) onset. We are interested in understanding the mechanisms involved in establishing and maintaining these spatial patterns. Here, we investigated the temporal response characteristics of granule cell activity by imaging activity in populations of olfactory bulb cells following bulk loading of calcium dye in olfactory bulb slices. We found that granule cells show varied (ranging from 0–900 ms) but reliable activation latencies (std. dev. = 50 ms). Moreover, we found that these activity patterns played a significant role in the generation and the maintenance of reliable spike patterns in mitral cells. Experiments in which multiple glomeruli were stimulated showed that the latency of granule cell activity is input specific and that individual granule cells respond most reliably to specific temporal patterns of stimulation. These data suggest that glomerular (~stimulus) identity is encoded in the form of latencies of granule cells activity, which in turn results in distinct stimulus specific changes in the pattern of mitral cell activity.
Treatment of chronic hepatitis C with consensus interferon: A multicenter, randomized, controlled trial

This multicenter, randomized, controlled, double-blind, phase III study in 704 patients with chronic hepatitis C infection compared treatment with consensus interferon (CIFN), a non-natural recombinant type-1 interferon, with a standard regimen of recombinant interferon alfa-2b (IFN-alpha2b). Patients were randomized to receive CIFN at doses of 3 microg or 9 microg, or 15 microg IFN-alpha2b (3 million units), subcutaneously three times weekly for 24 weeks, followed by 24 weeks of observation. Efficacy was assessed by normalization of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) concentration and decrease in serum hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA concentration below the limit of detection by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) (100 copies/mL). The beneficial effect of CIFN was greater with the 9-microg dose than the 3-microg dose. The sustained ALT and HCV RNA response rates were 20.3% and 12.1%, respectively, in the 9-microg CIFN cohort and 19.6% and 11.3%, respectively, in the 15-microg IFN-alpha2b cohort. However, patients receiving 9 microg of CIFN had a greater reduction in serum HCV RNA concentrations compared with patients receiving 15 microg IFN-alpha2b over the course of treatment (P < .01). Similarly, analysis of patients infected with HCV genotype 1 showed a greater reduction in serum HCV RNA concentration over the course of treatment for the 9-microg CIFN group when compared with the 15-microg IFN-alpha2b group (P < .01). In addition, a greater percentage of patients infected with HCV genotype 1 treated with 9 microg CIFN had undetectable HCV RNA concentrations when compared with patients in the 15-microg IFN-alpha2b cohort at the end of treatment (24% vs. 15%; P = .04). Improvements in liver histology were noted in all three treatment groups; 52% to 55% of the patients in the three cohorts had at least a 2-unit improvement in the Knodell score at the end of the posttreatment period. The adverse-events profiles were characteristic of treatment with type-1 interferon, and the incidences of anti-interferon antibody formation did not significantly differ among the three treatment groups. These results show that administration of 9 microg CIFN three times weekly for 6 months is safe and is effective in reducing serum HCV RNA concentration.
Estimation of the screening error rate from the observed detection rates in repeated cervical cytology

Abstract A curious stepping-down in case rates was noticed in some studies where repeated screening was used to detect dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, and invasive cancer. The third and fourth observed apparent incidence rates were successively smaller than the initial observed incidence rate which is, of course, the second screening rate. Since the false-negative error rate in cervical screening is known to be high, it was suspected that this error, as it was expressed in successive screenings, was causing the step-down effect. A model designed to test this hypothesis gave results that fully explained the data. Error rates were calculated by least-squares fit of the model to the observed data, and false-negative error rates of 40 per cent for dysplasia, 20, 27 and 45 per cent for CIS, and 24 per cent for IC were found. The consequences of error rates of this magnitude are discussed.
Rhizosphere priming effects on the decomposition of soil organic matter in C4 and C3 grassland soils

Using a natural abundance 13 C method, soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition was studied in a C3 plant – ‘C4 soil’ (C3 plant grown in a soil obtained from a grassland dominated by C4 grasses) system and a C4 plant – ‘C3 soil’ (C4 plant grown in a soil taken from a pasture dominated by C3 grasses) system. In C3 plant – ‘C4 soil’ system, cumulative soil-derived CO2–C were higher in the soils planted with soybean (5499 mg pot −1 ) and sunflower (4484 mg pot −1 ) than that in ‘C4 soil’ control (3237 mg pot −1 ) without plants. In other words, the decomposition of SOM in soils planted with soybean and sunflower were 69.9% and 38.5% faster than ‘C4 soil’ control. In C4 plant – ‘C3 soil’ system, there was an overall negative priming effect of live roots on the decomposition of SOM. The cumulative soil-derived CO2–C were lower in the soils planted with sorghum (2308 mg pot −1 )a nd amaranthus (2413 mg pot −1 ) than that in ‘C3 soil’ control (2541 mg pot −1 ). The decomposition of SOM in soils planted with sorghum and amaranthus were 9.2% and 5.1% slower than ‘C3 soil’ control. Our results also showed that rhizosphere priming effects on SOM decomposition were positive at all developmental stages in C3 plant – ‘C4 soil’ system, but the direction of the rhizosphere priming effect changed at different developmental stages in the C4 plant – ‘C3 soil’ system. Implications of rhizosphere priming effects on SOM decomposition were discussed.
Barriers to Independence Among TANF Recipients: Comparing Caseworker Records and Client Surveys

ABSTRACT Survey-based studies reveal the prevalence of employment barriers among Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) recipients. However, the extent to which welfare caseworkers are aware of, and therefore able to address, particular barriers is unknown. This study compares survey data with electronic case records to measure the rate of agreement in barrier identification, and finds that although agreement rates are high, barriers were more likely to have been documented by caseworkers for certain subgroups of recipients. It is suggested that welfare agencies consider using validated scales and measures to assess some barriers in order to increase the likelihood of identifying and removing barriers to work for more recipients, particularly in light of new, more stringent work participation requirements.
Symbolic Interdependence, Imagined Interaction, and Relationship Quality

Symbolic interdependence is a process that is the outcome of emerging values, beliefs, and meanings between two individuals when developing an intimate relationship. Symbolic interdependence is cor...
TUMOR DESTRUCTION IN PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY

The effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the tumor microvasculature in the first few hours after treatment was studied at the light microscope (LM) and electron microscope (EM) levels in DBA/2Ha mice bearing SMT-F tumors. Animals received intraperitoneal injections of 10 mg kg− of Photofrin II and 24 h later tumors were treated with 100 J cm−2 of light (630 nm). Animals were sacrificed and their tumors removed at time 0, 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 24 h after treatment. The results indicate that the effects of PDT are initially direct destruction of the microfibrils in the subendothelial zone of the tumor capillaries with subsequent tumor cell death secondary to hemorrhage and vascular collapse.
The NBC opera theater

One of the most outstanding examples of support for worth‐while cultural events by a commercial broadcasting network is the NBC Opera Theater, which was supported largely by NBC for fifteen years. Many people can take opera or leave it alone, and many others set out to avoid it. On the other hand, those who love opera love it with a passion rarely seen in non‐teenagers. However, it was not only for the fans that the NBC Opera Theater was founded, for there is little doubt that there were more opera lovers in the nation in the middle 1960's than there were in the late 1940's—and much of the credit for such an increase must go to this one institution.
Thermal expansion and high-temperature phase transformation of the yttrium silicate Y 2 SiO 5

The linear thermal-expansion coefficients of yttrium silicate Y2SiO5, [Y2(SiO4)O] were measured in the temperature range from 20 to 1400 °C using x-ray diffraction. The anomalous behavior of thermal expansion was observed above Tc = 850 °C and was attributed to the displacive phase transformation. The transformation was reversible and resulted from the local order °C the compositional disorder and local fluctuation in the elastic free energy constrained a secondary transformation related to the polymorphic twin transformation. This created an additional peak in x-ray diffraction patterns at 2’s intensity. The characteristic of phase transformation both on heating and on cooling of the sample was also investigated using the differential thermal analysis method. The thermogravimetric technique did not indicate on a change of weight at Tc.
The Preparation and Characterization of Some Phosphinoacetic Acids, Salts, and Esters

Abstract A general method is outlined for the preparation of compounds containing the -P(CH2COOY)n grouping, where Y = alkyl group, H, or Na and n = 1–3. This method is based on the methathesis reaction between esters of trialkylstannylacetic acids and phosphorus compounds containing a P[sbnd]Cl bond. In particular, this paper reports the synthesis of the compounds (C6H5)3-n P(CH2COOY)n where n = 1–3. These compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, melting and/or boiling points, and infrared and proton and phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance spectral data. Protonation constants for (C6H5)2 PCH2COOH and C6H5P(CH2COOH)2 were determined in ethanol-water and water, respectively. Synthesis and characterization of (C6H5)3-n P(O) (CH2COOCH)2 are reported also.
Asymmetric spermatocyte division as a mechanism for controlling sex ratios

Although Mendel's first law predicts that crosses between XY (or XO) males and XX females should yield equal numbers of males and females, individuals in a wide variety of metazoans transmit their sex chromosomes unequally and produce broods with highly skewed sex ratios. Here, we report two modifications to the cellular programme of spermatogenesis, which, in combination, help to explain why males of the free-living nematode species Rhabditis sp. SB347 sire <5% male progeny. First, the spermatogenesis programme involves a modified meiosis in which chromatids of the unpaired X chromosome separate prematurely, in meiosis I. Second, during anaphase II, cellular components essential for sperm motility are partitioned almost exclusively to the X-bearing sperm. Our studies reveal a novel cellular mechanism for the differential transmission of X-bearing sperm and suggest Rhabditis sp. SB347 as a useful model for studying sex chromosome drive and the evolution of new mating systems.
Structure and luminescence properties of a well-known macrometallocyclic trinuclear Au(I) complex and its adduct with a perfluorinated fluorophore showing cooperative anisotropic supramolecular interactions

The structure and luminescence properties of a well-known trinuclear Au(I) imidazolate complex are determined for the first time along with its interaction with the organic π acid perfluoronaphthalene in the solid state and solution.
Cystic Lung Disease in Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome

Background To describe the clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic aspects of cystic lung disease occurring in patients with Birt-Hogg-Dube (BHD) syndrome, a rare, inheritable, multisystem disorder. Methods We retrospectively reviewed five patients with BHD syndrome evaluated at the Mayo Clinic Rochester from 1998 through 2005. Results Mean age (± SD) at the time of pulmonary evaluation was 56.4 ± 4.8 years; four patients were men. Three patients had not received a diagnosis of BHD syndrome at the time of initial CT of the chest. Three patients had a smoking history, and two were nonsmokers. Two patients had a history of recurrent pneumothoraces. Pulmonary function tests available in four patients revealed normal results in one patient and mild airflow obstruction or nonspecific pattern of abnormalities in three patients. CT of the chest revealed cystic lung disease in all five patients; cysts were round to oval in shape, ranged widely in size, and were randomly distributed throughout the lungs, except for a predilection to involve the lung bases more extensively. Three patients with a smoking history had more severe cystic changes compared to nonsmokers and included both patients with recurrent pneumothoraces. Surgical lung biopsy available in one patient revealed emphysema-like changes. Follow-up CT scans available in four patients revealed relative stability over a median interval of 20 months (range, 3 to 66 months). Conclusion We conclude that cystic lung disease in BHD syndrome varies widely in severity, mimics pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and may be worsened by smoking.
Parental Response to Child Illness Behavior

Examined the effects of child age and gender, parent gender, and type of child illness on parents' responses to their children's illness behavior. Study 1 describes the development of the Illness Behavior Encouragement Scale, based on Whitehead et al.'s Social Learning Scales for adults, and provides evidence supporting symptom specificity in children's learning of illness behavior. Results of Study 2 indicate that mothers encourage children's illness behavior more than fathers, that parents encourage children to adopt the sick role for gastrointestinal symptoms more than for cold symptoms, and that girls perceive parents as encouraging their illness behavior more than boys, that is, girls report receiving more sympathy and being allowed more relief from responsibility during illness episodes than boys.
Gene expression arrays and the therapist's dilemma

Comment on Lacayo et al, page [2646][1] In this issue, Lacayo and colleagues describe a successful approach to identify clinically useful gene expression signatures for high-risk cancer patients, using acute myeloid leukemias with mutated FLT3 tyrosine receptor genes as a model. A s we move
Scheduling for shared window joins over data streams

Continuous Query (CQ) systems typically exploit commonality among query expressions to achieve improved efficiency through shared processing. Recently proposed CQ systems have introduced window specifications in order to support unbounded data streams. There has been, however, little investigation of sharing for windowed query operators. In this paper, we address the shared execution of windowed joins, a core operator for CQ systems. We show that the strategy used in systems to date has a previously unreported performance flaw that can negatively impact queries with relatively small windows. We then propose two new execution strategies for shared joins. We evaluate the alternatives using both analytical models and implementation in a DBMS. The results show that one strategy, called MQT, provides the best performance over a range of workload settings.
Plant community, primary productivity, and environmental conditions following wetland re-establishment in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, California

Wetland restoration can mitigate aerobic decomposition of subsided organic soils, as well as re-establish conditions favorable for carbon storage. Rates of carbon storage result from the balance of inputs and losses, both of which are affected by wetland hydrology. We followed the effect of water depth (25 and 55 cm) on the plant community, primary production, and changes in two re-established wetlands in the Sacramento San-Joaquin River Delta, California for 9 years after flooding to determine how relatively small differences in water depth affect carbon storage rates over time. To estimate annual carbon inputs, plant species cover, standing above- and below-ground plant biomass, and annual biomass turnover rates were measured, and allometric biomass models for Schoenoplectus (Scirpus) acutus and Typha spp., the emergent marsh dominants, were developed. As the wetlands developed, environmental factors, including water temperature, depth, and pH were measured. Emergent marsh vegetation colonized the shallow wetland more rapidly than the deeper wetland. This is important to potential carbon storage because emergent marsh vegetation is more productive, and less labile, than submerged and floating vegetation. Primary production of emergent marsh vegetation ranged from 1.3 to 3.2 kg of carbon per square meter annually; and, mid-season standing live biomass represented about half of the annual primary production. Changes in species composition occurred in both submerged and emergent plant communities as the wetlands matured. Water depth, temperature, and pH were lower in areas with emergent marsh vegetation compared to submerged vegetation, all of which, in turn, can affect carbon cycling and storage rates.