cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical and pathologic characteristics of dilated cardiomyopathy in hemodialysis patients

Clinical and pathologic characteristics of dilated cardiomyopathy in hemodialysis patients. Background Some dialysis patients have impaired left ventricular (LV) function without coronary artery disease. The pathologic changes and prognoses of these patients have not been well described. Methods We performed LV endomyocardial biopsies on 40 hemodialysis patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM; an ejection fraction 90mL/m 2 without coronary artery disease), and on 50 nondialysis patients with idiopathic DCM as the control group. Following LV biopsies, the patients were followed-up for a mean of 3.1 ± 2.3 years. Results The pathologic characteristics of the dialysis group were severe myocyte hypertrophy (the mean myocyte diameter across the nucleus: 37.6 ± 10.5 μm vs. 25.6 ± 7.7 μm, P = 0.001), myocyte disarray (30%), and extensive fibrosis (the mean percent area of left ventricular fibrosis: 22.3 ± 18.4% vs. 21.3 ± 14.6%, P = NS). These pathologic characteristics resembled the dilated phase of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In the dialysis group, a high percent area of LV fibrosis was the only significant predictor of cardiac death by multivariate analysis ( P = 0.02). The 3-year cumulative event-free survival rate for cardiac death in dialysis patients with severe fibrosis (more than 30%) was 42%, while that for patients without severe fibrosis was 82% ( P = 0.03). Conclusion The pathologic characteristics of the heart in dialysis patients with DCM are interstitial fibrosis and severe myocyte hypertrophy with occasional disarray. The extent of LV fibrosis is a strong predictor of cardiac death. Careful follow-up and treatment are necessary for dialysis patients with a high percent area of LV fibrosis.
The effectiveness of three behavioral treatments for different degrees of sleep onset insomnia

This study compared the effectiveness of progressive relaxation, stimulus control, paradoxical intention, and a placebo control treatment for different degrees of sleep onset insomnia (mild, moderate, and severe). Results demonstrated that stimulus control was the most effective intervention regardless of severity level. Individuals with severe insomnia showed at least as much improvement as those with either mild or moderate insomnia, regardless of type of treatment.
Relationship between the generative cell and vegetative nucleus in pollen tubes of Nicotiana tabacum

Fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize microtubules (Mts) and chromatin in an effort to further clarify the relationship between the generative cell (GC) and vegetative nucleus (VN) in pollen tubes of tobacco. Prominent Mt bundles are present in one or more GC extensions that can be finger-like or lamellar in form. While the VN is positioned distal to the GC in most cases, it can also straddle the cell or lie proximal to it. In all cases, however, extensions embrace, penetrate or clasp the VN. GC Mts are reorganized during the formation of the mitotic apparatus, and cell extensions are fully or partially withdrawn. By telophase in many pollen tubes, the VN shifts to a more proximal position and appears to adhere to the region of the GC containing the phragmoplast. Application of oryzalin leads to the disorganization of Mts, changes in cell shape, including the loss or alteration of cell extensions, and separation of the GC and VN in some cases. However, the position and polarity of the VN is maintained in most pollen tubes. The results indicate that GC Mts and cell extensions play a role in the association with the VN. However, the relationship appears to be controlled by other factors as well. Attention should now be directed at potential interactions involving the VN envelope, vegetative plasma membrane, GC plasma membrane and extracellular matrix.
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP OF SEX AND SEX ROLE TO THE ABILITY TO DECODE NONVERBAL CUES

This paper reports an investigation of the ability to decode nonverbal cues. Past studies of decoding have often tested for differences in ability between males and females. Results do not consistently favor the ability of one sex over the other, but, when differences do appear, they indicate greater sensitivity for females. Researchers in the area of sex differences in human communication emphasize that variability may be related to sex roles. With regard to nonverbal sensitivity, researchers have suggested that femininity may be associated with better nonverbal decoding because of practice gained in traditionally feminine occupations. It has also been reasoned that certain traits, such as submissiveness and expressiveness, are linked to both femininity and nonverbal sensitivity. The present study investigates the relationship of sex, sex role, and nonverbal sensitivity. Whereas female sex was found to be positively associated with nonverbal ability, femininity was negatively related. Several interpretations of this surprising result are offered.
Socioeconomic and cultural factors influencing nutritional status of children in three sudanese villages

Introduction. The drought and famine in Africa have received much publicity and attention, but the underlying causes of malnutrition also need to be ex­ amined. Sudan is the largest country in Africa, situ­ ated south of Egypt with the Red Sea and Ethiopia to the east; Kenya, Uganda, and Zaire on its southern border; and the Central African Republic, the Repub­ lic of Chad, and Libya to the west. The Nile River, which passes through the entire length of Sudan, is the principal means of transportation and livelihood of the people. Sudan is a land of contrast and diversity due to 'its great number of tribal groups, languages, customs, religions, climate, and terrain. Factors influencing the nutritional status of chil­ dren in Sudan include customs and culture, income level of the family, location ofthe village, knowledge of the family member making food purchases, and the environmental conditions. It is extremely important that nutrition educators examine these factors before planning a program. Thus our objectives were to de­ termine social, economic, and cultural factors that af­ fected food consumption patterns; to determine which foods families consumed most frequently; to deter­ mine the methods of food preparation and storage; and to document the extent of malnutrition. We also wanted to draw some conclusions about the relation­ ships among some of these factors. Villages. To achieve our objectives we surveyed three villages in the semi-arid central region of Sudan where whole-grain sorghum is a staple in the diet of the people. UmSagata, an Eritrean refugee village with a population of 25,000, is located 412 km south­ east of Khartoum near the Sudan-Ethiopian border. The terrain is grassland with huge hills throughout the area. Nuba village, situated 45 km directly south of Khartoum on the White Nile River, has a population of 600. In spite of the desert climate, fruit trees and crops grow in this area because the village is near a good source of water. Nuba is near Khartoum and many people work and purchase their food there. Thus the residents of Nuba have access to a larger amount and a greater variety of food than do residents of the other two villages. Oliab village has 500 inhabitants and is
Market Meltdown: Recruiting Qualified Business Faculty

University business programs have been facing a growing dilemma concerning how to address increasing shortages of doctoral-level faculty. In this study, the authors examine the challenges facing business schools because of the identified shortage, especially in light of pending baby boomer retirements. With the California State University system and its 23 campuses as a case study, the authors used recruitment statistics to illustrate the continuing shortfall in new hire success. The authors identified recruitment challenges and offered recommendations to improve the recruitment of qualified faculty.
Proton therapy for skull base chordomas: an outcome study from the university of Florida proton therapy institute.

Objectives Skull base chordoma is a rare, locally aggressive tumor located adjacent to critical structures. Gross total resection is difficult to achieve, and proton therapy has the conformal advantage of delivering a high postoperative dose to the tumor bed. We present our experience using proton therapy to treat 33 patients with skull base chordomas. Design Retrospective outcomes study. Setting University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute; 2007 to 2011. Participants A total of 33 patients with skull base chordomas received postoperative three-dimensional conformal proton therapy. The patients were 79% male and 6% diabetic; 27% had received a gross total resection. Main Outcome Measures The gross tumor/tumor bed received a dose between 77.4 CGE and 79.4 CGE. Local control and overall survival were tracked, and radiation toxicity was assessed using a modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Late Radiation Morbidity Scoring Scheme. Results Median follow-up for all patients was 21 months. Local control and overall survival rates at 2 years were 86% and 92%, respectively. Grade 2 toxicity was observed in 18% of our cohort in the form of unilateral hearing loss partially corrected with a hearing aid. No grade 2 or higher optic or brainstem toxicities were observed. Conclusions Proton therapy is an effective treatment modality for skull base chordomas.
Coronary Heart Disease Risk in People 65 Years of Age and Older

Evidence from epidemiologic studies indicates that the same factors that are associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) in middle-aged people are relevant in older adults (i.e., those aged >or=65). The relative risk associated with some risk factors decreases with advancing age but this is offset by greater incidence of CHD among older adults. A growing body of evidence from clinical trials indicates that risk factor modification in older adults reduces CHD risk as effectively as it does in middle-aged adults. Multivariable risk assessment can be used to effectively target intervention to those at significant risk for an initial CHD event and to avoid over-treatment. It is important to appreciate that the average remaining life expectancy after achieving 80 years is about 8 years.
The role of the AML1 transcription factor in leukemogenesis.

Chromosomal translocations are one of the hallmarks of human leukemias. These structural abnormalities result in the generation of genetic mutations that play a direct role in the transformation of hematopoietic stem cells. Some of the most common targets of these chromosomal rearrangements are the genes that encode the AML1/CBFβ transcription factor complex. The AML1/CBFβ complex plays a critical role in normal hematopoiesis, controlling the initiation of a transcriptional cascade required for the formation of definitive hematopoietic stem cells. Understanding how alterations in the normal biologic activity of this transcription factor complex lead to the initiation of leukemia will provide critical insights in the molecular pathogenesis of this disease. These insights in turn are likely to lead to the development of more rational approaches to the treatment of acute leukemia. In this review, we will summarize our current understanding of the mechanisms by which alterations in the activity of AML1/CBFβ contribute to the development of leukemia.
Temperature and air velocity effects on ethanol emission from corn silage with the characteristics of an exposed silo face

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from agricultural sources are believed to be an important contributor to tropospheric ozone in some locations. Recent research suggests that silage is a major source of VOCs emitted from agriculture, but only limited data exist on silage emissions. Ethanol is the most abundant VOC emitted from corn silage; therefore, ethanol was used as a representative compound to characterize the pattern of emission over time and to quantify the effect of air velocity and temperature on emission rate. Ethanol emission was measured from corn silage samples removed intact from a bunker silo. Emission rate was monitored over 12 h for a range in air velocity (0.05, 0.5, and 5 m s �1 ) and temperature (5, 20, and 35 � C) using a wind tunnel system. Ethanol flux ranged from 0.47 to 210 g m �2 h �1 and 12 h cumulative emission ranged from 8.5 to 260 g m �2 . Ethanol flux was highly dependent on exposure time, declining rapidly over the first hour and then continuing to decline more slowly over the duration of the 12 h trials. The 12 h cumulative emission increased by a factor of three with a 30 � C increase in temperature and by a factor of nine with a 100-fold increase in air velocity. Effects of air velocity, temperature, and air-filled porosity were generally consistent with a conceptual model of VOC emission from silage. Exposure duration, temperature, and air velocity should be taken into consideration when measuring emission rates of VOCs from silage, so emission rate data obtained from studies that utilize low air flow methods are not likely representative of field conditions. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Major depressive disorder and factorial dimensions among individuals with recent-onset spinal cord injury.

Objective: We examine the rates of major depressive disorder, single episode determined by the Inventory to Diagnose Depression (IDD) in a clinical sample of persons with recent-onset spinal cord injury (SCI; ≤52 weeks) participating in an inpatient SCI rehabilitation program. We also analyzed the factor structure of the IDD measure in an attempt to replicate the factor structure reported by Frank et al. (1992), and we examined item endorsement patterns. Design: A retrospective chart review was conducted. Participants were 354 individuals (93 women, 261 men) in an inpatient SCI rehabilitation program. Results: Fifteen percent of the sample met criteria for a major depressive disorder (MDD). A higher rate of depression was observed among women. A "dysphoria" factor accounted for 24% of the variance in the final four-factor model. The four-factor solution explained a total of 35.5% of the variance, with an "anhedonia" factor contributing 4.6%, a "sleep" factor contributing 3.5%, and an "appetite" factor contributing 3.5%, respectively. Items assessing symptoms of insomnia, weight loss, worrying about health, and decreased energy had the highest percentage of endorsement to meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for clinical significance. Conclusions: The rate of single episodes of MDD determined by the IDD parallels the rate observed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The factor structure of the IDD was similar to that reported by Frank et al. (1992). Information provided by the IDD about the presence and severity of MDD symptoms can inform interventions for persons with SCI. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
Form prayer and nursing care: Christian perspectives.

This article, offers a few forms of prayer that might be helpful in specific patient care situations.
Treating an HIV/AIDS Patient’s PTSD and Medication Nonadherence With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A Principle-Based Approach

Abstract HIV/AIDS patients with medication adherence problems are vulnerable to developing drug resistance, immune system degradation, and opportunistic infections. Poor adherence to antiretroviral medication regimens can be aggravated by psychiatric problems, including depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. This article presents the case study of a patient with HIV/AIDS who was unable to adhere to his antiretroviral medication regimen primarily because of PTSD and depressive symptoms resulting from a sexual assault that had caused his seroconversion. Exposure-based cognitive-behavioral therapy was instrumental in helping the patient overcome his PTSD and depressive symptoms so that he could tolerate his HIV medications. The patient’s symptom relief was evidenced by improved scores on the Impact of Event Scale and Beck Depression Inventory. The article discusses the importance of accurate assessment, therapist flexibility, and principle-based treatment versus strict adherence to manual-based protocols.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Protein in Milk

Abstract The spectrophotometric method of Haugaard and Damm (1) for estimating the protein content of skimmilk at wavelength 277 m μ was modified for raw and pasteurized milk, sterile concentrate, and cream as follows: Add 0.5ml of butylamine to 0.5ml of milk, heat to 65C for 5min, add 25ml of a mixture of 0.3% each of disodium ethylenediamine—tetraacetate (EDTA) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), add five drops of hydrochloric acid and filter. Add one drop of 30% sodium hydroxide solution and read the optical density at 280 m μ . For milk changed by the Maillard-type reaction, add 0.5ml of butylamine to 0.5ml of milk, heat to 65C and add two drops of sodium borohydride. The remainder of the procedure is the same. Results for whole milk, sterile concentrated milk, and cream agreed with the Kjeldahl method.
Results from raw milk microbiological tests do not predict the shelf-life performance of commercially pasteurized fluid milk

Analytical tools that accurately predict the performance of raw milk following its manufacture into commercial food products are of economic interest to the dairy industry. To evaluate the ability of currently applied raw milk microbiological tests to predict the quality of commercially pasteurized fluid milk products, samples of raw milk and 2% fat pasteurized milk were obtained from 4 New York State fluid milk processors for a 1-yr period. Raw milk samples were examined using a variety of tests commonly applied to raw milk, including somatic cell count, standard plate count, psychrotrophic bacteria count, ropy milk test, coliform count, preliminary incubation count, laboratory pasteurization count, and spore pasteurization count. Differential and selective media were used to identify groups of bacteria present in raw milk. Pasteurized milk samples were held at 6°C for 21 d and evaluated for standard plate count, coliform count, and sensory quality throughout shelf-life. Bacterial isolates from select raw and pasteurized milk tests were identified using 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing. Linear regression analysis of raw milk test results versus results reflecting pasteurized milk quality consistently showed low R(2) values (<0.45); the majority of R(2) values were <0.25, indicating small relationship between the results from the raw milk tests and results from tests used to evaluate pasteurized milk quality. Our findings suggest the need for new raw milk tests that measure the specific biological barriers that limit shelf-life and quality of fluid milk products.
The freshwater littoral meiofauna in a South Carolina reservoir receiving thermal effluents

SUMMARY. The freshwater littoral meiofauna along a temperature gradient in Par Pond (a cooling reservoir receiving thermal effluents from a nuclear reactor) was sampled from September 1975 to October 1976. Monthly samples were taken at three stations; ‘hot-water’ (15–40°C), ‘warm-water’ (13–37°C) and ambient or ‘cold-water’ (8–37°C) sites. Total numbers of individuals at the ambient site ranged from 971 to 3674 per 10 cm2 (mean = 2263), approximating the density reported from productive estuarine environments. Nematodes, rotifers, ostracods, cladocerans and mites comprised 80% of overall density. When compared to the ambient site, thermally affected sites demonstrated reduced faunal density. Contrary to other environmental perturbation studies, the Shannon-Weaver diversity index (H') did not reflect alteration of structural complexity within the rotifer taxocene when hot-water, warm-water and cold-water sites were compared. Though there was a significant reduction in number of species at the thermally altered sites, high ‘equitability’ among the reduced species resulted in H’ values comparable to those in natural communities. Distinct winter-spring and summer-autumn assemblages were evident in the ambient community while no seasonal clustering was apparent at the thermally affected sites. It is hypothesized that the maintenance of temperatures above ambient normals masks environmental cues that normally would elicit seasonal changes in the rotifer fauna at those two sites.
Current needs for increased accuracy and precision in measurements of low levels of lead in blood

Needs for accurate and precise measurements of low levels of lead in blood are discussed. Current methodologies are sufficient for measuring blood lead (PbB) levels >0.5 μ m , but the accuracy and precision of those methodologies are inadequate for measuring lower ( m ) PbB concentrations. These analytical limitations are primarily due to contamination bias incurred during sample collection, processing, and analyses. Consequently, trace metal-clean procedures should be adopted to elucidate the contribution of environmental lead to the PbB levels of the U.S. population and to estimate the threshold(s) of subclinical lead toxicity.
A surface tension gradient mechanism for driving the pre-corneal tear film after a blink.

Abstract An attempt has been made to suggest a mechanism capable of driving the pre-corneal tear film toward the upper lid after a blink. First, in vivo experiments were performed on human subjects to gain quantitative information on the motion of the tear film. Motion pictures were taken of naturally occurring particles in the tear film, and their trajectories, after blinking, were recorded. It is postulated that this motion is driven by surface tension gradients, caused by non-uniformities in the concentration of the surface active material found at the tear film surface. Parameters needed to characterize this ‘surface tension gradient mechanism’ are independently estimated from surface chemistry literature. A small displacement approximation to the governing hydrodynamic equations is carried to second order. Comparison of the solution with the experimental data indicates that this mechanism is a likely candidate for driving this flow.
Metabolic regulation of plasma apolipoprotein E by estrogen and progesterone in the baboon (Papio sp).

Abstract Apolipoprotein (apo) E plays an important role in the metabolism of lipoproteins. To determine the effects of estrogen and progesterone on plasma levels and metabolism of apo E, we used 12 ovariectomized baboons fed a cholesterol- and fat-enriched diet. These baboons were divided into four groups and treated with estrogen, progesterone, estrogen + progesterone, and a placebo control. After 10 months, although the lipid levels were not different among the treatment groups, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratios in the estrogen + progesterone group were significantly lower than those in the control and progesterone groups. Estrogen alone or in combination with progesterone decreased plasma apo Elevels significantly compared with those in the control group. Plasma apo E levels in the progesterone group were similar to those in the control group. In all groups, most (> 60%) of the apo E was present in HDL. HDL apo E concentrations in the estrogen and estrogen + progesterone groups were significantly lower than those in the control and progesterone groups. To determine the metabolic mechanisms of these changes in apo E levels, turnover studies were conducted by injection of iodinated apo E-labeled very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and HDL. Residence times were calculated using multicompartment modeling. Progesterone alone and in combination with estrogen decreased residence times of apo E injected in both HDL and VLDL compared with estrogen alone and control groups. Progesterone alone also increased the apo E production rate compared with other groups. On the other hand, estrogen decreased the production rate of apo E in HDL and VLDL and, in addition, decreased the residence time of VLDL apo E compared with the control group. When estrogen was administered with progesterone, the production rate of apo E was not decreased and was similar to that in the control group. This observation suggests that the effect of estrogen on apo E production is counterbalanced by progesterone.
Planned treatment interruptions and chemotherapy-free intervals in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer : Time to start stopping?

Studies have begun to examine stop-and-go or intermittent chemotherapy strategies in patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Such strategies potentially may reduce cumulative toxicities associated with long-term therapies. In addition, planned interruptions in treatment would be expected to lower overall costs of treatment, and would clearly offer patients the opportunity to have breaks from oncology visits and associated toxicities of therapy. Greater efforts to define such strategies are necessary, particularly because patients with advanced colorectal cancer now have multiple lines of therapy planned and spend greater amounts of time on treatment. Several studies have suggested that interrupting oxaliplatin or irinotecan treatment may be acceptable in terms of efficacy and beneficial in terms of toxicity. This article will address these and other trials, as well as data relating to incorporation of biologic therapies into combination chemotherapy for patients with advanced colorectal cancer.
DOMINANTLY INHERITED OSTEOGENESIS IMPERFECTA (OI TYPES I AND IV) IS GENETICALLY LINKED TO THE COLIAI AND CJL1A2 GENES OF TYPE I COLLAGEN

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetically heterogeneous group of connective tissue disorders. Mutations in Type I collagen have been shown in a number of OI variants. Using restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) associated with the two structural genes of Type I collagen we studied the segregation of these markers in families with autosomal dominant OI. The RFLPs have been previously reported (Tsipouras et al, Am.J. Hum. Genet. 1984: 36:1172-9, Sykes et al, Lancet 1986:2:69-72). In four families with OI type IV we observed concordant segregation to the COL1A2 RFLPs and discordant to the COL1A1. In one family with OI type I we observed concordance to the CUL1A1 and discordance to the COL1A2. Finally in one family with OI type I we observed discordance to both the COL1A1 and COL1A2. Our results suggest that: a) autosomal dominant OI is genetically heterogeneous and b) a locus other than the COL1A1 and COL1A2 may be involved in the etiology of OI.
Changes in Gram-Negative Bacteria and Endotoxin in Stored Bales of Lint

Cotton subjected to several harvesting and ginning treatments was stored in a warehouse for six months. The bales of lint were sampled during ginning and the storage period and the samples analyzed for gram-negative bacteria and endotoxin content. Levels of gram-negative bacteria decreased during the storage period; however, no trends were observed in the endotoxin levels. Gram-negative bacteria levels were highest for the bales of lint that contained the highest levels of moisture and foreign matter.
Mass transfer in countercurrent supercritical extraction

Abstract This paper addresses problems and background information associated with the design of sieve-tray extraction col-ums operating in the supercritical solvent region. An appropriate mass transfer model is selected, and the needs and sources of basic data are reviewed. The model is executed for both conventional and supercritical extraction cases. Comparisons for both cases are made against measured data. It is concluded that stage efficiencies for the supercritical case are superior, largely due to favorable transport properties.
Neonatal Pulmonary Hypertension: Pathophysiologic-Based Therapy

Rational management of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) in the newborn infant must be based on an understanding of underlying causes. When a specific diagnosis can be made, empirical treatment gives way to specific therapy. For every pathophysiologic abnormality potentially resulting in PAH, clinical entities can be identified and key therapeutic interactions can be considered. 1. Pulmonary Venous Hypertension: PAH is secondary to obstruction of blood flow through the left heart. If based on anatomic abnormality (mitral or left atrial), surgical relief of obstruction is required. If PAH is the result or functional abnormality of the left ventricle (transient left ventricular ischemia), medical treatment of left ventricular failure is most important. 2. Functional Obstruction of Pulmonary Vascular Bed: Hyperviscosity of blood (polycythemia - HCT > 65) results in increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Treatment consists of reduction of red blood cell volume. 3. Pulmonary Vascular Constriction: Hypoxemia with or without pulmonary parenchymal disease (primary or secondary persistent fetal circulation [PFC] syndrome). Therapy is directed at improvement of oxygenation and dilatation of pulmonary arteriolar bed (e.g. O2 hyperventilation and/or pulmonary vasodilator therapy). 4. Decreased Pulmonary Vascular Bed: If primary pulmonary hypoplasia is present, no treatment is available. If secondary form (diaphragmatic hernia), surgical repair and pulmonary vasodilatation of contralateral lung is indicated. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can be used in severe cases. 5. Increased pulmonary blood flow: Causes in the neonate include complex heart disease without pulmonary stenosis; and peripheral A—V fistula. Treatment: Surgical limitation of pulmonary blood flow may be required. Even when PAH is the result of combined etiologies, a prompt well-organized clinical management plan can follow from understanding of pathologic principles.
Roles of the Drosophila SK Channel (dSK) in Courtship Memory

A role for SK channels in synaptic plasticity has been very well-characterized. However, in the absence of simple genetic animal models, their role in behavioral memory remains elusive. Here, we take advantage of Drosophila melanogaster with its single SK gene (dSK) and well-established courtship memory assay to investigate the contribution of this channel to memory. Using two independent dSK alleles, a null mutation and a dominant negative subunit, we show that while dSK negatively regulates the acquisition of short-term memory 30 min after a short training session, it is required for normal long-term memory 24 h after extended training. These findings highlight important functions for dSK in courtship memory and suggest that SK channels can mediate multiple forms of behavioral plasticity.
Culture and Politics, Behavior and Biology: Seeking Synthesis among Fragmentary Anthropological Perspectives on Hunter-Gatherers

Hunter-gatherers define humanity's Pleistocene evolutionary past. Yet, hunter-gatherer societies in the 20th–21st centuries are examples par excellence of cultural marginalization, domination, and resilience. This review of six recent works on hunter-gatherers—spanning Paleolithic archaeology, bioarchaeology, behavioral ecology, and cultural anthropology—underscores that human forager diversity can be explained neither by culturally embedded political processes nor by ecologically situated evolutionary factors alone. Yet, theoretical bridging frameworks remain elusive, with a narrowing but persistent culture-biology divide. Recent developments in evolutionary life-history theory provide a robust biocultural foundation for understanding human sociality and the symbolic constitution of embodied cultural practice.
1235 CARNITINE ACYLTRANSFERACE II: INHIBITION BY KREBS CYCLE INTERMEDIATES

Carnitine acyltransferace (CAT), located on the mitochondrial inner membrane, catalyzes the reaction: This enzyme transfers acyl CoA units to the enzyme-rich matrix. The forward reaction (I), the pivotal rate-limiting step in fatty acid oxidation, occurs on the outer side of the membrane and is regulated by cytosolic malonyl CoA. The opposite reaction (II) has not been studied. After synthesizing 14C-acylcarnitine, we investigated the modification of this reaction (II) by numerous intramitochondrial metabolites. The normal CAT (prepared from rat liver) rate for this reaction (II) was 18±5 nmols/min/mg protein (mean ± S.E.; n = 7). Various CoA compounds, lactate, pyruvate, citrate and acetate did not affect this reaction at physiologic intramitochondrial concentrations (0.1 mM). However, the citric acid cycle intermediates fumarate, malate, and oxaloacetate were inhibitory (66 ± 9, 71 ± 8, 77 ± 8 percent of control, respectively; n = 7, p <,025). The attenuation of this reaction by these compounds may be salient to the overall regulation of hepatic ketogenesis, especially since glucagon alters the intracellular compartmentation of these metabolites.
Use of qualitative simulation in support of model-based reasoning

Qualitative reasoning is a collection of methods for building and simulating models of physical systems in spite of incomplete knowledge. The QSIM representation and simulation algorithm apply to models in the form of qualitative differential equations, which allow incompletely known quantity spaces and functional relations, and isolated behavioral discontinuities, to be described qualitatively. In the past few years, we have extended the early “limit analysis” methods for qualitative simulation to more sophisticated methods capable of simulating realistic systems. • The qualitative behavior description can be augmented and refined with incomplete quantitative information, producing more detailed predictions and detecting and excluding behaviors that are qualitatively plausible but quantitatively impossible. • The phase space representation, and the mathematical theory of dynamical systems, provides a more global perspective and more sophisticated filters on the set of qualitative predictions. • Complex systems must be hierarchically decomposed into simpler ones. In a time-scale abstraction hierarchy, fast mechanisms view slower mechanisms as constant, while slow mechanisms view faster ones as instantaneous (e.g. as functional relations). • Model-building methods based on device-centered and process-centered ontologies have been implemented as compilers which build qualitative differential equations for QSIM to simulate. • Applications of qualitative simulation are under development for monitoring and diagnosis of dynamic processes; and for recognizing and expressing teleological relationships in design.
Feedback from Galaxy Formation: Production and Photodissociation of Primordial H2

We use one-dimensional radiative transfer simulations to study the evolution of H2 gas-phase (H- catalyzed) formation and photodissociation regions in the primordial universe. We find a new positive feedback mechanism capable of producing shells of H2 in the intergalactic medium (IGM), which are optically thick in some Lyman-Werner bands. While these shells exist, this feedback effect is important in reducing the H2 dissociating background flux and the size of photodissociation spheres around each luminous object. The maximum background opacity of the IGM in the H2 Lyman-Werner bands is ? ? 1-2 for a relic molecular fraction x = 2 ? 10-6, about 6 times greater than that found by Haiman, Abel, & Rees. Therefore, the relic molecular hydrogen can decrease the photodissociation rate by about an order of magnitude. The problem is relevant to the formation of small primordial galaxies with masses MDM 108 M? that rely on molecular hydrogen cooling to collapse. Alternatively, the universe may have remained dark for several hundred million years after the birth of the first stars, until galaxies with virial temperature Tvir 104 K formed.
1257 STORAGE OF TERM PLACENTAL BLOOD FOR AUTOTRANSFUSION

Autologous blood might reduce both the risks and costs of the transfusions required by approximately 1% of neonates (mainly prematures) during the first week of life. Most neonates ultimately requiring transfusion can be identified at birth, and the small quantities of blood they may require (ca. 15 ml/kg per transfusion) easily obtained from their placentas. We examined the storage properties of placental blood in citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) (6.3 ml CPD per 46 ml blood) maintained at 4°C for up to 14 days. Eight separate samples were obtained, and the following parameters were measured by standard methods: The interval between delivery of the placenta and the drawing of blood (0-30 min) did not affect the results, which are similar to those in comparably stored adult blood. Because of high plasma K+, both adult and placental stored red cells may require washing prior to administration to infants. These data indicate that storage of placental blood for autologous transfusion into neonates is feasible and deserves further investigation.
Surge, Escalate, Withdraw and Shinseki: Forecasting and Retro‐casting American Force Strategies and Insurgency in Iraq*

Central to the contemporary American foreign policy debate is the issue of reducing insurgency and promoting stability in Iraq and the role of American military forces in achieving these outcomes. Military force–related proposals range from complete withdrawal to a moderate “surge” in troops to a massive escalation of the force commitment. Here, we draw upon an analysis of domestic political stability in 60 imposed political systems occurring during the period 1816–1994 to forecast the effectiveness of said force-related proposals. The analysis underscores, in part, that (i) a policy of surging American troops is unlikely to succeed, (ii) a policy of belated massive escalation reduces insurgency, but much less so than an initial policy of massive invasion coupled with massive occupation, a strategy that preempts the development of a robust insurgency.
The Biology of Pneumococcal Infection

For 100 y, the study of the molecular mechanism of pneumococcal infection has richly rewarded biomedical science and pediatrics. More recently, a framework has emerged for how the pathogen engineers colonization, invasion of the lung and bloodstream, and finally, entry into the brain. This trafficking is then followed by a separate set of events to generate the symptoms of disease. Understanding the ligand receptor interactions that dictate these events has suggested new concepts for how to control the course of an infectious process and improve the morbidity and mortality of encounters with this prevalent pathogen of children.
The insulin receptor substrate (IRS-1) is a pest protein that is susceptible to calpain degradation in vitro

The insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) contains at least 11 sequence motifs that are rich in proline (P), glutamic acid (E), serine (S), and threonine (T), i.e., PEST regions. Proteins with PEST regions turn over rapidly. IRS-1 is degraded rapidly in vivo upon exposure of 3T3-L1 adipocytes to insulin. The intracellular, calcium-dependent, neutral proteases known as calpains are one possible mechanism by which IRS-1 may be degraded. To begin to investigate this possibility, purified exogenous calpain was shown to degrade IRS-1 in cell-free extracts from basal and insulin-treated cells and rat recombinant IRS-1 in vitro. Only two proteolytic fragments could be detected. One had a mol wt of approximately 79 kDa, arising from the C-terminus end, and the second had a mol wt of approximately 90 kDa arising from near the N-terminus, possibly a product of the same cleavage event, since the mol wt of IRS-1 from insulin-treated cells was approximately 170 kDa. These results suggest that IRS-1 may serve as a substrate for calpain in vivo, accounting for its rapid degradation.
Compact ultrawideband beam-steering horn antenna

A novel horn antenna fed by a Tightly Coupled Dipole Array (TCDA) is presented. Unlike a conventional horn, the proposed “TCDA-horn” allows for beamforming and achieves high gain with far fewer feeds than a typical array. This implies realization of a high gain scanned beam with far fewer T/R modules and a simpler feed network, dramatically reducing cost and complexity. Compared to conventional horns, the proposed TCDA-horn is much more compact (&#60; 50% as long) and exhibits lower sidelobes. The given design operates over a 3 ∶ 1 impedance bandwidth, making it suitable for wideband applications.
Experimental Demonstration of an Optical-Label-Switching Router Architecture Supporting Selective 3R Regeneration

We propose an optical-label-switching router architecture that utilizes selective-3R to offer regeneration in a smart and efficient way with only limited 3R capability. The experiment demonstrates error-free operation of selective-3R with all-optical burst-mode clock recovery.
FAST RECONSTRUCTION OF CURVES WITH SHARP CORNERS

We present an algorithm to reconstruct a collection of piecewise smooth simple closed curves in the plane from a set of n sample points in O(n log n) time We prove our algorithm correctly reconstructs the curves assuming certain sampling conditions which are based on the minimum angle made by tangents at any corner point but does not include any assumptions about the uniformity of the sampling.
The Rational Attacker in Russia? Negative Campaigning in Russian Presidential Elections

Formal models of negative campaigning offer several predictions about the volume, sources, and targets of candidates' attacks on one another. We test these predictions and predictions drawn from other perspectives by analyzing public statements by candidates in the 1996 and 2000 Russian presidential campaigns. Our tests provide mixed support for the model-derived predictions. Concluding discussion centers on the need to reconsider some of the models' basic assumptions and to incorporate some neglected factors.
Power of grammatical evolution neural networks to detect gene-gene interactions in the presence of error

With the advent of increasingly efficient means to obtain genetic information, a great insurgence of data has resulted, leading to the need for methods for analyzing this data beyond that of traditional parametric statistical approaches. Recently we introduced Grammatical Evolution Neural Network (GENN), a machine-learning approach to detect gene-gene or gene-environment interactions, also known as epistasis, in high dimensional genetic epidemiological data. GENN has been shown to be highly successful in a range of simulated data, but the impact of error common to real data is unknown. In the current study, we examine the power of GENN to detect interesting interactions in the presence of noise due to genotyping error, missing data, phenocopy, and genetic heterogeneity. Additionally, we compare the performance of GENN to that of another computational method – Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction (MDR). GENN is extremely robust to missing data and genotyping error. Phenocopy in a dataset reduces the power of both GENN and MDR. GENN is reasonably robust to genetic heterogeneity and find that in some cases GENN has substantially higher power than MDR to detect functional loci in the presence of genetic heterogeneity. GENN is a promising method to detect gene-gene interaction, even in the presence of common types of error found in real data.
Electromagnetic characterization of strontium ferrite powders in series 2000, SU8 polymer

In this article, electromagnetic characterization of strontium hexaferrite powders and composites with SU8 was carried out to determine their compatibility with micro and millimeter wave fabrications. The structures of both powders and their composites were scanned with electron microscope to produce the SEM images. Two powder sizes (0.8–1.0 μm and 3–6 μm), were mixed with SU8, spin cast and patterned on wafer, and then characterized using energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry, ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) and vibrating sample magnetometry. In this investigation, FMRs of the samples were determined at 60 GHz while their complex permittivity and permeability were determined using rectangular waveguide method of characterization between 26.5 and 40 GHz frequency range. The results obtained show no adverse effects on the electromagnetic properties of the composites except some slight shift in the resonant frequencies due to anisotropic field of the samples.
Statistical Genetics Concepts and Approaches in Schizophrenia and Related Neuropsychiatric Research

Statistical genetics is a research field that focuses on mathematical models and statistical inference methodologies that relate genetic variations (ie, naturally occurring human DNA sequence variations or “polymorphisms”) to particular traits or diseases (phenotypes) usually from data collected on large samples of families or individuals. The ultimate goal of such analysis is the identification of genes and genetic variations that influence disease susceptibility. Although of extreme interest and importance, the fact that many genes and environmental factors contribute to neuropsychiatric diseases of public health importance (eg, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression) complicates relevant studies and suggests that very sophisticated mathematical and statistical modeling may be required. In addition, large-scale contemporary human DNA sequencing and related projects, such as the Human Genome Project and the International HapMap Project, as well as the development of high-throughput DNA sequencing and genotyping technologies have provided statistical geneticists with a great deal of very relevant and appropriate information and resources. Unfortunately, the use of these resources and their interpretation are not straightforward when applied to complex, multifactorial diseases such as schizophrenia. In this brief and largely nonmathematical review of the field of statistical genetics, we describe many of the main concepts, definitions, and issues that motivate contemporary research. We also provide a discussion of the most pressing contemporary problems that demand further research if progress is to be made in the identification of genes and genetic variations that predispose to complex neuropsychiatric diseases.
Minimum area cost for a 30 to 70 Gbits/s AES processor

This paper presents the design decisions and area optimizations to obtain a high throughput, over 30 Gbits/s AES processor. With loop unrolling and outer-round pipelining techniques, throughputs of 30 Gbits/s to 70 Gbits/s are achievable in a 0.18 /spl mu/m CMOS technology. Moreover, by using inner round pipelining of the composite field implementation of the substitution phase and designing an offline key scheduling unit for the AES processor the area cost is reduced by 48% while the same throughput is maintained. Therefore, the over 30 Gbits/s, fully pipelined AES processor operating in the counter mode can be use for the encryption of data on optical links.
Quality Attributes of Various Processed Meats from Pigs Treated with Porcine Somatotropin

Canadian-style bacon, boneless ham and bacon were processed from pigs treated with one of five levels of porcine somatotropin (pSt) (0.00, 1.67, 3.33, 5.00 or 6.67 mg/day). Canadian-style bacon and boneless ham from treated and untreated pigs did not differ in composition, processing yields, Warner-Bratzler shear values or color of product stored 16 weeks. Trained sensory judges indicated no differences existed in tenderness, juiciness or cured flavor of boneless ham from the pSt treatment. Canadian-style bacon from treated pigs was less tender than that from control pigs. Generally, pSt treatment had no detrimental effects on processing characteristics of the muscles studied.