cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lhx6 Delineates a Pathway Mediating Innate Reproductive Behaviors from the Amygdala to the Hypothalamus

In mammals, innate reproductive and defensive behaviors are mediated by anatomically segregated connections between the amygdala and hypothalamus. This anatomic segregation poses the problem of how the brain integrates activity in these circuits when faced with conflicting stimuli eliciting such mutually exclusive behaviors. Using genetically encoded and conventional axonal tracers, we have found that the transcription factor Lhx6 delineates the reproductive branch of this pathway. Other Lhx proteins mark neurons in amygdalar nuclei implicated in defense. We have traced parallel projections from the posterior medial amygdala, activated by reproductive or defensive olfactory stimuli, respectively, to a point of convergence in the ventromedial hypothalamus. The opposite neurotransmitter phenotypes of these convergent projections suggest a “gate control” mechanism for the inhibition of reproductive behaviors by threatening stimuli. Our data therefore identify a potential neural substrate for integrating the influences of conflicting behavioral cues and a transcription factor family that may contribute to the development of this substrate.
Cardiac noradrenergic nerve terminal abnormalities in dogs with experimental congestive heart failure.

BACKGROUNDWe have shown previously that norepinephrine (NE) uptake activity is reduced in the failing right ventricle of animals with right heart failure (RHF) produced by tricuspid avulsion and progressive pulmonary constriction. However, it is unknown whether this defect in neuronal NE uptake is related to reduction of noradrenergic nerve terminals or whether these changes also occur in animals with left heart failure (LHF). It is also unknown whether increased NE release in heart failure contributes to the noradrenergic nerve abnormalities.METHODS AND RESULTSWe measured myocardial NE content. NE uptake function, and noradrenergic nerve profiles in dogs with either RHF or LHF induced by rapid ventricular pacing. NE uptake activity was measured using [3H]NE, and noradrenergic nerve profiles were visualized by glyoxylic acid (SPG)-induced histofluorescence and tyrosine hydroxylase immunocytochemical staining. To study the effects of excess NE, we exposed normal dogs to 8 weeks of chronic NE infusion using...
Production of87Br for studying neutron decay

An improved gas flow system is described for the production of87Br through a fast radiochemical separation of fission products from a solution of235U irradiated with thermal neutrons. It can produce87Br with a higher yield relative to88Br than was previously possible for measurement of neutron energy distribution. Contrary to previous indication, large amounts of iodine fission products have been found to come out of the irradiation cell in the gas stream necessitating their isolation.
ER transport signals and trafficking of potassium channels and receptors

Channels and receptors on the cell surface mediate neuronal signaling. It is therefore important to understand how their surface density is controlled. Recent studies on the trafficking of potassium channels and neurotransmitter receptors have revealed unexpected complexity in the regulation of transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus, raising the possibility that the surface composition of channels and receptors may be adjusted by controlling their export from the endoplasmic reticulum.
Cytomegalovirus infections of the nervous system in patients with AIDS

Retinitis due to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a widely recognized complication of advanced disease due to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Less appreciated are other neurological manifestations of CMV infection in persons with AIDS. Dr. J. Allen McCutchan has comprehensively reviewed the various clinical presentations of CMV neurological disease as well as the methods of diagnosis, the neuropharmacology of available antiviral agents, the results of therapy, and the potential for prevention of these sequela of advanced immunosuppression. As the ability to prevent diseases such as Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, bacteremia secondary to Mycobacterium avium, tuberculosis, serious fungal infections, and toxoplasma cerebritis is increasing, physicians must now treat more HIV-1-infected persons with CMV disease. This AIDS Commentary provides a timely update of the current state of our knowledge regarding this serious problem.
An Eco-friendly, Scaled-down Gram Stain Protocol.

Currently, flushing large volumes of Gram stain reagents into sanitary sewage systems is no longer acceptable. These chemical wastes are highly regulated and must be collected, labeled, and disposed of in a responsible manner, usually by paying a commercial service to remove them to an authorized off-site facility. Such services are costly and, as expected, costs are proportional to volume of collected waste. This “old” method of Gram staining, even if effluent is collected, generates a high volume of liquid waste which is unnecessarily diluted with additional large volumes of water from the rinsing steps. The purpose of using this scaled-down and eco-friendly protocol is to dramatically reduce the amount of liquid waste produced without sacrificing quality of results. This protocol is flexible, practical, and easy to implement. It does not require students to work at a bench sink, reduces user cost, and lowers environmental impact overall.
Permeation characteristics of and extractables from gamma-irradiated and non-irradiated plastic laminates for a unit dosage injection device

Potential migrants were isolated by Soxhlet extraction from plastic laminates used to make a single-use injection system. The concentrated extracts were then subjected to GCIMS analyses and about 22 compounds were identified. The majority of these appeared to be oligorners derived from polyethylene. Other compounds included monomers, oligomers. cross-linking agents, processing aids such as fatty acids, plasticizers and anti-slip agents. Three major new compounds were identified in the Soxhlet extract of gamma-irradiated test laminates, all of which were considered to be reaction products of nonanedioic acid with alkoxy radicals. The effect of irradiation on the profile of potential migrants and the permeabilities of the laminates were also evaluated. The amount of extractives was determined using food simulating solvents such as n-heptane, 8% alcohol and water. Minimal changes were observed in the extractives from gamma-irradiated laminates compared with non-irradiated laminates. The oxygen permeability was significantly reduced after gamma irradiation, while the average water vapour transmission rate was not significantly changed after irradiation.
The Hyaluronan Synthase Catalyzes the Synthesis and Membrane Translocation of Hyaluronan

Hyaluronan (HA), an extracellular linear polysaccharide of alternating N-acetyl-glucosamine and glucuronic acid residues, is ubiquitously expressed in vertebrates, where it affects a broad spectrum of physiological processes, including cell adhesion, migration and differentiation. The HA polymer is synthesized on the cytosolic side of the cell membrane by the membrane-embedded hyaluronan synthase (HAS). However, the process by which the extremely hydrophilic HA polymer is translocated across the membrane is unknown to date. The bacterial HAS from Streptococcus equisimilis (Se) shares a similar transmembrane topology and significant sequence identity with human HASs and likely synthesizes HA by the same mechanism. We demonstrate that the Se-HAS is both necessary and sufficient to translocate HA in a reaction that is tightly coupled to HA elongation. The purified Se-HAS is reconstituted into proteoliposomes (PLs) where it synthesizes and translocates HA. In vitro synthesized, high-molecular-weight HA remains tightly associated with the intact PLs in sedimentation experiments. Most importantly, the newly formed HA is protected from enzymatic degradation by hyaluronidase unless the PLs are solubilized with detergent, thereby demonstrating that HA is translocated into the lumen of the vesicle. In addition, we show that HA synthesis and translocation are spatially coupled events, which allow HA synthesis even in the presence of a large excess of HA-degrading enzyme. The coupled synthesis and membrane translocation of a biopolymer represents a novel membrane translocation mechanism and is likely applicable to the synthesis of some of the most abundant biopolymers, including chitin and cellulose.
The development of a scale to measure perceived corporate credibility

Abstract This paper describes the development and validation of a short, reliable, and valid self-report scale designed to measure corporate credibility or the amount of expertise and trustworthiness that consumers perceive in a corporation. Corporate credibility is thus conceptualized as a type of source credibility focused on a specific corporation as the maker of a product and/or the source of advertising and of other marketing communications. Empirical research into the antecedents, correlates, and consequences of perceived corporate credibility has been hindered by the lack of a reliable and valid measure. Five studies using data from a total of 864 subjects are described detailing the development and validation of an eight-item, Likert-type scale containing two dimensions: expertise and trustworthiness. Evidence is presented attesting to the scale's dimensionality, reliability, and validity.
Method to determine optimum equalization for maximum eye in high-speed computer system

With increasing demand on higher performance for I/O links, equalization in transmitters and receivers has been identified as a critical contributor that can improve the opening of the eye. This paper describes a method to optimize the equalization using zeroforcing to maximize I/O performance and its application to a realistic high-speed functioning system. Both hardware characterization and simulation results are provided to validate the method discussed in the paper.
Nanoparticle delivery of chemosensitizers improve chemotherapy efficacy without incurring additional toxicity

Chemosensitizers can improve the therapeutic index of chemotherapy and overcome treatment resistance. Successful translation of chemosensitizers depends on the development of strategies that can preferentially deliver chemosensitizers to tumors while avoiding normal tissue. We hypothesized that nanoparticle (NP) formulation of chemosensitizers can improve their delivery to tumors which can in turn improve their therapeutic index. To demonstrate the proof of principle of this approach, we engineered NP formulations of two chemosensitizers, the PI3-kindase inhibitor wortmanin (Wtmn) and the PARP inhibitor olaparib. NP Wtmn and NP olaparib were evaluated as chemosensitizers using lung cancer cells and breast cancer cells respectively. We found Wtmn to be an efficient chemosensitizer in all tested lung-cancer cell lines reducing tumor cell growth between 20 and 60% compared to drug alone. NP formulation did not decrease its efficacy in vitro. Olaparib showed less consistent chemosensitization as a free drug or in NP formulation. NP Wtmn was further evaluated as a chemosensitizer using mouse models of lung cancer. We found that NP Wtmn is an effective chemosensitizer and more effective than free Wtmn showing a 32% reduction in tumor growth compared to free Wtmn when given with etoposide. Importantly, NP Wtmn was able to sensitize the multi-drug resistant H69AR cells to etoposide. Additionally, the combination of NP Wtmn and etoposide chemotherapy did not significantly increase toxicity. The present study demonstrates the proof of principle of using NP formulation of chemosensitizing drugs to improve the therapeutic index of chemotherapy.
Efficacy of Behavioral Interventions for Dementia Caregivers

Behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, particularly agitation, appear to be a major contributing factor to the emotional distress exhibited by family caregivers. Psychosocial interventions have been shown to reduce caregiver emotional distress, but few studies have examined the efficacy of these interventions with caregivers exposed to high levels of dementia-related behavioral symptoms. The purpose of this study is to test the efficacy of a caregiver skill building intervention in reducing emotional distress to agitated behaviors of care recipients. This study analyzed data from a subgroup of caregivers who participated in a larger randomized clinical trial (N = 295). Data from 143 caregivers of family members with baseline agitated behaviors indicate that the skill building intervention was more effective than an information and support oriented comparison condition in reducing emotional distress over an 18-month period. These findings indicate that dementia caregivers exposed to agitated behaviors can benefit from psychosocial interventions, particularly those aimed at building behavioral management skills.
Periodic Breathing during Exercise in Severe Heart Failure : Reversal with Milrinone or Cardiac Transplantation

ithough patients with congestive heart failure have lower working capacities, the response of minute pulmonary ventilation to each increment in work load is generally believed to be normal. In this communication, we report an unusual periodic ventilatory response to exercise which had a pattern similar to that of Cheyne-Stokes respiration, and occurred in a noteworthy percentage of patients with moderate to severe
Preference for flavoured cigar brands among youth, young adults and adults in the USA

Background While cigarette consumption in the USA continues to decline, cigar consumption has increased. Tobacco-trade publications suggest that flavoured cigars are driving the recent growth in cigar consumption. Limited survey data exist to explore flavoured cigar preferences among youth and adults. Methods This study used the 2010–2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) and Nielsen market scanner data. The NSDUH sample consisted of 6678 past 30-day cigar smokers who reported smoking a usual brand of cigars. NSDUH contains a measure on usual cigar brand smoked and was merged with Nielsen data to estimate the per cent of each cigar brand9s market share that is flavoured. Results Multivariate analyses indicate that youth, young adults, females, blacks, cigarette smokers, blunt users and daily cigar smokers are significantly more likely to report a usual cigar brand that is flavoured. Preference for a usual brand that produces flavoured cigars decreases significantly with age. Conclusions This study finds recent growth in flavoured cigar consumption and preference among youth and young adults for cigar brands that are flavoured. These findings underscore the need to expand monitoring of product attributes as well as individual-level cigar use behaviours captured through population surveillance.
Hormonal Regulation of Androgen-Binding Protein in Hypophysectomized Rats*

We have recently reported that testosterone, glycerol, and sulfhydryl reagents must be added to the homogenizing medium in order to accurately determine androgen binding protein (ABP) in tissue samples (J Biol Chem 253: 166,1978). These stabilizing conditions have been utilized to measure ABP in hypophysectomized rats after chronic treatment (1–4 days) with testosterone proprionate or highly purified FSH. The purpose of these experiments was to determine which hormone is primarily responsible for ABP production and transport. Administration of testosterone in vivo seemed to result in an elevation of testicular ABP binding from 0.04 to 0.21 pmol/mg protein when tissue was homogenized in Tris-EDTA buffer. However, this higher value was also obtained by homogenizing testes from control rats under stabilizing conditions (plus testosterone). Addition of testosterone to the homogenizing medium of testosterone-injected rats resulted in no further increase in ABP activity. Purified FSH resulted in a similar value...
Addressing Click Fraud in Content Delivery Systems

Mechanisms for data access and payment are central to the success of content delivery systems. However, not much attention has been paid to the issues of dishonest intermediaries (brokers) or client collusion with dishonest brokers. We propose protocols to verify broker honesty for data accesses under standard security assumptions in such systems. Analytical and experimental results show that our protocols are robust against replay and fabrication attacks, and are consistently able to identify broker dishonesty.
Tricadmium Digermanium Tetraarsenide: A New Crystalline Phase Made with a Double‐Containment Ampoule Method

A new crystalline phase in the Cd-Ge-As family of materials was recently discovered. This phase was made with a unique double-containment ampoule method that provided a unique cooling rate along with a thermal compression mechanism. The composition of this crystalline phase was determined to be Cd3Ge2As4 with energy dispersive spectroscopy. The crystal structure is still under investigation though preliminary results are presented.
Effect of exercise on microsurgical hand tremor.

This study investigated the effects of upper-body and aerobic/lower-body-only (nonupper-body) exercise on microsurgical hand tremor. Subjects were given a task of holding a microsurgical needle tip over a small target, with video-microscopic documentation immediately before and 0, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h after either upper-body or nonupper-body (aerobic) exercise. Tremor was quantified by the amount of time the needle was maintained within a 100 x 100-microm target zone and the number of times the needle extruded from the zone. Both upper-body and aerobic-only exercise groups had significant increases in tremor immediately after exercise (P < 0.02), with a return to baseline tremor 2 h after exercise in the aerobic group and only a slightly prolonged return to baseline (by 4 h) in the majority of upper-body exercise subjects. These findings demonstrate that microsurgical hand tremor increases following exercise, but returns to baseline within 4 h in the majority of individuals, particularly after aerobic-only workouts.
A Unique Textbook for Teaching Courses in Bioinformatics [review of Discovering Genomics, Proteomics, and Bioinformatics, 2nd ed. (Cummings, B.; 2006)]

Take a look around for textbooks explaining the foundations of bioinformatics to advanced undergraduates and you'll find a very limited selection. Luckily, at least one textbook fills the niche nicely and provides an excellent launching pad for undergraduates ready to begin using in silico and high throughput biology. Now in its second edition, Discovering Genomics, Proteomics, and Bioinformatics by A. Malcolm Campbell and Laurie J. Heyer offers a biology-centered, problem-solving approach to tackling this growing and rapidly evolving discipline.
Sensor-based machine olfaction with a neurodynamics model of the olfactory bulb

We propose a biologically inspired model of olfactory processing for chemosensor arrays. The model captures three functions in the early olfactory pathway: chemotopic convergence of receptor neurons onto the olfactory bulb, center on-off surround lateral interactions, and adaptation to sustained stimuli. The projection of ORNs onto glomerular units is simulated with a self-organizing model of chemotopic convergence, which leads to odor specific spatial patterning. This information serves as an input to a network of mitral cells with center on-off surround lateral inhibition, which enhances the initial contrast among odors and decouples odor identity from intensity. Finally, slow adaptation of mitral cells adds a temporal dimension to the spatial patterns that further enhances odor discrimination. The model is validated using experimental data from an array of temperature-modulated metal-oxide sensors.
Mild hypoxia impairs alveolarization in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase-deficient mouse.

In addition to its vasodilator properties, nitric oxide (NO) promotes angiogenesis in the systemic circulation and tumors. However, the role of NO in promoting normal lung vascular growth and its i...
Competencies in the Heartland

Although many of the issues facing community colleges are similar, rural community colleges face additional leadership challenges due to limited resources, geographic isolation, and static economies. This chapter focuses on the impact of location on the interpretation and development of the leadership competencies. The chapter concludes with suggestions for developing leaders in the heartland.
Culture Change Practice in U.S. Nursing Homes: Prevalence and Variation by State Medicaid Reimbursement Policies

Purpose of the Study: To estimate the prevalence of culture change practice in U.S. nursing homes (NHs) and examine how state Medicaid policies may be associated with this prevalence. Design and Methods: In 2009/2010, we conducted a survey of a stratified proportionate random sample of NH directors of nursing (DONs) and administrators (NHAs) at 4,149U.S. NHs; contact was achieved with 3,695. Cooperation rates were 62.6% for NHAs and 61.5% for DONs. Questions focused on NH (physical) environment, resident-centered care, and staff empowerment domains. Domain scores were created and validated, in part, using qualitative interviews from 64 NHAs. Other NH covariate data were from Medicare/Medicaid surveys (Online Survey, Certification and Reporting), aggregated resident assessments (Minimum Data Set), and Medicare claims. Medicaid policies studied were a state’s average NH reimbursement rate and pay-for-performance (P4P) reimbursement (including and not including culture change performance measures). Multivariate generalized ordered logit regressions were used. Results: Eighty-five percent of DONs reported some culture change implementation. Controlling for NH attributes, a $10 higher Medicaid rate was associated with higher NH environment scores. Compared with NHs in non-P4P states, NHs in states with P4P including culture change performance measures had twice the likelihood of superior culture change scores across all domains, and NHs in other P4P states had superior physical environment and staff empowerment scores. Qualitative interviews supported the validity of survey results. Implications: Changes in Medicaid reimbursement policies may be a promising strategy for increasing culture change practice implementation. Future research examining NH culture change practice implementation pre-post P4P policy changes is recommended.
Transmission-Line Transformers

The radio-frequency transformers described in this paper consist of matched transmission lines of equal length and characteristic impedance. The lines are connected according to rules given in the text. These transformers exhibit a very broad frequency response which can be readily estimated; two methods of analysis are presented. The computations agree well with the test results.
Improving the performance of trace-based systems by false loop filtering

Trace-based compilation is a promising technique for language compilers and binary translators. It offers the potential to expand the compilation scopes that have traditionally been limited by method boundaries.Detecting repeating cyclic execution paths and capturing the detected repetitions into traces is a key requirement for trace selection algorithms to achieve good optimization and performance with small amounts of code. One important class of repetition detection is cyclic-path-based repetition detection, where a cyclic execution path (a path that starts and ends at the same instruction address) is detected as a repeating cyclic execution path.However, we found many cyclic paths that are not repeating cyclic execution paths, which we call false loops. A common class of false loops occurs when a method is invoked from multiple call-sites. A cycle is formed between two invocations of the method from different call-sites, but which does not represent loops or recursion. False loops can result in shorter traces and smaller compilation scopes, and degrade the performance.We propose false loop filtering, an approach to reject false loops in the repetition detection step of trace selection, and a technique called false loop filtering by call-stack-comparison, which rejects a cyclic path as a false loop if the call stacks at the beginning and the end of the cycle are different.We applied false loop filtering to our trace-based Java™ JIT compiler that is based on IBM's J9 JVM. We found that false loop filtering achieved an average improvement of 16% and 10% for the DaCapo benchmark when applied to two baseline trace selection algorithms, respectively, with up to 37% improvement for individual benchmarks. In the end, with false loop filtering, our trace-based JIT achieves a performance comparable to that of the method-based J9 JVM/JIT using the corresponding optimization level.
On epimorphisms and monomorphisms of Hopf algebras

Abstract We provide examples of non-surjective epimorphisms H → K in the category of Hopf algebras over a field, even with the additional requirement that K have bijective antipode, by showing that the universal map from a Hopf algebra to its enveloping Hopf algebra with bijective antipode is an epimorphism in HopfAlg, although it is known that it need not be surjective. Dual results are obtained for the problem of whether monomorphisms in the category of Hopf algebras are necessarily injective. We also notice that these are automatically examples of non-faithfully flat and respectively non-faithfully coflat maps of Hopf algebras.
An extraordinary view of Saturn's rings

A unique set of photometric and polarimetric observations made by the imaging photopolarimeter aboard the Pioneer spacecraft shortly after it penetrated the ring plane from above on its way to closest approach is reported. The bright planet limb is observed through the rings, which themselves weakly reflect direct sunlight. Polarizations range from 41% (16%) at the extreme planet limb to 2% (1.5%) at the darkest part of the B ring in the blue (red) channel. Detailed structure of the A ring is evident, most notably the Encke gap.
Comparison of Teleseismically and Hydroacoustically Derived Earthquake Locations along the North-central Mid-Atlantic Ridge and Equatorial East Pacific Rise

This letter examines earthquake locations derived using independent teleseismic and hydroacoustic data sets for events along the north-central (15°-35°N) Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) and equatorial (10°S-10°N) East Pacific Rise (EPR). It represents the first large-scale comparison of such data, providing ground-truth information for the teleseismic locations and insight into the process of T -wave generation. An assessment of location accuracy and catalog completeness in these remote ocean settings is critical for explosion monitoring efforts associated with the Comprehensive Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), as well as seismotectonic studies at mid-ocean ridges (MOR's). During the last decade, the value of hydroacoustic studies in monitoring MOR seismicity has been demonstrated through work using the U.S. Navy's SOund SUrveillance System (SOSUS) ( e.g., Fox et al., 1994) and arrays of moored autonomous underwater hydrophones (AUH's) ( e.g., Fox et al., 2001; Smith et al., 2002). These studies utilize seismically generated tertiary (7) waves that propagate within the ocean's SOund Fixing And Ranging (SOFAR) channel (Tolstoy and Ewing, 1950). In locating submarine earthquakes, the main advantages of the hydroacoustic method stem from the efficiency of this low-velocity wave guide, which allows for the detection of much smaller events at longer ranges relative to that possible with waves that travel through the solid earth, as well as from the existence of a well defined ocean sound-speed model ( e.g., Teague et al., 1990). Although T waves may be produced within regions of shallow sloping bathymetry near oceanic islands, continental shelves, and subduction zones ( e.g., Shurbet and Ewing, 1957; Johnson and Norris, 1968; Talandier and Okal, 1998), here we examine their generation in association with shallow hypocenter events within a deeper-ocean or abyssal environment ( e.g., Johnson, et al., 1968; Fox et al., 1994). In this setting, the scattering of energy from a rough seafloor has emerged as the …
Structure-Based Screen Identifies a Potent Small Molecule Inhibitor of Stat5a/b with Therapeutic Potential for Prostate Cancer and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Bypassing tyrosine kinases responsible for Stat5a/b phosphorylation would be advantageous for therapy development for Stat5a/b-regulated cancers. Here, we sought to identify small-molecule inhibitors of Stat5a/b for lead optimization and therapy development for prostate cancer (PC) and Bcr-Abl-driven leukemias. In silico screening of chemical structure databases combined with medicinal chemistry was used for identification of a panel of small-molecule inhibitors to block SH2-domain-mediated docking of Stat5a/b to the receptor-kinase complex and subsequent phosphorylation and dimerization. We tested the efficacy of the lead-compound, IST5-002, in experimental models and patient samples of two known Stat5a/b-driven cancers, prostate cancer (PC) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The lead compound Inhibitor of Stat5-002 (IST5-002) prevented both Jak2 and Bcr-Abl-mediated phosphorylation and dimerization of Stat5a/b, and selectively inhibited transcriptional activity of Stat5a (IC50 1.5 μM) and Stat5b (IC50 3.5 μM). IST5-002 suppressed nuclear translocation of Stat5a/b, binding to DNA and Stat5a/b target gene expression. IST5-002 induced extensive apoptosis of PC cells, impaired growth of PC xenograft tumors and induced cell death in patient-derived PCs when tested ex vivo in explant organ cultures. Importantly, IST5-002 induced robust apoptotic death not only of imatinib-sensitive but also imatinib-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cell lines and primary CML cells from patients. IST5-002 provides a lead structure for further chemical modifications for clinical development for Stat5a/b-driven solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
The Exercise is Medicine Global Health Initiative: a 2014 update

Background A third of the world's population does not engage in recommended levels of physical activity (PA), leading to substantial health and economic burdens. The healthcare sector offers a variety of resources that can help counsel, refer and deliver PA promotion programmes for purposes of primordial, primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. Substantial evidence already exists in support of multipronged PA counselling, prescription and referral strategies, in particular those linking healthcare and community-based resources. Methods The Exercise is Medicine (EIM) initiative was introduced in 2007 to advance the implementation of evidence-based strategies to elevate the status of PA in healthcare. In this article, we describe the evolution and global expansion of the EIM initiative, its components, their implementation, an evaluation framework and future initiative activities. Results Until now, EIM has a presence in 39 countries with EIM Regional Centers established in North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia, China and Australasia. The EIM Global Health Initiative is transitioning from its initial phase of infrastructure and awareness building to a phase of programme implementation, with an emphasis in low-to-middle income countries, where 80% of deaths due to non-communicable diseases already occur, but where a large gap in research and implementation of PA strategies exists. Conclusions Broad implementation of PA counselling and referral systems, as clinical practice standard of care, has the potential to improve PA at the population level by complementing and leveraging other efforts and to contribute to achieving global targets for the reduction of inactivity and related morbidity and mortality.
Hypersensitivity reactions to aprotinin re-exposure in paediatric surgery.

Objective: Hypersensitivity to aprotinin is low (1—3%) but more likely with re-exposure. The manufacturer issued a black box warning which lists aprotinin re-exposure within 1 year of prior exposure as a contraindication. We investigated the temporal relationship between re-exposure interval and hypersensitivity in children. Methods: With Human Research Review Board approval, charts of all patients exposed to aprotinin during cardiac surgery were reviewed. We extracted data for re-exposure interval and hypersensitivity to skin tests, intravenous test dosing or infusion of the loading dose. We defined systemic hypersensitivity as haemodynamic instability, respiratory symptoms or diffuse skin reaction temporally relatedtoexposure.Results:FromMarch1994to June2007,therewere atotalof2333aprotininexposuresin1824patients.Atotalof 509 re-exposures occurred in 381 patients: 280 in 244 patients with early (within 1 year) re-exposure and 229 in 222 patients with late (after 1 year) re-exposure. Thirteen systemic hypersensitivity reactions occurred in the 509 re-exposures (2.6%): two during skin testing and 11 duringthe loading dose. Although the incidence of local hypersensitivity was increased with early re-exposure (6/280 or 2.1% vs 0/229, p = 0.019), the incidence of the systemic reaction was not different between early and late re-exposures (6/280 or 2.1% (CI 0.8—4.6%) vs 7/229 or 3.1% (CI 1.2— 6.2%), p = 0.6). Six patients with a previous hypersensitivity reaction had an additional re-exposure to aprotinin; one of these patients had a systemic reaction during the third exposure. Conclusion: The incidence and type of hypersensitivity to aprotinin re-exposure in our cohort is consistent with previous reports. Repeat exposure within 1 year did not increase the risk of systemic hypersensitivity. # 2009 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Control of chloroplast redox by the IMMUTANS terminal oxidase

Variegation mutants offer excellent opportunities to study interactions between the nucleus-cytoplasm, the chloroplast, and the mitochondrion. Variegation in the immutans (im) mutant of Arabidopsis is induced by a nuclear recessive gene and the extent of variegation can be modulated by light and temperature. Whereas the green sectors have morphologically normal chloroplasts, the white sectors are devoid of pigments and accumulate a colourless carotenoid, phytoene. The green sectors are hypothesized to arise from cells that have avoided irreversible photooxidative damage whereas the white sectors originate from cells that are photooxidized. Cloning of the IMMUTANS (IM) gene has revealed that IMMUTANS (IM) is a plastid homologue of the mitochondrial alternative oxidase. This finding suggested a model in which IM functions as a redox component of the phytoene desaturation pathway, which requires phytoene desaturase activity. Consistent with this idea, IM has quinol oxidase activity in vitro. Recent studies have revealed that IM plays a more global role in plastid metabolism. For example, it appears to be the elusive terminal oxidase of chlororespiration and also functions as a light stress protein.
Some Effects of Aldosterone on Sodium Transport Rate Constants in Isolated Arterial Wall: Studies with Computer Simulation and Analysis

Transport rate constants (k) describing the kinetics of Na exchanges in isolated dog's carotid wall were determined with the aid of 22Na as a tracer and digital computer simulation without recourse to ancillary chemical measurements of extracellular space. Results show that aldosterone (0.85i10-6M) added to the incubating medium causes the following statistically significant changes on the arterial wall: (i) a 35% diminution of the over-all Na outflow rate constant kOi; (ii) a 3-fold diminution of the Na transport rate constant from extra to intracellular space k-2i; (Hi) a doubling of the ratio of extra to intracellular Na. These results indicate that aldosterone induces an accumulation or translocation of Na into the extracellular space. The present findings are related to those reported previously by other workers in various tissues. Results further suggest that aldosterone acts on passive Na transport impeding the entry of this cation into cells. The main significance of the approach followed in this ...
Will Single-Time Tumor Profiling and a “Guilt by Association” Approach Allow Us to Outsmart HER2-Positive Breast Cancer?

Amplification of the HER2/Neu ( ERBB2 ) gene, the second member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB) tyrosine kinase family, occurs in ∼25% of invasive breast cancers and is associated with poor patient outcome ([1][1]). Trastuzumab (Herceptin), a humanized monoclonal IgG1 that binds to
Reconfiguration of the Electrical Properties of Motoneurons to Match the Diverse Demands of Motor Behavior

Though long considered simple “threshold and fire” cells, motoneurons are now known to exhibit a wide range of electrical states. These state changes are induced by the interactions between three types of inputs: neuromodulatory, inhibitory, and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-mediated. Perhaps the strongest neuromodulators are serotonin (5HT) and norepinephrine (NE), which are released by axons descending from the brainstem. Motoneurons are densely covered in synapses from both systems. Local neuromodulatory systems within the spinal cord also have strong effects. Generally, these neuromodulatory systems greatly enhance the excitability of motoneurons, increasing their input–output gain. Local inhibitory inputs may be able to reduce motoneuron gain by deactivating the persistent inward currents that are so strongly facilitated by 5HT and NE. The glutamate NMDA receptor tends to induce oscillatory behaviors and has recently been demonstrated to be strongly present in adult motoneurons. We propose that the interactions of these inputs can induce three different states in motoneurons: integration, variable gain amplification, and oscillation. We further suggest that these states are matched to the following motor behaviors: posture, volitional movements, and locomotion.
Universal data compression algorithms by using full tree models

Summary form only given. A brief description and results of analysis of splitting and merging for constructing and updating full trees is provided. Since all the leaves are assumed to have equal probability, using these two tree-updating procedures the variable-to-fixed length codes are realized. Two algorithms are suggested. One is devised by modifying the Ziv-Lempel algorithm. The number of leaves varies but is always a power of the size of an encoded output alphabet. In the second algorithm trees always have a fixed number of leaves which is the power of the size of the encoded output alphabet. The two proposed algorithms are evaluated by the normalized average code length per source output symbol, required memory space to store information about trees, and encoding complexity. >
Distributed fuzzy control of communications

Deals with the control of battlefield radio communications. The particular properties of battlefield communications in modern warfare make a distributed access control highly desirable. Inputs for such a control are approximate descriptions of the status of the network. The control rules are heuristic because the controlled process does not have a set point. On the other hand, the network nodes have ample computing power that can be used to analyze the input and exercise access control algorithms. These circumstances suggest the use of fuzzy-logic control procedures. The author has developed such control procedures and tested their behavior on a computer model of battlefield communications.
Erratum to: Local Perceptions of MPB Infestation, Forest Management, and Connection to National Forests in Colorado and Wyoming

The Mountain Pine Beetle (MPB) infestation in Colorado and Wyoming impacts federal and state forest managers, the recreation and tourism industry, ecosystem services, and the general sustainability of livelihoods in proximity to forested areas. Using qualitative analyses, this paper investigates whether a linkage exists between individuals’ value orientations and their attitudes toward forest management in relation to MPB infestations. Data were obtained in 2011 from three open-ended questions in a mail survey of residents in Colorado and Wyoming. Our qualitative analysis revealed four value orientation types: 1) biocentric, 2) anthropocentric, 3) spiritual/therapeutic, and 4) pluralist. Additionally, respondents were generally supportive of forest management practices and the majority had a “do what you need to save the forest” attitude. A linkage between value orientations toward the national forest and management practices was identified. Research and management implications are discussed.
Baseline Depressive Symptoms Predict Subsequent Heart Disease; A 20-Year Cohort

Background: Depression is common among patients with heart disease. Depression is also associated with worse outcomes among patients with heart disease. Fewer studies have shown whether or not baseline depressive symptoms predict subsequent heart disease in general population. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether depressive symptoms at baseline predict risk of developing heart disease during the next 20 years in the United States. Patients and Methods: The data were extracted from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), 1992 - 2012. The study was conducted on 8,375 individuals who were older than 50 years at entry, did not have heart disease at baseline, and had data on heart disease over the next 20 years. High depressive symptoms (modified Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale [CES-D]) were considered as the independent variable. Self-reported data on physician diagnosis of heart disease were measured on a biannual basis. Baseline demographic data (i.e., age and gender), socioeconomic status (i.e., race, marital status, and education level), health behaviors (i.e., drinking, smoking, and exercise), and body mass index were controlled. Cox proportional hazard model was used for data analysis. Results: Cox proportional hazard model revealed a link between high depressive symptoms at baseline and time to developing heart disease (Hazard ratio = 1.439, 95% CI = 1.253 1.652), suggesting that individuals with high depressive symptoms at baseline developed heart disease sooner than others. The association between baseline depressive symptoms and risk of heart disease was significant after controlling for all the covariates. Conclusions: Individuals with depressive symptomatology are at higher risk of development of heart disease over time. Thus, individuals with depressed mood may need more rigorous evaluation for heart disease.
Albumin enhances unidirectional fluxes of fatty acid across a lipid-water interface: theory and experiments

The effect of albumin concentration on the unidirectional fluxes of [3H]oleate across a lipid-water interface was measured by using a new model system consisting of a lipid phase (n-decane) separated from a stirred buffer phase by a planar interface. Albumin (0.15 mM) enhanced the flux of oleate from the lipid phase more than 30-fold. A similar increase in the oleate flux into the lipid was seen when the aqueous oleate and albumin concentrations were increased while keeping the unbound oleate concentration fixed. The ratio of the unidirectional fluxes was constant over the range of albumin concentrations investigated (1-100 microM). Analysis using rigorous rate theory indicated that the permeability of the interfacial surface was flux-limiting at high albumin, whereas diffusion across the unstirred water layer was flux-limiting at low albumin. The observed kinetic patterns are similar to results previously reported in cellular transport systems and attributed to specialized mechanisms for cellular uptake from the albumin-bound pool.
Anticoagulant Treatment to Prevent Cerebral Infarction

The indications for anticoagulant treatment to prevent cerebral infarction or progression of cerebral infarction are now clear. The indications are: (1) Prevention of recurrent embolization from a cardiac source (long-term anticoaguland treatment). (2) Transient ischemic attacks (particularly vertebrobasilar system) if a surgically accessible causative lesion, polycythemia, and thrombocytosis are not present (anticoagulants for a few months.) (3) Progressing stroke in either systme assuming that the neurological defect is partial and CT scan shows no evidence of bleeding (anticoagulants for a few months.) (4) Rarely, completed stroke (long-term).
The Impact of Thread-embedding and Chinese Medicine on Hyperandrogenism of Obese Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of chinese medicine for strengthening the spleen and kidney or resolving phlegm,as well as thread-embedding treatment to obesity patients with PCOS,explore the mechanism through the androge.Methods:The Sixty-senven of Selected cases were randomly divid ed into thread-embedding treatment group(22 cases),Chinese medicine treatment group(22 cases),the group treated by both Chinese medicine and thread-embedding(23 cases).Then observed and compared their menstrual cycle,whether pregnancy,height,weight,testosterone(T),androstenedione(A2)and sex hormone-binding globulin(SHBG) before and after treatment.Results:The efficiency of Chinese medicine combiend with thread-embedding group was 82.62%,The efficiency of Chinese medicine group and thread-embedding group was 54.5% and 45.5%,medicine combiend with thread-embedding group was more effective than Chinese medicine group and thread-embedding group(P0.05).After the treatment,On the Chinese medicine combiend with thread-embedding group,there were significant difference in BMI,SHBG,and A2 from them before the treatment(P0.05),and this group had significant difference from both Chinese medicine group and thread-embedding group in SHBG、T and A2(P0.05).After the treatment,the BMI in the Chinese medicine combiend with thread-embedding group was significant different from it in Chinese medicine(P0.05),while it wasn′t significant different from it in thread-embedding group(P0.05).Conclusion:Therapy of Chinese medicine combiend with thread-embedding group is effective to obese patients with PCOS,and the effect is better than only by the Chinese medicine or thread-embedding treatment,its mechanism may be related to reducing BMI,improving the level of SHBG and decreasing the levels of androgen.
Recent Results from Nikko at TRISTAN

The search for elementary particles with electromagnetic couplings deviating significantly from the electron charge e has been strongly motivated by theory. In particular, the correlation noted by Dirac in 193l[l] between the quantization of electric and magnetic charge implied the existence of magnetic monopoles with charge in units \(gD \equiv {e \over {2\alpha }} \sim 68.5e.\) Our understanding of the elementary particles and their interactions has evolved dramatically since that time, but the original hypothesis still stands, unconfirmed yet not ruled out by experimental data. From a theoretical point of view, recent trends indicate a preference toward very massive monopoles, well beyond the reach of any accelerator. Although these models are elegant, they are unfortunately difficult to test experimentally, and the few tests which have been employed have thus far failed to support them. In such a context it is important to pursue alternative possibilities, to probe as much unexplored area as is feasible within technological and practical limits.
Combining and Verifying Primitives

As with many other building extraction systems, PIVOT employs a data-driven hypothesize-and-test paradigm. In this processing strategy, early stages of image analysis create high-level object hypotheses from low-level image features, which are then subjected to verification procedures to select the best subset of hypotheses for a scene model. In Chapters 3 and 4, vanishing point detection and the resulting constraints for intermediate feature generation led to the creation of a set of geometrically consistent 2D wireframe primitives.