cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Libertad de expresión y sanción administrativa. Funcionarios, jueces y el uso de las redes sociales

En el presente trabajo se examina cual es el alcance que debe darse al derecho fundamental de libre expresion en el contexto del empleo publico. En particular, se analizan cuales son los estandares y requisitos constitucionales que condicionan el ejercicio de la potestad sancionatoria en el plano administrativo por el uso inadecuado de las redes sociales en el caso de empleados estatales en general, y de los jueces en particular.
Computing curriculum 2001: getting down to specifics

In the fall of 1998, the ACM Education Board and the Educational Activities Board of the IEEE Computer Society appointed representatives to a joint task force to prepare Curriculum 2001, the next installment in a series of reports on the undergraduate Computer Science curriculum that began in 1968 and was then updated in 1978 and 1991. In this talk, Eric Roberts — one of the cochairs of the Curriculum 2001 effort — will review the state of the project and lead a general discussion of the recommendations made by the “Steelman” version of the report, which will be released at the end of August.
Pediatric Q Fever

The non-specific presentation of acute Q fever makes it difficult to diagnose in children, but untreated Q fever can result in chronic infections that have severe complications. Pediatric Q fever cases continue to be infrequently reported in the literature, and primarily document cases of persistent infections with Coxiella burnetii. Standardized treatment protocols for chronic Q fever in children still do not exist. Doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine are the treatment combination most utilized by healthcare providers to treat Q fever endocarditis or osteomyelitis in children, but a variety of other antibiotic combinations have been reported with varying results. The use of adjunctive therapies, such as such as interferon gamma, has produced mixed outcomes. The true impact of Coxiella burnetii on the health of children remains unknown; long-term longitudinal follow-up of children with acute or chronic Q fever has not been reported. Both the acute and chronic forms of Q fever are underreported and underdiagnosed. Healthcare providers should consider Q fever in pediatric patients with culture-negative endocarditis or osteomyelitis.
Urban System in Geography

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by P. Hall, volume 24, pp. 16099–16104, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
Hospitalization With Major Infection and Incidence of End-Stage Renal Disease: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

Abstract Objective To evaluate whether the incidence of infectious diseases increases the long-term risk for incident end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the general population. Patients and Methods In 10,290 participants of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study who attended visit 4 (1996-1998), we evaluated the association of incident hospitalization with major infections (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, bloodstream infection, and cellulitis and osteomyelitis) with subsequent risk for ESRD through September 30, 2015. Hospitalization with major infection was entered into multivariable Cox models as a time-varying exposure to estimate the hazard ratios. Results Mean age was 63 years, and of 10,290 individuals, 56% (n=5781) were women, 22% (n=2252) were black, and 7% (n=666) had an estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. During a median follow-up of 17.4 years, there were 2642 incident hospitalizations with major infection and 281 cases of ESRD (132 cases after hospitalization with major infection). The risk for ESRD was higher following major infection compared with while free of major infection (crude incidence rate, 10.9 vs 1.0 per 1000 person-years). In multivariable time-varying Cox analysis, hospitalization with major infection was associated with a 3.3-fold increased risk for ESRD (hazard ratio, 3.34; 95% CI, 2.56-4.37). The association was similar across pneumonia, urinary tract infection, bloodstream infection, and cellulitis and osteomyelitis, and remained significant across subgroups of age, sex, race, diabetes, history of cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. Conclusion Hospitalization with major infection was independently and robustly associated with subsequent risk for ESRD. Whether preventive approaches against infection have beneficial effects on kidney outcomes may deserve future investigations.
Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Response to Radiotherapy vs BCG in a Murine Model of Bladder Cancer

Background The role of radiotherapy combined with immunotherapy in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is currently being investigated. Radiation induced DNA damage triggering immunogenic tumor cell death and consequent immune responses in bladder tumor microenvironment is not fully understood. We compared local immune response following radiotherapy with BCG-induced immune response using a BBN murine model of urothelial carcinoma (UC). Methods Female C57BL/6 control(no tumor, n=15) or BBN exposed mice(tumor, n=13) received radiotherapy(single external beam dose,15 Gy,n=10), intravesical BCG instillation (3 × 100μL of 1 × 108CFU,n=9) or saline treatment (n=9). Tumor involvement was assessed by pathologic grading of bladder tissue and immune responses quantified using Nanostring Myeloid Innate Immunity Panel. Infiltrating Tcells were evaluated by CD4, CD8 and FOXP3 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tissue macrophages quantified as M1 or M2 phenotype based on CD86 and CD206 IHC. Results No tumors were seen in BBN+BCG bladder tissues compared to BBN+saline or BBN+radiotherapy. Intravesical BCG instillation in BBN mice elevated cytosolic DNA sensing pathway as seen by increased mRNA levels of tmem173(STING) that was consistent with elevated levels of downstream cytokines tnfa, infg, il6 and chemokine cxcl10. mRNA expression of 3’exonuclease trex1, that degrades 3′ ends of nicked DNA during immunogenic cell death, was elevated in BBN+BCG as well as BBN+radiation samples. BBN+BCG samples had increased CD8/FOXP3 and CD4/FOXP3 ratios assessed by IHC and increased M1 macrophage shift validated by mRNA expression and IHC. Conclusion BCG instillation caused a robust proinflammatory immune response compared to radiation in murine UC possibly via STING-dependent induction of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines concomitant with shift toward M1 macrophage polarization and increased Teff/Treg ratios. Elevated trex1 may degrade DNA damage as a direct response to radiation thereby inhibiting STING activation and cytokine response in radiated samples. These findings highlight the need to uncover mechanisms of radiation induced immune response in NMIBC to optimize utilization of immunotherapy with radiotherapy.
Advances in Targeting GIRK Channels in Disease

G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels are essential regulators of cell excitability in the brain. While they are implicated in a variety of neurological diseases in both human and animal model studies, their therapeutic potential has been largely untapped. Here, we review recent advances in the development of small molecule compounds that specifically modulate GIRK channels and compare them with first-generation compounds that exhibit off-target activity. We describe the method of discovery of these small molecule modulators, their chemical features, and their effects in vivo. These studies provide a promising outlook on the future development of subunit-specific GIRK modulators to regulate neuronal excitability in a brain region-specific manner.
Subduing the demons of Tibet: geomantic magic during the Yarlung dynasty: a landscape archaeology assessment

Historic documents indicate that during the Yarlung Dynasty (AD 620–AD 842), Tibetan emperors employed geomantic and magical practices in the design and siting of important religious structures. Ge...
The possibility of islands in the Anthropocene

David Chandler and Jonathan Pugh’s (2021) article proposes a new critical research agenda to examine how islands are being mobilized as central sites of the Anthropocene. In that vein, this comment...
Tracing the NGLY1 footprints: Insights from Drosophila.

Recessive mutations in human N-glycanase 1 (NGLY1) cause a multisystem disorder with various phenotypes including global developmental delay. One of the models utilized to understand the biology of NGLY1 and the pathophysiology of NGLY1 deficiency is Drosophila melanogaster, a well-established, genetically tractable organism broadly used to study various biological processes and human diseases. Loss of the Drosophila NGLY1 homolog (Pngl) causes a host of phenotypes including developmental delay and lethality. Phenotypic, transcriptomic and genome-wide association analyses on Drosophila have revealed links between NGLY1 and several critical developmental and cellular pathways/processes. Further, repurposing screens of FDA-approved drugs have identified potential candidates to ameliorate some of the Pngl mutant phenotypes. Here, we will summarize the insights gained into the functions of NGLY1 from Drosophila studies. We hope that the current review article will encourage additional studies in Drosophila and other model systems towards establishing a therapeutic strategy for NGLY1 deficiency patients.
Anisotropic thermal-conductivity degradation in the phase-field method accounting for crack directionality

Abstract Dynamic loads applied to metals may lead to brittle or ductile fracture depending on the imposed strain rates, material properties, and specimen geometry. With an increase in the applied velocity, brittle to ductile failure mode transition may also be observed. Furthermore, at high strain rates, ductile fracture may be preceded by shear bands, which are narrow bands of intense plastic deformation, typically accompanied by a significant rise in temperature. Reliable models are needed to predict the response of metals subject to dynamic loads. In particular, capturing the interplay between heat conduction and crack propagation using the phase-field fracture method is still an open research field. To accurately capture the heat transfer physics across crack surfaces, damage models degrading thermal-conductivity are necessary. While isotropic thermal-conductivity degradation models were proposed, they may lead to errors as they are indifferent to crack directionality. In our current work, a new anisotropic approach is proposed in which thermal-conductivity, which depends on the phase-field gradient, is degraded solely across the crack. It is shown that this approach improves the near-field approximation of temperature and heat flux compared with isotropic degradation, when taking the discontinuous crack solutions as reference. Additionally, the anisotropic degradation approach is implemented in a unified dynamic fracture model and a couple of examples demonstrate the viability of this approach.
Alcohol interactions with drugs and chemicals

INTRODUCTION. INORGANICS. CADMIUM. COBALT. HYDROGEN SULFIDE. LEAD. MERCURY. NITROGEN DIOXIDE. ORGANICS. ACETAMINOPHEN. AFLATOXIN. ASPIRIN. Glycine Conjugation. Gastrointestinal Hemmorrhage. BARBITURATES. Possible Mechanisms of the Ethanol-Barbiturate Interaction. Conclusion. BENZENE. BENZO(A)PYRENE. BENZODIAZEPINES. CAFFEINE. CARBON DISULFIDE. CARBON MONOXIDE. CARBON TETRACHLORIDE. Animal Models. Studies with Human Populations. Clinical Studies. Conclusions. CHLORAL HYDRATE. CHLOROFORM. COCAINE. DIMETHYLHYDRAZINE. DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE. DINITROTOLUENE. ETHYLENE GLYCOL AND RELATED AGENTS. ISONIAZID. MENADIONE. METHOMYL. MORPHINE. NITROSAMINES. PESTICIDES. STYRENE. TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL. TOLUENE. TRANQUILIZER COMBINATIONS. 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE. TRICHLOROETHYLENE. VINYL CHLORIDE. VITAMIN A. XYLENE. OTHER: ALDEHYDE DEHYDROGENASE INHIBITORS. SUMMARY.
The association of gender to cardiovascular outcomes after coronary artery revascularization in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Background Inadequate recruitment of women and an exclusion of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in coronary revascularization trials have led to knowledge gaps of gender-based outcomes. Hypothesis Women have equivalent cardiovascular outcomes when compared to men. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study utilizing Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) databases and identified 1015 adults with ESRD who underwent coronary revascularization between 1996 and 2008. We ascertained baseline characteristics, primary (mortality at 5 years) and secondary (myocardial infarction [MI] and repeat revascularization) outcomes from KPNC databases, state death certificates, and Social Security Administration files. A multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association of gender to the prespecified outcomes. Results Men and women were similar in age (P = 0.23). The mean number of baseline comorbidities was higher in women (2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.5-2.9) compared to men (2.3, 95% CI: 2.1-2.4, P = 0.0002). The risk-adjusted odds ratios (OR) of female gender to death at 5 years (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.83-1.52), MI (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.86-1.64), and repeat revascularization (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.70-1.45) were similar to men. Age modified the effect of gender for the primary outcome death (Pinteraction < 0.048), with a trend toward worse outcomes in younger women and improved outcomes in older women. This effect was noted more in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. Conclusions Although the overall relative risk of cardiovascular outcomes after coronary revascularization in ESRD was equivalent between men and women, age had a significant interaction with gender on overall mortality.
Management of Cardiopulmonary and Trauma Resuscitation in the Pediatric Emergency Department

The etiology and management of critical illness and injury in a pediatric emergency department were reviewed to survey the use of cardiopulmonary and trauma resuscitation and to compare these data with the educational content of Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) courses. The emergency department records of 183 patients treated in the cardiopulmonary/trauma resuscitation room of a pediatric emergency department over a 17-month period were reviewed for data on diagnosis, morbidity, presence of apnea or pulselessness, and utilization of several resuscitation skills: intubation, cardioversion, tibial interosseous line placement, and other resuscitation techniques. Apneic and pulseless pediatric patients had poor survival (10.3%), but apneic patients had excellent survival (96.9%). Endotracheal intubation (57.9%), bag-valve-mask ventilation (63.9%), and medications for rapid-sequence induction of anesthesia prior to endotracheal intubation (25.7%) were used frequently. Inasmuch as asystole was the most common rhythm in pulseless patients, cardioversion and defibrillation were rarely used (2.2%). Specialized vascular access techniques, tibial interosseous lines (24.0%), and femoral intravenous lines (19.7%), were used frequently in pediatric patients. The frequent use of airway management skills and the excellent survival of apneic pediatric patients supports the current emphasis on airway management in PALS courses. Cardioversion/defibrillation should receive less emphasis in PALS courses. The frequent use of rapid-sequence induction of anesthesia prior to endotracheal intubation indicates that these techniques might warrant increased emphasis in the training of pediatric emergency department personnel and in PALS courses.
Control of Oxidative Sulfur Metabolism of Chlorobium limicola forma thiosulfatophilum

A metered blend of anaerobic-grade N2, CO2, and H2S gases was introduced into an illuminated, 800-ml liquid volume, continuously stirred tank reactor. The system, described as an anaerobic gas-to-liquid phase fed-batch reactor, was used to investigate the effects of H2S flow rate and light energy on the accumulation of oxidized sulfur compounds formed by the photoautotroph Chlorobium limicola forma thiosulfatophilum during growth. Elemental sulfur was formed and accumulated in stoichiometric quantities when light energy and H2S molar flow rate levels were optimally adjusted in the presence of nonlimiting CO2. Deviation from the optimal H2S and light energy levels resulted in either oxidation of sulfur or complete inhibition of sulfide oxidation. Based on these observations, a model of sulfide and sulfur oxidases electrochemically coupled to the photosynthetic reaction center of Chlorobium spp. is presented. The dynamic deregulation of oxidative pathways may be a mechanism for supplying the photosynthetic reaction center with a continuous source of electrons during periods of varying light and substrate availability, as in pond ecosystems where Chlorobium spp. are found. Possible applications for a sulfide gas removal process are discussed.
Incidence and risk factors of workplace violence on psychiatric staff.

BACKGROUND: A study by Hesketh et al. found that 20% of psychiatric nurses were physically assaulted, 43% were threatened with physical assault, and 55% were verbally assaulted at least once during the equivalent of a single work week. From 2005 through 2009, the U.S. Department of Justice reported that mental health occupations had the second highest average annual rate of workplace violence, 21 violent crimes per 1,000 employed persons aged 16 or older. OBJECTIVE: An evaluation of risk factors associated with patient aggression towards nursing staff at eight locked psychiatric units. PARTICIPANTS: Two-hundred eighty-four nurses in eight acute locked psychiatric units of the Veterans Health Administration throughout the United States between September 2007 and September 2010. METHODS: Rates were calculated by dividing the number of incidents by the total number of hours worked by all nurses, then multiplying by 40 (units of incidents per nurse per 40-hour work week). Risk factors associated with these rates were analyzed using generalized estimating equations with a Poisson model. RESULTS: Combining the data across all hospitals and weeks, the overall rate was 0.60 for verbal aggression incidents and 0.19 for physical aggression, per nurse per week. For physical incidents, the evening shift (3 pm - 11 pm) demonstrated a significantly higher rate of aggression than the day shift (7 am - 3 pm). Weeks that had a case-mix with a higher percentage of patients with personality disorders were significantly associated with a higher risk of verbal and physical aggression. CONCLUSION: Healthcare workers in psychiatric settings are at high risk for aggression from patients. Language: en
Low-Achieving Students: What the Content Teacher Can Do to Help

(1986). Low-Achieving Students: What the Content Teacher Can Do to Help. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 59, No. 5, pp. 228-230.
The nature of hurt feelings: Emotional experience and cognitive appraisals.

A prevailing question in the study of emotion has involved the number and identity of human emotions. Theorists have sliced the emotional pie in a variety of ways, but most fall into one of two camps. Advocates of categorical approaches have identified a relatively small number of “basic” emotions – such as anger, fear, joy, sadness, disgust, and surprise – that cannot be reduced to other, more fundamental states (e.g., Ekman, 1992; Izard, 1991; Plutchik, 1980; Tomkins, 1962). These theorists suggest that all emotional experiences can be defined as mixes, blends, or hybrids of these basic emotions. In contrast, proponents of dimensional models have argued that emotions are not divisible into discrete units. Rather, they suggest that much of the variance in emotional experience can be captured by a small number of primary dimensions. Some theorists endorse two-dimensional models characterized by the valence of the emotion (pleasant vs. unpleasant) and the degree of arousal or activation involved (aroused vs. tranquil; see Larsen & Diener, 1992; Russell, 1980; Watson & Tellegen, 1985). Others suggest that the data are better explained by a three-dimensional model defined by dimensions of valence, potency, and activity (Shaver, Schwartz, Kirson, & O'Conner, 1987).
Actinomycin and Erythropoiesis and the Production of Erythropoietin in Mice

In B6D2F1 female mice a single dose of 10 µg. of actinomycin will suppress normal erythropoiesis. In polycythemic mice 2 µg. is enough to prevent the stimulatory effect of 0.25 A units of erythropoietin. The curves of suppression and recovery versus time support the hypothesis that erythropoietin acts for a short time in an early stage of erythropoiesis; after this early stage developing cells are no longer so sensitive to actinomycin. Recovery, even from repeated doses, is rapid and adequate. Amounts of actinomycin which are adequate to abolish erythropoiesis do not prevent the new appearance of erythropoietin in the plasma of hypoxic mice.
Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Analysis of Retinol and Retinyl Esters in Mouse Serum and Tissues

The ability to measure endogenous metabolites of retinoids (vitamin A and its derivatives) in biological samples is key to understanding the crucial physiological actions of vitamin A. Over the years, many assays and methods have been developed to analyze different retinoids in biological samples. Liquid chromatography is the best analytical technique for routine analysis of these compounds. However, due to their different chemical properties, different retinoid metabolites cannot be accurately separated and quantified in a single chromatographic run. Here, we will describe a reverse-phase HPLC isocratic method that enables extraction, separation, identification, and quantification of all-trans-retinol and different molecular species of retinyl ester with high accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability.
Using an ecosystem model to evaluate fisheries management options to mitigate climate change impacts in western Indian Ocean coral reefs

A coral reef ecosystem simulation model, CAFFEE, was developedto evaluate the effects of fisheries management measures on coral reef ecosystem services and functioning, independently or combined with climate change impacts. As an example of the types of simulations available, we present model outputsfor temporaryfishing closures and the switchingof fishing gears on fish biomass, fisheries yields, and coral recovery after bleaching events.In this case CAFFEE was calibrated to simulate Kenyan coral reef ecosystems and fisheriesbased on long-term observational data sets.The temporary closuresimulationsindicated thathandline fisheries benefited from an increase in total annual catch over time but gill net fisheries did not.Closures in gill net fisheries had less trophic level impacts on hard coral than in handlines and corals recovered faster in the gill net fishery after a simulated bleaching event. Using spearguns or gill nets after bleaching helped coral recovery and promoted greater fisheries yields whereas handlines promoted sea urchins by reducing their predators and reduced coral recovery. Ecosystem models combined with empirical surveys can assist managers in evaluating the effects offisheries management options on ecosystem services where climate change mitigation strategies are required.
Video Endoscopic Approach to the Thoracic Spine

An anterior approach is optimal for many disease processes of the thoracic spine. These approaches have required a posterolateral thoracotomy to access the vertebral bodies or intervertebral disc spaces. This procedure carries with it the same known incisional morbidity of any intrathoracic procedure, making video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical techniques the clear choice in treating diseases of the thoracic spine. All patients sign a consent for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) of the spine with possible open thoracotomy and understand that such will be performed if VATS is unsuccessful.
Mother's pre‐pregnancy BMI is an important determinant of adverse cardiometabolic risk in childhood

Objective Maternal adiposity is associated with poor offspring cardiometabolic health. We aimed to evaluate the relationship of maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on the BMI, body composition and cardiometabolic characteristics of the offspring. Methods Forty offspring of overweight/obese mothers (O-OW) and 28 offspring of normal weight mothers (O-NW) underwent evaluation of body composition, abdominal fat distribution, blood pressure measurement, fasting lipids and an oral glucose tolerance test. The anthropometric and cardiometabolic characteristics of O-OW were compared with those of O-NW, and the relationship to maternal BMI was evaluated. Results Subjects (mean age: 12.6 ± 0.4, female: 52.9%) had similar gestational age, birth weight, age, gender, and Tanner stage. However, O-OW had a significantly higher BMI (24.4 ± 1.2 vs. 19.7 ± 0.8 kg/m2, p = 0.001), % body fat (31.7 ± 1.6 vs. 24.6 ± 1.1%, p < 0.001), visceral fat (41.9 ± 4.7 vs. 26.1 ± 3.9 cm2, p = 0.012) with no difference in lean body mass compared with O-NW. O-OW had lower whole body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI) with an adverse cardiovascular disease risk profile [higher blood pressure (BP), triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio, hs-C-reactive protein (CRP) and lower HDL]. In addition to offspring's %body fat (β = −0.60, p < 0.001), maternal pre-pregnancy BMI (β = −0.19, p = 0.046) contributed significantly and independently to the offspring's WBISI (R2=0.55, p < 0.001). Conclusions High pre-pregnancy BMI is an important contributor to excess adiposity, insulin resistance, and cardiometabolic disease risk in the offspring during childhood.
Spatial and temporal evolution of the photoinitiation rate for thick polymer systems illuminated with polychromatic light

A complete and accurate description of polychromatic photoinitiation in thick systems is presented in which the incident intensity and molar absorptivities of all components may be independently specified at each incident wavelength. The analysis reveals that the photoinitiation rate profile obtained with polychromatic illumination is considerably different from the sum of the monochromatic profiles, and that synergistic coupling of the contributions from multiple wavelengths can lead to both high rates of initiation near the surface and significant initiation deep in the sample. Simulations reveal that the shape and attributes of the aggregate photoinitiation rate profile may change markedly if any of a number of variables are changed, including the relative intensities, the absolute intensity, initiator concentration, and degree of photobleaching. The polychromatic description of photoinitiation presented here can be applied to any combination of monomer, initiator, and light source and may provide an invaluable tool for design of these systems. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Long QT Syndrome-Associated F97C and S141R CaV-3 Mutations Exert Pleiotropic Effects on Cardiac L-Type Calcium Channels

Caveolin-3 (Cav-3) is a critical scaffolding protein essential for caveolae formation. In cardiomyocytes, caveolae serve as important Ca2+ microdomains where several ion channels localize including voltage-gated Na+ and L-type Ca2+ channels (LTTCs). Our previous studies have shown that Long QT Syndrome (LQTS)-associated Cav-3 F97C and S141R mutations increased sodium channel late current, but it is unknown if these mutations impact LTTCs. We co-expressed Cav-3 WT, F97C, or S141R with Cav1.2 + Cavβ2cN4 in HEK 293 cells and measured LTCC currents (ICa,L) using whole-cell perforated patch clamp with 10 mM Ca2+ or 10 mM Ba2+ as the charge carrier. Cav-3 S141R transfected cells showed increased ICa,L peak current density (−13.95±1.86 pA/pF, p<0.05) compared to F97C (−7.59±1.99 pA/pF) and WT (−9.47±2.38 pA/pF). Analysis of ICa,L inactivation shows that Cav-3 F97C (r100: 0.35±0.03) slows inactivation compared to S141R and WT (0.24±0.04 and 0.13±0.03, respectively; p<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in IBa,L current density or inactivation observed between Cav-3 WT, F97C, and S141R. Experiments were also performed in mouse neonatal ventricular myocytes transfected with Cav-3 WT, F97C, or S141R. Cav-3 S141R (−6.98±0.97 pA/pF) increased peak ICa,L current density compared to F97C and WT (−2.62±0.87 and −3.76±0.72 pA/pF, respectively; p<0.05). Analysis of ICa,L inactivation showed that both Cav-F97C and S141R (r75: 0.13±0.02 and 0.13±0.02, respectively, p<0.05) slowed inactivation compared to WT (0.05±0.02). LQT Cav-3 F97C and S141R mutations alter calcium-dependent LTTC function by reducing Ca-dependent inactivation and for S141R increasing current density. In conclusion, these results suggest a newly identified role in which Cav-3 is part of the complex which regulates calcium-dependent inactivation of cardiac LTTCs. Furthermore, the LQT Cav-3 mutations, F97C and S141R, show important gain-of-function effects which will prolong repolarization and contribute to arrhythmogenesis.
The Syndromic versus Laboratory Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Resource-Limited Settings

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, where there is a severe HIV epidemic. Thus, accurate recognition and diagnosis of STIs are essential for successful HIV prevention programs in the region. Due to lack of trained personnel and adequate laboratory infrastructure in the region, information regarding the profile of STIs relies essentially on self-reported or physician-diagnosed symptoms. The main objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the syndromic diagnosis of STIs, which is often used as a proxy for laboratory diagnosis of STIs in sub-Saharan Africa and other resource-limited settings. The study builds on previously collected data from a community-based survey in Northern Tanzania. We found no significant agreements between patient-reported STIs symptoms and laboratory-confirmed STIs tests. The reported STIs symptoms had high specificity (range = 85–99%) and poor sensitivity (range = 2–17%). Knowledge gained from our study will have significant public health implications, and can help improve the syndromic diagnosis of STIs.
The volume adsorption capacity of activated carbon for selected trace contaminants

Abstract By measuring the time-dependent transmission of a trace contaminant gas through an adsorber bed, we obtained the volume adsorption capacity of (Columbia type 4 LXC 12/28) activated carbon at 25.0°C for four trace contaminants (acetaldehyde, ethanol, acetone and freon-113) each selected to represent an important class of organic compounds (i.e. aldehydes, primary alcohols, ketones and halocarbons). The transmission is the ratio of the concentration at the outlet of the adsorber bed to that at the inlet. Each measurement was carried out at a steady inlet concentration of about 100 ppm in helium at a total pressure of one atmosphere. Adsorption capacities at this low concentration can be determined more readily by this dynamic transmission method than by the conventional static method.
Correlates of Viral Richness in Bats (Order Chiroptera)

Historic and contemporary host ecology and evolutionary dynamics have profound impacts on viral diversity, virulence, and associated disease emergence. Bats have been recognized as reservoirs for several emerging viral pathogens, and are unique among mammals in their vagility, potential for long-distance dispersal, and often very large, colonial populations. We investigate the relative influences of host ecology and population genetic structure for predictions of viral richness in relevant reservoir species. We test the hypothesis that host geographic range area, distribution, population genetic structure, migratory behavior, International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) threat status, body mass, and colony size, are associated with known viral richness in bats. We analyze host traits and viral richness in a generalized linear regression model framework, and include a correction for sampling effort and phylogeny. We find evidence that sampling effort, IUCN status, and population genetic structure correlate with observed viral species richness in bats, and that these associations are independent of phylogeny. This study is an important first step in understanding the mechanisms that promote viral richness in reservoir species, and may aid in predicting the emergence of viral zoonoses from bats.
Measurement of gas quantities by liquid displacement.

Derivation of equations relating the different variables involved in gas quantity measurements by liquid displacement from a Mariotte flask. The results are used to elucidate design criteria and operational procedures required for the realization of various degrees of desired accuracy down to 0.01%.
Wrestling with American values: an exploratory investigation of World Wrestling EntertainmentTM as a product-based subculture

Described as the ‘face of American culture’, World Wrestling EntertainmentTM (WWE) events are broadcast in over 162 countries and draw more than 500 million regular viewers. This paper explores the proposition that the WWE fan base represents a product-based subculture in American society. Using a value laddering methodology, shared values of WWE fans are exposed and the proposition of core and unique cultural values is supported. Practitioner and theoretical implications of the results are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
■ REVIEW : Long-Term Modulation of Gene Expression in Epilepsy

Molecular genetics has led to major advances in the study of neurological disease over the last 2 decades. Initial advances were made in understanding specific mutations that were associated with disease, such as epilepsy and other neurological conditions. In addition to specific mutations, recent research has focused on long-lasting or permanent changes in genetic expression as an underlying substrate of acquired diseases such as epilepsy. In symptomatic epilepsy, normal brain tissue is permanently altered and develops spon taneous recurrent seizures. Evidence indicates that long-lasting changes in gene expression at both tran scriptional and post-transcriptional levels are associated with epileptogenesis. The expression of transcription factors and other regulatory proteins represent a molecular mechanism for mediating these changes. Understanding the effects of severe environmental stresses on the multiple sites of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression is likely to prov...
The globalising Chinese business enterprise: the role of strategic fit

To achieve full performance potential in becoming a global business competitor, enterprises in transitioning economies, particularly Chinese business enterprises, must identify and rectify deficiencies in their resources and capabilities. Too often, prescriptive advice on globalisation requirements is given that is too narrowly focused on accommodating the full range and interactive effects of multiple action responses needed. We offer an approach that is useful for considering the range of options for Chinese firms through the lens of multiple response levels, ambient factors, the individual level, the intraorganisational level and the interorganisational level. We argue that the approach allows the identification of deficient resources and capabilities which, upon being remedied, must pass another hurdle of analysis, that of inspecting their potential for misalignment or poor strategic fit. While the approach is especially well-suited to China, the concept may also be suitable for other transitioning environments.
Regression of a dilated cardiomyopathy after radiofrequency ablation of incessant supraventricular tachycardia.

Incessant supraventricular tachycardia has been demonstrated to result in a dilated cardiomyopathy in both animal models and humans. l-3 The phenomenon occurs in the absence of preexisting cardiac abnormalities. Termination of the tachycardia may lead to regression of myocardial dysfunction and normalization of left ventricular volume and systolic function. 1-4 The precise mechanisms responsible for the tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy have not been elucidated. Hypotheses include depletion of myocardial high-energy phosphate stores, altered myocardial sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ion transport,?, 6 abnormalities of myocardial blood flo~,~ and alterations in the myocardial capillary vasculature.8 We present a patient with an incessant supraventricular tachycardia and dilated cardiomyopathy who underwent successful radiofrequency catheter ablation of an atrioventricular nodal reentry pathway and regained normal biventricular volume and systolic function within a 3-week period. A 49-year-old woman with a history of chronic obstructive lung disease arrived at the emergency department in respiratory distress. Three weeks before presentation, the patient underwent a presurgical evaluation for an otolaryngologic procedure. At that time examination revealed an elevated pulse, and an electrocardiogram displayed a supraventricular tachycardia at a rate of 150 beats/min. The patient denied palpitations and reportedly was “asymptomatic,” so ther,apy was not initiated. Ten days later she was reevaluated by her primary care physician and, despite persistence of the tachycardia, continued to be “asymptomatic.” Several laboratory studies were ordered, and the patient was instructed to return in 2 weeks. During the interim, she had progressive dyspnea, orthopnea, and fatigue, and sought medical assistance.
Chemistry of 1,1,1,5,5,5-Hexafluoro-2,4-pentanedione on Si(100)-2×1

The surface chemistry of 1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoro-2,4-pentanedione (hfacH), a hydrogenated form of the most common ligand in metal and metal oxide deposition, on Si(100)-2×1 has been investigated using multiple internal reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (MIR-FTIR), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), thermal desorption mass spectrometry, and computational analysis. The main goal of these studies was to understand if hfacH is a source of fluorine, carbon, and oxygen contamination for a variety of deposition processes where the hfac ligand is involved. In its molecular form, hfacH may potentially have up to 10 isomers including two ketonic and eight enolic forms. One of the enolic forms is shown to be the most stable upon adsorption on a clean Si(100)-2×1 surface at submonolayer coverages at cryogenic temperatures. Even though only the enolic form is present at cryogenic temperatures, at room temperature any of these isomers can exist and all the possibilities of their interaction with the Si(...
Myelin synthesis in vitro: a comparative study of central and peripheral nervous tissue.

— Brain, spinal cord and sciatic nerve from rats at different ages were incubated for 2 h in a medium containing [14C]acetate and [14C]leucine as the precursors for synthesis of lipids and proteins. Myelin was purified from the incubated tissues and the specific and total radioactivites of myelin lipids and protein were determined. The uptake of radioactive precursors decreased with increasing age up to 6 months of postnatal age, the decrease following the same pattern for the three types of myelin. After age 6 months the uptake of the protein and lipid precursors reached a plateau that persisted up to 18 months, the oldest postnatal age studied. The amount of myelin isolated and the total myelin lipids extracted from both the central and peripheral nervous systems increased continuously from age 25 days to 18 months after birth. Consequently we suggest that myelination is a process that continues during the whole life of the rat. The metabolic activity of peripheral nerve myelin was higher than myelin from the CNS at all ages studied. Although myelination in the sciatic nerve begins before that in brain and spinal cord, the three types of myelin apparently reach maturity at the same age. Lecithin exhibited the highest metabolic activity of the individual myelin lipids at all ages in both the central and peripheral nervous system. The metabolic activity of cholesterol in myelin from the 25-day-old rats was similar to that of lecithin but decreased to very low levels in myelin from the 18-month-old rats.
Cantando la codificación cultural: la violencia divina y su función seglar en Las Cantigas de Santa María de Alfonso X

La separacion entre lo seglar y lo sagrado, tan enraizado en la matriz del pensamiento occidental moderno, hace que se relacionen con el mundo de lo divino nociones tales como paz, comprension y de...
Thermal decarboxylation of acetate. Part I. The kinetics and mechanism of reaction in aqueous solution

Abstract In an effort to understand the kinetics of the thermal decarboxylation of acetate and the role of catalysis, a series of laboratory experiments were conducted to measure the rate constants for the decomposition of acetate (acetic acid and sodium acetate) in the presence of titanium, silica, stainless steel, gold, and magnetite. Activation energies for decarboxylation of acetic acid and acetate ion range from about 8 kcal mol −1 in stainless steel vessels to 69 kcal mol −1 in silica tubes. Extrapolated rate constants at 100°C for acetic acid differ by more than fourteen orders of magnitude between the experiments conducted in stainless steel and the catalytically least active titanium vessels. Gold and titanium were the least active catalysts for the acetic acid substrate, while stainless steel, silica, and magnetite showed marked catalytic effects. Methane and carbon dioxide were the predominant reaction products of most of these experiments, although mass spectrometric analyses of the gas phase revealed concentrations of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons (apparent mass range from 29 to 56) amounting to as much as 55 mole percent of the total volatile products, depending on the catalyst. The reactions were generally first order in acetic acid or acetate ion, except for those involving the acid over silica and magnetite which were zero order. These results and the observed effects of variations in surface area are rationalized in terms of changes in the mode of surface catalysis. The mechanistic assignment is simplified by the existence of three unique straight lines on an isokinetic plot ( i.e ., activation enthalpy versus activation entropy) which fit all the respective first- and zeroorder reactions. The results described here provide the nucleus for the discussion in Part II of the role of acetate in the primary migration of methane and the transportation of metals in hydrothermal solutions.
Trait analyses of the Luria-Nebraska intellectual processes, motor functions, and memory scales

Abstract Trait analyses of the Luria-Nebraska's Intellectual Processes, Motor Functions, and Memory Scales were performed using multitrait-multimethod procedures and confirmatory factor analysis. Three measures each of intellectual, motor, and memory functions were administered to 161 neuropsychiatric patients. Intellectual scales (viz., Luria-Nebraska and WAIS-R) were found to have convincing discriminant properties, but motor and memory measures demonstrated visibly less such robustness. Confirmatory factor analyses supported a three-factor model of the 9×9 matrix, in which each of the three Luria-Nebraska scales serves as a marker for the factors. Issues related to the neuropsychological constructs, test construction, and construct validity of measurement procedures employed in clinical neuropsychology are discussed.
Locus of Secondary Image for Two Plane Mirrors Variable Independently about Parallel Axes Situated in the Respective Planes

The present problem, in geometrical optics, deals with a more general case of inclined mirrors than the simpler and familiar ones of the kaleidoscope, the “hinged mirrors,” and the sextant. Here each of the two plane mirrors has its own independent axis in its own plane, the two axes being, however, parallel to each other, which requires that the intersection line of the two reflecting planes be always parallel to the two axes, but it may otherwise be located anywhere in space. The problem is stated so as to involve three parameters, in addition to the two independent variables. The main problem is that of the locus of the secondary image, O″, under these conditions. Derivations are given also for the locus of the primary image, O′, and for the intersection, C, of the mirror planes. From the geometrical standpoint the problem is that of two related isosceles triangles, O′AO, O′A0O″, where O is the object point and A, A0, are the points where the mirror axes cut the principal plane, all five points being coplanar. The problem is made more general physically by supposing that the mirrors are half-silvered. The geometrical situation is expressed also in terms of intersecting circles, useful for graphical construction.
Electrochemical biosensors for monitoring the recognition of glycoprotein–lectin interactions

Abstract Despite the wide applicability and specificity of lectins to carbohydrate moieties, there are few lectin specific biosensors. This is attributed to the difficulty in defining the relevant experimental parameters to measure for sensing. We hereby describe the development of direct and indirect electrochemical sensors to determine the exact trace amounts of probarley lectin (ProBL) and its conversion product wheat germ agglutinin (WGA). In addition to WGA, the antigens (ProBL) employed in this study were over expressed in bacteria, isolated from protein bodies, and purified using immobilized N -acetylglusamine in order to obtain correctly folded active lectins. The amperometric immunosensor uses cell lines producing monoclonal antibody (mAB) to the pro-region of ProBL over expressed from Escherichia coli . The efficacy and sensing characteristics of the lectin were optimized using monoclonal antibody to WGA and the resulting sensor was found to detect only ProBL in the linear range 10 −3 –10 2 μg mL −1 and a detection limit of 10 −3 μg mL −1 .
Does Political Information Matter

Why do some citizens know a lot about politics while others know virtually nothing? The last 20 years of research on this question has been paradoxical. On the one hand, scholars have made notable ...
Workplace Violence against Female Long-haul Truckers

This article describes workplace violence issues experienced by long-haul female truckers in the US. Females comprise between six and ten per cent of long-haul truckers, and their numbers are growing. Data for this study were collected via a self-administered survey using a convenience sample of 51 female long-haul truck drivers at a major truck show. Forty-two per cent of women reported at least one type of workplace violence while working as a long-haul trucker. Sixty-seven per cent had feared for their personal safety while working during the previous year. Measures women take to ensure their safety at work included carrying a weapon, taking a self-defense class, and cautionary tactics regarding where they stopped to refuel and rest. Because women experience workplace violence differently than do men, different interventions need to be developed to ensure a healthy workforce.
Radon from drinking water - evaluation of water-borne transfer into house air.

To determine the transfer of222Rn from domestic water into air, nine houses were measured for222Rnt, house volume, water use and air exchange by SF6 and radon. Measurements were done in Maine during April and May, 1986, when sealed up for the winter. Radon in water concentration ranged from 35,000 to 1,250,000 pCi/l. Air peaks of222Rn ranged from 13 to 200 pCi/l due to a water use burst experiment. Use of water filters was also examined by repeats with filters on and off. Water use ranged from 200 to 1922 litres/day. House volumes ranged from 380 to 999 m3. Air exchange rates measured by SF6 was twice as large as air exchange rate measured by222Rn.