A distinct neurogenomic response to a trade-off between social challenge and opportunity in male sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus).

Animals frequently make adaptive decisions about what to prioritize when faced with multiple, competing demands simultaneously. However, the proximate mechanisms of decision-making in the face of competing demands are not well understood. We explored this question using brain transcriptomics in a classic model system: threespined sticklebacks, where males face conflict between courtship and territorial defence. We characterized the behaviour and brain gene expression profiles of males confronted by a trade-off between courtship and territorial defence by comparing them to males not confronted by this trade-off. When faced with the trade-off, males behaviourally prioritized defence over courtship, and this decision was reflected in their brain gene expression profiles. A distinct set of genes and biological processes was recruited in the brain when males faced a trade-off and these responses were largely non-overlapping across two brain regions. Combined, these results raise new questions about the interplay between the neural and molecular mechanisms involved in decision-making.

Atmospheric pressure effects on the calibration constant of alpha-track radon detectors.

Accurate determination of the calibration constant is essential for the reliable determination of indoor radon air concentrations using alpha-track detectors. One possible source of error in the application of this method of radon assay is an effect of air density on the calibration factor. Such an effect, if present, could contribute to systematic errors in radon measurements where the calibration facility and the location measured were at different altitudes above sea level. To investigate this question, cellulose nitrate alpha-track detectors were exposed to known air concentrations of 222Rn over a range of air pressure in a systematic study of the effect of simulated altitude on the calibration constant (track density)/(integrated radon exposure). The values obtained for the calibration constant at known air-pressure values were used to establish correction factors as a function of equivalent altitude for this alpha-track method of radon assay. This correction may then be applied to compensate for the effect of altitude on radon-in-air determinations by this method. Altitude effects were evaluated for two detector configurations (the closed-can geometry and the open, or bare-detector geometry). The calibration constants (tracks cm-2) (kBq h m-3)-1 obtained exhibit an inverse relationship with air pressure (i.e., vary directly with altitude). The results indicate (as an example) that for an increase in altitude of approximately 1,000 m above sea level, the calibration constant for Kodak LR 115 II detectors increases by 28% for the closed-can geometry. For an altitude of 1,500 m above sea level, the calibration constant increases by 41% for closed detectors and by 63% for the open (bare) detectors.

Taking care of body, mind, & spirit.

AIDS: Caregivers, family, and friends of people living with HIV often focus on how HIV impacts the infected, while neglecting themselves. Prayer, meditation, and conversations with supportive religious leaders may help caregivers address and understand their spiritual issues. By addressing their own spiritual needs and recovery issues, caregivers may become better able to provide support to the people in their lives who are living with HIV. Contact information is provided.^ieng

Religion, spirituality, & AIDS.

AIDS: Although some conservative religious groups continue to oppose AIDS funding and programs on moral grounds, most religious groups today provide support and educational programs for people with HIV and AIDS. In rural communities, the church is frequently the major source of social services to the community, and many offer practical and spiritual support for HIV-positive people in their communities. A resource list of nationally-based faith organizations for referrals and support is included.^ieng