cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detrended Correspondence Analysis of Phytoplankton Abundance and Distribution in Sandusky Bay and Lake Erie

The purpose of this study was to determine if phytoplankton communities in Sandusky Bay were distinct from those of Lake Erie. Samples were taken from 11 sites along a 50 km transect extending from the lower reaches of the Sandusky River, through Sandusky Bay and into the western basin of Lake Erie to identify factors correlated with identifiable patterns in distribution and abundance of summer phytoplankton. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA), an ordination technique used to describe patterns in complex data sets, arranged the sample sites along an ordination axis that explained 76% of the variation in the phytoplankton abundance data matrix, and produced the following sequence of ordination axis scores: Sandusky Bay→ Lake Erie→ Sandusky River. DCA axis I scores strongly correlated with total phosphorus, soluble reactive phosphorus, algal phosphatase activity, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity, and alkalinity, but not chloride concentration, suggesting that phytoplankton abundance and distribution were related to phosphorus availability and not simply due to the passive movement of water along the transect. Bacterial abundance correlated with DCA axis I, suggesting that phytoplankton-bacterial interactions may be important in understanding distributional patterns of Sandusky Bay phytoplankton.
Leading relativistic corrections to the Kompaneets equation

Abstract We calculate the first relativistic corrections to the Kompaneets equation for the evolution of the photon frequency distribution brought about by Compton scattering. The Lorentz invariant Boltzmann equation for electron–photon scattering is first specialized to isotropic electron and photon distributions, the squared scattering amplitude and the energy–momentum conserving delta function are each expanded to order v4/c4, averages over the directions of the electron and photon momenta are then carried out, and finally an integration over the photon energy yields our Fokker–Planck equation. The Kompaneets equation, which involves only first- and second-order derivatives with respect to the photon energy, results from the order v2/c2 terms, while the first relativistic corrections of order v4/c4 introduce third- and fourth-order derivatives. We emphasize that our result holds when neither the electrons nor the photons are in thermal equilibrium; two effective temperatures characterize a general, non-thermal electron distribution. When the electrons are in thermal equilibrium our relativistic Fokker–Planck equation is in complete agreement with the most recent published results, but we both disagree with older work.
A Lactobacillus sp. from diseased female rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri. Richardson, in Newfoundland, Canada.

. Post-spawning mortalities of 2- to 3-year old female rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri Richardson, at a Newfoundland hatchery were studied. The fish were found to have a mixed bacterial infection involving primarily a Lactobacillus sp. (a Gram-positive, chain-forming coccobacillus) and to a lesser degree Enterobacteriaceae, Aeromonas hydrophila and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The bacteria were isolated from the visceral organs, kidney, and ascitic fluid present in the coelomic cavity. The fish had extensive degeneration and necrosis of the liver, spleen and kidney, and sloughing of intestinal epithelium, but whether these were caused directly by the bacterial infection was not established because the fish appeared to have received substantial stress from the mechanical stripping and from the retention of dead, unshed eggs in the coelomic cavity. Tissue sections suggested that substantial growth of the Lactobacillus sp. was occurring within these unshed eggs. The present study describes this unusual observation and compares the Lactobacillus sp. to two other Lactobacillus isolates from cultured trout.
Leukemia inhibitory factor influences the timing of programmed synapse withdrawal from neonatal muscles

We show that leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) plays a physiological role in the programmed withdrawal of synapses form neonatal muscles. First, LIF mRNA is present in embryonic skeletal muscle and is developmentally regulated. We detect high levels of LIF mRNA at embryonic day 17 (E17) in mouse hind leg muscles. The content of LIF mRNA falls 10-fold between E17 and birth and then remains low in the neonate and adult. The decrease in LIF mRNA in skeletal muscle coincides with the end of secondary myogenesis and the completion of the adult number of myofibers. Second, treatment of the mouse tensor fascia latae (TFL), a superficial muscle of the hind leg, with LIF from birth (100 ng/day), transiently delays the withdrawal of excess inputs from polyneuronally innervated myofibers by approximately 3 days. The midpoint of the process is shifted from 7.5 ± 0.5 to 10.2 ± 0.6 days of age. LIF treatment delays synapse withdrawal by altering its timing without an appreciable effect on its rate. Third, in mice homozygous for a distruption of the LIF gene, the midpoint in the reduction of multiply innervated TFL myofibers occurs 1 day earlier, at 6.5 ± 0.5 days of age. Muscle fiber number is unchanged in LIF null mice. Treatment with LIF does not alter the rate of neonatal growth, the number of muscle fibers in the TFL, or the reappearance of inputs that have been eliminated. Instead, LIF appears to delay maturation of the motor unit by transiently delaying the onset of synapse withdrawal. We hypothesize that this is a necessary component of a selective process that will operate simultaneously and equally on multiple, competing motor units. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Plasma separator thruster.

The plasma separator thruster is an advanced concept in ion thruster design which is based on independent operation and optimization of the plasma source and plasma extraction system. The plasma source consists of a propellant feed tube which functions as a hollow cathode. Cesium vapor is fed from the cathode through a simple converging-diverging nozzle, and is ionized by a coaxial discharge between the hollow cathode and a downstream ring anode. The dense plasma is then expanded aerodynamically to a pressure suitable for ion extraction and acceleration. Surface recombination is nearly eliminated by proper nozzle and anode design, and volume recombination is avoided by keeping the electron temperature high in the continuum region. A modified theory of plasma extraction is presented to explain the experimentally observed total extraction of plasma ions. Considerable improvement in efficiency and lifetime is predicted for a fully developed thruster of this type, based on the measured performance of the thruster components. Several complete but unoptimized thruster systems have been operated to demonstrate compatibility of components.
Neuropeptide-Y exerts antidepressant-like effects in the forced swim test in rats.

The effects of neuropeptide-Y were examined in the forced swim model of depression in rats. Following a 15-min preswim, four groups of rats were given three intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of neuropeptide-Y (0.5, 5, or 10 μg) or saline over a 24-h period. Several behaviors were subsequently measured during a 5-min forced swim. Neuropeptide-Y treatment dose dependently increased swimming and decreased immobility. The pattern of results is consistent with that produced by serotonergic antidepressant drugs in this model.
Increased interleukin 5 production in eosinophilic Sézary syndrome: regulation by interferon alfa and interleukin 12.

Abstract Background: Peripheral eosinophilia occurs in a small subpopulation of patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and denotes a poor prognosis. Clinical studies have suggested that the Sezary cell is a T H 2 type helper T cell that produces cytokines that enhance the differentiation and activation of eosinophils. Interferon alfa (IFN-α) and interleukin 12 are effective therapeutic agents for CTCL and other hematologic disorders. Objective: Our purpose was to determine the inhibitory activity of IFN-α and IL-12 on IL-5 production in vitro by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from patients with CTCL and eosinophilia. Methods: Suppression of IL-5 production by IFN-α and IL-12 was assessed by comparing IL-5 production by PBMCs from patients with Sezary syndrome and eosinophilia when cultured alone or in the presence of either IFN-α or IL-12. Results: A marked increase in IL-5 production by PBMCs from patients with Sezary syndrome and eosinophilia was observed. IL-5 production was markedly reduced when PBMCs were exposed to IFN-α or IL-12. Conclusion: These results suggest that IFN-α and perhaps IL-12 may produce a therapeutic response in patients with CTCL and eosinophilia through direct suppression of IL-5 production by malignant Sezary cells. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;44:28-32.)
Autoimmune Phenotype in Refractory Chronic Urticaria Does Not Affect Response to Omalizumab

FEBRUARY 2013 AB30 Abstracts S A T U R D A Y 108 Autoimmune Phenotype in Refractory Chronic Urticaria Does Not Affect Response to Omalizumab Ravi K. Viswanathan,MD, Sameer K. Mathur, MD, PhD, FAAAAI; University ofWisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI. RATIONALE: Omalizumab has been shown to be efficacious in refractory (2-4x H1/H2 +/LTRA +/immunomodulator) chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) patients in numerous reports. However, it remains unknown whether there are specific phenotypes of CIU that are more responsive to omalizumab therapy.We sought to address this by characterizing a series of CIU patients who have undergone omalizumab therapy and their response patterns. METHODS: A retrospective chart-review analysis of CIU patients treated with omalizumab at the University of Wisconsin Allergy Clinic was performed with particular focus on their autoimmune characteristics, response to therapy, and dosing/duration parameters. RESULTS: We analyzed 13 refractory CIU patients (12/13 previously used >5 1 immunomodulator) treated with omalizumab and observed an overall response rate of 92% (11/12, 1 unknown) to its usage. Of these 11 responders, 5 patients (45%) had a complete response and 6 patients (55%) had a partial response. Seven patients were categorized as ‘‘autoimmune’’ (presence of 1 positive autoimmune biomarker) with 3 patients (43%) demonstrating complete response and 4 patients (57%) showing partial response to omalizumab therapy. Among the five patients categorized as ‘‘non-autoimmune", two (40%) reported a complete response, two (40%) had a partial response, and one (20%) had no response. The mean duration of therapy for all patients was 4.83 months with cumulative doses ranging from 300mg every 4 weeks to 600mg every 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Our retrospective analysis suggests that omalizumab appears to demonstrate robust efficacy in refractory CIU patients regardless of their autoimmune status with similar dosing and duration parameters.
An unexpected two-group migration involving a sulfonynamide to nitrile rearrangement. Mechanistic studies of a thermal N --> C tosyl rearrangement.

We report the discovery of the first double-barreled thermal rearrangement of a sulfonynamide and a methoxybenzyl to a nitrile and the first rearrangement of an SO2 group from sulfonamide to ketoimine. The rearrangement occurs under surprisingly mild conditions (onset at 100 °C in the melt).
Mental State Attribution and Body Configuration in Women

Body configuration is a sexually dimorphic trait. In humans, men tend to have high shoulder-to-hip ratios. Women in contrast, often have low waist-to hip ratios (WHR); i.e., narrow waists and broad hips that approximate an hour-glass configuration. Women with low WHR’s are rated as more attractive, healthier, and more fertile. They also tend to have more attractive voices, lose their virginity sooner, and have more sex partners. WHR has also been linked with general cognitive performance. In the present study we expand upon previous research examining the role of WHR in cognition. We hypothesized that more feminine body types, as indexed by a low WHR, would be associated with cognitive measures of the female “brain type,” such as mental state attribution and empathy because both may depend upon the activational effects of estrogens at puberty. We found that women with low waist-to-hip ratios excel at identifying emotional states of other people and show a cognitive style that favors empathizing over systemzing. We suggest this relationship may be a byproduct of greater gluteofemoral fat stores which are high in the essential fatty acids needed to support brain development and cellular functioning. It is interesting to note that our findings suggest lower WHR females, who are more likely to be targeted for dishonest courtship, may be better at identifying disingenuous claims of commitment.
Disaster Communication on the Internet: A Focus on Mobilizing Information

While local television news is the most cited source for seeking news and information, many individuals also report finding their news from the Internet. During a disaster, people need access to accurate information and clear, specific instructions to help them act appropriately. Therefore, it is important to assess the volume and scope of emergency information being disseminated on local television news websites. This study analyzed the content of 293 emergency-related stories on 119 local television news websites. Mobilizing information (MI), information found in news that can cue people to act on preexisting attitudes, also was explored. Results showed that emergency information was present on nearly all (96%) of the sites examined. A majority of news stories focused on natural disasters (52%) and most frequently discussed multiple disasters (e.g., hurricanes and pandemics). Mobilizing information was present in fewer than half of the stories (44%); stories were more likely to contain identificational ...
Stimulation of corticosterone and β-endorphin secretion in the rat by selective 5-HT receptor subtype activation

Abstract Changes in plasma concentrations of corticosterone and β-endorphin (β-END) were determined in male rats after treatment with the selective 5-HT 1A agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) or the non-selective 5-HT agonist 6-chloro-2-(1-piperazinyl)pyrazine (MK-212). The administration of either 8-OH-DPAT or MK-212 increased plasma concentrations of both corticosterone and β-END in a dose-related manner. The corticosterone and β-END responses to 8-OH-DPAT were antagonized by spiperone and (−)-pindolol, both of which have been shown to have high affinity for the 5-HT 1A binding site. In contrast, antagonists which are selective for the 5-HT 2 receptor or non-selective 5-HT antagonists were without effect on the hormone responses to 8-OH-DPAT. The MK-212-induced increase in plasma concentrations of corticosterone and β-END were not affected by treatment with the 5-HT 1A antagonists spiperone and (−)-pindolol. However, the corticosterone and β-END responses to MK-212 were attenuated by the selective 5-HT 2 antagonists ketanserin, ritanserin and altanserin, as well as by the non-selective 5-HT antagonist metergoline. It is concluded that stimulation of either 5-HT 1A or 5-HT 2 receptors results in an activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in the rat.
Zener’s Crack and the M-Integral

In a pair of bonded solids, the interface may block dislocation gliding. The pileup may cause a crack to nucleate either on the interface, or in one of the solids. The model, proposed by Zener half a century ago, has been analyzed in various forms, This note shows that the energy release rate of the crack can be calculated by an application of the M-integral. Both solids are anisotropic, and the interface is flat. The result leads to a discussion of the crack orientation.
An array of insights: application of DNA chip technology in the study of cell biology

The advent of DNA microarray technology has ushered in an era of systems biology whereby researchers can study the transcriptional behavior of thousands of genes in parallel. Advances in manufacturing techniques and informatics, and the availability of several genome sequences have furthered these capabilities to the point where whole-transcriptome studies can be accomplished in yeast, flies and plants, and soon will be possible in mammals. Concomitant with the expanding ability of the technology has been the development of novel techniques and their application towards the study of cellular biology.
Evaluation of candidate diagnostic MicroRNAs in thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy samples

Background: Thyroid cancer diagnosis in the United States has increased by 2.3-folds in the last three decades. Up to 30% of thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) results are inconclusive. S...
Repurchase Agreements and the Law: How Legislative Changes Fueled the Housing Bubble

I examine the recent evolution of the law with respect to repurchase agreements. Repurchase agreements (repo) are short-term debt contracts that were central in the expansion of liquidity during the run-up to the financial crisis. The irresponsible and disruptive lending within the housing market was related to excessive financial institution leverage made possible through repo. A key issue in the law relating to repo is the status of the collateral in the event of bankruptcy of the borrower. I trace the development of this aspect of the law through interpretations of the bankruptcy code by the courts, as well as through legislated changes to the code.
Rhetorical vs. nonrhetorical allo-repetition: The case of Romanian interrogatives

Abstract This article provides a functional description of the main types of Romanian interrogative allo-repetitions, and attempts to place dialogic echoicity into the general perspective of current conversation analysis. In section 2, eight different forms of interrogative allo-repetitions are identified on the basis of their syntactic and intonational patterns, and are further classified into three main functional types: Echo Questions, Rhetorical Questions, and Rhechorical Questions. In section 3, a detailed analysis of each type's discourse function is provided, with the emphasis being placed on the rhetorical values of certain ‘marked’ structures which have not received attention so far. In the fourth section of the article, the three main types of interrogative allo-repetitions are considered from the viewpoint of the turndashtaking system and the adjacency pairs structures with which it is customary to operate in conversation analysis. The conclusion of the study is that echo questions serve a dual purpose in dialogue: they are repair mechanisms, as well as rhetorical devices. From the point of view of the conversation structure, the former are part of an insertion sequence whose main frame is composed of a questiondashanswer pair. From the viewpoint of the turndashtaking system, they select prior speaker as next. By contrast, the latter kind of echo questions represent dispreferred second parts of a three-part structure in which current speaker self-selects as next within his own conversational turn. Rhetorical allo-repetitive questions serve an exclusively rhetorical purpose in dialogue, and represent dispreferred second parts of an adjacency pair whose first part is nondashrhetorical. By contrast, rhechorical questions, which also serve a rhetorical purpose in dialogue, represent dispreferred second parts to an adjacency pair whose first part is rhetorical, or dispreferred third parts of a three-part structure whose first part is nondashrhetorical but its second is. From the view point of the turndashtaking system, rhechorical questions appear to invite the selection of the prior speaker as next, while rhetorical questions, by virtue of their illocutionary point, seem, on the contrary, to discourage such a selection.
Designing optimum carry-skip adders

A method for designing optimum-speed one-level carry-skip adders is described. This method always yields the fastest adders if the assumptions of A. Guyot et al. (1987) hold, that is if the ripple time (a circuit parameter) of a carry signal is a linear function of the number of bit positions that the carry signal propagates through, and if the skip time (another circuit parameter) of a carry signal is a linear function of the number of blocks of bit positions skipped by the signal, or if these two parameters are such mildly nonlinear functions that can be modeled by a linear function without any effect on any of the results obtained. The circuit design method is useful because in device technologies such as 2-AlU CMOS the nonlinearities are often insignificant. The present results are compared with those of Guyot et al. as well as with the results of V.G. Oklobdzija and E.R. Barnes (1985). >
VEGETATION-INDEX MODELS PREDICT AREAS VULNERABLE TO PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE (LYTHRUM SALICARIA) INVASION IN KANSAS

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) constitutes an invasive species detrimental to wetland habitats in North America. To estimate areas vulnerable to it in Kansas, we modeled the potential geographic distribution of the species by using current records in the state, remotely sensed vegetation- index data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS), and the Genetic Algorithm for Rule-Set Prediction (GARP). Models built using only localities from northeastern Kansas (the origin of invasion within the state) consistently predicted test localities in other parts of the state with negligible omission. An additional analysis using records from all counties where the species is known showed a similar prediction. All models indicated suitable conditions for purple loosestrife in much of eastern and central Kansas, as well as in riverine and irrigated areas in the western part of the state. The approach presented here might prove useful for assessing the regional colonization potential of other newly detected invasive species before other studies can be undertaken.
Radiation and Dissipation of Internal Waves Generated by Geostrophic Motions Impinging on Small-Scale Topography: Theory

Abstract Observations and inverse models suggest that small-scale turbulent mixing is enhanced in the Southern Ocean in regions above rough topography. The enhancement extends O(1) km above the topography, suggesting that mixing is supported by the breaking of gravity waves radiated from the ocean bottom. In this study, it is shown that the observed mixing rates can be sustained by internal waves generated by geostrophic motions flowing over bottom topography. Weakly nonlinear theory is used to describe the internal wave generation and the feedback of the waves on the zonally averaged flow. Vigorous inertial oscillations are driven at the ocean bottom by waves generated at steep topography. The wave radiation and dissipation at equilibrium is therefore the result of both geostrophic flow and inertial oscillations differing substantially from the classical lee-wave problem. The theoretical predictions are tested versus two-dimensional high-resolution numerical simulations with parameters representative of ...
Contour-mode film bulk acoustic resonator for monitoring blood coagulation in real-time

We report a MEMS contour-mode film bulk acoustic resonator (C-FBAR) to monitor whole blood coagulation in-vitro in real time. The C-FBAR has a suspended ring of piezoelectric aluminum nitride excited in the radial-extensional mode. It operates at its resonant frequency of 150 MHz and possesses a quality factor (Q) of 140 in water. The C-FBAR is characterized using aqueous glycerine solutions showing that it accurately measures the viscosity in the range of 1 to 10 centipoises. The C-FBAR, then, is used to monitor blood coagulation in-vitro in real time. The resonant frequency decreases as viscosity of the blood increases during the fibrin creation after the coagulation cascade. The coagulation time and the start/end of the fibrin creation are determined, suggesting the C-FBAR as a potentially low-cost, portable tool for hemostasis diagnostics.
Application of Modern Relays to Dual-Breaker Line Terminals

This paper discusses several protection and control aspects in relation to dual-breaker line terminals. First, breaker failure and reclosing functions are discussed as applied to dual-breaker configurations. Second, the paper talks about protection security as related to saturation of current transformers (CTs) under fault currents flowing locally through the two breakers. New generation of microprocessor-based line relays support dual CT inputs to monitor both breakers individually, and three voltage points to provide for the main line protection, and synchrocheck across both breakers. The paper points to advantages and disadvantages of integration protection, and provides some guidance regarding dual-breaker line applications
Design of bend-and-sweep compliant mechanism for passive shape change

Contact aided compliant mechanisms are a class of compliant mechanisms where parts of the mechanism come into contact with one another during motion. Such mechanisms can have nonlinear stiffness, cause stress-relief, or generate non-smooth paths. New contact aided compliant mechanisms called bend-and-sweep compliant mechanisms are presented in this paper. These bend-and-sweep mechanisms are made up of compliant joints which are alternately located in two orthogonal directions, and they also exhibit nonlinear stiffness in two orthogonal directions. The stiffness properties of these mechanisms, in each direction, can be tailored by varying the geometry of the compliant joints. One application of these mechanisms is in the passive wing morphing of flapping wing UAVs or ornithopters. A design study is conducted to understand the effect of hinge geometry on the deflections and maximum von Mises stress during upstroke and downstroke. It is shown that the bend-and-sweep compliant elements deflect as desired in both the bending and sweep directions.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
3D painting on scanned surfaces

We present an intuitive interface for painting on unparameterized three-dimensional polygon meshes using a 6D Polhemus space tracker as an input device. Given a physical object we first acquire its surface geometry using a Cyberware scanner. We then treat the sensor of the space tracker as a paintbrush. As we move the sensor over the surface of the physcial object we color the corresponding locations on the scanned mesh. The physical object provides a natural force-feedback guide for painting on the mesh, making it intuitive and easy to accurately place color on the mesh.
Exhumations: The Search for the Dead and the Resurgence of the Uncanny in Contemporary Spain

Summary This essay examines the efforts in Spain that began in the year 2000 to recover and identify the bodies buried in mass graves from the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) and the immediate postwar period, with a particular focus on the failed search to recover the remains of Federico Garcia Lorca. The essay critically analyzes the public and academic discourse surrounding the exhumations, paying particular attention to the notion of the “recovery of memory” and how such recovery is understood to allow for both personal and national closure from trauma. As a counterpoint to the concept of recovery, this essay makes recourse to the uncanny in order to provide an alternative way of understanding the memories that surface in the context of exhumations and move beyond therapeutic discourse to open up a critical space for examining the place of the dead in contemporary Spain.
Immunosuppressive treatment for myocarditis and borderline myocarditis in children with ventricular ectopic rhythm.

OBJECTIVES--To ascertain the responsiveness to immunosuppressive treatment of myocarditis and borderline myocarditis in children with ventricular ectopic rhythm (that is, all ventricular arrhythmia except benign premature ventricular contractions). To determine the impact of the diagnostic information provided by an endomyocardial biopsy specimen in these patients. BACKGROUND--The therapeutic value of performing an endomyocardial biopsy in children with ventricular ectopic rhythm is not established. In turn, the treatment of myocarditis with immunosuppressive drugs is also controversial. METHODS--The case notes and endomyocardial biopsy findings of all children with ventricular ectopic rhythm and a biopsy diagnosis of myocarditis were reviewed. RESULTS--Ten (14%) of 69 patients with ventricular ectopic rhythm and an anatomically normal heart had histological evidence of myocarditis or borderline myocarditis. Eight patients received corticosteroids and efficacy was judged by regular 24 hour Holter monitoring. Total resolution of arrhythmia was seen in four, improvement in two, and no change in two patients. At follow up (8-39 months, mean 22 months), arrhythmia recurrence was seen in the two patients who showed an improvement but not resolution during treatment. Both received azathioprine with further reduction in ectopy rates. Patients who responded to treatment were symptomatic (six of six patients) at presentation compared with those who did not respond to treatment (none of two patients) who were not symptomatic. Five patients had a repeat biopsy specimen taken which confirmed histological improvement. CONCLUSIONS--Steroid treatment seems to benefit a subset of children with ventricular ectopic rhythm and a biopsy diagnosis of myocarditis or borderline myocarditis. Because it can identify a treatable cause for the ventricular arrhythmia, endomyocardial biopsy is a valuable investigation in these patients.
Replication of a Gene–Environment Interaction Via Multimodel Inference: Additive-Genetic Variance in Adolescents’ General Cognitive Ability Increases with Family-of-Origin Socioeconomic Status

The present study of general cognitive ability attempts to replicate and extend previous investigations of a biometric moderator, family-of-origin socioeconomic status (SES), in a sample of 2,494 pairs of adolescent twins, non-twin biological siblings, and adoptive siblings assessed with individually administered IQ tests. We hypothesized that SES would covary positively with additive-genetic variance and negatively with shared-environmental variance. Important potential confounds unaddressed in some past studies, such as twin-specific effects, assortative mating, and differential heritability by trait level, were found to be negligible. In our main analysis, we compared models by their sample-size corrected AIC, and base our statistical inference on model-averaged point estimates and standard errors. Additive-genetic variance increased with SES—an effect that was statistically significant and robust to model specification. We found no evidence that SES moderated shared-environmental influence. We attempt to explain the inconsistent replication record of these effects, and provide suggestions for future research.
The structure of the base of the outer core inferred from seismic waves diffracted around the inner core

[1] We systematically searched for seismograms of waves diffracted around the inner core (PKPCdiff) from all the temporary seismic arrays with data currently available at the IRIS DMC, as well as some permanent regional seismic arrays including F-NET in Japan and GRF in Germany, to assemble the largest high-quality PKPCdiff database ever created. PKPCdiff waves preferentially sample the base of the outer core and so contain important clues about Earth structure in this region. We measured PKPDF–PKPCdiff differential traveltimes and PKPCdiff/PKPDF amplitude ratios in the distance range of 154°–160° and modeled the observations using grid searches and full wave theory synthetic seismograms. The optimum model found by fitting the differential traveltimes has relatively low velocity at the base of the outer core as in AK135, which is consistent with many previous traveltime studies. However, the optimum model found by fitting the amplitude ratios (PKPCdiff/PKPDF) does not exhibit this feature, and instead is closer to PREM. The discrepancy may be explained by two likely causes. One is that small-scale topography or roughness on the ICB tends to scatter energy away from PKPCdiff waves by generating trailing coda waves. The other is that there exists a thin layer with relatively low Q at the base of the outer core. This might be expected if there are suspended solid particles at the base of the outer core, as proposed decades ago. Both mechanisms could generate smaller PKPCdiff amplitudes without significantly affecting PKPCdiff traveltimes.
Differential Effects of Moderate Alcohol Consumption on Performance Among Older and Younger Adults

Background Studies exploring differential effects of acute alcohol consumption on younger and older adults are lacking within the field of alcohol research, especially those using moderate doses. Previous studies addressing this question have tended to use complex behavioral tasks too broad to isolate specific neurocognitive processes affected by both alcohol and aging. Compromises in cognitive efficiency (i.e. the ability to respond both quickly and accurately) have previously been identified in both elderly and acutely intoxicated individuals.
Introduction to web services architecture

This paper introduces the major components of, and standards associated with, the Web services architecture. The different roles associated with the Web services architecture and the programming stack for Web services are described. The architectural elements of Web services are then related to a real-world business scenario in order to illustrate how the Web services approach helps solve real business problems.
Magneto-optical Trap for Polar Molecules

We propose a method for laser cooling and trapping a substantial class of polar molecules and, in particular, titanium (II) oxide (TiO). This method uses pulsed electric fields to nonadiabatically remix the ground-state magnetic sublevels of the molecule, allowing one to build a magneto-optical trap based on a quasicycling ${J}^{\ensuremath{'}}={J}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{-}1$ transition. Monte Carlo simulations of this electrostatically remixed magneto-optical trap demonstrate the feasibility of cooling TiO to a temperature of $10\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$ and trapping it with a radiation-pumping-limited lifetime on the order of 80 ms.
Cervical cone biopsies with the use of a solution of vasopressin and oxidized gauze packing.

Abstract A surgical technique for cone biopsy of the cervix with the use of a dilute solution of vasopressin ∗ ∗Pitressin, Parke, Davis & Co., Detroit, Michigan. and an oxidized gauze pack † †Oxycel, Parke, Davis & Co. is presented. Sixty procedures with this method are compared with 51 procedures performed by other methods. The results indicate the vasopressin-oxidized gauze pack technique to be a safe, effective, relatively bloodless method for obtaining an adequate pathologic specimen from the cervix uteri.
Toxin Synthesis by Clostridium difficile Is Regulated through Quorum Signaling

ABSTRACT Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is dramatically increasing as a cause of antibiotic- and hospital-associated diarrhea worldwide. C. difficile, a multidrug-resistant pathogen, flourishes in the colon after the gut microbiota has been altered by antibiotic therapy. Consequently, it produces toxins A and B that directly cause disease. Despite the enormous public health problem posed by this pathogen, the molecular mechanisms that regulate production of the toxins, which are directly responsible for disease, remained largely unknown until now. Here, we show that C. difficile toxin synthesis is regulated by an accessory gene regulator quorum-signaling system, which is mediated through a small ( IMPORTANCE Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is the most common definable cause of hospital-acquired and antibiotic-associated diarrhea in the United States, with the total cost of treatment estimated between 1 and 4.8 billion U.S. dollars annually. C. difficile, a Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobe, flourishes in the colon after the gut microbiota has been altered by antibiotic therapy. As a result, there is an urgent need for non-antibiotic CDI treatments that preserve the colonic microbiota. C. difficile produces toxins A and B, which are directly responsible for disease. Here, we report that C. difficile regulates its toxin synthesis by quorum signaling, in which a novel signaling peptide activates transcription of the disease-causing toxin genes. This finding provides new therapeutic targets to be harnessed for novel nonantibiotic therapy for C. difficile infections.
Chromosomal excision of TCRδ chain genes is dispensable for αβ T cell lineage commitment

TCRb, d and c chain genes are assembled and expressed in double-negative thymocytes prior to ab or cd T cell lineage commitment. Thus, cells committed to the ab T cell lineage can possess completely assembled TCRd and/or TCRc chain genes. However, these genes are not expressed. TCRc chain gene expression may be silenced through the activity of a cis-acting silencer element. In the TCRa/d locus, the TCRd genes lie between the Va and Ja gene segments, which rearrange by deletion. Moreover, Va to Ja rearrangements occur on both alleles in essentially all developing ab T cells. Consequently, both TCRd chain genes are excised from the chromosome and placed on extrachromosomal circles in mature ab T cells. It has been proposed that this excision process is important for silencing TCRd gene expression and permitting ab T cell lineage commitment. A gene-targeting Cre–loxP strategy was used to invert a 75-kb region of the TCRa/d locus encompassing all the Ja gene segments, generating the TCRa/d I allele. Initial Va to Ja rearrangements on the TCRa/d I allele occur by inversion, resulting in chromosomal retention of TCRd chain genes. These TCRd chain genes can be productively rearranged and are expressed at levels similar to TCRd chain genes in cd T cells. However, ab T cell development appears unperturbed in TCRa/d I/I mice. Thus, excision of TCRd genes from the chromosome per se is not required for commitment of developing lymphocytes to the ab T cell lineage.
The effect of donor-acceptor interactions on the mechanical properties of wood

This paper explores the empirical correlations between the mechanical properties of solvent-treated wood and solvent parameters. Wood beams (10 inch x 0.7 inch x 0.4 inch) of lauan, birch, and Douglas fir were soaked in five solvents (benzene, dioxane, methanol, dimethyl sulfoxide, and distilled water) for 4 months at room temperature (23°C) and then mechanically tested in bending. The acoustic emission (AE) energy (related to failure energy), the modulus of rupture (MOR), and the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of the specimens were determined. It was found that all of these properties of the specimens decreased with the solvent strength parameter which was related to acceptor number (AN), donor number (DN) and molecular volume (MV ). The linear correlation of the AE energy of the specimens with the solvent parameter (AN + DN)1/2 was verified. Alternative relationships between the AE energy, MOR or NIOE of the specimens and the modified solvent strength parameters, 2.5 DN + AN or DN/MV1/3, were explored. The...
Changes in racial-ethnic disparities in use and adequacy of mental health care in the United States, 1990–2003.

Objective:This study examined changes in white-black and white-Latino disparities in the use of any mental health care and minimally adequate mental health care. Methods:Using data from the 1990–1992 National Comorbidity Survey (NCS) and the 2001–2003 National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), this study examined changes by race-ethnicity in use of mental health care among individuals age 18 to 54 with a 12-month mood or anxiety disorder. The sample consisted of 1,198 NCS respondents and 929 NCS-R respondents. Changes in disparities were estimated in the use of any mental health care in the general medical sector, the specialty mental health sector, and in total. Changes in disparities were also estimated in the use of minimally adequate mental health care (in total only). Results:Disparities in the use of any mental health care increased over time, particularly between non-Latino whites and non-Latino blacks in the general medical sector and between non-Latino whites and Latinos in ...
Limb-threatening Deep Venous Thrombosis Complicating Warfarin Reversal with Three-factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate: A Case Report.

Abstract Background Three- and four-factor prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) are gaining popularity for acute reversal of vitamin K antagonist-associated bleeding. Although acute thrombosis after PCC administration has been described, it seems to be rare. Case Report An 83-year-old woman on warfarin for history of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) presented to the Emergency Department with life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding, requiring urgent PCC administration. After stabilization, she subsequently developed a new limb-threatening upper-extremity DVT. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? As PCC therapy gains popularity for reversal of anticoagulant-induced bleeding in urgent bleeding scenarios, the emergency physician must be aware of the complications of PCC administration, including new limb-threatening DVT.
The Miller Ratio: Is It Really This Simple?

The implication of the study of the Miller Ratio (MR), given the simplicity of its computation, is the possibility of the MR being both a beneficial and easy to use tool for practitioners and regulators to detect for the possibility of earnings management (EM). The previously studied models, particularly the Modified Jones Model (MJM), were not designed to be utilized on a case-by-case basis since they were studied using large samples of firms in an attempt to make generalized statements about the effectiveness of the models. The MR, designed to be utilized on a case-by-case basis, is easily computed. If corporate managers become aware of this simple, easy-to-use tool to detect EM, they may be more cautious about engaging in this activity. Essentially, the MR could assist practitioners and regulators in prioritizing their work load of companies to analyze. It can be another tool in their arsenal to assist them in their regulatory and auditing duties. The simplicity and benefit of the MR is discussed in this study.
SITE CHARACTERISTICS OF DEBRIS FLOWS AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO ALPINE TREELINE

Over 150 debris flows in eastern Glacier National Park, Montana, were mapped from a combination of aerial photograph analysis and fieldwork, and categorized as to site characteristics that are suggestive of causal processes. The debris-flow sites were digitized and entered into an integrated geographic information system for subsequent analysis. Principal components analysis was carried out to assess which terrain characteristics exert the most influence over debris-flow location. The greatest number of mapped debris flows were debris torrents occurring within the confines of snow-avalanche paths, followed by snow-patch debris flows, debris torrents unassociated with snow-avalanche paths, and moraine debris flows. Elevation, snow potential, and snow distribution exerted the greatest control over debris-flow location. The impact of debris flows into the alpine treeline ecotone was especially pronounced in two valleys, but debris flows act to depress treeline below its climatic optimum throughout the valley...
Is there an added value of a hepatobiliary phase with gadoxetate disodium following conventional MRI with an extracellular gadolinium agent in a single imaging session for detection of primary hepatic malignancies

To determine added value of hepatobiliary phase (HBP) using gadoxetate disodium compared to MRI with extracellular gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) for detection of primary hepatic malignancies in a single imaging session. IRB approved this HIPAA compliant retrospective study. Within 90 days of resection or liver transplant, thirty patients underwent MRI with extracellular GBCA followed by separate injection of gadoxetate for HBP. Two sets of images were reviewed: Set #1—unenhanced and enhanced images with an extracellular GBCA and set #2—with addition of HBP. Data were analyzed in two groups, cases with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) only and cases with either HCC and/or cholangiocarcinoma. Observer diagnostic accuracy (Az), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated. 14/30 subjects had HCC (46%, CI 28–66%), 2/30 (2%, CI 1–22%) cholangiocarcinoma, and 14/30 (46%, CI 28–66%) no malignancy. There was no significant change in A z value with addition of gadoxetate in the detection of HCC (range 0.84–0.97 set #1 and 0.85–0.97 set #2, p > 0.05). Sensitivity and specificity showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the image sets for all readers. When stratified by lesion size, there was no significant difference in accuracy, sensitivity, or specificity for any reader (p > 0.05). When compared to extracellular GBCA, gadoxetate HBP imaging does not result in a significant difference in accuracy or sensitivity in diagnosis of HCC or cholangiocarcinoma and may result in a decrease in specificity.
Learning to Navigate the New World: Korean-Immigrant Parental Expectations and Challenges in the United States

abstractKorean-American immigrant parents participated in one of four focus groups addressing their parental expectations and challenges. While Korean-immigrant parents differed in level of identification with U.S. culture, they retained much of their Korean cultural identities. Findings demonstrate the complex nature of parental expectations and challenges. Challenges went beyond the obvious difficulties with a new language, as feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness were prevalent. There were concerns about cultural differences, a lack of knowledge about those differences, and how they might negotiate important life venues. Community practitioners need to learn culturally competent ways of implementing services to this population.
Geographic Patterns of Mitochondrial-DNA Variation in Collared Peccaries

We investigated variation in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of 84 collared peccaries ( Tayas-su tajacu ) from Arizona and four peccaries from Texas using 12 restriction enzymes to determine the geographic pattern of variation in this social, relatively recent immigrant to Arizona. Three mtDNA haplotypes were present in the sample from Arizona, and sequence divergence estimates among these ranged from 0.2 to 0.8%. The frequencies of these three haplotypes differed significantly across geographic regions, indicating some partitioning of mtDNA haplotypes. Analysis of these data suggests that Arizona was colonized by at least three mtDNA lineages, most likely originating in Mexico. We hypothesize that founding events at the edge of the peccary's expanding range led to the initial partitioning of haplotypes observed in samples from Arizona.