cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hot extremes have become drier in the United States Southwest

The impacts of summer heat extremes are mediated by humidity. Increases in temperatures due to human-caused climate change are generally expected to increase specific humidity; however, it remains unclear how humidity extremes may change, especially in climatologically dry (low-humidity) regions. Here we show that specific humidity on dry days during summer (defined here as July–September) has decreased over the past seven decades in the United States Southwest, and that the greatest decreases co-occur with the hottest temperatures. Hot, dry summers have anomalously low evapotranspiration that is linked to low summer soil moisture. The recent decrease in summer soil moisture is explained by declines in June soil moisture, whereas the interannual variability is controlled by summer precipitation. Future projections of hot, dry days in the Southwest are uncertain due to the large spread in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) trends in soil moisture and precipitation through 2100. Global humidity increases with warming, but the United States Southwest has shown summer decreases since 1950, with the largest declines on hot days attributed to decreased soil moisture, not atmospheric moisture transport. Projections are uncertain due to model spread in precipitation trends.
The Dissolution or Growth of a Gas Bubble Inside a Drop in Zero Gravity

The radius-time history of a gas bubble located concentrically within a spherical liquid drop in a space laboratory is analyzed within the framework of the quasistationary approximation. Illustrative results are calculated from the theory which demonstrate interesting qualitative features. For instance, when a pure gas bubble dissolves within a liquid drop in an environment containing the same gas and some inert species, the dissolution can be more or less rapid than that in an unbounded liquid depending on the initial relative size of the drop. Further, given a similar growth situation, indefinite growth is not possible, and the bubble will initially grow, but always dissolve in the end.
High safety and cycling stability of ultrahigh energy lithium ion batteries

Summary High-nickel layered oxide Li-ion batteries (LIBs) dominate the electric vehicle market, but their potentially poor safety and thermal stability remain a public concern. Here, we show that an ultrahigh-energy LIB (292 Wh kg−1) becomes intrinsically safer when a small amount of triallyl phosphate (TAP) is added to standard electrolytes. TAP passivates the electrode-electrolyte interfaces and limits the maximum cell temperature during nail penetration to 55°C versus complete cell destruction (>950°C) without TAP. The downside of this reliable safety solution is higher interfacial impedance and hence lower battery power; however, thermal modulation for battery operation around 60°C can restore power completely. When cycled at 60°C, the cell stabilized with TAP achieved 2,413 cycles at 76% capacity retention. Such an unconventional combination of interface-passivating electrolyte additive with cell thermal modulation renders the most energy-dense LIBs even safer than LiFePO4 chemistry, while enjoying high power and cycling stability concurrently.
CXC chemokines mechanism of action in regulating tumor angiogenesis.

The CXC chemokines have recently been identified as a family of molecules which can regulate angiogenesis. Members of this family which contain the amino acid motif Glu–Leu–Arg in their amino terminus (ELR+) act as angiogenic factors, while ELR− members act as angiostatic molecules. The balance of these angiogenic versus angiostatic factors is critical in regulating homeostasis. As we detail in this review, there is increasing evidence from a variety of tumor model systems to suggest that the angiogenic members of this family and their receptors may be playing an important role in the neovascular pathology of solid tumors. In contrast, the angiostatic effects of the ELR−; family members may provide novel therapeutic strategies for treating many tumors.
A Sec7-related protein in Paramecium

We have cloned and sequenced a SEC7-related gene in Paramecium tetraurelia that contains an open reading frame for 1135 amino acids encoding a 133 kDa protein, PSec7. Sec7, first identified in vesi...
Randomized polynomials, threshold circuits, and the polynomial hierarchy

A randomized polynomial over the integers is a multivariate polynomial whose coefficients are integer-valued random variables. A randomized polynomial uses m random bits if its coefficients jointly depend on m independently and uniformly distributed random bits. We show that every Boolean function family in AC0 can be computed with small error by randomized polynomials over the integers that have degree (log n)O(1) and use (log n)O(1) random bits. Applying this result, we further show the following: (a) Every Boolean function family in AC0 is computable by depth-two probabilistic threshold circuits of size \(n^{(\log n)^{O(1)} }\) with one-sided error and is also computable by depth-three deterministic threshold circuits with linear number of threshold gates and \(n^{(\log n)^{O(1)} }\)AND gates. (b) Every language in the polynomial hierarchy is reducible to some language in the class PP (in fact, to some language in the class C=P) by a randomized polynomial-time reduction with one-sided error.
Big Data Analytics: The Case of Social Security Administration

Public agencies are investing significant resources in big data analytics to mine valuable information, predict future outcomes, and make data-driven decisions. In order to foster a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with the adoption of big data analytics in the public sphere, we analyze various efforts undertaken by the United States Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA, which is commonly referred to as the ‘face of the government,’ collects, manages, and curates large volumes of data to provide social security services to US citizens and beneficiaries living abroad. The agency has made great strides in the burgeoning big data space to improve administration and delivery of services. This has included: (1) improving their arcane legacy system, (2) developing employee and end-user capability, (3) implementing data management strategies and organizational architecture, (4) managing security and privacy issues, and (5) advocating for increased investment in big data analytics. Despite these efforts, the SSA is still in the early stages of developing capability in the domain of big data analytics. By outlining challenges and opportunities faced the SSA, we discuss policy implications and explore issues to consider when public agencies begin to develop the capacity to analyze big data.
The application of a diatom-based transfer function to evaluate regional water-quality trends in Minnesota since 1970

Significant population growth over the last three decades, as well as efforts to improve surface-water quality mandated by the Clean Water Act, potentially have had opposing influences on aquatic ecosystems in the U.S. Because historical data on water-quality trends are limited over this time period, we developed a diatom-based transfer function to reconstruct chloride, color, acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), total phosphorus (TP), and pH in 55 Minnesota lakes. The lakes span three different ecoregions, as well as the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and differ in their history of settlement and land use, and in surficial geology, climate, and vegetation. Lakes in the Northern Lakes and Forest ecoregion are nearly pristine, whereas those in the other regions likely are strongly affected by urban or agricultural pollutants. Reconstructions of water-chemistry trends since 1970 suggest that recent human activities have had substantial impacts in both urban and rural areas. Chloride concentrations have increased in many Metro lakes, which may be due to road salts, and phosphorus levels have been steady or rising in agricultural regions. The majority of Metro lakes show some decline in TP, although many of the changes are not statistically significant based on our reconstruction techniques. There is no evidence that atmospheric deposition of sulfate or nitrate has caused acidification or changes in trophic state for remote lakes in the northeastern part of the state.
Collection Development Headaches and Fee-Based Online Resources from Russia

Abstract This article, a follow-up to an earlier one, deals with problems involved in choosing among the competing fee-based Russian language full-text services. Each of the products covers the same core set of online news sources, but most also offer additional features or kinds of files. Each also seems intended for a different target audience, a factor that is important to understand. Vendor responsiveness to suggestions varies as well. A final issue to consider is access to the material several decades in the future.
Integration of Dynamic Models in Range Operations

This work addresses the various model interactions in real-time to make an efficient internet based decision making tool for Shuttle launch. The decision making tool depends on the launch commit criteria coupled with physical models. Dynamic interaction between a wide variety of simulation applications and techniques, embedded algorithms, and data visualizations are needed to exploit the full potential of modeling and simulation. This paper also discusses in depth details of web based 3-D graphics and applications to range safety. The advantages of this dynamic model integration are secure accessibility and distribution of real time information to other NASA centers.
Screening for elder mistreatment in dental and medical clinics

doi: 10.1111/j.1741-2358.2010.00405.x Screening for elder mistreatment in dental and medical clinics Objective: Elder mistreatment (EM) is a potentially fatal and largely unrecognised problem in the United States. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of EM in busy clinics and specifically, we report on the feasibility of screening for EM as well as the appropriate instrumentation for screening. Background: Prevalence estimates for elder mistreatment vary, but recent data from a national sample of community-residing adults over 60 years of age indicate that 11.4% of older adults report some form of elder mistreatment. There is a paucity of research related to screening in dental and medical clinics to understand the prevalence in such practice settings. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2008 to March 2009. We enrolled 241 patients at two clinics: a medical clinic (n = 102) and dental clinics (n = 139). A mini-mental status exam was conducted with a minimum of 18 or better for inclusion. An elder mistreatment screen was next used [elder assessment instrument (EAI-R) for medical and Hwalek–Sengstock elder abuse screening test (HS-EAST) for dental]. Results: For the 241 patients, we were able to compare data from the EAI-R with the HS-EAST. This pilot work demonstrates the feasibility of screening for EM in busy clinics since we documented patient enrolment of 20% in the medical clinics and 66% in dental clinics. Patients are willing to answer extremely-sensitive questions related to elder mistreatment and are also willing to use computer technology for interviewing. Conclusion: Dental and medical clinics are important practice venues to screen for elder mistreatment.
Neuroprotection Against Ischemic Brain Injury with Methylene Blue (P1.104)

Goal: To test the neuroprotective effects of the FDA-approved drug methylene blue (MB) in a mouse model of ischemic brain injury. Background: MB is a powerful antioxidant with autoxidizable properties capable of acting as an exogenous electron shuttle and alternate electron acceptor in the respiratory chain (Wen Y. et al. J Biol Chem 2011; 286: 16504-15). MB displays great bioavailability to the brain and mitochondria due to its high affinity for oxidoreductases, which makes it an ideal agent to prevent ischemia/reperfusion injury. We hypothesize that low-dose MB given systemically prior to stroke onset will be effective at preventing ischemic brain injury in vivo . Methods: Brain ischemia was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion via common carotid artery monofilament advancement in male Swiss Webster mice (n = 13, 3 months old). Saline or MB (0.5 mg/kg) was given intraperioteneally 1 h prior to ischemia. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured with transcranial Doppler at baseline, 0 and 60 min after occlusion as well as 5 min and 24 h after reperfusion. Edema-corrected brain infarct volumes were obtained at 24 h in 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride-stained brain sections. Neurological deficits were scored (0-5 scale) at time of reperfusion and 24h later. Results: MB-treated mice showed a mean infarct volume 57.1% smaller than saline-treated mice (saline 58.3 ± 11 mm 3 vs. MB 25 ± 9 mm 3 , p < 0.01). No between-group differences in CBF changes or neurological scores were observed. Conclusion: This pre-clinical pilot study provides proof of principle that low-dose systemic MB given before lesion is effective at preventing ischemic brain injury. Additional studies should determine the effect of MB on long-term functional recovery, and determine if post-stroke administration of MB is effective in preventing ischemia-induced injury. Supported by: Haggerty Center for Research on Brain Injury and Repair in Stroke and P01 NS032636 (MPG) Disclosure: Dr. Rojas -Martinez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Plautz has nothing to disclose. Dr. Stowe has nothing to disclose. Dr. Goldberg has nothing to disclose.
Implementing First-Order Variables in a Graphical Cognitive Architecture

Graphical cognitive architectures implement their functionality through localized message passing among computationally limited nodes. First-order variables --particularly universally quantified ones --while critical for some potential architectural mechanisms, can be quite difficult to implement in such architectures. A new implementation strategy based on message decomposition in graphical models is presented that yields tractability while preserving key symmetries in the graphs concerning how quantified variables are represented and how symbols, probabilities and signals are processed.
The cellular proteins which can associate specifically with polyomavirus middle T antigen in human 293 cells include the major human 70-kilodalton heat shock proteins.

Abstract We compared the proteins which associate with middle T antigen (MT) of polyomavirus in human cells infected with Ad5(pymT), a recombinant adenovirus which directs the overexpression of MT, with the MT-associated proteins (MTAPs) previously identified in murine fibroblasts expressing MT. MTAPs of 27, 29, 36, and 63 kilodaltons (kDa) appeared to be fairly well conserved between the two species, as judged by comigration on two-dimensional gels. Several 61-kDa MTAP species detected in MT immunoprecipitates from both cell sources also comigrated on these gels. However, no protein comigrating precisely with the murine 85-kDa MTAP could be detected in the human cells. Furthermore, two proteins of 72 and 74 kDa associated with wild-type MT in the infected human cells but not in murine fibroblasts expressing MT. It had been previously reported for murine cells that the 70-kDa heat shock protein associates with a particular mutant MT but not with wild-type MT (G. Walter, A. Carbone, and W.J. Welch, J. Virol. 61:405-410, 1987). By the criteria of comigration on two-dimensional gels, tryptic peptide mapping, and immunoblotting, we showed that the 72- and 74-kDa proteins that associate with wild-type MT in human cells are the major human 70-kDa heat shock proteins.
Organic carbon extraction efficiency in chloroform fumigated and non-fumigated soils

The chloroform-fumigation extraction (CFE) method is widely used to estimate soil microbial biomass. The relationship between extraction efficiency and the extractant-to-soil ratio has not been fully investigated in chloroform fumigated and non-fumigated soils. We analyzed the extraction efficiency of 0.5 M K 2 SO 4 in five soils at six extractant-to-moist soil ratios (3:1, 5:1, 7.5:1, 10:1, 12.5:1, and 15:1). A positive relationship between extractant-to-soil ratio and the amount of extracted dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was observed for both non-fumigated and fumigated samples. The extractant-to-dry soil ratio required for 90% extraction averaged 12.0 for non-fumigated samples and 8.2 for fumigated samples. A minor, yet statistically significant, positive relationship between extractant-to-dry soil ratio and chloroform-labile carbon was observed in four of five soils, with a 5.6 average extractant-to-dry soil ratio required for 90% extraction. For analyses where DOC extracted from non-fumigated samples is a critical variable, an extractant-to-soil ratio greater than 5:1 should be considered.
The solid-state heat-capacity laser

Heat-capacity operation of a laser is a novel method by which high average powers can be generated. In this paper, we present the principles behind heat-capacity operation, in addition to describing the results of recent experiments.
Hepatitis B virus infection in infants and toddlers in Nigeria: The need for early intervention

One or more serologic markers of hepatitis B were detected in serum samples from 29 of 61 (48%)Nigerian children between ages 6 months and 2 years who were followed for three months. Eight (13%) had acute infections, nine (15%) had chronic infections, and 12 (20%) had transplacentally acquired maternal antibody. Of 17 with active hepatitis B, 13 had been infected prior to the first serum sample (76% of infections) and four were infected during the three months of this study (24% of infections). These data indicate that effective intervention at an early age would have prevented 24% of the HBV infections which occurred in these infants, and intervention soon after birth might have prevented all of the cases.
The N-Terminus of the K Channel KAT1 Controls Its Voltage-Dependent Gating by Altering the Membrane Electric Field

Functional roles of different domains (pore region, S4 segment, N-terminus) of the KAT1 potassium channel in its voltage-dependent gating were electrophysiologically studied in Xenopus oocytes. The KAT1 properties did not depend on the extracellular K+ concentration or on residue H267, equivalent to one of the residues known to be important in C-type inactivation in Shaker channels, indicating that the hyperpolarization-induced KAT1 inward currents are related to the channel activation rather than to recovery from inactivation. Neutralization of a positively charged amino acid in the S4 domain (R176S) reduced the gating charge movement, suggesting that it acts as a voltage-sensing residue in KAT1. N-terminal deletions alone (e.g., delta20-34) did not affect the gating charge movement. However, the deletions paradoxically increased the voltage sensitivity of the R176S mutant channel, but not that of the wild-type channel. We propose a simple model in which the N-terminus determines the KAT1 voltage sensitivity by contributing to the electric field sensed by the voltage sensor.
A simple triangular curved shell element

A simple triangular shell element which incorporates the effects of coupling between membrane and flexural behaviour and avoids membrane locking is described. The element uses a discrete Kirchhoff bending formulation and a constant strain membrane element. For the purpose of permitting inextensional modes and thus avoiding membrane locking, a decomposition technique, which can also be viewed as a strain projection method, is used. The method is illustrated first for a beam element and then for a triangular shell element. Results are presented for a variety of linear static problems to illustrate its accuracy and some highly non‐linear problems to indicate its applicability to collapse analysis.
STUDIES ON THE BIOSYNTHESIS OF LIPIDS IN THE BABOON. BIOSYNTHESIS AND TRANSPORT OF CHOLESTEROL.

Abstract The transport of exogenous and/or endogenous cholesterolin the baboon has been studied using [1-14C] acetate, [2-14C] mevalonic acid and 3H- and 14C-labeled cholesterol. The peak specific activity of the serum free cholesterol derived from [2-14C] mevalonic acid was reached in 4–10 h and the free and esterified forms equilibrated by 72 h. With the use of either [4-14C] cholesterol or [7δ-3H] cholesterol, peak specific activities of the free and esterified fractions were observed between 1–3 days. The free and ester specific activities were about equal over a 10-day period. The total cholesterol specific activity of the α and β lipoproteins was nearly the same over the period studied, regardless of whether derived from exogenous or endogenous sources. This finding was corroborated by simultaneous administration of [2-14C] mevalonic acid and [7α-3H] cholesterol to a baboon. Rate constants were deduced for the compartmentation of either exogenous or endogenous cholesterol. The slowest components of the free cholesterol specific activity curves of dietary or biosynthetic origin were found to have half-life values of 9.6 and 3.7 days, respectively. These studies indicate at least a qualitative parallel for the manner of transport of cholesterol in humans and baboons.
The entrepreneurial perceptions of strategy makers: Constructing an exploratory path in the pursuit of radical growth

For established firms, radical growth requires experimenting with new alternatives, which can test the boundaries of management's thinking. This study proposes that entrepreneurial perceptions of the strategic situation and market environment have a direct influence on corporate entrepreneurship (CE) strategy, which is strategy that supports new business development and renewal. The results indicate that strategy makers will pursue a more explorative CE strategy in situations framed as positive, less controllable and yet knowable, and in environments perceived as munificent and dynamic. Additionally, with explorative CE strategy comes a greater investment in radical growth (i.e., new lines of business). The paper concludes with a discussion of the study's implications in regards to the relationship between interpretation and strategy and the management of attention and meaning.
The Spectral Sensitivities of Single Cells in the Median Ocellus of Limulus

The spectral sensitivities of single Limulus median ocellus photoreceptors have been determined from records of receptor potentials obtained using intracellular microelectrodes. One class of receptors, called UV cells (ultraviolet cells), depolarizes to near-UV light and is maximally sensitive at 360 nm; a Dartnall template fits the spectral sensitivity curve. A second class of receptors, called visible cells, depolarizes to visible light; the spectral sensitivity curve is fit by a Dartnall template with λmax at 530 nm. Dark-adapted UV cells are about 2 log units more sensitive than dark-adapted visible cells. UV cells respond with a small hyperpolarization to visible light and the spectral sensitivity curve for this hyperpolarization peaks at 525–550 nm. Visible cells respond with a small hyperpolarization to UV light, and the spectral sensitivity curve for this response peaks at 350–375 nm. Rarely, a double-peaked (360 and 530 nm) spectral sensitivity curve is obtained; two photopigments are involved, as revealed by chromatic adaptation experiments. Thus there may be a small third class of receptor cells containing two photopigments.
Are the photosynthetic membranes of cryptophyte algae inside out

Cryptomonads are unicellular algae with a unique photosynthetic apparatus, both in structure and pigment composition. A cryptomonad,Rhodomonas lens (R. lens), was studied by conventional electron microscopy, freeze-fracture, and freeze-etch in order to determine whether the thylakoids of this alga are everted with respect to those of other plants, as has been postulated (Gantt et al. 1971,Gantt 1979, 1980) as a means to compensate for the location of the cryptomonad light-harvesting apparatus on the opposite side of the thylakoid membrane from that of related algae. We have characterized the thylakoids of this alga and conclude that they are not everted, but are oriented in the same manner as those of other algae and green plants. Implications for energy transfer are discussed.
Nd isotopic evidence for juvenile crust in the Carolina terrane, southern Appalachians

Nd isotopic analyses of whole-rock samples from the older portion of the Carolina terrane, one of the largest terranes in the Appalachian orogen, demonstrate that part of this terrane is composed of juvenile, mantle-derived crust. These data suggest that the terrane may not have originally been built upon old, evolved basement material but rather may have been built upon oceanic crust. A recent study by other workers demonstrates a more crustally evolved Nd isotopic signature for younger components of the Carolina terrane. These data may indicate that the terrane interacted with evolved crust at a later time, possibly by amalgamation with a more evolved crustal fragment before final accretion to Laurentia, rather than indicating a primary old basement. A juvenile nature for the older portion of the terrane contrasts with models that suggest it is an evolved crustal fragment that formed in a continental margin setting — a scenario proposed to explain the high proportion of felsic volcanic rocks within the terrane. It is herein suggested that Carolina is a chemically evolved but isotopically juvenile crustal fragment, because it remained in an oceanic setting for an unusually long time. In this regard the Carolina terrane is similar to some of the large accreted terranes in the Canadian Cordillera, such as Wrangellia and Alexander. The presence of juvenile crust in the Carolina terrane documents that at least part of the southern Appalachian orogen is not composed solely of reactivated pre-existing continental crust. The importance of this part of the orogen in terms of the volume of juvenile Phanerozoic crustal material in North America may be larger than previously thought. However, until additional major Appalachian terranes have been isotopically characterized the volume of juvenile crust in the whole orogen remains unknown. The isotopic make-up of a terrane can be an important aspect of terrane analysis as different terranes may have significantly different isotopic compositions, while even widespread pieces of a single terrane should have very similar isotopic characteristics. The Nd isotopic data for the Carolina terrane form the beginning of an isotope database for terranes in the southern Appalachians.
Electrocochleographic and mechanical assessment of round window stimulation with an active middle ear prosthesis.

Abstract Mechanical stimulation of the round window (RW) with an active middle ear prosthesis (AMEP) has shown functional benefit in clinical reports in patients with mixed hearing loss (MHL). Further objective physiological data on the efficacy of RW stimulation is needed, however, to demonstrate that RW stimulation with an AMEP can generate input to the inner ear comparable to acoustic input. Cochlear microphonic (CM) and mechanical (stapes velocity) responses to sinusoidal stimuli were measured by electrode and laser Doppler vibrometry in eight chinchillas in response to normal acoustic stimulation via sealed calibrated insert earphones and to AMEP stimulation (Otologics MET, Boulder, CO, USA) of the RW with and without lateral ossicular chain disarticulation. CM thresholds for acoustic stimulation were frequency dependent and ranged from 16 to 50 dB SPL. CM thresholds measured with RW stimulation ranged from −14 to 35 dB mV with an intact middle ear chain and from −7 to 36 dB mV after lateral ossicular chain disarticulation. Acoustically, stapes velocity maxima was observed at ∼700 Hz and minima at ∼2.65 kHz. With application of the AMEP to the RW, peak stapes velocity was observed at 2–3 kHz. The equivalent ear canal sound pressure level ( L E max dB SPL) evoked by RW stimulation with the AMEP was 60–105 dB SPL for the intact middle ear and 70–100 dB SPL after ossicular chain disarticulation. Stimulating the inner ear through the RW with an AMEP produces evoked responses (CM) comparable to normal acoustic input. When adjusted for threshold (due to unit differences, dB SPL or dB mV), the sensitivity of the CM (slope) for acoustic was comparable to sensitivities obtained by AMEP stimulation of the RW. Mechanical stimulation of the RW with an AMEP produces cochlear responses (CMs) and stapes velocities that are functionally equivalent to acoustic stimulation.
SonoKnife: feasibility of a line-focused ultrasound device for thermal ablation therapy.

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of line-focused ultrasound for thermal ablation of superficially located tumors. Methods: A SonoKnife is a cylindrical-section ultrasound transducer designed to radiate from its concave surface. This geometry generates a line-focus or acoustic edge. The motivation for this approach was the noninvasive thermal ablation of advanced head and neck tumors and positive neck nodes in reasonable treatment times. Line-focusing may offer advantages over the common point-focusing of spherically curved radiators such as faster coverage of a target volume by scanning of the acoustic edge. In this paper, The authors report studies using numerical models and phantom and ex vivo experiments using a SonoKnife prototype. Results: Acoustic edges were generated by cylindrical-section single-element ultrasound transducers numerically, and by the prototype experimentally. Numerically, simulations were performed to characterize the acoustic edge for basic design parameters: transducer dimensions, line-focus depth, frequency, and coupling thickness. The dimensions of the acoustic edge as a function of these parameters were determined. In addition, a step-scanning simulation produced a large thermal lesion in a reasonable treatment time. Experimentally, pressure distributions measured in degassed water agreed well with acoustic simulations, and sonication experiments in gel phantoms and ex vivo porcine liver samples produced lesions similar to those predicted with acoustic and thermal models. Conclusions: Results support the feasibility of noninvasive thermal ablation with a SonoKnife.
Information, capital, and organization

This paper examines on of the roles that information plays in the production process by looking at the information that firms collect about their workers. This information, concerning the worker's abilities, is used to improve the quality of job matches within the firm and reduce future production costs. This paper models this information as a capital good and shows how the existence of this capital good can be used to explain some of the residual firm value observed in equity markets as well as the rigidities observed when firms expand their scale.
The pharmacology of oversedation in mechanically ventilated adults.

Purpose of reviewTo review pharmacological-related factors that affect the incidence of oversedation in mechanically ventilated adults.Recent findingsRecent epidemiologic studies have identified a high frequency of oversedation in the ICU that is attributable, in part, to a number of pharmacokinetic
An Empirical Reexamination of the Impact of CBOE Option Initiation on the Volatility and Trading Volume of the Underlying Equities: 1973–1986

This study presents an empirical analysis of the impact of Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) option initiation on the price volatility and trading volume of the underlying equities. Virtually every firm with options listed on the CBOE from April 1973 to June 1986 is included in the empirical tests. The results of the tests strongly suggest that option listing leads to decreases in the total (but not systematic) risk of optioned firms. Although total trading volume appears to increase following option listing, securities listed after 1980 show smaller increases in volume than those listed in the early years of option trading.
Spontaneous proliferation in unfractionated spleen cell cultures: Autologous mixed-lymphocyte reactions (AMLR) which can be differentially regulated by prostaglandins and lymphokines☆

Abstract The present studies were undertaken to define the contribution of the autologous or syngeneic mixed-leukocyte reactions (AMLR/SMLR) to the cellular proliferation observed in unfractionated spleen cell cultures. Proliferation was studied in whole, untreated 6-day murine spleen cell cultures supplemented with syngeneic serum. These cultures exhibited relatively low but significant levels of cellular proliferation as measured by uptake of radioactive thymidine ([3H]TdR). Treatment of spleen cells with monoclonal anti-Thy 1.2 antibody and complement before culture, the addition of specific anti-I-A monoclonal antibodies to the cultures or removal of Ia+ adherent cells before initiation of culture all inhibited the proliferative response significantly. Thus, the autologous proliferation of untreated and unfractionated spleen cells manifests the main characteristics of the AMLR/SMLR, namely, its dependence on T (responder) and Ia+ (stimulator) cells and specific inhibition by anti-I-A antibodies. A marked augmentation in cellular proliferation was observed in unfractionated spleen cell cultures treated for the initial 24 hr of culture with 5 × 10−6M indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis. Conversely, the addition of 7 × 10−9M prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) to these cultures depressed cellular proliferation. This suppression of autologous splenic cell proliferation induced by PGE1 could be partially reversed by the addition of concanavalin A-induced lymphokine (LK) preparations early in the culture. These findings indicate that (a) the proliferation of unfractionated spleen cell cultures occurring in the absence of exogenous stimulatory signals is due largely to an ongoing AMLR, and (b) biologically active mediators with opposing influences, namely, prostaglandins and immunostimulatory LK, participate in the regulation of the AMLR.
Incorporation of Strain Hardening Effect Into Limit Load Analysis

In this paper a novel method for finding out limit loads in the components or structures by incorporating strain hardening effects is presented. This has been done by including certain amount of the strain hardening into limit load analysis, which normally idealizes the material to be perfectly plastic. The typical strain hardening curves including bilinear hardening and Ramberg-Osgood material models are investigated. The paper also concentrates on plastic reference volume correction concept to find the active volume participating in plastic collapse. The reference volume concept in combination with mα -Tangent method is used to estimate the lower bound limit load of different components.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Some factors affecting durability of sulphur-impregnated porous bodies

Abstract The effect of impregnation on long-term durability has been investigated by exposing 1.3-mm thick specimens of sulphur-impregnated, autoclaved, portland cement-silica mixtures, room-temperature-cured pastes and porous glass to various liquids including water. All impregnated bodies were permeable to vapours, and matrices with specific surface areas in excess of 20 m 2 /g and impregnated with sulphur were subject to high internally-generated local stresses when exposed to water and other vapours, leading to possible failure.
ELECTROCHEMICAL MEASUREMENT OF THE FREE ENERGY OF ADSORPTION OF N-ALKANETHIOLATES AT AG(111)

The oxidative adsorption of n-alkanethiolates (CncH2nc+1S-) at Ag(111) in aqueous and methanolic solutions containing 0.5 M NaOH has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry and in-situ surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Reversible adsorption of CncH2nc+1S- under active potential control in solutions containing millimolar concentrations of CncH2nc+1S- provides a means to control the deposition of n-alkanethiolate monolayers, and allows for the direct voltammetric measurement of the free energy of monolayer formation. Oxidative adsorption of short chain alkanethiolates (nc ≤ 6) in aqueous 0.5 M NaOH is characterized by two voltammetric waves, demonstrating that monolayer formation involves at least two energetically distinct chemical steps. The first voltammetric wave corresponds to the reversible and rapid adsorption of CncH2nc+1S- at submonolayer coverages. The redox potential of this wave ( = −1.19 ± 0.02 V vs Ag/AgCl) is independent of nc, suggesting that the interactions between adsorbed molec...
Flow visualization of the liquid emptying process in scaled-up gravure grooves and cells

Abstract The liquid-emptying process in scaled-up gravure grooves and cells is studied using flow visualization in order to better understand gravure coating and printing processes. Water and two different glycerin/water mixtures serve as the test liquids, and the emptying process is initiated by moving over the groove or cell a rotating roller or a glass top with a curved surface. For the scaled-up groove, a region of recirculating flow is observed to attach to the moving glass top. When the glass top is used to drive flow in the scaled-up cell, an air bubble may appear inside the cell when the gap between the bottom of the curved surface and the top of the cell is zero. When this gap is positive, a liquid bridge is formed, dragged across the cell, and then broken, leaving some liquid inside the cell. The amount of liquid remaining in the cell, V r , is measured for different liquids, surface speeds, and gap distances for both the glass top and the rotating roller. The effect of using a soft elastomeric covering on the glass top and roller is also explored. For each liquid, V r increases as the speed of the glass top or roller increases. The data are correlated by multiplying V r by a liquid-dependent shift factor, which leads to a power-law relationship between the shifted V r and the capillary number. These experimental observations and measurements can be used to benchmark theoretical calculations, which can then be applied to design gravure grooves and cells that empty in a controlled way.
Ideology Spotting: An Exercise in Teaching Conservatism and Liberalism

It has long been lamented that Americans do not comprehend conservative and liberal ideologies and the associated policy preferences for each perspective (and the reasoning behind the associations). This research seeks to contribute to the teaching of conservatism and liberalism by creating a heuristic outlining six general characteristics for each ideological persuasion. The heuristic is designed to have application across time and space. The article outlines a simple, widely applicable current events assignment designed to utilize the heuristic and reviews the results of implementation from two semesters. The results, although exploratory in nature, indicate that the heuristic and the according assignment can be useful pedagogical tools for providing a foundation for understanding these basic ideological categories. Moreover, the assignment provides the opportunity for students to develop their abilities at interpreting domestic politics within and across countries.
AI in Reverse: Computer Tools That Turn Cognitive

This article posits artificial intelligence (AI), as applied in instruction, is a more efficient means to old ends and that newer ends can be thought of. In particular, it is argued on the basis of some past research and on the basis of a Vygotskian view, that intelligent computer tools can not only simulate human cognition but, given specific conditions, humans can simulate computer's intelligence. That is, learners can internalize computers' intelligent tools and use them as cognitive ones. Internalization is discussed in terms of cognitive reconstruction of cultural artifacts of particular characteristics — tool-like nature, relative novelty of function, compatibility with learners' schemata, and most importantly — explicitness of operation. The article also discusses learning conditions that might facilitate the process of tool internalization, particularly “high road” learning whereby learners are intentionally mindful of a tool's mode of operation and logic. A preliminary study is briefly described ...
Large B-cell lymphoma of the leg: clinical and pathologic characteristics in a North American series.

Abstract Background Large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) of the leg is an uncommon subset of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphoma that has been described in a series of European patients. Objective Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical manifestation, diagnostic histopathology, immunophenotype, clinical course, and response to treatment of LBCL of the leg. Methods We conducted a retrospective case series of 3 patients with primary LBCL of the leg. Results The 3 elderly patients presented with progressive erythematous nodules on bilateral or unilateral lower extremities. All 3 patients had pre-existing peripheral edema or peripheral vascular disease. Histopathologic examination of the nodules showed dense lymphocytic infiltrates composed predominantly of large dysplastic lymphocytes that marked as B cells (CD20 + ). In 2 cases, the neoplastic cells were BCL-2 positive. All patients responded to initial therapy with localized electron beam radiation and chemotherapy but had disease progression. One patient had a complete and durable second response to anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (rituximab). Conclusions The patients described have similar clinical and histopathologic features to those previously described. There may be an association between LBCL and pre-existing lower-extremity vascular disease. Treatment of LBCL is difficult, but 1 patient responded well to systemic anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody.
Solution Structure of a Cisplatin-Induced DNA Interstrand Cross-Link

The widely used antitumor drug cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (cisplatin or cis-DDP) reacts with DNA, cross-linking two purine residues through the N7 atoms, which reside in the major groove in B-form DNA. The solution structure of the short duplex [d(CAT-AGCTATG)]2 cross-linked at the GC:GC site was determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The deoxyguanosine-bridging cis-diammineplatinum(II) lies in the minor groove, and the complementary deoxycytidines are extrahelical. The double helix is locally reversed to a left-handed form, and the helix is unwound and bent toward the minor groove. These findings were independently confirmed by results from a phase-sensitive gel electrophoresis bending assay. The NMR structure differs markedly from previously proposed models but accounts for the chemical reactivity, the unwinding, and the bending of cis-DDP interstrand cross-linked DNA and may be important in the formation and repair of these cross-links in chromatin.
On Defending Controversial Viewpoints: Debates of Sixth Graders about the Desirability of Early 20th-Century American Immigration.

Sixth-grade students with and without mild disabilities participated in an eight-week project-based investigation about immigration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Students' investigations were designed to promote their understanding of the perspectives of immigrants and Americans who opposed immigration, as well as the “ways of life” that gave impetus to immigration and often resulted in conflict between these groups. At the conclusion of these investigations, students were assigned the role of the immigrants or opponents of immigration and were asked to debate the desirability of immigration to the United States during this historical period. The primary focus of this article is on the opportunities afforded by, and the limitations of, these classroom debates. The debates promoted high levels of engagement and equal participation by students with and without disabilities as well as by boys and girls. Analyses of content and structure showed that students' discourse was influenced by the knowledge they gained during their investigations, but the use of this knowledge was shaped by the competitive rhetorical goal of defending a particular viewpoint. Later rounds of the debates were more balanced and drew more on the breadth of available knowledge than did earlier rounds. Overall, the debates were more typical of everyday arguments than academic arguments. The implications of our findings for the design of instructional opportunities in the social studies in inclusive classrooms are discussed.
Proteomic identification of novel proteins in cortical lewy bodies.

Lewy body (LB) inclusions are one of the pathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). One way to better understand the process leading to LB formation and associated pathogenesis responsible for neuro-degeneration in PD and DLB is to examine the content of LB inclusions. Here, we performed a proteomic investigation of cortical LBs, obtained by laser capture microdissection from neurons in the temporal cortex of dementia patients with cortical LB disease. Analysis of over 2500 cortical LBs discovered 296 proteins; of those, 17 had been associated previously with brainstem and/or cortical LBs. We validated several proteins with immunohistochemical staining followed by confocal microscopy. The results demonstrated that heat shock cognate 71 kDa protein (also known as HSC70, HSP73, or HSPA10) was indeed not only colocalized with the majority of LBs in the temporal cortex but also colocalized to LBs in the frontal cortex of patients with diffuse LB disease. Our investigation represents the first extensive proteomic investigation of cortical LBs, and it is expected that characterization of the proteins in the cortical LBs may reveal novel mechanisms by which LB forms and pathways leading to neurode-generation in DLB and/or advanced PD. Further investigation of these novel candidates is also necessary to ensure that the potential proteins in cortical LBs are not identified incorrectly because of incomplete current human protein database.
The need for substance abuse after-care: Longitudinal analysis of Oxford House

Abstract Aims There is a need to explore the processes of social support and self-efficacy change over time among individuals in recovery homes, and to assess the extent to which residents remain abstinent, obtain and maintain employment, refrain from criminal activity, and utilize health care systems both while within the and after leaving such settings. Design Residents were recruited and interviewed at an initial baseline phase and then re-interviewed at three subsequent 4-month intervals. Setting Oxford Houses are recovery home residences for individuals with substance abuse and dependence problems who seek a supportive, democratic, mutual-help setting. Participants A national US sample of Oxford House residents ( n = 897: 604 men, 293 women). Measurements Information was gathered on abstinence, social support, self-efficacy, employment, criminal history, and medical care utilization. Findings Change in cumulative abstinence was predicted by support for alcohol use, abstinence self-efficacy, and length of residency in OH (i.e., less than versus ≥ 6 months), even after controlling for initial time spent in OH. Conclusions Results suggest that receiving abstinence support, guidance, and information from recovery home members committed to the goal of long-term sobriety may enhance residents' abstinence self-efficacy and enable persons recovering from alcohol and other drug addiction to reduce the probability of a relapse.