cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abundance and community structure of forest floor spiders following litter manipulation.

We conducted a field manipulation of forest litter to determine effects of litter structure (flat vs curly leaves) on forest floor spiders in natural and artificial leaf litter. Artificial litter made of vinyl, was nondecomposable and non-nutritive. In this way, we separated interactions of effects of litter as a nutritional base and as a spatially heterogeneous environment on litter-dwelling spiders.
Hypervalent Iodine Chemistry: New Oxidation Reactions Using the Iodosylbenzene−Trimethylsilyl Azide Reagent Combination. Direct α- and β-Azido Functionalization of Triisopropylsilyl Enol Ethers

Treatment of triisopropylsilyl (TIPS) enol ethers with PhIO/TMSN3/at −18 to −15 °C rapidly (5 min) gave β-azido TIPS enol ethers in high yields, with only traces of the α-azido adduct. The reaction...
Carbon on platinum: Work function changes caused by atomic carbon and by two-dimensional graphite islands

Abstract Carbon monoxide thermally dissociates in the kinked areas of a rounded Pt single crystal. The created C atoms cause a work function increase (Δφ = + 0.04 eV ({430}) to + 0.14 eV ({210}); experimental error in Δφ: ± 0.02 eV), which appears to depend linearly on the areas' kink densities. The surface dipole moment, μ(C/Pt), is roughly 0.1 ± 0.02 D. Beginning at about 850 K, C atoms form 2D graphite islands. These islands cause a work function decrease (Δφ = −1.58 eV ({210})).
Compendium of Single-Event Latchup and Total Ionizing Dose Test Results of Commercial and Radiation Tolerant Operational Amplifiers

This compendium reports on single-event latchup and total ionizing dose results for a variety of operational amplifiers targeted for possible use in NASA spacecraft. It covers devices tested over the last 15 years.
The effects of the Yuan‐dollar exchange rate on agricultural commodity trade between the United States, China, and their competitors

The United States claims that the undervaluation of Chinese currency, the Yuan, causes U.S. exports to China to decrease and imports from China to increase. Furthermore, because the Yuan is undervalued only against the dollar, U.S. competitors have an advantage in exporting to China and China has an advantage over its competitors in exporting to the United States. This study develops a theoretical model to analyze the effect of the Yuan undervaluation on prices, supply, demand, and trade in the United States, China, and their competitors. This study applies a cointegration/error-correction model to empirically quantify the short-run and long-run effects of the devaluation of the Yuan on important agricultural commodities traded between the United States, China, and their competitors. These commodities include Chinese imports of milk, soybeans, and cotton from the United States and U.S. imports of beans, fruit juice, and fruit from China. The results show that Yuan devaluation causes Chinese imports of U.S. milk, soybeans, and cotton to decline and U.S. imports of beans, fruit juice, and fruit from China to increase in the short run and in the long run.
An uncertainty inequality and zero subsums

Abstract Let G be a finite abelian group, and let m be the maximal order of elements in G. It is shown that if s>m 1 + log |G| m , then any sequence a1, …, as of elements in G, has a on-empty subsequence which sums to zero. The result is a consequence of an inequality for the finite Fourier transform.
Photocatalysis in a slurry reactor

Abstract A series of experiments have been conducted on the photocatalytic reduction of methylene blue with zinc oxide catalyst in a slurry reactor. It is shown that by using a procedure involving separate experiments to determine the shielding effects of the suspended solid (inert solid of similar particle size with a standard actinometric solution) it is possible to identify experimentally the region in the reaction system where imperfect solids mixing influences the rate of reaction. The reactor employed here is also shown to provide a relatively simple means for kinetic measurements in photocatalytic reactions. The rate constants obtained in this study for methylene blue reduction were weakly dependent on zinc oxide concentration in the suspension. A value of 3·67 M −1 sec −1 at 0·1 wt.% ZnO at 31·9°C was obtained, where M is the molarity of the solution in methylene blue. This may be compared with 1·25 × 10 4 M −1 sec −1 reported by Yoneyama [14] for methylene blue reduction on a rutile crystal of titanium dioxide at room temperature, and 3·33 M −1 sec −1 for p -nitrosodimethylaniline reduction in a 0·1 wt. % ZnO suspension, also at room temperature[13].
The pharmacokinetic profile of a new generation of parenteral cephalosporin

Cefepime, a fourth-generation cephalosporin with activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive organisms, has been investigated in healthy subjects and in special patient populations, including the elderly and those whose ability to eliminate drugs may be compromised. This review of seven pharmacokinetic studies indicates that the pharmacokinetic disposition of cefepime, administered either intravenously or intramuscularly, is similar to that of other cephalosporins with regard to dose linearity, renal excretion, and low serum protein binding. The elimination half-life of intravenous cefepime has been found to be approximately 2 hours, and peak serum concentrations approach 82 microg/mL for a 1-g dose and 164 microg/mL for a 2-g dose. Total body clearance is approximately 120 mL/min, independent of dose, and >80% of the drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Dosage adjustment is warranted for patients with renal insufficiency but not hepatic dysfunction. The pharmacokinetic disposition of cefepime is altered in the elderly but not enough to necessitate additional dosage adjustment. Tissue penetration studies indicate similarity to other cephalosporins with low protein binding.
Volt/Var Control on Distribution Systems with Lateral Branches Using Switched Capacitors and Voltage Regulators, Part II: The Solution Method

In this paper the optimal solutions of the following two decoupled problems are given on the basis of the model presented in Part I; (i) The capacitor (var) problem: determination of the locations, sizes and the real-time control of n ON/OFF switched and fixed shunt capacitors, (ii) The regulator (volt) problem: determination of the locations and real-time control of minimum number of voltage regulators. The objective in both problems is to minimize the peak power and the energy losses and to provide smooth voltage profile along the distribution system with lateral branches.
Chemoreceptors in the paleopulmonic lung of the emu: discharge patterns during cyclic ventilation.

Abstract We recorded afferent vagal impulses arising from 12 intrapulmonary chemoreceptors in an anesthetized, paralyzed emu whose lungs were ventilated by a pump. Afferent endings were identified as intrapulmonary chemoreceptors if their firing was inhibited by addition of 8% CO2 to the ventilating O2; firing was transiently inhibited also by injection of a bolus of CO2 into the tracheal cannula (mean latency of effect, 0.7 sec). Fiber conduction velocities ranged from 6.0 to 12.6 m · sec−1 (mean 9.4m o sec-l). The average discharge frequency during the ventilatory cycle (6.1 impulses · sec−1) and the average peak-to-trough difference in frequency (7 impulses ·sec−1) were less than those reported in chicken and duck. Discharge patterns during the ventilatory cycle were monophasic in 75 % of fibers and biphasic in 25%, a distribution similar to that in chicken and duck. We had expected that the majority of intrapulmonary chemoreceptors in the wholly paleopulmonic lung of the emu would have a biphasic pattern of discharge. The paucity of receptors with a biphasic discharge might indicate that flow or CO; content, or both, of the gas ventilating the emu lung is not identical in inflation and deflation; another possibility is that there are regional differences in flow or CO2 content.
The reconnection of auditory posterior root fibers in the red-eared turtle, Chrysemys scripta elegans

Abstract The auditory portion of the eighth nerve, the posterior root, was transected in Chrysemys scripta elegans . Two groups of animals were allowed to survive; one for 22 days and the second for 64 days. Each group was then reoperated to inject HRP into the cochlear duct and allowed to survive for an additional three days — for a total survival time of 25 days and 67 days. The 67 day survivors had HRP reaction product in the eighth nerve and the primary auditory nuclei, while the 25-day survivors did not. Degeneration byproduct was present in the same structures in the 25-day survivors while little was in the 67-day survivors. These results indicate a reconnection of the eighth nerve fibers to the acoustic tubercle.
Orbital emphysema: case reports and review of the literature

Objective This study was designed to describe the usual clinical findings of orbital emphysema as well as unusual and infrequent but important causes of this condition. Design We present seven detailed cases of orbital emphysema and review the pertinent English-language literature published since 1900. Material and Methods Characterization of the seven patients with orbital emphysema illustrates the various causes and clinical findings of the disorder. Additionally, we review 78 previously published cases of orbital emphysema to determine the treatment and prognosis of this condition. Results Trauma is the most frequent cause of orbital emphysema; however, orbital emphysema also may occur spontaneously or as a complication of pulmonary barotrauma, infection, and operation. In most cases, orbital emphysema resolves spontaneously without compromising ocular function. If excessive amounts of air accumulate within the orbit, however, complications such as occlusion of the central retinal artery or compressive optic neuropathy may lead to loss of vision if not recognized promptly and treated. Conclusion In most cases, orbital emphysema is an incidental, benign finding that resolves with time. Careful observation is the only treatment necessary unless an orbital fracture involves an infected sinus, in which case prophylactic orally administered antibiotics may be prescribed.
Approach to the adult female patient with diffuse nonscarring alopecia

Alopecias are traditionally categorized by the presence or absence of scarring and by a diffuse or localized pattern. A common clinical conundrum is that of a woman presenting with the chief complaint of diffuse, nonscarring hair loss. We review the 4 main diagnostic possibilities for this clinical scenario: (1) female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), (2) acute and chronic telogen effluvium, (3) diffuse alopecia areata, and (4) loose anagen syndrome. We also outline our approach to the individual patient, emphasizing the pertinent history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic testing. This approach usually allows the clinician to make a definitive diagnosis or limited differential diagnosis and to offer the patient therapeutic options.
Gyrophase drifts and the orbital evolution of dust at Jupiter's gossamer ring

The 'gyrophase drift' phenomenon in Jupiter's fine-dust 'gossamer ring' is presently shown to exceed the plasma-drag drift, and may be able to move small, charged grains either toward or away from synchronous radius. The grain gyrophase drifts toward the higher temperature in the presence of a radial gradient in plasma temperature; gyrophase drift will also occur in conjunction with a radial gradient in the relative concentrations of different plasma ion species, or even due to plasma-grain velocity variation associated with the grain's cycloidal motion through the plasma. The Poynting-Robertson drift is noted to be diminutive by comparison with either the plasma-drag or gyrophase drifts.
Changing flux of xylose metabolites by altering expression of xylose reductase and xylitol dehydrogenase in recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

We changed the fluxes of xylose metabolites in recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae by manipulating expression of Pichia stipitis genes (XYL1 and XYL2) coding for xylose reductase (XR) and xylitol dehydrogenase (XDH), respectively. XYL1 copy number was kept constant by integrating it into the chromosome. Copy numbers of XYL2 were varied either by integrating XYL2 into the chromosome or by transforming cells with XYL2 in a multicopy vector. Genes in all three constructs were under control of the strong constitutive glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase promoter. Enzymatic activity of XR and XDH in the recombinant strains increased with the copy number of XYL1 and XYL2. XR activity was not detected in the parent but was present at a nearly constant level in all of the transformants. XDH activity increased 12-fold when XYL2 was on a multicopy vector compared with when it was present in an integrated single copy. Product formation during xylose fermentation was affected by XDH activity and by aeration in recombinant S. cerevisiae. Higher XDH activity and more aeration resulted in less xylitol and more xylulose accumulation during xylose fermentation. Secretion of xylulose by strains with multicopy XYL2 and elevated XDH supports the hypothesis that d-xylulokinase limits metabolic flux in recombinant S. cerevisiae.
Software evaluation: EasyReg International

Abstract Herman J. Bierens' EasyReg International is a convenient and efficient tool for researchers, teachers and students. It is free of charge, easy to use and offers many popular econometric tools. We reviewed the most recent (October 6, 2004) version. We present the evaluation according to Berk's (1987) [Berk, K., 1987. Effective microcomputer statistical software, The American Statistician, 41, 222–228] list of criteria for statistical software. We also discuss the numerical accuracy of EasyReg International.
STRESS MANAGEMENT TRAINING FOR PARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN UNDERGOING CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION

A program to prepare school age patients for cardiac catheterization is described and evaluated. Children and their parents were provided with a combination of interventions including information, supportive counseling, and stress management training. A team approach was used to reduce anxiety and upset and to increase cooperation of pediatric patients in the hospital and following discharge.
Optical diffraction effects in a photonic delay line

Accurate, low-noise, wideband phased array radar antennas depend on the use of true time delays between microwave elements. A photonic means of generating the required element-to-element phase shifts was developed by Toughlian and Zmuda for systems operating in the VHF frequency range, and extended by Monsay and Caccuitto for operation in the radar C band. The photonic beamformer is based on a heterodyne optical system, in which the reference beam acts as a probe of the acoustic wave in the acousto-optic (AO) cell. It is apparent that the benefits of this photonic system rely greatly on the ability of the probe beam to pick out just the right phase shift/time delay from the acoustic waveform in the AO cell. A basic limitation to system performance could come from intrinsic diffraction effects due to the finite beamwidth of the probe in the AO cell. In addition, the finite size of the photodetector in the system will have an effect on the final SNR. These effects have been studied in detail and their implications for design and performance of the photonic beamformer are discussed. © 1997 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumen- tation Engineers. (S0091-3286(97)01312-3)
Autonomic Provisioning with Self-Adaptive Neural Fuzzy Control for End-to-end Delay Guarantee

Autonomic server provisioning for performance assurance is a critical issue in data centers. It is important but challenging to guarantee an important performance metric, percentile-based end-to-end delay of requests flowing through a virtualized multi-tier server cluster. It is mainly due to dynamically varying workload and the lack of an accurate system performance model. In this paper, we propose a novel autonomic server allocation approach based on a model-independent and self-adaptive neural fuzzy control. There are model-independent fuzzy controllers that utilize heuristic knowledge in the form of rule base for performance assurance. Those controllers are designed manually on trial and error basis, often not effective in the face of highly dynamic workloads. We design the neural fuzzy controller as a hybrid of control theoretical and machine learning techniques. It is capable of self-constructing its structure and adapting its parameters through fast online learning. Unlike other supervised machine learning techniques, it does not require off-line training. We further enhance the neural fuzzy controller to compensate for the effect of server switching delays. Extensive simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of our new approach in achieving the percentile-based end-to-end delay guarantees. Compared to a rule-based fuzzy controller enabled server allocation approach, the new approach delivers superior performance in the face of highly dynamic workloads. It is robust to workload variation, change in delay target and server switching delays.
Comparative study of noise-tolerant texture classification

The effectiveness of four types of texture features are compared in performing noise-tolerant texture classification. The four types of texture features investigated are: edge separation texture features; standard cooccurrence matrix features; cooccurrence matrix features of directionally-smoothed texture samples; and the Fourier power and phase spectrum features of Liu and Jernigan (1990). All methods, except standard cooccurrence matrix features, performed well. >
Defining species guilds in the Central Hardwood Forest, USA

Tree regeneration outcomes are challenging to generalize and difficult to predict. Many tree species can establish new propagules in a variety of post-disturbance environments and many different reproductive mechanisms may be used. In order to develop conceptual models that accurately reflect reproductive potential, we need a better understanding of the similarities in regeneration ecology among species. We used information from the forest ecology literature to evaluate the reproductive attributes of sixty-two tree species in the central hardwood region of the eastern United States. Each species was classified categorically for features such as flowering, seed production and dispersal, seed dormancy, germination requirements, seedling characteristics, and vegetative reproduction. Cluster analysis (Jaccard’s similarity coefficient, complete linkage method) and ordination (homogeneity analysis) were used to separate nine groups (guilds) of species that had similar reproductive attributes. Individual attributes that had high variance in the first and second dimensions included: seed banking, seed dispersal, seedling shade tolerance, and seedbed requirements. Members of each guild had similar levels of reproductive specialization and guilds were either pioneer-like, opportunistic, or persistent. Pioneer guilds included: short-lived or fugitive species that colonize sites rapidly and are too shade intolerant to replace themselves; shade-tolerant species that colonize frequently disturbed sites; and stress-tolerant pioneers that survive on dry or nutrient-poor sites. Opportunistic guilds contained species that are remarkably versatile in their reproductive effort. The most flexible opportunists can colonize new sites, maintain seed in a seed bank, sprout from existing stems and persist as a seedling or sapling bank. Persistent guilds contain species that develop and maintain advance regeneration. These include: species with moderate understory tolerance that regenerate via cycles of dieback and resprouting; and more tolerant species that maintain seedling or sapling banks. Our regeneration guilds may provide a useful approach for more realistically representing large and diverse sets of tree species in forest ecosystem models.
A student personal positioning system approach to the analysis, design and fabrication of actual control systems

A personal positioning system approach is presented as a means of providing introductory level students with an enduring exposure to one of the most important aspects of the discipline of control systems engineering, namely the successful implementation of real-world control systems. The aim of the approach is to expose the student to the essential skills of projecting physical system characteristics into the framework of a useful model and the reverse process of translating model simulation results into the physical framework. Each student is individually responsible for accomplishing construction, modeling and controller design. The system hardware costs are minimal as a result of employing surplus components and a novel potentiometer position sensor design. Consequently, the students are entitled to keep their personal positioning systems upon demonstration of successfully satisfying design requirements. A motivation for the development of the student personal positioning system hardware approach is to complement the advent of powerful and user friendly modeling and simulation software packages which make it possible for even the beginning student to completely design a control system in a virtual environment. The personal positioning system provides the critical link between virtual environment and reality. In addition, these software packages make it all the more unlikely that students will encounter actual control systems in more advanced courses and consequently a greater demand is placed on introductory courses to provide a lasting exposure to the skill of relating the physical system to the simulation model.
Aortic Root Replacement in a Patient With Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium Endocarditis and Leukemia

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium endocarditis is rare and usually occurs in immunocompromised patients. We describe a patient with hairy-cell leukemia and vancomycin-resistant E faecium endocarditis. The patient presented with severe aortic insufficiency. He underwent aortic root replacement with a cryopreserved aortic homograft and was treated with a combination of quinupristin/dalfopristin, ampicillin, and gentamicin.
Taking stock: assessing the present‐planning the future ‘You don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows’

In the past, the dual nature of orthodontics has presented practitioners with unique artistic challenges and scientific opportunities. As a result, orthodontists today are enjoying the 'Platinum Age of Productivity.' However, a disturbing trend that promotes neither art nor science has emerged. Health care reform in the United States has transformed health care from a service to a commodity. Some orthodontists and orthodontic practice management companies have capitalized on this change in thinking and are aggressively promoting orthodontic treatment as a product. This paper examines the impact of this paradigm shift on the future of orthodontics. Particular attention is paid to the interaction of three themes: first, orthodontics as a product, secondly, the current misconception that there is a shortage of orthodontic practitioners in the United States, and thirdly, the difficulty in defining 'excellence' in specialty training in orthodontics. In the near future, the collision of these three concepts will result in an orthodontic 'Perfect Storm'. The ability of our specialty to survive and thrive will be proportional to our professional behavior during these difficult times...caveat emptor.
LOCALIZATION OF THALAMIC PROJECTION OF AFFERENTS FROM THE TONGUE IN THE CAT.

Neuroanatomical nuclear configuration corresponding to the projection regions for the chorda tympani, the IXth, and the lingual nerves was studied in the cat thalamus by a combination of electrophysiological, stereotaxic, and histological techniques. Each of the three nerves innervating the tongue was dissected for stimulation in cats deeply anesthetized with Nembutal. Maps of the extent of the thalamic projection for a particular nerve were obtained by recording evoked potentials in the thalamus during the stimulation of one of these nerves. Such maps were correlated with the anatomical structures of the cat thalamus by reconstructing the recording sites from histological sections of the cat brain. It was found that the chorda tympani and the IXth nerve projection regions correspond closely to the ventromedial nuclear complex with slight encorachment on the lingual nerve projection region in the ventrobasal complex. The most medial portions of the taste nerve projection regions do not relay any tactile afferent impulses and the most lateral portion of the lingual nerve projection is not activated by impulses in the taste nerves. Therefore, it is suggested that the thalamic relay of taste is not coextensive with other lingual modalities in the cat thalamus but it has an independent representation in the ventromedial nuclear complex.
Eine einfache Anwendung des Analogcomputers auf ein Dosierungsproblem

Es wird die Anwendung des Analogcomputers auf die Aufstellung eines Dosierungsschemas fur ein lokal wirksames Magenmittel beschrieben. The Use of Analog Computer for a Dosage Problem The use of analog computer techniques for a dosage schedule of a locally effective stomach drug is described.
Effect of Several Drugs and Chemicals on Hepatic Glucuronide Formation in Newborn Rats.

Summary1. These studies confirm the observations of Inscoe and Axelrod that 3,4 benzpyrene administration to newborn rats enhances hepatic glucuronide formation. 2. Administration of chlorcyclizine or chloroquine to rats in late pregnancy increased glucuronide formation by homogenates of neonatal rat liver. 3. In rats and humans, chloroquine crosses the placenta and in rats chloroquine is concentrated in maternal and fetal liver. Administration of chloroquine, in the doses used to suppress malaria, to women in late pregnancy was without effect on the duration and magnitude of the hyperbilirubinemia observed in their infants. Further studies of the mechanism of these drug effects and their possible application to man are indicated.
Estrogen's effects on activity, anxiety, and fear in two mouse strains

Estrogen has effects on activity levels and emotional reactivity in both humans and rats. In a recent study conducted in ovariectomized (OVX) C57BL/6 (C57) mice we found that treatment with estradiol benzoate (EB) increased anxiety, fear learning, and running wheel activity relative to vehicle control (Veh). The present study was conducted to examine the stability of these findings across mouse strains (C57 and Swiss-Webster; SW), to get a better sense of the magnitude of the anxiety response by reducing baseline anxiety levels, and to discover if EB affects activity levels in a safe environment other than the home-cage running wheel. Mice of both strains treated with EB (s.c. implant, 25 microg in sesame oil, which enters the body over 5 weeks) were more anxious than Veh animals in the open field, elevated plus, and dark-light transition tests. SW animals were less anxious than C57 in the elevated plus. EB-treated animals of both strains were more active in the running wheel than Veh animals, and more active in the test of spontaneous activity in the home cage. EB-treatment also increased fear learning in a step-down avoidance task. EB appears to have a consistent but moderate effect in elevating anxiety and in increasing fear learning in two strains of mice. It is also involved in increasing activity in two different types of locomotion in the safer home cage. We conclude that these results of increased anxiety/fear and increased activity are suggestive of a general increase in arousal, with both sets of responses increasing the likelihood of reproductive behaviors occurring only when the environment predicts success.
The salaries of Italian Renaissance professors

I offer insight into the principles by which the salaries of Italian Renaissance professors were determined. There is a longstanding fascination with the fact that some professors during the Renaissance had extremely high salaries. It has been suggested that at the top of the salary scale were the superstars, professors who could attract many students and raise the prestige of the university. Through an analysis of data on the salaries of professors at Padua in 1422–1423, I argue that much of the differences in salaries can be explained in terms of the stage of career of professors. Those professors who have taught the longest tend to be paid the most. Hence, there is little evidence for the superstar thesis.
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis in African-American black and European-origin white patients.

Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis is now recognized, but the association with ethnicity has not been well studied. In a retrospective review at a major teaching facility, 46 pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis patients were identified; of these, 24 were African-American black and 19 were European-origin white. Both groups were similar in mean age at onset (black, 13.6 ± 3.36 years; white, 13.68 ± 3.42 years) and total duration of follow-up (black, 42.7 ± 43.5 months; white, 38.2 ± 35.3 months), with no significant difference in time to onset of disease-modifying therapy (black, 11.2 ± 4.7 months; white, 12.4 ± 5.1 months). The percentage of females was higher in the black than in the white group (83% vs 47%; P = 0.014). The annualized relapse rate was significantly higher in the black than in the white group (1.80 ± 1.14 vs 1.13 ± 0.50; P
Common gamma chain (γc) cytokines differentially potentiate TNFR family signaling in antigen-activated CD8+ T cells

Several members of the common gamma chain (gc) cytokine family are already approved (IL-2) or actively being developed as vaccine adjuvants and cancer immunotherapies. Studies have indicated that co-administration of gc cytokines may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapies that function via direct activation of co-stimulatory T cell receptors. To define the specific influence of gc cytokines on the co-stimulatory capacity of CD8+ T cells and identify combinations with synergistic potential, we investigated the direct impact of gc cytokines on the differentiation and transcriptional profile of recently antigen-primed CD8+ T cells. Naive CD8+ T cells were activated with peptide-pulsed APCs. After 48 hours, CD8+ T cells were harvested and re-cultured in media supplemented with IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-15 or IL-21. After 24 hours, cells were analyzed by cytokine bead array, flow cytometry, and mRNA micro-array. Gene networks responsible for specific CD8+ T cell functions were constructed through literature-meta review and publicly available annotation databases. Gene expression data from the experimental groups was imported into this network to visualize the impact of each gc cytokine on the functional polarization of recently-activated CD8+ T cells. Among the gc cytokines, IL-2 induced the greatest increase in the expression of co-stimulatory receptors in recently-activated CD8+ T cells. IL-2 increased significantly expression of 4-1BB, GITR, ICOS and OX40, at both the transcriptional and protein level. IL-2 also drove the greatest increase in cellular proliferation and the most robust shift towards a pro-survival phenotype, compared with the other gc cytokines. Both IL-4 and IL-21 enhanced expression of cytotoxic effector proteins, but drove distinct phenotypic polarizations, Th2/Tc2 and NK-like, respectively. Overall, these observations suggest that among gc cytokines, IL-2 may be uniquely capable of synergizing with therapeutic strategies that combine immunization with agonists of co-stimulatory T cell receptors. Previous studies have shown that the timing of IL-2 treatment relative to immunization plays a key role in defining the CD8+ T cell response, and the findings from this study indicate that administration of exogenous IL-2 shortly after the initial antigen-priming event has concluded may augment the receptivity of these cells to subsequent TNFR co-stimulation.
Screen time and physical activity during adolescence: longitudinal effects on obesity in young adulthood

The joint impact of sedentary behavior and physical activity on obesity has not been assessed in a large cohort followed from adolescence to adulthood. Nationally representative longitudinal data from Waves II (1995; mean age: 15.9) and III (2001; mean age: 21.4) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (n = 9,155) were collected. Sex-stratified multivariate logistic regression analysis assessed the odds of obesity associated with Wave II MVPA and screen time, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and change in MVPA and screen time from Wave II to III. Obesity was defined using body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) International Obesity Task Force cut-points at Wave II and adult cut-points at Wave III (BMI ≥ 30). In males, adjusted odds of prevalent obesity was strongly predicted by MVPA bouts [OR (95% CI): OR6 vs. 1 MVPA bouts = 0.50 (0.40, 0.62); OR4 vs. 40 hrs screen time = 0.83 (0.69, 1.00)]. In females, greater MVPA bouts and lower screen time correlated with lower prevalent obesity [OR (95% CI): OR6 vs. 1 MVPA bouts = 0.67 (0.49, 0.91); OR4 vs. 40 hrs screen time = 0.67 (0.53, 0.85)]. Longitudinally, adolescent screen time hours had a stronger influence on incident obesity in females [OR (95% CI): OR4 vs. 40 hrs = 0.58 (0.43, 0.80)] than males [OR (95% CI): OR4 vs. 40 hrs = 0.78 (0.61, 0.99)]. Longitudinal activity patterns were not predictive of incident obesity. Reducing screen time during adolescence and into adulthood may be a promising strategy for reducing obesity incidence, especially in females.
Improving the Measurement of Criminal Sexual Behavior The Application of Randomized Responding Technique

Randomized responding technique (RRT), a method for maintaining anonymity, was used with a sample of sexual offenders recruited into a treatment outcome study. Prior to release from incarceration, three groups--those randomly assigned to treatment, those randomly assigned to no-treatment control, and those who refused participation in the treatment study but consented to a prerelease interview--participated in an alternate-questions RRT procedure. This procedure pairs a nonsensitive question with the sensitive question of interest, in this case, the number of prior sex offenses. Respondents answered either the sensitive or nonsensitive question, depending on the results of a randomizing device (roll of dice). The distributions for the nonsensitive questions were highly skewed; therefore, the outliers were removed and RRT estimates calculated. RRT estimates of prior offending (2.20 prior offenses) were significantly higher than officially recorded prior offenses (0.51 prior offenses). The pattern of differences between treatment and control groups were similar in RRT estimates and officially recorded priors, as were the correlations between RRT estimates and other self-report scales. These results provide preliminary evidence that RRT is a useful method for generating reoffending data that are more sensitive than officially recorded offenses and that contain less bias than other self-reports. Language: en
Fertility of bovine semen in milk diluent containing combinations of penicillin-neomycin and lincomycin-spectinomycin.

Abstract In a split-ejaculate experiment involving 25 ejaculates from 10 Holstein-Friesian bulls, fertility of semen packaged and frozen in glass ampules did not differ significantly among antibiotic combinations. Mean 66-day nonreturn rates were 68.8, 67.6, and 66.6% for 2,662, 2,674, and 2,679 first service cows for milk diluted semen treated with 1,000 units penicillin and 1,000µg neomycin, 150µg lincomycin and 300µg spectinomycin, or 1,000 units penicillin and 1,000µg streptomycin/ml. Combinations of penicillin and neomycin or lincomycin and spectinomycin are satisfactory substitutes for penicillin and streptomycin in diluted bull semen without impairing fertility.
Trophic cascades and trophic trickles in pelagic food webs

Prey-dependent models, with the predation rate (per predator) a function of prey numbers alone, predict the existence of a trophic cascade. In a trophic cascade, the addition of a top predator to a two-level food chain to make a three-level food chain will lead to increases in the population size of the primary producers, and the addition of nutrients to three-level chains will lead to increases in the population numbers at only the first and third trophic levels. In contrast, ratio-dependent models, with the predation rate (per predator) dependent on the ratio of predator numbers to prey, predict that additions of top predators will not increase the population sizes of the primary producers, and that the addition of nutrients to a three-level food chain will lead to increases in population numbers at all trophic levels. Surprisingly, recent meta-analyses show that freshwater pelagic food web patterns match neither prey-dependent models (in pelagic webs, 'prey' are phytoplankton, and 'predators' are zooplankton), nor ratio-dependent models. In this paper we use a modification of the prey-dependent model, incorporating strong interference within the zooplankton trophic level, that does yield patterns matching those found in nature. This zooplankton interference model corresponds to a more reticulate food web than in the linear, prey-dependent model, which lacks zooplankton interference. We thus reconcile data with a new model, and make the testable prediction that the strength of trophic cascades will depend on the degree of heterogeneity in the zooplankton level of the food chain.
Intraflagellar Transport and Cilia-Dependent Renal Disease: The Ciliary Hypothesis of Polycystic Kidney Disease

Epithelial cells that line mammalian kidney nephrons have solitary nonmotile primary cilium projecting from their surface into the lumens of the ducts and tubules. Mutations that block the assembly of these cilia cause cystic kidney disease. The products of human autosomal dominant and recessive polycystic kidney disease genes and products of the nephronophthisis disease genes are at least partially localized to primary cilia. This suggests that the cilium serves as an organizing center for the early steps of the signal transduction pathway that is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the kidney nephron and controlling cell proliferation and differentiation.
Observational study of upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding events in patients taking duloxetine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: a case-control analysis.

Purpose To determine whether the concomitant use of duloxetine with prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin was associated with an increased risk for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) bleeding compared with taking these analgesics alone.
Historical Trends and Their Impact on the Social Construction of Self Among Hispanics and Its Impact on Self-Efficacious Behaviors in Training and Careers

Historic trends affect the social construction of the Hispanic self that have negatively affected achievement. This is reflected in the models of training and career counseling. Achievement depends on many factors among college students. Hispanic college students have certain obstacles that need to be addressed related to self-concept to meet these challenges and improve their rates of success in higher education. Analyzing history and psychological theory increase a researcher’s knowledge of what drives self-efficacious behaviors. In the end, refined knowledge of what motivates Hispanic students in academic tasks improves a person’s ability to counsel Hispanic individuals toward routes to success in career choices higher education.
Nectin-1α, an Immunoglobulin-like Receptor Involved in the Formation of Synapses, Is a Substrate for Presenilin/γ-Secretase-like Cleavage

Nectin-1 is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and a Ca(2+)-independent adherens junction protein involved in synapse formation. Here we show that nectin-1alpha undergoes intramembrane proteolytic processing analogous to that of the Alzheimer's disease amyloid precursor protein, mediated by a presenilin (PS)-dependent gamma-secretase-like activity. 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) treatment of Chinese hamster ovary cells activated a first proteolytic event, resulting in ectodomain shedding of nectin-1alpha. Subsequent cleavage of the remaining 26-kDa membrane-anchored C-terminal fragment (CTF) was inhibited independently by three specific gamma-secretase inhibitors and by expression of the dominant negative form of PS1. The PS/gamma-secretase-like cleavage product was detected in vivo following proteasome inhibitor treatment of cells. An in vitro gamma-secretase assay confirmed the generation of a 24-kDa nectin-1alpha intracellular domain, peripherally associated with the membrane fraction. We also found nectin-1alpha to interact with the N-terminal fragment of PS1. Finally, gamma-secretase inhibition resulted in beta-catenin release from cell junctions, concomitantly with the accumulation of the 26-kDa nectin-1alpha CTF, suggesting that high levels of nectin-1alpha CTF interfere with TPA-induced remodeling of cell-cell junctions. Our results are consistent with a previously reported role for PS/gamma-secretase in adherens junction function involving cleavage of cadherins. Similar to nectin-1, other members of the immunoglobulin superfamily involved in synapse formation may also serve as substrates for PS/gamma-secretase-like intramembrane proteolytic activity.
Population Characteristics and Assessment of Overfishing for an Exploited Paddlefish Population in the Lower Tennessee River

Abstract Paddlefish Polyodon spathula (n = 576) were collected from Kentucky Lake, Kentucky–Tennessee, with experimental gill nets in 2003–2004 to assess population characteristics and the potential for commercial overfishing. Additional data were collected from 1,039 paddlefish caught by commercial gillnetters in this impoundment. Since the most recent study in 1991, size and age structure have been reduced and annual mortality has tripled. In the 1991 study, 37% of the fish collected were older than the maximum age we observed (age 11), and in 2003 annual mortality for paddlefish age 7 and older was high (A = 68%). Natural mortality is presumably low (<10%) for paddlefish; therefore, exploitation in recent years is high. Estimates of total annual mortality were negatively related to river discharge in the years preceding each estimate. The number of paddlefish harvested since 1999 was also negatively related to river discharge because gill nets cannot be easily deployed when discharge exceeds approximat...
Integrating Normal and Abnormal Personality Structure: The Five‐Factor Model

It is evident that the conceptualization, diagnosis, and classification of personality disorder (PD) is shifting toward a dimensional model. The purpose of this special issue of Journal of Personality is to indicate how the Five-Factor Model (FFM) can provide a useful and meaningful basis for an integration of the description and classification of both normal and abnormal personality functioning. This introductory article discusses its empirical support and the potential advantages of understanding personality disorders, including those included within the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and likely future PDs from the dimensional perspective of the FFM.
Types for atomicity: Static checking and inference for Java

Atomicity is a fundamental correctness property in multithreaded programs. A method is atomic if, for every execution, there is an equivalent serial execution in which the actions of the method are not interleaved with actions of other threads. Atomic methods are amenable to sequential reasoning, which significantly facilitates subsequent analysis and verification.This article presents a type system for specifying and verifying the atomicity of methods in multithreaded Java programs using a synthesis of Lipton's theory of reduction and type systems for race detection. The type system supports guarded, write-guarded, and unguarded fields, as well as thread-local data, parameterized classes and methods, and protected locks. We also present an algorithm for verifying atomicity via type inference.We have applied our type checker and type inference tools to a number of commonly used Java library classes and programs. These tools were able to verify the vast majority of methods in these benchmarks as atomic, indicating that atomicity is a widespread methodology for multithreaded programming. In addition, reported atomicity violations revealed some subtle errors in the synchronization disciplines of these programs.
Lumbopelvic Fixation for Pelvic Fractures

Pelvic fractures are uncommon but complex injuries associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality. Most fractures involving the pelvis, specifically the sacrum, can be effectively stabilized with iliosacral screws alone. However, significantly unstable fractures, particularly vertical shear patterns, as well as U-type variant sacral fracture patterns that create spinopelvic instability, require the addition of lumbopelvic fixation. The surgical technique involves neurologic decompression as necessary, multiplanar reduction of the pelvic ring and sacrum, and placement of stable fixation. Treatment of these severe injuries requiring lumbopelvic fixation is challenging and requires active collaboration between spine trauma and pelvis trauma surgeons. Although not routinely used, lumbopelvic fixation is an essential technique for the stabilization of complex pelvis fractures.
Impact of Glycopeptide Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus on the Dalbavancin In Vivo Pharmacodynamic Target

Dalbavancin is a novel lipoglycopeptide with activity against Staphylococcus aureus, including glycopeptide-resistant isolates. The in vivo investigation reported here tested the effects of this antibiotic against seven S. aureus isolates with higher MICs, including several vancomycin-intermediate strains. Results of 1-log kill and 2-log kill were achieved against seven and six of the isolates, respectively. The mean free-drug area under the concentration-time curve (fAUC)/MIC values for net stasis, 1-log kill, and 2-log kill were 27.1, 53.3, and 111.1, respectively.
The effect of bovine somatotropin on the cost of producing milk: Estimates using propensity scores

Annual farm-level data from New York dairy farms from the years 1994 through 2013 were used to estimate the cost effect from bovine somatotropin (bST) using propensity score matching. Cost of production was computed using the whole-farm method, which subtracts sales of crops and animals from total costs under the assumption that the cost of producing those products is equal to their sales values. For a farm to be included in this data set, milk receipts on that farm must have comprised 85% or more of total receipts, indicating that these farms are primarily milk producers. Farm use of bST, where 25% or more of the herd was treated, ranged annually from 25 to 47% of the farms. The average cost effect from the use of bST was estimated to be a reduction of $2.67 per 100 kg of milk produced in 2013 dollars, although annual cost reduction estimates ranged from statistical zero to $3.42 in nominal dollars. Nearest neighbor matching techniques generated a similar estimate of $2.78 in 2013 dollars. These cost reductions estimated from the use of bST represented a cost savings of 5.5% per kilogram of milk produced. Herd-level production increase per cow from the use of bST over 20 yr averaged 1,160 kg.