cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of feeding by mud snails, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Say), on the structure and metabolism of a laboratory benthic algal community

Abstract Eastern mud snails, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Say), in densities of 0, 80, and 160 snails · m−2 were placed in flow-through laboratory microcosms containing 5 cm of frozen and sieved sediments. Other microcosms were raked once daily to a depth of 10 mm. All these containers were incubated for 5 wk and regularly sampled for plant pigments and light and dark transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Feeding at the low density significantly increased chlorophyll standing stock. Respiration and gross photosynthesis increased by an even greater percentage compared to ungrazed controls. Standing stocks of algal pigments, respiration, and photosynthesis were depressed in microcosms which received the 160-snail or raking treatments. The dominant benthic algae in the containers were pennate diatoms. Grazed containers contained a larger percentage of non-motile as compared to motile forms. Sediments fertilized with ammonium at a rate equivalent to excretion of six snails, showed increased chlorophyll content equal to the 80-snail treatment. Daily raking inhibited this effect. We conclude that low densities of Ilyanassa obsoleta stimulate algal growth by accelerating nitrogen cycling and selectively removing specific components of the diatom community. At high snail densities these effects are overwhelmed by overgrazing and sediment stirring.
Effects of polymer-filler interaction on the mechanical properties of nylon 6,6 filled with organosilane-treated fillers

—Polymer-filler interaction in nylon 6,6 filled with organosilane-treated wollastonite fillers has been characterized by using surface energy properties of both the polymer matrix and the fillers. The results show that the value of equilibrium work of adhesion in the nylon 6,6 system filled with gamma-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-treated wollastonite is about the same as that of equilibrium work of cohesion of the nylon 6,6 matrix. The value of equilibrium work of adhesion of the nylon 6,6 system filled with vinyltriethyoxysilane (or methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane)-treated wollastonite is lower than that of equilibrium work of cohesion of the nylon 6,6 matrix. Break strain and tensile energy absorption for the wollastonite-filled nylon 6,6 systems are optimized when the values of equilibrium work of adhesion and equilibrium work of cohesion are matched. The fracture surfaces of the optimized nylon 6,6 system filled with, for example, gamma-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-treated wollastonite, show a mixed ...
Non-intrusive measurements of bubble size and velocity

A non-intrusive measuring technique based on video-imaging has been developed for the measurement of bubble size, velocity and frequency. Measurements carried out with this method have been compared to those obtained by an optimized phase-Doppler system in standard configuration, for a wide range of bubble sizes produced from single injectors in a quiescent environment. The two measuring techniques have yielded velocities and frequencies that are in very good agreement while the size of spherical bubbles was consistently measured by both methods. The phase-Doppler system was also used to size oblate-spheroidal bubbles moving with their equatorial plane parallel to the scattering plane, yielding measurements reasonably close to the average radius of curvature of the bubbles in the neighborhood of the equatorial plane, as calculated from the video-imaging data. Both methods were used for detailed velocity measurements of the bubble-stream in the neighborhood of the injector tip. The observed bubble-velocity variation with the distance from the injector tip does not always display the usual increasing trend leading into the terminal velocity. When injection conditions are near the transition from discrete to jet injection mode and the bubbles are small, the latter decelerate into a terminal velocity due to direct interaction of successive bubbles at the injector tip. The measured terminal velocities of bubble-chains for a variety of bubble sizes and injection frequencies, are successfully predicted by using a far-field wake approximation to account for the drafting effect which is responsible for bubble-chain velocities higher than those of single bubbles.
3'-phosphoinositides regulate the coordination of speed and accuracy during chemotaxis.

The PI3K/PTEN pathway, as the regulator of 3′-phosphoinositide (3′-PI) dynamics, has emerged as a key regulator of chemoattractant gradient sensing during chemotaxis in Dictyostelium and other cell types. Previous results have shown 3′-PIs to be important for regulating basal cell motility and sensing the direction and strength of the chemoattractant gradient. We examined the chemotaxis of wild-type cells and cells lacking PTEN or PI3K1 and 2 using analytical methods that allowed us to quantitatively discern differences between the genotype's ability to sense and efficiently respond to changes in gradient steepness during chemotaxis. We found that cells are capable of increasing their chemotactic accuracy and speed as they approach a micropipette in a manner that is dependent on the increasing strength of the concentration gradient and 3′-PI signaling. Further, our data show that 3′-PI signaling affects a cell's ability to coordinate speed and direction to increase chemotactic efficiency. Using to our knowledge a new measurement of chemotactic efficiency that reveals the degree of coordination between speed and accuracy, we found that cells also have the capacity to increase their chemotactic efficiency as they approach the micropipette. Like directional accuracy and speed, the increase in chemotactic efficiency of cells with increased gradient strength is sensitive to 3′-PI dysregulation. Our evidence suggests that receptor-driven 3′-PI signaling regulates the ability of a cell to capitalize on stronger directional inputs and minimize the effects of inaccurate turns to increase chemotactic efficiency.
Effect of storage on tensile material properties of bovine liver.

Cadaveric tissue models play an important role in the assessment and optimization of novel restraint systems for reducing abdominal injuries. However, the effect of tissue preservation by means of freezing on the material properties of abdominal tissues remains unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the influence of frozen storage time on the material responses of the liver parenchyma in tensile loading. Specimens from ten bovine livers were equally divided into three groups: fresh, 30-day frozen storage, and 60-day frozen storage. All preserved specimens were stored at � 12 1C. Dog-bone specimens from each preservation group were randomly assigned to one of three strain rates (0.01 s � 1 , 0.1 s � 1 , and 1.0 s � 1 ) and tested to failure in tensile loading. The local material response recorded at the tear location and the global material response of the whole specimen of the liver parenchyma specimens were investigated based on the experimental data and optimized analytical material models. The local and global failure strains decreased significantly between fresh specimens and specimens preserved for 30 days (po0.05), and between fresh specimens and specimens preserved for 60 days (po0.05) for all three loading rates. Changes on the material model parameters were also observed between fresh and preserved specimens. Preservation by means of frozen storage was found to affect both the material and failure response of bovine liver parenchyma in tensile loading. The stiffness of the tissue increased with increased preservation time and increased strain rate.
Therapy Techniques for Mild Cognitive Impairment

There is increasing concern among people in late middle age about cognitive changes they experience for everyday memory tasks. They are especially fearful that these memory lapses signal the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). For some, the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional state between normal aging and early dementia that precipitates a search for therapies to prevent conversion to AD. The purpose of this article is to describe a continuum of therapeutic approaches for the cognitive challenges experienced by persons with MCI, discuss the growing evidence for promising techniques to address these challenges, and outline a university-based memory strategies intervention program that incorporates several effective strategies.
Vessel wall–derived endothelial cells rapidly proliferate because they contain a complete hierarchy of endothelial progenitor cells

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can be isolated from adult peripheral and umbilical cord blood and expanded exponentially ex vivo. In contrast, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) or human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) derived from vessel walls are widely considered to be differentiated, mature endothelial cells (ECs). However, similar to adult- and cord blood-derived EPCs, HUVECs and HAECs derived from vessel walls can be passaged for at least 40 population doublings in vitro. Based on this paradox, we tested whether EPCs reside in HUVECs or HAECs utilizing a novel single cell deposition assay that discriminates EPCs based on their proliferative and clonogenic potential. We demonstrate that a complete hierarchy of EPCs can be identified in HUVECs and HAECs derived from vessel walls and discriminated by their clonogenic and proliferative potential. This study provides evidence that a diversity of EPCs exists in human vessels and provides a conceptual framework for determining both the origin and function of EPCs in maintaining vessel integrity.
Modulation of concanavalin A stimulation of hamster lymphoid cells by lithium chloride.

Abstract Addition of LiCl (1–25 mM) to serum-free cultures of MHA hamster thymocytes, lymph node cells, or splenocytes stimulated with concanavalin A had a biphasic effect on [3H]thymidine incorporation. These concentrations of LiCl enhanced stimulation of [3H]thymidine incorporation by suboptimal levels of concanavalin A but inhibited stimulation of optimal and supraoptimal concentrations of concanavalin A. This effect was specific for Li+ since it was not observed when similar concentrations of Na+, K+, or Mg2+ were added to cultures stimulated by concanavalin A. The inhibitory effect of LiCl on concanavalin A stimulation was not reversed by addition of Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, or Ca2+ + Mg2+ to the cultures. Significant reversal of LiCl inhibition of stimulation was observed when KCl was added to the cultures. However none of the ions tested blocked the Li-induced enhancement of [3H]thymidine incorporation in the presence of suboptimal concentrations of concanavalin A.
Introducing electromagnetic field momentum

I describe an elementary way of introducing electromagnetic field momentum. By considering a system of a long solenoid and line charge, the dependence of the field momentum on the electric and magnetic fields can be deduced. I obtain the electromagnetic angular momentum for a point charge and magnetic monopole pair partially through dimensional analysis and without using vector calculus identities or the need to evaluate integrals. I use this result to show that linear and angular momenta are conserved for a charge in the presence of a magnetic dipole when the dipole strength is changed.
Interspecific interference competition and mate choice in the soldier beetle, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus

Interference competition directed at soldier beetles, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, by four aggressive wasp species changed the mate choice of females. In the absence of wasps, females mated more frequently with males of greater weight and greater antennal scape diameter. Only in the presence of wasps did females frequently mate when they did not contain mature ova. When wasps were abundant, the proportion of beetles mating was higher. Wasps reacted aggressively toward mating beetles less frequently than toward single beetles. Therefore, females may have fed more efficiently in the presence of wasps when coupled.
Did North Atlantic overturning halt 17,000 years ago?

Models indicate that a complete shutdown of deep and intermediate water production is a possible consequence of extreme climate conditions in the northern North Atlantic, and the high ratio of 231Pa to 230Th on Bermuda Rise is evidence that this might have happened ∼17 ka during Heinrich event 1 (H1). However, new radiocarbon data from bivalves that lived at ∼4.6 km on the Bermuda Rise during H1 lead to a different conclusion. The bivalve data do indeed indicate ventilation of the deep western North Atlantic was suppressed during H1 but not as much as it was during the last glacial maximum. We propose that high diatom flux to the Bermuda Rise during H1 is at least in part responsible for increased 231Pa/230Th at that time. Although we cannot say for sure why opal production was so high in a gyre center location at that time, increased leakage of silica rich waters from the Southern Ocean to the North Atlantic is one possibility.
Elemental Concentrations In Japanese Silicate Rock Standards: A Comparison With The Literature

Data on seventeen Japanese geochemical reference samples are presented. Ten major and twenty-three trace element concentrations as well as the H2O + and H2O- were determined using x-ray fluorescence, colorimetry, coulometry and instrumental thermal neutron activation analysis. Error bars for the methods as well as information on some elements not previously published are presented. Good agreement was generally obtained with the recently published values of Ando. Dix elements majeurs et vingt elements en traces ainsi que H2O+ et H2O- ont ete doses dans 17 echantillons de reference du Service Geologique du Japon. Les methodes employees sont la spectrometrie de fluorescence-X, la coulometrie, la colorimetrie et l'activation neutronique thermique. En generale, un accord favorable est obtenu avec les valeurs publiees.
A memory efficient method of calculating specific absorption rate in CW FDTD simulations

Specific absorption rate (SAR) distributions in man models are often calculated using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The traditional method of calculating SAR requires calculation and storage of the three electric field components in each cell and is therefore very time- and memory-intensive. A new algorithm, based on the mass-normalized time-averaged energy distribution, is presented here. This new method of calculating SAR requires 1/6 of the memory and a small fraction of the computer time of the traditional method. The accuracy of the two methods is shown to be virtually identical. In addition to improving the efficiency of SAR distribution calculations, the memory requirements are virtually eliminated for calculations of layer-averaged or organ-averaged SAR.
CommGram: a new visual analytics tool for large communication trace data

The performance of massively parallel program is often impacted by the cost of communication across computing nodes. Analysis of communication patterns is critical for understanding and optimizing massively parallel programs. Visualization can help identify potential communication bottlenecks by displaying message trace data. However, the visual clutter and temporal incoherence problems are typically incurred in existing visualization tools for a considerable number of processors. In this paper, we present a new tool, named CommGram, which supports visual analysis of communication patterns for massive parallel MPI programs. With the benefit of MPI trace library DUMPI of SST, our framework builds hierarchical clustering trees for computational community domain, and takes advantage of graphical user interface (GUI) to convey communication patterns at different levels of detail. The effectiveness of our tool is demonstrated using large-scale parallel applications.
Digital development in rural areas: potentials and pitfalls $

Abstract The potential for rural areas to benefit from telecommunications technology is a persistent question. This paper examines data for the USA concerning the ‘digital divide’ and access of residences and businesses, which tend to suggest that all is (or will soon be) well. The paper also presents data on aspects of digital infrastructure in rural America, including points of presence and digital telephone switches, which suggest that there are major shortcomings in most rural communities. Demand aggregation is a possible solution, but more serious pitfalls are those related to shortages of human capital. These might be resolved in some rural places, where inmigration and return migration bring needed cerebral inputs to rural areas. A final set of improvements concerns how businesses use the Internet and e-commerce. In the end, telecommunications is not a ‘quick fix’ solution for rural development, and the desired improvements will be limited to a fraction of rural places.
Nomadmedia: On Critical Art Ensemble

The Critical Acts Ensemble, CAE for short, is a tightly knit group of artists exploring intersection between art, technology, critical theory, and political activism. We have given CAE a big chunk of space to present and explain their work. Added to that is a critical essay by TDR Contributing Editor Rebecca Schneider.
Higher ghrelin and lower leptin secretion are associated with lower LH secretion in young amenorrheic athletes compared with eumenorrheic athletes and controls

Amenorrhea is common in young athletes and is associated with low fat mass. However, hormonal factors that link decreased fat mass with altered gonadotropin pulsatility and amenorrhea are unclear. ...
Voltage-Gated K Channels

Ion channels and the electrical properties they confer on cells are involved in every human characteristic that distinguishes us from the stones in a field. Every perception, thought, movement, and heartbeat depends on electrical signals generated by the activity of ion channels. Early views of the relationship between channel structure and function have undergone substantial modification following the cloning of various ion channels and the determination of the structure of a simple bacterial K channel, the KcsA channel. This review focuses on the relationship between the structure and function of voltage-dependent K channels, covering the molecular bases of channel selectivity, conduction, and gating. The evolution of ion channels in bacteria is discussed, as well as the basis of channel selectivity and conduction in the KcsA channel. More complex channels have evolved molecular "gatekeepers," allowing them to respond to appropriate stimuli by opening, closing, and inactivating.
Multi-stage Monte Carlo and non-linear test problems

The multi-stage Monte Carlo approach is similar to the regular Monte Carlo or random search approach that is frequently used on difficult multivariate problems. However, with multi-stage, the regular Monte Carlo search is considered to be stage one. This is followed by several more stages in an ever narrowing and re-positioning region following the best answers so far, hopefully on a trail to the optimal or a close approximation. The element of risk is certainly present in multi-stage Monte Carlo. Therefore to compare it with other algorithms for effectiveness, six test problems from the literature are selected and ‘ solved ’ with multistage. The results with multi-stage and other approaches are similar for the first five problems. However, in the last test problem, multi-stage finds many lower values than the stated ‘ minimum ’ and fourteen of them are presented here along with computer programs and a discussion of multi-stage Monte Carlo
The combination of duloxetine and bupropion for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder

Our objective was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the combination of duloxetine and bupropion for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (TRD). A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who had not experienced full remission of symptoms following an adequate trial of either duloxetine (n = 3) or bupropion (n = 7), and who then received the combination of these two antidepressants for TRD. Ten patients [37.2 +/- 11.3 years of age, five women, baseline Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) scale score 4.4 +/- 1.1], seven of whom had not remitted following treatment with bupropion (330 +/- 67 mg, 20.5 +/- 12.2 weeks), and three of whom had not remitted following treatment with duloxetine (90 +/- 30 mg, 18 +/- 2 weeks) received at least 4 weeks of combination treatment. The CGI was administered when the combination was first prescribed, and following 8.8 +/- 4.0 (range, 4-16) weeks of treatment. There was a significant decrease in CGI-S (Severity) scores (4.4 +/- 1.1 to 2.1+/-0.9, P <.0001) following combination treatment. Three (30%) patients were remitters at follow-up, and six (60%) were responders who did not achieve full symptom remission. The mean maximum adjunctive duloxetine and bupropion doses were 60.0 +/- 17.3 mg and 175.0 +/- 114.5 mg, respectively. Side effects reported during combination treatment were nausea (n = 2), dry mouth (n = 2), jitteriness/agitation (n = 2), fatigue/drowsiness (n = 2), increased blood pressure (n = 1), increased sweating (n = 1), insomnia (n = 1), pruritus (n = 1), headache (n = 1), sexual dysfunction (n = 1), and weight gain (n = 1). Although preliminary, these results suggest a possible role for the combination of duloxetine and bupropion for TRD.
Call admission control algorithms for DS-CDMA cellular networks supporting multimedia services

We develop call admission control algorithms for DS-CDMA cellular networks that support multimedia services. When a new call (or a handoff call) arrives at a base station requesting admission, our algorithms calculate the desired power levels for the new call and all existing calls. These calculations are based on the interference received at the base station and the desired quality of service target for each call. If the desired power levels to be received at the base station for some calls are larger than the maximum allowable power limits, the admission request is rejected. Otherwise, the admission request is granted. When higher priority is desired for handoff calls, we allow different thresholds for new calls and handoff calls. Our algorithms are presented in a basic form and in an adaptive form.
Capacitive Probe Microscopy

A scanning capacitance microscope (SCM) combines a differential capacitance measurement with an atomic force microscope (AFM). The AFM controls the position and contact force of a scanning probe tip, and a sensor simultaneously measures the capacitance between that tip and the sample under test. The capacitance sensor can detect very small (≈10−21 F) changes in capacitance. The sensor is electrically connected to an AFM cantilevered tip that has been coated with metal to make it electrically conductive. As the SCM/AFM tip is scanned across the sample surface, simultaneous images of topography and differential capacitance are obtained. Currently, the most common application of SCM is imaging the carrier concentration variations (also known as dopant profiles) qualitatively within transistors that are part of silicon integrated circuits (ICs). Another application that has encouraged the development of commercial SCMs is the need for quantitative two-dimensional (2-D) carrier profiling of silicon transistors. This article reviews the history, operating principles, and applications of SCM. Special emphasis is placed on measuring quantitative 2-D carrier profiles in silicon using SCM. This article also reviews implementation and applications of the scanning capacitance spectroscopy (SCS) technique, the intermittent contact mode of SCM (or IC-SCM), and two other techniques that can also be classified as scanning capacitance probes: the scanning Kelvin probe microscope (SKPM), when operated at twice its drive frequency, and the scanning microwave microscope (SMWM). Keywords: scanning capacitance microscope (SCM); operating principles; capacitance probe microscope; research topics; kelvin probe microscope; contrast mechanism; carrier profiles
Superplumes from the deep mantle

A new and dramatic interpretation of mantle convection is emerging from the record of massive volcanic eruptions that have occurred episodically throughout Earth's history. The most recent volcanic outburst began suddenly at about 125 million years ago and continued for at least 60 million years, spanning much of the Cretaceous period. According to a recently completed study, the rate of ocean crust production during that burst was approximately twice what it is today [Larson, 1991). Much of this activity appears to have been produced by the melting of one, or perhaps several, massive thermal plumes that rose from the deep mantle beneath the Pacific and Indian plates. Cretaceous age continental flood basalts such as the Deccan Traps in India fit this picture nicely. Several large ocean plateaus such as Ontong-Java in the southwest Pacific and Kerguelen in the south Indian Ocean date from this period, and were probably formed in a similar way. These plateaus consist of 20-50 million cubic kilometers of plume-derived basaltic crust.
Multisignal spectral estimation using an iterative relative entropy method

A generalization of a method of spectral estimation by M.A. Tzaness, Ch. Moussas, and N.S. Tzannes (1984) is presented. The algorithm extends the method to the multiple signals case while still using an iterative procedure of the relative entropy method for estimating the spectral densities of the multisignal input data. Several current methods of relative entropy spectral estimation which involve solving N nonlinear equations simultaneously are also presented. The performance of the presented algorithm is compared to the maximum-entropy and other relative entropy methods, in terms of precision and computational efficiency. Classical examples are repeated and compared between the different methods. >
The Effectiveness of Worksite Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions for Controlling Employee Overweight and Obesity. A Systematic Review

This report presents the results of a systematic review of the effectiveness of worksite nutrition and physical activity programs to promote healthy weight among employees. These results form the basis for the recommendation by the Task Force on Community Preventive Services on the use of these interventions. Weight-related outcomes, including weight in pounds or kilograms, BMI, and percentage body fat were used to assess effectiveness of these programs. This review found that worksite nutrition and physical activity programs achieve modest improvements in employee weight status at the 6 -12-month follow-up. A pooled effect estimate of 2.8 pounds (95% CI4.6, 1.0) was found based on nine RCTs, and a decrease in BMI of 0.5 (95% CI0.8, 0.2) was found based on six RCTs. The findings appear to be applicable to both male and female employees, across a range of worksite settings. Most of the studies combined informational and behavioral strategies to influence diet and physical activity; fewer studies modified the work environment (e.g., cafeteria, exercise facilities) to promote healthy choices. Information about other effects, barriers to implementation, cost and cost effectiveness of interventions, and research gaps are also presented in this article. The findings of this systematic review can help inform decisions of employers, planners, researchers, and other public health decision makers.
Accelerating introduction of new vaccines: barriers to introduction and lessons learned from the recent Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine experience

Adoption of new vaccines in developing countries is critical to reducing child mortality and meeting Millennium Development Goal 4. However, such introduction has historically suffered from significant delays that can be attributed to various factors including (i) lack of recognition of the value of a vaccine, (ii) factors related to weak health systems, and (iii) policy considerations. Recently, the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) supported efforts to accelerate the introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines in developing countries, which resulted in a significant surge in vaccine adoption by these countries. The experience with Hib vaccines, as well as similar efforts by GAVI to support the introduction of new pneumococcal and rotavirus vaccines, provides a strategy for new vaccine adoption that is reviewed in this paper, providing a useful model to help accelerate the uptake of other life-saving vaccines. This strategy addresses barriers for vaccine adoption by focusing on three major areas: (i) communications to increase awareness about the various factors needed for evidence-based decisions that meet a country's health goals; (ii) research activities to answer key questions that support vaccine introduction and long-term programme sustainability; and (iii) coordination with the various stakeholders at global, regional and country levels to ensure successful programme implementation.
Agreement between clinical methods for the assessment of body fat

In recent years, the medical community and the public have become more aware that body composition assessment is an important factor in combating obesity. Various body composition methods exist, both for research and clinical use. A study was conducted on fifty-four (n=54) young adults, of varying body build, in order to evaluate bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and skinfold thickness (SKF) measurements. By means of results from measurements by SKF and BIA, an attempt has been made to asses the agreement between the methods for the prediction of the quantity of fat in the body. Body fat percentage (BF%) was the primary outcome variable. The mean BF% (plusmnSD) that resulted from the SKF device was 19.96 (plusmn7.51) and was not statistically different from the leg-to-leg BIA result of 20.15 (plusmn7.74). However, the arm-to-arm 16.27 (plusmn8.03) BIA results for BF% were statistically different from both the SKF and the leg-to-leg BIA by a post ANOVA Tukey's Multiple Comparison test. As previous papers have suggested, the results of this study indicate several factors that limit the valid applications of both BIA and SKF measurements. A direction for effective improvement is provided.
Abstract 242: Superoxide and Isoketal Neo-antigen formation in Dendritic Cells from Hypertensive mice activate T cells and promote Hypertension

Superoxide and inflammation contribute to the genesis of hypertension but the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. We examined the hypothesis that oxidative stress in dendritic cells (DCs) alters endogenous proteins via Isoketal-modification leading to formation of neo-antigens, T cell activation and blood pressure elevation. DCs isolated from mice with angiotensin II-induced hypertension had a significant increase in NADPH oxidase-dependent superoxide production when compared to sham-treated mice (334.0±49.7 versus 65.8±4.5 pmol/mg protein). This was associated with an exuberant DC accumulation of protein-isoketal adducts and activation of IL-6, IL-1β and IL-23 production. DCs from hypertensive mice but not sham mice promoted survival and proliferation of CD8 + T cells in culture. Scavenging of isoketals not only prevented activation and immunogenicity of DCs, but also markedly attenuated angiotensin II-induced hypertension (142.59 ± 8.98 mmHg versus 175.53 ± 5.19 mmHg in controls). Moreover, adaptive transfer of DCs from hypertensive mice primed development of hypertension in mice given a sub-pressor dose of angiotensin II (157.45 ± 33.86 mmHg versus 119.90 ± 17.33 mmHg in controls). These studies show that angiotensin II-induced hypertension activates DCs, in large part by causing superoxide production and formation of isoketals. We propose that Isoketal-modified proteins can be presented as neo-antigens by DCs, which in turn trigger T cell activation leading to hypertension.
Minocycline-Induced Cutaneous Hyperpigmentation in an Orthopedic Patient Population

Background. The objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence and evaluate risk factors for development of minocycline-induced cutaneous hyperpigmentation in patients with orthopedic infections. Methods. Patients with orthopedic infections evaluated at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) and treated with minocycline from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2011 were retrospectively identified. Long-term minocycline suppression was defined as daily minocycline use for at least 3 months. A proportional hazards model was used to evaluate potential risk factors. Results. Of 291 patients receiving long-term minocycline suppression, 54% (156 of 291) developed hyperpigmentation after a mean follow-up of 4.8 years (range, 0.3-13.2 years); 88% involved blue-gray pigmentation of normal skin that appeared most commonly in the lower (75%) and upper extremities (44%). The mean duration of minocycline therapy before hyperpigmentation was 1.5 years (range, 0.1-9 years) with a mean cumulative dosage of 107.3 g (range, 8.6-657 g). Notable risk factors include a history of vitamin D deficiency (relative risk [RR], 6.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.91-15.27; P = .0052), presence of a shoulder prosthesis (RR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.23-6.56; P = .0062), noncirrhotic liver pathology (RR, 3.63; 95% CI, 1.11-8.75; P = .0359), and use of a concurrent medication also known to cause hyperpigmentation (RR, 4.75; 95% CI, 1.83-10.1; P = .0029). Conclusions. Hyperpigmentation associated with the use of long-term minocycline suppression in patients with orthopedic infections is common.
On the Search for Quantum Tunneling of Magnetization

It is possible to observe experimental behavior that might be taken to be indicative of quantum tunneling of magnetization but is instead a manifestation of purely classical relaxation. We discuss a number of results that have a bearing on our ability to make such a discrimination, including sample characterization using scaling laws in the magnetic viscosity and the dynamical susceptibility (with expressions for both the classical and quantum regimes), temperature fluctuations, and domain wall tunneling across a domain wall junction for both ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. We also stress the importance of further theoretical and experimental studies of dissipation in magnetic relaxation, not only because of its strong effect on the WKB exponent, but also because of its effect on the strong temperature dependence of the prefactor in thermal relaxation.
La relevancia de los medios digitales en la Iniciativa Ciudadana Europea

La corriente politica y social que en todo el mundo tiende a una mayor participacion ciudadana en la gobernanza de las instituciones se materializo en el Derecho comunitario, entre otras cosas, en la inclusion de la figura de la iniciativa ciudadana, en virtud del Tratado de Lisboa, como un derecho mas dentro del abanico del estatuto de la ciudadania europea. Los textos normativos comunitarios han previsto un importante papel para los medios digitales, tanto para facilitar la informacion como la participacion de los ciudadanos. Habiendo transcurrido ya unos tres anos desde el comienzo de la posibilidad de presentar iniciativas ciudadanas y habiendose promovido ya en la practica unas cincuenta, se posee ya perspectiva suficiente para valorar si aquellas expectativas eran fundadas o no. Tras el estudio pertinente, hemos podido corroborar como los medios digitales han resultado esenciales para alcanzar los fines para los que se penso la iniciativa ciudadana, tanto en el sentido de servir de altavoz de las iniciativas promovidas, como en el de facilitar las recogidas de apoyos mediante paginas web. Incluso, parece que la practica demuestra que hoy en dia ya seria imposible, por falta de tiempo y medios de todo tipo, alcanzar las cifras de apoyo requeridas por las normas pertinentes sobre la iniciativa ciudadana, en los plazos previstos, si no es con ayuda de los medios digitales.
Sex Roles and Self-Disclosure:

The present study examined the contradictory findings concerning the relationship between sex and self-disclosure. Among the findings are that women disclose more than men (3, 6 ) , men disclose more than women (5, 8 ) , and men and women appear to self-disclose to the same extent (4, 7 ) . Two hundred and ten women and 209 men, enrolled in a large midwestern university, completed the Bem Sex-role Inventory ( 1 ) and the Self-disclosure Situations Survey ( 2 ) . The femininity and masculinity scales on the Bem were trichotomized, and subjects were classified as low (masculinity score L Gg), moderate (masculinity score between 69 and 78) , or high (masculinity score k 78) on masculiniry and as low (femininity score L 6 6 ) , moderate (femininity score between 66 and 74 ) , or high (femininity score 5 74). on femininity. A 3 X 3 X 2 (femininity x masculinity x sex) completely randomized design was used. Regression analysis demonstrated no significant difference in the total selfdisclosure of men and women. However, masculine women self-disclosed more total information than women low in masculinity ( P = 9.40, P = .002). Tukey's H S D test showed that women low in masculinity and women high in masculinity differed significantly in their self-disclosure ( H S D = 4.18, 206; observed difference = 5.521). Furthermore, feminine men self-disclosed more total information than men low in femininity ( P = 13.71, P = .0005). Tukey's H S D test showed that men high in femininity make more total disclosures than men who are moderate in femininity ( H S D = 4.74, 205; observed difference = 4.88) and make more total disclosures than men low in femininity ( H S D = 4.74, 205; observed difference = 7.33). Sex roles appear to provide a more accurate predictor of self-disclosure than biological sex. Previous conflicting findings on self-disclosure may be a result of ignoring sex roles, an apparently important mediating variable.
Stacking Fault Tetrahedra Formation During Growth of Si1−xGex Strained Layers on (111) Oriented Si Substrates: Tem Observations and Defect Modeling

We report the observation of stacking fault tetrahedra (SFT) in strained Si1-xGex layers grown via rapid thermal CVD on (111) Si substrates. It is shown that these defects provide a mechanism for strain relief in films strained in compression due the presence of bounding edge-type stair rod partials whose Burgers vectors lie parallel to the strained layer interface. Cross section and plan view TEM were used to characterize this defect structure in epilayers (30 to 650nm thick) of Si1-xGex (0 oriented Si wafers. Stacking fault tetrahedra were observed only in alloys in the compositional range xGe ≥ 0.13 and only when growth proceeded on the surface. A critical strain energy model that identifies conditions for the stable growth of stacking fault tetrahedra in a strained layer is presented. The model was based on conventional strain energy considerations where the energy of the stacking fault area plus the bounding dislocation network (including dislocation interactions but neglecting the free surface) was balanced against the strain energy released by the introduction of the defect. In addition, a formation mechanism consistent with these observations is described that involves the dissociation of Frank partial dislocation loops bounding stacking faults lying in the growth plane.
Access to human, animal, and environmental journals is still limited for the One Health community.

Objective: ‘‘One Health’’ is an interdisciplinary approach to evaluating and managing the health and well-being of humans, animals, and the environments they share that relies on knowledge from the domains of human health, animal health, and the environmental sciences. The authors’ objective was to evaluate the extent of open access (OA) to journal articles in a sample of literature from these domains. We hypothesized that OA to articles in human health or environmental journals was greater than access to animal health literature. Methods: A One Health seminar series provided fifteen topics. One librarian translated each topic into a search strategy and searched four databases for articles from 2011 to 2012. Two independent investigators assigned each article to human health, the environment, animal health, all, other, or combined categories. Article and journal-level OA were determined. Each journal was also assigned a subject category and its indexing evaluated. Results: Searches retrieved 2,651 unique articles from 1,138 journals; 1,919 (72%) articles came from 406 journals that contributed more than 1 article. Seventy-seven (7%) journals dealt with all 3 One Health domains; the remaining journals represented human health 487 (43%), environment 172 (15%), animal health 141 (12%), and other/combined categories 261 (23%). The proportion of OA journals in animal health (40%) differed significantly from journals categorized as human (28%), environment (28%), and more than 1 category (29%). The proportion of OA for articles by subject categories ranged from 25%–34%; only the difference between human (34%) and environment (25%) was significant. Conclusions: OA to human health literature is more comparable to animal health than hypothesized. Environmental journals had less OA than anticipated.
Colitis in the Elderly

Colitis encompasses a spectrum of disorders, each with its own natural history and therapy. In the elderly, the relative prevalence of these entities is markedly different than in younger patients, with infectious colitis the most common type, followed by antibiotic-associated disease and ischemic colitis. The last is rarely recurrent and half of the episodes resolve spontaneously.
Acute urinary tract infection in women: What kind of antibiotic therapy is optimal?

PreviewData gathered in recent years about uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women have led researchers to dispute previously accepted theories and approaches to treatment. Dr Elder examines several subjects that have been under debate, addressing such questions as, What differentiates urethral syndrome from low-colony-count urinary tract infection? How effective is short-course antibiotic therapy? and Why does infection persist or relapse after treatment?
A Flemish Nation: Catholicism, Language and the Medieval Past

The historical and territorial consequences of a nationalistic Flemish identity are linked to the primacy of the Flemish language for the “occupants of a territory that has been historicized and subjects of a history that has been territorialized.”1 The contemporary political and linguistic division of Belgium into two united, but distinct districts, the French-speaking Walloons in the South and the Dutch-speaking Flemish in the northwest, has its origins in CE 862 when the region of Flanders was created.2 After several centuries of a succession of rule by France and Spain, the Netherlands gained control and the Protestant Dutch King, Willem I ruled over the Netherlands and Belgium. In 1815 Willem I declared Dutch to be the official language of Belgium. But as he began to industrialize southern Belgium, he failed to cultivate a good relationship with the Catholic residents of this region who resented Protestant rule. The Walloons, frustrated by their treatment in a Dutch-dominated country instigated a protest, which erupted into the riots of 1830. Initially, at the instigation of the wealthy Walloon desire to be rid of the Dutch, the Walloons and Flemish worked together against Dutch control. Since a primary cause of the Revolution was the domination of the Dutch speakers over the economic, political and social institutions, the Belgian Revolution was, in a sense, a Walloon Revolution that eventually traded a Dutch-speaking hegemony for French-speaking one.
The effect of time delays in the stability of load balancing algorithms for parallel computations

Deterministic dynamic nonlinear time-delay systems are developed to model load balancing in a cluster of computer nodes used for parallel computations. The model is shown to be self consistent in that the queue lengths cannot go negative and the total number of tasks in all the queues are conserved (i.e., load balancing can neither create nor lose tasks). Further, it is shown that using the proposed load balancing algorithms, the system is stable. Experimental results are presented and compared with the predicted results from the analytical model. In particular, simulations of the models are compared with an experimental implementation of the load balancing algorithm on a parallel computer network.
Suppression of IGF binding protein-3 by palmitate promotes hepatic inflammatory responses.

IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is a liver-derived, anti-inflammatory molecule that is decreased in obesity, a key risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It was not known whether...
Rates of HER2 overexpression and trastuzumab response in Caribbean women with breast cancer.

e17558 Background: In eight studies of 2,764 American (BC) patients, HER2+ prevalence ranged from 17 to 32%; median 23% and mean 24%. The results of 26 world studies were similar. Two USA reports c...
On tensor products of operators from Lp to Lq

Let μ, μ′, v, v’ denote σ-finite measures on certain measurable spaces, let 1 ≤ q,p ≤ ∞, and let S : L p (μ) → L q (μ′), T: L p (v) → L q (v’) be given bounded linear operators. It is proved that if q < p, then (in general) S ⊗ T extends to a bounded linear operator U from L p (μ × v) to L q (μ′ × v’) if and only if 1 ≤ q ≤ 2 ≤ p ≤ ∞. In this case there are (best) constants C p,q depending only on p and q with ‖U‖ ≤ C p,q ‖S‖ ‖T‖. These constants are all larger than one. They are computed in certain cases. For example, C2,1 = C∞,2 = √σ/2. (This contrasts with a lemma due to W. Beckner: if p ≤ q, then S ⊗ T always extends to such a U with ‖U‖ = ‖S‖ ‖T‖.) It is deduced as acorollary that if Σ f i and Σ g j are unconditionally converging series in L p (μ) and L p (v), then Σi,jf i ⊗ g j unconditionally converges in L p (μ × v) provided 1 ≤ p ≤ 2. However for every 2 < p < ∞ there is an unconditionally converging series Σ f i in l p so that Σi,jf i ⊗ f i fails to converge unconditionally.
The Effect of Cisplatin on Blood Ammonia Elevation by Alanyl-Glutamine Supplementation.

BACKGROUND Although there are many clinical studies in which the beneficial effect of glutamine formulation on mucositis induced by chemo/radiotherapy was evaluated, the results are sometimes conflicting with the report of clinical deterioration. Then, we hypothesized that chemotherapy may increase the incidence of hyperammonemia without comparable change of major parameters of hepatic/renal disorder. METHODS To verify our hypothesis, we examined the increase in blood ammonia level with 1-h intravenous infusion of alanyl-glutamine on day 1-4 after cisplatin (CDDP) administration in rats and assessed the correlation with hepatic/renal parameters. RESULTS Hepatic parameters (glutamate-oxaloacetic transaminase [GOT] and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [GPT]) with CDDP did not change until day 3 and only GOT increased on day 4. Renal parameters (plasma creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) with CDDP continuously increased up to day 4. Alanyl-glutamine infusion significantly elevated blood ammonia level of CDDP rats with the peak on day 3, although the same dose did not change that of control rats. CONCLUSION These results indicates that CDDP enhances the increase in blood ammonia level by glutamine supplementation without correlating with primary parameters for hepatic/renal dysfunction.