cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Psychological correlates of purging disorder as compared with other eating disorders: an exploratory investigation.

Objective: Keel et al.3 introduced the diagnostic category of purging disorder (PD), an eating disorder characterized by recurring purging behaviors in the absence of objective binges. The current study sought to investigate psychological correlates among individuals with a lifetime diagnosis of PD as compared to those with other eating disorders, and those with no eating disorder. Method: The current sample included 294 ethnically diverse undergraduate women. Subjects diagnosed with different types of eating disorders [i.e., anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), binge eating disorder (BED), and purging disorder (PD)] were compared to one another, as well as to individuals with no eating disorder on a variety of indices. Results: Women with PD displayed similar levels of drive for thinness as women with AN and BED. Individuals with BN and BED exhibited anxiety levels significantly higher than those with PD. Those with PD displayed levels of impulsivity that were significantly higher than those of individuals with AN or BED, but significantly lower than those of individuals with BN. They also displayed similar levels of bulimic symptoms as those with AN and BED; however, analysis of item 53 on the EDI revealed that those with PD had similar levels of purging ideation as those with BN. Women with any eating disorder diagnosis were more likely to have a comorbid Axis I disorder than women in the non-eating disorder group. Conclusion: Our data replicated and extended the findings of Keel et al. and gave further support to the validity and distinctiveness of PD. © 2008 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
Marital conflicts in the home when children are present versus absent.

Characteristics of marital conflict when children (8-16 years) were present versus absent were compared on the basis of 47 mothers' and fathers' reports during a 15-day period. Mothers described 669 incidents of marital conflict, and fathers described 551 incidents. About two thirds of the conflicts occurred in children's absence. Contrary to predictions, conflicts in which children were present were more negative (e.g., more negative emotions, more destructive conflict tactics) and more often about children than were child-absent conflicts. Although parents may attempt to protect children from conflict exposure, children tend to be exposed to a relatively hostile and emotionally negative subset of the marital conflicts that occur in the home.
SYSTEMATIC CHEMICAL EFFECTS OBSERVED IN ATOMIC X-RAY ABSORPTION FINE STRUCTURE

We report here, for the first time, large and systematic chemical effects on the “atomic” X-ray absorption fine structure (AXAFS) for a series of Pt−Ru alloys as a function of the composition and for an in situ Pt electrode as the electrode potential is increased. These changes are seen in the Fourier transform of the normal χ(E) function in XAFS, where the AXAFS produces a peak at the characteristic atomic radius. Curved-wave multiple-scattering cluster calculations (FEFF6) confirm the changes with alloy composition and electrode potential, although the theory overestimates the size of the changes. Obvious reasons for this are given. The systematic chemical effects and agreement with theoretical predictions provide strong support for their interpretation as AXAFS features, rather than multielectronic excitations. The AXAFS structure and its interpretation offers the promise of providing a new tool for observing in situ electronic (AXAFS) and geometric (normal EXAFS) structural changes simultaneously in c...
Flow Patterns Associated with the Steady Movement of a Solid/Liquid/Fluid Contact Line

Flow patterns in the immediate vicinity of a moving solid/liquid/fluid contact line were determined using a video-imaging experimental technique. Experimental flow patterns are shown to depend on the apparent dynamic contact angle at or near the moving contact line and the viscosity ratio between the displaced and the displacing fluid. A wide range of viscosity ratios and the entire range of dynamic contact angles was covered. The experimental results show qualitative discrepancies with published theoretical results.
Who Gets What from Social Security? Analyzing the Redistributive Effects of Government Transfer Programs

The authors examine the redistributional effect of social security (OASI) by tracing payments and benefits over a person's lifetime. One-year intergenerational transfer measures distort the true redistributional effects.
The functions of semispinalis capitis and splenius capitis muscles: an electromyographic study.

The functions of the normal semispinalis capitis and splenius capitis muscles of fifteen subjects were evaluated electromyographically with bipolar fine-wire electrodes. The voltage-output data were integrated and analyzed by computer and showed that the main function of semispinalis capitis is limited to extension of the head. However, splenius capitis both extends the head and rotates it to its own side.
Total variation blind deconvolution

We present a blind deconvolution algorithm based on the total variational (TV) minimization method proposed by Acar and Vogel (1994). The motivation for regularizing with the TV norm is that it is extremely effective for recovering edges of images as well as some blurring functions, e.g., motion blur and out-of-focus blur. An alternating minimization (AM) implicit iterative scheme is devised to recover the image and simultaneously identify the point spread function (PSF). Numerical results indicate that the iterative scheme is quite robust, converges very fast (especially for discontinuous blur), and both the image and the PSF can be recovered under the presence of high noise level. Finally, we remark that PSFs without sharp edges, e.g., Gaussian blur, can also be identified through the TV approach.
Percutaneous sacroplasty using CT guidance for pain palliation in sacral insufficiency fractures

Background and objective Sacroplasty has emerged as a treatment option for patients with painful osteoporotic sacral insufficiency fractures. We report short-term outcomes in a consecutive cohort of patients treated with sacroplasty. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 57 patients treated with sacroplasty for painful osteoporotic sacral fractures at our institution between 2004 and 2011. An 11-point numerical rating scale pain score was recorded at rest and at activity pre- and post-procedure. Opioids prescribed to the patient both pre- and post-procedure were recorded. Results Mean duration of pain prior to sacroplasty was 3 weeks (IQR 2–5). Procedural complications were minimal. Median post-procedure follow-up time was 2.5 weeks (IQR 1–5) among 45 patients with available data. Thirty-seven (82%) of the 45 patients experienced a numerical or descriptive decrease from initial pain at follow-up. Median activity pain scores collected from 13 patients decreased from 10 (IQR 8.5–10) pre-procedure to 6 (IQR 4–6.8) post-procedure (p Conclusions Our series demonstrates that sacroplasty is a safe and effective treatment in patients with painful osteoporotic insufficiency fractures.
Calculation of molecular electric polarizabilities and dipole moments. III. BH molecule

We use a variation–perturbation method to calculate the electric polarizabilities and the electric dipole moment of the LiH molecule. We obtain 4.455 for the perpendicular polarizability and 4.001 (×10−24 cm3) for the parallel polarizability. Our result for the electric dipole moment at equilibrium nuclear distance is 5.866, which is in excellent agreement with the experimental value 5.828 debye units.
Dissociation of analgesic and rewarding effects of endomorphin-1 in rats

The mu-receptor is the primary mediator of the effects of morphine and the endogenous opiates, endomorphin-1 and endomorphin-2. Here we demonstrate a dissociation of the analgesic and rewarding effects of endomorphin-1 in rats. Tail-flick results revealed that endomorphin-1 produced significant analgesic effects within 10-min after injection. However, it failed to show reward properties in the standard 45- min conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm or in an abbreviated 10-min pairing which paralleled the time frame of the tail-flick findings. Morphine induced both analgesia and reward. Endomorphin-1 therefore is the first mu opiate shown to produce potent analgesia in the absence of reward behavior, and thus may have significant clinical potential.
Mechanisms and Meaning Structures

This article proposes a model of cultural mechanisms based on the premises of structuralist cultural sociology and symbolic interactionism. I argue that the models of cultural mechanisms provided by the developing analytical sociology movement are inadequate, while the dominant theories of culture in action from cultural sociology are limited by their adoption of the individual as the primordial unit of analysis. I instead propose a model of culture in action that takes social situations as its primordial unit and that understands culture as a system of meanings that actors laminate into the situations they face through interactive processes of interpretation and performance. I then illustrate and develop the model through an analysis of the Great Stink of London in 1858, a sewerage crisis that triggered significant institutional transformations.
Comparing the roles of community-living persons and patient populations.

Objectives. This studv compares the occupational role profile ofCt large sample ofcommunity-living persons without disabilities with the profile 0/ a population of palients with psychosocial or physical disabilities and suggests areas ofoccupational therapy intervention. Methods. The Role Checklist was used to compare the roles of1, 020 communi~v-!ivinR persons without disabilities with the roles 0/292 adults with phvsical or psychosocial disabilities. SpeC/iical/p, communitv­ living persons were matched to the entire patient group, a group ofpatients with psychosocial d)'~/unc­ lion, and a group ofpatients with phl'sical dvs/imc­ tion to compare the groups in terms of their past, pres­ ent, andfuture role profiles and the value they assigned to those roles. Results. There were sigmji"ccLnt dUlerences in the rypes ofroles identified. In general, the patients identi­ fied involvement in fewer present roles than the community-living persons. Dif/erences between the two groups also appeared in the identification offu­ ture roles and value 0/ those roles. Conclusions. Roles appear to be aJleeted by dis­ ability. whether physical or psvchosocial in nature If role partiCipation is seen as part ofthe occupational functioning 0/ the person, occupational therapy needs to address this area.
Laparoscopy-guided subhepatic cholecystostomy: a feasibility study in swine.

Surgical cholecystostomy rather than urgent cholecystectomy has become an acceptable alternative in the management of severely ill patients with acute gallbladder disease.1 However, in this high-risk group, surgical cholecystostomy has been associated with a high mortality rate.2, 3 This has prompted exploration of other avenues of gallbladder drainage in patients with multi-organ failure or other conditions that preclude the prolonged use of general anesthesia. Ultrasound-guided transhepatic cholecystostomy has been used to drain the gallbladder in critically ill patients.4-6 This technique has the disadvantage of potential bile leakage, liver laceration, and intraperitoneal hemorrhage.7 Visualization of the gallbladder is easily carried out at laparoscopy,8 and subhepatic puncture of the gallbladder would obviate the need for prolonged general anesthesia or imaging techniques.9 The purpose ofthis study was to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopyguided subhepatic cholecystostomy using a newly adapted drainage system.
A Comprehensive Study of the Observed Spectral Decay in Strong-Motion Accelerations Recorded in Guerrero, Mexico

The Fourier spectra of S waves on strong-motion accelerograms fall off rapidly at the highest frequencies. Anderson and Hough (1984) suggested characterizing the high-frequency fall-off as A ( f ) ∼ exp(– πκf ), defining the observed rate of fall-off, κ , as the spectral decay parameter. It has been proposed that variability in κ results from variable near-surface attenuation and that estimates of κ from small- to moderate-magnitude events apply to the largest earthquakes. No systematic investigation into the behavior of κ over a broad magnitude range has been previously undertaken. The Guerrero Accelerograph Array has recorded enough strong-motion data from earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from under 3.0 to 8.0 to achieve a high level of statistical significance. The records are chosen to minimize the influence of the corner frequency on the spectral shape, and the κ values are estimated from the high-frequency slopes alone. This study finds that the terms in the model κ = κ site + κ event reduce the misfit significantly, with the κ site and κ event contributing similarly to the total κ value. Evidence suggests that κ event results primarily from source characteristics as opposed to propagation path effects. The absence of a statistically significant dependence of κ on epicentral distance is observed in the Guerrero region. Measuring κ over the frequency bands from 10 to 30 Hz and 10 to 45 Hz reveals increasing κ event with magnitude. When κ is measured from 25 to 45 Hz, κ event is not correlated with magnitude, although its role in error reduction remains significant. κ event also varies systematically with focal mechanism: of all M ≥5.1 earthquakes with available focal mechanisms, κ event is on average 4.5 msec less in normal-faulting earthquakes than in thrusting events.
Folklore linked to pregnancy and birth in Nigeria.

As a part of a safe motherhood project implemented in eastern Nigeria between 1992 and 1996, in-house interviews were conducted with rural women and traditional birth attendants in the seven states of eastern Nigeria. The overall project was designed to contribute toward the reduction of maternal mortality and morbidity through the involvement of community leaders and women’s organizations in women’s health activities in rural Nigeria. It also focused on identifying and addressing some of the underlying cultural factors in maternal mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. Findings from the interview show that women in rural eastern Nigeria still hold many folklore beliefs about pregnancy and childbirth, and some of these beliefs lead to delay in the referral of complications to hospitals.
Brief Report: Parent Perceptions of Hypoglycemic Symptoms of Youth With Diabetes; Disease Disclosure Minimizes Risk of Negative Evaluations

Objective Based on a theoretical model, this study explored the effects that the disclosure of diabetes has on parental perceptions of a hypothetical child experiencing hypoglycemia. Methods Parents (N = 610) first read vignettes that varied in a 2 x 2 design (Male vs. Female Character x Preventative Disclosure of Illness vs. Nondisclosure) and then answered several questions regarding the hypothetical child, resulting in four subscales that were validated using confirmatory factor analysis. Results Disclosure of diabetes significantly increased perceptions of a medical problem, decreased suspicions of drug use, and presented a lower risk of parental restrictions on future contact with their child. Conclusions Individuals who disclose their diabetes may prevent negative social consequences and restrictions on social contact. Those who choose not to disclose may risk having a hypoglycemic event perceived as a drug or alcohol problem, which may ultimately interfere with appropriate medical intervention in a hypoglycemic event.
Celiac Disease as a Model for the Evolution of Multifactorial Disease in Humans

Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial chronic inflammatory condition that results in injury of the mucosal lining of the small intestine upon ingestion of wheat gluten and related proteins from barley and rye. Although the exact mechanisms leading to CD are not fully understood, the genetic basis of CD has been relatively well characterized. In this review we briefly review the history of discovery, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and current understanding of the genetics underlying CD risk. Then, we discuss what is known about the current distribution and evolutionary history of genes underlying CD risk in light of other evolutionary models of disease. Specifically, we conclude that the set of loci underlying CD risk did not cohesively evolve as a response to a single past selection event such as the development of agriculture. Rather, deterministic and stochastic evolutionary processes have both contributed to the present distribution of variation in CD risk loci. Selection has shaped some components of this network, but this selection appears to have occurred at different points in the past. Other parts of the CD risk network have likely arisen due to stochastic processes such as genetic drift.
EXERGY ANALYSIS AND ENTROPY GENERATION MINIMIZATION OF THERMOELECTRIC WASTE HEAT RECOVERY FOR ELECTRONICS

Energy recovery from waste heat is attracting more and more attention. All electronic systems consume electricity but only a fraction of it is used for information processing and for human interfaces, such as displays. Lots of energy is dissipated as heat. There are some discussions on waste heat recovery from the electronic systems such as laptop computers. However the efficiency of energy conversion for such utilization is not very attractive due to the maximum allowable temperature of the heat source devices. This leads to very low limits of Carnot efficiency. In contrast to thermodynamic heat engines, Brayton cycle, free piston Stirling engines, etc., authors previously reported that thermoelectric (TE) can be a cost-effective device if the TE and the heat sink are co-optimized, and if some parasitic effects could be reduced. Since the heat already exists and it is free, the additional cost and energy payback time are the key measures to evaluate the value of the energy recovery system. In this report, we will start with the optimum model of the TE power generation system. Then, theoretical maximum output, cost impact and energy payback are evaluated in the examples of electronics system. Entropy Generation Minimization (EGM) is a method already familiar in thermal management of electronics. The optimum thermoelectric waste heat recovery design is compared with the EGM approach. Exergy analysis evaluates the useful energy flow in the optimum TE system. This comprehensive analysis is used to predict the potential future impact of the TE material development, as the dimensionless figure-of-merit (ZT) is improved.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Systematic Mutagenesis of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae MLH1 Gene Reveals Distinct Roles for Mlh1p in Meiotic Crossing Over and in Vegetative and Meiotic Mismatch Repair

In eukaryotic cells, DNA mismatch repair is initiated by a conserved family of MutS (Msh) and MutL (Mlh) homolog proteins. Mlh1 is unique among Mlh proteins because it is required in mismatch repair and for wild-type levels of crossing over during meiosis. In this study, 60 new alleles of MLH1 were examined for defects in vegetative and meiotic mismatch repair as well as in meiotic crossing over. Four alleles predicted to disrupt the Mlh1p ATPase activity conferred defects in all functions assayed. Three mutations, mlh1-2, -29, and -31, caused defects in mismatch repair during vegetative growth but allowed nearly wild-type levels of meiotic crossing over and spore viability. Surprisingly, these mutants did not accumulate high levels of postmeiotic segregation at the ARG4 recombination hotspot. In biochemical assays, Pms1p failed to copurify with mlh1-2, and two-hybrid studies indicated that this allele did not interact with Pms1p and Mlh3p but maintained wild-type interactions with Exo1p and Sgs1p. mlh1-29 and mlh1-31 did not alter the ability of Mlh1p-Pms1p to form a ternary complex with a mismatch substrate and Msh2p-Msh6p, suggesting that the region mutated in these alleles could be responsible for signaling events that take place after ternary complex formation. These results indicate that mismatches formed during genetic recombination are processed differently than during replication and that, compared to mismatch repair functions, the meiotic crossing-over role of MLH1 appears to be more resistant to mutagenesis, perhaps indicating a structural role for Mlh1p during crossing over.
Airway obstruction is common but unsuspected in patients admitted to a general medicine service.

Study objectives: Obstructive lung disease (OLD) is a worldwide health problem with major impact on health and economics, and can be easily diagnosed by spirometry. Recent expert panels have emphasized the underreporting and underrecognition of this condition. The goal of this study was to measure the prevalence of airway obstruction in patients admitted to an urban teaching hospital and to determine the frequency of a diagnosis of OLD at admission or discharge. Methods: Prospective study of 153 patients admitted to a medicine service at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD. Patients completed bedside spirometry and a questionnaire. Results: Twenty-six percent of patients had airway obstruction (FEV1/FVC 70% predicted), 30% of patients with moderate airway obstruction (FEV1 50 to 69% predicted), 33% of patients with severe airway obstruction (FEV1 30 to 49% predicted), and 89% of patients with very severe airway obstruction (FEV1 < 30% predicted). Only 40% of patients with airway obstruction were receiving bronchodilator medication at hospital admission or discharge. Conclusions: Airway obstruction is common in hospitalized patients and is usually undiagnosed and untreated. Spirometry may be a useful component of the examination of hospitalized medical patients to identify OLD. (CHEST 2004; 125:106 –111)
Device modeling for MOS devices at low temperatures

An attempt was made to develop a two-dimensional model for solving Poisson's equation over a temperature range of 50-350 K for MOS devices. This required the incorporation of temperature dependencies in Poisson's equation relevant to MOS transistors. To solve the system of nonlinear differential Poisson's equations, the program developed uses linearization techniques in conjunction with Newton's method and the successive over relaxation method. The linearizing techniques replace nonlinear equations with linear approximations derived from the truncation of the expansion of the nonlinear terms. The results of the numerical analysis consist of the printout of electrostatic potential and the carrier densities for electrons and holes as a function of each data point's position within the device. >
V TH shift mechanism in dysprosium (Dy) incorporated HfO 2 gate nMOS devices

We discuss temperature-dependent Dy diffusion and the diffusion-driven Dy-silicate formation process in Dy incorporated HfO 2 . The Dy-induced dipoles are closely related to the Dy-silicate formation at the high-k/SiO 2 interfaces since the V FB shift in Dy 2 O 3 is caused by the dipole and coincides with the Dy-silicate formation. Dipole formation is a thermally activated process, and more dipoles are formed at a higher temperature with a given Dy content. The Dy-silicate related bonding structure at the interface is associated with the strength of the Dy dipole moment, and becomes dominant in controlling the V FB /V TH shift during the high temperature annealing in the Dy-Hf-O/SiO 2 gate oxide system. Dy-induced dipole reduces the degradation of the electron mobility. Charge trapping characteristics in relation to the stress-induced flatband shift and SILC are discussed with a band diagram. The higher effective barrier height of Dy 2 O 3 , which is around 2.32 eV, calculated from the F-N plot, accounts for the reduced leakage current in Dy incorporated HfO 2 nMOS devices. The lower trap generation rate by the reduced hole trap density and the reduced hole tunneling of the Dy-doped HfO 2 dielectric demonstrate the high dielectric breakdown strength by weakening the charge trapping and defect generation during the stress.
Bronchitis and Pneumonia

The incidence, morbidity, and mortality of both bronchitis and pneumonia are high in older adults and increase with age.
Linking marital violence, mother-child/father-child aggression, and child behavior problems

Previous research indicates that observation of marital violence has a deleterious impact on children's adjustment. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying this relationship. The present study examined the relationships between observation of marital violence, mother-child aggression, father-child aggression, and child behavior problems in a sample of 185 children (ages 7 to 13) and their mothers who were residing at battered women shelters. A significant positive association was found between amount of marital violence witnessed and father-child aggression. However, the correlation between the amount of marital violence witnessed and mother-child aggression was not significant. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that both the amount of marital violence witnessed as well as mother-child aggression were significantly related to child behavior problems, even when controlling for the effects of child age, race, and father status (i.e., whether the mother's partner was the biological father or stepfather/cohabitee). Family violence variables were better predictors of girls' rather than boys' behavior problems, particularly externalizing behavior problem scores. The lack of significance between father-child aggression and child behavior problems, as well as the implications of the findings, are discussed.
HUMAN ASPECTS OF BIOCLIMATOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION

The degree of livability depends on local climate as well as on socio-economic and hygienic conditions. Age, profession, health and wealth are also important. In cool climates air temperature is still the leading parameter. For warm moist conditions the “desert equivalent temperature” (D.E.T.) is defined. The sum of heating degree days plus cooling degree days is a measure of climatic hardship. Airborne diseases and noxious aerosols are further controls. Solar radiation is frequently overrated. In “health resorts” the vacation effect might override the climatic effect. People in the U.S.A. who are entirely free to move permanently to places of their choice prefer the Cs climate.
Damage to Structures Due to Floor Shocks

The study was made to determine the factors that affect the impending damage and failure of structural bent-type structures due to pulse-type floor acceleration shocks. Some of these factors are the natural frequency, the elastic limit, ultimate strength, the peak acceleration ratio and the normalized pulse duration. The effects of these factors are shown by means of critical structural isodamage curves which were developed and constructed in this study.
Evaluation of the Prevention Programs That Work Curriculum to Teach Use of Public Health Evidence to Community Practitioners

Training on use of evidence may increase the adoption of evidence-based strategies in communities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Prevention Programs That Work training. This article summarizes the training modules and evaluation results from three trainings conducted in Spring 2009. The training teaches practitioners from community-based organizations to locate, choose, adopt or adapt, and evaluate an evidence-based program. Participants completed a pretest and posttest that covered competencies related to use of evidence, demographics, and feedback on training. A total of 47 participants attended three trainings. They represented coordinators, directors, nurses, and outreach workers. Participants showed the greatest increases in the following competencies: locate evidence-based resources, narrow search results of potential programs or strategies to reflect programmatic specifics, define steps in the adaptation process, and discuss factors during each phase of implementation. According to participants, the most useful aspects of the training content were the areas that covered program implementation, adaptation, and evaluation. A workshop can increase competencies to use evidence-based strategies among community practitioners. Building competencies is a critical initial step in promoting the dissemination of evidence-based strategies and helping practitioners use a systematic process to select an evidence-based intervention and implement the programs with fidelity.
Democracy: Electoral and Athenian

The third-century Christian convert, Tertullian, once asked, “What has Athens to do with Jerusalem?” A twentieth-century American political scientist might ask, What has Athens to do with Washington? In both cases the answer is not as obvious as the rhetorical question would imply. Historically, revelation's identity depended on its contrast with reason even as it sought reason's discredit. American democracy has always been dogged by a so-called Founding whose Fathers never intended a democracy and were scathing in their opinion of “the turbulent democracies of ancient Greece” (Madison 1961, No. 14, 84).Tocqueville claimed to have discovered in America a democracy “more perfect than antiquity had dared dream of” (Tocqueville 1961, vol. 1(1), 34). His comparison was between Periclean Athens of the fifth century (BCE) and the New England township of the Jacksonian era. His intention was to show that American democracy was superior to any of the ancient democracies because it was stabler, more law-abiding, and respectful of property rights. Here Tocqueville was simultaneously reaffirming the virtually unanimous judgment, from Plato to the authors of The Federalist, about the innate tendency of democracy toward anarchy and expropriation of the rich, and attempting to present America as the great exception.
Resistance to the growth of cancer induced in rats by injection of autolyzed rat tissue.

It is a fairly well established fact that an immunity, or rather a resistance to the growth of a transplantable tumor may be induced in white mice and rats by artificial means. This acquired resistance is of a peculiar type and is not similar to the usual form of the anti-bacterial immunity. Clowes and Baeslack's assertion, that the serum of recovered mice cures cancer in other mice, has received no confirmation. Nor has any other known method of detecting the existence of immunity in an organism met with success in the animals refractory to growth of implanted cancer.While the best manner of immunizing an animal against tumors consists in a previous unsuccessful inoculation of a tumor, this resistance does not appear to be specific. Ehrlich observed that an animal made resistant to a certain class of tumors, carcinoma for instance, is also resistant to the growth of an implantable sarcoma. Furthermore, a resistance may be artifically induced by previous inoculation of normal tissue of the same species of...
Passive Electrical Monitoring Of Aerobic And Anaerobic Processes Using Septic Systems As An Analog

Using anaerobic and aerobic septic systems as analogs, we examined whether the passive electrical potential (SP) method can be used to detect and monitor shallow biochemical reactions. High-resolution SP surveys conducted with nonpolarizing electrodes can reliably detect potential differences as small as a few mV over relatively small areas, suggesting that the technique can find wider use in monitoring biodegradation processes, mapping effluent plumes, and identifying local preferential infiltration areas. Surface SP measurements appear to respond to changes in the oxidation-reduction potential in shallow reactors, correlating best with changes in dissolved oxygen concentration and measured electrical potential within the subsurface reactors. Among the available electrode choices, including those made of carbon, low-grade steel, stainless steel, and copper, only nonpolarizing electrodes such as the copper–copper sulfate types provide the measurement stability necessary to achieve high-resolution results.
Nitric oxide regulates HCO3- and Na+ transport by a cGMP-mediated mechanism in the kidney proximal tubule

The effects of nitric oxide (NO) on blood pressure and renal hemodynamics are well established, but those of NO on renal tubule HCO3- and Na+ transport are not fully understood. In this study, we combined renal clearance and in situ microperfusion techniques to investigate the effects of NO on the renal excretion of Na (FE(Na%)) and the rates of renal tubule absorption of fluid (J(V)) and bicarbonate (J(HCO3)) in the rat kidney. Administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 6 mg/kg iv bolus) did not change mean blood pressure and glomerular filtration rate significantly. However, L-NAME significantly increased urine flow rate and FE(Na%), and these effects were maintained over a 60-min period. Addition of L-NAME markedly decreased both J(V) and J(HCO3) in the proximal tubule. In contrast, addition of 1 microM sodium nitroprusside (SNP) or S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) significantly increased both J(V) and J(HCO3). Similar stimulation was also observed when 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-BrcGMP, 1 microM) was added to the luminal perfusate. The stimulatory effects of SNP and 8-BrcGMP on J(V) and J(HCO3) were not additive. The increments in J(V) and J(HCO3) due to SNP were abolished by the Na+/H+ exchange blocker ethylisopropylamiloride and the guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue. These results indicate that NO stimulates proximal tubule Na+ and HCO3- transport through a cGMP-linked pathway in the kidney proximal tubule.
Yersinia type III effectors perturb host innate immune responses

The innate immune system is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. Innate immune cells recognize molecular patterns from the pathogen and mount a response to resolve the infection. The production of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, phagocytosis, and induced programmed cell death are processes initiated by innate immune cells in order to combat invading pathogens. However, pathogens have evolved various virulence mechanisms to subvert these responses. One strategy utilized by Gram-negative bacterial pathogens is the deployment of a complex machine termed the type III secretion system (T3SS). The T3SS is composed of a syringe-like needle structure and the effector proteins that are injected directly into a target host cell to disrupt a cellular response. The three human pathogenic Yersinia spp. (Y. pestis, Y. enterocolitica, and Y. pseudotuberculosis) are Gram-negative bacteria that share in common a 70 kb virulence plasmid which encodes the T3SS. Translocation of the Yersinia effector proteins (YopE, YopH, YopT, YopM, YpkA/YopO, and YopP/J) into the target host cell results in disruption of the actin cytoskeleton to inhibit phagocytosis, downregulation of proinflammatory cytokine/chemokine production, and induction of cellular apoptosis of the target cell. Over the past 25 years, studies on the Yersinia effector proteins have unveiled tremendous knowledge of how the effectors enhance Yersinia virulence. Recently, the long awaited crystal structure of YpkA has been solved providing further insights into the activation of the YpkA kinase domain. Multisite autophosphorylation by YpkA to activate its kinase domain was also shown and postulated to serve as a mechanism to bypass regulation by host phosphatases. In addition, novel Yersinia effector protein targets, such as caspase-1, and signaling pathways including activation of the inflammasome were identified. In this review, we summarize the recent discoveries made on Yersinia effector proteins and their contribution to Yersinia pathogenesis.
An Assessment of the Role of Alpha and Beta Ghylomicra in Hyperlipemic States.

SummaryPlasma chylomicra of fasting subjects with hyperlipemia were separated into α and β types by PVP gradient flocculation. Subjects with diabetes, CHO-induced hyperlipemia and the nephrotic syndrome had predominantly or exclusively β chylomicra (Group 1), while those with fat-induced hyperlipemia and severe hyperlipemia associated with alcoholism and probable pancreatitis had predominantly α chylomicra (Group 2). Consideration of the diet of each subject and of serial observations of a subject from each group during dietary manipulation leads to these conclusions: β chylomicronemia occurs primarily because of increased synthesis. Clearing may be grossly normal or moderately decreased at moderately elevated TG levels, and may become severely impaired at high TG levels, due to these levels per se. α-Chylomicronemia occurs primarily because of impaired clearing but is regularly accompanied by retention of small quantities of β chylomicra.
Intoxications from the Seas: Ciguatera, Scombroid, and Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning

Sporadic cases and outbreaks of intoxications borne by fish and shellfish have increased in frequency during recent years. Ciguatera, scombroid, and paralytic shellfish poisoning account for nearly 16 per cent of all reported foodborne outbreaks of disease in the United States. Fishborne ciguatera and paralytic shellfish poisoning are characterized by gastrointestinal and neuromuscular manifestations attributable to toxins of dinoflagellates. These toxins impair sodium transport in cell membranes. Treatment is primarily supportive. Scombroid fish intoxication resembles histamine poisoning and may be treated effectively with antihistamines or cimetidine. Prevention of these intoxications at present depends upon avoidance of potential vectors.
The effect of energy on the adoption of conservation tillage in the United States

The impact of energy on the adoption of conservation tillage is of special importance in addressing concerns about the effect of agricultural production on the environment in the United States. It is the subject of this paper. After establishing that a relationship exists between the price of energy and the adoption of conservation tillage via cointegration techniques, the relationship is quantified. It is shown that while the real price of crude oil, the proxy used for the price of energy, does not affect the rate of adoption of conservation tillage, it does impact the extent to which it is used. Finally, there is no structural instability in the relationship between the relative use of conservation tillage and the real price of crude oil over the period 1963–1997.
On the Same Page? How Asymmetric Buyer–Supplier Relationships Affect Opportunism and Performance

Research on buyer–supplier relationships (BSRs) has often focused on only one side of the relationship and, thus, has tended to overlook asymmetries. Yet, a buyer (supplier) may often deal with a bigger supplier (buyer) or one that has higher levels of trust, respect, and reciprocity. Therefore, we examined how two types of asymmetries—size and relational capital—affect perceived opportunism and performance. We used dyadic data from 106 buyers and their matched suppliers gathered from a survey and an archival database. The results demonstrate that the degree and direction of both asymmetries affect the BSR. Our results also reveal that an imbalance of relational capital in a firm's favor may have the opposite effect from that intended. In other words, the firm's counterpart perceives more, rather than less, firm opportunism. The results also suggest that a buyer observes lower benefits in the presence of size asymmetry, whereas the supplier's perception of benefits is unaffected. Thus, our research represents a significant step forward in understanding BSRs and asymmetries by (i) bringing attention to two key asymmetries inherent in BSRs and (ii) showing that these asymmetries are not unidirectional in their influence on perceived opportunism and performance.
Defect Detection in Concrete Bridge Decks Using Radar

This paper summarizes the findings of a study on the use of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for nondestructive evaluation of concrete bridge decks. GPR has been found to be a proven technique for condition assessment of bridge decks [1]. However, most GPR studies have involved testing in the field, where the conditions are complex [2]. The objective of the present study is to assess the effect of isolated anomalies on the radar waveforms and determine the capabilities and limitations of the GPR technique under controlled laboratory conditions. Also, a radar data analysis model previously developed by Halabe et al. [3] was further improved, and its accuracy of prediction was compared to the actual conditions existing in the laboratory specimens.
High temperature energy storage based on hot air turbine and pebble-heater technology

The HiTES energy storage is a high temperature thermal electric energy storage. It consists of a heating coil, a heat storage and a recuperated hot air turbine. HiTES can be applied to smooth out intermittency due to renewable energy sources, for load control, or other flexibility options. The low investment cost and the high efficiency make the HiTES energy storage economically feasible even today. The economic feasibility can be increased by improvements of the round trip efficiency and by decreasing investment costs. For that reason several improvements scenarios were analyzed. The most correct comparison between different energy storage systems is based on the levelized cost of the electricity storage — LCOES. It shows that HiTES is more economic than lithium ion batteries. The paper gives a short parametric analysis of the main parameters that influence the levelized cost of energy storage, like the specific investment cost, the round-trip efficiency and the price of the input electricity.
Deterministic Solvers for Nonlinear Collisional Kinetic Flows: A Conservative Spectral Scheme for Boltzmann Type Flows

Abstract We present an overview of deterministic solvers for the Boltzmann and Landau equations inspired by their Fourier space representation as weighted convolutional forms, where the later can be obtained as a grazing collision limit of the former. This presentation offers an introduction to the area and elaborates on recent results for conservative spectral Lagrangian schemes applied to several applications ranging from homogeneous flows for Coulomb potentials given by the Landau equation by an approximating of a corresponding Boltzmann model with grazing transition scattering rates, to a full conservative approach for Vlasov–Poisson–Landau system for electron–ion dynamics. This conservative method is enforced by a Lagrangian constrained optimization problem that and conservation correction estimates that give place to semidiscrete error estimates and long-time convergence to statistical equilibrium states given by Maxwellians distributions.
The effective use of communication tools during a long-term campus emergency

This article examines the experience of the campus community at Kean University in Union, NJ before, during, and after the landfall of Hurricane Sandy in October 2012. Like any university during an emergency situation, the campus utilized traditional and social media outlets and its campus alert system to convey information about the status of campus, classes, and other related issues. The makeup and structure of Kean and of Sandy’s effects on the region presented issues related to these communication efforts as students, faculty, and staff faced their own personal difficulties that potentially hindered their ability to receive this information. The article presents results from a campus-wide survey that generally shows satisfaction with the effort made by campus leadership when communicating, but does outline the limitations of relying on social media outlets (such as Twitter and Facebook), campus alert systems, and campus Web pages for transmitting this information during a time when access to these sources was limited to a large amount of the campus population. As such, those that were not satisfied felt that the information was delivered inefficiently despite the use of communication tools designed to promote efficient delivery of information. These unsatisfied respondents felt the steps taken by university leadership did not grasp the magnitude of effects beyond campus boundaries and added stress during an already stressful period. Additionally, the university’s use of satellite campuses led to further issues as information about particular locations was not always accurately conveyed. Overall, the results of the survey and the experience of the respondents demonstrate the importance of flexibility and clarity in planning and communication efforts when long-term catastrophes occur in order to promote a culture of preparedness on campus.
Earlier snowmelt accompanied by warmer soil temperatures in mid-latitude aspen forest and subalpine meadow: Implications for soil carbon

An advance in snowmelt timing in seasonally snow covered ecosystems has a wide range of potential impacts on plant and soil processes. Plants may respond to earlier melt through changes in phenology and altered allocation of resources to growth and reproduction, and earlier snowmelt may impact active pools of soil C such as microbial biomass and dissolved organic C (DOC). In subalpine aspen forests and open meadows in the Wasatch Plateau of the western Rocky Mountains, we manipulated snowmelt timing by adding dust to the snow surface. We obtained a treatment-induced snow-free interval of 6 to 22 days (3% to 11% reduction in snow-covered days). We observed the growth of early and mid-season herbaceous species, measuring above ground biomass, flower and seed counts, and seed mass. We also monitored microbial biomass, DOC, and soil respiration in the days and weeks following snowmelt. We observed generally warmer soil temperatures in the early snowmelt plots compared to controls. However, we found no difference in microbial biomass C or DOC following snowmelt and we found no legacy effect in growing season soil respiration as a result of earlier snowmelt. After three years of repeated treatments, total soil organic C remained unchanged between treatment and control plots. Although earlier snowmelt is likely to have a variety of impacts on subalpine ecosystems, we found no change in plant biomass or reproductive allocation and we found that carbon pools and fluxes were not perturbed by earlier snowmelt. A common expectation is that earlier snowmelt will lead to more frequent freeze-thaw cycles in soils, and studies have shown that freeze-thaw events can have significant but temporary impacts on soil C efflux. This study indicates that subalpine plants and soils may be at least partially buffered from some of the anticipated effects of earlier snowmelt. One direction of continuing research may be to identify adaptive buffers in subalpine ecosystems, an understanding of which may be useful in anticipating and responding to future climate change.
ZenSketch: A Sketch-based Game For Improving Line Work

Having quality line work is a fundamental skill for designers, architects, and engineers to have when sketching concepts and ideating. Construction lines and perspective lines often form the basis of complex three-dimensional forms in a drawing, and if these lines are ambiguous or poorly drawn, the entire foundation of a drawing can be significantly weakened. We introduce a novel sketch-based game called ZenSketch that encourages quality freehand line work through engaging gameplay. The game utilizes gesture-based sketch recognition and translates features of line work into unique game mechanics. Our evaluation showed that the game was designed well and could improve the player's line work in the dimensions of accuracy, smoothness, and speed.