cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An exploration of smokeless tobacco product nucleic acids: a combined metagenome and metatranscriptome analysis

Smokeless tobacco (ST) products are used worldwide and are a major public health concern. In addition to harmful chemicals found in these products, microbes found in ST products are believed to be responsible for generating harmful tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), the most abundant carcinogens in ST. These microbes also contribute endotoxins and other pro-inflammatory components. A greater understanding of the microbial constituents in these products is sought in order to potentially link select design aspects or manufacturing processes to avoidable increases in harmful constituents. Previous studies looked primarily at bacterial constituents and had not differentiated between viable vs nonviable organisms, so in this study, we sought to use a dual metatranscriptomic and metagenomic analysis to see if differences exist. Using high-throughput sequencing, we observed that there were differences in taxonomic abundances between the metagenome and metatranscriptome, and in the metatranscriptome, we also observed an abundance of plant virus RNA not previously reported in DNA-only studies. We also found in the product tested, that there were no viable bacteria capable of metabolizing nitrate to nitrite. Therefore, the product tested would not be likely to increase TSNAs during shelf storage. We tested only a single product to date using the strategy presented here, but succeeded in demonstrating the value of using of these methods in tobacco products. These results present novel findings from the first combined metagenome and metatranscriptome of a commercial tobacco product.
Kernel-based Approximate Bayesian Inference for Exponential Family Random Graph Models

Bayesian inference for exponential family random graph models (ERGMs) is a doubly-intractable problem because of the intractability of both the likelihood and posterior normalizing factor. Auxiliary variable based Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods for this problem are asymptotically exact but computationally demanding, and are difficult to extend to modified ERGM families. In this work, we propose a kernel-based approximate Bayesian computation algorithm for fitting ERGMs. By employing an adaptive importance sampling technique, we greatly improve the efficiency of the sampling step. Though approximate, our easily parallelizable approach is yields comparable accuracy to state-of-the-art methods with substantial improvements in compute time on multi-core hardware. Our approach also flexibly accommodates both algorithmic enhancements (including improved learning algorithms for estimating conditional expectations) and extensions to non-standard cases such as inference from non-sufficient statistics. We demonstrate the performance of this approach on two well-known network data sets, comparing its accuracy and efficiency with results obtained using the approximate exchange algorithm. Our tests show a wallclock time advantage of up to 50% with five cores, and the ability to fit models in 1/5th the time at 30 cores; further speed enhancements are possible when more cores are available.
White Matter Injury After Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Of the three stroke subtypes, spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has the highest death rate and the poorest prognosis in survivors. Indeed, half of ICH patients die and only 10–20 % return to normal activities of daily living. Although the incidence of spontaneous ICH is estimated at ~10–15 % of all strokes, approximately 2 million patients are affected yearly worldwide. Besides spontaneous ICH, intracerebral bleeds also occur following treatment with thrombolytic agents for ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction. At present, there are no approved pharmacologic or generally accepted surgical treatments.
Condemned to Die: Life Under Sentence of Death

Condemned to Die is a book about life under sentence of death in American prisons. The great majority of condemned prisoners are confined on death rows before they are executed. Death rows typically feature solitary confinement, a harsh regimen that is closely examined in this book. Death rows that feature solitary confinement are most common in states that execute prisoners with regularity, which is to say, where there is a realistic threat that condemned prisoners will be put to death. Less restrictive confinement conditions for condemned prisoners can be found in states where executions are rare. Confinement conditions matter, especially to prisoners, but a central contention of this book is that no regimen of confinement under sentence of death offers its inmates a round of activity that might in any way prepare them for the ordeal they must face in the execution chamber, when they are put to death. In a basic and profound sense, all condemned prisoners are warehoused for death in the shadow of the executioner. Human warehousing, seen most clearly on solitary confinement death rows, violates every tenet of just punishment; no legal or philosophical justification for capital punishment demands or even permits warehousing of prisoners under sentence of death. The punishment is death. There is neither a mandate nor a justification for harsh and dehumanizing confinement before the prisoner is put to death. Yet warehousing for death, of an empty and sometimes brutal nature, is the universal fate of condemned prisoners. The enormous suffering and injustice caused by this human warehousing, rendered in the words of the prisoners themselves, is the subject of this book.
Cost and quality planning for large NASA programs

The Software Cost and Quality Engineering methodology developed over the last two decades at IBM Federal Sector Div. is used to plan the NASA Space Station Data Management System (DMS). An ongoing project to capture this methodology, which is built on a foundation of experiences and lessons learned, has resulted in the development of a PC-based tool that integrates cost and quality forecasting methodologies and data in a consistent manner. This tool, Software Cost and Quality Engineering Starter Set (SCQESS), is being used to assist in the DMS costing exercises. At the same time, DMS planning serves as a forcing function and provides a platform for the continuing, iterative development, calibration, and validation and verification of SCQESS. The data that forms the cost and quality engineering data base is derived from more than 17 years of development of NASA Space Shuttle software, ranging from low criticality, low complexity support tools to highly complex and highly critical onboard software.
Organizational Structure in the Larger Church Setting

Abstract In this paper, I discuss a pair of issues which have emerged during an investigation of administration in the larger church (e.g., over 1000 members) setting. In general, the churches surveyed appear to encounter problems with overly-decentralized structures, where all staff members report to the senior pastor, and with lack of coordination in the Christian Education function. I argue for a taller structure and for use of a professional administrator as methods for overcoming problems.
Lobular Capillary Hemangioma of the Spinal Cord: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Lobular capillary hemangiomas are common, benign, vascular soft-tissue tumors located in the head and neck during the childhood and early adulthood. Report of these lesions in the central nervous system has been anecdotal. The case of one patient treated for spinal cord compression secondary to a capillary hemangioma with elevated proliferation index is presented. A review of the published cases in the English literature is provided, as well as a discussion on our case findings and the management of these lesions in the spinal cord.
Promoting Dialogue on the Transgender Experience in College Courses through Films and Literature

Although transgender individuals have been part of every culture and society in recorded human history, many people today are unaware of gender variant individuals among them and discussions of rights and equality have usually excluded trans people. This lack of recognition and intolerance often makes being transgender today very difficult. Much work remains to be done to educate the public and improve the safety and well-being of trans people. College professors can help to promote understanding of and advocacy for gender variant individuals. This is an overview of one professor's experiences in weaving critical thinking and dialoguing about the transgender experience into two very different college courses through documentaries and/or literature.
The Role of Experience on Consumer E-Commerce

Recent studies suggest that e-shopping appears to be well modeled by technology adoption models, particularly the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). However, e-commerce is fast maturing, and many customers have moved beyond adoption and have become experienced. As e-commerce grows and consumers build experience, it is becoming imperative to develop a better understanding of the role of experience on e-shoppers. This study examines the role of experience on consumers’ intentions to purchase online and their perceptions of usefulness. The model showed a good fit (X 2 =3.96, df=2, X 2 /df=1.98, p=0.14, AGFI=0.97) and a particularly strong prediction of intention to shop (r 2 =.70). Experience has both direct and indirect effects on intention to use and moderating effects on antecedents to intention such as perceived usefulness, playfulness, and self efficacy.
A Survey of Molecular Clouds Associated with Young Open Star Clusters

A major study of the molecular gas surrounding young star clusters is underway. We are using the Columbia University 1. 2—m millimeter-wave telescope to observe emission from the J=l → 0) rotation transition of 12C0 in the vicinities of 128 open star clusters. The survey region around each cluster is at least 10 cluster diameters in size, typically ≳ 5 square degrees. Sensitivity is sufficient to detect lines as weak as 1 K over a range in velocity ± 83 km/s centered on the cluster velocity and with a velocity resolution of 0.65 km/s. Clusters in this sample have well-determined distances ranging from 1 to 5 kpc, and ages ≲ 100 million years (Myr).
Splitting the Difference: Gender and Myth in Ancient Greece and India

Splitting the Difference: Gender and Myth in Ancient Greece and India. Wendy Doniger. Chicago, EL: University of Chicago Press, 1999. 376 pp.
Screening mammograms images for abnormalities developing over time

One technique used in mammogram interpretation is comparison to images of the same breast from previous screening exams. The authors define the problem of comparing corresponding images and present some methods for transforming, or warping, one of the images in a sequence to match another. Three different methods for mammogram image warping are introduced. The methods presented have been implemented and tested on a pair of images which are portions of two mammogram images of the same breast taken two years apart. >
MULTIPLE GENETIC BENEFITS OF FEMALE PROMISCUITY IN A SOCIALLY MONOGAMOUS PASSERINE

The adaptive function of female extrapair mating in socially monogamous passerines is currently debated. In the bluethroat (Luscinia s. svecica), a previous study showed that offspring sired by extrapair males had a higher cell-mediated immunity than their within-pair half siblings, suggesting an immunogenetic benefit of extrapair mating in this species. Here, we expanded that dataset with two more years and investigated the association between extrapair paternity and microsatellite multilocus heterozygosity, in addition to cell-mediated immunity. We found that extrapair offspring were more heterozygous than their within-pair half siblings, and corroborated the previous finding of enhanced cellular immunity in extrapair offspring in this four-year dataset. The increased heterozygosity among extrapair offspring appeared to be a result of extrapair mates being less genetically similar than pair mates, and also less genetically similar than expected by random choice. Together with previous findings in this species, showing that the majority of females participate in extrapair copulations, our results indicate a postcopulatory cryptic female choice of genetically dissimilar males. The enhanced cellular immunity and increased heterozygosity were not related to each other, and hence our results indicate two independent genetic benefits of extrapair mating in the bluethroat.
Business perceptions of the role of billboards in the U.S. economy

Despite the longstanding regulatory debate over outdoor advertising, only a limited number of academic studies have explored why firms use the medium. To give insight on several issues pertaining to the outdoor advertising controversy, this article presents findings from a national survey of billboard users and nonusers. Users believe that billboards have unique advantages that are not offered by other media. Thus, they have more positive views than nonusers of billboards' ability to communicate information at an affordable cost, attract new customers, and reach a targeted local area. Users also believe that billboards serve a different function than on-premise signs, and that other media are poor substitutes for billboards. Unlike nonusers, a majority of billboard users indicate that their company would lose sales if billboards were banned. Small businesses, travel-related businesses, and heavier users of billboards predict a sales decline of approximately 20 percent on average.
Optical organophosphate sensor based upon gold nanoparticle functionalized fumed silica gel.

We report on the creation of a high surface area, chemically selective material for the efficient adsorption of organophosphate and organophosphonate species. Using silica microparticles in conjunction with gold nanoparticles and surface modification chemistry, we have demonstrated a material with a binding constant for organophosphonates and organophosphates (OPPs) of K = 2 × 106 M-1. The binding of OPPs to the modified gold nanoparticles appears as a spectral shift in the gold nanoparticle resonance. The sensitivity of this technique is limited by scattering losses of suspensions of the particles, and we report on how this sensitivity can be recovered to a significant extent by the use of solvents with a refractive index close to that of the silica particles.
The ultracentrifugal and free zone electrophoretic characterization of the neutral soluble proteins of embryonic bovine enamel.

Abstract 1. 1. The neutral soluble proteins of embryonic bovine enamel exist in aqueous solution as a mixture of labile, reversibly equilibrating species. Sedimentation patterns show a number of peaks whose velocities are pH dependent. The relative proportions of the fast and slow moving peaks were found to de dependent on the total protein concentration, pH, salt concentration and solvent. Two peaks are present which have s ° 20, w values of 1 and 24 S at neutral pH, and another peak with an s ° 2-, w of 2 S is present in the alkaline pH region. In 0.1 M supporting electrolyte the sedimentation velocity of the fast-moving peak changes continuously with pH going through a minimum at pH 8.3 and a maximum at neutral pH. In 0.25 M supporting electrolyte the variation with pH is discrete on the alkaline side but remains continuous in the acid range. 2. 2. Electrophoresis patterns in the alkaline region show one major boundary representing at least 90% of the protein and three minor boundaries which appear to represent non-interacting species. In the acid range, the patterns show a greater number of peaks. 3. 3. In 2,4,6 or 8 M urea essentially all of the protein is represented by a single slow moving boundary. This dissociation, as well as that which occurs under relatively mild acid conditions, is reversible on neutralization or removal of the urea. 4. 4. It was concluded that the sedimentation and electrophoresis data are consistent either with a polymerizing multi-component system with rapid re-equilibration kinetics with respect to transport processes, or a polymerizing single-component system plus non-interacting species with intermediate reaction rate kinetics.
Acoustic and seismic modalities for unattended ground sensors

In this paper, we have presented the relative advantages and complementary aspects of acoustic and seismic ground sensors. A detailed description of both acoustic and seismic ground sensing methods has been provided. Acoustic and seismic phenomenology including source mechanisms, propagation paths, attenuation, and sensing have been discussed in detail. The effects of seismo-acoustic and acousto-seismic interactions as well as recommendations for minimizing seismic/acoustic cross talk have been highlighted. We have shown representative acoustic and seismic ground sensor data to illustrate the advantages and complementary aspects of the two modalities. The data illustrate that seismic transducers often respond to acoustic excitation through acousto-seismic coupling. Based on these results, we discussed the implications of this phenomenology on the detection, identification, and localization objectives of unattended ground sensors. We have concluded with a methodology for selecting the preferred modality (acoustic and/or seismic) for a particular application.
Technique of controlled reperfusion of the transplanted lung in humans.

Abstract Background . Reperfusion injury remains a significant and sometimes fatal problem in clinical lung transplantation. Controlled reperfusion of the transplanted lung using white cell–filtered, nutrient-enriched blood has been shown recently to significantly ameliorate reperfusion damage in a porcine model. We modified this experimental technique and applied it to human lung transplantation. Methods . Approximately 1,500 mL of arterial blood was slowly collected in a cardiotomy reservoir during the lung implant, and mixed to make a 4:1 solution of blood:modified Buckberg perfusate. This solution was passed through a leukocyte filter and into the transplant pulmonary artery for 10 minutes, at a controlled rate (200 mL/min) and pressure (less than 20 mm Hg), immediately before removal of the vascular clamp. Results . Five patients underwent lung transplantation (1 bilateral, 4 single lung) using this technique. All patients were ventilated on a 40% fraction of inspired oxygen within a few hours and extubated on or before the first postoperative day. Conclusions . Controlled reperfusion of the transplanted lung with white cell–filtered, nutrient-enriched blood has given excellent functional results in our small initial clinical series.
A Gradient of Sequence Divergence in the Human Adult α -globin Duplication Units

The nucleotide sequences of the two 59-homology blocks of human alpha-globin gene duplication units were determined. The sequence difference between the two blocks is essentially zero in the 59 portions, and increases gradually toward the 39 ends until it reaches a value of 18 percent. This gradient of sequence divergence is similar to the distribution of the frequencies of gene conversion along several loci in Ascobolus and yeast. Hot spots for initiation of gene correction processes appear to exist near the 59 ends of the human alpha-globin duplication units. The data provide the physical evidence for polar gene correction process in a mammalian genome.
In-Situ Rapid Isothermal Processing Of II-A Fluorides On Compound Semiconductors

We have developed a new technique for the realization of dielectric films (II-A fluorides and their mixtures) on corn-pound semiconductors. In this process, dielectric films are deposited in an e-beam system at room temperature and subsequently subjected to in-situ rapid isothermal annealing by using incoherent light sources incorporated in the e-beam system. In this paper, preliminary results of electrical and structural characteristics of CaF2 and CazSri-xF2 films on GaAs and InP are presented.
A fuzzy logical model of letter identification.

Stimuli were generated by factorially varying two sets of features that distinguish between two letter patterns. Subjects rated the degree to which each stimulus was an instance of one letter rather than the alternative. The obtained ratings were relatively continuous and systematic functions of the feature manipulations. The results were well accounted for by a model in which (a) each feature has an associated fuzzy predicate that is used to independently evaluate the degree to which it is true that the feature is present in the stimulus; (b) the featural truth values are integrated according to fuzzy logical expressions that correspond directly to propositional descriptions of each letter pattern; and (c) the resulting goodness of match to the stimulus for each letter is compared to that of the alternatives to determine the final identification. Language: en
Routine echocardiography screening for asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in childhood cancer survivors: a model-based estimation of the clinical and economic effects

Cardiac assessment every 1 to 5 years for childhood cancer survivors is recommended to detect asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction. The authors estimated the clinical benefits and cost-effecti...
A Mother‐Instruction Program: Analysis of Intervention Procedures

A variety of techniques have been used to train parents as therapists, and while many research efforts have produced carefully controlled studies documenting behavior change, few have analyzed in detail the procedures used to produce the change. As part of a larger research program aimed at teaching mothers to alter their interaction with their children, detailed analysis of the intervention procedures was carried out. These procedures consisted of instructions given to the mothers via a “bug-in-the-ear” device while they were actively engaged in interaction with their children. Instructions were categorized according to two principles: (a) the type of statements made to mothers; and (b) the kinds of behaviors we were encouraging mothers to exhibit. Results show that the amount of interpersonal behavior change was not related to intervention statements. Intervention statements were related to specific problem behaviors indicated by mothers at inital contact, and to the age of the child. Behavior change tended to be related to the number of problem behaviors indicated by mothers but not to any one specific behavior problem. Several issues raised by this study are discussed.
Interleukin 4 alters human bone marrow stroma and modulates its interaction with hematopoietic progenitors

To investigate the functional activity of interleukin 4 (IL-4) on human marrow stroma formation, normal bone marrow (BM) samples were cultured in "Dexter-type" long-term cultures in the presence and absence of IL-4. IL-4 (0.001 to 1.0 micrograms/ml) added at the initiation of culture and once weekly when the cultures were fed effaced the culture architecture. In four-week old confluent cultures smooth muscle-like and endothelial-like cells were rare, the fibronectin network and cobblestone areas were absent, and a preponderance of monocyte-macrophages characterized the adherent layer. Exposure to IL-4 reduced the numbers of CD34+ cells, colony-forming unit granulocyte-macrophage (GFU-GM) cells and burst-forming unit-erythroid (BFU-E) cells in the adherent layer, and increased their numbers in the nonadherent layer. In five of eight IL-4-containing cultures the concentrations of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) were increased and in two of eight IL-4-treated cultures the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were significantly elevated as compared to those in control cultures, whereas there were no consistent differences in the levels of either IL-6 or transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). IL-1 beta and granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF) were not detected in any culture. These data suggest that IL-4 suppresses stroma formation and alters its structure and cellular composition.
Detection of focal hepatic masses: STIR MR vs. CT during arterial portography.

OBJECTIVE Our goal was to compare short tau inversion recovery MRI (STIR) to CT during arterial portography (CTAP) in the detection of hepatic lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Over a 24 month period, 40 patients evaluated for possible hepatic resection underwent T1, T2, and STIR MRI and CTAP. These studies were randomly ordered and interpreted by two independent readers. The total number of lesions and number of lesions within each hepatic segment were analyzed using McNemar's test. RESULTS Readers 1 and 2 detected 95 and 91 lesions by CTAP and 78 and 83 by STIR, respectively, which was not significantly different (p = 0.1, reader 1; p = 0.4, reader 2). For both readers CTAP and STIR MRI detected more lesions than either T2 or T1 MRI (p < 0.01). In the medial segment, readers 1 and 2 detected 18 and 17 lesions by CTAP and 7 and 9 by STIR, respectively (p = 0.01, reader 1; p = 0.035, reader 2). CONCLUSION Short tau inversion recovery MRI and CTAP are similar in total lesion detection except in the medial segment where lesions were more frequently identified by CTAP than STIR MRI.
X-ray diffraction and absorption at extreme pressures

This article presents a review of techniques and instrumentation for using x rays and synchrotron radiation in high-pressure experiments. The review focuses on x-ray diffraction experiments using diamond anvil cells. After a brief introductory passage, details about diamond anvil cells, large volume apparatus, pressure measurement, and simultaneous high-temperature and high-pressure instrumentation are provided, with adequate references to these topics. A section on adapting x-ray methods for use with high-pressure apparatus lists the problems encountered. Examples of studies are presented using energy dispersive diffraction, angle dispersive diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, x-ray absorption spectroscopy, and single-crystal techniques. The current trend indicates that energy dispersive diffraction, so far the mainstay of high-pressure powder diffraction with synchrotron sources, has lost some ground to angle dispersive diffraction, due to advances in instrumentation in the latter method.
Computational modeling of left heart diastolic function: examination of ventricular dysfunction.

A computational model that accounts for blood-tissue interaction under physiological flow conditions was developed and applied to a thin-walled model of the left heart. This model consisted of the left ventricle, left atrium, and pulmonary vein flow. The input functions for the model included the pulmonary vein driving pressure and time-dependent relationship for changes in chamber tissue properties during the simulation. The Immersed Boundary Method was used for the interaction of the tissue and blood in response to fluid forces and changes in tissue pathophysiology, and the fluid mass and momentum conservation equations were solved using Patankar's Semi-Implicit Method for Pressure Linked Equations (SIMPLE). This model was used to examine the flow fields in the left heart under abnormal diastolic conditions of delayed ventricular relaxation, delayed ventricular relaxation with increased ventricular stiffness, and delayed ventricular relaxation with an increased atrial contraction. The results obtained from the left heart model were compared to clinically observed diastolic flow conditions, and to the results from simulations of normal diastolic function in this model [1]. Cases involving impairment of diastolic function were modeled with changes to the input functions for fiber relaxation/ contraction of the chambers. The three cases of diastolic dysfunction investigated agreed with the changes in diastolic flow fields seen clinically. The effect of delayed relaxation was to decrease the early filling magnitude, and this decrease was larger when the stiffness of the ventricle was increased. Also, increasing the contraction of the atrium during atrial systole resulted in a higher late filling velocity and atrial pressure. The results show that dysfunction can he modeled by changing the relationships for fiber resting-length and/or stiffness. This provides confidence in future modeling of disease, especially changes to chamber properties to examine the effect of local dysfunction on global flow fields.
Short Selling and the Weekend Effect in Nasdaq Stock Returns

We examine daily short selling of Nasdaq stocks to explore whether speculative short selling causes a significant portion of the weekend effect in returns. We identify a weekend effect in speculative short selling whereby it constitutes a larger percentage of trading volume on Mondays versus Fridays. We find an opposite effect in dealer short selling, consistent with market makers adding liquidity and stability. Our main finding is that speculative short selling does not explain an economically meaningful portion of the weekend effect in returns, even among the firms most that are most actively shorted. This finding contradicts some prior studies.
Multi-wavelength multi-angular lidar for aerosol characterization

A multi-wavelength, multi-static lidar has been designed and is being tested for the characterization of atmospheric aerosols. This design builds upon multi-static lidar, multiple scattering analyses, and supercontinuum DIAL experiments that have previously been developed at Penn State University. Scattering measurements at two polarizations are recorded over a range of angles using CCD imagers. Measurements are made using three discrete visible wavelength lasers as the lidar sources, or using a supercontinuum source with a wavelength range spanning the visible and near-IR wavelengths. The polarization ratios of the scattering phase functions are calculated for multiple wavelengths to analyze and determine the aerosol properties of artificially generated fog.
Pay for Performance and the Physicians Quality Reporting Initiative in Neurologic Practice

Pay-for-performance (P4P) initiatives are receiving significant attention in the media and throughout all parts of health care. To improve quality, hundreds of private payers have initiated P4P programs over the past decade. Recently, the federal government has followed suit with its Physicians Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). These programs have several potential shortcomings, and questions arise as to their value in truly improving health outcomes. Nevertheless, momentum continues to gather in both the public and private sectors for P4P to serve as a catalyst for health care reform.
A simulation study of lateral shipments in single supplier, multiple buyers supply chain networks

Abstract This study examines the effects, in terms of some selected criteria, of two lateral (intra-echelon) transshipment approaches in a two-echelon supply chain network, with a single supply source at the higher echelon and multiple retail locations at the lower, through a series of simulation experiments under different operating conditions. An important finding is that either of the proposed lateral shipment approaches are considerably superior to a policy of no such shipments, albeit at the expense of increased transportation activity. Further, an ad hoc emergency transshipment approach appears to be significantly more effective in terms of several important criteria, as compared to a more systematic transshipment technique based on stock level equalization.
Main and interaction effects of PEM fuel cell design parameters

In this work, a two-dimensional model is used to analyze the main and interaction effects of five design factors, at three levels in a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The model used in this study is a detailed two-dimensional steady-state model, solved using a finite element partial differential equation solver. The factors considered are channel width, shoulder width, gas distribution electrode (GDE) thickness, GDE conductivity and GDE porosity. A full factorial design is used to minimize statistical errors and study interactions accurately. The model used is a two-dimensional, across-the-channel model. The model is run at both the inlet and exit concentrations for fuel and oxidant, allowing the study of interaction effects over a range of operating conditions. The analysis is conducted for operating potentials of 0.7 and 0.6 V and a range of current densities. The strongest interaction effects are found to exist between channel size and GDE conductivity, while the weakest interaction effects are between GDE thickness and GDE porosity.
Self-reported energy intake of male & female bodybuilders in the scientific literature

Background Nutrient intake is critical to a bodybuilder in terms of improving the overall muscular appearance of their physique. Total energy intake and the proportion of the kilocalories derived from carbohydrates, protein, and fats are often precisely planned and implemented to maximize skeletal muscle hypertrophy and reduce body fat. The purpose of this study is to describe the self-reported energy intakes of male and female bodybuilders and to determine if differences exist between the genders in regards to total energy intake and macronutrient composition.
Sustaining the Peace: Determinants of Civil War Recurrence

Over half of all civil wars that began and ended between 1944 and 1997 were followed by at least one if not more episodes of civil war. We present a model to explain which characteristics of a civil war and the post-war environment make civil war more or less likely to recur. We test this model with data on civil wars that began and ended between 1944 and 1997. Findings suggest that civil wars are less likely to recur following rebel victories and peace agreements supported by peacekeeping forces. Post-war economic development also reduces the probability of civil war recurrence, and the longer the peace can be sustained, the less likely civil war is to recur. These effects hold regardless of whether the previous war was ethnically based or not, and whether it was secessionist or revolutionary.
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is hyperactivated in systemic sclerosis and induces Smad-dependent fibrotic responses in mesenchymal cells.

Objective Fibrosis in human diseases and animal models is associated with aberrant Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. The aim of this study was to characterize the regulation, activity, mechanism of action, and significance of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the context of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods The expression of Wnt signaling pathway components in SSc skin biopsy specimens was analyzed. The regulation of profibrotic responses by canonical Wnt/β-catenin was examined in explanted human mesenchymal cells. Fibrotic responses were studied using proliferation, migration, and gel contraction assays. The cell fate specification of subcutaneous preadipocytes by canonical Wnt signaling was evaluated. Results Analysis of published genome-wide expression data revealed elevated expression of the Wnt receptor FZD2 and the Wnt target LEF1 and decreased expression of Wnt antagonists DKK2 and WIF1 in skin biopsy specimens from subsets of patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc compared to the other distinct subsets. Immunohistochemical analysis showed increased nuclear β-catenin expression in these biopsy specimens. In vitro, Wnt-3a induced β-catenin activation, stimulated fibroblast proliferation and migration, collagen gel contraction, and myofibroblast differentiation, and enhanced profibrotic gene expression. Genetic and pharmacologic approaches were used to demonstrate that these profibrotic responses involved autocrine transforming growth factor β signaling via Smads. In contrast, in explanted subcutaneous preadipocytes, Wnt-3a repressed adipogenesis and promoted myofibroblast differentiation. Conclusion Canonical Wnt signaling was hyperactivated in SSc skin biopsy specimens. In explanted mesenchymal cells, Wnt-3a stimulated fibrogenic responses while suppressing adipogenesis. Taken together, these results indicate that Wnts have potent profibrotic effects, and that canonical Wnt signaling plays an important role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis and lipoatrophy in SSc.
Gender influences monoallelic expression of ATP10A in human brain

Human chromosome 15q11-13 and the syntenic region of mouse chromosome 7 contain multiple imprinted genes necessary for proper neurodevelopment. Due to imprinting, paternal 15q11-13 deficiencies lead to Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) while maternal 15q11-13 deficiencies cause Angelman syndrome (AS). The mechanisms involved in parental imprinting of this locus are conserved between human and mouse, yet inconsistencies exist in reports of imprinting of the maternally expressed gene Atp10a/ATP10A. Excess maternal 15q11-13 dosage often leads to autism-spectrum disorder therefore further investigation to characterize the true imprinting status of ATP10A in humans was warranted. In this study, we examined allelic expression of ATP10A transcript in 16 control brain samples, and found that 10/16 exhibited biallelic expression while only 6/16 showed monoallelic expression. Contrary to the expectation for a maternally expressed imprinted gene, quantitative RT-PCR revealed significantly reduced ATP10A transcript in Prader-Willi syndrome brains with two maternal chromosomes due to uniparental disomy (PWS UPD). Furthermore, a PWS UPD brain sample with monoallelic ATP10A expression demonstrated that monoallelic expression can be independent of imprinting. Investigation of factors that may influence allelic ATP10A expression status revealed that gender has a major affect, as females were significantly more likely to have monoallelic ATP10A expression than males. Regulatory sequences were also examined, and a promoter polymorphism that disrupts binding of the transcription factor Sp1 also potentially contributes to allelic expression differences in females. Our results show that monoallelic expression of human ATP10A is variable in the population and is influenced by both gender and common genetic variation.
Increased sodium transport by cortical collecting tubules from remnant kidneys

Increased sodium transport by cortical collecting tubules from remnant kidneys. To determine whether intrinsic changes in cortical collecting tubule (CCT) transport contribute to the maintenance of sodium and acid-base balance after loss of renal mass, we studied transport functions in isolated perfused CCT from rabbit remnant kidneys. The rabbits were sacrificed three weeks after surgical reduction of renal mass (by 3/4 to 7/8) at which time they were mildly azotemic but had no systemic electrolyte or acid-base disturbances. When perfused by standard methods in vitro, CCT from remnant kidneys exhibited sodium transport rates (lumen-to-bath 22 Na-flux) approximately twice as high as those in CCT from control animals (111 ± 19 vs. 54 ± 7 pmol/min mm, P 22 Na-flux, and in tubule size persisted in the pair-fed animals. A dissociation between active sodium transport and tubule hypertrophy was documented in the outer medullary collecting tubule; despite the lack of active sodium transport, hypertrophy was present. Our studies show that loss of renal mass results in a selective augmentation of certain transport processes in the CCT, implying selective or specific signals and mechanisms.
Atmospheric torques during the winter of 1989: Impact of ENSO and NAO positive phases

The axial component of atmospheric angular momentum (AAM) reached a decadal minimum during the winter of 1989, when the cool (La Nina) phase of the ENSO cycle and the positive phases of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the related Arctic Oscillation (AO) were active. Here, we examine the global atmospheric dynamics associated with this event from the torque point of view. It will be shown how mountain torques on North America, South America and Europe related to these oscillations led to the AAM minimum, partly compensated by a positive ENSO-related mountain torque over Asia. The friction torque had more nearly equal positive and negative anomalies associated with ENSO and NAO forcing, respectively, and made a smaller, offsetting contribution to the global AAM anomaly during this episode.
‘Learning’ with no feedback in a competitive guessing game

Abstract An assumption underlying current models of learning in games is that learning takes place only through repeated experience of outcomes. This paper experimentally tests this assumption using Nagel's (1995, Amer. Econ. Rev. 85, 1313–1326) competitive guessing game. The experiment consists of several periods of repeated play under alternative feedback conditions, including no-feedback conditions in which players receive no information between periods. If learning takes place only through reinforcement resulting from experienced outcomes, choices in the no-feedback conditions should not converge towards the Nash equilibrium. While less than under full information, there is convergence towards the equilibrium prediction in the no-feedback conditions. Varying priming given to subjects between periods does not affect the results.
Variation in offspring sex ratio in women of differing social status

Abstract Since Trivers and Willard first postulated 15 years ago that offspring sex ratio might be adaptively manipulated by parents of mammalian species as well as hymenoptera, evidence has been accumulating in support of this hypothesis. Research suggests that female mammals are able to manipulate the secondary (birth) sex ratio of their offspring based upon their own social status and/or access to resources. This ability is thought to procure a reproductive advantage by maximizing number of grandchildren. This article reports, in further confirmation of the Trivers and Willard hypothesis, the apparent sex ratio manipulation of offspring by human females of differing social status, in a polygynous, naturally fertile population, the nineteenth-century Mormons.
The Heart of Mathematics.

(1980). The Heart of Mathematics. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 87, No. 7, pp. 519-524.
Palmitoylation of Caveolin-1 at a Single Site (Cys-156) Controls Its Coupling to the c-Src Tyrosine Kinase TARGETING OF DUALLY ACYLATED MOLECULES (GPI-LINKED, TRANSMEMBRANE, OR CYTOPLASMIC) TO CAVEOLAE EFFECTIVELY UNCOUPLES c-Src AND CAVEOLIN-1 (TYR-14)

Caveolin-1 was initially identified as a phosphoprotein in Rous sarcoma virus-transformed cells. Previous studies have shown that caveolin-1 is phosphorylated on tyrosine 14 by c-Src and that lipid modification of c-Src is required for this phosphorylation event to occur in vivo. Phosphocaveolin-1 (Tyr(P)-14) localizes within caveolae near focal adhesions and, through its interaction with Grb7, augments anchorage-independent growth and epidermal growth factor-stimulated cell migration. However, the cellular factors that govern the coupling of caveolin-1 to the c-Src tyrosine kinase remain largely unknown. Here, we show that palmitoylation of caveolin-1 at a single site (Cys-156) is required for coupling caveolin-1 to the c-Src tyrosine kinase. Furthermore, upon evaluating a battery of nonreceptor and receptor tyrosine kinases, we demonstrate that the tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin-1 by c-Src is a highly selective event. We show that Src-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin-1 can be inhibited or uncoupled by targeting dually acylated proteins (namely carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CD36, and the NH(2)-terminal domain of Galpha(i1)) to the exoplasmic, transmembrane, and cytoplasmic regions of the caveolae membrane, respectively. Conversely, when these proteins are not properly targeted or lipid-modified, the ability of c-Src to phosphorylate caveolin-1 remains unaffected. In addition, when purified caveolae preparations are preincubated with a myristoylated peptide derived from the extreme N terminus of c-Src, the tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin-1 is abrogated; the same peptide lacking myristoylation has no inhibitory activity. However, an analogous myristoylated peptide derived from c-Yes also has no inhibitory activity. Thus, the inhibitory effects of the myristoylated c-Src peptide are both myristoylation-dependent and sequence-specific. Finally, we investigated whether phosphocaveolin-1 (Tyr(P)-14) interacts with the Src homology 2 and/or phosphotyrosine binding domains of Grb7, the only characterized downstream mediator of its function. Taken together, our data identify a series of novel lipid-lipid-based interactions as important regulatory factors for coupling caveolin-1 to the c-Src tyrosine kinase in vivo.
Levels of nine potentially toxic elements in Idaho fish manures.

Soil amendments and fertilizers may include potentially toxic elements that may be accumulated by plants. The elemental composition of municipal sludges has been studied in great detail (Furr et al. 1976; Mumma et al. 1984). Fish hatcheries in south-central Idaho have been ordered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to discontinue sweeping accumulated wastes downstream into the Snake River. Alternatives include landfilling and domestic use of the manures as lawn fertilizer. It has been proposed (Smith, 1982, 1985) that fish manures are suitable fertilizers for crops such as corn and sugar beets. Sewage sludges and manures have increasingly been disposed of as soil conditioners and low grade fertilizers. In 1981 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed upper limits of certain heavy metals for sewage sludges suitable for land application. The following upper limits (ppm) were proposed: cadmium (25), chromium (1000), copper (1000), lead (1000), mercury (10), nickel (200), and zinc (2500). We determined the concentrations of these elements, plus arsenic and cobalt, in fish manures being evaluated as fertilizers for Idaho croplands. We also determined nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in fresh fish manures.
Elijah High Altitude Balloon Launch Team 2012-2013

The 2012-2013 launch team of four undergraduate students has brought itself up to speed on the equipment and software necessary for high altitude balloon flights, prepared and tested it all, and completed two successful flights. GPS flight data of latitude, longitude, time, and altitude was collected and analyzed. A new mobile tracking tool was used more than ever before with the growing popularity of smart phones; and new methods were used for data analysis and presentation thanks to technologies now available on the internet.
Development of sertoli cell junctions in vitro—A freeze-fracture study

Seminiferous tubules of 1-day-old rats were maintained in organ culture for up to 40 days. Five classes of intercellular junctions between Sertoli cells were observed by the freeze-fracture method as the tissue aged: (a) typical gap junctions; (b) focal tight junctions; (c) macular tight junctions; (d) meandering tight junctions; and (e) extensive tight junctions. The relative proportions of these types of Sertoli cell junctions were quantitated as the organ cultures progressed. The junctional structures observed and classified in organ culture were identical to those seen in vivo, but the timing of their appearance and/or disappearance, as well as their relative proportions, was different from that observed in the developing animal. Extensive tight junctions, with numerous parallel strands, were observed in the 40-day cultures; however, their oblique orientation with respect to the myoid layer was in contrast to the parallel orientation observed in vivo.
Effects of IBMX on the ERG of the isolated perfused cat eye.

Abstract Full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded from isolated cat eyes perfused through the ophthalmociliary artery with isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX), an inhibitor of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cyclic GMP) phosphodiesterase. Low doses of IBMX (0.1–0.3 mM) produced decreased rod ERG amplitudes at low stimulus luminances and increased rod ERG amplitudes at high stimulus luminances. A high dose of IBMX (1.0 mM) initially produced the same effect as the low doses and then led to decreased rod ERG amplitudes at all stimulus luminances. Perfusion with IBMX also resulted in elevations in the semi-saturation luminance (σ), delayed rod a-wave latencies, delayed rod a-wave and b-wave implicit times, and reduced rod a-wave slopes. Eyes perfused with IBMX (1.0 mM) were also found to have elevated levels of retinal cyclic GMP. These effects of IBMX on the rod ERG are considered in the context of previously described ERGs in selected cases of human retinal degeneration.