cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spillovers of the Credit Default Swap Market

Credit Default Swap (CDS) prices have soared on the edge of a potential sovereign default of some European countries. Interestingly, not only countries on the verge of receiving bailouts have seen their CDS prices rise, but also those from which most of the bailout financing would come, such as Germany. If in fact default probabilities of countries like Germany have risen, should we still view them as safe-havens? In particular, to what extent should we see bond yields rise (as bond prices decline) vis-a-vis CDS spreads? This paper tackles this question by estimating the dynamic responses of bond yields to changes in the CDS spreads. The second, more fundamental question is to assess if the apparent contagion from troubled countries to otherwise-healthy economies is in fact so. I address this question using the Diebold - Yilmaz spillover index methodology for CDS data. I conclude that sovereign debt from Germany, Chile and Japan are unaffected by contagion from other economies and have served as safe-haven assets during the current financial distress episode.
Variations on a Theme: Social Theory*

(1983). Variations on a Theme: Social Theory. The Sociological Quarterly: Vol. 24, No. 4, pp. 471-487.
Does the presence of preoperative mild or moderate coronary artery disease affect the outcomes of lung transplantation

Background Significant coronary artery disease (CAD) is an exclusion criterion for lung transplantation at most centers. However, the impact of preoperative noncritical CAD (single or multivessel mild Methods A retrospective review of 268 adult patients who underwent lung transplantation between June 1998 and June 2003 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, a tertiary care center affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine, was performed. Results Two hundred ten patients had coronary angiography performed as part of their pretransplantation evaluation. Among these patients, 177 patients had no CAD, and 33 patients (mild, 16; moderate, 17) had noncritical CAD. Patients with noncritical CAD were older (59 versus 55 years, p p = 0.014) and systemic hypertension (58% versus 36%, p = 0.004) than patients without CAD. There was no significant difference in the underlying lung disease, other comorbidities, type of lung transplantation performed, early postoperative complications, and hospital or late mortality between recipients with or without CAD. Among the patients with noncritical CAD, there was no hospital mortality and no late cardiac mortality. Three recipients with preoperative moderate CAD developed late ischemic cardiac events, and revascularization was performed in 2 of these recipients. Long-term survival was similar among recipients with or without preoperative CAD. Conclusions Preoperative noncritical (mild or moderate) CAD was not associated with increased perioperative morbidity or mortality, and it did not adversely affect short-term or long-term survival. Late ischemic events developed in 18% of the recipients with moderate CAD disease with no effect on mortality.
Carbon Nanotubes: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications

The goal of this article is to provide an updated and in-depth review of some of the most exciting and important developments in the processing and properties of carbon nanotubes. Nanotubes can be formed in various structures using several different processing methods. The synthesis methods used to produce specific kinds of nanotubes are discussed and a comparison is made between the methods used by researchers and industrial producers. This is followed by an overview and discussion of what makes carbon nanotubes interesting to so many: their mechanical, chemical, electrical, thermal, and optical properties. The article ends with a discussion of the future outlook for the study of carbon nanotubes.
Genomic and proteomic identification of a DNA-binding protein used in the "fingerprinting" of campylobacter species and strains by MALDI-TOF-MS protein biomarker analysis.

We have identified a prominent ∼10-kDa protein biomarker observed in the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectra (MALDI-TOF-MS) of cell lysates of five thermophilic species of Campylobacter: jejuni, coli, lari, upsaliensis, and helveticus. The biomarker was unambiguously identified by genomic and proteomic sequencing as a DNA-binding protein HU. We report the amino acid sequence of HU as determined by sequencing the hup gene of four species (12 strains): C. jejuni (2), C. coli (4), C. upsaliensis (4) and C. lari (2). Confirmation of the amino acid sequence was obtained by nanoflow high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry of the tryptic peptides of the extracted/digested HU protein. Protein identification was also confirmed by comparison of the molecular weight (MW) predicted from the hup gene and the MW of HU as measured by high-resolution mass spectrometry. We found the HU protein to be particularly useful as a biomarker in that it strongly ionizes...
Angiotensin (1-7) contributes to nitric oxide tonic inhibition of vasopressin release during hemorrhagic shock in acute ethanol intoxicated rodents.

Aims Acute ethanol intoxication (AEI) attenuates the arginine vasopressin (AVP) response to hemorrhage leading to impaired hemodynamic counter-regulation and accentuated hemodynamic stability. Previously we identified that the ethanol-induced impairment of circulating AVP concentrations in response to hemorrhage was the result of augmented central nitric oxide (NO) inhibition. The aim of the current study was to examine the mechanisms underlying ethanol-induced up-regulation of paraventricular nucleus (PVN) NO concentration. Angiotensin (ANG) (1-7) is an important mediator of NO production through activation of the Mas receptor. We hypothesized that Mas receptor inhibition would decrease central NO concentration and thus restore the rise in circulating AVP levels during hemorrhagic shock in AEI rats.
Second Virial Coefficients for n-Alkanes Adsorbed at the Vapor/Water Interface

The interaction of paraffin chains at aqueous surfaces is a major factor in defining the stability of interfacial structures such as monolayers and membranes formed by lipids and surfactants. Basic...
Modeling ebola outbreak: a case study on 2014 outbreak in sierra leone

In recent time Sierra Leone has gone through the deadliest Ebola outbreak. In this paper, we modified the well-known Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed (SEIR) model to determine the effect of vaccination and hospitalization of individuals to control the epidemic. Using the publicly available data for Sierra Leone provided by the WHO, our results show that vaccination and hospitalizing people can be significantly helpful to control the epidemic. We also discussed optimal control problem to determine the effect of putting optimal control on hospitalization.
Imperial Dilemmas, the Politics of Kinship, and Inca Reconstructions of History

I am extremely fortunate to have discussed issues of hegemony, consciousness, and class transformations with Nan E. Woodruff, who brought Southern and European perspectives to my own Peru-centered understandings. Julie Saville, a scholar of emancipation and reconstruction in the United States, made me aware of the fine points of cultural resistance and taught me not to underestimate its strengths. Jane Collier also taught me much about chiefdoms and their internal tensions. And thanks to the anonymous reviewer for interesting and helpful suggestions. This article was presented in various incarnations at several professional gatherings. I am grateful to have benefited from the insights and criticisms of co-panel members and audience. “Contradictions in Inca Ideologies" was presented at the Sixteenth Annual Meeting of the Canadian Ethnology Society (Montreal, 1984); ‘Politics of Reproduction and Inca Expansion’ was pre- sented at the Annual Meeting of the American Ethnological Society (Wrightsville Beach, 1986); and ‘Politics of Reproduction and the Inca Construction of History’ was presented at the Symposium on Andean and Lowland South American Cosmologies, organized by the University of Chicago (Chicago, 1986). Generous grants from the Doherty Foundation, Wenner Gren Foundation, and Organization of American States allowed me to conduct research on the Incas in Peru from June 1975 to December 1978. I will always be grateful to them for affording me that special opportunity.
The trade regime and the climate regime: institutional evolution and adaptation

Abstract This article addresses concerns that the multilateral trade regime centered in the WTO and the emerging climate regime may conflict in ways that could be damaging to either or both. The article discusses the institutional and diplomatic context of these concerns, and it identifies the kinds of issues that are in question. The analysis suggests that there are opportunities for win—win outcomes in the interactions of the two regimes, for instance in the possibility of reducing fossil fuel subsidies. However, there are also problematic areas where they intersect. A core issue—and as yet an unresolved one—is whether and how emission credit trading and other activities envisioned by the Kyoto Protocolwould be subject toWTOrules. The resolution of this issue will affect many other issues as well. Additional specific issues about the interactions of particular provisions inWTOagreements and theKyoto Protocol are analyzed in a subsequent companion article in Climate Policy.
Tectonic history of aseismic ridges in the eastern Indian Ocean

We have devised a model for the origin of the Ninetyeast Ridge, the Broken Ridge–Naturaliste Plateau, and the Kerguelen Plateau in the eastern Indian Ocean which demonstrates that they were created by fixed hot spots now beneath the Amsterdam–St. Paul and Kerguelen Islands. The model employs reconstructions constrained by relative motions between plates; the model was deduced from sea-floor data and by paleolatitudes from Australian paleomagnetic pole data. Paleolongitudes were constrained by holding the Ninetyeast Ridge over the Amsterdam–St. Paul spot. Predicted age gradients and trajectories result, and these agree very well with geologic observations on the aseismic ridges. The Ninetyeast Ridge was laid down mainly from the Amsterdam–St. Paul hot spot, but also from the spot now under Kerguelen. The ridge is predicted to be from about 90 to 20 m.y. old. Broken Ridge–Naturaliste Plateau and the Kerguelen Plateau were both formed from the Kerguelen Islands hot spot and were joined prior to the Australia-Antarctic rift about 55 m.y. B.P. Broken Ridge–Naturaliste Plateau is predicted to be from more than 100 to about 80 m.y. old. Kerguelen Plateau should be from more than 100 to 0 m.y. old, but several volcanic hiatuses are predicted.
Causes and consequences of heterogeneity in infant feeding practices among indigenous Andean women.

Population variation in maternal work schedules milk output presence of surrogate caretakers supplemental feeding patterns and maternal-infant co-sleeping very likely affects suckling duration and frequency. There can be large differences even in relatively homogenous rural indigenous populations that affect fertility maternal-infant health and intervention programs. Findings were presented on suckling patterns and on heterogeneity in fecundity and socioeconomic status (SES) and feeding practices among three rural Quechua communities in Nunoa Peru. Mothers and infants were from low SES and mid SES households. The suckling time to the nearest second among 10 infants showed longer and more frequent nursing sessions in the morning and reduced feeding during the night. Duration of suckling was associated with infants age and declined with increasing age of the infant. Interval duration was not associated with infants age. Mothers age was found to be associated with afternoon suckling duration. Younger mothers had shorter afternoon sessions perhaps because there were older adolescent women who cared for older mothers children in the afternoon or older mothers produced less milk and thus required longer suckling times. Afternoon interval duration did not vary with infants or mothers age. Maternal recall of suckling duration and frequency was considered inaccurate as a result of recall and observational comparisons of duration and frequency for a sample of 9 women. Postpartum amenorrhea averaged 18.8 months for median duration. Mid SES women had a postpartum amenorrhea period of 8.8 months compared to 21.6 months for low SES women. Mid SES women had shorter breast feeding durations during the day of 16.6 months compared to 23.6 months for low SES women and during the night 2.4 years versus 3.6 years. About 40% of both low and mid SES women used bottle feeding and began bottle feeding at the same age of 5 months. Solid food was introduced at 13 months for both groups of women.
Discomfort from an alkaline formulation delivered subcutaneously in humans: albumin at pH 7 versus pH 10.

Background and Objective: There is a paucity of data regarding tolerability of alkaline drugs administered subcutaneously. The aim of this study was to assess the tolerability of alkaline preparations of human albumin delivered subcutaneously to healthy humans.
Calculation of the Area of Movements of the Center of Gravity in Sitting in Hemiplegic Patients by Mathematics

The purpose of this study was to examine the degree of disorder of dynamic balance in sitting of stroke patients with hemiplegia by calculation of the area of movements of the center of gravity. Subjects were ten hemiplegic patients. Controls were ten young adults and ten eldery adults. The center of gravity point (mean of Y-axis and mean of X-axis) was measured during movements of the center of gravity toward eight points from the center. An octagon was described on section paper by the eight points. This octagon was divided into six triangles. The area of the octagon was calculated by the sum of the area of six triangles. Moreover, the Heron formula was used for calculation of the area of the triangles. The value of hemiplegic patients was significantly decreased compared to the value of controls. Also, there was a significant difference between eyes open and eyes closed in hemiplegic patients only. This study showed the area of movements of the center of gravity area and its characteristic in sitting of hemiplegia patients.
Ethanol, the ultimate feedstock

Ethanol appears to be a key factor in the “biomass alternative” to fossil feedstocks for producing fuels and chemicals. If produced at a low enough price relative to crude oil, it and its derivates could account for 159 billion pounds, or 50%, of the US production of synthetic organic chemicals, presently valued at $113 billion. This use would consume 4.2 billion bushels, or about 54%, of the corn crop.
A nuclear magnetic resonance study of sodium ion interaction with erythrocyte membranes.

Abstract Sodium-23 nuclear magnetic resonance line widths have been used to study sodium ion interaction with erythrocyte membranes and erythrocyte membrane proteins. Detergent solubilization has been effective in freeing sodium and potassium binding sites which are not available for rapid chemical exchange with the whole membrane. Evidence for sodium ion binding has been obtained by showing that the resonance line width increases in the presence of solubilized membrane. Competition by potassium for binding sites is demonstrated by a decrease of the sodium line width in the presence of potassium ion.
The Unsaturated Fatty Acids of Milk Fat II. Conjugated and Nonconjugated Constituents

Summary Ultraviolet absorption curves for milk fats before and after alkali isomerization showed the presence of conjugated and nonconjugated polyethenoid constituents. The amounts of these polyunsaturated fatty acids in representative California milk fats were estimated by spectrophotometry and compared with other published data. Methyl esters of the polyethenoid fatty acids were concentrated by combinations of vacuum distillation, preferential urea complex formation, and low temperature crystallization procedures. The latter technique was superior to the urea complex method for the concentration of polyethenoid esters by removal of saturated and monoethenoid components. Although individual conjugated and nonconjugated polyunsaturated constituents were not isolated in a pure state from a mixture of C 18–20 methyl esters by fractional distillation in vacuum, appreciable fractionation was achieved. The results showed that the milk fat contained small amounts of conjugated and nonconjugated dienoic, trienoic, and tetraenoic fatty acids with carbon chain lengths of 18 or longer. Spectrophotometric evidence also indicated the presence of a nonconjugated pentaenoic constituent.
THE PREVALENCE AND DETECTION OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AMONG INPATIENTS AGES 18 TO 49 : AN OPPORTUNITY FOR PREVENTION

Abstract Background.Previous studies have found that substance use disorders are prevalent among inpatients of general medical hospitals. These studies were limited in the validity of their measures, their failure to distinguish between current and lifetime disorders, or their lack of attention to drugs other than alcohol. Methods.The current study used validated diagnostic instruments to measure current and lifetime alcohol and other drug abuse and dependence among patients ages 18 through 49. Additionally, this study assessed the sensitivity and specificity of four substance abuse screening questions. Patients were recruited from the general medical, general surgery, and orthopedics services of a university hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. The sample included 363 patients, or 86.4% of those recruited. Results.The current and lifetime prevalence rates of substance use disorders were 21.8 and 49.6%, respectively. The prevalence rates of current problems were 16.3%, alcohol only; 2.5%, other drugs only; and 3.0%, alcohol and other drugs. Males had nearly a 30% current prevalence of current substance use disorders. The CAGE Questions Adapted to Include Drugs exhibited 70.9% sensitivity and 75.7% specificity. Conclusions.At one hospital, and perhaps at others, an alcohol and drug screening, assessment, and intervention program may have the potential to prevent future health and social problems.
Routine femtogram-level chemical analyses using vibrational spectroscopy and self-cleaning scanning probe microscopy tips.

Simultaneous structural and chemical characterization of materials at the nanoscale is both an immediate need and an ongoing challenge. This article reports a route to address this need, which can be rapidly adopted by practitioners, by combining the benefits of widely available scanning probe microscopy and vibrational microspectrometry. In an atomic force microscope (AFM), the probe tip can provide a nanoscale topographic image. Here, we use a temperature-controlled probe tip to selectively acquire an analyte from a specified location and determine its mass in a thermogravimetric manner. The tip is then analyzed via complementary Raman and Fourier transform infrared microspectrometers, providing a molecular characterization of samples down to the femtogram level in minutes. The probe can be self-cleaned and employed for repeated use by rapidly heating it to vaporize the analyte. By combining the established analytical modalities of AFM and vibrational spectrometry, a complete physical and molecular char...
Fourier Domain Mode Locked Lasers for OCT Imaging at up to 290 kHz Sweep Rates

A high speed, tunable laser using Fourier Domain Mode Locking is demonstrated for OCT imaging. Record sweep speeds up to 290 kHz, 3 cm coherence length and 145 nm range at 1300 nm are achieved.
The Legislative Evolution of Performance Funding in the North Carolina Community College System.

This article reports on an analysis and interpretation of the legislative evolution of the North Carolina community college performance funding program. Analysis of appropriation bills, government documents, and consultants' reports demonstrates that the program evolved from community college accountability initiatives, a funding study, and a state government performance audit.
The effect of ischemia on renal blood flow in the dog

The effect of ischemia on renal blood flow in the dog. Renal blood flow (RBF) and the distribution of cortical blood flow (microspheres) were measured in the dog after 90min of total unilateral renal ischemia. RBF was 21% greater than control 2min after release of the renal artery occlusion, and returned toward control 60min later. At 2min after release there was a small but significant increment in deep cortical blood flow which reverted to control by 60min. When renal artery occlusion was maintained for 180 min, return of blood flow was blunted at 2min after release of the occlusion, but was not significantly different from control within 10min after release. Clearance rates of inulin and para-aminohippurate (C IN and C PAH ) were 81 and 82% below control after release of occlusion. These data demonstrate that in the dog there is prompt and complete return of blood flow to or above control levels after complete renal artery occlusion. There was no evidence for the "no-reflow" phenomenon Effets de l'ischemie sur le debit sanguin renal chez le chien. Le debit sanguin renal (RBF) et la distribution du debit sanguin cortical (microspheres) ont ete mesures chez le chien apres 90 minutes d'ischemie renale totale unilaterale. Le RBF est superieur de 21% a la valeur controle deux minutes apres l'arret de l'occlusion arterielle renale et rejoint la valeur controle 60 minutes plus tard. A la deuxieme minute apres l'arret de l'occlusion, on observe une augmentation moderee mais significative du debit cortical profond, lequel revient aux valeurs controles apres 60 minutes. Quand l'occlusion est maintenue pendant 180 minutes, la reapparition du debit n'est pas decelable deux minutes apres l'arret de l'occlusion, mais a dix minutes le debit n'est pas significativement different des valeurs controles. C IN et C PAH sont de 81 et 82% inferieurs aux valeurs controles apres l'arret de l'occlusion. Ces resultats demontrent qu'il y a chez le chien une restauration rapide et complete du debit sanguin aux valeurs controles, ou au-dessus de ces valeurs, apres une occlusion arterielle renale complete. Il n'y a pas de preuve de phenomene d'absence de nouveau debit.
Nitrogen: Its Fixation, Its Uses in Peace and War

Introduction. Some influences of the war on the supply of fertilizer materials, 391. — I. Classification and uses of nitrogen compounds, 394. — II. Sources of fixed nitrogen: Chilean nitrate, 398; coal, 401; air, 404. — III. The fixation of atmospheric nitrogen by chemical processes: arc process, 405; cyanamid process, 408; Haber process, 410; cyanide process, 414. — Summary of the situation at the outbreak of the war, 416. — IV. Developments in nitrogen fixation since the outbreak of the European war: Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, 417; Germany and Austria, 418; Japan, Italy, France, and Great Britain, 420; United States, 422. — V. The future policy of the United States, 428.
Comparative molecular field analysis and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis of boron-containing human thymidine kinase 1 substrates.

Three-dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D-QSAR) using CoMFA and CoMSIA techniques was applied to evaluate 56 pyrimidine nucleosides as substrates of human thymidine kinase 1 (hTK1), 27 of them containing a carborane substituent either at the 3-, 5-, or 3′-position of the 2′-deoxyuridine scaffold. This is the first report describing 3D-QSAR studies of compounds containing boron atoms. Both CoMFA and CoMSIA models were derived from a training set of 47 molecules and the predictive capacity of the CoMSIA model was successfully validated by accurately calculating known phosphorylation rates of both boronated and non-boron hTK1 substrates that were not included in the training set. The optimal CoMSIA model provided the following values: q2 0.622, r2 0.983, s 0.165, and F 187.5. Contour maps obtained from the CoMSIA model were in agreement with the experimentally determined biological data.
Deployment and Healing of an ePTFE Encapsulated Stent Endograft in the Canine Aorta

= 3), 1 month (n= 3), 3 months (n= 3), 6 months (n= 9), and 1 year (n= 3). Dimensions of the infrarenal aorta were determined with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and angiography prior to deployment of devices. Real-time fluoroscopy and IVUS were used to monitor device deployment with both imaging modalities repeated following implantation. Gross inspection and microscopic evaluation was performed on the explanted specimens following in vivo evaluation by CT scan, IVUS, and angiography prior to retrieval of the specimens. The prostheses were easily deployed from the femoral access site. Oversizing of the deployment balloon compared to the aortic diameter was necessary to accommodate the 10% device recoil observed following balloon deflation, however, all devices were seated against the aortic wall as evidenced by IVUS. At explant, all devices ware widely patent with limited luminal thrombosis observed in four specimens (19%). Devices were well-incorporated by cellular ingrowth into the ePTFE with the formation of neointima. No device migration or postdeployment recoil was observed. ePTFE graft material between stents protruded slightly into the vessel lumen accounting for a 10% luminal reduction. Fully supported ELG's consisting of balloon expandable stents encapsulated in ePTFE are easily deployed using a low-profile delivery system. Specimens demonstrated uniform long-term patency and healing up to 1 year in a canine aortic model. Those preliminary findings support further study of this fully supported prosthesis in the treatment of arterial disease.
Osteoporosis for the allergist

Objective This review is intended to be an authoritative summary of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, a problem that may be encountered in allergy practice. It also provides an outline for identification of subjects at high risk and directions for their appropriate evaluation, management, and prevention of the disease. Data Sources References were obtained through a MEDLINE literature search as well as from previous reviews. Relevant articles were critically reviewed and their conclusions were included. Results Osteoporosis is a relatively common disease that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The management and prevention of osteoporosis have been improved by an increased awareness of the magnitude of the problem, a better understanding of the pathogenesis, development of a better technique for assessment of bone mineral density, and the availability of specific medications. With the increase in human life-span and the increasing use of glucocorticosteroids for a wide variety of diseases, the incidence of osteoporosis has been on the rise. Conclusion Glucocorticosteroids are the most common medications that cause or contribute to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and have been widely used in allergy practice. It is important for physicians to appreciate the current basic understanding of osteoporosis and to be able to identify patients at high risk for this serious disorder, and to initiate appropriate intervention at a sufficiently early time to be effective. Medications for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis include: calcium, vitamin D, estrogen, bisphosphonates, calcitonin, and others are reviewed in this article.
Persistent solar magnetic pattern extending over equatorial latitudes.

Interpolated pattern of interplanetary magnetic field compared with photospheric magnetic field during sunspot cycle minimum revealing persistent pattern in solar field
A hybrid data dissemination scheme for VANETs

Data dissemination in Vehicular Ad hoc NETworks (VANETs) is a key research area with applications that range from traffic flow information to weather reports and related information. Delivering this data with maximum efficiency to a wide area is the focus of research in data dissemination protocols. Data propagation methods preferred for these specialized ad hoc networks fall under two mutually exclusive categories namely store-and-forward and multi-hop broadcasts. Neither of these two categories is noticeably superior and each has its strengths and weaknesses which we outline in this paper. We propose a novel hybrid data dissemination scheme that capitalizes on the strengths of both these categories and mitigates the weaknesses by combining store-and-forward and multi-hop broadcasts. We simulate the proposed hybrid scheme on the JiST/SWANS simulator and evaluate its behavior and performance against pure store-and-forward and pure multi-hop broadcasts by varying the aggregation ratio, number of nodes, and broadcast zone radius.
Detection of bacterial endosymbionts in clinical acanthamoeba isolates.

Purpose To determine the presence of 4 clinically relevant bacterial endosymbionts in Acanthamoeba isolates obtained from patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and the possible contribution of endosymbionts to the pathogenesis of AK. Design Experimental study. Participants Acanthamoeba isolates (N = 37) recovered from the cornea and contact lens paraphernalia of 23 patients with culture-proven AK and 1 environmental isolate. Methods Acanthamoeba isolates were evaluated for the presence of microbial endosymbionts belonging to the bacterial genera Legionella , Pseudomonas , Mycobacterium , and Chlamydia using molecular techniques (polymerase chain reaction and sequence analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization) and transmission electron microscopy. Corneal toxicity and virulence of Acanthamoeba isolates with and without endosymbionts were compared using a cytopathic effect (CPE) assay on human corneal epithelial cells in vitro. Initial visual acuity, location and characteristics of the infiltrate, time to detection of the infection, and symptom duration at presentation were evaluated in all patients. Main Outcome Measures Prevalence and potential pathobiology of bacterial endosymbionts detected in Acanthamoeba isolates recovered from AK. Results Twenty-two (59.4%) of the 38 cultures examined contained at least 1 bacterial endosymbiont. One isolate contained 2 endosymbionts, Legionella and Chlamydia , confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Corneal toxicity (CPE) was significantly higher for Acanthamoeba -hosting endosymbionts compared with isolates without endosymbionts ( P Pseudomonas and Mycobacterium enhanced Acanthamoeba CPE significantly more than Legionella ( P P >0.05), central location ( P P P >0.05), and longer symptom duration at presentation ( P >0.05). Conclusions Most Acanthamoeba isolates responsible for AK harbor 1 or more bacterial endosymbionts. The presence of endosymbionts enhances the corneal pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba isolates and may impact detection time and clinical features of AK. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Differential effects of elevated nutrient and sediment inputs on survival, growth and biomass of a common larval fish species (Dorosoma cepedianum)

Summary 1. Elevated allochthonous inputs of nutrients and sediments to aquatic ecosystems are associated with eutrophication and sedimentation. Reservoirs receive substantial subsidies of nutrients and sediments from catchments due to their large catchment : lake area ratios. We examined the effect of elevated subsidies of sediments and/or dissolved nutrients on the success (survival, growth, biomass and condition factor) of larval gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum), a widespread and dominant omnivorous fish in reservoir ecosystems. 2. We simulated allochthonous agricultural subsides by manipulating dissolved nutrients and sediment inputs in a 2 × 2 factorial design in experimental mesocosms. We predicted that larval fish success would be greater under elevated nutrients. However, we propose two alternative hypotheses with respect to the overall effect of allochthonous sediment inputs. If sediment inputs negatively affect larval gizzard feeding success, larval success would be highest when only nutrients are added and lowest when only sediments are added (+N > +N+S ≥ C > +S). If high turbidity enhances larval foraging activity (due to greater contrast between prey and background), we predict that larval success would be highest when both subsidy types (nutrients and sediment) are elevated, intermediate when either nutrients or sediments are added and the lowest when no subsidies are added (+N+S > +N ≥ +S > C). 3. Our results indicate that elevated nutrient and sediment conditions enhanced larval gizzard shad biomass, but the overall nutrient addition effect was greater than the sediment addition effect (+N ∼ +N+S > +S > C). We observed differential effects of nutrient and sediment inputs on larval survival, growth and condition factors. 4. The enhancement of fish biomass in elevated nutrients (+N, +N+S) relative to control conditions was associated with improved gizzard shad survival and not greater growth. The enhancement of fish biomass in the elevated sediment treatment (+S) relative to the control conditions was caused by an increase in survival that more than compensated for a negative effect of sediment addition on growth. 5. Our findings support the recommendation that reservoir management practices must consider the links between land use practices and food web dynamics. Our results suggest that reduction of subsidies of nutrients and sediments to productive reservoirs would decrease survival of larval gizzard shad due to lower food availability.
Brandom on Practical Reason

Robert Brandom claims that language expressing pro-attitudes makes explicit proprieties of practical inference. This thesis is untenable, especially given certain premises which Brandom himself endorses. Pro-attitude vocabulary has the wrong grammatical structure; other parts of vocabulary do the job he ascribes to pro-attitude vocabulary; the thesis introduces implausible differences between the inferential consequences of desires and intentions, and distorts the interpretation of conditional statements. Rather, I suggest, logical vocabulary can make proprieties of practical inference explicit, just as the inferentialist says it can for theoretical inference.
Measurement of Ad Libitum Food Intake, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Time in Response to Overfeeding

Given the wide availability of highly palatable foods, overeating is common. Energy intake and metabolic responses to overfeeding may provide insights into weight gain prevention. We hypothesized a down-regulation in subsequent food intake and sedentary time, and up-regulation in non-exercise activity and core temperature in response to overfeeding in order to maintain body weight constant. In a monitored inpatient clinical research unit using a cross over study design, we investigated ad libitum energy intake (EI, using automated vending machines), core body temperature, and physical activity (using accelerometry) following a short term (3-day) weight maintaining (WM) vs overfeeding (OF) diet in healthy volunteers (n = 21, BMI, mean ± SD, 33.2±8.6 kg/m2, 73.6% male). During the ad libitum periods following the WM vs. OF diets, there was no significant difference in mean 3-d EI (4061±1084 vs. 3926±1284 kcal/day, p = 0.41), and there were also no differences either in core body temperature (37.0±0.2°C vs. 37.1±0.2°C, p = 0.75) or sedentary time (70.9±12.9 vs. 72.0±7.4%, p = 0.88). However, during OF (but not WM), sedentary time was positively associated with weight gain (r = 0.49, p = 0.05, adjusted for age, sex, and initial weight). In conclusion, short term overfeeding did not result in a decrease in subsequent ad libitum food intake or overall change in sedentary time although in secondary analysis sedentary time was associated with weight gain during OF. Beyond possible changes in sedentary time, there is minimal attempt to restore energy balance during or following short term overfeeding. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov {"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT00342732","term_id":"NCT00342732"}}NCT00342732
EBI2 mediates B cell segregation between the outer and centre follicle.

The correct positioning of B cells within lymphoid follicles is critical for mounting antibody responses, and positioning of activated B cells in interfollicular regions and in the outer follicle is also thought to be important for supporting normal interactions between T cells and B cells and normal B-cell proliferation. The molecular cues controlling these positioning events have been unknown. Pereira et al. now establish that EBI2, an orphan G-protein-coupled receptor upregulated by Epstein–Barr virus infection, promotes B-cell positioning in the outer follicle. By down-regulating EBI2, germinal centre B cells are able to move to the follicle centre. Mice lacking or mis-expressing this receptor are shown to mount defective antibody responses. B cells migrate to the outer or centre lymphoid follicle at different stages of antibody responses. Here it is shown that activated B cells must downregulate the orphan G protein-coupled receptor EBI2 to migrate to the centre follicles, where they mount T dependent antibody responses and establish germinal centres. B cell follicles are specialized microenvironments that support events necessary for humoral immunity1,2,3. After antigen encounter, activated B cells initially seek T-cell help at the follicle–T-zone boundary and then move to interfollicular and T-zone distal (outer) regions of the follicle4,5,6,7,8,9,10. Subsequently, some cells move to the follicle centre, become germinal centre B cells and undergo antibody affinity maturation1,2,11. Although germinal centres within follicles were described in 1885 (ref. 12), the molecular cues mediating segregation of B cells between the outer and centre follicle have remained undefined. Here we present a role for the orphan G-protein-coupled receptor, Epstein-Barr virus induced molecule-2 (EBI2, also known as GPR183)13, in this process. EBI2 is expressed in mature B cells and increases in expression early after activation, before being downregulated in germinal centre B cells. EBI2 deficiency in mice led to a reduction in the early antibody response to a T-dependent antigen. EBI2-deficient B cells failed to move to the outer follicle at day 2 of activation, and instead were found in the follicle centre, whereas EBI2 overexpression was sufficient to promote B cell localization to the outer follicle. In mixed bone marrow chimaeras, EBI2-deficient B cells phenocopied germinal centre B cells in preferentially localizing to the follicle centre. When downregulation of EBI2 in wild-type B cells was antagonized, participation in the germinal centre reaction was impaired. These studies identify an important role for EBI2 in promoting B cell localization in the outer follicle, and show that differential expression of this receptor helps position B cells appropriately for mounting T-dependent antibody responses.
Commodification and the selling of ethnic music to tourists

Abstract The commodification of culture has received much attention in social and cultural geography. Based on empirical research in Lijiang, a World Heritage site in China, this paper contributes to an understanding of commodification through a focus on selling ethnic music to tourists. Drawing upon a theoretical framework of tourism commodification and the cultural politics of music, I argue that the commodification of music is embedded in a temporal process in which culture, economy, and politics synthesize to shape place making and identity building. This paper presents three major findings: (1) commodification sustains discourses of identity building and cultural revival that in turn serve to justify the pursuit of profit; (2) commodification is variegated over time and across space; and (3) commodification provides the conditions for local musicians to increase their capacity to produce local narratives of music. By demonstrating the commodification of ethnic music and the cultural politics of musical space in Lijiang, this paper calls for an interconnection of economy, culture, and politics in understanding the materiality of music.
Prevalence and Predictors of Change in Adult-Child Primary Caregivers.

Family caregiving research is increasingly contextual and dynamic, but few studies have examined prevalence and predictors of change in primary caregivers, those with the most frequent contact with healthcare professionals. We identified prevalence and predictors of 2-year change in primary adult-child caregivers. Data pooled from the 1992-2000 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) represent 1,068 parent-level care occasions and 3,616 child-level occasions. There is considerable 2-year stability in primary adult-child caregivers. Parents are more prone to experience a change in adult-child primary caregivers if they live by themselves and if they have more sons and daughters. As far as the adult children are concerned, daughters and children living closer to parents are more likely to remain primary caregivers. Results suggest that change in primary caregivers is more strongly associated with available alternatives and gender norms than burden and competing obligations.
Early changes in protein synthesis following spinal cord hemisection in the Cebus monkey (Cebus apella).

Abstract The short term effects of spinal cord hemisection on protein synthesis in the Cebus monkey were studied by measuring the uptake of [ 3 H]lysine into the trichloroacetic acid (TCA) precipitable and non-precipitable fractions of spinal cord. Animals were sacrified 3, 6, or 13 days after hemisection. Two normal animals and a 3 day sham operate were utilized as controls. All data were pooled and subjected to analysis of variance. Significant group differences were resolved by a standardt-test over pooled operative group samples and a pairedt-test for left-right differences within groups. Compared to normal animals, significant increases in the mean uptake of precursor into TCA precipitable and non-precipitable fractions of spinal cord samples were noted in all postoperative groups. The observed increase in the uptake of [ 3 H]lysine into TCA soluble and insoluble fractions at 3 days after hemisection were attributed to stress, as were increases in the activity of the TCA insoluble fractions in the sham operate. By 6 days, the increases attributed to stress in the average protein activity seemed to subside, resulting in an overall decrease in the TCA precipitable protein activity with an increase in TCA soluble fraction activity. Between 6 and 13 days the activity of the TCA soluble and insoluble fractions returned to the 3 day levels with a sharp increase in the activity of both fractions in the area of the hemisection. This increase was attributed to increases in neuronal, neuroglial, and infiltrating cell metabolism possibly associated with regenerative changes.
Processing Of One-Fiber Interferometric Fiber-Optic Sensor Signals

Recent research conducted in the Fiber-Optic Sensor Systems Laboratory at Florida Institute of Technology in fiber-optic strain sensors for use in smart structures has concentrated primarily on one-fiber interferometers. Sensors using this technique are of particular interest because they are rugged and provide reasonable strain sensitivities, typically a thousand times that of microbend sensors, while requiring only a single optical fiber. As in two-fiber interferometers, some method must be used to convert the sensor signal output to an absolute strain value. One technique is to provide active phase tracking to keep the sensor signal output at phase quadrature for maximum sensitivity and to eliminate fringe count uncertainty. This paper contains a description of a technique for active phase tracking in polarimetric sensors composed of high- and low-birefringence fiber using an electro-optic polarization modulator. On-going development of artificial neural processors for processing fiber-optic sensor signals from both polarimetric and few mode sensors, as well as generating control signals for actuators in smart structures, is also discussed.
Environmental boundaries as an error correction mechanism for grid cells.

Summary Medial entorhinal grid cells fire in periodic, hexagonally patterned locations and are proposed to support path-integration-based navigation. The recursive nature of path integration results in accumulating error and, without a corrective mechanism, a breakdown in the calculation of location. The observed long-term stability of grid patterns necessitates that the system either performs highly precise internal path integration or implements an external landmark-based error correction mechanism. To distinguish these possibilities, we examined grid cells in behaving rodents as they made long trajectories across an open arena. We found that error accumulates relative to time and distance traveled since the animal last encountered a boundary. This error reflects coherent drift in the grid pattern. Further, interactions with boundaries yield direction-dependent error correction, suggesting that border cells serve as a neural substrate for error correction. These observations, combined with simulations of an attractor network grid cell model, demonstrate that landmarks are crucial to grid stability.
Growth mechanism and morphology control of double-layer and bamboo-type TiO2 nanotube arrays by anodic oxidation

Abstract We have synthesized multilayer and bamboo-type TiO2 nanotube arrays via alternating-voltage anodization steps in hydrous ethylene glycol (EG) containing NH4F and investigated their growth mechanisms using experimental and theoretical approaches. Current transients are recorded to study real-time morphological evolution of anodic TiO2 films during anodization at high and low voltages (Vhigh, Vlow). Current changes after each voltage ramp to Vhigh are observed along with sequential origination of pits, pores and tubes in a compact barrier layer at the base of oxide film. Two anodization steps at Vhigh separated by one step at Vlow with equal holding time yield double-layer smooth-walled TiO2 nanotubes. However, repetition of this sequence does not produce nanotubes of more layers, but makes lower-layer nanotubes longer and induces ridges on their walls to form bamboo-type tubes. Formation mechanisms of double-layer TiO2 consisting of smooth-walled or bamboo-type nanotubes are explored. A proper holding time of low-voltage anodization is required for ridge formation, but ridge spacing is determined by high-voltage anodization time. The ridge spacing increases linearly with the high-voltage anodization time, and can be theoretically calculated for lower-layer bamboo-type nanotubes formed in EG electrolytes with 5 vol% H2O. Less water (2 vol%) in electrolyte results in larger ridge spacing, while more water (10–15 vol%) not only reduces the ridge spacing, but also causes instability during growth of multilayer TiO2 nanotube arrays and eventually leads to formation of a disordered porous TiO2 structure.
Reform, corruption, and growth: Why corruption is more devastating in Russia than in China

Abstract This article explains why massive political corruption appears to be incompatible with economic growth in Russia but compatible with very rapid economic growth in China. The common assumption is that corruption is bad for economic performance. So how can we explain the puzzling contrast between Russia and China? Is Russia being more severely “punished” for its corruption than China? If so, why? This article demonstrates that three intervening factors—comparative advantage, the organization of corruption, and the nature of rents—determines the impact of corruption on economic performance, and that these factors can explain the divergent outcomes. The article thereby offers an alternative to statist explanations of the Russia-China paradox.