cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compaction and Segregation of Sister Chromatids by Loop-Extruding Enzymes

During cell division, two copies of each chromosome are segregated from each other and compacted more than hundred-fold into the canonical X-shaped structures. According to earlier microscopic observations and the recent Hi-C study, mitotic chromosomes are compacted into arrays of consecutive loops of ∼100 kb. Mechanisms leading to formation of such loop arrays are largely unknown. It has been proposed that SMC complexes involved in chromosome condensation can extrude chromatin loops, leading to formation of arrays of consecutive loops. Here, we use computer simulations to test whether the proposed loop-extruding activity of SMCs could compact and segregate sister chromatids. First, we model the system of loop-extruding SMCs on a chromatin fiber and show that it self-organizes into an array of consecutive dynamic loops. The structure of this array depends on microscopic properties of loop-extruding SMCs and can be predicted with a simple analytical model. Second, we model the process of loop extrusion in 3D and show that, coupled with the topo II strand-passing activity, it leads to robust compaction and segregation of sister chromatids. We show that loop-extruding proteins transform individual chromatids into bottle-brush structures consistent with the microscopic observations and Hi-C-based models. These bottle-brush chromatids repel each other allowing topo II to disentangle them. This mechanism of chromosomal condensation and segregation does not require additional proteins or specific DNA markup and is robust against variations in SMC number and properties.
Versatile Synthesis of Polymer-Temozolomide Conjugates

A new and versatile synthesis was developed to produce polymer prodrugs composed of poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (polyMPC) conjugated covalently to the glioblastoma drug Temozolomide (TMZ). Through a controlled free radical copolymerization of a TMZ-substituted methacrylate and MPC, water-soluble polyMPC-TMZ conjugates were realized with TMZ loadings of >50 mol %. After polymerization, the structural fidelity of the pendent TMZ moieties was confirmed by NMR and UV–vis spectroscopy, while molecular weight estimation by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) confirmed the desired control over the polymerization, with isolated polymer-TMZ conjugates exhibiting narrow molecular weight distributions. This synthetic design opens new possibilities for formulating numerous types of polymeric TMZ-based structures that are of interest for treating glioblastoma.
Information Technology Adoption by Midwest United States Travelers

The travel and tourism industry is information intensive (Poon, 1993). Tourists need, and therefore demand, information about destinations in order to select vacation places, to plan trips, and to facilitate choices about services and activities throughout the vacation experience. The nature and effectiveness of the various channels travelers use to obtain information have changed dramatically over the past few years. Destination marketing organizations (DMO’s) have in large part relied on traditional methods (i.e., television, newspaper, and magazine advertisements) to provide travel information. These methods are giving way to new communication vehicles such as the Internet (e.g., Prodigy and America On-line), the Home Buying and Travel Channels, as well as point-of-purchase televideo, kiosks and interactive computers. These forms of technology create opportunities for information exchange where the traveler can interact with the information provider as well as the supplier. Frequently, the individual who controls information (or access to information) can be expected to benefit (both in experience and financially) more than those who have no control (Poon, 1993).
Preoperative Staphylococcus Aureus Screening and Targeted Decolonization in Cardiac Surgery

Background We assessed the impact of preoperative Staphylococcus aureus screening and targeted decolonization on the incidence of postoperative methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) colonization, intensive care unit MRSA transmission, and surgical site infections in cardiac surgery patients. Methods We reviewed medical records for all adult patients during two periods: preintervention (January 2007 to April 2010) and intervention (January 2011 to December 2014). In the intervention period, we performed nasal screening for methicillin-sensitive S aureus and MRSA using polymerase chain reaction within 30 days of the operation. Colonized patients received intranasal mupirocin twice daily and chlorhexidine baths daily for 5 days; patients colonized with MRSA also received prophylactic vancomycin plus cefazolin with contact isolation precautions. Nasal surveillance for MRSA was performed on intensive care unit admission and weekly thereafter. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to determine risk factors for postoperative MRSA colonization, and surgical site infections and the impact of our screening program was assessed in these models. Poisson regression was used to assess MRSA transmission. Results Comparing 2,826 preintervention and 4,038 intervention patients, cases differed in age, diabetes mellitus, preoperative infection, preoperative length of stay, and bypass time (all p ≤ 0.03). Intervention patients had risk-adjusted reductions in MRSA colonization (odds ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37 to 0.76, p Conclusions Preoperative S aureus screening with targeted decolonization was associated with reduced MRSA colonization, transmission, and surgical site infections. Duration of preoperative therapy correlated with decreased frequency of postoperative MRSA colonization.
Presentation, clinical features, and results of intervention in upper extremity fibromuscular dysplasia

Abstract Background We present a case series of upper extremity fibromuscular dysplasia (UE FMD) consisting of 22 patients from two tertiary referral centers focusing on clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and interventional outcomes. FMD is a noninflammatory, nonatherosclerotic arteriopathy that has a predisposition for middle-aged women. Involvement of the UE is thought to be rare. Patients with UE FMD can present with claudication or ischemia, or they can be incidentally diagnosed. The treatment approach is dictated by clinical presentation. Methods Data were collected of patients with UE FMD evaluated at two centers. Demographic data, presenting UE symptoms, UE arteries involved, FMD type, diagnostic method, physical examination findings, management, and outcomes were included. Results Twenty-two patients (29 limbs) were diagnosed with UE FMD. The brachial artery was most commonly involved (89.7% of affected limbs). More than half of limbs (n = 15 of 29 limbs [51.7%]) were asymptomatic, and of those who presented with symptoms, the most common symptoms were ischemic fingers or hand (31% of all affected limbs) and hand or arm claudication (27.6% of all affected limbs). UE FMD was noted on catheter angiography in 58.6% (n = 17 of 29 limbs), duplex ultrasound in 41.4% (n = 12 of 29 limbs), and computed tomography angiography in 27.6% (n = 8 of 29 limbs). Of the symptomatic limbs (n = 14), the majority were treated solely with medical therapy as the first intervention (57.1%). For symptomatic limbs treated with vascular intervention (n = 5), angioplasty was most commonly performed. Only 4 of the 14 limbs (28.6%) had complete symptomatic relief after the initial first intervention, in which 2 limbs were treated with medical therapy, 1 limb underwent angioplasty, and 1 limb had resolution of symptoms despite deferment of any therapy. Of the 10 limbs with residual symptoms after the first intervention, 6 limbs underwent a second intervention: angioplasty in 2 limbs initially treated medically (33.3%), surgical bypass in 2 limbs initially treated with angioplasty, surgical bypass in 1 limb initially treated with medical therapy, and sympathectomy in 1 limb (16.7%) initially treated with angioplasty. Both surgical bypass and angioplasty as secondary interventions resulted in complete symptom relief. Conclusions Presenting symptoms for patients with UE FMD vary in severity from asymptomatic disease to digital ischemia. More than half of symptomatic limbs eventually require at least one invasive intervention for complete relief of symptoms.
Red cell-mediated microinjection of macromolecules into mammalian cells.

Publisher Summary Red cell microinjection permits the rapid transfer of macromolecules into large numbers of mammalian cells. Routinely, l0 7 culture cells can be microinjected in several hours. A wide range of macromolecules can be transferred subject only to the limitations of red cell loading. Individual culture cells have been microinjected with l0 6 bovine serum albumin (BSA) molecules. For comparison, many chromosomal proteins are represented at l0 3 to l0 5 copies per cell and the cytoplasmic enzyme hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) is found at 2 × l0 5 copies per L cell (Hughes and others, 1975). A similar comparison can be made for transfer RNA (tRNA) and other small nucleic acids. For example, it should be possible to microinject individual culture cells with 5 × l0 7 to 10 8 tRNA molecules. This level is similar to that found in various eukaryotic cell lines. Thus it is clear that physiologically significant amounts of proteins and nucleic acids can be transferred. This ensures that the technique of red cell-mediated microinjection can be used to elucidate the roles played by various macromolecules in mammalian cells.
Use of Bakri balloon tamponade (BBT) for conservative management of postpartum haemorrhage: a tertiary referral centre case series.

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the Bakri balloon in the management of PPH. This was a retrospective review of 49 patients, who had Bakri balloon inserted for PPH in KK Hos...
Folding helical triangle tessellations into light art

ABSTRACTThis article concerns the artistic and perceptual quality of translucent light transmitted by an origami-inspired paper surface when a light source is placed behind it. It describes my geom...
Environmental cosmopolitanism in a South Indian village

Much of anthropological literature on social impacts of globalization focuses on urban centers, with rural sites oft-represented as passive hinterlands. This article shifts analytical focus to a ru...
Comparison of Tm-doped fiber laser performance as diode pumped at 800 nm and 1620 nm

We compare the laser performance of a low Tm3+-doped silica fiber laser as pumped at 800 nm to one as pumped at 1620 nm. Using 800 nm non-resonant ( 3 H 6 → 3 H 4 ) pumping, 5.5 W of 1940 nm at 32% optical slope efficiency was demonstrated while 1620 nm resonant pumping ( 3 H 6 → 3 F 4 ) yielded 13 W with 55% slope efficiency from the same Tm-doped fiber. We also include experimental results our first demonstration of 1620 nm resonant pumping of a Tm-doped fiber with 15.5 W and 67% slope efficiency using an optimized fiber coupled source.
Nerve Growth Factor and Selected Cytokines in Women With and Without Vulvodynia.

Objective The aim of the study was to assess the association between cytokines/neurokines after in vitro stimulation with Candida antigen or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in blood samples among women with and without vulvodynia. Materials and methods Women with vulvodynia and asymptomatic controls at three offices at the University of Michigan were examined clinically and completed a comprehensive survey in this cross-sectional study. Cytokine/neurokine levels were determined on blood samples using established ELISA protocols. Analysis of 48 cases and 42 ethnically matched controls included descriptive statistics (median, minimal, and maximal levels of cytokines/neurokines), overall and in cases and controls. Because of left-censored measurements, interval censored survival analysis was used to assess the association between case/control status and pain characteristics with cytokine/neurokine levels. Results Participants ranged in age from 19 to 60 years. Levels of IL1β, IL1-RA, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-8 increased substantially after LPS stimulation, whereas no response was seen on IFNγ or nerve growth factor (NGF). Each increased after Candida antigen stimulation, although responses to Candida antigen stimulation of IL1β, IL-6, and TNFα were less robust than after LPS. Only NGF was significantly increased in vulvodynia cases compared with controls (Exp β (95% CI) = 2.08 [1.08-3.98]) after 24-hour Candida antigen stimulation and persisted when controlled for age, use of oral contraceptives, or history of Candida vulvovaginitis. No association between cytokine/neurokine levels and pain characteristics was found. Conclusions Compared with that of control women, whole blood from women with vulvodynia demonstrates an enhanced production of NGF, but not of a set of inflammation-related cytokines, in response to Candida antigen stimulation.
Mesostructure and porosity effects on the thermal conductivity of additively manufactured interpenetrating phase composites

Abstract We have investigated the relationship between structure and thermal conductivity in additively manufactured interpenetrating A356/316L composites. We used X-ray microcomputed tomography to characterize the pore structure in as-fabricated composites, finding microporosity in both constituents as well as a 50 μm thick layer of interfacial porosity separating the constituents. We measured the thermal conductivity of a 43 vol% 316L composite to be 53 Wm−1K−1, which is significantly less than that predicted by a simple rule-of-mixtures approximation, presumably because of the residual porosity. Motivated by these experimental results we used periodic homogenization theory to determine the combined effects of porosity and unit cell structure on the effective thermal conductivity. This analysis showed that in fully dense composites, the topology of the constituents has a weak effect on the thermal conductivity, whereas in composites with interfacial porosity, the size and structure of the unit cell strongly influence the thermal conductivity. We also found that an approximation formula of the strong contrast expansion method gives excellent estimates of the effective thermal conductivity of these composites, providing a powerful tool for designing functionally graded composites and for identifying mesostructures with optimal thermal conductivity values.
A defense of ad blocking and consumer inattention

Ad blockers are a category of computer software program, typically run as web browser extensions, that allow users to selectively eliminate advertisements from the webpages they visit. Many people have alleged that using an ad blocker is morally problematic because it is bad for content providers and consumers, and it is morally akin to theft. We disagree. In this paper, we defend an independent argument for the conclusion that using an ad blocker is morally permissible. In doing so, we respond to the criticisms that ad blocking is bad for content providers and consumers, that it is morally akin to theft, and that it violates a contract between consumers and web publishers.
Sensor networks for geospatial event detection --- theory and applications

This thesis presents theories, analyses, and algorithms for detecting and estimating parameters of geospatial events with today's large, noisy sensor networks. A geospatial event is initiated by a significant change in the state of points in a region in a 3-D space over an interval of time. After the event is initiated it may change the state of points over larger regions and longer periods of time. Networked sensing is a typical approach for geospatial event detection. In contrast to traditional sensor networks comprised of a small number of high quality (and expensive) sensors, trends in personal computing devices and consumer electronics have made it possible to build large, dense networks at a low cost. The changes in sensor capability, network composition, and system constraints call for new models and algorithms suited to the opportunities and challenges of the new generation of sensor networks. This thesis offers a single unifying model and a Bayesian framework for analyzing different types of geospatial events in such noisy sensor networks. It presents algorithms and theories for estimating the speed and accuracy of detecting geospatial events as a function of parameters from both the underlying geospatial system and the sensor network. Furthermore, the thesis addresses network scalability issues by presenting rigorous scalable algorithms for data aggregation for detection. These studies provide insights to the design of networked sensing systems for detecting geospatial events. In addition to providing an overarching framework, this thesis presents theories and experimental results for two very different geospatial problems: detecting earthquakes and hazardous radiation. The general framework is applied to these specific problems, and predictions based on the theories are validated against measurements of systems in the laboratory and in the field.
Imaging Modalities and Contrast Agents

This chapter discusses the spectrum of available imaging studies employed in routine diagnostic imaging. Many of the associated advantages, deficiencies, concepts, and applications covered here can guide referring clinicians in selection of the appropriate imaging modality across organ systems, i.e., neurologic, cardiothoracic, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, vascular, and musculoskeletal (MSK). Regardless of the organ system, the choice of the appropriate study depends on multiple factors, including the clinical question to be addressed, the availability and accuracy of the imaging modality, study contraindications, risks of the imaging examination including those from contrast agent administration, and financial cost. Some very brief data regarding the Medicare reimbursements for several commonly ordered imaging examinations is also provided at the end of the chapter (Table 1.1).
Building Fields from Euclidean Domains

In this chapter we will show that given a Euclidean domain D and a prime p ∈ D, it is possible to construct a field (which may or may not be finite), called “D mod p.”
Methodologic Approaches to Investigate Vascular Tube Morphogenesis and Maturation Events in 3D Extracellular Matrices In Vitro and In Vivo

De novo blood vessel formation is regulated by two major processes, termed vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. A key aspect of this formation is the process of endothelial cell (EC) lumen and tube assembly. Major advances have been made in our understanding of the EC lumen formation process primarily through the development and utilization of in vitro models of this process in 3D extracellular matrices. Recent advances include the identification of an EC lumen signaling complex that controls EC tubulogenesis in 3D collagen matrices and determination of growth factor requirements that are required for these events under serum-free defined conditions. Components of the lumen signaling complex include the collagen-binding integrin, α2β1, the membrane-type 1 matrix metalloproteinase, MT1-MMP, junction adhesion molecules B and C, Par3, Par6b and the Rho GTPase, Cdc42. This complex of proteins controls EC lumen and tube formation and establishes the signaling conditions necessary to both form and sustain an EC tube network in 3D matrices. This EC tube network induces the recruitment of pericytes which then affect tube and extracellular matrix remodeling events to regulation the maturation of tubes. Methodologies utilized to address these events are presented to illustrate how the cellular and molecular basis for EC tube morphogenesis and stabilization are currently investigated.
The Persistence of the Protocols

The fear of a secret Jewish conspiracy that dominates and manipulates the political economy began not long after the Emancipation from the ghettos, and was formalized over a century ago in the Tsarist forgery known as the Protocols of the Elders of Zion. That document itself has been shredded of credibility, but the animating idea of a Jewish cabal continues to show some life. The figure who inadvertently keeps that fantasy alive is the octogenarian financier George Soros (b. 1930), and the attacks upon his ideas and influence are inflected with the paranoid style that had given birth to the discredited Protocols.
The Collateral Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility: Evidence from Bank Loans

In this paper we extend and test the theoretical argument that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reduces risk and enhances returns. Specifically, we study the impact of CSR on bank loans. Using...
Tumor suppressor RARRES1- A novel regulator of fatty acid metabolism in epithelial cells

Retinoic acid receptor responder 1 (RARRES1) is silenced in many cancers and is differentially expressed in metabolism associated diseases, such as hepatic steatosis, hyperinsulinemia and obesity. Here we report a novel function of RARRES1 in metabolic reprogramming of epithelial cells. Using non-targeted LC-MS, we discovered that RARRES1 depletion in epithelial cells caused a global increase in lipid synthesis. RARRES1-depleted cells rewire glucose metabolism by switching from aerobic glycolysis to glucose-dependent de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Treatment with fatty acid synthase (FASN) inhibitor, C75, reversed the effects of RARRES1 depletion. The increased DNL in RARRES1-depleted normal breast and prostate epithelial cells proved advantageous to the cells during starvation, as the increase in fatty acid availability lead to more oxidized fatty acids (FAO), which were used for mitochondrial respiration. Expression of RARRES1 in several common solid tumors is also contextually correlated with expression of fatty acid metabolism genes and fatty acid-regulated transcription factors. Pathway enrichment analysis led us to determine that RARRES1 is regulated by peroxisome proliferating activated receptor (PPAR) signaling. These findings open up a new avenue for metabolic reprogramming and identify RARRES1 as a potential target for cancers and other diseases with impaired fatty acid metabolism.
Cultural Contributors to Ego-Resiliency and Associations with Depressive Problems in Midwestern Latino Youth.

Ego-resiliency is an enduring psychological construct reflecting how individuals-adapt to environmental stressors, conflict, and change which is linked to positive adjustment. Ego-resiliency has not been examined in Latino youth, despite their high risk for mental health problems; nor have cultural precursors to ego-resiliency been examined. Given these gaps, we examined whether familism values (supportive, obligation, and referent) were associated with ego-resiliency and, in turn, depressive problems in Latino adolescents across two time points (N = 123, mean age = 11.53). Results indicated that supportive familism was associated positively with ego-resiliency and negatively with depressive problems. Ego-resiliency negatively predicted depressive problems across time, controlling for prior levels, suggesting that ego-resiliency may have long-term effects on depressive problems in Latino youth.
Introduction: The Scope of the Problem with Diminished Ovarian Reserve

The observation throughout the recorded human history confirmed that the fecundability and the fecundity rates decline with advancing female age. It seems that fertility decline in females may start as early as the late 20s to early 30s. Female age is the most important factor for achieving live birth with assisted reproductive technologies. Many women also postpone pregnancy due to various factors as evidenced by the registry data that the age of first birth in women is increasing around the globe. Hence, many such women are attempting conception during their reproductive years when steep fertility decline is expected. This fertility decline with aging is commonly associated with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and diminished oocyte/embryo quality. Since the controlled ovarian stimulations became a norm in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, it has been realized that some women just do not respond well to ovarian stimulation. Therefore, poor ovarian response (POR) generalization has been proposed in order to unify such criteria for relevant studies. The Bologna criteria is based on response to maximum dose conventional stimulation, advanced reproductive age at or above 40, somewhat wide ranges of ovarian reserve markers, and prior history of POR. Recently, another POR criteria was proposed by POSEIDON group bringing somewhat more individualization, focusing on prognosis. Many such women are in fact suffering from DOR and show various prognoses.
Internet of Things for Sustainable Community Development: Introduction and Overview

The two-third of the city-dwelling world population by 2050 poses numerous global challenges in the infrastructure and natural resource management domains (e.g., water and food scarcity, increasing global temperatures, and energy issues). The IoT with integrated sensing and communication capabilities has the strong potential for the robust, sustainable, and informed resource management in the urban and rural communities. In this chapter, the vital concepts of sustainable community development are discussed. The IoT and sustainability interactions are explained with emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and communication technologies. Moreover, IoT opportunities and challenges are discussed in the context of sustainable community development.
Diabetes and cardiovascular disease mortality among a population-based cohort of women with and without breast cancer.

We investigated whether the relationship between diabetes and all-cause and CVD-related mortality differed between women with and without breast cancer among a cohort drawn from the same source population. We interviewed 1,363 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996–1997, and 1,358 age-matched women without breast cancer, to assess history of physician-diagnosed diabetes. All-cause (n = 631) and CVD-specific mortality (n = 234) was determined by the National Death Index through 2009. We estimated multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for the rates of all-cause and CVD-specific mortality and, to account for competing causes of death, and subdistribution HRs (sHRs) for risk of CVD-related death. Among women with and without breast cancer, respectively, diabetes was associated with: all-cause mortality [HR (95% CI) 1.52 (1.13, 2.05) and 2.17 (1.46, 3.22)]; CVD-specific deaths [1.74 (1.06, 2.84) and 2.06 (1.11, 3.84)]; and risk of CVD-related death [sHR 1.36 (0.81, 2.27) and 1.79 (0.94, 3.40)]. Differences in effect estimates between women with and without breast cancer did not reach statistical significance (p-interaction > 0.10). We found that the positive association between a history of physician-diagnosed diabetes and risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality is of similar magnitude among a population-based cohort of women with or without breast cancer.
Stalling and Dissipation of a Near Inertial Wave (NIW) in an Anticyclonic Ocean Eddy: Direct Determination of Group Velocity and Comparison With Theory

A near-inertial wave stalling and breaking in a critical layer was observed for a week by a pair of autonomous velocity and density profilers on concentric paths in an ocean eddy. Profiler observat...
Collagen XXIII- a biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma

2157 Purpose: Collagen XXIII is a transmembrane collagen previously shown to be upregulated in metastatic prostate cancer (JBC 39: 37590, 2003). The purpose of this study is to determine whether collagen XXIII expression can be used as a marker for lung adenocarcinoma aggressiveness. Background: Lung cancer accounts for over twenty-five percent of cancer-related deaths annually, with about fifty percent of patients presenting with lung adenocarcinoma. Despite previous assumptions that lung cancer is a smoker’s disease, twenty-five percent of all lung cancer patients and fifty-three percent of female lung cancer patients are never smokers, necessitating identification of new tools for early detection and staging of this disease. CT scan analysis and pathological staging are current standards for identifying patients with advanced staged tumors, the latter requiring tissue samples taken during surgery or bronchoscopy. As lung cancer detection and treatment improves, there is a need for non-invasive monitoring of tumor progression and response to treatment. Methods: Collagen XXIII expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays (TMAs) constructed from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded archival tissue specimens of representative tumor and matched normal control lung tissues from ninety patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, urine samples from lung cancer patients were analyzed for the presence of collagen XXIII via western blot. Results: Intense collagen XXIII staining was observed in over sixty-five percent of patients with stage III or IV lung adenocarcinoma, in less than thirty-five percent of patients with stage I or II lung adenocarcinoma, and was absent in the uninvolved lung parenchyma. In this study, high levels of collagen XXIII correlated with advanced pathological stage and increased tumor size in lung adenocarcinoma patients, which are characteristics of aggressive tumors. In addition, collagen XXIII was present in urine samples from a subset of lung adenocarcinoma patients, and absent in samples from patients without cancer. Interestingly, collagen XXIII is highly expressed in bronchial epithelial cells and squamous cell carcinoma tissue, but was not detected in urine samples from these patients. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that collagen XXIII is highly expressed in advanced lung adenocarcinoma, but absent in the uninvolved lung parenchyma. This data suggests that collagen XXIII is a potential marker for lung adenocarcinoma aggressiveness.
The Thinning of Social Ties: Electoral Consequences of Indebtedness under Austerity

What are the political consequences of rising household debt in the context of fiscal austerity? As governments scale back the welfare state, many voters address ensuing financial shortfalls by borrowing money. I argue that debt individualizes and undermines turnout and support for incumbents by triggering feelings of political neglect, breeding anger and resentment, and weakening social ties that are necessary for political engagement. I examine this argument by leveraging spatial and temporal variation in the rollout of Universal Credit, a large-scale welfare reform in the United Kingdom. Using fine-grained administrative data on unsecured debt, I demonstrate that fiscal austerity generated an increase in indebtedness and lowered voter turnout and support for the Conservatives. I then use individual-level survey data to explore the mechanisms that link debt and political behavior. The results suggest that rising indebtedness de-mobilizes voters, which reduces the political costs of welfare retrenchment but creates new political cleavages.
Violence Risk Assessment in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the risk for violence is not well understood, despite sensationalistic news reports. Situations do arise, however, in which someone with ASD seems to pose a risk for committing a violent act. And there are aspects of ASD which may present unique risk factors or alter conventional risk factors. As a result, there is a need for ASD-specific assessments of violence risk. In this chapter, we outline themes from the limited research on this area, and describe factors which need to be considered in assessment of violence risk of people with ASD.
A Closer Look at “Taller-Than-Wide” Thyroid Nodules: Examining Dimension Ratio to Predict Malignancy:

ObjectiveTo evaluate nodule height-to-width ratio as a continuous variable predicting likelihood of thyroid malignancy.Study DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingAll study information was collec...
Whole body cooling for treatment of and antecedents of neonatal encephalopathy: The Children's National Medical Center's experience May 2006–August 2009, –95 infants

Therapeutic hypothermia has prevented death and brain injury after asphyxiation in 5 randomized trials. Objective: Demonstrate our therapeutic hypothermia program, and compare our results with these randomized trials. Design/Methods: Whole body cooling was performed in 95 infants gestation 36 wks and < 6 hrs of age with severe acido- sis, perinatal complications, and/or CPR at birth. Infants were cooled to an esophageal temperature of 33.5 ◦ C for 72 hours, then re-warmed slowly. Results of clinical studies, adverse events, and hospital outcomes are reported. Results: 95 neonates (mean weight 3.43 ± 0.68 SD kg, gestation 39 ± 2 wks) were admitted at ages 4:31 ± 1:10 hrs. Umbilical cord pH ranged 6.43-7.36 (median 6.87). Perinatal sentinel events occurred in 51 subjects. 33/95 infants (35%) presented with clinical seizures; 74/95 infants (78%) are surviving; most are now seizure-free having had improvement of EEG during hypothermia; 19/95 (20%) had normal brain MRI, 52 (55%) had ischemic injuries. 63/74 survivors (85%) are home; 44/74 (60%) are fed orally and passed hearing screens. 30/74 (40%) require tube feedings, and/or have uncertain hearing. 11/74 (15%) were discharged to rehabilitation hospitals. 21 deaths occurred (21/95, 22%): 2 died suddenly on life support while cooling, with no response to CPR. 83% of survivors have been seen in followup; 53% have been seen at ≥9 months. Fifty percent of all followups seen have had normal neurodevelopmental exams. Conclusions: Hypothermia can be instituted safely with mortality and short term morbidity commensurate with 5 previous studies published or otherwise reported. Neurodevelopmental follow up continues.
Solute transport across an interface: a Fickian theory for skewness in breakthrough curves.

[1] This paper provides a mathematical treatment of solute transport when the mean velocity is perpendicular to a sharp interface. For this case, the resident and flux-averaged concentrations can be derived from Fickian laws of convection-dispersion. In a recently reported approach to (deterministic) Fickian convection-dispersion equations it was shown that the concentration field describing solute transport parallel to a sharp interface could be equivalently expressed in terms of the distribution of a particular skew Brownian motion. The present paper is an extension of this theory to the case of Fickian convection-dispersion for solute transport in the direction of flow orthogonal to a sharp interface. Just as in the case of parallel interface, this is significant in that it leads to an explicit formula for the concentration field as well as providing some guidance to the further development of particle tracking methods for representing solute transport in discontinuous media. As an application of this theory we obtain specific results to explain the interesting types of symmetries and asymmetries in the breakthrough curves of a conservative tracer across an sharp interface recently reported by Berkowitz et al. (2009).
Leprosy Agents Mycobacterium lepromatosis and Mycobacterium leprae in Mexico: a Clarification

Mycobacterium lepromatosis is a newly recognized species ([1][1]) and is the long-elusive second cause of leprosy ([1][1][–][2][5][3]) in addition to the well-known Mycobacterium leprae. This realization led us to test the etiologic agent(s) of 120 Mexican leprosy cases using DNA extract from
Which is the Greatest

This paper deals with the medieval theological debate on the primacy of knowledge, love, or enjoyment of God by comparing the biography of the Premonstratensian nun Christina of Hane with the German mystical writings of the Dominican preacher and scholar Meister Eckhart. It shows the ways in which female vernacular thought engaged with a primarily scholastic and male-dominated debate and suggests a performative understanding of the female mystical account. Challenging existing presumptions about Christina’s mystical biography as being inconsistent and composed by several authors, the results of this research demonstrate to what extent the text can still be considered cohesive when discarding gender specified authorial conceptions which cannot be determined in this case.
Observations on Leukemia in Wistar and Wistar Furth Rats

1. Six-hundred and seventy-three Wistar and W/Fu rats were treated at the age of 4 months with whole body x-ray, orally administered 3MCA or a combination of these agents. All animals were followed until death and 87 per cent were autopsied. 2. Among 303 autopsied animals there were 403 benign and malignant tumors, including 28 leukemias. 3. Differences were noted in the incidence and types of leukemia occurring in both breeds of rats. In Wistars 9 of 11 leukemias were myelogenous and 8 of these followed x-ray exposure. 4. Approximately a 10 per cent incidence of spontaneously occurring mononuclear cell leukemia was found in W/Fu rats; exposure to x-ray apparently decreased the occurrence of leukemia in these rodents. Following oral administration of 3MCA, 13 per cent of W/Fu rats developed acute mononuclear cell leukemia. 5. Results of hematologic, cytologic and histochemical studies on rat leukemia are discussed in this article, and the possible significance of the appearance and disappearance of the distinctive mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood is pointed out. 6. Pathologic findings indicate that the majority of deaths, other than those due to leukemia, were due to pulmonary infections and a great variety of tumors. In leukemic animals enlargement of the spleen was almost universally present and adenopathy, especially involving mediastinal and retroperitoneal glands, was frequently noted. Among 9 myelogenous leukemias in Wistar rats green chloromatous tissues were found in 5 animals. 7. Cytogenetic studies were carried out on direct preparations from the bone marrow in most of the leukemic rats in this series. Aneuploidy was noted in several animals and one W/Fu rat demonstrated a morphologically abnormal "marker" chromosome. In more recent studies improved technics and use of the spleen as a source of metaphase preparations have afforded better opportunities to obtain adequate chromosome preparations in leukemic rats. Further investigations are in progress and special studies are being directed to the viral and cytogenetic aspects of leukemia in the rat.
Multistatic matched-illumination waveform design for detection and identification of indoor targets behind walls

We present the matched illumination waveform design for improved target detection and identity discrimination in through-the-wall radar imaging and sensing applications. We consider a multistatic radar system for detection and identification of stationary targets with known impulse responses behind walls. The stationary and slowly moving nature of typical indoor targets relaxes the orthogonality requirement on the waveforms, thereby allowing sequential transmissions from each transmitter with simultaneous reception at multiple receivers. Numerical electromagnetic modeling is used to provide the impulse responses of a human and a wooden table for different target orientations and at various incident and reflection angles. Simulation results, depicting an improvement in performance of the multistatic radar as compared to monostatic operation, are provided.
Lawson's Shoehorn, or Should the Philosophy of Science Be Rated 'X'?.

Lawson's (2002) interpretations of Galileo's discovery of the moons of Jupiter and other cases exhibit several historical errors, addressed here both specifically and generally. They illustrate how philosophical preconceptions can distort history and thus lessons about the nature of science.
Topical Review: Childhood Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Therapy:

A rapidly progressive, generally symmetric, ascending flaccid paraparesis or quadriparesis that develops in an infant or child constitutes an uncommon but important pediatric neurologic emergency that requires immediate evaluation and treatment. The differential diagnosis primarily includes acute neuropathies, most commonly the childhood Guillain-Barre syndrome and, rarely, acute transverse myelitis or infantile poliomyelitis. A clinical distinction may be difficult in the younger child in whom detailed sensory examination is not possible. Although most children with Guillain-Barre syndrome usually have a benign and relatively limited clinical illness, some become severely ill, requiring intubation and careful intensive monitoring. To date, no well-controlled multi-institutional studies of treatment with either plasmapheresis or intravenously administered immunoglobulin have been developed in children despite the success of these modalities in adults. A review of the data available using these therapies is included in this study.
Long‐Distance Coarticulation in Spoken and Signed Language: An Overview

This study explores the phenomenon of coarticulation in spoken and signed language, focusing in particular on long-distance effects, defined here as the articulatory influence of one phonetic element on another across at least one intervening segment. While a great deal of variability has been found among language users in the production and perception of such effects, the fact that long-distance coarticulation occurs at all has important theoretical implications. Recent work on sign language, together with relevant spoken-language results, offers new insights and raises interesting questions concerning the human language capacity in general.
Capturing Between- and Within-Family Differences in Parental Support to Adult Children: A Typology Approach

Objectives. F amilies differ widely in the support they provide to adult offspring, both with regard to the overall level as well as the extent to which support is evenly distributed across offspring. This study addressed these dynamics by creating family profiles based on the average level and differentiation of support among children. We also examined demographic and psychological factors that predict typology membership. Method. W e utilized data from 431 middle-aged parents (aged 40–60) with at least two adult children. Parents provided separate ratings of support given to each child. Latent profile analysis was applied to two indicators of within-family support: mean level and differentiation among offspring. Results. Latent profile analysis identified four pat terns of parental support: (a) high support– low differentiation (52%), (b) medium support–high differentiation (26%), (c) low support–low differentiation (17%), and (d) low support–very high differentiation (5%). These patterns reflected distinct family characteristics, such as parental resources, parental beliefs (i.e., equal treatment, obligation), and offspring characteristics. Discussion. Our findings emphasiz e the need to capture dynamics of support exchanges among multiple offspring at the level of family.
Antisense inhibition of AMEL translation demonstrates supramolecular controls for enamel HAP crystal growth during embryonic mouse molar development

During tooth development, enamel organ epithelial cells express a tissue-specific gene product (amelogenin) which presumably functions to control calcium hydroxyapatite crystal growth patterns during enamel biomineralization. The present studies were designed to test the hypothesis that amelogenin as a supramolecular aggregate regulates crystal growth during enamel biomineralization. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide strategy was used in a simple organ culture system to inhibit amelogenin translation. Under these experimental conditions, antisense treatment prior to and during amelogenin expression resulted in inhibition of amelogenin translation products within immunoprecipitated [35S]methionine metabolically labeled proteins. To determine the efficiency of antisense treatment in this model system, digoxigenin-labeled oligodeoxynucleotides were observed to diffuse throughout the tooth explants including the target ameloblast cells within 24 hours. Ultrastructural analyses of amelogenin supramolecular assembly as electron-dense stippled materials in antisense treated cultures demonstrated dysmorphology of the extracellular enamel matrix with a significant reduction in crystal length and width. We conclude that secreted extracellular proteins form a supramolecular aggregate, which controls both the orientation and dimensions of enamel crystal formation during tooth development.
Beaver population fluctuations and tropospheric methane emissions in boreal wetlands

Measurements of net methane flux were made during the 1988 ice-free season (May–October) at a beaver-meadow complex in northern Minnesota, USA. The site included upland boreal forest, sedge meadow, submerged aquatic plants, and the open water of a beaver pond. Annual fluxes were 8–11 g C/m2 in the permanently wetted zones and 0.2–0.4 g C/m2 at the occasionally inundated meadow and forest sites. These data, when coupled with long-term (46 yr) data on beaver (Castor canadensis) population size and habitat alteration, suggest that about 1% of the recent rise in atmospheric methane may be attributable to pond creation by beaver in North America.
Sex differences in lingual marginal ridging on the human maxillary central incisor

Although incisor dimensions are on average larger in males, at least one incisor trait, lingual marginal ridging, is significantly more common in females. This is documented for the upper central incisor in a collation of 38 samples of living populations representing six racial groups. Caucasian, Asian, Polynesian, Melanesian, and American Indian females each possess significantly higher frequencies than their male counterparts. American Blacks do not show a sex difference. Sex differences in the duration and rate of incisor crown development do not explain this dimorphism. Possible underlying genetic causes are reviewed, and the hypothesis is proposed that relevant portions of both X chromosomes in females are contributing to greater trait expression.
Effects of cortisol and adrenalectomy on induction of interferon by endotoxin.

SummaryThe administration of 1 to 5 mg of cortisol to 1 kg rabbits markedly suppressed interferon production by E. coli endo-toxin. Single doses of cortisol, up to 25 mg, did not decrease circulating interferon levels following inoculations with Newcastle disease virus. This type of interferon was only partially suppressed with multiple injections of 250 mg. Thus, administered cortisol inhibited more readily the production of endotoxin-in-duced interferon than the virus-induced counterpart. Adrenalectomy markedly potentiated the production of interferon by endotoxin. Adrenalectomized rabbits inoculated with endotoxin produced serum interferon to a mean titer of 1:388, while the mean titer in control animals was 1:28, suggesting that endogenous steroids suppress the interferon esponse to endotoxin.Mrs. Linda Carcione offered excellent technical assistance. One of us (Miss Catherine DeAngelis) was a recipient of a summer research fellowship under NIH grant 5416-05.
Notch 1 signaling regulates peripheral T cell activation

Notch signaling has been identified as an important regulator of leukocyte differentiation and thymic maturation. Less is known about the role of Notch signaling in regulating mature T cells. We examined the role of Notch 1 in regulating peripheral T cell activity in vitro and in vivo. Coligation of Notch 1 together with TCR and CD28 resulted in a dramatic inhibition of T cell activation, proliferation, and cytokine production. This effect was dependent on presenilin activity and induced the expression of HES-1, suggestive of Notch 1 signaling. Biochemical analysis demonstrated an inhibition of AKT and GSK3beta phosphorylation following Notch 1 engagement while other biochemical signals such as TCR and ERK phosphorylation remained intact. Similar effects were observed in vivo in an adoptive transfer model. Therefore, Notch 1 signaling may play an important role in regulating naive T cell activation and homeostasis.